Zelensky furious as Trump, Putin demand Ukrainian elections before peace deal
Trump and Putin push for Ukrainian elections before a peace deal, sparking outrage from Zelensky. U.S.-Russia talks exclude Ukraine, fueling geopolitical tensions. WASHINGTON, D.C. – President Donald Trump has called for Ukrainian presidential elections, arguing that Volodymyr Zelensky lacks the legitimacy to negotiate on behalf of the Ukrainian people. Trump cited Zelensky’s declining approval ratings and his use of martial law to remain in power. The demand has sparked intense geopolitical debate, with critics arguing that holding an election in war-torn Ukraine could destabilize the government and potentially lead to the rise of a pro-Putin candidate who may be willing to accept peace terms favorable to Moscow. Historic U.S.-Russia Talks in Saudi Arabia Trump’s comments follow a landmark meeting in Saudi Arabia on Tuesday, where Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio met for the first time to discuss a possible end to the war. After more than four hours of talks, reports emerged that both sides had agreed that Ukraine must hold elections before a final peace settlement can be reached. The meeting was widely criticized by European nations, who accused Trump of rushing into talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin without consulting key allies. Speaking later from Mar-a-Lago, Trump took full credit for the election proposal, saying: “The demand for a Ukrainian presidential election came from me.” He elaborated on his reasoning: “We have a situation where we haven’t had elections in Ukraine, where there is martial law—essentially martial law. Zelensky, I mean, I hate to say it, but he’s down to a 4 percent approval rating, and the country has been blown to smithereens… “If Ukraine wants a seat at the table, shouldn’t the people have a say? It has been a long time since they had an election. That’s not a Russian thing—that’s coming from me and many other countries as well.” Backlash from Ukraine and European Leaders Zelensky was not invited to the Saudi Arabia negotiations and, in response, canceled a planned visit to the country. Reacting to the meeting, he expressed outrage: “Negotiations should not take place behind our backs. Any peace talks must be fair and involve European countries, including Turkey, which has offered to host negotiations.” Zelensky also insisted that Ukraine, the European Union, Turkey, and the UK must be part of any security discussions with the U.S. regarding the region’s future. A senior Ukrainian official described the U.S.-Russia meeting as: “Absolutely mind-blowing and downright infuriating—pure, unbelievable absurdity.” The developments in Saudi Arabia have also created diplomatic tensions between the U.S. and its European allies. British opposition leader Sir Keir Starmer, who had recently called for Britain and NATO allies to send peacekeeping troops to Ukraine, now faces uncertainty about whether the U.S. will support such a mission. After a NATO leaders’ meeting in Paris, Starmer stated he would urge Trump to provide security guarantees when he visits Washington. However, Trump appeared open but indifferent to European intervention, stating: “That would be fine. I wouldn’t object to it at all.” Peace Deal Framework: Elections and Ceasefire First Tuesday’s talks marked a potential shift in U.S.-Russia relations, with both countries agreeing to: While Trump has been accused of excluding Zelensky from the process, he defended his decision: “They had three years to end this war. I hear they’re upset about not having a seat. Well, they’ve had a seat for three years and long before that. This could have been settled very easily.” “Just a half-baked negotiator could have settled this years ago—without losing much land, without losing any lives, and without entire cities lying in ruins.” Polls suggest Zelensky’s popularity has dropped from over 70% in 2023 to about 50% in late 2024, with Russia continuing to question his legitimacy after he stayed in office beyond his original term, which was set to end in May 2024. U.S. Confirms It Will Not Send Peacekeeping Troops Following mixed signals, U.S. officials confirmed during the Saudi Arabia meeting that the U.S. will not send peacekeeping troops to Ukraine. A source close to the White House stated that Trump’s administration believes the war must be resolved diplomatically, rather than through further military engagement. This decision casts doubt on European peacekeeping efforts, with British Shadow Defense Secretary James Cartlidge raising concerns over Starmer’s proposal to deploy UK troops. “If Keir Starmer really wants to put British troops on the ground in Ukraine, we need a lot more clarity on how the U.S. would support such a move if they refuse to send their own forces.” French President Emmanuel Macron also ruled out sending French troops, stating that any deployment would be highly limited and away from combat zones. Meanwhile, Lavrov reiterated Russia’s opposition to NATO involvement, warning that any ceasefire agreement must include changes to Europe’s security structures. “Settling this war requires a reorganization of Europe’s defense agreements,” Lavrov stated. Russia has long demanded NATO’s withdrawal from Eastern Europe, arguing that the alliance poses an existential threat to its borders. As the war drags into its third year, the push for Ukrainian elections adds a new layer of uncertainty to the conflict. Trump’s proposed peace framework, which hinges on a Zelensky-led election before any final settlement, is already facing global scrutiny. With the U.S. and Russia reopening diplomatic ties, the question remains: Will Ukraine be forced into an election that could reshape the war—and its leadership—forever? Read Also: How Vladimir Putin plans to play Donald Trump Read Also: Secret deal: U.S. bid for 50% control of Ukraine’s resources
Clark: Ijaw nation declares three-day mourning
The apex Ijaw socio-cultural organisation, the Ijaw National Congress (INC) has declared three days of mourning to honour late Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark. President of the INC, Prof Benjamin Okaba, who disclosed this in a statement Tuesday night in Yenagoa also called on Ijaw people at home in the diaspora to fly the Ijaw national flag at half mast during the mourning period. He described the demise of Pa Clark as a huge loss to Nigeria, the Ijaw nation and the Niger Delta. The statement read: “It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved leader – the Chairman Board of Trustees (INC), Chief Sen. Edwin Clark. “The Ijaw National Congress (INC) declares three days of mourning starting from mid-night today February 18, 2025 to honor his memory and legacy. “We call on all Ijaw people around the world to fly the Ijaw National Flag at half-mast during this period. “Let us come together to celebrate the life and achievements of this iconic figure, who dedicated his life to the advancement of the Ijaw people and the Niger Delta region. “Chief Clark’s tireless efforts to promote justice, equity, and fairness will never be forgotten. “As a former Minister and leader of the Ijaw people, he played a crucial role in shaping the history of our Nation. “During this period of mourning, we invite all Ijaw sons and daughters to reflect on Chief Clark’s selfless service and contributions to our Nation. “Let us strive to emulate his exemplary style of leadership and continue his legacy of fighting for the rights and dignity of our people. May his soul rest in peace.” Read Also: Clark’s exit: Obasanjo, Tompolo, diaspora Ijaw mourn
How Vladimir Putin plans to play Donald Trump
The Russian president thinks he is a better poker player Judged by the din of Russian propaganda, Vladimir Putin has never been closer to winning his war on Ukraine. Yet three years after his invasion, it is not clear what “win” means. His goals are elusive. His “special military operation” was planned in secret. His government was kept in the dark, as were the Russian people. Mr Putin talks of defending Russian sovereignty, but what happens next depends in part on factors outside his control: politics in Ukraine, Europe’s re-armament effort, and above all Donald Trump. Negotiations with the Trump administration began formally on February 18th in Saudi Arabia. Mr Trump has no clear plan, and his options range from cutting off Ukraine to ramping up military aid and sanctions. The dance between the American president and Mr Putin took another step in Riyadh, in the first direct meeting between American and Russian officials for three years. They agreed to a nebulous series of negotiations on Ukraine and “mutual geopolitical interests”. Preparations will begin for a Trump-Putin summit, although no date was fixed. These open-ended talks suit Mr Putin just fine. Whereas Mr Trump views them as a way to end a “ridiculous” war, Mr Putin sees them as a stage in a larger conflict, says an American official. The Russian leader calculates he has more staying power than Ukraine or NATO, the creaking Western alliance. Like a poker player, Mr Putin excels in projecting confidence and strength. In reality, though, his cards are not as strong as he would like his opponents to believe, while an end to the war could create complications for him at home. Any assessment of Russia’s negotiating position should start with the military situation. Its army has performed dismally. The pace of advance is excruciatingly slow: since last July it has struggled to take the town of Pokrovsk, where current losses are staggering. Most of its gains were in the first weeks of the war. In April 2022, following Russia’s retreat from the north of Ukraine, it controlled 19.6% of Ukrainian territory, and its casualties (dead and wounded) were perhaps 20,000. Today Russia occupies 19.2% and its casualties are 800,000, reckon British sources. A western official says “the two armies are fighting each other because they can’t stop, not because they are really hoping to achieve a decisive victory.” The attrition of equipment is jawdropping. Consider Russia’s stock of Soviet-era armour, built up over decades. More than half of the 7,300 tanks it had in storage are gone. Of those that remain, only 500 can be reconditioned quickly. By April Russia may run out of its T-80 tanks. Last year it lost twice as many artillery systems as in the preceding two years. Recruiting contract soldiers is getting more expensive. A general mobilisation would be politically risky. Public-opinion surveys clearly show that Russians want the war to end. Russia’s economy has withstood the blow of sanctions thanks to the professionalism of its central bank, high commodity prices and fiscal stimulus. Yet the reallocation of resources from productive sectors to the military complex has fuelled double-digit inflation. Interest rates are 21%, the highest level in two decades. A shortage of labour is chronic. Figures on the economy may not be reliable: the statistics authority constantly revises growth estimates, for example. But a report by the Central Bank and the Ministry of Economy, leaked to Reuters, warns a recession may come before inflation slows. Oleg Vyugin, a former deputy head of the central bank, says the government must soon choose between cutting military spending or galloping inflation. The sovereign wealth fund is being drained. According to Mikhail Zadornov, a former finance minister, its liquid assets have shrunk from 7.4% of GDP to below 2%. Exports, which were $417bn last year, are under pressure from sanctions and lower commodity prices. In December they fell by 20% year on year. Kirill Rogov of Re: Russia, a think-tank, argues that sanctions and a gradual price decline in the basket of exports, including steel and agriculture, would limit Russia’s capacity for aggression. Such vulnerabilities mean some in the West believe this is the worst possible time for America to be floating rapid concessions to the Kremlin. Even if the West cannot grant Ukraine ironclad security guarantees it could maintain sanctions in order to hold Russia at bay, Mr Rogov argues. Yet Mr Trump is focused on delivering on his promise to end the war quickly, not on constraining and deterring Russia for years. “We are finally getting Putin into the position where we wanted him to be for three years. It would be a terrible shame if we allow him to snatch victory from the teeth of defeat,” an American official says. Mr Putin believes Mr Trump is not just impatient, but manipulable. He has courted the American president with flattery and instant gratification: on February 11th he released Marc Fogel, an American citizen whom Russia arrested in 2021. Mr Putin’s underlying demands are unchanged. These include a non-aligned Ukraine, whose forces are limited in size and in terms of equipment, and which does not host Western troops. He wants recognition that Crimea and four other annexed Ukrainian provinces are part of Russia. Most importantly, as Mr Putin laid out in June 2024, “the essence of our proposal is not a temporary truce or ceasefire” that would leave sanctions in place and allow Ukraine to rearm. Instead Mr Putin wants a “definitive resolution” that would lift the Western embargo on Russia and allow it to reconstitute its army. Even if the hot war ends, Mr Putin will continue to try to cripple Europe and re-establish Russia’s sphere of influence. His goal is to break Ukraine and to dismantle the American-led post-1945 order, according to Steve Covington, an advisor to NATO’s Supreme Allied Commander Europe. As Mr Putin told his diplomats last year, “the entire system of Euro-Atlantic security is crumbling before our eyes.” Europe “is being marginalised in global economic development, plunged into chaos…and losing international
Portable insists he’s a mental health patient as Police declare him wanted
The Neuropsychiatric Hospital Aro, Abeokuta, Ogun State, have said it would be meeting tomorrow over the claim of Nigerian singer Habeeb Okikiola (Portable), stating he is a patient of the hospital. The claim of Portable comes after police in Ogun State declared him wanted. The “Zazu” singer in a video on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, said he is a patient at the Neuropsychiatric Hospital Aro and is currently receiving reatment for his mental health. Earlier, the singer was involved in an altercation with three officials from the Ogun State Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, Ota Zonal Office. The officers were on an enforcement exercise at Oke-Osa, Tigbo Ilu Ota, area of the state. The police have since declared Portable wanted for failing to honour the police invitation. In a video posted on his Instagram handle, Portable said: “I’m not a criminal. I’m not feeling fine. And I’m afraid. I don’t want them to lock me up. I’m going through pain all over my body. I’m a federal government liability. I didn’t go to school, I’m a fashion designer. “I fear government. I am a federal government liability. Then I’m a madman; I have medications that I usually take. You can confirm from Aro Hospital. I have a card that certifies me as one of their patients. “I am from Abeokuta, and they are taking care of me there. I am not a thief, I help people around me without even looking at their background.” Meanwhile, a source at the Neuropsychiatric Hospital Aro in Ogun state exclusively told our reporter that the hospital management will be meeting tomorrow over the claim of the singer and release an official press statment. The source said, “Tomorrow (Wednesday) morning, we will issue a press release about Portable. You will get an official statement,” the source said. By: Damilola Olufemi
US, Russia agree to ‘lay groundwork’ for ending Ukraine war
Russia and the United States have agreed to “lay the groundwork for future cooperation” aimed at strengthening bilateral relations and ultimately resolving the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. This agreement follows the first high-level discussions about the war since the early days of President Vladimir Putin’s invasion. The negotiations took place in Riyadh on Tuesday and extended over four-and-a-half hours. The U.S. State Department announced that both nations would appoint “high-level teams” to pursue an end to the war and establish a diplomatic channel for addressing various bilateral issues. U.S. National Security Adviser Mike Waltz emphasized the importance of achieving a lasting resolution: “This needs to be a permanent end to the war and not a temporary cessation as we’ve seen in the past.” Waltz, who was accompanied by Secretary of State Marco Rubio and President Donald Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff, noted that discussions would inevitably involve sensitive topics such as territorial disputes and security guarantees. “Those are just fundamental basics,” he remarked, adding that Trump was “determined to move very quickly” on these matters. However, the Riyadh talks have raised alarms in Kyiv and among European leaders, who fear that Trump may be inclined to settle the conflict on terms favorable to Putin. On the same day, Russia appeared to adopt a more rigid stance, as its foreign ministry ruled out any role for Europe in the Ukraine discussions and demanded that NATO rescind its open-ended invitation to Ukraine, originally extended in 2008. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed his surprise at the U.S.-Russia negotiations and indicated that he had rescheduled a planned visit to Saudi Arabia to accommodate the talks. “We don’t want a peace brokered behind the scenes without our involvement,” Zelenskyy stated, emphasizing that “without Ukraine, peace cannot be achieved.” In a statement that mirrored sentiments from the Russian side, the U.S. State Department indicated that the newly established diplomatic channel would “lay the groundwork for future cooperation” on mutual geopolitical interests and potential economic opportunities that could emerge from a successful resolution of the conflict in Ukraine. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov reported that both countries had agreed to “ensure the prompt appointment of ambassadors to each other’s capitals,” aiming to eliminate obstacles put in place by the previous Biden administration. These barriers included the expulsion of diplomats and issues concerning the seizure of Russian property and banking transactions. Lavrov noted that “our deputies will soon arrange a meeting to assess the need for removing these barriers.” While the discussions were characterized as constructive, questions remain about the concessions Russia might be willing to make. Rubio stated that any such steps would arise from “hard, difficult diplomacy” conducted in “closed rooms over a period of time.” He insisted, “No one is being sidelined here,” adding that the European Union would eventually need to be involved due to the sanctions they have imposed. During an emergency summit convened to formulate a unified response to the U.S.-Russian talks, European leaders expressed differing views on the prospect of deploying peacekeeping forces to Ukraine. While the UK showed willingness to send troops, countries like Germany, Italy, Poland, and Spain expressed hesitation. The Russian foreign ministry responded by stating that Moscow was “categorically opposed” to any European peacekeeping deployment. Waltz confirmed that the U.S. was engaging in “shuttle diplomacy,” having consulted with Zelenskyy and French President Emmanuel Macron, and noted that Trump is scheduled to meet with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer next week. He rejected the notion that U.S. allies had not been consulted regarding these talks. The Riyadh meeting marked the first of its kind between the U.S. and Russia since Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022. The sight of Russian and American flags displayed side by side outside the ornate venue underscored the extraordinary nature of the discussions. This development follows Trump’s recent outreach to Putin in an effort to expedite a resolution to the conflict—an initiative taken without prior consultation with Ukraine or its European allies. As the talks continue, Kyiv has made it clear that it will reject any agreements imposed without its involvement. Meanwhile, European nations find themselves scrambling to regain a place at the negotiating table. As Zelenskyy emphasized in his discussions with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, the need for Ukrainian participation in any peace process is imperative. In summary, while the recent U.S.-Russia talks represent a potential turning point in diplomatic relations, numerous challenges remain. The path toward a sustainable resolution of the Ukraine conflict is fraught with difficulties, and the involvement of Ukraine and European allies will be crucial in shaping the outcome. Both sides must navigate their differences carefully to create a framework that ensures lasting peace and stability in the region.
Turkey arrests nearly 300 PKK suspects, including opposition figures
Turkish police detained nearly 300 PKK suspects individuals allegedly connected to the outlawed militant group, the government announced on Tuesday. Among those apprehended are journalists, politicians, and academics, highlighting the broad scope of the crackdown that has drawn widespread concern. Over the past five days, police raids have targeted various locations across the country, reflecting the Turkish government’s intensified efforts to dismantle alleged networks associated with the PKK. This surge in detentions coincides with the ongoing removal of elected pro-Kurdish mayors from their positions, further escalating tensions in the region. The government claims these officials have ties to the PKK, an organization designated as a terrorist group by Turkey and its Western allies. The PKK has been engaged in an armed insurgency against the Turkish state since 1984, seeking greater Kurdish autonomy and rights. The conflict has resulted in the deaths of more than 40,000 people, making it one of the most protracted and deadly conflicts in modern history. As Turkey grapples with internal and external pressures, the recent detentions signal a renewed commitment to addressing what the government perceives as threats to national security. Notably, the individuals detained include members of the Peoples’ Democratic Congress (HDK) and its affiliated smaller leftist parties. The arrests also encompass academics and a prominent LGBTQ rights activist, underscoring the crackdown’s far-reaching implications for civil society in Turkey. Critics argue that the government’s actions are not only aimed at combating terrorism but also at stifling dissent and suppressing voices advocating for minority rights. This latest wave of arrests has sparked outrage among human rights organizations and opposition groups, who argue that the government is using the PKK’s designation as a terrorist organization to justify the suppression of legitimate political opposition. The government, however, maintains that its actions are necessary to ensure national security and stability in a region that has historically been fraught with conflict. As the Turkish government intensifies its efforts to eradicate PKK influence, there are emerging signs that the long-standing conflict may be approaching a turning point. Recent discussions have hinted at the possibility of renewed peace talks aimed at resolving the decades-long strife. However, the ongoing crackdown on dissent raises questions about the government’s commitment to genuine dialogue and reconciliation with the Kurdish population. The PKK’s demands for greater autonomy and rights for Kurds in Turkey have long been a contentious issue, and the government’s hardline approach may further alienate Kurdish communities. Observers warn that without addressing the underlying grievances and fostering an inclusive political environment, Turkey risks perpetuating cycles of violence and unrest. As Turkey navigates this complex landscape, the international community watches closely, urging the government to uphold human rights and engage in constructive dialogue with all segments of society. The recent detentions serve as a stark reminder of the challenges facing Turkey as it seeks to balance national security concerns with the imperatives of democracy and human rights. In conclusion, the detention of 282 suspects linked to the PKK marks a significant moment in Turkey’s ongoing struggle with Kurdish militancy and political dissent. As the government intensifies its crackdown, the implications for civil society, political representation, and the prospects for peace remain uncertain. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether Turkey can navigate these challenges and move toward a more inclusive and peaceful future.
Lebanon calls for complete israeli withdrawal from territory
Lebanon has formally demanded that Israel withdraw all its military forces from Lebanese territory, stressing that any remaining troop presence would constitute an “occupation.” This urgent call comes as Tuesday marked the deadline for Israel to complete its withdrawal under a U.S.-brokered agreement aimed at ending a devastating offensive in southern Lebanon. The conflict, which began in September, followed months of cross-border skirmishes between Israel and the militant group Hizbollah. The ceasefire deal, reached in November, brought an end to the most intense fighting between Israel and Hizbollah in nearly two decades. According to the terms of the agreement, Israel was initially given 60 days to withdraw its troops, a timeline that was subsequently extended by three weeks last month. However, Israeli officials have accused the Lebanese army of failing to deploy quickly enough to prevent Hizbollah from re-establishing its presence in the region. On Monday, Israeli military officials announced that troops would remain stationed at five “strategic” locations in southern Lebanon. They characterized this decision as part of last year’s U.S.-brokered agreement that ended months of conflict. An Israeli military spokesperson referred to the remaining positions as “temporary deployments” that provide critical “vantage points” over Israeli communities across the border. Israeli authorities claimed that this move had been “agreed upon” with the U.S.-led ceasefire monitoring mechanism established as part of the truce. However, it remains unclear whether Israel’s decision was solely approved by Washington or if other members of the monitoring mechanism, including France, the United Nations, and the Lebanese government, were also in agreement. Top U.N. officials in Lebanon expressed disappointment, stating that “another delay” in fully implementing the ceasefire agreement was not what they had anticipated. They underscored that this situation constitutes a violation of U.N. Resolution 1701, which governs the terms of the ceasefire. While Israeli forces have withdrawn from populated areas in southern Lebanon, the Lebanese Armed Forces are deploying under challenging conditions. In response to these developments, Lebanon’s president, prime minister, and speaker of parliament announced that they would escalate their complaint to the U.N. Security Council, urging action against ongoing “Israeli violations” and demanding an immediate withdrawal of Israeli troops. Israel launched a fierce air and ground assault against Hizbollah after the Iran-backed group began firing into Israeli territory following Hamas’s attack from Gaza on October 7, 2023. The Israeli campaign devastated Hizbollah’s arsenal and significantly impacted its leadership, resulting in the deaths of key figures including secretary-general Hassan Nasrallah. The conflict resulted in over 4,000 deaths in Lebanon and more than 140 Israeli casualties, displacing over one million people throughout Lebanon and nearly 60,000 Israelis from border regions. Despite the ceasefire, Israel has continued to conduct strikes against Hizbollah and other targets in Lebanon, with incidents reported as recently as this weekend. As Israeli troops begin to withdraw, Lebanese soldiers have started moving into the areas vacated by Israeli forces, clearing roadblocks and searching for unexploded ordnance. While some residents are returning to areas deemed safe, many find only rubble where their homes once stood, highlighting the devastating toll of the prolonged conflict.
IGP donates gunboats to Rivers to boosts security, warns against misuse
The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has donated six gunboats to the Rivers State Police Command to strengthen security on waterways. The launching exercise took place on Tuesday, at Abonnema Wharf. Representing the IGP, Deputy Inspector General of Police Operations (DIG), Ali Ali, emphasised that the boats must be strictly used for security purposes and not for private protection services. “the IGP office was inundated with complaints from people of Bonny complaining of sea piracy armed robbery along the waterways,” Ali stated. This came following several attacks on the waterways. He stressed that a safer environment would attract investors, create jobs, and boost the economy. “The Nigerian marine domain is a major contributor to economy of the nation. For effective policing of this area, there is need for visibility patrol and apprehension of criminals, hence the donation of the gunboats,” he added. Read Also: Rivers boat mishap: 19 rescued, 3 dead including toddler Ali urged the marine unit to maintain the equipment properly and use them responsibly. “These equipments is not to be deployed for private security guard, is to combat insecurity on waterways, not to make money for individuals at the expense of the safety of the general publiv,” he warned. Representing Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Secretary to the State Government, Tammy Danagogo, expressed appreciation for the donation. He acknowledged the police’s efforts in maintaining law and order and reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to security. “We extend our heart felt gratitude to the IGP and President who enabled him,” Danagogo stated. The Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG), Zone 16, Yenagoa, Adebola Hamzat, described the initiative as a major step in improving security beyond land operations. Rivers State Commissioner of Police (CP), Olugbenga Adepoju, also acknowledged the challenges faced on the waterways and assured the public that the boats would be used effectively to combat crime.
Clark’s exit: Obasanjo, Tompolo, diaspora Ijaw mourn
By Alade Adisa Former President Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, High Chief Government Ekpemupolo (Tompolo), and the Ijaw Diaspora Council (IDC) were among the individuals and groups who mourned the passing of former Federal Minister of Information, Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark. Obasanjo, in his statement, lamented the depletion of Nigeria’s ranks of patriotic leaders, particularly at such a crucial time when their wise counsel and rich experience are greatly needed. In his condolence message on the passing of Chief Clark, barely four days after the demise of Chief Ayo Adebanjo, Obasanjo described the late elder statesman as a great brother and friend, a seasoned economist, a tested administrator, an accomplished politician, and a revered community leader. Obasanjo’s Tribute to Clark In a statement made available to newsmen by his Special Assistant on Media, Kehinde Akinyemi, Obasanjo noted that Clark had an undying love for his people and was one of the most articulate and vocal champions of improved conditions for oil-bearing states. According to the former president: “I received yet another shocking and sad news of the passing of a great brother and friend, a frontline lawyer, a seasoned economist, a tested administrator, an accomplished politician, and a revered community leader, Chief Edwin Clark. It was shocking because we lost Chief Ayo Adebanjo, another prominent and illustrious son of Nigeria, just about four days ago. Indeed, the ranks of the nation’s patriotic leadership are fast depleting, particularly at this crucial stage in our nation’s history when their wise counsel and rich experience are greatly needed. There is no gainsaying the fact that Chief Clark rendered an eventful service to the nation as Commissioner for Education and Finance in the former Midwestern State between 1968 and 1974, and his tenure as the official spokesman of the Federal Government in 1975 cannot go unrecognized. I remember him as a close colleague in the Cabinet of General Yakubu Gowon. As a Senator of the Federal Republic representing the Delta Senatorial Zone in 1983, it is on record that he was in the vanguard of the advocacy for minority rights.” Obasanjo stressed that Clark remained a fierce advocate for the Niger Delta and its people, urging peace and stability while championing issues of justice, equity, and self-governance. “Even at an advanced age, Chief Clark never relented in his dedication to national service. In 2021, he willingly joined the Committee for the Goodness of Nigeria (CGN), which was convened by me alongside His Eminence Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, His Eminence John Cardinal Onaiyekan, and General Abdusalami Abubakar, to address pressing issues of national unity, security, peace, economic revitalization, and youth empowerment. There is no doubt that his passing has left a significant void, not only within his family and the Niger Delta region but across Nigeria at large. However, we must be consoled by the fact that Chief Clark lived a life dedicated to public service, integrity, and justice. His legacy will forever be remembered and honored.” Tompolo’s Tribute to Clark High Chief Government Ekpemupolo (Tompolo), Chairman of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited (TSSNL), also mourned the passing of Clark, describing him as “a fearless voice for the Niger Delta.” In his tribute, Tompolo said: “Nigeria has lost a unique and potent voice from the South-South geopolitical zone—a gift from God. His death has left a leadership vacuum in the country. Chief Clark was a democratic and socio-economic crusader, a strong and irrepressible leader who always spoke truth to power. He was a father to the fatherless, a voice for the voiceless, and a fearless advocate for justice and development in the Niger Delta. We will miss him dearly.” Tompolo further prayed for God’s strength and comfort for Clark’s family and all those affected by his loss. Ijaw Diaspora Council’s Tribute Similarly, the Ijaw Diaspora Council (IDC) joined millions of Nigerians in mourning Chief Clark, describing him as “a colossus of justice, a custodian of truth, and a resolute voice against oppression.” In a statement signed by its President, Prof. Mondy Selle Gold, IDC honored Clark’s unwavering advocacy for justice and self-determination. “With profound sorrow yet immense gratitude for a life supremely well-lived, we extend our deepest condolences on the passing of our revered father, leader, and titan of justice, Chief Edwin Kiagbodo Clark. The mighty Iroko has fallen, yet its shadow lingers, cast long and firm over the annals of our collective memory. A colossus of justice, a custodian of truth, a resolute voice against oppression—his journey was one of relentless advocacy, profound wisdom, and unyielding commitment to justice, equity, and self-determination. We recall with reverence our meeting with Chief Clark on August 20, 2024, when he graciously granted the Ijaw Diaspora Delegation, led by Dr. T. J. Bozimo, the esteemed approval to document the biography of Major Isaac Adaka Boro. His dedication to preserving the history of our heroes is a testament to his belief in ensuring that the legacies of our forebears remain intact for future generations. Today, the drums of the creeks are hushed in solemn reverence. The tides murmur his name in sorrowful tribute. The Niger Delta wails, for a beacon of justice has been extinguished, and an era of titanic statesmanship has drawn to a close. Though his earthly voyage is now complete, the struggle endures. For those who tread the path of righteousness never truly depart—they become the guiding stars for those who follow. May the celestial tides bear him home with grace, and may the ancestors receive him in a chorus of honor. Rest in power, Chief (Dr.) Sen. Edwin Kiagbodo Clark, OFR, CON.” A Nation Mourns As Nigeria bids farewell to Chief Edwin Clark, his legacy as a political colossus, fearless activist, and champion of minority rights will remain indelible in the country’s history. His passing signifies the end of an era, but his contributions to national development, democracy, and Niger Delta advocacy will continue to inspire generations to come. His burial arrangements are yet to be announced by his family. Read Also: Edwin Clark’s legacy: Championing Niger Delta
Meet 94 year-old Nigerian who enrolled for UTME
To fulfil his lifelong dream of pursuing higher education, Adedapo Idowu, a 94-year-old man, has reportedly enrolled for the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) conducted by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB). JAMB is responsible for conducting the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) for aspiring students across Nigeria. In a featured JAMB bulletin, Mr. Idowu expressed his excitement about finally pursuing academic excellence after many years of waiting. “Age is just a number when it comes to determination. I can now attain my dream of higher education at an advanced age,” Idowu said. He praised JAMB for its seamless registration process and the integration of the National Identity Number (NIN), which he believes ensures that everyone interested in acquiring knowledge faces no limitations. Oldest JAMB Candidate in History Findings by NEW DAILY PRIME revealed that Mr. Idowu is the oldest individual ever to enroll for the JAMB examination, setting a new record for academic ambition in Nigeria. Expressing confidence in taking this year’s UTME, he stated:“The registration staff made me feel a sense of belonging through their warm reception at the registration venue.” According to the Punch, the 94-year-old man has encouraged aspiring students to prioritize competence and satisfaction in their pursuit of knowledge. So far, over 700,000 candidates, including about 11,000 underage applicants, have registered since UTME registration commenced on January 31, 2025. If Mr. Idowu passes the JAMB, he will likely graduate at the age of 98 for four years University course. However, it remains uncertain whether he will use the certificate to find a job or pursue further studies after his graduation. His remarkable journey serves as an inspiration, proving that age is never a barrier to education and lifelong learning. Read Also: Education Ministry clarifies proposal on 12-year basic education system
