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Imposing One Party System Will Stifle Nigeria, Lead To Anarchy – Jonathan Warns

 

Former President Dr. Goodluck Jonathan has cautioned that any move to establish a one-party system in Nigeria would choke the nation’s political space and could ultimately trigger chaos and disorder.

He sounded this warning on Wednesday in Abuja while delivering a speech at the memorial lecture and tribute session held in honour of the late South-South leader and former Federal Commissioner for Information, Chief Edwin Clark.

Jonathan acknowledged that while a one-party system might not inherently be harmful, as demonstrated by Julius Nyerere’s leadership in Tanzania, it must emerge through legitimate processes rather than through political manipulation.

“A one-party state may not be an evil thing as Julius Nyerere of Tanzania used it to unite his country because they have many tribes,” he noted.

“However, it was procedural in Tanzania, and not through manipulation.”

He stressed that if Nigeria must consider transitioning to a one-party system, it must be done methodically and deliberately.

“If a one-party state has become desirable for the country, the process must be thorough and systemic, not by accident or political manipulations,” Jonathan said.

His remarks come in the wake of widespread defections from opposition parties including the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the Labour Party (LP), and the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), sparking concerns about political imbalance.

Reflecting on the legacy of the late Chief Clark, Jonathan described him as a father figure and a man of unmatched intellect and courage.

“There is no need to look for any replacement for the late Ijaw leader because that would not be achievable,” he said.

“He was a unique personality, with a very sharp memory that no one can beat.”

Jonathan added, “Clark was courageous and ready to take on anybody at any time.”

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Police Probe Viral Video Showing Traffic Officer’s Altercation With Abuja Driver

 

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has initiated a formal investigation into a viral video that shows a confrontation between a traffic officer and a car owner in the Galadima area of Abuja.

In a statement released on Wednesday by the Command’s spokesperson, SP Josephine Adeh, the officer seen in the video has been identified as Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Attahiru Isah.

“Consequently, the Command has promptly identified and summoned the officer, ASP Attahiru Isah, who was depicted in the footage. Administrative and possible disciplinary procedures have commenced,” Adeh stated.

The Command is also calling on the driver involved in the altercation, as well as any other witnesses, to come forward with verifiable information to support the investigation.

“This is to aid ongoing investigations. Your cooperation is vital to ensuring a thorough and fair process,” she added.

Reaffirming its stance on integrity and proper conduct, the FCT Police Command assured the public of its continued dedication to professionalism and discipline in the force.

Individuals with relevant information concerning the incident are encouraged to reach out to the Command via the contact line: 07038979348.

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I Left PDP To Secure Benefits Attached To My Office – Edo Assembly Speaker

 

The Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Mr. Blessing Agbebaku, has explained his decision to leave the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the All Progressives Congress (APC), citing the need to preserve his position and continue developmental efforts in his constituency.

Agbebaku, along with two fellow lawmakers; Hon. Sunday Fada Eigbiremonlen and Hon. Idaiye Yekini Oisayemoje, formally defected to the APC on Tuesday.

While addressing members of the House on Wednesday, Agbebaku made his reasons clear: “I defected to the APC to retain the benefit of the speaker seat for the development of my constituency.”

He emphasized that his switch was motivated by service, not party loyalty.

“For me, it is not about the party but about the development of our area. As a speaker, if I throw away this position because of the party, the position that would enhance development in my area, it means that I am not ready to serve my people,” he said.

Addressing the assembly formally, he stated: “Distinguished members, I want to formally let this House know that yesterday, the Speaker of this House, Rt. Hon. Blessing Agbebaku, defected to the APC.”

According to him, the move was endorsed by his constituents.

“There is ongoing developmental projects in Owan West constituency initiated by Governor Monday Okpebholo,” he noted.

Agbebaku stressed that his defection was not rooted in personal ambition, but in commitment to his people.

“So, my defection was not driven by personal gains but commitment to the welfare of those who elected him. Politics is all about interest, but not my interest, the interest of my people that gave me the mandate to be here today,” he added.

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APC Chieftain, Seven Others Murdered In Renewed Benue Attacks

 

At least seven individuals, among them a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), lost their lives in separate assaults carried out by armed assailants in two local government areas of Benue State.

According to reports from our correspondent, the attacks took place on Tuesday in the Mbatsada communities of Mbalom and Mbasombo council wards in Gwer East Local Government Area, as well as in Tse Gever Nasemya community of Makurdi LGA.

The APC chieftain, identified by residents as Akaabo Johnson, was reportedly killed along with three others in the Mbasombo ward of Gwer East.

An additional three individuals were killed in the Makurdi incident, bringing the confirmed death toll to seven.

Eyewitnesses said the gunmen stormed Gwer East around 4:35pm, unleashing gunfire without discrimination.

“They laid siege to the communities of Gwer East around 4:35pm shooting indiscriminately,” one witness said, leading to the tragic loss of lives.

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American University To Lay Off Nearly 180 Staff As Trump Revokes $400m Federal Funding

Columbia University has announced plans to lay off close to 180 employees following the revocation of $400 million in federal funding by President Donald Trump.

The decision, which was confirmed on Tuesday, is reportedly linked to the university’s handling of pro-Palestinian student protests related to the war in Gaza.

In a statement, the university said the layoffs affect about 20 percent of staff whose roles were dependent on the now-cancelled federal grants.

“We’ve had to make thoughtful and difficult decisions about how to manage our financial resources,” Columbia stated.

“These choices inevitably affect our most valuable asset, our people. We recognize the hardship this will cause.”

University spokesperson Jessica Murphy declined to say whether additional layoffs could follow but confirmed that leadership is exploring various strategies to strengthen the institution’s financial stability.

These include maintaining current pay levels and offering voluntary retirement options.

To cope with the funding shortfall, Columbia also plans to reduce the scale of its research activities. Some studies will be suspended or downsized while departments seek new funding avenues.

Among the affected research areas are projects involving antiviral nasal sprays for infectious diseases, maternal health, treatment for long COVID, neonatal care for opioid-affected infants, and colorectal cancer screening programs.

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Four Siblings Die From Suspected Food Poisoning In Anambra

 

A wave of grief has swept through Ogidi, a community in Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State, following the sudden deaths of four siblings in what police suspect to be a case of food poisoning.

The heartbreaking incident occurred in the early hours of May 6, 2025.

Authorities say the children died shortly after consuming a meal prepared at home.

Confirming the tragedy, the Anambra State Police Command said officers from the Ogidi Division responded swiftly to the scene.

The lifeless bodies of the children were recovered and have since been deposited in the morgue, where autopsies will be conducted.

Their mother, who reportedly ate the same food, is currently battling for her life at a local hospital. She remains in critical condition and under intensive medical care.

Describing the situation, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Ikenga Tochukwu, said: “This is a deeply saddening incident that has shocked the community. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and wish the mother a swift recovery, as her insights will be crucial in understanding what transpired.”

He further revealed that samples of the suspected meal have been taken for laboratory testing to help determine the exact cause of death.

“In an effort to uncover the truth, police have collected samples of the suspected food for forensic analysis. Officers are actively interviewing residents and potential witnesses to gather additional information that may assist in the ongoing investigation,” Tochukwu added.

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JUST IN: Army Captain Killed As Boko Haram Strikes Borno Community

 

An army captain and a soldier have been confirmed dead following an attack by Boko Haram insurgents in Izge, a community in Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State.

The deadly assault occurred in the early hours of Wednesday, leaving residents shaken as troops responded to the invasion.

According to the Emir of Gwoza, HRH Alhaji Mohammed Shehu Timta, the insurgents launched their attack around 1am, triggering a confrontation with security forces.

“It’s true that my people in Izge community came under Boko Haram attack around 1am. Unfortunately, a Captain and a Soldier paid the supreme price,” the Emir stated.

He noted that despite the loss, security forces—including the military, Civilian Joint Task Force (JTF), hunters, vigilantes, and determined residents, managed to push back the assailants.

“But our gallant troops, the Civilian JTF, hunters, vigilantes and the resilient community members also killed three terrorists. The terrorists abandoned their weapons, over 10 motorcycles and they are still on the run, while being trailed by our security men,” he added.

The Emir offered prayers for the deceased and praised the security forces for their efforts. “May Allah (SWT) grant the departed souls Jannatul firdaus. Our gallant men are still in the bush, sacrificing their lives to maintain peace in the society,” he said.

He also expressed gratitude to Governor Babagana Umara Zulum of Borno State for ongoing logistical support, while urging the federal government to strengthen the military’s capacity.

He said, “I also thank the Borno State governor, Prof Babagana Umara Zulum, for the logistics support to the security operatives,” and called for equipping the forces “with technological warfare.”

This latest attack adds to a recent wave of violence in the North East.

On Saturday, Boko Haram fighters also launched an assault on the 27 Task Force Brigade in Buni Yadi, Gujba LGA of Yobe State, where four soldiers were killed and multiple pieces of equipment destroyed.

The Buni Yadi strike occurred less than 24 hours after the North East Governors Forum met in Damaturu, adopting a multidimensional approach to address regional insecurity.

The Izge assault also follows President Bola Tinubu’s recent directive to service chiefs to put an end to the rising spate of killings across the country.

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Court Plays Video Of Nnamdi Kanu Urging Violence As Trial On Terrorism Charges Continues

The Federal High Court in Abuja resumed the trial of Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), on Wednesday, with the prosecution continuing its case on terrorism-related charges.

Led by Chief Adegboyega Awomolo, SAN, the prosecution presented further evidence against Kanu, including letters, statements, and video recordings allegedly showing the defendant inciting violence.

Representing Kanu was senior advocate Kanu Agabi.

A key witness for the prosecution, identified only by the code name BBB, continued his testimony and was shown a letter dated June 17, 2021.

The document, allegedly from the office of the then-Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, and addressed to the Department of State Services (DSS), detailed allegations of terrorism, murder, and incitement against Kanu.

Reading from the letter, the witness stated that Kanu, through multiple broadcasts, “incited violence by instructing followers to attack police and military officers, seize their weapons, and burn down government institutions.”

The letter claimed these directives were linked to the deaths of security personnel and destruction of public infrastructure.

The prosecution further submitted a written statement allegedly made by Kanu during his DSS interrogation, which was accepted into evidence without objection.

In the document, Kanu declined to elaborate further, saying, “he had said all he wished to say.”

The court then admitted a flash drive containing video clips of Kanu’s alleged broadcasts, alongside a certificate of compliance.

Despite initial objections from the defence, the materials were accepted by the court.

Among the videos played in court was one dated December 12, 2020, in which Kanu declared: “In the blessed land of Biafra, we must do everything to save ourselves from extinction.”

In the same video, he referred to Nigeria as a “zoo” and called for resistance against “northern domination,” accusing political leaders of betrayal.

In another clip, Kanu introduced the Eastern Security Network (ESN), likening it to other regional security outfits such as Amotekun.

He defended its formation as necessary to “defend the South-East from Fulani herders,” adding, “If you are an agent of Fulani, turn your way this evening.”

The court was also shown footage from the EndSARS protests in which Kanu allegedly urged attacks on police personnel and government property.

A video from May 30, 2021, captured Kanu declaring a lockdown in the South-East “in memory of fallen Biafrans” and instructing residents not to leave their homes.

Another clip reportedly showed Kanu urging his supporters to acquire weapons: “procure guns and bullets for self-defence,” specifically in response to threats from Boko Haram and describing Fulani herders as terrorists.

The witness confirmed that the voice in all the video clips belonged to Kanu.

In addition, the court admitted into evidence a Federal Government gazette dated December 20, which formally listed IPOB as a terrorist organisation.

This exhibit, like others, was not contested by the defence.

As the video presentation extended beyond one hour, Awomolo requested an adjournment to continue with the remaining materials.

The defence did not object, and the judge adjourned the proceedings to May 8 for continuation of the trial.

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NANS President Retracts Allegations, Tenders Apology To Seyi Tinubu

 

Seyi Tinubu,

Atiku Abubakar Isah, who identifies as the President of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), has publicly withdrawn his earlier claims against Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

In a statement released on Wednesday, Atiku distanced himself from the allegations he made in a viral video circulating on social media.

In that footage, he had claimed that both Seyi Tinubu and the Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Ayodele Olawande, summoned him to Lagos and offered him N100 million to pledge allegiance to President Tinubu.

He further alleged that his refusal led to his abduction on April 15, 2025.

Atiku had detailed that during his abduction, he was stripped and beaten, alleging the involvement of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) in coercing him into making an “involuntary statement purportedly abdicating my position as NANS President.”

However, in a recent letter posted to his Facebook page, Atiku issued a direct apology to Seyi Tinubu, stating his previous accusations were unfounded.

“It has become imperative to note that the offer of N100,000,000 which was alleged was made to me to support President Tinubu was clearly untrue as Ladoja Olusola, who was desperate to get me out of my legitimate position as the duly elected President of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), fed me the lies and half truths for the sole purpose of achieving his selfish agenda of taking over the reigns of the student body through the back doors,” Atiku wrote.

He also alleged that Ladoja warned him of a possible threat from Seyi Tinubu: “It was also Ladoja Olusola, who warned me that Mr Seyi Tinubu could order my killing and thereafter instruct the Inspector General of Police, Mr Kayode Egbetokun, to bury the matter.”

Additionally, Atiku admitted that his previous assertion, claiming Seyi Tinubu led thugs to disrupt his inauguration, was inaccurate.

He clarified, “I made these claims owing to the picture of Seyi Tinubu painted to me by Ladoja Olusola who swore to me that Seyi was doing everything to ensure I am not alive to serve my tenure as NANS president. Infact, I later found out that Mr Seyi was nowhere near the venue.”

Reacting to the apology, NANS Public Relations Officer, Samson Ajasa, expressed skepticism over Atiku’s reasoning.

He questioned how Atiku could rely on the same individual he accused of trying to usurp his position.

“Of course it is natural for him to shift the blame after realising that his allegation against Seyi Tinubu couldn’t stick.”

“How can you base your claims on an advised allegedly received from the same Ladoja Olusola you formed a NANS faction against? I’m glad the media can now see him for who he is,” Ajasa said.

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Labour Party Crisis Deepens As Nenadi Usman-Led Faction Probes Abure Over Alleged Misconduct

 

The leadership crisis rocking the Labour Party (LP) took a new turn on Wednesday as the caretaker committee led by Senator Nenadi Usman announced a formal probe into allegations of misconduct against Julius Abure, the embattled national chairman of the party.

At a press conference in Abuja, Senator Usman accused Abure of defying his removal and continuing to parade himself as the party’s national chairman.

She alleged that Abure was running the party like a personal business venture.

“Rather than fostering unity,” Usman stated, “Abure allegedly exploited his position for personal enrichment.”

The caretaker committee, chaired by Senator Ireti Kingibe and with Peter Ameh as secretary, has been mandated to investigate accusations against Abure, including corruption, misappropriation of party funds, and anti-party activities, and to recommend disciplinary measures.

Meanwhile, in a swift countermeasure, the Abure-led faction of the party announced the indefinite suspension of prominent members, including Abia State Governor Alex Otti, Senator Ireti Kingibe, Senator Darlington Nwokocha, Victor Afam Ogene, Amobi Ogah, and Seyi Sowunmi.

The suspension was communicated through a statement signed by Alhaji Umar Farouk Ibrahim, the National Secretary of the Abure-led faction.

“By this suspension, these former members of the party will no longer act for and on behalf of the party. All concerned institutions, including the Nigeria Governors Forum, the National Assembly, INEC, and security agencies, among others, are to take note,” the statement read.

The statement also questioned why Senator Nenadi Usman was not among those suspended.

“It will surprise Nigerians and party faithful that the name of one Nenadi Usman was conspicuously omitted from the list of the suspended members of the party.

“First, we have said repeatedly that the said Nenadi Usman was and is not a member of the Labour Party, being not a card-carrying member of the Party.”

“We are aware that she is a member of the Obidient Support group that worked and is still working for the party’s 2023 presidential candidate. We will therefore not honour her with any sanction, as she is not a member of the party.”

The Usman-led committee, on its part, summoned Abure to appear before its disciplinary panel to respond to the various allegations against him.

It also accused him of hijacking party structures and failing to conduct proper ward, local government, state, and zonal congresses in preparation for a national convention.

Senator Usman pledged that her committee would restore internal democracy in the party. She revealed that a timetable for proper congresses and the election of new national executives would soon be announced.

This development comes just days after the Abure-led faction announced its own disciplinary committee, chaired by Ayo Olorunfemi, to probe Governor Otti and others over alleged anti-party activities.

That committee was given two weeks to submit its findings.

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