₦airaland Forum

ClearFlair:
An APC state

bookson:
Tyranny, Abuse of power, oppression, etc. These are the trademarks of this government

muyico:
Dictorship

Edo NYSC Punishes Corps Members With 90-Day Extension For Protesting Unpaid N77,000 Allowance In WhatsApp Group.

Edo State Coordinator of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Mrs. Frances Ben-Ushie, has extended the service year of over 30 corps members by 90 days without pay, SaharaReporters has learned.

The affected corps members, who completed their mandatory one-year service on March 17, 2025, were issued a "Notification of Extension of Service" instead of their NYSC Discharge Certificates.

Reports indicate that the extension serves as a penalty for their complaints about the non-payment of their N77,000 allowance, which they had shared in a WhatsApp group.

Sources revealed that an NYSC official initially created the WhatsApp group, where corps members voiced their grievances. The group, managed by an anonymous administrator under the title "Group Update on 77k Allowance," became a platform for discussions about the unpaid stipends.

"We were now discussing it and pouring out our grievances. After a few days, we were summoned individually to the Department of State Services (DSS) office and the NYSC Secretariat for interrogation afterwards. Nothing happened since then.

"Just last week, on the day of the passing-out parade, I was told I had an extension of service for exercising my fundamental human rights through a WhatsApp discussion and some posts titled ‘FG, pay us our 77k allawee (allowance) -33k is not substantial.’ That is all, and before we knew it, an extension of service awaits us," said one of the affected corps members.

One of the affected corps members was issued a query letter on September 6, 2024, for allegedly inciting fellow corps members to protest against the NYSC scheme and the Federal Government.
The letter demanded that the corps member explain why severe disciplinary action should not be taken against him.

Following this, the corps members were individually summoned for questioning at the Department of State Services (DSS) office and the NYSC Secretariat. However, no immediate action was taken until they were later notified of a service extension.

In subsequent extension letters, the NYSC cited their alleged involvement in online incitement to protest as the reason for the decision. The corps members have been directed to report to the Head of Community Development and Relief (CD&R) at the NYSC Secretariat to begin their extended service period.

The September 6, 2024 letter stated: "Despite repeated warnings and reminders from Management to utilize only approved channels of communication to air grievances or position on any matter, you have chosen to disregard this directive, by inciting other Corps members to engage in protest against the Scheme and the Federal Government of Nigeria, with respect to Corps members' allowance. This is unacceptable and will not be tolerated.

"Consequently, you are hereby requested to explain in writing, why severe disciplinary action should not be taken against you for your involvement online, in inciting other Corps members to protest, contrary to Schedule 1, Paragraph 11 (iii) on page 15 and Schedule 2, Paragraph 1 (m) on page 18 of the NYSC Bye-Laws.

"Your representation must reach the undersigned within 24 hours of receipt of this letter." However, the service extension letter, dated March 17, 2025, titled "Notification of Extension of Service," partly stated:

"I write to inform you that consequent upon your involvement in online incitement of other Corps members to protest against the Scheme and the Federal Government, the CDC has recommended the extension of your service by 90 days, in accordance with schedule 1, Article 11, (iii) on page 15 and Schedule 2, Article 1 (m) on page 18 of the NYSC Bye-Laws.

"Accordingly, your Certificate of National Service (CNS), will not be released until you have served the required number of days for which your service has been extended.”

"You are to report to the Head of CD&R at the NYSC Secretariat whenever you are ready to commence the extension of service," the letter partly read.

Dbemba:
Shettima will handle insecurity babablu bulabu.

Insecurity on the rise under your TINUBULATION. But Igbo people are your problem.

No wonder Daniel Bwala said...

LagosOrigin:
Ever since tinubu became president through the back door, it's been blood shed all around the country.

Janid:
The matter has been laid to rest, as such nothing will happen

There is palpable tension in Sokoto State as rumours of protest over the recent killings of 16 hunters in Uromi, Edo State of Nigeria, by local hunters in the state.

Our correspondent in the state who monitored the incident on Friday gathered that most business areas occupied by non-indigenes, especially the Igbos, are under lock .

Most shops in Igbo-dominated areas in the metropolis, such as Bello Way, Emir Yahya, Sahara, Aliyu Jodi, are under lock when our correspondent visited the place.

[One of the shop owners, who simply identified himself as Chinedu, said the fear of attack forced him to lock up his shop to avoid being a victim of attack.

“We heard of the rumour of a possible protest and attack by some youths in the state after Friday prayer, and we decided to take precautionary measures.

“One should not wait till when something will happen before we arrange ourselves, so we decided to close our shop,” he said.

Also speaking on the closure, one Igbo man selling vehicle tyres in Sahara said fear of looters made his people close their shops immediately they heard of a possible attack.

The man who spoke on condition of anonymity said his people decided to be proactive to avoid losing their goods to looters.

“The last time they protested during late Deborah issue, they used the opportunity to attack and loot our goods, so we decided to be proactive this time,” he added.

Meanwhile, the Nigerian Police Force, Sokoto State command, has reaffirmed its readiness to ensure the safety of lives and property of the people in the state.

The spokesman for the command, DSP Ahmed Rufai, while speaking with our correspondent, said the command has deployed its men to every part of the metropolis to maintain law and order in the state.

Our correspondent, however, gathered that there is no record of an attack as of the time of filing this report.

femisplash:
Which is evident in our net reserves gaining a significant leap from $3.7billion to $23.8 in less than two years.

The duo of Niger Delta chieftain, Government Ekpemupolo, alias Tompolo, and a Yoruba socio-cultural group, the Yoruba Aborigines Progressive Initiative, have declared their support for a second term bid by President Bola Tinubu.

In separate statements on Sunday, they based their endorsement of Tinubu on his administration’s strides in security, economy, infrastructure, and sectoral development.

Tompolo described Tinubu as “a leader who thrives under unusual circumstances, boldly making transformative decisions that have placed Nigeria on the path of sustainable development.”

YAPI’s chairman, Olushola John, specifically mentioned initiatives introduced by the administration such as student loan facilities, removing Customs duties on imported pharmaceuticals to improve affordability, and efforts to tackle rising food costs.

The Yoruba group also highlighted Tinubu’s key policy decisions including “the controversial removal of fuel subsidy, revitalisation of the nation’s refineries and the Supreme Court ruling on local government autonomy as major milestones in Nigeria’s progress.”

On his part, Ekpemupolo, who is a Chairman of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, vowed to join other progressive-minded leaders and people of the Niger Delta to promote the campaign for Tinubu’s continuity beyond 2027.

He commended the President’s support in the fight against crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism, which, he said, has increased the nation’s crude oil production from 600,000 barrels per day to about 1.8 million barrels per day.

“We will join other progressive-minded leaders and the good people of the Niger Delta to preach your gospel of continuity beyond 2027.

“Nothing can change our support. It’s your turn for another four years, and we are backing you solidly,” Ekpemupolo said.

Ekpemupolo further regarded key accomplishments of the Tinubu administration including “doubling aggregate revenue to over N9.1tn; reducing revenue spent on debt servicing from 97 per cent to 68 per cent; clearing $5bn in outstanding foreign exchange obligations; revitalising the oil and gas sector and creating the Compressed Natural Gas initiative.”

Others, he said, comprise “establishing the Student Loan Fund and disbursing N45.6bn to students; unlocking a $700bn mining fortune through the transformation of the solid minerals sector; spearheading monumental infrastructure projects such as the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and the Sokoto-Badagry Highway; signing into law the bill establishing the Nigeria Maritime University in Okerenkoko, Delta State.”

“Tinubu’s bold reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidies and a more unified forex management system, have reshaped Nigeria’s economic landscape,” he added.

Restating its support for Tinubu’s second term, the Yoruba aborigines spokesperson, Olatubosun Awonuga, said, “It is not only YAPI that has declared support for the president’s second-term bid; several other social-interest groups have also done the same.

“YAPI’s support is rooted in a desire to contribute to national progress; It is not out of place for us to express our support for the president.

“YAPI was founded out of a genuine commitment to the progress and development of our nation. We stand for justice, equity, and fairness.”

A socio-political group, Think Yoruba First (TYF), has rejected a proposed bill before the House of Representatives that seeks to grant indigene rights to Nigerians who have either resided in a particular place for 10 years or have been married to an indigenous person for the same period.

In a statement signed by its executives—Dr Bukola Adeniji, Mr Kayode Ọlọkọ, Dr Mark Faleye, Engr Kunle Faleti, and Mr Bolarinwa Oladimeji—TYF argued that the bill, sponsored by Hon. Kalu Okezie, would erode the cultural and historical foundations of indigenous peoples across Nigeria and could fuel ethnic tensions, conflicts, and long-term instability.

The group maintained that global best practices do not grant indigenous status based on residency or marriage, citing examples such as Native Americans in the United States, Aboriginals in Australia, and indigenous communities in Canada and New Zealand.

“No serious nation undermines the rights of its indigenous people by arbitrarily granting indigenous status to settlers. Around the world, indigenous identity is tied to ancestry, cultural heritage, and historical connection to the land—not just residency or marriage.

“History has shown that forceful alteration of indigenous identity is a precursor to ethnic violence and civil unrest, especially in multi-ethnic and multi-cultural nations.

“Consider these cases: Rwanda (1994 Genocide)—The manipulation of ethnic identity led to mass violence between the Hutu and Tutsi populations, with devastating consequences. South Sudan Conflict—decades of imposed ethnic integrations contributed to tensions that eventually led to South Sudan’s secession. Yugoslavia (Balkan Wars of the 1990s)—The forced blending of ethnic identities contributed to one of Europe’s most brutal conflicts in the 20th century.

“Nigeria itself has witnessed countless ethnic conflicts due to territorial and indigenous disputes. The crises in Jos, Southern Kaduna, Ife-Modakeke, and Aguleri-Umuleri, as well as the clashes between herders and farmers across the Middle Belt, all stem from disputes over land and identity.

Legalising the erasure of indigenous identity will exacerbate these conflicts, not resolve them,” the statement read.

TYF called on representatives from the South-West, South-South, North-Central, North-East, and North-West regions to oppose the bill in its entirety, emphasising that the protection of indigenous rights is a fundamental responsibility that must not be compromised.

The group urged the National Assembly to focus on ethnolinguistic restructuring, as advocated by Chief Obafemi Awolowo, stating that such an approach would promote peaceful coexistence, economic empowerment, and equitable development for all Nigerians without undermining the historical and cultural integrity of indigenous peoples.

“The indigenous identity of Nigeria’s ethnic nationalities is a sacred heritage that must not be sacrificed on the altar of political expediency. If this bill is allowed to pass, it will set a dangerous precedent that could lead to an irreversible distortion of Nigeria’s ethnic foundations, leading to deeper fragmentation and possible disintegration,” TYF warned.

“There comes a time in the life of a nation when an uncommon personality and courageous disposition form the basis for appreciating the essentials of problem-solving leadership.

Only those who have been there know exactly the grit required to lead Nigeria and Nigerians,” he said.

“Mr. President, let me assure you of my support and solidarity always. Even though the challenges facing us as a nation may be daunting, you have shown equal commitment to contend with the realities that stare us in the face.

“You have remained consistent in your ideals, principles, and democratic values till date,

“A result-driven and utility leader like you is well-suited for the present challenges, especially with the kind of innovations and policy thrust of your administration so far.

“You must not be tired or discouraged in providing the desired leadership to move the country forward. You have shown grit, gusto, and gravitas in your leadership emanations, and the courage you have exemplified speaks to your capacity to make uncommon decisions.”

General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB), former Military Head of State, has praised President Bola Tinubu on his 73rd birthday, describing him as the “Asiwaju of the Universe.”
In his heartfelt birthday message on Saturday, IBB eulogized Tinubu’s leadership, stating that he has done.

According to IBB: “There comes a time in the life of a nation when an uncommon personality and courageous disposition form the basis for appreciating the essentials of problem-solving leadership.

“With your rich background in the struggle for the emancipation of the ordinary Nigerian, coupled with your commitment to deepening democratic values in Nigeria, your history speaks for your persona.

“At a time like this, when your birthday strikes the right chord, it is gratifying to join millions of your admirers, associates, supporters, and fellow Nigerians to celebrate you with a pat on the back.

“You have come to lead Nigeria at a very trying time in our nation’s history, but your leadership intervention thus far has been very remarkable, bold, resilient, and encouraging. Only those who have been there know exactly the grit required to lead Nigeria and Nigerians,” he said.

The former Nigerian leader also commended Tinubu’s commitment to democratic values, pledging his support and solidarity with the president.

“Mr. President, let me assure you of my support and solidarity always. Even though the challenges facing us as a nation may be daunting, you have shown equal commitment to contend with the realities that stare us in the face. I can easily recollect when our paths crossed in the late eighties when the government I ran was trying to birth democracy.

“You have remained consistent in your ideals, principles, and democratic values till date, which is why Nigerians entrusted you with the mandate to lead them at this auspicious moment.

“A result-driven and utility leader like you is well-suited for the present challenges, especially with the kind of innovations and policy thrust of your administration so far.

“You must not be tired or discouraged in providing the desired leadership to move the country forward. You have shown grit, gusto, and gravitas in your leadership emanations, and the courage you have exemplified speaks to your capacity to make uncommon decisions.”

He prayed for Tinubu’s good health and wisdom to continue leading the country forward.

“Mr. President and the Asiwaju of the Universe, as I fondly call you, congratulations on your 73rd birthday celebrations.

“On behalf of Aisha, Muha, Aminu, and Halima, accept our collective felicitations on this special day. This is happening during the holy month of Ramadan, which is an indication of Allah’s abiding mercy and love for you.

“May Allah accept our supplications and grant you good health and more wisdom to help you chart the way forward for our dear country. Congratulations, Mr. President. Many happy returns,” he concluded.

However, the statement titled “My Father, My President, Happy Birthday,” reads:

“On my first day serving in the present government, I only knew H.E. Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu as my President. My Boss. The leader of our great nation, Nigeria.

“I had not had the privilege of being around him, except on two brief occasions before that day, despite a very active campaign effort on his behalf.

“I could not have known then that I would find in him my most profound mentor and nothing less than a father in the truest sense of the word.

“The President has been nicknamed the Last Man Standing.

“The last man standing does not merely describe a man who heroically campaigned across all nooks of our federation against institutional forces who conspired to deny our population its currency and fuel.

“The last man standing does not also merely describe Daddy as the perpetual winner, triumphant over perpetual candidates, who has won every election he has ever participated in dating back to his school days.

“For those who have the rare privilege of knowing him, he is the last man standing in your corner when all odds are stacked against you; rooting you on and guiding you to success.

“Daddy taught me that the cost and value of rigorous mentorship is the price of a glorious future and that it is only paid back once it is paid forward to the next generation.

“Daddy taught me that appropriate patience and strategic restraint will defeat hard power.

“Daddy taught me that consistent persuasion born out of sincere conviction will break the coercive grip of those who beguile and bully others into submission.

“There are too many invaluable morsels of wisdom and expertise gleaned in the presence of my father to share in this short recognition, but I am and will always be honoured to be associated with our nation’s greatest reformer.

“On this special day, I turn to my Father: Daddy, I thank you for making the selfless and deliberate choice to use your life’s candlelight to kindle the candle flames of those who will illuminate this dark world for generations to come.

“May God Almighty strengthen you with divine wisdom, peace, health, and all that is required of you to deliver the country of our dreams. Happy Birthday.”

The Federal Government has officially declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, as documented in the Federal Republic of Nigeria Official Gazette No. 47, dated March 18, 2025. In the proclamation titled State of Emergency (Rivers State)Proclamation, 2025.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu said he has invoked his constitutional powers under Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution to suspend the state’s elected leadership.

This includes the immediate removal of the Governor, Deputy Governor, and all members of the State House of Assembly. The appointment of Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (Rtd.) as the Administrator of Rivers State for the duration of the emergency was also documented in the gazette.

The gazette partly read: "Constitution Of The Federal Republic Of Nigeria 1999 As Amended State Of Emergency (RIVERS STATE) Proclamation, 2025.

"Whereas, there is a clear and present danger of an imminent breakdown of public order and public safety in Rivers State of Nigeria, which require extraordinary measures to avert such danger.

"Whereas, there is a clear and present danger of the looming crisis in Rivers State which, if left unchecked, could degenerate, leading to massive loss of lives and property in the State:

"Whereas, extraordinary measures are required to restore good governance, peace, security and order in Rivers State:

"NOW therefore, in exercise of the powers conferred upon me by section 305 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 and all other powers enabling me in that behalf, I, BOLA AHMED TINUBU, GCFR, President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigera, hereby make the following proclamation.

"Proclamation of a State of Emergency in Rivers State: As from the commencement of this Proclamation, a State of Emergency is hereby declared in Rivers State (in the Proclamation referred to as "the State".

"Suspension of the Offices of the Governor, his deputy and elected members of the State House of Assembly:

"As from the commencement of this Proclamation, the Offices of the Governor, Deputy Governor and State House of Assembly are here suspended.

"Appointment of Administrator: The State shall for the duration of the emergency, be administered by Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (Rtd), as Administrator, who shall operate on the basis of such Regulations that may, from time to time, be issued by me.

"This Proclamation may be cited as the State of Emergency (Rivers State) Proclamation, 2025."

The recently reinstated National Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party and ally of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, has called for party unity, stating that the internal crisis within the PDP has been resolved.

In an exclusive interview with The PUNCH on Monday, Anyanwu urged party members to focus on strengthening the PDP, and advised those currently involved in coalition negotiations for the 2027 elections to reconsider their action and join hands to rebuild and strengthen the PDP.

Anyanwu’s call comes in the wake of last week’s declaration of a coalition by the 2023 presidential candidates, including Atiku Abubakar of the PDP, Labour Party’s Peter Obi, and former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, aimed at challenging President Bola Tinubu in 2027.

Anyanwu, who claimed to be unaware of the coalition led by Atiku, encouraged PDP members to remain dedicated to the party.

According to him, the PDP remains a strong party at all levels despite the internal conflicts it has faced before and after the 2023 elections, which have caused instability and divisions within the party.

Acting National Chairman, Umar Damagum, has been criticised, especially after replacing Iyorchia Ayu.

Tensions heightened over the National Secretary position when the South-East nominated former National Youth Leader, Sunday Ude-Okoye, to replace Anyanwu, who had been nominated for the Imo governorship race in 2023.

The dispute reached the courts in December 2024, where the Appeal Court in Enugu ruled in favour of Ude-Okoye as PDP National Secretary. However, after months of party unrest, the Supreme Court overturned the Appeal Court decision on Friday, reinstating Anyanwu as the party’s Secretary.

In a unanimous ruling, the Supreme Court stated that issues relating to the leadership or membership of a political party are internal matters and should not be handled by the courts.

Following the ruling, the PDP’s National Working Committee issued a statement affirming that Ude-Okoye’s appointment had been overridden by the Supreme Court decision and that the party must address leadership issues internally.

Responding to the ruling, Anyanwu expressed relief, stating that the Supreme Court’s decision had ended the major crisis within the PDP.

“From the Supreme Court, which is the highest court, I am the National Secretary of the PDP. I hold no grudges against anyone. We have only a few months left, so all we need to do now is work together and reposition the party,” Anyanwu said.

He added, “Although I have been bruised and have experienced a lot of emotional stress, I endure it all. Now is the time for us to unite and reposition the PDP. There is also an urgent need for an important NWC meeting where we can face each other, speak the truth, and apologize where necessary.”

When asked about the NWC’s stance, Anyanwu stated, “The NWC hasn’t met yet; some members are unavailable. I have resumed, and we will have a meeting soon.”

Anyanwu also reaffirmed that the PDP is not involved in any coalition and urged those advocating for a coalition to remove President Bola Tinubu to instead join the PDP.

“The PDP is not part of any coalition; we have not been invited to any coalition meetings. In fact, we have not had any discussions about a coalition. The PDP remains strong at the local, ward, and state levels.

As far as I am concerned, those talking about a coalition should join the PDP. The crisis is over, so people should move into the PDP rather than PDP joining any coalition,” he stated.

When contacted, members of the National Executive Committee, who requested to remain anonymous, and PDP Deputy National Youth Leader, Timothy Osadolor, called for reconciliation within the NWC.

Both emphasised that the PDP’s leadership must now focus on unity and strengthening the party.
One NEC source said,

“For me, it was an unnecessary fight in the first place. However, now that the apex court has ruled, all well-meaning leaders of the party, such as the Governors, members of the BoT, and other stakeholders, should rally behind the NWC.

I know some people are still angry within the NWC, but we must let this go for the party to survive. If we continue to fight like this, the image of the party will suffer.”

Osadolor added, “I know that the PDP Governors Forum, the BoT, and the opposition in Nigeria have their opinions on what is right and wrong. Only God and extraterrestrial beings can fully determine that.

They are, to some extent, also involved in these matters. The Supreme Court has ruled, so it is time for all of us in the PDP, regardless of our position, to start mending our differences. I believe we are going to make decisions. The way forward is reconciliation, and healing is an essential part of that.”

Osadolor further emphasised, “Going forward, we want the Governors Forum, the BoT, the NWC, and especially Samuel Anyanwu to help resolve any grey areas. Now that the situation is clear, no one should fight it.

We can heal and recover. It should not be seen as a case of victor and vanquished. We are all one family, so let’s embrace the future and move on.”

Former Kano State Governor Malam Ibrahim Shekarau has cast doubt on the viability of the newly announced opposition coalition aimed at unseating President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 general elections.

His reaction comes after former Vice President Atiku Abubakar unveiled the coalition at a press conference in Abuja, declaring its mission to challenge the current administration.

In a statement released by his spokesperson, Dr. Sule Yau, Shekarau, who leads the League of Northern Democrats (LND), acknowledged the initiative as a “good development” but questioned its feasibility.

“This is just a gathering of certain individuals with political ambitions; none of them has officially consulted their party leadership,” Shekarau stated.

Speaking on the 2013 merger that birthed the All Progressives Congress (APC), Shekarau pointed out that the APC’s formation was a structured merger of four registered parties—the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP), the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC), and a faction of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA).

“The first political merger in Nigeria happened in 2013 when four registered parties merged to form the APC. It was an alliance of established opposition parties with elected governors, National Assembly members, and grassroots support,” he explained.

He also cited the March 20, 2025, National Assembly vote on the State of Emergency in Rivers State, arguing that the event exposed the opposition’s lack of influence.

“If the coalition leaders had any real influence, the APC government would not have secured the required votes for the law’s passage,” he said.
Shekarau recalled the failure of the 2019 opposition coalition, which was formally launched a year before the elections but did not have the backing of key PDP leaders.

“No amount of noise-making or informal alliances by individual politicians in the name of opposition will have any impact in elections unless the full leadership structure of opposition parties at all levels is involved,” he stated.

Despite his scepticism, Shekarau maintained that it was not too late for the opposition to reposition itself for 2027.

“With the right vision, mission, and focus, combined with a genuine sense of purpose, the opposition can change its narrative in 2025 and prepare for success in 2027,” he concluded.