Amberly01: The Supreme Court on Friday set aside the decision of the Court of Appeal disqualifying Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN) and Dr. Muiz Banire (SAN) from appearing as counsel for Neconde Energy Limited and Nestoil Limited, affirming the companies’ right to appoint their own legal representatives in a dispute challenging the validity of a receivership.
In a unanimous judgment delivered by Justice Mohammed Baba Idris, the apex court held that where the legality of a receiver’s appointment is itself in dispute, such a receiver cannot assume the authority to appoint counsel to represent the company in the same proceedings.
The ruling effectively restores Olanipekun’s appearance for Neconde and Banire’s representation of Nestoil in the high-profile $2 billion debt dispute involving a consortium of lenders led by FBNQuest Merchant Bank Limited and FBN Trustees Limited.
At the heart of the dispute was whether a receiver appointed by lenders could exclusively determine the legal representation of a company, even when the validity of that appointment is being challenged in court.
The Supreme Court answered in the negative.
Justice Idris noted that the questions submitted by the lenders before the trial court sought judicial interpretation on critical issues, including whether the lenders were entitled to enforce security, appoint a receiver, and whether the receiver could lawfully exercise powers under that appointment.
According to the court, these questions strike at the “very foundation” of the receivership, rather than relating to routine management or realization of assets.
“It would occasion a conflict of interest,” the court held, “for a receiver appointed by parties whose rights are being challenged to also determine the legal representation of the company in the same proceedings.”
The apex court emphasized that the receiver’s authority is derived from the very transaction under challenge, making it improper for such a receiver to control the company’s legal defence in a suit questioning that authority.
It further held that proceedings challenging the validity and scope of a receivership do not fall within the general powers granted to a receiver under Section 556(3) of the Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA) and its Eleventh Schedule.
In such circumstances, the court ruled, a company cannot be stripped of its residual powers to defend itself through its board of directors and counsel of its choice.
“The defence of the action through its directors and the counsel retained by them cannot be said to be incompetent merely because a receiver has been appointed,” Justice Idris declared.
The Supreme Court specifically faulted the Court of Appeal’s January 13, 2026 decision, which had disqualified Olanipekun, Banire, and their legal teams, while recognising the receiver as the sole authority competent to appoint counsel.
Describing that position as erroneous, the apex court held that the lower court failed to appreciate the conflict inherent in allowing a receiver—whose appointment is under judicial scrutiny—to control the company’s legal representation.
The case, marked SC/CV/48/2026, arises from an alleged $2 billion indebtedness owed by Nestoil and Neconde to a consortium of lenders.
Following an alleged default, the lenders appointed a Receiver/Manager to take control of the companies’ assets and operations.
By affirming that companies can retain independent legal representation in disputes challenging receivership arrangements, the Supreme Court has clarified a critical aspect of corporate governance and creditor enforcement, with implications for future insolvency proceedings.
Fair enough! Substance not technicality. Not yet Uhuru though!!!
uche87: The article headline appears damning and alarming. I agree. Ignore it for a second and focus on the crux of the matter. On the 6th of February 2026, a Ghanaian nurse named Richmond Mensah, a father of one, went to sleep in preparation for a night shift and never woke up. He was just 33. He left behind his wife and a 14-month-old daughter. His story is not an isolated case. Similarly, Samuel Acquah, a Ghanaian nurse at Southend University Hospital in Essex, died in his sleep in August 2025, leaving behind a wife and two children in Ghana. The list of Ghanaian healthcare workers who have died suddenly is long and well-documented online.
In recent years, many immigrants have passed away under circumstances linked to stress. There is a sleeplessness epidemic across the Western world. Due to the high cost of living, people literally work around the clock to make ends meet. Many people take on both night and day shifts, hoping their situation will eventually improve. Approximately one in three adults in the UK experiences sleep problems or symptoms of insomnia, with over 80 percent of the population affected by poor sleep at some point. Recent data suggests that more than half of UK adults, 51 percent, do not get enough sleep, and around 10 percent suffer from persistent, chronic insomnia. According to Aviva, key factors affecting sleep in the UK include financial worries, affecting 45 percent of people, stress, and work-related issues.
The implication is clear. Stress takes a toll on the human body and can destroy it if left unchecked. There is a saying in academia that the shorter your sleep, the shorter your life. It was popularised by British sleep expert Matt Walker, PhD, an author, scientist, and professor of neuroscience and psychology at the University of California, Berkeley.
If you sleep more, you live longer. If you sleep less, your lifespan reduces. According to the NHS, adults need 7 to 9 hours of sleep, while children need 9 to 13 hours daily. Sleep is central to human health and wellbeing. It affects overall human functioning. Lack of sleep impacts memory, processing speed, and mood. It even affects the size of a man’s testicles. Furthermore, the strength of a man’s genes can be weakened by sleep deprivation. The immune system is also compromised. In addition, sleep affects physical strength and motivation. Mental health is not spared either. Sleep deprivation can lead to depression and other serious conditions, such as obesity, body pains, high blood pressure, dizziness, and even heart attacks or cardiac arrest.
In recent years, how many Nigerians who move abroad can truly boast of meeting the daily sleep threshold of 7 to 9 hours? It is a very small percentage. Most Nigerians who relocate abroad are absorbed into the blue-collar sector, where jobs are physically demanding and emotionally exhausting. The pay is often modest, and to meet bills and responsibilities, many are forced to work unsociable hours.
In the UK, for example, coming in as a student is particularly challenging. Highly indebted students attend classes during the day and work at night. I once heard of a man who spends his day doing heavy lifting in a warehouse as a loader. After 11 hours, he resumes a night shift at a hospital where he works as a support worker. He relies on short breaks to catch a few hours of sleep. It is never enough. When he gets home, he cares for his child. Within this tight schedule, he still fulfils his responsibilities to his wife. This is the reality of many immigrants in Europe and America.
Social media validation, the pressure to appear successful, unrealistic targets, impatience, the need to send money home, and the lack of social safety nets for immigrants are all factors pushing people slowly toward early graves.
At first, everything seems fine, with no visible concerns. Then, gradually, the body begins to break down. One of the early signs of stress abroad is loud snoring like those Shomolu power generators, regardless of body size. Soon after, symptoms such as constant tiredness, loss of energy, poor concentration, frequent drowsiness, and recurring illness begin to appear.
From my personal observation, many immigrants adopt coping mechanisms used by locals in an attempt to manage stress and lack of sleep. They rely on stimulants such as coffee, energy drinks, and vapes to keep going. Some go further, turning to pills, weed, and other substances. While these may offer temporary relief, the long-term consequences can be severe and life-threatening. It is a deep and dangerous cycle.
With the growing rate of sleeplessness among Nigerians abroad, it may take sheer luck for many to live long. Although people are aware of these risks and are trying to transition into white-collar jobs, upward mobility remains limited, especially for people of colour.
As the legendary rapper MI Abaga said in one of his songs, “Don’t spend your life to buy money, because you can’t spend your money to buy life.”
enemyofprogress: FG insists Nigeria safe after US Embassy Abuja suspended visa appointments indefinitely hours after issuing travel advisory
The Federal Government insists Nigeria is safe for all Nigerians as well as foreigners who visit the country for business or pleasure. The Federal government gave the assurance hours after the US Embassy in Abuja ordered the evacuation of non-emergency staff and their families from its embassy in Abuja. The embassy in a fresh statement issued on Thursday evening announced the indefinite suspension of visa appointments in its Abuja consulate.
In a statement released, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, said the advisory did not reflect the overall security situation in Nigeria. He described the US decision as a precaution based on internal protocols rather than an indication of widespread insecurity.
“While we acknowledge isolated security challenges in some areas, there is no general breakdown of law and order, and the vast majority of the country remains stable.”
He pointed to ongoing security operations across multiple regions, noting that coordinated military action, intelligence-led interventions, and closer inter-agency collaboration have produced measurable results.
“Our security agencies remain actively engaged in protecting lives and property, and the results of these efforts are increasingly evident,” he said, adding that these efforts had disrupted criminal networks, limited the activities of armed groups, and improved safety in vulnerable communities.
The minister also emphasised that Nigeria continues to welcome business, investment, and travel.
While recognising the right of other countries to issue travel advisories, Idris urged international partners to seek accurate and current information.
“We encourage our international partners to continuously engage with Nigerian authorities to obtain a more comprehensive and current understanding of the situation on the ground,” he said
alanto: I say e go reach everybody. Outsiders don't know Chinua Achebe or Igbos. They only know us as Nigerians. So when those nonsensical behaviour gets out of the roof, na all of us go bear the brunt.
Either we start changing it for them now collectively or we allowed them battered the image of the country so much that our passport won't be able to visit Benin without presidential help.
I just hope they listen to the voice of the elders. The typical Igbo who has money listens to no one!
dododawa1: The Federal Government has described the coronation and activities of Eze Ndigbo “Igbo Kings” in foreign countries as embarrassing.
Amb. Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, disclosed this in a statement issued on Thursday, against the backdrop of the Imeobi meeting, the highest decision-making body of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide in Enugu.
The minister in the statement issued by Dr Magnus Eze, Special Assistant on Communication and New Media, Office of the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, described the situation as an embarrassment.
According to her, it has become a big embarrassment to the government, Ndigbo, Nigerians and other foreigners in those countries, where they have Eze Ndigbo.
“This is as the National Executive Committee of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide in collaboration with the South East Council of Traditional Rulers abolished the concept of Eze Igbo outside Igboland”.
She narrated that Igbo associations in diaspora usually stage cultural activities to promote their heritage, but unfortunately, the enthronement of traditional rulership by some of these Igbo groups has severely caused friction.
This, according to her, is not just among the Igbo communities themselves, but also between the Igbo and their host communities.
The minister stated that people could still express themselves culturally without causing nuisance to the indigenous people of the host country and others.
She recounted that recently, violent protests erupted in South Africa’s Eastern Cape, following the controversial coronation of a Nigerian Igbo leader, Solomon Eziko, as “Eze Ndigbo na East London” Igbo King in East London.African economy outlook
Also the event sparked an outcry from local residents, traditional leaders, and political parties, leading to violence, the torching of foreign-owned vehicles, and looting.
“On March 14, 2026, Eziko was crowned as a traditional leader in KuGompo City, East London, a move interpreted by South Africans as an unlawful challenge to local sovereignty and traditional leadership structures.
“Protests began on March 30, with demonstrations organised by groups including ActionSA, which quickly escalated into violence. The protesters targeted foreign-owned businesses and vehicles, with reports of no fewer than 13 vehicles being destroyed.
“At least one stabbing incident was reported, and police had to use stun grenades and tear gas to restore order.
“The Eastern Cape House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders condemned the coronation as flagrant violation of customary protocols.
Also, the South African government’s Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs declared the installation illegal and in violation of the constitution,” she said.
She revealed that the ministry deployed diplomatic channels in tackling the situation, adding that the Nigerian High Commission in South Africa distanced itself from the coronation, acknowledging it was a cultural event misinterpreted and not formal, recognised monarchy.African economy outlook
She also said the Nigerian Embassy in Pretoria officially apologised for the confusion and crisis, urging Nigerians in South Africa to maintain a low profile and avoid further confrontations.
The minister said the Deputy High Commissioner, Olajide Ogunmadeji, had addressed some protesters saying the situation was misinterpreted, as the coronation was only ceremonial, rather than the installation of traditional authority that defied the existing system.
She recalled a similar incident that occurred in Ghana in July, 2025 because of the Eze Ndigbo issue, while addressing the Ohanaeze Imeobi/General Assembly.
She disclosed leading delegation to Accra to douse the tension, as Ghanaian protesters demanded Nigerians must leave, saying aggrieved Ghanaians issued compatriots quit notice, insisting Nigerians must go.
The minister urged Ohanaeze Ndigbo to prescribe sanctions for any persons flouting its directive abolishing Igbo traditional rulership outside Igboland.
She quoted the President_General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Sen. Azuta Mbata, to have presented the decision of the apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, saying they have adopted the position of the traditional rulers abolishing the Eze Ndigbo title in diaspora.
“Anybody who is being awarded that type of title anywhere outside of Igbo land is on his own.
It is unknown to the Igbo people and we will call upon all state governors, we will correspond to all embassies in the world informing them about the position of Ndigbo.
“The position of Eze Ndigbo anywhere outside Igbo land is hereby alienated and proscribed. That is the position of Ohanaeze Ndigbo worldwide.
“We will determine in consultation with the kings of Igbo land what the punishment will be for anybody who goes against this position and that punishment will be implemented at the village level.
Your hometown, your town union will be under injunction to implement that punishment but we are going to declare that punishment after due consultation.”
She further assured that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs would help disseminate the Ohanaeze communique on the issue through its Missions and High Commissions. (NAN)
Chinua Achebe a prominent Igbo and a global literary icon had this to say about The Igbo, his kith and kin -"There is no doubt at all that there is a strand in contemporary Igbo behaviour that can offend; by its noisy exhibitionism and disregard for humility and quietness." THE WORDS OF OUR ELDERS ARE WORDS OF WISDOM. ONE IS IN THE HOPE THAT NDIGBO WILL LISTEN TO THE WORDS OF OUR ELDERS.🧐🧐🧐.
RightChanneI: According to data reported by Detik.com, top 10 Countries With The Most mosque are #Indonesia #Indian #Bangladesh #Saudiarabia #Pakistan #Egypt #Turkey #Nigeria #Algeria #Iran
They should be more. The noise every morning is indescribable!!! A cacophony of sorts!!!!
Generally speaking, in modern day warfare, Generals don't die in battle but here in Nigeria even a Four Star General might bite the dust where his command post is overrun due to malfunctioning APC that has no ready to go back-up Tank. Twice now it has happened in the ongoing war against terror in Nigeria. It shows extreme vulnerability, a potential collapse in command structure, and portends a severe shock to troop morale. It also signposts tactical error on the part of the Army and truth be told: a decapitation and a chain rout of the Nigerian Army by the supposed rag-tag army of terrorists! That is the worrying aspect of this matter!
Thewrath: Sometimes I wonder how Dey delude themselves into thinking Nigeria is capable of saying NO to the US,when it couldn’t say NO to neighboring countries as ecowas leader..we buy weapons,aircraft’s,technology from them,our economy is heavily dependent on the US dollar,etc.
If they wanted our resources,they can get it! If they wanted a regime change,they can get it! If they wanted to break Nigeria,they can easily get it! They can get whatever they want and we can’t do sh*t about it.
You forget that Nigeria is non-aligned. Those who threaten others usually do not end well. We may disagree on issues but we may not say unprintable things to others.
Penguin2: A northerner on X has reacted to a popular northern influencer on X known as Sarki who stated he would be going on exile should Peter Obi win 2027 presidential election.
Reacting, the user noted that they would cut the legs of anybody that comes to campaign for Tinubu in the north since Sunday Igboho said nobody will campaign for a northerner in the Southwest.
This just simply exposes why it is always unprofitable to make inflammatory statements.
Just imagine other regions issue same instruction against people outside their region, that would be recipe for disaster.
Wisdom is indeed profitable to direct.
Nlfpmod Mynd44 Fergie001
These folks don't realise that Nigerian politicians are largely in the same mould. What to say is to say that the legs of ALL Nigerian politicians who are corrupt and are not providing electricity, roads and security will be cut off.
helinues: Answer my damn question and stop shifting.
How come the attacks on christian communities and schools increased since USA arrived in Nigeria.
You sure are in the best position to answer to why you and your ilk have increased such attacks since USA arrived in Nigeria. You won't be saying all these but for those in power who balk at acting on intel about the attacks.
helinues: How come your almighty USA could do jack about it since they arrived at Nigeria?
Exactly the problem with you and your ilk! Your thoughts lack depth. It does not occur to you that power must be exercised responsibly. The USA will not do power anyhow so it prefers to show restraint and use other means to advance its interest where possible.
helinues: Just before the closure of the Us consular office in Abuja with the evacuation of all its staff there citing an impending security risk in our nation's capital, there was a message from Trump blaming CNN ( understandable) and some media in Nigeria ( I still can't comprehend what's allegations all about.
Trump and USA are frustrated because so far, Nigeria is amongst the few countries they have been unable to bully.
Their main frustration is not allowing them to take over our mining sector which was the reason the christian persecution story was concocted.
Nigeria as a country should be expecting sanctions from USA, they can do their worst though, that won't make to us bend to their demands
You mean USA demands that you secure the homeland🧐. They closed their Embassy when you won't do so. Christian genocide is real in Nigeria especially in the North: you cannot deny my reality. I experienced it firsthand and survived by the especial mercies of God! Why are you people like this?🧐🧐🧐🧐. Why won't you allow others worship what they will while you do same🧐🧐🧐🧐. They left anyway. Deal with it!!
Correct step just taken! Truth however is that the court is not likely to grant the injunctive reliefs sought as it would amount to delivering final judgment in the Suit without allowing merit to have a say in the matter. Accelerated hearing day-to-day might be the middle road the court will travel.
Tabithatim: Governor Mbah is the first Nigerian governor to embark on the construction of brand new Type 2 Primary Healthcare Centres in every political ward across the state. All the 260 PHCs are currently at various stages of completion, equipping, furnishing, and staffing.
Mbah inherited supposed healthcare facilities that had suffered decades of neglect and dilapidation. He could have taken the easy route of patching up and repainting structures that had long outlived their designed lifespan. But he chose the harder path of building modern, fit-for-purpose facilities that meet 21st-century standards, because Ndi Enugu deserve nothing less. Tomorrow is here.
Governor Mbah is the first Nigerian governor to embark on the construction of brand new Type 2 Primary Healthcare Centres in every political ward across the state. All the 260 PHCs are currently at various stages of completion, equipping, furnishing, and staffing. Mbah inherited… pic.twitter.com/qE6ThogVRN
Mbah is headed for the Presidency! Not unlikely!! He is outshining Umahi who has become controversial lately. Soludo's offering is reactive. Peter Mbah is a proactive young and performing Igbo Governor. Very discreet. Power hugs The Discreet.
johnmartus: But this mr Sunday like power he was a two term minister for youth during Buhari administration. Two terms commissioners in lagos also special adviser as well now a special adviser to president. Some people have been sustain with public funds.
He just knows his way around power. One major marker is not to talk too much. Power is compromised by leakage. Power, like lead acid batteries, is best kept sealed!
Angelfrost: World view?!! Really?!! You are concerned about PR?!!
We are talking about a whole nation being unprotected from even enemies within, you are concerned about how the world will see our military.
Your position is misconceived! How the army of a country is perceived speaks a lot about its effectiveness and efficiency and the rating and military cooperation it receives. You do not appear to understand my drift.
Not again! This is not good for the morale of the troops and how the world sees the Nigerian Army. Signposts a decapitation and a chain-rout of the Nigerian Army! Corruption showed up!!
OLAADEGBU: Ijele made the revelation during a podcast appearance titled “The King Of The Game,” where he spoke at length about his past relationship with Sowore, the founder of SaharaReporters, and the circumstances that led to a fallout between them.
SmartPolician: Peter Obi is getting fit for the work ahead!
BTW, Nigeria has 3 major tribes - Hausa (Fulani), Igbo and Yoruba.
If the most influential politicians from any two align, they will likely kick out the incumbent.
This is definitely going to become Tinubu's fate if we have a free and fair election in 2027.
Tribal politicians will never get to be Nigerian President. Awolowo learnt that too late. Akintola was misunderstood trying to tell Awolowo so. Few Yoruba folks are bold enough to say that openly! All the same I should think you know the tribes you are stitching together to achieve Tinubu's fate you seek.
You are talking about Association of Disgruntled Comrades! What do you expect? The wobbly pot-belly of Rotimi Amaechi is still hungry. The money bag of Atiku is on a power buying binge while Peter Obi is playing tricks on his emotive and deluded followers resolutely set on the course whose end is sure to be politically fatal especially because delusion can be a fatal phenomenon!
By Dave The Marksman and Baba Kabiru The Straggly Beard Man! Indeed so much has been appropriated by Atiku The Money Man in the shoddy takeover of ADC! Next time they will learn to ask for the original item not the fake one! They are both on offer!! We await his answer.We await his answer.
yarimo: So ATIKU can be confused in politics like this
He lost his political grey matter when Yar'Adua passed away!! Since then he has been staggering about politically like a drunken sailor. He will go overboard and into the murky and stormy waters of politics when he moves to NDC like Makinde is rumoured to be planning. The sharks in those waters will finally have him where they want him and tear to sheds politically. Wike will be waiting for him in the Niger Delta Coalition also known as the NDC!
OKON125: I have sat down trying to decipher why a certain group of people(behind the scenes nd on the scene acting scripts like war ND killing so much!!! I can't comprehend massive killings since the genesis of this iran, Israel ND USA war, it's so unfair... Alots of bloodsheding, destruction of infrastructure nd evacuation of families..
Can someone explain to why the people in love war!!! How can you slaughter your fellow humans....
Your question is misplaced and misdirected. You should be asking Iran that question. Intelligence indicates that Hamas was armed by Iran to do the carnage they did in Isreal affecting day old babies, the infirm, elderly, the young and all. If Iran had nuclear arms it would have used it and you and I would not be here typing things in comfort.
MrEar: That is why they want this war to continue.
They are addicted to killing civilians most especially children!
In gaza alone, 21,000 children have been killed. 147 of those children were starved to death.
But let us not complain, they are "Gods chosen nation."
God chose and blessed them to commit crimes against humanity, the same humanity he sent his son to die for.
Rather unfortunate that the terrorists you speak up for are adept at using children and civilians generally as human shield! They are so unconscionable and with scant value for life that they also use Hospitals and schools as military command centres!!! They are near animals in the manner they behave and think (after their horrendous acts)!!! Could you address that please. If you attack me from an established position then I will ensure that position is put in a disabled condition. As for France, it is not strange for France to take such positions. France prefers to have others fight its battles! France almost stands for nothing! Little wonder, France fell in only six weeks in 1940. They are defensive in war posture!!!
kingjayzeelan07: The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) is set to roll out a new set of Bank Verification Number (BVN) guidelines from May 1, 2026, in a decisive move to curb fraud, strengthen identity protection, and safeguard Nigeria’s financial system.
The updated framework introduces tighter controls on phone number changes, device usage, and transaction limits, signalling a major shift in how Nigerians access and secure their bank accounts.
NEW BVN REGULATIONS EVERY CUSTOMER MUST KNOW
Here are five key rules every account holder must understand before the deadline.
1. One-time phone number change
Under the new rules, customers can now change the phone number linked to their BVN only once in their lifetime. The policy targets rising cases of SIM-swap fraud, where criminals take over phone numbers to gain access to bank accounts.
Customers are therefore advised to link their BVN to a secure, long-term phone number—preferably one already tied to their National Identification Number (NIN).
2. BVN registration is now strictly 18+
The CBN has set 18 years as the minimum age for BVN enrollment. This means minors will no longer be allowed to hold independent BVNs. Instead, parents and guardians must rely on structured banking products designed for children to manage funds on their behalf.
According to a report by Vanguard, the move is aimed at tightening identity verification and reducing misuse of financial identities.
3. 24-hour fraud watchlist window
Banks are now required to place any BVN linked to suspicious activity on a temporary 24-hour watchlist.
During this period, affected accounts may be restricted or frozen while the bank contacts the customer for verification. The short-term freeze is designed to prevent fraudulent transactions from moving funds beyond recovery.
4. One device per banking app
In another major shift, mobile banking apps will now be restricted to one device at a time. Logging into your banking app on a new device will automatically deactivate access on the previous one and trigger additional authentication checks. This step is intended to block fraudsters from accessing accounts across multiple devices using stolen login details.
5. ₦20,000 transaction cap on new devices
Customers activating their banking apps on a new device will face a temporary transaction limit of ₦20,000 within the first 24 hours. This restriction acts as a safety buffer, ensuring that even if an account is compromised during setup, the amount that can be moved is significantly limited.
WHAT CUSTOMERS SHOULD DO BEFORE MAY 1
With the new rules set to take effect soon, customers are urged to take proactive steps to avoid disruptions:
• Confirm your BVN-linked phone number: Ensure it is active, secure, and permanently yours.
• Update details early: If you must change your number, do so before the deadline to avoid being locked into the one-time limit.
• Secure your devices: Be prepared for stricter login processes when switching phones or reinstalling banking apps.
A SHIFT TOWARD SAFER BANKING
The CBN’s latest BVN reforms reflect growing concerns over digital fraud and identity theft in Nigeria’s banking sector.
While the new measures may introduce short-term inconvenience, they are expected to significantly improve account security and restore confidence in digital banking systems.
For millions of Nigerians, the message is clear: act now, or risk being caught off guard when the new rules take effect.
Remains to be seen how this will positively impact our security as a nation where financial transactions have oiled banditry, kidnappings and genocide against Christians 🧐
A coalition of prominent Nigerian political figures on Wednesday staged a protest in Abuja, demanding reforms in the country’s electoral system and accusing the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of bias.
The demonstration, tagged “Occupy INEC” and “Save Our Democracy,” was spearheaded by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, alongside Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi, former Kano State governor Rabiu Kwankwaso, and former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi.
Also present were the National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), David Mark, former Osun State governor Rauf Aregbesola, former Sokoto State governor Aminu Tambuwal, and former senator Dino Melaye, among other party leaders and supporters.
Trigger for the Protest
The protest follows INEC’s decision to withdraw recognition from the ADC leadership after a Court of Appeal ruling, a move the demonstrators described as politically motivated.
Organisers said the action was aimed at drawing attention to what they termed increasing interference in the electoral process and the need to safeguard Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
Atiku Abubakar, who had earlier announced the protest, said it was a peaceful demonstration driven by a commitment to protect democracy and prevent any slide toward authoritarian rule.
Voices from the Streets
At the protest venue, demonstrators chanted “Ojoro”, a slang expression suggesting electoral malpractice, while holding placards bearing inscriptions such as “Tinubu, why are you afraid?”, “Let democracy breathe,” and “Judges must give justice.”
Participants also sang “Arise, O Compatriots,” Nigeria’s former national anthem, in what appeared to be a symbolic expression of national unity and civic responsibility.
Amaechi Urges Citizens to Act
Addressing the crowd, Rotimi Amaechi called on Nigerians to take an active role in defending the country’s democracy.
He warned against political manipulation and emphasized the importance of maintaining the integrity of the electoral process.
According to Amaechi, the protest reflects a broader commitment among political leaders to demand credible, free, and transparent elections, adding that safeguarding democracy is a responsibility that extends beyond politicians to all citizens.
Rising Political Undercurrents
The joint appearance of Atiku, Obi, Kwankwaso, and other influential figures—many of whom were rivals in the 2023 presidential election—has fueled speculation about possible political realignments ahead of 2027.
Analysts say the protest signals growing concern among opposition leaders over electoral credibility and could mark the early stages of coalition-building.
Call for Electoral Integrity
The protesters urged INEC to remain independent and uphold its constitutional responsibility to conduct free and fair elections.
They warned that any perceived bias could erode public trust and weaken Nigeria’s democratic framework.
The protest underscores increasing political tension as the country gradually shifts focus toward the 2027 general elections, with stakeholders calling for transparency, accountability, and stronger democratic institutions.
See Mumu singing military anthem to press for so called democracy! The earlier folks realise that these political charlatans are not about our common interest but they seek their selfish interest in power to feather their nest! APC, ADC, NPC, LP, SDP et al! Stay away from them all!
Business › Re: Supreme Court Restores Olanipekun, Banire As Counsel In $2bn Nestoil Dispute by zoedew: 2:27pm On Apr 10
?🧐🧐🧐🧐. Why won't you allow others worship what they will while you do same
