Home Blog Page 552

Eid-el Kabir: President Tinubu Calls For Prayers In Support Of Security Agencies, Vulnerables

June 6, 2025

By Ayodele Oni

President Bola Tinubu on Friday, joined others for prayers at the Eid ground, Dodan Barracks in Lagos as Muslims celebrate Eid-el Kabir.

The president, while speaking to Reporters, called for more prayers for the military and security agencies currently making sacrifices to keep the nation safe, particularly those confronting terrorists and bandits.

Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President, while quoting the president, stated that security agencies and vulnerable citizens should top prayer list.

“We should remember to pray and give to those who are very vulnerable in the spirit of the season, which is sacrifice. We must unite, remain our brothers’ keeper, and give to our neighbours. We should show love to everyone.

“We must also pray hard for our troops to keep us safe. They are making sacrifices in the challenges that we face from terrorism and banditry today.

“We must pray for them specifically, remember their sacrifices, and continue to behave well as citizens.”

At the prayer ground, the Chief Imam of Lagos State, Suleiman Oluwatoyin Abu-Nola, urged the Muslim faithful to remember and reflect on Abraham’s sacrificial life.

“The whole essence of today is sacrifice. We must learn to make sacrifices for our family, nation, and community. We must render our service to Allah, not men.”

The Chief Imam called on worshipers to live in peace and consider the needs of their neighbours, the poor and vulnerable.

“If we are to see the Nigeria of our dreams, we must be ready to make sacrifices. We must unite as Nigerians to make progress.

“We must rise above tribal sentiments. Whether you are Igbo, Yoruba, or Hausa, we must live above ethnic sentiments.”

Along with President Tinubu, the Ministers of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, the Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, the Defence, Bello Muhammed Matawalle, as well as the Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Femi Hamzat, and the former governor of Lagos State, Babatunde Fashola, were at the prayer ground.

Also at the Eid ground were the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu; the speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa; the President of Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote; the Chairman of the BUA Group, Abdul Samad Rabiu; the Group Chief Executive of Oando, Wale Tinubu; and President Tinubu’s friend and longtime ally, Prof. Shaffideen Amuwo.

Sanwo-Olu Absent At Tinubu’s Lagos Event

The Source

June 6, 2025

By Gideon Njoku

Why was the Governor of Lagos State absent at President Bola Tinubu’s public events in Lagos on Wednesday? That is the question many people are asking. But an ear to ground would reveal that no thanks to a brewing friction, the Governor kept off, allegedly, to avoid a public embarrassment.

The whispers behind closed doors have suddenly become loud publicly.

It began gradually. In whispers, that the once close relationship between President Bola Tinubu and his political son, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has gone sour. Nobody knew why except for the unconfirmed speculation that the President was upset over the aborted impeachment of the Speaker of the Lagos House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa.

The President, the allegation goes, thinks Sanwo-Olu was behind it, and felt betrayed that the Governor could engineer such without referring to him.

Yet nobody could confirm the state of the relationship- warm, lukewarm or cold.

However, it became obvious, political observers pointed out this other day when the President Commissioned 30 kilometers of the over 700- kilometer Lagos-Calabar Coastal road.

Even though as required by protocol, Sanwo-Olu was at the Airport to receive the President on his arrival, but President Tinubu, pointedly, in a rather awkward and embarrassing manner, shunned him publicly at the event.

As the President walked the line shaking the hands of Governors present and other dignitaries, he pointedly ignored Sanwo-Olu who had bent double, almost, in respect, to shake the President. But President Tinubu gave him the cold shoulder, skipped him, and shook the Governor of Kogi, Usman Ododo. Not a few people were shocked.

But that was not the only snub suffered by Governor Sanwo-Olu. The Governor of Ogun State, Prince Abiodun was chosen to speak at that occasion well above Sanwo-Olu, who rightly is the host Governor, and more important, Chairman of the South-west Governor’s Forum.

But even then, not a few people were taken aback by Sanwo-Olu’s conspicuous absence at President Tinubu’s flag-off of the reconstruction of the Deep Seaport access road, Epe. His seat, well labeled, was empty, but his Deputy, Dr Obafemi Hamzat, was present.

He was the one President Tinubu specifically addressed whe he wanted to talk about Lagos; he was the one he kind off gave a message for Sanwo-Olu about the intention of the Federal Government to revoke any Island developed along maritime zones without authorization. Even though that message was ostensibly for all Governors, some people felt it was meant for Sanwo-Olu. I’m glad tye Deputy Governor of Lagos State is here. Take it that we will revoke all.those approvals given on setbacks, and please note that we are serious about it. No more approvals for those unapproved islands being created illegally”, the President said.

Governor Sanwo-Olu’s absence was odd but many felt he wanted to avoid the public embarrassment he suffered on the day the refused to shake his hands. The Governor, however, kept himself busy with other State activities.

NAFDAC Bursts Warehouse With Expired Beverages In Kaduna, Arrests Owner

Ayodele Oni

June 6, 2025

By Ayodele Oni

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has detained the owner of some expired beverage products after it uncovered a warehouse in Kaduna State allegedly used to distribute the expired non-alcoholic beverages worth an estimated N35million.

Andrew Tamanuwa, Deputy Director of NAFDAC’s Investigation and Enforcement Directorate in Kaduna, who confirmed the arrest said it followed a tip-off from a concerned citizen.

The News Agency of Nigeria, (NAN) reports that acting on the information, operatives intercepted two buses and a Golf wagon loaded with expired products en route to Kwanar Dangora in the Kiru Local Government Area of Kano State.

Tamanuwa told journalists that the intercepted beverages included 700 packs of Schweppes and 300 packs of Fanta Orange, all of which were past their expiry dates.

“The vehicles were reportedly tracked and stopped before they could reach their intended distribution point in Kano.

“Following the seizure, the operatives traced the source of the consignment to a warehouse in Kaduna, where more expired products were discovered and evacuated.”

Tamanuwa confirmed that the owner of the expired beverages was arrested and taken into custody for further investigation.

He added that the investigation further uncovered a warehouse on Bayajidda Road in Kaduna, where additional expired beverages were found.

According to Tamanuwa, the seized items included 588 packs of Schweppes, 3,508 packs of Coca-Cola Zero Sugar, and 87 packs of Fanta Orange.

He noted that the products had expired in November 2024 and were subsequently moved to the agency’s warehouse, pending destruction.

Tamanuwa confirmed that investigations are ongoing to identify other individuals involved in the case.

He urged the public to report any suspicious products, especially during the festive season, to help protect public health and ensure consumer safety.

Tamanuwa reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to remaining vigilant against expired and harmful products, assuring Nigerians of its dedication to safeguarding their health.

Akwa Ibom Commissioner Resigns, Few Hours After Gov Eno Defection

Ayodele Oni

June 6, 2025

By Ayodele Oni

“Today, I have tendered my resignation to the Governor in compliance with his directive that his appointees who are unwilling to join him on the political journey to the APC should resign.”

This above quote is from a Commissioner, a few hours after Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, officially defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) on Friday.

The Commissioner, Ini Ememobong, resigned, stating that he could not join the APC.

The Governor had earlier told his Commissioners that anyone not ready to join the APC should be prepared to leave the cabinet.

Ememobong was Commissioner for special duties and Ibom Deep Sea Port before his resignation. The 42 year-old was a former State PDP Publicity Secretary (2016-2020), and later Information Commissioner under former Governor Udom Emmanuel.

He explained that he tendered his resignation letter in compliance with the directive of the Governor that any appointee unwilling to follow him to APC should resign.

In a post afterwards he said:

“Behold another bend : Today, I have tendered my resignation to the Governor in compliance with his directive that his appointees who are unwilling to join him on the political journey to the APC should resign.

“While I cannot question or fault the Governor’s personal decision, I am unable to join in that sojourn. My decision is borne out of my belief in politics with principles and my long standing opposition to that political platform, which is daily validated by numerous Nigerians across many sectors.

“This decision does not affect my personal relationship with the Governor, who calls me his brother and reposed great confidence in me by saddling me with two very important ministries (Information and Special Duties & Ibom Deep Sea Port). I have, and will continue to have tremendous respect for HE Governor Umo Eno, even out of EXCO.

“About my history in political and public service, I look back with great satisfaction at the work I have done and leave the ultimate judgement to history and posterity. Given another opportunity, I will do more.

“Let me convey the very sincere appreciation of my family to His Excellency, Pastor Umo Eno for appointing me into his cabinet. Our very special appreciation goes to Mr. Udom Emmanuel, the immediate past Governor of Akwa Ibom State for his enduring love and belief in me, especially for appointing me into the Executive Council during his administration.

“I understand this decision may not please everyone, and to those who are disappointed, I humbly seek your understanding.

“As usual, I do not know the future, but I know HE who holds the future and I trust that at the end, all things work together for good, to those who love the Lord and are the called unto HIS purpose.”

Police In House-To-House Raid In Edo State, Arrest 28 Cultists

Suleiman Anyalewechi

June 6, 2025

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Edo state Police Command, on Friday, June 6, 2025, said it has commenced a meticulous house-to-house search and arrest of suspected cult members and other criminal gangs in the state.

This is just as it announced the apprehension of no few than 28 identified cultists in the ongoing operation.

The Source reports that Edo state, in the past few months, has been battling with an upsurge in cult-related violence, attacks, deaths and destruction of both private and private properties.

This has pushed the State authorities and security agencies, particularly, the police into adopting some tough and far-reaching measures in combating the menace.

A statement on Friday from the Command’s spokesperson, Moses Iyamu, informed that the house-to-house search is one of the measures conceived to effectively tackle cult-related disturbances and deaths in the state.

According to him, the 28 suspected cultists were arrested during a coordinated raid on some identified flashpoints between 4 pm and 10 pm on Wednesday, June 4, 2025.

He explained that the new measure aims to either completely eradicate cultism, cult-related violence and attacks as well as reduce them to the barest minimum.

The police spokesman stated that the house-to-house search and arrest exercise is mostly anchored on the twin policies of visibility policing and community engagement.

According to Iyamu, 19 out of the arrested 28 suspects found culpable after a rigorous screening exercise have been arraigned .

Three of the arrested suspects, he added, during interrogation, admitted to being members of the Eiye and Aye confraternities.

The Command, while advising cult members to voluntarily renounce the practice and be useful and law abiding citizens, however, vowed to sustain its present onslaught on cultists in the state.

Eno, Akwa Ibom Gov, Finally Dumps PDP, Defects To APC

Suleiman Anyalewechi

June 6, 2025

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Governor of Akwa Inom State , Dr Umo Eno on Friday, June 6, 2025, in Uyo ,the State capital completed the process of his entry into the fold of the All Progressive Congress APC.

The brief but remarkable ceremony which was witnessed by some APC Governors led by the Chairman of Progressive Governors Forum, Senator Hope Uzodinma of Imo state, ended weeks,, of intense speculations and anxiety concerning the political fate of Governor Eno.

Governor Eno explained that the decision to severe relationship with the Peoples Democratic Party PDP, and join forces with the APC is to align Akwa Ibom with political events at the centre.

The decision, he noted is a product of many months of wide and extensive consultations with all relevant stakeholders in the state.

This is just as he emphasized that they are defecting not from the position of weakness, but that of huge strength.

“We are not joining the APC from a position of weakness, but from a position of strength .

“We are bringing value to Akwa Ibom State .We have come into APC with a Ministry of reconciliation.

“After completing rounds of consultations as your servant whom you have elected to serve, I have, therefore, decided to progressively move to the APC”, Governor Eno stated.

Further speaking, Eno informed that he had, before the defection ceremony, perfected the processes of his formal exit from the PDP, his original political nest.

The Governor was joined in the defection by members of the House of Assembly, the Governor’s Cabinet members, Chairmen and Councillors of Local Government Chairmen.

The Source reports that the defection of the Governor has since the movement of his Delta State counterpart, Sheriff Oborevwori, on April 13, 2025, taken the centre stage of political discuss.

However, his defection was not without some tinge of drama and anxiety, occasioned by rumoured opposition from former Governor Emmanuel Udom, and some chieftains of the PDP in the state .

In fact Eno’s defection plans were reportedly openly opposed by not a few in Ikot Abasi ,during a town hall meeting on Thursday.

Other APC Governors on hand to receive Eno ,were those from Cross River, Lagos, Ogun, Delta, Edo, and Ebonyi states.

Mohammed Uwais, Fmr Nigeria’s CJN Dies

Ayodele Oni

June 6, 2025

By Ayodele Oni

A former Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Mohammed Uwais (retd), is dead.

His Death comes 24 hours after that of Professor Jubril Aminu, an accomplished academic, first class cardiologist, diplomat and former Minister for Education and later, Petroleum.

A source close to the family revealed that the erudite jurist, who served as CJN from 1995 to 2006, died in Abuja in the early hours of Friday.

Born on June 12, 1936, the late Justice Uwais served as Judge of the High Court, and later Justice of the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court before his appointment as Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), a position he held for 11 years.

Justice Uwais also chaired the Electoral Reform Commission constituted by the late President Umaru Yar’Adua and in 2008, submitted critical recommendations for reforms in Nigeria’s electoral system.

At the time of this report, arrangements were being made for funeral prayers at the National Mosque and subsequent burial in accordance with Muslim rites.

Dangote Names Refinery Road After Tinubu

James Orji

June 6, 2025

The President of Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote has named the road leading to his multi-billion petrochemical refinery in Lagos after Nigeria’s President, Bola Tinubu.

The Dangote Refinery, worth over $20 billion was commissioned in 2023 by former President Muhammadu Buhari. It’s one of the largest refineries in the world.
He made the announcement on Thursday during the official commissioning of the Deep Sea Port Access Road, linking the Dangote Fertiliser Plant to the Eleko Junction, saying the president has made immense contribution to making the project a reality.

He praised the president for supporting the private sector in the country, noting that by showing an uncommon courage in this area he has encouraged players in the sector.

He said: “The Dangote refinery complex is in many ways your brainchild.

“Mr President, let me just say one thing — the main road going into our refinery is now going to be called Bola Ahmed Tinubu Road.

“With continued collaboration and shared resolve, we are confident that the journey ahead will usher in even greater opportunities for our people and our country under your courageous and ambitious leadership.

“Mr President, you are a very courageous leader. Please continue the great work you are doing. Thank you for your support and encouragement. Definitely, you should expect more, and you should see more, as this has given us the confidence to do more in supporting your government.”

EFCC Boss Calls For Sustained Battle Against Corruption

James Orji

June 6, 2025

The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Ola Olukoyede, has called on Muslim faithful across the country to promote the spirit of love, sacrifice, truth, and integrity, as they celebrate this year’s Eid-El Kabir.

The EFCC boss made the remark in Abuja on Thursday, in a goodwill message to Muslims.

The magazine reported that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and other prominent political and religious leaders have sent their goodwill messages to Muslim faithful across the country.

Speaking, Olukoyede urges Nigerians not to lose sight of the ongoing fight against corruption in the country, saying graft must be killed for the country to move forward and become one of the ‘greatest nation’ in the world, adding that all hands must be on deck to tackle the menace.

He said President Tinubu has demonstrated an uncommon courage by providing political support for the agency to fight corruption, urging Nigerians to support him, noting that progress and national development would only be achieved through collective efforts of all Nigerians.

Olukoyede: “As we celebrate Eid al-Adha, let’s keep our focus keener on tackling corrupt practices in our land. We have all it takes to confront and conquer financial and economic crimes. Nigeria is awaiting our collective efforts to make her the greatest nation on earth.

“We owe the President this obligation of appreciating him. Without a political will, we cannot tackle corruption effectively.”

Earlier President Tinubu had in his Eid–el Kabir thanked Nigerians for their patience with his government, assuring them that they will soon start enjoying the gains of the ongoing reforms.

The president said, “Together, we have weathered challenging times and are approaching a brighter horizon.

“Though the journey has not been easy, and some doubted our direction, the resilience of public and private sector leaders, along with the steadfast support of most Nigerians, is yielding results.

“I assure you that the toughest days are behind us. We are entering a new era of renewed hope and prosperity that we promised two years ago.”

He urged Muslims to utilise the celebration to promote good deeds and acts of worship to their Maker.

“I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Nigerian Muslims and the global Muslim Ummah as we celebrate this year’s Eid-el-Kabir.

“Eid-el-Kabir represents the high point of the sacred first ten days of Dhul Hijjah, a period filled with opportunities for acts of worship and good deeds.

“It is a time for gratitude to Almighty Allah for His countless mercies upon us as individuals and a nation. While this festival is marked with joy and celebration, its true significance lies much deeper: Eid calls us to reflect on its core values of sacrifice, devotion, and selflessness.

“To truly honour Eid, we must embody these virtues, just as Prophet Ibrahim (AS) exemplified complete submission to Allah’s will and as our Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) has taught us. Let this sacred occasion renew our commitment to these ideals.

“Eid-el-Kabir also reminds us of our responsibilities beyond faith: to show resilience, tolerance, compassion, and dedication to the progress of our beloved country.

“I reaffirm my commitment to these values and express my deep appreciation for the faith, patience, and perseverance Nigerians show as we implement bold reforms. Together, we have weathered challenging times and are approaching a brighter horizon.

“We may not yet be where we aspire to be, but I urge all Nigerians not to lose hope. Let us hold on to our faith and persevere.

“Our reforms are gaining traction, with key economic indicators now moving in a positive direction. Soon, all will feel the benefits.

“The ultimate objective of these reforms is not just to improve statistics but to transform lives and set Nigeria firmly on the path to sustainable development.

“There are no quick fixes, but we are committed to repairing the foundations of our economy once and for all.

“Our administration will continue acting in the nation’s best interest, ensuring that the gains we are recording translate into improving people’s lives.

“We crafted our Renewed Hope Agenda to bring prosperity to every Nigerian, and we remain steadfast in our pursuit of it.

“As we celebrate today, remember that Eid-el-Kabir enjoins love, compassion, and generosity for all, regardless of faith or background. Let us care for one another’s well-being during this season and always.

“In this instance, I recall recent sad developments in our country, particularly the Wednesday, May 28 heavy flooding, which submerged the market town of Mokwa, Niger State, causing deaths and destruction of properties and creating an untold humanitarian crisis.

“Let us pray for the repose of the souls of those who lost their lives and fortitude for their relations. Let us join hands with the government to bring succour to the people of Mokwa.

“Finally, as we observe this Eid, let us continue our prayers for our front-line officers, who risk their lives for our safety and security.

“Let us pray for our leaders at all levels and our country. Let us pray for peace in our tumultuous world of troubles and uncertainties. Let us dedicate this sacred celebration to seeking God’s guidance and blessings for our country.

“May those who have more remember those in need, sharing kindness and support as true brothers and sisters. Let the virtues of perseverance, sacrifice, loyalty, faith, and shared humanity bind us closer.

“May the joy and blessings of Eid-ul-Adha multiply in our lives and the life of our great nation. May Almighty Allah accept our worship and devotion as acts of Ibadah, and may His blessings be with us always,” Tinubu said.

Eid-El-Kabir: Deputy Senate President Re-affirms NASS’ Support For Tinubu

Tosin Olatokunbo

June 6, 2025

Senator Jibrin Barau- Deputy Senate President

Barau Jibrin, Nigeria’s Deputy Senate President says Bola Ahmed Tinubu has shown uncommon courage in the manner he has been running the affairs of the country, two years in office as President and Commander-in-chief.

The senator representing Kano state in the nation’s upper legislative chamber said because of this, the president will continue to receive the support of the National Assembly which is ready to make laws to that effect.

Jibrim made the remark as part of his Eid-El-Kabir message to Nigerians on Thursday, saying the lawmakers are ready to make legislation in support of the Renewed Hope Agenda of the president, aimed at making the country prosperous.

He said President Tinubu has performed well in tackling the nation’s myriads of problems, including insecurity and economic challenges.

He urged Muslims in the country, to, in the spirit of the season continue to live in peace with other Nigerians, urging all Nigerians to use this occasion to re-commit themselves to building ana economically viable and a united nation.

Jibrin: “President Bola Tinubu has demonstrated strong leadership and genuine commitment in addressing our country’s challenges. In the last two years, he has succeeded to a considerable extent in tackling our security challenges and stimulating our economy. We are on the path to prosperity.

“To consolidate the successes recorded under this administration, the National Assembly will continue formulating the necessary legislation to support the President in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda, designed to restore the country’s glorious days.”

The magazine reported that the National Assembly has received knocks from not a few Nigerians, who described the lawmakers as a rubber-stamp for the president.

For Instance, during his recent state of the remark, renown cleric Pastor Tunde Bakare accused the Legislators of failing to hold the president accountable to his actions, saying they have lost their popular toga as the “bastion of Democracy.”

1...551552553...2,933 Page 552 of 2,933