The National Broadcasting Commission has barred Nigerian radio and television stations from airing the trending song “Tell Your Papa” by veteran rapper, Eedris Abdulkareem, citing its “objectionable nature.”
In a memo dated April 9, 2025 and issued by the Coordinating Director of Broadcast Monitoring, Susan Obi, the commission declared the track Not To Be Broadcast (NTBB) under Section 3.1.8 of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code.
This section prohibits content deemed inappropriate, offensive, or in breach of public decency from being aired on Nigerian broadcast platforms.
According to the NBC, while the song has gained momentum across social media platforms, its lyrical content fails to meet the standards of responsible broadcasting.
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The statement titled, “Restriction on boradcasting ‘Tell Your Papa’ by Eedris Abdulkareem,’ read, “The National Broadcasting Commission has identified the song ‘Tell Your Papa’ by Eedris Abdulkareem, currently trending on social media, as content deemed inappropriate for broadcast due to its objectionable nature.
NBC Bans Eedris Abdulkareem’s “Tell Your Papa” From Airwaves ” It is therefore classified as Not To Be Broadcast (NTBB), as it violates Section 3.1.8 of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code.
“The commission requests that your station exercises discretion and refrains from airing this song to maintain responsible broadcasting standards.
“Your cooperation and commitment to upholding greatly appreciated. Thank you, Susan Obi -Coordinating Director, Broadcast Monitoring.”
The controversial song, released earlier this week, targets Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Tinubu, calling on him to confront his father over the worsening socio-economic conditions in Nigeria.
In the track titled “Tell Your Papa,” which was shared on X (formerly Twitter) on Sunday, Abdulkareem delivered a blunt message, painting a grim picture of the hardships facing everyday Nigerians.
The song comes in response to Seyi Tinubu’s recent comments in Adamawa State, where he described his father as “the greatest president in Nigeria’s history.”
In the hard-hitting lyrics, Abdulkareem raps, “Seyi, tell your papa country hard. Tell your papa people dey die. Tell your papa this one don pass jagajaga.”
“Seyi, how far? I swear your papa no try. Too much empty promises. On behalf of Nigerians, take our message to him; kidnappers dey kill Nigerians.
“Seyi, try travel by road without your security make you feel the pains of fellow Nigerians. You dey fly private jets, insecurity no be your problem,” he sings.
Following recent crisis which trailed appointment of institutional heads in certain public universities and other tertiary institutions nationwide, the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Alausa, on Thursday approved the implementation of a guiding policy on eligibility for the appointment of Vice Chancellors, Rectors and Provosts.
The policy, which was announced by the Director of Press, Federal Ministry of Education, Folasade Boriowo on Thursday morning was said to have become necessary following a pattern of undue advantage observed over the years, “where officers serving in acting capacities often leverage their positions to influence appointment outcomes, thereby compromising the fairness and transparency of the selection process.”
The statement noted that the new policy aims to eliminate this practice, ensure a level playing field for all qualified candidates, and strengthen institutional governance.
The policy stipulates that any officer serving in an acting capacity as Vice Chancellor, Rector, or Provost shall not be eligible to apply for the substantive position while still holding the acting appointment.
It read, “However, in the interest of fairness, such officers may choose to recuse themselves from their acting positions before the expiration of their non-renewable six-month tenure, thereby becoming eligible to apply for the substantive roles.
“This policy is designed to complement the existing Federal Ministry of Education Guidelines for the Appointment of Vice Chancellors, Rectors, and Provosts (2013), along with all other extant regulations governing appointments in federal tertiary institutions.
“Governing Councils, Managements, and relevant stakeholders are hereby requested to ensure strict compliance with the new directive. For clarity and ease of implementation, the policy document is enclosed as Annex I, while the 2013 Guidelines are enclosed as Annex II.
“The ministry appreciates the continued dedication and cooperation of stakeholders in upholding good governance and maintaining the integrity of leadership appointment processes within the education sector. It is our belief that this policy will bring about the desired reforms and enhance public confidence in the selection of principal officers in our institutions.”
Certain institutions notably the University of Abuja, Admiralty University, the Nnamdi Azikwe University among others were recently in the eye of the storm following controversies which trailed the appointment of new institutional heads.
The government, through the Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris, disagreed with Zulum’s claim. The minister emphasised that the administration remains committed to combating terrorism and banditry across the nation.
The President Bola Tinubu-led Nigerian government has responded to comments made by Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, suggesting that the state may be losing control to Boko Haram insurgents.
The government, through the Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris, disagreed with Zulum’s claim. The minister emphasised that the administration remains committed to combating terrorism and banditry across the nation.
He stated, “The Tinubu administration is committed to eradicating acts of banditry and terrorism across the country. The successes achieved by the security agencies in the last 18 months are an indication that, indeed, Nigeria is gradually returning to normalcy.” “Government calls on all, especially the sub-national governments, to join hands to ensure rapid eradication of the remaining pockets of criminal elements wherever they may be.”
The Defence Headquarters also reacted, affirming that troops are making significant sacrifices and doing their best to restore peace in Borno and other troubled states.
Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj. Gen. Markus Kangye, stressed the importance of recognising the military’s efforts. He also said that the military is sacrificing a lot in the ongoing fight against terrorism.
Earlier, SaharaReporters reported that Governor Zulum raised the alarm over the deteriorating security situation in Borno State.
He cited recent Boko Haram attacks and the dislodgement of military formations in strategic areas such as Wajirko, Sabon Gari, Wulgo, and Izge as signs that the state may be losing control.
Speaking at a Special Expanded Security Meeting on Tuesday, Zulum condemned the continuous attacks and kidnappings, pointing out that these incidents are occurring almost daily without significant resistance from security forces.
He described the situation as a serious setback for both Borno and the wider North East region.
“As I address this important gathering today, it is unfortunate that the renewed Boko Haram attacks and kidnappings in many communities almost on a daily basis without confrontation signalled that Borno State is losing ground,” Zulum said.
The meeting was attended by Major General Abubakar Haruna, General Officer Commanding 7 Division, sector commanders, the Commissioner of Police, heads of other security agencies, and traditional rulers including the Shehu of Borno, Alhaji Dr. Abubakar Garbai Al-Amin El-Kanemi, and the Shehu of Bama. Zulum pointed to the recent dislodgement of military formations in Damboa Local Government Area (Wajirko and Sabon Gari), Gamboru Ngala Local Government Area (Wulgo), and Gwoza Local Government Area (Izge) as a deeply concerning development.
“While my administration has been very supportive of the military and other security agencies in the fight against Boko Haram, it is disheartening to note the recent attacks and dislodgement of military formations in Wajirko, Sabon Gari in Damboa, Wulgo in Gamboru Ngala, and Izge in Gwoza, along with the killing of innocent civilians and security agencies.
“This calls for serious concern and signals a setback in the fragile state of Borno and the North East,” he added.
A Deputy Director at the National Assembly Commission, Michael Adesiyan, on Tuesday, recounted his near-death experience in the hideout of bandits.
Adesiyan was abducted from his Chikakore residence in Kubwa, a suburb in the nation’s capital alongside his wife on January 26th, 2025 before he was rescued on April 7.
The civil servant narrated his ordeal to journalists at National Counter-Terrorism Centre, Abuja, when fresh 60 kidnapped victims, who were rescued by the security forces were presented to the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu.
Adesiyan called on the federal government to immediately look for a way to disarm the criminals and educate them, and possibly reintegrate them back to the society, adding that the bandits don’t know what they are doing.
According to him, his abductors were between the ages of 17 and 20, and they are stark illiterates who were not aware of what they were doing, and cannot even count N1 million let alone hundreds of millions they were asking as ransom.
He specifically said they were chained for 32 days he spent in the abductors’ den, adding that they killed his wife in his presence.
“I want to thank the government for rescuing us. I was chained for 32 days. I want to advise that the government should find away to disarm or arrest them (bandits), instead of confronting them.
“They can send them to school. Some cannot even count one million. They are stark illiterates. They are young people of ages 17 and 21. They don’t know what they are doing.
“So if they can bring them out, if they want to learn work (apprenticeship), they can let them do, retrain them, reorientate them, that they can be useful to themselves.
“My advice is to, instead of killing them, arrest them, reorientate them. If you want to educate them, they can then work. That’s my advice,” he said.
When asked why they were in a rush to tell their family members to pay ransom, he said, “When they kill someone in your presence you would give them anything they want.
“For instance they killed my wife in my presence. If they request for your head in that situation, you will give it to them.”
On his part, Ishaya Kuka, a brother to Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Rev. Fr. Matthew Kukah, said they suffered a lot in the hands of their abductors.
Kuka’s brother, who was also among the 60 rescued victims received by Ribadu and Minister of Defence, while sharing his experience said he never knew that he would still see the world again.
“Thank God for what we did yesterday. Frankly speaking, I was already out of my mind that I’m not going to see this world again due to how they were treating us in the bush.
“In the bush, we suffered too much. They used to chain us, two of us. If you are going to shit, you move with the other one. If you are going to piss, you move together.”
He stated that they pressure people into paying ransom.
He said, “About this money, people are saying that they are not supposed to be giving money. It’s because of pressure that they are putting, if they beat you in the bush, it will make you say you give money.
“Because if they discover that you don’t want to open your mouth and say you will give money, they will kill you. They will beat you. So, the pressure will be too much and you would have to give. ”
He appreciated the FG for rescuing them.
He said, “It is because of the federal government we are out, if not, up till now, we will still be in the bush. So, we thank you very much for what you have done to us. God bless, thanks.”
Earlier, while giving a breakdown, the Coordinator, National Counter-Terrorism Centre, Maj. Gen Adamu Laka said the victims comprising 35 males and 25 females, were rescued on Monday April 7, by troops of 1 Division of the Nigerian Army, in a coordinated operation supported by other security and intelligence agencies.
The founder of the defunct Diamond Bank Plc and a former chairman of MTN Nigeria, Pascal Dozie, is dead.
According to a statement issued by the family on Tuesday, the business tycoon died on Monday at the age of 85.
Born on 9 April 1939, Dozie was raised in a Catholic home, with his father, Charles Dozie, serving as a catechist.
He had his early education at Our Lady’s School Emekuku, Holy Ghost Juniorate Seminary, and Holy Ghost College, Owerri, where he obtained his West African Senior School Certificate Examination.
Seeking higher education abroad, he moved to the United Kingdom, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from the London School of Economics.
He furthered his studies in Operational Research and Industrial Engineering before obtaining a Master’s degree in Administrative Science from City University in London.
Dozie played a critical role in Nigeria’s banking and telecom industries, founding Diamond Bank, which later merged with Access Bank, and serving as the chairman of MTN Nigeria, overseeing its expansion.
His contributions to the country’s economic growth earned him widespread respect.
Dozie is survived by his wife, Chinyere, and five children.
PRESS RELEASE NATIONWIDE PROTEST: NPF CAUTIONS AGAINST ILL-TIMED PROTEST ACROSS THE COUNTRY
The Nigeria Police Force has read in the news that a group called “Take it Back Movement” is planning a protest across various states of the Federation, most especially the Federal Capital Territory, scheduled to hold on Monday 7th April, 2025, a day earmarked by the Federal Government as the National Police Day, to celebrate the resilience and dedication of officers and men of the Nigeria Police Force.
While not against the exercise of citizens right to peaceful assembly and association in Nigeria as enshrined in the Constitution, the Nigeria Police Force is deeply concerned about the motive behind such protest scheduled on the same day the contributions of the Nigeria Police Force to national security is to be celebrated, putting into consideration that such glamorous event would bring together dignitaries from all spheres of life both internationally and within the country, including Foreign Inspectors-General of Police and Diplomats.
In line with best global practices adopted by nations in celebrating the achievements of its Police institution, the Nigerian Government has taken the bull by the horn by declaring every April 7 as National Police Day. The rationale behind staging a nationwide protest on the same day is however questionable and perceived to be a deliberate attempt and unpatriotic act that is capable of rubbishing and maligning the image of the Nigeria Police and the nation as a whole.
The Nigeria Police Force hereby advises the organizers to shelve this planned protest as it is ill-timed and mischievous.
The Nigeria Police Force under the leadership of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, while reaffirming the commitment of the NPF to adequately carrying out its mandate in accordance with the Law and respect for rights of citizens hereby urges all the organizers of the planned protest as well as individuals who intend to join the protest to pursue dialogue by engaging the proper institution of government to press home their demands.
ACP OLUMUYIWA ADEJOBI, mnipr, mipra, fCAI, FORCE PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER, FORCE HEADQUARTERS, ABUJA. 6TH APRIL 2025
This year, President Bola Tinubu marked Eid-el-Fitr in Abuja.
Until now, he had never spent a multi-day holiday in the Aso Rock Villa. On most major holidays, he leads his team, like geese on seasonal migration, from the calm of the capital to the bustle of Lagos.
So, it surprised some when word leaked that he’d changed his mind hours before the usual trip.
Lagos has been the President’s favourite holiday spot in the past four holiday cycles since he assumed office. It appears that he is gradually getting over his nostalgia and is comfortable holidaying away from his old base.
However, staying in Abuja during such festivities carries a tradition: the President hosts select residents of the Federal Capital Territory, who are usually led to the Villa by the FCT Minister.
It means those not regularly in the Villa could briefly access the President. At one such gathering in April 2023, journalists covering Muhammadu Buhari shook hands with him as he posed for photos with his guests in the lobby.
Last Sunday, Tinubu honoured this custom, welcoming his first set of Sallah guests—an FCT delegation headed by Minister Nyesom Wike.
The party included lawmakers representing the FCT at the National Assembly, area council chairpersons, traditional rulers, leaders of the Christian and Muslim communities, and senior judicial officers.
During the visit, Tinubu light-heartedly cautioned Wike against using his infrastructure blitz to tilt the political tides in Abuja in favour of the main opposition, the Peoples Democratic Party.
“I remember the day Nyesom Wike came to me and said, ‘Please, take us out of this problem of TSA so that I can do more work and achieve more.’
“Then I said, ‘Okay, tell me what you’re about to do.’ And he presented it. And I threw in my own political guide. ‘Would that give me any opportunity for my party to win the election in the FCT?’
“I said, ‘I know where you are coming from, your own party or my party. If this thing goes too much in your own favour, you will lose your job.’ Then he said, ‘Okay, we will settle that, Oga.’”
The President spent much of his speech pouring praises on Wike, his ally from the opposition party, dubbing him “Master of Infrastructure.” The applause and a firm handshake left the minister strutting like a peacock, head high and cartoonish chest out.
However, it was not to be so for the rest of Tinubu’s guests, who did not get the “presidential handshake” the programme of events promised.
After such meetings, guests often file out to shake the President and take photos with him. But the President’s men opted for a group photograph instead.
As the small crowd left, some looked crestfallen. One guest pointed to a red rug bearing the presidential seal and muttered, “This is where we used to do it.”
He pointed to the already prepared spot, with the Nigerian flag and the presidential colours standing side by side, and the Coat of Arms hanging on the wall.
They walked away, hoping for another chance if Tinubu holidays in Abuja again.
Whether the President has truly embraced the capital is unclear. Eid ul-Adha, from Friday, 6 June to Tuesday, 10 June, will be the next test.
Days later, he proved the Lagos skip was only a delay; Paris was always in sight. But first, there was some firing to do.
In the early hours of Wednesday, the Presidency announced sweeping changes at the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited board, removing the chairman, Pius Akinyelure, and the Group Chief Executive Officer, Mele Kyari. He then appointed Bashir Ojulari as the new CEO, effective April 2, 2025.
The statement said the overhaul is crucial for “enhancing operational efficiency, restoring investor confidence, boosting local content, driving economic growth, and advancing gas commercialisation and diversification.”
The new leadership is to “conduct a strategic portfolio review of NNPC-operated and Joint Venture Assets to ensure alignment with value maximisation objectives.”
Observers note that Nigerian presidents often release major decisions just before or during foreign trips, when lobbying is harder.
The accuracy of this claim is still unfounded. Hours after the announcement, Tinubu left for a two-week retreat in Paris. Coincidence?
“During the visit, the President will appraise his administration’s mid-term performance and assess key milestones,” one of his three spokesmen, Bayo Onanuga, revealed in a statement on Wednesday.
Tinubu will also use the retreat to “review the progress of ongoing reforms and engage in strategic planning ahead of his administration’s second anniversary” and will return to Nigeria in about a fortnight.
Wednesday’s movement becomes his 38th foreign trip since assuming office about 23 months ago. It is also his seventh trip to the European state.
So far, Tinubu has logged over 140 days abroad, visiting about 20 countries and accumulating over 300 flight hours.
Countries visited include Malabo, Equatorial Guinea; London, the United Kingdom (four times); Bissau, Guinea-Bissau (twice); Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Nairobi, Kenya; Porto-Novo, Benin Republic; The Hague, Netherlands; Pretoria, South Africa; Accra, Ghana; New Delhi, India; Abu Dhabi and Dubai in the United Arab Emirates; New York, the United States of America; Riyadh, Saudi Arabia (twice); Berlin, Germany; Addis Ababa, Ethiopia (twice); Dakar, Senegal; and Doha, Qatar.
The driver and conductor of a BRT bus have fled for their lives, abandoning passengers to their fate, as a BRT bus caught fire at Maryland, Lagos State, on Saturday morning. Our correspondent, who was at the scene of the incident, said that the vehicle departed from Ikorodu en route to CMS when the sad incident occurred.
As of the time this report was filed, emergency responders, including officers of the Nigeria Police Force, the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), fire services, and local security personnel, arrived at the scene to contain the blaze.
Firefighters at the scene. One of the passengers on the bus told our correspondent the fire started as smoke from the driver’s side.
According to her, the passengers initially thought the smoke emanated from other buses; however, the slight smoke soon worsened, immediately sending them into panic mode.
“As soon as we saw that the smoke grew bigger, we immediately rushed off the bus before the fire ignited”, she said, adding that none of the passengers sustained any injury.
She added that the driver fled the scene immediately after the fire started.
“The driver and the conductor ran away. They didn’t even wait to see what would happen to us.
“Definitely, they knew what happened. They knew the bus was bad before putting it on the road and risking our lives,” she alleged.
Reports of Atiku Abubakar’s Resignation from PDP Are Malicious Lies and a Political Hatchet Job
We ordinarily would not waste words on faceless social media platforms like the so-called "Adamawa Happenings." However, in light of inquiries from concerned Nigerians and credible members of the press, we are compelled to set the record straight:
His Excellency Atiku Abubakar, former Vice President of Nigeria (1999–2007) and Presidential Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has not — we repeat, has not — resigned from the PDP. He remains a steadfast, bonafide, and loyal member of the party.
The source of this baseless rumour is a Facebook page peddling falsehoods, evidently orchestrated by desperate political operatives with nothing but mischief and confusion on their agenda. It is a calculated attempt to mislead the public and sow discord among the millions of Nigerians who look to Atiku Abubakar for direction and leadership.
This is not just fake news — it is a crude, shameless political hatchet job.
We urge Nigerians, especially supporters of the Waziri Adamawa, to disregard this malicious fabrication. It is a vile, vexatious ploy that deserves nothing but contempt.
Atiku Abubakar remains committed to the ideals of the PDP and to the democratic aspirations of the Nigerian people.
Signed: Paul Ibe Media Adviser to @atiku Vice President of Nigeria (1999-2007) and Presidential candidate of the @OfficialPDPNig Abuja April 4, 2025.
David Umahi, the minister of works, says he was unaware of the decision to close the Independence Bridge in Lagos.
On Monday, Olukorede Kesha, the federal controller of works in Lagos, announced the closure of the bridge for essential maintenance and rehabilitation works.
Kesha added that the bridge would remain closed until the end of May.
However, the closure resulted in hours-long gridlock, with commuters and motorists stranded on Wednesday in the Victoria Island area of Lagos.
Following the public outcry that trailed the gridlock, Umahi ordered the immediate reopening of the bridge.
On Thursday, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the governor of Lagos, said the state government would take full responsibility for the gridlock.
The governor also apologised to residents for the gridlock experienced due to the rehabilitation of the bridge.
However, Umahi, who also visited the scene later on Thursday, said the controller decided to shut the bridge independently.
“I am here as directed by Mr. President. The president watched the agony that Lagosians went through yesterday (Wednesday) for the reason of closing the Independence Bridge for rehabilitation,” the minister said.
“I am very displeased, even though the subject matter—the rehabilitation of the already collapsed returned wall of the Independence Bridge—is very important.
“He (Tinubu) has asked me to be in Lagos and to free the traffic. I have looked at the structural problem; I am aware of it.
“We designed the rehabilitation; however, unfortunately, when the bridge was closed, I was not informed. The controller made that decision on her own, which is very unfortunate.
“In a place like Lagos, it has always been the tradition that I, as the minister, should be informed before such closures.
“We should have also studied the implications of shutting down the bridge.
“Even though this was an emergency, we could have conducted an urgent evaluation of the potential impact before closing the bridge.”
The minister warned all controllers and engineers that no road or bridge should have been closed without first obtaining approval from the relevant authorities.
He added that failure to follow this process would result in consequences and disciplinary action for those involved.
VIDEO: I was unaware of Independence Bridge closure, controller did it on her own, says Umahi
A chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Bode George has accused President Bola Tinubu of travelling to France when Nigeria is experiencing series of insecurity crisis.
George said it was shameful that while Nigerians don’t feel safe anymore, Tinubu’s administration was focused on trivial matters like recalling suspended Kogi Central Senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
The former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, disclosed this in a statement he signed, titled: ‘Whither Nigeria, my beloved country.’
He said, “Today, and with the series of crises, insecurity, hunger, joblessness and other vices in the country, President Bola Tinubu has taken off to Paris, France for reasons best known to him and his handlers.
“Nigerians don’t feel safe anymore in their fatherland, but the Federal Government, All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Senate are only interested in recalling Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. What a shame!
“Aside from the fact that history is a faithful record of the past, it is also a prophecy of what is coming. That is why Fela’s song is still apt, decades after. Today, I see what led to the collapse of the First and Second republics being repeated by the APC-led Federal Government.”
On Wednesday, President Tinubu jetted out of Nigeria to France.
Tinubu’s spokesman, Bayo Onanuga said the president is expected to “return to Nigeria in about a fortnight”.
Since the return of democracy in 1999, sleaze has always been seen as the second shadow of our National Assembly. During the tenure of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, Senators were regularly induced to change their leadership, which resulted in the emergence of four Senate Presidents between 1999 and 2003.
Large sums of money were moved around in “Ghana-must-go” bags to influence NASS members to do the biddings of the Executive branch, one of which was Obasanjo’s aborted third term bid. The corruption perception of the Federal Legislature ebbed considerably from the tenure of the late President Umaru Yar’Adua.
Politics of trenchant opposition and the need to protect the leaderships of the Senate and House of Representatives helped reduce the unabashed movement of cash to buy their loyalty. The lawmakers became more discreet in their dealings.
Since Bola Tinubu was sworn in as President in May 2023, the National Assembly has returned to its default mode. Tinubu, who was once a very influential Senator during the military regime of General Ibrahim Babangida, is a strong believer of a president having full control of the Legislature.
Right from the general elections and the emergence of the current National Assembly led by Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Speaker Tajudeen Abbas of the House of Representatives, Tinubu called the shots to position his loyalists in the leadership. He has also been very “generous” to them. The National Assembly and Supreme Court were among the first to benefit from Tinubu’s hundreds of billions of welfare packages to make them comfortable.
It is not surprising that Tinubu’s critics, particularly former President Obasanjo and his erstwhile Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, are among those who have directly accused the lawmakers of being compromised to support the president’s declaration of state of emergency and sack of democratic structures in Rivers State.
While many lawmakers have denied the allegation, the Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Mukhtar Betara, who was caught red-handed sharing $5,000, claimed it was a “Sallah gift”. This immediately brought back the episode where Senate President Akpabio, on camera, told senators that money (which he later called “prayers”) had been sent to their accounts to enable them enjoy the recess they were embarking on.
Massive institutional corruption has put our democracy on the path of failure. The NASS has apparently given up its function of checks and balances, and public confidence in it has been eroded. The NASS has largely abdicated its function of representation. This is unacceptable!
Our social organs of conscience must rise to bring back our National Assembly. If we do not recover our wayward representatives, we will wake up one day and find ourselves in a dictatorship worse than military rule!
He referenced past incidents in Bauchi State, where local communities successfully fought off Boko Haram insurgents without waiting for security forces.
The Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Mr. Adeola Oluwatosin Ajayi, has stated that Nigerians must take responsibility for their own security, as the military, police, and intelligence agencies do not have the capacity to protect every community from terrorist attacks nationwide.
Ajayi made the remarks during a public engagement, which Symfoni broadcasted.
He referenced past incidents in Bauchi State, where local communities successfully fought off Boko Haram insurgents without waiting for security forces.
"Speaking seriously about the practical approach to mobilising against insecurity, I will share my experience when I was a State Director in Bauchi," Ajayi said.
"Most of you will remember an incident in Azare. A group of Boko Haram terrorists invaded Azare, shooting in an attempt to kidnap people. But the community fought back. They killed some members of the community, but in the end, the people killed all of them. Since that day, there has not been a single terrorist attack in Azare."
Ajayi went further to cite former dictator General Ibrahim Babangida (retd.) as endorsing the idea of community-led resistance.
"As a matter of fact, the former Head of State, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, said, and I quote, ‘If we want to stop or curb terrorism, we should emulate the Azare example.’"
According to Ajayi, Tafawa Balewa Local Government in Bauchi State also serves as a case study of community defence.
He said: "The people there rose up on one occasion. They knew their terrain better, climbed up the trees and mountains, and when the invaders came, they not only stopped them but also seized their weapons. Since then, you hardly hear about attacks in Tafawa Balewa.
"What I am trying to say is that the practical approach to mobilising people is that you have to get everyone involved. You cannot expect the Nigerian Army, police, or DSS to protect every Nigerian in every community.
“It is impossible to deploy security forces everywhere. No security agency has the resources to do that."
Ajayi urged Nigerians to rethink their approach to self-defence, emphasising that communities must serve as the "first line of defence" against terrorists and other criminals.
"The military, police, and other security agencies are there to handle the bigger threats. But communities must take responsibility for defending themselves at the local level.
“Our culture is communal. We do things together—weddings, ceremonies, and everything. So why can’t we fight against some of the miscreants among us together? The community should make it clear: ‘You cannot come here.’
"This is what Tafawa Balewa has done. If you go there to attack them, you will regret it. I challenge anybody to try it."
Ajayi called on Nigerian elites and influential figures to encourage this model in their communities.
"When we leave here, those of us who have influence, the elites in society, must discuss with our communities. Come to us, get some approvals and guidance, and then we can stop these criminals,” he added.
The police have asked Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduagan to cancel her planned Sallah rally in the Central Senatorial district of Kogi State.
The State Commissioner of Police, Miller Dantawaye made this known on Tuesday in a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP William Aya.
According to the statement, the Kogi police boss said the rally is against the proclamation on ban on political gathering by the state government issued on Monday.
The statement said, “Following the intelligence report on security threats in Kogi State and the subsequent ban on all forms of Rally and procession by the Kogi State Government, the Nigeria Police Force, Kogi State Police Command has called on the organisers of planned rally at Okene to cancel such event in the interest of the peace in Kogi State.
“The call for cancellation becomes necessary, noting that intelligence reveals that some hoodlums plan to hijack the process and cause disturbance of peace in the State. The Command cannot afford to jeopardize the existing peace the State is currently enjoying.
“In view of the security threat received on the planned rally, the Kogi State Police Command is therefore advising the organisers to cancel the event so as to avoid any breakdown of law and order in the State. As the Command will not hesitate to apply the full wrath of law on any one who causes disturbance of peace and order in the State.”
Despite the Monday proclamation by the state government banning political gathering or rallies, Akpoti-Uduaghan has vowed to continue with her “homecoming”, adding that she’s only coming to the state to celebrate Eid Fitr with her constituents.
The Federal Government has hinted at plans to establish “Renewed Hope Cultural Villages” across the 36 states in a bid to promote Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage and boost the creative industry,
Special Assistant to Honourable Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, Abiola Jagunlabi, speaking in an interview with journalists in Ilorin disclosed that the project is part of the Federal Government’s “Renewed Hope Cultural Project,” aimed at preserving Nigeria’s cultural heritage, promoting tourism and driving economic growth.
According to Jagunlabi, the cultural villages will be established in collaboration with state governments, with the aim of transforming historic sites into vibrant creative hubs, fostering economic growth and job creation in the arts and entertainment sectors.
He explained that the project will focus on restoring and conserving historic sites, monuments, palaces, and artefacts, as well as enhancing cultural education and capacity building in local crafts.
“The project’s success relies on the active participation and collaboration of state governments, local communities, and stakeholders.
“By working together, Nigeria can unlock the transformative power of its arts, culture, tourism, and creative industries for sustainable development and social cohesion.
“The initiative, which aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, is expected to have a significant impact on the country’s economy, creating thousands of jobs and generating revenue through tourism and creative enterprises” Jagunlabi said.
Jagunlabi further said that the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, is committed to boosting Nigeria’s economy through innovative programmes and policies.
To achieve this, she’s forging partnerships to develop the creative industry, unlocking job opportunities for the country’s youth.
This comprehensive approach, he said, will not only enhance Nigeria’s creative industry but also contribute to the country’s economic diversification and development.
He revealed that the National Economic Council (NEC) has already approved the project, paving the way for the transformation of Nigeria’s creative industry.
WAT Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has recounted his encounter with his close relative who narrated how their wealthy uncle ran short of cash during the naira scarcity in 2023.
Recounting the experience at a special Iftar held in his honour at the Presidential Villa on Saturday night, Tinubu said the odds were against him during the 2023 campaigns, so much that he contemplated withdrawing from the race.
He said, “Those close to me know that the odds were against me. During the campaigns, one of them came to my living room around 3:30 a.m. and said he needed just N50,000 to buy foodstuff for our uncle.
“He told me, ‘The currency is gone because of you. People are jumping over bank counters because there is no cash. Our uncle, a wealthy man, doesn’t even have N10,000 in cash. What are you running for?
Eid-El-fitr: ‘Extend love, kindness to one another,’ Ganduje tells Nigerians I nearly quit 2023 Presidential Race – Tinubu “I told him, ‘I am running for President, not for you and our uncle.’ I gave him the N50,000. As he walked out, he turned to me and said, ‘I don’t think you will make it.’ I replied, ‘I will make it,’” Tinubu declared.
He added, “I was amazed. At that moment, I almost dropped the idea of running for President. But thanks to Aminu Masari and all of you who encouraged me.
“When I came to Abuja, Masari told me, ‘I am the Chairman of the North West Group; don’t look back’,” he said.
Further speaking, the President explained reasons why he declared the removal of fuel subsidy during his inauguration.
“On the day of my inauguration, I had to decide on something not originally in my speech, and that was the fuel subsidy removal.
“The hallmark of a great leader is the ability to make the right decision at the right time.
“That was the day I declared that the subsidy was gone. The following day, I was hounded and thoroughly abused in the media. But I stood firm, knowing it was the right thing to do for our nation’s future.” he added.
Some commercial vehicle operators in Ibadan have lamented the low turnout of passengers travelling for the Eid-el-Fitr celebration and holidays.
The drivers, in separate interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Ibadan on Saturday, said there had been no significant surge in passenger traffic at the motor parks.
NAN reports that the respondents spoke at the Ojoo, Iwo Road and Sango motor parks.
They noted that the situation was different from the rate at which commuters travelled during the 2025 New Year celebration.
NAN, however, reports a slight upward review of transport fares to the lesser cities, while the fare to Lagos and other major cities did not change.
Mr Azeez Abdullah, an official of the Park Management System (PMS) at Iwo Road Bus Terminal, said many were forced to celebrate in their base due to the nation’s economic realities.
This, he said, contributed to the low turnout of commuters across all routes.
He added that the transport fare from the park to Lagos remained the same at between ₦3,500 and ₦4,500, depending on the destination park in Lagos.
“Transport fare to Ilesa, Ondo and Ado-Ekiti stays at N4,500, N5,000 and N7,000, respectively; we cannot increase the fare now because passengers are not rushing,” he said.
Similarly, a driver at Ojoo Bus Terminal, who chose to be anonymous, reiterated that passengers were not travelling as expected, thus forcing commercial motorists to maintain the transport fare.
He, however, noted that passengers might pay a little higher while returning to their base after the Eid-el-Fitr celebration.
Increased kidnapping: Transporters adopt ‘soole’ method as low patronage hits inter-state travels According to him, this will be due to the usual rush to catch up with the official resumption date for civil servants and other workers who must resume work.
A passenger at the Sango Motor Park, Mr Abeeb Adeleye, said he had stayed for hours waiting for a bus to Saki to be filled up.
He confirmed that there had been no significant increase in the transport fare due to the low turnout of passengers.
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