The National Assembly Complex in Abuja is currently under heightened security surveillance amid growing tension following reports that Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who was suspended, plans to return to the legislative chamber today, Tuesday. According to a report from LMSINT MEDIA, Senator Natasha publicly declared on Saturday her firm intention to resume official legislative duties on Tuesday, July 22. She referenced a ruling delivered by Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court in Abuja as the legal foundation for her planned return to plenary. Despite her assertion, the leadership of the Senate, through the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Senator Yemi Adaramodu, issued a rebuttal on Sunday. In his statement, Adaramodu downplayed the claim made by Senator Natasha, stressing that the court judgment she referred to was not binding. Instead, he described the ruling as “an advisory opinion” rather than a compulsory mandate for the Senate to reinstate her. Nonetheless, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan remains adamant about her decision to resume her senatorial responsibilities despite the Senate’s stance. Meanwhile, a viral video currently circulating on various social media platforms shows a significant increase in the number of security operatives, including heavily armed personnel, stationed at the entrance of the National Assembly Complex. This action is presumably to forestall any potential breach of peace or public order that may arise from the senator’s controversial return attempt.
The Federal High Court in Kano has rejected a lawsuit filed by the All Progressives Congress (APC), which aimed to halt statutory federal funding to the 44 local government areas (LGAs) in Kano State, currently governed by the New Nigerian People’s Party (NNPP). This legal battle, initiated in November 2024, was spearheaded by APC’s Kano State Chairman, Prince Abdullahi Abbas. Aminu Aliyu Tiga and other national entities were named as respondents in the case. APC’s primary argument contested the legitimacy of the NNPP-led local council officials. The party claimed these officials were unlawfully appointed and did not emerge through constitutionally mandated democratic elections as stipulated by the Nigerian Constitution. The suit encompassed several key national bodies, including: APC urged the court to nullify the tenure of the 44 local government chairmen, alleging that their positions contravened Section 7(1) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended). Additionally, they sought a legal restriction preventing federal authorities from allocating funds to these councils. Presiding over the case, Justice Simon Amobeda ruled that the APC’s lawsuit was baseless and, therefore, dismissed the case with finality, leaving no avenue for further pursuit at this level. Although the respondents signaled their readiness to discontinue the case, Justice Amobeda cited Order 50 Rules 3, 4, and 5 of court procedures, stating that any withdrawal should occur within 14 days of service. During earlier proceedings, Mr. Sunday Olowomoran, representing the plaintiffs under the instruction of Abdul Adamu-Fagge, SAN, verbally applied to withdraw the case. Olowomoran informed the court that the appellate court had, on June 30, declared that the Federal High Court lacked jurisdiction, placing the Kano State High Court as the proper forum for the matter. Despite this move, several co-respondents insisted that the case should not be merely struck out but outrightly dismissed—with costs imposed on the APC. For instance, representatives of the CBN (Mr. B.D. Uche) and RMAFC (S.G. Ahmad) opposed the withdrawal, each demanding ₦1 million in legal costs. Similarly, Tajudeen Abdullahi, lawyer to the Attorney-General of the Federation, requested a dismissal of the case and demanded ₦2.5 million in costs. Bashir Yusuf-Muhammad, representing the Kano State Government, called for the application of legal principles to warrant a ₦2 billion cost against the plaintiffs. The Kano State Attorney-General’s counsel, Sani Mustafa-Dauda, also recommended a ₦5 million cost penalty on the APC. Additionally, Ibrahim Wangida, counsel for the Kano State Independent Electoral Commission (KANSIEC), highlighted the adverse impact of the lawsuit on the commission, noting that their office remained inaccessible for three months. He requested ₦2 million as compensation. Representing the 44 local government councils, Senior Advocate of Nigeria Eyitayo Fatogun, advocated for the case’s dismissal with an associated ₦2 million cost, citing Order 50 of the court’s rules. Finally, Mustapha Hussaini, lawyer for the 44 LGA chairpersons, concluded the submissions by requesting a ₦44 million compensation in total for his clients.
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The Nigerian Presidency has officially denied circulating reports claiming that Muhammed Babangida, son of former military leader General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (IBB), rejected his recent appointment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as Chairman of the Bank of Agriculture (BOA). Earlier this week, a letter attributed to Muhammed was shared publicly by Ovation Magazine publisher, Dele Momodu, suggesting he turned down the prestigious appointment. However, the Presidential Media Aide, Olusegun Dada, promptly addressed the controversy via a post on X (formerly Twitter), debunking the rejection claims as completely false. In his statement, Dada clarified: “Muhammed Babangida has accepted the role of BOA Chairman and has conveyed his sincere appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for this trust.” Babangida also issued an official press release on Monday, where he discredited the purported rejection letter as “false and malicious.” He emphasized that the narratives circulating online were orchestrated to mislead the public and undermine the credibility of the Tinubu-led administration. Dada’s statement further stressed: “We categorically confirm that Muhammed Babangida has accepted the appointment as Chairman of the Bank of Agriculture, expressing gratitude for the confidence reposed in him by the President.” Furthermore, the Presidency assured Nigerians that the perpetrators behind the misinformation campaign would face thorough investigations and possible prosecution. They reaffirmed their commitment to transparency, accountability, and national unity. The statement concluded by urging citizens to always verify information from credible sources to avoid being misled by politically motivated falsehoods. President Tinubu had earlier approved several strategic appointments across critical sectors, with Babangida’s BOA chairmanship being a significant part of the leadership restructuring aimed at boosting Nigeria’s agricultural sector. Despite the Presidency’s clarification, the controversy was fueled by a letter dated July 21, 2025, allegedly authored by Muhammed Babangida, where he reportedly declined the appointment. The letter, again publicized by Dele Momodu, cited personal and professional reasons for his decision. The controversial letter, titled ‘Declining Appointment as Chairman, Bank of Agriculture’, expressed gratitude to the President but stated: “After careful thought and consultation, I have respectfully decided to decline the appointment. This decision is influenced by a mix of personal and professional factors that would hinder my ability to commit fully to the role’s demands.” Muhammed’s letter further conveyed his unwavering support for President Tinubu’s administration and his willingness to contribute to national development through alternative avenues where his expertise is relevant. Dele Momodu, who recently defected from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), reacted via his Instagram page, praising Muhammed for “rejecting a Greek gift.” Meanwhile, the ADC criticized President Tinubu, accusing him of leveraging appointments to gain political traction in Northern Nigeria ahead of the 2027 General Elections. Muhammed Babangida’s appointment as BOA Chairman was among the recent executive decisions made by President Tinubu, intended to revitalize leadership within key institutions that are vital to Nigeria’s economic and agricultural progress.
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The Rivers State Judiciary has formally dismissed circulating claims suggesting that a State High Court ruling prevented the Sole Administrator of the State, retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, from proceeding with the inauguration of the newly confirmed Chairman and members of the Rivers State Services Commission. The judiciary clarified that no such judicial restriction exists while a pending lawsuit is yet to be decided. On Monday, July 14, 2025, certain reports alleged that Justice Frank Onyiri of the State High Court directed all involved parties to uphold the existing condition—known legally as maintaining the “status quo”—through an April 2024 order. It was further reported that the case was adjourned, with judgment scheduled for September 29, 2025. The ongoing legal action was initiated by Rev. Goodlife Iduoku Ben, Amadi Christian Echele, Chimenem Wisdom Jerome, and three others. They are challenging what they describe as an unlawful suspension by the Sole Administrator, claiming their removal and replacement bypassed due legal procedure. The plaintiffs argue that their appointments were properly processed and ratified by the Rivers State House of Assembly. Supporting this, they presented records maintained by the Clerk of the House that confirm their formal approval prior to the issuance of their appointment letters by the Governor. In an affidavit sworn by the suspended Chairman, Rev. Ben, the aggrieved parties insist that Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas lacks any constitutional authority to suspend or replace them with new appointees in the commission. The case lists several defendants, including the Sole Administrator himself, the Rivers State Accountant General, Access Bank, Zenith Bank, and eleven additional entities. However, the Rivers State Judiciary released a disclaimer dated July 14, 2025, repudiating the accuracy of these circulating reports. The judiciary described the news as both misleading and baseless, asserting that no injunction was issued by Justice Frank Onyiri that would bar the Sole Administrator from proceeding with the commission’s inauguration. This clarification was provided in a statement signed by Menenen Poromon, the Deputy Chief Registrar of the Rivers State Judiciary. The judiciary urged the public to disregard the misinformation being widely shared on social media and other platforms. The official statement partially reads: “Our attention has been drawn to a false news report being circulated on social media alleging that Hon. Justice Frank Onyiri of the Rivers State High Court issued an injunction restraining the Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas (Rtd.), from inaugurating the newly confirmed Chairman and Members of the ‘Rivers State Services Commission’ pending the court’s decision on the ongoing suit.” Nevertheless, LMSINT MEDIA emphasizes that the court had indeed instructed all parties to maintain the current state of affairs until the matter is fully adjudicated. This has ignited public discourse on the legal interpretation of “maintaining status quo,” with citizens expressing diverse opinions on the implications of such a court directive within the context of an ongoing legal process.
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Babatunde Raji Fashola, SAN, the former governor of Lagos State and ex-Minister of Works and Housing, has been appointed to the Board of Directors of Resolve to Save Lives Nigeria (RTSL Nigeria), a renowned international public health entity. This announcement was officially made by RTSL Nigeria on Friday. The organization is globally recognized for its unwavering efforts in curbing cardiovascular diseases and mitigating the spread of epidemics across the world. RTSL Nigeria established its Nigerian office in Abuja in 2022. The organization works collaboratively with national governments and local communities to address some of the most lethal health threats facing the world today, reinforcing public health systems and ensuring swift epidemic response. Speaking on this significant appointment, Dr. Tom Frieden, who serves as the President and Chief Executive Officer of Resolve to Save Lives, expressed immense enthusiasm about Fashola joining the board. He stated, “We are elated to have Mr. Fashola on the Board of Directors of RTSL Nigeria. His over two decades of dedicated public service in Nigeria have clearly showcased his deep-seated commitment to enhancing the wellbeing and livelihoods of Nigerians.” Fashola, who holds the prestigious title of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), has a distinguished career in public service. Prior to his tenure as Minister of Power, Works, and Housing under the administration of President Muhammadu Buhari, Fashola notably served as the Chief of Staff in Lagos State. He was later elected as the Governor of Lagos State, a role he held from 2007 until 2015. His leadership during the 2014 Ebola outbreak in Nigeria remains a standout achievement, earning him both local and international acclaim. His effective handling of the crisis led to his recognition with the esteemed Stephen J. Solarz Award by the International Crisis Group, an honor bestowed upon individuals who have made significant contributions to global peace and security. Upon his appointment, Fashola expressed his gratitude and eagerness to contribute to the organization’s life-saving mission. He remarked, “It is a great honor to join the board of Resolve to Save Lives Nigeria. I am committed to advancing the organization’s mission to reduce preventable deaths caused by cardiovascular illnesses and infectious disease outbreaks.” Ibrahim Abubakar, another distinguished member of the RTSL Nigeria board and Dean of the Faculty of Population Health Sciences at University College London, also praised the inclusion of Fashola. He emphasized that Fashola’s vast governance experience and his proven leadership during public health emergencies would be invaluable to the board’s strategic initiatives. RTSL Nigeria continues to bolster its impact by drawing on the expertise of seasoned leaders like Fashola, further strengthening its capacity to prevent health crises and promote public health sustainability in Nigeria and beyond.
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There has been growing speculation surrounding the health condition of Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, the former National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and ex-Governor of Kano State, following widespread reports alleging that he is critically ill and receiving treatment in a London hospital. However, in an exclusive conversation with LMSINT MEDIA on Monday, Ganduje’s Chief of Staff and the former Kano State Commissioner for Information, Comrade Mohammed Garba, has addressed the rumours. Garba clarified that while the 75-year-old Ganduje is currently in London, his health remains stable, contrary to claims suggesting he is gravely ill. “He is doing well. Naturally, for someone of Ganduje’s age, occasional health issues are expected, but the reports stating he is in critical condition are completely false,” Garba stated during the interview. Garba further revealed that Ganduje has been in London since the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari, which explains his absence from Buhari’s funeral events in Nigeria. “We were in contact with him just last night, and there’s absolutely no cause for alarm. Of course, anyone can experience minor ailments, but he is in a stable condition,” Garba assured. The Chief of Staff emphasized that if Ganduje were genuinely battling a severe health condition, there would be no reason to keep such information away from his political supporters and the public, especially for the sake of prayers and support. Additionally, a family insider who spoke with LMSINT MEDIA on the condition of anonymity corroborated Garba’s statement. The family source insisted that there was no credibility to the circulating rumours regarding Ganduje’s health status. “Although I haven’t spoken to him directly, I have communicated with those around him in London. They confirmed that the alarming reports we’re seeing online are baseless. We are also just seeing these rumours without any truth behind them,” the family source disclosed. It is worth recalling that Ganduje stepped down from his role as APC National Chairman in 2023, citing health reasons in his official resignation letter. However, shortly after his resignation, he resumed public duties as the Chairman of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN). This development sparked debates among political observers, with some questioning the authenticity of his health-related resignation. Others have speculated that Ganduje’s resignation might be a strategic political move to facilitate the inclusion of his longstanding rival, Dr. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, another former Kano State Governor, into the APC.
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Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has officially refuted claims that he issued any threat to Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential flagbearer in the 2023 general elections, following Obi’s recent visit to Edo State. Recall that Peter Obi had visited Benin City, the capital of Edo State, where he made a charitable donation to St. Philomena Hospital School of Nursing Sciences to support the completion of ongoing projects in the institution. Governor Okpebholo expressed disapproval of Obi’s visit, asserting that it coincided with a noticeable uptick in violent incidents within the state. He emphasized the importance of adhering to established state protocols, particularly for politically influential figures like Peter Obi, when visiting Edo State. Previously, reports circulated that the governor had allegedly warned Obi to refrain from entering the state again without giving due notice to the state authorities, or he might face unspecified consequences. This claim stirred significant controversy across Nigeria, eliciting strong criticism and public outcry from notable Nigerian figures and a broad spectrum of social media users. In response to the growing backlash, the Edo State Government released an official statement through the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, on Sunday. The statement sought to clarify the governor’s earlier comments and dispel any misconceptions. “The Edo State Government is aware of the various misinterpretations of the recent comments made by His Excellency, the Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, concerning the visit of Mr. Peter Obi to the state,” the statement read. “For the record, the governor did not issue any threats towards Mr. Obi. Rather, he emphasized the necessity for notable figures, especially those holding political significance, to inform the state government and seek necessary security clearances prior to engaging in public activities within Edo State.” The statement further stressed that the government cannot afford to overlook politically-driven activities that could potentially endanger the safety and well-being of Edo residents. It underlined that leaders of all calibers, regardless of status or political affiliations, are expected to align with local protocols and observe security measures pertinent to the regions they intend to visit. This clarification aims to ensure that political engagements in Edo State proceed with proper coordination, minimizing risks and upholding public safety standards
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Former governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Adamawa State, Senator Aishatu Ahmed Binani, has officially dumped the APC for the African Democratic Congress (ADC). The development was confirmed by Binani’s media assistant, Maulud Usman, during an exclusive interaction with LMSINT MEDIA on Sunday afternoon. According to Usman, Senator Binani arrived in Yola on Saturday evening, where she privately disclosed her decision to join the ADC to a select group of family members and close associates. By Sunday morning, social media platforms across Adamawa State were awash with viral reports about her defection. However, as at that time, there was no formal press release or public statement to authenticate the news circulating online. Further clarifying the situation on Sunday afternoon, Maulud Usman revealed that the announcement was done discreetly, with no formal invitation extended to journalists or media outfits for coverage. He emphasized that although the move was made quietly, Senator Binani plans to return to Yola shortly to formally align herself with the ADC through a more publicized event. Binani, who represented Adamawa Central Senatorial Zone in the National Assembly, contested for the governorship of the state under the APC banner during the 2023 general elections. She, however, narrowly lost to the sitting governor, Ahmadu Fintiri of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). According to a report by the Daily Post Nigeria (source link), Binani’s departure from the APC does not come as a surprise to political observers. She had been experiencing ongoing frictions with the state’s APC leadership, which reportedly contributed to her decision to part ways with the party. The root of this discord is linked to what many perceive as the state APC’s overt allegiance to the current National Security Adviser (NSA), Malam Nuhu Ribadu. As a top federal appointee, Ribadu is regarded by many as the de facto leader of the APC in Adamawa State. However, this dynamic has not sat well with Senator Binani, particularly given the political rivalry that exists between them. It is worth recalling that Nuhu Ribadu was among the five aspirants who contested the APC gubernatorial ticket but lost to Binani ahead of the 2023 polls. Political analysts speculate that Ribadu remains keen on either running for governor himself or supporting a favored candidate when the 2027 governorship race kicks off. With this development, the political landscape in Adamawa State is expected to experience new alignments and intrigues as the 2027 elections approach.
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The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has openly criticized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent series of appointments, accusing him of attempting to restore lost trust among Northern Nigerians after a prolonged period of neglect. This strong criticism was conveyed through an official statement released on Saturday by Bolaji Abdullahi, the party’s National Publicity Secretary. According to the ADC, Tinubu’s appointments reflect a reactionary political strategy aimed at damage control rather than a genuine effort towards fostering national inclusion. In the party’s words:“You cannot ignore and marginalize an entire region for over twenty-five months, then expect commendation just because you’ve decided, in the twenty-sixth month, that Nigeria extends beyond Lagos State,” the statement declared. Further, the ADC emphasized that Tinubu’s government has persistently marginalized the North, excluding the region from significant policy decisions and power-sharing arrangements since his tenure began. The party insisted that these recent high-profile appointments are merely superficial efforts designed to pacify the region rather than integrate it into the heart of national governance. “Northerners, as equal stakeholders in Nigeria’s federal structure, are discerning enough to recognize the difference between genuine inclusion and mere political tokenism. President Tinubu’s gestures are transparent attempts at appeasement without substance. Symbolism can never replace effective governance,” Abdullahi stressed. The ADC also called on President Tinubu to forsake what it described as “Bourdillon-style appeasement politics” — a reference to political strategies associated with Lagos State’s power dynamics — and to instead prioritize authentic national unity. The party urged the administration to engage in comprehensive consultations across all regions, enforce equitable policies, and strictly adhere to the principles embedded in the federal character of Nigeria.
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Suspended Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has reaffirmed her intention to return to the Senate on Tuesday, citing a court judgment backing her move. Akpoti-Uduaghan, currently facing suspension, made this declaration during a media interaction while attending a training program in her constituency on Saturday. She emphasized that her suspension had significantly hindered her from carrying out her constitutional legislative responsibilities. According to Natasha, she has formally notified the Nigerian Senate in writing of her decision to resume her senatorial duties. She referenced the recent Federal High Court ruling in Abuja, clarifying that regardless of the ongoing debates surrounding the court’s decision, she is determined to return to her seat in the National Assembly. “I have just about two months left before the six-month suspension duration lapses. Nevertheless, I have written once more to the Senate, informing them that I will be resuming on the 22nd, which falls on Tuesday, by God’s special grace,” she stated confidently. Akpoti-Uduaghan stressed that her decision is anchored on the judicial ruling, affirming her legal right to return to the Senate despite the existing controversies.
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The Lagos State Government has reinforced its stance against illegal trading activities occurring under key infrastructural landmarks such as the Idumagbo Bridge and the Third Mainland Bridge. Specifically, areas like Oja Oba and Adeniji Adele have come under scrutiny as the government scales up efforts to address persistent flooding across the state by executing extensive drainage and infrastructural works. This directive comes after an official inspection led by the Lagos State Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, on Saturday, July 19, 2025. During the inspection, notable progress was observed in various flood management projects, reinforcing the necessity for continuous public support and cooperation. Commissioner Wahab highlighted the ongoing construction of the Onikoyi/Turnbull drainage collector, which is being developed to link Banana Island with Park View Estate. Upon completion, this infrastructure is projected to significantly curtail flooding within these high-end communities. He also mentioned that several local drains are currently being expanded to integrate with more extensive drainage systems, enhancing the capacity to manage heavy rainwater, especially in the Banana Island region, which is prone to flooding. Despite these advancements, Wahab expressed his displeasure over the re-emergence of unauthorized commercial activities under bridge areas previously cleared by the government. He emphasized that such practices directly threaten the integrity of the state’s infrastructural investments and flood control measures. In his words, “Public safety will always come before informal trading ventures. These infrastructures are essential for flood mitigation and were never designed for market activities,” Wahab affirmed. The commissioner also warned that individuals who persist in disobeying state regulations are not only risking their own safety but could eventually attempt to shift accountability to the government in the event of avoidable disasters. To tackle the misuse of these critical spaces, the Lagos State Parks and Gardens Agency (LASPARK) has authorized the transformation of these locations into well-managed green spaces and formal parks. Wahab insisted that, until these plans are fully realized, any form of unauthorized trading within these areas must be stopped immediately. He concluded by reiterating that the success of Lagos State’s infrastructure resilience initiatives hinges on strict public adherence to the guidelines put in place. “Lagos is fully dedicated to creating sustainable systems that safeguard both lives and property. However, these efforts can only yield lasting results if every resident plays their part by respecting these measures,” Wahab concluded.
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A significant motion has been introduced at the Abia State House of Assembly by Hon. Isienyi Boniface, the legislator representing Ikwuano constituency, seeking strict and mandatory regulation of orphanage homes within the state. This motion, aimed at addressing rising concerns over child abduction and trafficking, was presented during a recent plenary session of the Assembly. During his lead debate, Boniface emphasized that orphanage homes are fundamentally established to provide a haven for vulnerable children, especially those who have been abandoned or whose families are incapacitated and unable to provide adequate care. However, the legislator raised concerns over troubling reports suggesting that certain orphanages in Abia State are allegedly involved in illicit activities. Instead of serving as protective shelters, these facilities are reportedly engaging in child trafficking, abductions, exploitation, and psychological or emotional abuse of children entrusted to their care. Hon. Boniface further expressed that the absence of a robust regulatory framework has led to the proliferation of illegal operations disguised as orphanages, commonly referred to as “baby factories.” He noted that some of these homes fail to conduct thorough background checks on their staff and volunteers, which significantly increases the risk of exposing the children to individuals with dubious or criminal backgrounds. According to Boniface, instituting comprehensive regulation under the supervision of the Abia State Ministry of Women Affairs is critical. Such regulation would facilitate the creation of an accurate and verifiable database of all children in orphanage homes, as well as details of adoptive parents. This approach aims to guarantee the children’s safety and enables authorities to track their well-being and whereabouts whenever necessary. Additionally, the legislator advocated for the Ministry of Women Affairs to enforce stringent licensing and permit requirements for any organizations intending to establish and operate orphanage homes within the state. Implementing rigorous standards would help prevent these homes from becoming conduits for criminal activities under the guise of charitable services. Reacting to the motion, the Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Emeruwa, commended Boniface Isienyi for bringing such a critical issue to the floor. The Speaker endorsed the prayers embedded in the motion, acknowledging the urgent need for systemic reforms to protect vulnerable children in Abia State.
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Hope Uzodinma, the Governor of Imo State, has renewed his advocacy for the creation of two additional states within Nigeria’s South-East region to ensure that the geopolitical zone stands on equal footing with other regions across the federation. Governor Uzodinma made this strategic proposal while delivering a speech in Owerri during the ongoing public hearing on the 1999 constitution review. The Governor emphasized that constitutional reforms are urgently needed to address the longstanding grievances and multiple agitations originating from different regions of the country. He reiterated that reviewing the constitution provides a crucial pathway to foster inclusiveness, justice, and equitable distribution of resources — especially for the South-East region, which he stressed has suffered marginalization in state creation. Legal Recognition of Indigene Status and Rotational Presidency In his address, Uzodinma suggested that the constitution should clearly define the concept of “indigeneity” through criteria such as birth or prolonged residency in a state. This, he argued, would promote a deeper sense of belonging among citizens, regardless of their place of origin within Nigeria. Additionally, the Governor pushed for the entrenchment of rotational presidency, not just between the Northern and Southern regions but also among Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. This, he noted, would advance national unity and political stability. Advocating State Policing for Enhanced Security Governor Uzodinma also threw his weight behind the decentralization of policing powers in Nigeria. He argued that enabling states to establish their own police forces would enhance the nation’s security architecture by ensuring a more responsive and effective law enforcement system tailored to local peculiarities. He urged the National Assembly to give serious consideration to these proposals during the constitutional review process, underlining that a constitution reflecting the collective values and aspirations of all Nigerians is indispensable for the country’s national stability and progress. “Our diversity is a source of strength, not weakness. But this strength must be harnessed through the rule of law and principles of equity. Thus, our constitution must represent our shared values and not merely demarcate our borders,” Uzodinma affirmed. A Call for Peaceful Constitutional Engagement He called on the South-East populace to leverage the constitutional review process to seek redress for their historical grievances through peaceful and legal avenues, rather than resorting to threats of secession or violence. According to Uzodinma, the ongoing public hearings demonstrate the vitality of democracy, which thrives only where justice and fairness are upheld. “I am not among those agitating for the total abolition of the 1999 Constitution. Instead, I support its continuous review to address the diverse opinions across the country, fortifying our young democracy,” he remarked. “Like constitutions in other countries, ours is a work in progress. Let us build on it. Today’s hearing is a vital part of that progressive effort. There is no flawless constitution anywhere. That is why parliaments exist globally,” he added. Addressing South-East Underrepresentation in Nigeria Speaking further, the Imo State Governor lamented that the South-East remains the only zone in Nigeria with just five states, compared to six or seven in other regions. He stated that this imbalance has led to the region’s underrepresentation in critical national institutions, including the National Assembly and the Federal Executive Council. “Our representation is minimal, and our inclusiveness curtailed. Therefore, it is fair and just that we demand the creation of at least two additional states in the South-East,” Uzodinma asserted. He specifically recommended that Anim State should be among the newly created states. He pointed out that Anim State holds significant economic potential due to its prospective status as an oil-producing state, ensuring its financial sustainability and revenue generation capacity. The Governor also proposed that the creation of new local government areas (LGAs) in the zone should accompany state creation efforts. Abia State Governor Supports Inclusive Reforms In a similar vein, Abia State Governor Alex Otti, represented by his Deputy, Ikechukwu Emetu, advocated for a constitution that champions inclusivity, state policing, and free, compulsory universal basic education. Otti emphasized the need for the Federal Government to incorporate legal safeguards, establish oversight committees, and adopt a structured command model to mitigate potential abuses that could arise from implementing state police. Legislative Stakeholders Endorse Constitutional Amendments The public hearing, hosted at Eze Imo Palace in Owerri, featured key stakeholders from Imo and Abia States. The session was formally opened by Benjamin Kalu, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives and Chairman of the House Committee on the 1999 Constitution Review. During his address, Kalu described the review process as a pivotal historical endeavor aimed at redefining Nigeria’s destiny. He stated that it is also intended to address gaps in the nation’s legal framework while reinforcing the guiding principles of the constitution. He assured that the Committee has made deliberate efforts to ensure that every segment of Nigerian society is represented through inclusive engagement in the constitution amendment process. “The constitution should serve as a social contract reflecting the present realities, desires, and aspirations of Nigerians, acting as a moral compass for the country’s future,” Kalu emphasized.
