Ridoola's blog

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has commended Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau over the various programmes initiated to promote peaceful coexistence in the state. Obasanjo gave the commendation on Friday at the ongoing maiden edition of the Interdenominational Unity Christmas Carol and Praise Festival organised by the Plateau Government. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Obasanjo was the Guest of Honour at the event, while former Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon, served as the Special Guest of Honour. According to Obasanjo, the unity Christmas carol was one of the initiatives of the Mutfwang-led administration to unite the state. The former Nigerian leader, who blamed the state's lack of unity and peace on the absence of love for one another, promised to support Mutfwang's success. “I believe that this initiative came from God and God who put it in you will continue to make it grow. “Where there is love, there will not be disputes and conflicts; there wil...

The Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has promised to deliver the NYSC permanent orientation camp at Agbowa, Ikorodu, before 2024 ends. Governor Sanwo-Olu gave the assurance at the swearing-in of the 2024 Batch C Stream 1 corps members on Friday. The event was held at the NYSC temporary orientation camp, Iyana-Ipaja, Lagos State. Sanwo-Olu was represented by the state Commissioner for Youth and Social Development,  Mobolaji Ogunlende . According to the governor, the permanent orientation camp would be ready in December. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that 4,335 corps members consisting of 1,484 males and 2,851 females would be serving in Lagos State under the stream. However, some of them were sent to Oyo and Osun states for the orientation course. Sanwo-Olu called on corps members deployed to the state to embrace the orientation programmes to be better. “You will find here in camp, various mentorship and entrepreneurial programmes and activities under the...

The Minister of State for Education, Dr Suwaiba Ahmad has pledged to introduce sewing skills development in state schools to promote the advancement of Nigerian children. Ahmad said this when the leadership of the Non-Governmental Association of Literacy Support Services (NOGALSS) and the Ladi Memorial Foundation (LMF) paid her a courtesy visit in Abuja on Friday. The visit was intended to inform the minister about the upcoming National Sewing Competition for young schoolchildren across the country. The minister noted the importance of skill empowerment in a child’s growth and development, stressing the need for stakeholders to collaborate in promoting skill development. “Sewing is practical and easy to implement at the basic level simply because the skills required do not occupy too much space, and we have enough teachers who can handle it. “We are looking at skills not only in sewing but in other areas as well because sometimes these skills depend on your nature and passion, but...

The Anambra Police Command and a vigilance group in the state, on Friday, arrested a couple for allegedly issuing kidnap threats to unsuspecting members of the public. The command’s Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga , disclosed this to newsmen in Awka. Ikenga identified the couple as Kingsley Okoye and his wife, Chidinma . “Given reports of text messages and voice notes received by unsuspecting members of the public on threats of abduction, the Joint Security Force, comprising the police and Anambra Vigilance Group, acting on technology-driven information in the early hours of today, arrested a couple. “They are Mr Okoye Kingsley and Mrs Chidinma Okoye, 36 years and 27 years, respectively. “The duo were arrested in Ozubulu, Ekwusigo Local Government Area of the state,” he said. Ikenga said that the operatives recovered mobile phones and sim cards from them. According to him, the couple specialised in sending threatening messages to people and demanding ransom...

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has cautioned frozen food dealers to stop selling and distributing unregistered and prohibited products. The agency made this announcement on Friday during a one-day sensitisation programme at Kado Fish Market in Abuja. The Director-General of NAFDAC, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye , emphasised that the importation and distribution of banned products must stop to support local farmers and producers of frozen food. Adeyeye was represented by Kenneth Azikiwe, the Director in charge of the FCT Directorate. She reiterated NAFDAC’s commitment to eliminating the illegal production, distribution, and sale of unregistered packaged food, water, and other regulated products. She noted that the initiative aims to safeguard public health, particularly during the festive season. “This sensitisation programme is designed to ensure good storage and distribution practices in the market because properly stored food products mainta...

Senator Ali Ndume , representing Borno South, has expressed strong disapproval of President Bola Tinubu 's controversial tax reform bills, which recently passed a second reading in the Senate. Ndume, speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today, criticised the presidency and lawmakers for what he described as a rushed process, questioning the motives behind the urgency. “It is not that I am totally saying we should throw away the baby with the bathwater, but why the rush?” Ndume remarked, urging the presidency to heed the National Economic Council’s (NEC) recommendation to withdraw the bills for broader consultations. The NEC, comprising state governors, had earlier advised Tinubu to reconsider the bills, but the president insisted on legislative deliberation. Ndume compared the process to the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB), which he noted took years to pass despite its critical importance. “The PIB was introduced when I was in the House of Representatives but wasn’t pass...

Justice Binta Murtala Nyako of the Federal High Court in Abuja has dismissed the electricity theft charges filed against property developer Mr Cecil Osakwe. The decision followed the withdrawal of the case by the office of the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice. Delivering her ruling, Justice Nyako stated, “It is hereby ordered that, as requested by the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation, the charge be struck out. The defendant is hereby discharged.” The federal government initially accused Osakwe of tampering with electricity metres on one of his properties, with the case garnering public attention. However, inconsistencies in the evidence presented by prosecution witnesses appeared to undermine the case. At a previous hearing, the trial stalled due to discrepancies in the testimony of Mr John Suleiman, a key prosecution witness. Suleiman claimed to have identified tampered metres but failed to provide corresponding documentation. Defence ...

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is gearing up to transmit a list of ambassadorial nominees to the Senate for screening and confirmation, marking a significant step in addressing Nigeria's prolonged diplomatic vacuum. This move follows the recall of 83 ambassadors in September 2023, leaving Nigeria’s 109 missions, 76 embassies, 22 high commissions, and 11 consulates globally without substantive leadership. Sources within the government confirmed that the names of the prospective ambassadors would be sent to the Senate in early December. However, due to procedural and diplomatic protocols, the nominees are not expected to begin their tour of duty until months later. A Diplomatic Reset Upon assuming office in May 2023, Tinubu initiated a reassessment of Nigeria’s foreign policy, which resulted in the recall of ambassadors by October 31, 2023. Minister of Foreign Affairs Yusuf Tuggar emphasised the President’s prerogative in such decisions, stating, “Ambassadors serve at the Presiden...

The United Kingdom’s newly-elected Conservative Party leader, Kemi Badenoch, has pledged to implement stringent immigration reforms, warning that the rapid pace of migration is straining public services and undermining national cohesion. Speaking at Westminster on Wednesday, November 27, Badenoch outlined her vision for a recalibrated immigration system designed to protect Britain’s resources and foster integration. “Immigration is at a pace too fast to maintain public services,” Badenoch asserted, acknowledging past failures by successive Conservative governments. She added, “For decades, the political class has presided over mass migration… The system that replaced free movement is not working.” To address these challenges, Badenoch proposed a hard annual cap on legal immigration, although she stopped short of specifying numbers. She argued that such measures are essential to prevent the overburdening of critical sectors like healthcare, housing, and wages. “Without a shared n...

President Bola Tinubu has appointed Jamiu Abiola as the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Linguistics and Foreign Matters. The appointee is one of the children of the late Chief Moshood Kolawole Abiola , the winner of the 1993 presidential election annulled by General Ibrahim Babangida . According to a statement by Segun Imohiosen , the Director of Information and Public Relations, Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation on Wednesday, November 27, 2024, Jamiu's appointment took effect from November 14, 2024. Imohiosen said the appointment aligns with the provisions of the Certain Political and Judicial Office Holders (Salaries and Allowances, etc) Act 2008, as amended. Until his recent deployment, the appointee served as the Special Assistant to the President of Special Duties in the office of the Vice President. Tinubu tasked Jamiu to work closely with the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs and bring his wealth of experience to bear in his new ...

Skin tone misrepresentation in smartphone imaging is a burning issue for underrepresented users in emerging markets around the world. Universal Tone Technology, an advanced AI-powered multi-skin tone imaging technology, which was first unveiled in 2023, is TECNO’s solution to this challenge. The brand’s new #ToneProudcampaign is aimed at promoting inclusivity and diversity in smartphone imaging. We sat down with Elva Zhou, Director of Image Quality Testing and Assessment Department (IQA)at TECNO Image Quality Testing Lab, to discuss the technology, its importance, and its value for users. Why the need for the Universal Tone Technology According to Zhou, TECNO Universal Tone Technology was developed for the purpose of capturing accurate and proper representations of the color and texture of every skin tone in smartphone photography. Zhou reckons that there are a number of challenges to address in the course of this innovative venture. She explains why other technologies do not meet t...

For over 40 years, Haier Thermocool has been a top choice for Nigerians, consistently delivering reliable and innovative appliances built to meet household and business needs. The dedication to quality keeps Nigerians returning for products they can depend on and Haier Thermocool is setting the bar even higher, proving once again that it is committed to enhancing daily life. At this pace, Haier Thermocool is on track to become a household and business essential across Nigeria, with its latest innovative product lineup. Let’s take a closer look at some of the latest offerings that are making a mark in the market. 1. The Haier Thermocool Inverter Turbo Freezer The Haier Thermocool Freezer features a Turbo fan that circulates cold air for quick and even freezing. This freezer operates efficiently without the need for a stabilizer and reduces electricity consumption by up to 50%. It is perfect for households and businesses seeking reliability, efficiency, and speed in their freezing s...

The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs , Amb. Bianca Ojukwu , has appealed to the Federal Government to release the leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra, Nnamdi Kanu. Kanu, who has been in the DSS custody since 2021, is being tried for alleged treason. The wife of the late Odumegwu Ojukwu made the call in a speech at the 13th Memorial Anniversary of her husband held on Tuesday in Owerri. It had “Unifying the Igbo Race” as its theme. She advised the people of the South-East to look inwards and appraise the Igbo race that made them who they are. The minister admonished them to be their brother’s keeper and love one another. “In the olden days, we had Igbo unions in places like Kano, Lagos and Kaduna, among others, where people discussed matters affecting them and why they must unite. “Today, we are celebrating Ojukwu, our uncommon man, a man who stood for peace and equality for every person,” she said. She expressed dissatisfaction that the peaceful atmosphere...

Nigeria's struggle to manage the rising cost of living has led to a concerning housing shortage across the country. Major cities such as Abuja, Lagos, and Port Harcourt have seen a significant population surge, but the accessibility of affordable housing remains a pressing challenge. Reacting to this development, the Chief Executive Officer of NISH Affordable Housing Ltd., Dr Saheed Adelakun , has called for a sustainable, affordable, and revolving housing finance mechanism to address Nigeria's alarming housing deficit. Speaking at the 7th Nigeria Affordable Housing Finance and Innovation Summit and Expo (NAHFIS 2024) in Abuja, Adelakun emphasised the critical role of housing in national development. He described housing as a fundamental human need alongside food. "When people are not properly housed, anything can follow, like medical issues," he said. Adelakun noted that effective housing policies would not only benefit citizens but also boost the economy. ...

Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye, the former Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development sacked by President Bola Tinubu, has returned to the court to resume her law practice. In a video posted on her X (formerly Twitter) page Kennedy-Ohanenye revealed that her return to the court was to support a young girl who her class teacher allegedly raped. Kennedy-Ohanenye explained that she was in court to ensure justice was served, stating that her passion for justice remains unwavering. “I remain committed to fighting for a better society. My passion for justice remains unwavering, and I will not tolerate any form of abuse, especially against vulnerable Nigerians, including children. “Today, I represented a heart-wrenching case involving a 5-year-old girl who was sexually abused by her class teacher. This incident strengthens my resolve to combat such heinous crimes. “To those who would dare perpetrate such atrocities, let this serve as a warning. I will pursue justice relentlessly in my capaci...

Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe of Abia South has claimed Nigeria would have fared better under a Peter Obi presidency. Speaking on Politics Today on Channels Television, Abaribe highlighted nepotism as a defining flaw of the Bola Tinubu administration, stating, “If Peter Obi had won, you probably would have seen a better Nigeria than what we are seeing today.” The senator argued that Obi’s inclusive leadership style would have curbed nepotism, contrasting it with Tinubu’s appointment of four ministers from Ogun State, while some states have only one. “Nepotism has deepened because Buhari did it, and nobody said much,” Abaribe noted. Addressing the South East’s challenges, Abaribe urged its people to prioritise regional development. He criticised past governments, stating, “Apart from Obasanjo and Jonathan, no president has been fair to the South East .” Abaribe backs Ekpa’s arrest - appeals for Nnamdi Kanu's release The senator commended the arrest of Simon Ekpa , a Finland-ba...

Opposition lawmakers have accused the acting national chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Umar Damagum, and ex-Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike of orchestrating a scheme to weaken the party and maintain Damagum's leadership until 2027. The allegations were made during a press conference in Akokwa, Imo State, on Sunday, November 24. The coalition’s spokesperson, Hon. Ikenga Ugochinyere, stated that PDP leaders, including its National Working Committee (NWC) and state chairmen, were collaborating to undermine the opposition’s effectiveness. He alleged that their plan involved delaying the appointment of a substantive national chairman and endorsing President Bola Tinubu ’s 2027 re-election bid. “Damagum’s continued stay is a strategy to foist a weak leadership on the party. They have turned the PDP into an errand platform for the ruling party,” Ugochinyere said. He further accused PDP leaders of cosying up to All Progressives Congress (APC) officials, including hol...

Vice President Kashim Shettima has been billed as the host of the biggest convergence of young African chief executives and leaders driving innovation and progress across the African continent. The event organised by CEOs Network Africa has been slated for Sunday, December 15, at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa, Abuja. Speaking on the significance of the event, Alli-Bob Cinwon, Founder of CEOs Network Africa, expressed immense pride in the achievements of African youth. “This year’s gala underscores the boundless potential and resilience of African youth. The overwhelming number of high-quality nominations we received—over 14,000—proves that Africa is truly on the rise,” Cinwon said. He added, “ We are proud to provide a platform to showcase the leaders shaping our continent’s future.”Joining him, Co-founder Omojo Wada highlighted the calibre of nominees, describing them as trailblazers. “The ingenuity and tenacity of young Africans are remarkable. It’s inspiring to see...

The Celestial Church of Christ (CCC) Testimony Parish in the Egbeda area of Oyo state has solicited financial contributions to buy new cows after thieves carted away the ones meant for a harvest celebration. In an appeal on its Facebook page, the church disclosed that the stolen cows, bought at N1.9 million, were meant for its annual Adult Harvest Thanksgiving celebration. The church revealed that the incident occurred at its premises on November 11 as it prepared for the celebration scheduled for November 17, 2024. However, after days of searching for the missing sacrificial materials, the church resorted to seeking financial help to buy new cows for the celebration. Dear Celestians and The General public, These 2 Huge Cows were stolen where they were Tied in The Church Premises at CCC Testimony parish Elerumoke Area, Egbeda, Iyana Ajia and were meant for slaughter for the 9th adult harvest thanksgiving of the church coming up this Sunday 17th November 2024. We hereby solicit y...

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has urged African youths battling drug and substance addiction not to hide their plight but to seek help to be free from the ills. He also admonished the youths to stay away from drugs, warning that it can destroy not just their dreams but also their lives. Obasanjo gave the advice at the 2nd edition of the 'Fly Above The High' sensitisation programme on drug abuse, organised by the Recovery Advocacy Network, in Abeokuta, Ogun State capital, on Saturday, November 23, 2024. The octogenarian, who stressed that substance abuse can be destructive, highlighted how the menace has continued to grow in sub-Saharan Africa over the years. He noted that “ drug consumption in Africa is an issue and it has grown worse in the last 10 years.” The elder statesman called on youths hooked on drugs not to hide but to seek help to get off the catastrophic effects of addiction, which include untimely death. While serving as the Chairman of the West African ...

Governor Siminalayi Fubara, on Friday, prayed to the Court of Appeal to set aside the judgment that barred the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) from releasing monthly allocations to Rivers. The governor, through his counsel Yusuf Ali , SAN, prayed a three-member panel of the appellate court led by Justice Hamma Barka , to vacate the high court order which he said was issued in bad faith. He urged the appellate court to allow his appeal marked CA/ABJ/CV/1303/2024 and nullify adverse orders that Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court made against the state in the judgment she delivered on Oct. 30. Fubara’s plea came on a day the Justice Barka-led panel consolidated five other appeals that arose from the said judgment of the high court. The appeals were marked as: CA/ABJ/CV/1277/24, CA/ABJ/CV/1196/24, CA/ABJ/CV/1287/24, CA/ABJ/CV/1293/24 and CA/ABJ/CV/1360/2024. Aside from Fubara, other appellants in the matter are the Rivers State Government, the Accountant-General of Rive...

The Labour Party (LP) has dismissed the video making the rounds in social media that its leadership was partnering with President Bola Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections. Obiora Ifoh , National Publicity Secretary, LP said this in a statement on Friday in Abuja. According to Ifoh, the party has debunked the allegations that it has an understanding with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to collaborate in the 2027 general election. As a matter of fact, the Labour Party is the most visible opposition party as of today and our National Chairman, Barrister Abure is the leading voice in the opposition camp, and has been most critical of the present government. After the 2023 general election, it continued to interrogate the system’s failure and has been very visible playing the role of the opposition, continuously critiquing the policies, proffering solutions and advising the government. Recently, the party under the able leadership of Julius Abure came up with a seri...

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has reignited the call for the sack of Mahmood Yakubu, Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) over the flaws in Nigeria's election process. Speaking at the Chinua Achebe Leadership Forum at Yale University, United States last weekend where he presented a paper titled “Leadership failure and state capture in Nigeria," Obasanjo demanded the removal of Yakubu and other INEC officials at all levels as part of his proposed reformation of the electoral system to restore credibility and trust. The former President, who described the 2023 general elections as a "travesty," advocated for shorter tenures for INEC officials and a more rigorous vetting process to screen out partisan individuals and ensure the emergence of people with impeccable reputations. As is usually the case, Obasanjo's remarks have sparked a debate about Nigeria's electoral journey, which called for examining the progress achieved and...

The Minister of Defence, Alhaji Badaru Abubakar, says that President Bola Tinubu remains committed to ending all forms of insecurity in the South-East and Cross River. Abubakar said this on Thursday in Enugu while addressing heads of security agencies and security stakeholders in the South-East and Cross River. He said that the Tinubu-led administration had done well in the past year in the fight against insecurity throughout the country, particularly in the South-East and Cross River axis. There is a renewed determination to do more in the fight against all forms of insecurity by President Tinubu. President Tinubu has directed me to come and engage with you to find a lasting solution to insecurity as without security, there would be no peace and development. I know that people of this zone are predominantly businessmen and women who need security and peace for their businesses to flourish. “ We need to get candid suggestions and information on how we will practically do more ...

The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has urged President Bola Tinubu to reconsider his administration’s economic and security policies, citing worsening conditions in northern Nigeria. In a communique issued after a National Executive Council meeting in Kaduna, the ACF criticised the Federal Government for its perceived insensitivity to Nigerians' plight. "Economic reforms, while desirable, should not impoverish the same people they are meant to serve," said Prof Tukur Muhammad-Baba, ACF’s National Publicity Secretary. The forum highlighted escalating insecurity, an ailing education system, and growing economic hardship in the region. "Security is the irreducible minimum of human existence. The government must safeguard lives and property," the statement read, condemning the rise in banditry, kidnappings, and terrorism. Education also emerged as a key concern. The North accounts for a significant proportion of out-of-school children nationwide. "A lo...

President Bola Tinubu has dismissed Engr. Ohieku Muhammed Salami as Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of the Federal University of Health Sciences, Otukpo (FUHSO), Benue State. The decision, announced Wednesday, November 20, was attributed to Salami’s disregard for Ministry of Education directives, which exacerbated the institution's ongoing leadership crisis. In a statement signed by Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga , the presidency cited Salami’s suspension of FUHSO’s pioneer Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Innocent Ujah , without due process. The action, deemed illegal by the Ministry of Education, led to directives for Ujah’s reinstatement, which Salami refused to obey. “Despite the Federal Ministry of Education's call to revoke the unlawful suspension, Engr. Salami refused to comply and resorted to abusive and threatening behaviour towards Ministry officials, including the Permanent Secretary,” the statement said. The ministry had p...

A 17-year-old boy, Samuel Onyeme , was allegedly beaten and locked in a dog cage after visiting his female classmate, Anastasia Celestine , at her home in Asaba, Delta State, on Sunday, November 17, 2024. Samuel, a Senior Secondary student at Redeemers International High School, had gone to see Anastasia after she invited him. However, things quickly escalated when he was attacked by Anastasia’s father and two of his sons. According to Samuel’s mother, the assault occurred as Samuel and Anastasia were talking outside the house.  The Celestine family dragged him into their compound, beat him with wooden planks, and locked him in a dog cage. They also took Samuel’s phone and used it to call his mother, tricking her into coming to the scene. Upon arriving, she was denied access to her son for two hours. Samuel’s sister, Jessica , who was outside trying to get help, was also reportedly attacked by members of the Celestine family when she tried to re-enter the compound. The s...

President Bola Tinubu’s media team has become a subject of public debate following recent appointments and conflicting roles among his aides. The controversy intensified when Daniel Bwala , a former member of Atiku Abubakar ’s campaign team, addressed the press as Tinubu’s spokesperson, a position previously held by Ajuri Ngelale . Bwala’s role has drawn criticism, with claims of overlapping duties within the president’s media structure. Bayo Onanuga , serving as Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, dismissed Bwala’s significance, with Atiku’s aide, Phrank Shaibu , taking to social media to mock the situation. Shaibu wrote on X, "Speed without control leads to ruin but @aonanuga1956, with the relish of an elder, wasted no time in declaring that @BwalaDaniel was, in fact, a Special Adviser on NOTHING. In a govt that names someone an S.A. on Policy Comms., one must ask: what policies are there to talk about?" Showunmi slams Tinubu over ‘cacophony’ of media...

Senator Ali Ndume has appealed to the Nigerian Senate to allow the widow of late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah to succeed him as the representative for Anambra South Senatorial District. Ndume made this request on Tuesday, November 19, during a valedictory session held in honour of Ubah, who passed away in July at the age of 52. Addressing his colleagues, Ndume highlighted the importance of preserving Ubah’s legacy and aspirations. "What I want to appeal to you, Mr. President, is that we keep the spirit and aspirations of Ifeanyi alive," he said. Citing historical precedents, Ndume referenced instances where family members succeeded late political figures. "When Chuba Okadigbo, a great politician, passed away, his wife, Margery, joined the Senate and carried on his legacy," he noted. He also mentioned the First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu , who served in the Senate following the goodwill generated by her husband’s tenure as governor. Ndume cited other examples, including S...

The Ogun State Police Command has invited Ladi Adebutu, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in the 2023 elections, to its headquarters in Abeokuta. This follows his recent questioning by the Department of State Services (DSS). The police invitation is reportedly tied to alleged disturbances during the November 16 local government elections, in which the All Progressives Congress (APC) claimed all seats. Adebutu is accused of recruiting about 40 unauthorised police officers from Lagos and mobilising PDP supporters to disrupt the polls. Though police confirmation remains pending, sources indicate that Adebutu is still at the police command headquarters. This development follows his release on Tuesday, November 19, after a DSS grilling. Adebutu strongly denied the accusations, asserting that the actions against him were politically motivated. "The allegations were so baseless that it became clear their purpose was to silence me as a voice of the opposition,...

The House Committee on Navy assured Nigerians that legislative due diligence would guide the Committee’s decision, underscoring its impartiality in evaluating the Bill. The proposed Bill to establish the Nigerian Marine Corps (HB 225) has been met with fierce opposition from lawmakers, security agencies, and civil society organisations during a public hearing conducted by the House Committee on Navy. The Bill, sponsored by Hon. Alex Egbona , aims to bolster maritime security and enhance the blue economy by creating a new federal body for maritime law enforcement and defence. However, deputy spokesperson of the House of Representatives, Hon. Philip Agbese , joined 66 lawmakers in rejecting the proposal, citing its potential to duplicate functions and burden existing structures. Agbese described the Bill as unnecessary, stating, “The creation of this new entity would only result in significant overlap, redundancy, and logistical strain, creating operational inefficiencies and impos...

Obasanjo's remarks come amidst growing concerns about the credibility of Nigeria's electoral process, following allegations of irregularities and inefficiencies in the 2023 polls. Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to dismiss the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and other top officials of the commission. Speaking at the Chinua Achebe Leadership Forum at Yale University, USA, Obasanjo criticised the conduct of the 2023 general elections, labelling it "a disaster." “The last election was a disaster. To restore trust in our electoral process, we must overhaul the leadership of INEC,” Obasanjo asserted. READ ALSO: Your policies are wrongly implemented, Obasanjo lambasts Tinubu Highlighting the urgent need for reforms, Obasanjo advocated for shorter tenures for INEC officials to prevent partisan appointments and reduce political interference. He emphasised that rebuilding the trust ...

The president was invited to the summit by his Brazilian counterpart, and will also hold other meetings during his time in Rio. President Bola Tinubu has arrived at Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, to attend the 19th Heads of State and Government Summit of the Group of 20 (G20). The President, who arrived on Sunday at 11.03 p.m. local time, (Monday 3. 03 a.m. Nigerian time), was received by Amb. Breno Costa in the Ministry of External Relations of Brazil. He was accompanied by Mr Yusuf Tuggar , Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr Idi Mukhtar Maiha , Minister of Livestock Development, and Hannatu Musawa , Minister of Art, Tourism, Culture and Creativity. Others are: Dr Aliyu Sabi Abdullahi , Minister of State for Agriculture and Food Security, and Amb. Mohammed Mohammed , Director General of the National Intelligence Agency. President Tinubu is also expected to hold bilateral meetings on the sidelines of the summit in advancement of Nigeria’s socio-economic reforms. Mr Lula da Silva , Presid...

The incumbent governor won by a landslide, emerging victorious in all 18 LGAs. Ondo State Governor, Mr Lucky Aiyedatiwa , has been announced winner of the state’s gubernatorial election held on Saturday. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared Aiyedatiwa’s victory after he won all 18 local government areas of the state. According to the State Returning Officer, Prof Olayemi Akinwumi , APC’s Aiyedatiwa garnered a total of 366,781 votes to defeat his closest rival, PDP’s Agboola Ajayi , who polled 117,845 votes. “That Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa of the APC having satisfied the requirement of the law is hereby declared the winner and is returned elected,” the returning officer said at the INEC collation centre in the state capital, Akure. Aiyedatiwa -a former deputy governor- became Ondo state governor after the death of former governor, Rotimi Akeredolu on December 27, 2024. In the build-up to the 2024 polls, he unsurprisingly clinched APC's ticket. After ...