Category: Local

Abuja, Nigeria – June 15, 2025 — The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has again summoned Sanusi Bature Dawakin-Tofa, spokesperson to Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, to appear before the Force Headquarters over allegations of criminal defamation, impersonation, and conduct likely to cause a breach of peace. According to a police summons dated May 23, 2025, with file number CR/3000/IGP-SEC/MU/ADM/14/ABJ/VOL 118/57, Dawakin-Tofa is expected to report to SP Mojirode B. Obisiji of the IGP Monitoring Unit at Louis Edet House, Abuja, by 12:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 29, 2025. The letter, signed by Deputy Commissioner of Police Akin Fakorede, head of the IGP Monitoring Unit, stated that the police are investigating a case in which Dawakin-Tofa “featured prominently.” Allegations Linked to Ganduje Suspension The allegations are believed to be connected to the 2024 suspension of APC National Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, by executives of his Ganduje Ward over alleged anti-party activities and non-payment of dues. Dawakin-Tofa, who hails from the same area as Ganduje, was accused of orchestrating the move—a claim he has repeatedly denied. This marks the second time in less than a year that Dawakin-Tofa has been summoned by the police. In December 2024, officers from the IGP Monitoring Unit attempted to arrest him, prompting him to secure an interim court order barring security agencies from arresting or harassing him. Legal Proceedings and Appeal On December 12, 2024, a Kano High Court issued a restraining order under suit number K/M2500/2024, protecting Dawakin-Tofa from arrest by the IGP, DSS, NSCDC, and several top police officials. The order cited concerns over violations of his constitutional rights to liberty and freedom of movement. However, the court later dismissed his suit against the APC’s Acting National Chairman and the IGP. His lawyer, Barrister H.M. Muhammad, has since filed an appeal at the Court of Appeal, Kano Division. Political History Tensions between Dawakin-Tofa and Ganduje trace back to 2015, when the latter, as governor-elect, allegedly ordered Dawakin-Tofa’s arrest over political opposition during the election period. Dawakin-Tofa has since become a prominent critic of Ganduje and a key opposition voice in his hometown.

By: Kamal Yalwa – Gombe, Nigeria – June 15, 2025 A meeting of All Progressives Congress (APC) stakeholders from the North-East descended into chaos on Sunday after Comrade Mustapha Salihu, the party’s National Vice Chairman for the region, failed to mention Vice President Kashim Shettima while endorsing President Bola Tinubu for a second term. The incident occurred during a consultative forum held in Gombe State, attended by key party figures including APC National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje. Salihu’s omission of Shettima’s name during his endorsement speech sparked immediate backlash from delegates, leading to heated protests and verbal confrontations. Security personnel had to escort Salihu from the venue to prevent further escalation. To restore order, Deputy National Chairman Bukar Dalori intervened, publicly endorsing both President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima for a second term. This move was aimed at quelling tensions and reaffirming party unity ahead of the 2027 general elections. The incident highlights ongoing divisions within the APC, particularly in the North-East region, where Shettima’s leadership has faced criticism from some party members. Earlier, the North-East APC Youth and Stakeholders Forum had accused Shettima of undermining their efforts and threatened to withdraw support, citing perceived neglect after his selection as vice-presidential candidate. The Gombe meeting underscores the delicate balance the APC must maintain to ensure cohesion among its diverse factions as it prepares for the upcoming elections.

By [Kamal Yalwa] Political Correspondent A recent statement by Labour Party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has stirred conversation and sparked varied interpretations among Nigerians, particularly around a cryptic phrase he used during a campaign address. In an earlier speech, Obi rallied his supporters by declaring: “For those who think they will not count our votes — we count them.” Many interpreted this as a call for electoral vigilance, with some suggesting he meant citizens should take the vote-counting process into their own hands if electoral officials fail to do so. However, the discussion intensified after Obi released a follow-up video in which he urged supporters not to leave polling units after voting. In that video, he stated: “When you vote, don’t go. Stay there. Insist they count it. If they refuse to count it — count the person.” The phrase “count the person” has been widely seen as a parable, prompting questions and various interpretations. While some view it as a metaphor for holding officials accountable, others are seeking further clarification to avoid misinterpretation or potential escalation. Political analysts say Obi’s use of such language reflects growing public frustration with electoral transparency and a push for more civic involvement. Still, they caution that ambiguous rhetoric, especially in a tense political climate, can lead to unintended consequences if not clearly explained. Obi, known for his calm demeanor and grassroots engagement, has yet to elaborate on the exact meaning behind the “count the person” remark. Supporters hope he will provide clarity in future statements to ensure the message remains peaceful and constructive. As Nigeria approaches another critical electoral cycle, calls for clearer communication — from all political leaders — are growing louder.

Reno Omokri, a self-proclaimed pastor and political commentator, has once again found himself at the center of a storm of criticism — this time, accused of being the very embodiment of projection, betrayal, and double standards. Observers say Omokri’s recent attacks against political opponents reflect less about their actions and more about his own unchecked insecurities. Once a vocal critic of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Omokri now appears to have undergone a dramatic shift in allegiance — a move critics describe as politically expedient and morally bankrupt. “Reno doesn’t hold principles — he holds grudges and opportunities,” a political analyst noted. “He calls others untrustworthy, yet his history of flip-flopping alliances reads like a political soap opera.” Omokri’s credibility has been called into question on several fronts. Despite claiming to support ethical leadership, he has been accused of repeatedly launching unwarranted verbal assaults on figures like Peter Obi — a man he once praised. Critics say this pattern of behavior points to a fear of being overshadowed by genuine popularity and public goodwill. Even more contentious is his self-styled identity as a moral guide and pastor. Detractors point to glaring contradictions, including his open polygamous lifestyle and shifting loyalties between political heavyweights like Atiku Abubakar and Bola Tinubu. “Nigeria isn’t your polygamous playground,” one observer quipped, referring to Omokri’s now-infamous balancing act between rival camps. Critics have also challenged Omokri to address unresolved issues around President Tinubu’s academic records and past drug-related investigations in the United States — topics Omokri once pursued with zeal but now curiously avoids. “Why the sudden silence?” one commentator asked. “What happened to the moral outrage?” In response to Omokri’s recent statements touting his “credibility,” one critic summed it up bluntly: “Reno Omokri and credibility? That’s not irony — that’s parody.” The growing chorus of dissent signals a broader public fatigue with perceived political opportunism dressed in robes of righteousness. As one analyst put it: “You can’t wear a clerical collar on Sunday and sell your conscience by Monday.” Until Reno Omokri addresses these glaring contradictions, many say he remains, at best, a cautionary tale in credibility — and at worst, a polished example of everything wrong with Nigeria’s political class.

While victims of recent Fulani herdsmen attacks continue to receive treatment in hospitals and grieving families mourn their loved ones, a group of youths and women in Benue State staged a political rally on Thursday in support of the current administration. The demonstrators, under the banner of pro-Tinubu/Alia support groups, marched through major streets of Makurdi, the Benue State capital, expressing solidarity with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Hyacinth Alia. Chanting slogans and carrying placards, the group called for second terms for both leaders, praising their policies and leadership style. The rally, however, sparked mixed reactions from residents, many of whom viewed it as insensitive given the recent wave of violent attacks that have left several communities in mourning. Local commentators noted the growing tension between political activities and the humanitarian crisis triggered by insecurity in the state.

Abuja, Nigeria — June 6, 2025Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), Peter Obi, has accused President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of undermining democracy and failing in key areas of governance, stating that Nigeria’s democratic institutions have suffered significant setbacks under his administration. In a strongly worded statement titled “Democracy in Decline: Reflecting on Two Years of Tinubu’s Governance”, Obi criticised the Tinubu-led government for what he described as poor policy direction, rising poverty, deepening insecurity, and widespread corruption. “Our democracy is in recession. The essential features of a democratic state are missing under this administration. Rules are ignored, institutions are weakened, and impunity reigns,” Obi said. Excessive Foreign Trips Criticised Obi slammed Tinubu’s frequent foreign travels, claiming that the President had embarked on over 30 international trips, spending nearly 150 days abroad, while neglecting pressing domestic issues. “If the President visited all 36 states of Nigeria for just two days each, it would take 72 days—less than half the time he has spent outside the country,” Obi argued, urging Tinubu to engage more with local communities. Economic Decline and Worsening Poverty Obi painted a grim picture of Nigeria’s economic performance under Tinubu, citing several statistics: He also highlighted a surge in rural poverty, referencing recent World Bank data showing that 75% of Nigerians in rural areas are impoverished. “This government is not only failing to grow the economy, it is pushing more Nigerians into poverty,” he said. Collapse of Key Sectors The former Anambra State governor condemned the deteriorating state of education and healthcare, citing the following: He added that mental health issues are on the rise, with 59% of the population reportedly experiencing daily stress. Mass Business Closures, Hunger, and Inflation Obi further disclosed that: “Millions of Nigerians can no longer afford basic meals. The situation is dire, and the government’s response has been propaganda and blame games,” he said. Accusations of Massive Borrowing and Budget Padding Obi criticised the government’s fiscal management, alleging that it has borrowed more in two years than the previous three administrations combined. He estimated Nigeria’s total public debt at nearly ₦188 trillion. He also accused the National Assembly of inflating the 2025 national budget by ₦7 trillion, citing reports by budget tracking group BudgIT. “Our budget has become a crime scene. There is no accountability, and corruption is thriving under this administration,” Obi alleged. Call for Leadership and Accountability The former LP presidential candidate called on Tinubu to emulate former leaders like Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, who publicly admitted the flaws in his election process, and Goodluck Jonathan, who peacefully conceded defeat in 2015. “We must end this era of impunity and restore democratic norms. Nigeria is declining rapidly, and urgent corrective steps are needed to salvage the country,” he concluded.

Veteran Nigerian comedian and social commentator, Atunyota Akpobome, popularly known as Alibaba, has expressed deep concern over the escalating cost of contesting political offices in Nigeria, warning that the situation is entrenching corruption and eroding the spirit of public service In a video interview shared by Instagram user @outsidethebox_nix, Alibaba claimed that securing a senatorial seat in Nigeria now demands between ₦1.2 billion and ₦2 billion, depending on the political terrain and regional dynamics. “To win a senatorial seat is now between ₦1.2 billion, ₦1 or ₦2 billion. You need that to win a Senate seat,” Alibaba said, describing political ambition in the country as a “capital-intensive project.” He went further to give a breakdown of the staggering financial requirements for various elective positions. According to him, contesting for a House of Representatives seat could cost up to ₦1 billion, while vying for a position in the State House of Assembly may require ₦500 million. “The cost increases sharply for gubernatorial positions,” he added. “For Delta State, you need about ₦20 billion. For Rivers, about ₦25 billion. For some northern states, maybe ₦4 to ₦6 billion.” Alibaba linked this massive financial demand directly to the rise in corruption among public officials, stating that political office has become an investment venture rather than a call to service. “It’s a capital-intensive project, which is what is driving the corruption in our country right now,” he noted. “People enter office looking to recoup their investment and prepare for the next election, not to serve.” He further emphasized that even policies related to education or health are often approached with profit motives, making genuine development secondary to political survival. This revelation comes amid widespread public outrage over the influence of money in Nigerian politics. In 2022, major political parties pegged their presidential nomination forms at ₦100 million, prompting criticism from citizens and civil society groups. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has also repeatedly raised alarm about the growing role of money in politics, warning that it threatens democratic processes and excludes credible candidates without financial backing. Alibaba’s comments have sparked renewed debate about the cost of governance and the urgent need for reforms in Nigeria’s electoral financing system.

Abuja, June 12, 2025 — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has denied claims that his administration is obstructing the registration of new political parties in Nigeria. Addressing a joint session of the National Assembly on Thursday as part of activities marking Democracy Day, Tinubu said his government had never issued any directive to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to halt party registrations. “I have never stopped the registration of any political party,” the President stated. This clarification comes amid allegations that the administration is working to turn Nigeria into a one-party state dominated by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Dismissing such claims, Tinubu stressed that the APC had no intention of closing its ranks to new entrants and that the recent influx of opposition members should not be misconstrued as part of a wider political agenda. “The APC would be guilty of political malpractice if it closed its doors to those who now seek to join,” Tinubu said. Welcoming new defectors from Delta and Akwa Ibom States, Tinubu extended an invitation to others, describing the APC as an inclusive platform for progressive governance. “You are all welcome to the progressives forum,” he told new members. The President, however, took a swipe at opposition parties, accusing them of internal disarray and refusing to take responsibility for their troubles. “I will not help the opposition to put their houses in order,” Tinubu said.“It is indeed a pleasure to watch your houses in disarray.” His comments follow a wave of defections across the country, with several opposition politicians abandoning their parties for the APC in recent months. Democracy Day, held annually on June 12, commemorates Nigeria’s struggle for democratic rule and honours the memory of the annulled 1993 election widely regarded as the freest and fairest in the nation’s history.