Ibadan Explosion Relief Funds: Oyo Government Reveals N30 Billion Federal Intervention Fund Still Untouched Over a Year After Bodija Blast

The Oyo State government has confirmed that the N30 billion released by the Federal Government for post-explosion relief following the January 16, 2024 Bodija explosion in Ibadan remains unused, more than a year after it was deposited in a dedicated account.

According to a statement on Thursday, while President Bola Tinubu approved N50 billion for intervention, only N30 billion has been released, with the remaining N20 billion yet to be disbursed. The released funds are kept intact in a dedicated Oyo State Infrastructure Support Account at First Bank of Nigeria (No. 2045199879) to ensure transparency and proper management.

The government explained that it deliberately refrained from spending the funds because the remaining N20 billion has not been released and due to ongoing uncertainties surrounding the approval process.

The disclosure follows criticism from the African Action Congress (AAC), Oyo State Chapter, which accused Governor Seyi Makinde’s administration of lacking transparency in handling the relief funds. Reports suggested that only ₦4.5 billion had been approved for compensation to victims, sparking public concern over the remaining N45.5 billion.

The Bodija explosion, caused by illegally stored explosive devices, devastated the Old Bodija residential area, resulting in multiple fatalities, injuries, and damage to over 230 properties. Governor Makinde’s administration has emphasized that the N30 billion remains untouched as it awaits the release of the balance to ensure proper relief and resettlement for affected families.

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#IbadanExplosion #OyoStateRelief #FederalFundsUntouched

Stop Treating Nigerians Like ATMs” — AAC FCT Chairman Warns of Mass Hardship, Slams Tinubu’s Tax Policies as ‘Declaration of War’ on the Poor in 2026

The Chairman of the African Action Congress (AAC) in the Federal Capital Territory, Agena Robert Ande, has issued a strong warning that Nigeria is heading into a “year of reckoning” in 2026, accusing President Bola Tinubu’s administration of imposing a harsh and suffocating tax regime that disproportionately affects poor and vulnerable citizens. In a New Year statement, Ande described the government’s tax policies as exploitative, insisting that nearly everything Nigerians rely on for survival is now taxed.

He rejected official claims that recent tax reforms are designed to target the wealthy, arguing instead that the rich evade taxes through offshore arrangements while ordinary Nigerians pay through Value Added Tax on food, fuel, data, transport and other essentials. According to the AAC chairman, subsidy removal has worsened living conditions nationwide, with transport costs soaring and food prices tripling, further pushing citizens into poverty.

Ande also criticized the student loan scheme, saying it traps young graduates in debt due to high interest rates and bureaucratic barriers that exclude the most marginalized. He accused the political elite of manipulating public sentiment by weaponising poverty to silence criticism, warning that desperation created by poverty fuels gullibility and social instability.

Questioning accountability, the AAC leader demanded transparency in the use of tax revenues, pointing to poor infrastructure, failing healthcare systems and dilapidated schools as evidence that increased taxation has not translated into development. He called for the removal of VAT on essential goods and services, insisting that luxury items—not basic livelihoods—should be taxed.

Describing the tax policies as a “declaration of war against ordinary Nigerians,” Ande urged citizens to resist deception, organize politically and hold leaders accountable through civic engagement and the ballot. He concluded by warning that silence equals complicity, stressing that 2026 presents Nigerians with a choice to reject policies that deepen hardship and inequality.

AAC Raises Alarm Over Neglect in FCT’s Pai-Ward Communities, Announces Sydney Godwin as Councillorship Candidate

The African Action Congress (AAC) has expressed concern over the prolonged neglect of Pai-Ward communities in the Kwali Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory. Residents of villages including Pai, Checheyi, Kuchi-chacha, Tatu, Leleyi Bassa, and Leleyi Gwari reportedly lack electricity, functional healthcare facilities, and clean water access. In response, the AAC has named Sydney Usman Godwin, popularly known as Comrade Sydney, as its candidate for the upcoming February 21 councillorship election. The party highlighted Godwin’s strong grassroots advocacy and pledged to focus on providing basic amenities, improving road infrastructure, promoting economic empowerment, and ensuring transparent governance. AAC urged residents to support the campaign, promising meaningful change and improved living conditions.

AAC Demands Oyo Governor Explain ₦4.5 Billion Bodija Explosion Relief Despite Alleged ₦50 Billion Federal Support

The African Action Congress (AAC) Oyo State chapter has called on Governor Seyi Makinde to clarify the disbursement of relief funds to victims of the January 16, 2024 Bodija explosion in Ibadan. Reports indicate that only ₦4.5 billion was officially approved for compensation, despite claims that ₦50 billion was released by the federal government. AAC Chairman Kayode Babayomi accused the state government of a lack of transparency and financial impropriety, urging a detailed explanation on the remaining ₦45.5 billion allegedly allocated for the victims.

AAC Chairman Warns Against US Airstrikes in Sokoto, Cautions Nigeria on Sovereignty and Long-Term Instability

The African Action Congress (AAC) Chairman for the FCT, Agena A. Robert, has warned Nigerians against celebrating recent U.S. airstrikes on alleged terrorist targets in Sokoto State. He cautioned that foreign military intervention risks undermining Nigeria’s sovereignty and could lead to long-term instability. In a statement titled “A Wake-Up Call for Nigerians: Don’t Trade Sovereignty for Short-Term Gains,” Robert argued that such strikes make Nigeria a potential battleground for global power interests and criticized the government for appearing merely “notified, not consulted.” He emphasized that foreign powers exploit conflicts rather than solve them, urging Nigerians to seek local solutions, strengthen regional cooperation via ECOWAS and Lake Chad Basin partners, and hold the Presidency accountable for approving foreign military operations. Robert stressed that addressing terrorism requires tackling root causes like poverty, corruption, and governance failures, rather than relying solely on airstrikes.

AAC Accuses Tinubu Government of Legalising Poverty with Altered Tax Laws, Calls for People-Centred Economic Policies

The African Action Congress (AAC) has condemned the Tinubu administration for allegedly altering Nigeria’s tax laws in a way that punishes ordinary citizens while benefiting the elite. In a statement signed by National Publicity Secretary Rex I. Elanu, the party described the move as “economic violence” that worsens poverty amid insecurity, unemployment, and failing public services. The AAC argued that the tax system has long been unjust and called for immediate suspension of regressive tax measures, full fiscal transparency, and people-centred policies prioritising job creation, living wages, healthcare, education, and infrastructure.

AAC Calls for Shutdown of Owerri “Tiger Base” Police Facility, Demands Justice Over Alleged Torture and Extrajudicial Killings

The African Action Congress (AAC) has urged Nigerians to support the Coalition Against Police Tiger Base Impunity (CAPTI) following a report detailing torture, extrajudicial killings, and human rights abuses at the Owerri police facility. The party demands the immediate closure of Tiger Base, prosecution of implicated officers including ACP Oladimeji Adeyeyiwa, independent investigations, reparations for victims, and comprehensive police reforms with civilian oversight. AAC’s call to action emphasizes solidarity across civil society, workers, students, and the diaspora to hold authorities accountable and end systemic police brutality.

AAC Accuses Tinubu Government of Human Rights Abuses, Demands Shutdown of Imo Police Tiger Base

The African Action Congress (AAC) has accused President Bola Tinubu’s administration of enabling widespread human rights abuses by security agencies, calling for the immediate closure of the Imo Police Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Unit, popularly known as Tiger Base. In a statement signed by the party’s spokesperson, Rex I. Elanu, the AAC alleged that the facility has been associated with unlawful detentions, enforced disappearances, torture, and extrajudicial killings—particularly targeting South-East residents.
The party also condemned the reported killing of 10 women protesters by Nigerian Army personnel in Adamawa State, describing the incident as a grave violation of citizens’ rights. AAC demanded independent investigations into both the Imo and Adamawa incidents and urged Nigerians to resist what it calls systemic oppression under the Tinubu administration, insisting that a revolutionary alternative is needed to protect citizens’ dignity and safety.

AAC Inaugurates New NWC, Launches Renewed Push to ‘Rescue Nigeria’ from Bad Governance

The African Action Congress (AAC) has inaugurated a new National Working Committee (NWC), unveiling a renewed revolutionary agenda aimed at rescuing Nigeria from corruption, insecurity, poverty, and failed leadership.
In a statement by National Publicity Secretary Rex Elanu, the party said the new NWC represents a bold, people-centered force committed to grassroots mobilization, ideological clarity, anti-poor policy resistance, and national liberation.
The AAC called on workers, youths, students, professionals, and Nigerians in the diaspora to join its movement, insisting that the ruling political class has failed and that true liberation must be organised and demanded by the people.


#AACNigeria

#GoodGovernance

#PoliticalReform

AAC Delta Chapter Disowns Maxwell Ogor, Warns Against Attempt to Hijack Party Structure

The Delta State chapter of the African Action Congress (AAC) has disowned Comrade Maxwell Ogor, labeling him an impostor attempting to unlawfully claim the position of state chairman. The party reaffirmed Temitope Iwalola as the only legitimate Delta AAC Chairman and condemned Ogor’s alleged bid to leverage Omoyele Sowore’s re-election to validate a false leadership claim. The chapter urged the public to disregard any statements issued by Ogor, describing his actions as political misrepresentation and internal sabotage.

#AAC #DeltaPolitics #PartyLeadership

Lagos Police Defy Court Order, Insist on Arresting Sowore Over Alleged Plan to Incite Protest

The Lagos State Police Command has maintained its stance on arresting political activist and former presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), Omoyele Sowore, over an alleged plan to incite violent protests in Lagos — despite a court order restraining the police from doing so.

Last Wednesday, Justice Musa Kakaki of the Federal High Court, Lagos, had issued an interim injunction barring the police and other security agencies from arresting, harassing, or declaring Sowore wanted, following an application filed by the activist.

However, during a strategic meeting at the police headquarters in Ikeja, Commissioner of Police Olohundare Jimoh stated that Sowore’s arrest “still stands,” accusing the activist of ignoring official invitations.

“He never showed up. If you are declared wanted, you are to report to the nearest police station, not call me over the phone,” the CP said.
“Any officer who sights him — whether on the road, in a restaurant, or elsewhere — should arrest him and bring him to the State CID for proper investigation.”

Jimoh said security operatives recently intercepted over 300 individuals allegedly mobilising for a violent protest on the Third Mainland Bridge, arresting 13 suspects and recovering a vehicle loaded with loudspeakers and a generator.

The Commissioner dismissed social media criticism, calling it “ignorance of the law,” and emphasized that maintaining order was his constitutional duty.

“Anybody who is not pleased can go to court. As CP, I will continue to act within the powers of the law to protect Lagosians. We won’t allow enemies of progress to drag Lagos into chaos,” he declared.


Jimoh further insisted he had not been formally served any court order restraining the arrest.

“Once I am served, I’ll comply immediately,” he assured, while directing all Area Commanders and DPOs to arrest Sowore anywhere he is found — except inside a courtroom.


The police boss concluded that no individual or group would be allowed to “destabilise the peace of Lagos under the guise of protest.”

Police insist on arrest of Sowore over alleged plan to incite violent protest in Lagos.

The Lagos State Police Command has reiterated its intention to arrest political activist and former presidential candidate of African Action Congress, AAC, Omoyele Sowore, over alleged plans to incite violent protests in Lagos.

This is coming despite the clear orders of Justice Musa Kakaki of a Federal High Court, Lagos, last Wednesday, which restrained the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, and other security agencies from arresting, intimidating or declaring Sowore wanted.

The order followed an application by Sowore after reports that the Lagos State Police Command had allegedly declared him wanted in connection with unspecified allegations.

Delivering the ruling, the court granted an interim injunction restraining the respondents, particularly the Commissioner of Police, from “harassing, intimidating, threatening with arrest, or declaring the applicant wanted pending the determination of the substantive suit.”

But Lagos Commissioner of Police, Mr. Olohundare Jimoh, who spoke during a strategic security meeting at the command headquarters in Ikeja, yesterday, said despite Sowore’s invitation, he had failed to show up at the command headquarters.

He stated that the declaration was made in accordance with Section 215 (1, 4 and 5) of the Nigerian Constitution, which empowered the Commissioner of Police to maintain law and order, protect lives and property.

He added that despite an earlier letter from Sowore’s lawyer expressing his intention to bring Sowore to the command, none of them had shown up.

He said: “He never showed up, if you are declared wanted, you are to report to the nearest police station, not call me over the phone.

Anambra governorship election: “You’ll suffer” — AAC’s Ifemeludike alleges in new video as she warns Anambra residents against re-electing Governor Soludo.

African Action Congress (AAC) governorship candidate, Chioma Ifemeludike, has cautioned Anambra residents and alleged that they will “suffer” if they reelect Governor Chukwuma Soludo instead of voting for her in the November 8 election.

The Nollywood actress and producer criticized Soludo over the poor condition of roads in Awka, particularly Uche Ekwunife Crescent, which she described as “totally dilapidated.” She accused the governor of neglecting basic infrastructure while constructing a new Government House with “wide, paved roads for himself and his generations.”

Ifemeludike said Soludo’s administration has failed to deliver good governance or quality social amenities, claiming he is only interested in showmanship. “If you miss out, you will suffer for it because Soludo is not ready to provide real leadership,” she said.

In a Facebook post directed at the governor, she asked, “@ccsoludo, why are you afraid to repair the capital city’s bad roads? Awka shouldn’t look so rural and undeveloped. With FAAC, local allocations, and IGR, we should have Dubai/Taiwan-style infrastructure.”

She urged voters not to be deceived but to come out en masse to make a better choice on election day. “On November 8, you have a choice — and that choice is Chioma for governor 2025,” she declared.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) confirmed that 16 political parties will participate in the Anambra governorship election.

"We arrested Sowore in the spirit of fair play"— Police PRO Hundeyin reveals.

The Nigeria Police Force has explained the reason behind the arrest of human rights activist and former presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), Omoyele Sowore, stating that he was detained for allegedly violating a court order banning the #FreeNnamdiKanu protest in Abuja.

Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, confirmed on Thursday that Sowore was apprehended at the Federal High Court, Abuja, where he had reportedly led the protest calling for the release of IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu.

According to Hundeyin, 14 persons have so far been arrested in connection with the protest. He said Sowore’s name was mentioned by earlier detainees as the leader of the demonstration, prompting his arrest.

“He was arrested in contravention of a court order. If we charge some protesters to court and leave the person who led them, that would be unfair. In the spirit of fair play and justice, Sowore was arrested today,” Hundeyin said.

The police spokesman added that the activist would not be held for long and would be arraigned in court immediately, possibly within the same day.

Sowore, who previously spearheaded the #RevolutionNow movement, was said to have fled the scene on Monday when other protesters were taken into custody.

Nnamdi Kanu Opens Defence, Lists 23 Witnesses Including Wike, Sanwo-Olu and Ex-Military Chiefs.

Detained leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, has agreed to open his defence, marking a major turn in his long-running trial.

This comes just hours after protests in parts of Abuja led by Omoyele Sowore, presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC) in the 2023 elections, calling for Kanu’s release.

Kanu had earlier filed a motion challenging the court’s jurisdiction, but in a fresh application on Tuesday, October 21, he informed Justice James Omotosho that he was ready to defend himself, citing a previous court order directing him to begin on October 24, 2025.

He revealed plans to call 23 witnesses divided into two groups—“ordinary but material witnesses” and “vital and compellable witnesses”—to testify under Section 232 of the Evidence Act.

He also requested 90 days to conclude his defence, indicating he may now be representing himself instead of his legal team led by Chief Kanu Agabi (SAN).

Among those he intends to summon as witnesses are former Defence Minister Gen. Theophilus Danjuma (rtd), ex-Army Chief Gen. Tukur Buratai (rtd), Lagos Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Imo Governor Hope Uzodinma, FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, Works Minister Dave Umahi, former Abia Governor Okezie Ikpeazu, former Justice Minister Abubakar Malami (SAN), and ex-NIA DG Ahmed Rufai Abubakar.

Kanu said he would personally testify to “deny the allegations” and explain the political context of his actions, assuring the court that he would not waste its time and that “justice must be seen to be done.”

Meanwhile, on the same day, a magistrate court in Abuja ordered the remand of Kanu’s special counsel, Aloy Ejimakor, and 12 others who joined the protests demanding his release. 

They face charges of conspiracy, unlawful assembly, and public disturbance, and will appear in court again on October 24.

Free Nnamdi Kanu: More reactions trail Abuja protest.

The Free Nnamdi Kanu Protest’, convened by a former presidential candidate of the African Action Congress, AAC, Omoyele Sowore went on as scheduled on Monday across the Federal Capital Territory, FCT.

Sowore, who had mobilized many Nigerians from across the country to join the demonstration, planned that protesters would march to the Presidential Villa in Abuja to demand for Kanu’s release.

But Justice M.G. Umar, issued an order on October 17, 2025, in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/2202/2025 — Federal Republic of Nigeria v. Omoyele Sowore & 4 others, restraining the protesters and other groups from staging any form of demonstrations for Kanu’s release in certain areas within the FCT.

The ruling barred the respondents and any individuals or groups acting on their behalf from protesting within and around Aso Rock Villa, the National Assembly Complex, Force Headquarters, the Court of Appeal, Eagle Square, and Shehu Shagari Way.

In line with Justice Umar’s ruling on the protest, men of the Nigeria Police Force barricaded all roads leading to the areas mentioned by the ruling, thereby, frustrating Sowore and his fellow protesters from ensuring that their plans materialized.

While barricading the roads, the police also shot teargas canisters to scare commuters and possible protesters from using the roads.

Despite attempts by security operatives to stifle the protesters from carrying out their programme, Sowore and the demonstrators moved to other areas like Utako and Apo areas of Abuja where they protested.

In the course of the protest, the police arrested and detained Kanu’s brother, Prince Emmanuel; his Special Counsel, Aloy Ejimakor, and other protesters at the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Command CID.

U.S. Embassy Issues Security Alert Ahead of #FreeNnamdiKanu Protest in Abuja.

The United States Embassy in Abuja has issued a security advisory to its citizens ahead of the planned #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest scheduled for Monday, October 20, 2025, in the Federal Capital Territory.

In a statement released on Friday, the Embassy warned that the demonstration could cause disruptions, roadblocks, and possible violence. It urged Americans in Abuja to avoid protest zones and limit movement across the city.

“The U.S. Embassy in Abuja informs U.S. citizens that the ‘Free Nnamdi Kanu Now’ protest is expected to take place on Monday, October 20th, 2025. There may be traffic congestion, road closures, and potential confrontations between protesters and police near Eagle Square and the Central Business District,” the statement read.

The embassy also advised residents to take extra precautions, recommending that children stay home from school and domestic workers who travel from outside Abuja not report to work that day.

The alert follows the announcement by activist and former presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), Omoyele Sowore, who disclosed on October 9 via X (formerly Twitter) that the peaceful protest would be held at the Aso Rock Presidential Villa.

Sowore described the planned demonstration as a “historic” call for the release of Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

Kanu has been in custody since June 2021 after his controversial extradition from Kenya and is currently facing terrorism-related charges before the Federal High Court in Abuja.

You Don’t Want America To Speak On Your Terrorism Issues, But You Want Our Money – US Mayor Knocks Nigerians.

Republican Mayor of United States City of Blanco in Texas, Mike Arnold has mocked Nigeria for expressing anger over the United States comments on terrorism in the country while still appealing for financial aid.

Speaking on Monday, during an interview on Arise Television, he argued that it does not make sense that Nigeria does not want his country to speak on terrorism in the country but wants their money.

He questioned the reason why a country like Nigeria that is rich in mineral has to seek for help from other nations.

He said, “I don’t understand why a nation that is mineral rich as Nigeria has to go and beg for help to save her own people.

“Nigeria has plenty of resources to help her people get at least something where they can help get stability.

“Displaced people are denied stability, their homes are bulldozed with no warning. It is horrific.

“You don’t want the America to come here speak on terrorism but you want their money, that does not make sense to me whatsoever.”

Meanwhile, human rights activist and African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, has stated that the violence in Nigeria is not linked to the persecution of Muslims or Christians.

Presidency Issues Warning Over Planned Protest for Nnamdi Kanu’s Release.

The Presidency has issued a stern warning to rights activist and politician, Omoyele Sowore, over his plan to lead a protest in Abuja demanding the release of detained IPOB leader, Nnamdi Kanu.

Sowore, who was the presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC) in the 2023 elections, had announced that the march tagged #FreeNnamdiKanuNow would hold on October 20 at 7 a.m.

He described it as a “historic” rally aimed at compelling the government to free Kanu.

Reacting to the development, presidential aide Bayo Onanuga accused Sowore of trying to create chaos under the disguise of activism.

Writing on his verified X handle, @aonanuga1956, Onanuga said, “You are nothing more than an anarchist masquerading as a rights activist. You very well know that Nnamdi Kanu is facing trial for treason, and yet you want to cause a breakdown of law and order by mobilising for a protest. Is this the kind of revolution you envisage for Nigeria, where the rule of law will be violated and your idea of justice would be the law of the jungle?”

The presidential spokesman also criticised former Vice President Atiku Abubakar for supporting the planned protest, describing his position as reckless and unbecoming of a statesman. According to him, issues before the court cannot be settled through street actions.

He further stated that although the legal process may seem slow, the administration is committed to ensuring justice through the right channels.

“While the wheel of justice can sometimes be grindingly slow, partly caused by Kanu’s lawyers, Nnamdi Kanu will eventually get the justice he deserves for his alleged transgressions,” Onanuga added.

Sowore, known for his bold activism, has since maintained that the demonstration would proceed as planned.
He urged Nigerians to join him in demanding fairness for the detained IPOB leader.

“They Ignored My Calls” — Sowore Reveals Otti and Soludo’s Silence Over Nnamdi Kanu’s Detention

African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Omoyele Sowore, has revealed that his attempts to reach Abia State Governor Alex Otti and Anambra State Governor Charles Soludo over the continued detention of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), were unsuccessful.

In a post shared on his official X (formerly Twitter) account on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, Sowore said he reached out to the two Southeast governors as part of his efforts to rally key political leaders to unite in demanding Kanu’s release — but neither took his calls nor responded to his messages.

“I have tried reaching out personally to Dr. Alex Otti, Prof. Charles Chukwuma Soludo, and Mr. Peter Obi through his team today.
Alex Otti and Soludo neither took my calls nor responded to my messages,” Sowore wrote.



The activist and Sahara Reporters publisher added that while Otti and Soludo remained silent, he was able to connect with Hon. Obi Aguocha, a federal lawmaker from Abia State, who responded positively to his appeal for joint action.

Sowore also mentioned that he reached out to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, urging him and other national leaders to join the collective call for Kanu’s unconditional release.

His statement has since sparked intense debate online, with many Nigerians questioning the political unity and responsiveness of Southeast leaders regarding Kanu’s continued incarceration.