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Political Crisis in Rivers State Deepens as Governor Fubara Denies Allegations by Former Head of Service

By
Roland Edet
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0

 

The political crisis in Rivers State took another dramatic turn as the suspended Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, on Friday night denied allegations leveled against him by the immediate past Head of Civil Service, Dr. George Nwaeke.

 

Dr. Nwaeke, who recently resigned from his position, accused Governor Fubara of orchestrating the ongoing crisis in the state, including involvement in the burning of the state assembly chamber before its demolition. He further alleged that the governor held a secret meeting with the Chairman of the PDP Governors Forum, Bala Mohammed, as part of a plot to unseat President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

 

Fubara’s Response

 

Governor Fubara, in a personally signed statement, dismissed the allegations, claiming that Dr. Nwaeke had either been compromised or was speaking under duress. He urged Rivers people and Nigerians to disregard the claims, stating:

 

“My attention has been drawn to a press briefing by the former Head of Service, Dr. George Nwaeke, aired on Channels Television on Friday, March 28, 2025. Ordinarily, I would not have responded, but it is necessary to correct the erroneous impression such allegations might create and the potential disaffection they could cause in the state and the country.”

 

Dismissing the claims of conspiring with Bala Mohammed, he stated:

 

“It is laughable that Dr. Nwaeke, as Head of Service, would be privy to any high-level political meeting, much more attending alleged night meetings with Bala Mohammed and militants. No such meetings ever took place.”

 

Governor Fubara also refuted allegations that he encouraged attacks on oil pipelines and other national assets, emphasizing his commitment to peace in Rivers State:

 

“I have always preached peace, even in the face of provocation. Dr. Nwaeke has clearly been compromised, and his statements are aimed at discrediting my administration and undermining the peace process initiated by Mr. President.”

 

Dr. Nwaeke’s Allegations

 

In his media briefing aired on Channels Television, Dr. Nwaeke stated:

 

“As an insider and key player in this administration, it would be unfair for me to remain silent. If not for President Tinubu’s intervention, Nigeria would have faced severe economic sabotage, and Rivers State would have been engulfed in flames.”

 

He accused Governor Fubara of directing his Chief of Staff, Edison Ehie, to orchestrate the burning of the State Assembly complex on October 29, 2023, to prevent impeachment by pro-Wike lawmakers:

 

“I was present when a bag of money was handed over to Edison for the operation. The House of Assembly complex was deliberately set ablaze under Governor Fubara’s orders.”

 

Dr. Nwaeke further alleged that the governor planned to sabotage oil infrastructure and use the influence of Ijaw militant groups to determine Nigeria’s next president:

 

“Governor Fubara explicitly told me that he and the Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, would use their control over oil pipelines to determine Nigeria’s leadership. The plan was to initiate destruction in non-Ijaw areas first to create the appearance of a statewide crisis.”

 

Allegations of Hostage Situation

 

Meanwhile, in a new twist, Dr. Nwaeke’s wife, Mrs. Florence Nwaeke, claimed her husband was forced to make the statements under duress. Speaking in an emotional interview with Channels TV, she alleged:

 

“My husband was pressured to sign a false document alleging that Governor Fubara misappropriated ₦15 billion. He refused and resigned instead. Hours after he left for a meeting in Abuja, I saw a press release and a televised interview of him making accusations that do not reflect his true stance.”

 

She insisted that her husband’s remarks were scripted and coerced:

 

“I sent him a message asking if he was being held against his will, but I have received no response. That was not his voice speaking freely on television.”

 

Ongoing Political Unrest

 

The unfolding crisis continues to shake Rivers State, with conflicting claims from both sides fueling tension. While Dr. Nwaeke stands by his accusations, Governor Fubara has dismissed them as politically motivated falsehoods aimed at destabilizing his administration.

 

With the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, stakeholders remain divided, and concerns over security and governance loom large. President Tinubu and the National Assembly’s involvement in the crisis signals the gravity of the situation, as Nigerians await further developments.

 

 

 

 

Alake Hails Tinubu as a Visionary Leader on His 73rd Birthday

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

 

The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, has described President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as a bold and transformative leader whose vision and courage are shaping Nigeria’s future.

 

In a tribute marking the President’s 73rd birthday, Alake highlighted Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to national development, emphasizing that the occasion’s alignment with the end of Ramadan made it even more significant. He urged Nigerians to honor the President’s wish by offering prayers for the country instead of elaborate celebrations.

 

“I congratulate my boss, ally, and visionary leader on the occasion of his 73rd birthday. Your life’s journey is a testament to God’s faithfulness and grace,” Alake stated.

 

Reflecting on Tinubu’s leadership, he commended the President’s ability to navigate obstacles and push through critical reforms. “Despite overwhelming challenges, you rose to the highest office and took decisive steps where others hesitated. Your economic and security policies are already yielding positive results, with declining inflation, stabilizing food prices, and significant improvements in security,” he noted.

 

Alake praised Tinubu’s leadership in security affairs, pointing to enhanced coordination among security agencies that has led to the elimination of terrorists and the neutralization of key bandit leaders.

 

“As you celebrate this milestone, may the Almighty grant you continued strength, wisdom, and good health to fulfill your vision for a better Nigeria,” he added.

 

Reiterating the President’s call for prayers, Alake urged Nigerians to seize this moment to pray for the nation’s peace and prosperity.

 

“Happy Birthday, Mr. President. May your years ahead be filled with impactful service to the nation,” he concluded.

 

PDP Professionals Warn Rivers Sole Administrator Against Managing State Funds

By
Roland Edet
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0

The Conference of Professionals in the Peoples Democratic Party (CP-PDP) has issued a stern warning to the Rivers State Sole Administrator, Vice-Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd), cautioning him against appropriating or disbursing any statutory allocations or funds meant for the state.

 

Following a strategy meeting in Abuja, the group, through its Protem National Coordinator, Barr. Obinna Nwachukwu, declared that no provision of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) grants Ibas such authority. The CP-PDP cited Sections 120(3)(4) and 121(1) of the Constitution, which vest power over state funds and budgeting solely in a democratically elected governor and the State House of Assembly.

 

The group further questioned the legality of Ibas’ appointment by President Bola Tinubu, even with National Assembly endorsement, arguing that it violates Section 5(2) of the Constitution, which states that executive powers of a state belong only to an elected governor.

 

Describing the appointment as unconstitutional, the CP-PDP vowed to:

 

Petition the EFCC to scrutinize any financial transactions by the Sole Administrator.

 

Engage international bodies, including the United Nations, to impose sanctions such as visa bans on individuals undermining democracy in Rivers State.

 

 

The group also commended PDP Governors for approaching the Supreme Court to challenge the matter, reaffirming their commitment to protecting democracy in Nigeria.

 

FCTA Intensifies Revenue Drive to Fund Key Infrastructure Projects – Wike

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has pledged to aggressively enhance revenue collection to facilitate the completion of critical infrastructure projects across Abuja, according to FCT Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike.

 

During an inspection of ongoing projects, Wike emphasized the importance of tax compliance and prudent financial management in sustaining development. “We are going to be very aggressive in our revenue drive to achieve more projects,” he stated. He also defended the revocation of Certificates of Occupancy (C of O) for non-compliance, noting that taxes and levies fund essential infrastructure.

 

The Minister assured residents that the FCTA is committed to avoiding abandoned projects, stressing that proper financial planning is crucial. “It is not just about awarding contracts but ensuring they are completed,” he said.

 

During the site visits, Wike expressed satisfaction with progress on major projects, including the Court of Appeal complex, Outer Southern Expressway (OSEX), and Inner Southern Expressway (ISEX). He particularly commended Salini Construction for fast-tracking a bridge project delayed for over a decade, announcing its completion by May 2025.

 

Crediting President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, Wike highlighted the revival of abandoned projects, restoring public and contractor confidence. He urged Abuja residents to fulfill their civic duties by paying taxes and ground rents, ensuring continued urban development.

 

Nigeria , Germany Reinforce Defence Partnership with Renewed MoU

By
Victor Obabunmi
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0

 

The Governments of Nigeria and Germany have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral defence cooperation with the signing of a renewed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the German Technical Advisory Group (GTAG). The agreement, which has been in place for 12 years and is renewed every four years, was formalized at a signing ceremony held at Ship House, Abuja.

 

Speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence, Ambassador Gabriel Tanimu Aduda, described the MoU as a strategic counterpart funding arrangement that underscores the strong defence ties between both nations. He emphasized that the renewed agreement aligns with Nigeria and Germany’s shared objectives, fostering long-term security collaboration and developmental goals.

 

Ambassador Aduda further highlighted the Nigerian government’s commitment to ensuring accountability, and efficiency in the implementation of the agreement. He stressed that adherence to strict timelines and rigorous monitoring would be prioritized to guarantee the effective execution of all agreed engagements. Additionally, he assured that all procurement aspects of the agreement would undergo thorough evaluation to ensure value for money.

 

On his part, Colonel Boris Bovekemp, Defence Attaché of Germany to Nigeria, reaffirmed Germany’s unwavering commitment to enhancing cooperation in key areas, particularly in defence, security, and capacity-building initiatives. He commended the enduring partnership between Nigeria and Germany and reiterated the importance of strengthening existing agreements to address evolving security challenges.

 

The renewed MoU marks another milestone in the Nigeria-Germany defence partnership, reinforcing mutual efforts to enhance security, capacity development, and technical cooperation.

Flag Moves to Tackle Power Crisis in Hospitals, Inaugurates Implementation Committee

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

 

…Says energy costs draining healthcare budgets, calls for sustainable solutions

The Federal Government has launched a major initiative to address the persistent power crisis in public hospitals, warning that rising electricity costs and unreliable supply are threatening healthcare delivery across Nigeria.

At the inauguration of the Implementation Committee for the National Dialogue on Power in the Health Sector, held at the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Abuja, on March 28, 2025, the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Salako, emphasized the need for a strategic and sustainable energy framework to power hospitals.

“Hospitals across the country are grappling with massive energy deficits and escalating costs. The time for uncoordinated, haphazard energy solutions is over. We must develop smart, sustainable power alternatives to strengthen our health system and improve patient care,” Dr. Salako stated.

FG’s Intervention and Need for a New Approach

Dr. Salako acknowledged the 50% electricity subsidy for public hospitals and the deployment of solar mini-grids in select facilities. However, he admitted that these measures have not been enough to address the worsening power crisis.

“The current situation requires a whole-of-government approach. We must rethink our traditional models of power generation and supply in hospitals to ensure efficiency and sustainability,” he emphasized.

To bridge the gap, the Minister directed Medical Directors of Federal Tertiary Health Institutions to explore Public-Private Partnership (PPP) models and attract investments in alternative and renewable energy solutions.

“I urge all public healthcare institutions to make this a priority. Strategic partnerships will be crucial in bridging the power gap in our hospitals,” he said.

Objectives of the National Dialogue on Power in Healthcare

The National Dialogue, expected to be held in Abuja or Lagos, aims to:

Assess the current power supply challenges in public hospitals.

Identify best practices from other low-middle-income countries (LMICs).

Explore alternative energy solutions such as solar, backup power systems, and energy-efficient technologies.

Strengthen Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) for sustainable electricity supply.

Develop a clear policy framework for long-term energy sustainability in the health sector.

The dialogue will bring together experts from the health and power sectors, with key decisions documented in a communiqué and a Collaborative Plan of Action for implementation.

Implementation Committee to Drive Solutions

To ensure the dialogue leads to real change, Dr. Salako inaugurated an Implementation Committee, assigning it three key responsibilities:

1. Organizing the National Stakeholders Dialogue on Power in the Health Sector.

2. Ensuring the execution of key recommendations from the dialogue.

3. Mobilizing resources and attracting investments for sustainable hospital electrification.

A Call for Collective Action

Dr. Salako expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for prioritizing the health sector, as well as to the Coordinating Minister for Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, and the Minister of Power, for their collaboration on this initiative.

> “We must move beyond temporary fixes and work collaboratively to provide lasting energy solutions for our hospitals. A well-powered healthcare system is essential to achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) in Nigeria,” he concluded.

With hospitals spending hundreds of millions of naira monthly on power, the National Dialogue on Power in the Health Sector is expected to set Nigeria on the path toward reliable, cost-effective, and sustainable electricity solutions for healthcare facilities nationwide.

 

First Lady Oluremi Tinubu Hosts Former First Ladies, Female Lawmakers to Ramadan Iftar

By
Gladys Phillip
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0

 

Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, on Thursday, hosted a special Iftar—the symbolic breaking of fast during Ramadan—with former First Ladies of Nigeria, female National Assembly members, and wives of lawmakers in attendance.

 

Speaking at the event, the First Lady reassured Nigerians that President Bola Tinubu’s administration remains committed to improving the country and alleviating the challenges faced by citizens.

 

> “The government is doing all it can to improve the country and make life better for Nigerians,” she emphasized.

 

 

 

Call for Compassion and Unity

 

Senator Tinubu encouraged acts of kindness, urging everyone to lend a helping hand to those in need.

 

> “If each of us can take one person at a time and lend a helping hand, it will go a long way in ameliorating the hardship of others,” she advised.

 

 

 

She also highlighted the coincidence of Ramadan and Lent this year, describing it as divinely ordained and an opportunity for sober reflection across religious divides.

 

> “This is a time of sober reflection for our Muslim brothers and sisters, as well as our Christian brethren who are observing Lent. God ordained it to be so at this time in our nation,” she noted.

 

 

 

She urged the Muslim Ummah to uphold the virtues of Ramadan beyond the fasting period and continue seeking God’s mercy and guidance for the nation.

 

Wife of the Vice President Calls for Prayers for Nigeria

 

In her welcome address, the wife of the Vice President, Hajiya Nana Shettima, expressed gratitude to the First Lady for hosting the gathering.

 

She called on attendees to continue praying for the President and the nation, stressing the power of prayer in shaping the country’s future.

 

Lecture on the Spiritual Significance of Ramadan

 

The Vice-Chancellor of Azman University, Kano, Professor Fatima Mukhtar, delivered a lecture on the spiritual significance and teachings of Ramadan, highlighting the virtues of patience, charity, and self-discipline.

 

The event concluded with special prayers for Nigeria, President Tinubu, and all citizens, as attendees reflected on the essence of faith, unity, and national progress.

 

SIR AZUKA OKWUOSA: A BEAM OF VICTORY AND A BEACON OF HOPE FOR NDỊ ANAMBRA SOUTH

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

*SIR AZUKA OKWUOSA: A BEAM OF VICTORY AND A BEACON OF HOPE FOR NDỊ ANAMBRA SOUTH*

The surest way of winning tough elections is to feature beams of victory. A careful scrutiny of the party’s Senatorial bye-election contenders has the pointer on Sir Azuka Okwuosa as the beam of victory. Why him? Simple – his positive attitudes, constructive beliefs and proactive choices. This paradigm shift paves the way for his personal and professional successes endearing him to the people. An Excellent Leader at all times!

Our Senatorial hopeful exhibits a high level of positive attitude- very optimistic and has a tendency to focus on the brighter side of life which makes him resilient, coming out of situations stronger and better. He is one of the Stalwarts in the party who have stayed longer than most people, painstakingly and enduringly seeking for how to better the lots of the party members.

Commendably, Sir Zukky’s constructive beliefs makes him promote positive adaptations and contribute to the wellbeing of people around him. Fostering compassion for others makes him happy… “Chinyelugo nwelụ obi mmadụ”.

Okwuosa’s proactive choices attribute makes him take initiative and make decisions that anticipate potential issues or opportunities, focusing on taking charge, shaping the future of his people and giving them hope of a better tomorrow.

Beams of Victory are Voters’ choice; Ndị APC Anambra South the ball is in your court, let’s pass the ball to Ndị Anambra South for them to score the golden goal and send Chinyelugo to the Senate to usher in well deserved progress and development into the Zone.

Support Sir Azuka Okwuosa for quality Representation of Ndị Anambra South.

*SIR AZUKA OKWUOSA MEDIA*

Interior Minister Warns Foreign Firms, Vows Action Over Alleged Shooting of Immigration Officer

By
Roland Edet
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0

 

The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has issued a strong warning to foreign companies operating in Nigeria, emphasizing that while the country welcomes investment and collaboration, all businesses must abide by Nigerian laws.

 

Speaking at the Stakeholders’ Sensitization Workshop on the Nigeria Visa Policy 2025 on Thursday, the minister condemned an alleged shooting of a Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) officer in Minna, Niger State, reportedly on the orders of operatives of a Chinese company.

 

“An Attack on Nigeria” – Minister Declares

 

Dr. Tunji-Ojo described the incident as unacceptable, stating that no foreign company has the right to intimidate or obstruct NIS officers from carrying out their lawful duties.

 

> “That will never happen. I will not go to any country, open a company, and tell immigration officers they are not allowed. One of them shot one of our employees. The owner of a foreign company told the security attaché to shoot our officer. That happened a couple of weeks ago. We are taking it up with the Chinese Embassy.”

 

 

 

The minister further stated that such actions amount to an attack on Nigeria, vowing that the government would pursue the matter diplomatically and ensure justice.

 

> “These officers put their lives on the line. You will not come from anywhere and ask to shoot them in their fatherland. It will no longer happen. No agent, no company is above the law.”

 

 

 

Nigeria to Enforce Strict Visa Regulations

 

Dr. Tunji-Ojo also announced tighter visa regulations, warning that Nigeria will not be a safe haven for individuals with questionable characters. He emphasized that foreign nationals must respect the country’s immigration laws, adding that visa applications will now be processed based on a strict security framework.

 

> “We are automating our grey and black lists of immigration. If you keep violating our laws, Nigeria is not interested in you.”

 

 

 

The new visa framework will categorize applicants into three lists:

 

White List – Those who comply with immigration laws and can freely enter Nigeria.

 

Grey List – Individuals with minor infractions who must pay penalties.

 

Black List – Those involved in serious infractions, including security threats and immigration law violations, will be permanently barred.

 

 

Additionally, visa overstayers will now face penalties, and those exceeding a set period could face suspension or blacklisting.

 

Nigeria Visa Policy 2025: A Major Immigration Reform

 

In her opening remarks, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, described the Nigerian Visa Policy 2025 (NVP 2025) as a landmark reform aimed at balancing national security with economic development.

 

> “The NVP 2025 reflects the government’s commitment to an immigration system that strengthens security, attracts investment, and boosts tourism.”

 

 

 

The policy is built on four key pillars:

 

1. Enhancing National Security – Through biometric verification and digitized border management.

 

 

2. Facilitating Economic Growth – By streamlining visa procedures and reducing bureaucratic hurdles.

 

 

3. Improving Ease of Doing Business – Ensuring seamless experiences for investors, business travelers, and skilled professionals.

 

 

4. Promoting Safe and Legal Migration – Encouraging orderly immigration while preventing security threats.

 

 

 

The Nigeria Visa Policy 2025 has been developed in collaboration with key ministries, diplomatic missions, private sector stakeholders, and international development partners.

 

With these reforms, the government aims to make Nigeria more attractive to investors and skilled professionals while strengthening immigration enforcement.

 

House of Reps Advances Bill to Set 60-Year Age Limit for Presidential, Gubernatorial Candidates

By
Gladys Phillip
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0

 

The Nigerian House of Representatives has passed for second reading a bill seeking to bar individuals above 60 years from contesting for the offices of President and Governor.

 

If passed into law, the bill could disqualify major political figures such as President Bola Tinubu, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, and Peter Obi from contesting in the 2027 presidential election, as all three exceed the proposed age limit.

 

Key Provisions of the Bill

 

The bill, titled “A Bill for an Act to amend the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, to revise the eligibility criteria for individuals seeking election as President, Vice President, Governors, and Deputy Governors in Nigeria,” was introduced by Rep. Ikenga Ugochinyere (PDP, Imo).

 

Proposed amendments include:

 

1. Educational Qualification:

 

A candidate for President or Governor must possess at least a university degree (Bachelor’s).

 

 

 

2. Age Limit:

 

President: Must not be more than 60 years at the time of election.

 

Governor: Must not be more than 60 years at the time of election.

 

 

 

 

The bill was among 31 legislative proposals that passed second reading during Thursday’s plenary session.

 

Other Key Bills Passed for Second Reading

 

1. Federal University Bills

 

Alvan Ikoku Federal University of Education Bill (Imo State) – Sponsored by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas and Rep. Ugochinyere, seeking federal recognition and funding for the institution.

 

Federal University of Education, Zaria Bill – Co-sponsored by Speaker Abbas and Rep. Yusuf Gagdi to establish a teacher-training university in Zaria.

 

Yusuf Maitama Sule Federal University of Education Bill (Kano) and University of Nigerian Languages Bill (Aba) also scaled second reading.

 

 

2. Political Inclusion and Representation

 

Inclusion of Youths & Persons with Disabilities in Political Appointments Bill – Sponsored by Rep. Ugochinyere, seeking to mandate youth and disability representation in political appointments.

 

Reserved Seats for Women in National and State Assemblies Bill – Sponsored by Rep. Kafilat Ogbara, aimed at enhancing gender inclusivity in legislative representation.

 

 

3. Electoral and Economic Reforms

 

Trade and Commerce Bill – Seeks to move trade regulation to the concurrent legislative list, allowing both federal and state governments to regulate interstate commerce.

 

Judicial Reform Bills:

 

Timelines for Justice Administration Bill – Sponsored by Rep. Benjamin Kalu, aimed at improving efficiency in justice delivery.

 

Increase in Number of Supreme Court & Court of Appeal Justices Bill – Sponsored by Rep. Bello Kaoje, proposing an increase in the number of justices to speed up case resolutions.

 

 

 

4. State Creation Bills

 

Creation of Wan State (North Central) Bill

 

Creation of Gobir State (North West) Bill

 

 

Next Steps

 

The 60-year age limit bill and other proposed legislations will undergo further scrutiny in committee stages before being considered for final passage.

 

If enacted, the age limit amendment would mark a significant shift in Nigeria’s electoral landscape, potentially reshaping presidential and gubernatorial contests ahead of 2027.

 

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