Good Morning, Nigeria! Here's What's Happening Today, Saturday, 23rd March, 2025

Critical Call for Action: Afenifere Demands State of Emergency in Southwestern Nigeria

Listen up, Nigeria. The Afenifere National Youth Council (AYC) is ringing the alarm bells over the escalating wave of violence and kidnappings that's gripping the southwestern part of the country. These aren't just random incidents we're talking about here—this is a full-blown crisis, and the group is urging President Bola Tinubu to take immediate action by declaring a state of emergency. They believe this drastic measure is necessary to curb the rising tide of insecurity that's threatening lives and livelihoods.

Naija News has learned that the call comes from Prince Eniola Ojajuni, the President of the AYC, who recently experienced the horror of kidnapping firsthand. Just last month, he was abducted in Akunnu, Ondo State. Now, speaking on behalf of the group, he's sent a formal letter to the president, painting a grim picture of the situation. "The Southwest, once a beacon of peace and prosperity, is now a hotbed of criminal activity," Ojajuni writes. "People are living in fear, and our farmers can't even tend to their fields without risking their lives."

The letter continues, emphasizing the urgency of the matter: "I write to you with deep pain and urgency regarding the worsening state of insecurity in the Southwest, particularly in Ondo State. Kidnapping attacks have escalated to alarming levels, leaving citizens in constant fear for their lives and livelihoods." The AYC insists that immediate intervention is needed to restore peace and security to the region.

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PDP Chieftain Clears Air on Wike's Allegiance

Now let's shift gears a bit. Dan Orbih, the National Vice-Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), wants to clear up some confusion. He's telling everyone loud and clear that Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, is working for Nigerians—not the APC. This statement comes after some chatter suggesting Wike might be secretly working against his former party.

Naija News reports that Orbih made this clarification during an interview in Abuja. He explained that Wike sought and received permission from the relevant organs of the PDP before joining President Tinubu's administration. "This whole notion that Wike is working against the PDP is nothing more than mischief," Orbih stated firmly. He emphasized that Wike's role in the current government shouldn't be a point of contention unless someone is trying to stir up trouble.

Apolitical Feud: Kwankwaso Slams Atiku, El-Rufai

Over in Kano, Musa Illiyasu Kwankwaso, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), is calling out some big names in Nigerian politics. He's labeling former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, and NNPP leader Rabiu Kwankwaso as self-centered figures with little to no political influence heading into the 2027 elections. Kwankwaso argues that their coalition lacks the strength to make any significant impact.

Speaking to reporters in Kano, Illiyasu minced no words. "Let’s take them one by one. Look at Kwankwaso—what has he got to offer? He always hides behind the success of others to remain relevant. Just see what he is doing to Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State," he remarked. Kwankwaso accused the trio of prioritizing personal interests over the needs of their supporters, suggesting that their coalition is more about self-preservation than genuine political progress.

Shekarau: Atiku, El-Rufai Coalition Can't Compete with APC in 2027

Former Kano State Governor Mallam Ibrahim Shekarau is chiming in on the political scene, asserting that the opposition coalition led by Atiku Abubakar and Nasir El-Rufai lacks the structure and backing to challenge the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the upcoming 2027 elections. While welcoming the idea of unity among opposition forces, Shekarau insists that the current coalition falls short of what's needed to take on the ruling party.

In a statement, Shekarau pointed out that unlike the APC, which was formed through the merger of established parties, the present coalition is merely a collection of individuals. "The coming together of some senior members of opposition parties is a welcome development, as seen recently under what they call a 'coalition' of opposition parties. But unfortunately, most people do not realize that this so-called coalition has nothing to do with the major opposition parties; PDP and LP," he explained.

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Shekarau believes that without the backing of established parties, the coalition simply can't pose a credible threat to the APC. The former governor urged the opposition to rethink their strategy if they hope to make a meaningful impact in the next election cycle.

NGF Speaks on Fubara's Suspension Amid Rivers State Turmoil

The Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF) has stepped in to clarify its stance on President Bola Tinubu's declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State. While acknowledging the situation, the forum emphasized that its primary role is to promote unified policies and foster sustainable development across the country. In other words, they're not here to pick sides.

Abdulateef Shittu, Director General of the NGF, issued a statement explaining that the forum doesn't engage in divisive partisan issues. "Taking positions on divisive partisan issues, regardless of how it’s phrased, reflects a poor understanding of history," Shittu remarked. He added that the NGF remains committed to addressing the root causes of instability and promoting peaceful resolutions.

Rivers State has been caught in a political tug-of-war for nearly two years now, with a bitter feud between former Governor Nyesom Wike and his successor, Siminalayi Fubara. This ongoing conflict led President Tinubu to declare a state of emergency earlier this week, suspending Governor Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and the entire state House of Assembly for six months. Retired Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas was appointed as the Sole Administrator to oversee the state during this period.

While refraining from direct commentary on the state of emergency, the NGF urged the public to trust the crisis management measures in place and expressed confidence that appropriate platforms will be used to address the situation.

House of Reps Denies Bribery Claims Over Rivers State Emergency

The House of Representatives is pushing back hard against allegations that members were bribed with $5,000 each to approve President Bola Tinubu's request for a state of emergency in Rivers State. Deputy spokesman Hon. Philip Agbese (Benue, APC) described the claims as false and malicious, labeling them as originating "from the pit of hell."

Naija News reports that Agbese addressed the issue during an interview in Abuja, where he dismissed the accusations as baseless. The claims surfaced after the House passed the resolution on Thursday, which resulted in the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his administration. "The allegation that members of the House of Representatives were induced with $5,000 to pass a resolution is unfair to the Parliament. Very, very unfair to the Parliament," Agbese emphasized.

He stressed that the decision was driven by a genuine desire to restore peace and stability to Rivers State, asserting that patriotism guided the lawmakers' actions. Agbese urged the public to focus on the bigger picture and recognize the importance of addressing the underlying issues in the state.

Ezekwesili Blasts National Assembly Over Akpabio Investigation

Former Minister of Education, Obiageli Ezekwesili, is firing shots at the National Assembly for failing to properly investigate the sexual harassment allegations against Senate President Godswill Akpabio. She lamented that the Senate's refusal to allow an independent probe has brought shame to Nigerians and highlighted the systemic issues plaguing the political environment.

Ezekwesili expressed her frustration in response to a recent article by The Economist, which described Nigerian politics as a harsh and unwelcoming space for women. "Here’s @TheEconomist in yet another post on the shame brought upon Nigeria and Nigerians by @Senator_Akpabio @NGRSenate by their brazen refusal to provide an opportunity for an independent investigation and open/ transparent public hearing by a Specially Constituted Committee of the Nigerian Senate," she wrote on X.

She criticized the Senate's handling of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan's case, calling it a "Kangaroo process of injustice." Instead of addressing the allegations, the Senate has reportedly embarked on a smear campaign against Akpoti-Uduaghan and even attempted to bribe her constituents to recall her. Ezekwesili described the lawmakers as "a bunch of nation-destroyers" who operate with impunity, stifling democracy.

WAEC Releases 2025 CB-WASSCE Results for Private Candidates

Good news for students! The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has announced the release of results for the 2025 First Series of the Computer-Based West African Senior School Certificate Examination (CB-WASSCE) for private candidates. The council made the announcement via its official X handle, bringing relief to anxious students across the region.

"The results of the Computer-based West African Senior School Certificate Examination (CB-WASSCE) for Private Candidates, 2025-First Series have been released," WAEC stated. Further details on the results, including performance breakdowns and statistics, are expected to be provided in the coming days. Students are encouraged to check their results through the official WAEC portal.

Tribute to a Boxing Legend: George Foreman Passes Away

The world of boxing is mourning the loss of a true legend. George Foreman, the heavyweight champion known for his incredible power and resilience, has passed away at the age of 76. Nicknamed "Big George," Foreman left an indelible mark on the sport, winning an Olympic gold medal in 1968 and securing the world heavyweight title twice—an achievement spanning over two decades.

Foreman's career was nothing short of remarkable. His second title, won at the age of 45, made him the oldest heavyweight champion in history. Despite losing to Muhammad Ali in the iconic "Rumble in the Jungle" in 1974, Foreman's legacy remains unshaken. His professional record boasts 76 wins, 68 of which were by knockout—nearly double the number of Ali's knockouts.

But Foreman's influence extended far beyond the ring. He became a household name through his business ventures, most notably the George Foreman Grill, which became a global success. His decision to lend his name to the product proved highly profitable, surpassing his earnings from boxing. Foreman's legacy as both a fighter and a businessman will continue to inspire generations to come.

Farewell to a Nollywood Icon: Nkechi Nweje Passes Away

The Nollywood community is in mourning after the sudden passing of veteran actress Nkechi Nweje. Her colleague, Stanley Ontop, broke the news via his Instagram page, expressing his shock and sorrow. "Nollywood in tears as we lost one of our vibrant Nollywood actresses @nkechi.nweje After a brief illness. I couldn’t post since morning because it was like a dream. Ezigbo Nwanyi Onitsha," Ontop wrote, paying tribute to his dear friend and mentor.

Naija News reports that Nkechi's passing has left a void in the industry,