Southeast Leaders Split Over Ekweremadu’s Proposed Transfer to Nigeria

Regional leaders in Nigeria’s Southeast are sharply divided over the Federal Government’s plan to transfer former Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu from a UK prison to a Nigerian correctional facility, Punch reported on Sunday, November 16, 2025.

While some see the move as a positive humanitarian gesture, others believe it is politically motivated and unnecessary.

° “Let Him Finish His Sentence in the UK” — INC President

Chilos Godsent, President of the Igbo National Council (INC), strongly criticized the transfer proposal.
He questioned the timing and suggested the initiative may be linked to political strategies ahead of the 2027 elections.

He said the Federal Government showed little interest during Ekweremadu’s trial but is suddenly eager to intervene, raising suspicions.

According to Godsent:

“It is better to allow him to serve his term in the UK, where he was found guilty.”


He also feared that Ekweremadu might face harsher conditions or renewed legal battles if brought back to Nigeria.

Some Southeast voices compared the government’s urgency in Ekweremadu’s case to its refusal to release IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu, despite repeated demands.

This contrast, they argue, shows inconsistency and bias in handling issues affecting the Igbo people.


Meanwhile, influential leaders have applauded the move.
The Deputy President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo praised the initiative as sincere and welcomed the Federal Government’s intervention.

Similarly, the Abia State PDP Chairman urged Nigerians to judge the move based on national interest, not speculation.

Wike Is Our Colleague And Could've Reached Out To Us, The Officer's Action Was Lawful -Bello Matawalle.

Bello Matawalle, the Minister of State for Defence, has stated that the military officer involved in the recent altercation with FCT Minister Nyesom Wike did not commit any offence and should be commended for his conduct.

According to a report by Punch on Thursday, November 13, 2025, Matawalle said Wike should have reached out to the Defence Ministry to resolve the issue instead of allowing it to escalate. He said the officer only acted on lawful instructions and did exactly what he was trained to do which is to be disciplined, loyal, and obedient to orders.

Matawalle stated that the officer did not violate any military rule and will not face any punishment for carrying out his duty. He said the young officer obeyed a lawful order and followed due process throughout the encounter. In his words: “He (Wike) is our colleague, and Wike could have reached out to us to resolve whatever issue. The officer’s action was lawful because he was trained to be disciplined, loyal, and obedient to orders

Peter Obi Reacts as Wike Clashes with Soldiers Over Property in Abuja.

According to a report by Punch on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, has reacted to the viral video showing Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, engaging in a heated confrontation with soldiers in Abuja.

The incident, which occurred on Plot 1946 in the Gaduwa District, involved soldiers allegedly blocking officials of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) from carrying out their duties. The disputed land is reportedly linked to the former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Awwal Zubairu Gambo (retd.)

In a post shared on his official X handle on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, Obi described the altercation as “a needless and unfortunate reflection of Nigeria’s growing institutional disorder.”

He said, “The recent altercation between the FCT Minister, His Excellency Nyesom Wike, and a Naval officer is yet another unfortunate reflection of the growing institutional disorder in our country. What should ordinarily be a routine civic encounter has, once again, become a national embarrassment — a typical example of what comes out of a disgraced nation.”

Obi noted that the incident raised critical questions about the misuse of state power and the weakening of Nigeria’s institutions.

He asked: “Should the military be used for purely civil operations? If proper protocols were in place, should a Minister’s intervention in such a matter be so indecorous? Shouldn’t there be clear boundaries between administrative authority and the duties of security agencies?”

He further questioned Nigeria’s culture of governance and respect for due process, lamenting the frequent involvement of military personnel in civil disputes. “Why has the culture of due process and civility given way to public spectacle and confrontation? If our institutions worked as they should, would tempers flare in situations that should be handled by procedure and hierarchy?”

Nollywood actress Uche Montana Denies mysterious "drug supplier" Allegations.

According to a report by Punch, Nollywood actress Uche Montana has forcefully refuted sensational claims circulating online that she is the mysterious "drug supplier" to fellow actress and billionaire wife, Regina Daniels.

The widespread rumor gained considerable traction across various social media platforms, causing a significant stir and threatening to damage Montana's hard-earned reputation.

In a swift and decisive move, the actress took to her official social media channels to address the defamatory allegations head-on, firmly declaring her complete innocence and demanding a public retraction from the sources.

The controversy first erupted following vague yet persistent online reports mentioning a popular actress who allegedly supplies illicit substances to a prominent married colleague in the industry.

Although names were initially withheld, social media commentators quickly linked the accusations to Regina Daniels and Uche Montana, primarily due to their perceived association within the tightly-knit movie industry circle.

This rapid spread of speculation demonstrates the unchecked power and sometimes reckless nature of the digital mob, forcing celebrities to frequently defend their personal lives against baseless claims.

Taking a strong stance against the slander, Uche Montana categorically denied any involvement in any form of drug-related or illicit activities whatsoever.

She expressed extreme disappointment and profound anger over the baseless rumors, labeling them as malicious, calculated attempts by hidden detractors to permanently tarnish her valuable brand and successful career trajectory.

ASUU Warns Of Fresh Strike As Union Accuses Education Minister Of False Claims.

According to Punch, November 5, 2025, the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), University of Jos branch, has accused the Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Maruf Alausa, of deliberately misleading Nigerians over the Federal Government’s alleged fulfilment of agreements reached with the union. The lecturers warned that failure to address lingering issues could force the union to resume its suspended nationwide strike.

In a statement released after its congress meeting, the branch chairman, Dr. Chris Piwuna, said the minister’s recent comments suggesting that the government had met all of ASUU’s demands were “false and deceptive.” He maintained that several critical aspects of the 2020 Memorandum of Action remain unresolved, including unpaid earned academic allowances, revitalization funds, and withheld salaries during the 2022 strike period.

Piwuna argued that the government’s continuous failure to implement agreed resolutions has deepened the crisis in the education sector. He accused the minister of attempting to create public resentment against the union rather than focusing on genuine reforms. “Our members are tired of repeated promises and propaganda. What we demand is action, not empty assurances,” he said.

The statement further disclosed that ASUU’s National Executive Council would soon meet to review the current situation and decide on the next line of action if the government fails to act promptly. The lecturers reiterated their commitment to defending public universities and ensuring adequate funding, fair wages, and academic autonomy.

Reacting to the allegation, a senior official in the Ministry of Education insisted that the government had made “considerable progress” in addressing ASUU’s concerns, adding that some delays were due to budgetary constraints. He appealed to the union to remain patient and prioritize dialogue over confrontation.

Education analysts, however, warned that another ASUU strike could paralyze the academic calendar across the country and disrupt the smooth running of universities, urging both parties to find a lasting solution through transparent negotiations.

US Lawmakers Move to Sanction 12 Nigerian Governors Over Alleged Christian Persecution.

According to a report by The Punch on Monday, November 3, 2025, a major diplomatic clash is brewing between Nigeria and the United States as the US Congress considers a bill that could impose sanctions on 12 northern governors, judges, and traditional rulers accused of complicity in religious persecution.

The proposed Nigeria Religious Freedom Accountability Act of 2025, sponsored by Senator Ted Cruz, follows President Donald Trump’s designation of Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” for alleged Christian genocide.

The bill seeks visa bans, asset freezes, and financial restrictions on officials enforcing or tolerating Sharia or blasphemy laws under the Global Magnitsky framework.

Trump claimed thousands of Christians have been killed in Nigeria, directing the US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, to act “without delay.” He warned of possible military intervention if the killings persist, saying the US could go “guns-a-blazing” against Islamic terrorists.

Nigeria’s Federal Government rejected the allegations, asserting that the Constitution guarantees freedom of religion and prohibits any state religion. It clarified that Sharia applies only to Muslims in certain northern states and is subject to constitutional review.

Foreign affairs experts warn the crisis could damage bilateral relations, reduce US aid, and affect arms deals vital to Nigeria’s counterterrorism efforts.

Former ambassador Mohammed Mabdul said the CPC tag would “weaken diplomatic cooperation,” while ex–Foreign Ministry spokesman Ogbole Amedu-Ode urged the government to protect citizens’ rights and rebuild global trust.

President Bola Tinubu is expected to meet Trump soon to clarify Nigeria’s stance and strengthen security ties amid rising global scrutiny.

From Beats to Bust: Afrobeats Artiste Arrested as NDLEA Dismantles Lagos Drug Lab.

According to a report by Punch on Monday, November 3, 2025, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has dealt a major blow to Lagos’s underground narcotics network after uncovering a secret laboratory where synthetic cannabis—popularly called Colorado or Colos—was being produced. The agency also arrested a 20-year-old Afrobeats musician, identified as Godspower George Osahenrumwen, known by his stage name Steady Boy, in connection with a related drug shipment.

The discovery came after weeks of surveillance and intelligence operations, NDLEA spokesperson Femi Babafemi revealed in a Sunday statement. Officers stormed a residential building at Ajao Estate, Isolo, Lagos, where a 30-year-old suspect, Stephen Kelechi Imoh, had converted an apartment into a synthetic drug laboratory.

Inside the building, NDLEA operatives recovered 16.2 kilograms of freshly processed Colorado, 1.7 kilograms of ADB-CHMNACA (a synthetic cannabinoid), 4.5 kilograms of potassium carbonate, and 91 litres of dibromobutane—chemical ingredients used to manufacture the psychoactive substance.

In a related operation, the agency intercepted a shipment of Loud, another potent strain of cannabis, smuggled from New York through a DHL flight and hidden in three cartons of bathtubs. When Steady Boy arrived at a Lekki address to receive the package, NDLEA operatives swooped in and arrested him. The artiste’s manager, Zion Osazee Omigie, also known as “Zee Money,” is currently on the run.

NDLEA officials said the operations marked a significant milestone in the ongoing “War Against Drug Abuse” campaign, targeting not just traffickers but also local manufacturers who are now using residential areas as covert drug laboratories.

Experts warn that the shift from importation to domestic production signals a dangerous evolution of Nigeria’s narcotics trade. With such labs now embedded in urban neighborhoods, authorities fear a deeper social and security threat.

NDLEA Chairman, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (rtd), reiterated that the agency will sustain its crackdown and expand its community outreach programs to combat rising drug abuse among Nigerian youths.

The suspects remain in custody as investigations continue into the full extent of the syndicate’s network.

NDDC Demands Retraction, Apology.

The Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, has demanded a retraction and apology from the Punch and Daily Times newspapers over an alleged coup rumour against the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

The Commission’s Legal Counsel, ADEDIPE AND ADEDIPE Legal Practitioners, in a strongly worded letter signed by Chief Ayodeji Adedipe, SAN, demanded that The Punch, the Daily Times and others retract the offensive and false publication and tender an unreserved public apology.

Adedipe said the report, “falsely alleged that Dr Samuel Ogbuku, Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), was arrested by military intelligence for allegedly co-sponsoring a failed coup plot against President Tinubu.

“The publication further claimed, without any factual or evidential basis, that Dr Ogbuku transferred funds from NDDC contracts to finance an alleged coup plot. These allegations are entirely false, malicious, and defamatory.”

According to the letter, “Dr Ogbuku categorically denies these baseless claims. He has not been arrested, invited, or interrogated by any authority in connection with any alleged coup plot or financial misconduct. The publication represents a gross violation of journalistic ethics, as no attempt was made to contact or verify the story with him or the NDDC before its release.

Who Swear For Us - Farotimi Slams Senate Bill That Repentant Terrorists To Enjoy Foreign Education.

Human rights lawyer and activist Dele Farotimi has expressed outrage over a resurfaced front-page newspaper report indicating that the Nigerian Senate once considered a bill to sponsor “repentant terrorists” for foreign education.

Reacting via his X account (formerly Twitter) on Sunday, October 26, 2025, Farotimi questioned the country’s moral and political direction, writing, “Who swears for us? How do you say it is well with such a country?”

His post came after renewed public debate over the controversial headline, which first appeared on the front page of Punch Newspaper, reading, “Repentant terrorists to enjoy foreign education — Senate Bill.”

Farotimi continued, “How do you as an individual justify this to your own conscience? How did a society become so acculturated to insanity and abominations that this was the front page of a national newspaper, and there was nary a bleat?”

His remarks reflected deep frustration over what he described as widespread public silence on issues threatening national integrity.

The post that triggered his reaction had been made by a social media user who wrote, “The sort of front page news we see in Nigeria. This was around February of 2020 — a Nigerian Senate bill proposed granting foreign education to ‘repentant terrorists.’ If something like this was presented to the legislative arm of the Nigerian government in 2020, imagine what must have been executed without going through the legislature in 2025.”

Farotimi, in his response, further condemned the lack of accountability, adding, “How did a country’s senate get away with such an act of national security compromise? How do you divorce the APC and its supporters from charges of terrorism and subversion of national security interests? Ask questions.”

Soludo Speaks Out: Anambra Govt Denies Plans to Arrest Catholic Bishops or Clerics After Re-Election

The Anambra State Government has refuted viral claims alleging that Governor Chukwuma Soludo intends to arrest and jail Catholic Bishops, religious leaders, or native doctors after securing a second term in office.

According to a report by Punch Newspaper, the Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor, dismissed the rumors as false, malicious, and politically motivated, urging the public to ignore such propaganda.

“Governor Soludo respects the rights and freedoms of all citizens, including religious leaders. These fake stories are being spread by desperate political opponents whose campaigns are collapsing,” Mefor said.


He clarified that the government’s current actions are only targeted at exposing fake spiritualists and fraudulent native doctors, not genuine clerics or religious figures.

Dr. Mefor reaffirmed that Governor Soludo remains committed to peace, religious tolerance, and integrity, emphasizing that his administration is working with the Federal Government to tackle certificate forgery and other electoral malpractices ahead of the November 8, 2025 governorship election.

The commissioner urged Anambra residents, particularly members of the Catholic community, to disregard false social media posts meant to incite fear and division in the state.

ASUU Strike Deepens as NLC Issues 4 Week Ultimatum to FG Over Broken Promises.

According to report by Punch newspaper on Tuesday October 21, 2025, the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) and the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) have joined forces to demand a lasting solution to the persistent instability in Nigeria’s university system.

During a meeting held at the NLC headquarters in Abuja, labour leaders from ASUU, SSANU, COEASU, and ASUP deliberated on the ongoing strike affecting universities nationwide. The NLC issued a four week ultimatum to the Federal Government to conclude negotiations with all unions in the education sector or face a nationwide industrial action.

ASUU President, Professor Chris Piwuna, said the union declared the strike following the expiration of its 14-day ultimatum. He cited unresolved issues such as unpaid salaries, unfulfilled agreements, and poor infrastructure.

NLC President Joe Ajaero warned that workers would no longer tolerate government’s neglect of agreements. He condemned the “no work no pay” policy, saying it would now be replaced with “no pay, no work,” stressing that most strikes occur due to government’s failure to honour deals.

Ajaero insisted that if the government fails to act within four weeks, all Nigerian workers will join in a nationwide protest. ASUU vowed to resist further insincerity in negotiations, urging government to prioritise education.

The ASUU strike has now entered its eighth day.

Protesters Defy Court Order, Vow to Storm Presidential Villa.

According to report by Punch on Monday, October 20, 2025, tensions are mounting in Abuja as security forces prepare for a possible confrontation with #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protesters, who plan to march to the Presidential Villa today (Monday) to demand the release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

This comes despite an interim injunction by the Federal High Court in Abuja restricting demonstrations near sensitive government areas, including Aso Rock, the National Assembly, and Force Headquarters.

The organisers, led by human rights activist Omoyele Sowore and the Take It Back Movement, have vowed to proceed with what they describe as a peaceful protest, both in Abuja and across the South-East.

Damilare Adenola, the group’s Director of Mobilisation, maintained that the march is a constitutional right and a stand against the government’s “illegal and inhumane” actions.

Kanu remains in detention facing charges of terrorism, treason, and incitement. His 2021 re-arrest in Kenya and extradition to Nigeria continue to spark legal and political debates. While critics view his detention as politically motivated, the government insists it is lawful prosecution.

The protest’s timing, coinciding with the fifth anniversary of the #EndSARS demonstrations, has heightened government anxiety. Organisers, however, insist that they have informed the police and expect them to provide security rather than clamp down on protesters.

Over 115 lawyers, medical staff, and journalists have been mobilised nationwide to support the march.

The movement has received broad political support, with opposition figures such as Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi backing calls for Kanu’s release and urging dialogue instead of repression.

Tears and Tributes as Arise TV Anchor Sommie Maduagwu Laid to Rest in Anambra

The remains of Somtochukwu Maduagwu, fondly known as Sommie, a beloved Arise TV news anchor, were laid to rest amid deep sorrow in Agulu, Anaocha Local Government Area, Anambra State.

Sommie tragically lost her life in September 2025 following a violent armed robbery attack at her Abuja residence — a heartbreaking incident that shook the media community. Her burial took place at 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, following a solemn funeral Mass held at St. Theresa’s Catholic Church, Agulu.

The ceremony drew family, friends, colleagues, and dignitaries, including the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, who paid his last respects to the late journalist.

During the homily, Rev. Fr. Peter Ezewuzie urged the bereaved family to take comfort in faith, describing Sommie as “a woman of purpose and virtue” whose life, though short, left a meaningful impact.

In his emotional tribute, Peter Obi lamented her passing as “a painful reminder of Nigeria’s deepening insecurity.” He said,

“Before leaving Birmingham yesterday, I told my companions I was returning home for the burial of one of my daughters.”
He urged Nigerians to remember her family in their prayers and honor her memory with love and hope.


Sommie’s death has left an unfillable void in journalism and among all who admired her professionalism, warmth, and grace.

Source: PUNCH

FG not sincere with collective bargaining, says UI ASUU.

The Academic Staff Union of Universities has accused the Federal Government of insincerity in its approach to collective bargaining and the welfare of academic staff in public universities.

The union lamented that the government had not shown genuine regard for tertiary education judging by the way it handles the welfare and conditions of service of intellectuals in public institutions.

It, however, vowed not to abandon its struggle for decent working conditions and improved funding for the revitalisation of public universities in the interest of the children of the masses.

ASUU Chairman, University of Ibadan chapter, Dr Adefemi Afolabi, stated this while featuring on Situation Room, a radio programme in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.

The PUNCH reports that ASUU, on Monday, began a two-week warning strike to protest the Federal Government’s failure to sign the renegotiated draft agreement reached by the Yayale Ahmed-led committee, which concluded its sittings over eight months ago.

Afolabi said the Federal Government had taken ASUU for granted for too long, noting that the union was forced into the warning strike due to what he described as government’s “delay tactics” and disregard for the principles of collective bargaining.

He said, “The Federal Government took ASUU for granted for over eight months. The union was not happy to proceed on the warning strike but was forced to do so because of the delay tactics adopted by the government and its posture towards jettisoning the principle of collective bargaining.”

According to him, the union waited patiently for eight months and even organised protests to sensitise Nigerians on the need for the government to sign the renegotiated agreement.

Peter Obi Backs Sowore’s Peaceful March, Calls for Nnamdi Kanu’s Release Through Dialogue and Justice


Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has expressed his support for activist Omoyele Sowore’s peaceful march demanding the release of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Nnamdi Kanu.

Speaking during a recent media chat, Obi emphasized that dialogue, justice, and respect for human rights remain the best tools for resolving Nigeria’s internal conflicts.

According to Punch Newspaper, Obi clarified that while he does not endorse violence or separatism, he believes Kanu’s prolonged detention raises serious questions about due process and the rule of law. He commended Sowore’s nonviolent approach, urging the federal government to seek political and reconciliatory solutions to the grievances in the South East.

“Our unity as a nation must rest on fairness, equity, and inclusion,” Obi stated. “Peaceful engagement, not repression, is the true path to progress.”


Obi further called on Nigerians to remain calm, law-abiding, and committed to justice, even as they advocate for human rights and national stability.

Nnamdi Kanu has been in detention since 2021, following his controversial extradition from Kenya. His continued incarceration has triggered widespread protests and legal challenges, with his supporters insisting that his fundamental rights have been violated.

Sowore — publisher of Sahara Reporters and former presidential candidate — recently led a symbolic march in Abuja, drawing attention from civil society groups and human rights advocates calling for Kanu’s release.

With Obi’s endorsement, the call for a political and humane resolution to the IPOB leader’s case gains renewed momentum, as Nigerians continue to demand justice, peace, and inclusivity.

INEC Yet to Show Readiness for Credible Polls — Atiku Accuses Tinubu of Using State Power to Intimidate Opposition


Former Vice President and 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, has raised concerns over what he described as the declining independence of Nigeria’s electoral system and the misuse of state power ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Atiku, speaking through his Media Adviser, Paul Ibe, in an interview with Punch Newspaper, accused President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of using government institutions, including anti-corruption agencies, to intimidate opposition leaders and force mass defections into the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

“The Constitution provides for freedom of association. As a democrat, Atiku Abubakar will not dictate to others whom they associate with. But it is clear that the Tinubu-led APC has been using state power to coerce opposition figures,” he said.


According to Atiku, the wave of defections across political parties does not reflect genuine political conviction but rather self-preservation by politicians seeking protection and personal gain.

“All of these defectors do not have the people’s interest at heart. What they are doing is to protect their own interests,” he added.


The former Vice President emphasized that despite the ongoing political realignments, ordinary Nigerians remain the ultimate deciders of the 2027 election outcome.

“It is Nigerians — the long-suffering, impoverished citizens who can hardly feed, educate their children, or access basic healthcare — who will determine the fate of 2027. The battle line has been drawn between the forces of good and evil,” Atiku declared.


He expressed disappointment that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has yet to demonstrate genuine commitment to reforming the electoral process, warning that without concrete improvements, the 2027 elections could mirror past irregularities.

Atiku, however, expressed optimism that the will of the people would prevail over political manipulation and state-backed coercion.

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.

Universities Shut Down Nationwide as Lecturers Dare Tinubu Government.

According to a report by The Punch on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, academic activities were paralysed across public universities nationwide on Monday as the Academic Staff Union of Universities commenced a two-week warning strike over unmet demands by the Federal Government.

ASUU president, Prof. Chris Piwuna, announced the strike in Abuja on Sunday, following a breakdown in negotiations.

In immediate response, the Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, ordered vice-chancellors to enforce a no-work-no-pay policy and submit attendance lists of academic staff within seven days.

The Nigeria Labour Congress rejected the directive, describing it as intimidation. NLC president, Joe Ajaero, warned that failure to heed ASUU’s demands after the strike would trigger broader labour action.

Universities nationwide reported total compliance. At Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, branch chairman Haruna Jibril said the strike reflected years of accumulated frustration. Lecture halls were deserted, with students seen loitering in groups.

A similar situation played out at Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto; Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba; the University of Uyo; University of Ibadan; Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka; University of Jos and Plateau State University, Bokkos.

At some institutions, examinations were disrupted. At Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University, Makurdi, only Veterinary Medicine students had pending papers. At Olabisi Onabanjo University and Tai Solarin University of Education, lecturers vowed to remain off duty until their demands were met.

Despite threats of withheld salaries, ASUU members insisted they were prepared to endure hardship to protect the future of public education. Piwuna dismissed attempts at division, stating: “Nobody can threaten us. We are victims, just like students.”

"Finance Minister Wale Edun Recuperating in Abuja, No Plans for Replacement" — Presidency.

Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, is recovering at his Abuja residence after falling ill, senior Presidency sources confirmed on Sunday. 

Contrary to reports, officials insist his condition is not stroke-related and that President Bola Tinubu has no plans to replace him.

A senior government official told The PUNCH that while Edun’s illness is “a bit serious,” he remains in Nigeria under the care of local doctors. “He’s indisposed but not suffering from a stroke,” the source said, adding that Edun might seek treatment abroad only if necessary.

Earlier reports had claimed that Edun’s condition was “very serious” and that the President had begun discreet consultations to find a replacement. However, multiple Presidency insiders dismissed those claims, emphasizing that the minister is still in his home and being monitored closely.

Presidential aide Bayo Onanuga also confirmed Edun’s situation, stating: “Yes, he’s indisposed. Wale Edun is about 69 years old. He suddenly fell ill, but he’s in Nigeria and recuperating.”

In Edun’s absence, the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Olayemi Cardoso, will lead Nigeria’s delegation to the World Bank and International Monetary Fund Annual Meetings in Washington, DC, beginning Monday, October 13. The delegation will also include Minister of State for Finance Doris Uzoka-Anite.

Meanwhile, President Tinubu departed Abuja for Rome, Italy, to attend the Aqaba Process Heads of State and Government Meeting, which focuses on security issues in West Africa.

Edun, a seasoned economist and banker, was appointed Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy on August 21, 2023.

2027: No Discussion Or Pact With Jonathan To Unseat Tinubu – Peter Obi.

The Labour Party (LP)’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has dismissed speculation of a political alliance with former President, Goodluck Jonathan, to unseat President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 general elections.

The clarification follows the growing political tension sparked by a recent closed-door meeting between Peter Obi and Jonathan in Abuja, which triggered rumours of an opposition realignment.

Supporters of both politicians have engaged in heated debates on social media, urging either Peter Obi or Jonathan to step aside for the other in what many perceive as a test of opposition unity.

However, speaking through his media aide and National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement Worldwide, Yunusa Tanko, in an interview with The PUNCH, Peter Obi said there is no pact or discussion about 2027.

He said, “My principal and the former president have a very good working relationship and they know each other very well. So seeing them talk to each other does not mean anything. And it should not be translated to mean anything other than a platonic discussion on how to move this country forward.

“But I don’t think there’s anything more than that. No discussion or pact around 2027. Even when they met in Ghana, I was there. So there was nothing like that.”