Cross River Assembly Suspends LG Chairman

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June 11, 2025

By Ayodele Oni

The Cross River State House of Assembly has prevented the impeachment of Chairman of Bekwarra local Government, Theresa Ushie by the Councilors.

The Assembly, however, clamped three months suspension on Ushie, pending investigation of allegations against her.

This action follows a petition and resolution from nine of the ten councilors in the Local Government, which was reviewed by the Assembly and other key stakeholders.

The Councilors had previously attempted to impeach the LG Chairman three months earlier, citing allegations of corruption, misconduct, abuse of power, and the halting of councilors’ salaries, among other grievances.

They forwarded their concerns to the State Assembly, the Governor, his Deputy, and the State Party Chairman.

After discussions with Local Government Stakeholders, including Governor Bassey Otu, the Speaker of the State Assembly, the State Chairman of the ruling APC party, and the Councilors, it was concluded that suspending the Chairman for three months was appropriate.

This decision adheres to the procedures specified in Section 14 (3) of the State’s Local Government Law 2025, according to State Assembly Speaker Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem.

During the suspension, Egbung Odama, the Vice Chairman of the Council, will assume the role of acting Chairman.

Furthermore, the State Assembly constituted an investigative committee to examine the allegations put forth by the Councilors.

Rivers: Ibas Presents N1.48trn Budget, Says State Officials Were Uncooperative

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Ayodele Oni

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June 11, 2025

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By Ayodele Oni

Rivers State Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.), has revealed that there were frustrations in the course of thr preparation of the 2025 budget for the State.

Ibas, who proposed ₦1.48 trillion budget for 2025 before the House of Representatives Ad-Hoc Committee overseeing Rivers State affairs in Abuja on Wednesday, pointed out that his Administration faced challenges during budget preparation due to a lack of cooperation from certain officials.

“Unfortunately, there was reluctance from some state actors to provide essential financial data, which limited our ability to fully reflect all expenditures.

“Still, we have ensured that all available financial information was included, maintaining transparency and fiscal responsibility under the state of emergency.”

In anticipation of early return of suspended political office holders including Governor Siminalayi Fubara, the budget includes allocations for their offices.

“With the expectation that constitutional governance will soon be restored, the draft budget has preserved allocations for the roles and responsibilities of political office holders currently on suspension.

“Some of these individuals have already accessed public funds during the first quarter and may return to their positions once the emergency situation ends.”

Ibas pointed out that the budget proposal aligns with the broader goals outlined in the Rivers State Development Plan (2017–2027), which focuses on boosting revenue, improving infrastructure, developing human resources, and fostering inclusive growth.

The proposed spending plan, which anticipates generating ₦1.4 trillion in revenue, was forwarded to the National Assembly following presidential assent and a Supreme Court ruling affirming the legality of the appropriation process under the current governance structure in Rivers.

In his opening remarks, Ibas expressed appreciation to lawmakers for their support and dedication, saying, “We in Rivers State value your efforts and commitment to your constitutional responsibilities, especially given your demanding schedules.”

Responding to the presentation, Chairman of the Ad-Hoc Committee and House Majority Leader, Prof. Julius Ihonvbere, commended Ibas for presenting a thorough and transparent budget.

“This committee is ready to collaborate with you to restore peace, stability, and sustainable development in Rivers State,” Ihonvbere said.

“We will thoroughly examine this budget and invite your team for further defence. While we are committed to supporting progress, we will also ensure due diligence is followed.”

He also highlighted the importance of the budget’s provisions for pensions and women’s empowerment, noting that such measures have a direct impact on citizens’ lives.

“These components show compassion and foresight. They represent real efforts to meet the needs of the people.”

Hon Justice Galumje Loses Wife, PSC Mourns

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The Source

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June 11, 2025

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The Commissioner representing the Judiciary on the Police Service Commission, PSC, the Honourable Justice Paul Adamu Galumje, a retired Supreme Court Judge, is bereaved.

Galumje, Commissioner (l) on the Board of the PSC Board, has lost his wife Mrs Zeporah Galumje. Her passing has thrown her family and the PSC Board into deep mourning.

To inspire Justice Galumje and condolence with him,

the Chairman of the PSC, DIG Hashimu Argungu rtd mni, has led a delegation of the Commission’s Management Team on a condolence visit to the retired Supreme Court Justice.

The Commission Chairman’s delegation included Chief Onyemuche Nnamani, Secretary to the Commission and Heads of Departments and Units.

DIG Argungu prayed that God who knows everything should receive the soul of the departed and give the husband and children including her extended family the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.

A statement released by Ikechukwu Ani, Head, Press and Public Relations, PSC, said the Chairman, also, urged the retired Justice to be strong and believe that hus wife has gone to be with the Lord, stressing that the Commission will continue to remember the family in prayers.

Chief Onyemuche Nnamani, also speaking at the condolence visit prayed for an eternal repose of the soul of the departed. He consoled the family on the loss but noted that God knows the best.

Justice Galmuje who received the Commission’s delegation said he is humbled by the visit and the calibre of the delegation so soon after the call to glory of his dear wife.

He thanked the Chairman and Members of the delegation and noted that they have decided to accept the fate that has befallen the family.

Anyanwu: Bayelsa PDP Backs Wike, Demands Presidency Zoned To South

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James Orji

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June 11, 2025

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The Bayelsa state chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, has thrown its weight behind the FCT Minister Nyesom Wike over the ongoing tussle for the party’s National Secretary.

The chapter under the leadership of George Turnah said it agreed with the minister that the party should zone the 2027 presidential ticket to the south.

The minister had on Monday, during a stakeholders meeting in Abuja, the nation’s capital insisted that Samuel Anyanwu remained the PDP scribe, citing the recent Supreme Court judgment on the matter.

The magazine reported that Sunday Ude-Okoye, a former National Youth Leader of the party has the support of the majority of the party’s leadership for the position.

According to a statement issued by Derri Wright, the state PDP Publicity Secretary on Tuesday, it decided to recongnise Anyanwu as the National secretary because of its desire to ensure that the party survived its current crisis, saying Wike’s position on the issue is driven by his love for the party.

Turnah said the PDP in the state stands behind the minister in all the decisions taken at the meeting, noting that zoning the president to the south is line with the PDP Constitution, adding that Anyanwu cannot be replaced because there’s no ‘vacancy’ in the position.

Part of the statement: “We fully endorse the resolutions reached at the meeting, and as a State Chapter, we stand by our decision, and to state that there is no vacancy requiring any replacement whatsoever. Our party’s Constitution and the recent Supreme Court decision regarding the National Secretary issue are very clear and unambiguous in this regard.

“As a State Chapter, we stand united with the rest of our Eminent leaders and concerned stakeholders across the Federation in the decision to zone the Presidential ticket of our party for the upcoming 2027 elections to the Southern region. This strategic move does not just demonstrate our commitment to inclusivity and fairness. It also does ensure that our party remains attuned to the voices of all Nigerians.

“Bayelsa State PDP reaffirms its loyalty to the resolutions of this meeting and remains steadfast in its support for Nyesom Wike as our national leader, as well as our endorsement of Samuel Anyanwu as the National Secretary. Together, we will forge ahead with renewed vigour to restore the PDP to its rightful place as a beacon of hope and justice for our people and nation.”

The magazine reported that three former governors on the platform of the PDP attended the Abuja stakeholders meeting apart from the minister. They are Samuel Ortom, Okezie Ikpeazu, and Ifeanyi Ugwanyi.

Dele Momodu: Nigeria Now Has Two Presidents

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James Orji

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June 11, 2025

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Ovasion Magazine publisher Dele Momodu has accused the Minister of the Federal capital territory, FCT, Nyesom Wike of behaving as if he’s Nigeria’s President and Commander-in-chief.

Wike, a former governor of Rivers state and a member of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, was appointed into the position by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC.

Momodu, a former Presidential candidate of the PDP and an ardent critic of the minister said Wike now behave like na alternate president to Tinubu who appointed him as FCT Minister.

Momodu spoke on Channels Television Programme, The Morning Brief on Wednesday, in his reaction to President Tinubu’s affirmation of Wike’s efforts in transforming the FCT.

President Tinubu had while commissioning the International Conference Centre, ICC, rehabilitated by the FCDA praised the minister, urging him to ignore those the president described as ‘busybodies’ and ‘bystanders who are trying to distract him from achieving his aims for the FCT.

The popular journalist said the president has allowed the minister to do what he likes in the country, suggesting that President Tinubu is treating Wike as if he’s an alternate president to him.

Momodu: “I listened to the President refer to concerned Nigerians as ‘busybodies’ and ‘bystanders.’ Who is a bystander in his own country? All because of one man—Wike.”

” Wike was dancing after commissioning a centre said to have cost over ₦30 billion. Right now, it feels like we have two presidents in Nigeria.”

While commissioning the ICC, the minister accused some people of trying to stop him, to which President Tinubu told him to go ahead without looking back.

“Don’t pay attention to the busybody and the bystanders. Whatever they say, continue with your good work. You’re a transformational leader, you have the foresight and determination to succeed,” Tinubu said.

The ICC built by the regime of military dictator, Gen Ibrahim Babangida cost N350 million, at the time according to checks by the magazine, but was recently renovated with N30 billion by the Minister.

“There Is No Faction In Ohaneze Ndigbo” – IPOB, Warns Isiguzoro

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Suleiman Anyalewechi

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June 11, 2025

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By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Indigenous Peoples of Biafra, IPOB, has strongly kicked against the attempt by those it described as “hungry political errand boys of Abuja slave masters” to create phantom and nebulous factions within the leadership structure of the Ohaneze Ndigbo.

This is just as it called on Igbo and South Easterners to shun all activities in connection with the celebration of June 12,Democracy Day.

In a statement issued Tuesday evening, June 10, 2025, by its spokesperson Emma Powerful, IPOB warned that it will no longer tolerate the denigration,and bastardization of the name of Ohaneze Ndigbo by some self serving individuals.

According to the group, there is no faction within the rank of the revered Igbo apex body. IPOB noted that the only recognized leadership of the Igbo socio-cultural organization is the one led by the much respected Senator Azuta Mbata

The IPOB similarly disassociated the Igbo nation , itself ,and its leadership headed by Mazi Nnamdi Kanu from the purported statement by one Okechukwu Isiguzoro on behalf of Ohaneze Ndigbo regarding the history of Igbo,and the States in which they are.

The group expressed deep concern over the tendency by a secion of the country’s media to accord unmerited attention to those it termed ” sponsored clowns” masquerading as factional leaders of Ohaneze Ndigbo.

According to IPOB ,any individuals parading themselves as factional leaders of Ohaneze Ndigbo are not only insulting the Igbo nation ,but also daring it.

It, therefore, urged the general public to disregard attempts by political merchants to create non-existent factions within the Ohaneze Ndigbo.

Following is the full text of the IPOB terse statement

“We Shall No Longer Tolerate These Insulting Charades in the Name of Ohanaeze Ndigbo – IPOB”

“The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), under the supreme leadership of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, wishes to categorically dissociate the entire Igbo nation and the Biafra freedom movement from the recent shameful utterances made by one Okechukwu Isiguzoro in the name of Ohanaeze Ndigbo.

“We state for the record that Okechukwu Isiguzoro is unknown to the Igbo race as representing any recognised wing or faction of Ohanaeze Ndigbo. Ohanaeze is not factionalised. The notion of a “factional” Ohanaeze exists only in the minds of hungry political errand boys doing the bidding of their Abuja slavemasters. These inconsequential elements neither represent the Igbo people nor speak for Ndigbo.

“It is appalling that these buffoons masquerading as leaders of a non-existent faction continue their coordinated efforts to give the impression that the Igbo race is disoriented or lacks cohesion. This is a calculated insult to our heritage and identity.

“They are also woefully ignorant of Igbo history. The recent claim that Igboland exists in only seven states of Nigeria is an outrageous falsehood. Igbo-speaking people are indigenous to 13 states of this British-created contraption called Nigeria. Any attempt to shrink our ancestral footprint is an unforgivable betrayal.

“Let it be known that Ohanaeze Ndigbo is currently led by Senator Emmanuel Mbatta, and that remains the only recognised and respected leadership of the apex Igbo socio-cultural body. Any individual parading himself as a “factional” leader is not only insulting the Igbo nation, but also daring IPOB with such impunity.

“We are equally disappointed with sections of the Nigerian media that give oxygen to these Abuja-sponsored clowns. The same media that would not dare suggest a “faction” in Afenifere or the Arewa Consultative Forum are quick to publish garbage intended to diminish Ohanaeze. We say to these media houses: any brown envelope you collect to publish such drivel will haunt you.

“IPOB is a proud promoter of free speech, but let everyone make their comments in their personal capacity or through their own platforms. Dragging the name of Ohanaeze into every sponsored narrative is cowardly, fraudulent, and unacceptable.

“We also wish to clarify, once again, that Ohanaeze Ndigbo—whether we agree with them or not—remains the apex body of Ndigbo. IPOB reserves the right to criticise Ohanaeze when they err, but we do not presume to represent them, nor should any other impostor.

“Finally, we call on all Biafrans to ignore any call for participation in June 12-related events. Until Nigeria learns to respect and honour May 30th—our sacred Biafran Remembrance Day—we shall not partake in their selective history or skewed national rituals.

“This is not just about IPOB. This is about our dignity, our truth, and our right to define who we are.

“COMRADE EMMA POWERFUL, MEDIA AND PUBLICITY SECRETARY FOR IPOB”

NIMASA Gets BPSR Commendation

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James Orji

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June 11, 2025

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In alignment with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, NIMASA, has received commendation from the Bureau of Public Service Reforms, BPSR, for its forward-thinking approach to institutional reforms.

Speaking during a two-day sensitization workshop in Lagos, the Director General of BPSR, Dr. Dasuki Ibrahim Arabi, commended NIMASA for its exemplary commitment to enhancing operational efficiency, transparency, and service delivery through the automation of its systems.

In his keynote address titled “Overview of National Strategy for Public Service Reforms,” Dr. Arabi identified NIMASA as one of the standout MDAs embracing transformative change. He noted that the Agency’s reform agenda, particularly its adoption of digital technologies, sets a commendable benchmark for other government institutions.

“NIMASA is showing, in practical terms, what alignment with national reform goals should look like. Their embrace of automation is not just innovative—it is essential for modern governance,” Arabi stated.

He further highlighted that Reform Coordination Units within MDAs serve as strategic instruments for institutionalizing change, improving performance, and aligning operations with the national reform blueprint led by the Bureau of Public Service Reforms, BPSR, . Among the key national reform initiatives he cited were the Treasury Single Account (TSA), the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System, IPPIS, and the Government Integrated Financial Management Information System, GIFMIS, —all aimed at promoting transparency and accountability in public service delivery.

“Our focus is to equip institutions with tools such as the Self-Assessment Tool (SAT) and to facilitate collaboration among stakeholders in order to drive consistent improvements in public service delivery,” Arabi added.

In his opening remarks, the Director General of NIMASA, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, reaffirmed the Agency’s commitment to reform, underscoring its role as a catalyst for national development

“Reform is the pathway to innovation and national advancement. Without change, we risk stagnation. As a forward-looking organization, NIMASA is embracing transformation to fulfill its mandate and better serve the nation,” Mobereola said.

He urged NIMASA staff to embrace a proactive and open mindset toward change, emphasizing that adaptability is essential to building institutional resilience and achieving long-term success.

The workshop provided a valuable platform to deepen awareness of public service reform objectives among NIMASA personnel and to reaffirm the Agency’s alignment with national priorities focused on improving governance and driving economic development.

Ghana To Name, Shame Those Who Publicly Use Honorary Doctorate Titles

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Adesina Soyooye

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June 11, 2025

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By Adesina Soyooye

In Ghana, the public use of Honorary Doctorate Degrees and Professorship titles has been officially barred.

For one to use such titles, according to a statement from Ghana’s Tertiary Education Commission, GTEC, one has to earn it by going through academic rigours.

In a statement, GTEC said it would not only name and shame those who flout the order, it would take legal action.

The statement signed by Professor Augustine Ocloo, Acting Deputy Director General, GTEC, noted that that the fraudulent use of the titles is common among politicians, clerics and businesses persons. Such use, it pointed out, makes a mockery of the higher education system, and dilutes the integrity and value of true doctoral education and promotion of the professorial system in the universities. Such habit, it pointed out, is at once deceitful and unethical.

“This notice goes especially to politicians, business men and business women, men and women of God, and any other category of persons to desist from officially using the Honorary and Professorship titles in their everyday life”, the statement warned.

A Doctorate degree (PhD) is the highest degree awarded by Universities when an individual has completed his/her studies, as well as dissertation. Professorship is the topmost academic rank in the University which individuals obtain based on scholarly works and achievements.

In Nigeria, the use of Honorary Doctorate degrees and professorship titles has been so abused by every Tom, Dick and Harry, including wealthy stark illiterates that those who earned the titles through scholarly works are ashamed to use them.

Even If Fubara Joins APC, He Will Still Be Impeached – Okocha, Rivers APC Factional Chair

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Suleiman Anyalewechi

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June 10, 2025

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By Suleiman Anyalewechi

Not even joining the All Progressive Congress, APC, will save suspended Rivers Governor Siminalayi Fubara from the sword of impeachment, a faction of the party has insisted.

The Source reports that Governor Fubara, his deputy and Members of the State House of Assembly, were on March 18, 2025, slammed with a six month suspension, following the declaration of a State of Emergency in the State by President Bola Tinubu.

The emergency proclamation was, in itself, a direct consequence of the seemingly unresolvable differences between Governor Fubara and the State Lawmakers believed to be fiercely loyal to the Governor’s estranged political godfather, Nyesom Wike ,the Federal Capital Territory FCT Minister.

President Tinubu had cited the need to prevent a possible breakdown of law and order as one of the major reasons for his intervention.

But at an interactive session with the Media on Tuesday June, 10, 2025 in Abuja, Rivers State APC factional Chairman, Chief Tony Okocha, noted that the impeachment threat remains in force in the absence of any genuine reconciliation between the law makers and Governor Fubara.

His statement comes amidst speculations that the embattled Governor elected on the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, platform may have resolved to defect to the APC as one of the preconditions for his early reinstatement in office.

In fact ,rumours have been rife that democratic order may be restored in Rivers state as the country marks June 12 Democracy Day on Thursday.

However, the Rivers State APC Chairman expressed fears that the state Lawmakers may still opt for the removal of the Governor, even if he decides to join Mr President’s party if concerted efforts are not made to sort out areas of disagreement with the legislative body.

“Only genuine reconciliation can save him ( Governor Fubara ) from impeachment as the Supreme. Court judgment stands. Any reconciliation must also be arrived at through lawful and due processes

“But, as of today ,I can confirm that there is no genuine and serious reconciliation effort ongoing as it concerns the political situation in Rivers state.

“The suspended Governor has not made any move to reconcile with the Lawmakers. If the situation remains unresolved before the restoration of democratic governance, the possibilities of impeaching the Governor will still be there even if he decides to join APC”, Okocha emphasized.

This is just as he asserted that the APC is no dumping ground for political outcasts.

According to him, as a law abiding party, there are some due processes that have to followed before admitting the suspended Governor.

“In any case, Fubara cannot be forgiven simply because he joined the APC. APC is not a dumping ground .He must follow the procedures before he can be admitted. He has to join from his ward”, he noted.

Reps Beams Searchlight On Condition Of Foreign Missions

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Ayodele Oni

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June 10, 2025

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By Ayodele Oni

The House of Representatives is set to address the poor conditions of Nigerian missions abroad.

To this end, a motion being sponsored by three members of the Green Chamber is already before the lawmakers.

The motion was sponsored by Kingsley Chinda (PDP, Rivers), co-sponsored by Jesse Okey-Joe Onuakalusi (LP, Lagos) and Fred Agbedi (PDP, Bayelsa), calling for an investigation into the deteriorating state of Nigeria’s Diplomatic Missions, particularly in the United States of America.

The motion urged the House to assess the structural, operational, and diplomatic challenges faced by these missions, which have raised concerns over national image, staff welfare, and service delivery to Nigerians abroad.

A statement by the Reps spokesman, Akin Rotimi Jnr, explained that members of the House stressed the importance of restoring dignity to Nigeria’s foreign missions through transparent oversight, adequate funding, and strategic foreign policy alignment that reflects the country’s global stature.

“In response, the House resolved to launch a comprehensive probe, engaging relevant MDAs and stakeholders to chart a course for reforms that will enhance the effectiveness and integrity of Nigeria’s diplomatic presence worldwide.

“This action affirms the 10th Assembly’s unwavering commitment to accountability, global representation, and the welfare of Nigerians everywhere.”