News

I was offered N5bn bribe to impeach Fubara – Rivers Chief of Staff

by

  Edison Ehie, the Chief of Staff to suspended Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has alleged that he was offered N5 billion to coordinate the impeachment of his principal. Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, Ehie claimed he has evidence of the bribe offer stored on his phone. “I can also open my phone to show you, in the beginning of October 2023, when they approached me with a bribe of N5 billion. It is here in my phone, “It was for impeachment. It’s here. I have it and I have printed it and distributed it, in case, in their evil imagination, they decide to attack me. I already have a son and a brother,” he said. Ehie said the offer was made while he was serving as the majority leader of the Rivers State House of Assembly. The Chief of Staff also denied claims that he orchestrated the October 30, 2023, bombing of the Rivers Assembly complex on Fubara’s orders. The allegation was made by a former Head of Service in the state, George Nwaeke, during a press conference last Friday. Nwaeke had alleged that he witnessed a bag of money being handed over to Ehie at the Government House to execute the operation, though he admitted he did not know the amount inside. Dismissing the claims as false and politically motivated, Ehie said, “It is very important to clarify that I had no hand and was not part of the burning down of the Rivers State House of Assembly. “Like everyone else, I woke up in the early hours of 30th of October 2023 to hear of the burning down of the Rivers State House of Assembly.” Ehie stated that he had instructed his lawyers to file a lawsuit against Nwaeke for criminal libel. “I will not join issues completely with Mr. George Nwaeke because I have already instructed my lawyers to file an issue of criminal libel against him, and I hope he is very prepared to substantiate his claims and his allegations,” he said. He further alleged that Nwaeke had sought financial assistance from him on the same day he resigned as head of service. Rivers State has been in turmoil since Fubara’s fallout with his predecessor and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Nyesom Wike. On March 18, President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in the state and suspended both the governor and his deputy. Subsequently, on March 26, the sole administrator of Rivers State, Ibok-Ete Ibas, suspended all political officeholders in the state. Punch

FG To Shut Lagos’ Independence Bridge For Two Months

by

  The Federal Government has announced the closure of the Independence Bridge (Marina bound) starting April 1 for essential maintenance and rehabilitation works. The Federal Controller of Works, Lagos, Mrs Olukorede Kesha, made this known in a statement on Monday in Lagos. She explained that the bridge would remain closed until the end of May 2025. She said, “The closure will affect traffic traveling from Ahmadu Bello Way and Adeola Odeku towards Marina, Eko Bridge, and Onikan by Zone 2. “Kesha advised motorists to plan their journeys accordingly and use alternative routes to avoid traffic congestion during the repair period.” She apologized for any inconvenience the closure might cause and thanked the public for their understanding and cooperation as the government worked to ensure the safety and stability of the road infrastructure.  

Aare Olayinka Segelu Condoles Ex-Oyo First Lady, Florence Ajimobi Over Daughter’s Demise

by

  A governorship aspirant for the 2027 elections in Oyo State, Aare Olayinka Segelu, has extended his heartfelt condolences to the former first lady of the state, Mrs Florence Ajimobi, over the death of her daughter, Bisola Kola-Daisi. Bisola Kola-Daisi, the eldest child of the late former Governor of Oyo State, Abiola Ajimobi, died at the age of 42. The mother of three reportedly died on Thursday morning in the United Kingdom (UK) after a brief illness. She served as a Special Adviser to the Minister of Budget and Planning, Senator Atiku Bagudu, former governor of Kebbi State. In a statement issued and personally signed by him, Aare Segelu, a Germany-based business tycoon and ICT consultant, expressed shock over the death of the young philanthropist who was a prominent figure in Nigeria’s luxury retail scene. “It is with profound sorrow that I extend my deepest condolences to Her Excellency, Chief Mrs. Florence Ajimobi, on the heartbreaking loss of her beloved daughter, Abisola Ajimobi. “Abisola’s radiant spirit and warmth touched the lives of many, and her legacy will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew her. During this incredibly difficult time, my thoughts and prayers are with the Ajimobi and Chief Kola Daisi families. May you find solace in the cherished memories you shared and strength in the support of friends and loved ones. “As we mourn this tragic loss, let us honour Abisola’s life and the joy she brought to our community. “With heartfelt sympathy, may God comfort the children she left behind. I share in your moment of grief,” Segelu, a stalwart of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), said.

I didn’t Collect Money From Sanwo-Olu For 2023 Election Campaign – Atiku

by

  Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar says he never collected any money from Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State for his 2023 election campaign. This is contained in a statement issued by the Atiku Media Office in Abuja on Thursday. The Media Aide to Atiku, Paul Ibe, who issued the statement, denied the reports making the rounds that Sanwo-Olu gave money to the former vice-president for his 2023 presidential election campaign. Atiku was the Peoples Democratic Party presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections. Ibe, in the statement, described the insinuations as a lie and kindergarten propaganda. He said that the report claimed that Sanwo-Olu made money purportedly belonging to Lagos State available to Atiku. The media aide stated that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission was also credited with investigating the matter. Ibe described the report as ‘a blatant lie from the pit of hell; a contrived political hogwash and a futile campaign of calumny aimed at advancing a political interest against Abubakar’. He said that Atiku did not know Sanwo-Olu and had never met him before. “How is it possible for an Atiku who did not know and had no connection with Sanwo-Olu to have a transaction with him involving the exchange of money, let alone during the presidential election of 2023 in which his boss was a contestant? To what end would that be? he queried. Ibe advised the EFCC to make public the outcome of its alleged investigation, since it had been dragged into it. He called for an immediate halt to what he described as a voyage of misadventure and a campaign of calumny against the person and reputation of Atiku. NAN

Aare Olayinka Segelu Hosts Oyo PDP Stakeholders To Iftar, Preaches Unity

by

  Aare Hon Olayinka Segelu, a Germany-based Ibadan-born businessman and politician of high repute has called on the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) political stakeholders in Oyo State to give room for unity of purpose. Hon. Segelu, a philanthropist and former Political Appointee in the National Assembly, the Aare Akinrogun of Igbo-Elerinland while addressing journalists shortly after an Iftar program organized for the Peoples Democratic Party Muslim stakeholders in Lagelu Local Government, held at his residence in Monatan Axis of Ibadan, congratulated the Muslim Ummah on the peaceful ongoing of the of Ramadan fasting for the year 1446 AH. Aare Olayinka, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of YSEG Hotels and Suites Ibadan, noted that Ramadan fast is one of the 5 pillars of Islam which symbolizes a time of spiritual renewal, self-discipline, charity, and acts of kindness towards humanity. Aare Olayinka Segelu, a gubernatorial aspirant under the umbrella of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State described the holy month as a period for deep sober reflection, patience and dedicated community service. In his words, “We thank God that the fast is gradually coming to an end, today we are hosting our Muslim faithful in our party PDP to an ifar so we can break the fasting together and have time to discuss on way forward on my ambition.” “These people are here today not because they don’t have money to break their fast in their respective homes but because of the love they have for me and their commitments towards the successful achievement of my ambition. “As we all know, I’m a converted Muslim and a practicing one at that, I have been trying my best since all these years by organizing an Iftar during the month of Ramadan for our Muslim brothers and sisters, I do this every Wednesday of the Ramadan but today will be the grand finale of the program for this year’s Ramadan period and I really love the atmosphere because it gives us the opportunity to speak out our minds and shares some ideas that will help us to move ahead on our journey. “As a bonafide member of the People’s Democratic Party in the state, I want to call on our political stakeholders across the state to give room for unity of purpose, we should embrace a developmental politics and eschew politics of bitterness. “Unity of purpose will give us a sellable candidate that will sustain the developmental process we are currently enjoying in Oyo State under Engr Seyi Makinde led administration. “Governor Makinde need a young and vibrant successor, a personality that will give room for sustainability of his achievements, all his projects must be well guided and sustained, we need someone that can leverage on Governor Makinde’s laudable achievements,” Olayinka said. Speaking on behalf of the attendees, Honorable Tawakalitu Omolara Alamu, Counselor of Ward 14, Lagelu Local Government and Mr Shina Akande popularly known as “Shinafolly” lauded Hon Olayinka Segelu for the Iftar program. Hon. Tawakalitu urged Olayinka Segelu to continue pursuing his political ambitions without looking back, stressing that politics is a game of numbers and permutations. “Hon. Olayinka Segelu is a great grassroot politician and we are ready to support him anyday anytime to achieve his political ambitions.” Hon Tawakalitu said. Punch

Natasha Apologises To Ezekwesili Over Clash With Nwaebonyi

by

  Embattled Kogi Central senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has apologised to a former Minister of Education, Oby Ezekwesili, over her clash with the senator representing Ebonyi North, Onyekachi Nwaebonyi. PUNCH Online reports that Ezekwesili and Nwaebonyi clashed on Tuesday at the hearing of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions on a fresh petition from Akpoti-Uduaghan against Senate President Godswill Akpabio. The Kogi lawmaker has repeatedly accused Akpabio of intimidating, maligning and sexually harassing her. On Tuesday, Ezekwesili joined Abiola Akiode, counsel for Akpoti-Uduaghan, and the petitioner, Zubairu Yakubu, at the senate committee hearing as a witness in the case. Nwaebonyi, who appeared as a witness for Akpabio, repeatedly interrupted the former minister during the hearing. Ezekwesili then asked the Senate Deputy Chief Whip to “compose himself and stop making noise” and said, “please, will you shut up?”. Following the comments, Nwaebonyi lashed out at the former minister. Responding, Nwaebonyi said, “You’re a fool. What do you mean? Why are you talking to me like that? I will not take it. You’re an insult to womanhood. People like you cannot be here.” Reacting to the clash in an X post on Wednesday, Akpoti-Uduaghan apologised to Ezekwesili over the insults hurled at her by the Imo lawmaker. The Kogi senator also commended the former minister for her unwavering commitment to good governance, education and democracy. She wrote, “Ma’am, I apologise for the insults. Know you took them for me… for us … as a mother and as a leader. Know that you are a true icon of integrity, courage, and visionary leadership. “Your unwavering commitment to good governance, education and democracy continues to inspire generations. “A champion of accountability… Nigerians appreciate you. I celebrate your brilliance, resilience and selfless service. You are a hero.” Punch

FG Begins Payment Of N77,000 New Monthly Allowance To NYSC Members

by

  The Federal Government has commenced the payment of the N77,000 new monthly allowance to members of the National Youth Service Corps, PUNCH Online has gathered. This follows the promise made by the Director General of the National Youth Service Corps, Brigadier General Olakunle Nafiu, that the new monthly allowance will be implemented starting in March 2025. The Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, assured that the backlog of the new monthly allowance will also be paid The PUNCH Online gathered that several corps members have started receiving alerts of the new allowance on Wednesday. An NYSC member serving in Lagos, identified simply as Chinedu, expressed joy over the increase, saying, “I just checked my account balance, and I saw N77,000 credited from the Federal Government. This is a huge relief.” “Yes, corps members have started receiving their new allowance in line with the newly approved minimum wage,” publisher of Corpers Diary (@corpersdiary_ng) an online community for corps members, Jeremiah Olatinwo, also confirmed. In September 2024, the Federal Government announced a new allowance for NYSC members better known as corpers much to the excitement of the participants of the youth scheme. The government said the increment was in line with the National Minimum Wage (Amendment) Act 2024. The implementation of the new allowance suffered several setbacks despite repeated assurances from the government. Punch

I Don’t Regret Insulting Ezekwesili At Senate Hearing – Nwaebonyi

by

  The senator representing Ebonyi North Senatorial District, Onyekachi Nwaebonyi, has defended his clash with former Minister of Education, Oby Ezekwesili, during a Senate hearing on Tuesday. The clash occurred during a Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions hearing on a fresh petition submitted by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan against Senate President Godswill Akpabio. Ezekwesili was present at the hearing alongside Abiola Akiyode-Afolabi, counsel to Akpoti-Uduaghan, and the chief petitioner from Kogi Central, Zubairu Yakubu. Trouble started when the petitioner urged the Chairman of the Committee, Neda Imasuen, to step down in the case following the ‘controversial’ manner in which he had so far handled the alleged sexual harassment allegation against Akpabio. He further alleged that some committee members had pre-existing ties to Akpabio, which he said compromised their ability to be neutral. His remarks angered some lawmakers, who accused him of attempting to undermine the committee’s credibility. Ezekwesili also came under fire for what they saw as her insistence on forcing herself into the proceedings. However, Ezekwesili insisted on being heard out. She said, “I asked to be put on oath as a witness. I am a citizen of Nigeria.” This led to a heated argument with Nwaebonyi, who lashed out at her, saying, “You’re a fool. What do you mean? Why are you talking to me like that? I will not take it. You’re an insult to womanhood. People like you cannot be here.” Ezekwesili called him a “hooligan,” further escalating the altercation. The verbal battle momentarily disrupted the hearing before order was restored. During the proceedings, tensions flared when Nwaebonyi was heard hurling derogatory remarks at Ezekwesili, referring to her as an “insult to womanhood” and a “hooligan.” However, in an interview with Channels Television on Tuesday evening, Nwaebonyi claimed that Ezekwesili had instigated the confrontation by calling him a hooligan and telling him to “shut up” despite his position as a senator. “It started when she was asked to take an oath because she said she was a witness. She refused, saying she couldn’t be placed under oath. As I was addressing the presiding officer, she turned to me and said, ‘Will you shut up your mouth? You are a hooligan,’” Nwaebonyi said. He insisted that his response was justified, adding that he had no regrets about the incident. He said, “For a mother like you, a grandmother of your age, a former minister of the Federal Republic to tell a sitting senator to shut up and call him a hooligan, that’s unacceptable.” Asked whether he regretted the altercation, Nwaebonyi was resolute: “How can I regret the scenario? I gave it to her. Is it fair for her to address me that way? As a former minister and a grandmother, ask her first.” Punch

Judge Steps Down From Natasha’s Case After Akpabio’s Petition

by

  Justice Obiora Egwuatu of the Federal High Court in Abuja has stepped down from a case involving suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. Justice Egwuatu was assigned to hear the suit, but on Tuesday, he announced that he would no longer handle the matter. He made this decision after Senate President Godswill Akpabio wrote a petition questioning his impartiality. Although the case was scheduled for hearing, when the court clerk called it up, the judge ruled that he was stepping aside. He said he would return the case file to the Chief Judge, who would assign it to another judge. On March 4, Justice Egwuatu issued an interim order stopping the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions from proceeding with disciplinary actions against Akpoti-Uduaghan. She was accused of violating Senate rules. The judge ruled that the disciplinary process should not continue until the case was decided. He also gave the defendants 72 hours to explain why the court should not stop them from investigating the senator without following the rules laid out in the 1999 Constitution, the Senate Standing Order 2023, and the Legislative Houses (Powers and Privileges) Act. Justice Egwuatu allowed the senator to serve legal documents on the defendants using substituted means. The court ordered that the documents be given to the Clerk of the National Assembly or pasted at the National Assembly premises. They were also to be published in two national newspapers. The interim order came after the senator filed an urgent application. However, despite the court’s ruling, the Senate Committee still held its meeting and suspended her for six months. Later, after the defendants applied, Justice Egwuatu amended his earlier order. He removed the part that prevented the Senate from taking any action while the case was ongoing. Meanwhile, Akpabio’s legal team, led by Kehinde Ogunwumiju, questioned the court’s authority to interfere in Senate affairs. Punch

I Won’t Be Forced Into Submission, Natasha Denies Apology Claims

by

  Suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, has denied reports that she apologised to the Senate over the issue that led to her suspension. Akpoti-Uduaghan in a statement on Monday, described the claims as “false and misleading,” insisting that she still stands by her position. “The reports suggesting that I have apologized to the Senate and retracted my position are completely untrue. I stand firmly by my words and actions and have not issued any apology to the Senate or anyone regarding this matter,” she said. She criticised those spreading the false reports, accusing them of trying to twist the truth and mislead the public. The senator, who was suspended after a disagreement with Senate leadership, said she remains committed to defending the rights of her people. She also claimed that some individuals were trying to manipulate public opinion with fake statements. “I urge the public to disregard these rumours and publications as they do not represent my position. My commitment remains to truth, justice, and the people I represent.” She also expressed concern over what she called a planned effort to silence her voice in the National Assembly. She stated, “This is not just about me; it is about the integrity of our democracy. I will not be intimidated or forced into submission through false narratives.” She urged Nigerians to be careful of misinformation, adding that any official statement from her would come only from her verified channels. “I appreciate the support and solidarity of my people. Rest assured, I will continue to fight for what is right and just.” There have been calls for Akpoti-Uduaghan to be recalled following her suspension from the senate. The push to recall her followed her suspension from the Senate, after a heated dispute with the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, over seating arrangements. She also accused Akpabio of sexual harassment and has since taken her case before local and foreign media and the United Nations Inter-Parliamentary Union. Earlier, the Independent National Electoral Commission disclosed that it had received the petition seeking the recall process of Akpoti-Uduaghan as Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The Secretary to the commission, Rose Oriaran-Anthony, received the petition on Monday. Punch

Stay Informed. Stay Ahead

Get breaking news and top stories delivered to your inbox every morning.

You have been successfully Subscribed! Ops! Something went wrong, please try again.

Get the Morning Briefing

Tops stories from Nigeria delivered free to your inbox every day.

You have been successfully Subscribed! Ops! Something went wrong, please try again.

Your No 1 Trusted News Source 

Email info@citybuzz.com 

Web Citybuzznews.com

LEGAL

SECTIONS

©Copyright Citybuzz News. All rights reserved.