₦airaland Forum

ekhai:
MY GOVERNOR MONDAY OKPEBHOLO, IN OKPEKPE, FULANI HERDERS HAVE SLAUGHTERED UP TO SIX PERSONS LIKE COW IN RECENT TIME , IN AGENEBODE AND OTHER EDO NORTH COMMUNITIES SAME THING. HAVE ANY GOVERNOR OF THE NORTH EVER VISITED EDO STATE TO PAY CONDOLENCES OR PAY COMPENSATION TO ANY FAMILY. IS NORTHERS' LIVES MATTERS MORE THAN EDOS' LIVES?
WE SHOULD KNOW WHAT WE ARE DOING. ALL LIVES MATTERS.

Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, has demanded the public parade of the suspected killers of the 16 hunters and compensation for their families.

The governor handed down the demand during a condolence visit by his Edo counterpart, Monday Okpebholo, in Kano, on Monday.

The visit comes barely 48 hours after the remains of the hunters, who were lynched by a mob, were interred in Uromi, Edo State, on Saturday.

Members of the Hausa community converged on the community cemetery to pay their last respects to the victims, who were burnt to death last Thursday after they were accused of being kidnappers.

The hunters were travelling in a truck when they were intercepted by a vigilante group, and 16 of them were murdered while 10 escaped.

Speaking while hosting Okpebholo at the Kano Government House, Yusuf described the attack as disturbing, emphasising that Nigeria valued the sanctity of human life.

“This cowardly act contradicts the fundamental principles of our society, which are deeply rooted in both Islamic and Christian teachings.

"So far, 14 suspects have been arrested in connection with the killings. As Kano remains dear to my heart, we will continue to uphold the value of being our brother’s keeper,” he said.

Addressing concerns about possible reprisals by northerners, the governor said, “We have implemented strong security measures to prevent any reprisal attacks. We also urge that those arrested be publicly paraded to bring relief to the victims’ families and to ensure accountability.’’

"I call on Gov. Okpebholo to ensure that the families of the victims receive fair compensation for their loss. I also commend President Tinubu for his prompt response and commitment to justice by directing security agencies to pursue the perpetrators,” he noted.

Speaking earlier, Okpebholo condemned the brutal killing of the hunters in Udune, Uromi Local Government Area of the state, describing the attack as barbaric and unacceptable.

“I[b] was deeply saddened by this unfortunate incident. Upon my arrival, I met with my Hausa brothers, who had generously supported me during my election campaign,” Okpebholo said.[/b]

He further stated that President Bola Tinubu had directed the Inspector-General of Police and other security agencies to track down the perpetrators and ensure they faced justice.

“We have implemented robust security measures to hold all those involved accountable. Security agencies have already launched investigations to bring the culprits to justice,” he assured.

A statement by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, disclosed that some of the victims hailed from Bankure Local Government Area of Kano State.

It said the governor, deeply moved by the tragic incident, assured the bereaved families and the people of Kano State that justice would be served.

“I was deeply touched when I received the news of the incident at night. By 4 a.m., I left Abuja and rushed to Uromi to meet with the affected families. During my campaign, your people supported me, and I stand with you in this time of grief. I extend my condolences to the people of Kano State and pray for the eternal rest of the victims’ souls.

"We have made significant progress in our investigations. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is not happy about this incident and has directed security agencies to go after the culprits. I can assure you that justice will prevail.

“So far, about 14 suspects have been arrested, and after the holiday, they will be transferred to Abuja for further interrogation. More arrests will follow as investigations continue,” Okpebholo reportedly stated.

It said Yusuf commended Okpebholo for his swift intervention and support to the bereaved families.

The governor stated, “We appreciate the Governor of Edo State for his prompt response to this tragic event. It is well known that our people were returning from Port Harcourt when they were brutally murdered.

"The majority of the victims were from two local governments in Kano State. Governor Okpebholo immediately visited the scene, ensured that the corpses were retrieved, and arranged for their proper burial.

“He also made commitments to support the affected families, and I can confirm that he has fulfilled those promises.

"We trust his assurance that the culprits will be brought to book, as justice remains our utmost priority. The people of Kano are peaceful and hospitable. This tragedy serves as a lesson to all, and I urge all leaders across Nigeria to ensure the safety and protection of all citizens, regardless of their location. Governor Okpebholo’s visit today is a mark of true leadership, and we appreciate his gesture.”

Speaking on behalf of the Arewa community in Edo State, Badamasi Saleh, who was with Okpehbolo in Kano, reaffirmed the longstanding cordial relationship between the northern community and Edo people, emphasizing that the unfortunate event should not be used to tarnish the state’s image.

He added, “I was born and raised in Edo State, and we have always maintained a peaceful relationship with the people here. This incident should not be used to create division or smear the reputation of the Edo State Government.

“The swift response of the state government was commendable. Moreover, it was the people of Uromi who rescued some of the victims from the assailants. This tragedy will not change our bond with the people of Edo.”

The leader of the Edo community in Kano, Fred Akhigbe, also expressed appreciated Okpebholo’s visit, urging both communities to maintain peace and unity.

He added, “We are grateful to the Governor of Edo State for personally coming to Kano to express his condolences. When this tragic incident happened, there was apprehension, but we are reassured by the swift actions taken by both state governments. We sympathise with the people of Kano State and pray for the victims.

“I have lived in Kano for 52 years, and we must remember that we are all one. There is no need for conflict between us. We commend both governors for their leadership and commitment to justice.”

President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, similarly condemned the murder of the hunters, describing it as a senseless act of violence that has no place in society.

Akpabio also called on relevant authorities to conduct a proper investigation into the incident and bring the culprits to book to assuage the pain.

The former Akwa Ibom governor disclosed this in a condolence message released by his Special Assistant on Media, Jackson Udom.

Akpabio said, “I am deeply saddened and disturbed by the gruesome murder of 16 travellers in Edo State. This senseless act of violence is unacceptable and has no place in our society. I condemn in very strong terms this heinous crime.

"I also urge the relevant authorities to conduct a thorough investigation and ensure that the perpetrators of this barbaric act are brought to book and held accountable for their actions. As a people, we must work together to promote peace, unity, and understanding among our people.

“We cannot afford to let such acts of violence divide us or undermine our collective efforts to build a better Nigeria. My heartfelt condolences go to the families of the victims, the government of Edo State, and all those affected by this needless act.”

Speaking during a condolence visit to the Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau Jibrin, at his Maitama residence in Abuja, on Monday, Okpebholo pledged that the 14 suspects who were arrested in connection with the killings would be handed over to the police authorities in Abuja for further interrogation.

The governor extended his condolences to the Deputy President of the Senate, who is from Kano State, pledging that the state government will assist the families of the victims.

This was contained in a statement by the Special Adviser to the Deputy President of the Senate on Media and Publicity, Ismail Mudashir.

The Edo State governor, Monday Okpebholo, has assured the families of the 16 hunters killed in Uromi that he will provide full compensation for their loss.

Governor Okpebholo, accompanied by Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and other high-ranking dignitaries, paid a condolence visit to Torankawa in Bunkure Local Government Area. During the visit, he further pledged to support the bereaved families with cash and food donations.

Lamenting the killings of the innocent victims, Okpebholo, visibly angry, vowed in the village that the gruesome murders would not go unpunished.

“We will ensure that justice is served on those responsible for this heinous act,” he stated.

Meanwhile, hundreds of family members and supporters took to the streets in a peaceful protest, carrying placards with various inscriptions such as “We demand justice for the killings of our people,” “Hunters are not criminals,” and “We demand the speedy dispensation of justice in this matter.”

Protesters thronged the road leading to Torankawa village, voicing their demands. Many hunters, armed with their hunting weapons, joined the peaceful demonstration.

Similarly, other placards bore inscriptions such as “Killings in the North must stop,” “Northerners are peace-loving citizens,” and “Justice must prevail.”

Some hunters, visibly agitated, chanted war songs, brandishing weapons as the governor’s convoy passed, while local residents kept the situation under control.

The Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, arrived at the Kano State Government House on Monday to condole with the government and families of the 16 victims killed in Uromi, Edo State, last week.

His visit comes amid growing outrage in northern Nigeria over what many see as a targeted attack on traders from the region.

The victims, mostly from Kano and other northern states, were reportedly ambushed and killed in Uromi, a town in Edo’s Esan North-East Local Government Area.

The killings have sparked anger in northern Nigeria, with protests erupting in Kano, Katsina, and parts of Kaduna as citizens demand justice and better security for northerners residing in the South.

In Kano, youth groups and community leaders have accused the Edo State government of not doing enough to prevent such attacks, calling for swift action to apprehend the perpetrators.

During his visit, Governor Monday Okpebholo assured the Kano State government that his administration was working with security agencies to investigate the killings and bring those responsible to justice.

He also expressed sympathy for the bereaved families, emphasizing that violence against any ethnic or religious group must not be tolerated.

His visit comes as pressure mounts on both state and federal authorities to address growing concerns over ethnic tensions and insecurity across the country.

Blitzking:
Seem u know them well and seem u know where dey are coming from and where dey where going. All these grammar becos dem neva reach you.

Blitzking:
What were dey doing with a vehicle laden with arms and armunition and loads of cash..hunters my foot..in this current clime of insecurity...kidnapping...and what have you

Former Head of the Rivers State Civil Service, George Nwaeke, said he would provide evidence of public funds theft under the administration of suspended state governor Siminalayi Fubara to security operatives when called upon.

This is as he accused the Fubara’s administration of misappropriation.

Nwaeke stated this in a press briefing on Saturday, alleging that the theft of public funds under the suspended Rivers governor is mind-boggling.

“I cannot also give all my evidence to the media, some are sensitive. I will give details to the proper authorities when required of me.

“The level of stealing of public funds and assets witnessed in the last two years is mind-boggling.

“I have never experienced it in the history of the state as we also had the highest allocation ever within this period,” Nwaeke said.

Recall that on Friday, during a press conference in Abuja, Nwaeke claimed that Fubara directed Edison Ehie, his Chief of Staff, to burn down the Rivers House of Assembly.

He alleged that he was at the government house when a bag of money was handed over to Edison for that operation, stating that he does not know the amount inside.

Reacting to the claim, Fubara said the former Head of Service had been “compromised” and was being “coerced” to lie against him.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his commitment to national unity and collective progress, declaring that “nobody is bigger than Nigeria, including myself as President.”

He made this statement on Sunday while receiving a Sallah homage at the Presidential Villa in Abuja from a delegation of Federal Capital Territory (FCT) residents, led by FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike.

Speaking on governance and leadership, Tinubu reiterated that power is a temporary trust from God, emphasising the importance of humility and service to the people.

“I’m just a custodian of your trust. It is only Almighty Allah that gives power. He says, ‘If I give it to you, you must use it in the righteous way. You must be humane. You must follow my teachings.’”

Reflecting on the just-concluded Ramadan fasting and the ongoing Lenten season, Tinubu emphasised the values of discipline, tolerance, and shared responsibility in building a prosperous nation.

“We started with prayers. We end with prayers. We committed ourselves with discipline and faithful supplication, learning the teachings of Allah. Such discipline instills understanding, sharing, and partaking in family values that bring us together as one family,” he said.

President Tinubu praised Minister Wike for his transformational leadership in the FCT, acknowledging his efforts in infrastructure development, civil service reforms, and urban renewal projects.

“I must thank the Honourable Minister of the FCT. When we started, he came up with a lot of good ideas to liberate the bureaucracy and bring forward-looking, progressive thinking to the administration,” Tinubu stated.

He specifically highlighted Wike’s role in resolving long-standing issues related to property rights, revitalising abandoned projects, and improving public services such as healthcare and education.

“The health centres are being rehabilitated. The health facilities of the residents of the FCT are being upgraded. Our teachers at school are being rehabilitated, and buildings are furnished. Thank you, Wike,” he added.

The President urged Nigerians to prioritise national unity over personal ambitions, calling on citizens to embrace peace, harmony, and inclusivity regardless of ethnic or religious differences.

“We must continue to abide by the lessons of Ramadan. We must continue to share and remember the less privileged, the widows, and the have-nots, believing that we can share both in joy and in times of need. And we can believe that Nigeria is greater than any one of us – including myself as President,” he declared.

Tinubu also highlighted Wike’s ability to work effectively in the heart of northern Nigeria despite being from the South, calling it a testament to the strength of Nigeria’s diversity.

“Surprisingly, Nyesom Wike is not from the North. He’s from the southern part of Nigeria. And his ability to work in the centre of the northern part of Nigeria is bearing fruit. That is a very good reflection of our diversity that we must use for our prosperity,” Tinubu said.

After the event, Minister Wike spoke with reporters, expressing gratitude for the President’s recognition of his work.


When asked how he felt about being called “Mr. Infrastructure” by Tinubu, Wike responded, “I feel very happy that my boss has confidence in me. If your boss, in public, says that you are doing well, that is an encouragement for you to continue doing the job you’ve been assigned.”

He assured FCT residents that his administration would continue executing transformative projects, promising that the next phase of development would be even more ambitious.

“The committee is working, and you can be assured it can’t be less than what we did last time,” he stated.

Blitzking:
What were dey doing with a vehicle laden with arms and armunition and loads of cash..hunters my foot..in this current clime of insecurity...kidnapping...and what have you

MartinsD12:
They only acted as vigilante that goes after criminals and with the current insecurity in the country you can't blame them, even the so called northern hunters is uromi now a hunting ground, how are we sure they are really hunters or even likely kidnappers

Blitzking:
Okpebolo..you are a mad man...is this how you defend ur ppl..May the kidnap...kill...maim...and rape your family members.

The Conference of Professionals in the Peoples Democratic Party, CP-PDP, has cautioned the Rivers State Sole Administrator, Vice-Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd) to steer clear of the statutory allocation and all other funds accruable or released to the State.

The group said this in a statement made available to DAILY POST after its strategy meeting on Friday in Abuja.

In the statement signed by Barr. Obinna Nwachukwu, Protem National Coordinator, CP-PDP, he reminded Ibas that no provision of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended) granted him the power under any circumstance whatsoever to appropriate or disburse allocation or any fund accruable to Rivers State.


According to him, “The Conference draws the attention of Vice-Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd) to the express provision of Section 120 (3) (4) of the 1999 Constitution which provides that;

“No money shall be withdrawn from any public fund of the State, other than the Consolidated Revenue Fund of the State, unless the issue of these moneys has been authorized by a law of the House of Assembly of the State.

“No money shall be withdrawn from the Consolidated Revenue Fund of the State of any other public Fund of the State except in the manner Prescribed by the House of Assembly”.

He added that “Section 121 (1) of the 1999 Constitution is clear in empowering only the democratically elected Governor of the State to prepare and lay the State’s revenue and expenditure estimates before the State House of Assembly for appropriation and authorization for spending.

"Vice-Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd) should note that his appointment by President Tinubu as Sole Administrator of Rivers State even with the endorsement of the National Assembly, remains illegal as it is completely inconsistent with the provisions of the 1999 Constitution, with specific reference to Section 5(2) which provides that the executive powers of a State shall be vested only in the democratically elected governor of the State.

"Vice-Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd) is particularly referred to Section 1(3) of the 1999 Constitution which provides that ‘if any other law is inconsistent with the provisions of this constitution, this Constitution shall prevail and that other law, to the extent of the inconsistency be void’.

"The endorsement of his appointment by the National Assembly is therefore void not being consistent with the provision of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).”

The CP-PDP said it was putting the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on notice regarding any withdrawal and spending of Rivers State public funds by Ibas.

“Our Foreign Affairs experts will be petitioning international bodies for appropriate sanctions including Visa ban for individuals and the families of individuals involved in undermining democracy in Nigeria, particularly in Rivers State.

"CP-PDP again commends the courage of the State Governors elected on the platform of the PDP in approaching the Supreme Court on the matter of Rivers State in the efforts to preserve democracy in the country,” it further stated.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has said that he does not know if he will contest the presidency in 2027.

Atiku made the remark in a yet-to-be-aired interview for a television show, Untold Stories, with Adesuwa Giwa-Osagie, scheduled for broadcast today but exclusively obtained by Daily Trust.

The former presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) recently announced the formation of a coalition of opposition leaders to wrest power from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027.

However, there has been widespread speculation about who will lead the coalition and emerge as its presidential candidate, with former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi and former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, being considered among its key figures.

When asked if he would be running for the presidency in 2027, Atiku said: “I don’t know because there has to be, first of all, a viable platform, more than any other time in the political history of this country, particularly since the return of democracy.”

Atiku, who has run for the presidency a record six times, did not rule out the possibility of contesting again in 2027.

“I have not seen Nigeria in dire need of, you know, an experienced and credible leadership than this time.

“We had a similar, you know, what would I say, merger in 2014. About four of us or is it three? We all ran for president and one of us emerged, and we all supported the one who emerged, and he won,” he said.

He agreed with former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s assertion that Nigeria’s democracy is deteriorating, saying the situation is “very dire.”

“No doubt about that,” he said.

Atiku also expressed his disappointment with the country’s political leadership.

“The next generation after me, many of them had been governors, had been senators. Instead of me to see an improvement in the level of governance at the state level and so on and so forth, I don’t see it. So I feel a little bit distressed.”

Atiku also questioned the credibility of the current legislative leadership, especially as it relates to the National Assembly’s ratification of the state of emergency in Rivers State

“I am not surprised,” he said, alleging that they are corrupt.

Why I didn’t pick Wike as running mate in 2023
The former vice president also addressed his decision not to choose the current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, as his running mate in the 2023 election.

Many observers believe this decision played a role in the leadership crisis that has rocked the PDP since then.

There were speculations that the decision not to pick Wike contributed to Atiku’s loss at the poll, as the former Rivers State governor led five other PDP governors to rebel against the party’s choice. Wike later boasted about working against Atiku and delivering Rivers State for President Tinubu.

However, Atiku said he had no regrets about not picking Wike.

“No, not at all,” he said.

Explaining his decision, Atiku recalled that he was accused of failing to consult widely when he picked Peter Obi as his running mate in 2019.

"In 2019, when I won the ticket in Port Harcourt, I came back here and then went straight to Abeokuta to meet my boss, President Obasanjo, and told him, ‘Mr. President, I have got the ticket.’ So he asked me, he said, ‘Okay, from where is your running mate going to come from?’ I said, of course, it’s either South-east or South-west. He said, ‘No, leave South-west because I was there for eight years. Go to the South-east.’ I said, ‘Okay, sir.’

Atiku said when he asked Obasanjo for a nomination, the former president suggested Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the current Director General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), who had previously served as Nigeria’s Minister of Finance.

“So I told him Ngozi was not a member of our party. I believe if I forward the name to the party, they will reject it. He said, ‘Okay. What about Soludo?’ I said Soludo too was not a member of our party, so they will not accept.

And he said, ‘What about Peter Obi?’ I said Peter Obi is a member of the party. So that was it. So I came back here in this very same building, very same room, and it was a morning meeting of the party leaders—Uche Secondus and others, including Wike himself and Tambuwal. I remember there were about seven of them. I said, ‘Look, I have been to my boss, and this is what he said. Do you have any objection? You are leaders of the party and also leaders of the governors’ forum.’”

Atiku said after they assured him that they had no objection, he asked them to announce Obi as his running mate. However, he later came under criticism for supposedly failing to consult widely.

“They said I did not consult with the party enough. So in 2023, I threw the whole thing to the party. I said, ‘Okay, set up a committee and recommend three people for me to pick as running mate.’”

According to Atiku, the committee submitted three names: then-Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa as the first choice, Wike as the second, and then-Akwa Ibom State Governor Udom Emmanuel as the third.

“So I picked number one,” he said, adding that his decision not to pick Wike was simply because he was the second choice on the list.

Men of the Nigerian Police Force, their counterparts in the Nigeria Army, Navy, Air Force and other security agencies, said yesterday they foiled an attempt to blow up another pipeline in Rivers State.

This came on a day organized labour in the state threatened to go on strike should the Federal Government fail to reverse the emergency rule imposed on the state within a reasonable space of time.

This is even as a Federal High Court sitting in Abuja was yesterday asked to sack the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (retd).

Meanwhile, the Sole Administrator yesterday appointed Prof. Ibibia Worika, a legal expert as the new Secretary to the State Government, SSG.

The Police, which spoke on behalf of other security agencies, including the Army, Navy, Air Force, among others, also vowed to protect all critical infrastructure of government and ensure total security of lives and property of people of the state amid emergency rule.

Briefing the media yesterday, the Commissioner of Police in Rivers State, Olugbenga Adepoju, noted that their joint operations had been instrumental to the sustenance of peace in the state.

He said: “I extend our profound commendation to the joint patrol operations conducted by the Police, the armed forces, and other sister agencies which have diligently executed their mandate to support the objective of the state of emergency in Rivers State.

‘’Our collective effort has been instrumental in sustaining the peace and calm currently enjoyed in our dear state.

“It is imperative to emphasize that this phase of security activities is a necessary measure to prevent any potential breakdown of law and order. The decision to deploy a proactive policing strategy was informed by an emerging atmosphere that could have been exploited by troublemakers to plunge the state into insecurity and chaos.

‘’I assure the good people of Rivers State that this is a temporary phase, and in due time, we will all witness a more peaceful and secured state.

Furthermore, I must stress the critical importance of securing critical national assets and infrastructure within Rivers State. These assets are vital, not only to the people of Rivers State but also to the entire nation.

The Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun has warned officers against illegal detention, saying there will be “consequences” for such an action.

In a statement by Muyiwa Adejobi, the Force spokesman, the IGP said there is a legally stipulated period for detentions, citing sections 34 and 35 of the Nigerian Constitution “which guarantees the right to dignity and personal liberty”.

“The IGP cautions against any practices that may lead to unlawful or prolonged detentions, which can undermine public trust and confidence in the police, reiterating that any officer found violating these principles will face serious consequences,” the statement issued on Sunday read.

“Calling for a culture of accountability within the Force, the IGP thereby encourages officers to uphold the highest standards of conduct in their interactions with the public.”

According to the police chief, the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) wants to build stronger relationships with the communities it serves and ensure that policing is done with integrity

“The Nigeria Police Force is committed to ensuring that all individuals in custody are treated with respect and in accordance with the law,” the statement added.

“The commitment of the current Police leadership to human rights reflects a broader vision of a police force that is not only effective in maintaining law and order but also dedicated to protecting the rights and dignity of all individuals.”

READ THE FULL STATEMENT BELOW

In reply, please quote;
Ref No. CZ.5300/FPRD/FHQ/ABJ/VOL.6/401 Date: March 23, 2025.
The Director of News
…………………………….
PRESS RELEASE
HUMAN RIGHTS: IGP WARNS PERSONNEL AGAINST INCESSANT, UNLAWFUL DETENTIONS.

Cautions against Detention Beyond Legally Stipulated Period

The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM., has issued a stern reminder to all members of the Nigeria Police Force regarding the importance of respecting the fundamental rights in the context of pre-trial detentions. The IGP emphasized that adherence to legally stipulated detention periods is not only a legal obligation but also a fundamental aspect of upholding the dignity and rights of individuals, as enshrined in Sections 34 and 35 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, which guarantees the right to dignity and personal liberty.

The IGP cautions against any practices that may lead to unlawful or prolonged detentions, which can undermine public trust and confidence in the police, reiterating that any officer found violating these principles will face serious consequences. Calling for a culture of accountability within the Force, the IGP thereby encourage officers to uphold the highest standards of conduct in their interactions with the public.

By prioritizing human rights, the Nigeria Police Force aims to build stronger relationships with the communities it serves, ensuring that policing is conducted with integrity and respect.

The Nigeria Police Force is committed to ensuring that all individuals in custody are treated with respect and in accordance with the law. The commitment of the current Police leadership to human rights reflects a broader vision of a police force that is not only effective in maintaining law and order but also dedicated to protecting the rights and dignity of all individuals.

ACP OLUMUYIWA ADEJOBI, mnipr, mipra, fCAI,
FORCE PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER,
FORCE HEADQUARTERS,
ABUJA.

23RD MARCH 2025

With Nigeria’s 2027 presidential election about two years away, political permutations and combinations have begun with actors shopping for special purpose vehicles among the 19 registered political parties in the country to realise their dream to occupy the Aso Rock, the nation’s seat of power in the political capital city of Abuja.

Fresh political alignments have been activated in many circles with the Social Democratic Party (SDP) recording seven presidential aspirants already, according to the party’s National Secretary, Olu Agunloye.

“We have eight presidential aspirants; it could be 10. Seven of them are on our platform,” the ex-steel minister said on Inside Sources with Laolu Akande, a socio-political programme aired on Channels Television.

Though he did not mention the names of the aspirants, he said the SDP can’t afford to lose any of the interested politicians to other parties.

Agunloye said loyalists of the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Peter Obi, have also approached the SDP to prepare the ground for the ex-Anambra governor who is yet to officially declare his intention to join the party.

The SDP chieftain said, “Obi’s people came to us to say if Obi comes, would you take him? Of course, we told them: ‘Yes’. I was in that meeting. Some of them are with us saying that they are preparing the ground but you have to join SDP. You cannot be in the Labour Party and be telling us Obi is coming without joining us otherwise we can’t open our doors for you.

“But Obi may have no plan to come or he may want to come. People do all of this but where we stand is that we must do well in our platform.”

Ahead of the 2027 polls, talks about an inter-party alliance reached a climax on Thursday, March 20, 2025, when opposition arrowhead Atiku Abubakar, alongside Obi, ex-Kaduna governor Nasir El-Rufai, amongst others, announced a coalition to oust incumbent Bola Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress (APC) whose administration has been accused of mismanaging the economy, with all-time high inflation and unprecedented cost of living.

The coalition is banking on the numerical strength of the votes recorded by Atiku and Obi in the last poll. In 2023, Atiku of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Labour Party’s Obi came second and third respectively with combined votes of over 12 million, more than four million above the total votes recorded by Tinubu who was declared the winner by electoral umpire INEC.

With a litany of court cases arising from intra-party squabbles and protracted leadership crises rocking the PDP and the LP, as well as alleged maltreatment of some APC members, politicians in the three parties seem to have made the SDP a darling.

SDP’s national secretary Agunloye said the party’s “gates are open. So, if all of them wants to come, we will take them”. But he quickly added that the party won’t allow the newcomers to displace the landlords but would find a way to synergise the two groups and explore their collective strengths for the interest of the party in the next poll.

He said, “We will not allow people to come and sweep the people out from the place. We must synergise; we must maximise the opportunities because these are people with a lot of experience.

“Whatever anybody wants to say about El-Rufai, you cannot take his experience away, you cannot take his expertise away, you cannot take his energy away. And he has money because anybody who is able to win elections has money – whether he is able to raise it or has it from inheritance. So, it is a plus that he joins the party but we must find a way to work together with him.”

He boasted that the party has a presence in all the 774 local government areas in Nigeria and “those who want to come must follow the pattern that we have”.

On whether former vice president Atiku plans to join the SDP from the PDP, Agunloye said, “I’ve been hearing that Atiku is coming. Atiku and I are friends since the time he was vice president. He still spoke to me about one week or less ago; he didn’t say: ‘I am coming’.”

He said El-Rufai’s defection from the APC to the SDP boosted the party’s membership.

“I know that (Hamza) Al-Mustapha has come because he came to the office to collect our membership card. El-Rufai has come and a couple of his former commissioners, and associates.

“Several other people called and said they don’t know El-Rufai but because he came, they want to come. I am the secretary of the party. If your name is not on our book, you have come but you have not entered,” he said.

huptin:
The whole bible was written by men, no one argues that. The bible was written by men. God has not written any book Only moslems deceive themselves that God wrote a book, when it is clear that the Koran was written by Jewish scribes who were close to Mohammed during his early days when he was rejected by his fellow arabs.

That's why he kept referring to them as people of the book. The jews are the first set of people to start monotheistic religion (the belief in the existence of only one God) and it was from them that mohammed learnt monotheism. He started figthing the jews when they refused to convert to Islam after his (Mohammed's) triumph over the other Arabs who were polytheists.

God did not write any holy book and send to Mohammed, it was the jews that wrote it. And yes...its the same jews that wrote most of the books of the bible also.

huptin:
Jesus christ came to offer a direct access to God, in the new testament, due to the failure of the old testament laws to adequately reconcile man with his God.

Yes! God sent his only son to not only die for mankind but to show him a more meaningful path to God.

huptin:
All those laws have been changed by Jesus christ and replaced by just two : love your God and love your neighbor as yourself.

Since you already are reading the Bible just search it to find if it's true or not.

You Muslims know nothing.about your Koran or the Bible... The only thing you know is recitation.

For Christians the old testament is for lessons and knowledge but we are duty bound by the new testament.

The new testament came to replace the old testament, for if any one believe in christ old things are passed away and behold all things have become new.

That's why Christians don't go about beheading people and killing the poor and the weak like you Muslims... Though those things are in the Bible, they belong to the past, with the coming of Jesus we are not bound by those laws again!

huptin:
All these verses are in the old testament, the Torah which the jews believe in... Christians believe in christ and christ came purely to reform the old testament.

So those verses are among the old things that passed away... And with the coming of Christ every thing has become new.

The problem with you Muslims is that after the demonic prophet came up with all those evil verses, you lack the personality of christ... That could have helped reform them!

That's why rather than dominate the world as promised by the fake prophets Muslims are now the rags of the world... People use them to wipe the floor anytime they so wish.

FG debunks claims of targeted killing of Christians
President Bola Tinubu yesterday insisted that he has no religious bias neither is he a bigot.

Tinubu told a delegation of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria who visited him that for Nigeria itself to develop, it must be above religious bigotry.

He spoke on a day his government rebutted allegations by the United States of America of targeted killings of Christians in Nigeria.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs called the report misinformation and misleading.

The President, during his meeting with the Catholic Bishops said he was fully aware of the hardship Nigerians were facing but declared that ongoing economic reforms were necessary to build a stronger nation.

“Yes, removing the fuel subsidy was hard, tough for me, but it’s a hard choice that Nigeria must face. We are not going to bankrupt our country,” he said.

He added:“We were spending the investment of the future of our children yet unborn; We were spending their rights, and poverty has no religious basis. There’s no religious colouration, no identity. It affects all, and we must fight it together.”

On security, the President noted that his government was making progress in tackling insecurity, which according to him affects Christians and Muslims alike.

“This insecurity, everyone is affected, Christians, Muslims alike. I have no religious bias; I won’t be a bigot. My wife is a pastor of Redeemed Christian Church. But we have to think of our country; this country must develop and must stand beyond religious bigotry. And I’m here open to you, ready to listen.


“We’ve been together for some time. We have an open-door policy. I will not shut my door.”

Responding to the bishops’ request for the return of mission schools taken over by government, Tinubu explained that such decisions were under the jurisdiction of state governments.

He said he had returned mission schools when he was governor of Lagos State.

Leader of delegation, Dr. Lucius Ugorji congratulated Tinubu on his election and acknowledged the challenges posed by his economic policies.

He called for more efforts to restore public confidence, improve security, and ensure religious harmony.

“Your government’s policy mantra is anchored on the principles of Renewed Hope. In this regard, we are pleased to inform you that the Holy Father, Pope Francis, has declared this year as the year of hope, the Jubilee Year of Hope, a theme we adopted for our conference. We came with the final fruits of our deliberations and will share them with you,” Ugorji, who doubles as CBCN President and Archbishop of Owerri,said.

They also urged the government to stop funding religious pilgrimages, arguing that public funds should be redirected to pressing national needs.

“The government should allow religious groups to take full responsibility for organising pilgrimages. In their current structure, the national and state pilgrims’ boards serve neither their adherents nor the broader interest of the nation. You’re undoubtedly aware of the instances of corruption that have led to the removal of some board executives to ensure greater efficiency and accountability,” Ugorji stated.

GistMedia0:
In a shocking revelation, Prophet Victor Elijah Odudu 1, the Senior Prophet of the Knowledge of God Family Church of All Nations, has been exposed following a court-ordered eviction. The church, located at #9 Paulinus Urua Street, off Udo Udoma Avenue in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, was discovered to house several fetish items, raising serious questions about the authenticity of his ministry.

Odudu 1, as he is popularly known, had previously been served a Notice of Quit by the owner of the landed property where his church operated. However, he refused to comply with the eviction notice, prompting the property owner to take legal action against him. After the court's grace period expired, court officials arrived at the premises to enforce the eviction order.

During the eviction process, disturbing discoveries were made. Various fetish items, including the so-called ‘Ancient of Days’ currency, pictures of different individuals, ‘touch and follow’ powders, a human skull, foreign and local oils , and other ritualistic objects were found within the church and the prophet’s office. These findings suggest that Prophet Odudu 1 may have been operating as a traditional herbalist under the guise of a religious leader.

Despite his controversial practices, Odudu 1 was regarded as one of the most powerful prophets in the area. His sudden disappearance following the exposure has left many questioning the legitimacy of his activities. Authorities are currently investigating the matter, while his whereabouts remain unknown.

Labour Party presidential flagbearer in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, has said that he did not exhibit any sign of desperation to make the leadership of the party believe he craves a ‘free ticket’ or ‘special treatment’ ahead of the 2027 election.

Obi, who spoke through his media aide, Ibrahim Umar, was reacting to a recent interview where the National Publicity Secretary of the LP, Obiora Ifoh, denied that the party was planning to field Obi, Abia State Governor Alex Otti and some 2023 candidates in the next poll.

The rebuttal comes a few days after the factional National Publicity Secretary of the party, Abayomi Arabambi, announced that the LP would field the former Anambra State governor to stop President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid.

When contacted to clarify if LP is truly planning to field Obi in 2027, the National Publicity Secretary of LP, Obiora Ifoh, debunked it.

While indicating that the narrative was flawed, Ifoh told our reporter that the report couldn’t have emanated from the Julius Abure camp.

However, when asked how Obi was taking the ‘no automatic ticket’ threat by Abure, Umar said his principal did not bother himself with such trivialities.

He said, “Our principal, Peter Obi, remains steadfast in his commitment to democracy and the well-being of all Nigerians. He has consistently championed the importance of good democracy, and healthy competition, recognizing that these elements are essential for a thriving democratic setting.

"It is crucial to note that Peter Obi has never sought a free ticket or special treatment. Instead, he has always emphasised the need for a level playing field, where individuals can compete fairly and freely. We urge our supporters and the general public to stay focused on the issues that truly matter, rather than being swayed by misinformed narratives.

“Peter Obi’s dedication to promoting good governance, economic growth, and social justice remains unwavering. Let’s work together to build a brighter future for Nigeria, one that is guided by the principles of democracy, fairness, and equality.

“Our principal’s actions and decisions will continue to be driven by these values, ensuring that Nigeria remains on a path towards prosperity and greatness.”

Ahead of the 2023 elections, the Obidient Movement has vowed to ensure the emergence of leaders such as former Labour Party, LP, presidential candidate, Peter Obi.

The Movement vowed to ensure that competent leaders emerge alongside Obi in 2027.

The National Coordinator of the Movement, Tanko Yunusa, disclosed this via a statement he issued on Tuesday.

The statement reads, “On Wednesday, 12th February 2025, the Obidient Movement took a significant step forward by successfully hosting its first Advisory and Directorate Committees meeting.

“This milestone gathering brought together key stakeholders who reaffirmed their commitment to unity and strategic action in the collective mission to build a new Nigeria.

“The movement has an unwavering commitment to develop and ensure that competent (value-based) leaders such as Peter Obi emerge in our political space as the march towards 2027 general elections.

“The meeting served as a platform for meaningful dialogue, with members aligning on the path forward. Discussions reinforced the importance of organisation, coordination, and active participation to drive the movement’s mission and vision.

“Participants left with a renewed sense of purpose, fully aware of the responsibility ahead and the urgency of action.

“We appreciate all those who have accepted appointments to serve in various directorates and advisory councils, taking on critical roles in shaping the movement’s future.

“We also salute the millions of Obidients across Nigeria and beyond who continue to work tirelessly, mobilising, advocating, and pushing for a better Nigeria every day. Your dedication remains the heartbeat of this movement.

“With renewed energy, the Obidient Movement will continue to strengthening its structures, expanding its reach, and ensuring that every supporter is empowered to play their part.

“This is a collective mission; together, we will deliver the leadership and governance that Nigerians deserve. We encourage all supporters to stay engaged, participate actively, and remain steadfast in their commitment.

"A New Nigeria is within reach if we work for it.”