Category: Nigerian Tribune

Rivers Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has sacked all commissioners and other public officers not screened by the Speaker Martins Amaewhule-led House of Assembly serving under his administration in line with the Supreme Court decision of February 28, 2025.

A statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Nelson Chukwudi, said the sacking was with immediate effect.

The news of the firing of the commissioners came after an Independence Day cabinet session organized by the Governor.

At the cabinet session, which served as a valedictory session, Governor Fubara thanked members of his cabinet and the other political appointees for their services and contributions to the development of the state in the last two years.

According to the statement, ‘Rivers State Governor, His Excellency, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has thanked members of his cabinet for their services and contributions to the development of the State in the last two years,’ the statement read.

‘The governor highlighted the significance of Nigeria’s Independence, and called on all Nigerians to work together with Mr President to build a peaceful, secure and prosperous country and a brighter future for all.’

He also reiterated his commitment to serve the State with renewed vigour, while thanking all citizens for their support, and wished all Nigerians a happy Independence anniversary.

‘Furthermore, the Governor has relieved all Commissioners and other public officers affected by the recent Supreme Court judgement of their appointments with immediate effect, ‘ the statement added.

The statement, however, did not mention the names of the commissioners or officials affected by the sack, but the majority of the commissioners appointed by Governor Fubara in the heat of his disagreement with FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, were not screened by the then Amaewhule-led House of Assembly.

They were appointed after their predecessors, who, in a display of loyalty to Wike, who influenced their appointments they resigned en masse.

But following the Supreme Court judgment recognising the Amaewhule-led Assembly as the authentic one, the appointment of the commissioners who were screened by the Oko Jumbo faction of the Assembly was rendered a nullity.

The lingering controversy over control of Osun State’s local government allocations took another twist on Thursday as the 30 elected council chairmen secured a fresh court order against UBA, freezing bank accounts earlier opened by the sacked APC council bosses.

An Oyo State High Court sitting in Ibadan, presided over by Justice A. L. Akintola, granted the interim injunction in an ex-parte motion brought by the elected chairmen. The order restrains UBA from paying, releasing, or tampering with funds deposited in the 30 local government accounts where the CBN controversially lodged statutory allocations belonging to Osun councils.

The Certified True Copy (CTC) of the order, signed by the Principal Registrar of the Oyo State High Court, Mrs. B. O. Somide, was issued on 2 October 2025 and obtained by reporters on Friday.

The claimants, led by Hon. Sarafadeen Awotunde and five others on behalf of all the 30 council chairmen and councillors in Osun State, argued that unless the court intervened urgently, the funds could be dissipated illegally by the ousted APC chairmen, causing irreparable harm to the lawful administrations of the councils.

In his ruling dated 2 October 2025, Justice Akintola agreed that the matter required urgent judicial intervention.

‘Having carefully considered the claimants/applicants’ motion ex-parte together with the supporting affidavits and exhibits, this court is satisfied that the claimants/applicants have successfully made out a case for urgent and timely intervention, as any delay in granting the interim orders might foist irreversible harm on them,’ the judge declared.

Consequently, the court granted:

An order of interim injunction restraining UBA from paying, releasing, disbursing, or tampering with funds in the disputed local government accounts.

An order of mandatory injunction mandating UBA to place a ‘Post No Debit’ (PND) lien on the affected accounts pending the hearing of the substantive motion on notice.

The affected accounts include those of all 30 local governments in Osun State, from Atakumosa East to Osogbo Local Government Area, each identified by name and account number with UBA.

The suit, filed as Suit No. 1/1167/2025 at Court No. 5 of the Ibadan Judicial Division, was moved by counsel to the claimants, Olalekan Adeoye Esq.

Justice Akintola adjourned the hearing of the substantive motion on notice for interlocutory injunction to 9 October 2025.

This latest ruling comes amid heightened tension over Osun’s local government allocations, with the rival camps of sacked APC chairmen and the current elected PDP chairmen locked in a fierce legal battle.

The state government had, on Friday last week, obtained a similar injunction against the accounts in a case instituted by the Attorney-General of Osun State.

IN any functioning democracy, political parties are more than just vehicles for winning general elections. Unfortunately, in Nigeria, and for many politicians, that is precisely what the parties are for. After the elections, it is typical for these politicians to disappear and only resurface during the next election cycle when they once again need the party platform to contest. They are also notorious for abandoning the funding of the party to the more committed members. Even if the Electoral Act is amended to allow for independent candidacy, only very few politicians in Nigeria can win elections based solely on their personal popularity or strength. Again, for certain individuals such as Senator Ibrahim Lamido, the structure of the All Progressives Congress (APC) was essential to their electoral success. He reportedly lost his polling unit, ward and local government due to his unpopularity. He was saved by the other local government areas. The question that then arises is: why is Senator Lamido criticising bigwigs of the APC, the party that generously gave him its platform to actualize his political ambitions? It is also a known fact that without Alhaji Isa Sadiq Achida, the Chairman of the APC Sokoto State Chapter, who introduced him to Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko and Governor Ahmed Aliyu, he wouldn’t have emerged as the candidate, let alone win the general election. It’s worth noting that Senator Lamido hasn’t controverted this fact or disclosed the crime of those who in the first place made his election possible.

If Senator Lamido has legitimate concerns, he has failed to present any concrete and coherent grievances and it’s not surprising that he has no case to pursue through the internal dispute resolution mechanisms available to him. This pattern of unconstructive behaviour does not suggest any principled disagreement, but rather the tantrum of a politician out of his depth. And assuming Senator Lamido is dissatisfied with the manner his complaints have been handled by the various organs of the party, is attempting to factionalise the party his best option? But one thing is certain and that’s that Senator Ibrahim Lamido’s alleged efforts at factionalizing the party is a huge joke. But why are Nigerian political parties unable to discipline their recalcitrant members, unlike the African National Congress (ANC)? Or is it because most Nigerian political parties were formed around elections and have no history of long-term struggles? And the fact that they tend to emerge, collapse, or mutate based on political convenience rather than any long-term vision which makes loyalty to parties often nonexistent and mostly transactional? The African National Congress (ANC) is definitely stronger and more cohesive than most Nigerian parties, which many believe has to do with the ANC’s deep historical roots as a liberation movement that fought against apartheid for decades. And the fact that many members of the ANC see it as more than a party, but as a historical institution.

Were it in South Africa, the ANC would have wasted no time recalling Senator Lamido from the Senate. The ANC has proven that it has the capacity by recalling Presidents Thabo Mbeki in 2008 and Jacob Zuma in 2018 when their leadership threatened the ANC’s unity and reputation. It’s also a known fact that members of the ANC unquestioningly fall in line with party decisions even when they vehemently disagree with such decisions, because of the obvious and clear consequences. Nigerian parties, on the other hand, struggle to enforce discipline even when as in the case of Senator Lamido his actions are a flagrant violation of the APC’s constitution, bad publicity for the party, and a distraction from the accomplishments of the Governor Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto administration. According to Article 21(a)(iii) of the APC Constitution (2014, as amended), anti-party activities or actions that bring the party into disrepute are grounds for disciplinary action. Senator Lamido’s public statements against the party leadership fall within this definition.

What is needed is an urgent enforcement of the party constitution, which has the necessary provisions needed to strengthen and for managing disagreements. The era of failing to resolve grievances within the party and putting the party in a bad light should be over. These political shenanigans must no longer be tolerated. The question is, why hasn’t the APC Sokoto State chapter triggered this constitutional provision? First is the peaceful nature of Governor Aliyu, Senator Wamakko, and Isa Achida, the party Chairman. This explains why, for a very long time, the party had largely ignored his antics. The other reason is that Senator Lamido, despite his media activities, is not considered a political threat. His inability to gather meaningful support or command influence within the party structure is why the party has continued to see his actions as that of a politically weak person. His so-called ‘faction,’ if one can call it that, has been operating mostly on the pages of some newspapers and new media platforms.

But even tolerable distractions have their limits, hence the recent ‘bomb’ by the party chairman. The breaking point came when Senator Lamido reportedly crossed the line by publicly insulting Senator Aliyu Wamakko, the very man whose political machinery made his election possible. The insult was a red line the party could no longer ignore. In Sokoto and across the APC, Wamakko is not just a political leader, he is an institution. Disparaging him was not merely an act of disrespect, but a direct assault on the party’s foundation in the state and a reckless provocation. What makes Senator Lamido’s case even more interesting is that in the Senate, he has failed to live up to the expectations of his constituents and the party.

Based on his work experience, he looked like a good material, but like they say, the hood does not make the monk. Going forward, the APC and indeed all the other political parties must begin to prioritise character, competence, and party discipline when supporting candidates. The era of fielding candidates based purely on ‘hope’ that their educational background and work experience will translate into performance must give way to a new standard rooted in loyalty, tested capacity, and a genuine desire to serve. Senator Ibrahim Lamido’s descent from political beneficiary to internal critic is both regrettable and instructive. It reflects the risks political parties face when individuals are elevated without the necessary grounding in ideology, loyalty, or political maturity. The APC Sokoto State Chapter has a responsibility to ensure that politics is not reduced to ambition without responsibility or power without purpose. The governor it supported is an example of a candidate who deserved the party’s support. Without party discipline, there will be utter lawlessness. It must wield the big stick, because only then can it preserve party unity, and the strength needed to lead both party and state into a more stable and prosperous future. Members must play by the rules.

Political parties are the institutional backbone of governance. They provide ideological direction, policy continuity, and the structure through which elected officials emerge and operate.

What do you think is responsible for the exodus of Nigeria’s best brain to the foreign countries and how can it be checked?

Lack of infrastructure, adequate policies and a very weak judiciary and policing system to create an adequate environment for business and social life. There has to be restored confidence from foreign investors, our power situation has to improve, government has to enact policies to attract foreign investors and protect their rights and also adhere to agreements. With proper security, improved road network and regular power supply, Nigeria stands a very good chance competing with western economies

What is your assessment of the Ijaw National Congress and other socio-cultural groups?

The INC has come a long way. However there is still a long way to go. The lack of private investment in these social cultural groups has left them at the mercies of governments which makes. It impossible for them to be fair voices and checks to the ills of governments in regions where they operate. The INC, for example, needs to have a purse devoid of government. And also a seat on the table of government and decision making to enable them serve as a fourth force in addition to the legislature, judiciary and executive. I am passionate about government giving social cultural groups some kind of legal backing to check the excesses of other forms of government

Years after the implementation of resources control in the Niger Delta region, how would you assess the impact on the people?

Resource control may have been a good idea in an ideal society. However, governments in the areas where there has been agitation for resource control haven’t shown faithfulness in managing the current resource they have. It would be a disaster to allow them control their resources at this point. However, a gradual approach to resource control should be adopted.

Can you highlight the success of the UNGA and of what benefits to AASME in Nigeria?

The United Nations General Assembly gives the world and indeed Africa an opportunity for robust interactions and for AASME. As Vice President diaspora and opportunity to interact with individuals and corporate bodies with interest in the numerous investment opportunities in Africa. AAASME has always desired to set up a database of credible and viable SMEs across Africa. A database that would make it is easy for would be investors to communicate and interact with SMEs across Africa. By the click of a button, any investor can choose any area of investment, view startup opportunities, interact and make a choice on who and where to go. This would be the first of its kind in Africa. SMEs would be regularly screened and the data base updated monthly to promote growth in Africa. My office is currently on an information drive to connect businesses in diaspora with counterparts in Africa. AASME is aimed to be the most credible and updated vehicle to bring this connection. Upon my assumption into office as vice president, i set up an extensive research team that is made up of captains of industries in the diaspora to come up with a working document on the challenges in connection the diaspora with Africa business to ensure steady and speedy growth. This has led to the immediate need for a data base. AASME President Dr Ebiekure Eradiri has been very supportive in my quest to bring about this desired connection. I encourage every business in Africa to reach out to AAASME within the coming weeks to get register as a viable and credible SME. This registration is absolutely free but would require an extensive background check.

What can you say about access to fund for entrepreneurs and SMEs operators in Nigeria?

Nigeria SMEs have a very poor chance of growth. The major issue is financing. Access to finances has been hijacked by certain individuals who have made it impossible for small businesses to access and benefit. Also, the cost of doing business in Nigeria is extremely high due to the erratic power availability and road network for the production and distribution of goods and services. Nigeria needs to set up a very strong financial institution to serve the needs of SMEs. What is obtainable now in Nigeria does not support SME, they cannot meet the terms and conditions of these loans to start or grow their businesses. The private sector of huge manufacturers has made it impossible for small businesses to grow, and this is a sad reality. We have a greedy private sector and a nonchalant government. From commodities, health care, infrastructure, we do not have active and growing SMEs. Its either you are big or non existent. Nigeria cannot growth this way. AAASME aimed to be the game changer. We are not Nigeria, we are Africa and gladly we have a president of Nigerian origin. Change is coming and there is no stopping it.

How best do you think Nigeria grow its economies?

African leaders have shown deep ignorance in the growth potentials and benefits of SMEs. Poverty is getting worse because of the nonchalant attitude towards investment in the sector. The time is right to invest in institutions to promote small businesses. Training is one thing, but there also has to be mentorship. As vice president of AAASME for diaspora that has been a major challenge for me, but gladly my vast experience as an entrepreneur and a successful one at that gives me the necessary tools to impact knowledge.

What are your expectations from the federal government as far as the growth of SMEs is concerned?

Nigeria does not currently have any credible SMEs financial support institution. What they have are loan sharks. I really do not want to talk about it. It is very traumatic considering how many great ideas and startups that can never see the light of day. The growth of Nigeria’s economy must come in this order: End or reduce corruption, ?building and sustaining infrastructures that make investment possible, set up a strong judiciary to act as a check to defaulters and saboteurs. There has to be dire consequences to act as a deterrent, ?embark on marketing the new Nigeria with tangible proofs of change, educate, empower and protect SMEs from the greed of large corporations and de-tribalize beneficiaries of government support. This is a good start, and we can be sure of growth thereafter.

How do you view the total reliance on oil and gas to Nigerian economy?

Oil is the blessing that has become a curse to Nigeria. While he was Minister for Technology, Prof Turner Isoun asked that i embark on a tour of the eastern part of Nigeria and report. I have never seen a people so blessed and talented than the people of eastern Nigeria. Honestly, my question at that time was what do they need Nigeria for? Those guys are amazing. I do not want to promote ethnic sentiments but if the security situation improves in the east, I shall be the first person to invest in the east. I am from the southern part of Nigeria, Delta state in particular, and I am an Ijaw man, and also the financial secretary of INC of the Americas, the umbrella body that governs Ijaw affairs in America. I am by this privileged position privy to certain information about growth in this area.

The east is years ahead in development strides and an investment haven. All they need is to create a secured environment. I am ready to back up my statements with an investment of $58,000 to SMEs I have already identified. I am a believer in the growth process. A product of Gods mercies and foresight. I know that God who has never let me down shall continue to elevate my trajectory. Every society must operate on principles that are enshrined in God’s work. America is a testament to the fact that charity, integrity, selflessness, hard work, peace and patience are necessary for growth. Amazingly those are the fruits of the spirit as described by the Bible.

How do you intend to replicate your contribution to the US GDP growth in Nigeria?

I have long desired to come home and invest my knowledge into housing scheme. I am at the final stage of arrangements with the government of a South-South state to offer free training in building technology to 3,000 youth freely.

Skills such as plumbing, electrical and AC systems would be taught to youths in this region. This is my core plan give them a fair chance to compete with their pairs in the western region of Nigeria. My company spotless in minutes, shall also donate equipment to the best students. This equipment ranges from power tools to educational materials. Also, we shall offer training in financial management of SMEs to willing and dedicated participants. Already in Bayelsa state, our feed the hungry project has catered for over 800 persons in IDP camps. The medical intervention program that i sponsored has paid for medical intervention for over 70 persons and still ongoing.

The Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, has called for the unconditional release of the incarcerated leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.

The call was made during the 2025 Igbo Day celebration held on Monday at the Alex Ekwueme Square in Awka, the Anambra State capital. The event was attended by Igbo-speaking people from Abia, Anambra, Benue, Delta, Edo, Ebonyi, Enugu, Imo and Rivers states.

Traditional rulers from the listed states also used the occasion to confer on Governor Chukwuma Soludo the title of Oku nyeru Ife (the light that rekindles light in Igboland).

The National President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Senator Azuta Mbata, represented by the Deputy President-General, Prince Okey Nwadinobi, explained that the release of Kanu was necessary, as no court of competent jurisdiction had found him guilty of any offence.

Mbata expressed confidence that freeing Kanu would bring lasting peace and stability to the region and urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to consider it a pact for the Independence Day celebration.

Speaking on the Igbo Day celebration, Mbata said it was designed to remember the Igbo who lost their lives during the civil war, as well as those who died in violent incidents across the country. He noted that the Igbo had already forgiven those who contributed to the killings but would not want such atrocities repeated.

He said:

‘We have also forgiven those who killed our people and ask them to forgive us too. We do not want a repeat of such killings in Nigeria or elsewhere. 29 September is set aside to remember our brothers and sisters brutally murdered on 29 September, 1966, and those killed across the country before and after the war.

‘We remain proud of our heroes past and look forward to new heroes. We are compelled to do the right thing at all times to one another. We call on everyone to be united. We do not want a desolate Igboland; we want to build Igboland as a destination for all.

‘We will stand up for each other to build a strong nation, a viable economy, and a united and progressive Igboland. We are not asking for special treatment but for equal rights, access and opportunities to live and make Nigeria proud.’

On his part, Governor Chukwuma Soludo, who was bestowed with the chieftaincy title of Oku nyeru Ife, appealed to President Tinubu to make the release of Kanu a top priority, saying it would speed up engagements for a better and more prosperous Nigeria.

He said:

‘We have seen the devastating effects of war, and it is crucial we prioritise peace and collaboration. I urge Ohanaeze Ndigbo to lead the charge in reviving and promoting our value system through moral transformation. I also reiterate my earlier call on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Asiwaju of Nigeria, for the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.’

While commending Ohanaeze for the honour, Soludo urged the body to regard the Igbo Day celebration as a time for sober reflection on the past and what the future holds.

‘Our future lies in having a prosperous homeland. We cannot be confined to one small geopolitical zone as the Igbo. We are very industrious people. The Igbo need Nigeria, and Nigeria needs the Igbo. The Igbo need Africa, and Africa needs the Igbo. The Igbo need the world, and the world needs the Igbo.

‘Therefore, we must hold on to the spirit of oneness and tolerance we were once known for. We are major stakeholders in the Nigerian project and must be eager to stand out and support the building of a liveable and prosperous homeland. We must not leave anyone behind.

‘The debate for Igbo liberation must not be about leaving Nigeria. The Igbo are not known for killing themselves or their guests. We need social and moral rebirth. We must stop celebrating wealth acquired through questionable means.’

Also speaking, the Anambra State President of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Mazi Chukwuma Okpalaezekwu, commended Governor Soludo for always standing for the truth. He noted that the governor’s leadership style and developmental strides were the reason he was honoured on the occasion.

According to Okpalaezekwu, although Anambra State had long been described as ‘Home for All’ and ‘Light of the Nation’, it became a reality during Soludo’s tenure.

‘We have finally become the light of the nation under Governor Soludo. Through his leadership, Anambra State has witnessed significant progress in infrastructure, security, education and other sectors,’ he said.

The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has begun a four-day annual retreat aimed at strengthening the capacity of its Directorate of Legal Services for better service delivery.

Speaking at the opening ceremony in Lagos, the Director of Legal Services, NDDC, Victor Arenyeka, said: ‘Work-focused retreats such as this are designed to provide a deliberate pause from our daily demands, allowing us reflect on the purpose of our roles, our contributions to the organisation, and the shared vision that binds us together.

‘It is during moments like this that we step away from the intense pressure of work, recharge in a stress-free environment and reignite our passion for service. These days of reflection and relaxation serve as a form of renewal, mentally preparing us to return to our duties re-energised, focused and committed to giving our very best.’

He explained that this year’s theme, ‘Innovative Strategies for Excellent Legal Service Delivery and Conflict Resolution’, reflects the Directorate’s responsibility to adopt new approaches for effective legal work and dispute resolution in a changing environment.

Arenyeka noted: ‘The Legal Directorate remains a pivotal spectrum within the NDDC and will continue to play a critical role for years to come. As the custodian of the Commission’s legal and regulatory framework, the Legal Directorate serves as a tool in advancing NDDC’s mission, from ensuring contractual integrity and regulatory compliance to fostering harmonious conflict resolutions.

‘To achieve this, it is imperative that we work in synergy by adhering strictly to established processes, maintaining transparency in all dealings, and promptly seeking legal guidance when required.

As public officers we must recognise that embracing new strategies is not optional but essential. In so doing, we collectively strengthen the integrity of our operations and uphold the values of accountability and excellence that define the NDDC’s mission.’

In his keynote address, Dr. Babatunde Ajibade, SAN, recommended arbitration as one of the approaches the Directorate could adopt.

He said: ‘There is a general acknowledgement that in commercial matters arbitration is a viable alternative to litigation. This is more so given the congestion and delay that is experienced in many of our courts.

That aside, arbitration has a few other advantages over litigation. It affords the parties the opportunity to discuss and agree in advance of any dispute arising, the manner in which the dispute will be resolved, the qualifications and possibly the identity of the person or persons who will be entrusted with resolving the dispute.’

Kebbi State Governor, Nasir Idris, has assented to the N43.29 billion revised 2025 appropriation bill passed by the State House of Assembly, signing it into law.

Governor Idris commended the lawmakers for their cooperation with the executive, describing the cordial relationship as beneficial to the people of Kebbi State.

‘I appreciate the House of Assembly for being alive to its responsibilities and working closely with the executive for the betterment of our people.

‘The House has truly demonstrated that it belongs to the people, and since the inception of this administration, we have never had any disagreement.

‘Anything we bring to the House always passes through the required legislative processes after thorough scrutiny. This shows the commitment of the Assembly to doing a clean job for the state,’ he said.

In his remarks earlier, the Speaker of the House, Usman Muhammad-Zuru, pledged the Assembly’s continued cooperation with the executive in driving development across the state.

He explained that the passage of the revised bill followed exhaustive deliberations to align its provisions with prevailing fiscal realities and development priorities.

Zuru disclosed that during plenary, the House considered a motion by Hashimu Usman Yauri (APC) calling on the government to rename the newly constructed Government Girls Secondary School, Tsamiya, Tundi, Yauri Local Government Area, after the Emir of Yauri, Dr. Muhammad Zayyanu-Abdullahi.

He noted that the school would henceforth be known as Sarki Muhammad Zayyanu-Abdullahi Girls Secondary School, Tsamiya, Tundi, Yauri, all in Yauri LGA.

Disqualified Big Brother Naija Season 10 housemate, Faith Adewale, professionally known as Faith, has received a warm embrace from his father, who reassured him of unwavering love and support despite the setback.

In a now-viral video on social media, Faith’s father encouraged him with uplifting words, saying, ‘Don’t worry, you’re great, don’t worry, you’ve done well, no doubt about that. You are fantastic. We love you. It shall continue to be well. Nobody can truncate your destiny.’

Faith was disqualified on Thursday following a heated altercation with fellow housemate, Sultana, which turned physical, a violation of the show’s no-violence rule.

The organisers immediately ordered his removal from the house.

The disqualification makes it 9 housemates remaining in the house for the finale.

Recently, Continental Hotels proudly joins millions of Nigerians in celebrating the nation’s journey of resilience, culture, and innovation as Nigeria celebrated its 65th Independence anniversary.

The Group General Manager, Continental Hotel Group, Mr Karl Hala, in a release said ‘Today is not only a celebration of our history but also a commitment to the future-a future where Nigerian hospitality stands tall as a beacon of African excellence.

He sad: ‘At Continental Hotels, we believe the strength of Nigeria lies in its people-an energetic, vibrant, and high-tech generation ready to redefine global hospitality.

‘This is why we invest not just in buildings and infrastructure but also in developing Nigeria’s youth, championing authentic culture, and delivering farm-to-table experiences that showcase Nigerian cuisine on the world stage.

‘This year has been marked by remarkable transformation for us:’In Abuja, we unveiled our Deluxe Rooms in Tower 2A, setting a new standard for comfort and style. Additionally, the Ladi Kwali Conference Centre now features advanced soundproof partitioning, reinforcing the capital’s position as a hub for global business.

‘We have invested in WiFi 7 infrastructure across our hotels-the first of its kind in Nigerian hospitality-ensuring seamless, world-class connectivity for both business and leisure travellers.

– Across Abuja and Lagos, our wellness upgrades powered by Technogym include Nigeria’s first Group Cycle formats, Excite Live personalized training, and the innovative Selection 900 virtual strength coach, all of which are redefining fitness and lifestyle in Nigerian hospitality.

Abuja Continental was honored with the Capital City Excellence Award 2025, while Lagos Continental, a landmark in our nation’s commercial capital, proudly received the Timeless Elegance Award 2025.

Looking ahead, we are ‘Going Artisan All Out,’ committing to authentic, sustainable farm-to-table dining that supports Nigerian farmers, promotes local agriculture, and delivers unforgettable experiences to travelers from around the world.

As Nigeria continues its transformation, so do we. Together, we are building a future where hospitality is more than just service-it embodies excellence, authenticity, and connection, proudly Nigerian and proudly African.

The traditional ruler of Obosi community in Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State, His Majesty, Igwe Chidubem Iweka, has decried alleged defamation of character by a Catholic priest in the state for warning against fraudulent land deals in his domain.

Igwe Iweka, who is also the Chairman of the Anambra State Traditional Rulers Council, told newsmen at his palace on Thursday that Obosi community has zero tolerance for land grabbing or illicit business transactions capable of causing a breakdown of law and order and tarnishing the image of the town.

The warning followed alleged inappropriate conduct by a Catholic priest in the community, Rev. Fr. Jude Uchegbusi of ‘Olu Ndi Enuigwe Adoration Family Obosi’, who was accused of maligning the monarch’s name over his mediation in a land dispute between the priest and Mr Raphael Ojiribe, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Raphmaths Estates.

He urged the authorities of the Catholic Archdiocese of Onitsha to call the priest to order to avoid crisis in Obosi community.

Igwe Iweka expressed concern that an ordained priest would descend so low as to involve miscreants in threatening him and his cabinet members because they tried to arbitrate in the land dispute between the priest and the land developer.

The monarch said he had petitioned the Catholic Archbishop of Onitsha and Metropolitan of Onitsha Ecclesiastical Province, Most Rev. Valerian Okeke, against the priest, in a letter titled ‘Unchristian conduct and activities of Rev. Fr. Uchegbusi’, but alleged that the priest had continued to act as if he were above the law and beyond church authority.

According to him, ‘The Catholic Archbishop had earlier intervened by delegating a team of senior church leaders to my palace, and the people that came were priests I hold in high regard, but that did not yield any positive result because the priest did not respect the far-reaching decisions we made and is still causing trouble.

‘The priest and his co-travellers have been defaming me and castigating my name because I tried to arbitrate in his case with Mr Ojiribe. Should I be crucified for intervening in a matter in my community or for telling the truth?

‘I deliberately refused to involve the police in this matter because the Archbishop cannot be involved in settling the matter, while I, on the other hand, would be involving the police in the same issue. To me, that would be disrespectful to the church and the Archbishop. I therefore call on him again to expedite action in calling the priest to order. He cannot come to Obosi and be raising fists at us. And as a man of God, we expect better behaviour, due process in his dealings, and integrity, which we have not seen from him.

‘I reported the threats to my life from people who identified themselves as ESN members to the DSS when they were bold enough to tell me they would kill me if I disturbed the Rev. Fr again. One of them even called me and said he was in front of my palace and wanted to see me, but I did not give him audience. I have the numbers they were using to call.’

Reacting, the Catholic priest, Rev. Fr. Uchegbusi, denied the allegations against him and accused the Umuopi family of using their youths and Mr Ojiribe to destroy church property in the area.

He said that the property was not his personal property but that of the Catholic Church, which acquired the land 15 years ago, adding that he only resided there to oversee church activities in the area.

According to the priest, ‘Part of the land was acquired by the Federal Government to allow the construction of the 2nd Niger Bridge. It has developed, and the youths of Obosi felt that they could extort more money from me after all we have spent there. In fact, their plan is to eject us and resell the land.’

The Nigerian Tribune gathered that the Umuopi family in Ire village, Obosi, represented by its Chairman, Mr Kenechukwu Nwokolo, and other principal members of the family, has petitioned the Prefect of the Dicastery for the Clergy in Vatican City, His Eminence Most Rev. (Cardinal) Lazarus You Heung-Sik, against Fr. Uchegbusi.

They also petitioned the Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Zone 13, Ukpo, Anambra State, against the priest.

The petition, signed by their lawyer, Mr Justus Uche Ijeoma, was titled ‘A case of criminal trespass to land, fraudulent dealing in land, attempt to incite murder, threat to life and conduct likely to cause breach of public peace by Rev. Fr. Jude Uchegbusi’.