The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) tackled former military leader Ibrahim Babangida (IBB) for heaping all the blames as regard the annulment of the 1993 June 12 Presidential Election on late Head of State, General Sani Abacha.
MURIC said in a statement that Babangida, on February 20, did not only insult Nigerians, but added salt to Injury by writing and presenting his autobiography which content it dismissed as provocative and its presentation a show of Impunity.
As Nigeria’s Military President at the time, Babangida presided over the Presidential Election adjudged to be free and fair, and presumed to have been won by Business Mogul, Chief Moshood Abiola, popular as MKO. However, just when the announcement of the winner was being expected, IBB’s regime annulled the election.
IBB never recovered from the crisis that followed it, as he was forced to cobble together an Interim National Government headed by late Chief Ernest Shonekan, while he stepped aside on August 15, 1993.
But the ING which he set up was thrown out by General Sani Abacha, then Chief of Defence Staff, who went ahead and installed himself as the Head of State.
Thereafter, Abiola was arrested by Abacha, thrown into detention, dragged to Court, accused of treasonable felony among others, for declaring himself President. He did not come out of the detention alive. He died in custody.
While speculations have been the fate of that election and the intrigues that surrounded it, on February 20, 2025, the man at the centre, IBB, told his story in his autobiography, “A Journey In Service”, which he presented that day.
Aside from confirming, after 32 years, that Abiola won the election, IBB, let it be known that it was General Abacha who cancelled the Election because of (1): Abacha was against a Civilian Government (2) Abacha had a deep rooted hatred for Abiola. He, also, revealed that the annulment was announced in his absence by the Media Aide to his Chief of General Staff, Admiral Augustus Aikhomu.
Even though he took responsibility, he, literally, washed his hands off and heaped the blame on Abacha. He literally said that he tagged along because because he feared for his life and that of Abiola as Abacha and Co were planning a violent coup against him, and would have killed Abiola as well.
But his story has not gone down well with not a few people. While some, including Abacha’s daughter, Gumsu, have dismissed him as a coward, others say he should tell his story to the marines.
Enraged over his claim that Abacha was the problem, MURIC in a statement signed by its Executive Director, Professor Ishaq Akintola, pinpointed him as the problem, not Abacha.
The statement reads:
“We of the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) hereby totally reject all attempts by the former military dictator to exonerate himself from the annulment of the June 12, 1993 election fiasco. The former dictator should stop blaming others for all that happened. We assert emphatically, unequivocally and categorically that the buck stops at IBB’s table. We reject his alibi.
“We hold IBB responsible for the failure of Nigeria to cultivate a sustainable, visionary and dignifying political culture having annulled the fairest, freest and most peaceful election in the history of Nigeria.
“Thursday, 20th February, 2025, the day IBB presented his memoir, was a sad day for genuinely patriotic Nigerians. It was the day leaders decided to disappoint the masses by hero-worshipping a former dictator, a tyrant and a numero uno enemy of democracy.
“Nigeria was at the edge of the cliff when the duo of Buhari and Idiagbon came to rescue the nation from general indiscipline, corruption and avaricious greed. We were getting it right when IBB came from nowhere to topple that corrective administration. That was the beginning of our descent back to the abyss of pitch darkness.
“IBB incarcerated Buhari and refused to allow him to attend his mother’s funeral. The lives of many innocent Nigerians were wasted during the IBB-Abacha totalitarian military misadventure. Clement Akpangbo, Bagauda Kaltho, Justice Ikpeme, Alfred Rewane, etc. were sent to the beyond. The streets of Lagos and Ibadan were filled with dead bodies.
“Yet the height of heartlessness and callousness was the assassination of the winner of that monumental election, Chief Moshood Kashimawo Abiola (MKO) and the killing of his wife, Alhaja Kudirat Abiola.”
MURIC said it was outraged by the “public show of spite, chagrin and insensitivity at the Transcorp Hilton, venue of IBB’s book presentation”.
It described it as “audacious, outrageous, nauseating and provocative.
“Salt was added to injury. IBB is not sober.
“Our leaders have failed to learn the art of healing. They do not understand the people they are leading. We are separated by a wide gulf. Arrogance and impunity are cancerous tumors which eat deep into the anatomy of love, unity, tolerance and forgiveness.
“This country has not been fully healed from the excruciating pains of June 12 and the criminal and cold-blooded killings of our first prime minister, Alhaji Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, Alhaji Ahmadu Bello, the Sardauna of Sokoto and Chief S. L. Akintola former premier of the Western Region. Unfortunately, all those killings were done by the Nigerian military.
“For the temerity manifested by IBB in displaying the original results of the June 12 election 32 years later and for publicly admitting that MKO won the historic election, the author of ‘A Journey In Service’ has certified Nigeria as the land where conscienceless power subjugates powerless conscience.
“This book is the height of impunity and the author is judicable. IBB has not demonstrated remorse. His book is indubitable exercise in the territory of high-level treason.
“As an Islamic human rights organization, MURIC is greatly disturbed by the fact that the major dramatis personae in the annulment of the June 12 election are Muslims: MKO, IBB, Abacha, etc. We regret that the principle of justice which Islam holds in high esteem have been bastardised by those who should know better.
“We give posthumous salutes to true heroes of democracy like Chief MKO Abiola, Alhaja Kudirat Abiola, Dr. Beko Ransome Kuti and Chief Alfred Rewane. We doff our hats to living heroes of the struggle like Professor Wole Soyinka, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, current governor of Kaduna State, Uba Sani, Professor Sylvester Odion Akhaine, erstwhile secretary of the Campaign for Democracy (CD), the arrowhead of the struggle against military rule, Shehu Sani, Comrade Okechukwu Ndiribe and leaders of the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO).”
The Jigawa State Police Command, on Sunday, February 23, 2025, urged commercial motorists and other road users to prioritize safety measures in their operations.
The Police cautionary note came on the heels of the death of four passengers in a ghastly road mishap on Saturday February 22.
About 10 others were also said to have sustained varying degrees of injuries when a commercial bus suddenly burst into flames at about 4:00 pm, close to the Gwaram Government Girls Unity College In Gwaram Local Government Area of Jigawa State.
The fully loaded bus was heading from Zaki Local Council of Bauchi State to Rabadi Community in Gwaram when the incident occurred.
A statement from Lawan Adam,SP, the Jigawa Police Command Spokesperson on Sunday informed that about 25 adults ,and 19 children were on board the ill-fated commercial bus.
He noted that the cause of the sudden fire outbreak was traced to the exhaust pipe of the bus with the flames spreading fast through a mattress tied close to the pipe.
“The victims were identified as Zuwairah Hassan 40, Fatima Hassan 5, Iyatale Hassan, 3, and Halima Muhammad 10- all from Saldiga village in Zaki LGA ,Bauchi State.
The four victims were completely burnt ,while 10 others were seriously affected.
According to the Police, while the rest of the passengers were evacuated, the injured were taken to Gwaram Cottage Hospital for medical attention.
Adam further stated that the remains of the dead ,were handed over to their relations .
The statement appealed to commercial vehicle operators to always pay attention to some safety measures and always examine the state of their vehicles to avert avoidable road accidents.
The unfolding events in Osun State offer a comprehensive case study in overcoming institutional inertia and political manipulation through visionary leadership. Governor Adeleke’s blend of American-influenced expertise and a deep commitment to democratic principles has not only secured a peaceful election but has also set a new standard for governance in Nigeria. His resolute stand against outdated practices, coupled with a pragmatic embrace of innovative security measures like Amotekun, has ensured that the democratic process remains intact.
Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke’s American education, bolstered by a degree in criminal justice and decades of experience living in the United States, has provided him with a profound understanding of democratic principles and modern law enforcement techniques. This global perspective has enabled him to challenge entrenched practices and reimagine governance in a system often mired in outdated legal and political maneuvers. His innovative approach stands as a testament to the benefits of international training in navigating the complexities of Nigeria’s legal and political landscape.
Challenging Security Paradigms and Embracing Alternative Law Enforcement
In the run-up to the local government elections, traditional security forces resorted to familiar scare tactics. The Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun not only advised against holding the elections but also threatened to withdraw security by predicting inevitable chaos—hoodlums and violent criminals being a familiar refrain in Nigeria’s political playbook. Despite credible intelligence warning of potential violence, as repeatedly highlighted by Force Public Relations Officer Olumuyiwa Adejobi and echoed by the Nigeria Police Force, Governor Adeleke’s resolve did not falter. Instead, he decisively insisted that the elections must proceed and pivoted towards modern solutions by embracing Amotekun, an alternative regional security outfit that the police and other political powers had long fought to suppress.
Resistance to Amotekun and the Politics of State Police
The emergence of Amotekun was not a spontaneous development but the result of deliberate efforts by security forces and political elites to prevent the existence of a state-controlled police force. For years, the established powers, including the Inspector General of Police and other influential political figures, resisted the formation of such a force because it threatened their traditional monopoly over law enforcement. Now, as Amotekun temporarily filled the role of state police—delivering innovative and effective security—it has become evident why these powers were so determined to block its existence. Their reluctance to accept a system where security is decentralized and more responsive to local needs underscores a broader resistance to reform in Nigeria’s security architecture.
Election Dynamics, Judicial Interference, and a Resounding Victory
Amid mounting tension and conflicting directives, the elections in Osun State unfolded with surprising calm. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) secured a historic victory by winning all the chairmanship and councillorship seats in all 30 local government areas—a sweeping result confirmed by Hashim Abioye, Chairman of the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission, who announced that the PDP had also cleared all 332 councillorship seats. Meanwhile, the judiciary—known for its shameful, conflicting orders emanating from state, federal, and appellate courts—played its customary part. Amidst the legal wrangling and multiple court directives, Governor Adeleke remained resolute, recognizing that federal courts have no jurisdiction over local elections. This judicial chaos, rather than disrupting the process, further underscored the resilience of a system determined to uphold democratic values.
Psychological Warfare and Political Rivalries:
Beyond the realm of physical security, senior figures—including the Inspector General of Police—deployed psychological tactics to instill fear and uncertainty among the electorate. This recurring strategy, often used by the police to deter protests and elections by warning of imminent threats from hoodlums and violent actors, is a familiar game to many Nigerians. Governor Adeleke, well-versed in navigating such dynamics, demonstrated that these manufactured security concerns would not derail the democratic process. Although these maneuvers were designed to exploit deep-seated insecurities and halt the progression of democracy, they ultimately failed to shake public confidence. The situation was further complicated by the involvement of Bola Tinubu—Nigeria’s President with deep-rooted connections to Osun State and clear aspirations to extend APC influence—standing in stark contrast to Governor Adeleke’s unwavering loyalty to the PDP. This difference has laid bare the extreme lengths to which established powers will go to maintain their grip on both security and political control.
Defying the AGF:
Osun’s Commitment to Democracy
Osun Governor Ademola Adeleke defied the directive of the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), Lateef Fagbemi, to halt local council elections, demonstrating that his commitment to democracy outweighed political maneuvering. Despite legal developments that reinstated removed local officials until October 2025 and warnings about potential constitutional issues, Governor Adeleke remained determined to advance local development and ensure genuine democratic participation in Osun State. In the end, the elections proceeded successfully and resulted in a comprehensive victory, bringing a welcome resolution to the longstanding debates over governance.
Professor John Egbeazien Oshodi
Defiant Messaging and the Role of Amotekun
In a powerful repudiation of outdated tactics, Governor Adeleke’s nephew, Davido—a renowned Nigerian musician trained in an American college—captured the public’s imagination with his defiant tweet, “We go use Amotekun.” This bold declaration not only challenged the Nigeria Police Force’s warnings but also signaled a clear intent to rely on innovative security solutions if traditional methods failed. Davido’s message, which drew mixed reactions online, epitomized a new era of political communication that leverages modern ideas to counteract the old legal, police, and political games. His statement, along with Governor Adeleke’s own insistence, resonated deeply as a rejection of practices that toy with the minds of American-educated leaders in today’s global age.
International Engagement and Critique of Illegality
During a period of intense political turbulence, while British diplomats led by Deputy High Commissioner Jonny Baxter were visiting Osogbo, Governor Adeleke seized the opportunity to expose the inherent illegality and moral bankruptcy of Nigeria’s traditional political machinations. In a pointed exchange, he criticized Inspector General Kayode Egbetokun for colluding with the APC to enforce a non-existent court order—a move he condemned as a “rape on democracy.” His remarks not only spotlighted the perverse tactics employed by security agents and political elites but also underscored the broader issue of outdated legal and security games that have no place in today’s global environment. As I paraphrase the governor, his message was clear: don’t play with American minds—those who engage in such manipulative tactics are meddling with principles shaped by modern democratic ideals, and their archaic methods are failing, as the resounding electoral victory decisively proves.
A Call for Modern Governance and Democratic Integrity
Governor Adeleke’s steadfast commitment to modernizing governance and ensuring the integrity of the democratic process stands as a beacon for future leadership in Nigeria. His approach rejects the manipulative tactics of old—practices that were designed to prevent the emergence of a state-controlled police force like Amotekun. Now, as Amotekun temporarily fills the crucial role of state police, it becomes clear that established powers have long resisted any move towards decentralized, responsive security. This refusal to embrace reform is a major reason why traditional political and security establishments are increasingly out of step with the demands of a modern democracy. The unequivocal electoral victory—where the PDP swept every local seat—demonstrates that when contemporary strategies are embraced, democracy not only endures but thrives.
A Blueprint for the Future
The unfolding events in Osun State offer a comprehensive case study in overcoming institutional inertia and political manipulation through visionary leadership. Governor Adeleke’s blend of American-influenced expertise and a deep commitment to democratic principles has not only secured a peaceful election but has also set a new standard for governance in Nigeria. His resolute stand against outdated practices, coupled with a pragmatic embrace of innovative security measures like Amotekun, has ensured that the democratic process remains intact. This historic win by the PDP—marked by a clean sweep across all 30 local government areas—serves as a resounding testament to the power of modern governance in an era where traditional games are rapidly losing their grip on the future.
Judicial and Security Neutrality:
In an era marked by intense political rivalry, courts and police must avoid becoming entangled in partisan disputes. When these institutions allow themselves to be drawn into interpolitical matters, they risk being exploited as mere tools in the power struggle—an involvement that can lead to both local and international disgrace. Maintaining strict neutrality is essential for safeguarding the integrity of justice and security, as well as for preserving public trust. By steering clear of political entanglements, these bodies can ensure that their core mission remains intact and free from the corrupting influence of external pressures and partisan manipulation. Let us paraphrase Governor Adeleke here, recently remarking with a touch of humor, “Be careful, or your actions might have you joining the ranks of those ‘who rape democracy’; we all know how it goes—just ask those not eligible for Canadian visas due to questionable behavior!” His pointed comment serves as a sharp warning against meddling in political games.
International Humor and Warnings:
During discussions with British diplomats, Governor Adeleke did not miss the chance to inject a wry observation into the discourse. He humorously cautioned that those who continue to employ outdated, manipulative tactics might soon find themselves as unwelcome as a Canadian denied a visa—a fate reminiscent of recent high-profile cases involving Nigerian security figures. In his own words, he warned that such practices could earn them a global reputation as the very ones who “rape democracy.” This ironic remark underscores the futility of interpolitical meddling by courts and police, reminding us that in today’s interconnected world, archaic power games can lead to international ridicule and lasting disgrace.
Ultimately, for Nigeria to truly embrace democracy, its institutions must evolve beyond mere rhetoric and symbolic gestures. Courts and security agencies need to remain neutral and free from partisan influence to preserve the integrity of the democratic process. As Governor Adeleke’s pointed remarks and the overwhelming electoral mandate suggest, the time has come for Nigeria to become democratic not just in name, but in every facet of governance. Only by shedding outdated legal, police, and political games can the nation earn genuine respect on the global stage and build a future where democracy is lived, not merely proclaimed.
This psychologist has no personal or other affiliations with Governor Adeleke or any political figures mentioned herein. The sole motivation is a sincere desire to see Nigeria fully embrace and live the principles of true democracy.
Oshodi Open Door, also known as Oshodi Open Door Public Training (OOPDT, pronounced opidt), is a public awareness initiative promoting transparency, accountability, and integrity in Africa through educational articles and resources at [email protected], and offers specialized Timely Response Solutions (TRS) training at minimal or no cost.
Professor John Egbeazien Oshodi is an American psychologist, educator, author specializing in forensic clinical psychology, cross-cultural psychology, police prison science, social justice. Born in Uromi, Edo State, Nigeria, he is the son of a 37-year veteran of the Nigeria Police Force, a background that shaped his commitment to justice, security, psychological research.
A pioneer in forensic psychology, he introduced state-of-the-art forensic psychology to Nigeria in 2011 through the National Universities Commission (NUC) Nasarawa State University, where he served as an Associate Professor in the Department of Psychology. His contributions extend beyond academia into psychological health behavioral change initiatives through the Oshodi Foundation the Center for Psychological Forensic Services.
Professor Oshodi has held faculty positions at Florida Memorial University, Florida International University, Broward College, Nova Southeastern University, Lynn University. He is also a contributing faculty member in the doctoral undergraduate psychology programs at Walden University serves as a virtual professor with Weldios University and Iscom University.
Beyond academia, he is a government consultant for forensic-clinical psychological services in the USA previously served as Interim Associate Dean Assistant Professor at Broward College, Florida.
He has published extensively on mental health, justice, institutional reform is the founder of the Psychoafricalysis theory, which integrates African sociocultural perspectives into psychology.
Professor Oshodi remains an influential force in advancing psychology institutional reform globally, particularly in Africa
PDP wins in all Councils, winners may be sworn-in today
Even as the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, won all the seats in the February 22, Osun State Local Council Election, the All Progressives Congress, (APC) in the state has called on the Local Government Chairmen and Councilors returned to office to continue with their work.
Citing a still seeming controversial Court of Appeal ruling which reinstated them in office, the APC forcefully took over the Local Government Headquarters, and pushed out the interim officers of the PDP. Insisting that their tenure would end in October, 2025, the APC, also, opted out of the Saturday Election.
However, with the results declared, PDP Governor Ademola Adeleke has vowed o swear in the Chairmen and Councilors elected during the Saturday election on Sunday to enable them resume on Monday.
But a statement by the APC Publicity Secretary in the state, Kola Olabisi, stated that the reinstated Chairmen and Councilors remain the elected officials to run the Local Government affairs in the State.
This, not a few people fear, has set tye tone for a possible clash between members of both parties which could degenerate into a full blown crisis.
Said the APC Publicity Secretary in a statement: “We want to make it abundantly clear that it is imperative for the elected APC Local Government Chairmen and Councilors not to cease from resumption at their various Local Government Council Areas in order to continue to serve the deprived people at the grassroots level of Government.
“The APC is a party founded on the rule of law which is the reason the Court of Appeal judgement given at the Akure Division, Akure, Ondo State, on the 10th of February, 2025, is the basic instrument of your reinstatement.
“We are not unaware of the fact that some disgruntled elements who are emboldened by the lawless government of the day in Osun State are planning to invade the Local Government Council Areas across the State.
“We would like to enjoin the state Commissioner of Police, the State Director of the DSS and the State Comptroller of the Civil Defence to be on watch out with a view to keeping peace in all the Local Government Council Areas in the State.
“It is also important to appeal to parents and guardians across the State to warn their children and wards to desist from being recruited as political thugs by disgruntled and failed politicians who are hell-bent in disturbing the peace of the State.
“We are reinstating our statement again that there are no vacancies for elected offices at the Local Government Council level in all the Local Government Council Areas in Osun State.”
Earlier, the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister for Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, had asked Governor Adeleke not to go ahead with the election, citing the Court of Appeal judgement. Also, the Inspector General of Police, Dr. Kayode Egbetokun, expressed same sentiment. But the very determined Governor called their bluff.
In the Saturday election, the Police abstained from their duty. Instead, they sealed the Headquarters of the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission, and allegedly, brutalized and arrested a number of Staff.
However, the election which Governor Adeleke said over 60 percent of registered voters participated in, went on peacefully. After he voted, Adeleke hailed President Bola Tinubu as a true democrat who would always respect the rule of law.
A Court of Appeal Judgement which declared that Isinkan, a community in Akure south local government is one of the quarters of Akure, has again re ignited the old war of supremacy between the Deji of Akure, Oba Aladetoyinbo Aladelusi and Iralepo of Isinkan.
The Court of Appeal presided over by Justice Fadawu Umaru also declared that the Deji of Akure, should have a say in who becomes the head of the Isinkan quarter.
Following the development, Ona Aladelusi has ordered the Iralepo of Isinkan, Oba Gbenga Ojo to handover all palace properties within his possession to the appropriate quarters for proper documentation.
This followed the installation and appointment of Gbenga Henry Adeyeye as the new Iralepo of Isikan quarters by the Deji, which now qualifies him to wear all paraphernalia of office attached to the stool of the Iralepo of Isikan.
Chief Press Secretary to the Deji of Akure Kingdom, Michael Adeyeye, in a statement said “We wish to inform Mr. Gbenga Ojo that any violation of the afore-stated shall be met stiffer penalties including committal proceedings.
“The presentation of certificate to the new Iralepo was witnessed by the Omowa of Isikan and other dignitaries at the palace of the Deji of Akure Land.
“The Palace wishes to congratulate the new Iralepo and urge him to ensure the development and progress of Isikan community under his watch.”
Reacting to comment from the Deji’s palace, Kayode Oluyi, Olisa of Isinkan and spokesman stated that the “ancient throne of the Iralepo of Isinkan is not such a child’s play susceptible to the theatre of absurdity.
“Henry Gbenga Adeyeye being now said to be appointed as High Chief Iralepo of Isinkan by the Deji of Akure contested with Oba Olugbenga Ojo for the throne of Iralepo in 2021 and was rejected by the Isinkan people for reasons bordering on his suitability and eligibility under customary law. He has since been hibernating in the palace of the Deji.
“For the avoidance of any doubt, we the people of Isinkan know ourselves by genealogy and proper birth.
“Besides, the Iralepo of Isinkan has from creation and time immemorial only been appointed by the people of Isinkan and never by the Deji of Akure nor subject to his approval.
“While we take due cognizance of the judgment of the Court of Appeal and exercising our further rights in that respect under the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, we wish to assure all that the throne of the Iralepo of Isinkan is not vacant as Oba Oluwagbemiga Ajimokunola Olofin-Adimula (Arulewolasi III), the Olusi Obarisa, remains, and sits on the throne and in the palace of the Iralepo of Isinkan.”
The Adamawa State Police authorities on Saturday, February 22,2025, said that efforts are underway to track down some suspected kidnapers of two Senior Catholic clerics in Numan Local Government Area .
This is just as they called for credible information that can assist in hunting down the hoodlums.
The Source reports that Rev Fathers Mathew David Dusami and Abraham Sammon of Yola Catholic Diocese and Jalingo Diocese, respectively, were reportedly abducted by some gunmen at their residence in Gwaida Malam in Numan Local Council of the State at about 4 am on Saturday.
A statement issued by the Adamawa Police Command Spokesperson, Suleiman Nguroje SP, informed that the kidnappers invaded the homes of the clerics armed with dangerous weapons and subsequently whisked them away.
According to the statement, the State Commissioner of Police, CP Dankombo Morris, has condemned the abduction, describing it as unprovoked.
He, also, deplored the kidnapping of innocent religious leaders who he noted are actively involved in the concerted efforts to foster and promote peace in the society .
The Command’s spokesman further noted that a crack team of operatives have been deployed with the mandate to locate and rescue unhurt the abducted Clericsas well as apprehend the hoodlums.
“The Progressive efforts of the Command will definitely bring the perpetrators and other persons involved to face the full wrath of the law.
“The Command remains committed to safeguarding lives and resisting all forms of violent crimes in the state” the police noted .
“The Command, however, called for sustained support from the public through the provision of timely and actionable intelligence on the activities of criminal elements.
” We seek the support and cooperation of the general public in the area of useful and timely information that will aid the quest for the rescue of the victims and arrest of the criminals”, the statement further reads.
The Senator representing Rivers West Senatorial Zone at the National Assembly, Dr. Ipalibo Harry-Banigo, on Saturday, February 22, 2025, called on the Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited NNPCL, to institute an inquest into the incessant cases of explosions that have been rocking oil facilities within OML 18 in Bonny and Degema Councils of Rivers State.
The Source reports that the two vital oil facilities were, last Wednesday night, February 19, 2025, engulfed by fire resulting from a heavy explosion.
Although there has been no confirmed reports of human casualties, the two flow stations were severely damaged.
A video posted online by locals who witnessed the incident showed twin explosions at the oil facilities located close to Cawthone Channel off the coast of Bonny.
The blasts which resulted in a serious disruption of operations was said to have been caused by emission of excessive heat from a wielding facility.
Senator Banigo’s call comes on the heel of what she described as a worrisome recurrence of fire outbreaks within the nation’s oil facilities.
It will be recalled that last Wednesday’s incident came less than two weeks after the explosion that occurred at the same OML 18, Oil facility in Bukuma Agum in same Degema Local Council.
In a statement, Senator Banigo expressed serious concern over the frequency of the fire outbreaks.
“The recurrence of these fire outbreaks within the same OML 18, location in such a short time is deeply troubling.
“Any responsible society, organization, or institution should consider this a matter of grave concern.
The Senator who was the immediate past Deputy Governor of Rivers State, therefore, urged the NNPCL, as a major stakeholder, to carry out a comprehensive investigation with a view to ascertaining the true causes of the incessant inferno at the oil facilities.
He maintained that such recurring fire incidents is not in the best interest of the country.
She emphasized the imperativeness of the probe, ascertaining also the impact level of the incidents on the environment, as well as the means of livelihoods of the people of the areas.
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command on Saturday, February, 22, 2025, announced the rescue of a kidnap victim and recovery of his stolen vehicle.
This is even as the State Commissioner of Police Baba Mohammed Azare, reaffirmed the commitment of the Command to protecting lives and properties of the residents .
A statement from the Command’s Spokesperson, Timfon John, DSP, indicated that the rescue of the victim was sequel to a tactical operation carried out in Ikot Ekpene area of the State.
“On February 13, 2025, based on a report that a man (name withheld) was kidnapped along Okop Eto Road and taken to an unknown destination by the kidnappers.
“Operatives of the Command based on credible intelligence swung into action and engaged the kidnappers in a gun duel.
“The hoodlums, overwhelmed by superior firepower fled with severe gunshot injuries, leaving the victim unharmed.
“The victim was rescued unhurt, his vehicle recovered and has since been reunited with his family”, the police stated.
According to the Command, while efforts are underway to track down and apprehend the fleeing suspects, a full scale investigation is ongoing, with a view to recovering all weapons used in the crime as well as bring those responsible to justice.
The State Commissioner, also commended the officers for their swift response and reassured residents of the readiness and commitment of the Service to the fight against crimes and criminal activities in the State.
He urged the public to remain calm, law abiding, and to report any suspicious movements and activities around them.
Ondo state Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa has highlighted oil theft, insecurity, youth restiveness, and economic deprivation as part of problems that have hindered past developmental effort in the coastal area of the state.
The Governor was addressing delegates at the 15th anniversary of the Niger Delta National Youth and Development Stakeholders Forum, in Akure.
The four-day event themed “Collaborating with Youth and Development Stakeholders in the Niger Delta for Peace, Security, and Development,” brought together federal and state government officials, policy makers, and youth leaders from the nine Niger Delta states.
Speaking on behalf of Governor Aiyedatiwa, Secretary of Ondo oil intervention agency, Abike Bayo-Ilawole emphasized the summit’s goal: to unlock the region’s potential, foster peace and security, and drive sustainable development.
He urged youths to reject violence and instead engage constructively with the government, presenting collaborative ideas to enhance the region’s progress.
“Restoring peace and security will create an environment where the government can effectively address youth concerns.
“This requires firm but objective enforcement, followed by sincere dialogue with community representatives.”
Aiyedatiwa outlined OSOPADEC’s commitment to youth empowerment through agribusiness and aquaculture, promoting self-reliance and wealth creation.
He listed skill acquisition programmes in fish farming, crop cultivation, and animal husbandry, alongside ongoing infrastructure projects such as road construction, potable water supply, electricity, shoreline protection, and land reclamation as some of the interventions in the region
“Additionally, the commission has secured grants and loans for youth entrepreneurs through the Nigerian Association of Small and Medium Enterprises (NASME) and the Bank of Industry (BOI) as part of broader financial strategies.”
He urged youths to take an active role in maintaining security, emphasizing that peace in the region requires collective effort.
The Niger Delta National Youth Development Stakeholders Forum serves as a platform for dialogue among youth leaders, government officials, civil society, and private sector actors to evaluate past and present initiatives and develop proactive strategies for sustainable partnership and development in the region.
All is set for the swearing in of Lucky Aiyedatiwa as Governor and Olayide Adelami as deputy governor of Ondo state on Monday.
Aiyedatiwa’s inauguration followed his victory during last year’s Governorship election in the state on the ticket of the All Progressives Congress, (APC).
He will be completing the second term tenure of late Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, whom he deputized till his death in 2023.
Already, Governor Aiyedatiwa has declared Monday, 24th of February 2025, as a public holiday in the State.
The work-free day will allow the people of the State to participate in the activities of the inauguration of Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa and Deputy Governor Olayide Owolabi Adelami.
The People’s Democratic Party, (PDP) candidate in the Governorship poll, Ajayi Agboola is challenging the outcome of the election at the tribunal.
