Akpabio to Abbo: You Are Bitter and Desperate for Political Relevance

Akpabio to Abbo: You Are Bitter and Desperate for Political Relevance

The attention of the Office of the President of the Senate has been drawn to another round of spurious and malicious accusations by Mr. Elisha Abbo, who unlawfully represented Adamawa North Senatorial District save a judicial intervention. He has again sought to blame the President of the Senate, His Excellency, Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio, for the travail of his judicial sanction that occasioned his ouster from the Senate. It is sad and regrettable that despite publicly retracting a similar allegation in 2023—after admitting that his earlier accusation was “premature and based on the available information at our disposal”—Mr. Abbo has once again embarked on a campaign of misinformation and blame transfer. Following a discussion with the Senate President last year, Mr. Abbo himself acknowledged that Senator Akpabio had “no involvement” in the judicial process that led to his removal. It is puzzling that he would now return to the same baseless allegations he once renounced. For the avoidance of doubt, the Court of Appeal, after a thorough legal process, ruled unequivocally that Mr. Abbo’s presence in the Red Chamber was in error. The court determined that he was not validly elected as the Senator for Adamawa North, and consequently, he was removed. The court acted in accordance with the extant laws and the Constitution within its sacred duty to uphold the rule of law. Senator Akpabio, a seasoned lawyer and democrat, holds the independence of the judiciary in the highest regard and would never interfere in its processes. It is therefore both illogical and irresponsible for Mr. Abbo to now turn around and allege that the Senate President influenced a court judgment—a judgment which he himself accepted at the time and for which he expressed contrition for his earlier unfounded claims. ( see Punch newspaper of 18th October, 2023) Mr. Abbo has also sought to create the impression that he was unjustly denied official benefits following his ouster. He claims entitlement to salaries, allowances, and even an official vehicle, despite the court’s declaration that his tenure was null and void ab initio. In matters of financial and administrative processing, it must be stated that the Senate President only approves payments that have been duly vetted and forwarded by the appropriate administrative units, in line with extant laws, Senate procedures, and standard due diligence practices. If any of Mr. Abbo’s claims for payment did not reach the desk of the Senate President, it is because they failed to meet these lawful standards—not because of any personal or political vendetta. It is unfortunate that instead of accepting the consequences of his legal and political failings, Mr. Abbo continues to resort to media theatrics and reckless finger-pointing. Even more telling is his record of public conduct. Nigerians will recall that in 2019, he was caught on video assaulting a female citizen in Abuja—an incident for which he was ordered by a competent court to pay N50 million in damages. This is a matter of public record and speaks volumes about his temperament and disposition. His recent outbursts about unpaid travels and imagined plots further reinforce the conclusion that his actions are driven not by facts or principle, but by bitterness and desperation to remain politically relevant. These claims are not only baseless, but they reek of grievance and a refusal to accept personal responsibility for his removal and loss of public trust. Senator Godswill Akpabio remains focused on the noble task of nation-building, providing purposeful leadership in the Senate, and strengthening democratic institutions—especially the independence of the judiciary. He will not be distracted by the antics of individuals who seek to rewrite history to mask personal failures. We urge Mr. Abbo to reflect deeply, respect the rule of law, and focus on rebuilding the confidence of his constituents if he hopes to return to public life. Nigeria’s democracy can only thrive when its actors show maturity, responsibility, and an abiding respect for the truth.

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Kebbi Special Advisers Reaffirm Support for Governor Idris

Kebbi Special Advisers Reaffirm Support for Governor Idris

The Kebbi State Special Advisers’ Forum, comprising 142 members, has expressed unwavering support for Governor Nasir Idris. During a Sallah homage at the Government House in Birnin Kebbi, Vice Chairman Dr. Aminu Haliru Bunza praised the governor’s inclusive governance, highlighting significant advancements in infrastructure and human capacity development. Dr. Bunza noted the unprecedented socioeconomic growth under Governor Idris, emphasizing the historic achievement of appointing 142 Special Advisers as a commitment to inclusive governance. He also lauded the governor’s open-door policy, which has positively impacted the community, and assured continued backing from the forum.​Trending News Additionally, Special Advisers Alhaji Lawali Na Allah and Alhaji Arzika Muhammad Dan Atto expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve. They requested further engagement with the administration and urged the prompt payment of their approved Furniture Allowance. In response, Governor Idris approved their requests, directing the Secretary to the State Government and the state Accountant General to ensure all outstanding Furniture Allowances are settled by April 2, 2025. He also prioritized regular meetings with the Special Advisers to enhance collaboration.​ Governor Idris commended the Special Advisers for their significant contributions and reiterated his commitment to inclusive governance. He pledged to continue fulfilling campaign promises while maintaining open communication with all stakeholders. The governor also reaffirmed the administration’s dedication to citizens’ welfare, highlighting the successful implementation of the new national minimum wage and a focus on delivering democratic dividends to all residents, regardless of political or ethnic backgrounds

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Human rights activist and #RevolutionNow Movement leader, Omoyele Sowore, has alleged that President Bola Tinubu's trip to France is for medical treatment, not a "working visit" as claimed by the presidency. In response to reports about Tinubu's two-week trip, Sowore criticized the Nigerian government for spreading misinformation, accusing officials of misleading the public about the real purpose of the president's foreign travels. Sowore, a former presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), stated, “Bola Ahmed Tinubu has fled Nigeria again to France for medical care, while some officials falsely claim it's a 'working visit.' It’s troubling that 200 million Nigerians are subjected to daily misinformation with little action to stop it.” This is not the first time Tinubu's trips have sparked controversy. In February 2024, Tinubu spent 13 days in Paris under the guise of a "private visit." However, sources revealed the trip was actually for medical reasons, with one insider confirming, "It's a medical leave; he went to see his doctors in France." Earlier reports by SaharaReporters suggested that Tinubu had gone on bed rest after his May 29 inauguration and had visited France for medical attention before taking office. Additionally, in May 2023, it was revealed that Tinubu sought medical rest in Lagos and received follow-up treatment from doctors who had previously cared for him in France.

Sowore: Tinubu Has Fled Nigeria For Medical Treatment in France”

Human rights activist and #RevolutionNow Movement leader, Omoyele Sowore, has alleged that President Bola Tinubu’s trip to France is for medical treatment, not a “working visit” as claimed by the presidency. In response to reports about Tinubu’s two-week trip, Sowore criticized the Nigerian government for spreading misinformation, accusing officials of misleading the public about the real purpose of the president’s foreign travels. Sowore, a former presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), stated, “Bola Ahmed Tinubu has fled Nigeria again to France for medical care, while some officials falsely claim it’s a ‘working visit.’ It’s troubling that 200 million Nigerians are subjected to daily misinformation with little action to stop it.” This is not the first time Tinubu’s trips have sparked controversy. In February 2024, Tinubu spent 13 days in Paris under the guise of a “private visit.” However, sources revealed the trip was actually for medical reasons, with one insider confirming, “It’s a medical leave; he went to see his doctors in France.” Earlier reports by SaharaReporters suggested that Tinubu had gone on bed rest after his May 29 inauguration and had visited France for medical attention before taking office. Additionally, in May 2023, it was revealed that Tinubu sought medical rest in Lagos and received follow-up treatment from doctors who had previously cared for him in France.

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VP Shettima heads to Dakar to represent Tinubu at Senegal's 65th Independence.

VP Shettima Heads To Dakar To Represent Tinubu At Senegal’s 65th Independence

The Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, has departed Abuja for Dakar, Senegal, to represent President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the country’s 65th Independence Day Anniversary celebrations. Senegal celebrates its Independence Day on April 4 each year, commemorating its freedom from French colonial rule in 1960. The day is marked by national pride, with ceremonies, parades and cultural events. The Vice President’s attendance at the annual event is in honour of an invitation extended to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu by the Senegalese President, Bassirou Diomaye Faye, following the strong mutual relationship between Nigeria and Senegal. The independence Day celebrations will be held at the Place de la Nation in Dakar, with President Faye playing host to Vice President Shettima and other distinguished guests from across Africa and beyond. The Vice President is expected to return to Nigeria tomorrow after the one-day event.

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One Dead, Three Injured in Renewed Sara-Suka Clash in Jos

One Dead, Three Injured In Renewed Sara-Suka Clash In Jos

Fresh clash involving rival groups, known as Sara-Suka, has led to the death of one person and left three others injured in Jos, Plateau State. The violent incident occurred late yesterday evening when members of the group engaged in a brutal confrontation in the city. The Sara-Suka group, notorious for their violent activities, reportedly clashed over territorial control. Security forces were quickly deployed to the scene to restore order, but the situation remains tense as investigations continue. Local authorities have condemned the violence and promised to take stronger actions against the perpetrators. Meanwhile, the injured individuals are receiving treatment at a nearby hospital, while the police have urged the public to remain calm and avoid further escalation.

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Akpabio Petitions IGP Over Alleged Assassination Claim by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan

Kogi Govt Calls Akpoti Uduaghan Allegations Baseless Urges Security Action

The Kogi State Government has dismissed allegations made by suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti Uduaghan, calling them false and an attempt to manipulate public opinion. Kingsley Fanwo, the Commissioner for Information and Communications, said the government took note of a now-deleted post on Akpoti Uduaghan’s Facebook page, where she claimed that Governor Usman Ododo, former Governor Yahaya Bello, and Senate President Godswill Akpabio should be held responsible if anything happened to her. Fanwo accused her of trying to incite unrest in Kogi Central by violating the state’s ban on political gatherings, asserting that her visit to the area was intended to cause violence. “Governor Ododo has no interest in the suspended senator’s political theatrics. Her baseless claims are an attempt to stir controversy and distract from her disregard for the law,” he said. Fanwo also accused Akpoti Uduaghan of ignoring security directives and causing disturbances in the state, claiming her actions aligned with intelligence reports about a planned disruption of peace in Kogi Central. He called on security agencies to monitor her “reckless utterances and inflammatory actions,” emphasizing the government’s commitment to law and order. “Kogi State remains peaceful under Governor Ododo, and we will not allow anyone to disrupt our progress,” Fanwo stated. He also warned that Akpoti Uduaghan would be held responsible if her actions led to violence in the state.

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NFF Congratulates Musa Kida on Appointment as Chairman, NNPCL

The Nigeria Football Federation has congratulated the President of Nigeria Basketball Federation, Engineer Ahmadu Musa Kida on his appointment as the non-executive Chairman of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL). In a letter signed by the NFF General Secretary, Dr Mohammed Sanusi, the football-governing body said it was not surprised about Kida’s appointment by the President and Commander-In-Chief of the Armed Forces, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, given Kida’s proven ability, capacity, demonstrated competence and sagacity in the nation’s oil sector over the decades. “Your appointment is another testament that a goldfish has no hiding place. Your legacies as the most-impactful President of the Nigeria Basketball Federation (NBBF) ever, as a true leader of the oil sector in Nigeria and internationally, and as an administrator of the highest repute, have eventually found you out as deserving of a higher national assignment, and we heartily rejoice with you. “The NFF has absolutely no doubt in your capacity to lead the new board to a level of enhanced operational efficiency, restoration of investor-confidence, local content-boosting, remarkable economic growth and the advancement of gas commercialisation and diversification, as envisioned by Mr. President,” Sanusi wrote. The NFF commended Mr. President for the appointment, while praising Kida’s track record as an adroit manager of men and resources, a lover of excellence and an individual whose endless innovation and gravitas have seen to the remarkable growth of all establishments he has journeyed through on his way to the top. Kida, a graduate of the Ahmadu Bello University, heads the newly-constituted 11-member NNPCL board, with Mr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari as the Group Chief Executive Officer.

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Tinubu Embarks on Working Visist to Paris

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will depart for Paris, France, today on a short working visit. During the visit, the President will appraise his administration’s midterm performance and assess key milestones. He will also use the retreat to review the progress of ongoing reforms and engage in strategic planning ahead of his administration’s second anniversary. This period of reflection will inform plans to deepen ongoing reforms and accelerate national development priorities in the coming year. Recent economic strides reinforce the President’s commitment to these efforts, as evidenced by the Central Bank of Nigeria reporting a significant increase in net foreign exchange reserves to $23.11 billion—a testament to the administration’s fiscal reforms since 2023 when net reserves were $3.99 billion. While away, President Tinubu will remain fully engaged with his team and continue to oversee governance activities. He will return to Nigeria in about a fortnight.

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