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Dele Momodu alleges dual power structure in Nigeria, questions Wike’s rising influence

Renowned publisher and former presidential aspirant, Dele Momodu has raised concerns over what he described as the outsized influence of Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), NyesomWike within President Bola Tinubu’s administration, suggesting that Nigeria is operating under an unofficial dual leadership.

Speaking on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief yesterday, Momoducriticised President Tinubu’s apparent endorsement of Wike’s political style, following the commissioning of the newly refurbished International Conference Centre in Abuja, which has been renamed in Tinubu’shonour.

Momodu remarked, “Right now, it’s looking like we have two presidents in Nigeria. Wike can do anything. Even President Tinubu, who has controlled Lagos since 1999, was never this audacious.”

The comment came in response to Tinubu’s public praise of Wike during the inauguration ceremony, where the president urged the minister to ignore “busybodies and naysayers.”

Momodu strongly disagreed with Tinubu’s choice of words, stating, “I listened to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria calling fellow Nigerians ‘busybodies.’ You interpreted it as ‘naysayers’—‘naysayers’ is still far better. Who is a bystander in his own country because of one man?”

He also took a swipe at the scale of the conference centre project, questioning the rationale behind celebrating what he called “a ₦30 billion launch” with such fanfare.

“If you were in Wike’s shoes, you would dance more than he danced yesterday. I saw the expressions on the faces of the audience—they looked befuddled, like, ‘what is our country turning into?’” he added.

When you join APC, we will sing as “e dey pain them” together – Tinubu tells Wike

President Bola Tinubu has openly signaled his readiness to receive the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, NyesomWike into the All Progressives Congress (APC.

Speaking during the commissioning of Arterial Road N16 in Abuja’s Katampe District, Tinubu applauded Wike’s contributions to governance and jokingly referenced the former Rivers governor’s popular campaign slogan.

“We have somebody—NyesomWike—he is not a member of my party (APC), not yet. But the day he changes his mind and registers with the progressives, we will welcome him. Because we will enjoy singing ‘as e dey pain dem, e dey sweet us,’” Tinubu said, drawing laughter from the crowd and Wike himself.

Wike, though officially a PDP member, has been a prominent supporter of Tinubu since the 2023 general election. After the PDP’s internal fallout following its presidential primaries, Wike declined to support the party’s candidate, AtikuAbubakar, and instead threw his weight behind Tinubu.

Appointed FCT Minister in August 2023 by the APC-led administration, Wike has since pledged allegiance to President Tinubu’s leadership, even vowing to spearhead his re-election campaign in Rivers State come 2027.

“I am a key asset. I will lead President Tinubu’s re-election campaign in Rivers State,” Wike declared in a recent media briefing.

The tensions over Wike’s divided loyalties have resulted in a number of splits within the PDP, and calls for Wike to be expelled from the party have met with challenges from Wike’s own loyalist faction.

Particularly, on Monday, Wike referenced his position and uttered a demand from the “Concerned Stakeholders of the PDP” that the party must zone its presidential ticket in 2027 to the South of Nigeria in the spirit of inclusion and equity.

Moreover, Wike raised procedural issues, and he stated that only the National Secretary, currently Senator Sam Anyanwu, can call a meeting of the party in constitutional terms which directly underlined the current form of leadership.

Imo Ministries directed to forward all govt assets in their custody to Finance Commissioner

…As 17 new more roads get EXCO’s approval despite rain

All Ministries, Departments and Agencies in Imo State, have been directed to forward details of every government assets, including stocks in their custody, to the office of the Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Chuck Chuckuemeka.

The directive was part of the decisions reached Wednesday, June 11, 2025, from the weekly State Executive Council meeting.

The Imo State Ministry of Finance, under Mr. Chuckuemeka, is working on the consolidation of all assets of government under the umbrella of Ministry of Finance Incorporated (MOFIN), preparatory to incursion into the stock market.

Rising from the Imo State Executive Council Meeting presided over by the Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma, several other key decisions were reached.

Briefing newsmen after the session, the Commissioner for Information, Public Orientation and Strategy, Hon. Declan Emelumba, stated that the State Government is continuing with its road construction drive despite the rainy season.

Emelumba said several roads are nearing completion, while directives had been given to the Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure Development, Barr Ralph Nwosu, to arrange for the commissioning of the completed ones.

He was flanked by the Commissioners for Finance (Mr. Chuck Chuckuemeka), Works and Infrastructure Development (Barr. Ralph Nwosu), Industries and Solid Minerals (Hon. Ernest Ibejiako), Health (Dr. Mrs. Chioma Vivian Egu), and the Chief Press Secretary/Special Adviser Media to the Governor, OguwikeNwachuku.

Emelumba further disclosed that the Exco had approved contracts for 17 new roads, including the building of Imo Internal Revenue Service (IIRS) Office. The roads, he said, will span across all three zones of the State; Owerri, Okigwe and Orlu.

According to him, the roads that are getting rapid attention, despite the rains include, the Ihiala – Banana junction road, Orlu – Akokwa road, and Owerri – Umuahia road, among others, noting that “many of these roads have been completed and are waiting for commissioning.”

He said that apart from the decision made by the Exco to domicile all government assets with the Ministry of Finance Incorporated, there was a directive for immediate reassignment of staff from the Imo State Housing Corporation and the Imo State Hospital Management Board to their parent ministries.

The State Executive Council also designated the Solicitor-General, Barr. (Mrs.)Gloria Egwuagu as Acting Attorney General pending further notice.

Emelumba explained that the decisions were part of the government’s efforts to improve infrastructure and streamline governance in the State.

Okey Azuonwu Appointed Director General of Nkwachikwere Movement on Political Affairs

By Fredrick Njoku

The Nkwachikwere Movement has announced the appointment of Hon. Okey Azuonwu as its new Director General on Political Affairs. The appointment was formally approved by the Movement’s Founder and Chief Convener, Dr. Chijioke Kaduru, according to a press release issued by the Organisation’s Directorate in early June 2025.

Hon. Azuonwu brings a wealth of experience to the role, having served as the pioneer Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ngor Okpala Local Government Area. He is also a former Editor at The Moment Newspapers and previously served as Special Assistant (Media) to a Commissioner for Information and Strategy.

In his new role, Hon. Azuonwu is expected to oversee the day-to-day coordination of the Movement’s socio-political engagements, strategy development, and grassroots mobilization efforts.

His appointment comes shortly after his well-publicized return to the political fold in Ngor Okpala, marking what many observers see as a renewed momentum for the Movement’s political agenda in Imo State and beyond. The statement confirmed that Hon. Azuonwu has since assumed his new responsibilities.

Diphtheria outbreak: Aboh Mbaise LGA directs reopening of Schools.

Following the Advise from Health Staff, Headmistresses, and Headmasters that the Diphtheria disease has been contained to a minimum, the Executive Chairman of Aboh Local Government Area (LGA) Of Imo State, Barr. Iheukwumere Alaribe, has directed the reopening of Nursery, Primary, and Secondary schools in Aboh Mbaise, effective Today June 11, 2025.

In Press Release Signed by the Chief Press Secretary to the Executive Chairman Of Aboh Mbaise LGA Mr Dike Godspower said that to ensure a safe and healthy environment for all learners, the following guidelines must be strictly adhered to:

– All learners must provide evidence of vaccination before being allowed to resume classes.

– School Heads and administrators must report any incident promptly to the relevant authorities.

According to the release the Education Secretary and all School Heads are mandated to ensure strict compliance with these guidelines.

“Let’s work together to maintain a safe and healthy environment for our learners.”

The release also appreciated the efforts of the health workers for their diligence in containing the Diphtheria outbreak.

“We look forward to a successful and safe resumption of academic activities in our schools”

We won’t succumb to intimidation in fight against fake drugs — Onitsha drug market leader

…Says collaboration with NAFDAC remains strong and effective

The leadership of Ogbo-Ogwu Medicine Market, Onitsha, Anambra State, has firmly dismissed allegations that it is colluding with the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, (NAFDAC), to aid the sale of fake and expired drugs.

Speaking to journalists at the market’s union hall, the Chairman of the Caretaker Transition Committee, Mr. Ndubuisi Chukwuleta, described the claims as false, malicious, and an attempt to discredit the market’s ongoing efforts to rid itself of fake drug peddlers in partnership with NAFDAC.

Chukwuleta alleged that the accusations are being fueled by six suspended members of the committee who were removed by the Anambra State Government for misconduct and sabotaging the market’s reform efforts.

“The allegations of conniving with NAFDAC to sell fake drugs and protecting the agency’s interests over those of traders are baseless and intended to tarnish my image and that of the Transition Committee,” Chukwuleta said.

“We know the source of these lies—six suspended committee members who are uncomfortable with our leadership style and the progress we’ve made.”

Chukwuleta, who has been active in the market for over 32 years, emphasized his personal and professional integrity.

“I served my apprenticeship here for nine years and have run my own business for 32 years. In all that time, I’ve never been accused or found guilty of selling fake drugs. I detest fake drugs with a passion and would never promote such evil,” he stated.

He challenged the notion that assisting NAFDAC in sanitizing the market is a betrayal of traders’ interests.

“Over 95% of our traders are legitimate and honest. Working with NAFDAC to eliminate fake and substandard drugs protects both the public and our members,” he said.

Chukwuleta said the committee typically avoids responding to unfounded accusations but felt compelled to speak out due to the damage the falsehoods could cause if left unchallenged.

He recounted how, since taking office as chairman, he has faced multiple challenges, including being taken to police stations, courtrooms, and government offices—all in attempts to intimidate and frustrate him.

“Despite the pressures—including bribe offers ranging from N10 to N15 million—we have remained resolute in our fight against fake drugs. We confiscate and hand over fake and expired products worth over ₦70 million annually to NAFDAC for destruction, and we have documentation to prove it,” he stated.

He further added that their partnership with NAFDAC is not only functional but also based on mutual commitment to public safety.

“We will never relent in our mission to rid our market of illicit drug dealers. We cannot and will not succumb to intimidation or blackmail. Our relationship with NAFDAC in this fight remains cordial and strong,” Chukwuleta concluded.

43-year-old man jumps into well, dies after taking ‘Colos’

A 43-year-old man simply identified as Kazeem has died after jumping into a domestic well under the influence of a hard substance known as ‘Colo’ (Colorado) in Kwara State.

The lifeless body was recovered from a domestic well at Ile Alapo, Edun area of Ilorin metropolis.

The spokesman of the fire service, Hassan Adekunle, disclosed this in Ilorin on Saturday.

He stated that “the distress call was received by the fire service control room at about 10:29 hours, reporting that a man had fallen into a well”.

“The distress call was received by the Fire Service control room at about 10:29 hours, reporting that a man had fallen into a well. Firefighters were immediately deployed to the scene, where they successfully recovered the body from the well.

“The victim, identified as Kazeem, reportedly jumped into the well under the influence of a hard substance known as Colo (Colorado) shortly after returning from Eid prayers.

“The body was handed over to Inspector Babatunde Amos of the ‘C ‘ Division Police Station, Ilorin. The Ministry awaits formal identification and claim of the body by the victim’s family.

“The director of the Kwara State Fire Service, Prince Falade Olumuyiwa, admonish residents of the state to stay away from drug abuse, warning that such acts often lead to tragic outcomes,” Adekunle stated.

Edo residents ignore danger, scoop diesel from fallen tanker

Some residents of Benin City, Edo State capital threw caution to the winds when they besieged the scene of a fallen diesel tanker to scoop its leaked content.

The incident occurred yesterday at Ikpoba slope around a section of the road known for heavy vehicular traffic and challenging terrain for large trucks.

Eyewitnesses report that the tanker which was fully loaded with diesel, lost control and overturned while navigating the slope.

Within minutes of the accident, crowds of residents from nearby community stormed the scene with jerry cans, buckets, and various containers.

Despite the inherent danger, people were seen scooping the diesel directly from the road surface and drainage.

“I heard about it from my neighbour and rushed here with these containers,” said one female resident who declined to give her name.

“Fuel is expensive these days, so this is a blessing for us.”

The scene has raised serious safety concerns among authorities, as the fumes from the content can ignite fire at a location with crowd of people.

Police arrest couple for pouring hot water on widow

Police in Ebonyi State has arrested a couple, Chigozie and his wife, Ginika, for allegedly pouring hot water on their neighbor, a widow identified as Cynthia Ucha, at Akidi Street in Abakaliki, the state capital.

According to eyewitnesses, the incident began with a verbal altercation between Ginika and Cynthia, which escalated into a physical confrontation.

An eyewitness, identified as Ozioma, claimed that Chigozie, along with his children and brother-in-law, joined Ginika in assaulting the widow.

“They beat her to a pulp using clubs and other dangerous objects,” Ozioma alleged. “While the woman was already seriously injured, Ginika fetched a steaming pot of hot water and poured it on her.”

The eyewitness further claimed that the couple had previously threatened the widow on several occasions.

“Since she moved into the compound, she has kept to herself and tried to avoid conflict,” Ozioma said.

“But instead of allowing her to live peacefully, Ginika and her family have made her life unbearable.”

Following the incident, the suspects were initially detained at the Central Police Station and later transferred to the Special Weapons and Tactics, (SWAT), unit at the Police Headquarters in Abakaliki.

The Police Public Relations Officer of the Ebonyi State Command, SP Joshua Ukandu, confirmed the arrest and stated that the suspects would be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.

Seek true peace to avoid impeachment APC tells Fubara

The Rivers State chapter of the All Progressives Congress has warned suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara that only sincere reconciliation efforts can prevent his impeachment.

Speaking at a press conference in Abuja monitored in Owerri, Chairman of the APC Caretaker Committee, Tony Okocha, stated that the suspended governor has yet to initiate any meaningful steps to reconcile with the duly elected lawmakers in the state.

On March 18, President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State due to the ongoing political deadlock between FCT Minister Nyesom Wike and Governor Siminalayi Fubara.

Following this declaration, the President suspended Governor Fubara and the State House of Assembly, appointing retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas as sole administrator for a six-month tenure.

While the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors have challenged the President’s actions in court, recent meetings involving Tinubu, Wike, and the suspended governor indicate the beginning of possible reconciliation.

Okocha’s warning was issued amid rumours that President Tinubu may use the June 12 anniversary to reinstate Governor Fubara.

He stated, “I can confirm that there is no reconciliation effort currently underway in Rivers.

“The suspended Governor, Fubara, has not made any move to reconcile with the lawmakers.

“Only genuine reconciliation can save him from impeachment, as the Supreme Court judgment stands.”

APC chieftain, Jesutega Onokpasa, dies

An All Progressives Congress, (APC), chieftain, Jesutega Onokpasa, is reportedly dead.

The lawyer and prominent political commentator died on Monday.

Announcing his demise on his X account yesterday, a pro-APC crusader, Okezie Atani, said the prominent political commentator was survived by his wife and children.

He wrote, “We lost Barr. Jesutega Onokpasa, may his soul rest in perfect peace.”

A Facebook page named Renewed Hope United Kingdom also wrote a tribute entitled “A Farewell to a Passionate Advocate: Honouring Jesutega Onokpasa’s Legacy” to announce the late APC chieftain’s demise.

It wrote, “The passing of Barrister Jesutega Onokpasa is a profound loss to the Nigerian political and legal landscape. As a dedicated lawyer and political commentator, he was deeply engaged in shaping discourse and advocating for his beliefs.

“His contributions as a member of the APC Publicity Committee and the APC Presidential Campaign Council in 2023 reflected his commitment to his party and the nation. Onokpasa’s voice, whether in support or critique, was a vital part of Nigeria’s democratic conversation, and his absence will be deeply felt. May his family, friends, and colleagues find strength and solace in this difficult time.

“May His Soul Rest in Perfect Peace. Amen.”

Onokpasa, an APC’s Presidential Campaign Council member in 2023, passed away under yet-to-be-disclosed circumstances.

He also served on the APC’s Publicity Committee.

He gained national attention for his political commentary and staunch support for President Bola Tinubu, often appearing on TV to defend the administration.

Lagos court jails nine Chinese for cybercrimes

Justice D. E. Osiagor of the Federal High Court in Ikoyi, Lagos, has convicted and sentenced nine Chinese nationals to one-year imprisonment each for cyber-terrorism and internet fraud, following their arrest in a major sting operation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, (EFCC).

According to a statement on Tuesday via X by the EFCC, the convicts, identified as LI Dong, Deng Wei Qiang, Huang Bo, Xiong Zhen, Lai Rui Feng, Zhao Xiao Hui, Lui Hai Rong, Lui Gang, and Du Ji Feng, were part of a syndicate of 792 alleged cryptocurrency investment and romance fraud suspects apprehended on December 19, 2024.

The EFCC’s Lagos Zonal Directorate 2 charged the nine individuals in February 2025 with one count separate charges of cyber-terrorism and internet fraud.

The charge stated, “That you, LI Dong, Deng Wei Qiang, Huang Bo, Xiong Zhen, Lai Rui Feng, Zhao Xiao Hui, Lui Hai Rong, Lui Gang and Du Ji Feng, sometime in December, 2024 at Lagos, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, conspired amongst yourselves to commit an offence to wit: cause to be accessed computer system used for the purpose of destabilising and destroying the economy and social structure of Nigeria and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 27 (1) (b) and punishable under Section 18(1) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc) Act 2015.”

Initially pleading “not guilty,” the defendants reversed their pleas to “guilty” during a court session on June 5, 2025.

Prosecution counsel, Nnaemeka Omewa, urged the court to convict and sentence them accordingly, a request supported by the defence counsel.

Justice Osiagor subsequently sentenced each defendant to one year in prison, effective from their arrest date of December 10, 2025, and imposed a fine of N1,000,000 on each.

The court further ordered that the convicts be repatriated to their country of origin within seven days of completing their sentences, as directed to the Comptroller General of Immigration.

Additionally, mobile phones, computers, laptops, and routers seized during the EFCC’s “Eagle Flush Operation” were forfeited to the Federal Government.

Abuja CP orders woman’s arrest over child abuse

The Commissioner of Police, Federal Capital Territory, (FCT), Adewale Ajao, has ordered the immediate arrest of a woman alleged to have subjected a 14-year-old girl to starvation and physical abuse in Abuja.

The directive comes after a disturbing video surfaced online showing the girl, identified as Bashariya, narrating her ordeal in Hausa.

According to the footage, monitored on Monday by our correspondent, Bashariya, originally from Zamfara State, was taken to Abuja after her parents fled their hometown due to incessant bandit attacks.

They sought refuge in an Internally Displaced Persons camp in the Gwiwa Eka area.

In the viral clip, the teenager revealed that she was hired as a maid and taken to Abuja under the promise of a better life.

Instead, she claimed she was starved, beaten, and even burnt as a form of punishment.

Visible bruises and burn marks were seen on various parts of her body, prompting public outrage and calls for justice on social media.

Speaking with our correspondent on Monday, the FCT Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, confirmed that the Commissioner of Police had taken swift action upon seeing the video.

She said the Divisional Police Officers across the FCT had been directed to locate and arrest the woman responsible for the abuse.

“Although the incident was not initially reported to the police, the Commissioner of Police, Adewale Ajao, has directed all Divisional Police Officers within the FCT to urgently identify and arrest the woman involved,” Adeh stated.

She continued, “The CP strongly condemns any act of child abuse. He emphasises that anyone who knows they are not capable of properly caring for a child should refrain from taking on such responsibility. No child should be made to suffer such cruelty.”

Adeh further urged residents of the FCT and beyond to remain vigilant and report any suspicious or abusive behaviour to law enforcement.

“When you see something, say something. Together, we can ensure the safety and well-being of every child in our communities,” she added.

Army Major dies in Kogi kidnappers den

A retired Major in the Nigerian Army, Joe Ajayi, who was kidnapped at his residence in Odo-Ape, Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State a few weeks ago, has died in the kidnappers’ den despite a ransom of N10m paid for his rescue.

Major Ajayi was kidnapped on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, from his residence around 11:30 pm by gunmen who shot sporadically.

It was gathered that the initial demands of N50m ransom by the abductors lingered when the family could not pay.

This resulted in his health deteriorating, as he had no means to get his medication.

It was gathered that the kidnappers informed the family that their plea for his medication to be forwarded to him would come at an extra cost, a concession that couldn’t be met by the family.

However, as soon as the abductors discovered that Ajayi couldn’t survive, they reduced the ransom to N10m.

A source in the community said the Ajayi family, believing he was still alive, quickly agreed to pay the amount for his rescue.

“Once the ransom was paid, the kidnappers directed the family to where they would find him, only for them to meet his (Ajayi’s) lifeless body,” he told our correspondent.

The retired army officer’s remains has been deposited at the Kabba Specialist Hospital Mortuary.

Efforts to get a reaction from the state police command proved abortive as neither the Public Relations Officer, William Aya, nor the state Commissioner of Police, Miller Dantawaye, took their various calls.

They also did not respond to text messages sent to them as of the time of filling this report.

It would be recalls that the state governor, Ahmed Ododo, while speaking at the Eid ground last Sallah in Okene, appealed to residents to remain calm, as efforts to rid the criminal elements out of the state were already yielding positive results.

Kidnapping has surged in the state for a while now, with the abduction of a first-class monarch, Oba James Dada Ogunyanda, the Oba Okoloke in Yagba West Local Government Area, who was in the same way abducted from his home in early May. He’s yet to be released either.

Army denies alleged Islamisation plot

The Nigerian Army has refuted allegations contained in a trending video alleging that the establishment of the Nigerian Army School of Islamic Affairs, which is supposed to be a force of unity in a secular country, is aimed at Islamising and destroying the nation.

A trending video recalled that the initiation of such policies in countries like Turkey and Libya resulted in a crisis which the countries and others like them are yet to recover from.

The video urged the Army to focus on the fight against insecurity, bandits and terrorists as well as defend Nigeria’s territorial integrity and secularism rather than allegedly diverting from its mandate and engaging in worrisome policies.

Responding in a statement, the Army headquarters said it has been notified of a viral report suggesting that it runs a School of Islamic Affairs, ignoring other faiths.

“The viral report also made a futile effort to portray the Nigerian Army as exclusively encouraging religious bigotry among its personnel.

“Considering the gravity of this falsehood, the Nigerian Army wishes to categorically state that this propaganda in its entirety is dead on arrival as it clearly does not reflect the values of our esteemed institution.

“The Nigerian Army is a secular organisation that upholds the principle of religious freedom for all its personnel and ensures that personnel, irrespective of ranks, is free to practice their religions without any form of bias or endorsement of a specific religion.

“Our unwavering commitment to secularism guarantees that religious diversity is respected and accommodated, allowing soldiers to observe their faith without hindrance to their duties.

“For clarity, the Nigerian Army operates multiple religious training institutions to cater for the diverse faiths of our personnel.

“In addition to the Nigerian Army School of Islamic Affairs located in Nigerian Army Cantonment Ikeja, Lagos, the Nigerian Army also has the Nigerian Army Protestant Training School in Yaba and the Nigerian Army Chaplain Catholic Training School in Ojo Cantonment.

“These schools frequently engage in interfaith collaborations, promoting unity and cohesion among our diverse members.

“Our dedication to secularism is aimed at fostering a professional and inclusive environment where individuals can serve their country without fear of religious discrimination or bias.

“This approach ensures that all officers and soldiers can practice their beliefs in a supportive and respectful setting.

“The Nigerian Army remains steadfast in its commitment to upholding the values of secularism and religious freedom, ensuring that all personnel can serve with dignity and respect for their individual beliefs,” the statement read.

Alvan holds grand reception for Imo Deputy Governor

By Jude Onyenedogha

The atmosphere of Alvan Ikokwu Federal University of Education was fully charged, yesterday as Management, staff and students rolled out the drums for a grand reception for the Deputy Governor of Imo State, Lady (Dr) Chinyere Ekomaru.

The event was originally planned and held as a grand reception for  the deputy governor by Mbaitoli Staff Welfare Association, Alvan, but with the acceptance and touch of the Vice Chancellor and Management of the University, it turned out to be an affair of the entire University.

The deputy governor was a staff of Alvan and a full fledged member of the Mbaitoli Staff Welfare Association before she was selected as the running mate to Senator Hope Uzodimma, during his second term governorship race, which they won, resulting to her emergence as the deputy governor of the state.

Speaking at the event, the deputy governor appreciated the association for the honour done her, promising to remain forever grateful to them.

She dedicated the award to Governor Uzodimma, who she re-emphasized, provided her with platform to be celebrated, “and most importantly, contribute my own quota to the progress and development of Imo state”.

The deputy governor used the opportunity to charge the management and staff of the institution to pay more attention to the upbringing of the children and youths entrusted to their care, especially at the nursery and primary level.

She challenged every welfare association in the school to take a clue from the Mbaitoli Welfare Association, to develop their association, even to the level of Corporative Society, to enable their members get more benefits from it.

Earlier in his remarks, Chairman of the occasion, Venerable Doctor Emmanuel Agoha, a senior lecturer in the Religion and Cultural Studies Department of the University said the institution celebrated the deputy governor, because she left good legacies in the school for over 22 years she served there as an academic staff.

“Also, since her assumption of office as deputy governor of Imo State, she has performed excellently well, helping the governor to make sure that there is smooth and seamless running of government, bringing about prosperity and success in the state”.

Before proceeding to the venue of the reception, the deputy governor first paid a courtesy visit to the Acting Vice Chancellor of the University, Prof Aloysius Onyeka.

Onyeka while welcoming the deputy governor in his office, expressed excitement at hosting her and other distinguished guests and appreciated Mbaitoli Alvan Welfare Association for attracting the deputy governor.

He disclosed that he was in the fourth month of his six months transitional administration, saying his desire of paying the Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma a courtesy visit and attracting him to the University was almost fulfilled with the coming of the deputy governor.

Highlight of the event included different awards and gifts to the deputy governor, including a gigantic portrait and award plaque from the Mbaitoli Alvan Staff Welfare Association, award and gift from Alvan SUG, award from Mbaitolu Students Association, conferment of the title of Ezinne Achalugo on her by Alvan Students traditional association.

Among dignitaries who accompanied the deputy governor to the grand reception were; member representing Mbaitoli/Ikeduru at the Federal House of Representatives, Hon. Akarachi Amadi, chairman Mbaitolu LGA, Hon. Ifunanya Nwanebu,  chairman, Ikeduru LGA, Hon. Justice Nze, member representing Mbaitoli LGA in Imo House of Assembly, Hon Innocent Ikpamezie, APC Apex Leader in Mbaitoli, Chief Marcelinus Nlemigbo, Managing Director of Imo Rural Roads Maintenance Agency (IRROMA), Hon. Kingsley Ononuju.

Also present were the Principal Secretary (CD) Office of the Deputy Governor, Pastor Chris Akushie, the Chief Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor, Dr. Charles Uzopuo, other principal staff of the office of the deputy governor and entire staff of the office.

Agric expert warns against food insecurity in Southeast

From Henrietta Ashikodi, Umuahia

The Chief Executive Officer of Kitovu Technology Nig Ltd, Mr. Nwachinemere Emeka, has disclosed that food insecurity is eminent in Southeast with the continuous herders farmers clash climate change and soil degradation.

Mr Emeka made this known in Abia Ministry of Agricultural while interacting with a section of journalists.

He called on stakeholders including government, farmers to act fast and key into this year farming season.

Emeka stated that Southeast depend, heavily from food that comes from the North, adding that with climate change, herders farmers clash, if nothing is done, and if government does not invest more in agriculture, food insecurity is eminent in the zone.

He urged government to always remember the lesson COVID-19 thought all, where there were total lockdown and there was no movement of goods and Services.

He however commended governor Alex Otti for the numerous efforts put in place to ensure food sufficiency in Abia.

Emeka disclosed that the governor has taken a bold step by accepting to digitalized agriculture in the state adding that his company, Kitovu has been contacted and currently collating names of farmers, location of farms and what they produce for digitalized Agriculture in the state.

He said when this is achieved, the state would be able to have a comprehensive data with information of farmers in the state and would end the era of portfolio farmers who are riping where they did not sow.

Mr Emeka disclosed that the benefit of digitalized agriculture is that there will be comprehensive policy in agriculture which government can rely on, farmers can be connected globally and aid them in competition, and with a touch of the computer they can link to any part of the world and also it will enable government know the real farmers they have in the state and deal directly with them in times of interventions.

He reiterated that his company has done full enumeration of farmers in Abia North Senatorial zone, 70% already done in Abia Central and in few weeks that of Abia South Senatorial zone will commence.

Emeka disclosed that they will train staff of ministry of Agriculture on how to access their platform for the betterment of farmers, adding also that his company also put into consideration storage facilities adding that when farmers do not have where they secure their farm produce they losses.

He stated that Kitovu is into building multiple solution, supporting farmers, giving advice to farmers and encouraging the youths to embrace farming.

Emeka hinted that Kitovu is currently operating in three countries, Nigeria, Benin Republic and Ruwanda.

Alert: NSCDC raises alarm over fake recruitment

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Ogun command, has warned the general public against a fake recruitment scam circulating on social media, stating that no recruitment exercise was currently ongoing.

This is contained in a statement issued in Abeokuta yesterday by the command’s spokesperson, Mr. Dyke Ogbonnaya.

According to Ogbonnaya, some scammers are using a senior officer’s photographs and goodwill to deceive and swindle unsuspecting individuals.

He clarified that official channels and media outlets would announce any genuine recruitment exercises.

Ogbonnaya, however, advised the public to be cautious and vigilant to avoid falling victim to these scammers.

“We have been intimated of the social media scam by a syndicate group of unsuspecting persons using the photographs and goodwill of a senior officer in the Corps to smartly swindle individuals, groups, and others of their monies through this negative scheme.

“The Corps is using this medium to warn the general public to completely dismiss and avoid any such wrong impressions because it is a scam.

“The Corps, through its team of intelligence and surveillance, is doing everything in its power to uncover this syndicate and bring them to justice.

“Before this is unravelled, we hereby disassociate the Corps and the senior officer in that fake/scam alert from such anomalies and also warn those behind it to desist from such criminal acts.

“On a last note, if the Corps is going to recruit, there is a channel and always a general notification on such in the various media. Until then, let us stay safe from this bunch of scammers,” he said.

He, however, assured the public that efforts are underway by the command to uncover and bring the perpetrators to justice.

He also urged residents to be aware and report any suspicious activities.

FG declares Thursday public holiday to mark Democracy Day

The Federal Government has declared Thursday as a public holiday to commemorate the 2025 Democracy Day celebration.

This is contained in a statement by the Ministry of Interior’s Permanent Secretary, Magdalene Ajani, on Sunday in Abuja.

Ajani disclosed that the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, while declaring the holiday on behalf of the Federal Government, congratulated Nigerians for an uninterrupted 26 years of civil rule.

Tunji Ojo said, “June 12 represents our historic journey to building a nation where truth and justice reign and peace is sustained and our future assured.

“The last 26 years tells the story of our resilience, strength and courage and a hope Renewed than ever.’’

He reiterated the commitment of the Renewed Hope government of President Bola Tinubu to the universal value of democracy based on freely expressed will of the people in determining Nigeria’s political, economic, social and cultural systems.

Nigerian govt forfeits $4m from World Bank loan

The Nigerian government may lose $4 million from a World Bank loan after failing to get a pass mark on key audit standards in its revenue-generating agencies, such as the Federal Inland Revenue Service and the Nigeria Customs Service.

This is according to a World Bank restructuring paper dated June 2025.

The amount, which is the equivalent of around N6.2 billion with an exchange rate of N1,568 per dollar, could have helped to address one of Nigeria’s infrastructural deficits.

The fund formed part of the $103 million Fiscal Governance and Institutions Project, a public financial management initiative financed through a credit facility from the International Development Association.

Accordingly, the revenue assurance audit covering the FIRS and Customs for the 2018 to 2021 financial years was assessed as not achieved because the reports submitted did not meet international auditing standards.

“Revenue assurance audit of Main Income Generating Agencies, including the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), and the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), for FY 2018–2021, with an allocation of $4m.

“These Intermediate Results to be implemented by the Office of Auditor-General of the Federation were assessed as not achieved by the Independent Verification Agent because the reports submitted for verification did not meet the requisite international auditing standards.”

Also, the unsuccessful audit was one of ten performance-based conditions under the project that the government could not deliver before the closing date of June 30, 2025. Consequently, the Federal Ministry of Finance formally requested the cancellation of $10.4 million in project funds.

“The FMF has requested cancellation of $0.9m of unused funds for technical assistance and $9.5m, which is the amount allocated to 10 performance-based conditions, which will not be achieved by the close of the project on June 30, 2025,” the document read.

Further analysis shows that $4.5 million was tied to the uncompleted Revenue Assurance and Billing System, while $1 million was allocated to the development of a National Budget Portal.

According to the document, the Budget Office of the Federation, which was responsible for the portal, did not submit any evidence of achievement. In addition, $0.9 million in technical assistance funding was left uncommitted and has also been cancelled.

2027: No need for coalition against Tinubu – Orji Kalu tells opposition

Abia North senator, Orji Uzor Kalu has said that the coalition of opposition politicians, aimed at defeating President Bola Tinubu in 2027, is not what Nigerians need.

Kalu, who spoke in his country home, Igbere yesterday, said Nigerians are in need of a leader who will revamp the economy and provide food for them, not coalition.

He said that the President has done very well so far and deserves the support of all Nigerians for a second term.

According to him, the coalition will not stop the President from being reelected as his achievements would return him to Aso Rock.

While acknowledging that many Nigerians are suffering from hunger, Kalu said Tinubu is already addressing the situation with his naira stabilisation and other economic programs.

“People are saying that they are building coalition. That is not what the people want.

“The masses need a concrete evidence that the economy can be rebuilt, that there would be food on the table of every Nigerian. President Bola Tinubu is addressing the hunger in the land,” Kalu said.

He dismissed the claims that his recent visit to Governor Alex Otti could earn him suspension from his party, APC, saying that the visit was a private arrangement, not an endorsement of the governor for 2027.

The former Abia State governor also lamented the activities of vandals who steal electricity cables and other public properties in parts of Abia North.

He promised that he is engaging with Enugu Electricity Distribution Company, (EEDC) to restore power in many communities in the zone.

Kalu who said there is no a rift between him and the Deputy Speaker of House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, urged the rep to declare to Abia people if he is running for the office of Abia State Governor in 2027 or not.

Fubara’s sins’ll not be forgiven even if he joins APC – Tony Okocha

Factional Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State, Tony Okocha, has declared that the alleged misconduct of suspended Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, cannot be pardoned, even if he defects to the party.

Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja, Okocha stated that Fubara’s alleged offences were not merely political, but constituted actions “against the people of Rivers State,” citing interpretations from the Supreme Court. He dismissed reports of reconciliation efforts, claiming he was unaware of any peace initiative from the embattled governor.

Okocha also accused Fubara of inciting political tension by allegedly boasting about returning to power, which he says has emboldened the governor’s supporters and fueled unrest.

This development comes roughly three months after President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, suspending several elected officials over security concerns.

First Lady distributes 10,000 professional kits to midwives, nurses in Southeast

First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu yesterday launched the distribution of professional kits to 10,000 midwives and nurses across the five Southeast states of Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu and Imo.

This initiative, according to her, is part of the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) aimed at reducing infant and maternal mortality and morbidity across the country.

Speaking before distributing the kits at the International Conference Centre(ICC), Enugu, Senator Tinubu disclosed that the number brought to a total of 60,000 kits (scrubs and Crocs) that had been so far distributed across the six geopolitical zones of the country to provide midwives with the right tools and kits to encourage them in their work and improve healthcare delivery.

She said: “We are here today to flag off the distribution of the professional kits which will be distributed among the five states in the Southeast zone. Since the initial launch in January 2025, we have distributed 50,000 professional kits in five zones, namely Northcentral, Northeast, Northwest, Southsouth, Southwest and today, we are in Enugu to distribute the remaining 10,000 kits for the Southeest, making this the sixth and last zone. I thank God that today we’re concluding the distribution of these kits to every part of Nigeria. I’m very excited about that”.

The First Lady disclosed that the donation had been made possible through the generous support of an anonymous global partner dedicated to improving health outcomes for citizens.

“My first interaction with this partner was at the United Nations General Assembly in 2023, followed by a meeting at the African Union Summit in 2024. The donor is committed to supporting the organisation of African First Ladies for Development and the healthcare sector in Nigeria with a specific focus on reducing infant and maternal morbidity and mortality,” she noted.

She disclosed that on Tuesday, June 10th, she would launch the Free to Shine campaign and the Triple Elimination Initiative targeting HIV/AIDS, syphilis, and hepatitis among women of reproductive age, in order to enhance the capacity of healthcare workers.

“Tomorrow(Tuesday, by the grace of God, I will be launching the free to shine triple elimination campaign for HIV AIDS, syphilis and hepatitis here in Enugu State.

“This initiative aims to promote healthier mothers, reduce new HIV infections among women of reproductive age, eliminate mother to child transmission of HIV, which is also the vertical transmission and provide treatment for children born with HIV,” she said.

 

The First Lady also announced a donation of N100 million to be distributed among 1500 women petty traders in Enugu State by the wife if the state governor, Mrs. Nkechinyere Mbah.

“The Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) will be providing an additional grant of N50 million to the wife of the governor of Enugu State to support 1000 women petty traders in Enugu State with the sum of N50,000 each to recapitalise their existing businesses.

“Also another N50 million courtesy of Tony Elumelu Foundation to another 500 petty traders,” she said.

While commending Enugu Governor Peter Mbah and his wife, Nkechinyere for making the event a success, the First Lady lauded the coordinating minister of health and social welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali and his brother, Dr. Salako for their partnership and for their efforts.

“The executive director and CEO of the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency, Dr. Muyi Aina and the entire workforce for their dedication which focus on improving healthcare delivery for our citizens as an important pillar of development in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” she said.

Wife of Enugu State governor, Mrs. Nkechinyere Mbah, expressed great pleasure that the First Lady’s “inspiring political career has been dedicated to improving the well-being of the masses and ensuring that no one feels left behind”, stating that Senator Tinubu’s presence in Enugu only reaffirmed such commitment and endearing work ethic.

“We extend our heartfelt appreciation for your selfless commitment to building an inclusive society, especially in the healthcare sector, as exemplified through the Renewed Hope Initiative.

“This initiative has significantly impacted countless lives across our nation’s diverse geopolitical zones. Your noble endeavour has brought succour and hope to communities that have long yearned for such intervention. Here in Enugu State, we are profoundly grateful for the transformative outcomes of the Renewed Hope Initiative.

“Midwives are at the front lines of maternal and child health. Empowering these important healthcare workers is crucial to the push to reduce maternal and under-5 mortality rates radically.

“The distribution of 10,000 professional kits—comprising Scrubs and Crocs—to our dedicated midwives across every zone is a significant boost to strengthening our healthcare system.

“This thoughtful gesture is a powerful affirmation of the value and dignity we place on our healthcare professionals. You haven’t simply voiced your ideals, Ma; you have also put them into action. This is a true reflection of transformative leadership,” Mrs. Mbah said.

National Open University not inferior to other universities – Obasanjo

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has said that the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) is not inferior to other universities in the country.

Obasanjo stated this yesterday when he played host to some of the university’s officials who came on a courtesy visit and alumni award presentation.

The former president said he has firsthand experience of the standard of the institution, hence his declaration.

He noted that in the past, there had only been one university in Nigeria for about 10 years, which is the University of Ibadan.

According to him, the second generation of universities, which are the federal and state universities, were also established just as the third generation, which are the private universities, also came into existence.

Obasanjo, however, said that despite these efforts, there was still a wide gap in university education in Nigeria, hence the establishment of NOUN, to ease the academic burden for those working or seeking distance learning.

“Despite the availability of universities, we’re still not coping; the gaps kept getting wider, which was why I said Open University is a necessity; it created more avenues and made it convenient for working-class citizens.

“Some people rose up, saying open university is inferior to non-open universities, but I was not discouraged.

“I said, let me go there and have a taste of what they’re saying it is inferior. Then I came in, I saw and I conquered.

“Two distinguished lecturers supervised me and supervised many other PhD students, and if they supervised me successfully, my PhD wouldn’t be inferior.

“So, if mine isn’t inferior and those before me are not inferior, National Open University has come to stay; at some point, we were more than half a million, and we are still growing,” Obasanjo said.

The former president assured the officials of his maximum support for the institution.

Prof. Ganiyat Adesina-Uthman, the Director at the Directorate of Advancement and Linkages (DAL) of National Open University, declared that NOUN has been a great blessing, not just to Nigeria and Nigerians but to African countries.

Adesina-Uthman added that the university is not just a federal university but one of its kind in Africa and the biggest on the continent.

The DAL said the institution set out to assist Nigeria in human capital development to meet the international standard for manpower per 1000 population for a sustainable knowledge-based economy while also being effective in training human capital development for neighbouring countries.

She appealed to Obasanjo to support the university scholarships for the best programmes, which include scholarships for students from the flagship programmes.

Adesina-Uthman listed some of the institutions’ other needs to include the renaming of some buildings after the donors, a university hospital, a 50-room guest house and a 1000-capacity auditorium, among others.

“We need scholarships for some of our flagship programmes, including Entrepreneurship Studies, Criminology and Security Studies, Mass Communication, Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution and Indigenous Students, too.

“We also want our Advancement and Linkages building named after the donor; University Hospital, 50 rooms; and NOUN Guest House, a 1000-capacity auditorium.

“Also, community services to our study centres’ host communities, such as consumables to primary and secondary schools in our host communities, e.g., customised textbooks and uniforms; water and toilet provisions; bus stop stands and so on,” she said.

Also speaking, Prof. Wilfred Ngwuanyi, the Director of Olusegun Obasanjo Centre for Africa Study at NOUN, commended Obasanjo’s intellectual rigour, strategic foresight and consistent advocacy for African self-reliance.

He appealed to Obasanjo to assist the centre in collaborating with EFCC on research and publications.

He also sought the collaboration of the Chinese embassy in the establishment of a Chinese cultural centre through the former president.

Thereports  indicated that the highlight of the event is the conferment of the Alumni Award member to the former president.

After God, my loyalty lies with Tinubu – Umahi

Minister of Works, Sen. David Umahi has declared that after God, his loyalty lies with President Bola Tinubu, saying that he takes instructions only from the duo.

Umahi made the declaration in Abakaliki while speaking with newsmen on the president’s recent commendation on him over some infrastructural feats.

The minister said the commendation was worth more than one trillion dollars to him as it shows he was on the right track and that God answers prayers.

“I have told the president even publicly that my loyalty is to God first and then, him.

“When a man gives you the type of trust Tinubu has given me, you will.be of the devil to betray him,” he said.

He said that anyone who betrayed Tinubu after receiving such a level of trust and support would incur the wrath of God.

“Have you seen where a man presided over the procurement of a project worth N1.6 trillion, and his boss did not call him to ask how he went about it?

“I am talking about one section of the project, depending on the length.

“I pray every day that if I place myself, family and friends over God, Tinubu and Nigerians, let Him not answer me,” he said.

Umahi vowed to continue praying for Tinubu and all those who love him and appreciate what his doing.

“I also dedicate the president’s commendation to all those who pray for me to succeed in serving the people.

“This means that contractors would be on their toes to complete about 30 mega projects which the president will inaugurate by Dec.20.

“I am involved in the construction and inspection of the projects scattered across the six geo-political zones of the country,” he said.

Criminals using new tactics in Imo – Victims cry out

Uneasy calm is now sweeping through Owerri, as criminals have found another way of getting people for possible organ harvesting.

A victim of this new crime, Onyekwere Edward Emeka, narrated his ordeal to newsmen in Owerri.

His words: “I am Onyekwere Edward Emeka, a native of Olakwo Enyiogugu. My near-ugly incident happened on May 28, 2025.

“I was waiting for a bus a the Fire Service Roundabout that would take me to Mbaise. This was about 8 a.m.

“I saw an Imo bus, stopped it and entered. Within a short time, the driver asked me to give him N1,000 change.

“After giving him the change, I started feeling dizzy. I can’t say for how long I was in that helpless state, but I later found out that I had been tied up and blindfolded!

“This time, I was no longer in a moving bus, but inside a bush! I heard a voice shouting at me and seeking to know what I was doing in the bush.

“I responded by shouting for help. So, the person came close to me and asked what had happened to me. After explaining my ordeal to him, I asked him where I was, and he answered, Ngor Okpala.

“He asked if they beat me or collected anything from me, and I said no. The man now said the criminals must have abandoned me and run away, on seeing him coming.

“He asked if the people had collected my mobile phone, and I said no. He took my phone and snapped me before he untied me.

“As my rescuer was taking me out of the bush, I asked him his name and address, but he bluntly refused to tell me because he felt that he could be branded a prime suspect if he did.

“He finally brought me out of the bush, took me to Ihitte Junction on the Owerri -Aba road and out me in a vehicle that brought me back to Owerri.”

Asked if he reported the matter to the police, he said: “I didn’t report it to the police. I do not know the vehicle registration number and can’t even identify the driver, even if an identification parade is arranged now.

“I only want to alert the public of the new wave of crime in the state. Eternal vigilance should be our watchword.”

Frederick Forsyth, who quit BBC job to report Biafra genocide, dies at 86

Best-selling author Frederick Forsyth, known for thriller novels including The Day of the Jackal, has died at the age of 86, his agent has said.

“We mourn the passing of one of the world’s greatest thriller writers,” Jonathan Lloyd said in a statement.

Forsyth published more than 25 books, also including The Odessa File and The Dogs of War, and sold 75 million books around the world, he said.

For Ndigbo, Forsyth who joined the BBC in 1965, will be most remembered as the man who quit his BBC job to report the genocide against them in the late 1960s.

His publisher Bill Scott-Kerr said: “Still read by millions across the world, Freddie’s thrillers define the genre and are still the benchmark to which contemporary writers aspire. He leaves behind a peerless legacy which will continue to excite and entertain for years to come.”

Born in Kent in 1938, Forsyth was an RAF pilot before becoming a war correspondent for the BBC and Reuters, and revealed in 2015 he also worked for British intelligence agency MI6 for more than 20 years.

Many of his fictional plots drew on his real-life experiences around the world.

He made his name with his first novel, 1971’s The Day Of The Jackal, which he wrote when he was out of work.

“(I was) skint, in debt, no flat, no car, no nothing and I just thought, ‘How do I get myself out of this hole?’ And I came up with probably the zaniest solution – write a novel,” he said.

It is a gripping tale, set in 1963, about an Englishman hired to assassinate the French president at the time, Charles de Gaulle.

The Day Of The Jackal was turned into a 1973 film starring Edward Fox as the Jackal, and then became a TV drama starring Eddie Redmayne last year.

Forsyth died on Monday after a brief illness, a statement said.

“We mourn the passing of one of the world’s greatest thriller writers,” Mr Lloyd said.

“Only a few weeks ago I sat with him as we watched a new and moving documentary of his life – In My Own Words, to be released later this year on BBC One – and was reminded of an extraordinary life, well lived.

“After serving as one of the youngest ever RAF pilots, he turned to journalism, using his gift for languages in German, French and Russian to become a foreign correspondent in Biafra.

“Appalled at what he saw and using his experience during a stint as a Secret service agent, he wrote his first and perhaps most famous novel, The Day of the Jackal, and instantly became a global bestselling author.”

Mr. Scott-Kerr said working with Forsyth had been “one of the great pleasures of my professional life”.

“The flow of brilliant plots and ideas aside, he was the most professional writer an editor could hope for,” he said.

“His journalistic background brought a rigour and a metronomic efficiency to his working practice and his nose for and understanding of a great story kept his novels both thrillingly contemporary and fresh. It was a joy and an education to watch him at work.”

Forsyth followed The Day of the Jackal with The Odessa File in 1972, which was adapted for the big screen in a film starring Jon Voight two years later.

The author had written a follow-up, Revenge of Odessa, with fellow thriller writer Tony Kent, which will be published this August.

His other best-selling works included 1984’s The Fourth Protocol, which became a film starring Michael Caine and Pierce Brosnan.

Frederick Forsyth wrote The Day of the Jackal in just 35 days.

But for Ndigbo, Forsyth who joined the BBC in 1965, will be most remembered as the man who quit his BBC job to report the genocide against them in the late 1960s.

Two years after joining the BBC, he was sent to Nigeria to cover the civil war that followed the secession of Biafra.

When the fighting dragged on far longer than had been expected, Forsyth asked permission to stay and cover it. According to his autobiography, the BBC told him “it is not our policy to cover this war”.

“I smelt news management,” he said. “I don’t like news management.”

He quit his job and continued to cover the war as a freelance reporter for the next two years.

He chronicled his experiences in The Biafra Story, which was published in 1969. He later claimed that, while in Nigeria, he began working for MI6, a relationship that continued for two decades.

He also became friends with the Biafran leader, General Emeka Odumegwu-Ojukwu. He even wrote a biography of Ojukwu titled “Emeka”. Forsyth was also involved with Ojukwu’s children after the war.

My friendship with Tinubu predates party politics – Otti

…Pledges continued support for the president’s economic policies

Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has declared continued support for President Ahmed Bola Tinubu’s economic policies, saying that his friendship with the President predates party politics.

Otti, who spoke on Sunday when he received in audience a former Governor of the state and Senator representing Abia North, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu; and Senator Chris Adighije said the President’s economic policies, though painful at the moment, “are necessary economic decisions to fix Nigeria”.

The duo of Kalu and Adighije, are chieftains of the All Progressives Congress, APC, while Otti is the only Labour Party Governor in Nigeria at the moment.

Describing the fuel subsidy regime as a scam, Gov. Otti said removal of the subsidy was long overdue.

‎ Otti said, “When you talk about supporting President Tinubu, the President and I are very good friends and our friendship predates party politics and current positions; we agree on so many issues, and as it is natural, we know where we disagree. But, when you talk about the economy, what Mr. President is doing has always been my position for a long time,”

Otti recalled his columns at the back of Thisday Newspaper, some years back, especially during the Covid-19, where he made strong case for abolition of fuel subsidy.

‎He said:“So, it requires somebody with courage to remove that subsidy and I am in support of it. We have behaved in an irresponsible manner for a very long time. And, when you have years of irresponsible behaviour, the correction would be tough, difficult, and painful. It is the correction that we are going through now; if we don’t lose faith, we will eventually get it right.

‎“So, talking about supporting the President, it’s a no-brainer; I will continue to support him because it is the same administration,” Gov. Otti declared.

‎Taking a swipe at those already campaigning about 2027, Otti said: “People in 2025 are talking of 2027… you can’t even talk about 2027 because there is no guarantee that you would go beyond 2025.”

Continuing he queried:” Who are you to begin to talk about 2027?”

‎“Today is certain; tomorrow is a promise. Next tomorrow is gambling. Let us talk about today; when tomorrow comes, and we are lucky to be part of it, we can hold the discussion,” the Governor stated, adding that nobody is competent to talk about tomorrow except he or she wants to play God.

Otti commended Senator Kalu for his contributions for the advancement of the state, adding that there is no need to dwell on how things went wrong in the past.

He said his administration “has hit the reset button and started work, without looking back.”

Otti emphasized that he was using the time he had to work for the people and not to fight anybody.

The Governor also recalled how his late mother was a strong supporter of Kalu for the good works he did in road construction when he was Governor, especially in Aba.

“I can assure you, that template is not wrong. You fix the place that generates the revenue, the revenue will come and you use it to fix other places,” he explained.

‎Otti revealed how a man who lives in Aba donated N200 Million as support to the State Government because of his administration’s infrastructural transformation in the commercial city.

Speaking further, the Governor stated that even at night, businesses are going on in Aba, unlike before.

“There is no sleep in Aba now. People don’t go to bed. So, when I was talking about the velocity of money during my campaign, people thought it was a joke. Once people are awake, money is changing hands. And, any time money changes hands, people make money. That’s how the economy works, it’s not rocket science,” Gov. Otti stated.

‎‎Gov. Otti also revealed that he has directed the Commissioner for Works to devise a plan to light up Umuahia to Ohafia, stressing that he does not want the State’s economy to go to sleep by 6pm along that axis.

“So, we want the people there to be awake, we don’t want the economy to go to sleep by 6pm. We want the economy to operate like Lagos and Abuja where people hardly sleep. And, whenever they want to go to bed, they hand over to somebody else”

‎Speaking earlier, Senator Kalu apologized for his absence at the Governor’s second anniversary celebration, explaining that his was in Lagos to honour similar invitation by President Tinubu.

‎The former Governor praised Otti over his achievements especially on road infrastructure, testifying that the road from his Igbere community to Umuahia the state capital is now very motorable.

‎Kalu said:“You’re my friend for life; you are my brother for life. Whether you are running election or not running election, brotherhood is brotherhood… you have done well for our State. Thank you very much…

‎“I want to make it clear to you: you have done well, and the State will continue to grow under your leadership,” Dr. Kalu declared.

‎Speaking further, Sen. Kalu said, “I want to thank your Commissioner for works for the road rehabilitation work done in Igbere. I flew (rode) on that road, it is not the same. That is the truth. It is flying because it is driving and not stopping, and I am really happy with that road.

‎“I know Abians know what is good for them. They are the only people that will determine who leads their State. When the people feel good, you don’t leave your best, you go for your best.”

‎While declaring his support for Governor Otti, Sen. Kalu urged him to support President Tinubu as well, saying that he wants him to be close to the President and not asking him to leave his Party. He wished the Governor and his family well, saying that he would continue to visit him anytime he is in the State

‎Speaking, Sen. Chris Adighije said he was proud to be an Abian and did not make a mistake supporting Governor Otti and would continue to support him.

The APC chieftain said that “it is not about partisan politics but the progress of Abia State”.

While commending President Tinubu’s performance at the National level, he said Governor Otti is doing extremely well for the State.

Police raid church in Enugu, recover human skull, ritual items

Nigeria Police, Enugu Command on Saturday, May 7, 2025, uncovered a suspected ritual site linked to Prophet Chinedu Ezedike, the cleric allegedly involved in the gruesome murder of four siblings in Igbo-Eze South local government area.

The discovery was made during the weekend raid, led by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Igbo-Eze South and supported by other security agencies.

The team stormed an uncompleted church building, named Synagogue, located at Abile Hill, Isi-Agu, Ibagwa-Aka, where a human skull and a ritual staff were recovered.

The structure, owned by Prophet Ezedike, is one of several properties under investigation,following public outrage over the recent killing of four children in the community.

The incident had earlier prompted the state government to demolish the primary site of the alleged crime.

Chairman of Igbo-Eze South LGA, Barr. Ferdinand Ukwueze, who was part of the operation, confirmed the latest discovery in a Facebook post yesterday.

“Two days ago, while combing locations reasonably suspected to be camps for criminal activities, we visited a site at Abile Hill, Isi-Agu, Ibagwa-Aka.

“To our dismay, a human skull and ritual staff were discovered at the so-called synagogue under construction by Prophet Chinedu Ezedike,” he wrote.

He noted that the items were handed over to the police for further investigation.

“This discovery lends more credence to the disturbing allegations surrounding Ezedike. We will continue to expose hidden enclaves of criminality until our communities are safe.”

Ukwueze praised the coordinated efforts of the Nigeria Police, Department of State Services (DSS), the military, local Neighbourhood Watch operatives, Forest Guards, and vigilant members of the public for their continued support.

“Under the administration of His Excellency, Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, there will be no hiding place for criminals. We are building a just society where our people can pursue their dreams without fear of violence or intimidation,” he said.

June 12 without recognition of Humphrey Nwosu is double standard – Igbo group

…Urges Tinubu to name National Edifice after him

A pro-Igbo pressure group, Ndi Igbo Intellectual & Cultural Development Organization (NIDO), has described as double standard Nigeria’s continued celebration of June 12 as Democracy Day without giving due recognition to Professor Humphrey Nwosu, the former Chairman of the National Electoral Commission (NEC), who conducted the 1993 presidential election widely regarded as the freest and fairest in Nigeria’s history.

In a statement released yesterday and signed by its Director of Communications and Information, Dr. Christian Afulike, NIDO decried what it called “a grave injustice” to honour Chief Moshood Abiola, the presumed winner of the June 12 election, while ignoring the contributions of the man who midwifed the credible process.

The group called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to urgently correct this injustice by naming a national monument or edifice after Professor Nwosu as a lasting tribute to his invaluable role in advancing Nigeria’s democratic journey.

“It reeks of double standards to celebrate the outcome of the June 12, 1993 election while pretending to forget the umpire who courageously and meticulously supervised the process,” the statement said.

NIDO described the lack of recognition for Nwosu as a major factor in the declining credibility of Nigeria’s electoral system. The group lamented that successive governments have failed to honour the legacy of the man who introduced the Option A4 voting system, which formed the basis of the 1993 electoral success.

“Late Prof. Humphrey Nwosu’s indelible contributions to Nigeria’s electoral process seem to have been deliberately forgotten by a nation that often celebrates mediocrity. This failure to honour him is part of the reason for the poor performance of subsequent electoral umpires and the worsening credibility of our elections,” NIDO stated.

The group emphasized that recognising Professor Nwosu would serve not only as an act of justice but also as motivation for present and future electoral officials to act with courage and integrity.

“We therefore call on President Tinubu to name a befitting national democratic institution or monument after Prof. Nwosu. This gesture would inspire electoral integrity and strengthen our democracy beyond mere electoral reforms.”

NIDO further urged the Anambra State Government, Nwosu’s home state, to take similar steps by naming a major state facility after him.

The statement, titled “Erasing the Double Standard of the Nigerian Government”, acknowledged the symbolic milestone of 24 years of unbroken democracy in Nigeria. It praised the recognition given by former President Muhammadu Buhari, who officially declared June 12 as Democracy Day in 2018 in honour of Abiola’s struggle.

However, NIDO argued that a complete historical account must include all the key players, particularly Professor Nwosu, who made the success of that election possible.

“It is disingenuous to honour only the winner and victims of the annulment while ignoring the person who conducted what is still acknowledged as the most credible election in Nigeria. This is a disservice to history, democracy, and justice.”

As Nigeria marks Democracy Day on June 12, NIDO called for sober reflection on both the gains and failures of Nigeria’s democratic experiment. It urged the government to fix the electoral process to restore public confidence and truly honour those who sacrificed for democratic governance.

SERAP to Tinubu: Stop Wike from shutting 34 embassies over unpaid ground rents

Wike

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project, SERAP, has called on President Bola Tinubu to urgently intervene and stop the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Nyesom Wike, from shutting down 34 foreign embassies in Abuja over unpaid ground rents.

In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter) yesterday, the rights group warned that such an action would constitute a breach of international law and violate long-standing diplomatic protocols.

“President Tinubu should urgently caution and direct the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, to immediately withdraw the threat to close down 34 embassies in Abuja,” SERAP stated.

The group cited Article 22 of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, which guarantees the inviolability of diplomatic missions.

According to SERAP, any attempt to forcibly shut down or repossess embassy properties would be illegal under international law.

“Article 22, paragraph 1, of the Vienna Convention states that ‘[t]he premises of the mission shall be inviolable,’” the group noted, adding that “Paragraph 3 further affirms that ‘the premises of the mission, their furnishings and other property thereon and the means of transport of the mission shall be immune from search, requisition, attachment or execution.’”

Crisis in Labour Party instigated by Tinubu govt – Peter Obi

Peter Obi

Mr Peter Obi has accused President Bola Tinubu’s government of being responsible for the lingering crisis in the Labour Party.

Obi was the erstwhile presidential candidate of the Labour Party in 2023 general election.

The former Anambra state governor made the accusation yesterday while fielding questions on Arise Television’s Morning Show programme.

Obi specifically stated that the leadership crisis in the Labor Party was instigated and sustained by the government of today.

He said: “This is what you get, always, right? This is what you get always in Nigeria, because we now live in a country of propaganda and lies – and they manufacture it.

“The problem we have in Labor Party is problem instigated and sustained by the government of today.

“I don’t need to tell you when you have a party chairman who calls a state governor a dwarf and dwarf thinking. Forget about me, so it’s not weak.

“Okay, I’m weak, but it’s not weak. Is every other person there weak? So we’re not sincere with ourselves.

“You speak the truth and they call you names. And we now live in a country of propaganda and lies. They are trying to put problems everywhere, they want to even put problems in families.”

Governor Uzodimma, others pay final respect to late Margaret Ukeagu

The Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodimma, on Saturday, joined other prominent Nigerians to pay their last respect to Late Elder Margaret Chinyere Ukeagu, at the Township Stadium, Umuahia.

According to a press statement endorsed by Dr. Charles Uzopuo, the Chief Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor of Imo State, Lady (Dr) Chinyere Ekomaru, late Elder Margaret Ukeagu was the beloved mother of Mr. Kenneth Ukeagu, a Federal Commissioner with the Independent National Electoral Commission, (INEC). She was aged 76.

The Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma who was a special guest at the funeral, was ably represented by the State Deputy Governor, Lady Chinyere Ekomaru, who came in company of her husband, Barr. Chukwuma Ekomaru, SAN.

The deputy governor conveyed the prayers and thoughts of the governor and people of Imo state  to the family, while encouraging them to preserve the legacy of their fallen matriarch.

Other guests at the event were; the Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti, the Governor of Enugu State, Barr. Peter Mbah, the Governor of Taraba State, Gov. Agbu Kefas, the Deputy Governor of Ebonyi State, Mrs. Patricia Obila, the Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, Hon. Chike Okafor, among other personalities across the country.

Late Elder Chinyere Margaret Ukeagu was honoured in a befitting burial ceremony that reflected her impactful life.

My company paid N450 billion in taxes in 2024, Dangote tells Tinubu

President of the Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, recently informed President Bola Tinubu that his group of companies paid a whopping N450 billion in taxes to the federal government’s coffers in 2024, thereby making it the highest tax-paying company in Nigeria. With this significant tax payment, Dangote companies are contributing more in taxes than all the country’s banks combined.

Dangote also revealed that, despite paying N450 billion in taxes last year, the group is committed to spending an additional N900 billion on road infrastructure across Nigeria.

The Deep-Sea Port Access Road, he said, is one of several roads built and being developed by the Dangote Group under the federal government’s tax credit scheme.

According to Dangote, the Deep Sea Port Access Road is “one of eight major road projects totalling 500 kilometres, including two in Borno State that will eventually link Nigeria to both Chad and Cameroon.”

He praised President Tinubu’s leadership, describing him as a courageous leader whose administration has revived investor confidence in the private sector.

He also thanked the president for envisioning and implementing the Lekki Deep Sea Port project and assured him of the private sector’s support for expanding infrastructure nationwide.

Dangote then revealed that the road leading to the state-of-the-art Dangote Petroleum Refinery & Petrochemicals will be named Bola Ahmed Tinubu Road in honour of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

“The Dangote refinery complex is, in many ways, your brainchild,” Dangote told the president. Mr President, let me just say one thing — the main road leading into our refinery is now to be known as Bola Ahmed Tinubu Road.”

Following the announcement, President Tinubu rose to shake hands with Dangote in a moment that drew applause from the dignitaries in attendance.

Ex-President Jonathan pushes for Fubara’s return as Tinubu prepares to address Nigerians

Former President Goodluck Jonathan is among high-profile Nigerians quietly lobbying for the reinstatement of suspended Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, with mounting expectations that a resolution could be reached before June 12, Nigeria’s Democracy Day.

It is understood that Jonathan has already engaged President Bola Tinubu in a lengthy telephone conversation, advocating for Fubara’s return “on or before June 12 in the spirit of Democracy Day.”

Governor Fubara was suspended on March 18 following a controversial presidential order. The decision, widely described as unconstitutional, has drawn sharp criticism from legal experts and political observers who argue that “there is no part of the Constitution which empowers the president to suspend/remove an elected governor,” even in the event of emergency rule.

Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu and state lawmakers were suspended for six months following heightened tension between the governor and his predecessor Nyesom Wike.

Both have shown signs towards reconciliation and have shifted their stance considerably.

Though it was initially speculated that Tinubu might reinstate Fubara on May 29—his second anniversary in office—those hopes faded when the day passed without action. The focus has now shifted to June 12, when Nigeria marks 26 years of uninterrupted democratic governance.

By June 18, it will be exactly three months since Ibas assumed control of Rivers State as sole administrator. The six-month suspension timeline will lapse by September 18.

Signs of reconciliation first emerged in April when Fubara flew to the United Kingdom via Germany to meet President Tinubu in London. The private meeting, which lasted over three hours, reportedly centred on restoring peace to Rivers State and reinstating suspended democratic institutions.

Sources say the London meeting allowed Tinubu to “observe the chemistry of the suspended governor at close range.”

A follow-up meeting between both leaders took place last Tuesday in Lagos, further raising hopes of reconciliation. A photo of the encounter, which circulated widely online, showed the two in a cordial pose, interpreted by many as a signal that the crisis may soon be resolved.

Just days earlier, Fubara had urged his supporters to remain calm, saying they should “thank Mr. President for his timely intervention to salvage the situation…”

The governor’s outreach, according to insiders, was partly aimed at reaffirming his loyalty to President Tinubu amid speculation that he might align with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar ahead of the 2027 elections. Tinubu, however, is believed to see strategic value in Fubara’s support and is working to protect him from being washed up politically.

One major step in that direction was Tinubu’s presentation of the state’s N1.4 trillion budget to the National Assembly, effectively shielding the governor from impeachment by pro-Wike lawmakers.

Observers say this move eliminated one of the primary flashpoints in the crisis.

Behind the scenes, other influential figures are said to be weighing in. “That is besides the concern expressed by two other former presidents,” a source disclosed, referring to Jonathan’s reported efforts.

According to the same source, Fubara’s visits to Tinubu were prompted by “secret instructions by these forces,” and “by the president’s body language, the governor may be returned sooner than the six months earlier announced by the president.”

Defection: PDP moves to flush out disloyal members

The Peoples Democratic Party is set to overhaul its South-South zonal and state structures in a sweeping move aimed at flushing out disloyal members and forestalling further defections.

A member of the PDP’s National Working Committee, who spoke to newsmen on condition of anonymity, said the planned restructuring was part of renewed efforts to reposition the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.

According to the source, the party is “clearly displeased” with the spate of defections in recent weeks and is ready to take firm action.

“This will not be business as usual. When the Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, and former governor, Ifeanyi Okowa, left, the NWC met and resolved to challenge their defection in court. That process is ongoing. As for Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, who defected on Saturday, the party will act after the Sallah break,” the source said.

“These defections damage the party’s internal structure because most of these leaders have their loyalists occupying key positions at state and zonal levels. The party must now clean the house. We will overhaul the South-South leadership to ensure only committed members remain in charge. No more space for political opportunists who will jump ship at the slightest discomfort.”

The PDP has faced internal turbulence since the 2023 general elections.

With no clear resolution in sight, the party has continued to lose high-profile members to the ruling All Progressives Congress.

On April 23, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State, his predecessor, Ifeanyi Okowa, and other key party leaders dumped the party.

After months of behind-the-scenes talks with APC leaders, Governor Eno and several officials also formally defected last weekend.

The wave of defections has dealt a major blow to the party’s image and weakened its electoral base ahead of the 2027 polls.

Reacting to Eno’s defection, the PDP Deputy National Youth Leader, Timothy Osadolor, urged disloyal members planning to jump ship to do so quickly, so loyalists could focus on rebuilding the party.

“No political party, whether big or small, will be happy to lose assets, especially priced assets like a sitting governor from a critical state such as Akwa Ibom. So yes, the PDP received the news with mixed feelings,” Osadolor said.

“But at this stage in our national life, what Nigeria needs are sincere patriots committed to nation-building, not political merchants chasing personal gains. It is sad that the men we once looked up to as beacons of integrity have turned out to be nothing but overhyped figures, big men in oversized shoes and garments who cannot meet the basic standards of integrity.”

Osadolor criticised Eno, a cleric, for prioritising political survival over public welfare.

“The truth is, given his background, many had hoped his worldview on governance would be shaped by compassion, service, and truth. But it appears the welfare of Nigerians is not his concern. His focus, clearly, is securing a second term,” he said.

The PDP deputy national youth leader, however, expressed optimism that the defections would make it easier for Nigerians to reject the APC in 2027.

“In an interview earlier this year, I said those looking for transport fare to leave should hurry up. And if they need help, they can come to Wadata Plaza, we’ll be glad to escort them out. Let them go quickly so the party can heal and rebuild.

“It’s better they leave now than linger as saboteurs. Those of us who truly believe in this party are ready to reposition it. All hope is not lost.”

Tinubu: Villa quiet as critic Bakare, suspended Fubara, ‘defecting’ Adeleke, firebrand Soyinka, others troop to Bourdillion

President Bola Tinubu’s Bourdillion, Ikoyi, Lagos home has turned into Mecca of sort as high profile visitors trooped to his personal residence.

The president is in Lagos for Sallah after departing Abuja more than one week ago.

Interestingly, some of the visitors are Tinubu’s fierce critics like Pastor Tunde Bakare, General Overseer of the Citadel Global Community Church.

Bakare, on Wednesday, visited Tinubu at the residence in Lagos.

The outspoken Pastor had recently said that Nigeria was spiraling into tyranny and suffering from a brazen abuse of power under Tinubu.

Speaking during his State of the Nation Address to mark Easter celebrations, Bakare took a swipe at the National Assembly, condemning what he described as the collapse of the legislature, which he called a “bastion of democracy”, but now failing under the president’s leadership.

He also frowned at the state of emergency declared in Rivers State by Tinubu, saying it was a clear example of what he described as a “theatre of the absurd”.

He slammed both the president’s actions and the National Assembly, which he accused of endorsing the measure, declaring that the national legislative body has become the “most spineless” in Nigeria’s history, allowing for Tinubu’s actions to go unchecked. “Under your watch, Mr. President, the legislature has become a mere rubber stamp, endorsing every action you take without scrutiny,” Bakare said.

As controversy trails the cleric’s visit to Tinubu, it’s not yet clear whether the man of God has found ‘salvation’ in Tinubu’s temple.

Apart from Bakare, the opposition elements in the country currently in the political Intensive Care Unit, (ICU), battling for survival appear to have resigned to fate to join the band wagon. First it was the suspended governor of Rivers State, Sir Sim Fubara, who ‘sneaked’ into Bourdillion on Tuesday, perhaps for confession and restitution. His visit came amidst the wave of defections from the opposition parties to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Fubara’s visit to the president is coming on the heels of his recent address to his loyalists where he reportedly told them to thank Tinubu, stating that in no distant time he will be recalled from suspension.

Another indication that the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP) may soon become an empty shell is the visit of the Adelekes from the president’s home state of Osun.

Governor Ademola Adeleke, his senior brother, Deji, and the music icon, David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, visited the president on Tuesday.

The reason for the visit is still kept secret by both parties but one thing that is in the public space is that in few months to come, the governor will be seeking re-election against the candidate of Tinubu’s party..

The president also met with the Nobel Laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka, at the commissioning of the coastal road. Soyinka is a known critic of past presidents except Tinubu who is said to be his friend.

The social critic has been attacked in some quarters for keeping quiet in the face of current economic hardship in the country. The president’s Lagos home has also hosted the creme de la creme in the society, including billionaire Bill Gates who was conferred with a national honour, as well as members of the political class and captains of industry. While Bourdillion is bubbling with activities with the attendant blockade of roads, the Presidential Villa Abuja is quiet as Vice President Kashim Shettima is also engaged in activities that take him out of the capital city.

Ireland Deports 35 Nigerians for allegedly breaching Immigration Laws

Ireland has deported 35 Nigerian nationals for breaching immigration laws, according to a statement from the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB), which oversaw the operation.

Among those deported were five children and nine women, with officials clarifying that the children were part of family groups.

All individuals were removed from the country on a chartered flight that departed Dublin Airport on the night of Wednesday, June 4, 2025, bound for Nigeria.

According to Irish Legal News, the operation marked the third charter deportation flight organised by Ireland this year and the first such flight to an African destination in 2025.

Ireland began using chartered flights for deportations in February.

Speaking on this development, the Justice Minister, Jim O’Callaghan emphasised the importance of enforcing immigration laws.

“Ireland has a rules-based immigration system. It is important that those rules are robust and enforced. The return of people whose applications have been refused and deportation orders have been issued is the foundation of any modern rules-based immigration process,” O’Callaghan said.

He added that individuals seeking to live in Ireland must follow legal migration pathways.

“If a person’s application for international protection is refused and they are ordered to leave the State, they must do so,” he said.

O’Callaghan noted that this was the third such operation conducted this year, adding that it “sends a clear message” about the consequences of remaining in Ireland without legal permission.

He reiterated the government’s commitment to upholding the integrity of its immigration system.

The flight reportedly experienced an unscheduled stop due to a medical emergency onboard.

O’Callaghan said the issue was resolved and the plane continued its journey, with all 35 deportees arriving safely in Nigeria on Thursday morning.

Ngor Okpala APC leaders commend Kaduru over consistent support

 …As he solicits support for Uzodimma, doles out fund to party

Leaders of the All Progressives Congress, APC, in Ngor Okpala local government area, Imo State, have commended Dr Chijioke Kaduru, for his consistent support to the party at all levels, particularly, the local government and ward levels, which has contributed to the growth and progress of the party in the area.

The visibly happy leaders poured the encomiums on him during a meeting of Ngor Okpala APC at the weekend, at the Local Government Headquarters, Umuneke, Ngor.

Chairperson of Ngor Okpala LGA, Hon Chika Ibekwe, who opened the floodgate of the commendations,  praised Dr Kaduru for always being there for the party at all times and seasons, maintaining that his steadfast support has tremendously helped the growth of the party in the area, describing him  as a true party man.

The Ngor Okpala LGA boss noted that a true party man always stands with his party and supports it, whether there is something to gain or not, pointing out that Dr Kaduru has always exhibited this rare trait right from the time he joined the party over a decade ago.

Also praising Dr Kaduru’s unwavering commitment, dedication and passion for the party and its members, the Commissioner representing Owerri Zone in the Imo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission, ISOPADEC, Chief Val Okere, popularly known as Amadioha Ngor Okpala, described him as one of the pillars of the party in the council, noting that his remarkable contributions have helped position the party as the party of choice in his Obiangwu Ward ten, Onyeaghanwanneya Court Area, and Ngor Okpala as a whole.

Similarly, the LGA chairman of Ngor Okpala APC, Engr Jude Ukaegbu, the State Assistant Youth Leader of APC, Comrade Kingsley Onyekachi, among others, equally lauded Dr Kaduru, saying his contributions financially, morally, and materially, has helped in boosting grassroots acceptance, support and membership of the party.

They cited his recent mass empowerment that cuts across all communities and wards, as one of such impactful efforts from him that has tremendously positively impacted the image and fortune of the party in the area, urging him to continue in his good works for the party.

In his own speech, Dr Kaduru, who is the chief convener of Nkwa Chikwere Movement,

as well as the founder of Nkwa Chikwere Foundation, urged leaders and members of the party in Ngor Okpala local government area, to remain steadfast, committed and continue to support the party and Governor Hope Uzodinma in the state.

Dr Kaduru who was represented at the meeting by the co-convener of Nkwa Chikwere Movement, Hon Chukwuma Anuforo, assured of his unwavering commitment to ensuring that APC becomes the party to beat in the council.

He reaffirmed his support for Governor Uzodimma as the supreme leader of the party in Imo State, adding that he has  done tremendously well for the state, as signposted by his unprecedented transformation of the state infrastructural landscape.

He said Governor Uzodimma’s sterling performance was the reason the leaders of the party in Imo were solidly supporting him, and hs government in their relentless efforts to make the state the envy of its peers across the country.

Kaduru further hinted that the essence of the leadership meeting was to brainstorm, and collectively map out strategies, whose implementation would further help in cementing the party’s grip on the councils grassroots politics ahead of the next election cycle.

While giving strong assurance of his readiness and preparedness to contribute his own quota towards the attainment of the goals that would be set at the meeting, he urged all APC faithful to keep doing all within their powers to ensure that the   party continues to be the number one in the area, assuring them that there’s so much to be gained from the party.

The Ngor Okpala-born medical expert, who has helped transform public health sector in several African countries, called on those who left the party in the past to come back, insisting that APC remains most formidable political party in Nigeria, and the  party to beat in the country.

In keeping with his culture of regular support to the party, Dr Kaduru doled out substantial amount to the eleven wards in the local government area, to help them in the running of the party, just as he made donation to support the hosting of the leadership meeting.

Take-It-Back Movement plans protest as Nigeria marks Democracy Day on

TAKE-It-Back Movement, a good governance advocacy group, led by activist Omoyele Sowore, has vowed to hold a national protest on June 12, in response to ongoing killings and undemocratic actions by those in power.

The group’s National Coordinator, Juwon Sanyaolu, announced this in a statement on Tuesday June 3.

He said the movement “rejects the hollow ceremonies and official pageantry” typically associated with the Democracy Day.

“This June 12, we march not just for ourselves, but for the slain in Benue, the displaced in Plateau, the silenced in detention, and the starving masses abandoned by the corrupt elite” Sanyaolu said.

The group’s leader appealed to all Nigerians to stand up against “undemocratic forces in power.”

“We will not participate in the hypocrisy of celebrating freedom where none exists. Instead, we declare this day a National Day of Resistance, a day to stand against tyranny and bad governance.

“Freedom of speech is under attack. The state has turned on its citizens with an unrelenting campaign of intimidation and censorship,” the group stated..

It expressed sadness that democracy, hard-won through struggle, sweat, and blood of patriots, had been “dismantled by the same forces that once vowed to bring change.”

“Journalists are harassed. Activists are detained. Citizens are arrested for social media posts. Through weaponisation of the Cybercrime Act, government agents now stalk the digital footprints of dissenters, silencing legitimate criticism and criminalising free expression.

“And while the voices in the streets are silenced, the cries from rural communities echo unheard. In Plateau, Benue, Southern Kaduna, and across the Middle Belt, mass killings continue with terrifying frequency. Whole communities are decimated. Lives are snuffed out without consequences.”

The group also decried the number of internally displaced persons in the country, while perpetrators roam free, noting that the bloodletting had become a routine, while the state remains complicit through its inaction, negligence, or outright denial.

The ICIR reported in August 2024, many Nigerians trooped to the streets to protest poor governance and economic hardships occasioned by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s reforms.

The protests were marred with violence, largely caused by security operatives in places like Lagos and Abuja, where protesters were subjected to tear gas and harassment.

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