Tension has reportedly gripped several parts of Akwa Ibom State following the sudden withdrawal of security operatives assigned to the immediate past governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, over the weekend. According to multiple sources, the former governor’s official security details — including personnel from the Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services (DSS), and other security agencies — were recalled without prior notice. The development has sparked growing concern and speculation among residents and political observers in the state. Mr. Emmanuel, who served as governor of Akwa Ibom State from 2015 to 2023, was known for maintaining a relatively peaceful administration throughout his tenure. However, the abrupt decision to strip him of his security details has raised fears of political tension, especially among his loyalists and members of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the state. A source close to the former governor described the situation as “worrisome,” stating that such action could expose the ex-governor to potential risks. The source emphasized that all former governors, according to standard security protocol, are typically entitled to a minimal level of protection, even after leaving office. Security analysts have expressed concern over what they described as an unusual move, questioning whether the development might be politically motivated or linked to ongoing power tussles within the state. Analysts warn that the situation could heighten anxiety if not properly managed, given the fragile political atmosphere in the Niger Delta region. Meanwhile, residents and political stakeholders are calling on the Akwa Ibom State Government and relevant federal authorities to clarify the circumstances surrounding the withdrawal of the former governor’s security team. Some have also urged the authorities to restore the security arrangement promptly to prevent any potential breach of peace. Efforts to reach the spokespersons for both the state police command and Mr. Udom Emmanuel’s media team proved unsuccessful as of the time of filing this report. Observers believe this unfolding event could test the strength of political alliances in Akwa Ibom and might influence the political direction ahead of the next election cycle if tensions continue to rise.
The Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodimma, has relieved Dr. Julie C. Onyeukwu of her duties as the Chairman of the Imo State Civil Service Commission. This latest decision from the state government marks a significant shake-up in the administrative structure of Imo’s civil service system. Dr. Onyeukwu, who was appointed to oversee the commission’s activities and reforms, has officially been removed from her position by the governor. Although the government has not released an official statement detailing the reasons behind her dismissal, the action has stirred conversations among political observers and civil servants in the state. Analysts believe this move may be tied to the governor’s ongoing efforts to restructure public administration and strengthen accountability within the state workforce. The Civil Service Commission plays a crucial role in ensuring transparency in recruitment, discipline, and promotion of government employees. The removal of its head could potentially lead to new leadership appointments aimed at driving reforms and improving efficiency in the system. Governor Uzodimma, who has been known for making decisive changes within the state’s institutions, is expected to announce a replacement soon. Stakeholders within the Imo civil service sector are closely monitoring developments to understand the impact this decision will have on governance and service delivery. For now, civil servants and the general public await further clarifications from the Imo State Government regarding the dismissal of Dr. Onyeukwu and the next steps in managing the affairs of the Civil Service Commission.
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Elder statesman Chief Edwin Clark has strongly criticized former President Muhammadu Buhari, accusing him of unjustly removing Justice Walter Onnoghen, the former Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), to secure victory in the 2019 presidential election. Allegations Against Buhari and Malami Clark alleged that Buhari, alongside his Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami (SAN), plotted Onnoghen’s suspension to clear the way for alleged electoral manipulations. According to Clark, the removal of Onnoghen was carried out in a manner that violated Nigeria’s constitutional provisions, which require the involvement of both the National Judicial Council (NJC) and the National Assembly in such decisions. In a letter addressed to the current CJN, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, Clark praised the judiciary for eventually acquitting Onnoghen of the false asset declaration charges. He described the case as baseless and a clear example of oppression and political interference. Reflecting on the 2019 Election Clark linked Onnoghen’s removal directly to the 2019 elections, stating that it was a calculated move to suppress dissent and prevent Onnoghen from opposing alleged electoral misconduct. He remarked, “Justice Onnoghen would not have supported the dubious activities planned for the 2019 presidential election. His removal was orchestrated to ensure these plans went unchallenged.” Call for Justice and Accountability The elder statesman expressed hope that President Bola Tinubu’s administration would ensure equal treatment under the law, without protecting “sacred cows.” He emphasized that no one, including former presidents, should be above the law, and criticized the culture of immunity that shields leaders even after leaving office. Historical Irony Clark highlighted the irony of Onnoghen’s predicament, noting that the former CJN had previously delivered a Supreme Court judgment that favored Buhari in a 2011 presidential election case. However, despite his contribution to Buhari’s legal victories, Onnoghen became a target when his integrity posed a threat to Buhari’s political agenda. A National Shame Clark described the events surrounding Onnoghen’s removal as a “disgraceful and barbaric show of shame,” accusing Buhari of stooping to unethical tactics for personal gain. He added, “Nigeria suffered humiliation during this period, and it is only now beginning to recover.” Moving Forward The letter concluded with a call for transparency and adherence to constitutional processes in governance, urging the judiciary and the current administration to uphold justice and restore faith in Nigeria’s democratic institutions. RAED ALSO:
