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Opposition Parties Slam President Tinubu Over Viral Video of Long Queues at Bourdillon; Accuse APC of Weaponizing Poverty

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Opposition Parties Slam President Tinubu Over Viral Video of Long Queues at Bourdillon; Accuse APC of Weaponizing Poverty

Opposition Parties Slam President Tinubu Over Viral Video of Long Queues at Bourdillon; Accuse APC of Weaponizing Poverty

 

Nigeria’s opposition parties, including the Labour Party (LP), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and others, have launched scathing attacks on the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) over the country’s worsening poverty levels, following the viral circulation of a video showing long lines of Nigerians queuing for foodstuffs at President Bola Tinubu’s Bourdillon residence in Lagos on Christmas Eve.

The video, which quickly garnered widespread attention, depicted a mammoth crowd gathered on Bourdillon Road in Ikoyi, Lagos, seeking food handouts from the President. The footage, shared by Senator Ali Ndume, highlighted the economic struggles faced by millions of Nigerians, as the holiday season starkly revealed the depth of poverty and hardship across the country.

Opposition Reacts: Calls for Accountability

Senator Ndume, a member of the ruling APC, described the video as a sobering reflection of the state of poverty in the nation. He remarked, “Queues for presidential handouts at Bourdillon on Christmas Eve highlight a sobering reality. Poverty knows no tribe, religion, politics, or region. It is a universal challenge that demands collective action and sustainable solutions.”

However, the opposition parties were quick to seize on the incident, with the Labour Party’s National Publicity Secretary, Obiora Ifoh, condemning the ruling party for exacerbating poverty in Nigeria. “It’s sad that the APC is turning more Nigerians into beggars by the day. The statistics are out there for everyone to see,” he stated, pointing out that the poverty rate in Nigeria had become unbearable for many citizens.

Ifoh further criticized the APC government for its inability to address the increasing cost of living, citing the high price of food items, including a bag of rice that now costs over N100,000. “There is hunger in the land,” he said, emphasizing the widespread discontent with the ruling government’s economic policies.

Peter Obi: A Stark Contrast to Nigeria’s Potential

Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, also joined the criticism, expressing concern over the growing poverty under President Tinubu’s administration. Speaking through his media aide, Obi said, “It’s heartbreaking to see a nation with such potential struggling to provide for its people. The lack of effective governance is evident in the government’s failure to provide basic necessities and opportunities for its citizens.”

Obi’s remarks highlighted the deepening divide between Nigeria’s vast potential and the harsh realities faced by ordinary citizens under the current administration.

PDP’s Timothy Osadolor: A Warning to the Political Elite

The Deputy National Youth Leader of the PDP, Timothy Osadolor, accused President Tinubu’s administration of “weaponizing poverty” to suppress the masses. “Nigerians need to beg with a pleading hand to survive,” Osadolor said, expressing frustration at the government’s inability to address the mounting hunger and unemployment in the country.

Osadolor warned that the situation could lead to greater social unrest. “A time may come when people will stop begging for food and will go after the political elites, especially members of the APC, who have caused the hardship,” he cautioned.

Young People’s Party: Urgent Review Needed

Egbeola Martins, National Publicity Secretary of the Young People’s Party, added his voice to the condemnation, saying, “Things have never been this bad.” Martins called for an urgent review of the APC government’s economic policies, particularly the subsidy removal, which he argued had exasperated the suffering of Nigerians.

APC Defends Tinubu’s Actions

In response to the backlash, the APC dismissed the opposition’s criticisms, arguing that the President’s charitable actions were nothing new. Bala Ibrahim, the APC National Publicity Director, defended Tinubu’s longstanding reputation for generosity, stating, “Tinubu has been doing this for ages. This is not the first time he is doing it. But now that he is the President, it has become extremely conspicuous.”

Ibrahim pointed out that the President had been helping people in need long before his ascension to office and urged critics to understand that Tinubu’s actions were motivated by a desire to help others. He also accused the opposition of trying to mischaracterize Tinubu’s intentions to “incite Nigerians against the President.”

The Bigger Picture: A Nation in Crisis

As Nigeria grapples with a spiraling economic crisis, the sight of long queues at Bourdillon has become a symbol of the nation’s distress. The ruling government’s inability to alleviate widespread poverty and hunger has led to intense public scrutiny. With the international community highlighting Nigeria’s soaring poverty rate, critics continue to call for more effective governance and policies that prioritize the welfare of the people, rather than fostering dependence on handouts.

The questions remain: Will the APC be able to address the economic crisis, or will the frustration of the masses boil over, as opposition parties continue to push for change?

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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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