The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project has called on the Central Bank of Nigeria to immediately disclose whether it has commenced the direct disbursement of allocations to the 774 local government areas in Nigeria, following the Supreme Court’s landmark judgment nullifying state governors’ control over LGA funds.

In a letter dated 10 May 2025 and obtained by our correspondent, addressed to the CBN Governor, Mr Olayemi Cardoso, and signed by SERAP’s Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare, the group also demanded that the bank “widely publish the amounts, if any, so far sent directly to each of the local governments” and provide a detailed explanation of any payments already made—particularly to LGAs in Rivers State.

The group stated: “We are writing to request you to use your good offices and leadership position to immediately disclose whether the CBN has commenced the direct disbursement of allocations to the 774 local government councils in Nigeria from the Federation Accounts with the CBN, and to widely publish the amounts, if any, so far sent to each of the local governments.”

This request follows a Supreme Court judgment declaring the practice by governors and the FCT Minister of retaining and disbursing LGA allocations unconstitutional and unlawful.

The court ruled that no governor or agency has the authority to interfere with allocations meant for LGAs from the Federation Account.

Citing this judgment, SERAP argued: “Local government councils are entitled to a direct payment from the Federation Account of the amount standing to their credit in the said Federation Account. States should not be collecting, receiving, spending or tampering with the local government council funds from the Federation Account meant for the benefit of the councils.”

The advocacy group expressed concern that despite the ruling, many state governors have continued to “starve local governments of funds and put them in peril,” thereby undermining their autonomy and capacity to function as the third tier of government.

In the letter, the group warned that if the CBN fails to act within seven days, it would take legal action.

“If we have not heard from you by then, the Incorporated Trustees of SERAP shall take all appropriate legal actions to compel you and the CBN to comply with our request in the public interest,” the letter stated.

SERAP referenced a past revelation by former President Muhammadu Buhari, who in December 2022 described how governors allegedly short-changed LGA chairmen.

“If the money from the Federation Account to the state is about N100 million, N50 million will be sent to the chairman, but he will sign that he received N100 million. The chairman will pocket the balance and share it with whoever he wants to share it with,” Buhari had said.

The organisation argued that the CBN has a constitutional and statutory obligation to protect the financial interests of all tiers of government.

The Supreme Court of Nigeria will hold a valedictory court session on Wednesday, May 14, to honour the late Justice Emmanuel Ogwuegbu, a former Justice of the court who passed away in October last year.

The session is scheduled to take place at 2 pm in the main courtroom of the Supreme Court.

A statement issued on Sunday by the Director of Information and Public Relations of the apex Court, Dr Festus Akande, revealed that the late judicial icon died peacefully in his sleep on October 28, 2024, at the age of 91.

Born on March 16, 1933, in Amainyi, Ihitte-Uboma Local Government Area of Imo State, Justice Ogwuegbu rose from a humble background to become a towering figure in the legal profession.

He was appointed a judge of the High Court of Imo State in November 1976, serving as Administrative Judge of the Owerri Judicial Division from 1976 to 1979. He later served in the same capacity in the Aba Judicial Division in 1980.

Elevated to the Court of Appeal in September 1987, Justice Ogwuegbu served in the Ibadan and Lagos Divisions before his appointment as a Justice of the Supreme Court of Nigeria in April 1992.

In recognition of his outstanding contributions to the judiciary, he was seconded by the Federal Government to serve on the Supreme Court bench of The Gambia from December 1999 to 2002.

He returned to Nigeria to continue his meritorious service at the Supreme Court until his retirement on 16 March 2003.

The valedictory session will be presided over by the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun.

Tributes will be paid to the late Justice Ogwuegbu by the Chief Justice and other key stakeholders in the nation’s justice sector.

The session will also be attended by the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi.

A philanthropist and a member of Imo Rural Road Maintenance Agency(IRROMA), Chief Nnaomadiebube Paschal Ezikeojiaku, has stated that he would not relent in the counseling and guiding of his newly wedded daughter, Chinaza Norah Ezemezie, and her husband, mr. Stanley Ugochukwu Ezemezie, in their new home so as to encourage them to tackle some challenges associated with marriage.

Ezikeojiaku, also known as Ogbuonyeisiogu of Ihitenansa, made this known to some newsmen at his residence, Umuguma, while chatting with them about their union(couple).

He added that the importance of parental advice in the lives of the young couple as his daughter and her husband can not be over-emphasized, noting that marriage should not be seen as an easy thing that can easily be enticed to jump into by anyone.

He said: ” marriage is something that requires effective guidance from those who will be telling you the intricacies involved in life and marriage to make it work well”.

Ezikeojiaku used same avenue to wish the newly wedded long life, prosperity, peaceful living and bearing of God- fearing and responsible children that would be eager to look after their parents in future.

Expressing further, he appealed to the state government headed by the governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma, to come to the rescue of prolonged impassable Umuguma road, stressing that he has been championing the call for its construction at different fora because of the economic importance attached to such a road, recounting that

its(road) importance could be traced to the fact that it served as the first road used by the whiteman, Douglas, to access Government House which incidentally was named after him as Douglas House,being the then state administrator.

Ogbuonyeisiogu also added that on the ground of this scenario, the Umuguma road that connected control junction should be effectively handled by the state government.

The long-term Umuguma resident, reiterated that Umuguma road had previously been awarded by the present performing governor, Sen. Hope Uzodimma, to a particular contractor, but it was suddenly abandoned half way.

He described the governor as a very good personality known for building quality roads in Imo state since the commencement of his administration, using a reputable German Construction Company like Crane- Burg in their execution.

He therefore appealed to Sen. Hope Uzodimma to call the contractor back to the site(Umuguma road) for continuity.

He described Umuguma road as very bad, adding that as a member of IRROMA, he would liaise with his team to do some repairs on the road as a maintenance agency.

Ezikeojiaku used same medium to describe Umuguma community as very peaceful and accommodating, leading to the massive increase in her residential population compared to the experience few years ago. He opined that the overt accommodating spirit of Umuguma community has created a room for foreigners to invest hugely there, calling for its encouragement via provision of good roads to boost smooth economic activities.

By Emma Ogbuehi…

The family of former Commissioner of Finance in old Imo State and a member of the Federal House of Representatives, Chris Asoluka, has officially announced his death and programme of events leading to his burial. Asoluka, fondly called Okwuruoha was also a former President of Igbo think tank Aka Ikenga and aspirant to Ohanaeze Ndigbo presidency. Asoluka died nine days after his 70th birthday.

The family of Asoluka in Ihiagwa, Owerri-West LGA of Imo State, has announced his death early on Saturday. His son, Jamachi Chris-Asoluka, announced this in a statement.

Jamachi said: “With deep sorrow, but grateful hearts, we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin, in-law, friend, and patriarch, Dr. Chris Asoluka (Okwuruoha).

“Surrounded by love and held in grace, daddy transitioned from this world just before midnight on Friday May 9th 2025 with the calm dignity that defined his life. A man of unwavering principles, strength, generosity, rare intellect, and profound wisdom, he lived a life rooted in service, compassion, and an unshakable commitment to family, community, and country.

“Though our hearts sag heavy, we take comfort in the fullness of his legacy — the values he instilled, the lives he touched, and the unmatched example he set. He was our anchor, our counsellor, our lifetime inspiration. His earthly absence is profound, but his spirit remains — in every lesson, every memory, every story told, and every life shaped by his presence.

“We are thankful for the glorious gift of his life and for the grace with which he completed his earthly journey. As we begin this season of remembrance, thanksgiving, and celebration, we ask for your prayers, support, and love as we honour a man who meant so much to so many.”

Jamachi also disclosed that the service of songs and night of tributes will be held for the late Asoluka in Lagos on July 17 to herald other funeral activities lined up until his obsequies on July 24 at Ihiagwa, Imo State.

The late Dr Asoluka was a polymath with two Bachelor’s degrees in Political Science and Law (Universities of Ibadan and London), multiple Masters degrees in International Economic Relations (University of Lagos), Shipping Economics/Finance and International Trade (CASS Business School) and a Ph.D. degree in Policy Analysis (University of Ibadan).

He was a respected management, development, and legislative strategy consultant (FIMC), who has played very important roles in various sectors of the Nigerian economy and politics.

He was the Executive Vice Chairman/CEO, Nipal Consulting Network, a multidisciplinary firm, which has successfully handled significant assignments for clients, including Federal and State Governments/Agencies, National Assemblies/States’ legislative Assemblies and multilateral/non-governmental institutions within and outside Nigeria, among numerous other feats.

A civic organisation, the Citizens’ Action for Democratic Restoration (CADR), has called for a review of the ongoing emergency rule in Rivers State, encouraging a return to constitutional processes and broader stakeholder engagement to resolve the political situation.

In a statement issued on Saturday in Port Harcourt, CADR’s National President, Dr Maryleen Ebere Okoro, expressed concern over recent developments in the state following the federal government’s appointment of Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retired) as administrator.

Dr Okoro acknowledged that the emergency intervention may have been intended to ensure stability but urged the federal government to consider alternative, inclusive conflict-resolution approaches that respect democratic institutions.

“While the intervention may have been motivated by a desire to restore peace, it is essential to ensure that it does not override constitutional provisions or alienate key stakeholders,” she said.

CADR highlighted a number of developments that have raised public concern, including the suspension of elected officials, the appointment of interim administrators, and restrictions on civil protests. The group noted that peaceful demonstrations, particularly those led by women, reflect the public’s desire for dialogue and constitutional order.

“It is important that all citizens, including peaceful protesters, are allowed to express their views without fear. A secure society is one where rights are protected, even during difficult transitions,” Dr Okoro stated.

She called on President Bola Tinubu to open dialogue with a broad coalition of stakeholders including traditional rulers, civil society organisations, and political leaders to chart a path toward stability.

“National unity is best preserved through inclusion, consultation, and adherence to legal processes. We believe the people of Rivers State are capable of resolving their internal challenges through a democratic framework,” she added.

The group concluded by recommending that the emergency measures be reassessed in favour of a peacebuilding strategy anchored on constitutional governance.

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has raised concerns over the high level of institutional weaknesses, bureaucratic inefficiencies, and endemic grand corruption in Nigeria, which it claims continue to undermine governance at all levels. The union expressed its concerns during the 23rd National Delegates Conference of ASUU held at the University of Benin main campus in Ugbowo, Benin City, where a new leadership for the union is expected to emerge.

The National President of ASUU, Prof. Emmanuel Osodeke, lamented the lack of inclusiveness, transparency, and accountability in governance. He also highlighted worsening existential conditions resulting from the government’s adoption of neoliberal economic policies, which he claimed are breeding apathy, cynicism, self-help, criminality, and mass migration (japa) among the youth.

Osodeke stated that despite Nigeria’s vast oil reserves, agricultural potential, and energetic youth population, the nation still battles high unemployment, inflation, a depreciating currency, and rising poverty rates.

“With its vast oil reserves, agricultural potentials, and energetic young population, the country should be a leader in global development. Instead, it wrestles with high unemployment, inflation, a depreciating currency, and rising poverty rates,” Osodeke remarked. He criticized the government’s policies for stifling the informal economy, which sustains millions but receives little attention in national policy. When policies are made, they tend to hinder growth and discourage patriotic operators in informal sectors who are struggling to survive amid multiple taxes, energy costs, and communication charges. Osodeke acknowledged that attempts at economic diversification, particularly in technology and agriculture, show promise. However, he noted that these initiatives require bold, long-term commitment and substantial infrastructure development.

He questioned the sincerity of government reforms, describing the ongoing brain drain—with professionals and young graduates seeking better opportunities abroad—as an indictment of the state of national affairs and evidence of ill-informed and inappropriate reform policies.

“The massive brain drain, as professionals and young graduates seek better opportunities abroad, is a direct indictment of the state of national affairs and the unmitigated failure of the ill-informed and inappropriate reforms,” he added. The ASUU President also expressed concern over worsening insecurity across the country. He emphasized that no region in Nigeria is immune to these crises, calling for urgent and effective interventions.

Also speaking at the event, Professor Atahiru Jega, former Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and former President of ASUU, stressed that education is a critical institution for nation-building.

Air Peace has successfully carried out a humanitarian mission to repatriate 78 Nigerian women trafficked to Côte d’Ivoire under false pretences of employment.

The airline deployed a Boeing 737 aircraft (registration 5N-BQV) which departed Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, on Saturday and landed at Félix-Houphouët-Boigny International Airport, Abidjan, before returning with the victims on the same day entirely free of charge.

In a statement issued on Sunday, Air Peace Chairman, Allen Onyema, underscored the importance of restoring the dignity of the rescued women.

“These women have endured unimaginable hardship. They deserve not just to be brought home, but to be treated with care and respect,” he said.

Onyema announced that the women would receive comprehensive medical care, free of charge, at Duchess Hospital.

“Air Peace will cover all expenses not just testing, but any treatment required,” he added.

Highlighting the emotional resonance of the operation, Onyema noted that the women expressed joy and a renewed sense of belonging during the flight. “This is about making them feel human again. They were dehumanised abroad. Now they are going to see that their country values them. That’s the message we want to send,” he stated.

He also acknowledged the efforts of social media activist VeryDarkMan, whose advocacy helped bring the women’s plight to national attention, and urged Nigerians to remain vigilant against human trafficking networks.

At the reception in Lagos, the Director-General of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons, Binta Bello, commended the collaboration that made the rescue possible and reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to combatting human trafficking.

“This is a proud moment for Nigeria. We welcome these women home with open arms and a commitment to help them rebuild their lives. Some traffickers have already been arrested and will face justice. Let this be a warning: Nigeria will never tolerate this crime,” she said.

Bello also thanked the Nigerian Embassy in Côte d’Ivoire and the Nigerian community there for their support. Chargée d’Affaires, Paul Obi, and community leader Michael Onwuchelu coordinated documentation and logistics on the ground.

Obi remarked, “These young women were lured with false hopes and ended up in dire conditions. Bringing them home has restored, not just their freedom, but their sense of humanity.”

He added, “This mission reflects the spirit of unity and compassion that defines us as Nigerians. We thank Dr. Onyema for not turning his back on our people.”

An Air Peace aircraft was grounded after colliding with an antelope while taxiing on the runway of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja.

The incident, which decimated the animal, resulted in the aircraft being marked Aircraft on Ground (AOG), causing disruptions to scheduled flights.

Confirming the incident, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), through its Director of Public Affairs & Consumer Protection, Mr. Michael Achimugu, stated on X (formerly Twitter) that such unforeseen occurrences are part of the challenges that lead to flight disruptions.

Achimugu explained:

“Monitoring reports yesterday indicated that an Air Peace aircraft ran into a large antelope, decimating the animal and leaving the aircraft on ground. As a result, flights meant to be operated by this aircraft would naturally be disrupted, even though engineers are on the ground to assess and fix the plane. Passengers waiting would naturally be infuriated.”

He added that while the incident was beyond the airline’s control, Air Peace was still obligated to inform passengers, provide refunds, and extend necessary care, stressing that the NCAA would not hesitate to sanction the airline if it fails in its responsibilities.

Meanwhile, a source close to the airline, while speaking to newsmen, mentioned that the collision occurred during landing and that aviation procedures were swiftly followed to inspect and repair the aircraft.

“It happened upon landing. As an aviation procedure, the aircraft has been checked and fixed. It was not a big issue,” the source stated.

The NCAA has assured passengers of safety measures at the airport and promised to investigate the runway intrusion to prevent future occurrences.

A 32-year-old fashion designer identified as Mrs Sarah David and her three-month-old daughter were reportedly electrocuted in Benin City, Edo State.

The incident happened on Tuesday, May 7, 2025 around the Oregbeni area of the Benin-Agbor road.

It was gathered that the woman had the baby on her back when the unfortunate incident happened. It was learnt that the woman was walking through a flooded road in the area, after a heavy downpour, when she stepped on a live electric cable that fell from one of the electricity poles.

An eyewitness account had it that one of the children of the deceased was so lucky as a young man who was also walking alongside took the child and passed through a different direction. According to him, the young woman who wrapped her newborn baby on her back was electrocuted.

“She and her baby were electrocuted while going home. She passed through one of the flooded roads around the Oregbeni axis of the Benin-Agbor highways in Benin City when she stepped on a live electric cable that fell from one of the electricity poles in the area. After the incident, some residents in the area called on the authorities of the Benin Electricity Distribution company, (BEDC), to interrupt electricity supply to the area before the corpses of the woman and her baby were removed from the flooded area.

‘The corpses were removed by some residents assisted by some police officers from the Oregbeni Police Division.

“She was, however, lucky that the second child did not die along with her, as a young man who was walking with them while they were trying to walk through the erosion helped to carry the little child from her.

” If not, the three of them would have been electrocuted. The young man took the child and passed through another direction”, he said.

Speaking of the incident, the husband of the deceased, Mr Samuel Ibom, described his wife as the breadwinner of the family. Ibom said his wife, who hailed from Ebonyi State, was a fashion designer before the unfortunate incident.

He said he had just gotten a job a few days before the incident.

He, however, appealed to governments and well-meaning individuals to assist him with funds to first pay his wife’s bride price.

“I am begging governments and individuals to help me with money to first pay her bride price before burying her and my child”, he appealed.

The Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Mr. Peter Obi, has said Nigeria can become Africa’s beacon of hope with competent, committed, and compassionate leadership.

He said this while addressing African youths at the Africa Together Conference, which had the theme “The Making of Africa’s Future Presidents,” yesterday at the University of Cambridge, United Kingdom.

On Sunday, the former Anambra State Governor shared his thoughts and experiences on his X handle.

He said, “Yesterday, at the University of Cambridge, United Kingdom, I was honoured with an invitation to address African youths in the African Together Conference tagged ‘The Making of Africa’s Future Presidents.”

“I was delighted to interact with these youths drawn from different African countries and passionate about making a positive difference in society. I was inspired by the energy and determination of these young leaders, and I remain committed to empowering them to shape Africa’s future.

“Our discussion centred on the pathway to dismantling corruption and building a better future for our continent.

“I reiterated how investing in the critical areas of human and national development, education, health, and pulling people out of poverty can drive immeasurable growth and development in any nation and continent.

“Drawing examples from our comparable nations: China, India, Indonesia, Vietnam, and the continent of Asia, I showed how committed leadership can turn around any country and continent by prioritising investments in these areas.

“I shared insights from my political journey, highlighting the challenges and opportunities that come with serving the public. I maintained that Nigeria, and indeed Africa, can work for all if we dismantle corruption and rascality in governance and prioritise investment in the critical areas of development.

“With competent, committed, and compassionate leadership, Nigeria can become a beacon of hope, and Africa will rise to become a global economic powerhouse.

“I thank the African Society, University of Cambridge, for hosting this important event, and I also appreciate the young leaders who participated with such enthusiasm and dedication.

“As we strive to build the New Nigeria, we all must get involved in this important process of nation-building by ensuring that only competent, capable, committed leaders with character and integrity are elected into public offices.”

The Rivers State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, has issued a 14-day ultimatum to the Rivers State Police Command to tender an unreserved public apology over the assault on five journalists during a peaceful protest in Port Harcourt or risk a statewide media blackout.

This was contained in a statement jointly signed by the Council Chairman, Paul Bazia, and Secretary, Ijeoma Tubosia, yesterday in Port Harcourt, the state capital.

The NUJ condemned the actions of police officers involved, demanding their immediate identification and prosecution, noting that any further attack on journalists in the state would be vehemently resisted.

“The NUJ, as a watchdog of society, will not sit idly by while media practitioners are subjected to barbarism and brutality. Enough is enough,” the statement warned.

According to the union, the incident was “unprovoked, barbaric, and inhuman,” saying it amounted to a gross violation of the rights of the affected journalists.

Those assaulted include Charles Opurum of Channels TV, Allwell Ene of Naija FM, Soibelemari Oruwari of Nigeria Info, Ikezam Godswill of AIT, and Femi Ogunkhilede of Super FM.

The journalists were said to have been tear-gassed while covering the protest, with Opurum beaten, and detained by security operatives.

Expressing deep regret over the incident, the NUJ lamented that an institution tasked with safeguarding lives and property has turned its weapons on citizens, particularly journalists performing their lawful duties.

Despite the provocation, the union reaffirmed its commitment to constructive engagement and partnership with the police in the interest of peace and national development.

It, however, cautioned the police not to jeopardise the existing relationship with the media.

The NUJ also urged its members to remain calm and law-abiding, expressing hope that the police authorities would take decisive steps to address the matter and ensure a more respectful working relationship with journalists in Rivers State.

The Federal Government yesterday formally inaugurated the board and management of the Nigerian Independent System Operator, NISO, marking the official unbundling of the Transmission Company of Nigeria, TCN, into two separate entities.

Under the new structure, the Transmission Service Provider, TSP, will oversee TCN’s physical infrastructure, including transmission towers, power lines, and substations. Meanwhile, NISO will take charge of system operations, managing load allocation from generation companies to distribution companies and eligible customers.

Speaking at the induction ceremony organised by the Bureau of Public Enterprises, the Managing Director/CEO of NISO, Engr. Abdu Mohammed, stated that the company is committed to enhancing the reliability and stability of the national electricity grid.

Mohammed explained that the national grid would be managed in a transparent and pragmatic manner, ensuring that all operators play by the rules.

“Our major role in the power industry is to bring the needed changes in the system that will enhance availability, reliability, and quality of supply of electricity to Nigerians. In addition to that, we’re supposed to create an atmosphere, an environment of transparency, discipline, and orderliness in electricity business in Nigeria, meaning that participants in generation, transmission, distribution, and eligible customers behave in a passionate manner in line with the provisions of the market rules and the grid code.

“The coming on board of the NISO Board of Management will usher these qualities that are required to make the power sector tick, just like other power sectors in bigger jurisdictions.

“Now it’s a journey. It’s not a one-off business. The beginning of the journey starts today. We begin today, and we’re going to hit the ground running. Tomorrow, we’re going to Oshogbo, the National Control Center, to make sure that our operators are aligned to our vision, mission, objectives, and goals as enshrined in the Electricity Act 2023”, he added.

With the grid proving very unreliable following a series of collapses and trippings, Engr. Mohammed said: “We understand the challenges in the industry, and we’re going to tackle them pragmatically and systematically. We’re going to deal with these problems, like I said, it’s a journey, we’re starting from somewhere, and gradually, definitely with speed and quality, we shall be there to make sure that Nigerians enjoy a steady, reliable electricity supply in the nearest period”.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had two weeks ago appointed Dr. Adesegun Akin-Olugbade as NISO Board board chairman, with Engineer Abdu Mohammed as Managing Director.

The President also appointed four Executive Directors: Engineer Nafisatu Asabe Ali for Systems Operation, Engineer Shehu Abba-Aliyu for Systems Planning, Dr. Edmund Eje for Market Operations, and Mr. Babajide Ibironke for Finance and Corporate Services.

The Non-Executive Directors include Engineer Lamu Audu, representing Generation; Mrs Folake Soetan for Distribution; Mr Tajudeen Giwa-Osagie as Market Expert; Engineer Sule Ahmed Abdulaziz for Transmission, and Alhaji Mahmuda Mamman, Permanent Secretary at the Federal Ministry of Power.”

By Emma Ogbuehi

Foremost entrepreneur and founder of Diamond Bank, Pascal Gabriel Dozie, is dead. Media reports quote family sources as disclosing that he died in the early hours of Tuesday, a day to his 86th birthday.

Dozie was the founder of Diamond Bank, one of the country’s most innovative banks before its merger with Access Bank. He also served as the pioneer Chairman of MTN Nigeria, playing a pivotal role in shaping the country’s mobile telecommunications revolution.

Born on April 9, 1939 in Egbu, Owerri, Imo State, Dozie’s early brilliance took him from Our Lady’s School in Emekuku to the London School of Economics, where he studied economics and earned a master’s degree in administrative science.

In 1990, he founded Diamond Bank, which became one of Nigeria’s most respected financial institutions before its eventual merger with Access Bank. He later handed the reins to his son, Uzoma.

Dozie was also instrumental to the launching of MTN Nigeria, serving as its pioneer chairman and helping to lead the telecom revolution in the country. His leadership style marked by humility, integrity, and long-term vision earned him widespread recognition, including the national honour of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON).

He is survived by his wife Chinyere, and children.

The senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has filed a N5 billion suit against her colleague, Senator Onyekachi Nwaebonyi, who represents the Ebonyi North Central Senatorial District, over alleged defamation.

The suit, filed by Akpoti-Uduaghan through her lawyer, Michael Numa, at the Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja, seeks to declare as false and malicious, statements made by Nwaebonyi during an interview on Channels Television on March 6, 2025.

According to the suit, Akpoti-Uduaghan asserted that Nwaebonyi described her as a “gold digger, habitual liar, and habitual blackmailer” during the interview.

Amongst others, she prayed the court to declare as false, malicious, and defamatory claims that she is a mother of six children from different men allegedly made by her colleague. She noted that such remarks undermine her reputation as a role model for women aspiring to enter politics.

“The defendant’s characterisation of the claimant as a ‘mother of six from different men’ is baseless, malicious, and reckless,” the suit states.

“The claimant is an inspiration to women in politics and aspiring women for speaking truth to power. “The claimant is not tarnishing the chances of women in politics as falsely alleged. Rather, she is inspiring women to be bold in their pursuit of political aspirations and good governance.”

Akpoti-Uduaghan in the suit contended that Nwaebonyi’s statements have caused significant harm to her reputation and public embarrassment.

The senator from Kogi proceeded to seek a court order restraining Nwaebonyi from making further malicious statements against her.

Additionally, she asked the court to direct Nwaebonyi to pay N5 billion in aggravated and exemplary damages for the false, malicious, and injurious statements made against her. She also requested that the court compel Nwaebonyi to retract the defamatory remarks on the same platform where they were initially made and issue an unreserved apology. The court filing seeks “an order of perpetual injunction restraining the defendant, his associates, agents, assignees, servants, privies, proxies, allies, or anyone acting on his behalf from further publishing or causing to be published the words complained of, or any other defamatory statements concerning the claimant.”

The document further requested “an order of this Honourable Court compelling the defendant to retract the defamatory statements on the same platforms used to make the allegations and to tender an unreserved apology in at least two national newspapers, both in print and online, circulated nationwide, within seven days from the date of judgment.” It also calls for “an order of this Honourable Court awarding the sum of N5 billion as aggravated and exemplary damages in favour of the claimant for the false, malicious, and injurious statements that have caused the claimant considerable distress, reputational harm, embarrassment, and emotional distress.”

She also sought, “an order of this Honourable Court awarding post-judgment interest on the judgment sum at a rate of 10percent per annum from the date of delivery of the judgment until the judgment debt is fully paid.”

The senator representing Borno South, Ali Ndume, has criticised President Bola Tinubu over what he described as non-compliance with the federal character principle in political appointments.

Speaking on Arise TV’s Prime Time on Monday, the lawmaker accused the President of violating the constitutional requirement for balanced representation in government appointments.

Ndume pointed to Section 14(3) of the 1999 Constitution, which mandates that political appointments reflect the country’s diversity.

“The figures are there. You can look at the figures. I sent you one. I sent you figures. It’s not that I’m just making accusations. And it’s not that I’m saying, well, the president has no right to do that kind of thing.

“But it’s a constitutional provision. Section 13, I mean, Section 14 (3) of the constitution is very, very clear,” he said. The senator added that the current appointments fail to align with the federal character principle as outlined by law.

“When you look at it vis-a-vis the appointments made so far, and there are political appointments, the constitution is very clear.

“It is because of avoiding such infractions that the constitution clearly states that appointments, especially political appointments, should reflect the federal character, and that is not the case here.  “And all I am saying is to call the attention of Mr President to such infractions so that it can be corrected; otherwise, you know, these things can boomerang at a certain period of time”, Ndume stated.

Ndume, a senior member of the National Assembly, clarified that his comments were not meant as a personal attack on the President but rather a duty tied to his role as a lawmaker. “I know, as you rightly say, people look at me as somebody that is critical of the government. I have the right to do that in the first place. And in fact, that’s why I’m in the National Assembly in the first place.

“Collectively, we are supposed to oversight the acts of Mr President and point out some of these irregularities. That is what we swore to do. It’s not personal”, he added.

Addressing potential backlash for his remarks, Ndume remained resolute.

“Each one of us will stand before God, and God will ask him to account for what he is responsible for. Besides, we are all in this government. What will we tell our people? When you have these figures out, it is already viral, it is already in circulation.

“But you know what, after this interview, those attack dogs or maga-dogs will start attacking Ndume, not the message.

“It is not about Ndume or me being a senator. As a Nigerian, I have the right to voice out all these things. Not only that, I have the right to even protest. I have the right. That is guaranteed by the constitution. But from tomorrow, those so-called Tinubu boys or people will start attacking Ndume. These are the facts”, the lawmaker said.

By Abah Sunday, Abuja…

An Abuja High Court yesterday awarded N100 million in general damages against Louisville Girls Secondary School Gwagwalada for negligence of duty which led to the death of a student.

Justice Sylvanus Oriji delivered the judgment in a suit filed by Mr Ifeanyi Ikpeatusim, accusing the school of negligence that resulted in the death of his 9-year-old daughter, Kamzie.

In the suit marked CV/1738/18, Ikpeatusim alleged that the school’s failure to provide adequate medical attention to Kamzie who fell ill shortly after her admission prompted her untimely death.

Kamzie was admitted as a boarding student in September 2017 and became severely ill by October 2. She died a few days later.

According to the report, Justice Oriji held that the evidence presented clearly showed the school and its agents acted negligently by failing to attend promptly and adequately to Kamzie’s medical needs.

“The claimant established his allegations of negligence against the school. There is no amount of money that can bring back the child to life,” the judge ruled.

The court awarded N100 million as general damages and ordered a 10 per cent interest on the judgment sum from April 8 until full payment.

An additional N300,000 was awarded as the cost of the suit.

Justice Oriji noted that one significant outcome of the case was the improvement of the school’s sickbay following the incident.

He remarked that the presence of doctors attending to students twice daily was a commendable development.

Though the claimant had requested that a school structure be named in honour of Kamzie, Justice Oriji however held otherwise.

Oriji said: “The court is of the opinion that the improvement in the sickbay, ensuring doctors are available twice daily, is in honour of Kamzie, as part of reforms recommended by her family.

“The claimant should take solace in the fact that Kamzie has been honoured by the school through these improvements.”

By Abah Sunday, Abuja…

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Nyesom Wike while inspecting projects in Abuja has  expressed concerns  about land hoarding by public institutions.

This is coming as the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), gears up for scores of project inauguration to mark President Bola Tinubu’s second year in office on May 29, FCT.

Wike disclosed this to newsmen in Abuja at weekend after an inspection of the 15-kilometre OSEX Road leading to Wassa, being handled by CGC Construction, culminating at the road leading to the EFCC Academy.

Wike who expressed satisfaction over the pace and quality of work done by the contractors was visibly unimpressed with the size of land acquired by the University of Abuja, and voiced strong concerns over what he described as “land grabbing in the name of education.”.

He did not spare the Nigerian Police either,

who were put on notice over undeveloped parcels of land allocated to them years ago.

He said: “We are very happy with what we are seeing and the quality of jobs. Mr President will be happy too when he comes to inaugurate them. This is what it means to keep promises made.”

“You can’t deny development where a university will go and take over 1,000 hectares of land, for what purpose? We’ve been to universities across the country. Just grabbing land is not what makes a university; it is infrastructure and quality.

“What future are we talking about?” Wike fired back when asked if the land might be for long-term expansion.

“Before you know it, they will begin to lease it out. If you don’t develop it, the government will take it back and give it to those who will.”

Pressed on whether the administration would reclaim the land, the Minister said, “Don’t jump the gun. Let the Director of Lands come to me. We’ll invite the university and the Police and ask why they’ve not developed the area.” He said.

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has described the late Chief Padcal Dozie as one of the nation’s most intrepid entrepreneurs.

Late Chief Paschal Dozie died early Tuesday, the passing Obasanjo said was received with mixed feelings of sadness and gratitude to God.

In a statement by his Special Assistant on Media, Kehinde Akinyemi, the former President said he was “sad because we will miss his contribution to the building of a new Nigeria of his dream, but I am grateful to God for such a life well spent in the service of our fatherland.

“We thank God for his life. He lived to the ripe age of 85, and in the course of this, he was able to make an impact, not just at the family level but also within the community and his profession.

In his tribute, Obasanjo said the late Dozie was “a serial entrepreneur who rose to become one of the major figures and icons in the Nigerian business and entrepreneurial community in the 20th and 21st centuries in Nigeria.

He was a former Chairman of the MTN Foundation, former Board Member of the African Capital Alliance, founder and the main inspiration behind the defunct Diamond Bank, and former President of the Nigerian Stock Exchange, among others. I am impressed by his humility and his humanism.

He had friends across the social strata, and he did not discriminate, irrespective of age or social status. Through all of the businesses he ventured into, he created thousands of jobs for many Nigerians, irrespective of tribe and religion.

To Obasanjo, “I celebrate a man who lived a life of purpose, a life of achievement and who impacted the lives of many Nigerians by creating jobs and opportunities for generations who I believe will always remember him as one of those diamonds that Nigeria produced. Indeed, the great outpouring of sympathy for the family and his loved ones since his death was announced is also an eloquent testimony to the enduring, nationwide bonds of comradeship and friendship which Paschal forged in his many years of service to our nation. He was a great man!

“My thoughts and prayers are with his family at this time as they mourn the passing of this illustrious son of Africa.

“On behalf of my family and my behalf, I express sincere condolences and pray God to grant them all the grace to bear this great loss.

“May the gentle soul of the dear departed rest in perfect peace.

Former Governor of Imo State, Hon. Emeka Ihedioha, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of the founder of defunct Diamond Bank, Pascal Gabriel Dozie, describing him as “an Iroko from the East” and one of Nigeria’s finest Ambassadors.

In a condolence message yesterday, Ihedioha said the news of the elder statesman’s death had reverberated across the nation, casting a shadow of grief on all who knew him and drew inspiration from his life.

“Fondly called Nda Pascal by his people, he was not just a titan in the corporate world but also a pillar of wisdom, integrity, and quiet strength,” Ihedioha said.

He praised Dozie’s trailblazing career, highlighting his roles as the founding Chairman of Diamond Bank PLC, former Chairman of MTN Nigeria, former President of the Nigerian Stock Exchange, and former Chairman of the Nigeria Economic Summit Group, among others.

“Beyond boardrooms and titles, Nda Pascal was a true elder statesman — a distinguished entrepreneur of rare pedigree, a mentor to many, and a beacon of excellence and humility,” Ihedioha added.

He noted that Dozie’s legacy lives on not only through the institutions he built but also in the countless lives he touched and inspired.

“We have indeed lost one of our finest ambassadors who put us in a positive limelight,” he stated, praying for the repose of Dozie’s soul and strength for his loved ones.

The late entrepreneur and businessman passed away on Tuesday, April 8, at the age of 85.