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Dr. Ope Banwo Speaks On Transitioning Naija Lives Matter Organization To Non-Partisan Mode

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Dr. Ope Banwo Speaks On Transitioning
Naija Lives Matter Organization To Non-Partisan Mode

***Says Organization Will Now Focus On Projects To Improve Nigerian Lives

 

 

 

 

Dr. Ope Banwo, the founder of Naija Lives Matter (NLM), a non-governmental organization committed to better lives for Nigerians has explained the organization’s decision to refocus its priorities.

 

 

 

 

In a statement released on Tuesday, Dr. Banwo stated that the organization’s mission and goals extend beyound the 2023 elections, electioneering campaigns, and politics.

 

 

 

 

According to him, the process of the organization had been clearly communicated from its very beginning to avoid any accusations of opportunism or policy inconsistencies, which are unfortunately common in our country when disagreements arise.

 

 

 

 

He said; “Since 2011, the NLM organization has consistently de-emphasized its partisan support for any specific candidate after the elections and campaigns are over, enabling it to concentrate on its global mandate of making Naija lives matter to all Nigerians, irrespective of their political affiliations.

 

 

 

 

“When Naija Lives Matter endorsed Peter Obi as our chosen candidate in August 2022, we made it clear that our partisan involvement would solely extend until the conclusion of the elections. Subsequently, we would focus on other aspects of our mission and goals, for which our organization was founded in 2011.

 

 

 

 

“In the past, we supported Jonathan through the GEJ project, rallied behind Buhari through the Buhari4Naija project in 2015, and even had a Moghalu4Naija project before eventually endorsing Peter Obi for the 2023 elections.

 

 

 

 

“Our commitment is not irreversibly tied to any particular politician; it lies in what we believe is in the best interest of Nigeria and its people,” Dr. Banwo said.

 

 

 

With the transition, NLM now moves beyond the recent election cycle, with a current focus on organizing projects aimed at making the lives of all Nigerians better.

 

 

 

 

“Henceforth, we shall therefore leave the legal and political affairs to lawyers and politicians, and respect the decisions of the courts, whatever they may be.

 

 

 

“In alignment with our mandate and the previously declared engagement period for the 2023 elections, we hereby inform our members that Naija Lives Matter will now shift its focus towards other aspects of our charter such as mass non-partisan mobilization on national issues, youth empowerment training, workshops, community assistance services for the less privileged in Nigeria, and other activities.

 

 

 

 

“In light of this new direction, we will convene meetings with our state directors and cell leaders to announce additional NLM initiatives that extend beyond politics in the coming days. These initiatives will focus on non-partisan national mobilization, youth empowerment through training and workshops, and community-building responsibilities.

 

 

 

“All our threads on WhatsApp and other social media platforms will once again be dedicated to NLM as we officially conclude the Peter Obi Nation Project for the 2023 elections,” Dr. Banwo noted.

 

 

 

Thanking members of the Peter Obi Nation Project of the NLM organization for their tremendous efforts during the 2023 elections, Dr. Banwo said that together they fought valiantly in a highly contested electoral process, adding that together they gave as much as they got in the very bitter partisan electioneering campaign for the organization’s endorsed candidate, Peter Obi.

 

 

“We did not compromise and many of us even paid the price of alienating some of our long-term friends in the heat of partisan battle.

 

 

 

“To this end, I am immensely proud of every individual involved in this monumental battle, and it has been an honor serving as the Chief Vawolence Officer for Naija Lives Matter side of things during this 2923 election cycle. We also offer No apologies for our passionate campaign for what we passionately believed in. It was what it was.

Acknowledging the fact that many individuals who joined NLM’s special Peter Obi Nation Project were primarily interested in supporting the Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate, and may not share NLM”s broader mandate and NGO charter, Dr. Banwo said that the organization would understand if those solely focused on partisan politics choose to disassociate themselves from the NLM organization across it numerous groups and threads, adding that the organizational continuity transcends any single election cycle.

“To be clear, this pivot by NLM does not mean we no longer support Peter Obi. We continue to stand behind his 2023 mandate which we believed in, wholeheartedly. Nevertheless, our organization was not established solely for this election cycle. We have followed the same refocusing approach after the elections in 2011 and 2015. Although the intensity of this cycle was undeniable, our policy remains intact.

“We hope that our fellow compatriots engaged in the highly intense campaign for 2023 will understand and respect our decision to shift away from combative partisan politics at this juncture. Instead, we aim to engage the Tinubu government in a non-partisan yet critical manner, reminding them of their promises and holding them accountable. Should the courts later remove him from office, we will also celebrate. But for now, we have a country to assist in governance.”

 

Dr. Ope Banwo Speaks On Transitioning
Naija Lives Matter Organization To Non-Partisan Mode

Sahara weekly online is published by First Sahara weekly international. contact saharaweekly@yahoo.com

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Fire and Fury: Trump Orders Military Onslaught on Houthis Amid Red Sea Chaos”

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U.S. STRIKES YEMEN’S HOUTHIS: ESCALATION IN THE MIDDLE EAST

-At Least 19 Killed as Trump Orders Massive Retaliatory Strikes on Yemen

 

Washington, D.C. / Sanaa – March 15, 2025 – In an unprecedented escalation, U.S. President Donald Trump has launched large-scale military strikes against Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthis, vowing that “hell will rain down” should the group continue its attacks on Red Sea shipping. The offensive, which officials warn could last for weeks, has already resulted in at least 19 deaths, including civilians.

The strikes come in response to a surge of Houthi attacks on commercial vessels, which have disrupted global trade routes and threatened U.S. military assets in the region. Trump also issued a stark warning to Iran, the Houthis’ primary benefactor, stating, “America will hold you fully accountable, and we won’t be nice about it!”

Escalating Tensions and Civilian Casualties

Fire and Fury: Trump Orders Military Onslaught on Houthis Amid Red Sea Chaos"

In the capital, Sanaa, at least 13 civilians were killed and nine others wounded in the U.S. airstrikes, according to the Houthi-controlled health ministry. Additional reports indicate that six people—including four children and a woman—were killed in the northern province of Saada, according to the Houthi-run Al-Masirah TV. The Houthis have condemned the attacks, calling them a “war crime.”

“Our Yemeni armed forces are fully prepared to respond to escalation with escalation,” the group’s political bureau warned in a defiant statement.

Residents in Sanaa described the horror of the strikes. “The explosions were violent and shook the neighborhood like an earthquake. They terrified our women and children,” said Abdullah Yahia, a local resident, in an interview with Reuters.

The Largest U.S. Operation in the Middle East Under Trump

This marks the most significant U.S. military operation in the Middle East since Trump took office. The U.S. Central Command confirmed that Saturday’s strikes are part of a sweeping operation aimed at crippling the Houthis’ offensive capabilities.

Houthi forces have launched more than 100 attacks on maritime vessels since November 2023, significantly disrupting global commerce. The U.S. has spent billions intercepting their missile and drone attacks, depleting air defense stocks. The Houthis claim their actions are in solidarity with Palestinians amid Israel’s ongoing war against Hamas in Gaza.

A Regional Power Struggle: Iran, Hezbollah, and Hamas

While Iran’s other allies—Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon—have been significantly weakened by Israeli military action, the Houthis remain resilient. Their aggressive attacks have resulted in two sunken vessels, the seizure of another, and at least four fatalities among seafarers, forcing shipping companies to reroute at great expense.

Despite previous U.S. strikes under former President Joe Biden, the Houthis maintained their campaign. Now, with Trump escalating military efforts, the conflict threatens to engulf the region further. The latest U.S. assault was launched from fighter jets aboard the USS Harry S. Truman aircraft carrier stationed in the Red Sea.

Iran and U.S. on Collision Course

Trump’s administration had recently sought diplomatic engagement with Iran, with a letter to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei proposing negotiations over Tehran’s nuclear program. However, Khamenei firmly rejected talks.

“Iran’s support for the Houthis must end immediately,” Trump declared, raising the stakes with Tehran. The Pentagon, echoing Trump’s stance, warned that any further Houthi aggression would be met with “overwhelming lethal force.”

The situation remains highly volatile, with the possibility of wider regional conflict looming. As the world watches, the question remains: Will these strikes deter the Houthis, or will they lead to an all-out war in the Middle East?

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Nigerian Born US based Music Star, Tunde Success, to launch new album ‘Cornerstone’

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Nigerian Born US based Music Star, Tunde Success, to launch new album ‘Cornerstone’

The City of Philadelphia would be set agog on 17th May, 2025, as the creative and Nigerian born music star, Tunde Success is launching new album that day.

According to the information made available to us, the launching of ‘Cornerstone’ the new effort of handsome and dark Tunde Success is taking place at Philly in suites, 4444 City Avenue Philadelphia P A 19131.

The epoch making event is proudly sponsored by the Star Lager beer. To make the event a memorable one, Mama D Catering would supplied hot Amala on the spot, while Amazing Grace Catering is going to tantalize the event with jolly rice and shawarma.

The red carpet interview would be anchored by 360 Delight Creation.

While speaking about the event, Tunde Success, a multiple awards winning singer, however, promised to make the day, a moment of joy, entertainment and plenty faajis for all the guests. He also enjoined all his fans to come out enmass to support him.

Nigerian Born US based Music Star, Tunde Success, to launch new album 'Cornerstone'

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Alaketu-Designate Visits Ooni of Ife, Secures Royal Blessing for Kingship

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Alaketu-Designate Visits Ooni of Ife, Secures Royal Blessing for Kingship

Alaketu-Designate Visits Ooni of Ife, Secures Royal Blessing for Kingship

The Alaketu-designate of Ketu Land in Epe Local Government Area of Lagos State, Prince Adekoya Babajide Adefowora, on Wednesday, paid a historic visit to the Ooni of Ife, Arole Oduduwa Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, at his palace in Ile-Ife.

The visit, which is a significant step in his journey to the throne, was marked by the royal father’s blessings and prayers for a peaceful and prosperous reign.

This comes after the formal presentation of Prince Adefowora, who hails from the Ateshimara Ruling House, by the traditional authorities of Ketu Land on Tuesday, February 18, 2025.

His visit underscores the deep-rooted ancestral ties between Ketu Land and Ile-Ife, reaffirming the sacred traditions that bind Yoruba monarchs to their spiritual and historical source.

Prince Adefowora was accompanied to the Ooni’s palace by prominent members of his family, high-ranking chiefs, and kingmakers from Ketu Land, all of whom played key roles in his selection and endorsement as the next Alaketu.

Speaking at the palace, Prince Adefowora described his visit as a homecoming and an essential part of his ascension process.
have come home to pay homage to my father, the Ooni of Ife. My deep love for my people motivated me to accept the call to the throne of Ketu. This journey is not just about me; it is about upholding our rich heritage and leading my people towards greater progress,” he said.

Addressing controversies surrounding his ascension, he condemned attempts by some individuals to manipulate the process with fraudulent documents.

I am aware of certain fraudulent documents being submitted by some individuals to the authorities. I use this opportunity to urge them to desist from such illegal activities. The Supreme Court has already affirmed my right to the throne, and I call on the government to thoroughly investigate this matter. It is crucial for everyone to respect the rule of law and uphold due process,” he stated.

On the delay in filling the Alaketu throne after the demise of the previous ruler, Prince Adefowora explained that Yoruba tradition necessitates a period of transition.

“In Yoruba tradition, when a king joins his ancestors, a period of interregnum is observed before selecting a successor. This allows the community time to reflect, ensure stability, and make the right choice for the future. My people made their choice long ago, and today, they have formally presented me to our ancestral father, the Ooni of Ife. I am honored to have received Kabiyesi’s blessings,” he added.

In his response, the Ooni of Ife congratulated Prince Adefowora on his journey to the throne and prayed for a successful reign filled with peace, wisdom, and development for Ketu Land.

You are about to embark on a sacred duty, one that requires wisdom, patience, and commitment to the welfare of your people. I pray that your reign brings prosperity, unity, and growth to Ketu Land. May the ancestors guide you, and may your leadership be marked by justice and progress,” the Ooni prayed.

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