Asari Dokubo Warns Igbo Groups Against Sparking Religious Conflict in Rivers

Port Harcourt — Former Niger Delta militant leader and activist, Asari Dokubo, has cautioned Igbo residents and groups against any attempts to instigate a religious crisis in Rivers State, warning that such actions could destabilise the state.

In a video widely shared on social media, Dokubo urged individuals and organisations to refrain from acts capable of triggering violence, emphasising that Rivers State must not become a theatre of religious conflict. He reportedly warned of serious consequences for anyone attempting to foment unrest in the oil-rich region.

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Known for his outspoken views on regional and political issues, Dokubo highlighted the importance of peace and stability in Rivers State, which is economically significant due to its oil and gas resources.

His comments have sparked mixed reactions. The apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, dismissed claims that Igbo groups were planning any form of religious war, affirming that Igbo residents in Rivers State are law-abiding and committed to peaceful coexistence.

Security authorities in the state are reportedly monitoring the situation closely, amid concerns that inflammatory rhetoric could heighten tensions in a region with a diverse ethnic and religious composition.

Observers stress that dialogue, mutual respect, and proactive conflict prevention are crucial to maintain stability in Rivers State, particularly given its history of political and communal tensions.

As of the filing of this report, the Rivers State Government has not issued an official statement regarding Dokubo’s comments.

Asari Dokubo Warns Igbo Groups Against Sparking Religious Conflict in Rivers

Bauchi Reduces Working Hours for Civil Servants During Ramadan

The Bauchi State Government has announced a reduction in working hours for civil servants during the holy month of Ramadan, aimed at accommodating fasting schedules and religious observances.

A statement issued by the State Head of Service, Dr. Yusuf Gidado, directed all civil service offices to adjust their working hours from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm throughout the month. The adjustment applies to both permanent and contract staff across all ministries, departments, and agencies.

Dr. Gidado urged civil servants to use the shortened working hours productively, maintain high performance, and continue delivering efficient public services to residents.

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The government noted that the decision was part of its commitment to supporting employees during religious observances, ensuring they can fulfill both spiritual and professional duties without undue strain.

Officials also reminded staff to adhere to workplace regulations and maintain discipline despite the adjusted schedule, emphasizing that public service continuity remains a priority.

This move follows similar initiatives by other states in Nigeria that seek to balance work efficiency with religious observance during Ramadan.

Bauchi Reduces Working Hours for Civil Servants During Ramadan

E‑Transmission Alone Cannot Guarantee Free, Fair Elections – Shehu Sani

Former Kaduna Central senator, Shehu Sani, has warned that electronic transmission (e‑transmission) of election results cannot, by itself, ensure free and fair elections in Nigeria, stressing the need for strong institutions, political will, and proper enforcement of electoral laws.

Sani made the remarks during an appearance on Sunrise Daily on Channels Television, where he reacted to the recent amendment of the Electoral Act by the National Assembly. Under the amendment, the Senate approved e‑transmission of results, while retaining manual collation as a backup system, a compromise that has generated widespread public debate.

According to Sani, while e‑transmission technology can improve transparency and accountability, it is not a panacea for electoral malpractice.

“Electronic transfer does not mean that we’re going to have 100% free and fair elections. There is no electoral system that those who intend to rig would not be able to circumvent. Now you have manual voting and electronic transfer of results,” Sani explained.

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He argued that the real determinant of credible elections is the intent and integrity of those managing the process. When authorities are genuinely committed to fairness, elections are credible. However, where manipulation is intended, loopholes will always be exploited.

Sani also highlighted vote-buying and voter inducement as major challenges. He noted that, despite laws against such practices, authorities lack the manpower to monitor every community effectively.

“You can have laws everywhere that voters should not be induced with money or material gifts, they will still do that, and we don’t have the manpower to ensure compliance in every nook and cranny,” he said.

The former lawmaker stressed that meaningful electoral reform must go beyond technology, including:

1. Political will from leaders to respect electoral outcomes
2. Strict enforcement of electoral laws
3. Independent and well-resourced institutions like INEC
4. Robust voter education and civic engagement

Experts and civil society groups have echoed Sani’s concerns, emphasizing that structural weaknesses, political interference, and poor electoral management remain major obstacles. While e‑transmission can enhance result integrity, it must be part of a comprehensive reform framework addressing all stages of the electoral process — from voter registration to result collation.

Sani’s remarks come amid national discussions on electoral reform and building public trust in Nigeria’s elections, especially ahead of the 2027 general elections.

E‑Transmission Alone Cannot Guarantee Free, Fair Elections – Shehu Sani