FEATURES

Exchange rate volatility: Naira still suffers loss of confidence despite recent gains – BDC operators

Admin

Bureau De Change (BDC) operators have revealed that despite the naira’s gains at the foreign exchange market during the week, the local currency is still suffering from a loss of confidence.

The licensed currency traders said that although it is usually a good development to see the naira gaining strength against other foreign currencies, it however, noted that the local currency is overburdened by devaluation at the official market and depreciation at the open market.

This was made known by the President of the Association of Bureau De Change Operators of Nigeria (ABCON), Aminu Gwadebe, during an exclusive chat with Nairametrics over the weekend.

Gwadebe said the appreciation of the naira can be attributed to the intervention of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) at the Electronic Foreign Exchange Matching System (EFEMS) window, which has significantly boosted supplies, as well as weaker demand in the market.

Naira experiencing attacks

ABCON had earlier revealed that the naira is fast becoming the most unpredictable currency in the world, noting that the local currency has been greatly affected by all kinds of wars ranging from trade, rate as well as speculative attack.

Gwadebe had earlier highlighted some of the challenges affecting the forex market, including global economic uncertainty, regulatory changes, technology advancements and market volatility.

The ABCON boss noted that economic slowdowns in major economies like the US, Europe and China have resulted in decreased trade volumes and increased market volatility.

He also stated that the recapitalization policy for the BDCs has given rise to compliance costs for forex brokers and impacted market liquidity.

In summary, he said that these challenges have resulted in increased market volatility, reduced liquidity, higher trading costs and greater regulatory scrutiny.

Sustaining positive performance of the naira

Gwadebe urged the CBN to always adopt a forward communication strategy on the good news and play down the bad news overloads as part of the ways to sustain the good performance of the naira in the foreign exchange market.

He said, ‘’The naira appreciated significantly at the open market from a low of N1580 per dollar to a higher level of N1545 per dollar during the week. The CBN intervention at the EFEMS window has significantly boosted supplies at the window, coupled with a weaker demand in the market.

‘’Yeah, it is always a good development to witness the local currency gaining strengths versus other foreign currencies but often overburdened by devaluation at the official market and depreciation in the open market.

‘’To achieve a continuing sustainability, the CBN should always adopt forward communication strategy on the good news and dampen the bad news overloads.

‘’Secondly, the CBN is the catalytic actor in the market and should ensure their deliberate intervention across markets extend not only to the wholesale window of banks but to the third leg window of the BDCs to boost supply at the critical retail end of the market.

‘’In all, the naira still suffers loss of confidence and players’ resistance to upload their position during naira hegemony.’’

What you should know

The BDC operators had attributed the crash of the naira in the foreign exchange market to the huge demand for forex due to the windfall from some contractual payments and releases by some Federal Government agencies.

Gwadebe, who admitted that the forex market is witnessing some unprecedented attacks, noted that the unfortunate development had once again given credence to the need for regulators to be consistent in the implementation of reforms and policies in a volatile forex market.
He had acknowledged that these occasional shocks in the foreign exchange market are fictitious, discretionary and a burble that will burst.
Gwadede had also urged the apex bank to revisit its earlier prudential percentage, targeting a fraction of the International Money Transfer Operators (IMTOs) proceeds received by the banks and Fintechs to the BDC window.

The CBN had been announcing several measures to tackle the volatility in the foreign exchange market, which the speculators usually capitalize on to put pressure on the naira.

Tinubu Reveals Why He Appointed Bosun Tijani As Minister Despite Past Criticism

Admin

President Bola Tinubu has revealed that his decision to appoint Bosun Tijani as the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, despite the latter’s past criticisms, reflects his belief in recognising talent, even in those who have once been vocal critics.

The President made the statement on Saturday night during a special Iftar held in his honour at the Presidential Villa, marking his 73rd birthday.

In a heartfelt address, Tijani, who was appointed as a minister despite his activism and prior criticisms of the President and the National Assembly, shared the personal experience of his appointment.

Tijani recounted that before his appointment, he had never met President Tinubu. However, after his confirmation, the President told him, “I have looked at your records and activism, and I have seen there is something in you. I am giving you the opportunity to represent your country and contribute to making it a better place.”

He continued, “I was expecting a proper scolding because of my records, but the magnanimity of the President is one that I experienced for the very first time in my life. I remember that in that meeting, some people brought out my record again and told Mr President, ‘He said this, he did this. But the President said, ‘Shut it.’”

President Tinubu acknowledged that nominating Tijani was not an easy decision, especially with reservations expressed by his close confidants.

The President explained, “When I picked him, it was tough. My very close confidantes, who had read his comments on social media, came to me and said, ‘No, never.’ I said, ‘Yes, he is talented. Because he criticizes me and pours abuses on the parliament, it does not mean he has nothing to offer. Maybe his frustration at that time will drive him to contribute more to governance. And today, he is doing that, and I am very proud of him.”

Senate President Godswill Akpabio also praised President Tinubu’s ability to forgive his critics, recalling the intense debate that preceded Tijani’s confirmation as a minister.

He said, “When he came to the Senate for screening, senators said, ‘No, no, we can’t have him.’ One senator quoted from the internet where he described all Nigerian senators as ‘morons.’ I had to stop proceedings and ask Bosun, ‘Did you write this?’ And he admitted, ‘Sir, I did because that was how I felt then.’ So I asked him, ‘And you have the audacity to stand before us and expect us to confirm you?’”

Despite this, Akpabio highlighted that Tijani’s eventual confirmation was based on the trust in President Tinubu’s judgment.

He stated, “Mr. President, we confirmed him because we knew you must have seen something special in him. You are never wrong when it comes to your judgment of people. I went into an executive session and told my colleagues, ‘Let us give this young man an opportunity and see what happens. And today, I am happy to say that he is one of the best-performing ministers in the cabinet.”

[NaijaNews]

Tinubu: My wealthy uncle did not have N10,000 cash during Naira scarcity

Admin

Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has recounted his encounter with his close relative who narrated how their wealthy uncle ran short of cash during the naira scarcity in 2023.

Recounting the experience at a special Iftar held in his honour at the Presidential Villa on Saturday night, Tinubu said the odds were against him during the 2023 campaigns, so much that he contemplated withdrawing from the race.

He said, “Those close to me know that the odds were against me. During the campaigns, one of them came to my living room around 3:30 a.m. and said he needed just N50,000 to buy foodstuff for our uncle.

“He told me, ‘The currency is gone because of you. People are jumping over bank counters because there is no cash. Our uncle, a wealthy man, doesn’t even have N10,000 in cash. What are you running for?

“I told him, ‘I am running for President, not for you and our uncle.’ I gave him the N50,000. As he walked out, he turned to me and said, ‘I don’t think you will make it.’ I replied, ‘I will make it,’” Tinubu declared.

He added, “I was amazed. At that moment, I almost dropped the idea of running for President. But thanks to Aminu Masari and all of you who encouraged me.

“When I came to Abuja, Masari told me, ‘I am the Chairman of the North West Group; don’t look back’,” he said.

Further speaking, the President explained reasons why he declared the removal of fuel subsidy during his inauguration.

“On the day of my inauguration, I had to decide on something not originally in my speech, and that was the fuel subsidy removal.

“The hallmark of a great leader is the ability to make the right decision at the right time.

“That was the day I declared that the subsidy was gone. The following day, I was hounded and thoroughly abused in the media. But I stood firm, knowing it was the right thing to do for our nation’s future.” he added.

[DailyTrust]

Ban of Sallah Durbar in best interest of Kano - Emir Sanusi

Admin

The Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, has hailed the ban imposed on Sallah Durbar, noting that the action becomes pertinent for enduring peace and development of the state.

Sanusi noted that the annual traditional heritage of celebrating at the end of Ramadan was not a matter of life and death but a cultural symbol dated back to the 15th century.

The former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor spoke when he hosted eminent Islamic scholars and prominent personalities to Iftar dinner at the palace.

Sanusi, the reinstated 16th first class emir of Kano, described peace as the only backbone of progress and development of any society, and accepted to withdraw all planned activities of the emirate intended for the Durbar.

The Commissioner of Police in Kano, Adamu Bakori, in collaboration with other security agencies, had announced the ban on the proposed Sallah Durbar, citing impending security threats revealed by detectives. Sanusi, the Khalifah of Tijaniyya, has commended the police over the decision.

“I not see the Eid El Fitr Durbar as “a matter of life and death”, Sanusi said, adding that the lives and safety of Kano citizens are more paramount to him.

He therefore appealed to residents and the general public to remain peaceful and law abiding while cooperating with the security agencies to ensure law and order are maintained during and after the Sallah festival.

Kano Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Ibrahim Umar Faruq, applauded the emir for his spirit of love and kindness.

The Governor stated that he experienced the Emir’s kindheartedness when he was a lecturer at ABU in the early 1980s where he guided and supported them as his students.

The SSG expressed gratitude to the Emir for showing concern for the lives of Kano citizens, by his willingness to cancel the Eid El Fitr Durbar celebration.

The Murshid (Chief Imam) of the National Mosque, Professor Shehu Galadanci expressed deep appreciation to Emir Sanusi for exhibiting profound wisdom and knowledge as the leader of the Emirate.

Professor Galadanci, a former National Security Adviser, aligned with the submission of the emir and emphasized that the lives and properties of the people of Kano are more important than the Eid El Fitr Durbar celebration, applauding Sanusi for promoting peaceful coexistence in Kano State.

[TheNation]

Eid-El-Fitr: Barau urges Muslims to sustain Ramadan lessons, promote unity, tolerance

Admin

Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau I. Jibrin, has rejoiced with Muslims in the country on the successful completion of this year’s Ramadan Fast, urging them to carry forward the lessons of the blessed month.

Eid-el-Fitr marks the end of the Ramadan Fast, the fourth pillar of Islam, during which Muslims are devoted to intense worship and prayers to Almighty Allah.

The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), under the leadership of its President-General and Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, on Saturday evening declared Sunday, March 30, as the first day of Shawwal.

Senator Barau, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ismail Mudashir, prayed to Allah SWT to accept supplications, prayers and the good deeds of the Ummah during the blessed Month.

Senator Barau, the First Deputy Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, urged everyone to sustain the lessons of the Holy Month and always reflect on them in their daily activities.

He urged all citizens to continue praying for the country and to lend their full support to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as he addresses the nation’s challenges.

He reiterated the National Assembly’s commitment to enacting necessary legislation to support the President’s efforts.

The Deputy President of the Senate, expressed optimism that the newly established regional development commissions in North West, North Central, South East, South West, and South-South will significantly contribute to developing the country’s regions.

President Tinubu recently assented to bills passed by the National Assembly to establish these five regional commissions (Senator Barau sponsored the bill for the North West Development Commission) to address the country’s developmental challenges.

“I extend my heartfelt congratulations to my fellow Muslims across the country and all Nigerians as we celebrate this year’s Eid-el-Fitr, marking the end of the Ramadan Fast. May Allah SWT accept our prayers, supplications and good deeds during this blessed month.

“In the spirit of the season, let us reach out to the needy and the poor, both during and after the festivities. Let us continue to pray for our country and for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to succeed in positively transforming our country. Regardless of our differences, let us unite and practice tolerance by living peacefully with one another,” he said.

[DailyTrust]

Tinubu: I nearly quit 2023 race amid economic turmoil

Admin

From left: Wife of the Vice President, Hajia Nana Shettima; Vice-President, Kashim Shettima; President Bola Ahmed Tinubu; First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu; and Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, during the Special Iftar and prayers for President Tinubu on his 73rd birthday at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, yesterday

Appreciates Nigerians for birthday well wishes
I’m proud of my association with Tinubu, says Buhari
Babangida, govs, CDS, others laud President @ 73

President Bola Tinubu last night revealed how the economic crisis triggered by the naira redesign policy nearly forced him to quit the 2023 presidential race.

Speaking at a special Iftar at the State House in Abuja, the President recounted how a conversation with a close relative almost made him reconsider his ambition.

The Iftar coincided with his 73rd birthday and he used the opportunity to express appreciation to Nigerians for their outpouring of goodwill and prayers during the birthday.

His predecessor, General Muhammadu Buhari reminisced on his relationship with Tinubu and said he was proud of the deep bond between them.

Buhari ,in a telephone chat with the president to congratulate him on his 73rd birthday was full of praise for him for his contributions to the country.

Ex-military president ,General Ibrahim Babangida said Tinubu’s leadership intervention thus far, has been “very remarkable, bold, resilient and encouraging.”

More congratulatory messages for the president also came yesterday from the Ooni of Ife ,Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi,state governors and other members of the political class as well as the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa who credited Tinubu’s leadership role with what he called the military’s recent successes against terrorism and other security challenges in the country.

Tinubu at yesterday’s Iftar thanked guests for their presence, prayers, and contributions to the nation’s development.

His Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, quoted him as acknowledging the challenges he faced in the presidential race and reaffirming his commitment to advancing Nigeria’s progress.

At the Iftar were First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima and his wife, Nana Shettima, members of the Federal Executive Council, principal officers of the National Assembly, current and former governors, diplomats, business leaders, religious figures, and some of the President’s childhood friends.

Dr. Abdulkadir Sholagberu, Imam of the National Mosque, Abuja, led special prayers seeking divine guidance and continued progress for the President and the nation.

Reflecting on the challenges of the 2023 presidential race,Tinubu spoke of when he contemplated withdrawing from the contest following an encounter with a close relative.

“Those close to me know that the odds were against me. During the campaigns, one of them came to my living room around 3:30 a.m. and said he needed just N50,000 to buy foodstuff for our uncle,” he said.

“He told me, ‘the currency is gone because of you. People are jumping over bank counters because there is no cash. Our uncle, a wealthy man, doesn’t even have N10,000 in cash. What are you running for?’

The President said that his uncle later called to confirm receiving the money but admitted that he had only given the messenger N10,000, keeping the rest.

“I was amazed. At that moment, I almost dropped the idea of running for President. But thanks to Aminu Masari and all of you who encouraged me. When I came to Abuja, Masari told me, ‘I am the Chairman of the North West Group; don’t look back.'”

President Tinubu noted that he assumed office during a time of economic uncertainty and had to take immediate, difficult decisions, including removing fuel subsidy.

“On the day of my inauguration, I had to decide on something not originally in my speech, and that was the fuel subsidy removal,” he said.

Noting that Nigeria had reached a point of no return on the issue, the President said: “The hallmark of a great leader is the ability to make the right decision at the right time. That was the day I declared that the subsidy was gone. The following day, I was hounded and thoroughly abused in the media. But I stood firm, knowing it was the right thing to do for our nation’s future.”

Vice President Shettima lauded the President’s sacrifices, stating that history would remember him as the leader who took on the nation’s most complex challenges.

“Thanks to his boldness, future presidents of Nigeria will not have to wrestle with the same ghosts that haunted past administrations, including fraud-ridden fuel subsidies, an unstable forex market, and the suppression of local government autonomy.

“These were the thorny issues that many before him sidestepped. But Asiwaju did not sidestep history; he came to rewrite it.

“And in rewriting it, Asiwaju has taken the bullets that many before him simply lacked the courage to face. But that is the thing about true leadership: it is not for those who seek comfort. It is for those who understand that the path to national greatness is lined with difficult choices,” he said.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio praised the President’s ability to forgive and his relentless passion for national development.

Akpabio described the President as a leader who thinks outside the box and as the ‘most audacious president’ in the country’s history.

He said that, under Tinubu’s watch, governors are getting more allocation.

“If I were a governor under your administration, I would have been a ‘supernatural governor’ and not an uncommon governor,” he said.

House of Representatives Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, described President Tinubu as a leader who has broken barriers and uplifted future Nigerian politicians.

He noted that the President had taken the backseat to raising leaders for decades.

“Today, he is at the forefront because Nigeria needs him. In 2019, despite not being from his region, he supported me in my most difficult political moment. Nigeria needs leaders who rise above tribal considerations, and he has demonstrated that,” he said.

Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State commended the President’s decisive leadership at a time when Nigeria needed stability.

“Only a leader with deep conviction and love for the country could have taken the bold and yet necessary decisions that averted national collapse and now restoring hope and confidence across the federation,” he said.

Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy Minister Bosun Tijjani shared his personal experience of being appointed by President Tinubu despite his past activism.

“Before my appointment, I had never met Mr. President. But after my confirmation, he told me, ‘I have looked at your records and activism, and I am giving you an opportunity to serve,'” he said.

The minister recounted a recent meeting at the World Bank, where a senior official described President Tinubu as the best reformist leader in Africa today.

Professor Shaffideen Adeniyi Amuwo, a childhood friend of the President, reminisced about their early years and how divine providence led Tinubu to the presidency.

“Our relationship did not just start in Chicago; we played soccer together as children. While I chose the library, my brother chose politics because he loved to speak. Today, Allah has shown His greatness by guiding him to lead Nigeria.

“The city of Chicago, founded by a Black man, has educated the man who now leads the most populous Black nation on earth. I pray that Allah continues to hold his hand and guide him as he works to save our country,” he said.

Buhari: I’m proud of my association with Buhari

Former President Buhari in the telephone chat with Tinubu prayed and wished him long life, good health and success for his administration.

“When we pray for our leaders, we are praying for ourselves and the nation. We owe this to ourselves and the nation,” Buhari’s Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu, quoted him yesterday as telling Tinubu.

Buhari added that his family and himself remain indebted to Tinubu and the other leaders of the party for the invaluable contributions they made toward the formation of All Progressives Congress (APC), catapulting him to the presidency for two terms after failed attempts in the past, and helping to produce another APC administration with the Asiwaju himself at its head.

He added:“ No doubt, the annals of the country will not be complete without bringing into mention, and a recognition of the varied and numerous roles of President Tinubu as an entrepreneur, a party stalwart, a staunch activist, party organizer, party builder, a reliable ally and a serial winner of democratic elections. I am truly proud of my association with the Asiwaju.

“When Nigerians handed the baton of leadership to the APC in 2015, it was a mandate to lay the foundation for a new Nigeria where the poor get opportunities for a better future and I am glad that the vision is not lost. It was a victory of all those who wish the country’s good.”

He also used the opportunity to wish the president, his family, and the nation a successful completion of the Ramadan fast and a happy and joyful Eid el Fitri.

Asiwaju of the universe, happy birthday —-IBB.

General Babangida said a result-driven and utility leader like Tinubu “fits the present challenges especially with the kind of innovations and policy thrust of your administration, so far.’

His message: “There comes a time in the life of a nation when uncommon personality and courageous disposition forms the basis for appreciating the essentials of problem-solving leadership. With your rich background in the struggle for the emancipation of the ordinary Nigerian, coupled with your commitment to deepening democratic values in Nigeria, your history speaks for your persona.

“At a time like this, when your birthday strikes the right chord, it is gratifying to join millions of your admirers, associates, supporters and fellow Nigerians to celebrate you with a pat on the back. You have come to lead Nigeria at a very trying time in our nation’s history, but your leadership intervention thus far, has been very remarkable, bold, resilient and encouraging. Only those who have been there know exactly the grit required to lead Nigeria and Nigerians.

“Mr. President, let me assure you of my support and solidarity always. Even though the challenges facing us as a nation may be daunting, you have shown equal commitment to contend with the realities that stare us in the face. I can easily recollect when our paths crossed in the late eighties when the government I ran was trying to birth democracy.

“You have remained consistent to your ideals, principles and democratic values till date, reason why Nigerians entrusted you with the mandate to lead them at this auspicious moment.

“A result-driven and utility leader like you fits the present challenges especially with the kind of innovations and policy thrust of your administration, so far. You must not be tired or discouraged in providing the desired leadership to move the country forward. You have shown grit, gusto and gravitas in your leadership emanations, and the courage you have exemplified speaks to your capacity to take uncommon decisions.

“Mr. President and the Asiwaju of the Universe, as I fondly call you, congratulations on your 73rd birthday celebrations. On behalf of Aisha, Muha, Aminu and Halima, accept our collective felicitations on this special day. This is happening at the Holy month of Ramadan. It is an indication of Allah’s abiding mercy and love for you. May Allah accept our supplications and grant you good health and more wisdom to help you chart the way forward for our dear country. Congratulations Mr. President. Many happy returns.”

Tinubu’s birthday a testament to his resilience, dedication to Nigeria, says Ooni

The Ooni described the President as a beacon of hope and a visionary leader who has significantly shaped the nation’s socio-political landscape.

“His selfless contributions to the entrenchment of democracy in Nigeria remain an indelible legacy that history will always celebrate,” he said,adding:“From the trenches of democratic struggles to the pinnacle of national leadership, President Tinubu has stood as a champion of progressive governance.

“His relentless fight for justice, equity, and good governance has uplifted many, rekindling hope in the hearts of countless Nigerians.

“Today, as he steers the ship of our great nation, we acknowledge his sacrifices and dedication to ensuring that future generations inherit a Nigeria that thrives in peace, prosperity, and unity.”

Oba Ogunwusi r prayed for God’s continued wisdom, strength, and divine guidance for the President, asking that he be blessed with clarity in leadership and the fortitude to navigate the complexities of governance.

Uzodimma: Tinubu has opened door to new era of growth

Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma said President Tinubu’s leadership has opened the door to Nigeria’s new era of growth and sustainable progress across all sectors.

The Governor said the profound impact made by the president has significantly benefited the people.

He said: “With strong passion and commitment to national development, President Tinubu has opened the door to a new era of growth, ensuring that every sector experiences real and sustainable progress.

“His leadership stands out through bold initiatives, people-centric policies, and a compassionate approach that prioritises the well-being of Nigerians. Whether in revitalising the economy or renewing our infrastructure, Mr. President’s dedication to building a stronger, more prosperous Nigeria is evident.

“As you mark another year of wisdom and experience, I pray that God blesses you with long life, good health, and even greater insight to guide our great nation. May your vision for transforming Nigeria become a lasting reality, and may the years ahead bring even more remarkable achievements.”

Otti hails his sacrifice, resilience in rebuilding Nigeria

Abia State Governor . Alex Otti acknowledged what he called Tinubu’s dedication to the progress and unity of the country.

Otti in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Ukoha Njoku Ukoha, also commended the resilience of President Tinubu in building a united and strong nation.

He prayed that God might continue to grant him the strength, wisdom and good health to steer the ship of our Nation to greater heights.

Tinubu ‘s leadership key to military gains against adversaries, says CDS

Chief of Defence Staff Musa said the military’s successes against the adversaries of the country could not have been possible without President Tinubu’s “immense guidance and purposeful leadership.”

The CDS, in a statement said the President’s relentless efforts to provide the needed funds, incentives, and equipment to execute the fight against the enemies of the country had gone a long way in boosting the morale of the troops.

He said: “Your leadership has impacted positively to the successes being achieved by the Armed Forces of Nigeria. We remain loyal and committed to your ideals and aspirations for a safer nation where citizens and their businesses will strive.

“The successes achieved so far in the fight against insurgency, terrorism, economic sabotage, and other criminalities could not have been achieved without your immense guidance and purposeful leadership.

“As you celebrate, we are confident that the Almighty God will guide, protect, and provide you with sound health and additional wisdom to steer the ship. We seize this opportunity to continue to pledge our unending resolve to submit to our constitutional responsibilities and ensure a safer and peaceful nation.

“The present increase in troops morale is attributed to your relentless efforts to provide the needed funds, incentives, and equipment to execute the fight against the enemies of Nigeria.”

Benue will ever be grateful to him,says Gov. Alia

Benue State Governor Gov. Hyacinth Alia said President Tinubu has shown his state considerable love, given the numerous appointments, infrastructural development projects, and other Federal Government interventions in the state.

The governor appreciated the President for always putting Benue at the front burner of his “Renewed Hope Agenda”.

He said the government and people of the state would be forever grateful and proud of him and his administration.

Alia said that the future of the country looked great under the leadership of the President.

Soludo hails Tinubu’s leadership on 73rd birthday

In Awka,Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Soludo said the President’s commitment to democratic governance continued to inspire renewed hope for a better Nigeria.

He descried the birthday as another moment to celebrate a life dedicated to service, vision, and the pursuit of national unity and progress.

“President Tinubu’s leadership is anchored in deep political experience, strategic thinking, patriotism, and a commitment to democracy. This continues to inspire hope for a better Nigeria,” Soludo said and appreciated his “ large-heartedness and support for Anambra’s developmental aspirations.’

He added:“His inclusive approach to governance and willingness to partner with subnational entities for national progress reflect his belief in a Nigeria that works for all.”

He’s guiding Nigeria toward growth, prosperity -Otu

Cross River State Governor Bassey Out said Tinubu’s leadership has been “pivotal in guiding our country toward growth and prosperity.”

The Governor also emphasized the importance of unity and cooperation among all states in Nigeria, stating that working together is essential for the progress and well-being of the nation.

The governor pledged the continued support of the people of the state to the president to enable his administration succeed with his Renewed Hope Agenda.

He continues to inspire hope, progress – Gov. Ododo

Kogi State Governor Ahmed Ododo described President Tinubu as a statesman whose leadership and dedication to national development continue to inspire hope and progress across Nigeria.

The governor said that Tinubu’s reforms were strengthening the national unity, stabilising the economy and advancing the nation’s democratic values.

“On behalf of the government and people of Kogi State, I celebrate Mr President on this special day.

“Your resilience, visionary leadership, and patriotism have laid a strong foundation for Nigeria’s growth.

“We deeply appreciate your tireless efforts in repositioning our country for sustainable development,” he stated.

He reaffirmed his support for President Tinubu’s administration and prayed for continued wisdom, strength, and good health for the President as he leads Nigeria toward greater prosperity, sustainable development, peace and stability.

He’s courageous reformer, says Bamidele

Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele called the president a courageous reformer, a fearless patriot and an incurable optimist in the glorious future of Nigeria.

“President is no doubt a courageous reformer, fearless patriot and an incurable optimist, who never bothers about reelection, but about the next generation. Since he assumed office 22 months ago, he has focused on implementing key reforms that are now restoring stability to and confidence in the economy,” he said..

“In the last 22 months alone, President Tinubu signed the Student Loans Bill that has benefited no fewer than 90,000 students and raised the national minimum wage from ₦30,000 to ₦70,000. Under his leadership, also, our GDP has recorded significant growth and inflation now down trajectory.

“Statutory transfers to state and local governments have significantly risen, availing them more resources to fund projects and programmes at the sub-national level.

“The increase has no doubt prevented the country’s descent into a fiscal crisis, possibly another economic meltdown.

“Asiwaju’s courage to undertake strategic infrastructure projects is historic and legendary.

“This is evident in the construction of Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and Sokoto-Badagry Superhighway, among others. These projects are indeed economic routes that connect several states together.” Bamidele observed.

Bamidele further commended the president for promoting such programmes as Nigerian Education Loan Fund, Health Sector Renewal Initiative and Renewed Hope Homes purely in the interest of Nigerians across all strata.

His unwavering commitment to repositioning Nigeria commendable – Nwoko

In his own goodwill message,Senator Ned Nwoko (Delta North ) said that the nation recognised the weight of the task before the president and his genuine efforts to steer the country towardgrowth and stability.

According to him, this special day offers yet another moment to acknowledge Tinubu’s unwavering dedication to the service of the country and his resilience in the face of the enormous responsibility of leadership.

“Mr President, we recognise the weight of the task before you and the genuine efforts you are making to steer the nation towards growth and stability.

“As you celebrate another year today, we acknowledge your unwavering commitment to repositioning Nigeria and advancing the vision of the Renewed Hope Agenda.

“It is our earnest hope that the year ahead brings you renewed strength, wisdom, and the collective support needed to fulfill the aspirations of Nigerians,” he said.

Arewa Think Tank holds prayer session for President

The Arewa Think Tank (ATT) yesterday organized a prayer session in Kaduna to mark the 73rd birthday celebration of President Tinubu.

Two Islamic Clerics, Sheikh Yahaya Musa and Abdulkareem Abumujahidah led the prayer session.

According to the Clerics, “there is nothing bad praying for our leaders. God even says that we should continue to pray for our leaders so that they can have the strength and good health to lead us better. So this prayer for the President and Nigeria as a country is in order”.

They urged Nigerians not to cease from praying at all times as part of encouraging them to ensure speedy development for the country.

In his remarks, the Convener of Arewa Think Tank, Muhammad Alhaji Yakubu said the gathering was solely for prayer session in commemoration of the 73rd birthday celebration of the President.

And fielding questions from journalists shortly after the occasion, he expressed optimism that President Tinubu’s chances for a second term were bright in view of the various reforms he has implemented, “which are now yielding results. So his coming back to office for the second tenure is very much assured by the grace of God”.

“We must not forget the fact that the respective holy books of the two major religions; Islam and Christianity call on the people to always pray for their leaders. So what we are doing here today is in line with one of the religious tenets. We are not doing anything political here today. Remember that last year we organised same event for Mr. President’s 72nd birthday celebration. So this is not the first we are organising this prayer session.

The former governor of Kaduna State, Mukhtar Ramalan Yero and the Director General of the Michael Imoudu National Institute for Labour Studies, Comrade Issa Aremu graced the occasion. Both of them commended the organisers of the prayer session.

[TheNation]

‘Your Leadership Has Been Very Remarkable’ — IBB Tells Tinubu At 73

AFOLABI

Former military head of state Ibrahim Babangida has congratulated President Bola Tinubu on his 73rd birthday.

Babangida, in a personal statement on Saturday, praised Tinubu as a “remarkable, bold, and resilient” leader who has shown courage during the country’s challenging times.

He also praised Tinubu’s political journey, recalling their early interactions during the late 1980s when the military regime was working towards democratic governance.

According to IBB, Tinubu has remained consistent with his ideals, principles, and democratic values over the decades.

He wrote, “You have come to lead Nigeria at a very trying time in our nation’s history, but your leadership intervention thus far has been very remarkable, bold, resilient, and encouraging. Only those who have been there know exactly the grit required to lead Nigeria and Nigerians.

“You have remained consistent to your ideals, principles, and democratic values to date, which is why Nigerians entrusted you with the mandate to lead them at this auspicious moment. A result-driven and utility leader like you fits the present challenges, especially with the kind of innovations and policy thrust of your administration so far.

“You must not be tired or discouraged in providing the desired leadership to move the country forward. You have shown grit, gusto, and gravitas in your leadership emanations, and the courage you have exemplified speaks to your capacity to take uncommon decisions.

“Mr. President and the Asiwaju of the Universe, as I fondly call you, congratulations on your 73rd birthday celebrations. On behalf of Aisha, Muha, Aminu, and Halima, we accept our collective felicitations on this special day. This is happening in the holy month of Ramadan. It is an indication of Allah’s abiding mercy and love for you. May Allah accept our supplications and grant you good health and more wisdom to help you chart the way forward for our dear country. Congratulations, Mr. President. Many happy returns.”

Tinubu had recently commended IBB for publicly acknowledging that the late M.K.O. Abiola won the June 12, 1993, presidential election that was nullified by him as military president.

IBB acknowledged Abiola’s victory for the first time during the launch of his autobiography, A Journey in Service, and a fundraising event for the IBB Presidential Library Project in Abuja.

Tinubu, who attended the event, lauded Babangida’s decision to set the historical record straight after three decades.

He described the former military president’s admission as an important step in acknowledging Nigeria’s democratic history.

“I am glad about the revelation of June 12. My General, we will not forget to pray for you,” Tinubu stated.

Babangida, in his remarks at the event, admitted that annulling the June 12 election was the most difficult decision of his career.

He expressed regret over the development but maintained that all actions taken at the time were in the ultimate interest of the nation.

Southwest SDP Leaders Clarify El-Rufai’s Intention To Get Presidential Ticket In 2027

AFOLABI

The leadership of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in the South West has clarified that it is unaware that the Former Governor of Kaduna State, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, joined the party in the bid to get the presidential ticket for the 2027 general election.

Naija News reports that the zonal leader of the party, Mulikat Adeola Akande, clarified on Saturday during the ifta organised for all party members in the 11 local government councils within Ibadan city.

Adeola said that nobody should be discouraged from joining the party because politics is a game of numbers, and defectors must be ready to play by the rules of the party.

She assured members of the party that tested and trusted candidates would be presented for elective positions in Oyo State ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Hon. Adeola, who represented Ogbomoso North/South and Oriire Federal Constituency between 2007 and 2015 on the platform of the PDP, explained that she called it quits with the party when she was betrayed.

She said, “Politics is a game of number and anybody who wants to come into SDP is welcome as long as they are ready to play by the rules of the party and not with the mind of taking the party from those who are there before.

“As the leader of the SDP in the South West, I’m not aware that the intention of the former Governor to join the party is to get the party’s presidential ticket.

“I ran for Senate and we worked for the present governor of the State, Governor Seyi Makinde. While we were working for him, he was working against me, it was something I have never seen before, it was a total betrayal.”

Flanked by Michael Ogunlade Oyo State Chairman of the party and Akintola Ezekiel, Director of National Mobilisation and Strategy of the Presidential Candidate of the Action Alliance in the 2023 general elections, Major Hamza Al-Mustapha (retd) encouraged members of the party to get registered in their various wards and collect their voter’s cards.

She said, “You don’t just sit down and say you want to win election and then go and bring out anybody. We must have the right candidates, somebody tested and trusted,who has integrity that when people hears his name they can rely on him. Someone who is dependable and reliable; who will work for the people and not for himself. Those are the qualities we are looking for.”

NJC rejects bill to sanction corrupt judges

Admin

The National Judicial Council has raised concerns about a proposal by the House of Representatives to empower the Nigerian Bar Association to sanction and remove corrupt judges.

On March 25, 2025, the House of Representatives passed a bill seeking to amend the 1999 Constitution by introducing provisions for the removal of corrupt judges from the judiciary.

The bill proposes that the NBA should receive petitions against such judicial officers, consider the defense of the petitioned officer, and take further steps on the matter.

Reacting to the bill, the Deputy Director of Information of the NJC, Kemi Ogedengbe, questioned the feasibility and legality of such a move, citing constitutional constraints and procedural requirements.

In an interview with Sunday PUNCH, Ogedengbe said the Constitution placed the responsibility of disciplining judges squarely in the hands of the NJC.

She emphasised that sanctioning a judge is a process governed by specific procedures, including presenting evidence against accused judges.

“The constitutional requirements place the discipline of judges in the hands of the NJC, and it doesn’t just come with the NJC—it has procedures that must be followed. If a judge is deemed to be corrupt, you can’t just put up a statement that a judge is corrupt. It must be backed up with evidence.”

“Either the judge is caught in the act or you have evidence against the judge. Once it happens that way, the dictates of the Constitution will now be followed to deal with such a corrupt judge. That’s what the Constitution says,” she said.

Ogedengbe further questioned the practicality of the NBA taking on such responsibilities, and the potential for abuse.

She said, “The question is, who are those corrupting the judges? A crime does not occur in isolation; there are always accessories. Who are these accessories? Are they members of the public, lawyers, or medical doctors? Or are they lawyers themselves?”

The council also emphasised that public hearings and stakeholder input would play a critical role in determining the viability of the proposed amendment.

“The House of Representatives’ bill will not just end there; it will pass through the Senate and the 36 state Houses of Assembly. They are going to ratify it; there will be public hearings on it. So, this is just the tip of the iceberg.

“Whether it will be able to curb corruption is what I don’t know because one person cannot perpetuate corrupt practices. There must be accessories. So, who are those accessories? Or will a judge just sit down, and they will charge him for corruption?”

“It is those accessories that we have to identify. From there, we will now know if the NBA taking over sanctioning judges will be abused or not.”

“This is just the beginning of the conversation. Whether this bill can effectively curb corruption remains to be seen. For now, we must adhere to the Constitution, which already provides a framework for disciplining judicial officers through due process.

“There is no constitutional amendment that does not involve public hearings. Every stakeholder will come to say if they support it or not. That is when we will know if this type of amendment will succeed or not. A law is not a good law until it is made perfect,” she said.

[Punch]

Rivers bombings, Assembly burning: Confusion as Fubara, ex-HOS trade claims

AFOLABI

Former official, wife disagree over alleged abduction

Suspended governor of Rivers State, Siminalyi Fubara, yesterday, engaged in a war of words with the immediate past Head of Service, HOS, Dr. George Nweke, over the bombing of pipelines in the state and burning of the House of Assembly Complex.

The development, which created confusion over the true story of the incidents that happened in the state, added another twist to the complex political crisis in Rivers.

In 2023, in the early stages of the current impasse, suspected political thugs burnt down the chambers of the Rivers State House of Assembly.

The arsonists had carried out the act at about 9:45pm, causing uneasy calm around the assembly complex.

On March 18, 2025, an explosion also rocked a section of the Trans Niger Pipeline in Bodo Community in Gonna Local Government Area of Rivers State, heightening the already tense political situation in the state. The incident occurred near the Bodo-Bonny Road under construction. Unlike in the past when militant groups claimed responsibility for such incidents, none took ownership of the two.

Terrorism

A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja had sent five Port Harcourt-based men to Kuje Prison for burning down the complex.

The men were arraigned by the Federal Government on terrorism charges.

However, the issues have taken another dimension with the claim by Nweke, who resigned a few days ago as HOS that Fubara ordered both incidents.

He alleged that the suspended governor sponsored the recent explosions that occurred in some oil facilities in the state.

Nweke also alleged that Fubara also masterminded the burning of the Rivers State House of Assembly complex to stop his impeachment by the house.

Nweke, who said this in Abuja, appreciated Fubara for appointing him to serve in his administration, saying his aim in addressing the press was to put the record straight.

He said: “With loads of misinformation on print and electronic media, I have chosen to put the record straight, I was not sacked neither was I pressured to resign, I did it willingly from the depth of my heart, however, as an insider and a key player in this administration by my position, who worked closely with Siminilayi Fubara, it will be unfair for me to keep silent or not to address some key factors that have affected or will affect our state if we continue on this trajectory.

“I want to use this medium to thank Mr. President for a swift intervention in Rivers State crisis, especially on the state of emergency that was declared and assented to by the National Assembly.

Suspended

“You will recall that when the governor was suspended, as the Head of Service I was the next in command so I am not speaking from outside. I am speaking as an insider. If not for the intervention of Mr. President, Nigeria would have faced the worst economic sabotage and Rivers State would have been in flames.”

Nweke alleged that Fubara had in the wake of the crisis in the state, directed his suspended Chief of Staff, Edison Ehie, to burn down the Assembly complex to avert his seeming impeachment.

He also said the governor had also made some advancement to bring down the residential quarters of the state lawmakers, adding that the governor wasted state funds to massage his ego.

Nweke said: “It all started with the Rivers State House of Assembly where Governor Siminilayi Fubara directed his Chief of Staff (Edison Ehie) to burn down the assembly to avert his impeachment. Edison was in Government House with two other boys, including the former Chairman of Obio/Akpor LGA, and one Chijioke. I was there with them when a bag of money was handed over to Edison for the operation. I did not know the amount inside.

“I want to tell Rivers people today that the House of Assembly complex in Moscow Road was brought down by Edison Ehie under the instructions of Governor Siminilayi Fubara, I challenge him to an open confrontation and I will throw more light on it. A day after that incident, I almost resigned but I was very scared because I knew the power of a sitting governor and he knew that I was aware of the whole plan and that I was discomforted with the unconscionable act and deliberate posture of innocence and mien of a sheep.

Residential quarters

“Another attempt was also made to destroy the residential quarters of the House of Assembly members if not for the press conference that was made by Rivers youths, Rivers elders and National Assembly members, that would have been another barbaric demolition in Rivers State.

“I came to realize that they wanted to demolish that second building because, after some weeks, he told me that if he had known early he would have gone to pull down their hall before visiting the residential quarters of the assembly and that he didn’t know that they had such a beautiful hall where they are using now for their sitting, I was shocked and I asked myself how could a man who wants to lead his people be destroying his state assets and wasting public funds on a needless ego fight.

“While I thank Mr. President for the state of emergency that was declared in Rivers State, I will plead with him not to give up on Rivers State affairs because a lot is going on there with Governor Fubara. One of the factors that got me removed was when Governor Fubara told me they would use the Ijaw to decide who would become the next President of Nigeria and I asked him how will that work. Is it by votes or by what means?

“He told me that he is the chief security officer of Rivers State and his brother is in charge of Bayelsa State and all the pipelines are under their care that at the appropriate time, they will tell the boys what to do and the fund was not an issue. That was why when he made that statement in his public function that “I will tell the boys what to do at the appropriate time” I knew something was up and perhaps the time was near.

Nweke said: “The plan was to start from non-Ijaw speaking areas to destroy oil facilities to remove attention from the Ijaw and make it have a statewide look. The Ogoni, Oyibo, Ahoda areas were to be bombed first before the Ijaw zones. This would have brought down the government of President Tinubu and usher in a new President from the coalition of political parties with a Vice President from the Ijaw.’’

Nweke is lying, he is compromised —Fubara

Meanwhile, Fubara has dismissed Nweke’s claims, stating that he,Nweke, has been compromised to lie against him.

Fubara disclosed this in a statement he signed in Port Harcourt and urged the public to disregard him.

He said: “Ordinarily, I would not have responded to his claims, but to correct the erroneous impression such allegations may create in the minds of the people, and the disaffection it is bound to cause in the state and the country.

“First, on the claim that he was aware of my discussions and plans to support Bala Mohammed’s alleged 2027 presidential bid, it is laughable that Dr Nwaeke would be part of any high-level political meeting as Head of Service, much more sitting in my alleged night meetings with Bala Mohammed and militants as he claimed. Howbeit, none of such meetings were ever held.

“The truth is that the whole world knew when the Bauchi State Governor, as Chairman of Peoples Democratic Party Governors Forum visited the state, and there was nothing secret about the visits.

“It is also ludicrous for Dr. Nwaeke to claim that he was aware of my meetings to encourage attacks on oil pipelines and other national assets in the state, as there was no time I held any meeting with militants or any criminal group to destabilise the state. It is on record that I have been at the forefront of preaching peace in the state even in the face of obvious provocations.

“The truth is that Dr. Nwaeke has been compromised, and whatever he is saying is only aimed at fulfilling his promise to those who may have paid or coerced him to lie against me.

“I call on all well-meaning Nigerians and the good people of Rivers State to disregard everything said by Dr. Nwaeke as they are mere desperate attempts to discredit me and my administration, and undermine the peace process by Mr. President.”

He was abducted, not the husband I know —Nweke’s wife

Nonetheless, the matter has become more dramatic as Florence Nweke, wife of the former HOS, said her husband was abducted.

She raised concerns about her husband’s safety and whereabouts following his sudden public appearance in Anuja.

Florence revealed that her husband had informed her of his safe arrival in Abuja after travelling from Rivers State. However, she was later shocked to see him participating in an interview where he made allegations against the governor.

According to her, the man in the interview did not seem to be the husband she knew, sparking fears that he might be acting under duress.

“I have tried reaching him several times, but his lines have been unreachable. I don’t know where he is or if he is safe. My husband is in trouble,” she cried out.

More...

We won’t succumb: Anger trails fresh emergency rule declaration threat

Admin

•Opposition leaders in 11 states hit back at AGF Fagbemi
•President after govs who may oppose him in 2027—Amaechi

Following the threat by the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, AGF, Mr. Lateef Fagbemi, that President Bola Tinubu would declare a state of emergency in any state should the need arise, opposition parties’ leaders across states controlled by them and residents have vowed to resist any such action.

They noted that the remark by the AGF should be taken as a threat to democracy, adding that it portrays Nigeria as a country under dictatorship.

The AGF had warned that the Federal Government would not hesitate to mete out sanctions, including a declaration of a state of emergency, in any state that threatens the economic interest of the country.
Fagbemi spoke in the defence of the declaration of emergency rule in Rivers State which saw Tinubu suspending Governor Sim Fubara, his deputy and the state House of Assembly.

The action of the President drew widespread condemnation across the Nigeria as it is widely believed that whereas Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution provides for emergency rule declaration under certain circumstances, there is no such provision in the document for the suspension of a state governor, the deputy, the House of Assembly or any other democratic structure.

Meanwhile, the Sole Administrator appointed for Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd), took a cue from Tinubu when, last Wednesday, he dissolved all democratic structures in the state.

Fagbemi had said: “So, it is Rivers State’s turn today. It can be anybody’s turn tomorrow.

“Let the signal be clear for those who want to foment trouble, who want to make the practice of democracy and enjoyment of dividends of democracy a mirage to think twice.

“If it happens again, I will encourage Mr President to do the same, maybe this time with even greater vigour and vitality.

“So, the question of separating or treating or giving preferential treatment to anybody does not arise.
“You give preferential treatment to anybody, you are giving preferential treatment to illegality. Just call a spade a spade.”

But opposition leaders drawn from the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, New Nigerian Peoples Party, NNPP, Labour Party, All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA, and residents of states where opposition parties rule, said Nigerians won’t succumb to the antics of the ruling party.

Whereas the government at the federal level is controlled by the All Progressives Congress (APC), of Nigeria’s 36 states, 11 are governed by the opposition.

They include Delta, Bayelsa, Akwa Ibom, Anambra, Abia, Enugu, Adamawa, Zamafara, Osun, Kano and Taraba.

Instill fear

Speaking on the matter, Legal Adviser of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Akwa State, Ekemini Uba, said the AGF was instilling fear in opposition parties.

Uba, who admitted that a state of emergency is declared in a state to restore peace and stability, however, advised that it should not be used as a political tool against the opposition.

His words: “The procedure to declare a state of emergency in any state is spelt out in the Constitution clearly.

“It is about restoring peace and stability. Let them not use it as a political tool against the opposition parties.

“So when they are saying they will declare a state of emergency in any state that threatens, they are merely trying to instill fear in the opposition.

“It is a way of stifling the voice of PDP and a few other opposition parties that have been speaking out lately and criticizing their government’s actions.”

Another stakeholder of the PDP in the state, who pleaded anonymity on the issue, angrily said: “Why have they not declared a state of emergency in Borno, Benue?”

Consequences

On his part, Chairman of the NNPP in Kano State, Hashimu Dungurawa, and a political analyst, Prof. Kamilu Sani Fagge, described the development as a dangerous trend.

Dungurawa said: “It is quite unfortunate to have this drastic decision taken by Mr. President because democracy is full of noises, agree and disagree.

“Mr. President could have called the aggrieved parties, Wike and Fubara, discuss and advise them wisely, but because of selfish interest and partisan politics, he decided to take action in favour of his party and abandon the opposition.

“Why didn’t he declare emergency rule in Katsina and Sokoto where insecurity is out of hand? So many people have lost their lives and properties?

“This is unfortunate and not helpful to democracy. And I think, he has no advisers who are putting him through. “Honestly, the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers amounts to trying to create havoc in democracy because nobody is happy.

“You need to see responses from legal practitioners, politicians, and the downtrodden.

Unilaterally

“And he unilaterally took the decision.

“He should have allowed stakeholders to deliberate and take a stand before declaring a state of emergency.
“He just operates like a one-man business. This is what he did when he was sworn-in as the President when he just removed fuel subsidy, now bringing new taxes and declaring a state of emergency in an opposition state. It is quite unfortunate, and he should think wisely”.

Lending his voice, Fagge said: “Such a comment by the AGF is troubling. “Because it shows that our leaders are trying to become dictatorial.

“I think there is a need for caution given that what happened in Rivers has generated a lot of controversies.

“By making such a statement, I think it shows that we are in for trouble, it shows that, at any slightest mistake, the President might declare a state of emergency in any state. This is a dangerous trend.

“In fact, it is highly undemocratic. It seems our leaders have not learned a lesson from what happened in the past. “Such action was what caused the crisis in Western Region and which culminated in the collapse of the First Republic.

“Similarly, such a crisis is what contributed to the failure of the Second Republic.

“It also contributed to the inability of the Third Republic to stand.

“I think this is a dangerous trend and highly dictatorial.”

‘Executive recklessness’

The leadership of PDP in Taraba State, on its part, told Sunday Vanguard that what the AGF said amounted to executive recklessness and an attempt to stifle opposition.

The party’s spokesperson, Andeta’rang Irammae, accused the Federal Government of undermining democracy, warning that the AGF’s remarks suggested that Nigeria no longer runs a democracy but a dictatorship.

He said: “What the AGF said implies that Nigeria no longer runs a democracy and what we have now is dictatorship.

“Our democracy is being targeted, and their intention is to totally capture it.

“The saddest reality is that Mr. President was one of those who fought for this democracy, but now, instead of strengthening it, he is destroying it.

“The AGF is supposed to be a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), not someone who undermines Nigeria’s Constitution.”

Dictatorship

A political analyst, Istifanus Mashi, also spoke, describing the AGF’s statement as dangerous and warning that such threats could lead Nigeria toward what he called a “democratic dictatorship.”

He said: “The President does not have the unilateral power to suspend an elected governor, as Nigeria’s federal system grants constitutional autonomy to states.

“Any such action must follow due legal procedures rather than executive overreach.”

Another critic, Godwin Peter, condemned the AGF’s remarks, calling them “reprehensible, coercive, and a serious threat to constitutional democracy.”

He argued that the statement was made at a time when the state of emergency declared in Rivers State is already facing widespread opposition, raising concerns that such measures may be politically motivated.

His words: “The central government is now using the proclamation of emergency rule in opposition states as an instrument of coercion, possibly to foist a one-party state, which should be condemned by all.”
He called on opposition parties, civil society organizations, the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), traditional rulers, and religious leaders to take action.

‘Dangerous signal’

In Abia State, a former Senate President, Senator Adolphus Wabara, cautioned the AGF against using the threat of state of emergency to intimidate opposition states.

Wabara, who is also the Chairman, Board of Trustees, BoT, of the PDP, said the comment “is a dangerous signal to Nigeria’s democracy”.

He warned the APC-led Federal Government of taking anti-democratic steps capable of putting Nigeria “in the reverse gear.”

Wabara accused the APC of using intimidation and harassment to suppress the opposition in Nigeria and, therefore, urged Nigerians not to succumb to the antics of the ruling party, insisting that the opposition voice is an essential ingredient of democracy.

International community

He said: “Such a remark coming from a personality like the AGF is very disappointing, and portrays Nigeria as a country under dictatorship.

“This is not only undemocratic but a bad image for Nigeria before the international community.”
On his part, Abia State Secretary of Labour Party, LP, Rev. Andrew Ohiagba, cautioned the AGF against frightening opposition states with emergency rule.

He faulted President Tinubu on emergency rule in Rivers State, insisting that the process violated Nigeria’s Constitution.

The LP scribe, who warned against actions that could derail Nigeria’s fledgling democracy, added that the opposition should not be muzzled or intimidated into silence with emergency rule.

Arbitrariness

In Anambra State, Igboezue Internal Association Nigeria and the Diaspora, IIAND, condemned the statement by the AGF.

Reacting to the statement through its National President Worldwide, Chief Pius Okoye, Igboezue regretted that such a statement could come from a senior and notable lawyer like Fagbemi, who many Nigerians believe knows the law and should be guiding the President not to act contrary to the law.

The pro-Igbo group stated that using what the President has done in Rivers State to threaten other states and governors in the country is wrong and amounts to silencing the opposition. Igboezue also believes that if the President had called former Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike (now FCT Minister and apparently using majority of the state lawmakers to try to impeach Fubara) to order when the problem started, the situation in the state could not have degenerated to the level of him declaring a state of emergency in the state, for reasons best known by him.

According to Igboezue, “emotions are getting high in Nigeria, and Ndigbo must be very circumspect this time concerning the political quagmire in Rivers State that led to the declaration of state of emergency in that state.”

The group went on: “It is regrettable and unfortunate that Nigeria and its leaders seem to be with neither soul nor spirit, but with a body clothed in evil and injustice, the country seems to be an artificial construction, and, therefore, Ndigbo must tread with caution and remember 1966.

“Ndigbo should remember that the crisis in which many Igbo were slaughtered during the Nigeria-Biafra war (which) started in Yorubaland between Chief Obafemi Awolowo and Ladoke Akintola, then-Premier of Western Region, a crisis that was nicknamed ‘Wild Wild West’ before the ‘Operation Wetie’ started, followed by the constitutional crisis.”

‘Shameful’

Commenting on the issue, Chairman of Labour Party in Rivers State, Hilda Dokubo, described the situation as shameful.

Dokubo said: “State of emergency because for two years we have had peace! State of emergency because you want to capture the economic soul of Rivers State.”

She compared Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State to George Orwell’s novel Animal Farm. The 55-year-old urged every citizen of the state unfamiliar with the book to take the time to read it.

“Animal Farm by George Orwell should be given to every Rivers State citizen as palliative. Meanwhile, someone tells Mr. Jones to rein in his pigs”, she noted.

Imposition

A chieftain of the PDP in Bayelsa State, Mr. Igenewari Dom, said Nigerians would resist imposition of state of emergency in any other state.

Dom said: ‘’They have used Rivers as a pilot scheme. Nigerians are reacting but not resisting. Next time, we will mobilize and resist it.

“The AGF made a reckless statement because Nigerians accept their misrule”, he said.
“What they failed to realize is that they won’t be in power forever. It’s just four years because I know nobody will re-elect Tinubu and his group.

“Nigerians are already united against his dictatorial rule. This is the time for the opposition to unite and send them packing.

“We have had enough, please”.

In the same vein, a political activist in Delta State, Mr. Blessing Adima, said: “I am surprised. Is it because he (Fagbemi) is the Minister of Justice? “He’s not talking as Attorney General. He is talking as a Minister of Justice, as a man under President Tinubu, who will support anything unconstitutional the President does.

“There is nowhere in the Nigerian Constitution that empowers the President to suspend a state governor. “There is no ambiguity in any Section of the Constitution that allows the President to suspend.

“A governor can be removed from office, either through impeachment by the State Assembly, not even the National Assembly, or through incapacitation or through death or through resignation.

“Here, in Section 305, there is no where it states that the President can suspend a governor; this is not democracy at all. “These people have just come to kill our constitutional democracy.

“Did Governor Fubara invite Tinubu and said, ‘oh, the situation in the Rivers state is overwhelming?’ It is only on that note that you will say, ‘okay, Mr. Governor, step aside, let me take this step.’

Judiciary

“Okay, let us look at the manner in which the state of emergency was declared; the President puts the cart before the horse.

“You declared state of emergency before you now transmitted the proclamation to the National Assembly. “That again, is unconstitutional; both the executive and National Assembly acted recklessly.

“So we are waiting for what the judiciary will tell us about this act, this unconstitutional act of Mr. President.

“The President is supposed to consider the Constitution and consider the sovereignty of this country before he exercises his powers.

“I think the President just did his overreach and for a Minister for Justice to support this overreach, then they are now telling us that we have lost the country; but we are still waiting for what the judiciary has to say about this action that the President took.”

Fears in states

Expressing his fears, Chairman of PDP in Rivers State, Nname Ewor, described what happened in the state as state capture.

He said the development has led to tension in states governed by the opposition.

Ewor said: “What they have done in Rivers State has given the impetus to do it in any other state. Having done it in Rivers State and succeeded without following the laid down principle, they are likely to do it in another state.

“The governors, especially governors of the opposition should be wary of the system as we speak.

“The declaration of the state of emergency in Rivers State is not in line with the constitution. Section 305 of the constitution provides the conditions that will give rise to emergency declaration. None of the conditions stated there happened in Rivers.

“All the situations that would warrant emergency rule never happened in Rivers State, but they went ahead to do that, I call it political exigencies.

“They declared a state of emergency and sent a Sole Administrator. What is he doing? He is just destroying the political structures of the governor. He removed the Secretary to the State Government, SSG, removed the Chief of Staff, political appointees and commissioners.

State capture

“They know that the declaration was not constitutional. But having done it in Rivers State and succeeded, the likelihood that they will do it in any other opposition party state is there.

“The AGF is only informing us of what they will do. So we should be wary and rise to the occasion by resisting them.

“What has happened in Rivers State is state capture. There is no emergency. We have states that need emergency in Nigeria. As we speak, in Borno, last week, soldiers were killed. Many LGAs are under siege. The North-West is under the control of bandits, Boko Haram. In Benue, herdsmen have done havoc. But Rivers State has been calm.

“Even the pipeline they claim, since Fubara resumed in 2023, no single pipeline was attacked. What they have done is to take over the structure of governance in the state and hand it over to the Minister of Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike. They have dismantled all the structures Fubara put in place.”

Also, a lawyer, Chief Festus Ogwuche, said the position taken by the AGF brings to question his knowledge of the nation’s constitution as it concerns human rights abuse.

Ogwuche said the statement by the AGF would only create tension in states, adding that emergency rule as declared by President Tinubu runs contrary to democratic principles.

Meanwhile, a former governor of Rivers State, Rotimi Amaechi, has described President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of emergency rule in Rivers State as a ploy to intimidate governors to support his re-election bid.

Amaechi, who spoke in an interview with DW Africa, said the President’s move has sown fear in governors “that if you are not careful, the president will remove you.”.

He added that Fubara has “no security responsibility” over the Rivers crisis, adding that the suspended governor is being punished for an offence he “did not commit.”

Power grab

His words:”It is between the President and the FCT Minister. The President wants power grab. They want to frighten governors who may not support them in 2027. There is a rumour everywhere that if you are not careful, the President will remove you.

“If the President said it is because of insecurity because they blew the pipeline, what about the part of the country where there is insecurity? Is the President saying they should impose an emergency rule on him too? They can’t because he is a democratically elected President. Nobody can impose an emergency rule on him because there is serious insecurity in the North-East, North-West, even in South-East and South-West.

“Rivers governor has no security responsibility. It rests squarely on the President. So why punish a man who did not commit an offence?”

Amaechi called on Rivers residents to “resist the president”. He said the resistance should be done “by democratically protesting against the President.”

[Vanguard]

VP slot: Wike’s character deficiency reason I chose Okowa in 2023 – Atiku

AFOLABI

The Presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 elections, Atiku Abubakar, has given further insights into why he picked former Delta State Governor, Ifeanyi Okowa, over then Rivers State Governor; and now Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, as running mate in 2023.

In a statement signed by his Media Office, in Abuja, on Saturday, titled: “Learning Without Character Is Equal To Zero,” the Atiku Media Office said, it was responding to “yet another emotional outburst” disguised as a press statement from Wike’s Media aide, Lere Olayinka.

The Atiku Media Office said, “While we understand that bitterness often finds expression in misplaced aggression, we must remind Mr. Wike and his team that a bitter heart isn’t capable of charity, nor does it inspire unity, healing, or truth.

“Once again, facts have been twisted in a desperate attempt to rewrite history. Mr. Wike, through his spokesperson, claims that he had 13 votes from a committee set up to recommend a vice presidential running mate, while Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa had only two.

“Let us be clear: there are no laid down rules or laws on the selection process of a running mate. Committees, consultations, and recommendations are advisory in nature.

“The final decision rests solely and exclusively with the presidential candidate, in this case, Atiku Abubakar. It is a constitutional and strategic choice, not a popularity contest.

“Assuming, but not conceding that Wike had 13 votes and Okowa had 2 — just like universities confer degrees “in learning and in character” — one must ask: what is the worth of votes if character scores a zero?

“Leadership is not only about numbers; it is about temperament, dignity, and the ability to unify. A man may boast of numbers, but if his conduct lacks grace and humility, those numbers are empty.

“We make no apologies for choosing Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa as the running mate in 2023. That decision was based on a combination of intellect, composure, and statesmanship.

“We have been vindicated by Mr. Wike’s public conduct in Rivers state where he once served as governor and in Abuja since becoming FCT Minister, which has made it abundantly clear why he was unsuitable for the role of Vice President in a ticket meant to unify, not divide.

“We urge Mr. Wike and his social media spokesperson to resist the temptation to sermonize about religious piety during Ramadan and Lent, too, while simultaneously fanning the flames of discord. Let us not reduce sacred periods to a tool for petty political jabs.

“The task of rebuilding our party and our nation is a serious one. It is time to move beyond bruised egos and focus on what truly matters: the future of Nigeria and the wellbeing of its people!.”

Last modified on Sunday, 30 March 2025 05:23

Military appointments during emergency rule undermine democracy, says Audu Ogbeh

Admin

Audu Ogbeh, a former minister of agriculture, has faulted the practice of replacing civilian governors with military appointees during state of emergency.

Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today, the ex- minister said President Bola Tinubu and his predecessor, Olusegun Obasanjo, had taken similar steps, raising concerns about a return to military-style governance.

Ogbeh warned that the practice could send a damaging message to Nigerians about the ability of civilian leaders to govern themselves.

“The only other thing that I’m asking is: Why is it that each time there is this suspension of a governor, a military person is put back in place?” he asked.

“Do we miss military rule or are we suggesting that civilians are incapable of governing themselves?

“Obasanjo did it twice, in fact, thrice, and we have it again. What’s the logic? This is why, in the first place, this whole imposition of a state of emergency should be avoided.

“Since the constitution doesn’t say you can only pick this or that person, the president is free to do so, but it’s also sending a funny signal that civilians can’t do the job themselves.

“That’s not a good one. That’s why civilians themselves should be more responsible. Elected individuals should behave themselves and not carry on as if it’s a holiday and that they can do as they wish because they are sending the wrong signal to society.”

On March 18, Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers, citing the protracted political crisis and vandalisation of oil facilities.

The president also suspended Siminalayi Fubara, the state governor; Ngozi Odu, his deputy; and members of the state assembly.

Tinubu nominated Ibok-Ete Ibas, a retired vice-admiral, as the sole administrator of Rivers.

On March 20, the senate and the house of representatives controversially ratified Tinubu’s request for the emergency rule.

The presidency had said that the decision was to prevent further escalation of the political crisis in the south-south state.

Several stakeholders, including the south-south governors’ forum, have condemned the emergency rule in Rivers.

[TheCable]

Don’t overspend at your expense – Frank Edwards

Admin

Gospel singer Frank Edwards has advised against overspending in an attempt to emulate his charitable actions.

Edwards, on Facebook, emphasised that his financial capacity and business ventures enable him to support others.

He cautioned fans not to drain their savings in an effort to help others, as they may not have the same financial stability or guidance.

The singer specifically addressed those trying to start their lives, urging them to prioritise stability before attempting to support others.

He wrote: “For those following me i need to sound you this warning! Don’t say Frank Edwards empowers people, gives a lot … and you go and start doing the same thing with your little savings .. you don’t know how many businesses i own , you don’t know how long I’ve been working, you don’t have the instructions i have ..This is specifically for those of you trying to kick start your life . DONT EMPTY YOUR SAVINGS. .

stand 1st so you are able to carry others. Because i saw a comment that says “sir i am going to empty my savings and help people like you do”, calm down”.

[TheCable]