₦airaland Forum

The Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) has called on President Bola Tinubu to take decisive action as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces to end the persistent killings and kidnappings in Benue, Plateau and other parts of the country.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, PFN President, Bishop Francis Wale Oke, described the situation in Benue State as a national tragedy, urging the federal government to rise to the occasion with urgent and effective intervention.

Bishop Oke stressed the need for the government to reclaim territories allegedly taken over by terrorists and restore them to their rightful indigenous owners. He noted that the continuous attacks on innocent civilians had led to widespread displacement and trauma, especially in Benue State.

“The PFN sympathizes with the Governor and people of Benue State over the relentless killings. We are deeply concerned about the alarming state of insecurity in the nation, with Benue being a critical flashpoint that has suffered for too long,” he said.

Faulting the current security architecture, the PFN President said a comprehensive overhaul is urgently needed.

“The current security system has failed us. Killings are taking place across the country, and the carnage has been relentless. What is happening in Benue is not a case of two parties fighting; it is an invasion by illegally armed bandits seeking to displace and dominate indigenous communities,” he stated.

Bishop Oke further condemned the repeated attacks on Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps, describing them as “heinous acts” against vulnerable citizens who should have been under state protection.

“This is not about Benue people killing themselves. These are external invaders committing atrocities. If any state deserves a declaration of emergency, it is Benue,” he added.

While acknowledging President Tinubu’s recent directive for special security forces to move into Benue, Bishop Oke said the action appeared belated and insufficient given the scale of the crisis.

“It is not enough to visit as a ‘Mourner-in-Chief.’ The President must act with the full weight of his office and protect the lives and land of the Benue people. Treating this as internal conflict is misleading and dangerous,” he warned.


He also extended the PFN’s concerns to Plateau, Taraba, and other regions suffering similar attacks, urging the Federal Government to restore law and order across affected areas.

“The Federal Government owes Nigerians a duty to restore peace and security. We believe President Tinubu has the capacity to handle the situation if he acts boldly and decisively,” Bishop Oke emphasised.

He concluded with a call for credible, impartial leadership in the security sector, saying: “We cannot continue to ask the cat to watch over the meat. The time has come to place the right people in charge of protecting Nigerians.”

The PFN reiterated its prayers for the people of Benue, Plateau, and the nation at large, while urging swift and genuine action from the presidency.

A humanitarian crisis is rapidly unfolding in Nasarawa State, particularly in Keana and Doma Local Government Areas, following the recent massacre of over 200 residents in Yelwata, a border town in neighbouring Benue State, by suspected armed herdsmen.

As fear of further attacks mounts, Tiv communities in Nasarawa State—especially in Keana, Doma, and parts of Lafia LGA—are being inundated by a mass influx of displaced persons fleeing from areas surrounding the violence-ravaged Yelwata.

The Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp located at Kadarko Primary School in Keana is currently overwhelmed, lacking the capacity to accommodate the growing number of victims arriving from border communities. Many of the displaced persons are women and children, with urgent needs for food, water, shelter, and medical attention.

Simon Tion, a resident who spoke to our correspondent in Lafia, said the situation has forced the desertion of over ten Tiv communities around Yelwata.

“A typical Tiv resident in Nasarawa State is now a target of attack by Fulani herders who have consistently attacked and killed countless Tiv people. These people are mostly farmers and are being driven off their lands,” Tion said.

He noted that while Governor Abdullahi Sule has made efforts to de-escalate the violence, attacks on Tiv communities have persisted, often unreported but occurring regularly across rural areas.

The IDP camp in Kadarko is currently facing severe challenges, including lack of food, clean drinking water, health services, and security. The school, which serves as a temporary shelter, lacks basic infrastructure like toilets, sleeping spaces, and perimeter fencing, making the camp vulnerable to further attacks and disease outbreaks.

Humanitarian agencies and government institutions such as the Nasarawa State Ministry of Women Affairs and Humanitarian Services, the Ministry for Special Duties on Humanitarian, Social Services and NGOs, and the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and IDPs have been urged to intervene urgently.

Tion and others called on well-meaning Nigerians and international aid organizations to come to the aid of the affected communities to prevent a full-blown humanitarian disaster.

“The cries from these displaced victims demand urgent attention. If nothing is done quickly, we risk even more humanitarian losses,” he said.

With thousands now displaced and aid resources stretched thin, observers warn that without immediate and coordinated intervention, the crisis in Nasarawa could spiral further out of control, compounding an already fragile security and humanitarian situation in Nigeria’s Middle Belt.

Amid worsening insecurity in Benue State, a former Senate President, David Mark, has raised the alarm over the continuous killings in the state, warning that residents may be left with no option but to defend themselves if the government fails in its constitutional duty to protect lives and property.

Mark disclosed this in a statement issued by his media aide, Paul Mumeh, on Sunday in Abuja, as he described the wave of attacks and killings across Benue communities as “senseless, tragic, and unacceptable.”

He cautioned that the deteriorating security situation has reached a tipping point, where citizens may soon resort to self-help to stay alive.

“This is the unfortunate reality the Benue people are confronted with.

“Government must rise to its responsibility, or risk leaving the people with no option but to defend themselves,” Mark said.

The former Senate President lamented the sustained loss of lives and destruction of property in the state, reiterating that the foremost duty of any government is to ensure the safety and welfare of its citizens.

“Any deviation from this mandate constitutes a gross disservice to the people,” he added.


Senator Mark called on the federal government to urgently fulfil its constitutional obligation to safeguard the lives and property of all Nigerians, stressing that citizens should never be left at the mercy of armed attackers.

He also charged the Benue State government, under Governor Hyacinth Alia, to scale up efforts toward restoring peace and security across troubled communities.

In his appeal for grassroots collaboration, Mark urged traditional rulers, community leaders, and other stakeholders to remain vigilant and work closely with security agencies to identify and apprehend the perpetrators of the violence.

He expressed deep solidarity with the people of Benue, encouraging them to stand united in the face of adversity.

Mark said,”This is a trying moment for our people.

“We must unite, mobilise, and speak with one voice against the invaders. We must refuse to bow to fear.”

While acknowledging the pain and provocation that victims have endured, the elder statesman urged residents to remain law-abiding and not take the law into their hands, but rather continue to exhibit the values of resilience, peace, and communal support.


“Despite the ongoing provocations, we must remain law-abiding, stay united, and uphold the enduring spirit of being our brothers’ keeper,” Mark concluded.

Veteran Nollywood actor Ganiu Nafiu, popularly known as Alapini, has expressed regret over supporting President Bola Tinubu during the 2023 presidential campaign.

He lamented that he and other Yoruba film actors who stood behind the Renewed Hope movement have been neglected ever since the election.

Alapini voiced his disappointment during an interview on ‘Behind the Fame – African A-List TV’, a YouTube channel, where he discussed his acting career, health challenges, family issues, and his involvement in the Tinubu campaign.

Speaking with evident frustration in Yoruba, Alapini said the hope they had during the campaign season has since turned into disappointment.

“We were campaigning with joy thinking our messiah has arrived, because Tinubu is someone we have loved for many years, and he has been helpful to actors,” he said.

Alapini revealed that he and many other veterans spent two months campaigning for Tinubu, expecting that their loyalty and visibility would be appreciated after the victory.

“That was why we came out to support him for two months.

“We spent two months campaigning for him.”

When asked what they received in return for their efforts, Alapini responded with a tone of resignation saying,”Maybe they are not in the right frame of mind to think about giving anything in return yet.”

He alleged that despite the visible participation of elderly actors in campaign events, neither Tinubu’s son Seyi Tinubu nor the All Progressives Congress acknowledged their efforts.

“Would Seyi claim that he did not see we the old folks during when we were out there campaigning?

“Was Seyi blind that he did not notice our presence, the senior actors?” he asked.

On the scale of their support, Alapini stated,“We were over a hundred. We were all walking around, both young and old.

“We even campaigned at areas where some individuals could not conduct campaigns.


“I was entering markets when I am not a mad man.

“They did not give us anything.

“People were cursing us in comment sections when we were campaigning,” he said, referencing the backlash they faced online.

He cited the example of fellow actor Olaiya Igwe, who infamously stripped naked at a beach to pray for Tinubu’s victory.

“My friend Olaiya Igwe, who stripped himself naked in the beach because of Tinubu.

“ The curses that were placed on him, up till now he hasn’t been free from them.”

Alapini also debunked rumours that Igwe was rewarded with a car following the incident.


“Who gave him? It was not them,” he said flatly when the show host brought up the speculation.

When asked whether he would consider campaigning again for Tinubu’s 2027 re-election, the actor was hesitant and visibly disillusioned.

He said,“I haven’t thought about it yet.

“It is not even about second term campaign.

“ Maybe our only form of support will be curses for anyone who chooses to vote for him.”

Alapini also criticised Seyi Tinubu for focusing philanthropic efforts in Northern Nigeria, suggesting that Yoruba communities have been sidelined.

“That Seyi is now running around the North paying their hospital bills.


“Aren’t there sick people here in Yorubaland too?

“How many hospitals has he visited here in Yorubaland to pay bills for sick people?” Alapini queried.

IDPs, soldiers, women, children among 200 killed in fresh herders’ attacks on Benue communities
Benue Killings

..we were tempted to move the corpses to the highway – Community leader

About 200 persons, including five security personnel and internally displaced persons, IDPs, as well as children and women, have been reportedly killed in a bloody attack by suspected terrorist herdsmen on Yelewata and Daudu communities in Guma Local Government Area, LGAs, of Benue state.

The attack, which came days after the people of the area alleged received information of the impending coordinated attacks by marauders, left many others with varying degrees of injuries.

The invaders were said to have stormed the Yelewata in their numbers from two fronts and, after overpowering the youths and the Police personnel who stood up against them, opened fire on defenceless IDPs who were taking refuge in market stalls and the community members.

It was gathered that several families were killed and burnt in their houses and in the Yelewata market stall, with many of the victims being children and toddlers who were slaughtered like animals.

While the attack on Yelewata was ongoing, another set of marauders, also in their number, besieged Daudu, in the same Guma LGA, but they reportedly met a strong resistance by the youths and security personnel, leading to the unfortunate death of some of the security personnel.

A community leader in Yelewata and former acting Chairman of the Benue State Universal Basic Education Board, SUBEB, Mr. Matthew Mnyan, who held back emotions as he spoke, said it was another dark day for the people of Yelewata, Daudu, Guma LGA and the entire state.

He said: “It started last night at about 11 pm when Fulani terrorists came from the Western part of the Yelewata and started shooting. So the police men and young people who were there tried to engage them. Suddenly, another group came from the Eastern part of the community, and they overran those trying to resist them.

“They killed our people, poured petrol on the stalls in the market and burnt them.
In those stalls, we had people who moved from places like Branch Udei and people displaced from nearby villages, who slept in them because of the proximity of the Police and soldiers there. And we learnt no soldier came out to defend the people.

“As of now, from the names they are putting together, and the number of families and people that were burnt and killed are running to over 200 now. They killed and burned people in the houses. They will pour petrol and burn the whole place where people were sleeping. We had a family of 15, some families of 12, men with their two wives, children and every one of them burnt. It is a terrible sight.

“I have asked them to search for the families and put the names together because some have been burned to ashes. Those who were rushed to the hospital were up to 46. So far, I learnt that about 20 have died and we are still putting the reports together.”

He lamented that it was a planned, unprovoked attack, adding that “for over one week we received reports from Nasarawa state that the terrorists planned to attack Yelewata, Ukoho, Ortese, Yogbo and Daudu. So they are moving to attack these places simultaneously.

“Fortunately, that same day, the ones at Daudu were dislodged, and we learnt five soldiers and police personnel were killed sadly. From the information I received, I think one of them was of the rank of a Captain.

“We learnt more than 300 terrorists were camped close to Daudu.

“It is heartbreaking, everybody is aware that the people want to take over Benue state. There are no two ways about it. They only want to grab the land.

“If you go to the east side of Yelewata, Fulanis have taken over the land and given it to some of their people to be farming. And they do not want anybody to go there. So this is a planned issue that is being executed. It was a coordinated and well-organised attack, which is why some came from the eastern part and some from the western part to execute the attack to make sure they bring the place down.

“I cannot understand why innocent women, children and toddlers were murdered in cold blood. Children had their necks slitted and were killed like animals. I cannot understand it.

“We had wanted to move all the corpses to the road, but I recalled that there was a time we did that and three persons were killed by security personnel.”

Also, the President of the Association of United Farmers Benue Valley, AUFBV, Chief Dennis Gbongbon who also lamented the carnage, blamed it on those he called “Lakurawa bandits.”

Gbongbon said the association received the report of “the very disturbing security threat to Tiv farmers in Yelewata community of Guma LGA, as suspected Lakurawa bandits and herders killed over 62 Internally Displaced Persons, IDPs, and farmers and houses were burnt with families beyond imagination.

“The death toll shall rise as the search and rescue mission is on. Many were burned in stores. I am right here on the ground. 85 per cent of the victims are IDPs who ran from Antsa, Dooka, Kadarko, and Giza areas and took refuge in various stores in Yelewata market and among residents. Many have been hospitalised.”

According to him “the IDPs in Yelewata are still farmers. They only ran to take refuge there. While it is important to separate them, it would help us understand the deteriorating situation farmers are confronted with. Even having run from sacked homes to IDPs camp, terror still followed them unabated.”

Reacting, the Special Adviser to the Benue State Governor on Internal Security, Chief Joseph Har, who confirmed development, said, “I can not give an exact account of it because I am not there physically, but I am aware that this ugly thing happened yesterday in Yelwata and at the back of Daudu. They were two different attacks. I cannot give the exact numbers because I do not have the details.”

Meanwhile, a military source who preferred anonymity confirmed that two military personnel lost their lives in the attack.

He said, “We lost two military personnel in that attack, but I cannot tell you more than that.”

Reacting, the Benue State Police Command in a statement by its Public Relations Officer, Deputy Superintendent, DSP Udeme Edet confirmed the development but failed to state the casualty figure.

Part of the statement read “according to our information, it happened in the early hours of today, where suspected bandits invaded Yelwata town.

“The Police and Tactical Teams posted to the town and reinforcement responded swiftly to the attack and engaged the attackers in a fierce exchange, and some of the attackers were killed in the process.

“But it is with great sadness that we report that some individuals lost their lives and others sustained injuries.

“The Police, however, have not relented and are still in pursuit of the attackers and will continue to keep everyone safe.”

Fourteen months after the International Conference Centre (ICC) in Abuja was shut down for renovation, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, alongside the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, inaugurated the rehabilitated facility on Tuesday, with pomp and circumstance as the minister renamed the national asset after the president.

Tinubu hailed the rehabilitation of the “very dirty, disorganised and uninhabitable” centre as a part of Nigeria’s larger vision to become “a hub for regional diplomacy, continental trade discussions, global partnerships, and many more thoughtful, well-outlined goals that reflect our Nigerian First philosophy.”

However, there are concerns over the cost of renovating the edifice, which gulped the sum of N39 billion. Bar inflationary effects over time, the sum is 162 times more than N240 million used to build the centre in 1991 by the General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (rtd) regime.

What N39 billion can do

Amidst disturbing decay in health and education infrastructure across the country, Weekend Trust breaks down the renovation cost, estimating the number of classrooms and primary healthcare centres the money – totalling capital expenditures of 12 federal universities or nine federal medical centres in the approved 2025 budget – could have been used to construct or renovate.

Many communities in Nigeria, especially in underserved rural areas, parade dilapidated schools with blown roofs and cracked walls. Classrooms are without furniture, as pupils learn in crudely non-conducive environments, sitting under the trees or on bare floor. In communities where there are no nearby schools, children trek long distances to receive formal education in neighbouring villages where schools are located or shun learning outrightly.

Every fiscal year, the government attempts to respond to these precarious situations by committing certain amounts to renovating decrepit classrooms or building new ones. In the approved 2025 budget of the Federal Ministry of Education, rehabilitation of public schools was estimated at N40.5 billion; N5.063 billion was set aside for the purchase of teaching/learning aid equipment, and N100 million was budgeted for the construction/provision of libraries.

Weekend Trust reports that only N1,972,700,201, representing 5 per cent of the N39 billionn, was earmarked for the capital spending of the National Library of Nigeria in the current budget. Also, the sum is a little higher than the capital expenditures of 12 federal universities.

The institutions include the University of Benin, N3,608,643,195; University of Jos, N4,156,046,096; University of Calabar, N4,598,894,949; University of Ilorin, N2,092,215,470; University of Ibadan, N2,172,673,766; Federal University of Technology, Akure, N1,039,371,080; and Federal University of Technology, Minna, N2,605,817,308. Others are the University of Lagos, N2,169,395,270; the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, N2,202,871,372; the University of Port Harcourt, N1,763,861,874; Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, N5,270,991,010; and Bayero University, Kano, N7,117,712,322.

Statistics from local and global health bodies have linked thousands of deaths, including child and maternal mortalities, in Nigeria to poorly equipped hospitals, particularly primary healthcare centres (PHCs) which are meant to provide essential healthcare services to the people at the grassroots. A 2022 report on the state of primary healthcare in Nigeria, revealed that 80 per cent of the 30,000 PHC facilities across the country fell below the standard. In 2016 alone, Nigeria recorded 376,039 deaths as a result of inadequate access to quality healthcare delivery, according to the Lancet Global Health Commission Report.

The 2025 budget estimates renovation and provision of equipment in a PHC at N75m-N150m. Construction and upgrading of a PHC in Jagindi Tasha, Kaduna State, is pegged at N90m, while building a primary healthcare centre in Igbemo-Ekiti, Ekiti State, will consume N125m. This means that even at higher estimates (of N150m and N125m), N39bn would renovate and equip 260 PHCs or build 312 new ones.

It costs N25m to construct a community clinic that can serve locals at Mwarawo Community in Adamawa State, according to the budget. And with N39bn, over 1,500 units can spring up in hard-to-reach communities that lack access to basic healthcare services, according to checks by Weekend Trust.

A further analysis shows that the cost of renovating the ICC is more than the combined capital expenditures approved for nine federal medical centres (FMC) in the 2025 budget. The hospitals are; FMC, Umuahia, Abia State, N9,635,655,307; FMC, Owo, Ondo State, N5,902,309,349; FMC, Markurdi, Benue State, N3,198,886,153; FMC, Asaba, Delta State, N4,600,840,888; FMC, Taraba State, N5,475,224,653; FMC, Nguru, Yobe State, N575,681,006; FMC, Bayelsa State, N2,141,500,528; FMC, Ebute Metta, Lagos, N3,910,909,779; and FMC, Jigawa State, N2,551,632,864.

Also, N1,314,944,149 earmarked for the National Health Insurance Scheme in the current budget represents a 3.3 per cent of the N39bn expended on the conference centre rehabilitation, while the entire capital expenditure (N47,145,697,420) of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency—with the mandate to strengthen primary healthcare systems at the grassroots level and ensure access to essential health services in urban and rural areas—is 18 per cent more than the renovation cost.

Wike defends project

Meanwhile, the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, has downplayed those criticising the amount spent on the project, saying it was meant to build a centre of international standard that it was supposed to be.

He said virtually everything at the centre, apart from its blocks, were changed during the renovation.

Wike, who was reacting to the critics of the project during the commissioning of the Apo- Wasa road on Friday, said, ‘’People are criticising the International Conference Center. You know, there are people naturally, they don’t have good taste. The only thing in that International Conference Center that was not changed is the block work. Everything in that Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Center, was changed.

‘‘If you love this country, you cannot criticise. It’s not about I wear only one shoe, telling people lies. It’s a lie. It’s not about, oh, I carry my bag. No. Nigeria, as a giant of Africa, must not only show that they are a giant, people must see what makes you the giant of Africa. Nobody that loves this country will criticise that International Conference Center.

‘‘There’s one television, one media house, I don’t normally watch them but somehow, by spiritual directive, I had to turn on. I saw somebody, I don’t know his name, normally I don’t like to know people’s names, who don’t have anything to offer. He said, oh, they did not name the International Conference Center after somebody who built it. Nnamdi Azikiwe Airport was not built by Nnamdi Azikiwe. Moshood Abiola Stadium was not built by Moshood Abiola.

‘‘Another one is that, oh, it was built with N240 million. Which year? 1991. What was the exchange rate in 1991 and compare the exchange rate? People will just sit down for the sake of criticising. Look at the exchange rate in 1991 and 2025, and then compare.

‘‘Oh, they built it with so so billion. So what? We have taste. We want the best for the country and the president has given the best for the country. If you did not do well to defend your boss when you had opportunity, it’s not our fault. You were there, they were hitting your boss left, right and center and you couldn’t defend your boss. I am here, I will defend my boss, and I have the capacity to defend my boss. If you want to die, I have a lot of land to give you where they will bury you. I am not afraid of that. After all, population is too high. So if you want to die, you die because you choose to die.

‘‘Why would you not commend somebody who has done well? You are not happy that they named it after Mr. President, go and kill yourself. I have done it and I have no regrets at all.

The minister added ‘’Somebody said it is a misplaced priority; you that cannot win an election. He is telling us misplaced priorities. If you have priorities, Nigerians would have voted for you. It is not about social media. You say you will run an election; wait, 2027 is here. We don’t need to kill ourselves, when jungle matures, we will all know’.


Birth of ICC

The construction of the ICC was conceived to host the 27th summit of the Organisation of African Unity (now African Union) in 1991, in the wake of political turmoil in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, the union’s headquarters where the summit is usually held. In his recently published memoir titled, ‘Journey in Service,’ General Babangida revealed that as the date of the summit drew nearer, Addis Ababa had become “strategically compromised” due to the raging civil war with rebels opposed to the communist regime of Mengistu Haile Mariam. Following predictions that the city would have been overrun or dangerously besieged by the summit date, it was advised that the event be postponed, moved to a different venue, or cancelled pending the return of normalcy to Addis Ababa.

“We decided to embark on the building of what is today the International Conference Centre (ICC). The contractors agreed to an oil swap arrangement under which we would barter barrels of oil in advance as part payment for the financing of the project. We also needed to build a new dual carriage highway linking the airport to the city centre. In addition, residential accommodation for VIP guests alongside a fleet of limousines was written into the budget,” Babangida wrote.

Built at a cost of N240 million, the facility had aged over the years, until it was shut down by the FCT minister, Wike, in April 2024 for rehabilitation.

“It’s unfortunate, like I’ve always said; after that period, the whole place died. This was given to one senator, who was making money out of it but killing the edifice. We, of course, had to take a drastic decision… I’m happy with what is going on. Julius Berger had promised us that they were going to complete it. This is at the cost of N39 billion. We are spending N39bn,” Wike had said during an inspection of the rehabilitation work at the centre in March 2025.

Renaming of ICC after Tinubu

The renaming of ICC as Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre by Wike has drawn the ire of opposition parties, civil society organisations and activists, many of whom argued that the former military president, Ibrahim Babangida, whose administration built the edifice, did not name it after himself. They also frowned at the trend of renaming public institutions after Tinubu.

The National Secretary of the Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP), Chief Peter Ameh, in a statement on Wednesday, said, “The brazen renaming of public institutions after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu exposes a disturbing focus on self-glorification over nation-building.”

He described the N39bn renovation of the ICC as a “staggering misallocation of resources”, while critical sectors like education and healthcare in the FCT crumbled, noting that “General Babangida, despite overseeing its construction from the ground up, never sought to immortalise his name on this landmark.”

“In stark contrast, President Tinubu, whose administration merely renovated the ICC at an outrageous cost of N39 billion, has renamed it; the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre. This pattern extends to other public assets, including the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Technology Innovation Complex, Bola Ahmed Tinubu Barracks, and Bola Ahmed Tinubu Federal Polytechnic. Such actions reek of personal branding and a desperate bid to rewrite history through paint and concrete, rather than through transformative leadership.

“The N39bn squandered on this unnecessary facelift could have funded a new, state-of-the-art national monument or addressed the dire crises plaguing the FCT. Primary school children have been out of school for three months due to underfunding and neglect.

“Area councils and primary healthcare centres have been paralysed by months-long strikes, leaving communities without essential services. These are the real emergencies demanding urgent attention, yet the administration prioritises vanity projects over the welfare of Nigerians,” he said.

Ameh further lamented that while citizens grapple with soaring inflation, insecurity, failing healthcare, and a collapsing education system, the Tinubu administration “appears more committed to immortalising his name than solving these pressing challenges”.

“This is not leadership but a shameful betrayal of public trust. For context, N39bn is not just a renovation budget; it is a staggering leap from the N240m used to build the ICC from scratch. This gross mismanagement of resources demands accountability,” he added.

This paper had reported in February 2025, how five public institutions, including those Ameh cited, were named after President Tinubu within 11 months, beginning with the renaming of the Abubakar Imam International Airport in Minna as Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport by the Niger State Government in March, 2024. The airport had only been named after Abubakar Imam nine months earlier, in June 2023, in recognition of his contributions to northern Nigeria’s literary, political and educational landscape.

In May 2024, the National Assembly Library and Resource Centre was inaugurated and named the Bola Tinubu Building. There is also a bill for the establishment of Bola Ahmed Tinubu Federal University of Nigerian Languages in Aba, Abia State, before the House of Representatives.

“In less than a year [as of February 2025], four public institutions have been named after President Bola Tinubu. This abuse of norms is rooted in the sycophantic culture that has grown in recent times. The president should put a stop to this, as he is signalling a culture that is highly unacceptable,” Seun Onigbinde, the co-founder of BudgIT, a civil society organisation promoting transparency and accountability in Nigeria, had posted on X (formerly Twitter).


CSOs raise conerns over renovation cost

The Executive Director of the Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED), Dr. Ibrahim Zikirullahi, said spending N39bn on the renovation of a building originally constructed at the cost of N240m was indicative of the character of the calibre of people managing the affairs of Nigeria.

“The APC-led federal government since the era of Buhari’s administration has demonstrated unmatched prodigal tendencies in the management of public funds, and Tinubu’s government is taking it a step further,” Zikirullahi said.

He said that incurring such a huge expenditure on the renovation of just one structure, at a time when schools and hospitals across the FCT are on strike due to the failure of the FCT Administration to meet up with the payment of workers’ salaries and other statutory entitlements, underscored the degree of insensitivity of the current administration to the plight of ordinary Nigerians.

Also, the Executive Director of the Grassroots Centre for Rights and Civic Orientation (GCRCO), Mr Armsfree Ajanaku, said the huge renovation cost of the conference centre stands transparency and accountability on their heads.

“What exact level of renovation requires such a huge sum? What were the processes for the procurement and execution of the renovation? What companies engaged in bidding for the project and what were the criteria for selection?

“The FCTA needs to ensure proactive disclosure on these issues. Huge expenditure to renovate a conference centre comes across as a misplaced priority in the same FCT where teachers have been on strike, leaving children in public primary schools stranded at home for three months.

“We believe public funds should be expended in a judicious, transparent and efficient manner to directly touch the lives of citizens, especially in the face of unemployment and deepening poverty in the country,” Ajanaku said.

Centre must generate revenue, says economist

An economist at the Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ogun State, Professor Sheriffdeen Tella, said now that the renovation is over, the focus should be on ensuring that the centre generates income to cover the cost and subsequent maintenance.

“What is important now is that it should be able to generate income to meet the expenses spent. The government has already said that whoever is using it will have to pay. That is our main concern now because they have already spent the money. We don’t know the condition it was in before the renovation, even though we know contracts in Nigeria are always overinflated. To that extent, one cannot say whether the amount is right or wrong,” he stated.

Country Director of Action Aid Nigeria (AAN), Mr Andrew Mamedu, maintained that the decision to spend N39bn on renovating ICC ought to have been assessed through the lens of value for money, public accountability, and return on investment, adding that the project raised questions about cost efficiency and transparency.

“While we recognise that infrastructure like the ICC is intended to generate income through rentals and hosting of events, the scale of this expenditure, especially amidst widespread hardship and competing priorities demands greater scrutiny.

“At a time when millions of Nigerians are battling poverty, hunger, and insecurity, public spending must be subjected to rigorous cost-benefit analysis to ensure it directly contributes to the well-being of citizens.

“Infrastructure investments should never be done in isolation from the broader development context. The issue here is not whether the ICC should be maintained, it should, but how much is being spent, how transparently it’s being procured, and how such spending translates into tangible returns for the public,” he said.

Mamedu said accountability and not optics, must guide public spending.

“We urge the federal government to ensure full disclosure of the project’s scope, procurement process, and expected economic gains. Citizens deserve to know how their resources are being used and how those decisions improve their lives,” he added.

Also, a professor of Economics at the University of Lagos, Olufemi Saibu, argued that the renovation of ICC was a good investment in terms of its envisaged economic impact.

“The president has already said people would pay for using it and the minister also said the money would be recovered in 10 years. If the materials used in renovating and the engineers who worked on it were sourced locally, that is a good thing. We can be sure there was no case of capital flight.

“The money spent must have been captured in the budget irrespective of whether it is billions of naira. However, it becomes an issue if it is found that the money was misappropriated. Let us hope that the centre would be able to generate income and benefit Nigerians,” he stated.

Former Senate President, Bukola Saraki, has responded to President Bola Tinubu’s comment about the state of disarray in Nigeria’s opposition parties, acknowledging the internal turmoil within his party, the Peoples Democratic Party.

He, however, said the party will sort itself out.

During his Democracy Day address on Thursday, Tinubu took a bold swipe at opposition parties, expressing amusement at their struggles.

“It is a joy to see the opposition in disarray.

“For me, I will not say, try your best to put your house in order. I will not help you to do so, either,” the President said.

Tinubu also dismissed claims that his government is scheming to establish a one-party system through orchestrated defections to the ruling All Progressives Congress.

In a response that came shortly after the ceremony held at the National Assembly, Saraki spoke to journalists and conceded that the PDP is indeed facing internal challenges.

He called on his party and other opposition groups to focus on self-correction and reorganisation, saying they must “get their houses in order.”

Saraki said, “I think we must take him at his words. I mean, he spoke well, saying that he’s not for a one-party state. So we must take him at his word, and he supports a multi-party. So we are all on the same page.

“That’s why we are going around and bringing everybody to come around. So those who say they are under pressure, there is no pressure anymore. So, we’re all for multi-party, and everybody should get their house in order, as he said, he’s not going to help us, so we are going to sort our own house again.”

Some residents of Ikorodu, a suburb of Lagos State, have appealed to the state government to restrict the Oro festival to nighttime hours, citing disruptions to free movement and commercial activities during the day.

The residents voiced their concerns in interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria on Thursday, lamenting that the cultural practice infringes on the rights of citizens—particularly women—and negatively affects economic livelihoods.

The Oro festival is a traditional Yoruba celebration observed only by male descendants who are native to the town. During the festival, tradition forbids women and non-natives from being outdoors or witnessing the Oro, with death cited as the penalty for any violation.

Mrs. Bukunmi Taiwo, a septuagenarian who has lived in Ikorodu for over 40 years, called for dialogue and community engagement to ensure that cultural observances benefit all residents without creating undue hardship.

“The world is changing, and our beliefs and practices must adjust accordingly for social harmony,” she said.

“Many families rely on daily earnings from petty trade. The imposition of curfews during Oro festivals places a heavy burden on already struggling households. I appeal to the Oro adherents to restrict their activities to midnight so residents can move freely and go about their livelihoods.”


Obinna Nweze, a trader at Ladega Market, expressed frustration over the frequent closure of markets in the town.

“This year alone, the market has been shut more than five times—twice for the Oro festival, others for the Kabiyesi celebration, the Iya Oloja program, or mourning someone’s death.

“You dare not open your shop because miscreants may harass or loot it. It’s emotionally and economically draining. We are just trying to survive.”

Legal practitioner Mr. Mustafa Mohammed emphasised the supremacy of the Nigerian Constitution, urging government action.

“Every citizen is entitled to fundamental rights, including freedom of movement. It is unacceptable that women and girls still face restrictions due to cultural practices. The government must intervene to ensure that no tradition overrides the rights and freedoms guaranteed by law.”

Mrs. Cecilia Oluwadarasinmi, a gender advocate, also voiced concern, noting that over 85% of women in Nigeria are active in the informal economy.

Although today coincides with June 12, a public holiday, the core issue is the curfew imposed by the Oro festival.


Just last month, the Magbo Oro festival fell on Children’s Day, denying many children—especially girls—the chance to celebrate.

While cultural preservation is important, it must not come at the expense of public welfare or gender equality.”

She stressed the importance of inclusive cultural practices to foster cohesion, economic empowerment, and sustainable development while reducing gender-based discrimination.

NAN reports that the Oro festival is held twice annually in Ikorodu Town—typically in May and June—with neighbouring communities like Igbogbo, Imota, and Agbowa holding theirs in separate months.

Despite its controversial nature, the Oro festival remains a significant tradition in Yoruba culture. Its adherents say it serves as a spiritual exercise to maintain peace, bring blessings, and cleanse the community of evil.

June 12 Protests: Take-It-Back Movement Rallies In Lagos, Akure, Others Against Bad Governance

As Nigerians mark Democracy Day, members of the Take-It-Back (TIB) Movement in Lagos, Oyo, Ondo and some other states took to the streets on Thursday to protest what they described as worsening economic hardship, insecurity, and anti-people policies under the administration of President Bola Tinubu.Nigerian cultural tours

In Lagos, protesters gathered under the Ikeja Bridge, chanting solidarity songs and holding placards to demand accountability and improved living conditions.

Simultaneously, members of the movement in Akure, Ondo State, gathered at Cathedral Junction, urging citizens to become more socially conscious and to assert their democratic rights.

In Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State, protesters gathered at Mokola.

The protest was organised to sensitise the public about the importance of civic participation, including the right to protest and influence democratic decision-making processes.

June 12, which commemorates Nigeria’s return to civilian rule and honours the annulled 1993 presidential election, has increasingly become a day for civic action.Nigerian cultural tours

Many Nigerians have used the occasion to draw attention to the failures of successive governments to address widespread poverty, corruption, and insecurity.

This year’s protests reflect growing discontent over the economic challenges facing the country, including rising inflation, the removal of fuel subsidies, and high unemployment rates.

The TIB Movement has been a vocal critic of the current administration and has repeatedly called for reforms that prioritise the welfare of ordinary Nigerians.Nigerian cultural tours

Police presence was noticeable at the protest sites, but there were no reports of arrests as of the time of filing this report.

Meanwhile, the Lagos State Police Command has assured protesters and residents that their safety remains a top priority as demonstrators gathered under the Ikeja Bridge to mark Nigeria’s Democracy Day.

In a statement released on Thursday, the Command’s spokesperson, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, said there was no cause for alarm, emphasising that officers were fully on the ground to maintain law and order during the peaceful protest.Nigerian cultural tours

He said, "Democracy Day celebrants and protesters at Ikeja Underbridge…”

"Adequate security on ground for celebrants and protesters alike. No cause for alarm. Your safety and security remains our priority," Hundeyin added.

Heads of Mission from the United States, United Kingdom, Finland, Norway, and Canada have jointly called on the Federal Government to reform the 2015 Cybercrimes Act, warning that its misuse threatens freedom of expression and hampers the country’s digital and economic potential.

In a joint statement on Thursday to mark Nigeria’s Democracy Day, the diplomats commended the country’s 26 years of democratic governance.

They reiterated the importance of free expression as a cornerstone of any democracy.

The statement was signed by Richard Mills, Jr. (U.S. Embassy), Richard Montgomery (British High Commission), Sanna Selin (Embassy of Finland), Svein Baera (Embassy of Norway), and Pasquale Salvaggio (Canadian High Commission).

We Are Due And Ready For Ijebu State – Iyalode Tobalase Obinrin Group0:01 / 1:01


We Are Due And Ready For Ijebu State – Iyalode Tobalase Obinrin Group0:00 / 0:00

Citing remarks by President Bola Tinubu from the 2024 Democracy Day celebrations, they emphasised that “diverse perspectives and viewpoints” are essential for democratic progress.

The statement raised concerns about what it described as the broad and vague provisions in the Cybercrimes Act, particularly after amendments were made in 2024.

It referenced an opinion by Nigeria’s National Human Rights Commission, which warned of the law’s potential for abuse in the arrest and prosecution of journalists, activists, and ordinary citizens for expressing dissent online.


The envoys noted that while the Act aims to combat legitimate threats such as cyber fraud, an issue estimated to cost Nigeria $500m annually, according to the Nigeria Communications Commission, it is increasingly being used to silence criticism.

They cited the case of activist and author Dele Farotimi, who faced multiple cybercrime charges after publishing allegations of judicial corruption.

Although the charges were later dropped, the diplomats said the incident underscores how the law can be weaponised to stifle free speech.

The misuse of the Cybercrimes Act, they argued, not only erodes democratic accountability but also risks damaging Nigeria’s reputation among investors and entrepreneurs.

“Misuse of the Cybercrimes Act undermines democratic advancement and civic participation. It also jeopardises the confidence of investors and risks deterring the innovation needed for economic growth,” they noted.

Ambiguous legal language around terms such as “false information,” “cyberstalking,” and “harassment” creates uncertainty that could deter digital investment and innovation.


They said, “The implications extend beyond free expression. Nigeria’s economic future depends on its ability to innovate and attract investment in the digital age. However, the Cybercrimes Act’s misapplication, even in a small number of cases, risks detracting from the innovators and entrepreneurs the government wants to invest in Nigeria.


“The Cybercrimes Act also contributes to uncertainty abroad about Nigeria’s legal landscape. Its vague provisions make it difficult for businesses and investors to assess legal risks, hindering investment in industries that rely on digital content. Reform is needed to protect both citizens’ rights and Nigeria’s future.”

The statement welcomed the commitment of the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, to review the Act in collaboration with lawmakers and stakeholders.

The diplomats urged the National Assembly to move swiftly, make the review process transparent, and involve public consultation.

“The undersigned Heads of Mission in Nigeria encourage Nigerian lawmakers to consider reform of the Cybercrimes Act to narrow the definitions of key terms such as “false information,” cyberstalking,” insult,” hatred,” and “harassment,” and ensure those definitions cannot be used erroneously to silence critics and censor expression.

“As friends of Nigeria who share the country’s strong commitment to democratic values, we want Nigeria to realise its potential as a democratic digital powerhouse. We would therefore welcome the Nigerian government amending the Act to strike a balance between protecting citizens while preserving human rights, including free expression.

“This will be a difficult balance to strike but it is vital for delivering what Nigeria wants: a stable and open democracy, and economic growth underpinned by investment,” the diplomats advised.

Highlighting international support for Nigeria’s digital governance, the statement pointed to technical assistance being provided through the Council of Europe’s Global Action on Cybercrime project.


However, the diplomats expressed concern over repeated delays in the review process and urged lawmakers to prioritise the reform.

They lamented, “However, the deadline for the Act’s review has consistently been delayed, and we urge Nigerian lawmakers to make this review a priority, and ensure it is open to public consultation and debate.”

“Free expression is a precious commodity that relies on all of us to respect it. It is a fundamental tenet of Nigeria’s constitution.

“Nigerians, and any citizens of countries around the world, should be able to hold and express their views, even if those opinions are unpopular,” the joint statement read.

The party made this call in a statement on Tuesday as it prepares for its National convention in August in Kano.

It said that the event will serve as a pivotal moment to elect new national officers, strengthen internal democracy, and reposition the PDP as a formidable force to rescue Nigeria from the grip of the failed All Progressives Congress, APC, ahead of the 2027 general elections.


The statement added that the National Convention will prioritize merit, transparency, and inclusivity in electing leaders capable of confronting the APC’s misrule.

“Nigerians must therefore rise to resist the APC’s sinister plot to transform Nigeria into a one-party totalitarian state.

“The Tinubu-led administration’s economic policies have inflicted unprecedented hardship, with rising poverty, insecurity, and wanton killings plaguing the nation.

“The APC’s desperate attempts to stifle opposition voices through sponsorship of crisis within political parties, threats, intimidation, and attacks on democratic institutions reveal their fear of imminent defeat in 2027.

“The PDP as a party that stands for the rule of law, and the supremacy of the will of the people is gearing up to restore democratic principles in 2027,” it said.

It charged Nigerians reject the APC’s anti-people policies and join the PDP in building a united front to reclaim Nigeria’s future.


According to the statement, the August 2025 National Convention will lay the foundation for a reinvigorated PDP, ready to lead the charge for a Nigeria where every citizen thrives.

It, therefore, urged party members, other critical stakeholders, and patriotic Nigerians to rally behind the PDP as it prepares to elect leaders who will champion the aspirations of the Nigerian people.

“Together, we will defeat the APC’s authoritarian agenda and restore Nigeria to the path of progress, security, and economic stability,” it added.

James39:
Oh my goodness...

Photo: Mokwa Railway Line, Niger State, after Mokwa flood.

Credit: Wole Mosadomi

Electricity distribution companies recorded a shortfall of over N202bn in their revenue collections for the first quarter of 2025, despite a rise in electricity billing across the country, an analysis of official industry data by The PUNCH has shown.

This was as data revealed that electricity billing by distribution companies increased by 106.68 per cent or N393.26bn year-on-year from the same period in 2024.

According to the latest report published by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission, the 12 power distribution companies, also known as Discos, billed customers a total of N761.91bn between January and March 2025.

However, only N559.3bn was collected during the period, translating to a revenue collection efficiency of 73.4 per cent and a shortfall of N202.61bn or 26.6 per cent.

This performance is slightly improved compared to the same period in 2024, when the Discos collected N291.62bn out of N368.65bn billed, representing a collection efficiency of 79.1 per cent and a shortfall of N77.03bn.

However, the quantum of revenue lost in 2025 more than doubled year-on-year, and the percentage of revenue lost due to non-payment increased.

The performance indicates an improvement in volume from the total revenue collected by all Discos in 2024/Q4, which was N509.84bn out of the N658.40bn that was billed to customers. A detailed breakdown of the figures showed wide disparities in the performance of the Discos.


While some recorded moderate improvements, others still grappled with significant revenue gaps, raising fresh concerns over the financial viability of Nigeria’s power sector.

For instance, Ikeja Electric, which billed the highest amount among the Discos, issued invoices totalling N129.91bn but managed to collect only N101.2bn, leaving a gap of N28.71bn and a revenue shortfall of 22.1 per cent.

Similarly, Eko Disco billed N123.76bn but collected N101.51bn, a shortfall of N22.25bn or 17.9 per cent, while Abuja Disco billed N109.73bn and realised N88.1bn, losing N21.63bn or 19.7 per cent to non-payment.

Ibadan Disco billed N82.88bn but collected N61.73bn, losing N61.73bn or 25.5 per cent. Benin Disco billed N64.96bn, collected N52.31bn, and lost 19.5 per cent; Enugu Disco billed N55.56bn, receiving N44.95bn in payments.

At the lower end of the collection chart were Jos, Kaduna, and Yola Discos, all of which recorded alarming gaps between energy billed and actual revenue. Jos Disco billed N36.31bn but got back only N17.13bn, reflecting a revenue shortfall of over 52 per cent. Kano Disco billed N40.51bn, collected N25.5bn, recording a 37.1 per cent shortfall.

Kaduna Disco billed N24.22bn and collected N11.72bn, while Yola Disco billed N14.42bn and managed to recover only N8.2bn, representing a 43.1 per cent shortfall. Aba Power, the newest entrant among the Discos, billed N17.65bn and collected N9.32bn, losing N8.33bn in the process.

These shortfalls have once again brought to the fore the long-standing concerns over Discos’ operational efficiency, especially in the area of revenue collection. The data paints a grim picture of persistent inefficiencies in revenue assurance, particularly in the northern axis of the country, where collection rates are lowest.


In a recent media briefing, the Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, expressed disappointment at what he described as “chronic underperformance” by the Discos, blaming their inability to invest in critical metering, network upgrades, and collection systems.

“The Discos are not meeting expectations. There is a serious lack of investment in infrastructure and revenue assurance mechanisms,” Adelabu said. “This inefficiency is one of the biggest obstacles to ensuring cost-reflective tariffs and attracting investment into the sector.”


He said the government was reviewing performance agreements and warned that licenses of consistently underperforming DisCos could be revoked if there was no measurable improvement.

Energy experts have long argued that revenue shortfalls in the power sector threaten not only the financial health of the Discos but also the entire electricity value chain, including the transmission and generation segments, which rely on regular remittances to survive.

Amidst persistent complaints about erratic electricity supply, many Nigerians continue to grapple with poor power delivery, largely due to recurring technical faults on distribution feeders.

Recently, the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company said it refunded electricity credit worth N241.45m to 9,823 customers across its franchise areas as compensation for billing irregularities and regulatory infractions committed between June 2024 and January 2025.

The NERC report concludes that “efforts must be intensified by all DisCos to close the metering gap, improve network reliability, and enhance billing transparency” to improve trust and boost collections.


But unless the structural inefficiencies within the sector are decisively addressed, the issue of poor revenue performance and, by extension, unreliable power supply may persist well into the future.

Reacting to this, the National Secretary of the Nigeria Electricity Consumer Advocacy Network, Mr Uket Obonga, criticised the performance of power distribution companies, accusing them of gross underperformance and failure to comply with key regulatory requirements.

Obonga in an interview on Sunday, said there was no doubt the Discos were underperforming, particularly in the area of electricity distribution. He alleged that many of them were still engaged in load rejection, contrary to their mandated daily energy allocations.

“There is still the issue of load rejection by the Discos. Also, the Aggregate Technical, Commercial, and Collection losses remain high. This is clear evidence that the Discos are not meeting performance expectations,” he said.

On the recent concerns around increased electricity tariffs, the consumer advocate questioned the basis of the bills being issued, especially to unmetered customers.

“How much of these increased charges are even based on actual metered consumption? Are the Discos adhering to the approved energy caps or are they just issuing arbitrary bills in total disregard of the regulations?” he queried.

He further alleged that despite sanctions imposed by the NERC, some Discos were still violating the approved energy caps and misbilling unmetered customers. “I have it on good authority that some of these companies are still flouting NERC’s directives on energy caps, even after being fined,” he said.


Obonga maintained that the core challenge was the failure of the Discos to invest in infrastructure since taking over the distribution assets.

“After they paid the acquisition capital to buy 60 per cent equity, there has been little or no further investment from them. The 40 per cent held by the government has also not translated into meaningful improvement. No Disco has brought in the required investment funds for expansion and upgrade of the distribution network,” he stated.

According to him, this lack of investment has worsened ATC&C losses, revenue shortfalls, and market inefficiencies in the power sector. “If the ATC&C losses remain high, if revenue collection is poor, and if market shortfalls persist, then something is fundamentally wrong. It shows clearly that the Discos are not performing,” Obonga added.

A prominent Northern elder and public commentator, Alhaji Dabo Sambo, has warned President Bola Ahmed Tinubu that unless he urgently tackles insecurity and banditry, particularly in northern Nigeria, his chances of winning the 2027 presidential election will be slim.

Briefing newsmen, Alhaji Sambo, emphasized that insecurity remains the greatest threat facing the country, with lives and property constantly at risk.

He noted that restoring safety and stability is the primary function of any government, and failure to deliver on this front could cost the President re-election.

“Food is scarce in Nigeria and people are hungry,” Sambo stated, linking the growing food crisis to insecurity in the North-East and North-West—regions responsible for over 60% of the country’s agricultural output.

According to him, farmers are fleeing their lands due to banditry, kidnapping, and terrorist activities, causing a major drop in food production and rising prices.

He also pointed out the economic consequences of insecurity, including a weakened naira, high transportation costs, and rising inflation that are draining the savings of ordinary Nigerians.

Sambo issued a direct call to President Tinubu, urging him to resolve the insecurity crisis within the next six months and revive local agriculture within a year.

“If President Tinubu refuses to wipe out the security challenges, he will definitely not win the 2027 election,” he warned, drawing parallels with former President Goodluck Jonathan’s defeat in 2015, which he also attributed to unchecked insecurity.

“The era of carton noodles and salt distribution during campaigns is over,” he said. “People want security and food. Without these, they will not vote,” he said.

Sambo dismissed Tinubu’s political rivals as lacking credible plans to transform Nigeria, but insisted that if the president does not address the root causes of insecurity and economic hardship, even rigging structures will not save his re-election bid.

He added that President Tinubu must deal with the real enemies within his circle, saying the visible competitors are not the problem it’s the failure to act decisively on security and food production that could end his presidency.”

He further cited recent revelations from the U.S. Congress implicating the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) in allegedly funding Boko Haram claims also echoed by Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa. Sambo called on the Nigerian government to stop pretending and confront these international influences head-on.

Some ram sellers in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) on Wednesday attributed the high cost of rams to insecurity and low supply from the Northwest.

The traders, in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) during a market survey in Abuja, said the low supply was also due to the closure of Nigeria’s borders.

Malam Ahmed Mai-Samari, a livestock dealer at the Dei-Dei livestock market, told NAN that rams’ supply to major cities was far below expectations compared to 2024, especially from neighbouring countries.

“You know we mostly get these animals from Niger and other nearby countries that share borders with us in the north, especially the moderately sized ones.

“Now, we have to rely solely on local supply from household livestock farmers, which is limited.

“Many traders have even left the business for more profitable ventures,” he said.

He noted that the price of rams had doubled compared to 2025, attributing this to rising transportation costs and the overall cost of living.

“A ram that sold for N200,000 in 2024 now goes for N400,000. Only the rich can afford it now.

“Prices vary depending on size: smaller rams cost between N150,000 and N190,000, medium ones go for N200,000 to N250,000, while large rams range from N350,000 to as much as N1 million,” he explained.

Similarly, Mr Sanusi Abdullahi, a roadside livestock trader in Dutse, said ram prices ranged from N200,000 to N700,000.

He added that sourcing the animals locally had been stressful and costly due to limited access from Niger Republic, likely caused by ongoing political tensions.

“I and my boys had to go from village to village across different states, gather the rams, and transport them here. It hasn’t been easy,” he said.

On sales, Abdullahi revealed he had sold only seven out of about 120 rams in two days, though he remained hopeful of selling at least half before Sallah, even at minimal profit.

In Bwari, another roadside trader, Malam Mustapha Aminu, popularly known as “Biggie”, also lamented low patronage, blaming it on inflation and economic hardship.

According to him, while many Muslims wish to participate in the Eid el-Kabir sacrifice, most can no longer afford it.

“Even though the cheapest ram at my stand goes for N100,000, only a few people have bought so far. This time last year, I had sold nearly all my stock.

“Things were tough then too, but this year is worse. Still, we hope sales will pick up closer to Sallah,” he said.

Meanwhile, Mr Hameed Raji, a buyer in Bwari, said he had opted for a goat instead of a ram due to the high cost.

He explained that he bought an average-sized goat for N70,000, which he planned to slaughter for his family and friends.

Similarly, Mrs Rukayya Abdullahi said she and her husband chose to buy and slaughter three big chickens at N20,000 each instead of a ram.

“This will not only serve our visitors but also save us from borrowing money to buy a ram.

“By Allah’s grace, we hope to afford a ram next year,” she said.

Eid el-Kabir is celebrated globally by Muslim faithful and involves the slaughter of rams as part of worship, symbolising sacrifice and sharing meals with loved ones. (NAN).