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Presidency Clashes with Peter Obi Over Democracy Concerns

Published

1 month ago

March 26, 2025

The Nigerian Presidency has strongly cautioned former Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate Peter Obi over his recent remarks on the state of democracy in Nigeria. The warning follows Obi’s statement at the 60th birthday colloquium of former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Chief Emeka Ihedioha, where he, alongside former President Olusegun Obasanjo, ex-Governor of Sokoto State Aminu Tambuwal, and Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese Matthew Kukah, criticized the nation’s democratic progress under President Bola Tinubu.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Obi’s Democracy Criticism

Obi likened Nigeria’s democratic journey to a collapsed building, arguing that while initial efforts since 1999 laid a foundation, subsequent administrations had dismantled any progress. “Everything has been knocked down. Nothing works,” he declared.

Presidency’s Response

Presidential aide Bayo Onanuga dismissed Obi’s assertions, accusing him of exaggeration and lacking logical foundation. In a social media post, Onanuga argued that democracy in Nigeria had strengthened over the past 26 years. He added that if democracy had truly collapsed, Obi would not have been able to make such statements publicly. Onanuga urged the former Anambra State governor to exercise restraint and avoid misleading the public.

Obidient Movement Reacts

In response, the Obidient Movement, a support group for Obi, condemned Onanuga’s remarks, warning that he would be held accountable if any harm befell their leader. Nana Kazaure, the movement’s Director of Strategic Communications, accused the Tinubu administration of silencing dissent and fostering dictatorship. She also criticized the government’s perceived inability to address Nigeria’s governance challenges.

Leaders and Clerics Weigh In

Former Senate President Adolphus Wabara and Methodist Archbishop Raphael Opoko supported Obi’s stance, arguing that Nigeria no longer practices true democracy. Wabara lamented that the country’s political system had been corrupted, calling for constitutional reforms to reduce presidential powers. Archbishop Opoko described Nigeria’s governance as a “selectocracy,” where decisions favor a privileged few rather than the genera

gist

Lightning Strikes Herdsman, Cows to Death in Kaduna

Published

4 weeks ago

March 31, 2025

NivoNews

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.

gist

Nollywood Star Mercy Aigbe Addresses Criticism Over Marriage to Kazim Adeoti

Published

4 weeks ago

March 29, 2025

NivoNews

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.

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West African Tax Institutes Under Nigerian Leadership for the Next Two Years

Published

4 weeks ago

March 29, 2025

NivoNews

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.