The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has issued a strong warning to contractors handling the Eleme–Onne section of the East-West Road in Rivers State, insisting that the project must be completed before December 15, 2025, or they will face strict sanctions from the federal government. Umahi expressed disappointment at the slow progress of work on this critical infrastructure project during his recent inspection visit to the construction site. He made it clear that the federal government would not entertain any form of excuses or delays. According to him, the contractors’ performance was far below expectation, and the excuses given, particularly about rainfall disrupting progress, were unacceptable. He stressed that several aspects of the project could still be executed during the rainy season. “The pace of the work is totally not acceptable. And let me make it very, very clear to the contractor: this project can never be reviewed by a Kobo, neither can there be any POP—variation of price—or any other claims on the project,” Umahi declared. He further explained that areas of structural failure had already been observed, particularly on the Port Harcourt-bound carriageway, which raises concerns about quality control and durability. The Works Minister emphasized that the December 15 deadline remains final, and the federal government has no intention of extending the timeline. He therefore instructed the Federal Controller in charge of the zone to issue yet another official warning letter to the contractor. This move underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring accountability in road construction projects, especially those of economic significance such as the Eleme–Onne corridor, which serves as a gateway for oil and gas operations, industrial hubs, and major commercial activities in Rivers State and the Niger Delta region. The Eleme–Onne section of the East-West Road has long been a source of public concern due to its deplorable state, which has not only hindered transportation but also negatively impacted businesses and local communities. Stakeholders, including motorists and traders, have consistently appealed for speedy completion of the road to boost economic activities and ease movement in the region. Umahi’s firm stance reflects the federal government’s new policy direction of zero tolerance for project delays and its determination to prioritize timely delivery of infrastructure. Contractors are now under pressure to accelerate work and meet the December 15 deadline or risk sanctions that may include blacklisting or contract termination.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has once again voiced concerns over its inability to take firm action against political parties, aspirants, and their supporters who launch campaigns before the legally approved period. Professor Mahmood Yakubu, Chairman of INEC, expressed this concern during a roundtable discussion hosted by the Commission under the theme “Challenges of Premature Political Campaigns.” According to Yakubu, although the Electoral Act 2022 clearly sets fines of up to ₦500,000 for campaigns carried out within 24 hours of an election, there is currently no penalty for campaigns that begin before the 150-day window mandated by law. He highlighted that Section 94(1) of the Act specifically prohibits political campaigns earlier than 150 days before polling day and requires them to stop 24 hours before election day. The purpose of this provision, he explained, is to ensure governance is prioritized over continuous electioneering. Despite these legal frameworks, the INEC chairman lamented that candidates and political parties remain in constant campaign mode, often long before the Commission officially releases an election timetable. “Across the country, we see billboards, outdoor adverts, rallies, and media promotions from aspirants and political groups,” Yakubu explained. “Such premature activities undermine our ability to effectively monitor campaign finance, as huge sums are spent outside the official campaign window.” He further stressed that Nigerians expect INEC, as both the regulator and registrar of political parties, to step in and address the persistent violations of early campaigning laws. However, the Commission’s biggest obstacle lies within the law itself. Yakubu pointed to Section 94(2) of the Electoral Act 2022, which only allows for mild sanctions — a fine of not more than ₦500,000 — for campaigns conducted 24 hours before polling day. Unfortunately, no legal penalties exist for campaigns that occur earlier than 150 days to an election. “This legal gap remains a major challenge for the Commission in curbing premature campaigns by political parties, aspirants, and their loyalists,” he noted. The INEC chairman emphasized that this issue is not entirely new, as past electoral cycles have also faced similar challenges. The Commission’s limited authority and the weakness of existing legal frameworks have made it difficult to enforce discipline. This, he said, calls for collective reflection and reform. It was on this basis that INEC convened the roundtable, bringing together legislators, political party leaders, civil society representatives, practitioners, and regulatory agencies to deliberate on possible solutions. Yakubu also confirmed that since the National Assembly is currently reviewing Nigeria’s electoral laws, INEC has extended invitations to the leadership of both the Senate and House Committees on Electoral Matters. He expressed confidence that lawmakers, alongside contributions from experts, political party leaders, the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), the Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria (BON), the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), and the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON), will provide actionable reforms. Concluding his remarks, the INEC chairman reiterated that safeguarding Nigeria’s electoral integrity and strengthening democracy is not the job of INEC alone but a responsibility that requires input from multiple stakeholders
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The Director of the Abuja School of Social and Political Thought, Dr. Sam Amadi, has strongly condemned the Nigerian Senate for preventing Kogi Central Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan from resuming her seat in the Red Chamber. Amadi expressed his disapproval during a live interview on Arise Television on Wednesday, where he described the Senate’s decision as an outright abuse of senatorial privileges and a breach of democratic processes. According to him, the Clerk of the National Assembly is an administrative officer and not a lawmaker, hence lacking the constitutional authority to prolong the suspension of any senator. He emphasized that such an action undermines both parliamentary order and democratic norms. Amadi noted with concern that while members of the National Assembly create rules to guide parliamentary procedures, they often disregard the same regulations when it suits their interest. He further explained: “This action represents an overreach and a clear abuse of the privileges belonging to senators themselves. The National Assembly indeed has the constitutional power to suspend one of its members, but such a suspension must be carried out strictly within the lawful proceedings of the House. Anything beyond that amounts to illegality.” Dr. Amadi highlighted that it is fundamentally wrong for the parliament to halt or delay its internal processes while awaiting judicial rulings. He argued that the legislature has immunity, independence, and the right to self-govern without judicial interference unless in cases of constitutional violations. He stressed: “The judiciary does not have the authority to obstruct parliamentary functions. The Nigerian parliament has autonomy over its activities, and judicial interventions should not interfere with legislative proceedings.” This development continues to raise concerns about the balance of power, accountability, and respect for parliamentary privileges in Nigeria’s democracy. Many analysts view the case of Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan as a test of whether the Nigerian Senate is committed to fairness, transparency, and democratic integrity
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Tonye Cole, a former governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State, has voiced his dissatisfaction with the recently concluded Local Government elections in the state, noting that the process could have been conducted in a better and more transparent manner. Cole made his remarks on Tuesday during an interview on Prime Time, a flagship programme aired on Arise Television. While addressing the outcome of the polls, he admitted that though he did not approve of how the elections were carried out, the state must now look forward and focus on future political engagements. According to him, democracy thrives on respect for laws, fairness, and the participation of the people. He warned that disregarding citizens’ voices and bending democratic rules to suit personal interests is a dangerous precedent that could harm governance in the long run. In his words: “One of the critical things we must be careful about is that democracy is a continuous process. If we begin to disregard how the people feel, neglect the rules that guide democracy, and instead create our own, it sets a dangerous trend.” The APC chieftain further emphasized that the local government elections could have been managed differently with a more holistic approach. He stressed the importance of engaging citizens in the process and ensuring they understand that elections directly impact their overall well-being. “I’ve already spoken about the local government elections. I feel that they could have been conducted differently. It could have been done better, with broader inclusiveness and citizen engagement. That would have reinforced trust in the process and improved the credibility of governance at the grassroots level,” he explained. Despite his reservations, Cole acknowledged the reality of the concluded exercise, urging everyone to move forward while preparing for the next electoral challenge. “I don’t agree with the way the elections were conducted, but it has already been concluded. At this point, all we can do is focus on what lies ahead and ensure the next elections are more credible and fair,” he concluded. His statement adds to the growing conversations around the conduct of elections in Nigeria, especially at the grassroots level, where transparency and citizen participation remain key to strengthening democratic institutions.
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Tonye Cole, former All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in Rivers State, has firmly stated that he will not be joining former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, in the African Democratic Congress (ADC). Cole, who has previously contested for the governorship twice without success, reaffirmed his determination to run again for the highest political office in Rivers come 2027. Speaking during an interview on Prime Time, a political affairs program on Arise Television, he emphasized his unwavering ambition to serve as the governor of Rivers State. The business magnate turned politician explained that after two unsuccessful bids in 2019 and 2023, his upcoming attempt is framed as a decisive third opportunity to achieve his long-standing goal. He stressed that despite past setbacks, his political journey is built on resilience, focus, and the conviction to finally secure the governorship position. LMSINT MEDIA recalls that Cole’s initial attempt in 2019 was marred by legal battles that prevented the APC from fielding candidates, while his 2023 effort did not secure him victory. Nevertheless, he continues to project optimism about his political future. When asked about his relationship with Rotimi Amaechi, Cole acknowledged the crucial role the former Rivers governor played in introducing him into mainstream politics. He expressed respect and admiration for Amaechi’s political journey, particularly his presidential ambition, but maintained that his own political focus remains on Rivers State. In clear terms, Tonye Cole noted that his loyalty to the APC remains intact and that he has no plans to cross over to the ADC or any other political party. He stated: “Nobody can deny that Amaechi brought me into politics. I have always respected leaders like him and others who contributed to my growth. However, Amaechi has his own ambition, and I have mine. While he charts his path, I remain committed to achieving my goals in Rivers.” With this declaration, Tonye Cole has made it evident that he intends to remain a key political figure in Rivers State under the APC banner while positioning himself strategically for the 2027 elections.
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The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has issued a strong reaction to recent comments made by Senator Aminu Tambuwal of Sokoto South. In his response, Wike made it clear that he will not ignore the disparaging remarks directed at him and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during Tambuwal’s interview. According to Wike, Tambuwal’s statements will not be left unanswered. He emphasized that he intends to give Nigerians clarity about the true meaning of betrayal and integrity, and assured the public that his official response will come at the appropriate time. Tambuwal, a former governor of Sokoto State and current Senator, had stirred controversy on Friday after declaring in an interview that he would choose former Vice President Atiku Abubakar over Tinubu to lead Nigeria in 2027. He further added that his preference would also be Atiku ahead of Wike when considering leadership choices for the future. Reacting to these remarks, Wike, through a statement released by his media aide, Lere Olayinka, said he had been overwhelmed by calls from journalists requesting his reaction. The statement stressed that beyond the criticism directed at him, Tambuwal also cast a shadow on President Tinubu’s leadership, a move Wike described as unacceptable. Part of the statement reads: “I have been inundated with calls, particularly from journalists, who wanted to know the Minister’s position on Tambuwal’s remarks. Apart from the attacks directed at the Minister, Tambuwal also attempted to discredit President Tinubu. Such an action cannot go without a response. Therefore, Nigerians should be assured that the Minister will react in full. At the right time, he will explain to the nation what betrayal truly represents and the essence of integrity in leadership. Until then, let us remain patient and keep our fingers crossed.” This development adds another layer to the already tense political atmosphere as the 2027 elections slowly build momentum. Political observers are closely watching how this exchange between Wike and Tambuwal could reshape alliances within the ruling and opposition camps. For now, Wike has kept Nigerians waiting, promising a comprehensive response that may expose deeper issues of loyalty and trust within the country’s political circle.
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Human rights advocate, Inibehe Effiong, has officially petitioned Meta Platforms Inc., cautioning the tech giant against granting a controversial request from Nigeria’s Department of State Services (DSS). The DSS had demanded the deactivation of activist Omoyele Sowore’s Facebook account, a move Effiong described as unlawful, unconstitutional, and a blatant assault on the right to free speech in Nigeria. In the letter addressed to Meta on Monday, Effiong strongly argued that the DSS request amounts to censorship, stressing that it undermines democratic values and freedom of expression. He further highlighted that the DSS petition to both Meta and X (formerly Twitter) to deactivate Sowore’s social media accounts was based on irrelevant legal references and lacked any genuine foundation. According to the DSS, Sowore was accused of sharing ‘unsavoury’ content that allegedly maligned the character of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. However, Effiong countered this claim, emphasizing that Sowore’s publications in no way violated Meta’s Community Standards. “We urge Meta to recognize the DSS demand for what it truly represents: a calculated attempt to shield the Nigerian President from criticism, legally baseless maneuvers aimed at undermining democracy, and a dangerous step toward authoritarian rule,” Effiong stated. The lawyer insisted that the DSS appeared to be holding brief unlawfully for the Nigerian President, noting that Tinubu himself has not filed any personal lawsuit against Sowore. Effiong stressed that if the President feels wronged by any publication, the appropriate step is to approach the courts rather than deploy state security agencies to harass or silence dissenting citizens. Effiong further appealed to Meta not to bow to what he described as a deliberate ploy to suppress dissenting voices in Nigeria. He warned that granting the DSS demand would create a disturbing precedent, paving the way for more government-driven clampdowns on civil liberties, digital freedom, and freedom of speech in the country. This petition has intensified public debate about government interference in media spaces, censorship of opposition voices, and the rising concerns about Nigeria’s democratic future.
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Former Senator representing Kogi West, Dino Melaye, has strongly criticized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over what he described as an alarming rate of borrowing by the current administration. According to Melaye, if the present borrowing trend continues unchecked, Tinubu may soon have no choice but to seek financial assistance from Nigeria’s top fintech platforms such as Opay and Moniepoint. His reaction came after the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, openly expressed worry about the mounting foreign debts being accumulated under Tinubu’s government. Melaye’s remarks on Arise Television Speaking during an interview on Arise Television’s Prime Time program on Monday night, Melaye questioned: “Why is the president borrowing $1.7 billion from the World Bank? Why has the Senate already approved $21 billion with several other loans awaiting approval?” The former lawmaker condemned the borrowing spree, labeling Tinubu’s administration as one of the most reckless governments in Nigeria’s history. Luxury acquisitions despite economic hardship Melaye further criticized Tinubu for making lavish purchases while Nigerians are facing economic challenges. He highlighted that the president, who had earlier promised to eliminate government waste, purchased a yacht that has never been seen in Nigeria’s territorial waters but instead is reportedly stationed between Monaco and Paris. He questioned the rationale behind such extravagant spending during a period of widespread hunger and hardship. Melaye also pointed out that Tinubu acquired a new presidential jet, costing the nation billions of naira, only a few months after assuming office. Dispute over “gift” claims Addressing claims that the new presidential aircraft was a gift, Melaye dismissed such arguments. He maintained that the purchase was never appropriated by the National Assembly, which is why it was conveniently labeled a “gift.” He said: “If it was truly a gift, then who gave it? Gifts must be declared. Remember Tom David West was removed from office for failing to declare a gold wristwatch. If you receive a gift, you must declare the source.” A history of modest official vehicles Melaye compared Tinubu’s spending habits to previous Nigerian leaders. He recalled that since the era of Tafawa Balewa, Nnamdi Azikiwe, and even Muhammadu Buhari, every president or prime minister used the Mercedes Benz S-Class as the official car. He criticized Tinubu’s choice of a luxury German-made Mercedes Benz, the same model once used by Donald Trump in the United States, arguing that it contradicts his promise of curbing wastage. National Assembly budget hike Melaye also exposed how the National Assembly’s budget was increased significantly under Tinubu’s leadership. He revealed that during the 8th Senate, the budget stood at ₦150 billion, but today it has risen to over ₦300 billion, making the legislature appear more like a department directly controlled by the presidency. Borrowing without accountability According to Melaye, these lavish expenses and increased borrowing contradict Tinubu’s campaign message of “renewed hope.” He questioned why the government continues to borrow heavily even while generating more revenue. He noted that even the Speaker of the House of Representatives, who belongs to the ruling APC, has raised concerns about this pattern of reckless borrowing. Melaye concluded with a scathing remark: “We will not be surprised if President Tinubu soon turns to fintech companies like Opay and Moniepoint for loans.”
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The Nigerian Presidency has confirmed the immediate termination of Fegho John Umunubo, who previously served as the Special Assistant to the President on Digital and Creative Economy under the Office of the Vice President. The official announcement came on Monday through a press statement signed by Abiodun Oladunjoye, the Director of Information and Public Relations at the Presidency. In the statement, the Presidency emphasized that Fegho Umunubo no longer holds any official role within the current administration, urging stakeholders and industry partners to take note. The release further stated: “All stakeholders and partners in the digital and creative economy should note that Mr. Umunubo has been relieved of his position with immediate effect.” Additionally, the Presidency issued a clear warning, stressing that any individual or organization conducting business with Mr. Umunubo under the impression that he still represents the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu does so at their own personal risk. This move highlights the Presidency’s stance on maintaining accountability and transparency in matters concerning the digital economy and creative sector.
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Former Vice President of Nigeria, Atiku Abubakar, on Monday paid a solidarity visit to former Sokoto State governor, Senator Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, at his Abuja residence. According to LMSINT MEDIA, the visit came shortly after Tambuwal regained his freedom from the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), where he had been held over allegations linked to financial misconduct during his administration in Sokoto State. Tambuwal, who is a prominent figure in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and also a former Speaker of the House of Representatives, faced intense scrutiny during his detention. The EFCC interrogated him over alleged irregularities in the management of state resources, sparking heated debate across Nigeria’s political landscape. The arrest stirred nationwide reactions, especially among opposition voices. Members of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and other political actors argued that the action appeared politically orchestrated, given Tambuwal’s relevance in Nigeria’s opposition politics and his loyalty to the PDP. Many described the EFCC’s move as a tactic aimed at weakening opposition strongholds. Atiku, however, showed public support for his political ally. In a post shared via his verified X (formerly Twitter) account, the former Vice President expressed deep satisfaction at Tambuwal’s resilience. His statement read: “I visited Senator Aminu Waziri Tambuwal at his residence in Abuja earlier today. I am happy seeing him in good, unbroken, and unwavering spirit.” This show of solidarity has been interpreted as both a personal reassurance and a strategic political move, considering Atiku’s position as a leading figure within the PDP. His visit reaffirms internal unity among party leaders amid mounting political battles in Nigeria. The resilience of Tambuwal, described as “unbroken” by Atiku, has been praised by party loyalists and political observers. His ability to maintain composure during EFCC’s interrogation is seen as a demonstration of courage and determination, qualities that continue to define his political journey. This episode adds to the ongoing debate over the impartiality of anti-graft agencies in Nigeria. While the EFCC is constitutionally mandated to fight corruption, critics argue that its actions often appear politically selective, especially when opposition figures are involved. According to a report by Transparency International, Nigeria continues to struggle with perceptions of political bias in anti-corruption enforcement. As political activities heighten ahead of future elections, Tambuwal’s ordeal and Atiku’s public show of support highlight the strong undercurrents shaping Nigeria’s political terrain.
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The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, has raised serious concerns about Nigeria’s escalating debt crisis, stressing that the nation’s rising debt profile has now exceeded the legal borrowing threshold and poses a severe risk to fiscal sustainability. Speaking in Abuja on Monday during the opening session of the 11th Annual Conference and General Assembly of the West Africa Association of Public Accounts Committees (WAAPAC), Abbas highlighted the need for urgent intervention to prevent further economic strain. According to him, Nigeria’s total public debt skyrocketed to N149.39 trillion (approximately US$97 billion) in the first quarter of 2025, compared to N121.7 trillion recorded in the previous year. This represents a sharp and worrying increase that reflects how fast the country’s financial burden is mounting. Even more alarming is Nigeria’s debt-to-GDP ratio, which climbed to 52 percent in early 2025, far above the statutory ceiling of 40 percent as enshrined in law. Abbas emphasized that this breach signals growing instability in the nation’s finances and threatens sustainable economic growth. “By the first quarter of 2025, Nigeria’s total public debt had surged to N149.39 trillion, which is equivalent to US$97 billion. This rapid increase from N121.7 trillion in the previous year demonstrates how heavy the financial strain has become. The debt-to-GDP ratio now stands at 52 percent, far beyond the 40 percent limit set by law,” Abbas stated. The Speaker insisted that Nigeria must strengthen oversight, transparency, and accountability in borrowing practices, stressing that loans should only be obtained for projects that provide direct economic and social benefits. He warned that reckless borrowing driven by consumption, corruption, or mismanagement will deepen poverty and undermine development. Abbas pointed out that many African countries already spend more on debt servicing than on healthcare, education, and other essential services. He urged Nigeria to avoid falling into the same cycle, where debt repayments crowd out investments in critical sectors. New Debt Oversight Framework To address this mounting challenge, Abbas unveiled plans to establish a West African Parliamentary Debt Oversight Framework under WAAPAC. This initiative aims to: Additionally, he disclosed plans for a regional capacity-building programme designed to improve debt sustainability analysis and fiscal risk assessment across West Africa. Borrowing for Development, Not Consumption Abbas stressed that loans must be directed toward productive sectors such as infrastructure, healthcare, education, and industries that create jobs and reduce poverty. According to him, debt used to fund consumption or lost to corruption cannot be justified. He further assured Nigerians that the 10th House of Representatives is committed to ensuring transparency through its Open Parliament policy, under which all major borrowing proposals will undergo public hearings. Simplified debt reports will also be made available to the public to promote accountability and citizen participation in monitoring financial decisions.
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The Department of State Services (DSS) has reportedly issued a one-week deadline to Nigerian activist and publisher, Omoyele Sowore, demanding that he delete what the security agency described as a “false, malicious, and inciting” social media post targeted at President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. According to a formal letter from the DSS dated September 7, Sowore is accused of making criminal and derogatory remarks against the President in a post shared on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter) on August 26. The security agency stressed that failure to remove the controversial post within the given timeframe would leave it with no option but to take all lawful actions necessary to safeguard national security and preserve public order across Nigeria. LMSINT MEDIA recalls that Sowore, who is widely known as the former presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC) and a long-time pro-democracy campaigner, had openly described President Tinubu as a “criminal” in his online statement. The activist and publisher of Sahara Reporters also accused the Nigerian leader of deceiving the public, claiming that Tinubu’s statement about the absence of corruption under his administration was untrue. Reacting officially, the DSS through its Director of Legal Services, Uwem Davies, strongly condemned the remarks, insisting that Sowore’s words had generated public outrage and carried the potential to trigger disunity, unrest, and even a nationwide insurrection if left unchecked. This development adds to the ongoing tension between the Nigerian government and opposition voices who consistently challenge the administration’s credibility and policies.
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The 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has once again raised serious concerns about the deteriorating state of security across Nigeria. In a statement posted on his official X (formerly Twitter) handle on Sunday, Obi declared that “Nigeria is bleeding” and urgently called on the Federal Government to declare a state of emergency on insecurity. This appeal comes after a bloody weekend of tragic killings. Reports confirmed that eight officers of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC) were brutally murdered in Edo State. Similarly, in Borno State, five Nigerian soldiers and at least 58 innocent civilians were killed, leaving the nation in mourning. The former Governor of Anambra State described these incidents as undeniable proof that the country is trapped in a full-scale security crisis. He emphasized that such relentless killings cannot continue without strong and immediate government intervention. While expressing heartfelt condolences to the families of those who lost their lives, Obi urged the Federal Government to take swift action by arresting the perpetrators and ensuring that justice is served without delay. Obi’s post highlighted the scale of the crisis: “When over 100 Nigerians are killed in a single weekend, our casualty figures rival those of countries officially at war. This is no longer business as usual.” He went further to stress that the government must declare a national war against insecurity. According to him, the solution lies in mobilizing all national resources, agencies, and states while putting aside political distractions to rescue Nigeria from lawlessness and violence. The call by Peter Obi echoes the cries of many Nigerians who believe that insecurity—ranging from banditry to terrorism, kidnappings, and violent attacks—has reached unprecedented levels.
