The Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has been urged to remove the recently appointed Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (rtd), from office. This call was made in a suit filed by a prominent Abuja-based legal practitioner, Mr. Johnmary Jideobi, who is seeking to nullify all actions taken by Ibas in the capacity of Sole Administrator.
The suit, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/572/2025, lists President Bola Tinubu as the 1st defendant, with Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), Vice Admiral Ibas, and the Attorneys-General of all 36 states of Nigeria named as the other defendants. The case, lodged before the court on Tuesday, questions the constitutionality of the President’s authority to suspend elected governors and appoint sole administrators in their place.
Jideobi’s suit requests the court to declare the actions of Vice Admiral Ibas as unconstitutional, arguing that his appointment as the Sole Administrator of Rivers State violates the provisions of the Nigerian Constitution. Specifically, the plaintiff asserts that the constitution does not grant the President the power to suspend duly elected state governors and replace them with appointed officials.
The suit further asks the court to issue an injunction preventing President Tinubu from appointing any Sole Administrator in the future, stating that such actions undermine the democratic process and violate the constitutional rights of elected state officials.
In his application, Jideobi referenced key sections of the 1999 Constitution, including Sections 1, 5(2), 180, 188, 189, 305, and 306, which collectively emphasize the protection of the tenure of elected governors and deputy governors. The plaintiff contends that the only legal grounds for removing or suspending a governor are outlined in these constitutional provisions and do not extend to the President’s unilateral appointment of a Sole Administrator.
Further, the suit seeks the following declarations:
That the suspension of the Governor and Deputy Governor of Rivers State by President Tinubu on March 18, 2025, is unconstitutional and void.
That the appointment of Vice Admiral Ibas as Sole Administrator is similarly unconstitutional and should be set aside.
An order for Vice Admiral Ibas to vacate the Rivers State Government House immediately.
Jideobi, in a 32-paragraph affidavit in support of the suit, expressed concern over the implications of such presidential actions, warning that without judicial intervention, it could set a dangerous precedent, allowing the executive to arbitrarily remove elected officials across the country.
“I have never seen the term ‘Sole Administrator’ used in the amended 1999 Constitution,” Jideobi said in the affidavit. “Such a move undermines the principle of federalism and the separation of powers that are foundational to our democracy.”
He emphasized that the suit was filed in the public interest, to preserve the integrity of the Constitution and protect the democratic process from what he described as actions that could lead to anarchy.
No date has yet been set for the hearing of the case. The outcome of the suit could have significant implications for the future of governance in Nigeria, particularly regarding the powers of the President in relation to elected state officials.
The popular Stanel Dome in Awka, Anambra State capital, was filled to the brim on Saturday as the 4th edition of the prestigious Anambra Man of the Year (AMTY) Award held amid panegyrics and resounding celebrations. The event, which attracted an impressive gathering of eminent personalities, was a day of glamour, honour, and recognition for distinguished individuals who have made significant contributions to the growth and development of Anambra State and beyond.
The event, themed “Gbakọtanụ̀ Ka Anyị Dozie Obodo Dike”, showed the need for collective efforts towards societal advancement. It also served as a clarion call for Ndi Anambra, both at home and in the diaspora, to harness their talents and resources for the greater good of the state. The ceremony was a perfect blend of tradition and modernity, as it featured inspiring speeches, cultural performances, and an atmosphere brimming with appreciation for excellence.
Graced by many dignitaries from various walks of life, the award night was not only a celebration of achievements but also a platform for intellectual discourse on the development of the state. It brought together top government functionaries, captains of industry, academic scholars, cultural icons, and young trailblazers, all of whom shared a common vision of promoting excellence and inspiring the next generation of leaders.
Delivering a keynote address at the event, Prof. Cecilia Amoge Eme of the Faculty of Arts, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, dissected the theme and lauded the organizers for instituting an award that meritoriously honors change-makers. She emphasized that Anambra, as the land of the great, is home to numerous nationally and internationally acclaimed individuals whose contributions to society deserve recognition. According to her, such honors not only acknowledge past achievements but also serve as motivation for others to strive for excellence and contribute meaningfully to societal progress.
While highlighting some prevalent societal ills, including insecurity, corruption, and ritual killings, Prof. Eme commended the efforts of the government in tackling these challenges. However, she stressed that governance alone cannot solve all problems, urging individuals and groups to take proactive roles in fostering positive change. She further advocated for the preservation and promotion of Igbo language and culture, describing language as a crucial element of identity and heritage.
“Let the Igbo language be the language our children acquire from infancy. Our language embodies who we are and all we need for our social and psychological stability,” she advised, drawing applause from the audience.
Also speaking at the event, the Planning Committee Chairman of the 2024 AMTY Awards and Principal Partner & Founder of The Law Zoomers, Barr. Amaka Ezeno, emphasized that the initiative was designed to inspire and recognize the best and brightest among Ndi Anambra. She noted that the awards aim to foster a culture of excellence and reward individuals whose works have had far-reaching impacts on society. According to her, the awardees have demonstrated exceptional commitment to their fields and serve as role models for future generations.
Congratulating the awardees, Barr. Ezeno, who herself was honored as the Most Inspiring Woman of the Year in the 2023 AMTY Awards, urged them to see the honor as both a privilege and a challenge to aspire to even greater heights. She reminded them that the true value of the award lies not only in the recognition but also in the responsibility it places on them to continue making meaningful contributions to society.
Earlier in his address of welcome, the Chairman of the Occasion and Chairman of Hardis and Dromedas Ltd., Dr. Chike Obidigbo, reaffirmed the credibility of the awards, stressing that the selection process was devoid of political bias. He emphasized that the awards were purely merit-based and aimed at recognizing individuals who have distinguished themselves through hard work, innovation, and service to humanity.
Dr. Obidigbo also expressed confidence in the transformative potential of Ndi Anambra, calling on well-meaning individuals to unite in driving the state towards greater heights. He highlighted the importance of visionary leadership, ethical values, and resilience in overcoming challenges and creating a prosperous society.
According to him, Anambra is a land of immense potential, and it is through collective efforts that it can fully harness its resources for sustained development. He further urged the awardees to use their platforms to inspire and mentor younger generations, ensuring the continuity of excellence in Anambra State and beyond.
He also stressed the importance of celebrating homegrown talents, innovations, and success stories, arguing that doing so fosters a culture of meritocracy and hard work. According to him, recognizing and rewarding outstanding individuals helps to build a society where excellence is valued and mediocrity is discouraged.
Beyond the awards, the event featured thrilling cultural performances from various traditional groups, adding a colorful and entertaining dimension to the occasion. The lively performances captivated the audience, reinforcing the rich cultural heritage of the Igbo people and the need to sustain such traditions.
The climax of the event was the presentation of awards to the distinguished honorees, who were drawn from diverse fields such as business, governance, academia, entertainment, and philanthropy.
The awardees and their respective honours included Prof. Joseph Chukwurah Ezigbo (Managing Director, Falcon Corporation) as Man of the Year; Lady Ada Chukwudozie (Chairman, Keystone Bank) as Woman of the Year; Prof. Charles Okechukwu Esimone (former VC, UNIZIK) as Public Servant of the Year; and Prof. Benjamin Ozumba, who received the Lifetime Achievement Award.
Others included Engr. Barth Nwibe (GMD, Segofs Energy Group) as Oil and Gas Person of the Year; AIG Godwin Ndidi Aghaulor, who was also recognized with a Lifetime Achievement Award; Dr. Prince Donatus Okonkwo (Chairman, Tetrazzini Food Plc.), honoured as Iconic Business Leader of the Year; and Ambassador Ajulu Okeke (Nigeria’s First Female Consul-General), who also received a Lifetime Achievement Award.
Other recipients included Chief Ugochukwu Okeke (Member, Board of Trustees, PDP) as Inspiring Political Leader of the Year; Prof. P.N. Okeke (Emeritus Professor of Physics) as Scientist of the Decade; renowned actress Ngozi Ezeonu, who was honoured with both the Lifetime Achievement Award and Best Actress of the Decade; and Dr. Chinwe Odiegwu (Kays Golden Logistics Service Ltd.), recognized as Business Woman of the Year.
The roll call of honorees continued with Chief Dr. Harry Jeffery (Chairman/CEO, Ocean Growth Homes Ltd.) as Real Estate Person of the Year; Barr. (Dr.) Ezechukwuma Richard Chibuikem (CEO, Zoffany Homes and Associates Ltd.) as Entrepreneur of the Year; and Mrs. Dorothy Ukachukwu (Principal, FGGC Abuloma), who was celebrated as the Most Inspiring Woman of the Year.
Further recognitions went to Bridget Edokwe (National Publicity Secretary, NBA, and Publisher of www.barristerng.com) as Media Person of the Year; Chief Hon. Cosmas Ogugua Agagbo (Chairman, Cosco Investment Nig. Ltd.) as Infrastructure Icon of the Year; and High Chief Azubuike Ekweozor as Philanthropist of the Year.
Additional honourees included Theresa Okoli (Provost, Federal College of Education, Umunze); Hon. Ikem Mazeli as Music Icon of the Year; Rev. Fr. Engr. Chetanna Jude Chukwuneke (Founder, Yadi) as Social Impact Investor of the Year; and Dr. Mariette Obianozie Amadi (Founder, 24TeleMed) as Diaspora Person of the Year.
The list also featured young innovators and rising stars such as ACC Onyebuchi Onwuteaka (AC Antivanda and CBRNE NSCDC, Awka) as Rising Star of the Year; Ejike Patrick Nwosu (Founder, Lumos Laboratories) as Anambra Innovator of the Year; and Ifeka Chisom Johnbosco (CEO, Bosco Clothing Company) as Creative Entrepreneur of the Year.
While the awardees took their turns to appreciate the organizers, the event reached a grand conclusion with a renewed sense of inspiration and a collective determination among the attendees to continue making meaningful contributions toward the growth and advancement of Anambra State and beyond.
Former Vice President of Nigeria, H.E. Atiku Abubakar, arrived in Katsina state on Monday to offer his heartfelt condolences to Governor Dikko Radda following the recent passing of his mother, the late Hajiya Safara’u Umaru Barbari.
Atiku, who arrived in the state earlier in the day, expressed his sympathy and support to the governor and his family during this difficult time. Speaking to the press, the former Vice President described the late Hajiya Safara’u as a woman of great dignity, kindness, and wisdom, whose contributions to the community would be remembered.
“I am deeply saddened by the news of the passing of the governor’s mother. My thoughts and prayers are with Governor Radda and his entire family. May Allah grant her eternal peace and provide the family with the strength to bear this great loss,” Atiku said.
Governor Dikko Radda, visibly moved by the visit, thanked Atiku for his kind gesture and expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support from leaders, friends, and well-wishers across the nation.
The late Hajiya Safara’u Umaru Barbari, mother of Governor Radda, passed away on March 22, 2025. She was known for her philanthropic work and was highly regarded in the Katsina community.
The burial ceremony, attended by family members, political figures, and other dignitaries, took place shortly after her passing. Governor Radda and his family are expected to continue receiving visitors offering condolences throughout the week.
The visit of Atiku Abubakar serves as a reminder of the importance of unity and support during times of grief, and his presence in Katsina today highlighted the deep bonds of friendship and solidarity that transcend political lines.
In a significant political development, Mr. Etekamba Udo Umoren, the former Chief of Staff to Senator Godswill Akpabio, has been appointed as the new Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Delta State. His appointment comes at a time of increased political activity within the state.
According to reports, Mr. Umoren was present at the headquarters of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM yesterday, overseeing and facilitating the recall process of Senator Natasha H. Akpoti. The senator’s recall has been a highly anticipated and contentious matter in Nigerian politics, with significant attention being given to the procedural and legal steps involved.
The former Chief of Staff’s appointment as REC is seen as a strategic move by Akpabio, who has directed Mr. Umoren to report to INEC on a daily basis until the completion of the recall process. This move further strengthens Akpabio’s influence within the political landscape of the state, particularly in the context of ongoing electoral proceedings.
The appointment of Mr. Umoren has generated significant interest, and many are closely watching the developments surrounding the recall of Senator Akpoti, as it could have substantial political ramifications for Delta State.
Further details on the unfolding events are expected to be released in the coming days as the situation develops.
Bauchi State Police Command has announced the arrest of two suspects in connection with the death of a 25-year-old motorcycle rider, Dauda Manu.
Contained in a press statement by the Command CSP Ahmed Mohammed Wakil said his body was found with multiple injuries along Dosho Village, near Darazo, on March 5, 2025.
According to the release a team of detectives visited the scene, evacuated the body to the General Hospital Darazo, and later identified the victim as Dauda Manu.
Wakil said “On March 20, 2025, Yau Buba, 25, was arrested in Gombe State with the victim’s motorcycle. Buba Muhammadu, 22, was arrested on March 21, 2025, after Yau Buba revealed he sold him the motorcycle for ₦250,000”,.
The case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department. And the suspects will be charged in court after the investigation is complete.
The police command has reaffirmed its commitment to suppressing criminal activities and protecting life and property across the state.
… Achieve 65% performance in TB case notification, 91.1 % Treatment Success Rate
From Mohammed Nasir Shuaibu BAUCHI
Bauchi State Government said it has made a significant milestone achievement toward recording 9,069 new TB cases detected and registered for treatment in 2024.
Accordingly, about 8,989 were successfully treated thereby achieving a 99.1% Treatment Success Rate (TSR) at the end of 2024.
This was disclosed by the Honourable Commissioner of Health, Dr Sani Muhammad Dambam at an occasion to commemorate the 2025 World TB Day in Bauchi.
Ably represented by the Director Public Health Dr Suleiman Abubakar Ningi, noted that in 2024, the State has detected 13,908 and registered 12,092 drug susceptible TB cases on treatment as against 9,332 in 2023.
He disclosed that significant progress was made interm of TB control both at the state and local government levels with over 800 free TB treatment centres, 131 AFB centres and 18 Gene-Xpert, 12 True at and 9 TB Lamp machines which are the latest machines that is use in the diagnosis of both the drug sensitive TB bacteria and Drug-resistant strain of the bacteria that course Multi-drug resistant (MDR-TB) form of TB.
He further disclosed that all the 20 LGAs in Bauchi state have at least one of the latest machines for Molecular Diagnosis of TB. Adding that 40 new motorcycles were procured and distributed to 20 LGAs to enable TBL supervisors, assistants to monitor the implementation of TB activities in their respective LGAs.
The Commissioner, however said the ministry has outline series of activities this year aimed at increasing awareness and active TB case search which includes: TB Radio program, official flagging-off ceremony of the 2025 World TB Day, combine free testing for TB, HIV and Malaria, Targeted Community outreach activities to create awareness, active TB case finding in all the 20 LGAs respectively.
Earlier in his speech, the Executive Chairman, BACATMA Abdullahi Gida, said for us we are not celebrating but an interaction to find a lasting solution to this militating disease.
We’ve an increases cases in Bauchi State especially Darazo with resurgence cases of over 50 positive test and more cases in other local government in the state.
He assured that before the next year TB day the state would end the persistent TB cases in the affected communities.
He thanked the supporting partners for this unwavering assistance towards fighting and reducing the rate cases of TB in the state.
He inform the gathering that the state government had made an emergency plan effort to cushion the effect being created by cut up relief fund from the USAID with a view to compliment in that regard.
In his remarks, the traditional leader, Abdullahi Yakubu Marafan Bauchi assured the support of the traditional rulers and pledged support towards dessimination of the message would be pass across Dawn to the grassroots levels.
The theme of this year 2025 World TB Day was tagged with “Yes! and slogan” We Can End TB” commit, invest and deliver”.
The Electricity Substation at the Muhammadu Buhari Industrial park, Dadinkowa, Gombe is now nearing full completion, with the erection of the 132 KV Bay Extensions Gantry Towers, beams, and other equipment successfully completed.
The remaining tasks include the interconnection and earthing works, which are expected to be finalized soon.
The completion of the power infrastructure is a key milestone in the development of the industrial park.
Gombe State Industrial Park Power Project Close Completion
With this development, the park is set to offer a reliable, stable, and independent power supply, eliminating major barriers to industrial growth. This, as envisioned by Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, will boost productivity and make the park an irresistible destination for investors by ensuring that businesses are not held back by the frequent power outages that have long plagued industrial sectors in Nigeria.
Governor Inuwa Yahaya established the Muhammadu Buhari Industrial Park to serve as a robust industrial hub that will promote economic growth, attract both local and foreign investments, and create job opportunities for the people of Gombe State and the northeast subregion.
The Park is expected to host a wide range of industries, including manufacturing, agro-processing, and light industrial ventures. It is expected to serve as a catalyst for regional economic growth by creating thousands of direct and indirect jobs, stimulating local economies, and solidifying the position of Gombe State as a hub for industrial development in the north east, and best destination for business in Nigeria.
In a press statement signed by Ismaila Uba Misilli, Director-General (Press Affairs)
Government House
Gombe.
A former Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Bauchi State Alhaji Garba Mohammed Noma has expressed confidence that he is ready to support any gubernatorial candidate produced by the PDP in 2027 so that the party will remain in Power.
Umar said the party will not only take its rightful place, but take over power from the APC-led government which she said has under-performed.
Garba Noma , who spoke to journalists, said that Bauchi People still rely on the PDP to reposition the state more for the better.
He shed more light his recent comment that the next Bauchi Governor shall comes from Bauchi LGA.
Garba Noma said ” what happened someone commented that the next Governor of Bauchi will come from Bauchi local Government, he said i answered with prayer may Allah give us, this is a wishful prayer and ” i want to make it clear that i will support anybody from any local government that will emerge as PDP Gubernatorial candidate in 2027″
He expressed optimist that right and acceptable candidate will emerge peacefullyfor the party’s success come 2027.
Garba Noma called for unity peace and collaboration for the success of the party and the candidates.
He assured that PDP will retain power in 2027 for good vision and development of the state
The Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 Northern states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, Rev. John Joseph Hayab, has urged religious bodies to unite in condemning the violation of religious rights across the country.
He stated, “Religious rights violations affect both Christians and others. If we genuinely want to fight against such injustices, we must do so collectively in the interest of all believers.”
Rev. Hayab emphasized that no individual, regardless of their faith, should be denied their rights. He stressed the importance of respecting religious freedoms, allowing every citizen to move freely and engage in legitimate business activities for personal and national development.
Speaking in Kaduna on Monday during a congratulatory visit by Christian journalists following his recent election as Northern CAN Chairman, Hayab reiterated, “Religious bodies must stand against the violation of others’ rights.”
He expressed concern over increasing instances of religious intolerance, warning that such actions place Nigeria among countries of concern regarding religious freedom.
According to him, religious organizations should collectively urge the government to prosecute individuals who violate others’ rights based on religious differences.
“If the government starts enforcing the law against such violations, people will understand that religious discrimination is unacceptable,” he said.
” Enforcing these laws will help create an equitable society where all citizens are treated fairly.
He also thanked the Christian journalists for their support, assuring them that the new CAN leadership would ensure that Christian voices are heard and protected.
He acknowledged the backing of Christian youths, women, church leaders, and the entire Christian community in Northern Nigeria.
Reflecting on the recent CAN elections, Hayab admitted that there were challenges but was pleased that the Northern CAN constituency united in support of the elected leadership.
He affirmed his commitment to fostering understanding and harmony, stating, “My doors are always open to diverse opinions, and I am dedicated to working together to promote peaceful coexistence for the development of Northern Nigeria and the country as a whole.”
Worried by the scores of criminal activities within the boundaries of Anambra and Enugu states the two Police Commands have commenced joint interstate border operations in the areas .
Recall that there have been several reported cases of interstate and transborder operations of kidnappers and gunmen in recent time which has given rise to the need for the joint operations.
The meeting which was held at the Anambra Police Command Awka which had in attendance Deputy and Assistant Police Commissioners from both states made far reaching arrangements to biff up operations at major security flash points in the areas.
According to the release by the Anambra Police Public Relations Officer SP Tochikwu Ikenga it said.
I”n line with the enhanced policing guidelines of the Inspector-General of Police, the Anambra State Command’s Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, fwc, mnips, Ph.D. and his Enugu State counterpart, CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa, psc, met on March 24, 2025, to devise operational strategies aimed at proactively policing the two neighbouring States”.
“The Commissioners identified the infiltration of criminals between the neighbouring States as a major security challenge requiring urgent intervention to address violent crimes and the activities of subversive criminal elements”
“As a result, they pledged to collaborate, share intelligence, and pool operational resources to combat violent crimes at the borders and within their respective states”
“The Commissioners reiterated their commitment to decisively combat all forms of crime and criminality in both States, with the aim of ensuring maximum public security and safety”
” They also warned criminals operating in the two states to either repent or be ready to face the full weight of the law”he said.
