The Senate, on Monday, ruled out a reversal of the six-month suspension imposed on Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central.
Senate spokesman, Yemi Adaramodu, speaking exclusively with The PUNCH on Monday, dismissed any pressure to reinstate Akpoti-Uduaghan, emphasising that the legislative body would adhere strictly to its rules.
He said, “There is no pressure anywhere that can take our eyes away from our noble statutes. The Senate will always regulate her conduct, as empowered in the Nigerian Constitution and as enshrined in our Standing Orders.
“The Senate is currently busy, working on the tax reform bills and preparing equally for the constitution review. We want to reflect the feelings of Nigerians on the Electoral Act before the 2027 elections.”
Taking a rather evasive position, the Senate Minority Leader, Abba Moro, also asserted that: “There is no pressure,” adding, however, that “Sometimes it is wisdom to allow time to heal wounds.”
Akpoti-Uduaghan was suspended on March 6, 2025, after the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions found her guilty of breaching the Senate Standing Orders.
Her suspension followed a heated exchange with Senate President Godswill Akpabio during plenary.
Meanwhile, Senate President Akpabio has contested the jurisdiction of the Federal High Court in Abuja to hear Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suit challenging her suspension.
Through his legal team, led by Kehinde Ogunwumiju (SAN), Akpabio argued that the court had no authority to interfere in the internal affairs of the Senate, insisting that legislative matters should be resolved internally.
Akpoti-Uduaghan had approached the Federal High Court seeking to stop the Senate Ethics Committee from investigating her.
On March 4, 2025, Justice Obiora Egwuatu summoned the Senate to appear before it and explain why Akpoti-Uduaghan’s prayers should not be granted.
The court directed the Senate to justify, within 72 hours, why it should not be permanently restrained from investigating the senator for alleged misconduct.
Justice Egwuatu also ordered that all court documents be served on the National Assembly through its Clerk or by publication in two national newspapers.
At the resumed hearing on Monday, Ogunwumiju argued that the plaintiff had not properly served him the court processes.
However, Akpoti-Uduaghan’s counsel, Michael Numa (SAN), countered that all parties had been served, presenting affidavits of service.
After reviewing the documents, Justice Egwuatu confirmed service and adjourned the case until March 25, 2025, directing all parties to file necessary responses before the next hearing.
Akwa Ibom group tackles Saraki
In a related development, the Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District Professionals in Akwa Ibom State has condemned former Senate President Bukola Saraki for his comments on the Natasha-Akpabio dispute.
Saraki had called for an open, transparent, and fair investigation by the Senate, but the Akwa Ibom group accused him of attempting to interfere in the Senate’s internal matters.
In a statement signed by its National President, Edidiong John, and National Secretary, Kemfon Neke, the group argued that Saraki’s remarks could undermine due process.
“The pendency of this case in the judicial system renders any parallel investigation by the Senate improper and beyond its authority at this stage. This is not a matter of politicization, but a straightforward application of legal and parliamentary norms,” the statement read.
The group urged Saraki to respect the legal process, emphasising that Akpoti-Uduaghan had already filed a petition with the Senate Committee on Ethics, which would determine whether the Senate had jurisdiction over the matter.
“It is only the courts and the Ethics Committee that are the proper avenues for resolution. Nigerians expect the Senate to uphold its integrity and credibility within the bounds of the law,” the statement added.
The Senate is set to resume plenary on Tuesday, March 11, 2025.
Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have rescued 75 civilians from Sambisa Forest in Borno State.
Addressing newsmen on Monday during the victims’ handover to the Borno State government in Maiduguri, the General Officer Commanding 7 Division of the Nigerian Army, Maj. Gen. W. Shaibu stated that the rescued individuals comprised seven adult males, 34 women, and 34 children.
The GOC, represented by the Deputy Theater Commander, Brig. Gen. A.L. Akpodu explained that the civilians were rescued during a clearance operation conducted by the 21 Special Armored Brigade and the 199 Special Forces Battalion under Operation Desert Sanity IV in Sambisa Forest.
“As part of our ongoing clearance efforts, troops of the 21 Special Armored Brigade and the 199 Special Forces Battalion recently carried out successful offensive operations in Sambisa Forest,” he said.
“Key terrorist enclaves in Ukuba, Ujimla, Sabil Huda, Garin, Fajula, and Gobara were cleared, leading to the rescue of 75 civilians, including seven adult males, 34 women, and 34 children,” he added.
He further noted that the military destroyed several insurgent facilities during the operation.
“The operation significantly degraded enemy capabilities by neutralising insurgents and destroying command and logistics bases, makeshift shelters, weapon caches, and IED-making materials,” he said.
The rescued civilians have received medical and psychological support and are now set to be handed over to the Borno State government.
Receiving the victims on behalf of the state government, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Zuwaira Gambo, commended the troops for their gallantry in the fight against insurgency.
“We are taking them to our rehabilitation centre, where they will receive livelihood support, counseling services, mental health and psychosocial support, and educational services for the children. We will ensure they are well reintegrated before releasing them back into society,” she said.
The ongoing political feud between chieftains of the All Progressives Congress and the Osun State Government took a new turn on Monday as the immediate past Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mr. Adebayo Adeleke, accused his predecessor, Mr. Kolapo Alimi, of overseeing the withdrawal of N3.7bn by some officials of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria .
Adeleke, who served under former Governor Adegboyega Oyetola between 2019 and 2022, made the allegations while responding to a petition filed against him by the state government.
The petition, submitted to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, accused Adeleke of illegally securing renovation contracts for Primary Healthcare Centres while still in public office.
Addressing journalists in Osogbo alongside chairmen elected in the October 15, 2022, local government elections, Adeleke refuted the allegations and accused the current administration of financial mismanagement.
He claimed that part of the alleged missing funds was moved through ALGON officials who served under former Governor Rauf Aregbesola’s administration.
Adeleke further accused the current administration of mismanaging N2bn in COVID-19 relief funds and awarding contracts without following due process.
He alleged that from 2017 to 2018, substantial sums of money were withdrawn under Alimi’s supervision.
He cited a case on December 27, 2017, when a former ALGON Chairman, Jayeola Omoboyede, allegedly withdrew N60m on in six tranches of N10 million each.
He also claimed that on the following day, then ALGON Secretary and now Special Adviser to Governor Adeleke on Children’s Affairs, Temilade Olokungboye, withdrew N70m in a single transaction.
Adeleke further claimed that multiple withdrawals took place, including a N100m withdrawal on March 29, 2018, by Omoboyede and Olokungboye.
He insisted that the current administration was attempting to scapegoat him without proof while ignoring the financial activities of its own officials.
“They alleged that we laundered money, but they have no proof. Now, we have their records,” Adeleke declared.
Regarding allegations that he took a Primary Healthcare Centre renovation contract, Adeleke admitted that the company involved belonged to him but insisted he resigned from it upon his appointment as commissioner.
But firing back at Adeleke, Alimi challenged him to submit a formal petition to the EFCC if he believed he had a case.
Alimi insisted that the allegations against Adeleke were valid and not a political ploy, urging him to address the charges rather than seeking to deflect blame.
“First and foremost, the allegations against Adeleke sent to the EFCC are true. This is not tit for tat. If they believe there is a case against me, they should file a petition before the EFCC instead of making noise in the media,” Alimi said.
He argued that ALGON operates independently and is not directly under a commissioner’s supervision.
According to him, the officials mentioned were responsible for managing its accounts, and if Adeleke had evidence of irregularities, he should formally petition the authorities.
Alimi explained that, unlike Adeleke’s case where funds allegedly moved from local government accounts to private accounts, no such transactions occurred under his supervision.
He also pointed out that three individuals—Jayeola Omoboyede, Sekinat Olokungboye, and Kujembola (currently the APC state treasurer)—were signatories to the ALGON account at the time.
“Why did they fail to mention Kujembola? They are hypocrites. The Independent Corrupt Practices Commission has already invited Adeleke, and the EFCC will soon invite all of them for prosecution,” he added.
The federal government has confirmed that the Naira-for-crude-oil swap deal remains in place, countering recent reports of its termination at the end of this month.
The clarification followed reports that the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) has ended the agreement with local refiners including the Dangote Refinery.
Chairman of the Technical Sub-Committee on Crude-for-Naira initiative, Zacch Adedeji, responding to the reports said there is no decision at the policy level to discontinue the initiative.
Adedeji said these reports do not reflect the realities of the ongoing work under the Federal Executive Council Initiative on Domestic Sales of Crude Oil and Refined Products in Naira.
“Our attention has been drawn to reports suggesting that the Naira-based crude oil supply arrangement with local refineries has been discontinued, forcing them to rely solely on international crude purchases.
“As the committee driving the implementation of this initiative, we wish to provide an update on the Federal Executive Council initiative and confirm as follows: The Naira-Based Domestic Sales Framework Remains in Place.
“The policy framework enabling the sale of crude oil in naira for domestic refining remains in force. The initiative was designed to ensure supply stability and optimise the utilisation of local refining capacity.
“There has been no decision at the policy level to discontinue this approach nor is it being considered. After implementing the policy for some months, evidence abounds that it is the right way to go and it will continue to help the economy.
“The engagement process for crude oil supply to domestic refineries therefore remains in place by structured agreements, balancing factors such as availability, demand, and market conditions.
“There is no exclusion of local refineries from access to domestic crude. The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) is actively ensuring compliance with the Domestic Crude Oil Obligations provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act.”
Adedeji, who is also the chair of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), said that the framework for domestic crude transactions is designed to promote a competitive and efficient pricing environment.
“We remain committed to ensuring the efficient execution of this initiative in line with its core objectives – enhancing local refining, reducing foreign exchange exposure, and stabilising the domestic fuel supply,” he said.
[Leadership]
The Presidency and the ruling All Progressives Congress, on Monday, dismissed moves by former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, to galvanise opposition figures towards unseating President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 election.
They accused El-Rufai of being driven by “an inordinate ambition that is destined to fail” in his defection to the Social Democratic Party.
Also on Monday, the APC noted that El-Rufai’s plan to mobilise against Tinubu’s re-election in 2027 would not produce any significant outcomes.
El-Rufai, earlier on Monday, announced his defection from the APC to the opposition SDP, vowing to mobilise against the APC government in 2027.
“I will focus on engaging with and persuading other opposition leaders and parties to join us and congregate under a unified democratic platform to challenge the APC in all elections and by-elections,” El-Rufai stated.
Citing irreconcilable differences with the APC leadership, El-Rufai expressed disappointment in the ruling party, stating that over the past two years, the party had strayed from its progressive principles.
He highlighted his previous efforts to address internal issues privately and publicly, which he felt were ignored, leading to his decision to seek an alternative platform that aligns with his values.
In a resignation letter submitted to his ward in Kaduna State and shared on his X account, El-Rufai stated, “As a founding member of the All Progressives Congress, I have fond memories of working with other compatriots to negotiate the merger of political parties that created the APC.
“Since 2013, I have hoped that my personal values and those of the APC will continue to align until I choose to retire from politics.
“Developments in the last two years confirm that those who currently control and run the APC do not desire to acknowledge, much less address, the party’s unhealthy situation.
“I have raised concerns in private and, more recently, in public regarding the party’s capricious trajectory.
“Therefore, at this point in my political journey, I have come to the conclusion that I must seek another political platform to pursue the progressive values I cherish.
“Founders rightly feel attached towards institutions they helped create, but one must be pragmatic enough to admit when a divergence appears unbridgeable.”
It added, “I have diligently served the APC and made my contributions to its viability as a political platform, but I recognize that the party has since strayed and left me stuck in the vision of its well-meaning founding fathers and mothers.
“As a loyal party man, I worked to help secure the APC’s election victories in 2015, 2019 and 2023. I was one of the many governors elected on the party’s platform in 2015 and 2019 that stood for certain democratic and progressive principles to advance nation-building.”
El-Rufai confirmed he had submitted his resignation letter to the ruling party and further explained that after consulting with his mentors, colleagues and supporters, he decided to join the SDP in preparation for the 2027 general election.
“Without prejudice to this decision, as a member of the SDP, I will focus on engaging with and persuading other opposition leaders and parties to join us and congregate under a unified democratic platform to challenge the APC in all elections and bye-elections between now and 2027 by the grace of God,” he said.
Presidency tackles ex-gov
The Presidency, however, said El-Rufai’s switch to the SDP was a flawed move if he intended to unseat the governing party.
The Special Adviser to the President on Policy Communications, Daniel Bwala, stated that while El-Rufai has the constitutional right to change parties, his motives will be closely examined in the coming days.
Bwala, in a post on his verified X handle, @DanielBwala, downplayed El-Rufai’s political significance in politics, arguing that his relevance was neither sudden nor extraordinary.
He criticised the former governor’s decision to side with opposition figures, saying that attempting to unseat the incumbent government was not necessarily an ideological change.
Bwala wrote, “Senior, @elrufai, I read the news today that you resigned from APC to join SDP. Well, I have nothing against you because you exercised your constitutional right.
“However, the motive is what we would interrogate in the coming days and remind Nigerians that you are not a phenomenon that emerges like a clap of thunder out of a blue sky.
“We would intellectually remind you that associating with sore losers to unseat the incumbent is not an ideology, neither is it progressivism; It is simply an inordinate ambition that is destined to fail.”
In its reaction, the Kaduna APC said it was not worried by El-Rufai’s exit from the party, describing it as political gyration.
Speaking to journalists in Kaduna on Monday, the Kaduna APC Secretary, Yahaya Baba-Pate, said the party remained focused on securing the state for President Bola Tinubu and Governor Uba Sani in 2027.
Pate expressed confidence in the party’s growing strength in the state, pointing to the influx of prominent politicians into the party.
He assured APC members that El-Rufai’s departure would not impact the party’s prospects.
Pate said, “We are unperturbed by former Governor Nasir El-Rufai’s defection to another party. Our main focus in Kaduna is on how to deliver the state to both President Bola Tinubu and Governor Uba Sani in 2027.
“The APC in Kaduna State is growing day by day, judging from the calibre of politicians streaming into the party daily.
“So, we are not disturbed by anybody defecting to another party based on our governor’s inclusive governance in the state.
“We are not disturbed and we are not going to lose our sleep over El-Rufai’s moves. The party in the state is growing more than before.”
The former Federal Capital Territory minister had been associating with the 2023 Peoples Democratic Party presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, and other opposition political figures of late.
At a national conference on strengthening democracy in Nigeria, held in Abuja in January, El-Rufai asked the opposition parties in the country to unite to face the APC.
Also at the event were Atiku, a former governor of Ekiti State, Dr Kayode Fayemi; representative of the presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, among others.
El-Rufai, after the conference, granted an interview on Arise TV, where he blasted the leadership of the party for derailing from the vision of the founding fathers.
He criticised the National Executive Council and the Board of Trustees of the ruling party for failing to convene meetings throughout last year.
After the interview, he visited the national chairman of the SDP, Musa Garbam and the leadership of the Kaduna State chapter of the PDP.
He skipped a meeting of the APC national caucus and National Executive Council held last month in Abuja, claiming he did not get the invite.
The former Kaduna governor met with former President Muhammadu Buhari at the weekend, followed by a trip to Lagos to meet with former Osun State governor and former Minister of Interior, Rauf Aregbesola and the founder of the Citadel Global Community Church and former APC presidential aspirant, Pastor Tunde Bakare.
While the specifics of El-Rufai’s discussions with the two figures were not disclosed, the visits were believed to be part of his political manoeuvring ahead of the 2027 general election.
He rounded off his activities for Sunday with the breaking of fast at Atiku’s residence in Abuja.
Less than 24 hours after their meeting on Sunday evening, Atiku and El-Rufai were again seen together on Monday afternoon at the burial of a classmate of the former vice president, Prof Kharisu Chukkol, at the National Mosque, Abuja.
Posting the photo on his X handle, Atiku wrote, “Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un. With total submission to the will of the Almighty Allah, I joined others at the funeral prayer of my classmate, Prof Kharisu Chukkol, at the National Mosque, Abuja.
“May his family be comforted. I pray that Allah will forgive his sins and grant him Jannatul Firdaus. Amin. -AA.”
Sani carpets ex-gov
A former lawmaker, Shehu Sani, poohed-poohed El-Rufai’s move to the SDP, saying it would not alter the political landscape of the state.
Sani, who represented the Kaduna Central Senatorial District in the 8th National Assembly, noted that El-Rufai’s political relevance and influence had waned.
“Leaving APC for SDP wouldn’t make any difference for someone with no political relevance again,” he declared.
Sani also expressed the assurance that both Tinubu and Sani would secure re-election in 2027.
“But one thing is sure, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Uba Sani will be voted again,” he said.
Defection premature – Lukman
The former National Vice Chairman (North-West) of the APC and a key strategist in the ongoing proposed coalition among opposition parties, Salihu Lukman, bemoaned the defection of El-Rufai to the SDP.
Lukman, a loyalist of the ex-governor, said the defection was too premature and was not the kind of collective move they earlier projected.
The former Director-General of the Progressives Governors Forum disclosed this in an interview with some selected journalists in Abuja.
He said, “Yes, I am close to Mallam El-Rufai to the extent that we come from the same state and were in the same party.
“I had the privilege of being nominated by him to serve on the National Working Committee of the APC. Of course, as everybody knows, we have our own disagreements.
“It (defection) is expected. Even after the interview he granted on Arise TV, you can see the handwriting. However, I expected that he should have been a bit patient for us to walk out as a group, based on the ongoing negotiation.
“But he knows better, and I do hope his decision is not going to become like a kind of breakaway from whatever we are doing. I hope that in the end, we should be able to reconcile and work together under one platform.”
When asked if his camp and some key northern elites would join El-Rufai in the SDP, Lukman expressed reservations about the leadership of the opposition party.
The former APC chieftain, however, noted that they might take their chances if certain conditions were met.
He stated, “The challenge is whether SDP will submit itself to some of the conditions that we believe are necessary.
“Frankly speaking, unlike most conventional politicians, most conventional politicians who just want a platform where they will present candidates and use it to win elections, there are a few of us who believe the issue is beyond that.
“What Nigerians need is a platform that will promote political competition in the country. If you remember, the challenge Nigerians had with the PDP was the problem of imposition of candidates.
“When the APC came and promised ‘change’, the expectation was that we would change the culture of imposition.
“Unfortunately, we have failed in that. In fact, it has become worse. If things continue as they are, you can predict that President Tinubu will become the candidate of APC, and you can predict all the first-time governors of APC will emerge as the candidate of APC, whether they are popular in their states or not.”
He added, “You can also predict all legislators at federal and state levels, whether they have performed or not, will return. So long as they are in the good books of Asiwaju and the party leadership, they will be returned.
“So, we may move if the SDP meets the conditions I have highlighted. We are in discussion, no doubt about it. If they meet it tomorrow, fine.”
PDP, Utomi-led NCFront disagree
While the Pat Utomi-led National Consultative Front embraced El-Rufai’s return to the opposition, describing him as a strong and influential figure in the proposed mega coalition, the PDP referred to his defection to the SDP as a mistake.
In its response, the Pat Utomi-led National Consultative Front welcomed El-Rufai back to the opposition, describing him as a powerful and influential figure in the planned mega coalition.
NCFront’s Director-General, Olawale Okunniyi, praised El-Rufai’s coalition-building experience—particularly his role in establishing the APC—as a valuable asset in the ongoing talks to create a political alliance to challenge the APC in the 2027 elections.
Speaking to The PUNCH, Okunniyi highlighted El-Rufai’s negotiation skills, his experience as a former governor, and his strong political support in the northern region as crucial to the opposition’s strategy.
While noting that the SDP was one of the platforms being considered, Okunniyi mentioned that discussions on the coalition’s chosen platform were still ongoing and should be concluded by July.
He stated, “El-Rufai, coming from the North and being a former governor who previously collaborated with General Muhammadu Buhari, is a significant force. He cannot be underestimated.
“He has successfully built coalitions before, facilitated high-level discussions, and played a vital role in promoting an alternative political platform. His experience makes him a formidable and influential force.
“Mallam Nasir El-Rufai is once again welcomed back to the fold of the opposition in Nigeria, just as he was embraced into the Congress for Progressive Change in 2012/2013 during the formation of the APC.
“It appears that he and others within the APC are working to establish their opposition platform, enabling them to actively engage in the ongoing consultations and discussions aimed at creating a mega coalition party to challenge the ruling party.”
Okunniyi also disclosed that a national political summit for opposition stakeholders was planned for July, where a final decision on the coalition’s platform would be made.
He, however, said the decision would be made through a bottom-up approach, ensuring the selected party reflected the interests of all involved stakeholders.
“Discussions regarding the opposition platform for the 2027 elections have reached an advanced stage.
“El-Rufai and his allies must strategically align themselves with a credible opposition platform to effectively participate in the ongoing consultations and negotiations.
“They cannot claim to represent the APC in these opposition engagements,” he explained.
He further noted that a mega-platform of opposition stakeholders was expected to emerge in the coming months, based on extensive consultations and a consensus-building process.
“One certainty is that whichever platform is ultimately chosen must undergo rebranding and restructuring to accommodate the diverse interests involved in these negotiations,” he said.
Okunniyi added that while forming a new political party remains an option—provided the Independent National Electoral Commission does not pose an obstacle—existing opposition parties such as the Labour Party, SDP, PDP, African Democratic Congress, and New Nigeria People’s Party could also be adopted.
The PDP National Deputy Youth Leader, Timothy Osadolor, however, referred to El-Rufai’s defection to the SDP as a mistake.
Osadolor, in an interview with The PUNCH, pointed out that a strong politician like El-Rufai should have joined the PDP, which he called the most powerful opposition party in Nigeria.
He stated, “El-Rufai’s defection from the APC further confirms the issues within the ruling party. He is a critical stakeholder in Northwest politics.
“He is a great strategist and a valuable asset that any strong political party would want to have. However, I believe he made a mistake by joining the SDP.
“The PDP platform remains the most credible and viable opposition party in Nigeria, with all the necessary reach to challenge the APC.”
The SDP presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, Adewole Adebayo, welcomed the former Kaduna State governor to the party.
Writing on his verified X handle, @Pres_Adebayo, he said: “On behalf of the teeming members of the SDP and patriotic democrats who believe in Nigeria and her promise of inevitable greatness, I heartily welcome my dear brother El-Rufai to our party.
“With the hardworking and sagacious Mallam joining our ranks, an avid worker for the people has been enlisted in our forces against poverty and insecurity.
“Now is the time for us to put our collective shoulders behind the efforts to fulfil Chapter 2 of the Constitution and rescue Nigerians from bad governance and underdevelopment to restore #HopeAgain 2027 to the suffering masses callously left behind in the locust years of the APC and its co-traveller PDP.”
He emphasised that all genuine democrats and true nationalists who believed in order, decency and honesty were welcome to the SDP, “where we are governed by law, not men, the constitution not constipation of money or personal ambition.”
Adebayo added, “Together, following the law, the constitution and the manifesto of our party, we can set a good example of clean and ethical politics to emulate and rally Nigeria to the forefront of the liberation of Africa and peoples of the Black World.
“Good politics begets good governance. Let no one sit on the fence any further. There is no time to waste. Join us on the March again. God bless Nigeria.”
[Punch]
PRESIDENT Bola Tinubu, yesterday, said he removed fuel subsidy to protect the future of the unborn generation.
President Tinubu stated this at the inauguration of the National Youth Congress Planning Committee at the Council Chambers, Presidential Villa, Abuja.
The President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to youth empowerment, declaring that the government policies were designed to secure a prosperous future.
He said: “I’ve listened to you carefully, today is not for long speeches, I just want to reassure you that you are the hope of the country. Everything hangs on your future, every decision that I’ve taken is all about tomorrow.
“When you remove oil subsidy, you’re protecting the future of generations yet unborn, the youth. Where’s the investment for the infrastructure? When you listen to majority of professionals talking about Japa, leaving Nigeria, it’s because if you grow prosperity back home and you empower people, they will not bother to leave, they will stay home. This is your home, to develop, build and make prosper.
“Government of the day is all about you, take it very seriously. You can abuse politicians all you like, but politics is about development and about the future generation. I’m glad you are all here as a committee to inspire today, tomorrow and day after. I’m with you.”
Further, he said: “ When we started, it looked so foggy, dicey and hopeless. We tried hard and we were fetching water from a dry well, but today, the economy has turned the corner, prices are falling, confidence in our economy is improving, investors are looking in, technology is advancing. You have the opportunity.
“I’ve listened to the remark of your spokesperson, you have the great opportunity of advancing the development of this country, it’s all in your hands. Mine is to help navigate and push and lift the heavy weight problems, so I can clear the path for you to have a very great future, but it’s in your hands.
“Look at me in the face, tell me whatever you think is wrong and the way you want things done or suggestions. We’ll try to implement all of it as long as it is for the prosperity of this country.
“Mine is to assure you that we’ll do everything possible to make Nigeria a better place for you, but we can’t do it alone, you represent over 60 percent of our population, you’re the heartbeat of our nation and I hope you’ll take this opportunity very seriously.
Inaugurates Youth confab Planning c’ttee
“I am with you, I repeat again. I, therefore, inaugurate the committee. I wish you a very successful period, an interesting one. Let’s employ technology every way possible, let’s look at our farming conditions, let’s hear what we can do to empower youths in their firm spirit, let’s work for food sovereignty of this country.
“I like you, I can’t be youth again, maybe in the next life, I’m envious of all of you.”
In his remarks, Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, said the confab would be convoked to promote youth engagement.
Olawande noted that President Tinubu’s administration is a listening government ready to be attentive and incorporate the ideas and contributions of young people in governance.
He said that the members were carefully selected as representatives drawn from Federal Ministry of Finance, other related federal ministries, civil society organisations, non governmental organisations the World Bank amongst many others.
He said they were to champion and plan for the conference that would impact the life of youths of Nigeria.
A lead member of the youth confab planning committee and Executive Director of Yiaga Africa, Samson Itodo, lauded President Tinubu’s commitment in recognising the youths.
[Vanguard]
Abba Aliyu, the managing director of the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), says the federal government has approved the establishment of Renewable Asset Management Company.
Speaking at an event in Abuja on Monday, Aliyu said the Renewable Asset Management Company has a capital raise target of almost N1 trillion, which will serve as intervention funding in the industry in the absence of loans and grants.
“This is something that we want to achieve. To ensure the sustainability of all these interventions, the Rural Electrification Agency has secured the approval for the establishment of Renewable Asset Management Company,” he said.
“A company that will warehouse on its balance sheet all the mega assets, infrastructure that will be deployed at the universities, close to $500 million worth of assets.
“This company will warehouse these assets and will leverage on the assets to raise close to $1 trillion so that we will continue to intervene even if there is no availability of loans and grants.
“The country will be standing on its own to continue to drive electricity access and infrastructure in the next many years to come. So that ramp-up is also something that we have started, and we intend to make sure that it comes to reality before the end of the year.”
Also, Aliyu said by this time next year, “the first 600 megawatt line will be up and we will be able to begin to supply this local market, not just Nigeria, but also the continent as a whole”.
“It will also be the first, on the African continent, solar modular assembly plant with a recycling line,” he said.
“So we’re building a solar modular assembly plant in Nigeria that will not only roll out solar panels, but also be able to take solar panels that are no longer working, maybe due to age or dysfunction, and recycle them into raw materials that we can then send back to those who use them for different purposes.”
Aliyu said it is not only about building infrastructure for energy provision but to ensure that the supply chain is embedded within Nigeria.
[TheCable]
The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has expressed strong opposition to the implementation of new financial charges imposed on private companies by the Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria (FRCN) under the recently amended FRCN Act.
In a statement by the Director General of MAN, Segun Ajayi-Kabir, the charges threaten business survival and contradict the government’s ease of doing business agenda.
Ajayi-Kadir described the charges as “astronomical,” highlighting that non-listed manufacturing companies—most of which are MAN members—are now classified as Public Interest Entities (PIEs) and subjected to hefty fees.
“For instance, a new section 33 introduced under the FRCN Amendment Act, 2023, mandates annual charges for non-listed entities, calculated as a percentage of their annual turnover (maximum being 0.05% of the annual turnover for companies with turnover of more than N10 billion).
“For publicly quoted companies, the maximum payment earlier was N1 million per annum. Now, that amount is hiked to N25 million! Quite incredibly, for non-listed companies, who were previously excluded, there is no cap, and it is linked to the turnover, irrespective of whether the company is profitable or not,” the DG noted, quoting Section 33 of the FRCN Act 2023.
Ajayi-Kadir argued that beyond the financial burden on manufacturers, the act prescribes severe penalties, including a 10% monthly penalty for non-payment and potential imprisonment of up to six months for defaulting CEOs.
He stressed that this criminalization of non-payment of charges is excessive, arguing that nonpayment of fees typically attracts fines or regulatory penalties, not imprisonment.
“The strict penalties and possible conviction to imprisonment could be construed as having the nature of a criminal law. Generally, non-payment of fees/dues typically results in other penalties or fines and imprisonment provisions are applicable only in cases where non-payment is seen as an act of defiance or fraud,” he said.
Not the right time for new charges
MAN warned that the implementation of these charges at a time of economic difficulty could stifle investment in Nigeria’s productive sector.
The association, therefore, urged the FRCN to suspend the implementation of these fees and reconsider their alignment with Nigeria’s ongoing tax reform efforts.
“MAN therefore implores the FRCN to be mindful of the potential negative impact of its continued administration of the fees on businesses and put it on hold. As the umbrella body for manufacturers in Nigeria, we admonish the FRCN to await the enactments of the tax reform laws and realign its operations with the relevant provisions,” the DG noted.
According to Ajayi-Kadir, halting the implementation of the new FRCN charges would support the federal government’s broader fiscal and tax reform agenda, which aims to streamline regulations, harmonize taxes, and promote business growth
Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, has urged opposition members to join the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in a bid to unseat the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 elections.
El-Rufai made this known in a statement he personally signed on Monday, March 10, 2025, while announcing his resignation from the APC.
“Without prejudice to this decision, as a member of the SDP, I will focus on engaging with and persuading other opposition leaders and parties to join us and unite under a single democratic platform to challenge the APC in all elections and bye-elections between now and 2027, by the Grace of God.
“I, therefore, call on all our supporters and concerned Nigerians to join us in the SDP as we work towards making Nigeria a beacon of pride for Africans and the Black Race.”
El-Rufai’s decision follows a series of political consultations, including visits to former Minister of Interior Rauf Aregbesola, cleric Pastor Tunde Bakare, and former President Muhammadu Buhari.
These meetings have fueled speculation about his political future and possible strategic alliances ahead of the 2027 elections.
Resignation from APC
In his statement, El-Rufai acknowledged his long-standing contributions to the APC but expressed disappointment with the party’s current direction.
“Founders naturally feel attached to institutions they helped build, but pragmatism demands recognition when differences become irreconcilable. I have diligently served the APC and contributed to its growth, but the party has since deviated, leaving me stuck in the vision of its well-meaning founders.
“As a loyal party member, I worked to secure the APC’s victories in 2015, 2019, and 2023. My tenure as governor of Kaduna State focused on progressive policies in education, healthcare, infrastructure, job creation, and investment promotion. However, in the last two years, the APC has sidelined its structures and treated its members with contempt. This is no longer acceptable.”
El-Rufai confirmed that he had officially resigned from the APC, effective immediately, after consulting his mentors, colleagues, and political loyalists across the country.
“Today, March 10, 2025, I submitted my resignation letter to my ward in Kaduna. Moving forward, I have decided to adopt the SDP as my platform for political engagement and activities.”
Singer Korede Bello has addressed concerns from fans regarding his relative absence from the public eye, sharing a deeply introspective message on Instagram.
In an Instagram post made over the weekend and accompanied by Carlos Cipa’s instrumental piece The Place Where They Go, Korede opened up about his journey of self-discovery and the significance of inner peace.
Responding to frequent inquiries about his whereabouts, the singer stated, “Whenever I hear or see comments like ‘Where have you been?’ I’m always usually kind of surprised. Why? Because I’ve been here all along, with me, myself and I.”
He highlighted the importance of self-awareness over external validation, adding, “I’m grateful that I don’t have to ask myself ‘Korede, where are you?’ For it is better for the world to ask ‘Where have you been’ than for you to ask yourself ‘Who am I…. where am I?’”
Korede also reflected on the often-overlooked struggles of fame, stating, “Don’t you know that you can be extremely rich and famous but lost inside your mind? I have come to realize that the more you connect with yourself the less the world connects with you.”alize that the more you connect with yourself, the less the world connects with you.”
The ‘Godwin’ singer acknowledged that deep self-reflection often leads to noticeable changes in one’s outlook and interactions.
“You think different, you act different because you are different. They might even say ‘Who do you think you are?…’ But this hero’s journey is so necessary because you cannot truly stand out until you stand out and become outstanding,” he said.
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Presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in 2023, Adewole Adebayo, has welcomed former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai to the party.
Taking to X on Monday, Adebayo expressed his excitement, stating that El-Rufai’s entry strengthens the party’s mission to rescue Nigeria from years of poor governance and economic decline.
“On behalf of the teeming members of the @TheSDPNg and patriotic democrats who believe in Nigeria and her promise of inevitable greatness, I heartily welcome my dear brother @elrufai to our party.
“With the hardworking and sagacious Mallam joining our ranks, an avid worker for the people has been enlisted in our forces against poverty and insecurity,” Adebayo wrote.
He underscored the party’s commitment to fulfilling Chapter 2 of Nigeria’s Constitution, which addresses fundamental human rights, social justice and economic development.
Adebayo urged like-minded democrats and nationalists to join the SDP’s movement for national restoration.
“Good politics begets good governance. Let no one sit on the fence any further. There is no time to waste. Join us on the March Again! God bless Nigeria,” he added.
Natasha Osawuru, an Edo State House of Assembly member and the woman at the center of 2Baba’s latest love saga, has seen online, broke her silence after being accused of witchcraft by Rose Idibia, the singer’s mother.
It all began when 2Baba publicly confirmed his relationship with Natasha following his separation from Annie. In the wake of this revelation, his mother, in a viral video, expressed grave concerns, alleged that her son was no longer in his right mind.
She pointed fingers at Natasha, accused her of using jazz to control him and demanded that she remove the beads she had placed on his neck and wrist.
On Monday, March 10, Natasha reportedly addressed the allegations in an interview with renowned blogger Stella Dimoko Korkus.
She dismissed 2Baba’s mother’s claims of Juju, set the record straight about the much-debated beads.
As a princess from her royal lineage, Natasha revealed that the beads were sacred family heirlooms, gifted to her by her grandfather, the Esama of Benin, Chief Igbinedion.
According to her, 2Baba, known for his deep love for traditional accessories, admired them and decided to wear them, not under any spell, but purely out of appreciation for their cultural significance.
Natasha in Stella’s detailed interview, speaks;
“Those beads were given to me on my birthday, they represent a Princess from a Royal family, You know i am from the Igbinedion Royal Family.
“On my last Birthday, my mum gave me three nice beads, they call it “EZENEKA”which means River that never runs dry.
“The pearl on his neck was given to me by my grandad, the queen of England gave it to him when she was alive… You know my grandad was a knight to the Queen of England..
“So they are just traditional beads, he liked them and wore them, there is nothing to it and are not diabolical and do not also contain juju …
“I did not wear them on him, he saw them and liked them and wore them, if you observe you will see that he likes beads a lot and has been wearing several before now…”
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Popular content creator, actor, skit maker and activist, Adebowale “Debo” Adedayo, popularly known by his stage name, Mr Macaroni, has vowed not to acknowledge the Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the next time they meet.
In the past, Mr Macaroni, has been caught on camera avoiding Sanwo-Olu at public functions. During one of those exchanges, he was forced to greet the governor.
However, Mr Macaroni has now made it clear on the microblogging platform X, that he will never again be cajoled to interact with Sanwo-Olu in the future. He wrote:
“This is the last time I will address this matter. It is not worth my peace of mind.
“Since you people won’t stop attacking me because I didn’t greet Governor Sanwoolu, next time I see him, I still won’t greet him.
“And this time, even if he calls me I won’t answer. You people will cry today, tomorrow and forever!”
Mr Macaroni’s grudge with Sanwo-Olu may not be unconnected with his arrest during the ENDSARS protest in 2021.Mr Macaroni
In January, comedian, Oluwaseyitan Aletile, also known as Seyi Law mocked Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, after skit maker Mr Macaroni vowed to continue snubbing him.
Seyi Law reacted to a post of Mr Macaroni’s where the skit maker ranted about how he was humiliated by the government, hence losing respect for it.
The comedian then mocked Lagos state governor for acting like he doesn’t know him, yet he reportedly begs Mr Macaroni for a handshake.
Omowunmi Aloba, widow of the late singer Ilerioluwa Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad, caused a stir online with a deeply distressing live video that has left many shaken.
In the viral clip, Wunmi, her voice thick with fear and anguish, frantically cried out for help, claimed her little son, Liam, had been attacked.
The weight of her desperation was undeniable as she declared that she would never stay silent, unlike her late husband, who, according to her, remained quiet until the very end, only for his life to be cruelly taken.
With raw emotion spilling from her every word, Wunmi vowed to fight for Liam until her last breath, refusing to let history repeat itself.
She painted a chilling picture of the threats looming over her, recalled how she and her son were allegedly targeted for abduction and threatened with gun at Mohbad’s coroner’s inquest.
The terror in her voice made it clear she no longer felt safe, not inside her home, not outside, not anywhere.
As panic and uncertainty grip her, she pleaded with Nigerians, with anyone who still has a sense of justice, to come to her rescue.
According to her, Liam, an innocent child, is being dragged into a storm he never asked for, and she is determined not to let him become another casualty of silence.
Her desperate cry for help sparked concern among her live viewers, while others who saw the clip online reacted with worry, some raised eyebrows.