PDP vows to resist APC’s ‘one-party totalitarian’ agenda

 

The Peoples Democratic Party has asked President Bola Tinubu to reverse all his anti-people policies, vowing that it won’t bow to intimidation by the Federal Government.

 

This was stated in the communiqué of the PDP’s 99th National Executive Committee meeting, read by Acting National Chairman Umar Damagum, during the session held in Abuja on Tuesday.

 

While reading the NEC communiqué, Damagum joined by other members of the PDP National Working Committee stated that the party’s leadership expressed deep concern over the dire and troubling condition of the nation under President Tinubu’s administration.

 

According to Damagum, the PDP NEC described Tinubu’s administration as hopelessly exploitative, insensitive, and opposed to the interests of the people.

 

Damagum said, “NEC condemns the worsening insecurity; the wanton killings, banditry, kidnapping, marauding of communities and other acts of terrorism in various parts of our country, emboldened by President Tinubu’s apparent negligence and abdication of his Constitutional duty to ensure the safety and security of the nation and her citizens.

 

“NEC also laments the worsening economic hardship and extreme poverty in the country occasioned by the ill-advised and ill-implemented polices of the Tinubu administration; hike in fuel price, wanton increase in electricity tariff, multiple taxes and unexplained charges on services, resulting in collapse of the productive sector, closure of millions of businesses, massive loss of jobs, rise in criminality and general sense of misery across the country.

 

“NEC condemns the policy inconsistency, wholesale corruption, massive treasury-looting, budget padding and diversion of public funds that pervade the Tinubu administration resulting in infrastructural retrogression and loss of investors’ confidence in our system.

“NEC restates the PDP demand that President Tinubu administration should rescind all its anti-people policies and take practical steps to address the insecurity and economic recession in the country.”

 

Damagum remarked that Tinubu’s administration is making deliberate efforts to turn Nigeria into a one-party state due to fears of the APC’s likely defeat in the 2027 elections.

 

He stated, “NEC stands in firm resistance to the sinister plot by the Tinubu-led APC to turn Nigeria into a one-Party totalitarian state as evidenced in the desperate attempts to stifle and annihilate opposition parties through open siege, threats and intimidation of opposition figures and institutions of democracy in Nigeria.

 

“It is clear that this plot is borne out of APC’s mortal fear of inevitable defeat in 2027 due to its dismal failure in government.”

 

In his earlier remarks, the Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum and Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, accused the Federal Government of using intimidation and exclusion tactics, pledging to oppose such actions and stay committed to upholding good governance.

 

Mohammed disclosed that the PDP has experienced defections and coalition discussions affecting some members, but he stressed that the party remains united and determined to fulfill its mandate.

 

He stated, “Despite these pressures, our members remain steadfast and unwavering. There is no form of intimidation or persuasion that we, as elected governors and members, have not encountered. Yet, we remain resolute in our commitment.”

Children’s Day: Aiyedatiwa urges collective action against bullying in Ondo

 

The Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has called on all stakeholders to join hands and work against all forms of abuse of children, most especially bullying in the society.

 

Aiyedatiwa, who described bullying as a form of aggressive behaviour where someone intentionally harms, intimidates or humiliates another person repeatedly, said all hands must be on deck to protect the rights of the children.

 

The governor stated this at the 2025 edition of the National Children’s Day celebration, held in Akure, the state capital, on Tuesday.

 

Speaking on the theme of the celebration, ‘Stand up, speak up – building a bullying-free generation’, the governor explained that bullying could be physical, verbal or social and it leaves lasting harm.

 

He noted that children who were bullied may suffer emotionally, physically and academically which could lead to anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, sleep disturbances and even social isolation.

 

Aiyedatiwa said, “Our children deserve better. They need our protection from all forms of harassment, exploitation and abuse. To build a bullying-free generation, we must act collectively and decisively. We must build a society free from oppression, injustice and inhumane treatment. We must build a generation of young people who are bold, resilient and confident. A generation that knows their rights and is not afraid to stand up for what is right, not just for themselves but for their peers as well.

“This is how we build a truly inclusive and safe society. All hands must therefore be on deck – parents, teachers, school administrators, religious bodies, traditional institutions, associations and government at all levels must play their part. And so must our children, who must be encouraged to speak up and support one another. We must instil empathy and kindness in our children.

 

“When we put ourselves in others’ shoes, we can build stronger relationships and more caring communities. Education is key to preventing bullying. We must raise awareness about its harmful effects and promote positive behaviour in all learning environments. We must also build robust support systems for victims: counselling, mentoring and safe spaces must be readily available. Moreover, we must empower bystanders to become upstanders – those who do not remain silent but act when they see something wrong.

 

“As a government, we remain unwavering in our commitment to child protection policies, school safety initiatives and programmes that promote mental and emotional health in our schools and communities. By the special grace of God, the government of Ondo State shall continue to prioritise the welfare of our children through our various initiatives, including payment of WAEC fees for secondary school students and the renovation of public schools across the State. We have also recruited over two thousand teachers for public secondary and primary schools to improve the standard of education in the state.”

 

Corroborating Aiyedatiwa, the Special Adviser to the governor on Women Affairs, Seun Osamaye, called on all stakeholders to take action against bullying among the children in schools and other areas.

 

“National Children’s Day is a significant National event that affords us the opportunity of celebrating our children by networking and also advocating for social welfare and rights in society. It is a day set aside to recognise, honour, celebrate and appreciate our children. It was established to promote international awareness, Unity, love among children worldwide, and to improve their welfare.

 

“This year’s theme, ‘Stand up, speak up; building a bullying-free generation’, is apt and timely as it addresses critical issues in school settings and calls on us all to take action against bullying among children and young adults, empowering our children to speak up through advocacy and confidence building.

Eto’o, Adebayor, Okocha play peace match in Somalia

 

Three African football legends – Samuel Eto’o, Emmanuel Adebayor and Jay-Jay Okocha – took to the pitch in Somalia on Tuesday for an exhibition match aimed at restoring the country’s image.

 

The three superstars were part of a FIFA-backed “peace tour” that Somalia hopes will help it once again host international fixtures.

 

Somalia has been in a state of near-constant internal conflict since 1991, and its national team has had to play matches mostly in neighbouring Djibouti.

 

The national stadium in Mogadishu, the capital, was heavily damaged after being used as a base by Al-Qaeda-linked Al-Shabaab insurgents from 2008 and then by African Union peacekeepers who chased them out of the city.

 

It was renovated and reopened for sports in 2020.

 

The arrival of Cameroon icon Eto’o, former Togo striker Adebayor and ex-Nigeria playmaker Okocha for what was billed as the first high-profile match in three decades was labelled “a historic day” by the sports ministry.

 

The three stars led an international team to an 8-4 victory against a team of local players.

 

“We just pray for God to give you guys peace, so that you can build your country,” Adebayor told reporters after the match, adding that the occasion was “beautiful and incredible”.

Security Minister Mohamed Ali Haga described the match as a chance to “change the perception of the world towards Somalia… and show the world that Mogadishu is peaceful and can host other African matches”.

 

Security was tight around the stadium in southern Mogadishu.

 

Hundreds of fans showed up hours in advance of the match, many waving the Somali flag.

 

“This is a great day for me — to watch a player like Eto’o who has inspired me so much — I cannot miss such a great occasion. It is like I’m seated in the Barcelona stadium,” one fan, Mowlid Ali, told AFP.

 

“The game here today is not a simple football match. This match will definitely demonstrate how Somalia is reviving from the war that has ravaged the country for a long time,” added another, Abdirahman Dhere.

 

Somalia has reportedly asked FIFA and Confederation of African Football to re-evaluate its security situation to be able to hold future fixtures.

Delegates from the CAF and Council for East and Central Africa Football Associations were present for the match.

JUST IN: Dhul Hijjah crescent moon sighted in Saudi Arabia

 

The authorities of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia have confirmed the sighting of the Dhul Hijjah crescent, signaling the beginning of the 12th month in the Islamic calendar.

 

In a message posted on Tuesday by Haramain, a Saudi-based online news platform, via X, it was stated that “Wednesday would be the first day of Dhul Hijjah.”

 

Muslims worldwide journey to Makkah for hajj during Dhul Hijjah.

According to Haramain’s message, “June 5 would be the day of Arafat,” while “June 6 would be the day of Eid-el-Adha,” the largest festival in the Muslim calendar.

 

Dhul Hijjah is regarded as a sacred month, a period marked by increased devotion, reflection, and worship.

LagRide drivers lament app failures, poor services

 

The Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria has decried the non-fulfilment of commitments by LagRide and Choice International Group Motors Ltd.

 

The Public Relations Officer, AUATON, Lagos Chapter, Steven Iwindoye, said this in a statement on Tuesday in Lagos.

Iwindoye said that after undergoing a mandatory four-day training programme, most commitments made during the period had not been honoured.

 

He said app-based transporters could not make consistent progress as the LagRide app had failed to function optimally.

 

Iwindoye said the drivers were faced with persistent frustrations and operational challenges across various parts of Lagos State.

 

“Captains in areas such as Ikorodu, Badagry; Igando; Abule Egba; Alagbado; Epe; and other outskirts are often unable to receive trip requests, especially in the mornings or even during the day, unless they relocate to the Island, Ikeja, or central parts of Lagos.

 

“Many commuters in these areas have already turned to alternative modes of transportation, due to the inefficiencies that have existed since the service’s inception.

 

“It is deeply concerning that a project of this scale was launched without comprehensive market research, advertisement, or visibility studies.

 

The ongoing struggles suggest a lack of understanding of the gig economy and the realities of the e-hailing industry.

 

“Instead of addressing these systemic issues, undue blame continues to be placed on hardworking captains, who are striving to meet asset repayment obligations and support their families.

 

“Expecting captains to remain exclusively on the LagRide app without receiving trip requests for hours, while providing no incentives or meaningful improvements, is unsustainable,” he said.

 

Iwindoye noted that Promised features such as daily remittance visibility and in-app asset repayment tracking remained unfulfilled.

 

He said the app’s limited visibility across Lagos had compounded issues, hence, urging the team to initiate a comprehensive, state-wide public awareness and advertising campaign.

 

According to him, without this, low user engagement will persist, not due to lack of interest, but due to inadequate reach and public awareness.

He said the captains had borne the costs of vehicle repairs, maintenance, and insurance for over two years, in spite having paid these fees to Ibile Holdings.

Iwindoye said in the event of accidents, there had been no access to the insurance they consistently paid for.

 

“We are also concerned about the app’s current data and user policy framework, which seems to reflect principles of China’s Cybersecurity Law.

 

“This approach mandates extensive identity collection and surveillance practices that do not align with Nigeria’s labour and data protection standards.

 

“As a sovereign nation, Nigeria is governed by the NIMC Act and the Nigeria Data Protection Regulation, which provide distinct legal protections.

 

“Enforcing foreign data frameworks on Nigerian workers constitutes a breach of our sovereignty and undermines our national legal structures.

 

“We respectfully call on the CIG and LagRide management to review and revise the app’s data and user policy to reflect Nigerian Labour laws and data protection regulations, not foreign cybersecurity policies incompatible with our national framework.

 

“The management should ensure that the LagRide app operates efficiently across all regions of Lagos, and launch a sustained and robust advertising campaign to improve service visibility and adoption,” he said.

 

He enjoined LagRide management to implement previously promised incentives to the drivers, to encourage continued participation and improve service delivery.

 

He urged that there should be full transparency and access to insurance, vehicle maintenance, and asset repayment tracking through the app.

 

“We respectfully call on LagRide management to immediately switch to daily payments as originally agreed, instead of the current twice-weekly disbursements, which violate the agreement made with the NLC/AUATON.

 

“Given the gravity of these issues, we strongly recommend a collaborative return to the drawing board.

 

“Let us redesign this initiative together, to truly serve the needs of both captains and the broader public, ensuring the long-term sustainability and success of the LagRide scheme,” Iwindoye said.

Children’s Day: Peter Obi urges better care for Nigerian children

 

On the occasion of Children’s Day, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, has called on Nigerians, especially leaders, to prioritise the welfare and future of the country’s children, whom he described as “the heartbeat of our nation and the bearer of our collective hopes and dreams.”

 

In a statement released on Tuesday, Obi emphasised the need for urgent attention to the challenges faced by Nigerian children.

 

“Days like this offer us the opportunity to appreciate the immense potential of our children, who represent the hope of a brighter tomorrow in our nation if only we care for them today,” he said.

 

According to Obi, Nigerian children deserve “a nation that prioritises their well-being, education, safety, and future.”

 

Highlighting the demographic significance of children in Nigeria, Obi cited a 2023 UNICEF report estimating that over 110 million people under the age of 18 live in the country, representing a large proportion of Nigeria’s population.

 

“Such high numbers of young people in Nigeria should challenge us, as leaders, to commit wholeheartedly to investing in the future of the children. Their future is the future of the nation,” he stated.

 

Despite their potential, Obi pointed out that many Nigerian children face harsh realities from birth.

 

“Nigeria today is among the nations with the highest infant mortality rates in the world,” he said.

 

He also referenced a 2024 UNICEF report revealing that around 11 million Nigerian children suffer from severe food poverty, with one in four children under five stunted due to malnutrition, especially in rural and remote areas.

 

The former vice presidential candidate also drew attention to the education crisis in the country, where over 18 million children are currently out of school – “among the highest in the world.”

 

Obi described this as “a deep national wound,” stressing that “each out-of-school child represents a dream deferred, a future endangered, and a country that is failing to uphold its most sacred responsibility.”

He lamented that while many children learn on the streets, schools remain underfunded, unsafe, or inaccessible.

 

Obi further criticised the state of healthcare for children, stating that “primary healthcare that should cater to the basic healthcare needs of our children is practically non-existent.”

 

Obi also raised concerns about insecurity affecting children.

“Violence, kidnapping, and abuse have forced thousands of children to flee their homes, live in fear, or grow up in regions where dreams are stifled by conflict,” he said.

 

Quoting a 2022 report from the National Bureau of Statistics, Obi said 46.5% of children aged 5-14 were engaged in child labour, describing this as “heartbreaking to see the future of our children jeopardised when they should be nurtured.”

 

Despite the many challenges, Obi acknowledged the resilience and talent of Nigerian children, urging Nigerians to support and encourage them.

 

“Their dreams are valid and we must invest in their future, our future!” he declared.

 

Obi reaffirmed his commitment and promised to work toward a Nigeria “where every Nigerian child can feel secure, grow in peace, enjoy good access to education and health and have the enabling environment to pursue their dreams and contribute productively to societal development.”

 

He emphasised the importance of building “a nation where no child is left behind and where the child of a nobody can become somebody through hard work and productivity.”

 

“We will continue to fight for a Nigeria where you can dream freely, learn safely, and rise boldly. That is the country we must build, and we owe you nothing less,” Obi added.

Fubara hails Rivers children, pledges commitment to youth development

 

Suspended Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has extended warm greetings and heartfelt wishes to children across the state in celebration of the 2025 Children’s Day.

 

In his message to mark the occasion, Fubara described this year’s national theme, “tapping the untapped natural treasure,” as a powerful reminder of the immense and often overlooked potential that lies within every child.

 

This was contained in a statement issued in Port Harcourt by his media aide, Nelson Chukwudi, and sent to newsmen.

 

The governor stated, “You, our children, are the most precious treasure we have. Your talents, dreams, energy, and creativity are limitless gifts waiting to be nurtured and unlocked for the good of our state and our nation.”

 

Reaffirming his administration’s unwavering commitment to the well-being and development of children, Fubara highlighted ongoing investments in education, healthcare, and child protection.

He further said these efforts are aimed at building a future where every child in Rivers State can thrive.

 

Fubara said, “We are creating platforms where your gifts can shine because we believe that every child in Rivers State has something unique to offer. Let this day remind you that you matter, your voice counts, and your dreams are valid.”

 

The governor also commended the vital role played by parents, teachers, and caregivers in raising the younger generation and called on all stakeholders to continue working collaboratively to help every child discover and fulfil their potential.

 

While encouraging the children, Fubara added, “Happy Children’s Day, our beloved children. God bless you all, God bless Rivers State, God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”

If you see me sad, it’s about money, not heartbreak – Toke Makinwa

 

Media personality and fashion lover, Toke Makinwa, has once again caught attention online with her mix of humour, honesty, and glam.

 

On Tuesday, she posted on Instagram saying she’s officially done with heartbreak, unless it’s about money.

 

“My age no longer allows me to suffer for love.

 

“If you see me sad, it’s because of money o,” she wrote.

 

Many of her fans reacted with laughter and praise while others appreciated her honesty, calling her a mood.

Toke didn’t stop at just sharing her thoughts, she also showed off a sleek high ponytail that got fans talking.

 

“Love me a good pony though,” she added, tagging her hairstylist @malliaworld for the “flawless frontal” and @akano_diamonds for the sparkling jewellery.

 

This came months after she publicly expressed her openness to remarrying, even as a second or third wife.

 

During an interview on her podcast, tokemoments, she spoke about her evolving views on marriage and her willingness to get married again, even as a second, third, or fifth wife.

 

“In all honesty, at this point in my life, if I have the opportunity to be the second, third, fourth, or fifth wife, I will take it,” Toke said during the podcast.

Navy destroys eight illegal refining sites in N’Delta creeks 27t

 

Personnel of the Nigerian Navy, Forward Operating Base Escravos, have deactivated eight illegal refining sites in the Niger Delta creeks in a sustained effort to enhance Nigeria’s daily crude oil output and combat economic sabotage.

 

The Commanding Officer of the FOB Escravos, Navy Capt. Ikenna Okoloagu, told journalists in Warri, Delta State, on Tuesday, that the exploits followed a series of successful operations targeting crude oil theft, pipeline vandalism, and other illicit activities in the region.

 

“In total, the three operations led to the deactivation of eight illegal refining sites, with the seizure of approximately 16,040 litres of stolen crude oil and 1,650 litres of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO),” he said.

 

According to him, the materials were found in two ovens, 43 dugout pits, and 18 polythene sacks.

 

Okoloagu added, “These operations, conducted under Operation DELTA SANITY II and guided by actionable intelligence, underscore FOB ESCRAVOS’ unwavering commitment to the strategic directives of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, aimed at eliminating all forms of maritime illegality in Nigeria’s territorial waters.

“On May 14, 2025, based on credible intelligence, FOB ESCRAVOS operatives uncovered and dismantled two illegal refining sites at Obodo Omadino, in Warri South-West Local Government Area, Delta State. The sites contained approximately 5,625 litres of stolen crude oil, stored in one oven and 17 dugout pits.

 

“Subsequently, on May 19, 2025, three more illegal refining sites were discovered and dismantled in the same vicinity. This operation led to the recovery of approximately 2,500 litres of stolen crude oil and 1,650 litres of illegally refined AGO, stored in one oven, five dugout pits, and 18 polythene sacks.

 

“Maintaining operational momentum, FOB Escravos personnel conducted a follow-up operation on May 26, 2025, uncovering and deactivating another three illegal refining sites at Oteghele, also in Obodo Omadino. These sites harboured an estimated 7,915 litres of stolen crude oil, concealed in 21 dugout pits.

 

“FOB Escravos remains committed to its mandate of disrupting the operations of economic saboteurs and ensuring that Nigeria harnesses the full benefits of its natural resources.”

Akarigbo of Remoland Hosts Grand Royal Reception in Honour of Aare Adetola EmmanuelKing’s 50th Birthday

 

Akarigbo of Remoland Hosts Grand Royal Reception in Honour of Aare Adetola EmmanuelKing’s 50th Birthda

 

In a magnificent display of royal honour and cultural pride, His Royal Majesty, Oba (Dr.) Babatunde Adewale Ajayi, CFR, the Akarigbo and Paramount Ruler of Remoland, hosted a grand royal reception in celebration of the 50th birthday of Aare Adetola EmmanuelKing, KOF, the Otun Akile of Remoland.

 

The prestigious event, held at the Sagamu residence of the Akarigbo, drew an esteemed gathering of traditional rulers, captains of industry, political dignitaries, and members of the Remo community. Together, they celebrated a man whose life has been defined by visionary leadership, a deep-rooted commitment to development, and philanthropy across Remoland and Nigeria at large.

 

Aare Adetola EmmanuelKing, who also serves as Chairman/CEO of Adron Group, was visibly moved by the royal honour. In an emotional expression of gratitude, he described the event as a defining moment in his life.

 

“This goes far beyond a birthday celebration,” he said. “It is a sacred reminder of the unbreakable bond I share with my heritage, my people, and most especially, my revered father, the Akarigbo.

 

“I am deeply humbled by this royal gesture. To be so honoured by the custodian of our culture and tradition, His Royal Majesty, the Akarigbo, is one of the highest privileges of my life. It is a call to even greater service and sacrifice for the land that raised me. I thank Kabiyesi for his unflinching support, for his prayers, and for this unforgettable display of love. I pledge my continued loyalty and service to the Remo Kingdom and the enduring vision of unity, progress, and prosperity that he so nobly represents.”

 

The ceremony was rich with cultural heritage, featuring traditional music, heartfelt prayers, and powerful tributes that resonated with the values of Remoland.

 

In his royal address, the Akarigbo lauded Aare Adetola EmmanuelKing as “a visionary son of the soil whose legacy of service is etched in the sands of time.” He commended him for his steadfast loyalty to the throne and for being a beacon of hope and transformation within and beyond Remo.

 

As the golden jubilee celebration of Sir Aare Adetola EmmanuelKing, KOF, continues, the outpouring of tributes from across the nation reflects the impact of a life lived with purpose, a man who has not only built homes but has built lives, uplifted communities, and carried the light of Remoland wherever he goes.

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