Nigerian Police Arrest Sowore At Federal High Court In Abuja.

Sowore was picked up shortly after leaving the at the Federal High Court, where he had appeared on Thursday.

Human rights activist and former presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, has been arrested by the police in Abuja.

Sowore was picked up shortly after leaving the at the Federal High Court, where he had appeared on Thursday.

According to information obtained by SaharaReporters, the arrest was ordered by the Commissioner of Police in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

Sowore, who was scheduled to appear before Justice Emeka Nwite over what he described as a “bogus and farcical” charge of alleged forgery of a police wireless message, filed under the instruction of the “illegal Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun”, was informed at the court that the judge would not be sitting.

A source disclosed that a police officer approached Sowore, informing him that he was under arrest on the orders of the FCT Commissioner of Police.

Members of his legal team, led by human rights lawyer Tope Temokun, immediately confronted the officers, demanding to know the reason for the sudden arrest. However, the police insisted they were acting on “direct instruction” from the Commissioner and proceeded to escort Sowore into a waiting vehicle.

Sowore, a long-time critic of government policies, is known for leading several pro-democracy and human rights movements across Nigeria.

Sowore movement, has faced multiple arrests and legal battles since 2019 over his criticism of government corruption and demand for good governance.

UK Charity Commission Freezes Assets of MFM Ministries.

The United Kingdom’s Charity Commission has frozen the assets of the Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries International (MFM), a church founded by Dr. Daniel Olukoya, following findings of financial mismanagement and governance lapses within its UK operations.

In a detailed report released on Monday, POLITICS NIGERIA learned that the commission said the decision followed an official inquiry that uncovered “serious concerns” about how the church’s funds were being managed. The investigation revealed that MFM trustees failed to maintain proper oversight of over 100 bank accounts run independently by local branches across the country.

According to the Commission, the charity’s rapid expansion from a few branches to over 90 nationwide was not matched by the necessary governance systems to ensure financial accountability.

“Branches operated autonomously, opening and managing bank accounts without central authorisation or adequate monitoring,” the report said. “This created substantial risks to charitable funds and led to inaccurate and delayed financial reporting.”

The inquiry also found that some branches had engaged in major financial transactions, including the purchase and leasing of properties, without the knowledge or approval of the main trustees. These irregularities, the Commission said, resulted in “financial losses that could not be fully accounted for.”

As part of its enforcement action, the Commission ordered the immediate freezing of all MFM’s UK assets to prevent further mismanagement. “The Commission has acted decisively to protect the charity’s remaining assets while remedial steps are being implemented,” the statement added.

This is not the first time the Charity Commission has intervened in MFM’s affairs. In 2019, the regulator appointed an interim manager to oversee the church’s financial administration after repeated failures to file annual reports and maintain proper accounting records.

Court nullifies LGAs election, sacks 13 APC chairmen, 171 councillors.

The Federal High Court sitting in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, has nullified the local government and councillorship elections conducted in July 2024, which produced the current council chairmen and councillors across the state.

Recall that, the Ebonyi State Independent National Electoral Commission (EBSIEC) declared that the.

All Progressives Congress (APC) won all 13 chairmanship seats and all 171 ward councillorship positions in the local government elections held in July 2024 in Ebonyi State.

Justice Hillary Oshomah, who presided over the case, ruled that the elections failed to comply with the provisions of the Electoral Act, thereby rendering the entire exercise invalid.

Elections Declared Void
In his judgement, Justice Oshomah declared the July 2024 local government and councillorship elections “null and void,” cancelling all outcomes and mandates arising from the poll.

The court stated that the process violated key constitutional requirements for free, fair, and credible elections.

EBSIEC and Government Restrained
The court also ordered the Ebonyi State Independent National Electoral Commission (EBSIEC) and the Ebonyi State Government—listed as the second and third respondents in the suit—not to conduct any future local government or councillorship elections unless they strictly adhere to the provisions of the Nigerian Constitution and the Electoral Act.

The judge emphasised that the sanctity of electoral laws must be upheld at all levels of governance to maintain public confidence in the democratic process.

Plaintiffs Applaud Ruling
The verdict followed a suit filed by the first plaintiff, Samuel Udeogu, represented by his counsel, Hamilton Ogbodo, and the second plaintiff, Mudi Erhenede.

“Tinubu Doesn’t Need to Campaign in Kogi State; There’s No Opposition Here,” — Yahaya Bello Boasts

Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, has declared that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu does not need to campaign in Kogi State ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Speaking at the ongoing endorsement rally held in Lokoja on Saturday to support the second-term bids of President Tinubu and Governor Usman Ododo, Bello confidently stated that Kogi is a stronghold of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

In his words, the governor said:

“Your Excellency, Mr. President, you don’t even need to come to Kogi State to campaign. There’s no opposition here. Those making noise elsewhere have not seen the lion—when the lion roars, they will run with their tails between their legs.”

Bello assured the President of total support from the people of Kogi State, emphasizing that the state remains fully committed to the Tinubu-led administration and the continuity of APC governance at both state and federal levels.

"Nigeria Needs $1.2 billion to Achieve Gender Equality Targets" — Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim.

Nigeria’s Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, has revealed that the country requires $1.2 billion over the next five years to bridge its financing gap and meet national gender equality and social inclusion targets.

Speaking in Abuja during the annual general meeting and founder’s day celebration of the League of Women Voters of Nigeria (NILOWV), the minister emphasised that closing the gap demands “bold partnerships and investment in women’s advancement.”

Represented by her special adviser, Ola Erinfolami, Sulaiman-Ibrahim said the federal government is exploring blended finance models, public-private partnerships, and impact investments to fund programmes that support women, children, and families.

On the Reserved Seats Bill, she commended the National Assembly for backing efforts to increase women’s political participation, describing it as a “strategic investment in democracy and national progress.”

The Etsu Nupe, Yahaya Abubakar, also endorsed the bill, urging lawmakers across all levels to pass it for more inclusive governance.

Similarly, Olufolake Abdulrazaq, chairperson of the Nigerian Governors’ Spouses Forum represented by Hauwa Halira called for mobilising broad support to ensure women’s full political inclusion before the 2027 general elections.

In their remarks, NILOWV founder Esther Udehi and President Irene Awunah-Ikyegh urged grassroots advocacy to boost understanding of the Reserved Seats Bill, while Aishatu Bura, President of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), stressed the media’s vital role in amplifying women’s voices and driving inclusive discourse.

Colonel Michael Randrianirina Sworn In as Madagascar’s President After Gen-z led protest resulted in Military Takeover.

Colonel Michael Randrianirina was officially sworn in as Madagascar’s new president on Friday, just days after leading a military coup that forced former President Andry Rajoelina to flee the country.

The ceremony, held at the Constitutional Court in Antananarivo, was attended by military officers, politicians, Gen Z protest leaders, and foreign representatives from the U.S., European Union, Russia, and France.

“Today marks a historic turning point for our country,” Randrianirina declared during his oath-taking, vowing to “break with the past” and embark on comprehensive reforms.

He praised the youth-led movement that played a central role in toppling Rajoelina, saying their passion reflected “a deep love for their homeland.”

Randrianirina, commander of the elite CAPSAT unit that joined protesters during last weekend’s uprising, promised to collaborate with “all the driving forces of the nation” to draft a new constitution and electoral laws paving the way for fresh elections and referendums.

“Our mission is to reform the country’s administrative, socio-economic, and political systems of governance,” he said, signaling the start of what many are calling a new era for the Indian Ocean nation.

IMF excludes Nigeria from list of Africa’s fastest-growing economies, calls for deeper reforms.

Nigeria has been left out of the International Monetary Fund’s latest list of Africa’s fastest-growing economies, sparking fresh discussions about the country’s sluggish growth and persistent structural challenges.

In its newly released Regional Economic Outlook for Sub-Saharan Africa, the IMF highlighted countries such as Benin, Côte d’Ivoire, Ethiopia, Rwanda, and Uganda as the continent’s top performers, projecting regional growth to stabilize around 4.1 percent in 2025.

Despite being Africa’s largest economy, Nigeria failed to make the list, reflecting what analysts describe as a combination of weak reforms, high inflation, and over-dependence on oil revenues. The IMF also warned that many African nations, including Nigeria, face growing fiscal pressures as governments turn to domestic banks for financing amid limited external funding opportunities.

According to the report, these fiscal and monetary imbalances, along with rising inflation and exchange-rate instability, continue to dampen Nigeria’s growth outlook. The Fund advised countries in the region to adopt sound fiscal policies, strengthen revenue mobilization, and diversify their economies to cushion against global shocks.

Experts say Nigeria’s omission underscores the urgent need for deeper reforms in public finance, infrastructure, and governance. While some progress has been made under ongoing policy adjustments, the IMF’s findings suggest the country still lags behind peers that have successfully implemented aggressive economic diversification and investment-friendly strategies.

Madagascar suspended from African Union as military colonel declares himself leader following Gen Z–led protests.

The African Union (AU) has suspended Madagascar after a military coup ousted President Andry Rajoelina. The AU said the suspension would remain “until constitutional order is restored.”

Colonel Michael Randrianirina, head of an elite army unit, declared himself interim president and said the military would rule for up to two years before holding elections. “We are staying for at least 18 months, at most two years,” he told the Associated Press.

The coup followed weeks of youth-led protests under the “Gen Z Madagascar” movement, demanding better governance and access to basic services. Randrianirina claimed he took power at the request of the High Constitutional Court after Rajoelina fled “for safety reasons.”

He announced the appointment of a prime minister and the dissolution of most institutions, except the lower house of parliament, to form a transitional government.

Rajoelina, who has been in power since 2018, condemned the takeover as an “illegal coup.” Randrianirina, once his ally, had been arrested in 2023 for inciting mutiny and released with a suspended sentence the following year.

Crowds in Antananarivo reacted with both celebration and fear of instability. Analysts criticised the move, calling it a civil movement hijacked by the army.

France’s President Emmanuel Macron denied aiding Rajoelina’s escape but expressed “deep concern” and reaffirmed France’s support for Madagascar’s people.

The island nation has suffered repeated coups since 1960, struggling with poverty and corruption its GDP per capita has halved, and its corruption ranking has fallen to 140th globally.

Shehu Sani Mocks Labour Party Over Outrage at Governor Mbah’s Defection: “You Left Africa to Syria, They Left to Spain”


Former Nigerian senator, Shehu Sani, has taken a swipe at critics of Governor Peter Mbah’s defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC)—especially those from the Labour Party (LP)—accusing them of hypocrisy and selective outrage.

In a Facebook post on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, Sani reacted to comments made by Peter Obi, who had downplayed the political impact of Mbah’s defection but criticized the trend of cross-party movement among politicians.

Sani questioned why members of the Labour Party should be angry over a PDP member joining the APC, pointing out that many within the LP themselves were originally from the PDP.

Using his trademark humor, Sani drew a colorful analogy:

“You left Africa to Syria, and they left Africa to Spain. You are angry because they didn’t follow your route. You saw the vision and left; they only trailed your footsteps. The defectors only divorced the wife you once divorced.”


The former lawmaker argued that political migration has long been part of Nigeria’s political culture, and it was inconsistent for politicians to condemn defections when they had once done the same.

Sani’s remarks came after Obi clarified that Governor Mbah’s defection does not represent a regional political takeover, insisting that good governance—not party affiliation—should determine political support.

However, Sani’s post reframed the conversation, suggesting that Nigeria’s political class is caught in a revolving door of defections, where party switches are more about personal ambition than ideology.

His witty metaphor quickly went viral, reigniting debates about loyalty, integrity, and the fluid nature of political alliances in the country.

Madagascar in Political Turmoil as Military Seizes Power After President Rajoelina’s Impeachment

Madagascar’s elite army unit takes control after President Andry Rajoelina’s impeachment, sparking global concern and uncertainty over the country’s democratic future.


Madagascar has been plunged into political chaos after an elite military unit seized control of the government following the impeachment of President Andry Rajoelina.

According to Punch Newspaper, the dramatic power shift occurred on Wednesday when the CAPSAT contingent, an elite arm of the military, took over key government institutions in the capital, Antananarivo, just hours after parliament voted to remove Rajoelina from office.

Reports indicate that the embattled president fled the country amid growing protests and mounting opposition. The move marks Madagascar as the latest in a string of African nations—following Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, Gabon, and Guinea—to experience military takeovers since 2020.

Colonel Michael Randrianirina, commander of the CAPSAT unit, has been declared interim president by the country’s top court. In a televised address, Randrianirina denied staging a coup, claiming the intervention was to “rescue the nation from collapse.” He pledged to restore civilian rule within 18 to 24 months and promised institutional reforms and elections before the transition ends.

The African Union swiftly suspended Madagascar from all its activities, calling the military action unconstitutional. The United Nations, France, Germany, and Russia also expressed concern, urging calm, dialogue, and a return to democratic order.

Meanwhile, the youth-led Gen Z Movement, which had spearheaded recent protests over water and electricity shortages, hailed the development as a victory for the people. “We’re anxious about the future, but this feels like our first real win,” said 26-year-old rugby team captain, Fenitra Razafindramanga.

However, Rajoelina’s camp insists he remains the legitimate president, describing the court’s endorsement of Randrianirina as “illegal and politically motivated.”

Rajoelina’s presidency has long been controversial—he first came to power in 2009 through a military-backed coup and later returned via disputed elections in 2023. His administration was widely criticized for corruption, economic decline, and poor governance.

As Madagascar navigates this uncertain transition, global observers are watching closely to see whether the country will truly reform—or once again fall into the cycle of military dominance and fragile democracy.

"No Entry to Exco Meeting Without Wearing Tinubu’s ‘Asiwaju Cap’" — Edo Governor Okpebholo Warns Commissioners.

Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has issued a stern warning to newly appointed commissioners, declaring that anyone who fails to wear the ‘Asiwaju cap’ popularly known as the Tinubu cap will be barred from attending Executive Council meetings.

Speaking on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, during the swearing-in of 20 new commissioners and members of various boards, Okpebholo emphasized his loyalty to President Bola Tinubu, stressing that the event would not have been possible without the president’s support.

He recalled that in previous elections, the All Progressives Congress (APC) struggled in Edo due to lack of backing from the presidency, but said that had changed under Tinubu’s leadership.

“Before we begin, let me say this could not have happened without a responsible President. We’ve had many elections here, and our major problem was that the President wasn’t with us,” he said.
“You see this cap I’m wearing? I will not forgive any commissioner who isn’t wearing it. If you come to the Exco in traditional attire without this Asiwaju cap, you’re going back,” he warned.

The governor also cautioned against corruption and misconduct, insisting his administration would not tolerate any behavior that could damage its reputation.

Okpebholo noted that the appointments were based on merit and reminded the appointees that their positions were a call to serve, not a political reward.

“Your nominations are not rewards or patronage but a call to serve the people of Edo State. Our administration is committed to practical governance that directly impacts lives.
We are focused on service delivery and tangible results, not propaganda,” he added.

Nigeria’s Lowest Revenue-Generating State Revealed

According to the latest data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), Yobe State recorded the lowest internally generated revenue (IGR) in Nigeria for 2024 — about ₦11.08 billion only.

At the top, Lagos State remains the leader with over ₦800 billion, showing the wide economic gap between states.

Experts say low IGR is linked to insecurity, weak tax systems, and overdependence on federal allocations.

What do you think your state can do to boost its internal revenue?

#Nigeria #Economy #IGR #Development #Governance

FG Threatens ASUU With ‘No Work, No Pay’ Rule

The Federal Government of Nigeria has called on the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) to reconsider its decision to embark on an industrial strike, emphasising that constructive dialogue remains the most effective and sustainable path toward resolving all outstanding issues in the tertiary education sector.

In a joint statement, the Honourable Minister of Education, Dr Maruf Tunji Alausa, CON, and the Honourable Minister of State for Education, Professor Suwaiba Sai’d Ahmad, disclosed that the Federal Government has made a comprehensive offer to the union and is still awaiting ASUU’s official response.

They emphasised that the offer addresses the union’s primary concerns, including working conditions, institutional governance, and staff welfare.

The Ministers noted that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has approved a robust Teaching Allowance designed to reflect the value of academic work and motivate lecturers across public universities.

They emphasised that the federal government has approached the matter with demonstrable commitment and sincerity, evident in its prompt policy responses and financial interventions in the education sector. However, ASUU has not reciprocated this gesture and appears determined to proceed with the planned strike despite the pending offer and ongoing engagement.

The Ministers reaffirmed that the administration of President Tinubu remains unwavering in its commitment to the welfare of Nigerian lecturers and the stability of the university system.

They noted that the ongoing reforms in the education sector are anchored on fairness, accountability, and institutional strengthening to ensure sustainable academic excellence.

While reaffirming the administration’s respect for university autonomy, the Ministers clarified that certain aspects of ASUU’s demands—particularly those relating to internal governance, appointments, and promotions—are statutory responsibilities of university governing councils.

Council of State Approves Prof. Amupitan (SAN) as New INEC Chairman.

The National Council of State on Thursday approved the nomination of Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan (SAN) as the new Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

President Bola Tinubu presented Amupitan’s name to the council during its meeting at the State House, Abuja, following the exit of Professor Mahmood Yakubu, who served from 2015 to October 2025.

In a statement by his Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu described Amupitan as an apolitical nominee and the first person from Kogi State in Nigeria’s North-Central region to be nominated for the position.

Council members unanimously endorsed the nomination, with Kogi State Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo describing the nominee as a man of “proven integrity.”

Following the council’s approval, the President will transmit Amupitan’s name to the Senate for screening and confirmation in accordance with constitutional provisions.

Amupitan, 58, hails from Ayetoro Gbede in Ijumu Local Government Area of Kogi State. A Professor of Law at the University of Jos and an alumnus of the same institution, he specialises in Company Law, Law of Evidence, Corporate Governance, and Privatisation Law.

He was conferred with the rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) in September 2014 and has authored several works on corporate and commercial law.

If confirmed, Amupitan will succeed Yakubu as Nigeria’s chief electoral umpire, overseeing the nation’s electoral reforms ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Renowned broadcaster Christopher Kolade Passes On at 92.

Renowned broadcaster and elder statesman, Dr. Christopher Kolade, has passed away at the age of 92.

His family announced his de@th in a statement on Thursday, revealing that he d+ed peacefully on Wednesday, October 8, 2025.

“We are grateful for his remarkable life of faith and service and for God’s abundant blessings,” the family said.

Born on December 28, 1932, Dr. Kolade enjoyed a distinguished career as a broadcaster, diplomat, academic, and a strong advocate for integrity and corporate governance.

“The Flame May Flicker, But It Must Never Die” — Senate President Akpabio Delivers Stirring Independence Message at 65th Anniversary


In a session that beautifully merged celebration with governance, Senate President Godswill Akpabio delivered an emotional address to mark Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary, urging unity, resilience, and a renewed sense of national purpose.

Speaking during plenary at the National Assembly, Akpabio congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and all Nigerians on the nation’s milestone, describing independence as a timeless reminder of the sacrifices made by heroes who fought for freedom and self-determination.

Reflecting on Nigeria’s journey since 1960, Akpabio described nation-building as an enduring process rather than a one-time event.

“After we hoisted our flag of freedom 65 years ago, we are reminded that the journey of nationhood is not a sprint but a marathon,” he said.
“It is a relay of faith and sacrifice — one generation handing the torch to the next.”


He encouraged Nigerians to remain steadfast amid present challenges, adding that “the flame may flicker, but it must never be allowed to die.” Akpabio also drew inspiration from the national anthem, reminding the Senate that “the labors of our heroes past” should continue to guide the country toward justice, peace, and prosperity.

Acknowledging Nigeria’s mixed history of “shadow and sunshine,” Akpabio praised the legislature’s role in sustaining democracy and called on lawmakers to work collectively toward governance that truly serves the people.

The session also featured a symbolic moment — the return of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan after a period of medical recovery. Her presence underscored Akpabio’s message of resilience, continuity, and inclusiveness in national leadership.

The Senate President’s message struck a balance between celebration and reflection, highlighting the importance of perseverance and unity in keeping Nigeria’s democratic flame alive.

Adamawa APC Hails Tinubu’s Economic Reforms — “Nigeria’s Future Is Brighter Than Ever!”


The Adamawa State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his ongoing economic reforms, describing them as impactful steps toward national recovery and sustainable growth.

During a one-day grassroots engagement and sensitization meeting held in Yola, party stakeholders expressed optimism that the president’s policies are laying the foundation for a more prosperous and secure Nigeria.

The event — spearheaded by APC members in the Adamawa State House of Assembly — drew attendance from top party leaders, including Northeast Vice Chairman Mustapha Salihu, the State Working Committee, and numerous supporters.

Speaking at the gathering, Ismail Bobboi, Minority Whip of the Adamawa State House of Assembly, said the meeting reaffirmed the party’s commitment to supporting President Tinubu’s administration and its reform agenda.

Echoing this sentiment, Adamawa APC Chairman Idris Shuaibu praised Tinubu’s leadership, emphasizing the president’s pragmatic approach to rebuilding the economy and strengthening governance structures.

Stakeholders further pledged to intensify grassroots mobilization in support of the president, urging Nigerians to remain patient and hopeful as the reforms continue to yield tangible benefits across sectors.

David Mark Pledges a “Bigger, Stronger, and Purpose-Driven” ADC Ahead of 2027 Elections


The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has announced its vision to build a political party that transcends individual personalities, surpasses any movement, and stands out in the history of Nigerian politics.

Speaking at the inaugural meeting of the ADC National Working Committee (NWC) in Abuja on Tuesday, Senator David Mark, the party’s national chairman, said the journey ahead would be challenging and demand significant sacrifices.

“Our mission is not just to attain power in 2027 but to leave a legacy that future generations will be proud to inherit,” Mark said.


The high-profile meeting drew respected leaders from across Nigeria, including former Osun State Governor and ADC National Secretary Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, National Publicity Secretary Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, former SGF Babachir Lawal, Chief Oserheimen Osunbor, and actor Kenneth Okonkwo, among others.

In his remarks, Mark emphasized that ADC members have set aside narrow interests in favor of the common good, stating,

“We advance calmly, courageously, together as a formidable team.”


He added that the ADC would be a party of purpose and determination, committed to promoting democratic values, accountability, and responsibility in every government it forms.

Drawing from his experience as a former Senate President, Mark expressed concern over attempts—both subtle and overt—to undermine the legislature and judiciary. He promised that the ADC would defend the separation of powers, restore legislative and judicial independence, and ensure that public budgets serve the people, not private interests.

The party’s declaration signals a new chapter in Nigeria’s political landscape as it positions itself for the 2027 elections with a focus on principle-driven governance and lasting impact.

There’s genocide against poor Nigerians, Muslims, Christians, children – Sowore tells U.S govt .

Human rights activist and African Action Congress (AAC) presidential candidate, Omoyele Sowore, has accused both the United States and the Nigerian government of hypocrisy in their response to the ongoing killings across the country.

Sowore said Nigeria’s violence is caused by bad governance and insecurity, not religion, warning against portraying it as persecution of Christians or Muslims.

He was reacting to renewed calls by some U.S. lawmakers, urging Washington to label Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” (CPC) over alleged Christian persecution.

According to him, such claims are misleading and fail to reflect the real situation in Nigeria.

“There’s genocide against the poor, against Muslims, against Christians, against children. Trying to separate it by religion is dishonest,” Sowore said.

He argued that Nigeria does not identify victims by religion, saying, “The country doesn’t check who carries a Bible or a Koran before counting the dead.”

Sowore also criticised the U.S. for ignoring similar crises elsewhere.

“Why is the U.S silent about Gaza, where Muslims are being killed by Israel? That’s international hypocrisy,” he said.

Benjamin Kalu Reflects on Nigeria’s 26 Years of Democracy, Calls for Renewed Commitment to Justice and Freedom

Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has reflected on Nigeria’s democratic journey, highlighting both its achievements and ongoing challenges 26 years after the country’s return to civilian rule.

In a video shared by Symfoni TV, Kalu reminisced about the nation’s optimism at the dawn of democracy in 1999, following decades of military dictatorship. He said Nigerians had hoped that the new era would usher in freedom, justice, and prosperity for all citizens.

Speaking during an update on the ongoing constitutional amendment process, Kalu stated that the 1999 Constitution was designed to lay the foundation for a Nigeria where citizens wield real power, rights are protected, and government institutions exist to serve the people.

However, he questioned whether that vision has been fully realized, noting that while progress has been made — including seven peaceful general elections and smooth power transitions between political parties — more work still lies ahead.

Kalu acknowledged that civil society has grown stronger, the media enjoys greater freedom, and the judiciary, despite challenges, continues to assert its independence.

He also emphasized the role of political parties as vital channels for citizen participation, noting that millions of Nigerians continue to cast their votes because they believe in the value of democracy.

“The Constitution of 1999 brought about the return of Nigeria to democratic governance 26 years ago. For a moment, there was great anticipation — we dared to think that a new era of freedom, justice, and prosperity was finally within reach,” Kalu reflected.

Kalu concluded by calling on Nigerians to remain steadfast in strengthening democratic institutions and ensuring that the ideals envisioned at the beginning of civilian rule continue to guide the nation’s path forward.