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Presidency: El-Rufai, Opposition No Threat to Tinubu’s Leadership

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The attack on President Bola Tinubu by Nasir El-Rufai, the former governor of Kaduna State, has been declared ineffective by the Presidency.
In an interview with TVC on Thursday, Daniel Bwala, the President’s Special Adviser on Media and Policy Communication, reportedly made this statement.
According to him, the nation’s opposition political groups lack direction. The All Progressives Congress (APC) is the only structured political party in Nigeria, he claims.
There is no direction for the political opponent. The APC is the only structured political party in Nigeria. Nearly the whole opposition party, in other words, is attempting to figure things out.I refrain from attacking because I perceive that Mr. President has a reconciliatory tendency. As you can see, he has not reacted to anyone in the more than eighteen months that he has been in office. No one has ever witnessed him acting aggressively or combatively. According to his approach to politics and administration, almost 90 to 97 percent of those in his immediate vicinity today have previously worked against him.

“I was with him, but I had to return after I parted ways with him. That is his personality. This combat stuff is not something that the president believes in. El-Rufai, as he previously stated, is still a member of the APC. He remarked, “So, you speak to him like a brother.”

It’s Grandstanding, El-Rufai
Bwala claimed that El-Rufai was merely displaying his grandstanding by attacking Tinubu, Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, and National Security Advisor Nuhu Ribadu.

He appears to be struggling to find a part, and I am aware that he is grandstanding. You have words and believe you can carry out a purpose, for example, if you quit a ruling party that you have influenced. To be able to do that, you must have a functioning location. He picks up one person on Twitter nearly every other day, I mean.

The national security adviser had the opportunity to speak yesterday. After that, it was the incumbent governor’s and the others’ turn. I think he’s still valuable in APC, therefore I spoke to him like a big brother. We do not need to be confrontational, but he lacks the ability to disturb the President and make any changes to the opposition and others. The President cannot get uneasy due to any resistance, either in its entirety or in its component parts.

Opposition Is Not Disrupted by APC
Speaking, the President’s Policy Communication Adviser denied the claim that the ruling government was using financial pressure to stifle the opposition.

Which APC member belongs to those groups? It takes sensitivity to recognize when you are no longer valuable. That is the situation with PDP. You can no longer use it. “It is now a congregation and conglomeration of people without a clear direction,” he said.

Bwala stated that the opposition ought to applaud the president for appointing an opposition party member, Nyesom Wike, as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), to his administration.

“Wike has never been an APC member. He’s repeated it repeatedly. He is a PDP member. He has also stated that he has stock in the PDP. He claimed that because he has sponsored numerous PDP events, he cannot let his goodwill to simply evaporate. Thus, he is defending his rights.

He is fundamentally entitled to defend his rights. The president isn’t specifically telling people to leave your party, either. because we are in charge of governance. As a result, the president is unable to cease working with him due to an issue inside his party. Like Abraham Lincoln, the president conducts his business.

“He is defending the nationwide consensus.” Because of this, it is dishonest to criticize the president when you ought to commend him for cooperating with everyone. Their issue with the political party did not begin when the president took office. “That began a long time ago,” he said.

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There is no coalition that can oppose the president.
Additionally, he rejected the alleged alliance of prominent political figures against the President. There would be no coalition, he said.

“In fact,” he added, “let me tell you. They would not even run on the PDP platform, notwithstanding the coalition they are referring to. Do you get it?

For this reason, we say it is no longer useful. They are congregating, they want to move, and they want to visit a new political party at the most convenient location. Because they are merely observing this person and asking, “Are you coming as a new phenomenon?” the Nigerians are not sleeping. Or is it the assembly of ex-political figures who are ravenous, like someone who is addicted to drugs, and you are suddenly attempting to help him stop using drugs? He will experience discomfort and a variety of other symptoms as soon as he begins this withdrawal. That’s what’s taking place.

The phenomenon of power withdrawal. What’s happening to them is that. In general, though, you have to be open-minded to discover how you may reinvent yourself. You must observe your rise to relevance. Additionally, there will come a point in your life when you realize you must move on from politics.

Perhaps God does not want you to receive this, or perhaps this is not what God wants you to receive. It is not about Nigerians that they are assembling. The purpose of the gathering is to retake power. It’s not an event aimed toward Nigerians.

“If there is a gathering, the Nigerian people should be applauding the president for policies that are influencing the country’s transformation. Additionally, what are they expected to provide if they believe the President is acting improperly? An alternative. Does the alternative matter to them? I mean, they use Nigeria’s suffering and suffering as a talking point.

Their weapon is Nigeria’s suffering and suffering. They use the plight of the Nigerian people as a political weapon. You see, though, I’ve always declined to answer political questions. When the moment comes, we shall be prepared for them. Our attention is now on what we are doing to fulfill the President’s pledge to the Nigerian people.

We are grateful that these developments are starting to manifest in all facets of our country’s life. Right now, that’s what makes us happy.

 

Arewa Youths Raise Alarm Over Alleged Plot By Amaechi, 3 Others to Destabilize Tinubu’s Administration

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The Reformed Arewa Youth Council of Nigeria (RAYCN) has raised concerns over an alleged plot by Rotimi Amaechi, Attahiru Bafarawa, and Sani Abdullahi Shinkafi to destabilise President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

At a press conference on Thursday, the group claimed that the trio is working together with foreign elements and other national and international disgruntled elements to replicate the undemocratic overthrow of democratically elected authorities in parts of the sub-region.

The alleged plot is said to involve the stockpiling of sophisticated firearms, covert actions, and massive protests across the North West, starting from Bafarawa’s village and spreading to Sokoto, Zamfara, and other states.

National President, Bilal Abdulahi, also claimed that Amaechi is providing resources for Bafarawa, who is in turn funding and mobilising Shinkafi to run a campaign of calumny against the administration.
He added: “It is clear that their intention and their several meetings is aimed at intimidating the government President Tinubu, and the various organs of government and make the citizens feel that the government and her various organs are not doing sufficient enough to take the people to prosperity.

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“This is a matter of utmost state security concern. Its propensity and devastation can be better imagined. The country and indeed national security is under serious threat by the activities of these marauding tripartite, and we cannot fold our arms until we are submerged or over awe by their evil machination and subterfuge. ”
The Reformed Arewa Youth Council of Nigeria called on security agencies to investigate the matter immediately and take decisive action against the alleged plotters.

The group also urged youths, religious organisations, and lovers of peace and democracy to stand against the alleged plot and support President Tinubu’s administration in its efforts to reform the country.

Abdulahi said: “This is nothing short of an attempt to overawe and possibly topple a Democratic institution, it is a treasonable felony and must be resisted with all necessary state powers.

“It is clear that ever since their shameful and incontrovertible defeat at the polls by President Bola Tinubu, these three elements have not hidden their hate and disdain but for the person and organs of the various governments.
“It is however unfortunate that this hatred and disdain is pushing them to act against the office of the President and Commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces and becoming direct threat to our democracy and the rule of law. The must consequently be stopped with all might and not be allowed to go further, as this will serve as deterrence.”

Breaking: Ex-NYSC Boss Abducted by Bandits in Katsina

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Brig. Gen. Maharazu Tsiga (retd.), the former Director General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), has reportedly been abducted by armed bandits.
In the early hours of Thursday, Tsiga was reportedly kidnapped during an attack in Tsiga village, Bakori Local Government Area, Katsina State.
Along with rifling through multiple residences and removing belongings, the attackers also killed one individual and kidnapped at least nine others.

Read Also: Breaking: Anambra Mourns as Kidnapped Lawmaker Justice Azuka Found Dead

Eyewitnesses told that the bandits broke into the neighborhood around 12:30 in the morning and opened fire randomly to terrorize the locals and stop them from resisting.
DSP Abubakar Sadiq, the public relations officer for Katsina State Police, answered via SMS that he “can’t talk now,” therefore attempts to get confirmation of the occurrence were futile.

An inquiry and potential rescue attempt for the kidnapped individuals are anticipated to be initiated by security officials.

Breaking: Anambra Mourns as Kidnapped Lawmaker Justice Azuka Found Dead

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At the 2nd Niger Bridge, a combined security squad discovered the decaying body of Hon. Justice Azuka, a member of the Anambra State House of Assembly.
According to reports, Azuka was kidnapped by gunmen on Tuesday, December 24, 2024, while he was making his way home on Ugwunaobankpa Road in Inland Town, Onitsha.
Following a court decision that removed Hon. Douglas Egbuna of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the previous victor, who had been proclaimed the victor of the 2023 election, the kidnapped legislator, a leader of the Labour Party (LP), had reclaimed his mandate.
Unfortunately, a few days after the court decision, Azuka was abducted at gunpoint on Ugwunaobankpa Road in a quick operation that took less than five minutes.

According to a security source who told SaharaReporters that the lawmaker’s body had been found, the criminals were apprehended on Wednesday evening and the agents were brought to the location where the body had been left.

“We have apprehended the individuals responsible for his kidnapping and death,” the source stated. After being taken into custody late on Wednesday night, they went to show the security guards where the body had been disposed of.

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It’s depressing and tragic. What a devastating loss. May his kind spirit rest in eternal peace. “Amen.” Dr. Alfred Achebe, the Obi of Onitsha, his family, and the entire population of Onitsha North Constituency 1 have our deepest sympathies and sorrow.

Along Awka Road in the heart of Onitsha, kidnappers had a field day two nights ago on Tuesday. During an attempted abduction, they fired multiple gunshots.

The Anambra State Police Command spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, had not yet commented on the most recent development as of the time this article was filed.

Nigeria Customs Enforces 4% FOB Charge on Goods

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The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced the implementation of a 4% fee on the Free On-Board (FOB) value of imports.
According to reports, the service’s spokesperson, Abdullahi Maiwada, confirmed this development in a statement released to journalists in Abuja on Wednesday.
Maiwada stated that this endeavor is consistent with the provisions outlined in the Nigeria Customs Service Act (NCSA) 2023.

According to Section 18 (1) of the NCSA 2023, the NCS intends to impose a 4% fee on the FOB value of imported products.

This FOB price is calculated by the total value of the imported commodities, which includes both the cost of the goods and the transportation costs incurred up to the loading port, and is critical to the service’s efficient operation.

Furthermore, the NCS appreciates stakeholders’ concerns about the continuous collection of the 1 percent Comprehensive Import Supervision Scheme (CISS) fee.

“It is a regulation charge imposed to pay Nigeria’s Destination Inspection Scheme, in addition to the 4% FOB levy.

“As a responsive government agency, the service wishes to assure the general public that extensive consultation is ongoing with the Federal Ministry of Finance to address all agitations raised by our esteemed stakeholders,” Maiwada clarified.

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He asked all parties to follow the directive, which was developed through significant consultation with key stakeholders and organisations.

“All parties are strongly encouraged to support this legally enforceable proposal.

“As the measures introduced in alignment with the NCSA 2023 reflects a balanced approach born out of extensive consultations with industry players, importers, and regulatory bodies,” he said, noting stakeholders’ vital contributions to creating and implementing the NCSA 2023.

Their contributions of insights, skills, and unwavering dedication have been critical in developing a robust legal framework that enhances efficiency, fosters innovation, and increases transparency in customs operations.

Maiwada stressed that the service, led by Comptroller-General Adewale Adeniyi, is committed to ensuring openness, equitable trading practices, and effective revenue management.

Reps Committee Pushes for Nnamdi Kanu’s Freedom, Links It to Regional Stability

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The leader of the outlawed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, has been called for to be released by the House of Representatives’ committee on the South East Development Commission (SEDC).

The proposal was made by the committee’s chairman, Chris Nkwonta, before the national assembly on Wednesday at the panel’s first meeting.

“The committee and other well-meaning Nigerians urge the president to facilitate Nnamdi Kanu’s release as a step towards lasting peace and development in the region, given the security concerns in the region,” he added.

Read Also: Tragedy in Zamfara: 17 Almajiri Students Killed in School Fire

The chairman of the committee expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for signing the legislation establishing the SEDC, stating that it will “drive meaningful development” in the area.
Since his extradition from Kenya in June 2021, the IPOB leader has been held by the Department of State Services (DSS).

He is being charged with terrorism.

Demands for Kanu’s release have been increasing, especially from those involved in the southeast.

Fifty members of the House of Representatives requested that Tinubu issue an order for Kanu’s release in June 2024.

The green chamber’s minority caucus called for Kanu’s release that same month.

The South-East Governors’ Forum, which is made up of governors, decided on July 2 to meet with Tinubu in order to request the separatist leader’s release.

Lateef Fagbemi, the federation’s attorney general and minister of justice, met with senators from the geographical region on July 3 to discuss the IPOB leader’s release.

Tragedy in Zamfara: 17 Almajiri Students Killed in School Fire

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An Almajiri school in Kauran Namoda, Zamfara State, suffered a terrible fire breakout on Tuesday night that claimed the lives of no fewer than 17 children.
Security analyst Zagazola Makama was told by intelligence sources that the fire burned for around three hours before it was ultimately contained.
Other pupils suffered injuries of various severity and are currently being treated at local hospitals.

Attempts to contain the fire were hindered by its quick spread, and witnesses characterized the fire’s ferocity as overwhelming.

It was an awful sight. We made an effort to save as many pupils as we could, but the fire was too powerful,” a local who helped with the rescue operations stated.

Despite the arrival of rescue personnel and local officials, significant casualties had already been reported by the time the fire was put out.

Read Also: Super Eagles’ FIFA World Cup Qualifier Dates vs. Rwanda, Zimbabwe Released

MRS Filling Station beside Explosion Rocks Near the International Airport
Other headlines On Tuesday, a huge explosion caused an MRS filling station near Yola International Airport in Adamawa State to catch fire.

According to reports, the explosion happened when a fuel tanker was discharging fuel at the station, with attendants present, and multiple injuries are suspected.

The fire is still spreading across the station and surrounding areas, making it difficult to get to and from the state capital.

Super Eagles’ FIFA World Cup Qualifier Dates vs. Rwanda, Zimbabwe Released

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For the Super Eagles of Nigeria, the Confederation of Africa Football (CAF) has revealed the schedule for the first two of the six remaining 2026 World Cup qualification games.
The Super Eagles will play a home game against Zimbabwe on March 24 after playing an away game against Rwanda on March 17. Under the direction of new head coach Éric Chelle, the team is entering a critical phase.
The Super Eagles have played Rwanda twice in the 2025 AFCON qualifiers, thus they are familiar with both opponents. Rwanda defeated Nigeria 2-1 in Uyo in November after playing to a goalless draw in September of last year.

Zimbabwe had previously hosted Nigeria in the qualifying series, where they drew 1-1 in a difficult match in November.

With four games played, the Super Eagles are now in fifth place with three points, four points behind leaders Rwanda, and six games remaining in the qualifying series.

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Securing a spot in the 2026 World Cup is Coach Chelle’s foremost aim, despite his awareness of the task that lies ahead. When Nigeria’s World Cup qualifying campaign resumes in March, Chelle, who took over as head coach a few weeks ago, is intent on turning things around. She is also getting ready for the AFCON tournament in December.

“The March games and the players are my top priorities. The World Cup qualifying tournament must come first. Only then can we turn our focus to the AFCON in October. It is imperative that we win these two games in March,” Chelle said following the most recent AFCON draw in Morocco.

South Africa Calls for Mineral Sanctions Against Trump

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Gwede Mantashe, South Africa’s Minister of Mineral Resources, has urged African countries to punish President Donald Trump for his threat of budget cuts.

President Trump reportedly stopped providing any funding to South Africa because of the country’s Exploration Act.
Mantashe reminded Africa that the development of the United States and the rest of the world depends on the continent’s natural riches.

In response to Trump’s threat of budget cuts, the South African Minister of Mineral Resources said as much on Tuesday.

On Tuesday, Newzroom Afrika, a South African company, shared the interview on its X handle.

“With the constant threat that, yes, because you passed an exploration act, Trump will withhold funding to South Africa,” he said. Instead of immobilizing Africa, I suggested that the United States be denied access to minerals. It’s that simple.

We should refuse to give them minerals if they do not give us money. However, the truth is that they steal our minerals while claiming that we are wasting money. No, minerals are found on the continent. We have something that we have as a result.

“We must simply use that endowment for the benefit of our continent; we are not merely beggars.” However, if we as a continent are terrified and fear everything, we will collapse and minerals will be at our doorstep. Africa is the richest mining jurisdiction in the world, so I’m appealing to that. And we need to embrace that problem as a continent and make the most of it.

UNILORIN Student Takes Own Life Amid ‘Economic Hardship

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According to reports, financial troubles are the reason behind the suicide of a male student in his second year at the University of Ilorin (UNILORIN) in Kwara State.
According to information obtained, the dead student had a cumulative grade point average of 4.5 in the Mass Communication Department before his untimely death.
In Ilorin, the state capital, the event allegedly took place at his private home in the Tanke community’s Oke-Odo neighborhood.

According to Channels Television, the student’s financial difficulties were the reason behind his suicide, according to insiders in the campus community.

It was also disclosed that the youngster had lost his father a number of years prior, and that his mother, a retired educator, had taken on the financial burden of his schooling ever since.

When the deceased returned to school last year, he began to have financial troubles. He was a student at the Faculty of Communication and Information Sciences (CIS). This led to his classmates collecting money to help pay for his tuition and buy him food.

However, it was said that last weekend, just after his roommate left for class, the student decided to consume a poison. In a note to his roommate, he said that he had made the decision because he was unable to handle his financial difficulties.

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When his roommate realized the predicament after returning from lectures, he sounded the alarm.

Reporters in Ilorin were informed of the incident on Tuesday by a top administrative official from the institution who asked not to be named.

He described the incident as stunning and said that it had left the students and university community in a state of sadness.