The Kogi State chapter of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) has strongly criticized the recent ban imposed by the state government on political rallies and convoys, describing it as a deliberate attempt to stifle opposition voices and weaken democracy. In a statement released on Tuesday, the State Chairman of SDP, Mr. Ahmed Attah, through the party’s Press Secretary, Isaiah Ijele, condemned the restriction, calling it an attack on fundamental democratic principles. Violation of Constitutional Rights Attah emphasized that restricting political gatherings contradicts the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, which guarantees freedom of movement and association. He further urged Governor Ahmed Ododo to take lessons from history and avoid policies that could derail the state’s democratic progress. “The party considers this move as an infringement on citizens’ rights, particularly the freedom of political participation. Kogi is not in a state of war, and there is no justification for suppressing political activities,” Attah stated. A Call for Political Tolerance He also warned against the return to the era of political repression, stressing that opposition parties should be allowed to function without unnecessary restrictions. Instead of limiting democratic engagement, the government should focus on policies that promote development and inclusivity. Attah urged the Kogi State Government to reconsider its decision and place the state’s growth above political interests. He called on civil society organizations, legal experts, and pro-democracy advocates to raise their voices against any action that threatens Nigeria’s democratic structure. The Bigger Picture: Why This Ban Matters The restriction on political rallies raises concerns over transparency, fairness, and freedom in electoral processes. Political analysts argue that such bans often target opposition parties, creating an uneven playing field that undermines democracy. According to a report by Premium Times, restrictions on political rallies have historically led to political instability and increased voter apathy. Ensuring a free and open political atmosphere is essential for fostering public trust in governance. Conclusion The SDP has taken a firm stand against what it sees as an undemocratic move by the Kogi State Government. With elections on the horizon, the party insists that all stakeholders must work towards ensuring a level playing field for all political participants. The coming weeks will determine whether the state government will heed the calls for democratic fairness or continue with policies that limit political freedoms. For more political updates, read our article on Nigeria’s Electoral Laws and Their Impact on Democracy. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
Key Political Figures Oppose Rivers State Emergency Declaration In a major political development, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi, and ex-Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai have initiated a coalition aimed at challenging President Bola Tinubu’s administration in the 2027 elections. This was confirmed by Atiku during a press conference in Abuja, where he addressed political stakeholders from across the nation. When questioned about the intention behind the gathering, Atiku affirmed that the coalition’s objective is to remove Tinubu from office in the next election cycle. Political Leaders Condemn Tinubu’s Emergency Declaration in Rivers State Atiku, along with other coalition members, has urged Nigerians, particularly members of the National Assembly, to reject Tinubu’s recent declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, labeling it unconstitutional. According to Atiku: “President Tinubu’s proclamation on March 18, 2025, suspending the democratically elected Governor, Deputy Governor, and State House of Assembly, is an outright violation of Nigeria’s Constitution and an attempt to impose autocratic control.” He further stated that Tinubu’s decision undermines democracy and called on Nigerians to resist what he described as an unconstitutional move. Unlawful Dismissal of Elected Officials Atiku highlighted constitutional breaches, stating that the Nigerian Constitution does not empower the President to remove an elected Governor, Deputy Governor, or the State House of Assembly under any circumstances. He referenced Section 188 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which explicitly outlines the legal procedure for removing a Governor through impeachment by the State House of Assembly. Additionally, Atiku condemned the misuse of Section 305, which allows the declaration of a state of emergency only under extreme national security threats. He asserted that Tinubu’s justification for the emergency rule in Rivers State does not meet the constitutional requirements. Judiciary and National Assembly Must Intervene The coalition is calling for immediate action from the judiciary and the National Assembly to overturn Tinubu’s directive. Atiku stressed that any declaration of emergency must be ratified by a two-thirds majority vote in both legislative chambers. If such approval is not obtained, the proclamation automatically loses its validity. “There is no war or crisis in Rivers State to warrant such an extreme measure. Instead of allowing due legal processes to resolve political disputes, the federal government is exploiting the situation for political gain,” he added. Manufactured Crisis for Political Control The coalition alleges that the crisis in Rivers State is a deliberate political maneuver designed to weaken opposition forces ahead of the 2027 elections. Atiku pointed out that similar security challenges in the past did not result in the removal of elected officials. “Even at the peak of insurgency in the North-East, the then-government did not remove governors but provided security solutions. The Rivers State issue is being exploited to serve Tinubu’s interests,” Atiku noted. Call to Action The coalition demands the immediate reinstatement of the elected Rivers State government and urges lawmakers to reject the unconstitutional action. Additionally, Atiku called on civil society organizations, political stakeholders, and citizens to defend Nigeria’s democracy against executive overreach. Historical Context: Niger Delta Unrest Atiku cautioned against political instability in the Niger Delta, a region historically fraught with conflict. He emphasized that previous administrations worked tirelessly to stabilize the area, warning that Tinubu’s actions could reignite tensions and disrupt national economic stability. Political Heavyweights Join the Movement Other key opposition figures present at the press conference included Yunusa Tanko representing Peter Obi, former SGF Babachir Lawal, ex-Kaduna Governor Nasir El-Rufai, and Peter Ahmeh, National Secretary of the Coalition of United Political Parties. Apologies were sent by notable figures such as former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi, former Ekiti Governor Kayode Fayemi, and ex-APC National Chairman Abdullahi Adamu. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
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The Nigerian Senate has debunked widespread claims that Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, was suspended due to allegations of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio. Instead, the legislative body clarified that her suspension resulted from repeated violations of Senate Standing Orders 2023 (As Amended) and a pattern of unparliamentary behavior. Why Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Was Suspended According to Senate Leader Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, Akpoti-Uduaghan was sanctioned for disregarding Sections 6.1 and 6.2 of the Senate’s procedural rules. In a statement released on Saturday, Bamidele refuted media reports insinuating that her suspension stemmed from accusations against Akpabio, labeling such claims as misleading and deliberately deceptive. Following the recommendations of its Committee on Ethics and Privileges, the Senate imposed a six-month suspension on Akpoti-Uduaghan, citing misconduct and her refusal to adhere to assigned seating arrangements during plenary sessions. However, the chamber provided an opportunity for reconsideration, stating that if Akpoti-Uduaghan submits a formal apology, the leadership may lift the suspension before the six-month period elapses. Instead of adhering to Senate protocols, Akpoti-Uduaghan allegedly misled the public by claiming she was targeted for her sexual harassment allegations. Bamidele emphasized that disciplinary action against the senator was solely based on her conduct and non-compliance with established legislative rules. Procedural Flaws in Sexual Harassment Petition Bamidele further disclosed that Akpoti-Uduaghan’s petition on sexual harassment failed to meet the Senate’s procedural requirements for submitting complaints. He reiterated that if she had followed due process, the petition would have been assessed on merit. “The Senate has noted various misleading media reports falsely linking Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension to allegations of sexual harassment. This narrative is entirely incorrect. The senator’s failure to adhere to Senate guidelines led to disciplinary action,” the statement read. The Ethics and Privileges Committee found Akpoti-Uduaghan guilty of breaching Senate Standing Orders, leading to her suspension. The violations cited in the report include: Public Trust and Democratic Implications The Advocacy for Integrity and Rule of Law (AIRL), a civic rights organization, has warned that the Senate’s handling of Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension could erode public trust and jeopardize democratic values. AIRL Chairman, Mohammed Ibrahim Gamawa, stressed the need for legislative restraint, warning that denying Akpoti-Uduaghan’s constituency representation could damage the Senate’s reputation. The group described the ongoing Senate dispute as a “show of shame” that could undermine Nigeria’s democratic institutions. AIRL urged the 10th Senate to prioritize national interest and resolve the conflict through dialogue to prevent long-term political instability. Conclusion As tensions persist, stakeholders continue to call for transparency in governance. The Senate’s actions and responses will determine whether this controversy fades or escalates into a larger political crisis. To maintain institutional credibility, political leaders must act in accordance with democratic principles and constitutional provisions. Premium Times READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
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Former Imo Governor Achike Udenwa on Election Manipulation in Nigeria Achike Udenwa, a former governor of Imo State, has made a shocking revelation about the electoral process in Nigeria. He asserted that politicians with substantial financial resources could manipulate elections by purchasing the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the police, and the army to secure victory. Speaking on State Affairs, a political podcast hosted by Edmund Obilo, Udenwa lamented the decline in Nigeria’s democratic values. He stated that voters no longer scrutinize the backgrounds, integrity, and competence of candidates before supporting them. “Our society has deteriorated to the point where people no longer ask politicians about their past records, character, or leadership abilities. Instead, if a candidate has enough money, they can simply buy their way to victory,” Udenwa said. Elections in Nigeria Are Bought, Not Won – Udenwa When asked whether politicians could influence INEC, security agencies, and voters through financial incentives, Udenwa responded emphatically: “You can buy everybody.” He expressed concerns over the commercialization of elections, warning that if left unchecked, the practice could prevent credible leaders from emerging. He called for electoral reforms to restore fairness and transparency in Nigeria’s democratic system. APC Involvement in PDP Crisis Udenwa, who is a member of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) Board of Trustees, also commented on the ongoing crisis within his party. While acknowledging PDP’s internal challenges, he accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of exacerbating the situation through external interference. “There are external forces working against the PDP, trying to destabilize it from within. We are still battling the crisis, and I believe PDP will survive,” he stated. Although Udenwa refrained from naming individuals allegedly used by the APC to create disunity within the PDP, he insisted that the opposition party was aware of the ruling party’s involvement. Urgent Need for Electoral Reforms The former governor’s revelations underscore the urgent need for electoral reforms in Nigeria. Strengthening democratic institutions, ensuring financial transparency in campaigns, and enforcing stricter penalties for electoral malpractice are essential to safeguarding the country’s democracy. For more insights into Nigeria’s electoral process and reforms, visit Premium Times for in-depth political analysis. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
