THE crippling fuel shortages in Niger and the change in thinking towards development aid by the developed World are clear warnings to Africa on the urgent need to deepen regional integration, and more so for the self-proclaimed Alliance of Sahel States, AES countries, making a public show of quitting the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) at all costs.

Niger, Mali and Burkina Faso have effectively formalised their withdrawal from ECOWAS, having served notice to quit the regional economic bloc in January 2024, but the organisation in a demonstration of good faith, has allowed them a nine-month grace period until September 2025 to rejoin if they change their mind.

Last December, the Niger junta leader Abdourahamane Tchiani without any proof, went on his country’s state television to accuse Nigeria of attempts to destabilise Niger. Niger’s Foreign Minister, Bakary Yaou Sangare had also alleged that Nigerian government was complicit in a purported December 13 sabotage of the Niger-Benin oil pipeline in Gaya.

The Niger government summoned Nigeria’s Charge d’affaires in Niamey to complain.

Nigeria dismissed all the allegations as unfounded, while the ECOWAS Commission issued a public statement in defence of Nigeria.

As it turned out, and as Nigeria stated then, Tchiani was only using the playbook of the AES junta leaders - using propaganda and disinformation to divert attention from the mounting governance problems they faced.

Nigeria has no reason to destabilise its smaller neighbour, which it continues to support materially and otherwise, including in infrastructure development such as road construction, rail projects, and fuel supply at concessionary rates.

Three months on, reality has now dawned on the Tchiani-led junta. Niger has been facing unprecedented severe fuel shortages for several weeks, characterised by winding queues at the few filling stations with supply and the stifling economic activities across the land-locked country, listed by the United Nations Development Report as among the poorest in the World.

With nowhere else to go, the once arrogant Niamey junta turned to Nigeria for a bailout, but this time, without the usual publicity.

According to industry sources in Niamey and Abuja, the situation was so desperate that the Tchiani-led junta swallowed its pride and allowed a delegation led by the Chief Executive of the Niger Petroleum Company, SONIDEP to visit Abuja on an S.O.S. mission.

Following a meeting with Nigerian petroleum industry officials, which was largely unannounced “some 300 fuel trucks were approved for immediate delivery across the border to Niger,” according to the sources. The terms or details of the agreement were not available.

Industry officials in Niger blamed the severe fuel shortages on the confrontation between the junta government in Niamey and the Chinese oil companies, which have long dominated Niger’s petroleum sector.

The China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC) was said to have granted the Niger government an advance of about US$400 million in 2024, using future crude oil deliveries as collateral to help Niger cope with the lingering effects of the sanctions earlier imposed by ECOWAS following the July 2023 military coup that brought the Tchiani regime to power - the sanctions have since been lifted.

When it was time for Niger to repay the Chinese, the cash-strapped junta government was alleged to have attempted to arm-twist China, forcing the Asian country to slap billions of dollars in tax demand on the Niger Refinery Company.

The escalated crisis culminated in the expulsion of three Chinese officials working in the Niger oil sector last week.

Official sources in Niamey said the move was the latest by the military government to “assert greater control over national resources.”

In a separate development, Niger's Ministry of Tourism is reported to have revoked the licence of a Chinese-operated hotel in Niamey, citing alleged discriminatory practices.

The two countries are said to be working to avoid a break-down of relations, particularly in the critical oil sector, which has also been hit by unresolved disputes over the Niger-Benin oil pipeline, a project designed to boost Niger’s crude exports.

The military junta had failed to publicly acknowledge the gravity of the economic crisis, with the State-controlled media reportedly ordered to maintain a news blackout on the national fuel shortages and the general economic hardship. But public anxiety is mounting amid spiralling inflation, high unemployment, especially among youths, and high cost of living, with desperate motorists resorting to the costly black-market for fuel, that is where the scarce commodity was available.

Despite the AES countries’ populist and arrogant posturing to leave ECOWAS, the regional organisation has left open, diplomatic channels for negotiations and rapprochement.

Ghana’s President John Mahama recently paid visits to the military governments of the three countries, with bilateral and regional issues featuring in the discussions.

Also, as the AES region grapples with heightened jihadist attacks and regional instability, a high-level nine-man delegation from the three countries visited Nigeria recently to understudy non-kinetic approaches to combating violent extremism.

Informed sources said the visit was in recognition of a policy shift in Nigeria borne out of the realisation that military option alone cannot defeat terrorism and insurgency. A recent study showed that about 7% of terrorist groups that operated between 1968 and 2006 were militarily defeated, while more than 40% of groups ended their violence through negotiated settlements.

The AES countries, which accused ECOWAS of being under external influence, as part of the reasons for their withdrawal, have severed major ties with Paris, closed French military bases and expelled French soldiers from their territories as part of their professed assertion of sovereignty and independence.

However, all three are still members of the West African Economic and Monetary Union, UEMOA, with French affiliation. 

The French Treasury controls the national currency of the three countries, the franc CFA, fixes the exchange rate, and maintains their their bank reserves.

The junta leaders are also broadening relations with Russia and China, including military cooperation with Russia, while accusing ECOWAS of being under foreign influence.

But as the experience from the Niger fuel shortages and the cut of development aid by advanced economies have shown, regional cooperation and integration are the more realistic options for Africa’s sustained development and survival.

Speaking at the Munich Security Conference (MSC) in Germany in February, President Mahama described the USAID pullback by the President Donald Trump administration and the cut in development aid by Britain as “adversity in opportunity” for Africa. He emphasised the need for African countries to strengthen their economic resilience and reduce dependence on foreign aid.

In his address titled “Building or Burning Bridges: Economic and Development Cooperation Amid Multi-polarisation,” Mahama acknowledged the changing geopolitical dynamics. He noted that while the U.S. played a central role in shaping the post-World War II global order, its current shift could be disruptive.

In the same vein, Nigeria’s Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), recently told African leaders at the African Union headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, to consider foreign aid as a thing of the past.

She urged them to be innovative and look inwards “to uplift the lots of your people instead of looking increasingly for help from where help is drying up.” 

These teachable lessons are applicable to all African countries, especially the AES group.

It is within the rights of the AES members as sovereign nations to pursue their common interests both as Sahel States and ECOWAS members, just as similar other groups - Mano River Union, Zone of Prosperity, Conseil de l'Entente (Council of Accord or Understanding), UEMOA and the Chad Basin Authority/Commission.

Paul Ejime is a Global Affairs Analyst and Consultant on Peace & Security and Governance Communication

In 1994, Dr. Beko Ransome-Kuti, the Chairman of the Campaign for Democracy (CD) travelled to India to attend the meeting of the Commonwealth Human Rights Initiative. At the material time, he was the only African member of the international body. At about the same time, I travelled to Canada to deliver some lectures on the human rights situation in Nigeria. During my stay in Canada, I received an award on behalf of the CD.

Upon our return to Nigeria on January 14, 1995, both of us were arrested and kept at the Nigeria Immigration Service Guest House at Ikoyi, Lagos State. A combined team of State Security Service, Nigeria Intelligence Agency and Nigeria Immigration Service personnel interrogated us. We were accused of travelling out of Nigeria illegally as we did not pass through any of the official routes. 

It was further stated that we ought to have obtained security clearance since we were aware that our names were on the "watch list" compiled by the security forces. I pointed out to the interrogators that the so called watch list was discriminatory and illegal. I referred to the case of Shugaba v Minister of Interior wherein the Court of Appeal had ruled that a Nigerian citizen has the right of egress and ingress. 

At that stage, we were asked to produce and submit our passports. We flatly turned down the request on the ground that they were likely to be confiscated to prevent us from further exercising our fundamentall right to freedom of movement guaranteed by article 12 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples Rights (Ratification and Enforcement) Act. Indeed, we informed our interrogators that the passports were kept in the house of a comrade in Cotonue, Benin Republic which was our adopted route for travelling out of Nigeria. 

Our interrogators said that they had confirmed from the airports, seaports and land borders that we did not present our passports to immigration officers for stamping. We replied that that, on a daily basis, over a million Nigerian people travel in and out of Nigeria without stamping their passports in the artificial borders created by the British and French colonialists which are maintained by the neo-colonialists in power; in the member states of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). 

As the federal military regime was completely embarrased by the global demand for our release, the security forces granted us bail pending the conclusion of investigation. Our lawyer, Chief Gani Fawehinmi, stood surety for us and we were released to him. Even though we were detained for a week, we were not charged for the alleged offence of illegal travelling out of Nigeria. 

For the umpteenth time, the attention of the Senate and the security forces ought to be drawn to the case of the Speaker, Bauchi State House of Assembly v Honourable Rifkatu Danna (2017) 49 WRN 82. The respondent was the only woman in the House of Assembly of 31 members. She was suspended indefinitely for criticising the relocation of the Tafawa Balewa Local Government Area. As far as the House members were concerned, her speech was considered "derogatory". 

In setting aside her indefinite suspension from the House, the Bauchi Chief Judge held that her suspension beyond 14 days was illegal and uncomfortable. But the Court of Appeal declared that the House lacks the vires to subject her to any form of suspension from the House as it was a denial of the rights of the.people of her Bogoro Constutuency to be representated in the government.

 In the leading judgment of the Court of Appeal, Tur JCA held inter alia that the acts of the Appellants violated articles 8 and 9 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples Rights Act which guarantee the respondent'a fundamental rights to "freedom of conscience, the right to receive and disseminate information and to express opinions within the ambit of the law....Not even the military would have behaved in this dastardly manner. This is a flagrant abuse of the constitutional powers vested in the Speaker and members of the Bauchi State House of Assembly which no right thinking member of the society ought to tolerate."

Finally, it is public knowledge that the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio had accused Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of embarrassing the Government and people of the Federal Republic of Nigeria by reporting her suspension by the Senate to the Inter Parliamentary Union. 

 Contrary to the jaundiced views of the Senate leader, it is the official probe of the circumstances of her trip by security forces that will expose Nigeria to needless embarrassment and undeserved ridicule

 Therefore, the SSS and NIA may study the report of the investigation of our illegal travelling by the Sani Abacha military junta before embarking on the futile attempt to probe Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan for having the temerity to externalise the "internal affair of the Senate". In fact, the probe will particularly embarrass some top officials of the Bola Tinubu administration who were once accused of travelling out of Nigeria to embarrass the defunct military junta. 

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As we commemorate the 70th anniversary of the Nigeria Union of Journalists - NUJ from 15th March 1955 to 15th March 2025, it is imperative that we pause to acknowledge and honour our fallen colleagues, tragic victims of impunity. Every act of violence against journalists – be it intimidation, harassment, or murder – constitutes a fundamental assault on the very principles of democracy and freedom of expression that we hold dear.

As the esteemed journalist and advocate for press freedom, Anna Politkovskaya, astutely observed, “Without journalism, there are no freedoms.” The courageous pursuit of truth by journalists, alongside their unwavering commitment to exposing corruption and injustice, must not be forgotten or overlooked.

The deafening silence surrounding these appalling acts emboldens those who seek to suppress dissent and obscure the truth. Therefore, we stand resolutely in solidarity with the families of those who have lost their lives in the line of duty, and we must collectively demand justice. Our commendation also extends to the fortitude of survivors, who bear the scars of impunity yet continue their vital work.

It is crucial that we advocate for enhanced protections, accountability, and a culture of safety for journalists. Unless we confront and dismantle this culture of impunity, the future of journalism in Nigeria hangs precariously in the balance. We must remember the sacrifices made and reaffirm our unwavering commitment to upholding their legacy in the fight for truth and justice.

According to the report "State of Media Freedom in Nigeria" by the Media Foundation for West Africa and the Nigeria Union of Journalists, for the period from 2016 to 2020, Nigeria recorded some of the highest levels of violence targeting journalists. These statistics serve as an indictment of the deficient record on democracy and the rule of law in Nigeria, where a lack of transparency, corruption, and the politics of exclusion frequently culminate in frustrations and violent rivalries, creating perilous environments in which journalists become easy targets for powerful forces intent on suppressing dissent.

Acts of impunity against journalists in Nigeria manifest in diverse forms, from murder to harassment and intimidation. The following outlines some of the most concerning instances of acts of impunity perpetrated against members of the press in Nigeria:

Minere Amakiri: A reporter then for the Nigerian Observer, the former Bendel State newspaper, had his head forcibly shaved with broken glass in Port Harcourt. This was done on the orders of Alfred Diette-Spiff, the Military Governor of Rivers State. His 'offence' was reporting on the 30th of July, the Governor's 31st birthday regarding the grievances of local teachers( 1973).

Chris Okolie: Chris Okolie, the founder of the defunct New Breed magazine, frequently encountered opposition from the country’s military leaders. In 1977, following the publication of an article deemed unacceptable by the authorities, he was detained. Thousands of copies of the magazine were confiscated, and a publication ban was imposed in June 1978. After a nine-year hiatus, publication resumed.

Jonathan Ishaku: He was Editor of The Nigerian Standard in Jos, and later it’s General Manager. He was dismissed, at the instance of the Federal Military Government seven days to his wedding for the newspaper’s unrelenting criticisms of the Military President- General Ibrahim Babangida’s Administration (1985).

Dele Giwa: Dele Giwa, a prominent Nigerian journalist and founding editor of Newswatch magazine, was renowned for his incisive investigative reporting, which exposed corruption and human rights abuses during General Ibrahim Babangida's military regime. He was killed by a parcel bomb detonated at his Lagos home. It is widely believed that Giwa's murder was orchestrated by the military government. Nearly four decades later, no one has been charged or convicted for this heinous act. The shocking nature of his death resonated throughout Nigeria's media and human rights communities, marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing struggle for press freedom and democracy in the country. His legacy continues to inspire journalists and activists both in Nigeria and internationally(1986).

The Liberian Tragedy: In a stark reminder of the perilous conditions faced by journalists, four Nigerian reporters were tragically killed in Liberia in 1990 while covering the civil conflict. They were Tayo Awotunsin and Krees Imodibe of The Guardian, Sunny Taylor ( of the then Channels), and George Onyemobi (affiliation unspecified). These journalists were victims of violence inflicted by Charles Taylor's National Patriotic Front of Liberia (NPFL) forces. Their untimely deaths underscore the grave risks that reporters encounter, particularly in conflict zones, and highlight the urgent need for enhanced safety measures and protections for those who courageously report on the realities of war(1990).

The News Magazine Founders: The News magazine, established in January 1993, played a critical role in Nigeria’s struggle for democracy during the military regimes of Generals Ibrahim Babangida and Sani Abacha. The publication was spearheaded by Bayo Onanuga (Editor-in-Chief), Dapo Olorunyomi, Babafemi Ojudu, Kunle Ajibade, and Seye Kehinde. These journalists risked their safety and livelihoods to reveal the abuses and injustices of the military government. Their committed reporting and resolute editorial stance incited the ire of the authorities, leading to harassment, intimidation, and detention. Despite the considerable obstacles they faced, The News magazine remained steadfast in its commitment to truth and democracy, continuing to publish impactful stories at significant personal risk. Their bravery not only motivated others to join the fight against military rule but also contributed to the eventual transition to democracy in Nigeria(1993).

Tell Magazine Editors: Further illustrating the suppression of press freedom during Nigeria's military regime, the police raided the offices of Tell magazine and arrested Editor-in-Chief Nosa Igiebor and Editors Kola Ilori, Onome Osifo-Whiskey, and Ayo Akinkuotu, holding them for 12 days .Tell magazine was recognised for its investigative reporting, which consistently exposed the military government's abuses and excesses. The detention of its senior editors represented a blatant effort to intimidate and silence the publication, aiming to stifle press freedom in Nigeria(1993).

The Nigerian Standard 7: Emma Gogwim Kayi (twice editor), Gideon Mitu, Cyril Ogah, Harris Dawurang, Wilson Yale, Usman Abu, and Danjuma Abah resigned in protest after writing a front-page commentary entitled "This Is Our Stand" against the annulment of the 12th of June 1993 election. The commentary called upon the government to safeguard the democratic process from forces seeking to destabilise the nation. The seven were later reinstated after a year(1993).

Bunmi Aborisade: Bunmi Aborisade is a well-known Nigerian journalist, author, and activist who played a key role in the struggle surrounding the annulled 12 June 1993 presidential election. As editor of June 12 Magazine, he championed the validation of the election results. His courageous journalism led to his arrest and detention during this period. Following his release, he fled Nigeria and sought refuge in Ghana. However, the Rawlings regime expelled him, forcing him to relocate to the United States. While in exile, Aborisade continued to advocate for democracy and human rights in Nigeria, leading Nigerian Journalists in Exile and the US-based Nigeria Democratic Liberty Forum. Tragically, his mother, Emily Omope Aborisade, was attacked with acid in Ado-Ekiti in 2002 and died from her injuries in 2003. Aborisade has received numerous awards for his journalism, including the 2000 awards for Profile Writing and International News Reporting from the New York Association of Black Journalists. He has also authored several books, including "The Citizen Reporters" and "Everybody Say Ye’ Ye": An organic novel on Fela’s Communication with humour(1993).

Founding Editors of Newswatch Magazine: Ray Ekpu, Dan Agbese, and Yakubu Mohammed were arrested in connection with an article based on an interview with a retired senior military officer. The article described General Abacha’s coup as a “putsch against democracy”. They were charged with “sedition and criminal intent to cause fear and alarm to the public and disturb the public peace”. General Abacha later ordered that the charges be dropped, advising journalists to exercise “discretion and self-restraint” in future(1994).

Bagauda Kaltho: Bagauda Kaltho was imprisoned and tortured under the Abacha regime. He is believed to have been killed in detention for publishing critical reports about the government. His experience exemplifies the courage of Nigerian journalists who faced considerable dangers in their pursuit of truth during a repressive regime. Kaltho's story serves as a stark reminder of the necessity of safeguarding press freedom and advocating for human rights, both in Nigeria and beyond( 1995).

The Treason Decree: Kunle Ajibade - The News, Chris Anyanwu- Classique Magazine, George M'bah- TSM, and Ben Charles-Obi- TSM. The Treason and Treasonable Offences Decree No. 29 of 1993, enacted during Nigeria's military era, broadened the definition of treason, targeting any actions or views deemed disruptive to the nation's fabric. This decree was used to convict the four Nigerian journalists for reporting on an alleged coup plot. They were accused of being "accessories after the fact to treason" and sentenced to 15 years' imprisonment, although they were subsequently released by General Abdulsalam Abubakar following the death of General Sani Abacha. The decree, part of a broader strategy by the military government to silence dissent and stifle opposition, faced widespread condemnation from human rights organisations and press freedom advocates, who viewed it as a blatant attempt to muzzle the media and suppress criticism of the government. The case of these four journalists highlights the inherent risks media professionals faced in Nigeria during this oppressive era and underscores the vital need for press freedom and the rule of law to protect citizens' rights(1995).

Osa Director: Osa Director, the Kano Correspondent for Dateline, a sister publication of Tell magazine, was arrested after publishing a story entitled “Buhari, Abacha at war over oil money”. Director was held in solitary confinement in Kano. He was charged in Kano after 34 days in detention, appearing before the magistrate in leg irons and handcuffs. He was charged with inciting discontent by publishing “false reports” contrary to sections 416 and 418 of Nigeria’s Penal Code. He was denied bail until October 1995. When bail was granted, he was ordered to report to the State Investigation and Intelligence Bureau’s office monthly and prohibited from publishing any material that could embarrass the government(1995).

Godwin Agbroko: Godwin Agbroko, Chairman of ThisDay newspaper’s editorial board, and former editor for Newswatch and ThisWeek magazines, was arrested and briefly detained twice in 1995 for his editorial work. In December 1996, he was apprehended by State Security Service members and detained for five months. He was released shortly after receiving the PEN/Barbara Goldsmith Freedom to Write Award in 1997. He was fatally shot in his car in Lagos by unknown assailants (2006).

Ladi Olorunyomi: Ladi Olorunyomi, a staff member of The News and the wife of Dapo Olorunyomi, was arrested at her home by armed military intelligence agents. She was questioned about the whereabouts of her exiled husband and her boss, Bayo Onanuga(1997).

Tunde Oladepo: Tunde Oladepo, the Ogun State bureau chief for The Guardian, was assassinated in his home by masked gunmen. The targeted nature of the attack, carried out in front of his family, strongly suggests that his murder was related to his extensive coverage of political affairs in Ogun State(1998).

Fidelis Ikwuebe: Fidelis Ikwuebe, a freelance journalist contributing to The Guardian, was abducted and murdered while reporting on the clashes between the Aguleri and Umuleri communities in Anambra State(1999).

Ben Adaji: He was the Taraba Correspondent of The News/TEMPO magazine, who was apprehended following a manhunt for a story detailing a factional conflict in Taraba State. He was also arrested again and detained for his critical reporting (1997& 2003).

Cyril Mbah: Security Service (SSS) agents escorted Cyril Mbah, a correspondent for "The Monitor" newspaper based at Aso Rock, Nigeria's seat of government, from the presidential villa. No explanation was provided by the SSS for this action. However, it is believed to be linked to Mbah's column of 14 September, entitled "OBJ Compels Ministers to Pray", which was perceived to be critical of the president (2003).

Tunde Akinleye: The case of Tunde Akinleye provides a stark illustration of the dangers faced by journalists in Nigeria. Akinleye, a photojournalist with the Daily Independent, was brutally assaulted by 12 mobile police officers from Vice-President Atiku Abubakar's security detail in Abuja. The attack rendered Akinleye unconscious, highlighting the risks journalists encounter when reporting on sensitive issues or powerful individuals (2003).

Funmi Komolafe and Rotimi Ajayi: Funmi Komolafe, a labour editor, and Rotimi Ajayi, a reporter, both from The Vanguard newspaper, were assaulted by police officers during a protest rally in Abuja (2003).

Ogun Six: Six journalists tragically lost their lives along the Abuja-Lokoja Highway while returning from official duties with the former Governor of Ogun State, Gbenga Daniel. They were: Doyin Sokoya, Wole Adebari, Deji Onajobi, Sola Bakare, Semiu Oyetunji and Adesina Durosomo (2003).

The Plateau Eight: Eight journalists perished in a catastrophic accident while travelling in a convoy with the then Governor of Plateau State, Chief Joshua Dariye, namely: Musa Nuhu (News Agency of Nigeria, NAN), Isaac Agbo (The Nation), Judith Adama (New Nigerian), Chiwo Avre (Leadership), Emmanuel Adinoyi (African Independent Television), Reuben Emeje (Federal Information), Sudan Lar (Nigeria Television Authority), and Moses Ezulike (The Daily Champion). The accident was attributed to the poor condition of the bus tyres, which was owned by the Plateau State Government. Those who survived with various degrees of injury are Audu Ojogbane- Daily Independent, Agada Okopi - AIT, Seriki Adinoyi - ThisDay, Asile Abel - Reality Newspaper, Andrew Agbese - Daily Trust , Aminu Manu - Voice of Nigeria , Monday Goteng - NAN and Solomon Gujor of the State Information. This tragic incident highlights the risks and sacrifices made by journalists in Nigeria (2007).

Adamu Abubakar Gwarzo: A journalist with Radio France Internationale (RFI), he was detained by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Gwarzo's arrest and subsequent detention stemmed from a report he authored, which was critical of the EFCC and its then-chair, Farida Waziri . The EFCC levelled accusations of libel and cybercrime against Gwarzo; however, the detention was widely perceived as an attempt to suppress journalistic criticism(2009).

Akin Orimolade (National Life): Abducted and detained for eight days on the orders of the Bayelsa State Governor over a news article, which the Governor felt uncomfortable with (2009.)Gbenga Aruleba (African Independent Television) and Rotimi Durojaiye (Independent newspaper). The two journalists, were held by the State Security Service and faced up to two years' imprisonment if convicted. They were detained over a report concerning a presidential aircraft (2009).

Bayo Ohu: He was an assistant news editor with The Guardian, who was brutally murdered at his Lagos home. He was shot by assailants who gained entry by knocking on his door. While a laptop and cell phone were taken, the prevailing belief among his colleagues and family was that he was targeted for his investigative reporting, particularly his work on alleged fraud within the Nigerian Customs Service. This sensitive investigation likely placed him in the crosshairs of powerful individuals. The subsequent police investigation and trial were heavily criticised for their perceived shortcomings. In May 2012, three suspects were acquitted due to insufficient evidence, leaving Ohu's murder unsolved and further eroding public trust in the justice system. The case highlighted the dangers faced by journalists investigating corruption and the persistent issue of impunity(2009).

Lagos Journalists Abducted: Four journalists from the Lagos State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) were abducted by armed men in Abia State. They were: Wahab Oba, Chairman , Adolphus Okonkwo, Zonal Secretary, Sylvester Okereke, Secretary , Sola Oyeyipo,Lagos-based journalist and Azeez Abdul Rauf, the driver. They were seized on their return journey from a union conference in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. The conference had focused on matters pertaining to the state of the union, with particular emphasis on the safety and security of journalists. They were held captive for five days(2010). Nathan S. Dabak, deputy editor, and Sunday Gyang Bwede, a reporter for the Church of Christ in Nations(COCIN) monthly newspaper, The Light Bearer were brutally murdered in Jos, Plateau State. They were on assignment, attempting to interview a national Parliamentarian regarding the escalating violence between Muslim and Christian communities. While traveling by motorcycle, they were attacked and fatally stabbed by a militia group. Jos had become a battleground for sectarian conflict, and the journalists' deaths underscored the extreme risks faced by those reporting from the region. The violence in Plateau state created a hostile environment for journalism, making it extremely dangerous to report the facts (2010).

Lemmy Ugbegbe (The Guardian): Handcuffed and threatened by a Magistrate, Zainab Bashir in Abuja , who had insulted and ordered journalists out of her court, after which she singled out Ughegbe for arrest for allegedly not moving out immediately. She consequently ordered her police orderly to handcuff Lemmy Ughegbe and ruled that he be committed to prison. It took the intervention of some lawyers to make her have a change of heart (2010).

Muhammad Abdulkadir (NTA Abuja): Endured numerous near-fatal encounters as a defence correspondent embedded with troops in counter-terrorism operations in the North East (2010-2016).

Lawal Ogienagbo, Dapo Olufade, Yusuf Alli, Yomi Odunuga (The Nation): These Journalists were arrested and detained over a cover story concerning a letter from former President Obasanjo to the then President, Goodluck Jonathan( 2011). Zakariya Isa, a reporter and cameraman for NTA Maiduguri was killed in Maiduguri, Borno State. Boko Haram claimed responsibility for his murder, alleging that he was "spying" for Nigerian security forces. Isa's death occurred during the height of the Boko Haram insurgency, a period of extreme violence and instability in northeastern Nigeria. The group's statement served as a chilling reminder of the dangers faced by journalists reporting on the conflict, where they were often caught between warring factions. His death added to the growing list of journalists killed by the terrorist organisation(2011).

Desmond Utomwem (FreshNEWS/CABSOJA): He was assaulted by the police and Staff of GTB Abuja. He then sought redress in Court in Abuja and was awarded the largest legal settlement in a Nigerian journalist case (N100 million) for that incident, with the court ruling police violated his human rights. Again the Police CID in Area 10 Garki, Abuja, arrested and detained Desmond , at the instance of a then serving Customs officer, Inspector Umaru Faru. Desmond was working on a story which allegedly was critical of the said officer. He was released following the intervention of the then Police AIG Usman Shehu who received a complaint from the NUJ. The Union demanded for a thorough investigation by the customs of the alleged corruption by Umaru Faru, but to no effect( 2009&2017).

Enenche Akogwu: Enenche Akogwu, a journalist with Channels Television, was tragically killed during a terrorist attack amidst a Boko Haram offensive in Kano. This account underscores the ongoing sacrifice of journalists committed to uncovering the truth, even when confronting formidable challenges(2012).

Lagos/Ibadan Disaster: Three officials from the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) were killed in a tragic road traffic accident. The incident, which also resulted in ten injuries, took place on the Ilesha-Ibadan Expressway. A blow-out on the rear tyre of the bus transporting the journalists to Ibadan and Lagos caused the vehicle to veer off the road and overturn multiple times before coming to a halt in the bushes. This heartbreaking incident shocked the nation as the journalists were returning from a meeting at the Union's National Secretariat in Abuja, where discussions had centred on journalists' welfare. The deceased were: Adolphous Okonkwo of VON and the National Financial Secretary of the Union, Olatunde Ojenike of FRCN and Chairman of FRCN Ibadan Network Centre Chapel and Kafayat Odunsi of the NTA Channel 7 Lagos. Nine other journalists and the bus driver survived the crash, with various degrees of injuries. They included : Abdulkareem Fatimah, National Treasurer of the NUJ, Deji Elumoye, Chairman of Lagos State Council and staff of ThisDay newspaper, Gbenga Opadotun, Chairman of Oyo State Council and staff of the Nigerian Tribune, Silva Okereke, Secretary of Lagos State Council and staff of the Champion newspaper, Bimbo Oyetunde, Chairperson of FRCN Lagos Network Centre Chapel, Momoh Adamson of Voice of Nigeria Lagos, Banji Oluwalana of NTA, Victoria Island Lagos, Uzogbu Christopher of Voice of Nigeria Lagos and Bolaji Akeem of NTA, Channel 7 Lagos(2013).

Ebere Wabara: An Associate Editor with The Sun newspaper, he was arrested by the police from Abia State who stormed his house in Lagos and abducted him to Umuahia, Abia State. He was held, then released on bail after the Inspector General of Police intervened. Wabara was ordered to report back to Abia police. He was arrested based on a petition against him, claimed the police. Colleagues believed he was arrested and detained at the instance of Abia State Governor who was not comfortable with Ebere’s writings (2014).

Ubale Musa: He was the Correspondent of Deutche Welle Radio attached to the State House Abuja whose accreditation was withdrawn. Ubale was expelled from the State House for asking the visiting Chadian President,Idris Derby a question on the relationship between the Multinational Joint Task Force fighting Boko Haram and South African mercenaries fighting with the Force(2015).

Yomi Olomofe: The Executive Director and Chairman of the Editorial Board of Badagry Times, was brutally beaten and left for dead by customs-assisted smugglers for daring to investigate a story. This grievous incident occurred within the premises of the Nigeria Customs at Seme Border Command(2015).

Chizoba Ogbeche (Blueprint): Manhandled and detained for her report at the Police Force Headquarters and Garki Police Station Abuja (2016).

Friday Ogungemi (Policy and Law Magazine): Arrested and detained by the State Security Service at the instance of the Kogi State Governor over an editorial(2016).

Charles Otu: The Publisher of Peoples CONSCIENCE Newspaper in Abakaliki, was violently attacked by thugs allegedly sponsored by certain agents of the Ebonyi State Government. He was later rescued from Kpirikpiri Police Station in Abakaliki by sympathisers, where he had been abandoned by his attackers and falsely accused of mischief. Otu had thereafter received multiple threats from thugs and government agents( 2017).

Luka Binniyat: He faced arrest and detention in Kaduna over a piece he wrote in the Vanguard Newspaper which did not go down well with the Kaduna State Government . He was subjected to stringent bail conditions by the court and remained incarcerated for 83 days until those conditions were relaxed by the Court (2017).

Emmanuel Ogbeche ( Editor, Abuja Inquirer): He was physically attacked and arrested following the publication of a story deemed detrimental by a lawyer (2017).

Ikechukwu Ibe (Daily Trust): He was attacked and had his camera seized by an army captain in Abuja for daring to take pictures (2017).

Jacob Onjewu (New Nigerian): Assaulted by soldiers while covering a polo tournament in Kaduna, (2017).

Lawal Mohammed (NTA Kaduna): Beaten and his camera damaged by political thugs at the NUJ Press Centre, Kaduna, during a Press Conference (2017).

Emmanuel Antswen (NAN): Arrested and detained at the behest of the Benue State Commissioner of Water Resources over a report on Internally Displaced Persons- IDPs, in Makurdi (2017).

Sunday Nwakanma (Daily Times), Chidi Asonye (Authority), Boniface Okoro (Oracle Today): Attacked by soldiers for covering military operations during Operation Python Dance in Umuahia, Abia State (2017 ).

Moses John Akwashi (Blueprint): Detained by police (2007), assaulted by security operatives (2008), and detained again for taking photos of a police raid (2017).

Midat Joseph (Leadership/kakaakireporters.com): Arrested at the instance of Kaduna State Government and detained over alleged comments on a WhatsApp group and taken to court but case dismissed due to lack of diligent prosecution (2017).

Olalekan Adetayo (The Punch): Expelled from the State House Abuja for reporting on President Buhari's health, (2017).

Dapo Olorunyomi, Evelyn Okakwu (Premium Times): They were arrested by police the following a complaint from the Chief of Army Staff, Tukur Buratai. This action came after PREMIUM TIMES refused the army's demand to retract articles concerning the Army and its operations (2017).

Adebola Brookslyn Sunday (NTA): Attacked by a religious group while covering a protest in Abuja, (2018).

Samuel Ogundipe (Premium Times): Harassed and arraigned by police in Abuja over a news article, (2019).

Jones Abiri: The Editor and Publisher of the Weekly Source newspaper, was re-arrested by armed men while meeting with six colleagues at the Bayelsa Federated Newspaper Publishers Association, Yenogoa. Abiri had previously endured two years of detention without trial by the Department of State Services (DSS), facing allegations of connections to rebels in the Niger Delta and claims of threatening oil companies(2019).

Obinna Don Norman: The Publisher of Realm News was arrested and detained in prison on the orders of a Magistrate. Don Norman was charged in Umuahia Under the 2015 Cybercrime act. He was alleged to have defamed and harassed Senator Theodore Orji (2019).

Agba Jalingo, the publisher of CrossRiverWatch, was arrested over a report alleging the diversion of N500 million belonging to Cross River State by Governor Ben Ayade. The Cross River State government had taken over the prosecution of Jalingo's case from the police. He was granted bail after spending an arduous 174 days in detention across both police custody and Calabar prison ( 2019).

Precious Owolabi: He was a reporter with Channels Television, who was killed while covering a protest by members of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN). The peaceful demonstration demanding the release of their leader, Sheik Ibrahim El-Zakzaky, turned violent, prompting the police to open fire indiscriminately. Tragically, Owolabi succumbed to bullet wounds sustained during the protest. The identity of the individual who fired the fatal shots remains uncertain ( 2019).

Pelumi Onifade: He was a 20 year old Trainee Journalist with Gboah TV, an online broadcast platform who was found dead in a morgue in Lagos, six days after being shot during a protest he was covering in Lagos. Those responsible for his death have never been identified( 2020 ).

Alex Ogbu: A reporter with Regent African Times, he was struck and killed by a stray bullet fired by police during a clash between the Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN), and the police in Abuja( 2020).

Jaafar Jaafar: The editor of the Daily Nigerian, Jaafar Jaafar, fled Nigeria after publishing a video allegedly showing Kano State Governor Abdullahi Ganduje accepting bribes. He relocated to the United Kingdom due to reported threats to his life (2021).

Adekola Bamgbala: Bamgbala, a street photographer, was detained for eight months following a fatal incident during a joint operation with the Lagos State Traffic Management Agency (LASTMA). Despite having no involvement, he was arrested after a traffic stop resulted in a driver’s death. The NUJ Lagos Council provided legal and financial support, securing his release (2022).

Gabriel Idibia (Daybreak Newspapers): Idibia was arrested and charged with defamation, intimidation, and inciting religious contempt over a report on the Kaduna Hajj camp. He was later granted bail.
Additionally police officers in Kaduna, arrested Gabriel Idibia, while he was photographing officers herding cattle across a road(2023 & 2024).

Godwin Tsa (The Sun): Tsa was arrested by Federal Capital Territory Administration security officers while reporting on a protest against shop demolitions in Abuja. He was detained, his phone was seized, and he was coerced into deleting protest footage. The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) FCT Council secured his release ( 2023 ).

Tayo Ikujunni (News Agency of Nigeria): An Assistant Editor-in-Chief, Ikujunni was physically assaulted by Ondo State Commissioner for Youths and Sports Development, Saka Yusuf Ogunleye, while covering the APC governorship primary. At Eji-Oba High School, Yusuf Ogunleye punched Ikujunni, seized and discarded his mobile phone, and ordered thugs to confiscate his tablet after Ikujunni enquired about electoral materials. Yusuf Ogunleye verbally abused Ikujunni, before security personnel intervened(2024).

Jide Oyekunle: A Photojournalist with the Daily Independent newspaper, and Kayode Jaiyeola, a Photojournalist with Punch newspaper, were arrested in Abuja by Police as they covered protests (2024).
The Enduring Legacy of Valiant Journalists:

These accounts, while not comprehensive, underscore the profound sacrifices made in the tireless pursuit of truth and justice. As we commemorate those journalists tragically lost in the course of their duties, and those who have endured various forms of impunity, we must reaffirm our unwavering commitment to safeguarding press freedom.
It is imperative that we pursue accountability for those who perpetrate violence against journalists. Only through dedicated and persistent endeavours can we truly honour the legacy of our fallen colleagues, ensuring their sacrifices serve a meaningful purpose. The Nigeria Union of Journalists must resolutely uphold its mission to defend journalists and champion the fundamental principles of a free and independent press.

Let us unite, inspired by their fortitude, as we strive towards a future where equity prevails and truth is vigorously protected. As we mark this pivotal milestone in the NUJ's history, let it serve as a rallying call for all stakeholders in Nigeria—journalists, media organisations, civil society, and the government—to pledge to safeguard journalists' rights, ensure their safety, and foster an environment conducive to free expression and responsible reporting. Through concerted action, we can pave the way for a more just and equitable Nigeria, where the pursuit of truth is recognised as a fundamental right for all citizens. This is a salute to men and women of courage.

Shu'aibu Usman Leman,
National Secretary,
Nigeria Union of Journalists,
November 2002 – April 2024

Kogi Central Senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has provided a detailed account of how she successfully attended the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) meeting in New York, despite not being officially nominated by the Nigerian government.

In an exclusive interview with PREMIUM TIMES on Sunday, Mrs Akpoti-Uduaghan explained that she registered for the meeting online as a senator and secured her accreditation because she was already on IPU’s mailing list as a past attendee.

The senator noted that she personally funded her trip to the global parliamentary gathering after receiving approval to attend.

“I registered online as a senator. The suspension does not remove my legitimacy as a senator. I registered online and got a pass. I attended the same programme last year and was already on the mailing list. After I got a pass, I bought my own ticket and funded my trip and participation at the event,” she told PREMIUM TIMES.

This is not her first attendance at an IPU event. She accompanied the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, to the 148th IPU General Assembly in Geneva, Switzerland in March, 2024 as part of Nigeria’s official delegation.

Cross-River South Senator, Ekpenyong Asuquo, and the Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, were also part of the delegation.

During the assembly, Mr Akpabio, called for a humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza and the unconditional release of all hostages. He also called for access to humanitarian aid for victims of the war conflict zone.

Clarifying her mode of access, Mrs Akpoti-Uduaghan explained that she attended the recent IPU event through her past participation in a meeting organised by the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW). Her presence at an IPU event in Geneva in 2024 as part of Nigeria’s delegation also helped, she said.

She added that the IPU event is not exclusive to government officials but also open to individuals and civil society organisations as well.

Mrs Akpoti-Uduaghan clarified that she travelled to New York with a visa on her ordinary Nigerian passport and not with an official passport.

Legitimacy of her attendance despite suspension

Mrs Akpoti-Uduaghan described her suspension from the Senate as illegal, saying that did not, however, take away her legitimacy as an elected senator.

However, her six-month suspension explicitly prohibits her from identifying herself as a senator, both locally and internationally, during the suspension period.

Despite this restriction, she insisted that she attended the IPU meeting in her official capacity and spoke as a legitimate representative of her people.

Alleged plans to arrest her

During the interview, Mrs Akpoti-Uduaghan also alleged that plans are underway to arrest her upon her return to Nigeria.

“… I’m aware there are plans underway to have me arrested as soon as I arrive Abuja,” she said.

“The Senate President Akpabio sent three staff headed by the Chargè D’Affairs of the Nigerian embassy in New York to evacuate me from the United Nations premises right after my speech. I was rescued by parliamentarians from other countries and the security.”

The senate president could not be reached for comment. His spokesperson, Eseme Eyiboh, has yet to respond to multiple telephone calls made to him by this reporter. His response to a text message sent to him is still being awaited.

Meanwhile, the telephone number of the Senate’s spokesperson, Yemi Adaramodu, was not reachable Sunday morning.

Nigeria launches probe into her participation at the IPU meeting

Mrs Akpoti-Uduaghan’s attendance at the IPU meeting has triggered a government investigation.

PREMIUM TIMES had earlier reported that Nigeria’s internal and external intelligence agencies have launched a probe into how she gained access to the meeting without official nomination.

A high-ranking administration official and two top security officials involved in the inquiry confided in PREMIUM TIMES that the State Security Service (SSS) and the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), are working to determine how Mrs Akpoti-Uduaghan attended the international meeting without approval, who facilitated her trip and accreditation, and whether her participation was orchestrated by interest groups to embarrass Nigeria, its government and its people.

Nigeria believes Mrs Akpoti-Uduaghan did not follow the required diplomatic protocols before gaining access to the IPU meeting on 11 March, where she addressed her suspension from the Nigerian Senate, alleging that it was politically motivated to silence her for speaking out against misconduct in the legislative chamber.

Additionally, she raised allegations of sexual harassment against the senate president.

[premiumtimesng]

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has decried bastardization of Nigeria’s traditional institution, saying there are criminals, drug addicts, vagabonds, bandits and kidnappers occupying several royal thrones as monarchs across the country.

Obasanjo said this in one his two books released recently to mark his 88th birthday.

The book is titled “Nigeria: Past and Future.”

In chapter 14 of his new book, the former President lamented that the dignity, honour and distinction associated with Nigeria’s traditional institution in the colonial days and early post-independence days, have been “diluted and polluted.”

Obasanjo said, “Today, there are criminals, drug addicts, vagabonds, bandits and kidnappers as so-called traditional rulers.

“This is a great pity, and it has greatly contributed to the problems of Nigeria by traditional rulers. How do we account for a traditional ruler snatching a ballot box at an election polling station and running away with it?

“The class of traditional rulers with their distinction, honour and dignity, as we knew them in the colonial days and early post-independence days, has been diluted and polluted.

“That dignity, aura and respect should be brought back and traditional rulers should be an asset to Nigeria’s development and greatness and not a liability.

“There is a need for moral re-armament among the traditional rulers – the ancient and historic ones. And they can and should make meaningful contributions to the Nigeria of our dreams that will serve the purpose and interest of all.”

Obasanjo also warned that Nigeria may experience violent change of power if the country continues in the current trajectory of maladministration.

He said the country is blessed with talented and hardworking youths, but the young population is disenchanted with the mismanagement of the nation’s commonwealth, large-scale corruption, and leadership ineptitude.

He said “Current trends on the continent portray a more assertive, younger population, intolerant of abuses of power and in search of the dividends of good governance, such that whether or not we accept it, an inevitable shake-up is in the offing.

“In what manner that happens is left for the current operatives of government to decide or fashion out. That is why my clarion call for a domesticated system of governance that reflects our temperament, context, content, culture, and exigencies is urgent.

“We are currently sitting on a ticking time bomb partly because of the system we practise, how corruptly we practise it, and how exclusively we practise it with impunity, callousness, brazen outrage and total disregard for any element of righteousness, integrity, accountability, sensitivity, compassion, inclusiveness and the fear of God.

“If the incumbent leaders do not shape up and satisfy the yearnings and demands of their people, especially the youths, who are disappointed, dissatisfied, bitter, hungry, angry, unemployed and unempowered, then the future is indeed very bleak, with no light at the end of the tunnel.

“These young people watch helplessly as their leaders tell them blatant lies unabashedly, while continuing their orgies of vulgar and ostentatious lifestyles rather than investing the money from the nation’s commonwealth in SMEs to create jobs and generate wealth.

“Should we have the misfortune of pushing these young people to the point of crossing the Rubicon, the country will pay a very high cost because a chain of events will be unleashed, the end of which no one can predict.

“We have no better time for change than now before change is forced upon us. It was JF Kennedy, former president of the United States of America, who, in 1962, said that those who make peaceful change impossible will make violent change inevitable. I am not calling for violent change, but it will become a reality if we continue on the present trajectory.

“Let us set aside lies, illusions, delusions, dishonesty and scapegoatism. Let us face reality and deal sincerely with ourselves, among ourselves, by ourselves and for ourselves.

“Sadly, for Africa, this grave and worrying concern is not just a Nigerian phenomenon but an entire African malady.

“It is now in its autumn of incubation, and if it does not receive serious attention, it will metamorphose into a destructive pandemic in its winter and spread across the continent.

“To ignore the warning and the writing on the wall is to continue to dance slow foxtrot while our trousers are burning. The day of reckoning may not be too far, but like the Biblical second coming of Jesus Christ, who can tell when that will happen?”

[DailyTrust]

A former appointee of President Bola Tinubu and political analyst, Mahmud Jega, has said that Rivers State Chief Judge, Simeon Amadi, is the obstacle before the state House of Assembly in the plot to impeach Governor Siminalayi Fubara.

Jega said this on Arise Television while analysing the political crisis rocking Rivers State and the involvement of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Nyesome Wike.

He noted that the lawmakers loyal to the FCT Minister were setting traps for the Governor, looking for a tangible reason to commence impeachment processes.

Recall that Wike on Saturday said he has no plan to stop members of the Rivers State House of Assembly from performing their constitutional duties.

DAILY POST can report that part of the legislative functions of the Assembly is to impeach the governor if he is found wanting.

The lawmakers, about 27 of them, have been at loggerheads with Governor Fubara as they try to maintain their loyalty to the FCT minister.

The lawmakers led by Martin Amaewhule recently obtained victory at the Supreme Court, which ordered that they should resume their legislative duties.

The governor was also ordered to re-present the 2025 budget to the full House of the Assembly and reconduct the local council elections.

When he arrived at the state assembly re-present the budget on Thursday, he was locked out by the lawmakers on the ground that they were not adequately informed of his visit.

There are speculations about the majority lawmakers plotting the governor’s impeachment.

“The Rivers State assembly members are loyal to Wike and bent on impeaching Fubara,” Jega said.

“The assembly members are setting traps for Governor Fubara to commit an impeachable offense.

“Their only obstacle is the chief judge of Rivers, who they are now going after,” he added.

DAILY POST also reported that the Rivers State House of Assembly had set plans in motion to investigate the state Chief Judge, Justice Simeon Amadi, for alleged falsification of age.

[DailyPost]

As the Premier League season reaches its climax, all eyes will be on the highly anticipated showdown between Arsenal and Chelsea — a match that would have major implications for the title race. 

Both teams have been in impressive form this season, and with only a handful of fixtures left, every point matters in the battle for Premier League supremacy. Here’s a detailed look at the key factors surrounding this high-stakes encounter:  

Title race implications 

Arsenal and Chelsea are both firmly in the mix for the Premier League title, with Manchester City also lurking close behind. Arsenal, seeking their first league title since the “Invincibles” season in 2003–04, have shown remarkable consistency under Mikel Arteta. 

Chelsea, rejuvenated under new management, have mounted an unexpected challenge after a rocky start to the campaign. A win for either side could tilt the balance of the title race, while a draw would open the door for Manchester City to close the gap.  

Head-to-head record 

Recent meetings between Arsenal and Chelsea have produced mixed results. Arsenal have enjoyed an edge in recent years, winning four of their last five Premier League meetings against Chelsea, including a convincing 3–1 victory earlier in the season at Stamford Bridge. 

However, Chelsea’s form has improved dramatically since then, with a more balanced squad and tactical stability under their new manager.  

Key players to watch

Ethan Nwaneri (Arsenal) : Ethan Nwaneri has impressed for Arsenal this season, scoring five Premier League goals and shining in the Champions League with a key goal against PSV. Troy Deeney has backed him for an England senior call-up, while Martin Keown has advised managing his workload carefully due to his young age.

Declan Rice (Arsenal): The summer signing has added steel to Arsenal’s midfield, combining defensive solidity with forward thrust. His ability to control the tempo of the game could be pivotal.  

Cole Palmer (Chelsea): Palmer has been a revelation for Chelsea this season, delivering key goals and assists. His movement and ability to find space between the lines make him a difficult player to mark.  

Enzo Fernández (Chelsea): The Argentine playmaker has grown in influence, dictating Chelsea’s play with his vision and passing range. His duel with Rice in midfield could determine the flow of the game.  

Tactical battle

Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal have built their success on a well-organized defense and a fluid attacking system. Their high press and quick transitions have troubled many teams this season.

Chelsea, under their new manager, have adopted a more compact defensive shape while relying on quick counterattacks and creative play from the midfield. 

The tactical battle between Arteta and his Chelsea counterpart will be fascinating, with both managers expected to adjust their approach based on the flow of the game.  

Injury concerns and squad depth 

Both teams have managed injuries throughout the season, but Arsenal’s squad depth has been a key strength. Gabriel Jesus and Oleksandr Zinchenko have recently returned to fitness, giving Arteta more options. Chelsea have also welcomed back key players, though concerns remain over the fitness of Reece James and Christopher Nkunku. Squad rotation and the ability to call upon game-changers from the bench could play a crucial role in deciding the outcome.  

Mental strength and pressure

Arsenal’s young squad showed signs of nerves in last season’s title race, ultimately falling short to Manchester City. This season, they appear more mature and composed, but the pressure of a title run-in is always intense.

Chelsea, despite being relative outsiders in the title race, have the experience of winning major trophies — a factor that could work in their favor in the closing stages of the season.  

What’s at stake

A win for Arsenal would keep them on course for their first league title in two decades, reinforcing Arteta’s project and marking a return to the top of English football. For Chelsea, a win would not only keep their title hopes alive but also serve as a statement of intent under their new leadership. A draw, meanwhile, would likely benefit Manchester City, who remain in striking distance of both teams.  

Conclusion

With so much on the line, the Arsenal vs. Chelsea clash promises to be a tense and thrilling encounter. Both teams have the quality to win, and the outcome could have far-reaching consequences for the Premier League title race. Fans can expect a high-intensity battle, with moments of brilliance and drama likely to define the contest.

Kick Off

2:00pm 

Predicted Arsenal XI to face Chelsea

Raya, Timber, Gabriel, Saliba, Lewis-Skelly, Odegaard, Partey, Rice, Nwaneri, Merino, Martinelli

Predicted Chelsea XI to face Arsenal

Jorgensen, James, Fofana, Colwill, Cucurella, Fernandez, Caicedo, Sancho, Palmer, Nkunku, Neto

Bet Predictions 

Over 1.5goals 

[TheNation]

Cardano (ADA) investors who invested in 2020 experienced lower than anticipated lucrative returns in the market. Some early supporters of Cardano now face frustration due to the project’s slow implementation of research-based development which represents major progress while delaying large market returns.

The newly formed token Remittix which sold close to 520 million tokens for $0.0734 has gained widespread attention for its speed to generate significant profits while experts predict an 18x growth within seven months of its launch.

Cardano’s Slow and Steady Path

Cardano attracted investors because of its methodical approach to major software updates which followed scientific discipline. The roadmap executes a slow yet efficient process which achieves excellent reliability alongside robust functionality yet frustrates those investors desiring rapid price increases.

The price appreciation of Cardano since its initial launch has not reached the peak expectations of 2020 investors. The expectations of institutional investors supporting ADA remain strong for the future yet proposed ETF listings encounter regulatory obstacles which decrease present-day market enthusiasm.

Research indicates that Cardano has built a secure network through its deliberate development process although its method slows down the price volatility that characterizes modern cryptocurrencies. ADA token investors from 2020 are probably unhappy because the token has grown only moderately while missing out on the dramatic price rallies characteristic of other crypto initiatives.

Remittix: An 18x Opportunity?

Remittix has emerged as a game-changer that breaks the long-term wait period for crucial catalysts which Cardano investors have been anticipating. The PayFi payment solutions platform helped Remittix establish a presale funding total of close to $13.9 million by selling nearly 520 million tokens at a price of $0.0734 each.

The crypto to standard money format currency exchange features of Remittix attract users because they eliminate complex obstacles that deter potential users from utilizing the platform. The seven-month period of successful partnerships and exchange listings will enable Remittix tokens to generate an 18x return on investment opportunity starting from their current price point according to advocates.

This bullish outlook hinges on Remittix’s practicality. The basic architecture of this altcoin creates opportunities through which merchants and freelancers together with cross-border deal users can connect with its features. Practical adoption of Remittix tokens extends to varied people in a brief time period because of this specific situation.

Market sentiment combined with limited use could decrease predicted growth projections even though the same token does not equate to success. Numerous investors expressed their commitment to Remittix through its successful pre-sale because it addresses fundamental financial requirements.

Comparing Both Options

Cardano maintains a stable development pace and grows a supportive community so it should gain enhanced long-term value through institutional deals. When investors must wait for returns from their investment funds this time delay creates frustration due to their need for immediate financial returns.

Quick adoption of Remittix depends on the successful implementation of regulatory frameworks and Point Of Sale integrations to take advantage of its direct payment system. Remittix demonstrates better pricing potential than ADA because it maintains different operating models where measured development contrasts with user-first speed.

Final Thoughts

Since 2020 Cardano’s price has shown moderate growth which has discouraged investors who joined early on. The execution of Remittix stands ready to realize fast price increases beyond its upcoming development targets. During these seven months a significant price rise has surfaced to show that practical cryptocurrency applications normally boost market enthusiasm.

Investors should consider the ongoing development with authentic community support to achieve success because these coins always carry significant investment risks. Investors must analyze how long they can wait for gains and how much risk they will take to decide whether instant growth from Remittix would be a better choice than waiting for Cardano’s future success.

[Punch]

Chinese internet search giant Baidu released a new artificial intelligence reasoning model Sunday and made its AI chatbot services free to consumers as ferocious competition grips the sector.

Technology companies in China have been scrambling to release improved AI platforms since start-up DeepSeek shocked its rivals with its open source and highly cost-efficient model in January.

In a post on WeChat, Baidu announced the launch of its latest X1 reasoning model — which the company claims performs similarly to DeepSeek’s but for lower cost — and a new foundation model, Ernie 4.5.

Baidu also made its AI chatbot Ernie Bot free for individual users more than two weeks ahead of schedule. Previously, users had to pay a subscription to access the company’s latest AI models via Ernie Bot.

Ernie 4.5 “outperforms” US-based OpenAI’s GPT-4.5 model in “multiple benchmarks”, while Ernie X1 features “enhanced capabilities in understanding, planning, reflection, and evolution”, Baidu said.

The Beijing-based company was one of China’s first to roll out a generative AI platform publicly, in 2023, but rival chatbots from companies such as TikTok owner ByteDance and Moonshot AI have since gained more users.

Baidu faces stiff competition in the consumer-facing AI sector where startup DeepSeek shook up the industry at home and abroad with a model that performed comparably to competitors such as US-made ChatGPT, but cost much less to develop.

Since then, Chinese companies and local government agencies have rushed to incorporate DeepSeek’s open-source model into their work, while other technology companies have been playing catch-up.

Baidu itself has integrated DeepSeek’s R1 reasoning model into its search engine.

In February, WeChat owner Tencent released a new AI model that it claimed answers queries faster than DeepSeek, even as it incorporated its rival’s technology into its messaging platform.

The same month, Alibaba, which has partnered with Apple to develop AI for the US company’s phones in China, said it would invest 380 billion yuan ($52 billion) in AI and cloud computing over the next three years.

Alibaba this month also released a new version of its AI assistant app powered by its open-source Qwen reasoning model.

Baidu has also announced plans to follow DeepSeek’s lead by making its Ernie AI models open-source from June 30.

[Vanguard News]

“Every generation must, out of relative obscurity, discover its mission, fulfill it, or betray it.” — Frantz Fanon

On February 26, 2010, Chude Jideonwo sent an email titled “Where is the outrage?” about the state of the nation to a few people. 

If the present government realises that it can do anything and get away with it, then we are doomed.

But how can we be doomed when we actually have the power to make our voices heard? At The Future Awards 2010, many young people heard clearly when the Keynote Speaker, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, said, “In Nigeria, generation Y, 70% of our population of 105 million is under 30 years old.” We are in the majority. We have the power to actually make change happen. So what is our excuse? What will we tell our children – that we lay down and took whatever they hit us with?

No.

…………….

Listen guys, whatever industry we work in, no matter how much money we have, if Nigeria becomes a failed state, we will all suffer! We all have a stake in this! We will be unable to drive our flashy cars and have the great events and do fine dinners if we have no country!

This rally will be the first phase. Other things will come up later. But this one we have to do first. This is the one we need you for. This is one we have to make a statement with.

This is our country; our duty; our future.

I wasn’t one of the recipients, but the actions that followed that email would change the course of my life. Chude was 24 years old at the time and he couldn’t understand why young people were spending time on social media while Wole Soyinka, Femi Falana, and Tunde Bakare, under the banner of the “Save Nigeria Group (SNG),” were on the streets protesting a future that was less about them. President Yar’adua was MIA, there were killings in Jos, there was no electricity, and fuel scarcity had returned.

In 18 days, with heavy lifting from Adebola Williams, Chioma Chuka and a few others, the #EnoughIsEnough protest was organised to the national assembly in Abuja on March 16, 2010. The day was incidentally Chude’s 25th birthday. Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde, Waje, Dele Momodu, Stella Damasus, Audu Maikori, Omawumi, Charly Boy and Efe Omoregbe (2Face/2Baba’s Manager) were some of the pop culture icons that participated in the protest. I was invited to join the protests by my friend, Bisola Edun, and it sounded like good fun! Another protest followed in Lagos on April 13th. The #EnoughIsEnough protests in Abuja and Lagos led to the birth of Enough is Enough Nigeria, aka EiE Nigeria, aka EiE! I have now led EiE for fourteen years.

In October 2020, young Nigerians were frustrated with the Nigeria Police Force, especially the SARS Unit that harassed youth with tech gadgets and unconventional hairstyles, tagging them as fraudsters. An incident in Benin triggered the #EndSARS protests that would see a reincarnation of young Nigerians across all strata —  entrepreneurs, professionals, pop culture icons  — lend their voices, resources and time to express their frustration via street protests. The protests in Lagos, the epicentre were led by young Nigerians like Rinu Oduala, who was 22 years old at the time.

A prominent organising hub was the Feminist Coalition — young women in their twenties who mobilised and deployed financial resources to ensure the nationwide protests had legal support, food & water, and protection. The #EndSARS protests ended when the federal government opened fire and murdered innocent protesters. Some of the #EndSARS energy was repackaged to support a 3rd force — Peter Obi — in the 2023 presidential elections. The elections were unfortunately rigged when technology was jettisoned as legal guidelines were ignored.

It’s now March 2025, and the outrage is still there — expressed through content and conversations — but there’s a reduced appetite for street protests and governance-related matters.

Nevertheless, silence is not an option. During the #EndSARS protests, most young people were unaware of the #EnoughIsEnough protests, which had happened ten years before. The #EndSARS protests are still raw, but in another five, ten years, what will people remember? Maybe the increased use of technology and social media platforms would ensure the stories are not lost.

Beyond the stories of what young people did and the lives lost, how will young people respond to leadership that has no vision and consistently shows in words and actions that it is not interested in building a Nigeria that allows its citizens to maximise their potential and fulfill their dreams? It’s even more interesting because the current president knows civil society well. He has funded and participated in protests and opposition politics. And in a nation where even the “middle class” are struggling, from where will the resistance come?

Young people are finding ways to make things work despite the government, and we see it exemplified in the arts  — music, fashion, movies, and painting. But there are some things only the government can do at scale, education, healthcare, and infrastructure topping that list. Four states in the region with the poorest education outcomes have chosen to close down all primary and secondary schools for 5 weeks during Ramadan. Schools in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) remain open. What exactly are we doing? Patients are dying at University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, because there is no electricity to power the hospital. UCH used to be Nigeria’s best hospital. Our institutions are another area that has been badly hit — the judiciary being a prime example. You don’t have to look further than the fiasco in Rivers and Kano states.

The list is endless, and the direct impact on our lives tells the story well. However, a government that receives no pushback and has no consequences to its “anyhow” behaviour will continue to behave “anyhow”. As in 2010 and 2020, the people who have the most to lose are Nigeria’s youth. In 15 years, EiE has tried to help citizens connect the dots and engage governance from their “Office of the Citizen” because public servants are servants of the public, the people. We have made some progress, but there’s still much more to do. From wards to local governments to states, young people must mobilise their numbers to understand that they still have the power to change Nigeria’s trajectory. Citizens who understand their power to elect and hold those in public office accountable can truly move mountains! No messiah is coming from anywhere, as current global affairs remind us.

How will you respond?

Evil is amplified when good people choose to be silent. I will not be silent. — Opeyemi

Opeyemi Adamolekun is the executive director of Enough is Enough (EiE) Nigeria (www.eie.ng), which she has led for fourteen years.