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  • APC group demands halt to impeachment move against Fubara

    APC group demands halt to impeachment move against Fubara

    …says action violates constitution and Tinubu-brokered peace

    The APC Progressive Mandate Group has called for an immediate halt to the impeachment proceedings against Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Ngozi Odu, describing the process as constitutionally defective, politically driven, and a clear breach of the peace accord personally facilitated by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    In a statement issued on Thursday and signed by Comrade Ayodele Alonge, the group warned that the impeachment move, already initiated in the Rivers State House of Assembly, is being prosecuted on what it termed a faulty legal foundation. It urged lawmakers to suspend the process to prevent further destabilisation of the state.

    According to the group, the ongoing proceedings lack the constitutional and procedural legitimacy required for such a consequential action.

    It added that beyond legal infractions, the move represents a direct affront to the President, who last year brokered peace between Governor Fubara, Minister Nyesom Wike, and members of the Rivers State House of Assembly. The group said the development jeopardises the fragile stability restored through that intervention.

    The Assembly had earlier levelled allegations against Fubara, including extra-budgetary spending, demolition of the Assembly complex, withholding funds meant for the Assembly Service Commission, and alleged failure to comply with a Supreme Court ruling on legislative autonomy. He is also accused of unconstitutional expenditure and obstructing the Assembly’s statutory duties.

    The group recalled that President Tinubu’s intervention last year resolved tensions that threatened governance in Rivers State, leading to a reconciliation agreement signed by Fubara and Wike under the President’s supervision. It argued that any attempt to overturn that agreement is reckless and challenges the President’s authority.

    It further dismissed the Assembly’s reliance on the Rivers State budget passed by the National Assembly during emergency rule, insisting that lawmakers have no legal authority to question its implementation.

    The APC Progressive Mandate Group noted that Fubara’s defection from the Peoples Democratic Party to the APC in December 2025 triggered a series of high-profile defections into the ruling party. Among those who have joined are former PDP national chairman Uche Secondus, former Governor Peter Odili and his wife, Justice Mary Odili, as well as at least five members of the House of Representatives from Rivers State.

    The group stated that Fubara has expanded the APC’s influence in Rivers State by fostering partnerships with influential leaders and lawmakers, thereby strengthening the party’s national relevance. It warned that the impeachment effort risks eroding the political gains achieved through dialogue and reconciliation.

    It also criticised the role of Wike and his loyalists in the Assembly, alleging that the impeachment push is driven more by political sabotage than governance concerns.

    Read Also: BREAKING: Rivers Assembly initiates impeachment proceedings against Fubara, Deputy

    “For long, the narrative has painted Governor Fubara as the source of instability. It is now evident that the effort to destabilise Rivers stems from a faction led by Minister Wike and sympathetic legislators who are intent on dismantling the peace that President Tinubu painstakingly facilitated. Their ambition is undermining state cohesion and the broader democratic order.

    “Wike must also be called upon to face his duty as FCT minister or resign immediately. Wike’s current role in the latest impeachment proceedings against Fubara is an insult to the president, who showed uncommon courage in appointing him as a minister, despite his membership in the PDP,” the group said.

    The statement urged the National Assembly to intervene, warning that inaction could set a dangerous precedent for other states.

    “We call on the National Assembly to uphold constitutional order and intervene decisively. The federal legislature must ensure that due process and legal propriety are respected in Rivers State. Let it be clear that the actions of a few cannot dictate the political destiny of an entire state,” Alonge added.

    The group also demanded an immediate halt to the impeachment and an apology to the President.

    “This impeachment is not corrective; it is a political misadventure. Halting the process and acknowledging the President’s role in restoring peace is essential, not just for Rivers State, but for the credibility of democratic governance in Nigeria. Those behind this disruption must understand that attempts to subvert national reconciliation will neither succeed nor be tolerated,” the statement added.

  • Ex-Ghana Finance Minister Ofori-Atta detained by US immigration authorities

    Ex-Ghana Finance Minister Ofori-Atta detained by US immigration authorities

    Former Ghanaian Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta has been detained by U.S. immigration authorities amid ongoing corruption allegations in his home country, according to a statement released by his lawyers.

    Ofori-Atta, 66, has been in the United States since January last year for medical treatment, including surgery for prostate cancer. His legal team said he had applied to extend his stay in the country while undergoing treatment.

    In a statement issued on Wednesday, his lawyers confirmed that officers of the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) took him into custody on Tuesday over “the status of his current stay in the United States.”

    Read Also: Zion Oshiobugie organises first-ever TEDxYouth event in Milton Keynes

    The former minister was declared a fugitive by Ghanaian authorities in February last year and was formally charged with corruption in November. Despite this, his lawyers said Ofori-Atta is fully cooperating with US immigration officials and expressed confidence that the issue would be resolved swiftly.

    ICE’s online detainee locator shows that Ofori-Atta is currently being held at a facility in the US state of Virginia.

    Ofori-Atta served as Ghana’s finance minister from 2017 to 2024 under former President Nana Akufo-Addo, a tenure characterized by controversial tax reforms and high-profile negotiations with the International Monetary Fund aimed at stabilizing Ghana’s economy.

    The detention added a new international dimension to the legal and political challenges facing the former finance minister as proceedings continue in Ghana.

  • Niger youths solidly behind Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda — Limateef

    Niger youths solidly behind Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda — Limateef

    The newly appointed Director of the Niger State Chapter of the City Boy Movement, Ambassador Ahmad Abubakar, popularly known as Oga Limateef, has expressed appreciation to the leadership of the movement over his appointment, assuring that youths in Niger State remain firmly aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.

    Limateef, a leading youth advocate and Founder/Chief Executive Officer of Limateef Group, described the appointment as a call to service and a clear reflection of the growing confidence in the role of young people in national development.

    He specifically thanked Mr. Seyi Tinubu for what he described as consistent leadership, vision, and mentorship, noting that his example continues to motivate young Nigerians to embrace purposeful engagement, unity, and civic responsibility.

    The Niger State Director also expressed appreciation to the Director-General of the City Boy Movement, Hon. Francis Shoga, for finding him worthy of the responsibility and entrusting him with the task of mobilising and coordinating youths across the state in support of the Federal Government’s development agenda.

    According to Limateef, youths in Niger State remain fully supportive of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, citing visible interventions and sustained engagements with the state as key drivers of trust and confidence.

    He referenced major milestones such as President Tinubu’s visit to Niger State for the inauguration of the Food Security and Agricultural Mechanisation Programme, the commissioning of modern farming equipment under Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, and the remodelling and commissioning of the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport in Minna.

    He also noted the administration’s swift interventions during periods of emergency as further evidence of the President’s commitment to the welfare of the people of Niger State.

    Limateef also acknowledged the humanitarian intervention of the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, who donated N1 billion through the Renewed Hope Initiative to victims of the flood disaster in Mokwa Local Government Area.

    He described the gesture as a demonstration of empathy and responsive leadership, adding that her visit to elder statesmen, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida and General Abdulsalami Abubakar (rtd), whom she referred to as “fathers of the nation,” underscored her respect for leadership and national unity.

    He further commended the youth-focused engagements of Seyi Tinubu in Niger State through the Renewed Hope Youth Engagement Initiative (RHYE), particularly his outreach to young people during his Ramadan visit to Minna, noting that such engagements have strengthened youth participation, trust, and inclusion in governance.

    Limateef said these engagements clearly demonstrate that the First Family holds Niger State in high regard, assuring that the people and youths of the state will continue to give their support and goodwill to the Tinubu administration.

    Reaffirming his commitment, he assured that the City Boy Movement in Niger State will continue to mobilise, sensitise, and engage young people through constructive dialogue, unity, and development-oriented initiatives in line with the Renewed Hope vision.

    “This appointment is an opportunity to serve. Niger youths are fully on board with the Renewed Hope Agenda, and we remain committed to contributing positively to its success through unity, inclusion, and active civic engagement,” he said.

  • Bod Olaibi, Don Jazzy, Funke Akindele ranked among Africa’s top 50 visibility leaders

    Bod Olaibi, Don Jazzy, Funke Akindele ranked among Africa’s top 50 visibility leaders

    Bod Olaibi, a brand and project management consultant, has been named among the “50 African Personalities and Brands Who Have Mastered the Art of Visibility” by Visibility 50 Africa, a continental project of Visibility Solutions Media (2025), recognizing individuals and brands that have successfully built influence, relevance, and impact through strategic visibility.

    Olaibi, who works with startups across Nigeria and the African diaspora, specializes in digital marketing strategy, brand positioning, and campaign execution. Combining creativity with operational precision, he helps founders turn vision into measurable growth, shaping commercially viable and culturally relevant brands.

    He is also the founder of The Broadstreets, an innovative online grocery subscription platform aimed at alleviating frustrations faced by Nigerians in the diaspora. With degrees in Digital Marketing and Business Administration, Olaibi has become a trusted partner for founders seeking sustainable growth in competitive markets.

    Read Also: Don Jazzy defends donation to ‘beneficiary’ amid social media backlash

    Reflecting on his recognition, Olaibi said, “For many years, I preferred to maintain a low profile. Despite my strong work ethic and loyal clientele, I often stayed behind the scenes. But insights from PR strategist Kehinde Ajose reminded me that staying ‘low key’ limits growth, and that visibility is essential for impact. That message shifted my perspective.”

    Olaibi emphasised that his approach to visibility remains authentic. “Although I enjoy a low-key lifestyle, I’m intentional about presenting my brand in ways that are true to who I am. I don’t post to show off; my goal is to create content that motivates, uplifts, and inspires the everyday person,” he said.

    He added, “I want people to engage with my story without feeling pressured or comparing themselves. My intention is not to make anyone wonder, ‘When will it be my turn?’ but to remind them that their own journey is valid and unfolding in its own time.”

    The 2025 Visibility 50 Africa list also features notable names such as Davido, Femi Otedola, Tony Elumelu, Wizkid, Asake, Omoni Oboli, Don Jazzy, Funke Akindele, and others, highlighting the continent’s most influential figures in personal and brand visibility.

  • Why I cut ties with three close friends – Ayra Starr’s mother

    Why I cut ties with three close friends – Ayra Starr’s mother

    Nene Aderigbigbe, mother of Afrobeats singer Ayra Starr, has opened up about her decision to sever relationships with three close friends.

    In a New Year’s reflection shared on TikTok, Aderigbigbe cited breaches of trust, inappropriate behaviour, and emotional exhaustion as the reasons behind her decision.

    “So I was reflecting on life, you know, it is a new year, and you want to reflect and see what you can correct,” I remembered that a few years ago, I cut off from a few of my friends. I don’t know if I overreacted, and do you know why I did it,” she said.

    According to her, the first friend betrayed her trust by sharing a private conversation with her husband without consent, prompting Aderigbigbe to immediately cut off contact.

    The second friend’s husband made her uncomfortable with inappropriate messages, including sharing his travel plans.

    “The second person, I am your friend, why will your husband be telling me where he is travelling to?” she asked, noting that she felt disrespected and uneasy by the messages.

    Read Also: Ayra Starr confirms relocation to New York City

    Speaking further, she said the third friend constantly complained about her marriage, draining Aderigbigbe emotionally.

    She said that, being married for over 20 years, the friend’s repeated complaints took a toll on her mental well-being.

    “You have been married for 20 years, and you are still calling me to complain about your marriage. What do you want me to do?” she said, adding that the repeated complaints took a toll on her mental well-being.

    Aderigbigbe, who chose not to disclose the reasons for cutting ties to the friends, stated, “So that is why I cut those friends off, and till today, they do not even know why.”

  • COAS tasks troops on discipline, professionalism, human rights

    COAS tasks troops on discipline, professionalism, human rights

    The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has charged troops to remain professional in the discharge of their duties and to uphold the fundamental human rights enshrined in the United Nations Charter during operations.

    The COAS gave the COAS the charge on while addressing frontline troops during his operational visit to 31 Brigade Area of Responsibility (AOR).

    He commended the troops for their steadfastness, professionalism and diligence in managing the security situation within the Brigade’s AOR, which falls within Niger State.

    Read Also: COAS: Soldiers’ welfare remains our continuous focus

    According to a statement by Nigerian Army’s spokesperson, Colonel Apollonia Anele, the COAS assured the troops of improved welfare. He noted that he had been adequately briefed on their challenges, particularly regarding accommodation and other critical facilities aimed at enhancing the wellbeing of soldiers and their families.

    “The COAS further charged the troops to remain firm, vigilant and decisive in dealing with terrorists operating in the general areas of Shiroro, Rijau, and other locations within the Brigade’s Area of Responsibility.

    “He directed the construction and renovation of accommodation and other essential facilities to boost the morale and operational effectiveness of the troops and their families,” the statement said.

  • Akinsanmiro misses Super Eagles training ahead Algeria clash

    Akinsanmiro misses Super Eagles training ahead Algeria clash

    Ebenezer Akinsanmiro was absent as the Super Eagles began preparations for their Africa Cup of Nations quarter-final showdown against Algeria.

    The midfielder, on loan at Pisa from Inter Milan, is reportedly slightly under the weather and did not take part in the team’s recovery session.

    However, the situation is understood to be minor, with the former Beyond Limits player expected to recover in time for Nigeria’s next fixture.

    Read Also: Another  bonus row threatens Super Eagles’ AFCON campaign

    The 21-year-old is yet to make his debut for the Nigeria at the tournament in Morocco.

    Nigeria will face the Desert Foxes of Algeria at the Marrakech Stadium on Saturday, with the highly anticipated quarter-final scheduled to kick off at 5pm Nigeria time.

  • FG confirms release of Super Eagles’ bonuses

    FG confirms release of Super Eagles’ bonuses

    The federal government has announced that all group-stage bonuses due to players of the Super Eagles at the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations have been released and are expected to reflect in the players’ domiciliary accounts within hours.

    The disclosure was made by the Minister of State for Finance, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite, in response to reports suggesting that the national team was considering boycotting training sessions and could refuse to travel to Marrakesh for their quarter-final encounter against Algeria.

    In a post on her official X handle, Uzoka-Anite provided an update on the administrative steps taken to resolve concerns surrounding the payment of match bonuses to the Super Eagles, stating that the issue had been addressed through coordinated action by the Federal Government and the Central Bank of Nigeria.

    “The Federal Government and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) have successfully streamlined to ensure faster, more predictable disbursements aligned with international best practice,” the minister said.

    She explained that all bonuses earned during the group stage of the tournament had already been processed through the required regulatory procedures. “All group-stage bonuses were fully released and have now cleared the necessary regulatory stages,” she said.

    Uzoka-Anite added that the government had introduced a fast-track process to meet the players’ preferences regarding currency denomination. “We have implemented a fast-track conversion process to move funds into foreign currency, honouring the players’ preferences,” she stated.

    Read Also: Another  bonus row threatens Super Eagles’ AFCON campaign

    According to the minister, the final stage of the payment process is already underway. “The final transfers to domiciliary accounts are currently in flight. Players can expect these funds to reflect starting today (Thursday) or tomorrow (Friday),” she said.

    She noted that the government’s priority remains the welfare and morale of the national team as they progress into the knockout phase of the tournament. “Our focus remains entirely on supporting the team’s welfare so they can maintain their incredible momentum in the knockout rounds,” Uzoka-Anite said.

    She added that the administration is committed to ensuring that off-field issues do not distract the players from their performance on the pitch. “We move forward with one goal: Bringing the trophy home!” she said.

    The update is expected to calm concerns surrounding the team’s preparations ahead of the quarter-final fixture, as the Super Eagles continue their campaign at the AFCON 2025 tournament.

  • Forum commends Ogun govt’s plan to stop illegal miners

    Forum commends Ogun govt’s plan to stop illegal miners

    The Ibile Justice Forum, an advocacy group fighting the cause of justice, has praised the Ogun State government for its decisive action towards ending the menace of illegal mining across the state.

    This commendation followed the intervention of the State Government, which on Tuesday ordered the cessation of all illegal mining activities across the state including some communities in Iloro I, Iloro II and Ibiri village in the Ado-Odo area of Ogun State, allegedly by SAF Investment and Property Company Limited. 

    Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Mr. Bolu Owootomo, had on Tuesday, reiterated the State Government commitments towards safeguarding farmlands, a goal, he said, remains a top priority of the administration.

    The State Government reportedly ordered the immediate cessation of the unauthorised mining activities in the communities by the company.

    According to the Commissioner, no directive was issued by the State Government permitting the company to mine in the area, prompting swift intervention once the activities were discovered.

    “Upon becoming aware of the situation, the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security engaged the company directly. The company acknowledged the concerns raised and agreed to halt all operations at the site immediately,” Owootomo said.

    He added that the company has commenced the evacuation of its equipment and materials from the affected locations, noting that the process is already underway.

    “To ensure compliance, formal communication, including a written notice, has been issued to document the agreement,” he stated.

    The Commissioner further assured residents of the affected communities that SAF Investment and Property Company Limited would no longer operate in the area, emphasising that monitoring and enforcement measures remain in force to prevent future violations.

    In a statement jointly signed by Comrade Ifeoluwa Amoo and Comrade Ganiu Owolabi, the Forum described the government’s action has indeed heartening and something to cheer about.

    According to the group, the state government’s timely intervention coming at this critical point in time is indeed reassuring and gives a sense that the lives of the less privileged people matter too.

    In the statement which reads in part, the Forum said: “We are immensely grateful to the Governor Dapo Abiodun-led government for its prompt intervention to nip the menace of illegal mining activities across the state in the bud and feel very strongly that such gestures would send the right signal to the downtrodden that their lives and livelihoods also matter in the scheme of things.

    “We are indeed persuaded that such ill-conceived, selfish motives by a section of the public aimed to achieve selfish interests of a few, would not arise again and we also hope that members of the communities wherever they need to take ownership of their land by observing internal vigilance of their environment and be ready to call out anyone who acts in ways that would further undermine the peace and stability of their communities going forward.

    “Again, we reiterate that the state government must as a matter of urgency ensure that companies involved in all manner of illegalities including economic sabotage and other actions capable of jeopardizing public interest must be treated as the criminals they are and made to face the wrath of the law with no mercy whatsoever.”

  • Peter Obi’s defection sparks major LP exodus to ADC in Delta

    Peter Obi’s defection sparks major LP exodus to ADC in Delta

    The defection of the former Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has set off a significant political shift in Delta State, prompting LP’s 2023 governorship candidate, Deacon Ken Pela, to lead a large contingent of party figures into the ADC.

    Pela, alongside LP candidates for the National Assembly, Delta State House of Assembly, and various local government councils, formally joined the ADC on January 7 at a well-attended event in Asaba.

    Receiving the new members, Delta State Chairman of the ADC, Austin Okolie, described the development as a landmark moment for the state’s political landscape.

    “Today’s gathering is historic. It represents a major political realignment in Delta State and a bold signal to Nigeria that a new progressive coalition is taking shape ahead of the 2027 general elections,” Okolie said.

    He noted that the attendance of national and zonal party leaders underscored the ADC’s expanding influence, adding that the party is growing at the grassroots while remaining aligned with its national objectives.

    In his remarks, Pela said his move was motivated by the search for a value-driven political platform committed to service delivery and institutional reform.

    “Delta State is richly endowed but weighed down by broken trust and political culture that rewards noise over substance. We need a politics anchored in responsibility and service. That is why I have chosen ADC, a platform that places values above individuals and judges governance by results, not rhetoric,” he said.

    Pela also cited Nigeria’s worsening insecurity and economic hardship, noting that over 130 million Nigerians live in multidimensional poverty, and called for a united front to restore public trust and hope.

    His defection was formalised with the presentation of his resignation letter from the LP and his pledge to uphold ADC’s constitution, values and ideals.

    Receiving the defectors on behalf of the national leadership, ADC National Chief Whip, Elder Festus Igbinoba, representing the National Chairman, David Mark, described Pela’s move as part of a wider trend.

    Read Also: JUST IN: Peter Obi dumps Labour Party for ADC

    “This is a convergence of value. The ADC continues to attract leaders dedicated to discipline, institutional growth, and people-focused governance,” Igbinoba said, urging the new members to work collectively for electoral success.

    Similarly, ADC Deputy National Chairman, Senator Andrew Uchendu, said Pela’s entry reflected the party’s growing national appeal.

    The highlight of the event was the presentation of ADC membership cards to Pela and his supporters by the ADC Chairman of Jeremi Ward 2, marking their formal induction.

    The ceremony was attended by prominent party leaders, including Chike Okogwu, National PWD Leader; Mabel Oboh, South-South Zonal Publicity Secretary; Ebilade Keefe, South-South Zonal Secretary; Dr Bright Honda, South-South Zonal Youth Leader; Mrs Joy Mena, Delta State Woman Leader; Faith Okolo; Lady Chinwe Ejido; Lauretta Onochie; and other party stakeholders.