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NLC, Ozekhome, Natasha’s Lawyer Condemn Senate over Senator’s Prolonged Suspension

NLC, Ozekhome, Natasha’s Lawyer Condemn Senate over Senator’s Prolonged Suspension

•Labour: This is descent into dictatorship, brazen, premeditated assault on democracy;  threatens to mobilise against senate

•Constitutional lawyer: Continued suspension is political victimization, unconstitutional 

•Natasha’s lawyer replies NASS clerk, threatens further legal actions

Wale Igbintade and Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), constitutional lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Prof. Mike Ozekhome and the legal team representing Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan have strongly condemned Senate’s decision to continue barring the Kogi State senator from resumption and performing her sacred constitutional duties even after her controversial suspension has expired.

The NLC warned it may be forced to mobilize its members and moral authority to resist alleged slide into autocracy.

In a statement signed by NLC President Joe Ajaero, the Labour movement cautioned the Senate leadership against creating anarchy.

“This act is not merely an error in judgement; it is a brazen, premeditated assault on democracy itself, a direct threat to the social contract, and a dangerous slide towards fascism masquerading as governance.

“That you suspended a fellow Senator from her constitutional roles depriving her people proper representation is not sinful enough but you went ahead to ignore the rulings of the Court that voided her suspension and at the expiration of your illegal suspension, you are still denying her a return is the height of impunity and morally reprehensible. This is no longer democracy,” NLC said

Meanwhile, constitutional lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Prof. Mike Ozekhome, also criticised the Senate for continuing to bar Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan from resuming her legislative duties despite the expiration of her six-month suspension.

In a statement issued yesterday, Ozekhome described the move as unconstitutional, stressing that indefinite suspension of an elected lawmaker strips an entire constituency of representation, insisting the continued suspension amounted to political victimization.

He noted that Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central, had served out her suspension imposed in March but was blocked from returning after a letter from the Acting Clerk of the National Assembly cited ongoing appeals in court.

Meanwhile, in a related development, the legal team representing Senator Natasha Hadiza Akpoti-Uduaghan has written a letter to the Clerk of the National Assembly, accusing him of overstepping his authority by refusing to facilitate her return to the Senate despite the expiration of her suspension and subsisting court orders mandating her recall.

In a letter dated September 11, 2025, and signed by a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, (SAN), Michael Jonathan Numa, the lawyers described the Clerk’s refusal to act as “unlawful, unconstitutional, and politically motivated.”

Further reacting to Senates obstructive footing, the NLC described Senate’s recourse to a frivolous legal technicality claiming the matter is subjudice after the expiration of a patently illegal six-month suspension, “as the height of legislative bad faith”.

“It is a cynical ploy that reveals a sinister agenda to silence dissent, crush opposition, and manipulate the judiciary as a tool of political persecution.

“This action, led by Senator Akpabio, constitutes a gross abuse of power that shames the hallowed chambers of the National Assembly and spits on the collective will of the people of Kogi Central who elected Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan.

“From our standpoint, this action is a direct attack on the Nigerian people. It is a declaration by a privileged political elite that they are not accountable to the citizens they purport to serve.

“By willfully disenfranchising an entire senatorial district, the Senate is effectively stealing the political representation for which the people pay taxes.

“This denies Kogi Central its right to participate in lawmaking, oversight, and the appropriation of national resources, directly impoverishing the constituents and perpetuating a system of exclusion and economic injustice.

“It signals to all Nigerians that their votes are meaningless and can be invalidated by the whims of any tyrannical leadership,” it said.

NLC said that it stands on the side of democracy and wishes to state that that Senate’s action is: a calculated test-run for the emasculation of opposition and the subjugation of sovereign will as 2027 approaches.

According to NLC, it is an attempt to punish integrity and honour and hound men and women of conscience out of the political space.

“A Senate that operates as a court in its matter, suspends members, and then ignores the expiry of its own sanctions, is a Senate that has declared war on the very principles of representative democracy and on our nation.

“We warn the leadership of the National Assembly and their enablers: the Nigerian people, united across ethnic and religious lines, will not stand idly by while you cannibalise our democracy.

“The labour movement, as the historic defender of justice and the common good, will mobilise its immense membership and moral authority to resist this slide into autocracy.

“An attack on one senator today is an attack on the sovereignty of every Nigerian voter tomorrow.”

On his part, Ozekhome stated that, “The Senate’s position weaponises the doctrine of sub judice, turning a principle designed to protect the legal process into a tool of suppression. By excluding Senator Natasha, the Red Chamber is not just punishing one individual; it is disenfranchising the people of Kogi Central.”

He accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of using legislative power for “personal aggrandizement,” insisting the continued suspension amounted to political victimisation following Akpoti-Uduaghan’s earlier allegations against him.

Ozekhome stressed the Constitution provides only four grounds for losing a legislative seat—defection, conviction, resignation, or recall, adding that none allows indefinite suspension.

Citing precedents, including the Court of Appeal decision in Speaker, Bauchi House of Assembly v. Rifkatu Danna, he argued that courts have consistently ruled that elected representatives cannot be shut out under the guise of internal discipline.

“The Senate is not greater than the Constitution that birthed it. To gag Natasha is to silence Kogi Central. Discipline cannot override democracy,” he declared.

On its part, the legal team representing Senator Natasha insisted that Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents Kogi Central Senatorial District, has a constitutional right to resume her legislative duties and that no administrative barrier can override that.

Part of the letter, obtained by THISDAY in Abuja on Thursday read, “Our client’s right to resume her parliamentary duties, after the expiration of her fixed-term suspension, is rooted in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended).

“It cannot be abridged by administrative fiat or internal Senate maneuverings,” the letter stated.

The controversy stems from a letter dated September 4, 2025, in which the Clerk claimed he could not act on Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s planned resumption because the matter was “sub judice” and still awaiting a final judicial pronouncement.

But the Senator’s legal team said this explanation is not only flawed, but part of a “deliberate attempt to subvert the sovereign will of the people of Kogi Central.”

“It is either ill-advised or deliberately contrived to deprive our client of the constitutional mandate freely bestowed upon her by the constituents of Kogi Central Senatorial District,” the letter stated.

They argued that the Clerk, as a non-elected official, lacks any constitutional authority to prevent or delay the resumption of a Senator who has completed a suspension.

 “Your functions are purely ministerial: to record, transmit, and implement decisions duly made by the Senate or directed by the courts,” the letter noted.

 “By assuming powers you do not possess, you have acted ultra vires, and placed both yourself personally and your office in contempt of the Constitution and binding judicial orders,” the lawyers argued.

The lawyers said the Clerk’s position is based on a “grave misapplication” of the sub judice rule, which they described as a self-imposed restraint on parliamentary debate, not an administrative tool to block constitutional rights or defy court judgments.

The letter further read, “Our client’s resumption of her legislative duties does not prejudice the pending appeal.

“It is rather your obstruction that prejudices the outcome of the appeal by presuming that the Senate will succeed.

“Pending appeals cannot justify extending a sanction which, by its own terms, has expired,” the letter added.

The legal team chronicled a series of incidents that they claimed amounted to deliberate judicial defiance by the Senate leadership and the Clerk’s office.

They cited the March 4, 2025, interim order by Justice Egwuatu restraining the Senate from proceeding with disciplinary action, which was ignored.

They also referenced the July 4, 2025, judgment by Justice Binta Nyako, which declared the suspension unlawful and ordered the Senator’s recall, a judgment, they said, the Senate had refused to act upon, dismissing it as merely “advisory.”

The letter also alleged that, “In spite of its knowledge of the subsisting Court Order, the Senate nevertheless proceeded to suspend our client for an excessive period of six (6) months.

“Your office facilitated and enabled the unlawful enforcement of the suspension by restricting our client’s access to the National Assembly and seizing her emoluments,” the letter read.

They pointed out that even if the suspension were assumed valid, it expired on or about September 6, 2025.  At that point, the lawyers claimed, the Senate became functus officio, and had no further power to extend or modify the sanction.

Any continued effort to block her resumption, they argued, would amount to punishing her twice for the same alleged offence.

The letter demanded the immediate facilitation of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s return to the Senate chambers, warning that any further obstruction would trigger legal action against the Clerk personally and in his official capacity.

The letter read, “We hereby demand that you immediately facilitate Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s resumption of her legislative duties without further obstruction.

“Take notice that failure to comply by Monday, 15th September 2025, will leave us with no alternative but to initiate proceedings against you.”

The threatened actions include committal for contempt, disciplinary measures for breach of the Code of Conduct for Public Officers, and potential liability for inciting a breach of the peace.

“We strongly advise that you reconsider your untenable stance and comply with the Constitution and extant judicial orders,” the letter concluded.

Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension earlier this year drew widespread criticism from civil society and legal experts, many of whom described it as politically motivated.

As the September 15 deadline draws near, pressure is mounting on the National Assembly to honour the court’s ruling and allow her to resume her constitutional duties.

The post NLC, Ozekhome, Natasha’s Lawyer Condemn Senate over Senator’s Prolonged Suspension appeared first on THISDAYLIVE.

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Enugu Wins N100m Model Green State Award, as Oluremi Tinubu Unveils Nationwide RHI Green Nigeria Challenge

Enugu Wins N100m Model Green State Award, as Oluremi Tinubu Unveils Nationwide RHI Green Nigeria Challenge

•Says State is clean 

•Mrs. Mbah: We’ll keep pushing

Enugu State has bagged a N100 million award as the cleanest state in Nigeria, as First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, unveiled the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) Green Nigeria Challenge.

The challenge is a nationwide environmental competition aimed at encouraging families, youth groups, communities, and states to engage in tree planting and environmental cleanliness.

Mrs. Tinubu unveiled the challenge at the quarterly meeting with Wives of State Governors and Coordinators of RHI at the presidential villa on Wednesday.

The challenge, with the motto, “Go Green Today for a Greener Tomorrow,” is in three categories, namely, households, communities, and state, offering a grand prize of N20 million for the best-performing household, N50 million for the best community, and N100 million for the best state.

At the event, the first lady presented a cheque for N100 million as well as a plaque to the wife of Enugu State Governor, Mrs. Nkechinyere Mbah, who received the honour on behalf of Enugu as “Model Green State.”

Mrs. Tinubu emphasised, “They earned it. It is not only in planting trees, but in environmental cleanliness. If you go to Enugu, Enugu is clean.”

She recounted a conversation with Mrs. Mbah, praising the proactive approach of the government to tackling environmental issues.

“When she sees anything that the governor doesn’t want to see—any litter around —they call and fix it immediately. And I think that’s the best way to go,” she added.

RHI Green Nigeria Challenge is divided into three categories. The Household Category focuses on 11 northern states (Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, Jigawa, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, Sokoto, Yobe, and Zamfara) that are vulnerable to desertification, encouraging tree planting with a minimum of one tree per household to qualify.

The Community Category invites local governments, youth groups, schools, and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) nationwide to reclaim and transform degraded or abandoned spaces into parks, gardens, and eco-friendly areas.

The State Category involves competition among states (excluding Enugu, which has already been rewarded) based on tree coverage along major roads and inner streets, encouraging tree planting.

On the motivation behind the initiative, the Nigerian first lady shared her personal history and inspiration.

She stated, “As a biologist, I’ve always loved to go clean. During the time my husband was governor of Lagos State, I used to go clean clogged drains. I was young, and I used a lot of energy.”

Mrs. Tinubu emphasised leading by example, saying, “People have to see you do what you want them to do. And it’s more appealing and attractive that way.”

Reflecting on her experience at the international level, Mrs. Tinubu recalled attending the G20 Summit in Brazil with President Bola Tinubu.

She recounted, “One of the things they are going to be looking at is plastic waste. Every country is buying into it, cleaning their oceans and waterways because the fauna in the sea is being affected by waste dumped into the sea.”

The first lady highlighted ongoing efforts by the RHI to address the issue, which included RHI’s collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Environment.

“We are working with the Minister of Environment. We’ve had several meetings, including one in Lagos, and teams have visited Ghana to learn more,” she said.

She disclosed that RHI will be working with the ministry to establish environmental clubs for senior secondary schools and environmental societies for tertiary institutions, with its modalities still being fine-tuned.

Speaking to newsmen, Mrs. Mbah thanked the Nigerian first lady for the recognition. She also thanked her husband, Governor Peter Mbah, state functionaries, and the people of Enugu for their efforts that earned the state the award.

She said, “First, I want to thank the first lady and the mother of the nation for recognising Enugu State as a green and clean state. I also want to thank my husband, the governor, Dr. Peter Mbah, for his tireless effort to keep Enugu clean and green. I thank the commissioners, the local government chairmen, and relevant agencies, like ESWAMA, for their efforts too.

“The key to keeping the state clean and green is not just by giving instructions, but also by being proactive, moving around, carrying out inspection, and doing all the needful. They had actually helped in making Enugu State clean.

“I promised Her Excellency, the First Lady, that we will not relent. We will keep pushing to remain that role model state.”

RHI Green Nigeria Challenge is poised to inspire a nationwide commitment to a cleaner and greener environment, with key submission deadlines set for 2026.

Interested participants are advised to learn more and submit entries at www.rhinitiative.org.

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After Another Grid Failure, NLC Demands Audit of Power Sector Infrastructure

After Another Grid Failure, NLC Demands Audit of Power Sector Infrastructure

Emmanuel Addeh, Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja and Peter Uzoho in Lagos

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) yesterday asked the federal government to carry out a comprehensive audit of power sector infrastructure and review of the entire privatisation model.

While reacting to the reported collapse of the national grid which threw most states of the country into darkness, the labour movement called on government to stop further deployment of public resources to support the privatised entities

In a statement signed by its President, Joe Ajaero, NLC said that the federal government should undertake a fundamental review of the privatisation model itself, with a view to reviving this critical sector.

NLC said: “Since the government has N4 trillion to invest in the sector, we suggest that the funds must be redirected towards a public-led initiative to build new generation capacity and revitalise the transmission infrastructure instead of handing it over to the Generation Companies (Gencos) and Distribution Companies (Discos).

“This is not a plea; it is a declaration of intent. The light must come on, by any means necessary. Once again, we call for a comprehensive public audit of the entire power sector. We call for a fundamental review of the privatisation model itself, with a view to reviving this critical sector. This has become an imperative.

“The working class and the suffering masses of Nigeria will no longer tolerate this darkness. We will no longer accept explanations for a crisis that is manifestly man-made. That government has continued on this path of deliberate failure demonstrates its unseriousness in getting the sector fixed.”

Earlier, the Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO)  announced that it had begun the restoration of the national electricity grid, hours after a system disturbance led to  blackouts in several parts of the country.

The latest incident took place around 11.20 am, THISDAY learnt, leaving just 20MW supply to Ibadan Distribution Company (Disco), out of the 12 power distributors currently in existence in the country.

But at the initial time of putting this report together around 3.05pm, data from the Independent System Operator showed that about 495MW out of the over 4,000MW which was available earlier, had been restored.

However, as of 8.21pm, electricity had been restored to the tune of 1,583MW, as Abuja Disco had the lion’s share of 243MW; Ikeja Disco had 239MW, while Eko Disco was supplied 204MW, according to the data available.

A statement released by the newly created NISO said that the latest incident was due to the tripping of a Generation Company (Genco) facility, resulting in a significant load drop, which cascaded to other Gencos, leading to a system disturbance.

“The Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) informs the general public that the national grid experienced a system disturbance at 11:20 hrs on 10/09/2025. The disturbance was caused by the tripping of a Genco, resulting in a significant load drop, which cascaded to other GenCos, leading to a system disturbance.

“NISO immediately commenced restoration of the grid at 11:45 hours, beginning with supply to Abuja from the Shiroro power plant, and substantial restoration has been achieved across the country. A full investigation into the immediate and remote causes is underway.

“ The outcome (s) of the investigation report would determine the remedial and proactive actions to be taken to forestall future occurrences. We crave your indulgence to bear with us as restoration is still ongoing,” the statement added.

However, before then, the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) and several other Discos had announced a power outage affecting their franchise areas via their different social media handles.

AEDC, in a public notice posted via its official X handle afternoon, confirmed that the outage was due to a loss of supply from the national grid, which occurred at 11:23 a.m.

Besides, Kano Disco stated: “ Dear Valued Customer, We regret to inform you that at 11:20hrs today, we experienced a widespread power outage affecting our entire network, resulting in a loss of supply to our customers.

“At present, the exact cause of this interruption is unknown, and we are actively working to determine the root cause of the issue. Meanwhile, we are pleased to report that restoration efforts are underway, and we have begun receiving supply across some of our feeders. Our teams are working diligently, in collaboration with our Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) partners, to expedite the restoration of power supply across our network as swiftly as possible. Thank you for your patience and understanding,” it stated.

Also, Ikeja Electric said: “Dear esteemed customer, please be informed that we experienced a complete loss of supply to all our feeders at 11:20 hrs today (10/09/2025). We regret any inconvenience this may have caused and appreciate your understanding as we work in collaboration with our critical stakeholders to restore supply promptly.”

In the same vein, Kano Disco expressed regret over the incident, urging  its customers to remain vigilant and safeguard electricity infrastructure from vandals’ activities during this time.

“Dear Valued Customers, we regret to inform you that a system disturbance occurred at 11:20am today, 10th September 2025. This has resulted in our inability to distribute electricity to our esteemed customers across our franchise area.

“We are appealing to our valued customers to kindly bear with us as we monitor the situation for quickest restoration. Additionally, we urge you to remain vigilant and safeguard electricity infrastructure from vandals’ activities during this time. Thank you for your patience and continued support,”Kedco stated.

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ADC Celebrates as INEC Confirms David Mark National Chairman, Aregbesola Secretary

ADC Celebrates as INEC Confirms David Mark National Chairman, Aregbesola Secretary

•Opposition party to Senate, Akpabio: Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension has lapsed, further obstruction abusive  

•Says Senate’s treatment of female senator may further hinder women’s political participation

•Accuses APC of stifling opposition in Lagos

•2027: Electoral body, stakeholders decry premature political campaigns

•Yakubu: It undermines INEC’s ability to track campaign finance limits

•Jega: Premature campaigns raise serious challenges to conduct, preparation for 2027 elections

Chuks Okocha, Adedayo Akinwalr in Abuja and Sunday Ehigiator in Lagos

African Democratic Congress (ADC) yesterday hailed the confirmation of David Mark as its National Chairman and Rauf Aregbesola as National Secretary by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), in what marked a new phase in the party’s leadership.

ADC commended the electoral body in a post on X by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi.

However, ADC condemned the continued obstruction of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s return to the senate after the expiration of a controversial six-month suspension imposed on her by the upper chamber.

The opposition party described the recent impediments to the resumption of legislative duties by the senator for Kogi Central Senatorial District as abusive and a flagrant affront on Nigeria’s democratic values.

ADC said the senate’s treatment of the female senator might further impede women’s political participation in the country.

Equally, yesterday, the Lagos State chapter of ADC accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state of orchestrating a campaign of intimidation against opposition parties.

ADC’s position came as INEC and other stakeholders in the election management process decried the premature campaigns by political parties, their supporters, and candidates ahead of the 2027 general election, even before the release of the timetable and schedule of activities for the polls.

Reacting to the recognition of the ADC leadership by INEC, Abdullahi wrote yesterday, “We congratulate ADC members and all lovers of democracy in Nigeria. We commend @INECNigeria and its Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, for standing on the right side of history and for standing up for the cause of multi-party democracy. Arise and shine, Nigeria!”

In a change of the party’s particulars on its website, INEC listed the new executive members of the party, confirming the resolution of months of leadership tussle within ADC. The commission further recognised No. 4, Oyo Street, Area 2, Abuja as the registered office of the coalition party.

Similarly published on INEC’s website was Mani, Ibrahim Ahmad as ADC National Treasurer; Akibu Dalhatu as National Financial Secretary; and Professor Oserheimen Aigberaodion Osunbor as National Legal Adviser.

Nafi’u Bala, a former governorship candidate of the party in Gombe State and ex-National Deputy Chairman, had declared himself the interim national chairman of ADC.

ADC to Senate, Akpabio: Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Suspension Has Lapsed, Further Obstruction Abusive

ADC condemned the continued obstruction of Akpoti-Uduaghan’s return to the senate, describing it as abusive and an affront on Nigeria’s democratic values.

In a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the party accused the senate leadership of defying both legal precedent and moral responsibility by refusing to allow the Kogi Central lawmaker to resume her duties after serving a six-month suspension.

ADC warned that the ongoing blockade reflected a broader APC government’s anti-democratic temper, which had sought to silence opposition voices and punish dissent. The opposition party concluded that singling out Akpoti-Uduaghan for such harsh treatment might further suppress women’s political participation.

ADC said it observed with deep concern the continued obstruction of Akpoti-Uduaghan from resuming her seat in the senate after the completion of her six-month suspension.

Abdullahi stated, “We consider this development not only malicious, but also deeply injurious to the spirit of our constitutional democracy, especially the right to dissent.

“It is important to recall that the suspension of Senator Natasha was imposed by the Senate, not by a court of law. And whether one agrees with the basis for that decision or not, the tenure of that disciplinary action has lapsed. Any further attempt to prevent her from resuming is, therefore, both illegal and morally indefensible.

“This is not about partisan politics. It is about a dangerous precedent being set within our legislative institutions, one that reduces democratic representation to the whims of a few individuals rather than the will of the electorate. It is about a political culture that appears more invested in punishing dissent than in upholding justice.”

The coalition party added, “Let it be clearly stated, the people of her constituency elected Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan to speak on their behalf. Denying her access to the chamber is, by extension, denying her constituents the right to be heard.

“It is especially troubling that during the course of her suspension, Senator Natasha was denied her salary, legislative aides, and access to her office. These are not privileges, but instruments of public service. To strip an elected senator of these tools is not discipline, it is institutional mugging.”

ADC said, “Even more disturbing is the posture of the senate leadership, which has continued to act as though legislative power can be exercised without accountability.

“We challenge the senate president and his colleagues to explain why a suspension that has run its course should be made indefinite by stealth.”

Abdullahi said several respected Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs) had rightly observed that Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension, having fully lapsed, could no longer be used as a justification to deny her return.

ADC added, “A pending legal appeal does not suspend constitutional rights, nor does it grant any official the power to override the mandate of the electorate.

“To continue barring her from office is, therefore, a violation of the constitution. The senate, as the nation’s highest law-making body, must not be seen to violate the very laws it exists to uphold.

“We also note with concern the clerk of the National Assembly’s refusal to process her resumption because the matter is subjudice. While the clerk may claim administrative caution, what is being projected is administrative complicity.

“His role is not to adjudicate but to facilitate. When the administrative machinery becomes hostage to political interests, the institution itself is diminished.”

ADC stressed, “Senator Natasha is one of only four women in a Senate of 109 members. Nigeria’s paltry female representation of 2.7 per cent is already among the worst records of women’s political participation, even in Africa.

“Any action that resembles gendered intimidation of the few women in the senate would only discourage women’s participation and make Nigeria appear even worse in the eyes of the world.”

ADC Accuses APC of Stifling Opposition in Lagos

The Lagos State Chapter of ADC accused the ruling APC of organising a campaign of intimidation against opposition parties in the state.

In a statement issued yesterday, signed by the party’s leader, Hon. Rahman Owokoniran, ADC alleged that Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration was “running a Gestapo reign” in Lagos by disrupting lawful political gatherings and infringing on the freedom of association.

Owokoniran’s remarks followed reports that hoodlums, allegedly acting at the behest of the state government and APC, disrupted a rally organised by ADC in Alimosho, where the party formally welcomed former Labour Party (LP) governorship candidate, Mr. Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, into its fold.

Owokoniran stated, “The ruling party’s manipulation of the masses to gain easy access to power in 2027 has been foiled by the ADC coalition tactical strategy, which has proven to be viable, effective, and reliable.”

He added, “The occurrence in Alimosho is just one in a series of orchestrated plots to stifle opposition in the state.”

The ADC leader cited several incidents in recent weeks, including the sealing of a rally venue in Surulere and the forcible takeover of another fully paid venue in Alimosho, as evidence of what he called a pattern of harassment.

Owokoniran said, in the statement, “On Wednesday, our venue at Surulere event was sealed, we had to move to a member’s property. On Saturday at Alimosho, another fully paid-for venue was forcefully taken over in a bid to stall the coalition event. Couldn’t they reason that since they failed to stop the unveiling of the coalition in July, they would not be able to stop the people’s movement?”

Owokoniran insisted that the unveiling of the ADC coalition was a “formal quit notice” to APC, warning that “harassments and intimidations will not help the standoff between us and the ruling party in this election cycle”.

The party urged APC to focus on governance instead of obstructing opposition activities.

“You can block our gathering, but you can’t block the heart of the people, who have long rejected the policies of your government’s long-awaited solution to the lingering economic crisis in Nigeria,” Owokoniran told APC.

According to Owokoniran, ADC has emerged as the “true opposition party” in Lagos, determined to “rescue the people’s mandate captured by self-acclaimed progressives now showing their true colours and baring despotic fangs”.

He added, “It will be better for the APC government to concentrate on whatever it could do to improve people’s wellbeing within the limited time left because what they are trying to stop are mere mobilisation and affirmation ceremonies.

“The coalition has been concluded and already sealed in our hearts. They can, therefore, hinder our ceremonies but it is too late to abort our resolve.”

2027: INEC, Stakeholders Decry Premature Political Campaigns in Nigeria

Ahead of the 2027 elections, INEC and other stakeholders in the election management process decried premature campaigns by political parties before the release of the election timetable and schedule of activities.

The stakeholders spoke yesterday in Abuja, at a one-day roundtable on the challenges of premature/early political campaigns in Nigeria.

Speaking at the event, INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, said the purpose of the roundtable was to discuss the disturbing trend of campaigning in public for elections, specifically the off-cycle governorship elections, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) area council elections, and the 2027 general election, long before the period earmarked for such activity under the law.

Yakubu stated that Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act 2022 prohibited the commencement of campaigns earlier than 150 days – five months – before polling day, and provided that campaigns must end 24 hours prior to that day.

The chairman explained that the idea was to prioritise governance over electioneering from one electoral cycle to another.

According to him, political parties, candidates, and their supporters seem to be perpetually in election mode, even when the electoral commission has yet to release the timetable and schedule of activities for elections or ahead of the timeframe provided by law.

Yakubu said around the country, they had seen outdoor advertising, media campaigns, and even rallies promoting various political parties and candidates.

He stated, “These actions and activities undermine the commission’s ability to track campaign finance limits, as politicians, prospective candidates, and third-party agents expend large amounts of money that cannot be effectively monitored before the official commencement of campaigns. 

“Quite correctly, Nigerians expect INEC, as registrar and regulator of political parties, to act in the face of the brazen breach of the law on early campaign.

“However, the major challenge for the commission is the law itself.  Sections 94(2) of the Electoral Act 2022 imposes sanctions, albeit mild (a maximum amount of N500,000 on conviction), on any political party or a person acting on its behalf who engaged in campaigns 24 hours before polling day.”

The chairman lamented that there was no sanction whatsoever concerning breaches for campaigns earlier than 150 days before an election.

“Here lies the challenge for the commission in dealing with early campaigns by political parties, prospective candidates and their supporters,” he stated.

Yakubu pointed out that while the problem of early campaigns in Nigeria was not new, the seeming inability of the commission and other regulatory agencies to deal with the menace within the ambit of the existing electoral legal framework called for deep reflection.

He stressed that it was in that context that INEC considered it appropriate to convene the meeting in which legislators, leaders of political parties, civil society organisations, experts, practitioners, and regulators will brainstorm on the way forward.

Chairman, Board of The Electoral Institute (TEI), Professor Abdullahi Zuru, said Nigeria’s democracy was still in transition, and like every evolving system, faced serious challenges.

Zuru believed one of the most worrying challenges was the increasing resort to early campaigns by political actors and their surrogates in many forms.

He stated, “We have seen aspirants use cultural festivals and religious gatherings to drop hints about their ambitions, often disguised as appreciation or philanthropy.”

He said billboards and branded vehicles sometimes appeared with cleverly crafted slogans that stopped just short of open solicitation, but left little doubt about the intent.

Zuru stressed that more recently, social media influencers and content creators had become key players and fronts, flooding platforms, such as Facebook, Instagram, Tik-Tok, YouTube, and X, with songs, skits, and hashtags that projected particular aspirants many months before the permission of the law.

He stated that what was being witnessed today was an increasing determination to circumvent, stretch, and even undermine the law.

Zuru explained, “Often, third-party actors, such as associations, professional groups, religious groups or political support groups are used as convenient fronts for disguised early campaigning.

“The implications of this trend are far-reaching. When aspirants or parties compete to dominate visibility long before the official campaign period, it distorts fairness and raises the cost of political competition.

“Moreover, it distracts from governance, as elected officials become more concerned with sustaining political relevance than delivering public service. Over time, it erodes public confidence in our electoral system and fuels cynicism about whether the law can truly be enforced.

“We must be frank in acknowledging the scale of the challenge and bold in designing solutions. We must refine the regulatory framework so that what constitutes premature or early campaigning is more clearly defined in today’s digital age.

“We must strengthen enforcement, ensuring that violations are detected early and sanctioned firmly, be it by political parties, individuals, or their proxies.

“We must engage media organisations and social media platforms, encouraging them to cooperate in moderating content that undermines the electoral timetable. And we must intensify civic education to enlighten citizens, especially the youth, on the dangers of endorsing and promoting early campaigns.”

Zuru stressed that democracy thrived on fairness, order, and respect for the rules, regulations and guidelines governing the electoral process.

He said campaigns conducted within the timeframe stipulated by law ensured a more level playing field, reduced political tension, and enhanced the credibility of elections.

The TEI board chairman stated that respecting the law was not a limitation on political participation but an affirmation that the country’s democracy was rooted in integrity, not expediency.

Delivering his keynote remarks, titled, “Towards Addressing the Challenges of Premature Election Campaigns in Nigeria,” former INEC chairman, Professor Attahiru Jega, said for elections to be meaningful, democratic and beneficial to the citizens, they should have integrity — be rule-based, transparent, free and fair, and have a level-playing field for all participating political parties and candidates.

Jega said the preparation and conduct of polls must be seen to be professional, efficient, non-partisan, and impartial.

He explained that campaigns were very important aspects of elections because they played a significant role in deepening democracy. He said through these, parties and candidates advertised themselves, their ideas and positions, to the electorate so that they could be chosen and elected from an array of competing parties and candidates.

The former INEC chairman stated that, like all aspects of elections, campaigns were essentially rule-based, with their period and duration defined by either the provisions of the constitution or Acts of the legislature, and regulated by Election Management Bodies (EMBs).

According to him, the more carefully and unambiguously defined and strictly applied the sanctions are, the greater the deterrence against violations by parties and candidates.

Jega stated, “Conversely, the more vaguely defined, if at all, and poorly sanctioned, the more likely the violations by political parties and candidates. Hence, effective sanctioning is essentially the panacea for addressing the challenges of all election campaigns, especially premature campaigns.

“Premature election campaigns are undesirable aberrations in democratic elections, posing serious challenges to the integrity of elections. If not appropriately checked, they pose one of the most serious threats to elections and undermine the integrity of the entire electoral process.”

Jega explained, “Premature election campaigns are basically campaigns done outside the legally defined period. They create an uneven playing field; disrespect and violate the law; they confer unfair advantages to parties/candidates who jumped the gun; they breed/entrench a culture of lawlessness and impunity; and they create political tensions; and they may even generate tensions and conflicts and undermine law and order.

“To protect the integrity of the electoral process, most electoral systems require campaigns to be conducted according to the rules and regulations provided in the electoral legal framework; with due respect to the calendar of the elections; respecting the right and freedom of other parties to organise and campaign and reach out to the voters; respecting the election managers and not interfering with the performance of their duties; and using the official complaint process and the legal system for appeals (ACE Electoral Knowledge Network, 2012).

“Although the Nigerian electoral legal framework contains some provisions regulating election campaigns, as it provides for period of commencement and end of campaigns, regrettably, premature campaigning has remained inadequately regulated and has become increasingly widespread, characterised mainly by the display of posters featuring politicians, across political parties, but especially of incumbents, at both federal and state levels, literally ‘jumping the gun’, some two years before the official election/campaign period.

“Many, if not most of these, are what can be termed as ‘third-party’ campaigns, ostensibly carried out by candidates’ support groups, with dubious financing, most likely in crass violation of campaign financing legislations.”

Jega stressed that there were allegations that some parties/candidates sponsored the premature campaigns, hiding behind dubious “third parties”, thereby also breaching campaign finance laws.

He explained that premature campaigns consisted of, not only the erection of billboards with candidates’ portraits and messages soliciting votes or endorsements, but also included the use of public media and resources to advertise records of “achievements” of incumbents, or use of official positions and commissioning of projects for electioneering purposes.

Jega added, “When incumbents do it and get away with it, or other ‘third parties’ do it on their behalf and get away with it, a spiral of illegalities and lawlessness is unfolded, undermining the rules-based system and the integrity of the electoral process.

“There is no doubt that currently in Nigeria the prevalence of premature campaigns raises serious challenges to the preparations and conduct of the 2027 elections, and, therefore, need to be sanitised urgently.

“It is being done quite brazenly, especially by incumbent elected officials at all levels and tiers of government.”

Jega lamented that candidates or parties who began campaigning early often gained more visibility and influence than other candidates.  He said this created an uneven playing field, reduced political competition, and, ultimately, escalated campaign spending.

Jega also said premature campaigns shifted focus from governance to politics, especially when incumbents engaged in early campaigning, and diverted attention to politicking rather than fulfilling their mandates to the electorate.

He stated, “Indeed, in the Nigerian context, premature campaigns quite often heat the polity, increase political rivalry, as well as engenders hate speech, and ethno-religious polarisation.

“This often triggers violence, especially in politically volatile areas, deters peaceful political participation, and weakens the enforcement mechanism to punish the offenders.

“There are so many ways politicians exploit legal loopholes to engage in premature campaigns, such as consultative meetings, project commissioning, ceremonial events, and distribution of so-called palliatives.

“These acts ultimately make laws become ineffective; they encourage a culture of impunity, particularly for the ruling parties at all levels of governance in the federation.

“Similarly, premature campaigns always erode the integrity of elections, by creating perceptions of abuse of power, and complicity or duplicity of the EMB.”

Jega pointed out that to protect the integrity of the electoral process, and to nurture and enhance perception of impartiality and neutrality of the electoral management body, many electoral jurisdictions not only clearly defined premature campaigns in the electoral legal framework, and provided sanctions for them, they also endeavoured to strictly penalise the crass manifestations of them, with penalties ranging from fines to imprisonment.

He recommended that all election campaign offences, especially premature campaign offences, should be carefully defined, with stiff penalties specified and strictly applied, where applicable.

Jega stated that all candidates and their parties, especially incumbent office holders and their political parties, should be held responsible and penalised for premature campaigns for them by third-parties.

He said the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and other related offences Commission (ICPC) should pay special attention to third-party campaigners and thoroughly interrogate their sources of funding.

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Nationwide Blackout: NISO Begins Gradual Restoration After Power Grid Failure

Nationwide Blackout: NISO Begins Gradual Restoration After Power Grid Failure

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

The Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) Wednesday announced that it had begun the restoration of the national electricity grid, hours after a system disturbance led to blackouts in several parts of the country.

The latest incident took place around 11.20 am, THISDAY learnt, leading to zero supply to the 12 Distribution Companies (Discos) in the country.

But at the time of putting this report together around 3.05pm, data from the Independent System Operator showed that about 495mw of the over 4,000mw which was available earlier, had been restored.

A statement released by the newly created NISO said that the latest incident was due to the tripping of a Generation Company (Genco) facility, resulting in a significant load drop, which cascaded to other Gencos, leading to a system disturbance.

“The Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) informs the general public that the national grid experienced a system disturbance at 11:20 hrs on 10/09/2025. The disturbance was caused by the tripping of a Genco, resulting in a significant load drop, which cascaded to other GenCos, leading to a system disturbance. 

“NISO immediately commenced restoration of the grid at 11:45 hrs, beginning with supply to Abuja from the Shiroro power plant, and substantial restoration has been achieved across the country. A full investigation into the immediate and remote causes is underway.

“ The outcome (s) of the investigation report would determine the remedial and proactive actions to be taken to forestall future occurrences. We crave your indulgence to bear with us as restoration is still ongoing,” the statement added.

Earlier, the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) had announced a power outage affecting its franchise areas.

AEDC, in a public notice posted via its official X handle afternoon, said the outage was due to a loss of supply from the national grid, which occurred at 11:23 a.m.

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Nigeria’s World Cup Qualification Now on a Cliffhanger

Nigeria’s World Cup Qualification Now on a Cliffhanger

*Calvin Bassey’s equaliser against South Africa not enough

Duro Ikhazuagbe

Nigeria’s hope of direct qualification for the the 2026 FIFA World Cup appears over following Super Eagles 1-1 with Group C leaders South Africa in Bloemfontein on Tuesday evening.

Only a brilliant revival in the two remaining games can guarantee Super Eagles route through the playoffs.

That itself is no guarantee for Nigeria yet as only the best of the runners up of all the nine groups will be involved in the playoffs.

Eagles’ Captain, William Troost-Ekong, in the 25th minute inadvertently gifted Bafana Bafana the opener when he cleared the ball into Nigeria’s net while attempting to stop a South African goal rush from inside the box.

However, Calvin Bassey redeemed the situation with barely a minute to end of the first half when he jumped highest to nod in a Fisayo Dele-Bashiru cross from the right flank. Although, many perceived that the ball bounced off Bassey’s arm before flying into South African net, the absence of VAR made the goal to stand.

Despite all the changes made by Coach Eric Sekou Chelle to Eagles, the second half was barely better than the first.

Chelle, who had already been forced to replace the injured Ola Aina with Bright Osayi-Samuel, rang the changes again at half-time, withdrawing captain Troost-Ekong and striker Cyriel Dessers.

The introduction of Tolu Arokodare injected urgency into the attack, with the new Wolves forward narrowly missing the chance to put Nigeria ahead after breaking clear early in the second half.

Tempers flared midway through the second half when opposing coaches Chelle and Hugo Broos squared up on the touchline, adding extra drama to an already fierce contest.

Wilfred Ndidi hobbled off with an injury in the 68th minute, replaced by Crystal Palace’s Christantus Uche, while Ademola Lookman saw his best opening snuffed out when the ball stuck under his feet in the box.

Catalogues of poor finishes and uncoordinated defending dogged Eagles play. They just were not good enough to take the three points from the hosts who were not equally any better apart from occasional brilliance Burley forward, of Lyle Foster and Mohau Nkota. Teboho Mokoena couldn’t also make any difference for the Bafana Bafana who were contented with the draw against Nigeria.

As things stand now with Nigeria having just 11 points with two games left to play have missed the Group C ticket.

South Africa are as good as grabbing the ticket with their 17 points lead. Only Benin Republic with 11 points and having a late fixture against Lesotho this Tuesday night, are left in contention for the ticket with the South Africans.

A win for Benin will lift them to 14 points, just three behind Bafana Bafana. Should FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee takes action by deducting three points from South Africa for fielding an ineligible player against Lesotho in March, the Group C will go down to the wire, without Nigeria in reckoning.

Super Eagles performance in the eight matches played in this qualifiers leaves much to be desire. Five draws and just two victories are not he kind of results expected from a team desirous of qualification for the World Cup, where only the best are fit for the global stage of the beautiful game.

In an earlier fixture on Tuesday, Rwanda won 1-0 at bottom team Zimbabwe.

APR striker Gilbert Mugisha fired the match winner for the visitors after 40 minutes.

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NOGASA, NARTO, PETROAN Join NUPENG Strike against Dangote

NOGASA, NARTO, PETROAN Join NUPENG Strike against Dangote

Emmanuel Addeh in Abuja

The Natural Oil & Gas Suppliers Association of Nigeria (NOGASA), the Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO), and the Petroleum Products Retail Outlets owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN) have announced that they will from midnight today join the strike declared by the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG).

NUPENG is currently locked in a major dispute with the Dangote Petroleum Refinery, over the company’s decision to recruit thousands of drivers for its new fleet of compressed natural gas-powered trucks under a condition it says bars them from belonging to any existing trade union.

The union began an indefinite nationwide strike this morning, although it has yet to have much impact as its leadership is expected to meet with officials of the federal government this afternoon in negotiations to end the stalemate.

Speaking during a joint briefing in Abuja on Monday, the National President of NOGASA, Benneth Korie, noted that given the urgency of the matter, the organisation found itself with no other choice, but to consider withdrawing its services nationwide in solidarity.

“NOGASA acknowledges and is proud of the refinery’s role in enhancing Nigeria’s petroleum industry. However, our members have raised concerns regarding the effects of direct supply to end-users such as telecommunication sites, hotels, and construction companies etc

“As responsible employers, we are particularly worried about the loss of supply opportunities and job losses that could jeopardise the livelihoods of those involved across the distribution value chain. In light of these concerns, we formally requested a meeting with Dangote Petroleum Refinery to address these issues. Our aim is to seek solutions that would balance the interests of all stakeholders in this sector.

“Regrettably, we have yet to receive a response from Dangote Petroleum Refinery. We strongly believe that such a meeting is vital not only for our members but also for the interest of energy security. As suppliers of petroleum products, we remain committed to protecting our businesses while serving the nation’s interests.

“Given the urgency of this matter, we find ourselves with no other choice but to consider withdrawing our services nationwide in solidarity with NUPENG and other stakeholders if this situation remains unresolved,” Korie added.

Besides, Korie appealed to the President Bola Tinubu, to intervene and facilitate dialogue between NOGASA, downstream distribution stakeholders and the management of the refinery.

“It is hereby directed that all oil and gas suppliers to all construction companies, industries, hotels and telecommunication sites nationwide should withdraw the services with effects from tomorrow September 9, 2025 pending when the matter is resolved,” Korie stressed.

Also, NARTO has notified Nigerians of its decision to join the strike action by NUPENG, describing it as a struggle against monopolistic and anti-competition practices.

National President of NARTO, Yusuf Othman, stated that although the organisation appreciates the injection of new trucks and other investments into the petroleum distribution value chain, it strongly and unequivocally rejects any plan for free distribution of petroleum products.

“The Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO) wishes to notify all stakeholders and the general public of its firm position in support of the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) in the ongoing struggle against monopolistic and anti-competition practices being advanced by the Dangote Group in the downstream oil and gas sector.

“While we recognise and appreciate the injection of new trucks and other investments into the petroleum distribution value chain, we must state categorically that NARTO strongly and unequivocally rejects any plan for free distribution of petroleum products. Such an approach is not only unsustainable but is also a deliberate attempt to undermine and eliminate the thousands of independent transporters who form the backbone of Nigeria’s petroleum distribution network.

“At present, NARTO members collectively operate more than 30,000 trucks across the country, employing thousands of drivers, assistants, and service providers. These operations sustain millions of dependents and are supported by financial commitments from both local and international banks, as well as marketers and depot owners,” NARTO posited.

It explained that any any attempt to eliminate the established distribution structure will lead to loss of investment, destruction of livelihoods, threaten energy security, and exploit consumers in the long run.

Also speaking, the President of PETROAN, Billy Gillis-Harry, stated that what the Dangote refinery was about to embark on was not sustainable, stressing that it will not be in the interest of the downstream oil and gas sector in the long run.

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Tinubu Begins 10-day Working Vacation

Tinubu Begins 10-day Working Vacation

*Departs Abuja for France, UK

Deji Elumoye in Abuja 

President Bola Tinubu will depart the nation’s capital, Abuja on Thursday, September 4, to commence a working vacation in Europe, as part of his 2025 annual leave.

The vacation, according to a release issued by presidential spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, will last 10 working days.

President Tinubu will spend the period between France and the UK and then return to Nigeria.

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