In a powerful show of civic resolve, hundreds of women from across Rivers State took to the streets of Port Harcourt, demanding the restoration of democratic order in the state and voicing strong support for Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
The protest, which began early in the morning and gathered momentum as it moved through major streets, was marked by chants, placards, and peaceful demonstrations. Slogans such as “#BringBackFubara” and “Democracy Must Prevail” echoed through the city, drawing the attention of onlookers and sparking widespread conversation both online and offline.
Dressed in red, black and adorned with banners calling for peace and justice, the demonstrators decried what they described as “continued political interference” and attempts to undermine the will of the people.
“We voted for Governor Fubara, and we will not allow democracy to be hijacked,” said Mrs. Grace Worlu, one of the protest leaders. “This is not just about one man—it’s about respecting the choice of Rivers people.”
Tensions in Rivers State have been escalating over recent weeks following a political standoff between the governor and Former Governor Wike and APC influential political forces within the state’s leadership. The resulting impasse has led to fears of a democratic breakdown and sparked growing public unrest.
The women’s protest, the second of its kind in recent weeks, was largely peaceful, with security agencies maintaining a visible but non-confrontational presence.
Civil society groups and rights organizations have expressed solidarity with the protesters, urging federal authorities and political stakeholders to uphold the rule of law and ensure that democratic institutions are not eroded.
As the situation continues to develop, all eyes remain on Rivers State, where the citizens—especially the women—have made it clear: their voices will not be silenced.
A yet-to-be-identified officer of the recently-launched security operatives in Anambra State, Agụnechemba (popularly known as Operation Udo Ga-Achị) has reportedly shot down a woman in Anambra State while trying to clear a traffic gridlock to make way for their security convoy.
The incident happened on Tuesday evening along the popular and ever-busy Ibeto Junction at Nnewi, Nnewi North Local Government Area of the State.
According to eyewitnesses, road users were trapped down by the usual traffic gridlock that always occurs along the Ibeto Junction axis every morning and evening; and while the road users were patiently following and waiting for the traffic to clear, the operatives Udo Ga-Achị drove down, and also had their convoy trapped there by the gridlock.
Reports have it that the operatives, in their attempts to clear the way for their convoy, started firing gunshots; and in the process, a road user, simply identified as Chiamaka, got hit by bullet, and she slumped immediately. It was gathered that the woman was thereafter confirmed dead by the doctor, as she was dangerously hit by the bullet.
When contacted by this reporter, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Anambra State Police Command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed the incident, and further affirmed that the victim is dead.
He, however, assured that quick steps and actions have already been initiated by the Command towards identifying the patrol vehicles and the identities of the Operation Udo Ga-Achị team that went to the said area on the said date and time.
“Yes, the Command is aware of it. And we have escalated it to the leadership of the Agụnechemba for them to help us to identify the patrol vehicles that went to Nnewi yesterday, for possible identification of the alleged operative that actually shot the gun,” he said, while also confirming that the victim is dead.
Although, the full identity of the victim is yet to be identified as at the time of filing this report, the report is also corroborated by videos currently trending on social media, showing the dead body of the victim, while other road users were seen bemoaning, condemning, and lamenting over the incident.
Efforts by this reporter, Izunna Okafor, to get the reactions of the Nnewi North Local Government Chairman on the incident, proved abortive, as he insisted he must see the reporter ‘face to face’ before commenting on the issue.
Additionally, attempts by the reporter to get the reactions of the State Commissioner for Information, Dr Law Mefor; and the Special Adviser to the Governor on Community Security, proved abortive, as they were yet to respond to their phone calls as at the time of this publication.
Reports have it that the operatives of Agụnechemba had similarly killed another woman in Mgbakwu, Awka North Local Government Area of the State, sometime in March, barely two months after their inauguration by Governor Chukwuma Soludo.
Recall also that the Governor on April 1, inaugurated a supervisory committee to oversee and coordinate the activities and operations of the Agụnechemba, which, he said, would be pivotal in maintaining order and ensuring that the security outfit operates within the ambit of the law.
If history must be fair, then credit must be given where it’s due.
Since Nigeria’s return to democracy in 1999, Bauchi State has never been an easy battleground for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in presidential elections. The state’s only moment of alignment with the PDP at the presidential level came during the 1999 elections. After that, the story took a familiar and painful turn. The PDP lost its grip. The people of Bauchi aligned their destiny, almost religiously, with a singular figure — Muhammadu Buhari.
From 2003 through 2019, Buhari was more than a candidate in Bauchi—he was a phenomenon. Whether he flew the flag of the ANPP, CPC, or eventually the APC, the state followed. His connection with the Northern grassroots was unmatched. PDP’s strongest candidate from the North, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar—the Wazirin Adamawa—could not alter that equation. Even when Atiku had the advantage of home region proximity and national prominence, he was outmatched by Buhari’s hold on Northern Nigeria.
The PDP watched, election after election, as Bauchi slipped further from its grasp. Presidential elections in Bauchi were reduced to formalities—APC (or its precursor platforms) had an assumed lead, and PDP merely participated.
But 2023 Changed Everything
Then came the 2023 elections. A year that rewrote many assumptions in Nigeria’s political landscape. A year that revealed not just the cracks in old coalitions but also the birth of new political awakenings.
In Bauchi, what happened wasn’t just a political event—it was a quiet revolution. At the heart of it stood Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, the Executive Governor of Bauchi State—fondly known as Kaura. Against all odds, in a political terrain considered unfavourable to the PDP, he engineered one of the most remarkable turnarounds in recent electoral history.
Let the record be clear: Bauchi voted for the PDP in the 2023 presidential election—for the first time in 24 years.
This victory wasn’t ceremonial; it was historic. It wasn’t simply about Atiku Abubakar winning Bauchi—it was about reclaiming the political soul of the North East for the PDP. It was about resilience, strategy, and the fierce loyalty of one man who refused to bow to pressure: Governor Bala Mohammed.
Not an Easy Path
Those who understand the inner workings of Bauchi’s political terrain know that this did not come easy. The APC was formidable. The Tinubu campaign, understanding the strategic importance of Bauchi, came hard. The ruling party deployed its full arsenal—resources, alliances, and pressure. But Kaura remained unfazed.
Internally, PDP in Bauchi was not without its issues. Party infighting, parallel interests, and factional grievances could have torn the party apart before election day. Many predicted a collapse. But Kaura held his ground. He rallied the base, brokered uneasy truces, reinvigorated the grassroots, and ran a campaign not just of slogans but of sincerity and structure.
He didn’t just deliver PDP in the presidential election; he delivered it in the face of adversity. His victory was not a fluke—it was engineered, block by block, ward by ward, vote by vote. And the result? Bauchi didn’t just go PDP—it gave Atiku Abubakar a better performance than his own home state of Adamawa.
A Testament to Political Capital
What does this say about Kaura? It says he is not just a governor, not just a former FCT minister or a seasoned bureaucrat. It says that Senator Bala Mohammed is a political force, deeply rooted, and profoundly respected.
While many were distracted by power plays in Abuja, Kaura was defending the soul of the party in the trenches. He didn’t seek the spotlight. He sought victory—for the party, for the region, and for democracy.
This is not to say he didn’t face betrayals. He did. There were attempts—both internal and external—to derail his mission. Stakeholders who should have stood by him chose neutrality or opposition. There were plots, propaganda, and pressure to waver. But Kaura remained steadfast. And in the end, he proved that loyalty, when combined with strategic intelligence and grassroots presence, is a powerful force.
A Wake-Up Call to the Party
As the PDP continues its post-2023 reflections, it must not make the mistake of erasing the contributions of its real defenders. Too often, party stalwarts are remembered too late—when the battle is lost or the momentum has shifted. Just as Wike became a post-2023 scapegoat in the South, we must resist the urge to overlook those who actually delivered in the North.
The time for reform and reconciliation within the PDP is now—not in 2026 or 2027. The party must begin by recognizing and empowering those who stood tall when others fled. Kaura deserves not just a handshake, but a seat at the table where PDP’s future is being planned. He is a key stakeholder not by declaration, but by demonstrated results.
Looking Ahead to 2027
As the nation looks ahead to the 2027 elections, the lessons from Bauchi must not be ignored. When the chips were down, when the North East looked uncertain, it was Governor Bala Mohammed who delivered. Not with noise, not with bluster, but with effective mobilization, unity, and conviction.
Nigeria needs leaders who can combine character with competence, loyalty with leadership. And if the PDP must rebuild itself ahead of 2027, it must look no further than Bauchi for one of its most reliable pillars.
Kaura answered the call in 2023. The question is: will the party answer his, when the time comes?
Let us be fair. Let us be honest. Bauchi didn’t flip itself. It took vision, strength, sacrifice, and above all—Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed.
History, when it is finally written, will remember this moment. And it will remember Kaura.
***Says Nigeria A Wounded, Bleeding Nation In Need of Healing
***Says God Weeping For Nigeria Because Of Corruption, Banditry, Terrorism, Bloodshed
The Catholic Archbishop of Abuja Diocese, Most Rev Ignatius Kaigama, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to deal decisively with insecurity in Nigeria, which, he said, has developed branches and spreading like a monster across the country.
Describing Nigeria as “a wounded and bleeding nation in need of healing”, he said all security operatives must restrategize in their approach to end the widespread insecurity in the country, while resources allocated to fight crimes in the country must be used honestly and transparently.
Kaigama stated these in an interview with journalists on the sidelines of a Chrism Mass held Our Lady Queen of Nigeria Pro-Cathedral in Abuja.
“The Chrism Mass gathers us priests as one presbyterate, one family of faith, around the Bishop, to bless the oils of the sick, the catechumens, and sacred Chrism, and for each priest to renew his priestly commitment as “alter Christus” – another Christ”, the cleric explained.
Kaigama said, “When the Catholic Bishop went to see him (President Bola Tinubu). We had to appeal to the President that they must rise to the occasion, and things are well.
“There was a time when it was only Boko Haram; another time it was militant herdsmen. Now, insecurity has diversified. Criminality has developed branches. It is a monster, spreading in all directions. There is a need for restrategizing. Whatsoever the security agencies are doing has worked to an extent, but there is no solution yet.
“There should be an inter-agency corporation. There should be no competition. All the security forces should go all out for criminals. These people are not ghosts.
“I am hoping that a new step will be taken. We insist that good work must be done. The resources voted for security must be used honestly and transparently.”
Earlier while delivering his message, Kaigama said not only are priests in need of healing, but the citizens and Nigeria need it too.
He said, “Our nation needs healing from the festering wounds inflicted by politics, and harsh economic realities that do not only result in crimes and violence but subsequently, to unsound minds of our dear young people. We continue to witness criminality that robs people of their lives which should be sacred.
“The brutal killings in Ondo, Uromi, Bokkos, and Borno; the several killings in Southern Kaduna including the cruel murder of a priest of Kafanchan diocese; the killings of some 16 soldiers recently, and many untold killings show a wounded and bleeding nation in need of healing.
“One can only imagine how many families are left devastated, traumatized, and broken severely. By now, one would think that with the combination of modern technology and non-kinetic methods, criminality would have been greatly reduced in Nigeria. The recurring violence in different parts of the nation is a sign of a nation in need of healing. How criminals known as “unknown gunmen,” kidnappers, terrorists, militant herdsmen, etc., are nearly never always apprehended and decisively dealt with is puzzling.
“They appear, kill, burn houses, and farms, injure people, and disappear, and only later to stage a comeback inflicting more damage than previously, costing innumerable loss of human lives. It appears that we have yet to get the right technology to hunt these criminals down, or is it the absence of goodwill or political will?
“We are not only spiritually sick but also economically, politically, and socially. We need individual and collective healing. Luke 19:41 tells us that as Jesus nears the city of Jerusalem, He pauses and weeps. His tears are not for Himself, but for Jerusalem, for those who will reject Him, for the destruction that will come upon them because they did not recognize the time of God’s visitation.
“What makes God weep for Nigeria? Corruption, banditry, terrorism, bloodshed, etc. Despite the strong presence and the external practice of Christianity and Islam, many, reject the truth of God’s word and choose to conceal it and not bear witness to it; we put people who speak the truth down; we refuse to be instruments of God’s love and mercy to others; we choose to live in sin rather than God’s grace and mercy. We place others on the cross by our hatred and rejection of them.”
The governor of Plateau State, Caleb Mutfwang said he has not stopped crying since yesterday since the reports of the killing of over 50 people in Bassa Local Government Area of the state.
Mutfwang while speaking in a video shared by Channels Television broke down in tears and apologised to the people of Plateau State.
Stating that he feels responsible for failing his people, the governor said his administration failed to prevent another deadly another in the state.
Recall that some gunmen had invaded the Zikke community in Bassa LGA leaving over 50 people killed.
This attack on the community comes barely days after gunmen invaded five different communities in Bokkos LGA of Plateau State where over 50 people were also killed.
Speaking during a visit to the scene of the attack in the Zikke community, Mutfwang said, “I will tell you the truth: I myself, I have been crying since yesterday because I had trusted God that all the arrangements we had been put in place, that this would not happen again.”
According to the governor, his administration had adopted every necessary measure to ensure that the attackers do not succeed in their acts.
He said, “We have made investments in security but like all human arrangements, sometimes they fail. I want to admit that on Sunday night into Monday morning, we failed you. Please, forgive me.”
He commiserated with the families of those who lost their lives during the attack.
He also pleaded with the people of the state to remain vigilant and assist operatives of the security agencies in preventing future attacks.
A legal practitioner and human rights activist, Ifeanyi Ejiofor, is worried by the activities of Fulani herders in Nigeria with a call for decisive action by the government and security agencies.
According to him, although human life is sacred and irreplaceable, yet, it often appears that in Nigeria, the lives of cattle are valued more than those of human beings.
Ejiofor, counsel to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), in a statement said the reckless killing of citizens by herders is “a shameful indictment on our government and an affront to our shared humanity.”
He said, “Nigeria is witnessing a grave national tragedy – a relentless wave of violence unleashed by rampaging Fulani herdsmen from Plateau to Benue, from Uzo Uwani in Enugu State to parts of Delta State. The unchecked bloodbath of innocent, defenceless citizens – whose only crime is being aboriginal to their ancestral lands – has become a tragic, daily occurrence.
“Each day, new casualty figures are reported by the media, reducing human lives to mere statistics, as though we were counting livestock. Behind those numbers are mothers, fathers, children, and breadwinners – fellow citizens whose lives have been brutally cut short by wicked, soulless killers. The most recent massacre in Plateau State reportedly claimed 52 lives just yesterday, though locals insist the real toll is even higher. Shockingly, these atrocities continue while the state sits in complicit silence, issuing hollow condemnations without any meaningful action.
“Let it be made clear: Human Life is Sacred and irreplaceable. Yet in this country, it too often appears that the lives of cattle are valued more than those of human beings. This is a shameful indictment on our government and an affront to our shared humanity.
“The time for rhetoric has passed. This is an urgent and unambiguous call for decisive, coordinated action by the Federal Government led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and the governors of the affected states. These leaders swore an oath – backed by the constitution – to protect the lives and property of citizens and to guarantee their security. It is a sacred duty, not a negotiable privilege.
“The continuous slaughter of innocent Nigerians by marauding herdsmen and the government’s inertia in the face of this carnage is both condemnable and unacceptable. All security and law enforcement agencies must act decisively, without bias or hesitation.
“Communities must also awaken to the painful reality of the state’s failure and begin to lawfully safeguard themselves against this existential threat.
“I must reiterate: Life is precious. Its sanctity must be preserved. Government at all levels must immediately restore public confidence, secure our communities, and ensure that safety of the citizens is not a luxury but a right for all. Enough must finally be enough – and must be seen to be so.”
The police authority has broken its silence and clarified lingering speculations surrounding a bizarre and sacrilegious incident that unfolded at the highly dreaded Agemo Shrine in the Ijebu Ode area of Ogun State — one that sent shockwaves through the ancient city and triggered a flurry of reactions online and offline.
The incident, which occurred over the weekend, involved a man identified as Jeremiah Nwoke, who allegedly attempted to desecrate the iconic Agemo deity statue by severing and stealing the golden idol therein. The statue, a cultural monument reportedly commissioned over 21 years ago, stands at the Itoro Roundabout along Folagbade Road in Ijebu Ode, and is a symbol of spiritual reverence among traditional worshippers in the region.
Eyewitnesses and local residents were jolted awake over the weekend to find the once-majestic statue vandalized, with its golden headpiece forcibly removed. Alongside the shattered remnants of the deity’s crown lay a man, clad in a blue top, motionless. A viral video that surfaced shortly after showed the man lying beside the desecrated statue, fueling widespread speculation that he had been struck dead by the deity in what many described as divine retribution for a sacrilegious act.
The mystery deepened as more unverified reports circulated, claiming that the alleged thief had died at the scene — an assertion that rapidly gained traction on social media, sparking fear, awe, and outrage in equal measure.
However, in a significant twist to the tale, the Ogun State Police Command, through its spokesperson, SP Omolola Odutola, has debunked those claims and provided a clearer, more factual account of what transpired.
In a statement over the week, SP Odutola confirmed that the suspect, Jeremiah Nwoke, is alive and currently in police custody. She described the incident as a shocking case of shrine desecration, revealing that the suspect had attempted to sever the crown of the Agemo statue before being apprehended by law enforcement officers.
“A male adult, Jeremiah Nwoke, desecrated the revered Agemo Shrine by severing its crown, which has since been recovered and is now in safe custody at the Obalende Police Station,” she stated.
Odutola emphasized that contrary to the viral rumors, Nwoke was not struck dead at the scene, but was rather subdued and rescued by the police who arrived promptly and acted swiftly to prevent what could have escalated into violent unrest by agitated traditional worshippers.
“Prompt response by the police at the scene calmed tension and prevented potential violent escalation by traditional worshippers,” she added.
She also revealed that preliminary evaluations suggest that the suspect may be suffering from a mental health condition, noting that psychological assessments are currently underway to determine his mental state.
“Initial observations suggest signs of mental instability,” Odutola explained, adding that the Command is taking all necessary measures to ensure that due process is followed.
While the motive behind the attempted theft remains unclear, the incident has stirred intense emotions and debates within and beyond the Ijebu Ode community — with many viewing it as not just a criminal offense, but a spiritual affront to centuries of sacred tradition and cultural heritage.
Meanwhile, calm has reportedly returned to the area, with no further threats to public safety. Odutola reassured residents and visitors alike that the situation is under control and that the Ogun State Police Command remains committed to maintaining peace and order in the region.
“Ijebu Ode remains calm. Members of the public are assured of their safety as the investigation into the incident continues,” she assured.
Bauchi State Government has unveiled plan to develop a new Bauchi City of 1.269 Hecters along Bauchi-Kano road within the outskirts of the state metropolis.
The Commissioner of Land and Survey, Abdullahi Mohammed Gwaram gave the figure while fielding questions from journalists during a public presentation on the concept plans for Bauchi New Town project at Command Guest Inn, Monday in Bauchi.
According to the Commissioner, the present administration under the leadership of Governor Bala Mohammed is passionately committed towards uplifting the lives of its citizens by providing good governance through the provision of decent environment, security, food, health care delivery, education, housing and other social services. Hence the need for new Bauchi City.
Group photograph of participants at the event in Bauchi state
He disclosed that the New Bauchi is envisaged to decongest the current State capital as well as to create investment opportunities.
He said the New City is expected to occupied a land space of 1,269 Hecters along Bauchi – Kano road adjecent to Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University main campus.
The Commissioner however assured all affected communities of good and appropriate compensation for land acquired for the New Bauchi.
“the essence of this public presentation is to create public awareness and to get inputs from all stakeholders in planning for the Bauchi new town.
” We want engage all parties involved from bottom to the top by living no one behind in this project implementation. Adding that the New Bauchi Town when completed would provide houses comprising of low, middle and high income people as well as other modern social amenities inline global standard.
Our correspondent reports that the design of the New Bauchi Town was awarded to the SEKTIK Design in supervision of the Bauchi State Ministry of Lands and Survey and Bauchi State Geographic Information System (BAGIS).
In recent days, the Bauchi State Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has come under unwarranted attack from Mr. Dan Bello—a self-styled critic whose recent public outburst amounts to nothing less than a character assassination against our respected Chairman and an assault on the very fabric of religious unity in Bauchi State.
Let it be known from the outset: Mr. Bello’s accusations are entirely false, unfounded, and defamatory. They are laced with venomous rhetoric and calculated mischief aimed at causing disaffection within the Christian community and disrupting the peaceful interfaith atmosphere that has flourished under the current CAN leadership.
Baseless Allegations and Reckless Defamation
Mr. Dan Bello has leveled accusations suggesting that our Chairman has undertaken clandestine foreign engagements, misused Church resources, and undermined Christian unity. We categorically and unequivocally deny these allegations. The CAN Chairman has never traveled to any part of the Western world, nor has he ever delivered an address to any foreign government, group, or religious assembly for any alleged controversial purpose. No such trip, meeting, transaction, or audio-visual evidence exists.
Mr. Bello has not presented a single shred of evidence—no documentation, no recordings, no financial trail—to support his fantastical claims. Instead, he has chosen to peddle half-truths and outright lies, hoping to damage the character of a man who has dedicated his life to service and unity. This is not criticism; it is malicious slander, and we will not take it lightly.
Legal Remedies in Progress
Under Nigerian law, particularly Sections 373 and 375 of the Criminal Code, such actions constitute criminal defamation—an offense punishable by imprisonment. In civil terms, his statements are defamatory per se: inherently damaging without need for further proof of harm. Our legal team is currently finalizing steps toward initiating formal proceedings against Mr. Bello for both libel and slander.
Furthermore, freedom of expression—though protected under Section 39 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended)—does not cover malicious falsehoods intended to tarnish another’s reputation. Mr. Bello’s abuse of this right will be met with the full force of the law.
A Record of Peace, Unity, and Leadership
The record of the CAN Chairman speaks for itself. Under his leadership, the Christian community in Bauchi State has enjoyed an unprecedented era of stability, cooperation, and advocacy. His style of leadership is marked by humility, accountability, and a tireless dedication to inter-religious harmony.
The collaboration between CAN and the Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI), which has produced several peace-building initiatives and interfaith dialogues, stands as a testament to this administration’s commitment to coexistence. Through joint summits, mediation platforms, and community outreach efforts, religious tensions have been significantly reduced.
These are not mere claims; they are documented achievements recognized by local authorities, civil society groups, and even international observers. That Mr. Bello seeks to undermine these efforts with reckless insinuations is both shameful and regrettable.
A Misguided Crusade of a Disgruntled Individual
It is evident that Mr. Bello’s motivations are not driven by truth or concern for the Church, but by personal vendetta and a desire for relevance. His statements are consistent with a pattern of seeking to inflame division rather than foster unity. His tactics are divisive, his language incendiary, and his intentions toxic.
He seeks to sow distrust among Christians and between faiths, at a time when unity is needed more than ever. Such behavior not only harms individuals but endangers the social fabric of Bauchi State. Mr. Bello may cloak his rhetoric in the garb of activism, but the naked truth remains: his actions are that of a saboteur.
A Call for Wisdom, Calm, and Focus
To the Christian faithful in Bauchi State and across Nigeria, we say: stand firm in the truth. Do not be swayed by the noise of a lone voice echoing in an empty chamber of self-interest. We ask you to remain discerning, to reject the falsehoods being peddled, and to continue supporting the leadership that has stood with you in times of peace and adversity.
To our Muslim counterparts and interfaith partners: be assured that this incident does not reflect any shift in our commitment to harmony and peace. We will continue to walk the path of dialogue, understanding, and mutual respect.
To civil society, the media, and the larger public: we urge you to verify, to scrutinize, and to hold truth above sensationalism. Inflammatory statements made without evidence should be condemned and rejected in every civil society.
Moving Forward
This episode, though unfortunate, has strengthened our resolve. CAN Bauchi remains undeterred, unbroken, and committed to its mission: to serve, to unite, and to defend the interests of Christians without compromising the peace of the state.
The Chairman of CAN has nothing to hide. His leadership is rooted in transparency, faith, and justice. Attempts to drag his name through the mud will ultimately fail, for lies have a short life, but truth endures.
We call on all peace-loving Nigerians, especially within Bauchi State, to rise above divisiveness and reject voices of confusion. CAN will remain a beacon of moral leadership, truth, and unity—undaunted by slander, untouched by blackmail.
Let us be reminded of the words of Scripture: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God” (Matthew 5:9). We will continue to be peacemakers, even in the face of persecution and false accusation.
The political turmoil in Rivers State has escalated dramatically as eleven governors from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) filed a landmark suit at the Supreme Court, challenging the constitutional validity of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the imposition of a sole administrator in the state.
This comes after President Tinubu, on March 18, 2025, declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, suspending Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and all elected members of the Rivers State House of Assembly for six months. In their place, he appointed retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas as the sole administrator—a move ratified by both the Senate and House of Representatives.
In response, governors from Adamawa, Enugu, Osun, Oyo, Bauchi, Akwa Ibom, Plateau, Delta, Taraba, Zamfara, and Bayelsa states approached the apex court with a strongly worded originating summons (SC/CV/329/2025). They argue that the president’s actions contravene the 1999 Constitution (as amended), particularly concerning the separation of powers and the autonomy of states.
To reinforce their case, the PDP governors have assembled a formidable legal team comprising seven Senior Advocates of Nigeria (SANs): Bolaji Ayorinde, Eyitayo Jegede, Kamaldeen Ajibade, J.A. Mumuni, Musibau Adetunbi, Samuel Atung, and Yunus Abdulsalam. They are supported by a team of six seasoned lawyers, including M.S. Atolagbe, Ezenwa Ibegbunam, Chiamaka Anagu, Olakunle Lawal, Abduljalil Musa, and H.A. Adeleke.
Meanwhile, the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), is reportedly finalizing the Federal Government’s counter-argument. Sources within the AGF’s office confirmed that legal teams are working “around the clock” to prepare a comprehensive defense of the president’s actions.
“We are treating the matter with utmost urgency, and the President’s position will be clearly defended before the court,” a senior legal aide said on condition of anonymity.
In a parallel legal move, former House of Representatives member, Hon. Farah Dagogo, has filed a suit at the Federal High Court in Port Harcourt, seeking to nullify the emergency proclamation. Justice Adamu Turaki Mohammed has granted an order for substituted service and scheduled the substantive hearing for May 12, 2025.
Dagogo’s lead counsel, C.I. Enweluzo (SAN), stated that direct service on the defendants—including the President, Senate President, Speaker of the House, and the sole administrator—had proven difficult, prompting the court to order delivery via DHL to their last known addresses.
As political and legal fireworks continue, voices of concern and mediation are rising. Former Bayelsa State Governor and current Senator Seriake Dickson visited the embattled Fubara, praising his composure and urging calm.
“This is not just a Rivers issue; it affects the stability of the entire Niger Delta,” Dickson stated in a message shared via his verified Facebook page.
Adding a grassroots dimension to the crisis, ex-militant leader and Chairman of Tantita Security Services, Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, voiced support for Fubara during his 54th birthday celebration.
“I cannot betray the Ijaw nation. Talks are ongoing, and Fubara will return as governor,” Tompolo affirmed, while simultaneously calling for unity.
“Wike must bring his temper down. We will dialogue and resolve this. This is not the time for rebellion but for peace,” he added, referencing the longstanding political feud between Governor Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike.
As tensions mount, all eyes are now on the judiciary to determine whether President Tinubu’s intervention was a constitutional necessity or an overreach of executive power. The outcome is expected to set a critical precedent in Nigeria’s democratic history.
