Latest News
FEATURES
Alex Otti, governor of Abia state, says he has no intention of running for the senate after his “eight-year” stint.
Otti spoke on Saturday at a reception held in his honour by the Anambra Development Unions Association, Aba branch.
He dismissed reports suggesting he was eyeing a senate seat, describing them as “unfounded” and “misleading”.
“When I finish my eight years here, I will retire. I am not going to Abuja,” the governor said.
He also urged critics to refrain from spreading what he termed “falsehoods”, adding that the political space should be opened up for younger Nigerians.
“We are no longer that young. Society is changing, and the young ones are rising. It’s time we give them the opportunity,” he said.
The governor also spoke about plans to revisit the 2011 disengagement of 154 civil servants, most of whom were teachers.
He said he had directed the head of service to conduct an urgent review of the matter and propose possible remedies.
Otti said those below the age of 65 might be re-engaged on a contract basis, particularly to address the shortage of teachers in the state.
He faulted the disengagement, which was reportedly based on state of origin, describing it as “unjust” and “illegal”.
“For those outside the age bracket, we’ll find fair compensation mechanisms,” the governor said.
Otti reiterated his administration’s commitment to justice, inclusion, and “correcting the wrongs of past administrations”.
Bukky Raji has recounted how she lost two sisters to terminal illnesses, which significantly impacted her life and acting career.
In a recent interview with her colleague Biola Adebayo, the actress said she grew up in a polygamous family with four siblings from her mother.
The film star, who lost her father at age seven, disclosed that her close-knit relationship with her mother played a significant role in her life.
She said that when her mother suffered a stroke, she put her acting career on hold to care for her.
Bukky revealed that one of her sisters passed away due to kidney disease, while the other had a hidden condition, later suspected to be HIV or diabetes.
She disclosed that her family did not have the understanding or resources to diagnose the condition accurately, and it was only after her sister’s passing that they ran tests to determine the cause of her illness.
The actress said she delayed her marriage until she was over 30 because she wanted to be close to her mother, who eventually passed away.
“When I was single if my mummy says ‘Biodun where are you? I want to see you. It has been a while since I saw you’. I would immediately visit her. Later, when she got sick and had a stroke, I did not leave her.
“When I wanted to get married, I told my husband I did not want to stay far from my mother. That thing just worked that we were lived close to her. She died a few years ago. I miss her so much. I miss all my dead people.
“I lost two sisters from the same mum. From the five us. One died of kidney issues. The other, too, was very sick. We later realised, because we did not have the understanding then, that she had diabetes or HIV. I could not confirm it then. Later, we had to run a test on her. The other members of the family that are remaining had nothing to the glory of God. The one that had kidney issues died first.
“My two sisters died before my mum. It was very hard. It was one of the things that made me stay away from acting.”
Bukky began her acting journey in 1999, featuring in Yoruba films
A former governor of Oyo State, Dr. Victor Omololu Olunloyo, has died.
His death was announced on Sunday, in a statement by Oladapo Ogunwusi on behalf of the family.
“With a heavy heart but gratitude to the Almighty, we announce the passing into glory of Dr. Victor Omololu Olunloyo, former governor of Oyo State, mathematician and engineer and renowned technocrat, a few days before his 90th birthday,” the statement read.
Described as the Balogun of Oyo and Otun Bobasewa of Ife, the family noted that the late elder statesman was “first Rector, Ibadan Polytechnic and first Rector, Kwara State Polytechnic among other notable appointments.”
Born on April 14, 1935, in Ibadan, the late politician was known for his intellect, public service, and repeated brushes with false death reports.
In April 2024, nearly a year before his actual death, Olunloyo broke his silence over yet another rumour of his passing.
Speaking to The PUNCH correspondent who visited his Molete residence in Ibadan, the elder statesman declared, “I’m still here, not yet gone.”
He expressed concern over the recurring rumours, saying, “Those breaking death news and the person presumed dead will all die one day.”
Reflecting on his long life, he said, “I’ve been lucky. My father died at 42, while my mother died at 102. I’m 89. I’ve crossed the expected life age.”
This was not the first time Olunloyo had to deny death reports.
In June 2022, a similar rumour made the rounds that he had died at the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan. Days later, his family issued a statement saying he was alive but battling age-related ailments.
“We would greatly appreciate your prayers for our father who is presently in the ICU at UCH Ibadan,” the family had said in July 2022.
When asked in April 2024 if the repeated rumours had affected him, Olunloyo said, “No, not at all. This is not the first time.”
A highly respected academic, Olunloyo earned his Ph.D. in 1961 from the University of St. Andrews, Scotland. His thesis focused on the “Numerical Determination of the Solutions of Eigenvalue Problems of the Sturm–Liouville Type,” and he authored several papers in applied mathematics and number theory.
He began his public service journey early, becoming Commissioner for Economic Development for the Western Region at age 27 in 1962 under Dr. Moses Majekodunmi. He also served under Colonel Adeyinka Adebayo and held various portfolios including Community Development, Education, Local Government, and Chieftaincy Affairs.
In these roles, he was responsible for crowning traditional rulers such as the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Adeyemi III, and the Soun of Ogbomosho, Oba Oyewunmi.
Olunloyo’s political peak came when he was elected governor of Oyo State on October 1, 1983, under the National Party of Nigeria, defeating incumbent Bola Ige of the Unity Party of Nigeria. However, his tenure lasted only three months before the military coup of December 31, 1983, led by General Muhammadu Buhari.
In later years, he remained active in politics. Though he declared interest in the 2003 Oyo State governorship race under the PDP, he was not selected as the party’s candidate.
He held other political roles, including chairmanship of various committees for the PDP and later moved to the Action Congress of Nigeria in 2012.
In his career marked by intellect, resilience, and public service, Olunloyo also carried the unintended legacy of repeatedly “dying” in the media before his actual passing.
As the family makes burial arrangements, they ask for understanding from the public and the press.
“Even from everlasting to everlasting, He is God,” the statement concluded.
Former Governor of Oyo State, Chief Victor Omololu Olunloyo, has passed away.
He reportedly died in the early hours of Sunday, just days before his 90th birthday.
His death was confirmed in a statement issued by Barrister Oladapo Ogunwusi on behalf of the family.
“With a heavy heart but gratitude to the Almighty, we announce the passing into glory of Dr. Victor Omololu Olunloyo, former governor of Oyo State, mathematician and engineer, and renowned technocrat, a few days before his 90th birthday,” the statement read.
Dr. Olunloyo, who held the traditional titles of Balogun of Oyo and Otun Bobasewa of Ife, was a respected statesman with a distinguished public service career. He was the first Rector of both The Polytechnic, Ibadan and Kwara State Polytechnic, among several other notable appointments.
“His long record of service to the nation and humanity is a source of pride to his family and associates, even as we come to grips with this devastating event,” the statement added.
The family appealed for privacy during this period of mourning, noting that arrangements for a befitting burial are underway.
Reject $1.08bn World Bank loan, probe missing N233bn in NBET, other funds - SERAP tells Tinubu
AFOLABI
Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged President Bola Tinubu “to reject the recently approved $1.08bn World Bank loan and instead direct the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice Mr Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, and appropriate anti-corruption agencies to promptly investigate the allegations that over N233bn of public funds are missing, diverted or unaccounted for by the Nigerian Bulk Electricity Trading Plc., Abuja and other ministries, departments and agencies [MDAs].
SERAP said, “Anyone suspected to be responsible should face prosecution as appropriate, if there is sufficient admissible evidence, and any missing public funds should be fully recovered and remitted to the treasury.”
According to SERAP, “the recovered N233 billion should be used to fund the deficit in the 2025 budget and to ease Nigeria’s crippling debt crisis.”
The World Bank last week approved a $1.08 billion loan for Nigeria to ‘enhance education quality, build household and community resilience, and improve nutrition for underserved groups.’
In the letter dated 5 April 2025 and signed by SERAP deputy director Kolawole Oluwadare, the organisation said: “The World Bank loan is neither necessary nor in the public interest, especially given the country’s crippling debt burden, and staggering amount of missing public funds from MDAs that your government has failed to probe or recover.”
According to SERAP, “the Federal Government should not collect any loan from the World Bank or any other institutions and agencies until the missing N233 billion is fully recovered, consistent with the Nigerian Constitution 1999 [as amended] and the country’s international obligations.”
The letter, read in part: “SERAP is seriously concerned that the Federal Government and Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory continue to face a debt crisis, and vicious debt cycles or in debt distress or at high risk of debt distress.”
“According to the UN Independent Expert on foreign debt and human rights, Nigeria faces debt service relative to tax revenues that exceed 20 per cent, with escalating social tensions linked to poverty and inequality.”
“The damning revelations about the missing N233 billion are documented in the 2021 audited report published on Wednesday 13 November 2024 by the Office of the Auditor-General of the Federation.”
“The allegations suggest a grave violation of the public trust, the Nigerian Constitution 1999 (as amended), the country’s anticorruption legislation and international anticorruption obligations.”
“There is a legitimate public interest in ensuring justice and accountability for these grave allegations.”
“We would be grateful if the recommended measures are taken within 7 days of the receipt and/or publication of this letter. If we have not heard from you by then, SERAP shall consider appropriate legal actions to compel your government to comply with our request in the public interest.”
“According to the 2021 annual audited report by the Auditor-General of the Federation, the Nigerian Bulk Electricity Trading Plc., (NBET) Abuja ‘paid over N96 billion [N96,196,794,844.67] for services not performed and goods not supplied.’”
“NBET also reportedly spent over N111 billion [N111,601,369,196.22] in 2021 but failed to account for the money. NBET failed to ‘recover outstanding revenues/debts’ of over N2 billion [N2,896,304,647,500.30].”
“These allegations do not include the previous allegations SERAP sent to you that NBET paid N100 billion to companies and contractors for projects not executed.”
“The Nigerian Security Printing and Minting Company Plc (NSPM), Abuja also reportedly failed to remit over N10 billion [N10,393,793,419.34] of taxes collected. The Auditor-General is concerned that the non-remittance is a violation of paragraph 235 of the Financial Regulations.”
“NSPM also reportedly failed to account for over N14 billion [N14,136,472,333.16] of contract payments awarded in ‘violation of due process.’ NSPM ‘illegally took custody of government vehicles worth over N400 million [N413,343,623.00] and failed to account for the vehicles/money.”
“The National Pension Commission, Abuja also reportedly failed to account for over N4 billion [N4,429,550,386.58] of internally generated revenue to the Consolidated Revenue Fund. The Federal Ministry of Works [Housing Sector] paid over N1 billion [N1,076,662,242.61] without any documents.”
“The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) also reportedly ‘printed 52,714 National Driver’s Licence [NDL] in 2020’, amounting to over N300 million [N316,284,000.00] but failed to account for the money. The Auditor-General fears the money may be missing.”
“The FRSC also failed to account for over N3 billion [N3,599,352,300.13] being money collected for driver’s licences. The money was ‘diverted to the Partners’ commercial banks accounts.’ The Auditor-General fears the money may have been pocketed.”
“The FRSC also failed to remit over N465 millions [N465,415,371.35] of taxes collected. The Auditor-General fears the ‘money may have been diverted.’ He wants the ‘money recovered and remitted into dedicated CBN accounts.’”
“These allegations can promptly be investigated and suspected perpetrators named and shamed. Taking these steps would advance the right of Nigerians to restitution, compensation and guarantee of non-repetition and improve public confidence in the fight against corruption.”
“Investigating the allegations and naming and shaming and prosecuting those suspected to be responsible for the missing public funds and recovering the funds would serve the public interest and end the impunity of perpetrators.”
“SERAP also notes that the consequences of corruption are felt by citizens on a daily basis. Corruption exposes them to additional costs to pay for health, education and administrative services.”
“Section 13 of the Nigerian Constitution imposes clear responsibility on your government to conform to, observe and apply the provisions of Chapter 2 of the constitution. Section 15(5) imposes the responsibility on your government to ‘abolish all corrupt practices and abuse of power.’”
“Under Section 16(1) of the Constitution, your government has a responsibility to ‘secure the maximum welfare, freedom and happiness of every citizen on the basis of social justice and equality of status and opportunity.’”
“The UN Convention against Corruption and the African Union Convention on Preventing and Combating Corruption to which Nigeria is a state party obligate your government to effectively prevent and investigate the plundering of the country’s wealth and natural resources and ensure accountability for any violations.”
“Specifically, article 26 of the UN convention requires your government to ensure ‘effective, proportionate and dissuasive sanctions’ including criminal and non-criminal sanctions, in cases of grand corruption.”
“Article 26 complements the more general requirement of article 30, paragraph 1, that sanctions must take into account the gravity of the corruption allegations.”
The 2023 presidential candidates of the Peoples Democratic Party, Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party’s Peter Obi, and the National Secretary of the Coalition of United Political Parties, Peter Ahmeh, have called for electoral reform ahead of the 2027 elections.
They said electoral reform was a crucial element that would aid the ongoing national coalition negotiations in achieving its objectives.
As the election approaches and coalition talks among opposition leaders gain momentum, there have been numerous calls for the amendment or reform of electoral laws.
Atiku, through his media aide, Paul Ibe, stated that electoral reform to uphold the integrity of elections were necessary.
In an interview with Sunday PUNCH, Atiku stated that electoral reform was a key topic in coalition negotiations and highlighted the need for secure electronic transmission of results.
He stated, “It’s all part of the process. The rules of engagement need to be up to speed. They must reflect best practices. Even the administration recognises that there are shortcomings with the electoral law and that it needs to be amended. I believe the leaders have not only spoken about this but have also taken steps. For instance, they submitted a memorandum for constitutional amendments.
“So, it is part of the discussion. Well, the goal is to ensure the integrity of the process. It is not enough to encourage people to vote if their votes won’t count. There needs to be certainty about whether the votes will be counted. For example, the electronic transmission of results needs to be secure. It shouldn’t be left to the discretion of INEC, depending on the political situation, leading to manual transmission of results.
“This is crucial because it was a major issue in the last election. There was a disparity between the votes at the polling units, which should have been automatically transmitted. Instead, manual collation and transmission led to inconsistencies.”
Obi, speaking through the National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, Tanko Yunusa, emphasised focus on electoral reforms that would improve the process.
The former Governor of Anambra State also called for reforms that would prevent the defection of politicians from one party to another.
He stated “We are looking for an electoral reform that will have a positive impact on our elections, ensuring that we have a free and fair election that is accepted by the majority of the people, not just a few.”
“We want an electoral system that will address the issue of whether, when you win a seat in a political party, you remain in that political party. Regardless of the challenges or issues within the party, you stay and work to correct them, not jumping from one political party to another like a prostitute. We don’t want that kind of electoral system.
“We want an electoral system where the result of every election at every polling unit will be electronically transmitted with no easy way for manipulation. We want an electoral system that can protect political parties so that we will have proportional representation. Proportional representation means that if you have 5% of the total votes in the election, it should be represented in parliament.
“We want an electoral law that will criminalize anyone seen to have manipulated the system, with immediate enforcement. This means that the adoption of Justice Mohammed Uwais report suggests that INEC should be divided into three parts: the delineation commission, the electoral commission, and the enforcement commission. This way, we can begin to have a credible electoral process in Nigeria.”
Similarly, Ameh called for electoral reforms that would allow all elections to be held on a single day, stating that it would reduce costs.
In an exclusive interview with Sunday PUNCH, the CUPP National Secretary explained that holding elections on separate days had contributed to voter apathy.
He stated “I think the critical issue is that they should allow all elections to be conducted on the same day. It’s harming our democracy, especially at the state level, where elections often have to be held separately.
“The level of voter apathy that has characterised our elections over the years is partly due to these elections being held on different days. Conducting elections on two separate days leads to fatigue and frustration.
“When you do reverse logistics—packing up the materials after the elections and returning them to the INEC centers—you end up paying for this process twice.”
“We Will Not Be Quiet” - Mass Protests Erupt Across U.S. As Thousands Rally Against Trump’s Policies
AFOLABI
United States President, Donald Trump’s policies sparked widespread outrage, drawing tens of thousands of protesters to major U.S. cities in what became the most significant wave of demonstrations since his return to the White House.
Critics of the Republican leader’s administration gathered in cities such as Washington, New York, Los Angeles, Houston, Florida, and Denver, condemning issues ranging from government restructuring to trade disputes and civil rights concerns.
“I am so angry, I’m so mad, all the time, yes. A bunch of privileged, white alleged rapists are controlling our country. It’s not great,” said Shaina Kesner, a 43-year-old artist from New York, as she marched alongside fellow protesters in Manhattan.
In the nation’s capital, thousands assembled on the National Mall, some having traveled from distant states to participate. Speakers took to the stage, addressing the crowd with passionate remarks.
“We have about 100 people who have come down by bus and van from New Hampshire to protest against this outrageous administration (that) is causing us to lose our allies across the world, and causing devastation to people here at home,” said Diane Kolifrath, 64, a bike tour guide.
“They’re gutting our government.”
Symbolic Protests and Global Solidarity
Demonstrations took on various forms, with some protestors using symbolic imagery to express their discontent. In Los Angeles, a woman dressed as a character from ‘The Handmaid’s Tale’ held a flag reading, “Get out of my uterus,” in reference to Trump’s stance on abortion rights.
Meanwhile, in Denver, a protester held a placard stating, “No king for USA,” as demonstrators rallied in opposition to what they viewed as Trump’s authoritarian tendencies.
The protests were not confined to American cities alone. Demonstrators in European capitals also voiced their disapproval, particularly over Trump’s trade policies.
“What’s happening in America is everyone’s problem,” said Liz Chamberlin, a dual US-British citizen at a London rally.
“It’s economic lunacy… He is going to push us into a global recession.”
In Berlin, retiree Susanne Fest, 70, expressed her concerns about the US political climate. “The guy is a lunatic,” she said, accusing Trump of creating “a constitutional crisis.”
A Nationwide Movement
According to AFP, the protests were largely organized by left-leaning groups, including MoveOn and Women’s March, under the banner of “Hands Off” events, with demonstrations reportedly taking place in over 1,000 cities and every congressional district.
Trump’s administration has sparked widespread anger through moves perceived as an effort to shrink government, enforce conservative policies, and strain relations with allies through aggressive trade negotiations. The resulting uncertainty has caused volatility in financial markets.
“We’re out here to stop the, honestly, fascism,” said Dominic Santella, a protester in Boston. “We’re stopping a leader from… jailing his opponents, stopping him from jailing just random people, immigrants.”
With Democrats in the minority in both chambers of Congress, frustration has grown among those who feel their party has been unable to effectively counter Trump’s agenda.
At the Washington rally, Representative Jamie Raskin, a Democrat who played a key role in Trump’s second impeachment trial, addressed the gathering.
“No moral person wants an economy-crashing dictator who knows the price of everything and the value of nothing,” he declared.
Veteran activist Graylan Hagler, 71, also spoke, rallying the crowd. “They’ve woken up a sleeping giant, and they haven’t seen nothing yet,” he said.
“We will not sit down, we will not be quiet, and we will not go away.”
A Peaceful Yet Powerful Display
The protests remained peaceful, with an energetic and determined atmosphere. Participants ranged from elderly citizens to young parents pushing infants in strollers.
The Women’s March of 2017, held shortly after Trump’s first election, saw an estimated half a million people gather in Washington. Organizers of Saturday’s event had initially predicted a crowd of 20,000 but later reported significantly higher numbers.
Despite mounting criticism, both domestically and internationally, Trump’s administration has dismissed the protests, maintaining that his policies remain steadfast.
The president, who still enjoys significant support among his base, remains resolute.
“My policies will never change,” Trump asserted on Friday.
Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu has emerged as the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the Anambra gubernatorial election.
The results for the APC primary was declared by Governor Bassey Otu, Chairman of the Primary Election Committee.
Speaking after his victory, Ukachukwu said: “We shall deliver Anambra to the APC. One thing I want to say here, nobody has won the governorship of Anambra without my support; it has never happened before. I have been playing godfatherism, but now I want to be the father of the father, no more godfather.”
The results are:
Prince Dr. Nicholas Ukachukwu – 1,455 votes
Mr. Valentine Ozigbo – 67 votes
Engr. Johnbosco Onunkwo – 26 votes
Edozie Madu – 8 votes
The APC governorship primary election was marred by confusion and delay, with accreditation starting at 7 p.m. on Saturday, despite efforts to bring order to the process.
The exercise, which was initially scheduled to begin at 9 a.m. at the Dora Akunyili Women Development Centre in Awka, faced multiple challenges throughout the day, leading to widespread frustration among party members and aspirants alike.
As the day progressed, three prominent aspirants – Paul Chukwuma, Obiora Okonkwo, Chief Chukwuma Umeoji – announced their withdrawal from the primary, citing concerns over the lack of transparency in the process.
Earlier in the day, there were reports of violence at the venue, with thugs allegedly hired by one of the aspirants attacking delegates in an attempt to hijack the process. This took place despite the presence of security operatives at the venue.
The Federal Government is allegedly vetting potential candidates to fill diplomatic roles in its 109 missions, 76 embassies, 22 high commissions, and 11 global consulates.
Since September 2023, President Bola Tinubu has operated his Democracy, Development, Demography, and Diaspora (foreign policy) without ambassadors.
That month, he concluded a sector-wide reassessment of Nigeria’s foreign policy, which saw over 83 career and non-career ambassadors recalled from their stations.
Sources who spoke to Punch revealed that a former Minister of Aviation under the Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration, Femi Fani-Kayode, and a former Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Femi Pedro, are among those that have been nominated to fill diplomatic roles.
It was also gathered that the vetting is not conducted centrally, as nominees are being asked to report to the Department of State Service (DSS) offices nearest to them.
Presidency officials confirmed that several candidates have been contacted to provide personal education and work history.
“They’re already doing security checks with DSS. When they have cleared security checks, we will release the list.
“Only those who have been cleared are announced. The process is ongoing. I know that we should have a list before the end of this month (April),” one official revealed,
A second source said, “The vetting is not done centrally. It is based on the location of the nominees. Nominees have been reached to provide personal history and information such as where they attended school, what appointments they have held, and the like. So, it is by location.”
Senior Presidency and foreign service officers say although the complete list of nominees is highly classified, some prominent and controversial figures are being screened.
One official said, “They’re going to announce the appointments soon. They are being screened as we speak. The names of the nominees are highly classified for now because not every one of the names listed will eventually make it through.
“FFK [Femi Fani-Kayode] is on the list. These are some of the controversial names that have been put forward as well. Then there is Fola Adeola [founder of Guaranty Trust Bank Plc] and Femi Pedro too. They’re moving on with the process more quickly this time.”
Giving reasons for the slow process, another official explained that the vetting was necessary to avoid complications that might hurt the country’s standing on the global scene.
“The nominees are being vetted, and background checks are being conducted on them. It is usually done so that the nominees will not have any security issues and their deployment will not have a negative impact on the country,” the official said.
Following fiery protests across the country this weekend, former vice president Kamala Harris took to X to thank protestors for standing up to the Trump administration.
The Hands Off! demonstrations took place in more than 1,200 locations across all 50 states, and were organized by a coalition that included more than 150 organizations, including civil rights groups, LGBTQIA+ rights organizations, veterans, environmental groups, and labor unions. Protestors voiced their frustrations at countless acts Trump has carried out since assuming office, including deporting immigrants, firing thousands of federal employees, closing Social Security offices, cutting health funding, scaling back protections for transgender people, and ongoing American support for Israel in its war on Gaza.
Satellite protests were also planned around the world, in the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Belgium, the Netherlands, Portugal, Mexico, and American territories like Puerto Rico and American Samoa.
Late Saturday afternoon, Harris tweeted, “Today in every state across our nation, Americans are standing up to the administration as they implement Project 2025 at full speed.”
The tweet continued, “Thank you for using your voices and the power of protest to stand for Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid; for the Department of Education and programs like Head Start; for clean air and water; for the right to make decisions about your own body without government interference.”
She closed with, “The voices of working people will always be louder than the unelected billionaires.”
When asked about the protests, the White House responded, “President Trump’s position is clear: he will always protect Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid for eligible beneficiaries. Meanwhile, the Democrats’ stance is giving Social Security, Medicaid, and Medicare benefits to illegal aliens, which will bankrupt these programs and crush American seniors.”
Harris had maintained a relatively low public profile since Trump’s inauguration, making just a select few appearances at public events since January, including at the NAACP Awards, where she received the NAACP Chairman’s Award. She will also be heading to Australia next month to headline a real estate conference.
Despite keeping public appearances to a minimum, she has continued to post to social media, including words of encouragement for Senator Cory Booker following his record-breaking 25-hour-long speech on the senate floor earlier this week, thanking him for his leadership.
She also tweeted about Susan Crawford’s victory in the Wisconsin State Supreme Court election against her Musk-backed opponent, Brad Schimel, calling her win a “victory for working people in Wisconsin.”
[Yahoo News]
More...
Nigeria’s public debt increased by 48.58 percent to N144.67 trillion as of December 2024 from N97.34 trillion recorded at the end of 2023.
Nigeria’s Debt Management Office disclosed this in its latest report on the country’s public debt profile.
Further analysis showed that Nigeria’s public debt surged by N47.32 trillion on a year-on-year basis.
The report also revealed a quarter-on-quarter rise of 1.65 percent from the N142.32 trillion recorded at the end of September 2024, which indicates that the country’s debt profile has been on a steady rise.
The rise in the debt profile of Africa’s most populous nation is mainly driven by external and domestic borrowing.
External debt rose by 83.89 percent to N70.29 trillion in December from 38.22 trillion in the same period in 2023.
Similarly, domestic debt rose by 25.77 percent to N74.38 trillion in December 2024 from 59.12 trillion at the end of December in 2023.
Accordingly, further breakdown of external debt shows that the federal government accounted for N62.92 trillion ($40.98 billion), while states and the FCT held N7.37 trillion ($4.80 billion).
In the domestic debt segment, the federal government held N70.41 trillion ($45.86 billion), with states and the FCT accounting for N3.97 trillion ($2.58 billion).
The increase in Nigeria’s debt profile has raised concerns among financial experts.
The Chief Executive Officer of the Centre for Promotion of Private Enterprises, Dr. Muda Yusuf, criticised the rising debt rise in Nigeria despite the huge infrastructural deficit.
[DailyPost]
Controversial reality TV star and influencer, Ijeoma Josephine Otabor aka Phyna has joined the newest pidgin radio station, Yanga FM.
At a formal launch of the radio station, Phyna explained why she joined the latest effort of the TVC Communication brand.
She said: “I normally like wahala. Then I realize that as I do my stuff of course for fun, there are some people who tend to take advantage of it to treat me as they like. There is something that is not adding up for me, then, when this call came to join Yanga FM, I realized that I can express myself better without hassles. I can now do my wahala without stress. So, if you say you have a problem with me now, there is no shaking because I have backings. Listeners will have a whole lot to talk about with my show. There will not be a dull moment with me.”
General Manager of Yanga FM, Marvin Arimi emphasised the need for innovation in the radio industry, leading to the establishment of Yanga.
He said: “Yanga is a new idea to make pidgin cool. Everybody comes in and follows a particular pattern but ours is different with a twist. Before now, the upper class frowned at their kids speaking pidgin but now since pidgin has now, they now want their children to speak pidgin because pidgin is cool.
We are here to change the game. We have everything for everyone. Our job is to make pidgin sound cool and fun, especially to connect with the younger people.Yanga FM aims to globalize pidgin, earning its status as Africa’s first urban pop culture radio station.” Arimi confidently asserted that Yanga FM is a lasting movement.
[TheNation]
Governors across the states of the federation are awaiting the federal government’s modalities for the establishment of state police before they can swing into action.
At the meeting of the National Economic Council (NEC) last December, the federal government and governors of the 36 states in the country agreed to finalise discussions on the creation of state police at their next meeting scheduled for January 31, 2025.
At the December parley, the council presided over by Vice President Kashim Shettima received written positions on the matter from all the 36 states, with majority of them backing the state police.
However, the January meeting was not held as governors under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) were unable to attend because they had an emergency meeting in Delta State.
When LEADERSHIP Sunday contacted some of the governors on the matter, they linked the apparent inertia to the federal government’s non-release of the modalities for creating state police after they had presented their documents to the NEC.
They also explained that before state policing can take off, there must be national and sub-national legislation to ensure hitch-free operations.
Pending when the national document on state policing will be released, the governors said they would strengthen the synergy between federal security agencies and their state-owned security outfits.
In the wake of worsening security challenges in the country, some governors set up security organisations and equipped them to complement the police and sister agencies to tackle terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other vices.
In Gombe State, Governor Inuwa Yahaya launched “Operation Hattara”, which comprises members of the state government vigilante group called GOSTEC, Kaduna State set up the Kaduna State Vigilance Service (KADVS), Katsina State (Community Watch Corp (CWC) and Enugu State came up with the Neighbourhood Watch Group.
In Akwa Ibom State, the government launched Ibom Community Watch (ICW) for intelligence work without bearing arms; Borno State operates Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) and in April 2024, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi State unveiled the Metropolitan Quick Response security outfit to work in partnership with the Rapid Response Squad of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF).
Abia State joined the train with “Operation Crush”, Kebbi State kicked off Vigilantes Group of Nigeria (VGN) while Cross River State recently launched “Operation Okwork” comprising mainly personnel of the Nigeria Police Force.
Plateau State has “Operation Rainbow”, which is coordinated by a retired Brigadier-General of the Nigerian Army, Ebonyi State operates Neighbourhood Watch while the South West states of Ondo, Oyo, Osun, Ekiti and Ogun have Amotekun Corps.
Responding to our correspondent’s enquiries on state police, Nasarawa State Governor Abdullahi Sule said he welcomed the initiative because it has the potential to effectively combat the current security challenges in the state.
Through his special assistant on public affairs, Mr. Peter Ahemba, the governor said his administration can effectively handle the operations of a state police if put in place.
He said state police would benefit both the state government and the people as the officers would know the state and its terrain better.
Ahemba said, “Some of the issues triggering security challenges are local, state police personnel will better respond swiftly to such issues since the personnel will know the terrain better.
“The state government awaits enabling legislation from both the national and state assemblies to enable the state take the necessary steps in this direction,” he stated.
The Osun State government has also expressed its commitment to the take-off of state police once the federal government spells out the formalities.
The spokesperson to the governor, Mallam Olawale Rasheed, told LEADERSHIP Sunday in Osogbo that the state government is concerned about the security of the people and would be ready to key into the take-off of state police.
Meanwhile, the commandant of the regional security outfit Amotekun Corps in the state, Dr Adekunle Omoyele, has said the state government was committed to effective operations of the outfit with the provision of the required logistics.
Omoyele, who spoke on the reforms introduced into the operation of Amotekun in Osun, stated that additional 1,150 personnel were recruited, trained and inaugurated on Friday, March 28, 2025.
In Zamfara State, the government said it is yet to implement state police as the federal government has not released the blueprint for the proposed policing system.
In its absence, the state government said it would continue with its security outfit Community Protection Guards (CPG).
The director-general on media and communications, Nuhu Salihu Anka, told LEADERSHIP Sunday that the state was aware of the federal government’s plan to allow state police, adding that the state is waiting for Abuja to finalise the template.
According to him, the state government is currently focusing on the security outfit Community Protection Guards (CPG) recently launched to curtail security challenges in the state.
The commissioner for internal security, Dr. Mua’zu Danmusa, did not respond to messages sent to his mobile phone.
Similarly, Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has said the state remains one of the promoters of the state in the country and has not changed.
Aiyedatiwa who said the state already had a template with Amotekun, noted that the state was ready for the implementation of state police whenever the federal government gives its nod.
His chief press secretary, Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan, told our correspondent that the governor had promised to continue to strengthen Amotekun and ensure partnership with other security agencies to secure the state until the federal government approves state police.
His words, “Ondo is one of the promoters of state police and that still remains. We already have the template with Amotekun and the state is ready for implementation whenever the federal government gives the nod.
“In the meantime, we will continue to strengthen our Amotekun and ensure partnership with other security agencies to secure the life and property of our people,” he said.
Also, the Commander of the State Security Network Agency( Amotekun) Akogun Adetunji Adeleye, said the operatives of the corps have continued to work relentlessly to ensure the safety of life and property of the residents of the state .
Adeleye, who said the breaches at the borders of the state had reduced as a result of the activities of the Amotekun Rangers, noted that his men were able to arrest 32 suspects for kidnapping in the last one week in the state.
Apart from the arrest, the Amotekun boss hinted that the corps were able to intervene in about 15 kidnap issues and that the timely intervention foiled the kidnapping.
According to him, “In recent times, we have an upsurge of criminal activities including kidnapping inclusive in the state. The officers and men of the Ondo State security network mobilized additional support from the neighbouring local government and entered into the forest reserves and areas noted for these nefarious activities. We were able to flush them out and arrested over 32 suspects.”
Adetunji, however, urged the residents of the state to always give the security agencies timely and actionable information once any suspicious movement is noticed.
The Anambra State government says it still believes that the creation of state police will help to tackle the security challenges in Nigeria.
The commissioner for information, Dr. Law Mefor, however, said the state government’s ad-hoc security arrangement “Operation Udo Ga Achi” and “Agunechemba” operatives had been helpful in the fight against insecurity in the state.
Mefor said, “The state government certainly favours the creation of state police in line with the position of most states in Nigeria.
“The Solution Government believes state police will go a long way in dealing with insecurity in Nigeria because security is local.
“The new Anambra State Homeland Security Law 2024, which created Agunechemba and led to the launch of “Operation Udo Ga-Achi” strike force, has provided a robust legal framework for a new security intervention in the state.
“Both ‘Agunechemba’ and ‘Operation Udo Ga-Achi’ are doing fantastically well and this is evident in the fact that Anambra is calming down.
“Insecurity is Anambra is drastically deescalating and fake and evil native doctors who have made our people to believe that wealth without work is possible are now on the run and many have been apprehended and are being investigated for trial in court,” Mefor said.
In the same vein, an official of Kaduna State government has said Governor Uba Sani is still an advocate of the establishment of state police.
In a chat with LEADERSHIP Sunday in Kaduna, the official who pleaded anonymity, said the governor believes that the state police will fill the gap of inadequate security manpower to tackle security challenges.
Last year, Governor Sani strongly advocated for the creation of state police to combat bandits terrorising his state and the North West zone.
When contacted, the commander of the Kaduna State Vigilance Service (KADVS), Brig. Gen. Umar Muhammad Ibrahim (rtd), said he would not speak on telephone on how his men were assisting conventional security to tackle criminals in the state.
[Leadership]
There are growing indications that Nigerians may soon pay less for Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, following a significant drop in the global price of Brent crude oil.
Naija News understands that the price of Brent, which is used globally to benchmark crude prices, has fallen to $65 per barrel from $69.90 per barrel in recent days.
This price reduction is partly driven by the announcement from U.S. President Donald Trump of sweeping new tariffs, which have influenced market trends.
Additionally, the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and its allies have decided to increase oil output by 410,000 barrels per day starting in May 2025, which is substantially higher than the previously planned increase of 135,000 barrels per day.
These decisions are contributing to a significant shift in the global oil market, ultimately affecting petroleum product prices.
Depot Prices on the Decline
As a result of the drop in crude oil prices, the depot prices for major suppliers have also seen a decrease. Depot prices for Mainland, A.Y.M, and Ever have dropped to ₦918 per litre, down from N920 per litre. Similarly, Prudent, Eterna, and Soroman have lowered their prices to ₦912, ₦897, and ₦915 per litre, respectively, from previous prices of ₦913, ₦900, and ₦916 per litre.
According to petroleumprice.ng, oil marketers are expected to adjust their pump prices downwards as they receive new supplies this week, assuming the current market conditions persist.
This could lead to a reduction in the retail price of petrol, benefiting consumers across the country.
In an interview with Sunday Vanguard, Billy Gillis-Harry, the President of the Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN), expressed optimism about the potential benefits of the price reduction.
He stated that if the favorable market conditions continue, the decrease in fuel prices could lead to lower costs for fares, goods, and services, benefiting the Nigerian economy as a whole.
Meanwhile, in a report, OPEC stated, “The eight OPEC+ countries, which previously announced additional voluntary adjustments in April and November 2023, namely Saudi Arabia, Russia, Iraq, UAE, Kuwait, Kazakhstan, Algeria, and Oman met virtually on 3 April 2025, to review global market conditions and outlook.
“In view of the continuing healthy market fundamentals and the positive market outlook, and in accordance with the decision agreed upon on 5 December 2024, subsequently reaffirmed on 3 March 2025, to start a gradual and flexible return of the 2.2 million barrels per day voluntary adjustments starting from 1 April 2025, the eight participating countries will implement a production adjustment of 411 thousand barrels per day, equivalent to three monthly increments, in May 2025.
“This comprises the increment originally planned for May in addition to two monthly increments. The gradual increases may be paused or reversed subject to evolving market conditions. This flexibility will allow the group to continue to support oil market stability. The eight OPEC+ countries also noted that this measure will provide an opportunity for the participating countries to accelerate their compensation.
“The eight countries reaffirmed their commitment to the voluntary production adjustments agreed at the 53rd Joint Ministerial Monitoring Committee, JMMC meeting on 3 April 2024. They also confirmed their intention to fully compensate any overproduced volume since January 2024 and to submit updated front-loaded compensation plans to the OPEC Secretariat by 15 April 2025.”