Breaking News: Top Nigerian Senator Godiya Akwashiki Dies at 52 in India After Prolonged Illness, Family Confirms

Godiya Akwashiki, the senator representing Nasarawa North Senatorial District, has died at the age of 52. Family sources confirmed that the lawmaker passed away on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, at a hospital in India, where he had been receiving treatment for a long-term illness.

Akwashiki was first elected to the Nigerian Senate in 2019 and made history in 2023 by becoming the only senator from Nasarawa North to secure two consecutive terms since the state’s creation. He was a member of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and was widely regarded for his strong grassroots support and emphasis on constituency-focused development projects.

Before joining the National Assembly, Akwashiki served multiple terms in the Nasarawa State House of Assembly, rising to the positions of Majority Leader and later Deputy Speaker. Born on August 3, 1973, in Angba Iggah, Nassarawa Eggon Local Government Area, his death marks a significant loss to Nasarawa politics and Nigeria’s legislative community.

This morning,
@TxDPS
Brush Team apprehended two illegal immigrants—one from Nepal and one from Mexico—in Roma, Starr County. Both were attempting to evade capture and were turned over to the U.S. Border Patrol.

DPS specialized brush teams play a critical role in public safety and border security by patrolling rugged terrain along the river, tracking illegal crossings, and assisting federal partners.

Operation Lone Star 2.0

#TexasDPS #OperationLoneStar #BorderSecurity #StarrCounty

Supreme Court Dismisses INEC’s Appeal On SDP Leadership, Awards ₦2 Million Cost Against Commission

The Supreme Court of Nigeria has dismissed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)’s appeal challenging the leadership of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), ruling the matter purely academic as the by-elections had already been conducted and winners sworn in. The apex court upheld earlier judgments of the Federal High Court and Court of Appeal, which compelled INEC to recognise and include SDP candidates across 12 states. The court also awarded ₦2 million in legal costs against INEC’s counsel. Justice Mohammed Idris, delivering the lead judgment, emphasized that courts do not entertain academic questions where no live dispute exists, noting that INEC’s appeal lacked merit.

"Give President Tinubu Time, He Will Tax the Air We Breathe" —SDP’s Adewole Adebayo.

The 2023 presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Adewole Adebayo, has condemned the federal government’s decision to impose a 15 per cent import duty on refined petroleum products. 

Adebayo described the move as “an anti-people decision” and accused President Bola Tinubu of pushing excessive taxation policies.

Speaking during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Thursday, Adebayo argued that the administration is prioritising revenue collection over citizens’ welfare.

According to him, “President Tinubu is a clever tax collector. He wants to collect taxes from you for everything, including the oxygen tax, very soon.
If you’re not careful, yes, the air we breathe. Just give him time; he’s going to get there,” he said.

Adebayo contended that the new import duty contradicts the principles Tinubu once promoted.

“It is an anti-people decision and a trend in the new Tinubu. Tinubu that used to be in SDP, following Abiola everywhere doing Hope 93, has practically changed to the side of the money people.

They see you as a customer, not a citizen. If you have twins and triplets in your house, Tinubu is going to think of twins tax or ‘multiple childbirth tax.’ He’s just thinking of how to collect more money. It’s wrong,” he said.

He warned that the tariff will ultimately fall on ordinary Nigerians, especially given current economic hardships.

“If you put 15 per cent tariffs on imported petrol, who is going to pay for it? It’s going to be paid by the person who buys the petrol at the filling station,” Adebayo added.

Okikiola Layi-Balogun Denies Housebreaking Allegations, Says Tenant’s Claims Are False

Mr. Okikiola Layi-Balogun, son of the late presidential aspirant under the defunct Social Democratic Party (SDP), Architect Olayiwola Osuolale Balogun, has dismissed allegations of housebreaking and theft leveled against him by his former tenant, Mr. Adekunle Taiwo.

Speaking on Monday, September 29, 2025, Layi-Balogun described the allegations as false, malicious, and intended to damage his reputation.

The matter, which is before Magistrate R.A. Richard at the Iyaganku Magistrate Court in Ibadan, concerns a property located at Old Bodija, a house built by his late father and where he was raised. He explained that Taiwo, who had occupied the boy’s quarters of the property since 2015, had a history of disputes with neighbors and never fully recognized him as landlord.

According to Layi-Balogun, Taiwo’s claims are an attempt to compel an out-of-court settlement and extort millions of naira. He said the case has placed him under years of unnecessary pressure, affected his family’s name, and cost him job opportunities as the allegations lingered.

“This matter has left a permanent scar on my life,” he said. “I grew up in that house; it is my family home. I am innocent of all the accusations, and all I seek is justice and the restoration of my good name.”

He expressed gratitude for finally having the opportunity to present his side of the story, insisting that the accusations were baseless and unfairly designed to malign him.

History was made today as Nigerian-born
Maryam Bukar Hassan emerged as the first
UN Global Advocate for Peace and Security, addressing the opening session of the 2025 United Nations General Assembly.
https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSDpp7HEY/

Nigerian Police Detain Wife, Children Of Late Ondo Ex-Governorship Candidate Akingboye For His Alleged Murder.

Initially, his Personal Assistant and Media Adviser, Oyeniyi Iwakun, announced his passing in a glowing tribute.
Otunba Bamidele Akingboye
New revelations have surfaced regarding the death of former Social Democratic Party (SDP) governorship candidate in Ondo State, Otunba Bamidele Akingboye, popularly known as OBA, as police have arrested his wife and children over their alleged involvement.

According to SaharaReporters, a police source revealed on Thursday that Akingboye’s death, initially announced as a sudden tragedy, is now being treated as possible homicide.

“On the update about OBA, the information is that he might have been murdered by his wife and children, and the domestic workers in the house all knew about it.

"CCTV footage showed that he was dragged out of the building at 2am. The wife and children have all been arrested and taken to custody since yesterday (Wednesday) at the State Criminal Investigation Department, Panti, Lagos. The daughter is the only one at large,” the source disclosed.

Akingboye, who died at his Victoria Garden City (VGC) residence in Lagos State at the age of 60, was widely known as a philanthropist, oil and maritime businessman, and political leader in Ondo State.

Initially, his Personal Assistant and Media Adviser, Oyeniyi Iwakun, announced his passing in a glowing tribute.

The aide described him as “a man of unwavering integrity, an accomplished businessman, philanthropist, visionary leader, and community builder.”

But speculations quickly emerged that his death was not natural.

How Ex- Ondo Gov candidate Akingboye reportedly died of domestic violence from his wife.

One of the wives of former Social Democratic Party (SDP) governorship candidate in the November 16, 2024, Ondo State election, Bamidele Akingboye, has been accused of being responsible for his death.

Akingboye reportedly passed away last Wednesday at his Victoria Garden City (VGC) residence in Lagos at the age of 60.

Confirming his death in a statement, his Personal Assistant and Media Adviser, Oyeniyi Iwakun, described him as a man of integrity, a philanthropist, and a visionary leader. He said burial details would be announced later.

However, a source told SaharaReporters that Akingboye’s death was not natural but the result of domestic violence, alleging that his wife pushed him off a balcony. Images of his body circulating online show bruises and deep cuts on his head and neck.

The late politician, also the CEO of Benshore Maritime, Clog Oil Systems, and President of WeAfrica Group, had contested the 2024 Ondo governorship election against Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of the APC, Agboola Ajayi of the PDP, and other candidates.

Police authorities have confirmed an ongoing discreet investigation, pledging to uncover the truth. Civil society groups and activists have also demanded a thorough probe while warning against any attempt to cover up the circumstances of his death.

How Ondo SDP Ex-Gov Candidate Akingboye Was Allegedly Pushed By Wife From Balcony – Source

Former Ondo State governorship candidate under the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Otunba Bamidele Akingboye, reportedly died last Wednesday at his Victoria Garden City (VGC) residence in Lagos at the age of 60.

While an official statement described him as a visionary businessman, philanthropist, and political leader who lived a purposeful life, a source claimed his death was linked to domestic violence, alleging that one of his wives pushed him from a balcony.

Images circulating online showed bruises and deep cuts on his head and neck. The police have confirmed launching a discreet investigation into the incident, promising a thorough probe.

Akingboye, who contested the November 16, 2024 Ondo governorship election against Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of the APC, Agboola Ajayi of the PDP, and others, was widely respected in political and business circles.

Civil society groups and activists have called for transparency in the investigation, warning against any cover-up.

#OndoPolitics #Akingboye #Justice

SDP’s Adewole Adebayo: “Tinubu Must Not Remain in Power Beyond 2027”

Former Social Democratic Party (SDP) presidential candidate, Prince Adewole Adebayo, has cautioned that it would be a grave mistake for Nigeria if President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains in office beyond 2027.

Speaking in an exclusive interview with Daily Post on Thursday, September 4, 2025, Adebayo emphasized that leadership renewal is critical for Nigeria’s progress.

> “President Tinubu is not supposed to be there. And it would be a mistake for the country, even for him personally, and for any other person, to keep him beyond 2027,” Adebayo declared.

He argued that fresh leadership and new ideas are needed to tackle Nigeria’s challenges and restore effective governance. According to him, opposition coalitions must focus not just on removing Tinubu but on providing credible solutions.

Adebayo further noted that Nigeria’s political culture often encourages leaders to cling to power without accountability, stressing that citizens should prioritize ethics, principles, and integrity over party loyalty.

He insisted that the future of Nigeria depends on electing leaders capable of ethical and transformative governance, not recycling old systems of power.

Otunba Bamidele Akingboye, the Social Democratic Party governorship candidate in the 2024 Ondo State election has died at the age of 60.

His Personal Assistant and Media Adviser, Oyeniyi Iwakun, confirmed that he passed away on Thursday at his residence in Victoria Garden City, Lagos. Born on April 2, 1964, Akingboye was a businessman, philanthropist & community leader.

He served as Chief Executive Officer of Benshore Maritime & Clog Oil Systems, as well as President of WeAfrica Group. He also held the traditional title of Olowomeye I of Ikaleland. He is survived by his wives, children, grandchildren & siblings. The family said burial arrangements will be announced later.

In his tribute, Ondo SDP Chairman, Ebenezer Akinbuli, described Akingboye as a visionary leader committed to service. “During his campaign, he shared his vision for a brighter Ondo State, anchored on good governance, social justice & sustainable development. His passion and leadership inspired many & his legacy will endure” Akinbuli said.

He stressed that the Federal Government has not borrowed from local banks since the beginning of the year, underscoring the impact of the improved fiscal position.

The Presidency further explained that the revenue surge has boosted allocations at the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC), with disbursements to states and local governments exceeding ₦2 trillion in July for the first time in history.

This, it said, has provided subnational governments with greater resources to fund food security, infrastructure, and social services. It, however, admitted that despite the record revenue, allocations are still insufficient to meet the administration’s ambitions in education, health, and infrastructure.

Highlighting the shift away from oil dependency, the Presidency disclosed that non-oil revenues contributed ₦15.69 trillion of the total, accounting for three out of every four naira collected. While inflation and foreign exchange revaluation played a role, it said the growth was mainly reform-driven — through Customs automation, digitised filings, tighter enforcement, and expanded compliance.

Otunba Bamidele Akingboye, the Social Democratic Party governorship candidate in the 2024 Ondo State election has died at the age of 60.

His Personal Assistant and Media Adviser, Oyeniyi Iwakun, confirmed that he passed away on Thursday at his residence in Victoria Garden City, Lagos. Born on April 2, 1964, Akingboye was a businessman, philanthropist & community leader.

He served as Chief Executive Officer of Benshore Maritime & Clog Oil Systems, as well as President of WeAfrica Group. He also held the traditional title of Olowomeye I of Ikaleland. He is survived by his wives, children, grandchildren & siblings. The family said burial arrangements will be announced later.

In his tribute, Ondo SDP Chairman, Ebenezer Akinbuli, described Akingboye as a visionary leader committed to service. “During his campaign, he shared his vision for a brighter Ondo State, anchored on good governance, social justice & sustainable development. His passion and leadership inspired many & his legacy will endure” Akinbuli said.

He stressed that the Federal Government has not borrowed from local banks since the beginning of the year, underscoring the impact of the improved fiscal position.

The Presidency further explained that the revenue surge has boosted allocations at the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC), with disbursements to states and local governments exceeding ₦2 trillion in July for the first time in history.

This, it said, has provided subnational governments with greater resources to fund food security, infrastructure, and social services. It, however, admitted that despite the record revenue, allocations are still insufficient to meet the administration’s ambitions in education, health, and infrastructure.

Highlighting the shift away from oil dependency, the Presidency disclosed that non-oil revenues contributed ₦15.69 trillion of the total, accounting for three out of every four naira collected. While inflation and foreign exchange revaluation played a role, it said the growth was mainly reform-driven — through Customs automation, digitised filings, tighter enforcement, and expanded compliance.

2027 Warning: “If Things Don’t Improve, Tinubu Should Step Aside” — Adebayo
Former SDP presidential candidate, Prince Adewole Adebayo, says President Tinubu shouldn't seek re-election in 2027 if current economic hardship and insecurity persist.
Speaking on Channels TV, he called the APC's early endorsement of Tinubu “insensitive” and urged real change before Nigerians head to the polls again.
“If nothing improves, he should go home and thank God he was president for 4 years.”
#Nigeria #Tinubu #PoliticsToday #APC #2027Elections #Adebayo #SDP #Leadership #NaijaPolitics

EXTRA: Nasarawa Lawmaker Appoints 106 Aides to ‘Serve Constituents’

Musa Gude, who represents Uke/Karshi constituency in the Nasarawa State House of Assembly, says he has appointed 106 aides to support his work and “better serve his constituents.”

The Social Democratic Party (SDP) lawmaker told NAN in Lafia that the move was aimed at boosting service delivery and improving the living standards of the aides and their families. According to him, the aides earn between ₦10,000 and ₦100,000 monthly.

Gude described the initiative as part of his inclusive leadership and empowerment drive, noting his efforts in providing boreholes, paying students’ SSCE fees, and supporting projects in health, education, agriculture, and infrastructure.

He assured constituents of continued quality representation and urged them to live in peace and unity.

#Nasarawa #Politics #Leadership

Nigeria May Not Survive If APC Retains Power in 2027 — Former Kaduna Gov, El-Rufai.

Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has warned that Nigeria’s very existence could be at stake if the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) secures another term in the 2027 general elections.

Speaking on Saturday, August 2, during a grassroots mobilisation rally in Sokoto organised by the opposition coalition led by the African Democratic Congress (ADC), El-Rufai made a bold declaration against the APC and pledged to actively campaign for its removal from power.

“I’m not in politics to gain anything for myself. I’m here to serve,” he stated. “When the government fails to serve the people, I see it as my duty, as a senior citizen, to speak out and act to change the situation.” El-Rufai, once a prominent figure in the APC, described the current administration as “incompetent” and warned that allowing it to continue beyond 2027 could lead to the complete coll@pse of Nigeria’s social fabric.

“We’re in Sokoto to begin mobilising Nigerians against the APC, both at the state and federal levels,” he said. “If this party continues in power beyond 2027, what remains of Nigeria’s social capital may be destr%yed.

We may not even have a country. This is a f+ght for survival.” El-Rufai left the APC in March 2025 after the Senate declined to confirm his ministerial appointment, allegedly over security concerns.

He briefly joined the Social Democratic Party (SDP), but was expelled and handed a 30-year ban over accusations including f%rgery of membership documents.

Ondo Election: Appeal Court Upholds Aiyedatiwa’s Victory.

The Court of Appeal sitting in Akure, Ondo State, on Thursday affirmed the election of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa and his deputy, Dr. Olayide Adelami, as duly elected in the November 16, 2024 governorship poll.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had declared Aiyedatiwa of the All Progressives Congress (APC) winner, with 366,781 votes, defeating candidates from other parties.

Following his victory, multiple parties,including the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Social Democratic Party (SDP), Action Alliance (AA), Allied Peoples’ Movement (APM), and African Democratic Congress (ADC),challenged the outcome at the Ondo State Election Petition Tribunal.

They alleged electoral irregularities and non-compliance with the Electoral Act. However, the tribunal dismissed all petitions for lack of merit and upheld the election. Unwilling to accept the verdict, the petitioners approached the Court of Appeal.

But in a unanimous judgment on Thursday, Justices Nimpar Yargata, K.I. Amadi, and I.M. Sani dismissed the appeals one after the other, ruling that the appellants failed to provide credible evidence of electoral malpractice.

The court held that the appellants neither proved how alleged irregularities affected the results in specific polling units, wards, or local governments, nor presented credible witnesses during the tribunal proceedings.

Consequently, the appellate court upheld the tribunal’s earlier decision and affirmed Aiyedatiwa and Adelami as the legitimate Governor and Deputy Governor of Ondo State. The court also awarded N1.5 million in costs against the appellants.

Former governor, El-Rufai banned for 30 years.

Former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has been expelled from the Social Democratic Party, SDP.


Announcing his expulsion from the party, SDP also imposed a 30-year ban on El-Rufai.

SDP’s National Working Committee, NWC, said the action was in line with the party’s constitution, ideology, manifesto, principles, and practices, as well as in consonance with the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Electoral Act pertaining to the exclusive right of a political party to determine its membership.

A statement by the party’s spokesman, Araba Rufus Aiyenigba, warned members against associating with El-Rufai and those who don’t represent its interest.

Parts of the statement read: “El-Rufai is hereby banished and banned from applying for membership, identifying with the name, insignia, logo, symbol, mark, or any activities, organs, agencies, and institutions of the SDP or donating to, supporting, contributing to, or participating in any affairs of the SDP for a period of 30 years effective from today.”

It would be recalled that El-Rufai joined the SDP after quiting the All Progressives Congress, APC.

However, El-Rufai is also a key member of the opposition coalition which recently adopted the African Democratic Congress, ADC, as its platform ahead of the 2027 election.

Atiku Abubakar Resigns from PDP, Cites Departure from Party Ideals.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), a platform he helped found in 1998. In a letter dated July 14 and addressed to the party chairman in his Jada 1 Ward, Adamawa State, Atiku said his decision takes immediate effect.

“I find it necessary to part ways due to the current trajectory the Party has taken, which I believe diverges from the foundational principles we stood for,” he wrote. “It is with a heavy heart that I resign, recognizing the irreconcilable differences that have emerged.”

Atiku, who served as Nigeria’s Vice President from 1999 to 2007, thanked the PDP for offering him the platform to serve and to contest the presidency in 2019 and 2023. He also ran for president under the Action Congress in 2007 and has switched political parties several times during his career.

His exit marks another chapter in his long quest for the presidency, having contested six times under the SDP, PDP, AC, and APC.

Though he returned to the PDP in 2017, Atiku grew increasingly frustrated with the party’s internal crises, poor post-election strategies, and unresolved zoning disputes following its 2023 loss to the APC. Insiders say Atiku had become disillusioned with the leadership’s inability to reposition the PDP as a credible opposition.

In 2024, he began building alliances across party lines, leading to the formation of a new opposition coalition. While he hasn’t officially joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC), he is seen as the coalition’s central figure, pushing for electoral reforms and party democracy. The PDP has yet to respond officially, but senior officials admit the resignation is a blow and could trigger further defections ahead of 2027.

At 78, Atiku remains one of Nigeria’s most enduring political figures, known for his influence, wealth, and persistent ambition to lead the nation.

SPD Youth leader Enemi Muhammad shot dead by police officer in Kogi.

A source told SaharaReporters on Monday that the incident occurred on July 10 at the Aija roundabout near the Attah of Igala Palace in Idah.


A Nigerian police officer, identified as Constable Kebiru Bello, has allegedly shot and killed the Zonal Youth Leader of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Enemi Muhammad, in Idah Local Government Area of Kogi State.

A source told SaharaReporters on Monday that the incident occurred on July 10 at the Aija roundabout near the Attah of Igala Palace in Idah.

According to the source, three officers were sent to arrest Enemi on the orders of the Divisional Police Officer (DPO), Ihongbe J. Swetine, following an allegation that one of their colleagues had confessed to selling a rifle to him.

The source said the officers arrived in a Toyota Camry and approached Enemi.

Meanwhile, when Enemi requested to see an arrest warrant or a formal invitation to the station, one of the officers allegedly accused him of being defiant and shot him three times. It was also gathered that after the police failed to present any warrant, Enemi attempted to flee, prompting the shooting.

The source further explained that Enemi was a strong supporter of Murtala Yakubu Ajaka, widely regarded by many as the rightful winner of the 2023 Kogi governorship election.

Speaking to SaharaReporters, the source alleged that Enemi’s support for Ajaka was seen as a grave offence by those responsible, leading to his killing without any prior invitation or warning.

The source explained that local vigilantes and naval personnel are currently guarding the police station in Idah, amid fears that enraged residents may attempt to storm the facility in protest over Enemi’s killing.

The source said: "Enemi Muhammad was murdered by the police in Idah, Kogi State, on the 10th of July, 2025. The officer who pulled the trigger is Constable Kabiru Bello."

Narrating how the situation escalated, the source said: "The officers came in a Camry car. Enemi demanded to see a warrant of arrest or a formal letter inviting him to the station. Constable Kabiru Bello responded that he was being stubborn and then shot him three times.

"Enemi was the Zonal Youth Leader of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), a strong opposition party in Kogi State. He was a staunch supporter of Murtala Yakubu Ajaka. That alone, they said, was a big offence. There was no prior invitation issued to him before the attempted arrest."

I did not join Bola Ahmed Tinubu
@officialABAT
in distributing heroin and cocaine in Chicago.

I did not join
@atiku
Atiku Abubakar in looting the Nigerian Customs dry.

I did not join David Mark when he stole funds meant to fix our telephones and later helped to crush our democratic hopes on June 12.

I did not join Abubakar Malami, SAN, in violating human rights and looting the treasury under Muhammadu Buhari’s watch including banning
@Twitter
.

I did not join Nasir El-Rufai
@elrufai
in massacring Shiites and fueling religious genocide in Southern Kaduna.

I did not join
@PeterObi
at the Tin Can Ports while he cleared goods for Sani Abacha when the same Abacha that was dismantling Nigeria brick by brick.

I did not join Sule Lamido and the SDP traitors who sold out MKO Abiola and the will of the Nigerian people during June 12 struggle.

I did not join
@ChibuikeRotimi1
Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi while he gambled away Rivers State funds and abandoned the mini-rail project already paid for.

I have never joined an armed robbery gang.

I have never pledged allegiance to any cult gang—no matter how popular, powerful, or fanciful.

I have only one allegiance: to the oppressed, the disenfranchised, the cheated, the silenced. I will join only those ready and willing to end this national nightmare created by these characters listed above!

Let it be known: I stand with a vanguard of justice. A coalition of truth. A revolutionary team to restore the dignity of the Nigerian people and Africans.

Nigeria must be free from these evil doers.

#RevolutionNow ✊🏾