Purported US Court Order: Presidency Fingers Opposition, Says It’s Trying To Be Relevant

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April 13, 2025

By Ayodele Oni

The Presidency has reacted in two separate statements to an alleged ruling by a United States, (US) Court in Washington DC ordering the US FBI and DEA to release reports connected with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Reacting to inquiries by Journalists, Special Adviser Media and Strategy to the President, Bayo Onanuga, remarked that: “There is nothing new to be revealed. The report by Agent Moss of the FBI and the DEA report have been in the public space for more than 30 years.

“The reports did not indict the Nigerian Leader. The lawyers are examining the ruling.”

In another reaction, Daniel Bwala, Special Adviser to President Tinubu on Policy Communication described the report as “Mischievous and politically mechanized nonsense under the guise of US Court Orders FBI and DEA to act.

“They claim the order was given on Tuesday, but it never saw the light of the media until Sunday. There is nothing these opposition under the auspices of coalition for a wild goose chase cannot try to do to keep relevance.

“They went to meet fmr. President Muhammad Buhari and it was reported that he insisted the meeting be held in or on camera so that Elrufai would not go and say Buhari is joining SDP and PDP.

“Hard as they try, they are still struggling to convince Nigerians that they have any plan at all, needless alternative plan.”

According to the Premium Times, Beryl Howell, the judge, made the order on Tuesday,

Responding to a motion by Aaron Greenspan, an American who is seeking a reconsideration of an earlier ruling, Howell said protecting the information from public disclosure is “neither logical nor plausible.”

Greenspan had accused the law enforcement agencies of violating the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) by failing to release within the statutory time “documents relating to purported federal investigations into” President Tinubu and one Abiodun Agbele.

Tinubu was said to have forfeited $460,000 to the American government in 1993 after authorities linked the funds to proceeds of narcotics trafficking.

IBB Endorses Tinubu For Second Term, Cites Leadership Skill

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Ayodele Oni

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April 13, 2025

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By Ayodele Oni

Former Military President, Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, IBB, has joined those clamouring for the reelection of President Bola Tinubu in 2027.

Babangida, who recently launched his memoir opined that “there is a strong possibility that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will secure re-election come the year 2027.”

He expressed the view that “Tinubu’s exceptional political endurance and shrewd leadership skills, could pave the way for another successful term.”

The retired General made the remark during an interview with a group of Journalists in Minna, Niger state.

“Tinubu has acquired a reputation as a maestro in the realm of political survival. Even when confronted with intense pressure, sharp criticisms, and significant hurdles, he persists in advancing his political agenda.”

Babangida emphasized that such tenacity is likely to earn the appreciation and support of the Nigerian populace.

While acknowledging the current financial reforms that pose challenges for Nigerians, Babangida remains steadfast in his belief that the advantages of Tinubu’s policies will be appreciated in the long run.

He pointed out that the hardships faced are not everlasting, stating, “I have seen governments in history undertaking challenging decisions, and I hold a firm belief that with proper patience, Nigerians will eventually witness the intended outcomes.”

Governor Nwifuru Has No Agreement With Anybody To Serve Only One Term – APC

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Suleiman Anyalewechi

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April 13, 2025

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Ebonyi State Governor - Francis Nwifuru — Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Nwifuru

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Ebonyi State Chapter of the All Progressive Congress, APC, on Sunday April 13, 2025, vehemently rejected insinuations making the round that Governor Francis Nwifuru will serve only one term in office.

The Source reports that there have been intense speculations suggesting that part of the deal that landed Governor Nwufuru his position in 2023 was for him to relinquish power in 2027.

It will be recalled that Nwifuru had served as the Speaker of the Ebonyi State House of Assembly during the Adminstration of Engr Dave Umahi, now Minister of Works.

His near absolute loyalty, and ability to place the state legislative body at the whims and caprices of then Governor Umahi ,was said to have earned him the unflinching confidence of the former Governor ,thus paving the way for him to succeed him as a reward.

However ,rumours have been rife in recent weeks ,indicating that Governor Nwifuru may have entered into an unwritten agreement with his benefactors to serve for only one term in office .

Mid last year both godfather and godson battled relentlessly to dispel rumoured rifts ,arising from disagreements over contract awards and appointments.

The speculated face off almost boiled over ,during the count down to the state’s local Council election, ,with the Nwifuru’s camp alleging a hijack of the process by loyalists of Umahi.

Although ,the two camps later withdrew to their shells,after the council polls, rumours of a resurgence in their cold war have dominated discussions within the state political space in the last few weeks.

However ,the Ebonyi APC ,in statement issued on Sunday by its spokesperson Ogbuatu Chidi Simbad ,described any claim of an agreement limiting Governor Nwifuru’s tenure to one ,as not only false ,but misleading.

He blamed the unnecessary debate over the Governor’s tenure on some outside forces bent on distracting and confusing the people.

The APC maintained that it has been the practice for every Governor in the state to serve two terms, insisting that Governor Nwifuru’s case will not be an exception.

“Let this be clear: Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru is not leaving after four years .There was no agreement to the contrary ,and any such claim is false and misleading.

“There was never any agreement to stop a man who is fulfilling destiny .Let this be clear. Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru is not leaving after four years.

“There was no agreement to the contrary, and any such claim is false and misleading.

“It is a fact that since the creation of Ebonyi State, no Governor has ever served for just one term.History supports continuity, and today is no different.

“Now a few individuals who once watched from the sideline are trying to distract and confuse the people. But their imagination only reveals the content of their own minds .Ebonyians know better”, Simbad stated.

The APC spokesman warned that the party will not be browbeaten, and will not succumb to the manipulative antics of some reactionary forces.

The party, therefore, expressed its unalloyed confidence in the abilities of Governor Nwifuru to fulfill his electioneering promises to the people,as well as take Ebonyi state to this next level.

Tompolo: Fubara Will Return As Governor

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Tosin Olatokunbo

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April 13, 2025

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Government Ekpumopolo, an ex-militant Leader has assured of the return of Governor Siminalaye Fubara to the Rivers State Government House.

The former Niger Delta militant gave the assurance during the celebrations to mark his birthday anniversary at the weekend in Gbaramatu Kingdom, Warri South-West local government area of Delta State.

Tompolo said the Ijaw Nation will ensure that the Rivers state governor is returned to office by championing a dialogue with all the parties involved in the conflict that led to the suspension of the governor.

He said the embattled governor has the support of all Ijaw people who will ensure, despite their political differences, that that their interests are pursued at all times.

He said, “One of us is stronger than twenty. Our brother, the governor of Bayelsa State, no matter our political disagreements—will always have our support.

“Even in Rivers State, our son Fubara will return to his rightful place. Dialogue and understanding will prevail.”

Recall that Governor Fubara, his Deputy, and members of the state House of Assembly were suspended last month by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Fubara’s suspension marked a tipping point in the power struggle between Governor Fubara and his earlswhule godfather, Nyesom Wike, the immediate past governor of the state and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT.

The president has since appointed Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas, a former Chief of Naval Staff as the Sole Administrator of the oil rich state.

Peter Obi Mourns Football Legends Christian Chukwu, Isiadinso

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The Source

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April 13, 2025

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Former Governor of Anambra State and Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Nigerian football legend, Christian Chukwu, describing him as one of the nation’s greatest sports icons. In a heartfelt tribute, Obi recalled Chukwu’s towering influence in Nigerian football, where he earned the affectionate nicknames “Field Marshal” and “Chairman” among fans and peers. According to him, Chukwu was not only an outstanding footballer but also an exemplary leader who captained and later coached both the national team and his cherished club, Rangers International of Enugu.

Obi praised Chukwu’s immense contributions to the beautiful game, noting that his skill, discipline, and commitment brought pride to Nigeria and joy to millions of football enthusiasts across Africa and beyond. He highlighted Chukwu’s dedication to nurturing young talents, serving as a mentor and coach even after his playing days, and playing a pivotal role in the development of football in Nigeria. Obi described the late footballer’s life marked by resilience and patriotism, asserting that his legacy would remain an inspiration for all.

Reflecting on recent losses within the football community, Obi also mourned the death of Christian Isiadinso, another captain of Rangers International, who passed away in March. He observed that both Chukwu and Isiadinso sacrificed immensely for the advancement of sports and the nation at large. Offering his condolences, Obi extended his prayers to the bereaved families, the football fraternity, and the entire nation, hoping that God would grant the departed eternal rest and that their legacies would continue to inspire future generations of Nigerian athletes.

FG Imposes 10 Year Visa Ban, $25 Fine, On Foreigners Who Overstay

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Akinwale Kasali

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April 13, 2025

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By Akinwale Kasali

The Federal Government has slammed a fine of $15 daily and 10 Years Visa Ban on Foreigners Who Overstay in Nigeria.

The strict immigration penalties is targeted at expatriates who overstay their visas. Those who overstay beyond six months will face a five-year entry ban, while a one-year overstay will attract a 10-year ban.

According to the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, the penalty will take effect from August 1, 2025.

Tunji-Ojo announced this while unveiling the Ministry of Interior’s new Expatriate Administration System during a meeting with the Organised Private Sector and other stakeholders at the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association House in Ikeja, Lagos.

Among the reforms set to roll out from May 1 are the automated Landing and Exit Cards, Electronic Visa, Expatriate Comprehensive Insurance, and an upgraded Combined Expatriate Resident Permit and Alien Card.

Others include the Temporary Residence Visa, Temporary Work Permit, and revised Expatriate Quota system.

He said the measures are aimed to curb visa overstays and obtain accurate data on expatriates in Nigeria.

“Our records indicate fewer than 50,000 expatriates in Nigeria which we know is inaccurate. We need to establish the true number of foreigners living in the country. A nation without reliable data cannot progress, as data is the foundation of effective planning,” he said.

Under the new system, the Minister explained that Landing and Exit Cards would be automated, adding that expatriates must exit the country on or before their visa expiry date and apply for extensions only from outside Nigeria.

“This is serious. We’re not introducing anything new regarding the landing and exit card, just automating the current paper-based process. In a country of over 230 million intelligent, tech-savvy people, we shouldn’t be using paper cards. Going forward, you must complete your landing and exit cards online,” he added.

Tunji-Ojo added that the automated process would help track overstayers.

The Minister said, “If you overstay, there will be consequences. Overstaying by six months attracts a five-year ban; one year attracts a 10-year ban. There is also a $15 daily overstay penalty.

People claim to be visiting Nigeria for two weeks but stay for 30 years working — that must end.

“While the new measures take effect from May 1, a three-month moratorium will be given to allow expatriates to regularise their status before strict enforcement begins in August.”

According to the Minister, the new Electronic Visa system, also launching May 1, will allow applicants to obtain visas within 48 hours.

This replaces the existing visa-on-arrival regime, which he described as vulnerable to corruption and influence-peddling.

“We’re introducing the e-visa to make access to Nigeria easier for tourists and business travelers. Globally, population equals market, and we want to open our borders to legitimate opportunities.

“The e-visa eliminates bottlenecks. No more lobbying. It’s a seamless and secure system,” Tunji-Ojo stated.

He further announced the introduction of an annual Expatriate Comprehensive Insurance policy.

“We spend billions annually on repatriation. Just a month ago, we had exhausted our yearly budget and had to request an extra N25m.

That money should be used to build infrastructure, not deport individuals. We needed a sustainable solution,” he said.

The Minister explained that instead of demanding a lump sum for repatriation, which could exceed $10,000, the government had opted for a mandatory insurance policy.

“All over the world, there’s personal liability insurance. Your stay here should benefit both you and the host country — not leave Nigeria worse off.

The Expatriate Comprehensive Insurance is now mandatory and will be paid annually along with the CERPAC,” he said.

Federal High Court Judges To Proceed on Easter Vacation

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Ayodele Oni

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April 13, 2025

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By Ayodele Oni

Judges of the Federal High Court of Nigeria have announced that they will be proceeding on 13 days Easter vacation as from Wednesday, April 16.

The Easter holiday will last till Monday April 28, 2025, while the judges are to formally resume work on Tuesday April 29, 2025.

According to a circular signed by the Chief Judge of the Court, Justice John Terhemba Tsoho, three critical divisions of the court shall however be opened to attend to emergency cases only.

A press statement notifying the general public of the Court’s holiday was signed by Dr Catherine Oby Christopher, the

Director of Information of the Court.

The statement reads “The Federal High Court of Nigeria shall proceed on its Easter Vacation from Wednesday the 16th day of April, 2025 to Monday the 28th day of April, 2025.

“This is Pursuant to the provisions of Order 46, Rule 4 (C) of the Federal High Court (Civil Procedure) Rules, 2019 (as amended).

“The Court resumes sitting on Tuesday, 29th April, 2025 in all Judicial Divisions.

“During the vacation period, the Abuja, Lagos and Port-Harcourt core Judicial Divisions shall remain open to the public only for cases of extreme urgency.

“It is important to note that during the vacation, only matters relating to enforcement of fundamental rights; arrest or release of vessels and matters that concern dire National Interest are to be entertained by Vacation Judges.”

The statement indicated that Justices Emeka Nwite and Musa Sulaiman Liman will serve as vacation judges for Abuja judicial division while Justices Akintayo Aluko and Isaac I. Dipeolu will hold forth for Lagos division.

The Port Harcourt division is to have

Justices Phoebe M. Ayua and Adamu T. Mohammed as vacation judges.

It advised vacation judges and heads of divisions to promptly refer to the chief judge all matters which they believe may require his urgent attention and directives.

LG Election: ” Why We Don’t Want Obasa’s Son As Chairman” – Agege LGA Stakeholders Write Tinubu

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Akinwale Kasali

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April 13, 2025

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By Akinwale Kasali

As race for Lagos State Local Council Election intensifies, the All Progressives Congress, APC, Stakeholders in Agege Local Government Area have written to President Bola Tinubu over alleged plot by Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, to impose his Son, Abdulganiyu Obasa, as the next Chairman of Agege Local Government.

As the tenure of Jelili Egunjobi, incumbent Chairman of the Local Government, is coming to an end in a few months, many aspirants are jostling to get the APC Chairmanship ticket ahead of the LG Election.

Obasa, it is gathered has been heating up the polity with his plan to impose his Son as the next Chairman of the LG.

The Stakeholders stated that Abdulganiyu Obasa is a political novice and paperweight, who remains unknown to the Local Party base and lacks any previous political experience or exposure.

They added that Abdulganiyu has no political antecedent. His sole hope is that his father will subvert the system in his favour.

The Agege Stakeholders stated that it is not acceptable, stressing that the push back from loyal and long suffering party members may degenerate into unnecessary and consequencial crises in the LG.

In a letter to President Tinubu by the Stakeholders titled, “AN OPEN LETTER OF CONCERN TO HIS EXCELLENCY PRESIDENT BOLA AHMED TINUBU AND THE LEADERSHIP OF ALL PROGRESSIVE CONGRESS IN LAGOS STATE”, signed by President of Agege Political Stakeholders Group, Moshood Oguntuase, on behalf of the Group said that the reckless decision by Obasa is unpopular and prominent stakeholders are already dissociating themselves from it.

They added that Obasa’s ingratitude and impunity is provocative and repugnant to the omoluabi ethos and moral code of decent Agege folks, urging President Tinubu to sanction Obasa.

“The Youths and other critical stakeholder of APC in Agege Local Government and beyond are determined to stand strong and to stand tall and ensure that new faces are given the opportunity to contest, emerge and contribute their quota to society via a level playing field and transparent primaries. This is the crux of the matter.

“Your Excellency, Mr President, we the Concerned Citizens of Agege with deep humility and utmost respect hereby appeal for your firm intervention in this critical matter. Your love for Youths and humanity including the capacity to transform them into great leaders is not in doubt. Hence our abiding resolve to remain your critical foot soldiers anytime and anywhere, always standing on your sacred mandate. Sir, we are grateful for your timely intervention”.

It would be recalled that Obasa was enmeshed in crisis with his fellow Lawmakers in the Assembly leading to his removal as Speaker on January 13th, 2025.

He was accused of Gross Misconduct, high handedness, abuse of power and financial misappropriation.

The intervention of President Tinubu led to his reinstatement as Speaker of LAHA, but nothing has been the same in the Assembly since his reinstatement.

Ondo Police Command Investigates DPO Accused Of Extortion, Redeploys Him

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Ayodele Oni

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April 13, 2025

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By Ayodele Oni

Ondo State Police Command has redeployed a Divisional Police Officer, (DPO) accused of high-handedness and extortion at his duty post.

Residents of Igbara Oke, the headquarters of Ifedore Local Government Area had embark on protest over alleged gross misconduct and extortion by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO), Ganiyu Daudu.

The protesters barricaded the main road, causing a serious gridlock, and carried leaf branches while chanting “DPO Olè,” meaning “DPO is a thief

According to the protesters, led by youth leader Owoeye Mayowa, DPO Daudu has been extorting residents of Igbara Oke on multiple occasions.

Mayowa alleged that the DPO collects exorbitant amounts of money from individuals that have cases at the police station, even if they are civil cases. The protesters claimed that Daudu has been collecting between N200,000 and N800,000 from people whose cases were brought to the Police Station.

A statement on Sunday by the Command’s Spokesman, Ayankade Olusola, stated that “The Ondo State Police Command is aware of a viral video circulating on social media in which the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Igbaraoke is being publicly accused and referred to as “ole” (thief) by aggrieved individuals during a heated altercation.

“In response to the video and the serious nature of the allegations, the Commissioner of Police, CP Wilfred Olutokunbo Afolabi, has ordered an immediate and thorough investigation into the incident to determine the circumstances surrounding the confrontation and to uphold the integrity of the Nigeria Police Force.

“Preliminary findings indicate that the incident stemmed from a disagreement between the DPO and certain members of the local community.

“The matter has since been amicably resolved following the timely intervention of the Igbaraoke Local Government Chairman, who facilitated dialogue and de-escalation between the parties involved.

“In line with internal protocols and to ensure impartiality in the ongoing investigation, the DPO has been redeployed from Igbaraoke Division pending the outcome of the inquiry.

“The Ondo State Police Command reiterates its commitment to transparency, accountability, and community trust. Members of the public are urged to remain calm and allow due process to take its course.”

Edo Police Command Reveals Identity Of Four Armed Hunters Arrested By Security Network

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Ayodele Oni

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April 13, 2025

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By Ayodele Oni

As the dust raised by the killing of some Hausa hunters in Edo State is yet to settle, the State Police Command has announced that another set of four hunters, who came from Kano State, were intercepted by operatives of the Edo Security Network with arms and ammunition.

Police Public Relations Officer, Edo State Command, Moses Yamu, disclosed this in a statement made available to newsmen late Saturday night.

The statement stated that the dislcosure became necessary in order to dispel the misinformation currently ongoing on social media that four herdsmen armed with guns were arrested at a hotel in the State and handed over to the Police.

According to the statement, contrary to the report, those apprehended were hunters and not herdsmen.

In the statement, the suspects were named as Yusuf Abdulkarim, Mujaheed Garba, Shittu Idris, and Jamilu Habibu.

Items recovered from them include three dane guns, six empty cartridges, three half-filled cartridges, four cutlasses and two daggers.

“The Edo State Police Command is aware of misinformation on social media that four herdsmen armed with guns were arrested at Americanus Hotel on Osemwenkhae Street after Big Joe Motors, Ramat Park, Orogbeni Quarters and handed over to the police.

“The command wishes to inform the general public that four suspects: Yusuf Abdulkarim, Mujaheed Garba, Shittu Idris, and Jamilu Habibu, intercepted by a member of the Edo Security Network with three Dane guns, six empty cartridges, three half-filled cartridges, four cutlasses and two daggers were swiftly taken over by officers from the Ikpoba Hill Police Station.

“Preliminary investigation reveals that they are hunters, not herdsmen. They were from Doguwa in Kano State, heading to Uvbe community in Orhionwon Local Government Area of Edo State. Meanwhile, an investigation is ongoing.”