EXCLUSIVE: A Bayelsa High Court has admitted the controversial “confessions” of domestic workers accused of stealing jewellery belonging to ex-First Lady Patience Jonathan — despite their testimony that the statements were extracted under torture.

The defendants — Golden Vivian, Vincent Olabiyi, Tamunosiki Achese and Emmanuel Aginwa — earlier told the court they were brutalised by officers of the notorious Operation Puff Adder before being forced to confess.

Prison and court insiders say the judge accepted the confessional evidence regardless of the torture allegations, raising fresh concerns about rights abuses and fairness in the high-profile trial.

#Bayelsa #PatienceJonathan #HumanRights #NigeriaCourt

Bayelsa Court Admits Controversial Confessions in Patience Jonathan Jewellery Theft Case Despite Torture Claims

The Bayelsa State High Court has accepted disputed confessional statements from domestic workers accused of stealing former First Lady Patience Jonathan’s jewellery, despite their detailed testimonies of torture by Operation Puff Adder operatives. The workers, who have spent over five years in detention, allege they were brutalised, forced to confess, and denied legal access. With one defendant already dead and no officers investigated for torture, the case—ongoing since 2019—has been adjourned to January 2026 amid rising concerns over judicial fairness and human rights violations.



#PatienceJonathan

#Bayelsacourt

NIGERIAN ARMY SHATTERS TERROR NETWORKS: 8 NEUTRALIZED, 51 ARRESTED, 27 RESCUED, ARSENAL RECOVERED

In a decisive nationwide offensive, the Nigerian Army delivered major blows to criminal networks between 29 November and 1 December 2025, neutralizing eight terrorists, arresting 51 suspects, rescuing 27 victims and seizing a substantial cache of weapons and illicit items across several operations.

In the North East, troops of 151 Task Force Battalion, 152 Task Force Battalion and 192 Battalion in Borno State neutralized four ISWAP/JAS terrorists in ambush and clearance operations, recovering three AK-47 rifles, four AK-47 magazines containing 70 rounds of 7.62mm, 31 rounds of 12.7mm, 171 rounds of 7.62x54mm linked, 183 rounds of 7.62x51mm NATO, an AK-47 working part and a Baofeng radio. Troops also rescued no victims in these operations but responded effectively to infiltration attempts around Chibok.

In Plateau, Taraba, Benue, Kogi and Kaduna States, troops under Operation WHIRL STROKE and Operation ENDURING PEACE rescued 3 victims in Panyam, 1 in Zaki-Biam, 6 adult females and 1 minor (7 total) in Tsanyawa/Kankia, 4 victims in Yagba West, 1 victim in Odo Eri, 2 victims in Sanga LGA and 2 adult females in Isoko North, bringing the total rescued in the North Central and North West theatres to 20 victims. In these operations, troops arrested 2 suspected kidnappers in Panyam, 4 human traffickers in Sardauna, 3 extremist collaborators in Ukum, 13 illegal miners in Lau, 2 cultists in Delta and 1 gunrunner in Plateau. Combined with 25 drug suspects arrested in Bayelsa and Rivers, troops arrested a total of 51 suspects across the regions.

In Taraba, troops also neutralized 4 violent extremists and recovered one fabricated AK-47 rifle, three Dane guns, 25 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition and two motorcycles during a communal-clash response in Karim Lamido. Troops in Delta State recovered one locally made pistol, two cartridges and five mobile phones while arresting two suspected cultists. Security forces further recovered 76 rustled cattle in Plateau State and handed them back to their rightful owners.

In the South-South, anti-oil theft operations led to the shutdown of an illegal refining site with about 1,000 litres of stolen crude, while joint raids with NDLEA led to the arrest of 25 drug-related suspects. Meanwhile, in Kaduna State, troops intercepted vehicles transporting 5,000kg of gelatine explosives, 3,000m of cordtex fuse, 10 electric detonators and 1,000m of connecting wire, prompting ongoing investigations involving other security agencies.

Additionally, troops arrested notorious gunrunner Shuaibu Isah (aka Alhaji) who was attempting to receive 1,000 rounds of ammunition from accomplices still being trailed. His arrest marked one of the most significant breakthroughs of the period.

The Nigerian Army reaffirms its commitment to safeguarding all Nigerians and ensuring that terrorists, criminals and their collaborators have no safe haven.

Bayelsa State Government Acquires New Aircraft

EFCC Declares Timipre Sylva Wanted Over $14.8 Million Scandal — Aide Cries Political Witch-Hunt

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has declared former Bayelsa State Governor and ex-Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Chief Timipre Sylva, wanted over an alleged case of conspiracy and dishonest conversion of $14,859,257.

According to a statement by EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale, the funds in question were reportedly part of an investment made by the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) into Atlantic International Refinery and Petrochemical Limited.

The EFCC urged anyone with useful information about Sylva’s whereabouts to contact its nearest office or the police.

However, Julius Bokoru, Sylva’s Special Assistant on Media and Public Affairs, dismissed the EFCC’s move as a “digitally orchestrated political attack” designed to discredit his principal.

“It is, to say the least, curious that what was once whispered as a coup matter has now metamorphosed into a financial allegation,” Bokoru said.
“No formal communication was made to him — just a sudden digital proclamation meant to inflame public sentiment.”


Bokoru alleged that “shadowy political forces” threatened by Sylva’s influence were behind the renewed attacks. He confirmed that the former minister is currently in the United Kingdom for medical treatment and would honor the EFCC’s invitation upon his return.

“Chief Timipre Sylva has clean hands. He has not diverted a single dollar, and the refinery project is transparent, legitimate, and verifiable,” Bokoru insisted.


The media aide urged supporters to remain calm, stressing that “truth, though often delayed, remains immutable.”

In October, security operatives reportedly raided Sylva’s residences in Abuja and Bayelsa, arresting his brother amid allegations linking him to a failed coup plot against President Bola Tinubu — claims his camp has also branded politically motivated.

Political Earthquake in Bayelsa: Governor Diri Dumps PDP for APC, Cites Tinubu’s “Love for Ijaw People”

Bayelsa’s political landscape has witnessed a stunning shift as Governor Douye Diri officially announced his defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) — a move that has seen most members of the State House of Assembly follow his lead.

The Governor explained that his decision was not driven by personal ambition but by a desire to align Bayelsa State with the federal government for accelerated development and better opportunities for the people.

Speaking at the defection ceremony, Diri praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration for its “unprecedented commitment” to the Niger Delta’s development, describing it as proof of the President’s affection for the Ijaw nation.

“Government has shown us the will and the direction that they love the Ijaw people and Bayelsa State,” Diri declared during a live broadcast on Channels Television.


He highlighted three major developmental milestones achieved through federal partnership as justification for his defection:

1. Lagos–Calabar Coastal Road: A long-awaited project now actively pursued under President Tinubu, described by Diri as “the economic lifeline of the Ijaw people.”


2. Nembe–Brass Road Project: Once stalled, but revived after Tinubu’s swift approval. “When I met the President, he said, ‘Governor, it is done,’ and within days, contractors were on site,” Diri recounted.


3. ₦4 Billion Tax Waiver: Granted for the importation of 60-megawatt gas turbines to provide Bayelsa with 24-hour independent power supply, a breakthrough after years of darkness due to grid sabotage.

Diri concluded that these “acts of grace” proved Tinubu’s genuine commitment to Bayelsa’s progress, calling his move to the APC “a necessary alignment for the future prosperity of our people.”

“When We Ask for ₦1, Give Us ₦5!” — Wike Tells Senate as He Reacts to Gov. Diri’s Defection to APC

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has stirred fresh political waves after telling the Senate to “increase the FCT budget” while simultaneously addressing the defection of Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Speaking during an interview on Channels Television on Monday, Wike revealed that Diri — who officially joined the APC earlier that day — had previously accused him of working with the APC to destroy the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

“When Diri was in the PDP, he said I was working for the APC to destroy the party,” Wike recounted.
“Now that he has joined the APC, he should come and tell me, ‘Thank you, master, for opening my eyes to see the light.’”


Wike mocked Diri’s move as hypocritical, noting that the Bayelsa governor had once branded others “undertakers” attempting to bury the PDP — yet has now joined the same party he once criticized.

The former Rivers State governor highlighted his long-standing loyalty to the PDP, reminding Nigerians that he has been a “bona fide member since 1998.”

“When I was governor under Buhari’s administration, everything was done to kill PDP, but I fought back. Leadership is key. Everyone wants to make excuses, but the man they claim is killing PDP is still in the PDP,” Wike said.


The fiery minister also used the opportunity to press the National Assembly to expand the FCT budget, boldly declaring:

“When we ask for ₦1, give us ₦5!”


Wike’s comment has since sparked discussions about his assertive leadership style, his complicated relationship with the PDP, and his growing influence in national politics.

Bayelsa in Political Turmoil as Diri Joins APC, Deputy Governor Faces Impeachment.

Bayelsa State Deputy Governor, Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, is facing impeachment by the State House of Assembly following Governor Douye Diri’s formal defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC) today.

The crisis erupted after Ewhrudjakpo refused to leave the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) despite Diri’s resignation from the party on October 15. The House of Assembly, reportedly acting under the governor’s influence, has since commenced impeachment proceedings against the deputy governor.

In a swift move to save his position, Ewhrudjakpo filed a suit at the Federal High Court in Abuja last week, seeking an injunction to halt the process. Speaking during the state’s 14th annual thanksgiving service on Sunday, Diri defended his decision to join the APC, describing it as a step taken “in the best interest of Bayelsa.”

He said, “Somebody had to make the decision, and I did it for the good of the state. You may not understand now, but time will tell.” The governor emphasized that his administration’s priority remains peace, development, and continuity of governance.

Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Senator Heineken Lokpobiri, hailed Diri’s defection as a strategic move to align Bayelsa with the federal government, warning against acts of disloyalty a veiled reference to Ewhrudjakpo’s insistence on staying with the PDP.

Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, represented by his Senior Policy Adviser, Rt. Hon. Funkekeme Solomon, urged Bayelsans to maintain unity for continued progress, while NDDC Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, praised Diri’s “visible developmental achievements,” describing him as “a blessing to the state.”

Bayelsa Deputy Gov Refuses to Quit PDP, Takes Assembly to Court Over Alleged Impeachment Plot.

Bayelsa State Deputy Governor, Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, has dragged the State House of Assembly, its Speaker, and several top officials to court over an alleged plan to remove him from office.

The deputy governor claims the lawmakers are under pressure to impeach him for refusing to dump the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Ewhrudjakpo, who filed the case at the Federal High Court in Abuja, insists he will remain in the PDP despite Governor Douye Diri’s recent resignation from the party.

He alleged that the impeachment move is politically motivated and aimed at forcing him out for maintaining his loyalty to the party.

His counsel, Reuben Egwuaba, told the court that some local government chairpersons who also stayed back in the PDP, including the Sagbama Council boss, Mrs. Alice Tangeare, are facing threats of removal. He described the situation as a coordinated attempt to silence those unwilling to defect.

Justice Emeka Nwite, who presided over the case on October 27, ordered all respondents — including the Bayelsa House of Assembly, the Speaker, the Chief Judge, the Inspector General of Police, the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), and the state’s Attorney General — to appear in court.

The judge directed them to explain why an injunction should not be granted to stop any action against the deputy governor.

The court fixed November 13 for their appearance and warned that the matter would proceed even if they fail to show up.

Aide clears Sylva of coup involvement, confirms Abuja home raid.

Mr. Timipre Sylva, Minister of State, Petroleum Resources.

PORT HARCOURT — The Special Assistant on Media and Public Affairs to former Minister of State for Petroleum, Chief Timipre Sylva, Chief Julius Bokoru, has dismissed rumours linking his principal to an alleged coup plot, describing them as false and politically motivated.

Bokoru stated that the former Bayelsa State governor had no connection to any coup-related activity, affirming that Sylva remains a committed democrat and supporter of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

According to him, the rumour was the handiwork of political opponents seeking to tarnish Sylva’s image ahead of the 2027 elections.

He confirmed, however, that Sylva’s Abuja residence was recently raided by individuals believed to be operatives of the Defence Headquarters, during which some damage occurred.

“For the avoidance of doubt, it is true that the residence of His Excellency, Chief Timipre Sylva, was recently subjected to a raid by individuals believed to be operatives of the Defence Headquarters. During the operation, considerable damage was inflicted on the property,” Bokoru said.

He added that the reason for the raid was not communicated by the security operatives, noting that Sylva and his wife were out of the country at the time.

“As of my last communication with His Excellency, he was undergoing routine medical checks in the United Kingdom, after which he was scheduled to attend a professional conference in Malaysia,” he stated.

Peter Obi’s Claims On Neglect Of Ports Outside Lagos Is Incorrect’ – Ministry Of Marine

The Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy has described the claims of the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, that the federal government is neglecting ports outside Lagos as incorrect and misleading.

Peter Obi recently criticised the Federal Government’s approval of US$1 billion for the modernisation of the Apapa and TinCan Island seaports in Lagos.

The former Governor of Anambra State urged the Federal Government to extend port development to other parts of the country.

In a post on his 𝕏 handle, Peter Obi condemned the excessive investment in Lagos’s infrastructure.

He lamented that such actions are carried out at the expense of other strategic ports such as Warri, Port Harcourt, Calabar, and Onne.

In response, the spokesperson to the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, Bolaji Akinola, in a statement on Wednesday, said the ministry welcomes constructive criticisms but argued that Peter Obi’s comments were misleading.

Akinola stated that the government is committed to modernising ports nationwide, stressing that the ministry has begun procurement for the upgrade of ports in Warri, Port Harcourt, Calabar, and Onne, alongside the ongoing modernisation of Apapa and TinCan Island ports.

The statement read, “The Federal Government is collaborating with state governments and private investors on new deep seaports in Bayelsa (Agge), Akwa Ibom (Ibom), Rivers (Bonny), and Cross River states.

Senate confirms 6 persons as commissioners for RMAFC.

The Senate, on Tuesday, confirmed the appointment of the nominations of six persons as commissioners for the Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC).

This followed the presentation and consideration of the report of the Senate Committee on National Planning and Economic Affairs during plenary.

Chairman of the committee, Sen. Yahaya Abdullahi who presented the report said that the committee was confident that the nominees possessed the requisite knowledge.

“We are convinced of their suitability,” he said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that those confirmed are Bello Wamakko, Sokoto; Hadizatu Mustapha, Borno; Sen. Marafa Abba, Taraba; Ahmed Hassan, Adamawa; Bob Inafa, Bayelsa and Gboyega Oladele, Osun.

In his remarks, Deputy Senate President, Jibrin Barau who presided over the plenary said that the appointment of the nominees was a call to serve the nation.

The All Progressives Congress League of Professionals (ALP) has dismissed insinuations that the All Progressives Congress (APC) is on the verge of collapse ahead of the 2027 general elections, describing such claims as false, unfounded, and mischievous. In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Comrade Marlin Daniel, a pioneer Secretary of the Bayelsa State…
The post APC Growing Stronger Ahead Of 2027 Elections – ALP appeared first on New Telegraph.

Bayelsa Deputy Governor Shuns Diri’s Defection to APC — “I’m PDP and Going Nowhere!”


Bayelsa State Deputy Governor, Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, has firmly rejected any association with Governor Douye Diri’s recent defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), declaring his unwavering loyalty to the PDP.

According to Naija News, Ewhrudjakpo, along with other prominent PDP figures including former Governor Seriake Dickson, vowed to keep the opposition party strong in Bayelsa and across Nigeria. They emphasized that there was no justification for abandoning the party that had been instrumental to their political rise.

A PDP insider revealed to Daily Post:

“The Deputy Governor, Ewhrudjakpo, and our leader, Seriake Dickson, alongside several ex-lawmakers, are still with the PDP. We’re not going anywhere.”


Governor Diri had earlier announced his resignation from the PDP on Wednesday through his spokesperson, Daniel Alabrah, but failed to provide reasons for his move to the ruling APC.

However, sources close to the State Executive Council disclosed that Ewhrudjakpo deliberately avoided the meeting where the governor made his announcement, signaling his refusal to defect.

“The governor chaired the SEC meeting this morning, but the deputy governor was absent. He refused to attend because he’s not defecting with the governor,” a source confirmed.


Meanwhile, lawmakers who followed Diri to the APC are reportedly considering impeachment proceedings against the deputy governor for “gross misconduct” due to his defiance.

“We expect the State Assembly to target him for his stance. If that happens, he’ll have to decide whether to fight or yield,” another insider disclosed.


Ewhrudjakpo, a seasoned politician and lawyer, has been a longtime pillar of the PDP, having served as a senator representing Bayelsa West and in various strategic party and national roles. He and Diri were elected on a joint PDP ticket in 2019 and re-elected in 2023.

As political pressure mounts, Ewhrudjakpo’s stand has set the stage for a dramatic power tussle in Bayelsa’s political landscape.

Bayelsa Governor Duoye Diri, 17 Lawmakers Resign From PDP.

According to the post, the governor has resigned from the party alongside the 17 House of Assembly members in the state.

The Bayelsa State governor, Duoye Diri, has announced his resignation from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

He made this announcement through his Chief Press Secretary, Daniel Alabrah who communicated the development on his Facebook Page on Wednesday.

According to the post, the governor has resigned from the PDP alongside 17 members of the House of Assembly in the state.

Two other lawmakers from the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) also tendered their resignation.

While it is unclear where the governor is headed, on May 1, 2025, SaharaReporters reported that no fewer than 27 political aides of Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State were dismissed following their participation in the inauguration of the Bayelsa State chapter of a grassroots-based political movement, The NEW Associates.

The affected aides were reportedly dismissed after attending the inauguration of the Bayelsa chapter of The NEW Associates and participating in a mega rally held in support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike.

Governor Diri's resignation comes a day after the Enugu State governor, Peter Mbah, also abandoned the PDP.

SaharaReporters earlier reported that Governor Mbah announced his defection to APC on Tuesday during a press conference, saying the move was driven by his desire to better serve the people of Enugu and align with the APC’s “vision for development and progress.”

He formally defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) alongside his immediate predecessor, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, state and federal lawmakers, among others.

In a broadcast to the Enugu people, Mbah announced his decision to leave the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and join the APC, citing a desire for a platform where the people's interest would be represented and respected.

Bayelsa Governor Douye Diri Resigns From PDP.

Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri has officially resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), in what marks another major political shake-up within the opposition.

His decision comes barely 24 hours after Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah dumped the PDP for the All Progressives Congress (APC), further deepening the internal crisis and wave of defections currently rocking the opposition party.

Here we go: Enugu Governor, Peter Mbah, Dumps PDP for APC, cites need to connect state with central government.

Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, has formally defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

The governor made the announcement during a statewide broadcast on Tuesday, saying the decision followed deep reflection and the need to connect Enugu to the central government.
“Today, after a long reflection, we have made a decision to join the All Progressives Congress,” Mbah said.

He expressed appreciation to the PDP for providing him with a platform that brought him to power but explained that his defection was driven by the desire to better serve the people of the state and align with the APC’s development vision.
“To the Peoples Democratic Party, which supported us through a demanding campaign and celebrated our victory, I express my heartfelt gratitude,” he stated.

“Leadership often requires taking tough, even painful decisions in pursuit of greater goals. This is one of those moments.”

Governor Mbah commended President Bola Tinubu for what he described as “massive support” for Enugu under his administration and expressed confidence that joining the APC would bring more collaboration and growth opportunities for the state.

He confirmed that his move to the ruling party was in partnership with members of the Enugu State House of Assembly, local government chairmen, councillors, and other political appointees who have also switched allegiance to the APC.

Mbah’s exit from the PDP reportedly comes ahead of Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri’s planned defection, which sources say has already been finalised. Earlier this year, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno had also joined the APC with their cabinet members and aides.

Bill for Creation of Ibadan State Passes Second Reading in House of Representatives.

A bill seeking to create a new state in Nigeria’s South-West geopolitical zone has passed its second reading in the House of Representatives.

Sponsored by Hon. Abass Adigun, representing Ibadan North East/Ibadan South East Federal Constituency, the bill proposes an amendment to the 1999 Constitution to establish Ibadan State from the current Oyo State.

During Thursday’s plenary, Adigun argued that Ibadan, once the capital of the old Western Region, deserves statehood, noting that other regional capitals like Enugu and Kaduna have since become states. He described the proposal as a “monumental step toward equitable development and true federalism.

Adigun cited Ibadan’s large population and landmass as justification, claiming that “one local government in Ibadan is bigger than three in Bayelsa State.” His comment sparked protest from Bayelsa lawmaker Obuku Ofurji, who called it “disrespectful.” Adigun later apologised but maintained that his statement was factual.

Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, who presided over the session, referred the bill to the House Committee on Constitutional Review for further consideration.

The proposal aligns with renewed agitation for state creation across Nigeria. In September, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, appealed to President Bola Tinubu to ensure Ibadan State is created before 2027.

Creating a new state under Section 8 of the 1999 Constitution requires approval by two-thirds of the National Assembly, the affected state’s assembly, local councils, and a referendum supported by two-thirds of residents in the proposed area.

No new state has been created in Nigeria since the return to democratic rule in 1999.

No Going Back On Strike, ASUU Tells FG.

YENAGOA – The President of the Academ­ic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Chris Piwuna, has re­stated that there is no going back on its planned two weeks nation­wide warning strike over some lingering issues, if the Federal Government fails to respond on or before October 13 expiry date.

The planned strike follows a two-week ultimatum issued by the union, last week, asking the Federal Government to address its unresolved issues, including the signing and implementation of the renegotiated 2009 ASUU-FGN agreement.

Speaking with newsmen during the Orientation/Lead­ership Training for Academic Staff Union, Niger Delta Univer­sity branch, Wilberforce Island, Bayelsa State, Piwuna insisted that the union has agreed on their position on a warning strike which will not change except their demands with the Federal Government are met.

He said, “The warning strike has been issued and we are not meeting to discuss that again as a union because our position has been taken, and by midnight of Monday we will embark on two weeks warning strike, after which we will meet after the ex­piration to decide when to begin an indefinite and comprehensive strike action.

“The issues still remain the same, re-negotiation of our 2009 documents is still lingering over the years, and we want Nigerians to know that we have been talking and the strike action is coming after several years of negotiations and we are not just jumping on a strike.

“We have given government enough time on this particular issue, just imagine they gave us three weeks to get back to us and never did till this moment. Ni­gerians must always look at the actions of government that has al­ways pushed us to such actions”.

On the issue of NELFUND, Pi­wuna said, “We have told govern­ment that we do not support loan in such a depressed economy. An economy where unemployment rate is high, families can’t feed, so where from where do they want them to repay the loan.

“If they truly want to give them monies, they should come out clean; where are the jobs that will enable them repay the loans, if the monies are meant to make the universities run better it should be given as a grant, not a loan.

Listen To Your Wife, Many Will Betray You” – Onoh Warns Tinubu Over Eligibility Of Jonathan For 2027 Presidency.

The former southeast spokesman of President Bola Tinubu, Denge Josef Onoh, has declared that there is no court ruling barring former President Goodluck Jonathan from contesting the 2027 presidential race.

"Listen To Your Wife, Many Will Betray You" - Onoh Warns Tinubu Over Eligibility Of Jonathan For 2027 Presidency
He argued that the certified true copy of the court judgment, declared Jonathan eligible to contest the presidency in Nigeria again and had set aside any issue of constitutional term limits.

He warned President Tinubu not to be deceived into embarking on a wild goose legal chase over Jonathan’s qualification to contest future elections.

Onoh warned President Tinubu not to be carried away by the sycophancy of those around him, warning that just as his wife had cried out about previous betrayals, many people who appear to be supporters may betray him in the 2027 election.

Naija News reports the statement comes on the heels of a warning from the presidency contained in a statement issued by Bayo Onanuga on Monday against Jonathan’s rumoured interest in the 2027 election and individuals within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) who are reportedly encouraging him to contest the 2027 presidency on the party’s platform.

Onoh, who spoke with newsmen in Yenegoa, Bayelsa State, on Tuesday, however, disagreed with the submission by the Presidency on Jonathan’s eligibility. He further submitted that only Nigerians can decide who would be their leader.

He urged the Tinubu administration to focus on issues of national importance and refrain from interfering in the electoral rights of any opponent.

“Therefore, President Tinubu should not be deceived by anyone telling him otherwise. This was exactly how Jonathan’s inner cabal during the build up to 2015 elections deceived him into believing that he was invisible, that Nigerians loved him, to the extent he was too carried away that he felt invisible and never saw Tinubu coming.

“Tinubu was the invisible magician that cast the spell that led to Jonathan’s loss at the polls. The President should not fall in the same trap by the voices that surround him now. The one major sincere voice he should listen to is his wife, many will betray him in the coming months,” Onoh said.