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Alban Nwapa Calls On Tinubu To Intervene And Caution Wike Over Rivers Crisis
Renowned Nigerian musician, Dr. Alban Unoma Nwapa, has condemned President Bola Tinubu’s decision to impose a state of emergency in Rivers State, arguing that the president should have intervened by calling the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, to order instead.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
The political turmoil in Rivers State escalated to the point where Tinubu declared a state of emergency, resulting in the suspension of Governor Sim Fubara for six months. Additionally, the deputy governor and all members of the Rivers State House of Assembly were suspended. This drastic measure stemmed from the ongoing power struggle between Wike and Fubara.
The crisis had earlier led to the formation of a parallel state assembly, with 27 lawmakers, led by Martins Amaewhule, initially claiming to have defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). However, the Supreme Court later ruled for their reinstatement, directing Governor Fubara to present the 2025 budget to the House.
Despite the ruling, Fubara faced obstruction from Amaewhule’s faction when attempting to present the budget at the state assembly complex.
Nwapa’s Reaction
Addressing journalists in Abuja, Nwapa expressed strong disapproval of Tinubu’s decision, emphasizing that the president lacks the constitutional authority to suspend a democratically elected governor and his deputy.
“And to think that Fubara was elected by the people, while Wike, who holds no electoral mandate, continues to wield influence unchecked—this is unacceptable,” Nwapa stated. “What’s even more troubling is that Wike has not been held accountable for his role in this crisis.”
Nwapa criticized the government for sidelining Wike in discussions about the crisis. “Neither the Supreme Court, the Senate, nor the President has addressed Wike’s involvement in this situation. That, to me, is truly disheartening.”
He further argued that declaring a state of emergency in Rivers State has severely undermined its democratic structure. “Suspending both the governor and his deputy, despite lacking the constitutional power to do so, is a major setback for democracy,” he asserted. “Shutting down the State House of Assembly for six months is absurd and wasteful.”
Financial and Democratic Implications
Nwapa also raised concerns about the financial burden associated with the decision. “A new administrator will be appointed, along with a full team of staff and security personnel, all of whom will require salaries. Nearly 10,000 soldiers have been deployed for special duties in Rivers, which will incur significant costs—all funded by taxpayers.”
He questioned the rationale behind the emergency declaration, arguing that simply calling Wike to order would have been a more effective and less costly solution. “Beyond the financial implications, the real tragedy is the damage done to the democratic institutions in Rivers State. Recovering from this setback will take years.”
Concerns About Nigeria’s Democratic Future
Nwapa warned that Tinubu’s actions could set a dangerous precedent for Nigerian democracy. “This move suggests that any governor could be arbitrarily removed at any time, solely at the president’s discretion. Is this the kind of country we want to live in?”
He also criticized the National Assembly’s role in approving the state of emergency, particularly the use of voice voting to determine a two-thirds majority. “This is nothing short of daylight robbery. How do you determine such a critical decision based on voice votes? This is madness.”
Nwapa’s remarks highlight growing concerns over the federal government’s handling of the Rivers State crisis and its broader implications for democratic governance in Nigeria.
A Fulani herdsman and his 12 cows were tragically killed by a lightning strike in Kaura, Southern Kaduna. The incident occurred around 4:30 pm on Sunday in Matuak Giwa, Bondon District, Moro’a Chiefdom, in Kaura Local Government Area.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
According to the Village Head of Matuak Giwa, Simon Ayuba, the herdsman was seeking shelter from the rain with his cattle when the fatal lightning strike occurred, killing both the herder and his cows instantly.
Mallam Tanko Isiyaka, the Ardo of Bondon District, confirmed that the deceased herdsman hailed from Bauchi State, and described the incident as a shocking and tragic event for the local community.
This unfortunate event has left the community in a state of mourning as the loss of both the herder and the valuable cattle has deeply affected the residents.
In a separate matter, human rights lawyer Malcolm Omirhobo raised concerns regarding the rights of hunters from the North to operate in other states, particularly after the reported killing of Northern hunters in Edo State. Omirhobo questioned whether the hunters had the necessary licenses and if they adhered to the legal requirements for hunting in different states. He also pointed out the types of weapons they carried and their legal implications.
Nollywood actress and filmmaker, Mercy Aigbe Adeoti, has candidly expressed her love for marriage and having a partner, despite public criticism. In a recent interview with fellow actress Bimpe Akintunde, Aigbe shared her thoughts on her marriage to Kazim Adeoti, revealing that she never envisioned herself as a second wife.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
Speaking about the negative comments surrounding her marital choice, Aigbe questioned why critics focus on her personal life while ignoring their own challenges. She firmly stated that people tend to discuss others when they are notable or famous.
Aigbe also disclosed that her family initially opposed her decision to remarry due to her age, but she remained resolute, knowing what she wanted for her life. She emphasized that while others might question her choices, she remains content with her decision to be with Kazim Adeoti.
“I love love, actually. People ask me why I wanted to get married at nearly 50 years old, but everyone knows what they want. I love having a crown (husband) on my head and being married,” she said.
Reflecting on her journey, Aigbe acknowledged that her life took unexpected turns. She pointed out that if she had stayed with her baby’s father, she might not have gained the recognition she has today. “When I was young, I never thought my life would turn out this way,” she admitted.
Mercy Aigbe’s remarks come amid ongoing public discourse about her relationship, highlighting her determination to live life on her terms while embracing love and partnership.
Nigeria has officially assumed leadership of the West African Union of Tax Institutes (WAUTI) for the next two years, following the election of Mr. Samuel Agbeluyi, President of the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN), as the President of the Union. This significant development took place during the 11th Annual General Meeting of WAUTI held on February 27, 2025, in Accra, Ghana.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
WAUTI, which comprises National Tax Institutes/Associations from ECOWAS member states, is committed to enhancing tax professionalism, improving tax compliance, and streamlining tax administration within the region. With Nigeria at the helm, WAUTI aims to further its vision of harmonizing tax practices across West Africa, fostering a transparent and equitable taxation system that boosts economic growth and compliance.
In his acceptance speech, Agbeluyi expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to lead the organization, vowing to collaborate closely with fellow executives and stakeholders to advance the Union’s objectives. He highlighted his commitment to working on regional partnerships that will support professionalism in the tax systems of WAUTI’s member states.
Agbeluyi’s vast experience, which includes serving as the Honorary Treasurer and 2nd Vice President of CITN, has positioned him well for this new role. He is also a distinguished member of various prestigious bodies, such as the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), and has earned numerous accolades in the field of taxation.
In addition to Agbeluyi’s election, other members of WAUTI’s Executive for the 2025-2027 tenure were also selected, including the re-election of Mr. Innocent Ohagwa, CITN’s current Vice President, as the Honorary Treasurer. This marks the beginning of a new era of regional cooperation in tax administration under Nigerian leadership.
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