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Rivers: Niger Delta Group Writes CJN Ariwoola, Alleges Plot by Ex-Lawmakers to Intimidate Judiciary*

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*Rivers: Niger Delta Group Writes CJN Ariwoola, Alleges Plot by Ex-Lawmakers to Intimidate Judiciary*

 

 

A Niger Delta group, Concerned Niger Delta Vanguard, has written an open letter to the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Hon. Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, alleging a plot by former lawmakers to ridicule the judiciary.

The group claims that the recent transfer of cases involving the defection of 26 state lawmakers in Rivers State from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) has raised grave concerns about the integrity and impartiality of the judicial process.

The letter was signed by Dr Ekandem Umoh, Oghenekaro Francis, Pastor Paul James, Obong Martins Ekarika, Sir Godhead Sylva and Chika Okpobiri.

According to the group, the transfer order has potentially undermined established legal principles and the rulings of previous courts, creating a perception that the judiciary is susceptible to individual influence and petition-driven manipulation.

The letter, therefore, urged the Chief Justice to investigate the circumstances surrounding the transfer order, reaffirm the judiciary’s commitment to upholding the rule of law, and maintain the original court assignment.

The Concerned Niger Delta Vanguard expressed confidence in the CJN’s commitment to justice and fairness.

Read the full letter below:

The Honorable Chief Justice of Nigeria,

We are compelled to address you through this open letter with utmost concern and urgency regarding the recent transfer of cases about the defection of 26 state lawmakers in Rivers State from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). This development has precipitated profound implications for the democratic process. As the Chief Justice of Nigeria, your esteemed position entrusts you with the vital responsibility of ensuring the inviolability and impartiality of the judicial process. This duty assumes paramount importance in matters of such elevated significance to the functioning of our democracy.

The defection of lawmakers, spearheaded by the former speaker of Rivers State, Martin Amaewhule, from the ruling PDP to the APC, and their persistent assertion of legitimacy as lawmakers, has engendered profound legal and constitutional questions warrant scrutiny. It is indeed reassuring to note that the Rivers State High Court, sitting in Port Harcourt, has taken a decisive step by granting an interim injunction restraining the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Martin Amaewhule, and the 25 other lawmakers from parading themselves as legislators, thereby upholding the sanctity of the legal process.

Considering these developments, We implore you to exercise your judicial discretion to ensure that the transferred cases are adjudicated with the requisite diligence and impartiality, thereby reinforcing the public’s trust in the judiciary and safeguarding the very fabric of our democracy.

The recent transfer of these cases from Federal High Court 4, Port Harcourt, presided over by Justice Steven Dalyop Pam, to Court Two, headed by Justice E. O. Obele, pursuant to a petition filed by Hon. Martins Amaewhule, a defendant in the matter, has raised grave concerns regarding the integrity and impartiality of the judicial process. The transfer order, issued in response to a petition by a party facing allegations, potentially undermines established legal principles and the rulings of previous courts, thereby creating a perception that the judiciary is susceptible to individual influence and petition-driven manipulation. This development raises serious questions about the potential for undue influence and partiality in our judicial system, potentially eroding public trust in the judiciary’s ability to function as a fair and impartial arbiter.

The ongoing reforms within your esteemed office, aimed at strengthening the judiciary’s image and ensuring its role as a fair and impartial arbiter, are seemingly contradicted by this recent transfer. It is essential to prevent the judiciary from becoming a haven for political opportunism, where lawmakers exploit legal loopholes to maintain power after switching allegiances. The constitution clearly intends to prevent such behaviour, and a Supreme Court ruling has reiterated the legal implications of defection, emphasizing that a legislator cannot defect and remain a member of a legislative house in Nigeria unless there is a division in the party at the national level, and which the case of Amaewhule seems far from such condition.

The constitutional ban on political defection by legislators seeks to prevent political opportunism and safeguard the integrity of our legislative institutions. As the custodian of the rule of law, the judiciary must not allow itself to be compromised or manipulated for political gains. The recent events necessitate a resolute commitment to upholding the principles of justice and the rule of law, ensuring that the judiciary remains a bulwark against political prostitution and a champion of the integrity of our democratic institutions.

Therefore, we urge you to take the following actions:

Investigate the circumstances surrounding the transfer order. Ensure this decision was based solely on legitimate legal grounds and not influenced by external pressures.

Reaffirm the judiciary’s commitment to upholding the rule of law. The established legal precedents and the rulings of previous courts must be respected.

Maintain the original court assignment. Justice Pam, having already begun the hearing process, is well-positioned to see it through to a fair and just conclusion.

We fervently implore you, as the guardian of justice and the embodiment of the judiciary’s highest ideals, to ensure that the judicial system is not compromised by political machinations or partisan agendas. The sacrosanct principles of the rule of law must be upheld with unwavering dedication, and the judiciary must never be perceived as a sanctuary for corruption, political influence, or ideological bias. The recent developments surrounding the transfer of these cases underscore the imperative need for vigilance, steadfastness, and an unyielding commitment to the timeless principles of justice and fairness.

It is essential that the judiciary, under your visionary leadership, resists any attempts to subvert the rule of law and uphold the integrity of the judicial process, even in the face of intense political pressure or ideological opposition. Your office plays a pivotal role in safeguarding the ongoing reforms in the judicial system, ensuring that justice is served with impartiality, and upholding the trust reposed in the judiciary by the citizenry.

We have confidence in your unwavering commitment to the principles of justice, fairness, and the rule of law, even in the face of formidable challenges. Your resolute leadership and unshakeable dedication to the highest ideals of the judiciary will undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on the integrity of the judicial system and the democratic process in our nation, and We remain optimistic that the judiciary, under your stewardship, will continue to be a shining beacon of integrity, justice, and hope for our nation.

Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter.

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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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