Ongoing Construction of Bridge Linking Rural Communities in Alkaleri LGA Under Governor Bala Mohammed’s Visionary Leadership

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By: Daure David

The ongoing construction of a vital bridge linking Didinma to Gar, Fanti, Mainamaji, Nasara, Maccido, Sangar, Gale, and Kuka down to Pali under Duguri District in Alkaleri Local Government Area (LGA) of Bauchi State is set to revolutionize transportation and economic opportunities in the region.

Governor Bala Mohammed’s administration has prioritized infrastructural development, particularly focusing on rural communities. This bridge project, part of the Governor’s Rural Local Communities Infrastructure Development Blueprint, is a testament to the administration’s commitment to enhancing access to vital services and fostering sustainable growth in these areas.

The bridge will connect several underserved communities, ensuring easier and safer travel for thousands of residents and movement of Farm Produce. This connectivity is expected to facilitate trade, reduce travel time, and improve the overall quality of life for those living in these rural areas, opening up new opportunities for economic development, education, and healthcare.

Governor Bala Mohammed’s administration has consistently emphasized the need to bridge the gap between urban and rural areas by investing in infrastructure. This bridge is just one of many ongoing projects aimed at improving accessibility and providing rural communities with the infrastructure they need to thrive.

The construction of the bridge is expected to be completed in phases, with significant progress already made in the initial stages. The project is part of a broader plan by the state government to transform rural communities, making them more accessible and integrated into the state’s economic fabric.

Local leaders and community members have expressed their support and excitement for the project, with many praising the Governor’s leadership in prioritizing the needs of rural communities.

“This bridge is a lifeline for us,” said a community leader in Gar. “It will not only help us travel more efficiently but also improve access to markets, healthcare facilities, and schools. We are grateful to Governor Bala Mohammed for this visionary initiative.”

As the project progresses, it is expected to provide significant relief to the rural communities, enhance local businesses, and improve overall living standards in the Alkaleri LGA.

Governor Bala Mohammed’s infrastructure development blueprint continues to transform the rural landscape of Bauchi State, marking a new era of growth and development.

Toro LGA Distributes Ramadan Palliatives, Sallah Clothing, and Launches New Initiatives for Community Welfare

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By: Daure David

In a significant display of leadership and commitment to community welfare, Hon. Ibrahim Dembo Abubukar, the Executive Chairman of Toro Local Government Area (LGA), flagged off the distribution of Ramadan palliatives across all wards within the LGA. The initiative, which aims to alleviate the hardships of the community, was accompanied by the distribution of Sallah clothing to District Heads, Ward Heads, Local Government Executives, and several other notable individuals.

This gesture, which directly supports local leadership and key stakeholders, follows an earlier distribution of Ramadan and Sallah packages to the youth of Toro LGA. The packages were carefully designed to provide the much-needed support during the holy month of Ramadan and the Sallah celebrations.

In a continued effort to reach as many people as possible, the following day, Hon. Ibrahim Dembo Abubukar was represented by his Council Secretary and Council Speaker to distribute the second batch of palliatives to various unions within the LGA, including the Student Union. The recipients of the aid expressed their deep gratitude, with many acknowledging that it was the first time such an initiative had been extended to them, highlighting the inclusivity and community spirit of the administration.

In his message, Hon. Ibrahim Dembo Abubukar reaffirmed the commitment of the Toro LGA government to follow the exemplary leadership of His Excellency, Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, in the quest to improve the lives of the people. He extended heartfelt thanks to His Excellency for his unwavering support and generosity, noting that future generations would always remember his good deeds.

Looking ahead, Hon. Abubukar expressed excitement over the upcoming launch of the Irrigate Nigeria project, which promises to revolutionize food production within the LGA. This initiative will not only enhance agricultural output but also provide job opportunities for local youth and stimulate economic growth within the region.

The administration of Toro LGA has made it a priority to create an enabling environment for youth and women to become self-reliant in the near future, with programs that empower them in various sectors.

As Ramadan draws to a close, Hon. Ibrahim Dembo Abubukar called for the continued prayers and support of the community as his administration strives to lead with integrity, fairness, and a vision for a brighter future.

“Ramadan Kareem to all!” he concluded in his message to the people.

The Toro LGA’s recent initiatives have garnered praise from community leaders and residents alike, marking a significant step forward in the development of the area.

Citizens’ Solution Network Calls for Commission of Inquiry into Alleged Voting Controversy in National Assembly

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By: Daure David

The Citizens’ Solution Network (CSN) has issued a press statement calling for a Commission of Inquiry to investigate the controversial claims surrounding the recent voting process in the Nigerian National Assembly. The organization seeks to address growing doubts and suspicions regarding the legitimacy of the votes cast in both the lower and upper chambers.

According to the CSN, millions of Nigerians from across the country have expressed concerns about whether the individuals who participated in the alleged voice voting were indeed current, duly elected members of the National Assembly or if unknown individuals were brought in to manipulate the process. The CSN is calling for a thorough investigation into the identities of the individuals present during the voting and their true affiliation with the legislative bodies.

The Commission, as outlined in the CSN’s statement, will consist of prominent civil rights activists, journalists, constitutional lawyers, student leaders, trade unionists, and forensic scientists. Its primary mandate will be to conduct a first-hand inquiry into the authenticity of the voting process and investigate the conditions leading up to the vote. Key questions surrounding potential bribery before, during, or after the vote will also be explored.

In addition, the Commission will examine whether the voice voting process adhered to the provisions of the Nigerian Constitution, specifically the 1999 Constitution as amended. CSN has expressed concern over whether the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the Senate President followed constitutional protocols during the plenary session in which the vote took place.

Furthermore, the CSN will probe the actions of President Bola A. Tinubu, particularly his declaration of a state of emergency and the deployment of troops towards the River State Government House before the National Assembly had a chance to deliberate on the matter. The CSN is questioning whether the president’s actions were in line with constitutional requirements or if they constituted a breach of the law.

The outcomes of the Commission’s investigation, according to CSN, will have significant implications for the country’s political future. The findings could potentially affect citizens’ rights and their ability to hold government authorities accountable for any violations of the Constitution.

In a call for public participation, the Citizens’ Solution Network has urged notable figures from the civil rights, journalism, legal, student, trade union, and forensic fields to submit their names and contact details via WhatsApp at 08067212340 for consideration in the formation of the Commission.

CSN has stressed that this initiative is independent of any governmental influence and is solely driven by citizens’ concerns for the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic processes.

For more information, contact: Richard Inoyo
Country Director, Citizens’ Solution Network
Citizens’ Population Council and Panel of Elderly Citizens

Goodluck Jonathan Condemns President Tinubu’s Actions in Rivers State, Calls It Abuse of Power

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By: Daure David

The Former President Goodluck Jonathan has strongly condemned the actions of President Bola Tinubu in Rivers State, labeling them a “clear abuse of power.” Jonathan made this remark at the 2025 Annual Colloquium on Promoting Social Change and Development, where he addressed various issues affecting Nigeria’s political landscape.

In his speech, Jonathan emphasized the need for Nigerians to remain vigilant and actively push for the right course of action in governance. He stressed that the country’s progress depends on the collective will of its people to uphold democratic values and accountability.

“Leadership is about serving the people with integrity, not using power for personal or political gain. The current actions in Rivers State are a clear abuse of power and a deviation from the principles that should guide our democracy,” Jonathan said.

The former president did not provide specific details about the alleged actions in Rivers State but reiterated the importance of transparency, good governance, and public trust in the nation’s leadership.

Jonathan’s comments come at a time of heightened political tensions in Rivers State, where the relationship between the state government and the federal government has been strained in recent months. The former president called on Nigerians to insist on doing the right thing and to hold their leaders accountable.

“The people of Nigeria must not allow any government to undermine the rights and freedoms that we have fought so hard to secure. We must demand that our leaders act in the best interest of the country,” Jonathan added.

His remarks are expected to spark further debate and reflection on the state of Nigeria’s democracy and the actions of the current administration.

As Nigeria continues to navigate its political challenges, Jonathan’s call for responsible leadership and citizens’ engagement in holding government accountable is a timely reminder of the importance of social change and development.

Imo 2027: Uzodimma’s Commissioner, Itherey Accuse Owerri Zone Of Conspiring With Rochas Okorocha To Scuttle Charter Of Equity

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The Orlu political and Consultative Assembly,OPOCA has stated that it does not see the rational in the claim by Owerri zone that they should produce the next governor of Imo State by 2027.OPOCA accused Leaders of Owerri zone of ganging up with former governor of Imo State,Senator Rochas Okorocha of frustrating the well thought of Charter of Equity that existed before 2011 for selfish reason.

OPOCA in a release with caption,”Willie Amadi Has Crossed the Red Line”, signed by Chief Barr Rex C. Anunobi (Sokom) as National President & Supreme Leader, who is also a Commissioner in Governor Uzodimma’s administration.

OPOCA High Command & Conclave,the group stated that they are disturbed by actions of some Owerri people in heating of the polity in Imo State.

The release reads,”In spite of OPOCA’s repeated warnings to certain characters to refrain from heating up the polity in Imo State in the name of Charter of Equity, we are disturbed that some charlatans are prepared to employ the dangerous tools of emotional abuse, cheap blackmail and subterfuge to derail the good works being done by His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Imo State, Dr Hope Uzodimma all in the name of delusional* *appropriation of their rights to produce the next governor of the state.*

“It is not up to two weeks that the governor received a faction of Owerri stakeholders in government House. Two takeaways from the visit. His Excellency told them to go home and unite. He also reminded them that he is still the governor up to 2027, meaning that he should not be distracted by the current political* *bickerings.*

“Unfortunately, Chief Willie Amadi, the serial name dropper and known political jobber, who could not handle the office of a special adviser as a result of wrong choices in lifestyle, has chosen to ignore that wise* *counsel.*

“While we acknowledge that he has the right to be the spokesman for the Owerri Harmony Group, a splinter faction of Owerri zone, he started to overreach himself by hurling personal insults on the Chief Executive of Imo State, Dr Hope Uzodimma, CON.*

“In the last couple of months, Willie Amadi has been hopping from one radio station in Owerri to another hallucinating that it is the turn of Owerri to produce the next* *governor of the state.*

“In making that false claim, he has failed to tell Imo people that there was no governorship election conducted in the state since 1999, that an Owerri man did not contest. Even in 2023, when the Imo Elders Council made a passionate appeal to all the zones not to run against Senator Hope Uzodimma, they still did. Anytime he opens his wide mouth to trumpet this lie, he makes a total fool and mockery of himself. It is a pity that of all the decent, educated, and* *cosmopolitan indigenous Owerri people, a man who has confesed to being a chronic drunkard and* *womaniser is chosen to be their image maker. What a tragedy!*

“While we may not go into details for now to recall how Owerri zone conspired with Rochas Okorocha to truncate and frustrate the Imo Charter of Equity, suffice it to say that those who live in a glass house should not dare to throw stones. If Owerri zone had supported Chief Ikedi Ohakim to complete his second tenure, an Owerri man would have long been the governor of the state.*

“From what is happening now and the character brought forward to market their ambition, we are already seeing a still birth. Owerri zone needs a change in strategy and human resources to drive this project as it can never be achieved through baseless claims by unserious and myopic characters held down by inferiority complex.*

*Finally, by denigrating the person of His Excellency in the cynical and satirical publication of praising him for a job well done as the governor of Imo State, Willie Amadi has crossed the line. We already know that he is mad. But this time, we shall all run mad and follow him to the market square for a naked dance. This should serve as a last warning to Willie Amadi. We shall never suffer him to insult the person and office of the governor of Imo State”.

Yearly Sallah Durbar Festival Postponed In Bauchi

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From Mohammed Nasir Shuaibu BAUCHI

The Bauchi State Government has announced the postponement of the 2025 Sallah Durbar Festival, a significant cultural event in the state.

In a press release by Special Adviser on Media and Publicity Comrade Muktar Gidado said the decision was made by the Bauchi Emirate Council’s Committee on Sallah Durbar without prior consultation with the state government.

The Sallah Durbar festival is a cherished tradition in Bauchi, showcasing the state’s rich cultural heritage and unity. It attracts visitors and tourists from across Nigeria and beyond, contributing to the state’s social and economic vibrancy.

Despite the last-minute postponement, the Bauchi State Government has expressed its commitment to working with the Emirate Council to preserve the state’s customs.

The government regrets any inconvenience caused and will take steps to prevent such abrupt changes in the future.

The Durbar festival is a significant event in Northern Nigeria, celebrated by various emirates, including Kano, Katsina, and Bauchi.

The celebration also features a colorful display of horses, music, and traditional dances, showcasing the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Some of the Bauchi residents, Izzuddeen Saleh and Auwal Captain, have expressed their disappointment and concern over the postponement of the Sallah Durbar Festival.

According to them, the Durbar is the highlight of the Sallah celebrations in the state metropolis, and without it, the festivities will feel empty.

They further emphasized that the Sallah Durbar is a unifying event that brings together indigenous people of the state, many of whom return home specifically for the celebration. With the postponement, they fear that the usual vibrancy and reunions will be absent, leaving everything feeling stagnant.

NAFDAC destroys 100 trailer loads of fake, substandard, expired drugs worth N1 trillion

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By Chuks Eke

The National Agency for Food Drug Administration and Control, NAFDAC has restated its zero tolerance to the circulation of fake, counterfeit, unregistered and expired drugs and other pharmaceutical products in the country.

Director-General of NAFDAC, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye who disclosed on Friday at Anambra State Waste Management Authority, ASWAMA dump site at Agu-Awka, Awka, the Anambra State capital while setting ablaze about 100 trailer loads of unregistered and unwholesome drugs and pharmaceutical products estimated at N1 trillion, said the efforts to stamp out unwarranted drugs from our markets would be sustained.

Represented by the South East Zonal Director of NAFDAC, Dr. Martins Iluyomade, Adeyeye, stated that the affected products included, Analgin, controlled substances such as Tramadol 225mg, amongst others.

Adeyeye furtger stated that the fake, substandard, unregistered, and expired drugs were confiscated from Onitsha Bridge Head Drug Market (Ogbo- Ogwu) and Ekumi/Tenant Road drug market in Aba, Abia state.

Addressing journalists shortly before the destruction of the items, the NAFDAC boss reiterated the commitment of NAFDAC to ensuring that food, drugs, cosmetics, medical devices, chemicals, packaged water and drinks are safe, wholesome and effective for human consumption.

She said, “Today, we are destroying the fake, counterfeit and illicit drugs that were seized during our one month enforcement exercise. The products that were classified as illicit, expired, and banned were confiscated during a raid on Onitsha Bridge Head Drug Market (Ogbu- Ogu) and Ekumi/ Tenant Road drug market in Aba.

“The recent discovery of counterfeit and other products in these major markets in the country is mind-boggling. The discoveries made of the presence of unregistered products, banned products such as Analgin, and Controlled substances such as Tramadol 225mg amongst others, which are part of the things making our country unsafe in terms of security.

“We, as an agency have come to realise that the time has come to put an end to the circulation of substandard medicines in Nigeria. Different calls, different cries have been made and we have listened to those cries and rejig our ways and assured Nigerians that they can go to bed that whatever medicines that are now in the system are safe and fit for consumption.

“The enforcement exercise took us about a month from February 10 to March 5 and we want to say it is a continuous exercise. The current management of NAFDAC has an unrenegable commitment to ensure that these fake drugs are stamped out. It is a bit complex even though we have said that medicines have been certified but still people get them in.

“Bulk volumes of narcotics and other medicines that are not approved because of their effect were confiscated. The volume that we found during this exercise is more than enough to destabilise a country, by research, there is a correlation between them and insecurity.

“The volume is huge and humongous and it is one of the highest in the world. From Onitsha and Aba, the total volume of trucks of fake drugs that have been moved out of these markets are over a 100 40ft containers. And it is over a trillion naira, the estimated value of products that are being destroyed today. Millions of people have been saved by this action alone.

“We assure all Nigerians that the medicines that are now available in the market are authentic and efficacious and we urge Nigerians that when they see something, they should say something.”

The NAFDAC boss, however, commended the media for its role in propagating the fight against fake drugs in the country, calling for every individual to lend their voice against fake drugs.

The Managing Director, Anambra State Waste Management Authority, Mike Ozoemanam, who represented the governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, commended NAFDAC for sanitising the market of fake and illicit drugs.

He said, “The governor visited the market during the enforcement exercise. He did not come there to play politics, but to support the agency. The governor took the bull by the horns because we saw the correlation between the fake drugs and the effect on our youths and you can see that the state is now quiet.

“Anambra people are good people and peace loving people and we urge NAFDAC not to relent in their fight against fake and illicit drugs Whether banned or contaminated, we do not want it in Anambra State.”

Take urgent step to stop armed herdsmen from further invasion of Ndiagu Ehamufu, rights lawyer tells Enugu Govt

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By Chuks Eke

Human rights lawyer, Sir Ifeanyi Ejiofor Esq. KSCchas called on Enugu state government to take an urgent and decisive action towards stopping the dreaded armed herdsmen from further invasion and shedding the blood of innocent farmers and indigenes of Ndiagu Amofia Umuhu autonomous community, Eha-Amufu in Isi-Uzor Local Government Area of Enugu state.

He lamented that the persistent and unchecked attacks by the vicious armed herdsmen across the Southeast – particularly in Enugu and parts of Ebonyi ststes have reached an alarming level and too inexplicable that despite repeated assaults on the various communities, the government’s responses remained inadequate.

Ejiofor, leading counsel to the Indigenous People of Biafra, IPoB to spoke to newsmen in Onitsha, Anambra state, further lamented that recent investigative report by Sahara Reporters exposed the horrifying reality: on February 28, 2025 when armed herdsmen launched a deadly attack on Ndiagu Amofia, Umuhu Autonomous Community in Eha-Amufuwhich left many dead and scores injured.

According to Ejiofor, “In the aftermath, they seized control of the community, burning homes and displacing thousands of residents”.

“This is nothing short of a bloody invasion, and it must not be tolerated. The Enugu State Government, under Governor Peter Mba, must act decisively now. Every available security apparatus must be deployed to reclaim Ndiagu and restore peace. Will the government stand by until this entire community is annihilated? The time for half-measures and delayed responses is over—bold, immediate action is required”.

“Furthermore, the displaced residents must be assured of their safety and given the means to return to their ancestral homes without fear of further attacks. No citizen should be left at the mercy of ruthless killers while those in power look the other way”.

“It is deeply concerning that these reoccurring mass slaughter and displacement of innocent citizens continue largely unchallenged. The silence and inaction of the government in the face of these atrocities is unacceptable. Paying lip service while people suffer and die is a betrayal of leadership”.

“I have consistently emphasized that the primary duty of any government is to protect lives and properties. Yet, today, Ndiagu lies in ruins, its people made refugees in their own land. This failure to provide adequate security for the citizens against these murderous herdsmen, is glaring and indefensible”.

“Now is the time for action. The bloodshed must end. Enough is enough!”

Breaking News: Supreme Court Didn’t Declare Anyanwu National Secretary – PDP

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By: Daure David

The Supreme Court of Nigeria has clarified that it did not declare Chief Charles Anyanwu as the National Secretary of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), contrary to reports circulating on various media platforms.

In a statement released today, the PDP refuted the claim that the Supreme Court had made such a declaration. The party stressed that while the case regarding the National Secretary position was ongoing, the court’s ruling did not make any final determination regarding the party’s leadership structure.

The confusion stemmed from misinterpretations of the court’s previous rulings, with some media outlets prematurely suggesting that Anyanwu had been officially recognized by the Supreme Court as the National Secretary of the PDP. However, the PDP maintained that the matter is still under judicial consideration and that no final decision has been issued.

The party further urged its supporters and the general public to disregard the misinformation and await an official statement once the case is fully resolved. PDP’s leadership also called for calm, emphasizing their commitment to upholding the rule of law in all internal matters.

The dispute over the position of National Secretary has been a subject of legal challenges within the party, following the contested outcome of the PDP’s national convention. The party continues to monitor the proceedings as it seeks to clarify its internal leadership structure.

Rivers Impasse: Senator Umeh Debunks Dollar Allegations, Warns Sahara Reporters Over Serial Blackmail

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Senator Victor Umeh, representing Anambra Central Senatorial District, has denied allegations made by Sahara Reporters that he received dollars to support the State of Emergency declared by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in Rivers State.

In a statement, Umeh warned Sahara Reporters to cease their serial blackmail against him, stating that this was the third time the outfit had published false information about him.

He emphasized that he did not receive any money to support the Approval of the State of Emergency in Rivers State and was not present at the alleged Meeting on Wednesday where $10,000 was allegedly made to 42 Senators, let alone being one of the Key Figures that organized the Event.

“I did not receive any money to support the Approval of the State of Emergency in Rivers State. I was not at any meeting where such payments were allegedly made,” Umeh stated.

Umeh explained that on the evening of Tuesday, he attended the traditional IFTAR ( Breaking of Fasting) gathering at the Senate Guest House with their Muslim brothers and Sister, where he was asked to say the Christian Prayers after Senator Adamu Aliero has said the Muslim Prayers at the Conclusion of the IFTAR.

” I prayed for God to grant Peace to all parts of Nigeria and Reconciliation to all the warring parties in Rivers State.

“I prayed for love and for all Nigerians to embrace one another, for the good of our nation.”

“We did not discuss State of Emergency in Rivers State at the IFTAR.”

“There were other Labour Party Senators at the IFTAR.”

The senator described the Sahara Reporters’ story as blackmail, stressing that it did not represent the truth.

He assured his constituents that such reports would not distract him from providing good Representation, adding that the aim of the detractors was to create disaffection between him and the people and impugn his reputation.

“This is not the first time Sahara Reporters has published false information about me. It’s becoming a serial blackmail, and I’m warning them to stop.

“I will not be distracted by their false reports, and I will continue to serve my constituents with dignity and integrity,” Umeh declared.

Our Correspondent learnt that opposition lawmakers were shut out when the Senate approved the Rivers State Emergency Rule on Thursday.

Earlier, it was gathered that some Lawmakers had argued that the President’s decision was necessary to restore order in the state, while others claimed it was an attempt to undermine democracy.