Welcome

Category: Politics

  • Onanuga Defends Tinubu’s Reforms, Says President “Took the Bullets” to Save Nigeria

    Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, has defended the administration’s economic reforms, saying the President made difficult decisions to prevent Nigeria from sliding into fiscal collapse.

    Onanuga made the remarks in an opinion article titled, “Bola Tinubu: the man who took the bullet for Nigeria to survive,” released as Tinubu marks his third year in office on Friday.

    Onanuga Defends Tinubu’s Economic Decisions

    According to the presidential aide, Tinubu inherited a struggling economy plagued by petrol scarcity, multiple exchange rates, rising debt servicing, low government revenue, and an unsustainable fuel subsidy regime.

    He argued that the removal of fuel subsidy and the floating of the naira were painful but necessary reforms aimed at stabilising the economy and preventing further financial crisis.

    “The man who has taken the bullets to make Nigeria survive a fiscal disaster is even more willing to take additional bullets to make all Nigerians safe,” Onanuga stated.

    He added that the reforms had significantly improved allocations to states and local governments, enabling many state governments to pay salaries and execute projects.

    States Benefiting From Increased Allocations

    Onanuga claimed governors across different states had acknowledged improvements in state finances since the reforms began.

    “In every state I have visited, I have seen this development. Ogun, my state, Oyo, Nasarawa, Enugu, Ebonyi, Kaduna, Kano, Kebbi, Katsina, and others have witnessed development projects spring up,” he said.

    He also stated that local government areas would benefit further once direct allocations from the Federation Account fully commence.

    The presidential spokesman dismissed allegations that opposition governors defecting to the APC were induced financially.

    According to him, many governors joined the ruling party because of what they viewed as positive economic changes under Tinubu’s administration.

    Stock Market Growth, Infrastructure Highlighted

    Onanuga further pointed to developments in the Nigerian stock market as evidence of economic recovery.

    He said the All-Share Index had increased from about 53,000 points in May 2023 to around 250,000 points, while market capitalisation rose from ₦30 trillion to ₦160 trillion.

    The presidential aide also highlighted ongoing infrastructure projects including the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, Sokoto-Badagry Super Highway, rail modernisation initiatives, and reforms in the oil and gas sector.

    He added that the government had expanded access to student loans through the Nigerian Education Loan Fund and introduced consumer credit initiatives under CREDICORP.

    On Insecurity Challenges

    Despite defending the administration’s achievements, Onanuga admitted that insecurity remains a serious challenge in parts of the country.

    He said the government continues to support security agencies with equipment, intelligence cooperation, and other resources aimed at tackling terrorism, banditry, and violent crimes.

    According to him, historians would eventually remember the Tinubu administration for implementing “historic reforms” and major infrastructure projects designed to reposition Nigeria’s economy.

    The statement comes amid continued public debate over the impact of Tinubu’s economic policies on inflation, cost of living, unemployment, and insecurity since he assumed office in May 2023.

  • Chidi Mike Distances Self From “City Boy Movement,” Backs Obi-Kwankwaso Alliance

    Nigerian businessman and public figure Chidi Mike has stirred reactions online after making political remarks during a BBC Igbo interview, where he criticised the “City Boy movement” and declared support for a possible Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso alliance.

    The businessman also spoke about his close relationship with nightlife entrepreneur Obi Cubana and entertainment promoter Cubana Chief Priest.

    Speaks On Obi Cubana, Cubana Chief Priest

    During the interview, Chidi Mike described Obi Cubana and Cubana Chief Priest as people he shares a strong personal bond with, likening their relationship to that of biological brothers.

    According to him, despite their closeness, they do not always share the same political views or alignments.

    “Relationship between me, Obi Cubana and Cubana Chief Priest is like three brothers from the same parents,” he said.

    Criticism Of “City Boy Movement”

    The businessman criticised supporters of the “City Boy movement,” arguing that the country’s current economic situation demands greater concern for ordinary Nigerians.

    He stated that he had personally advised some of his associates against promoting political movements that, according to him, fail to reflect the realities of hardship facing citizens.

    “My brothers are doing the City Boy movement, I called them and told them that the movement is not good because Nigerians are suffering,” he stated.

    Chidi Mike added that he values people above financial or political interests.

    Comments On Peter Obi And Kenneth Okonkwo

    He also addressed political conversations involving Labour Party figure Peter Obi and actor-turned-politician Kenneth Okonkwo.

    According to him, Nigerians should not allow political narratives to distract them from what he described as the need for visionary leadership.

    “Nigerians should stop listening to someone like Kenneth Okonkwo, he is a distraction,” he said.

    The businessman further defended Peter Obi, arguing that political attacks against him are unfair.

    “Peter can’t be a black man today and you expect him to change to a white man tomorrow,” he added.

    Calls For Political Unity

    Chidi Mike also called for stronger political cooperation among Igbo leaders and broader regional collaboration ahead of future elections.

    According to him, political actors from different parts of the country must work together if Nigeria is to overcome its economic and governance challenges.

    He specifically mentioned a possible Obi-Kwankwaso alliance under the NDC platform as a political direction he supports.

    His remarks have since generated reactions online, especially among supporters of different political camps ahead of the 2027 elections.

     

  • Tinubu Says Nigerians’ Sacrifices “Not in Vain” as He Marks Three Years in Office, Highlights Economic Reforms

    President Bola Tinubu has assured Nigerians that the sacrifices made since his administration began in 2023 have not been in vain, insisting that the country is now on a path of recovery and stability as he marked his third year in office.

    In a nationwide message commemorating the anniversary, Tinubu reflected on the economic hardship triggered by key reforms, while maintaining that difficult decisions were necessary to prevent a deeper national crisis.

    Tinubu Defends Economic Reforms

    The President said his administration inherited severe economic and structural challenges, including fuel subsidy payments, forex distortions, rising debt servicing costs, and insecurity across several regions.

    According to him, Nigeria was spending as much as ₦18.4 billion daily on fuel subsidy before it was removed, a move he described as necessary to redirect resources into critical sectors like infrastructure and healthcare.

    He added that foreign exchange reforms had also helped stabilise the economy, reducing losses linked to currency speculation and multiple exchange rates.

    Tinubu stated that while the reforms caused short-term hardship, they were unavoidable for long-term national recovery.

    Claims Of Economic Recovery

    The President said Nigeria’s economy is now more competitive, pointing to improved public finances, rising investor confidence, and stronger capital market performance.

    He noted that the Nigerian Stock Exchange has grown significantly since 2023, with market capitalisation rising sharply over the period.

    Tinubu also highlighted ongoing infrastructure projects, including over 2,700 kilometres of roads under construction, alongside major highway and rail developments aimed at boosting trade and connectivity.

    He further said reforms in the oil and gas sector had attracted new investments, including progress on the NLNG Train 7 project.

    Security And Governance Focus

    On security, Tinubu said his administration remains committed to tackling terrorism, banditry, and other violent crimes across the country.

    He said security agencies have intensified operations and that some communities are now safer compared to previous years, although he acknowledged that challenges still remain.

    The President added that investments in intelligence, surveillance, and military capacity are ongoing to strengthen national security.

    Social Programmes And Youth Initiatives

    Tinubu also highlighted interventions in education, housing, agriculture, and healthcare.

    He said over 1.5 million students have benefited from the Nigerian Education Loan Fund, while housing projects across several states have created thousands of jobs.

    He added that agricultural support programmes are helping farmers improve productivity and reduce food costs, while digital initiatives are expanding opportunities for young Nigerians.

    Call For National Unity

    The President urged Nigerians to remain united and patient, stressing that national development requires collective effort and long-term commitment.

    He said the country has overcome major historical challenges in the past and expressed optimism that Nigeria will emerge stronger from its current difficulties.

    Tinubu also called on citizens to reject division and focus on building a more inclusive and prosperous nation.

    He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to security, economic reform, and national development, saying the ultimate goal is to ensure that every Nigerian can live and work in safety and dignity.

  • Akpabio Praises Tinubu Over Security Gains, Says Insurgents No Longer Control Territories

    Senate President Godswill Akpabio has commended President Bola Tinubu’s administration, saying significant progress has been recorded in the fight against insurgency and violent crimes across Nigeria.

    Akpabio made the remarks during a public appearance, where he insisted that terrorist groups no longer hold visible territorial control in any part of the country.

    Akpabio Highlights Security Improvements

    According to him, Nigeria has witnessed a major shift in its security landscape under the current administration, particularly in areas previously affected by insurgent activity.

    He claimed that the days when armed groups openly hoisted flags in territories under their control are over.

    “There’s no part of Nigeria today that you will have the flag of any insurgent, whether Boko Haram being hoisted,” Akpabio said.

    He also stated that coordinated bomb attacks, which previously occurred in several parts of the country, have reduced significantly.

    Claims Of Reduced Terror Activity

    The Senate President further argued that the current security strategy has helped weaken the operational capacity of insurgent groups across affected regions.

    He maintained that compared to previous years, violent attacks and large-scale coordinated bombings have declined under the present administration.

    However, his comments come amid ongoing reports of kidnappings, bandit attacks and sporadic violence in different parts of the country, especially in rural communities.

    Public Reactions To Statement

    Akpabio’s remarks have generated mixed reactions on social media, with many Nigerians questioning the accuracy of his assessment of the security situation.

    Some users criticised the statement, arguing that insecurity remains a major challenge despite official claims of improvement.

    Others accused political leaders of downplaying the realities faced by residents in affected communities.

    The debate reflects continued public concern over Nigeria’s security situation, even as government officials insist that progress is being made.

    Wider Security Debate Continues

    Nigeria has battled insurgency and banditry for over a decade, with repeated government assurances of military gains against armed groups.

    While authorities have reported territorial recoveries in some regions, attacks on civilians and rural communities continue to be recorded.

    Akpabio’s comments add to the ongoing national conversation about how to measure progress in the fight against insecurity and what indicators best reflect ground realities.

  • Makinde Tells FG to Stop Delaying State Police Amid Rising Insecurity

    Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has called on the Federal Government to stop delaying the establishment of state police, insisting that Nigeria’s worsening insecurity requires urgent decentralisation of policing powers.

    Makinde made the remarks on Thursday in Ibadan during a political gathering, amid growing concerns over recent kidnappings and attacks in parts of Oyo State and other regions of the country.

    Makinde Pushes For State Police

    Speaking during the event, the governor described the South-West security outfit, Amotekun, as only a temporary solution created because the Federal Government failed to approve state police.

    According to him, governors and state assemblies should be allowed to establish and control security structures capable of responding quickly to local threats.

    “FG should stop wasting our time and stop asking the IG of Police to establish State Police,” Makinde said.

    He argued that insecurity challenges affecting communities across Nigeria require localised policing systems rather than complete dependence on federal security agencies.

    Reference To Amotekun And South-West Security

    Makinde also referenced the creation of the Western Nigeria Security Network, popularly known as Amotekun, which was launched by South-West governors in 2020 to tackle rising kidnappings, banditry and violent crimes.

    He noted that Amotekun was introduced because of frustrations over insecurity and delays surrounding the state police debate.

    The governor further stated that Lagos State, under then-Governor Bola Tinubu, did not initially join the regional security arrangement.

    Insecurity Concerns Continue

    The governor’s comments come days after renewed outrage over the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State’s Oriire Local Government Area earlier in May.

    The incident sparked national conversations about the effectiveness of Nigeria’s security structure and renewed calls for decentralised policing.

    Makinde has repeatedly maintained that security remains one of the major priorities of his administration, while urging stronger collaboration between federal and state authorities.

    Debate Over State Police Intensifies

    Nigeria has for years debated the creation of state police as insecurity continues to spread across different regions of the country.

    Supporters argue that governors and local authorities better understand security challenges within their communities and can respond faster than centrally controlled federal forces.

    However, critics have warned that state police could be abused by governors for political purposes or used to intimidate opposition figures.

    Despite those concerns, President Bola Tinubu’s administration has previously expressed support for state police reforms, although constitutional amendments and implementation details remain unresolved.

    Public Reactions Grow

    Makinde’s latest comments have generated mixed reactions online, with many Nigerians supporting his position amid rising insecurity nationwide.

    Others, however, questioned whether state governors can be trusted with full control of police structures without adequate safeguards and oversight mechanisms.

    The growing debate highlights ongoing tensions around Nigeria’s federal structure, security governance and demands for greater autonomy by state governments.

    As insecurity continues to dominate public discourse, pressure is increasing on the Federal Government and lawmakers to decide whether Nigeria should fully embrace decentralised policing.

  • Kwankwaso Fires Back at Governor Yusuf, Defends “Political Boy” Comment

    Former Kano State Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso has intensified his political disagreement with Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf after dismissing claims that he insulted the governor by referring to him as a “boy” or “stooge.”

    Kwankwaso spoke while addressing supporters at his Miller Road residence in Kano, where he defended his comments and insisted they reflected political mentorship within the Kwankwasiyya movement rather than disrespect.

    Kwankwaso Responds to Governor Yusuf

    The latest exchange followed remarks by Governor Yusuf, who reportedly criticised Kwankwaso over comments suggesting he was politically subordinate to him.

    Reacting to the criticism, Kwankwaso argued that several politicians who rose through his political structure had previously been described in similar terms without controversy.

    “I heard that some people said they dislike being called boys. If not for insolence, how could Mai Gidan Ruwa or Aminu Goro say they were not my boys politically?” he said.

    Reference to Ganduje Raises Attention

    Kwankwaso also referenced former Kano State Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje while defending his position.

    “How could even Ganduje deny that he was once my boy?” he added during the address to supporters.

    The remarks appeared aimed at reinforcing his long-standing influence within Kano politics and the Kwankwasiyya political movement, which has remained one of the dominant political structures in the state for years.

    Political Tension Within Kwankwasiyya

    The comments have further fuelled speculation about growing tension between Kwankwaso and Governor Yusuf despite both figures being closely linked politically.

    Governor Yusuf emerged under the Kwankwasiyya political structure and has repeatedly acknowledged Kwankwaso’s role in his political rise. However, recent public disagreements have triggered discussions about possible cracks within the movement.

    Political observers in Kano believe the latest exchange may deepen internal divisions ahead of future political alignments in the state.

    Supporters React as Debate Continues

    The development has generated mixed reactions among supporters of both leaders, with some defending Kwankwaso’s comments as political reality while others described the remarks as unnecessary and disrespectful.

    The dispute also comes amid heightened political activities and realignments ahead of the 2027 elections in Kano and across Nigeria.

  • Atiku Visits Amaechi After Winning ADC Presidential Ticket

    Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar on Thursday visited former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi at his Abuja residence, hours after emerging as the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) for the 2027 election.

    Atiku was accompanied by former Sokoto State Governor Aminu Tambuwal, former ADC National Chairman Ralph Nwosu, and other party leaders during the visit.

    Visit Comes After ADC Primary Victory

    The meeting followed the conclusion of the ADC presidential primary held at the Congress Hall of Transcorp Hilton, Abuja, where Atiku defeated Amaechi and former banker Mohammed Hayatu-Deen to secure the party’s ticket.

    According to results announced by the party, Atiku polled 1,846,370 votes, while Amaechi secured 504,117 votes and Hayatu-Deen received 177,120 votes.

    Former Senate President David Mark, who currently leads the party, later presented the ADC flag to Atiku after his victory was confirmed.

    ADC Rejects Consensus Arrangement

    The ADC had earlier adopted the direct primary option after the three aspirants reportedly declined calls for a consensus candidate ahead of the exercise.

    The primary election attracted attention amid ongoing political realignments ahead of the 2027 general election.

    Despite the contest, Atiku’s visit to Amaechi appeared to signal efforts toward unity within the opposition party after the primary process.

    Atiku Speaks On Meeting

    In a post shared on his X handle after the visit, Atiku disclosed that both leaders discussed the current challenges facing the country, including insecurity and economic hardship.

    “This afternoon, I visited my brother and compatriot, former Governor of Rivers State and ex-Minister of Transportation, Chief Rotimi Amaechi, at his Abuja residence,” Atiku wrote.

    “Beyond the warmth and camaraderie, we had deep and honest conversations about the troubling state of our nation, the growing economic pain, insecurity, and the urgent responsibility on patriotic Nigerians to continue engaging in the search for solutions that can rescue our country from drift and despair.”

    Birthday Banter And Arsenal Joke

    Atiku also revealed that he used the opportunity to celebrate Amaechi’s birthday and joked about Arsenal’s recent success.

    “I also felicitated with him on the occasion of his birthday yesterday and teased that Arsenal’s historic triumph could not have arrived at a better time. Chief Amaechi, a thoroughly well-loaded Gunner, took the banter in very good spirits,” he added.

    The former vice president further joked that Amaechi apologised for not preparing Fisherman Soup before the visit.

    The development comes as opposition parties intensify consultations and coalition talks ahead of the 2027 presidential election in Nigeria.

  • NDC Confirms May 29 Primaries Nationwide Amid Eid Holiday Disruptions

    The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has confirmed that its presidential, governorship, National Assembly and State Assembly primaries will hold nationwide on Friday, May 29, 2026, despite logistical disruptions caused by the Eid-el-Kabir holidays.

    The party disclosed this in a statement signed by its National Chairman, Moses Cleopas, and National Secretary, Barr. Ikenna Enekweizu, following concerns over movement challenges affecting aspirants and party officials across the country.

    NDC Explains Eid Holiday Adjustments

    According to the statement, the party’s original timetable for May 28 and 29 remains valid, but transportation difficulties and limited flight availability disrupted the movement of aspirants and screening committee members after the screening exercise in Abuja.

    The party said May 28 would now be used for arrivals, consultations, INEC documentation, meetings with security agencies and stakeholder engagements across various states ahead of the primaries.

    “Consequently, the party has decided that May 28 should be used for arrivals, documentation with INEC and security agencies, consultative meetings, and other preparations, while the actual primaries will now hold on May 29,” the statement read.

    Party Warns Against Unauthorized Activities

    The NDC stressed that no agency of government, including the police, INEC, Department of State Services (DSS) or any other institution, is expected to participate in activities scheduled for May 28 outside official consultations.

    The party warned that any engagement outside the approved guidelines would be regarded as illegal and unauthorized.

    “No agencies of the state, viz., police, INEC, DSS, etc., are to play any role in the programs and meetings of May 28. Any activities carried out outside these guidelines would be unauthorized and deemed illegal,” the statement added.

    Order Of Primaries Announced

    The party also released the sequence for the nationwide exercise scheduled for May 29.

    According to the NDC, the process will begin with the presidential affirmation, followed by National Assembly primaries and affirmations, State Assembly primaries and affirmations, before concluding with governorship primaries and affirmations.

    It added that all results from across the states would be forwarded to the National Headquarters, where the National Working Committee (NWC) would officially announce the final outcomes.

    The party insisted that no state executive or electoral committee has the authority to independently declare results.

    “We call for understanding and urge all participants to conduct themselves responsibly, as the party has zero tolerance for violence, disorderly conduct, and hooliganism,” the statement noted.

    Electoral Committees Released

    The NDC also unveiled members of its electoral committees assigned to oversee the nationwide primaries across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.

    Among those appointed are Professor Osita Ogbu for Anambra State, Dr. Osusu Osusu for Rivers State, Chief Barnabas Ejisi for the FCT, Dr. Peter Onigah for Ebonyi State, and Alhaji Sidi Abdul Bomi for Lagos State.

    Others include Dr. Kebiru Umoru for Delta State, Barr. Fredrick Owotorufa for Edo State, Comrade Babatunde Ali for Imo State, Dr. Clement Agiangie for Akwa Ibom State, and Mainasara Sani Abubakar for Kano State.

    The party said the constitution of the committees reflects its commitment to credible and transparent primaries ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    The latest development comes as political parties intensify preparations for the 2027 elections amid growing political realignments and internal consultations across the country.

  • Atiku Defeats Amaechi, Hayatu-Deen to Clinch ADC Presidential Ticket for 2027

    Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has emerged as the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress ahead of the 2027 general election.

    Atiku was declared winner late Wednesday night in Abuja after the conclusion of the party’s presidential primary collation process.

    Atiku Defeats Amaechi, Hayatu-Deen

    The results were announced by the chairman of the ADC Presidential Primary Electoral Committee, Tunde Ogbeha.

    According to the official figures released, Atiku polled 1,846,370 votes to defeat former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi, who secured 504,117 votes.

    Economist Mohammed Hayatu-Deen came third with 177,120 votes.

    Ogbeha declared Atiku winner after the two-day collation exercise concluded in Abuja.

    Rivals Reject Outcome

    Despite the announcement, both Amaechi and Hayatu-Deen reportedly rejected the outcome of the primary election and the collation process.

    The details surrounding their objections were not immediately disclosed at the time of filing this report.

    The primary comes after weeks of consultations, negotiations and political realignments within opposition circles ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

    Atiku Makes History Again

    The victory marks the fourth time Atiku will emerge as a presidential candidate in Nigeria’s political history.

    The former vice president previously contested presidential elections under different political platforms, including the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

    His emergence is expected to shape fresh conversations within the opposition coalition as political activities ahead of 2027 continue to gather momentum.

  • Peter Obi Laments Fresh School Abductions, Says Nigeria Has “Little But Shame” on Children’s Day

    Former Anambra State Governor and former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has expressed deep concern over the continued abduction of schoolchildren across Nigeria, describing the situation as a painful stain on the country’s image.

    In a statement shared on his social media page to mark the 2026 Children’s Day celebration, Obi said it was heartbreaking that while many nations were celebrating and protecting their children, several Nigerian children remained in captivity.

    “A Nation That Cannot Protect Its Children”

    According to Obi, the continued circulation of photos and videos of abducted children online reflects the country’s failure to guarantee safety for its youngest citizens.

    “A nation that cannot protect its children from criminals has little but shame to present to the global community,” he wrote.

    The former governor lamented that some children have remained missing for weeks, months and even years, while families continue to live in fear and uncertainty.

    He stressed that the situation has turned what should have been a joyful Children’s Day celebration into a period of mourning and anxiety for many Nigerian families.

    Fresh Outrage Over Oyo School Attack

    Obi’s comments come amid outrage over the recent attack on schools in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, where gunmen reportedly abducted dozens of pupils and teachers.

    Reports indicate that the attackers invaded schools in the area and forcefully took away students, while one teacher was reportedly killed during the incident.

    The attack triggered widespread reactions across the country, with many Nigerians demanding stronger action from security agencies and the Federal Government.

    Governor Seyi Makinde had earlier confirmed intensified rescue efforts, while President Bola Ahmed Tinubu also condemned the attack and ordered security agencies to act swiftly.

    Growing Concern Over Insecurity

    School abductions have remained a major security concern in Nigeria over the past decade, particularly in northern and some southwestern communities.

    Several schools across affected regions have reportedly tightened security measures or suspended activities due to fears of further attacks.

    Obi said the continued attacks on children and educational institutions raise serious concerns about the country’s future and the safety of vulnerable communities.

    Mixed Reactions Trail Obi’s Statement

    While many Nigerians praised Obi for speaking out and drawing attention to the plight of abducted children, others argued that insecurity has remained a long-standing national challenge beyond any single administration.

    On social media, many users described the situation as unacceptable, insisting that children should never become targets of violence or criminal activities.

    The latest incident has again renewed calls for improved security, intelligence gathering, and better protection for schools across the country.