More Trouble For Tinubu As Political Adviser, Hakeem Baba-Ahmed Resigns [Daily Trust]

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More Trouble For Tinubu As Political Adviser, Hakeem Baba-Ahmed Resigns [Daily Trust]

Dr Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, the political adviser to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has resigned, Daily Trust reliably learnt.

Impeccable sources in the presidency confirmed yesterday that the former spokesman of the Northern Elders Forum (NEF) tendered his resignation about two weeks ago.

The sources said Dr. Baba-Ahmed did not provide details of the reasons for his decision, only stating that it was on personal grounds. However, as of the time of filing this report, it was unclear whether the presidency had accepted his resignation.

Baba-Ahmed was appointed Special Adviser on Political Matters in the Office of Vice President Kashim Shettima in September 2023.

Over the past 17 months, he has represented the presidency at several public fora, including a recent national conference themed: “Strengthening Nigeria’s Democracy: Pathway to Good Governance and Political Integrity”, which held from 28th to 29th January, 2025 in Abuja.

Clash with Matawalle over NEF

Dr. Baba-Ahmed’s role in the presidency drew criticism at certain points. A notable criticism came from the current Minister of State for Defence, Bello Mohammed Matawalle.

In April 2024, Matawalle appeared to have taken an aim at Dr. Baba-Ahmed, when he said northern appointees must not remain silent in the face of intimidation or misrepresentation of the Tinubu administration.

His remarks came after Baba-Ahmed criticised Matawalle’s dismissal of the Northern Elders Forum (NEF) as a “political paperweight”. That position by the minister was in reaction to the group’s statement that the North had made a mistake voting for Tinubu in 2023.

Baba-Ahmed had argued that the Tinubu administration would have been better served if Matawalle had highlighted his own achievements as a minister—along with those of other northern appointees—rather than attacking the NEF.

“Scathing criticism of NEF by the junior minister of defence, Matawalle, is ill-advised. He could have done a better job for this administration if he identified contributions of especially northern ministers and other appointees like me to improving security and reducing poverty in the North,” Baba-Ahmed wrote.

Matawalle fired back, insisting that government appointees had a duty to defend and promote the administration they served. “Dr Baba-Ahmed’s relationship and affinity with the Northern Elders Forum (NEF) is well known,” Matawalle said, adding that: “As an appointee of this administration, it is his responsibility to work for its success, protect and defend the government against unjust and vicious attacks from those who hide under ethnic and other primordial interests to heat up the polity for myopic reasons”.

The minister stressed further that: “Every appointee of President Tinubu, including Dr. Baba-Ahmed, owes the government a duty to promote, elucidate, and advance its good works and commendable efforts across all sectors.

“As appointees from the North, we must take a stand, be unequivocal, and be counted among those working for the success of this administration. This is not the time to keep quiet in the face of intimidation and misrepresentation of the efforts and achievements of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu”, the junior minister maintained.

Dr Hakeem Baba-Ahmed at a glance

Dr Hakeem Baba-Ahmed (born September 11, 1955) is a Nigerian retired senior civil servant and former Chief of Staff to ex-Senate President, Dr Abubakar Bukola Saraki. He hails from Kaduna State. A practising Muslim, he has held several key positions in public service and governance.

Baba-Ahmed studied at the Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, the London School of Economics, and the University of Sussex in the United Kingdom. He holds a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree.

He began his career as a lecturer at the then University of Sokoto (now Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto) before joining the Kaduna State Civil Service. He later transferred to the Federal Civil Service, where he rose to the rank of Permanent Secretary.

During his career, Baba-Ahmed served as Permanent Secretary in various capacities, including in the Presidency and the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. He also held the position of Secretary to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

A reform-minded public servant, he also served as Secretary to the Kaduna State Government. His contributions to governance earned him the national honour of Officer of the Federal Republic (OFR).

Baba-Ahmed is regarded as an elder statesman in Northern Nigeria. Before his appointment as Special Adviser on Political Matters to the President in the Office of the Vice President, he was the Director of Publicity and Advocacy for the Northern Elders Forum (NEF), where he spoke openly against policies that were perceived to be against the interests of the North, and of the various parts of Nigeria.

Sudan: At least 89 killed in paramilitary attack

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Sudan: At least 89 killed in paramilitary attack

At least 89 have been killed in a cluster of villages in the Sudanese city of Omdurman by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) a Sudanese human rights organization has said.

Many more were injured in the attack that saw the paramilitary group carrying out random artillery shelling and direct gunfire.

The Emergency Lawyer’s Association has accused the RSF of violating “human rights and international law,” the statement added that its forces engaged in widespread looting of homes and shops, arrested several young men from the villages “and forced them at gunpoint to transport the looted goods.”

Many have fled to the Jabal Awlia area, in hopes of finding safety.

Sudan is already in the grips of the largest displacement crisis, to date, an estimated 8.8 million people have been forced from their homes to camps and other locations within Sudan; 3.5 million more have fled across borders, according to the UN.

On the battlefield, the RSF continues to suffer setbacks.

Since the beginning of the year – the army has seized Sennar, Al Jazeera and White Nile state, as well as the capital Khartoum.

The captures have given the military control of the center of Sudan, regaining Darfur appears to be the army’s next target.

No going back on Akpoti-Uduagha’s recall process – Constituents

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No going back on Akpoti-Uduagha’s recall process – Constituents

Some determined constituents of Kogi Central Senatorial District on Thursday vowed never to back down on the recall process of Sen. Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan from the National Assembly.

Rather, they insisted that they would fine-tune the process.

The constituents, in a statement issued on Thursday by Salihu Habib, said there was no going back on their resolve to bring the Kogi senator back home.

They, however, thanked the Independent National Electoral Commission for validating 208,132 (43.86 per cent) signatures in the petition earlier submitted to it for Akpoti-Uduaghan’s recall.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the renewed determination by the concerned constituents was sequel to INEC’s declaration of some defects in the recall petition they had hitherto presented to it.

INEC had, in a statement on its X handle on Thursday said the petition failed to meet the minimum requirement prescribed by the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

The constituents, who are registered voters of Kogi Central, said that they had mobilised more than the 50 per cent plus one threshold of registered voters and submitted their petition with full documentation.

They, however, noted that the validation of 43.86 per cent by INEC was a confirmation that Kogi Central constituents had rejected the senator.

“Apparently, INEC cancelled not less than 35,000 signatures from the administrative signatures collected.

“We will liaise with INEC within the full ambits of the constitution and regulations to demand for transparency in the handling of our petition.

“We have utmost confidence in the commission not to subject the recall process to ambiguity or administrative opacity,” they said.

They expressed gratitude to INEC for proving naysayers, who queried the authenticity of their figures, wrong.

“We thank INEC for making it clear that the bulk of the people of Kogi Central are behind us and that we did not import a crowd like a desperate, embattled lawmaker,” they said.

The petitioners insisted that the recall of Akpoti-Uduaghan “for misconduct and divisiveness” was non-negotiable.

“We are firm in our resolve to restore dignified and collaborative representation to Kogi Central senatorial district. We will no longer indulge someone who will do and say anything just to remain politically relevant.

“The whole of Nigeria watched her deceptive rally last Tuesday where she openly made comments capable of setting, not just Kogi State, but Nigeria ablaze.

“We will pursue all lawful and constitutional means to ensure our voices are heard and respected. After God, power belongs to the people,” they stated.

Labour Party and Obidients: The Unstoppable Coalition Poised for 2027 Victory

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Labour Party and Obidients: The Unstoppable Coalition Poised for 2027 Victory

In a bold assertion that could reshape Nigeria’s political landscape, the head of the Labour Party’s Directorate of International and Diaspora Affairs (DIDA) has proclaimed that the coalition between the Labour Party and the Obidients is the winning combination that must be revitalized for substantive success in the 2027 elections. This declaration came during an exclusive phone interview, amid a backdrop of leadership disputes within the party, which critics argue have been orchestrated by the ruling party to undermine its status as the strongest opposition force.

The Labour Party is currently grappling with internal conflicts, largely fueled by power struggles between factions led by National Chairman Barr Julius Abure and the party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi. However, DIDA, with the backing of the Labour Party USA, has taken proactive measures by establishing a conflict resolution Taskforce aimed at reconciling these key factions. Professor Oparaoji, a prominent figure in this initiative, emphasized the critical need to resolve these disputes to maintain and build on the historic successes achieved during the 2023 elections.

“The goal for 2027 is clear,” Professor Oparaoji stated. “We aim to not only win but also to protect our victory. The current disputes present opportunities for our adversaries to infiltrate and disintegrate the party, frustrating our agenda for social democracy, anti-corruption, job creation, and social welfare—essential elements in heralding a new Nigeria.”

Despite not being in power, the Labour Party, buoyed by the unwavering support of the Obidients and the working class, remains a formidable force that other political parties fear. The coalition has tapped into a wellspring of support from Nigerians across the globe, driven by the engagement efforts of Peter Obi and Barr Abure, which have sparked admiration and envy among rival political factions.

The establishment of the conflict resolution Taskforce by the Labour Party USA chapter, supported by DIDA, aims to address leadership disputes internally, safeguarding the party from the corrupt practices and legal interferences that have plagued Nigerian politics for decades. As the Labour Party navigates these challenges, it is clear that the alliance with the Obidients is viewed as not just beneficial, but essential for achieving electoral success in 2027.

In a political climate rife with discredited transactional politicians and amorphous coalitions, the Labour Party and Obidients coalition stands out as a beacon of hope. With a renewed focus on unity and strategic planning, this coalition is gearing up to reclaim power and implement the transformative agenda that Nigeria desperately needs. The countdown to 2027 has begun, and the Labour Party, alongside its steadfast allies, is ready to make history once again.

Finally, Uzodimma Appoints Acting Chief Judge In Imo State

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Finally, Uzodimma Appoints Acting Chief Judge In Imo State

 

Hon. Justice Theophilus Nnamdi Nzeukwu has been appointed as the new Acting Chief Judge of Imo State.

This was disclosed on Wednesday from the office of the Imo State Public Enlightenment.

Justice Nzeukwu hails from Egwedu-Atta Autonomous Community in Njaba Local Government Area of Imo State, began his journey to the pinnacle of the judiciary with his early education at Central School No. II Atta, and Bishop Shanahan College, Orlu (B.S.C).

He also attended Federal Government College, Kano, before proceeding to the University of Lagos (UNILAG), where he studied law

We further learnt that after graduating from the Nigerian Law School, Victoria Island, Lagos, he completed his National Youth Service (NYSC) at the Ministry of Justice, Etina, Akwa-Ibom State, before commencing legal practice at A.B.C. Iketuonye & Co. (SAN Chambers), Owerri.

Justice Nzeukwu has served as: Chief Magistrate, Imo State Judiciary, Deputy Chief Registrar, High Court of Owerri, Chief Registrar, High Court of Justice, Owerri, and High Court Judge in Owerri, before his latest appointment.

He is a devout Catholic, a Knight of St. Mulumba (KSM), who is married with two sons.

Court Restrains Police, DSS from Arresting Edison Ehie, Fubara’s Chief of Staff

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Court Restrains Police, DSS from Arresting Edison Ehie, Fubara’s Chief of Staff

 

By: Daure David

A Rivers State High Court has issued an injunction restraining the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) and the Department of State Services (DSS) from arresting Edison Ehie, the Chief of Staff to Governor Siminalayi Fubara, pending the determination of a suit filed by Ehie.

The legal action, which was filed by Ehie’s counsel, seeks to prevent any unlawful arrest or detention of the Chief of Staff by the police or DSS. The court ruling, delivered earlier this week, came as a significant relief to Ehie, who has been under intense scrutiny by security agencies in recent weeks.

The injunction, issued by a Justice, was a result of a motion for an interim order sought by Ehie’s legal team. The court directed that the police and DSS must refrain from taking any action to arrest or harass Ehie until the matter is fully heard and determined. The ruling also mandates that the respondents – the police and DSS – appear before the court on a later date to show cause as to why the injunction should not be made permanent.

In a statement following the court ruling, Ehie’s legal team expressed confidence that justice would prevail, emphasizing that the Chief of Staff had been subjected to unwarranted pressure despite his constitutional rights.

“This ruling is a victory for the rule of law,” said one of Ehie’s attorneys. “It is a clear indication that no one is above the law, but at the same time, individuals are entitled to fair treatment and protection from arbitrary actions.”

The arrest threats against Ehie have been linked to ongoing political tensions in Rivers State. Sources indicate that the issues surrounding the arrest are tied to alleged political motivations. However, the specifics of the charges or accusations against Ehie remain unclear at this time.

Governor Siminalayi Fubara, through his spokesperson, has publicly stated his support for Ehie, describing him as a loyal public servant. “The Governor believes in upholding the rule of law and fairness. The attempt to arrest his Chief of Staff is politically motivated and unjustified,” the spokesperson added.

As the legal battle continues, many political observers in Rivers State are closely monitoring the developments, particularly regarding the potential implications for the state’s political climate. It remains to be seen whether the matter will escalate further or if a resolution can be reached in the coming weeks.

The case has also drawn attention to broader concerns over the potential misuse of state power by security agencies, as well as the ongoing tension between federal and state authorities in various regions of Nigeria.

The Rivers State High Court is expected to reconvene in the coming days to hear arguments from both sides before making a final determination on the matter.

Wike Debunks Rumor of Collapse, Vows to Write Condolence Letters to Those Wishing Him Dead

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Wike Debunks Rumor of Collapse, Vows to Write Condolence Letters to Those Wishing Him Dead

 

By: Joy Musa

Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has vehemently denied rumors that he collapsed last Friday and was flown overseas for medical treatment. In a statement issued on Thursday, Wike dismissed the claims as baseless and politically motivated.

The minister, who was inspecting ongoing projects in Abuja, expressed his frustration with the false narrative, stating, “There is no truth to the rumor that I collapsed or was taken abroad for medical attention. I am in perfect health, strong, and continuing my duties as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory.”

Wike emphasized that he had been actively involved in public duties, including attending President Bola Tinubu’s Iftar event on Friday and leading Abuja residents in paying Sallah homage to the president the following day. He further described the allegations as “mere politics” and stated, “These things don’t bother me. We remain focused on our jobs.”

The former governor of Rivers State added that the individuals spreading such rumors would receive condolence letters from him. He remarked, “Human beings are the ones who will collapse if there is any problem with their health. I assure you, I am even healthier than those who are circulating this false information.”

Wike also urged Nigerians to refrain from wishing harm upon others, stating, “We will all die one day, and no one will remain in this world forever.”

On the progress of ongoing projects, Wike expressed optimism about the completion of the International Conference Centre in Abuja, which he expects to be ready for inauguration in May. He also lauded the impressive progress on road projects in the Gishiri area, including the road leading to the Judges’ Quarters in Katampe District.

“I am very impressed with the pace and quality of work. We are focused on delivering these projects to mark the second anniversary of President Tinubu’s administration,” Wike added.

The FCT minister concluded by thanking Nigerians for their concern, but reiterated that the government remains undistracted and committed to its mission of delivering quality infrastructure and services to the people.

Breaking News: Petition for Recall of Kogi Central Senator Fails to Meet Constitutional Requirements

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Breaking News: Petition for Recall of Kogi Central Senator Fails to Meet Constitutional Requirements

By: Daure David

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced that the petition for the recall of the Senator representing the Kogi Central Senatorial District has not met the necessary requirements as stipulated by Section 69(a) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended).

In a statement released on its official media handle, INEC clarified that while the petition was duly submitted, it did not satisfy the constitutional prerequisites required to initiate the recall process. The electoral body did not provide further specifics regarding the exact aspects of the petition that were found lacking.

Section 69(a) of the Constitution outlines the legal grounds for the recall of a sitting Senator, which includes a petition signed by at least one-third of the eligible voters in the Senatorial District. The petition must also be endorsed by the relevant electoral authorities, which INEC assesses thoroughly before proceeding with any recall process.

INEC’s statement indicated that the legal and procedural aspects of the petition fell short, thereby halting any further action on the matter.

This development comes after months of public discourse surrounding the Senator’s performance and calls for his recall. The Senator, who has yet to publicly comment on the issue, continues to represent the Kogi Central Senatorial District, having successfully contested and won his seat in the 2023 general elections.

The decision is expected to have significant political implications in the region, as it comes at a time when political tensions remain high within the state.

INEC has assured the public that it will continue to uphold the integrity of the electoral process and ensure compliance with the nation’s laws regarding elections and recall procedures.

Further details regarding the specifics of the petition’s failure and any potential next steps will be provided by the electoral body in due course.

18 Year Old Girl Killed While Policemen, Motorist Drag Steering In Imo State

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18 Year Old Girl Killed While Policemen, Motorist Drag Steering In Imo State

The Commissioner of Police in Imo state, Aboki Danjuma, has ordered investigation into the killing of 18- year- old Kasarachi Oduoma.

Oduoma was smashed on Thursday at Umuelemai junction, the headquarters of Isiala Mbano Local Government Area of the state while two policemen and motorist were said to be dragging the steering of a red coloured Toyota Camry.

An activist journalist, Chidiebube Okeoma, who is the founder of Stand for Humanity Foundation, who is pushing for justice for the deceased, disclosed that the CP had instructed the homicide section of the State Criminal Investigation Department to do justice in the matter.

Okeoma, informed that he led a member of the family to make a statement at the homicide section of SCID on Thursday on Owerri, following the CP’s other.

Okeoma, said that the girl who was killed for no reasons deserved justice.

Okeoma said ” 18 year old Kasarachi Oduoma deserved justice, even in death. I have led one of her relatives, Ikechukwu Osuji, to make a statement at the homicide section of SCID in Owerri following the CP’s order.

“The girl was bobbling with life and was only learning fashion designing and decoration to better her life and that of her poor family before she was recklessly killed.

“At Stand For Humanity Foundation, we are interested in making sure that the girl and her family and indeed humanity get justice. We believe in the ability of the state state commissioner of Police to ensure justice in this circumstance”.

A petition written by an Owerri based lawyer, Chijioke Onwubuariri, asked the commissioner of Police to ensure that the culprits do not escape justice.

The letter read” we act as solicitors and advocate and by virtue of our position, our service have been engaged and perfected by Mr Ikechukwu Osuji whom we shall henceforth be referred to as our client and on who’s behalf We bring this petition.

“Our client informed us and we verily believed him that a tragic incident in which Miss Oduoma Kasarachi was brutally killed in a hit-and-run accident. On the morning of 27th day of March 2025, at approximately 8:15 Am Oduoma Kasarachi, along with two other individuals, Eberechi Obieje and Agbim Uchechi, were standing at the roadside, preparing to cross to the other side of the road.

“Unfortunately, a red Toyota Camry, which was being driven by a person now at large, accompanied by two police officers from The local division, suddenly collided with Oduoma Kasarachi, causing her death instantly. The driver of the vehicle exited the car, abandoned it, and fled the scene, heading in an unknown direction.

“Meanwhile, the two police officers who were in the car took the vehicle to the police division headquarters at Umuelemai, Isiala Mbano, near the LGA headquarters. The father of the deceased has since deposited her lifeless body in the mortuary within the area.

“We kindly request that you take immediate action through your office to investigate this incident, determine the facts surrounding the occurrence, and bring those responsible to justice.”@@

Allegation Of Fraud: Imo NUJ Reacts To Arrest, Detention Of Correspondents’ Chapel Chairman

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Allegation Of Fraud: Imo NUJ Reacts To Arrest, Detention Of Correspondents’ Chapel Chairman

 

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has expressed no doubt about the alleged involvement of Mr. Chinonso Alozie, Vanguard Newspaper Correspondent and Chairman, Imo Correspondent’s Chapel in the disappearance and sale of a brand new Mercedes Van, donated to the Chapel by the administration of f Sen. Hope Uzodinma barely six months ago.

In a release signed by Imo NUJ Chairman, Comrade Precious Nwadike, he expressed disappointment that Alozie was a dedicated member of the group which sold the NUJ secretariat at Port Harcourt Road, Owerri in disguise as members of the union.

According to him, the NUJ integrity group had overtime publicly condemned and faulted the mischief, criminality and serial misconducts synonymous with Alozie’s Group, but nothing has been done by the government or security agencies, hence the continued courage and audacity to deepen crime by acclaimed journalists.

His words, “We recall with regret that Alozie was a visible member of the group which, parading themselves as members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Imo State Chapter, sold our collective heritage and commonwealth, the magnificent NUJ secretariat strategically located at

“It took the intervention of the Integrity Group of the NUJ to resist and repel that illegal move. Just few months ago, an Owerri High Court ruled that the ‘rogue’ action is null and void.

“The allusion here is that while Alozie had been arrested for this dubious and dirty deal, the security agencies, based on the antecedent of the group Alozie belongs to, which has been shown to have the penchant for illegally selling off whatever belongs to either the NUJ or the Correspondents Chapel, should do well to effectively beam their searchlight on other members of Alozie’s group.

“The point is, we, the Integrity Group of Imo NUJ have been shouting and pointing fingers at this Alozie’s group, warning about their mischief as well as non-professional approaches to issues, but no one cared to listen.

“If the case at hand did not involve selling of a vehicle donated to the Union by the Imo State Government, the Commissioner of Information, Declan Emelumba and other officials of the government, may have been their chief supporters, and would not have been bothered to take such bold step to petition and arrest the suspect.

“For record purposes, we have neither returned Alozie guilty, nor have we said he is innocent. We are only telling the public that his group sold our NUJ secretariat and on several occasions invaded our premises with the support of the immediate former national chairman, Chris Isiguzo.

“This vile attempt to sell off the NUJ secretariat, was a topic in public space for several years, yet, Government said nothing and did nothing to recover the legacy project donated by a former Military Administrator in the state, until the NUJ Integrity Group initiated necessary legal actions.

“As a matter of fact, government functionaries were backing them with Police support and clearly enabled the atrocious act.

“The resilience of the NUJ Integrity group however paid off as the court of law nullified the criminal sale of the secretariat.

“In a nutshell, what Alozie is being accused of today is exactly the same thing we were shouting about while everyone turned a deaf ear.

“If government functionaries had taken a responsible stance on the matter and told the rogue merchants that wanted to sell our union secretariat that the action was unacceptable, Chinonso Alozie may not have summoned the courage to allegedly fling the Mercedes Vehicle donated to the Chapel by Governor Hope Uzodimma, just few months a go.

“Apparently, he expected their backing like they did in the attempted sale of NUJ secretariat, but like they say: “Everyday for the thief, but one day for the owner of the house.

“While we await the final decision of the law/government on this matter, may their co-travellers, who are still waiting for their own opportunity to unleash the beast in them, learn a few lessons from Mr. Chinonso Alozie’s current misadventure”.

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