NASS Urged to Take Over Rivers Assembly as Fubara’s Impeachment Crisis Intensifies

Fresh pressure is mounting on the National Assembly (NASS) to intervene in the worsening Rivers State political crisis, as calls grow louder for federal lawmakers to take over the Rivers State House of Assembly amid the deepening impeachment threat against Governor Siminalayi Fubara.

Leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and several civil society organisations (CSOs) have urged NASS to invoke Section 11(4) of the 1999 Constitution, arguing that the Rivers Assembly has become dysfunctional and incapable of maintaining democratic order following its impeachment moves against the governor and his deputy, Prof. Ngozi Odu.

The groups insist that the impeachment process is politically motivated and poses a serious threat to governance and stability in the oil-rich state. They warned that failure to act swiftly could plunge Rivers into a full-blown constitutional crisis.

READ ALSO:

• Mass Defection: Kano Governor, 8 Reps, 21 Assembly Members Leave NNPP
• U.S. State of Georgia Proclaims Nnamdi Kanu Honorary Citizen 
• Grand Chief Imam of Oyo Land Pays Courtesy Visits, Engages Institutions Across Oyo Town
• US VP Vance Confirms Five‑Year‑Old Among Detainees in Immigration Crackdown

Meanwhile, the impeachment bid has suffered legal setbacks after a Rivers State High Court adjourned related proceedings indefinitely, following appeals filed by Governor Fubara and his deputy. Earlier court orders reportedly restrained actions connected to the impeachment process, leading the Rivers State Chief Judge to decline the Assembly’s request to constitute a probe panel, citing subsisting injunctions.

Despite the legal hurdles, the Rivers State House of Assembly has maintained that impeachment is a constitutional legislative function beyond judicial interference, insisting it is acting within its lawful powers. However, critics, including factions within the Rivers APC, have described the move as a calculated political offensive rather than a genuine exercise of oversight.

The crisis has continued to attract national attention amid reports of shifting political alliances and power struggles ahead of the 2027 general elections. While allies of Governor Fubara maintain that calm prevails in the state, analysts warn that prolonged institutional conflict could further destabilise governance if federal intervention is delayed.

As protests intensify and legal battles linger, Rivers State remains at the centre of a growing debate over federal intervention, constitutional authority and democratic stability, with NASS now under increasing pressure to act.

NASS Urged to Take Over Rivers Assembly as Fubara’s Impeachment Crisis Intensifies

Grand Chief Imam of Oyo Land Pays Courtesy Visits, Engages Institutions Across Oyo Town

COURTESY VISITS AND OFFICIAL ENGAGEMENTS OF THE GRAND CHIEF IMAM OF OYOLAND ACROSS OYO TOWN

The Grand Chief Imam of Oyo Land, Sheikh Al-Imam Barrister Bilal Husayn Akinola Akeugberu, on Thursday, January 22, 2026, embarked on a series of courtesy visits and official engagements across Oyo town, reinforcing his commitment to education, peaceful coexistence, and community development.

The visit, which drew wide attention across Oyo State, saw the Grand Chief Imam accompanied by members of his entourage and representatives of Islamic organisations. Representing Robithotul Sabab were Dr. Habibullahi and Maradesa Ibrahim Alagbada El-Mufty, who joined the delegation throughout the engagements.

Thanksgiving Visit to Alma Mater

COURTESY VISITS AND OFFICIAL ENGAGEMENTS OF THE GRAND CHIEF IMAM OF OYOLAND ACROSS OYO TOWN

The first stop was RCM (St. Mary’s Catholic) Primary School, Ashogo, Oyo, the alma mater of the Grand Chief Imam. A thanksgiving programme was held to appreciate the school, its former administrators, and teachers for their role in shaping his early education. The visit, described as deeply emotional, highlighted the Imam’s values of gratitude, humility, and respect for educators as pillars of societal growth.

READ ALSO:

• US VP Vance Confirms Five‑Year‑Old Among Detainees in Immigration Crackdown
• One Dead in Multiple Truck Crash at Otedola Bridge
• Shell Announces $20 Billion Investment in Nigeria’s Oil & Gas Sector

Engagements at Emmanuel Alayande University of Education

COURTESY VISITS AND OFFICIAL ENGAGEMENTS OF THE GRAND CHIEF IMAM OF OYOLAND ACROSS OYO TOWN

The delegation later moved to Emmanuel Alayande University of Education, Oyo, where they visited the Department of Arabic and Islamic Studies and met with academic staff. The entourage was subsequently received by the Vice-Chancellor and members of the university management at the Vice-Chancellor’s Office.

In his address, the Grand Chief Imam of Oyo Land stressed the strong link between faith, education, and community service, noting that universities play a crucial role not only in academic development but also in shaping character, values, and responsible leadership. He commended the university for promoting knowledge, leadership, and social harmony.

Responding, the Vice-Chancellor spoke on the ongoing construction of the university mosque, expressing hope that it would be completed during his tenure. The Grand Chief Imam assured the management of divine facilitation for the project, urging the presentation of cost details and affirming that many faithful are ready to support the advancement of the Deen.

Visit to Atiba University, Oyo

COURTESY VISITS AND OFFICIAL ENGAGEMENTS OF THE GRAND CHIEF IMAM OF OYOLAND ACROSS OYO TOWN

From Emmanuel Alayande University, the entourage proceeded to Atiba University, Oyo, where the Imam met with the university management and members of the Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria (MSSN). The meeting featured constructive discussions, mutual appreciation, and optimism about positive institutional growth.

Community Reception at Aremo Stadium

The day’s activities culminated at Aremo Stadium, where prominent sons of Oyo Land gathered to welcome the Grand Chief Imam, a gesture that underscored the deep respect and affection he enjoys across the ancient city.

Overall, the visits showcased the Grand Chief Imam of Oyo Land’s enduring dedication to education advocacy, interfaith harmony, gratitude to his roots, and community development, cutting across religious and institutional boundaries in Oyo town.

Grand Chief Imam of Oyo Land Pays Courtesy Visits, Engages Institutions Across Oyo Town

NAHCON, Saudi Hajj Ministry Hold Strategic Talks to Boost 2026 Hajj Preparations

Abuja, Nigeria — The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) and the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah have held high-level strategic talks aimed at ensuring a smooth and well-coordinated 2026 Hajj pilgrimage. The meeting focused on pilgrim welfare, accommodation, visa processing, and airlift logistics.

The Saudi delegation, led by Professor Dr. Ghassan Al‑Nuaimi, reviewed Nigeria’s readiness, including airline arrangements, accommodation planning in Makkah and Madinah, and compliance with pre-arrival documentation. NAHCON emphasized that all pilgrims must submit complete paperwork at least 72 hours before departure in line with Saudi regulations.

READ ALSO:

• Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria (MSSN): From Humble Beginnings to a Pillar of Islamic Leadership
• Fayose Reveals Alleged Details of Tinubu‑Makinde Meeting
• Nigerian Army Recruit Dies During Training in Zaria

During the meeting, NAHCON requested additional Hajj slots, addressed recurring visa challenges, and sought Saudi support for accommodation and airline approvals. The Saudi team assured that technical teams would review these requests to ensure a seamless experience for Nigerian pilgrims.

Ahead of the main ministerial visit, an advance Saudi team arrived in Abuja to lay the groundwork for the upcoming meetings with Nigerian authorities, including engagements with Vice President Kashim Shettima. NAHCON has also engaged state pilgrims’ welfare boards and licensed tour operators to ensure full compliance with operational standards.

Preparations for the 2026 Hajj have been ongoing, with NAHCON completing pre-Hajj visits to Saudi Arabia, securing agreements with service providers, and training staff to ensure efficient pilgrim management. Both Nigerian and Saudi authorities reaffirmed their commitment to safe, organized, and successful Hajj operations this year.

NAHCON, Saudi Hajj Ministry Hold Strategic Talks to Boost 2026 Hajj Preparations