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Court: Jonathan Can Run For Presidential Election

Court: Jonathan Can Run For Presidential Election

•In response to Keyamo, Jonathan’s office releases a 2022 Court Judgement affirming Ex -President’s right to run again, but says he is still consulting

Alex Enumah in Abuja

As the possibility of former President Goodluck Jonathan contesting the 2027 presidential election continues to heat up political discussions, a previously unpublished judgment delivered by a Federal High Court in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, affirmed that Jonathan was well qualified to contest presidential election.
Two members of the APC in Bayelsa had gone to court in 2022 to determine Jonathan’s position, given the high stakes northern lobby to mobilise Jonathan to replace late President Muhammadu Buhari before the now President Tinubu eventually clinched the APC ticket.

Aides to the former President said he is still consulting on whether to throw his hat in the ring for 2027. Sources close to the former President told THISDAY last night, that he has been approached by three political parties – each wanting him to contest the presidency on their platforms. The Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, the New Nigeria Peoples Party, NNPP and the recently formed coalition, the African Democratic Congress, ADC – all jostling for the former President who many see as one of the most viable candidates that can give the incumbent President Bola Ahmed Tinubu a good run for his money.

This calculation is based on the fact that Jonathan can only legally seek one more term and could assuage the feelings of northern voters who accuse President Tinubu of marginalisation.

A claim that the presidency has vigorously denied.

The judgment delivered by Justice Isah Dashem of the Federal High Court, Yenagoa, on May 27, 2022 but obtained by THISDAY yesterday, put to rest the contentious constitutional amendment of Section 137(1)(b) and 3, as it affects Jonathan.

Various analysts led by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development and Learned Silk, Festus Keyamo, had claimed that the PDP may put its presidential chances in 2027 at “risk” should they field Jonathan going by the provisions of the above section from the amended Constitution in 2018. However, Keyamo did not disclose or was unaware of the judgement of Justice Dashem.

The judgment, which has not been appealed or set aside remains subsisting. And it is now out of time for any appeal after 3 years since it was delivered
In the 2022 suit with number: FHC/YNG/CS/86/2022, the two APC members sued Jonathan, APC and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), over rumour that the APC had planned to field the former president as its presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections.

Their grouse was that Jonathan’s participation would ruin the chances of the APC having taking oath of office twice as president.

The sole issue raised for determination was “Whether, in view of the provisions of | Section 137(1)(b) and (3) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as altered) and the fact that Jonathan had earlier been sworn-in as the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in 2010 and 2011 respectively, whether he is qualified to contest for the office of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in the 2023 General Elections to be organized by the 3rd Defendant.”
The plaintiffs, Andy Solomon and Idibiye Abraham, through their lawyer, Seigha Egbuwabe, further urged that if the answer to (1) above was in the negative, then the court should determine “Whether the no 2” Defendant was entitled to field the 1st Defendant as its Presidential Candidate in the 2023 General Elections”.
The court was also to determine, “Whether the 3rd Defendant is entitled to disqualify the 1st Defendant from contesting and/or from being presented as the 2nd Defendant Presidential Candidate in the 2023 General Elections.”

Dashem, after taking arguments from plaintiffs’ lawyer and Jonathan, who was represented by Eric Omare, held that Jonathan was eminently qualified to contest in 2023.

Before arriving at the conclusion, Dashem observed that Jonathan was elected first as president in 2011.

“The office into which the ‘election’ stated in Section 137(1)(b) of the Constitution applies to the Office of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and not into the Office of the Vice President. I have perused the entirety of the Plaintiffs supporting affidavit and Written Address and I am unable to find where the Plaintiffs referred this Court contested apart from the elections conducted in year 2011.

“I, therefore, find the Plaintiffs’ contention that the 1st Defendant has been elected to the Office of President on Two (2) previous occasions spurious, baseless and unsubstantiated.

“And I so hold.”

He clarified that although elections into the offices of President and Vice President were conducted simultaneously and upon a joint ticket submitted by a political party, such as the 2nd Defendant, to the 3rd Defendant, the positions of President and Vice President were two different offices.

According to the judge, election of a person, such as the 1st Defendant, into the Office of the Vice President is not the same as his election into the Office of the President and vice-versa.

The judge stated, “A person who is elected into the Office of Vice President cannot by virtue of such election simpliciter, occupy the position of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. I so hold.

“As I have noted above, the Plaintiff did not file a Reply Affidavit to dispute the facts contained in paragraphs 4(i) — (y) of the 1st Defendant’s Counter Affidavit. The legal implication of this failure is that the contentions of the 1st Defendant are deemed to be true.

“In the final analysis, I find that, the evidence before this Court points to the conclusion that the 1st Defendant has only been elected into the Office of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria on one (1) previous occasion, which said occasion was in the General Elections conducted in year 2011. And I so hold.
On the provisions of Section 137(3) of the Constitution, Dashem stated that Jonathan was sworn in as president in 2010, to complete the tenure of late President Umaru Yar’Adua and again in 2011, after he won the 2011 presidential election.

He agreed with Jonathan’s submissions that the said provisions, which sought to bar persons who completed another’s tenure from contesting twice, did not apply to him because the law was passed in 2018, when he already had the right to contest and contested in the 2015, general elections.
Dashem said, “As I have held above, the provisions of sub-Section (3) of Section 137 of the Constitution was not part of our Constitution prior to June 7, 2018, when same took effect. It, therefore, follows that the provisions of sub-section (3) was not the position of our law at all material times before June 7, 2018. It also follows that, prior to June 7, 2018, no restriction was placed on the number of times a person who was sworn-in to complete the term of office of a President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria can be re-elected into that Office.

“The 1st Defendant has argued that, since he acquired his right to contest and, if successful, be sworn-in as President after he lost his re-election bid, in 2025, to the current President – President Muhammadu Buhari – it would be unethical to the spirit and intendment of the legislature to take away the right he acquired in year 2015 on the basis of a law that came into effect in 2018.

“Now, the position of the law on retroactive or retrospective application of laws is quite settled. Retroactive laws are which relate or cover matters or acts which occurred before its commencement date.”

The judge added, “Despite my best efforts, I fail to see where the legislature expressed their intention, by express and unequivocal words, that the provisions of subsection (3) of Section 137 of the Constitution should be accorded retrospective application.

“In the absence of such express words, I am constrained to hold that the provisions of Section 137(3) do not enjoy retrospective application. The application and enforceability of the said subsection can only be construed to apply with effect from June 7, 2018. And I so hold.

“In my opinion, the position being propounded by the 1st Defendant is not only tenable but accords with the position of the law. It is the duty of the Plaintiffs to point or direct this Court to where the legislature stated that the provisions of Section 137(3) of the Constitution apply to events and/or rights which have been acquired and/or have been vested in parties prior to June 7, 2018.

“The law is that, he who asserts must prove. See: Section 131(1) of the Evidence Act, 2011. It therefore, behoved the Plaintiffs to provide this Court with facts to support their case. In the absence of such proof, I find that the Plaintiffs have not discharged the burden of proof placed on them by law.

“I, therefore, find merit in the argument of the 1st Defendant that the introduction of sub-section (3) of Section 137 of the Constitution does not affect his right to contest for the Office of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in the 2023 General Elections and be sworn-in as such, should he be victorious at the polls.

“As I have noted above, before, in year 2015 when the 1st Defendant lost his re-election bid into the Office of the President, the restriction imposed by subsection (3) to Section 137 was not in existence. This is why the 1st Defendant despite having been sworn-in as President on May 6, 2010 and May 29, 2011, was able to contest for the Office of the President in the 2015 General Elections.

“Had the 1st Defendant been victorious at the 2015 polls, he would have been sworn-in for a third time without any legal impediment. Therefore, the 1st Defendant acquired his right to contest for the Office of the President immediately his term as President ended on May 29, 2015. Clearly, it is incontrovertible that the Ist Defendant’s right to contest and be sworn-in as President accrued to and was vested in him on May 29, 2015. And I so hold.

“In the final analysis, I answer Question 1 formulated by the Plaintiffs in their Originating Summons in the affirmative.

“I declare that, the provisions of Section 137(3) of the Constitution acquired the force of law with effect from June 7, 2018 and same does not have retrospective application.

“I also declare that, the 1st Defendant is not disqualified by the provisions of Section 137(1)(b) and (3) of the Constitution from contesting for election into the Office of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in the 2023 General Elections.

“Having answered Question 1 in the affirmative, the necessity to answer Questions 2 and 3 have been obviated. However, for the avoidance of doubt, I answer Question 2 in the affirmative also whilst I answer Question 3 in the negative.

“In the final analysis, I answer questions 1 and 2 posed in the Originating Summons in favour of the 1st Defendant and question 3 in the negative and therefore against the 3rd Defendant.

“Consequently, I enter Judgement for the I Defendant and all the reliefs sought by the Plaintiffs in their Originating Summons dated May 16, 2022 (but filed on May 17, 2022) fail and are all hereby dismissed.”

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Nigeria Hails Finland’s Conviction of Simon Ekpa on Terrorism-related Crimes

Nigeria Hails Finland’s Conviction of Simon Ekpa on Terrorism-related Crimes

•Says it’s major victory in fight against terror
•Chief of Defence Staff, Fagbemi applaud ruling
•Learn from Finland, NBA, RULAAC tell judges, prosecutors
•Lawyers task govt on security, welfare of citizen

Deji Elumoye, Alex Enumah, Linus Aleke in Abuja and Wale Igbintade in Lagos

The Nigerian government yesterday welcomed the conviction of Biafran irredentist, Simon Ekpa, in Finland for terrorism-related crimes, describing the verdict as a bold step towards justice and a victory against violence.

Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, in a post on his verified X handle, @HMMohammed, described the sentencing of Ekpa to six years’ imprisonment as a major victory for the Nigerian people in the collective fight against terror.

Idris, in the post, stated, “We welcome the news of Simon Ekpa’s conviction by a Finland court for terrorism-related crimes, and his sentencing to six years in prison.

“A major victory for the Nigerian people in the collective fight against terror.”

Similarly, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, applauded the judgement delivered by the Päijät-Häme District Court in Finland.
Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Mr. Lateef Fagbemi, described the conviction as “good news”.

Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and a civil society organisation, Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC), urged the government to emulate the good example set by the Finnish District Court in convicting and sentencing perpetrators of terrorism.

In its judgement delivered yesterday, the three-member panel of judges ruled that Ekpa incited terrorism, participated in the activities of a terrorist organisation, and exploited his “significant social media following” to spread violent propaganda and destabilise Nigeria’s south-east region between August 2021 and November 2024.

According to Finnish newspaper, Yle, the court held that Ekpa was not merely a commentator but an influential member of a militant separatist movement intent on carving out an independent Biafra state from Nigeria.

The judges found that he issued direct calls to violence on social media platforms, especially X, and encouraged attacks on Nigerian security operatives.
Beyond online incitement, the court further determined that Ekpa facilitated the supply of weapons, explosives, and ammunition to armed groups in Nigeria “through his network of contacts in the region”.

Prosecutors also presented evidence of aggravated tax fraud and breaches of the Attorneys Act, which the court upheld.

Ekpa, who moved to Finland in 2007 as an athlete, had previously been a member of the National Coalition Party (NCP) and once served on Lahti’s public transport board.

He rose to prominence after the extradition of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader Nnamdi Kanu in 2021, when he was appointed lead broadcaster for Radio Biafra.

However, he was later dismissed by IPOB over disagreements regarding operational rules, prompting him to establish a splinter secessionist movement.
From Finland, Ekpa routinely issued “sit-at-home” orders in Nigeria’s South-east and urged violent resistance against authorities.
His directives were frequently disowned by IPOB, which repeatedly sought to distance itself from his activities.

Finnish authorities, working closely with Nigerian security agencies, launched an extensive investigation into Ekpa’s activities.
During police interviews, he denied all charges, including allegations of ordering weapons for separatist groups.

His defence lawyer, Kaarle Gummerus, argued that much of the evidence relied on reports from Nigeria, raising questions about their reliability.
Nevertheless, state prosecutor Sampsa Hakala insisted the case was built on “a great deal of evidence” showing Ekpa’s active online role in supporting terrorism.
While acknowledging difficulties in verifying events that occurred in Africa, prosecutors argued that his coordinated propaganda from Finland constituted terrorism under Finnish law.

Ekpa was arrested in Finland in November 2024.

By March 2025, the Nigerian federal government officially designated him a “terrorism financier.”

The conviction cemented his fall from political activism in Finland to being branded an international security threat.
The verdict represents one of the most high-profile cases in Finland linking local residents to terrorism abroad.
Fagbemi said the conviction was “good news”.

He said the development was a confirmation that Ekpa had influenced and committed heinous crimes against the Nigerian people, especially in the South-east.
The AGF stressed, in a statement he personally signed, “We commend the Finnish authorities for supporting Nigeria in the fight against insecurity and see this as a signal of future collaboration.

“Appropriate further actions would be taken upon receipt and under-studying a copy of the judgment of the court.”

Musa equally applauded the judgement delivered by the Päijät-Häme District Court in Finland.

He described the ruling as a landmark victory in the global effort to combat terrorism and violent extremism, stating that the conviction reinforces the principle that those who incite violence and fund terrorism will be held accountable, regardless of their location.

In a statement celebrating the judgement, signed by Acting Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, the CDS said, “This judgement sends a strong message that there is no safe haven for individuals or groups who sponsor or encourage acts of terror against Nigeria or any other sovereign state.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria commend the Finnish authorities for their diligence in ensuring justice is served.”

Musa extended deep appreciation to Nigerian intelligence agencies and diplomats for their unwavering collaboration and painstaking efforts in providing actionable evidence that led to Ekpa’s conviction.

He stated that the success reflected the power of international cooperation and collaboration in addressing transnational threats.
Musa reaffirmed the armed forces’ resolve to continue working with global partners to dismantle terrorist networks and ensure lasting peace and security across Nigeria.

He called on all Nigerians to remain vigilant and support security agencies in the ongoing fight against insurgency and violent separatist movements.
NBA called on Nigerian judges and prosecutors to take a cue from Finland, following the speedy trial and conviction of Ekpa.

Reacting to the conviction, President of NBA, Mr. Afam Osigwe, SAN, who said he was yet to get the full details of the Finland court judgement, stated that he was very impressed with the short time it took to conclude investigation and trial. Osigwe stated this while presenting the communique from NBA’s Annual General Conference (AGC), which held in Enugu, recently.

“I look at the time it took to do the trial, and the sort of evidence relied on by the court in order for them to arrive at a decision. That should be a lesson for us,” he said.

The NBA president stated that trials took a longer time in Nigeria because “most judges still write longhand” instead of embracing technology. He added that investigators and prosecutors should endeavour to get enough evidence, build up a good case, before going to court.

Osigwe also called on security agencies to rise up to their responsibilities in checking abuse of social media, adding, “Persons who have access to social media should be careful how they utilise them to promote hate or terrorism.”

He said, “We should look at those who are using it to provide ethnic hatred, to promote terrorism, and get hold of such, and try them,” rather than filing cyber-bullying charge against citizens in political matters.

Similarly, RULAAC urged the government to emulate the good example set by the Finnish District Court in convicting and sentencing perpetrators of terrorism.
Executive Director of RULAAC, Okechukwu Nwanguma, in a statement yesterday, said the sentencing of Ekpa was both a welcome development and a sobering reminder of the Nigerian government’s chronic failure to confront insecurity and hold perpetrators of violence accountable at home.

According to Nwanguma, “Ekpa, who styled himself as the ‘Prime Minister of the Biafra Government in Exile,’ exploited the pains and frustrations in Nigeria’s South-east to incite violence, mobilise armed groups, and promote bloodshed through social media.

“The Finnish court found that his activities crossed the line from political agitation to terrorism — organising armed groups, facilitating weapons acquisition, and urging his followers to commit crimes in Nigeria.”

He stressed that the fact that justice was delivered not in Nigeria but in faraway Finland was deeply telling.

The executive director added, “A foreign government investigated, prosecuted, and convicted a man for sponsoring terrorism that has killed and maimed Nigerians, while our own authorities looked away.

“This is not only an indictment of Simon Ekpa but also of a Nigerian state that continues to play politics with terrorism, corruption, and insecurity.
“We have seen this pattern before. The UK tried and sentenced James Ibori, a former Nigerian governor, for corruption — even as the EFCC and Nigerian courts prevaricated and allowed him to escape justice at home.

“Now, Finland has done what Nigeria failed to do with Ekpa: hold him accountable for his role in the violence that has devastated communities in the South-east.”
Nwanguma, however, regretted that those who orchestrated violence locally — whether in the guise of “unknown gunmen,” political thugs, or militias — were hardly ever investigated, let alone prosecuted.

He lamented that ordinary citizens, journalists, and peaceful protesters, rather than actual criminals, bore the brunt of police and military crackdowns in Nigeria.
Nwanguma said the Nigerian government could not continue to outsource justice to foreign jurisdictions.

He stated, “It must demonstrate the political will to investigate, prosecute, and punish terrorism and corruption at home — no matter who is involved. Selective justice and impunity only fuel the cycle of violence and erode public trust in institutions.”

He explained that Ekpa’s conviction should serve both as vindication for his countless victims in the South-east and as a wake-up call to the Nigerian authorities, as justice delayed was not only justice denied, it was justice outsourced.

Meanwhile, NBA faulted the invitation of awardees of the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) by the Department of State Services.

According to the body, sending a confidential report in respect of each of the awardees would have been enough instead of the grilling of the nominees.
“It does not require DSS inviting them,” said Osigwe. He added, “Unfortunately, our members went there without informing us.”

NBA Life Bencher and former General Secretary, Aare Olumuyiwa Akinboro, SAN, had condemned the clearance of awardees by DSS, stating that it undermines the independence of the legal profession.

However, the Supreme Court, in its response, had pointed out that the screening was in line with Paragraph 23 (2) of the Legal Practitioners’ Privileges Committee Guidelines, the body conferring the SAN rank on the lawyers.

But NBA said the job of DSS should not go beyond sending confidential report on a nominee, because most of the information had already been volunteered by the lawyers themselves, including report from judges before whom the lawyers appeared.

“Court records are there, heads of courts also write confidential report,” Osigwe added.

Furthermore, NBA dismissed cries in some quarters over the role played by some new wigs during the conference.

Some lawyers had raised eyebrows over the roles played by former Kogi Senator, Dino Melaye, former aviation minister and former Chairman of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Osita Chidoka, and rights activists, Mr. Deji Adeyanju.

Osigwe, who was flanked by NBA General Secretary, Dr. Mobolaji Ojibara, spokesperson Bridget Edokwe, and other executives, stated that the decision was part of the body’s campaign to ensure an inclusive bar. He insisted NBA will not shy away from allowing young lawyers to speak at its conferences.
Osigwe pointed out that while Melaye spoke from the standpoint of his legislative oversight functions at the National Assembly, Chidoka, as a former minister and head of FRSC, was well qualified to speak at the conference.

Reacting to the issue of seniority at the bar, Osigwe said, “I’m not the most senior SAN.”

He stated that wisdom did not lie with age, stressing that people who have anything to offer would always be given the opportunity to do so. He added that young lawyers constituted majority of attendees at the conference.

Speaking on the outcome of the recent AGC, Osigwe stated that the conference, among others, observed as follows, “There is a growing divide between the affluent and the underprivileged in Nigerian society.

“Many Nigerian laws are outdated and do not reflect contemporary societal realities.

“The poor are often denied legal recourse due to financial constraints and other systemic barriers.

“There is a need for the legal professions to guide society in the direction of legal reform, social justice, and the rule of law.”

Part of the resolutions/recommendations made at the conference was the call on NBA to lead the charge in modernising the legal system to enhance the delivery of justice and alignment with international best practices.

The body, while charging both the federal government and state governments to ensure implementation of the minimum wage, assured that it would lead by example by ensuring law firms payed their staff above the minimum wage.

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•Says it’s major victory in fight against terror•Chief of Defence Staff, Fagbemi applaud ruling•Learn from Finland, NBA, RULAAC tell judges, prosecutors•Lawyers task govt on security, welfare of citizen Deji Elumoye,
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Tinubu: No Nigerian is Second-class Citizen, Reiterates Every Region Being Carried Along in His Government

Tinubu: No Nigerian is Second-class Citizen, Reiterates Every Region Being Carried Along in His Government

•Says he’s on oath to serve all Nigerians, not a particular section

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

President Bola Tinubu, yesterday, declared that in his over two-year-old administration, no Nigerian was being regarded as second-class citizen, while no region was left behind in developmental efforts.
Tinubu, in a verified post on his handle, @officialABAT, stressed that he was on oath to serve all Nigerians and not a particular section of the country.
He listed several projects, including bridges, roads, rail, health centres, as well as power, agriculture, and oil and gas schemes spread across the six geo-political zones being executed by his government.
Tinubu, in the post, stated, “Dear Nigerians, I took an oath to serve all Nigerians, not a section. That oath guides every bridge, road, rail, power, and health project we deliver.
“From the Lagos–Calabar Highway in the South to the Sokoto–Badagry Superhighway in the North; from Port Harcourt–Maiduguri rail in the East to Abuja–Kaduna–Kano expressway in the Centre, and the Trans-Saharan highway connecting African countries, these are not local trophies. They are our national assets.
“Health centres are being rehabilitated nationwide, light rail projects in Kano, Kaduna, Lagos & Ogun have been given the green light, 250,000 jobs are being created, power is returning to Kaduna through the revived 255MW power plant, bridges in Onitsha & Bonny reconnect our people, oil exploration is expanding in Bauchi & Gombe, and the AKK pipeline has crossed the Niger.
“Every farmer who needs a road, every trader who needs power, every child who needs a school, every patient who needs care… this is who we are building for.
“This is the equity of Renewed Hope. No Nigerian is second-class; no region is left behind. Together we will rise as one nation, one people, and one destiny. Bet on Nigeria.”

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•Says he’s on oath to serve all Nigerians, not a particular section Deji Elumoye in Abuja President Bola Tinubu, yesterday, declared that in his over two-year-old administration, no Nigerian was
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Tinubu Assures Colombia of Prompt Implementation of All Bilateral Agreements

Tinubu Assures Colombia of Prompt Implementation of All Bilateral Agreements

•As Nigeria, Colombia sign historic MoU to enhance political, economic ties
•Shettima asks both nations to transform potential into tangible economic gains beyond tariff barriers
•Nigeria remains strategic market for Colombia, says Márquez

Deji Elumoye in Abuja

President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening international partnerships and aligning its foreign relations with evolving global trends in trade, politics, and culture.
Tinubu spoke on Monday while receiving in audience Vice President of the Republic of Colombia, Francia Márquez, at State House, Abuja.
He stated that global economic volatility and shifting international policies will necessitate new partners for shared prosperity.
Tinubu assured the delegation of senior government, business, and diplomatic officials from the South American country that Nigeria will replicate the agreements signed with Brazil on aviation and consular issues with Colombia.
He stated that the conclusions of all the bilateral meetings and the agreements signed, under the supervision of Vice President Kashim Shettima, will receive speedy attention.
The president stated, “I believe the vice president and his team have done the job. Our business opportunities with Colombia have already been enhanced. I support every aspect that you have agreed on.
“Particularly for Colombia, the agreement we entered with Brazil can easily be replicated in aviation, and our diplomatic relations can be enhanced. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will accelerate that.”
Tinubu urged the business leaders to explore opportunities in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector and agriculture.
He said Nigeria’s youthful and growing population presented a good market and a skilled workforce to boost investment.
Shettima said the visit by the Colombian vice president would rekindle ancestral connections disrupted by slavery and colonialism, positioning both nations for a prosperous partnership.
He highlighted the political and cultural similarities that would foster healthy economic collaboration.
Similarly, the vice president of Colombia highlighted several areas for the strengthening of bilateral relations, including aviation, visas, political consultations, cultural exchanges, and trade.
Márquez stated, “As the first black Vice President of Colombia, I am extremely delighted to lead this visit to the land of our ancestors. Our ancestors were taken away from Africa centuries ago.”
She said her visit will kick-start a long-lasting relationship built on substantial cultural similarity and heritage.
Márquez assured that relations with Nigeria would benefit both countries, particularly in areas such as social justice, gender equality, and inclusivity.
“We have had a meeting with the business leaders in aviation on the need to start direct flights to Colombia,” she added.
Marquez said Nigeria’s leadership role in Africa and African Union’s role in restoration and reparation will enhance relations with Latin America and the Caribbean.
Earlier on Monday, Nigeria and Colombia signed a historic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on political consultations, opening a new and significant chapter in relations between both countries.
The MoU signed during the Nigeria-Colombia Bilateral Meeting and Business Forum at State House, Abuja, was endorsed by Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, and Deputy Minister, Multilateral Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Colombia, Mauricio Jaramillo Jassir.
Jassir explained that on the bilateral front, the MoU related to “very frequent political dialogue” with Nigeria and visa approvals for its diplomats, thereby making it easier for its diplomats to visit Nigeria.
Speaking at the plenary session of the Nigeria-Colombia Business Forum, Shettima implored both Nigeria and Colombia to take advantage of their abundant potential and turn them into palpable and substantial economic gains. He said this should be driven by the private sectors of the two nations, as they explored new opportunities, deepened partnerships, and addressed common challenges.
According to him, “We cannot achieve that unless we compare our differences and similarities, as well as our resources and potential. This is a practical way to propel trade and investment, improve agriculture, foster culture, and exchange ideas that will mutually benefit our countries.
“The private sectors of our two nations are therefore urged to take advantage of the abundant potential of our countries and transform them into tangible economic gains.”
Shettima also stated that while the scepticism about the global economy and its unpredictable politics were redefining trade patterns, Nigeria had since deemed it necessary to diversify and expand its exports beyond crude oil, with agriculture, minerals, and manufactured products as some of the new areas of concentration.
He said, “The tariffs that confront our exports in other parts of the world are a reminder of the danger of dependence on a narrow base.
“For Nigeria, this is a call to diversify our exports beyond crude oil, expanding into agriculture, minerals, and manufactured products. I believe that Colombia too is bound by the determination to expand its economy beyond the bounds of tariff barriers.”
Responding to the global constraints, the vice president explained that Nigeria was working towards elevating its agriculture from subsistence to mega-business, as well as transforming smallholders into global conglomerates.
According to him, “As a country, we are investing in innovative technologies for livestock breeding, developing machinery, producing chemical-based products, such as fertilisers, herbicides, and pesticides, and creating a strong supply chain. This is also an area where partnerships with Colombia will be vital.
“We must prioritise sectors that are natural pillars of our economies. In agriculture, we share comparative strengths in cocoa, coffee, and tropical fruits. In energy, Nigeria remains a leader in oil and gas, while Colombia has potential in coal and renewable energy.
“In manufacturing, from textiles to machinery, both nations can collaborate to build capacity, exchange knowledge, and attract the kind of investments that secure jobs and prosperity for our peoples.”
To take advantage of the opportunities that abound in their domains, Shettima identified three things both Nigeria and Colombia must do, including monitoring “global trade policies to adapt swiftly”.
He said both nations must diversify exports to reduce dependence on single products, and “create a business environment attractive enough for foreign investors,” adding that by pursuing these, both nations “can turn shifting tides into shared prosperity”.
On cultural ties between both nations, the vice president said, “Our practical roadmap to the future is to acknowledge that culture is a bridge for innovation, economic development, and mutual prosperity.
“Nigeria’s creative sector remains an engine for unleashing the potential of our teeming youth population. Reinforcing our connections in culture, education, science, and technology is fundamental for building a resilient and globally competitive creative economy.
“It is, therefore, time to collaborate in capacity building, skill development, cultural exchange, digital innovation, and intellectual property protection. We must extend our acquaintance to each other’s literature, languages, music, films, arts, and festivals.”
Márquez said her team was in Nigeria to reaffirm bilateral relations, stating that the country remains a strategic market for Colombia.
She stated that Colombia was currently exporting to Nigeria, particularly in the field of leather, adding that she seeks to explore new paths with Nigeria in renewable energy.
Marquez added, “We can make progress in higher education” by connecting Colombian and Nigerian youths.
According to her, the business meeting in Nigeria will allow Nigeria to explore cooperation opportunities and work together in the fields of technology and services for both countries.
She thanked the Nigerian government for the hospitality, assuring, “We will work together for social development, social justice, peace, and security for our people.”
Earlier, Tuggar said Colombia’s history was tied to Nigeria, particularly during the slave trade, when Nigerians found their way to Colombia.
He said the development was an opportunity to strengthen historical and economic ties between both countries and bolster trade, adding that there “is room for improvement” in areas, such as agriculture, hydrocarbons, and pharmaceuticals.
Jassir said it was important for Colombia to diversify its relationship with the world, especially with Nigeria.
For the Colombian side, he stressed the importance of exploring its relations with Nigeria, maintaining that Nigeria remains the best gateway to reinforce bilateral cooperation with Africa. He expressed optimism that the Nigerian side will explore Colombia’s strategic position in South America.
On the bilateral front, Jassir said two MoUs were of interest to Colombia: to have “very frequent political dialogue” with Nigeria and visa approvals for its diplomats so it will be easier for its diplomats to visit Nigeria.
Presenting investment opportunities in Nigeria, Deputy Director of the Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission (NIPC), Mr. Emmanuel Longza, said Nigeria was a strategic location, with a population of 250 million and rich natural resources, while investors could enjoy tax duty waivers, among other incentives.
Longza listed Nigeria’s untapped treasures to include arable lands, solid minerals, crude oil, the creative and art industry, manufacturing, technology, and renewable energy.
In terms of agriculture, Longza said Nigeria had 34 million hectares of arable land, with only 46 per cent currently cultivated, implying there is a huge opportunity for agricultural production across the country.
He added that there were industrial parks across Nigeria designed to boost export-oriented industries while attracting businesses.
On why Colombia mattered to Nigeria, Longza said both countries could collaborate on agricultural opportunities and energy transition, among others.
Delivering the plenary address on Nigeria’s Trade and Investment Landscape (Impact, Achievements, and Opportunities), Nigeria’s Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, said Tinubu had taken bold structural steps to correct long-standing macroeconomic distortions through the removal of the petroleum subsidy, exchange rate unification, and fiscal tightening to restore credibility.
Oduwole added that Nigeria had emerged as the continent’s fintech powerhouse, with top unicorns domiciled in the country.
“As a result, today we are proud to serve as co-champions of digital trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA),” the minister stated.

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•As Nigeria, Colombia sign historic MoU to enhance political, economic ties•Shettima asks both nations to transform potential into tangible economic gains beyond tariff barriers•Nigeria remains strategic market for Colombia, says
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Kekere-Ekun Reassures on Speedy Dispensation of Financial Crime Cases

Kekere-Ekun Reassures on Speedy Dispensation of Financial Crime Cases

Alex Enumah in Abuja

Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has reiterated the commitment of the country’s judiciary towards speedy trial of cases bordering on money laundering and terrorism financing.
Kekere-Ekun gave the reassurance while speaking at the 42nd edition of the Cambridge International Symposium on Economic Crime holding in Cambridge, United Kingdom.
She said Nigeria’s judiciary understood that timely, predictable, and transparent judicial decisions were indispensable in satisfying the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) requirements.
Kekere-Ekun recalled that Nigeria was placed on the FATF Grey List in February 2023, underscoring international concerns about the effectiveness of Nigeria’s Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing (AML/CFT).
While acknowledging the efforts of President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima to ensure Nigeria’s removal from the list, the CJN said listing Nigeria in the FATF Grey list served as a wake-up call, spurring unprecedented national reforms.
She said, “We remain firmly committed to ensuring Nigeria’s exit from the Grey List within the shortest possible time.”
According to her, the Nigerian judiciary remains firmly committed to upholding the rule of law, enhancing judicial efficiency, and playing its role in combating economic crime.
The CJN stated that no single country could adequately confront the challenges of cross-border economic crime alone.
According to her, “We must deepen collaboration across borders through effective mutual legal assistance frameworks, real-time intelligence sharing, judicial cooperation on transnational litigation and asset recovery, and dialogue such as those championed by the Cambridge Symposium, which foster enduring professional relationships and shared best practices.”
She called on judges to continue to adapt doctrines, processes, and attitudes to match the velocity of criminal innovation.
“Judicial conservatism must not be an excuse for inertia; rather, it must be guided by a deep commitment to justice, balance, and international cooperation,” Kekere-Ekun added.
The CJN stated that collaboration with other jurisdictions was already yielding recognition, with FATF’s 2024 review acknowledging Nigeria’s progress in addressing many of the strategic deficiencies.
She declared that the Nigerian judiciary had already undertaken significant improvements in infrastructure, and expanded training for judges on economic and cybercrime matters.
Kekere-Ekun cited recent Supreme Court decision in AG of the Federation v. Princewill Ugonna Anuebunwa, which she said reaffirmed the judiciary’s role in strengthening international cooperation.

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Alex Enumah in Abuja Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has reiterated the commitment of the country’s judiciary towards speedy trial of cases bordering on money laundering and
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21,971 Admission Seekers Jostle for 13,000 Spaces at Unilorin

21,971 Admission Seekers Jostle for 13,000 Spaces at Unilorin

Hammed Shittu in Ilorin

No fewer than 21,971 admission seekers are now jostling for 13,000 spaces at the University of Ilorin in the ongoing Post Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) of the institution for the 2025/2026 academic year.
The Post-UTME admission screening exercise of the University commenced on August 28 and will end on September 4, 2025.
The Director, Computer-Based Test (CBT) Centre, of the institution Prof. Kamilu Rauf disclosed this in Ilorin yesterday during a chat with journalists.
“The exercise, which began with 26 under-age applicants, comprised 20,220 candidates for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) and 1,751 candidates for Direct Entry (DE),” he stated.
Rauf hinted that this year’s figure reflects an increase over last year’s 15,946 UTME and 1,175 Direct Entry candidates.
“About 12,856 candidates were admitted in the 2024/2025 academic session. This year, we recorded an addition of over 4,200 UTME candidates and 576 Direct Entry applicants, which shows that more students are making the University of Ilorin their first choice of institution,” he added.
The Professor of Mathematics attributed the surge in applications to the growing reputation of the university for academic excellence, uninterrupted academic calendar, and efficient administration.
He added that the Post-UTME screening exercise commenced on August 28 with 26 underage candidates out of the 30 expected and will run until September 4, with the final day serving as a mop-up for absentees and candidates for Arabic Studies.
The CBT Director reminded candidates and their parents to adhere strictly to examination guidelines, including dress codes and the prohibition of gadgets such as mobile phones in the examination hall.
He urged parents to avoid crowding the examination venues, stressing that all necessary information is available on the university website: www.unilorin.edu.ng.
Rauf reassured candidates and parents that the university is fully prepared to conduct a hitch-free and seamless exercise, urging all applicants to strictly adhere to the guidelines.
Also speaking, the chairman of the university Admissions Committee, Prof. Abdulazeez Muhammad-Lawal, described the first day of the exercise as successful, noting that the candidates conducted themselves well.
He said, “We were expecting 30 underage candidates to participate today, but 26 of them actually turned up. The examination went smoothly, and the students displayed commendable discipline”.
He, however, cautioned parents against accompanying their wards to the examination venues, stressing that the process requires biometric verification and must remain strictly candidate-centered.
He explained that while a few parents showed up on the first day, the university would not allow such practices during the main examinations.
In a related development, the University Admission Officer, Mr Abdulkareem Sanni, assured the post-UTME candidates that they need not know anyone or pay any amount of money to any individual or organisation before they could be offered admissions to the University of Ilorin.
The Admission Officer explained that all the candidates needed to do is to have all the requirements for their programmes of choice as he stressed the readiness of the University to give all the candidates equal opportunities.
Sanni, who is a Principal Assistant Registrar, explained that admissions would be offered based on the consideration of the Ordinary Level results, UTME) results and the ongoing Post-UTME screening results.
He added that for a candidate to be eligible for admission into the University, he or she must score a minimum of 180 in UTME and five O’level Credits and must also pass the Post-UTME screening.

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Hammed Shittu in Ilorin No fewer than 21,971 admission seekers are now jostling for 13,000 spaces at the University of Ilorin in the ongoing Post Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME)
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UBEC, DLN Distribute 47 Milliion Laptops, Tablets to Students, Teachers

UBEC, DLN Distribute 47 Milliion Laptops, Tablets to Students, Teachers

Kuni Tyessi in Abuja

The Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Digital Learning Network (DLN), to implement a comprehensive National Digital Education Transformation Project to increase access and improve quality of education.
The MoU signed at a brief ceremony at UBEC headquarters yesterday in Abuja, involving the US based corporation is to ensure distribution of 47 million laptops and tablets to students and teachers across Nigeria’s basic education sector – pre-primary, primary, and junior secondary schools.
DLN, working with Deloitte Financial Advisory, UBA Plc., Zenith Bank, and the National Credit Guarantee Company, will fully fund this transformation through private investments from development finance institutions that support its global technology partners and institutional investors.
Executive Secretary of UBEC, Aisha Garba, in her remarks, highlighted the importance of the project, saying the initiative would transform learning in pre-primary, primary, and junior secondary schools, especially in remote and underserved communities.
She noted that the project represents one of the most significant educational technology initiatives globally.
The core components, as detailed in the MoU, include: device deployment involving the distribution of 47 million DLN-branded laptops and tablets pre-loaded with digital textbooks and interactive learning materials fully aligned with the Nigerian curriculum set by the Nigerian Educational Research and Development Council (NERDC).
There would also be the deployment of a robust hybrid internet infrastructure combining 5G, local telecom partnerships, and SpaceX’s Starlink satellite technology to guarantee minimum broadband speeds of 50 Mbps for schools, even in the most remote and rural communities.
The UBEC boss further disclosed that there would also be a nationwide digital pedagogy programme for educators, administrators, and support staff in collaboration with National Teachers’ Institute to ensure alignment with national standards.
According to her, the project involves deployment of Advanced Learning Platform that would see to implementation of an AI-powered Learning Management System (LMS) for real-time student performance tracking, automated grading, and enhanced parent-teacher communication.
On his part, DLN President and CEO, Mr. Thomas Larmena, described the rollout as the largest digital education project in Africa.
“This is a unique opportunity to digitally transform Nigeria’s education sector at no cost to federal or state governments, while keeping costs low for parents and students. We have secured strong global partners including Huawei and Samsung and we are ready to roll out nationwide,” he stated.
He revealed that the project had already begun in Akwa Ibom State, with more states set to join through commitments from the Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF).
“This is a unique opportunity, and for us, with this project, it becomes the largest digital transformation education project across Africa. So we are very proud and very happy to be here, and we want to give a lot of thanks to the executive director and her team for working with us in getting the project to this stage,” he said.

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Kuni Tyessi in Abuja The Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Digital Learning Network (DLN), to implement a comprehensive National Digital Education Transformation
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NUPRC Oversees Concession of First Deepwater Oil Blocks Under 2024 Licensing Round

NUPRC Oversees Concession of First Deepwater Oil Blocks Under 2024 Licensing Round

•Komolafe lauds Tinubu for removing obstacles in oil sector
•Ojulari: New deal moves NNPC closer to achieving 3m bpd, $60bn investment target by 2030
•TotalEnergies says it’s first exploration block by any IOC in 10 years

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja and Peter Uzoho in Lagos

The Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) yesterday supervised the closing ceremonies for the execution of a Production Sharing Contract (PSC) for two offshore oil blocks concessioned by the Nigerian National Petroleum (NNPC) to the TotalEnergies–Sapetro Consortium.
The closeout on the assets, Petroleum Prospecting Licences (PPLs) 2000 and 2001, THISDAY learnt, is coming about nine months after an open and transparent bid process concluded in December 2024 in Lagos threw up the two oil companies.
Speaking at the event in Abuja, the Commission Chief Executive of the NUPRC, Gbenga Komolafe, explained that the deal was made possible by the fresh impetus given to the oil sector by President Bola Tinubu, especially his Executive Orders 40, 41 and 42 which essentially deal with fiscal incentives, local content, and cost efficiency as well as contract timelines.
But Komolafe insisted that every award has very clear terms about its tenure, maintaining that in compliance with current regulatory activities, unexplored acreages are expected to be relinquished in line with the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).
The NUPRC chief executive disclosed that TotalEnergies with over 60 years operations in Nigeria hold 80 per cent contractor interest, and Sapetro with 30 years operations hold 20 per cent contractor interest.
The two offshore blocks, he said, span about 2,000 square kilometres in the prolific Niger Delta Basin, and were a direct product of the transparent, competitive, and reform-driven framework introduced under the PIA.
Stressing that the awardees of 2000 and 2001 licensees have become beneficiaries of the laudable initiatives and reforms of the President, Komolafe urged TotalEnergies and other potential investors to take advantage of the right regulatory, fiscal and governance regime as enthroned by the industry regulator.
Besides, he lauded the NNPC and contractors for their commitment in exploration and production activities in Nigeria, highlighting the successes already recorded in Egina, Akpo and other assets held or operated by the entities.
“This PSC signals the start of a committed work programme that will help us unlock the untapped geological potential of our deepwater, expand our reserves, boost production, and strengthen Nigeria’s energy security. It also affirms our broader vision to make Nigeria the premier destination for upstream investment in Africa,” he pointed out.
According to him, the new PSC framework sets out clear terms and conditions to guide the payment of a signature bonus as stipulated in the licensing round and production bonuses tied to commercial milestones, ensuring value to the federation.
Besides, he stated that the new template will ensure a defined minimum work programme, with the requirement to provide guarantees to assure performance and clear rules on cost recovery and profit oil sharing between the federation and contractors, in line with the fiscal provisions of the PIA and applicable laws.
In the same vein, he said the framework takes very seriously issues surrounding the payment of royalties and taxes, and strict compliance with the host community development obligations as well as provisions for the treatment of associated and non-associated gas and obligations relating to decommissioning and abandonment and environmental remediation fund.
He added: “We therefore count on your operational excellence, innovation, and environmental stewardship as you implement the agreed work programme. We also expect swift and technically sound exploration, leading to early Final Investment Decisions (FIDs).
“We further urge you to deepen local content, create quality jobs, empower Nigerian businesses, develop and produce the asset in line with decarbonisation principles and uphold the highest standards of sustainability, in line with the PIA’s host community provisions,” Komolafe pointed out.
Also speaking at the event, the Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC, Bayo Ojulari, said the PSC is the first that comprehensively covers both crude oil and natural gas in its entire scope, describing it as a milestone.
Ojulari said that tapping non-associated gas in the deep water is one of the areas the industry needed to push the frontiers, highlighting the huge performance incentives, including a $10 million signature bonus, a production bonus of 2 million and 4 million barrels or a cash payment on attainment of 35 million barrels of production.
According to him, the deal brings the NNPC a notch closer to achieving the targets set for it by the president in the next five years.
“The PSC is a major milestone that speaks to the regulator’s commitment to implement the provisions of the PIA and will bring NNPC closer to achieving the target of 3 million barrels per day and additional investments of $60 billion by the end of 2030,” Ojulari said.
In his intervention, the Managing Director of TotalEnergies, Mr. Mathieu Bouyer, mentioned that the International Oil Company (IOC) would be the first of such entities to be awarded an exploration block in the last decade.
“This moment comes after extensive deliberations, rigorous evaluations, and, above all, an open and transparent bid process concluded on December 18, 2024. We are honoured to be the first international oil company to be awarded an exploration block in 10 years and that our joint bid with our partner Sapetro was successful.
“Today marks the formal beginning of what we hope will be another chapter of value creation in Nigeria’s upstream sector. We are eager to progress swiftly and responsibly with the implementation of the agreed work programme for both blocks. We are actively progressing towards spudding our first well on the blocks in the shortest possible timeframe,” he assured.
Also, the Managing Director of Sapetro, Mr. Chukwuemeke Anagbogu, expressed his confidence in the transparency of the process that led to the closeout ceremony.
“For Sapetro, these blocks are of strategic importance. As our current production assets have shown, these new assets provide a clear path to increasing our result base and assuring our longer term production growth. They represent a transformative step forward that will play a vital role in sustaining value creation for our shareholders, our stakeholders and the nation.
“As one of the pioneer indigenous companies in Nigeria’s deep water, Sapetro is deeply committed to strengthening our presence in the sector and contributing to its continued growth.
“By investing in these assets, we reaffirm our alignment with the government’s mission of responsible resource development, local content advancement and inclusive economic progress,” he stated.

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•Komolafe lauds Tinubu for removing obstacles in oil sector•Ojulari: New deal moves NNPC closer to achieving 3m bpd, $60bn investment target by 2030•TotalEnergies says it’s first exploration block by any
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Obi: Life Expectancy in Nigeria Worse Than War-torn Ukraine, S/Sudan

Obi: Life Expectancy in Nigeria Worse Than War-torn Ukraine, S/Sudan

•Describes Rivers council elections as rascality taken too far, mockery of democracy

Chuks Okocha in Abuja

Labour Party’s presidential candidate in 2023, Peter Obi, yesterday, painted a grim picture of life expectancy in Nigeria, stating that living in the country is as good as waiting to die.
In a publication on X, Obi bemoaned Nigeria’s unenviable status of having the lowest life expectancy in the world, with an average of 54.6 years, a record he attributed to a United Nations World Population Prospects 2025 Report.
He also pointed out that as of today, the country held two of the most dangerous health records in the world within just one year. This situation, according to the former Anambra State governor, was “a double tragedy, considering that health is one of the most critical measures of development.”
He also alleged that “another damning report shows that Nigeria is the worst country in the world to give birth, with one maternal death recorded every seven minutes”.
Obi stated, “We continue to hear heart-breaking stories of children losing their mothers during childbirth, and families losing both mother and child.
“These reports are not just statistics—they reflect the daily experience of Nigerian life. Though Nigeria is not officially at war, our life expectancy is now worse than that of war-torn countries, like Ukraine and South Sudan, all because of poor governance and a failing health system.
“These grim realities expose misplaced priorities, bad governance, and the failure to invest in one of the most vital sectors of development: the health and well-being of our citizens.
“We must urgently prioritise healthcare as a cornerstone of building our dear nation.”
A 2018 statistics by the Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS) placed the country’s maternal mortality ratio estimates at 512 deaths per 100,000 live births.
Similarly, the UN in its World Population Prospects report from March/June 2025 indicated that Nigeria’s average life expectancy was around 54.6 years, with men averaging 54.3 years and women 54.9 years.
The report stated, “Nigeria ranks as one of the countries with the lowest life expectancy in the world.”
It attributed the situation to “high infant and maternal mortality rates, infectious diseases, poor healthcare access, poverty, malnutrition, and insecurity”.
Obi described the conduct of local government elections in Rivers State by Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas (rtd), the sole administrator appointed by President Bola Tinubu, as “rascality taken too far, and a mockery of democracy.”
Obi, in a thread on his official X handle, expressed regret that the exercise “represents a double tragedy for our democracy when a Sole Administrator – himself illegally appointed – dares to conduct an election that should empower the people.”
The LP 2023 presidential candidate added, “This is not democracy,” labeling the conduct of the poll as an outright desecration of the very foundation of democracy itself.
“Such actions are unconstitutional, legally untenable, and morally indefensible. They send a dangerous message that the rule of law can be discarded at the whim of those in power.
“But the truth remains unshaken: illegality can never give birth to legitimacy. Any structure erected on a foundation of lawlessness is a danger to both the state and the people.
“Nigeria cannot afford to continue on this perilous path. We cannot pretend to practise democracy while silencing the will of the people – especially at the grassroots, where democracy matters most.”
According to him, if the country must truly seek progress, Nigerians “must uphold the sanctity of the ballot, safeguard the people’s right to choose, and insist that leadership at every level flows from their mandate – not from contraptions that mock democracy.
“Only then will governance have meaning, and only then can the sacred bond of trust between leaders and the people be restored.”

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•Describes Rivers council elections as rascality taken too far, mockery of democracy Chuks Okocha in Abuja Labour Party’s presidential candidate in 2023, Peter Obi, yesterday, painted a grim picture of
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