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Rivers Pipeline Explosion: Investigation Ongoing – Police

By
Suleiman Anyalewechi
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Explosion at NNPC Buguma Community, Asari-Toru

By Suleiman Anyalewchi

The Rivers State Police Command, on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, assured that the public will be properly briefed on the explosion that occurred at the Trans-Niger Pipeline in Bodo, Gokana Local Council of Rivers state .

This is even as the officials of the oil regulatory industry are still trying to determine the cause(s) of the massive explosion that is mos likely affect the nation’s crude oil export.

The explosion which occurred late Monday night March, 17, 2025, is believed to have considerably affected the oil facility with officials and firefighters still battling to put out the inferno as at Tuesday afternoon.

However, industry officials are currently investigating the possible causes of the explosion which came on the heels of threats from some militant groups to sabotage oil exploration activities in the face of impeachment moves against Governor Siminalayi Fubara.

The Source reports that many youth groups and Ijaw ethnic nationality organizations have warned of severe consequences both for the peace of Rivers State and crude oil exploration activities in the Niger Delta Region should Governor Fubara be humiliated out of office.

The festering frosty  relationship between the pro-Wike (Nyesom Wike, FCT Minister) dominated State House of Assembly, and the Governor on Monday, March, 17, heightened with the Lawmakers formally serving the Governor and his Deputy with  impeachment notices

The impeachment notice  climaxed days of intense bickering between the two arms of Government in the State which was ignited by the Supreme Court’s decision which gave back life to the 27 pro-Wike Legislators nearly two years of being in the wilderness.

The Supreme Court’s decision to also withhold the monthly Federation Allocations to both the Rivers State Government and the 23 Local Councils, have greatly served to significantly raise the political temperature of the State

The affected pipeline is said to be one of the crucial facilities that serve to pump crude into the Bonny Terminal for export.

Spokesperson for the State Police Command, Grace Iringe-Koko, while confirming the incident informed that investigations are under way to establish the causes of the explosion.

According to her, there is scanty information about the incident. She promised  to provide an update as soon findings are concluded.

Ondo: Police Command Nabs Cyclist Who Supplies Food To Kidnapped Victims

By
Ayodele Oni
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Wilfred Afolabi - Ondo CP

By Ayodele Oni

The Ondo State Police Command has recorded a major breakthrough in its war against banditry and other criminals.  The Command has burst some major hideouts used for unlawful activities.

It also announced the arrest of some suspected kidnappers and their footmen.

The Commissioner of Police in Ondo State, Wilfred Afolabi, made this known during an interaction with Journalists in Akure.

Afolabi disclosed that “On the 24th of February, 2025, joint effort of the Police and local Vigilantes at Owo led to the arrest of one Abdullahi Mallam Bala ‘m’ age 21 years, he could not give satisfactory account of what he was doing in the bush alone without being a nomad or having any reason to be in there.

“Further investigation revealed that he is one of the suspect on the run, who is part of the syndicate of Ibrahim Dan Alh Umaru, who was arrested earlier in the year and his name has reoccurred in kidnapping related cases.

“On the 22nd of February, 2025, the Police(Special Squad) through the use of technical support arrested one Komolafe Sunday a.k.aVeego ‘m’ age 39years.

“During interrogation, he confessed to be a motorcyclist who helps the kidnappers to get food for their victims while in custody and received money base on the number of people kidnapped.

“He also serves as spy to inform them of movements along the road. The suspect led the Police to Akunu-Akoko and two suspects Umaru Abubakar Sanda ‘m’ and Yusuf Ahmadu were arrested. Umaru Abubakar confessed to be the one who guard victims in the forest when they were brought to base.

“Further interrogation led to the arrest of LekanTemitope a.k.a legelege who is also a motorcyclist that works for the kidnappers.

“In the same vein, on  14th of March, 2025, the Police through coordinated intelligence led Policing arrested the duo of Ridwan Salisu ‘m’ aged 45year and Umar Isyaku ‘m’ aged 19, at Ipele ‘m’ in connection with a case of kidnapping.

“The sum of three Million Six Hundred and Fourteen Thousand Naira (₦3,614,000.00) was found in possession of the duo. Salisu claimed the money was for POS. Investigation is ongoing to confirm if the money is a proceed of ransom paid by victims

“As part of the Command’s effort to rid the State of all forms of criminality, the Command organized coordinated raids of areas in Ondo town through the Special Anti-Cultism Squad. The team busted various hideouts on the 15th of March, 2025, where the following suspects were arrested.”

He further revealed that during the raid four suspects were arrested.

“On 14th of March, 2025 one Samuel Friday was caught by members of the public vandalizing transformer along Ilu-Abo, Ogbese area of Ondo State and handed him over to the Police.

“During interrogation, he confessed to have been vandalizing electrical transformer since 2016 and that he has been jailed three times before he was finally released in 2018.

“He however confessed that he do sell stolen electrical cables removed from uncompleted/abandoned buildings to one Alhaji Abubakar A.k.a Abu Shisha and one Alhaji SheuSabo residing in Akure, Ondo State. Efforts is ongoing to arrest the receivers.

“Also, on Monday, March 18, 2025, midnight patrol team at Adinlewa apprehended one Iyanu John (male), a suspect whose specialty is in stealing and destruction of public infrastructure. The suspect was caught in possession of two stolen solar panels and was immediately taken into custody.”

Explosion Rocks Oil Pipeline In Rivers State

By
Adesina Soyooye
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Explosion at NNPC Buguma Community, Asari-Toru

By Adesina Soyooye

It is not known yet whether it is a coincidence or a fallout from the political crisis in Rivers State. But a massive explosion has rocked a major oil pipeline in the State.

Hit is the Trans-Niger Pipeline at Bodo, Gokana Local Government Area.

The pipeline, a major transport route, was engulfed in flames and wild plumes of smoke.

The explosion came on the heels of threats and counter-threats over the political crisis in Rivers State. There had been threats by a couple of aggrieved groups that oil production  in the State would be disrupted if the Federal Government carries out the Supreme Court’s ruling which stopped the monthly Federation Account Allocation to the State.

The Supreme Court had, on February 28, 2025, in a major ruling on the crisis, ordered the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, and the Accountant General of the Federation, to stop the funds due to the State  until Governor Siminalayi Fubara re-presents the 2025 Budget to the whole House of Assembly headed by Speaker Martin Amaewfule. The Governor had, in the wake of the now-denied defection of 27 members of Assembly from the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP,  to the All Progressive Congress, APC, presented the Budget before a four-member House led by then factional Speaker, Victor Oko-Jumbo.

However, all efforts by Fubara to fulfill the Court’s order have been frustrated by the Assembly members who, instead, served him and his Deputy, letters of impeachment after the Speaker adjourned the House indefinitely.

Other groups, mainly from Ijaw, had, also, warned of the consequences of impeaching Fubara, the first Ijaw to govern the State in 24 years.

The extent of the damage of the explosion which hit the pipeline Monday night is still being assessed. Whatever, not a few people see it as a bad omen and, perhaps, a harbinger of more of such ugly incidents if the crisis situation is not quickly checked.

Rivers Crisis: Peter Obi Weighs-in, Advises Combatants

By
The Source
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Peter Obi

The 2023 Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has weighed into the raging power tussle in Rivers State and wants the warring leaders to think about the poor in the state.

In a long tweet on Tuesday on the crisis, Obi noted that the situation in Rivers is an example of how not to use democracy to serve the people

“It is unfortunate that 60 years after independence and nearly 30 years of our celebrated unbroken civil rule, our democracy is still marred by undemocratic practices and values.

“A significant percentage of our elections are deeply flawed—manipulated to serve the interests of a select few rather than reflecting the true will of the people.

“Governance at most levels does not reflect the genuine values and aspirations of the people because the welfare of the citizens is often neglected in practice.

“Looking at the ongoing crisis in Rivers State, we see yet another glaring example of how our democracy and governance are not serving its purpose, the welfare of the people of River State. The disagreement is not about improving the measurable indices of development: education, healthcare, or lifting people out of poverty but rather for reasons that do not in any way benefit the people of Rivers State and Nigeria in general.

“I fully understand the impact of what is happening in Rivers State. The real losers are the people—their welfare and the future of the society their children will live in.

“My respectful appeal to all those involved is to reconsider their positions and reflect on the grace God has bestowed upon them as leaders. They must think about the suffering people of Rivers State and work towards a better future for their children.

“My commitment remains to continuously remember them in earnest prayers and to advocate for their well-being. I also appeal to well-meaning Nigerians and the Federal Government, in the spirit of true democracy and good governance, to use their offices to restore normalcy and bring an end to this crisis.

A new Nigeria is POssible!

AFC Backs +234Art Fair, 260 Artists Set To Showcase Cutting-Edge Artworks

By
James Orji
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AFC President Zubairu

Africa Finance Corporation, AFC, the leading infrastructure solutions provider in Africa, has announced its support for the +234Art Fair, coming on as partners for the second year in a row. This aligns with the Corporation’s commitment to empowering and elevating the continent’s youth, with more than 260 young artists expressing interest in exhibiting their works at the second edition of the international art fair, organized by Soto Gallery in collaboration with Ecobank Nigeria Limited, AFC and Craneburg Construction Company.

This meticulously curated five-day event, titled “Championing Patronage in Nigerian Art,” will feature the works of emerging and un-galleried artists. The fair will run from March 27th to March 31st at the Ecobank Pan African Centre, located at 270B1, Ozumba Mbadiwe Avenue, Victoria Island, starting daily at 10:00 AM.

Samaila Zubairu, President & CEO of the Africa Finance Corporation, stated, “The +234Art Fair aligns with AFC’s advocacy strategy of empowering and elevating Africa’s youthful population, thereby fostering job creation, skills development, value retention and rapid economic growth. We are proud to continue our collaboration with Ecobank to help drive Africa’s creative industry forward by creating a catalyst for promoting African art and artists locally and on the global stage.”

Bolaji Lawal, Managing Director and Regional Executive, Ecobank Nigeria, shared, “As a Pan-African bank, this fair is an important initiative in our commitment to economic growth and investing in Africa’s next generation of talent. It offers emerging artists a unique opportunity to showcase their works to key decision-makers, influencers, and a global audience.”

Mrs. Tola Akerele, Founder of +234 Art Fair and Soto Gallery Foundation, emphasized, “Patronage in the art world goes beyond financial support; it’s about building relationships that allow artists to grow and sustain their creative practices. The 2025 edition of the +234 Art Fair aims to show how meaningful support can impact an artist’s journey and the broader art ecosystem, fostering essential connections along the way.”

The +234 Art Fair celebrates the dynamic talent of Nigeria’s emerging artists, offering them a vital platform to share their work with a broader audience. Visitors will experience a wide range of artistic expressions, including painting, sculpture, visual and digital art, installations, and more. The fair will also feature interactive workshops, panel discussions, and networking opportunities for artists, art enthusiasts, and key stakeholders in the creative sector.

The event is expected to draw a diverse group of attendees, including Nigerians, Africans, international residents, government officials, policymakers, diplomats, and global art lovers.

SDP Is A ‘Branch’ Of APC, Kwakwanso Will Not Join- NNPP Chieftain Galadima

By
James Orji
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The 2023 Presidential candidature of the New Nigerian Peoples Party, NNPP Rabiu Kwakwnso will not defect to the Social Democratic Party, SDP, according to Buba Galadima, a chieftain of the party.

Galadima, a close ally of the former presidential candidate of the party and former governor of Kano state disclosed that the SDP is just an extension of the ruling All Progressives Party, APC, and that his party and supporters will have nothing to do with it.

His comment comes after Sule Lamido, a former governor of Jigawa state said he was not prepared to join the SDP, saying it’s an insult for him to defect from the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP.

The NNPP chieftain spoke on Arise TV programme, ‘The Morning Show’ on Tuesday, saying the plan of the promoters of the SDP is to ‘decimate’ the opposition.

“The SDP is simply a fictionalised branch of the APC. How many non-APC members have defected to the SDP? The APC’s character is to decimate opposition. We must start opposing based on principles, even if it means standing alone. The NNPP is a party of principle and will not enter into coalitions for their own sake,” Galadima said.

His remark comes days after  Nasir El Rufai, a former governor of Kaduna state, defected to the SDP from APC, he also called on key opposition leaders in the country such as the 2023 PDP presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi of the Labour Party, and Kwakwanso to join him in his new party, to wrestle power from the ruling party.

The magazine reported that the former governor defected from the ruling party last week following months of attacking President Tinubu and APC. El rufai’s critics insist that his fight with the party, and his eventually defection may not be unconnected with his failure to make President Tinubu’s cabinet as a minister.

Following his defection to SDP, the former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, appealed to opposition leaders in the country to for a coalition to oust President Tinubu from power, urging them not to form a new party as has been speculated in some qaurters.

“My wish and prayers are that Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Rotimi Amaechi, Rauf Aregbesola and all opposition leaders come and join SDP, not to do a merger or to register a new political party,” he said.

LAHA Crisis: Speaker Obasa Defiant, Fails To Withdraw Case In Court

By
Akinwale Kasali
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Mudashiru Obasa

By Akinwale Kasali

Reinstated Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, has refused to withdraw the suit he filed in Court against his Deputy, Mojisola Meranda and 33 Lawmakers over his impeachment on January 13th, 2025.

Despite the alleged order by President Bola Tinubu that Obasa should Withdraw the case from the High Court in Lagos with immediate effect, he failed to do so.

The Lagos State High Court which is hearing the case was yet to receive any withdrawal notice from Obasa’s lawyer as of Monday, March 17th, 2025.

On Monday at the continuation of hearing, Justice Yetunde Pinheiro rejected an application Obasa to change the Legal Representation of the Lagos State House of Assembly.

The Judge ruled that Femi Falana, SAN, will remain the approved counsel for the Assembly, despite arguments from multiple parties involved in the case.

Obasa’s counsel, Olusola Idowu, SAN, had argued for a new Counsel, citing the Assembly’s right to change its Legal Team.

However, Falana countered that he had not been debriefed by the Assembly and denied the existence of any reinstatement order for suspended Clerk, Olalekan Onafeko.

Abimbola Akeredolu, SAN, representing Obasa on other matters, argued that the application was tied to unresolved substantive issues in the case, while Olu Daramola, SAN, representing 33 of the 40 lawmakers (the 3rd to 35th defendants), claimed the majority of Lawmakers suspended Onafeko and retained Falana, accusing the opposing side of misintepreting the Industrial Court’s order.

The Court also addressed another application by Falana, who argued that the Court lacks jurisdiction to interfere in matters of the Assembly.

Falana noted that the Speaker is elected by Members of the House and can only be removed by the Members.

Justice Pinheiro adjourned the case, informing the Court that a date will be communicated to the parties involved.

EFCC Arrests Gov Okpebholo’s Aide, PDP Applauds

By
Adesina Soyooye
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Kelly Okungbowa arrested by EFCC

By Adesina Soyooye

Kelly Okungbowa, an Aide to the Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo,   has been arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.

Okungbowa, the suspended Coordinator of the Edo State Public Safety Response Team, PSRT, was arrested for alleged Naira abuse.

Popularly known as “Ebo Stone”, he was apprehended by EFCC’s Operatives from the Benin Zonal Directorate on March 9, for allegedly spraying Naira in a Bar on two exotic dancers.

His arrest was confirmed by Dele Oyewale, Head, Media and Publicity of the Commission via a statement dated March 17, 2025.

Okungbowa’s arrest has been applauded by the main opposition Party in the State, the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP.

According to the EFCC, the suspended Governor’s Aide  was arrested following a viral video where he was seen at a Bar on March 9, 2025, abusing Nigeria’s currency, the  Naira, by  spraying and mutilating it.

Oyewale’s  statement which confirmed his arrest, reads in part: “Operatives of the Benin zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Monday, March 17, 2025 arrested Kelly Okungbowa (a.k. a Ebo Stone) for alleged Naira abuse.

“Okungbowa, who until recently was the coordinator of the Edo State Public Safety Response Team, PSRT, now suspended by the Edo State Government, was arrested owing to a viral video where he was seen spraying and mutilating the naira at a bar on March 9, 2025”.

In a swift reaction, the PDP applauded the Commission for the arrest of the suspect.

Chris Nehikhare, the Publicity Secretary of the State’s PDP Caretaker Committee of urged the EFCC to thoroughly investigate and  prosecute the suspect in accordance with the CBN Act of 2007 which criminalises the abuse of the Naira.

Said the PDP: “The Edo State Chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, commends the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, for the swift arrest of Kelly Okungbowa, also known as Ebo Stone for alleged naira abuse.

“The swift arrest of Okungbowa who was seen in a viral video spraying and mutilating the Naira sends a strong message that such criminal and irresponsible actions will not be tolerated, regardless of the perpetrator’s position or influence.

“We charge the EFCC to carry out a thorough investigation on the matter and ensure diligent prosecution in accordance with the CBN Act of 2007 which criminalises the abuse of Naira notes, including spraying, stepping on, or mishandling.”

Governor Okpebholo suspended Okungbowa over allegations bordering on extortion, harassment, and unruly behavior.

Ondo Plans Stricter Laws For Kidnappings, Cultism

By
Ayodele Oni
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Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa

By Ayodele Oni

As Ondo State Government intensifies efforts to reduce insecurity, there are indications that  laws on cultism and kidnappings are being reviewed to enforce stricter punishments to serve as a strong deterrent against such crimes.

The Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Olukayode Ajulo disclosed this in Akure during a meeting with key officials from the Ministry of Justice and parastatals under the Office of the Attorney General, including the Law Commission, Office of the Public Defender, and Amotekun Corps.

He emphasised that during the review, several other laws would also be reassessed to ensure they align with the current security realities of the state

In attendance were the Solicitor General, Mrs. Funmi Adejumo, alongside other secretaries and directors from the various departments.

Addressing the meeting, Dr. Ajulo emphasized the urgent need for decisive legal and security measures, calling for swift prosecution of criminal cases and enhanced collaboration with security agencies.

He made it clear that Governor Lucky  Aiyedatiwa’s administration is deeply committed to safeguarding the lives and property of Ondo State residents and ensuring that justice is not only served but visibly upheld.

He urged all stakeholders to rally behind the governor’s proactive vision for a safer, more secure state.

Dr. Ajulo further highlighted that Governor Aiyedatiwa has prioritized security as a cornerstone of his administration, recognising that economic growth and societal progress can only thrive in a peaceful environment.

“His Excellency, Governor Aiyedatiwa, is not just making promises; he is implementing bold strategies to protect the people.

“From strengthening law enforcement to equipping security agencies, his leadership is ensuring that Ondo State remains a safe haven for its citizens and businesses.

“It is, therefore, our duty to ensure that we effectively and efficiently perform our respective responsibilities in support of this vision.”

He charged the directors to streamline judicial processes, eliminate bureaucratic bottlenecks, and prioritize cases that threaten public peace and security.

He stressed that a justice system that delivers timely and firm resolutions is key to reinforcing the government’s commitment to law and order.

He expressed confidence in the judiciary’s commitment to upholding justice and commended judicial officers for their dedication to ensuring a fair and efficient legal system assuring them of government’s continued support in strengthening the judiciary for improved service delivery.

Dr. Ajulo also stressed the importance of synergy between the Office of the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Ministry of Justice and security agencies, including the police, civil defense, Amotekun, and other law enforcement bodies.

He highlighted that effective crime prevention requires intelligence sharing, seamless coordination, and joint task forces to confront emerging threats.

He assured that the ministry would work closely with security agencies to ensure prompt legal actions against criminals while advocating for policies that enhance law enforcement efficiency.

Seyi Tinubu Should Be Emulated By Young Politicians; He’s Down To Earth- APC Chieftain

By
James Orji
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Seyi Tinubu
Seyi Tinubu

Amid the backlash against Seyi, President Bola Ahmed  Tinubu’s son, a chieftain of the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, Isaac Balami insists that he deserves to be encouraged for his humanitarian work across the country.

According to Balami, the president’s son has been able to do what other president’s children did not do while their fathers were in office, because they refused to come down from their ‘high horse’.

The president’s son, he explained, has performed humanitarian work across the country to assist the indigents, and must be praised for his selfless activities.

The APC chieftain made the remark in a statement on  Monday, as Seyi continues to receive bashing from not a few Nigerians, who said his actions were politically motivated.

He has also been trenchantly ciritcised by many people after he claimed , on Monday, that President Tinubu is the greatest leader who has ruled the country.

The president’s son has been touring the northern part of the country distributing food items to some people and breaking the Ramadan fast with Muslims.

Balami said the president’s son should be  commended and not vilified for what he’s doing, by taking the bull by the horn to help those suffering, adding that he has brought youthful vibes into the politics of the country.

He explained that the reason why Seyi is being attacked is because of the 2027 elections, urging Nigerians to stop politicizing the younger Tinubu’s humanitarian work, saying young people should take a cue from him because his victory is  “not just victory for himself, but victory for young people”.

Part of the statement read: “Nigerians should rather call on young politicians, local government administrators and other young entrepreneurs to emulate Seyi Tinubu by supporting individuals who are truly in need and not to discourage this young man.

“Mr Seyi Tinubu had started this Iftar reach-outs 10-15 years ago when the father was not the nation’s president. Are some people saying he should quit because the father is the current president?

“What, therefore, is wrong should the son of the president reach out to those in need or genuinely share some moments with northern Muslims at their quiet and prayerful time?

“The most ridiculous is the insinuation that his gesture was politically motivated. Even if Seyi is doing this for political reasons, what is wrong?

“We know how children of presidents behave. Many won’t come down from their high horses, but Seyi has continued to do what most children of presidents have never done. He is down to earth.”

Recall that Seyi has attracted serious criticisms from not a few following suggestions that he’s planning to join the Lagos state governorship race in 2027.

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