Top Nigerian Newspaper Headlines For Today

Good Morning, Nigeria! Here’s Your Daily News Roundup

INEC Raises Concerns Over Natasha Akpoti’s Recall Petition

Hey there, Nigeria! Let’s dive into the latest developments in the political landscape. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has flagged some significant issues regarding the ongoing attempt by constituents to recall Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central. In an official statement, INEC highlighted that the recall petition doesn’t meet the necessary requirements outlined under Clause 1(f). Specifically, the petition lacks comprehensive contact information for the petitioners. This is a crucial detail, as it’s essential for transparency and accountability.

Interestingly, the petition includes only the phone number of the lead petitioner, with the address vaguely listed as “Okene, Kogi State.” INEC’s National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun, emphasized that a valid petition must provide complete contact details, including addresses, phone numbers, and email addresses. The commission also noted that the petition was accompanied by six bags of documents, supposedly containing signatures from more than half of the 474,554 registered voters across 902 polling units in 57 registration areas within five local government areas. However, until the petition meets all requirements, INEC won’t proceed with the verification process.

In light of this, INEC urged the public to disregard any misinformation circulating on social media regarding the recall process. It’s crucial to rely on verified sources for updates on such significant matters.

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Atiku Abubakar Calls for Urgent Restructuring at Coalition Meeting

At a pivotal coalition meeting in Yola, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar reiterated the pressing need for restructuring in Nigeria. Speaking passionately, Atiku warned that the current trajectory of the nation poses a grave threat to the democratic rights of its citizens. He emphasized that without immediate action, future generations will bear the consequences of inaction.

Naija News reports that Atiku, who ran as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, hinted at an upcoming statement addressing national issues. He urged his supporters to remain patient, assuring them that he would soon break his silence on the state of the nation. Senator Ishaku Abbo, who convened the meeting, echoed Atiku’s sentiments, affirming that the former vice president remains a key political figure, regardless of party affiliations.

PDP Leaders in Tinubu’s Government Clarify Allegations

Amidst recent controversies, Lere Olayinka, the Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication and Social Media to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, clarified that PDP leaders in President Bola Tinubu’s government serve the Nigerian government—not the All Progressives Congress (APC). This clarification came after the FCT Administration revoked land belonging to the PDP and other top politicians due to non-payment of ground rent for the past 20 years.

Naija News reports that the PDP’s National Secretariat was among the 4,794 affected properties. Olayinka emphasized during an appearance on Arise Television’s Morning Show that Wike carries out his duties without bias or preferential treatment. This stance underscores the minister’s commitment to transparency and fairness, regardless of political affiliations.

Asari Dokubo Makes a U-Turn on Tinubu Support

In a surprising twist, the Da-Amakiri Tubo and Amanyanabo of the Elem Kalabari Kingdom, Asari Dokubo, declared his unwavering support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Naija News recalls that Dokubo had previously accused President Tinubu of betrayal following the 2023 elections. In a viral video, he claimed he emptied his bank account to campaign for Tinubu but felt abandoned afterward. Dokubo even vowed not to work with the Yoruba people again, instead proposing new alliances with the north.

However, in a recent video, Dokubo reversed his stance, stating that he cannot abandon Tinubu because the president stood by him during challenging times. This change of heart highlights the complex dynamics of political loyalty and personal relationships in Nigerian politics.

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Justice Egwuatu Steps Aside in Natasha Akpoti’s Case

Justice Obiora Egwuatu of the Federal High Court in Abuja has withdrawn from hearing the suit filed by suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. This decision came following a petition from Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, questioning the judge’s impartiality in the matter. The case, originally scheduled for hearing, took an unexpected turn when Justice Egwuatu announced his recusal in a brief ruling. He stated that the case file would be returned to the Chief Judge for reassignment to another judge.

Naija News reports that this development follows ongoing legal proceedings surrounding disciplinary actions against Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan. On March 4, Justice Egwuatu issued an interim order halting the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions from proceeding with disciplinary actions against the senator, who was accused of violating legislative rules. Akpabio’s legal team challenged the court’s authority to intervene in internal Senate affairs, adding another layer of complexity to the case.

Presidency Warns Peter Obi Over Remarks on Democracy

A statement by Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, at the Emeka Ihedioha Colloquium has sparked controversy, drawing criticism from Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy. Obi lamented the state of governance in Nigeria, declaring that democracy had collapsed. He pointed to the suspension of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara by the state assembly as evidence of failing democratic institutions.

Onanuga dismissed Obi’s comments as exaggerated and misleading, arguing that while Nigeria faces challenges, describing its democracy as collapsed is overly dramatic. This exchange highlights the ongoing debate over the state of democracy in Nigeria and the differing perspectives on its current trajectory.

Onanuga Accuses Obasanjo of Hypocrisy

Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to President Tinubu, accused former President Olusegun Obasanjo of hypocrisy over allegations that members of the 10th National Assembly accepted bribes to approve the state of emergency in Rivers State. Onanuga emphasized that Obasanjo would be remembered as the man who introduced bribery into the fourth republic. This accusation adds another layer to the ongoing political discourse, reflecting the tensions between political figures and their historical legacies.

Cynthia Morgan Calls for Economic Relief

Nigerian singer Cynthia Morgan has urged Nigerians to appeal to the President Bola Tinubu-led administration for measures to alleviate economic hardships. The musician admitted she applauded President Tinubu for removing the subsidy on petrol but now finds the resulting economic strain unbearable. Morgan suggested that Nigerians might need to resort to a “begging challenge” to plead with the government to address the situation. This highlights the ongoing economic challenges faced by many Nigerians and the growing public discontent.

Jide Kosoko Reflects on Polygamy

Veteran Nollywood actor Jide Kosoko clarified his polygamous marriage during a recent episode of The Honest Bunch podcast. He explained that his marriages to four women did not happen simultaneously, as he was married to two women who passed away before marrying two others. Kosoko attributed the harmony in his polygamous family to mutual understanding among his wives and children. However, he emphasized that he does not advocate polygamy, noting that not everyone can achieve the same level of success in such arrangements.

Super Eagles Stumble Against Zimbabwe in World Cup Qualifier

The Super Eagles of Nigeria faced a tough challenge in their 6th 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier, drawing 1-1 against Zimbabwe at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo. Despite a star-studded lineup featuring Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, the Nigerian team struggled to break through Zimbabwe’s resilient defense. The first half ended without a goal, leaving fans anxious for the second half.

In the 74th minute, Osimhen’s low header finally gave the Super Eagles the lead. However, Zimbabwe stunned the hosts by equalizing in the 90th minute through Tawanda Chirewa. Despite five additional minutes, the Super Eagles couldn’t regain the lead, resulting in a disappointing draw. This match underscores the challenges the team faces in their quest for World Cup qualification.

That’s the Wrap for Today’s Headlines. Stay Tuned for More Updates!

Thanks for joining us for today’s news roundup on Naija News. We’ll be back tomorrow with more stories that matter to you. Until then, keep it real and stay informed!