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*Demands expunging of corrupt judges

*Warns Tinubu against folding arms over controversial Supreme Court Rivers State judgment

A Coalition of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) on Monday held a peaceful march in Abuja with a call on the authorities to wade into the alleged politicization of the judiciary in the country.

The protesters who brandished several banners and placards with inscriptions as “Enough of crooked court orders”, “We want independence of the judiciary”, “NJC must act now”, “Save the Nigeria judiciary, the time is now”, and “Corrupt judges must be expunged from the system now” as they marched though the road linking the federal Secretariat complex to the precinct of the court of Appeal to register their grievances on the alleged abuse of the judiciary.

Chief Convener of the Coalition, Comrade Igwe Ude-Umanta who submitted a petition on the issue to the National Judicial council (NJC), singled out the controversial decisions of the courts in Benue and Rivers states as instances where judicial officers have allegedly taken politically motivated decision in breach of laid down rules and regulations.

The protesters frowned at the Benue State Chief Judge, Justice Maurice Ikpambese and Justice M. M Adamu of the Abuja High court who they claimed “by their actions have converted the title of justice to injustice.”

The protesters said it behoves on the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Honourable Justice Kudirat Kekereke-Ekun and the National Judicial council (NJC) to expunge corrupt judges off the Nigerian judiciary in order to restore the integrity of the judiciary.

The coalition is called on President Bola Tinubu and ruling APC leaders to urgently intervene to avoid anarchy in Benue State.

Justifying their claim, they alleged: “How on earth could a Chief Judge of a state flagrantly abuse his office by flouting the state laws and the National Judicial Council (NJC) is quiet? Justice Maurice Ikpambese, the Chief Judge of Benue State unilaterally granted a waiver to petitioners of Local Government Election Tribunal not to pay security deposit, a constitutional prerequisite for any valid petition and he has not been sanctioned.

“On the strength of the refusal of the NJC to punish him, he again violated the Electoral Laws of Benue State when he relocated the Local Government Elections Petition Tribunal to Abuja which is clearly off territorial jurisdiction in clear violation of the Benue State Electoral Law, yet the NJC is just watching.

“In an attempt to protect the constitution of Nigeria and the laws of Benue State, the Attorney General of Benue State approached the Federal High Court sitting in Makurdi which granted an order restraining the Tribunal from sitting anywhere outside Benue State including the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) house Abuja. This order was granted on the 7th of March 2025 to the admiration of Nigerians.

“Surprisingly, on Friday 14th March 2025, an FCT High Court 34 presided by Justice M.M Adamu frivolously issued another order compelling the Benue State Local Government Election Tribunal Tribunal to conduct sitting in Abuja and particularly at the NBA house.

“The question is, can the Benue State laws be applied in the FCT or any other state other than Benue State? if the answer is NO, it is also clear that the Benue State Local Government Election Tribunal can not sit outside Benue State.

“Justice M.M Adamu is a saboteur in the judiciary who has abandoned his oaths of office. Therefore, he is no longer fit to be a judge anywhere in in the world. There is no justice near M.M Adamu for granting an order of Court against the Electoral laws of Benue State.”

Continuing, they noted: “Honourable CJN Ma, under your watch, the Supreme Court descended into live issues in Rivers State and decided a case that is not before it when it held that, Matthew Ameawhule is the Speaker of the House of Assembly while the case is still pending in the High Court and Appeal Court respectively.

“The judgment of the Supreme Court has been criticized by the 11- Man Independent Judicial Accountability panel headed by a retired Justice Mojeed Omoade. As part of its recommendations, the panel held that “politicians should generally avoid undue influence on the judiciary and be more accommodating of each other in the interest of their people.

“It also urged the government at all levels to obey court orders and respect the fundamental rights of citizens in a democracy, decrying that over nine months after the ECOWAS Court awarded damages to victims of the October 2020 End SARS protest, the Federal Government had yet to comply with the judgment.

“We call on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu not to fold his arm as the judiciary is been bastardised on daily bases. Mr President sir, the Benue situation is the worst at the moment because, the petitioners did not even participate in any of the process of the election.

“The petitioners ordinarily have no locus to approach the Tribunal because the Austin Agada led APC executive was dissolved and a Caretaker Committee inaugurated before the Justice Theresa Igoche’s order restraining the National Working Committee of the APC from dissolving the Benue State Executive, was served.”

By Mike Odeh James

The Delta State Chapter of the Unemployed Youths Association of Nigeria (UYAN) has lauded Chief Dr. Dennis Brutu Otuaro on his first anniversary as Administrator of the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), commending his visionary leadership and transformative initiatives.

In a statement, UYAN extolled Dr. Otuaro’s exceptional dedication and the profound impact of his reforms over the past year. “Your ability to navigate the challenges associated with your office is truly commendable,” the statement read. “We appreciate your hard work, strategic insight, and unwavering support to those in need.”

Dr. Otuaro, a distinguished Niger Delta activist and scholar, was appointed as PAP Administrator in March 2024. His tenure has been marked by significant reforms aimed at enhancing the programme and fostering development in the Niger Delta region. Prior to his appointment, he earned a PhD in Comparative Politics and Development Studies from the University of Benin in November 2023, underscoring his commitment to the region’s advancement.

Under Dr. Otuaro’s leadership, PAP has experienced growth, innovation, and positive change. His grassroots approach and deep understanding of the Niger Delta’s challenges have been pivotal in steering the programme toward meaningful impact. He has reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring sustainable peace and security in the Niger Delta, focusing on economic empowerment and human capital development in the region.

In like manner, UYAN has been proactive in supporting vulnerable individuals. As most recently in December 2024, the association distributed palliatives worth millions of naira to less privileged persons in Warri, demonstrating their commitment to community welfare and social responsibility.

As Dr. Otuaro marks this significant milestone, UYAN joins all well-meaning Nigerians in celebrating his achievements and anticipates further advancements in PAP under his visionary leadership.

Dabiki Dangwa
It has been reliably gathered that Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, has distributed a total of 50 million naira to former governors and deputy governors of the state in the spirit of Ramadan

The Secretary to Government of Zamfara State (SSG) Abubakar Nakwada was quoted to have disclosed this  in an informal discussion said, former Governor Ahmed Rufai Sani Bakura received N15 million, while former Governor Mahmud Aliyu Shinkafi was also given N15 million. Additionally, former deputy governors, Muktar Ahmed Anka and Ibrahim Wakala Muhammad, each received N10 million.

However, sources suggest that the payments were made with the aim of garnering political support, particularly from opposition figures.

Although the distribution has sparked criticism from residents, especially considering the widespread poverty and hunger in Zamfara State.

Many are particularly surprised that former Governor Bakura, who played a key role in the introduction of Sharia law in Zamfara and Nigeria, would accept such a sum in a time of hardship.

Some of the resident recalled that former Governor Bakura amputated a man convicted of stealing and now he is receiving money he never worked for which is equal to stealing and should be subjected to same treatment.

Some residents, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, criticized the Governor for what they saw as a misuse of public funds in the pursuit of his own political ambitions.

“Those claiming to be in other political parties are undermining their integrity by accepting such payments. They have shown they cannot be trusted,” one resident remarked.

Another resident expressed disbelief over Bakura’s involvement, saying, “It’s shocking that former Governor Bakura, who introduced Sharia in Zamfara and Nigeria, would accept money when the people of the state are suffering from extreme poverty and hunger.”

Some of the residents claimed that this is against Sharia law and the beneficiaries should be subjected to the law accordingly.

The SSG Nakwada disbursed the money to the former Governors and deputy Governors in conjunction with the State Commissioner for Budget, Abdulmalik Gajam, who is also a son inlaw to former Governor Bakura.

The Commissioner of Budget it was further gathered confirmed the transactions in yet another informal gathering.

ENDS

President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio risk jail for disobeying an order of the Court as Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan commenced her contempt proceedings against the Senate.

The Form 48 was issued by the Federal High Court in the Abuja Judicial Division holden at Abuja in suit No: FHC/ABJ/CS/384/2025 between Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan and the Clerk of the National Assembly, The Senate, The President of the Senate and the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Code of Conduct, Senator Neda Imasuem as 1st. 2nd. 3rd and 4th Defendants and Contemnors.

In a notice of disobedience of Court Order signed by the Registrar of the Court pursuant to Section 72 of the Sheriff and Civil Process Act 2004 and notice of Consequences of Disobedience of Order of the Court made on 4th March, 2025, the Court urged the Defendants/Contemnors to take notice of their wilful disobedience of the Order of the Court given by Justice Justice O.A. Egwuatu J, made on 4th day of March 2025.

The Court said the disobedience rendered Akpabio, Senator Imasuem and the Clerk of the National Assembly liable for contempt of court, for which they may be committed to prison unless they comply with the said order.

The Court said that despite being duly served with the enrolled order on the 5th Day of March 2025, the Defendants/Contemnors, deliberately and contumaciously disregarded its binding directive, and proceeded with acts in flagrant defiance of the authority of the Court.

Part of the Form 48 states; “NOTICE OF CONSEQUENCES OF DISOBEDIENCE OF ORDER OF COURT MADE ON 4TH MARCH, 2025.

“TAKE NOTICE that pursuant to Section 72 of the Sheriffs and Civil Processes Act, your wilful disobedience of the order of this Honourable Court, Coram: Hon. Justice O.A. Egwuatu J, made on 4th day of March 2025, renders you liable for contempt of court, for which you may be committed to prison unless you comply with the said order.

“TAKE FURTHER NOTICE that despite being duly served with the enrolled order on the 5th Day of March 2025, you, the Defendants/Contemnors, have deliberately and contumaciously disregarded its binding directive, proceeding with acts in flagrant defiance of the authority of this Honourable Court. A copy of the said order is annexed hereto for ease of reference.

The Court in an enrolled Order upon a Motion Exparte dated 28th February, 2025 but filed on the 3rd day of March, 2025 coming before the Honourable Court on the 4th day of March, 2025, prayed for the following reliefs: AN ORDER OF THIS HONOURABLE COURT granting leave to the Plaintiff/Applicant to serve the 2nd Defendant/Respondents with the Originating Summons and all other accompanying Processes on this Suit by substituted means to wit: by serving same through the 1st Defendant; Clerk of the National Assembly or Pasting same on the Premises of the National Assembly or by publishing same on two national dailies.

“AN ORDER OF THIS HONOURABLE COURT granting an Interim Injunction restraining the 2nd Defendant/Defendant’s Committee on Ethics, Privileges and Code of Conduct headed by the 4th Defendant from proceeding with the purported investigation against the Plaintiff/Applicant for alleged misconduct sequel to the events that occurred at the plenary of the 2nd Defendant on the 20th day of February, 2025, pursuant to the referral by the 2nd Defendant on 25th February, 2025 pending the hearing and determination of the Motion on Notice for interlocutory injunction.

“AN ORDER OF THIS HONOURABLE COURT directing the 1st -4th Defendants to come and show cause; why an order of interlocutory injunction should not be granted against them restraining them from proceeding with purported investigation against the Plaintiff for alleged misconduct without affecting her privileges as stipulated in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (As Amended), the Senate Standing Order 2023 and the Legislative Houses (Powers and Privileges) Act.

“AN ORDER OF THIS HONOURABLE COURT declaring that any action taken during the pendency of this Suit is null, void and of no effect whatsoever among others.”

By kunle Ganiyu

In commemoration of the International Women Day (IWD) celebration, Halhad Foundation has donated food items worth millions of naira to pregnant women and children.

The event which took at the Primary Healthcare in masaka, Karu local government area of Nasarawa state witnessed over 40 pregnant women in participants.

Speaking during the event, the Chief Executive Officer and founder of the Halhad Foundation, Ambassador Halima Hadi said ” every mother deserves to work into motherhood with confidence not fear.

” Motherhood is a journey of strength, sacrifice and love yet too many women face it without the support they deserves.

She noted that the foundation inspires women inclusion, empowers mothers and accelerate action.

Ambassador Hadi stressed that the foundation stood with women ensuring that they feel seen,valued and never alone.

She said ” over 100 expectant mothers benefitted from our outreach receiving maternal health lectures from Dr. Fatima, a gynecologist and a public health practitioner, Simeon Samuel encouraging them to engage in fitness exercises and receiving essentials health kits, foods supplies and new born gifts. “

Less than 24 hours after the former lawmaker, who represented Kaduna Central Senatorial District,Senator Shehu openly declared support for Governor Uba’s reelection bid, the former Kaduna Governor, Mal. Nasir Elrufai out of alleged fears of the unknown,officially dumped the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the Social Democratic Party(SDP).

Information gathered revealed that the return of Shehu Sani and other prominent politicians in the State such as Senator Suleiman Hunkuyi; Senator Danjuma Laah , Former Governor Ramalan Yero and others to APC recently unsettled the Elrufai.

Shehu Sani had said his major political interest in 2027 is to see Governor Uba Sani reelected as Kaduna State governor.

Unwilling to face the heat, Elrufai in a Facebook Post today formerly resigned from APC.

He declared: “Today, 10th March 2025, I have submitted a letter resigning my membership of the APC to my ward in Kaduna, effective immediately. Prior to this step, I had concluded consultations with my mentors, colleagues and loyalists across the country about the future. I have now decided to join the Social Democratic Party (SDP), and adopt it as the platform for our future political engagements and activities.

“Without prejudice to this decision, as a member of the SDP, I will focus on engaging with and persuading other opposition leaders and parties to join us and congregate under a unified democratic platform to challenge the APC in all elections and bye-elections between now and 2027 by the Grace of God.

“I therefore call on all our supporters and other persons concerned about our country’s future to join us in the SDP in the journey towards making Nigeria flourish as a beacon of pride for Africans and the Black Race.”

Meanwhile,in a reaction via telephone call , Shehu Sani said leaving APC for SDP wouldn’t make any difference for someone with no political relevance again. But one thing is sure , President Bola Ahmed Tinubu And Governor Uba Sani will be voted again.

By Maro Kura

The Arewa Youth Assembly for Good Leadership (AYAGL) has accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of exhibiting bias against Northern Senators, following the recent suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. The group has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene, urging Akpabio to recall Akpoti-Uduaghan within 48 hours or face widespread protests across Northern Nigeria.

Speaking at a press conference in Kaduna, AYAGL Speaker Ambassador Abdul Danbature expressed concerns over Akpabio’s leadership, stating that the suspension of Akpoti-Uduaghan reinforces their belief that the Senate President is acting against the interests of the Northern region.

Danbature questioned the grounds for Akpoti-Uduaghan’s six-month suspension, her reassignment within the Senate, and her removal as Chair of the Senate Committee on Local Content. He also highlighted the blocking of a motion she moved regarding the NLNG gas pipeline project to Northern Nigeria, suggesting these actions indicate a pattern of marginalization.

The AYAGL emphasized that without the support of Northern Senators, Akpabio would not have ascended to his current position and warned against the victimization of Northern representatives. They called on leaders from both the Northern and Southern regions to address this issue in the interest of national unity and peace.

The group threatened to occupy the National Assembly Complex and block major roads across the 19 Northern states and the Federal Capital Territory if their demands are not met within the stipulated timeframe. They also urged President Tinubu to intervene, expressing concerns that Akpabio’s actions might have higher approval.

In a cautionary note, the AYAGL reminded Akpabio of the transient nature of power and advised him to treat his colleagues with fairness and equity.

ENDS

By Emmanuel Okonkwo

Kaduna, Nigeria – The Christian Media Forum (CMF) has called on the National President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Archbishop Daniel Okoh, to urgently intervene in the prolonged leadership crisis affecting the Christian community in the 19 northern states.

In a statement released in Kaduna and signed by its Secretary, Andrew Ibrahim Mshelia, the CMF expressed deep concern over the ongoing leadership tussle between Rev. Pam and Rev. Joseph Hayab, both of whom claim legitimate leadership of the Christian body. The group lamented that the crisis has led to confusion, division, and embarrassment within the Christian community.

Call for Peace and Unity

The CMF urged both factions to put aside their differences and seek reconciliation, emphasizing that the Christian faith should exemplify peace, love, and unity.

“We urge the warring factions to sheathe their swords and give peace a chance. It is our firm belief that the Christian community should be a beacon of hope, love, and unity, rather than a symbol of division and strife,” the statement read.

The group further highlighted its commitment to promoting peace and stability within the Christian community, stressing that the ongoing dispute has negatively impacted the reputation of the Church and CAN as a whole.

Biblical Call for Harmony

Citing 1 Peter 3:8, which urges Christians to live in harmony, be compassionate, and love one another, the CMF called on the feuding leaders to embrace biblical principles and work towards a peaceful resolution.

“As Christians, we are called to live in peace and harmony. The Bible teaches us to ‘live in harmony with one another; be sympathetic, love as brothers, be compassionate and humble.’ We urge all parties involved to uphold these principles and seek an amicable resolution,” the group stated.

Appeal to CAN President

The CMF expressed confidence in Archbishop Okoh’s ability to mediate in the dispute, urging him to use his office to bring the warring factions together for dialogue and reconciliation.

“We appeal to Archbishop Okoh to use his good offices to facilitate a peaceful resolution. His intervention is crucial to restoring peace and unity within the Christian community in northern Nigeria,” the statement continued.

The group also called on the opposing factions to approach mediation with open hearts, stressing that a peaceful resolution is achievable if all parties prioritize unity over personal interests.

Hope for Resolution

As the CMF awaits Archbishop Okoh’s response, the organization remains hopeful that wisdom and divine guidance will lead to a resolution of the crisis.

“We pray that God will grant us wisdom, courage, and strength to work towards a peaceful resolution. With God’s guidance, we believe the Christian community can overcome this challenge and emerge stronger and more united than ever before,” the CMF affirmed.

In conclusion, the forum reiterated its plea for intervention, emphasizing the need to restore peace and unity among Christian leaders in northern Nigeria.

“We are confident that Archbishop Okoh’s intervention will bring an end to this crisis and help rebuild trust within the Christian community,” the statement concluded.

…Vows to Join Akpabio’s wife in Legal battle

Group under aegis of Northern Democratic Alliance (NDA) has condemned what it termed , Unfounded sexual harassment allegation against the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio by Senator Natasha Akpoti Uduaghan.

The Senator representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, Senator Natasha Akpoti who protested the relocation of her seat accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of persistent harassment, victimization, and blocking her legislative efforts because she rejected his alleged inappropriate advances.

Natasha, who made the claim while speaking on Arise Television’s Morning Show on Friday, detailed what she described as a troubling pattern of professional sabotage and personal intimidation — a fallout, she claimed, of her refusal to engage in an improper relationship with Akpabio.

However,in a reaction to Senator Natasha Apoti”s claim of sexual harassment, the Northern Democratic Alliance condemned the attacks on the Senate President.Saying her face-off with Senator Akpabio is unwarranted, unprovoked and shouldn’t have come from a family friend of the Senate President.

The statement reads: “We have known the Senate President since he was Governor of Akwa Ibom to his days as minister and now Senate President, and can authoritatively tell you that he’s a man who lots of respect for women .

“So , when we heard about Senator Natasha accusations, especially that of sexual harassment,it didn’t add up for us .

“The good people of Akwa Ibom,the wife of the Senate President and members of the National Assembly can also attest to fact that he’s only a cheerful personality,but a seasoned administrator who understands the implications of such act of irresponsibility while holding public office.

“It against this background that we have come to condemn Senator Natasha unsubstantiated claim of sexual harassment and victimization.”

” After careful study of the whole saga ,we have decided to join Senator Akpabio’s wife in court in legal battle against Senator , Natasha who has no evidence to prove her claim.”