Politics Archives | Page 3 of 6

National Assembly: Senator Natasha apologies to Oby Ezekwesili

Our Reporters1 week ago1 week ago02 mins

Suspended Senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has apologied to the former Minister of Education, Dr. Oby Ezekwesili following a heated exchange with Onyekachi Nwaebonyi, senator representing Ebonyi North, during a senate hearing on Tuesday. Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan took to her official twitter handle now X to tender the unreserved apology. “Ma’am, I apologise for the insults. Know you took them for me… for us … as a mother and as a leader. Know that you are a true icon of integrity, courage, and visionary leadership. “Your unwavering commitment to good governance, education and democracy continues to inspire generations. “A champion of accountability… “Nigerians appreciate you. “I celebrate your brilliance, resilience and selfless service. “You are a hero,” she stated. In her response, Dr. Ezekwesili wrote; “Very kind words, dear Senator Natasha Akpoti Uduaghan “Yet to me, a torrent of insults from any source is but a little price to pay in our resolve to see a Nigerian that Becomes. “Our daughters and granddaughters must never inherit battles and wars we should have fought and won for them. “An unjust society that silences women and vulnerable people can never Become. “We all must refuse that for Nigeria. “We STAND ON!”

Natasha’s Constituents Submit Petition To INEC For Her Recall

Natasha’s Constituents Submit Recall Petition to INEC

Our Reporters1 week ago1 week ago03 mins

The lawmaker was suspended by the Senate for six months for misconduct after a seat row with Senate President Godswill Akpabio. Senator Natasha had in the wake of a seat dispute with Akpabio accused the lawmaker of sexual harassment. X@NatashaAkpoti Some constituents of Kogi Central Senatorial District have submitted a petition to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), for the recall of Natasha Akpoti Uduaghan, the suspended lawmaker representing the district in the National Assembly. The petition, presented by Charity Ijese, on behalf of the constituents, was received at the INEC headquarters, by the Commission’s Secretary, Rose Anthony, on Monday, March 24, 2025. The petition was titled, ‘Constituents’ Petition for the Recall of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan on Grounds of Loss of Confidence’. The constituents said, “In particular, this petition for the recall of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan is brought pursuant to Section 69 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), as well as INEC’s Regulations and Guidelines for Recall Petitions.” They affirmed that Akpoti-Uduaghan emerged by virtue of an Appeal Court decision in October 2023 but said the petition arose as a result of their loss of confidence in her representation. “This petition arises from our loss of confidence in the Senator on the grounds of gross misconduct, abuse of office, evasion of due process, and a pattern of deceitful behaviour that has not only embarassed the people of Kogi Central but has also tarnished the integrity of the Nigerian Senate and our nation’s democratic institutions. “By this petition, which we have made sure is signed by more than half of the registered voters in Kogi Central, we hereby demand that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) immediately commence the constitutional and procedural process of recall to remove Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan from office and declare her seat vacant,” the constituents said. The female federal lawmaker was involved in a seat arrangement dispute with Senate President Godswill Akpabio. The lawmaker accused Akpabio of sexual harassment and abuse of office. Senate subsequently suspended her for six months for misconduct.

‘Excessive’ – Soyinka Criticizes Tinubu’s Emergency Rule in Rivers

Excessive’, Soyinka Faults Tinubu’s Emergency Rule In Rivers

Our Reporters2 weeks ago2 weeks ago05 mins

Nobel laureate, Professor Wole Soyinka, has condemned President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, describing the move as “excessive” and a dangerous overreach of executive power. Soyinka’s criticism follows the political turmoil in Rivers State, which led to the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and members of the House of Assembly by President Tinubu. The President also appointed Ibok-Ete Ibas, a retired naval chief, as the state’s sole administrator — a decision that has sparked widespread controversy and backlash. Soyinka’s Response In a statement released on Sunday, Soyinka argued that Tinubu’s action was disproportionate and undemocratic, warning that it could set a dangerous precedent for governance in Nigeria. “I find the imposition of emergency rule in Rivers State excessive and unjustified,” Soyinka said. “Political conflicts are not new in Nigeria, but resolving them through measures that sideline constitutional order and democratic processes is deeply troubling.” Soyinka stressed that Nigeria’s constitution provides clear guidelines for handling political disputes and that appointing a sole administrator undermines the will of the people and the integrity of the electoral process. “The solution to a political crisis cannot be the removal of an elected governor and the appointment of an unelected administrator,” Soyinka stated. “It is an insult to the democratic process and a dangerous precedent for future conflicts.” Violation of Democratic Principles Soyinka warned that Tinubu’s action threatens the foundation of Nigeria’s democratic institutions. He argued that the crisis in Rivers State should have been resolved through dialogue and political engagement rather than executive force. “Democracy is not about the absence of conflict but about the ability to resolve conflict through dialogue, compromise, and adherence to the rule of law,” Soyinka said. “By bypassing these principles, the President has weakened the democratic structure.” Legal and Political Backlash Soyinka’s statement aligns with the position of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), which has also declared the state of emergency unconstitutional. NBA President Afam Osigwe argued that the constitution does not recognize the appointment of a sole administrator and called for Fubara’s immediate reinstatement. Soyinka echoed these concerns, warning that the President’s action could trigger a constitutional crisis and further destabilize the political environment in Rivers State and beyond. “The danger of this action is not limited to Rivers State,” Soyinka said. “If left unchecked, it could become a template for resolving political disputes across the country — through executive overreach rather than democratic engagement.” Call for Reversal Soyinka urged President Tinubu to reconsider his decision and work towards a political solution that respects the constitutional rights of Rivers State’s elected officials and citizens. “The path forward is not through imposition but through negotiation and respect for democratic norms,” he stated. “Governor Fubara’s mandate comes from the people, and any attempt to undermine that mandate must be resisted.” Conclusion Soyinka’s remarks have added weight to the growing opposition to the state of emergency in Rivers State. His call for dialogue and political resolution reflects broader concerns about Nigeria’s democratic stability and the potential for executive overreach to undermine constitutional governance.

Tinubu Should Restore Fubara, Administrator Unconstitutional – NBA

Tinubu Should Reinstate Fubara, Administrator Appointment Unconstitutional – NBA

Our Reporters2 weeks ago2 weeks ago03 mins

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has reaffirmed its stance that the removal of Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, by President Bola Tinubu is unconstitutional. The association has called on the President to reverse the decision and restore Fubara to office. On Tuesday, President Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, suspending the governor, his deputy, and all members of the House of Assembly due to the ongoing political crisis in the oil-rich state. He subsequently appointed Ibok-Ete Ibas, a retired naval chief, as the state’s sole administrator. Speaking on Sunday Politics, NBA President Afam Osigwe condemned the President’s action, insisting that the constitution does not recognize the appointment of a sole administrator. “That is our position and what we expect the President to do — restore Fubara to power, as his removal was unconstitutional,” Osigwe stated. “We do not recognize a sole administrator as the legitimate authority in Rivers State because the appointment itself is unconstitutional.” Osigwe also questioned the legitimacy of the oath of office taken by Ibas. “When I saw him taking the oath, I wondered what kind of oath it was because it’s not one recognized by the constitution,” he said. He compared the President’s response to using a sledgehammer to treat a headache, calling the measures “overreaching, excessive, undemocratic, and above all, unconstitutional.” According to Osigwe, the problem in Rivers State is political and requires a political solution. No Constitutional Gap Some have argued that Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution provides a basis for the President’s action, but Osigwe firmly rejected this claim. “I do not believe Section 305 is unclear; I believe we are simply refusing to apply it correctly,” he said. Although the National Assembly has approved the state of emergency in Rivers State, Osigwe argued that this does not validate the President’s actions. “The National Assembly’s approval is like placing something on nothing,” he asserted.

Amnesty International Calls for Probe Into Natasha’s Allegations Against Akpabio

Our Reporters2 weeks ago2 weeks ago02 mins

Amnesty International has called for an immediate and thorough investigation into the serious allegations made by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan against Senate President Godswill Akpabio. The human rights organization urged Nigerian authorities to ensure a transparent and impartial inquiry, stressing the importance of upholding justice and accountability. Senator Natasha recently accused Akpabio of misconduct, raising concerns about abuse of power and potential violations of ethical standards. Amnesty International emphasized that such allegations must not be swept under the rug and called for a fair and independent investigation to uncover the truth. “The allegations are serious and demand immediate attention,” Amnesty International said in a statement. “Authorities must demonstrate that no one is above the law by conducting a credible and transparent investigation.” The organization also underscored the need to protect Senator Natasha from any form of intimidation or retaliation, stressing that whistleblowers and those who speak out against injustice must be safeguarded. Amnesty’s call adds pressure on Nigerian authorities to address the issue promptly and ensure that justice is served, regardless of political status or influence.

Fubara makes first public appearance after his suspension

Fubara makes first public appearance after suspension

Our Reporters2 weeks ago2 weeks ago02 mins

Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has made his first public appearance since his suspension from office following the declaration of a state of emergency in the state. The governor was seen attending a Sunday service at the headquarters of Salvation Ministries in GRA, Port Harcourt. Fubara’s appearance comes just days after President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers on Tuesday, March 19, citing escalating political tensions and security concerns. As part of the emergency measures, Fubara, his deputy, Prof. Ngozi Odu, and all members of the Rivers State House of Assembly were suspended. In their place, Tinubu appointed Ibok-Ete Ibas as the Sole Administrator to oversee the state’s affairs for an initial period of six months. The decision has sparked mixed reactions from political stakeholders, legal practitioners, and civil society groups. Meanwhile, the newly appointed Sole Administrator has already taken steps to assert control. Since assuming office, he has held emergency security meetings with law enforcement agencies, traditional rulers, and local government administrators. During these meetings, he confirmed the release of withheld state allocations and directed the immediate processing of payments for local government workers. Fubara makes first public appearance after his suspensioIbas has also inspected the ongoing reconstruction of the Rivers State House of Assembly Complex, promising to ensure its timely completion for the stability of governance. Governor Fubara attended the church service with his Chief of Staff, Edison Ehie.

You can’t return to office- PDP tells sacked Osun LG Chairmen, Councillors

Our Reporters2 months ago2 months ago05 mins

The national leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has cautioned the sacked Osun State Local Government Chairmen and Councillors to perish the thought of forcing themselves back into office as such will amount to a futile venture with dire consequences. The PDP also charged the All Progressives Congress (APC) to accept the reality and end its resort to self-help, misrepresentations, vituperations, violence and killing with the aim to trigger crisis and destabilize the State, having realized that it has irredeemably lost. The PDP asserted that the fate of the ousted Local Government Chairmen and Councilors was sealed by the Judgment of the Court to Appeal which nullified the unconstitutional attempt by the then Governor Gboyega Oyetola to illegally plant them as Local Government officers in the guise of an election. Having been roundly rejected by the people of Osun State in the Saturday, July 16, 2022, governorship election, the then Governor Oyetola and the APC ought to have known that attempting to side-step the laws and manipulate the process to illegally foist APC members and apologists as Local Government Chairmen and Counselors was an exercise in futility which was bound to fail ultimately. The APC is the architect of its misfortune. It should have known that disregarding and refusing to comply with the provisions of the Constitution and the Osun State Local Government Election Laws with respect to the requirement on notices, processes and procedures of conducting local government election is destined to be fatal and irreparable. “We counsel the Osun State APC to stop playing to the gallery by trying to bring in the exulted office of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria into disrepute by hopelessly dropping the President’s name at public spaces in their desperate but pathetic and unrealizable attempt to garner undeserved sympathy. “The APC should note that our nation operates a federal system of government with clearly entrenched devolution of powers among the federating units as well as the various sub-national tiers of government. It should therefore desist from the fruitless attempt to drag President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Federal Government into the issue of local government election which, under the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended), is within the purview of the State and has no connection whatsoever with the Federal Government. “If the APC believes that it is truly popular in Osun State as it claims, it should rather get ready for election as already scheduled by the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission (OSSIEC) instead of holding unto an imaginary strand of straw and instigating violence and killings in the State. “Our Party strongly condemns the violence and killing of some youths today by APC thugs and calls on the Inspector General of Police to hold APC leaders in Osun State responsible and bring them to book for this heinous crime,” PDP declared in a statement on Monday. The PDP called on the people of Osun State to remain calm, law-abiding and get ready for the Local Government Election as they continue to support Governor Ademola Adeleke in his outstanding delivery of monumental life-enhancing projects and programs in the State.

PDP dismisses BoT Chairman, Senator Wabara suspension

Our Reporters2 months ago2 months ago04 mins

The National Working Committee (NWC0 of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has dismissed the purported suspension of the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Party, Senator Adolphus Wabara. The Party stated this in a statement signed the Party’s National Publicity Secretary Hon. Debo Ologunagba and made available on Tuesday The statement reads; “The attention of the National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has been drawn to the purported suspension of the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of our great Party, Distinguished Senator Adolphus Wabara from the Party. “The NWC categorically dismisses the purported suspension as null and void and of no effect whatsoever not being consistent with the provisions of the Constitution of the PDP (as amended in 2017) and laid down Rules of our great Party. “For emphasis no State Working Committee has the power to suspend or take any disciplinary action against a member of the National Executive Committee (NEC) of the Party without due recourse to the NWC as clearly provided under Section 57 (7) of the Constitution of the PDP (as amended in 2017). “Section 57 (7) is unambiguous in providing that; “Notwithstanding any other provision relating to discipline, no Executive Committee at any level, except the National Executive Committee, shall entertain any question of discipline as may relate or concern a member of the National Executive Committee, Deputy Governors or members of the National Assembly…” “The explicit import of Section 57 (7) is that the Abia State Chapter has no powers whatsoever to take any disciplinary action against the Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Senator Adolphus Wabara, being a member of the National Executive Committee of the Party. “The PDP therefore condemns the purported suspension of Senator Wabara as reckless, unconstitutional and cautions those behind this act in defiance of the PDP Constitution to retrace their steps as the NWC will not hesitate to take appropriate disciplinary actions to preserve the stability of our Party and the sanctity of its Constitution. “The NWC calls on all leaders, critical stakeholders, members and supporters of our Party in Abia State, the South East Zone and indeed across the country to disregard the purported suspension.”