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This article explores how recycling, reuse, and sustainable innovation are turning waste into opportunity worldwide. In major cities across the world, mountains of plastic bottles, discarded electronics, and piles of food waste are fast becoming symbols of modern life. Yet, what if these heaps of trash were not just a problem but a hidden treasure? The concept of the circular economy is redefining how the world thinks about waste, offering a powerful path toward both environmental sustainability and economic renewal.

Rethinking Waste as Opportunity: For decades, the global economy has operated in a linear fashion: take, make, use, and dispose. This model has driven unprecedented industrial growth, but at a staggering environmental cost. Landfills overflow, oceans choke with plastic, and carbon emissions from manufacturing continue to warm the planet. The circular economy proposes a different approach one that keeps resources in use for as long as possible, extracts maximum value from them, and then regenerates products and materials at the end of their life cycle. In this model, waste is not the end of the story but the beginning of a new one. Old tires can be transformed into road surfaces, food scraps into biogas, and plastic bottles into new textiles. The result is a system where materials circulate endlessly, reducing pressure on natural resources and slashing greenhouse gas emissions. Across Africa and other developing regions, the circular economy is already taking root in creative ways. In Nigeria, startups like Wecyclers and Trash2Wealth are turning household waste into income sources for low-income communities. Local collectors earn money by gathering recyclable materials, which are then processed and reused by manufacturers. This not only reduces landfill pollution but also provides livelihoods and empowers communities to take ownership of their environment. Similarly, in Kenya, entrepreneurs are converting agricultural residues into eco-friendly packaging materials and charcoal briquettes cutting down on deforestation while creating green jobs. These examples highlight how climate action and economic empowerment can go hand in hand.

Circular Thinking in Industry: Globally, major industries are embracing the idea of circularity. Fashion brands are recycling old garments into new fabrics; technology companies are designing modular electronics that can be repaired instead of discarded; and construction firms are using recycled concrete and steel to build sustainable cities. Each of these innovations contributes to reducing emissions from energy-intensive production processes.

The Ellen MacArthur Foundation estimates that adopting circular economy principles could cut global carbon emissions by up to 39% by 2032; a significant contribution toward meeting the Paris Agreement goals.

Policy and Public Participation: However, for the circular economy to thrive, strong policies and public engagement are essential. Governments can encourage recycling and reuse through tax incentives, waste separation laws, and investments in recycling infrastructure. Education campaigns are equally important, teaching citizens that throwing things ‘away’ simply means moving them somewhere else on the planet.

Countries like Rwanda and Sweden are already setting examples by banning single-use plastics, investing in repair industries, and rewarding sustainable product design. Nigeria and other developing nations are beginning to follow suit, integrating waste-to-energy projects and green innovation hubs into their national climate strategies.

Challenges and the Road Ahead: Despite its promise, the circular economy faces significant hurdles. Weak infrastructure, limited recycling capacity, and informal waste management systems can hinder large scale implementation. Additionally, many products are not yet designed for easy reuse or disassembly. But these challenges are not insurmountable. With investment, innovation, and political will, they can be overcome.

The transition to a circular economy is more than an environmental necessity, it’s an economic opportunity waiting to be unlocked. By closing the loop between production, consumption, and waste, our societies can move from pollution to prosperity.

As climate change accelerates, the circular economy offers a hopeful vision: one where human progress no longer depends on destroying the planet’s resources. Instead, it invites us to imagine a future where everything we use finds a second life and nothing truly goes to waste.

A carpenter, Ahmed Toheed, has been arraigned before an Akure Division of the Chief Magistrates’ Court, Oke Eda, Ondo State for allegedly raping and killing his grandmother.

Toheed was accused of killing 64-year-old Mulikat Sanni on Onisere Street, Ore, the headquarters of the Odigbo Local Government Area of the state at about 10 p.m. penultimate Monday.

According to reports, the suspect allegedly raped and strangled the sexagenarian after accusing her of witchcraft and being responsible for his streak of bad luck.

The defendant, facing charges of rape and murder, was brought before Chief Magistrate Olateju Odenusi-Fadeyi.

Prosecutor Augustine Omhenimhen told the court that Toheed overpowered the elderly woman, strangled her to death, and thereafter had canal knowledge of her.

The charge sheet reads in part: ‘That you, Ahmed Toheed ‘m’, on September 29, 2025, at about 10 p.m., at Onisere Street, Ore, in the Ondo State Magisterial District, did unlawfully strangle one Mulikat Sanni ‘f’, aged 64 years, to death and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 316 and punishable under Section 319 of the **Criminal Code, Cap 37, Vol. 1, Laws of Ondo State of Nigeria, 2006.

‘That you, Ahmed Toheed ‘m’, on the same date, time, and place, did unlawfully have canal knowledge of one Mulikat Sanni ‘f’, aged 64 years, and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 357 and punishable under Section 358 of the same law.’

The court did not take the defendant’s plea.

The prosecutor, Omhenimhen, urged the court to remand the suspect pending legal advice from the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).

However, defence counsel Benjamin Adeyanju prayed the court for an adjournment to enable him file a counter-affidavit.

In her ruling, Magistrate Odenusi-Fadeyi ordered the remand of the defendant at the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID) and adjourned the case to October 13 for further hearing.

In the shadowed corridors of the Lagos State Rehabilitation and Vocational Training Centre in Owutu, Ikorodu, where hope often struggles to rise above the heavyweight of reality, The Nation correspondent approached a quiet woman named Flora Iwulegi. Her story, though told with composed voice and tired eyes, speaks of a life journey marked by dreams deferred, survival and a longing for dignity in the midst of neglect.

‘I am Flora Iwulegi from Delta State,’ she said as if reaffirming her identity to herself.

‘I was living in Lagos and was working. But the job stopped and I could not pay my rent. My landlord threw my things out and somehow, I found myself here.’

Once employed at a now-defunct organisation called SBA Research, lwulegi studied Secretarial Studies at Lagos State Polytechnic; a course she believed at the time would open the door to a stable life. But she would later realise that stability can be painfully fragile as the roof over her head vanished as soon as her job did.

Between 2009 and 2016, Flora shuttled between Lagos and her village as she tried unsuccessfully to find her footing again. ‘But things just did not work out,’ she said.

Unfortunately, she had no one to share her plight with as her parents were long gone. They died while she was still very young, leaving her to face life all alone. Hence she found herself begging on the streets of Lagos. In the process, the Lagos State rescue team found her and took her to the rehabilitation centre after telling her that the governor wanted to meet her.

‘I believed them when they told me that the governor wanted to see me. I hoped I was going to see him, but I never did. My first month in the centre was full of anticipation and hope that l would see the governor’.

Life inside the centre

Arriving at the rehabilitation centre in 2016, lwulegi has lived in it for nearly a decade. Asked what life had been like at the centre, she said: ‘It is terrible; really terrible.’

She noted that inmates are packed into large halls with shared bed spaces. ‘Some have mattresses, others make do with the wrappers they spread on the floor. That becomes yours space whether it is comfortable or not,’ she said.

Iwulegi also said there was inconsistency in the feeding arrangement. She said although meals are served twice or thrice a day, the quality is barely tolerable. ‘You eat what they give you not because you like it, but because you must survive.’

Despite the presence of a vocational training centre offering courses in tailoring, shoemaking, and hairdressing, lwulegi was yet to learn a skill. Instead, she found solace teaching children in the centre’s makeshift classroom.

The correspondent sighted the classroom which had old benches and a chalk board that was not placed on the wall well. ‘I joined myself with the children’s section and became a teacher to them,’ she said.

A mother apart

Iwulegi has a child, though the two have lived apart for many years.

‘Someone offered to take care of him, so he did not come here with me,’ she said as her voice trailed off at the mention of motherhood. There was no bitterness; only the fatigue of someone who has had to make peace with absence.

Asked what she hoped for, lwulegi’s answer was disarmingly honest: ‘As soon as I get accommodation, I will leave. I will find a teaching job, maybe. But more than anything, I just want to face my God.’

Her words are not despairing; they are resolute. After years of hardship, the idea of finding meaning in faith feels like the only certain destination left. Now in her mid-fifties, lwulegi is not concerned about remarrying or acquiring material things. ‘At my age? Well, if God wills,’ she said in response to a question about remarrying.

Hers is the story of a once-educated and gainfully employed woman swallowed by an unkind system; a story of how easily life can unravel, and how difficult it is to rebuild when the system forgets to follow through.

‘Living in this environment makes me feel bad. It is like one is living in the past and one is not progressing,’ Iwulegi lamented. Yet, within her is a strength not easily erased; a woman who though rattled by circumstance refuses to let go of her humanity.

Faith, loss, survival: the story of Prophetess Oluwakemi Osikoya

On that humid afternoon at the centre in Owutu, Ikorodu, a soft-spoken woman walked smartly, her bag clutched firmly in her hands. ‘My name is Oluwakemi Osikoya. I am from Ijebu Ode,’ she said.

While Osikoya spoke with disarming calmness, her life story was anything but simple. Behind the calm voice of the Ibadan-based prophetess is a life defined by faith, betrayal and a mother’s enduring pain.

She recalled her early days in Ibadan, where she built a church ‘with God’s help’ as a prophetess of the Cherubim and Seraphim Church. She spoke of a vibrant ministry and a congregation she nurtured with prayers and resources but it was not long before cracks began to form.

She said: ‘Some people came to me. They wanted me to join their lodge. They said the lodge members include Muslims, traditionalists, herbalists and prophetesses, but I told them that with my Jesus I would not hold another god.’

Her response, she said, sparked resentment and hostility. Soon, things began to spiral. ‘They tried to block my people from entering my house. If I locked my door and went out, they would break the door and take everything I had at home.’

In all this, she said, her husband offered no support. ‘People called him. Church members called him. They wanted to contribute money for me to buy land, but he told them he could not support them because he is a salaried man,’ she said regretfully.

In the midst of the resultant tension, riots broke out against her. ‘They called me a liar. They said, ‘Come and see Jesus. She is Jesus.” She said she was wounded in the attacks.

With her life in danger, Oluwakemi fled Ibadan for Shomolu, Lagos, taking her two young children aged seven and five with her. But tragedy struck again.

She said: ‘I first took them (the children) to their father’s family house. I don’t know who called him. He came and snatched the children and ran away.

‘When he came around, l told my children not to go and see him. But my eldest child said Mummy, let us go and greet him, it is not fair. As the children came out to see him, he took them away in his car to lbadan. Since then, I have not seen them.’

That was in 2004. Twenty-one years later, she still hasn’t seen her children. ‘I know where they are,’ she said quietly. ‘If I get to Idiarere in Ibadan, I will see them. But I have not heard about them-schooling, work, anything.’

Her voice trailed off. It is the kind of loss that lingers; heavy and unspoken.

From Church founder to sleeping under bridges

When she arrived in Shomolu, she discovered that their family house had been sold. With no home, no children and no income, Oluwakemi was forced to sleep outside-sometimes under bridges, sometimes anywhere the night caught her.

‘It was terrible,’ she recalled. ‘Rain will beat you, sun will beat you. You have no clothes, no water to drink, no water to bathe. By dirt, you will go into madness,’ she said.

In 2017, she was brought to the Lagos State Rehabilitation Centre, where she has lived since.

Today, Oluwakemi is learning horticulture at the centre. For the first time in years, she has a skill she believes can help her to rebuild her life.

‘I am ready to face life as a horticulturist. That is what I am going to do.’

Yet, even as she learns, her faith remains her anchor. ‘If God sends me, I will still do His work,’ she says of her role as a prophetess. ‘I’m not the one forcing myself.

A place of refuge with gaps to fill

Unlike some other residents, Oluwakemi speaks positively of the centre. ‘This place is beautiful. It is good for somebody who has nowhere to sleep, who rain is beating, sun is beating. It helps us,’ she said.

But she also believes there is more that can be done. ‘Government should help us with more food and they should give us more training. Those who gave us training last time-they are Life Foundation. They brought materials for us. Government should do more,’ she said.

Asked if she would ever reconcile with her husband, Oluwakemi shook her head in the negative. ‘Somebody who could not help me to survive, how am I going to cope? I can’t.’

What about remarriage?

She hesitates, then answers: ‘No.’

Born in 1965, she has learned to lean on herself and her faith. ‘I am my own esteem here,’ she said, a quiet pride in her voice.

Despite everything, loss, betrayal, poverty, she radiates resilience.

Osikoya’s story is one of many inside Lagos’s rehabilitation centres. It is a story of how life can change overnight, how a person of faith and influence can be pushed to the margins, and how government interventions can make the difference between despair and survival.

Her dream now is simple: to leave the centre, earn a living through horticulture, and-if it is God’s will-to continue her ministry.

‘I thank God for today,’ she said softly, clutching her bag again. ‘This place has helped me. But I am ready to start life again.

Agboche fights for life beyond addiction

Called at the verge of having his first meal at about 1pm, 35-year-old Romeo Agboche looked many years older than his age. His eyes were weary, his voice fragile, but there was a quiet determination behind every word.

Agboche hails from Edo State, but it was the streets of Ikorodu, Lagos that shaped much of his adult life-both the rise and the fall.

‘I started smoking at the age of 20,’ Agboche admits, staring into the distance. ‘Now I am in this place for the third time.

‘The first time, my mother came to pick me. The second time, I didn’t take my medications and I broke down again. This third time, they brought me back.’

This time, he says, might be different.

His descent into substance abuse began in his early adulthood. His drug of choice? ‘Smoking,’ he says, with an air of shame and resignation. He refers to himself as an ‘addict smoker,’ but insists he has now stopped.

‘I don’t smoke anymore. I don’t drink. I have been clean for 10 months,’ he said. The credit, he said, goes to the rehabilitation programme, where they are given psychotropic medications and occasional treatment for illnesses like malaria.

‘The main reason we are here is to take psych drugs so that our brain would be corrected,’ Agboche explained.

His story isn’t just one of addiction; it’s also about lost opportunities.

‘I went to school in Ikorodu,’ he said. ‘I finished secondary school but did not go further after that because I used to go for football training morning and evening. I was a grassroots footballer.’

He wanted to become a professional footballer, but lack of sponsorship and support derailed his dream. ‘That is why I did not go to school,’ he said, repeating the sentence like a painful refrain.

Agboche said before coming to the centre, he worked as a stylist for a lady in Ikorodu-a small but significant step towards stability.

Now, with his football dreams dimmed, he has his eyes set on something more grounded: learning a handwork-barbing.

‘I would like to open a shop. When I leave here, I want to practice my barbing skills and look for a job.

Harsh realities of rehab life

While Agboche speaks with hope, he does not sugarcoat life inside the rehabilitation centre. ‘The food here is nothing to write home about. We are fed once or twice daily, and the nutrition in the food is appalling,’ he said.

Perhaps more heartbreaking is his lack of visitors. ‘It’s been 10 months. My family hasn’t visited me once. It is what I see here that I eat. I don’t have any money.’

Asked what advice he would give to young people like him, Agboche did not hesitate in offering one: ‘They should stop smoking. They should stay away from bad friends.’

He blamed much of his past on peer pressure. ‘The friends I was moving with led me into it. Anything they want to do, it is friends that allow them. That was how I started. So they should focus on themselves and on God.

‘They should just leave friends on one side and focus on their future dreams and goals.’

Calls for compassion, support

Agboche’s story is not unique. Across Nigeria, thousands of young people battle addiction, mental illness, and abandonment. And while centres like the one in Owutu offer a lifeline, they are often underfunded, overcrowded and in need of reforms.

‘We really need support and care so that the reforms here can stay long,’ Agboche said.

As the sun set over the courtyard, Agboche sat back, his expression unreadable. Is he hopeful? Is he afraid? Perhaps both. But one thing is clear: he wants a better life. Whether the third time will be the charm remains to be seen.

Before anything else, I read the script. From what I learned in school, whatever movie you do is supposed to inform, educate, and entertain at the same time. I didn’t really take it that seriously until one day, I think, when my mom came to visit me. When I was seeing her off at the airport, she saw some people who were like, ‘Ah, can I take a picture? Can I sign an autograph?’ I never really told them what I was doing. So she was like, ‘Ah, this acting you went to do, it’s as if something is coming out of it. When next you’re coming to visit, bring one of your movies so we can watch.’

When I went to visit next, my brothers were there and everything. During the movie, it got to a point where I had a scene with Ini Edo, and we had to kiss. I completely forgot that scene was there because I had looked for the safest movie I could find. As the scene was about to start, I was like, ‘Oh, this scene is coming! Sweat was running down from my armpits, and I just started retreating. My brothers already knew what was coming, so they said, ‘Ah, Mommy, where is this your son going? What is he doing?’ I disappeared from that place, and I looked at myself and thought, ‘I’m not a small boy anymore; why am I so nervous around my mom?’

It dawned on me that the training your parents give you never leaves you. Though it wasn’t a bad movie, it just made me realise I would never take part in a film my mother can’t watch. My dad is late, so that one is different. I think that’s the main thing that really inspires me to make sure I read the scripts of movies I appear in. I don’t care how much you’re paying me or how big the budget is; the message is always the most important.

Are you ever going to step out of your calm persona of doing family-friendly films, perhaps an action role or a character very different from the calm persona we often see on screen?

I had a shot at that in Cheta’M. In it, people hated my gut. It was an English/Igbo series. I played three different characters all in the same body, so my body was inhabited by different spirits and stuff like that, and one was really evil. I enjoyed that one because it was outside my scope, and in fact, I had to learn a different dialect of Igbo. I think that was the most challenging role I’ve ever had, and I like playing bad guys; it’s really good fun. Something outside you and I had to be very energetic outside my normal, calm self and stuff, so it was fun.

You schooled in England and Zambia, and then you also graduated from the University of Nigeria, where you studied English Literature. Did living in England and Zambia affect the man you have become today as an actor?

Immensely, because sometimes I feel like when someone says he is the son of a soldier or a policeman, I understand what they mean. You get posted everywhere, as a soldier or policeman. The children never really gather moss wherever they are; they’re always in different places. I think that’s how I feel sometimes. But kudos to my dad, he made sure that by age four, I could read and write Igbo. My dad banned English from the house; you go outside and speak English. He made sure Igbo was spoken in the house, where I learned everything I knew about my culture. So, I’m kind of a split personality. I’m a very down-to-earth village man, and at the same time, I have everything mixed in me so I can play or do anything that comes to mind because my dad made sure I was rooted, all of us were rooted in our culture right from birth.

If you did not make it as an actor, what other career path would you have chosen?

Teaching, definitely, or I’d have been a writer. I do a bit of storytelling too. But it would have been teaching. My dad was a teacher, and he rose through the ranks. He was a primary school teacher, then went into teacher training school, then went into secondary school teaching, before he was sent on scholarship to go overseas to study, and then came back and became a lecturer. So I went through the whole gamut; I had to learn how to read and write Igbo. Originally, I was supposed to be a doctor, read medicine, but because my father made sure I read a lot of literature, I fell in love with storytelling, and that’s why I insisted I was going to read English literature in the university.

Nollywood has become such an enigma that a lot of people are watching, and we are now getting the attention of the world. What do you think informed us that made us that way? What do you think helped the industry grow into that, and where do you think is the next step for the industry in terms of growth?

It’s simple: self-confidence. My best movies are from 2000 and earlier, dating back to the early ’90s, because they told stories about us, by us, for us. These films were so original and heartfelt, which is what attracted the whole world, even if they didn’t understand our culture. It was so impactful that, whenever I travel to the US, I meet people like Jamaicans giving their children Nigerian names. Everyone knows what Omugwo is, and it really helped us because, surprisingly, abroad, they actually think we swing from trees like monkeys. Imagine their shock when they see beautiful houses and people with a rich culture. Especially with Nigeria, Africa as a whole, or even the black diaspora-when you see a parent disciplining a child in a movie, everyone understands what it means: that broom or slipper will follow you and hit you right on the butt. Black people understand that, and it really resonates because many times they feel alienated, like strangers. But when they see models like Nigeria-so confident-they immediately feel they haven’t lost their culture. They feel connected, and that really endeared them to us. We went through that phase with great storytelling, but lacked proper equipment; it wasn’t very strong. Most was analogue, and as more sophisticated equipment came in, it became about picture quality and what you could produce. The storytelling scene was somewhat pushed aside, and often stories from Bollywood or Western tales were adapted into ours, which alienated viewers-they couldn’t connect. I believe there’s a resurgence of African stories, helped by music. Our music, unapologetically Nigerian, has gained global popularity. I think the film industry has also contributed, like the one I did with Tosin Igho, Uzor Arukwe, and others, which was an amazing story. It was a detective story, but using African methods to find the culprit, with jazz and local traditions. Omowunmi Dada and RMD starred in it. That really resonated with us, sparking a renewal of stories by Africans, for ourselves, and exporting them to the world.

There’s a new trend now that, as a producer, after you’ve done your work, you have to go the extra mile again and make sure to market it. And one of the ways to market it in Nigeria successfully is to dance. You have this sort of sage aura around you; will you dance to promote a film?

Yes, I’ve danced to promote. See, dancing is not something I like to mention because I’m still very angry with Mary Lazarus. I had to dance, and I’m a terrible dancer. I hate dancing because I cannot dance to save my life. The only worse dancer than me is my younger brother. So please, don’t ask me to dance unless you pay me good, I have to rehearse very well beforehand.

What if it’s your film?

I’ll dance. Have you seen white people dance? That’s how I dance, but a white person, when they’re dancing, they dance so terribly, but they believe so much in themselves that they actually enjoy what they’re doing, making fools of themselves. That is how I’ll dance to promote my film.

Do you think it creates a dangerous trend in the industry?

You see, one thing you have to understand is why Nigerians are respected all over the world. They’re like the Agama lizard. If no one praises them, they’ll praise themselves, and that is why what we are known for is anything that works. That is why this country has not crumbled with all the stress it’s going through; they must find something to laugh at or smile, so if it’s dancing that will do the job, so be it.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang produced one of the standout performances of the qualifiers, scoring all four of Gabon’s goals in a thrilling 4-3 victory over The Gambia.

The former Arsenal striker opened the scoring before Yankuba Minteh equalised.

Aubameyang restored Gabon’s lead, only for Adama Sidibeh to strike twice – once before the break and once just after – to put The Gambia ahead.

But the 34-year-old captain dragged his side back, heading in his hat-trick before sealing the win with a thunderous strike from distance.

The night ended on a sour note, however, as Aubameyang was sent off for a second yellow card and will now miss Gabon’s decisive final group clash with Burundi.

Rivers State governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has expressed profound appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his decision to bestow Posthumous Pardon on the Ogoni 9, and the prestigious National Honours Awards on the Ogoni 4.

The governor, who spoke in Government House, Port Harcourt commended the President for granting the Ogoni 9, Ken Saro-Wiwa, Saturday Dobee, Nordu Eawo, Daniel Gboko, Paul Levera, Felix Nuate, Baribor Bera, Barinem Kiobel, and John Kpuine, Posthumous Pardon for their ‘exemplary service to Nigeria and in particular to promote reconciliation within the Ogoni community.

Fubara further applauded Tinubu for awarding the Ogoni 4, chiefs Albert Badey, Edward Kobani, Samuel Orage, and Theophilus Orage the National Honours ‘for their patriotism to Nigeria and in particular to promote reconciliation within the Ogoni community.’

The governor, in a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary (CPS), Nelson Chukwudi, said the Rivers government was grateful to the President, the Council of States and Nigerians for recognising the patriotism of the Ogoni 13.

Fubara explained that the Presidential Pardon and National Honours Awards would promote genuine reconciliation, guarantee enduring peace and unity within the Ogoni communities, and also help accelerate sustainable development in the state.

He assured Tinubu of the unfettered commitment of the Rivers state government to the total reconciliation of all Ogoni people.

The governor expressed optimism that the government’s action would bring renewed hope and restore confidence in the Ogoni communities.

He appealed to the people of the state, particularly the Ogoni people to see the Federal Government’s decision as a significant step towards addressing age-long demands of the communities.

The governor emphasised that the government’s investment in the area was a testament to the commitment to the well-being of the people and development of Ogoniland.

He encouraged the people to key into the policies and programmes of government at all levels to achieve the purpose of governance in the state and the country.

In a related development, the family of the late General Mamman Jiya Vatsa has also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the state pardon granted him saying that Vatsa was innocent of the coup plot allegation.

The Council of State on Thursday approved the exercise of the presidential prerogative of mercy for 175 persons across various categories, including Vatsa. The decision followed a presentation by the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), who conveyed President Bola Tinubu’s recommendations based on the report of the Advisory Committee on the Prerogative of Mercy.

Vatsa was executed for an alleged coup plot against General Ibrahim Babangida regime in 1986 along with nine other military officers after a Military Tribunal found them guilty of an alleged coup plot.

The family of Vatsa said the news has brought the greatest moment of joy to the family since the late Vatsa was executed 39 years ago as they stated various ways they had consistently appealed to every administration since to grant their son a state pardon to enable the family run a foundation in his honor.

The family, in a statement in Minna yesterday, signed by the spokesperson and former commissioner for Information Culture and Tourism and Chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Niger state, Jonathan Vatsa described the news as welcome development adding that President Tinubu has wiped away the tears of the family after 39 years of sorrow and sadness and has given the Gulu Vatsa community, Lapai local government and the entire state hope again.

‘Today is the happiest moment in the life of the family after 39 years of sorrow and sadness following the killing of our late father, brother and uncle. Though nothing can bring him back to life, the family is consoled by this display of statesmanship by our dear president Tinubu. He has written his name in gold and history will forever remember him.

‘Justice can never be denied but can only be delayed, the family is convinced that the late Vatsa must be a Happy person today in his grave by this singular act of compassionate by president Tinubu. This goes to show that truth doesn’t expire’, Vatsa added.

He described the alleged 1986 coup as a frame up, adding that the trial was stage managed with the goal to eliminate the late Vatsa out of envy and hatred for a man who has a root and identity.

Vatsa also disclosed a highly respected Military General, late Domkat Bali once said in an interview that the evidence against General Vatsa was weak and that he doesn’t know whether he was supposed to have been killed.

‘That is why the family still maintained that the late Vatsa was innocent of the coup. But we still thank President Tinubu for his magnanimity in granting him the state pardon. How we wished this was happening when the late wife, some of his late children were still alive, notwithstanding we thank God that some of the children and grandchildren are still alive to witness this pardon’.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), on her birthday, describing her as a devoted public servant and patriotic ambassador of Nigeria.

In a statement on Saturday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President rejoiced with Mrs. Dabiri-Erewa, whose illustrious public career has spanned broadcasting, lawmaking, and leadership in diaspora affairs.

Tinubu recalled her days as a journalist with the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), where she built a reputation for professionalism and empathy, before her election to the House of Representatives in 2003, 2007, and 2011.

During her legislative years, she chaired both the House Committee on Media and Publicity and the House Committee on Diaspora Affairs.

The President lauded the NIDCOM boss for her unwavering dedication to national service, particularly her advocacy for the welfare of Nigerians abroad and her role in strengthening Nigeria’s engagement with its global diaspora community.

‘Mrs. Dabiri-Erewa has demonstrated love for the country and humanity over many years by consistently placing the welfare and well-being of the underprivileged at the centre of her work,’ Tinubu stated.

He further praised her passion, diligence, and foresight in her leadership at NIDCOM, noting that her efforts have enhanced Nigeria’s global reputation and attracted diaspora talents to contribute to the nation’s development, especially in education, health, and sports.

President Tinubu also observed that the numerous awards and recognitions conferred on Dabiri-Erewa over the years were well deserved, reflecting her remarkable service and commitment to the ideals of social justice and national development.

Contrary to rumour being peddled on social media and sections of the society, court documents have revealed that the newly nominated Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan was never a member of the legal team of President Bola Tinubu at both the presidential election tribunal and the Supreme Court while the dispute over the 2023 presidential election lasted.

A search by The Nation through the lists of counsels’ appearances contained in the certified true copies (CTC) of the three judgments of the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal (PEPC) and the two final judgments of the Supreme Court in the 2023 presidential election dispute did not reflect Prof Amupitan’s name.

Those peddling the rumour may have been unable to distinguish the name of Professor Taiwo Osipitan (SAN), who appeared with Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN) along with others for Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima from that of Professor Joash Amupitan.

The PEPC rendered its consolidated judgment on September 6, 2023 on the three petitions that it fully considered.

The three petitions were:

*Petition No: CA/PEPC/03/2023 was filed by Peter Obi and Labour Party (LP), with INEC, Tinubu, Shettima and APC as 1st, 2nd , 3rd and 4th respondents.

*Petition No: CA/PEPC/04/2023 was filed by Allied Peoples Movement (APM), with INEC, APC, Tinubu, Shettima and Kabir Masari listed as 1st to 5th respondents respectively.

*Petition No: CA/PEPC/05/2023 was filed by Atiku Abubakar and the PDP, with INEC, Tinubu and the APC listed as 1st to 3rd respondents respectively.

Appearances of lawyers in Peter Obi and LP’s petition were recorded as follows:

For the petitioners were: Dr. Livy Uzoukwu (SAN, Awa Kalu (SAN), Dr. Onyechi Ikpeazu (SAN), Chief Ben. Anachebe (SAN), Ikechukwu Ezechukwu (SAN), J.S. Okutepa (SAN), Prof. Paul Ananaba (SAN), Dr. Mrs. Valerie – Janette Azinge (SAN), Emeka Okpoko (SAN), Alex Ejesieme (SAN), Peter Afuba (SAN), Emenike Mbanugo, Chike A. Obi and Vincent Ottaokpukpu.

Appearance for INEC (1st respondent) included: A.B. Mahmoud (SAN), Miannaya Essien (SAN), Sir Stephen Adehi (SAN), T.M. Inuwa (SAN), Alhassan A. Umar (SAN), Abdulaziz Sani and S.O. Ibrahim (SAN), Nasara H. Auta, Aminu Sadauki, and Dr. Patricia Obi.

Those who appeared for Tinubu and Kashim Shettima (2nd and 3rd respondents) were: Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN), Chief Akin Olujinmi (SAN), Yusuf Ali (SAN), Emmanuel! Ukala (SAN), Prof. Taiwo Osipitan (SAN), Dele Adesina (SAN), Dr. Hassan Liman (SAN), Olatunde Busari (SAN), A.U. Mustapha (SAN), Kehinde Ogunwumiju (SAN), Bode Olanipekun (SAN), A.A. Malik (SAN), Funmilayo Quadri (SAN), Babatunde Ogala (SAN), Dr. Remi Olatubora (SAN), and M.O. Adebayo (SAN), Emmanuel Uwadoka, Yinka Ajenifuja, and Akintola Makinde.

For the APC (4th respondent) L.O. Fagbemi (SAN), Chief Dr. Charles U. Edosomwan (SAN), Chief Adeniyi Akintola (SAN), Afolabi Fashanu (SAN), Chukwuma Ekomani (SAN), Abiodun J. Owonikoko (SAN), Solomon Umoh (SAN), Hakeem O. Afolabi (SAN), Y.H.A. Ruba (SAN), Chief Anthony Adeniyi (SAN), Mumuni Hanafi (SAN), Japhat Opawale, Olanrewaju Akinshola, and Huwaila M, Ibrahim.

In the petition by APM, Andrew Nwajim Malgwi (SAN), G.A. Idiagbonya, J.0. Olotu, Joyce Torkula, Ndidi Naku, and L.J. Ashaku weed recorded as appearing for the petitioner.

Sir Stephen Adehi (SAN), T.M. Inuwa (SAN), Alhassan A. Umar (SAN), Dr. Patricia Obi, Wendy Kuku and M.A. Attah appeared for the 1st respondent (INEC).

For the APC (2nd respondents) Prince L.O. Fagbemi (SAN), Chief Adeniyi Akintola (SAN), Aliyu O. Saiki (SAN) and A.M. Rafindadi (SAN), Ahmad El-Marzuq, Omosanya Popoola, and Folake Abiodun.

Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN) led the legal team of Tinubu and Shettima, which also featured Chief Akin Olujinmi (SAN), Yusuf Ali (SAN), Babatunde Ogala (SAN), Funmilayo Quadri (SAN), A.R. Arobo, Akintola makinde and Yinka Ajenifuja.

The legal team for Masari (the 5th respondent in this petition) was made up of Dr. Rowland Otaru (SAN), A.A. Malik (SAN), Chris E. Agbiti, Gabriel M. Ishom, Chief Yomi Aliyu (SAN), G.M. Ishom, O.R. Iyere and Edeji Adaeze.

In respect of the petition by Atiku and the PDP, Chief Chris Uche (SAN) Eyitayo Jegede (SAN), Prof. Mike Ozekhome (SAN), Nella Andem-Ewa Rabana (SAN), Dr. Garba Tetengi (SAN), Mahmoud Magaji (SAN), Joe Abraham (SAN), Chukwuma-Machukwu Ume (SAN), Emeka Etiaba (SAN), Prof. Maxwel M. Gidado (SAN), Gordy Uche (SAN), Edward Ashiekaa (SAN), A.K. Ajibade (SAN), Abdul A. Ibrahim (SAN), Paul Harris Ogbole (SAN), Kemasuode Wodu (SAN), Andrew M. Malgwi (SAN), Prof. Yusuf Dankofa, M.S. Atolagbe, and Olabode Makinde appeared for the petitioners.

A.B. Mahmoud (SAN), Miannaya Essien (SAN), Abdullahi Aliyu (SAN, Sir Stephen Adehi (SAN), T.M. Inuwa (SAN), Alhassan A. Umar (SAN), Abdulaziz Sani (SAN), S.O. Ibrahim (SAN), Nasara H. Auta, Aminu Sadauki, and Dr. Patricia Obi appeared for INEC (the first respondent).

Tinubu (the second respondent) was represented by Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN), Chief Akin Olujinmi (SAN), Yusuf Ali (SAN), Emmanuel Ukala (SAN), Prof. Taiwo Osipitan (SAN), Adebayo Adelodun (SAN), Oladele Adesina (SAN), Dr. Hassan Liman (SAN), Olatunde Busari (SAN), Kehinde Ogunwumiju (SAN), Bode Olanipekun (SAN), Mrs. Funmilayo Quadri (SAN), Babatunde Ogala (SAN), Dr. Remi Olatubora (SAN) M.O. Adebayo (SAN), A.A. Malik (SAN), Yinka Ajenifuja, Akintola Makinde, and Julius Ishola.

The APC consisted of Prince L. O. Fagbemi (SAN), Dr. Charles U. Edosomwan,(SAN), Chief Adeniyi Akintola (SAN), Chief A. Fashanu (SAN), Chukwuma Ekoneani (SAN), Abodun J. Owonikoko (SAN), Sam T. Ologunorisha (SAN), Solomon Umoh (SAN), Hakeem O. Afolabi (SAN), Olusola Oke (SAN), Aliyu O. Sanu (SAN), Y. H. A. Ruba (SAN), Chief Anthony Adeniyi (SAN), Mumumi Hanafi (SAN), Ahmad El-Marzuq, Seun Ajayi, and Omosanya Popoola, including Adeniyi Kazeem (SAN).

At the Supreme Court, the judgment was delivered on October 26, 2023 in the appeal marked: SC/CV/937/2023 filed by Peter Obi and the LP, which had INEC, Tinubu, Shettima and the APC as the 1st to 4th respondents respectively.

*The judgment of the Supreme Court was equally delivered on October 26, 2023 in the appeal marked: SC/CV/935/2023 filed by Abubakar Atiku and the PDP, with INEC, Tinubu and the APC as the 1st to 3rd respondents.

The legal team of Peter Obi and the LP (who were the appellants) was made up of Dr. Livy Uzochukwu, (SAN), Awa Kalu (SAN), Alex Ejesieme (SAN), Peter Afuba (SAN) and Chike Obi.

The first respondent (INEC was represented by A. B. Mahmoud, (SAN), Miannaya Essien (SAN), Sir Stephen Adehi (SAN), Musa A. Attah, Chukwudi Enebeli.

Tinubu and Shettima (2nd and 3rd respondents) were represented by Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN), Yusuf Ali (SAN), Emmanuel Ukala, (SAN), Prof. Taiwo Osipitan (SAN) and Akintola Makinde.

The APC team was made up of Chief Akin Olujinmi (SAN), Charles Uwensuyi – Edosomwon, (SAN), Chief Adeniyi Akintola, (SAN), Chief Afolabi Fashanu (SAN and Olumide Olujinmi.

In relation to the appeal by Atiku and the PDP, Chief Chris Uche (SAN), Eyitayo Jegede (SAN), Prof. Mike Ozekhome (SAN), Nella Andem-Ewa Rabana (SAN) and Ahmed T. Uwais represented the appellants.

INEC (the 1st respondent) was represented by A. B. Mahmoud (SAN), Dr. Kemi Pinheiro (SAN), Abdullahi Aliyu (SAN), S. O. Ibrahim (SAN), Aminu Sadauki and Wendy Kuku.

Tinubu was represented by Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN), Yusuf Ali (SAN), Emmanuel Ukala (SAN), Prof. Taiwo Osipitan (SAN) and Akintola Makinde.

The APC was represented by Chief Akin Olujinmi (SAN), Chief Charles Uwensuji Edosonwan (SAN), Chief Adeniyi Akintola (SAN), Chief Afolabi Fashanu (SAN) and Olumide Olujinmi.

New INEC chair not member of Tinubu’s legal team – Ogala

Erstwhile Coordinator of Tinubu Presidential Legal Team, Babatunde Ogala (SAN) has dismissed the rumour that the new INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan (SAN) was a member of Tinubu’s legal team as false and misleading claims.

Ogala, in a statement signed by him, asked the general public to disregard the ‘baseless’ claims.

His words: ‘My attention has been drawn to several false and misleading claims currently circulating on social media, alleging that Prof. Amupitan SAN recently appointed as Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), was a member of the Tinubu Presidential Legal Team.

‘As the erstwhile Coordinator of that legal team, I feel compelled, not as a rejoinder, but in service to truth and public interest, to set the records straight and allay any concerns these malicious fabrications may have caused among well-meaning Nigerians.’

For the avoidance of doubt, the Senior Advocate of Nigeria said Prof. Amupitan SAN was never, at any point, a member of the Tinubu Presidential Legal Team. ‘His name does not appear among the over One Hundred and Twenty-three legal practitioners who were formally engaged for that assignment, of whom sixty (60) were distinguished Senior Advocates of Nigeria. At no time during the entire process was his counsel, opinion, or professional service sought or rendered.

‘I therefore challenge anyone peddling this falsehood to produce verifiable evidence to the contrary. In fact, any member of the public may apply for Certified True Copies of all legal processes filed on behalf of the President-Elect (as he then was) to confirm the authenticity of this statement. While political discourse is inevitable in any democracy, it is essential that our engagement remains anchored on truth, decency, and national stability. Deliberately twisting facts to inflame public sentiment serves no one and only endangers our collective peace.’

He emphasized that Mr. President has lawfully exercised his constitutional prerogative in making this appointment and the Council of State has approved same. ‘It is therefore incumbent upon all responsible citizens, leaders, and media practitioners to reject narratives that are baseless, divisive, unkind, uncharitable and capable of undermining public trust.

‘I reaffirm my unwavering commitment to justice, fairness, and the continued strengthening of our democratic institutions. Let truth, not mischief guide our national conversations. God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.’

You can’t fail Nigerians, opposition lawmakers tell Amupitan

Nigeria’s opposition lawmakers’ coalition yesterday threw their weight behind the appointment of Prof. Joash Amupitan, SAN as the new Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) admitting that his professional background will aide him to deliver on his assignment and not fail Nigerians

The National Council of State on Thursday approved the nomination of Prof. Amupitan, a serving Deputy Vice Chancellor of the University of Jos as the new Chairman of INEC to succeed Prof. Mahmood Yakubu who stepped down from the position on Tuesday.

Spokesperson of the coalition, Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere urged Amupitan not to disappoint Nigerians, but prioritise their interests over political interests.

The statement reads in part, ‘For us as opposition coalition lawmakers, we welcome the appointment made by the President, appointing Amupitan as the new INEC Chairman because looking at his background in terms of academic excellence he comes highly recommended. He can’t fail, he has been a lecturer and a lawyer

‘We have an INEC chairman that knows the difficulty in proving election petition, knows the loopholes etc. He has taught it in the classroom and practiced it in the field and now he’s going to execute it. He has no reason to fail. He has all the professional qualifications required to administer a successful INEC.

‘We don’t have any history of his bad deed, if we do, we would have been among those who will say no to this appointment. We need to judge the man by his past standards, and those past standards are in his professional record.

‘Let us allow him to transition into the position then we start watching his efforts, decisions as the day goes by. The election coming up in Anambra will be a test case to his capacity to handle INEC. Osun too.

‘We believe he has reason to succeed and we also believe he has no reason to fail because he has the professional capacity. Those things he has experienced in the field, now he has the capacity to adjust those loopholes that’s unending. So we welcome his appointment and support him as long as he continues to administer INEC in compliance with the provisions of the law.’

INEC denies disobeying court order, clarifies position on AA leadership dispute

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) says it has not breached any judgment of the Federal High Court which ordered it to recognise the Action Alliance’s (AA) executive elected on 7th October 2023 in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee, Sam Oumekun said in a statement that the commission has fully complied with the order of court.

He said there was no order of court ordering the arrest of the immediate past chairman, Prof Mahmood Yakubu.

The statement reads: ‘Our attention has been drawn to some media reports making the rounds about an order made by the Federal High Court, Oshogbo, Osun State 11 days ago on 29th September 2025, for the arrest of the immediate past INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu for purportedly disobeying its judgement on a case involving the Action Alliance party (AA).

‘But the misleading reports mischievously omitted the Commission’s subsequent action on the case, erroneously portrayed the matter involving a corporate entity, namely INEC, as an individual affair and gave the wrong impression that the Court gave a fresh order after the initial pronouncement made on 29th September.

‘In line with its long-established tradition of always obeying court judgements and orders, the Commission on Monday 6th October 2025, which was still within the deadline, filed processes at the Federal High Court, Oshogbo to show that we had complied with its judgement and order of recognising the Action Alliance’s (AA) executive elected on 7th October 2023 at Abeokuta, Ogun State.

‘The dashboard of the Commission’s web site showing compliance was tendered as evidence.

‘However, when the judgement creditors filed a counter affidavit to complain that the Commission partially complied by listing the names of only four national executives without the National Chairman, Rufai Omoaje, the Commission responded by attaching the Notice of Appeal filed by the same Omoaje at the Supreme Court, challenging the judgement of the Court of Appeal sacking him as the National Chairman of the party.

‘The judgement of the Court of Appeal is superior to that of the federal high court, hence, the Commission cannot list Omoaje’s name as the Chairman of the Action Alliance party when the judgement of the Appeal Court is still subsisting.

‘We appeal to media organisations to fact-check their reports before publication to avoid misleading the public’.

Meanwhile, the Chief Technical Adviser to the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof Bolade Eyinla has explained why it isn’t feasible to strip the president of power to appoint the commission’s chairman as the 2027 general election approaches.

He disclosed this while speaking at the YIAGA Africa 2027 elections scenarios and election manipulation risk in red retreat in Abuja.

According to him, ‘any talk of reviewing the process of appointing the Chairman, National and Resident Electoral Commissioners of INEC by removing the power of appointment from the President under the prevailing circumstances is not feasible before the 2027 general election in view of the tedious process of altering any of the provisions in the Constitution.’

He explained that after a review of the 2023 general election, 142 recommendations were made for improving the electoral process, adding that the Commission has taken necessary steps to implement some of the recommendations arising from the review that requires administrative action.

The Bauchi State Government has secured over $5.2 billion (around ?7.8 trillion) in fresh investments with 47 Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) signed with both local and international investors during the recently concluded Bauchi Economic and Investment Summit.

The two-day summit, which drew business leaders, diplomats, and development partners from across Nigeria and beyond, aimed to highlight the state’s vast business potential and investment opportunities.

A key deal was a $2.7 billion agreement with China Fuhai Energy Group to build a Petrochemical City Complex in Bauchi. The project is expected to drive industrial growth and create thousands of jobs for residents.

Additionally, the African Athlete Academy signed a $1 billion MoU to establish a world-class sports and youth development centre in the state, aimed at training young athletes and promoting sports tourism.

Other agreements were reached in vital sectors including agriculture, solid minerals, power, tourism, and natural resources, reflecting investors’ growing confidence in Bauchi’s business environment.

Governor Bala Mohammed described the summit as ‘a turning point’ for the state, promising that his administration would ensure full implementation of the agreements to deliver lasting economic growth and development.

Amnesty International has urged the Federal Government to immediately investigate widespread killings, disappearances, and other human rights abuses allegedly committed by both armed groups and security forces in the Southeast region since 2015.

In a new report titled ‘A Decade of Impunity: Attacks and Unlawful Killings in Southeast Nigeria,’ the human rights group said no fewer than 1,844 people were killed between January 2021 and June 2023 as violence spiraled across the region.

Amnesty accused government forces, state-backed militias, and criminal gangs of carrying out unlawful killings, torture, arbitrary arrests, and enforced disappearances, warning that failure to act has entrenched a culture of impunity.

‘The Nigerian authorities’ brutal clampdown on pro-Biafra protests from August 2015 plunged the Southeast into an endless cycle of bloodshed, creating fear and leaving communities vulnerable,’ said Isa Sanusi, Director of Amnesty International Nigeria.

Gunmen kill hundreds

The report blamed much of the violence on so-called ‘unknown gunmen’ who have terrorized residents, targeting police stations, government facilities, and civilians across the Southeast.

Amnesty said more than 400 people were killed in Imo State alone between 2019 and 2021, with many others injured or displaced.

Survivors told the organisation that the attackers often demand money from communities during burials and weddings, burning homes of those who resist.

‘If they come for an attack, anyone that blocks their way is killed. It’s been a terrible situation; people are scared,’ said one survivor from Ihiala, Anambra State.

IPOB, Ebube Agu, and state forces fingered

While the Nigerian government blames the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), for the attacks, both groups deny responsibility.

However, Amnesty said IPOB’s sit-at-home order, issued in August 2021, has also triggered widespread abuses, including beatings, killings, and economic hardship for residents who defy the directive.

The group further accused the Ebube Agu paramilitary outfit, formed by Southeast governors in April 2021, of intimidation, torture, and extrajudicial executions.

It said some communities, including Agwa and Izombe in Imo State, and Lilu in Anambra, have become ‘ungoverned spaces’ controlled by armed groups.

Climate of fear, no justice

Amnesty noted that many residents now avoid travelling home for fear of attack, while traditional ceremonies and markets have been disrupted by insecurity.

Despite the scale of the atrocities, the group said justice and compensation remain elusive.

‘The authorities are failing to protect lives and ensure law and order. Impunity for these crimes has a chilling effect on human rights,’ Sanusi said.

Amnesty called on the Nigerian government to launch prompt, impartial, and transparent investigations into all abuses, prosecute offenders, and compensate victims.

It also urged security agencies to respect human rights and restore public confidence in the rule of law.

Background

Amnesty International has tracked human rights violations in the Southeast since 2015.

The latest report, based on more than 100 interviews and field missions to Imo, Anambra, Delta, and Enugu states, builds on earlier findings shared with regional governors and federal security agencies, to which, the group said, no response has been received.