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Defunct Heritage Bank’s depositors with N5 million minimum balance have described as unacceptable the announcement by the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation’s (NDIC) that they will receive only partial payment of the uninsured sums.
They stated this at the weekend while reacting to the statement by the NDIC on their initial outcry to the National Assembly to prevail on the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to ensure their trapped funds were released without further delays.
The depositors, who had lamented the sufferings they and their loved ones were going through as a result of their inability to access their funds deposited in the defunct Heritage Bank, noted that the NDIC’s statement of March 30 that it would pay those in the category on pro-rata basis further confirmed their fears of lack of resources and underscored the urgency of the situation.
Speaking through their leader, Ibrahim Elisha, the aggrieved depositors emphasised that the NDIC’s pro-rata payment scheme was inadequate and exposed severe funding deficiencies that could threaten public confidence in Nigeria’s banking system.
“The dire financial predicament facing us demands swift, decisive intervention from the Presidency, National Assembly, and the CBN.
“The NDIC has demonstrated its inability to fully reimburse affected depositors, even after liquidating the bank’s assets. A recent press statement—clearly issued in response to mounting media scrutiny—has confirmed that depositors will receive only partial payments, an unacceptable outcome that underscores the urgency of the situation.
“The NDIC’s pro-rata payment scheme is inadequate, exposing severe funding deficiencies that threaten public confidence in Nigeria’s banking system. For nine months, depositors have endured broken promises, uncertainty, and financial hardship.
“In times of distress, the CBN has historically provided bailout funds to stabilise financial institutions and prevent systemic collapse. It has done so in notable cases, including a N460 billion allocation to First Bank for Heritage Bank prior to its liquidation; support for the merger between Providus Bank and Unity Bank to preserve financial stability; a N700 billion lifeline extended to Unity Bank with favorable repayment terms; and the acquisition of Keystone Bank’s shares to avert institutional failure.”
They argued that it was incomprehensible that the CBN would neglect urgent intervention in their matter.
“Its inaction jeopardizes the entire financial ecosystem, creating unnecessary hardship for depositors who entrusted their savings to a bank that was assured to be stable.
“Delays are unacceptable. The credibility of Nigeria’s financial sector is on the line. If immediate bailout funds are not provided, public trust in financial institutions will erode, investor confidence will falter, and global banking observers will question Nigeria’s commitment to economic stability,” they stressed.
The depositors urged President Bola Tinubu and the National Assembly to mandate the CBN to release the necessary funds to NDIC for full depositor reimbursement.
They insisted: “Time is of the essence. Prolonged hesitation will intensify the crisis and inflict irreversible reputational damage. The government must step in without delay to restore trust, and protect vulnerable depositors. The consequences of inaction are far too grave. Immediate action is non-negotiable.”
In a statement by its acting Head of Communications and Public Affairs, Hawwau Gambo, NDIC explained that the excess of the insured N5 million already reimbursed would be paid as liquidation dividends in accordance with statutory mandate.
The statement reads: “With the considerable progress recorded in the asset realisation, the corporation will declare the first tranche of liquidation dividends in April 2025 which will be paid to uninsured depositors on a pro-rata basis, in line with Section 72 of the NDIC Act 2023 on the priority of claims.
“For clarity, the referenced section states that: ‘Where an insured institution is unable to meet its obligations or suspends payment, or where its management and control have been taken over by the Central Bank of Nigeria following the revocation of its license, the assets of the insured institution shall be available to meet its deposit liabilities. Such deposit liabilities shall have priority over all other liabilities of the insured institution’.
“Consequently, other claimants of the failed bank, including creditors, and shareholders, will be considered for payment of liquidation dividends only after all depositors have been fully reimbursed.
“The NDIC wishes to reiterate its commitment to the safety of depositors’ funds in all licensed banks. Members of the public are enjoined to continue their banking activities without fear, as all other banks remain safe and sound.”
[TheNation]
As coalition talks to challenge President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 elections gain traction, northern stakeholders are pushing for southern aspirants to commit to a single-term agreement.
A source involved in the coalition negotiations, who requested anonymity due to lack of authorisation to speak on the issue, told The PUNCH that northern stakeholders are urging former Vice President Atiku Abubakar not to run.
The source added that most stakeholders believe that if all coalition leaders unite behind a southern candidate, President Tinubu can be defeated.
On March 20, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, Atiku, Labour Party’s Peter Obi, and former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, announced the formation of a coalition aimed at removing President Tinubu in 2027.
The debate about whether opposition parties should unite to challenge President Tinubu’s administration has been intensifying, with various political figures sharing different opinions.
Former Vice President Atiku has been a strong advocate for opposition unity, emphasising the importance of collaboration.
On March 8, he revealed his efforts to unite opposition groups and form a coalition to oust the APC.
Following El-Rufai’s switch from the APC to the Social Democratic Party on March 10, discussions among opposition leaders gained significant momentum.
Atiku and other opposition figures declared that the March 20 meeting marked the official launch of the coalition.
It was previously reported by Sunday PUNCH on March 23 that the negotiations among political leaders are being delayed due to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s ambitions and the zoning dispute.
The source mentioned that the stakeholders have multiple options to resolve all the concerns.
He stated, “There are numerous concerns among all stakeholders involved in the coalition negotiations, with the North-South issue being the primary concern.
“Most of us understand that if we field a competent and credible southern candidate, defeating President Tinubu would be much easier. Therefore, many stakeholders, especially those from the North, are urging Atiku to step down and allow the coalition to support a southern candidate who will serve a single term if elected.
“In fact, some of these stakeholders are insisting that any southern aspirant the coalition will support must agree to a single-term commitment.
These issues are emerging, but we are committed to addressing them as they arise and accommodating the many Nigerians who are fed up with the APC’s maladministration. Our goal is to ensure a fair process that represents the interests of the people and strengthens the unity of the coalition.”
When reached for comment, the National Secretary of the Coalition of United Political Parties, Peter Ahmeh, confirmed that the proposal for southern aspirants to sign a single-term agreement, along with other options, is under consideration by the stakeholders.
In an interview with our correspondent, Ahmeh stated that the opposition forces against President Tinubu are greater than those faced by former President Goodluck Jonathan in 2014.
He stated, “The signing of a single-term agreement by a southerner is part of what is on the table, but this has not been concluded yet. It has not reached a conclusion.
“Peter Obi and some other southern aspirants are involved. I believe that the decision will be reached in the next few weeks.
“There are many options on the table. People are bringing different permutations, but the fact still remains that you can’t put the cart before the horse. As soon as the agreement is reached, we will communicate it to the public.
“It is very obvious that more Nigerians have realised that this government is doing us more harm than good. So, quite a lot of Nigerians are joining the coalition. There are more opposition forces against this government than there were against former President Jonathan in 2014.
“So, I urge all coalition stakeholders and other opposition leaders to sustain this commitment so that we can come together to rescue this country from the failed APC.”
When reached for comment, former Vice President Atiku cautioned against speculation that could undermine the coalition negotiations.
In an exclusive interview with The PUNCH, Atiku, through his media aide, Paul Ibe, emphasised that any agreement made will be binding for all parties involved.
He stated, “The agreement must be between the stakeholders, and we cannot speculate about it because discussions are still ongoing. We don’t need to reach conclusions while discussions are still ongoing. Once an agreement is reached, it will be binding, but until then, we must refrain from drawing conclusions about the ongoing process.
“Yes, His Excellency, Atiku Abubakar is committed. What’s important for him is not to put the cart before the horse. His Excellency, like other leaders, believes that the only way to remove those who don’t mean well for our people and our country is by having a strong, united coalition.
“That coalition must be robust and strong enough to push forward. That is what they are working towards, and it is the most important goal, above all else.”
The National Chairman of the SDP, Shehu Gabam, corroborated that nationwide consultation is ongoing.
He stated, “I am not in a position to say anything now. I can’t tell you what we intend to do and how far we have gone, consultation is ongoing.
“We are doing more consultations. When we get to the bridge, we’ll cross it. But our consultations are ongoing nationwide. I am not going to disclose who is involved in the consultation and other details.”
However, the PDP National Youth Leader, Timothy Osadolor, criticised the push for a southerner to sign a single-term agreement, calling it premature.
In an interview with The PUNCH, Osadolor urged coalition stakeholders to keep the opportunity open for capable Nigerians.
He stated, “For me, I think it is premature to narrow this contest to the South. If we say a southerner must run, who are the southerners capable of running and dismantling this monstrosity called the APC government? There are just three people: former President Goodluck Jonathan, Obi, and I don’t think there is anyone as formidable as the Oyo State governor.
“I am not going to speak for all the other southerners who want to run, with all due respect to them. But I think we should allow Nigerians, irrespective of where they come from, to pursue their ambitions. That is the best way we can defeat the APC.
“And if among those who come forward, we unanimously agree to support one, regardless of the geopolitical region they hail from, it will be a collective democratic decision and no one will accuse the coalition of denying them their rights.”
Reacting to the scheming by the opposition, the APC Publicity Director, Bala Ibrahim, dismissed the coalition efforts, stating that the ruling party’s popularity among Nigerians is growing.
According to Ibrahim, the APC remains unfazed, and the party’s accomplishments will ultimately vindicate President Tinubu.
He stated, “Again, the ruling party, the APC is not bothered, because all the people involved (in the coalition) are people who have gone to the polls against the APC and lost.
“The APC, from the period it beat them to defeat, has not lost its membership but has been increasing its membership, and its tentacles of leadership are increasingly growing.
“The people will continue to realise the good dividends of democracy from the APC government, such that they will not regret voting for the party, nor will they think of giving up.
“So, the achievements of the ruling APC under President Tinubu will shame all opposition forces and their plans.”
[Punch]
Two Nigerian nationals and a Texan have been sentenced to federal prison for their involvement in a multi-million dollar tax refund fraud scheme that exploited stolen identities and laundered proceeds through both U.S. and foreign financial institutions.
Acting U.S. Attorney Abe McGlothin, Jr. announced the sentencing of Imafedia Adevokhai, 47, of Alpharetta, Georgia; Osazuwa Peter Okunoghae, 46, of Houston, Texas; and Michael Martin, 52, of Texarkana, Texas, following their guilty pleas in connection with the conspiracy.
Adevokhai, a Nigerian national, pleaded guilty to money laundering on February 15, 2023, and was sentenced on April 2, 2025, to 46 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Robert W. Schroeder, III. He was also ordered to pay $90,380.60 in restitution and $3,500 in forfeiture.
Okunoghae, another Nigerian national residing in Houston, received the harshest sentence of the trio — 78 months in federal prison — after pleading guilty to money laundering conspiracy in November 2019.
He was sentenced on January 13, 2022, and ordered to pay $451,117.63 in both restitution and forfeiture.
Martin, the only American among the convicted, pleaded guilty to conspiracy on February 14, 2023. He was sentenced to 18 months in prison on November 21, 2023, and ordered to pay $90,380.60 in restitution and $121,623.41 in forfeiture.
According to court records, the three men were involved in a sophisticated Stolen Identity Refund Fraud (SIRF) operation spanning multiple years. They used personal identifying information from dozens of victims to file fraudulent tax returns totaling nearly $5 million, causing a confirmed loss of over $390,000 to the U.S. Department of Treasury and Internal Revenue Service (IRS).
“The Eastern District of Texas is committed to prosecuting individuals who participate in schemes to steal personal information, prepare and file fraudulent tax returns, and launder the proceeds,” McGlothin said.
IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) agents uncovered the fraud after tracing a complex network of financial transactions involving multiple U.S. and foreign bank accounts.
Special Agent Christopher J. Altemus Jr., who leads the IRS-CI Dallas Field Office, praised the agency’s investigators, stating, “Their sentences should be a warning to anyone who would try to defraud the U.S. Government or prey on law-abiding taxpayers.”
The investigation revealed that Adevokhai primarily handled the preparation and submission of the fraudulent tax returns, while Okunoghae and Martin focused on laundering the proceeds — transferring funds through various accounts in a bid to obscure the source of the money.
The case dates back to a broader 2019 indictment that included individuals from three U.S. states and others based in Nigeria, pointing to a transnational fraud network.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nathaniel C. Kummerfeld and Sean Taylor.
Federal authorities reiterated that prosecuting SIRF crimes remains a top priority, as such schemes threaten the integrity of the U.S. tax system and drain billions from public coffers.
The federal government has ordered the management of federal higher institutions to publish their financial data and academic capacity before May 31, 2025.
Tunji Alausa, the minister of education, said all vice-chancellors, rectors, and provosts must provide their annual budgetary allocation, including “their personnel costs, overhead costs, and capital expenditure”.
The minister communicated this directive in a statement signed by Boriowo Folasade, the ministry’s spokesperson.
Alausa mandated school managements to also disclose data around their research grants “from foreign institutions, multilateral organisations, and development partners”.
The statement added that institutions must include the findings received from TETFund.
“The directive further mandates that institutions publish the total value of their endowment fund as recorded at the end of the previous year,” the statement reads in part.
“This figure, which reflects funds donated or invested for the institution’s long-term financial health, must be updated quarterly to ensure currency and transparency.
Alausa asked the institutions to reveal the current population of their undergraduate and postgraduate students to “determine their enrolment and institutional capacity”.
The ministry stated that the information must be presented in a clear, accessible, and user-friendly format before May 31.
“Websites should be structured in a way that allows the public, including parents, students, and stakeholders, to easily locate and understand these data points,” it added.
“All federal institutions are expected to comply fully with this directive and ensure that their websites are completely updated.
Alausa said the ministry will conduct periodic reviews of institutional websites and punish non-compliant institutions.
“This policy is part of a broader reform initiative aimed at strengthening public trust in the nation’s tertiary institutions, enhancing performance-based funding, and improving Nigeria’s global education indices,” he added.
[TheCable]
Socialite and entrepreneur, Obinna Iyiegbu, popularly called Obi Cubana, has said Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State would be re-elected for his second tenure.
Naija News reports that the Chairman of Cubana Group said Governor Soludo was touching every part of the state and giving it a new look.
Speaking on Sunday, in Awka, Obi Cubana stated that Governor Soludo has the hunger to position the state as the pride of Nigeria, West Africa and Africa.
He added that the Governor faces no opposition as it concerns his re-election bid.
His words: “I think for the first time in Anambra State there may not be contest, this is a walkover because the Governor is doing what he promised us in new Anambra State.
“When we were with him earlier he said that he’s not talking about what has been done but what has not been done, that means he’s hungry to do more from the Amabra State. He’s hungry to position this state to be in pride of Nigeria as a matter of fact West Africa and Africa.
“So we start the journey of a thousand masters from step. He is touching everything. The one that actually touched me is creating a fun city, thinking about the kids, thinking about the family. Right now you can take a trip to Anambra State with your entire family because there is place for the kids to play. I saw waterfalls, I saw rides, I saw those things unprecedented, unimaginable. This is Anambra for you. The new Anambra is possible under Chukwuma Soludo.”
We Are Not In The Senate To Fight Executive Arm Of Govt – Lawmakers Dismisses Rubber Stamp Claims
AFOLABI
The Spokesperson of the Senate, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, has dismissed claims that the National Assembly is a rubber stamp to the executive.
He argued that it is not the job of lawmakers to constantly oppose the executive, adding that the country’s legislators are partners in progress with the executive.
Adaramodu insisted that the National assembly will not oppose the executive needlessly simply because it does not want to be seen as rubber stamp.
The lawmaker, representing Ekiti South Senatorial District at the National Assembly stated this when he was responding to questions from newsmen at the weekend in his home town, Ilawe-Ekiti, Ekiti State.
He said, “What is the meaning of rubber stamp? Does it mean that if the executive brings appropriation bill which is budget because we don’t want to be called rubber stamp we should oppose it and throw it away? Does it mean that if the federal government wants to tar road, because we don’t want to be called rubber stamp we should throw it away? Does it mean that if the federal government is increasing allocation to the judiciary because we don’t want to be called rubber stamp we should throw it away? Does it mean that if the federal government is giving minimum wage because we don’t want to be called rubber stamp we then throw it away?. So, what is the meaning of rubber stamping?
“Now, one thing is this, we are not in the Senate with gloves in our hands to go and be knocking, and be beating and be fighting the executive or other arms of government. That is not our calling. Our calling is that we are partners in progress and while we are partners in progress we make laws, to execute is in the hands of the executive, to interprete is in the hands of the judiciary. We will not be making laws at the same time be interpreting it and be executing it. So, once we make our laws, what are the laws that we have made that have shown the Senate or the House of Representatives as an entity that is not focused? I have never seen any. We have established schools, higher institutions for that matter, we have done appropriation, we have done tax bills even the tax bills thing many people who were criticising initially are those people saying the same thing anymore? Because people did not even see the tax bills before they started criticising and we know that even biblically when we say tax everybody will just raise high brows.”
The Nigeria Police Force has withdrawn an earlier invitation extended to the 16th Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, in connection with the violent incident that marred Sallah celebrations in Kano State on March 30, 2025.
Sanusi was initially summoned to Abuja to provide his account of the events that led to the breakdown of law and order following the controversial horse-riding procession he led after Eid Prayers—an act the police say contravened prior security arrangements.
In a letter addressed to Emir, and signed by the Commissioner of Police, Olajide Ibitoye, on behalf of the Deputy Inspector General of Police, Force Intelligence Department, he was asked to appear at the Force Intelligence Department in Abuja on Tuesday, April 8, to answer some questions regarding the incident that occurred during the Sallah celebration within his domain.
However, in a statement released in Abuja on Sunday, the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, announced the withdrawal of the summons on Sanusi.
Adejobi said the decision to withdraw the invitation followed consultations with respected stakeholders and in line with the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun’s commitment to ensuring policing activities are not politicised or misinterpreted.
Instead, operatives of the Force Intelligence Department have been dispatched to Kano to obtain Sanusi’s statement discreetly.
Adejobi said, “The Nigeria Police Force has withdrawn its earlier invitation extended to Alhaji Aminu Sanusi in connection with the unfortunate incident that occurred in Kano State during the Sallah celebration on March 30, 2025.
“The invitation was initially issued to enable Alhaji Sanusi to provide his account of the events that led to the breakdown of law and order in the state.
“However, following advice from respected stakeholders and in line with the Inspector-General of Police’s commitment to ensuring that policing actions are not politicised or misinterpreted, the IGP has directed that the invitation be withdrawn.
“Instead, operatives of the Force Intelligence Department have been mandated on the instructions of the IGP to proceed to Kano to obtain Alhaji Sanusi’s statement.”
Adejobi said the IG had earlier deployed the Coordinating DIG for the North-West, DIG Abubakar Sadiq, to engage the two rival Kano Emirs—Alhaji Ado Bayero and Alhaji Lamido Sanusi—as well as the Kano State Government, in a bid to prevent parallel Durbar festivals and potential clashes.
He said, “Prior to the Sallah Day celebration, credible intelligence at the disposal of the police indicated that the two disputed Emirs in Kano State, Alhaji Ado Bayero and Alhaji Lamido Sanusi, were planning to hold separate Durbar festivals.
“The Durbar festival is a long-held tradition, which involves a recognised Emir riding on horses around the city in the company of his people.
“To forestall possible violence, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, deployed the Coordinating DIG for the North-West who also serves as the Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of the Force Criminal Investigation Department, DIG Abubakar Sadiq, to engage in dialogue with the two disputed Emirs in Kano and the Kano State Government. It was mutually agreed that no Durbar festival would be held to preserve peace and public safety and none of the disputed emirs would ride on horse on Sallah Day.”
Adejobi said despite this agreement, Sanusi, who had arrived at Eid grounds by car, mounted a horse after prayers and proceeded in a procession accompanied by local vigilantes.
He said, “This triggered a confrontation by youths in the community, leading to the tragic death of one Usman Sagiru, and leaving several others injured, a situation which the Force had earlier warned against and intended to avert by the emissaries sent earlier to both Alhaji Sanusi and Alhaji Ado Bayero.”
Adejobi said the police condemned the breach of agreement and vowed to continue their investigation with professionalism and impartiality.
He added that arrests had already been made in connection with the incident.
Plateau killings: ‘We just tested what communities are feeling’ - Plateau SSG escapes terrorists ambush
AFOLABI
The convoy of the Secretary to the Plateau State Government, Mr. Samuel Jatau, narrowly escaped an ambush by suspected terrorists on Sunday in Bokkos Local Government Area of the state.
The terrorists, believed to be planning fresh attacks on local communities, laid an ambush near Hurti community in the Monguna district.
The SSG was on a visit to Bokkos, which had been severely impacted by gunmen attacks the previous Wednesday.
As the convoy approached, the terrorists fired shots at the vehicle, prompting the security detail to return fire.
The attackers, overwhelmed by superior firepower, retreated into the nearby bush and surrounding mountains.
Our correspondent, who witnessed the incident, saw armed terrorists fleeing into the mountains after the skirmish.
Following the ambush, the SSG condemned the attack, describing it as an act of impunity and calling on the Federal Government to address the security concerns in the affected communities.
“I lack words to express my sorrow and anger. We just tested what these communities are feeling. We were almost ambushed. I was looking at my phone in the car when I suddenly heard gunshots. When I looked up, I saw two young men running into the bush, armed with guns,” the SSG said.
Describing the devastation in the area, Jatau continued, “We saw the destruction firsthand. Over 40 people were killed, homes were destroyed, and entire livelihoods were wiped out. The terrorists looted essential goods like 26 bags of potatoes worth N80,000 each from one home. These are peasant farmers; how do they recover from this? We must do better than this as a country.”
The SSG also highlighted the need for increased security in the region, which he said was a major concern for the state government.
“The Governor, Barrister Caleb Mutfwang, has directed that we bring relief materials to the affected communities and look at long-term solutions. We also need more security forces to ensure the safety of our people. While we appreciate the efforts of our security agencies, there is still much more to be done.”
In his remarks, the Village Head of Hurti, Maren Arondong, and the District Head of Monguna, Alo Raymond, expressed gratitude to the state government for the relief materials but voiced concerns over the persistent attacks that had left many residents displaced.
They called on the Federal Government to step in and prevent further attacks on their communities.
Meanwhile, the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, assured that the Federal Government was actively addressing the recent security breaches in Bokkos LGA.
Ribadu made the remarks on Sunday during an operational visit to Plateau State at the headquarters of Operation Safe Haven in Jos.
Ribadu explained that he was in Plateau following a directive from President Bola Tinubu to restore peace to the affected communities.
He commended the timely response of the security agencies in curbing the situation.
“We will ensure that all those arrested in connection with the recent attacks are brought to justice. The Federal Government is committed to improving security in the region, and we will not tolerate impunity,” Ribadu said.
He added that under President Tinubu’s administration, over 2,000 terrorists had been prosecuted or are facing prosecution.
Ribadu also urged Plateau residents to prioritise peace and unity, emphasising that disputes should be resolved through dialogue and not violence.
He praised the efforts of Governor Caleb Mutfwang in maintaining peace and promised that security measures would continue to improve in the state.
The NSA was briefed on the current security situation by the General Officer Commanding 3 Division of the Nigerian Army, Maj. Gen. Folusho Oyinlola, and the Commander of Operation Safe Haven during his visit.
As the federal and state governments continue to address the security challenges in Plateau, residents are hopeful that further steps will be taken to prevent more attacks and restore lasting peace to the region.
‘Such invitation was unnecessary’ - Peter Obi commends Police for withdrawing invitation to Sanusi
AFOLABI
Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, LP, has hailed the Nigeria Police Force for withdrawing the invitation extended to the Emir of Kano, Alhaji Muhammadu Sanusi.
Obi said the invitation was unnecessary and could have further heightened an already inflamed situation.
DAILY POST reported that the Emir was earlier summoned over an alleged murder during last Sunday’s Sallah festivities in Kano.
The incident reportedly occurred after Sanusi returned home from Eid prayers.
He had gone to the Eid prayer ground on foot but returned to the palace riding a horse.
However, following public outcry against the development, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, withdrew the invitation extended to Sanusi.
Egbetokun has in turn directed the Kano State Command of the force to obtain Sanusi’s statement regarding the incident.
Reacting to the development, the former Anambra State Governor, in a post on his X handle on Monday, hailed the decision to withdraw the invitation.
Obi suggested that a decentralized approach to the matter would encourage peace and public trust.
He said: “I would like to commend the Nigeria Police Force for the wise and timely decision it took to withdraw the invitation extended to His Royal Highness Muhammadu Sanusi II. In light of the current tensions within our society, such an invitation was unnecessary and could have further heightened an already inflamed situation.
“There is a fully functional police command in Kano, with sufficient capacity to address such matters within the State. That is precisely why we have senior-ranking officers, including Commissioners of Police and Zonal Assistant Inspectors-General (AIGs), to handle issues of this nature appropriately at the state and zonal levels.
“Once again, I appreciate the decision to withdraw the invitation. A decentralized approach would encourage peace and public trust. -PO”
House Of Reps Sends Fresh Warning To Rivers Administrator, Ibas, Gives Directives On Law Making
AFOLABI
The House of Representatives has issued a reminder to Rivers State Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (retd.), emphasizing that he lacks the constitutional authority to make laws or draft a budget for the oil-rich state.
Naija News reports that the House’s stance follows Ibas’s announcement of plans to prepare a new budget after the declaration of a state of emergency in the state in March.
In an interview with Punch on Sunday, the Deputy Spokesman for the House, Philip Agbese, clarified that the Sole Administrator does not have the mandate to perform legislative functions under the current circumstances.
“The Sole Administrator does not have the authority to carry out the National Assembly’s function of making laws under the current circumstances.
“The Speaker of the House, Tajudeen Abbas, is consulting with the leadership of the House to establish a committee to oversee the administrator’s activities and ensure that the interests of Rivers State are represented,” Agbese said.
Agbese further explained that the House of Representatives had already communicated their position on the administrator’s appointment and mandate to President Bola Tinubu.
He warned that if the Sole Administrator oversteps his constitutional boundaries, the House would take necessary actions, including the possibility of a vote of no confidence, to ensure adherence to the rule of law.
The political situation in Rivers State, stemming from a crisis between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the Rivers State House of Assembly, prompted President Tinubu to declare a state of emergency in March. This move resulted in the suspension of the governor and the state legislature for an initial period of six months.
In place of Governor Fubara, Tinubu appointed Vice Admiral Ibas as Sole Administrator. Last week, Ibas revealed his intention to formulate a new budget to manage the state’s affairs for the next six months.
While hosting a delegation of the Rivers State National Assembly caucus, Ibas reiterated his commitment to the people of the state and outlined his plan for the new budget.
He said, “Since the Supreme Court verdict on the state’s budget, we have acted swiftly and decided to put together a new budget that reflects our commitment to healthcare, education, social services, and continued infrastructural development.”
Ibas emphasized that the new budget would focus on creating job opportunities and investing in key sectors such as agriculture, infrastructure, and technology.
“We understand the urgency of this initiative, and we are committed to ensuring that they are implemented without delay,” he added.
The Sole Administrator stressed that the budget would be transparent, inclusive, and expedited to improve the lives of the citizens. He also assured that the process would not lose any more time in making the necessary investments in the state’s future.
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The Department of State Services (DSS) in Osun State has reportedly summoned the Organising Secretary of the state chapter of the Take It Back (TIB) Movement,
Olasunkanmi Mary Oluwatosin, for questioning regarding the upcoming nationwide protest scheduled for April 7.
Naija News reports that the Take-It-Back Movement has firmly stated that it will proceed with the planned protest on Monday, which aims to highlight what they perceive as the “authoritarianism of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, violations of human rights, and the improper application of the Cybercrime Act.”
This protest is titled “Nationwide Protest Against Bad Governance and Suppression of Free Speech.”
According to SaharaReporters, a DSS official named Akin reached out to Oluwatosin through a WhatsApp message, requesting her presence at the DSS office in Osogbo, the state capital.
Oluwatosin informed journalists late Sunday evening that a DSS agent had contacted her on Saturday to inquire about the details of the protest.
She also mentioned that she received a call from an unknown number on Sunday, asking her to come to the DSS office for a “chat.”
When she inquired about the purpose of the invitation, the caller reportedly indicated that it was merely for a “conversation.”
“One DSS official called me yesterday and asked for details about our protest tomorrow, but I told her I wasn’t in town and knew nothing about the protest.
“Another number called me this evening, saying they wanted to see me in their office. When I asked why, the person said they just wanted to chat, but I told them I wasn’t in town,” she said.
Meanwhile, the National Coordinator of the TIB Movement, Sanyaolu Juwon, was said to have attempted to contact the DSS officer via WhatsApp, but the message remained undelivered at the time this report was filed
“Hello Mr. Akin. My name is Sanyaolu Juwon. I am the National Coordinator of the Take It Back Movement. One of our comrades called me from Osun that you have been harassing and intimidating her. I’d like to remind you that the right to protest is constitutionally guaranteed. You are advised to please desist from this,” Juwon reportedly wrote to the secret police.
A former presidential candidate and chieftain of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Adewole Adebayo, has revealed that a long list of politicians are set to join the party ahead of the 2027 presidential elections.
Adebayo disclosed that the SDP is in talks with several politicians and is ready to welcome them all ahead of the 2027 elections.
Naija News reports the former presidential candidate specifically identified the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, as well as his colleague in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, as part of the prominent names currently in discussion with the SDP and expected to join the party soon.
“People are joining my party, and we are welcoming them. You can see how active I am in welcoming them. The only little issue we have with some of them is to change the culture where if you have not been in an environment where rules are taken seriously.
“Some of them are doing some Boy Scouts, black market operations, we are dealing with that. But we welcome them into the party. All these people you have mentioned, El-Rufai, Atiku Abubakar, even former Governor Peter Obi are coming. A lot of people are coming, and we will welcome them,” the SDP chieftain said on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics.
Asked by the anchor to clarify his statement on Obi, Adebayo emphasized that the former Anambra State Governor is in talks to join the SDP.
He also emphasized the readiness of the party to unseat President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 elections.
“Supposedly, until somebody joins, we don’t know. But people have told me, and the Financial Secretary (SDP) has also informed me, that they are talking. So we will welcome everybody.
“Surely, when we come in, and we don’t become a tower of Babel; if we come in, follow the rules and allow one person to emerge transparently, clearly, without cheating, without criminality the way we did our convention in 2022, people applauded us transparently, no court case, no crisis, no allegations.
“If they can stick to our culture and follow the way we do in the SDP and produce a good alternative to Nigerians, we are going to manifestly defeat the APC and retire President Tinubu to Lagos or wherever he chooses in Nigeria,” he said.
Naija News reports that despite talks of an opposition coalition ahead of the 2027 elections, both Peter Obi and Atiku Abubakar have shut down rumours of dumping their current political parties.
The Labour Party (LP) has raised an alarm over what it describes as an alleged plot by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) to storm its national secretariat in Abuja with hired thugs, in collaboration with factions of the party.
The LP’s National Secretary, Umar Farouk Ibrahim, made the claim in a statement issued on Sunday.
The statement alleges that the NLC was working alongside the Nenadi Usman-led National Caretaker Committee (NCC) and the National Transition Committee (NTC) to carry out the planned invasion.
According to the statement, the planned action—allegedly funded by the Abia State government and an unnamed party leader—is expected to begin on Monday, April 7.
Ibrahim warned that the attempt would involve the forceful entry into party offices, the theft of sensitive documents, and the vandalization of party property.
The statement reads in part: “It has come to the knowledge of the leadership of the LP that the NLC is mobilising its members, hired thugs and miscreants… to invade the National Secretariat of our party.”
The LP accused the NLC of overstepping its bounds as a labour union by allegedly interfering in partisan political matters, which it said contravenes the legal framework establishing the congress.
The party referred to the April 5 Supreme Court ruling, insisting it affirmed that party leadership matters are internal affairs to be handled by political parties themselves.
“There is nowhere in the judgment that gave the NLC or any caretaker committee the authority to take over the leadership of the Labour Party,” the statement added.
The party reaffirmed that Barrister Julius Abure remains the duly elected National Chairman, having emerged from the March 2024 national convention.
It also called on security agencies, including the Nigeria Police and Department of State Services (DSS), to intervene and prevent any breach of peace in the Federal Capital Territory.
- Group to hit streets kicking against anti-cyber security law, Rivers emergency, others
- ‘Action subversive on Police National Day’
A showdown is likely today between the police and a group of protesters in Lagos, Abuja and some other capital cities, such as Ibadan and Port Harcourt.
A massive deployment of security men is expected across the country.
The police warned that it would not take kindly to a protest it described as “potential unrest or confrontation” planned by the “Take it Back Movement”.
It described the action as that of “subversive elements” acting on the pretence of economic hardship.
The Take it Back Movement group said the protest is against cyberbullying and the emergency declaration in Rivers State.
It added that it opposes the “illegal” extension of tenure for Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun.
The group said its members would converge under the bridge in Ikeja, Lagos, the frontage of the National Assembly complex in Abuja, Isaac Boro Park in Port Harcourt and Iwo Road in Ibadan.
While the police cautioned against the protest, which it described as sabotage having fallen on National Police Day, one of the organisers, Mr. Omoyele Sowore, a politician, insisted last night that the protest would go on.
Police spokesman Olumuyiwa Adejobi, an Assistant Commissioner, said: “The Nigeria Police Force acknowledges the constitutional right of citizens to peaceful protest.
“However, given the significance of April 7 as National Police Day, we urge the organisers to reconsider the timing of their planned demonstration.
“This is a day of national reflection and recognition for the force, and it is important that the occasion is not overshadowed by potential unrest or confrontation.
“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 horns 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 organisers to shelve this planned protest as it is ill-timed and mischievous.”
The police spokesman added that the National Police Day event would host high-profile dignitaries from within and outside the country, including foreign Inspector-Generals of Police and diplomats.
Sowore said there was no going back. Rather, he insisted it was the police that should reconsider their programme.
He said: “Regardless, tomorrow’s (today) protest must go on across Nigeria. Nothing can stop the movement of the people!”
‘Protest is subversive’
The Lagos Police Command also issued a similar warning in a statement by its Deputy Commissioner Tijani O. Fatai.
It said: “Intelligence report at the Command disposal reveals a plan by some subversive groups parading themselves as Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), and other misguided anti-government forces, to incite nationwide protest on 7th April 2025 aimed at drawing the attention of the government to their perceived prevailing high cost of living and free speech suppression.
“Furthermore, the groups have flooded the social media platforms with narrations geared towards winning public sympathy, discrediting the government and galvanising support for the protest.
“Experience has shown that criminals may want to seize the opportunity of the protest to cause mayhem, particularly to launch attacks on government facilities and opposition leaders to disrupt socio-economic activities in the state, amongst others.
“Consequently, the Commissioner of Police has ordered security measures to be beefed up around critical installations and other strategic locations across the state in order to forestall any untoward development before, during and after the proposed protest.
“This is to ensure all law-abiding citizens go about their normal business throughout the period unhindered; to ensure free flow of traffic in the state throughout the period of the protest; to ensure the security of lives and property in the state before, during and after the protest.
“Forces available: Manpower for this operation will be drawn from the Department of Operations, Ikeja; State Criminal and Intelligence and Investigation Department (SCIID), Yaba; Area Command Headquarters, Rapid Response Squad, Alausa; Task Force, Oshodi; PMF 2 Keffi; 20/22 PMF Ikeja; 23 Keffi; 43 Lion Building; 49 PMF Epe; 63 PMF Ikorodu; Counter Terrorism Unit Base 2, Special Protection Unit Bases 2, 16, 17 Lagos, and Anti Bomb Disposal Base 23, Lagos.”