Wike Says Critics Who Mocked His Tinubu Ties Now Flocking to APC

Wike Says Critics Who Mocked His Tinubu Ties Now Flocking to APC

FCT Minister Nyesom Wike on Wednesday highlighted a shift in the political landscape, noting that many who previously criticised him for his ties with President Bola Tinubu are now joining the All Progressives Congress (APC). The statement came a day after Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah formally left the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the APC. Speaking at the flag-off of the construction of the main carriageways of the Outer Southern Expressway (OSEX) from Ring Road 1 to Ring Road 2 along Wassa Road in Abuja, Wike defended his political decisions, saying politics requires maturity and foresight. “I have been watching on television and social media, those who accused me of destabilising the PDP and working for APC, all of them are now in APC. If it is true I worked for APC, then they should commend me, not condemn me. It means I did a good job for them,” he said. Reaffirming his loyalty to President Tinubu, Wike praised the administration’s policies, particularly the removal of the fuel subsidy, which he said has strengthened the financial position of states and the FCT, ending the need for governors to scramble for loans to pay salaries. “I was a governor for eight years, and I know what it meant to run around banks to borrow money for projects and even to pay salaries. But today, by the decisive leadership of Mr President, banks are now the ones running after states. Salaries are being paid, projects are being executed, and no governor is talking about leaving huge debts for successors. That is visionary leadership,” he said. Wike said the ongoing infrastructure developments in Abuja are a direct result of President Tinubu’s purposeful leadership. “Whatever we are achieving today in the FCT is because of that leadership. Once you set the standard, everyone you appoint must follow suit,” he added. He also assured Apo traders that plans for their relocation remain on course, revealing that the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) has completed costings for the provision of infrastructure at the new site. On the OSEX project, Wike emphasised its importance in decongesting traffic into the city. “Before the Apo–Wassa road was completed, it took hours to enter the city. It was horrible. But gradually, we are delivering relief and convenience to the people of the FCT,” he said. The minister commended FCT Area Council chairmen for working across party lines to support his administration, calling their cooperation unprecedented. Former Super Eagles captain Joseph Yobo, who attended the event, was described by Wike as “a brother” committed to youth-focused initiatives in Abuja. In a vote of thanks, Minister of State, FCT, Dr Mariya Mahmoud, hailed the OSEX project as “a bold step toward easing traffic, boosting economic activity, and improving mobility for residents.” She praised President Tinubu for “turning policies into visible transformation of lives and communities,” and commended Wike for making the FCT “a construction powerhouse and a model of national renewal.”  

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Edo Governor Okpebholo Orders Cabinet To Wear Asiwaju Mandate Cap Or Face Sanctions

Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has ordered all cabinet members to wear the “Asiwaju mandate cap” in support of President Bola Tinubu, warning that defaulters would face sanctions. The directive came during the swearing-in ceremony of commissioners and board members of state agencies and commissions in Benin City on Tuesday. “I will not forgive any commissioner who is not wearing this cap,” the governor said. “During our Exco meetings, if you show up without a suit and the Asiwaju cap, you will be sent back.” Governor Okpebholo attributed the All Progressives Congress’ victory in the state’s last governorship election to President Tinubu’s backing. “This could not have happened without a responsible president. In past elections, the lack of presidential support was a major challenge. Today, we say thank you,” he stated. He emphasized that the appointments were not rewards or patronage, but opportunities for dedicated service. “Our administration is committed to practical governance that directly impacts the lives of our people. Your appointments are for service and sacrifice, not personal enrichment. Your success will be measured by the positive change you bring to Edo communities,” he added. The newly sworn-in commissioners include Vincent Osas Uwadia, Etin-osa Ogbeiwi, Saturday Uwuilekhue Idehen (JP), Charity Amayaenvbo, Nosa Adams, Yakubu Oshiorenua, Felix Akhabue, Omorodion Ignatius, Ohimai Ehijimetor, Eugenia Abdallah, Godwin Afekokhe Eshieshi, Kassim Afegbua, Jerry Uwangue, John Akhigbe, Festus Ebea, Elizabeth Ebosele, Kenneth Okoruwa Ihensekhien, and Usenbo Paul Ehigie.  

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World Cup Qualifier: Tinubu, Atiku, Obi Thumb Up Super Eagles

By Bunmi Ogunyale   President Bola Tinubu has congratulated the Super Eagles on their emphatic 4-0 victory over the Cheetahs of the Benin Republic and commends the team for keeping the nation’s hope alive as they pursue qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.   The President, in a statement by his media aide, Bayo Onanuga, praised the Super Eagles for the hunger, passion, and determination displayed on the field in Uyo, noting that the superlative performance has reignited Nigerians’ football pride.   ”While the job is not yet complete, I join millions of Nigerian football fans in wishing our team every success in the playoffs.   “The mood across the country reflects a shared belief that Nigeria deserves a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which Canada, Mexico, and the United States will host.   “As your President, I assure you and the coaching crew of the Federal Government’s support as you strive to secure your place at the tournament. Nigerians everywhere believe in you, and I do too.   “We look forward to seeing you fly our flag proudly on the world stage.   In a similar vein, the former Vice President, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar and Labour Party Presidential Candidate in the 2023 General Election, Mr. Peter Obi also congratulated the Super Eagles on recillence in the World Cup qualifier.   Both frontline politicians took to their twitter handles now X to commend the senior national team for keeping alive their 2026 FIFA World Cup participation.   “Dear Super Eagles, thank you for this beautiful evening of superlative soccer and a sweet victory to make the country proud,” Atiku wrote.   The former Governor of Anambra State, Mr. Peter Obi also saluted the doggedness of the Eric Chelle lad, saying; “Congratulations to our Super Eagles.   “Today, my day started very early at 6am, and after a very hectic day of participating in 5 different events of commissioning and campaigning in Anambra State, I had to watch the Super Eagles game.   “I watched with so much confidence and pride, and it was such a brilliant and sweet victory against the Benin Republic.   “The performance was really Super showing that it’s Possible.   “You showed true Nigerian spirit, strength, dominance, and unity on the field. This is the power of perseverance and teamwork.   “Well done, Super Eagles.   “Congratulations.”

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Tinubu Mourns Former Foreign Minister, Joy Ogwu

President Bola Tinubu has learned with profound sadness that Ambassador Joy Uche Angela Ogwu, who was 79, has passed away. A former Minister of Foreign Affairs and former Ambassador/Permanent Representative of Nigeria to the United Nations in New York, Ambassador Ogwu represented Nigeria at the United Nations from May 2008 to May 2017. A skilled diplomat and scholar, she served as the Director-General of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), where she made invaluable contributions to developing Nigeria’s foreign policy and international relations scholarship. With inspiring dedication and skill, she presided over the UN Security Council twice, first in July 2010 and again in October 2011. President Tinubu extols the late Ambassador for projecting Nigeria’s voice with clarity and purpose and working tirelessly for global peace, disarmament, international security, and the advancement of women’s rights. The President extends his heartfelt condolences to Ambassador Ogwu’s five children, grandchildren, sisters and brothers, the entire Ogwu family, and the diplomatic and academic community, mourning the passing of the distinguished diplomat. ”Nigeria has lost a trailblazer who rose to the highest level of her vocation through excellence and hard work,” he says. President Tinubu prayed for the repose of her soul and for divine comfort for all who mourn the diplomat.

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Tinubu Requests Senate Approval For Joash Amupitan As INEC Chairman

President Bola Tinubu has sent a formal request to the Senate seeking confirmation of Joash Amupitan as the new chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The request, communicated in a letter to Senate President Godswill Akpabio, was read during Tuesday’s plenary session. Amupitan’s appointment was unanimously approved by the National Council of State on October 9. A Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) and Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration) at the University of Jos, he will succeed Mahmood Yakubu, who completed his tenure at the commission. In the letter, Tinubu emphasized that the confirmation aligns with Section 154(1) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), and expressed hope that the Senate would expedite the approval process. Following the reading of the letter, Senate President Akpabio referred the matter to the Committee of the Whole for further legislative consideration.  

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Dino Melaye Slams Tinubu Over Presidential Pardons, Alleges 70 Were Drug Convicts

Former Senator Dino Melaye has criticized President Bola Tinubu over his recent presidential clemency, claiming that a large number of those pardoned were convicted for drug-related crimes. In a post on X on Sunday, Melaye alleged that about 70 of the 175 individuals granted clemency were drug offenders, calling the move “unprecedented in history.” He argued that no other government had ever issued such a wide-scale pardon to convicted drug criminals. “Pardon granted to 70 drug lords by President Tinubu is unprecedented in history. Checks show it has never happened anywhere in the world. My advice to the President is to scrap the NDLEA, as his action has rendered the agency’s efforts meaningless since its inception,” Melaye wrote. Among the 175 individuals granted clemency were notable figures such as the late environmental activist Ken Saro-Wiwa, nationalist Herbert Macaulay, Major General Mamman Vatsa, and Maryam Sanda, who had been sentenced to death for murdering her husband.  

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Tinubu Hails Son Seyi On 40th Birthday, Lauds His Courage And Dedication To Service

President Bola Tinubu has honored his son, Seyi Tinubu, as he marked his 40th birthday, describing him as a man who has turned life’s challenges into stepping stones and shown leadership from an early age. In a warm message on Saturday, Tinubu praised Seyi’s determination, creativity, and dedication to service, noting that his journey reflects focus, courage, and humility. “My dear son, today, as you turn forty, I thank Almighty God for your life and the man you have become. You have walked your path with focus, courage, and humility, and you have done so with a heart that seeks to build, serve, and uplift others.” The President commended Seyi’s entrepreneurial spirit and resilience, highlighting his ability to transform ideas into lasting ventures and setbacks into opportunities for growth. “From an early age, you have shown determination and a desire to create and lead. I have watched you turn ideas into institutions and challenges into opportunities. In business and in service, you have shown that true success is not measured by wealth or power but by the impact we make and the lives we touch.” Tinubu described 40 as a defining age that balances youthful drive with mature wisdom, commending Seyi for carrying the family name with pride and upholding the values of discipline, integrity, and hard work. “We are proud of the family you are building with Layal, your devotion as a husband and father, and your commitment to making a difference in your generation.” Concluding his message, the President prayed for continued divine guidance and blessings upon his son. “As you celebrate this milestone, remember that your strength lies in what you achieve and how you inspire others to believe in themselves. May God bless you with wisdom, good health, and peace. Happy 40th Birthday, my son. You have made us proud, and I know you will continue to make Nigeria proud.”  

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Tinubu Travels To Rome For Aqaba Counter-Terrorism Meeting

President Bola Tinubu will depart Abuja today for Rome, Italy, to participate in the Aqaba Process heads of state and government meeting — a global platform dedicated to counter-terrorism and regional security cooperation. The Aqaba Process was launched in 2015 by Jordan’s King Abdullah II and is co-chaired by Jordan and the Italian government. It brings together world leaders, defence chiefs, and security experts to strengthen coordination against terrorism and transnational crime. Bayo Onanuga, special adviser to the president on information and strategy, said the upcoming session will focus on the security crisis in West Africa. Opening on October 14, the meeting will gather presidents, top intelligence and military officials from African countries, as well as representatives from international and non-governmental organisations. Discussions will cover the expansion of terrorist networks, the growing connection between organised crime and terrorism, and the increasing link between land-based insurgencies in the Sahel and piracy in the Gulf of Guinea. Participants will exchange intelligence reports, assess the current security environment, and design strategies to improve cooperation in combating threats across borders. They will also explore new approaches to tackling online radicalisation and shutting down digital platforms that spread extremist propaganda and aid recruitment. Tinubu is also expected to hold bilateral meetings with other leaders on the sidelines of the summit to deepen regional partnerships and discuss joint responses to the rising insecurity across West Africa. He will be accompanied by Bianca Ojukwu, minister of state for foreign affairs; Mohammed Badaru, minister of defence; Nuhu Ribadu, national security adviser; Mohammed Mohammed, director-general of the National Intelligence Agency; and other senior government officials.  

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