The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Tacha rejects ‘Na Man Dey Do Man’ narrative, says men benefit more from other men

    Tacha rejects ‘Na Man Dey Do Man’ narrative, says men benefit more from other men

    Reality TV star Tacha has criticised the widespread saying “na man dey do man,” insisting that men advance and empower one another far more than women.

    In a post on X, she argued that men dominate leadership and funding opportunities across major sectors, including politics, business, entertainment, technology, oil and gas, finance, and the creative industry. 

    She maintained that these industries remain overwhelmingly male-controlled.

    Tacha referenced her own career, noting that if she possessed the same influence and ideas but were a man, she would likely have achieved greater progress due to easier access and fewer barriers. 

    She added that women continue to face distinct expectations and structural challenges that make success more difficult.

    Describing the popular phrase as misleading, she asserted that it ignores the reality of Nigeria’s deeply patriarchal environment, where men occupy 70 to 90 percent of key positions.

    “That’s not opinion, that’s structure. Men fund men far more than they fund women, and even women often prefer doing business with men over other women. So abeg?? How did we arrive at the idea that men are somehow the most unsupported group?

    If “na man dey do man” were true, industries wouldn’t look the way they do 2day. See lemme tell you, power doesn’t accidentally concentrate. It flows where systems allow it, and those systems heavily favour men. I’ll use myself as an example: I’ve always said this openly. If I were a man with the same influence, ideas, work ethic, and drive, I would be much further in life, not by cheating/shortcuts, just by sheer access.

    “I’m constantly pitching ideas. Anyone who knows me knows this. If we talk consistently for a week, I’ve probably brought up a business idea already. I’m always thinking about scale, leverage, money, and growth. The reactions are usually the same: “Wow, you’re really smart.” “I didn’t know you think like this.” “This idea can actually make money.” They see the value. They understand the upside.

    “But here’s where things diverge. With men, deals often end in handshakes. With women, deals often come with conditions. Somehow the conversation shifts from business to “let’s go on a date,”

    “I’m at the Eko hotel for the weekend.”

    “People say, ‘go to the club, that’s where deals are sealed, ‘ and yes, that works for men. A guy meets an exec, they drink, vibe, shake hands, deal done. For women, even in those same spaces, even when the idea makes perfect sense, there’s often an unspoken expectation attached. That’s a barrier men simply don’t face.

    “So when people say men put women on more than men, it’s nonsense. Men put men on. The system puts men on. Women succeed despite the system, not because of it. That’s why I always tell women: work like crazy. Over-prepare. Over-deliver. Don’t rely on goodwill.

    “Cause in this environment, competence alone is rarely enough, you have to prove it again and again. “Na man dey do man” is just pure nonsense. The reality is simple: power circulates among men, and women pay a much higher price to enter the room.”

  • Shettima to chair Bala-Usman at 50 governance colloquium

    Shettima to chair Bala-Usman at 50 governance colloquium

    • … Abah to deliver keynote on leadership, delivery, courage to serve
    • …top policy makers, reform experts to interrogate results-based governance

    Vice President Kashim Shettima will on Tuesday chair the maiden Hadiza Bala Usman Governance Colloquium in Abuja, marking the 50th birthday anniversary of the Special Adviser to the President on Policy and Coordination and Head of the Central Results Delivery Coordination Unit (CRDCU), Hadiza Bala Usman.

    The high-level governance forum, scheduled for 10 a.m. at the Transcorp Hilton, Abuja, is expected to draw senior government officials, policy experts, and private sector leaders to deliberate on leadership, accountability, and results-based governance in Nigeria’s public service.

    Renowned public policy expert Joe Abah will deliver the keynote address on the theme, “Leadership, Delivery, and the Courage to Serve.”

    According to the organisers, the keynote will set the tone for a robust interrogation of the discipline, institutional coherence, and accountability required to sustain public sector performance.

    The keynote address will be followed by a panel discussion featuring leading voices in policy formulation and institutional reform. 

    The panelists include Mr. Taiwo Oyedele, Chairman of the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee; Dr. Muhammad Sani Abdullahi, Deputy Governor (Economic Policy) of the Central Bank of Nigeria; Mr. Waziri Adio, Founder and Executive Director of Agora Policy and former Executive Secretary of the Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI).

    Also on the list of panelists are Ms. Rinsola Abiola, Director-General of the Citizenship and Leadership Training Centre, and Dr. Habiba Lawal, a retired Permanent Secretary and former Special Adviser to the President on Policy Coordination.

    The planning committee said the colloquium would serve as a strategic platform to examine the dynamics of results-driven governance, sustainable institutional reform, and the courage required to drive transformative change across Nigeria’s public sector.

    Bala Usman was appointed Special Adviser to the President on Policy and Coordination in June 2023 by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. In her additional role as Head of the CRDCU, she coordinates government policies and tracks delivery of presidential priorities across ministries, departments, and agencies.

    She previously served as Chief of Staff to the Governor of Kaduna State under former governor Nasir el-Rufai before being appointed by former President Muhammadu Buhari as the first female Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority, a position she held from July 2016 to February 2022.

    Beyond public office, Bala Usman is a co-founder of the global #BringBackOurGirls movement, which mobilised international attention for the rescue of the abducted Chibok schoolgirls in 2014.

  • Impeachment: Why I am not disturbed, by Fubara 

    Impeachment: Why I am not disturbed, by Fubara 

    Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has broken his silence a few days after the state’s House of Assembly served him and his Deputy, Prof. Ngozi Odu, notices of allegations of gross misconduct.

    Fubara spoke at the Inter-Denominational Church Service in Commemoration of 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day at St Cyprain’s Anglican Church, Port Harcourt, on Sunday.

    Fubara said he was not disturbed and would not complain about the fresh political rift because he had the Supreme Being, God, with him.

    He made reference to his New Year remarks when he said, “dogs bark when they don’t understand,” insisting that many people in the state lacked comprehension.

    The governor asked the people to relax, adding that peace would be restored in the state by the grace of God.

    He said, “At the New Year banquet, O said something that dogs bark when they don’t understand. A lot of you don’t understand, the reason why I don’t shout and I don’t complain is that I know what I have. I know that I have what is, and that is God.

    “So, I want everyone to be relaxed. What is important is peace for this our dear State, and we will get it by the grace of God.”

    Addressing the congregation following the invitation of his boss, the Deputy Governor, Prof. Ngozi Odu, said, “Rt. Rev. Blessing Enyindah, in his message, encapsulated everything when he said, “We are remembered by what we have done.” 

    She said, “It is a thing that we should go back and reflect in our heart, and should guide our attitudes, how we relate to people, bearing in mind that there will be a day of reckoning. A day when people will reflect on what you have done, whether it be good or bad. But let us, by God’s grace, be remembered for good

    “Let’s leave this Cathedral and let it resonate in our hearts that we should think of the good we should be remembered for; it doesn’t matter what else, but let’s be remembered for good. What we do is that we look at life more positively and do things more positively and more impactful.”

    She appealed to everyone to pray for legionnaires, the wives and husbands of the fallen heroes, as well as the government of Governor Fubara.

    She said, “Please, continue to uphold the government of Sir Siminalayi Fubara and myself in prayers. Prayers have sustained us so far, and we believe that prayers will continue to sustain us.”

  • ADC warns against fake membership registration links

    ADC warns against fake membership registration links

    The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has alerted the public to a wave of fraudulent online platforms and social media accounts falsely claiming to offer official membership registration for the party.

    In an official statement on Sunday, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the party’s national publicity secretary, clarified that the party has not launched any public online membership registration link.

    The Nation reports that the party last week inaugurated its Membership Revalidation, Mobilization, and Registration (MRMR) Committee, tasked with overhauling the party’s membership base, strengthening grassroots structures, and harmonizing records nationwide.

    The 20-member committee, chaired by Kashim Imam, includes former House of Representatives member Hon. Sekonte Davies, Nollywood actress Mina Horsfall, Professor of Pure and Applied Mathematics Festus Arunaye, Obidient Movement spokesman Tanko Yusuf, activist and Obidient Movement chieftain Aisha Yesufu, and Labour Party former governorship candidate Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, among others.

    The NPS emphasised that the party is still developing an official registration and verification platform, which will be formally announced through verified party channels in due course.

    Abdullahi warned that the party “will never request payments or sensitive personal information via unofficial links, WhatsApp messages, direct messages, or third-party websites.” 

    He urged the public to exercise caution by avoiding suspicious links, not sharing unverified registration messages, and refraining from submitting personal details, including names, phone numbers, PVC information, BVN, or payment data on any unverified platform.

    The party further advised that any suspicious links should be reported through official ADC communication channels. 

    Abdullahi stressed that all legitimate ADC announcements, including the launch of the official membership registration platform, will only be communicated through verified ADC platforms and formal statements from the party leadership.

    He said the party is actively addressing the circulation of fake links and will take all necessary measures to protect the public and maintain the integrity of the party.

  • Southeast APC leaders launch massive e-registration drive ahead of 2027

    Southeast APC leaders launch massive e-registration drive ahead of 2027

    Leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the Southeast have announced an intensified party registration and mobilization drive across the zone as part of preparations for the 2027 general elections.

    The resolution was contained in a communiqué issued at the conclusion of the Izu Umunne gathering of Southeast APC critical stakeholders and elders, held in Enugu, where leaders from the five states reviewed national developments and the political future of the region.

    According to the communiqué, read out by the party’s national vice chairman for the southeast, Dr. Ijioma Arodiogbu, the APC leadership in the region resolved to scale up voter education, digital registration, and party structure strengthening to ensure mass enrolment of members and supporters into the party’s e-registration platform. 

    The move, they said, is aimed at consolidating the party’s base, boosting participation at the grassroots, and delivering bloc votes in 2027.

    The leaders urged all sons and daughters of Igboland, both at home and in the diaspora, to embrace the APC and immediately key into the ongoing e-registration exercise, stressing that a strong, unified membership register is critical to the region’s bargaining power and effective political participation.

    They also directed party leaders, governors, and stakeholders to mobilise political, traditional, and business networks to drive registration across the five Southeastern states, noting that the era of fragmented political engagement in the region must give way to coordinated action.

    Reaffirming their political alignment, the stakeholders declared total support for Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the APC’s sole presidential candidate for the 2027 polls, pledging to use the e-registration drive as a foundation for unprecedented mobilisation and voter turnout.

    The communiqué further expressed full alignment with the leadership of the Southeast Governors Forum and the Progressive Governors Forum, under the chairmanship of Hope Uzodimma, commending the governors for their role in strengthening the party and defending the interests of Ndi Igbo.

    The Southeast APC leaders concluded by committing to deploy all available human and material resources to ensure widespread e-registration, party unity, and effective mobilisation, describing the exercise as central to the region’s quest for greater political relevance and development within the ruling party.

  • Commissioner calls for efficiency as Enugu expands infrastructure drive

    Commissioner calls for efficiency as Enugu expands infrastructure drive

    The Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Ben Osy Okoh, has convened the first management meeting of the Ministry for the year, urging directors, engineers, architects, and other senior officials to brace up for increased responsibilities.

    This is just as the state government intensifies infrastructure development across Enugu State.

    The meeting reviewed the Ministry’s operational status, assessed available resources, and reaffirmed its strategic priorities in line with its mandate and the state government’s development vision.

    Okoh said while certain operational refinements may be introduced to enhance efficiency, the Ministry’s core mandate remains unchanged and firmly aligned with the administration’s infrastructure transformation agenda.

    He disclosed that the Ministry is concluding the second phase of urban road projects, alongside the delivery of 260 Smart Green Schools, 260 Primary Healthcare Centres, the ICC International Hotel, and the International Hospital. 

    According to him, the award and commencement of construction of 1,022 urban roads under Phase Three, recently approved by the State Executive Council, would begin shortly.

    The Commissioner stressed the need for deliberate coordination, effective supervision, and efficient deployment of human and material resources as project delivery expands across both urban and rural areas of the state.

    “We must plan ourselves properly so that we are not overwhelmed,” he said.

    He directed Heads of Departments to ensure optimal utilisation of manpower through structured task allocation, capacity-driven assignments, and purposeful engagement of all personnel to sustain productivity and strengthen institutional effectiveness.

    Calling on staff to fully align with the vision of the state, Engr. Okoh encouraged innovative and forward-looking approaches to service delivery. 

    He highlighted major flagship projects, including the proposed Monorail Project and the 30-storey Twin Towers at the New Enugu City, noting that the initiatives would significantly redefine the development narrative of the state.

    “These projects will change the story of Enugu State. We must therefore prepare ourselves for more complex and transformative assignments,” he stated.

    He further directed that clear performance benchmarks and quarterly deliverables be articulated to support effective monitoring and continuous improvement across departments, stressing that collective commitment is essential to achieving the Ministry’s objectives.

    The Commissioner concluded by calling for speed and efficiency in official processes, urging staff to ensure prompt treatment of files. “Anything that can be done today should not be postponed till tomorrow,” he said.

  • Rivers Assembly accuses executives of plotting to halt legislative duties

    Rivers Assembly accuses executives of plotting to halt legislative duties

    The Rivers State House of Assembly has alleged a plot by individuals linked to the executive arm to secure a court order aimed at stopping the legislature from carrying out its constitutional responsibilities.

    In a statement issued by the Chairman of the House Committee on Information, Petitions and Complaints, Dr. Enemi Alabo George, the Assembly claimed that the plan involved obtaining an ex parte order from a state High Court sitting outside Port Harcourt.

    The House dismissed the alleged move as futile, arguing that it would amount to an attempt to undermine the 1999 Constitution. 

    The lawmakers maintained that such action would be unconstitutional, citing Sections 272(3) and 188(10), alongside relevant Court of Appeal decisions.

    They added that office holders who had been served notices of allegations of gross misconduct should address the issues raised rather than seeking judicial shortcuts.

    George said, “The Rivers State House of Assembly has received information of plots by certain persons to utilize some Rivers State High Courts, especially outside the Port Harcourt Judicial division, to issue ex parte orders to illegally stop the Rivers State House of Assembly from performing its constitutional duties.

    “These persons are fully aware of the provisions of section 272(3) of the Constitution which states that ‘subject to the provisions of section 251 and other provisions of the constitution, the Federal High Court shall have jurisdiction to hear and determine the question as to whether the term of office of a member of the House of Assembly of a state, Governor or Deputy Governor has ceased or become vacant.

    “Also, section 188(10) states that ‘no proceedings or determination of the panel or of the House of Assembly or any matter relating to such proceedings or determination shall be entertained or questioned in any court.

    “These persons are also fully aware of judicial pronouncements on this matter, especially recently at the Court of Appeal on a matter involving a similar ex parte order by a Rivers State High Court contrary to section 272(3) of the constitution. A word is enough for the wise.”

    The Assembly called on persons behind the move to exercise restraints and refrain from actions initially in accordance with the constitution.

    The lawmakers said, “Therefore, with the leave of the Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, I call on those concerned to exercise restraint and refrain from acts inimical to the Constitution and the rule of law. 

    “All that is required is for the office holders who have already been duly served with the Notice of Allegations of Gross Misconduct to respond to them item by item rather than deploy subterranean moves to subvert the law or use proxies to malign members of the Rivers State House of Assembly in the media.

    “We remain committed to the Constitution and the rule of law and may God bless our dear Rivers State and Nigeria.”

  • Yekini remains Nigeria’s greatest striker – Osimhen

    Yekini remains Nigeria’s greatest striker – Osimhen

    After coming under heavy criticism for his on-pitch outburst towards teammate Ademola Lookman, Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has responded with clarity, shifting attention away from controversy and firmly back to the team’s collective ambition following Nigeria’s 2-0 victory over Algeria at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

    Speaking at the post-match press conference, the Napoli forward addressed the growing debate around his goal-scoring exploits and his place in Nigeria’s football history, stressing that individual milestones are of little importance compared to winning major honours with the national team.

    “It doesn’t matter if I equal or surpass Rasheed Yekini’s record,” Osimhen said. “For me, Mr Yekini is the greatest striker Nigeria has ever produced. I just want to win something important for my country.”

    Osimhen’s comments reflected humility and deep respect for one of Nigeria’s most iconic football figures, even as his own numbers continue to draw comparisons. The 26-year-old has now made 51 appearances for the Super Eagles, scoring 35 goals and providing 14 assists. By contrast, the late Rasheed Yekini finished his international career with 37 goals in 62 games, a record that has stood for decades.

    Rather than embracing the spotlight on statistics, Osimhen reiterated his desire to be judged by team success, making it clear that lifting a major trophy with Nigeria remains his overriding goal.

    On the pitch, Nigeria delivered a composed and convincing performance against Algeria, securing a 2-0 win to book a place in the semifinals of AFCON 2025. The victory sets up a highly anticipated clash with host nation Morocco, as the Super Eagles continue their pursuit of continental glory.

    With pressure mounting and expectations rising, Osimhen’s words and performances underline his growing leadership within the squad, driven not by personal accolades but by a determination to see Nigeria succeed on the biggest stage.

  • Police arrest suspected murderer, cultist, drug trafficker, motorcycle snatchers

    Police arrest suspected murderer, cultist, drug trafficker, motorcycle snatchers

    …as gun, ammunition, illicit drugs recovered in Delta 

    The Delta State Police Command said its operatives have recorded operational successes across the state in its renewed offensive against crimes and criminality, following the assumption of duty of CP Aina Adesola. 

    Spokesman for the Command, Bright Edafe, a Superintendent of Police, said in a statement on Sunday that the arrests of suspected murderers, cultists, drug trafficker and notorious motorcycle snatchers underscored the Command’s commitment to proactive, intelligence-led policing and improved public safety.

    Shedding light on the feat, Edafe said on January 10, 2026, at about 0120 hours, operatives of Ekpan Division, led by the DPO, CSP Labe Joseph, while on confidence-building patrol along Hausa Market, Ubeji, sighted five suspected hoodlums loitering suspiciously.

    He said the suspects, on sighting the police, fled, but one of them, Gift Ojulowo, 30, of New Layout, Ubeji, was apprehended. 

    He said a search revealed one locally fabricated gun and two live cartridges concealed in his trousers. 

    “The suspect confessed to being a member of the Aye Confraternity. He is in custody, and efforts are ongoing to arrest the fleeing suspects,” he said.

    Also, Edafe said on January 8, 2026, operatives of the Raiders Unit, acting on credible intelligence and under the supervision of SP Akanya Agbogha, arrested Obi Onuigbi Ndubuoso (male, 43 years).

    He said a search led to the recovery of 36 bottles of illicit drugs popularly known as Laughing Gas (Nitrous Oxide). 

    He said the suspect is in custody as investigations continue to trace supply and distribution networks.

    He further said that following intelligence on a reported armed robbery of December 24, 2025, operatives of Agbor Division, led by DPO CSP Michael Obekpa, arrested two notorious motorcycle snatchers on January 4, 2026.

    Edafe said the suspects—Owakwe Chuks (male, 37 years) and Bright Moses (male, 32 years)—were arrested during a targeted operation.

    Recovered exhibits, according to him, include a hammer used to attack victims, a short knife, a brown face mask, a handset, and a Fez cap.

    “Investigations are ongoing, and all suspects will be charged accordingly,” he stated.

    In another development, the spokesman said on January 8, 2025, at about 0731 hours, a report was received at Ogwashiku Division that on Poly Road, by Adaigbo Filling Station, a 20-year-old male was stabbed to death while asleep. 

    Edafe said, “Upon receipt of the report, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO), Ogwashi-Uku Division, CSP Israel Okoyomon, promptly mobilised detectives to the scene.

    “Preliminary investigation revealed that the deceased was allegedly stabbed by his brother, Aliyu Haman, 20. 

    “The suspect was arrested, and the weapon used in committing the crime was recovered. The corpse was evacuated and deposited at Odua Mortuary, Ogwashi-Uku, for autopsy. Suspect is in custody, and the investigation is ongoing.”

    Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, CP Aina Adesola, has reaffirmed that the protection of lives and property remains his top priority.

    He assured residents that the Command would pursue criminals decisively through intelligence-led operations and visible policing.

  • Rivers lawmakers adamant as stakeholders move to stop Fubara’s impeachment

    Rivers lawmakers adamant as stakeholders move to stop Fubara’s impeachment

    The 26 members of the Rivers State House of Assembly seeking the impeachment of Governor Siminalayi Fubara declared yesterday that they were pressing ahead with their plan just as the  apex socio-political organization in the  South-South , Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) activated a high-powered machinery to stop the plot.

    The lawmakers,in an update,said the impeachment process  “ is fully on course in line with relevant provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended).”

    “The two notices of allegations of gross misconduct brought pursuant to Section 188 of the Constitution against the Governor and Deputy have been forwarded to them by the Speaker of the House while we await their responses,” Chairman of the House Committee on Information, Petitions and Complaints, Enemi Alabo George said.

    He was reacting to speculations on social media that the process  had been halted or discontinued.

    He said the false narratives were designed to  “cause disaffection between the House and well-meaning Nigerians.”

    “We remain committed to our constitutional duties and would not be dissuaded by cheap blackmail or threats from those who do not mean well for our country’s nascent democracy,” he said and thanked the people of Rivers State for  “their prayers and encouragement and express our gratitude to all stakeholders and leaders at all levels and use this medium to extend our warm regards to all democrats who believe in the Nigerian project.”

    PANDEF  leaders -King Alfred Diete-Spiff, Amanyanabo of Twon-Brass and first military governor of the old Rivers State ; Obong Victor Attah, former Governor, Akwa Ibom State and Dr. Godknows Boladei Igali- set up  a seven member reconciliation committee to resolve the crisis between the Governor and the assembly members.

    The committee is chaired by a former Attorney-General of the Federation ,Chief Kanu Agabi, (SAN).

    Other members of the committee are  Senator Obende Domingo (former Senator, Edo North) – Vice Chairman; Chief Essien Nduese, a former Minister of Housing; Dr. Timiebi Koripamo-Agari.a retired Federal Permanent Secretaryy; Chief Mike Ejiofor, a retired director of the  Department of State Service);Mrs. Nella Rabana-Andem (SAN), a former Attorney-General of  Cross River State; and Prince Godwin Okotie, Secretary.

    Read Also: Fubara lacks capacity to win Rivers for Tinubu in 2027 – Rivers Deputy Chief Whip

    PANDEF expressed concern over the Thursday announcement by Rivers State Assembly Speaker Martin Amaewhule of moves to impeach the governor and his deputy, Professor Ngozi Odu for alleged gross misconduct..

    The group said theit was imperative   to forestall further escalation and breakdown of law and order in the state.

    It said its concern stemmed from “the critical importance and strategic centrality of Rivers State to the Niger Delta region and to the broader socio-political stability and economic wellbeing of Nigeria as a whole.”

    It added: “In keeping with its non-partisan posture and its overarching role as a unifying and motherly platform for the region, PANDEF calls on all parties involved in the resurgent political imbroglio to sheathe the sword and embrace peace, guided by the principles of give-and-take, dialogue, tolerance, and political equanimity. All stakeholders must place paramount importance on peace, development, and the welfare of the people of Rivers State, as well as the interests of other citizens of the South-South, Nigerians at large, and the sizeable expatriate community resident in the State. We must now focus squarely on good governance and development of the state.”

    PANDEF commended President Bola Tinubu, the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC), respected elders of Rivers State, and other well-meaning Nigerians for their previous and ongoing efforts aimed at restoring peace and stability in the State.

    It asked  all parties to fully cooperate with “this distinguished and highly respected team of senior Nigerians and sons and daughters of the South-South zone, as they selflessly commit their time and experience to this arduous assignment, with the objective of achieving a peaceful, fair, and sustainable resolution through a dispassionate and inclusive process.”

    The Nation gathered yesterday that some other eminent Nigerians from Rivers State  and groups had either stepped in or were in the process of brokering peace between Gov.Fubara,the assemblymen and Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike,the estranged godfather of the governor.

    The governor himself is said to be out of the country.

    There has been no official response from him to the impeachment notice or the allegations leveled at him by the assemblymen.

    INC, Fubara’s political family reject impeachment

    The Ijaw National Congress (INC) and the political family of governor yesterday kicked against the impeachment threat.

    The INC in a statement signed by its President, Prof. Benjamin Okaba, condemned the impeachment move, describing it as a grave threat to democracy, peace, and stability in Rivers State and the Niger Delta region.

    “This is the third of such attempt since 2023, revealing a relentless cycle of political vendetta that must be broken.

    We stand firmly with the people of Rivers State and all defenders of constitutional order in rejecting this dangerous gambit”, Okaba said.

    He said the INC framed the crisis not merely as an Ijaw issue, but as a fundamental test for and threat to the country’s democracy, insisting that  “is not a matter of the Ijaw nation but of democracy”.

    Okaba said: “The allegations presented by the Assembly, including matters of budgetary spending and gubernatorial appointments, are governance issues that can and must be resolved within the framework of law and due process, not through the weaponization of impeachment.

    “This impeachment threat, no doubt, follows the collapse of a peace deal brokered by President Bola Tinubu in June 2025, aimed at resolving the feud between Governor Fubara and the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike.

    “The Assembly’s notice cites Section 188 of the 1999 Constitution. However, the speed and context of this process raise questions about its adherence to the spirit of fairness and its use as a political tool rather than a genuine check on executive power.

    “The INC’s stance is also echoed by persons across the political spectrum, including within the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Rivers State, who have also called for the impeachment to be dropped”.

    Okaba asked President Tinubu to act decisively as the father of the nation, appealing to the President to uphold constitutional democracy by using his authority and office to defend the constitutional order in Rivers.

    He urged the President to ensure absolute neutrality and fairness, adding that the peace and economic stability of the Niger Delta, hinged on the federal government being perceived as an honest broker.

    Okaba said the President should curb all agents of instability and safeguard federal allocations to Rivers.

    He said: “In this tense period, the INC urges and strongly advises all Ijaw people and residents of Rivers State to remain peaceful, law-abiding, and resolute. Do not be provoked into any action that could lead to violence or the destruction of property.

    Okaba urged the stakeholders to stand for democratic principles by channeling their energies into peaceful civic engagement, support lawful advocacy and defend democratic institutions.

    He said: “The legitimate development projects initiated by the state government must not be sacrificed on the altar of politics. We encourage all stakeholders to return to the path of genuine dialogue. The previous suspensions and state of emergency have not yielded lasting peace. Only an inclusive, good-faith dialogue can secure a sustainable future for the state.

    Okaba rallied Ijaw people across the world to defend what he described as brotherhood in Rivers State and elsewhere in similar circumstances.

    He said: “Ijaws and other ethnic nationalities and lovers of democracy globally must rise to the occasion now in defence of the Right of the PEOPLE, to good governance, orderliness and peaceful coexistence.

    “The INC does passionately appeal and advise both the executive and the legistative arms of government in Rivers State to work together amicably and peacefully in the overall interest of the Masses in the State, who are, indeed entitled to peace and development, and not self-destruction or anarchy

    “We will continue to monitor the situation closely and will take all legitimate and constitutional steps necessary to ensure that the rights of the Ijaw people and all citizens of Rivers State are protected, and that democracy prevails over impunity”.

    On its part,Fubara’s political family known as  the Supreme Council for Sim (SCS) called the  impeachment move illegal.

    Speaking after an emergency meeting in Port Harcourt, the leader of the group, Amb. Oji Ngofa said the reasons given  for the impeachment has no legal basis.

    “We all know that the governor transited the budget to the National Assembly which the fiscal life is still on. The Constitution allows for six months of grace into the new year. We don’t understand why impeachment was raised against the governor on the basis of the budget. It amounts to playing dangerous politics with the destiny of Rivers people.

    “This state belongs to everyone and as a group we have resolved today to resist any attempt to continue to take Rivers for a ride. The state belongs to everyone. We have the right to our collective patrimony as Rivers people.

    “We feel that what is going on has continued long enough and continue to insult the sensibilities of the people. We are not seeing any expression of the interest of Rivers man in what they are doing. What we are seeing is the attempt to appropriate our collective resources for self aggrandizement.

    “The state wants to live in peace. We have analysed all the issues and we believe the impeachment move is illegal. Members of the APC in the assembly have no right to endorse the move when they have not consulted internally to solve the problem.

    The Eastern Zone of the Ijaw National Congress (INC) and the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) in separate statements blamed Wike for the escalation of tension in the state.

    They said while the June 2025 peace brokered by Presient Tinubu was widely welcomed as a necessary step towards reconciling warring factions and restoring harmony in the state “subsequent statements and activities attributed to Minister Wike have had the opposite effect, undermining the spirit and objectives of that agreement and reintroducing uncertainty into the political environment.”

    They said  Fubara as an  indigene of the State and citizen of Nigeria reserves the right to seek a rerun in 2027 to complete his eight years constitutional right to Governor the State.

    They vowed that nothing would stop him from contesting for governorship next year.

    They said: “The Ijaw National Congress and the Ijaw Youth Council hereby affirm that Governor Siminialayi Fubara, as a bona fide Rivers citizen, retains the unrestricted right to contest any future election, including the 2027 governorship race, without coercion, intimidation, or political preconditions.

    “No individual may arrogate to himself the power to determine the political destiny of Rivers State.

    “We therefore call on Chief Ezenwo Nyesom Wike to immediately de-escalate hostilities, cease all acts and statements capable of destabilizing Rivers State, and allow the peace accord facilitated by President Tinubu to take root in the interest of governance, democracy, and public order.”

    Only fasting, prayers can save Fubara,says  Fayose

    Reviewing the situation in Rivers State yesterday,former Ekiti State Governor  Ayodele Fayose said only fasting and prayers could  save Governor Fubara.

    Fayose, a close  ally of Wike  advised Fubara to reconcile with Wike.

    “Many prayers would be said to save Fubara. So many fasts and prayers would be the only thing that would save Fubara in this one,” Fayose said on Channels Television.

    He accused Fubara  of not keeping to the agreements he reached with Wike  in Abuja.

    The ex-Ekiti governor said  Wike never envisaged that Fubara would betray him.

    “I never knew this incident would happen between Governor Fubara and Governor Wike now. I was seated on the high table the day Fubara was sworn in. I told Wike I want to say one or two things to tell Governor Fubara not to betray you.

    “He said, ‘I should not say it, he cannot do it.’ In my own usual way of telling people the truth, I came out and said ‘My brother, lock all the windows, don’t listen to people. This Wike are people that brought you, remain with them, don’t look for Wike’s trouble.’”

    Wike seeks support for Tinubu, urges unity in Rivers

    However, Wike in continuation of his ‘thank you tour of the state yesterday called for greater unity and collaboration among political leaders in Rivers State to deliver more dividends of democracy to the people.

    Wike,speaking in  Andoni Local Government Area said the visit was to show appreciation to the people for their support for  President Tinubu in the 2023 polls and to seek their  backing for him in next year’s  elections.

    The former governor of Rivers State noted that major political parties in the state had united under what he described as a “Rainbow Coalition”.

    He encouraged community leaders to continue working together in unity, urging them to present a united front to return Tinubu in 2027.

    He said: “See what unity has done. It is no longer a time when one man will be the Iroko, where one man will decide what good will come to Andoni. By the special grace of God, by the unity of the leaders, more will come to Andoni.

    “We don’t have a party in Rivers State. What we have is the Rainbow Coalition under the Renewed Hope Family.

    “And so I want all of you to continue to play that role you played in 2023 by making sure we continue to support Ahmed Bola Tinubu. There’s no negotiation about that.”

    Wike further stated that the local politics of the state would be discussed at a later time, noting, however, that the mistake made in 2023 would be corrected.

    Speaking earlier, the Chairman of the council, Lucky Otuo, said the people were grateful for the minister’s visit to the community.

    Otuo said: “Andoni people are grateful people. We are grateful to you. Your Excellency, come 2027, Andoni people will vote for Mr President.”

    Fubara lacks capacity to win Rivers for Tinubu in 2027 – Rivers Deputy Chief Whip

    Also speaking during the visit,the Deputy Chief Whip of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Ofiks Kagbang said  Governor Fubara lacks what it takes to win Rivers State for President Tinubu in 2027.

    Kagbang said Wike saved the state from descending into crisis, adding that the state should not be allowed to return to what he described as “dark days.”

    Kagbang pledged that the state,through the instrumentality  of Wike, would vote for  Tinubu .

    He said:”the people that will deliver Tinubu are with Wike not with Fubara. Not those people at Government house. Andoni poeple are grateful people.

    “Those that will deliver President Bola Tinubu in 2027 are with Wike.”

    The Rivers State Assemblymen in their impeachment notice to the Governor claimed that he authorized, and approved withdrawal and expenditure of funds from the state’s Consolidated Revenue Fund without legislative appropriation.

    “No appropriation bill of Rivers State has been presented nor has any such law been duly passed into law, as the purported presentation and passage of the 2024 Appropriation Bill is void ab initio,” they alleged.

    Fubara was accused of authorising and approving withdrawals from the Consolidated Revenue Account in 2024 without a duly passed appropriation law by the Assembly, contrary to Section 120 of the 1999 Constitution.

    He was also said to have awarded contracts, including the construction of a new Rivers State House of Assembly complex, without legislative approval.

    The lawmakers further alleged that the governor authorised withdrawals from the Consolidated Revenue Fund in 2025, particularly between January and March, without a duly passed appropriation law by the Assembly.

    They accused Fubara of violating Section 122 of the Constitution by authorising expenditure from the Consolidated Revenue Fund even after the Assembly declared a shutdown of state expenditure through a House resolution.

    The lawmakers said that on February 28, 2025, the Supreme Court restored a judgment of the Federal High Court, which confirmed that Fubara never presented any appropriation bill for 2024, did not have one for 2025, and ordered a shutdown of the state’s expenditures.

    The governor was also accused of approving, sometime in September 2023, extra-budgetary expenditure of N5 billion for the Ogoni-Andoni Unity Road without appropriation.

    The document further alleged that Fubara “approved and expended from the Consolidated Account an extra-budgetary fund of N4 billion and purported to have expended same on the Woji Refinery Road without appropriation,” among other claims.

    In the case of the deputy governor,she was accused of reckless and unconstitutional spending of public funds, obstruction of the House from performing its constitutional duties, and colluding to allow unauthorised individuals to occupy public offices without proper screening by the legislature.

    She was also accused of seeking budgetary approval from an alternative group rather than the constitutionally recognised Rivers State House of Assembly, as well as withholding salaries and allowances due to lawmakers and the Assembly Service Commission.

    Both the governor and the deputy governor were given seven days to file their responses.