Chief Femi Fani-Kayode writes:

It was an honor and pleasure to receive one of my closest, dearest and most respected friends and brothers, the former Governor of Kaduna state and the former Minister of FCT, Mallam Nasir El Rufai, in my Abuja home this afternoon. 

We discussed crucial national issues and had a fruitful and productive meeting. 

Mallam is an irrepressible force in Nigerian politics and has been one of its primary movers and shakers for the last 23 years. 

He has done so much for our country and I have no doubt that he will still do so much more.

Thanks for coming brother.

Femi Fani-Kayode

rufai Visits Ffk

Allegedly, before his defection to SDP, he has been visiting all the agreived members of APC and major stakeholders in opposition parties to convince them to form an alliance by moving to SDP.
He was told he would only be taken serious if he makes the first move.
Now he has made the move but they still find it difficult to trust him 😂.
Some believe he's still the same old crafty and deadly Rufai,who cannot be trusted.
They believe he's working for Tinubu in disguise.
With the look of things it seems only him and his 2 lousy sons will move to SDP. 😂

NIGERIA NEEDS A CHANNEL ON DSTV WALAHI... 
New New content every week.

El Rufai Has Failed Again

> Former Kaduna State governor, Malam Nasir El-Rufai has expressed his readiness to woo former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi and Rotimi Amaechi to join the Social Democratic Party (SDP) to form a vibrant opposition to the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In an interview with the Hausa Service of the British Broadcasting Service (BBC) yesterday monitored by LEADERSHIP Sunday in Bauchi, El-Rufai said, 

“My biggest wish and prayer is to see Atiku, Obi, Amaechi, and Aregbesola join SDP, so that we can form a powerful coalition of opposition leaders not necessarily to merge into one political party.”

El-Rufai, one of the founding fathers of APC, dumped the party for SDP last week after falling out with President Bola Tinubu’s government.

He was one of the arrowheads that firmly stood for Tinubu to emerge as APC presidential candidate in the 2023 elections. But barely two years later, the former Kaduna State governor left Tinubu over his exclusion from the current cabinet.

He openly criticised Tinubu’s policies for inflicting hardship on Nigerians.

Atiku and Obi are heavyweight opposition leaders who separately contested and lost the 2023 presidential election under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Labour Party (LP) respectively to Tinubu.

El-Rufai said, “SDP is a vibrant platform. Let us come together so we can challenge the APC.”
He said although Tinubu deceived him, he still did not regret supporting him to become the president in 2023.

He denied defecting to SDP to contest for the presidency in 2027 but conceded that if members of the party ask him to vie for the office, he might consider it.

“I don’t know. I’m not the one who will say I’m going to contest. It’s a party and members of that party will call you and tell you to contest for this or that position.

“Even when I contested for governor, the people from Kaduna went to former President Muhammadu Buhari and pleaded with him to ask me to contest and I didn’t even want to contest because I don’t know how to do it and I was afraid to,” El-Rufai said.

2027 Presidency: I Won’t Reject SDP's Ticket – El-rufai

Ex-Vice President Atiku Abubakar has expressed support for a Lagos-based National Youth Service Corps member, Ushie Uguamaye, also known as Raye, who claimed to have received threats after her viral video criticising President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

In a statement shared on X on Sunday, Atiku praised Raye’s courage, describing her as a symbol of a new generation of politically engaged women committed to advocacy and democratic participation.

“Raye embodies the spirit of a new generation of women who champion the ideals of popular participation and unwavering advocacy in the political sphere.

“I deeply admire her boldness and wisdom—her fearless resolve to speak truth to power, undeterred by the weight of opposition,” Atiku wrote.

The former presidential candidate likened Raye to historic female activists such as Gambo Sawaba, Funmilayo Ransom-Kuti, and Margaret Ekpo, who played pivotal roles in Nigeria’s political landscape.

Atiku called for support rather than hostility towards Raye.

“Rather than being met with hostility, Raye deserves encouragement and support. She is a shining emblem of the Nigerian youth—a testament to the long-held promise that the leaders of tomorrow are already among us, ready to shape a better future,” Atiku said.

Raye, a corps member serving in Lagos, recently made headlines after a video she posted criticising government policies went viral.

She later claimed to have faced threats, reportedly from NYSC officials, pressuring her to take down the video.

In the video posted on her TikTok account #talktoraye on Saturday, Raye voiced frustration over Nigeria’s deteriorating economic situation, lamenting that hard work no longer guarantees financial stability.

She criticised Tinubu’s leadership, calling him a “terrible leader,” and questioned the government’s commitment to easing citizens’ hardships.

Authorities have yet to comment on her allegations.

Atiku Backs Lagos Corper Facing Threats Over Viral Video

> Members of market associations and numerous women groups in Kaduna State have reiterated their loyalty and support for President Bola Tinubu and Governor Uba Sani's administration.

Over the weekend, the demonstrators trooped to the Kaduna metropolis in their hundreds to peacefully express their feelings about recent developments in the polity.

The protesters advised Kaduna residents not to be deceived into opposing the incumbent governments at the state and federal levels.

This follows El-Rufai's defection from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to the Social Democratic Party (SDP).

While announcing his exit from the APC, the former Governor claimed that his decision was influenced by misalignment of values with the ruling party.

Meanwhile, the protesters recounted their ordeals during the previous administration's eight years, alleging that hundreds of market shops belonging to individuals were either seized, demolished or confiscated.

They said the situation triggered ill health in many traders and business owners, leading to paralysis and multiple deaths of their colleagues.

"We’ve been in the market for over 40 years and have never experienced the kind of set backs we suffered under the previous Governor,” Daniel Audu Maigari, a stakeholder of the Kaduna Market associations, has said.

“A lot of lives were lost,a lot of finances were ruined by reason of his kind of policies. We are here to speak with one voice and say that anything that would kind of revive such kind of philosophy in Kaduna market, we don’t want it.”

Explaining further, Maigari said, “this incumbent Governor began by healing the wounds, the wounds that were really severed by the former Governor. Governor Uba Sani has been doing so,so very well and that’s why we’ve been with our leader, Alhaji Abdurrahman Mohammed, who like Governor Sani,has been charting the right course, ensuring programmes and plans that will heal these wounds.”

He added that there has never been a time when they have had the impact of leadership in the Kaduna market like they are now.

” Now we’ve lots of incentives, lots of policies that are driving us to progress .We are now standing with one voice to denounce anything that would reverse this,” he stated.

The protesters later marched to the streets, hoisting placards with various inscriptions denouncing the previous arrangements and chanting slogans supporting Tinubu, Sani and the APC.

Kaduna Market Associations, Women, Slam El-rufai, Rally For Tinubu, Gov Sani

Governor Ododo Wins ‘Governor of the Year’ Award, in Agriculture

Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has been honored with the Governor of the Year Award '2024' Agriculture by Independent Newspapers Limited, publishers of Daily Independent Newspaper in recognition of his administration’s strides in agricultural and food security. 

The award was presented at the ceremony in Abuja and received on behalf of the Governor by the Honourable Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Fanwo. 

This marks Governor Ododo’s third major award by media organizations this year alone underscoring his commitment to food security, sustainable agricultural practices, women and youth inclusion in governance in Kogi State.

The award by the management of Daily Independent Newspapers reaffirms Governor Ododo’s policies aimed at empowering farmers through provision of mechanized farming, encouraging youth and women’s participation in agriculture and improving the agricultural value chain in the state. 

Interventions by Governor Ododo in agriculture and food security have not only boosted food production in the state but has also positioned Kogi as a key contributor to Nigeria’s agricultural sector revolution under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

It will be recalled that Governor Ododo had earlier received the Political Personality of the Year Award by the Sun Newspaper and the Daily Asset Newspaper’s Governor of the Year and the Youth-Friendly Governor Award by the National Association of Kogi State Students (NAKOSS), for his contributions to youth empowerment. 

Governor Ododo’s initiatives align with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, reinforcing Kogi’s role in strengthening national food security and all-inclusive approach to development. 

Ismaila Isah

Special Adviser on Media to the Governor
16th March, 2025

Governor Ododo Wins ‘Governor Of The Year’ Award, In Agriculture

FULANI’S DELIBERATE PLAN TO CONQUER SOUTHERN NIGERIA EXPOSED—HERDSMEN DESTROY FARMS & FORCE FARMERS OUT!

In this video, we’re exposing a chilling reality—Fulani herdsmen are deliberately targeting Southern Nigeria, destroying farmlands, and forcing farmers to flee. This isn’t just a random crisis—it’s an organized takeover, and today, we have shocking details from those directly affected.

Take Olatunde Solomon, for example. He left his job in Abuja to start a plantain farm in Ekiti. He poured nearly two million naira into it, hoping to secure his children’s future. But in one night, everything was destroyed—wiped out by herdsmen. Now, he’s drowning in debt with nowhere to turn.

And he’s not alone. Bayo Akindele, another farmer, had his yam and cassava fields flattened. He lost 1.8 million naira worth of investment. Imagine working for an entire year, only for criminals to storm in and ruin everything overnight!

Farmers are crying out, but authorities are doing little to help. Even security forces admit they’re powerless in the bush, while Amotekun lacks the weapons to fight back. So what happens next? More hunger? More farmers abandoning their land?

Government officials say they’re working on solutions, but words mean nothing if action isn’t taken. This is about survival—not just for the farmers, but for all of us.

Fulani’s Deliberate Plan To Conquer Southern Nig Exposed—herdsmen Destroy Farms

Like former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi has thrown his support behind Ushie Rita Uguamaye, also known as Raye, a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member who recently came under fire for criticizing the current administration, ThisDay Nigeria reports.

In a statement shared on his official X account, Obi condemned the alleged threats Raye has faced from NYSC officials, stating that it reflects a worrying trend where “voices of reason and truth are met with intimidation rather than dialogue and engagement.”

Obi noted that such repression is not new, as he himself has faced threats and harassment for expressing views aimed at offering constructive solutions to government policies.

“I now face daily intimidation, harassment, and name-calling simply for expressing solution-based views on government policies,” he stated.

The former Anambra governor stated that silencing dissenting voices goes against democratic principles. “A government that silences its citizens is not democratic or one that is subject to accountability and good governance and is most often corrupt,” he remarked.

Obi advised the current administration to embrace criticism as a vital component of democracy, calling on Nigerians not to be intimidated into silence.

“Do not let fear stifle your voice. Stand firm, support one another, and continue to advocate for the Nigeria we all envision—a nation where freedom of speech is sacrosanct, and leadership is accountable to the people, especially in critical areas such as education, healthcare, and poverty alleviation,” he said.

Full statement reads:

The National Youth Corps member, Ushie Rita Uguamaye, also known as Raye, recently had an experience that highlights a troubling trend in our nation—one where voices of reason and truth are met with intimidation rather than dialogue and engagement.

Reports indicate that she has faced threats from NYSC officials simply for expressing her concerns about the current administration.

This pattern is not isolated. I, too, have been subjected to threats for daring to offer constructive suggestions and comments.

I now face daily intimidation, harassment, and name-calling simply for expressing solution-based views on government policies.

Such actions are antithetical to the principles of democracy. A government that silences its citizens is not democratic or one that is subject to accountability and good governance and is most often corrupt.

I urge the current administration to reflect deeply on its approach to dissent and recognize that constructive criticism is a cornerstone of democratic progress.

To all patriotic Nigerians: Our nation’s future and development depend on our collective courage to speak out against misgovernance, injustice, and intimidation.

Do not let fear stifle your voice. Stand firm, support one another, and continue to advocate for Nigeria we all envision—a nation where freedom of speech is sacrosanct, and leadership is accountable to the people, especially in critical areas such as education, healthcare, and poverty alleviation.

A just and prosperous Nigeria should be one where people like Raye are encouraged to speak out about the challenges they face, while those in government take urgent action to address these issues.

A New Nigeria is POssible! -PO

Peter Obi Backs Lagos Corper Facing Threats Over Viral Video

Labour Party Opposes Move To Strike Out Suit Over Defection, As 27 Rivers Assembly Cites Supreme Court Judgment

The Federal High Court in Port Harcourt has adjourned the suit filed by the Labour Party against the Rivers State House of Assembly (RSHA) and 30 others to Monday, March 17, 2025, for the hearing of a motion seeking to strike out the case.

"At the resumed hearing of Suit No: FHC/PH/25/2024 on March 11, 2025, K.C.O. Njemanze, SAN, counsel for the Rivers State House of Assembly, informed the court of a motion filed on March 10, 2025, urging the court to strike out the suit in light of the Supreme Court’s ruling on February 28, 2025. Njemanze argued that the apex court had already determined all issues raised in the case and that, under Section 287(1) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), the Federal High Court was bound to comply with the Supreme Court’s decision."

"However, Clifford N Chuku Esq., counsel for the Labour Party, opposed the motion, stating that he had filed a reply that morning on points of law to contest the motion to strike out the case. He asserted that the facts surrounding the Supreme Court’s ruling were distinguishable from the subject of the current suit, which centers on the defection of 27 lawmakers from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). Chuku further emphasized that the Federal High Court, under Section 272(3) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), has exclusive jurisdiction to determine issues of defection involving House of Assembly members.

While Njemanze, SAN, urged the court to first hear the motion to strike out the suit, Clifford N Chuku Esq., argued that, in the interest of fair hearing, all pending matters should be taken together before judgment is delivered. He contended that hearing the motion separately could lead to a denial of justice."

"In a bench ruling, Justice E.A. Obile of the Federal High Court (Court 2), Port Harcourt Judicial Division, decided that the court would first hear the motion on notice before considering the substantive case. Consequently, upon agreement of both parties, the matter was adjourned to Monday, March 17, 2025, at 2:00 PM for the hearing of the motion."

Labour Party Opposes Move To Strike Out Suit Over Defection, As 27 Rivers Assemb

If the PDP is serious about 2027, these are three things they should do NOW:

1. Expel Wike and the G5 governors, including Makinde and let him and co-travelers do worse. Their anti-party stance would scottle any plan towards 2027. If they secure their mid-night court judgement as usual, all PDP governors and leaders should leave the party for them 

2. Commnce serious discussion with Peter Obi to run under the party as presidential candidate in 2027, with s strong Northern candidate. Also, seek audience with Kwankwaso of NNPP. A united PDP is the only political vehicle to dislodge the APC

3. Prevail on Atiku to step aside so that a Southern candidate like Peter Obi can steer the party to victory. The Elrufa SDP janglover should be taken with a pinch of salt. The SDP looks like a red- herring by Tinubu and APC to distract opposition.

This is my one cent position. If ElRufai is serious about ousting Tinubu in 2027, he should realign with PDP and not creating another division within the opposition camp. Only PDP has the structure in 774 local government and over 9000 wards and village political groups in Nigeria. No party can create such in 2 years as ElRufai is proposing.

PDP Crisis: Expel Wike And G5 Now

ENUGWU AGIDI PG EULOGIZES GOVERNOR SOLUDO AS HE MARKS 3 YEARS IN OFFICE

The Good People Of Enugwu Agidi Felicitate With The Governor Of Anambra State, Prof Charles Soludo On His Landmark 3 Years In Office

We Are Proud Of Your Achievements In All Sectors Of The State's Economy

The Road Infrastructural Revolution Under Your Administration Has Never Been Witnessed Since The Creation Of Anambra State Such That You Have Opened Up The Entire Anambra State, Connecting One Community With Another; Making Movement Of Goods, Services And Human Beings Very Easy For Our People. Today Ekwulobia Has Been Added As The 4th Modern Urban Areas Of The State After Awka, Onitsha And Nnewi. It Would Not Have Been So Without Your Soludo's Solution Touch.

The Education And Health Sectors Have Also Being Upgraded By The Solution Governor And Ndi Anambra Are Happy For It

Today Our People Are Celebrating One Month Of Non-Report Of Crime Incident In The State, Following Your Renewed Onslaught Against Armed Robbers, Kidnappers And Unknown Gunmen With The Agunechemba Boys Who Are Doing Extremely Well Since The Security Outfit Was Launched By Mr Governor

We In Enugwu Agidi, Are Pledging Our Continued Support For Your Government Even As We Heartily Congratulate You On Your Successful Remarkable 3 Years Anniversary In Office As Anambra State Governor.

Best Wishes His Excellency !

From,
Hon Ebuka Onuorah,
PG Enugwu Agidi On Behalf Of Enugwu Agidi Community

Enugwu Agidi Pg Eulogizes Governor Soludo As He Marks 3 Years In Office

On Saturday 16 March 2025, Peru’s state news agency Andina reported that 61 year old fisherman Máximo Napa Castro has been found alive in the Pacific Ocean after spending 95 days lost at sea.

On 7 December 2024, Castro had set off on his fishing boat from Marcona, a coastal town in southern Peru, but bad weather forced him off course and he lost direction.

He was found on Tuesday 11 March 2025 by an Ecuadorian fishing boat in waters off the coast of northern Peru, heavily dehydrated and in critical condition

After his rescue, Napa Castro told local media he survived by drinking rainwater collected on the boat and eating insects, birds and a turtle, but spent the last 15 days without eating.

Napa Castro told local media he kept thinking about his family to “hold on” to life.

According to Ecuavisa, Castro has received medical attention at the Nuestra Señora de las Mercedes hospital in Paita and was discharged on Saturday 16 March 2025.

SOURCE

Peruvian Fisherman Found Alive After 95 Days Lost At Sea

> 

NewsNigerian troops arrest two notorious bandits, recover dangerous weapons in PlateauPublished on March 16, 2025By Ochogwu Sunday

The Nigerian Army has said its troops of 3 Division/Operation Safe Haven have arrested two notorious kidnappers, Bashir Mohammed and Ismail Mohammad, in Plateau State.

According to a statement on its official Facebook page on Sunday, the Nigerian Army said the operation was carried out on Saturday following intelligence reports.

“The operation, conducted under Operation LAFIYAN JAMA’A, raided a kidnappers’ hideout at Katume High Grounds in Bassa LGA, following credible intelligence that kidnappers often hide their victims in the area while negotiating for ransom,” the Army HQ said.

The statement added that during the operation, troops recovered dangerous weapons, including one AK-47 rifle and one AK-47 magazine, from the criminal elements.

“The arrested kidnappers are currently in custody, making useful confessions that will aid follow-up operations to arrest their cohorts and recover their weapons.

“This success is a testament to the effectiveness of Operation SAFE HAVEN’s efforts to tackle insecurity in the region,” it added.

Newsnigerian Troops Arrest Two Notorious Bandits, Recover Dangerous Weapons In P

Rivers State elder and political analyst, Sara Igbe, has made a shocking claim about former Governor Nyesom Wike, alleging that his own father disowned him due to his political betrayals.

Speaking in a recent interview, Igbe stated that Wike’s actions have left many people disappointed, including his late father. According to him, Wike’s father was so displeased with his son’s political conduct that he distanced himself from him before his passing.

"Wike has betrayed everyone who stood by him, including his own political godfathers. Even his father disowned him because of his actions. That tells you the kind of person he is," Igbe stated.

He accused Wike of systematically betraying those who helped him rise to power, including political allies within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Igbe insisted that Wike’s ambition has led him to destroy friendships and turn against those who once trusted him.

"He turned against Rotimi Amaechi after benefiting from him. He turned against Goodluck Jonathan and even betrayed the PDP that made him governor. Now, he is fighting Fubara, the very man he installed. It is clear that Wike cannot be trusted," Igbe added.

The Rivers elder further warned that Wike’s political moves could backfire, as more people are beginning to see through his tactics. He claimed that even those still standing with him might soon abandon him when they realize his true nature.

His statement has sparked reactions across Rivers State, with some questioning the authenticity of the claim, while others believe it reflects the growing discontent over Wike’s political dealings.

As the crisis in Rivers State politics deepens, this revelation has further fueled discussions about Wike’s legacy and the consequences of his political choices.

Wike Started This Mess As A Boy, His Father Disowned Him –Sara Igbe

In a bold and groundbreaking move, Peter Obi, the prominent Nigerian politician and former presidential candidate, is gearing up for a highly anticipated visit to the White House. Joined by a few passionate Obidients, Obi will meet with U.S. President Donald Trump and senior White House officials to discuss crucial matters regarding Nigeria's upcoming 2027 presidential election.

This historic visit aims to open dialogue on how the 2027 Nigerian elections can be free, fair, and transparent. The group intends to raise concerns about the legitimacy of the 2023 presidential election that saw Bola Tinubu assume office. Obi and his team will urge Trump to consider investigating the 2023 election results to ensure that any potential malpractices or irregularities are thoroughly examined, particularly in light of concerns about the abuse of executive power.

Obi’s mission extends beyond politics – he plans to delve into broader economic discussions with Trump and White House officials, comparing the U.S. and Nigerian economies. With growing hopes for a stronger Nigeria, Obi aims to explore how both countries can collaborate to foster mutual growth and prosperity.

As the 2027 elections draw near, Peter Obi’s determined efforts to secure a free and fair electoral process in Nigeria could reshape the future of the nation's democracy, with global attention on his next steps.

Stay tuned for updates on this pivotal visit!

Exciting News: Peter Obi And Obidients Set To Visit Donald Trump At White House!

The Delta State Chapter of the Unemployed Youths Association of Nigeria (UYAN) has lauded Chief Dr. Dennis Brutu Otuaro on his first anniversary as administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), commending his visionary leadership and transformative initiatives.

In a statement, UYAN extolled Dr. Otuaro's exceptional dedication and the profound impact of his reforms over the past year. "Your ability to navigate the challenges associated with your office is truly commendable," the statement read. "We appreciate your hard work, strategic insight, and unwavering support to those in need."

Dr. Otuaro, a distinguished Niger Delta activist and scholar, was appointed as PAP Administrator in March 2024. His tenure has been marked by significant reforms aimed at enhancing the programme and fostering development in the Niger Delta region. 

Prior to his appointment, he earned a PhD in Comparative Politics and Development Studies from the University of Benin in November 2023, underscoring his commitment to the region's advancement.

Under Dr. Otuaro's leadership, PAP has experienced growth, innovation, and positive change. His grassroots approach and deep understanding of the Niger Delta's challenges have been pivotal in steering the programme toward meaningful impact. 

He has reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring sustainable peace and security in the Niger Delta, focusing on economic empowerment and human capital development in the region. 

In like manner, UYAN has been proactive in supporting vulnerable individuals. As most recently in December 2024, the association distributed palliatives worth millions of Naira to less privileged persons in Warri, demonstrating their commitment to community welfare and social responsibility.

As Dr. Otuaro marks this significant milestone, UYAN joins all well-meaning Nigerians in celebrating his achievements and anticipates further advancements in PAP under his visionary leadership.

Delta Youths Laud PAP Chief, Otuaro On First Anniversary

> The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) says its discoveries at the Idumota, Ariaria, and Onitsha drug markets can ruin a nation.

The agency has been cracking down on fake and banned medicines in major markets across the country, seizing large consignments of illegal and adulterated drugs.

Speaking on Friday during a press briefing in Lagos, Mojisola Adeyeye, NAFDAC director-general, said its personnel seized up to 80 to 40 feet truckloads of drugs from the Onitsha and Aba markets.

“What we found during our enforcement operations in Idumota, Aba and Onitsha open drug markets can ruin a nation and reduce the quality of life of Nigerians,” Adeyeye said.

“If a patient with diabetes or hypertension takes some of the drugs we evacuated, such a person or people can die easily with what we found.”

Adeyeye, who said the agency destroyed about 27 to 40 feet truckloads of medicines discovered in Idumota market, noted that the counterfeit drugs could “reduce the quality of life of Nigerians”.

The NAFDAC DG said that although the enforcement operations have ended, the agency would not relent in its efforts to curb the sale of fake drugs in the country.

“In Onitsha and Aba, we evacuated close to 80 40-feet truckloads of drugs from the markets and various warehouses where drugs were stored without windows,” she added.

“We discovered 12 truckloads of tramadol and four truckloads of codeine syrups that were banned for treatment some years ago in the plumbing line, fashion line and wood section in the market.

“We have already destroyed 27 40-feet truckloads of drugs we evacuated from Idumota market.”

NAFDAC: Drugs Found During Enforcement Operations In Markets Can Ruin A Nation

Rivers Crisis: Judicial panel faults Supreme Court judgement

An 11-man Independent Judicial Accountability Panel, whose membership included three retired justices, has on Friday, March 14, 2025, faulted the Supreme Court over its judgement on the protracted political crisis in Rivers State.

The panel, headed by retired Justice Mojeed Owoade of the Court of Appeal, said in a statement following its inaugural meeting in Abuja that it was worried that the apex court’s judgement on appeals emanating from legal disputes in Rivers state descended into live issues.

According to the panel, which said it carried out an exhaustive analysis of some recent cases of public interest, “the judgement of the Supreme Court in the consolidated appeals leaves a gap as to whether the issue of the alleged defection of 27 members of the Rivers State House of Assembly is still alive or has been settled.

“This is because the court made comments on the issue of defection without actually addressing it.”

Highlighting that though the apex court had nothing before it, as at the time of the judgement, to establish that the 27 lawmakers were no longer bonafide members of the Rivers Assembly, the panel maintained that the apex court should not have commented on the issue at all since there were pending litigations on the matter.

However, it ruled out the possibility of any of the parties filing an application for judicial review of the judgement, saying, “As far as the case is concerned, the Supreme Court has become functus-officio in the matter.”

“Complex and lengthy judgements of courts defy easy comprehension and therefore undermine public trust,” the Justice Owoade-led panel noted, even as it urged judicial officers “to be mindful of their oath of office at all times.”

As part of its recommendations, the panel held that “politicians should generally avoid undue influence on the judiciary and be more accommodating of each other in the interest of their people.”

It also urged the government at all levels to obey court orders and respect the fundamental rights of citizens in a democracy, decrying that over nine months after the ECOWAS Court awarded damages to victims of the October 2020 End SARS protest, the Federal Government had yet to comply with the judgment.

“IJAP recommends that the Federal Government of Nigeria obey orders not only of our domestic courts but also those of International Courts, in line with its obligations under various treaties. The panel recognises that concerted citizen action will be necessary for achieving this.

“Citizens should show more interest and get involved in activities that hold the judiciary and other government agencies accountable.

“The media should be more courageous, factual and non-partisan in investigating and reporting the role of the judiciary in our democracy,” the panel added.

Other members of the panel are two retired Justices of the Court of Appeal, Justices Chinwe Iyizoba and Oloduton Adefope-Okojie, as well as Prof. Okechukwu Ibeanu, Prof. Jummai Audi, Mr. Mac Imoni Amarere, Barr. Sechap A. Tsokwa, Andrew Mamedu, Judith Gbagidi, Barr. Funmi Olukeye and Celestine Okwudil.

The panel is a fallout of an expanded project that the ActionAid Nigeria and Citizens’ Led Engagement on Judicial Accountability in Post-Election Justice Delivery in Nigeria (CLEAP-Justice) has been implementing since July 2023.

The Country Director of ActionAid, Andrew Mamedu, said the project had evolved into one that supports citizens’ actions towards judicial accountability, which is not limited to electoral matters.

Rivers Crisis: Judicial Panel Faults Supreme Court Judgement

The Trade Union Congress (TUC) has waded into the trending issue of a corps member who allegedly got threatened by officials of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) for criticising the President Bola Tinubu administration.

TUC President, Festus Osifo, said that the corps member spoke out of frustration, advising the government not to go after her but to be tolerant of critics.

The Lagos-based NYSC member, Ushie Uguamaye, had taken to TikTok to criticise Tinubu’s government over hardship Nigerians face as a result of the administration’s economic reforms.

Her video went viral and got the attention on NYSC officials whom she later accused of calling her and issuing a threat to her to delete the video. NYSC is yet to release an official statement regarding the issue.

But the TUC boss said, “They (government) have to develop this resilience to understand that people are frustrated, people are hungry, people are tired. So, if they decide to vent, I strongly believe that the government should not personalise it and come after such individuals.

“Imagine a young lady carrying out her NYSC function, what does she really have to do to bring down government? So, it is about personal frustration that she has aired.

“So, I think that the government has to persevere much more, they have to be more tolerant, and they have to have this deep level of patient with Nigerians because people are passing through a lot as it stands today.”

The TUC boss, however, advised critics to always criticise the government within the expected norm and with some level of decorum.

In a statement released earlier on Sunday, Amnesty International also condemned the alleged threats and intimidation being faced by Lagos-based corps member.

It said that the Federal Government must stop threatening individuals and groups who criticise the current administration.

“The Nigerian authorities must stop responding with violence and threats to individuals and groups who express dissenting opinions — in utter disregard for Nigerian constitution and international law. Holding and voicing dissenting views is not a crime,” the organisation in a statement.

Government Should Be Tolerant Of Criticisms

Alleged Sexual Harassment: Testimony From Sen. Nwebonyi Vindicates SP Akpabio — Ebira Women Professionals Forum

Solidarity has continued to come the way of Senate President Godswill Akpabio following allegation of sexual harassment against him by the Senator representing Kogi Central, Sen. Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.

The allegation in the past couple of weeks has dominated public discourse, with individuals and groups aligning based on their convictions on the matter.

The latest is coming from Kogi women same state with Akpoti-Uduaghan. Known as Ebira Women Professionals Forum (EWPF) who said abundant facts point to the innocence of the Senate President who has not only demonstrated that he is gender friendly but has received honour to that effect as Governor of Akwa Ibom State. 

The group in a statement on Friday signed by its President General, Hajia Salamatu Abdullahi expressed disappointment over the allegation by Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, accusing her of being on a mission to bring international embarrassment instead of honour. 

It says the testimony by a member of the Senate, Sen. Onyekachi Nwebonyi who in a recent interview said he was part of Senators that visited Akpabio in Uyo December 2023 during the Senate President’s birthday. 

According to him, he drove in the same car with Sen. Akpoti-Uduaghan’s and her husband and can't remember when the Senate President harassed his Kogi Central colleague. 

Agreeing totally with the Distinguished Senator, Ebira Women Professionals Forum accused Akpoti-Uduaghan of being a serial blackmailer who will stop at nothing to use sexual harassment allegation to damage people's reputation. 

The women group said a testimony from an insider who was part of the visit cannot be controverted. 

It applauded the suspension of Akpoti-Uduaghan for her unparliamemtary behaviour and called on Ebira Women to always be good Ambassadors of the tribe and Kogi in general.

Testimony From Sen. Nwebonyi Vindicates SP Akpabio — Ebira Women Professionals F

A Former Deputy Governor of Edo State, Philip Shuaibu has revealed that he was duped by his former friend and boss, Governor Godwin Obaseki.

Shuaibu, in a recent interview, disclosed that Obaseki swindled him of $300,000 shortly before their defection to the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP.

He revealed that Obaseki told him that he needed the money for ‘lobbying’ some party leaders. He told Sun;

“When the issue of moving to PDP came and when there was this question about what will the PDP get, if we are given governor, why they should take deputy, for me at that time, I told him if deputy will be the issue, let it go. Let them bring deputy and you go. In so far as they give you the ticket, go ahead. I sacrificed it.”

He added; “I contributed money. I contributed $300,000. He collected $300,000 from me to say he was going to add to $700,000 to go and lobby them in Port Harcourt. But we later found out from the zonal PDP Chairman that he never gave them any money.”

“So, he even duped me (general laughter). And it took me like seven months to be able to pay back that money where I collected it from. I was paying instalmentally to be able to pay that money. That was why I had to raise alarm because I was paying for money that they said was not used. And this money was not returned back. Till today, he didn’t return the money back. You can ask Chief Dan Orbih and Ogbeide-Ihama. I am calling names now.”

It’s common knowledge that Obaseki and Shuaibu battled each other towards the end of their second term in office. The rift was so deep that it led to the Impeachment of Shuaibu as Deputy Governor.

How Obaseki Duped Me Of $300,000 – Ex-edo Deputy Governor, Shuaibu

Former Jigawa State Governor and Peoples Democratic Party chieftain, Sule Lamido, has dismissed a call by ex-Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, urging opposition leaders to join the Social Democratic Party.

El-Rufai, who recently announced his defection from the All Progressives Congress to the SDP, made the call in an interview with BBC Hausa.

While he did not mention Lamido by name, he invited key opposition figures, including Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Rotimi Amaechi, and Rauf Aregbesola, to join him in the SDP.

Responding in a separate BBC Hausa interview on Sunday, Lamido dismissed the invitation as an insult, insisting that the PDP, which he helped build, laid the foundation for El-Rufai’s political career.

“The party we formed, the PDP, is the one that gave birth to El-Rufai.

“You’re not enough to make us leave the PDP,” Lamido said.

He added, “He once said that there are no adults in Nigeria in politics, but now he is calling on us to join him in the SDP.”

The former governor also questioned El-Rufai’s motives for defecting from the APC to the SDP.

“He said he told President Buhari about his decision to leave the APC, but now he is saying that he is one of the adults in Nigerian politics,” Lamido stated.

The former governor argued that the PDP had not done anything to warrant his defection, emphasizing his long-standing loyalty.

“If I was going to leave the PDP, I would have done so in 2014 when the APC was formed,” he said.

The former governor also criticised El-Rufai’s leadership style, saying that leadership is not about anger or selfish ambition.

“Leadership is done with patience and vision, and doing things for the peace of the followers and the country as a whole,” Lamido said.

Lamido advised El-Rufai to put patriotism first instead of showing anger towards others, saying, “What should be done is to put patriotism first, instead of showing anger towards someone.”

He added, “The PDP has been working to rebuild its strength after losing the 2015 presidential election.”

Ex-Gov Lamido Rejects El-Rufai’s Call To Join SDP

Rivers crisis: Pro-Wike lawmakers setting traps – Jega reveals only obstacle to Fubara’s impeachmentP

A former appointee of President Bola Tinubu and political analyst, Mahmud Jega, has said that Rivers State Chief Judge, Simeon Amadi, is the obstacle before the state House of Assembly in the plot to impeach Governor Siminalayi Fubara.

Jega said this on Arise Television while analysing the political crisis rocking Rivers State and the involvement of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Nyesome Wike.

He noted that the lawmakers loyal to the FCT Minister were setting traps for the Governor, looking for a tangible reason to commence impeachment processes.

Recall that Wike on Saturday said he has no plan to stop members of the Rivers State House of Assembly from performing their constitutional duties.

DAILY POST can report that part of the legislative functions of the Assembly is to impeach the governor if he is found wanting.

The lawmakers, about 27 of them, have been at loggerheads with Governor Fubara as they try to maintain their loyalty to the FCT minister.

The lawmakers led by Martin Amaewhule recently obtained victory at the Supreme Court, which ordered that they should resume their legislative duties.

The governor was also ordered to re-present the 2025 budget to the full House of the Assembly and reconduct the local council elections.

When he arrived at the state assembly re-present the budget on Thursday, he was locked out by the lawmakers on the ground that they were not adequately informed of his visit.

There are speculations about the majority lawmakers plotting the governor’s impeachment.

“The Rivers State assembly members are loyal to Wike and bent on impeaching Fubara,” Jega said.

“The assembly members are setting traps for Governor Fubara to commit an impeachable offense.

“Their only obstacle is the chief judge of Rivers, who they are now going after,” he added.

DAILY POST also reported that the Rivers State House of Assembly had set plans in motion to investigate the state Chief Judge, Justice Simeon Amadi, for alleged falsification of age.

Rivers Crisis: Pro-wike Lawmakers Setting Traps – Jega Reveals Only Obstacle To

The Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, was recently seen riding a scooter through his ancestral home, Ode-Itsekiri, in a video that has now gone viral.

The footage, which surfaced on Saturday, captured the revered monarch effortlessly navigating the scooter as his people cheered and sang his praises. The lighthearted moment has drawn admiration from many, showcasing his relatable and modern approach to leadership.

Ogiame Atuwatse III (born 2 April 1984) is a Nigerian traditional ruler of the Kingdom of Warri in Delta State. He ascended the throne as the 21st Olu of Warri on August 21, 2021, and has since been recognized for his efforts in cultural preservation, economic development, and youth empowerment in the Warri Kingdom.

Olu Of Warri Rides Scooter Through Ode-Itsekiri With Swags

> by Ayomikunle Daramola

Femi Falana, the human rights lawyer, says any official probe by security agencies into Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s attendance at the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) meeting in New York could bring unnecessary embarrassment to Nigeria.

Falana’s warning comes amid allegations by Senate President Godswill Akpabio that the senator’s actions humiliated the government and people of Nigeria after Akpoti-Uduaghan reported her suspension to the international body.

Akpoti-Uduaghan had recently accused Akpabio of sexually harassing her.

The allegation came in the wake of her seating arrangement altercation with Akpabio at the red chamber.

She was subsequently suspended from the senate for “gross misconduct” over the debacle.

Akpoti-Uduaghan spoke at the IPU meeting on March 11 about the suspension, telling the gathering that the action was designed to silence her over the sexual harassment allegations.

In a report on Sunday, the Department of State Services (DSS) and the National Intelligence Agency (NIA) have launched a probe into how the Kogi senator attended the IPU meeting in New York without an official nomination.

However, in a statement issued on Sunday, Falana warned that the investigation by security forces risks exposing the country to “needless embarrassment and undeserved ridicule”.

“Finally, it is public knowledge that the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio had accused Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of embarrassing the government and people of the Federal Republic of Nigeria by reporting her suspension by the senate to the Inter-Parliamentary Union,” the statement reads.

“Contrary to the jaundiced views of the senate leader, it is the official probe of the circumstances of her trip by security forces that will expose Nigeria to needless embarrassment and undeserved ridicule

“Therefore, the SSS and NIA may study the report of the investigation of our illegal travelling by the Sani Abacha military junta before embarking on the futile attempt to probe senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for having the temerity to externalise the “internal affair of the senate.

“In fact, the probe will particularly embarrass some top officials of the Bola Tinubu administration who were once accused of travelling out of Nigeria to embarrass the defunct military junta.”

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