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Tag: Akpabio

  • Akpabio asks Supreme Court to hear appeal on Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension

    Akpabio asks Supreme Court to hear appeal on Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension

    The legal dispute arising from the suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (Kogi Central) has moved to the Supreme Court, following an application filed by Senate President Godswill Akpabio in his official capacity.

    Court documents indicate that Akpabio has approached the apex court seeking to regularise and sustain his appeal against decisions connected to the suspension of the Kogi Central lawmaker. The application was filed at the Supreme Court in Abuja.

    In the suit, Akpabio is listed as the appellant, while the respondents are Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, the Clerk of the National Assembly, the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Public Petitions, Senator Neda Imasuen.

    The dispute followed events at a Senate plenary in February 2025, during which Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan raised issues relating to parliamentary privilege and procedure.

    The matter was referred to the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions, and subsequently led to her suspension from legislative activities.

    Challenging the disciplinary action, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan instituted a suit at the Federal High Court, Abuja, alleging breaches of her right to a fair hearing and non-compliance with the Senate Standing Orders.

    In a judgment delivered on July 4, 2025, the court considered issues relating to parliamentary procedure and judicial intervention in legislative affairs.

    Following proceedings at the Court of Appeal, Akpabio has now filed an application at the Supreme Court seeking extension of time to apply for leave to appeal, leave to appeal on grounds of mixed law and fact, and an order deeming his notice of appeal and brief of argument as properly filed and served.

    The application, brought pursuant to the Supreme Court Rules, the Supreme Court Act, and provisions of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), argues that the appeal raises constitutional and procedural questions.

    Akpabio contends that the Senate acted under Section 60 of the Constitution, which empowers the National Assembly to regulate its internal procedures.

    He also argues that the presiding officer of the Senate is not required to immediately rule on every point of privilege raised during plenary, and that the Senate’s internal disciplinary processes were invoked in line with its rules.

    Read Also: Akpabio: Electoral Act amendment will be ready ahead of 2027 polls

    Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, in her response, maintains that her suspension breached her right to a fair hearing and that the Senate did not comply with its Standing Orders before referring her to the ethics committee and imposing sanctions.

    It was confirmed on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, that her legal counsel was formally served with the Supreme Court processes, bringing all parties before the apex court.

    The matter also includes a related contempt proceeding arising from a social media post made by Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan while the suit was pending.

    The Federal High Court held that the post violated a subsisting order, imposed a fine, and directed a public apology.

    The senator has appealed the decision, arguing that the alleged contempt was criminal in nature and required compliance with statutory procedures.

    The case is now before the Supreme Court for further adjudication.

  • Akpabio: Electoral Act amendment will be ready ahead of 2027 polls

    Akpabio: Electoral Act amendment will be ready ahead of 2027 polls

    Senate President Godswill Akpabio has assured Nigerians that all amendments to the Electoral Act will be concluded in time for the 2027 general election.

    Akpabio was responding to questions raised by the AdvoKC Foundation, a civil society group.

    The Senate President’s assurance was conveyed through his Special Adviser on Constitutional Matters, Dr. Monday Ubani (SAN), in response to calls by the foundation for the Senate to reconvene from recess and urgently prioritise the Electoral Bill 2025.

    Addressing reporters, Ubani said the Senate would take up the Bill immediately upon resumption from its recess on January 27.

    The Senate President’s aide expressed confidence that the legislative process would be completed swiftly.

    According to him, the Senate leadership is working towards the passage of the Bill and securing presidential assent by the first week of February.

    The lawyer noted that the timeline is critical, given the legal requirement for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to issue a Notice of Election at least one year before the polling day.

    “With the House of Representatives having already passed its version, the process is approaching its final stages,” Ubani said. “Once the Senate resumes, they will certainly pass it.”

    Read Also: Our strategies for Tinubu’s victory in 2027, by Yilwatda

    The assurance comes after AdvoKC Foundation raised concerns over the Senate’s decision to go on recess, despite the time-sensitive nature of the Electoral Bill.

    The group warned that failure to pass the amendment before INEC issues its Notice of Election would compel the commission to conduct the 2027 general election under the existing 2022 Electoral Act.

    The foundation argued that such a development would undermine critical reforms, weaken INEC’s preparedness, and further erode public confidence in Nigeria’s electoral system.

    In a statement, AdvoKC Foundation described the Electoral Bill 2025 as one of the most far-reaching reform efforts in recent years.

    The civil society group highlighted some of the Bill’s provisions, such as early release of INEC funding, mandatory audited accounts, NIN-based voter registration, clearer election timelines, early voting, and expanded voting rights for inmates.

    Ubani acknowledged that the 2022 Electoral Act revealed significant shortcomings during the 2023 general election, particularly in the areas of election litigation and result management.

    He listed real-time electronic transmission of results as the most critical reform, saying it would drastically reduce manipulation at collation centres and provide a reliable audit trail for judicial review.

    The Senate President’s aide explained that the proposed amendment seeks to prevent election petitions from being dismissed on technical grounds by allowing documentary evidence to be tendered by a single collation officer or legal representative, rather than requiring witnesses from every polling unit.

    Welcoming the Senate’s assurance, AdvoKC Foundation stressed that the focus must henceforth shift from intent to implementation.

    The group recalled that despite the national importance of the Bill, the Senate skipped the consideration of its Electoral Bill, SB 903, even after the committee report appeared on the Order Paper on December 3, last year. The Senate later proceeded on recess until January 27, leaving a narrow window for harmonisation, passage and presidential assent.

    According to the foundation, the delay contrasts with the speed at which other priority Bills were passed, underscoring that urgency is a matter of choice.

    “We urge Senate President Akpabio and the leadership of the 10th National Assembly to reconvene without delay and pass the 2025 Electoral Act Amendment Bill in the interest of our democracy,” the foundation said. “The nation is watching. The responsibility lies with the Senate.”

    Ubani added that the Senate leadership planned to engage media and judiciary correspondents after the Bill’s passage to ensure widespread public understanding of the new provisions.

    For AdvoKC Foundation, the assurance places the Senate firmly on record, with the coming weeks set to determine whether or not the commitment will translate into action or delay electoral reforms at the expense of Nigeria’s democratic credibility.

  • Akpabio, Eno synergy, legendary, says Etiebet

    Akpabio, Eno synergy, legendary, says Etiebet

    Former Petroleum Minister and Chieftain of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in Akwa Ibom State, Atuekong Don Etiebet, has described the working relationship between the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio and Governor Umo Eno, as legendary since the governor joined the party in June last year.

    Etiebet stated this in a statement, personally signed by him on the birthday celebration of Senator Akpabio, who recently marked his 63rd birthday anniversary.

    According to Etiebet, “Your zeal and dedication towards a just, equitable and prosperous Nigeria as well as joining hands with our excellent Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, to bring about a stable, united and peaceful Akwa Ibom State on the platform of the APC are profound which synergy has never been seen in the state before.

    Read Also: Atiku’s son’s defection to our party, political earthquake, Lagos APC

    “It therefore, gives me immense pleasure to join several of your well-wishers, family and friends to rejoice with you on the auspicious occasion of your birthday. You are an enigma and great man indeed and in truth.

    “We celebrate your steadfastness, uncommon leadership and selfless service to humanity. You have brought remarkable initiatives, robust and effective legislative performance as the President of the Nigeria Senate, which has significantly advanced the way Nigeria works, towards a great and enduring democracy in the African continent.

    “May God continue to bless you with good health, strength and wisdom to continue in your uncommon services to the development of our dear country, Nigeria. Your footprints will be hard to erase forever and as you attain this new age, may the Almighty God continue to uplift, uphold and strengthen you for the task ahead and abundance of good health,” he prayed.

  • AFCON: Akpabio lauds Super Eagles on semi-finals qualification, charges team to bring home trophy

    AFCON: Akpabio lauds Super Eagles on semi-finals qualification, charges team to bring home trophy

    Senate President Godswill Akpabio, on Sunday, congratulated the Super Eagles, for qualifying for the semi-finals of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) holding in Morocco.

    Akpabio in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Hon. Eseme Eyiboh, described the Super Eagles as the pride of the nation.

    Read Also: Dollar rain for high-flying Super Eagles

    “I heartily congratulate the Super Eagles on their impressive 2-0 victory over Algeria, securing a well-deserved spot in the semi-finals of the Africa Cup of Nations,” Akpabio said while reacting to the outcome of the match played Saturday in Marrakech.

    “I must say, you’re the pride of the nation. This achievement is a testament to the team’s unwavering dedication, resilience, and teamwork,” the Senate President told the high-flying Super Eagles.

    He urged the players to maintain their focus and momentum as they face hosts Morocco in the semi-finals on Wednesday, adding: “We are proud of you; the 10th Senate and all Nigerians are behind you, cheering you on to bring home the trophy.”

  • Why Akpabio withdrew N200bn defamation suit against Akpoti-Uduaghan, others, by spokesman

    Why Akpabio withdrew N200bn defamation suit against Akpoti-Uduaghan, others, by spokesman

    The decision by Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, to withdraw all the defamation suits he instituted was driven by faith, leadership responsibility and the need to promote national reconciliation, his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Hon. Eseme Eyiboh, has said.

    Eyiboh, in an explanatory piece, said the move was neither accidental nor politically expedient, but flowed from a moment of personal conviction and a broader understanding of power, restraint and governance.

    According to him, Akpabio took the decision on New Year’s Day after attending Mass at Sacred Heart Parish, Uyo, where a sermon delivered by the parish priest, Rev. Fr. Donatus Udoette, urged worshippers to forgive past hurts and embrace peace.

    “He was not at a political event, nor addressing supporters,” Eyiboh said. “He was in church, listening as a parishioner, when the message on forgiveness struck him personally.”

    He said shortly after the service, Akpabio announced that he would forgive those who had offended him and discontinue all legal actions instituted in his name.

    He added that about nine defamation suits are affected by the decision, “including the widely publicised ₦200 billion suit against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.”

    Other cases involving individuals and associates, he said, are also to be withdrawn.

    Eyiboh noted that Akpabio had always been firm in defending his reputation through lawful means, stressing that the Senate President had never apologised for seeking redress in court when allegations were made against him.

    “The law, for him, was both a shield and a sword,” he said. “To willingly lay it down marks a deliberate interruption of a familiar exercise of power.”

    He explained that the decision should be seen within the broader context of Akpabio’s leadership philosophy, which combines political authority with strong religious conviction.

    Read Also: Akpabio aide takes Senate President’s free medical outreach to Lagos, targets 700 beneficiaries

    “Akpabio has always viewed power as a trust, not just something to be exercised,” Eyiboh said. “In that worldview, forgiveness is not weakness; it is responsibility.”

    The aide also linked the move to Akpabio’s approach as Senate President, noting that the 10th Senate has recorded relative stability and productivity under his leadership.

    “More than 90 bills have been passed in two years, with over 50 already assented to by the President.

    “In an environment where politics thrives on confrontation, restraint by those in authority helps lower tension and refocus attention on governance,” Eyiboh said.

    He added that prolonged legal battles often distract leaders and entrench grievances, while forgiveness frees emotional and institutional energy for national tasks.

    “There is also a strategic value,” he said. “Choosing reconciliation over escalation strengthens cohesion within the legislature and preserves authority without making it brittle.”

    Eyiboh dismissed claims that the withdrawal of the suits amounted to capitulation, arguing that forgiveness is easier to misunderstand than to practise.

    “Forgiveness can be misread as weakness, but it takes confidence to absorb insults without retaliation,” he said.

    He recalled a statement once made to Akpabio by the late evangelist, Rev. Uma Ukpai: “Only fruit-bearing trees attract stones. If you are being attacked, it means you are bearing fruit.”

    According to Eyiboh, Akpabio’s decision was meant to serve as an example in a political climate where disagreements are quickly personalised and litigated.

    “Nigeria is dealing with serious challenges — insecurity, economic pressure and social distrust,” he said. “Leaders who demonstrate emotional restraint contribute to national healing in ways that laws and budgets alone cannot.”

    He stressed that the withdrawal of the suits should be read as public modelling of forgiveness rather than a one-off gesture, adding that its true value would be measured by whether it encourages moderation and dialogue in public life.

    “For the Senate President, forgiveness is both a faith obligation and a leadership tool,” Eyiboh said. “Sometimes, the most radical act in politics is not retaliation, but restraint.”

  • A’Ibom council area unveils group for Tinubu, Akpabio, Eno’s re-election

    A’Ibom council area unveils group for Tinubu, Akpabio, Eno’s re-election

    Abak local government area in Akwa Ibom state has formed a political structure to mobilise grassroots support for the reelection of President Bola Tinubu.

    The group, Grassroots Generals for Good Governace (G4), is also to work for the Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Governor Umo Eno and other candidates of the All Progressives Congress(APC) in the area.

    At a new year meeting at Wonderland in Abak, group consisting of prominent personalities from all walks of life, pledged to ensure electoral victory for the APC in the 2027 general election.

    National coordinator of the G4, Dr. Emmanuel Udosen said that Abak local government area gave the highest number of voters to Tinubu during the 2023 presidential election in the state 

    Udosen promised that the G4 would replicate and even surpass the 2023 record by ensuring that it mobilized more votes for Tinubu, Akpabio and Eno in the next election.

    As the group plans to set up structures in the wards, units, villages, with a clear mandate to begin the mobilization process. 

    “We are working with the Governor’s directive given at the last Stakeholders meeting on voters registration and voter cards collection ahead of the 2027 election.

    “We are insisting that G4 should take the lead in mobilizing the grassroot for this exercise in order to increase our voting strength in the 2027 elections. 

    “In the 2023 election, the APC in Abak LGA, gave the highest number of votes to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Distinguished Senator Godswill Akpabio.

    “We pledge that the numbers will triple in the 2027 election because of the prevaling unity amongst the leaders in the state,” he said .

    He commended the Abak local government Chairlady for her leading role in the voter registration exercise so far and called on other stakeholders to support the exercise in order to increase our voting strength in the 2027 elections. 

    Dr Emmanuel Udosen also through the general voice votes affirmed the  appointment of BOT members, with Prof. Nkereuwem Etukudo as BOT chairman.

    Others include lady Ime Charles, chairman of council, Hon. Udeme Ottong speaker Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Hon. Aniekan Umana, commissioner for information.

    Members of the BoT also include Sir. Nkereuwem Ebong, Engr iboro Johnny, Hon. Friday Iwok, Obongawnan Nene Ime Umana, Hon. Mrs Ekemini Umoh, Hon. Joseph Ikpaisong among others

  • Akpabio aide takes Senate President’s free medical outreach to Lagos, targets 700 beneficiaries

    Akpabio aide takes Senate President’s free medical outreach to Lagos, targets 700 beneficiaries

    Residents of Surulere, Lagos State, on Saturday trooped out in large numbers to benefit from a free medical outreach organised under the Akpabio Cares Initiative, a philanthropic programme driven by the office of the President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio.

    The outreach, which offered free medical consultations, drugs and eyeglasses, is the third edition of the initiative in two years, following similar interventions in Osogbo, Osun State, and Yankaba, Kano State.

    A large number of vulnerable residents accessed essential healthcare services at no cost during the exercise.

    Speaking to journalists at the event, the convener of the initiative and Senior Legislative Aide to the President of the Senate, Mr Ahmed Tijani Mustapha, said the outreach was part of efforts to give back to society, stressing that good health remains one of the most valuable gifts to humanity.

    According to him, the Lagos edition of the programme was designed to reach about 700 beneficiaries, who would receive free medical consultations, prescribed drugs and eyeglasses.

    “We are doing this as a way of giving back to society, and we believe that the best gift is that of good health,” Mustapha said.

    Addressing questions on why the outreach was held in Lagos rather than in Senator Akpabio’s home state of Akwa Ibom, Mustapha explained that the office of the Senate President has a national outlook.

    “Senator Godswill Akpabio is the Senate President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and his impact must be felt across the country,” he said.

    Beneficiaries of the outreach expressed appreciation to Senator Akpabio and the organisers for the intervention, describing it as timely and impactful.

    One of the beneficiaries thanked the Senate President for remembering the community, saying the initiative had brought relief to many residents who could not afford basic healthcare services.

    Another beneficiary lauded the appointment of Mustapha as an aide to the Senate President, noting that his connection to the community had helped attract what he described as dividends of democracy to the area.

    At the end of the exercise, Mustapha disclosed that the next phase of the Akpabio Cares Initiative would move to the North Central geopolitical zone, as the programme continues its humanitarian outreach across the country.

  • Akpabio ends legal battles, withdraws all defamation suits after New Year sermon

    Akpabio ends legal battles, withdraws all defamation suits after New Year sermon

    Moved by the a New Year Mass sermon at the Sacred Heart Parish in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Senate President Godswill Akpabio yesterday directed his legal team to discontinue all pending defamation suits he instituted against various individuals.

    Akpabio said he was touched by spiritual counsel during the service, adding that his decision followed a moment of personal reflection inspired by the homily delivered by the priest, which emphasised peace, forgiveness and the need to let go of past hurts.

    He told the congregation: “I had almost nine cases in court against some individuals who defamed me, who lied against me, who slandered my name.

    “But I listened to the priest and suddenly realised he was talking to me. So, I hereby direct my solicitors to withdraw all the lawsuits against them.”

    In his sermon, the priest had urged worshippers to embrace peace as a foundation for progress, stressing that personal healing often begins with forgiveness.

    “You have to let go of the past, no matter what it was. All of us carry some luggage of pain and hurt. You have to let go if you want to move on,” the Senate President said.

    Read Also: Akpabio seeks Remo, Ijebu unity to achieve Ijebu-Remo State

    Akpabio’s decision brings to an end a series of high-profile defamation cases that drew national attention in 2025.

    Among them was a N200-billion libel suit filed against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, arising from allegations of sexual harassment which Akpabio denied and asked her to substantiate in court.

    Akpabio’s wife, Ekaete, also instituted defamation actions over claims that the Kogi Central senator damaged her family’s reputation.

    Relations between Akpabio and Mrs. Akpoti-Uduaghan deteriorated following her suspension from the Senate in March 2025, which she publicly linked to her allegations against the Senate President.

    Mrs. Akpoti-Uduaghan also challenged some of the actions taken against her in court, including filing a N100 billion defamation suit over remarks she said harmed her reputation.

    With yesterday’s decision, Akpabio has formally brought closure to all defamation-related litigations involving him, signalling a conciliatory start to the year and a public shift from courtroom battles to reconciliation.

  • Akpabio ends legal battles, withdraws all defamation suits after New Year sermon

    Akpabio ends legal battles, withdraws all defamation suits after New Year sermon

    Senate President Godswill Akpabio has directed his legal team to discontinue all pending defamation suits he instituted against various individuals, saying the decision was inspired by spiritual counsel received during a New Year Mass in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

    Akpabio made the disclosure on Thursday at the Sacred Heart Parish, Uyo, where he attended the New Year service.

    He explained that the move followed a moment of personal reflection prompted by the priest’s homily, which focused on peace, forgiveness and the importance of letting go of past grievances.

    “I had almost nine cases in court against some individuals who defamed me, who lied against me, who slandered my name,” Akpabio told the congregation. “But I listened to the priest and suddenly realised he was talking to me. So I hereby direct my solicitors to withdraw all the lawsuits against them.”

    Read Also: New year: Be hopeful, Akpabio, Abass, Bamidele advise Nigerians

    During the sermon, the priest urged worshippers to embrace peace as a pathway to progress, noting that personal healing often begins with forgiveness. He stressed the need to let go of past hurts in order to move forward.

    Akpabio’s decision ended a series of high-profile defamation cases that attracted national attention in 2025.

    Among them was a N200 billion suit filed against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, following allegations of sexual harassment which Akpabio denied and asked her to prove in court. 

    His wife had also instituted defamation actions over claims she said damaged the family’s reputation.

    The relationship between Akpabio and Akpoti-Uduaghan worsened after her suspension from the Senate in March 2025, which she publicly linked to her allegations against the Senate President. Akpoti-Uduaghan also challenged some of the actions taken against her in court, including a N100 billion defamation suit over remarks she said harmed her reputation.

    With Thursday’s announcement, Akpabio has brought closure to all defamation-related litigations involving him, signalling a conciliatory start to the year and a shift from courtroom battles to reconciliation.

  • New year: Be hopeful, Akpabio, Abass, Bamidele advise Nigerians

    New year: Be hopeful, Akpabio, Abass, Bamidele advise Nigerians

    Senate President Godswill Akpabio and House of Representatives Speaker Abbas Tajudeen called on Nigerians to  be  hopeful as the National Assembly would not shirk in its legislative commitment.

    They gave the charge in their separate New Year messages to Nigerians.

    In his message, Akpabio expressed optimism that this year will witness steady national progress, driven by strong institutions and responsible leadership.

      He added that the National Assembly, particularly the Senate, remains resolute in its constitutional mandate of law-making, representation and oversight to safeguard democratic stability and promote national development.

    Akpabio,  in the message by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity,   Eseme Eyiboh, commended Nigerians for their resilience, patience and maturity in the face of economic and social challenges.

    “As we enter the year 2026, I extend my warm wishes to Nigerians for a peaceful and fulfilling year. I commend the resilience, patience and civic maturity of our people, even in challenging times,” the Senate President said.

    Looking ahead to heightened political activities as the country approaches next year’s general election, Akpabio cautioned against divisive politics and what he described as false messianic narratives.

    He urged political actors to conduct themselves with restraint and a strong sense of national duty.

    Speaker Abbas enjoined Nigerians to remain resolute, steadfast and hopeful in the journey ahead. He declared  2026  a year of hope and endless possibilities for all.  

    READ ALSO: Against the tyranny of small minds

     “In every new dawn lies a promise,” the Speaker stated, commending Nigerians for their patience, perseverance, and contributions toward building a stronger nation.

    Abbas reaffirmed the Legislature’s commitment to enacting people-oriented laws that will further enhance economic stability, promote inclusiveness, and ensure the security and welfare of all Nigerians in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu

     Also yesterday, Senate Leader  Opeyemi Bamidele urged Nigerians to embrace the year   with hope and strength even in the face   of the ‘’anticipated challenges.”

    He informed Nigerians that the country is now firmly on the path to full economic recovery following what he described as the most far-reaching Legislative reforms undertaken in recent years.

    Bamidele promised that the pains associated with the reforms would soon give way to tangible national gains.

    He said: “We are now on the path of economic recovery. Nigeria shall be greater than we met it.

    “We salute you all for surviving the year 2025 as well as urge you to embrace the year 2026 with hope and strength despite the anticipated challenges.”

    The Senate Leader dismissed criticisms of the new tax laws by opposition figures, arguing that they were not crafted to inflict hardship on ordinary citizens but to correct long-standing fiscal distortions that have stalled development.

     First Lady urges unity, renewed investment in children

    First Lady Oluremi Tinubu urged Nigerians to embrace peace, empathy and unity as guiding values for the New Year.

    She also enjoined them to consciously invest in the well-being of children, women and the most vulnerable.

    In her New Year message titled “2026: Hope on the Horizon,” the First Lady admonished Nigerians to make deliberate choices that foster harmony and shared responsibility.

    She stressed that national progress depends on collective compassion and inclusiveness.

    “As we embrace this New Year, let us choose peace, empathy, unity and continue to invest in the well-being of our children, women and the vulnerable among us,” said the First Lady.

     Mbah: 2026, a year of quantum leap

    In Enugu, Governor Peter Mbah described 2026 as a year of quantum leap for the people of Enugu State.

       “Our optimism is not abstract, but grounded in the concrete work we have done,” Mbah said in his message of hope to the people of the state.

    He, however, urged optimism and unity on the part of the people of the state and the nation as a whole.

     The governor assured that there would be no room for complacency on the part of his administration.

    “2026 is not a victory lap. It is a humble continuation of a journey that is nowhere near finished,’’ he said.

    Saraki seeks unity

    Former Senate President Bukola Saraki warned Nigerians against actions that could fracture the country.

    He emphasised that unity remains the key to harnessing Nigeria’s vast resources.

    In a statement signed by Yusuph Olaniyonu, Head of the Abubakar Bukola Saraki Media Office, Saraki acknowledged challenges in the economy, infrastructure, national security, politics, and institutions.

    He said: “A united Nigeria just needs peace and proper coordination to rise and fulfill its manifest destiny as a global leader.

    “That is why all Nigerians, young and old, should avoid any drift towards issues that will threaten the unity of the country.’’

    NLC seeks wage review

    The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) demanded an immediate wage review to combat soaring inflation.

    The Labour Centre said it was essential for workers’ survival amid President Bola Tinubu’s promise of living wages.

    NLC President Comrade Joe Ajaero, in a message to workers, vowed to pursue the demand “with every legitimate means at our disposal.”

    The NLC praised recent security gains but pressed the government to sustain them.

    It stated: “Security remains a fundamental right and the primary duty of any state. We acknowledge recent successes.

    “We will continue to urge the state to build on the ongoing successes as the people are deserving of peace and security wherever they live.”

    Ajaero rallied workers against elite-driven divisions, declaring: “Let us make 2026 a year where the power of the working class and the oppressed becomes the most potent glue that holds us together. Our power continues to be in our numbers and our victory in our solidarity.”

    Kwara Govt to residents: avoid non-essential movements

    Kwara State Government has advised residents of the state to avoid non-essential movements and large gatherings while ushering in the New Year.

    “This advisory is necessary as intelligence reports show that some bad faith actors plan to hit government infrastructures or other soft targets to avenge recent losses they suffered,’’ said the state’s Communications Commissioner,  Bolanle Olukoju.

      Olukoju, however, assured that security forces would maintain their efforts to protect lives and property.

    He encouraged the residents to promptly report any  ‘’unusual movements of persons on a convoy of motorcycles.” 

     Abiru urges dialogue, tolerance  

      Senator Representing  Lagos East, Mukhail   Abiru, has challenged Nigerians to ‘’continue to embrace dialogue, tolerance and mutual respect,’’ in the New Year.

    Abiru, who is the chairman, Senate Committee on Banking and Finance, said the year offers another opportunity for reflection, renewal and collective resolve as we journey toward progress and prosperity.

    He said   the year also ‘’presents an opportunity to consolidate on the gains already recorded, deepen grassroots  empowerment, and expand pathways for our vibrant, innovative and enterprising youth to thrive.’’