“Nyesom Wike Should Apologise For Calling Military Officer A Fool” – Fmr. Aviation Minister, Chidoka

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November 12, 2025

By Adesina Soyooye

“Minister Wike’s behaviour diminishes the office of a Minister and the authority of the Republic”

A former Aviation Minister, Osita Chidoka, has chided Nyesom Wike, Minister for the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, for verbally insulting an Army Officer.

Wike had, on Tuesday, verbally engaged the officer for denying him access to a building project.

“Shut up”, Wike hauled at the Officer, to which he responded: “I will not shut up.” But Wike continued: “You are a very big fool. As at the time I graduated, you were still in Primary School.”

But the officer responded: “I am not a fool Sir. I am not a fool Sir. I am not a fool Sir. I am acting on orders. I am acting on orders. I am acting on orders.”

Trouble started when soldiers, on Tuesday, November 11, blocked the Minister and his officials from accessing a building project, allegedly, over government approval issues.

When Wike insisted on having access, the officer told him that he was acting on orders of his superior, now identified as a former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Awwal Zubairu Gambo

But Wike told the officer: “Get out, you must vacate the land”, the officer calmly replied: “I have integrity”, and stood his ground.

During the heated argument, Wike told the officer: “You cannot tell me that. We cannot continue to act in this impunity. Where is the approval given to you people? You cannot continue this way. Even if he (former CNS) has a problem, he cannot reach me and say ‘I am sorry?’ You’ll send soldiers to intimidate who? We’re all from this country. And you cannot be higher than any government. You cannot be intimidating people with guns.”

The argument ended when the Chief of Defence Staff intervened.

Wike: “Let me tell you, if not for the Chief of the Defence Staff who spoke to me, you could have killed everybody here. No problem. I am not one of those that you can intimidate. I am doing my job. Show me the approval that you’ve been approved to do what you’re doing.”

But Chidoka has chastised Wike for verbally abusing the Army Officer. “Abusing a law enforcement officer,” the former Minister said in a statement on Tuesday, November 11, “diminishes the authority of the Republic”

In the statement titled: “Minister Wike: Power, Process, and the Rule of Law” Chidoka said:

“Any law enforcement officer, in uniform or plain clothes, represents the President and the sovereignty of the Nigerian state.

“To abuse such an officer is to diminish the authority of the Republic itself.

“Minister Nyesom Wike’s decision to personally enforce a directive at a disputed site was a fundamental misstep. In constitutional democracies, power operates through institutions not impulse.

“Executive authority must be exercised or adjudicated through the Courts, Ministries, and lawful instruments of State, never through confrontation.

“No matter how justified a grievance, a Minister cannot become an enforcer; that violates the very idea of ordered Government.

“In a democracy, Ministers act through process, not presence.

” A formal communication to the Minister of Defence, whose office oversees the Armed Forces, would have sufficed. If the officers were on illegal duty, the established disciplinary systems would have addressed it.

“When a Minister trades words with a uniformed officer acting under orders — lawful or otherwise — it corrodes discipline and confuses hierarchy.

“The officer’s duty is to obey the chain of command, not verbal instructions on a roadside; the Minister’s duty is to act through lawful channels.

“The Minister should apologise to the officer for using abusive language. It is not acceptable behaviour.

“The conduct of the DSS protective details was equally unprofessional. Their responsibility was to extract their principal from a rancorous and potentially dangerous situation, not to escalate it.

“Security officers must remember that their loyalty is to the state, not to personalities.

“This episode is a cautionary tale: This episode demeans the dignity of the office of the Minister and undermines the image of disciplined governance.”

Tinubu ‘s Delegation Arrives UK, Seeks Transfer Of Jailed Fmr Deputy Senate President, Ekweremadu To Nigeria

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Ayodele Oni

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November 11, 2025

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By Ayodele Oni

A high-level Nigerian Government delegation is in the United Kingdom, (UK), to engage officials of the UK Ministry of Justice as regards the case of the former Deputy President of the Senate, Dr. Ike Ekweremadu, who has been in custody in the UK since March 2023.

The delegation, led by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, includes the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN.

Report revealed that the delegation has began consultations with UK authorities to secure former Deputy Senate President transfer to Nigeria to serve his remaining jail term.

On arrival in the UK, the delegation met with UK Ministers of Foreign Affairs and Justice, and they’re expected to hold other meetings with key officials regarding the matter.

Confirming the move by the Nigerian government, the spokesman of Foreign Affairs Minister Yusuf Tuggar, Alkasim AbdulKadir told Arise Correspondent that: “Consultations still ongoing with UK authorities on the matter.

“An appeal for Prisoner exchange for him to serve the remainder of his term in Nigeria was tabled before the United Kingdom authorities.”

Ekweremadu, his wife, Beatrice, and a UK-based medical doctor, Obinna Obeta, were arrested in June 2022 at Heathrow Airport, London, over allegations of conspiring to traffic a young Nigerian man to the UK for the purpose of organ harvesting for their ailing daughter.

In March 2023, a UK court found the trio guilty under the Modern Slavery Act 2015, marking the first conviction of its kind for organ trafficking.

Justice Jeremy Johnson described the offence as one that exploited the vulnerability of the victim.

Ekweremadu was sentenced to nine years and eight months in prison; his wife, Beatrice, to four years and six months; and Dr. Obeta to ten years. Mrs. Ekweremadu has since completed her sentence and been released.

President Tinubu’s decision to send a delegation reflects Nigeria’s continued diplomatic engagement with the UK government to explore available legal and humanitarian options within the framework of international law and the longstanding bilateral relationship between both countries.

Gov. Election: PDP Suspends Anambra’ Governorship Candidate, Ezenwafor Over Alleged Sell-Out

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Suleiman Anyalewechi

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November 11, 2025

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By Suleiman Anyalewechi

Casket-ready Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, on Tuesday, October 11, 2025 wielded the big stick against its flag bearer in the just concluded Anambra State Governorship polls, Chief Jude Ezenwafor.

Citing alleged compromise during the election as a major reason, the party slammed Ezenwafor with an initial one month suspension.

This is as the Independent National Electoral Commission INEC, presented Certificates of Return to Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo and his Deputy, Dr. Onyekachi Ibezim as winners of the November 8, 2025 election.

The Source reports that the PDP Governorship candidate was at the state’s seat of power on Monday October 10,where he not only congratulated Governor Soludo on his electoral victory ,but also pledged to work together with the All Progressive Grand Alliance, APGA, victorious flag bearer

But rising from an emergency executive committee meeting on Tuesday October 11,the state PDP Chairman, Dr Chidi Chidebe, accused Ezenwafor of not only compromising the interest of the party, but betrayed all stakeholders before and during the gubernatorial election.

According to him, shortly after picking the party’s ticket, Ezenwafor became inaccessible, refusing to carry along party officials and stakeholders in all matters relating to the preparation for the polls.

The PDP chairman who pointedly accused Ezenwafor of selling-out to PDP opponents during the election, noted that the party’s flag bearer refused to campaign,

or call for assistance from the party.

Reading from a communique issued at the end of the party’s executive committee meeting, Dr Chidebe informed that the only time the PDP and its officials heard from Ezenwafor after emerging as the candidate was when he announced his purported attack in Abuja.

“The Anambra State Governorship election has come and gone, and the general atmosphere during the election was largely peaceful and both the conduct and outcome were to a reasonable extent transparent.

“However, the Anambra State PDP Executive Committee had earlier expressed deep concerns over the disturbing conduct of our Governorship candidate Mr Jude Ezenwafor.

“Throughout the campaign period, the candidate exhibited attitudes and tendencies that were not only uncooperative, but outrightly destructive to the the collective interest of the party.

“It is on record that the Governorship candidate, Mr Jude Ezenwafor, secured only one(1) vote in his own ward, Nnobi Ward 3, Idemili South Local Government Area, a ward with twelve (12) units.

“This abysmal performance represents the worst result for PDP in any ward across the State, and clearly exposes his lack of character, credibility and commitment both to the party and election.

“After reviewing the activities of the candidate, the committee suspended him for one month, and recommended him for further disciplinary actions to the state disciplinary committee”, Dr Chidebe stated.

The state executive committee also resolved to formally notify the National Working Committee, with a recommendation not to grant Ezenwafor or his “collaborators any further access ,or recognition at the National Secretariat, as their activities are clearly aimed at distabilizing the party”

Presenting the Certificates of Return to Governor Soludo and his Deputy on Tuesday, the Supervising INEC National Commissioner in-charge of the Anambra state election, Kenneth Ikeagu, noted that the exercise is in conformity with the provisions of section 72 (1) of the Electoral Act 2022.

“We are here to present the Certificates of Return to the Governor and Deputy Governor of Anambra State, following their successful outing during the state Governorship election held on Saturday, November 8,2025.

” Section 72(1) of the Electoral Act mandates the Independent National Electoral Commission INEC to issue a certificate of return within 14 days to every candidate who has been duly returned by the returning officer.

“In compliance with this statutory provision, I have the honour and privilege, in my capacity as the Supervising National Electoral Commissioner for the Anambra State Governorship Election to present the Certificates of Return to the Governor and the Deputy Governor-elect ” Ikeagu stated .

The Source reports that Governor Soludo polled 422 ,664 votes to defeat his opponents from the rival parties including the APC which candidate Prince Nicolas Ukachukwu garnered 99,445 to come a distant second.

Clean Sweep For CRS APC As Senator Jarigbe Dumps PDP For The Party

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Akinwale Kasali

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November 11, 2025

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By Akinwale Kasali

The All Progressives Congress, APC, has increased the number of its Senators to 76. This is a product of the defection of Senator Jarigbe Jarigbe, representing Cross River North Senatorial District from the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, to the All Progressives Congress, APC.

In a letter written to the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, and read at plenary on Tuesday by the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Jibrin Barau, Senator Jarigbe cited the unending crisis in the PDP as the major reason for his defection.

He explained that his exit from the PDP followed months of internal crises and irreconcilable divisions that had crippled the party both at the national and state levels.

Jarigbe said, “I rise to formally notify you and the distinguished leadership of the Senate of my

resignation from the Peoples

Democratic Party, on whose platform I was elected to represent the good people of Cross River North Senatorial District.

“The decision came after deep and thoughtful reflection on the current state of my former party.

“It is with regret that I note the persistent and deep-seated divisions and the deliberate factionalisation at both the national and state levels as the primary reasons for my departure.”

Jarigbe noted that he decided to align with the ruling party to continue delivering effective representation to his constituents, said, “In the light of the foregoing, and in the best interest of my constituents, I have chosen to join the All Progressives Congress.

“I believe that under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu and the steady guidance of the National Assembly, the APC provides a stable and progressive platform to deliver the democratic dividends expected by the people of Cross River North.”

Barau welcomed Jarigbe into the party, saying, “You are most welcome. Please welcome him,” as APC Senators applauded.

With Jarigbe’s defection , all the Senators in Cross River State that include Eteng Williams (Cross River Central) and Asuquo Ekpenyong (Cross River South), have now defected to the APC.

The configuration of Senators in the Senate across political parties is now as follow: APC 76; PDP 25; Labour Party, LP 4; All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA 2; New Nigeria Peoples Party, NNPP 1; and Social Democratic Party, SDP 1, totaling 109.

Aftermath Of Fatal Accident: Uzodinma Slams Indefinite Suspension On Key State Agency

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Suleiman Anyalewechi

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November 11, 2025

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By Suleiman Anyalewechi

Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodinma has directed the immediate and indefinite suspension of the operations of the state-owned Environmental Transformation Commission ENTRACO.

The suspension order was sequel to a terrible accident on Monday November 10, 2025, close to St Mulumba Catholic Church on Akachi Road involving officials of the agency.

The heart-stoppinh accident which sparked outrage occurred during an enforcement operation by ENTRACO personnel. It claimed two lives in a very gruesome manner – a motorcyclist and his passenger.

Expectedly, the horrifying incident which gained traction on the social media, provoked widespread indignation and condemnation, with not a few condemning the unprofessional activities of the agency officials.

The Governor’s directives for the agency’s activities to be paused was contained in a statement issued Monday night by his media aide Oguwike Nwachuku.

However, before the Governor’s reaction, the agency had earlier in the day in a statement from its Director of Operations , Ifeanyi Nwokedi, informed that the official believed to be responsible for the accident has been handed over to the police for necessary investigation and action.

Governor Uzodinma in the statement, expressed serious concern over the growing controversies and complains trailing the activities of the agency’s officials in recent times.

However,the Governor cautioned against the temptation by residents to capitalize on and or misinterprete the suspension of the activities of the agency to be a license for the abuse of traffic, environmental and other related laws.

He warned that the full weight of the law would be visited on defaulters of all extant traffic and environmental guidelines in the state.

The statement reads:

“Effective immediately, Governor Hope Uzodimma has suspended all activities connected to the operations of Imo State Environmental Transformation Commission (ENTRACO) till further notice.

“He did on Monday, November 10, 2025, following report of an incident that occurred in Owerri, linked to ENTRACO operations, which claimed the life of a person and left another in critical situation in the hospital.

“Governor Uzodimma said he was not unmindful of other recent ugly incidents where the mode of operations of ENTRACO was brought to question by members of the public.

“However, the Governor warned that immediate suspension of ENTRACO operations is not a license for members of the public to take traffic, environmental, and other laws into their hands as those found to be in violation of such laws will pay dearly for it.”

UK Rates Anambra Gov. Poll Better Than Previous Ones

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Ayodele Oni

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November 11, 2025

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By Ayodele Oni

The United Kingdom, (UK) Observers Group which monitored last Saturday’s governorship election in Anambra state has submitted that the poll witnessed an improvement over previous ones conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

In a congratulatory message to Governor Charles Soludo that won the election, the British High Commission in Abuja lauded voters in Anambra State for their participation in the November 8 governorship election and hailed Prof Soludo on his re-election as governor.

In a statement, the Commission welcomed the largely peaceful and orderly conduct of the election, commending the INEC, security agencies, and other stakeholders for their roles.

“Our team of observers witnessed notable improvements in the electoral process, particularly the timely opening of most polling centres, the effective use of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS), and efforts to improve transparency through INEC’s Results Viewing Portal (IREV),” the statement said.

The British High Commission also praised INEC’s commitment to an inclusive election, especially for people with disabilities, and encouraged continued collaboration to build on these gains ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections.

While welcoming the increase in voter turnout compared with the 2021 governorship polls, the Commission noted that overall participation remains low.

It called on political actors, institutions, and civil society groups to take steps to boost voter engagement in future elections.

However, the UK expressed concern over widespread reports of vote trading, describing it as a practice that erodes public confidence and undermines democracy, urging all stakeholders to address the issue urgently.

It added that the United Kingdom would continue working with INEC, partners, and civil society to support the delivery of peaceful, transparent, inclusive, and credible elections in Nigeria.

Ondo Not Financially Involved In Refinery Project, Only Provides Land – APC

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Ayodele Oni

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November 11, 2025

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By Ayodele Oni

The All Progressives Congress (APC), in Ondo Ondo State, has clarified that the state government participation in the proposed $50 billion Sunshine Free Trade Zone and Refinery Project is limited only to provision of land for the project.

The party, while shedding more light on the project, explained that it is necessary to set the record straight and prevent well-meaning citizens and Nigerians at large from being misled by misinformation currently being circulated regarding the proposed Project.

The party pointed out that It is unfortunate that, instead of applauding a major industrial breakthrough capable of transforming Ondo’s economy, some individuals have chosen to indulge in baseless speculation.

APC Director, Media & Publicity, Steve Otaloro in a statement on Tuesday stated that “Let it be clearly stated that the Ondo State Government is not committing taxpayers’ money to this project.

“The proposed investment is entirely private-sector–driven. The investors are providing the funding and assuming all financial risks. The only contribution from the state government is the provision of land a standard practice globally for projects of this scale and significance, particularly one with enormous potential for job creation, infrastructure development, and long-term economic growth.

“Therefore, the question of any financial burden on the state or its citizens simply does not arise. If credible investors are ready to commit their resources to industrialise our state, this should be a matter of celebration, not suspicion.

“Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has demonstrated transparency and foresight in his determination to open up Ondo State for investment, create employment opportunities for our youth, and diversify the state’s economy away from over dependence on federal allocation. These are bold and commendable steps that every patriotic citizen should support.

“It is worrisome that some commentators appear more eager to ridicule innovative ideas than to verify facts.

“This same culture of cynicism and hesitation cost Ondo State the opportunity to host the Dangote Refinery, which was initially proposed to be sited here before being relocated to Lagos due to unnecessary bureaucracy and public doubt. Today, Lagos is reaping the rewards, while the sceptics remain trapped in regret.

“To those quick to raise alarm over this project, let us pose a few simple questions:

Is Ondo State borrowing any money for this project? No.
Are the investors credible enough to take on their own risks? Yes.
Will Ondo State lose anything if the project fails to proceed? Absolutely not.

“Until verifiable evidence proves otherwise, we urge the public not to give traction to one-sided reports fabricated by individuals who neither verified facts with the government nor engaged the investors involved. Responsible reporting requires balance, not baseless insinuations.

“The APC Ondo State Chapter therefore commends Governor Aiyedatiwa for his commitment to attracting large-scale investment to the state. Development cannot thrive in an atmosphere of fear and cynicism. It requires bold leadership, open-mindedness, and collective support.

“We call on all well-meaning citizens to focus on what truly matters the promise of industrial growth, employment for our youth, and a more prosperous future for the Sunshine State. Let us unite behind the governor’s vision and allow progress to speak louder than propaganda.”

Lamido, Fmr Jigawa Gov. Gets Court’s Nod To Stop PDP Convention

By

Ayodele Oni

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November 11, 2025

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By Ayodele Oni

Former Governor of Jigawa state, Sule Lamido, has got the court’s nod to stop the National Convention of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), scheduled to hold in Ibadan, Oyo state between November 15 and 16.

The judgement coming for the second time, from a Federal High Court in Abuja, restrained the PDP from holding its 2025 National Convention as scheduled.

The court also barred the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from supervising, monitoring or recognizing the outcome of the National Convention where national officers are expected to be elected.

Justice Peter Odo Lifu on Tuesday issued the fresh order while delivering ruling in an application brought by Lamido.

Lamido, a foundation member of PDP had dragged the party before the court complaining that he was denied opportunity to buy Chairmanship nomination form to enable him participate in the convention.

The judge predicated the restriction order against PDP on the grounds that the party refused, neglected and failed to comply with relevant conditions and laws for the conduct of such conventions.

The judge held that evidence from Lamido showed that the timetable for the convention was not published for the attention of its members as required by law.

Justice lifu also held that the balance of convenience tilted towards Lamido because he would suffer more if allowed to be unlawfully excluded from the planned convention.

To make remedy, the Judge said that the former governor had undertaken to pay damages to PDP in the event that his suit was found to be frivolous.

According to the Judge, it is a Constitutional that due process of law must be strictly followed by those in charge adding that to do otherwise, will endanger democracy itself.

He also said that in line with section 6 of the 1999 Constitution, court of law must not abdicate its role of dispensing justice without fear or favour.

Justice Lifu held that anarchy would be the order of the day anything, anyday and anywhere the court of record abdicate its Constitution assigned functions.

NIMASA Advocates Effective Port Security For Safer Shipping

By

James Orji

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November 11, 2025

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The Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, Dr. Dayo Mobereola has noted that effective Port State Control (PSC) is one of the most potent tools of ensuring global safety and maintenance of environmental standards in shipping.

Mobereola who said this at a 5-day Regional Train the Trainer Workshop on Port State Control (PSC) for Member States of the Abuja Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), with the support of the International Maritime Organization, IMO further emphasized that the quality of the professionals who implement PSC determines its overall success.

Represented by the Executive Director, Operations, Engr. Fatai Taiye Adeyemi, the DG described the workshop as a reflection of Africa’s shared commitment to safer, cleaner, and more efficient shipping.

“Your presence here demonstrates our collective resolve to strengthen efficient maritime governance, improve safety standards, and enhance environmental protection across West and Central Africa,” he stated.

The DG commended the IMO, the Abuja MoU Secretariat, and all technical partners for their continued support towards capacity-building, regional cooperation, and the promotion of maritime safety in Africa.

Delivering a goodwill message, the representative of the IMO, Captain Ahmed Sewelam, reaffirmed the Organization’s unwavering commitment to supporting Member States through its technical cooperation programme to strengthen effective and harmonized Port State Control regimes globally.

“Effective regional cooperation and harmonized PSC practices are essential to eliminate substandard shipping and promote consistency across the region,” Captain Sewelam said.

He explained that the workshop provides a unique platform for delegates to strengthen their collective capacity as Port States, while discussing key elements such as inspection procedures, reporting, and strategies for improved performance noting that “together, we can strengthen Port State Control implementation and advance maritime safety and sustainability in the region”.

On his part, the Secretary General of the Abuja MoU, Captain Sunday Umoren, reiterated that capacity building remains a top priority of the Abuja MoU. He noted that effective Flag State control directly influences the quality of Port State Control operations, emphasizing the importance of strong national systems.

“We must continue to build capacity, strengthen cooperation, and share experiences to ensure that our region maintains high standards of maritime safety and compliance,” he said.

The Train-the-Trainer Workshop on Port State Control under the Abuja MoU represents another milestone in NIMASA’s ongoing efforts to strengthen maritime safety, promote environmental protection, and consolidate Nigeria’s leadership role in advancing regional maritime development.

The workshop, which is being held in Lagos, has brought together delegates from 22 countries across West and Central Africa to deepen capacity, harmonize standards, and strengthen maritime safety oversight across the region.

2027: Tinubu Not Invincible, Can Be Defeated- Amaechi

By

Tosin Olatokunbo

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November 11, 2025

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Rotimi Amaechi and Bola Tinubu2 — Rotimi Amaechi and President Bola Tinubu

Former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi has bemoaned the voter apathy among Nigerians, asserting that the problem could enable President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to stay in office beyond 2027.

He spoke amid complaints by civil society’s groups in the country that voter apathy marred last Saturday’s Governorship election in Anambra state, won by the incumbent Governor Soludo.

The ruling All Progressives Congress, APC has declared Tinubu as its sole candidate for the next presidential election, and the president has been consulting on his re-election bid.

But Amaechi, a member of the African Democratic Congress, ADC has urged Nigerians to vote en mass during the election, to ensure that Tinubu is defeated, and not allowed to come back to power, saying the only way to do this is for Nigerians to turn out massively during the election.

he also urged opposition parties in the country to put their acts together if they want to send Tinubu packing from Aso Rock, Nigeria’s Presidency.

The former Minister had recently declared his interest to contest against Tinubu in the next presidential election.

The former Rivers state governor spoke on Monday at the fifth anniversary lecture of First Daily newspaper held in Abuja, the nation’s capital on Monday, with the theme; ‘2027: How can we make our votes count?’

According to him, the fate of Tinubu as second term president will be determined by Nigeria’s turn out in the election, he also the governmet against electoral malpractice, urging Nigerians to ensure that they take control of the process by particpating actively in the election. 1 / 0:39

Amaechi: “The first solution to electoral reform is not the government. The people are the problem. The more you say they have written the results, the more you have voter apathy. Voter apathy will make President Bola Tinubu return to Villa.”

“Tell the people the power is in your hands. Come out. If Tinubu is that invincible, how was he defeated in Lagos?

“It can be repeated but first and foremost you must agree that the man there is not invincible. The problem is the opposition.”

Amaechi was among the APC presidential aspirants defeated by Tinubu in the party’s presidential primary. He has since became one of the ardent critics of the president.