Despite Threats, her Constituents Give Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan a Warm Reception.

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, received an enthusiastic welcome from her constituents today, despite a ban on public gatherings imposed by the state government and a curfew enacted by the Local Government Chairman. The senator, who has been embroiled in political controversies in recent months, was seen celebrating alongside her supporters, demonstrating a bold display of solidarity. This vibrant reception, which occurred on Tuesday in defiance of state authorities and the Nigerian police, underscored the strong support she commands within her district. A video shared by Trustbase News captured thousands of her supporters and well-wishers gathered in a lively atmosphere as the senator danced to traditional music. Waving a Nigerian flag, she expressed her appreciation and reaffirmed her dedication to the sovereignty of Nigeria. The festive scene stood in stark contrast to the political challenges she has faced recently. Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan has encountered increasing controversy, having been suspended from the Senate for six months last month due to alleged violations of legislative protocols. Additionally, efforts are underway to initiate her recall from the Senate, further escalating the political drama surrounding her position. The senator contends that her political challenges are a result of her recent allegations of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio, asserting that influential figures are leveraging legislative actions to suppress her voice. Her public reception, despite government-imposed restrictions, indicates sustained grassroots support. As tensions mount regarding her political future, this bold display of backing may complicate any attempts to oust her from office. It has also been reported that Amoka Monday, the Chairman of Okehi Local Government Area, has instituted an indefinite curfew throughout the council area, citing security concerns and the necessity of maintaining public order. The decision was made in light of increased political activities, particularly regarding the anticipated return of Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan. In a statement released personally, the council Chairman indicated that the curfew was in accordance with the directives from the Kogi State government and the Commissioner of Police. Monday explained that the curfew is intended to prevent what he termed unauthorized political gatherings and uncontrolled public assemblies that could pose a risk to peace and stability in the area. “The curfew, which is effective immediately, limits movement and public gatherings in specified locations. “Individuals found lingering or congregating in restricted areas without prior authorization from the appropriate authorities will face arrest and prosecution,” the statement indicated. The chairman emphasized that ensuring the security and stability of residents is a primary concern for his administration. He cautioned that any actions likely to provoke unrest or disturb public order would not be accepted. “The safety of our citizens is of utmost importance. We will not permit any circumstances that could threaten the peace and stability of our communities,” Monday asserted. The curfew was implemented amid escalating political tensions in Kogi State, particularly related to Senator Natasha, a prominent opposition figure. In addition to her ongoing allegations of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Senator Natasha has been a vocal critic of the state government, advocating for electoral integrity and economic progress in the region. Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan has frequently been at odds with state government officials and the ruling party over governance matters. Her planned visit to her home district in Okene has raised alarms among local authorities, who are concerned about possible confrontations between political supporters and adversaries. The enforcement of a curfew and the prohibition of rallies are interpreted by some analysts as a proactive strategy to stifle opposition activities in anticipation of the upcoming election cycle. As previously reported, the Kogi State Command of the Nigeria Police Force has prohibited the scheduled homecoming rally for Senator Natasha. This decision has incited anger among her supporters, who perceive it as politically driven. However, the Command, through a statement released on Tuesday by its Public Relations Officer, SP William Ovye Aya, defended the ban by citing intelligence reports that indicated plans by troublemakers to take over the event and incite disorder. The police reiterated their commitment to preventing any actions that could disturb the current peace in the state. Additionally, the Kogi State Government has supported the decision, asserting that it is essential for maintaining order and preventing the spread of misinformation. In the meantime, residents have shared a variety of opinions regarding the curfew.

The Presidency Explains Tinubu's Reason for Visiting Paris.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is set to travel to Paris, France, today for a brief working visit. During this trip, he will evaluate the midterm performance of his administration and review significant achievements. The retreat will also serve as an opportunity to assess the progress of ongoing reforms and to engage in strategic planning in anticipation of the second anniversary of his administration. This reflective period aims to enhance current reforms and expedite national development priorities for the upcoming year. Recent economic advancements underscore the President's dedication to these initiatives, highlighted by the Central Bank of Nigeria's report of a substantial rise in net foreign exchange reserves to $23.11 billion, a notable increase from $3.99 billion in 2023, reflecting the administration's fiscal reforms. While he is away, President Tinubu will remain actively involved with his team and continue to oversee governance matters. He is expected to return to Nigeria in approximately two weeks. Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President (Information & Strategy) April 2, 2025

BREAKING: Another Lawmaker is Lost by the Abia PDP to the Labour Party.

Hon. Ugochukwu Collins, the representative for Isiala Ngwa North State Constituency in the Abia State House of Assembly, has officially left the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to join the Labour Party (LP). His change of party affiliation was communicated in a letter to the Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Emeruwa, which was presented during the plenary session on Wednesday. This announcement follows the recent defection of Hon. Lucky Nweke Johnson, who represents Isuikwuato constituency, from the PDP to the LP just a week prior. Additionally, Rowland Dennis, the member for Isiala Ngwa South constituency, also transitioned from the PDP to the LP in February.

Calling for Calm, Odey Meets With New Police Chiefs Over the Watt Market Shooting.

Acting Governor of Cross River State, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, convened a meeting with the newly appointed Commissioner of Police for the Cross River State Command, Mr. Olusegun Eyitayo Omosayin, and the Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) overseeing Zone 6, Mr. Mustapha Mohammed Bala, to address the recent police shooting incident at Watt Market in Calabar. During the meeting, the police leaders provided Governor Odey with details regarding the incident, denouncing the officer's conduct as intolerable and confirming that a comprehensive investigation is currently in progress. The Acting Governor expressed significant concern regarding the event, advocating for strict measures to avert future occurrences and highlighting the necessity for improved training and discipline among law enforcement personnel. This meeting followed the Acting Governor's visit to the family of the deceased victim to offer condolences, where he encouraged the public to maintain calm and assured them of the state government's dedication to achieving justice and preventing similar events in the future. Additionally, the Acting Governor praised Hon. Effiong Akarika, a member of the House of Assembly, for his courageous actions at the scene and reiterated his administration's commitment to collaborating closely with the police and other security agencies to combat crime and uphold Cross River's status as one of the safest states in Nigeria.

MD. Birkari Ltd. Receives the 2025 Most Outstanding Social Impact Personality Award from BAMA.

The Bayelsa Merit and Enterprise Award has honored Mr. Bright Ayibakari, a distinguished entrepreneur and Managing Director of Brikari Ltd, with the 2025 Most Outstanding Social Impact Personality Award. During the award presentation at the Brikari Office on Old Azikoro Road, Okaka in Yenagoa, Comrade Elliot Zamide, the Organising Secretary of the Bayelsa Merit and Enterprise Award, represented the Board of Directors. He explained that BAMA serves as a collective of media professionals dedicated to recognizing individuals who excel in their fields and contribute positively to societal development. The award acknowledges Mr. Ayibakari's selfless service and philanthropic efforts, which transcend tribal, linguistic, and religious boundaries. Comrade Zamide highlighted that Mr. Ayibakari was nominated for this honor by individuals who recognized his exemplary character and his welcoming demeanor. In his acceptance speech, Mr. Ayibakari expressed profound gratitude to BAMA for this recognition, viewing it as an impetus to enhance his service to humanity. He mentioned that his organization employs over 769 administrative and operational staff in Yenagoa, including both local residents and non-indigenes, who are responsible for waste management in the state capital. He committed to hiring an additional 42 youths, emphasizing that meaningful employment can divert them from crime and criminal activities. The Managing Director of Brikari urged those in positions of privilege to regard their roles as divine opportunities to assist others and to remain humble. In response to inquiries regarding the prevention of refuse overflow from waste dumps onto the streets of Yenagoa, a situation that was prevalent before his company assumed responsibility for waste management, Bright Ayibakari, the Managing Director of Brikari Ltd, stated that they are well-versed in implementing innovative solutions for environmental management. The entrepreneur and philanthropist, originally from Olugboboro in the Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, emphasized that he views this role not merely as a business opportunity but as a commitment to providing improved services to the community. He expressed his intention to recruit more young individuals from all local governments in the state, including non-indigenes, asserting that everyone residing in Bayelsa contributes to the local economy and shares in the marketplace. He believes that inclusivity in these efforts will foster peaceful coexistence within the state. Mr. Bright Ayibakari also expressed his gratitude to the Bayelsa Merit and Enterprise Award for recognizing him with this honor, which he regards as a significant acknowledgment from journalists, a vital segment of society.

After Allegedly Killing his Pregnant Fiancée and 3-Year-Old Daughter 11 Days Before Their Wedding, a Man is on the Run.

A shocking murder has disturbed the Ovbiogoe Community in Edo State, where a man named Wealth Nnamdi is accused of killing his partner and her three-year-old daughter. This tragic event took place on March 18, just 11 days prior to the couple's planned wedding on March 29, 2025. At the time of the incident, the fiancée was reportedly pregnant. According to a statement from Moses Joel Yamu, the spokesperson for the Edo State Police Command, a worried neighbor alerted authorities to a foul smell coming from the deceased's residence on Idiangbona Street. Upon their arrival, police found the decomposing bodies of the woman, referred to as "Mama Hallelujah," and her daughter, Miracle, with a machete wound on the woman's head. Initial investigations have identified Wealth Nnamdi, the victim's live-in partner, as the primary suspect. However, he has since fled, and law enforcement is actively seeking to locate him. The police are encouraging anyone with information regarding Nnamdi's location to come forward.

Tinubu is Commended by the CDC for Creating the South South Development Commission.

The Community Development Committees (CDC) representing the Niger-Delta Oil and Gas Producing Areas have expressed their appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for the creation of the South South Development Commission (SSDC). The CDC regards this initiative as a crucial advancement towards national restructuring and empowerment, facilitated by a well-coordinated plan for sustainable regional development. Dr. Joseph Ambakederimo, the Chairman of the CDC’s Board of Trustees, noted that past efforts to improve the region have often been obstructed by political elites and opportunists. The CDC calls on President Tinubu to select individuals of outstanding integrity for the Commission to avoid the influence of partisanship, ethnicity, and elitism. Furthermore, the CDC underscores the importance of the Commission focusing on building partnerships and collaborations with related agencies to enhance the effectiveness of policies and programs aimed at benefiting the region.