Marking Democracy Day, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, described Nigeria’s democratic system as a stabilising force in West Africa. In an official statement through his spokesperson, Alkasim Abdulkadir, Tuggar highlighted the country’s unwavering commitment to democratic principles, even as the region faces increasing political turmoil. Tuggar noted that Nigeria’s adherence to regular elections, peaceful transitions, and constitutional governance has set a positive example for neighbouring countries. “Nigeria stands as a beacon of hope and stability in the region,” he declared, acknowledging the resilience of the nation’s democratic institutions despite their imperfections. He stressed that Nigeria’s dedication to…
Author: Oluwadara Akingbohungbe
Democracy Day celebrations in Nigeria are overshadowed by widespread protests as the Take It Back Movement and allied groups mobilise in Abuja and 19 other cities to demand an end to economic hardship and insecurity. President Bola Tinubu, who cancelled his scheduled nationwide address, will instead speak at a joint session of the National Assembly. Segun Imohiosen, spokesperson for the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, confirmed the change, citing Tinubu’s legislative engagement. Security forces have increased their presence. Protest leader Juwon Sanyaolu says, “The unprecedented hardship and insecurity we have experienced under his government are alarming. Nigerians will…
Paul Ibe, a media aide to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, has accused President Bola Tinubu’s administration of being fearful of an emerging opposition coalition aimed at unseating the government in the 2027 elections. This claim came in response to comments made by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, who dismissed the coalition’s chances of success. Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Wednesday, Ibe countered Wike’s skepticism, arguing that the negative narrative around the coalition was a deliberate attempt by Tinubu’s camp to undermine the opposition out of fear. He urged Nigerians to remain united and…
The streets of Ibadan, capital of Oyo State, are currently plastered with posters of veteran Yoruba broadcaster Oriyomi Hamzat, signaling a possible political move ahead of the 2027 general elections. The posters bear the phrase “2027 Oyo n pe o” and feature a black-and-white portrait of Hamzat, though they do not specify the political role he might seek. A video posted by a supporter group and cited by our correspondent on Wednesday shows Hamzat at an event where he was greeted with h chants urging him to answer the call of Oyo people. The crowd repeatedly shouted, “Okiki (Hamzat), Oyo…
In a significant development, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd), the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, has presented the state’s ₦1.48 trillion 2025 budget proposal to the House of Representatives Ad-Hoc Committee on Rivers State Oversight in Abuja. The budget notably accounts for the expected return of suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara and other political figures following the emergency administration period. Ibas underscored that the budget is crafted in line with the Rivers State Development Plan 2017-2027, offering a strategic and integrated approach to boost revenue, develop infrastructure, and foster inclusive economic growth. He explained that the budget maintains allocations for suspended…
In a decisive ruling, the Court of Appeal in Abuja has struck out two motions filed by Senate President Godswill Akpabio in the matter involving Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, ordering Akpabio to pay ₦100,000 in costs. The motions, dated March 3 and 25, 2025, were filed as part of Akpabio’s attempt to challenge a Federal High Court decision delivered on March 10, 2025, in Suit No: FHC/ABJ/CS/384/2025. The motions sought to extend the time to appeal and to stay further proceedings in the suit brought by Akpoti-Uduaghan. The respondents in the case are Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, the Clerk of the National Assembly,…
The Federal Government of Nigeria has issued a stern warning to the public regarding fraudulent recruitment letters currently being disseminated on social media platforms. These fake documents claim to offer job opportunities within the country’s paramilitary services, targeting vulnerable job seekers. According to an official statement released on Tuesday by the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board, the Board’s Secretary, AM Jibril, clarified the situation. He confirmed that while the President has granted approval for recruitment into the four paramilitary services under the Board’s supervision, the recruitment exercise itself has not yet begun. The Board emphasized that all…
Christian Obodo, a former midfielder for Nigeria’s Super Eagles, has advised Victor Osimhen to strike a balance in his career choices as transfer rumors continue to swirl around the striker. Obodo pointed out that Osimhen’s hefty release clause and salary expectations have discouraged some top European clubs from making a move. Obodo explained, “I know Osimhen would still like to play European football and achieve a lot but the clause Napoli put on him and his wages is scaring clubs away. The clubs do not want to make a decision that will bounce back and make them regret.” He also…
The Ondo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal, presided over by Justice Benson Ogbu, upheld APC candidate Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s election victory on June 4, 2025, dismissing the petitions from PDP’s Agboola Ajayi and other parties as frivolous and lacking merit. Following the ruling, APC supporters celebrated in Akure, prompting Ajayi to claim that the party had advance knowledge of the tribunal’s decision, suggesting a leak. He announced plans to appeal the judgment, criticizing the tribunal for not thoroughly considering the evidence submitted. The APC swiftly rejected Ajayi’s allegation, demanding an unreserved apology to the judiciary and the electorate. Steve Otaloro, the…
In a significant cultural ceremony held on Tuesday, the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, was honoured with the prestigious chieftaincy title of ‘Ugosimba 1 of Enugu’ by the Enugu State Traditional Rulers Council. The title, meaning “jewel” or “eagle from another kingdom,” was bestowed upon her during her official two-day working visit to the state. Chairman of the Council, Igwe Ikechukwu Asadu, outlined the reasons behind the conferment, highlighting Senator Tinubu’s dedication to Enugu State, her humanitarian service, and her national developmental efforts. “You served three terms in the Senate and were honoured with the Commander of the…