“It’s Hypocritical Of NFF To Mourn Christian Chukwu” – Amiesimaka

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April 14, 2025

By Akinwale Kasali

The death of former Super Eagles Captain and Coach, Christian Chukwu has seen several personalities, including President Bola Tinubu, Governors, Football administrators, business moguls and fans alike paying condolences and eulogizing him for his impact on the nation’s football enclave.

However, his former teammate and friend, Adokiye Amiesimaka, a Port Harcourt – based Lawyer, has reservations over the sorrow over his passing by the leadership of the Nigeria Football Federation, NFF.

Reacting to Chukwu’s passing, Amiesimaka said: “Chukwu lived his life, my condolences. I will reach out to the family. But what I detest is the hypocrisy of the Nigeria Football Federation, NFF.

“I read somewhere that they were expressing sorrow. That’s utter rubbish, they are not sincere.

“Do you know they were owing him? Except he was paid recently, they owed him for years; his due reward for services rendered, and they have the audacity to express grief over his death. What a shame.

“For me, I am happy I had the opportunity of knowing him and playing alongside him at the national team and we had an excellent relationship.

Christian Chukwu is dead — Late Christian Chukwu

“Even after football, we enjoyed a wonderful relationship. I even represented him in some legal matters here in Port Harcourt.

“It is always sad when one loses a friend but I want to dwell on the fact that we had sweet memories then as members of the Green Eagles. We had a wonderful experience and I am happy we won the Africa Cup of Nations in 1980 for the first time 45 years ago.

“I thank God for that privilege”, Amiesimaka stated.

In the same vein, Sylvanus Okpala, another member of the 1980 Green Eagles squad said, Chukwu’s passage was a sad story.

“It’s so unfortunate that Chukwu has passed on. When Onochie Anibeze buried his mother February, we were all there together, singing and dancing.”

Okpala said he would remember Chukwu as a gentleman. “I never saw him quarrel with anybody since the first day I knew him.”

Continuing, Okpala said Chukwu was one of the finest footballers he has ever met.

“As a defender he was very calculative. An attacker could hardly beat him. And he was a free kick specialist too.”

He recalled that the late Chukwu made Enugu Rangers what it is today.

“He joined Rangers in 1973 and grew through the ranks to become the face of Rangers and a national icon. We have lost him.”

State Of Emergency: National Assembly Moves To Checkmate Administrator, Ibas

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Suleiman Anyalewechi

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April 14, 2025

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By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The House of Representatives will, on Tuesday, AWill,, 2025, inaugurate a-19 member Committee to monitor and supervise the Emergency Rule in Rivers State.

President Bola Tinubu had, on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, appointed retired Vice Admiral Ibok- Ete Ibas as the Sole Administrator of the State, after imposing a six- month State of Emergency. He suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his Deputy and the State Assembly Lawmakers.

However, apart from the development not going down well, with a large number of the Nigerian people ,the conducts of the Administrator since assuming office, have raised so much questions about his motives.

Particularly, his decisions to prepare a new 2025 budget estimate, the dissolution and reconstitution of some Boards and Parastatals including that of the River state Independent Electoral Commission, and the appointment of interim leadership for the State’s 23 Local Councils, not a few believe, are clear signs that the Administrator has overstepped his bounds as a place-holder.

The Constitution of the monitoring committee is coming on the House of Representatives open condemnation of Ibas plan to prepare a fresh the 2025 appropriation bill for the state

The Deputy chairman of the House Committee on Information last week cautioned Admiral Ibas against ,going against the terms and conditions of the emergency rule as spelt out by the Federal law makers.

He pointedly reminded the Administrator that his mandate does not include the preparation of a fresh budget estimate.

In a statement issued on Sunday by the chairman of the House Committee on information ,Akintunde Rotimi , the monitoring committee is to be headed by the Majority Leader Prof Julius Ihonvbere.

Other members of the Committee include the Minority Whip (Vice chairman) Deputy Chief Whip ,Rt Hon Idris Wase, ,leader of the North East caucus Hon Aliyu Muktar Betera and Hon Sada Soli ,the leader of the North West caucus,as well as others.

According to the statement ,the primary assignment of the Committee is to ensure that the emergency rule in Rivers state is implemented strictly in a accordance with the resolution of the House during the approval of the the emergency proclamation by the President.

The Secretariat of the Committee is to be manned by the Chief of Staff to the Speaker Prof Jake Dan-Azumi.

” The Proclamation presented to the National Assembly by Mr president was subjected to rigorous legislative consideration ,and duly amended to strengthen democratic safeguards ,and uphold the principles of check and balance.

One of the most consequential amendments was the designation of the National Assembly — rather than the Federal Executive Council ,as the oversight authority for all regulations issued under the emergency arrangement.

In line with Section 5 of the State of Emergency ( Rivers State) proclamation of ,2025 ,and pursuant to Section 11,(4) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria ,the House has constituted a dedicated Ad-Hoc Committee to monitor the implementation and ensure that governance in the state remains within the bounds of Constitutionalism and rule of law”, the statement partly read.

It’s Premature To Campaign For President Tinubu Ahead of 2027 – Presidency, Disowns Billboards

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Ayodele Oni

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April 13, 2025

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By Ayodele Oni

The Presidency has disowned campaign billboards promoting President Bola Tinubu and vice, Kashim Shettima.

It explained that it is too early to campaign for 2027 as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is yet to set timetable for the next general elections.

The statement, signed by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser Media and Strategy to the President stated that such billboards are cited in Abuja and Kano.

The statement reads: “The Presidency has observed, with dismay, the increasing number of billboards in some cities promoting the 2027 campaign for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima.

“Worth noting is that some of these billboards with pictures of the President and his wife, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, emblazoned on them are springing up in Abuja and Kano in particular.

“While President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima greatly appreciate their teeming and loyal supporters across the country for their enthusiasm and continuing support, the two leaders do not support any campaign that breaches the laws of the land.

“The electoral law that guides the conduct of elections and political campaigns forbids any form of campaign for the 2027 general elections.

“Premature campaigning can undermine the integrity of the electoral process and create unfair advantages. As law-abiding leaders, President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima do not support any action that undermines our institutions and the electoral process.

“Until the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) sets the timetable for the 2027 elections, the President has not endorsed or authorised anyone or any group to mount a 2027 campaign for him through any media channel—be it Out-of-Home, print, digital, radio, or television.

“Therefore, we urgently call on individuals and groups funding this 2027 political campaign through the ongoing deployment of materials on billboards nationwide to cease immediately.

“President Tinubu and his deputy are fully committed to delivering the ongoing task of nation-building they have set for themselves.

“This commitment is evident in their focus on economic revitalisation, human capital development, infrastructural renewal, social investment, and national security.

“When INEC signals that the processes for the 2027 elections can start, President Tinubu will duly inform Nigerians of his plans.”

Emergency Rule: Prof Ihonvbere Cmte To Perform Rivers House Of Assembly Functions

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Tosin Olatokunbo

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April 13, 2025

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The House of Representatives has appointed an adhoc-committee to perform the duties of the Rivers State House of Assembly. The Committee is headed by Prof Julius Ihonvbere, and will be inaugurated on Tuesday April 15, 2025.

Apart from Prof. Ihomvbere, other members of the committee include, Abiodun Faleke, Amos Daniel, Erhiatake Ibori-Suenu and Blessing Onuh, Isiaka Ibrahim, Idris Wase, Muktar Betara, and Sada Soli.

The committee members also include, Iduma Igariwey, Shehu Rijau, Oluwole Oke, Etinosa Amadi, Patrick Umoh. James Barka, Alex Egbona, Isa Anka and Fatima Talba.

In a statement issued on Sunday, its spokesman for the House, Akin Rotimi noted that the House of representatives said the decision is in line with its powers under the Nigerian Constitution.

The house of representatives said it will do everything in its powers to strengthen democracy in the country, saying this was what the lawmakers demonstrated by subjecting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Emergency Rule Proclamation to rigorous process before it was approved.

The Reps said they will ensure that rule of law, transparency accountability are followed in the interest of the people of the state.

Recall that President Tinubu had on March 18, 2025 declared a State of Emergency in the state following months of power struggle between the governor of the state, Siminalaye Fubara, and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, the current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT.

The statement said in part, “One of the most consequential amendments was the designation of the National Assembly – rather than the Federal Executive Council – as the oversight authority for all regulations issued under the emergency arrangement.

“In line with Section 5 of the State of Emergency (Rivers State) Proclamation, 2025, and pursuant to Section 11(4) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the House has constituted a dedicated ad-hoc committee to monitor implementation and ensure that governance in the state remains within the bounds of constitutionalism and rule of law.”

Recall that President Tinubu had while imposing the Emergency Rule suspended Governor Fubara, his Deputy and members of the State House of Assembly, said he took the action to stop the state from rolling into violence, as a result of the clashes between the contending parties.

The president’s action has however been trenchantly criticised by his critics some of who contend that he lacked the powers to suspend democratically elected officials in the state.

Patience Jonathan, Honoured With Global Women’s Peace Ambassador Award

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The Source

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April 13, 2025

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Former Nigerian First Lady, Dame (Dr.) Patience Jonathan has been decorated with the Global Women’s Peace Ambassador Award by the Women’s Federation for World Peace International (WFWPI), a global organisation promoting peace and women’s empowerment with offices across the world.

WFWPI International President, Mrs. Moriko Hori, who conferred the honour on Mrs Jonathan and other awardees, including serving and former First Ladies from across the world, at a ceremony in Seoul, South Korea, stated that it was in recognition of her work towards promoting peace, advocating for women’s rights as well as her remarkable service to humanity.

In her acceptance speech, Mrs. Jonathan pledged to continue advocating for women’s rights, peace building, and social justice, even as she called on others to join the noble cause.

Describing the award as “a reminder that our work is far from over”, she vowed to continue advocating for women’s rights, peace building, and social justice, even as she called on others to join the noble cause.

“This award is not just recognition of my work; it is a call to action. I accept it with a renewed commitment to serve as a beacon of hope and a catalyst for positive change.”

She stated further: “As a former First Lady, I have had the privilege of championing initiatives that uplift the most vulnerable members of our society, particularly women and children. Through my philanthropic work, I witnessed firsthand the transformative power of education.

“I am deeply humbled to receive this prestigious Global Women Peace Ambassador Award. I accept this honour, not just as a personal recognition, but as a testament to the tireless efforts of countless women and men who have worked alongside me to promote peace, empowerment, and development in Nigeria and beyond.”

She further thanked her family for their unwavering support, “particularly my children and lovely husband His Excellency Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, former President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, who has been with me through thick and thin.”

She also expressed her gratitude to Nigerian women and particularly thanked the “First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Her Excellency Senator Oluremi Tinubu who has been a great source of encouragement.” Again, I most warmly appreciate my fellow Africans especially African Women for their unending sacrifices in building peaceful and progressive societies

Speaking further, Mrs. Jonathan commended the organisers recognizing the invaluable contributions of women in peace building and pledged to “continue to push boundaries, challenge stereotypes, and foster inclusive communities where every individual could thrive.”

Chris Okeke
Media Adviser to H.E. Dame (Dr) Patience Jonathan
First Lady, Federal Republic of Nigeria (2010-20150

Tinubu’s Ally, Igbokwe Says Igbo Are Marginalized

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Tosin Olatokunbo

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April 13, 2025

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A former All Progressives Congress, APC, in Lagos state, Joe Igbokwe says the marginalisation of the south east in the political and resources sharing will not portend well for the country.

The APC chieftain gave the warning in a post he shared on his verified facebook page on Saturday.

He spoke amidst the recent criticism of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s alleged lopsided federal appointments. The president has been attacked by his critics for appointing predominantly south west persons into key government positions.

Igbokwe is a close ally of President Tinubu.

The presidency has however debunked the allegation saying appointments are based on merit, adding that the resources of the country are evenly distributed.

According to Igbokwe, many years after the end of the Nigerian Civil War the south east has yet to be fully integrated back into the country, as its people still suffer marginalisation. If the situation persists, he said, it will not augur well for the country.

He expressed deep concern over what he described as systemic neglect of the region in national matters.

Igbokwe said, “If Nigeria continues to treat the South-East as if the zone does not exist or does not matter, the consequences will be huge.

“The civil war has ended, but the scars are still there. Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere. Neglect of SE is bad.”

In a swift defence of the federal government’s appointments, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, in a statement last week said, the president’s appointments are based on fairness and its dedication to national unity.

The federal government said the president has been guided by the Federal Character principle as well as the Nigerian Constitution. The statement was signed by Segun Imohiosen, Director of Information and Public Relations in the SGF Office.

The statement reads, “The Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF) wishes to address recent insinuations circulating, particularly on social media, regarding the composition of Federal appointments.

“The Government categorically refutes claims of lopsidedness and emphasizes its unwavering commitment to the principles of fairness, equity, and national unity. All appointments are made in strict adherence to the federal character principle, as enshrined in Section 14 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as altered).

“It is notable to mention that His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, believes strongly in the unity of Nigeria and is guided by the ideals of fairness and tenets of justice in all appointments. This Administration is dedicated to ensuring that all regions and demographics of the country are adequately represented in its institutions and agencies.”

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

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Ayodele Oni

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April 13, 2025

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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.