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Igbo Group Backs Creation of Anioma State, Submits Memo to Senate Committee

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago33 mins

A prominent pan-Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ndi Asuu Bia Social Cultural Organization, has formally endorsed the creation of Anioma State from the existing Delta State, submitting a memorandum to the Senate Committee on the Review of the 1999 Constitution to that effect. The group, which is duly registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), said the proposal seeks to redress decades-long marginalization and disparities in state representation affecting the Igbo ethnic group. This push aligns with the growing momentum behind the Anioma State creation bill, spearheaded by Senator Ned Nwoko, who represents Delta North in the National Assembly. According to reports, Nwoko has already secured the support of over 80 serving senators. In a detailed four-page memorandum jointly signed by Chief Onyenwemadu Kingsley Kainebi (President), Ofochi Benjamin-Atagana, Esq. (Secretary), and Chief Cosmas Agada Chikeobi (Chairman, Local Organising Committee), the group called for specific constitutional amendments. The memo urged the National Assembly to amend Section 3(1) of the 1999 Constitution to include Anioma as Nigeria’s 37th state, as well as First Schedule, Part I, to list its Local Government Areas and Capital City. The group emphasized that the creation of Anioma State would bring much-needed balance to Nigeria’s geopolitical structure, noting that the Southeast zone currently has only five states, while other zones have six or more. According to the group, the name “Anioma” reflects the tribal identity of the dominant Igbo subgroups in the region. They also stressed that calls for the state’s creation date back to Nigeria’s First Republic. “Creating Anioma State will help reunite Anioma people with their kith and kin in the Southeast, bring governance closer to the grassroots, and eliminate long-standing marginalization,” the submission read. The group urged the 10th National Assembly to adopt the proposal in the spirit of equity, fairness, and national unity.

ADC Coalition: Obidients Free to Support Obi, I Have Right to Back Atiku — Dele Momodu

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago03 mins

ABUJA — Media mogul and chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Chief Dele Momodu, has reaffirmed his support for former Vice President Atiku Abubakar as his preferred presidential candidate under the emerging opposition coalition. Speaking during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Monday, Momodu emphasized that his support for Atiku does not invalidate the loyalty of Obidients — supporters of Peter Obi — or any other aspirants within the ADC framework. “My best choice is Atiku, and that’s what I expect Obidients to say about Obi, and Amaechi’s supporters to say about Amaechi,” Momodu said. “This is a game of numbers, and the north remains the most aggrieved region today.” He accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of pushing for a southern candidate to emerge within the opposition, claiming it stems from fear of Atiku’s political strength. “They are afraid of Atiku. That’s why they keep promoting campaigns of calumny against him,” he alleged. Momodu stressed the importance of democracy within the coalition, calling on all aspirants to submit themselves to the party’s primary process. “I have never told anyone not to support Obi. He is a very good friend of mine,” he said. “But let everyone go to the field. Let Obidients campaign for Obi, Atikulates for Atiku, and Amaechi’s supporters for him. Let the people decide.” Reiterating his admiration for Atiku, Momodu said the former vice president remains, in his view, a strong example of the leadership Nigeria needs, especially as the ADC prepares to challenge the APC in the 2027 elections.

Tinubu Vows Fiscal Discipline, Transparency as Lawmakers Demand Tougher Oversight

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago15 mins

By Kamal Yalwa: Abuja, July 8, 2025 President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to prudent fiscal governance and transparent use of public funds, pledging to redirect national resources into critical sectors to restore public trust and drive inclusive development. Speaking through the Minister of State for Finance, Doris Uzoka-Anite, at the National Conference on Public Accounts and Fiscal Governance on Monday, Tinubu defended the controversial fuel subsidy removal, saying it has enabled the government to fund social safety nets, public transportation, and infrastructure. “A subsidy that disproportionately benefited the affluent and encouraged smuggling was neither equitable nor strategic,” the President said. “We are now redirecting those funds into impactful, people-oriented projects.” He also highlighted key reforms under his administration, including new tax laws designed to expand the tax base, simplify compliance, and enhance revenue collection through digitisation. “We are laying the foundation for a self-sustaining economy that gradually moves away from dependence on oil revenues,” Tinubu noted, citing initiatives like the National Credit Guarantee Company to empower SMEs and grow non-oil exports. On monetary policy, Tinubu praised the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) efforts in stabilising the naira and curbing inflation, stressing better coordination between fiscal and monetary authorities to remove structural bottlenecks, especially in the food supply chain. Lawmakers Demand Accountability, Slam Audit Gaps Senate President Godswill Akpabio, represented by Senator Abdul Ningi, called on public agencies to respect legislative oversight, warning that failure to honour audit queries and legislative summons was “an affront to democracy.” “PACs are not just committees; they are constitutional bodies empowered to summon any individual over the use of public funds,” he said. “Non-compliance must stop.” House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, represented by House Leader Julius Ihonvbere, decried the over ₦300bn in unresolved audit infractions, revealing persistent non-compliance among MDAs. “Audit recommendations must be implemented with consequences for mismanagement,” he said, noting that fiscal responsibility cannot exist without enforcement. The Speaker also advocated for full digitisation of public financial management systems, including real-time expenditure tracking, automated audit tools, and wider public access to audit reports to boost transparency and citizen engagement. Public Accounts Committees Demand Reform Senate PAC Chairman, Senator Ahmed Wadada, stressed the need to “reimagine Nigeria’s fiscal framework” in response to declining revenues and rising public mistrust. “Every Naira must count—for education, health, infrastructure, and national stability,” Wadada said, citing poor budget implementation, untracked funds, and weak reporting systems. House PAC Chairman, Bamidele Salam, called for a “complete recalibration” of fiscal governance systems, adding that public service must align with constitutional obligations and measurable results. “Fiscal transparency must not remain an elite exercise—it must become a democratic right,” he said. The conference, themed “Fiscal Governance in Nigeria: Charting a New Course for Transparency and Sustainable Development,” brought together lawmakers, government officials, and audit experts to discuss Nigeria’s path toward financial integrity and institutional accountability. As fiscal reforms continue under the Renewed Hope Agenda, stakeholders agreed that achieving sustainable development would require not only policy reforms but also strict oversight, citizen participation, and measurable service delivery outcomes.

Petrol Price Hits ₦945/Litre at NNPC Stations Amid Soaring Global Oil Prices Petrol Price Hits ₦945/Litre at NNPC Stations Amid Soaring Global Oil Prices

NNPCL Slashes Petrol Price to N910 per Litre in Abuja Following Dangote Refinery’s Adjustment

Fola Badmus3 months ago3 months ago02 mins

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has reduced the pump price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, across its retail outlets in Abuja. News360 Nigeria reports that NNPCL stations at locations such as Zone 6, Kubwa Expressway, and Wuse Zone 4, on Saturday, lowered their pump price from N945 to N910 per litre — a N35 decrease. The move brings significant relief to motorists grappling with high fuel costs in recent weeks. This reduction comes just four days after Dangote Refinery cut its petrol ex-depot price from N880 to N840 per litre, citing a drop in global crude oil prices. Independent marketers have also responded, adjusting their pump prices accordingly. In Abuja, prices have dropped to between N930 and N940 per litre, down from N945–N975, while Lagos motorists now pay around N890, a reduction from the previous N925 per litre. Industry watchers see the development as a potential signal of further fuel price stabilisation, depending on global market trends and domestic supply improvements.

Tinubu Appoints Oladele as Acting Chairman of Federal Character Commission as Dankaka’s Tenure Ends

Fola Badmus3 months ago3 months ago04 mins

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed Hon. Kayode Oladele, the Federal Commissioner representing Ogun State, as the Acting Chairman of the Federal Character Commission (FCC) following the expiration of Dr. Muheebah Dankaka’s five-year tenure. The development was confirmed on Friday and has already drawn commendation from staff members under the banner of the FCC Liberation Group, who had actively protested against the potential reappointment of Dr. Dankaka, citing allegations of mismanagement and poor leadership. Oladele, a respected legal practitioner and former Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Financial Crimes, is seen by many within the Commission as a symbol of integrity and reform. “His appointment is a welcome relief. He brings a wealth of experience, a legacy of principled leadership, and a clear understanding of constitutional governance,” said a spokesperson for the FCC Liberation Group. Staff Protests and Internal Crisis In late June, staff members from both the FCC headquarters and state offices staged coordinated protests, urging President Tinubu not to reappoint Dr. Dankaka. They accused her of presiding over a dysfunctional administration and claimed her leadership had contributed to the erosion of professionalism and morale within the Commission. Amid rising tensions, a counter-protest was staged less than 24 hours before the expiration of Dankaka’s tenure, allegedly sponsored by her loyalists. Protesters, some of whom were described by staff as thugs, gathered outside the FCC office in Abuja in a show of support for her reappointment. The situation reportedly prompted urgent appeals from staff to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, alleging attempts to influence Dankaka’s return through financial inducements. “Allegations are rife that she has paid the sum of N500 million, and this money will be shared among all the offices for her reappointment,” a letter from protesting workers claimed. Swift Police Intervention According to sources at the Commission, police were deployed to prevent the escalation of tensions at the FCC headquarters during the demonstrations. A staff member confirmed that the intervention averted what could have become a violent clash between opposing groups. What’s Next? Hon. Oladele’s appointment is being seen as a fresh start for the FCC, an agency tasked with ensuring equity and fairness in federal appointments and public service recruitment. Many observers expect that his leadership will focus on restoring credibility and effectiveness to the commission’s operations. President Tinubu’s decision to appoint Oladele is viewed by analysts as a calculated move to stabilize the agency and respond to internal staff discontent. Further updates are expected as the Commission transitions to new leadership under Oladele.

Army Chief Urges Youths to Join Military, Promotes Discipline and Patriotism in Sokoto Outreach

Fola Badmus3 months ago3 months ago03 mins

The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has encouraged young Nigerians to consider careers in the Nigerian Army, emphasizing the values of discipline, patriotism, and national service. Speaking during a civil-military relations event held on Friday at Idris Koko Technical College, Farfaru, Sokoto, the Army Chief — represented by Brigadier General A. A. Musa, Commander of the 108 Division Equipment Service — said the initiative aimed to enlighten students about the Army’s nation-building role and inspire youth to pursue positive, purposeful lives. “It is our hope that through this initiative, more young Nigerians will consider a career in the Army and understand the importance of discipline, patriotism, and service to the nation,” General Musa said. The event featured educational talks and interactive sessions designed to bridge the gap between civilians and military personnel. Captain Musa Lemu, Administrative Officer at the 8 Provost Group, spoke on the dangers of criminal associations, urging students to focus on education and avoid peer pressure. Lieutenant E. O. Ojo delivered a presentation on “Civil-Military Relations and Community Interventions by the Nigerian Army,” highlighting the Army’s humanitarian outreach such as: Mallam Musa Koko, Director of Quality Assurance at the Sokoto State Ministry of Science and Technology, who represented the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, applauded the Nigerian Army for the initiative. “Programs like this help our students to envision meaningful futures and inspire them to contribute to national development,” he stated. The event attracted wide participation from students, teachers, Army officers, and government officials, and ended with a lively Q&A session, giving students a chance to engage directly with military personnel and explore opportunities in national service.

Court Orders Senate to Recall Suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan Fines Her N5m for Contempt

Fola Badmus3 months ago3 months ago03 mins

Justice Binta Nyako of the Federal High Court in Abuja has directed the Nigerian Senate to recall Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, declaring her six-month suspension as “unduly excessive” and harmful to the democratic rights of her constituents in Kogi Central. Delivering judgment on Friday, Justice Nyako noted that the lengthy suspension deprived the people of valid representation, and urged the Senate to review its sanction procedures to ensure they are not overly punitive or unconstitutional. Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan had filed a suit against the Clerk of the National Assembly, the Senate, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and Senator Neda Imasuen — Chairman of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions — over what she described as unlawful suspension. However, in a twist, the court also found Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan guilty of contempt for a Facebook post she made on April 27, 2025, which featured a satirical apology to the Senate despite an earlier April 4 court order restraining public commentary on the case. As a result, the court fined the senator N5 million and ordered her to publish a formal apology in two national newspapers within seven days and on her Facebook page within two days. The senator had been suspended on March 6, 2025, following accusations of gross misconduct, including a refusal to sit in her reassigned seat during a plenary session on February 20 — a move the Senate deemed as a violation of its standing rules. Friday’s ruling comes amid Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s legal challenges, including a separate cybercrime charge, for which she is currently out on bail. Ask ChatGPT

AMCON Confirms Sale of Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company for ₦100 Billion Amid Legal Dispute

Fola Badmus3 months ago3 months ago03 mins

Abuja, Nigeria — The Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) has officially confirmed the sale of the Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) for ₦100 billion, marking a major step in the federal government’s ongoing power sector restructuring. The Managing Director/CEO of AMCON, Gbenga Alake, made the disclosure during a media parley with journalists on Thursday, where he revealed that the deal had been finalised and the preferred bidder would soon take over operations of the utility firm. Alake explained that while AMCON met a prior deal upon assuming control of IBEDC, the offer was renegotiated due to concerns over valuation. “When we came in, it had already been sold. But we insisted the price wasn’t right. We asked them to submit a new offer,” Alake stated.“Eventually, we secured almost double the amount initially proposed for the sale.” Despite the successful transaction, the deal has sparked legal controversy, with multiple parties filing lawsuits, including civil society organisations questioning the legitimacy and transparency of the sale. In May, the African Initiative Against Abuse of Public Trust, a civil society group, dragged AMCON, NERC, BPE, and IBEDC before the Federal High Court in Abuja (Suit No: FHC/ABJ/CS/866/2025), alleging the sale of a 60% stake in IBEDC for $62 million was secretive and grossly undervalued. The group claimed that the current transaction could result in a $107 million loss when compared to the $169 million paid for the same stake during the 2013 privatisation exercise. Alake, however, stood by the process, assuring that due diligence was conducted and that AMCON is prepared to defend the transaction in court. “We believe we did the right thing. The sale has been completed. Any issues in court will be addressed,” he said. The sale of IBEDC is part of a broader federal government initiative announced in April 2024 to privatise five electricity distribution companies currently under AMCON or bank control, including Abuja, Benin, Kaduna, and Kano DisCos. This move is aimed at injecting fresh capital and expertise into Nigeria’s struggling power sector, but stakeholders continue to raise concerns about transparency, fair valuation, and regulatory oversight.