Tag: President Bola Tinubu

  • VeryDarkMan Pushes PVC Registration, Calls for Greater Voter Participation

    Social media critic Martins Vincent Otse has called on Nigerians to take future elections more seriously, urging citizens to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and actively participate in the democratic process.

    Speaking in a video shared online, the activist argued that elected officials should be removed through the ballot box if they fail to meet public expectations.

    Call for Greater Voter Participation

    VeryDarkMan said voting remains one of the strongest tools available to citizens seeking change and accountability in governance.

    According to him, politicians would become more responsible if they understood that voters were prepared to replace them when they failed to deliver.

    “If we can vote President Tinubu out of power, Nigeria will improve by at least 70%. It would send a message that whoever we elect can be removed if they fail to perform,” he said.

    Criticism of Low Voter Registration

    The activist also expressed concern over what he described as low voter participation among Nigerians, particularly those who frequently discuss political issues on social media.

    He urged citizens to begin encouraging others to register and obtain their PVCs ahead of future elections.

    “That alone will make anyone seeking power understand that they must deliver and do the right thing. Everybody should start preaching to everyone to get their voter card, the time is now. Eighty percent of people that talk on social media don’t even have PVC,” he added.

    Debate Over Governance and Accountability

    His comments come amid ongoing national conversations about insecurity, economic challenges and public accountability.

    While some Nigerians have supported his call for increased voter participation, others have debated his assessment of the current administration and the role elections play in addressing governance concerns.

    VeryDarkMan has consistently encouraged greater civic engagement, maintaining that meaningful political change can only be achieved when citizens actively participate in the electoral process.

  • Oborevwori Explains Why Deltans Should Back Tinubu in 2027

    Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State has said it would be wrong for Deltans to vote against President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election, citing the President’s family connection to the state through First Lady Oluremi Tinubu.

    Speaking during an interview on Arise Television on Tuesday, the governor argued that Tinubu enjoys a unique relationship with Delta State that goes beyond politics and should earn him support from the people.

    Tinubu Has Family Ties to Delta, Says Governor

    Oborevwori described the President as an in-law to the state and suggested that the relationship should influence voting decisions in 2027.

    “The man is an in-law here, and it would be evil to vote against your in-law. It’s a family affair,” the governor said.

    He added that many people in the South-South region now regard Tinubu as one of their own because of his connection to the area.

    First Lady’s Influence

    The governor also linked growing support for the President in Delta State to First Lady Oluremi Tinubu’s roots and relationship with the people.

    “The First Lady is holding the state strong, and no Itsekiri person will vote against Tinubu. No Urhobo man will because their son is the governor,” he stated.

    His comments come months after the First Lady received a traditional title in the Warri Kingdom.

    In February 2026, Oluremi Tinubu was installed as Utukpa-Oritse, also known as Ugbone, meaning “Light of God,” by the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III.

    Defends Tinubu’s Economic Reforms

    Oborevwori also defended the economic policies of the Tinubu administration, arguing that federal reforms have increased revenue available to states and supported development projects.

    “Sometimes when I commission projects and say we have money, it is because of the reforms. If they were not working, we would not have funds,” he said.

    The governor maintained that the impact of the reforms is reflected in the improved financial capacity of state governments to execute projects and meet development goals.

  • Falana Calls on Tinubu to Extend Forest Guard Initiative to Borno Amid Insecurity Concerns

    Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), Femi Falana, has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to approve the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards for Borno State and deploy a high-level Federal Government delegation to the state in response to worsening insecurity.

    Falana made the appeal in a statement issued on Monday, June 1, linking his call to the Federal Government’s recent security intervention in Oyo State following the abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area.

    Call for Expanded Security Measures

    According to Falana, the Federal Government had already demonstrated urgency in responding to the Oyo incident by sending a high-powered delegation and approving the recruitment of forest guards to strengthen local security support.

    He noted that President Tinubu had also directed the creation of a specialised security unit to aid rescue operations for abducted victims in the South-West.

    Falana argued that similar intervention should be extended to Borno State, where he said insecurity has remained persistent.

    Concern Over Abductions in Borno

    The human rights lawyer said not less than 415 abducted schoolchildren and other citizens were currently in captivity in forests within Borno State, calling for urgent federal attention.

    “In view of the fact that not less than 415 abducted schoolchildren and other citizens are in the illegal custody of bandits and terrorists in unknown forests in Borno State, President Tinubu should also dispatch a high-powered federal delegation to visit the state in solidarity with the people,” he said.

    He also urged the Federal Government to approve the recruitment of forest guards in the state to strengthen local security operations.

    Push for Armed and Trained Forest Guards

    Falana stressed that any forest guard initiative must be backed with proper training and equipment, noting that criminal groups are often heavily armed.

    “The forest guards must be well trained and fully equipped to confront the bandits and terrorists who are armed with AK-47 rifles and other dangerous weapons,” he stated.

    Call for Legal Action Review

    The Senior Advocate also suggested that the Federal Government reconsider ongoing legal action against members of the Nigeria Forest Security Service, following what he described as a policy shift towards forest-based security operations.

    He added that the Attorney-General of the Federation should discontinue the criminal case against the affected individuals in light of the new security approach.

    The call comes amid renewed national debate on how to strengthen internal security architecture and address rising cases of kidnapping across multiple regions in Nigeria.

  • Tinubu Commissions Three Naval Vessels, Hails Navy at 70

    President Bola Tinubu on Monday commended the Nigerian Navy for its contributions to maritime security and national development as the service marked its 70th anniversary in Lagos.

    The President made the remarks at the 2026 International Fleet Review held at the Eko Atlantic Waterfront, where he also commissioned three naval vessels: NNS Oloibiri, NNS Mambila and NNS Gurara.

    Tinubu Praises Maritime Security Efforts

    Speaking as the reviewing officer, Bola Ahmed Tinubu praised the Navy’s efforts in tackling piracy, crude oil theft, illegal fishing, maritime smuggling and other crimes in the Gulf of Guinea.

    He noted that operations against crude oil theft and maritime criminality have helped boost oil production, improve government revenue and strengthen investor confidence.

    “Beyond the maritime domain, I also commend the Nigerian Navy for its contributions to counterterrorism and counterinsurgency operations across the country,” Tinubu said.

    He also praised the Navy’s Special Boat Service and expressed confidence that the recent deployment of Nigerian Navy Marines would further enhance security operations.

    Navy Described as Key Security Institution

    The President described the Navy as a critical pillar of national and regional security, highlighting its role in protecting Nigeria’s territorial waters and supporting economic activities.

    According to him, the effective use of surveillance systems, rapid response mechanisms and enforcement operations has helped eliminate piracy in Nigerian waters while reducing crude oil theft and related crimes.

    “Your theme for this milestone event, ‘Seven Decades of Operational Excellence,’ is not merely a slogan but a proven reality,” he said.

    Tinubu also thanked foreign naval delegations and partner countries for participating in the fleet review, describing their presence as a sign of growing international cooperation in maritime security.

    Commitment to Naval Modernisation

    The President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening the operational capacity of the Navy through investments in modern platforms, technology, personnel welfare, training and capacity development.

    He congratulated the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, officers, ratings, veterans and families of naval personnel for their service to the country.

    Naval Chief Highlights Progress

    Vice Admiral Abbas attributed the Navy’s recent successes to government support, strategic investments and improved collaboration among security agencies.

    He said the acquisition of modern platforms and enhanced surveillance capabilities had strengthened Nigeria’s maritime security architecture and improved efforts against piracy, crude oil theft, sea robbery and illegal fishing.

    The naval chief pledged the continued loyalty of officers and ratings to the Constitution and assured Nigerians that the Navy would remain committed to protecting the nation’s maritime domain.

    Top Dignitaries Attend Event

    Among dignitaries present were Babajide Sanwo-Olu, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, Nuhu Ribadu, Minister of State for Defence Bello Matawalle, and senior military and security officials.

    Chiefs of Naval Staff from several Gulf of Guinea countries, including Ghana, Benin, Liberia and Sierra Leone, also attended the event.

  • Tinubu Condoles Oyo Victims, Vows Safe Return of Abducted Pupils

    President Bola Tinubu has expressed sympathy with families affected by the abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, assuring them that efforts to secure the victims’ release will continue.

    In a statement released on Monday, the President said no child should be taken from the safety of a classroom, as concern grows over the May 15 attack on communities in Esiele and Yawota.

    Tinubu Commiserates With Families

    The President said he shares in the pain and anxiety of affected families following the abduction, which has attracted nationwide attention and renewed concerns about school security.

    “No child should be taken from the safety of a classroom. No parent should have to endure this anguish,” Tinubu said.

    He also extended condolences to the family of Michael Oyedokun, the teacher killed during the attack.

    “I also extend my deepest condolences to the family of the late teacher, Mrs Mary Oyedokun. Her sacrifice will not be forgotten, and her family will not be abandoned,” he added.

    FG Promises Sustained Rescue Efforts

    Tinubu assured Nigerians that security agencies would continue coordinated efforts to rescue the abducted pupils and teachers.

    According to him, the operation will be intelligence-driven and supported by both kinetic and non-kinetic measures.

    “Our rescue efforts will be intelligence-led, careful, coordinated, and sustained. We will deploy every lawful tool available, both kinetic and non-kinetic, to ensure our children and teachers are safely returned home,” he said.

    High-Level Delegation Visits Communities

    The President’s statement comes after a high-powered Federal Government delegation visited the affected communities in Oriire Local Government Area.

    The delegation included the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, the Minister of Defence, and Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun.

    The visit followed renewed calls for urgent action as families continue to await the release of the victims.

    Governor Seyi Makinde had earlier visited the communities and assured residents that his administration would take all lawful measures to secure the release of those still in captivity.

  • Tinubu Approves Recruitment of 1,000 Forest Guards in Oyo Over Rising Insecurity, Abduction Crisis

    President Bola Tinubu has approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards in Oyo State as part of urgent measures aimed at strengthening security following recent abductions in parts of the state.

    The decision comes amid growing concerns over insecurity in the state, particularly the kidnapping of students and teachers from schools in Oriire Local Government Area.

    The development was disclosed on Sunday, May 31, during a visit by a high-level federal government delegation to Esiele and Yawota communities in Oriire.

    The delegation was led by the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila.

    Security Reinforcement Measures

    During the visit, the delegation informed community leaders that the request for the establishment of a military base in the affected area would be forwarded to President Tinubu for consideration.

    Gbajabiamila also disclosed that the President had directed a specialised security unit with advanced capabilities to intensify rescue operations aimed at securing the release of the abducted pupils and teachers.

    According to him, the recruitment of forest guards forms part of a broader strategy to improve surveillance and respond to security threats in forested and vulnerable areas.

    Presidential Commitment to Rescue Efforts

    Gbajabiamila said President Tinubu is deeply concerned about the abduction and has ordered full support for security agencies involved in the rescue mission.

    “Mr. President is deeply troubled by this incident. Whatever it takes, our children and teachers will be brought back home safely,” he said.

    He added that the rescue operation would be intelligence-led and carefully coordinated, combining both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches to ensure the safe return of the victims.

    Community Reassurance

    The delegation assured affected communities that the Federal Government is committed to addressing insecurity in the region and preventing future attacks on schools.

    The move comes as authorities continue efforts to locate and rescue abducted students and teachers, while security agencies intensify operations across vulnerable areas in Oyo State.

  • Deji Adeyanju Faces Backlash After Blaming Peter Obi for Tinubu’s 2027 Chances

    Human rights activist and lawyer Deji Adeyanju has come under heavy criticism after accusing opposition figures, particularly Peter Obi, of helping President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s chances ahead of the 2027 general election.

    Adeyanju made the remarks while commenting on the country’s worsening insecurity and kidnapping crisis, arguing that a divided opposition could once again weaken efforts to unseat the ruling party.

    Adeyanju Points Finger at Opposition

    In a statement shared online, Adeyanju said opposition leaders risk repeating the mistakes of the 2023 election by failing to unite.

    According to him, ongoing divisions among opposition figures could split votes and create a pathway for Tinubu to secure a second term in office.

    “If Tinubu gets re-elected in 2027, blame Peter Obi and the other contractor-general. With all the insecurity and kidnapping in the country, they are the ones aggressively working for his second term by ensuring opposition votes are divided like they did in 2023,” he wrote.

    Social Media Users Push Back

    His comments quickly triggered reactions across social media, with many Nigerians rejecting his position and questioning why opposition figures should be blamed for the country’s current challenges.

    One user, identified as Abraham, accused Adeyanju of offering criticism without presenting solutions.

    “Oga, rest, what is your own contribution toward getting a better deal in 2027? Nothing whatsoever than to come out here and insult everyone without any suggestion,” he wrote.

    Another commenter, D’xtaga, defended Peter Obi, insisting that the former Labour Party presidential candidate remains one of the strongest political figures in the country.

    “Who’s the most popular southern candidate with the best chance of winning if elections are held today?” he asked.

    Debate Over 2027 Election Intensifies

    Some Nigerians linked the current wave of insecurity to political developments ahead of the next election cycle.

    Akins Boy argued that similar security concerns emerged before previous elections, suggesting that the current situation should be viewed in a broader political context.

    Others maintained that public attention should remain focused on the performance of the current administration rather than opposition figures.

    Obi Supporters Reject Allegations

    Supporters of Peter Obi were among the strongest critics of Adeyanju’s remarks, insisting that responsibility for insecurity and economic hardship rests with those currently in government.

    One commenter, Damilare, accused Adeyanju of turning Obi into a scapegoat.

    “Why is all the blame on Peter Obi? People are making him the scapegoat for the incompetence of this government. Anyone in their right state of mind won’t vote Tinubu in 2027 with all the happenings in the country,” he said.

    Another user, Ade, argued that President Tinubu could face a difficult re-election battle despite assumptions about his support base.

    The exchange highlights growing political tensions as conversations around the 2027 presidential election continue to gain momentum amid concerns over insecurity, governance and economic hardship in Nigeria.

  • Defence Minister Christopher Musa Urges Nigerians to Back Tinubu, Says Reforms Need More Time

    Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa, has called on Nigerians to continue supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, insisting that the administration’s reforms require more time to achieve their intended results.

    Musa made the appeal during a recent interview with journalists, where he argued that many of the country’s current challenges are rooted in long-standing issues that previous administrations failed to address.

    “Tinubu Is Taking Bold Decisions”

    According to the Defence Minister, President Tinubu has demonstrated courage by confronting problems that had been ignored for years.

    He said the administration’s policies may be difficult for many citizens at the moment but maintained that the reforms are necessary for Nigeria’s long-term stability and development.

    “If he could have done this in three years, imagine if he has four or five additional years to finish. We need Nigerians to understand that a lot of things that were left out are what he is tackling. He is taking very bold action,” Musa said.

    Calls for Patience Amid Hardship

    The minister acknowledged the economic and social difficulties many Nigerians are facing but urged citizens to remain patient.

    Using childbirth as an analogy, Musa said periods of hardship often precede positive outcomes.

    “When you take bold action, there will be difficulty at the beginning, but at the end of it, it’s just like a woman that is pregnant. Immediately she delivers, she’ll be joyful. What we are going through is making us stronger, and we are going to come out better,” he added.

    Mixed Public Reactions

    Musa’s comments have sparked debate on social media, with supporters agreeing that major reforms often require time before benefits become visible.

    However, critics argue that many Nigerians are struggling with rising living costs, unemployment and security concerns, making it difficult to embrace calls for patience.

    Despite the criticism, the Defence Minister expressed confidence that Nigeria would emerge stronger if the current administration is allowed to complete its reform agenda.

  • Tinubu Sends Ribadu, Gbajabiamila, Security Chiefs to Oyo Abduction Scene as Pressure Mounts on Rescue Efforts

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has dispatched a high-level federal delegation, led by National Security Adviser (NSA) Nuhu Ribadu, to communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State following the abduction of students and teachers in a coordinated attack.

    The visit comes two weeks after armed men reportedly stormed schools in the Ahoro-Esiele and Yawota axis, abducting more than 45 students, alongside six teachers and a principal in a morning raid that has continued to trigger nationwide concern.

    Federal Delegation Arrives Oyo Communities

    According to visuals circulating online, members of the delegation were seen arriving in the affected communities amid tight security presence.

    The team includes key federal officials such as the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila; Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun; Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa; Minister of Power, Joseph Tegbe; and presidential aide Sunday Dare.

    In a post on X, Sunday Dare said President Tinubu had activated coordinated efforts aimed at securing the release of the victims and tracking down the attackers.

    He wrote that the delegation was deployed to the Ogbomoso axis, which falls under the Oriire Local Government Area, describing the attack as a serious national security concern requiring immediate intervention.

    Makinde’s Earlier Visit

    The federal visit follows an earlier visit by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, who met with families of the abducted victims and assured residents that both state and federal security agencies were working to secure their release.

    Makinde had pledged that all legal and operational measures would be deployed to ensure the safe return of the students and teachers.

    Rising Security Concerns

    The attack has intensified concerns over school safety and rural insecurity in parts of the state, with growing calls for stronger protection of educational institutions and faster response mechanisms during such incidents.

    Security agencies have continued operations in the area as pressure mounts on authorities to secure the safe return of the abducted victims.

  • Tinubu Defends Fuel Subsidy Removal, Says Nigeria Escaped Bankruptcy

    President Bola Tinubu has defended his administration’s decision to remove fuel subsidy, stating that the move saved Nigeria from imminent bankruptcy and helped stabilise the economy.

    The President made the remarks on Friday while hosting state governors at his Ikoyi residence in Lagos during Eid-el-Kabir celebrations and activities marking the third anniversary of his administration.

    Tinubu Says Reforms Prevented Economic Collapse

    According to Tinubu, the subsidy removal was a difficult but necessary decision that faced strong opposition, legal battles and public criticism.

    “It was challenging at the time, but we survived. We faced litigation and accusations. We survived them. Instead of bankruptcy, Nigeria has survived. The economy has recovered. It is growing. Agriculture is booming,” the President said.

    He argued that the fuel subsidy regime drained public resources while benefiting only a small segment of the population.

    President Highlights Economic Gains

    Tinubu said ongoing reforms in infrastructure, agriculture, social investments, fiscal management and foreign exchange policies are beginning to produce positive results.

    “I’m glad governors are no longer borrowing from the federal government and asking for interventions and not knowing how to survive, how to pay salaries, no more,” he said.

    The President added that construction projects are progressing nationwide, abandoned roads are being rehabilitated, and the housing sector is experiencing renewed growth.

    He also expressed optimism that Nigeria could achieve food sovereignty if states fully utilise available agricultural land.

    Sokoto-Badagry Highway Cited as Key Project

    Tinubu pointed to the Sokoto-Badagry Super Highway project as a major economic corridor with vast opportunities for agriculture, irrigation and electricity generation.

    “Imagine how many dams on that corridor for irrigation, for farmland, for electricity,” he said.

    The President thanked governors for supporting his administration’s reforms and encouraging Nigerians to remain patient through the economic adjustment period.

    Shettima Praises Tinubu’s Courage

    Vice President Kashim Shettima described the reforms as a bold effort to address long-standing structural problems in the country.

    “You chose not to postpone the surgery. You chose not to massage the wound. You chose to confront the contradictions that have held this country hostage for 50 years,” Shettima said.

    He added that the administration was engaged in the difficult task of rebuilding and repositioning the nation for long-term growth.

    Governors Back Tinubu’s Policies

    Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and Governor of Kwara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, said the reforms had improved state finances and reduced dependence on borrowing.

    “I think the nation was shocked by the audacity of Mr President to implement that serious policy, but today, it has benefited immensely from that policy,” he said.

    Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma also praised Tinubu’s performance, claiming that governors had assessed the administration positively.

    “You have virtually recovered Nigeria from the brink of collapse to a state of stability and survival,” Uzodinma said.

    Several governors attended the meeting, including those from Lagos, Ogun, Enugu, Delta, Edo, Ondo, Ekiti, Niger, Sokoto, Kebbi, Jigawa, Nasarawa, Taraba, Adamawa, Benue and Kogi states.