society
BREAKING THE CAMEL’S BACK! By Zailani Bappa
The great people of Bakura have finally spoken. It is the voice awaited nationwide to decide who owns Zamfara politics today. It all started like a teaser. The Bye-election in Bakura Constituency slated for end of last October was ordinary to the ordinary Zamfara person. It is one of 24 such unit elections in the state in terms of Democratic representation.
However, every cloth has its own tailor. The People’s Democratic Party in the State had the seat before it’s representative died. (May his soul rest in perfect peace). In ordinary parlance, the election to fill into the vacant position is best left for the people of that unit to decide without a political fuss. But that’s not how it was allowed to be. It was inadvertently catapulted into an object of statewide show political prowess, drawing a national face to it by the All People’s Congress in the state.
Yes, as the build up to the elections gathered, which was later re-scheduled to the first week of December, the APC, led by former Governor Abdulazeez Yari bounced from surface to the gutter, drawing the attention of the World to this election in utmost confidence of winning the competition. It was an opportunity for them to show the world that the APC was still in control of the State political terrain. After all, they say, the PDP did not win the election but was in power by the fiat of the Court verdict. It was an opportunity granted by God to show the World that the APC holds the four aces and will still win an election anytime in Zamfara State.
As the campaign to hold the elections built up, Abdulazeez Yari and his team jumped from one APC state to another seeking confidence, support and cash. They bulldozed the state with a lot of dirty antics and many wrongs. They campaigned dirty and nasty. The Matawalle-led PDP kept its cool. After all, the whole thing is temporary and the elections would soon be over. As the campaign curtain began to draw, Yari invited dignitaries including state Governors, serving Senators, serving Ministers, National Assembly members and heavy political stalwarts all for the tiny Bakura Constituency elections. Matawalle must be intimidated, he must know he’s not in control, Yari promised.
The first blow against this discredited despot was that all these dignitaries failed to honour his invitation. When they came, they unleashed mayhem at Bakura town and environs in the name of rounding-up their campaigns. Their thugs slaughtered two known PDP supporters, injured many and burnt property. This was in spite of the law as the Police had earlier announced a suspension of all campaign rally and imposed a 24-hour curfew to forestall any possible breach of the peace. Still, the Matawalle led PDP kept its cool to avoid loss of lives.
Now, the D-day came. The day of reckoning was here. It was a day to decide, not only the Bakura election, but who now triumphs in a free and fair contest in the state between the loser APC and the so-called Court winner PDP. Both Parties were fully represented at the constituency. The votes started and ended peacefully. But, alas, INEC said the elections were inconclusive as they cancelled the votes of 14 polling units with more than 11,000 votes at stake. Even then, the PDP was leading with more than 2000 votes. As the 14 wards where the votes were cancelled also represent a stronghold of PDP, the Yari group became beaten-up and fully neutralised.
INEC then, declared Wednesday, the 9th of December as Re-run election day to conclude the inconclusive. To save its battered pride, the APC called a Press Conference and a withdrawal from the race citing reasons from the absurd to the laughable.
Now, today is the D-day. Elections held peacefully with all political parties participating except the APC who made good its promise not to be there. The Bakura people made a decision. A decision that will go down into posterity as a final straw that broke the Camel’s back. The APC lost woefully to the PDP and, tail between the legs, the APC run out of sight.The PDP has won.
However, the Bakura bye-election contains very many significant lessons. The major lesson to learn and imbibe is the need for the APC to accept the Will of God. Everyone has his own time. And the Will of God is that Matawalle today, is His choice and that his gladiating political prowess and structure is now built and is shining like the lone northern star, permanently fixed in the firmament.
Bappa writes from Gusau.
Gov. Peter Mbah @54: From Campaign Vision to Transformational Leadership in Enugu State
By George Omagbemi Sylvester
“From Campaign Promises to Measurable Impact: How Gov. Peter Mbah is Transforming Enugu State Ahead of His 54th Birthday”
Governor Peter Mbah is being celebrated on March 16, 2026, ahead of his 54th birthday tomorrow, March 17, 2026, for his visionary leadership, developmental initiatives, and enduring impact on Enugu State.
Mbah began his journey to the governorship under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) during the 2022 primaries, running on a platform of economic revitalisation, security enhancement, education reform, healthcare expansion, and youth empowerment. His campaign emphasized making Enugu State a business-friendly, investment-ready, and socially inclusive environment, promising policies to raise the state’s economy significantly while improving living standards for citizens.
Elected governor on March 18, 2023, and sworn in on May 29, 2023, Mbah immediately began translating campaign promises into action. Within months, his administration launched strategic initiatives across multiple sectors, reflecting a commitment to governance that is both pragmatic and people-focused.
Security and Public Safety
One of Mbah’s first priorities was enhancing security. He established AI-powered command centers, modern surveillance systems, and rapid response squads, reducing crime rates and making Enugu a model for safety in the region. Citizens and investors alike have praised these measures for creating a secure environment that encourages commerce and tourism.
Education and Healthcare
Mbah has made education and healthcare cornerstones of his administration. The state now boasts 260 Smart Green Schools equipped with ICT labs and digital learning tools. In healthcare, he constructed 260 Primary Healthcare Centres, ensuring that communities across the state have access to essential medical services. His policies reflect a vision of equitable development and human capital empowerment.
Infrastructure and Urban Renewal
Under his leadership, nearly 1,000 km of roads have been completed or rehabilitated, while urban centers have undergone significant renewal. Water schemes long neglected were revitalized to provide reliable supply, and waste management initiatives have improved public sanitation across the state. Mbah’s administration also prioritizes long-term city planning, with projects like the International Conference Centre and future smart city developments underway.
Economic Reform and Revenue Generation
Digitization has been central to Mbah’s economic reforms. Land and tax systems were modernized, broadening the revenue base and improving transparency, all without imposing new taxes. These measures have attracted investors and strengthened the state’s economy, demonstrating that governance can be efficient, accountable, and growth-oriented.
Transport and Aviation
Mbah launched Enugu Air and upgraded urban transport infrastructure, including modern bus terminals and a fleet of CNG-powered buses, easing mobility for residents and creating new employment opportunities.
Leadership Style and Legacy
Described by analysts as a “talk and do” leader, Mbah combines strategic planning with direct engagement at the grassroots level. His cabinet has been restructured to align with developmental goals, including the creation of a Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources to harness local potential. These steps demonstrate a focus on long-term, sustainable governance.
As he celebrates his 54th birthday on March 17, 2026, stakeholders and citizens honor a leader whose tenure has consistently prioritized progress, inclusivity, and citizen welfare. Supporters have even suggested endorsing him as a sole candidate in the 2027 elections, reflecting confidence in his leadership and track record.
Governor Mbah’s journey from campaign promises to tangible achievements illustrates a governance model grounded in vision, action, and accountability; an enduring legacy for Enugu State and a benchmark for Nigerian leadership.
society
SUPERSTAR7EVEN RELEASES ‘OMO TO SHUN / SORRY’, A POWERFUL TWO-TRACK PROJECT INTRODUCING A LIFESTYLE-LED ERA
SUPERSTAR7EVEN RELEASES ‘OMO TO SHUN / SORRY’, A POWERFUL TWO-TRACK PROJECT INTRODUCING A LIFESTYLE-LED ERA
Lagos, Nigeria – Superstar7even, the rising Lagos-based artist, has dropped her latest project, ‘Omo to Shun / Sorry’, a two-track release that marks the beginning of her journey as a force to be reckoned with in the music industry. This release is the first phase of a larger body of work scheduled for later this year, setting the stage for a trailblazing career.
‘Omo to Shun / Sorry’ is more than just a music release – it’s a narrative experience. The two tracks are designed to be experienced together, telling a story of confidence, ambition, and personal independence. ‘Omo to Shun’ is an anthem of self-assurance, capturing the essence of everyday moments where confidence is expressed through presence, not performance. ‘Sorry’ shifts the focus to the importance of hard work, financial autonomy, and long-term vision, creating a cohesive storyline that showcases Superstar7even’s artistic depth.
This project is supported by a three-month rollout strategy that prioritizes community engagement and fan participation. The campaign spans digital platforms, campus networks, radio appearances, and offline touchpoints in student-led environments, encouraging fans to interpret, share, and connect with the music on a deeper level.
“We wanted to create a release that would spark a conversation, not just about the music, but about the lifestyle and values that Superstar7even represents,” said the artist. “This is just the beginning, and we’re excited to share our journey with our fans.”
‘Omo to Shun / Sorry’ is available on all major streaming platforms. Join the movement and experience the sound of confidence, ambition, and modern independence.
*About Superstar7even*
Superstar7even is a Lagos-based artist whose work explores themes of confidence, ambition, and personal independence. Her releases are structured as long-form narratives, emphasizing continuity, audience participation, and cultural relevance.
*Connect with Superstar7even:*
Instagram: @Superstar7even
TikTok: @Superstar7even
X: @thatgirl7even
Coalition urges IGP to rebuild public confidence on Nigerian police
…Seeks investigation of AIG Moshood time in Lagos
The Coalition of Civil Society Organisations in collaboration with the Centre for Citizens’ Rights has urged the Inspector General of Police to rebuild public confidence in the Nigeria Police Force.
Speaking at a press conference in Lagos, the President of the Coalition, Adeyemi Olorunsogo and its Secretary, Kolawole Abe Emmanuel, said Nigerians expect professionalism, impartiality, and accountability from the leadership of the Force.
The Coalition expressed concern over consistent and clear repeated interference of the Lagos police command in matters that are purely civil in nature, and actions that suggest a troubling pattern of bias in the handling of sensitive disputes.
It said: “Over the past few weeks, our coalition has repeatedly drawn the attention of the public to the disturbing conduct of the Nigeria Police Force in Lagos State, particularly under the leadership of the immediate past Commissioner of Police, Mr. Olorundare Jimoh Moshood.
“We, therefore, call on the newly appointed Inspector-General of Police to exercise utmost caution in the deployment and assignment of senior officers, particularly in situations where their previous conduct has generated serious public concern.
“We note that Mr. Moshood has now been posted away from Lagos. We also acknowledge the appointment of the new Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Tunji Disu, whose professional reputation in intelligence-led policing, crime management and strategic leadership has earned him public respect.
“In view of this new leadership and in the hope that professionalism and accountability will define the next phase of policing in Nigeria, this coalition has resolved to suspend its earlier planned protest until further notice.
“In situations where the police ought to remain neutral and professional, the conduct of the former Commissioner appeared to tilt the scale in favour of certain interests, thereby undermining public confidence in the impartiality of law enforcement.
“In February 2026, without a valid court order, without a formal invitation, and without a lawful warrant of arrest, the former Commissioner reportedly declared Alhaji Hammed Tajudeen Akanbi wanted for murder.
“This declaration arose in the context of a family and community land dispute involving factions within the Ajiran community. Allegations bordering on murder is a very sensitive one as it does not only speak to law but sanctity of life and one accused of such if not cleared carries a life time burden.
“Following that declaration, the property of Alhaji Akanbi was reportedly destroyed by individuals who allegedly operated under the protection and watch of officers of the Lagos State Police Command.
“The Nigeria Police Force must never be seen as taking sides in private civil disputes. The integrity of law enforcement depends on neutrality, professionalism, and respect for the rule of law.
“Declaring a citizen wanted without a lawful warrant, proper investigation, or court order raises serious concerns about abuse of police authority and must never become a precedent in a democratic society.
“While promotions within the Police Force fall under the authority of the Police Service Commission, we believe that officers whose actions have generated significant public concern should be carefully scrutinized before being entrusted with greater responsibility.
“The appointment of the new Inspector-General of Police presents an opportunity to rebuild public confidence in the Nigeria Police Force. Nigerians expect professionalism, impartiality, and accountability from the leadership of the Force.
“Civil society exists to hold power accountable. Our intervention is not political; it is a duty to protect the rule of law and defend the rights of citizens. We wish the new Inspector-General of Police success in his assignment and urge him to live up to the expectations of millions of Nigerians who desire a police force that is professional, impartial, and accountable.”
-
society6 months agoReligion: Africa’s Oldest Weapon of Enslavement and the Forgotten Truth
-
news3 months agoWHO REALLY OWNS MONIEPOINT? The $290 Million Deal That Sold Nigeria’s Top Fintech to Foreign Interests
-
society6 months ago“You Are Never Without Help” – Pastor Gebhardt Berndt Inspires Hope Through Empower Church (Video)
-
Business7 months agoGTCO increases GTBank’s Paid-Up Capital to ₦504 Billion