As Nigerians celebrate 32 years after the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election won by Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola, mixed reactions greeted the state of democratic governance in the country yesterday.

On June 6, 2018, former President Muhammadu Buhari declared June 12 as the new date to mark Democracy Day in commemoration of Abiola’s election.

The June 12 election was annulled by former Military President, General Ibrahim Babangida (retd).

In 2019, Buhari assented to the Public Holiday Act Amendment Bill, which made June 12 Democracy Day in Nigeria and a public holiday.

However, the President Bola Tinubu-led administration has been in the eye of the storm over issues, such as worsening insecurity, harsh economic reforms, the use of the Cybercrime Act to intimidate and bully Nigerians and the decline in the country’s democracy.

The Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Social Democratic Party, SDP, Conference of Nigeria Political Parties, CNPP, Coalition of United Political Parties, CUPP, the pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Arewa Consultative Forum, ACF, yesterday, dissected the state of democracy under the current administration.

They raised dust over the country’s democratic institutions, including allegations of executive overreach, judicial interference, and marginalisation of local governance structures, concluding that democracy in Nigeria was endangered.

Democracy declining under APC — PDP

The PDP raised alarm over what it described as steady decline in Nigeria’s democracy under the leadership of President Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress, APC.

The party’s National Publicity Secretary, Mr Debo Ologunagba, expressed concerns over the authoritarian tendencies of the current administration.

He said: “Are we practising democracy now? Is this democracy, cronyism, or individualism? We’ll issue a statement. Don’t worry about that.”

Also, the Deputy National Youth Leader of the party, Mr Timothy Osadolor, in his remarks, highlighted the irony of President Tinubu’s current governance style, given his historical role as a frontline pro-democracy activist during the era of National Democratic Coalition, NADECO. 

 “President Tinubu was one of the early frontliners among the NADECO people who fought for June 12. That was the democracy we are currently enjoying today.

“We have seen brazen attempts to stifle democratic tendencies in the land, unlike during military rule. Court orders are flagrantly disobeyed and discarded.

“History will always reference his administration, not those of his appointees or surrogates,” he added.

Democratic ideals not yet entrenched — ACF

Similarly, the National Publicity Secretary of Arewa Consultative Forum, ACF, Prof. Tukur Muhammad-Baba, said the principles of democracy had continued to decline.

Muhammad-Baba, in a chat with Vanguard, said: “The ACF welcomes the anniversary but regrets that Nigeria does not seem to be on a trajectory towards the entrenchment of democratic ideals as June 12 should have dictated.

“Systematically, those principles of democracy, such as free and fair elections, robust representation, checks and balances among the various branches of government, legislative independence and oversight, robust, independent judiciary and accountability have all been observed more in the breach than in compliance.

‘’This decline has been on the ground since 1999 but has worsened over the last four, and particularly over the last two years.

“A poignant illustration of the regressive decline in the ideals of democracy is the fact that more and more elected officials are the same people subverting democracy by their actions, inactions and insensitivity to the yearning of the populace.

“It is, therefore, highly regretful to surmise that at the demonstrable pace that the country is going, true democracy will take decades to take root, if at all.

‘’While very dismal, the people cannot afford to lose hope. Something will have to give, as the existential threat that the current mainstream politicians represent, cannot endure.

‘’It is also not too late to retrace our dismal political behaviour. ACF hopes that those that have the capacity and capability will rise to the occasion, supported by electorate, will rise to the occasion to deliver.”

Nigeria’s democracy is work in progress —Afenifere

On its part, pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, said the country’s democracy remains work in progress.

Afenifere, in a statement by its leader, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, said: “It is a milestone because it represents the day democracy and civil rule were reclaimed and restored in Nigeria, after a prolonged, destabilising military rule.

Without a doubt, the sustained and uninterrupted democratic rule since 1999 is a product of the sacrifices and commitment of our heroes and heroines in the civil society groups, and other well-meaning compatriots who, along with Afenifere, coalesced into the National Democratic Coalition, NADECO, to constitute the vanguard of progressive forces that ensured the restoration of democracy and the birth of the fourth republic in Nigeria.

“We’re happy to note that the progressive forces remain alert, committed and active. And we’re confident that the progressive spirit will continue to sustain and nurture democratic ideals in Nigeria.

“While we celebrate sustained democratic rule in our country on this auspicious occasion, we’re also reminded that democratic practice remains work in progress. We, therefore, call on all our compatriots, particularly the civil society groups, to collaborate with other progressive forces to deepen democratic practice and processes in Nigeria, for the benefit of this generation and generations yet unborn.

“Thus, June 12 is a reminder that although we come from different backgrounds with diverse perspectives, our shared goal of a prosperous Nigeria where equity, justice, social and economic well-being are at play is the driving force behind our determination to see this country progress.’’

Nigeria democracy is in cul-de-sac —OHanaeze Ndigbo

Also, the apex Igbo socio-cultural group, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, said democracy in Nigeria has performed below expectation, saying no conscious efforts had been made by the political elites to strengthen it.

The National Publicity Secretary of the group, Dr Ezechi Chukwu, said: “Nigeria’s democracy is in a cul-de-sac, as a result of lack of conscious efforts by successive governments and political elite to strengthen our institutions and de-personalise our political system.

“The most pragmatic approach today to reinvent the fabrics of our democracy, therefore, is restructuring, which constitutes a robust pathway to healthy competition among federating units, devolution of powers, resource control and fiscal federalism.

“The ultimate end of democracy is the well being of the people and if the foundation of our organic corpus is flawed, the aura of democracy will undoubtedly be perennially elusive. Hence, the centre ought to be unburdened to enhance good governance and effective bureaucracy at various strata of social structure.”

Democracy is in coma —Okorie

Similarly, the pioneer National Chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA, Chekwas Okorie, said Nigeria’s democracy is comatose.

Okorie said: “The state of Nigeria’s democracy is at best comatose. The bitter truth is that the overwhelming majority of Nigerians have lost confidence in the basic institutions upon which our democracy rests.

‘’The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, is constitutionally empowered to manage the country’s democratic process and cannot be trusted, based on the disappointing outcomes of its previous performance as a highly compromised institution. ‘’The judiciary, which is expected to deliver substantial justice to aggrieved petitioners who were flagrantly shortchanged by the electoral commission, turned out to be a colossal disappointment. Justice was available only to the highest bidder.

“Tragically, the National and state assemblies are perceived as rubber stamps to the executive governments at the national and state levels. Nigeria is dangerously and rapidly drifting into a dictatorship.

‘’There is palpable fear that if urgent steps are not taken to redress the ugly situation before the commencement of the 2027 general elections, Nigeria may be plunged into avoidable anarchy by desperate politicians who are determined to capture political power by all means.”

Nigeria is sliding into civilian dictatorship — Dele Momodu

Delivering a damning verdict, former presidential aspirant on the platform of the PDP, Dele Momodu, who expressed concern over the current state of Nigeria’s democracy, warned that the country is sliding into what he described as civilian dictatorship.

The PDP chieftain, who spoke on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief, lamented the erosion of democratic values, especially in the lead-up to this year’s Democracy Day.

Momodu said: “I’m very happy that today coincides with the lead-up to June 12 (Democracy Day), so that if we still have any iota of conscience left, we’ll realise we have damaged this democracy.

“The summary of it all is that on the eve of June 12, Nigeria is virtually back to civilian dictators who don’t care how you feel or what you think. Nigerians are hungry.

“We’ve damaged this democracy, and I hope we’ve not damaged it beyond repair because the audacity, the effrontery of this set of politicians—whether in the executive, legislature, or local government—is unbelievable.”

APC has betrayed spirit of democracy — CNPP

The Conference of Nigeria Political Parties, CNPP, on its part, said: “It is, however, both ironic and regrettable that the same All Progressives Congress (APC) — a party built by the same political elements and movements that once championed the immortalization of MKO Abiola and the restoration of June 12 as Democracy Day — has become the architect of the systematic erosion of the very values June 12 represents.

“While we recognize and appreciate the efforts of past and present administrations in acknowledging June 12 — particularly the historic declaration by President Muhammadu Buhari recognizing it as Democracy Day — we must not be blinded by symbolism without substance.

“The APC-led government has failed to pursue genuine electoral reforms or support the evolution of a people-driven constitution that can institutionalize transparent processes and accountability in governance. The sacred principles of popular will, fair competition, and justice, which formed the cornerstone of the June 12 struggle, have been desecrated in the pursuit of power and political control.”

Electoral fraud, power grab a mockery of our democracy — CUPP

Expressing sadness over the decline in democratic gains, the Coalition of United Political Parties, CUPP, said it had been eclipsed by electoral fraud and power grab by beneficiaries of the sacrifices made by citizens before, during and after June 12.

Speaking on the state of Nigeria’s democracy since the June 12, 1993 elections, National Secretary of the CUPP, Chief Peter Ameh said: “The annulled election, widely regarded as a true expression of the people’s will, was suppressed by a military regime, yet its spirit inspired a relentless pursuit of democracy.

“Today, however, that spirit is being suffocated by the very leaders entrusted to uphold it, through rampant corruption, political violence, and authoritarian tendencies that mock the sacrifices of June 12.

“The essence of June 12 lies in the people’s yearning for a free, fair, and inclusive democratic system. Yet, over the years, this vision has been eroded by the actions of politicians who prioritize power over principle.

“Persistent corruption has drained public trust, with elected officials often seen as serving personal interests, rather than the common good.

“As a nation, we cannot allow the legacy of June 12 to be reduced to mere symbolism, while those in power trample on the very democratic values it represents.

“CUPP calls for urgent action to restore the glory of June 12. We demand an end to political violence and electoral manipulation, starting with a full and transparent account of the 2023 election irregularities.

“We condemn authoritarian practices and call for the reinstatement of democratic processes in Rivers State. The electoral commission must be purged of partisan appointments to ensure its independence.”

June 12, a defining moment in our journey — SDP

Reviewing democracy in the country, Social Democratic Party, SDP, said June 12 would remain a watershed in Nigeria’s democratic journey but lamented that the country was sadly bogged down by the yoke of leadership conspiracy

The party, in a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Mr Rufus Aiyenigba, said: “Today, Nigeria celebrates, yet another national anniversary of the pride of place in our political history and the indelible marks that June 12, 1993, made in our national life, particularly as a historic watershed and being emblematic of our democracy, and shaping our collective efforts at nation-building.

“The SDP notes the date with fond reminiscences and great reverence to the memory of the immortal symbol of our nascent democracy, the late business mogul and African icon, Bashorun Moshood Abiola, who treaded the heroic path of the uncommon sacrifice of becoming a martyr, so democratic rule could take firm roots in Nigeria.

‘’June 12, 1993, was quite a defining moment in our journey towards democratic rule, and the date has become an eternal reference point in our journey towards nation-building.

“Today, as always, we celebrate the great sacrificial exertions of the late generalissimo of the Yoruba, whose fame, impact and influence transcended his exalted noble title, as he became a national symbol of true service and the torch-bearer for national redemption.

“As we mark this great day, Nigeria is sadly bogged down by the yoke of leadership conspiracy and the country is not appreciably moving towards attaining the lofty dreams and great vision Abiola had for Nigeria and the people.

‘’It is an understatement that our nation is today, faced with arrested development in all areas that matter.

“Going by what currently obtains, and beyond political arguments, tokenism in mandate delivery, vacuous grandstanding, and the shenanigans of the political elites, our nation is not anyway near the true ideals of the democracy for which Abiola fought and died.

‘’We do not appear to be on the desirable path of meeting the yearnings and aspirations of our people.

The government, today, is far detached from the noble cause of banishing poverty; engendering a sane society and safe Nigerian landscape; of committing to making life truly meaningful for all Nigerians; of enthroning equity, social justice, and of building a good Nigerian society for all.”

Former Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Chief Olabode George, on Wednesday, urged President Bola Tinubu to, in the spirit of the June 12 anniversary, return the suspended Governor of Rivers State, Mr Siminalayi Fubara to office. 

Fubara was suspended by Tinubu on March 18 due to political tension in the oil-bearing state.

Last week, Fubara visited Tinubu in Lagos during Sallah celebration.

George, in an open letter to commemorate the 32nd anniversary of the June 12, 1993 presidential election won by the late Chief M.K.O. Abiola but annulled on June 23, 1993 by General Ibrahim Babangida, said: “If Tinubu could forgive Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, then he should extend same gesture to Fubara.

“On June 12, we will be celebrating Democracy Day. This is a reminder of the true meaning of democracy – the will of the people.

“Since Tinubu has forgiven Sanwo-Olu, then it makes a lot of sense, spiritually, to also forgive Fubara and let him return to office. I am talking as an elder.

“Let me also remind the President that he was in the forefront of those who fought the military, seeking a return to civilian rule.

“I still remember him coming to my office in Aso Rock when he wanted to see General Diya. That was during the General Sani Abacha regime.

“He wanted to be deputy to Olagunsoye Oyinlola in Lagos then. He discussed with Diya but General Abacha eventually gave the position to Mrs. Okunnu. I know how passionate Tinubu was then about return to civil rule.

“He later joined NADECO to fight for democracy. Some of those who fought alongside him for democracy have died. It is not of his making that he is alive today.

“So, he should thank God, honour the memory of those who fought alongside him for democracy and return Fubara to office immediately.

“I also appeal to him, in the spirit of my maternal grand uncle who founded the first political party in Nigeria in 1922, Herbert Macaulay, to please reinstate Fubara.

“Tinubu should listen to, and honour this appeal in memory of all those who died in the journey to our democracy.”

The Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd), has said the proposed N1.48tn 2025 budget anticipates the return of suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara and other affected political officeholders.

Ibas made this known in Abuja on Wednesday while defending the budget before the House of Representatives Ad-Hoc Committee on Rivers State Oversight.

According to him, the proposed budget aligns with the strategic objectives of the River State Development Plan 2017-2027.

He also noted that the proposal presents a strategic and integrated framework designed to raise revenues and accelerate infrastructure development, enhance human capital, and promote inclusive economic growth across all sectors.

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He said, “In anticipation of the eventual return to constitutional order, the draft budget prudently retains provisions for the offices and functions of suspended political actors, some of whom have already drawn on allocated resources in the first quarter and are expected to resume their duties at the expiration of the emergency period.”

He, however, accused some suspected Rivers State officials of failure to provide the administration with useful information required to prepare the budget proposal.

Ibas added, “Regrettably, some state officials withheld critical information required to ensure a more complete capture of those expenditures at the time of submission of the budget estimates.

“However, recognising the exigencies under the state of emergency and the need to ensure fiscal credibility, the budget framework integrates expenditure information made available before the submission of the budget proposal to ratify the first quarter expenditures in a lawful and transparent structure.

“This ensures alignment with statutory appropriation protocols while safeguarding the integrity of public finance management.”

The budget, totalling ₦1.48tn in expenditure with a projected ₦1.4tn in revenue, was transmitted to the National Assembly following presidential approval after the Supreme Court ruled on the legality of the Rivers State 2025 appropriation process.

In his opening remarks, Ibas thanked the committee for its dedication. 

“We in Rivers State are most grateful for your commitment. Despite your tight schedules, you have shown unwavering resolve to fulfil your constitutional duties,” he said.

Ibas highlighted several major allocations including ₦324.50bn for infrastructure and transportation projects; ₦55bn to relocate and expand Rivers State University Teaching Hospital; ₦50bn for zonal hospital upgrades; ₦38.85bn for shoreline protection and erosion control; ₦30bn for zonal secondary schools and ₦5.75bn for primary school rehabilitation.

Others are ₦2.5bn for women’s economic empowerment and ₦3bn for youth resource centres; ₦20bn to recapitalise Rivers State Microfinance Bank for Medium and Small Scale Enterprises support, and ₦117bn in pension, gratuities, and employee benefits.

Responding, the Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Rivers State oversight, Prof Julius Ihonvbere, commended Ibas for the detailed presentation and affirmed the committee’s readiness to partner with the administrator in restoring peace and development to Rivers State.

He also pledged the committee’s readiness to scrutinise the budget estimate in the interest of the oil-rich state and its people.

Ihonvbere said, “I want to especially thank you and let you know that this committee is committed to working with you to restore stability, peace, growth, and development in Rivers State.

“Rivers has always been a shining example of what is possible with good leadership, and that is why this commitment is here.

“We will scrutinise the budget. We will invite you to send your relevant officials for a proper defence of the budget. In as much as we are committed to joining hands with you to get Rivers State back on track, we are not going to cut corners.”

Ihonvbere, who doubles as the House Majority Leader, also highlighted key social welfare components in the budget, such as women’s empowerment and pensions for retirees, describing them as necessary and people-centred interventions.

“These are areas that touch people’s lives, and we know the plight of their families. We appreciate you for making these bold commitments,” he added.

The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has been accused of allegedly colluding with bandits to orchestrate the abduction of 300 students from Government Secondary School, Kankara, in Katsina State during his tenure as Zamfara State Governor.

In an interview with an online TV station, Special Assistant to Governor Dauda Lawal on Media and Communications, Mustafa Jafaru Kaura, alleged that Matawalle played a central role in the kidnapping.

The Kankara abduction took place on December 11, 2020, when over 300 students were kidnapped from the Government Science Secondary School in Kankara, Katsina State

The boys were later confirmed released on December 18, 2020.

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Kaura, in the interview, claimed that the former governor collected N300m from then-Katsina State Governor, Aminu Masari, as ransom for the release of the abducted students but diverted most of the funds.

He said, “Matawalle collected N300m from his counterpart, the then Governor of Katsina State, Aminu Bello Masari, with the aim of facilitating the release of the 300 kidnapped students of GSS Kankara.

“However, at the end, he gave the bandits only N30m and took the remaining N270m for himself.”

In response, the Zamfara State chapter of the All Progressives Congress said it would take legal action against Kaura for what it called “baseless and unfounded” allegations against Matawalle, who is the party’s leader in the state.

In a statement to journalists on Wednesday, APC spokesperson Yusuf Idris, announced that the party had convened an emergency meeting and resolved to take Kaura to court.

Idris said, “The Zamfara State chapter of the APC under its chairman, Tukur Umar Danfulani today held an emergency SWC meeting and reviewed the provocation by Mustapha Jafaru Kaura against its leaders, who need to be called to order.

“The meeting condemned the lies peddled by the Zamfara State government against the APC leaders in the state, more especially against the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Mohammed Matawalle, on very sensitive issues which need to be investigated.”

“The callousness of Mustapha Jafaru Kaura, spokesman to Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal, characterised by open insults, character assassination, and direct abuse of APC Zamfara State chapter chieftains—particularly the state party leader and current Minister of State for Defence, former governor Bello Mohammed Matawalle, as well as the former governor now Senator representing Zamfara West, Hon. Abdulaziz Yari Abubakar—can no longer be tolerated by the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state.”

The party noted that Kaura’s comments about the December 11, 2020 abduction of students in Kankara amounted to grave accusations.

“The recent outpouring by Mustapha Jafaru Kaura that over 300 students of GSS, Kankara, in the bordering state of Katsina, were whisked into the forest at gunpoint by a gang of armed bandits, and indeed many kidnappings, followed a deliberate collaboration between former governor Bello Mohammed Matawalle—now Minister of State for Defence—and the bandits, will be met with court action. The party will file a suit for Kaura to provide all the details of his assertions.

The APC said it would not only demand Kaura provide evidence of his claims but also explain his statements about other high-profile abductions in Zamfara during Matawalle’s tenure.

“Mustapha Jafaru Kaura must also prove and give details of the kidnappings of the over 270 female students of Government Girls Secondary School, Jangebe, in Zamfara State—who were abducted by bandits on February 26, 2021, and rescued by Matawalle just two days after.

“The same applies to students of Kaya in Maradun Local Government Area and students from the College of Agriculture and Animal Science in Bakura, Zamfara State, who were also rescued by Matawalle.”

The party also indicated it may include the online platform that conducted the interview in the legal proceedings.

“The party will also consider joining the platform used in the interview in the case, as both the interviewee and the interviewer seemed to be going through a prepared document in order to achieve their set objective,” he said.

Efforts by The PUNCH to get Matawalle’s direct response were unsuccessful, as he did not respond to multiple phone calls.

However, his Special Adviser on Political Matters, Ibrahim Danmaliki, confirmed that the minister was fully aware of the legal plans being made by the APC.

He said, “Honourable Bello Matawalle is in the picture of what is going on concerning the plan by his party, APC, to go to court with Mustapha Jafaru Kaura, who accused him of conniving with bandits to abduct students of GSS Kankara in Katsina State.

“He was behind the move because he has been accused of what he did not do. So, to cut things short, the minister is fully aware of the arrangement, and he is in support of the court action by the APC leadership

A 25-year-old Nigerian, Samuel Abiodun, has been sentenced to five years imprisonment by a United States of America court for his role in a sextortion scheme that led to the death of a teenager.

PUNCH Metro learnt from a statement by the US Attorney for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, David Metcalf, on Wednesday, that Abiodun was sentenced on Tuesday.

According to Metcalf, the convict, alongside an accomplice, Afeez Adewale, was arrested in Nigeria by the FBI and extradited in July 2024.

Following his extradition, the duo were charged before a court in August 2024.

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While Abiodun pleaded guilty to the offences of money laundering conspiracy and wire fraud related to the sexual extortion and death of a young man in December 2024, Aina pleaded guilty to cyberstalking, interstate threat to injure reputation, receiving proceeds of extortion, money laundering conspiracy, and wire fraud in May 2025.

Following their guilty pleas, Abiodun was sentenced to five years’ imprisonment by US District Judge Joel Slomsky on Tuesday, while Aina is scheduled for sentencing on August 11.

Metcalf added that their third accomplice, Afeez Adewale, who has yet to be extradited from Nigeria, has also been charged in absentia. 

He stated, “Aina pleaded guilty last month to cyberstalking, interstate threat to injure reputation, receiving proceeds of extortion, money laundering conspiracy, and wire fraud. He is scheduled to be sentenced on August 11 and faces a statutory maximum of lifetime imprisonment.

“Adewale has been charged with money laundering conspiracy and wire fraud. He remains in Nigeria, pending extradition to the US.”

Speaking on the role Abiodun played in the conspiracy, Metcalf said, “As the financial middleman, Abiodun played a key role in this sextortion scheme, which thoroughly traumatised the victim and then devastated his family.”

He continued, “These scammers’ sole aim is to get money from scared and vulnerable young people, with absolutely no regard for their feelings or the potential fallout. In prosecuting this case, we are bringing to justice the men whose actions resulted in truly indelible harm.

“We also want to send a message to others like them that the Department of Justice’s reach is long, and if they keep extorting innocent Americans, they could find themselves in an American prison.”

He acknowledged the role of the Nigerian government in the extradition of Abiodun and Aina.

“The support and assistance of Nigerian security authorities was essential to this effort, notably that of Nigeria’s Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, the Federal Ministry of Justice’s International Criminal Justice Cooperation Department, and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission,” Metcalf concluded

Segun Sowunmi says Peter Obi has turned out to be his ‘greatest disappointment’ due to his perceived receptiveness to the coalition movement spearheaded by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and other opposition figures in the country. 

Obi, who dumped the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) 2022 for the Labour Party, where he was presented as the 2023 presidential candidate, has become a political force in Nigeria.

However, as Nigeria prepares for the 2027 general election, opposition politicians, including Obi, are making moves to boost their chances.

To wrest power from the ruling party in 2027, former Vice President Alhaji Atiku Abubakar is championing a coalition of opposition figures to come under one party that’ll sweep the All Progressives Congress out of power.

According to reports, Atiku proposed Obi as his running mate for the coalition, promising that the former governor of Anambra State would succeed him. 

Even though Atiku is a PDP leader, there are indications that he may dump the party for the coalition he spearheads.

In their recent meeting, opposition politicians set up a team to decide whether to float a new party or fuse into an existing platform. 

Meanwhile, the PDP Governors have rejected the Atiku-led coalition, insisting that the movement must be party-driven. 

Also, Sowunmi, a longstanding ally of the former Vice President, has expressed dissatisfaction with his principal’s move, stressing that the PDP has to be the base of the coalition.

He also labelled the coalition movement a selfish adventure to favour a set of politicians.

In his bid to save the PDP, Sowunmi recently called on the party’s leadership to bring Obi back to the party.

The PDP chieftain also warned Obi against the coalition, saying the politicians in the movement are only interested in taking advantage of his popularity for the 2027 general elections.

Speaking during an interview on Arise Television’s ‘Prime Time’, Sowunmi said he was disappointed in Obi because he failed to take advantage of his popularity by aligning with the main opposition force in the country. 

“My greatest disappointment as we are getting ready for 2027 is actually Peter. The reason is that I had hoped in all of his seriousness that Peter will understand that we can move and challenge the status quo, not the way he’s been doing it all by himself. We could do that just to be able to take the outcome, even if it’s a defeat, we’ll say we gave it the best push, and we shattered the glass ceilings and united the country because there’s no glass ceiling on top of the South East. You made one effort and then the next thing you’re doing you started running up and down the street,” Sowunmi said.

The PDP chieftain said he told Obi that if he failed to make up his mind by May 29, he would be inclined to declare his support for President Tinubu in the next election.

His words: “ I told him many months before that if your mind is not made up by May 29 this year on what you want to do, I’m going to be more inclined to support Asiwaju. And the simple reason is this, I told him Peter, the benefits that we have done now by integrating you as someone that can be leader of the Igbo political force, and in a pan Nigerian environment, I do not think throw it away but it’s your call, if you want to do that all this coalition this, coalition that. I’m thinking that you’re bringing a new order.” 

Although it is not clear if Obi has officially joined the Atiku-led coalition, he has been seen attending the movement’s meetings.

…Anti-Tinubu coalition dead on arrival, says Wike

President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday declared that even though the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) minister, Nyesom Wike, is not yet a member of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), the party is open to receiving him whenever he decides to switch.

Tinubu stated this when he commissioned the Arterial Road N16 (Shehu Shagari Way) from Ring Road One (Nnamdi Azikiwe Way) to Arterial Road N20 (Wole Soyinka Road) and some other roads in Katampe District.

The president noted that with Wike, APC will continue to be in a joyous mood, while the party’s rivals will continue to writhe in pain.

He said, “We have somebody in Nyesom Wike. He is not a member of my party. Not yet. But the day he changes his mind and registers with the Progressives, we will welcome him because we will enjoy him singing ‘as e dey pain them, e dey sweet us”.

Speaking about the project, the president said residents of the Gishiri community affected by the construction had since been relocated and compensated, saying the government did not grab the land.

He said the project represents more than a stretch of asphalt but affirms his commitment and transformational posture under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

“Since assuming office on May 23, this administration has been guided by a philosophy anchored on reform and regeneration. Today, we see tangible proof of that philosophy in action. The corridor was underdeveloped for years despite the central road in the Abuja master plan. Today, that narrative has changed. What was once missing as a link is now a modern, functional, and durable infrastructure. The artery is fully realised through the leadership of the FCT administration under the Honourable Minister Nyesom Wike.

“This road will ease traffic congestion around central Abuja and improve connectivity to developing districts such as Katampe, Jahi, and Mabushi.

“It will stimulate housing and business growth while serving as a foundation for future city integration. Infrastructure is not a luxury; it is a necessity. It is the bedrock of national competitiveness, growth, social integration, and economic opportunity.

“We recognise that our nation’s development is linked to the quality of infrastructure, connecting people, cities, and industries. There is no way industrialisation will flourish without good roads. We are investing in roads, rail, power, health care, education, and digital infrastructure. It is only through these coordinated and integrated developments that we can unlock Nigeria’s full potential. “I promise you we will,” the president added.

‘Dead Coalition’

Earlier in his welcome address, the minister thanked the president for his support of the FCT Administration, without which he said the project and others could not have been achieved.

Noting that there are some people who are not happy that the president was enhancing the country’s infrastructural landscape, Wike said the planned coalition by the opposition against the president was already dead on arrival.

He said, “Let me first of all convey the happiness and appreciation of the people of FCT. I am sure that when you came out of the vehicle, you saw how happy the people were. That is to tell you they appreciate and recognise the good works you are doing. Like you said yesterday, there are some people who, whatever you do, will never be happy.

“They were born not to be happy, and so there is nothing you can do about it. But those who appreciate it, who are happy, you can see how elated they are. That tells you that the day you go to the satellite towns, what will happen, because they have never had it so good. It is unbelievable.

“I hardly watch some stations, but sometimes, I don’t know how spiritually I was touched to just tune in and start watching. This morning I was touched and was watching. I didn’t know that people can be pained. I didn’t know. And now I know there are such people that are pained. My duty now is to make sure to continue to give them high blood pressure. ‘As e dy pain them, e go dy sweet us. As e dy sweet us, e go dy pain to them’. That is my job. I will be happy every time, moving and laughing, and then they will be there, fighting and shouting.

“So, Mr President, we want to thank you for making us part of this revolution that is going on. Your good works have killed the Coalition. I was thinking that truly, there would be a coalition.

“So I told my people to make sure that every national television station must hook in so that they (the coalition) can see what is happening every day. If they turn to ADBN, they are watching Mr President. If they turn to TVC, it is Mr President. If they go to Channels, Mr President. If they go to NTA, Mr President. Even the oneTown I don’t watch, Arise TV, is Mr President. So, they have no choice, and they must watch it for 17 days. There is nothing they can do. So, sir, Abuja people say I should tell you, please, they are happy that even though you have given them 10 days, the other ones will be shared by the Vice President, Senate President and Speaker. But please help us so that these people who say they are not happy, their BP will keep going up.

“By Friday, we will go to Apo, a 15-kilometre road to Wassa. By Monday, we will be in N5, Life Camp. By Tuesday, INEC headquarters. So, they wouldn’t know what to do. “Coalition is bound to fail, and it has failed,” he declared.

New Zealand has introduced a new visa called the Parent Boost Visa, which will allow parents of migrants to stay in the country for up to 10 years.

The visa begins on September 29, 2025.

New Zealand immigration department revealed this in a statement on its website on Monday.

This is meant to help families stay together longer.

Under this new plan, parents can stay for five years at first.

After that, they can apply for another five years if they still meet all the rules. This is a visitor visa that lets parents come and go during the visa period.

However, it does not lead to permanent residency. Anyone who wants to live in New Zealand permanently must apply for a parent resident visa or a parent retirement resident visa. 

Who Can Apply?

To get the Parent Boost Visa, applicants must:

Be sponsored by a New Zealand citizen or resident

Have health insurance for at least one year, which must cover emergency care up to NZD $250,000

Take two health checks: one while applying, and another after three years

Show proof that their insurance stays active during the whole visa periodFinances

Applicants must meet one of these financial rules:

Their sponsor must earn at least New Zealand’s median wage (for one parent), or 1.5 times that amount (for two parents)

The parents themselves earn a steady income equal to New Zealand’s pension amount

They have savings of at least NZD $160,000 (one parent) or NZD $250,000 (two parents)

Visa costs:

Standard fee: NZD $3,000

Pacific applicants: NZD $2,450

Tourism levy: NZD $100

Health check (after 3 years): NZD $325 (NZD $240 for Pacific applicants)

A 19-year-old upcoming Nigerian artiste identified simply as Destiny has been beaten to death in the Volta Region area of Ghana.

PUNCH Metro learnt that the incident happened on May 28.

It was gathered that a yet-to-be-identified Nigerian based in Ghana accused him of failing to remit funds related to a business venture they introduced him to.

The male adult, who was also said to be among those who facilitated his trip to the country, stormed his apartment alongside two others to question him about the funds.

However, Destiny’s failure to provide answers led to a severe assault meted out to him.

A source privy to the incident told PUNCH Metro on Tuesday on the condition of anonymity because he lacked the authority to speak with the media that the Edo State-born artiste thereafter succumbed to the injuries sustained from the assault.

“Destiny went to Ghana to further his education, and the travel was facilitated by someone he called his street brother. These are the same people who provided an apartment for him over there. Those who broke the news to us from there said the men introduced him to a business, which they later accused him of diverting some funds meant for the business. This angered them, and they went to his apartment and beat him up. The beating was so intense that he felt weak and gave up the ghost in the process,” the source narrated.

It was further learnt that the suspects left the deceased’s body in the room after they discovered that he was motionless.

Another source who spoke to our correspondent said the police later discovered the corpse a few days after the incident.

“The police were alerted to the incident, and some officers were deployed to the apartment where Destiny’s remains were found. We were told that no suspects had been arrested since his death. We hope the Ghanaian authorities find his killers and bring them to justice.”

In a video obtained by PUNCH Metro, Destiny was seen speaking about himself and what his plans were.

He said, “I am Destiny and I am a streamer from Nigeria. I want to apply to Streamers University, and this will be a great joy for me, my mother, and everybody.  I am also an artiste and a gamer. I do all sorts of things.”

PUNCH Metro had reported in April that a 77-year-old Nigerian Uber driver, Olatunji Bolaji, was killed in a shooting outside a hookah lounge in Philadelphia, United States.

Bolaji, who lived in Norristown, Pennsylvania, was on duty around 2 a.m. on Wednesday when he picked up a passenger, a 22-year-old man, outside the Byblos Hookah Bar near Rittenhouse Square in Centre City, CBS reports on Friday.

Police said shortly after Bolaji picked up the young man, another vehicle pulled up behind his SUV, and two men got out.

One of them opened fire, shooting both Bolaji and the passenger.

The Federal High Court in Abuja on Wednesday adjourned the ruling on the bail application of three detained promoters of the Crypto Bridge Exchange until June 30.

Justice Emeka Nwite fixed the date after counsel for the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Fadila Yusuf, and the defence lawyers adopted their arguments for and against the bail application.

On April 24, Justice Nwite authorised the EFCC to arrest and detain six operators of CBEX over allegations of fraud.

The court granted the EFCC’s ex-parte motion for detention pending the conclusion of investigations and potential prosecution.

Subsequently, the EFCC declared all six promoters wanted for their alleged involvement in an investment fraud exceeding $1 billion.

The suspects include Adefowora Abiodun, Adefowora Oluwanisola, Emmanuel Uko, Seyi Oloyede, Avwerosuo Otorudo, and Chukwuebuka Ehirim.

In a motion ex-parte dated and filed on April 23, Yusuf outlined four grounds for the EFCC’s application, asserting the agency’s statutory duty to prevent and investigate financial crimes. 

The EFCC’s affidavit claimed the defendants were at large, necessitating a warrant of arrest to enable proper investigation and prosecution.

After the defendants were declared wanted, Adefowora Abiodun (1st defendant), Avwerosuo Otorudo (5th defendant), and Chukwuebuka Ehirim (6th defendant) surrendered to the EFCC and have since been in custody.

The EFCC alleged that the defendants and their company, ST Technologies International Limited, used CBEX to perpetrate fraud, luring investors with promises of unrealistic returns of up to 100%.

Victims were persuaded to convert digital assets into stablecoin USDT, which was then deposited into the suspects’ crypto wallets.

After securing deposits exceeding $1 billion, victims reportedly lost access to the platform and were unable to withdraw their investments.

The EFCC stated that the scheme was uncovered as fraudulent during investigations.

It was further discovered that ST Technologies International Limited, though registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission, was not authorised by the Securities and Exchange Commission for investment purposes.

During Wednesday’s hearing, Babatunde Busari, representing Abiodun, argued for bail, citing constitutional and statutory provisions that safeguard suspects’ rights.

He emphasised that Abiodun had voluntarily surrendered to the EFCC and had been detained beyond the statutory period without being charged.

Similarly, counsel for Otorudo and Ehirim argued that their clients, who also voluntarily surrendered, should be granted bail. Both defence lawyers assured the court of their client’s willingness to cooperate with investigations.

In opposing the bail applications, EFCC counsel Fadila Yusuf contended that charges had already been filed against the defendants, including allegations of defrauding victims of over $1 billion—a sum exceeding the annual budgets of several Nigerian states.

Yusuf urged the court to deny bail, stressing the gravity of the charges and the ongoing influx of petitions from victims.

The court will rule on the bail applications on June 30.