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Any patriotic Nigerian would be bothered by the pensive mien of the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, as he addressed a gathering of legal eggheads, including the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, at the Supreme Court complex in Abuja on Monday. His low and shaky voice betrayed the weight of the embarrassment he felt from the shame and disgrace some lawyers have brought to the bar in recent times.

‘It is for this reason that my office has now taken the unusual step of verifying the authenticity of this and other complaints with a view to referring them to the appropriate disciplinary bodies,’ he said. The AGF was referring to a recent incident involving the alleged inglorious bid by flamboyant lawyer, rights activist and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Chief Mike Ozekhome, to take possession of a London property belonging to the late former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Lt-Gen. Jeremiah Useni.

As the story goes, the property, House 79 Randall Avenue, London NW2, was purchased by Useni in 1993, using the name ‘Tali Shani’. But following his death in January this year, Ozekhome moved to take ownership of the property and, in the process, got himself entangled in a messy case that bordered on forgery, impersonation, corruption and conspiracy.

Trouble began when Ozekhome sought to register the said property, which he claimed was transferred to him by the owner, ‘Mr Tali Shani’, in August 2021 as a gift and out of gratitude for the many legal services he (Ozekhome) had rendered to him in the past. Unfortunately for the SAN, another ‘Tali Shani’, a female, represented by her solicitors at the London tribunal, had also laid claim to the property.

Thus began a legal battle with claims and counter-claims that exposed both parties as nothing but two bands of impostors desirous of reaping where they did not sow. ‘The final outcome of this case, therefore, is that both parties have failed. Neither ‘Tali Shani’ was who they said they were. The real owner, via a false name, was General Jeremiah Useni,’ the judge declared, leaving the activist lawyer and his rival crestfallen.

Of course, any well-meaning Nigerian would be disappointed with what transpired at the London tribunal, but only a few would be surprised, knowing that the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), the umbrella body of lawyers to which Ozekhome belongs, has hardly conducted itself in a more dignifying way in recent times. Put more succinctly, its public conduct in recent times has fallen far short of the expectations of patriotic Nigerians.

A few months ago, the body was up in arms against Ibok Ete Ibas, the administrator appointed for Rivers State in the aftermath of the state of emergency declared by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for daring to complain that it collected a whopping N300 million from the state government but failed to honour an agreement that its annual national conference would be held in the state. Instead, the conference was moved to Enugu State, where another huge sum must have changed hands.

Rather than show remorse for what was an obvious act of betrayal, the body brazenly declared that the money in question was a gift from the Rivers State Government and not something concomitant on any form of obligation! The situation has caused many to wonder what would be left for governance if every professional body becomes a recipient of such gifts.

Sadly, the NBA thinks nothing of the aforementioned scandals, but was quick to demand a probe into Ibas’ tenure as the administrator of Rivers State as well as the recent Afriland fire outbreak that claimed some lives in Lagos recently.

On the basis of its antics, the only reason the NBA has not been tagged a political party is that it is yet to officially register as one. Every of its gathering is laced with campaign, especially against the administration of President Tinubu as was witnessed during its recent conference in Enugu where, in a partisan theatrics, Channels Television presenter Seun Okinbaloye led the lawyers in an open ridicule of the President and his government. It was a repeat of the caricature they made of Vice President Kashim Shettima as the running mate of Tinubu and guest at their annual conference in the build-up to the presidential election in 2023.

Law, it must be said, is nothing but an assemblage of moral values and the consequences for their violation arranged in sections and sub-sections. Without ethics, it is nothing better than a car without an engine. That, unfortunately, is the lot of Nigeria with NBA’s scant regard for morality. It would not be a surprise if the people charged with designing the academic curricular of universities and law schools are already contemplating blacking out ethics the same way former President Olusegun Obasanjo directed that History be wiped out from schools.

The special treatment accorded two new entrants into the legal profession, Dino Melaye and Deji Adeyanju, over and above established lawyers with immense contributions to Nigeria’s legal jurisprudence during a recent gathering of the body is danger signal that worse days await the bar unless there is proper re-orientation of the new generation of lawyers. AGF Fagbemi’s declaration on Monday that he had started a probe into the messy property controversy in the United Kingdom could be a good starting point.

The recent News Central Diaspora Town Hall convened a powerful dialogue on the pivotal role of Nigeria’s diaspora in the nation’s development, spotlighting the critical link between diaspora remittances and democratic inclusion.

As remittance flows continue to underpin Nigeria’s economic stability, speakers urged that diaspora voting rights must be recognised and enabled as a natural extension of the diaspora’s financial contributions.

Councilor Hephzibah Olugbemi underscored the staggering economic power wielded by Nigerians abroad, highlighting that ‘in July alone, $553 million was remitted to Nigeria.’

She emphasised that the diaspora’s influence extends beyond money, calling for Nigerians overseas to ‘make their voices heard, not just with their money but with their vote.’

This sentiment echoes the broader recognition that diaspora remittances are a lifeline, sustaining families and fueling economic activity across Nigeria.

Bobby Digi Olisa, President of Nigerians in the Diaspora New York State, emphasised the need for infrastructural frameworks to support diaspora participation. ‘We need NIN and BVN registration. As the Diaspora invests billions into the motherland, they should surely have the right to vote.’

Chibuzor Ubochi, Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation in Europe (NIDO), firmly stated, ‘Diaspora voting is our right, not a favor,’ adding that voting is an intrinsic right of every Nigerian, including those abroad who significantly sustain the nation through remittances.’

Data from multiple sources show diaspora remittances to Nigeria reached approximately $19.5 billion in 2023 and are projected to hit $26 billion by 2025, reflecting both resilience and growth in formal remittance channels.’

The chairman of NIDO noted that ‘these inflows consistently exceed Nigeria’s oil revenues and contribute substantially to the federal budget, highlighting the diaspora’s outsized role in the national economy.’

As Nigeria approaches the 2027 elections, participants in the Town Hall meeting stressed that diaspora remittances must be matched by political recognition and inclusion. The collective call is for transparent, secure electronic voting systems that integrate diaspora input, ensuring that Nigerians abroad can exercise their democratic rights fully. They maintained that empowering the diaspora politically will reinforce their economic contributions and foster a more inclusive, accountable governance system, critical for Nigeria’s sustainable growth and unity.

The Federal Government and Meta Platforms Inc., parent company of Facebook and Instagram, have agreed on an out-of-court settlement of a $32.8 million fine against the latter.

The fine was imposed on the Meta Platforms for alleged data privacy violations involving Nigerian users.

Lawyers to the two parties disclosed this yesterday before the judge, James Omotosho, of the Federal High Court, Abuja.

The Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC) had in February, fined Meta $32.8 million for allegedly breaching Nigeria’s Data Protection Act.

The NDPC said the sanction followed a petition accusing the company of using Nigerians’ personal data for behavioural advertising without consent, failing to file its 2022 audit, transferring data abroad, and processing the information of non-users.

It later filed an ex parte motion in court to compel the company to comply with its orders.

However, Meta also sued NDPC, contending that the commission denied it a fair hearing in the $32.8 million award. Its lawyer, Gbolahan Elias, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), asked the court to void the orders.

But NDPC’s lawyer, Adeola Adedipe, also a SAN, urged the court to dismiss the suit, describing Meta’s filings as defective.

In a preliminary objection, the NDPC argued that Meta’s suit was ‘grossly incompetent’ and that the court lacked jurisdiction to hear it.

The commission claimed Meta failed to comply with rules guiding judicial review under Order 34 of the Federal High Court (Civil Procedure) Rules, 2019.

After hearing both parties on 16 July, Mr Omotosho allowed Meta to pursue judicial review but refused to halt NDPC’s orders. He adjourned the matter until 3 October for a consolidated ruling on NDPC’s objection and Meta’s motion to amend its filings.

Settlement discussion

At the scheduled ruling, Meta’s lawyer, Fred Onwuobia, a SAN, urged the court to defer the ruling on the preliminary objection and the motion on notice to amend, saying the parties had ‘reached an advanced stage of settlement’.

He said settlement was the option both parties had resolved to take, highlighting that they were concerned the ruling could affect ongoing discussions. ‘The draft terms of settlement have been exchanged,’ he said, urging the court to grant an adjournment for a report of settlement.

Mr Adedipe confirmed Meta’s position and said that the ‘settlement discussions have advanced appreciably.’ He also urged the court to adjourn so they could return with settlement terms for adoption as a ‘consent judgement.’

Judge Omotosho said the court encouraged settlement and was ‘inclined not to deliver the ruling today.’ He adjourned until 31 October for either a ruling or adoption of the settlement terms.

NDPC’s orders and Meta’s response

The fine against Meta was part of efforts by the NDPC to enforce the Nigeria Data Protection Act, which President Bola Tinubu signed into law in June 2023.

The dispute began after the commission issued its Final Orders on 18 February and imposed a $32.8 million remedial fee and eight corrective directives over alleged violations of the law.

It explained that the decision followed a petition from the civil society group, the Personal Data Protection Awareness Initiative, which accused Meta of engaging in behavioural advertising on Facebook and Instagram without explicit consent from Nigerian users.

The NDPC accused Meta of processing data of non-users and failing to file its 2022 compliance audit. It also alleged the company transferred Nigerians’ personal data abroad without authorisation and processed sensitive information, including that of minors, for targeted advertising.

The commission ordered Meta to conduct a data processing impact assessment reflecting Nigeria’s privacy context, update privacy policies, seek express consent before behavioural advertising, and halt the transfer of personal data outside the country without approval.

But Meta rejected both the findings and the process that led to them.

Through a suit filed on 19 March, the company said the NDPC denied it a fair hearing and due process. Its lawyer, Mr Elias, asked the Federal High Court to quash the enforcement orders, arguing they breached Section 36 of the Nigerian Constitution.

Mr Adedipe opposed the suit and urged the court to dismiss it. He said Meta’s suit and the statements attached to its ex parte motion were inconsistent, making the case incompetent.

He also argued that Meta was attempting to introduce new prayers after the court had ruled on its ex parte application, an amendment not permitted under the rules of court.

In a similar action, the commission fined Multichoice Nigeria N766.2 million for breaching the same law. It found that the Pay-TV operator violated the privacy rights of subscribers and their friends who were not subscribers, and also carried out unauthorised cross-border transfers of Nigerians’ personal data.

Prof Ojo Emmanuel Ademola, a management consultatnt highlights the qualities of All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential candidate Asiwaju Bola Tinubu in the art of creating wealth for the people.

When it comes to the upcoming presidential election in 2023, Nigerians will have two options: They will either deplete the massive transformation efforts of the current Buhari government, or will elect a resolute transformer who combines the core qualities of an actual master-wealth creator to lead the country to the promised land. We can only strategize against the defenestration of the country and its infrastructure to the state it was before Buhari took office. When it comes to Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s transformational capacity, comprehension, qualities of creating wealth, using diversity to boost productivity as an outcome, and application of governance tools for the benefit of the people, he stands head and shoulders above the other candidates in this election.

With Asiwaju as the President come from 2023, Nigerians will fulfil the greatest call of generations to have a president who indeed is a real master in wealth creation, both in private and public sectors. We know that to be great leaders, you need a great team. Identifying your Wealth Creators would unlock your national potentials. The individuals who take the Country to the next level are the wealth creators. Asiwaju is the real master of wealth creation across the board, of all the candidates vying to succeed Buhari.

The tenacity and resilience of wealth creators define Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He can, however, also be extremely task-oriented and challenging to work with him. You can argue that you don’t have to be a Wealth Creator to be a successful leader. Yes, many great leaders do not themselves create wealth. However, all leaders require the assistance of a Wealth Creators in order to drive public and private business expansion. Because of their unique combination of characteristics, Wealth Creators are able to make a leader’s vision a reality. With Asiwaju, Nigerians have a prosperous package of an actual master of wealth creation and transformational leader.

Countries and businesses are taking advantage of every opportunity to gain a slight edge over their rivals in today’s highly competitive world. Diversity is an advantage that is frequently overlooked. One of the most significant advantages of diversity is increased productivity, which is now becoming increasingly recognised by numerous nations and businesses. Companies with ethically diverse leadership teams outperform their rivals by up to 36%, according to several studies. When Asiwaju was in charge of Lagos State, he was the first governor to liberate the advantages of having a competitive advantage by having a cabinet full of people from different exemplary backgrounds. How, then, does this occur? To put it succinctly, Asiwaju successfully implemented the strategy of having leaders in his cabinet with diverse backgrounds and perspectives. Effectively, this led to improved decision-making, increased innovation, increased staff engagement and retention, and increased strategic thinking.

Asiwaju had this in mind again in his address at Arewa House, Kaduna, ‘It’s time to fetch water from a dry well. We will find a way where there is none. We build the Nigeria of your dream in your lifetime; it’s a promise you can depend on because adding value is my domain. I’m not an island of knowledge, but I have the capacity to gather the best people, and together we will build this country. I’ll make our Diversity a source of Prosperity for this nation.’

Asiwaju accentuated that making diversity works in the national economic and democratic made him to build bridges across Nigeria, and with exceptional quality of strategizing as one of the youngest strategists with the late Yar’Adua, and I quote: ‘My political history is full of long-abiding relationships and support for the North. My greatest rival, Atiku Abubakar, met me with the late Yar’Adua. I was one of the youngest strategists with Shehu Musa Yar’Adua. I started here in the North. Atiku met me with Yar’Adua after he left Nigeria Customs freshly. He met me strategising for Yar’adua…ask him…’ I can only confirm that one of Asiwaju’s wealth-creation strategies is to implement a diversity agenda in a way that leads to equal opportunities and a happier, more engaged team. If this is not the case, then why was the youngest Southerner strategist at the time collaborating diligently with Shehu Musa Yar’Adua, a northerner with broad political influence? By empowering a culture of resilience and tenacity, Asiwaju surely knows how to create a culture that values learning and implementing strategies from various perspectives.

When Asiwaju was questioned about climate change at the same gathering, he articulated his response to emphasise his mastery of wealth creation. Sure enough! Deniers of climate change will assert that there is no evidence that natural climate voices cause differences. Nevertheless, Asiwaju directly applies his wealth creation mastery to this situation! Don’t expect compliance if the West doesn’t guarantee the financial benefits of this policy! It’s an excellent response; In light of their policies for increasing wealth, the UK recently reversed its position on this demand related to climate change. Britain’s fracking ban must be lifted due to the energy crisis, sparking a long-running debate. Asiwaju responded that Nigeria, as a developing nation, should primarily rely on what is available to create wealth to move from developing status to an expanded level if Britain could do that in the interest of resolving the current energy crisis.

Asiwaju demonstrated exceptional proficiency in utilising diversity to achieve national prosperity, asserting that diversity is vital beyond the executive level. Nigerian states should work together at every level to determine their competitive advantages. People have a responsibility to share the things they do every day with their intended audiences and potential customers: help them produce better goods, provide better services, and generate more revenue for the population as a whole. Lagos is a constant reminder of Asiwaju’s remarkable capacity for transformation, mastery of the framework for wealth creation, and governance skills. Others, including those who have held positions of authority for extended periods and even at higher levels, do not have any record of wealth creation encounter except using government resources to make themselves. In contrast, Asiwaju has tangible evidence of Lagos’s enormous growth during his time as governor. Asiwaju’s accomplishments in Lagos serve as an admirable wealth-creation model for the growth of Nigeria into the prosperous Federal Republic if elected the next president of Nigeria.

Notably, before entering politics, Asiwaju had acquired sufficient wealth as a senior member of Mobil Oil Producing. On the other hand, other politicians running for president in 2023 could not provide evidence of wealth creation outside of their official responsibilities. As an elected official, a presidential candidate, for instance, established a private university. One other candidate, according to the evidence, used state funds to support family businesses as the state’s chief executive. Asiwaju was busy creating wealth and establishing his teams in Nigeria. At the same time, other former top executives of States of the Federation were busy shipping the resources of their states abroad and developing foreign economies. In Nigeria today, those businesses employ a few thousand, if not millions, of breadwinners.

Asiwaju’s mastery of the phenomenon of wealth creation is demonstrated by numerous examples. At about N600 million per month, Asiwaju met Lagos IGR, leaving it at N12-14 billion per month. Asiwaju paid salaries and pensions regularly for three and a half years while the PDP government led by Obasanjo seized Lagos allocations despite Supreme Court’s ruling against the action. The payment for the allocation to Fasola’s government came from Yardua. Asiwaju created LASTMA through his mastery of wealth creation and core leadership qualities, which the then-Federal Government copied to create FERMA.

When we consider where Lagos was before Asiwaju assumed its governorship seat and where it is now, with his enormous influence looming in the governance of Lagos, we will appreciate Asiwaju’s ebullient capacity and why he remains the undisputed candidate with the proven competence and ability to transform Nigeria into the desired land of prosperity where everyone stands to benefit. The success that Asiwaju achieved in Lagos serves as a reminder that people with different experiences and backgrounds may also perceive the same problem differently and come up with other solutions, particularly when an actual master of wealth creation leads the team. Additionally, employing such a leadership style increases the likelihood that one of those solutions will be successful, highlighting the significance of being adaptable in a dynamic business and democratic environment.

Today’s case study in developmental economics is the enormous transformation that Lagos has undergone since Asiwaju took office, as well as the apparent economic potential of the state. Obviously, this is an example of how a leader’s intellect can have a significant impact on the fortunes of a state and a nation. Asiwaju made a substantial difference in Nigeria by skilfully deploying capacity, severely lacking in the country’s leadership ranks. As a result of his efforts, the fortunes of millions of Nigerians improved, which makes a significant difference in a nation that severely lacks cerebral and competent leadership. Lekki was born when Asiwaju saw a massive opportunity in a filthy, waterlogged landmass. Lekki is now a swath of a sprawling metropolis inhabited by upscale Nigerians and with a net land value that is higher than the average upscale environment in Nigeria. Asiwaju built Lekki with an excellent mind for wealth creation. Lekki has now encroached on nearby suburbs like Ajah, Badore, and others, and the value of its land continues to rise with each passing day. Lekki resulted from Asiwaju’s innovative thinking, determination to succeed, and an unquenchable thirst for success.

When discussing Asiwaju’s mastery of wealth creation and transformative power, the Lekki Free Trade Zone, now affectionately referred to as the Nigerian Dubai, is also phenomenal. The largest refinery in the world, Africa’s largest fertiliser company, and a deep-sea port are all located in the Lekki Free Trade Zone today, affecting the daily lives of millions of Nigerians. No one will ever be able to quantify the economic potential of the Lekki Free Trade Zone when it reaches its full potential because the zone is still in its infancy.

The gradual opening of Eko Atlantic City illustrates Asiwaju’s incomprehensible capacity for transformation with the prowess of wealth creation. The idea of chasing the raging Atlantic Ocean, which would then pose a threat to Victoria Island as a whole and deep within its borders, was developed by Asiwaju. He started the project, which later governments took over. Eko Atlantic City has emerged as a new preferred city as a significant portion of the ocean has been reclaimed. The city is known for its high value because it is one of the most expensive pieces of real estate in the world today. The United States of America is currently building the largest embassy in the world in that city! Nigerians must give due to Asiwaju’s profound creativity and transformational capacity. By simply imagining the value that Eko Atlantic City stands to bring to Nigeria and the lives of millions of Nigerians, you will understand why no one in the current race for the presidency of Nigeria comes close to Asiwaju in his capacity to use the tools of government to create wealth, transform the fortunes and lives of millions of Nigerians.

We cannot conclude the story without looking at the significant transformation of the transportation sector in Lagos, which shows how Asiwaju used his transformative capacity to change lives. When he arrived in Lagos in 1999, the state’s growth and progress were hampered by a disorganised, turbulent, riotous, and messy transportation system. He showed up and got to work. He established LASTMA with the primary goal of enforcing road usage discipline and cleaning up the industry’s soiled image. After that, he recited the rules for how to use the road and established a schedule for gradually eliminating the rickety and shabby buses, which were Lagos’s primary mode of public transportation. He then started the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) program, used in many progressive cities and metropolises worldwide. He also promised that the transportation system in Lagos would change in a record amount of time.

In Lagos, the BRT program is currently very successful and working well. In order to meet the increasing requirements of Lagosians, additional innovations and routes are being added to the program. In addition, smaller yellow buses, despite still being present, are being phased out of Lagos’ roads in favour of the shabby giant molue buses, which are now entirely extinct. Today, Lagos’ streets are cleaner and more accessible, and drivers are more disciplined and responsible when using the roads.

As the first African city to construct and operate its own intra-city rail transportation, Lagos will soon begin intra-city rail transportation near the completion of the blue and red rail lines. In a similar vein, Lagos operates a cutting-edge ferry service that carries hundreds of thousands of commuters daily across the vast waterways of the city. At the moment, Lagos has available land, rail, and water transportation systems; the only state in Nigeria with this right.

All of these factors contribute to the transformation of the transportation system in Lagos, which has not only seen the transportation sector transition from its odious primordial past to a new system that is more friendly, continues to expand by the day and empowers millions of Lagosians. Another way Asiwaju impacted the lives of millions of Lagosians was by establishing additional local government councils.

Asiwaju, a true democrat and a master of wealth-creator, sees the need to use democratic principles to improve people’s lives. He was the first governor to initiate the establishment of other local councils to not only bring governance closer to the people but also to provide viable, life-altering employment opportunities and empower Lagosians. He thought of local councils as a way to reach more people and give them more power.

The PDP federal government did not have the privilege of sharing Asiwaju’s grand vision due to its narrow understanding of governance and abject pettiness. As a result, it repressed Lagos and deceitfully seized the state’s allocations to local government during Asiwaju’s eight years as governor. Asiwaju never let this stop him from filing numerous legal challenges to this offensive act. Despite the Supreme Court’s ruling that the action was illegal, the PDP government continued to withhold the Lagos LG allocation, even though he won all of the cases. But this didn’t stop Asiwaju from running the new local councils as the Local Council Development Authority.

The LCDAs are now thriving administrative councils that employ hundreds of thousands of Lagosians and provide various administrative services to the city’s residents. That is Asiwaju’s crucial transformative capacity, mastery of wealth creation, backed by a tremendous drive to complete tasks and achieve results. Because of this, he refused to give in to the bullying tactics of the Obasanjo/PDP federal government, which was determined to sabotage his efforts to establish these additional centres of governance that now significantly boost Lagos’ economy and the fortunes of its residents.

When Asiwaju was elected governor of Lagos, he had a big plan to put an end to the terrible power crisis that hampered the activities of the state power section. He came up with the idea of distributing and producing power in different ways. He then included the American power company, Enron, in the process of privatizing power generation and distribution. The PDP federal government hampered and obstructed the Enron project, claiming that power is on the exclusive list (which only the federal government can operate). Consequently, Nigeria missed out on a significant opportunity for private participation in the power sector, maintaining the hegemony of the state power company. As a result of losing Asiwaju’s initiative, power quality has deteriorated frequently, and the state power company has no solution. If the Enron project had been allowed to flourish, Nigeria would have resolved its intractable power issue by now. Asiwaju knows exactly how the workplace will change in the future, without a doubt. Nigerians can rely on Asiwaju to address the problem of inadequate power supply if he is elected president, using this indicator and other indicators as a timeline for a long-term, one-of-a-kind model of wealth creation for the entire nation.

Resident Electoral Commissioner, Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Anambra State, Dr Elizabeth Agwu has challenged women to build confidence in themselves to be recognized.

Agwu stated this on Friday at the validation meeting on Project IMPACT baseline study finding on Persons With Disabilities and Women’s Political Aspiration in Elective Position.

The initiative is being implemented by Social and Integral Development Center (SIDEC), in partnership with Nigeria Civil Society Situation Room supported by the UK-FCDO.

The REC said the problem of women was not in the number of slots they were given, but in realizing their capacity towards contribution to nation building.

She cited her numerous feats achieved through various positions she had occupied over the years, challenging women not to underrate themselves.

She said, ‘I don’t believe in women’s liberation. Women must have confidence in themselves and recognize they can.

‘Don’t wait for the men to give you a chance. Surely they’ll give us a quota but those slots can’t be enough as the one we give to ourselves.

‘It’s not to give you a chance but for you to believe you can do it. We can change the narratives by changing our orientation. Let’s begin to give our girl child the orientation so they can compete favourably with the men.’

Earlier, Executive Director, SIDEC, Ugochi Ehiahuruike said the project was to promote inclusive participation of women, youth, and Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in governance and combat disinformation.

‘Through this validation process, we will present key findings and collect feedback to strengthen the report’s accuracy and relevance.

‘We will build consensus on baseline indicators to track project progress; foster shared ownership and credibility among stakeholders,’ she added.

Chairman, Joint National Association of Persons With Disabilities (JONAPWD), Anambra State Chapter, Ugochukwu Okeke described the engagement as timely and strategic, as well as call for action.

‘For too long, the voices of women and persons with disabilities have been underrepresented in leadership and decision-making spaces, despite their proven abilities, resilience, and contributions to nation-building,’ he added.

Saying that the opposition is living in awe of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s firm foothold on the nation’s political terrain is an understatement. More correctly, the President’s popularity is a nightmare for the likes of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai and other opposition politicians whose mission is to unseat him in the 2027 elections.

But the harder they try, the more it is looking like unseating Tinubu in 2027 is a mission impossible. If nothing else, the obvious disarray in the opposition camp point to the mountain they would have to climb in 2027 for their dreams to materialise. Even the coalition of anti-Tinubu forces championed by Atiku and El-Rufai is yet to find its feet while the elections approach at astonishing speed.

For the opposition elements, it is a case of the falcon not hearing the falconer as Tinubu’s influence continues to loom large in their camp. It is getting increasingly difficult, as the elections approach, to know which opposition member is truly against Tinubu as many of them are clandestinely working to ensure that he secures a second term.

It could not have been otherwise, considering how easier life has become governors under Tinubu’s leadership. Now availed with about three times the amount of money that comes to them from the federal purse on a daily basis, many of them believe of them believe they owe him a world of gratitude, and the best way they can reciprocate his gesture and sustain their new financial status is to support the President for a second term. That is particularly the case with first-term governors who are hoping for another four years after the current dispensation.

A pointer to the foregoing was the recent gale of defections by opposition governors and members of the National Assembly to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) as well as a melodrama that occurred at a recent zoning consultative meeting in Lagos by southern stakeholders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) opposed to Tinubu’s reelection in 2027.

It turned out, however, that a few hours later, some PDP governors who had attended the said meeting where they also resolved to expel FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, former Benue State governor Daniel Ortom and others accused of anti-party activities, were on board an aircraft that took them to Brazil.

While their mission to the South American country remains a matter of conjecture, it nonetheless provoked curiousity in that it coincided with President Tinubu’s official visit.

Amid speculation of internal plots against the leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), senior party figures have dismissed claims of a crisis, insisting that the party remains united behind its National Chairman and former President of the Senate, David Mark.

Reacting to comments reportedly attributed to former National Vice Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Salihu Lukman, suggesting cracks within the ADC, the National Treasurer, Ibrahim Ahmad Mani, said such insinuations were baseless.

Lukman allegedly warned that the same power tussle which once fueled attempts to unseat David Mark at the national level was now playing out in Kaduna, cautioning that such internal battles could weaken the opposition ahead of 2027

‘I don’t know anything about what he’s saying. As far as we are concerned, we are not aware of any such plot.

‘We are solidly and vehemently behind our national chairman and are rallying around him to ensure the party is properly established across states and local governments in Nigeria,’ he told The Nation in a telephone conversation yesterday.

According to him, the party is making ‘steady progress’ under the leadership of its chairman, whom he described as bringing valuable experience to bear.

‘We’re not in any way contemplating this,’ he added, stressing that while politicians were free to speculate, the ADC as an institution had no such issues.

The wait is finally over as the historic E1 Lagos GP officially commenced on Friday with the opening ceremony held at the Lagos Motor Boat Club, Ikoyi as Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu flagged off the race weekend.

The iconic race with a blend of speed, culture and mind-blowing speed is coming to the heart of Africa, and Lagos showcasing its waterways to drive sports tourism and sustainable development.

The E1 Lagos GP – the UIM World Championship, an all-electric international offshore powerboat racing series highlights Lagos blue economy potentials and the state commitment to host major sporting events.

Speaking at the well-attended opening ceremony, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Alejandro Agag said bringing E1 to Africa represents a pivotal moment in the mission to grow electric racing on the continent, making the event truly global.

African football legend Didier Drogba, co-owner of Team Drogba Global Africa along with Gabrielle Lemaire, is representing Africa in the global to championship. The former Chelsea star expressed excitement with Africa’s ever race in Nigeia.

Governor Sanwo-Olu acknowledged the impact of E1 Lagos GP while assuring on the state’s commitment to host future event, making race a permanent event on the global E1 calendar.

The Governor commended the organizers for bringing the race to Lagos and lead partner First Bank for making the dream a reality. He further assured on the state resolve to compete with big cities across the world though her resilient, competitiveness and home to global businesses.

The RaceBirds took to the Lagos Lagoon to round off the opening ceremony ahead of the race which starts with the qualifying rounds on Saturday while the main race will hold on Sunday.

The E1 Lagos GP set up up a thrilling penultimate round in the battle to crown the 2025 ‘Champions of the Water’ ahead of the season finale in Miami.

The Federal High Court in Abuja presided over by Justice JO Abdulmalik has halted plans by some members of the Minority Caucus in the House of Representatives to remove Kingsley Chinda (PDP, Rivers) as the Minority Leader of the House for his alleged relationship with the Minister of the FCT, Nyelsom Wike.

In an order of interim injunction, the court ordered all parties in the suit filed on behalf of Chinda by Dr.JY Musa (SAN) to maintain status quo pending the determination of the suit.

Defendants in the suit are the National Assembly, the Clerk to the National Assembly, the House of Representatives, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Clerk to the House of Representatives, the Peoples Democratic Party, the New Nigeria Peoples Party, the Labour Party, All Progressive Grand Alliance, Social Democratic Party, Africa Democratic Party and the Young Progressive Party.

He is seeking an order restraining the defendants, their servants, privies, officers, agents, members, howsoever described from removing him as Minority Leader of the House of Representative without compliance with the due process of the law or accepting/recognizing any exercise by any person(s) purportedly removing him from his position as the Minority Leader of the House.

In his ruling, the Judge said ‘it is my considered firm opinion that in order to ensure all the parties listed in these processes have equal playing ground by virtue of their constitutional rights enshrined in Section 36 (1) of the 1999 Constitution Federal Republic of Nigeria (as Amended), as well as the need to protect the res sought in the application.

IT IS HEREBY ORDERED AS FOLLOWS:

‘THAT the Applicant SHALL forthwith serve on all the Defendants/Respondents the Motion on Notice with Suit No:-

FHC/ABJ/CS/1936/2025 filed on 16th September 2025, along with all relevant processes filed in this matter, so as not to foist a fait accompli on the outcome of the reliefs sought in this application which are also exact same reliefs prayed in the Motion on Notice with Suit No:-

FHC/ABJ/CS/1936/2025.

‘THAT the hearing of the Motion on Notice with Suit No:- FHC/ABJ/CS/1936/2025 filed on 16th September 2025,

SHALL pursuant to Section 6 (6) (b) ofthe 1999 Constitution Federal Republic of Nigeria (as Amended) be EXPEDIENTLY resolved on its MERIT by this Honourable Court for the attainment of Justice in this matter.

‘THAT ALL the concerned parties listed in this application SHALL maintain STATUS QUO in respect of the res prayed on the face of the Motion Ex-Parte pending the hearing and determination on its MERIT of the Motion on Notice with Suit No:-

FHC/ABJ/CS/1936/2025 filed on 16th

September 2025.

‘THAT ALL the Defendants/Respondents SHALL be served with Hearing Notices in respect of this matter.’

In his statement of claim, Chinda is seeking a declaration that the move to remove him from his position as the Minority Leader of the House of Representatives on the account of his association with Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, the current Minister of the FCT is a clear violation of his right to Freedom of Association as guaranteed by Section 40 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended).

He is also seeking q declaration that the Defendants lack the vires to remove him from his position as the Minority Leader of the House arbitrarily without full compliance with the provisions of Order 7 Rule 14 of the Standing Orders of the House of Representatives, Eleventh Edition and in the manner offensive to all civilized democratic norms.

He sought an order of injunction restraining the 1st – 5th Defendants, their privies, agents, servants, Officers, howsoever described from giving effect to any exercise or instrument purporting to have removed the Plaintiff by the Defendants in disregard of the provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended) or any Rules or Standing Orders of the House of Representatives.

In his statement of claim, Chinda said he was a member of the People’s Democratic Party,m and was elected to represent the People of Obio/Akpor Federal Constituency of Rivers State, the constituency of the Minister of the FCT.

According to him, by virtue of having the majority of members among the minority parties had the option of producing the Minority Leader of the House of Representatives and that members of the political parties with minority members nominated him as the Minority Leader, the position which he occupies in the House of Representatives till date.

He averred that the only reason given for the plot to remove him is that he associates with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, who is also a member of the Peoples Democratic Party.

He argued that the eleventh edition of Standing Orders of the House of Representatives makes provisions for the procedures for removing any officer of the House which have not been complied with, rather the said minority members are hell bent on removing the Plaintiff. The said Standing Orders of the House will be relied on at the trial of this suit.

According to him, the Standing Orders of the House provides that after due notice to the House, the majority party and the minority parties may change their leader and whip, deputy leader,and deputy whip, provided that the change is made by the majority of the members of the parties in the House themselves, adding that such due process has not been followed in the plot to remove him.

The House, he said, has been on vacation since 23d of July, 2025 and that majority of the members of the minority parties in the

House have travelled and there are no majority of members of the minority parties to make or seek for change in the minority leadership of the House.

He averred that a change of the minority leadership of the House can only be made by the majority of the members of the minority parties in the House themselves after due notice to the House.

He stressed that while the House was on break, some minority parties of the House, mainly the Peoples Democratic Party, have been having clandestine meetings and lobbying members of the other minority parties to have him removed as Minority Leader of the House before the resumption of the House and to present same to the House on resumption.

He stressed that any purported exercise removing him from being Minority Leader of the House can only become effective on such exercise being recognized by the Ist-5th defendants. adding that from his cognate legislative experience, overwhelming political pressure is likely to weigh on the parliament to succumb to the illegal exercise aimed at his removal which is imminent.

He also said that while the National Executive Committee meeting of the Peoples Democratic Party was in progress on Monday 25Ih of August, 2025, some members of the House of Representatives under the auspices of Peoples Democratic Party caucus in the House were also holding meeting where the issue of his immediate removal was discussed.

He also averred that on the 6th September, 2025, the 6th -12th Defendants met and took a decision to remove him and the Deputy Minority Whip of the House making it clear that the decision to remove him is based on his relationship with the Honourable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barrister Ezenwo Nyesom Wike.

This recognition is deeply humbling. Personally, it affirms the years of passion and sacrifice behind the JoyfulJoy Foundation. Professionally, it validates our work on a global stage and opens new doors for collaboration to create even greater impact.

The foundation has been running for 13 years. Looking back, what were the toughest early challenges, and what keeps you motivated to sustain the vision today?

The toughest early challenge was convincing people that a small foundation could make a big difference. Limited resources and scepticism were real hurdles. What keeps me motivated today is the lives we’ve touched who no longer have to fear malaria. That hope fuels me every day.

The foundation was born from a personal tragedy – the loss of your sister to malaria. How have you turned that pain into purpose, and in what ways has the foundation prevented other families from going through the same?

Losing my sister to malaria remains the most painful moment of my life. But that tragedy ignited my resolve to ensure fewer families endure the same. Over the years, we’ve distributed thousands of mosquito nets, run awareness campaigns, and supported healthcare programs that have reduced preventable deaths. Each saved life honours her memory.

When you see Nigeria still battling malaria after decades, what thoughts come to mind? Do you believe enough is being done by the government and stakeholders?

It’s heartbreaking that malaria still claims lives after decades. Government and stakeholders are making efforts, but more can be done, especially in community education, stronger healthcare systems, and equitable access to preventive tools. Collaboration is key if we are to win this battle.

You recently co-executive-produced a movie with Burna Boy and his mother, Bose Ogulu. Can you tell us about the project and why it is significant to you?

That project was powerful because it merged art with advocacy. Storytelling through film is a way to spark conversations beyond borders. Working with Burna Boy and his mother was inspiring; they bring creativity and vision that align with my own passion for meaningful projects.

You share a warm bond with Burna Boy’s family. How did that relationship begin, and what lessons have you picked up from working with them?

Our relationship grew organically from mutual respect. They’ve taught me that success is rooted in discipline, authenticity, and never forgetting where you come from.

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As both an actress and a producer, how do you balance the creative and business sides of film? Which role stretches you more?

Acting stretches my emotions, while producing stretches my strategy. Balancing both is challenging but rewarding. I’ve learned that telling stories requires both heart and structure.

You are often celebrated as one of Nollywood’s most admired women, not just for your beauty but also for your depth in roles. How important is fitness and mental well-being in helping you deliver powerful performances?

Fitness and mental health are non-negotiables for me. They give me the energy, clarity, and emotional depth to fully embody the characters I play.

You once said relocating to Nigeria was a blessing. Beyond fame, what exactly made it a blessing and what sacrifices have you had to make to stay grounded here?

Nigeria gave me a deeper sense of purpose. It’s not just about fame, it’s about connection, culture, and contributing to home. The sacrifices? Privacy, and sometimes, comfort. But the blessings outweigh them.

Nollywood is growing globally. In your view, what must the industry do differently to compete with Hollywood and Bollywood on the world stage?

Nollywood must invest more in training, distribution, and storytelling that resonates universally while staying authentic. We already have the talent and creativity; now it’s about increased infrastructure and vision.

Many fans see the glamour, but what’s one side of Osas Ighodaro that people rarely get to see?

People often see the glam, but I’m actually quite goofy and down-to-earth. My close circle knows me as someone who loves to laugh and just be myself.

If you weren’t an actress, what would Osas be doing today?

I’d probably be in public health or philanthropy full-time. My passion has always been to help people and spread joy.

What does happiness mean to you at this stage of your life and career?

Happiness for me is balance: being present with my daughter, pursuing meaningful work, and staying grounded in faith and gratitude.

As a mother, actress, philanthropist, and producer, how do you navigate balance without losing yourself?

I don’t have it all figured out, but I prioritise what matters most in each season. I’ve learned to give myself grace.

What would you say has been your boldest career risk so far, and did it pay off?

Relocating to Nigeria and chasing my dreams was my boldest risk. It was scary, but it is paying off beautifully.

You’ve worked across Nigeria and the US. How has that shaped your outlook on life, culture, and even the roles you choose?

It’s given me a global lens. I see the strengths in both cultures, and it helps me choose roles that bridge worlds and tell richer stories.

What’s the one message you hope your daughter takes away from watching your life and career?

I hope she learns that strength and kindness go hand in hand and that she can achieve anything she puts her heart into.

Where do you see yourself and the JoyfulJoy Foundation in the next decade?

In the next decade, I see us scaling to more countries, innovating with technology for healthcare delivery, and continuing to inspire global action against preventable diseases. And above all, I pray that by then malaria will be alleviated, and we will live in a world finally free from its grip.