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Supreme Court Reserves Judgment in PDP Governors’ Suit Against Tinubu Over Rivers Emergency Rule

Roland Edet
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Supreme Court Reserves Judgment in PDP Governors’ Suit Against Tinubu Over Rivers Emergency Rule

The Supreme Court on Tuesday reserved judgment in a suit filed by some Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governors challenging President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State.

A seven-member panel of justices, led by Justice Inyang Okoro, announced the decision after parties adopted their written addresses.

The plaintiffs, represented by the Attorneys-General of 20 states, are suing the Federal Government and the National Assembly. However, the Delta State Government the 5th plaintiff withdrew from the suit without objection from the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), Lateef Fagbemi, SAN.

Arguing for the plaintiffs, Eyitayo Jegede, SAN, clarified that their contention was not about the President’s constitutional power to proclaim an emergency but the extent to which such a proclamation could affect the offices of the Governor, Deputy Governor, and State House of Assembly.

In his defence, Fagbemi maintained that Rivers State was in deep political crisis, warranting urgent presidential intervention. He said the suspension of the Governor, his deputy, and the Assembly was a temporary, extraordinary measure to restore order.

“The President had a constitutional duty to act swiftly. The plaintiffs have failed to prove otherwise,” Fagbemi submitted, urging the court to dismiss the case.

Counsel to the National Assembly, Charles Yohila, aligned with the AGF’s position and also called for the dismissal of the suit.

After hearing both sides, the apex court reserved judgment to a date that will be communicated to the parties.

CAN Slams Presidency Over Misleading Statement, Reaffirms ‘Christian Genocide’ in Nigeria

Toyin Adebayo
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CAN Slams Presidency Over Misleading Statement, Reaffirms ‘Christian Genocide’ in Nigeria

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has faulted a statement credited to the Presidency which, it said, misrepresented its stance on the killings of Christians across the country, reaffirming that the violence amounts to a “Christian genocide” that has persisted for years without justice.

In a statement on Tuesday signed by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, CAN said it became necessary to issue a clarification following “misleading reports” that trailed the courtesy visit of Barrister Daniel Bwala, Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Media and Policy Communication, to the CAN Secretariat at the National Christian Centre, Abuja, on Monday, October 20, 2025.

According to CAN, Bwala’s visit was to seek understanding of the Christian body’s position in the wake of global reactions to U.S. Senator Ted Cruz’s comment describing the sustained attacks on Christians in Nigeria as a Christian genocide.

“During the meeting, Barrister Bwala acknowledged that both Christians and Muslims have suffered from insecurity, noting that the current administration inherited the challenge and is working to address it,” the statement explained.

However, CAN expressed shock at a press release reportedly issued after the visit, titled ‘Presidency Debunks Western Christian Genocide Narrative in Dialogue with CAN Leadership’.

“That portrayal is completely false and grossly unfair,” Archbishop Okoh declared. “The meeting was recorded by CAN’s media team, and at no point did I or any member of the leadership describe the killings as a ‘so-called Christian genocide.’ Referring to the tragedy in such terms trivialises the pain of countless Christians who have lost loved ones, homes, and places of worship in targeted attacks.”

Reaffirming its long-standing position, CAN maintained that the killings are targeted and systematic.

“Across parts of Northern Nigeria and the Middle Belt, Christian communities have suffered repeated, organised, and brutal attacks which have left thousands dead, villages razed, and families displaced,” Okoh said. “These are not random crimes but a continuing pattern of violence that has gone on for years without justice or closure.”

The statement added that Bishop Mike Akpami, CAN’s Director of Planning, Research and Strategy, presented verified data from www.orfa.africa, detailing consistent and targeted assaults on Christians across Africa, including Nigeria.

CAN also clarified inaccuracies in some reports, stating that Rev. Dr. Uzoaku Williams and Dr. Celestine Aharanwa were not at the meeting.
Those in attendance included Archbishop Daniel Okoh (President), Rev. (Dr.) Stephen Panya Baba (Vice President), Apostle (Prof.) Samson Fatokun (General Secretary), Dean Rev. Emmanuel Nicodemus Ozumba (Director of Education, Women & Youth), Dame Comfort Otera Chigbue (Director of Legal & Public Affairs), Bishop Mike Akpami (Director of Planning, Research & Strategy), Prophet Commodore Abimbola Ayuba (Director of National Issues & Social Welfare), Rev. Dr. Simon Dolly (Secretary, North Central Zone), and Dr. Victor Ivoke (Senior Special Assistant to the CAN President).

CAN further called on the Federal Government and security agencies to act with urgency, fairness, and transparency to halt the killings and bring perpetrators to justice.

“We urge media professionals and government officials to speak with truth, empathy, and responsibility,” the statement concluded. “Careless words can deepen wounds and undermine peace.”

Wike: Tinubu Fulfilling Promises to Legal Education, Orders New Auditorium for Nigerian Law School

Toyin Adebayo
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Wike: Tinubu Fulfilling Promises to Legal Education, Orders New Auditorium for Nigerian Law School

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Barr. Nyesom Wike, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his consistent support toward strengthening legal education in Nigeria, describing the President’s interventions as “a promise made and fulfilled.”

Speaking at the flag-off of a new 600-capacity student hostel at the Nigerian Law School, Abuja Campus, Wike said the project was a direct result of President Tinubu’s commitment to addressing the shortage of student accommodation across law school campuses.

“Let it be recorded and for the doubting Thomases that in just two years of President Tinubu’s administration, through his Attorney General, the Nigerian Law School has received two major interventions,” Wike declared.
“When the President, through the Attorney General, came to flag off the staff quarters last December, he also promised to address the accommodation challenges. Today, we are here to fulfill that promise.”

The Minister noted that the latest intervention demonstrated the President’s quality of leadership and responsiveness to critical educational needs.

He recalled a recent discussion with President Tinubu in which he highlighted the need for an additional auditorium at the Law School to complement the new hostels being constructed.

“When I told Mr. President that the existing auditorium might not take all the students once the new hostels are ready, he immediately directed me to ensure that another auditorium is built,” Wike revealed. “This shows that when problems are properly channeled to the right authority, reasonable leadership always responds.”

Wike also praised the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), for his proactive leadership and collaborative spirit, which he said have brought positive changes to the justice sector.

“All we are doing in the justice sector today is because of his support and commitment,” Wike stated. “He was the one who initiated the digitization of the FCT High Courts, which the President approved and the National Assembly funded. Work is now ongoing to make our courts fully digital.”

The Minister reaffirmed that the new project would be completed within 12 months, warning contractors against delays or variations.

He further commended the Director-General of the Nigerian Law School and the Council of Legal Education for their dedication to improving infrastructure and maintaining high standards in legal training.

Wike also recalled similar interventions in Yenagoa and Port Harcourt, noting that the Rivers campus built during his tenure as Governor remains the best among all law school campuses in the country.

“History will be kind to those who used their time in office to make meaningful contributions,” he added.

The event was graced by dignitaries from the legal and education sectors, including the Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), who officially flagged off the construction project.

Also speaking, Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), expressed gratitude to President Tinubu and Minister Wike for their “unprecedented interventions” in legal education, describing the projects as a true reflection of the Renewed Hope Agenda in action.

“It is an understatement to say I am happy I am elated. This marks the fourth major intervention for the Law School and Council of Legal Education under this administration. What we are seeing today is real leadership that delivers results,” he said.

Fagbemi praised Wike for his enduring contributions to the Nigerian Law School, recalling his previous interventions in Yenagoa and Port Harcourt, where he built what has been described as the best law school campus in the country.

“From staff quarters to student hostels, every intervention has made teaching and learning easier,” he noted. “This is what true service and responsible governance look like.”

Earlier in his remarks, the Director-General of the Nigerian Law School, Prof. Isa Hayatu Chiroma (SAN), hailed the flag-off as the fulfillment of a promise made by the FCT Minister. He thanked President Tinubu for approving the project and lauded Wike’s sustained support for legal education.

“This project will go a long way in assisting the Law School to fulfill its mandate,” Chiroma said. “The FCT Minister has a track record of support from Port Harcourt to Yenagoa and posterity will be kind to him for his lasting contributions to legal education in Nigeria.”

The event was attended by senior members of the judiciary, top officials of the Council of Legal Education, and representatives from the Ministry of Justice, who described the projects as a milestone in the advancement of legal education and justice delivery in Nigeria.

Troops Uncover Hidden Weapons Cache in Plateau, Intensify Manhunt for Fugitive Bandit

Olajumoke Sanusi
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Troops Uncover Hidden Weapons Cache in Plateau, Intensify Manhunt for Fugitive Bandit

Troops of the 3 Division and the Joint Task Force, Operation Enduring Peace (JTF OPEP), have recovered a cache of arms and ammunition during a special operation in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State.

The operation, according to the military, followed credible intelligence that bandits were stockpiling weapons in the area as part of an illegal arms network.

In a statement, Major Samson Zhakom, Media Information Officer of Operation Enduring Peace, said troops raided the hideout of a notorious bandit in Rawaya Village near Kazok, Barkin Ladi. Although the suspect fled before the troops arrived, a thorough search of the hideout led to the discovery of a large cache of weapons.

Recovered items included two AK-47 rifles, one G3 rifle, one revolver pistol, four AK-47 magazines, three G3 magazines, 1,198 rounds of 7.62mm (special) ammunition, four rounds of 7.62mm (NATO) ammunition, three mobile phones, and other assorted materials.

Major Zhakom stated that the recovered weapons are now in military custody for further investigation, adding that efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspect and his accomplices.

He emphasized that the operation demonstrates the military’s commitment to dismantling criminal networks and halting the spread of illegal arms across Plateau State.

Zhakom assured residents that Operation Enduring Peace remains steadfast in ensuring safety, stability, and peace across the Joint Operations Area.

Presidency Seeks Sanction Against Nnamdi Kanu’s Lawyer Over #FreeNnamdiKanu Protest

Saladin Babagana
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Presidency Seeks Sanction Against Nnamdi Kanu’s Lawyer Over #FreeNnamdiKanu Protest

The Presidency has called on legal regulatory bodies to sanction one of the lawyers representing the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, Mr. Aloy Ejimakor, for participating in the ongoing #FreeNnamdiKanu protest in Abuja.

Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, made the call on Monday via his official X (formerly Twitter) handle, describing Ejimakor’s action as “unethical and subversive to ongoing judicial proceedings.”

Onanuga criticised Ejimakor for joining the protest organised by human rights activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, insisting that the lawyer’s conduct violated the legal principle of sub judice, since Kanu’s trial is still before a competent court.

“I spotted Aloy Ejimakor among the small group of protesters mobilised by Sowore. As a lawyer, he should know better. His participation undermines the judicial process,” Onanuga stated.

He further accused Ejimakor of resorting to “extra-legal tactics” instead of focusing on defending his client in court, adding that such actions cast doubt on his professional ethics.

The presidential aide urged the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee (LPDC) to review Ejimakor’s conduct and apply appropriate sanctions if found guilty of misconduct.

Presidency Seeks Sanction Against Nnamdi Kanu’s Lawyer Over #FreeNnamdiKanu Protest

Olajumoke Sanusi
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Presidency Seeks Sanction Against Nnamdi Kanu’s Lawyer Over #FreeNnamdiKanu Protest

The Presidency has called on legal regulatory bodies to sanction one of the lawyers representing the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, Mr. Aloy Ejimakor, for participating in the ongoing #FreeNnamdiKanu protest in Abuja.

Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, made the call on Monday via his official X (formerly Twitter) handle, describing Ejimakor’s action as “unethical and subversive to ongoing judicial proceedings.”

Onanuga criticised Ejimakor for joining the protest organised by human rights activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, insisting that the lawyer’s conduct violated the legal principle of sub judice, since Kanu’s trial is still before a competent court.

“I spotted Aloy Ejimakor among the small group of protesters mobilised by Sowore. As a lawyer, he should know better. His participation undermines the judicial process,” Onanuga stated.

He further accused Ejimakor of resorting to “extra-legal tactics” instead of focusing on defending his client in court, adding that such actions cast doubt on his professional ethics.

The presidential aide urged the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee (LPDC) to review Ejimakor’s conduct and apply appropriate sanctions if found guilty of misconduct.

“FG Throws Full Support Behind Military as Coup Rumour Sparks Political Upheaval”

Gladys Phillip
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“FG Throws Full Support Behind Military as Coup Rumour Sparks Political Upheaval”

The Federal Government of Nigeria (FG) has publicly backed the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) after reports of an alleged coup attempt circulated widely.

The rumour initially published by an online outlet and linking the cancellation of Nigeria’s 65th Independence Day parade to a supposed coup plot and the detention of 16 military officers was dismissed by the military as “false” and “intended to cause unnecessary tension”.

In response, Information Minister Mohammed Idris reaffirmed the government’s trust in the military, saying there is “no reason to doubt” its statement, and that the FG will continue to support efforts to protect the nation’s security.

Opposition parties and civic groups, however, demanded transparency about the nature of the investigation involving the 16 officers, warning that mere denial is not sufficient.

Meanwhile, the pan-Yoruba socio-political group Afenifere reiterated its strong commitment to democracy and condemned any attempt to change government by force pointing out Nigeria’s past era of military rule as a warning.

Lagos Police Tighten Security at Lekki, Ojota, Assure Residents of Peace

Ola Akinola
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Lagos Police Tighten Security at Lekki, Ojota, Assure Residents of Peace

The Lagos State Police Command has deployed personnel to major flashpoints across the state, including Lekki Toll Gate, Ojota, Maryland, and Gani Fawehinmi Park, to maintain peace amid reports of protests in parts of the country.

Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Jimoh, gave the assurance during a “Show of Force” in Ikeja on Monday, emphasizing that Lagos remains safe and calm.

He said the exercise was aimed at reassuring residents and deterring troublemakers from disrupting public order.
“Protests are allowed anywhere in the world, but once you take the law into your hands and disrupt peace, that ceases to be a protest,” Jimoh stated.

He confirmed that all police formations have been directed to provide real-time situation reports every 15 minutes, noting that there have been no incidents of unrest or traffic disruption across the metropolis.

“Lagos is peaceful, and residents can go about their lawful businesses without fear,” he added.

History Made as Morocco Wins First-Ever FIFA U-20 World Cup, Zabiri Shines with Stunning Brace

Uche Kingsley
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History Made as Morocco Wins First-Ever FIFA U-20 World Cup, Zabiri Shines with Stunning Brace

Morocco etched its name in football history by winning the FIFA U-20 World Cup for the first time, defeating Argentina 2–0 in a thrilling final in Chile. The North Africans became only the second African nation to lift the trophy, following Ghana’s triumph in 2009.

Teenage sensation Mohamed Zabiri was the hero of the night, scoring both goals to secure Morocco’s historic victory. The team dazzled throughout the tournament, winning all their matches except one—a narrow group-stage loss to Mexico.

Othmane Maamma of Morocco won the Golden Ball as the tournament’s best player, while Yassir Zabiri claimed the Silver Ball. Argentina’s Milton Delgado settled for the Bronze Ball.

The Golden Boot went to Benjamin Cremaschi of the USA with five goals, edging Colombia’s Neyser Villareal on goal difference, while France’s Lucas Michal picked up the Bronze Boot. Argentina’s Santino Barbi earned the Golden Glove for his outstanding goalkeeping, and the Fair Play Award went to the USA for exemplary sportsmanship.

Morocco’s triumph marks a new chapter for African football, proving once again that the continent’s young talents can shine on the global stage.

EndSARS @5: Justice Still Denied as Victims, Lawyers Decry Government Inaction

Saladin Babagana
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EndSARS @5: Justice Still Denied as Victims, Lawyers Decry Government Inaction

Five years after the #EndSARS protests that shook Nigeria, victims and human rights lawyers say justice remains elusive, accusing government institutions of ignoring court rulings and panel recommendations.

The nationwide demonstrations of October 2020 began as a youth uprising against police brutality but ended in bloodshed, most notably at the Lekki Toll Gate, where soldiers allegedly opened fire on unarmed protesters. Despite findings by judicial panels confirming rights violations and recommending compensation, most victims are yet to be paid, and no security official has faced prosecution.

Former NBA Welfare Secretary, Kunle Edun, SAN, described #EndSARS as “a dark page in Nigeria’s history”, lamenting that disobedience to court judgments undermines democracy. Human rights lawyer Deji Adeyanju blamed “a culture of impunity and lack of political will” for the stalled implementation of panel reports.

Similarly, Amanda Demechi-Asagba, who served on the Lagos Judicial Panel, said victims deserve “restitution, not rhetoric”, while Evan Ufeli of Cadrell Advocacy Centre accused government agencies of “institutional cover-ups” that frustrate accountability.

As Nigeria marks the fifth anniversary, activists warn that without genuine police reform and enforcement of justice, the grievances that fueled the 2020 protests could resurface. The call for justice, they insist, still echoes: “Soro Soke — speak up!”

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