Super Eagles Head Coach, Eric Chelle has officially announced his final roster of 23 players for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches against Rwanda and Zimbabwe.

Eric Chelle’s Super Eagles selection reflects a blend of experienced internationals and emerging talents, aimed at securing Nigeria’s place in the upcoming World Cup.

The squad features goalkeepers Stanley Nwabali from Chippa United in South Africa and Kayode Bankole of Remo Stars. Both goalkeepers have demonstrated commendable skill and resilience in their respective leagues.

In defence, the roster includes seasoned players such as William Ekong, representing Al-Kholood FC in Saudi Arabia, along with Calvin Bassey from Fulham FC and Olaoluwa Aina of Nottingham Forest, both playing in the competitive English Premier League.

The squad also welcomes Bruno Onyemaechi from Olympiacos in Greece, Bright Osayi-Samuel of Fenerbahce in Turkey, and the Czech Republic-based defender Igoh Ogbu from SK Slavia Prague, who all contribute diverse experiences to the backline.

The midfield is fortified by prominent talents such as Wilfred Ndidi of Leicester City and Alex Iwobi from Fulham FC, both known for their tactical intelligence and playmaking abilities.

They are joined by Raphael Onyedika (Club Brugge, Belgium), Alhassan Yusuf Abdullahi (New England Revolution, USA), and Joseph Ayodele-Aribo of Southampton FC, adding depth and creativity to the midfield. Notably, home-based midfielder Papa Daniel Mustapha of Niger Tornadoes also makes the final squad, reflecting Chelle’s commitment to integrating local talent.

The attacking front boasts a formidable lineup featuring the likes of Victor Osimhen, currently playing for Galatasaray FC in Turkey, and Samuel Chukwueze of AC Milan in Italy, both of whom are pivotal in their clubs’ attacking strategies.

Also included are Ademola Lookman of Atalanta FC and Victor Boniface of Bayer Leverkusen in Germany, alongside Simon Moses (FC Nantes, France), Sadiq Umar of Valencia FC in Spain, and Tolu Arokodare from KRC Genk, Belgium.

The Super Eagles will face group C leaders Rwanda in a crucial match scheduled for Friday, March 21, in Kigali. This will be followed by a home game against the Zimbabwe Warriors at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, set for four days later. The Super Eagles aim to secure vital points in these encounters to enhance their chances of qualifying for the World Cup.

List Of 23 Super Eagles For Rwanda, Zimbabwe Games

Goalkeepers:
– Stanley Nwabali (Chippa United, South Africa)
– Amas Obasogie (Singida Blackstars, Tanzania)
– Kayode Bankole (Remo Stars)

Defenders:
– William Ekong (Al-Kholood FC, Saudi Arabia)
– Bright Osayi-Samuel (Fenerbahce SK, Turkey)
– Bruno Onyemaechi (Olympiacos FC, Greece)
– Calvin Bassey (Fulham FC, England)
– Olaoluwa Aina (Nottingham Forest, England)
– Igoh Ogbu (SK Slavia Prague, Czech Republic)

Midfielders:
– Wilfred Ndidi (Leicester City, England)
– Raphael Onyedika (Club Brugge, Belgium)
– Alhassan Yusuf Abdullahi (New England Revolution, USA)
– Alex Iwobi (Fulham FC, England)
– Joseph Ayodele-Aribo (Southampton FC, England)
– Papa Daniel Mustapha (Niger Tornadoes)

Forwards:
– Samuel Chukwueze (AC Milan, Italy)
– Victor Osimhen (Galatasaray FC, Turkey)
– Ademola Lookman (Atalanta FC, Italy)
– Victor Boniface (Bayer Leverkusen, Germany)
– Simon Moses (FC Nantes, France)
– Sadiq Umar (Valencia FC, Spain)
– Nathan Tella (Bayer Leverkusen, Germany)
– Tolu Arokodare (KRC Genk, Belgium)

The House of Representatives has instructed the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) to mandate internet service providers to block access to all websites that host pornographic and obscene content.

Naija News reports that the directive also mandates the NCC to compel all internet service providers to prevent access to such content without delay.

The motion, sponsored by Dalhatu Tafoki, an All Progressives Congress (APC) lawmaker from Katsina State, was debated and passed during Tuesday’s plenary session.

While presenting the motion, Tafoki highlighted that cyber pornography had become a growing global issue and that Nigeria had yet to take sufficient measures to address it.

He emphasized that Nigeria is a “highly religious country” where major faiths prohibit nudity and obscene content.

Tafoki further pointed out that several nations across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East had enacted strict laws banning pornography.

Citing warnings from psychologists and sociologists, the lawmaker stressed the potential dangers of pornography, stating that it could lead to adultery, prostitution, and addiction.

“Renowned psychologists and sociologists around the world have issued stern warnings on the psychological, sociological, and mental consequences of viewing pornographic content,” he said.

Following a voice vote conducted by Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, the motion received widespread support from lawmakers.

The House also instructed the NCC to impose penalties on any internet service provider that fails to comply with the directive.

The House of Representatives has directed the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to immediately halt the implementation of its newly introduced ATM transaction charges and the removal of free withdrawals for customers using other banks’ ATMs.

Naija News reports that this decision was reached on Tuesday after lawmakers adopted a motion of urgent public importance sponsored by Marcus Onobun (PDP, Edo).

The House insisted that the policy be suspended until the relevant committees engage with the apex bank.

While presenting the motion, Onobun highlighted that the CBN recently amended its guidelines under Section 10.7 of the CBN Guide to Charges by Banks, Other Financial, and Non-Bank Financial Institutions.

He explained that the new policy increases ATM withdrawal fees and eliminates free withdrawals for customers using ATMs outside their bank, thereby adding to the financial burden of Nigerians.

According to him, Section 10.7 of the guide was last reviewed in 2019, reducing ATM withdrawal charges from ₦65 to ₦35 per transaction.

He stated, “According to this new policy, customers withdrawing from their bank’s ATMs will continue to enjoy free withdrawals. However, a fee of ₦100 per ₦20,000 withdrawal will be applied to customers from other banks transacting at ATMs within bank premises.”

He further noted, “Similarly, customers from other banks using ATMs located outside the bank’s premises, such as malls and marketplaces, will be charged ₦100 plus an additional ₦500 surcharge.”

Onobun expressed concern that Nigerians are already struggling with multiple economic challenges, including inflation, rising fuel prices, increased electricity tariffs, and excessive banking fees, all of which are reducing disposable income and negatively affecting citizens’ financial well-being.

He warned that “the imposition of additional ATM withdrawal charges will further discourage financial inclusion, especially for low-income earners, contradicting the CBN’s financial inclusion agenda.”

The lawmaker also pointed out that despite the banking sector recording substantial profits, consumers continue to face excessive charges without any significant improvement in service quality or banking infrastructure.

“The government’s role includes protecting citizens from exploitative financial practices that could worsen economic hardship,” he concluded.

The high-profile trial of Naomi Silekunola, former queen of the Ooni of Ife; Oriyomi Hamzat, owner of Ibadan-based Adigbo FM; and Abdullahi Fasasi, principal of Islamic High School, Bashorun has taken an interesting turn, as the court adjourned proceedings for two weeks, placing the fate of the accused in limbo.

The trio stands accused in an 18-count charge brought by the Oyo State Government over the devastating stampede that claimed at least 35 children’s lives during an end-of-year party hosted by Silekunola on December 18, 2024.

On Monday, March 10 2025, at the Oyo State High Court, Ring Road, Ibadan, Chief Justice Ladiran Akintola halted proceedings, ruling that the accused must first address the emotional and financial toll on the victims’ families before the case can proceed.

The unexpected adjournment followed a request from the defendants, who sought time to facilitate compensation for the bereaved families and those injured.

Oyo State Government spokesperson, Abiodun Aikomo, confirmed that while the trial was set to begin, the defense requested a delay to settle with victims’ families.

Representing Silekunola, senior lawyer Musibau Adetunmbi (SAN) argued that postponement was necessary for an amicable resolution, revealed that negotiations were already in motion and expressed confidence that compensation would be completed within the given timeframe.

The case traces back to December 2024, when a children’s funfair took a tragic turn, ending in a deadly stampede at the venue’s parking lot.

Naomi,Oriyiomi and Fasasi seen in court on February 18, 2025, now face the weight of the law as they battle murder, manslaughter, conspiracy to commit criminal negligence, and multiple related charges under the Criminal Code, CAP 38, Vol II, Laws of Oyo State, 2000.

With the trial now stalled for two weeks, all eyes remain on the court’s next move.

The National Chairman of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Shehu Musa Gabam, has revealed that more prominent politicians are on the verge of joining the party, following the recent defection of former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Gabam, speaking in an interview with Trust TV on Monday, said El-Rufai’s move had triggered a wave of interest from top politicians across party lines, particularly in Kaduna State.

While Gabam declined to reveal specific names, party insiders have hinted that former Ekiti State Governor, Kayode Fayemi, and ex-Osun State Governor, Rauf Aregbesola, are among those reportedly considering a move to the SDP.

El-Rufai had recently held closed-door meetings with Aregbesola and Pastor Tunde Bakare in Lagos, further fuelling speculation.

He had also visited former President Muhammadu Buhari and ex-Vice President Atiku Abubakar, raising questions about broader political realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections.

However, Fayemi has denied any plans to dump the APC.

In a statement on Tuesday, he said, “My attention has been drawn to a story circulating on several online platforms regarding my defection from the All Progressives Congress (APC). As I have had cause to state in the past, I am a card-carrying foundation member of the APC, and this position has not changed.”

He, however, criticized the APC’s internal democracy, stating, “While I have been at the vanguard of the demand for greater internal democracy and inclusion in the ruling party, I believe it is still not late for our party to change course and move towards greater inclusion and internal democracy.”

SDP Will Not Merge With Other Parties – Gabam

Meanwhile, Gabam reiterated that the ongoing wave of defections to the SDP is part of a broader push to redefine Nigeria’s democracy and ensure better governance for the people.

He dismissed suggestions that the SDP was planning a merger with other opposition parties, saying:

Gabam said, “The SDP is not in alignment with the proponents of a merger of political parties. It is a recipe for chaos. What we are doing is strengthening our structure at the grassroots level.”

He also clarified that El-Rufai’s defection is not necessarily tied to a presidential ambition, stating that all aspirants within the SDP must go through a transparent grassroots process before securing party endorsements.

“The party’s philosophy is entrenched in grassroots democratic participation. Every potential aspirant must go through the process from the grassroots level to prevent imposition,” he said.

The Pat Utomi-led National Consultative Front (NCFront) has welcomed Nasir El-Rufai back to the opposition, describing him as a strong and influential figure in the ongoing efforts to form a mega coalition ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In its reaction, NCFront’s Director-General, Olawale Okunniyi, hailed El-Rufai’s political experience and coalition-building skills, particularly his role in the formation of the APC, as a valuable asset to the opposition’s strategy.

Former governor of Kaduna State, yesterday announced his defection from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the Social Democratic Party (SDP).

Speaking to Punch, Okunniyi highlighted El-Rufai’s negotiation abilities, northern political influence, and governance experience as critical factors in shaping the opposition’s game plan.

He said, “El-Rufai, coming from the North and being a former governor who previously collaborated with General Muhammadu Buhari, is a significant force. He cannot be underestimated.

“He has successfully built coalitions before, facilitated high-level discussions, and played a vital role in promoting an alternative political platform. His experience makes him a formidable and influential force.”

Opposition Plans To Finalize Coalition By July

Okunniyi revealed that ongoing discussions to select the coalition’s preferred political platform would be finalized by July.

He noted, “The SDP is one of the platforms under consideration, but discussions are still ongoing to determine the most viable option.”

He further stated that El-Rufai’s defection aligns with broader efforts to create a credible alternative to the ruling APC.

According to Okunniyi, “It appears that El-Rufai and others within the APC are working to establish their opposition platform, enabling them to actively engage in the ongoing consultations and discussions aimed at creating a mega coalition party to challenge the ruling party.”

National Political Summit Scheduled For July

Okunniyi disclosed that a national political summit for opposition stakeholders is scheduled for July, where a final decision on the coalition’s platform and structure will be made.

He said, “The decision will be made through a bottom-up approach, ensuring that the chosen party reflects the interests of all involved stakeholders.”

Okunniyi emphasized that the opposition coalition is expected to take shape in the coming months through extensive consultations and consensus-building.

“One certainty is that whichever platform is ultimately chosen must undergo rebranding and restructuring to accommodate the diverse interests involved in these negotiations,” he stated.

While forming a new political party remains an option, Okunniyi noted that the coalition could also adopt an existing opposition party, including Labour Party (LP), Social Democratic Party (SDP), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), African Democratic Congress (ADC) and New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP).

He added that the success of this coalition depends on aligning with a credible opposition platform that reflects the interests of all stakeholders.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on political leaders across the country to channel more resources and policies toward the poor and vulnerable, emphasizing the need for selfless service.

Speaking at an Iftar gathering on Monday night in Abuja, Tinubu hosted governors, members of the Federal Executive Council (FEC), Service Chiefs, and selected Heads of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) at the State House.

Addressing his guests, Tinubu urged leaders to work in the interest of the people, stressing that leadership is a responsibility, not a privilege.

“I thank you all for responding to this invitation. You honoured it out of respect, not because you don’t have enough to eat or share,” he said, as quoted in a statement by his spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga.

Tinubu highlighted that government efforts are crucial in meeting citizens’ expectations, noting that economic and human development indicators have shown positive improvements.

The President credited economic reforms to the collective efforts of the Federal Executive Council (FEC) and leaders at the subnational level.

“I recall in our first FEC meeting, I said we were going to work hard to fetch water from a dry well. We are still working hard to ensure that there is water to drink and that we spend money, not the people.

“You, the leaders at the subnational levels, are also doing all you can to spend money, not the people,” Tinubu stated.

He urged leaders to govern with posterity in mind, ensuring that history remembers them positively.

“Look at yourselves as navigators that will bring the country to the promised land. Standing here as President is a great honour, and you can’t trade it.

“Continue doing what you are doing. And do more for the people,” he added.

The Chairman of the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF) and Governor of Kwara State,Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, commended Tinubu for his bold and decisive economic reforms.

Similarly, Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia, who led the Christian prayers, noted the significance of Muslims and Christians fasting simultaneously, calling it a sign of unity.

Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, acknowledged that the prices of goods and foodstuffs have been gradually decreasing, attributing it to Tinubu’s economic policies.

Fagbemi also noted that the reforms had positively impacted livelihoods, praising the President’s courage in implementing tough but necessary decisions.

Dignitaries present at the Iftar dinner include Vice President Kashim Shettima, the Chief of Staff to the President, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila and Minister and cabinet members.

Among the state governors in attendance are Dr. Alex Otti of Abia State, Pastor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom, Bala Mohammed of Bauchi, Hyacinth Alia of Benue , Babagana Zulum of Borno, Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta, Monday Okpebholo of Edo, Muhammad Yahaya of Gombe, Umar Namadi of Jigawa and Uba Sani of Kaduna,

Others are Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano, Nasir Idris of Kebbi, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara, Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa, Mohammed Bago of Niger, Dapo Abiodun of Ogun, Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo, Duoye Diri of Bayelsa and Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State.

Also in attendance were heads of key government agencies: the Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria, Professor Abdullahi Mukhtar Muhammad, the Acting Controller General of the Nigerian Correctional Service, Sylvester Ndidi Nwakuche, the Comptroller General of the Federal Fire Service, Jaji Abdulganiyu, and the Comptroller General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Bashir Adeniyi.

The Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, NNPCL, Abba Kyari and the Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, Farouk Ahmed.

The Peoples Democratic Party and the Rivers State Government on Monday kicked against the call by a faction of the All Progressives Congress for the resignation or impeachment of Governor Siminalayi Fubara.

The development comes as Fubara said he would not be deterred by threats from those pushing to disrupt governance through the instigation of political crises in the state.

He warned against any act of lawlessness and insisted that his path would remain focused on ensuring peace.

“I want to say to our teeming supporters, I know some of you, your spirits are high, some others, your spirits are low. 

“I want to assure you, it doesn’t matter what the situation might be today, we will come up again stronger and better.

“Please continue to follow my footstep, and that footstep remains the path of peace. We need it because if anything happens, we are the greatest losers,” Fubara declared.

The APC faction loyal to former Governor Nyesom Wike had called for the governor’s resignation or impeachment, citing multiple alleged offences.

The opposition party, led by Chief Tony Okocha, also dismissed the governor’s invitation to a reconciliatory meeting with the Martin Amaewhule-led House of Assembly as a “Greek gift.”

Fubara, in a letter signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr Tammy Danagogo, on Sunday, invited the lawmakers for dialogue on Monday, following the Supreme Court’s ruling that validated the 27 legislators as the authentic Assembly members.

Reacting to the invitation on Sunday, one of the lawmakers, Isaiah Opuende, who represents Akuru-Toru Constituency 2, blasted Fubara for using social media channels.

Calling for Fubara’s resignation, Okocha, in his address to journalists in Port Harcourt on Monday, accused the governor of disrespecting President Bola Tinubu and failing to implement the eight-point resolution earlier set to resolve the crisis.

He wondered if the governor had bent over backwards after a protracted grandstanding.

The APC chieftain described Fubara as “clueless” and insisted that the only viable option left for him was to either resign honourably or face impeachment.

“The options before Siminalayi Joseph Fubara are two: he should honourably resign or be impeached because he has run the state aground and disrespected Mr President.

“The invitation to the lawmakers is a Greek gift. The Supreme Court judgment is final. There is nothing anybody can do about it.

“The only option available to the governor now is for him to resign or be impeached. And he should be honourable about it,” he said.

He stated, “The APC remains the major opposition party in Rivers State. We are the voice of the voiceless. When we said Siminalayi Fubara was clueless, we were not joking. The evidence is clear.

“The governor behaves like a saint, but he is a dangerous snake. His meeting agenda with the lawmakers is puerile. Is he inviting them to discuss the Supreme Court judgment?

“And why was the invitation letter signed by the Secretary to the State Government, instead of the governor himself? It’s an aberration. As far as I’m concerned, it is a Greek Gift.”

Chief Okocha noted that the party would not stand idly by and watch the governor running the state aground with his style of governance.

He warned that the governor’s continued stay in office could lead to political instability in the state, likening the situation to a “keg of gunpowder” ready to explode.

Responding, the Rivers State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Joseph Johnson, dismissed Okocha’s comments, stating that he lacked the authority to speak on behalf of the APC leadership. Johnson described Okocha as an ‘impostor’ whose removal as the state APC chairman had been confirmed by the court.

He further stated that the call for impeachment was baseless, as the governor had demonstrated his commitment to peace by reaching out to the lawmakers for dialogue.

The commissioner stated, “I’ve decided not to be reckoning with what Chief Okocha says because he’s not a consistent person. He doesn’t have any moral grounds to make that call (impeachment) because as far as the law is concerned, he’s an impostor.

“A Rivers State High Court has long removed him from office. So, I think that he’s dangerously looking for relevance and I don’t think that he deserves it from this government.”

Speaking further, he said “This is not the first time, at some point he said he was going to ask members of his party who were in the House to invoke an impeachment proceeding. Not too long, he recanted

“So he’s not a man of his word. Nobody is talking about impeachment.

“An impeachment is not even on the table. The government is open to discussing with the Assembly members.”

The PDP described Okocha’s stance as “hallucination.”

In an interview with The PUNCh, the PDP’s National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, accused the APC faction of attempting to create unnecessary political tension.

He asked the opposition party in the state to focus on addressing national challenges, rather than fuelling political crises in the state.

Ologunagba called on Okocha to deal with the issues concerning his chairmanship of the APC in Rivers and leave Fubara out of his troubles.

He said, “The man you are talking about has a lot of issues to deal with, one of which is his claim to the chairmanship of the APC in Rivers State.

“All we can say is that the man is hallucinating. He is in a dream world and we can’t stop him from dreaming.

“However, he must be told that impeachment is a constitutional process and not what you just sleep and dream about.

“Instead of Governor Fubara, Okocha should help his party think of how to deal with the hardship they have brought on Nigerians.

“Nigerians are being made to pay exorbitant tariffs in energy and telecoms and life has never been this hellish. This is what should bother him and his party, the APC.”

Ologunagba added that Fubara remained popular among the people of Rivers State.

“He has no locus standi to tell Governor Fubara to resign because the Rivers people are very happy with him.

“They are proud of the work he is doing. In a very short period, he has impacted the people of Rivers State in a manner that deserves our collective applause.

“Governor Fubara was elected to lead his people and he is doing that excellently,” he added.

In an exclusive interview with The PUNCH, the PDP Deputy National Youth Leader, Timothy Osadolor, said no rational person would demand Fubara’s impeachment.

He said the governor had firmly established himself in the state’s politics and had the backing of the people.

“Those calling for the impeachment of Governor Fubara don’t understand the constitution. Impeaching a performing governor like the Rivers State governor is not a tea party.

“The stakeholders are with him, and they know it is not a tea party to impeach him; he enjoys the support of the Rivers people.

“Governor Fubara has entrenched himself in the politics of Rivers State. He cannot be impeached and should not be impeached.

“Those who have said so, I believe they should retrace their steps. No sane person will move to impeach Fubara,” he added.

The state Publicity Secretary of the Emeka Beke-led APC faction, Darlington Nwauju, also described Okocha as an impostor benefitting from the crisis.

Nwauju, in a statement sent to our correspondent, said, “Recall that part of the grounds which the Supreme Court latched on to sustain the Federal High Court judgment which nullified the local government elections in Rivers State was that the election went ahead despite the court judgment stopping the process.

“Now, our question is – if we are not a people suffering collective amnesia in Rivers State, why must a Tony Okocha, who is still parading himself as chairman of the APC in Rivers against the judgment of the court, now be the person pontificating over abuse of or disobedience to court process?

“What kind of physician goes about healing others while needing a health emergency?

“The likes of Tony Okocha are conflict entrepreneurs as far as the political saga in Rivers State is concerned and posterity will not forget the ignoble roles he is playing in dismantling democracy and the rule of law in Rivers State,” Nwauju, the spokesman of the faction loyal to the former Minister of Transport, Rotimi Amaechi, said.

Fubara urges calm

Fubara has urged the people to remain peaceful and law-abiding in the overall interest of the state.

He spoke at the inauguration of the Nyeweali Akpor Kingdom palace and a magnificent residential quarters for the king, Eze Levi Oriebe, at Ozuoba in Obi/Akpor Local Government Area on Monday.

He warned against any act of lawlessness and assured his supporters that he would come out stronger from the crisis.

“Please continue to follow my footstep, and that footstep remains the path of peace. We need it because if anything happens, we are the greatest losers.

“I will not encourage any act of disobedience or any act of violence. That is, however, not to say that we will support evil. We will never support evil.”

He said his administration remained focused on good governance and would not renege on the promise of delivering impactful, people-oriented development projects continually.

Fubara considered the palace inauguration as historic, being the first in over 200 years of the kingdom’s existence.

He said he promised to build the palace 10 months ago, during the flag-off of reconstruction work on the Okania-Ogbogoro road.

He said his administration achieved the fear six months after the project was awarded for construction.

“I was really touched to the point that I had a few drops of tears when the royal father was speaking. He said for over 200 years that the Akpor Kingdom has existed, it functioned without a palace.

“God doesn’t make mistakes. Maybe, He left it for our administration to build, so that we will be part of history forever in Akpor Kingdom,” Fubara said.

He added that he not only built a palace but also provided a personal residence for the Nyeweali.

He urged the Obio/Akpor people to remain supportive of his administration.

The Eze Oha Apara (IV) and Paramount Ruler of Apara Kingdom, Eze Chike Amadi Worlu-Wodo, during the inauguration, recalled that a few months ago, he benefitted from a magnificent palace built for his kingdom by the Fubara administration.

Eze Worlu-Wodo, who is also the Chairman of the Rivers State Council of Traditional Rulers, said the government was spending much to build palaces for traditional rulers because it understood they were closest leaders to the people.

“I am glad to be here, Your Excellency, to witness your display of goodwill, respect and good intention for the traditional institution. Your Excellency, you have done well, and I must say, we are all proud of you,” he said.

Providing the project description, the Commissioner for Special Projects, Dr Rowland Obed-Whyte, said the construction was awarded in August 2024, and the work was completed in six months.

RSIEC arrest warrant

The Amaewhule-led Assembly has issued an arrest warrant on the Chairman of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission, Justice Adolphus Enebeli (retd.) and four of his commissioners.

The arrest warrant followed the expiration of the 72-hour ultimatum given to them by the Assembly to appear before it.

The Assembly members, during plenary on Monday, unanimously agreed for the arrest warrant on Justice Enebeli (retd.) and four of his commissioners.

The Assembly, in a statement signed by the media aide to the Speaker, Martins Wachukwu, was titled “Rivers Assembly wields a big stick, issues warrant of arrest to compel the attendance of Justice Enebeli (retd.) and other RSIEC commissioners.”

It read: “Invoking its powers to issue a warrant to compel the attendance of any person who, after having been summoned to attend, fails, refuses or neglects to attend, the Rivers State House of Assembly, on Monday, at its 133rd legislative sitting, rode on the crest of Section 129(1) (d) of the 1999 Constitution as amended, and resolved to wield the big stick, by issuing a warrant of arrest on the Chairman of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission, Justice Adolphus Enebeli (retd.), and other commissioners of the commission for repeated failure to appear before the House to explain the commission’s alleged malfeasance in the conduct of the purported ill-starred 5th October 2024 Local Government Election in the state.

“And where the commission expects to generate funds to conduct the proposed 2025 election.”

The House resolved after three former commissioners in the commission who resigned their appointment recently appeared before to explain their roles.

The House Leader, Major Jack, read Section 129 (1)(d) and (2) of the 1999 Constitution to remind the House of the powers conferred on them as an Assembly by the Constitution, emphasising the flagrant refusal of Justice Enebeli (retd.), and other members of the commission to honour the summon.

Commenting on the issue before putting the question to voice vote, Amaewhule decried the situation where those who appeared before the Assembly for screening and confirmation when they were seeking to be appointed now treated summons from the Assembly with levity.

He said Justice Enebeli (retd.) must be brought to the House for questioning on the billions of naira of Rivers people’s money they squandered in the guise of local government election.

When the Speaker put the question to voice vote, the members voted in the affirmative.

Earlier, the House had given the first reading to three Bills; the Rivers State House of Assembly (Powers and Privileges) Bill, 2025; the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission Bill, 2025, and the Rivers State Local Government Bill, 2025.

Rivers elders intervene 

A former Rivers State Governor and Chairman of the Rivers Elders and Leaders Forum, Chief Rufus Ada-George, has called on all the warring factions in the raging political crisis in the state to sheathe their swords.

He also asked them to refrain from inflammatory statements, unnecessary ultimatums and threats in the interest of the state.

Speaking at a news briefing on Monday, Ada-George expressed a sense of commitment to the peace and well-being of the state and reminded the political gladiators in the crisis of the rich history and the remarkable progress made over the years.

“Currently, it appears that we are drifting far into the ocean. But, we still need to aim higher for peaceful co-existence and greater developments,” he said.

The former governor further said in light of the seemingly boiling political pronouncement and judgment by the Supreme Court, “I assert that peace is our utmost priority.

“I call on all parties involved to immediately stop all threats, inflammatory statements, ultimatums and exercise restraint in their pronouncements to avoid escalating the fever pitch tension.”

He enjoined all to “draw lessons from history, particularly from the then 1962 Western Regional crisis as recently emphasised by one prominent citizen of that area.

“Avoidable crises of this nature, if not swiftly and fairly handled, may have far-reaching consequences not just in Rivers State but on the entire nation.

“We cannot afford to degenerate into such a crisis again.”

Ada-George said although the Supreme Court had given its verdict, there was still room for humane and pragmatic decisions to be made.

“Already, the flashy lights are increasing by the day with the pronounced withholding of monthly allocations to the state.

“The end product and anger are being visibly seen on the faces of the ordinary man on the street.

“As a people, we must constantly cultivate the attitude of compromise. Even in the most tense and war-torn regions, compromise has proven to be a powerful tool for resolving conflicts and fostering peace,” he said.

Ada-George called on all former governors and their deputies to speak out in the best interest of Rivers State.

He also called on the 32 members of the legislature to prioritise the well-being of the state above personal and sectional interests.

“It’s time for us to come together as one cohesive, united people in our quest for peace and prosperity.

“As the oldest civilian governor of Rivers State, I’m optimistic about the future of our dear state.

“I, therefore, urge you all to join me in this call to action, to work together towards a peaceful, brighter, more prosperous future for ourselves and for generations to come,” he said.

Another member of the Rivers Elders and Leaders Forum and pioneer spokesman of the Pan Niger Delta Forum,  Amabs Sara-Igbe, chided Okocha for fomenting trouble.

Sara-Igbe defended the letter addressed to the Speaker of the Assembly through the SSG, Danagogo.

“I am surprised that Tony Okocha, with his level of education, does not know the role of the executive governor. Do the president or governor sign letters officially?

“Official letters are communicated through the secretary to the government whether federal or state. It’s not the role of Mr President or Mr Governor to sign letters.

“There are no two governors in Rivers State. We have only one governor who is the head of the government and so if the head of the government invites you to a meeting, it is normal, it is right, except you’ll tell us we have two governors,” he said.

He warned that any attempt to take the governor’s peace overtures as a sign of weakness would be resisted by the people of the state and the Niger Delta.

“Nobody is praying for problems. The governor said he’s going to implement the Supreme Court judgment. The judgment did not say impeach him or he should resign, right?

“And even though we have issues with the Supreme Court judgment, it’s the highest court, so we’re going to obey it; we’re going to implement it.

“But they should not take that for granted because we want to implement the judgment, so he (Okocha) will talk anyhow.

“Rivers people will not take it lightly and Niger Delta will not take it if anything happens to Sim. Let him get it clear in his mind,” he said.

Group demands lawsuit

A non-governmental organisation, Transparent Strategy and Good Leadership, has given a seven-day ultimatum to Fubara to institute a suit against the Assembly members for lying on oath.

The group said the 27 pro-Wike lawmakers defected from the PDP to the APC.

In a letter to the governor on Monday, signed by the President General of the group, Chizy Enyi, the group said if the governor failed, it would have no option but to apply for an order of mandamus to compel him to do so.

“I give you seven days pre-action notice to prosecute the under-listed persons who are officials of Rivers State government who lied on oath and thereby committed perjury.

“The affected lawmakers are Martin Chike Amaewhule, Dumle Maol, Major Jack, Linda, Somiari Stewart, Franklin U. Nwabocha, Christopher K. Ofiks and Azeru Opara.

“Others are Enemi A. George, Tonye Adoki, Granville W. Tekenari, Ngbar Bernard, John Dominic Iderima, Queen Owuma Tony, Loolo Isaiah Opuende, Abbey Peter, Igwe Obey-Aforji, Justina Emeji and Ignatius Onwuka.

“Also listed are Chimezie Nwankwo, Lemchi Prince Nyevhe, Barile Nwakoh, Emilia Lucky Amadi, Nkemjika Ezekwe, David O. Arnold, Nwankwo Sylvanus, Gerald Oforji and Wami Solomon.

“We wish to let you know that if you fail within seven days to initiate criminal prosecution against the above-mentioned persons, we will apply to the court for an order of mandamus to compel you to do so,” the statement read.

The group added that all necessary documents relating to the alleged offence “to enable you (Fubara) to prove your case beyond reasonable doubt are hereby attached.”

Plateau PDP warns

Some PDP chieftains in Plateau State, speaking with The PUNCH in separate interviews in Jos, on Monday, condemned the call for Fubara’s impeachment or resignation.

A member of the state PDP executive, speaking on condition of anonymity, described the situation in Rivers as “unfortunate.”

He warned that any attempt to impeach the governor would be met with resistance.

Another party leader blamed the judiciary for the crisis.

“The problem we are having in the country is the judiciary. If not, the Rivers lawmakers have defected to another party and everybody saw it, but the judiciary thinks otherwise. That’s the problem,” he added.

Former Senator representing Kaduna Central Senatorial District, Shehu Sani, has asserted that the defection of the former Governor of Kaduna State, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai, from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the Social Democratic Party (SDP) is good riddance.

Recall that El-Rufai has officially resigned from the APC and joined the Social Democratic Party (SDP), citing irreconcilable differences with the ruling party’s leadership.

In a resignation letter submitted to his ward in Kaduna State on Monday, El-Rufai expressed disappointment with the APC’s trajectory in recent years.

In an interview on Channels Television Politics Today on Monday, March 10, 2025, Shehu Sani argued that El-Rufai’s resignation was necessary, as his leadership had weakened the APC’s influence in Kaduna State over the years.

According to him, El-Rufai’s exit is an opportunity for the state Governor, Uba Sani and APC leaders to embrace the people of the state and reset the party towards the next election.

He said, “For those of us from Kaduna state, it is a good riddance, because he stands as a liability to the party in the state and I can back this with facts. In 2015, APC had two senators; by 2023, all the senatorial zones were taken over by PDP. And out of the 14 House of Representatives seats in Kaduna state, under Nasiru, almost 9 of the seats were won by the PDP, 2 by LP, and then 3 by APC. With him as the governor, the APC also lost the presidential election in the state.

“You can see that by the time he left, the party was an unpopular platform in the state, so his exit is an opportunity for the governor and party leaders of the state to embrace the people of the state and reconfigure and reset the party towards the next election.”