Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodinma, has renewed the call for the constitutional recognition of traditional rulers in Nigeria, emphasizing the importance of their roles in ensuring community harmony, security, and national unity. According to the governor, giving legal backing to traditional institutions will not only strengthen the authority of these rulers but also enhance their capacity to perform their duties effectively in various communities across the country. Governor Uzodinma highlighted that the call for constitutional inclusion is not a matter of privilege but an essential necessity. He explained that traditional leaders have long been instrumental in maintaining peace, promoting cultural values, resolving disputes, and complementing government efforts at the grassroots level. Their contribution, he noted, has been crucial to the stability and unity of many local communities, which makes their formal recognition imperative. Speaking further, Uzodinma noted that traditional rulers play a pivotal role in bridging the gap between the government and the people, especially in rural areas where their influence remains deeply rooted. He expressed confidence that their inclusion in the Nigerian Constitution would empower them with clearer responsibilities and legal authority to participate in governance and security matters within their jurisdictions. The governor also appealed to the National Assembly and relevant constitutional review committees to consider the long-standing request for this recognition. According to him, many of the challenges facing local communities — such as insecurity, social unrest, and communal conflicts — could be better managed if traditional rulers are officially assigned constitutional responsibilities and supported by law. Uzodinma reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to upholding traditional institutions in Imo State, describing them as the custodians of culture and agents of unity. He stressed that empowering traditional rulers constitutionally would promote cooperation between local authorities and the state government, leading to a more stable and inclusive governance system.
Alhaji Sani Abdullahi Shinkafi, a former governorship aspirant in Zamfara State and a prominent member of the Bola Tinubu/Kashim Shettima Presidential Campaign Council 2023, has firmly rejected the growing calls for a state of emergency in the state. Speaking on behalf of the Patriots for the Advancement of Peace and Social Development, Shinkafi alleged that these calls are politically motivated and backed by unsuccessful politicians who are attempting to destabilize the current administration. Political Motives Behind Emergency Calls According to Shinkafi, the individuals pushing for emergency measures are doing so with the intention to grab power through unconstitutional means, driven by greed and desperation to loot state resources. “These expired politicians are hallucinating about power,” Shinkafi stated. “They have no regard for the Constitution and are attempting to mislead the public and disrupt progress in Zamfara.” Constitutional Misunderstanding and Democratic Norms Shinkafi emphasized that Nigeria’s Constitution clearly outlines the conditions required for removing an elected governor or imposing a state of emergency. He condemned any suggestion of appointing a sole administrator as an undemocratic practice. He further stated: “Zamfara does not qualify for any constitutional basis to impose a state of emergency. Calls for such action are merely attempts to overheat the polity and distract the public.” For reference, Nigeria’s constitutional guidelines regarding a state of emergency can be reviewed here. Support for Governor Dauda Lawal Shinkafi praised Governor Dauda Lawal’s leadership, highlighting improvements in security, economic activity, and infrastructure since he assumed office on May 29, 2023. “Governor Lawal has made remarkable strides in fighting banditry, supported by the President and our security forces,” Shinkafi noted. “Public safety has improved, and citizens now enjoy better services and a functioning economy.” Zamfara’s Progress under Lawal’s Administration The administration has also implemented the ₦70,000 minimum wage for civil servants and promised to address pending issues affecting senior civil service wages. These are key components of Governor Lawal’s Rescue Mission agenda, aimed at restoring dignity and prosperity to the people of Zamfara. If you’re curious about Governor Lawal’s Rescue Mission and governance strategy, check out our internal report: Governor Dauda Lawal’s Vision for a Secure and Prosperous Zamfara A Call for Political Maturity and Patriotism Shinkafi urged politicians in Zamfara to prioritize development and peace over politics, especially as the next general elections in 2027 are still years away. “This is not the time for politicking. It’s a time for unity, growth, and national interest,” he said. “Let’s build a better Zamfara and preserve our democracy.” Conclusion: Upholding Democracy and Rejecting Disruption Shinkafi’s firm stance reflects a broader call to uphold democratic values and protect constitutional integrity in Nigeria. He urges President Bola Tinubu and the Nigerian public to ignore those seeking to undermine peace and progress in Zamfara State. 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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Renowned human rights lawyer, Femi Falana (SAN), has taken legal action against Oba Semiu Ogunjobi, the Olorile of Orile Ifo, seeking N200 million in damages over an alleged human rights violation. The lawsuit, filed at the High Court of Ogun State, Ota, aims to uphold the fundamental rights of Elder Areola Abraham Love JP and demands a public apology in The Punch, Vanguard, and Nigerian Tribune newspapers. Legal Action Against Oba Ogunjobi The lawsuit, dated March 7, 2025, accuses Oba Ogunjobi and his associates of assaulting Elder Areola, a 73-year-old man, in a widely circulated video. The footage, which sparked public outrage, shows Elder Areola kneeling beside a road while being physically attacked. Following the viral incident, the Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR) sought Falana’s intervention, leading to this high-profile case. Government’s Response and Legal Implications In response to public condemnation, the Ogun State Government suspended Oba Ogunjobi for six months and later arraigned him before a Magistrate Court on charges of assault. According to the court filings, Falana argues that: Falana’s Legal Demands The lawsuit seeks the following: Potential Legal Precedent This case is expected to set a legal benchmark for human rights protection in Nigeria, emphasizing the accountability of traditional rulers. For more insights into human rights law in Nigeria, refer to Amnesty International’s report on human rights violations. READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
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A coalition of civil society organizations (CSOs) has raised serious allegations against Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, a company led by Chief Oweizidei Thomas Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo. The security outfit is accused of human rights violations, torture, and the unlawful operation of detention centers in the Niger Delta region. CSOs Demand Investigation into Tantita Security’s Activities During a press conference on Wednesday, following a peaceful protest at Shoprite, Alausa, Lagos, the CSOs released a statement signed by their Convener, Comrade Abe Emmanuel. The coalition urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to take immediate action by investigating these allegations to prevent further human rights abuses. The CSOs acknowledged the Tinubu administration’s focus on economic recovery, governance reforms, and the protection of fundamental rights since assuming office. They emphasized that ensuring the rule of law and due process remains crucial to maintaining public trust in government policies. Allegations of Illegal Detentions and Human Rights Violations Human rights advocacy groups claim to have received multiple reports of unlawful arrests, torture, and detentions allegedly carried out by Tantita Security Services. According to the CSOs, the security firm has been operating outside its legal jurisdiction, detaining innocent citizens under questionable circumstances. One particular case involved Jolomi Abechukwu and his friend Bade, who were reportedly apprehended on December 2, 2024. The duo was allegedly held at a detention facility in Oporoza before being released in January 2025. Such incidents, according to the coalition, illustrate a worrying trend of extrajudicial actions by the private security firm. Violation of Constitutional Rights and International Human Rights Laws The coalition pointed out that Tantita Security’s reported activities breach Chapter IV of the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria (as amended) and the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights. They stressed that a pipeline surveillance contract does not empower the security firm to conduct arrests and detentions—duties that legally fall under the jurisdiction of the country’s official security agencies. The CSOs called on the federal government and international human rights organizations to intervene, warning that unchecked violations could expose Niger Delta youths to continued abuse. The coalition also expressed confidence that the Tinubu-led administration, known for its commitment to due process, would not deliberately permit such unconstitutional actions. Call for Accountability and Government Intervention In light of these allegations, the CSOs have urged President Tinubu to order a thorough investigation into Tantita Security Services. They demand measures to protect innocent citizens and ensure accountability for any rights violations committed by the private security firm. Reliable Sources and Further Reading For more insights on human rights laws and security policies in Nigeria, refer to the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the Nigeria Human Rights Commission. African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
