NigeriaNews24

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  • AGEAD Dismisses Allegations, Commends Federal Polytechnic Bida Leadership

    A coalition of over 52 civil society organizations, under the umbrella of the Advocacy for Good Ethics and Accountability for Development, has passed a vote of confidence on the leadership of the Federal Polytechnic, Bida, following a thorough on-site assessment of the institution’s projects and administration.

    The group executive director, who also occupies the seat of Director of Special Projects at the CSO Budget Implementation Assessment and Monitoring and Evaluation Committee (CBIAMEC), with his team, undertook a physical inspection of various projects June 18, 2024.

    Our correspondent gathers that the findings and reports were presented on Monday, June 23, 2025, during a formal briefing attended by members of the media, CBIAMEC leadership, and other civil society members.

    Speaking during the briefing, Comrade Henry Thomas, Executive Director of the organization, firmly dismissed recent allegations leveled against the Polytechnic’s leadership, stating that the projects purported to be non-existent were in fact visible, verifiable, and commendably executed.

    “As a former student of this great institution, I can confidently say the transformation I witnessed during our assessment visit is remarkable. Compared to what the institution was during my time here, the progress is undeniable,” Thomas stated.

    He emphasized that all projects cited in the allegations were not only completed but also reflective of prudent management and commitment to institutional growth.

    The group applauded the Rector and the management team for their professional handling of affairs, highlighting the high level of competence, capacity, and discipline observed throughout the institution.

    Henry further urged fellow civil society organizations and the general public to exercise due diligence before reacting to unverified allegations. “It is important to verify claims before amplifying them. False information can mislead the public and unjustly undermine progress,” he warned.

    He also identified key challenges, notably underfunding, which they say could limit the institution’s full potential, urging both government and private sector stakeholders to increase investment in the Polytechnic, noting the visible prospects under the current leadership.

    He concluded by charging the CBIAMEC, development partners, and media outfits, to continue monitoring, supporting, and publicizing success stories from institutions that demonstrate transparency and results-driven leadership.

  • RE- LADI ADEBUTU: FOCUS ON OKE-MOSAN FOR THE RIGHT REASONS

    RE- LADI ADEBUTU: FOCUS ON OKE-MOSAN FOR THE RIGHT REASONS

    It is high time someone pulled the brakes on the ridiculous charade called Lado 2027. The people of Ogun State are not fools, and we are not available for sale to the highest bidder, no matter how deep his pockets go.

    The level of mediocracy and sycophancy that the LADO group and their co-travelers are prepared to go for handouts is alarming.

    The entire Ogun State indigenes and Nigeria at large knows that Ladi Adebutu does not have the mental capacity nor resources to aspire for the office of governor of Ogun State, rather it is the singular ambition of his billionaire father, Sir. Kessington Adebutu for the ADEBUTU name to have the title, His Excellency, Governor Adebutu!!!

    How can any sycophantic person associate Ladi Adebutu with development? This is a man who has never started anything and completed in his over 63years on earth. The house he lives in Iperu was bequeathed to him by his grandmother.

    Every property associated to his name was “acquired” through the benevolence of his wealthy father. The only notable gulf-retreat real estate development associated with him in Iperu has been lying untouched and uncompleted for almost two decades.

    The farm infrastructure was passed down to him from his father, the failed multibillion meat processing facility in Iperu was fully funded by his father. All the vehicles he drives were bought and handed over to him by his father. Not to mention his weekly, or is it bi-weekly “aged allowance” from his father!!

    The Park Inn hotel Abeokuta, where he and his goons do their “kindergarten bojuboju“ play, (hide and seek) is at his father’s expense. Maybe the 2027 PDP governorship posters and ticket should read, “SIR. KESSINGTON – ladi- ADEBUTU FOR GOVERNOR”, At least, we will know who we are being asked to elect.

    The fact is that, Ladi is hopeless, disillusioned and incapable of handling or managing any organized structure talk-less of a state like Ogun. My candid advice is that, Baba should set aside a large “governorship aspiration trust fund” for the actualization of his dream through the next generation of the Adebutu dynasty.

    Any of his grandchildren, be it male or female can be governor of Ogun State, but not Ladi. We are told that Baba Ijebu’s enormous wealth can do the imaginable, that Baba can use his wealth to stop the sun from rising, that he can even make the moon disappear!

    Alas, Baba Ijebu is a mortal and his wealth, God’s doing. If truly Baba Ijebu is as close a friend to President Tinubu as they want us to believe, he should not use his vast wealth to fund the PDP or any apposition or coalition against his friend come 2027.

    As the saying goes, we graciously plead with Baba Ijebu not to impose this burden called Ladi on Ogun State. This must not be his parting legacy to us considering all he has done for humanity. God has been good and kind to him.

    Thank you Baba Ijebu for yielding to the pleadings of the downtrodden.

    Waliu Oladipupo.

    Abeokuta.

  • Benue Massacre: Tinubu Doesn’t Make Empty Threats, Says Yari

    Benue Massacre: Tinubu Doesn’t Make Empty Threats, Says Yari

    • Reassures that the President Will Go After Those Behind the Killings
    • Condemns act, seeks whole-of-society cooperation against insecurity

    The Senator for Zamfara West, Alhaji Abdul-Aziz Abubakar Yari, has told the people of Benue State and Nigeria in general that President Bola Tinubu was not the type of leader given to empty threats and therefore expressed confidence that he would go after those behind the recent killings in Yelewata, Benue, and bring them to book.

    Yari, the Senate Committee Chairman on Water Resources, while condemning what he described as “gruesome murder of the innocent and harmless” also sought what he identified as “the whole-of-society” approach to combating insecurity.

    Addressing the Benue massacre, a development he further described as devastating, Yari said the president has not only shown responsible and responsive leadership by identifying with the people of Benue and also visiting the state, the Wednesday “on-the-spot actions” that he took were marks of a hands-on leader.”

    According to the former governor of Zamfara State, “The president is capable of containing the situation and even if it means adopting totally extreme strategies to give every part of the nation peace, he would do it, because he was elected to secure the nation and the people and this much he understands.”

    Yari further explained that, “His (Tinubu’s) decision to suspend everything he was doing and to also keep others on hold are worthy of note. If we understood the responsibilities associated with the office of the president, we would see the empathy in his decision to personally visit Benue.

    “He could have delegated a high-powered team to visit and stand in for him while he’d go on with his other commitments. But he decided to show leadership and identify with the people, who showed him love through their votes and also believed in his person and leadership.

    “I can assure the people of Benue and Nigeria in general that those behind this dastardly act will not get away with their mindlessness. Those in charge of security also know the implication of not living up to billing, so no one is kidding here.

    “The criminals will be apprehended sooner than we all can ever imagine. The president doesn’t issue an empty threat. He meant what he said and said what he meant. They will not get away with this, and whatever their motive was, we will also unravel soon. But, ultimately, this madness has to stop, and it will stop.”

    Yari, however, appealed to the people to also see the security of the society as their business and responsibility.

    “Together, we can all confront this menace and decimate it. We need the whole-of-society approach to be able to defeat this monster and common enemy. This is the time we all must put on our intelligence garb.

    “Everybody – every citizen – must become an intelligence officer for the sake of the sanity of the society. We all must pay attention to happenings around us and give timely and pivotal information to relevant authorities to be able to nip the menace in good time.”

    He, therefore, commiserated with the people and government of Benue State; the families who lost their loved ones in the killings and as well prayed for those still recuperating in the various hospitals across the state, saying the Almighty Allah would perfect their healing.

  • From Allegation to Distraction: Coalition Warns Natasha Against Derailing Legal Process

    From Allegation to Distraction: Coalition Warns Natasha Against Derailing Legal Process

    • Describes It as Mere Theatrics and Deviation from Legal Action

    A coalition of civil society organizations, led by the Independent Public Service and Accountability Watch (IPSAW) and the Transparency Advocacy for Development Initiative (TADI), has strongly criticized Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s handling of her sexual harassment allegation against the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, describing it as a troubling descent into “political theatre” that undermines due process.

    At a press conference held in Abuja on Wednesday, the groups expressed deep disappointment over what they termed “a dangerous detour from truth, justice, and democratic integrity,” warning that the senator’s reliance on social media outrage, defamation suits, and dramatic public commentary risks turning a serious issue into a sideshow.

    Addressing the press on behalf of several other allied organizations, including the Allied Civil Society Organization (ACSO), Guardians of Democracy and Development, and the Forum of Progressive Youth Leaders (FPYL), Comrade Adeniran Taiwo Olugbenga and Comrade Stephen Eriba, accused Senator Natasha of shifting focus away from the core allegation of harassment toward what they called “emotionally charged and legally unfocused narratives.”

    “This is not how democracy works. This is not how justice is pursued,” the coalition declared firmly.

    They underscored that Senator Natasha’s original claim, of being subjected to demeaning and sexually suggestive remarks by the Senate President on the Senate floor, is a serious matter that deserves proper legal redress. However, instead of pursuing justice through Nigeria’s sexual harassment legal framework, she has, according to the CSOs, resorted to defamation suits and vague social media posts about threats to her life.

    “When you raise an allegation as profound as sexual harassment, especially against the nation’s third-highest-ranking official, the burden of proof is not a political inconvenience, it is a civic duty,” the groups stated.

    While acknowledging the gender power imbalance in Nigerian politics and the difficulty of confronting powerful figures, the coalition insisted that authentic justice must be pursued through established judicial processes, not via media campaigns or speculative accusations.

    They warned that Senator Natasha’s current approach, if left unchecked, could harm broader democratic and gender equity efforts. It risks trivializing real cases of abuse, they said, by turning such claims into tools of political strategy rather than sincere calls for justice.

    “We refuse to allow the gains of gender equity and political decency to be sacrificed on the altar of personal sensationalism,” they said, urging the senator to file a direct lawsuit under Nigeria’s anti-harassment laws if her claims are genuine.

    The CSOs also called on women’s rights advocates, civic organizations, and human rights defenders to champion truth and due process, not personalities.

     

    “No one should be silenced, but no one should be allowed to hijack the moral weight of real struggles for personal gamesmanship,” they added.

    They concluded by affirming that this moment transcends any single individual or party, it is about the future of Nigeria’s democracy, the credibility of public complaint mechanisms, and the sanctity of the judicial process.

    “Senator Natasha still has the opportunity to restore the integrity of her cause. But the clock is ticking.”It added.

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • Corona@70: A Dazzling Diamond Jubilee Extravaganza That Rewrote Reunion Rules!

    Corona@70: A Dazzling Diamond Jubilee Extravaganza That Rewrote Reunion Rules!

    Forget your typical school reunion. The Corona Schools 70th Anniversary Black Tie Gala wasn’t just an event; it was a vibrant, high-octane celebration that flipped the script on what a diamond jubilee should be. From the moment the red carpet unfurled at the exquisite Jewel Aeida in Lekki, it was clear this was an epic reunion of glamour, laughter, and an enduring legacy that would be talked about for a long time.

    This wasn’t merely a gathering; it was a grand convergence of generations, bringing together alumni from every proud corner of the Corona Schools’ empire—Apapa (now Corona College of Education), Victoria Island, Ikoyi, Ebute Metta/Yaba (now Gbagada), Agbara, and Lekki. Each alumnus, a living testament to Corona’s seven decades of educational excellence, arrived ready to ignite the night.

    Rain? What Rain? The Spirit Was Electric!
    Even the legendary Lagos downpour dared to challenge the festivities, but it was no match for the sheer electric atmosphere that buzzed through Jewel Aeida. Weeks of a meticulously orchestrated media blitz by the dynamic media & publicity committee, under the savvy leadership of alumnus Ayoola Sadare (Shaddie Bobo), CEO of Inspiro Productions, had already whipped anticipation into a frenzy. By the time guests started arriving, excitement was at a feverish pitch. Elegantly dressed alumni, esteemed faculty, and friends poured into the venue, ready to revel in cherished memories and forge exhilarating new ones.
    The setting itself was a star. Jewel Aeida’s opulent embrace perfectly mirrored the evening’s sophisticated flair. The hall shimmered under ambient lighting, draped fabrics, and floral centerpieces that subtly nodded to Corona’s rich heritage. It was the perfect blend of warmth, regal charm, and pure celebration—a reflection of a school that has masterfully combined discipline with grace for 70 glorious years.

    Red Carpet Revelry & An Immersive Memory Machine
    From the moment guests stepped in, they were enveloped in an immersive experience designed for delight. Graceful hostesses with infectious smiles set the tone for an evening of superb hospitality. Multiple camera crews captured every candid laugh and heartfelt embrace, while a buzzing 360-degree photo booth and playful selfie stations provided endless opportunities for social media gold. The red carpet was a spectacle of its own—a lively parade of laughter, confident poses, engaging interviews, and impromptu dance moves, all instantly immortalized.

    And for those who craved a tangible piece of the magic, a beautifully curated souvenir brochure became an instant collector’s item. Packed with nostalgic photos, insightful alumni profiles, captivating branch histories, and inspiring stories of impact, demand for it soared so high that even non-attendees clamored for the digital e-copy. For alumni across the globe, the entire event was live-streamed, ensuring no one missed out on the magic.

    A Culinary Carnival & Hosts with the Most!
    The culinary journey was nothing short of a feast for the senses. Guests indulged in a seamless flow of premium drinks, vibrant cocktails, and exquisite gourmet canapés. The main course was a lavish spread of local and continental delights, meticulously curated by four top-tier catering outfits. The air was alive with animated conversations, booming laughter, the joyful clinking of glasses, and heartfelt reunions over great meals—a vibrant camaraderie that fueled the night.

    Guiding the evening’s rhythm with effortless grace, sharp humor, and nostalgic storytelling were the perfect duo: Nollywood icon Keppy Ekpenyong Bassey-Inyang and veteran broadcaster Toun Aderele. Their magnetic chemistry, quick wit, and inherent warmth effortlessly bridged generations of alumni, conjuring shared memories that resonated deeply with every single guest.

    A Constellation of Stars: Distinguished Alumni Shine Bright
    The formal program kicked off with heartfelt remarks by Alumni Association President Prince Adebayo Ademiluyi, followed by a poignant moment of silence honoring departed members.
    Roland Abiola Odukomaiya, Chairman of the Anniversary Planning Committee, perfectly encapsulated the evening’s sentiment: “Tonight, we honor not only the past but the promise of the future. Corona has gifted us values that transcend generations. We are products of excellence, resilience, and a legacy that continues to impact the world.”
    The room was a veritable constellation of stars, glittering with distinguished alumni. Former Vice President Professor Yemi Osinbajo playfully reignited the friendly branch rivalry, declaring Yaba “the first and best” to a chorus of laughter and cheers. He was joined by CBN Governor Yemi Cardoso (Ikoyi), former Cross River Governor Donald Duke (Apapa), Sahara Oil CEO Dr. Tony Cole (Victoria Island), NELFUND MD Mr. Akin Sawyerr (Apapa), Dr. Yemisi Odubayo (MD Lagoon Hospitals) (Apapa), Mr. Ayo Subair LIRS Chairman was unavoidably absent but well represented by his spouse Mrs Yemisi Subair, and Bose Ogulu (Mama Burna Boy), proudly represented her 3 Agbara-graduate children, among countless other luminaries.

    Melodies & Moments: Echoes of the Past, Promises of the Future
    The Corona School Choir delivered a moving rendition of the school anthem, stirring hearts with collective pride. Younger pupils from Ikoyi charmed everyone with nostalgic school songs, bringing smiles to faces. A truly soul-stirring performance by talented saxophonist Saratu El Samaila—whose mother is also an alumna and traveled all the way from Minna with her husband to witness her performance—added a touch of elegance and generational talent.

    Former Governor Donald Duke thoughtfully reflected: “Corona has always been more than academics. It’s about mentorship, nurturing values, and preparing minds for leadership. That’s its real legacy.”

    Looking firmly to the future, Mrs. Adeyoyin Adeshina, CEO of the Corona Schools Trust Council, unveiled one of the anniversary’s most ambitious legacy projects: a state-of-the-art Tech Hub designed to future-proof students for the digital age. “Education must evolve,” she asserted. “This Tech Hub will prepare our children for a rapidly changing world filled with possibilities.”

    Justice Bukunola Adebiyi, Chair of the Corona Trust Council, added: “Seventy years is not just a number. It’s lives transformed, dreams birthed, and a commitment to excellence that remains unshaken.” Mr. Akin Sawyerr, MD NELFUND, also spoke passionately about the school’s foundational role in shaping future leaders.

    The Legacy of Giving: Fueling the Future
    A highlight of the evening was the powerhouse ₦200 million fundraising initiative, passionately championed by Caroline Olaseinde and the dedicated fundraising committee. Beyond rallying VIP attendance, her tireless efforts successfully secured substantial funds for both the new Tech Hub and a vital scholarship endowment fund. In a moment of inspiring generosity, Fred Ijewere kickstarted the contributions on behalf of Corona School Victoria Island Alumni, committing a significant amount towards the Tech Hub’s shortfall. The excitement continued with a live bidding on exclusive artwork by Professor Bruce Onobrakpeya, further propelling Corona closer to its ambitious legacy goals.
    Keem Belo-Osagie, Chair Metis Capital Partners and an Ikoyi alumnus, proudly reminded everyone of the school’s pioneering spirit, reinforcing that Ikoyi Creche—then known as Corona Day Nursery—was the very first branch, setting the incredible pace for all other Corona Schools.

    A Night That Refused to Conclude!
    As the inspiring speeches concluded, Co-Chairperson Sola Alamutu (The Green Queen) led the organizing committee members onto the stage to a thunderous standing ovation. “This night is proof of what love for an institution can achieve,” she beamed. “And it all started 70 years ago with the birth of Corona Nursery School, Ikoyi—the first of all branches!”

    The electrifying Magnifico Band soon had guests swaying and singing along, while DJ Cheflon ignited the dance floor, keeping the party pumping well into the night. The celebratory energy lingered in hearts and minds long after the final song faded.

    Corona@70 black tie gala dinner wasn’t merely a reunion; it was a living, breathing testament to community, a vibrant celebration of legacy, and a bold affirmation of excellence. For every guest privileged to witness this spectacular affair, the night will remain etched as a glittering reminder that after seven remarkable decades, Corona’s best chapters are still very much being written.

  • Akinlade Advocates US Style Rangers For Tinubu’s Forest Guards Initiative 

    Hon. Adekunle Abdulkabir Akinlade, a former member of the House of Representatives and gubernatorial candidate in Ogun State, has expressed strong support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s proposed Forest Guards Program, calling it a timely and strategic intervention in Nigeria’s national security architecture. He also urged that the initiative be modeled after the United States Forest Rangers to ensure its effectiveness and sustainability.

    Akinlade identified undocumented migration from the Sahel region as one of Nigeria’s most pressing national security threats. Commending President Tinubu’s foresight, he emphasized that the Forest Guards initiative is a step in the right direction towards safeguarding the nation’s vast forest reserves and rural territories.

    According to Akinlade, Nigeria’s current security crisis has deep roots in the aftermath of Muammar Gaddafi’s fall in 2011, which led to the disbandment of his formidable 800,000 strong army; comprising only 30% Libyans and 70% foreign nationals from countries such as Mali, Niger, Chad, Sudan, and Senegal. He noted that the collapse of Libya’s military apparatus unleashed an uncontrollable wave of arms and combatants across the Sahel, fuelling armed rebellions and terrorism in the region.

    “Intelligence reports reveal that Gaddafi had over 29 weapons bunkers scattered across the Sahel. After his death, many of these weapons fell into the hands of insurgents and non-state actors, further destabilizing the region. Nigeria has been a major casualty of that chaos,” Akinlade stated.

    He emphasized that only a coordinated and strategic initiative such as the Forest Guards programme can meaningfully curb the violence, especially forest-based criminality like banditry, kidnapping, and illegal migration. If modeled after the U.S. Rangers, the programme would provide a vital, decentralized security buffer that supports the efforts of the Nigerian military and police.

    However, Akinlade cautioned against placing the Forest Guards under the operational control of the Nigeria Police or the Armed Forces. Instead, he proposed the creation of a dedicated Federal/State security agency, fully focused on the Forest Guards mandate. He recommended a personnel structure made up of: 20% commissioned officers (graduates) after 9 months of training, 75% non-commissioned officers (school certificate holders) after 6 months of training, and 5% retired military and paramilitary officers to serve as instructors and field experts.

    He advised that the Forest Guards Agency be domiciled within the Ministries of Forestry and Agriculture, with mandatory training conducted in partnership with the Nigeria Immigration Service to enhance capacity for migrant profiling and forest surveillance. This, he explained, would allow operatives to distinguish between Nigerian and foreign tribal groups—for instance, the Yoruba-speaking populations of Benin Republic and the Sahelian Fulani tribes.

    Akinlade further stressed the importance of local inclusion, urging that indigenes, community leaders, and traditional rulers be integrated into the programme’s recruitment and operational structure. The Forest Guards, he argued, must be trained in the use of firearms, drone surveillance, infrared technology, and heat sensors, and be equipped with sufficient logistics to cover forest terrain. They should also possess the authority to apprehend and hand over suspects to relevant security agencies for prosecution or deportation.

    Highlighting the economic implications, Akinlade said the program will provide employment across Nigeria’s 774 Local Government Areas, stimulate rural commerce, and contribute to local economic development. “This is more than a security initiative; it’s a socio-economic stimulus for underserved communities,” he noted.

    He concluded by praising President Tinubu’s administration for its bold investments in national development, including the Lagos-Calabar coastal road, renewable energy projects, agricultural reform, aviation, the blue economy, and critical road infrastructure.

    Hon. Akinlade called on all Nigerians regardless of political affiliation, ethnicity, or faith to support the Forest Guards programme. He also urged the National Assembly to treat the programme as a matter of urgent national importance and to enact necessary legislation to back its full implementation.

    Signed:

    Akinleye Olu-Phillips

    Media Consultant to Hon. Adekunle Akinlade (Triple A)

    Date: Monday, 16th June 2025

  • Sorrow Tears And Blood As Leadership Failed Kano Youths!

    By Oluwatosin Faleye

    The heart of man is truly full of wickedness and nowhere is this clearer than in the recent avoidable tragedy that claimed the lives of 21 young athletes from Kano State.

    These were vibrant, determined youths who proudly represented their state at the 2024 National Sports Festival in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

    On their journey home, after enduring countless challenges to prepare and compete with pride, they died in a horrific accident when their bus plunged off Chiromawa Bridge on the Kano-Zaria Expressway.

    *Lives Wasted by Negligence, Not Fate

    How could this have happened? How can athletes representing an entire state be subjected to a dangerous 16-hour road trip across 1,028 km, rather than being airlifted like dignitaries, VIPs, or religious pilgrims?

    *Where is the value for life.Where is the priority for the future?

    A government that fails to protect, yet finds billions for pilgrimages.

    Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf approved a ₦1.45 billion subsidy for 2,900 pilgrims to Saudi Arabia—₦500,000 each for a religious exercise.

    Yet, the same government could not allocate funds to ensure the safe return of the youth representing the state in a national sporting competition.

    To add insult to irreversible injury, the government announced a ₦1 million compensation for each bereaved family. But the question is, can ₦1 million replace a life cut short?

    Can ₦1 million restore the lost future of a potential Olympic champion?

    Would this tragedy have occurred if leadership had put safety over ceremony?

    *Critical Questions That Must Be Answered 

    Would the Chairman of the Kano State Sports Commission, Umar Bala Fagge, make that same dangerous road trip in that same bus?

    Was the bus roadworthy?

    Was it newly acquired or an overused death trap?

    How many trained drivers were assigned to such a long, high-risk journey?

    *Was there any emergency response plan in place?*

    These are not rhetorical questions—they are demands. Because young lives have been lost, not to an act of God, but to poor planning, negligence, and a lack of foresight.

    …No Public Holiday Can Wipe Away This Shame

    Declaring a public holiday is not leadership. Leadership is prevention. Leadership is prioritizing life. Leadership is accountability. Had the state government taken these athletes seriously—as it does pilgrims or politicians—this may never have happened.

    Enough of the Lip Service—We Demand Accountability

    The youth are not expendable. The glory they sought to bring to Kano has now turned into grief. The government must do more than issue condolences—it must answer, act, and prevent.

    This is not just a tragedy for Kano. This is a tragedy for Nigeria.

  • Youth Council Commends Akpabio’s Leadership in Strengthening Democracy

    Youth Council Commends Akpabio’s Leadership in Strengthening Democracy

    •  Says Legislative-Executive Synergy, Key to National Stability
    • Akpabio is a Pillar of Legislative Maturity and National Unity- Adodo

    As thousands of young Nigerians gathered in Abuja for the Nigeria Youth Walk for Democracy and Renewed Hope to mark this year’s Democracy Day, the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) has commended the President of the Senate, His Excellency, Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio, for his stabilizing leadership and strategic collaboration with the executive arm in advancing the nation’s democratic governance.

    In a spirited address delivered by NYCN President, Comrade Solomon Adodo, the council celebrated Senator Akpabio as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s institutional harmony, whose legislative stewardship continues to uphold and safeguard the core tenets of democracy.

    “The peace and continuity we enjoy in our democratic process today is largely attributed to a functional and cooperative National Assembly. Under Senator Akpabio’s leadership, the Senate has worked with maturity, dialogue, and foresight, providing the enabling environment for the Renewed Hope Agenda to thrive.” Adodo said.

    Held in Abuja on Thursday, with participants marching from Unity Fountain to Eagle Square, the walk attracted thousands of youth leaders, civil society groups, student unions, and government officials. While paying homage to the heroes of June 12, the event also spotlighted modern champions of democracy, with Senator Akpabio singled out for his role in ensuring institutional balance and effective policy implementation through legislative action.

    The Council, praised the Senate’s collaborative posture, noting that it has enabled the swift passage of youth-centered reforms, economic development legislation, and critical national security bills, all instrumental in addressing Nigeria’s complex challenges.

    “Akpabio’s leadership in the Senate has been pivotal in reducing friction between the branches of government, creating a more stable political environment where national policies are aligned and executed seamlessly.”

    Comrade Adodo, also emphasized that the success of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda is closely tied to the National Assembly’s support in passing responsive and timely legislation. Under Senator Akpabio, the Senate has maintained a steady focus on national interest, transparency, and progressive engagement.

    “Democracy is a collective enterprise. It demands cooperation, sacrifice, and vision. Senator Akpabio has modeled these values, ensuring that the National Assembly remains a true partner in governance and a pillar of democratic stability.” He added.

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • PMAN Leadership Crisis: Police Exonerate Pretty Okafor, Uncover Forgery, Fraud and Failed Coup Attempt

    PMAN Leadership Crisis: Police Exonerate Pretty Okafor, Uncover Forgery, Fraud and Failed Coup Attempt

    The months-long leadership crisis rocking the Performing Musicians Employers’ Association of Nigeria (PMAN) has taken a dramatic turn, as Nigeria Police investigations have cleared National President Pretty Okafor of all wrongdoing and exposed a complex plot involving forged court documents, unauthorized financial transactions, and attempts to hijack the union’s assets.

    At a world press conference held on Wednesday, June 11, 2025, at the PMAN National Secretariat in Lekki, Lagos, Pretty Okafor presented a Certified True Copy of the Police Investigation Report, which emphatically vindicates his leadership and uncovers the motives behind the failed internal coup.

    According to the report, there is no evidence supporting allegations of constitutional breaches, forgery, or financial impropriety leveled against Okafor. The complaints, which culminated in his illegal suspension while he was on official assignment in Spain, were found to be in gross violation of PMAN’s constitution, particularly Articles 13(C)(iv) and 18(B).

    Furthermore, the Police determined that proper disciplinary procedures—such as NEC deliberation and Disciplinary Committee hearings—were never followed.

    Among the most damning revelations was the exposure of a forged Post No Debit (PND) order allegedly procured to freeze Pretty Okafor’s personal bank accounts. The police linked this fraudulent order to Inspector Caleb Samuel of the IGP Monitoring Unit and a court clerk in Minna, Niger State.

    The clerk has been dismissed and referred for criminal prosecution, while the inspector is under investigation by the Police Provost Marshal.

    In addition, the Police discredited a fraudulent consent judgment (Suit No. NICN/LA/360/2024), filed without PMAN’s knowledge or participation. The judgment was orchestrated to lend legitimacy to the plotters and manipulate the legal system from outside Lagos jurisdiction.

    The press conference also revealed that individuals involved in the failed coup—including Boniface Itodo, Faga Bem-Paul, Sunny Neji, Zaaky Azzay, and Michael “Ruggedman” Stephen—illegally broke into and occupied the PMAN National Secretariat on March 1 and 3, 2025. Their actions prompted police intervention and subsequent arrests.

    Following this, the National Executive Council (NEC) convened on March 16, 2025, in Abuja and removed all offending members from office. Acting officials were appointed in accordance with PMAN’s constitutional provisions.

    In a startling disclosure, Okafor revealed that the entire crisis was rooted in efforts to take control of PMAN’s growing assets. Under his administration, PMAN had achieved several historic milestones:

    * Acquisition of a fully owned National Secretariat

    * Launch of PMAN FM with cutting-edge broadcast equipment

    * Flag-off of the PMAN Abuja Monaco Project, a multi-million-naira property venture

    In 2024, Olusco Heritage & Investment Ltd, headed by Mr. Olufemi Olumeyan, was contracted to manage the Monaco Project. Investigations have now revealed:

    * Unauthorized collection of over ₦350 million from subscribers

    * Failure to meet project obligations

    * Suspicion of illicit financial transactions under forensic scrutiny

    The NEC has now resolved to safeguard these investments through an Asset Management Company, ensuring that PMAN’s properties and funds remain protected from further exploitation.

    The Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment on May 5, 2025, officially reaffirmed Pretty Okafor’s position as National President, with the association’s headquarters recognized at the Lekki Secretariat. The letter recognizes the valid National Delegates Conference held on October 24, 2023, at the Airport Hotel, Ikeja, where Okafor and other executives were elected unopposed.

    Okafor disclosed that he has initiated legal action to stay and overturn the fraudulent judgment in Suit Nos. NICN/LA/26/2025 and NICN/LA/48/2025, pledging to pursue civil and criminal sanctions against all conspirators.

    “This isn’t just about PMAN—it’s about defending due process, integrity, and the rights of all Nigerian musicians,” Okafor told reporters. “We will not only rebuild, but we will also pursue justice—without compromise.”

  • IBD Dende Foundation Uplifts Residents with “Ileya of Hope” Outreach in Abuja

    IBD Dende Foundation Uplifts Residents with “Ileya of Hope” Outreach in Abuja

    In a powerful demonstration of compassion and community service, the IBD Dende Foundation marked this year’s Eid al-Adha celebration with a two-day humanitarian outreach tagged “Ileya of Hope: Eid Beyond Sacrifice” at the Chief’s palace in Durumi, Abuja. Held from June 5th to 6th, 2025, the initiative aimed to share food, health, and love with those in need, in the true spirit of the season.

    The event, powered by the IBD Dende Foundation under the leadership of its founder, Alhaji Ibrahim Dende Egungbohun, brought smiles to the faces of the beneficiaries. This year’s program, themed “Eid Beyond Sacrifice”, went beyond the rituals of the Sallah celebration by offering tangible support through a combination of humanitarian relief and free medical services.

    Hundreds of beneficiaries were treated to a grand Sallah feast, where items were shared in a festive atmosphere filled with gratitude and joy. In addition to the feast, the foundation distributed special IBD-branded gift packs and food items to families, ensuring that no one was left out of the celebration. The outreach also included a comprehensive range of free medical services such as blood pressure and sugar level checks, minor treatments, first aid, malaria testing, medication, and health education sessions focused on hygiene and wellness.

    Volunteers and health professionals from the Support and Help Outpatient Foundation SHOF, worked tirelessly throughout the two days, embodying the foundation’s mission of “Touching Lives, Spreading Hope.” A Representative from the IBD Dende Foundation, Dr. David Owah emphasized that the goal was not just to feed and treat people physically, but to uplift them emotionally and spiritually during a time that should be joyous for all.

    “Eid is not just about sacrifice, it is about sharing. Our aim is to bring hope to these communities who have lost so much, and to remind them that they are not forgotten,” David Owah stated.

    A beneficiary, expressed deep appreciation for the gesture, visibly moved by the support, said, “This is more than just food and medicine. It shows that someone cares. It gives us hope.”

    The presence and leadership of Alhaji Ibrahim Dende Egungbohun continue to inspire similar acts of kindness across Nigeria, as his foundation remains committed to reaching out to the needy, especially during times of national festivity.

    The “Ileya of Hope” outreach stands as a shining example of how faith-based philanthropy can play a critical role in fostering inclusion, dignity, and well-being in underserved communities. Meanwhile, as the nation celebrates Eid, the IBD Dende Foundation’s intervention serves as a reminder that true sacrifice lies in giving wholeheartedly to those who can offer nothing in return.