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By Kayode Sanni-Arewa
The lingering crisis engulfing the position of the National Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has intensified, as the Concerned People’s Democratic League (CPDPL) has strongly reaffirmed its support for Senator Samuel Nnameka Anyanwu, insisting that he remains the legitimate occupant of the office.
At a press conference in Abuja on Friday, CPDPL’s apex leader, Co Daboikiabo Z. Warmate, launched a scathing attack on some high-ranking members of the party, accusing them of spreading misinformation and engaging in acts of sabotage aimed at unlawfully removing Anyanwu.
He singled out member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Ikenga Ugochinyere, National Publicity Secretary Debo Olunulagba, National Legal Adviser Kamaladin Ajibade (SAN), and suspended PDP Board of Trustees (BoT) Chairman, Senator Adolphus Wabara, alleging that they had deliberately violated the PDP’s constitution to advance their personal interests.
He also accused Senator Adolphus Wabara, the suspended PDP BoT Chairman, of tampering with the BoT list to include Sunday Udeh Okoye, which led to an invasion of the PDP national secretariat by political thugs.
According to Warmate, the suspended BoT Chairman is executing a broader scheme designed to destabilize the PDP from within.
He described Wabara as someone who had previously used court orders to his advantage but was now attempting to deny Anyanwu the same legal protections.
He warned PDP members against aligning with what he called an illegal takeover, urging party loyalists to recognize Anyanwu as the rightful National Secretary.
Despite the ongoing turbulence, Warmate commended the PDP National Chairman for his leadership and urged party members to remain committed to the ideals of the party. He insisted that attempts to destabilize the PDP would ultimately fail.
The CPDPL also called on PDP faithful to ignore what it described as false narratives being pushed by those seeking to undermine the party’s stability. The group emphasized the need for adherence to due process and respect for court rulings.
He said, “It’s with great disappointment and shame that we have read, listened and watched the brazing lies and propaganda of Hon. Ikenga Ugochinyere, the insubordination and impersonation of the National Publicity Secretary Hon. Debo Olunulagba, the misinterpretation and misrepresentation of the PDP constitution by the National Legal Adviser Hon. Kamaladin Ajibade (SAN) and the disregard for the party constitution by the suspended BOT Chairman Sen Adolphus Wabara, as regards the national secretary position and the authentic national secretary of our great party, the PDP.
“Before we delve into the self serving and cowardice actions of the above mentioned members of our great party, let us first put the records straight as regards the genesis of the tussle for the national secretary position and who is the authentic national secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), which is most important.
“It all started when the national secretary, most distinguished Senator Samuel Nnameka Anyanwu, declared his intention to serve the good people of Imo state as governor. He contested the PDP Imo state governorship primary and won.
“Then having emerged as the PDP gubernatorial candidate in Imo state, and in preparation for the campaign, he took his annual leave between 18
April to 24 may, 2023, to enable him concentrate on ensuring PDP victory at the gubernatorial election. A letter was sent to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), to notify them and that, the deputy national secretary will act during this period.
“But due to inordinate Interest, pressure was mounted on the national secretary, most distinguished Senator Samuel Nnameka Anyanwu to resign which he politely refused. His refusal to resign {s {n consonance with section 47 (5) of the PDP constitution as amended in 2017.
“In view of the call for the resignation of the national secretary by a microscopic few, his supporters In anticipation of an evil orchestration to remove the national secretary most distinguished Senator Samuel Nnameka Anyanwu, approached the federal high court Abuja division to seek for an order restraining anyone who will want to unjustly remove him as the national secretary and that order was graciously granted by the honorable court ably led by his lordship the honorable justice I. E. Ekwo, on the 9th of January, 2024. As we speak to you, that order was neither stayed nor appealed. By implication, that order is still unarguably subsisting.
“In October 25, 2023, misinformed by forged guidelines and the citing of a mutilated section of the PDP constitution, an Enugu High Court led by Justice C.O Ajah ignorantly ruled: “That an Interim Order is hereby granted as prayed. What was the prayer? The prayer was a motion on notice filed by one Nwabueze Ugwu, urging the court to declare Anyanwu’s seat vacant due to his current position as the candidate in next month’s governorship election in Imo State.
“Furthermore, in December 20th, 2024, an Appeal Court of Enugu Division, misguided by the Misinformed judgement of the lower court, upheld the High Court’s ruling that Mr Ude-Okoye, be recognised as the national secretary of the PDP against Sen. Samuel Nnameka Anyanwu. In a 2 to 1 ruling by honorable justice Ridwan Abdullahi, the court fined the appellant one million naira.
“The appellate court based on 47(5) & 48(1) of the PDP constitution which Hon. Sunday Udeh Okoye mutilated, just like the high court said, Sen. S. N. Anyanwu’s claim to the position after he contested and emerged as the PDP governorship election candidate in Imo State violated the party’s constitution, and his appeal had no merit. Please ladies and gentlemen of the press, permit me to read the above sections for PDP faithfuls globally and Nigerians to know the real APC mole in PDP and the true enemies of PDP.
“However, the national secretary Sen. S. N. Anyanwu, as a law abiding leader of our great party swiftly in January 13, 2025, applied for a stay of execution of the judgment at the same Appeal Court in Abuja and it was granted. The stay of execution of the judgment was granted by no less a judge than the president of the court of appeal, and she enjoined all parties to maintain status quo ‘ante bellum’ pending the hearing and the determination of the motion on notice. In addition to that, he had already filed an appeal at the supreme Court against the judgment too. Despite this legal clarity, self-serving actions persist, with some even among Senior Advocates, twisting the law to advance their paid interest.
“Now having discovered that they have no constitutional basis to unseat the most distinguished Sen. S. N. Anyanwu, they resorted to engaging the services of a known liar and propagandist in the person of Ikenga Ugochinyere to pass through the back door. They didn’t only engage the service of the truculent supercilious snollygangster, infant politician Ugochiyere but also, the national legal adviser who he once accused of collecting two million dollars from the FCT Minister and Hon. DEBO Okunulagba, the most ineffective National Publicity Secretary PDP has ever produced.
“Meanwhile, Sen. Adolphus Wabara, the suspended BOT Chairman, in furtherance of his evil and unpopular agenda tempered with the BOT list and smuggled in the name of Sunday Udeh Okoye which led to the party national secretariat being invaded by thugs. Thereafter, they have been doing the bidding of their pay masters, which is to destabilize PDP. This is a man that secured two stays of execution within three days (30th May & 2nd June) in 2023, granted by Hon. Justice Welson Egbo Egbo and became a senator and Senate President via the instrumentality of that stay of execution and his is refusing to recognize the same stay of execution in the case of Sen. S. N. Anyanwu.
“But it is so shamefully embarrassing that, Sen. Wabara and his Co travelers will want to sweep over all these atrocities and criminalities committed by Sunday Udeh Okoye under the carpet. The conscience of the PDP BOT under Sen Adolphus Wabara is dead and the BOT is without a conscience and since he emerged, has not been able to galvanize two third which invalidate all their seating siace he started presiding and also most of the BOT members tenure has expired. Just like Debo, he is the worst BOT Chairman ever.
“We therefore, urge all PDP faithfuls that are ignorantly supporting an
illegality and disaster of Hon. Sunday Udeh Okoye as national secretary to stop forthwith and retract their steps. We commend the disposition of the national chairman and national secretary and the mature manner in which they handle the affairs of the party in this trying times of the party. Nobody can destroy or destabilize PDP. We insist that Sen, Samuel Anyanwu remains the authentic PDP National Secretary in line with the party constitution and other existing laws of the land,” he said.
END
The Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, has called for the involvement of more women in the leadership of the nation’s Judiciary.
Justice Kekere-Ekun argued that the involvement of more women would enrich the administration of justice in many ways, including broadening jurisprudential perspectives, reducing unconscious biases and
strengthening public confidence in legal institutions.
She spoke in Abuja on Tuesday during the opening session of the 2026 African Regional Conference of the International Association of Women Judges (IAWJ), with the theme, “Promoting Excellence in the Administration
of Justice.”
The CJN spoke about a number of factors that could contribute to the attainment of excellence in the administration of justice in any society.
Justice Kekere-Ekun said: “Excellence in the administration of justice also requires a thoughtful examination of the relationship between gender equality and the legal
system.
“The full and effective participation of women within the Judiciary has far-reaching implications for justice delivery.
Over the years, we have witnessed encouraging progress in the representation of women within Judiciaries across the world.
“Nevertheless, while notable gains have been made, particularly at entry and intermediate levels, significant work remains to be done in ensuring equal representation within leadership positions and at the highest levels of judicial decisionmaking.
“The pursuit of gender equality within the Judiciary is not merely a matter of representation; it is fundamentally a matter of institutional legitimacy.
“A Judiciary that reflects the diversity of the society it serves is better positioned to command public confidence and to appreciate the varied experiences that come before it.
“Diversity strengthens judicial deliberation, enriches legal reasoning, and ultimately enhances the quality of justice delivered.
“Ultimately, gender inclusion must be viewed as an indispensable component of the Judiciary’s commitment to fairness, equality, and the rule of law,” the CJN said.
Justice Kekere-Ekun added that excellence in the administration of justice could also be measured by the quality of judicial reasoning, the integrity of judicial officers, the fairness of judicial processes, and the confidence that citizens repose in the courts as impartial arbiters of disputes.
She noted that excellence is ultimately reflected in the ability of the Judiciary to uphold the Constitution, protect the vulnerable, preserve the rule of law, and dispense justice without fear, favour, affection or ill will.
She also identified judicial education as another factor that could contribute to the attainment of excellence in the administration of justice.
The CJN said: “Beyond enhancing professional competence, judicial education reinforces the rule of law, preserves the integrity of legal institutions, and equips judicial officers with the knowledge and skills necessary to address emerging legal challenges.
“Ultimately, continuous judicial training fosters a more responsive, efficient, and impartial justice system capable of sustaining public confidence in democratic governance.
“Professional development is therefore not a luxury but a necessity. It is an indispensable requirement for any Judiciary committed to excellence,” she said.
The First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, who featured as a special guest, noted that the Judiciary was central to the preservation of the rule of law in every democratic society.
Senator Tinubu urged participants at the event, who are from different African countries, not to relent in building judicial systems that are transparent, compassionate and firmly anchored on the rule of law.
She said: “At a time when societies across the world are advancing through new legal, technological, and social developments, the pursuit of excellence within our justice system remains both an obligation and a moral imperative.
“The Judiciary remains central to sustaining the rule of law in a democratic society, serving as the institution where justice and fairness are upheld, and the rights of citizens are protected.
“The presence of women on the bench adds value to the judicial system by broadening perspectives and deepening understanding in the dispensation of justice.
“Across Africa, women judges have broken through long-standing barriers and, by their resilience and excellence, paved the way for future generations of women in the legal profession.
“As a former Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, I understand the challenges women face while aspiring for leadership positions. This is why I remain committed to initiatives that promote equitable access to opportunities for women and girls and strengthen our democracy.
“I commend the National Association of Women Judges of Nigeria (NAWJN) for hosting this regional conference. Your sustained commitment to promoting judicial excellence, gender equity, and access to justice continues to inspire both the legal community and the wider society,” the First Lady said.
The Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN) said the role of women judges extends beyond the courtroom and pledged country’s commitment to advancing judicial reforms that champion gender inclusivity.
Represented by the Solicitor-General of the Federation, Mrs. Beatrice Jedy-Agba, Fagbemi argued that the country had already broken the glass ceiling through the appointment of women into important positions
The President of the Court of Appeal (PCA), Justice Monica Dongban-Mensem (who is also the President of the NAWJN), said the Judiciary must continue to uphold the highest standards of integrity, competence, fairness, and accountability in a rapidly evolving global landscape characterised by complex legal challenges, technological advancements and increasing public expectations.
Justice Dongban-Mensem added the country’s female judges, whose association is hosting the conference, are firmly committed to advancing judicial capacity, promoting gender equality within the judiciary, and fostering collaboration among women judges across the continent and beyond.
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, said the President Bola Tinubu-led administration will continue to provide basic infrastructure that would not only enhance the justice sector but also lend dignity to the bench.
Wike, who said the Federal Government has built over 400 befitting residences for judges in Abuja, added that the gesture was not politically motivated but done in furtherance of good governance.
By Gloria Ikibah
The Federal Government has commenced the evacuation of Nigerian nationals affected by the recent wave of xenophobic attacks in South Africa, with the first group of returnees expected to arrive in Lagos on Thursday morning.
In a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Tuesday, the government confirmed that the initial batch of evacuees will continue depart Johannesburg’s Oliver Tambo International Airport on Wednesday night aboard an Air Peace flight.
According to the Ministry, the aircraft is scheduled to land at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos at approximately 5:00 a.m. on Thursday.
Announcing the operation, the Ministry stated:
“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs wishes to inform that the first batch of Nigerian nationals that will be evacuated from the Republic of South Africa due to Xenophobic attacks will depart the Oliver Thambo International Airport in Johannesburg on Wednesday night, and the expected time of arrival at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport in Lagos is 5.00am on Thursday morning.”
The Ministry disclosed that the evacuation exercise is being carried out by Air Peace Airlines and fully financed by the Federal Government, ensuring that affected Nigerians are returned home without any financial burden.
“The evacuation operation will be undertaken by Air Peace Airlines. The Federal Government of Nigeria has fully funded the evacuation exercise; consequently, all affected Nigerians will be repatriated at no cost to them”, he stated.
Authorities also assured Nigerians that adequate arrangements have been made to receive and support the returnees upon arrival.
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The Ministry explained that relevant government agencies have put measures in place to ensure a smooth reintegration process for those being evacuated.
“The Ministry further wishes to assure the public that the Federal Government, through relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies, has put in place the necessary reception and support arrangements for the returnees.”
It added that the evacuees would undergo documentation and profiling procedures before receiving assistance and being reunited with their families.
“Upon arrival, the evacuees will undergo documentation and profiling procedures and will receive the appropriate assistance and support before being reunited with their families”, it added.
The evacuation follows growing concerns over attacks targeting foreign nationals in parts of South Africa, prompting calls for the protection of Nigerians living and working in the country.
The Federal Government has repeatedly stated its commitment to safeguarding the welfare of Nigerians abroad and has continued to engage South African authorities over the safety of its citizens.
renewed
…highlight major projects, Programme,Regional Development Plans Amid Funding Challenges
By Gloria Ikibah
The South East Development Commission (SEDC) has reiterated its commitment to transparency, accountability and regional development following an oversight session with the Senate Committee on South East Development Commission at the National Assembly.
The interactive session, chaired by the Committee Chairman, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, formed part of the National Assembly’s constitutional responsibility to oversee the activities of government agencies.
During the engagement, the Commission presented a detailed report of its activities since the inauguration of its Board in February 2025, covering its financial performance, institutional development, procurement processes, staffing, partnerships and ongoing programmes across the South-East.
The Commission also briefed lawmakers on its engagements with state governments, federal institutions, development finance organisations and other stakeholders involved in driving development across the region.
As part of its review, the Senate Committee requested additional documentation relating to certain aspects of the Commission’s operations and programme implementation.
Responding to the request, the Commission welcomed the move and sought a short extension to collate and submit the required materials.
Following discussions, the Committee adjourned proceedings to a later date pending receipt of the requested submissions, which the Commission is expected to provide on or before 23 June 2026.
SEDC used the opportunity to highlight progress recorded despite what it described as significant funding constraints.
According to the Commission, preparatory work has advanced on several major regional projects since the Board was inaugurated, including strategic infrastructure initiatives such as gas pipeline and railway projects designed to drive economic growth and regional integration.
The Commission also disclosed that it had established partnerships with a number of national and international institutions, including the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Afreximbank, Rural Electrification Agency, the Bank of Industry, Presidential Initiative on Compressed Natural Gas and Gas Aggregator Company of Nigeria.
It added that extensive consultations had been held with the governments of the five South-East states, federal ministries, development partners, academic institutions and private sector stakeholders to create a coordinated approach to regional development.
One of the major achievements highlighted during the session was the South East Vision 2050 stakeholder consultations, which brought together government officials, development experts, business leaders, academics and civil society groups to develop a long-term blueprint for the economic transformation of the region.
The Commission also spotlighted the successful rollout of the inaugural South East Venture Capital Programme (SEVCP), which it described as a flagship initiative aimed at promoting innovation, entrepreneurship and investment.
According to SEDC, 25 start-ups from across the South-East received equity investments through a transparent and competitive selection process under the programme.
The Commission said the initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and reflects efforts to strengthen entrepreneurship, private sector growth and investor confidence.
“Anchored within the South East Investment Company, the Programme represents a strategic effort to move beyond fragmented interventions towards a more structured and credible venture capital ecosystem for the South East, combining capital deployment with venture development, institutional partnerships, and pathways for attracting institutional capital into early-stage, high-growth enterprises across the region,” it stated.
However, the Commission expressed concern over the pace of funding releases, warning that implementation of critical projects could be affected if appropriated funds are not released promptly.
It disclosed that despite the Federal Government and National Assembly approving ₦140 billion for the Commission in the 2026 budget, less than 10 per cent of the allocation has so far been released.
The statement further read: “Of the N140 billion appropriated to the Commission in the 2026 budget, less than 10% has been released to date across all budget lines.”
SEDC stressed that accelerated releases are essential to enable the execution of key infrastructure, agricultural transformation, youth empowerment, economic development and regional security initiatives captured within its mandate.
“The scale of development required across the South East demands sustained funding, institutional coordination, and continued collaboration among all stakeholders,” the Commission noted.
Reaffirming its commitment to openness and accountability, the Commission pledged full cooperation with the National Assembly and all relevant oversight institutions.
“SEDC remains committed to full cooperation with the National Assembly and all relevant oversight institutions. The Commission views accountability, transparency, and constructive engagement as fundamental to the successful delivery of its mandate and will continue to provide all information required to support effective legislative oversight.
“The Commission remains focused on its responsibility to deliver meaningful and measurable impact for the people of the South East through disciplined planning, transparent governance, strategic partnerships, and the effective deployment of public resources. The Commission appreciates the continued support of the National Assembly and looks forward to sustained collaboration in advancing inclusive growth, shared prosperity, and long-term development across the region.”
CJN Kekere-Ekun seeks more women in Judiciary’s leadership positions
Nigeria Begins Evacuation of Citizens From South Africa Amid Xenophobic Attacks
SEDC Defends Record Before Senate, Says Less Than 10% of ₦140bn Budget Released
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