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Tinubu, Egbetokun, Makinde, Obaseki, Others Mourn as Ex-IG Solomon Arase Passes at 69

Tinubu, Egbetokun, Makinde, Obaseki, Others Mourn as Ex-IG Solomon Arase Passes at 69

*President condoles catholic faithful over demise of ex-Bishop of Francis Okobo 

Deji Elumoye, Linus Aleke in Abuja, Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City and Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan 

President Bola Tinubu, yesterday, joined other Nigerians to commiserate with the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) over the demise of the 18th indigenous Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Solomon Ehigiator Arase. He was aged 69.

The President, in a release by his Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, commiserated with the family, friends and associates of the highly resourceful officer. 

Tinubu acknowledged the dedication of the former IGP to enhancing security in the country, through initiatives such as the Intelligence Response Team, the Complaint Response Unit, and Safer Highway Patrols.

Reflecting on Arase’s laudable service to the country, the president remarked, “Arase served the police force meritoriously from 1981 to 2016. During his career, he led tactical, operational, and intelligence units, including United Nations Peacekeeping in Namibia, the Commissioner of Police in Akwa Ibom, and the Principal Staff Officer to three IGPs.

“He was Assistant Inspector General of Police in charge of Force Intelligence Bureau (FIB), and Deputy Inspector General of Police, Force Criminal Investigation Department.

“After retirement, he continued to serve the nation in various public roles, including as Chairman of the Police Service Commission and as head of the Task Force on implementing the Edo State Anti-Community Development Association Law.

“His expertise extended to consultancy roles with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), the European Centre for Electoral Support, the Human Rights Centre at the University of Oslo, and as a member of the Committee on Prevention of Torture in Geneva, Switzerland.

“I pray for the peaceful repose of the soul of this dedicated security expert, whose experience and contributions will be deeply missed by our nation.”

In a related development, President Tinubu has expressed sadness over the passing of Bishop Francis Emmanuel Okobo, the pioneer Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Nsukka at 88 years old.

“As the pioneer Catholic Bishop of the Nsukka Diocese, Bishop Okobo provided uncommon leadership and direction to the Catholic faithful, leading to the Church’s exponential growth in Nsukka Diocese.

“As a priest and worker in God’s Vineyard, he lived an exemplary and impactful life, building the Church and guiding countless souls with love and wisdom,” the president said.

Tinubu commiserated with Bishop Okobo’s family, the Catholic faithful of Nsukka Diocese, and the people and government of Enugu State on the demise of this shepherd of the flock.

Also, mourning Arase, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, in a statement, revealed that news of the passing of Arase was officially communicated to him by the deceased’s first son, Mr. Solomon Osabohien Arase Jnr.

Egbetokun stressed that his passing was not merely the end of a remarkable chapter, but a moment of collective mourning for a man, who served with pride and honour.

He stated that, through the Solomon Ehigiator Arase Foundation (SEAF), Arase supported academic excellence by awarding scholarships to outstanding Nigerian students, with a particular focus on children of deceased police officers and indigent students.

The Inspector-General of Police, during a condolence visit to the family of the late IGP in Abuja, extended heartfelt condolences—on behalf of the officers and men of the Nigeria Police Force—to the family, friends, and former colleagues of IGP Arase.

Egbetokun acknowledged the pain of this loss and prayed for comfort, strength, and peace for all during this time of grief, while appreciating the late police chief’s contributions to police reform and national security.

On his part, Oyo State Governor, in a statement, described Arase’s death as a massive loss to Nigeria, as according to him, he was, until his death, one of the most resourceful retired IGPs, with experience and expertise that could be useful to the country.

According to him, he shared a personal relationship with Arase dating back to his days as IGP, adding that the Oyo State Government on his watch (Makinde’s) also benefited immensely from Arase’s advice and expertise.

“I have just heard about the death of my big brother, IGP Solomon Arase (rtd). I condole with his family, the people and government of Edo State and the Inspector-General of Police, on this great loss.

“Retired IGP Arase’s death will leave a huge vacuum in the security sector, as he was one of the finest police officers in his days of active service and one of the retired Police Chiefs with experience and expertise that could have been useful to Nigeria in years to come.

“My relationship with him dates back to many years ago and his experience and expertise had proved useful to us in Oyo State at different points. It is my prayer that God grants him a place in paradise and gives his family and friends the fortitude to bear this loss.”

Equally paying tribute, the immediate past governor of Edo State, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, in a statement, said he received with shock, the news of the death of the former IG, describing his death as a monumental loss not only to his immediate family but to Edo State and the country.

Obaseki, who said Arase etched his name in history as the first son of the state to ascend to the exalted office of IG of Police, noted that the he bored that office with uncommon dignity as he Served the country with integrity, courage and exemplary professionalism.

“Dr. Arase etched his name in history as the first Edo son to ascend to the exalted office of Inspector General of Police. He bore that distinction with uncommon dignity, and in that high office, he served Nigeria with integrity, courage, and exemplary professionalism. His career was a legacy of discipline, excellence, and the highest ideals of public service.

“In retirement, he did not retreat from service. With a deep sense of duty to his people, he continued to lend his wisdom and experience. I had the privilege of working closely with him when, as Governor, I appointed him to chair the Edo State Private Property Protection Committee (ESPPPC). 

“In that role, he confronted the decades-long menace of land grabbing with firmness and fairness, restoring order, sanity, and justice to our communities.

“Dr. Arase was much more than a public servant; he was a man of deep humanity, humble yet brilliant, firm yet compassionate, a leader whose life reflected his abiding belief in justice and the common good. His passing leaves a void that will be deeply felt across the nation.

“I extend heartfelt condolences to the Arase family, his friends, colleagues, the Nigeria Police Force, and indeed all Nigerians. May the Almighty grant us all the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss, and may his soul find eternal rest.”

Arase, the immediate past Chairman of the Police Service Commission (PSC) reportedly died at Cedarcrest Hospital in Abuja, yesterday.

Arase, who was the 18th Inspector General of Police, previously served as the head of the Criminal Intelligence and Investigation Bureau, the Force’s top intelligence unit, before his appointment as IGP.

Born on 21 June 1956 in Owan West Local Government Area of Edo State, Arase joined the Nigeria Police Force on 1 December 1981 and retired on 21 June 2016, having reached the mandatory retirement age of 60.

A Political Science graduate of Ahmadu Bello University, he also earned a Law degree from the University of Benin and a Master’s degree from the University of Lagos.

In January 2023, the late President Muhammadu Buhari appointed him Chairman of the Police Service Commission. He held that position until June 2024, when he was removed by President Bola Tinubu.

Arase was widely respected for his reform-driven leadership and dedication to the welfare of police personnel.

As IGP, he spearheaded key reforms, including the establishment of the Intelligence Response Team, the Complaint Response Unit to tackle police misconduct, and the Safer Highway Patrols initiative, which enhanced security for road users nationwide.

Following his retirement, Arase remained active in security reform, especially in the areas of election security and police neutrality.

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*President condoles catholic faithful over demise of ex-Bishop of Francis Okobo  Deji Elumoye, Linus Aleke in Abuja, Adibe Emenyonu in Benin City and Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan  President Bola Tinubu, yesterday, joined other Nigerians to commiserate
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Rivers LG Election: APC Sweeps  20 Chairmanship, PDP Wins 3

Rivers LG Election: APC Sweeps  20 Chairmanship, PDP Wins 3

* It’s an absurdity, declares Atiku

* RSIEC has done a wonderful job, says ex-Deputy Speaker 

Chuks Okocha in Abuja and Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt 

All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State, has won 20 chairmanship seats out of the 23 local government councils in the elections which held on Saturday, August 30, 2025.

The results, which were announced by Chairman of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission, (RSIEC), Dr Michael Odey, indicated that the APC won in Abua/Odual, Ahoada East, Ahoada West, Akuku-Toru, Andoni, Asari-Toru, Bonny, Degema,  Eleme, Emohua, Etche, Gokana, Ikwerre, Khana, Okrika, Omuma, Opobo/Nkoro, Oyigbo and Tai, while PDP won in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni, Obio/Akpor, and PHALGA.

The results were as follow: Abua/Odual, Ofori Owoalabi, 28755 votes (APC); Ahoada East, Solomon Achoma, 54509 (APC); Ahoada West, Eugene Epelle, 84125 votes (APC);Akulga, Bob Fubara 63593 votes (APC); Andoni, Lucky Promise, 126181 votes (APC); and Asalga, George Onegiyeofori, 56383 votes (APC).

Also, Bonny, Abinye Blessing Pepple, 13543 votes (APC);Degema, Michael John Williams, 61536 votes (APC);Eleme, Obarilomate Ollor 77452 vote (APC); Emohua, Chidi Loyd 114380 votes (APC); and Etche, Njoku Boniface, 100649 votes (APC).

Following, too, Gokana,  Dekor Confidence, 96478 votes (APC); Ikwerre, Charles Wobodo,  62746 votes (APC);Khana, Bariere Thomas, 156027 votes (APC); Obio Akpor Gift Worlu,  328823 votes (PDP) and ONELGA, Shedrack Ogbogu, 51051 votes.

There were also Ogu/Bolo, Vincent Nemioboka 36374 votes (APC); Okrika, Akuro Tobin, 32285 votes (APC); Omuma, Obasi Uchechwuku, 38530 votes (APC); Opobo/Nkoro, Barr James A. James, 38822 votes (APC); Oyigbo, Okechukwu Akara, 101495 votes (APC); PHALGA, Allwell Ihunda, 235054 votes (PDP);  and Tai LGA, Mbakpone Okpe, 70,080 votes (APC).

However, reacting, former vice president and chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Atiku Abubakar, has condemned the just concluded local government elections in Rivers State as an absurdity and travesty of democracy.

He also described the election  as shameful and shambolic, while calling on the opposition political parties in  Rivers State to reject the outcome of the election.

In a statement, the former vice-president said, ”The local government election conducted by the occupation government in Rivers State is an awful absurdity and a travesty to the very notion of elective democracy.

”By the shameful and shambolic manner in which the occupation government went ahead to conduct local government elections in Rivers State, it is clear that the ruling APC party is not leaving anyone in doubt that it is prepared to throw caution to the wind in order to achieve an inordinate political advantage.

”It, therefore, becomes necessary to call the attention of well-meaning Nigerians. international community and all friends and partners of Nigeria to the dangerous curve that the President Bola Tinubu regime is taking our dear country.

”I will also call on all opposition parties in Rivers State to reject the local government election on the premise that the occupation government that conducted the exercise is extraneous to our laws, with absolutely no legitimacy to undertake such a crucial and sensitive assignment.

”In the same breath, I wish to share my unflinching solidarity with the good people of Rivers State, who are currently victims of political brigandry to a power cabal which is bent on overturning their democratic rights at all cost.”

Speaking with THISDAY, Legal Adviser, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Rivers State, Okachi Ordu, described the election as one of the best things that happened to the state, saying it was transparent and credible, and would bring peace to the state.

“The election that was conducted on August 30, 2025 is one of the best things that happened in the state, one of the best things that Rivers people are expecting, it’s the best we have ever seen. It’s seamless and rancour-free election and the freest and fairest election we have ever seen in Rivers State.

“This is to say Rivers people have come out once again to speak with their PVC to chose those who will man the affairs of Rivers State. And we PDP stakeholders in Rivers State we are very much happy and all results as being declared here today is well expected and we have accepted the result in good faith and for the good and betterment of Rivers State.”

Also, a former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives and Chairman of the South-South Development Commission (SSDC), Chibudom Nwuche, has applauded RSIEC for the successful conduct of the local government elections in Rivers.

Describing the commission’s efforts as wonderful, Nwuche, who monitored the election as an observer, said the election was peaceful and credible across the 23 local government areas of the state.

He commended the people for coming out en masse to cast their votes and for maintaining decorum throughout the exercise saying there was no report of violence or disturbances in any part of the state. 

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* It’s an absurdity, declares Atiku * RSIEC has done a wonderful job, says ex-Deputy Speaker  Chuks Okocha in Abuja and Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt  All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State, has won 20 chairmanship seats out of the 23
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House Dismisses Alleged Gang-up Against Abbas

House Dismisses Alleged Gang-up Against Abbas

*Confirms their grievances against Speaker

Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja

The House of Representatives, has dismissed reports of any gang-up against Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Abbas Tajudeen.

A national newspaper (not THISDAY), had reported that the lawmakers were preparing for a showdown with the speaker when the House reconvenes on September 23.

However, in a statement, yesterday, spokesperson for the House, Hon. Akin Rotimi, maintained that the lawmakers remained solidly behind Abbas.

He accused the paper of  elevating isolated remarks and informal conversations from House WhatsApp groups as if they represent the official position of any House caucus or the House itself.

“Contrary to insinuations of an impending ‘showdown’, the House remains united under the leadership of Hon. Abbas Tajudeen Speaker of the House. 

“With 360 members from every part of Nigeria, across diverse political, ethnic, and religious backgrounds, the House reflects the nation’s full heterogeneity.

“Honourable Members are free to express opinions in both formal and informal settings on matters affecting their constituencies and privileges. 

“However, such expressions when reported, especially when not balanced by differing viewpoints, do not constitute resolutions or positions of any caucus,” Rotimi noted.

Rotimi stressed that  the House operated according to established parliamentary procedures, through which caucus leaders, committees, or individual members could formally table issues for the leadership or, where necessary, for debate and resolution by the entire chamber. 

He was of the opinion that informal conversations were normal in a vibrant democracy but could not represent official positions.

“It is to the Speaker’s credit that, despite this diversity, the 10th Assembly has remained united, reaching common positions on national issues through consensus building and allowing every Member a voice. 

“The House remains focused on preparing for resumption on September 23, 2025, with renewed commitment to national priorities.

“Some issues referenced in the report conflate genuine concerns with sensationalism. Delayed contractor payments are a national challenge and not peculiar to the constituency projects nominated by Honourable members. 

“For many weeks, the House Leadership, through the Appropriations Committees, has engaged the Honourable Minister of Finance. Payments have commenced and the Leadership is committed to ensuring all outstanding 2024 obligations are settled expeditiously.

“Honourable Members face pressure from constituents expecting nominated projects to be implemented in line with participatory development. 

“The Leadership stresses that, in accordance with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, constituency projects are essential for extending government presence nationwide. While these agitations are valid, they must be understood within current fiscal realities and not misrepresented.”

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*Confirms their grievances against Speaker Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja The House of Representatives, has dismissed reports of any gang-up against Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Abbas Tajudeen. A national newspaper (not THISDAY), had reported that the
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PDP Southwest Chairman Decries FG Withholding LG Funds as Crime to Humanity 

PDP Southwest Chairman Decries FG Withholding LG Funds as Crime to Humanity 

Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo 

The Vice Chairman South West  of the Peoples Democratic party (PDP), Kamorudeen  Ajisafe, weekend, slammed the federal government over the continue withholding of the local governments allocations meant for councils in Osun State, saying the action was an offence against humanity.

Ajisafe also opined that President Bola Tinubu has not reciprocated the good gesture extended to him by Governor Ademola Adeleke, adding that the federal government was depriving Osun people of their fundamental rights to funds and welfare because of politics.

The PDP chieftain, in a telephone interview with THISDAY, stressed that Adeleke should be given credit for the way he has handled the finances of the state despite the absence of local government allocations.

According to him, “Ademola Adeleke of Osun, has declared support for President Bola Tinubu’s second term. Isn’t it the same President that is withholding Osun State local government funds? Let’s see how it goes.

“The people of the state are not fools. If not that the Adeleke family is strong morally and financially, and the governor is committed to good governance, how would the state have survived the blockade?”

He reiterated that Adeleke has been depriving himself of many things to make the state better, saying, “He is not taking security votes and has been travelling on his family’s private jets. He has been saving money to do all the projects in the state.”

He equally remarked that Adeleke has also been paying the half-salary the APC government owed workers, despite the LG funds seizure, and has also been paying pensioners across the board. Let’s give him credit.

“If Nigeria was a nation you and I expect it to be, nobody would have been able to seize the LG funds. You are depriving a lot of people of their fundamental rights to funds and welfare because of politics. That is an offence against mankind,” he said.

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Yinka Kolawole in Osogbo  The Vice Chairman South West  of the Peoples Democratic party (PDP), Kamorudeen  Ajisafe, weekend, slammed the federal government over the continue withholding of the local governments allocations meant for councils
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Union Bank Finalises Merger with Titan Trust Bank

Union Bank Finalises Merger with Titan Trust Bank

Nume Ekeghe

Union Bank of Nigeria Plc has confirmed the successful completion of its merger with Titan Trust Bank Limited, following the final approval of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

The deal, which began with a Share Sale Agreement in 2021, consolidates Titan Trust’s operations and assets into Union Bank, leaving the 108-year-old institution as the surviving entity.

In a statement issued by the bank’s Chief Brand and Marketing Officer, Mrs. Olufunmilayo Aluko, Union Bank described the merger as a transformative step that combines its long-standing heritage with Titan Trust’s agility and innovation.

The enlarged entity, operating under the Union Bank brand, now boasts 293 service centres, 937 ATMs, and a stronger digital backbone to serve retail, SME, and corporate customers nationwide.

Commenting on the milestone, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Mrs. Yetunde Oni, said: “ This is a pivotal moment in our 108-year journey, and a launchpad for delivering greater value to our customers. By blending stability with innovation, we are better positioned to meet the evolving needs of Nigerians and to be their most trusted financial partner.”
Also speaking on the transaction, Chairman of the Board of Directors, Mr. Bayo Adeleke, said: “This is a new era of growth, collaboration, and shared prosperity. By bringing together the strengths of both institutions, we are committed to creating lasting value for our customers, shareholders, and communities while advancing Nigeria’s financial inclusion agenda.”
Union Bank assured its customers that their account details remain unchanged and services will continue seamlessly, while the bank accelerates its push into enhanced digital solutions.

This strategic consolidation strengthens Union Bank’s market position, unlocks operational synergies, and underscores its ambition to deliver a modern, robust, and inclusive banking experience for all.

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Nume Ekeghe Union Bank of Nigeria Plc has confirmed the successful completion of its merger with Titan Trust Bank Limited, following the final approval of the Central Bank of Nigeria
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