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  • Bashiru to Wike: you lack locus to dabble into APC affairs

    Bashiru to Wike: you lack locus to dabble into APC affairs

    The National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Senator Ajibola Bashiru has said that his comments on the status of Governor Siminalayi Fubara as the leader of the party in Rivers State was in order.

    Clarifying the status of the Governor, who recently defected to APC, the Secretary said that all members of the party, including members of the National Working Committee (NWC) must accord any sitting Governor due respect and  Governors remain the leaders of the party in their States.

    But Bashiru’s comment did not go down well with the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, who warned the APC Secretary to stay clear of Rivers politics.

    Reacting to the development in a statement, APC National Secretary said the Minister’s reaction was uncalled for as he (Bashiru) was only carrying out his responsibility of protecting the interests of the Party, all its members and structures. 

    He wondered how a Minister, who is not a member of the party, could challenge his person and office.

    Read Also: Wike to APC national secretary: steer clear of Rivers politics

    According to Bashiru: “For the avoidance of doubt, our records indicate that Minister Nyesom Wike is not a member of our Party (APC) so he lacks the locus to dabble into the affairs our party.”

    He also warned the Minister cannot be in the Federal Executive Council of an APC Government and be causing confusion within any organ or structure of the party at any level, using the leverage of that same office. 

    “As National Secretary of the APC, I am imbued with the responsibility to protect the interests of the Party and all its members and structures. Hence, my comments regarding the affairs of the APC in Rivers State CANNOT be an undue interference in the affairs of Rivers State. As National Secretary, my activities can not be confined to my home state, Osun State.”

    Bashiru also dismissed as cheap blackmail the allegation by Wike that APC leaders were in the state scrambling for a N600 billion largesse.

    “I take exception to Wike reference to a certain N600 billion largesse in the State for which I and other APC leaders are scrambling. This is nothing but cheap blackmail which has become his stock-in-trade. My background, track record is that of unquestionable integrity, and I challenge him to prove his allegations, or we may meet in court.

     “As to his veiled threat against me, let me remind Wike that he is not God and may be overplaying his political card. My faith is in God and will not succumb to cheap threats such as the one from Wike. 

    “I am one of the young Nigerians that confronted military rule, fighting for democracy, when the likes of Wike were nowhere in sight.”

    Bashiru reminded the Minister that his support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu does not automatically make him a member of the APC. 

    “Millions of non-APC Nigerians also support Mr. President and his own is no different. His attempt to destabilise our Party in Rivers State will not be tolerated, and he can not bring the spirit of PDP into the APC,” he said. 

  • Fubara stagnates development in Oyigbo LG, says Akawor

    Fubara stagnates development in Oyigbo LG, says Akawor

    Former Ambassador to South Korea and Coordinator, Renewed Hope Ambassadors in Rivers State, Desmond Akawor, has alleged the development of Oyigbo Local Government Area has been stalled under Governor Siminalayi Fubara.

    Akawor stated this on Monday, during a “thank you” visit to the local government area by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.

    He said that the people of the area elected Governor Fubara with the belief that he would continue from where Wike stopped in developing the area.

    He complained that the local government had not moved an inch, since Wike left as Governor in 2023.

    According to him, the only tangible benefit Oyigbo has is a commissioner’s slot. 

    He said: “Permit me to speak frankly. If these things are not said now, they may never be said. 

    “We elected Governor Siminalayi Fubara with the expectation that Oyigbo would benefit meaningfully from development.

    “Your Excellency, development in Oyigbo has stalled. We have not moved an inch forward. The only tangible benefit Oyigbo has received is a commissioner’s slot, which was given to me. Beyond that, nothing substantial has come to our people.”

    Read Also: Rivers: No second chance for Fubara, says Wike

    Speaking on the N600 billion in the state treasury, the ambassador warned that Oyigbo must not be excluded in the utilisation of the funds.

    He demanded that If N40 billion was allocated across groups, Oyigbo must not be short-changed. 

    “We are not asking for favors; we are asking for fairness. Some people who do not contribute or support the process cannot continue to dominate the benefits. That cannot be allowed.

    “All Oyigbo stakeholders present here have spoken with one voice. The few aides with him already know our position,” he added.

    Akawor also thanked Wike for liberating Oyigbo from the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), saying without your intervention, our communities would have remained under lockdown every Monday.

    “You restored normalcy and ensured that no Rivers person was profiled or harassed by IPOB. For that alone, we are deeply grateful.

    “Our people are not dissatisfied with what you have done for us. Far from it, we are grateful; we are thankful.

    “You entrusted me with mobilization responsibilities, and I acknowledge that confidence,” the ambassador said.

  • AFCON 2025: Super Eagles starting XI vs Mozambique 

    AFCON 2025: Super Eagles starting XI vs Mozambique 

    Nigeria will be expected to progress to the quarter-finals of the Africa Cup of Nations as they face Mozambique in the last 16.

    The Super Eagles, who missed out on qualification for the 2026 World Cup, surged through the group stages, claiming three wins from three in Group C.

    As such, they are the heavy favourites to see off a Mozambique side that progressed in third place in Group F and is competing in the knockout rounds for the first time.

    Read Also: Super Eagles offered N14 Million per goal against Mozambique

    Nigeria team news

    Nigeria XI: Nwabali; Osayi-Samuel, Bruno, Bassey, Ajayi; Ndidi; Onyeka, Iwobi; Lookman; Adams; Osimhen.

    Substitutes: Uzoho, Sanusi, Ogbu, Dele-Bashiru, Chukwueze, Usman, Simon, Obasogie, Nwadike, Onuachu, Awaziem, Ejuke, Lawal, Akinsanmiro, Nadi.

    Mozambique team news

    Mozambique XI: Ernani; Calila, Mexer, Reinildo, Bruno Langa; Guimaraes, Amade; Catano, Domingues, Witi; Bangal.

    Substitutes: Infren, Nene, Chamboco, Kambala, Edmilson, Bonde, Zavala, Ratifo, Cherene, Gildo, Abdale, Ivana, Melque, Alfandega.

  • Ibrahim Obanikoro launches online APC membership drive

    Ibrahim Obanikoro launches online APC membership drive

    A former House of Representatives member, Ibrahim Babajide Obanikoro, has launched a massive online campaign urging Lagosians who have yet to register with the All Progressives Congress (APC) to do so.

    The initiative follows APC’s commencement of online membership registration nationwide on Monday. 

    According to the party, eligibility for registration requires possession of a National Identification Number (NIN) and reaching the age of 18.

    In a series of online messages and engagements, the former lawmaker described the registration exercise as a timely opportunity for residents, particularly young people, to participate more actively in the political process and contribute to the future direction of Lagos State and the country at large.

    He commended the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting that its policies and reforms are placing Nigeria in a “strong and vantage position” for sustainable national development. 

    Read Also:Wike to APC national secretary: steer clear of Rivers politics

    Obanikoro also praised the Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, for what he described as purposeful and hardworking leadership that continues to drive growth and development in the state.

    “The APC-led government at the federal level is laying solid foundations for national progress, while Lagos State remains a model of effective governance under Governor Sanwo-Olu,” he said.

    Obanikoro encouraged all eligible Lagosians, especially the youth, to seize the opportunity presented by the online registration exercise and formally identify with the ruling party.

    “This is the time for young Lagosians to step forward, register, and be part of the process of building the future they desire,” he added.

    The APC’s online registration initiative is expected to expand the party’s membership base and enhance inclusion, particularly among tech-savvy young Nigerians across the country.

  • Don’t exclude anyone, Abdulrazaq advises as APC begins e-registration

    Don’t exclude anyone, Abdulrazaq advises as APC begins e-registration

    Kwara Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq on Monday flagged off the e-registration and revalidation of membership for the All Progressives Congress (APC).

    The Governor, who was documented as the first registrant of the party in the state, said the exercise is designed to strengthen the party and ensure accurate membership tally for planning.

    He said everyone who wishes to register as members of the party should be accommodated, cautioning against excluding anyone from the exercise.

    “It is important that we know how many of us are members of this exclusive club (APC), which is arguably the biggest party in Africa.

    ” This is the only party to develop Nigeria and all the states in Nigeria, including all the local governments,” he told party stalwarts in Ilorin at the APC Stakeholders’ Engagement and Commencement of E-registration and Revalidation Exercise. 

    The programme was organised by Kwara APC led by the Chairman, Prince Sunday Fagbemi.

    “We want to know how many we are, so that we can use that to enumerate, canvass, and protect ourselves properly, empower ourselves properly, not leaving anyone behind,” he said.

    “Now, for those who have been tasked with this exercise: don’t exclude anyone. We need all the members we can get. So, make sure you register, not just our members, you should go out and canvass for new members. 

    “This is an opportunity to canvass new members. You’ve seen all the work that’s been done from the federal level to the state and local government level. Use that to market the party, to make sure that we expand from where we used to be.”

    Read Also: AbdulRazaq inaugurates 83 upgraded health care centres

    The Governor said his administration has executed projects across sectors which have made Kwara State more developed and viable than it ever was. 

    “The facts speak for themselves across every sector. We have posted sterling performances that everyone can see in every part of the state,” he added.

    The Governor said everyone needs their National Identity Number (NIN) to be onboarded as members of the the party.

    The event was attended by top party chieftains, federal and state legislators, cabinet members, board chairmen and members, among others.

    Fagbemi, State APC Chairman, said the meeting was called to assure everyone in the APC that there is no hanky-panky, and to create equitable platform for all. 

    He said arrangements have been put in place to make sure no one is marginalised, adding that intending registrants will be required to meet some pre-conditions.

    The Chairman commended the Governor for his pragmatism and achievements across key sectors, including in the education, health, and road infrastructure.

    “The reasons for our gathering include but are not limited to the fact that we have to work together as one entity. We must unite and work together and align behind Mr. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, who is our leader. We have seen the achievements of the Governor and that is strong enough to mobilise the people,” he said.

    Deputy Chief of Staff Princess Bukola Babalola said it takes the concerted efforts of the party leaders and stalwarts to make the exercise successful, asking all and sundry to support the exercise.

    “This registration exercise is not a one-man’s job. We must participate and see to the success of the registration exercise,” she said. 

    Chairman, Lower Niger River Basin Development Authority, Abdullateef Gidado Alakawa, said the registration exercise offers an opportunity for the state to strengthen membership of the party.

    He noted that whatever numbers the party gets at the end of the exercise will translate to votes come 2027, thanking the party leadership for creating an avenue to expand the party membership.

    “We are not going to be audio politicians but ones who will bring our votes,” he said.

    Mubarak Bello, State Coordinator for membership e-registration, who took the gathering through the guidelines, rules and mode of operation of the exercise, said electronic registration will take place across the three Senatorial Districts, urging all party faithful to participate in the process.

    Bello explained that a total of 579 registration agents will be onboarded from across 193 wards, saying this will be preceded by registration of senatorial administrators and local government supervisors. 

    “Only members (people) with valid National Identification Numbers (NIN) are eligible to be registered. Members with invalid NIN should as a matter of necessity relate with the agent so as to accelerate the means of revalidation of their number,” he said.

    Chairman, APC Elders’ Caucus, Hon. Razaq Lawal, called on members of the party to play their roles by mobilising and working for the success of the exercise.

    He called Governor AbdulRazaq a God-fearing man and reformer, who he said has continued to develop the state and lead by example, requesting all Kwarans to continue to support him to succeed.

  • World Braille Day: First Lady urges authorities to strengthen inclusion policies

    World Braille Day: First Lady urges authorities to strengthen inclusion policies

    • …calls for accessible digital environment for the visually impaired

    First Lady Oluremi Tinubu has called on authorities at all levels in the country to deepen policies and partnerships that will empower blind and visually impaired citizens to live full, independent lives and participate confidently in national development.

    Mrs Tinubu made the call in a message to mark World Braille Day 2026, observed on January 4, stressing the need for inclusive environments and stronger institutional commitment to accessibility, particularly as Nigeria accelerates its digital transformation.

    According to the First Lady, inclusion must go beyond symbolism and translate into practical support systems that guarantee equal opportunities for all citizens, regardless of physical ability.

    She described Braille as a critical instrument of dignity and independence, noting that its relevance has become even more pronounced in a rapidly evolving digital world.

    “Today, on World Braille Day 2026, we celebrate Braille as an important tool of inclusion, dignity, and independence for blind and visually impaired persons,” she said.

    Mrs Tinubu warned that the global shift toward digital platforms could widen inequality if accessibility is not deliberately built into emerging technologies and public systems.

    “As the world becomes increasingly digital, it is imperative that we bridge the digital gap by ensuring accessibility in a digital age,” the First Lady stated.

    She emphasised that the integration of Braille with modern technology is essential to guaranteeing equal access to information, education, and economic opportunities for persons living with visual impairments.

    “Braille, when integrated with technology, guarantees equal access to information, education, and opportunities,” she added.

    She reaffirmed that an inclusive society strengthens national cohesion and enhances the collective capacity for progress, urging stakeholders in government, the private sector, and civil society to work collaboratively in advancing accessibility standards.

    “In Nigeria, we must continue to support everyone to live full, independent lives by creating inclusive environments, while strengthening policies and partnerships that empower every citizen to participate confidently in nation-building,” Mrs Tinubu said.

  • Tinubunomics never promised instant abundance — Budget Office DG

    Tinubunomics never promised instant abundance — Budget Office DG

    • …faults “arithmetic illusion” in viral revenue claims
    • …explains subsidy reform, debt figures, and limits of federal spending power

    Tinubunomics was never a promise of instant abundance but a deliberate macro-fiscal reset undertaken within hard constraints, the Director-General of the Budget Office of the Federation, Tanimu Yakubu, has said.

    Yakubu made the clarification in a detailed policy note titled “Tinubunomics and the Arithmetic of Illusion,” where he cautioned against what he described as a growing tendency in public discourse to assemble large headline numbers without respecting the fundamentals of public finance.

    According to him, much of the criticism directed at the fiscal framework of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu stems from a failure to distinguish between revenue, cash and financing, as well as between federation-wide collections and what the Federal Government actually retains and can spend.

    “Tinubunomics was never a promise of instant abundance. It is a macro-fiscal reset undertaken within hard constraints: inherited debt service, FX realism, security spending, legacy arrears, and competing constitutional obligations”, Yakubu said.

    He argued that viral claims suggesting the Federal Government had access to ₦150 trillion or more were built on what he called “arithmetic illusion,” not economic analysis.

    “Borrowing is not income; it is financing and creates future obligations. Federation receipts are not equivalent to what the Federal Government can spend. Once these distinctions are ignored, any number—no matter how dramatic—can be manufactured”, Yakubu explained.

    The Budget Office chief outlined a familiar pattern in such critiques, where aggregate tax collections are added to oil revenues without clarifying whether the figures are gross or net, federation-wide or federally retained, and whether costs and deductions have been accounted for. 

    Customs receipts, he noted, are often double-counted, while borrowing is presented “as though it were free money.”

    On fuel subsidy reform, Yakubu stressed that the policy did not create a sudden pool of discretionary cash, contrary to popular belief.

    “Subsidy reform does not conjure discretionary cash. It closes a hole. Under the old regime, underpricing manifested through arrears, opaque netting, and quasi-fiscal obligations. Reform first eliminates these hidden drains. The fiscal benefit appears gradually, not through a sudden pile of spendable ‘savings’”, he said.

    He also addressed misconceptions around Nigeria’s rising debt stock, noting that a significant portion of the increase in naira terms was due to exchange-rate revaluation of existing foreign-currency obligations, not fresh borrowing.

    “When the exchange rate adjusts, the naira value of dollar-denominated debt rises automatically,” Yakubu said, adding that treating this accounting effect as new borrowing was “a category error.”

    Yakubu emphasised that in a federation, revenues are shared and statutorily allocated, and that federal budget reality is determined by retained revenue plus deficit financing, not by gross inflows aggregated for political effect.

    He urged Nigerians to assess government performance using proper audit logic: examining federal retained revenue, separating it from financing, tracking expenditure across debt service, personnel, capital and transfers, and then evaluating concrete outputs.

    “Anything else is not scrutiny. It is a theatre. And no amount of theatrical arithmetic can substitute for fiscal discipline”, he said.

  • JUST IN: 30 persons killed as terrorists raid market in Niger

    JUST IN: 30 persons killed as terrorists raid market in Niger

    Terrorists have killed at least 30 people in a ruthless raid on a Niger State community, torching a market, destroying a Catholic mission house and looting valuables before fleeing with abductees.

    The gunmen, emerging from Kainji Lake National Park forest along Kabe District, struck Kasuwan-Daji market in Demo Village around 4:30 p.m on January 3, burning stalls, ransacking shops and carting off food items, motorcycles and over N200,000 in cash from residents in Agwara and Borgu local government areas.

    The priest at the mission house narrowly escaped the destruction.

    A joint security team visiting the scene Sunday morning confirmed over 30 deaths, with several kidnapped, though local reports put the toll at not less than 42.

    The state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Wasiu Abiodun confirmed the attack stating that 30 victims lost their lives while some people were abducted though the number of the abducted persons are not yet specified.

    He said that efforts are being made to rescue the kidnapped victims and the security are on the trail of the perpetrators.

  • Laju Iren films releases teaser for cinema debut ‘Onobiren’

    Laju Iren films releases teaser for cinema debut ‘Onobiren’

    Laju Iren Films has unveiled the official teaser for Onobiren, a highly anticipated film scheduled for cinema release on March 6, 2026, with tickets available for preorder from January 30.

    Onobiren, which means “woman” in Itsekiri, is a celebration of women, faith, and African storytelling. Written and executive produced by Laju Iren, the film is directed by Famous Iraoya, director of Finding Nina. Principal photography took place in Warri and Lagos, making it the company’s biggest production to date.

    Speaking on the project, Laju Iren said: “Onobiren is a film that is so dear to me personally and to all of us at Laju Iren Films. We need more like stories that elevate women, and the men who support them, spotlight Africa positively, and showcase the intersection between life and faith. Shot in Warri and Lagos, it is also our biggest film yet in terms of production; it is fitting that this is our first film in brick and mortar cinemas and we cannot wait for the world to see it”.

    The film stars Patience Ozokwo, Deyemi Okanlawon, Bisola Aiyeola, Ruby Akubueze, Chude Jideonwo, Desmond Bryce, and others.

    Produced with support from Africa No Filter and CC Hub Creative Economy, Onobiren aims to tell authentic African stories that resonate across generations. The film was also selected for Entertainment Week Africa and the London Lift Off Festival.

    The teaser  shared late December 2025, has since generated widespread buzz on social media, attracting rave reviews and building anticipation ahead of its cinema release.

  • LASTMA seeks media partnership to  Improve traffic management

    LASTMA seeks media partnership to  Improve traffic management

    The General Manager of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, has commended media practitioners for their sustained support and professionalism in the coverage of the agency’s activities throughout 2025.

    He described the partnership as vital to effective traffic management in Lagos State.

    Bakare-Oki gave the commendation during the review of LASTMA’s engagement with the media, noting that journalists across print, broadcast and digital platforms have played a critical role in projecting the agency’s image, statutory responsibilities and operational interventions.

    According to him, media coverage of LASTMA’s activities has not only enhanced public awareness but also strengthened confidence in traffic management policies and enforcement across the state. 

    He said feedback from the media, reflecting public opinion and expert perspectives, has been largely positive and constructively critical, helping the agency to refine its policies and improve operational efficiency.

    He said: “The media has remained an indispensable partner in our public enlightenment and behavioural reorientation mandate. Beyond information dissemination, the analytical depth and constructive critiques from media practitioners have significantly enriched our policy discourse and reform processes. 

    He also highlighted the introduction of the ‘LASTMA Media Mayors’ initiative, which integrates journalists into the practical workings of traffic management across Lagos. 

    The initiative, he explained, has improved transparency, enhanced stakeholder engagement and enriched reportage through firsthand insights.

    Bakare-Oki stressed that the growing complexities of urban mobility in Lagos require a stronger and more strategic collaboration with the media, particularly in promoting voluntary compliance with traffic laws and ensuring real-time dissemination of traffic information to road users.

    On operational achievements, the LASTMA boss disclosed that over 1,800 personnel were deployed under the ‘LASTMA 24-Hour Night Gangs’ initiative during the 2025 “Detty December” festivities. 

    He said the round-the-clock deployment helped ease congestion on major routes, reduced night-time traffic violations and improved road safety during the festive period.

    He reiterated that effective traffic governance in a megacity like Lagos depends on efficient enforcement, active public cooperation and responsible media engagement, adding that sustainable success can only be achieved through collective responsibility.

    Bakare-Oki reaffirmed LASTMA’s commitment to transparency, professionalism and stakeholder engagement, expressing optimism that the New Year would usher in a deeper and more impactful partnership with the media toward achieving safer and more orderly roads in Lagos State.