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Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, his family, aides and associates on Saturday held a memorial service in honour of his late wife and former First Lady, Mrs Stella Obasanjo, twenty years after her demise.

Mrs Obasanjo died at age 59 on October 23, 2005, following a botched tummy tuck – elective liposuction – procedure in Spain.

The surgery was scheduled towards the commemoration of her 60th birthday.

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The surgeon, identified only as ‘AM’ in court, was sentenced to one year of imprisonment in September 2009.

In his autobiography, My Watch, Obasanjo had disclosed that he had no knowledge of Stella’s plan to undergo the cosmetic procedure that led to her death.

‘After the internment, I decided to look into the circumstances of her death,’ Obasanjo wrote on page 240 of Volume two of the book.

‘I found that part of her 60th birthday anniversary, which was unknown to me, was her operation for her tummy and her shape.’

Obasanjo also addressed the insinuations that his wife’s death may have been a ‘sacrifice’ he carried out for success in his job.

‘Before the verdict in Spain, I was unaware of what I came to hear later that I might have caused the death of my wife to sacrifice her for success in my job,’ he wrote.

‘That is how wicked and satanic some Nigerians can be in their rumours and mischief.’

Remembrance, 20 Years After

A memorial service was held in her honour on Saturday at the Chapel of Christ King of Glory, located within the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL), Abeokuta, Ogun State Capital.

The solemn service attracted Obasanjo, Stella’s son, Muyiwa, former Ogun State Governors, Gbenga Daniel and Ibikunle Amosun, among other prominent personalities.

Obasanjo, in a short response during an interview after the service, said ‘We are here to celebrate a life of service.’

In his testimony during the church service, John Abebe, younger brother to Stella, said the former first lady would be remembered for her infectious smile which he said always melted peoples’ hearts.

He said ‘Sister Stella was somebody you just couldn’t get angry with because she will always smile through everything, every difficulty.

‘I remember when my oldest brother passed on as soon as my sister came from Abeokuta to see my parents or to stay with my parents, everything changed in the house.

‘With her smile and huge encouragement to my parents, the grief was reduced.

‘So , when I saw this announcement a few days ago, that was what occupied my heart throughout, and I knew that whatever I was going to say today was going to be based on her smile.

Muyiwa, her only child, said, ‘She was caring and protective as an only child, most people understand that, but also strict and would not tolerate any deviation from you. So, I have kept that in mind, and I have continued to try to live my life that way.’

Speaking with newsmen, Daniel and Amosun praised Stella’s candour, saying she lived an exemplary life .

‘We thank God for her life, 20 years down line, the legacy she left behind , the son and grandchildren , we will continue to miss her motherly support.’

‘In particular during my time as governor of the state. That was why we named a motherless home after her,’ Daniel said.

On his part, Amosun said ‘She loved Nigeria. And while she was with us, when she was first, everybody could attest to the fact that she carried herself well, and she did well in that office. She promoted that office and elevated that office.

‘I will continue to pray that good Lord will grant her eternal rest.’

The Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau I. Jibrin, has said the National Assembly is currently considering 69 bills, 55 state creation requests, two boundary adjustments and 278 local government creation proposals in the ongoing review of the 1999 Constitution.

Barau, who chairs the Senate Committee on Constitution Review, disclosed this at the opening of a two-day joint retreat of the Senate and House Committees on Constitution Review in Lagos.

He reaffirmed the legislature’s commitment to delivering people-centred and timely amendments, urging members to work towards transmitting the first set of amendments to state assemblies before the end of the year.

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‘It has been a long journey engaging constituents, stakeholders and interest groups across the country, which has culminated in these proposals before us,’ Barau noted in a statement by his special adviser on media and publicity, Ismail Mudashir.

Acknowledging the complexity of the task, he called for open-mindedness and patriotism.

‘We are seated here as one committee. There should be no ‘we’ and ‘them.’ Let us be guided by the interests of Nigerians,’ stated Barau, who also serves as the First Deputy Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament.

Following latest developments, former Minister of Special Duties, Kabir Tanimu Turaki (SAN), may emerge as the next national chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at its national convention scheduled for November 15 and 16 in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.

Turaki’s potential emergence followed his endorsement as the consensus candidate by the northern leaders of the party, including its governors, after a series of meetings to balance internal zoning and stabilise the opposition ahead of the convention.

The Chairman of the National Convention Organising Committee and Governor of Adamawa State, Ahmadu Fintiri, who announced the decision, said that while the governors and stakeholders had agreed on Turaki, any aspirant dissatisfied with the consensus was free to contest.

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However, in what has become a recurring pattern in the PDP since its loss of power in 2015, the consensus arrangement immediately sparked internal revolt. Some leaders of the party in the North West, Turaki’s home zone, have rejected the governors’ endorsement, accusing them of unilateral action.

Led by the party’s National Organising Secretary, Umar Bature, and joined by stakeholders such as Mustapha Lamido, son of former Jigawa State governor Sule Lamido, the dissenting group argued that the governors did not consult the North West stakeholders before adopting Turaki as their candidate.

While this resistance adds a new twist to the PDP’s pre-convention intrigues, observers believe that with the full backing of the governors, Turaki’s emergence remains highly likely.

Yet, a former PDP governor from the North who spoke to Daily Trust on condition of anonymity said the grievance raised by the Bature-led group reflects a broader concern among many northern stakeholders.

‘It is about following the standards and rules. Nobody is saying the governors and other leaders don’t have the right to meet and take decisions on behalf of the region, but what is expected is for such to follow the laid-down standards,’ the former governor said.

‘Let’s see how far this will go at the convention,’ he added.

Addressing the discontent, Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal, the PDP’s only serving governor from the North West, said the disagreements were part of the normal political process and assured that efforts were ongoing to reconcile all aggrieved members before the convention.

‘No matter what we do, some people will still be aggrieved. Even if we bring you, some people will say no, you have an issue. It is normal; it is part of politics. What we are doing is trying to bring everybody together in the interest of this party,’ Lawal said.

‘It is an ongoing process, and I can assure you that things will be okay. It is normal to have agitation. You can see we have gone through a lot in the past, and now things are getting better day by day. I am very optimistic that we will bounce back. In fact, we are already bouncing back.

‘In the constitution of our party, there is a provision for consensus. So, there is nothing new. It is okay, it is normal, it is part of our constitution in the PDP,’ he added.

Still, Turaki’s path to the chairmanship may hinge on whether the party overcomes the legal hurdles threatening the convention. A Federal High Court in Abuja has fixed October 30 to deliver judgement in a suit seeking to halt the convention. The case, filed by some state party chairmen believed to be loyal to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, an outspoken critic of the convention plan, has become a major test for the party’s unity and readiness for transition.

In addition, a forgery petition filed with security agencies by the party’s embattled National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, another Wike ally, has added to the tension. Anyanwu alleged that his signature was forged on correspondence submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) notifying it of the convention. The party’s National Working Committee and Board of Trustees have denied the claim, insisting that Anyanwu voluntarily signed the documents. However, the outcome of the ongoing security investigation could still shape the fate of the convention.

If the PDP manages to surmount these twin legal challenges, Turaki is widely expected to emerge as the man tasked with steering the crisis-ridden opposition party away from the brink and repositioning it ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Who is Kabir Tanimu Turaki?

Although his selection came ahead of prominent figures such as former governors Ahmed Makarfi (Kaduna), Ibrahim Shekarau (Kano), and Sule Lamido (Jigawa), Turaki is no stranger to the PDP or national politics. He currently serves on the party’s Board of Trustees and has previously sought the party’s presidential ticket.

Born on April 3, 1957, in Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State, Turaki is a legal luminary with a broad practice in constitutional law, election petition litigation, commercial arbitration, cross-border and international criminal law, intellectual property, oil and gas, and mergers and acquisitions, according to his personal website. He holds the distinction of being the first indigenous lawyer from Kebbi State and the first to attain the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) from the entire North West.

Turaki was appointed Chairman of the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC) in 2012 by then-President Goodluck Jonathan. A year later, he was named Minister of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs and also served as Supervising Minister of Labour and Productivity. Jonathan further entrusted him with chairing the Presidential Committee on Dialogue and Peaceful Resolution of Security Challenges in the North, popularly known as the Boko Haram Committee, a role that cemented his position among Jonathan’s trusted northern allies.

Since the PDP’s loss of power in 2015, Turaki has remained one of Jonathan’s closest northern associates, a connection that observers say might have been considered by the northern leaders and could work in his favour, especially as some party leaders are quietly urging Jonathan to consider a comeback in 2027.

Several efforts to obtain his comments were unsuccessful, as he had yet to respond to calls and messages at the time of filing this report.

His earlier attempt at the party’s presidential ticket

Turaki’s foray into national politics dates back decades, but it was his 2018 presidential ambition that first thrust him into the centre of PDP’s internal power dynamics.

In May 2018, Turaki formally declared his intention to run for the PDP’s presidential ticket ahead of the 2019 general elections. He announced his bid in Abuja, promising to offer ‘credible, competent and inclusive leadership’ capable of uniting the country. His campaign was anchored on themes of national cohesion, rule of law and economic revival, ideals he said had been eroded by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

The Kebbi State chapter of the PDP swiftly endorsed him, describing him as one of the most credible aspirants from the North. He appointed former Adamawa State governor, Boni Haruna, as the Director-General of his campaign organisation and set up zonal coordination teams to reach delegates across the six geopolitical zones.

As the presidential primaries drew closer, Turaki emerged as one of the leading northern aspirants in a crowded field that included former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Senate President Bukola Saraki, and former Kano State Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso. His campaign emphasised his legal background, ministerial record, and reputation for consensus-building, qualities he argued were essential for repositioning the PDP after its defeat in 2015.

At the October 2018 PDP national convention in Port Harcourt, however, Turaki secured only 65 delegate votes, about 2.1 per cent of the total, far behind Atiku Abubakar, who eventually clinched the ticket.

Following the 2019 polls, Turaki maintained his influence within the PDP as a member of the Board of Trustees (BoT) and chairman of the Former Ministers’ Forum, a body that interfaces with the party’s National Working Committee on strategic decisions.

Critics, however, point out that Turaki’s modest showing in his earlier presidential bid could limit his political influence among ambitious state power blocs. Yet his admirers argue that his calm temperament, loyalty to the party through turbulent years may be exactly what the PDP needs to reassert itself as a viable opposition.

His recent legal troubles

Outside of politics, Turaki has also made the pages of newspapers recently. In February, he was arraigned before a magistrate court in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, on charges including false marriage, adultery and criminal intimidation.

According to the First Information Report (FIR), the case stemmed from a petition dated 9 August 2024, which alleged that between December 2014 and November 2021 he ‘deceitfully induced a belief of lawful marriage’ with a woman identified as Hadiza Musa Baffa, cohabited with her at hotels and other premises in Abuja, maintained a child by her, denied paternity, and threatened to use his influence against her and the child.

He pleaded not guilty to the charges and was granted bail of N1 million with two sureties.

Later, a Federal High Court in Abuja granted an order restraining the Nigeria Police Force from presenting a DNA test result in the paternity dispute involving Turaki and Ms Baffa. The judge held that the matter was already before a competent court, and the police must not act further until formal determination of the application.

Turaki, for his part, has maintained that the allegations were orchestrated by political adversaries as part of a smear campaign. He has sued Ms Baffa, the police and others, seeking declarative relief and injunctions.

In May 2020, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) formally arraigned him, his special assistant, and two companies before the Federal High Court in Abuja. The EFCC accused him of misappropriating N714.6 million across 16 counts, alleging that during his time as Minister for Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs, he used shell companies to syphon funds meant for ministry programmes.

According to the EFCC’s press release, one of the charges states that Turaki, in January 2015, diverted N159,104,000 from funds released for ‘sensitisation and enlightenment of Muslim youths’, knowing the funds derived from unlawful activity. He pleaded not guilty to all 16 counts.

The court later discharged and acquitted him and his co-defendants of the money laundering charges after the court upheld his no-case submission ruling that the EFCC failed to link him and his co-defendants with the offences.

These legal episodes add a significant dimension to his profile as he positions himself for leadership within the party, raising questions about the spectrum of political vulnerability and reputational risk in a major internal contest.

Turaki needs to heal the party – Osadolor

A member of the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC), Timothy Osadolor, said the former minister possesses the goodwill, competence, and experience to succeed.

Osadolor advised Turaki not to succumb to pressure but to take things in stride.

‘He is coming to the saddle at a very difficult period for the PDP. He should be ready to overcome tough times. This is a job that is not bigger than him, and we expect him not only to do the job but to do it very successfully,’ he said.

‘Most of the hard work has already been done by Damagum. All he needs now is to fill in the blank spaces and further heal the party so that we can move forward from here.’

He noted that although other respected figures such as Makarfi, Shekarau and Lamido were also mentioned for the position, the final choice must take into account broader considerations.

‘The issue of the national chairmanship involves a lot of factors: national spread, appeal, acceptability, and the current realities in both the party and the country. When all of that is considered, I believe Turaki is more fitted for the job,’ Osadolor said.

He added that Turaki’s emergence at this crucial moment may well be providential.

‘I think Tanimu Turaki has been destined by our Creator to fill this role at this important time. Therefore, if all these respected elders from the North West and across the country rally behind him, the PDP will be on a sure footing to greatness once again,’ he said.

Pundits’ verdict: Can Turaki rebuild a fractured PDP?

Meanwhile, Turaki’s potential emergence has stirred mixed reactions among political analysts, with some viewing his choice as a stabilising move for the crisis-ridden opposition party and others warning that he faces formidable internal and external obstacles.

Dr Abubakar Kari of the University of Abuja said Turaki brings an impressive résumé to the position, underpinned by a long history of political and professional consistency.

‘If the sole criterion of ability to deliver is the length of stay in politics, then he qualifies,’ Kari said.

‘He comes with fairly impressive credentials: the first northerner to attain the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria, a former Minister of Special Duties under President Jonathan, and one of the few who have never left the PDP. That shows some level of consistency.’

Kari noted that Turaki’s vast experience and contacts across the party would be valuable in rallying its fractured structure ahead of the 2027 elections. ‘If you look at the people supporting him, they are quite formidable. He will need contacts and support from all levels of the party, from the ward to the national level,’ he added.

However, Kari cautioned that the former minister’s reputation could face challenges, citing allegations that have trailed him in recent years.

‘My only worry is that he’s been tainted by some scandals. No one is perfect, but these are quite serious: the corruption trial that ended in him being discharged on technical grounds and, more recently, the allegation by a woman who accused him of rape. These are salacious stories that the ruling party might exploit. It could serve as a major distraction,’ he said.

Beyond the personal controversies, Kari said the greater challenge lies within the PDP itself, describing it as ‘a party almost terminally infected by a virus of division.’

According to him, the intractable crisis among key power blocs, particularly the faction loyal to FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, could make Turaki’s tenure extremely difficult.

‘We have the Wike faction, and even within the northern caucus, there are people not supporting him. Some believe Sule Lamido would be a better candidate. If Lamido decides to square up with him, the contest could become messy and leave the party further polarized.

‘Even if the Wike group loses in court or through the forgery petition, they may still devise other ways to stir fresh trouble. So yes, Turaki may be elected chairman, but from the very first minute, he’ll inherit very serious problems that will require all the luck in the world to navigate,’ he said.

On how Turaki might compare with the leaders of the two other major parties, former Senate President David Mark of the opposition-led African Democratic Congress (ADC) and Professor Nentawe Yilwatda of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Kari said Turaki could compete favourably.

‘In terms of experience and political pedigree, he’s far ahead of Professor Nentawe, who’s relatively young in politics. Turaki has greater staying power, contacts, and institutional knowledge,’ he said.

‘As for David Mark and Turaki, both are veterans; Mark a General in the military, and Turaki, a General in the legal profession. Both have held senior public offices for decades, so they are equals in many ways. In that sense, Turaki can hold his own among the top party chairmen,’ he added.

A public affairs analyst, Iliyasu Gadu, also offered a broader political interpretation of Turaki’s emergence, describing it as part of a strategic effort to stabilise the PDP and reduce the influence of Wike.

‘For the past few years, about three or four PDP chairmen have emerged under Wike’s influence. This move seems to be aimed at wresting that control and retaking the party machinery,’ he said.

According to Gadu, Turaki’s closeness to former President Goodluck Jonathan could also signal a broader agenda. ‘He is very close to Jonathan, and that relationship could encourage Jonathan to return to active politics, perhaps even to contest in 2027 on the PDP platform,’ he suggested.

Gadu added; ‘The stakeholders were looking for someone who could calm the situation, bring together the factions, and stop the divisions because the political season is fast approaching.

‘Many PDP governors, especially from the South, have defected to the ruling party, while those in the North have mostly stayed put. Appointing Turaki, who is not strongly identified with any faction, could be a strategy to stop further defections and reposition the party.’

He argued that the PDP leadership likely sees Turaki’s selection as a means to rebuild the party’s northern base, which now represents its strongest surviving structure.

He noted that while the ruling APC continues to benefit from a wave of defections, internal discontent within the party could soon create opportunities for the PDP’s resurgence.

‘The political system is in flux,’ Gadu explained. ‘APC is gaining from defections now, but it could soon face its own crisis when primary elections begin. Once positions and patronage become contentious, you’ll start seeing cracks. Some of those disenchanted politicians might turn back to the PDP or even the ADC as alternatives.’

He said the PDP, if properly reorganised under a steady hand could become a credible refuge for politicians dissatisfied with the ruling party.

For many observers, Turaki’s anticipated chairmanship represents both opportunity and risk. While his political pedigree and long-standing loyalty to the PDP could inspire confidence, the challenges before him are enormous, from internal power tussles and factional litigations to a credibility battle that could be exploited by rivals.

The history of sports in Nigeria is filled with outstanding sportsmen and women who rendered meritorious services to the country. They didn’t just represent the country, they also won laurels and were in turn rewarded in cash and kind. Unfortunately, some of the legends’ lives most times end in abject poverty due to post-retirement challenges.

There is hardly a time some retired Nigerian athletes are not calling on the government and public-spirited individuals to come to their aid for medical attention; and in worst cases, burial, as has been the case in recent times.

This unfortunate development has continued to generate debate among Nigerians, who express divergent opinions on the matter, with some arguing that the government, and by extension, Nigerians, are not indebted to the former athletes.

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Not long ago, the death and burial of a former Nigerian international, Peter Rufai, was enmeshed in so much controversy when the family accused the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), the Lagos State Government and other sports authorities of abandoning their son.

The allegation didn’t go down well with some Nigerians, who said it was another display of entitlement mentality, which they said was common among retired athletes in the country.

At the moment, the family of the late legendary boxer and former national boxing coach, Obisia Nwankpa, is making passionate appeals to friends and relatives for money to enable them convey the body of their father from Lagos to their Okpulukwu Umosu village in Isiala Ngwa North Local Government Area of Abia State for burial.

Life and death of the legendary boxer

Born on June 14, 1949 in Lagos, Nwankpa was a celebrated African boxing champion and Nigeria’s national boxing coach who was nicknamed the ‘Golden Gloves.’

Widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s greatest boxers, he was a major figure from 1970 to 1980, largely regarded as the golden era of Nigerian boxing.

He represented Nigeria at the 1972 Summer Olympics in Munich in the light-welterweight category, where he lost his opening match to Laudiel Negrón of Puerto Rico.

Nwankpa, however, won gold at the 1973 All-Africa Games held in Lagos in the light-welterweight division. He also won gold at the 1974 British Commonwealth Games held in Christchurch, New Zealand in the light-welterweight category, when he defeated one Anthony Martey of Ghana in the final.

He had a total of 29 professional fights during his reign, winning 23, out of which 16 were by knockout. He lost only six fights.

The titles he held include Nigerian Lightweight Champion, African Boxing Union (ABU) Lightweight, as well as the Commonwealth Lightweight Champion.

One outstanding and memorable fight, which is still being talked about, is the World Boxing Council (WBC) Light-Welterweight world title fight against Saoul Mamby of USA, which he lost by a split decision. The fight was held in Nigeria at the National Stadium in Surulere, Lagos in 1982.

After retiring from active boxing, Obisia became the national boxing coach. During the time, he led Nigeria’s boxing teams to major international competitions, including the 2004 Athens Olympics and 2008 Beijing Olympics.

In his later years, Nwankpa suffered from dementia, memory loss and other health challenges, which led to his death in Lagos, where he was born.

The ‘Golden Golves’ died on June 3, 2025 at age 75 after protracted illnesses.

A cry for help

Five months after his death, the family of Nwankpa is still struggling to raise money to give him a befitting burial.

Speaking with journalists during her visit to Calabar, the deceased’s wife, Madam Franca Obisia Nwankpa, lamented that she and the entire family were feeling as if the corpse of the legend had been abandoned in Lagos because their passionate appeals to the federal government, the Nigeria Olympics Committee, the Boxing Federation and other relevant bodies, had not yielded the desired result.

According to the embattled widow, the family has fixed a date in November for the burial to be held in Okpulukwu Umosu village of Abia State but help is still elusive.

‘For God’s sake, Obisia actively spent over 40 years promoting boxing all over Nigeria. Should they abandon him now at his greatest point of need? I wrote to them officially about his passing. It is heartbreaking that they have been unresponsive towards his burial,’ she lamented.

She also said it was necessary to solicit for public assistance because the family had spent over N9 million in hospitals across Lagos and beyond before her husband passed on, leaving them completely drained.

According to her, the mortuary bill has already risen to nearly N2 million while the overall funeral expenses remain far beyond family means.

‘The sickness exhausted everything we had. Now, even the burial has become impossible.

‘His body has been in the mortuary for five months. And I can’t afford to continue paying the bills or transport him home for burial,’ she added.

A glimmer of hope

Madam Nwankpa said that in a last ditch effort, she reached out to her husband’s state government, which is Abia State, for help.

‘I have been travelling to Umuahia at a great cost, meeting with the commissioner and director of sports. They promised to reach Governor Alex Otti, who is known for compassion. I am pleading with him to intervene.

‘I have some hope that they won’t neglect their son, who in his active days worked at the national level and brought fame and honour to his home state.

‘All I ask for is help to give him a dignified farewell,’ she pleaded.

When contacted by our correspondent, the director of sports in Abia State, Mr George Obioma, said it was very shameful, annoying and unfortunate that the federal sports authorities could neglect a hero like Obisia Nwankpa, who spent a large part of his active years working and promoting boxing at the national level.

‘Well, Mrs Nwankpa came to us some time last month to appeal for state intervention after she had contacted the sports authorities at the national level without success.

‘From my end, alongside the commissioner for sports and youth development, we are working, although Obisia worked for several decades for Nigeria, which ought to handle this funeral.

‘It is painful and shameful that the federal authorities can abandon one who invested all his time in boxing to bring honour to the country.

‘We have, however, done our part. We believe and trust that Governor Alex Otti will give his attention to our proposal before next month when the burial will be held,’ Obioma said.

NSC promises to support Nwankpa’s burial

In a related development, the chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Malam Shehu Dikko, in a chat with Weekend Trust Sports, said support would be given to the family towards the burial of the boxing legend.

‘Well, she (Obisia’s wife) has been in contact with me and we would consider that, either on official basis or my personal capacity as we do for several others,’ he assured.

Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, has defended the endorsement of former Minister of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs, Kabiru Turaki, as the consensus candidate for the position of National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Lawal said the decision was in line with the party’s constitution, which provides for consensus as a legitimate means of selecting leaders.

Northern PDP stakeholders had, earlier in the week, adopted Turaki at a meeting in Abuja attended by governors Bala Mohammed (Bauchi), Caleb Mutfwang (Plateau), Ahmadu Fintiri (Adamawa), Lawal himself, and the acting PDP National Chairman, Umar Damagum. Also present were former Senate President Bukola Saraki, ex-Minister of Information Jerry Gana, Senate Minority Leader Abba Moro, and former Education Minister Ibrahim Shekarau.

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However, the endorsement sparked opposition from some North-West PDP stakeholders, who said they were not invited to the meeting where Turaki was chosen.

Speaking on Friday during the inauguration of the accreditation sub-committee for the forthcoming national convention, Lawal described the disagreement as part of normal political dynamics.

‘No matter what we do, some people will still be aggrieved. It is part of politics,’ he said.

‘What we are doing is to try to bring everybody together in the interest of this party. It is an ongoing process, and I can assure you that things will be okay. But it is normal to have agitations.’

He stressed that the process of adopting Turaki was legitimate and aligned with the PDP’s guiding principles.

‘In the constitution of our party, there is a provision for consensus. So, there is nothing new. It is okay; it is normal. It is part of our constitution in the PDP,’ the governor stated.

Lawal expressed optimism that the party would overcome its internal disagreements and emerge stronger ahead of its November 15-16 national convention in Ibadan, Oyo State, where new National Working Committee (NWC) members will be elected.

‘You can see: we have gone through a lot in the past, and now, things are getting better day by day. I am very sure and optimistic that we will bounce back. In fact, we are already making a comeback,’ he said.

The Zamfara governor also urged members of the various convention subcommittees to work harmoniously for the event’s success.

‘To the members of the special duties committee, the trust reposed in you is immense. You are the architects of our convention’s solvency and the guidance of its operational integrity. I have every confidence that you will rise to this challenge with distinction,’ Lawal added.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu yesterday appointed new Service Chiefs following the sack of Gen. Christopher Gwabin Musa as the Chief of Defence Staff and some others.

In a statement issued on Friday by Sunday Dare, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication, Musa was replaced by Lieutenant-General Olufemi Oluyede, who until the new appointment was Chief of Army Staff.

While Major-General Waidi Shaibu was named as the new Chief of Army Staff, Air Vice Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke is the new Chief of Air Staff and Rear Admiral Idi Abbas is the new Chief of Naval Staff.

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However, the Chief of Defence Intelligence, Major-General E.A.P Undiendeye, retained his position.

‘President Bola Tinubu has made changes in the hierarchy of the Service Chiefs in furtherance of the efforts of the Federal Government of Nigeria to strengthen the national security architecture.

‘The President appointed General Olufemi Oluyede to replace General Christopher Musa as the new Chief of Defence Staff. The new Chief of Army Staff is Major-General W. Shaibu. Air Vice Marshall S.K Aneke is Chief of Air Staff while Rear Admiral I. Abbas is the new Chief of Naval Staff. Chief of Defence Intelligence Major-General E.A.P Undiendeye retains his position.

‘The President, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, expresses most profound appreciation to the outgoing Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa and the other Service Chiefs for their patriotic service, and dedicated leadership.

‘The President charges the newly appointed Service Chiefs to justify the confidence reposed in them to further enhance the professionalism, vigilance and comradeship that define the Armed Forces of Nigeria,’ the Presidency’s statement said.

The change is coming barely a week after some newspapers reported that there was an alleged plot to topple the government. However, Weekend Trust could not confirm if the change was connected to the alleged coup plot.

The new service chiefs

Lieutenant-General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede

Lieutenant-General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede is a seasoned officer with a career in the Nigerian Army spanning over three decades.

A graduate of the 39th Regular Course, Oluyede has a wealth of experience in military strategy and command, and he has consistently demonstrated leadership excellence in numerous operations.

Prior to his appointment as Chief of Army Staff and the Defence Chief, he served as the 56th Commander of the Nigerian Army’s elite Infantry Corps, based in Jaji, Kaduna.

Commissioned as a second lieutenant in 1992 (retroactively effective from 1987), Oluyede steadily rose through the ranks of the Nigerian Army.

By September 2020, he attained the rank of Major-General. Throughout his career, Oluyede has taken on many leadership roles, including Platoon Commander and adjutant at 65 Battalion, Company Commander at 177 Guards Battalion, Staff Officer at Guards Brigade, and Commandant of the Amphibious Training School.

General Oluyede’s record extends to significant peacekeeping and national security operations. Notably, he served with distinction in the Economic Community of West African States Monitoring Group (ECOMOG) Mission in Liberia, a key deployment aimed at maintaining peace and stability in West Africa.

He further contributed to Operation HARMONY IV in Bakassi, focusing on protecting Nigeria’s interests in the region, and later commanded the 27 Task Force Brigade in Operation HADIN KAI, which combats insurgency in the North East of Nigeria.

Historically, Oluyede became Nigeria’s first-ever Acting Chief of Army Staff. He also holds the prestigious title of ‘Passed Staff Course,’ a hallmark of distinguished military achievement. He hails from Ekiti State.

Major-General Waidi Shaibu as army chief

Major-General Waidi Shaibu, who is the new Chief of Army Staff, has earned many honours for his meritorious service in various fields of operations. He was former Theatre Commander, Northeast ‘Operation Hadin Kai’.

He was once the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 7 Div, Maimalari Cantonment, Maiduguri. During his tenure, he recorded successes in the fight against Boko Haram insurgents. After his stint as the 11th GOC 7 Div, he proceeded to the Defence Space Agency in Abuja having served for a period of 14 months.

He is a former Director of Training at the Army Headquarters Department of Training in Abuja. He is also the former commander, 21 Special Armour Brigade Bama.

He was a member of the College of International Security Affairs (CISA) before he was promoted to the rank of Brigadier General. He also served as principal staff officer at the Defense Headquarters Abuja.

In 2024, he received the Security Watch Award for the most outstanding defense command in Africa.

Rear Admiral Idi Abbas

Rear Admiral Idi Abbas was born on 20 September 1969 and hails from Nassarawa LGA of Kano State.

He enlisted into the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) on September 12, 1987 and was commissioned Sub-Lieutenant on September 10, 1993, as a member of NDA 40 Regular Course with a Bachelor’s Degree in Chemistry.

The newly appointed Chief of the Naval Staff began his early education at Gwagwarwa Primary School Kano, then proceeded to Airforce Military School Jos from 1981 – 1986 before his admission into NDA in 1987.

The newly appointed CNS is an Above Water Warfare (AWW) specialist officer who has attended several military courses at home and abroad including the Sub-Lieutenant Technical Course at NNS QUORRA in 1994, the Junior and Senior Staff Courses at the Armed Forces Command and Staff College Jaji in 2001 and 2005 respectively.

From January to December 2003, he attended the Officers’ Long Course (OLC XII) at NNS QUORRA Apapa Lagos specializing in Above Water Warfare. Rear Admiral Abbas also attended the United Nations Military Observer Course in Tanzania in 2009 and in 2014 he graduated from the prestigious National Defence College (NDC) Abuja as a member of NDC Course 23.

The newly appointed CNS has held several appointments in the Nigerian Navy. After his commissioning in 1993, he served onboard various NN ships as a Watch-Keeping Officer.

In January 2004, he was appointed Staff Officer III, Marine Services at Naval Headquarters (NHQ) and later Gunnery Officer NNS OHUE in 2006. In 2007, he became an instructor at NNS QUORRA and in 2008, he was appointed Commanding Officer Burma Battalion of NDA.

Rear Admiral Abbas later served as Base Administrative Officer of NNS PATHFINDER and Naval contingent Commander of Joint Task Force Operation SAFE HAVEN in 2010 and 2012 respectively.

He was the Maritime Guard Commander (MGC) of NIMASA in 2015 and Commander Task Group (CTG) of NN Operation Tsare-Teku in 2017.

Between 2018 and 2022, Rear Admiral Idi Abbas steadily climbed the ladder of appointments in Central Naval Command first as the Command Admin Officer (CAO) then as the Chief Staff Officer (CSO) culminating in his appointment as Flag Officer Commanding (FOC CNC) of Central Naval Command and within this period, he also served as Commander NNS VICTORY, Calabar in 2020.

In July 2023, he was appointed Chief of Naval Safety and Standard (CNASS) at NHQ and in February 2024, he became the Chief of Defence Civil Military Relations (CDCMR) and Defence Headquarters (DHQ).

In January 2025, Rear Admiral Abbas was deployed to the Nigerian Army Heritage Centre as a Senior Research Fellow, the appointment he held before his elevation to the post of 25th Chief of Naval Staff, Nigerian Navy.

The newly appointed CNS is a thoroughbred professional Seaman Executive Officer who rose through all the ranks in NN before his appointment. He became a Midshipman on 18 September 1996, 2001 and 2006 respectively he was promoted to the ranks of Lieutenant, Lieutenant-Commander and Commander.

He became a Navy Captain in September 2011, a Commodore in 2016 and a Rear Admiral on 10 September 2020.

Rear Admiral Idi Abbas enjoys playing hockey and driving. Rear Admiral Idi Abbas is married to Mrs Aisha Abbas and the marriage is blessed with two boys.

Air Vice Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke

Aneke was born on 20 February 1972 in Makurdi, Benue State, but hails from Udi Local Government Area of Enugu State.

The son of an Air Warrant Officer (Rtd) Sylvester and Mrs Ngozi Aneke, he had his early education at Army Children School, New Cantonment ‘A’, Kaduna (1976-1982) and Government College, Kaduna (1982-1987).

He was admitted into the Nigerian Defence Academy as a member of the 40th Regular Combatant Course and was commissioned into the Nigerian Air Force as a Pilot Officer on 10 September 1993. Air Vice Marshal Aneke holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Physics, a Postgraduate Diploma in Management from the University of Calabar, and two Master’s Degrees, one in International Affairs and Diplomacy from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, and another in Political Economy and Development Studies from the University of Abuja.

He also possesses a Professional Certificate in Aviation Safety Management from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Florida, USA, and is currently pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD). Air Vice Marshal Aneke has attended some military institutions, including the Armed Forces Command and Staff College, Jaji, where he completed the Junior and Senior Staff Courses, and the United States Air War College, Maxwell Air Force Base, Alabama, where he earned a Master’s in Strategic Studies.

He has held numerous command, instructional, and policy appointments that shaped his operational and strategic acumen, among them Director of Policy, Director of Safety, Deputy Director of Operations at NAF Headquarters, Command Operations Officer, Tactical Air Command, and Deputy Commandant of the Nigerian Defence Academy.

Until his appointment as CAS, he served as Air Officer Commanding, Mobility Command, Yenagoa.

His operational experience spans domestic and international theatres, from Operation Restore Hope in the Niger Delta to United Nations peacekeeping operations in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUC), where he served as Chief of Air Operations, Kindu Region.Air Vice Marshal Aneke is married to Mrs Ngozi Enderline Aneke, and their union is blessed with three sons.

Many Generals to go

Following the appointments, findings by the Weekend Trust revealed that senior military officers who are of NDA Regular Course 38, 39 and a few others in Course 40 will exit the force in line with the tradition of the military.

Sources said not less than 60 Generals are expected to begin the process of exiting their respective force after the official decoration of the newly-appointed service chiefs with their new ranks.

‘The newly-appointed service chiefs will be decorated with their new ranks any moment from now. As such, their seniors, who are still in the force will exit,’ one of the sources said.

Commenting on the matter when he appeared on Trust TV’s Daily Politics, a former spokesman of the Nigerian Army, Brigadier-General Sani Usman Kukasheka (rtd), said the change is not unusual in the military, saying it is a step in the right direction to reinvigorate the fight against insecurity.

Reactions trail appointment

Reacting to the appointment, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) asked the president to be honest with Nigerians on the real reasons behind the ‘sudden and abrupt change in the leadership of the Nigerian military’.

In a statement issued on Friday by Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, National Publicity Secretary of the ADC, the party expressed concern that the change happened after a ‘rumoured coup plot’.

‘While we acknowledge that the president, as the Commander-in-Chief, reserves the power to make such changes as he may deem fit, we are somewhat concerned that this change is coming in the wake of widespread rumours of an attempted coup.

‘We reiterate our earlier view that the reactions of government to the dangerous rumour have veered between deliberate obfuscation and outright confusion in a matter that required crystal clarity.

‘We note that nearly all the Service Chiefs that have been removed were appointed only 28 months ago, with the current Chief of Defence Staff himself appointed just a year ago as Chief of Army Staff.

‘We also note that this kind of decision has serious and far-reaching implications for stability within the ranks and therefore could not have been taken without strong reasons.

‘Our position remains, therefore, that the Federal Government owes Nigerians a categorical explanation about what truly happened.

‘As an opposition political party, our interest remains the stability of our country and our democracy. In the light of developments in our neighbourhood of Chad and the Sahel States, we are gravely concerned.

‘Without prejudice to what might have happened in recent weeks, it is obvious that the Tinubu administration is distracted. Insecurity continues to spread with terrorist groups staging a comeback in some parts of the country, while bandits reign supreme in other parts.

‘But this is not the reason the government is changing the Service Chiefs. Instead, the administration’s attention appears fully focused on regime politics rather than securing the lives of Nigerians.

‘This action of near wholesale change in the leadership of the country’s military, if anything, will only further promote rumours and conspiracy theories.

‘We, therefore, reiterate our earlier position that the Federal Government must address the issue transparently and reassure Nigerians that our democracy is not under threat.’

But a former Kaduna Central senator, Shehu Sani, described the shake-up in the Nigeria’s military leadership as a necessary step in the country’s fight against insecurity.

Reacting to the development on his X handle, Shehu Sani, also a human rights activist, noted that periodic changes in the leadership structure of security services are essential in order to achieve results.

Sani hinged the country’s struggle with insecurity to lack of courage by past leaders to execute such changes in the military architecture.

He, however, commended Christopher Musa for his service during his stint as Chief of Defence Staff, wishing him well in his future endeavours.

Sani wrote: ‘Periodic changes in the leadership structure of our security services are essential in order to achieve results.

‘The lack of courage to do this in the past partly attributed to the failures of the nation’s battle against insecurity.

‘For us in Kaduna, we appreciate the service and stewardship of the outgoing CDS General Musa. We are proud of his accomplishments. We wish him well in his future endeavours.’

Similarly, Nigerians took to their social media to express their feelings regarding the new appointments.

On X @reuel4real said: ‘Don’t you think a democratically elected president should not have power to sack military service chiefs, let the military be a standalone institution and the highest office to be attained through qualifications only to retire after service.’

@Adeshina Oluwatosin: ‘Wow !!! I thought General CG Musa was doing well’.

@LanreOmotosho: ‘Was the coup attempt real or did he just need a reason to reshuffle his Defence cabinet.’

Halisu Hasiya: ‘That means the coup was true if not what was his offense’.

Yusuf Abdulwahab Sani: ‘This is a commendable and strategic move by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in his continuous effort to strengthen national security and restore lasting peace across the country.’

Literally translated, Mahaukata means people with mental illness in Hausa language. However, in Bauchi Emirate, it carries a respected cultural meaning, conferred only on individuals who are bold and courageous enough to speak the truth to authorities, even to the emir whenever the need arises.

The role of the Mahaukata is to fearlessly advise the emir on matters affecting his subjects without fear or favour. The holder of the title is known by all due to the nature of his role in the palace.

Any time you hear someone speaking loudly at the palace and drawing the attention of the emir on some pressing issues affecting the lives of the common man, he is nobody but the Mahaukatan Bauchi.

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Origin of the title

The title of Mahaukata was instituted by the Emir of Bauchi, Malam Ibrahim Dan Yakubu. The first to hold it was his close friend, the late Malam Dauda.

Although Dauda was not from a royal lineage, he grew up alongside Ibrahim under the care of Emir Yakubu.

Their bond endured even after Ibrahim became emir. Dauda was one of the few who could boldly correct the emir whenever he erred. This is a testament to the title’s essence.

Dauda, the first Mahaukatan Bauchi and the Emir of Bauchi Ibrahim grew up in the palace like brothers; and because of their intimacy, the latter used to correct the former’s mistakes whenever the need arose. So, even after Ibrahim became emir, that did not stop Dauda from correcting him, even in public.

Because of this attitude, anytime Dauda approached the palace with the intention to correct the emir, the people around would start saying the mad man had started. The emir, on his part, was not comfortable with Dauda’s attitude and decided to tackle it. After consultations with relevant personalities, the emir came up with an idea of conferring a title on Dauda, with a view to controlling his attitude towards him.

However, when the emir approached Dauda and requested to choose a traditional title of his choice, Dauda chose to be conferred with the title of Mahaukatan Bauchi. He told the emir that he wanted to be conferred with the title the people already knew him; hence the emir conferred him with the title of Mahaukatan Bauchi. His main duty was to tell the emir the truth about the condition of the people.

Alhaji Ado Danrimi Garba, the current Wakilin Tarihi of Bauchi Emirate, told Weekend Trust that contrary to the misconceptions, Mahaukata is not a mad man and is the only person in the whole palace allowed to tell the emir everything in public, noting, ‘In a nutshell, Mahaukata is not a mad man. He is a physically sound person saddled with the responsibility of telling the emir the truth anytime and anywhere. So, Mahaukata is a brave, loyal and highly respected person in the palace.

‘If you are not brave you cannot be conferred with the title of Mahaukata. The duty of Mahaukata is to tell the truth, but he doesn’t have the authority to enforce it. Mahaukata is always after correcting the emir to do things correctly,’ he explained.

Since its inception, several individuals have served as Mahaukatan Bauchi. Today, Ahmad Lawal Aliyu holds the title. Despite its misleading literal meaning, he proudly bears the role and the responsibility that comes with it.

Aliyu, who is the 10th Mahaukatan Bauchi, told Weekend Trust that his major work in the palace is to tell the emir the naked truth no matter what, saying, ‘Once he sees some things that need the emir’s intervention, I will go directly to the emir and inform him. I am the only person that has the power to approach the emir on anything that requires his intervention.

‘I do not have any barrier with the emir. Whenever something happens in Bauchi and it needs the emir’s intervention, I will go to the palace and inform him. Also, during the palace session, if the emir errs, I will correct him.’

I feel angry if I am not called by my title – 10th Mahaukata

Alhaji Aliyu said he always felt embarrassed and dishonored whenever he is called by his real name, saying, ‘I always prefer to be called by my title than my real name. If I am called by my real name I feel like I was stripped naked.

‘I cherish the title so much that I can fight you if you underrate it. This is something I inherited from my forefathers, so I am always proud of it. Nine people from my family held this title before me and they all acted the way I am acting now. My family is always proud of this title.

‘There was a time I made a speech at a public function at the Emir of Bauchi’s palace. People from various states attended the function, including the then Wazirin Kano. After my speech, he wondered why I was called Mahaukata despite my appearance and eloquence.

‘Another incident happened at the palace of the Sultan of Sokoto when I accompanied the Emir of Bauchi to Sokoto. When I greeted the Sultan and turned to the Emir of Bauchi and greeted him, he said, ‘Thank you Mahaukata; you arrived? The Sultan asked, ‘Emir, of all the available titles, a complete man like this chose to be called Mahaukata?’ The Emir of Bauchi replied, ‘He is Mahaukatan Bauchi, who always tells me the truth. The Sultan said Allah shi yi ma dubun hauka.

‘When I was sent to Niger by the Emir of Bauchi and I introduced myself as the Mahaukatan Bauchi to the traditional ruler there, the emir became angry. He simply picked his phone and called the Emir of Bauchi and inquired if truly there was a traditional title like that.

‘The Emir of Bauchi laughed and confirmed to him that it’s true and I am the holder. The emir further explained in detail about the title and my role in the palace. That was what saved me from the emir’s anger.’

Interestingly, the neighbourhood where the Mahaukata resides is popularly known as Anguwar Mahaukata, which has led to widespread misconceptions.

Despite the community’s honourable background, many outsiders wrongly associate its name with mental illness. Residents and observers have voiced concern over this misunderstanding.

Malam Danlami Lawal, a resident of Mahaukata community, told Weekend Trust that despite the misconceptions associated with the word, residents of the community are proud of the name. He said, ‘Residents of the community are not people living with mental challenges. On the contrary, we are physically sound.

‘We don’t have bad feelings when other people call this community Unguwar Mahaukata because we don’t have a history of any mental disorder. We are normal people. The name of the community emanated from the title of Mahaukata; that’s all. Residents are proud of the community. I have never heard a resident of this community complaining about its name.’

Another resident, Muhammad Auwal, said he had never bothered about the misconceptions regarding the name of the community, adding, ‘Although many people thought residents of the community were not mentally sound, that doesn’t bother me because I am hundred per cent sure that we are mentally okay. Many people ask whether we have any mental illness, but sincerely speaking, it is just a name. We are mentally sound.

‘Of course, the word Mahaukata has a negative meaning, but it doesn’t concern us because as far as we are concerned, ours is just a traditional title with dignity, which one of us is holding. We are proud of this title and we always cherish it. I am always proud to be a member of the Mahaukata community.’

Isa Muhammad Mahaukata also said there was nothing wrong if the community retained its name. According to him, the misconception about the name does not in any way affect the dignity of residents.

He said: ‘Once people are briefed about the name of the community, they always end up commending residents for accepting it. You know people always like culture. It is a culture in Bauchi to have the title in the palace, so there is nothing wrong in naming the community Mahaukata.’

Alhaji Aminu Musa of Jahun Quarters said if not that he is from Bauchi State, no one would have convinced him to believe that Mahaukata is not a community meant for people with mental illness. He said, ‘Ideally, whoever hears the name for the first time will assume that the community is meant for people with mental illness.’

He, however, said it would be better if the government could change the name of the community to something else as that would address the issue of misconception.

Former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Professor Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami, will deliver the keynote address at this year’s Annual Conference of the Nigeria Muslim Forum UK (NMFUK), scheduled to hold in Manchester on Sunday, 26th October.

Themed ‘Ethical Digital Economy: The Future of Community-Centred Islamic Digital Banking,’ the conference will bring together thought leaders, policymakers, and industry experts to discuss the intersection of technology, ethics, and Islamic finance in today’s digital age.

Other distinguished speakers include Dr Abdullahi Bala Lau, National Chairman of JIBWIS (Jama’atu Izalatil Bid’ah Wa Iqamatis Sunnah), and Mr Raza Ullah, Chief Executive Officer and Founder of Pfida, a leading ethical finance platform.

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In a statement, the National Ameer of NMFUK, Dr Bilyaminu Romo, said the event forms part of the activities marking the Forum’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) and will ‘serve as a platform for intellectual exchange, cultural appreciation, and communal strengthening.’

According to Dr Romo, discussions will explore how Islamic principles can guide innovation in digital finance, ensuring inclusion, accountability, and shared prosperity.

‘The theme reflects our commitment to building a just and ethical economic system that benefits individuals and communities alike.’

‘Professor Pantami’s keynote address is expected to highlight the role of digital innovation in expanding access to Islamic financial services, as Nigeria continues to consolidate its position as a regional leader in ethical finance.

‘Nigeria’s Islamic finance ecosystem, currently valued at over $4 billion, underscores the sector’s rapid growth and potential in supporting national development and financial inclusion.

‘Beyond finance, participants will also discuss community cohesion, intercultural dialogue and collaboration in pursuit of shared values of compassion and service,’ the statement read.

The Nigeria Muslim Forum UK (NMFUK) is the umbrella body of Nigerian Muslims in the United Kingdom.

Registered as a charity, the Forum supports both UK-based and Nigerian communities through medical outreach, education, orphanage support, and humanitarian initiatives.

The recent shake-up in Nigeria’s military is set to sweep out dozens of senior officers from the system.

Findings show that no fewer than 60 Generals are expected to retire.

This follows President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s appointment of new Service Chiefs.

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The move, announced on Friday, saw General Christopher Musa removed as Chief of Defence Staff alongside other top commanders.

Lieutenant-General Olufemi Oluyede, who was until now the Chief of Army Staff, has been named the new Chief of Defence Staff.

While Major-General Waidi Shaibu was named the new Chief of Army Staff, Air Vice Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke took charge as Chief of Air Staff.

Rear Admiral Idi Abbas becomes Chief of Naval Staff.

Major-General E.A.P Undiendeye retained his position as Chief of Defence Intelligence.

Military sources said the reshuffle will trigger a major round of retirements among officers senior to the new Service Chiefs.

‘The newly appointed Service Chiefs will be decorated with their ranks any moment from now. As such, their seniors who are still in service will exit,’ a source confirmed.

Officers from the Nigerian Defence Academy Regular Courses 38, 39 and a few from Course 40 are said to be affected.

The changes, sources added, are in line with military tradition to maintain discipline, hierarchy and command structure.

The Presidency said the shake-up was aimed at strengthening national security and improving coordination across the Armed Forces.

The new appointments came days after reports of an alleged coup plot circulated in the media.

Daily Trust could not confirm any link between the rumours and the changes.

Security watchers say the mass retirement will open the way for a new generation of commanders across the Armed Forces.

The belief, in some quarters, is that the change could inject fresh momentum into ongoing military operations and unsettle, briefly, the command structure as new officers take over.

A former spokesman of the Nigerian Army, Brigadier-General Sani Usman Kukasheka (rtd), said the move was not unusual.

‘It is a regular practice in the military. Leadership rotation brings new energy to operations,’ he said.

A statement signed by Sunday Dare said, the president’s aide, praised the outgoing officers for their ‘patriotic service and dedication’.

He said the president made changes in the hierarchy of the Service Chiefs in furtherance of the efforts to strengthen the national security architecture

Marriage is often regarded as the beginning of a beautiful journey – and for many, it is.

For some women, the moment the wedding bells fade, a different kind of pressure sets in: the expectation to conceive immediately.

But not every woman is ready. Not because she doesn’t want to be a mother, but because she is unsure of what lies ahead in her new marriage.

How does this decision affect the marriage, the couple, and society at large?

Join us on this episode of The Bearing to find out.