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Coalition of Nigerians Write African Union Over State of Emergency in Rivers

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Coalition of Nigerians Write African Union Over State of Emergency in Rivers

Coalition of Nigerians Write African Union Over State of Emergency in Rivers

 

A coalition of Nigerians has expressed dismay and disappointment over President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, describing it as a gross abuse of power and a blatant disregard for the Constitution, democratic principles, and the rule of law.

Coalition of Nigerians Write African Union Over State of Emergency in Rivers

In a letter to the African Union Commission, the coalition urged the commission to take immediate action to address the situation and ensure that democratic principles are upheld.

See full letter below:

*COALITION OF NIGERIANS*
No. 24 Seriki Street, Off Odunsi Street, Bariga Shomolu Lagos, Nigeria.

March 26, 2025

His Excellency, Alhaji Mahmoud Ali Youssouf,
The Chairperson, African Union Commission,
P. O. Box 3243, Roosevelt Street W21K19,
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Your Excellency,

UNCONSTITUTIONAL DECLARATION OF STATE OF EMERGENCY IN RIVERS STATE: A THREAT TO DEMOCRACY IN NIGERIA AND AFRICA

We are writing to express our utmost dismay, disappointment, and disillusionment over the recent declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State by President Bola Tinubu. This decision is not only a gross abuse of power but also a blatant disregard for the Constitution, democratic principles, and the rule of law.

With President Tinubu as the Chairman of ECOWAS, Nigeria is expected to be a shining example of democratic governance in Africa. Unfortunately, President Tinubu’s actions have fallen woefully short of this expectation. His decision to suspend the democratically elected Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminilayi Fubara, and the State House of Assembly, is a clear violation of the Constitution and an affront to democratic principles.

Section 305 of the Constitution, which the President cited as the basis for his action, does not grant him the power to suspend or remove elected officials. The Constitution is clear on the grounds for removing a governor, which is explicitly stated in Section 188. The President’s action is a blatant disregard for the Constitution and the democratic process.

This action is not only a threat to democracy in Nigeria but also sets a dangerous precedent for the suppression of democratic institutions and the rule of law in Africa. It is imperative that the African Union Commission takes immediate action to address this situation and ensure that democratic principles are upheld.

The implications of this action are far-reaching, and if left unchecked, could lead to a breakdown in law and order, undermine the legitimacy of democratic institutions, and damage Nigeria’s reputation as a beacon of democracy in Africa. Furthermore, this action raises serious concerns about the President’s commitment to democracy and the rule of law. It is worrisome that the President would resort to such draconian measures, rather than exploring democratic solutions to the challenges facing Rivers State.

We are also concerned about the potential consequences of this action on the stability of Nigeria and the African region. The suspension of democratic institutions and the imposition of emergency rule could lead to widespread unrest, violence, and instability. In addition, this action undermines the principles of federalism and the autonomy of states in Nigeria. The President’s decision to suspend the Governor and the State House of Assembly is a clear infringement on the powers of the state government and a violation of the principle of separation of powers.

We urge you to prevail upon President Tinubu to immediately lift the State of Emergency in Rivers State and restore the democratically elected government. We request that the African Union Commission take concrete steps to ensure that Nigeria, as a member state, upholds the principles of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. We also request that the African Union Commission take the following steps:

*Condemns the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State and the suspension of the democratically elected Governor and State House of Assembly.
*Calls on President Tinubu to immediately lift the State of Emergency and restore the democratically elected government.
*Sends a fact-finding mission to Rivers State to investigate the circumstances surrounding the declaration of a state of emergency and the suspension of democratic institutions.
*Takes concrete steps to ensure that Nigeria, as a member state, upholds the principles of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law.

We look forward to your prompt response and action.

Signed;
Professor Senator Opeyemi Ola
Professor Adah George
Rt. Hon Dr James Oloko
Dr. Mrs Evelyn E. Ogolime

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Liberian Leaders, Citizens Bear Witness as Apostle Suleman Hosts Two-Day Power-Packed Crusade

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Liberian Leaders, Citizens Bear Witness as Apostle Suleman Hosts Two-Day Power-Packed Crusade

 

It was testimonies galore on Tuesday, March 31, the first day of the famous servant of God and founder of the Omega Fire Ministries (OFM) worldwide, Apostle Johnson Suleman’s power-packed two-day crusade. The event documented impactful moments with the Gospel and miracles, emphasizing the power of faith and the tangible confirmation of God’s Word through signs and wonders. It was equally an atmosphere of miraculous healing, restoration of lives, and the strengthening of faith.

 

At the crusade, which was held at the SKD Sports Stadium in Paynesville City, and themed, “Liberia Outpouring Crusade” witnessed testimonies of impact and miracles with participants experiencing instant healing of various kinds of challenges.

 

Apostle Suleman’s first port of call was Paynesville, the office of Liberian government’s president, Mr. Joseph Nyuma Boakai, who received him in an audience with his junior ministers. Apostle Suleman, who also met with the vice-president, Mr. Jeremiah Kpan Koung, was welcomed by the Liberian leader’s office as part of the president’s ongoing engagements with religious leaders aimed at fostering spiritual support for national development.

 

The president expressed profound appreciation to Apostle Suleman for the visit and continued prayers and intercessions by men and women of God on behalf of Liberia, emphasizing his firm belief that sustained spiritual guidance and prayer remain vital to the transformation and progress of the nation.

 

During the visit, Apostle Suleman offered prayers for President Boakai, his cabinet and the Liberian nation, invoking divine alignment, wisdom, and insight in Liberia’s path toward growth and stability. He prayed that the Almighty God would position Liberia for relevance and fulfillment of its national destiny.

 

Apostle Johnson Suleman, an evangelist who knows no bounds of where preaching the gospel comes to a stop, visited Liberia prepared with the message, compelling power of the Gospel and the work of the Holy Spirit, and bringing people to a point of decision where they surrendered their lives to Christ.

 

Aside from being prophetic and timely, OFM sources disclosed that the servant of God’s visit underscores the importance of faith-based partnerships in supporting governance and national renewal efforts.

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Middle Belt Forum Hails Tinubu’s Jos Visit, Calls for United Civil-Military Effort to Restore Lasting Peace

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*Middle Belt Forum Hails Tinubu’s Jos Visit, Calls for United Civil-Military Effort to Restore Lasting Peace

 

The Middle Belt Peace Forum (MBPF) has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his profound demonstration of empathy and responsive leadership following his decision to postpone an official engagement in Iperu in order to visit victims of the recent attacks in Jos.

In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Pastor Bulus Garba, in Jos on Friday, the Forum said the President’s decision to personally identify with grieving communities sends a powerful message of solidarity and reinforces public confidence in the commitment of the Federal Government to the protection of lives and property.

“The Middle Belt Peace Forum warmly commends President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for prioritising compassion over ceremony. At a time of deep sorrow for the people of Plateau State, his decision to visit Jos stands as a mark of true leadership—one that listens, responds, and stands with the people in their moment of pain,” the statement read.

The Forum described the perpetrators of the recent attacks as “cowards who prey on innocent and defenceless citizens,” stressing that such acts of violence are not only inhumane but also a direct assault on the unity and peace of the nation.

“We condemn in the strongest terms the actions of these cowardly attackers whose only aim is to instil fear and destabilise peaceful communities. Their actions must be met with firm and decisive resistance from all arms of the state,” Pastor Garba said.

The MBPF further used the opportunity to salute the courage, gallantry, and sacrifices of the Armed Forces of Nigeria under the leadership of the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, noting that their continued efforts remain central to restoring stability across troubled parts of the country.

According to the Forum, the Armed Forces have demonstrated resilience and professionalism in the face of complex security challenges, often operating under difficult conditions to safeguard communities and defend Nigeria’s territorial integrity.

“We salute the Armed Forces of Nigeria for their unwavering commitment and sacrifices. Their gallantry in confronting criminal elements and reclaiming territories is a testament to their dedication to national service. We recognise that the path to peace is demanding, and we honour those who stand daily in defence of our nation,” the statement added.

The Forum pledged its full support to ongoing military operations and called for strengthened collaboration between security agencies and local communities as a critical factor in achieving lasting peace.

It also urged citizens across the Middle Belt to cooperate with security forces by providing timely information and fostering unity within their communities.

The MBPF, however, expressed concern over the need for greater synergy among security agencies, particularly the role of the Nigeria Police in consolidating gains made by the military.

“We call on the Nigeria Police Force to rise fully to its constitutional responsibility by effectively supporting the Armed Forces in stabilising and securing areas that have been cleared of criminal elements. Holding and policing such territories is essential to preventing a resurgence of violence,” Pastor Garba stated.

The Forum emphasised that sustainable peace requires a coordinated approach in which the military clears and secures areas, while the police maintain law and order to enable displaced communities to return and rebuild their lives.

The MBPF concluded by reiterating its commitment to peacebuilding efforts across the Middle Belt and expressed optimism that with sustained leadership, coordinated security efforts, and active citizen participation, lasting peace can be achieved.

“Together, through unity, vigilance, and collective resolve, we can overcome these challenges and build a safer and more peaceful Middle Belt,” the statement added.

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Governor Dauda Lawal Wins Face of Africa Governor of the Year Award in London

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Governor Dauda Lawal Wins Face of Africa Governor of the Year Award in London

 

Governor Dauda Lawal has been honored with the Outstanding Governor of the Year award by Triangle Media International Magazine.

 

The award was presented during the magazine’s 10th annual lecture and award ceremony, held on Thursday at the Grand Hall of King’s College, London, United Kingdom.

 

According to a statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, the awards recognize public and private sector leaders whose leadership positively impacts governance and service delivery.

 

He added that the lecture, themed “Harnessing the Roles of Nigerians in Diaspora for National Development,” brought together stakeholders from both the public and private sectors.

 

The statement read in part: “Yesterday, in London, Governor Dauda Lawal received the 2026 Face of Africa Leadership Award for Outstanding Governor of the Year.

 

“The 2026 edition coincides with the 10th anniversary of Triangle International Magazine, which has over the years celebrated notable Africans across diverse fields.

 

“The award recognizes the Zamfara State Government under Governor Lawal’s leadership for achieving remarkable milestones in service delivery since his inauguration on 29 May 2023.

 

“The board of Triangle International noted that, despite inheriting an empty treasury, Governor Dauda Lawal has remained true to the Rescue Agenda’s campaign promise: to rescue and rebuild Zamfara.

 

“The award also reflects the state government’s innovative approach to indirectly curbing insecurity through educational advancement, demonstrated by the declaration of a state of emergency in the education sector.

 

“This includes the state government’s swift payment of the outstanding N3.4 billion for WAEC and NECO examinations, as well as the reconstruction and rehabilitation of schools across all 14 Local Government Areas of Zamfara State.

 

“The international magazine finds these initiatives to be strategic interventions toward long-term efforts to make Zamfara State better.”

 

The colourful event was attended by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, and Sahara Group’s Group Managing Director, Kola Adesina, among others.

 

Governor Dauda Lawal Wins Face of Africa Governor of the Year Award in London

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