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The Federal High Court in Abuja has sacked Rep Abubakar Gummi, for defecting from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to All Progressives Congress (APC).

Gummi, represents Gummi/Bukkuyum Federal Constituency of Zamfara in the House of Representatives,

Justice Obiora Egwuatu, in a judgment, restrained the Speaker, House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, from further recognising Gummi as member representing Gummi/ Bukkuyum Federal Constituency.

Justice Egwuatu also made an order directing the Independent National Electoral Commission. (iNEC) to conduct fresh election to fill the vacancy fot the constituency within 30 days from the day of the judgment.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that though the judgement was delivered on Thursday, the certified true copy was sighted on Friday.

The suit, marked: FHC/ABJ/CS/1803/2024, was filed by the PDP and its state’s Chairman, Jamilu Jibomagayaki, as 1st and 2nd plaintiffs.

The duo, in the originating summons dated Nov. 28 but filed Nov. 29, 2024, by Ibrahim Bawa, SAN, had sued Hon Abubakar Suleiman Gummi; Speaker of the House of Representatives and INEC as 1st to 3rd defendants respectively.

The plaintiffs had set out four questions for determination and sought nine reliefs for determination.

They asked whether having regard to the provision of Section 68 (1) (9) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), it was not unconstitutional for Gummies to retain his seat as member in the house.

They said he defected from PDP which sponsored him for the election to Gummi/Bukkuyum Federal Constituency to APC, when there was no division in the party, among other questions.

One of the reliefs sought was a declaration that it was unconstitutional for the speaker to refuse/fail to declare Gummi’s seat vacant.

Gummi, in his response through his lawyer, filed a notice of preliminary objection and a counter affidavit.

The lawmaker, in his argument, argued that his decampment was due to the crisis within the PD..

He said contrary to the deposition of the plaintiffs, the lingering unresolved internal and external crisis both at the national level and in his constituency is the reason for his defection from the party to APC.

Gummi said the crisis resulted into a state where he could no longer represent his constituents properly and ensure that they all benefit from shared distribution of the dividends of democracy within the bounds of law, and without undue interference from anyone or anything.

Delivering the judgment , Justice Egwuatu granted all the plaintiffs’ reliefs.

The judge condemned the attitude of some politicians who see defection as a normal culture.

‘Before I take my fingers off the key board, let me just add, that politicians should respect the wishes of the electorates that elected them into office.

‘A situation where the electorates have made their choices between different political parties and their candidates based on the manifestos and marketability of such a political party, it is legally and morally wrong for such a politician to abandon the party under which platform he or she was elected into office and move to a rival party without relinquishing the mandate of his or her former party.

‘If a person must decamp, don’t decamp with the mandate of the electorates.

‘Don’t transfer the votes garnered on the platform of one party to another party.

‘A politician has no such rights to transfer votes of a political party to another political party.

‘The law must punish such moves by taking away the benefits bestowed upon the decampee politician by the electorates.

‘And that is what Section 68 (1) (g) of the Constitution has done.

‘Political prostitution must not be rewarded.

‘In total, I resolve all the issues in favour of the plaintiffs and against the defendants,’ Justice Egwuatu said.

The judge, therefore, ordered that Gummi , having defected from PDP to APC ‘before the expiration of the period the house was elected, automatically loses his seat as member of the House of Representatives.

He made an order restraining Gummi from further receiving monies as salaries, allowances or howsoever called in his capacity as member representing the constituency.

He also made an order directing the lawmaker to refund to the Federal Government all monies collected as salaries, allowances or howsoever called as member representing the constituency from Oct. 30, 2024 to the date of judgment.

‘An order is made directing that the evidence of the refund of all monies collected as salaries, allowances or howsoever called be filed in the registry of this court within 30 days of the judgment of this court,’ he said.

Justice Egwuatu consequently awarded a fine of N500, 000 in favour of the plaintiffs and against the defendants.

No fewer than 34.7 million Nigerians across 27 States and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) may face severe food and nutrition insecurity between June and August 2026, according to the latest Cadre Harmonisé (CH) food insecurity report released on Friday in Abuja.

The report, unveiled during the Results Presentation Workshop on the October 2025 Cadre Harmonisé Food and Nutrition Insecurity Analysis, also revealed that about 27.2 million people, including over 485,000 internally displaced persons (IDPs), are currently experiencing crisis or worse phases of food insecurity from October to December 2025.

The Cadre Harmonisé analysis is produced by the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (FMAFS) with technical support from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations and other development partners.

Declaring the workshop open, the Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Dr. Marcus Ogunbiyi, described the findings as a ‘wake-up call’ that demands urgent and coordinated action to avert a worsening crisis next year.

‘The results we are examining today go beyond data; they speak to the realities of millions of Nigerian households, especially those in vulnerable and crisis-affected areas. We must treat these findings as a call to sustained and coordinated action,’ Ogunbiyi said.

While the report noted a slight easing in inflation and consumer price index (CPI) rates, it observed that food insecurity remains widespread across the country. Over 55 percent of households maintaining acceptable food consumption levels reportedly relied on coping mechanisms such as eating fewer-quality meals, reducing portion sizes, or borrowing money to purchase food.

The CH analysis attributed persistently high food prices, particularly for vegetable oil, dairy products, meat, and condiments to the volatile naira-dollar exchange rate and high transport costs. Prices of these essential items reportedly rose by more than 35 percent in the review period.

‘Even though staple food prices have stabilized somewhat, the cost of complementary food items and services such as food haulage remains high. This has increased household food expenditure and eroded purchasing power,’ the report stated.

The findings also showed that insecurity, high input costs, and weak rural economies continue to undermine agricultural livelihoods, particularly in the North-East, North-West, and parts of the North-Central regions. Farmers in these areas face restricted access to farmlands due to insurgency, banditry, and kidnapping.

The rising cost of fertilisers and agrochemicals up by about 56 percent has discouraged many farmers from participating in the forthcoming 2025/2026 dry-season farming. Additionally, while food import programs have helped ease consumer prices, they have also hurt local producers, leading to losses during the 2025 cropping season.

The nutrition situation in several northern states remains critical, with Borno, Yobe, Adamawa, Katsina, and Jigawa classified between ‘Serious’ (Phase 3) and ‘Critical’ (Phase 4) levels of malnutrition. Areas such as Maiduguri, Jere, and Mobbar in Borno, as well as Jibia and Mashi in Katsina, have crossed into emergency phases of acute malnutrition.

However, the situation in Benue State showed some improvement, as IDP camps in Makurdi and Guma recorded ‘Acceptable’ to ‘Alert’ nutrition levels, attributed to ongoing targeted interventions.

The CH report also highlighted areas experiencing crisis-level mortality (Phase 3), including parts of Central and Northern Borno, Southern Adamawa, and Eastern Sokoto, while emergency-level mortality (Phase 4) was reported in Eastern Borno and Northern Adamawa.

According to the report, four key factors are driving the worsening food and nutrition crisis: insecurity (including insurgency, kidnapping, and banditry), climate shocks such as floods and prolonged dry spells, displacement from conflict and disasters, and the adverse effects of government food imports on local production.

The FAO Representative in Nigeria and ECOWAS, Dr. Hussein Gadain, commended Nigeria for sustaining its commitment to the Cadre Harmonisé process over the past decade but urged immediate, multi-sectoral action in response to the alarming findings.

‘Conflict, climate extremes, and economic pressures are undermining livelihoods and food systems across the country. The Cadre Harmonisé remains our most relevant early warning tool for guiding humanitarian and development responses,’ Gadain said.

He called on states yet to participate in the CH process to do so before the March 2026 cycle to ensure comprehensive national coverage and stronger data reliability.

Both officials affirmed that the CH findings will guide the implementation of government interventions, including the National Agricultural Growth Scheme and Agro-Pocket (NAGS-AP) and the National Food Security and Nutrition Emergency Plan.

The Cross River State Government has inaugurated a robust consultative process aimed at repositioning the economy for competitiveness, inclusivity, and sustainable growth through the formulation of its first-ever State Trade Policy.

The stakeholder engagement, held on Thursday at Pristine Villa Events Centre, Calabar, marked a decisive step in shaping a coherent trade framework that aligns with both national and continental development aspirations.

Declaring the engagement open, Commissioner for Commerce, Dr. (Mrs.) Abigail Orok Duke, described the initiative as ‘a bold step toward unlocking the full trade potential of Cross River State and positioning it competitively within national, regional and global markets.’

She noted that trade remains a vital lever for prosperity and inclusive growth, underscoring Governor Bassey Otu’s People First economic vision.

‘Trade is the foundation of prosperity,’ Dr. Duke affirmed. ‘Our goal is to strengthen value chains, promote inclusivity, and create jobs by linking our State’s productive sectors-agriculture, manufacturing, tourism, services, and the creative industries, to expanding market opportunities.’

The high-level engagement, jointly organised by the Ministry of Commerce and the State Trade Policy Development Committee, brought together senior government officials, private sector leaders, academia, and development partners. Discussions revolved around the theme:

‘Building an Inclusive and Competitive Trade Policy for Sustainable Growth and Job Creation in Cross River State.’

The session served as a rallying point for developing a trade framework that will anchor the State’s economic diversification agenda.

Delivering the keynote address titled: ‘The role of trade policy in driving state competitiveness and job creation,’ Professor Susana Ohen, Chairman of the Trade Policy Development Committee, emphasized the importance of aligning Cross River’s trade ambitions with key continental and regional frameworks such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), the ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme (ETLS), and the National Trade Policy (2023-2027).

‘A coherent Trade Policy will serve as an anchor for inclusive development,’ Prof. Ohen stated. ‘It will connect our smallholder farmers, MSMEs, and industrial actors to markets, stimulate private investment, and drive job creation across the value chain.’

Other presentations added intellectual depth to the session. Professor Lionel Effiom of the University of Calabar’s Department of Economics presented an ‘Overview of the State Trade Landscape and Policy Development Process,’ while Mr. Kelly Ayamba, FCA, President of CALCCIMA, delivered insights on ‘Sectoral Perspectives: Trade Opportunities and Challenges.’ Both speakers underscored the urgency of institutionalizing a trade policy that will foster innovation, expand market access, and strengthen industrial linkages across key sectors.

The engagement also featured interactive breakout sessions facilitated by Mr. Kenneth Ittah, Mr. William Itorok, and Dr. Osas Omorogbe, during which participants examined sectoral priorities, challenges, and actionable strategies for trade facilitation. Discussions covered a broad range of areas including agriculture and agro-processing, manufacturing and industrialization, tourism, entertainment and cuisine, solid minerals, services, energy, transportation, forestry, and fisheries. The plenary session that followed harmonized the outcomes into a shared roadmap for policy drafting.

In her closing remarks, Mrs. Philomena Nyiam, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, expressed appreciation to participants for their commitment to a shared vision of economic transformation. ‘This process is consultative by design,’ she remarked. ‘The Ministry will continue to engage all stakeholders as we move toward drafting, validating, and adopting a Trade Policy that reflects our State’s aspirations for inclusive and sustainable growth.’

Goodwill messages from the Cross River Planning Commission, CALCCIMA, and development partners reaffirmed support for the process, with many describing the initiative as a milestone in creating a trade-enabling environment capable of attracting investment, boosting production, and generating employment.

With this bold start, Cross River State has signaled its readiness to chart a new economic course anchored on competitiveness, partnership and shared prosperity.

Businessman, Prof. Prince Godwill Richman has declared his intention to contest the 2027 governorship election in Akwa Ibom State on the platform of People’s Democratic Party (PDP).

Announcing his ambition in a statement to the people, Richman said his decision was driven by a sense of duty and a commitment to restoring Akwa Ibom’s place as a model of development and progress.

He pledged to transform the state into ‘Africa’s Modern Dubai’ in two years, emphasising innovation, industrialisation, and inclusive prosperity as key pillars of his vision.

‘I am determined to restore Akwa Ibom State to its rightful place on the international stage of development and progress, a position it held under PDP,’ he said.

Richman reaffirmed his respect for PDP’s zoning and rotational principle, promising to serve only one term of four years to complete the two-term slot of the Ibibio in Uyo Senatorial District.

‘I am prepared to sign a binding agreement to that effect, as my ambition is not driven by personal interest but by a desire to preserve peace, fairness, and political stability in our state,’ he said.

Outlining his mission, he said his administration would focus on youth empowerment, women inclusion, sustainable development, and infrastructural excellence.

He expressed his intention to make Akwa Ibom a state that competes economically and politically with advanced regions around the world.

Prof. Richman called on party leaders, elders, youths, and women to join him in what he described as a collective movement toward ‘Hilltop Mansion 2027.’

He urged the PDP at both the state and national levels to grant him the opportunity to serve, promising to make Akwa Ibom ‘the pride of Nigeria and a beacon of hope for Africa.’

‘With your trust and God’s guidance, we shall make Akwa Ibom State the pride of Nigeria and a beacon of hope for Africa,’ he added.

I was born on November 7, 1955, in Ipesi Akoko, into the Oke Dofin ruling house. My late father, Oba Peter Odu Amodeni, was the immediate past Olupesi of Ipesi Akoko, and my mother, Lydia Wuraola Amodeni, was the Olori. I was also blessed with a stepmother, Ayaba Amodeni, whom I hold in high regard due to the role she played in my upbringing.

I started life on a very humble note. I attended St. Philip’s Primary School, Shagamu, Ogun State, while serving as a houseboy to the late Reverend M. R. Alabi for five solid years. It wasn’t because my parents couldn’t provide for me; it was destiny. My father had consulted an oracle in Kogi, and he was told to send me away to serve. That experience taught me discipline, humility, and endurance, which shaped the man I later became.

What was your early life like growing up?

In 1969, I gained admission into Methodist High School, Ibadan. To be honest, I never enjoyed reading. I was not a ‘book person.’ I was promoted on trial, and that made my parents very unhappy. They moved me to Victory College, Ikare-Akoko, where I continued from Form 2. But I still didn’t like reading. From Form 2 to Form 5, I was always promoted on trial. I completed my secondary school in June 1973, but I didn’t perform well.

If there was a record for failure, I broke it-not because I lacked intelligence, but because academics didn’t excite me. I was more practical-minded, even at that age.

Why do you think you performed poorly in school?

I discovered early that I had a business instinct. While in school, I sold second-hand clothes and even rented them to classmates who wanted to attend disco parties. That was my first taste of entrepreneurship.

When I finished school, some of my classmates had excellent grades-Grade 1, 2, or 3. The only paper I passed was Yoruba, and I got a P8. I thank God today that I failed because if I had passed, I might have ended up as a civil servant or a schoolteacher. With my outspoken nature, I doubt I’d have lasted long in such a system.

I returned to school in 1974 to repeat my exams. This time, I paid my fees myself from my business. Four of us sponsored my education together, including me. Again, I didn’t do well. Later, I attended Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo, where I obtained my Higher National Diploma. I only went because, in Nigeria, people respect certificates more than competence. I wanted to satisfy my parents, not because I needed it for success.

Before most of my mates graduated, I had already built a house and bought cars. My company, Sholagbade Enterprises, was thriving. I was trading, supplying goods, and winning contracts long before I got my HND.

How easy was it to succeed in business back then?

It was far easier to succeed through hard work and integrity. You could get jobs or contracts based on merit. Civil servants didn’t compete with contractors like today. The society was structured, with a clear distinction between the lower, middle, and upper classes. I rose to the middle class early in life through business.

God blessed me at a young age. I became one of the first young men in Ondo and Ekiti States to own a brand-new Mercedes-Benz. I was among the major contractors for the then Federal Polytechnic, Akure. The warehouse that later became the Great Hall was built by my company, Sonicom Nigeria Limited.

I was also the first private person to supply drinkable water by tanker in old Ondo State. I sold raw foodstuffs in Akure and supplied food to Federal Polytechnic Akure (now Federal Polytechnic Ado-Ekiti). Later, I handled construction projects for the army at Ekenwan Barracks in Benin City and for the Nigeria Prison Service-now Correctional Service-where I built 12 classroom blocks at Olokuta.

I also handled projects for the Federal College of Agriculture, Akure (FECA), including the office complexes near Denki Wire and Cable. I even constructed Wema Bank’s branch on Taiwo Road, Ilorin. Those were challenging but fulfilling projects that taught me persistence and discipline.

What’s your greatest regret at 70?

My greatest regret is that my mother stopped me from learning a trade when I tried to become an automobile mechanic in 1971. If I had acquired that skill, it would have complemented my business life. I believe that practical skills are as important as formal education.

Still, I thank God. My life followed divine direction. If I had been a straight-A student, I would have ended up in an office job, bound by rules. That’s not who I am. I’m happy that I found my calling early, creating jobs and speaking truth to power.

When did you venture into politics, and what inspired you?

I ventured into politics quite early, during the era of the late Baba Adekunle Ajasin. Initially, I wasn’t a politician per se; I joined their campaign train to seek opportunities for business patronage. But that experience drew me closer to public service.

My first breakthrough came through that involvement. I was awarded a contract to build a health clinic in Imoru (now in Ose Local Government Area). The project cost N75,000 at the time, which is equivalent to several hundred million naira today. That single contract transformed my life and gave me the confidence to pursue bigger goals.

Who were your contemporaries in politics in those early years?

I have been in politics for over 35 years. My first major contest was for the state chairmanship of the National Republican Convention (NRC). I worked closely with respected leaders like Adamu Ciroma, the late Dr Bode Olowoporoku, and Chief Lawrence Agunbiade. Back then, Ondo and Ekiti were still one state.

Later, I became a foundation member of the Alliance for Democracy (AD). I was also among the youngest NADECO activists in the Southwest and a member of Afenifere. I followed the likes of Baba Adefarati to Ijebu-Igbo for strategic meetings.

After General Sani Abacha’s death, when political activities resumed, we initially joined the All People’s Party (APP). However, Chief Bola Ige insisted that progressives couldn’t stay there, so we pulled out and formed the Alliance for Democracy. I contested and won the chairmanship of Akoko Southeast Local Government.

Even President Olusegun Obasanjo, who rarely praised opposition politicians, recognised my work and awarded me the Best Local Government Chairman in Nigeria.

What were your major achievements as Local Government Chairman?

I introduced a poverty alleviation programme, which was later adopted at the national level by the PDP. I even mortgaged some of my personal property to lease heavy equipment, like pay loaders and graders, for council use. This was unprecedented at that time.

I built information centres in all six major towns in my local government and provided vehicles for traditional rulers. My focus was on human capital development and infrastructure. I didn’t see local governance as a place to enrich oneself but as a platform to serve.

You later served as Commissioner under two governors. What was that like?

Yes, I served as Commissioner under Dr Olusegun Mimiko for 23 months and later under the late Governor Rotimi Akeredolu. Both experiences were quite different but equally valuable.

I am known for speaking truth to power. Whenever I feel that a government is deviating from its promises, I step aside. That’s what I did both times. Still, I respect and cherish both men. Mimiko remains my lifelong friend-we had planned his eventual governorship for 17 years before it happened. I’m proud I was part of that journey.

You’ve been quiet in politics recently. Have you retired?

No, I haven’t retired. I’m still very active, but politics today is different. It’s now driven by money, not ideology. I’ve shown interest in becoming the APC State Chairman. But let me be clear-I won’t buy delegates or spend a kobo to get that position. If my experience, integrity, and service record don’t earn me the post, I’ll remain content.

During the impeachment crisis involving Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, I played a mediating role. I gathered stakeholders and told them the impeachment could not stand-not because I’m close to Aiyedatiwa, but because it was unconstitutional. When Akeredolu passed away and Aiyedatiwa became governor, I visited him and offered honest advice.

How would you assess Governor Aiyedatiwa’s performance?

So far, I think he’s doing well. He has continued many of the projects of his predecessor, Akeredolu, and has also initiated new ones. I’m particularly excited about plans to develop the seaport. If that project comes to fruition, it will transform Ondo State’s economy forever.

He’s also making efforts to revive the bitumen project at Agbabu. I spoke with him recently, and I’m impressed by his focus. Continuity is key in governance, and he seems committed to that.

What’s your view on President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms?

I’m one of the frontline supporters of President Tinubu, and I believe his economic reforms, though painful, are in the country’s best interest. They remind me of chewing bitter leaf-bitter at first, but sweet at the end.

Tinubu inherited a battered economy. Every sector was riddled with corruption. Repairing such damage takes time and courage. Removing fuel subsidy was a difficult but necessary decision. The short-term hardship will yield long-term benefits.

Today, we’re already seeing signs of stability. Inflation is easing, and government revenue is improving. Tinubu’s emphasis on skill acquisition, entrepreneurship, and infrastructure-especially concrete road construction-is visionary. Bitumen roads have failed us; concrete roads will last.

Do you believe President Tinubu deserves a second term?

Yes, without hesitation. He deserves a second term, not just for continuity but for the stability of Nigeria. Many governors who are defecting to the APC understand this.

However, I must be honest: many Nigerian youths need a mindset change. Too many prefer following politicians as personal assistants instead of creating opportunities for themselves. During our time, we built our lives through hard work. I built my first house before I clocked 25.

Tinubu’s reforms favour those willing to work, innovate, and endure. Quick riches don’t last. Real success comes from patience and discipline.

What would you like to see in Tinubu’s second term?

He should expand his cabinet further. Some say it’s too large, but I disagree. Nigeria’s size is equivalent to about ten West African countries combined. Governance here requires more capable hands, not fewer.

He must also enforce local government autonomy. Power should be devolved more to states and councils. When local governments function effectively, citizens feel the impact of governance directly.

Are you worried that Nigeria is gradually becoming a one-party system?

No, not at all. Politics is cyclical. There was a time the PDP controlled almost every state, except a few in the North and Southwest. The same thing will happen again after Tinubu’s second term; strong opposition will re-emerge naturally.

For now, what we need is stability and unity. Let 2027 be a stress-free election cycle that consolidates democracy.

Do you support power remaining in the South?

Yes. It has stayed long enough in the North. Fairness demands that the South continue for now.

What’s your message to Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi ahead of 2027?

They are important voices, but their approach to opposition politics is wrong. They criticise everything without acknowledging anything good. That’s not how mature opposition works.

Even when government policies are right, they refuse to commend them. Tinubu is not their enemy-he’s their rival. Constructive opposition strengthens democracy; blind criticism weakens it.

Frankly, I find it disappointing that a respected figure like Atiku joined protests demanding the release of Nnamdi Kanu. That’s beneath his stature. He’s had his time. He should now play the role of a statesman, not a street activist.

Where do you see Nigeria in the years to come?

Nigeria will rise again if our judiciary stands firm and we amend our constitution to reflect modern realities. We need a national conversation-a referendum-to determine how we want to coexist.

We are a nation of over 250 ethnic groups, yet I still believe in one Nigeria. Unity, justice, and fairness will take us far. I’m optimistic that with leaders like Tinubu showing courage, Nigeria will fulfil its destiny soon.

Senior Pastor of Life Bible Church, Akure, Ondo State, Moses Adaramola, has called on Nigerians to stop falsifying or using invalid documents for international travels in the move to secure visa.

Adaramola, president of Harvest of Nations Ministry, spoke while reacting to a viral report alleging a Nigerian pastor was deported from Canada for falsifying travel papers.

The cleric, while distancing himself from the report, condemned use of his photograph to illustrate the story, saying it is false and embarrassing.

‘Only a few are, maybe have gone there to read, and later they do fine work. Many over there are suffering.

‘So, my advice is, as a man of God, I don’t believe in falsifying documents, telling lies, just to go to another country.

‘If you find a means of going abroad, make sure you don’t cut corners. Do it according to the law. Do it in the right way,’ Adaramola said.

Pastor Adaramola lamented that many Nigerians who travel abroad through illegal or deceitful means often end up facing hardship.

He described Nigeria as a blessed nation with abundant opportunities, despite the current economic challenges.

‘Those who are travelling abroad, I used to tell them that those who ‘Japa’, it is not even the best. Even when I was preaching on the pulpit, I still mentioned it in my sermon. I’ve been in these places, except Canada, I’ve been in the UK, and I see many of these people that are going there.’

He added, ‘I know that in our country here in Nigeria now, because of the present economic situation, which is not limited to Nigeria alone, it is the same all over.

‘Only that we have our own special case. Everybody wants to just leave the country and go to another country. But if you want to go, don’t go in a dubious way. Make sure you don’t cut corners.

‘Don’t go in a way that will make you to tell lies and falsify documents and do a lot of things. It’s not good. So that’s my counsel for those who eventually want to make it to leave this country.’ the cleric said.

Pastor Adaramola also expressed shock over the use of his picture in the report about the deported pastor, which mentioned another name entirely.

‘Somebody called my attention to a report on Friday that they saw my picture and that they said that I was trying to bribe a Nigerian police so that I can be exempted from prosecution, that they have deported me from Canada.

‘And they just told me the story as it’s spreading in the social media now. And people felt that, since they see my picture, they put my picture there, but the body of the article is not my name that is mentioned.

‘So, I said they should post it to me. So when I saw it, I was so much embarrassed because, number one, I don’t think there’s any reason why my picture should be there. The name they put in that article is not my name,’ he said.

‘I’m not Lucky because they put one Lucky Bidemi in that article. I’ve not been to Canada before. I don’t even have a visa for Canada. Let alone being deported.’

The minister of God, who recently marked his 70th birthday, said the incident was particularly distressing as it coincided with his milestone celebration.

‘And as a man of God, I’m not even planning to relocate to any other country. At what age? I’m 70. And it happens at the time I’m celebrating my 70th birthday in Nigeria here. Not to talk of somebody who is seeking an asylum in any country.

‘Even the America that I’ve been going almost every day for the past 15 years, I’ve never sought any, I’ve never found any reason for me to even be a citizen of that place.

‘If I had wanted to be a citizen of America, I would have applied not even seeking asylum or telling lies that I need to seek,’ Pastor Adaramola said.

According to him, ‘For a news, reportedly painting me as somebody who has tried to fabricate lies so that they can grant me asylum, I think it’s out of place.

‘So, I’m also embarrassed to see my picture being used for such a news. So that’s just what I discovered.’

He demanded that all media platforms that published the misleading story immediately remove his photograph from their reports and issue corrections.

‘For any news to portray me as someone seeking asylum through falsehood is out of place. I’m deeply embarrassed by it,’ Pastor Adaramola stated.

The National Industrial Court in Abuja has stopped the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) from carrying out its nationwide strike aimed at shutting down the Dangote Petroleum Refinery.

In his ruling, Justice Emmanuel Sublim, granted and an interim order restraining PENGASSAN and its allies from cutting crude and gas supply to the facility. He warned that the planned strike could deal a heavy blow to Nigeria’s fragile economy.

The order also tied the hands of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) and the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) from carrying out any directive by PENGASSAN to choke supply lines to the refinery. The case has been adjourned till October 13 for hearing.

Meanwhile, Dangote Petroleum Refinery has assured Nigerians of uninterrupted supply of petroleum products, including petrol, diesel, aviation fuel, kerosene and cooking gas despite threat by PENGASSAN.

The assurance comes amid reports of a planned attack on the refinery, allegedly involving PENGASSAN members and hired thugs. According to intelligence sources, the plot seeks to disrupt critical units of the facility, particularly those responsible for petrol production.

PENGASSAN had over the weekend ordered its branches in oil majors like TotalEnergies, Chevron, Seplat, Shell Nigeria Gas, Oando and others to shut down all crude oil valves to Dangote Refinery.

‘All crude oil supply valves to the refinery should be shut. Loading operations for any vessel headed to the refinery should be halted immediately,’ the union declared.

In response, Dangote Petroleum Refinery described the directive as ‘lawless acts and sabotage against Nigeria and its people,’ stressing that the union’s claims of anti-labour practices were unfounded. The company reiterated that its recent internal reorganisation was aimed at curbing repeated sabotage within critical units and was not directed at Nigerian staff.

‘More than 3,000 Nigerians remain fully employed at the refinery and continue to have unrestricted access to the facility,’ the company said, adding that only a very small number of staff were affected by the review process.

Sources confirmed that the refinery has requested heightened protection and surveillance, warning that the alleged plot was at an advanced stage.

‘We are calling on security agencies to be on alert as this plan is targeted at crippling the operations of the refinery and preventing the supply of refined petroleum products, especially petrol,’ one source noted.

The company further alleged that the planned disruption is part of a broader strategy to undermine Nigeria’s progress in domestic refining and push the country back into dependence on imported fuel.

‘Despite the sabotaging acts of PENGASSAN and its allies, Dangote Refinery is determined to continue with uninterrupted production and supply of petroleum products to the Nigerian people and businesses,’ noted the source.

The refinery stressed that heightened surveillance is vital as intelligence reveals PENGASSAN’s plot to physically sabotage its facilities, targeting critical units to enforce shutdown threats.

The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) represents one of the most ambitious and promising undertakings in Africa’s integration agenda as critically espoused in the African Union’s Agenda 2063. With its potential to unite 55 countries into a single market of over 1.4 billion people and a combined GDP exceeding $3.4 trillion, it is a bold step towards achieving the long-held dream of Pan-African economic self-determination. It promises to dismantle artificial barriers, facilitate the return of intra-African trade, promote industrialization, and generate millions of jobs, especially for our vibrant youth that accounts for 70% of our population.

This forum is our modest contribution to ongoing efforts at ensuring that intra-African trade grows at an annual average rate of 6.6% between 2025 and 2027 and that Nigeria and other African countries achieve the revised annual GDP growth rate of 8% and that expedient steps are taken to ensure that the realisation of our collective optimism is not dampened by pervading global uncertainties.

The very great economic heights that the 55 member nation AfCFTA might attain if Africa’s economy could be fully integrated were highlighted recently by the globally renowned development economist, Professor Jeffery Sachs at the Unstoppable Africa Forum which was one of the side events of the United Nations General Assembly last month in New York. According to Sachs, AfCFTA nations with a combined population of 1.4 billion could have their integrated GDP of $3.4 trillion grown considerably like those of China and India with $18 trillion GDP and $13 trillion GDP respectively and with comparable population of 1.4 billion like that of Africa, if Africa’s economy could be fully integrated rapidly. He explained that the resultant connectivity and other benefits would enable African entrepreneurs produce more competitively at scale, boost intra African trade and increase Africa’s contribution to global trade beyond the paltry 3%.

As promising as the prospects of AfCFTA are and its catalytic impact on the realization of AU’s Agenda 2063, Nigeria has been vested with responsibility of leading Africa’s renaissance by leading development experts and even great African leaders. Nelson Mandela, the president of South Africa, 1994-1999 said ‘The world will not respect Africa until Nigeria earns that respect. The black people of the world need Nigeria to be great as a source of pride and confidence’. In the same vein, Patrice Lumumba, first Prime Minister of the Democratic Republic of the Congo 1960-1961 also said ‘The day Nigeria wakes up, Africa will never be the same again’

These are some of the important considerations that underscore the significance of this High Level Forum as well as its theme and why it was convened by NEPAD Business Group Nigeria with the full support of national and subnational governments and the Chief Executive Officer/National Coordinator AUDA/NEPAD Nigeria Honourable Jabiru Salisu Abdulahi as well as private leaders and Nigeria’s development partners.

NEPAD Business Group Nigeria is of the strong conviction that the private sector remains the engine of Africa’s transformation. Through this Forum, we aim to build actionable strategies that will strengthen Africa’s economic resilience, promote cross-border trade, and ensure inclusive prosperity for all.

We are also of the view that the true dividends of AfCFTA will only be realized if all African countries build internal capacities that would enable them engage competitively and sustainably within the African market and beyond. This is why this forum has been designed to place emphasis on Mobilising and Strengthening Africa’s Private Sector to Become Globally Competitive, which is a call to boost our productivity and competitiveness towards enhancing intra-African trade and Africa’s participation in global trade beyond the depressingly low average figure of 3%.

Prerequisites for accomplishing these laudable aspirations include the prevision of enabling business environments and the required infrastructure, human capital development to equip our youths with requisite skillset that would also enhance their capacity to innovate as well as substantial financial resources 70% of which should be mobilised domestically as enunciated under the African Union’s Agenda 2063.

While taking bold steps that are designed to accelerate the realisation of the bright prospects of AfCFTA, we must not be oblivious to external threats that could undermine its implementation. From global economic volatilities characterised by tariff wars, dwindling external financial support, to geopolitical tensions, Africa must fortify itself against disruptions that can reverse our gains and prevent us from accomplishing the targets set in AU’s Agenda 2063, Nigeria’s Agenda 2050 as well as our respective developmental and entrepreneurial aspirations. These threats require strategic foresight, policy coherence, and above all, continental solidarity amongst other considerations.

To quote a professional colleague, friend and brother Adedotun Suleiman who at his presentation at the Annual Directors Conference of the Chartered Institute of Directors Nigeria wisely counselled that:

‘As we look ahead, we must also prepare for future disruptors, artificial intelligence, cyber risks, global trade fragmentation, protectionism, and climate transitions. Each will test the governance systems we build today.

So, let us lead with foresight.

Let us invest in resilience as deliberately as we invest in growth.

Let us make adaptability our competitive edge.

Because in a world where disruption is inevitable, resilience is the ultimate advantage.

The task of leadership is to build organizations resilient enough to absorb shocks and still function, adaptive enough to learn and transform, and strong enough to own their future. And as Nigerian directors, we are the architects of that resilience.’

This also explains why we have today brought together policy makers, private sector leaders, financial institutions, development agencies, and academicians from within and outside Africa to chart practical pathways for maximizing the immense opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) – the largest trade bloc in the world- and articulating strategies for mitigating the external threats to its implementation. Our discussions should please be frank, pragmatic, and solutions-driven. This gathering is an opportunity to forge stronger partnerships, generate actionable recommendations, and align our strategies for collective progress.

Let us seize this moment to reaffirm our faith in Nigeria’s ability to shape its own destiny towards achieving the $1 trillion GDP within the context of an integrated African Market whose current GDP of $3.4 trillion is projected to reach $8.87 trillion by 2043 and possibly exceed $10 trillion by 2063 which is the terminal date of the African Union’s master plan, Agenda 2063. Let us be bold, visionary and collaborative. The road ahead may be challenging, our collective goal, a prosperous, self-reliant, and globally competitive Nigeria and African continent, is well within our reach.

Bashorun Randle, FCA, OFR, chairman, NEPAD Business Group Nigeria delivered this paper at the High-Level Business Forum on Harnessing the Private Sector for Africa’s Economic Renaissance, at Eko Hotels and Suites, Lagos.

Preparations are in full swing for the third edition of the Wale Olomu Memorial Awards and Roundtable (WOMA-R) – the annual celebration honouring the life and legacy of the late Wale Olomu, veteran journalist and pioneering entertainment editor.

At a recent meeting of the WOMA-R Steering Committee chaired by Tokunbo Ojekunle, members reaffirmed their dedication to sustaining the Awards’ founding mission of recognising

excellence in entertainment journalism and celebrating creative trailblazers whose works have defined Nigeria’s modern entertainment industry.

The Committee announced the 2025 Awards theme: ‘Unsung Legends Who Shaped Today’s Glory.’

Complementing the awards, this year’s Roundtable will focus on the theme: ‘The Impact of Entertainment Reporting on Musical Careers: Our Views.’ Both events will hold on Saturdays, 13 and 20 December, 2025, as a live two-hour broadcast on TopRadio 90.9 FM.

As in previous editions, the Roundtable will bring together respected voices bridging generations of entertainers and journalists. Those being considered for the discussion include Sunny Neji, Paul Play Dairo, Wunmi Obe, Olumide Iyanda, and The Jide Taiwo.

The Chairman also confirmed the appointment of two new advisers to the Steering Committee – Akinwale Oluwaleimu as Technical Adviser and Yinka Agboola as Public Affairs Adviser.

Past recipients of WOMA honours include Salawa Abeni, Bayo Adepetun, and Gloria Rhodes (Lifetime Achievement Awards); and Collins Enebeli, Femi Ojetunde, Nelson Brown, Oluwaleimu, Amos McRoy, Edi Lawani, Tunde Kolawole, Olisa Adibua, Femi ‘Kwame’ Aderibigbe, among others (Special Recognition Awards).

The vibrant city of Lagos has once again become a beehive of sporting activities as the 2nd Senator Abiru Mixed Team Table Tennis Championship serves off today at the Molade Okoya-Thomas Hall, Teslim Balogun Stadium, Surulere.

The three-day tournament, which runs from October 30 to November 1, features 30 teams from across Nigeria, Benin Republic and Togo, bringing together more than 150 athletes competing for a share of the ?5.5 million prize pool, an increase from ?4 million last year.

The championship, which is the first mixed team event of its kind in Africa, was established by Senator Tokunbo Abiru, founder of the Sail Innovation Lab and Empowerment Foundation, as part of his youth development and community impact initiative.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Senator Abiru, who represents Lagos East Senatorial District, reiterated his commitment to using sports as a tool for youth empowerment and social inclusion.

‘Our youth development philosophy goes beyond classrooms and computer labs. The discipline, focus, and teamwork that make great innovators are the same traits that define great athletes,’ Abiru said.

‘It was on this belief that we launched this championship to celebrate excellence, inclusion, and community spirit through sports. This year’s edition marks an exciting leap forward as the total prize money has been increased from ?4 million to ?5.5 million to reward excellence and encourage professionalism.’

The senator also revealed plans to integrate technology and entrepreneurship training into the tournament framework, allowing participants to benefit from opportunities available through the Sail Innovation Lab in Ikorodu, a centre dedicated to equipping young Nigerians with digital, creative, and entrepreneurial skills.

‘Whether it’s a racket or a keyboard, excellence is possible,’ Abiru added. ‘This initiative is designed to build a generation that combines sportsmanship, creativity, and resilience to thrive in today’s world.’

President of the African Table Tennis Federation (ITTF Africa), Wahid Enitan Oshodi, praised the senator’s consistency in promoting youth development and supporting grassroots sports in Nigeria.

‘The mixed team idea is fantastic. It gives us a platform to prepare for the next Olympics,’ Oshodi said. ‘Any talent without opportunity is a waste, and what Senator Abiru has done is to create opportunities for young players to develop themselves.’

Also speaking, the President of the Nigeria Table Tennis Federation (NTTF), Adesoji Adetayo, described the championship as a bold and innovative project that has elevated Nigeria’s standing in African table tennis.

‘Nigeria became the first African nation to host this event last year, and this year we are witnessing its evolution into an international competition,’ Adetayo said.

‘Countries like Benin Republic and Togo, who attended last year as observers, are now competing. This shows how far we’ve come in developing the sport regionally.’

Lagos State Sports Commission Director-General, Lekan Fatodu, commended the initiative as a reflection of Lagos’ strong commitment to grassroots sports and youth development.

‘This event aligns perfectly with our vision to discover and nurture young talents,’ Fatodu said. ‘It’s not just about competition; it’s about building sustainability, investment in youth, and community development. I urge every athlete to give their best and represent their community with pride.’

The event, organised in partnership with ITTF Africa and the NTTF, is expected to climax with the grand finale on Saturday, where winners will emerge and receive both monetary rewards and mentorship opportunities through the Sail Innovation platform.

The Secretary-General of the NTTF, Ilesanmi Akanni, gave the vote of thanks, appreciating the sponsors, athletes, and the media for their commitment to promoting the sport’s growth in Nigeria and beyond.