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“Gods General” – President Tinubu has paid tribute to late Evangelist Uma Ukpai

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“Gods General” – President Tinubu has paid tribute to late Evangelist Uma Ukpai

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has paid tribute to the founder of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association and a pioneer of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, late Evangelist Uma Ukpai.

Tinubu described him as one of God’s generals whose ministry ignited revival across Nigeria and Africa.

The president’s condolence was contained in a statement issued from the State House on Monday.

In the titled, ‘President Tinubu’s tribute to the late evangelist Dr Uma Ukpai’, the president expressed deep sorrow over Ukpai’s passing.

The statement, “With a heavy heart, I mourn the passing of one of God’s generals, Dr Uma Ukpai. Reverend Ukpai was not just another preacher; he was an anointed crusader of the faith, filled with fire and ice for the gospel and restoring humanity to discipline, love, and good neighbourliness.

“Dr Ukpai, who died at age 80, was an international evangelist, leader of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association, and founder of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN).

“Born in the small town of Asaga, Ohafia, in Abia State, Evangelist Ukpai went through his paces, enduring challenges while passing through school. But God had his purpose well defined. He obeyed the divine call and impacted generations with his ministry.

“He was one of the leaders in the Lord’s army who brought the fervour of revival sweeping across Nigeria and parts of Africa in the 1980s. He was a firebrand.”

He recalled Ukpai’s landmark crusades ‘the Greater Ibadan for Christ in 1982 and the Greater Lagos for Christ in 1985’ which he said left lasting spiritual and social impacts.

The President lauded Ukpai’s legacy as a unifier and humanitarian who built schools, hospitals, and charities to serve the less privileged, noting that his ministry was dedicated to fostering peace and interfaith harmony.

Tinubu, “I recall his Greater Ibadan for Christ crusade in 1982 and the Greater Lagos for Christ crusade in 1985, two phenomenal events in proportion and impact. Dr Ukpai’s mission was clearly to unite the Christian fold and different faiths and spread peace and harmony. He was a builder, building men and bridges linking different faiths, people, tongues, and tribes.

“He was also a humanitarian as he set up many charities, schools, and hospitals for the underprivileged. Dr Ukpai has fulfilled his divine mission and has gone to be with the Lord. He fought the good fight, finished the race, and kept the faith.

“I pray that God Almighty grant him eternal rest. I commiserate with his family, especially his wife, Pastor Philomena Uma Ukpai, and his children, as well as members of his ministry. I encourage them to find solace in the great legacy of this beloved servant of God.”

Ukpai’s death was announced by his family in a statement on Monday.

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Wike says no judge will be living in a rented apartment by the end of the Tinubu’s first tenure

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Wike says no judge will be living in a rented apartment by the end of the Tinubu’s first tenure

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has said that President Bola Tinubu will ensure that no judge of the FCT will be living in a rented apartment by the end of the President’s first tenure.

The minister stated this on Monday during the flag-off of the design and construction of residences for the Heads of Courts of the FCT, adding that the era where judges stayed in rented quarters “will come to an end.”

“Let me also say what Mr President has done for the FCT. Before the first tenure of Mr President ends, no judge of the FCT will be living in a rented quarter.

“I said before the first tenure ends, no judge of the FCT High Court; I didn’t say Federal High Court, I didn’t say National Industrial Court, but of the FCT High Court, will be staying in a rented quarter,” he said.

The provision of houses to the heads of courts follows the flag-off of the construction of new magistrate courts in Jabi in September 2025, and the construction of 40 judges’ quarters in Katampe District, flagged off earlier in November 2024.

The minister has continued to insist that the provision of infrastructure for the judiciary did not amount to interference by the executive, noting that the Federal Capital Development Authority was responsible for the construction of public buildings in the FCT.

Speaking during the flag off on Monday, Wike clarified that the heads of courts, including the President of the Court of Appeal, the Chief Judges of the Federal and FCT High Courts, and the Judge of the National Industrial Court, will retire with the houses constructed for them.

He noted that the development was with the approval of the President, adding that the Seal of Oaths had been issued in the names of the individuals.

“Let me make it clear. What we are doing today is not just for the heads of courts, and when they retire, they go, no. As they retire, the properties become their own. And that is the approval of Mr President. And that is why we issued the seal of oaths in their names.

“So, all of you who are here now, don’t think that when they are leaving tomorrow, you will see in the pages of the newspaper, the Retired Chief Justice of the FCT has taken our house… Please, the policy of Mr President is that these heads of court, as they are retiring, must go home with their houses. And that is the true position,” the minister stated.

In his address, the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, said the provision of accommodation for heads of court will enhance, among others, institutional dignity of the judiciary, thereby enabling the discharge of their duties with focus and authority.

“The provision of secure and befitting accommodation for heads of cost will enhance operational independence, personal security, and institutional dignity, thereby enabling judicial officers to discharge their duties with great focus and authority.

“The issue of corruption will be reduced to the barest minimum because even if you accuse the judiciary of corruption, what are they going to use the money for? For accommodation? It’s already guaranteed,” he said.

Fagbemi also thanked President Bola Tinubu and the FCT Minister for the administration’s “clear prioritisation of institutional strengthening, judicial independence and infrastructural investment.”

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Lagos State Government has announced plans to begin full enforcement actions against individuals and organisations involved in illegal land reclamation

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Lagos State Government has announced plans to begin full enforcement actions against individuals and organisations involved in illegal land reclamation

The Lagos State Government has announced plans to begin full enforcement actions against individuals and organisations involved in illegal land reclamation and waterfront encroachment across the state.


This was contained in a statement signed and released by the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, on Monday.


According to the statement, the enforcement will commence on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, following the expiration of a seven-day ultimatum earlier issued through public notices published in The PUNCH and The Nation newspapers on September 18 and 19 respectively.


Wahab noted that the grace period for compliance and cessation of all illegal reclamation activities expired 5 September 25, 2025, adding that the government would now proceed with the strict implementation of environmental laws.


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“It has become imperative to notify the general public, particularly individuals, developers, and corporate bodies engaging in unauthorised land reclamation and waterfront encroachment, that the grace period of seven days for compliance and cessation of illegal reclamation activities has since expired,” the statement read.


The commissioner stated that, in line with the Lagos State Environmental Management and Protection Law 2017 and other extant regulations, the following measures would be implemented without further notice.


“Removal of all illegal reclamation structures and fillings without statutory Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and Drainage Clearance Certificates.

“Seizure of all reclamation equipment and materials found on prohibited sites.

“Prosecution of offenders in accordance with environmental and urban development laws of the state,” Wahab noted.


Wahab emphasised that the measures were necessary to protect the environment, prevent flooding, and ensure public safety.


He also warned residents against patronising or purchasing land from illegal reclamation operators to avoid falling victim to government sanctions.


“Enough is enough,” Wahab declared, reaffirming the government’s resolve to restore order and safeguard the state’s coastal and waterfront areas.


PUNCH Online had reported that the Lagos Government ordered the immediate suspension of all reclamation projects across the state, citing grave environmental and social risks posed by ongoing activities in wetlands, floodplains, and lagoon areas.


Tokunbo warned of strict enforcement measures against violators, including site decommissioning, prosecution, and the arrest of culprits. 

The commissioner said failure to comply with this directive within the next seven days after this publication shall leave the Ministry with no other option than to deploy appropriate machinery to decommission the reclaimed sites.

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Reactions as Renowned Nigerian evangelist, Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai, pass on to glory at the age of 80

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Reactions as Renowned Nigerian evangelist, Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai, pass on to glory at the age of 80

Renowned Nigerian evangelist and founder of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association (UUEA), Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai, has passed on to glory at the age of 80. 

The announcement was made on his official Instagram page, @Uma_Ukpai, on Monday, confirming that the revered preacher died on October 6, 2025. 

In the statement titled “With hearts full of gratitude, we celebrate the triumphant homegoing of Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai,” the family expressed their deep appreciation to God for his life of impact and service to humanity. 

The post read: “With hearts full of gratitude, we celebrate the triumphant homegoing of Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai, who passed on to glory on October 6, 2025, at the age of 80. A faithful soldier of the cross has been called to rest. 

“Dedicating over six decades of his life to fiery evangelism, dynamic teaching of the Word and prophetic demonstrations of the power of God, he impacted millions of lives and transformed destinies within Nigeria and across the globe. 

“He was a spiritual general known for evangelism, a founding father of faith, loving husband, devoted father and mentor to many, and his life was a testament to God’s power and love. 

“While we mourn his physical absence, we rejoice that he has finished his race and is now resting in eternal praise. Details of the obsequies will be announced in due course by the family. 

“We are grateful to God for his extraordinary life and enduring legacy. 

For indeed, ‘to live is Christ, and to die is gain.’ Phil 1:21.” 

Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai’s ministry was non-denominational in nature, and he led the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association, headquartered in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. 

Who is Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai?: Biography, Children, Wife, Ministry, Early Life, Preacher and Legacy

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Who is Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai?: Biography, Children, Wife, Ministry, Early Life, Preacher and Legacy

The Triumphant Life of Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai: A Spiritual General

Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai (born January 7, 1945, and passed away on October 6, 2025) was a Nigerian international evangelist, preacher, and Christian leader. He dedicated over sixty years of his life to ministry, becoming one of the most prominent and influential figures in the Nigerian Pentecostal movement.

His life was a remarkable narrative of overcoming hardship, marked by a fiery evangelistic call, a commitment to education, and a ministry known for its emphasis on miracles and prophetic demonstrations.

Early Life and Humble Beginnings

  • Birth and Origin: Uma Ukpai was born on January 7, 1945, in Asaga, Ohafia, Abia State, Nigeria. He was of Igbo descent.
  • Early Hardship: His life was defined by struggle from a tender age. His father passed away when Uma was only 10 years old. This tragedy forced him to start working to finance his own education, a challenge that later fueled his compassion for the poor. He once remarked that the “stone Satan throws at you can become a stepping stone.”
  • Conversion and Call: He converted to Christianity in 1958. His call to ministry was confirmed at a young age through a remarkable incident where, at around 10 years old, he commanded a mentally ill man (known as ‘The Mad Man, Deco’) to leave his school compound, leading to the man’s immediate healing—an event that launched his path into the deliverance ministry.

Education and Qualifications

Despite his financial challenges, Uma Ukpai pursued both secular and theological education, acquiring multiple degrees:

  • Nigerian Education: He attended Uma Ukpai Memorial Primary School, Khana County Council School, All Saints Secondary School, and Niger Delta Technical School (now Boys Technical College, Aba).
  • International Studies: He was educated at the School of Journalism and Television, Frisham, Hermitage, United Kingdom; South Florida Christian College, Miami, Florida, USA; Carolina Christian University; and Burke Bible College, Kentucky, USA.
  • Qualifications: He held a Certificate in Electrical Engineering Practice, a Diploma in Journalism, and multiple degrees, including Bachelor and Doctorate Degrees in Divinity.

Family and Personal Life

Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai found a lifelong partner in ministry and marriage.

  • Wife: He was married to Pastor Mrs. Philomena Uma Ukpai (née Awa), whom he met during the Nigerian Civil War. They married in 1975.
  • Children and Tragedy: Their marriage was blessed with children, though they experienced profound tragedy. The couple initially had eight children and an adopted child; however, they tragically lost two of their children in a single-day car accident. Uma Ukpai was praised for his resilience and faith, as he proceeded to preach at a crusade the day after the children’s burial.

Ministry and Career (Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association – UUEA)

Uma Ukpai is best known as a “spiritual general” whose ministry transcended denominational boundaries.

  • Founding UUEA: He founded and served as the President of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association (UUEA), a non-denominational gospel ministry headquartered in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
  • Mass Crusades: His crusades were famous for attracting hundreds of thousands of people across Nigeria and globally, characterized by “dynamic teaching of the Word and prophetic demonstrations of the power of God.”
  • Founding the PFN: His “Greater Lagos for Christ Crusade” of 1985 was a pivotal event that brought together various church leaders and ultimately paved the way for the establishment of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), a major Christian body in the country. He served as a National Vice President and a founding member of the PFN.

Legacy and Influence

Uma Ukpai’s influence spanned evangelism, healthcare, and education:

  • Educational Development: He was a strong advocate for education and skills acquisition, establishing:
    • Uma Ukpai School of Theology and Biblical Studies, Uyo.
    • Uma Ukpai Polytechnic, Asaga.
    • Uma Ukpai Scholarship Foundation.
  • Healthcare Initiatives: His humanitarian efforts included the establishment of healthcare facilities:
    • King of Kings Hospital (a specialist hospital in Abia State).
    • Uma Ukpai Eye Centre.
  • Global Recognition: He was an international speaker, co-authoring a book with Billy Graham and being the first African main speaker at the World Full Gospel Business Men’s Fellowship International (FGBMFI) World Convention in Miami, USA, in 1996.

Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai passed away on October 6, 2025, at the age of 80, having left behind a legacy of faith, perseverance, and a ministry that profoundly impacted Nigeria and the global body of Christ.

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Triumphant Homegoing: Top Things to Know About Late Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai

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Triumphant Homegoing: Top Things to Know About Late Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai

The Nigerian Christian community is celebrating the “triumphant homegoing” of Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai, the renowned evangelist and founder of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association (UUEA), who passed away on October 6, 2025, at the age of 80. His life was a remarkable testament to faith, characterized by over six decades of dynamic ministry that reached millions worldwide.

Top Things to Know About Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai

1. A Fiery Evangelist and Spiritual General

Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai dedicated over six decades of his life to ministry, earning him the title of a “spiritual general”within Christian circles. His ministry style was characterized by:

  • Fiery Evangelism: He was celebrated for his powerful, non-denominational preaching that often featured massive crusades and outreach programs across Nigeria and beyond.
  • Prophetic Demonstrations: His teachings emphasized the dynamic power of God, with his ministry often highlighting prophetic declarations and claims of miracles, signs, and wonders.

2. Founder of a Major Non-Denominational Ministry

He was the visionary leader and founder of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association (UUEA).

  • Non-Denominational Reach: The UUEA ministry was distinctively non-denominational, allowing it to impact and transform millions of lives and destinies across various denominations and geographical locations.
  • Headquarters: The association is headquartered in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, serving as the central base for his evangelistic operations.

3. An Enduring Legacy of Impact

The official announcement of his death described his life as one of extraordinary impact and service to humanity.

  • Founding Father of Faith: Within Nigeria’s Pentecostal movement, he is regarded as a “founding father of faith” and a mentor to countless younger ministers. His teachings and examples helped shape modern evangelism in the country.
  • Humanitarian Focus: Beyond the pulpit, his ministry often included charitable and humanitarian outreaches, reflecting his commitment to serving the people of Nigeria.

4. His Final Years and Announcement

Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai died peacefully at the age of 80, with his family expressing gratitude for his impactful life.

  • Date of Passing: He died on October 6, 2025.
  • Family Message: The family confirmed his “homegoing” via his official Instagram page, stating: “A faithful soldier of the cross has been called to rest.” They reassured followers that details of the obsequies would be announced soon.

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Breaking: Renowned evangelist, Uma Ukpai, dies at 80

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Breaking: Renowned evangelist, Uma Ukpai, dies at 80

Renowned Nigerian evangelist and founder of the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association (UUEA), Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai, has passed on to glory at the age of 80.

The announcement was made on his official Instagram page, @Uma_Ukpai, on Monday, confirming that the revered preacher died on October 6, 2025.

In the statement titled “With hearts full of gratitude, we celebrate the triumphant homegoing of Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai,” the family expressed their deep appreciation to God for his life of impact and service to humanity.

The post read: “With hearts full of gratitude, we celebrate the triumphant homegoing of Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai, who passed on to glory on October 6, 2025, at the age of 80. A faithful soldier of the cross has been called to rest.

“Dedicating over six decades of his life to fiery evangelism, dynamic teaching of the Word and prophetic demonstrations of the power of God, he impacted millions of lives and transformed destinies within Nigeria and across the globe.

“He was a spiritual general known for evangelism, a founding father of faith, loving husband, devoted father and mentor to many, and his life was a testament to God’s power and love.

“While we mourn his physical absence, we rejoice that he has finished his race and is now resting in eternal praise. Details of the obsequies will be announced in due course by the family.

“We are grateful to God for his extraordinary life and enduring legacy.

For indeed, ‘to live is Christ, and to die is gain.’ Phil 1:21.”

Rev. Dr. Uma Ukpai’s ministry was non-denominational in nature, and he led the Uma Ukpai Evangelistic Association, headquartered in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. ?

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“Violence has no place in football” – Ahmed Musa apologises after Kano Pillars fans attack Shooting Stars

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“Violence has no place in football” – Ahmed Musa apologises after Kano Pillars fans attack Shooting Stars

The General Manager of Kano Pillars Football Club, Ahmed Musa has issued an apology following the violent scenes that marred his team’s Nigeria Premier Football League fixture against Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) in Kano on Sunday evening.

The match, played at the Sani Abacha Stadium, ended in chaos after Shooting Stars grabbed a dramatic late equaliser, prompting sections of the home supporters to invade the pitch and assault visiting players, referees, and match officials.

Videos circulating online showed disturbing scenes of violence and panic.

In a letter, shared as a statement, which was released shortly after the incident on its social media handle late Sunday night, Ahmed Musa condemned the actions of the fans and took full responsibility on behalf of the club.

“I, Ahmed Musa, the General Manager of Kano Pillars Football Club, extend my deepest and most sincere apologies for the unfortunate, painful, and disgraceful incident that occurred during our game against Shooting Stars Sports Club on Sunday evening,” he began.

The former Super Eagles captain described the events as “heartbreaking, shameful, and completely unacceptable,” stressing that such conduct does not represent the ethos of the historic club.

“What transpired against Shooting Stars is heartbreaking, shameful, and completely unacceptable. It does not represent the true values, identity, or the proud history of Kano Pillars.

“This club has always stood for community, passion, and respect, values that must never be overshadowed by violence or indiscipline. As a club with deep roots and loyal supporters, we are expected to set an example of fairness and honour on and off the pitch. Sadly, today, we fell far short of that standard,” it further read.

Musa went on to apologise “to the players, coaches, officials, and supporters of Shooting Stars Sports Club, to the match referees and league officials who were caught in this terrible situation, to the Nigeria Premier Football League board and its partners at GTI, to the league organisers, and to every football fan across Nigeria and beyond who watched these scenes with anger, shock, and disappointment.”

“I know how painful it must have been to witness something so damaging to our game, and I am deeply, deeply sorry,” he stated.

Calling for calm and accountability, Musa reaffirmed the club’s commitment to punishing those responsible. 

“Violence has no place in football. It is unacceptable, unjustifiable, and goes against everything this beautiful sport stands for. Football is meant to unite, to inspire, to bring joy. When it turns into scenes of chaos and harm, we must not pretend it away, we must confront it head-on.

“I assure everyone that Kano Pillars FC will work closely with the relevant authorities to identify those responsible for this shameful act, and they will face the full consequences of their actions,” he assured.

He admitted that apologies alone would not suffice and promised meaningful action.

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Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Wale Edun, is recuperating in his Abuja home

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Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Wale Edun, is recuperating in his Abuja home

Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Wale Edun, is recuperating in his Abuja home after falling ill, and there are no plans by President Bola Tinubu to replace him.

Speaking with our correspondent, a senior official who preferred not to be named because he was not authorised to speak publicly, dismissed rumours that the minister suffered a stroke or had been flown abroad for treatment.

“Yes, he’s indisposed. He’s sick, which is a bit serious, but it’s not stroke,” the source said.

The source continued, “As I’m talking to you, he’s in his house. He has not been flown anywhere.

“Of course, he might seek medical attention elsewhere if the doctors say that is necessary. So, it’s not true that he has a stroke.

“He doesn’t have a stroke, which is why we put it in the statement that he is indisposed.”

Another official confirmed that Edun is receiving care by Nigerian doctors and may seek medical attention abroad if the need arises.

“He’s being attended to by Nigerian doctors.

“They’re still monitoring him. If he needs medical care outside Nigeria, he will go. But he’s still at home,” he said, adding, “There are no plans to replace him.“

Meanwhile, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said the Minister is receiving medical care in Nigeria.

“Yes, he’s indisposed. Wale Edun is about 69 years old. He suddenly fell ill.  As we are talking, he is in Nigeria. He is recuperating. He’s around,” Onanuga told our correspondent on Sunday evening.

The Presidency’s comments follows reports by The Whistler that President Tinubu was considering replacing the minister after reports of his ill health emerged late last week.

Earlier, the Presidency had confirmed that Edun would not be attending this year’s World Bank and International Monetary Fund Annual Meetings in Washington, D.C., stating that the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Olayemi Cardoso, would lead Nigeria’s delegation in his stead.

The meetings, which bring together finance ministers, central bankers, and economic experts from around the world, are scheduled to begin on Monday, October 14.

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Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has decried the cultural conditioning that teaches young women to endure shame and silence

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Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has decried the cultural conditioning that teaches young women to endure shame and silence

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has decried the cultural conditioning that teaches young women to endure shame and silence rather than confront injustice or assert their worth.

Speaking in Abuja at a mentorship and interactive session held to commemorate the 2025 International Day of the Girl Child on Sunday, the Kogi Central lawmaker said society must unlearn norms that encourage women to accept blame and suppress their voices.

“It’s important to identify the girl that I am. Many of us, especially girls, grow up without ever taking the time to understand or connect with who we truly are,” she said.

“Society defines and shapes us from childhood, and we’re rarely given the chance to think for ourselves. Before you figure out your career, your drive, or the change you want to make, you must first know who you are.”

Lamenting the deep-rooted expectations that limit women’s aspirations, the senator added, “Women have been raised to take the shame, wear the blame, and zip their mouths shut.

“But that ends with us. We must find the courage to be bold, audacious, and fearless, to break barriers and climb higher mountains.”

The event, tagged “An Evening with Senator Natasha” and themed after the global campaign “The Girl I Am, The Change I Lead: Girls on the Frontlines of Crisis,” brought together over 50 young women from across Nigeria for a session of open conversation, reflection, and empowerment.

Akpoti-Uduaghan said her mission goes beyond politics, noting that she would not feel fulfilled until her work leads to tangible transformation in communities that have long been deprived of opportunity. 

Among the guest speakers was anti-human trafficking advocate Yakubu Oyiza Hope, who shared her journey through abduction, banditry, and violence before rising to become a voice for victims.

Participants described the evening as “eye-opening and transformative,” urging the senator to institutionalise a formal mentorship programme to sustain the impact of the engagement.

The event, attended by journalists and media personalities, ended with a renewed call for women to embrace self-discovery, courage, and leadership in challenging societal norms.

Akpoti-Uduaghan returned to the Senate on October 7 following a six-month suspension that had stirred controversy over institutional authority, gender rights, and due process.

Her suspension, imposed on March 6, 2025, came after she protested the reassignment of her seat in the chamber—her nameplate removed—by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, an action she described as an attempt to “silence” her.

During the suspension, her salary, security, and allowances were withheld, her office was locked, and she was barred from Senate premises and all legislative activities.

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“Pardon granted 70 drug lords by President Tinubu is unprecedented in history” – Senator Dino Melaye

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“Pardon granted 70 drug lords by President Tinubu is unprecedented in history” – Senator Dino Melaye

Former Kogi West Senator, Barrister Dino Melaye, has strongly criticised President Bola Tinubu over the recent presidential pardon granted to drug offenders serving jail terms, saying such action has wasted the many years of efforts by the National Drug Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to curtail narcotics.

In a post on his verified Facebook page on Sunday evening, Melaye described the action as unprecedented and that itundermines Nigeria’s anti-narcotics campaign.

“Pardon granted 70 drug lords by President Tinubu is unprecedented in history. Checks have revealed that it has never happened in the history of the world,” Melaye wrote.

The former federal lawmaker argued that the decision sends the wrong signal to both local and international observers who have been following Nigeria’s fight against drug trafficking.

“My advice to the President is to scrap the NDLEA. His action has made a beautiful nonsensical of all the efforts of the agency since inception,” Melaye added.

Recall that President Tinubu’s exercise of the prerogative of mercy on Thursday covered 175 individuals, including 82 inmates who were granted full pardon, 65 whose sentences were commuted, and seven death-row convicts whose sentences were reduced to life imprisonment.

Melaye’s comment adds to a growing wave of public criticism questioning the inclusion of individuals convicted for serious offences, particularly murder and drug-related crimes, in the clemency list.

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Tinubu Administration Has Improved Security for Nigerians, Claims Presidential Aide Bwala

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Tinubu Administration Has Improved Security for Nigerians, Claims Presidential Aide Bwala

Daniel Bwala, the Special Adviser on Policy Communication to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has asserted that the security situation in Nigeria has demonstrably improved under the current administration.

Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, Bwala argued that the government’s reforms since May 2023 have made Nigerians “now safer than they were before 2023.”

Bwala, who has since transitioned from his role as spokesperson for the Atiku Abubakar Presidential Campaign Organisation to a position within the Tinubu government, pointed to a reduction in high-profile security failures as evidence of the turnaround.

  • He highlighted the near-elimination of mass prison breaks across the country, which were frequent before 2023, even in the capital, Abuja.
  • Bwala also claimed a significant drop in widespread kidnappings and terrorist attacks, noting that such severe incidents no longer represent the “order of the day.”
  • “Before 2023, there were prison breaks everywhere in Nigeria even here in Abuja. In broad daylight, people were being kidnapped before President Bola Tinubu came on board,” Bwala stated. “After he became president, we have not had prison breaks. People are going about their businesses all over the country.”
  • He acknowledged that minor security “skirmishes” still occur but insisted they no longer pose a threat to the nation’s overall stability, attributing the “relative calm” to President Tinubu’s leadership.

Dismissal of “Christian Genocide” Allegations

Bwala also used the interview to vehemently dismiss allegations of religious persecution in Nigeria, specifically addressing claims by some U.S. lawmakers regarding a supposed “Christian genocide.”

  • He labeled the allegations as “baseless and politically motivated,” arguing that no faith group is being targeted in the country.
  • Bwala claimed the controversial reports cited abroad were sourced from a local civil society group with alleged links to the proscribed separatist organization, the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
  • He stressed that the claims are “unfair to the country’s security agencies” who risk their lives to protect all citizens, regardless of religious affiliation.

The Presidential Adviser concluded by urging Nigerians to recognize the progress made under Tinubu’s tenure and to continue offering support for efforts aimed at solidifying peace and stability across the federation.

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