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Defection: “Our Members Will Never Toe The Path Of Dishonour” – LP Say

May 18, 2025

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Cross Rivers state Chairman of the Labour Party, LP, Ogar Osim, has insisted that the All Progressive Congress, APC, can never be an option for members both in the State and across the country.

This is just as he debunked rumours of LP Executive members from the 18 Local Councils to the State defecting to the ruling Party.

In a statement issued in Calabar, the State Capital, Osim maintained that the LP structure at all levels in the state remain intact.

Similarly, he categorically stated that members are not in any way contemplating defection to the APC and noted that that they are not afflicted by the dishonour, and worship of money syndromes among some Nigerian political actors.

“No member of the 18 Chapter Chairmen and State Executive Council members of the Labour Party has defected in Cross River State.

“The Chairman of Labour Party in Cross River State Ogar Osim and all members of his executive and those of the 18 Local Councils of the State are very much committed to a better Nigeria.

“We will not toe the path of dishonour ,or monetary form of politics which is almost becoming a tradition for opposition members in Nigeria”,the LP chairman stated.

According to him, the ruling APC has inflicted much pain and hardship on the Nigerian populace destroyed the economy and undermined the existential values of the people.

He emphatically noted that the APC going by the monumental wreckage it has caused ,can never be an option for LP members and concerned Nigerians .

The LP in the State, he insisted, is focused on the concerted efforts at shoving aside the APC from the governance space of the country in 2027.

Obi, Fayemi Attend Pope’s Inauguration, Urge Action Against Poverty

The Source

May 18, 2025

Peter Obi and Kayode Fayemi at Pope's Inauguration

Former Governors Peter Obi and Kayode Fayemi were among global dignitaries at the Vatican for the inauguration of Pope Leo XIV, where Obi echoed the Pope’s powerful message on confronting poverty. Calling for greater compassion and justice, Obi urged leaders to make care for the poor and marginalised priorities, noting that true love of God is best expressed through action that uplifts the vulnerable.

Reaffirming his commitment to social justice, Obi pledged continued advocacy for bold investments in education, healthcare, and poverty alleviation, stressing that a well-educated population remains the foundation for building a just, inclusive, and prosperous society.

Reflecting on the occasion, Obi recalled standing with Fayemi at the same spot in 2013 for the inauguration of Pope Francis, describing both events as deeply significant moments in the life of the Church and the world.

He also recounted his continued ties with the Vatican, including his participation in Nigeria’s official delegations to the canonisations of Pope John Paul II and Mother Teresa, and his involvement in Scholas Occurrentes, a global initiative founded by Pope Francis to promote education and intercultural dialogue.

Obi expressed his delight at seeing President Bola Tinubu and other world leaders in attendance, united in faith. He described Pope Leo XIV’s homily as “profoundly moving,” particularly the call for collective responsibility in addressing poverty and restoring dignity to the forgotten.

Kano: Gov Yusuf Suspends Aide Over Unauthorized Statement On Kwankwaso’s

Suleiman Anyalewechi

May 18, 2025

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

Despite tendering apologies, the Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, has ordered the immediate suspension of one of his political aides, Ibrahim Rabiu from office.

Rabiu, a Special Assistant/Reporter attached to the State Ministry of Transportation, was suspended in connection with the authoring and circulation of a purported press statement credited to the National leader of the New Nigeria Peoples Party NNPP, and its 2023 Presidential candidate Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, on his speculated move to the All Progressive Congress APC.

The statement which also gave details of moves allegedly made by President Bola Tinubu to woo the Kwankwasiyya movement leader went viral on Saturday May 17, 2025.

But in a statement late on Saturday, Senator Kwankwaso, a former Governor of Kano State, and political mentor of Governor Yusuf ,vehemently rejected the said press statement issued by Rabiu.

He categorically denied authorizing the statement which has so far caused some disquiet within the political circle in the country.

A statement issued by Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, the media aide to the Governor, informed that Rabiu was suspended owing to his unguarded, unauthorized and inflammatory statement” concerning Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso’s speculated defection to the APC.

Rabiu’s suspension is contained in a circular issued by the office of the Secretary to the State Government ,SSG, Umar Farouk Ibrahim.

According to the Governor’s Media Adviser, Rabiu’s remarks are not the reflection of the position of the State Government having made same without due authorization.

“The Government has distanced itself from the purported claim describing the statement authored by the suspended aide as solely coming from the author for reasons best known to him”, the Governor’s aide stated.

Besides being suspended, Rabiu is to also respond to a query issued by the office of the SSG , concerning his role and intent over the statement.

This is just as the Kano State authorities warned political appointees and office holders against making unauthorized comments,especially on perceived sensitive issues.

“The Government cautions all political appointees against unauthorized comments, especially outside, their jurisdiction.

“Any political appointees must get clearance before making public comments on issues that have to do with the position of Government on matters of public importance or of sensitive political decisions”, Bature noted.

The Source reports that Rabiu in the face of the controversy and tension generated by the statement, yesterday apologized for not obtaining the expressed permission of Senator Kwankwaso before going public with the statement.

However, this Magazine has gathered that Rabiu, after all, may not be entirely on his own, and may have been a victim of the unintended consequences of the said press statement.

Insecurity: Gov Zulum Seeks Spiritual Solution, Declares Mondays Fasting Day In Borno

Ayodele Oni

May 18, 2025

By Ayodele Oni

A new approach, which is spiritual, is being adopted in Borno State to address the issue of insecurity, which has resulted into displacement of people from their homes.

Governor, Babagana Zulum, has declared Monday a day of voluntary fasting and prayer across the state, to seek divine intervention to tackle insecurity.

The decision, announced during a statewide broadcast on Saturday in Maiduguri, the state capital, aims to seek divine intervention and strengthen public resolve against the ongoing security threats.

“In light of our current security challenges, I am calling on all residents of Borno State to unite in a collective act of faith and solidarity.

“This Monday, I am inviting you to join me in a voluntary day of fasting and prayer for peace to reign in Borno State, the Northeast and indeed the entire country. Let us come together to seek divine guidance, healing, and peace for our state.”

Zulum described the fast as a spiritual yet communal demonstration of resilience. “Fasting is more than a personal spiritual act; it is a communal expression of our shared hope.

“Through prayer and reflection, we can strengthen our unity, renew our resilience, and restore our collective purpose.”

While calling for public participation in the fast, Zulum emphasized that the state government is not relenting on concrete steps to counter insecurity.

He revealed ongoing efforts with federal authorities to revamp the security framework and provide better support for personnel.

“In recent months, I have held extensive consultations with our federal partners and the leadership of various security agencies.

“I am pleased to inform you that the collaboration between Borno State and the Federal Government is stronger than ever.

“Together, we are working on comprehensive strategies to strengthen our security architecture, enhance intelligence sharing, and equip our security agents with the necessary tools to confront the threats before us.”

Zulum reiterated President Bola Tinubu’s assurance of federal backing in overcoming the recent surge in attacks.

“Indeed the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and all the Service Chiefs have given us assurances that they will do everything possible within their reach to bring to an end the current insecurity that we are facing in the state.

“We shall also strengthen our volunteer forces, comprising the CJTF, hunters, and vigilantes, and bolster our community intelligence gathering and early warning systems as part of our commitment to supporting the security agencies.

“Let me warn against colluding with these armed groups, either individually or as a community, as they are our collective enemy.”

The governor expressed deep condolences to the Nigerian Armed Forces over the loss of personnel in recent operations and prayed for comfort for the bereaved families.

Beyond security, Zulum acknowledged the ongoing water crisis affecting parts of Maiduguri, which he attributed to infrastructure damage caused by the September 10, 2023 floods.

“Fellow citizens, I am aware of the ongoing water scarcity affecting parts of Maiduguri, Jere, and surrounding areas. This situation is a direct consequence of the destruction of major pipelines during the catastrophic floods of last year.

“Let me reassure you that my administration has been working tirelessly to restore the affected infrastructure. I appeal for your patience and understanding as we finalise efforts to fully re-establish the water supply system.”

Addressing the recent uptick in urban crime, Zulum also announced the reconstitution of the Anti-Social Vices Committee. The committee is tasked with tackling violent crimes and maintaining order in the metropolis.

“We will not allow criminal elements to destabilise the progress we are making, insha Allah. We are fully aware that the road to lasting peace is not an easy one.

“But with unity, perseverance and faith, we shall all overcome it insha Allah. I call upon all stakeholders, our traditional rulers, religious and community leaders, and indeed every citizen to join hands with us. Together, we can secure our communities, restore normalcy, and ensure that Borno thrives once again.”

Gov Soludo Promises Justice For Murdered Lawyer Iloakasia

Ayodele Oni

May 18, 2025

Ifeanyi Iloakasia and Governor Charles Soludo

By Ayodele Oni

The Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has assured the people of the State that government would apprehend those behind the killing of Ifeanyi Iloakasia, a lawyer and President General of the Aguleri community.

The governor stated that “Ndi Anambra should be assured that the state government is taking this matter with the utmost seriousness, working with security agencies to ensure that the fleeing killers are caught and justice is served promptly.”

Soludo, who condemned the killing, described it as cowardly act.

Iloakasia was killed by yet-to-be-identified assailants, alongside his client on Thursday, May 15, near Agulu-Nanka boundary, in Orumba North Local Government Area of the state, while returning home shortly after a court session.

Soludo, in his reaction, described the killing as “senseless” and “unfortunate”, vowing to take the matter with the utmost seriousness, working with security agencies to ensure that the fleeing killers are caught and justice is served promptly.

The governor’s reaction was contained in a press statement released by his Press Secretary, Christian Aburime, on Sunday.

The statement read in part, “Soludo, in his reaction to the unfortunate incident after being fully briefed, not only condemned the cowardly act of the murderers, but also expressed his deep condolences to the family and friends of the late Iloakasia, as well as the people of Aguleri who have been devastated by this tragic loss of a man widely praised as a tireless advocate of peace.

“Although this criminal incident might have understandably heightened concerns among the public, Ndi Anambra should be assured that the state government is taking this matter with the utmost seriousness, working with security agencies to ensure that the fleeing killers are caught and justice is served promptly.”

In a related development, Soludo also acknowledged and commended the bravery of the state security operatives who thwarted an attack on the security checkpoint in Isuofia on May 15, 2025.

“While mourning the loss of one of the gallant officers during the confrontation, it is however reassuring that calm has returned to the area, and security operations have been intensified to ensure the continued safety of our communities.

“Soludo deeply empathized with all those affected by these recent sad incidents and reaffirmed his commitment to sustaining the peace and security being enjoyed in the state.”

The governor, however, urged residents to remain vigilant and continue to cooperate fully with security agencies as the state worked tirelessly to eliminate the scourge of violence in the state.

Uzodimma To Deliver Keynote Address At African Airforces Forum

The Source

May 18, 2025

Hope uzodimma At African Airforces Forum

Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma, will, Friday, May 23, deliver the key note address at the fourth edition of the African Airforces Forum holding in Lagos.

Chiefs of Air Staff from the African continent will converge on the Nigerian former capital to brainstorm on strategies aimed at combating insecurity in the various countries.

In a letter of invitation to Uzodimma, Air Vice Marshall I.H. Etukudo, on behalf of the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshall Hasan Bala Abubakar DFS, lrequested the governor to address the Air Chiefs.

Etukudo told the governor that his keynote address would kick-start the events of the second day of the conference.

The theme of the conference, according to Etukudo, is: “STRENGTHENING COLLABORATION IN ADVANCED AEROSPACE TECHNOLOGIES FOR ENHANCED NATIONAL AND REGIONAL SECURITY”.

However, on the second day of the conference, when Uzodimma will address the Air Chiefs, presentations will centre on the topic: “ENHANCING AIR POWER FOR COUNTER TERRORISM AND ASSYMETRIC WARFARE”.

This is the second consecutive time that the Imo State Governor will be addressing the gathering of military officers in respect of security situation in Nigeria and the continent.

How 27 Traders Died In Kwara Boat Mishap

Ayodele Oni

May 18, 2025

By Ayodele Oni

Coming after few months of similar incident, another boat mishap in Kwara State has claimed no fewer than 27 lives.

The incident happened Thursday night at Gbajibo community of Kaiama Local Government Area, Kwara State.

Report stated that the victims were returning from a weekly market in neighbouring Niger State when their overloaded boat capsized on the River Niger.

A survivor attributed the accident to overloading and night travel—two common but unsafe practices in the area.

Chairman of Kaiama Local Government, Abdullah Danladi, confirmed the incident on Sunday. He led a delegation to condole with the affected families, describing the incident as a painful loss to the entire Local Government.

“We have met with the bereaved families and assured them of government’s commitment to preventing a recurrence.”

Danladi announced plans to set up a committee to enforce the mandatory use of life jackets and prohibit night-time travel on the river.

Also reacting, the Emir of Kaiama, Alhaji Muazu Omar, expressed grief over the tragedy, calling it both unfortunate and preventable,urging stakeholders to take safety regulations more seriously to avoid further calamities.

Kwara North’s riverine communities have witnessed repeated boat mishaps in recent years, often linked to weak enforcement of water transport safety rules.

Ondo Police Command Arrests Kidnappers’ Currier, During Operation

Ayodele Oni

May 18, 2025

By Ayodele Oni

Twelve suspects linked to alleged kidnappings, robberies and cultism have been arrested by operatives of the Ondo State Police Command.

The Commissioner of Police, Wilfred Afolabi, disclosed to newsmen at the weekend in Akure that the suspects were nabbed during various tactical operations embarked upon by the command.

While briefing Journalists, Afolabi disclosed that “In the early hours of Saturday, at approximately 0020hrs, a combined tactical team of operatives from the Ondo State Police Command and local hunters based in Ikare carried out a successful operation that led to the rescue of a kidnap victim and the arrest of one of the suspects involved in the abduction.

“The operation followed actionable intelligence regarding the movement of suspected kidnappers responsible for the abduction of one Ogunniyi Semiu ‘m’ on 14th May 2025, around Ikare Mine in Akoko North-East Local Government Area.

“Acting on the intelligence, the joint team strategically laid an ambush in a forest area near Supare Mine, believed to be a rendezvous point for the suspects who had demanded a ransom of ₦14 million.

“During the interception, the suspects engaged the operatives in a fierce gun duel. In the exchange, several of the suspects sustained serious gunshot injuries, while one of them—Babuga Muhammed ‘m’, from Igana, Iseyin, Oyo State—was apprehended.

“Crucially, the victim, Ogunniyi Semiu, was rescued alive and unhurt. No ransom was paid.

“In a similar development Command also arrested three suspected Kidnappers who have confessed to their involvement in various kidnapping cases across the state.

“This operation marks yet another success in the Command’s ongoing offensive against kidnapping and violent crime in the state.

“Acting on credible intelligence regarding the activities of one Abubakar Bamoh, male, aged 30 years, an indigene of Bunza Local Government Area of Kebbi State, operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Squad of the Command swung into action and successfully apprehended the suspect at one of the Fulani camps in Igbara-Oke Mine, Ondo State.

“The suspect, Abubakar Bamoh, is alleged to be a major logistics provider for suspected kidnapping syndicates operating across state lines.

“Preliminary investigations and intelligence revealed that he played a significant role in providing logistical support in a kidnapping incident

that occurred in Osun State, in which the victim was abducted and subsequently held hostage in a forest located in Igbara-Oke Mine, Ondo State.

“Upon his arrest, the suspect volunteered a confessional statement and provided useful information regarding the operations of the syndicate.

“A search conducted at his premises led to the recovery of one Tecno mobile phone, suspected to have been used by the syndicate for communication, and a solar panel, allegedly used to power their devices in the forest.

“The Command has, within the past days made significant progress, on 15/5/2025 at about 0630hrs, the DPO ‘B’ Division Owo upon information received, led his operatives to arrest one Aliu Raymond ‘m’ aged 42yrs at Isuada in Owo.

“Suspect is a member of Eye Cult Group who has been terrorizing Isuada area and has been on Police Wanted List.

“He confessed to numerous crimes he has perpetrated including an attack on a commercial motorcycle rider on 14/5/2025 in Isuada and mentioned some other members of his group. Effort is ongoing to arrest other members of the said group and recover their weapons.

“Upon information received at Yaba Police Station on 14/5/2025 at about 2230hrs, that a motorcycle rider named Fasakin Isaac ‘m’ was shot on the chest and his passenger, Benjamin Olubodun ‘m’ shot on his right shoulder by four masked armed robbers who equally snatched his unregistered Black TVS motorcycle, operatives from the Division moved to the scene.

“The robbers on sighting them from afar escaped but a cut to size single barrel gun was recovered at the scene while the victims were rescued to Trauma Centre Ondo for medical attention. Effort is ongoing to arrest the culprits.

“Arrest of Suspected Armed Robber.

On 6th May 2025 at about 2000hrs, one Innocent Kazi was violently robbed of his motorcycle near Crest FM, Alagbaka, Akure, by a gang who struck him with a hammer before carting away the motorcycle.

“During the operation, a phone belonging to one of the suspects fell at the scene. Using advanced technological tools, SWAT operatives successfully traced and arrested two suspects, including Hasminu Jibirimi (m).

“The suspects confessed to the crime and revealed that stolen motorcycles were routinely handed over to one Yahaya (m), whose role is to swiftly transport them to the northern part of the country.

“Also, in a similar development the command Swat team armed with credible intelligence arrested two suspected thief who specializes in stealing vehicles from unsuspecting members of the public.”

Deposed Benin Chief Priest, Four Others Arrested For Alleged Possession Of Human Skulls, Arms

Suleiman Anyalewechi

May 18, 2025

Igbinovia Kelvin - Chief Priesst of Ohen

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

Barely three days after his deposition by the Oba of Benin the Edo State Police Command on Sunday, May 18, 2025, announced the arrest of the Chief Priest of (Ohen) of Okhoromi Community of Oredo Local Council, of the State ,Igbinovia Kelvin for allegedly being in possession of human skulls ,arms and ammunition.

The Source reports that Oba Ewuare II had, on Thursday, May ,15,2025, sacked Kelvin, from his Chief Priest’s position over allegations bordering on land grabbing and intimidation of his people.

His deposition was announced on the heels of massive protest by the people of Okhoromi alleging land grabbing as well as indiscriminate demolition of their properties, intimidation and harassment.

The erstwhile Chief Priest was arrested together with four other suspects ,namely Osagie Igbinovia ,Osarodion Omoregie ,Charles Otasowei ,and Edwin Igbinovia.

A statement on Sunday from the Edo State Police Command spokesperson Moses Iyamu, informed that the chief priest ,and other suspects were apprehended by operatives of the Intelligence and Rapid Response Squad in collaboration with the Anti-Kidnapping Squad on Saturday May 17, 2025.

Items said to have been recovered from them include two AK-47 rifles ,two single barrel locally fabricated short guns, three empty AK-47 magazines, one OFM magazine, eleven rounds of 7.62 mm ammunition ,and suspected human skulls.

According to Iyamu, further investigations and efforts are underway to recovering more arms and ammunition in possession of the embattled chief priest.

Similarly, the Police Spokesman noted that the Command has deployed operatives to track down fleeing members of the deposed Chief Priest’s gang.

The State Commissioner of Police, CP, Monday Agbonika, according to the statement, has reaffirmed the Command’s commitment towards riding the state of the activities of criminal elements.

This is just as the police Command has assured that all the arrested persons will be arraigned as soon as investigations are concluded.

Abati Vs Oshiomhole: When the Pen (Mouth) Provokes the Fist

The Source

May 18, 2025

By Valentine Obienyem

When Adams Oshiomhole challenged Reuben Abati to settle their disagreement “on the street,” it was more than a lapse in decorum – it was a reversion to primitive instinct. Stripped of political context, the challenge echoed an age-old pattern: the urge to resolve disputes not through dialogue or principle, but through confrontation and dominance. Far from being novel, it is the tragic survival of barbarism beneath the surface of civilisation.

At the mention of a street challenge, one’s mind is drawn to the ancient pankration – a brutal contest often decided only when one opponent died. Indeed, feuds of old were frequently resolved by one party killing the other. Ah yes, to settle disputes by killing one another is a solution so old that it precedes civilization; and so absurd that it survived civilization in people like Adams, as primitive as the old Adam.

Oshiomhole’s verbal aggression may not carry swords, but it echoes the same absurd impulse to trade reason for combat. What we witnessed was not strength, but the unmasking of how easily a man of public standing can discard civil discourse for primal theatre, appealing not to intellect, but to instincts best left behind.

Oshiomhole is, in many ways, a specimen of human contradiction – unsteady from centre to circumference. At one moment, he praised Mr. Peter Obi as the best governor in Nigeria, declaring that other governors tried to emulate him. In another breath, he claimed Obi achieved nothing as governor. This pendulum of pronouncements reveals not political calculation but a deeper inconsistency – a restless mind that rarely holds a conviction long enough for it to mature into principle.

The man has really demonstrated to us that true civilisation is not measured by offices held or titles worn, but by consistency of conduct and clarity of thought. That Oshiomhole so easily abandons both only proves how fragile the facade of maturity can be, even in those who have once worn the garments of statesmanship.

Obienyem, a Lawyer, writes from Awka, Anambra State

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