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Tinubu Salutes National Assembly For Patriotic Stand On Rivers

By
The Source
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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday lauded the National Assembly for its decisive and patriotic ratification of the State of Emergency proclamation in Rivers State, a critical step to restoring stability after a protracted political crisis that paralysed governance in the state and endangered national economic security for over 15 months.

The President specifically commended the National Assembly’s leadership—Senate President Godswill Akpabio, House of Representatives Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, other principal officers and members—for prioritising the security and welfare of Rivers State people above partisan interests and other considerations.

He further acknowledged the lawmakers’ diligent review of classified security briefings, underscoring the urgent need for intervention to prevent further escalation.

“The crisis in Rivers State was at a perilous tipping point, threatening the security of vital oil and gas installations and undermining the national economy and the significant progress we have made in the reforms initiated since our administration commenced in May 2023,” President Tinubu remarked.

“As I detailed in my address to the nation on 18 March, the near-total collapse of governance, threats to federal economic assets, and the risk of widespread violence left no room for hesitation. This emergency measure is a lifeline to safeguard livelihoods, secure critical infrastructure, and restore democratic accountability.”

The President affirmed that the six-month emergency will empower the newly-appointed Sole Administrator to stabilise Rivers State, address systemic breakdowns, and facilitate dialogue among conflicting parties.

President Tinubu also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to deepening collaboration with the National Assembly to advance peace, economic resilience, and equitable development across Nigeria.

“Today’s decision exemplifies what our nation can achieve when unity of purpose and patriotism guide the action of leaders. We remain steadfast in pursuing a safer, more prosperous Nigeria—one where every citizen’s potential is safeguarded and nurtured,” he said.

The President thanked all Nigerians for their understanding and urged all stakeholders to support the restoration of peace in Rivers State.

Bayo Onanuga

Special Adviser to the President

(Information & Strategy)

2027: Adebayo Reads Riot Act, Says SDP Not For Disgruntled Politicians

By
Akinwale Kasali
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Adewole Adebayo - SDP Presidential Candidate

By Akinwale Kasali

Adewole Adebayo, 2023 Presidential Candidate of the Social Democratic Party, SDP, and also its leader, has warned Politicians joining the Party that the Party isn’t for disgruntled Politicians.

Adebayo made this clear following the insinuation that SDP has become a political Party that is a beautiful bride for disgruntled and internally displaced politicians seeking refuge and relevance.

Debunking that insinuation and perception, Adebayo maintained that the party remains a movement driven by young people and women who want real change in Nigeria.

He noted that it is normal for people who are not satisfied with the State of affairs to find a remedy to such dissatisfactions by going to places where they think they could have a platform.

He, however, stressed that the first set of people who are not satisfied and who have chosen the SDP are the poor masses of Nigeria because, according to him, “the problems in our governance impact the people more than the elite when you talk of hunger, unemployment, insecurity and rising factor costs among other social problems.”

He also said they cannot prevent those who want to join the party from doing so, irrespective of such people’s ambition.

He said: “We cannot criticise people’s motives for coming. A political party is a public institution, like a Church or a Mosque. When somebody’s presence is marked in a Mosque and wants to pray, you cannot say, where were you last night? Where have you been during your life? Let them pray.

“If you come to a Church, you sit at the pew and you say you want to kneel and pray, the Pastor cannot say, ‘wait, I saw you at the nightclub last night’. He has to allow you to pray. So, coming to the Mosque to pray does not mean that you will be made the Chief Imam. Coming to the Church to pray doesn’t mean you are going to be anointed as a Bishop, but you are free to come because it’s a place that allows everyone to come.”

Adebayo decried a situation where certain individuals tried to manipulate the system from the shadows, even as he expressed hope that the political space was already evolving.

“Many of those who worked closely with Professor Mahmoud Yakubu at the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in 2023 are no longer there. Integrity is key, and the law must take its full course. The SDP’s message is clear. We stand for the people. We are not just another big-name political party; we are a movement driven by young people and women who want real change,” he said.

He further stated that the SDP is well organized and focused, insisting that discipline and integrity are the party’s watchwords. He advised those entering the party to drop their egos and follow the rules guiding the party.

He said: “If you want to get rid of an incumbent, you have to have discipline more than the incumbent. If you come and start fighting silliness and any seriousness, you are creating a gap that the ruling party would readily take advantage of, and you can’t blame them.

“So this is the kind of orientation. When you come in, leave your ego at the door. Leave your ambition at the door. Leave all your problems at the door,” he said.

Adebayo also noted that the SDP, as a party, does not have any problem with President Tinubu as a person but with the misgovernance that has characterised his administration.

“There may be a member of our party who has a dispute with somebody like Tinubu or whatever. We don’t have a dispute with Tinubu. We have a dispute with their misgovernance. So we want to focus on that. We don’t have an issue with anybody in person.

“If you don’t govern well, you are working against Nigerian people, their welfare and their security. You are breaching Chapter 2 of the Constitution, and violating your oath of office and we will tackle you on that basis. So, we don’t want to know your personal affairs.”

Group Gives Reason Behind Move For Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Recall

By
Akinwale Kasali
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Natasha Akpoti
Natasha Akpoti

By Akinwale Kasali

Kogi Central Women seek her replacement

The call for the replacement and recall of  suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has intensified. A Group under the auspices of Kogi Central Concerned Stakeholders has announced its decision to proceed with her recall process  from the Senate.

The Group said the move is based on the negative image her dispute with Senate President, Godswill Akpabio has cast on the Constituency.

Jafar Aliu Kamaldeen, the Group’s Spokesperson stated: “We, the Kogi Central Concerned Stakeholders, have been observing the ongoing developments involving our senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, the Nigerian Senate, and Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

“A review of events leading to her suspension for gross misconduct and unruly behavior has raised concerns about whether she is truly protecting the interests of the people of Kogi Central.”

The group further emphasized that the National Assembly is an esteemed institution with rules meant to preserve its integrity.

They supported the Senate’s six-month suspension of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, following the recommendation of the Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions Committee, arguing that she flouted the chamber’s regulations.

It expressed disappointment that despite the Senate’s offer to reconsider the suspension if she tendered a written apology, she has refused to do so.

“Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has clearly failed to prioritize the collective interest of Kogi Central. Her refusal to apologize means our voices will be silenced in the Senate for six legislative months, equivalent to twelve calendar months.”

They also criticized her appearance at the United Nations Inter-Parliamentary Union meeting, where she framed her suspension as a result of sexual harassment allegations. The group claimed this move misrepresented the issue on a global stage instead of seeking redress through internal Senate mechanisms or the courts.

The Group lamented that since her suspension, she has failed to communicate with her constituents or hold a town hall meeting, despite actively engaging voters when campaigning.

It stated that it was due to her inaction and perceived abandonment of her constituents, the group announced the launch of the recall process: “Since she has refused to apologize and left us without representation, we, the people of Kogi Central, have resolved to commence the process of recalling Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. This will allow us to elect a responsible, law-abiding representative in the Senate.”

However, the Kogi Central Women Development Association formally denounced her as their senator and called for mobilization to ensure her recall.

“We demand an apology from her. We will mobilize other groups in Kogi Central to initiate the recall process. It is time for us to elect a representative who is people-centered, law-abiding, and free from unnecessary drama.”

The Kogi Central Concerned Stakeholders and Kogi Central Women Development Association have both criticized Akpoti-Uduaghan, citing her failure to engage her constituents and mishandling of her suspension.

They have formally launched a recall process, seeking a new senator to replace her.

Obi to NASS: Use Of Voice Vote On Crucial National Matters Adding Salt To Injury

By
The Source
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Peter Obi

The Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, has berated members of the National Assembly for using voice vote on such crucial national matters as a breach of the constitution.

Obi, who had made a passionate appeal to members of the National Assembly not to endorse the illegal removal of the Rivers State Governor Similaya Fubara in the state of Emergency declared by President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday, decried the use of voice vote in the parliament to determine their position on such vital issues.

Writing on his X handle on Thursday Obi noted that “While still agonizing over the ongoing deterioration of democracy in our nation,  especially with the situation in Rivers State, and trying to reach out to our National Assembly members not to support and sustain the unconstitutionality and arbitrariness, I just heard that they have added salt to injury by using a voice vote.

“The Constitution is clear that this cannot be done through a voice vote but by calling individuals to answer ‘yes’ or ‘no.’

“You cannot determine a two-thirds majority by a voice vote.

“While a two-thirds majority is crucial, it does not justify bypassing proper procedures and undermining the principles of transparency and accountability. The use of a voice vote in such a significant decision not only disregards constitutional requirements but also erodes public trust in the democratic process. Decisions of such magnitude must be made with integrity, following the letter and spirit of the law.

“It’s disheartening that a decision as crucial as approving an emergency proclamation — one that could alter the course of the nation — was handled with such casual disregard for constitutional standards. “The 1999 Constitution of Nigeria (as amended) clearly requires that such a proclamation must be approved by at least two-thirds of all members of each House — the Senate and the House of Representatives. A simple call of “Aye” or “Nay” cannot accurately measure this crucial threshold.

“When a supermajority is required, it demands a recorded vote — whether by division, roll call, or electronic means. This isn’t just a technicality; it’s a matter of law and legitimacy. The Senate Standing Orders and House Rules were established to ensure that decisions of this magnitude are made transparently, with accountability. Ignoring these procedures is not just an oversight; it is a betrayal of the democratic process.

“A voice vote for such a critical matter is not just insufficient; it’s a dangerous precedent. If we can bend the rules so easily, what stops us from undermining other pillars of democracy? Today, it’s a voice vote on a state of emergency — tomorrow, it could be a voice vote on citizens’ fundamental rights.

“It is painful to think that members of the National Assembly, who swore to uphold the Constitution, could participate in a process that sidesteps the very essence of due process. We must ask ourselves: If the law no longer anchors our decisions, then what does?

“This is not just a flawed procedure; it is a warning signal. We cannot afford to gamble with the soul of our democracy.

Edo Gov Backs Out Of South South Govs Position On Rivers, Declares “I Stand With Tinubu”

By
Ayodele Oni
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Governor Monday Okpebholo

By Ayodele Oni

Apparently trying to toe the line of his godfathers, Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo, has distanced himself from the stand of South South Governors’ Forum on the declaration of emergency rule in Rivers State.

Okpebholo, just above three months in office, with the outcome of his election still being challenged at the tribunal, rejected the position of the South-South Governors’ Forum, on the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State proclaimed by President Bola Tinubu.

The South-South Governors’ Forum had in a statement called for the reversal of the state of emergency. It argued that the situation does not meet constitutional requirements.

Chairman of the Forum, Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State, who signed the statement, urged the federal government to seek a more peaceful resolution.

“To reduce tensions and establish a foundation for enduring peace, we propose the rescission of the state of emergency,” the statement read.

However, the Edo Governor who is a member of the Forum said he was neither consulted, nor informed before taking the position.

The statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, noted that Okpebholo stands with President Tinubu.

He said: “While Governor Monday Okpebholo acknowledges the right of other Governors in the South-South geopolitical zone to take a position, he, however dissociates himself from any statement that opposes the declaration of a State of Emergency in Rivers State by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

“Bola Ahmed Tinubu, President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Commander-In-Chief of the Armed Forces, understands the issues at stake.

“Governor Okpebholo supports actions so far taken by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu that will bring lasting solutions and peace to Rivers State and the South-South geopolitical zone.”

Faces Of Leaders Of New Political Coalition For 2027

By
Ayodele Oni
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Atiku Abubakar and Babachir Lawal and Peter Obi

By Ayodele Oni

Some of the arrowheads that are members of the Coalition which sent signal to President Bola Tinubu ahead 2027 general elections apart from former vice president, Atiku Abubakar are Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, who was represented by Yunusa Tanko,  and former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal

Others are former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, National Secretary of the Coalition of United Political Parties, Peter Ahmeh, and Convenor of the Alternative, Segun Showunmi, among others.

Among those whose apologies were announced were former governors Rotimi Amaechi (Rivers), Kayode Fayemi (Ekiti), and the immediate past National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Abdullahi Adamu, among others.

The Coalition has vowed to wrestle power from Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2027, accusing him of tendering towards an autocratic leader.

The Abuja press conference was called to condemn the emergency rule in Rivers State which was described as undemocratic and against the constitution.

The former vice president declared at the event that “We, a cross-section of leaders and political stakeholders from across the country, have come together to address the dangerous and unconstitutional actions taken by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, on March 18, 2025—to wit, the declaration of a State of Emergency in Rivers State and the illegal suspension of the Governor, Deputy Governor, and the State House of Assembly.

“This action is not only unlawful but a clear attempt to subvert democracy and impose federal control over a duly elected state government.

“We strongly condemn this development and call on all Nigerians of good conscience to resist this brazen assault on constitutional governance.”

NYSC Members To Enjoy New Pay March Ending – DG

By
Ayodele Oni
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NYSC - Corps Members

By Ayodele Oni

The Director General of National Youth Service Corps, Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu has assured that serving Corps Members would be credited with their new monthly allowance of N77,000 with effect from March, 2025.

He said the Scheme and Federal Government are responsive to their welfare and would continue to ensure that their well-being is accorded maximum priority at all times.

The increment had been approved for the corpers since last year but they were still being paid with the old rate up till February.

After it seemed that their expectation on the increment in allowance had been dashed, one of the youth corps members serving in Lagos described President Bola Tinubu as “terrible.”

The Director General raided the hope on Thursday, while interacting with Corps Members in Wuse and Garki NYSC Zonal Offices of the Federal Capital Territory in Abuja.

Nafiu, who thanked the Corps Members for their selfless service to the nation, advised them to remain calm, dedicated, focused and disciplined.

He lauded the founding fathers of the Scheme for conceiving the vision, while he advocated that all and sundry should rally round the Scheme.

Nafiu added that NYSC is a beautiful Scheme that is building bridges and exposing graduate youths to learn and understand the cultural values of places outside their places of birth.

He stated further that Management would continue to instill the virtues of patriotism, discipline , self-restraint, good morals, leadership qualities and teamwork in the successive batches of Corps Members.

“With effect from March, you are going to receive the sum of Seventy-Seven Thousand Naira as your monthly allowance.

“NYSC is good at record keeping and l can assure you that your money will be paid. The Nation and the Scheme appreciate you.”

Speaking on behalf of her colleagues at Garki Zone, Corps Member Zaka Deborah Alheri FC/24A/5831, lauded the Director General for his conscientious efforts towards the payment of their increased monthly allowance.

Atiku Leads Coalition To Stop Tinubu’s Second Term

By
Ayodele Oni
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Atiku Abubakar and Bola Tinubu

By Ayodele Oni

A Political Coalition led by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar is in the offing. Its aim: To sack President Bola Tinubu in 2027.

The Coalition, according to Atiku, is bipartisan and already strategising to end the reign of Tinubu and All Progressive Congress ( APC) possibly at the federal level.

Atiku revealed at a world press conference in Abuja, convened against the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers state, that Tinubu’s dictatorship and draconian rule must end in 2027 through the ballot box.

He confirmed leading political stakeholders across party lines in Nigeria to rise up against Tinubu pointing that Mr. President’s actions and uttrances betray acceptable democratic norms .

Atiku pointed out that Tinubu’s reliance on section 305 of the constitution and veil reference to violence in Rivers state to declare a state of emergency was a make-shift evidence like a premeditated arrangement working from answers to questions.

He urged Nigerians of good conscience to rise up and reject the unprovoked and unwarranted state of emergency in Rivers state.

To the National Assembly, he told members to be patriotic and rise up to defend their fatherland by voting against injustice and oppression allegedly being perpetrated by President Tinubu.

“We, a cross-section of leaders and political stakeholders from across the country, have come together to address the dangerous and unconstitutional actions taken by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, on March 18, 2025—to wit, the declaration of a State of Emergency in Rivers State and the illegal suspension of the Governor, Deputy Governor, and the State House of Assembly.

“This action is not only unlawful but a clear attempt to subvert democracy and impose federal control over a duly elected state government.

“We strongly condemn this development and call on all Nigerians of good conscience to resist this brazen assault on constitutional governance.

“Seemingly, Mr President’s illegal and unconstitutional proclamation was driven by the protracted insidious political crisis in Rivers State, culminating in the recent ruling of the Supreme Court.

“Ordinarily, all parties involved would have been expected to follow laid-down procedures, motivated by good faith, to quickly implement the judgment of the highest court of the land.

“We note that Governor Fubara’s disposition is geared towards full implementation of the ruling of the Supreme Court, despite provocative statements from opposing quarters.

“It is also notable that Mr President’s broadcast to the nation on 18th March 2025 betrayed his bias and is infra dig of the sophisticated communication expected from the highest office in the land.

“By so doing, the President dragged himself and his highly exalted office into the arena of the political brawl, thereby denigrating his high office through inelegant language, predisposed excessiveness and malignant deportment.”

The coalition demands among Others immediate “Others immediate Reversal: We call on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to immediately revoke this unconstitutional proclamation and reinstate the elected Governor, Deputy Governor, and State Assembly of Rivers State.

“National Assembly’s Rejection: We call on patriotic Senators and Representatives to vote against this illegal action when it comes before them for approval. The National Assembly must not be used to legitimise an unconstitutional power grab.

“Judicial Intervention: We urge the judiciary to act swiftly in striking down this proclamation, as it sets a dangerous precedent that could be used to arbitrarily remove any Governor in the future.

“Nigerians Must Defend Democracy: We call on all civil society organisations, political groups, and Nigerians of good conscience to stand firm in the defence of this democracy that we have all toiled to build.

“Rivers State is not a conquered territory, and Nigeria is not a dictatorship requiring the replacement of an elected Governor with a military administrator.

“A peaceful Niger Delta is critical to the economic health and stability of Nigeria. The federal government should not manufacture political crises that could disrupt this fragile stability.

“We must never allow personal political interests to override the principles of federalism, democracy, and constitutional governance. This is not just about Rivers State—it is about the future of Nigeria’s democracy.”

Ibadan Christmas Carnage: Oyo Govt Drops Charges Against Ex Ooni’s Wife, Two Others

By
Ayodele Oni
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Ibadan Children party stampede and Naomi Silekunola arrested

By Ayodele Oni

Ex Ooni’s Wife, Queen Naomi Silekunola and two others  charged to Court in connection with a stampede in Ibadan, Oyo state last year December have cause to heave a sigh of relief.

The charges against them have been dropped.

Oyo State Government officially withdrew the criminal charges against  the ex-wife of the Ooni of Ife, Oriyomi Hamzat, the owner of Agidigbo FM; and Abdullahi Fasasi, the principal of the Islamic High School, Bashorun, Ibadan, over the tragic stampede that claimed the lives of at least 35 children during a children’s festive party in December 2024.

The defendants were visibly elated, smiling and exchanging pleasantries after the trial on Thursday, signalling their relief and release from the charges.

The development was later confirmed by the State’s Attorney General, Abiodun Aikomo, who addressed the media after the court session.

Speaking in a live coverage on Facebook, the Attorney General said: “It was an unfortunate incident that led to the death of many. And you see, in law, whenever death occurs and the circumstances are not natural, the law will take its course. So the state responded by filing charges against the persons implicated in the investigation.

“In the course of doing that, we actually wanted to prosecute but the affected persons showed empathy. They showed compassion. And as far as human beings can do, they try to persuade the feelings of the affected parties.

“And the circumstance, we felt, the essence of prosecution is not to kill people or persecute them. It is in the interest of justice to discontinue these charges, and that is what happened today.”

This decision comes after an intense period of legal proceedings. Earlier, the Oyo State High Court in Ibadan had granted bail to Naomi, Hamzat, and Fasasi.

Senate Seals Fubara’s Fate, Approves State of Emergency

By
Adesina Soyooye
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Siminalayi Fubara
Governor Siminalayi Fubara

By Adesina Soyooye

Following the footsteps of the House of Representatives, the Nigerian Senate, has  approved the State of Emergency imposed on Rivers State by President Bola Tinubu.

The President had, in a nationwide broadcast Tuesday, suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his Deputy, Dr. Ngozi Odu, and the Members of the Rivers State House of Assembly from office for six months. He, also, appointed a retired Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ette Ibas as the Sole Administrator for an initial period of six months.

Tinubu’s action was met with outrage from individuals, politicians and groups. And, not a few people harbored the hope  that the Senate would either not approve of it, or would modify it.

However, after a closed door session Thursday where Senators deliberated on the President’s request and actions, they were approved.

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