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  • Why FG hasn’t commenced direct allocation to LGs – ALGON

    Why FG hasn’t commenced direct allocation to LGs – ALGON

    ABUJA: The Federal Government has not commenced direct allocation to Local Government Areas (LGAs) due to ongoing processes.

    According to Hon. Odunayo Alegbere, Chairman of the ALGON Board of Trustees, local governments have been instructed to open accounts with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) for seamless implementation of direct allocation.

    Although the process is not yet complete, Alegbere commended the Federal government for the progress made so far, citing the Supreme Court’s judgment on financial autonomy for local governments.

    He said the Federal government is working towards implementing this judgment, which includes administrative and political autonomy for LGAs.

    Alegbere assured that direct allocation will help stamp out poverty at the grassroots level, as local governments will have more control over their finances and projects.

    He decried the current system, where states conduct local government elections, in which it is often more of a selection process than a true election and assured that the challenge would be soon be addressed with ongoing constitution amendment by the National Assembly.

    “We are happy with the president, and I’m proud of the fact that we have not gotten to where we want to go, but we are making steady progress,” Alegbere said.

    Eradicating Poverty

    Alegbere emphasized that direct allocation will help stamp out poverty at the grassroots level, as local governments will have more control over their finances and projects.

    “If you look at the grassroots level, abject poverty is tremendous, but with this new arrangement, we are sure that we will erase and stamp out poverty at the grassroots level,” he said.

    Free and Fair Elections

    Alegbere noted that the current system, where states conduct local government elections, is often more of a selection process than a true election.

    “We are working towards ensuring that the State Independent Electoral Commission (SIEC) is removed from the constitution, and a national body is established to conduct local government elections,” he said.

    Insecurity

    Alegbere, who attributed Nigeria’s insecurity challenges to the failure of the local government system, suggested that the government should incorporate traditional institutions into the local government system, allowing them to play a key role in solving security challenges. He believes that a properly functioning local government system is essential to addressing Nigeria’s security issues.

    To address insecurity in the country, Alegbere, he said, “Unless and until we go back and look at the older system, it will be very difficult to address.”

    Traditional Institutions

    ALGON BOT Chairman suggested that the government should incorporate traditional institutions into the local government system, allowing them to play a key role in solving security challenges.

    Rivers State Crisis

    On the Rivers crisis, Alegbere commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for declaring a state of emergency in Rivers State, which he said has helped to douse tension and prevent a civil war.

    On the claim of ALGON Secretary position by a fractional group,
    Alegbere warned that anyone claiming to be the Secretary-General of ALGON is an impostor, as the association has a clear leadership structure.

    Alegbere expressed optimism that the Federal government will continue to make progress in implementing the Supreme Court’s judgment and strengthening the local government system.

    “We are happy, as we are the umbrella body of 774 Local Government Nigeria,” he said.

    “We want to assure Mr. President that we are going to continue to cooperate with him, because he has actually demonstrated leadership by ensuring that the local government system is made functional at this time,” he added.

  • Rivers Crisis: Anger as NASS approves emergency rule with voice vote

    Rivers Crisis: Anger as NASS approves emergency rule with voice vote

    The two chambers of the National Assembly, yesterday, approved President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State which resulted in the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy and other elected officials for six months, and the appointment of a sole administrator by a voice vote.

    This is contrary to Section 305(4) of the 1999 Constitution, as amended, which requires a resolution of the National Assembly supported by a two-thirds majority of members to back the president’s request.

    As the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, LP, Mr. Peter Obi, slammed the National Assembly for the approval, arguing that a two-thirds majority could not be determined through a voice vote, Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, said the legislators’ approval was done with unanimity without a single nay.

    While approving the emergency rule, the Senate said all regulations in Rivers State must be subjected to the approval and oversight of the National Assembly Joint Ad-hoc Committee.

    It also urged the federal government to institute a reconciliation mechanism, including setting up a peace and reconciliation committee, composed of the National Assembly, the executive, eminent Nigerians and other relevant stakeholders, to ensure lasting peace and stability in Rivers.

    In the House of Representatives, the legislators amended the proclamation of President Tinubu, insisting that Rivers State Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok Ibas, report back to the National Assembly and not the Federal Executive Council, FEC.

    Reps amendments

    The House made three amendments which were passed through a voice vote, with 243 members in attendance.
    Another amendment was that a national committee, composed of members from the Presidency, National Assembly and other eminent Nigerians be set up to mitigate and restore peace to Rivers State.

    The third amendment was that the President can review the period of emergency to a shorter period than six months.

    Though few members were allowed to make comments on the president’s request, others expressed concerns over constitutional provisions.

    Senate’s approval

    The Senate approved the state of emergency in Rivers State after about one and a half hours closed door session.!

    Speaking after the closed-door meeting on the resolutions reached by senators, Senate President Akpabio said: “The Senate invokes the powers conveyed on it by Section 305 of Section 2 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended ), approves the proclamation of state of emergency declared by Mr. President in Rivers State of Nigeria.

    “The Senate further directs that the declaration of the state of emergency stated in the proclamation documents demands that the President can review and even terminate the state of emergency at any given time, but not later than six months.

    “The Senate further resolved that Section 11, Subsection 4 be invoked, providing the National Assembly the authority to set up a joint ad hoc committee of both chambers to oversee the administration of Rivers State, henceforth.

    “The Senate further resolved that a committee of eminent Nigerians be set up to reconcile the warring groups in the government of River State within the period of the state of emergency.

    “The Senate further resolved that a committee of eminent Nigerians to reconcile the warring factions in Rivers State be set up to carry out their action during the period of state of emergency.

    “For final ratification, I put it to the Senate that those in favour of the proclamation of the state of emergency 2025 in Rivers State, should say aye “, which was affirmatively responded to by all the senators in the chamber.”

    An elated Akpabio, who was impressed with the affirmative response to the question by senators, said “This approval is done with unanimity, without a single nay.”

    The Senate President continued: “Therefore, pursuant to Section 60 of the constitution, Section 305 (2) and pursuant to our rules, Rule 1 (b) of the standing orders of the Senate and also pursuant to Rules 133, 134, 135 and 136 of the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the state of emergency proclamation in Rivers State was approved and other vital resolutions taken.”

    To give the entire process the required legislative backing, the Senate, thereafter, adjourned for one hour and reconvened later to pass the votes and proceedings of the entire session and finally adjourned to Tuesday, March 25, 2025.

    Disquiet at closed-door session

    Vanguard gathered that during the closed door session, senators were sharply divided over the issue.
    According to sources, quorum was not formed, hence senators present resorted to voice vote, against actual voting.

    Senators Seriake Dickson, PDP, Bayelsa West; Enyinnaya Abaribe, APGA, Abia South; Aminu Tambuwal, PDP, Sokoto South; and others stormed out of the chamber in anger as a result.

    Vanguard gathered that 64 senators signed the attendance register, though the presiding officers do not sign the register as they normally walk into the hallowed chamber with the principal officers.

    Earlier, Akpabio had informed his colleagues of President Tinubu’s letter on the proclamation of emergency rule in Rivers State and the letter was read at plenary.

    Akpabio, after reading the letter, said: This letter is committed to the committee of the entire Senate for immediate passage.’’

    The Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, APC, Ekiti Central, then raised Order 1(b) of the Senate Standing Orders to suspend all other items in the Order Paper to discuss only the Proclamation letter, he was seconded by the Minority Leader, Senator Abba Moro, PDP, Benue South, and the Senate immediately went into a closed door session.

    Akpabio, Dickson clash over Point of Order

    Prior to the closed-door session, there was a mild altercation between Senate President, Akpabio, and Senator Seriake Dickson when Dickson raised a point of Order after Akpabio read Tinubu’s letter.

    As Senator Dickson raised the point of Order, Akpabio told him to sit down and that he already knew where he stood on the state of emergency, having watched him on television on Wednesday, where he said his views would not align with that of the Senate.

    Akpabio and Dickson disagreed sharply over the procedure for handling President Tinubu’s proclamation of a state of emergency in Rivers State.

    The problem started when the Leader of the Senate, Opeyemi Bamidele, moved a motion to amend the order of proceedings, allowing the Senate to prioritize debate on the state of emergency before attending to other items on the order paper.

    As Bamidele rose to present the motion, Dickson raised a point of order, seeking to draw attention to what he described as a procedural requirement that the Senate should first convene a closed-door session before debating such a sensitive matter.

    Akpabio appeared reluctant to acknowledge Dickson’s point of order but as tension rose, he allowed Dickson to raise the point of order.

    The Bayelsa lawmaker drew the attention of the Senate to Order 133 of the Senate Standing Rules, which required matters of state of emergency to be deliberated upon in a closed door session.

    Akpabio upon hearing that, upheld his point of order, which was later held by the Senate where all its resolutions were taken on the state of emergency.

    The motion for the adoption of votes and proceedings of Wednesday was adopted by Senator Barinada Mpigi, PDP, Rivers South-East and seconded by Senator Idiat Adebule, APC, Lagos West.

    Obi slams NASS for approving emergency rule

    Faulting the National Assembly, Obi said the use of voice vote on such crucial issues was an insult to Nigerians and a breach of the 1999 constitution.

    Obi, who had along with several other opposition leaders made a passionate appeal to members of the National Assembly to reject the illegal removal of Rivers State governor, Similaya Fubara, and the State Assembly, in a series of tweets on his X handle, yesterday, wrote: “While still agonizing over the ongoing deterioration of democracy in our nation, especially with the situation in Rivers State, and trying to reach out to our National Assembly members not to support and sustain the unconstitutionality and arbitrariness, I just heard that they have added salt to injury by using a voice vote.

    “The constitution is clear that this cannot be done through a voice vote but by calling individuals to answer ‘yes’ or ‘no.’ You cannot determine a two-thirds majority by a voice vote.

    “While a two-thirds majority is crucial, it does not justify bypassing proper procedures and undermining the principles of transparency and accountability. The use of a voice vote in such a significant decision not only disregards constitutional requirements but also erodes public trust in the democratic process.

    “Decisions of such magnitude must be made with integrity, following the letter and spirit of the law. It’s disheartening that a decision as crucial as approving an emergency proclamation — one that could alter the course of the nation — was handled with such casual disregard for constitutional standards.

    “The 1999 Constitution of Nigeria (as amended) clearly requires that such a proclamation must be approved by at least two-thirds of all members of each arm of the legislature — the Senate and the House of Representatives.

    ‘’A simple call of “Aye” or “Nay” cannot accurately measure this crucial threshold. When a supermajority is required, it demands a recorded vote — whether by division, roll call, or electronic means.

    ‘’This isn’t just a technicality; it’s a matter of law and legitimacy. The Senate Standing Orders and House Rules were established to ensure that decisions of this magnitude are made transparently, with accountability. Ignoring these procedures is not just an oversight; it is a betrayal of the democratic process.”

    Some lawyers also faulted the process of approving the state of emergency proclamation through voice vote, arguing that the process was not sufficient and could nt guarantee fairness and transparency.

    A voice vote was insufficient to pass the resolution -Prof. Erugo, SAN

    Prof. Sam Erugo, SAN, said: “It is apparent that the Senate and House of Representatives did not appreciate the gravity of the President ‘s proclamation, which was referred to them for approval.

    ‘’By Section 305(2) of the Constitution, they were required to ‘consider the situation and decide whether or not to pass a resolution approving the Proclamation.’

    “Going by subsection (6), if there was no resolution supported by two-thirds of all the members of each House of the National Assembly approving the Proclamation, it would have lapsed after two days.
    “This provision shows the seriousness of the matter the National Assembly treated just like any other business.

    “That is the reason the two-thirds majority of each House is required. A voice vote is insufficient to pass the resolution approving the President’s proclamation, which, as it were, required a special resolution and, obviously, the voice vote is unconstitutional.

    “There is no way to determine that two-thirds majority ‘of all the members’ voted in favour of the proclamation, as required by the Constitution.

    “One wonders why the hurry. In other jurisdictions, we should have seen robust debates in both Houses, considering the situation in Rivers State, to determine whether it required the extreme measure of declaration of state of emergency, and to the extent of removing an elected governor.

    “It is unfortunate that Nigerians were deprived the opportunity to have vital information beyond the President’s partisan remarks that would appear to have decided against the governor.”

    Voice voting does not guarantee fairness, transparency -Edun, SAN

    In his reaction, Kunle Edun, SAN, said: “The Rules of the House will guide the legislators how the voting would be done. However, members can insist on a transparent process and considering the national importance of this issue, they should request for physical or electronic voting and counting of the votes.

    “Voice voting does not guarantee fairness and transparency as shown in previous sessions presided over by the Senate President particularly.

    “To show to the whole world the fairness of the entire process, voting must be done either electronically or physically and how each senator voted must be published for Nigerians to see.”

    Uzodimma backs Tinubu, says it’s a national security necessity

    The Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum and Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodimma, has thrown his weight behind President Bola Tinubu’s decision to declare a state of emergency in Rivers State. He described the move as a proactive step necessary to prevent a looming crisis that could destabilize both the state and Nigeria’s economy.

    Addressing journalists in Owerri, Governor Uzodimma emphasized the significance of Rivers State to the nation’s economic survival, particularly in crude oil production. He noted that the ongoing political tensions and refusal of key players to heed advisory interventions had escalated into a national security concern. The governor referenced recent reports of pipeline bombings and explosions in the state, stressing that at a time when Nigeria is striving to boost crude oil production to strengthen its currency and economy, such unrest cannot be tolerated.

    “The President was very proactive, and his actions are highly commendable. Prevention, they say, is better than cure. Imagine what would have happened if the impeachment went ahead—it would have triggered actions and reactions, leading to violence and widespread unrest,” Uzodimma stated.

    He also commended the National Assembly for supporting President Tinubu’s decision, describing it as a step taken in the national interest. He expressed confidence in the Federal Executive Council’s ability to oversee the situation effectively and ensure that law and order prevail. While acknowledging that the Progressive Governors’ Forum had not yet convened since the declaration, Uzodimma assured that, as chairman, he could confidently affirm that the forum stands firmly behind the President.

    “To the best of my knowledge, none of our members will go against the actions of the President. We support any decision that protects the security and stability of the country,” he concluded.

  • We’re committed to democracy, free speech, healthy opposition — FG

    We’re committed to democracy, free speech, healthy opposition — FG

    ABUJA: The federal government has reaffirmed President Tinubu’s commitment to upholding the constitutionally guaranteed rights of all Nigerians, including freedom of speech and healthy opposition. The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, stated this yesterday at the ongoing ministerial briefing session in Abuja.

    He pledged the government’s continuous support for creating a conducive environment for the media to thrive in Nigeria and emphasized that constructive criticism and opposition were essential for reinforcing and deepening Nigeria’s democratic framework.

    The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, and his counterpart from the Ministry of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, briefed the media at the 5th edition of the Ministerial Press Briefing Session.

    “I want to re-emphasize that President Tinubu, as a foremost democrat, is fully committed to protecting the constitutionally guaranteed rights of all Nigerians, and also encourages constructive criticism and healthy opposition because of their essential role in reinforcing and deepening our democratic framework.

    “I hereby take the liberty to reaffirm the commitment of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Administration to upholding press freedom and creating a conducive environment for media practice in Nigeria. This administration believes that a free and responsible press is essential for good governance, transparency, and national development,” Idris said.

    The minister also pledged the government’s continued support for creating a conducive environment for the media to thrive in Nigeria.

    He said a free and responsible press was essential for good governance, transparency, and national development.

    Idris congratulated the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, on its 70th anniversary, acknowledging their enduring commitment to press freedom and journalistic excellence.

    The ongoing ministerial briefing, spearheaded by his ministry, highlights the government’s commitment to accountability and transparency.

    Idris described the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Tuggar, as a seasoned diplomat who deserved commendation for his commitment to promoting Nigeria’s image on the global stage through proactive diplomacy, strategic international engagements, and a clear articulation of Nigeria’s foreign policy objectives.

    He also praised the Minister of Interior, Dr. Tunji-Ojo, for bringing remarkable innovation towards repositioning the ministry, in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu.

  • Emefiele: Court rejects EFCC’s request to file additional evidence

    Emefiele: Court rejects EFCC’s request to file additional evidence

    ABUJA– A High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, at Maitama, on Thursday, dismissed an application the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, brought for permission to file additional proof of evidence in the ongoing trial of the former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN, Godwin Emefiele.

    The court, in a ruling that was delivered by Justice Hamza Muazu, noted that the anti-graft agency sought to introduce fresh evidence in the matter, over a year after the charge was filed.

    EFCC, in the application it filed on October 15, 2024, equally sought the court’s permission to produce two more witnesses whose names were given as Tommy Odama John and Ifeanyi Omeke.

    The court processes revealed that the proposed witnesses made extra-judicial statements in August 2024, while the charge was filed on August 14, 2023.

    Ruling on the matter on Thursday, the court, while upholding an objection the embattled former CBN boss filed in opposition to the application, held that the EFCC had on February 12, 2024, also filed additional proof of evidence against the defendant.

    Justice Muazu held that it was the said additional evidence that accommodated the testimony of a former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha, as well as that of one Bamayi Mairiga.

    He stressed that the action of the EFCC had a semblance of an attempt to deny fair hearing to the defendant who took his plea on November 16, 2023, since he was not confronted with the new evidence during investigation as required by law.

    The court equally held that the action of the prosecuting agency amounted to trial by ambush and a clear case of fishing for evidence in the trial that commenced on November 28, 2023.

    It was the judge’s position that allowing the additional proof of evidence after the charge had been amended severally would be prejudicial to the defendant as his right to fair hearing would be jeopardised.

    He held that the law made it clear that investigation must have been completed and a prima facie case established before a charge is preferred against a defendant.

    However, the court declined Emefiele’s plea for the charge against him to be struck out for being a product of an incomplete or ongoing investigation and therefore speculative.

    According to the court, the charge could not be struck out since the defendant and the prosecution had already joined issues with each other and the trial was almost completed.

    Justice Muazu held that having gone so far, justice would be served if the trial was completed on its merit and final judgment delivered in the matter.

    He further declined to expunge the evidence of the former SGF Mustapha and Bamayi Mairiga from the court’s records as requested by Emefiele who contended that evidence of the two witnesses was offensive to the tenets of fair hearing provided in section 36 (2) of the 1999 Constitution, as amended.

    The erstwhile CBN governor had through his team of lawyers led by Mr. Mathew Burkaa, SAN, insisted that he was not afforded the opportunity to respond to extra-judicial statements the two witnesses made after his trial had already commenced.

    Meanwhile, the court adjourned further hearing in the charge against Emefiele marked FCT/HC/CR/577/2023 till June 3.

    EFCC had in the amended charge before the court, accused the defendant of complicity in procurement fraud totalling about N1.2 billion.

    The anti-graft agency alleged that the former CBN governor illegally awarded contracts for the purchase of 43 vehicles between 2018 and 2020 worth N1.2 billion.

    He was further accused of giving a corrupt advantage to one Mrs. Sa’adatu Ramallan Yaro, by awarding her a contract for the procurement of 37 Toyota Hilux Vehicles valued at N854 million.

  • USAID’s alleged support for Boko Haram still unproven – Tuggar

    USAID’s alleged support for Boko Haram still unproven – Tuggar

    ABUJA— Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, has stated that Nigeria is looking into claims that the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is backing Boko Haram, noting that the allegation remains unverified.

    Speaking during the 2025 Ministerial Press Briefing Series on Thursday in Abuja, Tuggar emphasised that Nigeria is taking the allegation seriously.

    He stated that despite these concerns, Boko Haram has been significantly degraded and the government is actively working to rehabilitate and reintegrate affected individuals.

    He highlighted the Safe Corridor programme in Gombe where former militants, combatants and non-combatants are assessed and given necessary support.

    He said, “With regards to the dignity of Nigeria and this allegation because it is an allegation, it’s not something that has been proven. And we know that politics is also played in the United States of America. They have partisan politics. It’s not our business. We’re not getting involved in their domestic politics.

    “I can tell you for free that Boko Haram has been severely degraded. We have a Safe Corridor in Gombe where suspected militants, combatants and non-combatants, those who were trapped during the conflict, are being sorted out. Those that need to be reoriented are being reoriented. Those that need to be tried are being tried. Those that need to be supported and resettled are being resettled,” Tuggar explained.

    The minister also praised Nigeria’s counterterrorism strategies, noting that the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) has become a model for other nations.

    “Somalia is looking at what we’re doing, saying they want to copy us, and several others. Sometimes, we take for granted some of the homegrown solutions we come up with. The Multinational Joint Task Force is being studied by developed countries, asking, ‘How are these guys doing it?’ We want to do the same thing,” he said.

    Tuggar also recalled Nigeria’s long-standing contributions to peacekeeping missions across Africa, including efforts in Sierra Leone and Liberia, urging Nigerians to recognise the country’s achievements in security and diplomacy.

    “We really need to start looking at ourselves differently. We need to start looking at our model and our applications. We need to start looking at what we did with regards to peacebuilding in Sierra Leone, in Liberia, and what we’re doing now in the Northeast,” he said.

  • Two soldiers, three others killed in ambush by armed herdsmen in Benue

    Two soldiers, three others killed in ambush by armed herdsmen in Benue

    At least two soldiers and three others have been reportedly killed by suspected armed herdsmen at Anyiase community, near Jato Aka in Kwande Local Government Area, LGA, of Benue state.

    Recall that several communities around Jato Aka have repeatedly come under attacks from armed herdsmen who, over time, sacked several of the communities, forcing the locals to flee to the center of Jato Aka for safety.

    It was gathered that the two soldiers were killed in an ambush by the bandits who Wednesday attacked the community, where three of the locals were also killed.

    According to the source, “We were told that the bandits attacked the community killing three persons and the soldiers who were on patrol ran into them and in the ensuing fight two soldiers were killed and some of the bandits were also killed.

    “The development has forced a lot of people to flee their homes while many ran to catch a glimpse of the remains of the soldiers.”

    Lamenting the development, the President General of Mzough U Tiv, MUT, worldwide and Chairman of leaders of Benue Socio-Cultural organisations, Chief Iorbee Ihagh, who hails from Kwande LGA said, “Five persons made up of two soldiers and three natives were killed in the attack.”

    Chief Ihagh appealed to Governor Hyacinth Alia to intensify efforts to improve the security of the state’s people and urged the Benue people to learn to always defend themselves.

    He charged the people to “re-enact the 1804 traditional ways of confronting the invaders through their poisonous arrow to defend themselves.”

    The Special Adviser to the Governor on Internal Security, Chief Joseph Har, also confirmed the development. He said he had been making efforts to reach the commander of the team without success.

    Operation Whirl Stoke, OPWS, a joint military spike operation in the state, could not be reached for comment, and the Police Public Relations Officer, Chief Superintendent, CSP, Catherine Anene, declined to comment on the matter.

    The Chairman of Kwande LGA, Mr. Vitalis Neji, did not respond to calls and text messages sent to his phone.

    Meanwhile, the Chief Press Secretary to the Benue State Governor, Tersoo Kula, in a statement Thursday, said the Benue State Executive Council, at its meeting, presided over by Governor Hyacinth Alia, condemned the tragic murder of the “two soldiers from the Nigerian Army, who were murdered by armed herders while on duty, protecting civilians in Turan, Kwande LGA.”

  • I was over half a billion in debt – Mr Macaroni shares financial struggle

    I was over half a billion in debt – Mr Macaroni shares financial struggle

    Popular content creator and actor, Mr Macaroni, has opened up about his financial challenges, revealing that he fell victim to both a scam and a failed investment in 2021, which wiped out his savings.

    Following these financial setbacks, he resorted to borrowing money to meet his obligations, eventually accumulating a staggering debt of N500 million.

    He acknowledged that his generosity and financial recklessness contributed to his struggles.

    In a detailed post shared on his X handle on Thursday, Mr Macaroni disclosed:

    “Sometime around 2021/2022 I was victim of a scam and simultaneously a failed investment that cost me all I had saved at the time. It shook me deeply but I told no one about it. If you know me well enough, you would know I do not like to share my problems. I could be going through the worst and at the same time helping others solve their own problems but I just would never share mine.”

    He explained that after losing all his savings, he turned to borrowing to meet his commitments, assuming his income would be sufficient to cover the debts.

    However, he soon realised he was merely paying off interests, which worsened his financial situation.

    “After I lost all the money I had then, trouble started when I had to borrow money from different sources to settle all pending commitments and also fulfill certain responsibilities I have always believed were mine to fulfill. I make money in millions so I never thought borrowing money to pay back with interest could ever be a problem. But I got too comfortable and it took me a long time to realize that I was using the money I was earning to pay back interests. Also, my financial recklessness did not help. Please don’t borrow money! But if you must, please be responsible.”

    The actor described 2024 as both a defining moment in his career and the most challenging year of his life due to his enormous debt burden.

    His frustration was further compounded by a betrayal from someone he once regarded as “a friend and sister.”

    Despite these struggles, Mr Macaroni expressed gratitude to his family and friends, whose unwavering support helped him through difficult times.

    He shared that he now feels much better than he has in years.

    He concluded by saying that he chose to open up about his ordeal to inspire others facing financial difficulties, urging them to remain strong and seek support.

  • Suspension of Fubara, others: Tinubu has stabbed Niger Delta in the back – PANDEF

    Suspension of Fubara, others: Tinubu has stabbed Niger Delta in the back – PANDEF

    The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has strongly condemned President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s declaration of a State of Emergency in Rivers State, calling it a betrayal of the Niger Delta region.

    The group expressed its outrage in a communiqué issued after an emergency meeting of its Board of Trustees and expanded National Executive Committee in Abuja on Wednesday, March 19, 2025.

    The emergency meeting was convened in response to President Tinubu’s suspension of Rivers State Governor, Deputy Governor, and the House of Assembly on Tuesday, March 18, 2025. PANDEF described the move as “shocking” and “widely condemned by most Nigerians.”

    According to PANDEF, the declaration of a State of Emergency comes just days after President Tinubu hosted a high-level South-South delegation that included traditional rulers, former governors, and ex-service chiefs. During that meeting, Tinubu had reportedly commended PANDEF’s Peace and Reconciliation Committee for its mediation efforts in the Rivers political crisis and encouraged them to continue their work.

    Despite the President’s assurances, PANDEF highlighted several troubling developments leading up to the emergency declaration:

    On March 12, 2025, just a day after the delegation’s visit, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, whom PANDEF accuses of fueling the political crisis in Rivers State, made “derogatory remarks” against the group and Niger Delta leaders. Tinubu has not reprimanded Wike despite public outrage.

    Governor Siminalayi Fubara had expressed his willingness to present the 2025 budget in line with a Supreme Court judgment and the President’s directive. However, the Rivers State House of Assembly abruptly went on indefinite adjournment on March 14 and later initiated impeachment proceedings against the Governor and his Deputy.

    On March 17, PANDEF formally wrote to President Tinubu expressing concerns over the obstruction of the budget presentation by the FCT Minister and the House of Assembly.

    On March 18, just a day before the Governor was scheduled to present the budget, Tinubu declared a State of Emergency, effectively removing the elected state leadership.

    PANDEF recalled that in May 2013, Tinubu had strongly opposed former President Goodluck Jonathan’s declaration of a State of Emergency in Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa states during the height of Boko Haram insurgency. At the time, Tinubu had condemned the move as a “diabolic partisanship” meant to undermine democracy. PANDEF now questions why Tinubu would take even more drastic action against Rivers State, where the situation is far less dire than in the insurgency-ravaged North.

    The group also pointed out that similar pipeline attacks have occurred in the past without triggering a military response or emergency declaration. It criticized the government’s double standards, noting that states in the North, which have suffered repeated terrorist attacks, have not faced such measures.

    Furthermore, PANDEF questioned the timing of the emergency rule, as the Court of Appeal was yet to rule on the legality of the Rivers State House of Assembly members involved in the crisis. The group sees the move as a deliberate attempt to subvert ongoing judicial processes.

    In its communiqué, PANDEF urged the National Assembly, led by Senate President Godswill Akpabio and House Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, to reject what it called an “onslaught on democratic governance.” The group vowed to continue advocating for peace and pursuing all constitutional means to challenge the President’s actions.

    Signed by top PANDEF leaders, including Co-Chairmen HRM Alfred Diete-Spiff and Obong Victor Attah, National Chairman Amb. Dr. Godknows Igali, and National Spokesman Chief Obiuwevbi Ominimini, the communiqué underscores PANDEF’s determination to resist what it sees as an unjustified political intervention in Rivers State.

    As tensions rise, the Niger Delta waits to see how both the government and the National Assembly will respond to these accusations of political overreach.

  • Japan becomes first to seal 2026 World Cup spot

    Japan becomes first to seal 2026 World Cup spot

    Japan became the first team to qualify for the 2026 World Cup on Thursday as South Korea were held but still inched closer along with a rampant Australia.

    Daichi Kamada and Takefusa Kubo scored in the second half to give Japan a 2-0 home win over Bahrain and take their place alongside hosts the United States, Canada and Mexico at next year’s finals.

    The runaway Asian Group C leaders failed to sparkle on a chilly night in Saitama until substitute Kamada pounced for the opener in the 66th minute.

    In front of nearly 60,000 fans, Kubo added another in the 87th minute as Japan sealed their berth in style.

    It will be their eighth straight World Cup appearance.

    “I’m relieved that we could qualify at home in front of our supporters,” said Kubo, before he and his team-mates doused coach Hajime Moriyasu with water.

    “This here is not our goal — we want to compete against strong teams at the World Cup.”

    Australia are in pole position to qualify out of Group C with Japan.

    Two goals in two minutes helped the Socceroos secure a 5-1 thrashing of Indonesia as Dutch legend Patrick Kluivert was well beaten in his first game in charge.

    Japan lead on 19 points. Australia are second on 10 points, four clear of the chasing pack of Saudi Arabia, Indonesia, Bahrain and China.

    Australia have three games left to play, starting with a crunch away fixture against China on Tuesday.

    The top two go straight to North America, with teams finishing third and fourth in the three Asian groups going into a further round of qualifying.

    Indonesia missed an early penalty before a Martin Boyle spot-kick and a Nishan Velupillay strike inside a frantic opening 20 minutes did the damage at Sydney Football Stadium.

    A brace from Jackson Irvine and another by Lewis Miller sealed a big win, but Australian skipper Mat Ryan was not entirely satisfied.

    “I think the scoreline flatters us a little bit to be honest,” the goalkeeper said.

    “At the start of the game they had two big chances, and if they put one of them away, it could have been a different game.”

    – Oman late leveller –

    South Korea are still on course for 2026 but conceded a goal with 10 minutes left as Oman snatched a precious 1-1 away draw.

    The hosts looked set for all three points after Wolves striker Hwang Hee-chan put them ahead in the first half with a clinical finish after Lee Kang-in’s superb threaded-through ball.

    But Ali Al Busaidi struck from just outside the box to stun most of the crowd at Goyang Stadium.

    South Korea still lead Asian qualifying Group B with 15 points and three matches left to play, starting at home to Jordan on Tuesday.

    Iraq are second in the group on 11 but have played a game less.

    Jordan are third on nine with Oman fourth on seven.

  • Military won’t allow destruction of national assets – DHQ

    Military won’t allow destruction of national assets – DHQ

    Military High Command has reiterated that the Armed Forces of Nigeria will not fold its arms and allow any individual or group of individuals to destroy the country’s critical national assets.

    The Director, Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Markus Kangye, stated this while briefing newsmen on the operations of the military across the country on Thursday in Abuja.

    This followed the recent incidents of explosions on some crude oil pipelines in Rivers.

    Kangye said the military had been in the forefront of protecting the nation’s oil installations in the Niger Delta, adding that the commanding officers were focused on achieving the mandate.

    “The field commanders are aware of all that is happening in the field. So whatever has happened, they will interrogate it and come up with their findings.

    “It would be prejudicial for me to tell you this is the outcome of their findings, while they have not formulated their findings.

    “I want to tell you that there is no doubt the military will not hold their hands and allow some of our critical infrastructures to be destroyed by criminals.

    “That is why they are there, to protect those critical infrastructures,” he said.

    Kangye said the troops of Operation Delta Safe had in the last one week foiled oil theft estimated to the tune of about N461.7 in the South South region.

    He added that a total of 247,629 litres of stolen crude oil and 198,374 litres of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) were recovered during the week.

    According to him, troops discovered and destroyed 36 crude oil cooking ovens, 42 dugout pits, 28 boats, 33 storage tanks, 65 drums and 21 illegal refining sites.

    “Other items recovered include pumping machines, tricycles, motorcycles, mobile phones and some vehicles amongst others.

    “Furthermore, 17 oil thieves and other criminals were arrested while assorted arms and ammunition as well as one extra magazine were also recovered,” he said.