Shock as 250,000 sign petition to recall Senator Natasha in 5 days
By Alade Adisa Tongues have started wagging over the claim that 250,000 voters have signed a petition to recall Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan from the Senate. The main question raised is how 250,000 people managed to endorse the petition within just five days. Commenting on the development, political analyst Dr. Nnaemeka Onyeka Obiaraeri expressed doubt over the figure, questioning its feasibility. “This would translate to 50,000 people signing per day, which further breaks down to about 35 people signing per minute—assuming signatures were collected continuously over 24 hours with no breaks,” he said. He added that even the election that brought her into office recorded fewer than 120,000 total votes. “She scored about 57,000 votes; her main rival got around 51,000, and a third candidate had barely 4,000,” Obiaraeri noted. He warned against what he described as inordinate ambition aimed at silencing opposition and manipulating democratic processes to favor specific interests. The petition was submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Monday. Speculation is mounting that former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello may be eyeing the senatorial seat, despite currently facing fraud charges running into billions of naira. Bello reportedly went into hiding for several months after the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) initiated investigations shortly after he left office. Meanwhile, Justice Egwuatu of the Federal High Court, Abuja, has recused himself from the suit filed by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan against the Senate and the Senate President, which seeks to stop any move to suspend her from office. At the continued hearing on Tuesday, the judge cited a petition filed by Senate President Godswill Akpabio as the reason for stepping down from the case.
NOA urges shift from fear-based messaging to combat HIV/AIDS stigma in Nigeria
The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has called for a strategic shift in HIV/AIDS awareness campaigns, moving away from fear-based messaging to a more inclusive and stigma-free approach. The agency’s Director-General, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu of National Orientation Agency (NOA), emphasized the need to reframe HIV/AIDS as a manageable health condition, akin to hypertension and diabetes, rather than a death sentence. Speaking during a visit at the agency’s headquarters by the Director-General of the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA), Dr. Temitope Ilori, Issa-Onilu reaffirmed NOA’s commitment to leveraging its extensive grassroots network to amplify HIV prevention, treatment, and anti-discrimination campaigns. To tackle the rising case of HIV/AIDS, the NOA boss pledged the agency unwavering support as the fight continues. He also urged NACA to adopt innovative local strategies to sustain awareness efforts amid dwindling international funding, especially from U.S. government. Dr. Ilori acknowledged NOA’s impact and called for stronger collaboration on HIV/AIDS awareness. Read Also:Agency charges Nigerians on HIV/AIDs status She noted that many, especially the youth, underestimate the disease due to treatment success. Despite over two million Nigerians living with HIV, infections are rising, particularly among young people and children. She stressed the need for better public awareness and behavioral change to combat misinformation and enhance prevention.
Appointing local administrators unconstitutional, says legal expert
Amid escalating tensions in Rivers State, the appointment of a Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas (rtd), by President Bola Tinubu has sparked legal and constitutional debates. Recent reports claim that Ibas may be planning to appoint administrators across the 23 Local Government Areas (LGAs) in the state — a move that legal experts argue contradicts Nigeria’s constitutional provisions. A legal practitioner, Barrister Yusuf Temilola, has expressed strong opposition to these alleged plans, asserting that under the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, only democratically elected officials have the right to head local governments.“No individual or state government can lawfully oversee local government functions without an electoral mandate,” Temilola told New Daily Prime.He referenced Section 7 of the Constitution, which guarantees the autonomy of local governments and mandates their administration through elected councils. Temilola further cited recent decisions of the Supreme Court of Nigeria, including the case AG Fed v. AG Abia & Ors, which reaffirmed that the removal or appointment of local government chairmen without due process violates constitutional law.“Any administrator appointed without following due process — especially in the absence of democratic elections — is acting in breach of the Constitution,” he emphasized.His position echoes that of the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, who recently reaffirmed that no governor or appointee has the right to remove elected local government officials.“Such removal lies solely with the legislative arm of the local council,” the AGF said in a public statement. Legal Expert Denies Ibas’ Authority to Appoint LG OfficialsBarrister Temilola reiterated that Vice Admiral Ibas, despite being appointed as a Sole Administrator, lacks any constitutional authority to appoint local government chairmen or administrators. “It is not envisaged by law, nor is there any constitutional provision that permits such appointments by a state administrator. It contradicts both the letter and spirit of the Constitution,” he concluded.As the situation in Rivers State continues to unfold, legal experts and civil society alike are watching closely. The debate has reignited broader conversations around local government autonomy in Nigeria, democratic governance, and adherence to constitutional frameworks in resolving political crises. Damilola Olufemi
Nigeria, Canada sign bilateral Air Services Agreement to boost aviation cooperation
In a landmark move to enhance air connectivity between Nigeria and Canada, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has signed a Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) with Canadian authorities. The agreement was finalised today at the Ministry’s headquarters in Abuja, marking a significant milestone in Nigeria’s aviation sector. Keyamo clarified that the agreement is a code-share arrangement, rather than a full bilateral agreement. Under this arrangement, multiple airlines can market and sell seats on flights operated by another airline, allowing passengers to book flights under different airline codes. He also stated that Nigeria will designate airline operators to implement and benefit from the agreement. READ ALSO: Nigeria pushes for leading fish exporter status — Oyetola Expressing gratitude to the Canadian authorities, Keyamo noted that his counterpart in Canada had already signed the agreement. To minimize costs, he signed the document in Nigeria. He emphasised that the agreement will further strengthen diplomatic and economic ties between the two nations. The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, mni, commended Keyamo for his proactive approach and dedication to advancing Nigeria’s aviation industry. Welcoming the Canadian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Pasquale Salvaggio, Kana highlighted Nigeria’s position as Canada’s largest economic partner in Africa. He expressed confidence that the BASA agreement would benefit both nations by enhancing air travel and economic cooperation. In his remarks, Salvaggio thanked the Nigerian government for facilitating the agreement and expressed Canada’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations. He reiterated the Canadian government’s readiness to collaborate with Nigeria in advancing aviation partnerships. READ ALSO: Give Nigerians account of your service, Tinubu orders ministers Code-sharing agreements, such as the one signed today, allow airlines to expand their networks, improve connectivity, and streamline passenger travel without adding new flights. This agreement is expected to enhance travel options between Nigeria and Canada, promoting economic and cultural exchange.
INEC raises concerns, faults vague state, incompletion information of petitioners to recall Natasha
The Independent National Electoral Commission has faulted the recall petition of the suspended Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. The National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee of the electoral umpire, Sam Olumekun, admitted receiving the petition submitted yesterday by some individuals led by Charity Ijese and received by INEC’s Secretary, Rose Oriaran-Anthony. According to INEC, the petition which includes six bags of documents from than half of the 474,554 registered voters in the district covers 902 polling units across 57 registration areas and represents voters from five local government areas—Adavi, Ajaokuta, Ogori/Magongo, Okehi, and Okene. In a statement signed by Olumekun, on behalf of INEC, stated that the petitioners could not make available necessary contact information, such as their addresses, phone numbers and email addresses, as required under the Commission’s Regulations and Guidelines for Recall 2024. The commission noted that only phone number of lead petitioner was made available. It also slammed the petitioners for providing a wrong address such as listing “Okene, Kogi State” The INEC statement read in part, “The commission held its regular weekly meeting today, Tuesday, 25th March 2025. Among other issues, the meeting discussed the petition for the recall of the Senator representing Kogi Central Senatorial District. “The process of recall is enshrined in the 1999 Constitution, the Electoral Act 2022 as well as the commission’s detailed Regulations and Guidelines for Recall 2024, available on our website. All petitions will be treated in strict compliance with the legal framework. “The petition from Kogi Central Senatorial District was accompanied by six bags of documents said to be signatures collected from over half of the 474,554 registered voters spread across 902 Polling Units in 57 Registration Areas (Wards) in the five Local Government Areas of Adavi, Ajaokuta, Ogori/Magongo, Okehi and Okene. “The commission’s immediate observation is that the representatives of the petitioners did not provide their contact address, telephone number(s) and e-mail address(es) in the covering letter forwarding the petition through which they can be contacted as provided in Clause 1(f) of our Regulations and Guidelines. “The address given is ‘Okene, Kogi State’, which is not a definite location for contacting the petitioners. Only the telephone number of ‘the lead petitioner’ is provided as against the numbers of all the other representatives of the petitioners.” INEC, however, reiterates that the recall of a legislator is the prerogative of registered voters in a constituency who sign a petition indicating loss of confidence in the legislator representing them. “Once the petition meets the requirements of submission, as contained in our regulations, the commission shall commence the verification of the signatures in each Polling Unit in an open process restricted to registered voters who signed the petition only. “The petitioners and the member whose recall is sought shall be at liberty to nominate agents to observe the verification, while interested observers and the media will also be accredited. At each Polling Unit, signatories to the petition shall be verified using the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System,” the body said.
Britain gives go-ahead to new $13 billion Thames tunnel
Britain gave the green light on Tuesday to a new 10-billion-pound ($13 billion) road tunnel for the River Thames in southeast England, in its latest backing for an infrastructure project to help revive a sluggish economy. The Labour government has put speeding up the planning process to deliver new energy and transport projects at the heart of its growth agenda since it was elected last year, backing expansion at London’s Heathrow and Gatwick airports. When I said I would back the builders, not the blockers, I meant it,” Prime Minister Keir Starmer said on X. “Giving the Lower Thames Crossing the green light will drive growth and make journeys quicker, safer, and more reliable.” The Lower Thames Crossing, consisting of a tunnel and roads 23 kilometers (14.5 miles) in length, was granted development consent by Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander, the Planning Inspectorate said. The tunnel will connect Kent, south of the river, to Essex, on the north side, improving connectivity and providing more road capacity for goods to travel between ports and central and northern England. The idea for an additional crossing in this part of the river east of London was first mooted as far back as 1989. Formally proposed by the then-Labour government in 2009, the crossing has been held up as an example of the difficulties faced in trying to get infrastructure projects off the ground in Britain Planning can take years, involving multiple consultations with the need to satisfy what critics say can be overly stringent environmental concerns, and is often stalled by local community objections. Finance minister Rachel Reeves said in January that the government was committed to the Lower Thames Crossing, adding that it was exploring options to privately finance the project. Reeves is expected to announce a sharp downgrade to the UK’s economic growth forecasts this year when she provides a fiscal update on Wednesday. That, along with higher borrowing costs, is likely to force her to cut plans for spending spikes in coming years, potentially endangering government-funded projects. The estimated cost of the Lower Thames Crossing, which is expected to take six years to build, has now risen to 10 billion pounds from 5-7 billion pounds in 2017. The planning document for the project runs to 359,070 pages, equivalent to nearly 300 times the complete works of William Shakespeare. Formally proposed by the government in 2009, the crossing has been held up as an example of the difficulties faced in trying to get infrastructural projects off the ground in Britain.
Retail sales sink in March amid weak consumer confidence, CBI says
UK retail sales had slumped in March amid weak consumer confidence, according to the confederation of British industry latest distributive trades’ survey. This marked the sixth consecutive month of decline, with retailers expecting sales to fall again in April, but at a slower rate. The CBI’s retail sales balance fell to -41 in March from -23 in February. A balance is the weighted difference between the percentage of firms reporting an increase and those reporting a decrease. Sales for the time of year were deemed to be below seasonal norms in March, to a similar extent to February, with a balance of -36% in March versus -34% the month before. Martin Sartorius, principal economist at the CBI, said: “Annual retail sales volumes fell markedly in March and are expected to continue declining next month. Firms across the retail and wholesale sectors reported that global trade tensions and the Autumn Budget are weighing on consumer and business confidence, which is leading to reduced demand. “Tomorrow’s Spring Statement is likely to focus on the persistent challenges facing the UK economy, reinforcing the need for policies that boost businesses’ confidence to invest. “Reforming business rates, supporting the British Business Bank’s Growth Guarantee Scheme, and properly resourcing the Growth and Skills Levy could support businesses’ investment plans and drive the government’s growth ambitions.” Retailers and other businesses have complained about a 25 billion-pound ($32 billion) rise in employers’ social security contributions in the Labour government’s first budget last October as well as other cost increases due to come into force next month.
NGO raises TB awareness in Kaduna, targets communities
A Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) launched a public awareness campaign in Kaduna State to educate residents on the health risks of tuberculosis (TB), urging early detection, treatment, and preventive measures to curb its spread. Kadashi Initiatives on Equity, Health, Empowerment, and Education (KIEHEE) emphasized that healthy living—practicing abstinence from smoking and alcohol, along with proper dieting—helps prevent the spread. In marking this year’s World Tuberculosis Day, the Executive Director of KIEHEE, Amos Kadashi-Isuwa, on Monday educated residents on the disease’s risks, symptoms, and prevention, particularly among smokers. The targeted communities are Kanti Agah, Sabon Tasha, Angwan Durunwa, Tsauni, and Kurah in Chikun LGA. Read Also: First tuberculosis diagnostic test met prequalification — WHO The initiative used one-on-one discussions, flyers, and local languages to engage residents, traders, and commuters. He emphasized the link between smoking and TB, warning that delayed treatment could lead to drug resistance. “Tuberculosis is curable with proper treatment,” he said. He encouraged residents to utilize free TB testing at government health centers and recognize symptoms such as persistent cough, weight loss, night sweats, and fever. Kadashi-Isuwa also urged collaboration with local health centers and the involvement of influencers and religious leaders in awareness efforts. Community elder Mr. Bala Musa welcomed the initiative, pledging to spread awareness, particularly among children. The campaign also debunked myths, including the belief that TB is a spiritual attack.
Rivers police intensifies security operations, arrest suspected kidnappers
The Rivers State Police Command has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining law and order, as Commissioner of Police (CP) Olugbenga Adepoju commended the joint security forces for their efforts in ensuring peace across the state. Speaking at a press briefing on Tuesday, CP Adepoju emphasized that ongoing security operations are crucial to preventing a breakdown of law and order. He noted that the joint patrols by the police, armed forces, and other security agencies have been effective in deterring criminal activities. He assured residents that these security measures are temporary and will lead to a more peaceful environment. However, it was revealed that over the past week, security agencies have successfully foiled several criminal operations. On 16 March, suspected pipeline vandals attempting to detonate an oil pipeline at Aluu-Rumuekpe in Ikwerre Local Government Area (LGA) were neutralized. On 21 March, a raid along Omoku Road in Ahoada East LGA led to the arrest of eight suspected kidnappers and the rescue of six victims. Weapons, motorcycles, and communication equipment were recovered during the operation. Read Also: Police confirm release of JOSTUM students In another development, two suspects were arrested on 19 March in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni LGA (ONELGA) with explosives, including dynamites and detonating devices. Additionally, security operatives dismantled 30 illegal refining sites, destroyed crude oil reservoirs, and seized thousands of liters of stolen crude oil and illegally refined fuel. CP Adepoju urged the public to provide credible intelligence on criminal activities, emphasizing the importance of protecting national infrastructure and maintaining an environment conducive to economic growth. He also announced increased security deployments to track down criminal elements, particularly those using unregistered vehicles. A new State Operations Room has been established for real-time surveillance and rapid response. To enhance enforcement, a crackdown on unregistered and improperly marked vehicles will begin in seven days, with vehicle owners advised to comply with registration regulations before the deadline. The Rivers State Police Command reaffirmed its zero-tolerance stance against crime, warning that all offenders will be identified and prosecuted. CP Adepoju also called on parents and guardians to discourage their wards from engaging in criminal activities. Residents are encouraged to report suspicious activities through the following emergency contact lines, Control Room: 08032003514, 08098880134, Public Relations Officer (PPRO): 09014273818 and Crime Response Unit (CRU): 08120822987, 09035774814.
Flight returns to US after Pilot forgets passport mid-flight
Passengers aboard a United Airlines flight heading to China were unexpectedly delayed after the pilot’s forgotten passport led to the plane’s return to the United States. Flight UA198, a Boeing 787 with 270 people on board, had taken off from Los Angeles en route to Shanghai on Saturday afternoon. However, just after entering the Pacific Ocean, the aircraft abruptly turned around and headed back towards San Francisco, according to flight tracking data. United Airlines confirmed to AFP on Tuesday that the plane had to make an unscheduled stop in San Francisco because the pilot had left their passport behind. The airline stated that a new crew was arranged to continue the journey to Shanghai that evening. “Customers were provided with meal vouchers and compensation,” United Airlines added in their statement, although specifics regarding the compensation were not disclosed. The flight ultimately reached Shanghai’s Pudong International Airport around six hours later than scheduled, arriving just after midnight. The delay caused by the diversion meant that passengers arrived in Shanghai far later than originally anticipated. This incident comes amid widespread travel disruptions, including the ongoing shutdown at London’s Heathrow Airport, Europe’s busiest airport, which had faced its own setbacks due to a power outage the previous day. While United Airlines worked to ensure passengers’ comfort and provided compensation for the inconvenience, the unusual event is a reminder of the challenges involved in international air travel.
