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Tinubu to Visit Benue Wednesday Over Killings, Urges National Unity

Toyin Adebayo
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Tinubu to Visit Benue Wednesday Over Killings, Urges National Unity

…As President Commissions Abuja Water Project, Lauds Wike’s Leadership

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced plans to visit Benue State on Wednesday, June 18, to commiserate with victims and families affected by the recent wave of violent attacks that claimed several lives. Speaking in Abuja on Monday during the commissioning of the Greater Abuja Water Supply Project, Tinubu described the killings as a painful tragedy and emphasized the need for unity, mutual understanding, and peace across the country.

“I sympathize with the people of Benue. I have spoken to the Governor, the leadership, and the people. I will adjust my schedule and go to Benue on Wednesday,” President Tinubu stated, before calling for a minute’s silence in honour of the victims. “We are one single, huge family living in the same house, staying in different rooms. Living together in harmony must be the result of our diversity for prosperity. We must consciously learn to live together and build trust, no matter the difficulty,” he said.

The President made these remarks while inaugurating the Greater Abuja Water Supply Project, a major capital project designed to extend potable water to underserved areas through Loops 1, 2, 5, and 6 of the Federal Capital Territory’s water distribution network. Commending the FCT Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, for his results-driven leadership, Tinubu said: “Thank you, Wike, for exhibiting the great virtue of leadership—being conscious of the needs of the people and committing to deliver on them.” In his response, Wike reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to equity through infrastructure delivery. “This water project is not just a technical achievement; it is about reaching the people who have long been neglected. For years, our people have struggled to get clean water. Today, we have changed that narrative,” Wike said, pledging continued action on roads, health, and education to reflect the Renewed Hope Agenda in the FCT.

Wike Mocks 2027 Political Coalitions: “Born and Dead Same Day”

Toyin Adebayo
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Wike Mocks 2027 Political Coalitions: “Born and Dead Same Day”

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Nyesom Wike, has taken a swipe at emerging political movements eyeing the 2027 general elections, describing them as unstable coalitions that “were born and died the same day.” Speaking at the commissioning of the long-awaited Apo-Wasa road on Friday, Wike used the platform to dismiss critics and opposition figures while reaffirming the Tinubu administration’s focus on real development rather than political theatrics.

“Up till now, they haven’t even settled among themselves. Which coalition are they talking about—the left or the right? These are coalitions that were born and died the same day,” Wike said to an enthusiastic crowd. He cautioned residents of the FCT against being swayed by political actors who have neither records of performance nor credibility, urging them instead to align with those who deliver results. “You allowed outsiders to deceive you for years. Now, the man who promised and delivered this road is here, yet you’re listening to people whose names may not even make it to the ballot.”

Wike didn’t mince words in calling out political actors who failed to protect their previous administrations but are now attempting to rewrite history. “If you didn’t defend your boss when you had the chance, that’s your failure. You sat back and watched your government collapse. Me—I will defend mine. And I have the capacity to do so,” he stated defiantly.

Addressing criticisms surrounding the naming of completed projects after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Senate President Godswill Akpabio, the FCT Minister said the decisions were deliberate and justifiable. “If I gave it to you, would you be happy? Of course not. You go on television and lie every day. But when it’s my turn, I will do it my way,” Wike said.

With the 17-day commissioning exercise in full swing, Wike declared that the momentum for infrastructure delivery in the FCT is unstoppable. “We are not tired. Abuja is working again. If you love this city, come and see it for yourself. If you don’t, stay blind. But know this—we are here to deliver, not to please,” he said.

Rounding off his address with a political message ahead of 2027, Wike made a bold pledge to return and hold voters accountable: “Come 2027, I will come back. And I will say you promised me, I delivered. Now give me. That’s politics. That’s life.”

“Ground Rent Critics, Come and See What Your Money Has Done” — Wike Declares at Apo-Wassa Road Commissioning

Toyin Adebayo
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“Ground Rent Critics, Come and See What Your Money Has Done” — Wike Declares at Apo-Wassa Road Commissioning

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Nyesom Wike, on Friday threw down the gauntlet to critics of the FCT Administration’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) reforms, particularly those who opposed ground rent payments, by inviting them to witness the results of their contributions. Speaking during the commissioning of the newly completed 15-kilometre Apo-Wassa dual carriageway, Wike said the project was a testament to what strategic use of revenue could achieve.

“To those always shouting ‘Ground Rent! Ground Rent!’ come and see what your ground rent has done. This is 15 kilometers of economic opportunity unlocked,” Wike said to thunderous applause from residents, traditional leaders, and stakeholders. “You no longer have to crowd into the city centre to enjoy good roads or fast access. From Ketti to the Central Area now takes just 10 minutes. That’s what integrated development looks like.”

The newly completed road—cutting through challenging terrain including over 500 metres of solid rock—connects Apo to Wassa, linking surrounding satellite towns such as Takushara, Ketti, and Kabusa. Wike said the infrastructure upgrade had significantly reduced travel time, improved safety, and spurred commercial activity, noting, “This place used to be a nightmare. Ask anyone who passed through here. Now it’s a corridor of transformation.”

He emphasized that the progress being recorded under his leadership was not accidental but the result of unwavering political support from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. “You can be given an office, but without support, you’ll only sit there doing nothing. Mr. President gave us the responsibility and the backing—and that’s why today, we’re delivering,” Wike said. “Support isn’t dashed out. You earn it. If you want it, go and work for it.”

Taking a swipe at critics who accuse the administration of media theatrics, Wike reiterated that his focus was on completion, not ceremony. “This is not about calling cameras to show where a project may start. This is about showing you what we’ve completed. We are not here to flag off. We are here to commission,” he declared, referring to the ongoing 17 days of consecutive project inaugurations across the territory.

He further challenged doubters to take a personal tour of Wassa Junction and its environs. “Go and see with your own eyes. If you still don’t believe it, then choose to remain blind—but don’t mislead others,” he warned. Wike noted that many of the satellite communities now connected by this road had long been sidelined in previous administrations, but that era of neglect was over.

The Minister extended his appreciation to the National Assembly leadership for their pivotal role in approving FCT budgetary allocations. “Without their legislative backing, timely funding of projects like this would be impossible. We thank them for believing in what we’re doing and ensuring that development doesn’t get lost in bureaucracy,” he said.

Wike concluded his remarks with a rallying call to residents to focus on visible results, not political distractions. “This road you see here today is funded by the resources we generated internally—the same ground rent people complain about. That’s how governance works. You pay your dues, and you get results. That’s what we’ve done,” he said, promising that the administration was just getting started. “Today it’s Apo-Wassa. Tomorrow it’s another. Seventeen days of delivery is not a fluke—it’s a commitment.”

TINUBU APPLAUDS FCT INFRASTRUCTURE STRIDES, SAYS “LEGACY, NOT CRITICISM, WILL DEFINE WIKE”

Toyin Adebayo
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TINUBU APPLAUDS FCT INFRASTRUCTURE STRIDES, SAYS “LEGACY, NOT CRITICISM, WILL DEFINE WIKE”

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has applauded the accelerating pace and impressive quality of infrastructure development in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), stating that the legacy of Minister Nyesom Wike will be measured not by his response to critics, but by the visible transformation under his watch.

Speaking through Senate President Godswill Akpabio at the commissioning of the newly completed Left-Hand Service Carriageway of the Outer Southern Expressway (OSEX) Stage II—from Ring Road I to Wasa Junction—President Tinubu urged Wike to stay focused. “The President told you yesterday, do not mind those who are criticizing you. Remain focused on the country to deliver,” Akpabio said. “Nobody will remember you for how you answered your critics. They will remember you for the legacies that you are leaving behind. And we are seeing the legacy.”

Visibly impressed by the project, Akpabio remarked that even the blind could feel the impact of the road. “Even the blind walking through this Wasa Road will know Nigeria is indeed working. If they were the ones (your critics), they would have seen. But because it is you, they choose to remain blind,” he said, noting that the expressway is now a benchmark for how modern urban infrastructure should serve growing communities.

The 15-kilometre stretch, constructed by CCECC Nigeria Limited, forms part of the Tinubu administration’s broader national infrastructure renewal plan. The road connects key districts such as Wasa, Apo, Gudu, and parts of Lokogoma—facilitating mobility, safety, and economic activity. “This infrastructure fully demonstrates our commitment to sustainable urban development, enhanced mobility, and improved quality of life for FCT residents and Nigerians at large,” Akpabio stated, while commending Wike and his team for reviving long-abandoned projects with “discipline, quality, and speed.”

In his address, FCT Minister Barr. Nyesom Wike emphasized the difference between mere political gestures and actual governance, stating: “Let it be clear—we’re not flagging off projects. We’re commissioning completed ones. There’s a big difference.” He took a jab at critics who, he said, ignore the wave of transformation happening across Abuja.

Wike defended the decision to rename the International Conference Centre (ICC) after President Tinubu, saying those opposed to the move are simply politically mischievous. “Someone said we didn’t name it after the person who built it. Did Nnamdi Azikiwe build the airport? Did Moshood Abiola build the stadium named after him? People just talk for talking’s sake,” he quipped.

Delivering the vote of thanks, Minister of State for the FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, expressed deep appreciation to President Tinubu for his unwavering support for infrastructure renewal under the Renewed Hope Agenda. She said the newly completed carriageway was not just a road but a symbol of Nigeria’s journey toward inclusive development. “This project improves mobility and opens new economic doors for the people of Abuja,” she said.

Dr. Mahmoud also commended Minister Wike for his bold leadership and praised the contractors, engineers, and local communities for their professionalism and cooperation. “Let us take pride in this accomplishment—not just as a completed road, but as another step toward a stronger, more prosperous nation under the visionary leadership of President Tinubu,” she concluded.

“I Have Land to Bury Critics” — Wike Slams Detractors at Road Commissioning

Toyin Adebayo
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“I Have Land to Bury Critics” — Wike Slams Detractors at Road Commissioning

In a bold and blistering rebuke to his critics, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, on Friday declared, “I have land to bury critics,” while commissioning the newly completed Apo-Wassa Road — a major access route under the Outer Southern Expressway (OSEX) in Abuja.

Speaking during the high-profile ceremony, Wike dismissed attacks on the administration’s aggressive infrastructure push, stating unequivocally that no amount of “petty politics or social media noise” will derail the Renewed Hope Agenda championed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. “If you want to die because we named the refurbished International Conference Centre after Mr. President, go and die. I have land to bury you,” he said to thunderous applause.

He added that those who refuse to acknowledge the progress being made in the FCT are simply blinded by political bitterness. “If you cannot commend someone who has done well for the country, then the problem is yours. This is not about sentiments. We are delivering real development,” Wike stated, noting that critics deliberately choose to ignore the visible transformation happening across the capital city.

Wike said criticism was not unexpected in politics, but he drew the line at deliberate falsehoods. “Yes, we are politicians and criticism is part of the game. But that doesn’t mean you should lie or pretend not to see what is obvious. If God gave you eyes and you still choose not to see, then remain blind. It’s your choice,” he said, taking a swipe at what he described as dishonest, agenda-driven commentary.

He also challenged critics of the newly renovated International Conference Centre (ICC), urging them to consider the difference in value and infrastructure costs between 1991 and the current realities. “This is not 1991. The economy, materials, and labor costs have changed. But they pretend not to know — just to play politics,” Wike said, insisting that the ICC refurbishment was not only justified but long overdue.

The Apo-Wassa Road, a 15-kilometer project, is one of several long-abandoned projects revived under Wike’s tenure. The Minister said the road will drastically reduce travel time, link underserved communities like Wassa, Ketti, Kabusa, and Takushara, and open up economic opportunities across the city’s southern corridor.

ADDRESS BY PRESIDENT BOLA AHMED TINUBU, GCFR AT THE JOINT SESSION OF THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY IN COMMEMORATION OF DEMOCRACY DAY, 2025

Uche Kingsley
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ADDRESS BY PRESIDENT BOLA AHMED TINUBU, GCFR AT THE JOINT SESSION OF THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY IN COMMEMORATION OF DEMOCRACY DAY, 2025

ADDRESS BY PRESIDENT BOLA AHMED TINUBU, GCFR
AT THE JOINT SESSION OF THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY IN COMMEMORATION OF
DEMOCRACY DAY, 2025

THURSDAY, 12TH JUNE 2025

Protocol:

With profound honour, I stand before this joint session of our National Assembly; a parliament that embodies the will of the Nigerian people.

2. Today, as I entered this grand edifice built from the sweat and toil of our democratic yearning, my heart stirred. It was a blend of accomplishment and resolve.

3. I felt a sense of collective accomplishment when I realised how far we
had come as a nation. Since 1999, democracy has risen from the ashes and
destitution of military rule to take its rightful place as the only mode of
governance of our resilient and beloved people.

4. With every footstep I took through these hallowed halls up to the
moment I now stand before you, I remembered that we still have much
further to go.

5. To achieve this progress, we sought an elective office to lead this
nation forward. Thus, I hereby affirm before our Merciful and Almighty God
and all men my resolve to do all that I can to safeguard and build our
democracy as the Divine hand intends for us to do.

6. Since 2018, we have celebrated Democracy Day on this day; to
commemorate the sacrifices of the men and women who fought to restore
democratic governance to Nigeria.

7. Let me pay tribute to former President Muhammadu Buhari for
reaching back into history to rectify a national misdeed by making June 12
Democracy Day and by officially acknowledging Chief Moshood Kashimawo
Olawale Abiola and his running mate, Babagana Kingibe, as the victors and
thus duly elected President and Vice President respectively of Nigeria after
the June 12, 1993 elections.

8. Year by year, election after election, every time we debate instead of
battle, discuss instead of fight, and argue instead of destroy, we preserve
the institutions of democracy. More importantly, we weave the culture of
democracy into the very fabric of our nation.

9. Whilst Chief MKO Abiola is June 12’s central figure, we must not forget
the long list of those who equally deserve to be called heroes of Nigerian
democracy.
10. We must celebrate the courage of Alhaja Kudirat Abiola and Pa Alfred
Rewane, both of whom were murdered by agents of military repression. We
also remember the many civil rights activists, journalists, and politicians
imprisoned, exiled, tossed aside, tortured and beaten by the military regime.

11. We remember Chief Anthony Enahoro, Commodore Dan Suleiman,
Chief Abraham Adesanya, Ayo Adebanjo, Chief Gani Fawehinmi, Balarabe
Musa, Ganiyu Dawodu, the journalist Bagauda Kaltho, and Commodore
Ndubuisi Kanu. I mention these names not to exclude or degrade the
profound contributions of anyone else, but to illustrate, through these few
heroes, the universality of our pursuit of democracy.

12. The struggle was never the province of any one group or section of the
country, it was pan-Nigerian in its conception and will be even more pan-
Nigerian as we strive to perfect it.

13. It is fitting that I come to this chamber. You are the authors of the
people’s law, and I must be their faithful implementer. While we may not
always agree, we must forge a way to work together because this is what
democracy demands of us. I pledge myself to this cooperation and ask that
you do the same for the good of our people.

14. Mr. Chairman, the National Assembly has acted to uphold democratic
ideals at every critical moment in our national history. In 2006, the 5th
National Assembly protected our democracy against an unseemly third-term
bid that would have ripped our constitution apart. In 2010, the National
Assembly, through the doctrine of necessity, opened the door for then-Vice
President Goodluck Jonathan to become the acting President following the
illness of his predecessor.

15. Even under the military, the National Assembly tried to protect our
democracy. After General Abacha took over power on November 17, 1993,
and dissolved the National Assembly, some of us, led by Senator Ameh
Ebute, the Senate President in the 3rd Republic, defied the General and his
goons to reconvene in the Old Parliament Building in Lagos. We were jailed
for our defiance.

16. On behalf of a grateful nation, I commend your invaluable role in
lawmaking, oversight, and constituency representation.

17. At this point, I plead for your indulgence so that I may put a terrible rumour to bed.

18. To those who ring the alarm that the APC is intent on a one-party state,
I offer you a most personal promise. While your alarm may be as a result of
your panic, it rings in error. At no time in the past, nor any instance in the
present, and at no future juncture shall I view the notion of a one-party state
as good for Nigeria. I have never attempted to alter any political party
registration with INEC. Equally, my friends, we cannot blame anybody
seeking to bail out of a sinking ship even without a life jacket.

19. Look at my political history. I would be the last person to advocate such
a scheme. In 2003, when the then-governing party tried to sweep the nation
clean of political opposition through plot and manipulation, I was the last of
the progressive governors standing in my region.

20. In all their numbers and false grandeur, they boasted of ruling, not
governing, Nigeria for the next half century or more. Where are they now?

21. Yet, I stood alone. My allies had been induced into defeat. My
adversaries held all the cards that mortal man could carry. Even with all of
that, they could not control our national destiny because fate is written from
above. A greater power did not want Nigeria to become a one-party state
back then. Nigeria will not become such a state now.

22. The failed effort to create a one-party state placed progressive political
forces on a trajectory to form the APC. It put me on the trajectory which has
brought me before you today. I dare not do such a favour to any political
adversary by repeating the same mistake of political overreach.

23. A one-party state is not in the offing. Nor should it ever be. That said,
we would be guilty of political malpractice if we closed the door on those from
other parties who now seek to join the APC and I sincerely welcome our
party’s newest members from Delta and Akwa Ibom States led by Governor
Sheriff Oborevwori and Pastor Umo Eno and other members of this National
Assembly.

24. Political parties fearful of members leaving may be better served by
examining their internal processes and affairs rather than fearfully conjuring
up demons that do not exist. For me, I would say try your best to put your
house in order. I will not help you do so. It is, indeed, a pleasure to witness
you in such disarray.

25. We must welcome and accept the diversity and number of political
parties just as we welcome and embrace the diversity of our population. Our
efforts must never be to eliminate political competition but to make that
competition salutary to the national well-being by working across the political
aisle whenever possible.

26. One area in which democracy calls us to work together, whether in the
legislative or executive branch, whether in this or other political parties, is
that of economic and social development.

27. Upon assuming office, my team and I moved to reform our ailing
economy. We introduced fundamental reforms to correct structural
imbalances that prevented maximum growth.

28. We are already seeing results. GDP grew by 3.4 per cent in 2024, with
Q4 hitting 4.6 per cent, the highest quarter of growth in over a decade.
Inflation is easing gradually, steadying the price of food staples like rice and
beans. Our net foreign reserves have increased fivefold, and the Naira
exchange rate has stabilised. Our balance of payments position is positive;
our sovereign credit rating is improving as we continue to promote oil and
non-oil exports. States now do not need to go about borrowing to pay
salaries.

29. In less than one year, over one hundred thousand Nigerians, including thirty-five thousand civil servants, have benefited from affordable consumer credit through the Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation (CREDICORP), enabling them to purchase vehicles, light up and improve their homes and purchase life essentials. This July, we will launch a bold new initiative to empower four hundred thousand young Nigerians, including youth corpers, with consumer credit.

30. We are committed to giving more opportunities to young people through job creation and skills development. Through such programs as NELFUND, we are investing in education, vocational training, apprenticeships, and internships to ensure our youth are job-ready and
future-ready.

31. In addition, we have embarked on an ambitious project to lay fibre optic cables across the nation, a transformative step toward bridging the digital divide and fostering greater connectivity. This initiative promises not only to enhance the speed and reliability of internet access but also to revolutionize how businesses operate, how students learn, and how communities stay connected. By extending this critical infrastructure, we are empowering entrepreneurs, enabling digital education, and providing the tools for our youth to compete in a globalized world.

32. Our “Nigeria First” policy will further enhance progress as we consolidate market-driven growth. The improved economic performance is encouraging and validates the soundness of our policy measures. Our medium-term growth target remains an economy growing at a 7 per cent clip with a stronger manufacturing base. We must learn to produce and grow most of our food and we are on the path to achieving food sovereignty.

33. These and other reforms have placed the economy on a more rational footing where critical decisions regarding large-scale investment can now be made.

34. I ask you, the legislature, to join me as we enter the second half of our term to put forth innovative legislation that further encourages industrial development and job creation in our urban centres while also drafting laws that improve food security and production.

35. To further underpin our economic vision, we introduced a comprehensive Tax Reform Package, a vital component of our economic re- engineering. I am deeply grateful to both chambers for your thorough consideration and deliberation of these bills, and I look forward to signing them into law soon.

36. Again, your collaboration across party lines on these bills has been a model of democratic partnership.

37. As elected leaders, we must continue to do more to make real the dream of Nigeria’s political and economic democracy.

38. We must be vigilant in expanding the political space. We must always value dialogue over dictatorship, persuasion over suppression and rights over might. Be tolerant and broad-minded in your legislative action regarding speech and civil liberties.

39. Do not be afraid to hear an unkind word spoken against you. Some of the best advice a politician gets sometimes comes from his most ferocious opponents. We dare not seek silence because the imposed silence of repressed voices breeds chaos and ill will, not the harmonics of democracy in the long term.

40. While malicious slander and libel should not go unattended, no one should bear the brunt of injustice for merely writing a bad report about me or calling me names. Democracy requires a fair degree of tolerance for harsh words and stinging insults. Call me names, call me whatever you will, and I will still call upon democracy to defend your right to do so. Mr. Senate President, Mr. Speaker, Distinguished Senators and Honourable Members.

41. Our nation is not perfect, but it is strong. Our democracy is not invincible, but it is alive. And this means our dream of a prosperous, happy nation is still within reach and worth fighting for.

42. Mr. Chairman, Nigeria is at an inflexion point, undergoing structural and fundamental change toward a secure future.

43. Our administration is fully committed to boosting the economy’s productive base. Through investment in critical infrastructure, roads, expansion of port operations, rail, and power we are creating a new environment in which industry and manufacturing can thrive. Our tax and fiscal policy reforms will streamline tax administration and eliminate burdensome and multiple taxes enabling our industrialists and entrepreneurs to operate in a more conducive environment.

44. Governance must work and deliver value to the people. As part of our tax reforms, we have provided small businesses with an exemption and established the Office of the Tax Ombudsman to ensure transparency and protect taxpayer rights. Digital tools now help us track performance and reduce waste. The Diaspora Bond and Non-Resident BVN are bringing
Nigerians abroad into the national development fold.

45. In line with my promise during my New Year address to the nation, I recently appointed the board of directors of the newly established National Credit Guarantee Company. The company backed with 100 billion naira in initial capital; with BOI, which, by the way, is performing very well in supporting SMEs, NSIA, CreditCorp, and MOFI as stakeholders, will play a significant role in transforming the nation’s industrial landscape and reducing
corruption.

46. National Security is the foundation of peace and progress. We have intensified security operations to reclaim communities from criminals and terrorists. We are better at coordinating intelligence, and inter-agency cooperation has improved. Our highways are safer, and we invest in technology and training to secure every inch of this country.

47. Let us take this opportunity to thank the men and women of our Armed Forces for their bravery in service of the nation. Their selfless dedication to protecting our sovereignty and ensuring the safety of citizens should serve as an inspiration to us all. As we celebrate the progress of our democracy, we must not forget the pivotal role they play in safeguarding our freedoms. For their courage and commitment, they deserve not only our gratitude but
also our continued support, prayers and recognition.

48. Fellow compatriots, our achievements are not the work of one man. They are the result of a collective effort to make possible the Nigerian Dream. Yet, the journey is not over. We must work even harder to translate broad macroeconomic gains into tangible improvements in the lives of ordinary Nigerians. We must stay the course, reject cynicism, and believe Nigeria can and will rise again.

49. As we mark a twenty-sixth year of unbroken democracy, it is right to honour those who have made sacrifices in the past, braving all the odds and the guns to ensure we have a regime of democracy in our country.

50. In this light, I announce the conferment of the posthumous national honour of CFR on Kudirat Abiola, the heroine of the June 12 struggle.

51. I also confer posthumous national honours on Shehu Musa Yar’Adua (GCFR), Prof. Humphrey Nwosu (CON), Rear Admiral Ndubuisi Kanu (CON), Alhaji Balarabe Musa (CFR), Pa. Alfred Rewani (CFR), Bagauda Kaltho (OON), Chima Ubani (OON), Dr. Beko Ransome-Kuti (CON), Alao Aka Bashorun (CON), Chief Frank Kokori (CON), Emma Ezeazu (OON), Bamidele Aturu (OON), Fredrick Fasehun (CON), Professor Festus Iyayi (CON), Dr John Yima Sen (OON), Alhaja Sawaba Gambo (CON), Dr. Edwin Madunagu (CON), Dr. Alex Ibru (CON), Chief Bola Ige (CFR), Pa. Reuben Fasoranti (CFR), Sen. Ayo Fasanmi (CON), Sen. Polycarp Nwite (CON) and Dr. Nurudeen Olowopopo (CON).

52. I also confer national honours on Prof. Wole Soyinka (GCON), Prof. Olatunji Dare (CON), the journalist and journalism teacher; Kunle Ajibade (OON); Nosa Igiebor (OON), Dapo Olorunyomi (OON), Bayo Onanuga (CON), Ayo Obe (OON), Dare Babarinsa (CON), Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah (CON), Senator Shehu Sani (CON), Governor Uba Sani (CON), Barrister Femi Falana, SAN (CON), Prof. Shafideen Amuwo (CON), Barrister Luke Aghanenu (OON), Senator Tokunbo Afikuyomi (CON), Hon. Labaran Maku (OON), Dr. Tunji Alausa (CON), Mr Nick Dazang (OON), Hon Abdul Oroh (OON), Odia Ofeimun (CON), Seye Kehinde (OON), Barrister Felix Morka (CON) Barrister Ledum Mitee (CON), Hon. Olawale Osun (CON), Dr. Amos Akingba (CON), Prof. Segun Gbadegesin (CON), Mobolaji Akinyemi (CFR), Dr. Kayode Shonoiki (CON), Prof. Julius Ihonvbere (CON), Prof. Bayo Williams (CON), Sen. Abu Ibrahim (CFR), and Sen. Ame Ebute (CFR).

53. Additionally, I confer the national honour of CON on Uncle Sam Amuka Pemu, a legendary journalist and publisher who remains true to his lifetime calling as he marks his 90th birthday tomorrow, June 13.

54. Furthermore, I also confer posthumous national honours on Ken Saro Wiwa (CON), the leader of the Ogoni Nine and his fellow travellers, Saturday Dobee (OON), Nordu Eawo (OON), Daniel Gbooko (OON), Paul Levera (OON), Felix Nuate (OON), Baribor Bera (OON), Barinem Kiobel (OON), and John Kpuine (OON). I shall also be exercising my powers under the prerogative of mercy to grant these national heroes a full pardon, together with others whose names shall be announced later in conjunction with the National Council of State.

55. Finally, it is my great privilege to now decorate the presiding officers of the National Assembly with the National Honours earlier conferred upon them last year:

Presiding National Assembly Officers

Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio, GCON – SENATE PRESIDENT
Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, PhD, GCON – Speaker
Senator Jibrin Ibrahim Barau, CFR – DEPUTY SENATE PRESIDENT
Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, CFR – Deputy Speaker

56. In conclusion, let us rededicate ourselves to the ideals of June 12; freedom, transparent and accountable government, social justice, active citizen participation, and a just society where no one is oppressed.

57. Happy Democracy Day, and may God continue to bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria and protect our troops.

Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR
President, Commander-in-Chief of The Armed Forces,
Federal Republic of Nigeria

June 12 Gains Are Being Dismantled Before Our Eyes — Atiku

Toyin Adebayo
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June 12 Gains Are Being Dismantled Before Our Eyes — Atiku

…Says Tinubu’s Government Has Taken Nigeria to Its Lowest Democratic Point

By Samuel Ogidan, Abuja

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has expressed deep concern over what he described as the steady erosion of Nigeria’s democratic foundations under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

In his Democracy Day message on Wednesday, Atiku said the sacrifices that brought about the return to civilian rule in 1999 are being reversed by the current government, which he accused of exhibiting authoritarian tendencies and undermining democratic institutions.

“The gains of June 12 were hard-won. But sadly, the democratic promise that blossomed in 1999 is being steadily dismantled before our very eyes,” Atiku stated.

According to the former Vice President, Nigeria now stands at a crossroads, with the ruling party steadily replacing democracy with a “creeping one-party dictatorship.”

“Today, Nigeria teeters on the edge of a dangerous precipice. A creeping one-party dictatorship is replacing the democratic order we bled for. Those who laid down their lives for freedom did not do so for Nigerians to suffer under economic suffocation and political intimidation,” he said.

Atiku accused the APC-led government of consolidating power by silencing opposition voices and weaponizing state institutions.

“The ruling party and its federal government now govern with the unmistakable intent to dominate, subdue, and silence. Their tactics are not subtle. Opposition voices are being systematically erased,” he alleged.

He further criticized the awarding of major government contracts to individuals allegedly linked to the presidency, as well as the renaming of national institutions in honour of President Tinubu.

“Contracts for multi-billion-naira infrastructure projects are funnelled to cronies and family associates of the president. National institutions, once symbols of unity, are being brazenly renamed in honour of a sitting president — as though the country were a private estate,” he said. “What we are witnessing is not governance — it is conquest.”

Describing the current administration as the “lowest ebb” of Nigeria’s democratic journey, Atiku lamented that policies are no longer designed to empower citizens, but rather to instill fear and consolidate elite privilege.

“Institutional integrity has been compromised. The common Nigerian has been abandoned at the altar of elite comfort. And make no mistake: this is the antithesis of everything June 12 stands for,” he declared.

Atiku, a key figure in Nigeria’s democratic history, noted that the country is once again at a critical juncture — one that demands decisive action.

“We must choose: the path of democratic renewal or the dark alley of despotism,” he warned.

In what appeared to be a veiled reference to ongoing efforts to form a coalition ahead of the 2027 general elections, Atiku said the move is driven by moral duty rather than political ambition.

“The ongoing effort to build a broad, united opposition front is not about power for power’s sake. It is a moral imperative. It is about defending the legacy of June 12 and preventing the privatization of the Nigerian state,” he explained.

“This is not just a political contest; it is a moral crusade — a struggle to liberate our economy, our democracy, and our national dignity from the grip of authoritarian forces. And like every righteous struggle, it demands courage, clarity, and collective resolve.”

Atiku emphasized that the spirit of June 12 remains alive as long as injustice and oppression persist. “As long as oppression thrives, June 12 lives on — not just as memory, but as movement. The time to rise is now.”

Reflecting on the sacrifices made in the struggle for democracy, Atiku praised the resilience of the Nigerian people and paid tribute to fallen heroes of the June 12 movement.

“The political class made painful compromises, but it was the Nigerian people who bore the heaviest burden. I, too, made my fair share of sacrifices — notably stepping aside from my presidential ambition in deference to the late Chief MKO Abiola, a gesture made in faith and loyalty to a higher national purpose,” he recounted.

He also honoured the memories of iconic pro-democracy figures who paid the ultimate price: “The late Alhaja Kudirat Abiola, Tafida Shehu Musa Yar’Adua, Alfred Rewane — these brave souls gave their lives in pursuit of a freer Nigeria. Their memories are etched into our national conscience and must never be forgotten.”

As Nigeria marks over three decades since the historic June 12, 1993 election, Atiku’s remarks serve as both a warning and a rallying call to restore democratic ideals and resist authoritarian drift.

Wike’s Aide Hits Back at Dele Momodu Over June 12 Comment: Says Media Mogul Needs ‘Deliverance, Rehabilitation’

Toyin Adebayo
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Wike’s Aide Hits Back at Dele Momodu Over June 12 Comment: Says Media Mogul Needs ‘Deliverance, Rehabilitation’

The Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Lere Olayinka, has issued a sharp rebuttal to media personality Chief Dele Momodu over comments questioning the role of Minister Nyesom Wike in Nigeria’s June 12 democratic struggle.

Momodu, during a recent television interview, had taken aim at Wike, asking, “Where was Wike during the June 12 struggle? Who knew him then? Yet today, he speaks as though he was a founding father of democracy.”

Reacting, Olayinka fired back in a strongly worded statement, describing Momodu’s remarks as a product of “political psychosis” and alleging that the former presidential aspirant was “haunted by Wike’s presence, even in his dreams.”

“The mental case of the self-appointed PDP chieftain appears to have progressed from psychology to psychosis,” Olayinka said. “Dele Momodu is now seeing Wike’s spirit everywhere, and he urgently needs deliverance and rehabilitation.”

He further mocked Momodu’s political standing, pointing out that he secured no delegate votes during the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential primaries in 2022, and questioned his continued fixation on Wike.

“Was Wike responsible for that too? Or is this endless obsession a reflection of deeper frustration?” Olayinka queried.

On the June 12 issue, Olayinka accused Momodu of leveraging the historic struggle for personal gain, claiming that the media mogul used the movement as a means to flee the country.

“He didn’t fight for democracy—he only used June 12 as an opportunity to ‘japa’ and chase personal comfort abroad,” Olayinka alleged.

He also took a swipe at Momodu’s journalistic approach, stating that genuine June 12 activists did not glamorize military generals or their families in lifestyle publications.

“True June 12 heroes didn’t photograph generals for glossy magazines or use the children of Abiola’s jailer as models. That was Dele Momodu’s brand of activism,” he said.

Concluding, Olayinka cautioned Momodu against placing himself in the pantheon of Nigeria’s pro-democracy heroes.

“When the real roll call of June 12 heroes is made, opportunists and hustlers like Dele Momodu should respectfully stay off the list,” he said.

The heated exchange underscores ongoing political tensions within the PDP and the broader opposition landscape, as public discourse around historical legacies and future alignments gains momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections.

June 12: Good Governance is Democracy’s Bedrock — CAN President

Toyin Adebayo
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June 12: Good Governance is Democracy’s Bedrock — CAN President

As Nigeria commemorates the 2025 Democracy Day, the President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Archbishop Daniel Okoh, has reaffirmed that good governance remains the bedrock of a thriving democracy, calling on leaders across all tiers of government to prioritize transparency, accountability, and inclusive development.

In a statement released on Thursday to mark the anniversary of the historic June 12, 1993, presidential election, Archbishop Okoh described the day as “a beacon of hope and a reminder of our nation’s enduring democratic spirit.”

“Good governance is the cornerstone of any democracy,” the CAN President emphasized. “Nigeria’s abundant human and natural resources must be mobilized to tackle poverty, unemployment, and inequality, while investing in critical sectors like infrastructure, healthcare, and education.”

Archbishop Okoh urged Nigerians to foster unity, peace, and mutual respect, while warning against the growing threats of religious intolerance and insecurity that continue to challenge national stability.

“We must stand united against all forms of religious intolerance and violence,” he said. “It is the government’s sacred responsibility to safeguard religious freedom, ensure no citizen is persecuted for their faith, and secure justice for victims of religious violence.”

Raising alarm over the persistent insecurity across the country—including insurgency, banditry, and kidnappings—the CAN President called for urgent, sustained efforts to protect lives and property.

The Christian leader also pressed for comprehensive electoral reforms, urging the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to enhance electoral transparency and public trust in the democratic process.

“In a true democracy, citizens must enjoy the right to free speech, peaceful assembly, and press freedom,” he noted. “INEC must work diligently to ensure credibility in every electoral cycle.”

Archbishop Okoh encouraged the government to engage more constructively with the populace and pursue inclusive, people-centered solutions to the nation’s pressing challenges.

He further called on all Nigerians to remain committed to the ideals of democracy and nation-building, stating:
“Let us honor the sacrifices of our democratic heroes by building a just, inclusive, and prosperous Nigeria.”

The statement also acknowledged the continued efforts of security agencies, civil society organizations, faith groups, and everyday citizens who uphold the principles of democracy and unity.

As the nation reflects on more than three decades since the annulled 1993 election that has become a symbol of democratic aspiration, CAN’s message is a rallying call for deeper reforms to strengthen Nigeria’s democratic institutions and restore public confidence in governance.

Tinubu to Commission Key Abuja Highway Friday as Apo Traders Suspend Business

Toyin Adebayo
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0
Tinubu to Commission Key Abuja Highway Friday as Apo Traders Suspend Business

***Traffic Diversion Announced for Apo-Wasa Road During Ceremony

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will on Friday, June 13, commission the newly completed Left-Hand Service Carriageway of the Outer Southern Expressway (OSEX) Stage II, stretching from Ring Road I Junction to Wasa Junction in Abuja.

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) confirmed the commissioning ceremony will take place at 2:30 p.m., with the President expected to lead the high-profile event.

In preparation for the visit, the FCTA has announced a temporary closure of the Apo-Wasa Road from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., urging motorists to use alternative routes to avoid delays.

A statement issued by Lere Olayinka, Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media to the FCT Minister, emphasized that the traffic diversion is essential to ensure security and the smooth conduct of the commissioning.

In a gesture of support, traders, mechanics, and other business owners in the Apo Mechanic Village have voluntarily agreed to shut down their shops on Friday to welcome the President and participate in the event.

“The traders and mechanic associations have directed their members to close shops tomorrow and resume business on Saturday,” Olayinka stated.

Traffic officers will be stationed at strategic points to guide road users and minimize inconvenience. The FCTA has also appealed to residents for understanding during the temporary disruption.

“We plead with road users that will be affected by this temporary closure to bear with the government while using alternative routes,” the statement said.

The Apo-Wasa project is a major component of the Tinubu administration’s broader infrastructure agenda, aimed at improving road connectivity and easing congestion in the southern section of the Federal Capital Territory.

The commissioning marks yet another milestone in the FCT’s ongoing urban renewal and transportation upgrades under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

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