SUNDAY 6TH JULY 2025

Tinubu to Brazilian President Da Silva:

Deji

Encumbrances to Boost Agriculture in Nigeria

President Bola Tinubu has told Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula Da Silva that all the bottlenecks hindering the realisation of the agricultural

sector's potential, including livestock production in Nigeria, will be removed to enable food sovereignty and export.

Speaking yesterday at a bilateral meeting with Da Silva and some members of both countries'

cabinets at the Copacabana Forte, President Tinubu noted that bureaucracy contributes to delays in realising the agricultural sector's potential. Tinubu, in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information

and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, informed the Brazilian leader and delegation that Nigeria was already undergoing reforms to reposition the economy for global competitiveness, particularly in agriculture, where it already has

a competitive advantage.

President Tinubu stated that all technicalities in agreements between the two countries will be streamlined and fast-tracked in trade, aviation, energy transition, food and agricultural

development, mining, and natural resources exploration.

The president stated that Brazil's research and development services had been exemplary for most

Ribadu: Tinubu Rescued Nigeria from Dangerous Crossroads, Determined to Overcome Insecurity

The National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, has said Nigeria was at a dangerous

crossroads in 2022, facing multiple crises that threatened its unity, stability, and future, until President Bola Tinubu assumed office in 2023.

Speaking in Abuja at the 50th anniversary celebration of the Nigerian Defence Academy’s 18 Regular Course, Ribadu described the situation of the

country as dire, with security threats cutting across all regions of the country.

In a lecture titled “Veterans As Significant National Assets”,

Forget 2027 Elections,

Ribadu also proposed a National Veteran Security Initiative to leverage the expertise of retired officers in intelligence, training, and peacebuilding.

He said the challenges spanned across the country — from the insurgency-ravaged North-east

ADC guided by national interest, not desperation, Atiku tackles Wike, presidency Vows to resist electoral fraud, bad governance

Bolaji Abdullahi: We will provide better alternative to APC’s misrule

Deji Elumoye and Chuks Okocha

The Presidency has dismissed the opposition coalition and its African Democratic Congress (ADC) as a desperate and disjointed attempt to unseat President Bola Tinubu, and urged them to forget the 2027 general election and prepare for the 2031 polls.

But former Vice President Atiku Abubakar stated that ADC is a patriotic movement that is genuinely guided by national interest, as against desperation being postulated by Tinubu’s

administration.

Atiku also vowed to resist electoral fraud and oppose bad governance in the country.

This is just as the Interim National Publicity Secretary of the ADC, Malam Bolaji Abdullahi, said the mission of the party is not merely to remove President Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress (APC) by 2027, but to prove to Nigerians that there is a better alternative to the ruling party’s planned one-party structure and destruction of all valued national

Linus Aleke in Abuja

Elumoye in Abuja

in Abuja

Nigeria Missing as OPEC Agrees to Pump

548,000 Bpd Additional Crude Oil in

The Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries and its allies (OPEC) yesterday gave the go-ahead to eight of its members and allies, excluding Nigeria, to pump an additional 548,000 barrels per day starting in August.

The increase, which is equivalent to roughly 0.5 per cent of global production, is a step up from recent months when the group announced increases of 411,000 barrels a day.

Also at the weekend, Barclays said it raised its Brent oil price forecast by

$6 to $72 per barrel for 2025 and by $10 to $70 a barrel for 2026 on the back of an improved outlook for demand.

The OPEC group, which pumps about half of the world's crude oil, has been curtailing production since 2022 to support the market.

But it has reversed course this year to regain market share, amid growing supplies from rival producers like the United States.

The eight members that had their quotas raised include: Saudi Arabia, Russia, the UAE, Kuwait, Oman, Iraq, Kazakhstan and Algeria. The eight started to unwind their most recent institutions.

Presidential spokesperson, Sunday Dare, who addressed journalists in Abuja yesterday, said those coalescing around the ADC to challenge the president’s secondterm ambition were motivated by “avarice and opportunism” rather than any genuine national interest.

“There is no vacancy in Aso Rock until 2031,” Dare said pointedly.

“President Tinubu is barely two years into a transformative administration that has delivered reforms with courage, stability with clarity, and vision with determination,” he added.

Dare insisted that Tinubu’s administration remained unshaken and unmatched in democratic capacity and political reach.

“The Presidency already rests with the region rightfully due. And that’s where it will be till 2031,” Dare stated, taking aim at what he described as “disgruntled politicians” who had “carried their political harlotry” to the ADC.

He said none of the figures in the emerging coalition possess the discipline, selflessness, or grassroots support to replicate what happened in 2013 when a disciplined merger produced the APC and unseated an incumbent.

“In 2013, the merger that birthed the APC was driven by national interest. Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, despite commanding the loyalty of several sitting governors, chose to wait. He bided his time, played the long game, and built

to the violence-plagued Northwest, the restive Niger Delta, and separatist agitations in the South-east.

The NSA reaffirmed the Tinubu’s administration’s commitment to overcoming what he termed “inherited, intractable security challenges.”

According to him, “bold strides” have been made in restoring security and rebuilding national confidence across the country.

a viable political structure,” he explained.

Dare contrasted that with the current opposition coalition, saying, “Today, no one in this coalition commands that kind of loyalty or trust. Not one of them could genuinely unite a ward, let alone a country.”

He further dismissed the coalition’s narrative of injustice in the system, calling it a “political fairy tale” sold to manipulate public sentiment.

“There is no injustice to redress — only an ambition to control the national treasury. Nigerians are too wise to fall for this illusion,” Dare said.

ADC Guided by National Interest, Not Desperation, Atiku Tackles Wike, Presidency

Responding to the scathing criticisms of the coalition and ADC, Atiku stated that ADC is genuinely guided by national interest as against desperation being postulated by Tinubu’s administration.

Atiku, through the head of his media office, Paul Ibe, argued that what was proposed by the coalition is a truly democratic party with clear ideology and open internal democracy, and “not a cult-like structure driven by one man’s ego”, adding that the coalition plans to adopt a

layer of cuts of 2.2 million bpd in April.

But Nigeria was excluded by the cartel as it continues to struggle to raise its crude oil production despite ambitious projections and government incentives.

The country continues to grapple with a complex web of structural, security, and investment-related challenges that have kept production well below capacity.

As of May 2025, daily output hovered between 1.45 million bpd (oil alone) and 1.65 bpd, including condensate, far short of the 2.06 million bpd benchmark projected in the national

democratic structure rooted in open primaries and competitive processes.

He dismissed the attacks, saying that they were borne out of obvious fear that has manifested in Tinubu's presidency and the APC.

He said the coalition is not about recycling ambition, but about rescuing a country in decline, and invited every Nigerian, especially the youth, to watch closely and engage.

Ibe delivered a point-by-point rebuttal to the criticisms by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, and Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.

While responding to Onanuga’s post on X, in which the presidential aide dismissed the coalition as a gathering of disgruntled politicians, Ibe said: “Well, I wonder what Bayo Onanuga meant by ‘spent.’ Is it in terms of years in politics, or because they lost to Tinubu in 2023?

“Because if we’re talking about who appears spent, then look no further than President Tinubu himself. Tinubu, more than any of the opposition leaders, exhibits signs of political fatigue and opacity.

“When you look at Tinubu, what comes to mind is not energy or clarity. This is a man whose age is unclear, whose school history is suspect, and whose life story is riddled with contradictions. You cannot claim vibrancy while carrying that much baggage,”

budget for the year.

Aside from lack of investments, one of the most pressing issues is the dilapidated state of oil infrastructure. Many of the pipelines and terminals, some dating back decades, are plagued by leaks, corrosion, frequent breakdowns, and vandalism, in addition to oil theft in the Niger Delta.

The Minister of State, Petroleum (Oil), Heineken Lokpobiri, told a gathering of oil sector players in Abuja last week that he was surprised that despite all the incentives, including executive orders by President Bola Tinubu, crude growth remained stunted.

he explained.

While countering Wike, who during a media chat, accused the opposition of seeking to destabilise the government due to their failure to gain power, Ibe pointedly described Wike’s statement as ironic.

Ibe further said: “The very man who is now benefiting from the coalition of 2015, and who himself has more or less left the PDP for the APC, is now calling others desperate for doing the same.

“What changed? Is it no longer democracy when those out of power unite to challenge the status quo?” he asked.

Ibe stressed that the coalition was bound by a singular focus, which is Nigeria, saying: “The interest driving this coalition is the Nigerian interest. Not Atiku’s interest, not Obi’s, not El-Rufai’s. They are harmonising strengths because the nation is in crisis, and what we need now is collective action to fix it”.

Ibe stressed that the appointment of former President of the Senate, David Mark, as interim chairman was evidence of the coalition’s seriousness and credibility.

According to Ibe, “they chose David Mark because he is not a politician you can push around. He has integrity and the experience to guide this movement through its formative phase”.

Ibe stressed that Onanuga’s statement was a deflection tactic, stressing that, “rather than address

August

However, OPEC+ cited a steady global economic outlook and healthy market fundamentals, including low oil inventories, as reasons for releasing more oil.

With the August increase, OPEC+ will have released 1.918 million bpd since April, which leaves just 280,000 bpd to be released from the 2.2 million bpd cut. On top of that, OPEC+ allowed the UAE to increase output by 300,000 bpd. The group still has in place other layers of cuts amounting to 3.66 million bpd. But analysts insist that these production increases are likely to

the deepening economic hardship and insecurity under their watch, they are trying to label anyone who criticizes them as irrelevant or corrupt. It won’t work.

“It is not lost on Nigerians that many of the people Onanuga insulted were instrumental to the APC’s rise in 2015. If they have become enemies now, it says more about the party’s internal decay than the individuals themselves,” he said.

In a related development, Atiku has also vowed to stand against electoral fraud and oppose bad governance in the country.

Atiku spoke when he received a delegation from Gombe State led by a former minister and Senator, Idris Abdullahi at his residence in Abuja.

According to Atiku in his X account, "Yesterday, I vowed to stand against the stealing of elections and oppose bad governance.

''The coalition of opposition leaders under the umbrella of the ADC would work assiduously to usher in a positive change that will transform the lives of our people.

''The quality of the interim leadership shows that we are ready to bring integrity to the process and give Nigerians the responsible leadership they deserve.

''I am further inspired by the Gombe stakeholders' pledge of total support and loyalty to the decision of the coalition by joining the ADC.

contribute to a market in which supply outstrips demand in the second half of the year, potentially lowering prices. Meanwhile, Barclays has said it raised its Brent oil price forecast by $6 to $72 per barrel for 2025 and by $10 to $70 a barrel for 2026 on an improved outlook for demand. "Geopolitical tensions have eased as the US-mediated ceasefire between Israel and Iran continues to hold and the risk premium has evaporated, but price action has been reflecting better-than-expected fundamentals, in our view," said Barclays in a note.

''The group reminded me that I laid the foundation for the development of Gombe State when I supported the election of Danjuma Goje as governor in 2003.”

Bolaji Abdullahi: We will Provide the Alternative to APC’s Misrule

Meanwhile, ADC’s spokesman, Abdullahi, has explained that the coalition is to show Nigerians that there is another positive way to prevent the destruction of the National Assembly and other national institutions by the APC.

“Unlike what the chieftains of the APC are saying that the ADC is out to destroy democracy and the nation, we will say that Nigeria is already at the level of the precipice. We are on a rescue mission.

''Look at the cost of living. At N70,000, the minimum wage is like N7,000 or less. Look at the price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS). Look at the value of the naira.

“Our mission is to improve the welfare of Nigerians. We are already at the edge of the precipice. We want to stop the spiral food inflation, bring back Nigeria from this dangerous level the nation has been taken to by the APC.

''So, to put it mildly, ADC is out to prove to Nigerians that there is an alternative and that is what we represent,'' Abdullahi added.

“Security is not just the job of soldiers and police.

“It is everybody’s business and our success is due to the unified approach of all security agencies, working as one team.

“Veterans are being called back—not to the battlefield, but to the strategy room, to the classrooms, and into their communities.

“At a time when security threats have evolved beyond

He disclosed that the government’s counterinsurgency efforts have so far led to the neutralisation of over 13,500 terrorists and criminals, while more than 124,000 Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters, along with their families, have surrendered. Ribadu also recommended the active engagement of military veterans in the ongoing fight against insecurity, emphasising the value of their experience and knowledge in addressing complex threats.

countries, with the country rated as one of the highest producers of food and agricultural products.

On livestock farming, President Tinubu highlighted the efforts of his administration to boost investments in poultry, cattle rearing, and fisheries, adding that the blue economy also holds potential for long-term partnerships between Nigeria and Brazil.

He said Nigeria was ready for a strong partnership and

immediate action to stimulate food production. The president said the subnationals have a pivotal role in food and animal production in Nigeria by complementing the federal government's efforts to use agriculture as a significant source of employment and resource mobilisation.

On his part, President Lula assured that all agreements with Nigeria would be regularised, and the MoUs would be updated and

traditional battlefields, Nigeria is looking back to move forward— by turning to those who once stood at the front lines.

“You are not just assets to be admired, you are partners to be engaged, advisors to be consulted, and leaders to be followed,” he said.

Ribadu commended the veterans whom he said helped shape Nigeria’s defence landscape through decades of service, from battling civil unrest and insurgencies to peacekeeping operations abroad.

According to Ribadu, this makes them a strategic national asset in the country’s current security architecture.

The NSA outlined a plan to

signed without delay during President Tinubu's next visit.

Da Silva noted that the lingering bureaucracy between the two countries must be removed to achieve quick results, adding that Brazil's research and development institutions will collaborate with Nigeria to enhance livestock farming.

Minister of Agriculture, Senator Abubakar Kyari, stated that President Tinubu had consistently insisted on food security for

systematically integrate veterans into Nigeria’s contemporary security strategy by creating a National Veteran Security Initiative, a platform to build a national database of veteran expertise.

In his remarks, the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, lauded the initiative and urged NDA alumni across generations to emulate the Course 18 cohort in upholding the ideals of patriotism and service.

Matawalle pledged the commitment of the federal government to continue to enhance the welfare of the veterans.

The Chairman of the occasion, retired Maj. Gen. Ike

Nigeria, and the mandate would be actualised through local and global partnerships.

Kyari noted that Nigeria already had a competitive advantage in fertiliser production that could easily be enhanced.

Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, highlighted three areas of partnership with Brazil, including health and disease management, sanitary services, and research into genetic materials and new

Nwachukwu, who served as the Adjutant and Commander of Course 18 in 1975, praised their enduring loyalty and contributions to nation building.

Nwachukwu, who was a former Minister of Foreign Affairs and ex-military Governor of Imo State, lauded the efforts of Lt. Gen. Azubuike Ihejirika, a Course 18 member, as the 22nd Chief of Army Staff.

He said that Ihejirika proudly spearheaded crucial counterinsurgency operations and expanded military formations nationwide between 2010 and 2014.

In his remarks, Ihejirika advocated for compulsory military training for all Nigerians

breeds.

Governors of Benue State, Hyacinth Alia; Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun; Niger State, Mohammed Umar Bago; Delta State, Sheriff Oborevwori; and Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, attended the bilateral meeting.

Governor of Ogun State, Abiodun, stated that the subnationals would support the federal government's framework to revamp the agricultural sector. Abiodun noted that both

to instill a culture of patriotism, discipline, and national unity. Royal Father of the Day and Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, also a member of RC 18, called for sustained national devotion.

He urged veterans to lead in inspiring civic responsibility.

Earlier his remarks, the President of 18th Regular Course, retired Air Commodore Isaac Oguntuyi, revealed that only 47 of the 149 cadets who began training on June 30, 1975, are still alive.

He paid special tribute to Sa’ad Abubakar and Ihejirika for their historic accomplishments, describing them as pillars of the group’s enduring legacy.

leaders' decision to include a business forum during President Tinubu's state visit to the country will inject fresh ideas and resources, enabling quick results in turning around Nigeria's agricultural sector.

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, and Director General of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), Mohammed Mohammed, also participated in the bilateral meeting.

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

WELCOME, HIS EXCELLENCY...

GDP Rebase: NBS Set to Unveil New Expanded Structure of Nigerian Economy to Reflect Accurate Performance

James Emejo in Abuja

The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) said it is ready to unveil the country's much-awaited rebased Gross Domestic Product (GDP) estimate to provide a more accurate and comprehensive reflection of the country’s economic structure and performance.

Though GDP basically measures the rate of growth of an economy, the statistical agency further explained in a statement that the proposed figures emphasise not just size, but also the structure of the economy, particularly areas where it is thriving and where attention is required.

The rebasing exercise, which updates the base year from 2010 to 2019, comes over a decade after the 2014 re-benchmarking.

However, NBS said the new GDP estimates would capture emerging sectors and technological advancements that have transformed the economy in recent years.

The rebasing is also expected to reveal shifts in the contributions of various sectors, including the digital economy, creative industries, and informal markets, many of which were previously underreported or overlooked.

The NBS stressed that the updated figures would provide policymakers

a stronger foundation for economic planning and poverty reduction efforts.

According to the NBS, “rebasing helps us to understand where the economy is today, what sectors are driving growth, and where interventions are needed most.

“It enables better-targeted policies and more responsive governance.”

While GDP growth is a key indicator of economic activity, the NBS further clarified that growth alone does not determine a country's development.

The agency stressed that rebasing remained a standard international statistical practice, ideally done every five years, though Nigeria’s delay was due to the capital-intensive nature of the data collection required.

The updated estimates are a product of major national surveys and economic data, including the Nigeria Living Standards Survey and the Census of Establishments.

By anchoring the new base year to 2019, a period of relative stability before the COVID-19 pandemic, the bureau further pointed out that it aimed to provide a clearer, more stable reference point for assessing Nigeria’s economic trajectory.

Economists and development experts have welcomed the move, noting that the rebased data could

Ajaero Mobilises NLC against National Assembly’s Move to Decentralise Minimum Wage Structure

The President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Joe Ajaero, has declared the organised labour’s opposition to any move by the National Assembly to transfer labour issues, including the matter of the minimum wage, from the exclusive legislative list of the federal government to the concurrent list.

The amendment would empower individual states to set their workers’ wages.

Ajaero issued this warning at the weekend during the National Administrative Council meeting of the Central Working Committee (CWC) of NLC, which took place in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

Describing the move as “an exercise in futility”, Ajaero argued that the issue of minimum wage is treated globally as a national matter in line with International Labour Organisation (ILO) conventions, which regard member countries

as entities, not sub-national units such as states.

He alleged that the plan by the lawmakers was a calculated attempt to “bastardise” the national minimum wage structure and shift other labour-related responsibilities to the states, including the establishment of state industrial courts that would independently handle wage disputes — a move he said violates ILO principles.

“The National Assembly should not go into this exercise in futility unless members also allow their respective states to determine their wages.

“If they attempt to smuggle labour matters into the concurrent list, we will mobilise workers to protest against it, even up to election day,” the labour leader said.

Speaking later with journalists, the NLC President reaffirmed that organised labour would firmly oppose any effort to undermine the minimum wage, calling on lawmakers to uphold justice and protect the interests of the citizens they represent.

positively influence investor confidence, improve Nigeria's debt-to-GDP ratios, and enhance the country’s credibility in the global economic arena.

The NBS had also made its methodology available to the public on its website, underscoring its commitment to transparency and accuracy.

Nonetheless, the proposed figures are expected to reshape national conversations around growth, development, and economic reform.

Earlier, Statistician-General of the Federation (SGF)/Chief Executive,

NBS, Prince Adeyemi Adeniran, clarified that the rationale for the proposed GDP rebase was to ensure that economic indicators accurately reflected the current structure of the economy.

He said this would incorporate new and emerging sectors and refine data collection methods.

Adeniran said contrary to speculations, the exercise was not meant to suit the "expectations of anyone or entity, but simply to measure accurately in line with the global standards and practice".

The SGF said the exercise remained the responsibility of NBS as the country's official producer of data.

Adeniran said the process remained crucial for informed policymaking, strategic planning, and effective governance; hence, one exercise that the NBS is conducting with significant importance and professionalism.

He said, "If Nigeria is to make the desired progress and development, it is imperative that NBS, as the official producer of data, plays its role adequately in providing timely,

accurate, and reliable statistics to inform all users, be it users in the public sector, or the private or third sector.

"This will enable them to design, plan, and implement policies and programmes that will lead to the attainment of national objectives for the benefit of Nigerians.

"Our mindset in undertaking both critical assignments is in tandem with the United Nations fundamental principles of official statistics, particularly Principle 3, which deals with accountability and transparency."

Natasha Hails Supporters after Court Victory, Set to Resume Senate Duties Tuesday

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

The suspended senator representing Kogi Central Senatorial District in the National Assembly, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has told her jubilant supporters in a video trending on social media, that she would resume her legislative activities in the red chamber on Tuesday this week.

She expressed gratitude to her supporters following a favourable court judgment that reaffirmed her position in the Senate.

She said, “I thank you for your support. I am glad we are victorious today. We shall resume in the Senate on Tuesday by the grace of God.”

A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja had on Friday nullified the six-month suspension slammed on Akpoti-Uduaghan by the Senate,

The Minister of Power, Bayo Adelabu, on Friday met with the leaders and stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress in Ogbomoso and Oyo zones in Oyo State, respectively.

Addressing party members in Ogbomoso at the residence of one of the leaders of the party, Ayoade Adeseun, the minister said the meeting was part of his consultations across geopolitical zones in the state towards realisation of his governorship ambition in 2027.

He, therefore, allayed the fear of the party stakeholders that APC would not impose any aspirant in 2027, saying, “I’m up to the task, I want to show them that I can withstand and survive competition

The court ordered that she should be recalled from suspension.

It also fined her the sum ofN5 million for contempt of court over a Facebook post deemed to have violated an earlier court order.

The court declared that the six-month suspension slammed on her was excessive, unconstitutional, and an infringement on the rights of her constituents.

Justice Binta Nyako in a ruling that spanned multiple legal issues, held that Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Facebook post, a satirical apology directed at Senate President Godswill Akpabio, breached an interim injunction issued by the court on March 4, 2025.

That injunction had barred all parties from making public statements or social media posts relating to the ongoing suit she

and come out victorious.”

While seeking their supports towards the realisation of his ambition, Adelabu pleaded for forgiveness from aggrieved members, saying they should be concerned of how the party will come back to power in 2027.

He said, “I’m here to tell you that I want to contest for governor of Oyo State in 2027. I’m ready to put to test all experience I’ve gathered from the past two elections.

“I’m not against other zones becoming governor of the state, all I know is that God’s time is the best.

“Ogbomoso is very important in this state election, I’m here to seek for your support and backing, I’m

filed challenging her suspension.

The embattled senator was suspended for six months by the Senate in March after a rowdy plenary during which she accused Akpabio of sexual harassment.

The suspension had sparked outrage among various civil society groups and human rights organisations.

Akpoti-Uduaghan subsequently sued the Senate and its leadership, arguing that the action was a calculated attempt to silence her and disenfranchise her constituents.

In response to a satirical Facebook post dated April 27 – in which she offered what the court described as a “mock apology” to Akpabio, lawyers representing the Senate President filed a contempt application against her.

The lawyers claimed that the

happy to see that all the factions in Ogbomoso are now one.”

He also called on people in the zone to support the re-election of President Bola Tinubu for more dividends of democracy.

“This is another turn of Yorubas to serve their two terms as President of Nigeria. Nigeria has a lot to benefit if Tinubu is re-elected,” Adelabu added.

In Oyo town, Adelabu pleaded for their supports, saying “I will run all inclusive government where everybody will be involved in governance of the state and no one will be left behind if I become governor of the state in 2027.

“I’m here for people to know that no one can impose anybody, I want to work and prove to

post was in defiance of the court’s gag order.

During proceedings, AkpotiUduaghan’s legal team contended that the post was unrelated to the suspension case, insisting it concerned her personal allegations of misconduct against the Senate President.

Justice Nyako, however, disagreed, stating that the post was clearly linked to the matter before the court and therefore constituted a deliberate breach of the court’s directive.

Delivering her ruling, Justice Nyako imposed aN5 million fine on the senator and ordered her to issue a public apology within seven days.

The apology must be published in two national dailies and reposted on her Facebook page.

our party members that I’m up to the task, I want to show them that I can withstand and survive competition and come out victorious.

“Oyo is like a second home to me, my supporters, followers, associates and allied are all here, they have been supporting me in the past and they are ready to support me again.

“I will give what is due to Oyo. Oyo zone deserves better treatment because it is symbolic, Oyo is historical, symbolic and blessing to the entire state.” Adeseun and son of former governor, Olamijuwonlo AlaoAkala, urged members of the party to come together and ensure emergence of the APC in 2027.

James Sowole in Abeokuta

L-R: President Bola Tinubu; Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun; and Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, when the president arrived in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, ahead of the 17th BRICS Summit scheduled…yesterday.

INAUGURATING NEW MANAGEMENT TEAM...

L-R: Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, NCGC Limited, Mr. Bonaventure Okhaimo; Deputy Chief of Staff to the President (Office of the Vice President), Senator Ibrahim Hassan Hadejia; Vice President Kashim Shettima; former Speaker of the House of Representatives and Board Chairman, National Credit Guarantee Company Limited (NCGC Limited), Hon. Yakubu Dogara; and Executive Director, Strategy and Operations, NCGC Limited, Mrs. Tinuola Aigwedo, during the formal inauguration of the NCGC’s board and management team by the vice president at the Presidential Villa, Abuja…recently

2027: South-South APC Endorses Tinubu, Three Govs as Sole Candidates, Passes Confidence Vote on Akpabio

Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City South-South leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) rose from a stakeholders’ meeting yesterday to endorse President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the sole presidential candidate of the party for the 2027 general election.

The meeting also adopted three governors on the platform of the party as candidates in 2027.

The governors are: Bassey Edet Otu (Cross Rivers), Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta), and Umo Eno (Akwa-Ibom).

The host governor, Monday Okpebholo, who would have been the fourth governor, has his re-election for 2028.

The position of the South-South governors and leaders was made known in a communique after a stakeholders’ interactive session held in Benin City, capital of Edo State. The event, which witnessed various prominent figures like Senate President, Godswill Akpabio; Senators Adams Oshiomhole, Ned Nwoko, and other members of the National Assembly

on the platform of APC, extolled the leadership qualities of President Tinubu. They threw their weight behind the president to continue his Renewed Hope Agenda in 2027 to solidify his developmental strides and put the country on the path of continuous growth.

Other prominent leaders of the party like the four governors Delta, Akwa Ibom, Cross River and Edo states who were also present at the meeting, in their remarks, said there was need for the party in the region to sell the

policies of President Tinubu to other two states of Rivers and Bayelsa to woo them to APC.

Collectively, the various speakers passed a vote of confidence on President Tinubu and Akpabio. They highlighted various reforms currently underway in Nigeria, including the Lagos-Calabar coastal road, student loan initiative, and the exemption of low-income earners from tax payments, as key achievements of the current administration, which formed the basis for the region's support for

Elon Musk Unveils ‘America Party’ to Rival Republicans, Democrats

The tech mogul, Elon Musk, has announced the formation of ‘America Party’, a new political party in the United States.

Musk made the declaration yesterday, a day after asking his followers on X whether a new political party should be created.

“By a factor of 2 to 1, you want a new political party, and you shall have it!” he wrote on X.

“When it comes to bankrupting our country with waste & graft, we live in a one-party system, not a democracy.

“Today, the America Party is formed

to give you back your freedom.”

Musk’s desire to “reform” the American political system began brimming after his fallout with President Donald Trump over the contentious “Big Beautiful Bill”.

Trump eventually signed the bill Friday afternoon after it passed both chambers of the congress.

The bill includes tax cuts, spending boosts for defence, and an immigration crackdown.

But to pay for the tax cuts and the spending, the bill includes cuts to critical social services, including

medicaid, a government health insurance programme for low-income households.

Trump said Musk contested the bill because it affected an electric vehicle (EV) mandate that could affect the sales of electric cars.

But the Tesla chief executive officer (CEO) dismissed the claims.

During his final days as Trump’s adviser, Musk said he was disappointed with the bill.

His comments triggered a public exchange of words with the president on social media.

Musk said the US president showed ingratitude, given that without his help, “Trump would have lost the election”.

The president warned that there would be “serious consequences” if Musk funded Democratic candidates to run against Republicans who would vote in favour of the legislation.

As the US senate debated Trump’s contentious “Big, Beautiful Bill” on Monday before a final vote, Musk threatened that those in favour of the proposal would lose their primary next year.

Doctors Reject FG’s Pay Review, Demand Implementation of Revised Allowances for Medical, Dental Officers

Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja

The Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) has rejected the controversial circular issued by the federal government through the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission (NSIWC) on June 27, 2025, regarding the review of allowances for Medical and Dental Officers.

Describing the circular with reference number: SWC/S/04/S.218/III/646, as preposterous, the doctors said its content failed to address the realities and pressing needs of Nigerian medical professionals.

They further stated that the directive contradicted the national policy on health workforce migration and undermined efforts to retain skilled personnel in the country’s health sector.

According to a statement issued

yesterday by Dr. Osundara Tope and Dr. Odunbaku Kazeem Oluwasola, President, and Secretary General of NARD, respectively, the commission’s action reflects a troubling level of indifference toward Nigerian doctors, who continue to sacrifice their time and expertise despite poor working conditions, chronic manpower shortages, and inadequate infrastructure.

They also stated that the commission’s actions completely failed to address the underlying drivers of health workforce migration or acknowledge its profound impact on Nigeria’s healthcare system.

Consequently, the association demanded the implementation of the revised Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) and allowances as submitted to the Federal Ministry of Health, in line with the collective bargaining

agreements earlier made with the federal government, including payment of specialist allowance to all doctors.

NARD also declared that, in solidarity with the demands of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), a fresh negotiation team that will align with the principles of the Collective Bargaining Agreement should be set up.

The statement reads in part: “For over a decade, the Nigerian government has not fulfilled the tenets of the 2009 collective bargaining agreement reached with the Nigerian Doctors.

“The National Salary Income and Wages Commission unilaterally decided to conjure a chaotic allowance structure without transparency and a proper framework that creates mutual respect and understanding.

“The allowance Structure as released by the NSIWC

lacks attractive and adequate compensation that reflects the hard economic reality we presently face as Nigerian Doctors.

“It also fails to address the critical concern that is negatively impacting the nation’s healthcare system.

“It completely fails to come to grips with the push and pull factors of Health Workforce Migration and the consequences of Health Workforce Migration on the Nigerian health system.

“Nigeria is suffering from severe shortages of health workers stemming from poor welfare packages, poor working conditions, excessive workload, burnout, mental fatigue, and lack of compensation for overtime.

“In all of these woes on the health workers, what NSIWC could do on behalf of the Federal government is a disrespectful offer to Nigerian doctors.”

the president. The communique, which was read by the APC National Vice Chairman, South-South, Chief Victor Giadom, read in part: “We commend Mr. President for his uncommon love and support for the South-South region, which is reflected in the support for the emergence of Senate President for the region in the person of Senator Godswill Akpabio, and speedily acceding into law, the South-South Development Commission. We also take cognisance of the massive developmental projects in the region, including but not limited to the LagosCalabar Coastal Road.

“We therefore unanimously pass a vote of confidence on our uncommon President of the Senate, His Excellency Senator Godswill Akpabio, for his outstanding leadership, for uniting the South-South region, and for his support for the renewed Hope Agenda of Mr. President.

"We welcome the governors, stakeholders, and supporters of the South-South States for their patriotic and courageous decisions of embracing the renewed Home Agenda and joining the All Progressive Congress (APC). We therefore humbly call on the remaining two non-APC governors of the region,

namely the Governor of Rivers State and Bayelsa State, and their supporters, to also join the progressive family in the APC.

"We pass a vote of confidence on the four APC Governors of the South-South region, namely Senator Bassey Edet Otu of Cross Rivers State; Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State, Pastor Eno Umoh of Akwa-Ibom State, and Senator Monday Okpebholo of Edo State.

"We hereby unanimously adopt Mr. President, His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as our sole candidate for the 2027 election. We also endorsed the four governors of the APC in the region as candidates of the party in the 2027 governorship election. That is the decision of the South-South Zone of the All-Progressive Congress.

The Majority Leader of the House of Representatives, Prof. Julius Ihonvbere, moved the motion for the adoption of the communique, endorsing President Tinubu as the sole candidate of the party in 2027, and the four governors of the party as candidates in their respective states. The motion was seconded by the Senator representing Edo North, Senator Oshiomhole.

Nigeria Records 145 Lassa Fever Deaths as Fatality Rate Increases

Nigeria has recorded 145 deaths from Lassa fever as of 2025 Epidemiological Week 25, with a case fatality rate (CFR) of 18.6 per cent.

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) disclosed this in its latest report via its official website yesterday in Abuja.

The NCDC said the week 25 figure marks an increase from 17.6 per cent reported for the same period in 2024.

The report, which covered the week of June 16–22, revealed that 781 confirmed cases were reported out of 5,943 suspected cases across 20 states and 101 Local Government Areas (LGAs).

In the current reporting week, 10 new confirmed cases were reported in Ondo and Edo states with a slight increase from the eight cases recorded the previous week.

According to NCDC, 91 per cent of all confirmed cases in 2025 were reported from five states: Ondo (31%), Bauchi (24%), Edo (17%), Taraba (16%) and Ebonyi (3%).

It said that the disease continues to affect young adults predominantly, within the 21 to 30 age group most impacted. Males were slightly more affected, with a male-to-female ratio of 1:0.8.

The Nigerian public health agency said that despite a decline in the overall number of suspected and confirmed cases compared to 2024, the rise in CFR is raising concerns among health experts. The agency highlighted late presentation of cases, high treatment costs, and poor health-seeking behaviour as contributing factors to the increased fatality.

It said that no new infections among health workers were recorded in the reporting week, though 23 healthcare workers have been affected cumulatively this year.

The NCDC said it is currently in collaboration with partners, such as the World Health Organisation (WHO), the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (US CDC), ALIMA, the Institute of Human Virology Nigeria (IHVN) and others.

The collaborations, it stated further have intensified multi-sectoral response efforts to combat the spread of Lassa fever.

It said that, as part of these efforts, Integrate clinical trials are currently ongoing in Ondo State, with After Action Reviews (AARs) conducted in both Ondo and Ebonyi to evaluate the response to the outbreak.

PROMOTING ENTREPRENEURSHIP…

L-R: Founder, Neimeth Pharmaceutical, Mazi Sam Ohuabunwa; Chief Executive Officer, Arravo Technologies Limited, Dr. Ayo Adegboye; President, ACR Holdings, Funmi Bajulaiye; Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Tinubu on Entrepreneurship Development, Chalya Shagaya; and Chief Executive Officer, ACR Holdings, Felix Ehighaleh, during the CEO Drawing Board 7.0, African Caribbean Franchise Exhibition 2025 organised by ACR

National Assembly to Transmit Constitution Review Report to State Assemblies Before December 2025

Peter Uzoho

The National Assembly yesterday disclosed that it would transmit the report of the ongoing constitution review to the 36 state assemblies before December 2025, in line with timetable.

The federal lawmakers, however, challenged all stakeholders with special requests to engage and lobby their state assemblies, noting that the National Assembly “cannot successfully review the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended) without their approval.

Senate Majority Leader/Zonal Chairman, Senate Committee on the Review of 1999 Constitution, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele made this disclosure yesterday at the conclusion of the two-day zonal public hearing on the Review of the 1999 Constitution held at the Water Crest Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos State.

Since the beginning of alteration of

the Constitution in the Fourth Republic in 1999, devolution of powers, local government autonomy, creation of additional states and establishment of state police, among others, have taken center stage at the zonal public hearing.

Deputy Minority Leader of the Senate, Senator Olarere Oyewunmi; Chairperson, Senate Committee on Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Dr. Oluranti Adebule; Chairperson, Senate Committee on Health, Senator Ipalibo Banigo; Chairman, Senate Committee on Public Procurement, Senator Olajide Ipinsangba and Chairman, Senate Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters, Senator Adeniyi Adegbomire, among others, were present at yesterday’s public hearing.

Addressing the stakeholders, Bamidele disclosed that the report of the committee would be transmitted to all State Houses of Assembly before

There’re Still Unfinished Business Matters Regarding Tax Reforms, Says Oyedele

Festus Akanbi

The Chairman of the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee, Taiwo Oyedele, has stated that there are still unfinished business matters regarding tax reforms in the country.

Oyedele said this at his 50th birthday lecture in a speech titled, ‘Designing Tomorrow: Policy blueprint and lessons for the future’, which he shared on his X handle yesterday.

In June, President Bola Tinubu signed four tax reform bills into law: the Nigeria Tax Act, the Nigeria Tax Administration Act, the Nigeria Revenue Service Act, and the Joint Revenue Board Act, collectively referred to as ‘the Acts.’ The bills have been touted as a major step toward bringing Nigeria’s tax regime into the 21st century by consolidating the country’s fragmented tax laws into a harmonised statute and establishing a uniform legal and operational framework for tax administration across federal, state, and local governments. However, in his birthday policy speech, Oyedele hinted that the reforms were far from over.

He said, “The reforms are not done. We still have unfinished business. We need to lower corporate tax rates on

businesses to attract more investments and stimulate expansion. With high inflation, a high tax rate will invariably be taxing capital, not profit. We must address regulatory overreach, embrace digitalisation, and refine our tariff system to reduce the rates on raw materials and intermediate products, which are currently twice the average for sub-Saharan Africa. Addressing our tariffs and regulatory hurdles is the equivalent of granting waivers from all income and consumption taxes.

“We also need fiscal reforms to complement a strong and stable Naira such as allowing payments of all taxes in Naira and limiting discretionary forex demands. Despite having a comparable trade balance over the past 10 years as Kenya and South Africa, the Nigerian Naira has lost 6 times more value than either the South African Rand or the Kenyan Shillings. This means Nigeria would have been a one trillion dollar economy today, with much less poverty, expansive middle-class, higher purchasing power, and moderate price increases (fuel, electricity, etc).”

Oyedele went on to call for an elevation of inclusion and national interest over sectional or self-interest and the use of credible data to formulate policies.

December 2025.

“We have completed the public hearing. We are now returning to Abuja to prepare our report. Part of our time table is to have final notifications before the end of the year and transmit our report to all state assemblies. This will round the process of the constitution review,” he said.

He noted that the constitution review “is not a jamboree contrary to some dissenting views across the federation. Rather, it is designed to make consequential reforms that can guarantee our collective prosperity, more efficient governance structure and sustainable development.”

Bamidele also disclosed that the National Assembly would be handicapped to successfully complete the constitution review process if all the amendments proposed by the stakeholders were not approved by

the two-thirds of state assemblies. He challenged all stakeholders across the federation to lobby all state assemblies and their lawmakers to secure basic requirements for the successful amendment of the 1999 Constitution.

Bamidele said: “There is nothing the National Assembly can do without a two-third approval of all proposals by the state legislatures. All stakeholders must work with their lawmakers at the state level. We must appreciate the role of state assemblies to ensure the passage of the proposals into laws.

“State assemblies are part of the process. We have been in Lagos State in the last 48 hours, listening to people’s aspirations, concerns and will. All six states in the geo-political zone were represented by their elected representatives. We are in this process together to receive their presentations.

“The state assemblies are already anticipating the report of the constitution review from the National Assembly. They are not waiting for the report alone. They are also part of the constitution review process. I do not envisage any problem from the state assemblies.

“Therefore, we are advising all the stakeholders who are also looking for special considerations to extend their advocacies to the state assemblies.”

Also at the public hearing, Chairman, Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria and Speaker, Oyo State Assembly, Hon. Debo Ogundoyin solicited for more power to be devolved to subnational governments for rapid and accelerated development.

Ogundoyin, represented by the Deputy Speaker, Hon. Abiodun Fadeyi, said both federal and state

governments should be allowed to legislate on issues that border on solid minerals, labour matters, drug and poisons, telecommunications, stamp duty amongst others.

Ogundoyin also backed the establishment of state police, and identified improved local security, community policing, decongestion of federal responsibilities, enhanced accountability and employment opportunities, as some of the benefits. Also speaking, the Chairman of the Conference of Speakers of State Assemblies, South-West Zone, Hon. Adeoye Aribasoye has called on the National Assembly to enact strong laws to address boundary disputes in the country.

“It is not good that we fight ourselves over issues of boundaries. Yoruba people should not be fighting themselves over boundaries.

FG to Spend N17bn on Lagos Bridge Damaged

The federal government has successfully negotiated the cost of the Iddo Bridge rehabilitation from an initial N27 billion to N17 billion.

The Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, made this known to journalists during an inspection of the bridge on Friday in Lagos.

He said: “Julius Berger quoted, I think, N27 billion or thereabout, but after much negotiation and discussion, we have now arrived at N17 billion.”

Umahi commended Julius Berger Nigeria Plc for demonstrating a sense of cooperation under its new leadership.

He described the company as a

Umahi

“born-again Berger”, attributing the breakthrough in negotiation to the understanding and openness of its new managing director.

The minister reiterated the government’s commitment to prudent spending, insisting that all contractors must align with the ministry’s standards and directives.

Umahi noted that the project had been reviewed from mere rehabilitation of the burnt section to a major work.

He expressed concern over the poor condition of the bridge, blaming it on years of neglect and human abuse, including illegal occupation and collisions by heavy-duty trucks.

He said that three spans of the bridge were severely damaged by fire, which he attributed to the activities of illegal occupants who had built makeshift homes under the bridge.

“They brought in chemicals, built block walls, and set up homes. Then, they set fire that burnt the bridge and damaged three spans. Now we are going to fix the bridge completely,” Umahi said.

The minister said the Iddo Bridge, now with a headroom of about 4.5 metres, had suffered significant structural damage due to continuous hits from trucks and illegal structures beneath it.

He announced that the ministry

by Fire

would be creating a headroom of at least 5.6 metres.

He said that the Federal Ministry of Works was committed to restoring the bridge for the safety of all Nigerians and ensuring such incidents would not occur again. On the issue of displaced persons, the minister said that no one would be allowed to return under the bridge.

“Nobody will stay under Iddo Bridge again as long as I remain the Minister of Works.

“The lives of the people are more important,” he said. He warned that the government would no longer tolerate any abuse of national infrastructure.

Confirms Investors' Interest in Lagos-Calabar Highway, Others, Sets December Completion Target

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

Some financial institutions have shown eagerness to participate in the execution of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project, the SokotoBadagry Superhighway, and similar landmark road projects of the general government, the Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, has said.

Addressing journalists at the weekend after inspecting the LagosCalabar Coastal Highway and some bridges in Lagos, the minister stated

that the recently inaugurated 30km portion of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway would not be opened to motorists until completion of an additional 17.47km portion of Section One, Phase One, of the road project.

“I have had meetings with a lot of financial institutions, and they are very eager to participate.

“We are doing everything to complete Section 1 by December and have it approved, and that will open a floodgate for other financial aid.

“One thing that I must commend

the President for and, of course, beat my chest and say glory be to God, is that the international funders came and they saw the quantum of the job we are doing.

“That, for me, is a pass mark,” Umahi said.

He said that the recently inaugurated 30km portion of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway would be opened to motorists after the completion of an additional 17.47km portion of the Section One, Phase One, of the road project.

“We completed 20km at the beginning, and then we completed 10km.”

He said that the contractor, Hi-Tech Construction company, was working hard to complete the 17.47km.

“This is what we are working to join, and when we have joined it, if you are travelling from Ahmadu Bello way to the Lekki Free Zone, then you can use the coastal highway.” The minister said that the road would be tolled to ensure constant maintenance.

Holdings in partnership with Arravo Technologies Limited in Lagos...weekend

ABIODUN AJALA

NEWS

COURTESY VISIT…

L-R: Chief Executive Officer, Great Bukstand Ventures, Chief Chibuko Agbata; Chief Executive Officer, Julicis Hotels & Suites, Okota, Chief Uche Offor; Managing Director/CEO, Fullpage Communications Limited, Chief Ingram Osigwe; Managing Director/CEO, Onix Group/ Chairman, Igbo Stakeholders, Lagos, Prince Nixon Okwara; and Public Relations Officer, Igbo Stakeholders, Lagos, Mr. Martin Hill Arinze, at the Amuwo Odofin Community Engagement dinner with Vice Chairman, Amuwo Odofin Local Government Area, Mrs Ashara Maureen Chika in Lagos…yesterday

Aondoakaa: State Creation Not Economically

Justifiable, Yar’Adua Signed Power Transfer Letter

Former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Chief Michael Aondoakaa (SAN), has criticised the ongoing constitutional amendment process led by the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, particularly the push for the creation of additional states.

He described the effort as politically motivated and economically indefensible.

Aondoakaa has also disclosed that the late President Umaru

Yar’Adua signed a power transfer letter, which was never delivered to the National Assembly.

Speaking yesterday on ARISE NEWS Channel’s Morning Show programme, Aondoakaa warned that most Nigerian states are already financially distressed, adding that the creation of more states would only worsen the burden on the country’s limited resources.

“The agitation for new states is driven by political selfishness, not by any genuine sense of injustice. Everyone wants a state they can control or become governor of”,

Re-election, Says Umahi

The Minister of Works, Senator Dave Umahi, has praised President Bola Tinubu for his achievements, saying the Southeast geopolitical zone is fully in support of him and will work for his re-election.

Umahi spoke to journalists on Friday night in Lagos, where he dismissed claims that the Southeast was giving conditions, such as the release of Nnamdi Kanu, to support the President.

“Somebody asked me about Nnamdi Kanu, and I said his matter is not a condition for the South-east to support the president.

“We are willing to negotiate his release, but no one should make it a condition because the President did not put him

there,” he said.

The minister described Tinubu as a listening leader and expressed faith that Kanu’s release would come through divine grace and dialogue, not through pressure or politics.

He said: “President Tinubu may not be perfect, but he is doing most things right.

“Look at where he picked up the economy from. The international community has confidence in his reforms. That is why we are getting support for our projects.”

Umahi highlighted key infrastructure projects being delivered by the current administration in the South-east, including the rehabilitation of some roads abandoned by past administrations.

NCIA Sparks Dialogue on Cassava Investment, Industrialisation at World Cassava Day 2025

Yinka Olatunbosun

More than 200 stakeholders from across Nigeria’s agricultural and investment sectors convened at the Office of the Vice President to mark World Cassava Day 2025.

The event, themed “Farm to Global Markets: Driving Industrialisation, Food Security and Exports,” brought national attention to cassava’s untapped economic potential.

The forum was hosted by Cavista Holdings in collabo-

ration with the Office of the Vice President and the Project Management Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President of Nigeria on Agribusiness and Productivity Enhancement, Dr. Kingsley Uzoma. Strategic support was provided by the Nigeria Cassava Investment Accelerator (NCIA), a Lagos Business School-led initiative implemented with the Boston Consulting Group. Flour Mills of Nigeria Plc also supported the event as a corporate sponsor.

he said.

He noted that Canada, which is eleven times larger than Nigeria, has just seven provinces.

“We should be consolidating states, not multiplying ones we can’t sustain,” he added.

Aondoakaa also expressed concern that constitutional

amendments have become routine in every session of the National Assembly, with no clear sense of national urgency or justification.

“Since 1999, every legislature has treated constitutional amendment as a default agenda. That’s not how it should work,” he said.

He cited the 2010 constitutional

amendment that clarified the transfer of presidential powers during prolonged absences, prompted by the crisis surrounding the late President Yar’Adua’s illness, as a rare example of a necessary and meaningful constitutional reform.

“Amendments should only be

made when provisions have been tested and proven inadequate. Not just because a new Assembly has been inaugurated,” he said.

“We’re amending the Constitution to a point where it becomes counterproductive. Every National Assembly cycle brings new amendments.

Adeleke Dismisses Rumours of Planned Defection, Insists He Remains Loyal Member of PDP

Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo

Osun State Governor, Mr. Ademola Adeleke, has dismissed rumours suggesting that he plans to quit the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Rumours were rife on Friday about the imminent defection of Adeleke and the entire structure of the PDP defecting to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

But in a statement released yesterday, Adeleke said he remained a loyal member and leader of the PDP in Osun State.

This is as the state chapter of the PDP also dismissed rumour making the rounds about alleged plans by Governor Adeleke to defect into the fold of the APC.

The governor said he had been inundated with calls regarding

his rumoured defection in the last few hours.

“I want to assure the good people of Osun State and Nigerians at large; I remain a loyal member, and the leader of the People’s Democratic Party in Osun State,” the Osun governor said.

“My focus remains on delivering good governance and fulfilling our five-point agenda for Osun people.

“Please disregard the fake news and continue to support our mission for a better Osun State.”

Following the adoption of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) by opposition politicians, there were insinuations that Adeleke might be the first governor to join the coalition.

Nigeria, Indonesia Trade Volume Hits $4.7bn amid Strengthened Commercial Ties

Omolabake Fasogbon

Trade relations between Nigeria and Indonesia have reached an all-time high, hitting $4.7 billion in bilateral trade volume.

The figure exceeds twice the $1.9 billion recorded in 2019, and signals a promising outlook for future investment between both countries.

President of Nigerian Indo-

nesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NICCI), Ishmael Balogun, attributed the impressive growth to revitalised efforts by NICCI to promote Nigeria’s business worthiness and credibility.

Balogun, while speaking at the chamber-organised Nigeria Mid-Year Economic Outlook, themed: ‘Building Resilience in a Turbulent Economy’, submitted that Nigeria remains challenged

by foreign exchange uncertainty, inflationary pressure, and global economic realignments, yet, a fertile investment ground, evident in its growing partnership with Indonesia.

He stated further that the forum was drafted in line with present circumstances, and to adopt strategies accordingly, across both public and private sectors.

“This is why we have brought together leading minds in business and policy to share rare insights with us all to help navigate and position our businesses at an advantageous position. Our goal is not just to facilitate trade, but to build resilience. Today is not about economic data, it’s about decision-making and creating a more connected network of entrepreneurs and investors ready to lead when the tide changes,” he said.

Journalists Must Hold Leaders Accountable to Safeguard Democracy, Mbah Tells Enugu Press Corps

Arinze Gideon in Enugu

Governor of Enugu State, Peter Mbah, has emphasised the vital role of journalists in safeguarding democracy by holding leaders accountable at all times.

Mbah made the call yesterday at a two-day capacity retreat for members of the State House Press Corps (SHPC) in Enugu.

Represented by the Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change, Prof.

Sam Ugwu, the governor described the media as the nation’s conscience.

“As a bastion of democracy, it is essential that journalists must never lose sight of their sacred responsibility to hold leaders accountable and strengthen institutions.”

“In today’s world, where truth is increasingly under assault, your role has never been more critical,” he said.

Speaking on the workshop

theme, ‘Artificial Intelligence Utilisation for Effective Journalism,’ Mbah advocated for ethical and responsible journalism.

He urged journalists to embrace AI as a powerful tool while staying grounded in journalistic integrity.

“Artificial Intelligence is not the next frontier; it is actually with us now and impacting our lives in ways we may not immediately discern.”

“We miss the point if we

simply view Artificial Intelligence through the lens of conspiracy theories and fear: that it will lead to job losses, overwhelm humanity, etc.”

“We should rather see Artificial Intelligence as a tool that can make us work smarter,” he said.

Mbah also highlighted technology-driven reforms by his administration, including a Command-and-Control Centre for security surveillance and a smart school initiative.

Wale Igbintade

NNPP Faction: Kwankwaso Remains Suspended,

Can’t Run on Our Platform against Tinubu in 2027

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

A faction of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) has stated that the presidential candidate of the party in the 2023 general election, Rabiu Kwankwaso, remains suspended and cannot run on the party’s platform against President Bola Tinubu or any other presidential candidate in 2027.

The National Chairman of the party, Dr Agbo Major, made this known in a statement issued yesterday.

Major emerged as the National Chairman of the faction at the

party’s convention, which was held at the RockView Hotel in Apapa, in February 2025.

However, Kwankwaso’s faction shunned the convention and rejected Major’s election, insisting that Dr Ajuji Ahmed remains the only recognised National Chairman of the party.

But Major claimed that both Kwankwaso and his ally, Buba Galadima, were expelled from the party due to alleged anti-party activities.

Major’s claim was in reaction to the recent comments by Galadima, who asserted that Kwankwaso

had no intention of leaving the NNPP and would contest the 2027 presidential election on the party’s platform.

Galadima had claimed that there was no evidence to support the claim that the former Kano governor was planning to join the All Progressives Congress (APC).

He urged Nigerians to support Kwankwaso, saying, “We will strategically stay in the NNPP until the whistle is blown for 2027 politics.”

However, the NNPP national chairman has dismissed those claims, reiterating that both men

MFM Member, Olusanya, Wins

Guinness World Record in Trumpet

A member of the Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries (MFM), Joshua Olusanya, has emerged the first person to win the Guinness World Record in Longest Marathon Trumpet Blowing, which he played for 25 hours, 30 minutes and 36 seconds. He achieved the record in Lagos on May 9, 2025.

Sharing his testimony during the Special Power Must Change Hands programme, July edition of the MFM held at the Prayer City, yesterday, Joshua disclosed that last year, he attempted the longest playing time of the trumpet in the world but his attempt was disqualified because of a technical error.

“I was heart-broken, it was painful for me, seeing the number of efforts that I put into it and I was disqualified. However, I was

not discouraged and this year, I sought the guidance of our father in the Lord (Dr. Daniel Olukoya), who, instructed me to first of all cut off my dreads. This was a very tough decision for me; I can actually say that was one of the toughest decisions to take in my life. Then I consulted my parents, told them about this and my parents said that, ‘For your spiritual victory, obey our daddy in the Lord.’ It took me some days to decide to obey the instruction of our father in the Lord; I cut my dreads and went back to tell my father in the Lord that I have cut my dreads and he prayed for me.”

Later that night, Joshua revealed that he had a dream in which he experienced a mighty deliverance upon his life, where he was broken out of bondage. The next day, all

the companies he had earlier approached for sponsorship for the second attempt that turned him down, started requesting to sponsor him. With this, he was encouraged to contest for the world record again.

have long been ousted from the party.

According to Major, “the NNPP had long expelled Kwankwaso and Galadima and so, they no longer speak for us nor can they use our platform for any political contest”.

He disclosed that the party’s Memorandum of Understanding with the Kwankwasiyya Movement led by Kwankwaso was terminated shortly after the 2023 presidential election.

“We cannot even allow Kwankwaso, for whatever reason, to return to the NNPP

fold because of the problems and internal wranglings he created for us,” Major added.

According to him, Kwankwaso’s time in the party was marked by turmoil and divisiveness.

“Kwankwaso led us into unnecessary litigation and even changed our party logo to the Kwankwasiyya logo, all in an attempt to hijack the leadership of the party. It was the court’s interventions that led to INEC changing back to our logo that they submitted after a kangaroo convention in Abuja,” he explained.

Major further accused Kwankwaso of seeking another “free ticket” as he allegedly received for the 2023 polls. “Kwankwaso must be counting on another free ticket like he got for the 2023 presidential election, but it will not happen again.” He stated categorically that the party would not readmit Kwankwaso or his group, saying they “massively betrayed our trust.”

“Certainly, Kwankwaso can never join any political party where he will not have the chance of leadership,” Major said.

Youth Group Slams Deputy Speaker Kalu over Frequent Foreign Travels

A youth advocacy group, Eastern Democracy Watch, has called on the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, to end what it described as his frequent and frivolous foreign trips, and focus on his primary responsibility as a lawmaker.

In a statement signed by its leader, Comrade Aneke Uzuakpunwa, and made available to journalists in Enugu, the group criticised Kalu for what it called “incessant foreign travels that bring no tangible benefit to the Nigerian people, especially at a time of severe economic hardship.”

Uzuakpunwa questioned why the Deputy Speaker appears more invested in international engage-

Gbenga Akinfenwa: How I was Initiated into Music Ministry

Gbenga Akinfenwa is a music minister, producer, and speaker who

has blessed the world with some popular gospel songs. In this interview, the IT guru turned gospel singer bares his mind with Kayode Tokede on his journey into the music world. Excerpts:

When did you receive the call to sing gospel music?

Iwas not called to sing gospel music. I was covenanted as a child by my parents, so serving God has always been part of my identity. But when I was 10 years old, our then Pastor, Pastor Gbolahan of the Apostolic Church, by divine leading, called me out as well as my younger brother in the middle of service and laid hands on us and prophesied that God wanted to ‘use us’ in the music space. That was my initiation into music ministry as we know it now.

Can you share how your faith influences your choice of music?

My faith is the bedrock of my life, and my music is usually a byproduct of my walk with God or a revelation from studying His word. I don’t just release songs for the sake of it. It is an intentional curation of my walk with God.

Have you always wanted to be a gospel singer, or did your path change over time?

I didn’t set out to be a gospel singer. I was a tech guy for years and worked as an IT pro for some of the biggest companies in Nigeria, from Telcoms to FMCGs, although while working 8 to 5 (it was 8 to whatever time all IT issues had been resolved). In those years, I also functioned in my role(s) as a bass guitar player and music director in church and campuses, until God pushed me out of my comfort zone and told me, ‘There is more!’

What was the first gospel song you ever recorded, and what did it mean to you?

I received the song titled ‘Di Mi Mu’ in 1999 as a student. We sang it then, and it became very popular across campuses

in Nigeria and youth churches. It is still widely sung today. It was a song of consecration as a young Christian student. The message I still carry with me to this day.

What are the inspirations behind your songs, “Aanu Lo Nsoro”, “Aanu Ni Mori Gba”?

‘Aanu Ni Mori Gba’ came the day after we had our son. My wife had asked God for a son, praying at the Redemption camp. After some challenges, God mercifully answered us. There are many other very personal testimonies that I have encountered the mercies of God.

What message do you want people to take away from your songs, “Aanu Lo Nsoro” and Aanu Ni Mori Gba”?

The mercy of God is a master key. Whatever you may be going through, once mercy speaks and God steps in, you are sorted. One of my anchor scriptures for life is Romans 9:16 that says, “..it is not of him that willeth or of him that runneth, it is of the Lord who shows mercy”.

“Aseyi o wu” by Evang. Dr. Bola Are is one of your outstanding songs. Tell us the inspiration behind the song. I was working in the studio one day and took some time to pray. The song came while I was lying on the studio floor, praying and worshipping God. Now, Dr. Bola Are is one of my major musical influences as a child, so it was a dream come true to feature her on that special song.

You also ft Yinka Alaseyori to deliver “Mii O Sin O Lasan”. Take us through the story behind the song.

I was on a prayer walk while in the UK sometime last year, and I was reminiscing about the goodness of God. While praying and singing in tongues, God downloaded the words and melody

ments than in legislative work for the people of Bende Federal Constituency who elected him.

“It is disturbing that Hon. Kalu seems bent on travelling more frequently than even the Speaker of the House or President Bola Ahmed Tinubu—whose own travels have already attracted public criticism. This raises serious concerns about priorities and accountability,” he said.

The group urged Kalu and other top public officeholders to reduce unnecessary spending on foreign trips and align their lifestyles with the economic realities facing Nigerians.

“The President and his appointees preach austerity and sacrifice, yet continue to spend

lavishly on avoidable international engagements. The Deputy Speaker must lead by example. Nigerians are watching,” Uzuakpunwa said.

He particularly criticised Kalu’s recent “Peace in South East” initiative, describing it as wasteful and ineffective.

“Rather than holding a hollow gala night with taxpayers’ money, he should have organised a concrete security summit that addresses the real issues plaguing communities in the South East,” he added. Since assuming the role of Deputy Speaker, Hon. Kalu’s foreign travels often under the banner of international parliamentary forums or diplomatic meetings, have sparked public scrutiny.

of the song to my lips and I recorded it to my phone. Now, I am very intentional about who I feature on my songs. So while just singing the song casually one day, it was like I heard Yinka (Alaseyori) singing. Guess what? We chatted about it the next day, and the rest, they say, is history.

How do you stay spiritually grounded as a gospel artist? After God, it is very important to have a robust spiritual community and authority to which you are accountable. I am fortunate to have a strong spiritual community of people. From my biological parents, Overseer and Deaconess Akinfenwa, to spiritual assets in men and women of God, friends, and partners who keep you accountable and grounded.

Who are your biggest artistic influencers in the gospel genre? I grew up with the music of Dr. Bola Are, Dupe Olulana, and co. I cut my bass playing and arranged teeth from Dr. Ron Kenoly, John P. Kee, Kirk Franklin, and others. Tye Tribbett is a huge influence as well.

What advice would you give to emerging gospel artists? Let your production be excellent, don’t be afraid to be original or different. Learn the business side of things, too.

Wale Igbintade

Akinfenwa

Olusanya

Ribadu: Of Progress and Agents of Distraction

For years, Nigeria’s security architecture was like an orchestra without a conductor—each agency playing its own tune, each refusing to follow a shared path. The military, police, DSS, and paramilitary outfits operated in silos, hoarding intelligence and guarding jurisdiction like jealous gatekeepers. It was a house with too many doors and no master key. The result was confusion, inefficiency, and too often, bloodshed. Terrorists thrived in this vacuum, kidnappers exploited the disjointed response mechanisms, and communities bore the brunt of institutional dysfunction.

The turning point came in 2023. The appointment of Mallam Nuhu Ribadu as National Security Adviser marked the beginning of a subtle yet seismic shift in how Nigeria approached internal security. While others predicted political aspirations and conjured hypotheticals about 2027, Ribadu got to work. His style was not flamboyant; he didn’t dominate headlines.

Ribadu’s history as former EFCC head gave him more than anti-corruption credentials—it earned him moral authority. This proved essential in restoring trust between rival agencies. His leadership was rooted in respect, not fear; in unity, not hierarchy. And the effect was immediate.

Agencies that once refused to share intelligence began to collaborate. Military and police commands operated with mutual purpose. The DSS moved from the shadows into alignment with broader national efforts. Nigeria’s fragmented security architecture was being stitched back together—deliberately, strategically, and without ego.

This shift wasn’t cosmetic. It translated into real-world victories that began to change the national narrative. Within the first 18 months of President Tinubu’s administration and Ribadu’s stewardship, over 13,500 terrorists and criminals were neutralized, while more than 17,000 suspects were arrested across various theaters.

In the Northeast, particularly Borno State,

the heartland of Boko Haram, 102,000 insurgents and their families surrendered. This mass capitulation wasn’t accidental—it was the result of combined pressure, both military and psychological, backed by soft-power interventions. Over 11,000 weapons were recovered, significantly weakening insurgent capability and sending a clear message that the tide was turning.

In the North-West—Zamfara, Kaduna, Katsina—states once gripped by kidnapping and banditry, more than 11,000 kidnapped victims were rescued through joint operations. These missions were no longer hampered by poor coordination. They were surgical, timely, and built on real-time intelligence sharing. Notably, the elimination of notorious bandit kingpin Ali Kachalla marked a psychological and tactical victory that had eluded security forces for years.

The Niger Delta, long plagued by oil theft and environmental degradation, saw one of the most aggressive anti-crude theft campaigns in decades. In just over a year, 1,978 illegal refineries were dismantled, along with 3,849 dug-out pits and more than 3,700 cooking ovens. This crackdown didn’t just secure infrastructure—it revived the economy.

Nigeria’s daily crude oil production, which had plummeted to under one million barrels in 2022, surged to 1.8 million barrels by mid-2025. Oil operations in Ogoniland also resumed under this new, secure atmosphere.

In the Southeast, where separatist agitators had declared disruptive “sit-at-home” orders. More than 50 police stations abandoned due to threats have been reopened. The population, long skeptical of state authority, is regaining faith in the institutions meant to protect them.

All of this progress stems from one core change: unity. For the first time in over a decade, Nigeria’s security agencies are operating not only together, but as one. The previous era of turf wars and information hoarding is giving way to a culture of synergy. The NSA’s office has transformed from a passive observer into a dynamic coordination hub.

This transformation did not happen by accident. It is the product of Ribadu’s strategic vision. He recognized early that Nigeria’s greatest security threat was not just the armed gunman in the bush but the bureaucratic silence between agencies. He understood that technology without trust would fail, and firepower without coordination would falter. His eight-pillar strategy, though not shouted from rooftops, touches all aspects of modern security—from intelligence sharing and joint operations to cyber forensics and institutional reform.

Under Ribadu’s guidance, Nigeria has frozen dozens of cryptocurrency accounts linked to terror financing and begun developing one of the country’s most advanced cyber-forensics labs in Abuja. These moves signify a decisive leap from reactive counterterrorism to anticipatory governance.

Yet, amid these gains, distractions persist. Rumors about Ribadu’s potential 2027 ambitions—gubernatorial or vice-presidential—have surfaced. These speculations, pushed by political actors and amplified by opportunistic commentators, are not only baseless but dangerous. They risk derailing momentum at a time when Nigeria can least afford it. Who benefits from a weakened NSA? Not the rural farmer in Zamfara or the schoolgirl in Borno. The real beneficiaries are the same elements that profited

during the era of confusion—the enemies of a coherent security strategy.

It is important, therefore, to separate noise from necessity. Ribadu is not running a political campaign. He is running a national security campaign. His mission is to dismantle silos, build bridges, and bring coherence to a system long teetering on dysfunction. While others speculate, he strategizes. While critics draft op-eds, he’s rebuilding trust between institutions that once refused to speak.

To understand the magnitude of this achievement, one must remember how broken the system once was. Senior officers used to bypass one another, field commanders acted without clear mandates, and multiple agencies responded to the same incident without coordination. The result was not just inefficiency—it was carnage. Attacks that could have been averted with timely intelligence became mass tragedies. Communities became cemeteries of unlearned lessons.

But that is changing. Slowly, yes. Imperfectly, of course. But undeniably. Today, there is communication across commands. Strategic alignment between the DSS and military. Police operations are no longer undermined by other agencies acting in parallel. The symphony is still tuning itself, but it is no longer noise—it is beginning to sound like music.

In a country as complex as Nigeria, no security solution is perfect. Threats are evolving, and the road ahead is long. But for the first time in a long time, Nigeria is facing these challenges not with fragmentation, but with focus. Not with bravado, but with strategy.

Ultimately, the true measure of Ribadu’s impact is not in media mentions or political forecasts. It is in the confidence of field officers who now know their intelligence will be acted on. It is in the relief of communities that can sleep without fear. It is in the quiet dignity of a government putting national interest above institutional ego.

Critics will come. So will speculation. But Nigeria’s security architecture is finally learning to stand upright. Let us not tear it down just as it begins to hold.

Mahmud writes from Jabi, Abuja.

BecomingBabajideSanwo-Olu:OfLegacy,Leadership&LimitlessPossibilities

This is more than the documentation of a personal milestone. It is my individual reflection on the life of a man whose path has consistently intersected with the growth of Africa’s most ambitious city, Lagos (Eko Wejele).. This is about Becoming Bábájídé, a narrative woven through years of duty, service, vision, and destiny and I have coined a deeply resonant Yoruba phrase using his name, “Àdúràgbomi n gb Eko dide” [The One prayer lifted is lifting Lagos] to capture this season beautifully. It speaks to a life and leadership that leans on grace, believes in providence, and acknowledges the power of prayer, planning, and purpose working hand in hand.

As Governor Bábájídé Olùsolá Sànwó-olú’ turns 60, the world pauses not merely to mark a birthday but to honour a story that continues to unfold with power, purpose, and presence. His Life now is not just a moment of transition – it’s an invitation to look backward with gratitude, to reflect inward with clarity, and to step forward with renewed vision.

Born into a family with values of responsibility and spiritual depth, Bábájídé Sànwó-olú’ has risen through the ranks of public and private service with initiative and intelligence. His emergence as a transformative leader in Lagos didn’t happen overnight; it was shaped by years of preparation, sacrifice, and the ability to listen and learn. Uncle Jide has always believed in continuous growth, a mindset that has guided his leadership journey.

His ascent through public sector serving in various key positions before rising to the office of Governor was marked by a deliberate commitment to learning, building, and impacting. His experience in the banking industry taught him discipline and performance metrics. His roles in government gave him a front row seat to

the heartbeat of the people. It was in this fusion of public insight and private excellence that his leadership identity was fully born.

At the core of Governor Sànwó-olú’s style is purpose driven leadership, a desire not just to administer Lagos but to creatively reimagine it. Under his watch, Lagos has witnessed major strides in economic growth, infrastructure, urban development, healthcare systems, education reforms, investment in youth, capacity building in the creative sector and digital innovation. Roads have been rebuilt, bridges have been constructed, and districts once forgotten are now seeing the light of thoughtful governance. From the massive Red Line Rail project to the digital ID rollout, to schools receiving tablets to learn and to the clean stoves’ initiative to enhance energy access and mitigate environmental impact especially in vulnerable communities, Lagos under his leadership is becoming smarter, faster, and more inclusive.

This Gentleman governs with a rare balance of firmness and empathy. His ability to act decisively while staying emotionally connected to the people sets him apart. His response to crises from public health to urban flooding demonstrates a man not just ready to lead in peace, but capable of standing firm during storms. His policies are bold, but his tone is humble. His vision is large scale, but his approach remains people centred. Lagos is not perfect yet, but we’re getting somewhere.

Beyond the statistics and development plans, what defines Bábájídé Sànwó-olú’ at 60 is his growing spiritual posture and acknowledgment that destiny, favour, and divine guidance have played roles as important as strategy. His governance is measured by both immediate impact and future potential. He’s laying a foundation for a Lagos that is not just functional, but formidably capable of leading Africa into a new era of urban excellence.

At 60, he wears his years not as weight, but as a crown - a reminder that leadership is best defined

by impact, not applause. As we’re ushered into this “Becoming Bábájídé”, era, we see a balance of empathy with execution, policy with people.

A gentle force of focus and dignity, the theme of legacy runs like a river through this his new chapter. He’s not content with short term wins; he’s building platforms, systems, and policies meant to last far beyond his time.

As we look ahead, I see a man who is still becoming. Becoming more intentional, more introspective, more innovative. Becoming Bábájídé is not about attaining a final form, it’s about a lifelong unfolding. A leader choosing daily to grow, to serve, and to rise.

At this unique juncture in your life, I celebrate not just the leader, but the legacy in motion. I honour not only the past six decades of existence on mother earth but the limitless potential of what lies ahead for you and yours. I echo the call that lives in the hearts of many - Lagos is rising, and its light is led by one who understands both the weight of history and the wings of possibility.

In you, your dear Mother must find joy and fulfilment in the thought-provoking verse from late Chief J.F. Odunjo, the renowned Yoruba playwright and poet’s popular Alawiye sequence, “Kaka ki n’bi egbaa obun, Maa kuku bi okan soso oga, Maa fi yan araye loju, Maa ro’un gbera’ga” – its ENGLISH TRANSLATION being “Instead of breeding two thousand filthy ones, I would give birth an exceptional child, I would have something for the world to envy, I would have something to be proud of.”

As you step into 60, I join countless others across the world and beyond in celebrating not just your age, but your legacy — one built on service, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to the greater good.

You are not merely the Governor of Lagos State. You are a symbol of quiet strength, strategic thinking, and steady leadership. In a time when governance is often noisy and performative, you have led with focus, grace, and an unmistakable sense of purpose. You have carried the hopes of millions with dignity, responding to the complex demands of a megacity with humility and heart.

I have observed, admired, and appreciated the depth of your devotion to the people of Lagos and Nigeria - but even more inspiring is your humanity: your willingness to listen, to evolve, and to stand firm when it truly matters. Most importantly, I like how you’re such a Family Man, such a Hubby, such a Daddy. I respect how you nicely eulogise our brilliant First Lady, your elegant Medical Doctor Wife every now and then and how you exchange banters with your son like his Guy. His Gee. I’ve seen it for real. That Girl Dad, “I have decided to follow Jesus” Dance at your Birthday Praise Party with your daughter was everything cute. So profound. So personal, it showed that while you carry Lagos everyday, your heart has never forgotten home and its cherished moments.

Khalid Mahmud

toyosi Akerele-Ogunsiji

ribadu

Sanwo-Olu

Editor: Festus Akanbi

08038588469 Email:festus.akanbi@thisdaylive.com

Inflation Targeting and Race to Price Stability

Central Bank headquarters, Abuja

WHY ANIOMA STATE MATTERS A REUNION OF POLITICAL EXES

The

ADC coalition is

a ‘political Uber’ for those stranded without relevance, reckons TEMITOPE AJAYI

Fbeen climbing every available rooftop, megaphone in hand,

because the man is doing a terrible job on the saddle. Not because the economy collapsed. No. Just because they missed out

under the banner of the African Democratic chief among them Atiku Abubakar and idea.

themselves helped fertilise over the past 25 like a poorly-scripted sequel that is ill-fated. their original parties and lost the plot as

this movie before. In 2018, former President

is another expedition in political self-harm. policy-driven renaissance. It is more like egos. Jealousy, personal bitterness, inflated ambition, and expired influence are the rescue themselves from political oblivion. of this attempted comeback, let us meet the promiscuity. He has changed parties more Six failed presidential bids in 30 years, and he is still convinced he has a divine

or a midlife crisis project stretched into of religion and ethnicity, our fault lines, he came third in the 2023 presidential election.

govern. From every pulpit to podcast, he hammers out statistics like a broken

him to the Promised Land. as governor left more questions than legacy the June 12, 1993 election. He spent 20 years development memo sent since the 1980s. talking about saving democracy. He helped even shorter loyalty span. Denied a ministerial alone national leadership. Despite his knack for media drama, his electoral influence is by the system. He is the dictionary definition of entitlement.

House of Assembly to being governor to like an average Nigerian, he thinks Nigeria being Director-General of Buhari’s campaigns in 2015 and 2019, he failed spectacularly to Each time, he got beaten by Nyesom Amaechi is a synonym for failure in matters

experiments that left the state more broke than Greece in 2008 and left civil servants holidays and turning passport collection into

against the man God used to elevate him to positions of national prominence. Bolaji zero conviction. is not on a mission to reinvent Nigeria. themselves. No ideology, no credible seeking roles and relevance like actors leadership structure itself is illegal.

Ajayi is Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Tinubu on Media and Publicity

KEVIN OJI argues for the creation of Anioma State to address imbalance in governance structure

the country another opportunity

internal contradictions that has stymied the unfurling of the great Nigerian possibility.

Headed by Senator Barau Jibrin, the Deputy place simultaneously across the six geopolitical zones July 4th-5th is envisioned to gather the to impact governance, security, economy and issues such as judicial reforms, local government autonomy, establishment of a local government electoral commission, creation of states, inclusive governance and other issues of national importance.

Apart from the military, there have been since the return of democracy in 1999. General

the quest for Anioma State continues to elicit high interest and command the attention of Nigerians. It should be rightly accorded utmost consideration and the seal of approval by the committee for obvious reasons. Whereas the military acted decisively in matters of state creation, the Igbo speaking states that straddle seven states, mainly in the South-east and SouthSouth felt shortchanged by the imbalance in the distribution of these states. Among the major ethnic groups, the Igbo-speaking obvious implication of this reality is that

1991. General Sani Abacha created six more to 36. In spite of the undesirability of military rule, the leadership of these praetorian juntas acted decisively in response to challenges of nation-building. While the autocratic nature of military governance structure may have made decisive action easier, it should be stated that our country’s constitution established a credible

process of state creation in our clime. It is achievable, but involves a multi-step process level of consensus.

Attempts at state creation since the birthing of democratic dispensation in 1999 has been

to break the impasse on the side of the people in furtherance of the primacy of collective interest. For the ongoing process embarked upon by the 10th National Assembly to be

bedeviled past attempts. Nigerians expect members of the committee to rise above

and hold in abeyance, the realization of the transparent and inclusive process that not only people.

State creation is an emotive issue that requires the committee, the National Assembly, the President and indeed the political class to act of state creation, the committee has received south and North-central zones, seven from

that drive agitation for state creation include the quest for better representation, economic facilitate infrastructural and human capacity development; it also creates job and leadership opportunities. Among the various agitations,

disadvantage affects the region not only in voting but in resource distribution. For decades, this imbalance continues to fuel feelings of marginalization and exclusion country.

State is driven by the overriding need to present governance structure as it holds valid implication for national cohesion and stability. Some of the country’s challenges ethnic nationality feels marginalized and feeling unleashes socio-economic and political instability, erosion of national unity and trust, brain drain and in extreme

heightened ethnic saliency rather than abate at the end of hostilities, has increased because perceived injustices remain unattended to by political leaders. In the 21st century, nations determined to make desired progress are taking deliberate steps to build an inclusive society in order to harness its transformative capacity. Instead play footsie.

state in the interest of fairness as equity

knell on the vestiges of oppression and marginalization and accelerate the forging of the Nigerian mind for full national integration

government areas of Aniocha North, Aniocha South, Ika North-East, Ika South,

adequate representation and benefits from its resources.

Oji, a public affairs analyst, writes from Abuja

Editor, Editorial Page PETER ISHAKA

Email peter.ishaka@thisdaylive.com

ADC COALITION AND MATTERS ARISING

The country’s political parties are largely flawed

That our political system has not fully recognised the importance of viable political parties as pillars of a lasting democracy is not in doubt.

appreciate that this viability is a function of ideas. When those who lead parties are not conversant with what their platforms stand for, and how best to transform them into the common good, there is already a problem. Without that understanding and the discipline to stay the course, many of these politicians

not rooted in ideas and ideals will end up no more than mere gang-ups for a power grab.

Following mass resignations from their political parties politicians trooped to the vehicle’ for contesting the 2027 general election. Those who have adopted the party platform

alternative ideas to the ruling party and in the process, enhance transparency and accountability in governance.

In real terms, this new political structure has no belief content and is only equal to the

stands for. The party seems to be coherent only in appearance and mostly because it is in power and has patronage to dispense. Its promoters share no ideals about how to change the fortunes of Nigerians. Yet, what the absence of credible political parties anchored on the rule of law and popular participation portends is that our democracy remains rather frail.

Beyond occasional soundbites and empty slogans, there is nothing to differentiate one political party from the other in the existing parties. That explains why members crisscross from one to the other at will

presidential candidate in the 2019 and 2023

also two former governors, Nasir el-Rufai (Kaduna

of the party and former Minister of Interior, Rauf

left. There is also the argument about whether positions and platform to members of other the main concern is in the character of opposition parties which ordinarily are expected to offer

SUNDAY NEWSPAPER

EDITOR DAVIDSON IRIEKPEN

DEPUTY EDITORS FESTUS AKANBI, EJIOFOR ALIKE

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THISDAY NEWSPAPERS LIMITED

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DIVISIONAL DIRECTORS SHAKA MOMODU, PETER IWEGBU, ANTHONY OGEDENGBE

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soundbites and empty slogans, there is nothing to differentiate one political party from the other in the existing parties. That explains why members criss-cross from one to party must offer the people good governance to remain to challenge the policies and programmes of the incumbent government is integral to alternative views, they help to put the people in power on their toes. Unfortunately, the real losers of all these political shenanigans are the people of Nigeria.

In essence, while we lament the disarray within and between our opposition parties, what requires substance of political parties in Nigeria. We need a new democratic culture where value is placed on high standards by leaders with issuebased political parties that can articulate clear ideologies and road map for the country. In other climes, people who associate in a political party share roughly similar ideas and ideals on how to improve society. That is not the case in Nigeria where the emphasis is about grabbing power, but not necessarily to advance the public good. It is time to change that narrative.

Letters in response to specific publications in THISDAY should be brief(150-200 words) and straight to the point. Interested readers may send such letters along with their contact details to opinion@thisdaylive.com. We also welcome comments and opinions on topical local, national and international issues provided they are well-written and should also not be longer than (950- 1000 words). They should be sent to opinion@thisdaylive. com along with the email address and phone numbers of the writer

LETTERS

PETER RUFAI: NIGERIA LOST A HERO

Nigeria lost another hero when Super Eagles years old and died after battling a protracted The news of his death was particularly devastating for the nation and the footballing world which was still smarting from the death who died few hours earlier in a ghastly motor accident in Spain.

sudden demise, they were indeed extremely granted Rufai through a very successful football career that made him to become world famous. Mayana” by the faithful, was one of Nigeria’s brightest and most charismatic professional footballers, who served the national team admirably and guided it through its golden era.

patriotism, dedication and professionalism also reflected in him throughout the over two decades of his career that saw him play for local and foreign clubs until he retired in early 2000s. in Nigeria and Spain since his retirement from

Nations winning team in Tunisia. stand in captain for the National Team during of Nations, where Nigeria finished second and in France.

Though a goal tender, he also had a goal

For many Rufai is considered one of the and Mohammed El-Shenawy of Egypt as one different generations.

his colleagues, who saw him as a very reliable his poise particularly during penalty shootout.

that our departed sporting heroes should be immortalized for posterity and to serve as inspiration for up and coming generations. Rufai is the fifth member of the golden

Olawale Ajimotokan, Abuja

Remembering Uche Nwokedi’s Legal and Literary Legacies One Year After

Friends and associates recently joined the family of the late Uche Nwokedi in Lagos to mark his first memorial. Davidson Iriekpen and Yinka Olatunbosun reflect on the life and legacy of the renowned lawyer and literary giant, who, though he lived a relatively short life, left behind countless memorable moments that will remain indelible

June 28, 2024, became both an end and the dawn of a different human experience when Sir Uche Nwokedi, SAN, an author, lawyer, and philanthropist passed away in London.

As a lawyer, he was accomplished, rising to the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria. But it was his first love — writing — that fuelled the creative brilliance he brought to the stage, the screen, and the page. It also sharpened the legal briefs that cemented his reputation.

His demise was a monumental loss to his family, friends and the industries he had impacted. Indeed, it was the start of an unexplainable cycle of grief and healing, as well as an end to intellectually stimulating conversations, warm embrace and other everyday activities that have now become timeless memories.

As a young child who survived the Biafran war in Eastern Nigeria, Nwokedi, son of the retired Supreme Court judge, Justice Paul Nwokedi and Martha Nneka, was a lover of the arts. His love for musicshared by his siblings - was a major influence on his famous theatrical work, ‘Kakadu The Musical’, which documents the Biafran war from a romantic lens.

One of Nigeria’s earliest worldclass musicals, ‘Kakadu’, was staged in South Africa’s largest theatre, the Nelson Mandela Theatre, Johannesburg, in 2017. Certain facts can never be forgotten in a hurry. For many who acted in ‘Kakadu The Musical,’ the experience spearheaded by Nwokedi’s The Playhouse Initiative was a catalyst for career growth. For the majority of the 60-man cast, it was their first international trip, leaving a sweet memory that lingers till today.

Nwokedi’s literary legacy is marked by his memoir ‘A Shred of Fear,’ which chronicles his childhood experiences during the Biafran War. The book showcases his storytelling ability, blending humour with tragic events, while providing a unique perspective on Nigeria’s civil war.

His writing style is characterised by vivid storytelling as he evokes dramatic events, making the reader feel like they’re experiencing it firsthand.

With humour and pathos, he balances the narrative’s emotional weight, making the book an unforgettable read. The memoir is an insight into the author’s memories and experiences during the war, providing a personal and historical account. By exploring collective memory, Nwokedi left a lasting literary legacy in ‘A Shred

of Fear.’ When asked why he was writing about the Biafran war in his prose and play, he revealed that the generation which witnessed the Nigerian civil war is fast eroding. The children of Biafra are over 60 years of age and the memory of the war is being wiped away by the passage of time. Hence, he created an authentic story that now outlives him.

Writing ‘Kakadu the Musical’ was at first an emotional release; a task executed in-between work. But then, it got more personal, almost mimicking his life. Like Emeka in ‘Kakadu,’ Nwokedi found a lasting companion in a Yoruba woman, Winifred, a formidable backbone of a successful man.

Though his characters are fictitious, the reality he paints with

words is believable and relatable. The greatest criticism against his musical was the pace which he took very seriously.

A perfectionist, Nwokedi’s quest for a superlative performance led him to theatres outside the Nigerian shores. In time, he was able to convince his critics that infrastructure or the lack of it can affect the outcome of a dramatic piece on stage. After a rousing reception for ‘Kakadu’ in Davos, Switzerland and Johannesburg, South Africa, Nwokedi threw his weight behind another artistic project, a drama series titled ‘E.V.E.’ He created and produced the weekly legal soap opera that ran for three seasons.

Furthermore, Nwokedi published the Nigerian Oil and Gas Cases, a

valuable resource for lawyers and scholars studying oil and gas law in Nigeria.

His legacy extends beyond literature, as he was a multifaceted individual who excelled in law, sports, and the arts. Nwokedi was a black belt holder in karate and a former President of the Karate Federation of Nigeria. His impact on those who knew him is evident in the tributes from friends and acquaintances, who remember him for his kindness, generosity, and unwavering commitment to his passions.

Penultimate Saturday in Lagos, which marked his first memorial year, friends, associates and family of Nwokedi gathered at his alma mater, St. Gregory’s College in Obalende, Lagos for a memorial mass. There, history was made. The Uche Nwokedi Prize for the Best Student in Literature-in-English was instituted.

The prize not only immortalises Nwokedi, it affirms his literary legacy and continues a culture of generosity that Nwokedi was known for. At the service, his bereaved wife expressed gratitude for the love and support received from family and friends since last year while acknowledging that her husband’s death was an irreparable loss.

Nwokedi lived in Nigeria and the United Kingdom, the two places where he practised till his last breath. A very cultured man, he spread his network of friends across age, social status and religious background.

His journey towards becoming a lawyer started after completing his studies at Mayfield College in East Sussex, England. He returned to Nigeria for his higher education and graduated with a law degree from the University of Lagos in 1983. Later, he was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1984.

Nwokedi became a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) in 2007, specialising in international commercial arbitration and oil and gas industry litigation. He founded Uche Nwokedi & Co, a respected law firm.

In sports, he was the President of the Karate Federation of Nigeria from 2001 to 2005, leading the team to a medal in the 2003 Africa Games.

Nwokedi was a devoted family man, married with three children. He was also a devout Catholic, knighted by the Papal Knight of St. Sylvester, KSS.

Though Nwokedi lived a short life, it was a journey packed with so many memorable moments that both his immediate and extended family and friends and associates will never forget.

Nwokedi

Mandisa Zitha: Benson’s ‘Mothers of Chibok’

Offers a Patient Portrayal of

The festival director of Encounters South African International Documentary Film Festival, Mandisa Zitha, has critically praised Joel Kachi Benson’s ‘Mothers of Chibok’ which took the top prize, Best African Feature Documentary, at the festival on Sunday, June 29.

“‘Mothers of Chibok’ offers a patient portrayal of what it means to persist in spite of terror, personal loss, and indefinite longing,” said Zitha, adding that the jury’s statement articulates her own appreciation of the film.

“Framed gracefully in natural light, the director measures the passage of time from seed to harvest, exalting these women who — undeterred by fear — continue to cultivate the land so they can formally educate their children. The film receives the award for the aforementioned, and its delicate treatment of incorruptible love.”

‘Mothers of Chibok’ is a follow-up to Benson’s groundbreaking VR piece ‘Daughters of Chibok.’

Premiering earlier this year, the film gives voice to the enduring grief and

Persistence

resilience of the women whose daughters were abducted in the 2014 Chibok tragedy, reminding the world of a crisis still seeking closure. It builds on the legacy of ‘Daughters of Chibok,’ which won the Venice Lion for Best VR Story in 2019—the first for any African filmmaker in that category.

“Stories like ‘Madu’ and ‘Mothers of Chibok’ reinforce my belief that documentaries truly can change lives,” Benson shared.

At the festival screening, Zitha noted that the audience was particularly moved by the film’s role in shedding light on the lives of the women of Chibok—once at the centre of global headlines but now too often forgotten.

“There was particular curiosity about the women featured in the film: how the director found them, and what Joel Kachi Benson’s current relationship with them is. It was especially powerful to have Nigerian audience members prese nt, offering local context and urging that the stories of the boys affected by the conflict also be acknowledged. The film succeeded in reigniting meaningful dialogue around the Chibok tragedy, both

among Encounters audiences and in the media,” said Zitha.

With films like ‘Mothers of Chibok,’ Zitha said the Encounters festival is committed to serving as a platform to spotlight African documentaries and “help catapult them into regional and international festivals and markets through the visibility we offer.”

‘Mothers of Chibok’ win at Encounters comes on the heels of Benson’s historic Emmys triumph. He became the first Nigerian to win an Emmy after his Disney Original Documentary ‘Madu’ clinched the Emmy Award for Outstanding Arts and Culture Documentary at the 2025 News & Documentary Emmy Awards in New York City.

With both an Emmy and a continental grand jury prize in hand, Benson is solidifying his reputation as one of Africa’s leading impact storytellers. Through his Lagos-based production company, JB Multimedia Studios, he continues to challenge narratives, amplify unheard voices, and put Nigerian documentary filmmaking on the global map.

Football Stars Swap Boots for Banter in

Three Nigerian footballers, Victor Boniface, Wilfred Ndidi, and Frank Onyeka, are taking an unprecedented leap off the pitch to host a lifestyle talk show, ‘The Culture League’, developed by WEBEK Studios.

The show, which promises to be a dynamic fusion of sports and cultural commentary, was recently launched at the EbonyLife Place, drawing notable personalities including Nollywood star Osas Ighodaro, media veteran Daddy Freeze, reality TV stars Elozonam and Teddy A, popular sports journalist Wofai Fada, and a host of others, all converging to take a peek into the first episode.

The debut episode had the trio conversing with prominent Nigerian artist Falz and reality TV star Elozonam in a frank and engaging conversation. The episode delved into various topics, from sports and lifestyle to personal journeys, offering viewers an authentic glimpse into the discussions that will define the series.

“It was last December when I was talking to my co-founder, Edith. I said, ‘I don’t really watch football, and what I do know about the players is mostly from watching them on the pitch, or maybe the odd press conference.’

I’d never really seen what made them tick. So I said to her, ‘Why not bring them together for a roundtable chat, something fun, with banter?’ And that’s how we birthed this big idea and got to where we are now,” said the CEO of WEBEK Studios, Esse Akwawa.

Driven by a deep love for storytelling, the WEBEK team set out to feature the three players, though not without resistance. Understandably, they were hesitant to

Culture League’

step into unfamiliar territory. But that fear didn’t show in the final result.

“Working with Frank Onyeka, Wilfred Ndidi, and Victor Boniface, who are not just incredible footballers but absolute naturals on camera, has been a joy. They brought their real selves to the show, and that honesty and energy shaped everything. The show is the beginning of something fresh. It’s bold, rooted in culture, and unapologetically us,” concluded Creative Director of WEBEK Studios, Edith Nwekenta.

Iyke Bede

Kafayat Shafau, known widely as Kaffy, is laying the groundwork for a new era in Nigeria’s wellness space. On August 9, the Landmark Event Centre in Lagos will host the debut edition of ‘Transform with Kaffy’, a full-day fitness event that breaks from the typical bootcamp model, offering a more holistic experience that fuses physical conditioning with mental and emotional alignment.

While she’s best known for her record-breaking dance career, Kaffy’s journey in wellness began as far back as 1999, when she led early-morning fitness sessions at the National Stadium in Surulere. Over the years, that passion remained steady, even if less visible. With ‘Transform with Kaffy’, she’s moving it to the front of the stage.

The event comes under the umbrella of her newly unveiled Kaffy Incorporated, a formal structure housing long-standing and newer ventures, including Kaffy Kreative Agency, Kaffy Boss Academy IJODA Wellness, Cue Network Africa, Yanga Clothing & Costumes, and Kaffy Foundation. Digital platforms were also launched

as part of the a nnouncement.

Designed as more than a one-day experience, the event features breathwork sessions, strength circuits, trauma-informed coaching, nutrition education, and recovery programming — creating a 360-degree approach rarely seen in Nigerian fitness events.

“One thing I’ve learnt in the course of my 20-something years as a fitness enthusiast is that we are always one-sided about it,” Kaffy noted. “We are not usually holistic about it, and that’s because there is not a lot of information about it. And when there is, it’s done in pockets. Why can’t we have all that in one place and still have those elements of a fitness event?”

Helping bring this vision to life are collaborators like Ekemini Ekerette of Kemen Fitness; fitness coach and CEO of BenFit, Akinpelu Gbenga; famed health and wellness influencer Egemba Fidelis (Aproko Doctor), who will lead health briefings; and Osagioduwa Malkin (Oduwa), a musician and record label executive who’s also a partner on the project. Also joining the lineup are media mogul Mo Abudu and actress Nancy Isime. Ticket sales for the event open to the public on July 8.

For Nigerian dancer Peter Uzodinma, popularly known as PBrain, the fourth time was the charm. After years of near-misses, he blazed through the Red Bull ‘Dance Your Style’ regional qualifier, then dominated the national finals at Lagos’ Landmark Event Centre, securing his spot as Nigeria’s representative at the Global Finals in Los Angeles.

Persistent and passionate in his dance journey, he has reached the finals three previous times. He advanced well into the semifinals last year before losing to the winner Rage. This year, in the usual one-on-one mixedstyle battle format, PBrain competed as a wildcard against 15 other finalists selected from regional qualifiers in Abuja, Ibadan, Enugu, Port Harcourt, and Lagos.

In the round of eight, he faced one of two female dancers, Moronke, then advanced to meet the second, Chizzy, in a quarterfinal faceoff. There, he delivered a spicy routine to Britney Spears’ ‘Hit Me Baby One More Time’, winning over the crowd.

Also standing out at this stage were dancers Isoko OTG, Glitch, and Sosho Lee. Each left an impression on the crowd, tightening the race to the semifinals with a dose of finesse, agility, and stamina.

The semifinals paired Isoko OTG and Glitch in a tense, close match. An all-style dancer, Isoko OTG narrowly edged out Glitch, a freestyle specialist. Meanwhile, Sosho Lee — primarily a hip-hop dancer — pulled out all the stops, nearly snatching the crown. But in the final showdown, PBrain’s performance sealed his dominance as an all-style dancer.

“This is my fourth year trying out. To every dancer, it is possible. We had a workshop, and after the workshop, I was speaking to our guests in camp that this was my fourth year. I wasn’t sure if I was going to be a wildcard, but he said to me, ‘I know you’ve been coming for this, and I wish to battle you, and I know you’ll battle at the finals in LA,’” PBrain recalled, emotion written all over his face.

The Global Finals of Red Bull ‘Dance Your Style’ are scheduled for October 11, 2025.

Iyke Bede

Zitha

Joel Kachi Benson at Encounters festival

From left: Ekemini Ekerette (Kemen), CEO of BenFit Akinpelu Gbenga, Kafayat Shafau (Kaffy), Egemba Chinonso Fidelis (Aproko Doctor), Osagioduwa Malkin (Oduwa), and event host Titi Oyinsan, during the unveiling of ‘Transform with Kaffy’ in Lagos.

L-R: CEO of WEBEK Studios, Esse Akwawa; Super Eagles player, Frank Onyeka; and reality TV star, Elozonam, at the launch.

Vanessa Obioha

Iyke Bede

In fact, Akwawa described Boniface as “very hilarious” backstage.

Rewriting the Future of Nollywood

There’s a particular story that the filmmaker and director Chris Ihidero has always wanted to tell, one that captures the everyday life of the urban ghetto, an environment he knows all too well. Born in Oshodi, Lagos, Ihidero is no stranger to the gritty realities of inner-city life. Though he spent only seven years there, the experience left a lasting impression.

He vividly recalls ram-fighting contests at a secondary school and one particular ram that stood out.

“There was a major ram in all of Oshodi called Black Power because it was black. It had no white spots on its body. It was black and old. By the time I was born, the ram was already five years old. So by the time I grew up, it was 10. But it was the champion of the field, and it used to eat bread,” he said on a cloudy Friday morning at a bistro in Ikeja GRA, where we met.

Other moments from that time still linger such as watching area boys on the streets or learning to recite Quranic prayers taught to Muslim students.

hands and that he needed to develop his intellect so the world would listen when he speaks with confidence. This wisdom led him to writing.

“I would write an article per week in school. After a while, it became a must-read every Monday morning. And then I became an actor. We had a troupe called Optimum Arts Consortium, of which I was a member. It was also there I met the veteran actor Ropo Ewenla. Ropo and Tunji are like five and six, so they became my big brothers and my mentors. That formed my concerns for society.”

That ideology shapes the basis of the film he’s long wanted to make.

“I call it a love story in a time of war. A war between those who have and those who don’t. And those who’ve always taken from those who don’t. Then, you know, a boy and a girl from both sides fall in love in the middle.”

As he recounted these experiences, his passion was so palpable. Every word was deliberately punctuated as if his life depended on it, and every gesture carried a sense of urgency.

Ihidero is finally ready to tell this story. He began developing it in 2016, started writing during the pandemic, finished the first draft in 2023, and only began hinting at it publicly in February. Yet he remains tightlipped about the project.

“It’s taking so long for it to come to fruition. I wanted to make sure everything that I wanted to do was done the way I wanted to do it,” he explained.

“And you know that thing when you’ve done pretty much everything,” he continued, reeling out productions he has spearheaded, such as the MTV Base Foundation lifestyle series ‘Shuga.’ He was also the head writer/editor of MNet’s TV drama ‘Hush’ and even directed Nigeria’s first animation, ‘Lady Buckit and the Motley Monsters.’ “But you get to a point in your career, and you know that this one, if I can deliver this one the way I think I can, this is it.”

Even more compelling, he gets to set the film in his favourite world.

“It’s set in an urban ghetto. When we think of a ghetto, we think of Ajegunle or Amukoko, but Fadeyi is a ghetto. Shomolu is a ghetto. Oshodi is a ghetto, but more urban. So this story is set in an urban ghetto, right? All the experiences I had as a kid growing up in these places are there.

“And then I schooled in Ijebu-Ode which is a glorified ghetto. Some of my classmates had either failed at other privileged schools here or in England, and their parents just dumped them in my school or even wanted them to have a Nigerian experience. They would dump them in this place where you had to survive.

To him, the world will always be unbalanced.

“That’s why the idea of heaven is alluring,” he added. Still, he doesn’t believe in escapism.

“Every time we are happy, sadness is at the door. Every time we are sad, happiness is at the window. I think that where we find peace is in acknowledging the unfairness and then trying our best as individuals, as a collective, and as a society, to make the impact of that imbalance, that unfairness to be less on the underprivileged in society, I think that we miss the mark when we think that we can create an equal society. It does not exist anywhere.”

As principal photography begins and post-production is planned across Europe, Ihidero is taking an unconventional approach to promoting his film. Rather than sharing too many details, he’s been speaking more broadly about industry challenges such as NTA’s decline, and his views on funding in Nollywood. We revisited the latter against the backdrop of the presumed exit of streaming platforms Netflix and Amazon.

In his view, Nollywood’s global relevance is undeniable but filmmakers need to rethink their business model.

“Historically, Nollywood tends to face one direction at every time. So, let’s go back to when Nollywood kicked off. Our major outlets were the markets: Alaba market, Upper Iweka, Pound Road, Onitsha market. Those were our outlets through VCDs. And then when that stopped working, it became Africa Magic. If you didn’t sell your film to Africa Magic at that time, you had no outlet, because piracy was significant.

“After a while, Africa Magic licensing fee became what it became. And iROKO came on board. Jason (Njoku) went to Alaba, bought those 4000 films and kicked off iROKO which became the place you went to, right? As iROKO tailed off, came the cinemas. If you did not take your film to the cinema, you had no other model of distribution. And then the cinemas did their own thing. They put the films that they liked there. They have blah, blah, blah, blah, all of those things happened.

“And then Netflix and Amazon came and became the focus. So, at every point in time, we are facing one direction, and what that means is that your risk keeps increasing. If that one thing is pulled away, then you fall which is why everybody is now making it look like Netflix and Amazon pulling back is a big deal. The Yorubas will say that before corn was invented, the chicken ate something. What is it that we were eating before Netflix and Amazon were invented? We were not starving. We may be at a different level, but we’re not starving.”

For the filmmaker who is also the CEO of PinPoint Media, the real way forward is investment, not grants.

“That was my world.”

The street became even more familiar during his secondary school years. It was then he earned the nickname ‘No Bone’ because, as he puts it:

“I used to dance as if there was no bone in my body.”

He was also described as a brilliant but rebellious student.

“I refused to wear trousers as a senior student. It makes no sense to me to wear trousers just because I’m a senior, does that make the junior ones who wear shorts lesser beings?”

This rebellion, he clarified, wasn’t born from pride but from concern for the underprivileged. He now calls such actions “stupid” in hindsight.

“I’m the kind of person that during rallies, I would hold a policeman’s gun and tell him that he can’t do anything, which was stupid because if I had been shot, nothing would have happened.”

As he matured, Ihidero learned a different kind of activism, one shaped by Professor Tunji Azeez of Lagos State University. From him, he discovered that the brain is a mightier weapon than the

“There was no seniority in my secondary school, if you’re in SS3 and an SS2 boy can beat you, the SS2 boy begins to roll with the seniors. It’s what it is. It was a jungle. The concerns of the poor have always been on my mind because I didn’t grow up rich. We were not poor, but we were not rich. We survived from time to time.”

A graduate of Literature-in-English from Lagos State University (LASU), Ihidero is very passionate about filmmaking having had the opportunity to learn from the late Amaka Igwe in 2007. He has directed over 100 hours on TV and made the award-winning short film about rape ‘Big Daddy.’ Before he veered into filmmaking, he worked as a theatre artist, a journalist both in the broadcast and print media and a university lecturer.

Like his mentor Igwe, most of his films centre on everyday people, capturing the inequalities in society.

“My teacher, the late Amaka Igwe used to say that you can’t write yourself out of your reality,” he said. “Therefore, every time you write, you are writing yourself, whether you know it or not. So you would see reflections of me, but more than that, it’s my concerns about society. How have the poor remain perpetually poor, while the rich keep getting richer? And when the poor have a little, the rich still take. Why do we allow it? And if we were going to fight, who should we be? Can our fight be true?”

“You cannot grow a creative industry through grants, because when you give people grants, they become comfortable. An industry is grown by people who are uncomfortable,” he argued.

“What we need to grow the industry is investment. An investment that requires the filmmaker in whom the investment has been made to return the money.”

He emphasized the need for investor accountability: “I am making a film now that an investment company has raised the money for me. Part of that money is equity, and part of it is debt. So I have to return that money, and because of that, it is going to have a bearing on what script I write, on how I cast, on how I shoot, because it is an investment vehicle.”

Many of the values and principles Ihidero lives by are those he learnt from his mentors, especially the late Igwe. He rarely speaks of the industry or his craft without mentioning her. Such respect is so rare that it’s almost unbelievable that one can leave such a lasting imprint on another soul. But for Ihidero, he is a proud protégé of the legendary storyteller. The film, he said, will be dedicated to her.

“A lot of people knew Amaka Igwe as the writer, producer and director. A lot of people did not know her as a person. If people knew her as a person, they would realise that the last thing she wants is anybody publicly honouring her. She was a very shy person even though she had a public face.

“The greatest honour I can give her is to make an amazing film,” he concluded.

Ihidero

HighLife

Osahon Okunbo

Becomes His Own Man

There comes a moment, quiet and profound, when a son stands tall not in the shadow of his father, but beside it. For Osahon Okunbo, that moment has arrived.

Heir to the towering legacy of the late Captain Hosa Okunbo, Osahon has long worn the weight of his surname like a tailored coat: elegant, distinguished, but undeniably inherited. Now, with steady hands and a vision of his own, he begins the work of threading his own initials into Nigeria’s national tapestry.

Chairman of the Wells Carlton Hotel and Apartments and steward of multiple enterprises across sectors from oil to agriculture, Okunbo is not just keeping the family flame alive. He is reshaping it into a torch. His endeavours, particularly through The Osahon Okunbo Foundation, suggest a heart not just tuned to profit, but to promise.

This July, he will bring together 20 artists, double the originally intended cohort, for a masterclass in classical painting. With support from the Belgian Embassy and Legacy Arts Foundation, this initiative is less about prestige than possibility. One suspects this isn’t just about art. It’s about building cultural, professional, and ethical frameworks that allow talent to climb rather than crawl.

Okunbo’s fingerprints are also visible in quieter places: community schools, environmental cleanups, carefully reviewed memos, and the steely confidence of colleagues who feel they are part of something precise and purposeful. He reads everything, approves nothing in haste, and expects excellence not out of tyranny but out of belief.

He is still young by most metrics, but old enough to know that great legacies are not inherited fully formed. They are curated, sometimes quietly, always deliberately.

And so, while the memory of Captain Hosa remains deeply etched in Nigeria’s civic consciousness, his son is no longer simply the bearer of that name. Osahon is writing his own chapters now: inked with intent, bound by service, and opened with grace.

with KAYODE ALFRED 08116759807, E-mail: kayflex2@yahoo.com

rich and famous Shettima and the Sound of Footsteps

There is something oddly Shakespearean about the current whispers in Abuja. A vice president hears the rustling of ambition behind closed doors, and the floor seems to shift beneath his well-polished shoes. Whether Kashim Shettima will be on the APC ticket in 2027 is now more of a riddle than a fact. And the guessing game is loud.

Posters have begun surfacing regarding President Bola Tinubu and a rotation of possible running mates. Not officially sanctioned, of course, but the message is unmistakable: there’s movement in the wings.

Some call it strategic flexing; others see it as the beginning of a soft goodbye. What is most certain of it all is that Shettima’s status, once presumed unshakable, has turned speculative. A curious statement from the APC’s own North-east Vice Chairman didn’t help. According to him, the choice of running mate is up to the president, and not

up for early discussion. Innocuous? Maybe. But in Nigeria’s political grammar, omission speaks volumes. Presidents don’t usually swap VPs midstream. Unless they plan to.

And what about Tinubu himself? Well, this is a man who prefers his allies in motion, often in competition, rarely comfortable. If the vice president is not guaranteed a place on the ticket, it may not be about disloyalty; it could just be politics at its coldest setting.

Still, this is a high-wire act, as thinkers have pointed out. Replace Shettima, and there’s the risk of backlash from the north. Keep him, and it might limit new alliances. Add to that the list of rumoured alternatives, from governors to technocrats, and the picture grows even murkier.

Yet for now, Shettima remains quiet, composed, and loyal—at least publicly. That may be his strongest card. In a season of scheming and second-guessing, sometimes the one who says the least says the most.

Ifedayo Abegunde: The Asiwaju Crown and a Life Woven in Service

On the eve of his 70th birthday, while the rest of the world sent flowers and praise, the ancient kingdom of Akure did something far more timeless. It offered a crown.

In a ceremony drenched in culture and symbolism, His Royal Majesty, Oba Aladetoyinbo Aladelusi, conferred the venerable title of Asiwaju of Akure on Honourable Ifedayo Abegunde and his wife, Olajumoke. It was not merely a gift of beads and blessings, but a proclamation: this son of the soil now stands among the highest stewards of tradition.

To Akure’s people, Abegunde is no stranger to honour. From the corridors of the United States Patent Office to Nigeria’s National Assembly, and now as Executive Director of Corporate Services at the Niger Delta Development Commission, his journey has been

Obasa: A Cat with Nine Lives Marks a Decade at the Helm

In Lagos, where politics rarely allows for long leases, Speaker Mudashiru Obasa has done the improbable: he’s survived ten years as the iron-willed conductor of Nigeria’s most influential legislative chamber.

That’s no metaphor. Just this January, Obasa was ousted in what lawmakers called a clean sweep. A new speaker was sworn in. Gavel passed. Then the courts struck—and so did Obasa. By March, he was back in his seat, with a legal ruling, N500,000 in damages, and a political swagger that borders on feline.

First elected in 2003 at 31, Obasa has transformed from an eager legislator to the state’s longest-serving Speaker, presiding over a house that’s passed laws fueling Lagos’ economic ascent: from safety corps to pandemic response and even mental health reform. His Agege base, once a chaotic sprawl, now bears signs of his infrastructural ambition. As the state’s GDP balloons north of $250 billion, few dispute that the legislature has kept pace, sometimes even led.

But Obasa’s legacy is a curious cocktail: one part lawmaker, one part survivor. His courtaffirmed return earlier this year was no accident. The impeachment lacked legal spine. The signatures were off. The rules were bent. And when the judiciary stepped in, they did so with clarity: the process was unconstitutional, the ousting void, the comeback valid.

He is not without flaws, nor critics. Allegations of impropriety linger, and his assertive leadership style has drawn heat. Still, across six terms and one abrupt interregnum, he has remained a constant: defiant, strategic, and always within striking distance of the centre.

In a political terrain often shaped by loyalty and betrayal, Obasa has become something else entirely: durable. Neither scandals nor schemers nor short-term mutinies have managed to stick. Ten years in, he is still writing the rules and rewriting the script of what longevity looks like in Nigerian politics.

For now, the gavel rests in his hand. Again.

stitched with quiet resolve and enduring grace.

They call him Abena or For the People—a moniker that has stuck not for its poetry but its precision. His record bears it out: community empowerment, legislative diligence, and administrative discipline. He has chaired committees, reimagined infrastructure, and cultivated partnerships that bridge the grassroots and the elite.

Born in 1955 and schooled in Florida and Baltimore, Abegunde’s foundation in engineering and architecture shaped more than his career. It infused his politics with form and function. Vision with utility. His work in governance is rarely loud but always layered. A blueprint builder, even in matters of public trust.

Now, as Asiwaju, he steps into a role shaped not by appointment but by ancestry, not by election but by esteem. It is, in many ways, the natural arc of a life given to duty.

Akeredolu’s Last Chapter: Mystery, Memory, and the Murmur of Justice

In the quiet corners of Akure and far beyond, the echoes of December 2023 still linger. The passing of former Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu stirred more than sorrow, advancing towards suspicion. Eighteen months on, those whispers have grown into formal petitions, and now, a coroner’s inquest may follow.

The Ondo State Attorney General, Dr. Olukayode Ajulo, finds himself at the intersection of law and legacy. With careful cadence, he reminded the public that the Coroners Law is not some decorative relic but a tool of justice, ready to be wielded when questions outweigh conclusions.

“There are concerns,” Ajulo admitted. “And where concerns rise, the law must walk.”

Among the petitions submitted, some pointed with unsettling specificity to the widow, Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, who once stood unshaken beside her husband through political storms. Now, she finds herself named, not celebrated, but scrutinised.

The gravity of that transition is not lost on anyone watching. Yet, in the measured tones of legalese and due process, there lies a stormy emotional undertow. How do you question a widow without turning grief into theatre? When does a quest for clarity become a stage for vendetta?

Ajulo insists the process will remain clinical. “Let the law lead,” he said,

sidestepping the temperature of speculation with the caution of a man walking a tightrope.

Still, it is difficult to ignore the cultural and political implications. This is not just about a man who died; it is about a legacy interrupted, a family under a microscope, and a state caught between reverence and restlessness.

In truth, coroner’s laws are designed for precisely these moments: when silence feels staged and closure remains elusive.

But as Ondo opens this delicate file, all eyes turn toward the balance it must now strike. Between truth and tact. Between justice and respect. Between letting a great man rest and asking why he had to.

Abegunde

Akeredolu

Okunbo

Shettima

Obasa

July 5, the home of

not with the glitter of billionaires but with the quiet grace

Sholaye

Jeremi’s Quiet Gospel of Giving

of gratitude. While many of his peers toast with fireworks and fanfare, the oil magnate known for keeping his private life under velvet wraps devotes the day to the ones so easily overlooked.

From the high corridors of Nigeria’s energy industry to the humble quarters of Delta State, Jeremi is admired for his quiet command and clear conscience. And yet, it is this annual rite, his birthday, that lays bare what truly stirs his spirit. It is not the champagne, nor the symphony of well-wishers. It is his long-standing tradition of sharing that celebration with the underprivileged.

This year was no different. Food, clothing, and funds moved like blessings through communities often left behind. Children received more than gifts—they received recognition. Widows were not just remembered—they were embraced. Hospitals whispered thanks in corridors where medicine had once run dry.

When the Bull Walked in: Mike Adenuga’s

Unlikely Cameo at Bright Igbinedion’s Birthday

It takes something or someone exceptional to lure Dr. Mike Adenuga from his carefully guarded privacy. But last weekend in Lekki, the reclusive billionaire, affectionately dubbed “The Bull,” made a rare appearance that stunned even Lagos’ most unshockable elite.

The occasion? The birthday celebration of Bright Igbinedion, a man whose name rings through Edo corridors like a familiar hymn. The setting was stately, the company distinguished, but it was Adenuga’s quiet entrance that made the night unforgettable. No fanfare. No entourage. Just grace in motion and humility in high-definition.

Adenuga, who has built a fortress around his public image almost as securely as he’s built telecom and oil empires, was seen bowing gently to greet old friends and

African Democratic Congress

was never supposed to be the belle of the political ball. Long relegated to the periphery, the party had little more than a poetic name and a patchwork base. But

new admirers alike. He didn’t say much. He didn’t have to. His presence alone was the conversation.

Social media, naturally, had a field day. Clips of the Globacom chairman smiling broadly, even dancing lightly, spiralled across timelines. “Make me a humble billionaire, Lord,” one user prayed with a mix of humour and awe. “This must be a very, very special family,” another wrote, summing up the consensus: you don’t summon the Bull unless bonds run deep.

Others in attendance included former Governors Lucky Igbinedion and James Ibori, whose collective decades in Nigeria’s political theatre added a certain gravitas. But even in such esteemed company, it was Adenuga, low-key, unadorned, very human, who left the deepest imprint.

What inspires such a gesture in a man who could simply stay cloaked in comfort? Those who know him speak of a mother, Madam Lilian Jeremi, whose life was an unbroken benediction of service. Her loss in May still casts a gentle shadow, but her teachings echo louder. Her son, shaped by her kindness, carries that gospel forward.

There are no press releases. No camera crews. Just quiet acts, repeated yearly, rooted in belief. Jeremi often says that wealth, unless shared, is little more than an illusion.

In a world swollen with spectacle, Jeremi offers a counterexample. His birthday is not merely a personal milestone. It is a recurring parable on the power of generosity. A day when oil does not just flow from wells but from the heart of a man who understands that blessings grow only when they are given.

Adenuga

ADC: Coalition Without Coordination

politics, like rainfall in Lagos, often rewards the most unlikely puddle. Suddenly, everyone’s umbrella is pointing toward ADC.

This week, a host of opposition titans, names like Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and Nasir El-Rufai, descended upon Abuja and crowned the ADC as the vessel for their 2027 redemption dreams. With grand speeches and recycled symbolism, they announced a merger. New chairs were named. An interim secretary was picked. Photo ops captured smiles. And yet, inside the ADC, the music was off-key.

While elder statesmen posed for unity, the actual custodians of the party were lighting warning flares. One faction cried foul, dismissing the gathering as political theatre without choreography. They hadn’t been invited. They hadn’t been consulted. And now, they say, the party risks being turned into a Trojan horse for elite ambition.

One of the party’s spokesmen voiced what many in the base had whispered: it wasn’t so much a coalition as it was a

Lekan Fatodu: Stretching The Sports Canvas Wider

In a city known more for bumper-tobumper traffic and booming nightlife than backhands and bowstrings, Lekan Fatodu is betting big on sport. And not just the kind played under floodlights or on crowded pitches. Think fencing. Think archery. Think speedboats skimming through Lekki waters while expatriates sip coconut water from the sidelines. This is Lagos, reimagined.

As Director General of the Lagos State Sports Commission, Fatodu is not merely running drills. He is orchestrating a quiet revolution, one fuelled by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s vision of sports not just as a pastime, but as policy. From grassroots to grandeur, Fatodu is stretching the sports canvas wider than it’s ever been.

At the heart of the strategy is a bottom-up pipeline. Talents are scouted from schools, finessed through community facilities, and nurtured with enough care to turn local

promise into global performance. The state is investing not only in playgrounds but in character, weaving soft skills like punctuality and teamwork into every pass and push-up.

And then there’s the tourism playbook. Lagos is not just marketing itself as the pulse of Afrobeats, but as the continent’s rising capital of sports tourism. The Teslim Balogun Stadium will soon host an archery range. Jet skiing, motor sports, and even flight boarding now have a seat at the table—next to jollof rice and suya skewers, of course.

Fatodu’s ambition doesn’t end at winning medals. It extends to wooing the private sector, which had long drifted from public partnerships. Now, firms like Tecno and Parallex Bank are investing again, not for charity, but for strategy. In sports, Lagos sees not only identity, but industry.

That he once served as a communications strategist is clear. Fatodu speaks not in slogans

In the Ajah neighbourhood of Lagos, amid harmonies of high praise and rustling robes, something deeper than a birthday party stirred. It was a celebration, yes, but not of years alone. It was the honouring of a life stretched thin in devotion, poured out like an offering.

Rev. Chris Christian turned 60. The number glowed, diamond-bright. But the substance of the moment pulsed elsewhere: in the testimonies, the tears, the swelling choir, and in the quiet resolve of a man who’s spent more than three decades shepherding souls from Kano to Cape Town.

parasitic occupation. According to him, the declaration of new leadership lacked constitutional approval. No vote. No NEC ratification. No grassroots mandate. Just velvet chairs filled with familiar faces, trying to borrow legitimacy.

What was meant to be a grand alliance now looks like a wedding without the bride’s consent. The ADC is divided, with one half offering the altar and the other barring the door. Worse still, legal ghosts from 2023 continue to haunt the party. Pending lawsuits remain unresolved, and some warn that any new arrangement is built on judicial quicksand.

For a coalition meant to symbolise rebirth, this one already seems fragile. The message is clear: unity cannot be outsourced. It must be cultivated. Otherwise, what’s dressed up as coordination is little more than a scramble: old power in new packaging, fumbling for cohesion in a room that’s already split.

but in frameworks, and his game plan is methodical. Sport, for him, is Lagos’ next big export. And with Sanwo-Olu’s backing, he’s turning play into a platform, talent into currency, and recreation into reinvention.

Born two years before the Biafran War, Christian wears his scars like scriptures. The war marked his childhood; the ministry marked everything after. In 1996, with little more than revelation and resolve, he founded Locust Army Ministries in a single room in Kano. Today, that vision has grown into an international movement, with branches across Nigeria and abroad, including a prayer fortress in Umuchu known simply as Galilee.

His followers call him The People’s Shepherd. But there’s nothing casual about that title. Christian has written over 400 books, taken an oath of poverty, and lives as a self-declared eunuch, claiming a life stripped of worldly attachments to focus solely on heaven’s business. His theology is steep, his sermons long, his goals eternal. He speaks of the “eighth man,” the immortal church, and the scrolls of Judah, like others speak of weather or football.

At Sunday’s celebration, tributes flooded in. Members praised his mentorship, his discipline, and his defiance of convention. Visiting clerics, local leaders, and global guests sat under the vaulted ceiling of Locust Army’s headquarters as the man of the hour stood, unflinching, quoting Revelation, reminding everyone that the race was not yet over.

He spoke of immortality, of readiness, of the church needing less performance and more presence. And then, in the middle of the music and memory, he simply smiled. Sixty looks small beside a calling so large.

Jeremi

The

(ADC)

Mark

Fatodu

Christian

Every

Sholaye Jeremi swells

Atuwatse III: The Regal King of Now

All I know about this lady is that instead of facing school that her papa sent her, she was distracted by one handsome Yoruba boy who married her and made her First lady of the very proud Ondo State. Since the late Akeredolu passed, Madam Betty has not let Ondo people drink water. But then again, do Ondo people really want to drink water? This fixation with the widow is really beating my imagination. Mbok, I have just seen a write-up ascribed to my WhatsApp friend, Ajulo purportedly saying that the state government may commence a probe as to the death of their late governor, Akeredolu. I am not surprised because if you are on Ajulo’s WhatsApp, you will be wondering if “he get work.” The messages never stop coming – birthday, essays, reports, appointments, jokes, everything hits you per second, and you would be wondering – no be Commissioner and Attorney-General be this? Anyways, it is looking like it is this “too much time to spare” that would be most likely bringing about this

A lady called a traditional ruler Baby King and his subjects started pouring Seamans aromatic schnapps on the floor, wringing chicken neck and dancing around naked on the street, laying curses on the woman. It is things like this that would make me not say what I really feel about our traditional institutions in Nigeria as I no get juju to repeal any curse. Anyways, the beautiful thing is that in the midst of the “shambles” there lies the regal, widely respected and overwhelmingly distinguished Olu of Warri. Atuwatse III has brought much more than panache to the throne of his forefathers. He has restored a lot of dignity to the throne, thereby heaping a lot of pride not only on his subjects but to the rest of the country, and I daresay the world.

The other day he was hosted by FIFA and the pictures that came out of that episode brought me very close to tears.

I simply just love this monarch – his carriage,

report. Abi how else can we rationally explain this one? The same Governor Akeredolu who was globally ill and we all joined hands to pray for him. As he tried to hide his state of health to cling to power, we all stood aside and prayed for him. We all supported the change of power in favour of the incumbent so that the man could go and focus on his health.

So today, because the “poor” widow is shaking baba, baba is all of a sudden wanting to probe to see if “mummy” had a hand in the death according to the report that I have seen.

Mbok, if you watch crime fighters very well, the first step in solving a crime, especially murder or anything like that, is to first check who has benefitted from that crime. So, if we look at this “purported crime,” who really benefitted from it? Is it the widow who has lost warmth in her bed or…?

Mbok make una leave me this morning. I am looking for school fees, not someone that will file a defamation suit against me like they did to Dele Farotimi. That one juju will fight juju.

Please, let Betty Akeredolu be, she is

his very strong good looks, his powerful attires – I hear it is my egba friend who is behind some of those attires. Much more importantly, his detached, positive arrogance towards issues and engagements stands him out as the true face of modern Nigerian monarchy.

I once visited him in his huge and beautiful Palace in Warri.

The way we were received, coached and the engagement in itself left us with so much awe that we retired to one buka down the road, and over bowls of banga and starch discussed, still in fear, what we just experienced.

I just say make I hail you this morning “baba.” May your reign be long, may you continue to lead the renaissance that you have been destined to lead and may you dash me one of those robes – the one you no dey wear again, make I use am pose for Shomolu. Ogiame Suo!!!!

widow – no be she cause Ondo problem. Come and beat me.

DAVID MARK: RETURN OF THE MARK Boredom has brought David Mark out of purgatory to the national stage. He has left palm wine and long days of boredom playing ludo and drinking whatever they drink in his village - when Fulani herdsmen are not pursuing them - to come and snatch a job as interim chairman of the latest caricature of a party. It is very clear where my sentiments lie in this Nigeria. Me, I am opposed to Tinubu and in my sleep, if you wake me, I will tell you that. Even if it means you are coming to beat me. But this one that “comedians” are coming out of the woodwork to pretend to be forming a coalition to “wrestle” power just grates me to no end.

This Mark sef has personalised all that is wrong in leadership in this country. A leadership that is laced with personalised, self-interest as fuel in public service cannot be an alternative to the fire that is burning in this country.

What has Mark really brought to

the table in his sojourn in power –from coup, to governor, to minister to senator to one of the longest serving Senate presidents? What has he marked in this country that he will now come out of restive retirement and at that age to come and be croaking in a leprose coalition? What we need to topple this president is much more than walking stick, denture mouthed, wobbly-legged old men who have passed their sell by date and who will be relying on nostalgia and diminishing stolen resources as veritable weapons. What we need is vibrancy, clarity of thought, a selfless engagement of the people to create a tsunami of discontent and now direct this huge wave towards the ballot box. This is why Nigeria needs me, I tell you. Wait let me finish eating afang, I will come and give this Tinubu a run of his money, and when I finish, he will tell me well done. Not these ones, and certainly not David mark. Kai.

SIM FUBARA: A HEROIC WITHERING Anytime I see this man, what comes to my mind is a withering “john thomas.” You know when you are faced with a sinfully beautiful damsel,

BETTY AKEREDOLU: THORN IN THEIR FLESH

just a harmless

Mark Fubara

Edgar Akeredolu

Atuwatse III

lying in the bed there waiting for you, legs spread and the thing just no gree wake up. You do everything within your powers and nothing. Kai, the engine no gree start and the more frantic you get, the more the thing is disappearing. You find yourself in what I want to call a “Sim Fubara” state of mind.

A “Sim Fubara” state of mind is when the willingness is there, anger is sufficiently strong but the power to insert and fight no just dey. When I saw the purported conditions, I said to myself, even an eunuch from my village Nsit Ubiom will never agree to this kind of conditions. If the conditions are what they say they are and Fubara agreed to them, then he is what we used to call in Shomolu -orobo su fe. For those of you who are not Yoruba, please ask your landlord’s widow to interpret for you. This was a bloody waste of time, this person has no single strand of leadership in his veins. He just came, saw and agreed to be humiliated for the lucre of office. For this one, history or legacy are not words in his lexicon. All I have at this pity. Thank you.

A THORNY ROAD TO FREE SPEECH FOR SPEED DARLINGTON

This one, I have to be very careful because the matter is very sensitive. Let me rehash- so this loudmouth goes on social media to boast of sleeping with an underaged. As expected, social media goes berserk asking for his head – how can he say that, even if he did not do it, he still cannot say that and the noise gets to NAPTIP whose job it is to also protect the underage and they summoned him. The loudmouth refused to honour the invitation and he has been declared wanted with a bounty of about N50million (not confirmed) on his head. Loudmouth comes out to say that “irresponsible speech is not a crime,” and as such, if they really want him, they should pay him an appearance fee and buy his ticket. Now this is my position and for the first time in my tatafo career I have to really choose my words. NAPTIP is in a good position summoning him. It is within their jurisdiction and rights to react to such an abrasive statement and they must follow through, especially the fact that a minor(s) could be in danger or may have been abused or sexually exploited. The statutes that set them up justifies this. But that said, the man’s claim that there is no victim, no petition and no crime committed makes the whole thing “one kind.” Can there be a murder with no victim? Till date nobody has come out to say they were molested by Speedy and to the best of my knowledge, no petition or complaint except social media rants.

So, for me, all things being equal, this is a test of freedom of speech and as loudmouth has asked – is irresponsible talk a crime? I really think that stakeholders and experts should calm down and look at this matter very carefully because it goes straight to our constitutionally enshrined rights of free speech and also tries to impinge on the constitutionally enshrined rights of protection of the minor. It is not a straightforward case for both sides and that is why we don’t need “gra gra” for this matter. I think a panel of enquiry be set up to look very closely at this matter and submit the report to the

President for due consideration and till then, NAPTIP please withdraw that your hasty poster declaring Speedy wanted and let’s look at this thing critically.

KOFI ABUNU: A CHICKEN DELIGHT

Let me quickly hail this man. He is the MD of the firm that owns the popular franchise - Chicken Republic. Kai, they have just announced stupendous results. A whopping N95 billion for the year ended 2024. This is remarkable because they are coming from N3.6 billion in 2014 and before then, they were in a loss position. Baba says that the result was as a result of some strategic moves

involving eclectic use of energy, power, sexy pricing, marketing survey and much more importantly, nobody is thieving. You see, the issue with our businesses is the penchant for its promoters to be using the cash flows to fund lifestyle. This eats into the capital and the company will start suffering and they will now be shouting Tinubu. It is very clear that this Food Concept people know what they are doing and it is paying off.

WALE

BABALAKIN:

A GENTLEMAN, PHILOSOPHER

During the week, it was Daddy’s 65th and it was an open house. This

ABDULLAHI GANDUJE AND THE FRAIL NATURE OF POWER

I just read a backstory of the intrigues behind the inevitable sack of this gentleman. After going through the report, the fragility of power hit me once again. That is how we will be looking at these people with awe, thinking that they have all of the power in the world but not knowing the “chickens” that they truly are. For this one, the report tells us how he has been running to beg and beg to retain his post as the powerful Chairman of the biggest party in Africa. From Akande, to Uzodimma and Akume, this person has been groveling, begging, cutting deals, offering “virgins” to keep his seat.

The fragile foundations of power can only stem from the fact that ideology is no longer the vehicle of choice but a patrimony of rent, self-interest and the personification of power. This throws up “mumu” people who rely on others for their hold on power. When you now throw these characters into power, they can only do what they know how to do – pillage, bend, break the rules and line their pockets. When this is the case, they become pliable and what you get is the mass defection that has now turned our democracy into

the seeming one-party monster it is turning into.

Can you imagine an Obafemi Awolowo running to beg anybody to retain his position or a Sardauna doing the same? Can you imagine a Nelson Mandela going to beg Bisi Akande for anything or a Sam Mbakwe? What we have today are no more than political mercenaries who only know how to plunder for themselves and that is how it is so easy to get them out because there is no base, no foundation, no foothold. Do you guys remember during the days of the military how we used to fear a very powerful general? They will be saying –ahhh this is the one that is the power behind the throne, this is the one that is holding the gover nment and head of state, and one day they will retire him and all you see is him in safari suit queuing for pension.

Mbok, how can a “popular” former Governor of the large Kano State and Chairman of such a powerful APC just be “sacked” like that with no whimper from his group? The reason is simple na, the man was not a man of ideology, he was just a “kunu” politician – what manner health reasons

was my second time of invading his beautiful home in two months. My accomplice, Mr. Macalabi will give me information – Duke there is an open house and when you get to the gate, flash me and I will come to the gate and take you in.

We have done this style twice now to a huge success. This time around, Oga said “Duke buy something,” and I replied, “Me wey never pay school fees, wetin I go give a billionaire?” He did not give up. “E no good, every time we come here and chop and not give him anything.” I said, “Ok, wetin we go give am,” and he suggested buying fabrics that he can make agbada with. I screamed “Oga, you live near Banana Island, me I dey near Shomolu, I should come and buy lace because of one plate of ofada that I am going to eat. Please let me go and buy him a book.” So, I went and bought him a biography of King Sunny Ade for N15,000, my chop money for the day, and invaded again.

This time I was lucky as I sat beside my brother Seyi Akinwunmi and ate ofada rice, fried rice and plenty of snails. I also drank watermelon juice and orange juice and took cake. So, it was a strong return on investment. I spent N15,000 and ate over N100,000 worth of food. Who says Nigeria does not have a good investment climate?

Anyways, I saw many beautiful and brilliant people. Mr. Odiachi, Pastor Ituah’s partner who refused to mention his name, Rufai Oseni was there and too many big people to mention.

Dr Babalakin is a personal hero of mine because of what he is doing in education amongst others. Let me seize this opportunity to wish him a beautiful long life in good health and too many more achievements. Let me also thank the very beautiful Mrs. Babalakin who says he reads this column for being such a wonderful hostess. The food was something else Mummy, when can we come again so I can bring takeaway packs?

JOSEPH EDGAR: THE AFANG CHRONICLES

By the time you read this, my birthday would have passed. I would have clocked the ripe old age of 56 and may start dancing like Wike and also croak like him.

Life has not been easy, but God has blessed me with good health, good looks and a huge appetite for Afang, that wonderful soup that has led to many unwanted pregnancies.

As is the case every year, I had asked my friends, political opponents including members of APC and the new ADC to donate to my favourite cause – widows’ empowerment. I have received a massive response and I thank God for my friends who have helped me put a smile on the faces of some widows.

The prayer is to look as good as RMD, skinny like Mudi, rich like Dangote and be as foxy as Donald Duke as I approach 60 with reluctant verve.

Let me seize this opportunity to thank you the readers of the column because it’s not easy to be reading my jargons every week despite the massive headache it will be causing you guys.

Let me also thank the Editor who edits the column with panadol in his pocket and be saying - Edgar, I dey read your column three times... It can’t be easy. Anyways, let me sign off here as I need to run. Thanks and God bless you all.

Joseph Edgar: The Afang Chronicles.

Ganduje

Senator Ben Murray-Bruce’s Heartache

The story of the development of Nigeria’s entertainment industry would be incomplete without a generous mention of Ben Murray-Bruce.

Without doubt, the former Bayelsa Stateborn senator can be described as being among the pathfinders that added glamour to the entertainment industry in the country.

His beauty pageant, Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria, MBGN, changed the story and outlook of beauty competition and added flavour that launched Nigeria into the global map.

Also, his contribution to the development and rebranding of broadcasting media could be well described as exceptional. His Silverbird Galleria is also a one-stop arena for entertainment in the country.

In politics, he was described as a fresh breath because of his talent and outstanding achievements; a far away from the normal Nigeria’s politicians that lacked fresh ideas.

However, at the moment, the showbiz guru is not happy and having a heartache, which has also affected his integrity with a blot on his hard earned reputation.

man of many parts approached the Union Bank to obtain a loan for business purposes. But many years of his being unable to pay back the loan has reportedly affected the capital base of the bank.

In 2016, The Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) took over the assets of three companies belonging to former lawmaker, Silverbird Galleria Limited, Silverbird Promotions Limited, and Silverbird Showtime Limited after he failed to settle the loan that has shot up to the tune of N11billion.

The takeover followed the interim orders granted by Justice Cecilia Olatoregun-Ishola of the Federal High Court, Lagos, which allowed the Receiver/Manager to take possession of the said properties.

Since then, he has been running from pillar to post to wriggle himself out of the debt problems, but to no avail. However, the more he tried, the more he literally got stuck in the debt mud.

Last week, the matter got uglier as AMCON put the three gigantic building up for sale.

The ugly development became a stigma on his reputation and subsequently exposed his Achilles’

If anyone had told Senator Iyiola Omisore that he wouldn’t succeed his boss, Bisi Akande, way back in 1999, he would have dismissed it with a swift wave of the hand, and probably called the fellow a liar. This is because before his political career suffered a precipice of sorts, Omisore was one of the most popular politicians in Osun State, not because of his position as deputy governor, but of his wealth, generosity, powers and supposed political know-how. He was so rich that he contributed in no small measure to the governorship election of the governor in the Alliance for Democracy (AD) party. Also, he was so powerful and connected that many in the state have already touted him as the crown prince and successor to his boss. It was indeed considered a done deal! But as they say in this part of the world, ‘Man proposes, God disposes’

Before his very eyes, Omisore’s political career suffered a huge decline when he had a face-off with Akande. Both the governor and his deputy engaged in mudslinging, denigration and high-wired political bite-biting, which divided the once solid camp into two.

He suffered humiliation and was frustrated out of AD. Since then, his career has not been the same. The more he tried, the more it eluded him.

As time went on, he experienced more thorns than roses, and there came a time when he mooted the idea of quitting politics after jumping from one political party to another without success. From the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) to the Social Democratic Party (SDP), all with little or no success.

However, since the trained engineer was rehabilitated and rescued from the political wilderness and welcomed back into the camp of the All Progressives Congress (APC), he has gotten a breath of fresh air, and it seems his political ambition is back on stream.

The former senator has once again thrown his hat into the ring to wrestle power away from the incumbent governor, Ademola Adeleke.

However, Society Watch gathered that this might be yet another case of phantasmagoria, as the intrigues, horse-trading and power play in the state ahead of the election have become fiercer than ever.

The question on the lips of many is, can Omisore succeed this time around?

and gas value chain. His notable success with the

Oil Magnate, Sayyu Dantata, Gives out Daughter in Marriage

MRS brand has solidified his reputation as a savvy entrepreneur. Known for his impeccable style and flair, Sayyu enjoys a life of luxury, often seen soaring through the skies of Lagos in his private helicopter, a privilege that only a few can boast of.

In addition to his business acumen, Sayyu is also a devoted family man. He takes tremendous pride in his children’s achievements, and he is particularly excited as he prepares for a grand wedding ceremony for his beloved daughter, Amira Sayyu Dantata (Mariya). Amira is set to tie the knot with Faisal Mohammed Bello, the son of Mohammed Bello Adoke, a former Attorney General and Minister of Justice in Nigeria.

The much-anticipated nuptial journey for Amira and Faisal will take place on July 12 at the Alhaji Sanusu Alhassan Dantata Mosque in Kano State. This wedding promises to be

a lavish affair, drawing an esteemed guest list that includes prominent Nigerian dignitaries, influential business moguls, and high-profile government officials. Reports suggest that both the Kano State Governor and the Vice President of Nigeria are among the distinguished attendees expected to grace the occasion.

Sources close to Sayyu indicate that he is committed to making this celebration a truly spectacular event, reflecting the immense pride he feels for Amina and her accomplishments. He is determined to spare no expense in ensuring her wedding day is memorable and extraordinary, showcasing the deep love and support he has for his daughter on this significant milestone in her life.

Obasanjo’s Son, Olujonwo, Celebrates with the Elderly

Olujonwo Obasanjo, son of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, transformed his birthday celebration into an act of compassion by reaching out to vulnerable residents in his hometown of Ibogun, Ogun State.

The event, held on Sunday, began with the arrival of guests warmly welcomed by volunteers who managed the crowd and provided directions to ensure a seamless experience. The celebrant, Olujonwo, was introduced to loud applause, and the purpose of the gathering was explained — a day to give back to the community in gratitude for life and blessings.

The day started with a Thanksgiving in First Baptist Church, Ibogun, after which the celebrant and friends moved to a crowd already seated in former President Obasanjo’s compound in Ibogun.

A major highlight of the program was a medical outreach facilitated by a team of health professionals who provided free health services to residents.

Dr. Dayo Olomu, fondly called DDO by friends and peers, lives his life for humanity. As a distinguished speaker, human resources professional, author and social entrepreneur, he leaves a lasting impression on anyone who encounters him wherever he goes.

The celebrity status he enjoys today was not served him a la carte. He has put in a great

Attendees benefited from malaria screening, blood pressure and blood sugar checks, and general medical consultations, giving them an opportunity to access vital healthcare support.

In a show of empathy and social responsibility, Olujonwo distributed food items and essential supplies to 250 elderly people in the community through his Foundation, Olujonwo Ajani Obasanjo Foundation. The aged recipients expressed deep appreciation for the generous gesture, which came at a time of significant economic hardship.

Special remarks were delivered by dignitaries and community leaders who attended the event, praising Olujonwo’s dedication to humanitarian causes and community development.

Olujonwo himself expressed heartfelt gratitude to everyone present, emphasising that the initiative was about “giving thanks by giving back.”

deal of effort to remain relevant in the constantly changing and dynamic corporate world, and he never fails to regale his listeners with his inspiring tales at any given opportunity.

Interestingly, whenever he lays bare his grass-to-grace story during his public engagements, it is purposely to enable them to pick some nuggets about how to weather the storms of life.

On Wednesday, June 25, Olomu, who has been recognised and honoured with over 180 awards globally, turned 60, amidst pomp and circumstance. One of the highlights of the diamond celebrations was the public presentation of his long-awaited memoir titled “My 60 Life Lessons for Success and Significance.”

The memoir, knitted in 60 crisp and engaging chapters, essentially combines personal storytelling with practical lessons on goal setting to self-discovery, and offers useful tips on navigating adversity to living with intention.

The birthday celebrations were held in three European countries, beginning in the morning with prayers and lighting 60 candles at Notre-Dame Cathedral, where he unveiled his memoir, in Paris, France. Hours after, he was celebrated in Brussels, Belgium, with an indulgent Belgian lunch at The Dominican Hotel- he reportedly wandered in the gilded Grand Place, and treated himself to world-famous chocolates at Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert. The birthday shindig peaked when Olomu dined on exquisite Dutch cuisine at De Silveren Spiegel in Amsterdam.

What a magical 60th birthday celebration!

Those who were not physically present didn’t miss out so much on the fun-filled event, as Olomu shared the cherished moments via Facebook Live from his breathtaking hotel, a converted 15th-century chapel.

Murray-Bruce

Sayyu Dantata is a prominent figure in the Nigerian business landscape. He is wellknown for his extensive investments in both the downstream and upstream sectors of the oil

Dantata

Olujonwo

Olomu

Since then, he has grown grey hair and having sleepless nights.

ARTS & REVIEW ARTS &

A PUBLICATION

At B & C’s Harvest of Talents, a Fiesta of Brilliance, Visions

A leading Lagosbased law firm’s inaugural recent art exhibition and competition, lifted the veil on the seething and surging vibrant pool of young artistic talents. Okechukwu Uwaezuoke reports

With a dazzling debut on Tuesday, July 1, Babalakin & Co’s youth-focused exhibition burst onto the Lagos art scene like a gust of fresh, bracing air, its vibrant élan claim for a spot among the city’s glitzy art shindigs.

Attended by a coterie of the city’s most Consul General in Lagos, Joellen Borg, the founding Chairman & Editor-in-Chief of News Channel, Prince Nduka Obaigbena, and the renowned corporate titan and art also one of the judges, among others, the strictly-by-invitation exhibition was a & Co (B&C). This event marked a creative development, highlighting a convergence between law and art.

-

tion, emphasising that art wasn’t just about aesthetics, but about using creativity as a tool for national development. “It was commitment to the arts,” he said, explaining approach to its practice, one that allowed it to contribute to society while nurturing emerging artistic talent.

Harking back to its founding principles, circuit was no mere happenstance. Indeed, its visionary approach to law, which sees creativity rubs shoulders with jurisprudence. This is an approach that aligns seamlesslybalakin, whose 65th birthday coincided with the date of the exhibition – a masterstroke of timing!

Akoni’s emphasis on the intersection

The third and first place winners pose for photo ops between art and law – two seemingly disparate disciplines – was a pivotal theme. By highlighting their potential synergy, he implied that together, they could drive progress and propel the nation forward. To exhibition and competition, spotlighting young Nigerian talent and demonstrating the impact of strategic vision and planning.

translates as “Our Own is Our Own”), for instance. It was a vibrant celebration of Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage, which was

From over 250 submissions, 26 captivating art pieces pulsed with creativity and innovation, shining like a sunrise over the

Nigerian artscape. The winners were anAtadoga claimed the top spot with a N5 million cash prize, followed by Glory Ifunanyachukwu Innocent (N2.5 million) and Abdlquadr Ojelade (N1.5 million), in the second and third place, respectively. Ezichi Nkwocha’s artistry resonated deeply with the audience, earning him the “Viewer’s Choice Award” and a N1 million cash prize. With a total prize pool of N10 million, this

Nigerian artistry and showcasing the best of painting, drawing, and sculpture.

Elaborating on the selection process, B & C’s head of creative arts and sports law

for young Nigerian artists to shine. “We wanted to give them a stage to showcase their talents,” she explained, adding that expert to send out a call for entries to the art society in Nigeria. The response was overwhelming, with 250 submissions pouring in. A panel of four distinguished judges then carefully sifted through the entries, crowning the top pieces.

“Tiwa N Tiwa” was conceived to capture the essence of Nigerian uniqueness. “We asked artists to create pieces that would our society and culture,” she explained. The result was a collection of art pieces that were “unmistakably Nigerian,” tackling issues that are deeply rooted in the country’s culture and society. “They’re relatable, thought-provoking, and truly representative of the Nigerian experience,” of the selected pieces.

the audience with his quartet of artworks, each a showpiece that proclaims his creative genius from the rooftops. The Ahmadu Bello are rooted in the beauty of nature and the unrelenting efforts of labour, which he masterfully weaves into his art. Take one of his standout pieces, “Nature’s Embrace”, for instance. It is a breathtaking relief sculpture that seems to breathe life into the very essence of nature. This piece is complemented by “Lagos, A City in

reflection of his artistic vision.

Among the exhibition’s multifaceted impact, the standout element, according to Akoni, should be the audience’s discernment of “a well-thought-out process” that yields remarkable results. He enthused that the exhibition offered a glimpse into a brighter future for Nigeria, saying, “There is so much that this country can aspire to become… We believe in thisechoed Akoni’s sentiments, praising the depth and innovation of the works on display, and noting that the artists were “truly multidimensional” in their talents, from designing and sewing to filming and painting.

A view of the exhibition hall

Another view of the exhibition hall

Yinka Olatunbosun

Yinka Olatunbosun

Fortune

Jess Castellote

IN THE ARENA

Escalating Attacks on Soldiers

The recent killing of 17 soldiers by bandits in Niger State when the country is not at war poses a grave danger to national security and should be addressed decisively, Davidson Iriekepen writes

The Nigerian Army recently confirmed that 17 of its troops on anti-banditry operations were killed in Bangi community, Mariga Local Government Area (LGA) of Niger State.

Though unofficial reports claimed that 20 soldiers were killed in the ambush, a statement by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Apolonia Anele, put the figures at 17.

“Sadly, 17 brave and gallant soldiers paid the supreme price during the encounter, while 10 others sustained varying degrees of injury,” Anele said.

The statement added that the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Oluwafemi Oluyede, extended his condolences to the families of the fallen personnel and reiterated the Army’s commitment to securing lives and property, urging members of the public to support ongoing counter-terrorism efforts by providing timely information to security agencies.

Like in other terror-ravaged states, Niger suffers incessant attacks from armed groups, including the Mallam Sadiku-led Boko Haram faction. These groups target civilians, military personnel and local miners. They also engage in cattle rustling, kidnapping for ransom and violence against women.

The latest killing of the soldiers vividly reminded Nigerians of a similar fate that befell 17 soldiers in Okuama community in Ughelli South Local Government Area of Delta State in March 2024 for which nothing happened. Apart from the arrests of a few elders of the community, the culprits are still at large.

Today in Nigeria, a country that is not at war, the rate at which security operatives on duty are being killed is becoming increasingly alarming, particularly in the South-south, North-east, North-west, and South-east regions.

In January this year, six soldiers lost their lives in Damboa, Borno State while repelling the terrorist attack. The attack took place when terrorists were attempting to ambush troops at a Forward Operating Base.

The same month, about 20 soldiers were reportedly killed in a suspected attack by fighters from the West Africa Province (ISWAP). The attackers targeted an army base in the remote Malam-Fatori town in northeastern Borno State.

In April, the military high command confirmed that bandits ambushed and gunned down six soldiers at Roro, Karaga and Rumace communities, Bassa Ward, Shiroro LGA of Niger State.

A captain was also said to have been abducted during the incident.

While the security of citizens is of paramount importance, the loss of any member of the security forces is a tragic event that should not be taken lightly.

The role of security agents is to ensure the safety and well-being of all citizens and they should be able to perform this obligation without fear of being targeted. But this is not the case in Nigeria.

The incessant killing of soldiers has discouraged the Nigerian youths from enlisting in the army in many states. This needs to be addressed urgently in order to encourage the youth population to enlist in military service.

Recently, authorities of the Nigerian Army made strenuous efforts to convince the youths from the South-east zone of the country to enlist into military service.

The leader of the 2025 Army Recruitment Enlightenment Team, Brigadier-General, Chima Ekeator, dismissed the allegations that soldiers of South-east origin were the first to be sent to the battle front where they were killed in their numbers.

Many soldiers that deserted the military alleged on social media that they were not provided with adequate arms and ammunition to fight terrorists and this had led to heavy casualties inflicted soldiers.

While many Nigerians appreciate the risks security personnel take in the course of carrying out their lawful duties, it has become increasingly important for security operatives to be more proactive in carrying out their professional duties so as not to become vulnerable to attacks.

A country’s security architecture is its pride. When it is reduced to sitting ducks by rag-tag armies of non-state actors as it is happening now, the country loses its pride.

Nigerian security operatives should improve their capacity for intelligence gathering and react professionally to intelligence reports to forestall attacks from ambushes by non-state actors. Most times, when terrorists attack and kill soldiers, their weapons are carted away to enrich their armouries.

Recently, terrorists invaded military bases in Yobe and Maiduguri, carting away weapons and setting ablaze many they could not carry along with them. The question many asked after the attack was: Where were they when the enemies struck?

Former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo once suggested that Nigeria’s security challenges and emerging threats have made it imperative for the country’s military and other relevant stakeholders to be several steps ahead of these enemies of society.

This is why the government must take a deci-

POLITICAL

NOTES

Lessons from Ganduje’s Fall

There are a lot of lessons to learn from the forced resignation of the former National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Umar Ganduje recently.

Penultimate week, the two-time governor of Kano State suddenly resigned from his position to the consternation of members of his party and Nigerians in general. He has since been replaced by Ali Bukar Dalori in acting capacity.

A few months ago, Ganduje was reported to be taunting his former boss and ex-governor of Kano State, Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, not knowing what will befall him soon.

He made his political fight with Kwankwaso very personal and eternal. At every opportunity he was in Kano, he would mock his former boss publicly.

In 2013, as governor of Kano, Kwankwaso, a former Minister of Defence, defected to the APC from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

In 2018, he, alongside 13 other APC senators, joined the PDP. HejoinedtheNewNigeria’sPeopleParty(NNPP)in 2022 ahead of the 2023 general election, where he emerged fourth in the presidential election, pulling over 1.4 million votes.

Recently, the former APC chairman countered the party’s supporters in Kano who were against the defection of Kwankwaso to the party, insisting that he should be rehabilitated and rescued from his current homelessness.

Though he pretended to be in support of Kwankwaso returning to the party, he was actually not

sive step to halt this sacrilege now and deal decisively with sponsors and promoters of these violent groups that have held Nigeria to ransom.

Many analysts have advised government at all levels to address the underlying social and economic issues that are fuelling violence. This could involve investing in programmes that address poverty and unemployment, as well as increasing access to education and other basic services.

Also, efforts must be made to combat corruption and improve governance at all levels, as these issues are deeply intertwined with the problem of violence and insecurity.

They also advocate that governments and security agencies work closely with the communities affected by violence, to ensure that they have a voice in the process of addressing the issues.

Pained by the latest killings, and general insecurity in the country, northern elders on the platform of the Northern Elders Forum (NEF) called on President Bola Tinubu to declare a state of emergency in particularly northern Nigeria. In a statement issued by their spokesperson, Prof. Abubakar Jiddere, the elders described it as a total collapse of security in the country. He said the boldness exhibited by the terrorists is an indication of declaring war against Nigeria.

The group said if the federal government continues to delay and downplay this crisis, the Nigerian people would have no choice but to believe, rightly or wrongly, that this inaction is willful, or worse, complicit.

It said: “More than 20 uniformed men, defenders of the nation, were slaughtered like animals by a gang of well-armed terrorists who launched a brazen, coordinated ambush that completely overwhelmed the base. This is not just an attack, it is a declaration of war against the Nigerian state, and the state is losing.”

The group said it would no longer accept hollow condolences and called for decisive, joint military and intelligence operations with the sole objective of locating and eliminating every single terrorist and armed group threatening the country.

Finally, the federal government urgently needs to clamp down heavily on desperate politicians, who, in their various efforts to hold on to power or continue to remain relevant, sponsor nonstate actors to wreak havoc or destabilise the polity.

Nigerians must unite in condemning these heinous acts against security agents generally. No country survives or grows when non-state actors are allowed to wield arms and hold society to ransom at will.

happy, knowing he would dwindle his influence in the party.

While he was busy denigrating and taunting Kwankwaso, he didn’t know that there were forces strongerthanhimwhoknewtheimportanceofhaving Kwankwaso in the party, and that the forces were ready to sacrifice him if that would bring the NNPP chieftain back to the APC.

Last week, the Publicity Secretary of the party, Felix Morka, stated that the party’s doors are open for Kwankwaso to rejoin, work with President Bola Tinubu.

Should Kwankwaso join the APC as is being speculated,analystsbelievetheleadershipstructure will tilt towards Kwankwasiyya, with Kwankwaso likely assuming de facto control.

General Musa

Ganduje

BRIEFING NOTES

Can ADC Wrestle Power from Tinubu?

With voices of dissent emerging from the African Democratic Congress a few hours after the party was adopted as the vehicle for the opposition coalition to challenge President Bola Tinubu in 2027, coupled with the unwillingness of the Peoples Democratic Party, the Labour Party and the New Nigeria People’s Party to collapse their structures into the adopted party, Ejiofor Alike writes that the capacity of the ADC to wrestle power from the ruling All Progressives Congress remains doubtful

The opposition coalition seeking to sack President Bola Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 elections recorded a major breakthrough on Tuesday when it formally adopted the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as its official political platform.

The ADC’s adoption followed a strong suspicion by the coalition that its efforts to register a new political party, the All Democratic Alliance (ADA), might be frustrated by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) through delays.

The ADC’s nationwide presence and existing infrastructure made it a strategic choice for the opposition.

However, with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the Labour Party (LP), the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) and other prominent opposition not joining the ADC to form a strong opposition, it is doubtful if the adopted party is a formidable platform that can wrestle power from the ruling party.

While some prominent chieftains of the PDP and the APC, and the LP have identified with this coalition, the leadership of these major opposition parties are not favourably disposed to the formation of a strong coalition similar to the merger that produced the APC in 2013.

It appears all the leaders of the different opposition parties are not willing to relinquish their positions and subsume their selfish interests under any collective interest.

The coalition appointed former Senate President, Senator David Mark as the national chairman of ADC and former governor of Osun State and immediate past Minister of Interior, Rauf Aregbesola, a chieftain of APC, as national secretary, while former Minister of Sports, Bolaji Abdullahi, was made spokesperson of the party.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar; presidential candidate of LP in the 2023 presidential election, Mr. Peter Obi; former governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai; former Minister of Transportation, Mr. Rotimi Amaechi and other chieftains of different political parties are championing this coalition.

But political analysts believe that it takes more than the presence of prominent politicians in ADC for the party to sack the ruling party.

For analysts, all the major opposition political parties must collapse their structures and form a common front.

It took the merger of the then four major opposition parties – Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), Congress for Progressive Change (CPC), All Nigerian People’s Party (ANPP) and a faction of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) for the opposition APC to defeat the ruling PDP in 2015 general election.

Indications that the leadership of the main opposition parties are not willing to collapse their structures into ADC emerged from the absence of the leaders of these political parties in the coalition meeting that adopted the ADC.

Rather than joining the ADC, the Julius Abureled faction of the Labour Party, for instance, has served Obi a 48-hour quit notice to leave the party for joining the opposition coalition.

According to a statement issued on Thursday by the faction’s National Publicity Secretary, Obiora Ifoh, the LP under Abure’s leadership said it remains vehemently opposed to joining the coalition just as it dismissed members of the coalition as “power mongers whose only interest was self and not the people.”

To further demonstrate that the opposition parties would rather work against themselves

than joining forces against the APC, the Abure’s LP, in a subtle attack on Obi’s campaign slogan, warned Nigerians that the often- mouthed ‘new Nigeria is Possible’ is a ruse.

According to the LP, new Nigeria cannot be achieved with the assemblage of old, recycled, desperate and frustrated politicians in the coalition.

However, the LP faction led by its acting chairman, Senator Nenadi Usman, in a statement by her Senior Special Adviser, Ken Eluma Asogwa, countered Abure, saying that the party had on May 26, 2025, publicly declared its full support for Obi’s involvement in the coalition efforts aimed at creating a “robust political alternative to rescue Nigeria from the disastrous misrule of the APC.”

There are also indications that the ADC is not insulated from the crises that hit the main opposition parties as some members of the party under the aegis of Concerned Stakeholders of the ADC has rejected Aregbesola’s appointment as the interim national secretary of the ADC, saying it lacked due process, transparency and legitimacy.

NOTES FOR FILE

In a statement issued on Wednesday by the original national publicity secretary of the party, Dr. Musa Isa Matara, the group stated that, “until a legitimate, constitutionally-backed National Convention or National Executive Council (NEC) of the ADC confirms the leadership changes, no one has the moral or legal right to speak for the party nationally”.

Outgoing ADC National Chairman Ralph O. Nwosu, had on Wednesday, announced that the state-level leaders of the party have resigned to allow the party to become the official platform of the newly formed opposition coalition.

However, it is not yet certain if Nwosu’s position had the support of all the different organs and stakeholders in the party, many of whom could be sponsored to challenge Nwosu’s decision in court.

Already, the presidential candidate of the ADC in the 2023 election, Dumebi Kachikwu has kicked against the adoption of his party as a coalition platform.

Kachikwu described the opposition figures, led by Atiku, as “enemies of Nigeria,” who ruined the country.

“The same people who put our country on its knees are the same people who claim they are fire brigade and they want to put out fire. And you think these people are out to rescue Nigeria? They are political jobbers,” he said.

But the spokesperson of the ADC, Abdullahi, on Thursday, insisted that there is no crisis in the party.

Speaking on ARISE Television’s Morning Show, Abdullahi insisted that there is no factionalisation within the ADC.

He said: “There is no confusion or crisis in the ADC; we are very clear about this. I understand what Dumebi is saying. They may have had issues when he was the presidential candidate, but for us, we are on solid legal footing.

“If he has any particular grievances—and we understand that people have grievances—we are ready to deal with them. But we don’t understand what his grievances are.”

However, even if the ADC is not factionalised, the PDP, LP, NNPP and all other prominent opposition parties have to collapse their structures into the ADC.

In the absence of such a merger, it is feared that the opposition parties will end up splitting and sharing the majority votes in the 2027 presidential election as they did in 2023, while the APC emerges victorious with minority votes.

Who Demolished Peter Obi’s Brother’s House?

Two weeks have passed since the Lagos State Government denied any involvement in the demolition of a company owned by the younger brother of the presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 election, Mr. Peter Obi. Many are still waiting. Obi,whowasatthesiteofthedemolishedstructures, wrote on social media how he received a distress call from his brother over the demolition of his company by some people.

TheformerAnambraStategovernor,whonotedthat his brother’s company had owned the property for over a decade, said a court judgment he was shown during his visit to the site was issued against ‘an unknown person and squatters’ but bore no demolition order or permit.

Indeed a careful perusal of the court document circulating on social media showed that the demolition followed a court-ordered possession with the defendant written as an “unknown person”.

It indicated that judgment in the case was delivered by a Lagos High Court judge, A.M. Lawal on May 20,

2024, granting possession of the property to a private claimant.

The court said the defendant failed to appear before it despite proper service, and granted the claimant’s request, and also awarded N2 million in costs against the defendant.

The Lagos State government, in a statement by its Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, distanced itself from the embarrassing demolition.

Omotoso directed the Permanent Secretary in the Office of Urban Development, Gbolahan Oki, to initiate a full investigation through LASBCA to establish what transpired.

But LASBCA’s spokesperson Adu Ademuyiwa, said the agency had no knowledge of the demolition, adding that the commissioner’s statement was the government’s official position.

Since then, nothing has been heard about the matter.

There is a strong suspicion that the entire court proceedingswereconductedwithouttheknowledgeof

Obi’sbrotherjusttodenyhimtheopportunitytodefend himself, otherwise how can a registered company with a known name, known owner and address be referred to as unknown person?

How can such structure be demolished without the knowledge of the state government?

There are cases in Lagos State and Nigeria in general where some influential persons who saw lands in choice areas tried to grab them from the owners by any means possible, including colluding with corrupt judicial officers and security agents.

Logical questions to ask the judiciary are: How can an unknown person be sued? Can a court issue a judgment against a defendant who is not aware of the case?

The state government should also tell the world the outcome of its investigation.

Can’t the state government ask the Chief Judge to investigate the issue?

Since there are strong indications that there is a cover-up, the state government should demonstrate transparency in handling the matter.

Mark

Sanwo-Olu

Edo Guber: All Eyes on the Supreme Court

As the Supreme Court has reserved the judgment on the dispute arising from the Edo State gubernatorial election, many analysts want the apex court to demystify the Independent National Electoral Commission, which is always quick to tell aggrieved parties in disputed elections to ‘go to court’ despite its infractions, Wale Igbintade writes

The Supreme Court last week reserved judgment in the appeal challenging the declaration of Monday Okpebholo as the winner of the September 21, 2024 governorship election in Edo State.

After hearing arguments from lawyers, a five-member panel of the apex court, led by Justice Mohammed Garba, said the date for judgment would be communicated to the parties.

The appeal was filed by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its candidate, Asue Ighodalo.

Ighodalo and his party have maintained that both the tribunal and Court of Appeal failed to properly evaluate the case they filed to challenge the outcome of the election, which they insisted was not conducted with substantial compliance with provisions of the Electoral Act.

While arguing the appeal, appellants’ lawyer, Ken Mozia (SAN) prayed the court to allow the appeal, set aside the earlier decision of the Court of Appeal and return Ighodalo as the winner of the election with the majority of the lawful votes cast.

But the lawyers to the respondents sought a dismissal of the appeal.

For instance, lawyer to the All Progressives Congress (APC), Emmanuel Ukala (SAN), argued against the appeal and urged the court to dismiss it in its entirety.

Also, counsel to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Kanu Agabi (SAN), asked the court to dismiss the appeal.

The electoral body said, having declared the election as unlawful and illegal, Ighodalo and PDP cannot ask the court to declare them as winners of the poll.

INEC accused the appellants of being “inconsistent” in their grievances against the election and pleaded that their case be dismissed for want of merit.

INEC had declared Okpebholo, candidate of the APC, as winner of the election.

While Okpebholo polled 291,667 votes, Ighodalo of the PDP, who got 247,274 votes came second, while Olumide Akpata, candidate of the Labour Party (LP), finished a distant third with 22,763 votes.

Dissatisfied with the result, the appellants approached the tribunal, alleging that the election was not conducted in substantial compliance with the provisions of the Electoral Act, 2022.

They alleged that Governor Okpebholo did not secure the highest number of the lawful votes cast during the election.

It was equally the contention of the petitioners that INEC failed to serialise and pre-record some of the sensitive materials that were deployed for the poll, a situation they said aided the rigging of the election in favour of the APC and its candidate.

Delivering judgment on April 2, a three-member panel of the tribunal, led by Justice Wilfred Kpochi, held that the PDP and Ighodalo failed to prove the allegations against the respondents. It held that “no competent witnesses were called” to prove the averments in their petition.

The petitioners went further to challenge the election at the Court of Appeal. However, on May 29, a three-member panel of the appellate court, led by Justice Mohammed Danjuma, dismissed the appeal for lacking merit.

As the Supreme Court has reserved judgment, analysts hope that it would carefully consider the issues in contention in order to give credibility to Nigeria’s electoral process. They want the court to demystify those, especially INEC and the declared winners who are always quick to tell the aggrieved parties to “go to court” when issues of fraud are raised after every election.

For an election to pass integrity test and be declared credible, all the processes and arrangements leading to the election as well as the actual conduct of the election must be transparent, fair to all parties, and not deliberately skewed in favour of any contestant.

Did the Edo State governorship election satisfy these requirements?

First, before the governorship election, all the odds were stacked against Ighodalo and PDP, as many questioned the neutrality of the police and INEC. The concerns followed allegations that the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) posted to the state, Anugbum Onuoha, and the Commissioner of Police, Mr. Nemi Edwin-Iwo, were allies of Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike.

While the REC was alleged to be Wike’s cousin, who had also served as his Special Adviser on Lands when he was the governor of Rivers State, the police commissioner, who was said to be an indigene of Rivers State, was alleged to be an associate of Wike.

The FCT minister whose political camp in Edo PDP worked against the party’s governorship candidate, is also a known political enemy of the then Governor Godwin Obaseki, who sponsored the PDP candidate.

Despite the objections raised by the PDP that the posting of the police commissioner and the REC to the state could not have been a coincidence, but a deliberate plot to deliver Edo State to the APC, INEC and the police authorities ignored the objections.

But the reports of the various election observers on the collation of the results suggested that the pre-election fears were not baseless.

According to the local and international observers, the manner of collation of the results tainted the credibility of the poll.

Interestingly, the same INEC which declared Okpebholo and APC winners of the poll, could not defend its credibility at the tribunal. The commission, which said it had a line-up of five witnesses that would give evidence to support its results, failed to field any witness to defend its conduct of the election.

Analysts and lovers of democracy are demanding that as the apex court, the Supreme Court should exhibit courage, absolute impartiality and independence.

They argued that the outcome of the litigation would send out a powerful message about Nigeria’s commitment to democracy.

They also argued that the apex court should repeat the judicial courage it displayed in the appeals filed by Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State and Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State respectively, after the tribunal and Appeal Court delivered their judgments which were suspected to have been based on influence peddling and the bidding of politicians.

At the Supreme Court, Ighodalo’s legal team urged the court to allow the appeal and set aside the judgments of the tribunal and Court of Appeal.

They argued that in relation to their allegations of non-compliance, the lower courts failed to appreciate the nature of the non-compliance complained about, noting that there was no record of serial number on Form EC25B as required by Section 73(2) of the Electoral Act, 2022.

The appellants’ lawyers faulted the tribunal’s verdict that the documents they tendered at trial were dumped on them. They also noted that contrary to the tribunal’s finding, oral evidence was not needed in the nature of the case of the appellants, who were petitioners before the tribunal.

According to the lawyers, their clients did not challenge the conduct of the election, but the conflict in the results collated and announced.

In conclusion, they pointed out that part of their contention is that the results that

were collated at the ward level were not the results declared at the polling units.

Many lawyers had also faulted the tribunal for holding that the petitioners simply dumped documents on them. They accused the courts of working to produce predetermined judgments, noting that the judges were not patient and meticulous enough to peruse the documents tendered before them.

Citing Section 51 (2) of the Electoral Act, those who spoke to THISDAY on account of anonymity argued that the judges did not need a witness to prove over-voting, adding that what they needed was to go through the documents to see things for themselves.

While citing Section 137 of the Electoral Act, they stated that in cases of noncompliance, oral evidence is unnecessary when documentary evidence is available. They lamented that the tribunal and Court of Appeal failed to demonstrate their commitment to justice.

They equally cited the Supreme Court’s judgment in Ihedioha vs Uzodimma, where the APC only presented two witnesses and got a favourable judgment.

The lawyers also added that Section 72(1) of the Electoral Act mandates INEC to record the serial numbers and quantities of sensitive election materials, including ballot papers and BVAS machines, before the election.

Others were miffed beyond words at the pronouncements of the lower courts, saying they were contrary to the Electoral Act. They wondered if the panels were expecting the petitioners to produce witnesses from all the polling units where malpractices took place in a tribunal that had a very limited time to hear the petition.

“If the petitioners were complaining of over voting in 133 units and documentary evidence from the polling units showed that the number of votes cast exceeded the number of accredited voters, what else were the judges expecting to see and hear?” one of the lawyers, a SAN, queried.

They criticised the tribunal for dismissing documents that had already been accepted as exhibits, stating that even INEC did not dispute their authenticity.

This is why they expect the Supreme Court to do justice to their case.

Justice Kekere-Ekun

IghodaloOkpebholo

INTERNATIONAL

Nigeria-Saint Lucia Bilateral Relations under

PBAT: The Strategic Autonomy Components

Saint Lucia is an Eastern Caribbean island nation, located in the northeast of the island of Saint Vincent, northwest of Barbados and south of Martinique. It had a population of only 179,285 people as of 2023 according to the World Bank. The capital is Castries. It is a member of the British Commonwealth even though it got its independence from Britain in 1979. English is its lingua franca but several Saint Lucians also speak French Patois or Creole. About 90% of the Lucians are Roman Catholic, due to earlier French. Originally, the indigenous people were firstly the Arawaks, who came from South America around 200-400 AD, and then the Caribs who arrived around 800 AD and displaced the Arawaks. They fought battles to resist colonisation but succumbed and sold their land to the French West India Company in 1651, thus making Saint Lucia a French territory. Although Saint Lucia had much of Frenchification, the Carib heritage still co-exists with the influences of Africa, Dutch, and English.

The economy was first based on banana industry and currently on tourism and banking services. Tourism accounts for more than 65% of GDP. Its national currency is known as East Caribbean Dollar (XCD). 100 USD is 267.51 XCD, that is, 1 USD is the equivalent of 2.67 XCD. Apparently, the XCD is quite stronger than Nigeria’s Naira. Cost of living, in terms of housing, domestic food products, alcohol, eating out, utilities, etc., is low when compared with major cities in Europe. The climate is tropical with rain showers throughout the year. The driest season is between January and March and the hurricane season is between June and November.

More interestingly, Saint Lucia is the name of a woman and is the first country to have been named after a woman. This is the country to which President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (PBAT) paid an official visit. Why such a visit to a small country? Of what relevance is Saint Lucia to Africa and Nigeria? These are some of the questions raised by Akintunde Akinyemi, an Associate Fellow of the Academy of International Affairs at the ThruMyEyes on foreign policy programme held every Thursday at 7 pm by Sir (Professor) Bolaji Akinwande Akinyemi, CFR.

Bilateral Relations under PBAT

Nigeria’s relationship with the Saint Lucians can be explained multilaterally and bilaterally. Multilaterally, both countries are Member States of the United Nations, the Commonwealth of Nations, Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), Group of 77, and also of the African, Caribbean and Pacific Group of States (ACP). As Nigeria is yet to have a resident ambassador in Castries (Nigeria’s ambassadors have been generally accredited non-residentially either from the Nigerian Mission in Havana (Cuba) or from Nigeria’s Permanent Mission in New York), multilateralism has been a major feature and instrument in the relationship.

For example, at the level of theACPplatform, both countries share values and collaborate with the European Economic Community which later became European Community and currently European Union, following the signing of the 1992 Maastricht Treaty that came into force in 1993. Multilateral frameworks have enabled cooperation particularly in the areas of trade and development. Nigeria is also involved in the quest for a free trade framework at the level of the AfCFTA-CARICOM dialogue. It is noteworthy that both countries are strong advocates of global justice, fairer trade terms, and reparatory justice for slavery and colonialism. Without any whiff of doubt, the future of rapprochement of the two countries within the context of multilateral frameworks is quite bright, especially following the PBAT’s official visit to Saint Lucia and the growing pressure for greater South-South cooperation and solidarity.

Bilaterally, with which we are more concerned here, it can be observed that the future has the potential to be more interesting and challenging than the multilateral platforms. This is because Nigeria not only actively supports the policy of heritage tourism and efforts to reconnect the African Diaspora in the Caribbean with their African roots, but also because of Nigeria’s Strategic Autonomy Agenda that underscores the Nigerian Diaspora. In understanding the issues involved, there are three complementary

levels of analysis: pan-African ancestry considerations, strengthening the Technical Aid Corps Scheme (TACS) as instrument of soft power, and Nigeria’s diplomacy of 4-Ds as foreign policy instrumental pillars which are explicated under the strategic autonomy dimensions hereinafter.

At the level of the pan-African ancestry and in response to the enquiry of Mr Akintunde Akinyemi, an Associate Fellow of the Academy of International Affairs, Saint Lucians are mostly descendants of the enslaved Nigerians taken away to Saint Lucia. Several Saint Lucians have not only traced their ancestry to Nigeria, but have also been calling for deeper relationship with Africa, placing emphasis on citizenship programmes and heritage tourism. Saint Lucia, in particular, has been itching for long to cooperate with Nigeria in the areas of education, investment, tourism, and climate change adaptation. Most unfortunately, both countries are yet to accredit diplomatic missions to one another. Many observers attempt to give reasons of far distance and little or no interests to justify why Nigeria does not have a High Commission in Castries. This consideration cannot but be most unfortunate bearing in mind that Nigeria is the world headquarters of the Black people in the world. Africa is the centrepiece of Nigeria’s foreign policy. In fact, Saint Lucians are mostly of Nigerian descent. This is the more reason Saint Lucia ought to have a more prominent place in the strategic calculations of Nigeria’s foreign policy.

This cannot but be so because of the already growing influence of Nigeria in Saint Lucia. And true enough, Nigeria’s cultural

PBAT’s visit to Saint Lucia has many achievements: foundation-laying for the establishment of exchange of High Commissions in Castries and Abuja, joint commitment to South-South cooperation and citizen diplomacy, support for youth empowerment, signing of a technical manpower agreement, and most importantly, the conferment of Saint Lucia’s highest national honour of the Knight Commander of the Order of Saint Lucia (KCOSL). In spite of these, it cannot but be expected that an Ambassador-designate should be expeditiously named in light of the enthusiasm of Saint Lucia. Delayed non-accreditation of a Plenipotentiary and Extraordinary Ambassador to Saint Lucia can send wrong signals to Castries. PBAT has not been able to accredit new ambassadors since 2023. Whatever is the rationale for this, there is no disputing the fact that efforts are being made to project Nigeria on the basis of new policy attitude and behaviour. Emphasis on Western connections is on the decline. Areas that have always been neglected or taken with kid’s gloves, such as the CARICOM, are now taken up more seriously. Nigeria’s foreign policy behaviour is increasingly reflecting Africano-globalism disposition, which implies that the notion of Africa as centrepiece now extends to the Caribbean. General Olusegun Obasanjo once mooted the idea of globalism as centrepiece of Nigeria’s foreign policy but to no avail. Today, PBAT is carrying Africa on his back to build a bridge between Africa and its descendants in the Diaspora. It is commendable and should be encouraged

influence is gradually increasing with the Nollywood films and the Afro-beats music. Particularly more interesting are the literary works of Chinua Achebe and Chimamanda Adichie, as well as the joint organisation of festivals, fashion weeks and music production training programmes.

On the TACS, the need to coordinate Nigeria’s development assistance and to stop the idea of donating money to countries was made clear at the inception of the TACS in 1987. Before 1987, there was no structure in Nigeria’s development aid. Grants were given without coordination. This situation was not good enough. It prompted the then Foreign Minister, Professor Bolaji Akinwande Akinyemi, to recommend the need for a dedicated scheme to manage Nigeria’s technical assistance. Military President Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida rightly approved the need to go beyond monetary aid. The approval brought the TACS into existence. When the TACS took off, effectiveness and efficiency were the hallmarks of the Scheme. Nigeria was generally lauded. Many African, Caribbean, and Pacific countries were recipients of Nigeria’s technical assistance based on their specific requests.

However, in recent times, the ideals of the TACS are no more given priority and PBAT has patriotically opted to give the Scheme a more lively existence by seeking to give it a new life. The TACS is essentially about providing Nigerian professionals in the areas of need of the recipient countries. It is this pan-African soft diplomacy, which has been the only sustainable legacy of Nigeria’s foreign policy until now and which PBAT is currently and commendably promoting.

As regards the diplomacy of 4-Ds, that is, Democracy, Development, Demography, and Diaspora, the Tinubu administration wants to be autonomous strategically by using the 4-Ds as the quadrilateral pillars. The thinking of Nigeria’s Foreign Minister, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, is that Nigeria is the biggest democracy in Africa. Democracies do not fight themselves. Democracies serve as catalysts of economic growth and development. Democracy in Nigeria cannot but also serve as a good linkage with other democracies in the world. Consequently, democracy should be consciously promoted.

In the same vein, development is not only an instrument for influence in international politics, but also an objective to be actively pursued. In fact, the Foreign Minister sees demography as quite critical, especially that Nigeria’s population is not just the biggest in Africa, but most of Nigerians are also very dynamic and indefatigable. They have the capacity to innovate relentlessly. This is particularly very true of Nigerians in the Diaspora. Ambassador Tuggar strongly believes that harnessing the 4-Ds has the great potential to project Nigeria better in international relations, especially with the roles being played by the NIDCOM (Nigerians in Diaspora Commission) under its Chairman, Honourable Abike Dabiri-Erewa.

The particular case of the Diaspora is noteworthy, because it not only explains Nigeria’s quest to promote better entente with the CARICOM (Caribbean Community), but also why PBAT had to find time to visit Saint Lucia on his way to participate in the 17th BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil beginning today.

The Strategic Autonomy Dimensions

Saint Lucia, on its own right, is geo-strategic in location. It is not only the headquarters of the OECS (Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States) but the gateway to the other Member States of the CARICOM. It was a subject and object of Franco-British rivalry during the days of colonial struggle. It is useful to recall that Anglo-French struggle for Saint Lucia changed hands fourteen times and that the first settlements in the island were all French, beginning with Soufrière in 1746, leading to 12 settlements by 1780, and to the establishment of large numbers of sugar plantations. By that time, the British operated from Barbados while the French had their own headquarters in the Martinique. When the British launched their first invasion, called the Battle of Cul de Sac, in 1778, the French ceded on a permanent basis Saint Lucia in 1815 under the Treaty of Paris. Saint Lucia was not only incorporated into the British Windward Islands administration in 1838 with headquarters in Barbados and this lasted until 1885, the capital was also shifted to Grenada.

And perhaps most interestingly, struggling colonialists were most interested in the natural beauty and the natural deep-water harbours of Saint Lucia that enabled protection of military vessels and surveillance of the enemies. This same Saint Lucia is of strategic importance to Nigeria because majority of the enslaved transatlantic Saint Lucians were of Nigerian descent. No wonder, in the eyes of PBAT, ‘Africa and the Caribbean are one people… Nigeria will support youth, trade, education, and cultural growth across the Caribbean.’ This interest in supporting the CARICOM largely explains PBAT’s 4-day official State Visit to Saint Lucia that began on Monday, June 30, 2025 and thereafter to Brazil.

In fact, it can be rightly argued that the support is coming late bearing in mind the significant roles previously played by Saint Lucians in Nigeria’s political governance.As noted in the Presidential Press Releases of June 29, 2025, by Bayo Onanuga the Presidential spokesman, the late Sir Darnley Alexander, a Saint Lucian, served in various capacities in the judicial sector: ‘he first came to Nigeria in 1957, recruited as a legal draftsman by the Western Regional Government of Chief Obafemi Awolowo.

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Tinubu

THE UNENDING MISSION TO RESCUE NIGERIA

were rescued in 2015 is Hon Emeka Ihedioha. I can claim to have seen and read plenty about our political history, but I am not ashamed to admit that I still know next to nothing. When it comes to elections, worst enemies could become best friends and best friends worst enemies. Fellow Nigerians, it is all politics. Before I am fully misunderstood, let me quickly state that I have nothing against opposition figures coming together under one umbrella to compete with the APC. In fact, I love it. I am a lover of multi-party democracy any day, anytime, anywhere. Democracy without competition is dead, being alone. When there is only one viable party in the land, the incentive for delivery of governance dividends is very little. Political competition becomes defined as the struggle to get the ticket of the dominant party to run in an election. The moment a candidate secures the ticket, the rest is formality. But when there is competition with viable options, performance could be a factor at election times.

I am also happy that the opposition figures are coming to their senses. In my opinion, Tinubu won the presidential election in 2023 largely because of the divided opposition. While he polled 8.7 million votes to breast the tape, the combination of Atiku, Obi and Dr Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso — all of whom used to be in the PDP before the election — polled 14.5 million. Do the math. However, as it is typical of us in Nigeria, their supporters blamed INEC and IReV

RUFAI THE LEGEND

We were still mourning the death of Diogo Jota, the 28-year-old Portugal and Liverpool forward, when news broke that Prince Peter Rufai, the legendary Nigerian goalkeeper, had died at 61 after an illness. At the height of his power, Rufai — nicknamed “Dodo Mayana” for reasons I never bothered to find out — was an imposing and acrobatic figure who literally won many matches for Nigeria with superb saves. I adored him. Even when younger keepers like Alloy Agu, Willy Agbonavbare and Ike Shorunmu were showing sharper reflexes, some of us were so emotional about Rufai’s legend that we were not ready to give them a fair chance. I pray that his family will be comforted. Unforgettable!

rather than look inward to see where they missed it. By now coming together under one umbrella, Atiku and Obi seem to have realised that collaboration is better than competition — and that blaming INEC is not enough.

I have run the figures before. By the official results, the gap between Tinubu and PDP’s Atiku, who came second, was 1.8 million votes. Most of the 1.96 million votes LP’s Obi got in the south-east might have gone to Atiku, going by the zone’s support for the PDP since 1999. I would say Kwankwaso’s 997,000 votes in Kano would probably have been mostly PDP’s as well. Obi’s 582,000 votes in Lagos would likely have gone to Atiku: there was a solid PDP base in the state. In the end, every vote for Obi in Lagos favoured Tinubu because Atiku would most likely have been the beneficiary. Every vote for Kwankwaso in Kano was technically a vote for Tinubu because it could have been Atiku’s.

I wouldn’t know if they ran these figures before deciding to form a coalition, but it is a more scientific approach than INEC-bashing. Those who win elections always praise INEC; those who lose pummel INEC. Of course, INEC has a million and one issues, but maybe the electoral body is not always the problem. While it is curious that IReV, the result-viewing portal, failed to work on election day, all the result sheets were eventually uploaded and are still publicly available. Apart from Rivers state where over 50,000 votes were

brazenly stolen from Obi going by the uploaded result sheets and the ones given to party agents, nobody has disputed that the posted results for other states were different.

I am happy that opposition figures did not decide to boycott the 2027 elections based on the accusations of one-party state or IReV. That is indeed beautiful. Boycott solves no problems. Go out there and slug it out. Ghanaian politicians learnt that lesson decades ago. In 1992, opposition parties accused President JJ Rawlings of rigging and boycotted the parliamentary elections. But they soon came to their senses, appraised their performance and concluded — sincerely — that they were too weak and too fragmented to take on the ruling party. They organised themselves much better and performed much better. They lost again in 1996 but remained steadfast — and finally won in 2000. “Organise, don’t agonise” is a common saying in the Nigerian aluta movement. Our politicians preferred to agonise rather than organise when the PDP held sway in Aso Rock from the dawn of this democratic dispensation. The first time they seriously organised themselves was in 2015 when the atoms came together under the APC umbrella (or should I say broom). This saw to the end of 16 years of the PDP, even if it didn’t see to the end of Nigeria’s problems. At least, we tried another party. If Nigerians are truly unhappy with the APC, then 2027 would be another opportunity to show their displeasure at the polls. If it works out,

And Four Other Things…

IDP-SHAMING

Nigerian politicians, in an attempt to make fun of their opponents, have been freely using the term “IDP” to describe them. IDP, in its original meaning, is “internally displaced person” — in reference to refugees from conflicts — and not “internally displaced politician”. Between 2008 and 2023, Nigeria recorded over eight million IDPs as a result of terrorism, banditry and communal conflicts. They live in makeshift camps, suffering emotional and physical abuse because of the failure of their country to protect them in the first place. Nobody wants to be an IDP. It is not something to be made fun of. I am pleading with our politicians and their supporters to change their use of language. Insensitive.

ALL SET FOR ANOTHER BATTLE OF COALITIONS

shares of the votes cast. In 2027, APC will enter the ring as the defending but diminished champion. Being in government has robbed APC of its lustre. Even though it has the blessings of incumbency, it is also saddled with the burdens of it. Forget the blusters from official circles, APC is vulnerable, more vulnerable than at any other time in its 12-year existence. Whether the growing band of opposition will be able to capitalise on this vulnerability is another matter entirely. Not all vulnerabilities are fatal, or immediately so. PDP became vulnerable right from 2003, but it hanged on till 2015.

One of the factors animating the evolving unity of the leading opposition politicians (not parties yet) is the realisation that a disunited opposition practically handed victory to President Bola Tinubu in 2023. Tinubu secured only 36.61% of the votes, the lowest share of votes by any winning presidential candidate in more than a generation. So much has been made of this as if it never happened before and as if it weakens the legitimacy of the declared winner.

While that was the first time in the Fourth Republic that a winning candidate would poll below 50% of the valid votes, it is not an unlikely outcome in a truly competitive multiparty election. Also, the percentage secured is immaterial as long as the two conditions for declaring a winner are met: highest number of votes and at least a quarter of the votes in two-thirds of the states. Until the last electoral cycle, our presidential elections were largely a contest between two parties, even in electoral cycles when we had more than 50 parties. That changed in 2023 when four parties secured respectable numbers.

The 2023 results bore close semblance to results from the Second Republic, a time when political parties were not two for a kobo. In the two electoral cycles of that republic, the winning candidate polled below 50%.

President Shehu Shagari scored only 33.77% of the votes in 1979 and only 47.5% in the 1983, even when the 1983 elections were adjudged massively rigged. This shows that, collectively, the opposition parties secured the majority of the votes cast in both elections: 66.23% in 1979 and 52.49% in 1983. This was because of the level of electoral competition of the time. In 1979, for example, GNPP took the rear of the five parties but still put in a respectable 10.01% of the votes cast. Would the opposition parties have defeated Tinubu in 2023 and Shagari in 1979 and 1983 if they had united? Probably. But this is in the region of counterfactuals.

Besides, the results of elections do not necessarily lend themselves to such neat arithmetic. For different reasons, voters might have behaved in different ways. What has been established, however, is that when the opposition parties present a united front, they have a high probability of posing a credible challenge to the incumbent. That is the abiding lesson from 2015, the first and the last time an opposition party caused an upset at the presidential level. ADC, or whatever platform the opposition politicians eventual settle for, may be the second to make history, and it may not.

Agreeing on the common platform on which to challenge Tinubu in 2027 is an important first step for the opposition politicians. Unveiling the platform and the structure around it is equally important. Even when it can be argued that ADC does not yet look as formidable as APC was in 2015, a sense of seriousness and strength has been telegraphed. But much more needs to happen for all these to translate to victory at the polls. Make no mistakes about it: Tinubu is vulnerable. His economic policies, though mostly necessary, have been badly sequenced and overdone (even the IMF has said the Naira devaluation overshot the runway). The

fine. If it doesn’t, 2031 will offer another good chance. However, may I advise fellow Nigerians to stop getting over-excited whenever politicians say they want to “rescue” Nigeria. The APC promised us heaven and earth in 2015 but many Nigerians would say they are now living in hell. On December 1, 2013, I wrote this about the formation of the APC: “Nigerian politicians, no matter their party, language and religion, are basically the same. Let me be clear about that. That is why they find it so easy to swap political parties from time to time without feeling out of place, without having to battle any contradictions. They are at home anywhere they find themselves. It is the same set of people that are circulating and re-circulating...” I still stand by my words. In the end, the difference between the ADC and the APC may just be one alphabet. Our problem has never been the party in power — it is people in power. I always say Nigeria will not change until our politicians change. I still stand by my words. To the typical Nigerian politician, power is a licence to become a deity, to amass and flaunt obscene wealth in the face of poverty, to deploy state power to oppress and suppress others, to chase us off the road with siren-blaring convoys. Most politicians are just waiting for their turn. That is why Nigeria is like this. It is not a co-incidence. Our politicians cannot rescue us until they rescue themselves from greed and selfishness. Know this, know peace.

NO COMMENT

For a party that used to control an overwhelming number of states to the extent that there were fears Nigeria was moving towards a one-party system, it must really constitute a sad state of affairs that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is now a disappearing shadow of its former self. While the emergence of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) is getting all the good inches in newspapers these days, the PDP is mostly mentioned with regard to the endless defection of its governors and lawmakers to other parties. Chief Nyesom Wike, the FCT minister, has done quite a lot to ground the once-mighty party and the remnants must be seriously wondering what the future holds.

macro-economic indicators are looking better and all tiers of government are making the bank with higher revenues but a majority of Nigerians have been further pauperised.

As president, Tinubu has greatly eroded his famed political sagacity, alienating key allies and segments that helped him over the line in 2023, and over-compensating his Lagos crowd, a crowd with little or no political value. Of course, Tinubu is leveraging presidential platform to forge new alliances. But a less hubristic strategist would always remember that politics is a game of addition, not subtraction; and of accommodation, not alienation. Irrespective of all these, Tinubu as incumbent president remains a formidable candidate. As I once stated on this page, Tinubu will not be shy in maximising the advantages of incumbency. He also has the extra edge of time: he has more time than his opponents because he doesn’t need to break a sweat to get his party’s ticket; and he has enough time to make course correction, to undermine his opponents; and enough time for some of the pain-points of average Nigerians, like high prices of food and other essentials, to start easing, and for more Nigerians to start giving him the benefit of the doubt or just opt to wait out his second term.

The opposition politicians have it all to do. To start with, they need to reconcile themselves with the fact that Tinubu will not simply roll over and that not many Nigerians will eagerly embrace them as the long-expected messiahs. Tinubu will do everything in the book and outside of it to frustrate them. It is not his job and not in his interest to make things easy for them. Some Nigerians may not be excited about certain characters headlining the opposition coalition and are likely to ask probing questions about their antecedents and stewardship. There are those who are sceptical, and for good reasons, about politicians who have been in government in one capacity or the other in the last 26 years, some up till just two years ago, and some still in other arms or tiers of government suddenly showing up as saints or redeemers. It will be difficult for the opposition coalition to reject members. But it can at least control who speak for it and what they say.

Coming up with the right and resonant messaging will be critical for the opposition. And the message that will stick is not the wan lines about how Nigeria is no longer a democracy, about how the economy has completely collapsed and about how Nigeria is now

The ADC is turning out to be a party that will give the media a lot of content. As a journalist, I can’t have any problems with that. ADC’s most senior member, former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, has always promised to do one term and support a southerner to succeed him. However, with many expecting power to return to the north in 2031, ADC’s southern hopefuls are also promising to do one term. Peter Obi has said he does not need more than one term to transform the economy. Rotimi Amaechi has also promised that he will do only one if he becomes president on the party’s platform. On my part, I hereby promise not to do any term at all if I am elected president. Hahahaha.

a one-party state. Hyperbole is permissible in politics but even deliberate exaggeration needs to be sensible. To be seen as a credible alternative, the opposition politicians will need to clearly articulate what they stand for, not just what or who they are against. It will be important not to come across simply as a collection of displaced, entitled and desperate politicians who want to use Nigerians to settle personal scores or to get back to the trough of power. They have to offer a compelling reason, especially on the critical issues of the day, for why Nigerians should prefer them to the incumbent. Some of them also need to step away from unhelpful boasts or threats about ethnic or regional veto power.

By far the most important hurdle the opposition coalition will need to scale artfully is the selection of its flagbearer and the management of the aftermath. It is an open secret that at least three of the leading politicians on the current opposition platform want to run for president in 2027. Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, Mr. Peter Obi and Mr. Rotimi Amaechi—especially the first two—are clearly interested in trying their luck again. There is the issue of rotation of power between the North and the South, and this is probably why some of the potential aspirants are promising to do only one term, a promise that will be difficult to enforce once the person is in office.

Kites have also been flown about pairing two of the potential aspirants on the same ticket. We have to wait to see if whoever loses out will stay in the tent or pursue his luck elsewhere, and whether a pairing of the former presidential candidates will energise their individual base enough to produce an aggregation of the votes they each garnered in the last elections and how other members of the coalition with an eye on the 2031 electoral cycle will respond. These hurdles are not insurmountable, and Nigerians may not be as fixated on certain things as we have been made to think. But even if all goes swimmingly on this front, it does not necessarily guarantee victory at the polls. It is too early to have a sense of how the faceoff between the ADC and the Tinubu/APC coalitions will play out in 2027. We are still at least 18 months away from the elections. Even a day is a long time in politics. There is enough time for each of the coalitions to get weaker or stronger, and enough time for the field and the state of play to change radically. But it is an exciting time ahead, and we are here for it.

El-Rufai

WHITHER PDP?

ENGAGEMENTS

Rivers: Anatomy of a Crooked Truce

The public has been treated to some settlement of the political crisis that has engulfed Rivers state since after 2023. President Tinubu and his Rivers political ‘Warrant Chief’, FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, have been crowing to the hearing of all that they have struck a deal on the palaver. The sketchy details indicate that Tinubu will shortly call off the state of emergency and re-install Fubara in the Port Harcourt Government House. Reportedly, Mr. Fubara has agreed that he will be a single term ‘compliant’ governor, ceding place to whoever Wike and Tinubu decide will fly the APC flag in 2027. Fubara would resume a subservient relationship with King Wike and allow him significant inroads into the affairs of the state especially the money traffic. There are other unprintable details of the agreement that are not fit for the consumption of a decent public. In all likelihood, some guarded truce is to come into effect in the troubled state and all factions are to sheathe their swords till the fire next time.

On the surface, the peace deal is good for national security in that sensitive corner of the nation. It is welcome news for the people of Rivers state who have been virtually without a functional government since after the 2023 elections. It is also welcome relief for Mr. Fubara who has been literally boxed into an impossible corner for most of his troubled tenure as governor. He was hardly allowed to unpack his suit case before being called out to fight for his political life. The truce deal also appears good for presidentTinubu whose credentials as a leader have been called to question on the basis of his handling of the frequent troubles in Rivers state.

Outside these generous concessions, everything about the new Rivers peace deal is spurious, suspicious and tenuous. In response to the impending euphoria over this political cease fire, I want to enter a wide ranging dissention.

The Tinubu and Wike truce deal is couched as an understanding. It is an agreement entered into with Fubara as an underdog partner. At best, it is likely to usher in a short spell of quiet to allow preparations for 2027 to gather steam and gain ground. As a mere cessation of hostilities, it will merely drive the hostile forces underground to a zone where they can hardly be controlled. The reasons are abundant. The lines of political disputation in Rivers State are not synonymous with just Wike versus Fubara. It is more complex than that. It is Wike and associates versus Fubara and tribesmen.

Tinubu is therefore not in a vantage position to broker peace in the state. His party, the APC, has only a tenuous foothold in the state. The dominant faction of the APC in the state remains the Amaechi wing which Wike used the security forces to scatter and destabilize. That faction is now likely to join the new ADC coalition and leave the APC an empty chamber. The truce will give them room to regroup and regain momentum but under a new political umbrella.

Even within the PDP which Wike has shredded nationally, the party’s hold on the state is predicated on Fubara’s continued relevance in the apex power tussle. If Mr. Fubara is now barred from seeking a second term in office, he will have no incentive to decamp to the APC or recruit followers for the party. If he has political creativity, he should initiate another deal that makes his joining the APC contingent on the removal of the ban on a possible second term for him. He can insist that it is either he is allowed to seek a second term or he and his PDP faction will join the new opposition coalition. Either way, he wins. Mr. Fubara is not likely to stick out his already strained neck except it will make him stronger and render Wike weaker and redundant. By the eve of 2027, Wike will have to decide on his precise partisan affiliation. He is either in APC to bolster Tinubu’s re-election bid or back in the PDP which he will have pulverized by then. It is doubtful if indeed the PDP will remain in serious electoral contention by 2027.

In the interim, the coalition of opposition forces now in the making may rally round the banner of Peter Obi to complete the routing of Tinubu and the APC in Rivers State, a process that was well underway in 2023.The coalition has ready strong leadership in Amaechi and his followers. In Rivers State, the new coalition will be an anti-Wike and anti-Tinubu coalition.

There are other powerful forces and factions with equally strong stakes in the politics of the

state. The incumbency factor on which Wike andTinubu are riding rough shod on Rivers state is nearly over. In the next one year, Tinubu will be gasping for breath to secure a second term in office in the face ofaviciousandpowerfulopposition.Even if security breaks down in the state once again, Tinubu will have lost the power to declare yet another State of Emergency in that state.

Many other areas of pressing national security like the Benue-Plateau-Nasarawa axis will threaten us all with fresh urgency. A president with an uncertain political fate cannot guarantee any governorship candidate tenure security let alone decide on who enters the governorship contest in a state that his party does not control.

By the eve of 2027, Wike himself will havenosignificantgriponpowertodecide on who rules Rivers State. For a politician with a feudal manorial inclination, he may need to seek alternative farmlands or just retreat to safeguard his huge treasure warehouses. His ministerial tenure will be at its tail end, surrounded, as I am sure, by a deluge of complaints, scandals and looming investigations.

On his part, Mr. Fubara will be ending his first term as a victim incumbent, a man more sinned against than sinning. He was harassed in his first term, disengaged briefly by hostile forces in a State of Emergencydeclaredonapartisanfooting and literally chased away from power by the duo of an imperial minister and an autocratic president. His adversaries will by then have little power over him. He is likely to look up and see the fading ghosts of Wike and Tinubu and ask both ghosts: “Death, where is thy power?”

The political foot soldiers that have so far powered the crisis in Rivers on all sides will be scattered in different directions as they seek new alliances and alignments. The beleaguered state legislators will literally have no mandate or any constituency as they scamper for newrelevanceinnewpartisanaffiliations. There will be no governor to fight and a

belligerent Wike will have nothing to offer them in return for endless and fruitless lawsuits.

Even the judiciary, for a long time serially weaponized in the Rivers crisis, will be at a loss as to whom to back and on whose side to deliver those transactional judgments. In this confusing scenario, Rivers could degenerate into a judicial anarchy and a political jungle. Somehow, true democracy as the rule of the people could prevail as today’s war lords will recede into the twilight of political irrelevance.

More importantly, the grassroot forces that determine the locus of power in Rivers will by the eve of 2027 be rehearsing for a go at the governorship. The critical divide between the upland and riverain zones will return in full force.

The Ijaws will return in full force to stage a forceful stake for their son, Fubara, who has been variously wronged and victimized. The least they will be asking for this time around is that their son be allowed to complete a second term like other citizens. They will have the power of the constitution backed by law to back their demand.

The demand for this equitable arrangement will be staged forcefully through street marches by half naked women, militants armed with all sorts of dangerous implements and ill -mannered propaganda converted into war songs and dangerous slogans. National security will meet and mix with political upheaval. Law and order will take a back seat as peace and public order take precedence as priorities of state responsibility.

The federal government at this point dares not mention the word ‘emergency’ as the vocal majority In Rivers will see any federal intervention as an invasion of the powerful minority of Ijaw nationalists. Advocates of democracy, justice and fairness will scream very loud and drown other noises.

The Ijaws are by no means the only significant majority ethnicity in contention in the Rivers State governorship jostle. Outside Wike’s Ikwerre upland base which has had its fair share of gubernatorial power, the Ogonis are the next most consequential political demographics in the state. Their stake in the governorship has been long standing. Add this to their international environmental presence dating back to the Ken Saro-Wiwa era. The Ogonis are on UN record as the most prominent victims of Nigeria’s abusive

and mostly unregulated oil and gas industry. Key Ogoni political actors like Magnus Abe have in the recent past expressed strong interest in the governorship of Rivers state. The space that the new cease fire deal will create is likely to create space for this group to re-energize their effort.

In the midst of the 2027 power stampede, the concern of the world and indeed the nation will not be on what Tinubu and Wike want or think. The international community especially will focus on the elections and how far violence and intimidation are deployed by untidy political actors. It is democracy itself that will be on trial, not a deal of political convenience entered into by an endangered president and his besieged party and political contractor.

Yes indeed, Mr. Wike is likely to deploy his armada of cash and thugs to ensure that Fubara is finally buried politically. But Fubara will not be alone in the fight for survival. He will be joined by other powerful partisans who cannot possibly go to bed withWike. AndWike will be in the battlefield of 2027 only to the extent of seeing how big a slice of a possible Tinubu victory he can bring into the basket. If he gets something big, he could return into federal reckoning. If not, his road to political oblivion will be paved with the debris of his untidy past glory.

In the political drama that has engulfed Rivers State in the last couple of months, we come face to face with a broad spectrum of political features that should be of interest to future observers of Nigerian politics. In PresidentTinubu’s teleguiding of Rivers politics through the use of a sole agent, Mr. Wike, we witness a modern equivalent of the colonial Warrant Chief in national politics. In the colonial era, the Warrant Chief was a paid agent of the colonial authority who wielded authority and controlled power at the local level on behalf of the colonial power. His authority came from the colonial power and he owed his influence to this external source. That has been the role of Mr. Wike on behalf of Tinubu and the ruling APC in Rivers State. Wike donned the red cap of his political master and has recklessly flaunted his illegitimate fortunes and authority with reckless swagger.

AtthelevelofWikehimself,hehasdemonstrated the power of the political God father as a factor in Nigeria’s democracy. This successive breed of politicians insist on choosing their successors mostly at the level of state governors. Political God Fathers insist on controlling the destiny of their surrogates especially the state finances and appointments. Wike was not just content with installing Fubara in the government house. He wanted to dictate appointments, budgets, spending limits in addition to political control of grassrootssupportanddownstreamfollowership.

As a political God Father, Mr. Wike was out of power as governor but wanted to retain control of the affairs of Rivers state while wielding ministerial power as FCT Minister. Things fell apart because of the incompatibility of these divergent levels of political power and authority dynamics. An overbearing minister also wanted to be the emperor of a state he previously governed with scant accountability and maximum recklessness.

On his part, Mr. Fubara was victim of a failure to understand the nature of power. He thought he could be in office, enjoy the perks of power, relish in the fanfare of state power while someone else called the shots and held the purse strings. How infantile? He failed to realize that power without authority is a mere caricature. Office without power and political control is a joke.

In an attempt to reconcile these divergent antagonisms of power in Rivers, all major contenders are riding an impossible tiger of political power and are all likely to get badly bruised. Tinubu is unlikely to determine the political outcome in Rivers in 2027. Mr. Wike and the President are most likely to fall out and apart on the swords of their huge stakes in both Rivers State and national politics. Wike’s use value as a political contractor and Warrant Chief is fast expiring and may be completely obliterated or neutralized by 2027. The recourse to cash and brute force to stay relevant may be countered by new forces that just want a change from the old order.

As for Mr. Fubara, his future as a political factor in Rivers will depend on how deftly he moves to convert political name recognition into real power and regional influence in the Niger Delta. It is ultimately a matter of courage and political sagacity on his part.

Fubara

Edited by: Duro Ikhazuagbe

email:Duro.Ikhazuagbe@thisdaylive.com

Tobi Amusan Finishes Second at Prefontaine Classic, Nathaniel Ezekiel Third

Kenyan Chebet becomes first woman ever to run the 5,000m world record in under 14 minutes

Duro Ikhazuagbe

Nigeria’s world record holder in Women’s hurdles, Tobi Amusan, stormed to a second place Classic in Eugene, USA last night with a time of 12.38secs. position by Jamaican Ackera Nugent who clocked 12.32secs to win the race in the loadedpionships barely two months

away in September in Tokyo, Japan, Amusan has restated her claim to the event where she reigned supreme at the Eugene where she set the World Record of 12.12secs .

Nigeria’s Nathaniel Ezekiel Alison dos Santos and American Rai Benjamin. Nathaniel who is the reignchampion and has enjoyed medallist and the worldleading Benjamin in the Santos clocks a season-best the race.

Djokovic ‘Blessed’ to Record 100th

Wimbledon Victory

Seven-time champion Novak Djokovic said he is “blessed” to have sealed at Wimbledon with a statement third-round win over compatriot Miomir Kecmanovic.

Serb Djokovic was in no mood to delay his near-fated ton at the All England Club and secured

Martina Navratilova and eighttime champion Roger Federer, the end of the fortnight, he will still be one shy of the record.

But it would land him an even bigger accomplishment - the he has been chasing since last

“Wimbledon is a favourite and a dream tournament of not just myself but the majority of players,” he said.

“Growing up, most kids been blessed to do that many

in my favourite tournament...

Djokovic celebrated the milestone by performing a ‘pumping’ dance which has become a tradition between him and his children after each win this tournament.

He demonstrated the dance with his daughter - who was sitting in his coaching box - during his on-court speech after the match.

The 38-year-old, seeded sixth, will take on Australian 11th seed Alex de Minaur in the fourth round.

Ezekieli incidentally won the US collegiate title here in and earlier in the year set a new African indoor record

Three other Nigerianenth-ranked shot putter, Chukwuebuka Enekwechi, and sprinter Rosemary Chukwuma were in late actions at the Classics which is also a Wanda Diamond League leg

of the World Athletics series. However, the biggest news world record set by Kenyan runner, Beatrice Chebet. She

Rasheedat Ajibade Optimistic as Super Falcons Open Campaign Against Tunisia

Super Falcons Captain, Rasheedat Ajibade, has made Nigeria’s intentions to win the 13th Women’s Africa

very clear to all the contenders as the nine-time African champions open their Group B clash with Tunisia today in Morocco.

South Africa are the tournament’s defending champions while hosts Morocco reached

Ajibade is convinced that Nigeriawill not just be showto win.

Having previously lifted the clinched the Golden Boot at the a new milestone: leading Nigeria to a record-extending tenth continental title as skipper.

Ajibade, who skippered Nigewill be wearing the captain’s a major African tournament.

The former Atlético Madridstar is under no illusions about the weight of expectation. But far from being daunted, the

Dominant Dembele Fires PSG into Semifinals

Paris St-Germain edged past Bayern Munich to reach the in a game overshadowed by a serious ankle injury to Jamal Musiala and featuring two red cards for the French side.

Desire Doue, who scored twice in PSG’s Milan, sent a 78th-minute low, left-footed drive into the corner for the opening goal. And despite having Willian Pacho and Dembele added a second in injury time to set up a last-four date with Real Madrid, who beat Dortmund 3-2in New Jersey on

Saturday. At the end of an entertaining but goalless

goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma while near the byeline.

Germany international Musiala emerged clutching his left ankle, while a distraught Donnarumma had to avert his gaze as the Bayern physios rushed on to the pitch. Dayot Upamecano had a header ruled while their keeper Manuel Neuer made an outstanding stop to deny Bradley Barcola

early in the second half.

Four minutes after Doue’s strike, PSG had defender Pacho dismissed for a high lunge on Leon Goretzka, while full-back Hernandez was also given his marching orders in added time for catching Raphael Guerreiro with an elbow.

England captain Harry Kane also had video assistant referee (VAR) overturned a Bayern penalty just before the end.

Referee Anthony Taylor initially penalised Nuno Mendes for a high challenge on Thomas Muller but, after reviewing the incident on his pitchside monitor, the Englishman changed his initial decision.

electrifying forward insists she’s embracing the pressure

honour to captain the Super

take it for granted, but to be honest, there’s no pressure at all,” Ajibade said.

According to Soccernet.ngthe Super Falcons, are by far the most dominant force in African women’s football, open their headline clash against Tunisia.

They will also face Botswana and Algeria in Group B.

experience to the side, while goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie — Africa’s best for the second year running — stands as a formidable last line of defence.

Coach Justin Madugu’s squad also boasts a blend of proven talent and emerging stars. Defenders like Michelle Alozie, Ashleigh Plumptre, and Tosin Demehin have impressed enforcers Christy Ucheibe, Halimatu Ayinde, Deborah Abiodun and Jennifer Echegini are expected to set the tempo.

obliterated Gudaf Tsegay’s Tsegay set the previous reClassic. Agnes Jebet Ngetich

Djokovic

Tobi Amusan...restating claims to the women’s 100m hurdles title

WAFCON IN MOROCCO

Desire Doue’s (second right) second-half strike was his 16th goal of the season in all competitions as PSG beat Bayern Munich 2-0 to reach semi final

ENHANCING WELFARE OF AIR TRAVELLERS…

SIMON KOLAWOLE

The Unending Mission to Rescue Nigeria

Breaking news: a number of prominent Nigerian politicians have finally teamed up and adopted a new political platform to challenge the ruling party and “rescue Nigeria from bad governance, poverty, disease, corruption, spiralling inflation and worsening insecurity”. According to them, Nigerians cannot afford another four years of misrule by the ruling party as the ship of state has drifted and the country is much worse today than ever. Some notable figures in the emerging arrangement are Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, Rt Hon Rotimi Amaechi, Rt Hon Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, and Mallam Nasir El-Rufai. These heavyweight politicians, coming together under the umbrella of the All Progressives Congress (APC), have vowed to send the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) packing from Aso Rock in the next general election because of poor leadership, describing President Goodluck Jonathan as “shoeless” and “clueless”. They accused Jonathan and the PDP of failing to curb insecurity as the Boko Haram insurgency has continued unabated in the north-east. They also complained about the state of the economy, noting that Nigerians are now paying

Breaking news again: a number of prominent Nigerian politicians have finally teamed up and adopted a new political platform to challenge the ruling party and “rescue Nigeria from bad governance, poverty, disease, corruption, spiralling inflation and worsening insecurity”. According to them, Nigerians cannot afford another four years of misrule by the ruling party as the ship of state has drifted and the country is much worse today than ever. Some notable figures in the emerging arrangement are Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, Rt Hon Rotimi Amaechi, Rt Hon Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, and Mallam Nasir El-Rufai.

These heavyweight politicians, coming together under the umbrella of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), vowed to send the All Progressives Congress (APC) packing from Aso Rock in the next general election because of “incompetent” and “corrupt” leadership, describing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s government as “insensitive”. They said: “Inflation is at its peak. People cannot buy food. The dollar was about 460 or 500 under Buhari. Now it is 1580. Petrol was N185/litre under Buhari but it is now N900/litre. Nigerians no longer feel safe in their country because of kidnappers

and bandits.” They asked Nigerians: “Is your life better today than when Tinubu came to power?”

If you don’t believe history repeats itself, there you have it. Those who rescued Nigeria in 2015 are back in town to rescue Nigeria again, this time from fellow rescuers, in conjunction with those they rescued Nigeria from 10 years ago. If you are confused, thank you: I am also confused. There are slight differences, though. The APC rescuers of 2015 included President Muhammadu Buhari who ruled Nigeria from 2015 to 2023 during which insecurity ballooned: Boko Haram stayed alive, joined by the Islamic State in West Africa (ISWAP), bandits in the north-west and kidnappers everywhere. Another 2015 rescuer was President Bola Tinubu, under whom inflation has set new records. Among those the rescuers rescued Nigeria from in 2015 are ex-Senate President David Mark, who presided over the senate for eight years from 2007 to 2015 and whose party was accused of being the most corrupt and incompetent in the history of Africa. Mark is the interim chairman of the ADC, the latest rescuers. Another notable member of the “clueless” party from which we

All Set for Another Battle of Coalitions

The recent mass migration of some political grandees to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has, expectedly, ignited the landscape. But it is a season of migration in both directions. As key opposition figures are leaving their previous political parties for a not-sonew but potentially reinvigorated ADC so is the ruling party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), receiving high-heeled migrants (governors and legislators) from the other parties. Politicians on both sides are defecting, though one set of defections is more positively framed than the other set. There is so much we cannot know at this point in time, but it is safe to say that 2027 is setting up to be another election year when two or more coalitions will battle it out. The ruling party and the challengers, in different ways, are trying to achieve the same thing: assemble a winning coalition. This is not the first time we are witnessing such fevered quests. The success rate may be spotty but political parties or politicians of different parties coming together or planning to unite for political advantage in Nigeria is not as irregular as most people think. It comes

in different forms: alliances, mergers, takeovers and even anti-party activities. And though mostly designed to gain power, coalitions have also been wangled to govern. Our post-colonial history is replete with examples of political coalitions’ different manifestations.

The Northern Peoples Congress (NPC) formed a governing coalition with the National Convention of Nigerian Citizens (NCNC) after the 1959 elections and the National Party of Nigeria (NPN) banded with the Nigerian People’s Party (NPP) to rule in 1979 because the leading parties (NPC and NPN) did not get the required majority in parliament either to form government or to get important things done. Both coalitions eventually fell apart.

For the 1964/65 elections, NCNC ditched NPC and moved over to a new coalition called the United Progressive Grand Alliance (UPGA), which was formed with the Action Group (AG), the Northern Elements Progressive Union (NEPU), and the United Middle Belt Congress (UMBC). Basically, the ruling parties in the Eastern, Mid-West and Western regions formed an alliance with some minority parties in the Northern Region. NPC did not sit on its palms. It formed the Nigerian National

Alliance (NNA) with Chief Ladoke Akintola’s Nigerian National Democratic Party (NNDP), a breakaway from Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s AG. The UPGA challenge fell short but NNA’s victory was short-lived also as the First Republic was truncated.

In the build-up to the 1983 elections, the four opposition parties—Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN), NPP, the People’s Redemption Party (PRP), and the Great Nigeria People’s Party (GNPP)—mooted the People’s Progressive Alliance (PPA) as a united front to take on the ruling NPN. But the arrangement was undermined by the failure to agree on a consensus candidate. NPN overcame the spirited but diffused challenge of the opposition and upped its share of votes. The election was adjudged rigged and the contested victory didn’t last beyond three months as the military terminated the Second Republic.

There was no need for a coalition or alliance in the Third Republic because there were just two almost-evenly matched but decreed political parties (the Social Democratic Party, SDP, and the National Republican Convention, NRC), which were themselves coalitions of different political associations and tendencies in the country. The

current Fourth Republic kicked off with a coalition when two parties allied to take on the favoured and dominant party. The Alliance for Democracy (AD) and the All People’s Party (APP) presented a joint presidential ticket against the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), which still went on to win the 1999 presidential elections and two general elections after, staying in power for unbroken 16 years.

A major turning point for the experiment with political coalitions in Nigeria was in 2013 when three political parties (Action Congress of Nigeria, ACN, Congress for Progressive Change, CPC, and the All Nigeria Peoples Party, ANPP) allied with some factions of PDP and the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) to create APC. Unlike the other variants of party coalitions in the country, APC was an outright merger: ACN, CPC and ANPP were interred to give birth to a new entity. APC went on to defeat PDP in 2015, the only opposition party till date to upstage a ruling party through the ballot box. APC equally won the 2019 and 2023 presidential elections, though with reduced