Saturday, July 26, 2025
Home Blog Page 5

Arewa Group Blasts Atiku-Led Alliance as “Misguided, Self-Serving Political Gambit”

By
Roland Edet
-
0

The Arewa Empowerment Coalition (AEC) has fiercely rejected the proposed All Democratic Alliance (ADA) reportedly being championed by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, describing it as a “desperate and opportunistic move” by a group of discredited politicians seeking relevance.

In a strongly worded statement issued on Tuesday, AEC National Coordinator, Sulaiman Yusuf Sani, dismissed the planned alliance involving Atiku and political heavyweights such as former governors Nasir El-Rufai and Rotimi Amaechi, and ex-Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal, as “a misguided political misadventure driven by personal ambition, not national interest.”

> “This so-called alliance is nothing but a gathering of disgruntled opportunists attempting to hijack Nigeria’s democratic process for their own selfish ends,” Sani said.

He warned that the North and indeed the entire country would not be deceived by what he termed “political theater masked as coalition-building,” asserting that the coalition reflects a deep misunderstanding of the political climate and growing demands for credible leadership.

> “Atiku Abubakar’s repeated political miscalculations are well documented. This new move is no different. It underestimates the intelligence of Nigerians who now demand substance, not recycled alliances built on fading political legacies,” he added.

The AEC said the involvement of controversial figures like El-Rufai, Amaechi, and Lawal “only reinforces the belief that the ADA lacks moral compass and political credibility,” citing unresolved issues from their time in public office.

Sani accused the alliance leaders of being out of touch with the realities of ordinary Nigerians, saying their attempt to rebrand through coalition politics is unlikely to gain traction.

“These are politicians who have lost touch with the grassroots. Having failed to inspire or connect with the people, they now hide behind the veil of a new alliance. Nigerians won’t fall for it,” he said.

He further stated that true leadership requires vision, credibility, and people-centered policies — not “last-minute power plays designed to salvage fading careers.”

“This alliance, if it ever materializes, is doomed to fail. It’s not built on principle or purpose but pure political desperation.”

The AEC urged Nigerians, particularly northern youths, to remain vigilant and reject political arrangements that are not rooted in integrity, inclusivity, and national development.

“Our democracy is not a chessboard for failed politicians to experiment with. We call on Nigerians to be discerning and resist alliances that do not align with their aspirations or reflect genuine commitment to public service.”

Sani concluded with a stern message to Atiku and his allies:

“If you truly care about the future of Nigeria, engage in honest dialogue with the people. Step away from outdated political schemes and show leadership that puts citizens first not selfish ambition.”

Atiku Slams Tinubu over ‘Classmate’ Claim, Demands Answers on Chicago Degree, Age Discrepancy

By
Roland Edet
-
0

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has accused President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of misleading Nigerians over his academic past, demanding full disclosure following Tinubu’s recent claim that a Belarusian businessman, widely believed to be Alex Zingman, was his classmate at Chicago State University (CSU).

The controversy began on Monday during the launch of the Renewed Hope Agricultural Mechanisation Programme in Abuja, where Tinubu introduced “Alex” as a former neighbour and fellow CSU student.

“Alex was my very good neighbour and went to the same school with me in Chicago,” Tinubu had said during the live event.

But Atiku, citing publicly available information, pointed out a major inconsistency: Zingman was born in 1966, making him just 13 years old in 1979 — the year Tinubu claims to have graduated from CSU with a degree in Business Administration.

“Nigerians deserve to know why a man born in 1966 is being paraded as your classmate who graduated in 1979,” Atiku said in a statement on Tuesday.

“Were you in the same classroom or in different decades? This inconsistency raises deeply troubling questions.”

Beyond the age mismatch, Atiku raised red flags about Zingman’s alleged links to arms trafficking and shadowy business activities across Africa, stating that Tinubu’s association with such a figure “undermines the integrity of the presidency.”

“This is not just about an academic certificate, but about the character and company of the man who leads 200 million people,” he said.

“The presidency is not a place for secrets or shady associations. Nigerians demand facts, not fiction.”

Tinubu’s academic history has long been a source of public debate, with questions swirling around conflicting school records, missing transcripts, and altered certificates. While Chicago State University has confirmed Tinubu’s attendance and graduation in past correspondence, critics — including Atiku — continue to press for full disclosure of his academic documents.

Tinubu has previously fought off legal attempts to subpoena his academic records, further fueling suspicion.

Atiku’s latest salvo is seen as a continuation of the political rivalry between the two men, who were once allies but faced off bitterly during the 2023 presidential election. The former vice president’s demand comes at a time when public confidence in political transparency remains fragile.

“This is about truth and leadership,” Atiku concluded. “And the truth must not be delayed any longer.”

Defections Rock PDP, Labour Party as Two Lawmakers Join APC

By
Saladin Babagana
-
0

The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) on Tuesday strengthened its grip on the National Assembly as two federal lawmakers—one from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and another from the Labour Party (LP)announced their defection to the party.

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, read the defection letters of Hon. Peter Akpanke and Hon. Paul Nnamchi during plenary, drawing loud applause from APC members.

Akpanke, who represents Obanliku/Obudu/Bekwara Federal Constituency of Cross River State, was elected on the platform of the PDP, while Nnamchi, representing Enugu East/Isi Uzo Federal Constituency of Enugu State, was elected under the Labour Party.

In their letters, both lawmakers cited deepening internal crises and lack of direction in their former parties as reasons for their defection. They also expressed readiness to support the policies and development agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s APC-led government.

With these defections, the APC continues to consolidate its majority in the House of Representatives.

Reps Launch Probe into National Health Insurance Failures, Mourn Killing of 13 Kaduna Travellers

By
Saladin Babagana
-
0

The House of Representatives on Tuesday ordered a sweeping investigation into the persistent failures of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) and its affiliated Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs), citing poor service delivery, corruption, and inadequate access to care for Nigerians.

This decision followed the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance by Hon. Dr. Billy Osawaru, who decried the dismal performance of the NHIA despite reforms introduced through the NHIA Act of 2022.

> “Only about five percent of Nigerians are enrolled in the scheme—this is unacceptable,” Osawaru said. “Enrollees are routinely denied access to life-saving procedures like cesarean sections and appendectomies, while providers go unpaid for months.”

He accused HMOs of frustrating the goals of universal health coverage through delays in payments, limited access to essential drugs, and rising out-of-pocket costs that leave vulnerable Nigerians in despair.

The House subsequently mandated the Director-General of the NHIA to work with its Committee on Healthcare Services to examine the system’s failures and propose reforms. The Committees on Healthcare Services and Health Institutions were also directed to investigate the NHIA and report back in four weeks.

Meanwhile, the House condemned the brutal killing of 13 unarmed travellers from Unguwan Rimi in Sabon Gari LGA of Kaduna State, who were ambushed and murdered in Mangu LGA of Plateau State on June 20, while en route to a wedding.

Raising the motion, Rep. Sadiq Ango Abdullahi described the massacre as a “heinous, senseless act” and blamed worsening inter-state insecurity for the tragedy.

“These were innocent Nigerians on a peaceful journey, yet they became victims of growing criminality and unchecked violence,” he said.

Lawmakers observed a minute’s silence for the slain victims and demanded immediate action from the Inspector-General of Police, the DSS Director-General, and the Chief of Army Staff to investigate and bring the perpetrators to justice.

The House called on the Federal Government to strengthen inter-state security frameworks to protect travellers and urged the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to provide urgent humanitarian assistance to the victims’ families.

An ad-hoc committee was set up to investigate the recurring violence on that route and report back within two weeks, while relevant committees on security were tasked with ensuring compliance with all resolutions.

“The security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government,” the House reaffirmed, citing Section 14(2)(b) of the 1999 Constitution.

PDP Crisis Deepens as Metuh, Ologbondiyan Slam Damagum Over Attack on Ologunagba

By
Uche Kingsley
-
0

Tensions within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) escalated on Tuesday as former party spokespersons and senior members condemned Acting National Chairman, Ambassador Umar Damagum, for disowning a statement made by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Hon. Debo Ologunagba.

Ologunagba had, during a media parley on Sunday, reiterated the party’s stance that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) could not stop the PDP’s 100th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting scheduled for June 30. However, in a surprise move, Damagum issued a statement on Monday distancing the party from Ologunagba’s remarks, claiming the spokesman acted without authorization from the National Working Committee (NWC).

“The comment by Hon. Debo Ologunagba was made without the authority or approval of the NWC,” Damagum said in the statement.

The fallout drew sharp reactions from prominent PDP figures, including former National Publicity Secretaries, Kola Ologbondiyan and Olisa Metuh, who described Damagum’s action as an affront to party leadership structures and a threat to internal cohesion.

> “Damagum came after Ologunagba for re-echoing the unanimous resolution of our NEC. This is completely unacceptable and a major affront to the authority of NEC, the NWC, and the sensibility of all PDP members,” Ologbondiyan wrote on Facebook.

He warned that the Acting Chairman’s statement undermines the party’s constitution and could damage its credibility. He urged PDP leaders to act quickly to prevent further internal sabotage.

Olisa Metuh, who also took to social media, said the development was deeply troubling and could erode public trust in the party’s communication channels.

> “I hope this is fake news. Otherwise, it’s an act capable of bringing the party into great disrepute. This is a cardinal offence against the party’s constitution,” Metuh stated.

He expressed concern for the future of the PDP, recalling his 17 years of dedicated service to the party.

“How can the public believe future statements from the National Publicity Secretary if the leadership openly discredits him?” he queried.

The National Ex-Officio Members of the PDP also weighed in, backing Ologunagba and expressing shock at Damagum’s response. In a statement jointly signed by Hon. Chief Faboyede Clement and Hon. Comfort Yassan, they said Ologunagba acted within his constitutional role as party spokesman.

“The media interaction was in line with his duty to communicate the resolutions and activities of the party. We reaffirm our confidence in him and express our full support,” the Ex-Officio members stated.

They further reminded Damagum that as Acting Chairman, he is expected to uphold the party’s constitution and implement decisions made by its organs.

With the 100th NEC meeting approaching, the public fallout signals a growing internal struggle for control and direction within Nigeria’s main opposition party. Observers say how the PDP manages this controversy could shape its image and unity ahead of the 2027 elections.

2027: Barau Rejects VP Campaign, Urges Northern Groups to Back Tinubu’s Agenda

By
Uche Kingsley
-
0

Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau I. Jibrin, has firmly distanced himself from calls by some northern groups urging President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to consider him as a potential running mate in the 2027 general elections.

In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ismail Mudashir, on Tuesday, Senator Barau warned against such premature political campaigns, particularly those led by the Northern Nigeria Progressive Youth Assembly (NNPYA), describing them as misplaced and counterproductive.

“My attention has been drawn to various posts on social media and in some national dailies by groups including the Northern Nigeria Progressive Youth Assembly (NNPYA), urging President Tinubu to pick me as his running mate in 2027. This is out of place and not in our collective best interest at this moment,” Barau said.

The Kano-born lawmaker, who also serves as the First Deputy Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, appealed to his supporters and political groups to direct their energy toward supporting the current administration’s efforts to address Nigeria’s numerous challenges.

> “If you are truly my supporters, please desist from this unnecessary clamour and join the train to restore the glorious days of our country under the able leadership of President Tinubu. Let us rally around him to continue delivering on his lofty programmes under the Renewed Hope Agenda,” he added.

Barau reiterated his unwavering commitment to the success of President Tinubu’s administration, urging Nigerians to focus on national progress rather than political positioning.

> “This is not the time for such political distractions. What should be paramount to all of us now is the success of the President. He is genuinely committed to turning around our country’s fortunes positively,” the statement read.

The Deputy Senate President emphasized that the policies of the Tinubu administration were beginning to bear fruit and called on all Nigerians to be part of the effort to restore the country’s prosperity.

“Let us support the President in continuing his programmes and policies. Together, we can build a better Nigeria,” he said.

Nigeria Taps Brazil’s Health Blueprint to Fast-Track Universal Health Coverage, Local Drug Manufacturing

By
Toyin Adebayo
-
0

Nigeria is seeking to deepen health sector collaboration with Brazil as part of a broader strategy to achieve Universal Health Coverage (UHC), expand local pharmaceutical production, and reform its healthcare system under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

This was the focus of discussions at the 2nd Session of the Nigeria–Brazil Strategic Dialogue Mechanism held Tuesday in Abuja, where the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, outlined Nigeria’s ambitious health reform agenda and proposed a new bilateral framework to drive progress.

“President Tinubu’s administration is committed to prioritizing health through increased investments and strategic policies,” Salako said. “With a 52% rise in health budget over two years and 21 policy reforms, we are laying the foundation for a resilient and inclusive health system.”

Salako emphasized the need to learn from Brazil’s Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS) a globally lauded public healthcare model that delivers free services to over 70% of Brazilians and has contributed to a 77% decline in infant mortality since 1990.

“Brazil’s achievements in public health, generic drug legislation, and pharmaceutical production provide valuable lessons as we work to unlock our healthcare value chain and expand access to care,” he said.

Nigeria’s Key Health Sector Gains (Q1 2025):

Primary Health Reach: Over 37 million Nigerians served.

Workforce Expansion: Reduced hiring delays, increased capacity through task-shifting and training.

Health Insurance Growth: Coverage up by over 15% in one year, with new packages for vulnerable groups.

Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF) Reform: Improved transparency and timely disbursements.

Pharmaceutical Boost: 87 local manufacturers now benefit from incentives under the Presidential Value Chain Initiative.

WHO Recognition: Two Nigerian-made medicines received WHO prequalification — the first in West and Central Africa.

Hospital Projects: 12 new tertiary hospitals and over 500 projects across 61 institutions, including six new cancer centres.

Digital Innovation: Launch of the Nigerian Digital in Health Initiative.

Preventive Health: Rollout of HPV and malaria vaccines, and renewed cervical cancer elimination efforts.

Salako described the NASENI–Troment Biotechnology Factory as a success story in local manufacturing and called for deeper cooperation with Brazil in joint pharmaceutical ventures, vaccine production, research, and health workforce development.

Proposed Nigeria–Brazil Health Collaboration Areas:

Joint Ventures: In pharmaceuticals and vaccine manufacturing.

Research and Innovation: On infectious and non-communicable diseases.

Training Exchanges: Capacity building for Nigerian health professionals.

Disease Surveillance: Leveraging Brazil’s expertise in vector control and public health response.

Policy Framework: Creation of a Nigeria–Brazil Health Cooperation Framework and a Five-Year Joint Action Plan.

The Minister expressed optimism that ongoing engagements with Brazilian officials, including the Vice President’s visit, would lead to a formal partnership that advances healthcare delivery in both countries.

“We are confident that this partnership, backed by political will and a shared vision, will deliver long-term benefits for the people of Nigeria and Brazil, and contribute meaningfully to global health equity,” Salako concluded.

The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare says it views this collaboration as a key driver in achieving Nigeria’s goal of building a strong, resilient, and self-reliant health system by 2030.

BREAKING: Chaos Erupts at SDP Headquarters as Punch Reporter Assaulted, Arise TV Camera Seized

By
Toyin Adebayo
-
0

A meeting of the Social Democratic Party’s (SDP) National Working Committee (NWC) descended into chaos on Tuesday as journalists were assaulted and equipment vandalized at the party’s national secretariat in Abuja.

The incident occurred at the party’s headquarters located at 16 Nairobi Street, Off Parakou Estate, Wuse II, where reporters had gathered to cover the high-stakes meeting amid the suspension of the party’s National Chairman, Alhaji Shehu Musa Gabam, over allegations of financial misconduct.

During the melee, Francis Adebayo, a journalist with The Punch, had his shirt torn in a scuffle, while the camera of Arise TV was seized by unidentified individuals. The camera was only recovered after swift intervention by a correspondent from The Nation newspaper.

Though the exact trigger of the violence remains unclear, eyewitnesses linked the chaos to mounting tensions within the party over recent leadership controversies and increased media scrutiny.

Party officials have yet to release an official statement on the incident, but the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) and other media advocacy groups are calling for a thorough investigation and sanctions against those responsible for the attack on members of the press.

The incident has sparked outrage among media professionals, raising concerns over press freedom and the safety of journalists covering political events in Nigeria.

Tinubu Commissions Key Abuja Expressway to Decongest City, Drive Investment

By
Toyin Adebayo
-
0

As traffic pressure and population growth intensify across Nigeria’s capital, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has said that road infrastructure is designed to decongest Abuja’s road network and unlock economic potential.

Represented by Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin, President Tinubu on Tuesday inaugurated the newly completed right-hand service carriageway of the Inner Northern Expressway (INEX), linking Route 3 to the Murtala Mohammed Expressway.

“It is with great pride and fulfillment I stand before you today to commission this project,” he said while delivering the President’s remarks. “This road is more than concrete and asphalt it is a symbol of progress and a cornerstone of our infrastructure renewal agenda.”

The President described the project as a critical component of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Master Plan, aimed at easing congestion, enhancing connectivity, and improving urban mobility for millions of residents and businesses.

He praised the FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike, for his leadership and swift delivery of the project, saying the minister’s vision is helping shape a more livable and future-ready city.

“You have contributed to something larger than a roadway you’ve contributed to the future of our capital,” Tinubu noted.

The expressway is expected to improve traffic flow, reduce travel time, and open up access to housing, commerce, and investment opportunities in adjoining districts.

“This road will not only decongest key junctions but also facilitate safer, faster movement within Abuja’s transportation corridors,” the President said. “It is a direct boost to economic activity and quality of life.”

Reaffirming his administration’s broader commitment to infrastructure-driven development, Tinubu said similar projects will be replicated across all regions of the country.

“We are determined to replicate these successes in every part of Nigeria roads, bridges, railways and more ensuring that no region is left behind.”

He also appealed to residents to protect the infrastructure and use it responsibly.

“Obey traffic rules and safeguard public assets. These roads belong to all of us and future generations,” Tinubu advised.

Earlier, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barrister Nyesom Wike reaffirmed the Tinubu administration’s commitment to infrastructural renewal as he commissioned the 16-kilometre Idu-Zuba Expressway a long-abandoned project now completed at a revised cost of N31 billion.

According to him, the road, initially awarded in 2014 at N7 billion but stalled for over a decade, was delivered under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Wike said the project was revived and fast-tracked because of the President’s resolve to complete critical infrastructure that has direct economic impact.

“This project was awarded in 2014 for N7 billion, and 11 years later it is finally completed at N31 billion. If we had committed just N500 million monthly from our IGR, this could have been finished in a year. That’s simple arithmetic,” Wike said.

Area Council Polls: Show Your Scorecard, Wike Tells Political Opponents at Idu-Zuba Road Commissioning

By
Toyin Adebayo
-
0

Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike, has dared political aspirants eyeing seats in the upcoming Area Council elections to show tangible evidence of development, warning that only those with real achievements can win the people’s trust.

Wike issued the challenge on Tuesday while commissioning the newly completed 16-kilometre Idu-Zuba Expressway a project first awarded in 2014 but stalled for years and now delivered at a revised cost of N31 billion under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

“We will show roads, bus terminals, and schools. The work we’ve done is our campaign. The project is the rigging when you give the people what they want, the result is clear,” Wike declared.

The Minister said the Idu-Zuba road, once neglected, is now a key artery for industrial and economic expansion in Abuja, particularly with its direct access to the Idu Industrial Park, which he said could create over 40,000 direct jobs if fully operational.

“This is Abuja’s industrial hub. But for years, companies couldn’t move forward because they had no C-of-O. When we came in and saw the setback, we issued the certificates in two weeks. Today, activities have resumed,” he said.

Wike criticised past delays in the project’s execution, noting that with steady funding from Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), the road could have been completed in just one year.

“If N500 million was paid monthly from IGR, this would’ve been done in a year. But it dragged for 11 years. That’s unacceptable,” he said.

He also revealed that the contractor has offered to complete the left-hand side of the expressway if the federal government provides tax concessions a proposal already sent to the Ministry of Finance for consideration.

Wike further raised concerns about bureaucratic bottlenecks, such as the years-long delay in approving the contractor’s request to cross the railway line for project completion.

“No investor will come if basic infrastructure is lacking. It’s our duty as government to create the enabling environment,” the Minister emphasized.

He lauded President Tinubu for his commitment to infrastructure renewal, noting that within just 10 days, the President and his representatives have commissioned 10 major projects across the FCT.

“Mr. President has come five times himself and delegated the Senate President, Speaker, and Deputy Senate President on other occasions. That’s real leadership,” Wike said.

Using a local proverb, Wike attributed the success of the FCT projects to strong presidential support.

“When you see a monkey jumping from tree to tree, it’s because the trees are close. If the trees are far apart, the monkey falls. We’re achieving results because Mr. President is backing us,” he quipped.

The completion of the Idu-Zuba Expressway is expected to ease traffic congestion, enhance access to industrial areas, and boost inclusive development across Abuja and its satellite town reinforcing the Tinubu administration’s focus on infrastructure-led transformation.

1...456...365Page 5 of 365

EDITOR PICKS

POPULAR POSTS

POPULAR CATEGORY

ABOUT US

Newsfocus is your news, sports,politics, entertainment, music fashion website. We offer you the latest breaking news and videos straight from the sports and entertainment industry across the world.

Contact us: [email protected]

FOLLOW US

© 2020 Focus Media . All Rights Reserved