With the death on Monday, March 7, of Dr Doyin Okupe, twice a presidential spokesman, Nigeria has been deprived of a pan-Nigerian politician. Okupe, who died of cancer at 72 in a Lagos hospital, was free of the primordial tendencies that have over the years made our country underachieve, despite stupendous resources.  

Though he and Chief Moshood K.O. Abiola, the Social Democratic Party presidential candidate in the June 12 1993 vote, hailed from Ogun State, the National Republican Republican Convention candidate in the election, Bashir Tofa, had no difficulty assigning the most trusted role in the election to him: the NRC chief party agent. In this position, Okupe had to certify the overall election result. This was when ethnic, regional, religious, and other primordial forces had not seized Nigerian politics and, by extension, national affairs and even personal relationships.

Still, when the Ibrahim Babangida military regime announced the cancellation of the vote, Okupe, guided by a profound sense of justice, issued a statement declaring Abiola the winner and lacerating the military junta for the announcement that took Nigeria to the brink. Many Lagosians were impressed by his action and gathered in their numbers the next day at his 21 Sere Close in Ilupeju, Lagos, a stone’s throw from my own residence. The gathering became almost a daily ritual, with me almost on every occasion leading the prayer for the official release of the June 12 election result and the law of Karma for the annullers.

When the Sani Abacha malevolent dictatorship began to crack down on the Yoruba mostly for their relentless opposition to the election annulment and stiff opposition to his rule, Okupe genuinely felt that there was, indeed, an existential threat to his people. He and Fredrick Fashaun, another medical doctor, formed the OmoOduduwa People’s Congress (OPC). Okupe’s star role in the OPC emergence remains a secret for some reason. Ironically, the OPC under Gani Adams became the albatross of the Obasanjo government in the early years, making Okupe commission Tayo Adesina, then a senior history lecturer at the University of Ibadan, and myself to report on how to make the OPC become a non-violent organization.

With the Abdulsalami Abubakar regime returning Nigeria to democracy in 1999, Okupe joined the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) principally because of Olusegun Obasanjo, seeking the party’s presidential ticket. Though I was a committed supporter of Alex Ekwueme, Obasanjo’s main rival for the ticket, Okupe and I enjoyed the best relationship.

Many journalists were piqued that Obasanjo, on assuming office on May 19, 1999, named Okupe, a medical doctor, his special assistant on the media, a position traditionally reserved for consummate communication practitioners. I naturally came to his defence, citing Pope John the Second, who had a fantastic global media reputation managed by his press secretary, Joaquin Navarro-Valls, a Spanish medical doctor who specialized in psychiatry. I also cited the example of Cyprian Ekwensi, the pharmacist and novelist who did a masterful job as a Biafran propagandist during the Nigerian Civil War and later managed the government-owned Renaissance newspapers in Enugu in the 1970s. Ekwensi’s brilliance showed brilliantly in the implementation of the War Against Indiscipline (WAI) campaign coordinated by the Federal Ministry of Information and Culture in the 1980s under Group Captain Emeka Omeruah.

Okupe had always craved publicity roles, obviously to make up for his failure to study English or communication in the university. He was doing better in the art subjects than in the science ones at Igbobi College in Lagos and so wanted to be a writer. However, his elder sister, a medical doctor who had so much influence on him, wouldn’t hear of it. On one occasion, she drove him to a theatre where she showed him some haggard-looking people and told him pointedly, “These hungry people are artistes. Do you still want to be like one of them?” That’s how he found himself in medical school at the University of Ibadan and met people like Seyi Roberts, with whom he established a bond, not just a relationship.

Okupe was the leader of the Lagos Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) committee on HIV/AIDS in the mid-1980s because it entailed a lot of public communication. He was the national publicity secretary of the Liberal Convention, a political party in the late 1980s, and also the NRC national publicity secretary, which saw him write a weekly column in Sunday Times, sharing the same page with Ojo Maduekwe, the special assistant to the SDP national chairman, Babagana Kingibe. Okupe delighted in his several debates with Maduekwe, a celebrated articulate lawyer who was to become a Minister under Obasanjo. Despite belonging to opposing parties, Okupe and Maduekwe were very close and admired each other. On Okupe’s 40^th birthday, Maduekwe spoke glowingly of the celebrant.

Okupe gave the presidential press secretary office dignity and tremendous influence. He was an excellent political strategist, making him a most valuable asset. A lot of people who wanted things done quickly from above approached him, with some gaining access to him through me; the list includes Dr Chris Ngige who was to become a very effective Anambra State governor, and Prince Yormie Johnson, the Liberian warlord who killed President Samuel Doe in 1990 and died last November at 72 while serving as a senator in his country.

A man of the people, Okupe’s residence in Abuja was always filled to the brim with visitors from all parts of Nigeria. No sooner was the Obasanjo administration inaugurated than Okupe and his lovely wife, Lola, insisted I stay with them during a visit from Lagos. As each room had at least two occupants, they decided that I share their bed with them. When one of the visitors failed to return that night, however, I had to share a room with a Customs officer married to the wife’s sister.

Okupe was pained to know that my village in Ihiala, Anambra State, had no electricity access because of the perfidious role of some influential individuals. The next day he wrote a letter to the National Electric Power Authority (NEPA) Managing Director asking him to address the matter urgently. The letter was honoured promptly. In appreciation, my community conferred on the presidential spokesman the chieftaincy title of Nwanne Di N’Mba of Umuezeawala, Ihiala, on December 31, 2000, but he couldn’t attend the ceremony in person. He was over the moon when the regalia and the accouterment were presented to him in his residence in Lagos. His family was there, including his aged mother who came from Iperu, Ogun State. She addressed my people in Igbo, telling us of her memorable days in school in Onitsha as a young girl.  

A fervent believer in Nigeria’s unity, Okupe was proud that his daughter has an Igbo husband. He always had Igbo persons in his office in both the private and public sectors. There was one popularly known as Alhaji from the Southwest who made an AI in Igbo in the school certificate examination as a student of St Patrick’s Secondary School, Emene, Enugu, and married a woman from Awo Omama in Imo State. Okupe always showed him off to his Igbo visitors.  Okupe appreciated that I gave his son, Bolu, the popular Igbo name, Emeka, at birth.

I remember vividly how Okupe and I met for the first time. It was in December 1985 in the beautiful Samuel Shonibare Estate in Maryland, Lagos. I was visiting Lagos to explore a job opportunity since the newspaper where I was working in Enugu was, for all practical purposes, dead. When Okey Ndibe, working at The Guardian, visited Nnamdi Obasi and Chike Akabogu, who were Concord newspaper editorial board members, they suggested we visit Okupe to discuss politics and a health newspaper he was setting up. I didn’t say anything at the meeting, yet when we were going, Okupe gave me only a big envelope. I needed the money.

When I returned to Lagos and settled in Ilupeju after some months, who would move from Shonibare Estate to almost the next street to my house without knowing I was living there? Omooba Doyin Okupe! Thus began a deep friendship between him and myself. His siblings, especially Wemi, Lanre and Owo, became more or less my own brothers.

Nigeria has just lost a true patriot in Dr Okupe. He was a Nigerian Original. May God receive his soul in heaven.

Adinuba was the Anambra State Commissioner for Information & Public Enlightenment.

Experts have predicted that the ongoing trade war will significantly impact the economies of Nigeria and other emerging markets.

Earlier this week, U.S. President Donald Trump imposed 25% tariffs on goods from Mexico and Canada, as well as 20% tariffs on imports from China.

This fresh round of duties on Chinese goods doubled an initial set of tariffs placed on China last month. In response, China imposed additional 15% duties on U.S. imports, including chicken, pork, soy, and beef, and expanded controls on doing business with key U.S. companies. Canada has also responded with its own measures.

Possible slowdown in U.S. growth 

Speaking on the Drinks and Mics podcast, Samson Esemuede, MD/CIO of Zrosk, forecasted a slowdown in U.S. growth relative to the rest of the world, regardless of whether the tariffs continue or are lifted.

He expressed skepticism about the uncertainty created by Trump’s policy actions, noting that markets thrive on certainty.

According to Esemuede, there will be a relative deceleration in U.S. growth, while markets like China and Europe, which have underperformed post-COVID, may surprise on the upside.

“So, within that context, I felt like relative growth rates for the rest of the world in favor of the rest of the world, we pull capital out of the US, which is why when we did our buy-hold sell, I had a sell on the US, and then that leads to a weakening dollar, and the weakening dollar should basically benefit emerging markets and frontier markets, and by extension, Nigeria should benefit from that.

He added, “If that continues, that would be the case. However, there is a risk that is now evolving. My assessment of the US recession for 2025 was probably a 5% to 10% probability that the US would go into recession because the economy was so strong and consumer spending was very healthy. And now, I think with what is happening with Trump, the uncertainty, the impact on inflation, the probability of a recession is probably around 30% to 35% probability. If that stays and we don’t go into a recession, but we see a material slowdown in US growth, I think that’s positive for Africa and that will be positive for Nigeria.” 

However, Esemuede warned that if the U.S. goes into a recession, it will negatively affect everyone because the dollar will strengthen as there will be a flight to safety.

Weak dollar beneficial for emerging markets 

Chief Investment Officer at Cordros Capital LTD, Arnold Dublin-Green, shared a similar view. According to him, a weak dollar is beneficial for emerging markets.

“A weak dollar also means our commodity prices are good. Commodity exports in countries like us, like Ghana (gold), South Africa, Kenya exports flowers. It’s good for Africa. It’s good for EM. So we all have the same view.” 

He added, “And that’s the crowded trade that you’re seeing right now. Everyone’s saying, ‘Okay, hold on a minute. It’s a weak dollar we’re going into. Let me look for cheaper assets in countries that export commodities. Our external debts also get serviced, so it’s better for us. So weak dollar, where it’s going right now, looks positive for us.”  

What you should know 

• On Wednesday, China’s Premier Li Qiang announced that China would again boost its defence spending by 7.2% this year and warned that “changes unseen in a century were unfolding across the world at a faster pace.” This increase was expected and matches the figure announced last year.
• Leaders in Beijing are trying to send a message to people in China that they are confident the country’s economy can grow, even with the threat of a trade war.
• China has been keen to portray an image of being a stable, peaceful country in contrast to the US, which Beijing accuses of being embroiled in wars in the Middle East and Ukraine.

China may also hope to capitalise on Trump’s actions relating to US allies such as Canada and Mexico, which have also been hit by tariffs, and will not want to ramp up the rhetoric too far to scare off potential new global partners.

[NaijaNews]

The Senate Leader, Bamidele Opeyemi, has clarified that the Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, was suspended for gross misconduct and not because of a sexual harassment allegation against Senate President, Godswill Akpabio.

Naija News recalls that Natasha’s clash with Akpabio began in February over her refusal to move to a new position assigned to her in the Senate.

She later went on TV and made sexual misconduct allegations against Akpabio, and on March 6, 2025, the Senate suspended her for six months, withdrawing her security details, among other terms.

However, Natasha’s suspension has been stirring controversies among many Nigerians.

Reacting to the aftermath of the suspension, Opeyemi, the lawmaker representing Ekiti Central Senatorial District, in a statement on Saturday, said certain media organisations are circulating false narratives on Akpoti-Uduaghan’s six-month suspension.

Opeyemi stressed that Natasha was suspended solely for her persistent misconduct, blatant disregard for the provisions of the Senate Standing Orders 2023 and gross indiscipline.

He further said that the Kogi lawmaker’s suspension was a decision of the committee of the whole Senate following the submission of a report by the chairman, Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions, Senator Neda Imaseun, adding, the report found Natasha guilty of violating Sections 6.1 and 6.2 of the Senate Rules.

Opeyemi urged the public and the media to disregard any false reports suggesting otherwise and to always seek the truth before spreading politically motivated narratives.

The statement read, “The Authority of the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria firmly rebuts the deliberate misinformation and false narratives being circulated by certain media organizations regarding the six-month suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti Uduaghan.

“Let it be unequivocally stated that Senator Uduaghan was suspended solely for her persistent acts of misconduct, blatant disregard for the provisions of the Senate Standing Orders 2023 (As Amended) and gross indiscipline—nothing more, nothing less.

“It has come to the attention of the Senate that some media reports are attempting to falsely suggest that Senator Uduaghan’s suspension was due to allegations of sexual harassment.

“This is completely untrue, misleading, and a calculated attempt to distort the facts. If Senator Uduaghan had strictly followed our guiding principles, the Senate would have treated her petition based on merit in line with its practice. But she never obeyed the established practices of the institution where she was serving.

“The disciplinary action was a response to her repeated violations of legislative decorum, including: 1. Refusing to sit in her assigned seat during plenary on 25th February 2025, despite multiple pleas from the Minority Leader and other ranking Senators—an act of open defiance and disorderly conduct.

“2. Speaking without being recognised by the presiding officer in clear violation of parliamentary practices and procedures on 25th February 2025. 3. Engaging in unruly and disruptive behavior, obstructing the orderly conduct of Senate proceedings.

“4. Making abusive and disrespectful remarks against the leadership of the Senate. 5. Defying and refusing to comply with the summons of the Senate Committee on Ethics and Privileges mandated to investigate cases of misconduct.

“These actions represented a direct challenge to the Senate’s authority and a violation of Senate Standing Orders 2023 (As Amended), which govern the Senate’s business and the conduct of its members. The disciplinary measure was, therefore, necessary and justified to restore order and uphold the integrity of the Senate as the country’s foremost democratic institution.”

[NaijaNews]

It is not an exaggeration to opine that not many octogenarians in Nigeria, or anywhere in the world, can boast of the level of physical fitness, mental sharpness, and unrelenting energy that former President Olusegun Obasanjo continues to display. As he marked his 88th birthday in grand style, showcasing his physical agility and stamina, Nigerians could not help but admire this enigma of a man who has defied age with remarkable grace. Obasanjo, a two-time paramount leader of Nigeria, has not only left an indelible mark on the country’s political landscape but also serves as an inspiring figure in personal discipline and resilience.

In fact, he is no doubt a rare breed of leader as he is one of the rare African leaders who have transitioned from military to civilian leadership and left an enduring impact on governance. His service to Nigeria spans several decades, beginning as a military officer, head of state from 1976 to 1979, and later as a democratically elected president from 1999 to 2007. Despite the controversies that have trailed his political career, one thing remains undisputed: his passion for Nigeria and his capacity to sustain a leadership presence even in retirement.

His recent public display of physical fitness during his 88th birthday celebration is not just an event for amusement, it is a testament to his disciplined lifestyle, resilience, and commitment to personal well-being. In a country where life expectancy hovers around 55 years, Obasanjo’s vibrancy at 88 is nothing short of remarkable. It begs the question: what is the secret behind his longevity and agility?

Guesstimating about the secret to Obasanjo’s enduring strength, it is not a misnomer to opine that his impressive physical fitness is no accident. Over the years, he has maintained an active lifestyle, often engaging in farming, exercising, and maintaining a disciplined diet. He has never shied away from physically demanding activities, whether it be long walks on his Ota farm, engaging in sporting activities, or dancing with youthful enthusiasm at public functions. Unlike many of his contemporaries who have succumbed to the limitations of old age, Obasanjo has continued to defy expectations.

There is also the mental fitness factor. Obasanjo’s engagement in intellectual and political discussions has kept his mind sharp. He remains one of Nigeria’s most vocal elder statesmen, regularly speaking on national issues and providing insights that shape political discourse. His penchant for writing books, delivering speeches, and engaging in diplomatic missions has ensured that his mind remains as active as his body.

He is no doubt an example for younger generations. At a time when many young people struggle with fitness and health-related issues due to sedentary lifestyles, Obasanjo’s vitality at 88 serves as a powerful example of the benefits of regular physical activity and discipline. Many Nigerians in their 30s and 40s complain of fatigue, high blood pressure, obesity, and other lifestyle-induced ailments, yet here is a man nearing 90 who moves with agility and continues to exude remarkable energy.

His fitness should serve as a wake-up call to both young and old Nigerians to take health and wellness seriously. If Obasanjo can still move with the strength of a man decades younger, what excuse do younger people have for neglecting their health?

Beyond his physical fitness, Obasanjo is known for his bluntness and fearless approach to national discourse. He is one of the few Nigerian leaders who have never hesitated to speak truth to power, regardless of whose ox is gored. Unlike many politicians who are careful with their words to avoid offending the political elite, Obasanjo calls things as he sees them.

Over the years, he has taken a firm stance on national issues, whether it be condemning corruption, criticizing poor leadership, or calling out inefficiency in government. He has written open letters to sitting presidents, challenging them on governance failures and urging them to do better for the Nigerian people. His outspokenness has earned him both admirers and detractors, but he has never been one to shy away from saying the hard truths.

His fearless attitude is a rare quality in Nigerian politics, where sycophancy and political correctness often take precedence over national interest. Obasanjo remains one of the few elder statesmen who consistently hold leaders accountable, making him a voice of reason in times of political uncertainty.

In addition to his frankness, Obasanjo is a detribalized Nigerian who has always placed national unity above ethnic or regional sentiments. In a country often divided along ethnic and religious lines, he has consistently preached and practiced national cohesion. Unlike many politicians who only serve the interests of their ethnic groups, Obasanjo has worked with individuals from all parts of Nigeria and has never shown favoritism based on tribal affiliations.

During his time as president, he appointed ministers and advisers from various ethnic backgrounds, emphasizing competence over ethnicity. His vision for Nigeria has always been one of unity and progress, where every citizen, regardless of tribe or religion, has an equal stake in the country’s development.

Even in retirement, he continues to advocate for a united Nigeria, urging leaders to rise above ethnic biases and govern with fairness. His ability to interact freely with people from different regions and his willingness to support capable leaders, regardless of their background, make him a truly national figure.

In many parts of the world, leaders understand the importance of maintaining good health to function effectively. However, in Nigeria, many political leaders do not prioritize physical fitness, often letting themselves go under the weight of their responsibilities. The result is a class of leaders who are barely able to keep up with the demands of governance due to poor health.

Obasanjo, through his lifestyle, indirectly emphasizes that leadership and physical well-being go hand in hand. A leader who is not physically fit will struggle to make sound decisions and withstand the pressures of governance. It is no wonder that during his time as president, Obasanjo was known for his work ethic and ability to travel extensively on national and international assignments without exhibiting signs of fatigue.

Beyond his physical fitness, Obasanjo represents resilience in all its forms. Having spent time in prison before emerging as Nigeria’s civilian president, his life is a story of rising from adversity. Despite facing numerous political battles, betrayals, and criticisms, he has remained unshaken, always reinventing himself and staying relevant in Nigeria’s national discourse.

Obasanjo’s ability to survive political storms, maintain his influence, and still command national and international respect at 88 is a lesson for Nigerians. In a country where many give up at the first sign of failure, Obasanjo’s life underscores the importance of perseverance and the ability to keep pushing forward despite challenges.

Many experts argue that having a strong sense of purpose contributes to longevity. Obasanjo has never been one to sit idly in retirement. He remains deeply involved in national affairs, advisory roles, diplomatic engagements, and intellectual pursuits. His continued relevance in Nigeria’s socio-political landscape has likely played a role in his longevity. Purpose gives people a reason to wake up every morning, and Obasanjo has never lacked it.

As Nigeria grapples with leadership challenges, economic difficulties, and social challenges, it is crucial to celebrate individuals like Obasanjo who have contributed significantly to the nation’s history and continue to do so in their old age. While he may not be perfect, no leader is, his commitment to Nigeria, discipline, and ability to defy age through a structured and active lifestyle are commendable.

Obasanjo’s 88th birthday and his impressive show of fitness should be a moment of inspiration for Nigerians. He is not only physically fit but also a fearless, blunt, and detribalized leader who has dedicated his life to national service. His life is a reminder that age is not just about the number of years lived but about how well those years are spent. Nigerians, young and old, should take inspiration from Obasanjo’s example and strive for personal discipline, national unity, and a life of purpose.

Ah, Nigeria, the land where politics is not just politics—it’s an action-packed Nollywood thriller, a Yoruba demon love triangle, an Igbo trader’s shrewd business deal, and a Hausa-Fulani kingmaker’s silent but deadly strategy all rolled into one. And here we are in Rivers State, watching Wike vs. Fubara, the political remix of Aki and Pawpaw fight for supremacy, except this time, there are real power plays at stake.

Oh Wike, you thought it was over? That your Abuja judges, including those Supreme Court justices, did all the heavy lifting for you? That once the Supreme Court confirmed Martin Amaewhule as the rightful Speaker, Fubara would just gree? Ha! Oga, this is Nigeria! Nobody gree for anybody! Fubara has the state courts, and he just played his hand like a proper Lagos big boy dodging rent payments.

The Supreme Court ruling must have felt like the final whistle to Wike’s camp. They probably popped champagne, thinking the game was over. “We got him!” they must have cheered, the way an Abuja politician celebrates after winning party primaries by spraying crisp mint Naira notes. But wait—did anyone remind them that Rivers State still has its own judiciary? Because while Wike’s loyal Assembly was flexing their new Supreme Court-backed power, Fubara’s commissioners and the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RISIEC) chairman, Justice Adolphus Enebeli (rtd), decided to show them that ‘Port Harcourt no be Lagos’. They walked straight into the state court and slapped them with a lawsuit like an Igbo trader demanding full payment. Their demand? A court order blocking the Assembly from interfering with their appointments and duties. And guess what? The state court gave it to them like a market woman selling fresh akara at dawn.

Now, Wike’s Assembly had been on a power trip, issuing a 48-hour ultimatum to Fubara to submit a fresh list of commissioners and the 2025 budget. They outright rejected the 19 commissioners he appointed, claiming they weren’t properly confirmed. But here’s the problem—Fubara never officially received their ultimatum, at least according to him. “Oh, you sent me a letter? Omo, no be me you send am. My bad, I must have missed it between all these court cases and political backstabbing.” Classic Lagos ‘soft work’ excuse. Meanwhile, Amaewhule and his lawmakers, feeling invincible, summoned the RISIEC chairman to explain why he dared to conduct an election that the Supreme Court nullified. Their plan was clear: strip Fubara of all authority and make him a governor in name only—like those ‘Instagram big men’ whose accounts are louder than their bank balance.

But Fubara, the real Port Harcourt first son, no dey carry last. His commissioners took their fight to the Rivers State High Court, arguing that the Assembly had no power to overturn their appointments. And oh, the irony—while Wike used the judiciary against Fubara in Abuja, Fubara just used the judiciary in Port Harcourt against Wike’s lawmakers. The court didn’t just grant the commissioners permission to serve the lawsuit—it ordered them to do it by pasting it on the gates of the Assembly Quarters. Imagine the lawmakers walking into work, only to see legal documents plastered like ‘house for rent’ signs in Ajegunle. How dare you, Amaewhule & Co.! You thought this would be a walk in the park? My brother, this is not Buga dance, this is survival!

Oh, and now that this is going on, that budget presentation just became an impossible mission. The Assembly had already warned Fubara to submit the 2025 budget, but how can he do that now? His Finance Commissioner, Emmanuel Frank-Fubara, can’t give him anything to present because the state court has frozen all actions related to the commissioners. The Assembly wanted to force Fubara’s hand, but now, they’re stuck too—no budget, no governance, just lawsuits flying like election campaign flyers. The Supreme Court may have put its stamp on Wike’s team, but the state court just locked down the treasury faster than EFCC chasing Yahoo boys.

This is where it gets even funnier. The Supreme Court had backed Wike’s Assembly, but now, Fubara has the local referees on his side. The game is now being played on two courts—the federal court and the state court. While Wike thought he had completely neutralized Fubara’s authority, he forgot that politics isn’t just about who controls Abuja. It’s about who controls the home front. Fubara, rather than fold, just turned Rivers State’s legal system into his own shield—like a proper Yoruba demon dodging relationship commitment.

So what happens next? Will Wike go running back to the Supreme Court for another ruling? Will he start searching for what is now known as the “Abuja Judge” to perform another legal miracle? Well, guess what? The law is clear—Abuja judges have no jurisdiction over state and local matters. Maybe the Supreme Court will find a way around that? Sorry, nop! Wike’s legal magic has hit a wall, and Fubara just dug in his trenches, like a proper Niger Delta militant waiting for government amnesty.

Will Fubara keep using the state judiciary as a roadblock to legislative interference? Will the lawmakers simply pretend they didn’t see the lawsuit pasted on their gate? And most importantly—who will dare to present the budget now? One thing’s for sure—this Rivers State saga is far from over. Wike thought the Supreme Court had sealed the deal, but Fubara just reminded him that governance isn’t won in a courtroom alone. The battle continues, and Naija people, we dey here for the drama! Grab your popcorn, your zobo, your suya—this one go long!

The Real Lesson: Nigeria’s Democracy is at a Crossroads

At the heart of all this political chess and courtroom battles is a deeper Nigerian problem—the rule of man over the rule of law. Every institution in this fight—whether it’s the Supreme Court, the Rivers State Judiciary, the House of Assembly, or the Governor’s office—has been dragged into a game of power and self-interest. Where is democracy in all of this?

Nigeria must learn that a politicized judiciary, a compromised legislature, and self-serving politicians do not grow democracy—they destroy it. When institutions serve personal ambitions rather than the people, democracy becomes an illusion, and governance becomes nothing more than a battlefield for the biggest political godfather. This is why states like Rivers continue to struggle with real governance, while their leaders play legal gymnastics.

The Senate, the judiciary, the executive, and the legislature must function as independent democratic bodies, not as extensions of one man’s political empire. Nigeria cannot grow if every election turns into a court case, if every political disagreement leads to power plays, and if every institution bends to the will of politicians rather than the constitution.

The lesson from Rivers State is clear—until we remove the rule of man and embrace the rule of law, until our judiciary stops being a political tool, until our lawmakers remember they serve the people, not their godfathers, Nigeria’s democracy will remain a fragile joke.

So while we all enjoy the drama, let’s not forget the real question: when will Nigeria stop being a political movie and start being a real democracy? Until then, grab your popcorn, your zobo, and your suya—this one go long.

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has hailed women for their invaluable contributions to the society, saying that “as pillars of our homes and considering their roles in our society, they are worthy to be celebrated.”

The Minister, in his goodwill message on this year’s International Women’s Day (IWD 2025), expressed appreciation to women, especially those in the FCT, for what he described as their unique roles.

Senior Special Assistant to the FCT Minister on Public Communications and Social Media, ere Olayinka, said in a statement in Milan, Italy, that “Under Wike, as the FCT Minister, women will always get their deserved recognition and positioning.”

He stressed that women are custodian of men and children, noting that their roles in the management and sustenance of the family institution, which is the basic unit in any society, are forever appreciated.

While specially appreciating women in the FCT, Wike urged that they continue to support the government, promising more dividends of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

He said; “To our women in the FCT, starting from the Minister of State for FCT, Dr. Mahmoud Mariya, and the first female Head of Service, Grace Adayilo, today gives us the opportunity to say we are grateful for the impact you make.

“For us, we will keep doing our best to make life more meaningful, especially for the women who are undoubtedly, the pillars of our homes.”

General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adeboye, has narrated how his earthly journey almost seven years ago.

Speaking at the annual Special Holy Ghost Service, themed “Joy Unspeakable,” Adeboye shared the experience to express gratitude for God’s benevolence towards him and the ministry.

Adeboye recounted how he fell critically ill during one of the church’s annual “Let’s-Go-A-Fishing” evangelism programmes.

“Seven years ago, during this same programme, my body broke down completely due to the terrible road conditions. For the first time in my life, I spent Christmas Day in bed. The devil was certain he had finally got me. I collapsed in Ilesha, and to bring me back to the camp, we had to charter a helicopter. I was too weak to travel by road—if I had, I would not have made it.

“However, just as I was about to be airlifted, local miscreants attempted to prevent the helicopter from taking off.

“They clung to the helicopter, and in the process, one of the windows got torn. But by God’s grace, I managed to reach the camp. I had an assurance that if only I could get to the camp, I would recover. Seven years later, I am still here! I want you to thank God for sparing my life. Please, praise Him for me—give Him glory, honor, and adoration!”

[DailyTrust]

Nigerian actor and content creator Yemi Elesho has opened up about his relationship with Grammy-winning singer Asake.

In a recent interview with streamer Jigan, Elesho revealed that his relationship with the singer dates back to their undergraduate days at Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife.

He stated that he has a long working relationship with Asake, noting that he used to give him a plate of rice and a bottle of Coca-Cola as performance fees for featuring in his movies and skits on campus.

“I used to give Asake a ₦700 plate of rice and a bottle of Coca-Cola as performance fees for him to feature in movies during our undergraduate days at OAU,” he recalled.

“He is my day-one, my very good friend. I have pictures and videos of our time together at OAU. We used to play celebrity football matches together back in the day.”

[DailyPost]

Navigating the business landscape in the UK as a Nigerian can be challenging but it also presents unique opportunities for those with the right strategy. From tapping into the growing demand for African cuisine to offering specialized consulting services.

Here are five clever business ideas that Nigerians abroad can explore to thrive in a competitive market:

1. Start An African foodstuff business 

The demand for African cuisine is steadily growing in the UK, especially among the Nigerian diaspora and other communities interested in African flavors. Starting an African foodstuff business involves importing and selling staple items like yams, plantains, palm oil, dried fish, and spices. With strategic sourcing, quality products, and effective marketing—especially through social media and community networks—this business can thrive by catering to both the nostalgia of Nigerians abroad and the curiosity of food enthusiasts eager to explore African cuisine.

2. Create a Nigerian restaurant

Launching a Nigerian restaurant in the UK offers an excellent opportunity to introduce authentic Nigerian flavors to a diverse audience. With a menu featuring classics like jollof rice, egusi soup, pounded yam, and suya, the restaurant can attract both the Nigerian diaspora and adventurous food lovers. By focusing on authentic recipes, quality ingredients, and a vibrant atmosphere that reflects Nigerian culture, this venture can stand out in a competitive market while celebrating the rich culinary heritage of Nigeria.

3. Offer research/student support services

Providing specialised academic assistance can be a highly rewarding business. By leveraging your expertise, you can offer personalized tutoring, research guidance, editing, and mentorship services tailored to Nigerian students and others navigating the UK education system. This venture not only helps bridge academic gaps but also builds a trusted platform for students seeking to excel in their studies.

4. Open a daycare centre

Establishing a daycare centre can be a fulfilling venture for Nigerians in the UK, tapping into the growing need for quality childcare services. By offering a safe, nurturing environment enriched with both local and Nigerian cultural elements, this business can cater to busy families seeking reliable and culturally aware care for their children.

5. Start a drop servicing fashion outlet

This business model lets you capitalize on the dynamic fashion scene without the need for heavy inventory investments. As a middleman, you curate a range of fashion services—such as custom design, tailoring, and styling—by partnering with skilled providers. By focusing on quality control, effective digital marketing, and a seamless customer experience, you can blend Nigerian-inspired aesthetics with modern UK trends to attract a niche clientele looking for unique, personalized fashion solutions.

Personnel of the Nigerian Navy attached to Forward Operating Base Escravos on Friday night raided the Oteghele community at Obodo Omadinho, Warri South West Local Government Area of Delta State, leading to the discovery and deactivation of two illegal refining sites.

The Commanding Officer of FOB Escravos, Navy Captain Ikenna Okoloagu, who led the operation told journalists that “the sites were laden with about 5,500 litres of stolen crude oil and 2,000 litres of illegally refined AGO contained in one oven, nine dug out pits and 28 polythene sacks.”

“The successful operation, which was in support of the ongoing Operation Delta Sanity II, was based on credible intelligence,” the Commanding Officer stated.

He continued, “The sustained fight against crude oil theft, pipeline vandalism and other acts of economic sabotage supports efforts to boost Nigeria’s daily crude oil production quantity.

“The operation further highlights the commitment of Forward Operating Base Escravos to achieve the dictates of the Strategic Directives of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral EI Ogalla Admiralty Medal, to root out all forms of illegalities within the maritime environment.”

Only two weeks ago, operatives of the FOB Escravos discovered and deactivated three illegal refining sites at Obodo in the Omadinho community, Warri South West LGA.

The sites were laden with about 3,700 litres of stolen crude oil and 2,600 litres of illegally refined AGO, contained in five ovens, 12 dug-out pits and 33 polythene sacks.

Meanwhile, the Commanding Officer of FOB Escravos, Navy Captain Ikenna Okoloagu, has reiterated his call on would-be economic saboteurs in the oil sector to desist from illegal acts, stressing that “the Navy Base would stop at nothing to deny them freedom of action and ensure that they are brought to justice.”

[Punch]