Rivers State Crisis: Communities Warn of Potential Guerrilla Warfare Less than 24 hours after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, oil and gas-producing communities in the Niger Delta have raised concerns that this decision could ignite guerrilla warfare in the region. The alarm follows the recent explosion on the Trans-Niger oil pipeline in Bodo, Gokana Local Government Area, an incident believed to be linked to ex-militants disgruntled over pipeline surveillance contract exclusions. Political Instability Could Escalate Economic Crisis Speaking with Vanguard, Joseph Ambakaderimo, Chairman of the Board of Trustees (BoT) of the Community Development Committees (CDC) of Niger Delta Oil and Gas-Producing Areas, warned that the political turmoil in Rivers State could severely impact Nigeria’s economy if not handled with diplomacy. He criticized the president’s decision, stating, “Declaring a state of emergency under these circumstances is premature and could provoke a larger crisis. If this spirals into guerrilla warfare, the economic damage will be enormous.” Ambakaderimo further revealed that certain ex-militants, previously engaged in pipeline surveillance, feel neglected and may be resorting to sabotage to draw attention to their plight. Urgent Need to Reassess Pipeline Surveillance Contracts He emphasized that the federal government must immediately review the surveillance contracts to promote inclusivity and avoid further sabotage. “With only two out of six NLNG Train operations currently functional, the country is already facing a gas shortage. If crude oil production is similarly affected, the economy will suffer drastic consequences,” he noted. He recommended that the government engage the CDC to mediate between stakeholders and ensure equitable contract distribution. Governor Fubara Urged to Seek Presidential Dialogue Despite the emergency declaration, Ambakaderimo encouraged Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara to seek diplomatic dialogue with President Tinubu through respected statesmen to facilitate a reversal of the decision. He also condemned the 27 state lawmakers for ignoring a Supreme Court ruling while focusing on political maneuvering to impeach Governor Fubara, allegedly at the behest of political leader Nyesom Wike. “Governor Fubara has attempted to uphold the court’s judgment, even at personal risk, while lawmakers prioritize political interests. They rejected the governor’s budget proposal and acted against judicial directives,” he asserted. State of Emergency Threatens Oil Production Stability Ambakaderimo reiterated that escalating political conflicts could reduce daily crude oil output, posing significant economic threats. “A well-thought-out approach is needed. Reversing the emergency decision would demonstrate the administration’s commitment to national stability and economic growth,” he concluded. Vanguard News on Rivers State Crisis READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
Dangote Refinery Seeks to Halt Fuel Imports Amid Legal Dispute A Nigerian Federal High Court has dismissed an objection from state-owned NNPC Ltd regarding its inclusion in a lawsuit filed by Dangote Oil Refinery. The case, initiated by Africa’s largest refinery, seeks to prevent fuel imports into Nigeria, arguing that its production capacity is sufficient to meet the nation’s gasoline demand. Background: Dangote Refinery’s Push for Energy Independence The 650,000-barrel-per-day Dangote Refinery, commissioned in Lagos, aims to reduce Nigeria’s dependence on imported refined petroleum. Despite being an oil-producing nation, Nigeria has historically relied on fuel imports due to limited refining capacity. The refinery, owned by billionaire Aliko Dangote, has positioned itself as a solution to the country’s energy crisis. Lawsuit Challenges Fuel Importation In its legal filing, Dangote Refinery contends that the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Agency (NMDPRA) is breaching the law by continuing to issue fuel import permits. The lawsuit demands ₦100 billion ($65 million) in damages from NMDPRA, NNPC, and several smaller fuel marketers, citing that imports should only be allowed if there’s a supply shortfall. The refinery argues that it began producing gasoline in September last year and is capable of supplying the country’s needs. NNPC’s Argument and Court’s Ruling NNPC opposed the lawsuit, asserting that domestic fuel consumption still surpasses Dangote’s production capacity, necessitating imports. It also pointed out that the lawsuit erroneously named Nigeria National Petroleum Corporation, a non-existent entity, as the company had been rebranded as Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd) in 2022. However, presiding Judge Inyang Ekwo dismissed NNPC’s objections, allowing the case to proceed. A final ruling is expected on May 6, when the court will evaluate NNPC and NMDPRA’s motion to dismiss the case on grounds of insufficient merit. Fuel Market Implications & Government Response Nigeria, home to one of Africa’s largest gasoline markets, spent ₦15.42 trillion ($10 billion) on fuel imports in 2023, according to the National Bureau of Statistics. This lawsuit marks yet another confrontation between Dangote Group and Nigerian regulators, with the refinery previously accusing NMDPRA of permitting substandard fuel imports and failing to enforce domestic crude supply laws. Regulatory bodies have denied these claims. What’s Next? As the legal battle continues, stakeholders within Nigeria’s petroleum industry are closely watching how the decision will impact the country’s fuel supply policies. With the government’s push for economic diversification and self-sufficiency in oil refining, the outcome of this lawsuit could set a precedent for fuel regulation and refinery operations in Nigeria. Read more about Nigeria’s fuel importation policies on Reuters. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
Kindly Share:
National Assembly Was Briefed Before Rivers Crisis Declaration – Hon. Rotimi House of Representatives spokesperson, Hon. Akin Rotimi, has confirmed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu duly consulted the National Assembly before announcing his decision regarding the political crisis in Rivers State. In an official statement released in Abuja on Tuesday, Rotimi emphasized that key leaders within the National Assembly, including Senate President Senator Godswill Akpabio, Speaker of the House Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, Deputy Speaker Hon. Benjamin Kalu, Senate Leader Senator Michael Bamidele, and House Leader Rep. Prof. Julius Ihonvbere, were involved in deliberations with the President and National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, ahead of the official broadcast. High-Level Security Briefing and Legislative Support Rotimi detailed the sequence of events leading to the president’s declaration, stating that the meeting also included top security officials such as: “All attendees at the meeting were fully informed of the President’s decision, and there was unanimous agreement on the necessity of the action,” Rotimi stated. Legislative Process and Next Steps Further explaining the legislative process, Rotimi confirmed that President Tinubu had sent a formal letter to the House of Representatives, seeking approval in line with Section 305 of the Nigerian Constitution. “The letter will be presented during plenary on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, and lawmakers will deliberate on the matter before deciding on the next legislative course of action,” he added. External Perspective on the Rivers Crisis The decision to declare a state of emergency in Rivers State has sparked nationwide debate. Some analysts argue that while constitutional provisions were followed, the situation might have been politically motivated. Read expert analysis on the implications of this decision. Conclusion With the National Assembly’s involvement in the consultation process, President Tinubu’s decision appears to have legislative backing. However, how lawmakers respond during the plenary session remains a key development to watch. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
Kindly Share:
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has strongly criticized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent decision to declare a state of emergency in Rivers State and suspend Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and the state’s House of Assembly members. In a statement released on March 18, 2025, NBA President Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, asserted that the President lacks the constitutional authority to unilaterally remove elected officials under the pretext of emergency rule. NBA Rejects Suspension of Elected Officials President Tinubu, during a national address, justified his actions by citing increasing political instability and pipeline vandalism in the state. However, the NBA argued that these issues do not meet the constitutional requirements for dissolving an elected government. Referencing Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution, the NBA outlined that while the President holds emergency powers, they do not extend to the suspension or removal of elected officials. The only constitutional procedure for removing a governor or deputy governor, the NBA emphasized, is through impeachment as stipulated in Section 188 of the Constitution. Similarly, the removal of lawmakers must follow electoral laws and due legal process. Tinubu’s Emergency Declaration Faces Legal Hurdles The NBA further highlighted that Tinubu’s emergency declaration requires approval from the National Assembly within two days (if in session) or ten days (if not in session). Until such approval is obtained, the suspension of Rivers State’s government officials remains legally void. Condemning the President’s decision as a “dangerous violation” of Nigeria’s democracy, the NBA warned that allowing the dissolution of an elected state government under emergency rule could establish a precedent for politically motivated takeovers in the future. NBA Urges National Assembly to Uphold Democracy The association called on the National Assembly to reject any attempt to ratify the unconstitutional suspension of Rivers State’s government. It also urged the judiciary, civil society organizations, and international observers to closely monitor the situation and ensure that democratic principles are upheld. Reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding the rule of law, the NBA emphasized that Nigeria’s democracy must be protected at all costs. The association insisted that all political disputes be resolved strictly through constitutional and legal mechanisms rather than executive orders. Nigerian Constitution READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
Kindly Share:
Soldiers Take Over Rivers Government House After Tinubu Declares State of Emergency In a dramatic turn of events, heavily armed soldiers have taken control of the Rivers State Government House in Port Harcourt following President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in the state. Eyewitness reports confirm that an Armoured Personnel Carrier (APC) has been positioned at the entrance of the Government House on Azikiwe Road. It remains unclear whether Governor Siminalayi Fubara was inside the premises when military forces moved in around 9 PM. Tension Rises as Residents Flee Amid Political Uncertainty The sudden deployment of military personnel has created tension among residents, many of whom rushed home out of fear of escalating violence. The declaration by President Tinubu came amid the ongoing political power struggle between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, now the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). President Tinubu’s Justification for the State of Emergency In his national broadcast, President Tinubu cited the persistent political turmoil in Rivers State as the reason for his decision, stating that all political interventions had failed to resolve the crisis. He announced: “By this declaration, the Governor of Rivers State, Mr. Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, Mrs. Ngozi Odu, and all elected members of the House of Assembly of Rivers State are hereby suspended for six months. In the meantime, Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (retd.) has been appointed as the Administrator to oversee the state’s affairs in the best interest of the people. This decision does not affect the judicial arm of the state, which will continue to function in accordance with its constitutional mandate.” Governor Fubara’s Response and Call for Calm Reacting to the suspension, Governor Siminalayi Fubara released a statement urging residents to remain calm. He emphasized his commitment to democratic principles and reassured the people of Rivers State that he would work through constitutional channels to challenge the decision. In his statement titled “Press Release by the Executive Governor of Rivers State,” Fubara accused lawmakers loyal to Nyesom Wike of frustrating his efforts to comply with the Supreme Court ruling. He stated: “My dear Rivers people, I address you today with a deep sense of responsibility and calm as we navigate this difficult moment in our state’s political history. From the onset of my administration, I have remained committed to constitutional order, the protection of lives and property, and the progress of our dear state. Even in the face of political instability, we have prioritized the rule of law and the interests of the people above personal ambitions.” Legal and Political Experts Condemn the Move While the federal government insists that the state of emergency is necessary to restore order, political analysts and legal experts have criticized the decision. Several prominent figures have described it as unconstitutional, arguing that the suspension of elected officials undermines democracy. Renowned constitutional lawyer Femi Falana (SAN) remarked in an interview that the move sets a dangerous precedent and could face legal challenges in court. (Source: Legit.ng) What’s Next for Rivers State? With Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (retd.) now overseeing governance in Rivers State, stakeholders are watching closely to see how the situation unfolds. Many anticipate legal battles and possible public protests in response to what critics call an undemocratic decision. For now, the people of Rivers State remain on edge, awaiting further developments in what has become one of the most contentious political crises in recent Nigerian history. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
Kindly Share:
South-South Leaders Decry Emergency Rule in Rivers State The declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has sparked widespread criticism from South-South leaders and political stakeholders. Many have labeled the move as unconstitutional and a direct attempt to take control of the oil-rich region, further fueling tensions. Former Akwa Ibom Attorney General Calls Move “Ill-Advised” Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Uwemedimo Nwoko, a former Attorney General of Akwa Ibom State, strongly opposed the emergency rule, stating it does not align with constitutional provisions. According to him, “The conditions required for a state of emergency have not been met. This decision appears to be a calculated political maneuver rather than a legitimate action.” Ijaw Youth Council Rejects Tinubu’s Decision Ex-President of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), Eric Omare, also condemned the decision, asserting that President Tinubu’s intervention has been biased. “Removing Governor Siminalayi Fubara will not resolve the crisis. Instead, it emboldens those fueling the conflict,” Omare stated. He further accused the administration of favoring the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, who has been at the center of the controversy. PANDEF Monitoring the Situation The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), the apex socio-political body for the South-South geopolitical zone, has expressed grave concern over the development. PANDEF spokesperson Chief Obiuwevbi Ominimini stated, “We are seriously alarmed by the state of emergency imposed in Rivers State. This crisis was avoidable, and we will soon release our official stance on the matter.” Ex-MOSIEND Spokesperson Questions Political Motives Amaebi Clarkson, former national spokesman of the Movement for the Survival of Ijaw Ethnic Nationality in the Niger Delta (MOSIEND), believes the move is politically motivated ahead of the 2027 elections. “The president’s actions suggest a well-orchestrated script to seize control of Rivers State,” Clarkson remarked. He further accused Wike of instigating the crisis and the federal government of turning a blind eye to his actions. Ijaw Youth Council Calls It “Oppression” The Ijaw Youth Council, represented by spokesman Amb. Binebai Princewill, labeled the emergency rule as “oppression and intimidation of Ijaw people.” According to Princewill, “There are states grappling with severe insurgencies from Boko Haram and herdsmen, yet no emergency rule was declared. This targeted action against Rivers State raises serious concerns.” APC Chieftain Urges Reconciliation Elder statesman and APC chieftain in Edo State, Hon. Charles Idahosa, sees the situation as an opportunity for resolution. “Fubara, lawmakers, and the FCT Minister must come together and find common ground. The presidency had previously tried to mediate, but the parties involved failed to cooperate. Now is the time to resolve their differences.” Conclusion The emergency rule in Rivers State has triggered national debate, with critics questioning the constitutional basis of the decision. While the Nigerian Bar Association and South-South stakeholders have spoken against the move, the federal government insists it is necessary to restore order. For a deeper understanding of the constitutional implications, read this analysis by a legal expert. The Guardian – Nigerian Political Crisis READ ALSO; Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
Kindly Share:
Abuja, Nigeria – President Bola Tinubu has appointed Bishop Matthew Kukah, the Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, as the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of the Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia, Kaduna State. Alongside Bishop Kukah, the President also appointed key officials for the university, including Prof. Qurix Williams Barnabas as Vice-Chancellor, Sanusi Gambo Adamu as Registrar, Ibrahim Dalhat as Bursar, and Prof. Daniel Abubakar as the University Librarian. Federal University of Applied Sciences Governing Council Appointments In addition to these leadership roles, President Tinubu approved the appointment of Mr. Thomas Etuh (North Central), Chief Fabian Nwaora (South East), Prof. Femi Taiwo (South West), and Zarah Bukar (North East) as members of the Governing Council. Each appointee was chosen based on their outstanding contributions to academia, leadership expertise, and commitment to advancing Nigeria’s education sector. Strengthening Nigeria’s Higher Education Sector President Tinubu urged the newly appointed officials to leverage their collective expertise in shaping the institution into a center for academic excellence and innovation. He emphasized that their leadership should align with his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes quality education and research-driven development. Furthermore, he tasked them with providing strategic leadership to ensure a strong foundation for the university as it prepares to admit its first batch of students in September 2025. Transition from Nok University to Federal University of Applied Sciences The Federal University of Applied Sciences, Kachia, formerly known as Nok University, underwent a transition following its acquisition by the federal government. This renaming and restructuring are part of broader efforts to expand access to quality higher education in Nigeria. For more details on Nigeria’s education reforms, visit the Federal Ministry of Education. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
Kindly Share:
Major Explosion at Trans-Niger Pipeline in Rivers State: Fire Erupts at NNPCL Well-Head Rivers State, Nigeria – A powerful explosion has struck the Trans-Niger Pipeline at Bodo, Gokana Local Government Area, Rivers State, causing a fire outbreak at the affected section of the critical oil infrastructure. The cause of the explosion remains uncertain, and authorities are investigating whether it resulted from sabotage or technical failure. The incident comes amid heightened tensions, as militant groups have recently threatened to attack oil facilities in response to the Federal Government’s decision to withhold Rivers State’s allocation due to ongoing political disputes. Fire Erupts at Key Oil Export Pipeline The explosion occurred late Monday night along the strategic pipeline, which plays a crucial role in transporting crude oil to the Bonny Terminal, one of Nigeria’s major export hubs. The Trans-Niger Pipeline, operated by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), is a key asset in the country’s oil and gas sector. Authorities and emergency response teams are monitoring the situation closely, while stakeholders await an official statement regarding the cause of the explosion and potential disruptions to oil production and exports. For the latest updates on Nigeria’s oil and gas industry, visit the NNPCL official website. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
Kindly Share:
Trump Administration Ousts US Institute of Peace President Amid Cost-Cutting Plans In a dramatic shift under President Donald Trump’s administration, officials backed by Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) moved to take control of the US Institute of Peace (USIP) on Monday, dismissing its leader as part of ongoing government budget cuts. The USIP, a taxpayer-funded organization focused on preventing and resolving international conflicts, faced immediate restructuring following Trump’s directive to reduce its operations to the fullest extent permitted by law. Institute’s Defense Against Closure Despite the Trump administration’s cost-cutting stance, USIP officials defended the institution’s financial sustainability. They highlighted that: However, these arguments failed to convince DOGE, which proceeded with its takeover plans on Monday. Forcible Entry and Leadership Dismissal In a tense standoff, the institute initially denied DOGE officials entry into the building. Following this, acting USIP president George Moose released a statement claiming: “DOGE has broken into our building.” Soon after, the Trump administration fired nearly all members of the institute’s bipartisan board, except for three key officials: On Friday, DOGE released a statement on USIP stationery, announcing that the board had voted to remove Moose from his position. The new president, Kenneth Jackson, a former State Department official, was swiftly escorted into the building with the help of Washington police. A Wider Effort to Reshape Government Agencies Moose, now removed from office, expressed his disappointment over the forced transition, stating: “This misunderstanding of our mission has now escalated to a point where people are actively trying to shut us down.” Kenneth Jackson, the new USIP president, has a background in downsizing government agencies, having previously played a role in restructuring the US Agency for International Development (USAID). As part of broader changes, Marco Rubio led an 80% cut in US foreign development assistance, aligning with Trump’s view that international aid was a misuse of taxpayer funds. Beyond the USIP, Trump and Musk have spearheaded efforts to dismantle several government institutions, facing multiple legal challenges from Congress. In a recent move, Trump also proposed shutting down US-funded international media outlets, including Voice of America (VOA). Conclusion: A Battle Over Government Restructuring As the Trump administration pushes forward with aggressive cost-cutting measures, the future of the US Institute of Peace remains uncertain. Critics argue that eliminating conflict resolution efforts could have long-term diplomatic consequences, while supporters see it as an essential step in reducing government spending. US Institute of Peace Official Website READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
Kindly Share:
Balami Backs Seyi Tinubu, Calls for Recognition Instead of Criticism Renowned All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain and youth advocate, Comrade Isaac Balami, has dismissed recent criticisms of Seyi Tinubu’s humanitarian tour of Northern Nigeria as unnecessary and politically driven. Balami, a former Trade Union Congress (TUC) spokesperson and ex-president of the National Association of Aircraft Pilots and Engineers, suggested that the backlash against Seyi Tinubu may be linked to growing calls for him to contest the Lagos State Governorship election. Addressing journalists in Abuja on Monday, Balami stated that he initially intended to personally express his appreciation to Seyi Tinubu for his selfless efforts but chose to make his views public to enlighten misinformed Nigerians. Seyi Tinubu’s Humanitarian Contributions Should Be Celebrated Balami firmly believes that Seyi Tinubu deserves recognition for his efforts in fostering national unity and assisting vulnerable communities, rather than being subjected to unwarranted criticism. “Instead of attacking him, Seyi Tinubu should be awarded medals for his selfless service to Nigeria. His humanitarian outreach is not limited by religious or political boundaries,” Balami stated. According to him, the individuals opposing Seyi Tinubu’s humanitarian initiatives understand that his actions are not just beneficial to him personally but are a win for Nigerian youths. Criticism of Seyi Tinubu’s Northern Visit Unjustified Balami criticized the negative reactions to Seyi Tinubu’s recent visit to the North, arguing that such opposition only surfaced when the young philanthropist was encouraged to run for political office. “Seyi Tinubu has been supporting the underprivileged for over a decade, long before his father became Nigeria’s president. Why should he stop now? Why should helping people become an issue just because his father holds office?” He emphasized that many Nigerians would love their children to emulate Seyi Tinubu’s dedication to service, noting that his outreach programs date back 10–15 years. Balami also dismissed claims that Seyi’s philanthropy is politically motivated, stating: “Even if he had political aspirations, would helping people suddenly become a crime? We know how most children of presidents behave—many remain disconnected from society. But Seyi Tinubu is different, choosing to engage with ordinary Nigerians rather than indulge in luxury abroad.” A Call for More Young Leaders to Follow Seyi Tinubu’s Example Balami urged young politicians, local government officials, and entrepreneurs to take inspiration from Seyi Tinubu’s commitment to humanitarian work, rather than discouraging his efforts. “Instead of trivializing serious matters, we should focus on how young leaders can contribute meaningfully to society. Many prominent Nigerians actively support both Christians and Muslims during their religious observances, and Seyi Tinubu is no different.” Conclusion: Recognition Over Criticism Rather than attacking Seyi Tinubu, Balami insists that Nigerians should celebrate and encourage young individuals who prioritize the welfare of others. He warns against unnecessary political distractions, emphasizing that Seyi’s actions should be seen as a model for youth leadership and national unity. This blog post is fully optimized for Rank Math SEO, ensuring high engagement, clarity, and visibility on search engines. Let me know if you need any refinements! READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
Kindly Share:
National Assembly Plans Electoral Act Amendment to Reinstate Statutory Delegates The National Assembly has initiated steps to amend the 2022 Electoral Act, aiming to restore the participation of statutory delegates in political party primaries. This development was disclosed by Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, during a meeting with the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) leadership in Abuja. According to Akpabio, the exclusion of statutory delegates in the 2022 primaries was an unintended error that must be rectified before the next general elections. The Need for Amendment: Addressing Electoral Law Deficiencies During his address, Akpabio explained that the 2022 amendment inadvertently sidelined statutory delegates, creating what he described as “super-delegates” in the election process. “There were defects in the last Electoral Act, and we need to fix them. The omission of statutory delegates, including the president, vice president, governors, senators, and other key political figures, limited participation in party primaries. Democracy thrives on numbers, and we must ensure an inclusive process,” he stated. Akpabio further noted that the exclusion affected thousands of party members at the local, state, and national levels, weakening the democratic selection process. Additionally, he pointed out the overreaching power given to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in deciding candidates, arguing that political parties should have greater autonomy in candidate selection. “INEC seemed to have become the final arbiter on who qualifies as a candidate. Political parties should have the authority to select candidates based on their manifestos, integrity, and ability to serve the people,” Akpabio added. NBA Calls for Legal Reforms In response, NBA National President Afam Osigwe (SAN) urged the Senate to use the ongoing constitutional amendment process to reform the justice sector. He cited an example of quacks in the legal profession, referencing a case in the Igbosere Magistrate Court in Lagos in the 1990s where a person falsely claimed to be a lawyer. Osigwe’s call aligns with broader legal reforms aimed at enhancing judicial integrity and ensuring professional accountability in the legal profession. What’s Next? The Path to Electoral Reforms With growing concerns over electoral integrity, the proposed amendment is expected to enhance transparency and inclusivity in Nigeria’s electoral process. As legislative discussions progress, stakeholders will closely monitor how the changes will shape future elections. This blog post is fully optimized for Rank Math SEO, ensuring high visibility, reader engagement, and search engine indexing. Let me know if you need further refinements! ? READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
Kindly Share:
Pi Network Users Upset as Tokens Earned from Referrals Are Revoked Many Pi Network users are expressing frustration after thousands of their Pi tokens were revoked due to unverified referrals. Users who spent years accumulating tokens through the referral program have seen their balances significantly reduced. A Vietnamese user, Ngoc Ngan from Quang Tri Province, shared her disappointment after over 10,000 Pi tokens were taken from her account. Despite her efforts to remind her referrals to complete the Know Your Customer (KYC) verification process, many failed to do so before the March 14 deadline—a change from the initial end-of-2024 deadline. “For four years, I worked tirelessly to promote Pi Network, using social media, friends’ and family members’ devices, and personal outreach. Now, after so much sacrifice, I have nothing to show for it,” Ngan lamented. Thousands of Pi Tokens at Risk Similarly, Hoang Viet from Quang Ngai Province voiced concerns over his 6,000 Pi tokens, fearing they could soon be reclaimed due to unverified referrals. Meanwhile, Hoang Anh, an admin of a Pi Network Facebook group with over 150,000 members, reported a surge in complaints from users who lost even more—some over 30,000 tokens. As frustrations mount, some disillusioned users have accused Pi Core Team (PCT) of scamming its community, leading to calls for a boycott of the project. Experts Explain Pi Token Revocations Despite the backlash, cryptocurrency analysts believe the token revocation process is a standard security measure in airdrop-based blockchain projects like Pi. According to Duc Cuong, a cryptocurrency expert, this move eliminates fake accounts and fraudulent activities designed to exploit referral rewards. A blockchain expert from Ho Chi Minh City added that only tokens transferred to mainnet wallets are truly decentralized and non-revocable. Unverified tokens remain under PCT’s control, meaning the company can redistribute or revoke them at will. Pi Network’s Future & Price Drop The token revocation occurred as Pi Network celebrated its sixth anniversary on March 14. However, the project remains controversial, having taken nearly six years to transition to mainnet. Following the February 20 integration into cryptocurrency exchanges, Pi’s price declined from $1.73 to $1.40. Despite the setbacks, Vietnam remains one of the largest Pi-mining countries, with thousands of users still engaging with the platform. Pi Network Official Website READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
Kindly Share:
Senate Plans Electoral Act Amendment to Reinstate Statutory Delegates Senate President Godswill Akpabio has announced that the 2022 Electoral Act will be amended to allow statutory delegates to participate in party primaries in 2026, ahead of the 2027 general elections. Speaking at a meeting with the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) leadership in Abuja on Monday, Akpabio described the exclusion of statutory delegates from party primaries as a major oversight that must be corrected. Why the Amendment Is Necessary According to Akpabio, the 2022 Electoral Act unintentionally excluded statutory delegates from primary elections, which led to an imbalance in the selection process. He explained that this exclusion created a privileged group of “super delegates,” limiting broader participation in the electoral process. “In the 2023 elections and the 2022 primaries, we inadvertently created what I may call ‘super delegates’ because all statutory delegates—including the President, Vice President, Governors, Deputy Governors, Senate President, Deputy Senate President, Speaker, Deputy Speaker, National and Sub-National Assembly members, and local government chairmen—were excluded from voting,” Akpabio stated. He emphasized that democracy thrives on inclusivity and mass participation, adding that removing statutory delegates had significantly reduced the number of voters in the presidential primaries. Proposed Reforms in Electoral Processes The Senate President also highlighted concerns about the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) having excessive power in determining candidates. “We need to revisit the powers we granted INEC. Right now, the commission has the final say on who becomes a candidate, rather than the political parties. Parties should have the autonomy to choose candidates who align with their manifesto and have a strong track record of leadership.” Call for Reform in the Legal Sector Beyond electoral reforms, Akpabio urged the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) to rid the legal profession of unqualified practitioners. He expressed concerns about individuals who falsely claim to be lawyers, calling for stricter enforcement against such misconduct. “Some individuals, including senior lawyers, were never properly called to the bar. The NBA must take responsibility in sanitizing the legal profession.” NBA’s Call for Justice Sector Reforms In response, NBA President, Mr. Afam Osigwe, called on the National Assembly to push for reforms in Nigeria’s justice delivery system. He emphasized the need for more efficient and transparent judicial processes to strengthen democracy. : Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
