As Nigerians ushered in the year 2026, feelings of uncertainty, fear, and cautious hope dominated public conversations across the country. These emotions were largely influenced by the persistent insecurity and the economic adjustments experienced in the previous year, 2025, which deepened hardship for many citizens. Despite these concerns, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in his New Year address delivered on January 1, 2026, expressed optimism about Nigeria’s future. He assured Nigerians that the economic reforms initiated in 2023 were gradually yielding results and had reached a stage of maturity. According to the President, these reforms are expected to stimulate economic expansion and integrate no fewer than 10 million Nigerians into productive economic activities. In this report, several Nigerians from different professional backgrounds shared their expectations for the Tinubu-led government in 2026, highlighting areas they believe require urgent attention to improve the well-being of citizens compared to the outgoing year. Transparency and Accountability in Tax Reforms A legal practitioner, Sylvester Agih, emphasized that the implementation of newly introduced tax laws would remain a major national issue throughout 2026. He noted that controversies surrounding alleged alterations of gazetted documents could continue to dominate public discourse if not properly addressed. According to him, President Tinubu must approach the enforcement of these tax laws with maturity, openness, and sincerity. He stressed that transparency would be crucial in restoring public confidence in government policies. Agih further stated that accountability should not end at tax collection. He explained that Nigerians deserve to see tangible evidence of how collected taxes translate into improved public services and infrastructure that directly benefit the common citizen. In his view, governance should ultimately reflect service to the people. Tackling Insecurity Across the Nation A Kwara-based entrepreneur and university lecturer, Hassan Alowonle, identified insecurity as his foremost concern for 2026. He urged the President to confront the problem decisively by dismantling all bandit and terrorist networks across the country, regardless of the social or political influence of those involved. Alowonle expressed deep concern over the surge in violent attacks in Kwara State, describing the level of insecurity experienced in 2025 as unprecedented. He lamented that residents now live in constant fear, unable to sleep peacefully, and called for urgent government intervention to restore safety and stability. Support for Farmers and Power Supply Improvement From another perspective, Benedict Onoja, a journalist based between Kaduna and Abuja, appealed to the President to prioritize the welfare of farmers, particularly those in rural and remote areas. He emphasized the importance of making fertilizers readily available and affordable to peasant farmers, noting that agricultural productivity is critical to national food security. Onoja also identified poor electricity supply as a major obstacle to the growth of small-scale businesses, urging the government to address the power sector more aggressively. Additionally, he called for a stronger political will to combat terrorism, especially in farming communities where insecurity has disrupted food production and livelihoods. Personal Resolve Over Government Expectations Offering a contrasting view, Mcfrederick Akor Edache, convener of the Frederick Emergency Response Support Initiative (FREER), stated that he holds no expectations from either the President or the Nigerian state in 2026. He explained that his focus is solely on achieving his personal goals without relying on government intervention or external assistance. While acknowledging that supportive policies could make life easier, he maintained that his aspirations remain independent of political developments. Addressing Unemployment and Fair Recruitment Another Nigerian, Divine Mike, appealed to President Tinubu to introduce policies aimed at reducing unemployment, particularly among young graduates. He lamented the rising unemployment rate and alleged that many public sector job opportunities are often monopolized by influential individuals, leaving qualified candidates unfairly excluded. According to him, this trend has denied many Nigerians the chance to contribute meaningfully to national development. Mike advised the President to adopt transparent recruitment practices similar to those implemented by Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia, where employment was based strictly on merit and examination performance rather than political connections. He also urged the President to intensify military action against terrorists and bandits, warning that reliance on foreign intervention could portray the government as weak. In his view, national security should be treated as a priority rather than a political tool. Food Prices, Fuel Costs, and Local Government Autonomy Patience Samuel appealed to the President to take decisive steps to regulate the prices of food items and petroleum products. She expressed concern that fuel prices often remain high at filling stations despite official announcements of reductions by relevant authorities. She also called on the President to enforce full compliance with the Supreme Court ruling on local government autonomy. According to her, many state governors continue to exert control over local government funds, releasing only a small portion to council chairmen. Samuel argued that this practice has hindered grassroots development and weakened local governance. She suggested that the Federal Government should withhold allocations from states that fail to comply with local government autonomy as a means of enforcing accountability.
A legal expert and public affairs commentator, Liborous Oshoma, has stated that the alleged violation of an agreement between Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, and his immediate predecessor, Nyesom Wike, cannot legally justify impeachment proceedings against the sitting governor. Oshoma made this clarification during a weekend appearance on Arise Television, where he offered a detailed legal breakdown of the ongoing political tension in Rivers State. His comments were monitored by LMSINT MEDIA. According to the legal practitioner, Nigeria’s constitution does not recognize a breach of political agreements as a lawful basis for removing an elected governor from office. He further emphasized that impeachment is strictly guided by constitutional provisions, not political understandings or informal settlements. Courts Cannot Prevent Impeachment Notices In his analysis, Oshoma also pointed out that there is no legal provision empowering courts to restrain lawmakers from serving an impeachment notice on a governor. He explained that impeachment notices are legislative processes, and courts typically avoid interfering unless constitutional violations occur during the process. Background to the Rivers Political Agreement Oshoma recalled that a similar disagreement over the same political arrangement previously led to the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State in March of the previous year. He explained that following escalating political tensions, key stakeholders—including the President—intervened. An agreement was drafted, signed by the parties involved, and later authenticated by the President as an executive order. However, upon returning to Rivers State, Governor Fubara was reportedly advised by close aides and political associates that an executive order issued at the federal level cannot legally compel a state governor. This legal interpretation, Oshoma noted, ultimately triggered the collapse of the agreement. It was after this breakdown that political statements such as “agreement is disagreement” began to surface publicly, reflecting the deepening rift between both camps. Illegal Agreements Cannot Be Enforced Oshoma further stressed that not all agreements are legally enforceable, particularly if their content contradicts constitutional or statutory provisions. He explained that if any part of the agreement required Governor Fubara to co-approve or jointly assent to a state budget with Nyesom Wike, such a clause would be outright illegal, since Wike is no longer the governor of Rivers State. Under Nigerian law, a governor cannot delegate or share constitutional responsibilities with a private citizen or former office holder. Therefore, any agreement demanding such action would lack legal standing and cannot be enforced by any court. Political Control and Executed Provisions Expanding on the situation, Oshoma acknowledged that some aspects of the agreement may already have been implemented politically, even if they lack legal force. He cited the current political structure in Rivers State as an example. According to him: These developments, Oshoma suggested, indicate that while the agreement may be politically influential, political dominance does not translate into constitutional authority—especially when it comes to impeachment. Key Legal Takeaway Oshoma concluded that impeachment must be based strictly on gross misconduct as defined by the constitution, not on perceived betrayal of political alliances or agreements. Any attempt to remove a governor outside these legal boundaries risks being unconstitutional.
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A security and crime management expert, Fidel Iduh, has stated that Nigeria urgently needs additional United States airstrikes as part of efforts to address the worsening security situation across the country. Iduh made this assertion during a Saturday interview on Arise Television, which was monitored by LMSINT MEDIA. According to him, foreign military intervention has become necessary due to the persistent failure to curb violent activities within Nigeria’s borders. His comments followed a recent warning issued by United States President Donald Trump, who reportedly threatened further military action against Nigeria should the continuous killing of Christians not be brought under control. Reacting to the development, Iduh described the potential execution of the U.S. president’s threat as a step forward for Nigeria’s national security framework. He noted that while it is regrettable that the situation has deteriorated to this level, the reality reflects the seriousness of the country’s internal security challenges. He emphasized that it is deeply concerning that years of complaints by citizens regarding banditry, terrorism, and violent attacks have failed to yield decisive solutions from within. According to him, if the protection of lives and property can only be strengthened through external assistance, then such intervention should be welcomed. Iduh further explained that the U.S. airstrike carried out on Christmas Day delivered a strong warning to extremist groups, including Lakurawa fighters and ISIS-linked insurgents, operating in affected regions. He said the strike demonstrated that international forces are willing to act when insecurity reaches alarming levels. The security expert concluded that decisive action, whether local or international, is necessary to restore safety, discourage insurgent operations, and reassure citizens who have lived under constant fear due to recurring attacks.
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The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, paid a visit to Port Harcourt City Local Government Area on Saturday as part of his ongoing appreciation tour across Rivers State. The visit, which formed part of Wike’s “thank you” outreach to supporters, attracted a large turnout of residents, party loyalists, and women groups who gathered to welcome the former governor back to the state capital. In a symbolic show of respect and admiration, women at the venue removed and spread their wrappers on the ground, creating a path for Wike’s convoy to drive through toward the podium where he later addressed the crowd. The gesture, which holds deep cultural significance in many parts of the Niger Delta, was used to demonstrate honour, loyalty, and acceptance. As Wike’s entourage moved forward, the atmosphere turned festive. Supporters cheered loudly, danced, and waved as the minister drove over the laid wrappers. The women, alongside other attendees, expressed visible excitement, marking the moment with songs and celebration. The Port Harcourt visit is part of a broader tour of local government areas in Rivers State by the FCT Minister. According to aides and supporters, the tour is aimed at appreciating communities for the support he received over the years while also reconnecting with grassroots loyalists. During several stops on this tour, Wike has used the opportunity to speak on political developments ahead of the 2027 general elections. He has openly cautioned certain political figures within the state, stressing that a sudden show of allegiance to President Bola Tinubu would not automatically guarantee them party tickets in the next election cycle. The minister has also continued to assert his influence within the state’s political structure, making it clear that political loyalty and consistency will play a major role in future decisions. Additionally, Wike has not shied away from addressing the ongoing political tension in Rivers State. His remarks during recent visits have further highlighted the power struggle between himself and Governor Siminalayi Fubara, particularly regarding control of the political landscape and party structure within the state. The Port Harcourt event once again underscored Wike’s strong grassroots backing, especially among women groups, and reinforced his continued relevance in Rivers State politics despite his current role at the federal level.
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The Lagos State Government has announced a temporary shutdown of all public parks managed by the Lagos State Parks and Gardens Agency (LASPARK) to allow for scheduled maintenance and infrastructure improvements. According to an official statement issued on January 9 and shared through LASPARK’s verified communication channels in the early hours of Saturday, the agency disclosed that the closure will take effect from January 12 to January 31, 2026. LASPARK explained that the decision was influenced by the increased level of human traffic recorded across various recreational centres during the just-concluded festive period. The agency emphasized that the temporary restriction of access is necessary to restore and upgrade facilities that experienced heavy use. In its announcement, LASPARK clarified that the closure will affect all public parks under its management across Lagos State, including some of the most frequently visited recreational locations. These include Ndubisi Kanu Park, Alausa JJT Park, and Dr. Finnih Abayomi Park in Oregun, among others spread across different parts of the state. Providing further insight into the reason behind the development, the agency noted that the maintenance exercise will cover critical areas such as landscaping work, structural repairs, and general facility enhancements. These activities are aimed at improving safety standards, cleanliness, and overall user experience for residents and visitors. LASPARK also linked the temporary shutdown to its long-term responsibility of preserving green spaces within the state. The agency stated that the maintenance programme aligns with its core mandate of ensuring that parks continue to serve as healthy environments for leisure, relaxation, and community wellness, while also supporting environmental sustainability. Reassuring the public, LASPARK confirmed that the maintenance schedule is time-bound and that all affected parks will be reopened immediately after the completion of the exercise. Residents were encouraged to plan their outdoor activities accordingly during the closure period.
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The Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, has called for stronger institutional support for widows of fallen Nigerian armed forces personnel, stressing that their welfare must remain a top priority in honour of the sacrifices made by their late spouses in service to the nation. Dr. Hamzat made this appeal during a special Jumat Service organised to mark the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day, which is observed annually on January 15 to recognise the bravery and commitment of Nigeria’s military personnel. According to the deputy governor, sustained welfare programmes, structured financial assistance, and empowerment initiatives are essential in ensuring that widows of deceased service members are not left vulnerable after the loss of their breadwinners. He described these efforts as a moral obligation and a meaningful way of appreciating the ultimate sacrifices made by members of the armed forces who gave their lives in defence of the country. In his address, Dr. Hamzat specifically urged the Lagos State Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation to deepen its engagement in providing long-term support systems for these widows, noting that government intervention can significantly improve their living conditions and social stability. Beyond welfare matters, the deputy governor also addressed broader societal concerns, particularly the persistent mischaracterisation of Muslims as terrorists in international narratives. He firmly stated that Islam is fundamentally a religion of peace, rejecting any attempt to associate the faith with violence. Dr. Hamzat explained that Islamic teachings strictly prohibit harming others, referencing Qur’anic principles that equate the injury of one person to the injury of the entire community. He maintained that any act of violence contradicts the core values of Islam and should not be attributed to the religion or its adherents. He further encouraged Muslim leaders and scholars to take an active role in reshaping public perception by promoting positive narratives about Islam. According to him, educational initiatives, public enlightenment programmes, and community engagement are crucial tools in countering widespread misconceptions about the faith. Earlier during the service, Imam Saheed Ahmad, who led the Jumat prayers, reminded worshippers that maintaining national security is a collective responsibility that extends beyond the duties of security agencies alone. The Imam noted that individual conduct plays a significant role in ensuring societal safety, stressing that responsible behaviour, mindful communication, and peaceful interaction within communities can ease the pressure on security forces. He stated that every law-abiding citizen contributes to national stability by acting responsibly in daily life. Imam Ahmad also paid tribute to the fallen men and women of the Nigerian armed forces, acknowledging their dedication and sacrifice in protecting the country. He emphasized that their service deserves continuous prayers and divine reward. Additionally, he cautioned against the spread of rumours and unverified information, warning that such actions can endanger public safety and undermine national security efforts.
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Yobe State Governor, Mai Mala Buni, has officially revalidated his membership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the party continues its nationwide electronic revalidation and fresh membership registration exercise. The governor carried out the revalidation process under the supervision of the Yobe State APC Chairman, Alhaji Mohammed Gadaka, alongside other party officials. The development was made public through a statement issued by the governor’s Media Aide, Mamman Mohammed. Governor Buni described the exercise as a vital step toward strengthening the party’s internal structure and ensuring proper documentation of its growing membership base. He urged all APC members across the state to take the process seriously and ensure their participation. According to the governor, no member of the party should be left out of the exercise, stressing that registration and revalidation remain critical for inclusiveness and effective party administration. “Every member of the party should either be registered or have their membership revalidated. No one should be disenfranchised in this process,” Buni said. He further emphasized that as a dominant political party in Yobe State and Nigeria at large, the APC must support its numerical strength with accurate and verifiable membership records. “As the leading political party in the state and the country, we must justify our strength through proper documentation of our members,” the governor added. Meanwhile, the APC Chairman in Yobe State, Alhaji Mohammed Gadaka, has intensified calls for active participation in the ongoing APC e-membership registration and revalidation exercise, highlighting the importance of grassroots mobilisation and public awareness. Gadaka also appealed to residents of the state to participate fully in the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise currently being conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). He noted that civic engagement and voter registration are essential pillars of democratic growth, especially as the country prepares for the 2027 general elections. The state party chairman made these remarks during a strategic meeting with members of the Yobe State House of Assembly at the Assembly Complex in Damaturu. During the meeting, he briefed lawmakers on the progress recorded so far in the APC e-membership registration exercise. “I want to encourage party leaders and stakeholders not only to participate actively in the ongoing e-registration exercise but also to intensify mobilisation and awareness creation at the grassroots,” Gadaka stated.“At the same time, I urge the people of Yobe State to turn out in large numbers for the Continuous INEC Voter Registration exercise.” In response, the Speaker of the Yobe State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Chiroma Buba Mashio, commended both the APC leadership and Governor Mai Mala Buni for demonstrating commitment by leading the process firsthand. The lawmakers unanimously expressed their readiness to mobilise strong grassroots support to ensure the overall success of the APC e-membership registration and revalidation exercise across the state.
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Two former governors of Abia State, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu and Chief Theodore Orji, have reportedly come together in a strategic political engagement focused on the 2027 general election. The closed-door meeting took place in Umuahia, the Abia State capital, and was aimed at rallying political stakeholders to challenge the current administration led by Governor Alex Otti. Speaking during the meeting held on Friday, Senator Kalu disclosed that the gathering brought together influential political figures who either governed or occupied key public offices in Abia State between 2009 and 2023. According to him, the primary intention of the meeting was to foster unity among experienced political actors and consolidate their influence into a single, formidable bloc ahead of the next election cycle. The Abia North lawmaker further suggested that the political group should be expanded to include all former office holders who served within that same period. He emphasized that the wealth of experience, institutional knowledge, and contributions of past leaders should not be dismissed or written off in the political history of the state. Kalu explained that the collective, popularly referred to as “The Team,” played a significant role in steering the affairs of Abia State during their respective years in power. He pushed back strongly against narratives suggesting that previous administrations were inconsequential, stressing that governance is a continuous and evolving process rather than an isolated effort. Describing leadership as a progressive chain, Kalu stated that power in Abia State had moved sequentially from one administration to another, each building on the foundation of its predecessor. “Leadership is a relay,” he said. “I handed over to Senator T.A. Orji, who handed over to Okezie Ikpeazu. No one person can claim that we achieved nothing. If nothing was done, then where would our people be today?” He maintained that every administration contributed in its own capacity to the state’s growth and development, insisting that such efforts should be acknowledged rather than erased from public discourse. Senator Kalu made it clear that the group’s mission is firmly focused on political change in Abia State in 2027. He stressed that their movement is not restricted by party loyalty, noting that the platform is inclusive and open to collaborators across different political affiliations who share the same objective. According to him, the alliance is driven by shared experience and a common vision for Abia State, rather than partisan boundaries, signaling a broad-based political strategy as preparations for the 2027 elections gradually begin.
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A respected elder statesman in Rivers State, Kingsley Wenenda Wali, has appealed to residents to remain calm and avoid emotional reactions amid the ongoing political disagreement between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike. Wali described the tension currently playing out in the state as a routine political occurrence, stressing that disagreements of this nature are common when political power is involved. According to him, the situation should not be exaggerated or misinterpreted as a sign of instability or failure in Rivers State. He explained that the disagreement reflects a fallout between two political stakeholders who jointly secured political power but later became divided over the terms and benefits tied to that political arrangement. In his view, the issue is not unusual in political settings where alliances are formed for electoral success. Despite this, Wali expressed concern over the alleged agreement that was reportedly reached between Governor Fubara and Minister Wike before the 2023 governorship election. He noted that the refusal of both parties to publicly clarify the content of that agreement has made it difficult for Rivers people to properly understand the root of the disagreement. According to Wali, transparency is essential if citizens are to make informed judgments about the situation. He argued that without knowing the exact terms agreed upon, it would be unfair for the public to take sides or apportion blame. He maintained that the ongoing dispute should not be seen as a crisis but rather as a political disagreement between individuals who once shared a common goal. “What is happening in Rivers State is purely political, and I don’t believe people should be overly distracted by the behavior of politicians,” Wali stated. He further explained that both Governor Fubara and Minister Wike were involved in discussions and reached an agreement before the election, yet neither has come forward to explain what was agreed upon. “If we are told the terms of their agreement, then we can properly evaluate who may have acted in bad faith,” he said. Wali added that it would be inappropriate for him or anyone else who was not part of those discussions to make absolute judgments about individuals who are now in conflict over political benefits. He emphasized that it is unjust for any political actor to enter into an agreement, benefit from it, and later abandon its terms while still seeking public sympathy. According to him, if such an agreement was not in the best interest of Rivers people, the responsible party has a moral duty to acknowledge it and take corrective steps. Wali questioned whether the agreement truly served the long-term interest of Rivers State, stating that political integrity demands accountability and honesty. He referenced former President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, who openly admitted that the election that brought him into office was flawed and committed himself to electoral reforms. Wali cited this as an example of leadership that prioritizes truth and national interest over personal gain. He also criticized attempts to portray the current governor as completely innocent, arguing that no individual can benefit from the excesses or misconduct of a previous administration and later claim moral superiority. Wali recalled events surrounding the 2023 governorship election, alleging that supporters of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) camped for several weeks at the office of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). According to him, this action was aimed at preventing the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Tonye Cole, from obtaining certified true copies of election documents needed for his legal challenge. He argued that benefiting from such actions and later claiming innocence or moral authority amounts to hypocrisy. “You cannot benefit from wrongdoing and expect to be described as innocent,” Wali said. He stressed that the public should not forget how electoral processes were allegedly manipulated, noting that anyone who benefited from such actions should not expect to be viewed as blameless. Wali urged Rivers people to critically assess both pre-election and post-election activities and to reflect on whether those actions truly served the long-term interest of the state. He further observed that Rivers residents have, over time, become accustomed to political pressure and governance challenges, describing the current situation as a continuation of familiar political patterns. In conclusion, Wali expressed confidence that the disagreement between Governor Fubara and Minister Wike would eventually resolve itself. He emphasized that the matter remains a political issue and should not be allowed to divide or destabilize Rivers people.
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Nigeria’s rich ethnic, cultural, and religious diversity should serve as a unifying force rather than a factor for division, Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has emphasized. The governor made this assertion during a Special Jumat prayer service organized to commemorate the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day, which took place at the Central Mosque, Kobiti, Abeokuta. The event was held in honour of fallen Nigerian heroes who paid the ultimate price in service to the nation. Governor Abiodun noted that the prevailing security challenges in the country serve as a reminder that peace does not occur by chance. According to him, peace is achieved and preserved through collective sacrifice, constant vigilance, and national unity among citizens. Represented at the occasion by his Deputy, Mrs Noimot Salako-Oyedele, the governor reiterated that Nigeria remains a nation worth protecting. He called on citizens to consciously reject violence, promote peaceful coexistence, embrace dialogue, and support legitimate efforts aimed at safeguarding lives and property across the country. He stressed that the Armed Forces Remembrance Day is a moment of deep reflection, reminding Nigerians that the peace currently enjoyed was obtained at a tremendous cost. The governor explained that the fallen heroes stood firmly between the nation and chaos, offering their lives selflessly without consideration for ethnicity, religion, or regional background. According to him, these brave men and women served under one national identity, one flag, and one oath, and their sacrifices continue to bind Nigerians together as one people. Governor Abiodun further assured that his administration remains committed to upholding the welfare, dignity, and wellbeing of the families left behind by fallen service members. He also commended the Nigerian Legion for its unwavering dedication to preserving the memories of departed heroes, standing up for their families, and advocating for their rights. In the same vein, the governor expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his leadership and consistent dedication to national unity and security. He acknowledged that under President Tinubu’s administration, deliberate steps are being taken to strengthen the Armed Forces, improve the welfare of security personnel, and confront the country’s evolving security challenges. Delivering a sermon during the prayer session, the Mufasi of Egbaland, Alhaji Abdulai Odaranile, highlighted the importance of security in any nation. He warned that countries lacking adequate protection of lives and property are vulnerable to instability and domination. He lamented the loss of lives among those entrusted with defending the nation, noting that God is pleased with individuals who gather to pray for fallen heroes and extend comfort to their families. Speaking on behalf of the traditional rulers present, the Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Gbadebo, emphasized that addressing insecurity requires a collective effort from all segments of society. He urged the Nigerian military to remain professional, focused on their constitutional duties, and avoid any involvement in activities capable of undermining democracy. Earlier in his welcome address, the Baba Adinni of Egbaland and former Military Administrator, Captain Abdulrasheed Raji, offered prayers for divine guidance for the President and state governors, expressing hope that their leadership would steer the nation toward peace, stability, and progress.
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A coalition of former governors, lawmakers, and political appointees who held public offices in Abia State between 1999 and 2023 has announced plans to initiate legal action against the current governor, Alex Otti, over his continued operation from a private residence. The group reached this resolution during its second official meeting, which took place at the private home of a former Abia State governor, Theodore Orji. According to information released after the gathering, members expressed dissatisfaction with Governor Otti’s decision to run state affairs from his personal residence located in Nvosi, within Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area. The political team is made up of prominent figures who previously governed or served in Abia State. Among them are former governors Orji Uzor Kalu, Theodore Orji, and Okezie Ikpeazu, alongside other past legislators and political office holders who were active during the stated period. Following their deliberations, the group released a formal communique outlining their position. In the statement, they emphasized that the proposed legal action is intended to compel Governor Otti to vacate his private residence and officially conduct government business from the Government House situated in Umuahia, the state capital. The communique clearly stated that a lawsuit should be filed to ensure compliance with what they described as appropriate administrative conduct. The group maintained that the Government House exists for official purposes and should serve as the primary location for the governor’s daily operations. The statement was publicly read by Victor Ike Oye, a former media aide to the Abia State government. While addressing journalists, he conveyed the group’s concern and disappointment that, despite the passage of time since assuming office, Governor Otti has not relocated his official activities to the Government House. In addition to the legal matter, the group also used the opportunity to express political alignment at the federal level. They declared their preparedness to support the re-election bid of President Bola Tinubu. Furthermore, the team expressed appreciation to the President for nominating one of their members, former governor Okezie Ikpeazu, for an ambassadorial appointment. The development adds another layer to the ongoing political discourse in Abia State, particularly around governance practices, institutional traditions, and the expectations placed on elected office holders.
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Senate President Godswill Akpabio has reportedly decided to forgive individuals he previously regarded as his offenders, including prominent political figures, and withdraw all ongoing legal actions he had initiated against them. This development notably includes the high-profile defamation lawsuit against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. According to his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Hon. Eseme Eyiboh, Akpabio’s decision was profoundly influenced by the sermon delivered during a New Year church service. Eyiboh, in a statement he personally signed, revealed that the resolution followed a sermon preached at the New Year Mass at Sacred Heart Parish in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. The priest, Reverend Father Donatus Udoette, delivered a homily emphasizing the themes of forgiveness, letting go of resentment, and prioritizing peace over personal grudges. “At a point during the sermon, the Senate President recognized that the message was addressing him directly,” Eyiboh said. Immediately after the service, Akpabio publicly announced that he had resolved to forgive all those who had wronged him, making it his New Year resolution for 2026. “He resolved not just to forgive verbally but to take actionable steps. This is why he instructed that all pending defamation suits he had filed be officially withdrawn,” Eyiboh explained. Among the cases affected is the ₦200 billion lawsuit against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, which stemmed from allegations repeatedly denied by Akpabio and formally challenged in court. Eyiboh clarified that approximately nine defamation cases, including some involving Akpabio’s close aides, will no longer be pursued. “In Nigerian politics, it is common for leaders to leverage the courts to defend their reputations. However, this time, Akpabio opted for forgiveness over prolonged litigation,” Eyiboh noted. Faith-Inspired Leadership Eyiboh emphasized that the decision to forgive should not be perceived as a weakness, but rather as an expression of principled leadership rooted in faith. “Senator Akpabio is a devoted Christian. His faith is consistent and sincere, not seasonal or performative. He sees power as a trust from God, which comes with moral responsibilities.” In Nigeria, faith in politics is widespread, yet steadfast adherence to ethical principles is rare. Akpabio’s Christianity, Eyiboh explained, has significantly shaped his perspective on authority and governance. “For him, power is not merely seized or negotiated; it is entrusted. What is entrusted carries a moral obligation. This is where forgiveness moves beyond sentiment and becomes a framework for political philosophy.” Eyiboh highlighted that this approach has also influenced Akpabio’s leadership style in the Senate. “Under his guidance, the Senate has remained unusually productive and calm. More than ninety-six bills have been passed in two years, with over fifty-eight assented to by the President. In a chamber often characterized by theatrics, this stability is deliberate and reflects a leadership that values restraint, consensus, and constructive governance over spectacle.” Forgiveness as Political Strategy Eyiboh noted that withdrawing the defamation suits is both spiritually and politically strategic. “Legal battles consume focus and energy. By letting go, Akpabio is reclaiming emotional bandwidth necessary for institutional leadership. Forgiveness allows him to recommit to national priorities, promoting unity and nation-building.” He acknowledged that some critics might perceive forgiveness as a privilege for the powerful. “But this is precisely why it matters. When leaders demonstrate restraint, they set a precedent. Not every offense warrants retaliation, and not every disagreement must culminate in court.” Eyiboh further emphasized that Akpabio’s decision comes at a time when Senate unity is critical, amid circulating rumors of internal disagreements. “Opting for reconciliation rather than escalation strengthens institutional cohesion and enhances leadership credibility without relying on intimidation.” Public Lesson for Nigerians According to Eyiboh, Akpabio views forgiveness not just as a personal virtue but also as a lesson for the Nigerian populace. “By prioritizing forgiveness over litigation, Akpabio demonstrates that leadership can be exercised with generosity, credibility, and moral authority. True leadership does not demand constant confrontation; not every insult necessitates a legal response. Forgiveness involves risk—it may be misinterpreted as weakness—but it is a deliberate act of example.” Eyiboh added that Akpabio’s gesture challenges the false dichotomy often seen in Nigerian politics: leaders who deliver results but erode trust, and leaders who speak ethically but govern ineffectively. “The real test will be the sustainability of forgiveness. Its success will be measured by whether it reduces tensions, encourages reciprocal restraint, and fosters a culture of accountability and reconciliation.”
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The Jigawa State government has emphasized that resolving the recurring clashes between farmers and herders requires a joint effort from all stakeholders, including community leaders, farmers, herders, and government agencies. This statement was made by the Deputy Governor of Jigawa State, Engineer Aminu Usman Gumel, during the inauguration ceremony of the newly elected officials of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Jigawa State chapter, held in Dutse. Engineer Gumel stressed the importance of collective responsibility and sustained commitment from all parties involved to effectively address the persistent farmers-herdsmen conflicts that have affected communities across the state. He highlighted that the government is dedicated to fostering harmonious relationships and ensuring peaceful coexistence between farmers and cattle rearers. He specifically urged herders and farmers to work hand-in-hand with the state government in seeking long-term and sustainable solutions to these disputes. According to him, the administration of Governor Umar Namadi is fully committed to improving the welfare and livelihoods of Fulani cattle rearers. He noted that the creation of a dedicated Ministry of Livestock was part of the government’s strategy to tackle the challenges faced by herders and enhance agricultural productivity in Jigawa. The Deputy Governor also took the opportunity to congratulate the newly elected MACBAN executives, encouraging all association members to actively participate in the ongoing voter registration exercise. He described voter registration as an essential step for ensuring credible leadership and promoting community-driven development. Earlier, the National Chairman of MACBAN, Alhaji Baba Usman Nganjarma, reaffirmed the association’s commitment to collaborating with the government in fostering peace and development. He emphasized that the new executives are expected to carry out their responsibilities in strict adherence to the association’s constitution. He further warned that any official found neglecting their duties would be replaced to maintain accountability and efficiency within the association. The Jigawa State government’s proactive measures, coupled with MACBAN’s cooperation, reflect a growing effort to create a peaceful and prosperous environment for both farmers and herders. By fostering dialogue, collaboration, and responsible leadership, Jigawa aims to reduce the occurrence of conflicts and support sustainable agricultural and livestock development. Resolving farmers-herders conflicts is not solely the responsibility of government authorities; it requires active participation from local communities, traditional leaders, and stakeholders to promote peace and security across the state. With ongoing efforts and collaboration, Jigawa State is positioning itself as a model for conflict resolution in Northern Nigeria, demonstrating that collective responsibility is key to lasting peace and socio-economic growth.
