₦airaland Forum

The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, has stated that Nigeria has not witnessed any acts of genocide against any group, whether Christian or Muslim.

He made this declaration on Tuesday in Birnin Kebbi during the opening ceremony of the Northern Traditional Rulers Assembly Meeting, Kebbi 2025.

According to the Sultan, “There is no way someone, whether a Muslim or a Christian, can be killed without the knowledge of the traditional rulers of the community where such a person belongs.”

“I challenge anyone, either within the country or abroad, to provide evidence of any genocide in Nigeria — where, who, and how it happened?” he added.

Sultan Sa’ad also cautioned the public against believing everything they see or read on social media, stressing that much of the content is false or misleading.

“Most of the information posted on social media is not true. People must verify such information before accepting it as fact,” he said.

The Sultan also appealed to the Federal Government to take proactive steps to regulate the activities social media users in the country.

He highlighted the dangers posed by the spread of fake news, emphasizing that misinformation could threaten national peace and unity.

Speaking on the traditional rulers’ assembly, the Sultan explained that the aim of the conference is to strengthen community collaboration and develop strategies to tackle insecurity in Northern Nigeria.

He commended the Governor of Kebbi State, Nasir Idris, for hosting the event and expressed appreciation for the presence of the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, despite his tight schedule.

The Sultan concluded by urging Nigerians to continue praying for the nation’s leaders, emphasizing the importance of unity and peace across the country.

Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi has directed that the Bodo-Bonny Road in Rivers State be opened to users by the end of November, with full completion and commissioning scheduled for December.

Umahi gave the directive during an inspection tour of federal road projects across the South-South and South-East regions, where he assessed the level of work done by Julius Berger Nigeria Plc on the 37.9-kilometre Bodo-Bonny Road project.

He disclosed that the project, which began on October 20, 2017, had undergone several cost reviews, from an initial ₦120 billion to ₦199 billion, and finally to N280 billion, following President Bola Tinubu’s approval to ensure completion.

“This project, 37.9 km, we call it Bodo-Bonny, is exactly eight years old today. The commencement of the project was on 20th of October 2017. The initial contract sum was ₦120 billion as of 2017, later augmented to ₦199 billion, and now ₦280 billion. The President directed, ‘go and give them what they want,’ because of his commitment to the people of the Niger Delta,” Umahi explained.

He said the cost translates to about ₦7.4 billion per kilometre, which he described as reasonable given the terrain and the standard of work being executed.

“This is a coastal route going through marshy lands. If we were to do this project now, it would cost over ₦15 billion per kilometre. The quality of work is very good, and I’m very happy with the commitment of the project manager,” the Minister stated.

Umahi directed that all barricades be removed by the end of November to allow for partial traffic flow while monitoring continues until the final asphalt surfacing is completed early next year.

“By 15th December, every job here should be completed except asphalt on five kilometres. From the end of November, open the road for traffic and monitor it through December, January, and February before final surfacing. Thereafter, the President will come to commission it,” he announced.

The Minister also revealed plans to install solar-powered streetlights, CCTV cameras, and trees along the embankments, noting that the enhancements would be financed from the project’s contingency funds without additional cost to government.

“Security of this road is very important. If we have reasonable contingency costs, we’ll use them to plant trees, put solar lights, CCTVs, and also create relief stations where vehicles can park and we can monitor security,” he added.

Reacting, Julius Berger’s Project Manager, Tim Nippert, commended Umahi for his trust and encouragement, assuring that the project would be completed within the stipulated time.

“We are very happy for your trustworthy words. You have given us a critical challenge, but we will meet it and not delay it. That’s our full commitment,” Nippert said, describing the project as a new benchmark for concrete road construction in Nigeria.

The engineer’s representative, Ndom Ndifreke, also confirmed that work was progressing smoothly and would be completed on schedule.

At the Eleme-Onne section of the East-West Road, Umahi expressed satisfaction with work handled by Reynolds Construction Company (RCC), explaining that the project had been redesigned from asphalt to reinforced concrete pavement to accommodate heavy industrial traffic.

“This is the most trafficked road in Nigeria, serving the petrochemical plant, port, and refinery. We found the initial ₦156 billion asphalt design inadequate and redesigned it using reinforced concrete for durability,” he said.

The Minister revealed that one carriageway and the Aleto Bridge were near completion, with the remaining flyovers and bridges expected to be delivered by April next year.

He directed the installation of solar lights and CCTVs at 30-metre intervals and called for the construction of truck parks to prevent heavy vehicles from damaging the new road.
Umahi also warned against misuse of public infrastructure, urging citizens to take ownership of government projects.

“The President is building roads meant to last 100 years, but we must protect them. People should stop parking trucks on bridges or dumping refuse on medians. Leadership is not just for those in office; every citizen has a role,” he stressed.

The Minister further assured contractors that funding for all NNPC-sponsored road projects, including those in Rivers, Bayelsa, and Delta States, would continue without interruption.

“Funding will not be a problem. By the end of this week, we’ll present a strategic plan to the President for continuous financing of NNPC projects. None of these projects should stop,” he said.

RCC representatives, in their response, thanked the Minister for his guidance and pledged to complete the Eleme section as scheduled.

Umahi concluded by reaffirming President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to completing key infrastructure across Nigeria, saying the Bodo-Bonny and Eleme road projects reflect the administration’s resolve to transform the nation’s transport network.

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Nyesom Wike, on Friday declared that he’s not the spokesman of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

The minister explained that his monthly media chat is to inform the public about his work in the FCT.

He spoke during his monthly media act in response to activist politician, Omoyele Sowore’s claim that the Presidency barred him from holding the parley.

Wike said, “Of course, I am not speaking for government, I am letting the world know what we are doing under the Tinubu’s administration.

“I am Minister of Federal Capital Territory and I owe a duty to let the public know what is happening within the territory, what we are about to do, and what we are going to do in the future, which is my responsibility.”

Wike also stressed that he never fell sick and flown abroad for medical treatment, as claimed by Sowore.

He said: “I am not a spokesperson for the government, I am not talking about different government. I am talking about activities of the ministry, of the FCT. If I don’t do, whose responsibility is it?

“He talked about somebody being sick, we are all human beings, anybody can fall sick any time but it’s unfortunate too, I never fell sick to be flown abroad. So these are things you don’t need to pay attention to.

“And then somebody said, the president banned me from having a media chat. It’s the same junk News that they will carry. Who is responsible for this?

“The same man who is collecting money from people. SaharaReporters carried this and that. How will a president ban you from letting people know, letting the public know, of what the administration is doing, particularly as it pertains to the FCT territory?

“So it’s not everything you read or whatever you hear you begin to take seriously.”

The Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service has blamed negligence of some shop owners for a fire incident that razed shops in a section of the popular Alaba International Market on Tuesday.

The service stated this in a Wednesday statement signed by Senior Public Affairs Officer, Maria Fadairo.

According to the statement, the service received a distress call at 7:18 pm of a fire outbreak at 155 Olojo Drive, opposite Tantalizers, Alaba International Market, Ojo.

“Upon receiving the alert, the Ojo and Ijegun-Egba Fire Stations were immediately deployed to the scene.

“The incident involved multiple lock-up shops of varying sizes situated within a two-storey building occupying approximately 648 square meters, within a larger market premises spanning about five hectares.

“Preliminary investigations revealed that the fire originated from the topmost floor of the building shortly after electricity was restored, due to negligence on the part of some shop owners,” the statement reads in part.

The service said access to the affected areas proved challenging as most shops were closed for the day, necessitating forced entry to gain access and suppress the fire.

It said this delay contributed to the spread of the flames which was however confined to the floor.

“The affected shops were primarily involved in the sale of furniture items and alternative power equipment with a law office.

“Fortunately, no casualties or injuries were recorded,” the statement further reads.

Fadairo said firefighting operations were successfully concluded at 10:10 pm with assistance of personnel from the Federal Fire Service, Lagos State Neighbourhood Safety Corps, Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), and the Ojo Police Division.

The Controller General of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, Margaret Adeseye, commended the collaborative response of all agencies involved and reiterated the need for the public to strictly adhere to fire safety precautions, particularly in commercial areas, to prevent avoidable fire incidents.

Former President of the United States, Barack Obama , has paid glowing tribute to late Afrobeat legend, Fela Anikulapo Kuti, describing him as a “unique figure in musical history” whose music fused art and activism and continues to resonate globally.

Obama, in a video posted on his social media platforms on Wednesday, October 22, night, urged music lovers to tune in to a new podcast dedicated to Fela’s life and influence.

The series, titled “Fela Kuti: Fear No Man,” is a 12-episode documentary podcast released by Higher Ground, the production company he runs with his wife, Michelle Obama.

In the podcast, Obama praised Fela’s originality in creating Afrobeat by blending funk, jazz, and soul into a genre that became a global sound and a rallying point for resistance against oppression.

“He is a musical genius from Nigeria who made some music that I really love, combining funk, jazz, and soul into a whole new genre called Afrobeat.

It’s a beautiful show about a unique figure in musical history who mixed art with activism,” Obama said.

The former US president explained that the podcast, like Higher Ground’s earlier series on Stevie Wonder, was an effort to document and celebrate artists whose music transcends entertainment.

The podcast goes beyond music to examine Fela’s genealogy of resistance. By episode four, it recounts how as an 8-year-old boy, Fela witnessed his mother, Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, take part in historic protests that shaped his worldview.

The podcast also highlights Fela’s transformative stay in Los Angeles in 1969, where exposure to the Black Power movement fused with his art to turn him from what the podcast calls a “missionary boy” into a Pan-Africanist activist and musical revolutionary.

In its debut episode, “To Hell and Back,” Obama himself was among the interviewees who underlined Fela’s ability to use music as both a source of joy and a weapon of change.

“Music like Fela’s is able to not just keep folks moving but also makes them feel alive. Our very best art and very best music touch the soul,” Obama said.

Producers of Fear No Man revealed that the podcast draws on over 200 interviews, including conversations with Fela’s family, close friends, scholars, and global artists.

Among those featured are Yeni Kuti, Femi Kuti, and Mádé Kuti, who share personal reflections on Fela’s family life and philosophy. Global stars and cultural icons such as Burna Boy, Paul McCartney, Questlove, and Santigold also contribute, underscoring Fela’s international reach.

The podcast, they said, is designed not just as a biography but as an exploration of how art can challenge power structures.

“Fela Kuti: Fear No Man journeys deep into the soul of Afrobeat to explore the transformative power of art and the role artists can play in this current moment of global unrest,” the producers explained.

His annual summer playlists often feature Afrobeat and Afropop musicians, from Fela to contemporary stars like Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Tems, showcasing the global appeal of Nigerian music.

With Fear No Man, Obama once again connects his admiration for Fela with a broader recognition of music’s ability to “move hearts, change minds, and heal wounds.”

More than 25 years after his death, Fela remains one of Africa’s most iconic musicians, remembered for his electrifying stage performances, unapologetic criticism of military regimes, and creation of Afrobeat as both a sound and a political movement.

By dedicating a full-length global podcast series to his life, Higher Ground and Obama have amplified his legacy to a new generation, positioning Fela not just as a Nigerian icon but as a world figure whose art and activism remain relevant in times of global turmoil.

The Osun State Government, on Friday, withdrew his suit against the Central Bank of Nigeria and the Accountant-General of the Federation, Shamsedeen Ogunjimi, which sought to prevent the Federal Government from releasing withheld local government funds to court-sacked local government chairmen and councillors elected during former Governor Adegboyega Oyetola’s tenure.

Speaking in court, the government’s counsel, Musibau Adetumbi, SAN, said the purpose of the suit, which was to safeguard the funds, had been overtaken by events, as the money had already been released.

A statement shared with Saturday PUNCH quoted Adetumbi as saying, “On September 29, 2025, I told the court our aim was to safeguard the money. Between then and now, the money was moved out of the CBN.”

“Assuming, without conceding, that the court-sacked APC chairmen and councillors had a tenure, it lapsed on Wednesday, October 16, 2025.”

Counsel for the defendants, Muritala Abdulrasheed and Tajudeen Oladoja, did not oppose the discontinuance but challenged claims in the plaintiff’s affidavit of facts.

Abdulrasheed said some statements in the affidavit were “damaging” and against individuals not party to the suit. He urged the court to expunge paragraphs five to eleven of the affidavit, describing the grounds for discontinuance as “in bad faith.”

Oladoja, while not opposing the withdrawal, said the plaintiff’s second ground — that the money had been paid — was untrue, since the AGF had not been given the opportunity to respond. He also sought N10m in costs, citing wasted court time and processes.

Responding, Adetumbi maintained that under Federal High Court Rules, a notice of discontinuance does not attract costs, arguing that the defendants had not filed processes before the court.

The trial judge, Justice Emeka Nwite, adjourned until October 29 to rule on the discontinuance and related applications.

The federal government has released N32.9 billion under the Basic Health Care Provision Fund ( BHCPF) to enhance primary healthcare services nationwide.

The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Muhammad Pate, announced this in a public message titled

“The Red Letter: A National Call to Protect Our Health” on Wednesday.

According to the minister, the funds have already been disbursed directly into the commercial bank accounts of PHCs, marking the third round of BHCPF releases in 2025.

“This money is not sitting in Abuja,” Mr Pate said.

“It has already begun its journey into the accounts of primary health care facilities in every ward across Nigeria. It is your clinic’s money. It is your community’s chance. It is your country’s promise.”

The minister urged Nigerians to take ownership of their health system and play active roles in monitoring how the funds are used.

“Stand up and take ownership. Go to your health facility. Join the committee. Review the plan. Demand openness. Celebrate progress. And above all, make sure the fund truly protects the health of your people,” Mr Pate said.


Community involvement

Mr Pate said the BHCPF is the heartbeat of Nigeria’s renewed hope in health, “a signal that government is not only fulfilling its responsibility as the custodian of the fund, but trusting you to help safeguard that spending.”

He, however, noted that many communities fail to track how the funds are used.

“But too often, we have observed that communities stand aside. Our community members and institutions do not ask how the money is used, or if it reaches the people it was meant for. When that happens, silence becomes a loss,” he said.

“Each naira in this N32.9 billion is a seed. When you nurture it with vigilance and pride, it grows into medicine, safe births, better infrastructure, and lives saved. When you neglect it, it withers into waste.

“Let this Red Letter reach every community, every ward, and every home. Let it remind us that the health of Nigeria lives in the hands of Nigerians.”

About BHCPF

The BHCPF, established under the National Health Act (2014), aims to improve primary healthcare in Nigeria by reducing out-of-pocket costs and improving outcomes.

The fund is jointly managed by the Federal Ministry of Health, the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), and the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), with direct transfers to accredited facilities.

As of June, the government announced a fresh disbursement of N32.88 billion under the BHCPF to revamp more than 8,000 primary health-care centres across Nigeria.

Also in September, the Executive Director of NPHCDA, Muyi Aina, said the government has disbursed N192 billion to strengthen primary healthcare facilities under the BHCPF.

The statement was made during the “National Health Financing Policy Dialogue: Reimagining the Future of Health Financing in Nigeria,” organised by NHIA and partners.

The incident tested the country’s nascent democracy, just five years after its return to civilian rule. Nearly 30 mid-ranking officers were implicated.

Remi Oyo, presidential spokesperson at the time, said “serious breaches of security” prompted an investigation which led to arrests.

“Let me say that President Olusegun Obasanjo trusts the security agencies and officials of government,” Oyo said in a statement.

“He believes in the Nigerian people. He knows that the Nigerian people believe in democracy and will continue to work for and with democracy and what the intelligence community is doing is not anything extraordinary, it’s all in its job.”

In October of the same year, the government publicly admitted the coup, four military officers and a civilian were charged with plotting to kill Obasanjo by shooting down his helicopter with a missile.

The military officers included, Hamza Al-Mustapha, a major and the former head of personal security of Sani Abacha, late head of state; Mohammed Umar Adeka, a lieutenant colonel; Yakubu Kudambo, a navy commander; and Tijani Abdallah, a lieutenant. The civilian was Onwuchekwa Okorie.

The men faced two count charges each of treason. Al-Mustapha, Adeka, and Okorie pleaded not guilty at a federal high court in Lagos. Kudambo and Abdallah were charged in absentia.

According to the charges, Al-Mustapha gave various sums of money through Okorie to Abdallah between November 2002 and March 2004 “for the purpose of purchasing a Stinger surface-to-air missile to be used in shooting down the President’s helicopter with the President on board”.

Abdallah subsequently made several trips to Togo and Cote d’Ivoire in an effort to acquire the US-made shoulder-fired missile, the charge sheet said.

Meanwhile, Kudambo prepared the draft of a coup speech outlining a new regime to replace Obasanjo’s elected government, it added.

Al-Mustapha, Adeka, and Okorie pleaded not guilty in court, while Kudambo and Abdallah were charged in absentia.

That was the government’s first admission of the reported coup.

After overthrowing the short-lived transitional civilian government of Ernest Shonekan in November 1993, Abacha faced strong criticism from Obasanjo, who became one of his most vocal opponents.

Obasanjo was later arrested and imprisoned in 1995 over an alleged coup plot against Abacha.

Obasanjo himself was a former military ruler who voluntarily handed power to democratically elected Shehu Shagari in 1979.

It was the first time a Nigerian military leader would willingly relinquish power to a civilian government.

Nigeria Police have arraigned Nnamdi Kanu’s lawyer, Aloy Ejimakor, his brother Prince Emmanuel Kanu and 10 others following the #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest in Abuja on Monday.

The court document to this effect was shared by former National Chairman of the Human Rights Commission of Nigeria, HRCN, Prof Chidi Odinkalu, via X on Tuesday.

Police are charging them for inciting disturbance, and breach of public peace in disobedience to a court order.

According to the document sighted by DAILY POST, the suspects denied other citizens the freedom of movement, disrupting free flow of traffic while chanting war songs and requesting for the release of Nnamdi Kanu.

DAILY POST reported that Benjamin Hundeyin, Force Public Relations Officer, had while fielding questions on Channels Television’s Politics Today programme on Monday said Ejimakor and Kanu’s brother, alongside others, would be charged on Tuesday.

Hundeyin further stated that those arrested during the protest would be charged to court after investigation.

He said: “We arrested Nnamdi Kanu’s brother, his lawyer because they insisted on making way to the restricted areas. And not just two of them, six others were also arrested around TRANSCORP, and for this same reason. So we arrested a total of eight of them.

“They are currently at the state CID, and once we conclude our investigation, just like we said in our statement, that anybody who violated that court order would be arrested, diligently investigated and prosecuted.

“So once we conclude that, which we should tonight, then they’ll be prosecuted immediately, in less than 24 hours, they will be facing the court.”

Nationwide protest: Huge crowds marched in major cities and smaller gatherings were held across the country for “No Kings” protests against President Donald Trump’s administration. Organizers said there were nearly 7 million people at more than 2,700 events in all 50 states, which police said were mostly peaceful, with many large cities reporting no protest-related incidents or arrests.

• Why they protested: Demonstrators voiced outrage at a range of Trump’s policies but some key themes took center stage, including perceived threats to democracy, the administration’s ICE raids and troop deployments in US cities, and cuts to federal programs, especially health care. Here’s what we heard from protesters.

• Government at a standstill: The protests had as backdrop a federal government shutdown, with GOP lawmakers and the White House locked in a standoff with Democrats over a funding bill.

Chukwuma Soludo , governor of Anambra, says he does not support separatist agitation in the south-east and believes the region’s development is tied to its continued unity with Nigeria.

Speaking on ‘Sunday Politics’, a Channels Television programme, Soludo said while he respects the right to peaceful protest, he does not share Nnamdi Kanu’s secessionist vision for the Igbo nation.

He added that the sit-at-home directive has largely faded in Anambra, adding that residents now go about their normal businesses.

“We’ve made it very clear that if you are protesting or agitating for anything, you are holding yourself down by killing your own people under the pretext of Monday’s sit-at-home,” Soludo said.

“Anybody sitting at home now is doing so out of his own preference, not because of insecurity, as it were, because everywhere is secure on Mondays.”

The governor noted that Kanu and the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) have already disowned the sit-at-home order, blaming criminal groups for exploiting it to terrorise residents.

“Even Nnamdi Kanu himself and his IPOB are on record to have said they did not support the Monday sit-at-home; it was some criminal elements doing that. And we thank them for their word,” he said.

Soludo also said his administration’s focus is on governance and delivering results, not activism.

“As for those who are agitating or going to have demonstrations, they have a right to do so,” he said.

“In a democracy, everybody has freedom of expression. But mine is to govern. While social activists to their job, I will do my own.”

The governor said he had earlier urged Ohanaeze Ndigbo and other regional leaders to engage Kanu in dialogue once he is released.

He added that no one person holds a monopoly of ideas about the region’s future.

“I said, why don’t they tell Nnamdi Kanu to come and sit with everybody else, because nobody has a greater right than the other? We are all Igbos, and we are all entitled to our views,” he said.

Soludo restated his belief in a united Nigeria, describing the Igbo as a people whose strength and prosperity depend on co-existence.

“I am of the view that the Igbo man needs Nigeria and Nigeria needs the Igbo man,” the Anambra governor said.

“The Igbo man needs Africa, and Africa needs the Igbo man. We are an itinerant people who cannot afford to be intolerant. That’s my view.”

He added that Nigeria’s diversity is by divine design and must be harnessed for national growth.

“Do we need Nigeria? Absolutely! And Nigeria needs us. That is my very deep belief,” Soludo said.

“I canvass it with no apologies and hold on to that. I’m prepared to debate this with anyone on the future prosperity of the Igbos.”

Soludo’s comments come amid growing calls for the release of Kanu, the IPOB leader, with opposition figures including Atiku Abubakar and Omoyele Sowore mobilising for a peaceful protest tagged #FreeNnamdiKanuNow, scheduled for October 20 in Abuja.

Kanu, the IPOB leader, has been in the custody of the Department of State Services (DSS) since his re-arrest in June 2021.

The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, has criticised one of Nnamdi Kanu’s lawyers, Aloy Ejimakor, for joining a protest in Abuja, describing his action as unethical and deserving of sanctions.

In a statement posted on X on Monday, Onanuga said he spotted Ejimakor among protesters allegedly mobilised by activist Omoyele Sowore.

He said the lawyer’s participation in the demonstration, despite Kanu’s ongoing treason case in court, was a violation of the principle of sub judice.

According to him, “Rather than focusing on preparing a strong defence for Kanu, Mr. Ejimakor has resorted to extra-legal tactics by joining a career anarchist to influence the process.”

Onanuga further stated that Ejimakor’s conduct called into question his professional ethics and urged legal authorities to consider appropriate disciplinary action against him.

“I spotted Aloy Ejimakor, one of Nnamdi Kanu’s lawyers, among the small group of protesters mobilised in Abuja by Omoyele Sowore. I wonder what Mr. Ejimakor was thinking when he decided to join this shambolic protest.

“As a lawyer, he should be aware of the principle of sub judice, particularly in relation to the ongoing treason case before the court. The prosecution has concluded its case, and it is now incumbent upon Mr. Ejimakor and the other lawyers to mount a strong defence for Kanu.

“Rather than focusing on preparing a strong case, Mr. Ejimakor has resorted to extra-legal tactics, joining a career anarchist, to influence the process. Ejimakor’s action questions his adherence to professional ethics.

He urged the relevant legal authorities, including the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee (LPDC), to examine Ejimakor’s conduct and consider appropriate sanctions for what he described as “unethical behaviour.”

Legal authorities should consider appropriate sanctions for the unethical conduct of the bearded lawyer,” Onanuga wrote.

I spotted Aloy Ejimakor, one of Nnamdi Kanu’s lawyers, among the small group of protesters mobilised in Abuja by Omoyele Sowore. I wonder what Mr. Ejimakor was thinking when he decided to join this shambolic protest. As a lawyer, he should be aware of the principle of sub judice,....
pic.twitter.com/sOfr0vtv3U
— Bayo Onanuga (@aonanuga1956) October 20, 2025

Former presidential aide, Bashir Ahmad, has commended a senior adviser to United States President Donald Trump, Massad Boulos, for refuting claims that Christians are being specifically targeted in Nigeria.

Boulos, who served as Trump’s Senior Adviser on Arab and African Affairs, had stated that terrorist groups such as Boko Haram and ISIS have killed more Muslims than Christians in Nigeria.

He made the remark in a video shared by the Nigerian Television Authority on Friday while responding to questions about comments from some US politicians alleging that Christians were being persecuted in Nigeria.

Boulos described such claims as “unfortunate and misleading,” insisting that terrorism in Nigeria is not religiously motivated but stems from broader insecurity affecting citizens of all faiths.

“Any incident, any loss of life, is absolutely unfortunate. Those who know the terrain well know that terrorism has no colour, no religion and no tribe.

People of all religions and all tribes are dying as a result of terrorist acts. We even know that Boko Haram and ISIS are killing more Muslims than Christians,” he said.

The US diplomat also acknowledged that clashes between farmers and herders had occurred in the Middle Belt but maintained that they were not driven by religion.

Boulos also commended President Bola Tinubu’s administration for intensifying efforts to improve security across volatile regions, noting that recent measures were beginning to yield results.

He also praised Nigeria’s long-standing tradition of religious coexistence, describing the country’s diversity as a source of unity rather than division.

“Nigeria is a country in which all sorts of religious, ethnic and tribal groups have lived together in harmony for centuries. The population is split 50-50 between Christians and Muslims, so this has never been a serious religious issue and should not be,” Boulos added.

Reacting to Boulos’ comments in a post via his X handle on Friday, Ahmad said the U.S. official’s comments should lead to stronger and coordinated action by Nigerian troops against those terrorists and other criminal elements.

He wrote, “Good to see senior US officials publicly pushing back against that dangerous Christian genocide narrative.

“I hope this clearer framing leads to stronger and coordinated action by our troops against those terrorists and other criminal elements.”

The Federal High Court in Abuja has reaffirmed its earlier order directing all parties to maintain the status quo regarding the forthcoming Peoples Democratic Party National Convention slated for November 15 and 16, 2025, in Ibadan, Oyo State.

Presiding judge, Justice James Omotosho, on Thursday, held that the previous order remains valid and must not be violated by any party pending the determination of the substantive suit.

Justice Omotosho warned that any attempt to take actions capable of undermining the court’s authority or rendering its eventual decision ineffective would attract consequential sanctions.

The warning followed a complaint by PDP’s counsel, Chief Chris Uche (SAN), who told the court that his client was restrained by the subsisting order and therefore sought an expedited hearing.

In response, the judge assured all parties that judgment in the case would be delivered before the end of October, stressing that no party would be permitted to employ delay tactics.

“You and I, as lawyers and ministers in the temple of justice, know that once a suit has been filed and parties have been served, the law is that no further step should be taken concerning the subject matter. The court must not be overreached,” Omotosho said.

He added,“Where any party violates this principle, the court has the power to issue consequential orders nullifying such acts. Let us all respect the law; it is in our collective interest. I assure you that judgment will be delivered before the end of October, and copies will be made available immediately.”

The court fixed Monday, October 20, for the definite hearing of the originating summons filed by three aggrieved PDP members against the Independent National Electoral Commission and eight others.

The plaintiffs are Austin Nwachukwu (Imo PDP Chairman), Amah Abraham Nnanna (Abia PDP Chairman), and Turnah George (PDP Secretary, South-South).

They are seeking to stop the party’s planned national convention, scheduled for November 15 and 16, 2025, in Ibadan, Oyo State, where new national officers are to be elected.

Listed as defendants in the suit are INEC, the PDP, Senator Samuel Anyanwu (National Secretary), Umar Bature (National Organising Secretary), the National Working Committee (NWC), and the National Executive Committee of the party.

At the last sitting, the court joined Umar Damagum, Ali Odefa, and Emmanuel Ogidi as the 7th to 9th defendants, following a successful application for joinder.

In the suit marked FHC/ABJ/CS/2120/2025, the plaintiffs are seeking declarations and injunctive orders compelling the PDP to adhere strictly to democratic principles in the conduct of its congresses, conventions, and internal elections.

They contend that the party failed to hold the required congresses to elect delegates for the planned convention, thereby invalidating any notice issued to INEC.

The plaintiffs also asked the court to restrain INEC from recognising or giving effect to any notice or outcome of the PDP convention unless it is conducted in full compliance with the 1999 Constitution (as amended), the Electoral Act 2022, and INEC’s 2022 Regulations and Guidelines for Political Parties.

They further seek orders restraining the PDP and its officials from holding any National Executive Committee, National Caucus, or Working Committee meetings without due notice from the National Secretary.

Justice Omotosho directed all parties to exchange their processes by October 17 to ensure a smooth hearing.

During Thursday’s proceedings, the PDP was represented by Chief Chris Uche (SAN) and the party’s National Legal Adviser, Kamaldeen Ajibade (SAN). The judge, however, directed both lawyers to file formal papers to enable the court to determine the party’s proper legal representative in the case.

The Imo State Police Command has summoned the leader of the Movement for the Actualization of the Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB), Chief Ralph Uwazuruike, to appear before its Anti-Kidnapping Unit (AKU) over alleged criminal offences.

Uwazuruike was invited to report at the AKU headquarters in Owerri on Monday, October 20, the same day civil society organizations are expected to hold nationwide peaceful protests demanding the release of detained Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Nnamdi Kanu.

According to the police invitation letter, Uwazuruike is to answer questions regarding alleged criminal invasion, forgery, and wilful damage.

The letter, jointly signed by ASP John Ebute, ASP Eze Jet, and Inspector Alice Zakari, was dated October 16, 2025.

Reacting to the development, MASSOB described the police invitation as a possible attempt to prevent Uwazuruike from participating in the planned peaceful protest.

In a statement issued on Uwazuruike’s behalf by his Director of Information, Mazi Chris Mocha, and made available to newsmen, MASSOB confirmed that the pro-Biafra leader had been directed to report to the Anti-Kidnapping Unit by 10:00 a.m. on Monday, October 20.

The statement quoted Uwazuruike as saying in a recent viral video:

“I will be part of any peaceful protest for Nnamdi Kanu’s release. This is not about Kanu alone; it is about our collective dignity as a people.
I have no problem with the police invitation. It is clear the summon was intended to prevent me from joining the planned peaceful protest on October 20. I remain firm, calm, and unshaken.”

MASSOB further noted that Uwazuruike, who has consistently advocated non-violence as the guiding principle of Biafra’s self-determination struggle, said his support for the protest was based on conscience and justice, not confrontation.

A former Big Brother Naija housemate and Influencer, Natasha Akide, popularly known as Tacha, has called out Nigerians for directing all their frustrations at President Bola Tinubu while ignoring the roles of governors, senators, and local government chairmen in governance.

In a viral video posted on Monday, Tacha referenced the Federation Account Allocation Committee’s recent disbursement of ₦2.2 trillion to the federal, state, and local governments, stressing that money is available but is being grossly mismanaged.

She said, “44 billion, I didn’t say million, 44 billion has been disbursed to a local government chairman.

“Watch how they’ll do absolutely nothing with it, because at the end of the day, they understand that Nigerians will come out and drag Tinubu.

“They’ll come out and drag the presidency.”
According to her, public outrage is often misdirected at the president or Lagos, which she described as one of the best performing states, while underperforming leaders at the grassroots escape scrutiny.

“It be like say only two people, Nigerians like to drag for this country. Every Nigerian has believed that their problem is Tinubu.

“Even with the fact that as little as a local government chairman’s office is, their responsibilities are a lot and they are absolutely doing nothing,” she said.

The reality star also challenged citizens to hold their representatives accountable, arguing that most people cannot even name their local government chairman, let alone demand accountability for their performance.

“Money has been given to your state governors, money has been given to your local government chairman, your House of Reps members, your senators.

“Hold them by their neck, let them deliver. If you start dragging these people individually, we’ll see that Nigeria will change,” she added.

Tacha concluded by urging Nigerians to “drag everybody” in leadership positions instead of focusing on a single political office.

Recall that FAAC, in its August 2025 meeting, shared a total of ₦2.2 trillion among the federal, state, and local governments, representing one of the highest monthly allocations in recent years.

The All Progressives Congress, APC, in Lagos State has accused former Labour Party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi of suffering from political selective amnesia.
It’s comment is in reaction to Obi’s remark that nobody can capture the Southeast with defections.

Obi’s remark followed the current wave of defections from the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, to the APC in the Southeast and Southsouth.
However, the spokesman of the state chapter of APC, Mogaji Seye Oladejo, said Obi lacks the moral right to lecture anybody on defection because he is a serial defector.

In a statement he signed, Oladejo said: “The attention of the Lagos State Chapter of the All Progressives Congress, APC, has been drawn to the latest outburst from Mr Peter Obi, who claimed that “nobody can capture the South-East with defections.”

"As usual, Obi’s statement is long on drama but short on logic- a desperate attempt to stay politically relevant in a fast-evolving Nigeria that has moved on from empty populism.

“It is rather amusing that the same Peter Obi – the undisputed master defector in Nigerian politics – now pretends to have a moral right to lecture anyone about political loyalty. This is the man who moved from APGA to PDP, then to the Labour Party, and who, according to credible whispers within his shrinking camp, is already in the political marketplace shopping for yet another platform to inherit before 2027.

“Suddenly, the serial defector is suffering selective amnesia when discussing others’ political moves.”

Oladejo reminded the former Anambra State governor that his entire career has been built on defection, opportunism, and expediency, adding that

“If there were a trophy for political cross-carpeting, Obi would be its unchallenged winner.”
He added: “Let it be made clear: the APC is not “capturing” the South-East – the region is voluntarily aligning with the national mainstream because Nigerians are done with emotional blackmail, divisive rhetoric, and politics of victimhood.

The people of the South-East deserve inclusion, infrastructure, and investment – not empty crusades and sentimental activism.

“Obi also needs to be reminded that power is not served à la carte. It is earned through structure, consistency, and the ability to build bridges across the federation – all of which he sorely lacks. His politics of isolation and sanctimony may have once excited social media, but Nigeria of today demands substance, not sympathy.

“He’s been told loud and clear that the South East is not his fiefdom. Divisive and religious politics no longer have a place in a country that is finally embracing unity and progress under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. That’s the new reality.

“In truth, Peter Obi now stands politically stranded – abandoned by allies, weakened by reality, and walking alone in a wilderness of his own making. The earlier he faces that truth, the better for what remains of his political relevance.”

Some leaders from the northern part of the country on Monday visited the leadership of the pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, to declare their collaboration with the South-West in supporting President Bola Tinubu’s re-election in 2027.

The northern leaders, under the aegis of the Arewa Think Tank, said they were impressed with the midterm scorecard of the president, hence the move to support him to run for a second term.

The convener of the group, Muhammad Yakubu, led the team from the north to visit leaders of Afenifere at the residence of its National Leader, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, in Akure, the Ondo State capital.

Yakubu stated that the Think Tank group comprised professionals from the 19 states of the north, while a former Governor of Kaduna State, Mallam Muktair Yero, is their chairman.

Yakubu said, “So we are here today to renew our relationship with the South-West, to reassure the South-West that the North will stand by President Ahmed Tinubu and we want to also thank you (Fasoranti), sir, for the South-West to have given us a Nigerian president who has a vision, who has a mission, who has been doing well in the last two years.

“We are also here to present to you (Fasoranti) his mid-term scorecard, President Ahmed Bola Tinubu’s impressive mid-term scorecard. We are very sure and very hopeful that he will take us to the promised land. We have seen in the last two years, we have seen what inter-regional collaboration and support can do and what he has done to move this country forward.

“We are happy with him. We are impressed with his scorecard so far and we want to renew this support and collaboration with the South-West. We also want to thank the South-West elders, particularly the Afeniferes.”

Speaking on behalf of Pa Reuben Fasoranti, a former Secretary to the Government of the Federation and monarch of Ilu Abo community in Ondo State, Oba Olu Falae lauded the visitors for their wish to collaborate with southerners in supporting the President Tinubu administration.

Falae expressed hope that the administration would benefit the entire country, given the ongoing economic reforms embarked upon by the Tinubu administration.

“We thank God now that we have a civilian president who has demonstrated, first, his understanding of the problems of Nigeria and the courage to deal with those problems. We all knew that our subsidy was benefiting a gang of people who became billionaires at our expense.

“But they persuaded us that it was in the interest of the masses that we should stay. No government in the past had the courage to touch it. But Tinubu had the courage, and he did it.

“Secondly, as an economist, as a banker, I was horrified that Nigeria had about six different exchange rates. If you want to import raw materials, you’ve got a rate. If you want to subscribe to a professional society abroad, you’ve got a rate.

“If you are going on pilgrimage, you’ve got a rate. No country with multiple exchange rates is ever going to succeed or attract investments from abroad because people want to be certain what the exchange rate will be, first when they’re investing, and second, when they’re repatriating.

Again, no government had the courage to touch those exchange rates. Tinubu had the courage to remove them.

“When he did so, many people screamed and shouted because it was painful. The price of petrol went up about ₦400 to ₦1,200 and the price of everything went up. It was a terrible, terrible hard time. But what he did was absolutely necessary.

All I can say is that, if I was the one doing it with my experience, there were a few things I would have done before announcing those changes to minimise the negative effect. But we thank God things are getting better now. The prices of food are down,” Falae said.

In his remarks, the Organising Secretary of Afenifere, Abagun Kole Omololu, said the wishes of the northern leaders were a welcome development and expressed assurance that President Bola Tinubu would win the next presidential election.

Nigerian industrialist Aliko Dangote is set to become the first African to have a net worth of $30 billion.

According to the latest Bloomberg Billionaires Index, Dangote's net worth increased by $401 million (about N601 billion) in one day, taking his total fortune to $29.6 billion.

The gain has pushed him up the world billionaires ranking to the 76th position, his highest placement in history.

Checks by Legit.ng showed that no African’s wealth has ever reached Dangote’s current level, and with another $400 million, he is set to make history again.

This is not the first time Dangote has come close to hitting the $30 billion mark; at the start of the year, he was valued at around $28.1 billion on Bloomberg’s index.

However, his net worth dropped by about $400 million in June and has since hovered around $26 billion.

He has bounced back in recent days, increasing his wealth by $1.51 billion year-to-date.

This time, the $30 billion target appears more attainable than ever, with the milestone now clearly within reach.


Why Dangote’s net worth is climbing

According to BusinessDay, Dangote’s net worth is rising due to the strong performance of his listed companies on the Nigerian Exchange.

These companies, Dangote Cement, Dangote Sugar, and NASCON and make up the majority of his visible wealth.

Although the refinery is not listed, it has been a key factor in the recent revaluation of his wealth to its current level.

Private depots slash fuel prices, rival Dangote refinery for customers

The Dangote cement , which makes up a huge part of Dangote's wealth, share price rose by 9.5%, translating to about $497.3 million in added wealth per BusinessDay

In contrast, Dangote Sugar Refinery saw a 1.3% decline in share price. This drop reduced the value of his holdings in the company by around $4.76 million.

The loss was, however, offset by a $4.52 million gain from NASCON Allied Industries, which also saw an uptick during the week

Former Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide President and All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain, Engr. Udengs Eradiri, has called on the Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri to ensure the reconciliation of warring factions within the Bayelsa APC, particularly the camps of former Governor Timipre Sylva and Minister of State for Petroleum, Heineken Lokpobiri.

The call by Eradiri is in anticipation of Diri’s imminent defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC had called on the Governor to deploy his trademark calm leadership style in prioritizing the initiative upon his defection.

Speaking in Port Harcourt, Eradiri cautioned Diri against any pressure to sideline Sylva, describing him as the “foundation pillar” of the APC in Bayelsa. He stressed that excluding Sylva from the realignment talks would spell trouble for the party’s unity and prospects in the state.

“The day you join the APC, you automatically become its leader in Bayelsa. But that leadership must come with balance and respect for those who built the structure. “Sylva toiled to build this party when most people were still in the PDP. You can’t erase that history,” Eradiri stated.

He accused some party elements of attempting to pitch Lokpobiri against Sylva, insisting that Diri’s entry into the APC should instead strengthen, not divide, the party.

“Lokpobiri must also show respect for the man who laid the foundation. You, Governor Diri, must bring your peaceful nature to bear and harmonize these interests before your formal defection,”

Eradiri added. Eradiri said Bayelsa stands to gain massively from Diri’s move to the ruling party, provided the governor demonstrates strong, inclusive leadership.

He recalled urging Diri and other Ijaw leaders including former Governor Seriake Dickson to align with the federal government for the state’s development.

Eradiri argued that joining the APC would give Bayelsa better access to federal opportunities and foreign investments.

“When you’re in the ruling party, you sit at the table where national decisions are made. “If you’re not aligned, even investors you meet abroad will take their capital to APC states. But as part of the federal team, you can market Bayelsa directly alongside the President,” he noted.

Eradiri emphasized the need for Ijaw representation at the highest decision- making levels in Nigeria, lamenting their absence in recent APC strategic meetings. He said,

“We are the fourth-largest ethnic nationality in Nigeria. We can’t keep contributing to the nation’s wealth while being absent from key national discussions. “Governor Diri’s defection must correct that imbalance. We are ready to support him to succeed.”

Ahead of the planned defections of Governors Peter Mbah of Enugu State and Duoye Diri of Bayelsa State to the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, there is disquiet in both states.

Mbah and Diri, who were elected on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, have reportedly concluded plans to dump their party for the APC.

They are expected to do so on October 14
However, Vanguard gathered that the defections may be delayed due to the crisis that erupted in Enugu APC over the weekend.

In readiness for Mbah, the National Working Committee, NWC, of the APC, last Thursday, dissolved Enugu State Working Committee, SWC, and set up a caretaker committee, led by Ben Nwoye.

While the Ben Nwoye committee is ready to welcome Governor Mbah, the dissolved SWC is kicking, insisting it is still in charge.

The leadership of the PDP in Enugu and Bayelsa have kept sealed lips on the issue, despite several attempts to get their views.

Division in Bayelsa

In Bayelsa, Diri’s planned defection to the APC has elicited reactions from stakeholders in the predominantly Ijaw speaking state.

While some defended the move, saying it would align the state with the APC controlled central government and as such attract more federal patronage, others dismissed it as self-serving, wondering the difference it would make in a state dominated by the PDP in the last 26 years, with the latter at the centre for 16 years.

Though a source close to the Bayelsa seat of government confirmed that all was set for the governor’s defection he, however, faulted the October 14 date being speculated in the mainstream media and the social media.

The source, who pleaded anonymity, said: “Yes, the governor is leaving the PDP but the October 14 date reported in the media is what I cannot guarantee. He has told us he’s leaving and as a leader, ours is to follow him. He will personally make his decision public soon.”

We are ready for Diri — APC

Attempts to get officials of the state PDP executives to speak on the development proved abortive but the state chairman of the APC, Chief Dennis Otiotio, said:

“The APC Bayelsa State chapter is ready to welcome any politician that is prepared to support the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu and his reelection in 2027.

‘’We believe the President has done well for the South-South, and all the governors of the region should, therefore, rally round to support him in the 2027 presidential election. We will be happy to receive Senator Douye Diri into the APC, anytime he decides to defect.”

But another state official of the APC who spoke anonymously, said: “I cannot react to speculation. We have not been officially communicated about the said defection.”

The Federal Government of Nigeria has reduced the cost of kidney dialysis from ₦50,000 to ₦12,000 per session, a 76 to 80 per cent subsidy.
This initiative aims to make dialysis more affordable for thousands of Nigerians battling kidney-related diseases.

The participating hospitals are: Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Ebute-Metta, Lagos, Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Jabi, Abuja, and the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan.

The rest are: Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Owerri, University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH), as well as the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Abeokuta.

Others are: Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), Lagos, Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Azare, and the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH), Benin.

They also include: University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH), Calabar as well as the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital (ATBUTH), Bauchi.

This initiative is part of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, aiming to ensure Nigerians have access to affordable healthcare.

In Kano State, Mr Tinubu’s 80 per cent dialysis subsidy has led to a significant increase in patient attendance at the Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital (AKTH), Kano.

The intervention, under the Renewed Hope Agenda, has slashed the cost of dialysis from between N50,000 and N60,000 per session to N12,000, providing relief to indigent kidney patients.

Speaking on the development, the Deputy Director of Nursing Services at AKTH, Tijjani Rahim, who is also the Head of the Dialysis Unit, said the unit now attends to between 22 and 25 patients daily.

He stated that the spike in the number of patients followed the implementation of the federal government’s subsidy programme, making AKTH one of the first hospitals to benefit from the scheme.

During a visit to the AKTH Dialysis Centre, some patients expressed gratitude for the intervention, describing it as life-saving.

A patient, Sani Musa, recalled paying between N54,000 and N60,000 per dialysis session before the subsidy.

He said the cost was later reduced to N20,000 and now stands at N12,000.

Another patient, Mamuda Aliyu, said the reduction from N60,000 to N12,000 per session had enabled him to continue treatment.

Similarly, Hafiza Isa, who is also undergoing dialysis, confirmed that she previously paid N60,000, then N55,000, N45,000, and later N20,000 before the current rate was introduced.

The patients, however, appealed to the federal government to consider making dialysis treatment entirely free to further ease their burden.

Also speaking, the Chief Medical Director of AKTH, Abdurrahman Sheshe, said the subsidised dialysis programme had commenced at the hospital.

According to him, the hospital has received consumables to cater for 1,000 dialysis sessions under the initiative.

Mr Sheshe spoke during the launch of the National Emergency Medical Services and Ambulance Scheme (NEMSAS) at the hospital.

He explained that the NEMSAS programme would provide 48 hours of free medical care and emergency transportation for pregnant women, children, accident victims, and other critical cases

He appealed to the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare and philanthropists for support to sustain the programmes.

The dialysis subsidy is part of the federal government’s broader health sector reforms, which also include the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF) and NEMSAS.

It is aimed at strengthening emergency response and reducing the financial burden on patients.
NAN reports that on 21 August 2025, the federal government approved the dialysis subsidy scheme for 11 federal tertiary health institutions across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.

President Bola Tinubu will depart Abuja on Sunday, October 12, for Rome, the capital of Italy, to participate in the Aqaba Process Heads of State and Government Level Meeting, with special focus on the security crisis in West Africa.

The meeting, which will begin on October 14, will bring together Heads of State and Government, senior intelligence and military officials from African countries, and representatives of intergovernmental and non-governmental organisations to discuss the evolving security challenges in West Africa.

The Aqaba Process Meeting is a counter-terrorism initiative launched by King Abdullah II of Jordan in 2015. It is co–chaired by the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan and the Italian Government.

It recognises the complex security challenges confronting West Africa, including the expansion of terrorist networks, the growing crime-terror nexus and the increasing overlap between land-based terrorism in the Sahel and the maritime piracy in the Gulf of Guinea.

At the meeting, participants will exchange assessments of the current security landscape in West Africa and foster collaboration between regional and international partners to address cross-border security challenges. Participants will also develop strategies to counter the terror threat on land and the sea.

The meeting will discuss ideas on how to coordinate efforts to combat online radicalisation and disrupt digital networks that facilitate terrorist propaganda and recruitment.

In addition to attending the plenary sessions of the Aqaba meeting, President Tinubu will hold bilateral talks with other leaders to explore ways of addressing the rising security challenges across the subregion.

The President will be accompanied by the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu–Ojukwu, the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, the Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), Ambassador Mohammed Mohammed, and other senior government officials.


Bayo Onanuga
Special Adviser to the President
(Information & Strategy)

President Bola Tinubu has congratulated former Vice President Namadi Sambo on his turbaning as the Sardaunan Zazzau by the Emir of Zazzau, His Royal Highness Alhaji Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, scheduled for Saturday.

In a statement issued on Friday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu said the prestigious title reflects the Emirate’s confidence in Sambo’s integrity, wisdom, and lifelong commitment to public service.

“The title of Sardaunan Zazzau, a position of great cultural and historical significance in Northern Nigeria, reflects the Emirate’s confidence in the former Vice President’s wisdom, integrity, and commitment to society’s progress,” the President stated.

President Tinubu described the honour as “a recognition of Sambo’s exemplary leadership and contributions to national development,” adding that his investiture was well deserved.

He praised the former Vice President for his “record of humility, statesmanship, and dedication to humanity,” noting that the new title “further underscores his deep-rooted service to his community and the nation.”

The President also commended the Emir of Zazzau, Alhaji Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, for “upholding the noble tradition of honouring individuals whose character, leadership, and patriotism embody the Emirate’s values and reflect the spirit of unity, service, and integrity.”

While extending his best wishes to the former Vice President in his new traditional role, President Tinubu encouraged him to continue contributing to national unity and peace.

“I urge the Sardaunan Zazzau to keep inspiring and guiding the younger generation, and to work closely with traditional and community leaders to advance peace and development in our country,” he added.

The turbaning ceremony is expected to attract dignitaries from across Nigeria, celebrating Sambo’s decades of service in politics and public life.

The family of the late General Mamman Jiya Vatsa has commended President Bola Tinubu for granting a posthumous state pardon to the former FCT minister.

General Vatsa was executed in 1986 over an alleged coup plot against General Ibrahim Babangida’s regime. Recall the late Vatsa was executed alongside nine other military officers in 1986 after a Military Tribunal found them guilty.

The family in a statement issued by its spokesman, Mr. Jonathan Vatsa, described the news of the pardon as the greatest moment of joy since Vatsa’s execution 39 years ago.

According to Vatsa, after several appeals to every successful administration, God has finally used President Tinubu to console the family, the Gulu Vatsa community, Lapai local government and the entire state.

“Today is the happiest moment in the life of the family after 39 years of sorrow and sadness following the killing of our late father, brother and uncle.

“Though nothing can bring him back to life, the family is consoled by this display of statesmanship by our dear president, Tinubu. He has written his name in gold, and history will forever remember him.

“Justice can never be denied but can only be delayed, the family is convinced that the late Vatsa must be a Happy person today in his grave by this singular act of compassion by President Tinubu. This goes to show that truth doesn’t expire”, Vatsa added.

He described the alleged 1986 coup as a frame-up, and the trial, a stage-managed one just to eliminate the late Vatsa out of envy and hatred for a man who has a root and identity.

He disclosed that “a highly respected Military General, late Domkat Bali, once said in an interview that the evidence against General Vatsa was weak and that he doesn’t know whether he was supposed to have been killed.

“That is why the family still maintained that the late Vatsa was innocent of the coup. But we still thank President Tinubu for his magnanimity in granting him the state pardon.

“How we wished this was happening when the late wife, some of his late children were still alive, notwithstanding we thank God that some of the children and grandchildren are still alive to witness this pardon”.

A report by Sahara Reporters, an online news platform owned by African Action Congress’ presidential candidate in the last general election, Omoyele Sowore, claimed that the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, boycotted the Council of State meeting.

This in a protest over President Bola Tinubu’s choice of a new chairman for the (Independent National Electoral Commission), and that he influenced other leaders to stay away.

A review of constitutional provisions, official records, and credible media reports shows the claim is largely inaccurate.

Claim 1: Wike skipped the Council of State meeting as a protest

Verdict: False

Under Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution, ministers are not members of the Council of State. The council includes the president, vice-president, former heads of state, governors, and key judicial officers.

There is no record that Wike was expected to attend or that his absence was a protest.
Official State House releases and reputable media reports made no mention of Wike’s attendance or absence.

The report appears to confuse the Council of State with the Federal Executive Council, where ministers are statutory members.

Claim 2: Tinubu ignored Wike’s preferred nominee and picked Amupitan instead.

Verdict: False

On 9 October, President Tinubu nominated Professor Joash Amupitan as INEC chairman, and the National Council of State approved the appointment.

While Sahara Reporters claimed that Wike pushed for Justice Abdullahi Liman, no evidence supports this. No credible media outlet or official record confirms Wike had a nominee.

Claim 3: Wike persuaded former presidents to boycott the meeting.

Verdict: False

Although some former leaders were absent, there is no indication that Wike influenced their decision.

The Council of State meeting proceeded with adequate quorum and unanimous approval of Amupitan’s nomination. No verified source reports any organised boycott.

Claim 4: Sowore’s report on Wike’s Florida properties caused his political decline

Verdict: False

Activist Omoyele Sowore petitioned Florida authorities over alleged undeclared properties linked to Wike’s family. Wike denied the allegations.

While the controversy drew media attention, there is no verified link between the petition and any official action against Wike.

Claim 5: Wike returned from UK treatment and sought to remove Governor Fubara

Verdict: Mixed

Wike’s rift with Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara is public knowledge, including impeachment attempts by the House of Assembly. However, claims that Wike returned from medical treatment abroad to plot Fubara’s removal are not independently verified.

Claim 6: Wike threatened Sowore after Tinubu’s corruption remark

Verdict: Unverified

Following Tinubu’s “no more corruption” comment during a trip to Brazil, Sowore criticised the president on social media. Wike publicly defended Tinubu and condemned Sowore’s statements.

However, there is no verifiable record of any direct threat made by Wike.

Claim 7: Tinubu ordered Wike to stop public briefings and asset amendment attempts

Verdict: Unverified

There is no credible report that Tinubu ordered Wike to halt public briefings.

Sahara Reporters’ claim that Wike tried to amend his asset declaration remains unconfirmed, as neither the Code of Conduct Bureau nor the EFCC has publicly acknowledged such a move

Claim 8: The INEC appointment was not on the Council’s agenda

Verdict: False

The agenda of the 9 October Council of State meeting included INEC nominations, national honours, and presidential pardons.

Reports from the State House confirm that the appointment of Professor Amupitan was expected and formally approved, not a surprise to members.

While elements of the Sahara Reporters article, such as the appointment of Joash Amupitan, are factual, most of its claims about Wike’s protest, influence, and alleged sabotage lack evidence.

The constitutional provisions and available records contradict the assertion that Wike boycotted the Council of State meeting or influenced others to do so.

The claims appear to rely on speculation and unnamed sources rather than verifiable documentation.

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Nyesom Wike, on Thursday described himself as a golden minister.

Wike said he was a governor when Rivers clocked 50 years and now he is a minister when the FCT will celebrate its 50th anniversary next year February.

The Minister disclosed this during the flagging off ceremony of the construction of Collector Road CN2 (Emmanuel I. Ogala Street) from Arterial N16 (Yemi Osinbajo way) to N20 (Wole Soyinka way) including road ILS 5 within Katampe District.
He noted that such a feat is an indication that God loves him, adding that nobody should be envious.

“Some of us have been very lucky. We are golden governors and now golden ministers. It’s not everybody that will be that lucky,” he said. “I was governor when Rivers State clocked 50 years, and now I am minister when the FCT will celebrate its 50th anniversary”

“Some of you were governors when your state was not up to 50 years, some were council chairmen when it did get up to that age but we became a governor when our state attained that golden jubilee and now we are minister when FCT will attain that golden jubilee. So you ask yourself, are we not so loved by God?

Wike added that the occasion was symbolic, describing it as a reminder that leadership opportunities were not determined by human effort alone.

“You may sit on my seat, but that does not mean you are specially loved the way I am loved by God,” the FCT Minister joked, drawing laughter from the crowd.

The minister also called on residents and contractors to give their best to ensure Abuja’s 50th anniversary is marked with significant infrastructure achievements.

“So please, do all you can so that when Abuja attains the golden age of 50 years, it will be remembered that we delivered on key projects,” he said.

Wike reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to completing major road and housing projects across the FCT before the anniversary celebration. The Collector Road CN2 project, expected to ease traffic flow and link key arterial routes in Katampe District, is one of several infrastructure developments the FCT Administration plans to complete ahead of the 2026 golden jubilee.