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  • My Mother Sold Akara to Train Me, I Hawked Plantains in Jos, Sunday Dare Defends Remi Tinubu

    Presidential aide Sunday Dare has defended First Lady Oluremi Tinubu’s recent advice encouraging Nigerians to embrace small-scale businesses, saying there is dignity in starting with modest ventures.

    Dare made the remarks while reflecting on his childhood, revealing that his mother sold akara, bananas and oranges to pay for his education, while he hawked plantains in markets in Jos, Plateau State.

    Dare backs First Lady’s message

    According to the presidential aide, the First Lady’s comments were intended to encourage Nigerians to develop entrepreneurial skills and take advantage of opportunities available to them.

    “When you look at the informal sector of our country, its resilience continues to lift this economy. It’s also because of these small-scale entrepreneurs, those that sell akara. You find them predominantly everywhere, including in the North. They are also significant,” he said.

    He added that the message was not about limiting people’s ambitions but encouraging productivity.

    “Our point is that whatever it is, try and do something. Have some level of entrepreneurial skill,” Dare stated.

    Shares personal story

    Dare said his family’s experience shows that small businesses can create opportunities and transform lives.

    “Look at me. Wherever I am today, my mother sold akara. My mother sold bananas. I carried bananas on a tray on my head to markets in Jos, Plateau State. My mother sold oranges, and through that, they were able to train me. What is wrong with that? If that was right 60 years ago, what is wrong with that now?” he said.

    Cites Dangote’s journey

    The presidential aide also pointed to the success story of businessman Aliko Dangote, saying many successful entrepreneurs began with small ventures.

    “It’s about the capital you have. When you grow these small businesses, you start small. Go and read Dangote’s story. He also started like a trader,” Dare said.

    His remarks come days after the First Lady faced mixed reactions over her suggestion that Nigerians could consider businesses such as frying akara or roasting corn as a means of earning a living.

  • Okpebholo Reaffirms Promise of 2.5 Million Votes for Tinubu, Cites Edo Projects

    Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has restated his commitment to delivering 2.5 million votes for President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election, saying the administration’s ongoing infrastructure projects will earn the support of the people.

    The governor made the declaration on Friday during an inspection of the ongoing reconstruction of the Jattu Market in Etsako West Local Government Area.

    Governor links votes to development projects

    Okpebholo said his administration’s investments in infrastructure were already improving the lives of residents and would translate into massive support for the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the next general election.

    “People wonder how we will get the 2.5 million votes, but they forget that this government is doing a lot for Edo people. Our votes will come from the numerous projects we have embarked upon for the benefit of our people,” he said.

    He described the Jattu Market as a modern commercial facility that would boost trade and economic activities in Edo North and neighbouring communities.

    “We are not just building a market but a modern standard market for our people in Edo North, Edo State, as well as Nigerians who will benefit from this project when completed,” the governor added.

    Appeal to residents

    In a video from the event that has circulated widely online, Okpebholo urged residents to mobilise support for President Tinubu.

    “When you get home, tell your mother, your child, and your boyfriends and your husband that the governor has promised Asiwaju 2.5 million votes,” he said.

    The statement has generated reactions on social media, with some questioning the feasibility of the target, while others argued that ongoing development projects could strengthen the APC’s support base.

    APC leaders commend projects

    The inspection was attended by the Minister of Regional Development, Abubakar Momoh, former Edo State Governor Adams Oshiomhole, Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly Blessing Agbebaku and other APC leaders.

    Momoh praised the reconstruction of the Jattu Market, describing it as an important economic project made possible through the collaboration between the federal and state governments.

    Oshiomhole also commended the initiative, saying the market’s redevelopment would improve trading conditions and enhance commercial activities in the area.

    The governor said similar projects, including the redevelopment of Oba Market in Benin City and the Ekpoma Modern Market, reflect his administration’s commitment to improving livelihoods and expanding economic opportunities across Edo State.

  • “We’re Proud of Your Reforms,” Akpabio Tells Tinubu, Says Promises Are Becoming Reality

    Senate President Godswill Akpabio has commended President Bola Tinubu’s administration, saying the government’s reform agenda is already producing visible results across the country.

    Akpabio made the remarks while addressing the President, expressing confidence that the administration is delivering on the promises it made before assuming office.

    Akpabio backs Tinubu’s reform agenda

    Speaking at the event, Akpabio praised the President’s leadership and said the reforms were beginning to transform the country.

    “We’re proud of your reforms Mr President, you promised that under your tenure, when you are through with Nigeria, Nigeria will not be the same again, we are seeing it,” he said.

    His remarks were presented as an endorsement of the administration’s economic and governance policies.

    Comments stir fresh debate

    Akpabio’s statement comes as public discussions continue over the impact of the Federal Government’s reforms on the economy and the welfare of Nigerians.

    Supporters of the administration argue that the policies are laying the foundation for long-term economic growth and national development. Critics, however, have continued to express concerns over the rising cost of living and other economic challenges affecting citizens.

    Focus on executive-legislative relationship

    The Senate President’s comments have also renewed attention on the relationship between the executive and the legislature, with observers closely watching how government officials assess the progress of ongoing reforms.

    His endorsement is expected to generate further reactions from both supporters and critics as debates over the Tinubu administration’s performance continue.

  • Court Sets Aside Judgment That Registered Peter Obi’s NDC, Orders INEC to Withdraw Recognition

    A Federal High Court in Lokoja has set aside its earlier judgment that directed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to register the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) as a political party, ordering that all actions taken under the previous ruling be reversed.

    The decision followed an application by the Peace Movement Party (PMP), which argued that the NDC was registered using a logo it had previously submitted to INEC.

    Court reverses earlier decision

    Delivering judgment on Friday, Justice Isah Dashen held that the court’s December 10, 2025 ruling affected the rights of the PMP, even though the party was not joined in the original suit.

    The judge consequently vacated the earlier judgment and ordered all parties to return to the position they occupied before the December 10, 2025 decision. He also directed the claimants to include all necessary parties in the case before a fresh determination is made.

    INEC ordered to withdraw recognition

    Speaking after the ruling, counsel to the PMP, C.S. Ekeocha, said the judgment means every action taken by INEC based on the previous court order must be withdrawn.

    According to him, this includes the recognition of the NDC as a political party, the issuance of its certificate of registration, its inclusion in INEC’s official records and any appearance on ballot papers, pending the final determination of the substantive suit.

    Case not yet concluded

    Ekeocha clarified that the court did not determine the substantive dispute but only set aside its earlier judgment to ensure all parties affected by the case are given an opportunity to be heard.

    He also dismissed claims that the court merely ordered parties to maintain the status quo, insisting that the ruling specifically restored the position that existed before the December 10, 2025 judgment.

    The case is expected to return to court after the necessary parties have been joined for a fresh hearing.

     

  • Peter Obi Sues Kenneth Okonkwo for ₦8bn Over Defamation Claims

    The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has filed an ₦8 billion defamation suit against his former spokesperson, Kenneth Okonkwo, over allegations made during a television interview. The case was filed at the Anambra State High Court after Okonkwo allegedly failed to retract the claims despite an earlier legal demand.

    Alleged Defamatory Claims

    The dispute stems from comments Okonkwo made during an appearance on Channels Television on June 8, where he alleged that Obi collected ₦10 million each from House of Representatives aspirants and personally selected candidates for federal constituencies in the South-East.

    Following the interview, Obi, through his lawyer, Chief Alex Ejesieme (SAN), issued a seven-day ultimatum demanding a public retraction, apology and ₦5 billion in compensation.

    Okonkwo, however, rejected the demands in a response dated June 16, insisting that he stood by his allegations.

    Obi Seeks ₦8 Billion Damages

    In the suit filed on June 25, Obi described the television interview and subsequent social media posts by Okonkwo as false, malicious, baseless and defamatory.

    He is asking the court to award ₦5 billion as general damages for alleged injury to his reputation, ₦2 billion as aggravated damages for the continued publication of the claims after receiving the pre-action notice, and ₦1 billion as exemplary damages.

    Obi also wants the court to compel Okonkwo to publish an unreserved apology on Channels Television, the station’s YouTube platform, all his social media accounts and in three national newspapers within seven days of judgment.

    The suit further seeks an order directing the deletion of the alleged defamatory publications, a perpetual injunction restraining Okonkwo from making similar claims in the future, the cost of the suit and 10 per cent annual post-judgment interest on any monetary award.

    Former Ally Denies Allegations

    The court documents show that the writ of summons has been endorsed for service on Okonkwo in Enugu State.

    A key part of the controversy centres on claims that House of Representatives aspirant Obunike Ohaegbu told Okonkwo that Obi demanded ₦10 million from aspirants.

    However, Ohaegbu publicly denied making the allegation.

    Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily on June 9, he said, “Peter Obi never told me to pay ₦10 million. I never told Kenneth Okonkwo that Peter Obi, in any way, told me to pay ₦10 million.”

    He also denied accusing the NDC South-East caucus of bribery or claiming that Obi compiled candidates’ names at a hotel in Abuja.

    Political Fallout

    Obi and Okonkwo were close political associates during the 2023 presidential election when the actor-turned-politician served as Obi’s spokesperson in the Labour Party.

    The two later joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC) ahead of preparations for the 2027 elections before Obi moved to the NDC, where he emerged as the party’s presidential candidate. Since then, Okonkwo has become one of Obi’s strongest critics.

  • “To Start Akara Business Doesn’t Take Much,” Oluremi Tinubu Tells Nigerians

    Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has defended the Federal Government’s empowerment programmes, saying grants provided to small business owners are designed to give Nigerians hope amid the country’s economic challenges.

    Speaking during a recent engagement, the First Lady said the administration had chosen to provide grants rather than loans to support petty traders and vulnerable citizens.

    ‘We Are Giving Hope’

    Sen. Tinubu said starting small businesses such as frying akara or roasting corn requires limited capital and can provide a pathway to financial independence.

    “We’re trying to give hope. To start akara business doesn’t take much; to start roasting corn doesn’t take much. We didn’t give them a loan; we gave it to them as a grant,” she said.

    She added that the government had continued to support Nigerians through initiatives within its capacity.

    “What is within our hands, I have given, and I keep giving,” she said.

    Renewed Hope Empowerment Programme

    The First Lady’s remarks come under the Renewed Hope Initiative, which has distributed grants to women and small business owners in several states.

    Recent interventions include financial support for women in Benue, Ekiti and Kaduna states, where beneficiaries received grants to strengthen their small businesses without repayment obligations.

    The programme focuses on women, petty traders and other vulnerable groups engaged in micro-enterprises.

    Mixed Public Reactions

    The comments have generated mixed reactions on social media.

    Supporters described the grants as meaningful support for grassroots entrepreneurs struggling with the high cost of living.

    Critics, however, argued that the assistance is insufficient given rising inflation, high fuel prices and the broader economic pressures facing many households and businesses.

    Some questioned whether small-scale grants alone can adequately address Nigeria’s current economic challenges.

    Government Defends Reform Agenda

    The Tinubu administration has consistently maintained that its economic reforms, including fuel subsidy removal and exchange rate adjustments, are necessary for long-term economic stability despite the short-term hardship experienced by many Nigerians.

    Sen. Tinubu has repeatedly urged citizens to remain patient while the government continues implementing programmes aimed at reducing poverty and promoting economic inclusion.

  • Backlash as Onanuga Says He Doesn’t See Hunger Nigerians Are Complaining About

    Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, has sparked controversy after stating that he does not see the level of hunger many Nigerians claim to be experiencing amid the country’s economic challenges.

    The presidential aide made the remark during an interview on ARISE News’ Prime Time programme on Tuesday, drawing immediate reactions from Nigerians on social media.

    Onanuga Defends Government Efforts

    Speaking during the interview, Onanuga said his personal interactions with workers around him do not reflect the severity of hunger often reported by Nigerians.

    “I don’t see the level of hunger Nigerians are complaining about,” he said, adding that the Federal Government had increased the national minimum wage by more than 100 percent.

    He noted that he regularly asks people working for him privately how they are coping with the current economic situation and believes government interventions are helping citizens adjust.

    Minimum Wage Increase Cited

    Onanuga referenced the increase in Nigeria’s minimum wage from ₦30,000 to ₦70,000, which took effect in 2024 following the signing of the amended minimum wage law.

    The administration has repeatedly pointed to the wage increase as part of measures designed to cushion the effects of ongoing economic reforms.

    Comments Trigger Public Reactions

    The remarks quickly generated backlash online, with many Nigerians accusing the presidential spokesman of being disconnected from the realities faced by ordinary citizens.

    Critics argued that rising food prices, transportation costs and inflation have significantly reduced the purchasing power of workers despite the wage increase.

    Several social media users questioned how government officials could dismiss widespread complaints about hardship when food inflation and living expenses remain high across the country.

    Economic Hardship Remains Major Concern

    Nigeria has continued to grapple with economic pressures following the removal of fuel subsidies and the unification of the foreign exchange market under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

    While supporters of the reforms argue they are necessary for long-term economic stability, many households continue to face rising costs of food, energy and basic necessities.

    The controversy surrounding Onanuga’s comments has reignited debate over the impact of government policies and the growing perception gap between public officials and citizens.

    Debate Continues

    As reactions continue to trail the interview, no official clarification has been issued by the Presidency regarding the comments.

    The development adds to ongoing discussions about inflation, food security and the effectiveness of measures introduced to ease economic hardship across the country.

  • SERAP Gives Akpabio, Abbas Seven Days to Recover N110bn Vehicle, Allowance Funds from Lawmakers

    The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has given Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas a seven-day deadline to ensure lawmakers refund funds received under the N110 billion vehicle procurement and support allowance schemes declared unlawful by a Federal High Court.

    SERAP said the National Assembly leadership must act immediately to recover the funds and implement measures to prevent future violations of procurement and accountability laws.

    SERAP Demands Refund of N110bn

    In a letter dated June 20, 2026, and signed by its Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare, SERAP urged Akpabio and Abbas to establish mechanisms that would ensure all future procurements and spending by the National Assembly comply with due process and transparency requirements.

    The organisation also called for public hearings on the National Assembly budget during every budget cycle and the publication of detailed expenditure records to strengthen accountability and public participation.

    According to SERAP, lawmakers should not be allowed to retain benefits obtained from expenditure already declared unlawful by the court.

    Court Judgment Behind Demand

    The demand follows a judgment delivered by Justice Yellim Bogoro of the Federal High Court in Lagos in Suit No. FHC/L/CS/1606/2023.

    The court held that the spending of N40 billion on 465 vehicles for lawmakers and N70 billion in support allowances for newly elected members violated procurement laws, constitutional provisions and public trust obligations.

    SERAP argued that the judgment established a legal and factual basis for the recovery of the funds.

    ‘There Must Be Consequences’

    The organisation said the court’s findings showed that the expenditure was characterised by self-dealing, conflict of interest and disregard for the national interest.

    “Flowing from Justice Bogoro’s judgment, there must be consequences and full restitution for the lawmakers’ failure to comply with their constitutional and statutory obligations,” SERAP said.

    It added that allowing lawmakers to retain the benefits would undermine public confidence in democratic institutions and weaken efforts to combat corruption and abuse of power.

    Legal Action Threatened

    SERAP noted that while the judgment did not specifically order the refund of the N110 billion, it aligns with constitutional provisions, anti-corruption laws and Nigeria’s international obligations that support restitution where public funds have been unlawfully spent.

    The organisation warned that it would institute legal proceedings against Akpabio, Abbas, lawmakers and the National Assembly if the recommendations are not implemented within seven days.

    It maintained that public officials must be held accountable whenever public funds are spent in violation of procurement regulations and constitutional safeguards.

     

  • Biodun Oyebanji Wins All 16 LGAs to Secure Historic Second Term in Ekiti

    Incumbent Governor Biodun Oyebanji of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has been re-elected as governor of Ekiti State after recording a sweeping victory in Saturday’s governorship election.

    The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared Oyebanji winner in the early hours of Sunday after he secured 319,224 votes and won in all 16 local government areas of the state.

    Oyebanji Defeats PDP, ADC Candidates

    INEC Returning Officer, Prof. Adenike Oladiji, announced that the APC candidate defeated his closest rivals by a wide margin.

    According to the results, Oluwole Oluyede of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) polled 40,543 votes, while Oluwadare Patrick Bejide of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) secured 12,872 votes.

    A total of 375,777 valid votes were recorded, while 6,332 votes were rejected. About 384,940 voters were accredited for the election.

    Oyebanji’s total represented nearly 85 per cent of valid votes cast, underlining the APC’s dominance in the poll.

    Historic Re-Election Victory

    The outcome marks a major political milestone in Ekiti State.

    Oyebanji has become the first governor since Nigeria’s return to democratic rule in 1999 to win re-election and secure a second consecutive term in office.

    Political observers have long described Ekiti as a state with strong anti-incumbency tendencies, making the governor’s victory particularly significant.

    Election Day and Voting Process

    Voting took place across the state’s 16 local government areas, 177 wards and 2,445 polling units.

    Election observers reported largely peaceful conduct, with INEC officials and security personnel deployed across voting centres. Accreditation and voting were conducted using the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS).

    While the process was generally peaceful, there were reports of isolated cases of vote-buying, voter inducement and minor technical issues in some locations.

    INEC also uploaded polling unit results to its Result Viewing Portal (IReV) during the collation process.

    Reactions Trail Victory

    Reacting to the outcome, Oyebanji described the result as a vote of confidence in his administration and pledged to continue delivering on his campaign promises.

    The election attracted 14 candidates, although the APC, PDP and ADC accounted for the overwhelming majority of votes cast.

    Opposition parties are yet to formally announce whether they will challenge the outcome in court.

     

  • Tinubu Commissions 10 Luxury Duplexes for Court of Appeal Justices in Abuja, Sparks Debate Over Judicial Welfare

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commissioned a new residential estate for Justices of the Court of Appeal in Katampe District, Abuja, comprising 10 fully furnished five-bedroom duplexes with boys’ quarters. The project, delivered under the Federal Capital Territory Administration, is aimed at improving housing and welfare conditions for judicial officers in the country.

    The development is part of ongoing efforts by the government to strengthen the judiciary through improved infrastructure and living conditions for judges.

    Judicial Housing Project Unveiled in Abuja

    The estate was executed by the FCT Administration under Minister Nyesom Wike and is designed to address longstanding housing challenges faced by judicial officers in the capital.

    Officials say the initiative is intended to enhance security, comfort, and independence of the judiciary, with similar housing projects planned for other categories of judges within the FCT judiciary system.

    Tinubu, represented at the commissioning, described the project as a necessary investment in democratic governance, stressing that judicial independence is tied not only to laws and institutions but also to the welfare of judicial officers.

    He noted that providing secure and decent housing would help improve efficiency within the justice system while reducing external pressures on judges.

    Wike Expands Judicial Housing Programme

    FCT Minister Nyesom Wike explained that the Katampe estate forms part of a broader judicial housing programme that will also accommodate Federal High Court and FCT High Court judges in phases.

    He said the land for the project was recovered from private interests after remaining undeveloped for over 15 years and maintained that the initiative is strictly for welfare purposes.

    Wike also announced plans for further housing projects, with additional judicial residences expected to be commissioned in the coming months as part of a wider infrastructure push.

    Reactions and Public Debate

    The commissioning has generated mixed reactions across political and public spaces.

    Supporters of the initiative say it represents a necessary reform step that will improve judicial independence by ensuring judges are not exposed to housing-related challenges or vulnerabilities.

    However, critics have raised concerns over the timing and optics of providing luxury accommodation for judges at a time of economic hardship in the country. Some commentators have questioned whether such gestures could influence perceptions of judicial neutrality.

    Despite the criticism, government officials insist the project is strictly an institutional reform measure aimed at strengthening the justice system.

    Judicial Reform and Infrastructure Push

    The commissioning forms part of a wider series of judicial infrastructure projects in Abuja, including new court complexes and residential developments intended to improve working conditions for judicial officers.

    Authorities say the broader goal is to ensure that the judiciary is well-supported to function independently and efficiently under the Renewed Hope Agenda.