A senior figure in the All Progressives Congress (APC), Chief Eze Chukwuemeka Eze, has openly called on Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State to immediately dismiss all political appointees installed by the recently departed Sole Administrators during the governor’s six-month suspension. Governor Fubara officially returned to the Rivers State Government House on Friday, marking the end of his six-month suspension, which was ordered by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Despite widespread criticism and strong disapproval from citizens, political stakeholders, and civil rights groups, the suspension remained in force until its conclusion, with the governor resuming duties the very next day after the Sole Administrator vacated office. During the governor’s absence, former Naval Chief Ibok-Ette Ibas, who served as the Sole Administrator, appointed several individuals into key offices within the Rivers State Government. Chief Eze, a respected political voice and former National Publicity Secretary of the now-defunct New People’s Democratic Party (nPDP), strongly argued that Governor Fubara must not retain or work with any of those appointees. Eze emphasized that it would be politically dangerous for the governor to inherit appointees from what he described as an “illegal administration.” According to him, Governor Fubara must dismiss all individuals appointed by the Sole Administrator to safeguard his leadership integrity and prevent political manipulation. The APC chieftain went further, warning against any attempt by political stakeholders, particularly former Rivers State governor and current Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, to impose commissioners, advisers, or aides on Fubara’s administration. Eze claimed that Wike had earlier promised not to engage in such “devilish acts,” but the governor must remain cautious and proactive to prevent undue interference. Eze also stressed that, in order to restore stability in the Rivers political space, all lawmakers in the State Assembly who resigned or previously worked with Governor Fubara should be reinstated to their legislative positions. Such action, he noted, would help calm political tensions and create a more harmonious working environment in the state. The APC leader further appealed to President Bola Tinubu to provide firm reassurance to Governor Fubara, ensuring that the governor will be fully protected against any form of political sabotage or humiliation. In his words, the governor must be shielded from possible impeachment plots orchestrated by certain “funny members” of the Rivers State House of Assembly. Eze concluded by stating that, should the president fail to offer this crucial assurance, Governor Fubara has no option but to fully exercise his constitutional powers as the executive leader of Rivers State in order to defend his position and authority. This political development marks another chapter in Rivers State’s turbulent governance crisis, highlighting ongoing power struggles among prominent figures and the importance of executive independence within Nigeria’s democratic framework.
US President Donald Trump has announced a dramatic rise in the cost of the H-1B visa, a program widely used by high-tech professionals, particularly from India. According to a senior US official, the visa fee will now be set at $100,000, a sharp increase from the current charge of less than $1,000. This development is part of Trump’s broader immigration clampdown, a policy stance he intensified upon returning to the White House. While his administration had already focused heavily on restricting immigration in general, this marks the first direct move against the H-1B program, a system Silicon Valley companies have depended on for decades. Details of the New H-1B Visa Fee Hike The confirmation of the new cost was first highlighted by Bloomberg News, later backed by a US government official. The H-1B visa program, which has long been a bridge for skilled technology professionals to work in the United States, will now become significantly costlier for employers. Trump’s administration has stated that the purpose of this drastic fee increase is to protect American workers from wage suppression. By raising the entry barrier for foreign talent, the government aims to discourage companies from relying on international labor at the expense of domestic professionals. Background of the H-1B Visa Program The United States issues 85,000 H-1B visas annually under a lottery-based system. Indian workers account for nearly three-quarters of these slots, making India the single largest beneficiary of the program. Many of these professionals either relocate permanently to the US or frequently travel between the two countries to serve multinational technology firms. This system has been central to the growth of companies in Silicon Valley and other innovation hubs across the country. Employers often prefer skilled Indian developers, engineers, and IT professionals due to their expertise and availability. Concerns from the Tech Industry The sharp increase in H-1B costs has raised alarm within the technology industry. Prominent voices, including tech entrepreneur Elon Musk, once considered an ally of Trump, have openly criticized the move. Musk and other leaders argue that the United States does not have enough domestic tech specialists to fill the large number of positions available in the sector. If companies cannot access affordable foreign talent, industry experts warn, the American technology sector could face severe challenges in meeting demand, driving up labor costs and potentially pushing some companies to move jobs overseas.
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Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has openly expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, for their pivotal efforts in restoring peace and stability to the state. Governor Fubara gave the remarks on Friday while addressing his supporters at the Government House in Port Harcourt, shortly after he returned from the political suspension initiated by the intervention of President Tinubu. A Grand Welcome in Port Harcourt The governor’s homecoming was met with a jubilant crowd as enthusiastic supporters gathered in large numbers to celebrate his return. Their presence underscored the unwavering loyalty of Rivers people who stood firmly by him during the challenging period. Addressing the gathering, Governor Fubara expressed heartfelt gratitude to the citizens of Rivers State, acknowledging their steadfastness and solidarity. “I sincerely appreciate everyone who played a role in restoring calm and order to Rivers State. I was not surprised that people expected me to speak immediately upon my arrival, and I want to make it clear that I do not take President Tinubu’s magnanimity for granted,” he said. Acknowledging Tinubu and Wike’s Intervention Governor Fubara went further to specifically commend both President Bola Tinubu and former Rivers State Governor, now FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, for their critical roles in resolving the political impasse that shook the state. He remarked: “I remain deeply thankful to our father, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his timely involvement and consistent commitment to sustaining peace and stability in Rivers State. I equally extend appreciation to His Excellency, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, Honourable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, for his proactive role in ensuring that this crisis was brought to an amicable end.” Call for Unity and Fresh Beginnings Governor Fubara emphasized the need for unity, reconciliation, and inclusiveness as Rivers State embarks on a new chapter of governance. He said: “We must never forget that even the most expensive peace is still more valuable than the cheapest war. This is a time for healing, rebuilding, and starting afresh. Let us work with renewed determination and collective hope to create a more peaceful and prosperous Rivers State where no one is left behind.” Achievements Amidst Turbulence Reflecting on his administration’s journey, Governor Fubara highlighted that despite the political challenges, significant progress has been made in several critical sectors. According to him, in just two years of governance, his administration has recorded achievements in infrastructure development, education reforms, healthcare improvements, and social investments. He added: “Now that normalcy has been restored, our foremost responsibility is to refocus on governance and deliver on the projects we initiated. We will revive the economy, ensure security of lives and property, and improve the wellbeing of every Rivers citizen.” Governor Fubara concluded with a message of hope, assuring Rivers people that his administration remains dedicated to inclusive development, reconciliation, and lasting peace.
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Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo has firmly dismissed persistent claims that he sought a third term in office, declaring that no citizen can provide evidence to back such allegations. Obasanjo made this statement on Wednesday during the Democracy Dialogue organized by the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation in Accra, Ghana. The former president emphasized his stance clearly: “I think I’m not a fool. If I wanted it, some people believed I wanted it, I know the steps to take. But there is no Nigerian, whether living or dead, that can say I personally approached him or her to say I wanted a third term. None.” He further explained that if he could secure Nigeria’s debt relief during his administration—an achievement he described as far more complex than extending a presidential term—then obtaining a third term would not have been impossible if he had truly pursued it. Obasanjo noted: “I always remind them that achieving debt relief was much tougher than extending tenure. If I had wanted a third term badly, I would have gotten it.” On Leadership and Power Addiction The former president also issued a strong caution to political leaders who assume they are indispensable. He described such a mindset as “a sin against God.” According to him, effective leadership emerges from individuals who are young, vibrant, and dynamic, not from those who cling to power despite declining capacity. He stated: “The best leadership is delivered when you are young, idealistic, vibrant, and dynamic. Once you become tired and weak, you cannot give your best. Unfortunately, some believe nobody else can lead in their absence. They even claim there is no capable successor. But this is a sin against God because if God decides to take you away today, another person will surely step in—and that person may do better or worse, but leadership will continue.” Obasanjo’s remarks highlight both his rejection of the third-term narrative and his call for generational renewal in leadership, reinforcing the importance of succession planning and democratic responsibility in Nigeria and across Africa.
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With the recent announcement by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu declaring an end to the emergency rule in Rivers State, public attention has now shifted towards the demand for a thorough probe into the six-month tenure of Vice Admiral Ibok Ete Ibas (retd), who served as the Sole Administrator during this period. LMSINT MEDIA reports that following the presidential directive, Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy Dr. Ngozi Odu, and the elected members of the Rivers State House of Assembly officially resumed their respective offices on Thursday. It will be recalled that the state of emergency was initially imposed on March 18, 2025, leading to the suspension of Governor Fubara, his deputy, and all lawmakers. The drastic decision by President Tinubu was attributed to the prolonged political unrest that had destabilized peace and governance in the oil-rich state. Background of the Political Crisis in Rivers State The crisis stemmed from a bitter power struggle between Governor Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, who currently serves as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja. Their face-off created political instability, which necessitated federal intervention. During the period of emergency rule, President Tinubu successfully mediated peace talks between the two camps, paving the way for reconciliation. This truce, coupled with the successful conduct of the August 30 local government elections, allowed Tinubu to lift the emergency measures. However, while lawmakers have since reconvened, questions have been raised about the governor’s absence at the time of reporting, further fueling political speculations. Controversies Surrounding Fubara’s Suspension The declaration of a state of emergency and the suspension of a democratically elected governor sparked nationwide debates. Critics, including legal experts and political analysts, argued that Tinubu’s decision contradicted Section 305 of the 1999 Nigerian Constitution (as amended). Concerns were also raised about the Senate’s approval process. Stakeholders pointed out that the two-thirds majority vote of all 469 legislators, which is constitutionally required, was not adhered to. Instead, a voice vote was used—something the Supreme Court of Nigeria had previously ruled as unacceptable when a specific constitutional provision demands numerical voting. Adding to the controversy, leaders of the Ijaw Youth Council (Eastern Zone) took the matter to the ECOWAS Court of Justice, challenging what they described as the unlawful suspension of the Rivers governor. Despite these legal battles, both the Supreme Court and ECOWAS Court are yet to deliver their final judgments. Ibas’s Role and Public Statements During his tenure, Vice Admiral Ibas maintained that his core mandate was to restore stability in Rivers State. At a recent lecture in Port Harcourt themed “Good Governance and Democratic Dividends”, Ibas declared that the nearly two-year political turbulence had finally been brought under control. He credited the cooperation of political stakeholders and the successful execution of local government elections as proof of restored peace. The Rivers State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC), through its spokesperson Ikenga Chibike, also affirmed that peace had indeed returned, urging President Tinubu to officially end the emergency rule—a request that has now been granted. Calls for Probe of Ibas’s Administration Despite the return of stability, opposition parties including the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Labour Party (LP), and the African Democratic Congress (ADC) have intensified calls for a probe into Ibas’s six-month administration. The Chairman of the Rivers ADC, Leader Sampson, demanded transparency and accountability, stressing that Ibas must provide detailed explanations of how the state’s finances were managed. “He needs to explain how much Rivers State generated internally, the federal allocations received, and exactly how these funds were utilized,” Sampson said in an interview. He further insisted that Nigerians deserve to know the specific projects executed and their costs. Resistance Against Probing Ibas On the other hand, PDP chieftain Austin Okai suggested that Governor Fubara might lack the political will to initiate a probe. According to him, investigating Ibas would indirectly mean investigating Nyesom Wike and, by extension, the federal government itself. Okai stated: “Probing Ibas is like probing Wike, and Fubara no longer has the capacity to take such a step. It could also be seen as a direct challenge to the authority of President Tinubu.” Rivers State House of Assembly Steps In Amidst these heated debates, the Rivers State House of Assembly has officially resolved to examine the state’s financial management under Ibas’s administration. Speaker Martins Amaewhule presided over the plenary session held at the temporary legislative quarters, as the main Assembly complex remains under reconstruction. The House has also called on Governor Fubara to submit a list of commissioner nominees for screening, signaling a gradual return to full democratic governance.
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The Nigerian Federal Government has announced a new directive that would require citizens to pay five percent tax on every 10 litres of fuel purchased. While the official commencement date of this policy remains unclear, the pronouncement has ignited widespread anger and debate across the country. The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, revealed this policy in Abuja last week. He explained that the 5% surcharge is not a new levy, but rather a provision originally introduced under the Federal Road Maintenance Agency (FERMA) Act of 2007. According to Edun, its inclusion in the 2025 Nigeria Tax Administration Act is simply for “harmonisation and transparency.” He stressed: “This does not imply the introduction of a new tax. The five percent surcharge has existed since 2007. Its integration into the new law is merely for clarity. No immediate implementation order has been issued or is in preparation at the moment.” Despite this clarification, Nigerians remain unconvinced. Many citizens recall similar assurances made during the fuel subsidy removal, which skyrocketed petrol prices from ₦167 per litre to between ₦865 and ₦1,000 per litre, depending on location. For most Nigerians, this new tax proposal seems like another attempt to pile more hardship on the masses. Nigerians React With Outrage The announcement has dominated discussions across social media platforms, with citizens openly criticizing the plan. Fuel attendants also weighed in. Labour Unions, Politicians, and Groups Condemn the Move Organisations such as the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), the Trade Union Congress (TUC), and the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) have strongly opposed the policy. Notably, Peter Obi, the Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, took to his social media page to voice his concern. He lamented: “This means Nigerians will now pay a five percent tax on fuel at a time when millions cannot even afford transport. The government claimed it has already met its revenue target. Why then impose additional burdens on suffering citizens?” He further criticised the government for failing to deliver on its promise of affordable Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), which has increased from ₦230 to ₦450. According to him, subsidies on CNG quietly disappeared, leaving Nigerians stranded. Peter Obi emphasized that true leadership is about easing suffering, not compounding it. He urged the government to suspend the policy until Nigerians begin to experience real improvements in their quality of life. Conclusion The proposed 5% fuel tax has become one of the most controversial government pronouncements in recent times. Nigerians, already burdened by high living costs, view this policy as another blow to their fragile economy. With strong opposition from citizens, labour groups, and political leaders, the government may be forced to reconsider or suspend the policy. What remains clear is that trust between the people and the government continues to erode, especially when economic reforms are introduced without adequate consultation or visible benefits to the masses.
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Nigeria’s Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has announced a groundbreaking achievement by the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS). For the first time in the nation’s history spanning over six decades, the NIS has developed the capacity to deliver between 4,500 and 5,000 passports within just five hours. This revelation was made on Thursday after the Minister conducted an inspection of the newly constructed Centralised Passport Personalisation Centre located at the NIS Headquarters in Abuja. According to Tunji-Ojo, this milestone marks a huge leap in efficiency compared to the old system, where the agency could only personalise 250 to 300 passports in an entire day. With the cutting-edge infrastructure now in place, the NIS can handle over 1,000 passports every single hour, a record-breaking upgrade for the country’s immigration service. “Earlier today, alongside the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, and the Comptroller General of NIS, Kemi Nanna Nandap, I visited the new Centralised Passport Personalisation Centre at the Service’s headquarters. With this modernised investment, which came at no additional cost to the government, NIS can now deliver results faster than ever before,” Tunji-Ojo explained. The Minister further emphasised that this centralised system has officially ended the era of producing Nigerian passports at multiple centres across the globe, which often caused delays, inconsistencies, and inefficiencies. He described the development as a landmark achievement in the 62-year history of the Immigration Service, stressing that the new structure reflects the government’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and efficiency in public service delivery. With this advancement, Nigerians at home and abroad are expected to benefit from faster passport processing, reduced backlogs, and more reliable service delivery. This move is also in line with global best practices, ensuring Nigeria is taking significant steps toward aligning its immigration processes with modern technology. For more context, efficiency in passport production plays a crucial role in national security, diaspora engagement, and international travel credibility, as highlighted by global institutions like the International Organization for Migration (IOM).
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The National Coordinator of the South-South Elders Forum, Anabs Sara-Igbe, has expressed that the people of Rivers State are filled with excitement following the return of Governor Siminalayi Fubara. Speaking during an interview on Prime Time, a program aired on Arise Television, Sara-Igbe explained that the entire state had been on hold during the governor’s absence. According to him, Governor Fubara is widely known as “Mr. Project” because of the numerous developmental projects he initiated across all 23 local government areas of Rivers State. Unfortunately, these projects were halted for about six months, leaving the people in a state of uncertainty. LMSINT MEDIA recalls that in March, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu suspended Governor Fubara, his deputy, and the state lawmakers, while also declaring a state of emergency in Rivers State. This political decision created months of inactivity and uncertainty. Fortunately, the emergency rule was lifted on Wednesday, leading to the reinstatement of Governor Fubara. While reacting to this development, Sara-Igbe noted: “You can see the joy on the faces of Rivers people as they welcome their governor back. Since he was suspended, the state has experienced a complete standstill. If we are talking about ‘Mr. Project,’ Sim Fubara represents that title. Every local government in Rivers State had ongoing projects under his administration, but they were all stopped for the past six months. We don’t even know what the Sole Administrator, Ibok Ekwe Ibas, did with the state’s resources during this period.” The return of Governor Fubara is seen as a beacon of hope for Rivers State citizens who are eager for the continuation of development projects and a return to stable governance.
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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is set to embark on an official visit to Kaduna State, where he will combine political courtesy with social engagement. According to his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the president will depart Abuja for Kaduna to participate in the wedding ceremony of Nasirudeen Yari, the son of Senator Abdul’aziz Yari, who represents Zamfara West Senatorial District. The marriage ceremony between Nasirudeen Yari and Safiyya Shehu Idris is expected to draw prominent political leaders and dignitaries from across the country. Tinubu’s presence at the occasion underscores his close relationship with influential stakeholders within the All Progressives Congress (APC) and beyond. In addition to attending the wedding, the president will pay a special courtesy visit to Aisha Buhari, widow of Nigeria’s former president, the late Muhammadu Buhari. The visit is scheduled to take place at the Buhari family residence in Kaduna, highlighting Tinubu’s gesture of respect to the family of his predecessor. Bayo Onanuga emphasized that the president will return to Abuja shortly after completing his engagements in Kaduna. This visit holds both political and social significance, strengthening Tinubu’s ties with key figures and maintaining cordial relationships within the northern political structure.
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The decision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to reinstate Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has sparked heated reactions from political leaders, human rights activists, and legal practitioners across Nigeria. On March 18, 2025, President Tinubu imposed a state of emergency in Rivers State, suspending Governor Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Nma Odu, and all members of the Rivers State House of Assembly. During this period, Tinubu appointed retired military officer Ibok Ibas as the sole administrator of the state. However, in a national broadcast on September 17, 2025, Tinubu lifted the emergency and reinstated all suspended officials. He declared: “It therefore gives me great pleasure to declare that the emergency in Rivers State of Nigeria shall end with effect from midnight today. Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Nma Odu, and Speaker Martins Amaewhule with other Assembly members will resume work in their respective offices from September 18, 2025.” This reinstatement has drawn mixed reactions from stakeholders across the country. Wike Praises Tinubu’s Move as a Commitment to Democracy The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, lauded President Tinubu for restoring democratic governance in Rivers State. According to Wike, the president’s intervention reflects his dedication to peace, stability, and democratic values. Through his aide, Lere Olayinka, Wike noted that Tinubu’s decision restored the confidence of Rivers people in his leadership. He urged political stakeholders to work together for the collective progress of the state, cautioning fifth columnists and political opportunists against destabilizing the peace. “From Rivers State going forward, the only news that will emanate will be that of peace, progress, and development,” Wike assured. Atiku’s Camp Condemns Tinubu: “This is an Assault on Democracy” Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, through his media aide Paul Ibe, strongly criticized Tinubu’s suspension of Fubara, describing it as illegal and unconstitutional. Ibe argued that the president lacked the authority to suspend a democratically elected governor, adding that the action was part of a larger plot to weaken the opposition and force political alignment with the All Progressives Congress (APC). “The president does not have that power and should not have arrogated it to himself. What he did was unconstitutional, and reinstating the governor does not change the illegality,” Ibe stated. He further alleged that Tinubu’s administration is systematically shrinking Nigeria’s democratic space, using state institutions to suppress dissent. Human Rights Lawyer: “Fubara Has Been Neutralized” Legal activist Maduabuchi Idam described the suspension and reinstatement of Fubara as a calculated political move to weaken the Rivers governor. According to Idam, Tinubu’s decision exposed dictatorial tendencies, as the president failed to address the real reasons behind the declaration of the emergency rule. “Fubara has been decimated and neutralized. He is now a puppet of the powers that control him. A local government chairman may even wield more influence,” Idam argued. The lawyer added that Fubara should have rejected his reinstatement to preserve his integrity and uphold democratic principles. Adeyanju: “Tinubu Has Dragged Nigeria Back to the Military Era” Prominent activist Deji Adeyanju also condemned Tinubu’s suspension of Fubara, calling it a dangerous precedent that undermines democracy. Adeyanju argued that Tinubu, once a leading voice against military dictatorship, has ironically adopted the same authoritarian style he fought against. “This is a sad throwback to military rule. The judiciary and opposition parties failed Nigerians by allowing this illegality to stand,” he lamented. Adeyanju also criticized the judiciary for failing to act decisively, insisting that the courts should have nullified the suspension immediately to protect Nigeria’s democracy. CUPP Welcomes Reinstatement but Condemns Emergency Rule The Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) welcomed the end of the emergency but described its declaration as an unconstitutional overreach. CUPP maintained that suspending an elected governor, deputy governor, and state assembly members over political disagreements was a direct assault on democracy. According to the group, democracy can only thrive when the will of the people and the independence of institutions are respected. Conclusion The reinstatement of Governor Sim Fubara has further exposed the deep political divides within Nigeria. While some see Tinubu’s decision as a step toward peace, others describe it as evidence of authoritarian governance. The controversy surrounding Rivers State is a reminder of the fragile state of Nigeria’s democracy and the urgent need for stronger institutions to protect the people’s mandate.
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The demolition exercise carried out by the Adamawa State Government at the Jimeta Ultra-Modern Market in Yola has sparked widespread tension and mixed reactions among traders and residents of the area. The action, which commenced on Tuesday, was a direct implementation of Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri’s directive. The directive, contained in an official letter dated September 12, 2025, was issued by the Adamawa State Urban and Regional Planning Development Authority (ASUPDA). Authorities explained that several traders had erected unauthorized “temporary shops” within the market, blocking access roads, creating congestion, and distorting the approved master plan of the ultra-modern market. During the demolition, many traders and customers were seen expressing visible distress. While some residents commended the initiative, others condemned it, leaving opinions sharply divided. Traders Decry Harsh Impact Some traders such as Abubakar Sa’ad and Salomi Charles strongly criticized the government’s action. According to them, the demolition was carried out without granting them sufficient time to secure alternative spaces for their businesses. They stressed that the move came at a period when most Nigerians are already struggling with the economic downturn. They described the government’s decision as “harsh and inconsiderate” and appealed for intervention, urging the administration to provide alternative trading spaces for displaced shop owners. Government Defends the Action Meanwhile, the Commissioner for Commerce, Trade and Industry, Dr. Ishaya John Dabari, defended the demolition exercise. He explained that the enforcement was necessary to restore the market’s original structural design and ensure sanity within the commercial hub. Dabari emphasized that only traders who illegally constructed shops outside the master plan were affected. He added that no form of compensation was offered, as the shops were erected illegally. However, he admitted that both the government and traders had suffered short-term revenue losses due to the operation. “Although there is an immediate loss of revenue for both parties, the demolition exercise will help restore order and ultimately boost sustainable revenue generation in the long run,” Dabari stated. Over 2,000 Shops Demolished Also weighing in, the Chairman of the Restoration Committee and Director of the State Urban and Regional Planning Board, T.P. John Zutuwa, disclosed that more than 2,000 illegal shops and structures had already been demolished at the market, with additional structures yet to be removed. He firmly stressed that: “All developments not in line with the approved master plan must go.” The development continues to generate heated debates in Yola, with displaced traders demanding urgent intervention, while the government insists that the exercise is critical to bringing back order and ensuring the structural integrity of the Jimeta Ultra-Modern Market.
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A coalition of civil rights advocates and legal professionals on Wednesday took their protest to the headquarters of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Abuja over the controversial $4 billion refinery rehabilitation scandal linked to the former Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kyari. The demonstrators, operating under the platform of the Concerned Lawyers and Citizens Network (CLCN), openly accused the anti-graft commission of orchestrating a cover-up. They condemned the alleged diversion of $4 billion meant for refinery rehabilitation, describing it as an act of “economic treason” that sabotages Nigeria’s national growth and long-term development. Speaking on behalf of the protesters, Barrister Theophilus Ojonugwa stressed that what transpired was far beyond a financial crime. According to him, it represents “a direct assault on human dignity and a deliberate setback to the nation’s progress.” He emphasized that the scandal has forced Nigeria to remain heavily dependent on imported petroleum products, worsening the burden on ordinary citizens. The activists highlighted that the alleged misused funds could have transformed critical sectors such as education, healthcare, and employment generation. They linked the missing billions to unconstructed schools, unequipped hospitals, and countless job opportunities denied to Nigerian youths. To them, the scandal represents a betrayal of intergenerational trust and a deliberate obstruction of Nigeria’s future. In a strongly worded statement, the CLCN criticized the EFCC for what it called a “romance with corruption” and selective justice. They noted that while young Nigerians face severe punishments for minor infractions, high-profile corruption cases are often handled with leniency. “Justice must remain blind and uncompromising,” Ojonugwa declared. “If the $4 billion refinery rehabilitation scandal is treated with kid gloves, Nigeria will be further seen as a haven for looters and economic saboteurs.” The group demanded the immediate arrest and prosecution of those implicated in the scandal. They also called for the confiscation of all properties and assets connected to the misappropriated funds. In their view, only bold and transparent actions can restore confidence in Nigeria’s anti-corruption system. Furthermore, the Concerned Lawyers and Citizens Network urged the EFCC to commission an independent forensic audit to be carried out by internationally recognized firms. This, they believe, is the only way to guarantee transparency and credibility in unraveling the scandal. Turning to President Bola Tinubu, the group reminded him of his anti-corruption campaign promises. They challenged him to make this scandal a defining “watershed moment” in Nigeria’s war against impunity and graft. “If this $4 billion had been used as intended, Nigeria would not still be grappling with refining shortfalls today,” Ojonugwa lamented. “The tragedy lies not only in the looted funds but also in the continued cycle of energy poverty.” The lawyers and civil rights campaigners insisted that Nigerians are closely monitoring the EFCC’s response. They warned that the public will hold the anti-graft agency accountable for either taking decisive action or enabling impunity to thrive. “The future of Nigeria depends on the courage of its people,” Ojonugwa concluded, urging citizens to remain steadfast, reject silence, and continue demanding justice until transparency and accountability are upheld.
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A Nigerian civil society group, Concerned Citizens of Nigeria (CCN), has raised strong objections against Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, by petitioning the United States (US) and the United Kingdom (UK) governments to impose a travel ban on him. The organisation accused the governor of failing to end terrorism and persistent banditry in Zamfara, despite openly admitting he possesses credible intelligence on the activities and hideouts of armed groups in the state. CCN’s Petition Against Governor Dauda Lawal The petition, signed on September 16, 2025, by Dr. Emmanuel Agabi, Executive Secretary of CCN, alleged that the governor’s refusal to take decisive action has worsened insecurity, leaving innocent civilians at the mercy of violent attacks. According to the group, the failure of Governor Lawal to act demonstrates incompetence and incapacity to lead. They insisted that if he cannot address the ongoing bloodshed, he should resign from office immediately. Call for Travel Ban and Asset Freeze In its petition, CCN went further by demanding that all assets linked to the Zamfara governor in the United States and United Kingdom be frozen. The organisation stressed that effective sanctions would hold Governor Lawal accountable and send a clear message to leaders across the globe who condone or collaborate with terrorists. The petition partly read: “If Governor Dauda Lawal has an iota of shame and truly feels powerless, then honor should compel him to step down. What relevance does a leader hold when his legacy is built on incompetence?” The group also reminded the US that it has previously sanctioned leaders from Asia, Africa, and Latin America for similar complicity with terrorism, and failure to act on Lawal would devalue the lives of Nigerian citizens. Extension of Sanctions Beyond the US and UK CCN further urged the European Union and the Commonwealth to impose corresponding sanctions. They argued that democratic nations must not provide safe havens for leaders suspected of enabling terrorists or failing to combat insecurity. According to the group, the requested sanctions do not violate Nigeria’s sovereignty but rather reflect the sovereign rights of other nations to determine who is welcome within their borders. Allegations of Complicity in Terrorism The petition alleged that Governor Lawal’s own statements incriminate him. CCN stressed that his acknowledgment of knowing the locations, families, and leaders of terrorists, yet choosing inaction, amounts to confession of complicity. “Your Excellency, this case is not fabricated. It is Governor Dauda Lawal’s own testimony against himself. He admitted to knowing the bandits and their whereabouts, yet refused to act while lives continue to be lost. This is complicity and an admission of guilt.” Call to Action from the International Community The group urged the US government and its allies to treat the matter as urgent, stressing that silence would embolden other leaders to manipulate terrorism as a political tool. The petition concluded by appealing for justice on behalf of widows, orphans, and displaced persons across Zamfara, insisting that Governor Lawal should be declared persona non grata: “For the widows of Zamfara, the orphans in refugee camps, and the moral integrity of democracy, we urge you to act. Let Dauda Lawal be declared unwelcome in the free world. His name should serve as a deterrent to any leader seeking to use terrorism for personal or political gain.”
