₦airaland Forum

A former Governor of Sokoto State, Senator Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, has dismissed the wave of defections in the NorthWest, saying they are driven by personal gains rather than the interest of the people.

Speaking with journalists after the maiden Zonal Executive Council Meeting of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Northwest in Kaduna on Saturday, Tambuwal criticized defectors who align with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), arguing that their motives are not rooted in public service.

“People leave parties for different reasons. But what I have observed is that defections are not based on the interest of the people but on personal gains, what I call ‘stomach infrastructure.

“If you are a politician with a conscience, you wouldn’t join the APC given the current economic hardship and the poor performance of the Tinubu administration,” Tambuwal stated.

The PDP Chieftain lambasted the APC-led federal government, accusing it of lacking focus, compassion, and direction.
He called on opposition forces to unite and strategize for the 2027 elections to provide an alternative for Nigerians.

"There is nothing appealing in the APC beyond personal benefits. Those of us who believe in this country and in service to the people must come together to ensure that by 2027, we remove this administration that has failed Nigerians,” he added.
Meanwhile, the PDP Northwest reaffirmed its commitment to reclaiming power in 2027, emphasizing the need for unity and strategic mobilization.

A communiqué issued at the end of the meeting and read by the PDP Northwest Chairman, Senator Bello Hayatu Gwarzo, underscored the party’s resolve to take its place in national leadership.

The PDP of the Northwest zone should take its rightful position in the nation by providing quality leadership. All internal conflicts at the national level must be resolved swiftly because Nigerians are looking to PDP for leadership,” the communiqué stated.

Despite challenges from the 2023 general elections, the party reaffirmed its strong grassroots support and an increasing national shift toward the PDP, stressing that unity is key to achieving success in 2027.

“We call for unity among party members so that we can solve our problems and ensure victory in 2027. All hands must be on deck to take over leadership in our states and at the national level,” the communiqué added.

The high-profile meeting was attended by key PDP stalwarts, including former Kaduna State Governor, Senator Ahmed Makarfi; former Kano State Governor, Senator Ibrahim Shekarau; PDP governorship candidate for Jigawa, Mustapha Sule Lamido; Senator Lado Dan Marke; Hon. Isa Ashiru Kudan; Hon. Ango Abdullahi; and the PDP National Youth Leader, among others.

The apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, has called on President Bola Ahamed Tinubu to exercise the needed political will and courage to address the historical state creation imbalance in the country.

The Deputy President-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, who made the demand through a press statement issued on Sunday in Abakaliki with a title “A Call for Equity: Proposed 31 States Must Acknowledge Southern Needs” said there was the need to make up the states in the south to 19 to bring it to parity with states in the north.

According to him, the President and House of Representatives should be concerned about creating two states; one for the Southeast and the other for the South-south to bring to an end the intimidation against the aspirations of the Southern populace.

The Statement reads in part “The Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the foremost socio-cultural organization representing the Igbo people and, by extension, the Southern regions of Nigeria, unequivocally voices its profound objections to the recent proposal put forth by the House of Representatives advocating for the creation of thirty-one new states. This proposal is an exercise in futility, characterized by a blatant lack of credibility and a fundamental misunderstanding of the criteria essential for the establishment of viable political entities.

“We commend the leadership of the House, particularly the Deputy Speaker, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, for his forthright dismissal of this proposal, which fails to meet basic constitutional requirements. His remarks serve not only as a necessary disclaimer but as a vital effort to preserve the integrity and dignity of our legislative institutions. The suggestion to create an unwieldy number of new states is, frankly, premature and displays a level of immaturity unbecoming of our representatives. Such proposals do nothing but cast a shadow over the stature of the House of Representatives and compromise its essential role in governance.

“Ohanaeze Ndigbo staunchly reaffirms its position that any discourse regarding state creation must prioritize the Southern region of Nigeria, which has been historically underrepresented. The Northern region, currently endowed with nineteen states—a configuration established by past military regimes—benefits from an unfair numerical advantage that has led to systemic inequities. This disparity has long been employed as a strategic instrument of intimidation against the governance and development of the Southern populace.

“In this context, we urgently appeal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to summon the political will and moral strength necessary to correct this longstanding imbalance in state representation. The political and economic advantages enjoyed by the North, due in large part to its nineteen states, must be counterbalanced by the creation of two additional states in the South. Our immediate recommendation is that the first of these new states be established in the Southeast, which currently consists of just five states. It is imperative that the Southeast achieves parity with other geopolitical zones, particularly the Northwest, which boasts seven states.

“Moreover, we propose that the allocation of the second new state be judiciously considered for either the Southwest or the South-South region. This strategic adjustment is not merely a numeric correction; it represents a critical step toward addressing the long-standing grievances of the Southern populace and fostering a more equitable distribution of power across the federation.

“The imperative for action is now clearer than ever. By fostering this equity, President Tinubu will not only be advancing the cause of justice for the Southern regions but also dismantling the historical political and economic dominance that has marginalized our people for far too long. The establishment of these two states is essential for ensuring that the Southern regions are empowered to contribute significantly to the national dialogue and development agenda.

“In closing, Ohanaeze Ndigbo remains steadfast in its commitment to achieve fairness and equity for our people. We assert that the time has come for President Tinubu to take decisive action. The creation of two additional states within the Southern regions is not merely a policy recommendation; it is a clarion call for justice, equality, and national unity. A stronger, more equitable Nigeria is possible if we take the necessary steps to right the imbalances of the past”.

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency has arrested two suspected drug kingpins at Port Harcourt International Airport and Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, who excreted a total of 125 wraps of heroin.

NDLEA spokesperson, Femi Babafemi, confirmed the arrests in a statement issued on Sunday, revealing that one of the suspects, Onyekwonike Elochuckwu Sylvanus, operates under dual identities to evade detection.

Port Harcourt Arrest: Dual passports
Sylvanus, 30, was caught at Port Harcourt airport on February 2, 2025, using a Sierra Leonean passport under the name Kargbo Mohamed Foday.

“He was intercepted during the inward clearance of passengers on a Qatar Airways flight from Doha via Abuja.

“A body scan confirmed he had ingested illicit drugs, and under observation, he excreted 62 wraps of heroin weighing 1.348 kilograms in five sessions,” Babafemi stated.

Further investigations showed that Sylvanus alternated between his Nigerian and Sierra Leonean passports for drug trafficking across Thailand, Pakistan, Iran, and West Africa.

He reportedly admitted to going full-time into the drug trade in 2017 after his clothing and shoe business collapsed.

Lagos Arrest: Madagascar returnee
The second suspect, James Chinoso, 48, was arrested on February 1, 2025, at Lagos airport after arriving from Madagascar via Ethiopia on an Ethiopian Airlines flight.

“A body scan confirmed he had illicit drugs in his system. Under observation, he excreted 63 wraps of heroin weighing 909 grams,” Babafemi said.


“He claimed he turned to drug trafficking after his phone accessories business in Liberia collapsed,” Babafemi added.

Courier, Highway Operations
In a separate operation on February 6, NDLEA operatives from the Directorate of Operations and General Investigation intercepted 2.82 kilograms of Loud, a synthetic cannabis strain, smuggled from the United States and destined for Lagos.

That same day, another logistics firm in Lagos was found to be shipping 80 ampoules of pentazocine injection (225 grams) concealed in cartons to Canada.

In Kano, NDLEA operatives on February 3 arrested Usaini Salisu and Yahaya Mu’azu, both 23, at Gadar Tamburawa along Zaria Road, recovering 15,396 tramadol pills hidden in a gas cylinder.

A separate operation in Sabon Gari, Kano, led to the arrest of Chioma Okeke, 35, with 27 blocks of skunk (15 kg of cannabis).

On February 8, NDLEA officers intercepted 12,800 tramadol 250mg pills along the Kabba-Obajana Highway in Kogi State, arresting Salisu Basiru, 33.

The same day, 65 parcels of Colorado (1.6 kg of synthetic cannabis) headed for Jigawa State were recovered from Rufai Hassan, 32, at a checkpoint.

NDLEA, in the statement, vowed to intensify crackdowns on drug syndicates across the country.

Following wanton killings and abductions of innocent residents in the South-East, some prominent businessmen in the region have begun moves to fight against hoodlums who have made life unbearable for residents and investors.

Findings by Saturday PUNCH showed that billions of naira had been raised by the groups, including those from Orsu Local Government Area of Imo State and its neighbouring Ihiala council area of Anambra State.

The businessmen, it was gathered, were funding various resistance groups in the form of vigilantes to tackle the rampant killings by hoodlums terrorising Anambra, Imo, Abia, Ebonyi, and Enugu states.

Also, in rural areas across the region, our correspondents learnt that wealthy businessmen were secretly funding militias to counter the insurgency in the South-East.

In the last one week, states in the region have come under intense attack by gunmen who have unleashed mayhem in Orlu, Okigwe, Oru West, Ihiala, among other areas.

The militant wing of the outlawed Indigenous People of Biafra, known as the Eastern Security Network, has been accused of complicity in the continuous breach of security in the region.

Imo merchants raise N800m

Saturday PUNCH gathered that the Idinma Orsu Initiative, a community-led effort to combat insecurity in Imo State, raised over N800m in its ongoing fight against criminals linked to IPOB’s ESN.

The initiative, which began in 2023, has recorded notable successes, including the acquisition of 18 operational vehicles and collaboration with security forces to restore peace in the region.

The President of the Idinma Orsu Initiative, Chief Chuddy Okapaku, said the group’s journey began with a gathering in Owerri, Imo State, where members read out a communiqué and started raising funds.

“After we did this, these ESN members started panicking, burning houses, and looting goods. They felled many trees, hijacked trailers, and used them to block roads to cut off the authorities,” he said.

He explained that the turning point came when the kidnapping crisis became unbearable.

In response, the group met with the Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, who granted them an audience for about a month.

They then reportedly collaborated with officers of the Department of State Services, who deployed personnel in their local government.

"We started with one town. From there, we started fighting IPOB. We also got the military involved. We assist the military in providing AGO (diesel) and PMS (petrol). We also buy some food and service the vehicles. We have over 18 vehicles and have arranged our vigilantes,” Okapaku stated.

He noted that the group had been active for four years, with 2025 marking its fifth year of operations.

Vigilance groups in Ehime Mbano

Also, businessmen in Ehime Mbano LGA of Imo State said they took it upon themselves to fund small vigilance groups to improve security in the area.

One of the vigilance groups in the area, funded by local merchants, is the Nsu Security Vigilance Group.

A community leader in the area, Chief Kelechi Anowi, told Saturday PUNCH that the vigilantes often escorted wealthy individuals to burials and other ceremonies to prevent attacks by criminals.

He noted that hiring vigilantes was cheaper than engaging the police.

The businessmen, who are among the wealthy people in the area, have continued to fund the Nsu Security Vigilance Group. They have also purchased patrol vehicles for the local security outfit. This is all targeted at countering moves by criminals.

"Some of the vigilance groups here in Ehime Mbano and other parts of Imo State escort these rich men to burials and other ceremonies just to protect them. The vigilantes are paid salaries every month. Millions of naira have been spent on vigilantes by these wealthy men since the rise of insecurity in the state and the South-East in general,” Anowi added.

South-East killing fields

The killings in the South-East have increased in the last few weeks.

On Sunday, suspected criminals invaded Amagu and two other villages in Nkalaha community, Ishielu LGA of Ebonyi State, killing no fewer than 10 residents and burning houses.

As of Wednesday, the death toll had risen to 15, with many more residents still missing.

Again, at least six church members, including a pastor of The Lord’s Chosen Church, Nkaleha, Ebonyi State, were killed by suspected hoodlums last Sunday.

Sources said the attackers also injured many worshippers during the attack.

Similarly, the lifeless body of Justice Azuka, the member representing Onitsha North 1 Constituency in the Anambra State House of Assembly, was found along the 2nd Niger Bridge in the early hours of Thursday.

Azuka was abducted on Christmas Eve along Ugwunaobankpa Road in Inland Town, Onitsha, while returning home for the festivities.

However, his decomposing body was later discovered by a joint team of security operatives, raising further concerns over the spate of mindless killings in the South-East.

Earlier in January, a former National Human Rights Commission Chairman, Prof. Chidi Odinkalu, who hails from Orsu, Imo State, posted on X that at least 18 people were killed in coordinated attacks across several communities in his hometown.

He listed the affected areas as Umukabia, Eziawa, Ihitte Nasa, Umuhu, Amaoku, and Amaebe, adding that the victims suffered machete wounds.

The President of the Idinma Orsu Initiative, Chief Chuddy Okparaku, told Saturday PUNCH how IPOB insurgents infiltrated the community in 2020.

He expressed shock at how the police, military, and other agencies ignored the situation until the militants relocated to Orsu Itokwa, taking advantage of the area’s rugged terrain.

He said, “What baffles me is that the police, military, and other agencies did nothing until they relocated to Orsu Itokwa. This is because that community has a long valley.

“There are several valleys in my community that are as low as 1,500 kilometres below sea level. Some are 800 kilometres deep. These terrorists hide in these valleys and plan how to carry out their wicked acts.”

Okparaku lamented the severe impact of IPOB’s activities, noting how their occupation of Orsu stripped the people of their freedom and peace.

Deserted communities

In Imo State, the worst-hit local government areas include Orsu, Orlu, and Okigwe, where communities have been deserted.

Others are Ideato North, where a council chairman, Chris Ohizu, was kidnapped and later beheaded.

Njaba, Onuimo, Oru West, and Oru East council areas have had a significant presence of IPOB and ESN activities.

The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Abdullahi Ganduje, has said President Bola Tinubu’s administration is committed to strengthening democracy.

Ganduje also reassured Nigerians of Tinubu’s commitment to tackling the country’s challenges with determination and a clear sense of purpose.

The APC chairman stated this during the launch of a book titled, ‘100 Years of Political Party Evolution in Nigeria,’ organised by the Inter-Party Advisory Council in Abuja, on Thursday.

The event brought together key political stakeholders, scholars, and policymakers to reflect on the evolution of political parties over the last century and their impact on Nigeria’s governance structure.

While delivering his keynote address, Ganduje, who was represented by the Director of Election Management of the APC, Mallam Tasiu Mohammed, emphasised that the Tinubu-led administration was focused on navigating the country through economic and political difficulties.

He said, “President Tinubu is addressing Nigeria’s challenges head-on with unwavering commitment. His leadership is centred on implementing policies that will strengthen democracy, drive economic growth, and improve governance.”

A Nigerian national, Okezie Ogbata, has been charged by a district court in Florida, United States, for defrauding more than 400 elderly and vulnerable victims of over $6m.

The Southern District of Florida, last Wednesday, found Ogbata guilty of operating a transnational inheritance fraud scheme to dupe American senior citizens.

According to the Department of Justice, the 36-year-old Nigerian and his co-conspirators told a series of lies to victims “to send money for delivery fees, taxes and other payments to avoid questioning from government authorities.”

Ogbata and his accomplices sent letters falsely claiming that the sender was a representative of a bank in Spain and that the recipient was entitled to receive a multimillion-dollar inheritance left for the recipient by a family member who had died overseas years before.”

In pleading guilty, Ogbata admitted to defrauding over $6m from more than 400 victims, many of whom were elderly or otherwise vulnerable.

Reacting to the case, the Head of the Justice Department’s Civil Division, General Brian Boynton, said, “This case is a testament to the critical role of international collaboration in tackling transnational crime.”

Ogbata is scheduled to be sentenced by US District Judge Roy Altman on April 14, 2025 with The Nigerian Achievers Awards Institute, with the possibility of a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison.

President Bola Tinubu has commended the Finish government for the arrest and detention of Biafra agitator Simon Ekpa.

The President also described Ekpa’s arrest as well deserved.

Tinubu said his government has zero tolerance for actions and statements that could lead to divisiveness among citizens.

The Nigerian President spoke when he received the Letters of Credence from the Finnish Ambassador to Nigeria, Ms Sanna Selin, at the State House.

He said the Finnish authorities intervention was timely, because it safeguarded the nation’s integrity and mitigated an action that threatened peaceful coexistence.

Tinubu also received Letters of Credence from the Ambassador of the European Union, Mr Gautier Mignot, and the Ambassador of the People’s Republic of Algeria, Hocine Mezoued.

Speaking at the brief ceremony, Tinubu said, “I must thank you for your record on safeguarding human rights in our country with the trial of Simon Ekpa.

“Nigeria is indivisible. We have been through turbulent times and we don’t want to promote terrorism.

“I am a child born into activism, but not divisiveness. We need cohesion and cooperation to bring about development. Our watchword is stability and cohesion to move the country forward.

“The National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, has informed me. I know what the rule of law means. The rule of law safeguards our democratic credentials, morals and values. We must respect the rule of law.”

The President noted that the ambassador’s priorities, including ICT, agriculture and education, will directly impact the country’s development.

“Nigeria is undergoing a series of necessary reforms to stimulate growth and prosperity. Thank you also for the humanitarian support in the North-East. I believe that we can work together,” he added.

The Ambassador of Finland extolled Tinubu for his courage in initiating reforms that will benefit the economy and ensure prosperity in the future.

“Simon Ekpa has been hindering bilateral relations. The cooperation between our two countries is going very well now, and the National Security Adviser has been providing all the evidence,” the ambassador noted.

The 6 Division, Nigerian Army, said its troops arrested 25 suspected oil thieves, four of whom are members of the disbanded Indigenous People of Biafra.

Also, the Army said the operatives destroyed 23 illegal refining sites and recovered 45,000 stolen products in the Niger Delta.

The Acting Deputy Director, 6 Division Army Public Relations, Lt. Col. Jonah Danjuma, [/b]disclosed this in a statement issued in Port Harcourt on Sunday and sent to newsmen.

Danjuma said the suspected IPOB members were arrested in Oshimili LGA of Dekta State, following a series of operations conducted by troops in the Niger Delta region between January 12 to 19, 2025.

The statement said, [b]“Troops 6 Division have continued the push against economic sabotage and associated crimes in the Niger Delta Region (NDR) with several successes recorded.

“These operations led to the deactivation of 23 illegal artisanal refineries, the destruction of 14 boats, and the arrest of 25 oil thieves, including four suspected members of the proscribed Independent People of Biafra in Delta State, with over 45,000 litres of stolen products recovered.

“The operations were conducted across the joint operations area with other sister services from 12-19 January 2025.

The statement said, “Troops 6 Division have continued the push against economic sabotage and associated crimes in the Niger Delta Region (NDR) with several successes recorded.

“These operations led to the deactivation of 23 illegal artisanal refineries, the destruction of 14 boats, and the arrest of 25 oil thieves, including four suspected members of the proscribed Independent People of Biafra in Delta State, with over 45,000 litres of stolen products recovered.

“The operations were conducted across the joint operations area with other sister services from 12-19 January 2025.

"In Rivers State, the operations resulted in the impoundment of a truck conveying over 15,000 litres of stolen products along the East-West Road by Tank to Eneka in the Obia-Akpor Local Government Area.

“Around the Karakarma area in Degema LGA, troops deactivated seven illegal refining sites, impounded four fibre boats, and recovered over 12,000 litres of stolen products. Similarly, around Bille, also in Degema LGA, two illegal refining sites, three receivers, and three pots of different sizes stocked with over 2,400 stolen products were handled.

“Additionally, troops also made inroads into the Imo Riverside, where 13 illegal refining sites, 25 drum pots, 24 receivers and 6 metal containers were destroyed with over 7,000 litres of stolen products recovered.

"Others include several empty gallons, four hollow pipes, motorcycles and a boat used for the heinous crime were taken out. At the Oga-Ama corridor in Buguma LGA, four boats and over 2,700 litres of stolen products were deactivated and recovered respectively.

“Troops also arrested a suspected tugboat and a barge around Finima in Bonny LGA. The barge was alleged to be carrying stolen Automotive Gas Oil. ”

It continued, “While, in Delta State, a sting operation was conducted, where troops arrested four suspected members of the proscribed IPOB at Power line Bonsac general area in Oshimili LGA.

“Several items were recovered from members of the irredentist group. This was in addition to several motorcycles intercepted while conveying stolen products around Abor Community Junction to Kwale in Ndokwa West LGA. Relatedly, along Yokri River in Burutu LGA, five dugout pits with unquantified quantities of stolen products were destroyed.”

The statement further said in Bayelsa State, along Okarki to Otuasega road in Ogbia LGA, troops intercepted two Toyota Avalons with reg. numbers AN AUG 964 TN and By By SAG 513 EA loaded with an unspecified quantity of illegally refined AGO.

“The vehicles and products have been handled in line with the subsisting operational mandate.

“While in Akwa, troops maintain the requisite operational posture to ward off criminal elements,” the Army 6 Division spokesman stated.

Speaking, the General Officer Commanding, 6 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Jamal Abdussalam saluted the doggedness of the troops and urged them to increase the operational tempo.

Abdussalam further charged them to deny criminal elements, particularly members of IPOB, any foothold in the Niger Delta region.

The economic reforms of the Tinubu administration, including the market-based pricing of premium motor spirit (PMS) and adjustments to foreign exchange policies, have saved the country approximately N930 billion in previously lost revenue, according to Finance Minister and Coordinating Minister of the Economy Wale Edun.

The N930 billion represents about five per cent of revenue losses addressed through these measures.

Edun told the Senate Committee on Appropriations during a briefing on the 2025 Appropriation Bill on Thursday that the administration inherited a precarious economy but has implemented targeted reforms that have now placed the country on a recovery trajectory.

"The administration inherited an economy on the brink, but through targeted reforms, we are now on a recovery path,” he said.

He cited the 100 per cent implementation of the 2024 recurrent expenditure as proof of government’s ability to meet its obligations despite the challenging economic environment.

Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth, he said, exceeded three per cent last year; a figure he described as a milestone, particularly when compared to developed nations struggling to achieve one per cent growth.

Gross Domestic Product is the monetary value of all finished goods and services made within a country during a specific period.

Edun said the administration’s focus “remains on growing revenues, improving fiscal discipline and ensuring sustainable economic growth for all Nigerians.”

Enhanced performances by revenue-generating agencies such as the Nigeria Customs Service and the Federal Inland Revenue Service, he added, were driving consistent revenue growth critical for achieving the government’s development goals.

Edun explained that the 2025 budget is planned to build on the successes of the previous year, prioritising increased tax-to-GDP ratios and higher national revenues.

He spoke of President Tinubu’s commitment to maintaining fiscal stability, meeting debt obligations, and implementing reforms that foster inclusive growth.

Ministry of Industry, Trade, Investment targets N2.4trn IGR for 2025.

Industry, Trade and Investment Minister, Jumoke Oduwole, who took her turn yesterday to brief the Senate committee, said N2.4 trillion has been projected as its internally generated revenue (IGR) for the 2025 fiscal year.

But she described the sum of N3.844 billion allocated for capital expenditure in the Ministry’s 2025 budget as inadequate to fund its programmes and plans aimed at driving the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Tinubu Administration.

She appealed for the support of the lawmakers for additional funding to enable the Ministry align its projects according to the objectives spelt out in the National Development Plan and the Medium Term Expenditure Framework.

Oduwole said her ministry remained committed to achieving its vision of promoting economic growth, creating jobs and generating wealth as well as formulating and implementing policies and programmes that attract foreign direct investment, boost industrialisation, increase trade and export as well as encourage the development of enterprises.

The ministry is currently implementing strategic policies, plans and programmes targeted at economic recovery and growth for employment generation and wealth creation for the generality of Nigerians, she said.

She named some of the programmes and policies of the Federal Government being promoted as the Nigeria Industrial Revolution Plan, the National Enterprise Development Programme, the Trade Policy of Nigeria (2023-2027) and the Nigeria investment Policy (2023-2027).

Social commentator, Reno Omokri has accused former Presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP) Peter Obi of speaking only about insecurity in the North and Southwest but neglecting the Southeast.

Omokri said this in a post on his official X account.

He mentioned that the southeast has the highest number of kidnapping for ransom in 2024 but a study of Peter Obi’s posts on kidnapping, abduction shows that his posts were directed at the North, Southwest and South South.

Omokri wrote, “The Southeast had the highest incidents of kidnapping for ransom in Nigeria for the year 2024, according to data from the analytical firm SMB Morgen. According to the statistics, Anambra is the state most prone to such abductions, followed by Imo, Abia, Enugu and Ebonyi.

“But the strange thing is that a study of posts made by Peter Obi on the subject of kidnapping, abductions, and ransom payments for the year 2024 found that most of his posts were directed at the North, the Southwest, and the South-South, respectively, in that order.

The Southeast, which had by far the highest percentage of abductions for ransom, featured the least in Mr. Obi’s condemnatory posts about the issue.

"This is surprising given the data from SMB Morgen. Peter Obi attacks other regions and ethnicities for a malaise that is more prevalent in his own region and particularly his home state. Why is that?

“When it happens in the North or Southwest, Peter Obi will dance naked in public. But if it occurs in Igboland, Mr. Obi will chop and clean mouth. He will usually not comment until he has been called out. And even in the rare event he addresses abductions in the Southeast, his words are tame, compared to the hyperbolic and hostile words he uses when they occur outside his home region.

"Can such a person govern a multiethnic and religiously heterogeneous nation like Nigeria fairly and objectively? You be the judge!”

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has rejected the N40 billion earmarked for it in the 2025 budget.

Chairman of the Commission, Prof Mahmood Yakubu, rejected the estimate during budget defence before a joint committee session on INEC and Electoral Matters, at the National Assembly on Friday.
The INEC chairman in his presentation before the joint committee chaired by Senator Sarafadeen Alli (APC, Oyo South), said elections in Nigeria have become huge burden requiring adequate funding.

He said, “Our proposal for the 2025 budget, the provision requires the sum of over N126 billion. We have the document that has provided details line by line on how we intended to spend the N126 billion.

"We would like the support of the National to enable us to achieve our responsibilities in the first line charge and most of these responsibilities are constitutional.
“In a nutshell, the N40 billion budget envelope given us for 2025 will not cover 1/3 of projected expenses which totally amounts to over N126 billion.

"We would like the support of the National to enable us to achieve our responsibilities in the first line charge and most of these responsibilities are constitutional.

"In a nutshell, the N40 billion budget envelope given us for 2025 will not cover 1/3 of projected expenses which totally amounts to over N126 billion
“Aside the off-cycle elections for 21 constituencies to be filled through bye – elections and the Anambra governorship election this year, personnel cost alone on account of the new minimum wage will eat up the N40 billion budgetary envelope.”

He added that the inadequacy of budget made the electoral body to get intervention funds of N10.5 billion for Edo and Ondo elections in 2024 and another N500 million for bye -elections on affected constituencies in 2024.

In their response, members of the joint committee one after the other, assured the electoral body that the proposed sum would be appropriated in the budget for the 2025 fiscal year.

sunky97:
In a significant move to combat corruption and support public services, the United States has returned nearly $53 million in alleged illicit funds to Nigeria. The recovered money, linked to Nigeria's former oil minister Diezani Alison-Madueke and others, will be used to fund critical projects aimed at improving the lives of Nigerians.

The funds, which were repatriated from the US, are part of a broader effort to recover assets allegedly stolen by Alison-Madueke during her tenure as Nigeria's petroleum resources minister. US authorities claim that she enriched herself and others by awarding lucrative contracts in exchange for bribes while leading Nigeria's state oil firm. These alleged ill-gotten gains were reportedly used to purchase a 65-meter superyacht named Galactica Star, as well as multiple luxury properties in California and New York.

Alison-Madueke, 64, has consistently denied all allegations of wrongdoing. However, her alleged corrupt activities have drawn international scrutiny. In the UK, she faces bribery charges, including accusations of accepting luxury goods, paying private school fees, and receiving at least $127,000 in cash.

A prominent figure in the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan, Alison-Madueke made history as the first female president of OPEC, the oil exporters' group. She served as Nigeria's petroleum resources minister from 2010 to 2015, following previous roles as transport minister and minister for solid minerals and steel development.

The repatriation of the $52.88 million marks a milestone in the ongoing efforts to recover assets linked to Alison-Madueke. This is the first time funds tied to her alleged corruption have been returned to Nigeria from outside the West African nation.

At a formal signing ceremony in Abuja, Nigeria's Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, highlighted the importance of this development in the fight against corruption. He announced that $50 million of the recovered funds would be channeled through the World Bank to support rural electrification projects, while the remaining $2.88 million would be allocated to the International Institute of Justice to strengthen the justice system and bolster anti-corruption initiatives.

US Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills, emphasized the need for accountability and transparency in the use of the returned funds. "The ministry of justice must guarantee that these funds are used transparently and effectively to improve the lives of Nigerians," he stated.
https://aidiscoveries.io/us-returns-50-million-in-alleged-stolen-funds-to-nigeria/

President Bola Tinubu on Thursday urged the government of the People’s Republic of China to increase the $2 billion currency swap between Nigeria and China to enhance trade between the two countries.

He also called for an upward review of the $50 billion aid package for Africa, which China’s President Xi Jinping announced last year.

China and Nigeria recently renewed their currency swap agreement, valued at 15 billion yuan (approximately $2 billion), to enhance trade and investment.

Receiving the Minister of Foreign Affairs of China, Wang Yi, at the State House Abuja, the President said increasing the level of currency swaps will speed up the infrastructural development in Nigeria and deepen the strategic bilateral relations.

"We still demand more in the area of currency swap. The level you have approved as a government for Nigeria is inadequate considering our programme. If you can increase that, it will be well appreciated. Our bond should grow stronger and become unbreakable,” the President was quoted to have said in a statement signed by his media aide, Bayo Onanuga.

Regarding the 50 billion dollars pledged by the Chinese Government to support Africa, President Tinubu noted that the continent’s infrastructural needs would require more commitment, urging a review of the amount to reflect the continent’s reality.

“I am happy you are part of China’s highest decision-making body. We will want you to use your position to influence improved project funding. First, I say yes to the 50 billion dollar support, and thank you for contributing to African growth.

"The infrastructural needs of Africa are greater than that, and we want to move as rapidly as our other counterparts. All share your vision of rapid development. Africa values the relationship with China, and we seek deeper collaboration for infrastructural development,” he stated.

Tinubu called on China to support Nigeria’s bid for a permanent United Nations Security Council seat.

“You are a member of the UN Security Council. We want you to use your influence to ensure Nigeria secures the seat,” the President said.

The Nigerian leader thanked President Xi Jinping for his warm reception during his visit to China last year.

He said Africa, particularly Nigeria, was prepared to meet developmental goals and contribute counterpart project funding.

"We are ready to move and reach the various developmental goals. Due to our deliberation, we signed many MOUs and planned many action programmes.

“My visit during FOCAC was a good experience. We signed several comprehensive MOUs during the visit. We planned several programmes of action. As a result of that deliberation, I made sure that immediately after I returned, I appointed one of the best brains available to coordinate Nigeria-China relations, Mr Joseph Tegbe. He will work to actualise various MOUs and promote a greater understanding of developmental programmes.

It is good that you came at such a critical time. My visit to China was a good experience. Once again, accept my sympathy for the earthquake in Tibet. It was a natural disaster that nobody expected. We commend your government for the rapid reaction to protect lives.

Yi thanked President Tinubu for appointing a Director General and Global Liaison, Nigeria—China Strategic Partnership, to oversee the implementation of the MOUs for the rapid development of the Nigerian economy.

"I would like to thank Nigeria for abiding by the one-China principle, and we will continue to support Nigeria in achieving the Renewed Hope Agenda, countering terrorism and ensuring regional security,” he said.

Yi said Chinese investments in the country would focus on employment generation and infrastructural development. He said the Chinese National Development Bank had started funding some development projects.

He said the Chinese Government would support including an African country in the UN Security Council, adding that “it was a historical injustice by the world that should be corrected”.

“We stand with Africa, and we will not support a country that invades another country,” he stated.

The foreign minister said China would welcome Nigeria’s membership in the BRICS and participation in the global development mechanism.

He said China fully supported Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the Director General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), for a second term in office.

The minister lauded President Tinubu for his visionary leadership and consistency in projecting Africa’s needs, which require China’s support.

“You brought Renewed Hope to the people of Nigeria. Your economy has sustained sound momentum, and Nigeria’s global influence has steadily increased. Nigeria has played an important role in upholding regional peace and has become an important force for African stability.

“We congratulate Nigeria on its achievements and believe that, under your leadership, Nigeria will realise greater achievements,” the Chinese foreign minister stated.

The newly elected factional President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Jackson Omenazu has vowed to stop at nothing in order to secure Mazi Nnamdi Kanu’s freedom.

Omenazu said the restoration of peace in Igbo land rests upon Kanu’s release.

In a statement he personally signed on Wednesday, Omenazu said “I stand resolutely prepared to exchange my freedom, my liberty, and, if need be, my very life, in pursuit of the release of our brother, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.”

He stressed that Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the apex socio-cultural organization of over 80 million Igbos across the globe, was unwavering in its conviction to explore every conceivable avenue to secure Kanu’s liberty.

“We recognize the historical precedents set by the Yoruba leadership exemplified in the release of Sunday Igboho, where steadfast solidarity and bold diplomacy carved pathways to justice.

“It is incumbent upon us, as guardians of our cultural heritage, to adopt a similar resolute approach, employing innovative and discreet tactics rather than the ineffective, superficial measures that have characterized our past engagements.

“In pursuit of this noble cause, Ohanaeze Ndigbo will embark on a strategic collaboration with all religious organizations active within Igbo land, be they Christian, Muslim, traditional, or Jewish.

“We shall consecrate the last weekends of each month throughout 2025 as sacred times for prayer, supplication, and ordinances.

“We will earnestly seek the countenance of Chukwu Okike Abiama (God Almighty) imploring divine intervention in the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, other prisoners of conscience in the country for restoration of peace throughout our homeland.

"As the leader entrusted with the voice of our people, I vow with utmost commitment to this cause.

In the spirit of true leadership, which is defined not by titles but by sacrifices made for the collective good for all humanity.

“I declare: I am prepared to sacrifice my personal liberty and comfort for the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu. This is not just an aspiration; it is an oath I solemnly take as I assume my role as President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo worldwide,” he noted.

The Ohanaeze President urged President Tinubu to listen to the cries of the Igbo people, just as he offered himself as a guarantor “for Mazi Nnamdi Kanu’s cooperation post-release, ready to ensure that his return catalyzes healing and reconciliation rather than discord.”

“We must not allow fear to hinder our collective responsibility—a fear that unfounded in all political calculations because the stability of the Nigeria government will not be destabilized for single action based justice in this instance.

“The challenge before us is profound, yet it is not insurmountable.

“The advocacy for Kanu’s freedom only serves to underscore the need for a unified front.

“This sacrifices must be counted as steps toward justice—let us not shy away from this noble endeavor.

“I call upon every Igbo individual, every leader, and every citizen of goodwill to rally together in this quest for justice.

[b]“Let us remember the sacrifices of our forebears who fought valiantly for our rights and freedoms,” [/b]he further stated.

Despite the Federal Government’s multi-billion-naira border surveillance systems launched in 2019, illegal migrants, some of whom have been identified as bandits, terrorists and kidnappers, continue to cross into Nigeria from the Republics of Benin, Chad, Niger, Mali and Cameroon.

This is as the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, said e-border surveillance is now being mounted across the nation’s borders with its neighbouring countries.

“As we speak, more than half of our borders have been automated. There are visuals, and a lot of processes going on now. So, effectively, there is e-border surveillance now in our borders.

"By October (2024), we will be done with the first phase of the e-border surveillance project, including our marine borders. Now, we have the command and control for air and land. You cannot secure your borders effectively without technology,” Tunji-Ojo said in a live national television programme in May 2024.

At the launch of the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Technology Innovation Complex in early December 2024, the minister said about 250 trained Immigration Service personnel run 24-hour shifts at the e-border control centre.

However, some foreigners still crossed to Nigeria from the Republic of Benin through the Baruten/Kaiama border posts despite the closure of the border by the FG.

Checks by The PUNCH from residents of border communities in the Baruten Local Government Area of Kwara state revealed that illegal immigrants still crossed the border into the country daily.

The immediate past chairman of Baruten Local Government Council, Abdulrasheed Abdullahi, who spoke with one of our correspondents, said that citizens of the Benin Republic are still migrating into the country through several illegal routes.

Abdullahi said, “Although the border posts have been closed since 2020 during the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari to beef up security, the border closure has not stopped citizens of Benin Republic who are our neighbours from coming into the country.”

"The e-border control system installed to stop the illegal immigrants from coming to the country had not stopped their citizens from entering Nigeria,” Abdullahi, who ended his tenure as the council chairman in September 2024, added.

The Federal Executive Council approved N52bn for the e-border surveillance system in 2019 to monitor and provide real-time information from major border posts nationwide.

However, the project faced delays due to funding challenges and did not commence until 2022. Nigeria’s extensive borders, covering approximately 5,330 kilometres, have numerous illegal entry points and present ongoing security challenges.

The Nigeria Immigration Service says it has since deployed advanced e-border solutions to over 80 crossing points nationwide, marking the project’s first phase. It says the e-border system offers real-time, 24/7 monitoring and intelligence, enabling better tracking and management of border activities.

Speaking in a telephone with The PUNCH on Monday, the Emir of Yashikira, a border community in Baruten LGA, Umoru Usman, said foreigners cross into the locality daily.

Usman explained, “Despite the border closure and the e-border control system installed by the Federal Government to stop illegal immigration into the country, which are all moves by the government to ensure security, the people from the Benin Republic who are our neighbours still crossed the border. Though we cannot give the figure, people are still crossing the borders on a daily basis.”

When reached for the comments, the Public Relations Officer of the Nigeria Immigration Service, Kenneth Udo, did not respond to calls to his mobile line. Also, text messages sent to his mobile and WhatsApp number were not answered as of this report.

Meanwhile, the Eselu of Iselu, Ogun State, Oba Akintunde Akinyemi, on Monday, said that the purported N9bn e-border control system project initiated under the Buhari government has failed to check the influx of illegal migrants into the country.

The royal father said there has been a steady increase in the number of illegal migrants moving into the country from the Benin Republic due to the absence of tangible barricades or landmarks demarcating the borders of both countries.

He attributed the influx of illegal migrants for the surge in crime.

Oba Akinyemi said, “The N9bn e-border control system project is a white elephant project just like the botched Nigeria Airways” under the same government of President Buhari.

He expressed doubts about the existence of any e-border control system along the land border with neighbouring Benin Republic.

Abia South Senator, Enyinnaya Abaribe, has expressed his willingness to stand as a guarantor for Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB.

Abaribe made the remark while addressing journalists after his visit to Governor Alex Otti of Enugu State.

He also urged President Bola Tinubu to listen to the Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi and other stakeholders over their calls to release Kanu.

Abaribe informed Tinubu that releasing Kanu would put a stop to the issue of criminalities in the Southeast.

He said: “I expect that the President will listen to both his Attorney General and every one of us who have been agitating that the issues in the Southeast; first of all the insurgency, the sit-at-home on Mondays and every other thing we have noticed in the Southeast, what we now know in the Southeast is that criminals and all other people who advocate violence have taken over and using the name Nnamdi Kanu to perpetuate all these their despicable acts.

"We know that the President, being a listening President, will also look at all the issues involved which we have presented to him from various mediums and that he will do the needful and release Nnamdi Kanu so that it will put a stop to all these things that are happening in the Southeast and bring back the Southeast as the hub of production in Nigeria.

“So he needs Nnamdi Kanu out so that all those things that are holding us down in the Southeast, that have made us not produce as much as we ought to produce, will not be there.

“So, we continue to call on President Tinubu to release Nnamdi Kanu and we are ready and willing to be guarantors for him to be released so that we can have life coming back into the Southeast and take it away from the criminals, kidnappers, the cultists and dangerous elements that are floating around us who have made it a point that they would perpetrate violence, do criminal activities and use Nnamdi Kanu’s name as their reason.”

Kanu remains incarcerated since June 2021 when he was rearrested and subjected to extraordinary rendition from Kenya to Nigeria.

Upon his return to Nigeria, the Appeal Court in Abuja ordered his release but the Nigerian government refused to let him off the hook.

President Bola Tinubu has said he removed the subsidy on fuel to safeguard the future of Nigerians.

Tinubu said he couldn’t allow Nigeria to go bankrupt, hence the need to remove the subsidy on fuel.

He disclosed this during a town hall meeting with the people of Enugu State after inaugurating some of the projects built by Governor Peter Mbah on Saturday.

According to Tinubu: “We must build this house called Nigeria to not just satisfy our immediate need, but our tomorrow too. That’s why the removal of the fuel subsidy was necessary. We cannot spend the future of generations yet unborn in advance. Don’t bankrupt the nation before they’re born.”

Tinubu had announced the removal of the subsidy on petrol on May 29, 2023.

His actions led to a hike in the prices of commodities, with some of his critics condemning the policy as not well thought out.

A former presidential aide, Mr Reno Omokri, has said that Labour Party’s former presidential candidate, Mr Peter Obi, lacks the moral authority to criticise President Bola Tinubu’s economic policies.

The Labour Party’s former candidate recently assessed the President’s performance as below par. He said his economic policies had left many Nigerians poorer than he met them, advising the President to tour the states to experience first-hand the high poverty rate across the country.

However, Omokri, in a statement on Friday, said Obi did not have the moral right to make adverse comments on Tinubu’s economic policies, because as the governor of Anambra State, his people’s poverty level worsened.

"Peter Obi, who worsened poverty in Anambra State, has no moral authority to accuse President Tinubu, who is reducing it,” the former aide to former President Goodluck Jonathan said, adding, “Mr Obi’s recent blunder, in which he urged the President to travel to the states to see the poverty level faced by Nigerians, is just another reminder that the only New Year resolution he appears to have made is to continue to misrepresent statistics through propaganda.”

Omokri recalled that under Tinubu’s watch, Lagos State experienced a reduction in poverty while Obi increased misery in his home state of Anambra State.

"Before Peter Obi took over as Governor of Anambra, poverty in that state was 41.4%. However, under Mr Obi, it grew to 53.7%. This is partly because Peter Obi refused to use the state’s allocations to build infrastructure, preferring to deposit them in his bank to yield interest,” he stated.

He said that rather than building schools and improving the education of his people, the former governor of Anambra State chose to build breweries, which he claimed benefited his family’s interests.

Omokri said Obi’s persistent criticism of Tinubu’s economic policies was mischievous because it discountenanced its increasing gains in the last 18 months.

He said that with the autonomy the President has secured for the local governments, the people at the grassroots level will witness poverty reduction as the councils’ direct funding starts this month.

He pointed out that improved security and local refining of petroleum products would help the President’s efforts to tame inflation. He contended that the former Labour Party presidential candidate was too fixated on president-bashing to see the gains of the ongoing economic reforms.

Omokri said: “Obi is fixated on President Tinubu because he wants the President’s power and the ability to wield it well. Therefore, he is the wrong person to advise about fighting poverty. Obi is the problem. President Tinubu is the solution.

“Obi is blind to the progress happening in Nigeria. Before President Tinubu assumed office, no single refinery in Nigeria worked, and Nigeria depended on imports for our refined petroleum needs.