Category: The Nation – Nigeria

The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, has called on legal authorities to sanction Mr. Aloy Ejimakor, one of the lawyers representing the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, for what he described as ‘unethical conduct’ during Monday’s #FreeNnamdiKanu protest in Abuja.

Onanuga, in a post on his verified X handle, @aonanuga1956, said he was surprised to see Ejimakor among protesters led by publisher of Sahara Reporters and 2023 presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), Omoyele Sowore.

‘I spotted Aloy Ejimakor, one of Nnamdi Kanu’s lawyers, among the small group of protesters mobilised in Abuja by Omoyele Sowore. I wonder what Mr. Ejimakor was thinking when he decided to join this shambolic protest,’ Onanuga wrote.

The presidential aide argued that as a legal practitioner, Ejimakor should be mindful of the principle of sub judice, particularly as Kanu’s ongoing treason trial is still before the court.

‘The prosecution has concluded its case, and it is now incumbent upon Mr. Ejimakor and the other lawyers to mount a strong defence for Kanu,’ Onanuga said, adding that rather than focusing on legal strategy, the lawyer had ‘resorted to extra-legal tactics’ by joining ‘a career anarchist to influence the process.’

The Presidential spokesman described the protest as ‘shambolic’ and said Ejimakor’s action ‘questions his adherence to professional ethics,’ urging the relevant legal bodies to ‘consider appropriate sanctions for the unethical conduct of the bearded lawyer.’

The #FreeNnamdiKanu demonstration, organised by Mr. Sowore, disrupted movement around major parts of the Federal Capital Territory on Monday as protesters demanded the release of the IPOB leader, whose trial for alleged treasonable felony is ongoing before the Federal High Court in Abuja.

The Nigerian Army (NA) has confirmed the death of Lt. -Col Aliyu Saidu Paiko and other soldiers stopped vicious attacks on unarmed civilians in Borno State by Boko Haram Terrorists.

The operatives attached to 21 Special Armoured Brigade, Operation HADIN KAI, resisted the terrorists on October 17, at Kashimri general area of Bama local government council of Borno State, Army spokeswoman, Lt.-Col Appolonia Anele, said on Monday.

According to her, the deceased Paiko was the commanding officer of 202 Tank Battalion.

Most of the terrorists were killed in the gun battle with troops with a handful of them sustaining injuries, forcing them to abort their mission to wreak havoc in the community.

‘The troops had successfully located and destroyed identified Boko Haram camps in the area, thereby frustrating the terrorists’ plans to attack civilians and disrupt socio-economic activities in the area.

‘During the operation, the troops engaged the terrorists in a fierce gun fight and neutralised several, while others suffered injuries.

‘However, the encounter took its toll on our side, as the Commanding Officer, 202 Tank Battalion, Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Saidu Paiko, and a few other valiant soldiers paid the supreme price, as they fell in battle.

‘These brave heroes fought for the peace of our great nation, and their legacies shall endure forever. The Nigerian Army will continue to honor the weight of their sacrifices as their loss comes with the reminder of our unyielding resolve to stamp out the scourge of terrorism from our great nation, Nigeria,’ said Anele.

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, she said, commiserated with the bereaved families, adding

‘they were not just soldiers but fathers, brothers, and sons who expressed immeasurable courage by taking the last stand in the face of adversity, and we stand together in this time of grief’.

Anele said the COAS reaffirmed the army’s unwavering resolve to pursue all terrorist elements relentlessly until total peace and normalcy are restored in the region and the nation by extension.

‘In the spirit of respect and compassion, members of the public and the media are kindly advised to refrain from sharing or publishing images of personnel who have paid the supreme price during operations generally until their next of kin may have been duly informed. This is to preserve the dignity of such fallen heroes and protecting the privacy of their families,’ the Army said.

The Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) has launched its Digitisation Initiative, a flagship capacity development programme designed to equip young Nigerians with advanced digital and data analytics skills for the oil and gas industry.

The South-West edition of the event, held in Victoria Island, Lagos, marked a major milestone in NCDMB’s continued push for digital transformation, local content growth, and youth empowerment through strategic public-private partnerships.

Sponsored by Seplat Energy Plc in collaboration with NCDMB’s Human Capacity Development Division and Uniqueocean Limited, the programme’s implementing partner, the initiative will also be held across the North Central, South East, South-South, North East, and North West zones.

Speaking on behalf of the Executive Secretary, Engr. Felix Omatsola Ogbe, the Director of Monitoring and Evaluation, Abdulmalik Halilu, represented by Mohammed Ahmed, Manager, services Utilisation, congratulated the 20 high-potential participants selected for the South-West training.

‘This programme is the result of detailed planning, commitment, and collaboration between NCDMB and our partners,’ Ahmed said. ‘We expect every participant to be fully committed for the entire 18-month duration. This is not just training; it is a transformative journey.’

He emphasised that the initiative aligns with NCDMB’s mandate to close skill gaps and ensure Nigerian professionals remain globally competitive in the fast-evolving digital space.

‘See yourselves not as students but as young professionals,’ he urged. ‘Be open-minded, ready to unlearn and relearn. If you are focused and disciplined, this programme will change the trajectory of your career.’

Also addressing participants, Letty Agala of the Monitoring and Evaluation Directorate highlighted the Code of Conduct governing the programme, stressing professionalism, discipline, and accountability.

‘This programme demands responsibility,’ she said. ‘Participants must adhere strictly to attendance and conduct requirements. Absenteeism without approval will not be tolerated.’

To ensure accountability, the Board introduced a monthly reporting system for tracking progress and maintaining communication between the training centre and NCDMB.

Programme Manager, Emmanuel Adeshola of Uniqueocean Limited, said the training bridges the gap between academic learning and industry demands.

‘This initiative is about preparing Nigerians for the future of work,’ he explained. ‘It covers Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Cloud Computing, Data Analytics, and Software Development. Participants will work on real-life projects, including developing a Minimum Viable Product for equipment maintenance in the oil and gas sector.’

The 18-month curriculum adopts a blended learning model-combining physical and virtual sessions-and includes: Foundation Phase (12 weeks): Core digital literacy and essential tools for the oil and gas sector, advanced Phase (14 weeks): In-depth training in AI, Cloud Computing, Data Analytics, and Software Development and incubation Phase (3-18 months): Industry placement or start-up support culminating in a capstone project.

Each participant will receive accommodation, health insurance, laptops, and stipends, reflecting an estimated ?20 million investment per trainee by NCDMB and partners.

Principal Consultant of Uniqueocean, Olayanju Olasunkanmi, described the programme as ‘a professional engagement rather than a classroom exercise.’

‘NCDMB’s investment in you is enormous. You are not just trainees-you are employees for the next 18 months,’ he said. ‘Our goal is to see you evolve into innovators capable of building solutions that impact Nigeria’s economy.’

The Digitisation Initiative is part of NCDMB’s broader Human Capacity Development agenda aimed at accelerating local participation and boosting Nigeria’s digital readiness in the oil and gas sector.

Through such forward-looking initiatives, NCDMB continues to nurture local talent, strengthen the digital ecosystem, and position Nigerian youths for leadership in the global digital economy.

The President of Nigeria Institution of Estate Surveyors and Valuers (NIESV), Prince Victor Alonge, has said he has fostered the development of Yoruba culture.

He spoke when the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, conferred the chieftaincy title of Awokose Omoluabi Oodua on him.

Alonge expressed gratitude to Ooni, saying: ‘I accept this title with absolute humility and stance of responsibility. I accept it as a show of love and kindness, also recognition. I promise to continue to do my best to uplift my community and my profession.

‘The profession gave me the platform to express myself. I thank those who are responsible for the establishment of the profession in Nigeria.’

He urged the Federal Government to prioritise the role of professionals in nation-building.

‘There is nothing in terms of ideas and knowledge that we have in Nigeria that each profession cannot provide. It is for the government and those in power to recognise and accept while evolving.’

The monarch hinged his decision to give chieftaincy title to Alonge on his contributions to human development and commitment to promoting peace, unity and cultural heritage.

He urged him to use the new positions to further promote Oduduwa race globally.

Operatives of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) have apprehended the driver of a Mercedes Benz truck after a fatal accident claimed the life of a pedestrian along Osborne Road, Ikoyi, Lagos.

The incident occurred along Simpson Street, inward Ikoyi, near the Osborne Expressway Traffic Light Junction, when the truck, with registration number KRD 466 XJ, reportedly suffered a mechanical brake failure while moving at high speed.

Eyewitnesses said the driver, in a desperate bid to avoid crashing into vehicles ahead, lost control of the vehicle and veered off the road, hitting a pedestrian who was walking by the roadside. The victim died instantly.

LASTMA officials on duty at the scene were said to have moved swiftly to cordon off the area, preventing further accidents and ensuring free vehicular movement around the busy corridor.

The truck driver was immediately apprehended by LASTMA personnel and handed over to security operatives from the Dolphin Estate and Ikoyi Police Divisions for further interrogation and legal action.

Police officers later evacuated the remains of the deceased to a mortuary in Ebute Metta, pending formal identification by the family.

Reacting to the incident, the General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, described the occurrence as ‘tragic and preventable,’ while extending condolences to the family of the deceased.

He said the accident was another reminder of the need for proper vehicle inspection and maintenance, especially among operators of heavy-duty and articulated vehicles.

Bakare-Oki urged all motorists, particularly truck drivers and fleet operators, to carry out thorough mechanical checks before setting out, with special attention to the braking system.

‘Mechanical negligence and poor maintenance culture remain among the leading causes of avoidable fatalities on our roads,’ he said.

He commended the prompt and coordinated intervention of LASTMA operatives and the police, assuring that the agency will continue to uphold safety and discipline on Lagos roads.

Former Ekiti State governor, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, has described the incumbent governor, Biodun Oyebanji, as his greatest achievement.

He lauded the governor’s outstanding performance, visionary leadership and commitment to continuity in governance.

Fayemi gave the commendation at Ijelu-Ekiti during the inauguration of Itapa-Ijelu-Omu Road, one of the numerous projects completed by the Oyebanji administration as part of activities marking its third anniversary.

The ex-governor expressed delight that his successor had not only built on his administration’s legacy, but had also surpassed expectations in the delivery of good governance.

‘Absolutely, he is my greatest achievement. I have my own imperfections, but those imperfections he has managed to correct or reduce. God has indeed been kind to us in Ekiti by blessing us with a governor who is focused on transformation rather than unnecessary politicking at the expense of development.’

The former governor said the success of the Oyebanji administration validated his belief in purposeful and people-centred leadership, adding that the governor’s track record within three years justified the decision of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the people of Ekiti to rally behind him for the 2026 governorship election.

Fayemi praised Oyebanji for prioritising infrastructure development, particularly road building and rehabilitation, which, according to him, had boosted commerce, improved connectivity and eased transportation across the state.

He said the new roads built and inaugurated under the Oyebanji government were strategic to Ekiti’s economic growth, linking key agricultural zones, business communities and tourism corridors to major urban centres.

‘I want to thank our governor for not disappointing us and for holding firmly to his faith in God and commitment to truth. He has delivered on the task of governing Ekiti and is leaving it better than we left it.

‘We have every reason to be proud of him and no reason to abandon him.’

Highlighting the governor’s performance, Fayemi listed several roads initiated by his administration but completed by Oyebanji, including Itapa-Ijelu-Omu, Omisanjana-Atlas, Agric Olope-Moferere, Ijurin-Ayegunle, GRA Third Extension, Ikole-Ara-Isinbode, and Ikere-Ilawe roads, among others.

Oyebanji thanked his predecessor for laying the solid foundation upon which his administration had continued to build.

He said the achievements recorded so far were the result of collective efforts of successive administrations united by a common vision for a prosperous Ekiti.

The governor described the event as a demonstration of the gains of continuity in governance, stressing that development became faster when leaders built on the legacies of their predecessors, rather than abandoned them.

Oyebanji thanked Fayemi for breaking the jinx of discontinuity that had hindered Ekiti’s progress since its creation, noting that all road projects initiated by the previous administration, but left unfinished, had been completed.

‘I bless God for today. What is happening here speaks to what Ekiti has lost over the years due to lack of continuity. If we had been building on each other’s work since the days of Otunba Niyi Adebayo, our state would have gone far. I thank Dr. Fayemi for breaking that jinx, and I’m proud that nearly all the projects he started are now completed.’

The Owajumu of Omu Kingdom, Oba Adeoye Joseph; retired Anglican Bishop, Rev’d Michael Ipinmoye and National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) Chairman, Chief Falope Joseph, lauded Governor Oyebanji’s dedication to rural and infrastructure development.

They described the project as a lifeline that would ease movement, boost commerce and improve access to health care and education.

Thirty-Four year-old Adeleke Ruth from Akure in Ondo State, who reportedly lost two pregnancies after alleged attacks by her estranged partner, Adesola Abiodun, also from the state, has appealed to the Ministry of Women Affairs, for protection.

The family said the assault, which started two years ago, has traumatised her as she now lives in fear at her husband’s home in Akure, following threats by Abiodun to kill her ‘anywhere he finds her’.

The matter was first reported at Akure police station in 2023, but nothing has been done till date. Sources said Abiodun boasts of being ‘highly connected,’ and cannot be arrested.

On May 24, 2023, Adeleke lost a pregnancy of 24 weeks, following an alleged assault by Abiodun. Again, on November 17, 2024, Adeleke, who has a daughter for her partner, lost a 36-week pregnancy after another beating.

Doctors confirmed Adeleke suffered a ‘stillbirth and severe bleeding’ from assault.

On June 2, 2024, Abiodun was said to have attacked Adeleke’s younger brother, inflicting a cut on his ear.

It was learnt the two were never married but lived together before separating recently due to domestic assault.

‘It was after the separation that Adeleke married,’ a source said.

However, her estranged partner resurfaced months ago, and reportedly attacked her husband, breaking his arm.

The husband is receiving treatment at a hospital, the family said.

The suspect, however, fled the scene before neighbours could apprehend him.

The family said recently that Abiodun also allegedly threatens anyone who tries to protect his former partner.

A source said Adeleke is considering fleeing the country, having repeatedly reported the matter to the police with little protection or justice.

Globacom reinforced its position as a major supporter of Nigerian culture with a superlative showing at the 2025 Ofala Festival in Onitsha, culminating in a spectacular presentation of prize to winners in the Ofala promo.

The telecom giant, which has sponsored the festival for 14 years, added an exciting layer to the traditional celebration through the promo.

The festival, held at the Ime Obi, Onitsha, had two major ceremonies, the Iru Ofala on Friday and the Azu Ofala on Saturday, marking a time-honoured tradition for the people of Onitsha.

The Iru Ofala saw the Obi of Onitsha making his first public appearance after a period of spiritual retreat, a significant and symbolic moment representing his readiness to usher in a new year of prosperity for his people. The Imperial Majesty, resplendent in his traditional attire, received homage from chiefs, titled men, and subjects.

The event drew high-profile guests, including the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa; the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon Benjamin Kalu; former Deputy Speaker, House of Representatives, Emeka Ihedioha; former Governor of Anambra State, Mr Peter Obi; Director General, National Council for Arts and Culture, Obi Asika, and several others.

The Obi lauded Globacom’s long-standing support for the festival, stating: ‘We thank them for believing in us, and I trust that the mutual benefit that we all derive from the festival will continue to prevail.’

The festival’s grand finale, the Azu Ofala, was a vibrant community celebration and a day of thanksgiving. It was during this event that Globacom made the celebration even more memorable by concluding its special Ofala promo tailored for the Onitsha community.

The prizes, which were presented to winners selected from the four-week-long promo, included a brand new Kia Picanto, two tricycles (Keke), power generating sets, and grinding machines.

Chidinma Esther Obi, a businesswoman from the 33 area of Onitsha, was the winner of the grand prize-the Kia Picanto. She received the car keys from Onitsha royal chief, Chief Albert Ibekwe (the Odu Osodi), and Globacom’s representative, Tochukwu Okechukwu.

Other fortunate winners included Ibeziakor Onyebuchi Anthony and Ejike Chiememma Gloria, who each went home with a tricycle. Numerous other winners also walked away with essential tools like power generating sets and grinding machines, adding a tangible measure of joy and prosperity to the close of the 2025 Ofala Festival.

A forgery allegation raised by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, against the party leadership has deepened the crisis ravaging the main opposition party ahead of its November 15 convention in Ibadan.

The National Secretary claimed that a letter from the party on the proposed National Convention to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), which bore his signature, was fake.

In a petition to the Inspector General of Police, the Department of State Services and the INEC, Anyanwu alleged that his signature on the August 25, 2025, letter to the Commission on the convention was forged.

The convention is currently a subject of litigation at the Federal High Court in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The party’s National Working Committee (NWC) is divided.

No fewer than 14 members have signed a letter calling for the removal of the National Legal Adviser, Kamaldeen Ajibade.

Last week, Ajibade clashed in court with the National Chairman, Ambassador Umar Damagum, in the presence of Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, over legal representation.

It was during the resumed hearing in a case instituted by four state chapter chairmen against the convention.

Although Damagum had briefed Chief Chris Uche (SAN) to appear for the party, Ajibade disagreed.

He said that, as the National Legal Adviser, assigning a lawyer to represent the party was his responsibility.

Controversy over forged letter

Anyanwu claimed that a letter from the party leadership, purportedly signed by Damagum and him, which was received by the INEC on August 29, should be investigated.

Party sources said former Senate President Bukola Saraki had led a delegation that pleaded with Anyanwu to sign the letter after the last National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting.

But Anyanwu, who denied signing the letter, accused some party officials of forging his signature.

He described the action as criminal that should be investigated.

He stated in his petition dated October 15 that he never signed the August 25 letter to INEC notifying the commission about the National Convention.

In the petition titled: ‘Petition against forgery and cloning of my signature,’ Anyanwu described the forgery as ‘shocking and criminal,’ insisting that the signed document was fabricated without his consent.

The letter reads in part: ‘My attention has been drawn to an official letter to INEC, dated August 25, 2025, purportedly signed by me.

‘Regrettably, the quoted letter was never signed, authorised, or known to me.

‘It is shocking to have a forged or cloned version of my signature on such a document.’

Anyanwu urged the security agencies to ‘commence immediate investigation and prosecute those involved’.

He alleged that some PDP officials had worked ‘in collaboration with elements within INEC,’ to carry out the act.

Anyanwu said if allowed to stand, the forgery would undermine the integrity of the electoral process and the party’s internal democracy.

Rift over proposed convention

According to party sources, the ongoing crisis is the manifestation of the deep-seated acrimony between the camp of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike and the PDP Governors’ Forum.

Although the governors have begun preparations for the convention, plaintiffs in the case before the court have accused the NWC of violating the party’s constitution and internal guidelines.

Justice James Omotosho, who adjourned the case till today, however, asked parties in the suit not to do anything that would undermine the case.

The NWC was polarised by the disagreement between two legal luminaries – Chief Uche and Ajibade – who both claimed to represent the PDP in court.

Justice Omotosho asked the two lawyers to provide documentary evidence of their authorisation.

He directed all parties to exchange the documents they filed.

Ajibade: I remain Legal Adviser

Ajibade dismissed his purported removal, saying that only a national convention has the power to sack him from office.

He said: ‘I remain the authentic National Legal Adviser of the PDP,’ adding that his removal was ‘an illegal and politically motivated attempt to hijack the party’s legal machinery.’

The phrase ‘This Woman’s Work’ echoes with a depth of meaning that transcends its origins as a song by English singer-songwriter and dancer, Kate Bush. It’s a testament to the tireless efforts, unwavering dedication, and unrelenting passion of women who pour their hearts and souls into their work. For Sarah Boulos, as you will come to learn, this phrase is more than just a title – it’s a reflection of her life’s mission driven by her faith in God. Interestingly, the song ‘This Woman’s Work’ has also been covered by Maxwell, American singer-songwriter and record producer, who was deeply moved by its emotional intensity. He performed it as a tribute to a young fan with cancer who had met him on stage, showcasing the song’s universal themes of love, loss, and vulnerability.

Twenty years ago, Sarah Boulos conceptualized a vision that would become the Society for Performing Arts in Nigeria (SPAN). What began in a garage has blossomed into a thriving institution, touching the lives of over 10,000 young people across four continents. SPAN’s impact extends far beyond the stage, empowering youth with confidence, creativity, and leadership skills that stay with them for a lifetime. Much like a perfectly executed ballet, where every plié and pirouette comes together in harmony, Sarah’s work has been a choreographed dance of passion, perseverance, and purpose.

What is this woman’s work? It’s the countless hours spent nurturing talent, mentoring young artists, and advocating for the importance of performing arts education. It’s the unwavering commitment to her vision, despite the challenges and setbacks that inevitably arise. As we celebrate Sarah’s achievements, we’re reminded that this woman’s work is not just about her – it’s about the countless lives she’s touched, the families she’s supported, and the communities she’s empowered. It’s about the young dancers, musicians, and actors who’ve found their voice, their passion, and their purpose through SPAN in the last twenty years.

What is this woman’s work? It is Sarah introducing us to eleven remarkable and courageous Debutantes and their inspiring story of love, loss, vulnerability and hope and asking us to open not just our hearts but our pockets to lend a helping hand.

The maiden edition of the Queen Esther Ball has come and gone, leaving behind a trail of glittering memories and a sense of pride that lingers on like the final reverberation of a cymbal. The event was a grand jeté of a night, a spectacular whirlwind of music, dance, and drama that left the high society guests in awe. And now, the final curtains have closed on the night’s event, the technical staff have dismantled the set, the lighting and sound equipment have been carefully packed away, and the costumes and props meticulously inventoried. But even as the physical traces of the event disappear, the spirit of the Queen Esther Ball remains, a testament to the hard work and dedication of Sarah and her formidable team.

As the SPAN community heaves a sigh of relief mixed with exhilaration, we catch a glimpse of Sarah Boulos, petite but indefatigable, her gown flowing behind her like a tutu in a grand ballet, her mane of hair softly cascading onto her shoulders like a lioness as she leads the procession into the next chapter for SPAN. She is not alone; her army has swelled in ranks, ready to continue the work, to pirouette into the future with grace and determination. Like a dancer spinning effortlessly across the stage, Sarah’s momentum is palpable, drawing us into the rhythm of her vision. Her work is a beautiful arabesque of hope, stretching across Nigeria, touching lives, and leaving a lasting impression.

This woman’s work is a testament to the power of dedication, perseverance, and passion. It’s a reminder that one person can indeed make a difference, and that the ripple effects of their work can be felt for generations to come. As we pay tribute to Sarah Boulos, we ask: What is this woman’s work? It’s the realization of a dream, the manifestation of a vision, and the embodiment of a legacy. It’s a celebration of the human spirit, in all its beauty and complexity. This woman’s work will continue to inspire, to educate, and to empower. And as we look to the future, we’re reminded that this woman’s work is far from over. The dance continues, and we are all invited to join in.