News
Akpabio Vindicated Over Ogban Electoral Fraud Conviction, CSO
The National Youth Council of Nigerian (NYCN) says emerging facts have vindicated Senator Godswill Akpabio, the President of the Senate in the conviction of Professor Peter Ogban for electoral fraud.
Prof. Peter Ogban, a University Professor who served as the returning officer for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in the February 23, 2019 Senatorial election in Akwa Ibom State was convicted of electoral fraud, having been found guilty of falsifying election results and illegally declaaring Senator Chris Ekpeyong as the winner of Akwa Ibom North-West Senatorial district.
But in a stark disregard of the facts on ground, a few Nigerians including learned persons and even some media outlets have adopted a different version of what transpired in the courts, insinuating that the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio is beneficiary of the electoral fraud committed by Prof. Peter Ogban.
The NYCN in a statement signed it’s President Amb. Solomon Adodo on behalf of other youth groups
frowned at those deliberately twisting the facts in a bid to mislead Nigerians and vowed to continue exposing falsehood wherever it is found in and around the corridors of power.
“The recent controversy surrounding the conviction of Professor Peter Ogban and the deliberate attempt to link his criminal record with the impeccable personality of Senate Godswill Akpabio, the President of the Nigerian Senate is one of the dangerous manifestations of falsehood deliberately targeted at the character and personality of an innocent man.
“Senator Godswill Akpabio, a man who has served the country meritoriously, first as a two term Governor, Minister, a ranking Senator and now the Senate President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria has been singled out for this systemic misinformation, falsehood and blackmail.
“We have decided to intervene because an African proverb says, when you see your neighbours beards on fire, start pouring water on your beard. If nothing is done to checkmate this fraud, in no distant time, all public office holders, government appointees and other highly placed citizens will become victims of this new and demonic enterprise.
“To put the records straight, the 2019 Akwa Ibom North-West Senatorial elections were held on February 23, 2019. The contest was between Senator Godswill Akpabio of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Senator Chris Ekpeyong of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
“Prof. Peter Ogban, a Returning Officer appointed by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declared and announced Senator Chris Ekpeyong as the winner of that election and not Godswill Akpabio as many would want the public to believe that Akpabio benefited from any fraudulent acts committed by Ogban.
“Indeed, there are verifiable facts that the election was4 manipulated against Senator Godswill Akpabio. For instance, Prof. Ogban unlawfully cancelled 61,329 votes from Akpabio’s stronghold (Essien Udim LGA), effectively tilting the result in Ekpeyong’s favour. Similarly, evidence presented in court showed that Ogban falsified figures to favour the PDP candidate.
“It was at the Appeal Court that Akpabio regained his mandate after the Court ordered for a rerun in the affected Local Government Area. How then, can any right thinking individual conclude that Ogban rigged the election in favour of Akpabio?
“It is also in the public domain that, in March 2021, a High Court in Akwa Ibom convicted Professor Peter Ogban for electoral fraud and falsification of results. The court found that he manipulated results to favour the candidate of PDP, Senator Chris Ekpeyong and not Senator Godswill Akpabio of the APC. The Appeal Court upheld this conviction, reinforcing that Ogban’s actions were against Akpabio’s interest.
“It is therefore, a dangerous enterprise for anybody to willfully distort very obvious facts like these just because they want to score cheap political points. To even think that very highly placed Nigerians believed this twisted falsehood and even propagated it on notable media channels is disheartening.
“As Nigerians, the exposition of this deviously orchestrated misinformation charade should awaken us to be more critical of whatever we see in the media especially against persons with distinguished track records”, the text stated.
NYCN, on behalf of other youth groups lauded the cordial relationship between the Executive and Legislature which they described as cordial, passing a vote of confidence in the Senate President and urging him to continue with the good work he is doing as Nigerian youths are ready to partner and collaborate with him in any area of need.
“As Nigerian youths, we applaud the collaborative relationship between the President and Senate which has angered a few crisis entrepreneurs who thrive when there are conflicts. We have resolved more than ever to continue exposing these fraudsters and anti patroitic elements whose antics are inimical to the progress of our dear nation.
“We urge Senate President to remain steadfast and committed in his duties. As a youth group, we shall continue to give him the needed support to carry out his duties. Our doors are open to partner and collaborate with the Nigerian Senatee even as well pass a massive vote of confidence in his administration”, the text concluded.
News
HON. JA’AFARU YAKUBU HONOURED WITH DOUBLE TRADITIONAL TITLES OF CHIROMAN GASSOL AND MARAFAN BAKUNDI BALI
The Member representing Bali/Gassol Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Ja’afaru Chiroma Yakubu (ADC), has been conferred with two prestigious traditional titles — Chiroman Gassol and Marafan Bakundi Bali — in recognition of his exemplary leadership, commitment to public service, and immense contributions to community development.
The traditional honours were officially bestowed on the federal lawmaker by the revered traditional ruler of Bakundi Chiefdom, His Royal Highness, Alhaji Kabiru Muhammad Gidado Misa, the 10th Lamdo of Bakundi, during a colourful coronation ceremony attended by members of the royal family, community leaders, political associates, supporters, and well-wishers.
The conferment of the dual traditional titles has continued to attract widespread commendation from stakeholders across Taraba State and beyond, with many describing the recognition as a reflection of Hon. Ja’afaru Yakubu’s growing influence, grassroots connection, and unwavering dedication to the wellbeing of his people.
In a congratulatory message issued by his Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Comrade Bashir Umar Dali, the lawmaker was described as a courageous, humble, and visionary leader whose commitment to humanity and community advancement has remained outstanding.
According to the statement, the titles Chiroman Gassol and Marafan Bakundi Bali are symbolic recognitions of the lawmaker’s selfless service, people-oriented representation, and tireless efforts towards promoting unity, peace, and sustainable development across Bali/Gassol Federal Constituency.
The statement further noted that Hon. Ja’afaru Yakubu has consistently distinguished himself through impactful representation, empowerment initiatives, and developmental interventions aimed at improving the lives of the people.
“Your commitment and selfless contributions to the growth and progress of the people continue to inspire many across Bali/Gassol Federal Constituency and beyond,” the statement read.
Comrade Bashir Umar Dali also prayed for greater wisdom, strength, honour, and divine guidance for the federal lawmaker as he continues to shoulder greater traditional and leadership responsibilities in service to the people.
Observers have described the conferment of the two traditional titles as a major endorsement of Hon. Ja’afaru Yakubu’s leadership credentials and his increasing relevance in the socio-political and traditional landscape of Taraba State.
The titles Chiroman Gassol and Marafan Bakundi Bali are regarded as highly respected honours within the traditional institution, reserved for individuals who have demonstrated exceptional character, loyalty, service, and commitment to the development and unity of their communities.
News
EID-EL-KABIR: BELLO BABAYO BELLO COMMENDS TINUBU, SHETTIMA, GOMBE GOVERNOR AS HE FELICITATES WITH MUSLIMS NATIONWIDE
The Executive Director, Networks, Niger Delta Power Holding Company Limited (NDPHC), Engr. Bello Babayo Bello, FNSE, has extended warm felicitations to Muslim faithful across Nigeria, particularly the people of Gombe State, on the occasion of the 2026 Eid-el-Kabir celebration, urging citizens to continue promoting peace, unity, love, and national development.
In a goodwill message released to journalists on the occasion of the Islamic festival, Engr. Bello described Eid-el-Kabir as a sacred celebration that reflects the virtues of sacrifice, obedience, faith, compassion, and gratitude to Almighty Allah as demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim (AS).
He called on Muslims to use the spiritual significance of the season to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood, support one another, and continue praying for the peace, stability, and prosperity of Nigeria.
Engr. Bello also commended the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his commitment to national development, economic reforms, infrastructural advancement, and efforts aimed at strengthening unity and progress across the country.
According to him, the administration of President Tinubu has continued to demonstrate determination in laying foundations for long-term growth and national transformation through bold policies and strategic governance initiatives.
The NDPHC Executive Director equally praised Vice President Kashim Shettima, GCON, for his loyalty, dedication, and support toward the actualization of the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Federal Government.
He noted that the Vice President has continued to play a vital role in promoting stability, inclusion, and effective coordination within government.
Engr. Bello further applauded the Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, for what he described as purposeful leadership and remarkable strides in infrastructural development, healthcare, education, youth empowerment, and peaceful coexistence in the state.
He said the governor’s developmental policies and inclusive style of governance have continued to attract admiration and confidence from the people of Gombe State and beyond.
“Eid-el-Kabir remains a season of reflection, gratitude, sacrifice, and devotion to Almighty Allah. It is also a period that reminds us of the importance of unity, compassion, tolerance, and service to humanity. As we celebrate, we must continue to pray for our leaders and for the continued peace, progress, and prosperity of our dear nation,” he stated.
Engr. Bello urged Muslim faithful to extend love and kindness to the less privileged, widows, orphans, and vulnerable members of society during the Sallah festivities, stressing that charity and generosity are central teachings of Islam.
He also commended the people of Gombe State for sustaining the culture of peaceful coexistence, harmony, and mutual respect among diverse communities.
The engineering professional and public administrator expressed optimism that Nigeria would continue to witness greater development, unity, and economic advancement under the leadership of President Tinubu.
He prayed for Allah’s continued guidance, wisdom, protection, and blessings upon the President, Vice President, Governor Inuwa Yahaya, and all leaders across the country.
Engr. Bello finally wished Muslim faithful in Gombe State and across Nigeria a peaceful, joyous, and spiritually fulfilling Eid-el-Kabir celebration.
News
Dogara Celebrates Eid El-Adha, Urges Nigerians to Embrace Unity, Sacrifice, and Compassion
Rt. Hon. Yakubu Dogara, former Speaker of the House of Representatives and Chairman of the Board of National Credit Guarantee Company Limited (NCGC), has extended heartfelt felicitations to Muslims across Nigeria and around the world on the occasion of Eid El-Adha.
In his Eid message, Dogara described the festival as one of the most profound moments in the Islamic faith — a sacred season that embodies the enduring virtues of sacrifice, obedience, faith, and total devotion to God, as demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim (AS). He noted that beyond its spiritual significance, Eid El-Adha serves as a powerful reminder of the values of compassion, generosity, and love for humanity.
According to him, the celebration offers an opportunity for reflection and renewal, urging Nigerians to recommit themselves to the ideals of unity, peace, and mutual understanding. He observed that the true essence of Eid lies not merely in celebration, but in the willingness to serve others selflessly and uplift the less privileged.
“Eid El-Adha reminds us that greatness is found in sacrifice, service, and compassion for one another. It is a season that calls us to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood, extend kindness to those in need, and renew hope for a better and more united nation,” Dogara stated.
The former Speaker stressed that the lessons of Eid should transcend religious and ethnic boundaries, especially at a time when Nigeria needs collective commitment to peace, justice, and national cohesion. He called on citizens to rise above division and work together in the spirit of patriotism and shared destiny.
“As we celebrate this sacred festival, may the spirit of sacrifice inspire us to build bridges of understanding, promote harmony across our communities, and work collectively for a more peaceful, just, and prosperous Nigeria,” he added.
Dogara further prayed that the blessings of Eid El-Adha would bring joy to families, healing to communities, and progress to the nation. He encouraged the faithful to use the occasion as a time for spiritual renewal, deeper devotion to God, stronger family ties, and renewed commitment to the common good.
“As families gather in prayer and celebration, may this Eid remind us of our shared humanity and our collective responsibility to serve with humility, love, and sincerity. May the Almighty accept our prayers and sacrifices, bless our homes with peace and happiness, and guide our nation toward greater unity and prosperity,” he concluded.
Dogara wished all Muslim faithful a peaceful and joyous Eid El-Adha celebration filled with divine blessings, love, hope, and renewed faith in the future of Nigeria.
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