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Stakeholders Set Agenda for Amupitan

Chuks Okocha, Onyebuchi Ezigbo, Alex Enumah, Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja and Sunday Okobi in Lagos

High expectations are trailing the nomination of Prof. Joash Amupitan, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), for the position of Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Stakeholders across the political, civic, and governance spectrum are already outlining key reforms they believe should define his tenure. From restoring public trust to deepening electoral transparency, many say Amupitan must move swiftly to rebuild confidence in Nigeria’s electoral system.

This comes as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and a civil society group, Situation Room, yesterday, challenged the Senate to ensure a transparent confirmation process, warning that Nigerians and the international community are watching how the confirmation would be handled.
Also yesterday, the erstwhile coordinator of President Bola Tinubu legal team at the 2023 presidential election tribunal, Mr. Babatunde Ogala, debunked the involvement of Amupitan, in the defense of the president’s victory at the 2023 general elections.

Amupitan’s nomination was approved yesterday by the Council of State.
THISDAY also gathered that Tinubu has sent his name to the Senate for confirmation.
Amupitan’s nomination for the position coincides with the ongoing for forthcoming off season elections.
His immediate task, if screened and confirmed by the Senate this month, would be to conclude the preparation for the conduction of the Anambra State Governorship election scheduled for November 8.
This would be followed by the Area Council elections in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in February 2026; the Ekiti State Governorship election scheduled for June 2026; while Osun State Governorship election would be held August 2026.

But reacting to Amupitan’s appointment, a group, Vanguard for Credible Representation, said while his appointment should have elicited jubilation, times have shown that people do change.
Its Executive Director, Akinloye Oyeniyi, told THISDAY that he hoped Amupitan practices or executes all his fine recommendations on electoral rule he had canvassed for.

PDP to Senate: Don’t Rush Amupitan’s Confirmation

The PDP yesterday, challenged the Senate over the nomination of Amupitan (SAN) as Chairman of INEC, warning that Nigerians and the international community are watching how the confirmation would be handled.

The opposition party said the Senate must not ‘rubber-stamp’ the nomination, stressing that the credibility of Nigeria’s electoral process, already under public suspicion after the 2023 general elections, now hangs on how transparently the upper chamber manages the confirmation hearing.
The PDP’s National Publicity Secretary and Secretary of the National Convention Sub-Committee on Media and Publicity, Mr. Debo Ologunagba, made the remarks in Abuja, shortly after the inaugural meeting of the Venue Sub-Committee for the PDP 2025 Elective National Convention, chaired by Dr Adebayo Lawal, Deputy Governor of Oyo State.

Amupitan Not Part of Tinubu’s Presidential Election Legal Team, Ogala Clarifies

A Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Mr Babatunde Ogala, yesterday, debunked the involvement of Amupitan, in the defense of the president’s victory at the 2023 general elections.
Ogala, in a statement, described as “false and misleading” viral claims on social media that Amupitan was a member of the Tinubu Presidential Legal Team.

In the statement titled, “RE: False Claims Linking the Newly Appointed INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, SAN to the Tinubu Presidential Legal Team,” Ogala stated that as the erstwhile coordinator of the legal team, “I feel compelled, not as a rejoinder, but in service to truth and public interest, to set the records straight and allay any concerns these malicious fabrications may hove caused among well-meaning Nigerians.”
While stressing that Amupitan, “was never, at any point, a member of the Tinubu Presidential Legal Team,” the coordinator maintained that Amupitan’s name, “does not appear among the over One Hundred and Twenty-three legal practitioners who were formally engaged for that assignment, of whom sixty were distinguished Senior Advocates of Nigeria.”

Besides, the senior lawyer stated that there was no time during the entire process during which Amupitan’s counsel, opinion, or professional service was sought or rendered.
“I therefore challenge anyone peddling this falsehood to produce verifiable evidence to the contrary. In fact, any member of the public may apply for Certified True Copies of all legal processes filed on behalf of the President-Elect (as he then was) to confirm the authenticity of this statement.

“While political discourse is inevitable in any democracy, it is essential that our engagement remains anchored on truth, decency, and national stability”, Ogala added.
The coordinator, while observing that deliberately twisting facts to inflame public sentiment serves no one and only endangers the collective peace, emphasised that Tinubu has lawfully exercised his constitutional prerogative in making this appointment and that the Council of State had approved same.

“It is therefore incumbent upon all responsible citizens, leaders, and media practitioners to reject narratives that are baseless, divisive, unkind, uncharitable, and capable of undermining public trust.

“I reaffirm my unwavering commitment to justice, fairness, and the continued strengthening of our democratic institutions. Let truth, not mischief guide our national conversations”, Ogala urged Nigerians.

INEC: We’re Not in Breach of Federal High Court

INEC yesterday maintained that it was not in breach of a judgment of the Federal High Court, Oshogbo.

The electoral body’s National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun, gave the explanation in statement, while reacting to media reports making the rounds about an order made by the Federal High Court, Oshogbo 11 on 29th September, 2025

It was reported that the court had ordered the arrest of the immediate past INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu for purportedly disobeying its judgment on a case involving the Action Alliance party (AA).

Olumekun noted: “The misleading reports mischievously omitted the Commission’s subsequent action on the case, erroneously portrayed the matter involving a corporate entity, namely INEC, as an individual affair, and gave the wrong impression that the Court gave a fresh order after the initial pronouncement made on 29th September.

“In line with its long-established tradition of always obeying court judgements and orders, the Commission on Monday 6th October 2025, which was still within the deadline, filed processes at the Federal High Court, Oshogbo to show that we had complied with its judgement and order of recognising the Action Alliance’s (AA) executive elected on 7th October 2023 at Abeokuta, Ogun State.

“The dashboard of the Commission’s web site showing compliance was tendered as evidence.”

Olumekun, however, added that when the judgment creditors filed a counter affidavit to complain, the Commission partially complied by listing the names of only four national executives without the National Chairman, Rufai Omoaje.

He explained that the Commission responded by attaching the Notice of Appeal filed by the same Omoaje at the Supreme Court, challenging the judgement of the Court of Appeal sacking him as the National Chairman of the party.

Olumekun noted: “The judgement of the Court of Appeal is superior to that of the federal high court, hence, the Commission cannot list Omoaje’s name as the Chairman of the Action Alliance party when the judgement of the Appeal Court is still subsisting.”

The commission, therefore, appealed to media organisations to fact-check their reports before publication to avoid misleading the public.

INEC: CVR Hits 6.9m in Seven Weeks

The electoral body yesterday, disclosed that the ongoing online Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) has reached 6,856,979.

In breakdown released by the electrical body, females constitute 3,581,562 (52.23 per cent); Males- 3,275,417 (47.77 per cent); Youths between the ages of 18 and 34 years constitute 4,689,63; Students -1,728,384 and PWDs 154,479.

The completed online and physical registration has reached 1,216,048 within six weeks.

It stated: “Completed online pre- registration – 658,766; Physical registration: 557,282; Females: 675,222 (55.53 per cent); Males: 540,826 (44.47 per cent); Youths (18-34): 897,676; Students: 424,126; PWDs: 17,450.”

Chuks Okocha, Onyebuchi Ezigbo, Alex Enumah, Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja and Sunday Okobi in Lagos High expectations are trailing the nomination of Prof. Joash Amupitan, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria

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On International Day of Girl Child, Female CEOs Call for Bold Action to Break Gender Barriers

*First Lady to Nigerians: Let’s support our girls to attain their potential

Deji Elumoye in Abuja, Nume Ekeghe, Dike Onwuamaeze and Sunday Ehigiator

As the world marks the International Day of the Girl Child today, some female Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) in Nigeria have called for urgent and sustained action to eliminate gender-based barriers that continue to hinder the growth and empowerment of women and girls across sectors.
This comes as the wife of the President, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, charged Nigerians to give necessary support to girls in the bid to attain their maximum potential.

In a message yesterday, to mark the 2025 International Year of the Girl-Child, the First Lady also tasked Nigerian parents to remember the daily hustle of the girls.
Mrs Tinubu, in the four-paragraph message stated, inter alia:
“Today, on International Day of the Girl Child, with the theme: “The Girl I am, The Change I lead: Girls on the Frontlines of Crisis,” let us remember the daily struggle of our girls.
“To every brave girl, striving to reach the classroom, walking miles for water, or carrying the quiet strength of displacement, you are seen, you are heard and valued. Your courage lights the way to a brighter future.
“Let us come together to support our girls to reach their maximum potential. Happy International Day of the Girl Child 2025.”

Meanwhile, the women that spoke with THISDAY, included the Director General of Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Dr. Chinyere Almona; Managing Director/CEO of Starzs Investments Company Limited and a Member of the Governing Board of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, Iroghama Ogbeifun; CEO of LemonLime Nigeria Limited, Abiola Yahaya; CEO of Kayque Global, Kemi Quadri; CEO of Tedell Global Resources Limited, Adegbenro Della Ade-Aduke; and Founder of EventzbyTeemah, Fatimah Mafe-Giwa, urged both government and private institutions to create systems that genuinely support women’s growth, rather than merely celebrating them once a year.

The theme for this year is “The Girl I am, the Change I Need, and Girls on the Front Lines of Crises.”
Speaking with THISDAY, Almona, stressed the need to remove financial barriers for women, especially female-owned businesses.
“That will mean that some of these schemes, like education loan should be implemented more broadly so that we can have real tangible results and it should also be inclusive.

“Sometimes when a household is faced with little finance, it begins to prioritise who should go to school and who should not go. I also think that we need to make the school environment conducive for women.
“It should be free from gender based violence. The environment should be safe. We should also have female-friendly sanitation facilities. Thirdly, we need to think about how to integrate digital education and vocational skills early enough at primary and secondary school levels so that people can grow with it. That is developing girls not just for work workplace but giving them live skills.”

The LCCI boss also urged women aspiring to leadership positions in business, public service, or entrepreneurship to, “Dream big, dream, dream, and do not stop dreaming. Secondly, is that they should not be afraid of who they are.

“A lot of girls have the skills and power to do so much, but they are curtailed by culture and even religion. And I will like to say to girls: build your skills because you have to present something to the world. Let their passions drive skill development.”

Managing Director/CEO of Starzs Investments Company Limited and a Member of the Governing Board of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency, Iroghama Ogbeifun, also urged policymakers to remove “mental biases that impede young girls from believing in their ability to lead and innovate.”

She also called for “more representation of women in leadership and innovation,” and “intentionally providing opportunities for young girls to take up leadership positions.”

Yahaya, pointed out that women continue to fight for space in industries where their talent and intellect are often underestimated.

“From the classroom to the corporate boardroom, the girl child is told to shrink; to wait her turn. It’s time to stop waiting. Empowerment means creating policies that allow women to grow on merit, not favours. We must dismantle old stereotypes that say women cannot lead, build, or innovate at scale.”

She stressed that organisations must go beyond symbolic gestures.

She added: “Many companies post about women’s empowerment online but don’t have women in their leadership teams,” she added. “If you say you believe in inclusion, then your hiring, pay structure, and mentorship systems should reflect that belief.”

For Kemi Quadri, gender inclusion must be deliberate and sustained.

“The real estate space remains largely male-dominated,” she said. “It’s not that women aren’t capable, it’s that we’re not given equal access to information, capital, or mentorship. Inclusion should be intentional, not accidental.”

Quadri emphasised the importance of visibility. “When girls see women leading projects, building empires, and breaking barriers, it tells them, ‘I can do it too.’ Visibility inspires possibility. That’s why we must celebrate women in all fields, science, construction, finance, and the arts, not just those who fit traditional moulds.”

Adegbenro Della Ade-Aduke, believes financial empowerment is the key that unlocks other forms of equality.

“We can talk about empowerment all day, but without access to education and finance, the girl child remains trapped,” she said. “A woman with her own income has her own voice. When women earn, families and communities thrive.”

She added that microfinance institutions and government programmes should prioritise women-led enterprises.

“Let’s make credit and funding accessible,” she urged. “Many women have business ideas that can transform their communities, but bureaucracy, collateral requirements, and lack of trust keep them shut out of the system.”

For Fatimah Mafe-Giwa, founder of EventzbyTeemah, empowerment must also address the unseen emotional and societal pressures women face.

“Women are expected to do it all; excel at work, raise families, and never complain,” she said. “Empowerment isn’t just about giving resources; it’s also about creating understanding, flexibility, and support. A mentally healthy woman is a more productive leader.”

She called for workplaces to adopt policies that promote work-life balance. “Flexible work structures, mentorship, and mental health support are not luxuries,” she said. “They are necessities if we truly want women to thrive.”

Across their remarks, the four CEOs agreed that mentorship, education, and representation are critical to building a future where girls can rise without apology.

*First Lady to Nigerians: Let’s support our girls to attain their potential Deji Elumoye in Abuja, Nume Ekeghe, Dike Onwuamaeze and Sunday Ehigiator As the world marks the International Day

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Nigeria Beat Lesotho to Keep 2026 World Cup Hope Alive

Kunle Adwale

The Super Eagles of Nigeria yesterday defeated Lesotho 2-1 in one of the Group C World Cup Qualifying matches at Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, South Africa.
The goals came from the team’s Captain, William Troost-Ekong and debutant, Akor Adams, in an encounter that was far from convincing but secured an important win as rival, South Africa dropped points.

The Super Eagles now have a fighting chance as they look to come from behind to secure a place at the 2026 World Cup. They came into yesterday’s three points shy of Benin and South Africa, who sat second and third in the group.

Nigeria opened the scoring in the 55th minute when Troost-Ekong converted a penalty, giving the visitors the advantage.
The Super Eagles continued to press and control possession, and their efforts were rewarded in the 80th minute when Akor Adams doubled the lead.
At that stage, Nigeria looked comfortable, appearing to have a firm grip on the match.
However, Lesotho refused to go down without a fight as Hlompho Kalake pulled a goal back in the 83rd minute, giving the hosts a lifeline and adding tension to the closing stages.
Despite Lesotho’s late push, Nigeria held on to secure the 2-1 win.
The match lacked intensity for long periods, with both sides struggling to create clear-cut chances until the second half.

Nigeria’s early dominance and clinical finishing proved decisive, while Lesotho’s late goal was not enough to alter the outcome.
This was expected to be a routine outing for the Super Eagles, but, in reality, it was anything but. The Nigerian team was thoroughly uncreative in the first half, resorting to long balls with limited effect as they struggled to break down their hosts.

The second half was a very similar story. The visitors heaped pressure on their opponents, but despite having Victor Osimhen and Tolu Arokodare as twin strikers with Ademola Lookman and Alex Iwobi in supporting roles, they could not convert territory into goals.

The three-time AFCON champions will now face Benin in their final group match next Tuesday, seeking to secure qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America.

The victory keeps Nigeria in contention and provides a crucial boost ahead of their decisive clash.

Meanwhile, a goalless draw for Bafana Bafana, though, meant the Super Eagles took a huge step closer to securing a spot at the summer tournament with one qualifier left to play.

Nigeria must beat The Cheetahs Benin in Uyo by at least two goals and expect South Africa to again drop points against Rwanda on Tuesday to have any hope of hoisting her flag at the 2026 FIFA World Cup finals to be hosted by USA, Canada, and Mexico.

Kunle Adwale The Super Eagles of Nigeria yesterday defeated Lesotho 2-1 in one of the Group C World Cup Qualifying matches at Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane, South Africa.The goals

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No Policy Change on Deducting Costs of Collection at Source by FIRS, NUPRC, NCs Says FG

Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja

The federal government declared yesterday that there was no policy change regarding the deduction of costs of collection at source by revenue-generating agencies.
In a statement issued by the Director, Information and Public Relations, Ministry of Finance, Mohammed Manga, the government said it had not discontinued the practice of allowing revenue-generating agencies such as the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), and the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) to deduct their costs of collection at source.
The clarification, it said, became necessary to address recent media reports suggesting that the federal government had discontinued the practice.

The statement read: “The Federal Ministry of Finance wishes to address recent media reports suggesting that the Federal Government has discontinued the practice of allowing revenue-generating agencies such as the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), and the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) to deduct their cost of collection at source.
“We categorically state that these reports are inaccurate and misleading.

“At no point during his remarks at the Nigeria Development Update (NDU) programme hosted by the World Bank did the Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, announce or imply any change to the existing policy on the cost of collection deductions.

“For the avoidance of doubt, there has been no policy change regarding the deduction of costs of collection at source by revenue-generating agencies. The current framework remains in effect.”

It added that there are ongoing policy discussions in line with the directives of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to review cost of collection structure.

“These discussions are part of broader efforts to enhance transparency, efficiency, and value-for-money in public financial management. However, no final decision has been made on this matter.”

Ndubuisi Francis in Abuja The federal government declared yesterday that there was no policy change regarding the deduction of costs of collection at source by revenue-generating agencies.In a statement issued

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FG Needs Political Will to Free LGs from Stranglehold of Governors, Say CSOs

Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia

The federal government has been urged to muster the political will to free the third tier of government from the vice grips of state governors for democracy to thrive at the grassroots.

The call was made by civil society organisations (CSOs) and participants in a workshop held in Umuahia, the Abia State capital, to strengthen the capacity of LG workers to operate efficient and transparent grassroots administration.

Even with the Supreme Court judgement which declared governors’ confiscation of council funds illegal, the state chief executives have shown no sign of relaxing their stranglehold of their respective LGs.

“Beyond executive orders and court pronouncements, the federal government must demonstrate political will to fully restore LG autonomy,” the CSOs said in a communique issued at the end of the October 1, 2025 workshop.

The participants faulted the provision for the Joint Accounts Allocation Committee (JAAC) in the 1999 Constitution, saying that it was “enabling state-level hijack of funds” thereby crippling the LGs.

According to the CSOs, the federal government could engender full autonomy of LGs by pushing for “speedy and singular amendment of 1999 Constitution to abolish JAAC and empowering INEC (instead of State Electoral Commissions) to conduct LGA elections.”

“Restoring LGAs as a functional third tier will strengthen accountability, local development, and democracy,” the participants stated in their communique.

Though the implementation of full autonomy of the local government system appears to be dragging on, the CSOs expressed optimism that it would eventually happen sooner than expected following the ongoing constitutional amendments.

It was in preparation for the full political and economic autonomy of the 774 LGs that the training programme was organised by the Nigeria Civil Society Situation Room (Situationroom) in partnership with Citizens Centre for Integrated Development and Social Rights (CCIDESOR). The funding support was provided by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) UK.

Themed ‘Economic Literacy and Budget Accountability: A Prelude to Local Government Political and Financial Autonomy’, the training programme brought together over 40 participants including planning and accounts staff of Abìa LGs, and members of the Nigerian Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE).

Other participants included Civil Society Organisations, Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Community Leaders, National Youth Council, National Council for Women Societies, women groups, religious groups, and the media.

The communique endorsed by nine signatories representing the various CSOs, noted that LG is “the closest tier of governance to citizens” hence “its neglect directly undermines citizens’ perception of democracy.”

They commended Abia Governor, Alex Otti, for acknowledging that “without a functional and empowered LGAs the good works (being done by his administration) might not be sustained after his tenure or replicated in the 17 LGAs.”

But the participants tasked Otti to “take the lead in implementing LG autonomy even before constitutional amendments are finalised”, adding that it “will help replicate his works at the Local government levels and sustain local development.”

Abia was urged to ensure budget transparency and participation with all LG budgets made “publicly available and developed through inclusive community processes starting with budget call circulars from the LGAs.”

On spending of federal allocations, the participants stated that such funds to all the LGAs in Abia and the South-east in general “must be spent exclusively within the concerned LGA, with citizens empowered to track utilisation.”

They urged Abia State and other 35 state governments to start sharing internally generated revenue with the LGs, just as the federal government shares its revenue with states and LGs, noting that such sharing arrangements would boost local economy.

On public disclosure of LG finances, the participants emphasised that “annual financial and audit reports of all 17 LGAs in Abia, and across the South-east, must be published in line with the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act.”

Emmanuel Ugwu-Nwogo in Umuahia The federal government has been urged to muster the political will to free the third tier of government from the vice grips of state governors for democracy

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Diri, Ibori, Others Pay Tribute to Alamieyeseigha at 10th Memorial

Prominent Niger Delta leaders, including Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri and former Delta State Governor, James Ibori, have hailed the late Chief Diepreye Alamieyeseigha as a timeless symbol of justice, true federalism, and the struggle for resource control.

They said Chief Alamieyeseigha, who was the first civilian governor of Bayelsa State, represented the voice of the Niger Delta people and that his legacies would continually inspire generations in the quest for justice, fairness and development.

They spoke yesterday, at the 10th memorial anniversary in honour of Alamieyeseigha in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.

Speaking at the event, which had as its theme: “The Niger Delta Voice Through Nigeria’s Soul: Federalism, Resource Control and The Contemporary Nigerian State in The DSP Alamieyeseigha Legacies,” Diri said for Nigeria to make progress, it should practice a federal system of government where the sub-national units enjoy relative autonomy guaranteed by its Constitution.

He described as an aberration the situation where Nigeria, which ought to be operating federalism, controlled the resources of the sub-nationals thereby shortchanging them of their God-given wealth.

Diri averred that if Nigeria operated a federalist structure, agitations from minority ethnic nationalities would largely be reduced.

“If we want this country to move forward, the sub-national governments should not be controlled from the centre. If we want this country to develop, you cannot use the resources from one region to create more local government areas in another region in order to feed that region and then starve the area where these resources are coming from. That is not federalism.

“The Niger Delta people have been robbed through the Land Use Act and we stand against it anywhere and anytime. Nigeria needs to correct these anomalies,” a statement quoted him to have added.

According to the Bayelsa Governor, Alamieyeseigha’s advocacy for resource control, justice and environmental rights was not only for the Niger Delta people but for the progress of the country.

He urged the Niger Delta people to be united and build a common front in the fight for resource control and not allow party politics and personal interests get in the way of their collective struggle.

Diri emphasised the need to utilise intellectual and diplomatic means in their quest to achieve justice, fairness and bring about the much needed development of the region.

“We have elevated party politics above our unity. That is part of the politics of oil and gas, which is meant to keep us divided.”

Similarly, Ibori, who described Alamieyeseigha as his bosom friend while they were colleague-governors, said the late Ijaw Governor-General was never scared in the defense of his people.

Ibori claimed that, like Martin Luther King, the ‘bullet’ that took Alamieyeseigha was fabricated, encouraged, and delivered by the Nigerian State.

He, however, expressed satisfaction that what his departed comrade stood and advocated for has continued to live on and would not die.

Ibori, appreciated Diri for strengthening Alamieyeseigha’s legacies and the Ijaw struggle through the annual memorial anniversary by the state government.

The keynote speaker, Prof. Ibaba S. Ibaba, said Alamieyeseigha’s emergence as Bayelsa Governor marked a defining moment in the Ijaw and Niger Deta struggle for equity and justice.

Ibaba, described the Niger Delta as an embodiment of Nigeria’s paradox of wealth amid pervasive poverty and underdevelopment, which he noted led to the famous Kaiama Declaration and the Ogoni Bill of Rights.

He stressed that the late hero, in his speeches and actions, took the Niger Delta agitation into the heart of the national debate, placing Bayelsa and the region firmly on Nigeria’s national map of political reckoning.

According to the erudite political scholar, federalism for Alamieyeseigha and people of the Niger Delta was meaningful only if it guaranteed control over resources for development, dignity, and survival.

The event, which featured a panel of discussants anchored by broadcast journalist, Dr. Reuben Abati, had environmental rights activist, Annkio Briggs, foremost Ijaw activist, Elder Timi Ogoriba, and a former House of Reps member and former Secretary to Bayelsa State Government, Prof. Steve Azaiki.

Dignitaries present included the Bayelsa deputy governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, the immediate past deputy governor, Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John-Jonah (rtd), wife of the late governor, Mrs. Margaret Alamieyeseigha, National Chairman of the Pan-Niger Delta Forum, Amb. Boladei Igali, and President of the Ijaw National Congress, Prof. Benjamin Okaba.

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Jonathan Has Agreed to Meet Tinubu Over Nnamdi Kanu’s Detention, Says Sowore

Sunday Ehigiator

Former presidential candidate of the African Action Congress and human rights activist, Omoyele Sowore, yesterday, disclosed that former President Goodluck Jonathan has agreed to meet with President Bola Tinubu over the continued detention of the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu.

Sowore who disclosed this in a post on his X handle after a meeting with Jonathan in Abuja, said they discussed the urgent and compelling need to resolve Kanu’s case.

The activist wrote: “Earlier today in Abuja, I met with former President @GEJonathan (Goodluck Jonathan) to discuss the continued incarceration of Mazi @NnamdiKanu.”

Sowore said Jonathan welcomed the need to address Kanu’s case in the interest of justice and national unity.

He added, “President Jonathan agreed that there is an urgent and compelling need to address this matter decisively and justly. I thank him sincerely for recognising the importance of resolving Kanu’s case in the interest of peace, fairness, and national healing.

“Particularly assuring was that he promised to meet @officialabat (President Bola Tinubu) to discuss this issue as soon as possible.”

Sowore further stated that Jonathan’s intervention adds to the growing voices calling for Kanu’s release.

“A list that already includes ex-Vice President @atiku, Femi Falana SAN, Senator @ShehuSani, and many others across political and regional divides,” he said.

He added that the IPOB leader “remains in detention today because he took up the just cause of confronting the long-standing issue of marginalisation in Nigeria.”

He also called on key political, cultural, and religious figures such as Peter Obi, Chukwuma Soludo, Alex Otti, Francis Nwifuru, Peter Mbah, Hope Uzodinma, Oby Ezekwesili, and Ohanaeze Ndigbo’s John Mbata to lend their voices to the demand for Kanu’s release.

Sunday Ehigiator Former presidential candidate of the African Action Congress and human rights activist, Omoyele Sowore, yesterday, disclosed that former President Goodluck Jonathan has agreed to meet with President Bola Tinubu

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Akpabio Tasks South-South Development Commission on Project Devt, Economic Renewal

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja

President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has charged the newly inaugurated board and management of the South-South Development Commission (SSDC) to pursue projects and programmes that would meaningfully transform the lives of people in the region and align with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

Akpabio gave the charge yesterday when the board of the Commission, led by its Chairman, Prince Chibudom Nwuche, paid him a courtesy visit at the National Assembly, Abuja.

He said the SSDC carries a huge responsibility to drive economic growth and sustainable development across the six states of the South-south, stressing that its establishment represents a fresh opportunity to correct past mistakes and deliver real value to the people.

The Senate President said, “The ball is now in your court to add value to the South-south region through this development commission.

“You have a lot of responsibilities to develop the region. I want you to know that it is not a bonanza.

“It is a call to service, a call to put on your thinking cap to add value to the economy of the nation and to advance the Renewed Hope Agenda of the President who set up this Commission.”

The Senate President commended President Tinubu for creating the SSDC, describing it as a demonstration of the federal government’s commitment to the equitable development of all regions.

He also thanked members of the National Assembly for passing the bill establishing the Commission despite initial hesitation due to the existence of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).

According to him, the SSDC has a broader mandate beyond oil-producing communities, as it covers every part of the South-south region and is expected to complement other interventionist agencies in addressing development gaps.

He said, “I congratulate the President and thank him for finding it necessary to give us the South-South Development Commission. The Niger Delta has been good to Nigeria.

“We have kept the economy of the nation going, and so, giving us this opportunity to further develop other resources in the region shows that Nigeria also cares about us,” Akpabio said.

He assured the board that the National Assembly would ensure adequate budgetary provisions for the new Commission and other regional development agencies across the country.

He said, “We shall continue to support you to fully take off and execute big projects that we shall come and commission.

“You can count on me, my office, and my colleagues. We will support you to make sure you are adequately funded and positioned to succeed.”

Earlier, the Chairman of the Commission, Prince Nwuche, expressed appreciation to President Tinubu, Senator Akpabio, and the National Assembly for their collective efforts in establishing the SSDC, describing the process as an act of visionary leadership.

Sunday Aborisade in Abuja President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has charged the newly inaugurated board and management of the South-South Development Commission (SSDC) to pursue projects and programmes that would

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Osun LG Crisis: Council Funds Intact with Us, UBA Tells Court

Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan

An Oyo State High Court sitting in Ibadan yesterday fixed Tuesday for ruling on applications filed by the United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc and other defendants in the suit instituted by the Attorney General of Osun State and one other person as claimants.

The applications before the court include one filed by UBA seeking an adjournment sine die (indefinitely) and another challenging the court’s jurisdiction, filed by counsel to the sacked All Progressives Congress (APC) local government chairmen, Mr. Kazeem Gbadamosi, SAN.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) also filed applications seeking to be joined in the suit.

The UBA through its counsel, Mr. Mutalib Adebayo Ojo, while asking for the case to be adjourned indefinitely pending the judgement of the Supreme Court on a related case, told the court that the local government funds in contention were still in its safe custody and untouched by any party.

He noted that the substantive dispute had already been heard by the Supreme Court, which has reserved judgement, adding that any ruling by the lower court might conflict with the apex court’s eventual decision.

According to him, “If this High Court proceeds to hear the suit, there is a 50-50 chance that whatever decision it makes may conflict with the outcome of the Supreme Court. The issue here concerns the hierarchy of courts. Proceeding further may amount to a waste of judicial time since the Supreme Court’s decision will ultimately prevail.”

However, counsel to the sacked APC chairmen, Mr. Gbadamosi, SAN, opposed the application, urging the court not to grant it until the issue of jurisdiction had been addressed while describing the bank’s application as “an anomaly” that should not be entertained.

He argued, “From the defendants’ originating summons, it is clear that there is a pending suit before the Supreme Court upon which this current case and its reliefs are predicated. This present suit was filed subsequently after the Supreme Court case was instituted. That in itself constitutes an abuse of court process which this court must not condone.”

In his response, counsel to the plaintiffs, Mr. Musibau Adetunbi, SAN, countered the submissions, explaining that his clients approached the court only after discovering that federal agencies, including the CBN and the Accountant General of the Federation, had transferred the disputed funds to UBA despite the pending case at the Supreme Court.

“If the money had not been moved from the CBN, we would not have come before this court. The Supreme Court does not have original jurisdiction over UBA, but this High Court does, hence our action,” he stated.

He added that the suit could not be deemed an abuse of process since it arose from new facts, specifically, the unlawful movement of funds to UBA by federal agencies.

After hearing extensive arguments and counterarguments from all counsel, Justice Akintola retired briefly to his chambers before adjourning the matter for ruling on Tuesday next week, stating that the adjournment will allow sufficient time for a well-considered ruling on the various applications.

Kemi Olaitan in Ibadan An Oyo State High Court sitting in Ibadan yesterday fixed Tuesday for ruling on applications filed by the United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc and other defendants

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Vatsas’ Pardon: Our Greatest Moment Of Joy, He Was Framed Up, Says Family

.Fubara lauds Tinubu for pardon, national honours for Ogoni 13

.Saro-Wiwa, 8 others didn’t commit any crime, says Falana

Laleye Dipo in Minna, Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt

The family of late General Mamman Vatsa granted presidential pardon by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday has described the action “as our greatest moment of joy since the late Vatsa was executed 39 years ago,” insisting he was framed up.

This was as Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for his decision to pardon the Ogoni 9, and the prestigious national honours awards on the Ogoni four.

But human rights lawyer, Femi Falana, SAN, has stated that late environmental rights activist, Ken Saro-Wiwa and eight other sons of Ogoniland executed by the military regime of General Sani Abacha in 1995, did not commit the crime for which they were accused, convicted and murdered. He urged the federal government to exonerate and tender an apology.

General Vatsa was executed along with nine others in 1986 when a military tribunal found them guilty of coup plot.

The family in a statement made available to journalists in Minna, Niger State capital, yesterday and signed by a former Commissioner for Information in the state, Mr. Jonathan Vatsa, said “President Tinubu has wiped away the tears of the family after 39 years of sorrow and sadness.

“After several appeals to successive administrations, God has finally used President Tinubu to console our family, the Gulu Vatsa community, Lapai local government and the entire Niger State.

“Today (Friday) is the happiest moment in the life of the family after 39 years of sorrow and sadness following the killing of our late father, brother and uncle.

“Though nothing can bring him back to life, the family is consoled by this display of statesmanship by our dear President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.”

Vatsa further said, “Justice can never be denied but can only be delayed, the family is convinced that the late Vatsa must be a happy person today in his grave by this singular act of compassion by President Tinubu,” adding that, “This goes to show that truth doesn’t expire.”

He said the family continues to hold strongly that late General Vatsa was not involved in the coup plot and was “framed up” and “the trial, a stage managed one just to eliminate the late Vatsa out of envy and hatred for a man who has a root and identity.”

The conviction of the family, according to Vatsa, was also reinforced when “a highly respected Military General, late Domkat Bali once said in an interview that the evidence against General Vatsa was weak and that he doesn’t know whether he was supposed to have been killed.

“That is why the family still maintains that the late Vatsa was innocent of the coup. But we still thank President Tinubu for his magnanimity in granting him the state pardon.”

The statement said President Tinubu by the action “has written his name in gold and history will forever remember him.”

Meanwhile, Governor Fubara said the said presidential pardon and national honours awards will promote genuine reconciliation, guarantee enduring peace and unity within the Ogoni communities, and also help accelerate sustainable development in the State.

The Ogoni 9: Ken Saro-Wiwa, Saturday Dobee, Nordu Eawo, Daniel Gboko, Paul Levera, Felix Nuate, Baribor Bera, Barinem Kiobel, and John Kpuine were granted posthumous pardon for their “exemplary service to Nigeria and in particular to promote reconciliation within the Ogoni community.”

In the same token, the Ogoni 4: Chiefs Albert Badey, Edward Kobani, Samuel Orage, and Theophilus Orage were awarded national honours for their patriotism to Nigeria and in particular to promote reconciliation within the Ogoni community.

While reassuring President Tinubu of the commitment of the Rivers State Government to the total reconciliation of all Ogoni people, Fubara who spoke in Government House, Port Harcourt, yesterday, expressed optimism that the government’s action will bring renewed hope and restore confidence in the Ogoni communities.

He appealed to the people of the state, particularly the Ogoni people to see the federal government’s decision as a significant step towards addressing age-long demands of the communities, emphasising that the government’s investment in the area is a testament to the commitment to the well-being of the people and development of Ogoniland.

He further encouraged the people to key into the policies and programmes of government at all levels to achieve the purpose of governance in the State, and Nigeria.

In another development, human rights lawyer, Falana, who spoke as keynote lecturer at the Ken Saro-Wiwa 30th Memorial Lecture held at the Banquet Hall of Hotel Presidential, Port Harcourt, yesterday, explained that the Nigerian State, under General Abacha, in its desperation to incriminate Saro-Wiwa and permanently silence him and his group, used its head of task force, Paul Okutimo, to murder four Ogoni chiefs and falsely accused Ken and his men of committing the crime.

Falana, who spoke on the theme, ‘Ken Saro-Wiwa -The Man, His Legacies, Struggles and Challenges’, reflected on the crisis that erupted in Ogoniland in the 1990s over environmental devastations allegedly caused by the oil exploration activities of Shell Petroleum and Development Company (SPDC).

“Ken and his comrades did not commit murder, please take it from me. What happened was that the Nigerian State decided, ‘we’re going to deal with MOSOP led by Ken’ and the only way to do it is to allow Shell to continue to exploit your resources, no reaction, no objection, and to charge your leaders for murder. The Abacha murderous junta had one Paul Okutimo, the head of task force. Then the Nigerian State got quandary instigated by them, paid by them to kill the four leaders, Kobani and others. It was the Nigerian State that killed them.

“Before any commencement of investigation, Paul Komo, the then military governor, said publicly: ‘We’re going to hold Ken and other MOSOP leaders for the murder that took place in Yogbo. They (Ken and his men) were not there. Their (federal government’s) own boys killed the four leaders. But the governor announced: ‘We’re going to hold (MOSOP) leaders vicariously liable.’ There’s no vicarious liability in criminal offence. If you commit a crime, if you commit an offence, you’re dealt with. You cannot hold me responsible for the alleged offence of my son; that’s not enough but that’s what happened in Ken Saro-Wiwa’s case,” Falana explained.

The legal luminary further revealed that efforts by Saro-Wiwa’s defence team to present a recorded tape of the incident to the court to prove that the accused MOSOP leaders were innocent of the murder charge and victims of a pre-meditated trial were quashed by the court, as part of the Nigerian State’s conspiracy.

“For the tape at the trial, we were going to tender it, to say, ‘this case, you want to kill these people in a premeditated manner.’ So we applied to tender the tape. This was a defining moment for the tribunal. When we offered to tender the tape, the tribunal rose to consider and to consult. And they were told, ‘If you allow the tape to go in, that is the end of our case.”

Falana said it was at this stage that the tribunal, led by Justice Auta, ruled against the presentation and playing of the tape, and went ahead to hurriedly convict and execute Ken Saro-Wiwa and the other eight Ogoni environmental activists.

Commending the organisers of the 30th anniversary Ken Saro-Wiwa lecture, Falana, said the only way to honour the late environmental activist was for Ogoni people to unite and collectively sustain the struggle until justice was achieved.

In her brief speech earlier, Caroline Nagbo, an Ogoni activist, said the killing of Saro-Wiwa and the other MOSOP leaders was a political decision by the Nigerian State, even under the military.

“If Nigeria knew that the killing of Ken (Saro-Wiwa) will lead to the death of Shell, they would have thought better,” she said, regretting, however, that the marginalisation of the Ogoni people had continued till date.

The event featured goodwill messages from prominent Ogoni citizens, activists, traditional rulers, academics and stakeholders.

.Fubara lauds Tinubu for pardon, national honours for Ogoni 13 .Saro-Wiwa, 8 others didn’t commit any crime, says Falana Laleye Dipo in Minna, Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt The family of late General Mamman Vatsa granted presidential pardon by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on