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Adeola George, the 41-year-old daughter of Nigerian actress Jumoke George, has returned from Mali four years after going missing.
In an earlier report, the veteran actress had during an interview on Talk to B show, cried out raised alarm over her missing daughter, homelessness and ill health.
She said, “Dear Nigerians, please pray for me.
“I have never ruined anyone’s life. I am tired, I can no longer bear it. I don’t have a home, I don’t have anything, and a child of mine is missing.
“My firstborn, Adeola, has been missing for the past four years. I have been sick since January 2nd. I have done several tests, and now I need to do tests on my brain and heart. It costs N400,000, and I don’t know where to get the money.”
However, giving an update about the incident, ‘Talk to B’ show host, Biola Bayo, announced that Adeola had been found in Mali.
Sharing the details of her video call with Adeola on Instagram, Biola Bayo said “I finally got to speak with Adeola and this is what she said. She hasn’t called her mom, but Mom is happy she’s alive.”
In a recent development, the chairperson, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, on Monday disclosed that Adeola, has returned to Nigeria.
According to her, the commission received Adeola from Mali, where she was trafficked.
She wrote, “Breaking! Adeola, daughter of popular actress Jumoke George, who cried out that she had not heard from her daughter in four years, is back home from Mali, where she was trafficked.”
Media
Breaking!Adeola, daughter of popular actress, Jumoke George, who cried out that she had not heard from her daughter in four years is back home , from Mali where she was trafficked to .Just received her , with Biola Adebayo who broke the story and Niyi Johnson. Details later ! pic.twitter.com/YNqyRpCrTZ
— abikedabiri (@abikedabiri) May 19, 2025
A failed software update during Nigeria’s 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination has exposed significant vulnerabilities in the country’s digital examination infrastructure, affecting nearly 380,000 candidates and raising urgent questions about the reliability of the nation’s education technology systems.
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, which administers the computer-based university entrance exam, rolled out ambitious technological upgrades for the 2025 UTME. These included source-based scoring and randomised questions designed to curb cheating.
However, a critical patch was not deployed to server clusters in Lagos and the South-East, leading to widespread scoring errors, incomplete uploads, and missing questions, according to a technical review obtained by The PUNCH.
The glitch impacted 157 testing centres, 65 in Lagos and 92 in the Southeast, where outdated servers failed to correctly process exam responses. Over 78 per cent of the affected candidates scored below the 200-point benchmark for university admission, sparking alarm among students, parents, and educators.
“Technology has a history of making it easier to cheat, rig, or tamper with exam systems,” Co-founder and CEO of Schoola Ltd., Abdullahi Muhammad, told our reporter, highlighting the vulnerabilities inherent in digital examination platforms.
The expert leads a startup supported by the Mastercard Foundation EdTech Fellowship Programme, which aims to create a more inclusive and equitable learning environment in northern Nigeria.
His platform, curri-AI, helps teachers generate lesson notes quickly and efficiently.
Muhammad further argued that rigorous oversight of technical processes and thorough evaluation of outcomes could have detected the server update failure early, thereby protecting candidates and preserving trust in JAMB’s systems.
The problem first came to light on May 9, following the release of the UTME results. The Founder of Educare, Alex Onyia, observed unusual discrepancies in student performance through the Educare learning platform.
“There were schools where not a single student scored above 200. That had never happened before,” he remarked on X (formerly Twitter). Onyia later filed a formal petition with JAMB on behalf of affected students, asserting that the widespread inconsistencies could not be attributed to poor academic performance alone.
In response, JAMB commissioned an independent audit led by Educare. The investigation, headed by Engineer James Nnanyelugo, confirmed that the scoring errors were due to the failure to deploy the necessary software patch.
“The Lagos and South-East servers continued operating on outdated logic that could not interpret the newly shuffled question and answer structure,” Nnanyelugo explained.
The faulty patch caused the computer-based testing system to misread candidates’ answers during live exam sessions. The issue remained undetected until after the 17th exam session, by which time thousands of students had completed the test and received flawed results.
An edutech expert who doesn’t want his name in the media warned of deeper systemic problems, stating, “If every year some officials are performing some behind-the-scenes voodoo, then it affects the platform. Without transparency, these issues will keep recurring.”
The 2025 UTME, a critical computer-based test for university admissions, ran from April 24 to May 5. Official data shows that 206,610 candidates in Lagos and 173,387 in the South-East were impacted, totaling 379,997 students.
Alarmingly, over 78 per cent scored below 200 out of 400, the typical university admission benchmark, causing widespread panic among students, parents, and school administrators.
Facing mounting backlash, JAMB Registrar Prof Is-haq Oloyede publicly accepted responsibility, apologised, and announced a free retake of the exam for all affected candidates starting May 16. The rescheduled exams are planned to avoid conflicts with other national tests.
JAMB spokesperson Fabian Benjamin defended the swift retake arrangement, explaining, “If they don’t take the exam now, it means we would have to wait until August, and the longer we delay, the more anxious the students become.”
He also assured that provisions would be made for students who miss the retake for valid reasons, with dedicated staff assigned to handle complaints.
The Chairman of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission, Musa Aliyu (SAN), has revealed that the anti-graft agency recently blocked the diversion of N1.6bn in public funds using technology-based interventions.
Aliyu, who did not disclose the ministry or government agency involved in the blocked N1.6bn, stated that the interception was recent, adding that it highlights the growing role of technology in Nigeria’s anti-corruption war.
The ICPC chairman maintained that corruption in the country cannot be fought without being smart.
A statement on Sunday by the agency’s spokesman, Demola Bakare, said Aliyu spoke during a courtesy visit by the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure, Khalil Halilu.
“We cannot fight corruption without being smart. We know the increasing use of technology in committing corrupt acts, but we are also leveraging the same technology to fight back. Because of the deployment of technological tools, we were able to block N1.6bn that could have been stolen, “Aliyu was quoted as saying.
While noting that technology has increasingly become a double-edged sword—used to both perpetrate and combat corruption, the ICPC boss stressed the urgent need for strategic alliances.
He identified NASENI as a key potential partner, capable of developing custom tech solutions to enhance transparency and accountability in governance.
Aliyu proposed a Joint Innovation Task Team between the two agencies to identify priority areas of collaboration and ensure sustainable engagement.
He also called for cooperation in tracking public funds and monitoring procurement processes, which he said account for “78 per cent of corruption cases.”
Another key area of proposed collaboration is the development of a secure whistleblower platform to aid intelligence gathering and tip-offs.
“First, I would like us to collaborate in the tracking of public funds and procurement processes. Seventy to eighty per cent of corruption happens in the area of procurement. Second, we need to design a secure whistleblower platform, because we cannot fight corruption without access to information.,” Aliyu said.
He also pledged ICPC’s support to strengthen NASENI’s internal Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit, underscoring the commission’s willingness to back reforms that boost accountability across MDAs.
In response, NASENI CEO expressed optimism about the proposed partnership, assuring the ICPC of his agency’s readiness to provide technical expertise.
He emphasised the importance of digitalising internal processes to reduce risks such as document leakage and ensure greater operational efficiency.
“We are keen to extend our partnership to the ICPC. We would be happy to share our knowledge and experience in this area, “ he said.
There are indications that former Vice President Atiku Abubakar may have offered the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi a vice president role in a joint single-term ticket.
Reliable multiple sources involved in the coalition efforts, who requested anonymity due to a lack of authorisation to speak on the matter, told The PUNCH that the proposal was initially discussed during a meeting between Atiku and Obi early this year in the United Kingdom.
The insiders disclosed that Atiku has committed to serving a single four-year term, and Obi has agreed to be the former VP’s running mate.
However, the ex-Anambra state governor was said to be working to secure the backing of his core loyalists.
In the 2019 presidential election, Obi served as Atiku’s running mate under the Peoples Democratic Party, where they lost to former President Muhammadu Buhari of the All Progressives Congress.
On March 20, Atiku, Obi, former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, and others in Abuja announced the formation of a coalition to challenge President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 election.
The announcement sparked widespread debate about the prospects of opposition unity, with political stakeholders expressing varied opinions.
Nearly two months later, Nigerians are still waiting to hear from the political leaders, as both Atiku’s PDP and Obi’s LP remain mired in internal political crises.
A party chieftain privy to the political permutations told The PUNCH that Atiku and Obi have come to an agreement and are now in the process of consulting with their loyalists.
He said, “You know that by this time next year, by May 2026, almost all parties would have unveiled their presidential candidates for the 2027 elections. So, the coalition move is mindful of that.
“The leaders have all agreed that it’s only a coalition between Atiku, Obi, and others that can wrest power from Tinubu. So, they are crossing the T’s and dotting the I’s to finalise this.
“Atiku and Obi met earlier this year in the UK. That was where Atiku first mooted the idea of a coalition and urged Obi to be his running mate. Obi then asked for time to think it over and consult his loyalists.
“But recent developments show that Obi has accepted to be Atiku’s running mate, and Atiku has also agreed to serve a single four-year term and hand over to the former Anambra State governor. They have both agreed to sign a written agreement if necessary. Obi is trying to get the buy-in of his loyalists before this is formally announced.”
When questioned about the political platform they intended to use, given the crises in both the PDP and LP, another source revealed that they are considering the African Democratic Congress.
“The crisis in PDP and LP is frustrating. While they are both making efforts and waiting to see if the crisis can be resolved in favour of their camps, they are both looking at possible political parties to run on.
“The Social Democratic Party was part of the plans before now, but it seems the ruling APC has also infiltrated the party. So, they are tilting towards the ADC. As a matter of fact, some of the loyalists have been meeting with the ADC leadership, and others have quietly joined the party. So, if things do not favour them in LP and PDP, they may join ADC.”
Atiku’s media aide, Paul Ibe, said he could not speak on the agreement reached between the two opposition leaders.
Ibe, in an interview with The PUNCH, stated, “I know that His Excellency, Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi have been talking about the coalition. I cannot speak on the specific agreement they have reached.
“All I can tell you is that both of them are focused on ensuring that they build a viable coalition that will be robust enough to accommodate diverse Nigerians to unseat the clueless APC government in 2027.”
A loyalist of Obi and the National Secretary of the Coalition of United Political Parties, Peter Ahmeh, declined to comment on the single four-year term agreement but clarified that the former Anambra State governor is working with others to resolve the crisis within the Labour Party.
In response to The PUNCH’s inquiry about whether an agreement has been finalised for Obi to be Atiku’s running mate, Ahmeh simply said, “No comment on this one, until I speak with my oga.”
He continued, “My position on this remains that, for us to defeat the APC, we must follow the rules of engagement so we don’t allow Tinubu to become the landlord in the southern part of Nigeria when we have somebody who can defeat him effortlessly.
“We are in the LP as we speak, and that is the option available to accommodate everyone because you cannot sleep in a hostile environment and expect to succeed.
“We know there were hostile conditions created to undermine Peter Obi, but he is still in the Labour Party and is committed to making sure we get the APC out of government in 2027.
“As for the LP, the Supreme Court has spoken, and Abure’s term has elapsed. So, they can’t put something on nothing and expect it to stand. LP will survive.”
When reached for comment on the question of Atiku-Obi joint ticket, the National Coordinator of the Obedient Movement, Yunusa Tanko, stated that no such matter is currently being considered.
“As far as I am concerned, after I met with him in Benin, there was nothing of this nature on the table. He has not shared with me any of this particular issue. Neither has he called nor talked to me about it. In fact, not too long ago, I just spoke with him.
“So, there is nothing, as far as I am concerned, to confirm that such a discussion is on the table at the moment.”
The ADC National Chairman, Ralph Nwosu, confirmed that discussions are ongoing with all stakeholders involved in the coalition efforts.
Nwosu stated that 21 former national chairmen of deregistered political parties are now part of the ADC, adding that the party would make a significant announcement before the end of the week.
When asked if Obi and Atiku had approached his party about their intention to switch to the ADC, the party chair dodged the question and simply said, “The ADC leadership has held conversations with all major stakeholders in the coalition drive and even people in government — that is, even people in the APC.
“And they are all committed to building a mega African political party. So, we have spoken with all critical stakeholders. So, the stakeholders are all working together on this.”
Continuing, he stated, “We are part of the move. We have been working to give Nigerians a democracy that will improve their lives from the beginning. And within the last 10 years, about 21 national parties that have been deregistered have joined us in ADC. So, they all identified with our party.
“Currently, we are involved in coalition talks with all critical stakeholders. And we are meeting frequently, and by the grace of God, before the end of this week, we will announce some of the recent developments to the entire world.
“The Nigeria project is not local. Nigeria is critical to Africa. And that is why ADC is determined to bring about good leadership to rescue Africa, not just Nigeria.”
Atiku, who was VP to ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo from 1999 to 2007, has been on the ballot for close to two decades seeking to lead Nigeria.
Against the backdrop of plans by Atiku to run on the same ticket with the former LP Presidential candidate, Odeyemi urged the ex-VP to take the back seat, saying his time has passed.
“The truth is that Atiku cannot get the Presidential ticket of the PDP in 2027,’’ he declared.
‘’I am not sure he will get the ticket from any serious political party. If he is already offering Peter Obi the vice presidential slot, it is possible he has already pencilled some names down for ministerial positions. How can you offer what you don’t have?
“Atiku is not Abraham Lincoln. He should rest because I don’t see how he will realise his selfish ambition. His desperation is what has left the PDP where it is today.”
A chieftain of the Arewa Consultative Forum, Anthony Sani, said there is nothing wrong with Atiku and Obi walking the same path again, having done so in the past.
“Such arrangement by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi would surprise no one, especially when regard is paid to the fact that the duo was on the same team in PDP in 2019, albeit the team did not prevail in the elections.
“Whether the arrangement would have more traction this time around is for time to tell, given the strengthening of the political alliance between North-West and South-West, both of which are number one and number two in number of registered voters.
“What is more, the All Progressives Congress is making some significant inroads in the South-South. As I always say, all these are democracy in actions which should stun no one,” he observed.
Akpabio Concludes Empowerment, Project Commissioning In Akwa Ibom North West Senatorial District
Admin
President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio has successfully concluded another phase of empowerment initiatives and projects commissioning in the Akwa Ibom Northwest Senatorial District.
The events, which began Friday, May 16th came to an end on May 18 with projects commissioned in Abak, Ikot Ekpene, and Essien Udim Local Government Areas, with Constituents benefitting from projects facilitated by Akpabio.
In Abak council Area, Senate President Akpabio commissioned several projects, such as roads, ICT Centers, classroom blocks, ultra-modern markets, police stations among others.
The Chairman of Abak Local Government Area, Ime Charles, and the Akwa Ibom State Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Azare, expressed their delight and gratitude for the impactful developments.
In Ikot Ekpene, the Senate President commissioned a one storey 12 classrooms block at State College, Ikot Ekpene among other projects located in the area.
The final stop was Essien Udim LGA, where Senator Akpabio commissioned life-changing projects like health centers, ultra modern markets, classroom blocks, ICT hubs, roads, and a police station in Nto Nsek Village.
The Chairman of Essien Udim Local Government Area, Hon. Ntiedo Usoro, alongside CP Baba Azare, once again conveyed their appreciation for the Senator’s dedication to community development.
The three-day tour represents the second phase of empowerment for the people of Akwa Ibom North West Senatorial District, in fulfilment of his campaign promises to his Constituents in 2023.
Jackson Udom,
Special Assistant, Media To The President Of The Senate
The former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has warned against giving ethnic colouration to his visit to Rome on Sunday.
Naija News reported that Obi was in Rome to participate in the inauguration of Pope Leo XIV on Sunday.
Obi at the event exchanged pleasantries with President Bola Tinubu. His exchange with Tinubu in Rome has raised political opinions from his supporters and supporters of Tinubu.
On his ? handle on Monday, the former Governor of Anambra State urged Nigerians and leaders to imbibe the message of Pope Leo XIV.
He said: “I have just returned from the Vatican, and it was a deeply solemn and reflective visit. My participation in the inauguration ceremony was in line with my previous witnessing of inaugurations, swearing-ins, and official ceremonies across the world, this was no exception. Such occasions carry profound moral and spiritual significance. This was never a political event and should remain untouched by politics. Some moments are best reserved for quiet contemplation.
“After the inaugural Mass, I did not attend the Papal Audience and therefore did not have the opportunity to meet the Holy Father personally. That honour was reserved for heads of state and accredited diplomats. For those who desire such an encounter, the Papal Audience continues traditionally.
“What should truly command our attention, however, is the content and moral force contained in the Pope’s homily, particularly his urgent call to fight poverty and promote a spirit of brotherhood that transcends ethnic, political, and religious boundaries. The deeper meaning of the gathering lies not in ceremonial gestures, but in whether those present internalised his message and will return with the resolve to act.
“The fight against corruption is the essential first step toward building societies where resources are directed to what truly matters – education, healthcare, poverty alleviation, and infrastructure. These should be our major concern and the lasting message we carry home from the Vatican. May we, in whatever station we occupy, rise to the task of building a more just, compassionate, and prosperous nation.”
[NaijaNews]
Dr. Mubark Mahmud PhD, an environmental researcher originally from Kano State and now residing in France, has developed a groundbreaking technique for measuring tree height, now recognised as the “Mahmud Method.” This method has been integrated into the M-Tree software, utilised by universities across France for assessing tree height and diameter.
The innovation was officially launched at Université Paris-Saclay on 30 April and has been published in the journal Smart Agricultural Technology, with plans for incorporation into educational curricula in various institutions. There are also intentions to enhance the research through Artificial Intelligence.
Alhaji Aliko Dangote, Africa’s prominent billionaire businessman, praised Dr. Mahmud during a convocation ceremony at Aliko Dangote University of Science & Technology, Wudil, noting his achievement as a significant honour for Kano State and Nigeria. He stated, “Kano should take pride in Dr. Mubarak’s invention of a tree height measurement device, which has been officially endorsed by the French government.”
Dr. Mahmud’s device employs advanced technology for precise tree measurement, providing a more efficient approach to environmental monitoring and forest management, underscoring the value of supporting local talent in advancing scientific progress.
[Leadership]
Barcelona goalkeeper, Wojciech Szczesny, has told his teammate, Robert Lewandowski, not to give up on winning the LaLiga Golden Boot.
Lewandowski has netted 25 times this season and trails with three goals behind Real Madrid superstar, Kylian Mbappe, who leads with 28.
The Blaugrana have already claimed the La Liga title with their 2-0 win over Espanyol to complete a domestic treble under coach Hansi Flick.
Szczesny spoke during celebrations for their title. He said to Barca One via GOAL, “All that’s left is for Robert to win the Pichichi. Don’t worry, there’s two games left for Lewy to overtake Mbappe.”
Lewandowski failed to add to his tally when Barcelona lost 3-2 to Villarreal on Sunday.
The Polish marksman is now left with the final matchday against Athletic Club on May 25 to score at least four goals.
He will, however, hope that Mbappe, who has been unstoppable in his debut season for Los Blancos, does not add more goals to his 28 league tally.
[DailyPost]
Lofty promises allegedly by the Presidency and the national headquarters of the All Progressives Congress (APC) are some of the reasons why legislators, high ranking elective office holders and chieftains of other political parties are defecting to the ruling party, Daily Trust learnt.
In most of the instances, the defectors cite internal party wrangling or performance of the ruling government as reasons for dumping their political parties, under whose backs they rose to power.
Though political defections are not new in Nigeria’s democratic landscape, the rate and scale at which they have swept through the ranks of the opposition in recent months—less than two years into President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration—have triggered growing concerns.
Many observers are now questioning the motives behind the wave of cross-carpeting, especially amid worsening economic conditions.
These concerns have been amplified by the belief that, given the severe economic crisis following President Tinubu’s removal of fuel subsidy and the devaluation of the naira, and the worsening security situation, opposition leaders would rally together to present Nigerians with a viable alternative ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Yet, instead of strengthening the coalition efforts championed by former vice president and 2023 Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, the reverse has been the case.
Apart from the defection of the former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai and a few others from the ruling APC to the Social Democratic Party (SDP), which is being touted as the potential vehicle for the coalition, the APC has been harvesting defections from the PDP and other opposition parties at an alarming rate.
The gale of defections has permeated the political terrain as already a serving governor has moved to the APC and others reportedly only marking time.
Besides, many legislators at the national and state levels have moved to the APC, while the number of ex-governors, deputies, former legislators, among others has continued to swell.
But beyond citing the problems in their parties, Daily Trust learnt from multiple sources that some of the defectors were allegedly approached with mouth-watering offers to defect.
The essence, according to our sources, is to improve the chances of President Tinubu to get a second term in 2027.
The carrots being offered
There are allegations that a lot of money is being shared to opposition politicians especially in the Senate and House of Representatives to defect to the APC.
The allegation is the same against some politicians seen as powerful in their constituencies even though they don’t hold any political office, either elective or appointive.
Daily Trust could not independently verify this claim, as the presidency, the APC and those who have defected have denied the allegation.
Besides alleged financial inducements, there are accusations that most of the legislators that have defected so far have been assured of automatic ticket to return to the National Assembly in 2027, irrespective of how long they have been in the hallowed chambers, or the level of their performance.
It was suspected that the same offer has been made for some first-time governors from the opposition parties.
So far, only the governor of Delta State, Sheriff Oborevwori, has dumped the PDP, under whose back he rode to power in 2023, and joined the APC.
It is not clear whether the remaining opposition first-term governors would defect to the APC or not, but the actions and utterances of some of them showed that they are favourably disposed to what President Tinubu, and by extension the ruling party, are doing.
The first-time governors include Alex Oti (Labour Party, Abia), Umo Eno (PDP, Akwa Ibom), Peter Mba (PDP, Enugu), Abba Kabir Yusuf (NNPP, Kano), Caleb Mutfwang (PDP, Plateau), Siminalayi Fubara (PDP, Rivers), Agbu Kefas (PDP, Taraba) and Dauda Lawal (PDP, Zamfara).
Specifically for legislators at the National Assembly who are popular in their states, it was alleged that they are also being wooed with multi-billion naira projects, in addition to promises for automatic tickets for return.
But when contacted, some of them denied the allegations while others refused to talk at all. In retrospect, many of them during the announcement of their defections alleged that their former political parties were incurably enmeshed in crises and they have no option but to move on to the APC.
For instance, Senator Kawu Sumaila, who represents Kano South in the Senate under the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), is one of those who recently migrated to the APC.
Soon after his defection, rumours were rife that he defected to the ruling party because he was given a project worth over N90 billion to reactivate some dams in Kano under the Ecological Fund.
When asked during an exclusive interview with the Daily Trust to comment on this allegation, Kawu Sumaila said the projects approved for his senatorial zone were true, but that they were awarded long before he and other legislators from Kano defected to the APC.
He also said there was no any condition attached to their movement to the APC or the dam projects in question.
He added that the contract, which was approved by the federal government to the tune of over N90 billion, was not influenced by him alone, or awarded directly to him, saying they worked together with some members of the House of Representatives to attract the project.
“We influenced it (the constituency project) for our people. I am not a journalist. I am a representative of the people. I made promises during my campaign—one of them being to revitalise the agricultural and irrigation systems in Kano South. Our region has three major dams—Tiga and Challawa among them—which are among the largest in West Africa. These dams even support irrigation in parts of Kano Central, Yobe, Bauchi, and up to Maiduguri.
“For instance, Challawa in Karaye has been idle for 34 to 35 years after its completion. Reactivating it would impact at least 30,000 people.
“So, as a responsible representative, should I reject that kind of opportunity just because of political party differences? Should I say no to a project that benefits my people simply because of alphabetical differences in party names?” he asked.
In Katsina State, the only three members of the House of Representatives elected on the platform of the opposition PDP have defected to the ruling APC.
They are Hon. Salisu Yusuf Majigiri, representing Mashi/Dutsi federal constituency; Abdullahi Balarabe Dabai, representing Bakori/Danja, and Hon. Aliyu Ilyasu, representing Batsari/Safana/Danmusa federal constituency.
Both Dabai’s and Ilyasu’s phone numbers seem to be on call forwarding for days, such that they could only receive calls from the numbers they have saved. And the messages of inquiry sent to them yesterday on the allegations that they were influenced with either financial inducement, contracts, or automatic tickets, were not replied as at the time of filing this report.
For Hon. Majigiri, who picked up his call yesterday, he said he was about to collect his membership card of the APC at his political ward and would not be able to respond to the inquiry.
However, a former PDP ward chairman, Manawa ward of Batsari Local Government Area of Katsina State, Sani Muhammad popularly known as “I know”, told our reporter that he dropped his leadership position in the APC and defected with his house member.
“Actually, he (Hon. Ilyasu) defected to the APC before even consulting us, but the moment he called me to intimate me about the move, I decided to move with him, so I defected also.
“It is indeed the crisis in the PDP, especially in Katsina State, that forced him to leave. He is not the kind of person who likes crisis. We have not heard of any inducement, but we know that the APC were calling them to join them, so he decided to join,” he said.
In Kebbi, prior to the defections of Senators Adamu Aliero, Dr. Yahaya Abdullahi and Musa Mai Doki to the APC at the floor of the Senate Chambers in Abuja, plans for their movement started last year in Birnin Kebbi when Senator Aliero nominated some known political figures considered as his foot soldiers to dialogue with the APC-led administration under Governor Nasir Idris on alleged sharing formula for elective and appointive offices.
The group, led by his junior brother, Alhaji Abba Aliero, had met with Governor Idris and other APC chieftains at the Government House chambers in Birnin Kebbi where they discussed the modalities for their defection to the ruling party.
After coming out of the meeting, Abba Aliero said they were invited for a tete-a-tete, and the public would be informed of whatever decision was reached later.
He said “We, the supporters of Senator Aliero were summoned to a friendly discussion with His Excellency, Governor Idris, which we obliged. We sought for time to return to our constituencies for further consultations with our grassroots supporters before deciding on the best course of action.”
On his part, Dr Yahaya Abdullahi has been in the Senate since 2015. Up till the time of filing this report, Dr Abdullahi has not responded to calls to comment on the alleged reasons why he defected to the APC.
However, Abdullahi had earlier offered a more nuanced rationale for his defection. He recalled his resignation from the APC in June 2022, when he also stepped down as the 9th Senate Leader, following political disagreements in his state.
According to him, those disagreements had since been resolved under the current Kebbi governor’s leadership.
“For me, this is a homecoming. It is also politically imperative that I join President Bola Tinubu,” he added.
In Zamfara, there are allegations that the likes of Senator Ikra Bilbis, who represents Zamfara Central in the 10th National Assembly on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), would defect.
But in an interview with the Daily Trust, Senator Bilbis debunked the claim even though he admitted that he had succeeded in attracting projects to his people under the Tinubu administration.
“I’m not one of them (defectors). I’m not thinking about that. That’s not my priority,” he said.
When asked if he had attracted any project to his senatorial district, he said, “Of course. Have you forgotten? Recently, my bill has passed; it has gone through all the legislative processes from the Senate to the House of Representatives, and Mr President has even assented to the bill. That is the establishment of the Federal University of Health, Science and Technology.”
But when told that there were allegations that these are some of the things that the president is using to induce legislators, he said, “No. To be honest with you, to be fair to him, he has not even seen me.”
Rep. Adamu Tanko representing Suleja/Gurara/Tafa of Niger State, who defected from the PDP to the APC, denied being promised anything in return for his defection. He said it was out of his personal conviction and what he thought was the best for his people.
Rep. Tanko defected earlier in March alongside Rep. Husseini Mohammed Jallo, the member representing Igabi Federal Constituency of Kaduna State, who also joined the APC.
Rep. Tanko who spoke to Daily Trust over the phone on Sunday, said, “There was no promise of anything. There was none.”
Similarly, Donatus Matthew representing Kaura federal Constituency of Kaduna State, who dumped Labour Party (LP) for the ruling APC in February, also dismissed purported reports about enticing him with automatic ticket or any other thing by the ruling party.
The lawmaker, who also spoke to our reporter on phone, on Sunday, said the reports were mere political speculations. He told our reporter to contact the leadership of the ruling APC about whether or not there was any promise.
“Please, ask the leadership of the APC. That is the best place to get the answer to what you are asking. Thanks you,” he said.
It could be recalled that as at last week, 30 members of the House have defected since the inauguration of the 10th Assembly.
Out of the 30 that defected, 27 left the PDP, Labour Party (LP), African Democratic Congress (ADC), and the NNPP and joined the ruling APC while one left LP and joined PDP. Two left LP and joined APGA.
There’s no coercion – Senate leader
Amid the backlash trailing the gale of defections, particularly the fears of a creeping one-party state, Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, dismissed claims that the APC was coercing or inducing opposition lawmakers to defect.
Bamidele insisted that the decisions were voluntary and motivated by the spirit of national unity.
He described the senators’ defections as an act of patriotism and a necessary step toward building a cohesive front to address Nigeria’s deepening economic and security challenges.
“This is the time for all of us to work together to take Nigeria to the next level,” he stated, urging political actors to eschew grandstanding and focus on collaborative governance.
Bamidele also pushed back against the narrative that the APC was plotting a one-party state, maintaining that the defections should rather be seen as an alignment of political forces toward a government of national unity, not an attempt to suffocate the opposition.
His comments, however, have done little to calm fears among critics and civil society organisations who insist that the pattern of defections, coupled with statements by APC leaders such as Ganduje, reflect a broader agenda to entrench the ruling party’s dominance ahead of the 2027 polls.
They’re moving to realise their ambitions – APC
Contacted for a response to the allegations, the APC National Director of Publicity, Bala Ibrahim, told Daily Trust yesterday that the defectors were joining the ruling party to realise their political ambitions.
He said those who defected to the ruling party felt they couldn’t achieve their ambitions in their former parties, stressing that APC has done no wrong in providing them the platform to thrive.
Ibrahim, who challenged those making the allegations to provide proof, said “People go into politics for a purpose, and in achieving that, you look for the right vehicle to convey you.
“If you get that vehicle, you won’t care or worry about how you get there; the most important thing is to actualise your dream through that vehicle.
“If the APC is providing the platform for them to actualise their ambitions, I don’t see anything wrong with that in politics. People change camps in politics.
“If you are in a camp where you feel your vision will be frustrated, where you feel there won’t be a level-playing field, you move to where there is going to be democratic demonstration of a level-playing field. That is the purpose of politics,” he said.
Villa mum
The Presidency is yet to comment on the latest allegations of inducing politicians to defect. Efforts to reach out to Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the president on Information and Strategy were not successful as he was said to be in Rome.
Also, the Special Adviser to the President on Policy Communication, Daniel Bwala, could not be reached, and he was yet to respond to a WhatsApp message sent to him.
Earlier in April, the presidency had denied pushing for a one-party state, insisting that defections were voluntary.
It insisted that democracy under President Tinubu remained vibrant and unthreatened.
In a statement titled “Democracy Strong and Alive in Nigeria,” Onanuga rejected accusations that the Tinubu administration was edging towards authoritarianism through an orchestrated wave of defections.
Reaching out to second-term govs?
Daily Trust also learnt that the support of first-time governors and those who are serving their second term, irrespective of party leaning, is also being sought after, considering their control of party structures in their states, among other advantages.
But a source said the APC-led government is not actually fixated that the governors should be lured to its fold.
“As we all know, the ultimate goal is for the APC to have the majority of votes, especially in the presidential election during the next election. Therefore, the other kite that is being flown by those pushing for the Tinubu second-term bid is for the first-time governors to give a serious commitment that they would support the president to win.
“Once they keep to their words, they would also be supported in different ways to win their second term. This could be through big federal government projects through the budget or other interventions.
“They would be given the right of first refusal by the party. It is almost the same thing with the legislators. They would be supported through various means to win their primaries and the main election,” he said.
On second-term governors, another source said, “Even though most of them might not want to defect at this time, they, nonetheless, want to remain relevant in the scheme of things.”
“While some of them would like to go to the Senate, others would not want to be disturbed with questions after leaving office on May 29, 2027…So, the kite being thrown at them is to support the APC project so that at the end of the day, it will be a win-win situation,” the source said.
The second-term opposition governors are Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri (PDP, Adamawa), Bala Mohammed (PDP, Bauchi) and Seyi Makinde (PDP, Oyo).
Second-term governors who are members of the APC are Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos), Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), AbdulRahman AbdulRazak (Kwara), Abdullahi Sule (Nasarawa), Muhammad Inuwa Yahaya (Gombe), Babagana Zulum (Borno) and Mai Mala Buni (Yobe), amongst others.
First-term governors who are members of the APC includes but not limited to Ahmad Aliyu (Sokoto), Dikko Umaru Radda (Katsina), Hyacinth Alia (Benue), Umar Namadi (Jigawa), Francis Nwifuru (Ebonyi), Uba Sani (Kaduna), Bassey Otu (Cross River), Nasir Idris (Kebbi) and Umar Bago (Niger)
Govs not under duress – Gombe gov
When contacted by one of our correspondents on whether they were influenced by President Tinubu or the National Chairman of the APC, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, the Chairman of Northern Governors Forum and governor of Gombe State, Inuwa Yahaya, who commented through his spokesman, Ismaila Misilli, said there is no governor that is under pressure from any quarter.
“Our governor, who is the chairman of the northern governors and a strong member of the APC, has said it again and again that they are not under any influence,” he said.
“He has told the BBC in a recent interview, and I want to repeat what he said. Yes, big wigs are defecting and they would continue to defect to our party because of the good work we are all doing at the state level and at the national level.
“There is no directive or suggestion from the presidency for the governors to forcefully influence the defection of anybody. And there is no arrangement that the governors would be supported to have their way.
“However, what is certain is that the governors are on the same page with the president. Those that are joining the APC are simply being appreciative of the wonderful things the president and the governors are doing,” he said.
Asked if they are not scared that the party might implode at the end of the day, considering that those that are defecting mostly have the ambition of contesting for offices that are currently occupied by other politicians, Misilli said, “The APC structure is big enough to accommodate everyone. We have the federal government and we have many states, there is no problem at all.
“APC is a big house for everyone, and it is not about entrenching a one-party state; it is about providing good governance for the citizens which is gradually becoming visible.”
The most striking of the defections
The most striking of these defections was the movement of Atiku’s 2023 running mate, Ifeanyi Okowa, and Delta State Governor Oborevwori, alongside the entire PDP structure in Delta State, to the APC.
This cascade of defections soon extended to the Senate, where apart from Kawu Sumaila, formerly of the NNPP, three PDP senators from Kebbi State— Aliero (Kebbi Central), Abdullahi (Kebbi North) and Maidoki (Kebbi South)—also crossed over to the ruling party.
They were not the first. Earlier, Senators Ned Nwoko (Delta North), Francis Onyewuchi (Imo East), and the late Ifeanyi Ubah (Anambra South) had defected from the PDP, Labour Party (LP), and Young Progressives Party (YPP), respectively.
Onyewuchi, who was among the earliest defectors in July 2024, attributed his decision to the deepening factional disputes within the LP at both national and state levels. Similarly, in February 2025, Nwoko cited entrenched divisions within the PDP as his reason for embracing the APC.
Fractured opposition and unresolved leadership crises
At the heart of these defections lies the deepening disarray within Nigeria’s leading opposition parties. In the PDP, the leadership crisis festering since the fallout of the 2023 presidential election has remained unresolved, leaving the party fractured along regional and factional lines.
The prolonged stay of acting national chairman, Umar Damagum, and the crisis over the national secretary’s position deepened by the persistent push-and-pull between the camps loyal to Atiku Abubakar and Rivers State’s former governor, Nyesom Wike, have further weakened the party’s unity and national appeal.
Efforts to convene a decisive National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting have been consistently stalled, fuelling suspicions of deliberate sabotage by entrenched interests keen on maintaining the status quo. The power struggle in the PDP has not only paralysed decision-making at the national level but also trickled down to the states, with many local chapters thrown into chaos.
The Labour Party has faced its own internal crisis. The party, which rode on the popularity of Peter Obi in 2023 to secure seats in the National Assembly, has since become engulfed in leadership tussles at both national and state levels creating a fertile ground for aggrieved lawmakers to jump ship.
Similarly, the NNPP, once projected as an emerging third force, has been battling bitter supremacy wars between its presidential candidate, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, and other key stakeholders, leading to multiple court cases and leadership squabbles.
For many lawmakers, these crises have provided both a pretext and a political shield for their defections as internal crisis within a party is the only reason recognised by the constitution as grounds for defection.
Experts blame lack of ideology, rising materialism for defections
Meanwhile, political experts and civic groups have attributed the spate of defections to the ruling APC to a deep-rooted absence of political ideology within Nigeria’s party system, warning that the trend poses grave risks to the country’s democratic health.
Professor Tunde Adeniran, a political scientist and former Minister of Education, told Daily Trust that the unchecked appetite for material gains and the vacuum of ideological commitment among political actors have been major drivers of the ongoing defections.
“There is the rush at different levels and by various politicians to join the ruling party because of lack of ideology,” Adeniran said, adding that “Ideology should ordinarily serve as a compass to guide members of the political class and their followers. In its absence, the majority of politicians act without integrity, principles, or value-guided direction. They are, therefore, prompted by materialism in their actions.”
Echoing similar concerns, renowned political analyst, Professor Kamilu Sani Fage, described the defections as a reflection of Nigeria’s transactional politics, where political parties are seen merely as platforms for personal ambition rather than vehicles for ideological pursuits.
“It is always an easy decision for politicians in Nigeria to switch parties because most of them only see political parties as vehicles to achieve personal ambitions,” Fage observed.
“It is difficult to identify parties based on manifestos or ideologies, which makes it easier for politicians to move freely from opposition to ruling parties, and vice versa. Because of these personal goals and the lack of ideology, most politicians find it difficult to remain in the opposition,” he said.
Further amplifying the concerns, the Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED) warned that the mass defections, particularly from the National Assembly, were eroding political pluralism and risking a slide toward one-party dominance.
CHRICED’s Executive Director, Comrade Ibrahim Zikirullahi, while addressing a recent press briefing, acknowledged the constitutional right of politicians to associate freely but raised alarm that the current wave of defections was endangering Nigeria’s democratic equilibrium.
“This mass defection is gradually turning the country into a one-party state,” Zikirullahi warned. “Such a scenario diminishes the effectiveness of opposition parties, stifles political discourse, and limits the electorate’s choices.”
He cited the crisis in Rivers State, where the defection of 27 lawmakers loyal to the immediate past governor, Nyesom Wike, has plunged the state into political turmoil, creating a ripple effect that has emboldened further defections at the national level.
“This shift raises significant concerns about the health of Nigeria’s democracy and the principles of political pluralism,” Zikirullahi added.
Ganduje’s comments fuel fears of one-party dominance
Amid the wave of defections, comments by APC National Chairman, Abdullahi Ganduje, have further heightened fears of a creeping one-party agenda. Ganduje, a former Kano State governor, openly boasted that the APC was on course to becoming the only viable political platform in the country, as more opposition politicians continue to defect to the ruling party.
Ganduje’s remarks, delivered during various defection ceremonies and most recently after he and the three Kebbi senators had a meeting with President Tinubu, have been widely interpreted as a confirmation of the APC’s strategic plan to weaken the opposition ahead of 2027, consolidating its grip on the political space.
Civil society groups and pro-democracy activists have since raised the alarm over the implications of Ganduje’s comments, warning that a lopsided political environment could erode democratic competition and further stifle dissent.
Critics point out that while party-switching is a familiar feature of Nigeria’s politics, the current pattern of mass defections—coupled with the ruling party’s overt declarations—could tip the country towards de facto one-party dominance, with all its attendant risks to electoral integrity, accountability and democratic vibrancy.
Power dynamics that could boomerang on APC
Yet, beneath the euphoria of the APC’s growing influence lies the undercurrent of festering internal rivalries that could, if not carefully managed, undermine the party’s cohesion in key states. Former Jigawa State governor, Sule Lamido, is one the key proponents of this viewpoint.
Nowhere is this undercurrent more evident than in Kebbi and Delta, where the struggle for supremacy among the APC’s power blocs threatens to fracture the party from within.
In Kebbi State, the recent defection of the three PDP senators, including political heavyweight Aliero, is believed to have rekindled an old rivalry between Aliero and former Governor Atiku Bagudu, who currently serves as Minister of Budget and Economic Planning. The two leaders, both founding fathers of the APC in Kebbi, fell out during the 2022 primaries, leading Aliero to defect to the PDP and contest the senatorial seat.
While Aliero has now returned to the APC, analysts say the wounds from their bitter 2022 showdown remain fresh, with both camps still jostling for dominance. There are fears that if the national leadership fails to broker a genuine reconciliation, Kebbi APC could once again implode ahead of 2027, especially with Aliero still commanding significant grassroots loyalty across the state.
In Delta, the dynamics are even more complex. The defection of Governor Oborevwori, alongside the entire PDP structure, into the APC was seen as a political masterstroke by the ruling party. However, the move has set the stage for an intense turf war within the Delta APC, pitting Oborevwori against his former arch-rival and APC 2023 governorship candidate, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege.
Sources within the party say while both leaders may currently project a united front, their underlying mistrust and competition for the party’s control—especially in anticipation of 2027—could destabilise the APC in the state. Oborevwori’s entry into the APC has also reignited the political influence of former Governor James Ibori, a political ally of President Tinubu, who is believed to be working behind the scenes to protect his loyalists and retain relevance within the new power structure.
This three-way contest between Oborevwori, Omo-Agege and the Ibori political family has already polarised the party’s grassroots, with many warning that unless the national leadership steps in early to harmonise the interests of the various factions, the APC may suffer the same fate that befell the PDP in 2023, when its internal disunity paved the way for APC’s gains in the state.
Thus, while the APC may appear to be consolidating power at the national level, the emerging internal rivalries in strategic states like Kebbi and Delta could pose significant headaches for the party, if not carefully managed ahead of the 2027 general elections.
[DailyTrust]
The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC), the highest policy-making organ of the Central Bank of Nigeria(CBN), begins a crucial two-day meeting today with a decision on the benchmark interest rate as the main agenda.
Many analysts expect the CBN to leave the benchmark interest rate, the Monetary Policy Rate (MPR), unchanged at 27.50 per cent, in preference for a more discernible consumer price trend.
The MPC, headed by the CBN governor, traditionally provides monetary policies and benchmarks, which determine the direction of the financial services sector and the economy to a large extent.
The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) last week released its latest Consumer Price Index (CPI) report, showing that the headline inflation rate dropped by 52 basis points from 24.23 per cent in March 2025 to 23.71 per cent last month.
On a month-on-month basis, inflation also declined to 1.86 per cent in April, compared to 3.90 per cent recorded in March.
The decline in inflation rate was driven by a broad-based decrease in the prices of food items. Food inflation slowed by 53 basis points from 21.79 per cent in March 2025 to 21.26 per cent in April 2025. On a month-on-month basis, food inflation eased by 12 basis points from 2.18 per cent to 2.06 per cent.
Core inflation-which included all items excluding farm produce and energy, also declined by 105 basis points from 24.43 per cent in March 2025 to 23.39 per cent in April. On a month-on-month basis, core inflation dropped by 239 basis points from 3.73 per cent in March 2025 to 1.34 per cent last month.
Experts and sources close to the CBN said the MPC would rely on the side of caution and hold the rates and other parameters unchanged.
Analysts at Bismarck Rewane’s Financial Derivatives Company (FDC), Cordros Capital Group, Afrinvest West Africa and Arthur Steven Asset Management, among others, expect a cautious stance that would leave the MPR and all parameters unchanged.
However, analysts at Futureview said the apex bank could reduce the benchmark interest rate marginally. They expect inflationary pressure to reduce further in the next period.
Cordros Capital analysts said: “Since the last MPC meeting, the global economic landscape has grown increasingly volatile and uncertain, primarily driven by persistent trade protectionist policies in the United States.
‘’In our view, the MPC is likely to take these developments into account, particularly the elevated global uncertainty and its adverse implications for naira stability, despite a positive real rate of return, given the current inflation rate.
‘’Against this backdrop, we expect the MPC to adopt a cautious stance, leaving the Monetary Policy Rate (MPR) unchanged, alongside retaining all other policy parameters in a bid to anchor inflation expectations and maintain the naira’s attractiveness,”
The analysts said inflation risks were still tilted to the upside, particularly as the naira continues to experience gradual depreciation, reinforcing the need to anchor inflation expectations.
[TheNation]
More...
US President Donald Trump said Monday he would launch a “major investigation” into his 2024 election rival Kamala Harris over celebrities who backed her failed run for the White House.
“Candidates aren’t allowed to pay for ENDORSEMENTS, which is what Kamala did, under the guise of paying for entertainment,” he posted on his Truth Social platform.
“I am going to call for a major investigation into this matter.”
Harris sought to harness star power from celebrities such as Beyonce and Oprah Winfrey in the election race.
Winfrey defended a $1 million payment to her production company from the Harris campaign to covers costs associated with the talk show legend hosting the presidential candidate.
Harris’s team, meanwhile, denied rumours that she paid pop megastar Beyonce $10 million to appear at a rally.
The Harris campaign listed one endorsement-related expenditure for $75 in its financial reports to an environmental advocacy group.
Trump, who won the election comfortably, received scant support from the entertainment industry at large but tapped into a targeted subset of well-known, hypermasculine influencers including podcast host Joe Rogan.
The president on Monday took aim at Beyonce, Winfrey and Bruce Springsteen, accusing Harris of paying the legendary rock star to perform at a rally in Georgia weeks before the election.
“How much did Kamala Harris pay Bruce Springsteen for his poor performance during her campaign for president?” he wrote.
“Why did he accept that money if he is such a fan of hers?”
Trump last week took to Truth Social to feud with Springsteen after the star told a British concert audience that his homeland is now ruled by a “corrupt, incompetent and treasonous administration.”
In return, the 78-year-old Republican said the star, nicknamed “the Boss,” is “Highly Overrated.”
Springsteen is an outspoken liberal critic of Trump and turned out for Harris after she replaced Democratic president Joe Biden in his abandoned reelection bid.
AFP
The immediate past Deputy Speaker of the Enugu State House of Assembly, Dr. Ikechukwu Ezeugwu, has resigned from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
In a resignation letter addressed to the Chairman of his Udunedum Ward in Udenu Local Government Area of Enugu State on Sunday, Ezeugwu cited several deliberate wrongdoings by the PDP against its members, describing the party’s operations in the state as “Deceitocracy.”
“For the records, the breaking point for me was, but not limited to, the events during the build-up to the 2023 general elections. The party leadership, with their allies, driven by selfishness, arrogated to themselves the responsibility and clumsily selected candidates for the elections against the advice of well-meaning members of the party,” he stated.
Ezeugwu further lamented that “in many instances, merit was glaringly sacrificed on the altar of mediocrity, and deceit was ingloriously elevated to unimaginable proportions.” He expressed gratitude for the wisdom to reject what he described as a “Trojan Horse,” adding that he was targeted for economic suppression and political ridicule, but persevered.
He also criticized the party for sidelining many vibrant first-time members of the State House of Assembly and other political aspirants. According to him, these individuals were deceitfully encouraged to embark on countless constituency empowerment projects and campaigns, with assurances of candidacy that never materialized.
“Those who were given such opportunities were left stranded when they needed support and encouragement. Meanwhile, the party leadership was busy flirting around with candidates of other political parties vying for the highest political office at the national level,” Ezeugwu said.
He described the experience as deeply depressing, especially considering the contributions of members of the 7th Assembly of Enugu State.
“For me, trust is a fundamental aspect of any relationship, and without it, relationships can become challenging to maintain. It is pitiful, shameful, and heartbreaking that ‘Papas deceived Pikins’ who respected, trusted, and treated them as fathers. DECEITOCRACY,” Ezeugwu concluded.
[Vanguard]
Tokunbo Wahab, Lagos commissioner for environment and water resources, says the state will begin full enforcement of the ban on single-use plastics (SUPs) from July 1, 2025.
SUPs are products intended for short-term use. They are sometimes discarded after a single application.
Styrofoam is a trademarked brand of closed-cell extruded polystyrene foam (XPS) used for building insulation on walls and roofs. It is also used for production of single-use cups and plastics.
In January 2024, the Lagos government banned the use and distribution of styrofoam and other SUPs to reduce environmental pollution across the state.
The development elicited varied reactions as stakeholders and some residents berated the government for the short notice.
Providing an update on the development on Monday, Wahab, via a post on X, said the state government has been strategic with the implementation of the policy.
The commissioner said in the last 18 months, the state organised a series of stakeholder engagement sessions with marketers and producers of SUPs.
“Now it’s time to act,” he said.
“We re-emphasized this stand during a courtesy visit by management of TETRA PAK West Africa Limited led by the Managing Director, Mr. Haithem Debbiche.
“This is about environmental responsibility and we have given ample time to align with global best practices.
“What is unacceptable elsewhere cannot become standard in Lagos. We must protect our future and do what is right for the greater good.
“We’re not here to score points. We’re here to do the work. Just like with the successful enforcement of the styrofoam ban, we will insist on accountability and responsibility.”
[TheCable]
•Restructuring of security architecture, bi-camera legislature, revenue formula on agenda
•Moved from May 27, 28 to June 11, 12
More details are beginning to emerge on specifics that may dominate debate at the all-inclusive political summit being put together under the leader of The Patriots and former Secretary General of the Commonwealth, Chief Emerita Anyaoku, to fashion a workable constitutional framework for the country.
A draft proposal for discussion gleaned by the Nigerian Tribune at the weekend showed that no fewer than 34 critical items therein, barring any major adjustments subject to the final approval by the organisers. The items cover fundamental restructuring in all the layers and arms of government, as well as the security services cum architecture.
Nigerian Tribune reliably gathered that a new date has been proposed for the summit due to the 26th anniversary of Nigeria’s return to civil rule on May 29.
The summit, according to the sources, has been shifted from May 27–28 to June 11 and 12 in Abuja.
Among the other issues listed in the proposal are: provision for judicial adjudication of corruption and betrayal of trust matters, remunerations of members of the National Assembly, remunerations and compensations in the public service, electoral system, political party structures, revenue management format, security architecture, and fiscal arrangement.
Management of resources and revenue, concurrent functional responsibilities, regional border changes and disputes, as well as equal rights among federating regions, basis of state government, status of the federal capital territory (FCT), federal Executive Council, powers and functions of the President, restructuring of states based ethnic homogeneity and other items are contained in the document.
Tagged: “Issues to be presented by the Secretariat for Consideration and Ratification by the Summit, the document observed that the “2025 Summit of The Patriots affords a veritable opportunity to canvass topical issues that are prepared in advance for consideration and concurrence by delegates before departure. As many issues as are presented and accepted will serve as the basis for post-Summit advocacy and demand of action by the National Assembly.”
It noted that the 2014 National Conference was a major dialogue convened by then President Goodluck Jonathan to address critical national challenges and propose reforms, noting that, “While the conference covered a wide range of topics (e.g., governance, security, economy, and social cohesion), the principal recommendation centered on managing the subsisting 1999 Constitution and its behemoth stipulations, regarding which there is a consensus about its multifarious inadequacies.”
Two of the most striking items listed in the proposal are the setting up of a technical panel to facilitate constitutional reforms, as well as the process for the enactment of a new constitution that would be widely accepted by Nigerians.
The proposed technical panel, which is number 32 on the list of the items reads: “There shall be a Technical Panel to Facilitate Constitutional Reforms in Nigeria (TPF-CRN). The body shall be set up by the President.
“The panel will facilitate the processes towards the drafting of the Regional and then the Federal Constitutions by the people of Nigeria.
“The TPFCR shall undertake the following functions: Facilitate all processes and activities towards the enactment of a new Governance Framework for Nigeria
•Provide information and advice only that will facilitate the activities of the linguistic/ethnic nationalities, sub-nationalities as they interact and consult voluntarily towards that fashioning out of cooperative and collaborative frameworks.
•Sensitize and guide voluntary aggregation of the peoples identified in (b) above into viable socio-economic and political units, primarily based on contiguity of land territory, local resource control and self-management of governance affairs.
•Provide secretarial support to the accredited representatives of the linguistic/ethnic nationalities, sub-nationalities in their respective quests to aggregate and or disaggregate to form new regions.
•Provide advisory support to the emerging leaders of political units based on (d) to enable them work out understandings and frameworks for local governance, such as would be embodied in their articles of associations: A respective Regional Constitutions.
•Facilitate the organisation and hosting of the Convention of the bona-fide representatives of the emerged regions, being outcomes of (e) above, with the purpose of articulating the form and content of a new framework for federal governance.”
The document stated that the framework for governance shall be presented for ratification and enactment into a new Constitution for the Federation of Nigerian Nations (FNN), stressing that the “outcome shall not be abridged or tampered with in whatever form.”
It also suggested that the National Assembly shall facilitate a new federal constitution within six calendar months.
“The National Assembly shall transmit the enactment to the respective State Assemblies for passage with a simple majority vote.
“On ratification by a simple majority number of state assemblies, the new federal constitution for Nigeria shall be voted upon by all Nigerians of voting age. With a simple majority vote, the New Constitution shall be deemed to have been passed by the People of Nigeria,” it emphasised.
It noted that Nigeria was nowhere near the complexity of the Indian nation that has endured since 1947, stressing that, “If we are truly serious about solving the problem of the Nigerian question, we no longer need to view the fact of our 371 ethnic nationalities as an albatross on our quest for development. We must confront it frontally.”
Reaffirming the ethnic heterogeneity of the country, the document states: “Nigeria should be considered for operation as a 10 state-polity with as many federal territories constituted to give identity to every of the 360 residual ethnic nationalities.
“We have far less than the 2,000 ethnic nationalities of India to contend with.
“The implicit profligacy of 109 senators, 360 honourable members, 36 executive governments, 36 state assemblies, and 774 local governments bears no restarting to emphasise that the political class is merely self-serving at the expense of citizens. Nigeria is unlikely to fare well any much longer.”
[Nigerian Tribune]