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“Forgive Us, Politicians Misled Nigerians” – Northern Group Begs Jonathan

By
Akinwale Kasali
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Goodluck Jonathan
Dr. Goodluck Jonathan:

By Akinwale Kasali

A North Eastern Group under the aegis of “Bring Back Our Goodluck” has urged  former President Goodluck Jonathan to forgive them over past allegations linking him to the sponsorship of terrorism in the region.

The Group stated that they were deceived by a former United States President and some desperate Nigerian politicians, who portrayed Jonathan in bad light to them.

At a press conference in Maiduguri on Friday, the Group ’s National President, Grema Kyari, described the allegations as “lies” and insisted they were part of a grand strategy to remove Jonathan from office in 2015.

Kyari admitted he was among those who once believed the claims, stating that the group now recognises the accusations as false and politically motivated.

“I come before you not only as the National Chairman of “Bring Back Our Goodluck” but as a witness to history and as a Nigerian who, like millions of others, was once misled. I am from Borno State, one of the epicentres of the Boko Haram insurgency. During the Presidency of Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, a damaging narrative was that he sponsored Boko Haram and used the military to suppress us. These lies thrived in an environment of limited and restricted access to truth,” he said.

The Group tendered a “heartfelt public apology” to the former President, declaring that with broader exposure and clearer understanding, they now know the allegations were baseless.

“We now recognise that he was a leader of integrity, compassion, and national vision. We now believe that President Jonathan was removed from office in 2015 as a result of regime change orchestrated by foreign powers in connivance with some desperate politicians in Nigeria,” Kyari added.

Highlighting Jonathan’s legacy, the group hailed him as a democrat who put the nation first.

“In 2015, President Jonathan made history by conceding defeat even before the final election results were declared. He called then-General Muhammadu Buhari to congratulate him, a courageous and selfless act that prevented post-election violence and safeguarded our democracy,” Kyari said.

He also pointed to Jonathan’s defence of Nigeria’s cultural values, recalling how the ex-President signed the Same-Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act into law in January 2014 despite international pressure. According to him, the move safeguarded the country’s moral values, in contrast to the recently signed Samoa Agreement, which he claimed undermines them.

Kyari further argued that Jonathan’s administration showed humility when it partially reversed the 2012 fuel subsidy removal following nationwide protests, unlike the current government’s abrupt removal, which has caused widespread hardship.

He added that Jonathan’s appointments were based on merit and competence, not tribal or political favouritism.

“He sought to unite rather than divide, a quality Nigeria desperately needs today,” Kyari stressed.

Calling for Jonathan’s return to politics, the group urged him to contest the 2027 presidential elections.

“On behalf of “Bring Back Our Goodluck”, I call on all well-meaning Nigerians, from the North to the South, East to West, to join hands in urging Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, GCFR, to once again answer the call of history. And in this moment of economic crisis, he deserves another chance to lead,” Kyari declared.

Health: Ondo Gov Aiyedatiwa Inaugurates Third Oxygen Plant

By
Ayodele Oni
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Ondo State Oxyegen Plant

By Ayodele Oni

An international health interventionist agency, Global Fund, in conjunction with the Federal Ministry of Health and National Agency for the Control of AIDS, has constructed a Pressure Swing Absorption Oxygen Plant in Akure, Ondo state capital.

Facilities at the Oxygen Plant include Oxygen Concentrator, Air Compressor, Air Dryer, Booster Compressor, Oxygen Tank, Air Tank, Voltage Stabiliser and power generator.

The Inauguration of the Akure facility brings to three the number of such in the state with one in Okitipupa, serving the southern senatorial district and another in Owo for the northern district.

Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, while inaugurating the plant, described the development as a great relief, noting that the project would go a long way in complimenting the efforts of his administration towards enhancing healthcare services in the state.

The governor represented by Secretary to the State Government, Taiwo Fasoranti, assured that the facility would be protected and secured, commending the strides President Bola Tinubu is recording in the health sector across the country.

Aiyedatiwa stated that in less than six months of his administration, the health sector has begun to witness a turnaround as an upgrade of health facilities is in progress across the state, while employment of professionals is being carried out in all cadres.

He urged the Chief Medical Director of the State Specialist Hospital at Oke-Aro to put in place safety precautions to ensure that safety of staff is prioritised.

The Special Adviser to Governor on Health, Simidele Odimayo said the signing of Memorandum of Understanding, (MoU), to transform the Federal Medical Centre in Owo into a Teaching Hospital would be signed before the end of the month.

This, he said would bring to three the number of Teaching Hospitals in the state.

While disclosing plans to enhance emergency medical services, Odimayo said emergency and ambulance services would be enhanced to accommodate private sector participation.

In his comments, Commissioner for Health, Dr. Banji Ajaka also highlighted the various interventions of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa in the health sector, noting that people used to get Oxygen in Lagos before the construction of the plants in Okitipupa, Owo and now Akure.

Ajaka also appreciated the federal government as well as Global Fund for the collaboration and charged officials to make judicious use of the facility.

Bye Election: Police Foil Voters’ Inducement In Kaduna, Arrest Suspect

By
Ayodele Oni
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By Election in Kaduna

By Ayodele Oni

As the bye- election to fill vacant positions in National and State Assemblies is ongoing in some states, security agents in Kaduna swooped on a hotel in the state capital, where a man was caught in the early hours of Saturday with a sack filled with bundles of cash believed to be intended for vote buying ahead of the Bye-elections.

The suspect, identified as Shehu Aliyu Patangi, was picked up at about 3:30 a.m. from a popular hotel on Turunku Road in Kaduna metropolis. He was found with ₦25,963,000 in cash, according to the Police.

A preliminary inquiry, officials say, suggests that the money was meant to induce voters in order to skew the outcome of the elections.

Police claimed that: “He confessed to the crime and begged for mercy,” said DSP Mansir Hassan, the spokesman for the Kaduna State Police Command.

“The said amount was believed to have been earmarked for bribing voters.”

The Commissioner of Police, Rabiu Muhammad, vowed that the authorities would not tolerate any attempt to undermine the polls.

“Anyone found attempting to subvert the electoral process through vote buying, thuggery, violence, or any other illegal conduct will face the full wrath of the law,” he warned.

The police also issued a broader caution to political actors, urging them and their supporters to shun violence.

Reports, claimed that plan by unnamed politicians to trigger unrest during the voting exercise.

Security personnel have been stationed at polling units, collation centres and identified flashpoints.

“The command will deal decisively with troublemakers,” the statement continued. “Anyone, no matter how highly placed, who engages in violence, intimidation, vote buying or thuggery will be arrested and prosecuted.”

Residents were urged to go about the elections without fear, with assurances of security before, during and after the vote.

Insecurity: Ondo LG Floats Own Security Outfit

By
Ayodele Oni
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0
Owo LG Floats Own Security Outfit

By Ayodele Oni

Following escalating insecurity, Owo local government in Ondo state has floated a security outfit to tackle incessant kidnappings and terrorists attacks.

Already, the first set of the personnel, numbering 150 are currently undergoing training, being coordinated by the Ondo state Police Command.

The Commissioner of Police, Ondo State Command, Adebowale Lawal, has visited the trainees to assess their preparedness for the task.

The newly formed Owo Security Network, an initiative of Omolayo Tope, Chairman, Owo Local Government Council, will complement efforts of the police, other security agents in tackling insecurity in the area.

Spokesman of Ondo police command, Olusola Ayanlade who shed light on the new outfit, explained that “The security network, comprising men and women drawn from the local communities, is currently undergoing specialized training by the Nigeria Police Force, Ondo State Command.

“The initiative aims to complement the efforts of the police in ensuring effective and efficient service delivery in the protection of lives and property.

“A total of 150 operatives, constituting the first batch of trainees, are being prepared for their new role as vigilante operatives. Two additional batches, expected to number between 150 and 200 operatives each, will subsequently undergo the same training.

“Upon completion, all operatives will operate in close collaboration with the Nigeria Police Force to enhance security across Owo Local Government.

“In addition to their overt security duties, the operatives will also work covertly to gather and provide timely, accurate, and actionable intelligence to the police, thereby strengthening the Command’s capacity to prevent and respond swiftly to security threats.

“As the ember months approach — a period often associated with increased criminal activities nationwide — the Ondo State Police Command, under the leadership of CP Lawal, is proactively emplacing robust security measures to forestall any breakdown of law and order.

“This targeted training of both state and non-state actors is part of the Command’s comprehensive strategy to ensure a peaceful, crime-free season across the state.

“The Commissioner assured that the Command will provide continuous training and capacity building for the operatives, noting that the protection of the rights and freedoms of all citizens remains paramount in all security operations.

“This pioneering programme further affirms the Nigeria Police Force’s unwavering commitment — under the leadership of the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM — to community policing, engagement, and partnership.

“It also aligns with the IGP’s vision and mission statement, which emphasizes people-centered policing, transparency, adherence to the rule of law, and enhanced community participation in security.”

In his remarks, CP Lawal expressed profound appreciation to the IGP for his continuous support to the Command and for championing the cause of community policing nationwide.

The CP commended the vision behind the Owo Security Network and tasked other local governments within the state to embrace such initiatives, noting that security is a collective responsibility that requires all stakeholders to work in synergy.

He further encouraged the operatives to discharge their duties diligently, remain law-abiding, act strictly within the provisions of the law, and recognize that their role — both in visible patrols and discreet intelligence gathering — will be critical to safeguarding the community, especially during the ember months.

The Chairman of Owo Local Government, Omolayo Tope, pledged the council’s continued cooperation with the police and other security agencies to ensure the safety and well-being of residents in Owo Local Government Area.

Oloto Of Oto:  Do Not Sell The Land

By
The Source
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0
Major General Tajudeen Olanrewaju

By Tajudeen Olanrewaju (Major General rtd)

“Arising from the humongous piece of land purchased by Zenco, the video of which went viral, and now,  this!”

I have a lot of respect for our traditional rulers as the custodian of our culture, tradition and values. But I am beginning to wonder if some of our traditional rulers are actually protecting the Lagosian heritage. The case at  hand  here is the reported sale of Otumara land at Costain to an Igbo developer by the present Oloto of Oto Oba Muh’ Bashir Abisoye Odesanya, Arokunsha 11.

Over 6,000 square meters of prime lagoon front of expansive family estate has been  hastily disposed off without regard to our norms, indifferent to our heritage and the long term impact of displacement and ethnic cleansing this insidious action may inflict on  generations yet unborn. I don’t want to believe this potential sacrilege.

I write as a Prince of Lagos, as one who  treasures the blood and the bond of our ancestors who protected our heritage with vigor and defiance against the colonial power from usurping our lands which define who we are.

If the late Oluwa of Lagos had succumbed to the British over-reach in their attempt to usurp our traditional land  holding system in 1862 after the illegal cession of Lagos, will the Oloto have anything to sell now ? Why is it that some of our traditional rulers easily forget the sweat , the painstaking challenges, the sufferings  that our ancestors confronted in our earliest beginnings  in the struggle to protect our identity ?

I have not forgotten. We have not forgotten.

As one who has reached the highest height of power in this country as a member of the former Provisional Ruling Council, as a former  GOC, former Communications Minister and effectively number 3 in command, I believe  I can come out firmly that I understand this country far better than the Oloto and I appreciate the importance  of  protecting what belongs to us.

We cannot fritter our hard earned cultural identity on the platter of temporary monetary gains. On behalf of all Omo Eko Pataki  I am asking the Oloto to cancel forthwith the illegal sale of the Oloto family land to the trespassing Igbo developer and return his money immediately.

Lagos is not for sale. We  are already under pressure everywhere as these migrants by stealth and deceit acquire innumerable properties across our homeland.

Is the Oloto aiding and abetting this outrageous erosion of our heritage? Is he happy with  the daily displacement of Lagosians from their family holdings as shylock Igbo developers rampage our homeland with filthy lucre ? Oloto, please return their money and let your family members plan the proper usage of that important traditional property. It must remain within the control and purview of the Oloto extended family use.

Lagos state is already undergoing outright conquest in  population, politics, power struggle, investment engagement, and displacement in land space.  Pray, Is the Oloto encouraging the gradual and relentless expansionistic tendencies of non-indigenous people against the interest of the Lagosian natives ?

Does he treasure transient monetary advantages over the irreplaceable savaging of  our heritage ? I hope not.

Again, Oloto, please return their money and let our people breathe. We are already suffocated and barely thriving. Do not sell the land.

Major -General Tajudeen Olanrewaju

Former GOC, Third Armored Division

Former Minister of Communication

Former member of the defunct Provisional Ruling Council.*Former member of the defunct Federal Executive Council Trustee DE RENAISSANCE Patriots Heritage Foundation- Lagos State

Imo, Home Of Journalists, Says Uzodimma.. Editors Insist Governor Is Their Friend

By
The Source
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0
Hope Uzodimma with Editors

Governor Hope Uzodimma has said that Imo State remains home to all journalists in the country, noting that the State can proudly classify the journalists as her indigenes.

He spoke Friday when the executive members of the Nigerian Guild of Editors who were in Imo State for their strategy meeting paid him a courtesy call at Government House, Owerri.

Led by her President, Mr. Eze Anaba, the Guild also had kind words for Governor Uzodimma’s lovely disposition towards journalists, insisting that he is their friend.

In his remarks, the Governor called on Nigerian Guild of Editors to encourage responsible journalism which he said supports democracy and national development.

He highlighted the crucial role the media play in shaping public opinion and promoting good governance, and urged editors, as gate-keepers, to pursue with patriotic zeal, the tenets of developmental journalism, focusing on constructive criticisms that promotes national cohesion and development.

He raised concern over the unchecked influence of social media which, as a double edged sword, has in most cases, been deployed to spread damaging falsehood.

The Governor who called for measures to regulate the social media and prevent its reckless use, challenged the Guild and Nigerian Union of Journalists to rise to the occasion of ensuring that social media reckless use does not cause harm to individuals and society.

Governor Uzodimma assured that his government will remain committed to supporting journalists to bring sanity and order to the society and appealed for collaboration and partnership between the government and the media to drive development in Imo State in particular and Nigeria at large.

Assuring the Guild that Imo is safe for residents and visitors alike he urged them to feel free to visit the numerous projects that have been executed recently in the State, such as the Assumpta Flyover and reconstructed Control Post Roundabout, Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu International Convention Centre, among others.

He also encouraged them to interface with the management of the Orashi Electricity Company so as to be properly guided on the plan of his administration to light up Imo State in few months to come.

Governor Uzodimma’s speech read:

“It is indeed my great pleasure to welcome you to Owerri once again. This marks your third official visit here, and we are always glad to receive you.

“I recall that the current President of the Guild, Mr. Eze Anaba, was elected right here in Owerri two years ago. A few months before that, I had the privilege of hosting the Guild to its biannual conference. Not long after your election, the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) also held its own election here in Owerri, during which the current President of the NUJ emerged.

“So, in a manner of speaking, both the President of the Guild and the President of the NUJ are Imo products. By extension, we can proudly claim you as indigenes.

“It would therefore not be out of place to declare Imo State the home of journalists. And on that note, I say: welcome home.

“Having said that, let me begin by warmly congratulating the newly elected Executive of the Nigerian Guild of Editors. I also extend my congratulations to all members of the Guild for conducting what was clearly a free, fair, and credible election in Enugu.

“Through your conduct, you have renewed confidence in the democratic process. As a microcosm of Nigeria, you have demonstrated that credible elections are possible and pointed the way forward as we approach 2027.

“Indeed, as we move closer to the next general elections, the role of the media becomes even more critical to the stability of our democracy. As I’ve said before, we rely on you to show us the path to follow. As gatekeepers of public information, what you choose to publish will shape how Nigerians interpret and respond to unfolding events.

“You have the power to permit divisive and inflammatory content that could lead to hatred, unrest, and disunity. But you also have the power to amplify voices of peace, unity, and reason. The choice is yours, but I trust that your patriotism will guide you to make the right call.

“That said, I must once again raise a concern I’ve expressed before: the unchecked influence of social media. While social media can be a powerful tool, it is also a double-edged sword. It competes with traditional platforms in speed and reach, but not necessarily in accuracy or responsibility. We must all ask: what safeguards exist to prevent individuals from sitting behind screens and spreading damaging falsehoods, without any regard for verification or fairness?

“This is a challenge for the Guild. And while I commend the steps you’ve recently taken to sanction members who breach your codes, particularly your action against those who violated confidentiality, it must not stop there. I believe the Guild, working in synergy with the NUJ, has both the authority and the responsibility to address the broader issue of the reckless use of social media. I hope to see even more decisive actions in that direction.

“I’ve taken note of your concerns and suggestions. Let me assure you that this government remains committed to supporting the journalism profession in fulfilling its role as the Fourth Estate of the Realm. My doors remain open, and so do those of my officials, many of whom are your professional colleagues. We are ready to work with you and make your job easier.

“Now that you are here again, I encourage you to enjoy the warmth and hospitality of our people. Contrary to the alarmist claims of those who do not wish us well, Imo is safe, for both residents and visitors alike.

“Take time to move around the state and see for yourselves the progress we have made in building Imo into a model of excellence. As you do, you will notice that the flyover at Assumpta Roundabout was not there when last you were here. You will also see that the world-class International Conference Centre at Orlu Road junction has since been completed. Indeed, you will be delighted by the additional infrastructure we have put in place to support the development of our state.

“But above all, I urge you to interact with the management of the Orashi Electricity Company, so you can be well apprised of how far we have gone in our determination to provide 24/7 electricity across all 27 local government areas of the state in the coming months. I am confident that by the time you conclude your visit, you will agree with us that a new Imo is truly on the rise.

“Welcome once again, and thank you for making Imo State your home. May God lead you safely back to your respective stations.”

Earlier in his address, the President Nigerian Guild of Editors, Mr. Eze Anaba said that the group was in Owerri for their first meeting since after the inauguration of the newly elected executives.

Anaba said it is traditional they seize the opportunity of the visit in the State for such meeting to see some projects within hence the members will do the same while in Imo State.

He appreciated Governor Uzodimma for his cooperation and support to the media in the country, not just the Guild, and described him as “the friend of Journalists.”

Anaba used the opportunity to invite the Governor to the Guild’s annual editors conference holding in Abuja in October 2025. At the event, he said the Governor is expected to speak on his achievements in Imo State and what the Federal Government has done to improve democracy in Nigeria.

The Secretary to the State Government, Chief Cosmas Iwu, the Chief of Staff, Barr. Nnamdi Anyaehie, Commissioner for information, Strategy and Public Orientation, Hon. Declan Emelumba and some members of State expanded Executive Council were present at the event.

2027: Election Rigging Will Lead To Revolution – Charly Boy

By
Tosin Olatokunbo
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Charles Oputa - Charly Boy

Septuagenarian entertainer Charles Oputa, aka Charly Boy has cautioned politicians in the country not to rig the 2027 election, saying death awaits those who do so.

Oputa widely described as Area Father said any attempt to subvert the will of Nigerians during the election can also spark to revolution in the country.

The musician who recently had a face-off with the Lagos State government for renaming the ‘Charly Boy Bus Stop’, gave the warning during an  interview with Rudolf Okonkwo on 90MinutesAfrica, describing the 2027 election as a ‘defining Moment” for the country because it’s “rig and die”.

Oputa:“The 2027 election will be a defining moment for Nigeria. Anybody that plans to rig should be ready to die. It is rig and die.

“Because by that time, our eye go clear well well. E don clear small o. What we are about to see in 2026 will make Nigerians decide whether to continue in this manner or to cause a revolution to happen in this country.”

While reacting to the renaming of Charly Boy Bus Stop to Olamide Badoo Bus Stop, Oputa described the exercise as a futility, saying the action of the state government was incapable of destroying his legacy.

He argued that the action was meant to counter his fight against oppression and injustice in the country.

“This is not just about a bus stop. This is about fear. Fear of a boy who refused to bow. Fear of a man who challenged the oppressors. Fear of a man who didn’t beg the system to be accepted,” he said.

“So what do timid people do? They change the name like e go wash away their shame. Bariga, Gbagada, the entire Lagos knows the truth.

“That name Charly Boy Bus Stop was not given by politicians. It was named by the people — the same people Fada fought for, walked with, and empowered.

“They may change the signboard. They may pretend not to remember. But let me remind them Area Fada no dey Finish.

“He didn’t need to sing sweet songs to be accepted. He didn’t need to wear agbada to beg for titles. He’s a movement. He’s an institution. He’s a warning.

“So to all the small minds and timid hearts. You may change the name. But you will never kill the legacy.

“This name Charly Boy is carved into the history of Nigeria, Written boldly in the streets of Bariga, Etched into the minds of those who still dare to question authority.

“Legacy isn’t on a signboard. It’s in the hearts you changed, the voices you awakened, and the fear you planted in corrupt souls.

“So go ahead, change the name. But remember, You can’t change the truth. You can’t erase fire. Area Fada no dey finish. Still here. Still standing. Still fighting. His legacy? Will outlive yaall.”

FG Fumes After Canadian Court Designates APC, PDP Terrorist Orgs

By
Tosin Olatokunbo
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0
Yusuf Tuggar - Foreign Affairs Minister
Yusuf Tuggar

The Federal Government has demanded a retraction of the ruling by a Canadian court designating the All Progressives Congress, APC and Peoples’ Democratic Party, PDP, as terrorists organisation.

According to the federal government it’s wrong for the Canadian court to describe the two political parties which have produced elected presidents for Nigeria as terrorist organisations, adding that the roiling represents an unnecessary interference in the country’s internal affairs.

The government’s position on the issue is contained in a statement issued by Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which also described the classification as totally baseless and “unacceptable”.

The reaction, the magazine reports comes on the heels of the June 17, 2025 judgment by Justice Phuong Ngo of the Federal Court of Canada, while ruling on an asylum’s suit involving a Nigerian, Douglas Egharevba.

The federal government said, the ruling “constitutes an unacceptable interference in Nigeria’s internal affairs and democratic processes.

Adding that “The Court made a sweeping accusation against the entire membership of a political party that has produced three democratically elected presidents, instead of focusing on individuals found wanting. The larger ramification of the decision is that every member of the mentioned political parties is a potential terrorist, and that is completely false and unacceptable.”

“Nigeria is a sovereign nation with a robust legal and constitutional framework governing political activities. Our political parties operate within the ambit of the law and are integral to the country’s vibrant democracy. To associate legitimate political entities with terrorism without credible evidence is a grave misrepresentation that undermines Nigeria’s democratic institutions and could incite unnecessary tension.

“The Federal Government of Nigeria, therefore, calls on the Canadian authorities to immediately retract this erroneous designation and refrain from actions that could be misconstrued as endorsing politically motivated narratives against Nigeria. Diplomatic channels remain open for constructive dialogue, and we urge the Government of Canada to engage with the relevant Nigerian institutions to rectify this error.

“Nigeria remains committed to the global fight against terrorism and has made significant strides in countering extremist groups within its borders; therefore, called on the international community to disregard this misguided ruling and reaffirm its confidence in Nigeria’s democratic governance and rule of law.

“The government further urges Nigerian nationals to refrain from making unfounded allegations against Nigeria under the pretext of seeking asylum or favours from foreign entities.”

LP: Court Seals Abure’s Fate, Says He’s No Longer Chairman

By
Tosin Olatokunbo
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0
Julius Abure

The tenure of Julius Abure as the National Chairman of the Labour Party, LP , has expired, according to a ruling by a federal High in Abuja, the nation’s capital.

The court gave the judgment following a suit filed by the Abure-led LP faction, in trying to assert himself as the authentic National Chairman of the party, following a protracted leadership crisis.

The magazine reports that another faction of the party led by Senator Nenadi Usman,a former Minister of Finance is also laying claim to the leadership of the party.

The unending crisis has forced INEC to exclude the party’s candidates from the nationwide bye-election slated for Saturday , August 16 2025.

Ruling on the matter brought by Abure, the federal high court ruled that his tenure has expired since June 2024, and he can no longer preside over the affairs of the party.

The court said it based its judgment on the Supreme Court ruling of April 4, 2025, which affirmed that Abure’s tenure alongside the National Executive Committee, NEC, has expired over a year ago.

In her reaction to the judgment, Senator Usman said the “lingering doubt” that has hitherto existed over the tenure of Abure as the National Chairman of the nparty has now been finally put to rest by the court.

She stressed that the judgment is binding on the parties involved in the crisis, adding that “unambiguous” pronouncement of the nation’s apex court is the affirmation of the Constitution.

“This is another unambiguous affirmation of the rule of law and the Supreme Court’s binding pronouncements.

“The chapter is closed — we must put distractions behind us and rebuild the Labour Party into the disciplined, people-centred movement Nigerians deserve.

The Source earlier reported that Abure, while reacting to the exclusion of LP candidates from today’s bye-election across the country, warned that the INEC was embarking on a fruitless exercise, as the elections could be canceled.

In a statement on Tuesday, Obiora Ifoh, factional national publicity secretary of the Abure-led LP, said it will challenged the outcome of the election in court, as a way of protecting the image of the party.

Ifoh had cited the Electoral Act 2022 allowing any political party excluded from an election to approach the court for a remedy.

“The leadership of the Labour Party has advised that if the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) goes ahead to conduct the August 16, 2025, bye-election without publishing the names of its candidates and ensuring that its logo appears on the ballot, it will seek the nullification of the election in line with the provision of the law,” the statement reads.

“The party has also called on well-meaning Nigerians to prevail on the Prof. Mahmood Yakubu-led INEC to respect the Nigerian Constitution and the Electoral Law by discharging its duties as specified by the laws of the land and avoiding waste of taxpayers’ money.

“It accused INEC of working for interests that are anti-democratic and of wasting taxpayers’ money.

“INEC is gambling with the huge resources the country is spending on conducting the bye-election scheduled for August 16, 2025.

“We will not be helpless, as the law provides adequate remedies for any act or omission by the commission that shortchanges a political party or damages its image.

“A political party is expected to guard its image and reputation jealously, and the Labour Party will not take lightly any conduct by any agency or regulatory body intended to tarnish its reputation,” Ifoh stated.

Veteran Nollywood Actor, ‘Chief Kanran’ Dies

By
Akinwale Kasali
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Chief Kanran'

By Akinwale Kasali

Veteran Nollywood Actor of Yoruba genre, Segun Remi, popular as Chief Kanran is dead.

His death was announced on Friday by Film Producer and Convener of Best of Nollywood, BON, Award, Seun Oloketuyi in an Instagram post.

The cause of death is still unknown.

His colleague and Veteran actor, Yemi Solade also shared a video featuring himself, Chief Kanran and actress Jayeola Kuti, writing in the caption, “I am yet to believe he is no more.”

The 72-year-old was an Actor, Director and a Priest.

He began his acting career in the 1970s, appearing in stage plays such as; Kurunmi by Ola Rotimi and later played a role in Langbodo, Nigeria’s official entry for FESTAC’77.

He however became popular in 1988 for portraying Alaafin Kanran in a Lagos Television drama, a role that earned him the nickname Chief Kanran.

Over the years, he appeared in numerous Yoruba-language films including Vigilante, Ose-Sango, Eri Okan, Itunnu, Eewo, Idunnu, Orire, Ofa Oro, Ajaka Oko, Ayanmo, Great Bird of Eternity, Shattered Bridge, Oba Oluaiye, Bibi Ire, Ilu le and I50 Million.

He was often cast as wealthy or authoritative characters, which became a hallmark of his career.

In addition to acting, Remi directed films and was open about the challenges in the Nigerian film industry, particularly for veteran actors.

He once revealed that his office and production equipment were destroyed by fire on three separate occasions, a situation that stalled his ability to make movies.

His death comes years after he spoke publicly about the neglect faced by older Nollywood actors, a cause he championed in his later years.

His colleagues have however taken to the Social Media platform to pay tribute to the legendary actor.

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