The Nation Newspaper

Tag: tinubu

Tinubu signs historic Tax Reform Bills to law Thursday

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will on Thursday sign into law four historic tax reform bills set to overhaul Nigeria’s fiscal landscape, streamline tax administration, and boost investor confidence.

The four bills — the Nigeria Tax Bill, Nigeria Tax Administration Bill, Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Bill, and the Joint Revenue Board (Establishment) Bill — were recently passed by the National Assembly following extensive stakeholder consultations and technical reviews.

The ceremonial signing is scheduled to take place at the State House, Abuja.

A statement on Wednesday by Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, described the legislation as a major step forward in President Tinubu’s economic reform agenda, with the new legal framework expected to simplify tax compliance, enhance revenue generation, and improve the overall ease of doing business in Nigeria.

“These laws will significantly transform tax administration in the country, leading to increased revenue generation, an improved business environment, and a boost in domestic and foreign investments,” the statement said.

The signing ceremony will be witnessed by key government officials including the President of the Senate, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, majority leaders of both chambers, the chairmen of the Senate and House Committees on Finance, the Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, the Chairman of the Progressives Governors’ Forum, the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, and the Attorney General of the Federation.

At the heart of the reforms is the Nigeria Tax Bill (Ease of Doing Business), designed to consolidate Nigeria’s previously fragmented and overlapping tax laws into a single, harmonised statute.

The bill seeks to eliminate multiple taxation, reduce compliance burdens on taxpayers, and create a more transparent and predictable fiscal environment.

Read Also: Senate declares Yelewata, Mangu killings as acts of terror

The second bill, the Nigeria Tax Administration Bill, introduces a uniform operational and legal framework for tax administration across federal, state, and local governments.

It aims to standardise procedures and reduce conflicts in the collection and management of taxes at various levels of government.

Also to be signed is the Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Bill, which repeals the current Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) Act.

It establishes a new, autonomous national revenue agency — the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS) — with a broadened mandate.

In addition to tax collection, the NRS will also be responsible for the collection of non-tax revenues, operating under a strengthened regime of transparency, accountability, and performance benchmarks.

The fourth legislation, the Joint Revenue Board (Establishment) Bill, creates a formal institutional framework to foster cooperation and coordination among revenue authorities at all tiers of government.

It introduces new accountability structures, including the establishment of a Tax Appeal Tribunal and an Office of the Tax Ombudsman, to ensure fairness in tax enforcement and resolution of taxpayer grievances.

June 25, 2025
I’m passionate about securing the country – Tinubu

President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday assured that his administration is concerned about securing the country.

Tinubu said this while commissioning the Wole Soyinka Way/ONEX interchange bridge, katampe extension in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja.

He said security is of immense importance to him while commending FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike for the infrastructure put in place in the nation’s capital.

Tinubu who was represented by the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio said: “I’m here to represent the hardworking President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, who is very concerned about the infrastructure of this country, about the security of this country. And today celebrating what he has been able to put in place through the Minister of the FCT and his team.

“The FCT has changed. Members of the Diplomatic Corps can confirm this. Unfortunately, because of the spread of killings that we are seeing in some parts of the country, the FCT and your administration, I would say you are not well celebrated. You ought to be celebrated on a daily basis. It is very rare to see a ministry invite the President for 17 good days. Not just to flag up, but to commission projects.

“And not just ordinary projects, but quality projects. I want to say congratulations to you and your management. What is happening in the FCT is what people would say that even the blind can see. But the blind would notice potholes on the roads. FCT has turned around. We are very proud of what is happening here.

“This interchange, this magnificent piece of engineering that we are all seeing, is indeed a testament to our unwavering commitment to progress, a beacon of our collective aspiration for a more connected and prosperous Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.

“So, ladies and gentlemen, while our rapid urbanization is a sign of growth, it has also presented challenges, particularly in ensuring smooth and efficient movement of people, goods, and services. This interchange is a crucial answer to those challenges, designed to alleviate traffic congestion, enhance safety, and significantly improve the daily lives of residents and commuters in the Federal Capital Territory.

“Our Renewed Agenda is built on the bedrock of robust infrastructure. We understand that a nation’s arteries must be strong, clear, and efficient to pump life into its economy and foster societal well-being. This bridge, strategically linking key areas and easing the flow of traffic, will unlock new opportunities for commerce, reduce travel time, and contribute directly to increased productivity and a better quality of life for all who traverse these routes.

“I commend the Federal Capital Territory Administration under the dynamic leadership of the Minister for their vision, dedication, and tireless efforts in bringing this project to fruition. Their commitment to transforming Abuja into a world-class capital is evident in projects of this magnitude.

“I also extend my profound appreciation to the contractors, engineers, and the countless laborers whose hard work, expertise, and commitment to excellence have delivered this structure on time and to the highest standards. Your sweat and toil have laid the foundation for a more efficient and interconnected Federal Capital Territory.

“Ladies and gentlemen, this bridge is a promise fulfilled and a glimpse into the future we are collectively building. A future where infrastructure serves as a catalyst for economic growth. Where connectivity fosters unity, and where every Nigerian can access opportunities without hindrance. This stands as a symbol of what we can achieve when we work together with purpose and determination.

“As we commission the interchange today, let us commit ourselves to striving for excellence in all our endeavors. Our journey towards a greater Nigeria is ongoing. And every step, every bridge, every road brings us closer to our shared destiny of prosperity and peace”.

On the ongoing crisis in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the labour Party (LP), Akpabio who earlier spoke in his capacity as Senate President, said; “I will say that however you people got yourself into this problem, try and get yourself out of it very quickly.

“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is very interested in seeing a vibrant opposition. It is sad when he sees the way the opposition in Nigeria is in disarray. As a true democrat, he would like to see a very vibrant opposition in the country. Just before I came here to represent him, I received and read a letter from the Labour Party.

“So, it’s not only PDP that is in disarray. Even the Labour Party is cracked. And people who are strong members of the Labour Party are eager to run Nigeria when they cannot put a small political party like that in order”.

In his address, the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, faulted the PDP for waiting on directives from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) before implementing a Supreme Court judgment that affirmed Samuel Anyanwu as National Secretary.

Addressing the Acting National Chairman of the PDP, Umar Damagum, Wike argued that the issue of reinstating Anyanwu did not arise, noting that the Secretary was not an appointee of the Chairman, and has been working since his election.

Read Also: Tinubu pays tribute to late Cornelius Adebayo, hails him as “true statesman”

“I heard it when the acting National Chairman of PDP was directing the National Secretary to resume. The National Secretary is not your appointee. The National Secretary has been doing his work. So, you can’t call him to resume.

“The National Secretary has been working and will continue to work. He doesn’t require anybody to direct him to resume work.

“If it’s because of your ignorance of the law, too bad. The law does not recognize ignorance. That you’re ignorant of the law is not an excuse. I feel so bad when people can now move to INEC, for INEC to direct them to obey the Supreme Court judgment, it’s most unfortunate,” he said.

The FCT Minister rebuked Damagum, saying he won’t join those sabotaging themselves. He urged Damagum to seek guidance instead of acting out of ego or relying solely on allocations, adding that money isn’t the solution to every problem.

“Continue to shoot yourself. I will not be a party of those who will shoot themselves. When you don’t know something, ask the right person. Not because of ego, not because of oh, I’m receiving monthly allocation. Money does not solve all the problems.

“There’s nothing you can do about it. If you want to learn, come and meet us, we will teach you how to go about it,” Wike said.

June 25, 2025
Tinubu approves hosting of Africa chiefs of Defence Staff summit in Abuja

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the hosting of African Chiefs of Defence Staff summit in Abuja.

The summit, aimed at proffering home-grown solutions to the continent’s security challenges, will hold from August 25 to 27.

Speaking at a Press Conference, the Chairman of the summit planning committee, Air Vice Marshal Precious Amadi, 53 African countries’ Defence chiefs., including Burkina Faso, Niger and Mali, had indicated interest to attend the summit.

Amadi said the premier summit was an avenue for Chiefs of Defence Staff across the Africa continent to engage in dialogue on shared defence and security mechanisms to enhance defence capabilities amongst African nations.

He said: “Truly, in the light of current realities, it has become imperative to seek African solutions to African problems. And it is in recognition of this, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, granted approval for the Defence Headquarters to host the maiden African Chiefs of Defence Staff Summit.”

Amadi said the summit, with the theme: “Combating Contemporary Threats to Regional Peace and Security in Africa: The Role of Strategic Defence Collaborations,” covered four thematic areas.

Read Also: Tinubu pays tribute to late Cornelius Adebayo, hails him as “true statesman”

These, according to him, are: Initiating Discussions on Collective Strategies for African Security Issues; Facilitating Collaborative Response to Peace and Security Issues in Africa; Developing Mechanisms for Integrating the Private Sector into Africa’s Defence Efforts; and Establishing a Roundtable for the Initiation of Homegrown Solutions to Africa’s Defence Needs.

“The event is also expected to showcase Africa’s defence capabilities through a defence exhibition which will hold concurrently with the Summit.

“Some foreign partners as well as senior retired and serving military officers, including heads of African Union and Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Commissions, government officers and heads of various security agencies will attend the event,” Amadi said.

June 25, 2025
Coalition are IDPs, out to unseat themselves – Tinubu

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has described members of the coalition as a group of political gangsterism that are out to unseat themselves.

President Tinubu stated this on Wednesday in Lafia during his one day working visit to commission legacy projects in Nasarawa State executed by Governor Abdullahi Sule.

Speaking at the town hall meeting with stakeholders of the State after commissioning the projects, the president said, “Those who have triggered the politics with a coalition suddenly, let’s not pay them attention, they are political IDPs, don’t give them room, the hope is here, Sule is doing well.

“We will support whatever Governor Sule brings about to work harder for the prosperity of Nasarawa State, this is what we stand for, I’m not here for political campaign, but who is a politician that will keep quite when gangsterism are coming with coalition to unseat themselves” he said

President Tinubu commended Governor Abdullahi Sule for his giants strides in all sectors of the state economy.

“I can see the mechanization efforts of the Governor, the improvement rolling in harvest of rice and many others, yes we will work with you to ensure values are added to your mineral resources.

“Don’t rely on solid minerals and forget Agriculture, we are going to make agriculture profitable and interesting for all of you the youths, the women, and we will empower you through small scale financing loan and opportunity for prosperity” The President assured Governor Sule

He further assured the people of the state that hard times are over and that the people will not regret voting him as their president, adding that Governor Abdullahi Sule has transformed the state and needs adequate support to succeed.

Read Also: Tinubu pays tribute to late Cornelius Adebayo, hails him as “true statesman”

“I can see hardwork coming from Governor Abdullahi Sule, he is determined to use resources available to him to the benefits of Nasarawa State, Sule is doing well, Bola Tinubu is doing well too” he said

Speaking earlier, Governor Abdullahi Sule thank the president for making out time to visit Nasarawa State despite tight schedule to commission what he described as legacy projects.

He told the president that he was able to starts and complete all the projects without borrowing any kobo due to the resources available to the state due to the removal of fuel subsidy by Mr President.

He describe the president as a democrat, nationalist and inspirational leader that he will learn from, and informed the president that the flyover and underpass he commissioned in Lafia will be replicates both in Akwanga and Keffi as work on those projects has reach advance stage.

He outlined most of his achievements and the reasons for initiating such, especially the vocational and technical institute in Lafia that trains people in various Vocational areas.

He thanks the president for appointing sons and daughters of Nasarawa State into his government.

June 25, 2025
Tinubu pays tribute to late Cornelius Adebayo, hails him as “true statesman”

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has mourned the passing of Chief Cornelius Olatunji Adebayo, describing the former Kwara State Governor, senator, and federal minister as a “true statesman” whose life was marked by integrity, courage, and unwavering devotion to public service and progressive politics.

In a heartfelt tribute he released on Wednesday, the President expressed profound sadness over the death of Chief Adebayo, who passed away at the age of 84.

“During his extraordinary lifetime of 84 years, which was marked by an unyielding commitment to public service and progressive politics, C.O., as political associates fondly called him, was a strong voice and a leading light in Nigeria’s political firmament,” President Tinubu stated.

Chief Adebayo, a former academic and one of Nigeria’s most respected political figures, rose to national prominence in the Second Republic when he served as a senator under the banner of the Unity Party of Nigeria (UPN), led by the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo.

He later made history in 1983 by defeating the odds to become the second elected civilian governor of the old Kwara State.

President Tinubu recalled Chief Adebayo’s bravery during Nigeria’s most difficult political moments, particularly in the wake of the annulment of the June 12, 1993 presidential election, won by the late Chief MKO Abiola.

Tinubu praised Adebayo’s steadfastness in the face of military dictatorship, saying he was among the few who “cast aside every comfort and stood firmly in defence of democracy and the ideals of justice, fairness and equity.”

“Chief Adebayo spent several years in exile in Canada, a period that tested his resilience and commitment to his beliefs. I worked closely with him during our years in exile. He demonstrated rare courage, integrity, and perseverance during these difficult times”, the President said.

Beyond his activism, Chief Adebayo played key roles in national development upon Nigeria’s return to democratic rule in 1999.

Read Also: Afenifere leader Adebayo mourns Oke

He served as Minister of Communications and later as Minister of Transportation between 2003 and 2007.

According to President Tinubu, Adebayo’s ministerial years were marked by “patriotism and commitment to the progress of Kwara State and the Yoruba race.”

The President also acknowledged Adebayo’s influence within the Pan-Yoruba socio-political group, Afenifere, describing him as a “voice of reason and a stabilizing influence” during the group’s internal debates and critical engagements with national issues.

“As a progressive politician, a democrat, and a principled leader, Chief Adebayo lived a life worthy of emulation. His contributions to our national journey will never be forgotten,” President Tinubu affirmed.

The President extended his condolences to the late elder statesman’s family, political associates, and the government and people of Kwara State.

“May they find consolation in his legacy of impeccable service,” he said.

Chief Cornelius Adebayo is remembered not only for his political service but also for the personal integrity and intellectual rigour he brought to every position he occupied.

June 25, 2025
Tinubu appreciates Nasarawa People for warm reception

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed appreciation to Governor Abdullahi Sule and the people of Nasarawa State for the warm reception during his visit and for naming key legacy projects after him.

The President, whose aircraft touched down at the Uthman Danfodio Airport in Lafia at 1:58 p.m., made the remarks while commissioning the Lafia Flyover and Bypass, now named “Tinubu Flyover” by Governor Sule.

He urged residents to remain steadfast in supporting his administration’s drive toward economic recovery and national prosperity.

Tinubu commended the governor for prioritising projects that have a direct impact on citizens, describing it as a testament to good governance.

Read Also: 2027: Itsekiri APC leaders endorse Tinubu, Oborevwori’s reelection

Earlier, Governor Sule said the flyover and underpass were inspired by the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda and were executed without the state borrowing any funds.

He also commissioned the newly dualised one-kilometre Shendan Road, now named “The Bola Tinubu Exchange Road.”

June 25, 2025
Nigeria undergoing silent, bold transformation under Tinubu – Shettima

Vice-President Kashim Shettima says Nigeria is witnessing a silent but bold transformation under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu.

Shettima said this on Wednesday at the Nigeria–Brazil Business Forum tagged “Roots to Revenue: The Nigeria–Brazil Corridor,” held in Abuja.

The Vice-President said the renewed strategic alliance with Brazil is “grounded in intent, and rich in the potential for mutual growth”.

According to him, Brazil’s journey, especially the strides in agriculture, energy, infrastructure and industrial development, speaks to ongoing transformation in Nigeria.

” Under the leadership of President Tinubu, Nigeria is undergoing a quiet but resolute transformation.

” Markets are being opened; Institutions are being rebuilt; Policies are being refocused.

“What drives these changes is a seriousness of purpose that goes beyond reform for reform’s sake.

” What we seek are partners who see our direction, respect our ambition, and are prepared to walk the path with us,” he stated.

Shettima, who underscored the need for the strategic alliance with Brazil, noted that Nigeria is embarking on a journey similar to that of the South American country.

” Our Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones are taking form. Our farmers are ready to operate at scale.

” But, we know the difference between going alone and going far. Brazil can stand with us in this effort, not as a donor, but as a partner in innovation, in training and in investment.

“We are equally attentive to your leadership in clean energy. Nigeria’s energy transition is rooted in what we can control.

“We are harnessing our gas reserves to power our industries and transportation, while also advancing our renewable energy ambitions. Brazil’s example provides guidance that is real and tested.

“We are eager to learn from your experience in building an energy economy that creates jobs, supports industries and expands access to rural communities.

” Our teams are ready to engage on how to move from policy to practice, from ideas to infrastructure,” he said.

The Vice President disclosed that Nigeria is encouraged by Brazil’s interest in skills development and human capital.

According to him, it aligns perfectly with one of the most pressing national goals, which is to ensure that the youthful country is prepared for future demands.

“We welcome the opportunity for institutional partnerships that promote training, research and the exchange of knowledge in sectors where Brazil has built strength, and in areas where Nigeria is gaining ground,” he added.

The Vice-President of Brazil, Geraldo Alckmin, reaffirmed Brazil’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with Nigeria through long-term cooperation, shared innovation, and mutual economic growth.

Alckmin described the moment as “one of the most promising” in the history of Nigeria-Brazil diplomatic and commercial relations.

“This is a necessary complement to deepen our relations. We want this moment to correspond to the production of sustainable partnerships for our people,” he said.

He highlighted the potential in key sectors such as agriculture, defence, innovation, and energy.

Alckmin acknowledged that, despite the strong historic and cultural ties, trade volumes between both countries are still much lower than the potential.

“Our trade is growing, but it can increase tremendously. Brazil is ready to work with Nigeria to build a commercially successful South-South corridor,” he stated.

Alckmin also spoke on the Green Imperative Initiative (GPI), a 1.1 billion dollars programme to transfer Brazilian agricultural technology to Nigeria, as a model of transformative South-South cooperation.

He said that Brazil does not just export products, but offer solutions and ideas, adding that under President Lula’s administration, Brazil has simplified its tax regime.

Read Also: AU MSMEs Forum: Shettima urges integration of informal economy for Africa’s prosperity

He added that Brazil is exploring a direct flight route to Nigeria to ease business travel and trade.

The Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole, called for a reset in the bilateral trade dynamic, lamenting the current two billion dollars trade volume, down from $9 billion a decade ago.

“The Nigeria-Brazil corridor is not a nostalgic idea; it is realistic and achievable. Let us walk the talk and ensure our deliberations yield results,” she urged.

Oduwole outlined Nigeria’s priority sectors for investment, including agro-industrial value chains, digital trade, the creative economy, and pharmaceuticals.

She also revealed efforts by the Nigerian government to streamline investors’ engagement through a digital portal tracking live project pipelines.

“We are serious about institutional delivery. Our agencies—NEPC, NIPC, PEBEC, NASENI—are working as one team,” she noted.

The Director-General, Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC), Princess Zarah Mustapha, emphasised state-level reforms as critical to unlocking sub-national investments. (NAN)

June 25, 2025
2027: Itsekiri APC leaders endorse Tinubu, Oborevwori’s reelection

Itsekiri leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC), across Warri Federal Constituency in Delta State, have passed a vote of confidence in President Bola Tinubu, endorsing his reelection in the 2027 polls.

The leaders comprising past and current government functionaries, political heavyweights, including recent defectors of the Peoples Democratic Party, across the Itsekiri nation, gave the endorsement at a unity meeting held in Warri on Monday.

They also passed a vote of confidence in the State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori endorsed him as the sole candidate of the party for the 2027 gubernatorial election.

They asserted that both the President and Governor had performed well in the administration of the nation and state, respectively.

The leaders were Delta South Senatorial chairman of the APC, Hon. Austin Oribioye; House of Representatives member, Warri Federal constituency, Chief (Hon) Thomas Ereyitomi; former Minister of Defence, Chief Dr. Roland Oristejafor; APC leader, Chief Ayirimi Emami; ex-Delta PDP chairman, Chief Solomon Arenyeka; Chief Dr. Joseph Otumara; Dr. Alex Iden; Prince Yemi Emiko; Hon. Olivia Agbajoh; Chief Mike Odeli; former Director of Projects, Niger Delta Development Commission, Engr. Tuoyo Omatsuli, Comrade Alex Eyengo, Mr Justin Rewane, Chairman of Warri South Local Government Area, among others.

Addressing the gathering, Hon. Ereyitomi stressed that the essence of the meeting was for the Itsekiri ethnic nationality to unite and strategise for the good of the people.

“This is a meeting called purely for us to integrate, to have a focus and how we will pull our tribe to work together in our party. All you see today are key players in our party. We have to do the needful.

“Our President, Bola Tinubu, has done very well. A lot that he has done, we cannot mention here today. A man who has done well, we cannot change

“It is on that note that the Itsekiri people are here today to pass a vote of confidence on the President and the Governor of our dear state,” the House of Representatives member stated.

Former Representative of the Constituency, Hon. Daniel Mayuku, while moving the motion for the vote of confidence, commended President Tinubu for a “job well done so far, adding that “we, the entire Itsekiri nation, endorse him to return for a second tenure come 2027.”

He also moved the motion for the endorsement of Governor Oborevwori for come 2027 governorship election.

Pioneer Delta House of Assembly lawmakers, Hon. Oritsetimeyin Orugbo, seconded both motions, adding that the Itsekiri nation will “deliver two million votes” for the President and Governor.

Speaking on the sidelines shortly after the endorsements, prominent APC chieftain in the state, Chief Emami described the meeting as a “success,” especially as the political class of Itsekiri nation were able to seat together and agree to endorse President Tinubu and Governor Oborevwori for the 2027 elections.

Read Also: Isoko APC leaders decry marginalisation, seek commission’s MD

Expressing joy that the meeting will enable them chart a progressive course, Emami noted that for over a decade, the critical political leaders of Itsekiri nationality had not been able to agree on issues that could bring overall development to the land due to party differences that is now history.

“For the past 11 years, you will notice that some persons who were seated here today, we didn’t have the opportunity to see eyeball-to-eyeball to discuss issues that affect the Itsekiri ethnic nationality. But it is a thing of joy that everybody has moved to the APC.

“This shows that in the next election, we will be the ones to give all our votes to President Tinubu. We succeeded in passing a vote of confidence for Mr. President. We equally did the same for the Governor.

“The meeting today is very good for Itsekiri because we have not been able to sit together for a very long time. And politics is one of the things that has been causing our internal issues. So you can see that Itsekiri is coming back stronger and stronger every day,” Chief Emami asserted.

June 25, 2025
Tinubu hailed for withholding assent to NASS Library Trust Fund Bill

The Legislative Advancement Forum has commended President Bola Tinubu for declining to sign the National Assembly Library Trust Fund (Establishment) Amendment Bill.

President Tinubu had declined to sign the Library Trust Fund (Establishment) Amendment Bill, citing inconsistencies with existing federal laws and policies.

In a letter addressed to the Speaker of the House of Representatives and read during Tuesday’s plenary, the President acknowledged the intent behind the proposed legislation but raised concerns about specific clauses in the bill.

In a statement issued on Wednesday by its spokesperson, Mr Ademola Samuel, the forum described the President’s decision as a demonstration of fiscal responsibility and commitment to legislative reforms that prioritise national interest over institutional expansion.

Read Also: Enugu Rep dumps Labour Party for APC, backs Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda

The statement reads, “While the need to strengthen legislative research and documentation is not in doubt, establishing a separate Trust Fund at this time may lead to unnecessary duplication of functions and strain on public finances. Existing structures can be reformed and better resourced to serve the same purpose.”

“The National Assembly should focus on streamlining institutional frameworks and aligning proposed legislations with current economic realities, adding that the President’s action provides an opportunity for broader stakeholder engagement on how best to improve the legislative support system without creating new funding agencies”, it added.

June 25, 2025
Fix your internal crises, stop blaming Tinubu, Shehu Sani tells opposition parties

Senator Shehu Sani has urged opposition parties, including the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Labour Party (LP), New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), and Social Democratic Party (SDP), to take responsibility for resolving their internal crises rather than accusing President Bola Tinubu of instigating their troubles.

Speaking on national television, Sani criticised the tendency of opposition leaders to look to the presidency for solutions to their internal disputes.

“It is unfortunate that the opposition in the country is looking up to the president to solve their problems,” he said. “How logical is it when you have a problem in your house, then you start blaming your neighbour or adversary for it instead of addressing it?”

He insisted that each party must manage its own affairs: “If there is a problem in the PDP, it is for the PDP to solve; if there is a problem in the Labour Party and SDP, it is for them to solve. I don’t know whether they are also trying to ask the president to come to their party and fix things.”

Over the past year, the opposition has suffered major defections of governors, lawmakers, and key figures to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), with many citing unresolved internal conflicts. In response, opposition leaders have accused the APC and President Tinubu of orchestrating the turmoil.

Senator Sani, however, dismissed such claims as “irresponsible,” urging the parties to focus on putting their houses in order.

“If you are in the PDP and you have people working against your party, you refuse to suspend them, you refuse to expel them, and then you decide to focus on the president as being responsible for your problem. I think you are simply being irresponsible.

“If you are in the SDP and you have a crisis in your party and you don’t fix it, and then you are looking for the president or blaming the president, trying to find a scapegoat for your problems, I think you are just unserious.”

According to him, it is not in the best interest of the president to fix the issues in the opposition and said it is part of a political strategy to see “your adversary” battling so many issues.

“So, to me, as a president from a ruling party, he cannot be seen trying to fix a missile or a gun that will be directed at him,” the former Kaduna lawmaker said.

Read Also: Shehu Sani declares interest in Kaduna central senatorial seat

“It is part of a political strategy to ensure that your adversary has so many problems within his own area that he will not be able to contend.”

In his Democracy Day speech, Tinubu threw a subtle jab at the opposition parties, which he described as sinking ships.

Tinubu said he would neither bother about the crisis in the opposition parties nor help them fix the problems, adding that it was a pleasure to see opposition parties in disarray.

“Political parties fearful of members leaving may be better served by examining their internal processes and affairs rather than fearfully conjuring up demons that do not exist,” Tinubu told a joint session of the National Assembly on June 12.

“For me, I will not say, ‘Try your best to put your house in order.’ I will not help you to do so either.’ It is indeed a pleasure to witness you in such disarray.”

June 25, 2025