Tinubu Undermines Rivers State by Appointing RSIEC Chairman from Cross River – Nwibubasa

Dr. Lelonu Nwibubasa, a former Rivers State Commissioner for Empowerment and Employment Generation, has openly criticized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as an outright act of disrespect and marginalization toward the people of Rivers State. According to Nwibubasa, the recent appointment of a non-native—Dr. Michael Ekpai Odey from Cross River State—as the Chairman of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC), is not only unprecedented but also deeply offensive. He expressed his disapproval during a live interview on Arise TV’s Morning Show held on Friday. This reaction comes in the wake of the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, reading President Tinubu’s letter to the National Assembly, listing seven individuals nominated for RSIEC roles. The nominees include: Reacting strongly, Nwibubasa condemned the decision, saying it deepens existing tensions and highlights a troubling pattern of replacing native leadership with outsiders. “It’s shocking that even three months after a state of emergency was imposed on Rivers State—ignoring constitutional procedures and widespread opposition—the President has failed to reverse this illegal action,” he said. Instead, Nwibubasa argued, the administration continues to erode the state’s political structure by bringing in non-indigenes. “Where else in Nigeria has any state’s electoral commission been chaired by someone from another state? This is a dangerous precedent.” He further suggested sarcastically that, based on this logic, Nigeria could as well invite foreign nationals from countries like Ghana to oversee its electoral bodies. Nwibubasa described the situation as humiliating and indicative of total disregard for the people of Rivers State. He reminded the public of Rivers State’s significant contributions to the nation’s economy and stability. “This is not just an insult—it’s a complete dismissal of our value and relevance as a people. The National Assembly, despite knowing this appointment is flawed, still validated it.” He said that the silence and complicity of the National Assembly only reinforced the belief that President Tinubu’s administration is sidelining the state intentionally. “This whole process feels like a bad joke taken too far. Rivers people are deeply offended, and I assure you that we’ll pursue all constitutional avenues to challenge this decision.”

NADECO Appeals to Trump for Visa Ban on Akpabio, Abbas, and Ibas Over Rivers Emergency Rule

The National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), a prominent political advocacy group, has sent a formal letter to former U.S. President Donald Trump, urging him to place a visa restriction on Senate President Godswill Akpabio, House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, and Rivers State’s Sole Administrator, Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas. The official letter—addressed directly to Trump at the White House—was obtained by LMSINT MEDIA and signed by Lloyd Ukwu, the Executive Director of NADECO-USA. According to Ukwu, the visa restriction is a fitting response to what the group described as the trio’s deep involvement in anti-democratic activities related to the political situation in Rivers State. “The National Democratic Coalition (NADECO USA) wishes to bring to your attention a pressing matter of grave concern regarding the erosion of democratic principles in Nigeria,” the letter begins. The statement referenced the events of March 18, 2025, when Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu declared a controversial and allegedly unconstitutional state of emergency in Rivers State. The declaration allegedly allowed President Tinubu to unilaterally suspend the sitting Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy Dr. Ngozi Odu, and the Rivers House of Assembly. Subsequently, President Tinubu appointed Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas as the state’s Sole Administrator—an action NADECO decries as a violation of both the Nigerian Constitution and international democratic standards. NADECO further pointed out that such presidential actions could not have been executed without the direct support of Senate President Akpabio and House Speaker Abbas, suggesting complicity from the National Assembly’s leadership. “This action not only undermines Nigeria’s democratic institutions but blatantly disregards the will of Rivers State citizens, who democratically elected their leaders,” the letter noted. Asserting that the United States has long stood as a global protector of democracy, NADECO called on Trump to instruct the U.S. Department of State to enforce a visa ban not just on Akpabio, Abbas, and Ibas, but also on their immediate families. “This measure would send a strong signal in defense of democracy and the rule of law in Nigeria,” NADECO argued, stating that such sanctions would show the United States’ continued support for democratic principles. Furthermore, NADECO-USA revealed plans to push for similar visa restrictions in the United Kingdom and the European Union, targeting the same individuals and their families. “Beyond this, NADECO USA will explore all legal and political options—both within and outside the U.S.—to hold the individuals accountable for their efforts to sabotage Nigeria’s fragile democracy and destabilize the entire Niger Delta region,” the statement continued. The letter concluded by appealing to President Trump to uphold democratic values through diplomatic pressure, encouraging active support from the U.S. Department of State and the Embassy in Abuja. This appeal follows President Tinubu’s emergency rule declaration in Rivers State on March 18, 2025, where he ordered the suspension of elected officials, including Governor Fubara. Shortly afterward, Ibas presented a N1.48 trillion budget to the Senate Committee, claiming it anticipated Fubara’s eventual return to office.

Tinubu Allegedly Cedes Rivers Political Control to Wike Ahead of 2027 Elections

Outrage has erupted among political observers and citizens of Rivers State as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu failed to address the ongoing suspension of democratic governance in the state during the 26th Democracy Day celebration on June 12, 2025. Many Nigerians had anticipated that the President would seize the symbolic occasion to reinstate Governor Siminalayi Fubara and reintroduce democratic leadership in Rivers State. However, those expectations were unmet, as President Tinubu remained silent on the matter during his speech to the joint session of the National Assembly. Previously, Tinubu had declared a six-month suspension of democratic governance in Rivers State, invoking Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), citing escalating tensions and the threat of breakdown of law and order under Governor Fubara’s leadership. In his address at the time, Tinubu noted that militant groups had openly issued violent threats against perceived enemies of the Governor, whom Fubara allegedly failed to distance himself from. According to the President, the situation had become untenable, prompting the constitutional emergency declaration on March 18, 2025. Despite ongoing federal allocations to a Sole Administrator, residents of Rivers State told LMSINT MEDIA that conditions in the state have worsened, with stalled projects and a deepening governance vacuum. Attempts by Fubara to present the 2025 budget to the Rivers State Assembly were rebuffed, and on March 12, 2025, he was denied access to the assembly quarters. In the midst of this power struggle, Fubara has sought reconciliation with his political godfather, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike. Sources confirmed that he met with Wike in Abuja on June 13 and earlier visited President Tinubu in Lagos ahead of the Democracy Day celebration. Despite these efforts, the President maintained the emergency rule, drawing criticism from Senator Henry Seriake Dickson of Bayelsa West, who argued that Tinubu missed an opportunity to restore democracy. Highlighting the historical significance of June 12, Dickson lamented the President’s decision to sidestep the Rivers issue, stating, “One cannot claim to be a democrat while suppressing democratic rights.” Speaking with LMSINT MEDIA, Chizy Enyi, APC chieftain and Port Harcourt-based lawyer, alleged that Tinubu’s true motive is to secure political dominance in Rivers ahead of the 2027 elections. Enyi claimed Tinubu’s suspension of Fubara was a strategic move to hand control of the state’s political structure to Wike, empowering him to mobilize grassroots support. Enyi added that the Sole Administrator currently in place is filling key political positions with Wike’s loyalists and even organizing local government elections—actions Enyi argues are unconstitutional and reflective of military rule. He pointed to a Supreme Court ruling barring caretaker appointees from running LGAs, asserting that Tinubu’s actions flout that decision. He further contended that had Fubara’s allies been appointed instead, Wike’s camp would have responded with violence. According to him, “The crisis in Rivers is not about governance, but about Tinubu entrusting Wike with political control for 2027.” Despite the President’s absence from Rivers since his election, Enyi said, Tinubu still expects political support in 2027. “Time will judge this administration,” he stated. “Rivers people will not forget.” Chief Eze Chukwuemeka Eze, a former nPDP spokesperson and APC chieftain, echoed these concerns in a separate interview with LMSINT MEDIA. He alleged that Tinubu’s actions were not aimed at stabilizing Rivers but at marginalizing former Transport Minister Rotimi Amaechi politically. According to Eze, the emergency rule is a tactical ploy to prevent Rivers from developing like Lagos or Akwa Ibom. Eze accused Tinubu of deliberately crippling Fubara to ensure compliance with a broader agenda. “The emergency rule will persist until Tinubu is confident Fubara will act in line with their political designs,” he said, warning that the move is causing long-term harm to the state. Residents also voiced concerns. Dike Emmanuel from Port Harcourt criticized the halt in infrastructure projects. “No new road works have been initiated. What is the federal allocation being used for?” he asked. Another resident, Finipri Obomanu, disputed the justification for the emergency rule. “There was peace even before Fubara’s suspension. Rivers is not among the states battling daily killings,” he said, citing more severe insecurity in states like Benue and Zamfara. The Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide joined the growing calls for the reinstatement of democracy in Rivers. The group appealed to Tinubu to honor the spirit of June 12 and restore both Governor Fubara and the elected lawmakers. The Council emphasized that Tinubu, a major beneficiary of Nigeria’s democratic history, must lead by example and uphold the constitutional rights of Rivers people.

President Tinubu Commends Governor Uba Sani for Restoring Peace and Unity in Kaduna State

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has praised Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani for his commendable efforts in bringing back peace and stability to a state previously troubled by security and ethnic tensions. During an official visit to Kaduna on Thursday, Tinubu expressed pride in being associated with the governor, particularly for transforming a volatile environment into a more harmonious one. As part of his visit, the President commissioned several major projects, including the Institute of Vocational Training and Skills Development in Rigachikun, located in the Igabi Local Government Area. He also unveiled the 300-bed Bola Ahmed Tinubu Specialist Hospital situated in Millennium City, along with the deployment of 100 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses. Under the leadership of the former governor, Nasir El-Rufai, Kaduna experienced severe insecurity, notably ethnic clashes and communal unrest. However, President Tinubu emphasized that the current administration had reversed that narrative. Acknowledging the strides made by Governor Sani, Tinubu said that Kaduna has now been set on a course of sustainable growth by prioritizing peacebuilding initiatives and encouraging ethnic reconciliation across communities. In his address, the President assured that the Federal Government is committed to supporting the state further, including plans to establish a light rail transportation system to enhance mobility and economic activity. “Senator Uba Sani deserves recognition for his emphasis on both security and infrastructure since assuming office,” Tinubu stated. “We are here today to witness the positive outcomes of his administration.” He continued, “Governor Uba Sani represents transformation, unity, peace, and progress. What was once a volatile and uncontrollable atmosphere has been restored to calm and stability. I applaud his leadership and proudly say that Kaduna is thriving again. Working alongside him is a privilege.” President Tinubu also extended his appreciation to traditional leaders across Kaduna State for their unwavering support of the governor’s peace and development initiatives.

Rivers State 2025 Budget: 85% Prepared by Suspended Governor Fubara – Senate Uncovers

In a recent revelation by the Nigerian Senate, it has been disclosed that approximately 85% of the proposed N1.48 trillion 2025 Rivers State budget was initially developed by the suspended Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, before his removal from office. This revelation came during a budget defence session held at the National Assembly, where retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, who currently acts as the state’s sole administrator, appeared before the Senate Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Governance in Rivers State, chaired by Senator Opeyemi Bamidele. Bamidele stated that the Senate’s red chamber had closely analyzed the Rivers State budget over the past three weeks. Their findings confirmed that a significant portion—85 percent—of the 2025 budget was originally created under the guidance of Governor Fubara before his suspension. The remaining 15 percent of the budget, according to the committee, was inserted by the current administration to reflect new development projects. In addition to the primary budget submission, Vice Admiral Ibas has proposed a N50 billion supplementary appropriation bill. This request is intended to tackle unpaid pensions and gratuities owed to civil servants in the state. Earlier in June, LMSINT MEDIA reported that Ibas had indicated that the budget was structured with an expectation that Governor Fubara might return to office. This situation follows the federal government’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, triggered by prolonged political instability and administrative conflicts.

El-Rufai Declares Tinubu Has No Chance in 2027 Presidential Election

Nasir El-Rufai, the former governor of Kaduna State, has asserted that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu stands no chance of securing re-election in Nigeria’s 2027 presidential polls. Speaking during a media chat shared on X (formerly Twitter), El-Rufai, now a prominent figure in the Social Democratic Party (SDP), stressed that anyone who believes Tinubu can win again is disconnected from the current political climate in Nigeria. According to El-Rufai, public confidence in the All Progressives Congress (APC) and President Tinubu has dwindled significantly, leaving little hope for their success in the next general election. This comes despite persistent assurances by Tinubu’s administration that the country’s economic hardships would soon ease. The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, recently outlined the administration’s economic reforms on Channels Television, affirming that the government had taken solid steps to stabilize the economy. However, El-Rufai countered this optimism, stating plainly: “Anyone who thinks President Bola Tinubu can get re-elected is not living in Nigeria. There’s no way Tinubu can return to office.” He further stated that even the most disorganized opposition could defeat Tinubu, citing widespread dissatisfaction among Nigerians with the APC’s leadership and governance style. “There is no pathway for him,” El-Rufai remarked, insisting that citizens are too disillusioned for a repeat mandate. Commenting on the wave of defections to the ruling APC, El-Rufai dismissed their relevance, claiming the real focus of the SDP and its coalition is the electorate. “Those decamping are mainly opportunistic politicians seeking contracts, positions, or immunity,” he noted. He also suggested that many defectors are switching allegiance due to fears of investigation by agencies like the EFCC or ICPC, especially if they have a questionable past. El-Rufai emphasized that the SDP-led coalition is strategically focused on connecting with voters and offering a credible alternative to the ruling party in 2027. He added, “Our coalition believes the 2027 contest will be between Nigerians and the APC.” Once a major supporter of President Tinubu in the 2023 elections, El-Rufai is now firmly aligned with the SDP and is actively pushing a political movement to unseat the current administration. Alongside notable political figures like former Rivers State Governor Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi and ex-Vice President Atiku Abubakar, El-Rufai is spearheading efforts to ensure that Tinubu is removed from office through the electoral process come 2027.

Nigerian Troops and CJTF Disrupt Boko Haram Supply Chain in Yobe, Eliminate Terrorist

In a recent successful joint mission, Nigerian Army troops under Operation Hadin Kai, working closely with the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), intercepted a Boko Haram supply movement along the Gashua–Buni Gari corridor in Yobe State. The effort led to the neutralization of a terrorist, along with the seizure of logistics materials and a motorcycle intended for insurgent use. Insider information revealed to Zagazola Makama disclosed that the operation was launched following credible intelligence that exposed terrorist activities involving the transportation of vital supplies to militant hideouts in the region. The joint team, already positioned for surveillance duties around the Gashua axis, swiftly launched an ambush to intercept the suspects. During the confrontation, one insurgent was eliminated, while others managed to escape into surrounding terrain. Post-engagement, the security personnel secured a motorcycle and key logistics items allegedly meant to support Boko Haram factions operating in the zone. A reliable source emphasized that the rapid response by troops, combined with the alertness of CJTF operatives, played a crucial role in halting the movement of critical supplies to insurgents. “Their prompt action disrupted the passage of essential resources to Boko Haram elements in that region,” the source confirmed.

2027: Only the President Can Decide His Running Mate – Idris Denies Tinubu-Shettima Rift

Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has dismissed rumours of a fallout between President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima. This follows growing speculation that the President may be considering another candidate as his running mate if he secures the All Progressives Congress (APC) ticket for re-election in 2027. At one point, it was reported that the Vice President was allegedly denied access to the President at the Presidential Villa. In a more recent development, the APC leadership in the North-East, headed by Mustapha Salihu, threw public support behind President Tinubu without mentioning Shettima. This move triggered a reaction from Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum, who led a protest over the endorsement of Tinubu by the APC North-East without involving Shettima. However, during an appearance on Channels Television on Wednesday, Minister Mohammed Idris described the alleged conflict as imaginary and baseless. “This supposed feud exists only in the minds of those who want to believe it,” Idris stated. “I have personally seen the President and the Vice President working together closely, and I’ve been in the same room with both of them recently.” When asked about the possibility of Shettima not being on the 2027 presidential ticket with Tinubu, Idris responded, “Where did you hear that? Was Shettima’s name mentioned when Tinubu was given the ticket the first time? The selection of a vice president is entirely at the discretion of the President.” He continued, “President Tinubu selected Kashim Shettima, and they are collaborating excellently. I’m not aware of any disagreement or tension. These are mere fabrications.” Responding to the report that Shettima was at some point prevented from seeing the President, the Minister dismissed it, comparing the situation to past political rifts. “This is not a case of Atiku and Obasanjo. Tinubu and Shettima have a long-standing relationship. I see no sign that President Tinubu intends to replace his Vice President,” he asserted. “Just yesterday, Vice President Shettima was representing the President at the banquet hall. Almost every week, you’ll find him attending major functions on behalf of the President.” Idris concluded by asking, “Has Vice President Kashim Shettima ever publicly stated that he has any issues with the President?”

2027: Has Tinubu Sacrificed Shettima for His Second-Term Agenda?

When Bola Ahmed Tinubu emerged as the APC’s flagbearer in the 2023 presidential election, he might have chuckled privately in August 2022 as his running mate, Kashim Shettima, confidently projected their roles during the NBA Annual General Conference in Lagos. “I’ve operated in conflict zones for 18 years. I will command our forces, while my principal, a financial strategist who built Lagos into Africa’s third-largest economy, will focus on economic matters,” Shettima proclaimed, surprising attendees. He emphasized, “By divine will, I will manage national security and personally lead troops throughout the nation.” This, despite being fully aware that Section 130(2) of the 1999 Constitution clearly grants the president sole command of the armed forces. That misstep revealed Shettima’s misunderstanding of the man he joined in a political partnership. Now, nearly two years in, Vice President Shettima may be reflecting on where it all went wrong. Not only was he never allowed to lead the military, but his authority has gradually eroded. Even access to the president appears to have become a rare privilege. In April, reports emerged suggesting Shettima was barred from entering the Presidential Villa. Though the Presidency rebutted the claim on April 19, calling it a “deliberate and coordinated fabrication,” many discerning Nigerians were not convinced. Allegations of severe internal conflict within the Presidency and discord at the highest levels weren’t random rumors but echoes from Aso Rock itself. So, when Tinubu’s 2027 reelection billboards surfaced without Shettima’s image — and the Presidency dismissed any tension — it was interpreted as political manipulation from the playbook of Tinubu himself. But the façade crumbled. A political blow was dealt directly to Shettima — in his native North-East. At an APC stakeholders’ summit in Gombe, top party officials including Mustapha Salihu (North-East National Vice-Chairman) and Abdullahi Ganduje (APC National Chairman) openly endorsed Tinubu as the sole candidate for 2027 — without including Shettima. The backlash was immediate. Delegates reacted angrily, and both officials had to be escorted out. Even an attempt by Bukar Dalori, Deputy National Chairman (North), to endorse both Tinubu and Shettima failed to calm the audience, and the event ended abruptly. But Ganduje and Salihu are mere messengers. The real architect of Shettima’s dilemma is his boss, President Tinubu. These emissaries were merely there to relay a message from the ultimate authority in Aso Rock. Historically, this isn’t unprecedented. In 2003, efforts were made to remove Atiku Abubakar from Olusegun Obasanjo’s re-election ticket. But Atiku had the political capital to resist. Whether Shettima possesses similar political resilience remains to be seen. Even when Atiku remained on the ticket, his relevance in office was severely diminished. In Tinubu’s case, the power play started early — two years ahead of the 2027 elections. Known for his ruthless style, Tinubu is making Shettima’s humiliation a public spectacle. This may be a strategy to provoke Shettima into a political confrontation he is unprepared for. Should Shettima retaliate, he may be quickly removed by the National Assembly under Senate President Godswill Akpabio. Even if retained for electoral convenience, Shettima’s influence will likely diminish further — possibly worse than what Atiku experienced under Obasanjo. What’s shocking isn’t Shettima’s current ordeal, but Nigerians expressing surprise at all. Before his May 29, 2023 inauguration, Tinubu’s team sold him as a democratic savior — a man of law and order, an economic reformer with the “Lagos magic.” His inaugural speech echoed these sentiments: “We shall govern, not rule. We shall listen, not dictate. We seek unity, not division.” He outlined five guiding principles for his administration, first being: “Nigeria will be impartially governed according to the Constitution and rule of law.” Yet, what followed was more image packaging than genuine intent. Over two years, Tinubu has shown little resemblance to a democrat. His decisions reveal an autocratic mindset, intolerant of dissent. Shettima miscalculated in assuming power would be shared. He overlooked Tinubu’s track record — the only governor in the Fourth Republic to work with three different deputies in eight years. Initially, Tinubu was sworn in with Senator Kofoworola Akerele-Bucknor as deputy governor in 1999. By 2002, she was forced out. Femi Pedro, who began Tinubu’s second term in 2003, also fell out and resigned. Tinubu ended that term with Prince Abiodun Ogunleye, who holds the record for Nigeria’s shortest-serving deputy governor — just 13 days. So while Shettima’s situation is unfortunate, the broader concern is the irrelevance of Nigeria’s vice presidency. Constitutionally, the VP’s primary role is to assist the president, who holds the full spectrum of executive powers and may delegate tasks at will. Despite being part of critical bodies like the National Security Council, Federal Executive Council, National Defence Council, and National Economic Council, the VP’s influence depends solely on presidential discretion. This means, no matter how powerful the office appears on paper, it remains weak in practice — reduced to what late Dr. Chukwuemeka Ezeife once called “a spare tyre.” So, has Tinubu politically discarded Shettima ahead of 2027? Most likely. This raises a deeper question: If Nigerian leaders refuse to empower their deputies, why continue wasting billions maintaining such ceremonial roles? And why do politicians still scramble for these powerless positions despite the grim outcomes of those who came before?

2027: APC Faces Internal Crisis as Governor Zulum Protests Tinubu Endorsement Without Shettima

Tensions are mounting within the All Progressives Congress (APC) as Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, staged a protest on Sunday in response to the party leadership’s endorsement of President Bola Tinubu for re-election—excluding Vice President Kashim Shettima from the ticket. During a North-East stakeholders’ gathering held in Gombe State, APC National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje and the party’s North-East National Vice Chairman, Comrade Mustapha Salihu, publicly declared their support for President Tinubu’s 2027 re-election bid. Notably, their endorsement failed to acknowledge Shettima, who is from the same North-East region and currently serves as Vice President. The exclusion sparked immediate backlash. Protesters, expressing anger over the slight, compelled security forces to escort Ganduje and Salihu out of the venue. The event subsequently descended into chaos, disrupting proceedings entirely. Political commentator and public affairs analyst, Abdul-Aziz Na’ibi Abubakar, shared his concern via X (formerly Twitter), stating: “The APC may have initiated its own undoing. Governor Zulum’s protest against the party’s failure to recognize Kashim Shettima for 2027 signals a deeper internal division.” This development comes amid ongoing unrest in the North-East, following the controversial endorsement of Tinubu, which sidelined Shettima, a political heavyweight from Borno State. In a related backdrop, LMSINT MEDIA had previously reported signs of discontent in the region after Tinubu’s name was floated as APC’s sole candidate for 2027, excluding Shettima. This announcement was made by Ganduje at the party’s national summit in Abuja last month. Adding to the controversy, during Democracy Day celebrations held at the National Assembly, President Tinubu mocked the opposition for lacking unity—comments that may now seem ironic, given the emerging fractures within his own party.

Don’t Force Shettima on Tinubu — Middle Belt Deserves Vice Presidency, Says Melah

Barrister Melah Ibrahim Yusuf Maimuruchi, a prominent legal practitioner and youth advocate, has weighed in on the growing controversy in the North East following the endorsement of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu without a corresponding mention of Vice President Kashim Shettima. The development sparked debate at the gathering where concerns were raised that since both leaders ran on a joint ticket, any form of political endorsement should also acknowledge the Tinubu/Shettima duo. Speaking out on the matter, Melah criticized the notion of enforcing Shettima’s continued vice presidency, stating that Tinubu’s original selection of Shettima doesn’t mean he is now politically or morally bound to him. According to Melah, who represents the Middle Belt youth constituency, the region should be next in line for the vice presidency, emphasizing that no political office is a birthright of any individual or zone. In his signed statement, Melah clarified: “Leadership is not a right conferred by entitlement or coercion. No deputy, vice, or assistant has the inherent authority to force their continued role upon a principal.” He further explained: “At the recent APC Northeast Stakeholders Forum in Gombe, a major highlight was the endorsement of President Tinubu for a second term. Notably, Vice President Shettima was not mentioned. This omission has fueled assumptions that Tinubu may be considering a different running mate in future.” Melah added that despite rising tensions and minor unrest over the issue, what truly matters is understanding that political service is a privilege, not a demand. “True loyalty is proven during uncertainty. When a subordinate tries to cling to power, rather than serve with humility, it raises questions of self-interest and disloyalty.” He stressed the need to shift the national focus from individual ambitions to unity and equitable representation: “As a Northerner from the Middle Belt, my concern is not about who becomes Vice President, but ensuring the position represents national cohesion and regional balance. If Tinubu, using his constitutional right, decides to switch his vice president, it shouldn’t imply marginalization of the North or the Northeast.” Instead, Melah believes such a decision presents an opportunity for deeper national integration. “The Middle Belt, known for its diverse culture and as a vital link between the North and South, is ideal for this transition. Appointing a Vice President from this region would signal commitment to reconciliation, fairness, and inclusive governance.” Melah also acknowledged President Tinubu’s political wisdom in managing national diversity and interests: “So far, Tinubu has shown strong leadership in balancing various national concerns. Choosing a Middle Beltan as vice president will enhance his image as a unifier and deepen his legacy.” In his final appeal, Melah expressed hope that Vice President Shettima, if a change is imminent, would rise above personal ambition: “Should a transition be necessary, I trust Shettima will support the move for the sake of national harmony. The future of our country must always supersede personal political goals.” He concluded by urging for leadership that puts peace, unity, and national growth first: “This is no time for political rivalry or opportunism. It’s a season for nation-building. Anchoring the vice presidency in the Middle Belt would be a bold step toward long-lasting peace and stability.”

2027: Gombe People Fully Behind You, Even Blindfolded – Gov Inuwa Reaffirms Tinubu’s Re-Election Support

Gombe State Governor, Inuwa Yahaya, reaffirmed his strong backing for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s 2027 re-election bid, expressing full confidence in the president’s ongoing leadership and reforms. During the ground-breaking ceremony of an Agro-Livestock Industrial Zone spanning 184 hectares in Gombe State, Governor Yahaya applauded Tinubu’s administration for driving impactful policies and nationwide development initiatives. He emphasized that Nigeria’s livestock sector has undergone remarkable transformation since President Tinubu assumed office in 2023. According to the governor, Tinubu’s substantial investments in livestock infrastructure aim to enhance the economy, boost employment, and improve the general well-being of citizens. Yahaya disclosed that the Agro-Livestock Industrial Zone in Gombe received robust backing from the Federal Government under Tinubu’s leadership. He highlighted that ₦120 billion was approved for the project, with 50% of the funding already disbursed. “For everything President Tinubu has done, is doing, and is yet to do – I confidently assure him that Gombe people will follow him into battle, even blindfolded,” Yahaya declared. “By the grace of God, his success in the 2027 election is guaranteed,” he added. Governor Yahaya emphasized that Tinubu’s prioritization of the livestock industry—a key economic sector in Northern Nigeria—demonstrates his genuine concern for the welfare of the Northern population. “No Northern president in 47 years ever considered investing ₦120 billion to uplift the livestock value chain, even though it is predominantly a Northern business,” Yahaya remarked. He further praised President Tinubu’s bold vision for revitalizing agriculture, especially in Gombe and other rural communities. Yahaya assured citizens that despite the current hardships brought on by economic reforms, brighter days are ahead under Tinubu’s guidance.

Wike, Fayose, Ortom, Ikpeazu Hold Closed-Door Meeting with President Tinubu at Aso Rock

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu recently hosted a high-level meeting at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, engaging with notable political figures including the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, and several Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) stalwarts. The political heavyweights present at the gathering were Ayodele Fayose, former governor of Ekiti State; Samuel Ortom, ex-governor of Benue State; and Okezie Ikpeazu, the past governor of Abia State. The private meeting was convened on Saturday evening at the State House, Abuja. An insider who was familiar with the proceedings but preferred to remain anonymous informed LMSINT MEDIA that: “The President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Tinubu, met with the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, and former governors of Ekiti, Benue, and Abia—Ayodele Fayose, Samuel Ortom, and Okezie Ikpeazu—at the Presidential Villa in Abuja today.” However, as at the time this report was filed, the details of their discussions have not been officially revealed. Notably, during the Sallah holiday on June 9, Fayose had earlier visited President Tinubu at his Lagos residence. After the courtesy visit, the former governor addressed the media, explaining that his motive was to encourage and support the president amid his leadership journey. He reiterated that he had always supported Tinubu’s leadership style, even when serving as a governor under the PDP platform. According to Fayose, the president is deserving of national commendation, especially for steering Nigeria’s economy toward stability amid complex challenges.