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Coalition of Good Governance Advocates Defends Senate President Akpabio Against Allegations.
In a recent statement, the Citizens Network for Peace and Development (CNPD), a coalition dedicated to promoting good governance, has raised concerns regarding an alleged campaign to undermine the reputation of Senate President Godswill Akpabio. This coalition asserts that the accusations against Akpabio, particularly those made by Rivers State statesman Chief Anabs Sara-Igbe, are unfounded and part of a broader scheme to tarnish his image in the Niger Delta region.
Sara-Igbe criticized Akpabio’s tenure as Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, expressing disappointment in his performance and the handling of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC). While acknowledging Akpabio’s achievements as the governor of Akwa Ibom State, Sara-Igbe described his ministerial leadership as a failure, particularly referencing the controversial forensic audit of the NDDC.
In response, CNPD has characterized these criticisms as orchestrated attacks from “professional detractors” aimed at distracting Akpabio from his legislative duties. Barr. Francis Okereke Wainwei, Executive Director of CNPD, emphasized the need to recognize Akpabio’s contributions to transparency within the NDDC, arguing that the forensic audit was a necessary step toward accountability.
The coalition urged critics to adopt a more factual and constructive approach in their assessments of Akpabio’s leadership. They called upon Chief Sara-Igbe to conduct a thorough analysis of Akpabio’s ministerial tenure and to issue an apology for what they deemed a “spurious” statement.
CNPD condemned the dissemination of falsehoods intended to undermine political leaders, warning that such actions could hinder effective governance and development in Nigeria. They called for a cessation of these damaging narratives, advocating for a more supportive and constructive political discourse.
In conclusion, the CNPD stands firm in its defense of Senate President Godswill Akpabio, urging all stakeholders to prioritize the collective development of the Niger Delta over personal political agendas.
The Federal Government has declared Tuesday, July 15, 2025, a public holiday to honor the late former President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away on Sunday at the age of 82. The announcement was made by the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, on behalf of the Federal Government, following President Bola Tinubu’s approval. This declaration is part of the ongoing seven-day national mourning period.
In a statement, the Minister described Buhari as a leader who served Nigeria with dedication and integrity, emphasizing the holiday’s purpose: to allow Nigerians to reflect on his contributions to the nation’s democratic journey and national development. Citizens are urged to use this day to promote peace, patriotism, and national cohesion, aligning with the late President’s vision for a united and prosperous Nigeria. During the mourning period, national flags will fly at half-mast. The Federal Government has expressed its deepest condolences to the family, the people of Katsina State, and all Nigerians.
The Nigeria Police Force has announced the successful dismantling of two major human trafficking syndicates operating across the country. In coordinated sting operations spanning Enugu, Anambra, and Ondo States, law enforcement rescued numerous victims, including children, pregnant women, and foreign nationals, and apprehended 11 suspects.
Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, issued a statement from the Force Headquarters in Abuja, commending the officers involved for their bravery and precision.
In one operation spearheaded by the Zone-13 Police Command, authorities targeted a child trafficking and “baby factory” ring. Eight suspects were arrested, including Uzoamaka Ani (27), Joy Madu (52), and Victoria Onodu Akasike (56), who allegedly confessed to involvement in child abduction, illegal adoption, and operating unlicensed medical facilities used as baby factories. The syndicate operated strategically across communities in Enugu and Anambra States, preying on vulnerable women and children. Rescued victims included a seven-month-old baby, a four-year-old child, and two pregnant women, all discovered in a secluded village. The expectant mothers, from Ebonyi State, were reportedly lured and detained for forced childbirth, with the intent to sell their newborns. The victims are currently receiving medical and psychological support under protective custody, while the search continues for fleeing members of the syndicate.
In a separate incident in Ondo State, an operation led by the state police resulted in the rescue of David Angerinya, a Ghanaian national trafficked into Nigeria under false pretenses. This operation stemmed from a formal petition from the Interpol Liaison Office in Abuja, highlighting a suspected case of transnational human trafficking. Investigators uncovered a broader international trafficking network and arrested three suspects: Hayford Nyamekye, Awine Alex, and Kojo Felix. These individuals were allegedly part of a syndicate deceiving individuals from neighboring West African countries with false promises of jobs and travel visas to destinations like Canada, only to hold them in exploitative conditions in Nigeria. During the raid, police discovered 39 additional Ghanaian nationals, many without valid travel documents or with expired passports, and in dire health conditions. These victims are now receiving medical treatment.
Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, praised the officers for their swift response and dedication to dismantling trafficking networks. He reaffirmed the Police Force’s commitment to combating human trafficking, child exploitation, and cross-border crimes. He urged Nigerians to report suspicious activities to the nearest police station.
The Inspector-General emphasized the Police Force’s commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals and ensuring perpetrators are brought to justice, stating, “These operations send a strong and clear message: there is no hiding place for human traffickers in Nigeria.” He added that the Nigeria Police Force will continue working to disrupt criminal networks and safeguard the rights and dignity of all individuals within the nation’s borders.
Nigeria’s former President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away in London at the age of 82 after a prolonged illness, will be buried in his hometown of Daura, Katsina State. Governor Dikko Umaru Radda confirmed that the repatriation of Buhari’s body from the United Kingdom is scheduled for Tuesday, with the burial taking place on the same day.
Preparations for the burial are underway in Daura. Vice President Kashim Shettima is currently in London overseeing the repatriation process.
Buhari, who previously served as a military leader from 1984 to 1985, held consecutive presidential terms from 2015 to 2023. He was the first opposition figure to democratically ascend to the presidency in Nigeria.
President Bola Tinubu has ordered national flags to fly at half-mast for seven days and declared that Buhari will receive full state honors. Tributes have poured in, with Tinubu lauding Buhari as “a patriot, a soldier, a statesman.” Former military ruler Ibrahim Babangida also acknowledged Buhari’s patriotism, despite past disagreements. While remembered for his integrity, some observers have noted Buhari’s challenges in improving Nigeria’s economy and security during his tenure.
Public Holiday Declared on 15th July in Honour of Late Former President Buhari.
Nigeria Police Dismantles Trafficking Syndicates, Rescues Victims in Coordinated Operations.
