Against reports of discontent among members of the defunct Congress for Progressive Change CPC, one of the legacy parties which formed the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, leaders of the bloc have passed a vote of confidence on President Bola Tinubu.
Politics
As Senate resumes, Akpabio denies sexual harassment, Natasha submits petition
As Senate resumes, Akpabio denies sexual harassment, Natasha submits petition
Senate President Godswill Akpabio on Wednesday denied allegations of sexual harassment brought against him by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
He spoke at the resumption of plenary in the Senate, after a week’s recess.
Senator Akpabio said, “At no time did I ever harass any woman. I was raised very well by my late single mother, and I have always upheld respect for women. I was even awarded the most gender-friendly governor in Nigeria.”
The Senate President, who said he had been inundated with calls on the matter since February 25, and that he was aware of the growing social media discourse, urged Nigerians, the media, and social media users to refrain from drawing conclusions and instead await the court’s decision on the matter.
However, immediately after his remarks, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan raised a petition under Order 40, accusing the Senate President of sexual harassment and abuse of office.
She requested permission to step forward and formally lay the petition before the chamber.
The Senate subsequently referred the petition to the Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Code of Conduct, directing it to review the matter as soon as practicable.
The controversy started in February when a seat rearrangement led to a confrontation between Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan and the Senate President.
This led to the allegation of sexual harassment by Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, and raising fresh concerns about decorum and conduct within the legislative body.
On Wednesday, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan arrived at the Senate Chamber in the company with her husband.
She shared a brief kiss with her husband before proceeding into the chamber to take her seat.
However, she refused to stand on the arrival of Akpabio for the commencement of plenary.
Police fire tear gas at Natasha supporters
Police officers fired tear gas to prevent supporters of Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan from accessing the National Assembly Complex on Wednesday.
The protesters had converged on the National Assembly gate as early as 8am ahead of resumption of plenary.
They carried placards bearing inscriptions such as ‘Akpabio must go’, ‘Protect women’s rights’, and ‘Protect Natasha at all costs’.
The police moved in swiftly, firing tear gas cannisters at them.
The crowd later moved to the Unity Fountain.
Politics
Northern youths promise Tinubu two million votes in 2027
Northern youths promise Tinubu two million votes in 2027
In a bold show of political strength and regional solidarity, the Northern Nigeria Youths Union (NNYU) has pledged to deliver a staggering two million votes for President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 General Elections.
Speaking after a high-powered strategic meeting in Jos, Plateau State, the Chairman of the group, Hon. Abubakar Aliyu, who also holds the traditional title of Galadiman Takai, made the dramatic announcement, describing the union’s commitment as “unshakeable and rooted in patriotism.”
“This declaration follows a massive convergence of passionate Northern youths – both male and female – united by one cause: the continued leadership of Tinubu,” Aliyu declared in a fiery statement released to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
He credited the President’s “unrelenting commitment” to infrastructure and national development, particularly the North, for inspiring the movement. Highlighting Tinubu’s flagship project, the Abuja-Kaduna-Kano superhighway, he said:
“It’s a three-lane marvel on each side. That road alone is a symbol of hope, progress, and a better tomorrow for the North and beyond.”
READ ALSO:
- FCT traffic service confirms sale of number plates by touts
- $2.3bn Siemens power project idle before Tinubu came – Minister
- Filling stations yet to reduce petrol price after Dangote slashes rate
Aliyu also pointed to what he described as the “miraculous crash” in the prices of food and fuel during the just-concluded Ramadan, noting:
“The impact was clear to every Nigerian. For once, the markets breathed. The people felt relief. And they know who made that happen.”
With over 65,000 registered members across the 19 Northern states – both Muslims and Christians – the group insists it is powered solely by volunteer energy and nationalist zeal.
“We didn’t collect a kobo from anyone. This is pure patriotism. We are the people, and we will mobilise voters en masse. The 2027 votes will shock the doubters,” he asserted.
He added that the group’s mobilisation efforts would focus on ensuring that thousands more are registered and equipped with valid voter cards before the polls.
In a pointed appeal to the President, Aliyu urged Tinubu to place his appointees under tight scrutiny to ensure effective governance.
“Let those in government know they are there to serve, not to squander. The people deserve to feel the presence of government at all levels,” he stated.
With this powerful declaration, the political temperature in the North may have just been turned up – and President Tinubu could be looking at a major electoral advantage as 2027 draws near.
Northern youths promise Tinubu two million votes in 2027
Politics
Buhari’s men pass vote of confidence in Tinubu
Buhari’s men pass confidence vote in Tinubu
The CPC bloc had former President Muhammadu Buhari as its leader before the merger to form the APC.
Since the defection of one of its members and a former Governor of Kaduna State, Malam Nasir el-Rufai to Social Democratic Party, SDP, there had been concerns that the CPC bloc in the APC was feeling marginalized and planning to ditch the ruling party.
Since the defection of one of its members and a former Governor of Kaduna State, Malam Nasir el-Rufai to Social Democratic Party, SDP, there had been concerns that the CPC bloc in the APC was feeling marginalized and planning to ditch the ruling party.
The bloc in a resolution, yesterday, said: “Recent misleading narratives suggesting defection or discontent among CPC stakeholders are baseless, mischievous, and should be disregarded.
“We remain a vital part of the APC, fully committed to its leadership and vision.”
Those who signed the resolutions include a former Governor of Nasarawa State, Senator Umaru Al-Makura, former Governor of Katsina State and ex-House Speaker, Aminu Masari, Mallam Adamu Adamu, Senator Ibrahim Musa, Senator Mustafa Salihu, Farouk Aliyu, Almajiri Geidam, Waziri Bulama, Dr. Nasiru Argungu and Dr. Dominic Alancha.
Others were Ayuba Balami, Mr. Osita Okechukwu, Chief Okoi Obono-Obla, Lucy Ajayi, Captain Bala Jibrin, Uche Ufearoh, Alh. Yusuf Salihu, Abubakar Maikudi, Engr. Mutallib Badmus, Alh. Muhammed Datti, Muhammed Etsu, Chief Jerry Johnson and Alh. Alkali Ajikolo.
Part of the resolutions read: “We, the undersigned leaders and dedicated members of the former CPC, instrumental in the historic merger that birthed the APC, issue this statement to reaffirm our unwavering loyalty to our great party and express our strong solidarity with the administration of President Tinubu.
READ ALSO:
- Serial killer surrenders to police in Kano
- FG considers cushioning measures for Trump’s tariffs
- Rivers administrator Ibas denies summoning Fubara, deputy
“Recent misleading narratives suggesting defection or discontent among CPC stakeholders are baseless, mischievous, and should be disregarded. We remain a vital part of the APC, fully committed to its leadership and vision.
“We categorically state that we have neither left the APC nor do we intend to leave. The CPC bloc remains one of the APC’s foundational pillars, and we are resolute in our commitment to the party and its progressive ideals.
“As a legacy party within the APC, we take pride in the sacrifices made to build a platform that fosters national unity, justice, and development. We will not allow individuals to dismantle the party we helped build through years of tireless dedication.
“Attempts to sow disunity within the party and the country do not reflect the will or position of genuine CPC core members and are wholly unacceptable.
“We fully endorse the economic and governance reforms led by President Tinubu. While these policies may present challenges, they are crucial steps toward rebuilding our economy and securing a prosperous future for all Nigerians. We urge patience and collective support as their benefits unfold.
“We acknowledge that some members may feel sidelined, but such concerns are not unique to any one bloc. We encourage those affected to seek redress through established constitutional channels within the party, rather than resorting to negative public agitation or hasty exits.
“At this pivotal moment in Nigeria’s democratic journey, all APC members, especially those deeply rooted in the party’s formation, must work together to preserve its legacy and consolidate Nigeria’s democracy. Actions that undermine our unity and national stability must be avoided.
“We urge APC leadership to increase engagement with members at all levels. Strengthening internal communication will foster inclusiveness, reduce tensions, and enhance support for the party’s programs. Party unity must be continuously nurtured to sustain past gains and secure a prosperous future.
“We therefore reaffirm our loyalty to the APC and our steadfast support for President Tinubu. The CPC family remains a crucial pillar of the APC and will continue to play a responsible role in its growth and in Nigeria’s progress.”
Buhari’s men pass confidence vote in Tinubu
Politics
Rivers administrator Ibas denies summoning Fubara, deputy
Rivers administrator Ibas denies summoning Fubara, deputy
Sole Administrator of Rivers, Ibok-Ete Ibas, has denied summoning suspended governor of the state, Siminalayi Fubara, and his deputy, Ngozi Odu.
There were claims that the sole administrator had summoned Fubara to appear before a panel of inquiry regarding the appointments he made before his suspension.
President Bola Tinubu declared an emergency rule in Rivers on March 18, citing the protracted political crisis in the state.
Tinubu also suspended Fubara, Ngozi Odu, his deputy, and all members of the Rivers assembly for a period of six months.
The President appointed Ibas, a retired naval chief, as the state’s sole administrator.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Permanent Secretary in the office of the secretary to the Rivers State government,Dede Friday, described the report as a malicious fabrication.
The statement read, “The Rivers State Government has become aware of fraudulent announcements circulating on social media, falsely attributed to the Office of the Secretary to the State Government (SSG).
“These malicious fabrications are designed to mislead the public, create panic, and disrupt the peace in Rivers State.
“One such fake announcement falsely claims that His Excellency, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, the suspended Governor of Rivers State, and the Deputy Governor, Prof. Mrs. Ngozi Nma Odu, were summoned to a meeting at the Government House on Friday, April 18, 2025.
“The Rivers State Government categorically states that this announcement is fake and did not originate from any official source.”
Friday urged the public to disregard the report, adding that it is the work of “troublemakers”.
-
Business2 days ago5 facts about trending digital trading platform, CBEX
-
Insurance1 day agoLasaco Assurance attains ISO/IEC 27001:2022 certification for information security management
-
metro3 days agoRivers administrator demands N300m refund from NBA after relocating conference
-
International2 days agoObama reacts as Trump freezes $2.3b Harvard University funding
-
Politics3 days ago2027: PDP governors reject alliance of opposition parties
-
metro2 days agoBREAKING: Court strikes out defection suit against 27 pro-Wike Rivers lawmakers
-
metro2 days agoNatasha’s allegation against Akpabio has contradictions – Agbakoba
-
Politics1 day agoNNPP lawmakers seek to rejoin APC after fallout with Kwankwaso