The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has formally arraigned an Abuja-based real estate developer, Mrs. Godwin-Isaac Rebecca Omokamo, on allegations of involvement in a ₦500 million land fraud and associated money laundering offences. Also identified as Bilkisu Ishaku Aliyu, Omokamo appeared on Wednesday before the Federal High Court in Abuja, where she faced two separate criminal charges. She was arraigned alongside her husband, Isaac Yusuf Ishaku, their company, Homadil Realty Limited, one Idakwogi Richard John, and a second firm named Rychardo Homes Ltd. Two Separate Charges Filed Against Defendants The EFCC filed two distinct charge sheets against the defendants. The first charge (FHC/ABJ/CR/77/2025) contains five counts, while the second charge (FHC/ABJ/CR/76/25) consists of seventeen counts. According to the anti-graft agency, the defendants are accused of illegally collecting over ₦500 million from various victims between 2023 and 2024. The funds were allegedly laundered through multiple company accounts linked to them. Use of Forged Land Documents and False Claims EFCC told the court that the accused used forged documents, including a fake Power of Attorney, to fraudulently claim ownership of Plot 4022, Guzape District, Abuja. These forged papers were allegedly used to obtain a building permit from the FCT Department of Development Control and later to sell the land for ₦70 million. Additionally, the agency alleged that the group misrepresented ownership of Plots 1861, 1862, and 1863 in Cadastral Zone B07, Katampe District, Abuja. These false claims led several unsuspecting individuals to part with large sums of money under the belief that they were buying genuine property. Fraud Against the Legal Owner The prosecution further claimed that the defendants collaborated to falsely acquire Plot 4022, which actually belongs to one Mrs. Colleen Mero Yesufu. Fraudulent documents and deceitful representations were allegedly used in the process. All these acts, according to the EFCC, violate Section 8(a) and are punishable under Section 1(3) of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Related Offences Act of 2006. Defendants Plead Not Guilty, Granted Bail Appearing before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik, all the defendants entered not guilty pleas to the charges against them. Their legal representatives, Mr. Christopher Oshomegie, SAN, and Mr. Moses Ebute, SAN, successfully secured bail for their clients. The court granted bail in the amount of ₦10 million each, with two sureties per defendant. Bail Conditions and Trial Adjournment Justice Abdulmalik stipulated that each surety must be a civil servant not below grade level 16 and must submit salary evidence for the past three months. The sureties must also own property worth the bail amount and provide an affidavit of means. The court further directed that the defendants submit their international passports and remain within the country, unless granted permission to travel. Pending the fulfillment of their bail conditions, the accused persons will remain in custody. The case has been adjourned to July 21 and 22 for trial. EFCC counsel, Mr. Samuel Chime, stated that the prosecution will present 13 witnesses during the proceedings.
The Benue State Coordinator of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Mrs. Veronica Garba, has disclosed that Corps members stationed in volatile areas have been moved to safer NYSC family houses within Makurdi. Garba provided this update on Thursday during an interaction with journalists in Wannune, located in Tarka Local Government Area of Benue State. She explained that upon receiving reports of the unrest, the NYSC swiftly evacuated Corps members from Yelewata and Daudu, two locations affected by the crisis. Garba noted that the evacuated Corps members were immediately accommodated in NYSC family facilities, including the offices of the Nigeria Corpers Christian Fellowship (NCCF), the National Association of Catholic Corps Members (NACCM), and the Muslim Corpers Association of Nigeria (MCAN). “The safety of our Corps members is a top priority. We see them as our children. The moment we got information about the situation, we reached out to the Commissioner of Police, who deployed officers to support us in evacuating them,” Garba stated. She added that a head count was conducted and confirmed that no Corps member was missing. The NYSC subsequently collaborated with the leadership of all the family houses to temporarily resettle the Corps members in Makurdi, pending a return to their original posts once the situation stabilizes. Garba also appealed to parents to remain calm, assuring them that their children were secure and in good hands. She highlighted the efforts of security leaders who have relocated to Benue to manage the situation effectively. “Parents can be rest assured now that security chiefs have moved into Benue. There’s no need to panic. Most importantly, God remains the ultimate protector and He is with their children wherever they are,” she added. According to a report by LMSINT MEDIA, President Bola Tinubu visited Makurdi on Wednesday, where he held a closed-door meeting with stakeholders. He instructed security agencies to bolster security within the affected communities. The President also gave a directive for the immediate arrest of individuals responsible for the violent attacks, which have tragically claimed several lives.
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The Northern Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) has issued a strong call to suspended Kogi Central Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, urging her to present credible proof supporting her claims of sexual harassment and an assassination plot allegedly orchestrated by Senate President Godswill Akpabio. Isah Abubakar, who serves as the NYCN’s National President, made this demand as Akpoti-Uduaghan appears at the Federal Capital Territory High Court, Maitama, where she is currently undergoing trial for alleged defamation. These defamation charges were reportedly brought forward by the Federal Government, following a formal complaint filed by Senate President Akpabio. The youth group has also called upon Nigerian security agencies to take proactive steps in probing the senator’s claims. Speaking to members of the press in Abuja, Abubakar emphasized the importance of evidence when such sensitive allegations are made. “It’s unacceptable for anyone to casually throw around allegations like sexual harassment without substantiating them with evidence,” he stated. “As men, we understand the severe implications such accusations carry.” Commenting on the allegations of sexual harassment made against Akpabio, Abubakar added: “We respectfully urge Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan to back her claims with credible evidence. Such serious allegations demand a strong commitment to truth and justice, and we acknowledge the sensitivity involved.” He further warned against making unverified claims that could cause reputational harm and incite mistrust among Nigeria’s political stakeholders. Referencing a political gathering that took place on April 1, Abubakar noted that Senator Akpoti had claimed there was a conversation indicating a threat to her life involving Akpabio and other unnamed individuals. He said the gravity of the accusation warrants a full investigation by all appropriate law enforcement bodies. “We urge Akpoti to present the public with factual evidence as her court proceedings continue,” he said. “Transparency is crucial — the public deserves to understand the full context of these allegations to make informed judgments.” He concluded by stating, “Allegations should not be based on personal bias or for popularity. If someone alleges an assassination attempt, they must show reliable and verifiable proof.” “No one should make baseless claims that could tarnish the image of individuals or indict innocent persons unfairly,” Abubakar stressed.
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Pastor Chris Oyakhilome DSc DSc DD And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness (Ephesians 4:24). For far too long, many in the Church have had the wrong idea about the doctrine of holiness and righteousness. They believe no one is holy or can live holy, whereas everything we are, according to the Bible, is holiness. Being born again, we were created in righteousness and true holiness. That’s what we read in our opening verse. You’re holy and you’re righteous. The doctrine of holiness in the Bible, from the Old Testament to the New Testament, has nothing to do with what you do; rather, it all has to do with who you are and where you are. Only a holy man can live holy; you can’t practice holiness to become holy; if you could, then you’d never have needed Jesus. It’s the same with righteousness. You’d have to first be righteous to live a righteous life. That’s why at the New Birth, God imparts His nature of righteousness into a man’s spirit. Righteousness is a nature, and right-living is the result of that nature. A dog barks because it’s a dog. Likewise, a sinner cannot live a righteous life, because he’s a sinner; that’s his nature. To live a righteous life, you’d have to be made the righteousness of God, and that happened when you were born again. 2 Corinthians 5:21 says, “For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.” Therefore, righteousness is not something you attain. People struggle to become righteous because they lack accurate knowledge of God’s Word. Righteousness, according to Romans 5:17, is the gift of God; it’s a nature—that nature or life of God that gives you, and produces in you, the ability to do right. Hallelujah! Until you understand this, you’ll struggle in your Christian walk. It’s part of the reason we say Christianity is not a religion. In the religions of the world, they “try” to be holy; and “struggle” to be righteous. But in Christianity, righteousness and holiness are our inherent nature. We were born righteous and holy, to live holy and righteous. Blessed be God! CONFESSIONRighteousness and holiness are my inherent nature, producing in me the ability to do right and live in alignment with God’s perfect will. I walk in the consciousness of my righteousness; I reign and rule over Satan, demons and circumstances. Thank you Father, for this glorious life, in Jesus’ Name. Amen. FURTHER STUDYRomans 5:17For if by one man’s offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.) Ephesians 1:4According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: Hebrews 3:1Wherefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our profession, Christ Jesus DAILY SCRIPTURE READING1-Year Bible Reading PlanActs 8:9-40 & 2 Chronicles 33-34 2-Year Bible Reading PlanLuke 2:21-32 & Deuteronomy 17 Extract From Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional DAILY AFFIRMATIONS: I am a child of the Holy Spirit, born of the Word, which lives and abides forever. Christ is mingled with my spirit and He is glorified in my body. I live in health and strength always. I refuse to acknowledge any sickness, hindrance, or limitation in my life. My faith prevails over sickness, disease, and wickedness. God’s Word is truth and everything He said about my health and my life is reality. I am making progress, rising like an edifice higher and higher irrespective of daunting challenges, persecutions, hardships, and troubles around the nations of the world. When the challenges of life cast down men, I am always lifted above them. I am in the place of never-ending and superabundant wealth. I am being remembered right now in several places for good. I have received an overflowing of God’s grace. I enjoy promotions, unending success, and an extraordinary life of excellence, victory, and dominion. I am loaded with good things. I am exalted with Christ in glory; I know who I am. I am chosen, royal, and peculiar! I have the supernatural grace to excel in all endeavors today. I have sound knowledge and understanding. I have strength, might, and power. I speak excellent and princely things. I have an understanding heart. The opening of my lips is for the right things. My words are all righteous. I speak the truth always. God has given me wisdom. There is nothing beyond me. There is nothing I cannot handle. I have a wise and discerning heart. Christ is my excellent wisdom. My blessings cannot be humanly explained. I have money everywhere. I am a big-time kingdom financier. I have the supernatural intervention of the Almighty God in all my affairs. I am mightily blessed by the Lord! I am a blessing from God, a carrier and distributor of His blessing and grace to my world. Through me, God shows forth His manifold wisdom and excellent greatness. My family, workplace, neighbourhood, city, and nation are all blessed for my sake. I am an offspring of the Word, and the Word has pre-eminence in my life. I reign and rule in life by the word in the mighty and matchless name of Jesus Christ. Amen. Speak in tongues.
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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is scheduled to arrive in Kaduna State this Thursday to officially commission several strategic infrastructure projects initiated by Governor Uba Sani’s administration. According to a report from the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the visit is part of the events marking Governor Sani’s two-year anniversary in office, highlighting his achievements in key sectors. Among the high-impact projects slated for commissioning is a 300-bed Specialist Hospital located in Millennium City, Kaduna, constructed by the state government to enhance the quality of healthcare delivery. President Tinubu will also commission the Institute of Vocational Training and Skills Development in Rigachikun, various road projects in Soba and Samaru Kataf Local Government Areas, as well as the 24-kilometre Kafanchan Township Road. Other infrastructure projects on the list include the Tudun Biri Road, the 22km road connecting Kauru and Kubau LGAs, and an additional Vocational and Skills Training Centre in Tudun Biri. As part of the administration’s initiative to overhaul Kaduna’s public transport sector, Tinubu is expected to unveil 100 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses, reinforcing the shift towards environmentally friendly mobility solutions. These developmental strides align with the state government’s priorities—infrastructure expansion, healthcare access, youth empowerment, and economic revitalization. Officials from the state government described the president’s visit as an opportunity to reflect on Kaduna’s transformation journey under Governor Uba Sani, praising his commitment to impactful governance and community development. Since assuming office in 2023, Sani has focused intensely on human capital investment, rural infrastructure advancement, and employment creation, making significant progress within his two years of leadership. Originally planned for Wednesday, the president’s visit to Kaduna was rescheduled to Thursday due to his urgent trip to Benue State. President Tinubu had diverted his journey to Benue to sympathize with the victims of recent violent attacks and to evaluate the scale of the humanitarian crisis firsthand. During the Benue visit, he met with various stakeholders, including traditional rulers, political figures, community representatives, and youth leaders, to discuss sustainable solutions to ongoing hostilities. He also strongly condemned the recurring violence and appealed to residents to foster peace, unity, and communal understanding. The Benue State Government, in anticipation of the visit, declared a public holiday, urging citizens to come out en masse and give the president a warm reception.
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In a recent successful joint mission, Nigerian Army troops under Operation Hadin Kai, working closely with the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), intercepted a Boko Haram supply movement along the Gashua–Buni Gari corridor in Yobe State. The effort led to the neutralization of a terrorist, along with the seizure of logistics materials and a motorcycle intended for insurgent use. Insider information revealed to Zagazola Makama disclosed that the operation was launched following credible intelligence that exposed terrorist activities involving the transportation of vital supplies to militant hideouts in the region. The joint team, already positioned for surveillance duties around the Gashua axis, swiftly launched an ambush to intercept the suspects. During the confrontation, one insurgent was eliminated, while others managed to escape into surrounding terrain. Post-engagement, the security personnel secured a motorcycle and key logistics items allegedly meant to support Boko Haram factions operating in the zone. A reliable source emphasized that the rapid response by troops, combined with the alertness of CJTF operatives, played a crucial role in halting the movement of critical supplies to insurgents. “Their prompt action disrupted the passage of essential resources to Boko Haram elements in that region,” the source confirmed.
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The Nigerian Cassava Growers Association (NCGA) has voiced serious concerns over the alleged illegal transfer of 6,000 hectares of farmland located in Ipao-Ekiti to a private firm, Agbeyewa Group of Companies. The group claims the Ekiti State Government unlawfully reassigned land that had already been officially allocated to them. During a press briefing in Abuja, NCGA’s National President, Mustapha Othman Bakano, revealed that the land in question had been acquired through a collective financial contribution by members of the association, with the explicit purpose of developing an ethanol plant project in partnership with Nosak Group. According to Bakano, the project plan encompassed the acquisition of 6,000 hectares in Ekiti State and an additional 12,000 hectares in Kogi State, all aimed at securing a steady cassava supply for industrial ethanol production. He further detailed that multiple federal bodies, including the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, the Office of the Surveyor General, and the National Environmental Protection Agency, were all involved at various phases of the initiative. Bakano lamented that although several consultations and site assessments had been conducted with Ekiti State officials and project collaborators, no objections were raised at any point—until the Agbeyewa Group reportedly took over the land during the waiting period for regulatory clearance. “We were in the process of obtaining essential environmental permits from the Federal Ministry of Environment when the Agbeyewa Group encroached on the land,” Bakano explained. “We finally secured the needed approval on April 12, 2022, but by that time, the company had already begun operations on the site illegally.” He warned both prospective investors and institutions to avoid engaging with the Agbeyewa Group, emphasizing that the property is currently the subject of an ongoing legal case: Suit No. HCL/16/22 in the Ekiti State High Court. Highlighting NCGA’s dedication to empowering local communities, Bakano said that 170 hectares out of the 400 hectares already cultivated had been distributed to local farmers and youths in Ipao-Ekiti through the Ekiti State Agricultural Development Programme (ADP). This was part of the broader vision to engage the local workforce in cassava farming for agro-industrial development. He expressed grave concerns that this unresolved conflict might jeopardize a transformative initiative capable of significantly improving the region’s rural economy. The cassava-to-ethanol project is projected to generate over 1,000 jobs and stimulate commercial growth across Ekiti and its surrounding areas. Bakano also noted that the ethanol processing plant, designed to produce 150,000 litres of ethanol daily, would rely heavily on cassava sourced from the disputed farmland. “To stabilize the cassava market, particularly during oversupply seasons, we opted to establish a dedicated processing facility,” he stated. “That’s why we acquired the farmland near the proposed ethanol plant—to streamline supply chain logistics.” He concluded by urging the Ekiti State Government to reverse the land reallocation and return the 6,000 hectares to the rightful owners. He also appealed to members of the association to remain calm, assuring them that NCGA’s leadership is making every effort to reach a just resolution.
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The private residence of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, located in Ihima, within the Okehi Local Government Area of Kogi State, was reportedly attacked late on Tuesday night, June 17, 2025. According to local witnesses, the gunmen launched their assault by smashing the windows of the senator’s house. However, their plans were thwarted thanks to the quick intervention of security operatives, including the Nigerian Police Force, community vigilante teams, and nearby residents, who collectively repelled the assailants. During the coordinated response, one individual—identified as Suberu Jose—was apprehended at the scene. Locals described him as a well-known individual in the area. Reports allege that Jose confessed to his role in prior attacks on the property, suggesting that this incident marks his third attempt on Senator Natasha’s residence. Before the police could secure the suspect, an irate mob nearly carried out jungle justice, but law enforcement agents managed to intervene and take Jose into official custody. Among the items retrieved from him were a machete and several traditional charms, possibly intended for spiritual protection or intimidation. Meanwhile, other accomplices believed to be involved in the attack reportedly fled the scene with dangerous weapons. Authorities are continuing their efforts to track and apprehend the fleeing suspects. This recent assault mirrors an earlier incident that took place on April 15, 2025, when the senator’s family house was also targeted by unknown attackers. Speaking on the matter, Isreal Arogbonlo, Chief Press Secretary to Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, confirmed the development and urged the public to remain peaceful. He stated: “We urge the public to stay calm and continue to seek justice through lawful means. The senator’s unwavering commitment to truth and her dedication to representing her constituents must not be undermined through acts of violence or threats.”
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Dr. Paul Enenche, the Senior Pastor of Dunamis International Gospel Centre, has humbly declined a ₦30 million donation from Kebbi State’s Governor, Nasir Idris. Instead, he encouraged that the donation be directed toward orphanages or other impactful charitable organizations. This event took place during a recent evangelical outreach crusade organized by the church in Kebbi State, which drew a massive crowd. The generous contribution was publicly announced by the governor’s representative at the event as a token of appreciation for Pastor Enenche’s spiritual leadership and presence in the state. Governor Idris, who was unable to attend in person, was represented by Zayyanu Umar Aliero, the Commissioner for Social Duties in Kebbi State. Aliero stated that the ₦30 million donation was readily available in cash and could be presented to the church immediately. However, in an unexpected yet powerful response, Pastor Enenche graciously declined the monetary offer. Speaking directly to the audience, he expressed gratitude for the kind gesture but insisted that the church would not accept the money. “We deeply appreciate the kind-heartedness of the governor,” Pastor Enenche said, “but we cannot accept this money. Please, redirect it to orphanages or any other charitable initiative of your choosing.” The governor’s envoy acknowledged Pastor Enenche’s humble disposition and respected his decision with appreciation and admiration. Since the incident, the video of Pastor Enenche’s response has gone viral on social media, garnering widespread commendation from Nigerians and beyond. Many have hailed his integrity and unwavering spiritual principles, particularly his refusal to accept public funds during a religious gathering.
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The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has reiterated the agency’s resolve to ensure that recovered assets from corrupt practices are returned for the benefit of Nigerian citizens. Olukoyede delivered this message on Wednesday while touring the Federal University of Applied Sciences located in Kachia, Southern Kaduna. This university, previously known as Nok University, was officially forfeited to the federal government by court ruling after it was linked to suspicious financial activities. Following a presidential directive by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the EFCC transferred the institution for public use, transforming it into an educational center. “This is now a property of the people,” Olukoyede affirmed. “There will be no more re-looting of recovered items. The old order has ended.” He attributed the initiative to President Tinubu’s leadership, acknowledging the critical roles played by Vice President Kashim Shettima and Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State in making the transition possible. The EFCC Chairman expressed admiration for the university’s existing infrastructure, emphasizing the importance of local community involvement in protecting the facility. “Many universities lack what has been established here. It’s now your responsibility to maintain it for coming generations,” he urged. Olukoyede also disclosed that the school is expected to welcome its first set of students by September 2025. He pledged to revisit the institution once academic activities begin. “This is the true purpose of anti-corruption efforts—restoring stolen wealth to its rightful owners: the Nigerian people,” he declared. Prof. Barnabas Qurix, the Vice Chancellor of the newly rebranded university, hailed the event as a monumental development for the region. Senator Sunday Marshall Katung, representing Kaduna South in the Senate, also lauded the transformation, describing it as a breakthrough for a region long overlooked in national development plans.
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Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has dismissed rumours of a fallout between President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima. This follows growing speculation that the President may be considering another candidate as his running mate if he secures the All Progressives Congress (APC) ticket for re-election in 2027. At one point, it was reported that the Vice President was allegedly denied access to the President at the Presidential Villa. In a more recent development, the APC leadership in the North-East, headed by Mustapha Salihu, threw public support behind President Tinubu without mentioning Shettima. This move triggered a reaction from Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum, who led a protest over the endorsement of Tinubu by the APC North-East without involving Shettima. However, during an appearance on Channels Television on Wednesday, Minister Mohammed Idris described the alleged conflict as imaginary and baseless. “This supposed feud exists only in the minds of those who want to believe it,” Idris stated. “I have personally seen the President and the Vice President working together closely, and I’ve been in the same room with both of them recently.” When asked about the possibility of Shettima not being on the 2027 presidential ticket with Tinubu, Idris responded, “Where did you hear that? Was Shettima’s name mentioned when Tinubu was given the ticket the first time? The selection of a vice president is entirely at the discretion of the President.” He continued, “President Tinubu selected Kashim Shettima, and they are collaborating excellently. I’m not aware of any disagreement or tension. These are mere fabrications.” Responding to the report that Shettima was at some point prevented from seeing the President, the Minister dismissed it, comparing the situation to past political rifts. “This is not a case of Atiku and Obasanjo. Tinubu and Shettima have a long-standing relationship. I see no sign that President Tinubu intends to replace his Vice President,” he asserted. “Just yesterday, Vice President Shettima was representing the President at the banquet hall. Almost every week, you’ll find him attending major functions on behalf of the President.” Idris concluded by asking, “Has Vice President Kashim Shettima ever publicly stated that he has any issues with the President?”
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When Bola Ahmed Tinubu emerged as the APC’s flagbearer in the 2023 presidential election, he might have chuckled privately in August 2022 as his running mate, Kashim Shettima, confidently projected their roles during the NBA Annual General Conference in Lagos. “I’ve operated in conflict zones for 18 years. I will command our forces, while my principal, a financial strategist who built Lagos into Africa’s third-largest economy, will focus on economic matters,” Shettima proclaimed, surprising attendees. He emphasized, “By divine will, I will manage national security and personally lead troops throughout the nation.” This, despite being fully aware that Section 130(2) of the 1999 Constitution clearly grants the president sole command of the armed forces. That misstep revealed Shettima’s misunderstanding of the man he joined in a political partnership. Now, nearly two years in, Vice President Shettima may be reflecting on where it all went wrong. Not only was he never allowed to lead the military, but his authority has gradually eroded. Even access to the president appears to have become a rare privilege. In April, reports emerged suggesting Shettima was barred from entering the Presidential Villa. Though the Presidency rebutted the claim on April 19, calling it a “deliberate and coordinated fabrication,” many discerning Nigerians were not convinced. Allegations of severe internal conflict within the Presidency and discord at the highest levels weren’t random rumors but echoes from Aso Rock itself. So, when Tinubu’s 2027 reelection billboards surfaced without Shettima’s image — and the Presidency dismissed any tension — it was interpreted as political manipulation from the playbook of Tinubu himself. But the façade crumbled. A political blow was dealt directly to Shettima — in his native North-East. At an APC stakeholders’ summit in Gombe, top party officials including Mustapha Salihu (North-East National Vice-Chairman) and Abdullahi Ganduje (APC National Chairman) openly endorsed Tinubu as the sole candidate for 2027 — without including Shettima. The backlash was immediate. Delegates reacted angrily, and both officials had to be escorted out. Even an attempt by Bukar Dalori, Deputy National Chairman (North), to endorse both Tinubu and Shettima failed to calm the audience, and the event ended abruptly. But Ganduje and Salihu are mere messengers. The real architect of Shettima’s dilemma is his boss, President Tinubu. These emissaries were merely there to relay a message from the ultimate authority in Aso Rock. Historically, this isn’t unprecedented. In 2003, efforts were made to remove Atiku Abubakar from Olusegun Obasanjo’s re-election ticket. But Atiku had the political capital to resist. Whether Shettima possesses similar political resilience remains to be seen. Even when Atiku remained on the ticket, his relevance in office was severely diminished. In Tinubu’s case, the power play started early — two years ahead of the 2027 elections. Known for his ruthless style, Tinubu is making Shettima’s humiliation a public spectacle. This may be a strategy to provoke Shettima into a political confrontation he is unprepared for. Should Shettima retaliate, he may be quickly removed by the National Assembly under Senate President Godswill Akpabio. Even if retained for electoral convenience, Shettima’s influence will likely diminish further — possibly worse than what Atiku experienced under Obasanjo. What’s shocking isn’t Shettima’s current ordeal, but Nigerians expressing surprise at all. Before his May 29, 2023 inauguration, Tinubu’s team sold him as a democratic savior — a man of law and order, an economic reformer with the “Lagos magic.” His inaugural speech echoed these sentiments: “We shall govern, not rule. We shall listen, not dictate. We seek unity, not division.” He outlined five guiding principles for his administration, first being: “Nigeria will be impartially governed according to the Constitution and rule of law.” Yet, what followed was more image packaging than genuine intent. Over two years, Tinubu has shown little resemblance to a democrat. His decisions reveal an autocratic mindset, intolerant of dissent. Shettima miscalculated in assuming power would be shared. He overlooked Tinubu’s track record — the only governor in the Fourth Republic to work with three different deputies in eight years. Initially, Tinubu was sworn in with Senator Kofoworola Akerele-Bucknor as deputy governor in 1999. By 2002, she was forced out. Femi Pedro, who began Tinubu’s second term in 2003, also fell out and resigned. Tinubu ended that term with Prince Abiodun Ogunleye, who holds the record for Nigeria’s shortest-serving deputy governor — just 13 days. So while Shettima’s situation is unfortunate, the broader concern is the irrelevance of Nigeria’s vice presidency. Constitutionally, the VP’s primary role is to assist the president, who holds the full spectrum of executive powers and may delegate tasks at will. Despite being part of critical bodies like the National Security Council, Federal Executive Council, National Defence Council, and National Economic Council, the VP’s influence depends solely on presidential discretion. This means, no matter how powerful the office appears on paper, it remains weak in practice — reduced to what late Dr. Chukwuemeka Ezeife once called “a spare tyre.” So, has Tinubu politically discarded Shettima ahead of 2027? Most likely. This raises a deeper question: If Nigerian leaders refuse to empower their deputies, why continue wasting billions maintaining such ceremonial roles? And why do politicians still scramble for these powerless positions despite the grim outcomes of those who came before?
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Iran’s Supreme Leader Rejects U.S. Demands Amid Worsening Conflict Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran’s Supreme Leader, on Tuesday vowed that Iran would never bow to external pressure, warning the United States of severe consequences if it decides to intervene in the current conflict. This came shortly after Israel claimed it had demolished the Iranian Internal Security Headquarters in Tehran. This declaration arrived as the crisis entered its sixth day. U.S. President Donald Trump announced that his patience with Iran had run out, but held back from confirming any American military action. Meanwhile, Amnesty International called on both Iran and Israel to prioritize the safety of civilians as the violence intensifies and death tolls rise. Khamenei Condemns U.S. Demands, Slams Israel for Attacking During Nuclear Talks In a televised national address, Khamenei denounced Trump’s demand for Iran’s “unconditional surrender” as utterly unacceptable. He criticized Israel for initiating military strikes during sensitive nuclear negotiations between Iran and the U.S. “This country will never accept any form of imposition. America must understand that any military intrusion will result in damage it cannot recover from,” said Khamenei. In his role as Iran’s ultimate authority since 1989, Khamenei reaffirmed Iran’s uncompromising stance toward Israel. Iran’s UN Mission Reiterates Resistance In a strong statement via X (formerly Twitter), Iran’s delegation to the United Nations stressed the country’s refusal to negotiate or make peace under pressure. “No official in Iran has ever begged at the doors of the White House,” the statement read. “The only thing worse than Trump’s lies is his attempt to threaten Iran’s Supreme Leader. Iran will respond to any threats with equal or greater measures.” Israeli Air Raids Hit Iranian Security and Nuclear Facilities Defense Minister Yoav Gallant reported that Israeli fighter jets had targeted and obliterated the headquarters of Iran’s internal security forces, described as a key tool of suppression under the Iranian regime. “Our air force has demolished Iran’s internal security command— a major symbol of authoritarianism. We will strike Iran’s power centers wherever they exist,” Gallant stated. Earlier attacks by Israeli forces reportedly destroyed buildings manufacturing centrifuge parts for Iran’s nuclear facilities. According to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), these strikes took place near Tehran and in Karaj. Additionally, a third structure where advanced centrifuge rotors were developed was struck, escalating concerns over nuclear instability. Daily Life in Iran Disrupted as Conflict Intensifies The situation in Iran has resulted in fuel shortages and panic buying. Long queues for petrol are now common, according to eyewitnesses at the Bashmakh border crossing with Iraq. “There’s no rice, bread, sugar or tea,” reported a distressed Iranian, Fatah. Another source, a car dealer named Shwan, said: “People are confused and scared. They don’t know what step to take.” Iran Retaliates with Hypersonic Missiles In a major retaliatory move, Iran’s Revolutionary Guards launched Fattah-1 hypersonic missiles at Tel Aviv. These weapons are capable of traveling over five times the speed of sound, with the ability to maneuver mid-flight—making them difficult to intercept. Though none of the missiles reached Tel Aviv, AFP images showed Israel’s air defense systems activated in response. Amnesty International Urges Restraint from Both Nations Calling for the protection of non-combatants, Amnesty International pleaded with both nations to respect civilian safety. “As deaths and injuries climb, both sides must uphold their legal duties to avoid making civilians suffer,” said Agnes Callamard, Amnesty’s Secretary-General. She criticized the U.S. and other G7 nations for focusing on geopolitical gains rather than preventing human suffering. Countries Worldwide Rush to Evacuate Citizens With both Israeli and Iranian residential areas under fire, countries around the world have begun evacuating their nationals due to cancelled flights and closed airspaces. Key Evacuation Updates: Israel Begins Easing Internal Restrictions Despite the ongoing conflict, Israel is preparing to gradually reopen its economy. According to Defence Minister Katz, this is a symbolic victory against Iran. “While Iran tries to cripple us, we’re reopening in defiance,” he said. From Wednesday evening through Friday night, security guidelines were shifted from “essential” to “limited” in several areas, allowing businesses with shelters to reopen. However, schools, beaches, and large public gatherings remain suspended. Timeline of the Conflict After decades of tension, the war erupted Friday when Israel launched a full-scale bombing operation. Iran retaliated with drone and missile attacks. Casualty Figures (as of Monday):
