N1,470 fuel hike: Don’t push Nigerians to their limits, ADC warns Tinubu

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has warned President Bola Ahmed Tinubu that the rising cost of petrol and other essential commodities is pushing Nigerians “dangerously close to the limits of human endurance.”

The party said the reported increase in petrol prices to as much as N1,470 per litre had worsened the cost of living, with transportation, food, education, electricity and other basic necessities becoming increasingly unaffordable.

In a statement issued on Tuesday by its National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC accused the Tinubu administration of implementing economic policies that had imposed excessive hardship on households, workers and businesses.

“President Tinubu has turned the petrol pump into an instrument of punishment for everyday Nigerians. Food, transportation, electricity, education, and everything Nigerians need to survive responds directly to the price of fuel and combine together to make life difficult for the majority of Nigerians,” the party said.

The ADC also expressed concern over reported increases in private school fees, saying some schools had raised tuition by between 30 and 40 per cent despite the absence of corresponding increases in workers’ incomes.

It argued that the development was another indication of the pressure being placed on Nigerian families by the rising cost of living.

“Parents are not earning 40 per cent more. Their salaries have not risen with the prices of fuel, food, rent, transportation, and school fees. Yet, at every turn, this government demands that already exhausted families pay more,” the party said.

However, the opposition party said it did not blame school proprietors for the increases, arguing that private schools were themselves facing higher operating costs arising from taxes, electricity bills, fuel, rent and staff salaries.

“Parents, workers, and businesses are all casualties of Tinubu and the APC’s economy,” it said.

The ADC described the current petrol price as a “Tinubu Tax,” alleging that the removal of fuel subsidy had transmitted additional costs across virtually every sector of the economy.

“At N1,470 per litre, petrol is no longer simply a commodity. It is Tinubu Tax, which has made life unbearable for the majority,” the party said.

According to the ADC, many families were now being forced to make difficult choices, including reducing food consumption, withdrawing children from school and delaying medical treatment, while some businesses were struggling to remain operational.

The party argued that the Federal Government could not continue to demand sacrifices from ordinary Nigerians while public officials were allegedly maintaining extravagant lifestyles with public resources.

“A reform that continuously makes the people poorer is not working. An economic policy that produces impressive figures at government briefings but hunger in Nigerian homes is a failure,” the party said.

It added that when parents were forced to choose between feeding their children and paying school fees, the government had failed in its basic responsibility.

The ADC said the 2027 general election would provide Nigerians with an opportunity to choose between continuing with what it described as the Tinubu administration’s economic hardship and the alternative economic programme proposed by its presidential candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar.

The party reiterated Atiku’s commitment to reducing petrol prices by restoring a form of subsidy targeted at supporting domestic fuel production.

According to the ADC, such a policy would help reduce transportation, food and production costs and provide relief to households and businesses.

“Unlike Tinubu and APC, we recognise that economic reform must serve the people, not sacrifice them,” it said.

The party maintained that Nigeria, as an oil-producing country, should not have citizens experiencing every visit to a filling station as an economic punishment.

The ADC also warned the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) against interpreting Nigerians’ resilience in the face of economic hardship as acceptance of government policies.

It urged the President to take immediate measures to address the rising cost of living and ease the burden on households and businesses.

“Their resilience must not become an excuse for continued cruelty. Tinubu has had enough time and inflicted enough pain. The people are suffering, businesses are dying, and hope is becoming increasingly expensive.

“President Tinubu must act now. Don’t push Nigerians to their limits,” the party warned.

Authority.

2027: How ready are you? AU queries INEC as delegation visits Commission

The African Union (AU) has asked the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to provide details of its level of preparedness for the 2027 general elections, particularly on voter registration, technology, logistics, funding, inclusivity and public confidence.

The AU made the enquiries when its Pre-Election and Needs Assessment Mission, led by former Ethiopian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Demeke Mekonnen, paid a courtesy visit to the electoral commission in Abuja on Tuesday.

The mission, which is in Nigeria from September 13 to 19, 2026, said its objective was to assess the country’s electoral preparedness, identify potential gaps and recommend possible remedies ahead of the elections.

Mekonnen said INEC was one of the key stakeholders the delegation had prioritised because of its central role in the electoral process.

He said the mission was supportive rather than supervisory, adding that the AU delegation wanted to understand the commission’s preparations and identify areas where additional support might be required.

According to him, the minimum standards for an election should include credibility, transparency, fairness and inclusivity, with a level playing field for all political actors.

The former Ethiopian deputy prime minister said the delegation was particularly interested in INEC’s readiness across the pre-election, election and post-election phases.

He asked whether the voter register would be finalised in time and whether it would be credible and ready for scrutiny by stakeholders and the public.

Mekonnen also sought clarification on the commission’s preparedness to deploy technology, particularly the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) and the INEC Result Viewing Portal (IReV), in light of lessons from previous elections.

He said the delegation was also interested in the logistical and operational challenges associated with conducting elections in a country as large and geographically diverse as Nigeria.

“From the election process, pre-election periods, the election periods, and the post-election cases are the important and sequential process of this. The pre-election period is the most important one,” he said.

The AU delegation also asked whether INEC had received adequate and timely funding for the 2027 elections, stressing that resources were essential to conducting credible, transparent and fair elections.

Mekonnen further sought information on measures being taken to promote inclusion, particularly the participation of youths, women and other groups in voter registration and the broader electoral process.

He said Nigeria’s growing youth population made their participation particularly important to the credibility of the democratic process.

The mission also raised concerns about transparency and public confidence, asking INEC what measures it was taking to strengthen accountability and trust among citizens and other stakeholders.

Responding, INEC Chairman, Prof Joash Amupitan, represented by National Commissioner May Agbamuche-Mbu, welcomed the AU delegation and described the mission as an important peer-assessment mechanism ahead of the 2027 elections.

Agbamuche-Mbu said the commission was preparing for an unprecedented operational deployment involving a voter population approaching 100 million, 176,846 polling units and an ad-hoc workforce exceeding 1.4 million personnel.

She said INEC had used recent off-cycle elections in Anambra, the Federal Capital Territory, Ekiti and Osun as proving grounds for reforms under the Electoral Act 2026.

According to her, the August 15, 2026 Osun State governorship election provided a benchmark for administrative efficiency, with early-morning logistical opening rates exceeding 94 per cent.

She also cited the performance of the biometric voter accreditation system, results transmission through the IReV portal and inter-agency security coordination as areas where the commission recorded progress.

Agbamuche-Mbu said INEC was also collaborating with the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) to integrate national identification numbers into its Continuous Voter Registration process.

She explained that the initiative was designed to help audit, verify and clean the national voter register ahead of the 2027 elections.

“Nevertheless, conducting a national election across a country as vast and complex as Nigeria presents continuous technological, logistical, and political challenges,” she said.

The commission subsequently identified areas where it would welcome technical and institutional assistance from the AU.

These include digital training methodologies for more than 1.4 million election personnel, e-learning tools, digital simulation models and standardised ICT training protocols.

INEC also requested assistance on countering election disinformation, particularly the use of artificial intelligence to create deepfakes and coordinated fake-news campaigns.

Other areas highlighted included strengthening the Election Monitoring and Support Centre as an operational tracking, evaluation and early-warning mechanism, as well as capacity-building workshops.

The commission further sought assistance in strengthening electoral inclusion and gender-mainstreaming frameworks, including improved participation of persons with disabilities, internally displaced persons and other underrepresented groups.

Agbamuche-Mbu assured the AU delegation of INEC’s full cooperation as it engages political parties, civil society organisations, security agencies, media executives and development partners during its assessment.

She said the commission would provide the mission with relevant operational data to support its assessment report.

The INEC chairman, she added, remained committed to the independence, neutrality and professionalism of the commission, insisting that all administrative decisions would be guided by the law.

“Every technical deployment will serve transparency, and the final outcome of the 2027 general election will reflect nothing less than the sovereign will of the Nigerian electorate,” she said.

Authority.

2027: Wike hits back at APC Govs, says my support only for Tinubu

*Insists PDP will field candidates in other elections

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has reiterated that his support for the reelection of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remained sacrosanct, saying he never promised that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) will not field candidates in governoship, National Assembly and States House of Assembly elections.

The Minister said the rainbow coalition does not have anything to do with the All Progressives Congress (APC), describing the coalition as a platform for other political parties that are pleased with the good works of the President and are supporting his reelection.

In a statement on Tuesday, by his Senior Special Assistant to the Minister on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka, the FCT Minister, who said he won’t be the one to help people to win elections in their States, noted that “politics is local and those having problems in their States should resolve them instead of using the reelection of the President to whip up sentiments.”

Wike pointed out that he never met with the All Progressives Congress (APC) before himself and other members of the G5 supported the President in 2023, and that for 2027, his support is for the president only.

The Minister said politics is no longer about coming from fourth position to be governor, it is about genuinely mobilising support and winning elections from the polling units.

He asked; “In Imo State under Governor Hope Uzodinma, how did APC win two senate seats in 2023, in an election held the same day with that of the President and APC had less than 15 percent in the presidential election? Was it rainbow coalition? Were the voters confused?

“Was it rainbow coalition that also made APC to win National Assembly elections in Ebonyi, Abia and Enugu States where the President did not have ten percent of the votes?

“If in 2023, the voters in Imo, Abia, Enugu and Ebonyi voted APC in the Senatorial election and voted another party in the presidential election, they won’t be confused in 2027 provided we all support the president genuinely this time?

The Minister urged all stakeholders to put the presidential election first, saying; “after the President must have been reelected, we can all go and face elections in our States.”

“What I said and stand for is that I will mobilise support for the reelection of the President. I never promised anyone that PDP will not field candidates to contest governorship, National Assembly and States House of Assembly elections.

“Most importantly, rainbow coalition has nothing to do with the APC. Rather, it is own way of mobilising support accross political parties for Mr President, who has done well to deserve a second term,” he said.

600 Varsity dons endorsing Tinubu puts credibility of 2027 election to doubt -Obi

The Peter Obi Media Office has expressed serious doubts on the credibility of the next general elections.
A statement on Tuesday from the Office said the endorsement of the President and candidate of the All Progressive Congress (APC), Bola Tinubu by some 600 academics from Tertiary institutions across the country has already exposed the elections to manipulation since the same lecturers would be engaged as electoral officials for the same elections.
The Office said that it “has become aware of reports that approximately 600 university academics have endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“This development is profoundly troubling and should be recognised for what it signifies: an early attempt to build and legitimise a network of partisan actors ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
“These individuals are not just 600 private citizens expressing their political preferences; they belong to an institution that has frequently provided electoral officials, including returning officers,” the statement said.
Going further, the Office said: “Their public backing for the incumbent consequently raises a serious and unavoidable question: is the framework for manipulating the 2027 election already being established?
“We have seen this pattern before. Electoral rigging does not suddenly occur on election day; it begins months or even years earlier through the identification, cultivation, and placement of individuals capable of influencing the process when votes are finally cast.”

The Office then said: “That is why Nigerians must remain vigilant now. When academics who might be assigned sensitive electoral responsibilities openly organise to endorse the very candidate whose election they might later help oversee, the risk of conflict of interest is evident.
“This sets the stage for a compromised electoral process and undermines public trust in the impartiality of those who may be responsible for announcing the results.

“Let no one deceive Nigerians: preparations for electoral manipulation may start long before voting begins.”
Turning to election officials, the statement said: “We therefore urge INEC to release the names of all 600 + academics involved in this or any other political endorsement and to formally prohibit them from serving as Returning Officers, Collation Officers, or electoral staff during the 2027 general elections.

“INEC must also publish the complete list of all prospective Collation and Returning Officers well in advance of future elections, allowing civil society, political parties, and the public to evaluate their political neutrality.
“We further call on university governing councils and academic bodies nationwide to adopt strict conflict- of- interest rules that prevent staff from using their professional academic positions to facilitate partisan political mobilisation. Nigerians are watching.
“The machinery for rigging must not be allowed to take root before the election even begins. The people must choose their leaders, and the outcome must be decided by their votes—not by a pre- arranged electoral network,” the Media Office concluded.

Ned Nwoko emerges BusinessDay Top 10 Senators of the 10th National Assembly

The lawmaker representing Delta North Senatorial District in the National Assembly, Senator Prince Ned Munir Nwoko has emerged as the BusinessDayTop 10 Senators of the 10th National Assembly for people-focused and performance-driven service

A statement on Tuesday from the media office the legislator said Senator Nwoko was nominated by the management of Business Day on account of his unprecedented legislative contributions and commitment to effective representation.

According to the statement, the lawmaker has vigorously championed initiatives focused on economic development, institutional reforms and improved opportunities for Nigerians, while advancing the interests of his constituents in Delta North.

The recognition further places his legislative performance among those considered notable in the 10th Senate.

Below are the
criteria used by Business Day to evaluate the performances of Senator Nwoko before he was recognised as one of the Top 10 Senators of the 10th National Assembly

Business Day reports that since his inauguration into the 10th Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Nwoko has brought intellect, intensity, and unmistakable presence to national discourse. Representing Delta North Senatorial District, his emergence in the red chambers was driven by the collective conviction of the Anioma people – a people who sought not just representation, but results. Two years on, that conviction has translated into visible leadership, bold advocacy, and deliberate action.
What distinguishes Senator Nwoko is not only the breadth of his interventions, but the clarity of his purpose. He arrived at the Senate with a defined agenda: to drive legislation that reflects the aspirations of Nigerians while ensuring that his constituency receives focused and strategic attention. In a short time, he has positioned himself as a serious-minded legislator – vocal, visionary, and unafraid to challenge the status quo.

His influence within the Senate is underscored by the confidence reposed in him through key appointments. From his role as Deputy Chairman of the Committees on Environment and Sports Development, to his current chairmanship of the Senate Committee on Reparations and Repatriation, Senator Nwoko has proven himself a thoughtful operator – analytical, pragmatic, and deeply engaged. His motion on the need to investigate crude oil theft in the Niger Delta did not just provoke national reflection – it led to the establishment of an ad-hoc committee which he now chairs, reinforcing his reputation as a lawmaker who moves beyond rhetoric to results.

But beyond official titles and committee roles, Senator Nwoko’s approach to governance reflects a deeper philosophy: that public office must serve, and leadership must listen. Whether on the Senate floor or in the remotest parts of Delta North, he remains present – asking the hard questions, pursuing justice, and insisting on equity. His work across legislative and constituency fronts is driven by an unrelenting focus on the people, backed by a sense of duty that has not diminished with time.

As he marks years in office, this documentation provides insight into the depth of his engagement – his sponsored bills and motions, his interventions across sectors, and the values that continue to shape his service. It is a chronicle not of promises made, but of commitments honored.

LEGISLATIVE INTERVENTIONS

At the heart of legislative responsibility lies the duty to make laws that protect citizens, advance national development, and respond to emerging realities. Senator Nwoko has approached this duty with clarity and conviction, sponsoring and co-sponsoring over 30 bills – ranging from the establishment of new institutions to the amendment of existing laws – alongside more than 25 motions addressing critical national issues. His interventions are thoughtful, timely, and people-centered, reflecting a legislative agenda anchored on security, equity, institutional reform, and sustainable growth.

BILLS

Bills Listed and Their Current Legislative Stages
1) A bill for an Act to alter the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Cap. C23, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004, for the creation of Aniocha State and for matters connected therewith. (Passed first and second readings, as well as a successful public hearing held at the zonal level)

2) A bill for an Act to establish the National Agency for Malaria Elimination and for related matters. (Passed first and second readings. Also public hearing completed by the Senate Committee on Tertiary Health)

3) A bill for an Act to alter the Nigeria Data Protection Act, 2023, LFN, to mandate the establishment of physical offices within the territorial boundaries of the Federal Republic of Nigeria by social media platforms, and for related matters. (Passed first and second readings respectively)

4) A bill for an Act to establish the Federal College of Agriculture, Idumuje-Ugboko, Delta State, and for matters related thereto. (Passed third reading)

5) A Bill for an Act to Amend the Federal Road Safety Commission (Establishment) Act, 2007, to Restrict the Daytime Movement of Heavy-Duty Vehicles and for Related Matters. (Passed first reading)

6) A bill for an Act to alter the Federal Colleges of Education Act No. 43, 2023, to establish a Federal College of Education, Akwukwu-Igbo, Delta State, and for related matters.

7) A Bill for an Act to Amend the Orthopedic Hospital Management Board Act, Cap. O10 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004 (as Amended), to Provide for the Establishment of the Orthopedic Hospital, Onicha Ugbo, Delta State, to be Affiliated to the Delta State University Teaching Hospital, and for Related Matters. (Passed first reading)

8) A Bill for An Act to Alter the Federal Universities of Technology Act, Cap.F23, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004, to Provide for the Upgrade of the Federal College of Education (Technical) Asaba to the Federal University of Technology Asaba, and for Related Matters. (Passed third reading after a successful public hearing)

9) A Bill for an Act to Alter the Central Bank of Nigeria Act, 2007, to Provide for the Prohibition of Foreign Currency Payment for Remuneration. (Passed second reading)

10) A Bill For An Act To Establish The National Talent Rehabilitation and Integration Agency, And For Related Matters, 2024. (Passed first reading)

11) A Bill for an Act to Amend the Nigerian Defence Academy Establishment Act for the Establishment of an Additional Nigerian Defence Academy in Kwale and Other Related Matters. (Passed first reading)

12) A bill for an Act to alter the 1999 Constitution (as altered) to provide for diaspora voting and for related matters. (First reading and successful zonal hearing)

13) A Bill for an Act to Alter the Firearms Act (As Altered) To Provide for Self Defense and Personal Firearm Ownership and for Related Matters. (First reading)

14) A bill for an Act to Repeal the Coroners Act CAP C17 laws of the Federal 2004 and Re-Enact the Coroners Systems Act and other Related Matters 2023. (first reading)

15) Bill to Amend Sections 7, 162, and Fourth Schedule of the 1999 Constitution, To Make Provisions for Full Local Government Autonomy and Other Related Matters. (Successful zonal hearing)

16) A Bill For An Act To Establish The National Talent Rehabilitation and Integration Agency, And For Related Matters. (First reading, captured for second)

17) A Bill For an Act to establish an Institute for Leadership, Entrepreneurial, and Corporate Governance, and for matters related thereto, 2025. (Passed first reading) SB.921

18) African Descendants Citizenship Application Bill. (Passed first reading) SB.838

Bills Yet to Appear on the Order Paper
1) A Bill for an Act to Establish the Nigerian Youth Entrepreneurship Grant Program with an Agency for Oversight
2) One-Month Rent Limitation and Landlord Registry Act

3) Electoral Courts Establishment and Jurisdiction Act

4) Compulsory Professional Indemnity Act

5) Cashless Asset Acquisition Act

6) A bill for an Act to Establish laws governing the election of Nigerians into the ECOWAS Parliament

7) The Act Establishing the Parliamentary Governance System

8) A Bill for an Act to make provision for the registration and grant of licence for the use of private security companies in Nigeria, to complement the activities of the military in the defence of the nation’s territory, and for other related purposes.

9) A Bill for an Act to alter the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, to provide for mandatory first aid, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), and automated external defibrillator (AED) training in homes, schools, institutions, and offices, and for the adoption of Good Samaritan laws and matters connected therewith, 2024.

10) A Bill for an Act to alter the Public Service Rules (2021), as altered, to provide for the extension of the retirement age of civil/public servants and for matters connected therewith.

11) A Bill for an Act to establish the National Centre for Substance Abuse Management (NCSAM) in Ndemili, Delta State, Nigeria; aimed at addressing the increasing challenges associated with substance abuse within Nigeria.

12) Mandatory Military Service for Youths (Establishment)

13) A Bill for an Act to Provide for the Establishment, Development, and Management of Ranches in the 774 Local Government Areas and the Federal Capital Territory, to Promote Modern Livestock Farming, Curb Open Grazing, Enhance Food Security, and for Related Matters

14) A Bill for an Act to amend the Immigration Act, 2015 (Act No. 8 of 2015), to allow visa-free entry for African Union passport holders into Nigeria, and for related matters.

15) A Bill for an Act to amend the Nigerian Minerals and Mining Act, 2007, to prohibit foreign ownership of mining licences, promote indigenous participation, and provide for the regularisation of illegal mining sites, and for related matters.

MOTIONS

1) Need to Demand Reparations for Historical Injustices and Mitigation of Neocolonialism in Nigeria, African Nations
This motion calls for Nigeria and other African nations to pursue reparations for transatlantic slavery and address the lingering impacts of neocolonial structures.

In advancing this vision, Senator Nwoko called for a coordinated national response involving key institutions such as the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) and the Ministry of Science and Technology, aimed at redirecting such talents into lawful and productive sectors. His position emphasises the importance of reducing reliance on imports, strengthening indigenous capacity, and fostering homegrown technological development.

As part of his legislative agenda, Senator Nwoko has proposed the conceptual framework for a “National Talent Rehabilitation and Integration Act,” a forward-thinking initiative designed to establish a structured system for identifying, supporting, and integrating skilled individuals from illicit backgrounds into the formal economy. The proposed policy seeks to transform potential security risks into national assets by providing legal pathways, training, and institutional support.

CONSTITUENCY PROJECTS

In his first two years as Senator representing Delta North, Prince Ned Nwoko has demonstrated a clear commitment to the development and wellbeing of his constituents through carefully targeted constituency projects. These initiatives reflect his focus on equitable infrastructure, access to essential services, youth empowerment, and sustainable development. From rural electrification to school renovations, healthcare upgrades to water supply schemes, each intervention is tailored to address specific needs across communities in Anioma, ensuring no local government is left behind.

CONSTITUENCY PROJECTS

1. Construction of blocks of classrooms at Ika Grammar School, Delta North Senatorial District (Ongoing)

2. Construction and renovation of classroom blocks in schools across selected communities in Delta North (Captured)

3. Construction of ICT centres in selected communities in Delta North (Captured)

4. Provision of computers and laptops for students in Delta North (Captured)

5. Renovation and equipping of Idumuje-Ugboko Medical Centre, Delta State (Captured)

6. Renovation and equipping of Ezi Primary Health Care Centre, Delta North (Captured)

7. Supply of drugs to selected primary health care centres in Delta North (Captured)

8. Medical outreach program across the 9 LGAs in Delta North – Phase 1 (Done)

9. Medical outreach program across the 9 LGAs in Delta North – Phase 2 (Completed)

10. Medical outreach program in selected communities in Delta North – Phase 3 (Captured)

11. Training and empowerment of market women in Delta North (Captured)

12. Training and empowerment of youths in Delta North – Phase 3 (Captured)

13. Capacity development training for women in Delta North (Captured)

14. Capacity development training and empowerment program for youths, women, and farmers in Delta North – Phase 3 (Captured)

15. Training and empowerment program for women, youths, and farmers in Delta North – Phase 1 (Done)

16. Training and empowerment program for women, youths, and farmers in Delta North – Phase 2 (Completed)

17. Training and empowerment program for youths and women on cassava farming across Delta North (Completed)

18. Livestock farming and training for youths in Delta North (Completed)

19. Training and empowerment of women on production of Akwa-Ocha inj Delta North (Captured)

20. Procurement of tractors and equipment for farmers across Delta North (Captured)

21. Establishment of fish farms and procurement of fertilizers across Delta North (Captured)

22. Provision of mechanization and extension service systems under the Renewed

23. Hope Agenda in Delta North (OngoingRESTORATION OF ANIOCHA NORTH II STATE CONSTITUENCY

In a significant legislative milestone, Senator Nwoko successfully championed the restoration of the Aniocha North II State Constituency, securing concurrence from both chambers of the National Assembly.
On March 11, 2025, Senator Nwoko sponsored and moved a motion on the floor of the Senate, calling for compliance with the Supreme Court judgment of November 29, 2019, which affirmed the restoration of the constituency and directed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct elections accordingly. The motion was unanimously adopted by the Senate and subsequently transmitted to the House of Representatives for concurrence.

Following this, Hon. Ngozi Okolie, representing Aniocha/Oshimili Federal Constituency, presented the motion before the House of Representatives, which, on May 15, 2025, concurred with the Senate’s resolution—thereby aligning both chambers on the matter.

This development marks the culmination of a prolonged legal and legislative process that began in 2014, when nine communities in Aniocha North Local Government Area—Idumuje-Unor, Idumuje-Ugboko, Nkwu-Nzu, Ugboba, Idumuogo, Ugbodu, Ubulubu, Anioma, and Ogodo—sought judicial intervention for the restoration of their constituency. After an initial dismissal at the Federal High Court, the Court of Appeal, Benin Division, ruled in their favour in 2017. The Supreme Court, in 2019, upheld this decision, making it final and binding.

Despite earlier steps taken by INEC, including stakeholder consultations and submissions to the National Assembly, no legislative action had been concluded until Senator Nwoko’s intervention.

His motion further urged the National Assembly to approve INEC’s proposal, mandated relevant committees to engage with the Commission, and directed the Clerk of the National Assembly to transmit the resolution to INEC for the conduct of elections within 90 days.

With concurrence now secured from both the Senate and the House of Representatives, the pathway has been cleared for implementation.

INTERVENTION IN THE DETENTION AND RELEASE OF KING CLEMENT IKOLO

Senator Ned Munir Nwoko demonstrated decisive leadership and commitment to peacebuilding through his timely intervention in the detention of His Royal Majesty, King Clement Ikolo, the traditional ruler of Ewu Kingdom, following the tragic Okuama incident involving the loss of Nigerian soldiers.
In response to widespread concern among traditional rulers and stakeholders within Delta State, Senator Nwoko formally engaged the Chief of Defence Staff, appealing for a measured and humane approach to the matter. In his communication, he acknowledged the gravity of the incident and extended condolences to the Armed Forces, while strongly advocating for the release of King Ikolo on the grounds of justice, health considerations, and the need to prevent further escalation of tensions within the region.

Senator Nwoko emphasized that the continued detention of the monarch, who had only recently ascended the throne under complex community circumstances, risked deepening unrest and undermining cooperation necessary for ongoing investigations. He further demonstrated personal commitment by offering to stand as surety, underscoring his confidence in the monarch’s respect for due process and dedication to peace.

Following sustained engagement and advocacy, King Clement Ikolo was released, a development widely acknowledged as a critical step toward restoring calm and stability in the affected communities.

INTERVENTION IN ONICHA-OLONA ILLEGAL ARMS FACTORY AND ADVOCACY FOR TALENT REHABILITATION POLICY

Distinguished Senator Ned Munir Nwoko demonstrated proactive leadership in addressing the security and socio-economic implications of the illegal arms factory discovered in Onicha-Olona, Delta State.
Following his engagement with the Headquarters of the 63 Brigade, Asaba, and strategic discussions with the Brigade Commander, Senator Nwoko facilitated a balanced approach that upheld justice while recognising the need for rehabilitation. Through his intervention, four individuals connected to the incident were successfully released, with continued advocacy for fair consideration and due process for others still under detention.

Beyond immediate intervention, Senator Nwoko reframed the incident as a broader policy opportunity—highlighting the need to identify, rehabilitate, and productively engage individuals with technical abilities who have operated outside the law. He specifically drew attention to the innovative capacity observed among those involved, including demonstrated skills in drone construction and mechanical modification.

2) Need for Redress, Healing and Reconciliation for the Grievous 1967 Asaba Massacre
It advocates for national acknowledgment and reconciliation over the Asaba massacre during the civil war, with emphasis on justice and memorialization.

3) Need to Investigate the Incessant and Nefarious Acts of Crude Oil Thefts in the Niger Delta and Its Actors
This motion seeks a deep probe into crude oil theft in the Niger Delta, identifying networks involved and proposing long-term countermeasures.

4) Urgent Need for African Nations to Attain Veto Power at the United Nations Security Council
It presses for reforms that grant African countries veto power at the UN Security Council to reflect global equity and inclusivity.

5) Need for the Establishment of Social Media Platform Offices in Nigeria for Economic Advancement and Efficient Dispute Resolution
The motion encourages global tech companies to set up offices in Nigeria to enhance job creation, tax revenue, and content governance.

6) Urgent Action Needed to Fortify Security, Tackle Surge of Kidnappings in FCT, Following the Tragic Abduction of 19 Individuals in Galadimawa
This addresses the rising insecurity in Abuja, calling for stronger protection strategies and community-based intelligence.

7) Urgent Need to Stop Gas Flaring and Enforce Anti-Gas Flaring Regulations in Ndokwa Land and the Niger Delta Region
It raises concern over environmental degradation and health risks from gas flaring, demanding strict enforcement of environmental laws.

8) Need to Upgrade All Federal Medical Centers in Nigeria to International Standards and for All Public Servants to Seek Medical Treatment Exclusively Within Nigerian Healthcare Facilities
The motion underscores the importance of strengthening public healthcare and reducing foreign medical trips by public officials.

9) Compelling Need to Ban Importation of All Non-essential Goods and Locally Producible Items in Nigeria
It recommends import restrictions on goods that can be produced locally, aimed at reviving domestic industries and conserving foreign exchange.

10) Urgent Need for a National Dialogue with Separatist Groups in Nigeria to Genuinely and Amicably Resolve all Issues
This motion promotes dialogue as a path to addressing separatist agitations and fostering unity through peaceful engagement.

11) Need To Address the Unexplained Delay of Electricity Supply in Ndokwa Land and Step-down of Okpai Independent Power Plant
Highlights concerns about ongoing electricity supply interruptions in Ndokwa Land and calls for urgent attention to the operational status of the Okpai IPP.

12) Urgent Need to Discourage any Military Intervention in Niger Republic by ECOWAS
This motion calls for diplomatic resolution over military actions in Niger Republic, urging ECOWAS to avoid armed intervention.

13) Urgent Need to End Compulsory Police Reports Before Emergency Medical Treatment
Advocates the removal of mandatory police clearance for emergency healthcare to save lives and streamline urgent medical responses.

14) Urgent Action Required to Address the Ongoing Israeli-Palestinian Conflict
Calls for Nigeria’s diplomatic engagement and humanitarian support to help resolve the conflict and mitigate suffering.

15) Compelling Need to Enforce Nationwide Ban on Movement of Heavy-Duty Vehicles in Daytime
Seeks enforcement of restrictions on heavy vehicle movements during the day to reduce road accidents and traffic congestion.

16) Need For Fintech Companies in Nigeria To Ensure Stricter Security Standards Amid Rapid Growth
Emphasizes the importance of robust cybersecurity measures by fintech firms to protect users and maintain trust.

17) Need for Emergency Action to Address Security Threats Posed by Fulani Herdsmen and Miscreants in Delta State
Raises urgent concerns over violent incidents linked to Fulani herdsmen, calling for stronger security responses.

18) Urgent Action Required to End Payment of Salaries in Foreign Currencies for Workers in Nigeria
Advocates the cessation of salary payments in foreign currencies to preserve Nigeria’s monetary sovereignty.

19) Compelling Need to Address the Recent Termination of Over 317 Staff by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN)
Calls for a review of staff terminations to safeguard workers’ rights and institutional stability.

20) Urgent Call for Emergency Provisions for Victims of Flooding in Delta North Communities
Demands immediate relief efforts and long-term flood control measures for affected communities in Delta North.

NSCDC parades 13 suspects for cable vandalism, robbery, trafficking

In a major operational success aimed at protecting Critical National Assets and Infrastructure, CNAI, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, has arrested 13 persons suspected to be involved in cable vandalism, armed robbery, car theft and human trafficking.

The National Public Relations Officer of the Corps, Assistant Commandant Babawale Afolabi, disclosed this during a press parade at the Corps’ National Headquarters, Abuja, and at a crime scene in Yangoji, Kwali Area Council of the FCT.

Afolabi stated that the arrests were executed by operatives of the Commandant General’s Special Intelligence Squad, CG’s SIS, following credible intelligence.

He explained that the coordinated operations spanned seven locations, including the Federal Capital Territory, Nasarawa, Plateau, Kogi, Benue, Niger and Kaduna States.

Among those arrested is one Isaac Zegbe, 25, a former staff of the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company, AEDC, whose arrest is considered a significant breakthrough in the fight against power infrastructure vandalism.

The Corps reiterated its commitment to eradicating all forms of criminality threatening national assets and public safety, adding that further investigations are ongoing.

Authority.

Obi won’t respond to surrogates/aides of other presidential candidates again -Office

The Peter Obi Media Office unequivocally made it clear that Mr Peter Obi, will no longer respond to attacks, insinuations, or provocations from political surrogates whose principals are themselves candidates for the 2027 presidential election but are either incapacitated or lack a record to defend.

A statement in Abuja on Monday from the Office lamented that: “These hired surrogates indulge in all kinds of fabrications to keep their principal’s name afloat, and they get elated when they think they have successfully gotten the candidate’s attention.

“A presidential election is a contest between the individuals whose names will appear on the ballot and who are asking Nigerians to entrust them with leadership of the country, not between candidates and their hired defenders.

“Our candidate, Mr Peter Obi, is a presidential contender. He stands by his words, defends his record, and is prepared to discuss his ideas openly with Nigerians to enable them to make a well-informed choice,” the Office said.

The statement went further to clarify that “those seeking to govern Nigeria should have the same courage.

“We challenge every presidential candidate hiding behind surrogates to step forward and speak for themselves. Defend your record. Explain your policies. Address the concerns Nigerians have. Debate your fellow candidates. Do not send proxies to fight battles you are unwilling or unable to face directly.

“It is politically convenient to employ surrogates to make reckless accusations, distort facts, and throw mud, while the candidate remains safely removed from the fallout. But Nigerians deserve better than remote-controlled presidential politics.

“Mr Peter Obi will not partake in that spectacle. From now on, surrogates are not our constituency of response. Candidates are. If a presidential candidate has an issue with Mr Obi, let that candidate speak directly.

“If there are policy disagreements, let the candidates debate openly. If there is a challenge to Mr Obi’s record, let the challenger present their own record as well.

“No more proxies. No more political ventriloquism. No more responses to individuals who are not on the ballot.”

According to the Office: “The 2027 election will not be decided by the loudest surrogate. It will be decided by Nigerians. And Nigerians deserve to hear directly from those seeking their votes.

“If your name is on the ballot, Peter Obi will engage with you. If you are not on the ballot, Peter Obi has no reason to engage with you. We are committed to the Nigerian people—listening to their suffering, respecting their aspirations, and focusing on the urgent task of rescuing our nation from the failures of leadership.

“The era of responding through surrogates is over. Let the candidates come forward. A New Nigeria is Possible but certainly not with surrogates,” the statement said.

Security operatives kill scores of bandits in Kebbi

Security operatives have killed scores of bandits and recovered arms, ammunition, motorcycles and other items during a joint clearance operation in Gumki Forest, Kangiwa Local Government Area of Kebbi State.

The operation, conducted by the Kebbi State Police Command in collaboration with the military, took place at about 6:05 a.m. on Monday, September 14, 2026.

According to a statement issued to journalists in Birnin Kebbi by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Bashir Usman, Gumki Forest is a known route used by bandits and Lakurawa elements.

He said the joint team engaged and neutralised bandits operating in the area during the operation.

Usman said the operatives recovered one PKT rifle with 174 rounds of live ammunition, one AK-47 rifle with 14 rounds of live ammunition, a pair of military camouflage uniforms, a pair of boots, two mobile phones, charms and four motorcycles.

He added that the area remained relatively calm, while joint operations were ongoing to further clear the forest and rid the state of criminal elements.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Umar M. Hadejia, commended the operatives for their gallantry and dedication to duty.

Hadejia reaffirmed the command’s commitment to sustaining coordinated and intelligence-led operations with other security agencies to counter banditry, terrorism and other forms of criminality in the state.

He also urged members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies.

2027: Don’t use partisan lecturers as Returning Officers, ADC charges INEC

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to review its policy on the appointment of politically exposed academics as Returning and Collation Officers for the 2027 general elections.

The party’s demand followed a newspaper report that more than 600 senior lecturers from public universities across Northern Nigeria had endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for re-election in 2027.

The ADC said the reported endorsement raised questions about electoral credibility and potential conflicts of interest, particularly because university lecturers and vice chancellors have routinely been appointed by INEC to perform sensitive roles in the collation of election results and declaration of winners.

In a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi on Monday, the party acknowledged the constitutional right of lecturers and other Nigerians to support or endorse political candidates of their choice.

However, it argued that academics who had publicly taken partisan positions should not subsequently be appointed to positions requiring neutrality in an election involving the candidate they had endorsed.

The party said the principle was straightforward: “You cannot campaign for a candidate and then be entrusted with counting the votes and declaring winners in the same election that your candidate is contesting in.”

The ADC consequently called on INEC to establish and publish clear criteria for selecting Returning and Collation Officers, including provisions that would exclude academics and other prospective election officials who had publicly endorsed candidates, participated in partisan political activities or demonstrated an obvious political affiliation.

The opposition party also asked the electoral commission to publish the names of proposed Returning and Collation Officers sufficiently ahead of the elections.

According to the ADC, such disclosure would enable political parties, candidates and members of the public to identify potential conflicts of interest and raise legitimate objections before the elections.

The party said the issue was particularly important because the credibility of an election depended not only on the voting process but also on the neutrality and integrity of officials responsible for collating and declaring results.

“The integrity of an election does not begin when the first ballot is cast. It begins with the neutrality of the people entrusted to administer, collate, and declare its outcome,” the party said.

It added that Nigerians should not be placed in a situation where individuals who had publicly chosen a political side were subsequently presented as neutral arbiters in the same electoral contest.

The ADC’s position comes as political parties and other stakeholders intensify preparations for the 2027 general elections, with concerns over the neutrality of electoral officials, transparency and public confidence expected to remain major issues.

While the reported endorsement by the lecturers does not, by itself, establish that any of them will be appointed as Returning or Collation Officers, the ADC said INEC should act proactively to prevent potential conflicts of interest.

The party maintained that clear eligibility and disclosure rules would help strengthen confidence in the electoral process and prevent avoidable disputes over the credibility of results.

It urged INEC to ensure that all officials appointed to sensitive electoral positions are not only professionally qualified but also demonstrably impartial in the contests in which they are required to administer or declare results. Authority.

Peter Obi reels out 10 strong points for his presidency, 10 failures of Tinubu

The Peter Obi Media Office has reacted to what it called “laughable argument of the surrogate campaigners of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu that the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC Presidential flagbearer, Peter Obi, is overhyped, and that his popularity and high rating are overrated.

The Office in a statement on Monday presented, “as a direct response, ten points to back up all the ratings Peter Obi is currently enjoying in the nation’s political space.

“The record that actually prepared him for the Presidency. And ten failures of Tinubu’s presidency that Nigerians cannot ignore.

_Peter Obi managed a state before seeking to manage a nation._

He served as Governor of Anambra State from 2006 to 2014, with interruptions arising from the political and legal battles surrounding his tenure. He eventually won re-election in 2010, completed his second term, and emerged as the best-performing state governor in his time.

_He demonstrated fiscal discipline._

As a public servant, one of the strongest claims in his governance record is that Anambra became one of the least-indebted states while he was governor, and his administration accumulated substantial savings and investments. His 2023 manifesto records approximately $500 million in investments and savings, including $156 million in dollar-denominated bonds.

_He showed that government could save rather than merely spend._

This is perhaps one of the clearest contrasts in his political message: leaving substantial financial reserves behind after leaving office. The record presented in his manifesto includes local and foreign currency savings and investments.

_He made education a central development investment._

His administration returned mission schools to their original owners and established partnerships with them. His manifesto says Anambra subsequently moved from 24th to first position in WAEC/NECO performance for three consecutive years.

_He invested in human capital rather than only physical projects._

The record includes scholarships, support for education, healthcare investments and poverty mapping—an approach consistent with the argument that development is ultimately about improving people’s productive capacity.

_He demonstrated healthcare investment._

His administration’s reported record includes investment in health institutions and accreditation; the 2023 manifesto states that more than 12 health institutions, including two hospitals, had secured accreditation by the end of his tenure, compared with none at the beginning.

_He attracted international development partnerships._

The record includes engagement with organisations such as the World Bank, UNDP, DFID and the European Union, alongside diplomatic engagement with foreign governments. His manifesto also says he was recognised by the Millennium Development Goals Office and UNDP for the implementation of development programmes.

_He used data and planning in governance._

His administration introduced poverty mapping and aerial mapping/planning initiatives, and developed the Anambra Integrated Development Strategy (ANIDS) as a framework for coordinated development.

_He demonstrated experience outside politics._

Before becoming governor, Obi had a career in business and banking, including senior roles in the financial sector. That gives his presidential case a combination of private-sector, financial-management and public-sector experience.

_He left office with a record that could be examined._

That may ultimately be the strongest argument: Nigerians do not have to assess Peter Obi solely from campaign promises. They can examine what he did with Anambra’s resources when he had executive responsibility.

Perhaps the bigger argument and the strongest political formulation is therefore that

Peter Obi is not asking Nigerians to make him President so that he can learn how government works. He is asking Nigerians to entrust him with Nigeria after demonstrating, as Governor of Anambra, how he manages money, builds institutions, invests in human capital and plans for the future.

*Tinubu Presidency: Ten Failures Nigerians Cannot Ignore”*

_Cost-of-living crisis_ — The removal of the petrol subsidy and other economic reforms have been accompanied by a severe rise in the cost of food, transportation and necessities.

_Inflation and declining purchasing power_ — Nigerians have seen their incomes buy substantially less, while wages have struggled to keep pace with prices.

_Naira instability_ — The sharp depreciation of the naira has increased the cost of imported goods, medicines, machinery and industrial inputs.

_Fuel-price shock_ — Petrol prices rose dramatically following subsidy reforms, placing additional pressure on households, businesses and transportation costs.

_Rising poverty and hardship_ — The central criticism is that the immediate burden of economic reforms has fallen disproportionately on ordinary Nigerians.

_Weak employment and economic opportunities_ — Despite repeated government assurances, many young Nigerians continue to face unemployment, underemployment and limited opportunities for productive work.

_Security challenges remain unresolved —_ Banditry, terrorism, kidnapping and communal violence continue to affect parts of the country, raising questions about the effectiveness of the government’s security strategy.

_Public trust and transparency concerns_ — Controversies surrounding government spending, appointments, procurement and the management of public resources have continued to generate questions about transparency and accountability.

_Perception of political rather than institutional governance_ — Critics argue that the administration has sometimes appeared more focused on political consolidation and 2027 calculations than on building strong, independent institutions.

_The gap between promises and lived experience_ — Perhaps the broadest criticism is that the administration’s reform narrative has not yet translated into a sufficiently visible improvement in the daily lives of ordinary Nigerians because of apparent corruption allegations all over the place.

The fundamental question is not whether Tinubu inherited a difficult Nigeria. He did. The question is whether, after taking difficult decisions, Nigerians are better off today—and whether the government has convincingly demonstrated that today’s sacrifice is producing tomorrow’s prosperity. Your answer is an obvious capital NO,” the statement concluded.