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Tinubu Not Interested In Tackling Insecurity, Soldiers Sent To Battle With Empty Riffles- Lawal

November 11, 2025

Babachir Lawal, a former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, SGF has knocked the Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration of incapable of tackling insecurity in the country. He said his government has performed abysmally in the area of keeping the country safe.

The former federal government scribe said Tinubu’s predecessors, Goodluck Jonathan and Muhammadu Buhari showed capacity in tackling the security problems headlong, saying the problem has worsen under the incumbent.

Lawal spoke on Channels Television ‘Politics Today’ on Monday amid worries among Nigeria and international community of the spate of violence across the country particularly in the north, where bandits and Boko Haram terrorists are killing Nigerians.

The spate of insecurity in the country drew the attention of the United States, US President Donald Trump recently when when accused the federal government of incapacity in tackling the problem, particularly the alleged Christians genocide. The US leader had threatened to use military force against Nigeria if the government failed to take action.

The former SGF said his state Adamawa had experienced serious insecurity since Tinubu came to office, saying civilians and soldiers are now being killed at will by the terrorists, who also sack communities after attacking them.

“Past governments were better, more accommodating. They served Nigerians better in the sense of equity, intention to fight corruption, and being fair and just.

“Even in the sense of insecurity, Goodluck Jonathan fought insecurity. Buhari took over and did; this government is not interested in that,” he said.

He questioned the president and National Security Adviser, NSA Nuhu Ribadu’s ability to rein in the worsening insecurity problem in the country, saying the situation has got worse since the incumbent took over power in 2023.

Lawal: “I don’t see what work he [Ribadu] is doing. If I see what work he is doing, I will tell you.

“If I see results of what they are doing, I will say it. It won’t hurt me.

“I know soldiers are out there, some are losing their lives, quite a lot of them are from my community who have come back dead. I know them.

“Why are they losing their lives? Because the system that ought to support them has failed.

“When you send the soldier into the battle with an old, antiquated rifle that can only hold 20 ammunition and is facing an enemy that has one kilometre of bullets, you shoot one, it jams.”

Lawal was SGF under the administration of President Buhari but was later sacked from office over alleged corruption.

Anambra Polls: Ekwunife Congratulates Governor Soludo, Her Principal, Ukachukwu Rejects Outcome

Suleiman Anyalewechi

November 10, 2025

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Deputy Governorship candidate of the All Progressive Congress APC in the just concluded Anambra’ state off-circle gubernatorial polls, Senator Uche Ekwunife, on Monday, October 10, 2025, congratulated Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo’ on his re-election for a second term in office.

However, the congratulatory message is coming against the backdrop of the rejection of the outcome of the election by the APC Governorship Candidate, Prince Nicolas Ukachukwu.

The Source reports that, Governor Soludo was on Sunday October 9,2025 declared winner of the November 8,polls ,by the Independent National Electoral Commission INEC.

But almost all his opponents, including the APC candidate have described the election and its outcome as totally unacceptable.

In a statement personally signed by her, the APC Governorship running mate, also appreciated her supporters for their resilience and commitment before and during the election.

Senator Ekwunife thanked Prince Ukachukwu, members of the APC campaign team, and others who in one way or the other showed faith in their vision for a better Anambra’ state.

In her message, she urged all stakeholders to rally behind the Governor now that the election is over in the collective interest of Anambra’ state.

Senator Ekwunife emphasized the need to sustain the peace, progress, and unity of Anambra state by all citizens.

“I extend my warm congratulations to His Excellency, Prof. Charles Chukwuma Soludo, on his victory and re-election for a second term.

“When Anambra succeeds, we all succeed. I encourage everyone to join hands to build a stronger and more prosperous state.

“My appreciation goes to the young people who trooped out on the election day, the mothers who prayed through the nights and every individual who shared in the vision for a better Anambra .Your passion reflected that politics can indeed be about people and purpose.

“Though the election outcome may not have been what we desired, I am profoundly proud of the efforts we put into this race .

“I am humbled by the outpouring of love and support we received ,which is a victory of faith, unity and hope that no ballot can erase” Ekwunife stated.

However, while reacting to the election’s outcome on Monday,the APC candidate Ukachukwu, described the exercise as a sham.

He insisted that the polls were generally marred by intimidation, and attacks on his supporters, most of whom were seriously injured.

Prince Ukachukwu informed that he is presently consulting with his supporters, party stakeholders, and others with a view to determining the next line of action.

The APC candidate polled 99,000 votes to place second, behind Governor Soludo.

It is not known yet why Senator Ekwunife threaded a different path from the Governorship Candidate over the election outcome.

Sir, Bring The Public Spat To An End

The Source

November 10, 2025

By Isaac Asabor

An Open Letter To Senator. Senator Ned Nwoko : “Public family spat hardly produce winners. They produce scars”

Dear Hon. Prince Ned Nwoko,

I write this open letter to you, sir, not with any intention of intruding into your private affairs, but as a concerned Nigerian who has followed your public life with deep respect and admiration. I have always regarded you as a man of honour, intellect, and influence, and an achiever who has made his mark both in politics and philanthropy. You have been a strong voice for Anioma people and a tireless advocate for the creation of Anioma State. You have also continued to distinguish yourself as a lawmaker of uncommon vision and dedication to the people of Delta North Senatorial District in the National Assembly, who you currently serve, and the people of Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency who you ably represented at the House of Representatives, from 1999 to 2003

It is precisely because of this high regard that I find it necessary to address you at this delicate moment. What has been trending across social media platforms and making rounds in the news about your reported feud with your wife and your in-laws has been disheartening.

The tone, content, and frequency of these reports are not palatable. They not only cast shadows on your personal life but, unfortunately, also spill into the public’s perception of your character as a respected statesman.

In every man’s life, no matter how powerful, wealthy, or influential, moments arise that test his patience, humility, and wisdom. It is during such times that one’s true character is revealed.

The ongoing public spat, as the reports suggest, is one of such moments. And I write today to humbly urge you, as one who has long stood tall in leadership and public life, to bring this situation to an end.

There is an age-old truth, Sir, that nothing under the sun lasts forever, neither joy nor pain, neither triumphs nor conflict. Even the Bible affirms this in Ecclesiastes 3:1, which says, “To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven.” This, I believe, is the time for peace. It is the season to lay down whatever grievances may exist and seek reconciliation, for there is no glory in prolonging a feud, especially one that plays out before the watching eyes of millions.

You are a man many young Nigerians look up to, not only because of your affluence or political status, but because you represent the possibility of turning privilege into public good. Through your advocacy for Anioma State, your legislative initiatives, and your philanthropic projects, you have shown that power, when rightly used, can be a tool for progress. But even the greatest leaders are ultimately remembered more for their humanity than their titles.

It is in this light that I appeal to you to take the bold and noble path of reconciliation. As Scripture reminds us in Matthew 5:9, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God.” There is divine honour in being a peacemaker, particularly within one’s family.

Your home, Sir, should be your strongest fortress, your most reliable refuge, and the place from which you draw strength to lead others. When peace reigns there, everything else aligns.

It is true that every marriage faces storms. Differences, misunderstandings, and emotional strains are part of human relationships. However, what distinguishes a wise man from the rest is how he responds to conflict. The Book of Proverbs 15:1 reminds us that “A soft answer turneth away wrath, but grievous words stir up anger.”

You have the wisdom, composure, and spiritual depth to apply that principle now. You have faced tougher battles in the political arena, where egos, interests, and rivalries often collide. Surely, with that same grace and patience, you can also mend the walls of your home.

Sir, allow me to state this truth plainly: public family disputes rarely have winners. What they produce are scars, emotional for those involved and reputational for those in the public eye. The comments, ridicule, and online arguments currently surrounding this issue are not befitting of your legacy. They are distractions that threaten to overshadow your great works. But the beauty of life, and indeed of leadership, is that one act of humility can erase a thousand missteps.

Find a way, sir, to wipe off the footprints of this saga from the social media landscape. The same platforms that now host unpleasant stories about you can, in due time, host stories of your forgiveness, unity, and renewed peace. Let the headlines change from tales of division to news of reconciliation. Nigerians are quick to criticize, yes, but they are equally quick to celebrate when someone shows the courage to do what is right.

Your Excellency, as a man of vision, you know that power and prestige are transient. What endure is integrity, humility, and peace of mind. It is easy to build houses, wealth, and empires; but building peace requires spiritual depth and self-control. Romans 12:18 wisely counsels: “If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.” This divine instruction is even more relevant when the “men” in question are members of one’s own family.

Please reach out to your wife. Reconnect with your in-laws. Let forgiveness pave the way for restoration. The world has seen enough of strife, especially in homes that once symbolized unity and success. And remember, reconciliation is not a sign of weakness. It is, in fact, the greatest expression of strength. It takes a humble man to extend a hand of peace when pride would prefer retaliation.

I am reminded of Colossians 3:13, which exhorts us to “bear with one another and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” This verse is not for the faint-hearted; it is for the strong, the kind of strength you have displayed in public life time and again. You have forgiven political opponents, critics, and detractors in the past. Surely, the same grace can be extended to those within your immediate circle.

Sir, it is never too late to restore what has been broken. In fact, the true test of leadership begins at home. By reconciling and restoring peace, you would not only heal personal wounds but also inspire many Nigerians who are struggling with their own family conflicts. You would become a living example that no matter how far relationships drift, love and understanding can still find a way.

Let this moment serve as a turning point. Let peace reign once again in your home. Let those who once spread gossips about the feud begin to share stories of forgiveness and restoration. Let those who mocked begin to marvel at the maturity with which you handle this issue. And above all, let the younger generation see that even in moments of difficulty, humility and wisdom remain the highest forms of strength.

Your political journey, philanthropic works, and legislative record already speak volumes of your achievements. But this, sir, could be your greatest legacy yet, not a bill passed in the Senate, not a project commissioned, but the healing of a home and the preservation of your name.

As Psalm 133:1 beautifully declares, “Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity.” That is the peace I wish for you and your family today. May God grant you the discernment to know what to do, the grace to do it, and the peace that follows reconciliation.

With all due respect, sir, I implore you to take this step. End this feud, reconcile with your wife and in-laws, and allow the light of understanding to shine again in your home. You have been a builder of communities, now be the builder of peace in your family.

May wisdom guide your heart, peace return to your household, and grace continue to crown your path.

Respectfully,
Isaac Asabor
(Journalist and Public Affairs Commentator)

Timipre Sylva, Fmr Minister, Fmr. Bayelsa Gov., Declared Wanted By EFCC

Akinwale Kasali

November 10, 2025

By Ayodele Oni, Suleiman Anyalewechi & Akinwale Kasali

Timipere Sylva, immediate past Minister for State, Ministry of Petroleum Resources, has been declared wanted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC. He occupied the Ministerial position under the late President Muhammadu Buhari.

Sylva is, also, a former Governor of Bayelsa State.

The Commission declared him wanted over an alleged case of conspiracy and dishonest conversion of US$14,859,257.

The EFCC, in a public notice on Monday, released by its spokesman, Dele Oyewale, said the funds were provided by the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board for Atlantic International Refinery and Petrochemical.

The full text reads:

“The public is hereby notified that TIMIPRE SYLVA, a former Minister of State, Petroleum Resources, and former Governor of Bayelsa State, whose photograph appears above is wanted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in an alleged case of Conspiracy and Dishonest Conversion of $14,859,257-part of funds injected by the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) into Atlantic International Refinery and Petrochemical Limited for the construction of a Refinery.

“Sylva, 61, is from Brass Local Government Area of Bayelsa State. This notice is pursuant to a November 6, 2025, warrant of the Lagos State High Court.

“Anybody with useful information as to his whereabouts should please contact the Commission in its Ibadan, Uyo, Sokoto, Maiduguri, Benin, Makurdi, Kaduna, Ilorin, Enugu, Kano, Lagos, Gombe, Port Harcourt, or Abuja offices or through 08093322644; its e-mail address: [email protected] or the nearest Police Station and other security agencies.”

Since May 29, 2023, when President Bola Tinubu was sworn into office as President, Sylva has not been involved in any Government or Political Party affairs, especially, as he, also, failed in his bid to clinch the Governorship seat of Bayelsa State for the second time.

Prior to that, he had declared interest in the office of the President in 2023, and was all set to take part in the Presidential Primaries when he suddenly lost interest and continued in his Ministerial job.

However, he suddenly became front page news in the past one month when his name was linked to an alleged aborted Coup Plot aimed at overthrowing the President Tinubu Government.

The Defence Headquarters denied there was such a plan, and explained that the arrested Military Officers are in detention because of other sundry issues not connected with a Coup Plot.

However, it failed to explain why Sylva’s Abuja residence was raided by soldiers who, according to Sylva, arrested his driver and his (Sylva’s) younger brother. He also said the soldiers destroyed his property. The arrested two are reportedly still in detention.

Accusing fingers point at him as, allegedly, the sponsor of the alleged aborted Coup plot.

Sylva, who is currently, out of the country with his wife, vehemently denies any link to any Coup Plot.

On why he is outside the Country, he said he was in the United Kingdom for a routine medical check-up but would proceed to Malaysia from there for “a professional conference”.

The EFCC declaring him wanted adds a very ugly twist to the Coup allegation.

Sylva was of the Peoples Democratic Party, Party, PDP, under which he was Governor of Bayelsa State.

But, he defected to the All Progressives Congress, APC, when nothing was going on well with him in the PDP.

Sylva is the second Bayelsa indigene who has entered into trouble with the EFCC after occupying the office of a Minister in the Petroleum Resources Ministry. The first was Deziani Allison-Madueke , a full Minister for Petroleum Resources under President Goodluck Jonathan.

She has been in self-exile in the UK since after Jonathan, and from there, battling all kinds of allegations against her by the EFCC – all connected to the office she held.

Six Senior Civil Servants Kidnapped On Way To CBT Exams

Akinwale Kasali

November 10, 2025

By Akinwale Kasali

There is disquiet in the Ministry of Defence as six Senior Civil Servants were kidnapped in Kabba, Kogi State by suspected terrorists on Sunday while traveling by road to Abuja for the 2025 Directorate Promotion Exam.

The Examination, a Computer Based Test, CBT, was made compulsory for the Civil Servants.

It was gathered that the suspected terrorists ambushed two vehicles including the one conveying the Civil Servants at an abandoned road construction site and made away with an undisclosed number of passengers while ransom is already being demanded.

Three of the kidnapped civil servants are staff of the Ministry of Defence who were traveling with other colleagues from Lagos to Abuja for the Computer Based Test.

Following this development, the Ministry of Defence Chapter of the Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria in a notice circulated to members described the incident as sad and very disturbing, lamenting the policy change to hold the promotion test in Abuja and not zonal centres as earlier envisaged.

The association expressed regrets that some of its members are at the receiving end of the decision of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation to hold the directorate promotion exams in Abuja despite the fact that the Computer Based Test (CBT) can easily be done anywhere in the country as earlier touted before the sudden change.

Before now, some participants in the exercise had expressed displeasure with the authorities for reversing the decentralization of the promotion exams.

They queried the rationale behind asking candidates to travel from all parts of the country to Abuja to write a computer-based test that can be decentralized.

Sources who craved anonymity said,

“Imagine traveling on our bad roads 12-14 hours from Lagos to Abuja one way to write a test of one hour.

“Returning is the same duration and experience. Those who may chose to fly are spending an average of Four Hundred Thousand Naira to and fro and you have not even included accommodation and sundry expenses.

“The whole scenario is painful and unbearable. There are those who have been coming to Abuja since 2018 to write exams four to five times for the same grade level. Every year you hear there is no vacancy for promotion. Yet the process is not decentralized.

“For those who have been kidnapped unfortunately, can you imagine the trauma their families will go through? Something needs to be done to eliminate the trauma,” the Senior Civil Servant emphasized.

It was also gathered that some civil servants in previous years had lost their lives in road accidents while on their way to Abuja for the centralized promotion exams.

Before this unfortunate kidnap incident, it would be recalled that the

Federal Civil Service Commission had, in a press release, solicited understanding from the candidates.

It also expressed hope that the examinations will, over the time, be decentralized.

A statement signed by Taiwo Hassan said, “As the Commission leverages on JAMB facilities for the conduct of the 2025 Directorate Levels CBT examination, we are not only concerned about the credibility and transparency of the process, but also the convenience of the candidates, hence, the commencement of the first run exercise at JAMB Centres in the FCT.

“Following feedback from the public, the Commission wishes to assure all candidates that it will consider the possibility of decentralizing the examination centres across the 36 States and FCT, using other technology-enabled innovations to make the process seamless for future examinations.

Hassan’s statement on behalf of the Commission’s Chairman reads in full:

“Federal Civil Service Commission solicits Candidates’ understanding on the 2025 Directorate CBT Promotion Examinations

“The Federal Civil Service Commission (FCSC) informs the candidates sitting for the 2025 Directorates Level Promotion Examination that the Commission is aware of the inconveniences they may go through while preparing for the CBT promotion examinations.

“The recent social media publication on this matter is duly noted by the Commission. However, as with most innovations, there may be some gaps. Transition from manual examinations to CBT comes with its attendant hurdles both for FCSC and the candidates.

“As the Commission leverages on JAMB facilities for the conduct of the 2025 Directorate Levels CBT examination, we are not only concerned about the credibility and transparency of the process, but also the convenience of the candidates, hence, the commencement of the first run exercise at JAMB Centres in the FCT.

Edo: Gov. Okpebholo Decries Lack Of Transparency In Handling MOWAA Project By Previous Govt

Ayodele Oni

November 10, 2025

By Ayodele Oni

As controversy over Museum of West African Art (MOWAA), being sited in Benin City, Edo state rages, Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has revealed that some European diplomats sneaked to the state in respect of the project without informing him.

The Governor expressed surprise and concern over the recent visit of the European diplomats to Benin City for activities linked to the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA), stating that his administration was not informed about the visit.

Okpebholo made this disclosure on Monday while receiving a high-level European delegation, including EU Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Gautier Mignot, and German Ambassador, Dr. Annett Günther at the Government House, Benin City.

He later accompanied the envoys to the Palace of the Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, where discussions centered on cultural collaboration and the ongoing controversy surrounding MOWAA.

Speaking at the palace, Governor Okpebholo decried the “lack of transparency” that has clouded the MOWAA project from its inception.

“Honestly, I wasn’t aware that such a gathering was going to take place. We have now heard from His Royal Majesty and will get to the bottom of this matter.”

The Governor revealed that his administration has set up a committee to investigate MOWAA and make recommendations to the government, emphasizing that the project had been handled without proper consultation or disclosure.

“The controversy surrounding MOWAA stems from the lack of openness by the previous government. It is curious how the project evolved from the Benin Royal Museum to the Edo Museum of West African Art (EMOWAA), and now to MOWAA, without clarity or consultation with our revered traditional institution.”

Okpebholo lamented that he inherited no documentation, financial records, or formal briefing on the project from the previous administration, led by former Governor Godwin Obaseki, describing the situation as “deeply troubling.”

The Governor also condemned the demolition of the historic Central Hospital in Benin City to make way for MOWAA, questioning the rationale behind replacing a critical health facility with a cultural project.

“Why destroy a functioning hospital to build a museum? We are proud of our heritage, but development must be responsible and people-centred.”

Governor Okpebholo reaffirmed that while his administration welcomes international partnerships, transparency, accountability, and respect for Benin traditions remain non-negotiable.

“Edo people are peace-loving and welcoming, but we will not condone secrecy or any act that undermines our culture and institutions,” he declared.

Governor Okpebholo assured the monarch and the people of Edo State that his administration would act with fairness, transparency, and respect for traditional authority.

“Edo belongs to us all. Its culture, history, and heritage must be protected, not politicized,” he concluded.

During the visit, EU Ambassador Gautier Mignot clarified that while the European Union has no direct financial investment in MOWAA, some EU member states, including Germany, have supported aspects of the initiative.

“We exchanged views in a spirit of dialogue and partnership. Our aim is to strengthen cooperation with Edo State and ensure peace and transparency in all engagements.”

German Ambassador Dr. Annett Günther commended the Edo State Government and the Benin Palace for their hospitality, reaffirming Germany’s longstanding collaboration with the state in migration management, youth empowerment, and cultural preservation.

“Germany has returned over 1,200 Benin Bronzes to Nigeria. Cultural heritage can only flourish in a peaceful and transparent environment.”

At the Oba’s Palace, Oba Ewuare II expressed dismay over the manner in which the MOWAA project was executed, accusing the former governor of attempting to “mortgage the rights of the Benin people” over their ancestral artefacts.

“My forefathers suffered during the British invasion of 1897, and it is not fair that this is happening again,” the Oba said. “The documents they brought for me to sign would have taken away our rights, and I refused.”

Catholic Church, Tivs Lament Mass Killings Of Christians In Taraba State; Call For Federal Government Intervention

Suleiman Anyalewechi

November 10, 2025

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Catholic Church has called on the Federal Government and Taraba state authorities to rise up to their responsibilities and halt the renewed wave of violent attacks and destructions being visited on many Communities by suspected killer- herdsmen in the Southern part of the State.

This is as the Tiv community in the State, decried the displacement of no fewer than 1000 families, and destruction of properties and farmlands worth several millions of naira by some terrorist elements in the last one week.

At an interactive session with the media on Monday, October 10, 2025 in Jalingo, the State Capital, the Director of Social Communication for the Catholic Diocese of Wukari, Rev Father John Laikel, described as disheartening and devastating, the spate of killings ongoing in many of the Communities under the Diocese.

According to him, many members of the Catholic family have been forced to abandon their homes and means of livelihood, owing to the orgy of violent attacks and killings being unleashed on them.

” It is disheartening that attacks on innocent citizens keep happening despite Government promises to stop the development.

“The pattern of attacks in Southern Taraba shows a deliberate and calculated attempt by Fulani herdsmen to permanently take over these communities for grazing.

“Most victims are returnees who have only recently resettled after earlier displacement”, he stated .

Fr Laikel noted that the attackers, after razing homes and destroying properties of their victims, proceed to be grazing on the farmlands, a development which he insisted, is glaringly suggestive of the devilish intention to occupy the Communities permanently.

He, therefore, urged the authorities, both at the state and Federal levels to wake up to their constitutional responsibilities of protecting lives and properties of the citizens.

The Catholic spokesperson further lamented the nonchalant and even compromising attitude of security agencies in combating insecurity in the affected Communities.

According to him, most of the attacks and killings occur despite the people duly informing security operatives before hand

” When we alert security agencies,they often complain about lack of adequate personnel and logistics.

” Meanwhile, innocent people are being killed daily, villages are being burnt, and survivors are left with horrific injuries. It is heartbreaking to see such disregard for human life”, Rev Father George Dogo, the Parish Priest of Holy Family Catholic Church, Takum, noted.

The Taraba Tiv Youth Development Forum, in a statement jointly issued by Torkuma Lupet Moses and Uko Moses Wuaga, President and Secretary, respectively, called on the Federal Government, in conjunction with the Taraba State authorities to urgently consider the establishment of more military and other security outposts in the affected communities to arrest the senseless attacks and killings of innocent citizens.

The Forum similarly urged the authorities to put adequate machineries in place to halt the incessant conflicts between farmers and herders in Taraba state .

“We also call on the Government to arrest the perpetrators of the violence and killings and their sponsors to face justice.

“Governor Agbu Kefas should facilitate a peace summit between Tiv and Fulani leaders to address lingering grievances”, the Forum stated .

Two Aspirants Lay Claim To Ekiti SDP Gov. Ticket, Party Says Bankole Recognized

Ayodele Oni

November 10, 2025

By Ayodele Oni

Aftermath of the governorship primary election which was held last Saturday in Ekiti state, choice of a governorship candidate by the Social Democratic Party, (SDP) in Ekiti state ahead next year’s election has caused division within the party.

It was gathered that two parallel primary election was held last week by the SDP with each producing a candidate.

The two candidates now laying claim to the governorship ticket are Adedayo Alade and David Bankole.

The State leadership of the party however, seems to have thrown its weight behind Bankole describing him as the best for the party for now.

The party had earlier issued a statement to disown Alade, describing him as a usurper describing the primary which produced him as “illegal, null and void”.

The party explained that the primary was conducted by individuals suspended by the National Working Committee (NWC) of the party, which contravened the party’s constitution.

“The Ekiti State SDP and its Chairman, Hon Bamikole Ayodele, wish to dissociate themselves from the purported primary conducted by these impostors.”

Prince Afolayan Adewale

SDP Ekiti State Assistant Publicity Secretary who signed the statement stated that “We heard that the kangaroo primary was conducted in an apartment in Ijadu Area, Ado Ekiti, and the location is unknown to INEC and security agencies.

“The party emphasized that Ambassador Alade is not a registered member of the SDP, and therefore, not a legitimate candidate.

“The party has warned him to desist from using the party’s name or logo, and has urged security agencies to arrest and prosecute anyone found parading himself as an SDP candidate, apart from Engr Bankole David Oludele who was dully elected and announced by the party as it candidate to represent the party in the 2026 gubernatorial election.

“We hereby declare the purported primary that produced Ambassador Adedayo Alade null and void, and urge our members and supporters to ignore it.

“We remain committed to conducting free, fair, and transparent elections that reflect the will of our members.

Also reacting to the issue on Monday, chairman of SDP primary election committee, Gabriel Akintoye, explained that Bankole emerged as the SDP governorship candidate in the party’s primary election held on Saturday after two other aspirants, Mr. Peter Adesina and Mrs. Adesola Dada, stepped down for him.

Akinloye, who declared Bankole winner of the primaries, commended the sportsmanship of the two other aspirants and urged them to work with the party’s candidate to ensure victory during the governorship poll.

He said, “SDP has produced a candidate with the virile, versatile, and transformative ability to improve Ekiti State. Engr. Bankole is known for his creativity and transformative ability to reshape Ekiti State.”

The SDP chieftain, who said that the SDP’s principle of justice, equity, and transparency guided the party’s primary process, added, “We are confident that Bankole is the best candidate to lead Ekiti State in 2026.”

Olufemi Ajadi Dumps NNPP For PDP, Says Move Strategic In Rebuilding Nigeria

Akinwale Kasali

November 10, 2025

By Akinwale Kasali

Olufemi Ajadi, former Governorship Candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party, NNPP, in Ogun State, have resigned from the Party.

Ajadi dumped the NNPP for the embattled Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, saying the move is strategic and a patriotic step to rebuild Nigeria’s unity and restore national hope.

Ajadi formally announced his resignation from the NNPP on Monday at a Press Briefing.

He sent the copies of his resignation letter to the NNPP Ward Chairman, the Party’s Ogun State leadership, and its National Executives.

Explaining his defection, Ajadi said the move followed “deep reflection on Nigeria’s political trajectory and the need to operate within a broader platform capable of driving meaningful national transformation.

“My decision to join the Peoples Democratic Party is both strategic and patriotic,” he stated. “I have great respect for the NNPP and what it stands for, but at this point in Nigeria’s history, I believe the PDP offers a wider and stronger platform for national reconciliation, youth empowerment, and true federalism.”

It would be recalled tha Ajadi contested the 2023 Ogun State governorship election under the NNPP after stepping down as a Presidential Aspirant in support of Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, emphasised that his departure was guided by conviction rather than conflict.

Speaking further, Ajadi said, “There is no bad blood between me and my former party.

“I remain grateful for the opportunity to have served under its banner.

“However, as Nigeria continues to grapple with economic hardship, unemployment, and leadership challenges, it is time for like-minded patriots to close ranks and rebuild trust in governance.”

He expressed confidence that his defection would strengthen the PDP’s grassroots mobilisation and reawaken public confidence in the nation’s political process.

“This is not just about party politics,” Ajadi added.

“It is about rekindling Nigerians’ faith in democracy and ensuring that our people feel the real dividends of good governance.”

Ajadi pledged to work closely with PDP leaders at all levels to promote transparency, peace-building, and inclusive governance, reiterating his long-term commitment to national unity and public service.

Nigeria To Achieve 500,000 Metric Tonnes Of Methanol Per Annum In 2026 – Minister

Ayodele Oni

November 10, 2025

By Ayodele Oni

The Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas) Ekperikpe Ekpo, has disclosed that by next year, the100,000 metric tons of methanol being produced this year by a Chinese firm in Ondo state will increase to the estimated 500,000 metric tonnes.

This minister stated this on Monday while on a Site Tour and Project Inspection of the Chinese firm, SuperTech Methanol & Ammonium Bicarbonate Plant, located Ondo-Linyi Industrial Hub, at Omotosho in Okitipupa local government area of the state.

The Minister, who was accompanied on the tour by top officials of the NNPCL and key stakeholders in the gas industry, explained that production of 100,000 metric tons per annum of Methanol and 160,000 metric tons per annum Ammonium Bicarbonate is historic in Nigeria.

Ekpo pointed out that the Chinese plant at Ondo-Linyi industrial hub is a clear testament to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which envisions a Nigeria where gas serves as both the backbone of industrial growth and a catalyst for job creation, innovation, and sustainable development.

According to him,President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is delighted with the take off of first ever Nigeria’s Methanol and Ammonium Bicarbonate factory in Ondo state established by a Chinese company to boost local production of Chemicals and Fertilizers in Nigeria.

He said, “Moving around and seeing the kind of investment that has come into this place ‎is encouraging that they are taking advantage of our natural gas resources to produce methanol and ammonium bicarbonate.

“Henceforth, as I gave a charge to the representative of NNPC in that office, upstream production should take advantage of the methanol from here so as to enhance the growth of this company.

“‎And I believe Mr. President (Bola Ahmed Tinubu) will be happy with what is going on here, that people are taking advantage of our natural gas resources to develop the economy of the nation.

“I’m really impressed, and the federal government will give them all the necessary encouragement to make sure that these projects move high from where they are producing, I think, 100,000 metric tons to the estimated 500,000 metric tons in the year 2026.

“The Supertech Methanol & Ammonium Bicarbonate Plant, Ondo-Linyi Industrial Hub, in Ondo State, is not only the first-ever Methanol and Ammonium Bicarbonate facility in the country, but also a significant addition to our downstream gas value chain, unlocking new opportunities in the production of chemicals, fertilizers, and other industrial inputs that are essential for our manufacturing and agricultural sectors.

“The relocation of this entire plant from China to Nigeria, and the achievement of 100% mechanical completion as of March 2025, speak volumes about the determination, resilience, and technical capacity of the promoters of this project.

“It is a shining example of what is possible when government policy aligns with private sector initiative,” the Minister said.

Also speaking during the tour, the Chairman of Chinese investors, Supertech Chemical Industry, Mr. Yang Jijiang, said “the minister’s visit marks an important milestone in our shared journey to advance Nigeria’s gas industrialization and energy transition agenda.

“Guided by the visionary leadership of the Federal Government and the Ondo State Government, and with the strong support of NNPC Ltd, GACN, and NMDPRA, Supertech has successfully transformed from vision to reality — establishing production facilities with an annual capacity of 100,000 tons of methanol and 160,000 tons of ammonium bicarbonate.

“As a Chinese investor in Nigeria, we at Supertech are proud to contribute to Ondo State’s industrialization drive and the broader economic development of Nigeria.

“We remain committed to creating jobs, transferring technology, and promoting long-term cooperation between our two nations.”

Earlier, the Principal Consultant to the Ondo-Linyi industrial hub, Dr Alexander Ajipe said the Minister’s tour of the project is a moral booster for the Chinese investors in Ondo state.

“As you can see, we have come here to welcome the Hon Minister for Petroleum Resources (Gas), and he has come on a special tour of the bicarbonate and methanol plants built by SuperTech Nigeria Limited. And of course, this is an achievement that we are so proud of in Ondo State and in Nigeria.

“We are now producing fertilizers here and we are producing methanol. It means that we are not going to rely on importation any longer.”

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