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NBA Condemns Omoyele Sowore for Courtroom Disruption in Abuja

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NBA Condemns Omoyele Sowore for Courtroom Disruption in Abuja

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has strongly condemned former presidential candidate and human rights activist Omoyele Sowore for disrupting proceedings at the Federal High Court, Abuja, on Tuesday.

Reports from Newsheadline reveal that tension erupted when Sowore clashed with Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Musibau Adetunbi while attempting to address journalists inside the courtroom. A video circulating online shows Adetunbi insisting that the courtroom was not a proper venue for a press briefing, while Sowore countered, saying, “You’re intimidating me and insulting my intelligence because you’re introducing yourself to me as a SAN. I also have my own SANs.”

In a statement issued Wednesday and signed by NBA President Afam Osigwe, the association emphasized that while courtrooms in a constitutional democracy are open to the public to ensure transparency, proceedings must be conducted with discipline, restraint, and respect for judicial authority.

The NBA noted that Sowore entered the courtroom with individuals carrying cameras and recording equipment, seemingly preparing for a press conference. He then moved into the inner bar, sat on a table, and addressed a range of national issues, despite his case not being scheduled for hearing and without the accompaniment of a legal practitioner.

“This conduct led to tension and a confrontation with Senior Advocate of Nigeria Musibau Adetunbi, SAN, who objected to the actions and insisted on maintaining courtroom decorum,” the statement said.

The NBA stressed that any behavior undermining the dignity of the court, intimidating legal practitioners, or disrupting proceedings is a grave affront to the rule of law. It also reaffirmed that while Nigerians have the right to attend court proceedings, this does not extend to converting courtrooms into platforms for press briefings or advocacy theatrics.

The association condemned Sowore’s actions, expressed solidarity with Adetunbi and other lawyers maintaining order, and urged court authorities to protect courtrooms as spaces for the disciplined administration of justice.

“The NBA will continue to defend the dignity of the legal profession and the sanctity of judicial proceedings,” the statement concluded.

FG Unveils ₦16trn Poverty Plan to Lift 50 Million Nigerians by 2030

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FG Unveils ₦16trn Poverty Plan to Lift 50 Million Nigerians by 2030

The Federal Government has unveiled an ambitious ₦16 trillion plan aimed at lifting 50 million Nigerians out of poverty by 2030, marking a major step toward addressing the country’s growing socio-economic challenges.

The initiative, anchored on the newly launched One Humanitarian, One Poverty Response System (OHOPRS), is designed to deliver a coordinated and data-driven approach to tackling multidimensional poverty.

Speaking at the launch in Abuja, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Bernard Doro, said the programme would be funded with ₦3.2 trillion annually over the next five years.

According to him, the system aims to unify fragmented interventions across ministries, departments, agencies, and development partners while focusing on real-time data and people-centred solutions.

“We have been managing poverty, not ending it. Nigeria does not lack interventions; it lacks systems,” he said, stressing the need for a coordinated national framework.

Doro explained that the initiative aligns with the directive of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who has set a target of lifting millions of Nigerians out of multidimensional poverty within the next five years.

On the funding structure, Finance Aide to the Minister, Matur Ngyang, disclosed that ₦1.5 trillion will come from the Federal Government, ₦800 billion from development partners, ₦600 billion from the private sector and impact investors, and ₦300 billion from climate and global funds.

He added that key contributors are expected to include global institutions such as the World Bank, European Union, and the United Nations, alongside bilateral donors and foundations.

Ngyang warned that without proper implementation, the initiative would remain only a policy document, stressing that the new financing structure is designed to ensure sustainability and measurable impact.

Also speaking, the Resident Representative of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Nigeria, Elsie Attafuah, described poverty in Nigeria as a humanitarian crisis requiring urgent and systemic intervention.

She noted that over 60 per cent of Nigerians live in poverty, with millions facing acute food insecurity, and called for integrated solutions that combine humanitarian aid, social protection, and economic inclusion.

“This is not just about spending more, but investing smarter to achieve measurable improvements in people’s lives,” she said.

The OHOPRS framework is expected to serve as a national backbone for poverty reduction, aligning stakeholders and creating sustainable pathways for millions of Nigerians to escape poverty.

‘Judicial Incompetence’: Isa Ayo Salami Questions Peter Obi’s 2023 Presidential Bid

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‘Judicial Incompetence’: Isa Ayo Salami Questions Peter Obi’s 2023 Presidential Bid

A former President of the Court of Appeal, Isa Ayo Salami, has questioned the legality of Peter Obi’s participation in the 2023 presidential election, attributing it to what he described as judicial incompetence.

Salami made the remarks in Ilorin during a courtesy visit and award event organised by the Wole Soyinka Centre for Investigative Journalism, led by its founder, Dapo Olorunyomi.

According to the retired jurist, lapses in the judiciary have resulted in questionable rulings, stressing that some judges lack the competence required for their roles.

“The inadequacy and incompetence of some judges are responsible for wrong verdicts,” he said.

Salami argued that Obi should not have been eligible to contest under the Labour Party, claiming the party had already submitted its membership list to the Independent National Electoral Commission before Obi defected from the Peoples Democratic Party.

“The Constitution does not recognise independent candidacy. How did he become a candidate if he was not a registered member?” he queried.

He raised similar concerns about Abba Yusuf, stating that the Kano State governor allegedly contested under the New Nigeria Peoples Party despite questions over his membership status.

Beyond individual cases, Salami criticised Nigeria’s judicial appointment process, alleging that some judges rise through the ranks not purely on merit but due to regional considerations and available vacancies.

“At times, even Supreme Court rulings can be surprising,” he noted, adding that some appointees lack the necessary legal background and experience.

He concluded that the system requires urgent reforms to ensure that only qualified and competent individuals occupy positions on the bench.

World TB Day: Oluremi Tinubu Leads Call for Funding, Early Detection as Nigeria Battles Rising Cases

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World TB Day: Oluremi Tinubu Leads Call for Funding, Early Detection as Nigeria Battles Rising Cases

Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has called for intensified national efforts to combat tuberculosis (TB), stressing the need for increased domestic funding, early detection, improved treatment access, and the elimination of stigma.

In her message marking this year’s World Tuberculosis Day on March 24, the First Lady said addressing these critical areas remains key to ending TB in Nigeria.

Despite being preventable and treatable, she noted that the disease continues to affect thousands of families nationwide, underscoring the urgency for sustained intervention and collaboration among stakeholders.

Highlighting the global theme, “Yes! We Can End TB,” Tinubu said it reflects the importance of strong leadership and collective action in accelerating progress toward eliminating the disease by 2030.

She acknowledged Nigeria’s progress in reducing new infections but warned that significant gaps remain, particularly in early diagnosis and access to quality care. According to her, stigma continues to discourage many patients from seeking timely treatment.

Meanwhile, state-level data reveal the scale of the challenge. In Plateau State, about 5,000 TB cases were recorded in 2025, a figure described by Health Commissioner Nicholas Ba’amlong as evidence of the persistent burden of the disease.

Similarly, Kaduna State reported 22,321 TB cases in 2025, up from 21,557 in 2022. The state’s Permanent Secretary for Health, Aishatu Abubakar-Sadiq, disclosed that all detected cases were placed on treatment, with a 98.7 per cent success rate.

Kaduna has also expanded diagnostic capacity through mobile screening units and modern tools such as GeneXpert machines, significantly improving access to testing, especially in hard-to-reach areas.

In Lagos State, authorities intensified awareness campaigns with a public walk and symposium aimed at curbing the spread of TB. The state records about 24,000 cases annually, with thousands still undiagnosed.

Speaking at the event, the wife of the Lagos State Governor, Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, called for innovative strategies and grassroots sensitisation, warning that incomplete treatment could lead to drug-resistant TB.

Also, the Commissioner for Health, Akin Abayomi, described tuberculosis as a major public health concern due to its airborne nature and Lagos’ dense population.

Health experts at the event stressed that symptoms such as persistent cough, fever, weight loss, and night sweats should prompt immediate medical attention, noting that testing and treatment remain free in many public facilities.

Tinubu reiterated that increased domestic financing would reduce reliance on donor support and strengthen Nigeria’s response to the epidemic.

“With sustained political will, community engagement, and shared responsibility, we can end TB by 2030,” she said.

She urged Nigerians to utilise available health services, support affected individuals, and join the nationwide effort to eliminate tuberculosis.

NURTW Power Struggle Deepens as MC Oluomo Reclaims Abuja Secretariat from Rival Faction

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NURTW Power Struggle Deepens as MC Oluomo Reclaims Abuja Secretariat from Rival Faction

The leadership crisis rocking the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) escalated on Tuesday as its National President, Musiliu Akinsanya, reclaimed control of the union’s national secretariat in Abuja following a brief occupation by a rival faction.

Akinsanya, widely known as MC Oluomo, visited the secretariat shortly after regaining access to assess the extent of damage allegedly inflicted during the takeover.

The development came barely 24 hours after a faction led by Tajudeen Baruwa stormed the facility, citing court judgments it claimed validated its authority over the union.

Addressing journalists on Monday, Baruwa defended the move, insisting it was a lawful enforcement of court orders rather than a hostile takeover.

“Our actions are backed by valid court rulings. We are not here to cause trouble but to reclaim what rightfully belongs to us,” he said, stressing that the process was peaceful.

Baruwa further revealed that his group had formally notified security agencies, submitting copies of the judgments to support their claim.

However, he expressed dissatisfaction with the response from law enforcement authorities.

He added that the faction had waited nearly two years for compliance with the rulings before deciding to occupy the office.

Despite the tension, Baruwa alleged that one of his members was attacked during the process and is currently receiving medical treatment, though he maintained that the situation remained under control and open to reconciliation.

In a swift reaction, Akinsanya described the incident as a “forceful takeover,” maintaining that the legal battle over the union’s leadership is still ongoing.

In a statement, he clarified that he was not a party to the judgment being cited by Baruwa and disclosed that an appeal had already been filed, accompanied by a stay of execution.

“The judgment has been appealed, and a stay of execution is in place. I have not engaged with Mr Baruwa or any individual, as the matter remains before the court,” he stated.

Akinsanya reaffirmed his position as the legitimate National President of the union and urged members to remain calm and law-abiding as the dispute continues.

Security agencies are said to be monitoring the situation to prevent any breakdown of law and order as the leadership tussle intensifies.

UK Returnee Dies in Lagos-Ibadan Expressway Crash While Heading to Abeokuta Wedding

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UK Returnee Dies in Lagos-Ibadan Expressway Crash While Heading to Abeokuta Wedding

A woman who had just returned from the United Kingdom to attend a wedding in Abeokuta, Ogun State, tragically lost her life in a road accident on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.

The Ogun State Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Agency (TRACE) confirmed the incident in a statement on Tuesday.

Spokesperson Babatunde Akinbiyi said the crash occurred around 6:00 p.m. on Monday at the Christopher University section of the expressway.

The victim was travelling in a white Toyota Camry with two other occupants when the vehicle collided with a moving truck. One female passenger died, while the other female and a male occupant sustained injuries and were rushed to Famobis Hospital and Redeemed Hospital for treatment. The deceased was deposited at the Redeemed Hospital morgue.

“According to eyewitness accounts, the Camry was driving at excessive speed before ramming into the truck,” Akinbiyi said. “TRACE commiserates with the families of the deceased and injured, and again reminds drivers to avoid speeding given its potentially fatal consequences.”

Preliminary investigations revealed that the two female passengers had recently returned from the UK for a wedding ceremony in Abeokuta.

This tragedy comes just three months after boxer Anthony Joshua and an associate were involved in a similar crash along the same stretch of the expressway, highlighting ongoing concerns over road safety in the area.

FG Sets Strict Governance Rules for PenCom Board as Pension Assets Hit N28 Trillion

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FG Sets Strict Governance Rules for PenCom Board as Pension Assets Hit N28 Trillion

The Federal Government has issued a stern directive to the newly inaugurated board of the National Pension Commission (PenCom), warning that any governance lapses could undermine public confidence in over N28 trillion in pension assets belonging to millions of Nigerian workers and retirees.

At the Abuja inauguration, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) Senator George Akume emphasized the critical role of the board, urging members to safeguard pension funds, respect institutional boundaries, and keep politics out of operations.

Describing the assignment as one of “national importance,” Akume highlighted that PenCom sits at the heart of Nigeria’s financial system under the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS). He called for disciplined oversight, transparency, and strict adherence to the Pension Reform Act 2014.

“To maintain public trust, board members must focus on policy and oversight, leaving day-to-day management to the Commission’s executives,” Akume said. “Interference in operations will only weaken accountability and effectiveness.”

The caution comes as pension assets grow rapidly, now surpassing N28 trillion, making the sector a major pool of long-term capital in the Nigerian economy. The SGF stressed that the board must tighten internal controls, strengthen risk management frameworks, and ensure every action reinforces contributor confidence.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, he added, remains committed to retirees, with ongoing efforts to clear outstanding liabilities and guarantee timely, dignified benefits.

Responding, PenCom Board Chairman Agbaje Olukayode pledged to uphold strong corporate governance, protect pension assets, and explore opportunities to channel long-term funds into national development, including infrastructure and housing.

Director-General of PenCom, Omolola Oloworaran, described the board’s inauguration as a turning point, restoring governance oversight and institutional balance, while reaffirming a cooperative approach to deliver real value to contributors and retirees.

El-Rufai Arrives Kaduna Court for Arraignment Over Alleged Money Laundering

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El-Rufai Arrives Kaduna Court for Arraignment Over Alleged Money Laundering

Former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, has arrived at the Federal High Court Kaduna for his arraignment over alleged corruption and financial crimes.

The former governor is being prosecuted by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), which had earlier confirmed that the court proceedings would take place on Tuesday, March 24, 2026.

According to the charge sheet filed under suit number FHC/KD/73/2026, El-Rufai faces multiple counts, including alleged money laundering, conversion and unlawful possession of public property.

Other charges brought against him include abuse of office, fraud, intent to commit fraud, and conferring undue advantage.

The arraignment marks a significant development in the legal proceedings involving the former governor, drawing public attention to the high-profile case as it unfolds in Kaduna.

APC Convention Key to Party’s Future, Says Aderonke Amid Rising Expectations

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APC Convention Key to Party’s Future, Says Aderonke Amid Rising Expectations

A member of the Media and Publicity Committee for the All Progressives Congress (APC) national convention, Arabinrin Aderonke, has described her appointment as both an honour and a call to duty, emphasising the critical role of the convention in shaping the party’s future.

In a statement titled “Unity, Structure and Strategy: Inside the Significance of APC National Convention,” Aderonke said the gathering goes beyond a routine internal meeting, describing it as a pivotal institutional process that will define the party’s direction.

According to her, the convention represents the highest decision-making platform of the party, where key members of the National Working Committee (NWC) and National Executive Committee (NEC) will be elected through a structured democratic process.

She explained that the exercise also provides an avenue for setting the party’s political agenda, including frameworks for zoning and power distribution across geopolitical zones.

The convention is scheduled to hold at the iconic Eagle Square, a venue synonymous with major political events in Nigeria.

Aderonke noted that the convention is the culmination of a series of consultations that began at the grassroots level, progressing from ward meetings to local government, state, and zonal engagements.

Reflecting on the party’s evolution, she recalled that the upcoming gathering would be the fourth major convention since the APC’s formation, following previous editions in 2014, 2018, and 2022, which helped strengthen internal structures and facilitate leadership transitions.

She further highlighted the party’s evolving leadership dynamics, noting that reforms at the national level have often been driven by the need for stability and repositioning.

Describing the APC as Nigeria’s largest political party, Aderonke said its expanding membership base presents both opportunities and challenges, particularly in maintaining unity within its diverse structure.

The party has already confirmed it will retain its existing zoning arrangement for NWC positions, a move announced by APC National Publicity Secretary Felix Morka to ensure balance and equity across regions.

At the centre of the party’s strategy remains President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who Aderonke described as the party’s sole presidential candidate, reflecting a deliberate effort to maintain cohesion and focus.

She added that anticipation is building ahead of the convention, with expectations that it will strengthen internal unity, energise party members, and set the tone for the APC’s next political phase.

Makinde Insists Oyo PDP Congress Stands, Rules Out Defection Ahead of 2027 Elections

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Makinde Insists Oyo PDP Congress Stands, Rules Out Defection Ahead of 2027 Elections

Governor Seyi Makinde has declared that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) elective congress held in Oyo State in November last year remains valid “no matter what,” amid ongoing internal disputes within the party.

Makinde made the assertion on Monday during a high-level stakeholders’ meeting held at the Oyo State Local Government Service Commission in Ibadan, where party leaders and loyalists gathered to chart a path forward ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The governor’s remarks come against the backdrop of a lingering crisis within the PDP, triggered by controversies surrounding its 2025 national convention in Ibadan. The dispute, which involved legal battles and factional disagreements, has seen divisions among party stakeholders, including loyalists of Nyesom Wike.

Despite the turbulence at the national level, Makinde maintained that the party in Oyo State remains focused and determined, stressing that securing the PDP’s place on the ballot in 2027 is “sacrosanct.”

He described the party’s current situation as involving “two extremes”—a “war” among aspirants vying for elective positions and a “battle” to ensure the party’s eligibility to participate in the elections.

Addressing speculation about a possible defection, the governor dismissed such claims, reaffirming his loyalty to the PDP.

“We’re comfortable in our PDP,” he said, assuring supporters that he and his political camp would contest the next elections under the party’s platform.

Makinde also revealed plans to adopt a consensus approach in selecting candidates, noting that the strategy would help preserve unity and minimise internal conflict.

In a move seen as rewarding loyalty, he disclosed that all first-term lawmakers at both the National Assembly and State Assembly levels would be returned unopposed.

The meeting, which lasted nearly two hours behind closed doors, focused on assessing both national political developments and the PDP’s internal challenges, as well as strategies for strengthening the party’s structure in Oyo State.

Makinde urged stakeholders to prioritise unity and engage widely with constituents across local governments and senatorial districts to build consensus ahead of the elections.

Acknowledging the party’s internal crises, including court cases and leadership disputes, the governor expressed confidence that the PDP would overcome its challenges through dialogue and cooperation.

He emphasised that unity and strategic coordination remain critical for the party’s success as it prepares for the 2027 electoral contest.

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