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Governor Otti Accused Of Plotting Fresh Laws Against LG Autonomy In Abia

By
Ola Akinola
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Abia state governor, Alex Otti has been accused of plotting against the functionality of Local Government Autonomy.

An Abia state chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prince Paul Ikonne, who stated this on Tuesday, added that Governor Otti is one of the governors prominently disobeying President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive on the functionality of Local Government Administrators in Nigeria.

Ikonne specifically accused the Abia state governor of “trying to amend, and find a way to create new laws in the state that will empower him to continue using the Local Government funds at will.”

The President at the recent National Executive Council (NEC) meeting of the APC lamented the refusal by the governors to obey the Supreme Court judgement on the Local Government Autonomy.

President Tinubu, however, threatened the state governors with an executive order, saying “I have the knife and I have the yam.”

Speaking on the development during an interview on Television Continental (TVC) popular programme “Politics Tonight’, Ikonne, who is the immidiate past Executive Secretary of the National Agricultural Land Development Authority (NALDA), said unlike Abia state, Local Government Areas in Lagos state are executing projects.

He said: “In Lagos state, you see local government building health centers, building schools. They are also council elected chairmen and councillors. So, the issue of knowing them may not be the issue, but the governor who should know that local government is another tier of government that is closer to the people, closer to the farmers, closer to the less privileged, closer to the widows, closer to the disabled people.

“But in some other states, like in Abia state for example, the governor of Abia state is trying to amend the laws, and find a way to create new laws that will empower him to continue using the local government funds at will, at his pleasure.”

According to Ikonne, local government is an arm of government that ought not to be played with, adding, “you can see how passionate Mr. President is in trying to drive the point that governors should let local government handle their funds and implement projects that will impact positively the lives of people. You know, it was really great and interesting to see Mr. President address that issue because it was looking like the President was not prepared to confront these powerful governors who are also key political allies.”

While commending President Tinubu for demonstrating sincerity, Ikonne added that “anybody playing politics with Mr. President’s statement is being misleading. If the President doesn’t speak to his party members, the governors that are within his party, who will he speak to? How well does this expose a deeper crisis of constitutional obedience among governors? It’s really a challenge.

The APC chieftain said: “In Enugu state, local governments are building schools, building hospitals. Lagos State is an example also. Lagos State local government council chairmen are also implementing projects. But there are states that are not. Where I come from, we must have to look at it from both sides to understand the weight of not allowing local government to have the autonomy.

“Abia state local government, 17 local governments receive an average of 7 to 8 billion Naira every month. Now, people are crying that there are hardships out there as a result of subsidy removal. But the President makes sure that money goes back to the local government. Money that would have cushioned the effect if these funds are properly utilized. If facilities are provided in the state at the local government level. If infrastructures are in place, hospitals, schools are put in place by the local government authorities. But they don’t see their funds.

“My local government, for example, receives an average of 400 to 500 million every month but the local government chairman gets 8 million naira only from the government.”

Ikonne challenged the Alex Otti-led administion to come out openly and tell Nigerians how he has utilized Local Government funds in the state.

He said: “One would have imagined that being a Labour Party, that they would have used this as an example to show what they would do. But unfortunately, if you get to Abia state, you find out why Abians, Nigerians in general, will not let anything Labour come up again. Because the party in power in Abia state have ruined the local government system, in the sense that you cannot lay hands on any single project executed by the local government authority.

Ikonne expressed confidence that APC governors who are yet to adhere to President Tinubu’s directive will take a cue after last week APC NEC meeting, adding that none of them will disobey the President.

“But I’m very optimistic that none of them (Governors) will disobey the president.”

While responding to a question on accusations that the APC is using federal might to force opposition governors into APC, Ikonne said said, “there are rumours that the man in Abia, Alex Otti wants to join APC. Has he been coaxed?

“So if he’s running around, clear indication some of them want to go back to the office. So they see that APC is taking control. In Abia today, 95% of PDP structure have collapsed into APC. So why wouldn’t the governor start running from pillar to post? Because he knows that nobody…, the APC has the population to vote and win elections.”

Governor Aiyedatiwa Declares Tinubu “Irreplaceable” for 2027, Welcomes Ondo Defectors

By
Ola Akinola
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0

AKURE – Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has firmly backed President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid for 2027, describing the Nigerian leader as “irreplaceable” during a political rally that saw key opposition figures defect to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

The declaration was made on Tuesday in Akure, the state capital, as Governor Aiyedatiwa concluded his “thank-you tour” of all 18 local government areas. The event, held in Akure South, served as both a show of gratitude for electoral support and a strategic mobilisation for the upcoming general elections.

Strengthening the APC Base with Strategic Defections

The governor used the platform to receive and integrate new members from opposition parties, significantly bolstering the APC’s structure in Ondo State. Notable defectors included:

· Adekanmbi Oluwatuyi, the immediate past Akure Youth Leader of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

· Chief Falusi, a PDP chieftain from Akoko North-East.

· Chief Kora Adebisi, a leader of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) from Akoko North-West.

· Hon. Yusuf Lateef, who defected alongside a group of former local government officials from 2016.

Governor Aiyedatiwa urged the new members to demonstrate loyalty through active participation and work diligently for the party’s success in future elections. “Your decision to join our party is a wise one. We welcome you and urge you to integrate fully and work for our collective victory,” he stated.

A Call for Party Unity and Supremacy

Amidst the celebratory defections, Governor Aiyedatiwa issued a strong caution against internal discord within the APC ranks. He warned that infighting would only weaken the party as political activities for the 2027 elections intensify.

“The strength of our party lies in our unity. We must avoid internal rancour,” the governor emphasised. “Party supremacy will determine who flies our flag in future elections. The APC remains one and indivisible.”

This message was reinforced by the state APC Vice Chairman, Atili Ikoto Agabra, who declared that the party had “no room for ‘joiners or partners,'” stressing that relevance within the APC would be determined strictly by members’ contributions and commitment.

Closing a Successful Political Tour

The Akure South event marked the completion of Governor Aiyedatiwa’s extensive tour, which was launched to thank voters for their support in the November 16, 2024, governorship election. He particularly acknowledged Akure South for delivering the highest number of votes among all local governments, describing the support as “decisive” to the APC’s victory.

The governor was accompanied by a high-powered delegation, including Deputy Governor Dr. Olayide Adelami, Secretary to the State Government Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti, Chief of Staff Prince Segun Omojuwa, several commissioners, and local government chairmen.

The event solidifies Governor Aiyedatiwa’s position as a key mobiliser in the South-West and signals a coordinated early start to the APC’s campaign machinery for the 2027 presidential election, with Tinubu’s re-election bid at its centre.

Court Rejects KWAM1’s Bid to Halt Awujale Selection: Interim Injunction Denied

By
Ola Akinola
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0

Substantive Suit Set for January 14, 2026**

In a significant ruling that keeps the succession process for the Awujale of Ijebuland on track, the Ogun State High Court sitting in Ijebu-Ode on Monday dismissed an application by popular Fuji musician Wasiu Ayinde Marshal, better known as KWAM1, seeking an interim injunction to stop Governor Dapo Abiodun and other respondents from proceeding with the selection and installation of the next paramount ruler.

Represented by Wahab Shittu (SAN), KWAM1 — who had declared his interest in the vacant stool, claiming descent from the Jadiara Royal House within the wider Fusengbuwa Ruling House — argued that the injunction was essential to protect his interests and prevent the “res” (subject matter of the suit) from being dissipated pending the full hearing of his substantive challenge.

Justice A. A. Omoniyi, however, held that the application lacked merit and that no compelling grounds existed to justify granting the interim relief. The judge instead ordered an expedited hearing of the main suit (HC3/238/2025), fixing January 14, 2026, for proceedings.

The suit, filed ex parte on December 16, 2025, names as respondents Governor Dapo Abiodun, the Chairman of Ijebu-Ode Local Government (Dare Alebiosu), Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs (Ganiyu Hamzat), Secretary to Ijebu-Ode Local Government (Oke Adebanjo), Chairman of the Awujale Interregnum Administrative Council (Dr. Olorogun Sunny Kuku), and the Chairman of the Fusengbuwa Ruling House (Otunba Lateef Owoyemi).

KWAM1’s claim hinges on alleged lineage ties to the Fusengbuwa Ruling House — whose turn it is under the rotational system established by the 1957/1959 chieftaincy declarations and the Ogun State Chieftaincy Law — but the ruling house has repeatedly rejected his eligibility, declaring in a December 11, 2025, letter that no proof exists of his membership in the Jadiara Royal House or the broader Fusengbuwa lineage, rendering his submitted linkage form “null, void, and of no consequence.”

The controversy erupted following the July 13, 2025, passing of the late Awujale, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona, after a 65-year reign. Initial steps directed the Fusengbuwa Ruling House to produce candidates within 14 days, but procedural issues led to a government-ordered cancellation of the process in mid-December, with multiple aspirants (reports suggest up to 60) expressing interest amid debates over rotation and eligibility.

KWAM1’s legal team invoked Order 38 Rules 4 and Order 39 Rule 1 of the Ogun State High Court (Civil Procedure) Rules 2024, Section 36 of the 1999 Constitution (fair hearing rights), and the court’s inherent jurisdiction, insisting the process violates chieftaincy law and his constitutional entitlements.

With the interim block rejected, the selection machinery can continue unless restrained at the substantive stage. The January 14 hearing will now decide whether KWAM1’s lineage claim holds water and if the current process breaches established customs and statutes.

The ruling underscores the delicate balance between traditional rotation, documented chieftaincy declarations, and judicial oversight in one of Yorubaland’s most prestigious stools. As Ijebuland awaits its new paramount ruler, the courtroom — rather than the palace — has become the immediate battleground.

2025: Akwa Ibom Police Rescue 74 Trafficking Victims, Secure 33 Convictions in Year of Strong Gains

By
Ola Akinola
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0

The Akwa Ibom State Police Command on Monday rolled out an impressive end-of-year scorecard, revealing that it rescued 74 victims of human trafficking, freed 10 kidnapped persons, and secured 33 criminal convictions from 563 arrests throughout 2025.

Commissioner of Police CP Baba Muhammad Azare, who presented the achievements during a press briefing at the command’s headquarters in Ikot Akpanabia, Uyo, described the state’s security landscape as “generally peaceful, calm and stable” despite persistent national challenges.

The successes, according to the CP, stemmed from a deliberate shift to intelligence-led policing, aggressive patrols, strategic personnel deployment, robust community cooperation, and seamless collaboration with other security agencies.

Key operational highlights included:

– Rescue of 74 human trafficking victims — all reunited with their families

– Rescue of 10 kidnapped persons

– Recovery of 179 assorted arms

– Seizure of 323 rounds of ammunition** and 100 live cartridges

Azare emphasized that these recoveries have significantly disrupted criminal networks operating within and across state borders.

With the festive season underway, the command has already ramped up security measures, including intensified stop-and-search operations, increased visible patrols, and targeted deployments across all 31 local government areas to guarantee a hitch-free Christmas and New Year celebrations.

Looking to 2026, CP Azare outlined a forward-leaning agenda: deeper intelligence-driven crime prevention, intensified crackdowns on violent crimes, cultism, armed robbery, and kidnapping, as well as renewed emphasis on community policing to strengthen public trust.

The command also plans to sharpen its response to emerging threats such as cybercrime and the proliferation of fake news, working closely with sister agencies to stay ahead of sophisticated criminal tactics.

In closing, the Commissioner expressed gratitude to the Inspector-General of Police for “purposeful leadership and unwavering support,” and commended the Akwa Ibom State Government for its consistent logistical and financial backing.

The 2025 figures represent a clear upward trajectory in operational effectiveness for the Akwa Ibom Police Command — a performance that residents and stakeholders will hope translates into even greater safety and stability in the year ahead.

Breaking: Kano Police Foil Mob Attack, Rescue Blasphemy Suspect from Angry Crowd

By
Ola Akinola
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0

In a tense but decisive operation, security operatives in Kano on Monday successfully rescued a man from an enraged mob that had gathered to attack him over alleged blasphemous remarks made inside a hotel in the Badawa area of the metropolis.

Eyewitnesses reported that the incident escalated rapidly after the suspect’s words — deemed deeply offensive to religious sensibilities — triggered outrage among residents. Within minutes, a large crowd had converged on the hotel premises, intent on taking matters into their own hands.

Quick intervention by police operatives prevented a potential lynching. The officers swiftly evacuated the suspect from the building under heavy security and whisked him to a safe location to avert further violence.

Confirming the development, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Kano State Command, DSP Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa, said: “Yes, it is true. The suspect is in police custody and investigation is ongoing.”

Kiyawa declined to release the suspect’s identity or provide specifics about the alleged remarks, but assured the public that a thorough probe was underway. He appealed for calm, urging residents to allow the police to handle the matter professionally and avoid taking the law into their own hands.

The incident comes amid recurring flashpoints over blasphemy allegations in parts of northern Nigeria, where such cases have historically led to mob violence and vigilante justice when security response is perceived as slow. Monday’s swift action by the Kano police is likely to be viewed as a critical test of the Command’s ability to maintain order and uphold due process in a highly charged atmosphere.

The suspect remains in protective custody as investigations continue. Authorities have yet to indicate whether formal charges have been filed.

2026 Budget: Oyo Speaker Ogundoyin Lauds Timely Assent, Praises Uncommon Legislative-Executive Harmony

By
Ola Akinola
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0

In a display of institutional maturity rarely seen across Nigerian states, Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, has hailed Governor Seyi Makinde’s prompt signing of the 2026 Appropriation Bill into law, describing the swift process as clear proof of the “seamless synergy” between the legislature and the executive in the state.

The budget assent ceremony, held at the Executive Council Chambers in Ibadan, came just days after the House passed the ₦892 billion fiscal plan, allowing the state to commence implementation from January 1, 2026 — a timeline that positions Oyo among the few states likely to start the new year with full financial authority in place.

“This budget signing ceremony signifies yet another milestone in our shared commitment to building a more prosperous Oyo State,” Ogundoyin said. “It is also a testament to the strong collaboration and understanding between the Executive and the 10th Assembly. We have again proven that governance in Oyo State is result-driven and people-focused.”

The Speaker singled out key priority areas in the budget — infrastructure, education, healthcare, and environmental sustainability — expressing confidence that the allocations would translate into visible developmental projects across all three senatorial districts and 33 local government areas.

He thanked his colleagues for their dedication during the review and passage process, while reaffirming the Assembly’s resolve to carry out rigorous oversight. “As representatives of the people, we will ensure that every kobo appropriated is spent judiciously,” he declared. “Our oversight functions will be intensified, and transparency and accountability will remain our watchwords.”

The statement also carried a strong note of institutional loyalty. Rt. Hon. Ogundoyin reiterated the 10th Assembly’s unwavering support for the Makinde-led administration, describing their partnership as one rooted in a common mandate to deliver dividends of democracy to the people of Oyo State.

The timely assent — coming in late December — stands in sharp contrast to the delays that have plagued budget implementation in several other states. Analysts attribute the smooth process in Oyo to the mutual respect and clear communication that have defined relations between the Makinde executive and the legislature since 2019.

For Governor Makinde, who has consistently prioritized fiscal discipline and early budget passage, the development offers a strong platform to sustain his signature projects in the final stretch of his second term.

As Oyo enters 2026 with budget authority secured, the real work now shifts to execution — and the Speaker has already signalled that the House will be watching closely to ensure the figures on paper become progress on the ground.

Tinubu Praises Fubara’s Leadership: NSA Delivers Message During Ogoni Peace Visit

By
Ola Akinola
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0

In a strong show of federal endorsement amid ongoing efforts to heal decades-old wounds in Ogoniland, National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu has conveyed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s personal satisfaction with Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s leadership, particularly his role in facilitating talks on resuming oil exploration in the long-contested region.

The message came during a high-profile courtesy visit to the Rivers State Government House in Port Harcourt on Monday, December 22, 2025, where Ribadu led a presidential delegation that included Minister of Works Senator David Umahi, Minister of Environment Balarabe Lawal, and top officials from the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL).

Ribadu described Rivers as one of Nigeria’s most peaceful states, crediting Fubara’s “responsible and effective” style for creating the enabling environment. He revealed that President Tinubu specifically directed him to thank the governor for coordinating the sensitive Ogoni dialogue process, which could pave the way for renewed oil activities after over three decades of suspension due to environmental devastation, community unrest, and the legacy of the 2011 UNEP report.

The delegation’s visit underscores a multi-pronged federal strategy: consolidating peace, accelerating environmental remediation, and delivering tangible infrastructure dividends to build trust. Ribadu emphasized that a “new chapter” is unfolding in Ogoni, with Nigeria’s broader transformation “starting from here.” He also extended Tinubu’s appreciation to the Ogoni people for their patience and cooperation.

Minister Umahi highlighted the strategic importance of the Ogoni peace initiative to national unity, reaffirming Tinubu’s personal commitment to Niger Delta welfare. He announced accelerated timelines for key road projects:

– The 15-kilometre Eleme axis of the East–West Road in Ogoniland, valued at over ₦200 billion, features five flyovers (one contributed by the Rivers State Government) and is slated for completion by April 2026.

– Designs are underway — with presidential approval — to dualise the Bonny–Bodo Road from its starting point to connect with the East–West Road, including two additional flyovers. (This follows the temporary opening of the 37.9-km Bodo–Bonny Road in early December 2025, which ended years of reliance on river crossings for Bonny Island residents.)

– President Tinubu has ordered a redesign of the ambitious Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway to route through Ogoniland, ensuring the mega-project directly benefits the area.

These infrastructure gains align with the governor’s efforts to restore ease of movement along the East–West Road, linking Bonny and Bayelsa, and rebuilding regional confidence.

On the environmental front, Minister Lawal reaffirmed that the Ogoni clean-up — managed by the Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP) — remains a top priority. Progress includes ongoing mangrove restoration (reported at high completion rates in recent HYPREP updates), shoreline remediation, healthcare delivery, human capital development, and women empowerment programmes, all drawn from UNEP recommendations.

NNPCL Group Chief Executive Officer Bayo Ojulari reinforced the shift in focus “from oil to people,” pledging full commitment to the dialogue. He disclosed that the recruitment of 30 Ogoni indigenes into NNPCL has reached the final stage, with appointment letters issued and resumption set for January 2026 — a concrete step toward local inclusion.

In response, Governor Fubara expressed profound gratitude to President Tinubu, describing the intervention as proof of genuine love for Rivers State. He acknowledged the complexity of resolving a 30-year crisis but stressed that the president’s actions have restored connectivity and hope. Fubara pledged to sustain the peace process, manage emerging conflicts, and urged Ogoni leaders to engage youths in allowing access for repairs to faulty oil facilities — a preventive measure against new spills during remediation.

The visit arrives at a pivotal moment: HYPREP’s recent scorecards (July–December 2025) highlight major milestones in remediation, with plans for over 1,500 direct jobs from mangrove and shoreline projects in 2026, plus skills training for more than 2,000 youths and women. The Ogoni process is increasingly positioned as a national model for reconciliation, environmental justice, and inclusive development.

Whether this momentum translates into full oil resumption without reigniting old tensions will depend on sustained dialogue, transparent implementation, and community buy-in. For now, the federal show of force — and explicit praise for Fubara — sends a clear signal: Abuja sees Rivers, and particularly Ogoni, as ground zero for a renewed Niger Delta. The stakes are high, but so is the promised payoff.

Akpabio Ignites Fresh Hope for Ibadan State

By
Ola Akinola
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0

Senate President Endorses Demand During Symbolic Visit to Olubadan

In a development that has re-energised long-standing agitation for the creation of Ibadan State, Senate President Godswill Akpabio has described the demand as “legitimate and popular,” assuring stakeholders that the matter will receive serious attention on the floor of the National Assembly.

The high-powered endorsement came on Sunday during a courtesy visit to the private residence of the newly installed 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Adewolu Ladoja, at Bodija, Ibadan. Accompanied by a delegation of senior senators — including Adamu Aliero, Yahaya Abdullahi, and Sarafadeen Ali — Akpabio delivered what many in Oyo State are interpreting as the strongest signal yet from the 10th Senate on the viability of carving out a new state from the present Oyo.

“Ibadan is an incoming state,” Akpabio declared bluntly. “It is one of the states whose creation is being demanded by the people.” He added that the issue would be thoroughly examined when constitutional amendment processes resume.

The visit carried extra symbolic weight given the timing: it came barely weeks after Oba Ladoja’s coronation and his public reiteration of the Ibadan State demand during his installation ceremony, where he personally presented the request to President Bola Tinubu.

Oba Ladoja wasted no time in using the occasion to press home the agitation. “My subjects have given me the mandate to represent their interests on all issues, including the creation of Ibadan State,” the monarch said. “I placed this request before President Bola Tinubu during my installation ceremony, and I am repeating it today. My people want Ibadan State, and I appeal to you to use your office to ensure its actualisation.”

The Olubadan also broadened his appeal, calling for constitutional safeguards to protect traditional rulers from arbitrary removal by state governors. “If there is a need to amend the constitution, it should be done to strengthen and protect the traditional institution,” he urged.

Akpabio, in turn, showered praise on the monarch, describing Oba Ladoja — a former senator and governor of Oyo State — as “a blessing not only to Ibadanland but to the entire South-West region.” He highlighted the monarch’s track record as a nationalist, politician, entrepreneur, and administrator, predicting that his reign would bring “remarkable progress” and “innovation” to the traditional institution.

The Senate President’s choice of words — “Ibadan is an incoming state” — is likely to be seized upon by pro-Ibadan State campaigners as the most explicit backing the cause has received from the leadership of the National Assembly in recent years.

For context, the agitation for Ibadan State dates back decades, rooted in the city’s historical size, population density, economic weight, and sense of marginalisation within the larger Oyo State structure. Proponents argue that Ibadan, one of Nigeria’s most populous and culturally significant cities, deserves statehood in its own right, with the proposed capital at Ibadan itself.

Yet the path to state creation remains notoriously difficult. Any new state would require a constitutional amendment — a process that demands two-thirds approval in both chambers of the National Assembly and ratification by at least two-thirds of state Houses of Assembly nationwide — a high bar that has frustrated similar demands in the past.

Akpabio’s visit and endorsement, however, inject fresh political momentum at a time when the Tinubu administration has signalled openness to constitutional reforms in other areas. Whether that openness extends to the politically sensitive question of new states — especially one that would alter the balance of power in the South-West — remains to be seen.

For now, the Senate President has raised expectations sky-high. Ibadan’s advocates are already framing Sunday’s encounter as a turning point: the day the number three citizen in the land publicly declared their dream state “incoming.”

The real test will come when the constitutional amendment process formally begins. Until then, Ibadan watches, waits — and hopes.

My Loyalty Is 100%: Reinstated FCT Education Secretary Returns with Vows of Discipline

By
Toyin Adebayo
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0

In a carefully choreographed return to office, Dr. Danlami Hayyo, Mandate Secretary of the Federal Capital Territory Education Secretariat, has used his first public appearance since reinstatement to pledge absolute loyalty to FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, announce a fresh wave of internal reforms, and attempt to reassure anxious parents that all public schools in the territory remain safe.

Speaking shortly after resuming duties, Hayyo framed his comeback as divine vindication and ministerial mercy. “I thank God Almighty for vindicating me over the last incident,” he said. “I also sincerely thank the Honourable Minister of the FCT, Barrister Nyesom Wike, who understood the situation and reinstated me. My loyalty to the Honourable Minister is 100 per cent.”

The “last incident” — widely understood to involve the unauthorized issuance and circulation of sensitive administrative decisions by a director without clearance from the Mandate Secretary or the Minister — was never explicitly detailed in the statement. Hayyo, however, used the episode as the springboard for his first major reform announcement: mandatory refresher training for all directors, including newly appointed ones.

“The first thing we will do is embark on refresher training for directors,” he declared. “They must clearly understand their mandates, responsibilities and the limits of their authority.” The message was unmistakable: no more rogue memos, no more freelance decisions. Going forward, every significant action must pass through the Mandate Secretary and ultimately receive the Minister’s blessing.

On the issue that most directly concerns parents — school safety — Hayyo offered a blanket assurance. “All FCT schools are very safe,” he stated categorically. “Issues of security are handled directly by security agencies such as the police and other services, who constantly brief the Minister. We only provide advice where necessary.”

The Mandate Secretary also rolled out an impressive scorecard of infrastructure investment under the current administration. He disclosed that approximately 26 per cent of the FCT’s capital budget from 2023 to date has been channelled into education — a figure that aligns with international benchmarks for social sector spending. Over 100 schools have either been renovated or are currently under renovation, with 60–70 per cent of these projects expected to be completed by the first quarter of 2026, paving the way for a high-profile commissioning ceremony by the Minister.

Hayyo linked the massive rehabilitation effort directly to improved student outcomes, pointing to FCT students’ growing success in national and international competitions, including robotics and artificial intelligence contests abroad. “The transformation of schools has a direct relationship with improved academic performance,” he said. “Today, FCT students are competing and winning internationally.”

He urged media houses and analysts to judge academic results in proper context, taking into account student population size and the quality of facilities. “FCT schools remain among the best-equipped and best-performing in the country,” he insisted.

The combination of personal loyalty declaration, internal discipline push, safety reassurance, and infrastructure boasts presents a clear picture: the Education Secretariat under Dr. Hayyo intends to project unity, competence, and forward momentum — all firmly under the minister’s command.

Whether the promised refresher courses translate into genuine administrative rigor, whether school safety assurances hold firm amid the country’s broader security challenges, and whether the wave of renovations will indeed deliver lasting academic gains will be the real tests in the coming year.

For now, the Mandate Secretary has made his position crystal clear: he is back, he is loyal, and he intends to run a tight, minister-approved ship.

Tinubu Administration Declares kidnappers, bandits, and other violent armed groups as terrorists

By
Ola Akinola
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0

In a bold escalation of Nigeria’s long-running battle against insecurity, the Federal Government has officially classified kidnappers, bandits, and other violent armed groups as terrorists — a move that strips away years of euphemistic language and promises a more aggressive, no-holds-barred response.

The announcement came during the end-of-year press conference in Abuja on Monday, where Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris delivered the administration’s position with unmistakable clarity. “Let me be clear about what this means: That henceforth, any armed group that kidnaps our children, attacks our farmers, or terrorizes our communities is officially classified and will be dealt with as a terrorist organization. The era of ambiguous nomenclature is over!”

The declaration builds on earlier statements by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during his presentation of the 2026 budget to the National Assembly on December 19, where he outlined a sweeping new national counterterrorism doctrine. That framework, established in 2025, rests on **four critical pillars**: unified command, intelligence, community stability, and counterinsurgency.

Under this restructured approach, the government is no longer treating mass abductions, rural raids, and forest-based criminal syndicates as isolated law-and-order issues. Instead, bandits, militias, armed gangs, violent cult groups, forest hideout operators, and even foreign-linked mercenaries — along with their financiers, informants, and political enablers — will face the full weight of counterterrorism operations.

The shift carries significant operational implications. It expands the legal and tactical toolkit available to security forces, potentially allowing for broader intelligence-sharing, faster prosecutions under anti-terror laws, and deployment of specialized units like the newly announced forest guards to flush out hideouts in remote areas.

Idris emphasized that the policy is already showing results: coordinated efforts in 2025 led to the capture of two internationally wanted criminals, including a high-profile ISWAP leader residing in Nigeria — a figure with a substantial U.S. bounty — who is now facing trial.

The timing of the announcement, just days before Christmas and amid ongoing releases of abducted schoolchildren (including a recent group from Niger State), underscores the administration’s determination to project resolve during a period of heightened public anxiety over insecurity. It also aligns with massive security allocations in the proposed 2026 budget — N5.41 trillion earmarked for defence and security — signaling that resources will match the rhetoric.

Yet the move raises inevitable questions about implementation. Previous designations of groups as terrorists have not always translated into decisive victories on the ground, and critics may argue that re-labeling alone does not address root causes such as poverty, weak governance in rural areas, or the proliferation of small arms.

For now, however, the message from the Tinubu administration is unequivocal: the days of treating kidnappers and bandits with kid gloves are over. As Idris put it, if you terrorize Nigerian communities, you are a terrorist — no exceptions, no more ambiguity.

Whether this doctrinal reset delivers the promised safer Nigeria in 2026 will be the true measure of its success. In the meantime, the forest guards are mobilizing, intelligence networks are sharpening, and criminal elements have been put on notice: the era of operating under softer labels has ended.

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