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MINISTER OF DEFENCE SALUTES PRESIDENT TINUBU ON 73RD BIRTHDAY, COMMENDS RENEWED HOPE AGENDA

The Minister of Defence, Dr. Bello Mohammed Matawalle, has extended warm congratulations to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on his 73rd birthday, praising his leadership and the impact of the Renewed Hope Agenda on national security. In a statement by the Director of Information and Public Relations, Iyogun Sunday, the Minister of Defence commended President Tinubu’s decisive actions in strengthening the nation’s security framework. Matawalle highlighted the President’s bold and transformative steps, which have significantly improved safety across Nigeria in a short period. Matawalle stated, “President Tinubu has taken bold and transformative steps that are already yielding positive results in our collective pursuit of peace and safety.” He emphasized that history would remember the President for his courageous efforts to reposition Nigeria for a brighter future. The Minister also noted the visible progress resulting from the President’s policies, adding, “On this special occasion of his birthday, I, on behalf of my family, the Ministry of Defence, and all Nigerians, wish the President long life, good health, and the fortitude to continue making the courageous decisions necessary for our nation’s development.” Matawalle further expressed confidence in the President’s vision, stating, “Your transformative policies strengthen our faith in Nigeria. Mr. President, I salute your excellence.” The statement reaffirmed the Defence Ministry’s support for the administration’s efforts to ensure a secure and prosperous Nigeria.

VIDEO: GOVERNOR OKPEBHOLO CELEBRATES PRESIDENT TINUBU’S BIRTHDAY, HAILS HIS VISIONARY LEADERSHIP

The Executive Governor of Edo State, His Excellency Senator Monday Okpebholo, has extended warm birthday wishes to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on behalf of the Government and people of Edo State. In a heartfelt message, Governor Okpebholo praised the President’s visionary leadership and dedication to Nigeria’s progress. Governor Okpebholo stated, “We deeply appreciate your visionary leadership, unwavering commitment to the progress and unity of our great nation, and your continued support for the development of Edo State.” He further wished the President good health, wisdom, and greater achievements in his service to Nigeria. The Governor’s message read in part, “May this new year bring you good health, continued wisdom, and even greater achievements in your service to Nigeria. Happy Birthday, Your Excellency!” The felicitation highlights the strong relationship between the Edo State Government and the Federal Government under President Tinubu’s administration. Governor Okpebholo’s message reflects the admiration and respect for the President’s efforts in fostering national unity and development.

GOVERNOR OKPEBHOLO HAILS PRESIDENT TINUBU AS FATHER OF MODERN NIGERIA ON HIS BIRTHDAY

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has described President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the father of modern Nigeria, saluting him on his birthday. In a statement, the Chief Press Secretary to the Edo State Governor, Fred Itua, said the governor extended warm wishes on behalf of the government and people of Edo State. Governor Okpebholo joined millions of Nigerians in celebrating Tinubu’s dedication to national development and unwavering commitment to Nigeria’s progress. “President Tinubu’s visionary leadership and tireless efforts to steer Nigeria towards greater heights are deeply appreciated. As the father of Modern Nigeria, President Tinubu is making huge impacts that Nigerians will one day remember him for,” the governor said. Itua stated that Governor Okpebholo acknowledged Tinubu’s political sagacity and resolve in addressing national challenges, noting his role in shaping Nigeria’s trajectory. “We recognize and applaud his dedication to fostering unity, promoting economic growth, and strengthening the foundations of our democracy,” the governor added. The statement further highlighted prayers for Tinubu’s continued good health, wisdom, and strength to lead Nigeria towards a brighter future. “We are confident that under his leadership, Nigeria will continue to make significant strides in all spheres of development,” Governor Okpebholo said. Itua noted that the Edo State Government reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with the Federal Government to achieve shared goals and improve the lives of Nigerians. “Edo State is committed to a strong and cooperative relationship,” the governor emphasized. The statement concluded with birthday wishes for the president. “We wish President Bola Ahmed Tinubu a joyous and memorable birthday celebration,” Itua said. Signed by Fred Itua, the Chief Press Secretary to the Edo State Governor, the statement was released on Saturday, 29 March, 2025.

ATIKU MEDIA OFFICE DENIES ALLEGED MONEY TRANSACTION WITH LAGOS GOVERNOR, CALLS IT POLITICAL PROPAGANDA

The Atiku Media Office has dismissed reports linking former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to an alleged financial transaction involving Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, describing the claim as false and politically motivated. In a statement signed by Media Adviser Paul Ibe, the office condemned the allegation as a “blatant lie from the pit of hell” and a deliberate smear campaign orchestrated to serve the political interests of President Bola Tinubu. Paul Ibe stated that Atiku Abubakar has no prior acquaintance or dealings with Governor Sanwo-Olu and questioned the logic behind such a transaction, particularly during the 2023 presidential election where Tinubu was a contestant. “How is it possible for an Atiku that does not know and had no connection with Sanwo-Olu to be having a transaction with him involving the exchange of money?” the statement read. The Media Office suggested that the allegation was a ploy to discredit Sanwo-Olu, who is perceived to have fallen out of favor with Tinubu’s political circle, while also undermining the opposition coalition that includes Atiku Abubakar. Ibe further criticized the credibility of the report, pointing out that an unnamed aide of Sanwo-Olu was cited in the story disparaging his principal. “Pray, who does that?” he asked. The statement also challenged the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to disclose the findings of its alleged investigation, emphasizing that the public, including Atiku Abubakar and Labour Party’s Peter Obi, deserves transparency. “Since the EFCC has been dragged into the arena of politics and propaganda, we challenge the anti-corruption agency to make public the outcome of its alleged investigation,” Ibe said. The Media Office demanded an immediate end to what it termed a “voyage of misadventure and campaign of calumny” against Atiku Abubakar. Paul Ibe reiterated that the former Vice President remains unshaken by such tactics and urged the public to disregard the allegations. The statement concluded with a firm warning against further attempts to tarnish Atiku Abubakar’s reputation, reaffirming his commitment to Nigeria’s political progress.

PRESIDENT TINUBU TO OBSERVE 73RD BIRTHDAY WITH NATIONAL MOSQUE PRAYERS

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will mark his 73rd birthday with special prayers at Abuja’s National Mosque this Friday, focusing on divine guidance for Nigeria’s stability and development. In a statement, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, confirmed the spiritual observance which precedes Tinubu’s actual birthday on Saturday. The event coincides with Ramadan and comes two months before the administration’s second anniversary. Onanuga explained that the President views this occasion as both personal thanksgiving and national intercession. “The prayer session reflects Mr. President’s conviction that spiritual devotion complements governance,” the statement read. The adviser noted Tinubu’s invitation for nationwide participation, urging citizens to offer prayers wherever they may be. “His Excellency believes collective supplication can unite Nigerians across faiths and regions,” Onanuga added. The statement included the President’s personal reflection: “I remain grateful for Allah’s mercy and the honor of serving Nigeria. This birthday renews my hope that through prayer and perseverance, we shall overcome every challenge.” Onanuga emphasized the administration’s continued focus on economic reforms, security enhancement and national unity. The President reaffirmed his commitment to democratic consolidation and inclusive development. Concluding the release, Onanuga reiterated Tinubu’s birthday message of hope, calling on Nigerians to maintain faith in the nation’s destiny. The prayer session is expected to be attended by government officials, religious leaders and members of the diplomatic community.

AFRICAN COALITION FOR DEMOCRACY SLAMS TINUBU, NASS OVER EMERGENCY RULE IN RIVERS

The African Coalition for Democracy (ACD) has strongly condemned President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of emergency rule in Rivers State, describing it as a blatant disregard for democratic principles and the rule of law. According to the group, the move, which suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara and other elected officials, is a clear violation of the Constitution and an affront to the democratic process. Dr Bathlomew Benjamin, who signed the statement, stated that the President’s action is a dangerous precedent that threatens the stability of Nigeria’s democratic system. “The suspension of Governor Fubara and other elected officials is a clear indication that the President and the National Assembly are more interested in consolidating power than in upholding democratic principles,” Benjamin said. The ACD criticized the National Assembly for rubber-stamping the President’s decision without due consideration, abandoning their constitutional responsibility to check the excesses of the Executive. “According to Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution, the President can declare a state of emergency, but this must be done in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution, which requires the approval of the National Assembly,” the statement said. The group demands that President Tinubu and the National Assembly respect the Constitution and the will of the people, upholding democratic principles and allowing the people of Rivers State to choose their own leaders. The ACD also calls on the international community to condemn this blatant disregard for democratic principles and to support the Nigerian people in their quest for democracy and good governance. “We demand that President Tinubu and the National Assembly respect the Constitution and the will of the people. We demand that they uphold democratic principles and allow the people of Rivers State to choose their own leaders. Anything less is a betrayal of the trust reposed in them by the Nigerian people,” the statement added. The ACD further called on the international community to place Nigeria on a watch list for democratic backsliding and to consider imposing targeted sanctions on individuals responsible for undermining Nigeria’s democracy. “We urge the United Nations, the European Union, the African Union, and other international organizations to condemn President Tinubu’s declaration of emergency rule in Rivers State and the National Assembly’s rubber-stamping of this decision,” the statement concluded.

PRESIDENT TINUBU ORDERS INVESTIGATION INTO DEADLY TANKER EXPLOSION IN ABUJA

President Bola Tinubu has directed a thorough investigation into the tanker explosion that occurred near Karu Bridge in Abuja on Wednesday night, resulting in multiple accidents and loss of lives. The President extended his condolences to the families of those who lost their lives, saying “The President condoled with family members who lost loved ones in the inferno, which happened at the peak hour”. He also directed authorities to prioritize medical care for the injured, ordering “priority treatment of the injured in various medical facilities in the capital”. Additionally, President Tinubu instructed security agencies to strengthen traffic controls at Abuja’s entry and exit points to prevent similar incidents. First Lady Oluremi Tinubu also commiserated with the victims and the Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike. She urged truck owners to ensure their vehicles are roadworthy to avert future tragedies and prayed for the recovery of the injured and the repose of the departed souls. The tanker explosion, which occurred during peak traffic hours, triggered several accidents and caused widespread destruction. According to reports, six people lost their lives, 25 were injured, and 18 vehicles were severely damaged or burnt in the incident.

TINUBU’S STATE OF EMERGENCY IN RIVERS STATE CONDEMNED BY PDP CHIEFTAIN

The Chairman of the PDP Caretaker Committee in Ekiti State, Hon. Dare Adeleke, has strongly condemned the state of emergency declared by President Bola Tinubu in Rivers State. In a statement, Adeleke described the president’s pronouncement as illegal, warning that it could tear the country apart and plunge Nigeria into anarchy. In a statement, the Chairman of the PDP Ekiti Caretaker Committee, Hon. Dare Adeleke, said: “It is shocking that President Tinubu has embarked on a mission to weaken Nigeria’s democracy and destroy the very fabric on which it stands.” Adeleke stated that Tinubu’s actions are a desperate bid to seize Rivers State ahead of 2027, hand in hand with his loyalist, Nyesom Wike. Adeleke noted that Tinubu has blatantly ignored the 1999 Constitution by appointing a retired military officer, Admiral Ibokette Ibas, to govern Rivers State after suspending the governor and the state’s National Assembly under the guise of protecting national interests. “The president, who swore to protect democracy and the people, has embarked on a reckless mission that could tear the country apart and push it into anarchy,” Adeleke said. Dare Adeleke also condemned Wike’s role in the crisis, describing him as a traitor to his party, the PDP, who is shamelessly oppressing his own people. “All because he wants to play godfather, continue ruling Rivers by proxy, and continue to exploit its resources,” Adeleke added. Adeleke called on the judiciary to restore Nigerians’ trust in the institution and to put President Tinubu in check. He also urged the National Assembly to refuse to be complicit in this “disgraceful abuse of power” and called on the international community to intervene.

PRESIDENT TINUBU’S STATE OF EMERGENCY DECLARATION: A CASE OF POLITICAL DOUBLE STANDARDS?

President Bola Tinubu’s recent declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State has sparked controversy, particularly given his past criticism of former President Goodluck Jonathan’s similar actions. In 2013, Jonathan had declared a state of emergency in Adamawa, Yobe, and Borno States, citing security concerns. At the time, Tinubu, then National Leader of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), had vehemently criticized Jonathan’s decision, describing it as “a dangerous trend in the art of governance” with “political undertones.” Tinubu had argued that such actions could “give root to radical ideologies and extremist tendencies” and were “unwarranted and unintelligent meddlesomeness.” However, Tinubu’s current decision to declare a state of emergency in Rivers State, citing a prolonged political crisis, has raised questions about his consistency on the matter. Critics argue that Tinubu’s past criticism of Jonathan’s actions was politically motivated, and that his current decision is a case of double standards. The similarities between the two situations are striking. In both cases, the presidents cited security concerns and a breakdown in governance as justification for declaring a state of emergency. However, Tinubu’s past criticism of Jonathan’s actions suggests that he may have been motivated by political considerations rather than a genuine concern for the welfare of the people. The declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State has significant implications for the state’s governance and the rule of law. The suspension of the state’s elected officials, including Governor Siminalayi Fubara, has raised concerns about the erosion of democratic institutions and the potential for abuse of power. Ultimately, the controversy surrounding Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State highlights the need for consistency and transparency in governance. As the nation watches the unfolding events in Rivers State, it remains to be seen whether Tinubu’s actions will be guided by a genuine commitment to the rule of law and democratic principles, or by political expediency.

EL-RUFAI CLAIMS POLITICAL LEADERS KNEW ABOUT TINUBU’S DEGREE DISPUTE BEFORE 2023 POLLS, URGES OPPOSITION TO UNITE

Nasir El-Rufai, the former governor of Kaduna State, has revealed that political leaders, including himself, were aware of the ongoing controversy surrounding President Bola Tinubu’s academic records in the United States prior to the 2023 presidential election. Despite the allegations, they decided to back Tinubu, hoping he would bring the same level of success he achieved in Lagos to the entire nation. El-Rufai, who has since left the All Progressives Congress (APC) to join the Social Democratic Party (SDP), shared these details in a recent interview with BBC Hausa. He has become a strong critic of both the APC and the current Tinubu administration. In the same interview, El-Rufai urged opposition leaders to come together under one umbrella, specifically calling on prominent figures like Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Rotimi Amaechi, and Rauf Aregbesola to join the SDP ahead of future elections. He emphasized the need for a united front to challenge the ruling party effectively. Addressing accusations of disloyalty, particularly from former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, El-Rufai defended his political choices, stating that his decisions are driven by a focus on performance and results rather than personal allegiances. The dispute over Tinubu’s academic credentials from Chicago State University (CSU) became a major talking point during the 2023 elections. While CSU confirmed that Tinubu did attend and graduate from the institution, it also clarified that the diploma he submitted to Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) was not issued by the university, casting doubt on its validity. El-Rufai’s disclosures, along with rising dissatisfaction within the APC, have led to increased speculation about potential shifts in political alliances as the 2027 elections approach.