Chairman of the Rivers State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Tony Okocha, has described the decision of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governors to challenge the declaration of emergency rule in Rivers State at the Supreme Court as a welcome development that will enrich Nigeria’s jurisprudence.
Speaking at the APC National Secretariat in Abuja on Thursday, Okocha emphasized that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s decision to impose emergency rule in Rivers was necessary to prevent the state from descending into complete political anarchy.
He argued that without the intervention, Rivers residents would have been forced to live in constant fear due to escalating violence.
“I want to say to you that the State of Emergency called by Mr. President saved Rivers State from anarchy. Indeed, people like us could barely, hardly leave certain places where we hid for fear of the unknown. When you see non-state actors brandishing guns and making statements tailored toward anarchy and lawlessness, then you should know that there is a looming crisis,” Okocha said.
Judicial Precedent on Emergency Rule
Okocha welcomed the PDP governors’ decision to seek judicial interpretation, saying it would provide much-needed legal clarity on the suspension of the governor and Assembly members.
“What some people now say is that the suspension of the governor and Assembly members is wrong. Thank God that I hear that the PDP Governors’ Forum is approaching the Supreme Court. I’m sure you know that there has been no legislation whatsoever on the matter.
“Now that they have gone to the Supreme Court, whatever the outcome is, it will enrich our jurisprudence. I don’t want to take on individuals, but I hear the NBA has come out to say, ‘Oh, it’s an affront on democracy’ and all that.
“But when the Assembly Complex was pulled down, when it was bombed and equipment were destroyed, the NBA was alive, yet we didn’t hear anything from them. So one wonders why there is so much talk now. It’s good that they are approaching the court, and we should allow the Supreme Court to decide on the actions of Mr. President.”
Restoring Security and Order in Rivers
Defending the emergency rule, Okocha described it as a “necessary evil” to restore normalcy to Rivers State.
“With the emergency declared, security and intelligence have been beefed up in Rivers. People like us, who are in the opposition in the state, can now move around freely,” he added.
The Rivers political crisis has continued to generate debate, with different stakeholders offering varying perspectives on the legality and necessity of the emergency rule. The Supreme Court’s ruling on the matter is expected to set a legal precedent for similar situations in the future.
The Honourable Minister of Defence H.E.Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, CON, mini visited the Executive Governor of Katsina State, Mallam Umar Dikko Umaru Radda, at the Government House in Katsina to express condolences following the passing of his beloved mother, Hajiya Safara’u Umar Bare-Bari Radda.
During the visit, Minister Abubakar, on behalf of himself, his family, the Minister of State for Defence H.E. Dr. Bello Matawalle MON and the entire staff of the Ministry of Defence, conveyed heartfelt condolences to Governor Radda, his family, and the people of Katsina State during this difficult time.
In his remarks, he prayed for Almighty Allah to forgive the deceased, grant her mercy, and bestow upon her a place in Jannatul Firdaus. He also offered prayers for the Governor and his family, asking for strength and fortitude to bear this profound loss.
The Minister was accompanied by Hon. Idris Garba Jahun, former Speaker of the Jigawa State House of Assembly, along with Hon. Abubakar Sadiq Jallo and Hon. Mas’ud A. Naruwa, members of the Katsina State House of Assembly representing Hadejia and Babura, respectively.
Key Road Projects to Be Inaugurated During President Tinubu’s Second Anniversary
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, has confirmed the submission of the FCT Administration’s (FCTA) 2025 budget to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for onward transmission to the National Assembly. He also raised concerns about potential funding challenges but reassured residents that critical infrastructure projects would not be derailed.
Wike made this known on Thursday during an inspection tour of ongoing projects in Abuja, highlighting the administration’s commitment to infrastructure expansion and sustainability.
“As of yesterday, I sent our 2025 budget, and by today or tomorrow, Mr. President will have transmitted it to the National Assembly. The 2024 budget will expire in June, and for now, we are still utilizing the funds allocated for this year’s projects,” he stated.
Despite financial uncertainties, Wike expressed confidence in the FCTA’s ability to deliver on its mandate.
“We anticipate funding challenges, but we are prepared to navigate them. I have never been disappointed in my life, and I do not see failure. Challenges exist, but we are here to tackle and overcome them. For now, we don’t foresee any obstacles that will hinder these projects,” he declared.
Maintaining Public Infrastructure for Long-Term Gains
Beyond funding concerns, the minister emphasized the urgent need to instill a strong maintenance culture in public infrastructure management, citing previous neglect as a major drawback.
“One major problem we face as a country is a lack of maintenance culture, and we must change that. Take the International Conference Center, for example—when completed, we will have a maintenance contract with Julius Berger, ensuring that a portion of the revenue generated is reinvested into its upkeep,” he explained.
He criticized past instances of mismanagement, where critical government assets were handed over to individuals for personal gain at the expense of public interest.
“You know what happened last time—it was given to one senator who was making money off it while allowing the structure to deteriorate. That will no longer be business as usual. We will ensure that public facilities remain in top shape,” Wike stressed.
Highlighting the economic benefits of completed infrastructure, he noted that a properly managed International Conference Center would attract global events, positioning Abuja as a key destination for international summits and conferences.
“Nigeria needs a world-class International Conference Center, comparable to any other in the world. When it was built, it was a major hub for global summits. While we have plans for a second one, we must first maintain what we have before expanding further,” he added.
Key Road Projects Set for Inauguration in 2025
Wike also announced that major road projects across Abuja would be commissioned to mark the second anniversary of President Tinubu’s administration.
“We shall also inaugurate those projects during the second year of our service as President. Now again, we are here at this interchange—Gishiri. Behind us leads to Maitama, and you can see that the communities are cooperating. Companies in Gishiri have also complied with necessary demolitions, allowing Gilmore to continue its work. Other connecting roads leading to George’s Quarters are also progressing well,” Wike stated.
The minister disclosed that CGC, the construction firm handling multiple projects, had assured timely completion ahead of the scheduled inauguration.
“These are not the only projects we will commission. We also have major road projects in satellite towns like Tupai, Aguma, and Oshafa, all of which are advancing smoothly. Tomorrow, we will visit Oslox for further inspection of the road projects being handled by CGC and FADEDEM,” he added.
With the submission of the 2025 budget and renewed efforts to ensure sustainability in infrastructure development, the FCT Administration remains committed to enhancing Abuja’s urban and economic landscape.
The Appeal Court sitting in Kaduna State has dismissed the appeal filed by the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) challenging the victory of the parents of 67 Regular Course cadets at the Federal High Court in Kaduna. The court ruled that the appeal lacked merit.
Recall that the NDA had contested an earlier judgment issued by the Federal High Court in Kaduna on May 18, 2023, which ordered the reinstatement of the dismissed cadets and the payment of all their entitlements since 2019.
The Appeal Court upheld the High Court’s decision and also mandated the NDA to immediately reinstate all the dismissed cadets and award them their Degree Certificates, recognising their completion of studies and participation in the academy’s convocation and the 67th Passing Out Parade on October 5, 2019.
In a similar development, the House of Representatives had previously considered a petition from Mohammed Ibrahim and 53 others regarding the unlawful dismissal of the cadets.
On February 24, 2021, the House urged the Minister of Defence and the Chief of Defence Staff to instruct the NDA’s commandant to urgently reinstate the 15 cadet officers who had completed their courses but were wrongfully dismissed.
Delivering the judgment, Justice Onyekachi Aja Otisi stated, “It is hereby ordered that there is no merit in the appeal. It fails and is hereby dismissed.
“The decision of the lower court delivered on 18/5/2023 is hereby affirmed. The 19th Respondents are entitled to costs, which is assessed at N300,000 against the Appellants.”
Barrister Asabe Ahmed, the counsel for the parents of the dismissed cadets, expressed her appreciation to the Appeal Court for upholding the Federal High Court’s judgment.
“We call on the NDA to comply with the judgment by reinstating the dismissed cadets and paying them all their entitlements according to the court order,” she stated, emphasising the union’s commitment to ensuring compliance.
Alhaji Mohammed Ibrahim Daura, the Maradin Daura of Katsina State and a representative of the parents, also spoke to journalists about the ruling.
He appealed to the NDA to follow the court’s decision and reinstate their children, who have been idle for more than six years after their wrongful dismissal.
“Let President Bola Tinubu and the leaders in the military, especially the Defence Minister and Chief of Defence Staff, consider what both court judgments have stated and ensure that justice is served for these children.
“We have already won them in the National Assembly, we went to the Federal High Court, and they gave the same verdict. They were the ones who went to appeal the judgment at the Appeal Court, and their appeal was dismissed on the basis of lack of merit. The judgment is clear.”
“We plead with them to abide by the law of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. These children, up until now, do not have degrees or any recognition. They are just waiting, and it is a pity. They have suffered enough; they should be allowed to go back and continue their service,” he said.
Hon. Azuka Okwuosa (Chinyelugo) has reaffirmed his aspiration to represent Anambra South Senatorial District in the 2025 elections, citing the region’s long-standing underdevelopment and urgent infrastructural challenges as his driving force.
Reflecting on his previous bid for the Senate over a decade ago, Okwuosa emphasized that the key issues that motivated his 2007 aspiration remain unresolved and, in some cases, have worsened.
One of the most pressing concerns, according to Hon. Okwuosa, is the alarming rate of erosion in Anambra South, which has devastated communities such as Nanka, Oko, Ekwulobia, Ezinifite, Nnewi, Oraifite, Ozubulu, Ihiala, Ukpor, Azia, and Okija, among others. He stressed that tackling the erosion crisis requires federal intervention through the ecological fund, a process that demands effective political leadership.
He also decried the deplorable state of federal infrastructure, particularly roads, in the senatorial zone and the larger South-East geopolitical region. “The extent of infrastructural collapse makes one wonder if we even have representatives in the National Assembly,” he lamented.
Addressing youth unemployment, Okwuosa described the situation as an “epidemic,” highlighting the growing number of jobless, energetic, and skilled young people. He warned that the resulting social and security challenges pose a serious threat to the region.
Blaming poor representation for these persistent problems, he asserted that true leadership requires a clear vision and a commitment to delivering results. “Anyone aspiring to be a senator or representative must understand their duty. Failure to deliver means failure in leadership,” he stated.
Hon. Okwuosa revealed that he has a 21-point agenda, which he intends to unveil in detail soon. Among his key priorities is the restructuring of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to eliminate electoral fraud. He strongly advocated for stricter penalties, including capital punishment for electoral fraud, arguing that without credible elections, economic and governance issues would persist.
“As long as electoral fraud exists, economic fraud will thrive. We need laws that ensure the right thing is done,” he declared.
With his renewed bid for the Senate, Hon. Sir Azuka Okwuosa is calling on the people of Anambra South to support his vision for transformational leadership.
A pragmatic leader is sensible , grounded, and prioritizes practical, results-oriented solutions and effectiveness over adhering strictly to theories or traditions, focusing on what truly works in the real world. He promptly makes things happen.
To start with, Chinyelugo pragmatically focuses on practicality and results. He has the ability to identify and implement solutions that are practical and produce tangible results.
Sir Okwuosa, better known as a Unifying Team worker is flexible, adaptable, always willing to adjust his approach on problem solving based on the specific circumstances and needs of the situation.
Chinyelugo, super goal-oriented, is driven by a clear vision focused on seeing his beloved people get their maximum dues from the federal government and he will do whatever it takes within legal means to make it happen.
Chinyelugo prioritizes effectiveness and efficiency, exactly what he is taking to the upper Chambers of the National Assembly to ensure ndị Anambra South get development and progress at the culmination point.
Dearest potential APC Anambra South Senatorial bye-election Delegates and Ndị Anambra South, Anambra South will be blessed with Sir Zukky representing us in the Senate.
Let’s unwaveringly support Sir Azuka Okwuosa for quality progress and development of Anambra South Senatorial District.
First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has sounded the alarm over Nigeria’s tuberculosis (TB) crisis, revealing that one person dies of TB every seven minutes, despite the disease being both preventable and curable.
Speaking at the World TB Day 2025 Community Outreach in Sauka village, Abuja, Tinubu described the situation as a national emergency requiring swift and decisive action.
> “In the short time we have spent at this event, many more lives will be lost if we do not act swiftly and decisively,” she warned, citing alarming statistics from the World Health Organization (WHO).
Despite global advancements in TB treatment, Nigeria remains one of the eight countries with the highest TB burden worldwide. Tinubu lamented that many Nigerians suffer in silence due to stigma, lack of awareness, and delays in seeking medical care.
> “It is unacceptable that so many of our brothers and sisters continue to die from a disease that is both preventable and curable,” she stated.
Under the Renewed Hope Agenda, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has prioritized expanding TB testing and treatment centers nationwide to ensure that free and accessible treatment reaches those in need.
₦1 Billion Renewed Hope Fund, New Primary Healthcare Center for Sauka
In a major boost to Nigeria’s TB response, Tinubu announced a ₦1 billion pledge through her Renewed Hope Initiative to strengthen TB control efforts and improve healthcare facilities in underserved communities.
Additionally, she confirmed that the Minister of State for Health has approved the establishment of a primary healthcare center in Sauka, a densely populated community in the FCT.
> “This center will ensure greater access to TB diagnosis and treatment for residents who previously had to travel long distances for care,” she said.
Encouraging citizens to prioritize their health, Tinubu stressed the importance of early detection and treatment.
> “If you have a persistent cough for more than two weeks, do not ignore it. Seek medical help immediately,” she urged.
She also vowed to advocate for increased funding, mobilize resources, and fight stigma, ensuring that women, children, and marginalized groups have equal access to TB care.
Government Intensifies TB Response
The Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Salako, reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to eliminating TB by 2030, highlighting:
Upgrade of 10,000 Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs)
Training of 120,000 health workers
Expansion of TB screening, diagnosis, and treatment services across public and private healthcare facilities
Salako commended frontline health workers for their dedication despite economic challenges and praised Tinubu for her financial and advocacy support.
> “TB is not a death sentence; it is preventable and treatable,” he reassured, urging citizens to seek early diagnosis and adhere to treatment.
Lawmakers, Experts Call for Increased Domestic Funding
The Chairman of the House Committee on HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria, Hon. Amobi Godwin Ogah, warned that foreign funding for TB is declining, calling for increased domestic investment.
> “For us to eliminate TB by 2030, we must commit, invest, and deliver,” he declared, urging the private sector to establish a TB fund similar to existing HIV and malaria initiatives.
Hon. Ogah also condemned TB-related stigma and discrimination, announcing that the House Committee will soon pass a law prohibiting such practices.
Global Experts Praise Nigeria’s TB Efforts
Dr. Austin Arinze Obiefuna, Board Vice Chair, Global Stop TB Partnership, Geneva, commended Nigeria for its strong commitment and strategic investments in TB control.
> “Nigeria is setting the pace in Africa and gaining global recognition for its efforts in tackling TB,” he said, urging stakeholders to sustain the momentum.
Similarly, Dr. Walter Kazadi Mulombo, WHO Representative to Nigeria, raised concerns over drastic cuts in global health funding, warning that progress in TB control could be reversed without urgent investments.
> “Nigeria is not just watching; Nigeria is taking action,” he declared, urging donors, private sector players, academia, the press, and communities to join forces in the fight against TB.
Traditional Rulers Demand Lasting Healthcare Solutions
The Sapeyi of Garki, HRH Usman Nga Kupi, called for the establishment of more TB diagnosis and treatment centers in underserved communities.
> “Sauka remains one of the largest communities in the FCT without a health facility. A dedicated TB center here would not only help combat the disease but also improve overall healthcare delivery,” he stated.
He commended First Lady Sen. Oluremi Tinubu and donor agencies for their commitment, urging the government to translate promises into lasting healthcare solutions.
Nigeria’s TB Burden: The Call for Urgent Action
According to Dr. Queen Ogbuji-Ladipo, Acting Board Chair, Stop TB Partnership Nigeria, Nigeria recorded 499,000 TB cases in 2023, making it the highest TB-burdened country in Africa and sixth globally.
> “Together, we can end TB. Yes, we fit do am,” she declared, urging stakeholders to increase investments in TB prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.
Conclusion: A Renewed Hope to End TB
As Nigeria works towards its 2030 goal of ending TB, Senator Oluremi Tinubu’s message remains clear:
> “Every life matters. We must act now to stop this silent killer.”
With a ₦1 billion fund, expanded healthcare facilities, and a government-wide commitment, Nigeria is taking bold steps to defeat TB. However, sustained collaboration between the government, private sector, and global partners remains critical to achieving a TB-free Nigeria.
*AZUKA OKWUOSA: A SURE WAY TO GO IN ANAMBRA SOUTH BY-ELECTION*
*“Good governance is not about making speeches or being liked; it is about taking action and doing what is right* ” – *Indira Gandhi”*
Governance is about more than just talking about problems; it’s about taking meaningful steps to address them and the only one man that has the magic stroke is – *Hon. Sir Azuka Okwuosa (Chinyelugo Oraifite)*
Effective leadership is built on a foundation of action, integrity, and the pursuit of solutions that directly benefit the people , of which Ndi Anambra can attest to the fact that Hon. Sir Azuka Okwuosa is a leader par excellence.
A nation, or even a community, is transformed not by criticisms alone, but by purposeful leadership that engages with the realities on the ground and takes bold steps toward progress. Without doubt, Hon. Sir Azuka Okwuosa’s legacies are still there for all to see especially during his time as Nnewi North local Government chairman and erstwhile Commissioner of Works and Transport.
The path to real progress does not lie in endlessly criticizing past and present leadership. Instead, it starts with changing how we approach problems, developing solutions that are rooted in the needs of the people, and uniting in the effort to build Anambra South we envision.
The journey to creating a stronger Anambra South Senatorial District requires collective effort, guided by the principles of responsibility, collaboration, and action.
*Now is the time to act, not just to criticize. It’s time for engagement, not detachment. It’s time to be a DOER, not just a bystander*.
*INTEGRITY UNBLEMISHED: SIR AZUKA OKWUOSA STANDS HEADS AND SHOULDERS ABOVE ALL CONTENDERS FOR ANAMBRA SOUTH SENATORIAL BYE-ELECTION*
Dear Potential APC Anambra South Senatorial bye-election Delegates,
As the primaries for the election of our Candidate for the forthcoming Senatorial bye-election inevitably approaches, it is of utmost importance that you look out for the Contender who posseses unshakable integrity for therein lies the base of legislation.
With his impeccable personality, Chinyelugo has constantly been leaving his golden footprints on the sands of time throughout his political career and still counting…
Our party, the All Progressives Congress records Sir Azuka Okwuosa as one of the Political leaders who have remained scandal-free and have consistently been striving to keep the party together in good times and in turbulent tides, flawlessly.
Admirably, Ndị Anambra and whoever has come in contact with Chinyelugo has one fundamental thing to say about him- ” he is a good man”. He is a Leader loved by all and the people are resolutely in support of his Senatorial bye-election Aspiration.
If Integrity is a sine qua non for effectiveness of the Hallowed Anambra South Senatorial Seat, then, Sir Zukky should be unwaveringly supported for it takes a good man to deliver accordingly; with him, victory is assured at the polls!
Support unblemished integrity!
Support untainted personality!
Support unprecedented passion for uprightness!
Support Sir Azuka Okwuosa for quality Representation in the Senate.
… Urges all parties to respect the declaration and warns against attacks on government facilities
The Honourable Minister of State for Defence H.E. Dr. Bello Mohammad Matawalle MON,has expressed his strong support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, emphasizing that this decisive action is vital for restoring stability to the state’s turbulent political landscape.
Matawalle stated that the declaration is a necessary measure to address the ongoing political crisis, which has hindered the delivery of democratic governance and the welfare of the people of Rivers State. He called on all political actors involved in the crisis to adhere to the President’s declaration and work collaboratively towards a peaceful resolution.
In light of the current situation, the Minister reiterated that the Nigerian Military is on high alert to safeguard government infrastructure and ensure the security of the citizens. He warned that any attempts to attack government facilities or disrupt public order will be met with a resolute response from security forces.
Reflecting on the President’s address regarding the state of emergency, he acknowledged the gravity of the political crisis in Rivers State and the urgent need for intervention. He highlighted the unfortunate demolition of the House of Assembly by the state governor, which has left the state without a functioning legislature for over fourteen months. This action has contributed to the ongoing political impasse and the inability of the government to effectively serve the people.
The Minister also noted the Supreme Court’s recent ruling, which reaffirmed the constitutional necessity of a functioning legislature and condemned the governor’s actions as unconstitutional. He emphasized that the court’s findings call for immediate restoration of democratic governance in the state.
Minister Matawalle expressed concern over recent reports of vandalism and threats from militants, underscoring the need for a unified effort to restore peace and security. He reiterated that the Federal Government is committed to ensuring the safety of all citizens and the protection of vital infrastructure in Rivers State.
In addition, the Honourable Minister of State reaffirmed the commitment of the Ministry of Defence and the Nigerian Armed Forces to upholding national security and ensuring that Rivers State returns to peace, stability and democratic governance.
In conclusion, the Minister of State for Defence urged all stakeholders to embrace this opportunity for renewed governance and cooperation. He expressed hope that the state of emergency will pave the way for a peaceful and democratic Rivers State, benefitting all its residents.
