Turnover at the Nigerian stock market has risen to a record high of N10 trillion, following foreign and domestic investors’ continued stake in the nation’s macroeconomic outlook and earnings potential of quoted companies.
Trading data released yesterday by the Nigerian Exchange (NGX) indicated that total transactions at the Exchange have doubled this year to reach an all-time high of N9.57 trillion within the first 10 months of trading. This represented an increase of 114.1 per cent over N4.47 trillion recorded in the comparable period of 2024.
The report, which detailed transactions by domestic and foreign portfolio investors, showed that activities at the Nigerian market were substantially driven by rising foreign transactions, with foreign investors now accounting for more than one-fifth of activities at the market.
Foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) account for 21.2 per cent of total transactions as against 16.7 per cent in the comparable period of previous year.
Total foreign transactions have nearly tripled this year, totalling N2.03 trillion by October 2025; 172.45 per cent above N744.3 billion recorded in the corresponding period of 2024.
A breakdown of foreign transactions showed a stronger preference for the Nigerian market, with a higher retention ratio as FPIs were buying more than they were selling in the traditional two-way market system.
Total FPI inflows stood at N1.118 trillion by October 2025, representing an increase of 225 per cent above N344 billion recorded by October 2024. FPI outflows doubled by 127.3 per cent from N400 billion in 2024 to N909.6 billion in 2025.
Compared to the trading situation in 2024, when the country had an FPI deficit of N56 billion, FPI surplus stood at N209 billion in 2025, underlining the comparatively higher inflows against outflows.
Total transactions by domestic investors during the 10 months increased to N7.54 trillion in 2025 as against N3.73 trillion recorded in 2024. The increase was due to an upsurge in activities by retail and institutional investors.
“Institutional investors’ turnover jumped to N4.6 trillion compared with N1.8 trillion in the corresponding period of 2024. Retail investors’ transactions rose to N2.9 trillion in 2025 from N1.9 trillion in 2024.
NGX noted that domestic transactions have grown by 33.15 per cent over the last 18 years, from N3.56 trillion in 2007 to N4.74 trillion in 2024. Foreign transactions increased by 38.31 per cent over the same period, rising from N616 billion to N852 billion.
Experts have attributed the all-time scramble for Nigerian investments to the improvement in the country’s macroeconomic outlook.
The NGX attributed the bullish trading at the market to broad economic reforms and improving investor sentiment.
According to NGX, the rally at the market coincides with a broader policy reset that has redefined Nigeria’s economic outlook, as measures such as the liberalisation of the naira, the removal of fuel subsidies, and closer coordination between fiscal and monetary authorities have begun to restore a degree of macroeconomic stability, even as inflation remains elevated.
Group Managing Director (GMD), Nigerian Exchange Group (NGX Group) Plc, Mr Temi Popoola, said much of the market’s resilience could be traced to a “wave of coordinated reforms” that have rebuilt confidence in the country’s financial architecture.
He said: “The strength we’ve seen in the market has been driven largely by reforms, from the President’s economic agenda to decisive actions by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), PENCOM, and other regulators. These efforts have created the right foundation for investor confidence and renewed market activity”.
Popoola, who spoke during a panel discussion on “Nigeria’s Economic Journey: Crisis, Recovery, and Risk” at the Financial Times Africa Summit 2025 in London, underscored the market’s underscored renewed investor confidence and the resilience of Nigeria’s capital markets amid a shifting macroeconomic environment.
Director General, Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Dr Emomotimi Agama, said the signing of the Investments and Securities Act 2025 by President Bola Tinubu was a turning point for governance and regulatory transparency in the market.
He said: “The new law was crafted to reflate the economy by providing clarity, certainty, and discipline in our markets,” Agama said. “Robust regulation has been central to restoring market integrity and investor trust, providing the transparency required to anchor long-term capital formation in Nigeria”.
Managing Director, Highcap Securities Limited, David Adonri, said the rise in retail activity is a positive indicator for market resilience.
He said: “The growth in retail participation at a time when institutional and foreign investors are slowing down shows that local investors are becoming more confident and more informed. It reflects the impact of technology, easier access and sustained market education. Retail investors are gradually becoming a stabilising force in our market”.
A total of N2.094 trillion from the October 2025 Federation Account revenue has been shared among the Federal Government, the 36 States and the 774 local government councils.
According to the FAAC communiqué, the N2.094 trillion distributable revenue consisted of N1.376 trillion statutory revenue, N670.303 billion Value Added Tax (VAT) revenue, and N47.870 billion from the Electronic Money Transfer Levy (EMTL).
FAAC reported that gross revenue for October stood at N2.934 trillion. From this amount, N115.278 billion was deducted as cost of collection, while N724.603 billion went to transfers, interventions, refunds and savings.
The communiqué stated that gross statutory revenue amounted to N2.164 trillion, an increase of N36.832 billion compared to the N2.128 trillion recorded in September 2025.
However, VAT inflow for October was N719.827 billion, lower than the N872.630 billion recorded in September by N152.803 billion.
The Federal Government received a total of N758.405 billion, the state governments received N689.120 billion, and the local government councils got N505.803 billion, while the sum of N141.359 billion, representing 13 per cent of mineral revenue, was allocated to the oil-producing states as derivation revenue.
For the N1.376 trillion statutory revenue, the Federal Government received N650.680 billion, state governments received N330.033 billion, and local government councils received N254.442 billion, with N141.359 billion set aside for derivation to the benefiting states.
From the N670.303 billion VAT revenue, the Federal Government received N100.545 billion, the state governments received N335.152 billion, and N234.606 billion went to the local government councils.
A total of N7.180 billion from the N47.870 billion EMTL revenue was allocated to the Federal Government, while N23.935 billion and N16.755 billion were given to the state governments and local government councils respectively.
FAAC noted that in October 2025, Petroleum Profit Tax (PPT), Hydrocarbon Tax (HT) and Companies Income Tax (CIT) on upstream activities, as well as Companies Income Tax (general), Capital Gains Tax (CGT), Stamp Duty Tax (SDT), oil and gas royalty, import duty, excise duty and Common External Tariff (CET) levies all recorded increases. In contrast, revenue from Value Added Tax (VAT), Electronic Money Transfer Levy (EMTL) and fees declined during the month.
The communiqué stated that the distribution reflects ongoing adjustments in government revenue inflows and the performance of major sectors contributing to the Federation Account.
The award follows their historic 10th WAFCON title, secured earlier this year in Morocco, further cementing their dominance in African women’s football.
One of the leaders of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) – Hussaini Ismaila – prosecuted by the Department of State Services (DSS) on terrorism charges, has been convicted and handed a 20-year jail term by a Federal High Court in Abuja.
Justice Emeka Nwite handed out the sentence in a judgment delivered on Tuesday after Ismaila (aka Mai Tangaran) pleaded guilty to a four-count terrorism charge brought against him by the DSS.
The prosecution said Ismaila was the coordinator of the 2012 attacks on Police Headquarters in Bompai, Kano State; Mobile Police Base, Kabuga Road, Kano State; Pharm Centre Police Station, Kano State; Angwa Uku Police Station, Kano State, among other places, in which many were injured.
Shortly after his arrest on August 31, 2017, at Tsamiyya Babba Village, Gezewa LGA, Kano State, Ismaila was arraigned on a four-count charge brought under the Terrorism Prevention Amendment Act, 2013.
The trial suffered delays resulting from appeals and the conduct of a trial-within-trial to, among other things, ascertain the voluntariness of the defendant’s extra-judicial statements.
When the trial eventually opened, the prosecution called five witnesses, including two DSS officials and two eyewitnesses to some of the attacks.
Ismaila, who had earlier pleaded not guilty during his arraignment, changed his plea to guilty after the testimony of the fifth prosecution witness.
Subsequently, the defendant’s lawyer, P. B. Onijah from the Legal Aid Council (LAC) pleaded with the court to be lenient with the defendant.
Onijah said Ismaila was remorseful and changed his plea to avoid wasting the court’s time and regretted being involved in terrorism.
Justice Nwite, in his judgment, found Ismaila guilty of the offences charged and sentenced him to 15 years in relation to count one; and 20 years on counts two, three, and four.
The judge ordered that the sentences run concurrently, while the sentencing shall begin to run from the date of his arrest, on August 31, 2017.
Justice Nwite equally ordered that the Controller-General of the Correctional Service confine the convict at any prison of the Controller-General’s choice for the purpose of serving his sentence.
The judge added that Ismaila should be subjected to both rehabilitation and deradicalization after serving his term, before being reintegrated with society.
The governors of the nation’s 36 states, under the auspices of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), have assured their commitment to aiding efforts at strengthening subnational support for gender equality and social inclusion in the country.
The Chairman of the NGF and Governor of Kwara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, gave this assurance in Abuja while announcing the establishment of a new Gender Affairs Department within the NGF to strengthen subnational support for gender equality and social inclusion.
According to a statement by the Director, Media & Strategic Communications at the NGF, Yunusa Abdullahi, Governor AbdulRazaq spoke while inaugurating the Community of Practice (CoP) for Commissioners of Women Affairs.
The NGF Chairman said the initiative represents a turning point in the country’s commitment to women and girls, adding that it is “a remarkable milestone in Nigeria’s commitment to gender equality and the empowerment of women and girls.”
Governor AbdulRazaq added, “Our collective efforts have brought together dedication, resources, and strategic initiatives to make gender inclusion an essential component of governance and development at all levels.”
He highlighted the united purpose behind the agenda.l, adding: “Today we unite to further the cause of gender equality and reinforce the institutional frameworks that support women’s empowerment throughout Nigeria.”
The governor noted the importance of the collaborative role of the states in ensuring the programme’s success, adding: “This event marks an important step forward as Commissioners of Women Affairs from every state come together, pooling their expertise and determination to pursue a shared vision for lasting progress.”
The NGF Chairman also disclosed the group’s “comprehensive Gender Equality and Women’s Economic Empowerment Strategic Plan 2025 to 2029, which is aligned with the National Gender Policy, the National WEE Policy, and the Sustainable Development Goals.”
He added that the same plan outlines ambitious, yet achievable targets for mainstreaming gender perspectives in governance, budget processes, and legal reforms throughout the country.”
Reaffirming the NGF’s role in scaling national programmes, Governor AbdulRazaq said: “The Nigeria Governors’ Forum has integrated the Nigeria for Women Programme into state-level plans and priorities.
“Initially piloted in six states, the program has now expanded its operations to 31 states, reflecting widespread acceptance and implementation across Nigeria,” he added.
The NGF Chairman applauded leading states, stating, “The adoption of the Women’s Economic Empowerment Policy at the state level continues to gain momentum, with states such as Kaduna, Kwara, and Lagos leading the way.
“All other states are committed to domesticating the policy, ensuring inclusion and empowerment in every one of Nigeria’s 774 local government areas.”
Earlier, while declaring the event open, NGF’s Director General, Dr. Abdulateef Shittu, restated NGF’s commitment to gender equity as a core driver of development.
Shittu said, “I am truly pleased to officially open the inaugural Community of Practice for Commissioners of Women Affairs in Nigeria.
He added, “The NGF remains strongly committed to strengthening gender equity, inclusive governance, and the economic empowerment of women across all states.
“Sustainable development is impossible when half of the population is left behind, and empowering women creates a multiplier effect that strengthens households, communities, and state economies.”
Shittu noted that the CoP was meant to encourage shared learning and joint action, adding: “Collaboration, not isolation, is the gateway to real progress.
Giving the commitment speech on behalf of the states’ Women Affairs Commissioners, the holder of that portfolio in Cross River State, Edema Irom, described the development as “historic and timely.”
Irom, who is the Deen of Commissioners for Women Affairs, explained that the event came at a time when “women’s economic empowerment, political inclusion, and improved governance structures are national priorities.”
She outlined five commitments the commissioners will champion: full domestication of the National Women’s Economic Empowerment Policy, stronger coordination with national and development partners, increased representation of women in leadership and the expansion of data-driven programmes such as the Nigeria for Women Project, and the use of the Community of Practice for peer learning and harmonization of state efforts.
She added, “Progress for women and girls is inseparable from the nation’s growth. The commitments made today represent a strong start toward a more inclusive future where women’s participation and potential are fully recognized,” she said.
In her contribution, the Director of Gender Affairs at the NGF Secretariat, Hauwa Haliru, described the CoP as “a collaborative platform established to enhance gender equality, women’s empowerment, and inclusive governance across all states.”
Ms. Haliru said the forum creates a space for commissioners to “learn from one another, share best practices, and collectively address shared challenges and opportunities in policy design, implementation, and advocacy for women and girls.”
She added, “By fostering this network under the leadership of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum Secretariat and in collaboration with the Dean of Women Affairs Commissioners, the COP aims to drive measurable progress on subnational gender priorities.”
On its vision, Haliru said the COP is “a national platform that accelerates results, peer learning, advocacy, and coordinated leadership for advancing women’s economic empowerment, because the platform connects commissioners, leverages shared expertise, and amplifies collective influence.”
She detailed the objectives of the COP, noting that it will facilitate the exchange of best practices and policy lessons, organize training, drive coherence in gender-related policies, promote collaboration with key stakeholders, develop joint monitoring strategies, and showcase innovative solutions for tackling emerging issues.
On the platform’s effectiveness, she said the commissioners will “advocate as a group, shaping the national agenda and donor engagement,” with dedicated sessions for troubleshooting, peer learning, and adopting practical solutions.
She highlighted key activities such as knowledge sharing sessions, quarterly review meetings, state-to-state mentoring, and rapid response task teams for policy and operational needs.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has postponed his planned trips to Johannesburg and Luanda for the G20 Summit and the AU–EU Summit, respectively, to receive further security briefings on the kidnapped schoolgirls in Kebbi State and Monday’s attack on worshippers in Eruku, Kwara State.
A State House statement issued on Wednesday by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, said the President took the decision after reviewing security developments and consulting with key officials.
In response to a request from the Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, President Tinubu directed the deployment of additional military and police personnel to Eruku and the entire Ekiti Local Government Area.
He also ordered security agencies to track down the bandits responsible for the deadly assault on the Christ Apostolic Church congregation.
The President had been scheduled to depart Abuja on Wednesday for the 20th G20 Summit of leaders in South Africa, before proceeding to Angola for the 7th AU–EU Summit.
However, the fresh security breaches compelled him to suspend the trip.
According to the statement, President Tinubu is awaiting a detailed report from Vice President Kashim Shettima, who visited Kebbi State on Tuesday to commiserate with the families of the abducted schoolgirls, as well as operational updates from the Nigeria Police Force and the Department of State Services on the Kwara attack.
President Tinubu reaffirmed his directive to security agencies to ensure the safe return of the 24 abducted schoolgirls and to intensify efforts to bring the perpetrators of the attacks to justice.
Further updates are expected following the submission of the security reports.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has put his planned trip to South Africa for the G-20 Summit on hold pending a detailed report from Vice President Kashim Shettima, who is currently in Kebbi State on an official assessment visit.
Presidency sources confirmed on Wednesday that the President opted to await first-hand updates from the Vice President before travelling to the high-level international forum.
Shettima is in Kebbi to review ongoing federal government interventions, engage local leaders, and assess the security and socio-economic situation in the state.
According to a senior aide of the President who spoke to The Nation on the matter, President Tinubu is prioritising domestic developments requiring urgent attention.
The briefing from the Vice President is expected to guide next steps in the administration’s response to unfolding issues in the North-West.
“Yes, the President has decided to delay his trip to the G20 event in South Africa. There’s no hush-hush about it, he’s giving serious national issues the required attention, and the unfortunate event in Kebbi, and other incidents in other parts, are not left out of his attention”, the source said.
The Presidency had on Tuesday evening announced plans for President Tinubu to embark on a two-nation engagement to South Africa and Angola for the G20 Leaders’ Summit and the AU-EU Summit, respectively.
According to a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr Bayo Onanuga, on Tuesday, President Tinubu was scheduled to leave for South Africa today.
In a move to prevent a reoccurrence of the drama that played out on Tuesday, the Police have shut down the Wadata Plaza headquarters of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) till further notice.
Police personnel are also stationed there to enforce the closure while staff have been sent away from the Secretariat, while party members are not expected to come to the place.
Senator representing Enugu North Okey Ezea (LP) has reportedly died.
Senators Orji Uzor Kalu (APC – Abia North) and Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (PDP – Kogi Central) confirmed the report in separate statements in Abuja.
Kalu in a condolence message to reporters said: “I received with profound shock and deep sorrow the heartbreaking news of the passing of my dear brother and colleague, Senator Okey Ezea (IDEKE).
“His death is a painful blow that has left me personally devastated. Senator Ezea was more than a fellow legislator; he was a friend with whom I shared a close and sincere bond. Our friendship was built on mutual respect, brotherhood, and genuine affection.
“Our relationship extended far beyond the chambers of the Senate. With shared Catholic faith , we often celebrated Mass in the same Catholic chapel, lifting our voices to God in fellowship and reflection.
“Those quiet moments of prayer and spiritual communion remain etched in my heart. Senator Ezea was a man of humility, integrity, and steadfast faith. His devotion to God and his passion for service defined him in every sense.
“To the President of the Senate, Distinguished Senator Godswill Akpabio, I extend my heartfelt condolences.
“The Senate has lost a principled voice, one who contributed with clarity, courage, and unshakable conviction. His absence will be deeply felt within our legislative family.
“I also console the Governor of Enugu state , Barrister Peter Mbah, and people of Enugu State, particularly the vibrant and dignified Nsukka community. Senator Ezea served you with pride, dedication, and an unbreakable commitment to your wellbeing. His death is a profound loss not just to Nsukka, but to our nation.
“To his immediate family, I pray that God grants you strength and comfort during this painful period. Your husband, father, brother, and son was a noble man whose legacy of service and faith will continue to shine.
“As I mourn my dear brother, I take solace in knowing he lived honorably and touched countless lives. May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace.”
OlSenator Akpoti-Uduaghan in a condolence message posted on her Facebook page said: “Rest in peace Distinguished Senator Okey Ezea.
“You were a good man, wise and gentle. Your prayers kept me going through my darkest moments and I will miss you in chambers.
“Enugu North Senatorial District, Kogi Central honors your Senator and mourns with you.”
The battle for the control of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) shifted from the convention ground in Ibadan to the Wadata Plaza in Abuja yesterday.
The two factions clashed over control of the party’s national headquarters.
Trouble started at the secretariat when the two factions, led by the National Chairman, Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, and Acting National Chairman Abdulrahman Mohammed, decided to hold their meetings.
At about 8 am, members of the Wike/Mohammed faction, including the National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, and the faction’s Board of Trustees (BoT) Chairman, Sam Ohuabunwa, arrived at the Secretariat for their National Executive Committee (NEC) and Board of Trustees (BoT) meetings.
Two hours later, Turaki, who was elected as National Chairman at the weekend’s National Convention in Ibadan, Oyo State capital, led his faction to the premises for their inaugural National Working Committee (NWC) meeting.
During the convention, the faction expelled 11 chieftains, including Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike, Anyanwu, former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose and National Organising Secretary Umar Bature.
With Turaki were three governors – Seyi Makinde (Oyo State), Bala Mohammed (Bauchi), Dauda Lawal (Zamfara), and Deputy National Chairman, Taofeek Arapaja.
Tension rose as the Turaki group, which was initially prevented from gaining access to the Secretariat by the police, forced their way into the NEC Hall where the factional BoT was meeting.
To forestall chaos, the police fired tear gas to disperse supporters of the factions who showed up in solidarity.
While attempting to leave the Secretariat, Turaki and the governors were informed that the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, was on his way, forcing them to stay back.
After the gates were opened for Wike, the Bauchi governor told the Deputy Commissioner of Police, who led the police team, that they would only leave the secretariat if Wike left.
But Wike, who did not step out of his vehicle, remained at the secretariat.
Turaki, who announced that he had come to take over the secretariat, lamented the disruption by the other faction.
He urged United States President Donald Trump to intervene in the PDP crisis to save democracy in Nigeria.
Faction expels governors
After the factional NEC meeting, Anyanwu announced the expulsion of Makinde, Bala Mohammed and Lawal from the party.
Also expelled are the BoT Chairman, Senator Adolphus Wabara, Turaki, Arapaja, former Deputy National Chairman, Chief Bode George, Senator Ben Obi, Setonji Koshoedo, Okechukwu Obiechina Daniel, Woyengikuro Daniel, Mohammed Kadade Suleiman, Emmanuel Ogidi, Sumaila Adamu Burga, Umar Sani, Udom Emmanuel and Emmanuel Enorden.
A communique at the end of the meeting said the NEC also ratified the dissolution of the State Executive Committees in Bauchi, Oyo, Zamfara, Yobe, Lagos, Edo, and Ekiti States.
The communique said the memo for their expulsion was presented by Acting National Chairman Abdulrahman, adding that they were sanctioned because of their disregard for court judgments.
Anyanwu, who read the communique, said: “The National Executive Committee (NEC) met on 18 November 2025 to address recent developments affecting the unity, stability, and constitutional order of our party.
“At a time when Nigerians look to the PDP for leadership, NEC convened to uphold truth, justice, discipline, and respect for the rule of law.
“NEC expressed deep concern over the actions of some members who violated subsisting court orders by organising and attending a purported and unauthorised convention.
“This act triggered confusion, factionalisation, and the defection of governors and legislators nationwide.
“NEC reaffirmed that the PDP draws its legitimacy from strict adherence to its Constitution and that of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, not from impunity.
“NEC received the report of the Acting National Chairman, Hon. Abdulrahman Mohammed, detailing breaches of Articles 58(1) and 59(1), including anti-party activities, disobedience to court orders, and conduct bringing the Party into disrepute.”
He added: “NEC further resolved that Chief Ali Odefa must refund all salaries and allowances collected after his expulsion on 12 December 2024. These actions are taken to preserve order and discipline within the party.
“NEC ratified the dissolution of State Excos in Bauchi, Oyo, Zamfara, Yobe, Lagos and Ekiti.
“The NWC is directed to constitute caretaker committees and begin fresh congresses immediately, while the Edo State Exco, led by Barrister Nosa Ogieva, has been approved.
“NEC directed deputies in all National Working Committee positions now vacant owing to expulsion to assume the substantive positions in acting capacity and function as NWC members.
“NEC also formally ratified the appointment of Alhaji Mohammed Abdulrahman as the Acting National Chairman of the party.
“NEC directed the legal team and NWC to commence immediate constitutional action to recover seats of all elected officials who defected from the PDP, in line with Sections 68(1)(g) and 109(1)(g) of the 1999 Constitution.
“NEC approved a party-wide reconciliation initiative to heal divisions and rebuild trust, while ensuring that reconciliation does not undermine discipline. A nationwide membership audit and revalidation will begin ahead of the 2027 elections.
“NEC acknowledged the anxieties among members but assures the Party faithful that these decisions are aimed at stabilising and strengthening the PDP.
“The NEC affirms that the era of indiscipline is over. The PDP will not bow to lawlessness or personal ambition.
“With unity, discipline, and renewed purpose, the PDP will rebuild stronger and restore public confidence ahead of the next electoral cycle.”
Anyanwu: I am Secretary till Dec. 8
Anyanwu told reporters that although it is not the tradition of the party to invite security agents during NEC meetings, he took the decision in the interest of order and peace.
He said: “I wrote to the security agencies and INEC on the 14th November informing them of the NEC/BoT meeting scheduled for today (yesterday).
“I am the National Secretary of the party, and my tenure runs till December 8.”
I have taken over, says Turaki
After the Wike/Mohammed group left the Secretariat, Turaki, who went into the office of the National Chairman, spoke on the drama.
He postponed the factional NWC meeting till today.
Turaki said: “I want to heartily welcome you to our Secretariat, the Wadata Plaza. We said in Ibadan after our elective convention that we would be coming today to conduct our inaugural NWC meeting.
“Coming back to Abuja, we discovered that some elements who have been expelled from our party by the National Convention, which, as you all know, is the highest decision-making organ of our political party, had made plans to disrupt this meeting.
“Yesterday (Monday), I had an interface along with some members of the NWC with the Commissioner of Police of the FCT. I told him that we are coming today (yesterday) to have our inaugural NWC meeting, and I told him that our leaders will be here to witness this historic moment.
“I also told him that we have seen on social media some flyers purporting to give notice of NEC and BOT by the people who are no longer members of this party.
“He assured us that he is going to protect us. He assured us that he’s going to provide security for us to conduct our meeting. I’m happy that the Commissioner of Police of the FCT has fulfilled his promise.
“They have made sure that we’ve gained entry into our secretariat, and we are here addressing the gentlemen of the press.
“Now, however, due to some incidents that are called by those people who are the enemies of progress, who are the enemies of democracy, we have decided that this meeting will be postponed till tomorrow (today).
“We will do everything to ensure that democracy survives. And if it means that we have to make an appeal to the international community to come and assist us, to rescue this democracy, we will not fail to do that. I want to call on all Nigerians to stand up.
“There is a serious threat to democracy in this country. As soon as democracy crumbles, then that will be the end of this country, God forbid.
“But for us in PDP, I had said it and I want to say it quite emphatically, that if it means that we lay down our lives for democracy to strive and survive in Nigeria, we are prepared to do that.”
Turaki urges Trump to save democracy
Turaki urged the international community to assist in salvaging democracy in Nigeria.
He said: “I want to call on President Trump to come and help save democracy in Nigeria. It is not only genocide against Christians that is happening.
“He should come and save democracy in Nigeria because democracy is under threat. I am calling on other developed nations to come and save democracy in Nigeria.
“I am taken aback that a serving minister will be leading thugs with the backing of the Police to come and invade this place.
“I have said that we are willing to lay down our lives to protect our office, to protect our democracy and to protect our mandate.
“Nigerians, you are seeing what is happening. The international community, you are seeing the threat that Nigerian democracy is facing. Come and save us.”
Chairman to Tinubu: Call your minister to order
Turaki urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to call Wike to order in the interest of peace in the country.
He commended leaders of the party and other stakeholders for remaining calm in the face of provocation.
He said: “I want to thank all of you for your resilience, for your courage, for your resoluteness in this struggle to take over our party, our property, and in doing so to save democracy.
“For the past seven hours, Nigerians have been living witnesses to the struggle we’ve been engaged in with those renegade members of our party that were expelled in our national convention in Ibadan. They came here with armed thugs to disrupt our meetings, but God was so kind that we were able to contain them effectively.
“Now, we have driven them out of the secretariat, and as you can see, I have entered my office, and I have assumed leadership as the elected national leader.
“So this struggle, no doubt, is a continuing one. We will continue, we will remain relentless, and we should continue to fight.
“But I want to call on the President. If there’s anybody who wants peace in any given society, it should be the leadership. The President should call his minister to order.”
Police: our men not involved inphysical fight
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command yesterday distanced its men from the physical confrontation at the Wadata Plaza Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) National Secretariat in Abuja yesterday.
It also said that no policeman blocked Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed’s access to the party’s office.
A statement issued by the FCT Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) Josephine Adeh, a Superintendent of Police (SP), said: “The attention of the FCT Police Command has been drawn to a viral video circulating on social media alleging that police officers were involved in a physical confrontation and prevented the Governor of Bauchi State, from gaining access to the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) National Secretariat, Wadata Plaza, Wuse Zone 5, Abuja, on Tuesday, 18th November 2025.
“The Command wishes to categorically state that the claims are false, misleading, and do not represent the true situation. The entrance to the Secretariat was momentarily crowded, and what can be observed in the video are police officers dislodging private security personnel and bouncers who were obstructing the governor’s movement, in order to create a safe and unobstructed passage for him ahead of the scheduled Board of Trustees and National Executive Committee meetings.
“At no time were police officers involved in any scuffle, nor did they obstruct the governor, as falsely portrayed in the circulating video.
“The Commissioner of Police, FCT, CP Miller G. Dantawaye, psc, calls on media practitioners and social media users to verify information before publication or dissemination.
“He warns that spreading unverified or sensational content can mislead the public, generate unnecessary tension, and undermine the peace and security of the Federal Capital Territory.
“For accurate information and fact-checking, members of the public are encouraged to contact the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) via 07038979348.
“The Command therefore advises the public to disregard the misleading video and its accompanying narrative. The FCT Police Command remains steadfast in its commitment to maintaining peace, ensuring safety, and providing unwavering support to all lawful activities within the Territory.”
