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Tag: Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu

  • Shettima Replacement Could Undermine Tinubu’s Reelection, APC Says

    Shettima Replacement Could Undermine Tinubu’s Reelection, APC Says

    The North-Central All Progressives Congress (APC) Forum has rejected moves to replace Vice President Kashim Shettima as President Bola Tinubu’s running mate for the 2027 election, warning that such a decision would be a “political miscalculation” that could jeopardize Tinubu’s reelection. The warning comes amid reports that some party elements are advocating for a Christian candidate from the North to replace Shettima, following the Vice President’s omission from a recent APC North-East banner.

    In a statement on Thursday, the Forum, led by Chairman Alhaji Saleh Zazzaga, argued that dropping Shettima would weaken the party’s electoral position in the North. It noted that the North currently lacks a Christian candidate with sufficient grassroots support and national appeal to complement Tinubu’s ticket. The statement emphasized that the Muslim-Muslim ticket contributed to Tinubu’s victory in 2023 and cautioned against letting religious considerations dictate political strategy.

    The Forum also dismissed suggestions that foreign governments might influence the party’s decision, stressing that Nigeria is a sovereign nation. “The Muslim-Muslim ticket gave us victory in 2023. Nigeria is independent, and nobody is going to dictate to us,” the statement said, warning that external pressure could disrupt democratic processes and provoke conflict.

    The controversy over Shettima’s future resurfaced amid renewed debates on the APC’s electoral strategy and ticket composition. The Forum argued that replacing Shettima would not attract new votes but could alienate core northern supporters, potentially benefiting opposition candidates, including Peter Obi of the African Democratic Congress (ADC). The group urged Tinubu to maintain the status quo to secure victory in 2027.

  • Lagos APC Hails Tinubu’s Youth-Focused Agenda

    Lagos APC Hails Tinubu’s Youth-Focused Agenda

    The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has said President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda demonstrates genuine commitment to youth empowerment, unlike the opposition, which it accused of deceiving young Nigerians for years.

    In a statement on Friday, the party’s spokesperson, Seye Oladejo, said Tinubu’s agenda is not a mere political slogan but “a living testament to visionary leadership anchored on the empowerment of the Nigerian youth.”

    “For decades, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu has demonstrated a rare and consistent belief in the energy, intellect, and innovation of young Nigerians,” Oladejo said. “From Lagos to Abuja, his philosophy has always been to groom the young, trust their talent, and watch them transform society. That same belief now drives Nigeria’s national renewal.”

    He noted that unlike previous administrations that offered “empty promises,” President Tinubu has implemented tangible initiatives, including the Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), CreditCorp, the 3MTT digital skills programme, NITDA Talent Hunt, and the Digital Innovation Support Fund.

    Oladejo added that the government’s renewed focus on free technical education and entrepreneurship development is designed to equip young Nigerians with practical skills for self-reliance.

    “This is not charity; it is investment — an investment in skills, innovation, and the future of Nigeria’s workforce,” he said. “By empowering youths to create value and opportunities, President Tinubu is building a generation that depends on creativity, not handouts.”

    The APC spokesperson further stated that Tinubu has redefined the notion that “the future belongs to the youth,” noting that under the Renewed Hope Agenda, “the future is now.”

    He also praised the inclusion of young people in key government appointments and policy-making, describing it as “a deliberate strategy for national greatness, not an act of benevolence.”

    Oladejo accused the opposition of hypocrisy, saying those who sidelined young Nigerians in the past are now trying to win them over through “shallow activism and social media slogans.”

    “The truth is simple,” he said. “Nigerian youths are wiser than the propaganda. They know who genuinely invests in their future and who only remembers them at election time.”

  • Tinubu gifts D’Tigress $100K, National honours after AfroBasket win

    Tinubu gifts D’Tigress $100K, National honours after AfroBasket win

    Following their historic victory at the 2025 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket, President Bola Tinubu has honoured Nigeria’s national women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, with a lavish reward package, including cash prizes, housing, and national honours.

    Each player will receive $100,000, while every member of the coaching and technical crew will be awarded $50,000. In addition, all team members and officials will be gifted three-bedroom apartments, and conferred with the national honour of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON).

    The announcement was made on Monday by Vice President Kashim Shettima during a presidential reception held at the State House Banquet Hall in Abuja, on behalf of President Tinubu. The First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, and the wife of the Vice President, Nana Shettima, warmly received the victorious team at the New Banquet Hall around 5:05 PM.

    D’Tigress secured a dominant 78-64 win over Mali in Ivory Coast on Sunday to claim a record-extending fifth consecutive AfroBasket title, setting a new benchmark in African women’s basketball history. The triumph broke Senegal’s long-standing record of four straight wins between 1974 and 1981.

    Nigeria now boasts seven AfroBasket titles overall, and has maintained an unbeaten run of 29 matches in the tournament over the past decade. Their latest triumph also earns them an automatic qualification for the 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup.

    Team captain Amy Okonkwo was named Most Valuable Player (MVP) for the second consecutive tournament, further highlighting Nigeria’s dominance on the continent.

    The ceremony mirrors a similar honour extended to the Super Falcons, Nigeria’s national women’s football team, who were also celebrated last week for winning a record 10th WAFCON title in Rabat, Morocco.

    Also present at the event were Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila; Senate Youth and Sports Committee Chairman, Garba Maidoki; and House Sports Committee Chairman, Kabiru Amadou.

  • Dele Momodu Accuses Tinubu of Undermining Democracy for Second Term

    Dele Momodu Accuses Tinubu of Undermining Democracy for Second Term

    Dele Momodu

    Veteran journalist and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain, Dele Momodu, has accused President Bola Tinubu of compromising Nigeria’s democratic values in pursuit of a second term.

    Speaking on Arise Television’s Prime Time on Thursday, Momodu expressed concern that Tinubu, once a leading figure in the fight for democracy, is now at risk of eroding the very principles he once championed.

    “Because you must do the second term by fire or by force, then you will destroy the entire democracy,” Momodu said, addressing Tinubu directly during the interview.

    He described the President as a politically savvy and influential leader who uses his allies to achieve personal objectives, suggesting that this strategy poses a threat to democratic integrity.

    Momodu challenged Tinubu to reflect on the legacy he is building, warning that the pursuit of power at all costs could tarnish his historical achievements.

    “You got what Awolowo couldn’t get, what Abiola and Azikiwe were chasing. Is it worth it if your name ends up in the book of ignominy?” he asked.

    He emphasized that no political ambition should come at the expense of national stability and democratic progress.

    Momodu’s remarks come amid growing concerns over political tensions and allegations of authoritarian tendencies within the current administration.

    The presidency has yet to respond to the criticism.

  • Wike Defends Renaming ICC After Tinubu, Dismisses Sycophancy Claims

    Wike Defends Renaming ICC After Tinubu, Dismisses Sycophancy Claims

     

    The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has defended the decision to rename the International Conference Centre (ICC) in Abuja after President Bola Tinubu, dismissing claims that the move was an act of sycophancy.

    Speaking at his monthly media parley on Thursday, Wike questioned the criticism surrounding the renaming and argued that national figures should be honored while they are still alive and contributing to national development.

    “That place is booked until 2027. Now you are saying, why did I name it after Bola Tinubu? Who should I name it after? Who is more qualified?” Wike asked.

    He dismissed the argument that the ICC should retain a neutral title, noting that other public facilities, such as the IBB International Golf Club, are named after prominent Nigerians.

    Responding to accusations of political flattery, Wike said: “What is sycophancy? Sycophancy because someone showed leadership and supported me to achieve results? It’s only when people die that we want to celebrate them. I will not do that.”

    The minister further criticized the notion that honoring current leaders is inappropriate, adding, “Why all this noise about renaming the ICC after Tinubu? Should we rename it after armed robbers?”

    Wike insisted that the decision was based on merit and Tinubu’s contributions to governance, not political favoritism.

    The ICC, a major venue for international and national events in Abuja, was recently renamed to honor President Tinubu’s leadership.

    As the move continues to generate public debate, Wike has remained firm in defending what he describes as a deserved recognition.

  • Tinubu Was Misinformed on Benue Killings — Shippers Council CEO

    Tinubu Was Misinformed on Benue Killings — Shippers Council CEO

    Barrister Pius Akutah

    The Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers  Council, Barrister Pius Akutah, has said President Bola Tinubu did not receive accurate information regarding the recent killings in Benue State.

    Speaking to journalists at his residence in Makurdi, Akutah defended the President’s intentions, stating that Tinubu’s response was based on flawed briefings. He urged Nigerians, particularly Benue residents, to remain patient and supportive.

    “The speed with which Mr. President responded and the content of his statement showed he was misbriefed. When the governor later gave an interview, people began to understand the context of the President’s remarks,” Akutah said.

    He emphasized that Tinubu is committed to addressing the country’s insecurity and broader political challenges, particularly in states like Benue. “He is firm, honest, and sincerely focused on building a legacy for Nigeria,” Akutah added.

    Highlighting recent government efforts, Akutah pointed to the removal of fuel subsidies and the push for economic diversification as examples of Tinubu’s decisive leadership. “He said it, he did it. On day one, he removed the subsidy and stood his ground despite backlash,” he noted.

    Akutah also credited the administration’s policies for helping stabilize the naira and shifting the economy towards the non-oil sector. “Today, the non-oil sector is growing because of the President’s direction,” he said.

    He acknowledged public concerns over rising poverty and hunger but attributed them to the consequences of past government failures. “It’s like removing something that’s been stuck painfully — there’s discomfort now, but healing will follow,” Akutah explained.

    According to Akutah, Tinubu is not paying lip service to Nigeria’s challenges, but rather laying the groundwork for long-term recovery and growth.

  • M.I Abaga Regrets Backing APC in 2015, Cites Disappointment

    M.I Abaga Regrets Backing APC in 2015, Cites Disappointment

    Nigerian rapper Jude Abaga, known professionally as M.I, has expressed regret over his past support for the All Progressives Congress (APC), admitting the party has failed to meet his expectations.

    Speaking during an episode of the Menism podcast, the artist said he supported the APC during the 2015 general elections because he believed the then-ruling People’s Democratic Party (PDP) was plagued by corruption.

    “At that time, I felt that the PDP government was very corrupt,” he said. “I was part of the people who lifted my voice to say, ‘Let us stand and bring in democracy.’”

    However, M.I acknowledged that his hopes for the APC have not materialized. “APC unfortunately isn’t the APC of my dreams,” he said, noting that the party has not lived up to its promises.

    He made the remarks in response to backlash he received after commenting on attacks by suspected herdsmen in Benue State. Critics reminded him of his past political stance.

    “I tweeted about the thing that happened in Benue and a lot of people were saying, ‘But M.I, you supported the APC,’” he recalled.

    Reflecting on his political involvement, M.I said, “As human beings, no matter how much you try to be right, you will be wrong sometimes.”

    The rapper emphasized that he is now more focused on using his platform to work with young Nigerians to build a better future for the country.

    M.I, widely regarded as one of Africa’s most influential hip-hop artists, rose to prominence in the mid-2000s and has often used his music and voice to engage in socio-political discourse.

  • Sowore Slams FG Over Nnamdi Kanu’s Illegal Rendition

    Sowore Slams FG Over Nnamdi Kanu’s Illegal Rendition

    Omoyele Sowore

    Activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, has criticized the Nigerian government over the 2021 transfer of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Nnamdi Kanu, from Kenya to Nigeria, following a Kenyan court ruling that declared the action illegal.

    The High Court of Kenya recently ruled that Kanu’s arrest and extradition were unlawful and constituted a violation of his fundamental human rights. The court awarded him 10 million Kenyan shillings (approximately ₦119.6 million) in compensatory damages.

    Reacting to the judgment, Sowore condemned both the former administration of President Muhammadu Buhari and the current government led by President Bola Tinubu for what he described as a continued violation of Kanu’s rights.

    In a post on his official Facebook page, Sowore said, “An unjust and criminal act of brigandage by the Muhammadu Buhari regime but continued by the Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu regime.”

    He argued that the rendition was not only illegal but also highlighted a broader pattern of disregard for due process and international legal norms by Nigerian authorities.

    The court’s ruling marks a significant development in Kanu’s long-standing legal and political battle, which has drawn widespread attention both locally and internationally.

    Kanu, who faces charges related to treason and terrorism in Nigeria, has been held in custody since his return from Kenya in June 2021, under circumstances that have now been deemed unlawful by the Kenyan judiciary.

    The Nigerian government has not officially responded to the Kenyan court ruling as of the time of this report.

  • Fubara Confirms Peace Deal After Meeting With Tinubu, Wike

    Fubara Confirms Peace Deal After Meeting With Tinubu, Wike

    Siminalayi Fubara

    Suspended Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, has expressed hope that peace will return to the state following a reconciliation meeting with President Bola Tinubu and former governor Nyesom Wike.

    The closed-door meeting, held Thursday night at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, was aimed at resolving the ongoing political crisis that has divided Rivers State’s leadership in recent months.

    President Tinubu reportedly brokered a truce between Fubara and Wike, ending a prolonged standoff that had drawn national attention and disrupted governance in the state.

    Speaking to journalists after the meeting, Fubara stressed the importance of unity for the state’s progress. “What we need for the progress of Rivers State is peace,” he said. “By the special grace of God, with the help of Mr. President and the agreement of the state’s leaders, peace has returned to Rivers State.”

    He added that efforts would be made to preserve the outcome of the talks. “We will do everything within our power to ensure that we sustain it this time around,” Fubara said.

    The rift between Fubara and Wike, once political allies, escalated into a full-blown crisis that led to federal intervention earlier this year. President Tinubu had previously suspended Fubara and other key state officials, citing threats to stability.

    The resolution of the conflict marks a significant development in efforts to restore order in the state, with observers hoping the agreement will lead to long-term reconciliation and improved governance.

    While the full details of the agreement were not made public, both parties appeared satisfied with the outcome of the meeting facilitated by the presidency.

    The Rivers State political crisis has been one of the most high-profile intra-party conflicts in recent Nigerian history, drawing concern from political stakeholders nationwide.

    With both sides now pledging to work together, attention is expected to shift back to governance and development efforts in the state.

  • Tiv Youths Urge Tinubu to Address Killings During Nasarawa Visit

    Tiv Youths Urge Tinubu to Address Killings During Nasarawa Visit

    As President Bola Tinubu visits Lafia, Nasarawa State today to commission major infrastructure projects initiated by Governor Abdullahi Sule, the Tiv Youth Organization (TYO) has called for urgent federal intervention over ongoing violence against Tiv communities in the state.
    The appeal was made during a press conference in Lafia on Tuesday by TYO President, Comrade Isaiah Audu, who condemned what he described as continued and unprovoked attacks on Tiv settlements across four local government areas.
    Audu stated that the violence has led to numerous casualties, widespread displacement, and the destruction of farmland, leaving thousands of Tiv residents homeless and in fear.
    He highlighted recent attacks that took place on June 13 and 15 in communities including Dooga Ayande (Doma LGA), Antsa (Keana LGA), Tse Yange (Obi LGA), and Tse Akura (Giza Area Council).
    Victims reportedly killed in the incidents include Mr. Terfa Tswabee, Mr. Sham Kyodo, Zaki Kwaghtagher Ordue, and Teryem Aondo Apav. Several others were injured, with many families forced to flee their ancestral homes.
    “Mr. President, we are calling on you today not just to commission projects, but to commission peace and justice for the Tiv people of Nasarawa State,” Audu said.
    He urged President Tinubu to use the occasion of his visit to engage with security agencies and state authorities to end the violence and hold perpetrators accountable.
    The TYO president emphasized that Tiv people are entitled to the same rights and protections as any other Nigerian group, including the right to live peacefully on their ancestral land.
    “We are Nigerians too. We have the right to live in peace without fear of attacks or displacement,” Audu added.
    The Tiv Youth Organisation’s appeal comes amid rising concern over the security situation in rural Nasarawa, particularly in areas with a high concentration of Tiv residents.