The National Assembly has urged the Supreme Court to dismiss the suit filed by 11 governors of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), challenging the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State.

Naija News gathered that the federal legislature, in its preliminary objection, contended that the suit was procedurally flawed and lacked merit.

In a document dated April 22, 2025, obtained by Punch on Sunday, the National Assembly argued that the court lacks the jurisdiction to entertain the suit and called for the plaintiffs to be penalised with a ₦1 billion fine for filing a “frivolous and speculative” case.

The suit, filed by the PDP governors, seeks to challenge President Bola Tinubu’s powers to suspend a democratically elected state institution and replace it with an unelected one.

The National Assembly contends that the suit should be dismissed for failing to meet legal standards.

On March 18, 2025, President Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, suspending Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and all elected members of the State House of Assembly for an initial six-month period.

Following the suspension, Tinubu appointed Rear Admiral Ibokette Ibas (retd.) as the sole administrator to oversee the state’s affairs.

The National Assembly had ratified the President’s declaration through a voice vote, but the PDP governors are challenging both the powers of the President and the process used to approve the state of emergency.

In suit number SC/CV/329/2025, the PDP governors from Adamawa, Enugu, Osun, Oyo, Bauchi, Akwa Ibom, Plateau, Delta, Taraba, Zamfara, and Bayelsa States approached the Supreme Court to challenge the President’s authority to suspend a democratically elected state government and replace it with an unelected appointee.

The plaintiffs seek the Court’s determination on several constitutional issues, including whether the President can lawfully suspend or interfere with the offices of a governor and deputy governor, and whether the National Assembly’s approval of the state of emergency through a voice vote contravenes constitutional requirements for a two-thirds majority.

The plaintiffs in the suit are seeking the following declarations:

1. That the President cannot lawfully suspend or interfere with the offices of governors and deputy governors or replace them with unelected appointees under the guise of a state of emergency.

2. That the National Assembly cannot approve a state of emergency declaration by a simple voice vote without a two-thirds majority.

3. A perpetual injunction restraining the defendants from interfering with state offices through state of emergency proclamations.

4. An order nullifying the state of emergency proclamation in Rivers State as published in Official Gazette No. 47 of 2025.

The governors are asking for “An order of perpetual injunction restraining the defendants from suspending or approving the suspension or in any way interfering with the offices of the Governor, the Deputy Governor and /or the House of Assembly of any of the Plaintiffs States by way of a Proclamation of State of Emergency or in any manner whatsoever or by any method howsoever.

“An order setting aside and nullifying the Official Gazette No.47 of 2025, State of Emergency (Rivers State) Proclamation, 2025 made by the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and wrongfully approved by the 2nd Defendant and upon which the ominous threat by the 1st defendant against the Plaintiffs is predicated.”

However, in its preliminary objection, the National Assembly faulted the plaintiffs’ suit and urged the Supreme Court to dismiss it, arguing that the court lacks the jurisdiction to entertain the case, particularly against the second defendant (NASS).

Declaring that it holds a memorandum of conditional appearance, the National Assembly argued that due process was not followed in instituting the suit, emphasising that the plaintiffs failed to issue the statutorily required three-month pre-action notice to the Clerk of the National Assembly, as mandated under Section 21 of the Legislative Houses (Powers and Privileges) Act, 2017.

It stated, “A person who has a cause of action against a Legislative House shall serve a three-month’s notice to the office of the Clerk of the Legislative House disclosing the cause of action and reliefs sought.”

Additionally, NASS argued that the plaintiffs did not secure resolutions from their respective State Houses of Assembly, a prerequisite for approaching the Supreme Court under its original jurisdiction provisions outlined in the Supreme Court (Original Jurisdiction) Act, 2002.

Citing alleged threats referenced in the plaintiffs’ suit, which borders on a statement attributed to the Attorney-General during a press briefing, NASS noted that since the threat did not emanate from them or their officers, the suit has no business with them.

The objection read, “Considering the affidavit in support and the threats alleged, which did not come from the 2nd Defendant, there is no cause of action against it.

“This is a suit relating to an alleged threatened declaration or proclamation of State of emergency in the plaintiffs’ States by the Honourable Attorney General and Minister of Justice. This is allegedly as a result of the statement of the 1st Defendant in a press briefing held March 19, 2025, wherein he is said to have stated that after Rivers State, ..it can be anybody’s turn tomorrow…,’ None of the alleged threat or statement is alluded to the 2nd Defendant or any of its officers.”

The N’Assembly further contended, “With the objection amongst others submitted, due process of instituting the action in the suit was not followed by the plaintiffs before taking this steps against the 2nd Defendants as the plaintiffs failed to issue the requisite three months pre-action notice to the Clerk of the National Assembly and took no steps to obtain the resolutions of the Houses of Assembly of each of the States to enable the plaintiffs each join to approach this busy Court pursuant to the provision of the Supreme Court (Original Jurisdiction) Act 2002 on the matters.”

NASS asserted that the plaintiffs were attempting to use the Supreme Court to dictate how it exercises its constitutional role, particularly regarding the use of voice votes to ratify states of emergency under section 305 of the 1999 Constitution.

The objection described the suit as speculative and an abuse of the court process.

It also stated, “In the suit, the Plaintiffs seek to use the court to curtail the manner in which the 2nd defendant votes or make approval to ratify proclamations of State of Emergency declared pursuant to section 305 of the CFRN 1999, to get the 2/3 majority of their votes.

“It also seeks that the Court dictates how much roles are to be performed by the 2nd Defendant. The suit seeks to restrain the 2nd defendant from using voice votes to get majority approval for future or anticipated Proclamations of States of Emergency in the States of the Plaintiff.

“The suit also seeks by perpetual injunction, to restrain the second defendant’s Houses (Senate /House of Assembly) from carrying out their constitutional duties of approval of Proclamations of State of Emergency and seeks that the approval given by the 2nd Defendant on the 20th day of March, 2025, ratifying the proclamation of State of Emergency in Rivers State be set aside for being wrongfully approved.”

NASS further added, “The 2nd Defendant/Applicant having observed the several deficiencies in the suit of the Plaintiffs which go contrary to the provisions of the laws and the jurisdiction of the Court raises objection and submits that the 11 States (Plaintiffs) approached the Court wrongly and in abuse of court process.”

It predicated its objection on six grounds, stating that the plaintiffs’ suit lacks a cause of action.

The National Assembly further stated that the plaintiffs lack locus standi to proceed against the second defendant on the issues raised in the suit.

It also argued that the plaintiffs failed to comply with due process as stipulated under section 2, Schedule 2 of the Supreme Court (Additional Original Jurisdiction) Act, 2002.

The 2nd defendant noted that the “court lacks jurisdiction.”

In an affidavit supporting the notice of preliminary objection, a legal officer in the Directorate of Legal Services in the National Assembly, Godswill Onyegbu, argued that due process was not followed in instituting the suit.

Onyegbu maintained that no dispute exists between the plaintiffs and either the Government of Nigeria or the second defendant, (NASS).

He further deposed that, “The plaintiffs did not obtain the required resolutions from the Houses of Assembly in their respective states to authorise the suit under the Supreme Court’s original jurisdiction.

“There is no cause of action against the second defendant, as no threat emanated from the second defendant’s office.

“That the plaintiffs lack the locus standi to institute this suit as none of the plaintiffs has shown that it has suffered anything far and above any other persons or people of Rivers State.

“There are no disputes involving questions of law or fact upon which the existence or extent of a legal right depends between the parties.

“The plaintiffs have not established any legal rights against the second defendant to warrant equitable relief such as a perpetual injunction.”

He noted that the Supreme Court lacks jurisdiction to hear the matter against the second defendant as constituted.

In addition to requesting the dismissal of the suit, Onyegbu called for a cost of ₦1 billion to be awarded jointly and severally against the plaintiffs in the interest of justice.

“That the Plaintiffs’ States’ Houses of Assembly did not pass any resolution by a simple majority of the members present and sitting at the time of the resolution authorising the plaintiffs to institute this action.

“That the plaintiffs have not established any legal rights against the 2nd defendant to enjoy the equitable remedy of perpetual injunction.

“That the suit of the plaintiffs is speculative, unfounded, frivolous and a vexatious waste of resources, time and energy of the 2nd defendant.

“That the present court lacks the jurisdiction to entertain this matter as presently constituted against the 2nd defendants.

“That it is in the best interest of justice for the Court to dismiss or strike out this suit against the 2nd defendant with a cost of N1b only, jointly and severally against the plaintiffs,” the affidavit read.

Industry experts divided

’It’s politically targeted at the North’

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is intensifying its investigation into alleged financial mismanagement at the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), focusing on approximately $2.96 billion allocated for refinery repairs.

Several high-ranking former officials, including former Managing Directors of the Port Harcourt, Warri, and Kaduna refineries, are under scrutiny, with multiple arrests already reported.

A source close to the investigation told Sunday Vanguard that the scope of the investigation is wide.

He said: “The investigation into alleged financial mismanagement at NNPCL is advancing rapidly and covers a wide scope. We have already uncovered compelling evidence of significant misappropriation of funds, including large sums traced to the personal accounts of former officials.”

The source further said:”A key focus of our probe is the $2.96 billion earmarked for refinery repairs. We are meticulously tracking the flow of these funds to establish how they were diverted.”

As of the time of filing this report, it remains unclear whether Mele Kyari, the immediate past Group Chief Executive Officer/Managing Director of NNPCL, has been arrested or has voluntarily presented himself for questioning.

The investigation is specifically examining funds allocated for the quick-fix maintenance of Nigeria’s refineries, which have long suffered from persistent operational challenges.

Preliminary findings indicate that $1.56 billion was allocated to the Port Harcourt Refinery, $740 million to the Kaduna Refinery, and $657 million to the Warri Refinery.

As the EFCC prepares for further arrests in the coming days, the agency is working closely with NNPCL to secure critical financial records and interview key witnesses.

“This is not a superficial inquiry. It is a determined effort to root out corruption and hold those responsible fully accountable. The stakes are high, as this investigation is vital to restoring integrity and public confidence in the oil sector,” the source stressed.

Meanwhile, the Commission has formally requested detailed financial records from NNPCL, including documentation of emoluments and allowances, to support its ongoing investigation.

EFCC spokesman, Dele Oyewale, could not be reached for comment, as he is currently on official assignment abroad.
However, experts in Nigeria’s oil and gas industry were divided on the matter.

Reacting to the probe in an interview with Sunday Vanguard, yesterday, Iledare Wumi, Professor Emeritus in Petroleum Economics and Policy Executive Director, Emmanuel Egbogah Foundation, said: “I am not in a position to provide a definitive statement or to judge matters of guilt or innocence regarding the public allegations of funding misalignment relative to intended objectives.

“However, the documented operational inefficiencies of the NNPCL refineries remain a significant concern. The substantial financial outlays committed since 2021 to the repair and refurbishment of these facilities highlight the broader consequences of transactionalism in Nigeria.

“This leadership approach, which seems to characterize governance in the Nigerian oil and gas sector, continues to undermine the growth objectives outlined in the Petroleum Industry Act, PIA.

“Looking ahead, I firmly believe that a shift in leadership mindset towards a shared vision, focused on prosperity for future generations is essential. Only a transformational mindset can reject the practice of retaining public funds in financial institutions for personal gain.

“The prevailing transactionalism is inadequate to effectively govern Nigeria’s oil and gas sector. Perhaps a restructured NNPCL, with a deliberate and meaningful change, will mark the beginning of a truly transformative era for the Nigerian oil and gas industry.”

On his part, an Abuja-based oil and gas expert, who pleaded anonymity, said: “The investigation is politically-motivated against the North, whose politicians have vowed to oppose President Bola Tinubu in the next presidential election.

“The investigation would likely compel many northerners to defect to the ruling APC and support President Tinubu’s second term bid. From all indications, it is partly targeted at weakening opposition and attracting more loyalists.”

Suspended gov’s push for survival

Since March 18, 2025 when President Bola Ahmed Tinubu declared a state of emergency, there has been relative peace in Rivers State.

The eventual suspension of Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, Prof Ngozi Ordu, and the entire Legislative Arm of government is the biggest setback that may likely affect the economy and other social fabrics of the state.

For close to two months, Fubara has been stripped of the paraphernalia of office as governor elected by his people in 2023.

Having understood what it means to stay inactive without political power for this long, the suspended governor has chosen to go full throttle to seek for genuine peace with his mentor, Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT.

It was reported that on April 18, Fubara came down from his high horse and went to meet Wike in his Abuja residence to ask for forgiveness.

Why the suspended governor chose to meet with the Minister in the company of some respected Yoruba political leaders like Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State and former Governor Segun Osoba, among others, other than the elders in Rivers State, is relatively understandable.

The FCT Minister believes that some of the elders in Rivers State were those stoking the embers of crisis between him and Fubara.

Political problems

These elders, nearly all of them, had political problems with Wike in 2023 because of the presidential candidate of the PDP, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, in the run-up to the general elections.

After the PDP presidential congress, where Atiku emerged as the favorite to confront the APC candidate, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Wike felt betrayed and refused to support Atiku.

A time was also when Wike thought he could be compensated with the running mate slot, again, PDP backtracked and went for Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, then governor of Delta State.

Okowa has since defected to the APC he contested against as the PDP vice presidential candidate.

Recall that the Atiku supporters had all abandoned Rivers and relocated to Abuja to give support to his dream of becoming the next President.

Wike was the man alone at home showcasing Fubara in the campaigns to become governor.

Some of the Atiku supporters openly condemned the choice of Fubara as governor, wondering what political sense Wike was mooting to play up a political neophyte as the next governor of a sensitive state like Rivers.

While Wike attempted to calibrate his political structure in support of Tinubu of APC, the likes of Prince Uche Secondus, a former National Chairman of the PDP, Dr. Abiye Sekibo, Sir Celestine Omehia, Rt. Hon Austin Opara, Senator Lee Meaba and Tele Ikuru, among others, formed a formidable political bloc against Wike in the state.

But when the table turned and Wike became the FCT Minister and relocated to Abuja, these elders took the reverse flight back to Port Harcourt and suddenly began to give Fubara the energy to stand up to a man who made him governor against all odds.

This set of politicians formed what looked like an iron cast structure for Fubara with a deliberate design to castigated Wike in the war against then governor.

This same bloc of politicians was alleged to have asked the governor to have a rethink in his implementation of the 8-point peace agreement initiated by President Tinubu. This presidential move could have, according to some analysts, ushered peace into the state a long time ago.

Nevertheless, in his wisdom, Fubara has come to clearly realize that only genuine peace devoid of intrigues can resolve the lingering political tension in Rivers.

This explains why he has chosen to walk the path of peace alone without the involvement of the Rivers elders.

Undoubtedly, the suspended governor has seen that Wike has what it takes to take the fight to its conclusion which was initiated to end in impeachment but the intervention of the president with the tool of state of emergency to stop what would have been the end of Fubara’s political career.

Wike has the financial war-chest. He enjoys the backing of Tinubu. He is a master strategist in all forms and shapes.
Dealing with a man of this political caliber would only call for wisdom and that is exactly what Fubara chose to do even if it meant standing alone.

In his last media chat in Abuja, Wike had made it clear that if Fubara should genuinely apologize to him, he would let go. A fortnight ago, the governor made a trip to London enroute Frankfurt, Germany where he met with the president in a closed door meeting.

Details

The details of their discussion in that meeting were not divulged but close sources believe that it was the prelude to a symbiotic agreement for the betterment of Tinubu’s re-election in 2027 while Fubara returns as governor.

Having met with the president, Fubara never rested on his oars.

He went on a remorseful visit to Wike to let him know how sorry he was and begged for forgiveness.
It is not clear what lies in the offing after the two high stake meetings.

But Nigerians are of the opinion that having shown sufficient regrets for his actions or inactions, Fubara deserves to be reinstated.

There are speculations that Tinubu, who is alleged to be under intense pressure by prominent Nigerians, may reinstate the suspended governor by May 29. “Everything is in the realm of speculations”, said Prince Ogbonna Nwuke, a former member of the House of Representatives.

“I think as a democrat, the president should use the May 29, which is a big day in our country’s political history, to convince the whole world that he is indeed a true democrat by reinstating Governor Fubara , his deputy and the House of Assembly”.

On her part, Ann Kio Briggs, spokesperson for Ijaw Republican Assembly, IRA, believes that reinstatement of Fubara on May 29 would make more sense to the people of the state.

“He has to be reinstated on May 29, being Democracy Day, so that the governor can join his colleague governors to celebrate his second year in office”.

Briggs explained that the entire Rivers people will appreciate Tinubu if he could “bring back our governor on May 29. That is our Democracy Day. It will bring a lot of succor to the people of the state who have suffered as a result of the crisis in the past two years”.

History

Corroborating the IRA’s spokesperson, the President of Ijaw National Congress, INC, Prof Benjamin Okaba, said Tinubu would make history if he reinstates Fubara on May 29 as with stringent lines drawn to demarcate power play between the two warring factions.
“Fubara’s visits to the President and Wike are welcome developments. The president can make history by returning Fubara earlier than expected”, he said.

“Besides, he should make himself the president of all Nigerians, not to a particular person. Let the Minister mind his job in Abuja and allow the Rivers people to enjoy the governor they voted for.

“I am not interested whether Fubara wants to defect to APC or not. After all, our politicians do not have ideology. And the country is cascading to a one party state. “What we want is his return to power for the interest of Rivers people”.

For Dr. Joseph Ambakederimo, Convener of the South-South Reawakening Group, SSRG, “Fubara has shown that he is a man of peace. He has shown enough remorse and deserves to return to his duty post.

“The stakes are high. Expectations are also high. Nigerians are eagerly waiting to hear what Mr. President will have to tell us on Democracy Day.

“I know that the president won’t disappoint. Our prayer is that Fubara should be returned to power. I was privileged to meet with him recently in Port Harcourt and I saw a man who was ready to do anything for the sake of peace”.

More than anything else, what is more worrisome to the Rivers people is the terms of agreement between the FCT Minister and the suspended governor for the return of peace in the state and his subsequent return to power.

There are speculations that appointment of commissioners must be shared in a formula that will give the Abuja bloc a comfortable stand.

This same formula will apply to the appointment of all offices when normal democratic institutions are restored.
For local government elections which were earlier scheduled to be conducted on August 9, “the Minister’s interest will be highly protected”, a source privy to the arrangement hinted.

“The template has been set already. There is a change in the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission, RSIEC.

“Interested contestants would be selected, it does not matter which political parties they belong. They will be there to serve the interest of those who nominated them”.

How then will Fubara’s second coming to office look like? Is he going to be a puppet governor who will dance whenever the string is pulled from outside the state?

What will be the political fate of the Atiku supporters (elders) when normalcy returns and Fubara returns to the saddle? All eyes are on May 29 while Nigerians sit on edge.

The Obedient Movement in Delta State has declared that the All Progressives Congress (APC) cannot win any free and fair election in Nigeria, citing the party’s poor national track record and growing public discontent.

Speaking at a press conference held over the weekend in Asaba, Chairman of the Delta Obedients Elders Council, Chief Chris Boise, dismissed the recent defection of some Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) members into the APC in the state, saying the move would not affect the political dynamics in Delta.

His words: “We are not bothered one bit about the fusion of PDP elements into APC.

“Their justification that this defection would foster development is hollow when viewed against APC’s abysmal governance at the national level over the past decade.”

Boise referenced the 2023 presidential election to reinforce his point, noting that Labour Party candidate Peter Obi secured a decisive lead in Delta State, winning 341,866 votes compared to Atiku Abubakar’s 161,600 and Bola Tinubu’s 90,183 votes.

He accused the APC-led federal government of dragging Nigeria into economic collapse and heightening insecurity, describing the current administration as one sustained not by performance or popular support, but by a “narrow elite” bent on consolidating power.Nigerian political art prints

“Since the APC took over in May 2015, the country has experienced a surge in insecurity, especially from armed Fulani herders, whose activities have devastated farming communities across Nigeria,” he said.

Chief Boise urged Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to take urgent steps to bolster local security by empowering community vigilantes to defend citizens from further attacks by armed invaders.

According to the World Bank's April 2025 Poverty and Equity Brief, poverty among Nigeria's rural population has reached a critical 75.5%, underscoring growing inequality across the country. This rate is nearly double the urban poverty rate of 41.3%.

The report reveals that overall poverty in Nigeria continues to display stark regional disparities. Northern geopolitical zones recorded a 46.5% poverty rate in 2018/19, compared to just 13.5% in southern regions. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, 30.9% of Nigerians lived below the international extreme poverty line of $2.15 per day.

Economic circumstances have deteriorated since then, with World Bank projections estimating that by 2024, over 54% of Nigerians would be living in poverty. The report attributes this to multiple factors including economic shocks, rising insecurity, and persistent inflation.

The crisis disproportionately affects certain demographic groups. Children aged 0-14 face a 72.5% poverty rate, while adults without formal education experience a 79.5% poverty rate. Even those with secondary education show a 50% poverty rate, compared to 25.4% for those with tertiary education.

Multidimensional poverty indicators further illustrate the challenges: 32.6% lack access to limited-standard drinking water, 45.1% don't have limited-standard sanitation, and 39.4% have no electricity access.

The World Bank notes that poverty reduction had nearly stagnated before the pandemic, declining by only half a percentage point annually since 2010. This slow progress is attributed to structural economic challenges, particularly Nigeria's continued dependence on oil and vulnerability to climate shocks affecting agriculture.

Since 2018/19, an estimated 42 million additional Nigerians have fallen into poverty. Recent macroeconomic reforms have begun stabilizing the economy, but high inflation continues to erode purchasing power, with labor incomes failing to keep pace with rising costs.

The World Bank recommends urgent reforms to protect the poorest from inflation and boost livelihoods through productive employment. While acknowledging government efforts like temporary cash transfers targeting 15 million households, the report emphasizes the need for stronger social protection systems, investments in education, health, and infrastructure, and economic diversification beyond the oil sector.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Former Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kyari, has denied reports that he is in the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Recently, there were reports that Kyari and several other top NNPCL officials—who were recently removed from their positions—were being questioned over alleged misuse of funds and abuse of office. One report even claimed Kyari had been taken into EFCC custody on Friday and might spend the weekend there.

The EFCC has not officially responded to the claims. However, a letter believed to be from the anti-corruption agency has surfaced online. In the letter addressed to Bayo Ojulari, the new head of NNPCL, the EFCC requested certified true copies of payment records and benefits of 14 senior officials. This includes those who have already retired.

Those listed in the letter are: Abubakar Lawal Yar’Adua, Mustapha Magaji Sugungun, Mele Kolo Kyari, Kayode Olusegun Adetokunbo, Isiaka Abdulrazak, Efiok Michael Akpan, Umar Ajiya, Babatunde Bakare, Dikko Ahmed, Jimoh Olasunkanmi, Ibrahim Onoja, Bello Kankaya, Ademoye Adeniyi Jelli, and Desmond Inyama.

In response to the reports, Kyari issued a statement on his verified X handle on Saturday night to clarify the situation.

His words: I served not only my country but also God. I am happy to account for my stewardship.

Over the past few days and in particular in the past 2 hours, I have been inundated with calls from concerned family and friends over claims by an online newspaper that I was in the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.

This is clear mischief and a calculated attempt by the newspaper and its sponsors to achieve a desired outcome, which only them know.

At present, I am taking a well-deserved rest after the dissolution of the management and board of the NNPCL, of which I was the Group Chief Executive.

It should be stated that having served the NNPC and the NNPCL for 34 years, and 17 of those in management roles and especially the last 5 years and 9 months, I had little time for leave of even two weeks. So, I am thankful for the opportunity to serve under their Excellencies Presidents Muhammadu Buhari and Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

I must emphasize that I served with the fear of God knowing fully well as a Muslim that if I do not account before man, I will account before Allah, and that I am better off accounting to the institutions of man. Therefore, having served in public capacity, I am willing and happy to account for my stewardship in this world.

However, it is important to state that the resort to disinformation does not serve anyones purpose, the NNPCL or the country in general, as it has the potential to send the wrong signals to investors and the international community.

It is in this regard that I urge the media to be circumspect and avoid being stampeded into misleading the public on unverified stories or matters that are subject of further validation by relevant organizations.

I sincerely thank my family and friends who have reached out to me or tried to do so and assure them that I am available to respond to all lawful queries.

Ohanaeze Ndigbo has said that the Minister of Works, David Umahi has done more for the people of the Southeast region than political leaders like Peter Obi, a former governor of Anambra State and Hope Uzodimma of Imo State.

The apex socio-political Igbo group said it was committed to the progress of the Southeast region and would be throwing its support for President Bola Tinubu’s second-term ambition.

Ohanaeze said this declaration is in alignment with the vision and leadership prowess showcased by Umahi who the group described as its newly appointed Igbo National Political Leader.

In a statement signed by Okechukwu Isiguzoro and Thompson Ohia, the Deputy President General and the National Spokesperson of the group respectively, Ohanaeze said it has reviewed the contributions made by various leaders from the region.

According to the group, its findings show that Umahi tops the list of Igbo leaders who are committed to the development of the region and the welfare of the people of Southeast.

The statement said, “The findings from this comprehensive analysis present an irrefutable case that Senator Dave Umahi’s leadership distinguishes itself above all others, particularly in contrast to Mr. Peter Obi and Governor Hope Uzodinma.”

The group added that while they respect the contributions made by other leaders including Obi and Uzodimma, that of Umahi is second to none.

The statement added, “As the Chairman of the Southeast Governors’ Forum, he effectively negotiated significant upgrades with the Federal Government, such as the enhancement of the Francis Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu, transitioning it to full international operational status complete with cutting-edge facilities.

“Additionally, he championed the establishment of a second international airport in Abakaliki, thereby amplifying the region’s connectivity,” it added.

It also said that Umahi’s 21 months of service as Minister has been quite impactful, especially in his “revolutionary” infrastructural projects in the region among many other feats.

“As President Tinubu approaches the two-year milestone of his presidency on May 29, 2027, Ohanaeze Ndigbo conveys our unwavering assurance that Senator Dave Umahi is the singular, trusted political leader of the Southeast, endowed with the mandate to enhance our collective voice in support of President Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027,” the statement said.

Nigeria on Saturday paid its final respects to Pa Samuel Ayo Adebanjo, the late elder statesman, nationalist, and leader of the Pan-Yoruba socio-political group, Afenifere, in a ceremony marked by glowing tributes, national reflection, and calls for purposeful leadership. The funeral, held at St. Philip’s Anglican Church in Isanya-Ogbo, Ijebu, Ogun State, drew an assembly of prominent Nigerian political figures, clerics, and civil society leaders.

Among the dignitaries present were former President Olusegun Obasanjo, former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi, and governors Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos), and Seyi Makinde (Oyo). Also in attendance were former Ogun governors Gbenga Daniel and Ibikunle Amosun, former Minister of Education Oby Ezekwesili, CBN Governor Yemi Cardoso, NADECO leader Ayo Opadokun, and several senators, including Kofoworola Bucknor-Akerele, Femi Okurounmu, and Adegbenga Kaka.

The remains of the late Adebanjo, described as one of the last disciples of Obafemi Awolowo, were laid to rest at his residence in Odoogbolu Local Government Area, Ogun State, at approximately 1:54 p.m.

A Life of Purpose and Principle

In his sermon themed “The Glory of a Purposeful Life,” Olusina Fape, the Bishop of the Diocese of Remo and Archbishop of the Ecclesiastical Province of Lagos, hailed Adebanjo as a “progressive democrat par excellence” who lived with conviction and consistency, unlike many contemporary politicians he described as “chameleons” who jump between parties without clear ideology.

Fape emphasized that Adebanjo’s political career—from the Action Group to the Alliance for Democracy—was defined by loyalty to principle rather than opportunism. He lamented that the passing of ideologically grounded figures like Adebanjo and Awolowo could deepen the emergence of political parties without clear philosophical foundations.

“He never compromised his beliefs for political gain. His life reflected the ideals of honesty, integrity, and fearless commitment to truth and justice.”

Fape warned that many modern politicians lacked purpose, seeking only power and wealth, and called for a generational reassessment of political motives. Quoting Myles Munroe, he said, “When the purpose of a thing is not known, abuse becomes inevitable.” He charged Nigerians to reflect on whether their lives would be remembered for meaning and service.

A Voice for Justice and Federalism

In his tribute, Governor Dapo Abiodun described Adebanjo as a “dogged crusader for true federalism” and a symbol of Yoruba resistance to marginalization and cultural erosion. He said Adebanjo’s fierce opposition to military rule, his activism during the June 12 crisis, and his enduring support for democratic ideals made him a “moral compass” in Nigeria’s turbulent political history.

“Chief Adebanjo stood as a firm advocate of justice, fairness, and the rule of law. He was never silent in the face of injustice and nepotism,” Abiodun said.

The governor also likened Adebanjo’s philosophy to that of Martin Luther King Jr., saying the late leader believed deeply in the principle that “injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.”

A National Icon, a Federalist to the End

In a condolence message read during the service, former Head of State Abdulsalami Abubakar described Adebanjo as “a great federalist, a reliable and consistent fighter for democracy,” noting that his life’s work should serve as a model for current and future generations.

Abubakar acknowledged that the void left by Adebanjo’s passing would be hard to fill but urged Nigerians to hold firmly to the principles the late icon embodied.

The funeral of Pa Ayo Adebanjo, though marking the end of a significant chapter in Nigeria’s political journey, served as a stirring reminder of the power of purposeful leadership, ideological consistency, and unwavering dedication to national unity.

Over 300 members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the New Nigeria Peoples Party have defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kaduna State.

The politicians defected from the parties’ wards in Kawo, Kaduna North Local Government Area of the state on Saturday, May 3, 2025.

Jamilu Haruna, the Permanent Secretary of the Kaduna State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) described the move by the defectors as an indication that the State governor, Uba Sani has performed well.

Haruna who spoke at a reception for the defectors said that within two years since he assumed office, the governor has exceeded the expectations of the people of the state.

“This defection is not a surprise to us because all the genuine members of the opposition have seen the giant strides of Governor Uba Sani in security improvements, educational development, food security and overall well-being of the citizens.

“These achievements have stood our Governor our even among his colleagues and endeared him to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which is a clear indication that, Kaduna stands to benefit more from the Federal Government for the overall benefit of the citizens,” Haruna noted.

He also welcomed the defectors to the ruling party while assuring them of mutual respect and possible opportunities that would help them thrive in their political careers.

Also speaking, the leader of the defectors, Usman Muhammad who was the Kaduna Central Senatorial Aspirant of the PDP confirmed that he led a total of 225 politicians from the party to APC.

He said they joined the ruling party over their conviction of the inclusive leadership style showcased by the governor.

Nyesom Wike, minister of the federal capital territory (FCT), has blamed Siminalayi Fubara for the walkout on First Lady Oluremi Tinubu’s empowerment programme.

The minister described the incident as “disturbing and embarrassing”. 

On Friday, a group of women walked out of a Renewed Hope Initiative event in Port Harcourt, the Rivers capital, while demanding the reinstatement of Fubara, suspended governor of the state.  

The event was part of an initiative to support 500 women across the state.

In a statement issued on Saturday by Lere Olayinka, his senior special assistant on public communications and social media, Wike condemned the walkout and apologised to President Bola Tinubu and the first lady.

‘INSULT ON THE OFFICE OF PRESIDENT’

“Insult on anyone representing the first lady of Nigeria in an event is a direct insult on the office of the president and commander-in-chief of the armed forces of the federal republic of Nigeria,” Wike said.

“As a leader in Rivers state, I apologise.” 

The former governor, who is currently in China on an official engagement, implored Fubara’s supporters to stop soiling the image of the state.

Wike accused the governor of double-speak, urging him to be sincere in his engagements with the presidency.

In April, Fubara reportedly met with Tinubu in London over the protracted political crisis that culminated in his suspension.

“It is not enough to be visiting people to plead for peace. Those who genuinely want peace work and act for it,” Wike added.

“These are the same people pleading for peace, but at the same time doing things that are contrary to what they are pleading for.

“How can you say you want peace and at the same time, you are sponsoring people to insult everyone, including the president and his wife?

“All those shenanigans won’t bring peace, and I am sure they know that, because they are not sincere with their up-and-down pleadings for peace.”

Wike said he and his supporters “condemn” the protest “in totality”.

“We apologise to our first lady for the embarrassing conduct of those few women who do not reflect the values and ideals of Rivers state,” he added.

BACKGROUND

On March 18, Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers, citing the prolonged political crisis.

He also suspended Fubara, his deputy, Ngozi Odu; and all members of the Rivers assembly for an initial period of six months.

The president appointed Ibok-Ete Ibas, a retired naval chief, as the state’s sole administrator.

After his appointment, Ibas suspended all political officeholders appointed by Fubara.

The Rivers governor returned to the country from a two-week vacation on Friday.