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Singapore To Hold Election On May 3

By
Mary Oluwabamise
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Singapore’s election commission has announced that the country will hold a national election on May 3. This comes as concerns grow over the rising cost of living and possible recession linked to U.S. tariffs.

This will be the first major election for Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, who took over from long-time leader Lee Hsien Loong as head of the People’s Action Party (PAP) in May 2024.

“We are witnessing profound changes in the world. It is becoming more uncertain, unsettled and even unstable. The global conditions that enabled Singapore’s success over the past decades may no longer hold,” Wong said on social media.

“That is why I have called this General Election. At this critical juncture, Singaporeans should decide on the team to lead our nation, and to chart our way forward together.”

The PAP is expected to keep its majority in parliament, as it has in every election since Singapore’s independence in 1965. Still, analysts will closely watch the party’s share of the popular vote after it had its weakest showing in the 2020 elections.

The vote comes during a time of economic pressure. U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariffs have created uncertainty for Singapore’s trade-reliant economy. On Monday, the government lowered its growth forecast for 2025 to between 0% and 2%, from the previous estimate of 1% to 3%.

Prime Minister Wong has said the 10% base tariffs from the U.S. seem to be final, warning that they could cause job losses if companies choose to move operations to the U.S.

The ruling party has faced more competition in recent years. The opposition gained six seats in both the 2011 and 2015 elections, and added ten more in 2020.

This year’s election will include four more seats than in 2020. Voters will elect 97 lawmakers: 15 from single-member districts and the rest from group constituencies with four or five members each.

Wong is expected to introduce over 30 new candidates, marking the largest refresh of the party’s lineup under a new prime minister. These candidates will be officially announced on nomination day, April 23.

In February, Wong announced a national budget that analysts have described as “a full-blown election budget,” offering benefits for all Singaporeans ahead of the vote.

Nigeria Gazettes ECOWAS Tariff Schedule to Boost Trade Under AfCFTA

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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The Federal Government has officially gazetted and submitted the ECOWAS tariff schedule for trade in goods under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to the ECOWAS Secretariat.

The announcement was made by the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, in a statement released in Abuja on Tuesday.

She said this step is an important milestone in Nigeria’s regional trade integration efforts and comes just ahead of the 16th meeting of the AfCFTA Council of Ministers in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo.

Dr. Oduwole explained that the agreement allows for zero duties on 90% of tariff lines, which helps Nigeria stay competitive and opens up new trade opportunities across the continent.

“Nigerian goods are now competitively positioned in the African market, ensuring greater business access and profitability.

“President Bola Tinubu signed the ECOWAS Schedule of Tariff Offers, which reinforces Nigeria’s commitment to regional trade expansion.

“This step under the AfCFTA framework strengthens Nigeria’s role in shaping the future of intra-African trade and boosting export competitiveness.

“Furthermore, it enables the seamless shipment of goods to and from Nigeria, unlocking new opportunities for businesses, manufacturers, and exporters.

“Implications of Nigeria’s ECOWAS Tariff offer the gazetting of the schedule of tariff concessions is expected to yield significant benefits,” she said.

The Minister added that the agreement will support economic growth and job creation by lowering trade barriers. It will also build stronger economic ties in the region and help Nigerian Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) cut costs and expand into new markets.

“Furthermore, Nigeria’s commitment to AfCFTA implementation makes it an attractive destination for foreign and intra-African investment, reinforcing its role as a trade hub in West Africa.

“However, stronger engagement is required from African Trade Ministers to address other types of barriers, including non-tariff barriers that could hinder market access.

“Additionally, improving productive capacity and ensuring compliance with international standards remain imperative to maximise the benefits of the AfCFTA.

“Nigeria is open for business. The gazetting and transmission of the ECOWAS schedule of tariffs to the AfCFTA Secretariat signals Nigeria’s readiness for trade under the agreement.”

Dr. Oduwole said this milestone allows Nigerian exporters to enjoy preferential tariff access in African markets, helping Nigeria strengthen its position in regional and global trade.

She also said the move shows Nigeria’s commitment to using Africa’s single market to drive economic growth.

“After initiating its first shipment under AfCFTA in July 2024, Nigeria has solidified its leadership in regional trade and integration with the formal gazetting of the schedule of tariffs for trade in goods.

“This is to ensure that Nigerian goods can access other markets competitively and profitably.”

“This reciprocal trade arrangement aligns with the directive of the 35th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the African Union in February 2022.

“As a result, other AfCFTA State Parties can now accept consignments from Nigeria under the Agreement.

“Under its preferred classification, Nigeria’s tariff reductions for trade in goods follow a phased approach over 10 years beginning in 2021.

“By 2025, the fifth year of AfCFTA implementation, a 50 per cent tariff reduction on NGN, implemented at a rate of 10 per cent per year, should immediately affect goods in trade with least developed countries in Africa.

“For trade with developing countries on the continent, Nigeria retains the flexibility of complete tariff elimination (0 per cent) effectively immediately under AfCFTA, applying a 20 per cent reduction annually.”

She also referenced Nigeria’s leadership role in digital trade, which was recognized earlier this year.

“The gazetting announcement follows the AfCFTA digital trade mandate announced in February in Addis Ababa.

“The President, however, received a commendation for his work on digital trade, further reinforcing the country’s commitment to regional and continental trade integration.

“As a digital trade co-champion, Nigeria is advancing seamless trade facilitation and cross-border commerce, ensuring businesses—especially SMEs—can fully benefit from AfCFTA’s framework,” she said.

Tinubu Orders Action as Fresh Plateau Attack Claims 51 Lives

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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President Bola Tinubu has condemned the latest attack in Plateau State and asked the state’s leaders to find a lasting solution to the ongoing communal violence.

This comes after gunmen killed at least 51 people and injured many others in the early hours of Monday in Zikke and Kakpa communities in Bassa Local Government Area. The incident happened just two weeks after a similar attack left dozens dead.

According to the National Emergency Management Agency, gunmen killed 52 people and displaced nearly 2,000 last week in different parts of the state. Plateau has often seen clashes between farmers and cattle herders.

Residents reported that 51 bodies were found in Zikke and Kimakpa villages, with several more people injured. The cause of the attack is still unknown.

“We cannot continue to allow this devastation and these tit-for-tat attacks. Enough is enough,” Tinubu said in a statement released Monday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.

The statement, titled “President Tinubu Condemns Latest Attack in Plateau, Charges Governor Mutfwang to Resolve Underlying Communal Issues,” calls for immediate efforts to stop the violence.

Tinubu expressed sadness over the killings and offered condolences to Governor Caleb Mutfwang and the people of Plateau State.

He said, “The ongoing violence between communities in Plateau State, rooted in misunderstandings between different ethnic and religious groups, must cease.”

The President asked Governor Mutfwang to address the deeper issues behind the conflict.

“Beyond dealing with the criminal elements of these incessant killings, the political leadership in Plateau State, led by Governor Caleb Mutfwang, must address the root cause of this age-long problem.

“These problems have been with us for more than two decades. We can no longer ignore the underlying issues.

“It is time to tackle them fairly and find a lasting solution. I have discussed these problems with the governor over time and offered suggestions for lasting peace,” he added.

Tinubu urged community, religious, and political leaders to join forces to end the cycle of revenge attacks.

He said, “I have instructed security agencies to thoroughly investigate this crisis and identify those responsible for orchestrating these violent acts.”

He also reaffirmed the Federal Government’s support for Plateau State in efforts to promote peace and unity.

“The Federal Government remains committed to supporting Governor Mutfwang and the Plateau State government in promoting dialogue, fostering social cohesion, and ensuring accountability—crucial steps towards permanently resolving the conflict in Plateau,” he said.

A youth leader, Joseph Chudu, confirmed the attack from Jos. He said gunmen entered the communities at midnight, shooting and burning houses.

Chudu said, “The attack lasted for more than one hour. Many who sustained injuries have been evacuated to the Jos University Teaching Hospital. Please, we need blood for the injured.”

Amnesty International Nigeria also responded to the attack.

“The inexcusable security lapses that enabled this horrific attack, two weeks after the killing of 52 people, must be investigated,” the group said in a statement, adding that homes were also looted and burned during the violence.

Plateau State, located in Nigeria’s Middle Belt, is home to many ethnic and religious groups. Violence in the state is often blamed on conflict between Muslim herders and mostly Christian farmers, though shrinking grazing land and climate change have also contributed.

Youths Condemn Attacks

The Berom Youth Moulders Association (BYM) called on the Federal Government to label Fulani militants as a terrorist group following repeated attacks in Plateau communities.

The group condemned recent killings in Hurti, Bokkos, Irigwe Kimakpa, and the Monday attack on Zikke and Kakpa.

In a statement issued in Jos, signed by National President Solomon Mwantiri and General Secretary Bature Adazaram, the BYM said:
“The BYM is deeply saddened by the systematic and premeditated killings of innocent residents in Bokkos and Bassa. The latest bloodbath, which occurred last night, April 12, 2025, claimed the lives of at least 50 innocent villagers, including women and children, in Bassa LGA. These attacks, carried out without any justification, have left the defenseless population in fear.”

“According to information available to us, the armed Fulani militants, who attacked Kimakpa and Zike villages of Kwall in Iriggwe Chiefdom last night, at about 8pm of Sunday was carried out while Plateau State is yet to recover from the genocide meted out on villages of Hurti community, Bokkos LGA on the 2nd April, 2025 which is unarguably an act of terrorism that confirms a virally circulated video credited to the terror actors, who vowed to make the security situation unbearable in the state.”

The group also called on lawmakers to pass laws that would allow citizens to carry arms for self-defense.

Troops Rescue 16 Kidnapped Passengers

Meanwhile, troops from the 3 Division of the Nigerian Army and Operation Safe Haven rescued 16 passengers who were kidnapped along the Jos–Mangu road.

The rescue took place around 9pm on Sunday after troops found an abandoned vehicle at Mararaban Kantoma in Mangu Local Government Area.

In a statement on Monday, the spokesman for Operation Safe Haven, Major Samson Zhakom, said troops searched the nearby bushes after finding the vehicle and discovered the kidnapped passengers.

He said the kidnappers opened fire on the troops, but they were overpowered.

The statement read:
“Troops of 3 Division Nigerian Army and Operation Safe Haven (OPSH) have rescued 16 passengers kidnapped along Jos–Mangu road in Plateau State. The rescue operation began when troops conducting Operation LAFIYAN JAMA’A discovered an empty vehicle abandoned by the roadside at Mararaban Kantoma in Mangu Local Government Area of the state at about 9pm local time on 13 April 2025.

“The troops immediately searched the nearby bushes to trace the occupants of the vehicle suspected to have been kidnapped. The kidnappers, on sighting the troops, opened fire, but our troops overwhelmed the criminals with superior firepower forcing them to abandon the victims and flee. Troops exploited the general area and rescued all 16 abducted passengers, which included six children.

“Troops administered first aid to some of the rescued victims who sustained minor injuries during the incident. Thereafter, troops escorted the victims to safety to continue their journey to Jos metropolis. Meanwhile, troops are on the lookout for the fleeing kidnappers suspected to have sustained gunshot wounds during the encounter.”

Iraq Sandstorm Leaves Over 1,000 People With Breathing Problems

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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Iraq’s health officials reported that over 1,000 people were treated for suffocation after a severe sandstorm hit southern provinces.

More than 1,000 people have been treated for respiratory problems after a sandstorm blanketed central and southern Iraq, according to health authorities.

At least 700 cases of suffocation were recorded in Muthanna province alone, an official told AFP, as the country grappled with power cuts, grounded flights, and reduced visibility brought on by thick orange haze.

Footage circulating on social media showed skies turning orange and streets deserted as visibility dropped to under one kilometre (0.62 miles). Pedestrians and police officers donned face masks, while paramedics treated those struggling to breathe on the streets.

Hospitals in Najaf province treated over 250 patients, while 322 people, including children, sought medical assistance in Diwaniyah. In Dhi Qar and Basra, a combined total of 530 people were affected.

The storm also disrupted travel, forcing the closure of airports in Najaf and Basra, local media reported. Weather officials say conditions are expected to improve by Tuesday morning.

Dust storms are a frequent hazard in Iraq, but scientists warn they are becoming more frequent and intense due to climate change.

The UN ranks Iraq among the five countries most vulnerable to climate impacts, including rising temperatures, desertification, and worsening water scarcity. A similar sandstorm in 2022 left one person dead and over 5,000 needing treatment for breathing difficulties.

Iraq’s environment ministry has warned that the country could see an increase in “dust days” in the coming years.

FG Pushes to Stop N200bn Solar Panel Imports

By
Mary Oluwabamise
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The Federal Government has restated its plan to stop the importation of photovoltaic (PV) solar panels, which has cost Nigeria about N200 billion so far.

This was revealed by the Managing Director and CEO of the Rural Electrification Agency (REA), Abba Aliyu, during a roundtable meeting in Victoria Island between the REA and the Lagos State Government.

The meeting followed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the REA and Lagos State to bring electricity to rural communities in the state.

Aliyu said the goal is to shift from importing solar equipment to producing them locally.

He said, “Over N200bn has been spent on the importation of PV panels into the country. While there is a need for that importation, one of the key things our agency is striving for is domesticating the manufacturing of this renewable equipment. Lagos, being the centre of excellence, is going to lead a total war in that domestication.”

He added that some progress has already been made, including the setup of a solar panel manufacturing plant in Ikotun, Lagos.

“There was a PV panel manufacturing assembly plant in Ikotun, Lagos. They started with 10 megawatts, but with the collaboration with REA, they have moved and increased their capacity to an additional 100 megawatts,” he said.

Aliyu also shared that the REA is working on a joint development agreement with Green World for a lithium battery assembly plant in Lagos, a project valued at $150 million.

Minister of Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, also confirmed the government’s support for local solar panel production while moving to limit imports.

“With NASENI here, you know that we have panels. It has a factory that has started producing solar panels, and other private individuals are also producing solar panels as we speak. So, all we need to do is, even through science and technology, through our Presidential Executive Order No. 5, we will stop all these importations of solar panels. We will support our local industries to grow,” he said.

However, the Renewable Energy Association of Nigeria (REAN) expressed concern, saying solar energy is crucial for many Nigerians who don’t have access to the national grid.

“Businesses, communities, and individuals rely on solar solutions to power homes, schools, hospitals, and enterprises. The renewable energy sector has grown significantly, attracting investment and fostering innovation. A ban on solar imports, without first strengthening local production capabilities, risks derailing this progress,” the REAN stated.

Tinubu Declares National Emergency on Food Security

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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President Bola Tinubu on Monday declared a national emergency on food security, calling for the expansion of irrigation infrastructure and inclusive water resource management across the country.

He made this declaration while inaugurating the 6th African Regional Conference on Irrigation and Drainage in Abuja. The President was represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume.

He encouraged African countries to embrace innovative strategies to tackle the continent’s irrigation and water management challenges.

Describing the conference theme, “Tackling Irrigation Development and Water Management Crisis in Africa,” Tinubu referred to it as a rallying call for advancing sustainable agriculture and building economic resilience.

“Africa continues to face major challenges in unlocking its irrigation potential due to inadequate infrastructure, financial constraints, climate change, and governance issues.
This conference offers a vital platform for us to collectively chart a path forward,” he said.

According to him, Nigeria has over 3.1 million hectares of irrigable land situated around key river basins such as the Niger and Benue.

Meanwhile, the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, highlighted the government’s achievements under the Transforming Irrigation Management in Nigeria (TRIMING) project.

He further stated that its follow-up initiative, the Sustainable Power and Irrigation for Nigeria (SPIN) project, is set to close existing gaps and maximise the economic value of water to enhance food security.

“With the TRIMING project winding down, Nigeria is poised to begin implementation of the SPIN project in partnership with the World Bank.
This initiative will consolidate on the successes of TRIMING and expand our irrigation potential,” Utsev said.

The minister noted that the TRIMING project, which lasted over seven years, resulted in key milestones such as the completion of the Dadin-Kowa and Bakolori irrigation schemes and the near-completion of the Middle Rima Valley irrigation project.

He added that the project also supported ongoing efforts in Ondo, Kwara, Benue, Kebbi, Edo, Adamawa, and Oyo states.

Further achievements included the establishment of Water Users Associations, creation of farmer management centres, and strengthened market linkages in vital value chains like rice and tomato.

Utsev also revealed that more than 153,000 hectares of irrigable land had been developed by River Basin Development Authorities, with partial commercialisation efforts underway to attract private sector investment.

He mentioned the 2025 Flood Outlook and Risk Management Strategy, which aims to reduce the agricultural impact of floods.

“This conference is a platform for knowledge exchange, innovation, and collective commitment to resolving Africa’s pressing irrigation and water management issues,” he added.

The Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Dr Didi Wilson-Jack, called for a renewed sense of duty across all levels of government to safeguard national food security.

Former Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Water Resources, Mr Godknows Igali, stressed the need for strategic planning to respond to the pressures of Nigeria’s rising population.

He emphasised the value of skilled staffing and efficient river basin management, while calling for more involvement from sub-national governments in managing water resources and food systems.

Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State expressed concern about how climate change is reducing the length of farming seasons. He warned that erratic rainfall patterns are increasing uncertainty for farmers.

“Our fertile lands are turning to dust. Irrigation is now a necessity, not a luxury.
Innovation must not be seen as a privilege of the few; we must empower women and youth who are at the frontline of agriculture,” Zulum said.

He urged development partners to respond more effectively to challenges related to water access and rural agriculture in Africa.

President of the International Commission on Irrigation and Drainage, Dr Marco Arcieri, described the gathering as timely and crucial.

“This could be a turning point. We’ve celebrated big ideas and set tangible goals to confront the pressing challenges.
We remain committed to supporting Africa as it faces population growth and climate stress,” Arcieri stated.

It’s worth noting that he had earlier spoken at the Young Professionals’ Forum, a pre-conference session that brought together young leaders in irrigation and water management across Africa.

Arcieri stressed the critical role that emerging professionals will play in advancing sustainable water solutions across the continent.

Mr Ibrahim Musa, Chair of the African Regional Working Group, expressed hope that the conference would yield creative solutions and practical steps to address Africa’s distinct irrigation needs.

The conference continues in Abuja until April 17, featuring technical workshops, policy discussions, and visits to irrigation projects across Nigeria.

Seun Kuti Lights Up Coachella 2025 with Electrifying Afrobeat Set

By
Mary Oluwabamise
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Renowned Afrobeat artist Seun Kuti delivered a powerful performance at the 2025 edition of Coachella, one of the world’s biggest music festivals.

Known for its global appeal, Coachella draws thousands of music lovers annually to experience top-tier performances from international stars. Seun Kuti, who made history in 2012 as the first Nigerian artist to perform at the festival, returned this year with his legendary band, Egypt 80.

The Grammy-nominated musician opened the festival with a headlining performance, setting the tone ahead of pop icon Lady Gaga’s set. This marks Seun Kuti’s third appearance at Coachella, making him the Nigerian artist with the highest number of performances at the festival to date.

Other Nigerian artists who have performed on the iconic stage include Burna Boy, Wizkid, Tems, Fireboy, Ckay, and DJ Spinall. Rising star Rema is also expected to take the stage this year.

Peter Okoye Testifies Against Brother Jude in ₦1.38 Billion Fraud Case

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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The Federal High Court in Lagos has begun hearing a case against Jude Okoye, former manager of the music duo P-Square, who is accused of money laundering involving ₦1.38 billion, $1 million, and £34,537.59.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has filed seven counts against Jude and his company, Northside Music Limited, related to alleged financial misconduct.

On April 14, 2025, Peter Okoye, one half of P-Square and Jude’s younger brother, appeared as the EFCC’s first witness. He told the court that disputes over the group’s finances surfaced after P-Square’s 2017 breakup and 2021 reunion.

Peter alleged that Jude had sole control over the duo’s accounts at Ecobank, Zenith Bank, and FCMB, acting as the only signatory. This arrangement, he claimed, led to a lack of transparency, including Jude’s sudden decision to halt funding for Peter’s personal housing project in Ikoyi, Lagos, without explanation.

A central charge accuses Jude and Northside Music Limited of purchasing a property in 2022 at No. 5 Tony Eromosele Street, Parkview Estate, Ikoyi, valued at ₦850 million, with funds the EFCC alleges were proceeds of illegal activities. Another count claims Jude used a bureau de change to convert $1,019,762.87 into naira and funneled it into various accounts to obscure its source, violating the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.

Peter testified that he uncovered Northside Music Limited, a company allegedly established by Jude and his wife without his or his twin brother Paul’s involvement. He stated that Jude’s wife held 80% of the shares and Jude 20%, and that the company was used to siphon P-Square’s royalties.

When Peter requested financial statements, he said Jude and bank officials refused access, with a Zenith Bank officer reportedly stating that only a court order would release the records. Peter also alleged that Jude manipulated royalty data, causing a potential buyer to slash an $8,000 offer for P-Square’s music catalogue to $500.

Jude has pleaded not guilty to all charges. The trial, overseen by Justice Alexander Owoeye, has been adjourned to June 4, 2025, for Peter’s cross-examination.

Rivers State Judiciary: The Situation So Far

By
Mana Balagbogbo
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A Chief Magistrate has become the second high-ranking official to resign from the Rivers State government following the declaration of a state of emergency. This follows the earlier resignation of George Nweke, the former Head of Service.

The Chief Magistrate, Ejike King George, attributed his resignation to discomfort with what he described as “quasi-military rule” now governing the state.

In a letter dated April 11, 2025, written from his office at the Rivers State High Court Complex on Nnamdi Azikiwe Road, Port Harcourt, and addressed to the Chief Judge of the Rivers State Judiciary, King George announced his voluntary retirement. The letter was sent via the Secretary of the Rivers State Judicial Service Commission and titled “Voluntary Retirement from Service.”

“This present letter is intended to convey my decision to voluntarily retire from my appointment as a Magistrate of the Judiciary of Rivers State,” he wrote.

“This difficult and regrettable decision is informed largely by my discomfort with the recent appointment of a quasi-military administration to run the affairs of a modern State like ours.”

He added: “My lord will agree with me that this type of governance system is not only alien but also runs antithetical to our hallowed profession as legal practitioners and adjudicators.”

Having served 16 years of his 22-year legal career as a Magistrate in Rivers State under several democratic governments, King George explained: “I find it difficult to work with the current setting, as doing so would amount to a tacit and naïve acquiescence.”
“Thanks, My lord, for the opportunity to serve,” he concluded.

His resignation follows that of George Nweke, whose sudden exit made headlines after a viral video surfaced. In the footage, Nweke accused suspended governor Siminalayi Fubara and his chief of staff, Edison Ehie, of being involved in the burning of the Rivers State House of Assembly.
The controversy has since escalated, leading to a N2 billion lawsuit filed in a state high court.

The For And Against Protest In Rivers State

Suspended Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has strongly criticized the Nigeria Police for what he described as their excessive response to protesters opposing the state of emergency in Ahoada East. He labeled the actions “double standards” and a threat to democratic rights.

This development comes amid rising political unrest in Rivers State, following President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency and the appointment of retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ette Ibas as the sole administrator.
Just three days after a group of women protested to demand Fubara’s reinstatement and an end to the emergency rule, two separate women’s groups staged new demonstrations in different areas of the state.

The first group, dressed entirely in white and allegedly aligned with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, maintained that the emergency rule is lawful.

The women began their march from Garrison Junction around 7:00 a.m. and arrived at Iseac Park in Port Harcourt City Local Council by 9:00 a.m.

During the protest, they chanted songs and carried placards with messages such as: ‘Emergency rule is constitutional,’ ‘Rivers women voted for you but you made us your slaves,’ ‘Investigate Fubara’s bloated contracts awards,’ ‘Say no to dictatorship,’ and ‘Rivers women need peace in our state.’

The march was led by former Commissioner for Social Welfare, Inime Aguma, a staunch Wike supporter who had previously resigned from the cabinet amid the intensifying crisis between Fubara and Wike.

The women dismissed claims that they were paid or hired to support the emergency rule, asserting that the regime has ushered in a period of relative peace in the state.

Meanwhile, another group of women from the Ekpeye region of Rivers also held a peaceful protest at Mbiama Junction on the East-West Road. This group opposed Fubara’s removal, calling it unconstitutional.

Dressed in black, these protesters also chanted songs, demanding Wike’s withdrawal from the state’s affairs. Their placards bore messages such as: ‘Ibas should leave us alone,’ ‘End to emergency rule in Rivers,’ and ‘Bring back our governor, bring back Sim.’

In a display of support for the emergency administration, Aguma commended the appointment of Vice Admiral Ibok-Ette Ibas (retd.) as Sole Administrator, stating that his leadership has ushered in peace and good governance in Rivers State.

Ibas Demands N300m Refund From NBA

Rivers State Administrator

Ibas has asked the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) to return the N300 million the Rivers State Government paid for the hosting rights of the 2025 Annual General Conference.

In a statement released in Port Harcourt through his media aide, Hector Igbikiowubo, Ibas said: “While we respect the NBA’s right to choose its conference venues, we find it curious that the association, despite its ‘principled position’, didn’t address the refund of the N300 million already paid by the Rivers State Government for the hosting rights of the 2025 conference.

“If the NBA truly stands on principle, it should demonstrate the same integrity by promptly returning these funds rather than benefiting from a state it now publicly discredits.

“We find the reasons cited for this decision shift in venue, particularly the insinuation that the Sole Administrator’s actions have undermined democracy and the rule of law to be misleading, uncharitable, and unbecoming of an association that prides itself on upholding justice and fairness.

“The NBA’s statement overlooks the constitutional basis for the current administration in Rivers State,” he added.

The NBA responded to Ibas’ request in a statement from Mr. Emeka Obegolu, SAN, Chairman of its Conference Planning Committee.

He said: “We wish to clarify that the decision to host the 2025 AGC in Port Harcourt was taken in August 2024 and was not subject of any bidding process or payment of any hosting rights.

“The host city has no hosting right and there is no representation by the NBA that the conference must be held in a chosen city.

“Traditionally, because of the enormous cost involved in hosting the AGC, NBA Conference Planning Committee approaches organisations, agencies of government and state governments for support, and the support requested for is unconditional and not tied to hosting rights or any rights whatsoever.

“The money from Rivers State was a gift and was not tied to any purported hosting right for the NBA AGC.

“We are committed to delivering a world-class conference to members of the Bar and will not be drawn into any unnecessary controversy over this issue.”

Why Is Cbex Trending In Nigeria?

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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0

In recent weeks, “Cbex” has surged across Nigerian social media platforms, drawing attention from hopeful investors and skeptical observers alike.
Since Friday, there have been concerns over the operations of the platform, with some users warning that it showed signs of being a Ponzi scheme.

The growing concerns followed the platform’s instability, with many users fearing that their money is now stuck.

What Is Cbex and Why Is It Trending?

Cbex presents itself as a digital investment platform, offering users the opportunity to earn large profits through cryptocurrency and forex trading. Cbex caught people’s attention by sharing flashy success stories and using a “bring-a-friend” system where users earn more by inviting others. This helped the platform spread like wildfire. For many Nigerians trying to escape the daily grind and make quick cash, the promise of fast, juicy profits felt like a lifeline. But behind the sweet talk, there’s little to no info about who’s really running the show or how the money is being managed — and that’s got financial experts and regulators seriously worried.

Is Cbex a Ponzi Scheme?

While Cbex has not been officially labeled a Ponzi scheme by Nigerian authorities, its operational model exhibits characteristics commonly associated with such fraudulent schemes.
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) of Nigeria has consistently warned the public about investment platforms that promise unrealistic returns without transparent business models.

Stories of Individuals Affected


Numerous Nigerians have shared their experiences with Cbex, many of which are cautionary tales.

@introvertdey on X says My neighbor gave his wife 1.2 million Naira. She put it in CBEX. He found out today and has been out of home since morning. She’s sad and doesn’t know what’s next.

Also @yeankhr on X said Cant even blame people who lost their money to Cbex. Everyone is trying to stay afloat in this country, it’s the mess we put ourselves in. If another one drops tomorrow, people will still rush it.

Similarly, an X user @wit_sender advised Dear Nigerians,I know the economy is a mess, but y’all should learn from this CBEX SCAM! Stop investing on any platform that comes with a trade like scheme, jeez how can you put your entire life worth on a platform you can’t hold anyone responsible for ?. These stories underscore the potential dangers of investing in unregulated platforms that lack accountability.

What Is the SEC Saying?

In a statement on Sunday, the SEC clarified that, in accordance with the ISA 2025 recently signed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, it is now an offence for any entity to operate an online forex trading platform or provide related services without prior registration with the commission.

The commissioner noted that “Under the newly enacted legislation, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is now empowered to regulate a broader scope of market activities as Section 3(3)(b) of the Act explicitly mandates the commission to “register and regulate securities exchanges, commodity exchanges, virtual and digital asset exchanges, and other market venues.”
 

Earlier, the commissioner had said promoters and operators of Ponzi schemes, under the new law, face a jail term of 10 years or more and a minimum fine of N20 million

When it comes to money-making platforms like this, it’s super important not to dive in headfirst. A little homework and healthy doubt can save you from big regrets. Staying sharp and asking the right questions could be the difference between growing your money and kissing it goodbye.

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