Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has made a compelling call for the adoption of innovative and bold approaches to address the ever-evolving challenges impacting the most vulnerable populations globally. Her advocacy was made during her speech at the 3rd Annual Global First Ladies Alliance Academy, currently ongoing in New York, USA. Delivering her remarks at the esteemed international platform, Oluremi Tinubu highlighted how her Renewed Hope Initiative serves as a key tool in promoting the empowerment of women and youth in Nigeria. Through this initiative, she aims to create pathways to more sustainable livelihoods and improve the quality of life for Nigerian families. The First Lady explained the complexity of navigating public life as a First Lady, emphasizing the importance of complementing one’s spouse through impactful, rather than burdensome, actions. “It’s not easy to maintain balance in such a role. Whatever you do must either support your husband’s leadership or become a burden. So, it’s best to focus on doing the right things, no matter how small they seem,” Tinubu stated. She encouraged her fellow First Ladies and public servants not to shy away from offering what may seem like minor contributions. “Don’t be hesitant to offer your little. That little could be someone’s lifeline. Face challenges head-on. That’s exactly what we are doing, and we’re beginning to witness gradual, yet significant results,” she added. The session welcomed First Ladies from across the globe, including: Dr. Cora Neumann, a Montana state senator and the founder of the Global First Ladies Alliance, which hosts the forum, addressed the participants with a powerful message. She emphasized that the role of a First Lady extends far beyond the confines of official duties and tenure in office. “Your ideas, obstacles, and experiences have deeply influenced every part of this academy. We not only welcome your ongoing input but expect it. You are helping to redefine what it means to be an impactful First Partner on the world stage,” Neumann asserted. She went on to urge the First Ladies to lead with empathy and authenticity, describing leadership as a role of the heart. The executive leadership training, co-organized with Columbia University’s Mailman School of Public Health, aims to strengthen the participants’ capacity, deepen their social impact, and enhance the efficiency of their offices. It also serves to build a global network of leadership among First Ladies, empowering them to support one another and their nations through shared experiences and insights. Looking ahead, Oluremi Tinubu is expected to deliver a more detailed special keynote address during the forum. Her upcoming speech will focus on her transformative programs for women, children, and youth in Nigeria, underlining her dedication to nurturing inclusive growth, gender equity, and societal resilience.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has revealed that Nigeria’s economy is on a gradual path to recovery under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, attributing this to comprehensive reform efforts across multiple sectors. Speaking in Abuja on Wednesday during a courtesy call by members and newly elected officials of the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE), the minister emphasized that while the country still faces economic hurdles, the ongoing efforts are yielding measurable results. According to Idris, although Nigeria has yet to reach its desired economic state, positive indicators of advancement are increasingly evident. He explained that the Tinubu-led administration is “turning the corner” and pushing beyond past economic limitations. “The economy is not yet where we envision it, but signs of steady growth are clear. President Tinubu continues to reassure the nation that we’re making a turn toward stability. While some may argue that Nigeria hasn’t yet reached an ideal state, I insist that visible progress is being achieved,” the minister noted. He also pointed out that international rating organizations have begun acknowledging Nigeria’s strides, providing the country with modest but promising economic ratings. These, he said, are reflective of the improving management of the economy. The minister further credited key policy reforms such as the removal of fuel subsidies and the unification of foreign exchange rates as major contributors to the ongoing economic improvements. In addressing education reforms, Idris highlighted the Federal Government’s significant intervention through the Student Loan Scheme, which now supports roughly 300,000 students. He said these beneficiaries, who might otherwise be unable to afford tuition or sustain themselves in school, are receiving full academic and welfare sponsorship from the government. “Thanks to the government’s targeted and deliberate policy, more than 300,000 Nigerian students are currently receiving tuition and maintenance support. Many of these students were previously unable to afford an education. This is a landmark achievement,” Idris stated. On national security, the minister assured that the Tinubu administration is taking firm steps to resolve security challenges. He noted continued successes in combating violent crime and insurgency throughout the country. Calling for responsible media engagement, Idris urged journalists and news outlets to support the Armed Forces by highlighting their victories and sacrifices, instead of amplifying the notoriety of violent groups such as bandits and terrorists. “It’s critical that we, as media professionals, do not glorify the actions of criminals or insurgents above the efforts of patriotic citizens. The press must play a constructive role in shaping national security narratives,” he stressed. He further advocated for more balanced coverage — not just of attacks and conflicts, but also the relentless dedication of security personnel across the country. According to Idris, amplifying military victories can discourage criminal activities and boost troop morale. The minister acknowledged that while the media must hold government officials accountable through fair criticism, journalists must also help broadcast the administration’s achievements to promote national confidence. In response to a Law Reform Report presented by the Nigerian Guild of Editors, the minister promised to collaborate with the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation. He also pledged to form a committee within his ministry to review the report comprehensively. Idris reaffirmed that one of President Tinubu’s core policy principles is the protection of press freedom and freedom of expression, which he described as foundational to Nigeria’s democratic system. However, he called on media professionals to practice these freedoms with a deep sense of national responsibility, highlighting the importance of promoting peace, unity, and social harmony. The minister closed his remarks by congratulating the new leaders of the Nigerian Guild of Editors and reaffirmed his dedication to fostering closer collaboration between the media and the government. Earlier, Dr. Sebastian Abu, the Deputy President of the Guild, explained the purpose of the visit — to officially present the Guild’s Law Reform Committee report. He said the document identifies outdated and restrictive laws in Nigeria’s legal framework that must be amended or eliminated to ensure a freer and more supportive environment for journalism in the country.
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The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has firmly reiterated its commitment to democratic principles, stating categorically that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will be voted out of power through legitimate electoral processes—not by violence, military intervention, or any unconstitutional means. The party made this declaration on Wednesday in response to recent claims from the Presidency alleging that a group of opposition parties is plotting to topple Tinubu’s administration. In a swift and strongly worded reaction, the ADC Interim National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, described the claim as both dangerous and unfounded, warning that it could serve as a pretext for a crackdown on dissent. The controversy was ignited by a tweet from Bayo Onanuga, one of President Tinubu’s media aides. Onanuga had alleged that an opposition coalition was conspiring to orchestrate a forceful removal of the current government—a claim that has since triggered widespread reactions across the political landscape. Responding directly to the tweet, Abdullahi condemned it in its entirety, branding it as a reckless attempt to criminalize political opposition in Nigeria. He asserted that such remarks from the Presidency not only lack credible evidence but also raise concerns about the administration’s growing intolerance toward opposing voices. According to Abdullahi, the real intention behind Onanuga’s statement could be to justify future clampdowns on opposition leaders, critics, and dissenters under the guise of national security. He warned that such authoritarian tactics would be met with resistance from all who cherish the democratic values enshrined in Nigeria’s constitution. “The African Democratic Congress completely rejects and condemns the insinuation that we or any other political group seeks to undermine democratic institutions or processes. We are not in the business of overthrowing governments—we are politicians, not insurgents,” Abdullahi emphasized. Continuing, he clarified that the ADC remains focused on its political agenda, which includes presenting a clear policy alternative and a visionary plan for Nigeria’s future. The party, he said, believes in using the ballot box as the instrument for change, not bullets or force. “We have no weapons—our only weapon is the ballot. We are resolute in our commitment to democracy, and we will contest and win through electoral means when the time comes,” he added. The ADC also reassured Nigerians that it would never support or promote the disruption of democratic governance, no matter the level of dissatisfaction with the current administration’s performance. Instead, the party sees the 2027 general election as the rightful platform to unseat President Tinubu through the will of the people. This response from the ADC highlights growing political tension and suspicion in Nigeria’s evolving democracy. It also signals that opposition parties are beginning to organize around electoral strategies, rather than revolutionary ones, in their bid to reclaim leadership from the All Progressives Congress (APC). As Nigeria moves closer to another election cycle, observers and civil society groups have emphasized the need for political tolerance, free speech, and open competition, rather than suppressive narratives or intimidation tactics.
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Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, Nigeria’s current National Security Adviser (NSA), has issued a strong warning to critics who underestimate the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Speaking during the 2025 National Cyber Security Conference held in Abuja, Ribadu expressed confidence in the current administration’s achievements, cautioning that dismissing Tinubu’s capacity is a dangerous misjudgment. The conference, themed ‘Building a Resilient Digital Future’, brought together experts, government officials, private stakeholders, and international participants to explore pathways to national cyber resilience. While addressing the audience—which included dignitaries from both within and outside the country—Ribadu made firm declarations about President Tinubu’s governance qualities. “We have quality leadership in Nigeria today. Mr. President is not just informed, he is technologically inclined and intellectually sound. People who take him lightly are making a grave mistake,” Ribadu stated. Tinubu’s Leadership Is Stabilizing Nigeria – Ribadu Ribadu emphasized that despite widespread misinformation and criticism from some quarters, President Tinubu’s administration is gradually bringing stability and progress to Nigeria. According to him, those who are loudly criticizing the government are not in touch with reality. “Things are indeed changing. We are working towards national stability. Nigeria is becoming safer and more secure each day. The economy is beginning to stabilize. Things are improving, one step at a time,” he asserted. He also shed light on the administration’s collaboration with major telecom providers, noting that such partnerships are enhancing national security. “We are closely cooperating with major telecommunications companies. Nigeria is not what it used to be. Forget the noise. The Niger Delta is now more secure than before. Even the South-East is gradually normalizing.” Ribadu further vowed that the government would crack down on diaspora-based actors instigating violence back home. “Those causing unrest from outside the country will face the law. We are disrupting the flow of illicit funds they send to Nigeria. We are seeing results, but unfortunately, many don’t see them,” Ribadu added. Critics Are Expired Politicians – Ribadu The NSA didn’t hold back in his description of the administration’s critics. He referred to them as expired politicians desperate to reclaim relevance. “These are desperate individuals who believe political power is their birthright. They appear on television stations like Channels and Arise TV to scream and cause division. But the truth is—they are outdated and irrelevant.” He went on to accuse them of being responsible for Nigeria’s long-standing problems: “They fueled our religious, ethnic, and political divisions for their own benefit. Nigerians are smarter now. These critics should step aside and let the current administration address the mess they created.” Nigeria is the Future of Africa – Ribadu Tells Investors Calling on both local and international investors, particularly in the tech and telecommunications sectors, Ribadu urged them to see Nigeria as a fertile ground for investment. “Nigeria is the gateway to Africa’s future. We are ready. We invite investors and telcos to come in and partner with us for progress,” he declared. Building a Resilient Digital Future is Non-Negotiable Ribadu also used the opportunity to stress the importance of cyber resilience, pointing out that public institutions, banks, academic institutions, and marketplaces are now prime targets for cybercriminals. “Cybersecurity isn’t optional anymore. It’s a foundational component of both national defense and economic growth. A secure digital environment must be purposefully and collectively built,” he said. He disclosed that the federal government had taken tangible steps to fortify Nigeria’s cyber space through the establishment of the National Cyber Crime Centre, which is now fully operational. EFCC Chair Olukoyede Outlines Anti-Cybercrime Progress Also speaking at the event, Mr. Ola Olukoyede, Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), elaborated on the Commission’s ongoing efforts to counter cyber threats. He revealed that by the end of 2025, all EFCC activities—including petition submission, investigations, and prosecutions—will be fully digitalized to enhance transparency and efficiency. Olukoyede reported impressive achievements over the past two years in tracking and tackling cyber fraud. He specifically mentioned a major breakthrough where a group of 194 cybercriminals were arrested in one operation. Out of those, 146 have already been successfully prosecuted and convicted. “We’ve discovered foreign nationals using Nigerian identities to carry out fraudulent activities. But we’re catching up to them. The digitalization of our systems will make such crimes harder to commit,” Olukoyede concluded.
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Abia State’s Governor, Alex Otti, has made an appeal to the Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), urging the commission to consider boosting the federal allocation allocated to Abia State. According to Governor Otti, this increase would play a crucial role in accelerating the pace of the state’s developmental programs and initiatives. The governor delivered this request on Sunday from his official office, where he received a courtesy visit from Mrs. Nkechi Otti, who currently serves as the Federal Commissioner representing Abia State at the RMAFC. Governor Otti emphasized that a higher allocation from the federal purse would significantly improve Abia’s capacity to implement its numerous projects spread across the state. He made reference to a recent evaluation by the Debt Management Office (DMO), which highlighted the state government’s efforts in maintaining strong financial discipline. He stated clearly: “Anything you can do to help us increase our Federal allocation will be very much appreciated. Once again, thank you for the report. I will take my time and read through it. We have a lot of things on our hands. If we get more money to be able to execute them, why not? Particularly, we have also shown financial discipline.” In her remarks before the governor, Mrs. Nkechi Otti explained that her presence in Abia State was part of a familiarisation tour, as she had only recently been appointed to the commission a few months ago. The commissioner noted that she was keen on understanding how to better represent the interests of Abia State within the RMAFC. Governor Otti reiterated that with additional funding support from the federal government, his administration would be better positioned to fast-track its development objectives across sectors such as infrastructure, healthcare, education, and job creation. He stressed that his administration had been prudent in managing the state’s resources, which should encourage the commission to consider a fairer and increased allocation package. The appeal from Governor Otti comes against the backdrop of significant development challenges faced by Abia State, ranging from infrastructural decay to high youth unemployment. An improved federal revenue allocation could therefore help bridge funding gaps and provide the much-needed boost to local economic development. The governor closed his remarks by thanking Mrs. Nkechi Otti for the familiarisation visit and for delivering the commission’s report, assuring her that his team would review it thoroughly and engage further on all recommendations that would benefit the state
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Suspended senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents the Kogi Central Senatorial District, has officially disclosed plans to resume her legislative duties in Nigeria’s Senate chamber by Tuesday. The senator made this known in a video message currently making rounds on social media platforms while speaking to supporters who were visibly celebrating the favorable court judgment. Expressing heartfelt gratitude, Natasha acknowledged the loyalty and encouragement from her followers throughout the legal battle. “I sincerely thank you for standing by me. I am happy to announce that we have secured victory today. By God’s grace, we shall return to the Senate on Tuesday,” she declared in her video address. According to LMSINT MEDIA, a ruling delivered last Friday by the Federal High Court in Abuja pronounced that Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s six-month suspension from the Senate was not only excessive but also unconstitutional, violating the representation rights of her constituents in Kogi Central. The court judgment, which was handed down by Justice Binta Nyako, ordered Natasha’s immediate reinstatement. In addition, Justice Nyako emphasized that a post Natasha published — described as a satirical apology directed toward the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio — was in breach of an existing interim injunction granted on March 4, 2025. That injunction had prohibited all parties in the matter from issuing public statements or posting about the dispute on social media platforms. Ultimately, the verdict affirmed Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s entitlement to resume her legislative responsibilities without further delay, giving her supporters a reason to celebrate as she looks forward to rejoining the National Assembly next week.
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Peter Obi, who has declared his ambition to contest the 2027 presidential election and was the Labour Party’s standard-bearer during the 2023 general polls, has confidently asserted that the people of northern Nigeria would celebrate his presidency if elected. Obi, who has become a central figure in the opposition alliance operating under the African Democratic Congress (ADC), made this statement while featuring as a guest on Sunday Politics, a programme aired on Channels Television. During the interview, Obi explained that the northern part of Nigeria is a region blessed with extraordinary untapped resources and possibilities. With 19 states, the North possesses extensive fertile farmlands and wields a powerful voter base. Nonetheless, he observed that these abundant assets have consistently been compromised and overshadowed by the continuing security challenges plaguing the area. Peter Obi elaborated by saying, “We have voted for incompetence, we’ve voted for tribe, and we’ve voted for religion. It is time to vote for competence.” He further emphasized that he wanted northerners to have confidence in him, assuring them that their greatest resources lie within their region, particularly in the vast, underutilized agricultural lands. He also acknowledged the severe criminal activities ravaging the North and pledged to tackle those head-on. Obi reiterated that if he becomes president, he is confident the North would be proud of him and would rejoice over his leadership. According to him, he is well aware of the deep-rooted problems affecting the region and holds a practical vision for addressing them.
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Elon Musk, the renowned technology billionaire and influential entrepreneur, has officially revealed plans to launch a new political party in the United States named the “America Party.” This significant announcement came on Saturday, shortly after Musk engaged his followers on X (formerly Twitter) by polling them on whether there was a need to establish a fresh political party within the nation’s political landscape. This development follows Musk’s growing political rift with his one-time ally, former President Donald Trump. In recent times, tensions between Musk and Trump have escalated, leading to a clear fracture in their previously aligned views. LMSINT MEDIA highlights that Musk has been outspokenly critical of Trump’s presidential administration ever since he left government advisory circles. The Tesla CEO, who also previously held the high-profile position of leading the Department of Government Efficiency, has repeatedly voiced concerns over certain policies pushed by Trump’s team. A particular point of contention was the so-called “Big, Beautiful Bill,” a massive legislative proposal touted by Trump. Musk condemned this bill in harsh terms, labelling it as reckless and even going so far as to describe it as an “insane spending bill.” He warned publicly against the bill’s passage, stating that if it were to become law, he would immediately move forward with forming a new party — which he later confirmed would be called the America Party. The billionaire’s statement was delivered in a firm post shared on X, where he reiterated his frustration with what he perceives as excessive government spending measures under the Trump-aligned policy. Musk’s call for a new political movement could represent a dramatic shift in the American political ecosystem, potentially drawing in supporters who share his views on innovation, efficiency, and fiscal restraint. As debates continue to swirl around Musk’s political influence and whether a new party can truly challenge the entrenched two-party system, many observers will be watching closely to see how the America Party develops its platform and recruits its base. Whether Musk’s foray into formal politics will succeed or further polarize the electorate remains to be seen, but his bold move is already sparking conversations about alternatives to traditional political alignments in the United States.
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Lagos State Governor, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, has firmly rejected the credibility of a proposed political coalition seeking to challenge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 general elections. He argued that this new alliance is both shallow and lacking in meaningful direction. Speaking at an interactive gathering in Lagos with journalists as well as political stakeholders, Governor Sanwo-Olu confidently backed President Tinubu’s ongoing reform agenda, emphasizing the consistent backing of Nigerians toward the administration. He labelled the coalition — reportedly aligning with the African Democratic Congress (ADC) — as nothing more than an unnecessary disruption designed to derail Nigeria’s progress. According to Sanwo-Olu, “Nigerians will never go back to Egypt,” implying that the nation has evolved beyond the outdated political approaches and ideologies of previous administrations. He further stated, “The true aim of this coalition is obvious: to distract the Commander-in-Chief and interrupt the substantial social and economic progress currently underway. But President Tinubu is fully aware of their tactics and remains unwavering.” The proposed coalition features various well-known political figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi, former Senate President David Mark, past Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi, and former governors Nasir el-Rufai and Rauf Aregbesola. Despite the experience and stature of these politicians, Sanwo-Olu insisted that the alliance represents nothing more than what he described as a gathering of “discontented actors,” not a viable alternative to the administration currently in power. Governor Sanwo-Olu underlined that President Tinubu’s administration has already delivered measurable results, highlighting improvements such as better foreign exchange stability, the launch of a student loan program, stronger revenue generation for state governments after fuel subsidy removal, tax system reforms, a boost in oil production, as well as progress on infrastructure and minimum wage policies. In his words, “President Tinubu is not simply a leader, he is a nation-builder. His legacy of empowering others and visionary leadership continues to create positive change throughout Nigeria.” Responding to a question about whether President Tinubu or the All Progressives Congress (APC) felt threatened by the coalition, Sanwo-Olu made his position very clear. “There is no reason for fear. Nigerians are wise and perceptive; they can recognize genuine leadership and concrete results when they see them. The evidence speaks louder than political noise.” He also repeated sentiments earlier voiced by some aides to the President, describing the coalition members as “political desperados” and “internally displaced politicians” who do not deserve serious attention. “The coalition offers no fresh ideas, only personal grievances. Their unifying thread is opposition to the President rather than any cohesive or forward-thinking vision. Such alliances will inevitably collapse under the weight of their own contradictions,” he continued. When asked for his advice to President Tinubu amid the growing political rhetoric, Governor Sanwo-Olu was clear and concise: “Stay on course. Millions of Nigerians, regardless of their party affiliations, understand the challenges of leadership and the complexity of reviving a struggling economy. They trust him and stand firmly in his corner.” He also appealed to citizens to stay focused and resilient, stressing that no distractions should divert the administration from its dedication to national development.
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Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, the Governor of Borno State, has firmly rejected rumours that he intends to abandon the All Progressives Congress (APC) in favour of the African Democratic Congress (ADC). He categorically dismissed these claims as groundless and motivated by political mischief. In an official press release signed by Dauda Iliya, who serves as the governor’s spokesperson, Zulum described the viral reports, which were shared on multiple online media outlets, as a fabricated narrative with no foundation. According to him, these false stories were designed to stir up avoidable political tension within Borno State and the country at large. The statement emphasized: “We have been alerted to a fake and intentionally misleading post on social media, alleging that I plan to decamp from the All Progressives Congress, APC, to the African Democratic Congress, ADC, along with five other governors.” Governor Zulum flatly denied these reports, describing them as the handiwork of political opponents who, in his words, have never made constructive contributions toward the growth and stability of Borno State or Nigeria. “This entire claim is untrue, existing only in the imagination of its originators,” Zulum maintained, calling the story a perfect illustration of politically motivated falsehood intended to divert the attention of his administration. The Borno State Governor firmly restated his allegiance to the APC, highlighting his unwavering commitment to the positive transformation of Borno State. He stressed that his administration’s priority remains the well-being, progress, and stability of Borno residents. “My loyalty to the APC is absolute, and my commitment remains devoted to the peace, prosperity, and reconstruction of Borno State. We will not give in to distractions or cheap political blackmail, as our attention is fully focused on the noble mission of rebuilding and transforming our beloved state,” he explained. Governor Zulum further advised media professionals, news organizations, and the general public to verify any politically related reports through credible and trustworthy sources. He cautioned against falling prey to the divisive tactics of political adversaries who thrive on spreading misinformation. In conclusion, Zulum reaffirmed that there was no truth whatsoever to the rumoured defection plans and reassured Borno citizens and APC supporters that he remains fully dedicated to the party and its mission for the state’s development.
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Jimin Geoffrey, who formerly served as Senior Special Assistant on Media to ex-Benue State Governor Samuel Ortom, has voiced deep frustration over the persistent and unprovoked assaults targeting the people of Benue State by heavily armed Fulani herdsmen. Speaking to LMSINT MEDIA, Jimin emphasized that even with President Bola Tinubu’s recent courtesy visit to Benue in the aftermath of the violent bloodbath at Yelwata, located in Guma Local Government Area, the attacks have shown no sign of abating. According to Jimin, who himself hails from Guma, on Saturday, the 21st of June, 2025, four individuals tragically lost their lives at several different spots across Makurdi and Guma. These included Tse Ati, Uda Yagba, and Tse-Kator within Guma LGA. He continued by recounting another harrowing incident on Sunday, the 19th of June, 2025, when four officers from the Mobile Police Force were savagely murdered by the so-called harvesters at Udei, also within Guma Local Government Area. In a similar vein, on the 2nd of July, 2025, these bloodthirsty elements launched another brutal offensive on Kwaghgba village, where at least three innocent residents were reportedly slaughtered in cold blood. Tragically, on Thursday, the 3rd of July, 2025, militia herders carried out yet another violent assault in Ukohol village, again situated in Guma, where no fewer than three villagers were killed. The string of violence continued, according to Jimin, when the horror shifted to Tse-Anundu in Udei on Friday, the 4th of July, 2025. During that attack, Mr. Nomsoor Anundu was killed, while two other individuals suffered gunshot wounds and are currently undergoing medical treatment. LMSINT MEDIA recalled that President Tinubu, during his visit on June 18, 2025, had directed both the Chief of Defense Staff and the Inspector General of Police to ensure those responsible for the violence are flushed out. Additionally, Tinubu ordered the Directors General of the Nigerian Intelligence Agency (NIA) and the State Security Service (SSS) to restructure their intelligence-gathering systems to obtain credible information to prevent similar tragedies in the future. However, our correspondent found that despite these high-level directives, the overall security environment in Guma and surrounding areas remains dangerously unchanged. Jimin decried that these terrorist elements have occupied deserted farms and abandoned homes, from which they continue to launch deadly raids against anyone venturing into their own backyard to engage in farming. “The ease with which these terrorists carry out their operations and retreat unchallenged is frightening,” he lamented. “I fear there may be another bloodbath looming for Benue State.” Jimin further emphasized, “I wish to state it without any doubt that the Renewed Hope slogan promised to Nigerians by Mr. President during his election campaigns, for the people of Benue, has only translated into RECURRING DEATHS. “We die daily, anywhere and anytime, at the pleasure of these so-called harvesters who seem to have planted us in this part of the country. Even the security operatives assigned to protect us have not been spared from their killing spree. “Countless victims, among them children who barely survived previous attacks, are still battling for their lives in different hospitals. Meanwhile, these gun-wielding terrorists are persistently plotting new attacks on more Benue communities without facing any resistance,” he concluded.
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The quest for the establishment of Adada State once again took center stage on Friday during the National Assembly’s public hearing on proposed amendments to Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution. At the forefront of this passionate demand was Chief Nnia Nwodo, the former President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide. Speaking before lawmakers, he argued decisively that the planned Adada State, to be carved out of present-day Enugu State, stands as the most credible and prepared among all the southeastern state proposals. Nwodo explained to the National Assembly that Adada had already satisfied every constitutional criterion needed for state creation. These include the essential parliamentary approval and subsequent presentation for a referendum to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), in line with section 8 of the constitution. Additionally, Chief James Ugwu, who chairs the Adada State Movement, highlighted that this push for Adada State did not begin recently. Rather, he traced its roots to 1970, when a formal request was submitted to then-Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, just after the Nigerian civil war. Senator Okey Ezea, who represents Enugu North Senatorial District, reiterated that the proposal for Adada State fully aligns with the 1999 constitutional requirements and deserves the National Assembly’s immediate approval. These stakeholders made their firm positions known during the South East Zonal public hearing for constitutional review in Enugu on Friday. Nwodo cited Section 8(1) of the constitution, which stipulates that a new state may be created via an Act of the National Assembly, provided two-thirds of all legislators from the concerned area — including members of the House of Assembly, House of Representatives, and Senate — sign on in support. Submitting an amendment to facilitate Adada’s creation, Nwodo showed clear evidence that his people had satisfied all these constitutional demands. Legislators across Enugu State — councilors, state lawmakers, and National Assembly representatives — had endorsed the proposal, he said. Nwodo also recalled that Adada State had already been recommended for creation during the 2014 National Conference led by Justice Idris Kutige, which endorsed it as the sole state deserving of creation. He stressed that Adada remains a highly viable candidate thanks to its abundant human talent and natural resources. Furthermore, he emphasized that Adada is the most persistently agitated region in Nigeria yet to receive state status, despite other former provinces being granted states. Nsukka province, in particular, has not benefited from this arrangement. According to Nwodo, the old Nsukka zone — historically known as Adada — is the only colonial-era district in northern Igbo land that was never made a state capital. Meanwhile, the southern parts of Igbo land have already secured three states, leaving the northern segment with just two. He argued that fairness demands prioritizing Adada’s statehood, especially given its long struggle dating back to 1983 in the Senate, before any other southeastern state proposal. “There are compelling reasons to create Adada State,” he declared. “First, in the last round of state creations, the northern Igbo area — covering Enugu and Ebonyi — only gained two states, while the southern Igbo secured three. Disparities like this breed frustration and resentment.” He added, “Secondly, Igbos are a significant population within Nigeria, yet their true numbers are consistently undercounted. Over half of our people live outside Igboland, and virtually every part of Nigeria has a considerable Igbo community that contributes to its prosperity.” Highlighting the demographic imbalance, Nwodo argued that Adada State comprises seven of Enugu’s 17 local government areas, with six based firmly in Adada territory and one in Enugu East senatorial district. Despite representing 54% of Enugu State’s population, the area has just six local governments, while other senatorial zones enjoy disproportionate representation. He called this unfair: “Out of 17 LGAs, we only control six but account for 54% of the people. The other two senators represent only 22% each, while our senator serves 52% of the population. One local government was even shifted out to balance a senatorial district, further diluting our voice.” Nwodo recalled that the Adada movement had sought National Assembly backing during the leadership of David Mark and Ahmed Lawan. Although they received hearings, state creation was not a government priority at the time. He expressed hope that the current National Assembly, with its emphasis on inclusiveness, would deliver justice. “In 2014, Justice Idris Kutige’s constitutional conference explicitly endorsed Adada as the only state recommended,” he reminded lawmakers. He also recounted how, when Achike Udenwa governed Imo State, the entire Igbo community gathered there to choose a priority state, unanimously resolving that Adada should be created. That resolution still stands today. Describing Adada as a “neglected and wounded” part of the southeast, Nwodo cited the unfair federal executive representation. At the time the local government boundaries were drawn, only Silas Ilo and Jim Nwobodo represented their interests, resulting in a mere six LGAs for Adada’s majority population. Nwodo appealed to the committee: “Daniel has come to judgment today. Let justice come through this National Assembly.” He underscored Adada’s economic promise, mentioning oil and gas reserves in Uzo-Uwani that are being horizontally drilled by Anambra State. The area also holds immense agricultural potential, a navigable waterway linking to the Niger and Benue rivers, and a highly educated workforce thanks to institutions such as the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. “We have one of the best universities, producing professors who can manage the state efficiently,” he said. “I trust I have appealed to your conscience.” Chief James Ugwu, Chairman of the Adada State Movement, reiterated that he still holds the 1970 petition that was sent to General Gowon for Adada’s creation. He argued that forming Adada would correct long-standing inequities within Igbo land by giving the northern Igbo (Wawa people) three states, matching the southern Igbo’s three, and ensuring the southeast joins other geopolitical zones with six states each. “Since we have fulfilled section 8(1) of the 1999 constitution, our next step should be a referendum supervised by INEC,” he insisted. Senator Okey Ezea supported these sentiments, describing Adada as the only province
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Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, has officially named Abdulwahab Mohammed as the Senior Special Assistant on Communication. The appointment was made known in an announcement released on Friday through Mukhtar Gidado, who serves as the governor’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity. Within the statement, it was highlighted that Abdulwahab Mohammed is a seasoned journalist who previously served with the Voice of America (VOA) Hausa Service. “This appointment demonstrates Governor Bala Mohammed’s dedication to reinforcing the state’s communication strategy and enhancing interaction between the government and the people,” the statement explained. Additionally, Gidado noted that Abdulwahab would be responsible for promoting the government’s policies and initiatives, expanding public awareness, and supporting the advancement of good governance across the state. According to the statement, the appointment is to take effect immediately.
