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Author: Promise Odejide

  • Tinubu Declares Nigeria Will Not Bow to Terrorists, Bandits

    President Bola Tinubu has assured Nigerians that his administration will not succumb to terrorism, banditry or criminal intimidation despite ongoing security challenges across the country.

    The president’s message was delivered by George Akume during the National Inter-Denominational Church Service held at the National Christian Centre in Abuja as part of activities marking the 2026 Democracy Day celebration.

    Tinubu Acknowledges Nigerians’ Hardships

    The service brought together government officials, religious leaders and other dignitaries to commemorate 27 years of uninterrupted democratic rule in Nigeria.

    Speaking on behalf of the president, Akume said the government was fully aware of the economic and security difficulties confronting many Nigerians.

    He noted that the administration understood the impact of kidnappings, displacement, insecurity and rising economic pressures on families across the country.

    “Government is sensitive to all these pains, shares in these pains and has heard your cries,” Akume said while conveying the president’s message.

    According to him, the government remains committed to addressing the challenges with compassion and responsibility.

    Commitment to Security

    Tinubu reiterated his administration’s resolve to tackle criminal groups and improve security nationwide.

    The president maintained that the government would continue efforts to protect lives and property while confronting threats posed by terrorists, bandits and other criminal elements.

    His remarks come amid growing public concern over insecurity in several parts of the country, including recent kidnappings and attacks on communities.

    Tribute to Democracy Heroes

    The president also paid tribute to pro-democracy activists who played key roles in the June 12 struggle.

    He acknowledged the sacrifices made by many Nigerians who faced persecution, injuries and loss of life in the fight for democratic governance.

    The Democracy Day service formed part of events marking Nigeria’s democratic journey since the return to civilian rule in 1999.

  • Tinubu Recalls When Pastor Adeboye Called Him ‘Father of the Nation’

    An old video of President Bola Tinubu recounting an encounter with Enoch Adeboye has resurfaced online, drawing fresh attention on social media.

    In the clip, Tinubu recalled how the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) leader allegedly referred to him as the “father of the nation.”

    Tinubu Recounts Conversation With Adeboye

    The video showed Tinubu addressing members of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and other Christian leaders during a meeting in Kano State.

    While speaking, the president narrated an occasion when his wife was ordained as a pastor in RCCG and Pastor Adeboye gave him a biblical name.

    “The day my wife was ordained Pastor in the Redeemed Church, I was there. Pastor Adeboye gave me Abraham, I said what is the meaning? He said watch out, the father of nation,” Tinubu said.

    Video Gains Attention Online

    The clip has gained traction online after being shared widely across social media platforms.

    Many users have revisited the remarks, with reactions emerging from supporters and critics of the president.

    The resurfaced footage comes at a time when national conversations remain focused on economic challenges, rising living costs and security concerns across parts of the country.

    Renewed Focus on Past Remarks

    Although the video is not recent, its circulation has reignited discussions around Tinubu’s relationship with prominent religious leaders and comments made before and after his emergence as president.

    Neither the Presidency nor RCCG had issued any statement regarding the renewed circulation of the video as of the time of filing this report.

     

  • Sowore Reveals What He Would Do on Day One as President

    Human rights activist and African Action Congress (AAC) presidential hopeful, Omoyele Sowore, has outlined what his administration would prioritise immediately if elected president in 2027, promising swift action on electricity, security, education and healthcare.

    Speaking during a recent interview, Sowore said Nigeria’s challenges require urgent and simultaneous interventions rather than gradual reforms.

    Sowore Promises Immediate Reforms

    According to the AAC leader, his administration would begin addressing key national issues from the first day in office.

    “I’ll start growing electricity on the first day, we’ll be fighting to ensure that this security problem is resolved immediately, using technology, using medium and long-term strategies,” he said.

    He added that education and healthcare funding would also commence immediately.

    “We are going to start funding education on the first day, we are going to start funding health care, we are fixing our roads, starting from the first day,” Sowore stated.

    Rejects Celebration of First 100 Days

    The former presidential candidate also criticised the tradition of celebrating a government’s first 100 days in office.

    According to him, public officials should be focused on delivering results rather than marking milestones.

    “You are not going to see me. In fact, if anybody puts a newspaper advert celebrating my 100 days in office, I’ll find the person and make sure you never do that nonsense again,” he said.

    Sowore added that any member of his cabinet involved in such celebrations would lose their position.

    “And if you are in my cabinet, you are fired on that day,” he stated.

    Calls for Multiple Solutions

    Sowore argued that Nigeria’s problems cannot be solved through a single policy or programme.

    He maintained that his administration would pursue several reforms simultaneously because citizens are already facing severe hardship.

    “That means you don’t have work if you are waiting for 100 days before counting achievements. People are already dying before you are elected into office,” he said.

    The activist concluded that a combination of solutions, rather than one major intervention, would be necessary to tackle Nigeria’s economic and social challenges.

     

  • Iyabo Obasanjo Quits APC, Cites Rejection Over Ogun Governorship Process

    Former senator and governorship aspirant, Iyabo Obasanjo, has resigned from the All Progressives Congress (APC), citing what she described as persistent rejection, disrespect and unfair treatment by the party’s leadership in Ogun State.

    The former lawmaker announced her resignation in a letter dated May 31 and addressed to the Ogun State APC Chairman, Chief Yemi Sanusi.

    Obasanjo Faults Candidate Selection Process

    Obasanjo criticised the process that produced Solomon Adeola as the party’s preferred governorship candidate, arguing that the consensus arrangement did not follow APC guidelines.

    She said she had committed to supporting any candidate that emerged through a genuine consensus process but was not consulted before Adeola was announced.

    According to her, some of her supporters were denied access to the venue where the candidate was unveiled and were allegedly intimidated during the exercise.

    “I committed myself to supporting any candidate that emerged through a consensus arrangement, but I was not consulted before Senator Adeola was announced,” she stated.

    Claims of Continued Disrespect

    Despite her reservations, Obasanjo said she accepted the outcome in the interest of party unity and publicly congratulated Adeola after his emergence.

    She disclosed that the senator later met with her supporters, who presented three demands during the meeting.

    However, she claimed that although a response was promised within a week, more than two months had passed without any feedback.

    According to her, the silence reinforced what she described as a pattern of disregard and lack of appreciation for her contributions to the party.

    Return to Politics Ends With Exit

    Obasanjo expressed appreciation to Bola Tinubu, the Ogun APC leadership and party stakeholders for their support during her time in the party.

    The former senator returned to active politics earlier this year after registering as an APC member in Ifo Local Government Area of Ogun State.

    She previously served as Ogun State Commissioner for Health between 2003 and 2007 before representing Ogun Central Senatorial District in the Senate from 2007 to 2011.

    After largely staying away from politics for several years, she signalled a return to public life in late 2025 when campaign billboards promoting her governorship ambition appeared across parts of Ogun State.

  • MTN CEO Faces Backlash After Saying Unlimited Data Does Not Exist

    MTN Nigeria Chief Executive Officer, Karl Toriola, has come under criticism after stating that unlimited mobile data plans are virtually non-existent around the world unless consumers are willing to pay extremely high fees.

    Toriola made the remarks during a press conference titled “Data on Trial” held in Lagos, where he addressed growing demands from subscribers for cheaper and unlimited internet services.

    MTN CEO Explains Data Pricing

    According to Toriola, the economics of mobile network infrastructure make truly unlimited data difficult to provide at the price levels many consumers expect.

    “The issue of unlimited data on mobile network, it does not exist anywhere in the world, except you are paying $400 a month or whatever. There are high bundles and fair usage policies,” he said.

    He argued that network providers cannot build enough capacity to support unlimited usage for everyone while maintaining quality service.

    Drawing a comparison with the aviation industry, Toriola said subsidising high-capacity services beyond sustainable levels would damage the industry.

    “If you decide to give everybody in Nigeria unlimited local air tickets for N200,000 in a month, do you think the airline industry will survive? It won’t,” he stated.

    Nigerians Challenge MTN’s Claims

    The comments triggered widespread reactions on social media, with many Nigerians disputing the CEO’s position and accusing telecom operators of overcharging customers.

    Several users pointed to countries such as Finland, the United Kingdom and France, where they claimed unlimited mobile data packages are available at lower costs relative to income levels.

    Others questioned why telecom companies advertise certain plans as unlimited if restrictions still apply.

    Some subscribers also compared MTN’s offerings to those of competing operators, arguing that better alternatives exist within the Nigerian market.

    Sowore Threatens Protest

    Human rights activist and African Action Congress presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, also criticised Toriola’s comments.

    In a post on X, Sowore described the claims as misleading and insisted that consumers in many countries enjoy unlimited or near-unlimited data plans at affordable rates.

    “Nigerians deserve affordable, reliable, and genuinely consumer-friendly telecommunications services, not endless tariff hikes, poor network quality, and excuses,” he wrote.

    He further hinted at possible nationwide protests against the telecom operator, declaring that the time to “Occupy MTN” was approaching.

    Growing Debate Over Data Costs

    The controversy has renewed public debate over internet affordability, network quality and telecom pricing in Nigeria.

    While operators argue that infrastructure costs and capacity limitations affect service delivery, many subscribers continue to demand more affordable data plans amid rising living costs and increasing dependence on digital services.

     

  • Makinde Restricts Night Okada Operations Across Oyo Over Rising Insecurity

    Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has restricted the operations of commercial motorcycle operators, popularly known as Okada riders, between 10:30 p.m. and 5:30 a.m. across the state as part of new security measures to address rising insecurity.

    The directive was announced during a statewide broadcast on Friday, June 5, following growing concerns over recent abductions in Oriire Local Government Area.

    Makinde Introduces Fresh Security Measures

    The governor said the decision was part of broader efforts to strengthen security operations and support ongoing rescue missions aimed at securing the release of abducted teachers and students.

    He assured residents that the state government remained fully committed to ensuring the safe return of the victims.

    “We will not relent until our teachers and children are returned safely home,” Makinde said.

    He added that although details of the rescue operations could not be disclosed, security agencies were actively working to secure the victims.

    “We may not be able to disclose every step being taken because of the sensitive nature of the operations involved… A great deal of work is being done behind the scenes,” he stated.

    Okada Ban to Take Effect Nightly

    Makinde announced that commercial motorcycle operations would be restricted during night hours across the state.

    “With the signing of this Executive Order… the operations of commercial motorcycle operators, popularly known as Okada riders, will now be restricted between the hours of 10:30 p.m. and 5:30 a.m. throughout Oyo State,” he said.

    He urged residents to cooperate with security agencies, stressing that security requires collective responsibility.

    “If you see something, say something, and the authorities will do something,” the governor added.

    Insecurity Concerns in Oyo State

    The decision comes weeks after suspected bandits attacked three schools in Oriire Local Government Area on May 15, abducting about 39 students and seven teachers.

    The situation escalated after one of the kidnapped teachers was reportedly killed by the abductors, sparking widespread outrage and protests by teachers and concerned groups across the state.

    A viral video showing one of the abducted school principals appealing for intervention further intensified public pressure on the government to act swiftly.

     

     

  • Emir of Argungu Urges Nigerians to Legally Arm Themselves for Self-Defence Against Bandits

    The Emir of Argungu, Muhammad Samaila-Mera, has called on Nigerians, particularly residents of communities within his emirate, to legally acquire arms and strengthen local vigilance as part of efforts to defend themselves against persistent attacks by bandits and other criminal groups.

    The monarch made the appeal during a meeting with district, village and ward heads at his palace in Argungu, Kebbi State.

    Call for Community Self-Defence

    The Emir said communities must remain alert and take proactive steps to protect themselves, noting that insecurity has left many areas vulnerable.

    He also suggested that communities could collectively raise funds to purchase legally approved weapons for self-defence.

    “If you acquire such weapons legally, make sure the bandits are aware that your community possesses the means to defend itself. This alone can serve as a deterrent and discourage attacks,” he said.

    He stressed that the worsening security situation required stronger local involvement in protecting lives and property.

    ‘Islam Does Not Encourage Helplessness’ — Emir

    The traditional ruler said it was wrong for communities to remain passive in the face of repeated attacks.

    “It is not right for a Muslim to remain passive while criminals kill people, kidnap innocent citizens, and rape our women. Be prepared to defend yourselves, your families, and your communities against any attack,” he stated.

    He, however, expressed concern that many communities had become easy targets because they lacked adequate means of defence.

    According to him, cases of bandit attacks often leave residents fleeing, including community leaders, due to poor security preparedness.

    Warning Against Revenge and Ethnic Violence

    The Emir clarified that his position was not an endorsement of lawlessness or ethnic violence, but a call for lawful self-defence within legal limits.

    He warned against revenge attacks, stressing that such actions often fuel cycles of violence and deepen insecurity.

    He also noted that while some armed groups had left parts of the area, criminal elements still operate in collaboration with other networks, posing continued threats to residents.

    The monarch urged communities to remain vigilant, cooperate with security agencies and uphold lawful conduct in responding to security challenges.

  • Broda Shaggi Slams Nigerian Leaders Over Insecurity, Says “May Your Hearts Know No Peace”

    Popular Nigerian comedian and content creator Broda Shaggi has criticised Nigeria’s political leadership, expressing anger over worsening insecurity, hardship, and what he described as a lack of empathy from those in power.

    The entertainer made the remarks in a strongly worded post shared on social media on Thursday, where he addressed the country’s leadership and governance challenges.

    Broda Shaggi Condemns Leadership Failures

    In the post, Broda Shaggi said it was unacceptable for leaders to hold public office while citizens continue to suffer from insecurity and economic hardship.

    “Heartless leaders should never be entrusted with the responsibility of leading millions especially not in a country where people are already fighting every single day just to survive,” he wrote.

    He added that empathy should be a basic requirement for leadership, stressing that the value of human life must come first in governance.

    “As human beings, empathy should be the bare minimum. Caring about human lives shouldn’t be optional,” he stated.

    ‘Nigeria is bleeding’ — Emotional Appeal

    The comedian lamented the rising cases of kidnapping, violence and deaths across the country, saying many Nigerians are losing hope.

    “Nigeria is bleeding. Many are grieving. People are tired and losing hope,” he wrote.

    Broda Shaggi also accused political leaders of prioritising personal gain over public service, urging them to return to the core principles of governance.

    He said leadership should be about service, sacrifice and accountability, not power or privilege.

    Call for Accountability

    The content creator warned that history would judge leaders based on their actions and inactions during the country’s difficult period.

    “History will remember who chose greed over people. And it will also remember those who stayed silent while innocent lives were lost,” he wrote.

    He ended his post with a strong message directed at leaders and their close associates.

    “To every leader and to those who are close to them and can’t tell them the truth, May your hearts know no peace,” he added.

    Public Reaction to Broda Shaggi’s Post

    The post has since generated widespread reactions online, with many Nigerians echoing his frustrations over insecurity, governance and economic hardship.

    Broda Shaggi, whose real name is Samuel Animashaun, is one of Nigeria’s most followed digital creators and is known for his comedy skits. His latest comments add to growing public concern over the country’s security situation and leadership accountability.

  • Schoolchildren Appeal to Tinubu Over Rising Insecurity in Viral Video

    A group of private schoolchildren has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to tackle the worsening insecurity in Nigeria, expressing concern over the safety of citizens across the country.

    The appeal was contained in a video that has gained attention on social media, where the children addressed the President directly and called for urgent action.

    Children Seek Government Intervention

    In the video, the pupils said Nigerians are looking up to the President to address the growing security challenges affecting communities nationwide.

    They urged the government to show compassion and take meaningful steps to improve the safety of lives and property.

    According to the children, many citizens are worried about the current security situation and hope for a safer environment.

    Call for a Safer Nigeria

    The pupils also spoke about their desire to grow up in a country where people can live without fear.

    They appealed to the authorities to prioritise security and ensure that children, families and communities are protected from violence and criminal activities.

    The video has continued to circulate online as conversations around insecurity remain a major national concern.

    Growing Concerns Over Security

    The appeal comes amid increasing public concern over recent cases of kidnappings, attacks on schools and violent crimes reported in different parts of the country.

    Security has remained a key issue in national discussions, with citizens and stakeholders repeatedly calling for stronger measures to protect lives and restore public confidence.

    As of the time of filing this report, there has been no official response from the Presidency regarding the children’s appeal.

  • MURIC Urges South-West Governors to Arm Amotekun, OPC Against Kidnappers

    The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has called on governors in the South-West to urgently strengthen and equip local security outfits, including Amotekun and the Oodua People’s Congress (OPC), to combat growing cases of kidnapping and violent crime across the region.

    The group said immediate action is needed to prevent criminal gangs from becoming more entrenched in communities.

    MURIC Raises Alarm Over Insecurity

    In a statement issued on Friday, MURIC Executive Director, Prof. Ishaq Akintola, warned that insecurity in the South-West is worsening and requires a stronger local response.

    He urged state governments to treat community-based security groups as frontline responders and provide them with the resources needed to tackle banditry and abductions.

    The call follows recent attacks in the region, including the abduction of dozens of students and teachers from schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

    Call for More Support for Local Security Groups

    Akintola said security outfits such as Amotekun, OPC and other local networks should be empowered to improve their effectiveness.

    “MURIC advises South-West governments to prepare vigilante groups as first responders. Groups like the Oduduwa Peoples Congress (OPC) and Iru Ekun should be empowered in order to halt the advance of bandits,” he stated.

    He also called for increased recruitment into the Amotekun Corps to strengthen its operational capacity.

    “More personnel should be recruited into the Amotekun Corps for effectiveness,” he added.

    Appeal to Yoruba Muslims and Christians

    The organisation urged Yoruba Muslims to draw inspiration from Islamic teachings in confronting criminal elements.

    Quoting passages from the Qur’an, Akintola encouraged communities not to surrender to fear in the face of insecurity.

    “MURIC charges Yoruba Muslims to take inspiration from the Glorious Qur’an on the need to confront bandits,” he said.

    The group extended the appeal to Yoruba Christians, encouraging them to adopt a similar determination against criminal groups operating within the region.

    Demand for Stronger Response

    According to MURIC, kidnappers and bandits often thrive when communities are unable to resist them.

    “We encourage Yoruba Christians to replicate this approach to criminality in the region. Bandits have a field day when we turn and run. But they don’t like confrontation,” the statement said.

    “We must therefore meet their force with force, bullet for bullet, stratagem for stratagem. There must be a balance of terror if we are going to succeed in stopping these hoodlums.”

    Akintola maintained that expanding Amotekun’s manpower and strengthening local security networks would improve intelligence gathering and response efforts in communities facing increasing security threats.