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Opposition Lawmakers Demand Swift Economic and Political Reforms
ABUJA — Nigeria’s House of Representatives minority caucus has called for urgent reforms to address the country’s growing economic hardship and political instability, warning that failure to act quickly could worsen the crisis.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
The caucus, made up of opposition lawmakers, issued the call after a closed-door meeting in Abuja on Thursday. Members said Nigerians are facing increasing poverty, insecurity, and unemployment, and argued that reforms are needed to restore public confidence in government.
Minority Leader Kingsley Chinda said the caucus is “deeply concerned” about the rising cost of living and the slow pace of policy implementation. He urged the federal government to take “bold and immediate steps” to stabilize the economy, strengthen democratic institutions, and protect citizens’ welfare.
“We cannot continue to pretend that all is well,” Chinda said. “Nigerians are going through one of the toughest times in recent history. It is our duty as representatives of the people to demand urgent and concrete reforms that will bring relief and hope.”
The lawmakers specifically called for reforms in fiscal policy, electoral transparency, and security management. They criticized what they described as government’s “weak response” to inflation, food shortages, and the falling value of the naira.
The caucus also said reforms must go beyond economic measures. Members argued that Nigeria’s political system needs stronger accountability and transparency, especially as the country prepares for future elections.
“Our democracy can only survive if institutions are credible and people trust the process,” Chinda added. “We want reforms that guarantee free and fair elections, respect for the rule of law, and protection of rights.”
Nigeria has been battling double-digit inflation for more than a year, with food prices hitting record highs. The removal of fuel subsidies earlier this year triggered further increases in transport and energy costs, sparking protests in several cities.
The minority caucus said it supports subsidy removal in principle but faulted the government for not providing enough safety nets to protect ordinary citizens. Lawmakers called for urgent measures such as wage adjustments, social welfare programs, and investment in local production to reduce reliance on imports.
On security, the caucus said reforms are needed to improve coordination between the military, police, and local communities. They urged the federal government to review its counterterrorism strategy and give states more resources to tackle crime and insurgency.
Political analysts say the caucus’s demands reflect growing public frustration. “This is a strong message from the opposition, but it also speaks to what many Nigerians are feeling,” said Dr. Amina Yusuf, a political scientist at the University of Abuja. “If government does not act, the gap between leaders and citizens will continue to widen.”
The ruling party has not yet responded to the caucus’s statement, but government officials have defended recent policies as necessary for long-term stability. President Bola Tinubu has repeatedly said his administration is committed to reforms that will eventually boost growth and attract investment.
Still, the opposition argues that Nigerians cannot wait indefinitely. “Reforms must be felt by the people, not just discussed in policy papers,” Chinda said. “This is about the survival of our economy and the future of our democracy.”
The caucus said it will continue to push for legislative oversight and will work with civil society to demand accountability. Lawmakers also pledged to support bills and motions that promote reforms, warning that delay would only deepen hardship.
With inflation rising, unemployment high, and security challenges ongoing, the minority caucus insists that urgent reforms are no longer optional. The group said Nigeria’s stability depends on government action in the coming months.
The Deputy Director-General of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) Presidential Campaign Council, Dino Melaye, has pledged that an administration led by the party’s presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, would not interfere in the selection of the Senate President or Speaker of the House of Representatives if elected.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
Melaye made the declaration during an appearance on Arise Television, where he said the ADC would allow lawmakers to elect their leaders independently.
He maintained that the party was committed to democratic principles and an independent National Assembly.
“To start with, an Atiku presidency will not determine who is going to be the Senate president, the president of the Senate, or the Speaker of the House of Representatives.
“Atiku is a Democrat. ADC is a very democratic political party. So we are going to allow the people to elect their leaders,” he said.
Melaye argued that allowing lawmakers to choose their leaders would promote legislative independence and strengthen the National Assembly’s oversight of the executive arm of government.
He said an independent legislature would be better positioned to scrutinise government activities and hold the executive accountable.
“And I told you that wherever you have the members electing their leaders, there is some modicum of independence.
“So to start with, the ADC will make sure that the National Assembly is truly independent, and if the National Assembly is truly independent, that will drive their oversight functions over the Executive,” he said.
Speaking on how government spending would be monitored, the ADC campaign official said relevant National Assembly committees would be empowered to question government officials and examine public expenditure.
He specifically mentioned the Committees on Establishment, Finance, and Budget and Planning as possible channels for investigating government spending and ensuring accountability.
“The Committee on Establishment is responsible for questioning this type of spenders because they have direct oversight function over the State House. The committee on finance is there. The committee on budget and planning is there,” Melaye said.
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Near-Death Experience: Cubana Chief Priest Speaks Out After Surviving Terrifying Flight Incident.
Nigerian socialite and nightlife promoter Paschal Okechukwu, popularly known as Cubana Chief Priest, has expressed gratitude to God after surviving a frightening experience during a recent flight.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
The businessman disclosed that he encountered the worst air turbulence he had ever experienced while travelling by plane.
In a post shared on his Instagram Story, Cubana Chief Priest revealed that the aircraft shook violently, leaving him terrified and fearing that he might not survive the journey.
He explained that the experience was so disturbing that he thought his life was about to end.
The socialite also admitted that the incident left him shaken, as he struggled to overcome the fear he experienced while the aircraft battled the turbulence.
He said: “Experienced the craziest turbulence ever in my life, I still can’t feel my heart I thought it was over, Thank God for journey mercies.”
In another development, Cubana Chief Priest has called on President Bola Tinubu to sack the Minister of Works, David Umahi.
The socialite described Umahi as one of the worst ministers the South-East had produced, arguing that the region had little to show for having one of its own in charge of the Ministry of Works.
He also criticised another minister from Imo State, whom he described as the worst minister the region had ever had.
According to Chief Priest, the ministers have failed to create visible opportunities for the Igbo people despite occupying important positions in the Federal Government.
Tanzania’s national team, the Taifa Stars, are expected to arrive in Uyo on Sunday as they step up preparations for their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying encounter against Nigeria’s Super Eagles.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
According to The Citizen, the early arrival will give head coach Miguel Gamondi sufficient time to prepare his players for the Matchday Three fixture scheduled to take place at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium.
Gamondi has selected a 24-man squad for the double-header against Nigeria. Tanzanian Premier League champions Yanga FC and Azam FC have the highest representation, with five players each.
Kagera Sugar and Singida Black Stars have one player apiece in the squad.
The foreign-based players include Novatus Miroshi of Turkish Super Lig club Goztepe, Cyprian Kachewele of Ukrainian side Kryvbas and Bernard Kamongo, who plays for Major League Soccer outfit FC Dallas.
The Taifa Stars will be seeking their first victory in the qualifying campaign after failing to win either of their opening two matches.
Tanzania began their campaign with a 2-0 defeat to Guinea-Bissau before playing out a 1-1 draw against Madagascar in their second fixture.
Nigeria will host the first leg in Uyo on Friday, November 13, before both countries meet again in Dar es Salaam for the return fixture on Tuesday, November 17.
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