Flowerbud News

Year: 2026

  • Mideast in Pictures: Iranians mourn families killed in U.S.-Israeli strikes, Tehran says more than 1,300 civilians dead

    Mideast in Pictures: Iranians mourn families killed in U.S.-Israeli strikes, Tehran says more than 1,300 civilians dead

     

     

    TEHRAN,  (Xinhua) /Flowerbudnews:  – Families in Tehran mourned relatives killed in U.S.-Israeli airstrikes, as Iran said the attacks have killed more than 1,300 civilians and destroyed 9,669 civilian sites since Feb. 28.

    “They are deliberately and indiscriminately targeting civilians and civilian infrastructure across my country.

    They show no respect for international law and no restraint in committing these crimes,” Amir Saeid Iravani, Iran’s ambassador and permanent representative to the United Nations, said Tuesday.

     

     

  • OPINION: Why Ede Still Stands With Adeleke

    OPINION: Why Ede Still Stands With Adeleke

     

    By Waliu Adetokun

    The recent appointment of the former speaker of Osun state House of Assembly Rt. Hon. Adejare Bello has sparked conversations in political circles across Osun State. In a political environment where every development is often interpreted through a political viewpoint, some have suggested that the appointment could alter the political dynamics within Ede.

    However, a closer look at the mood within the town suggests otherwise.

    Ede remains firmly united in its support for Governor Ademola Adeleke, whose leadership continues to command significant goodwill among many residents.

    Ede has long been recognized as a politically oriented community.Its people are not strangers to political strategies, alignments, or attempts to influence public perception.

    Because of this awareness, many residents tend to assess political developments not by speculation but by their real impact on governance and community development.

    This explains why the suggestion that Adejare Bello’s appointment could divide Ede has not gained meaningful ground among the people.Political appointments may carry symbolic value, but they rarely determine the collective political direction of a community that already has a clear understanding of its interest.A common Yoruba expression captures this sentiment, “Omo wa gba feeder appointment.”

    In essence, the saying reflects the belief that while individuals may receive appointments, the broader political conviction of the community remains guided by its own collective judgement.For many in Ede, the conversation is less about political maneuvering and more about governance.

    Since assuming office, Governor Adeleke has pursued policies ,aimed at infrastructure renewal, improved welfare for workers, and development initiatives across Osun State.

    These efforts have helped strengthen the relationship between and the administration and grassroots communities.

    In politics, performance often speaks louder than strategy.Where people see tangible improvements in governance and leadership that appears accessible, loyalty tends to follow naturally.This reality continues to shape public sentiment in Ede.It is also important to recognize that communities like Ede rarely respond positively to attempts at political division.

    Historically, the town has demonstrated a tendency to rally around leadership it believes is working in the interest of the people.As the 2026 governoship election approaches, political actors will undoubtedly continue to test different strategies to win public support.

    Yet the ultimate decision will rest with the electorate, whose judgement is often influenced by their lived experiences under a particular administration.For many residents of Ede, those experiences under Governor Adeleke have created a sense of confidence in the direction of governance in Osun State.

    Whether through public discourse or eventually through the ballot, the people of Ede are expected to make their position clear.If current sentiments are any indication, the town’s message may well centre on continuity of governance, continuity of development, and continuity of leadership they believe has remained connected to the grassroots.As always a democracy, the final verdict will come from the people.

    Courtesy: Osun Spring

  • Court adjourns El-Rufai’s N1bn suit against ICPC, others until March 25

    Court adjourns El-Rufai’s N1bn suit against ICPC, others until March 25

     

    The Federal High Court in Abuja, on Wednesday, adjourned a fundamental rights enforcement suit filed by former Gov. Nasir El-Rufai of Kaduna State against Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and four others until March 25 for hearing.

    Justice Joyce Abdulmalik adjourned the case to allow parties in the suit regularise their processes.

    El-Rufai is demanding a N1 billion in damages against ICPC, the Chief Magistrate at the Magistrate’s Court of the FCT, Abuja; Inspector-General (I-G) of Police and the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), named as 1st to 4th respondents respectively.

    When the base was called, Ubong Akpan, who appeared for El-Rufai, informed the court that the mater was fixed for hearing.

    However, he said they had just responded to ICPC’s counter affidavit but yet to respond to the I-G’s.

    Abdulsufiano Abubakar, ICPC’s lawyer, and the police counsel, Ezekiel Rimamsomte, confirmed Akpan’s submission.

    Justice Abdulmalik consequently adjourned the matter until March 25 for hearing.

    The judge ordered that the 2nd respondent (Chief Magistrate) and 4th respondent (AGF), who were not represented in court, be issued and served with hearing notices.

    The former governor, in an originating motion on notice marked: FHC/ABJ/CS/345/2026, dated and filed Feb. 20 by Oluwole Iyamu, SAN, sought seven reliefs.

    He prayed the court to declare that the invasion and search of his residence at House 12, Mambilla Street, Aso Drive, Abuja, on Feb. 19 at about 2pm by the and ICPC and I-G, amounts to a gross violation of the applicant’s fundamental rights .

    He said that it was a violation to dignity of the human person, personal liberty, fair hearing, and privacy under Sections 34, 35, 36, and 37 of the Constitution.”

    He urged the court to declare that “any evidence obtained pursuant to the aforesaid invalid warrant and unlawful search is inadmissible in any proceedings against the applicant, as it was procured in breach of constitutional safeguards.”

    El-Rufai, therefore, sought an order of injunction restraining the respondents and their agents from further relying on, using, or tendering any evidence or items seized during the unlawful search in any investigation, prosecution, or proceedings involving him.

    He sought an order directing the Ist and 3rd respondents (ICPC and I-G) to forthwith retum all items seized from the applicant’s premises during the unlawful search, together with a detailed inventory thereof.

    He also sought an order awarding the sum of N1,000,000,000.00 (One Billion Naira) as general, exemplary, and aggravated damages, among others.

    Responding, in its counter affidavit, the ICPC said it received a petition against El-Rufai and acting on the petition, it commenced an investigation, leading to the search at his residence.

    It argued that its operatives acted under a valid search warrant issued on Feb. 18 and executed on Feb. 19 between 1:37pm and 3:56pm at 12 Mambilla Street, Asokoro, Abuja.

    The commission said its officials were accompanied by personnel of the Nigeria Police Force, and that the exercise was witnessed by El-Rufai’s wife, Hadiza El-Rufai, and his son, Mohammed El-Rufai.

    The ICPC, which urged the court to dismiss the suit, listed the items allegedly recovered from the residence.

    The police, also in its counter affidavit deposed to by Insp Ewa Anthony, argued that it had the statutory power to detect, arrest, investigate and prosecute offenders.

    It argued that the search carried out at El-Rufai’s residence was executed pursuant to a search warrant issued by a competent court of law.

    It disagreed with the ex-governor that that search warrant was invalid, insisting that it was a genuine court order.

    It said that its officers who carried out the operation, complied with all applicable legal procedures in the execution of the search warrant.

    According to the police, the applicant is trying to use the honourable court to shield him away from the security investigation and prosecution in the court of law.

    It, therefore, prayed the court to dismiss the suit in its entirety.

  • 2027: Jonathan Posters Surface in Northern Cities; Fuels Speculations

    2027: Jonathan Posters Surface in Northern Cities; Fuels Speculations

     

    Campaign posters promoting former President Goodluck Jonathan for the 2027 presidential election have surfaced in parts of northern Nigeria, sparking fresh political speculation ahead of the next general election, Blueprint gathered.

    The posters, which appeared overnight in key locations across Kaduna, Kano and Katsina, carried slogans suggesting a possible return to national politics for the former Nigerian leader who served from 2010 to 2015.

    In Kaduna, several of the posters were sighted along the busy Ahmadu Bello Way and around the popular Kawo Bridge, drawing the attention of commuters and residents early Monday morning.

    The posters bore inscriptions such as “One Term to Reset, One Nation to Unite” and “2027: Sai Maimalfa,” fuelling conversations among political observers and residents about the possibility of Jonathan returning to the presidential race.

    A group identified as the GEJ Restoration Movement claimed responsibility for the posters, describing the action as part of a grassroots effort aimed at encouraging the former president to consider another run for office.

    According to the group, Jonathan remained a unifying figure who could help address the country’s political divisions and economic challenges if he returns to leadership.

    However, there has been no official statement from the former president regarding the posters or any intention to contest the 2027 election.

    The development has also generated reactions within political circles, with some analysts suggesting that the appearance of the posters reflects growing political realignments ahead of the next electoral cycle.

    Meanwhile, supporters of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu have downplayed the development, describing it as routine political activity often seen years before

    Source

  • Onyeme Says Oborevwori’s Administration Is Assisting Federal University of Medical and Health Sciences, Kwale, in Several Ways

    Onyeme Says Oborevwori’s Administration Is Assisting Federal University of Medical and Health Sciences, Kwale, in Several Ways

    Onyeme Says Oborevwori’s Administration Is Assisting Federal University of Medical and Health Sciences, Kwale, in Several Ways

    ​The Deputy Governor of Delta State, Sir Monday Onyeme, Ph.D., has said that the administration of Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori is rendering assistance to the Federal University of Medical and Health Sciences, Kwale, in several ways.

    ​He made the disclosure on Wednesday in Asaba when he received on courtesy call a delegation from the Federal Ministry of Health, led by the Director of Hospital Services, Dr. Bisola Adegoke.

    ​According to Sir Onyeme, “I want to assure you that the state government is willing to work with the Federal Government in ensuring that the university comes to stay.

    ​”Since the creation of the Federal University of Medical and Health Sciences, Kwale, there has been a lot of documentation, and infrastructural development has been going on; our government, led by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, is assisting the university in a lot of ways.

    ​”I want to assure you that the government will continue to assist Federal Government agencies, including the university, because it is of benefit to us as a people,” Sir Onyeme said.

    ​Earlier, Dr. Adegoke told the Deputy Governor and other top government functionaries who witnessed the event that the visit was to assess facilities at the Central Hospital, Kwale, on the directive of the Minister of Health, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, with a view to converting it into the Federal University of Medical and Health Sciences Teaching Hospital, Kwale.

    ​”The Federal University of Medical and Health Sciences, Kwale, is meant to train medical students, and for medical students to be properly trained, there is a need for a teaching hospital, so, the Minister of Health directed us to do an assessment of the Central Hospital to know what is on ground in terms of infrastructure, equipment, and the personnel which the Delta State government has proposed to cede as a teaching hospital for the Federal University of Medical and Health Sciences.”

  • Sachet Alcohol ban best solution to tackle  menace of underage addiction 

    Sachet Alcohol ban best solution to tackle  menace of underage addiction 

     

    By Deji Abdulwahab
    Abuja: Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, the Director-General, National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), has declared the ban on alcohol in small pack sizes as the best solution to tackle the menace of underage drinking.
    Adeyeye said this at a news conference in Abuja on Tuesday to mark the commencement of enforcement of the ban on sachet alcoholic drinks nationwide.
    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the enforcement would be carried out by the NAFDAC, National Orientation Agency (NOA) and the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC).
    The NAFDAC boss said restricting access to sachets and small volume bottles, which could be easily concealed, would limit children’s access to alcohol.
    According to her, alcohol is one of the most widely used substances of abuse among youths.
    Adeyeye said several studies showed a rapid increase in alcohol availability, production, importation and consumption across age groups in recent decades.
    She added that the availability and easy access to alcohol had been identified as a contributory factor to the increasing alcohol consumption among minors.
    Adeyeye recalled that in 2018, the Association of Food and Beverage and Tobacco Employers (AFBTE) and the Distillers and Blenders Association of Nigeria (DBAN), which are part of NAFDAC council, reported NAFDAC management to the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare.
    “In 2018, AFBTE and DBAN took NAFDAC to the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare that we were trying to reduce the concentration of alcohol in sachets. By that time, it was like 50 per cent in the sachet.
    “DBAN and AFBTE said that their businesses would be destroyed. That was 2018. The then Prof. Pate, the Minister of Health, gave these trade groups five years to reorganise their business.
    “On Feb.1, 2024, five years after, we started enforcement because our mandate is to regulate and control the manufacture, importation, exportation, distribution, advertisement, sale and use. Of seven regulated products, alcohol is part of food.
    “They resisted us and they took us to the Committee on NAFDAC at the National Assembly, who told us to suspend what we were doing in 2024. It went back and forth throughout 2024. We couldn’t do what we were supposed to do.
    “In December 2024, the then Minister, Prof. Pate,  said we should give an extra one year and we gave it,” she said.
    The NAFDAC director- general said after the agency started enforcement following the order by the Senate, the trade groups also sought for another extension.
    “However, in 2018, when this moratorium was given, we were also told to do a survey to even see the impact on our children. We did our survey in NAFDAC.
    “The results were not pleasing to the disciplinary group. They said they want an independent survey. So, we had an independent survey. It was conducted in 2021 during the pandemic,” she said.
    Adeyeye said the overall objective of the research was to undertake a national survey of consumers and retailers of alcohol, beverages and wines to determine the extent of alcohol abuse among the underage.
    She said about 2,000 respondents were sampled across the six geopolitical zones, adding that the result was damning to the country.
    Adeyeye said findings showed that 54.3 per cent of minors and underage obtained alcohol by themselves from various sources, while 49.9 per cent patronised retailers selling sachets and pet bottles.
    The NAFDAC boss, who said 50 per cent of children drink alcohol, said findings further suggest that minors and underage also access alcoholic drinks from friends and relatives, as well as from social guardians.
    “Of those who procure drinks for themselves, 47.2 per cent of minors and 48.8 per cent of underage procure drinks in sachets because it is easy to conceal.
    “Whether you are a good parent or a bad parent, it doesn’t really matter. These sachets are easy to conceal and that is what NAFDAC has banned.
    ‘The survey data revealed that 63.2 per cent of minors and 54 per cent of underage drink alcohol occasionally, while 44.3 per cent and 38.3 per cent of adults drink alcohol occasionally and daily respectively.
    “So, they even drink it more than adults because it is easy to conceal. Additionally, 9.3 per cent of minors and 25.2 per cent of underage children consume alcoholic beverages.
    “And 11.3 per cent of minors and 9.4 per cent of underage consume alcohol at least once a week. As young as nine years old in this survey consume alcohol,” she said.
    According to her, most minors underage  buy alcohol for themselves. It’s about N50 to buy a sachet of alcohol. Some people have been made rich but some children are losing their livelihoods and future.
    “Some children are potential patients for liver cirrhosis, kidney failure, mental instability.
    On the pattern of alcohol consumption and abuse by minors and underage, the survey findings revealed that about 11.7 per cent of underage children are ever engaged in binge drinking.
    “This is mostly reported in Gombe. In terms of the most use of alcohol, it is Lagos State and Rivers.”
    Adeyeye said NAFDAC expressed concern following its mandate aimed to ensure protection of public health, including children.
    Speaking on its impact on health and brain development, she said alcohol could damage the hippocampus, memory centre in the brain and prefrontal cortex leading to permanent issues with learning, memory and impulse control.
    According to her, underage drinking is linked to liver and kidney damage.Hypertension, disrupted hormone growth and increased cancer risk later in life.
    This, she said also increases risk of depression, anxiety and low self-esteem.
    “Youth who begins drinking before age 15, the minors and underage in our study are 41 per cent more likely to become dependent on alcohol. And this study also shows that they graduate to start taking cocaine and other narcotics.
    “It also has behavioural consequences as violence remains a major factor in youth suicides, homicides and motor vehicle crashes or accidents.
    “Risky behaviour is strongly linked to unprotected sexual activity, unwanted pregnancies and sexually transmitted diseases,” she said.
    According to her, it also contributes to academic problem because drinking often leads to lower grades, missed classes and impaired cognitive function.
    “In our country, it is responsible for banditry. It is responsible for kidnapping. You cannot be in your right mind and point a gun at somebody. It starts from alcohol and then goes on to hard drugs.
    “Because of all these, the Senate made its resolutions on Nov. 6, 2025, and were communicated to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) on December 1, 2025.
    “The resolutions urge NAFDAC not to grant further extension to the moratorium and to ensure immediate strict enforcement of the ban on such alcohol and alcohol in small bottles.
    “It urges the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare to support NAFDAC on the ban on such alcohol and alcohol in smaller volumes.
    “It urges the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare to release its national alcohol policy that includes prohibition of alcohol in sachets and small volume less than 200 mls.
    “It urges the National Orientation Agency and NAFDAC to collaborate and intensify nationwide sensitisation of dangers of alcohol in sachets and small volume bottles,” she said.
    Earlier, the Director, Corporate Affairs, FCCPC, Mr Ondaje Ijagwu, said the commission would subject offenders in the food and drug sector to the offences and penalties based on the extant laws.
    “So, by tomorrow, when we begin full enforcement, and which we must, we will not be asked questions as to why we are subjecting offenders to a certain kind of penalties and sanctions. Our sanctions are quite severe.
    “By the time we begin implementation, and which we are commencing immediately, Nigerians would know,” Ijagwu said.
    The Director-General of NOA, Malam Lanre Onilu, said the Federal Government, through NAFDAC, had banned the production and sale of alcohol in sachets and in PET or glass bottles below 200 millilitres, effective from Jan. 1, 2026.
    According to Onilu, this decision is a deliberate public health intervention aimed at reducing underage access to cheap, high-concentration alcohol and curbing the alarming pattern of harmful consumption across our communities.
    “This is why this collaboration is important. NAFDAC safeguards public health through regulation. FCCPC protects consumer rights and ensures responsible market practices.
    “The National Orientation Agency mobilises citizens for behavioural change and national consciousness. Together, we are aligning regulation, consumer protection and public enlightenment to ensure that this policy achieves its intended impact,” he said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
  • Senator Ahmed Wadada: The Man Whose Politics Speaks the Language of the People

    Senator Ahmed Wadada: The Man Whose Politics Speaks the Language of the People

    By Sam Israel JP

    In a political environment where many public office holders gradually lose touch with the people who once stood by them, Senator Ahmed Wadada Aliyu stands out as a refreshing exception. His political journey, social engagements, and religious commitments have combined to make him a practical reference point for anyone who desires to succeed in public service. Indeed, through years of consistency and humility, Senator Wadada has become a living dictionary for those who wish to understand the true meaning of people-centered leadership.

    From his earliest days as a pupil in primary school to his formative years as a student at Government Secondary School, Miango in Plateau State, Wadada cultivated relationships that have endured the test of time. Unlike many individuals who abandon their past once they rise to prominence, he has maintained strong connections with his classmates and friends. His rise in public life has not distanced him from those who knew him before power and influence came his way.

    This rare loyalty to old relationships speaks volumes about the kind of person he is. In a society where political success often creates barriers between leaders and their roots, Wadada has continued to nurture friendships that date back decades. It is this sense of loyalty and humility that has endeared him to many across generations.

    His professional journey also reflects the same spirit of connection and humanity. During his time working with the United Bank for Africa and later at Benue Cement Company in Gboko, Benue State, he remained deeply connected to colleagues and associates. Even within the demanding schedule of professional life, Wadada made it a habit to keep in touch with people he had worked with.

    Those who have known him over the years attest to his remarkable accessibility. If a friend or associate places a call and he is unable to pick it immediately, they can be certain that he will return the call. In an era where many politicians become unreachable once they attain power, this simple but powerful habit demonstrates his respect for people.

    This culture of accessibility has also defined his conduct in public office. During his tenure in the Federal House of Representatives and now as a distinguished member of the Senate, Senator Wadada has maintained an open-door policy that allows people from different walks of life to meet with him. Many who walk into his office burdened with concerns or challenges often leave with renewed hope and smiles on their faces.

    Such openness has earned him friends across the social spectrum. Senator Wadada is not only respected among the political elite but also deeply loved among ordinary citizens. He has built bridges between the very high and the very low in society, creating a rare network of goodwill that many politicians can only aspire to.

    This wide acceptance has given him a clear advantage over many political figures who struggle to maintain genuine connections with their constituencies. While some politicians find it difficult to visit their hometowns freely due to strained relationships with the people, Wadada moves comfortably among his people because he has never severed those ties.

    Beyond politics, Senator Wadada has also demonstrated a strong commitment to religious harmony and social cohesion. At a time when unity is needed more than ever, his efforts to promote interfaith understanding have been remarkable. The ongoing fasting period observed by both Muslims and Christians has provided yet another opportunity for him to demonstrate this commitment.

    He has organized several interfaith breaking-of-fast gatherings that bring together people from different religious backgrounds. These gatherings are not merely symbolic events but meaningful platforms for strengthening unity, peace, and mutual respect among communities. And as the season continues, these initiatives are still ongoing.

    Leadership, at its best, is about using opportunity and influence to uplift others. Senator Wadada has consistently demonstrated that when entrusted with power, he uses it for the good of the people. His actions reflect a leader who understands that public office is a responsibility, not a privilege.

    Perhaps this is why many observers believe that divine favor continues to open doors before him. When a leader dedicates his position to serving humanity, it often appears as though circumstances themselves align to support his journey. In Wadada’s case, his record of service speaks louder than mere political promises.

    As the 2027 governorship election in Nasarawa State gradually approaches, conversations across the state increasingly point toward one name—Senator Ahmed Wadada Aliyu. For many citizens, the question is no longer whether he is qualified, but when the opportunity will come for him to lead the state.

    The evidence of his preparedness is clearly visible in his HEARTS Agenda, a vision that directly addresses the needs and aspirations of the people. Unlike abstract political slogans, this agenda resonates deeply with citizens because it is rooted in their everyday realities.

    All indications suggest that Senator Wadada represents credibility, experience, and readiness. His long-standing relationships, accessible leadership style, commitment to unity, and genuine concern for the welfare of the people have positioned him as one of the most prepared candidates for the future leadership of Nasarawa State.

    If leadership is truly about understanding the hearts of the people and responding to their hopes, then Senator Ahmed Wadada Aliyu has already demonstrated that he possesses that rare ability. And as the political horizon of 2027 becomes clearer, many believe that the story unfolding before Nasarawa State is one of destiny, preparation, and a leader whose time may have truly come.

    Sam Israel is the Senior Special Assistant SSA on media to Senator Ahmed Wadada Aliyu.

  • Again, 3 senators dump PDP for APC

    Again, 3 senators dump PDP for APC

     

    By Kingsley Okoye
    Abuja:   Senators Amos Yohanna (PDP Adamawa), Abass Iya (PDP Adamawa) and Ikra Bilbis (PDP Zamfara) have defected from Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to All Progressives Congress (APC).

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the senators’ defection was announced in separate letters read by the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, at plenary on Wednesday.

    Yohanna, in his letter, said he was resigning from the PDP that sponsored his election to the senate and defecting to APC.

    He attributed the decision to what he called prolonged and unresolved internal divisions within PDP at national level.

    This, the senator said, had significantly impaired cohesion and effective functioning of the party.

    “The persistent crisis has created a structural fracture within the party, affecting its national leadership and operational stability.

    “I hereby formally notify the senate of my decision and my formal defection to the APC.

    “This communication is intended to ensure full compliance with constitutional requirements and to place the senate on proper notice of the circumstances surrounding my resignation from the PDP and defection to the APC,” he said.

    In his own letter, Iya said he was formally informing the senate of his decision to resign his membership of the PDP and officially defect to the APC with immediate effect.

    “This followed the persistent crisis within the national level.

    “The deepening of internal factions and the ongoing leadership tussles which resulted in multiple court cases have created uncertainty regarding the party’s stability and the possible prospect of the party in the forthcoming election.

    “This informed my decision to withdraw my membership of the party and to defect to the APC,” he said.

    To Bilbis, his decision to quit PDP and join APC was a difficult but necessary decision.

    This, he said, came after extensive and wide consultations with his political associates as well as key stakeholders within his constituency and beyond.

    “My primary allegiance remains to the good people of my senatorial district. I represent their collective aspiration for effective governance, and that is what is guiding this move.

    “My decision is predicated on prolonged internal crisis in my former party, the PDP, and the need for alignment with the centre and to continue to support the national agenda of President Bola Tinubu.

    “I formally request that you direct the Clerk of the Senate to reflect this change in the records of the senate that I am no longer a member of the PDP but now belong to the APC,” he said.

    In his remarks, Akpabio said that the current administration, before assumption of office, met a challenged economy, saying that the president had steadily brought reforms.

    He said that the decisions on oil subsidy removal and harmonisation of exchange rate for the country were already bringing in fund into the consolidated revenue.

    The senate president said that state governments were meeting their obligations because they were getting their funds in line with the constitution, adding that the sub-nationals were doing well.

    According to him, APC is putting Nigeria on a trajectory of growth, total reformation and rebirth.(NAN)

  • CASER Threatens Legal Action Against NIMASA Over FOI Breach

    By Jimoh Babatunde
    Abuja — The human rights group Citizens Advocacy for Social and Economic Rights (CASER) has escalated its fight for transparency, warning that it will take the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) to court over its refusal to respond to a Freedom of Information (FOI) request.
    The group, led by Barr. Frank Tietie, wrote to the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, after the Director-General of NIMASA, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, failed to provide information requested on February 20, 2026. The request sought records on protection of female staff, administrative postings, procurement processes, internal governance, and litigation involving Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG).
    “Take notice that unless NIMASA immediately complies with the FOI request within seven days of receipt of this letter, CASER will commence enforcement proceedings at the Federal High Court,” Barr. Tietie warned on Monday while addressing reporters in Abuja.
    Under the FOI Act, public institutions are required to respond within seven days either by providing the information or citing a statutory exemption. CASER said NIMASA has done neither, a failure the group described as “a clear breach of its statutory obligations and a flagrant disregard for transparency.”
    The rights group is demanding an Order of Mandamus compelling NIMASA to release the requested information and a declaration that the agency’s refusal violates the FOI Act. Additional court orders may follow to enforce transparency and accountability.
    Barr. Tietie urged the supervising minister, Dr. Oyetola, to direct NIMASA to comply with the law and avoid litigation that could further expose the agency to public scrutiny.
    CASER highlighted concerns over recent administrative actions at NIMASA, including protection of female staff from coercion or retaliation, adherence to public service rules in staff postings, abuse of administrative authority, and transparency in procurement and governance processes.
    The group also seeks records on NIMASA’s legal engagements with NLNG from 2023 to date, including legal opinions, judgments or settlement terms, and any financial liabilities incurred.