Politics
A Call for Recognition and Fairness: Plateau’s Heroes Deserve Their Due

By Pam Ayuba
After listening to President Ahmed Bola Tinubu’s Democracy Day speech, it is impossible to overlook a glaring and troubling omission: the failure to recognize Chief Solomon Lar’s pivotal role in Nigeria’s democratic journey. This omission not only diminishes the sacrifices of one of Nigeria’s most courageous democracy champions but also raises serious questions about the President’s regard for Plateau State and its people.
Chief Solomon Lar, a towering figure in Nigeria’s struggle for democracy, demonstrated unparalleled courage and patriotism. His daring act of delivering the historic letter to the tyrannical General Sani Abacha, risking his life for the freedom and democratic integrity of our nation, is a testament to his dedication.
This act not only cemented his place in Nigeria’s democratic history but also set a powerful example for future generations. How then, can President Tinubu, in a speech meant to celebrate our democratic milestones, overlook such a monumental contribution.
This omission raises serious questions about President Tinubu’s regard for Plateau State and its people.
Chief Solomon Lar was not just a national figure; he was a proud son of Plateau, a state that has continuously championed the cause of democracy in Nigeria. Ignoring his contributions is tantamount to dismissing the sacrifices and efforts of the Plateau people in our collective democratic journey.
Moreover, this oversight comes at a time when Plateau State is conspicuously absent from the federal executive council following the resignation of Senator Simon Lalong as Labour Minister. This exclusion is a violation of the principles of federal character as enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution. Section 14(3) of the Constitution states:
“The composition of the Government of the Federation or any of its agencies and the conduct of its affairs shall be carried out in such a manner as to reflect the federal character of Nigeria and the need to promote national unity, and also to command national loyalty, thereby ensuring that there shall be no predominance of persons from a few States or from a few ethnic or other sectional groups in that Government or in any of its agencies.”
By failing to include a representative from Plateau State in his cabinet, President Tinubu not only undermines this constitutional mandate but also sends a disheartening message to the people of Plateau: that their contributions and sacrifices are undervalued. Whatever is holding up the replacement of a federal minister after Senator Simon Lalong’s resignation to take up his Senate seat last year should be sorted out immediately. Plateau State must participate fully in President Tinubu’s government.
Plateau State has historically been a political magnet and ligament of Nigeria. The state has hosted numerous political party primaries, serving as a neutral ground where crucial decisions that shape the future of our country are made. From the days of independence, Plateau has been a steadfast contributor to Nigeria’s political landscape. The contributions of Plateau State are evident in its historical and ongoing role in fostering national unity and political discourse.
Does President Tinubu truly have the interest of Plateau State at heart? This is a question that every Plateau indigene must ponder.
The President’s actions—or lack thereof—suggest a disregard for the principles of equality and fairness that our democracy stands for. Plateau State deserves better recognition and representation, given its significant contributions to Nigeria’s democratic journey.
The journey towards democracy is paved with the sacrifices of many and the contributions of Plateau State cannot and should not be overlooked. It is time for President Tinubu to rectify these oversights and demonstrate his commitment to the principles of democracy, equality, and justice for all Nigerians. Plateau State remains a vital part of Nigeria’s democratic fabric, deserving of recognition and respect.
Pam Ayuba,
Journalist/Public Commentator,
Wrote from Jos, Plateau State.
National
APGA Urges Better Welfare, Conditions For Osun Workers

The Osun State Chapter of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) has expressed deep concern over the welfare of workers in the state, calling on the Osun State Government to prioritize the needs and aspirations of civil servants and public workers.
This was contained in a press statement issued on Thursday by the Chairman of the Party, Wole Adedoyin, and made available to newsmen in Osogbo.
According to the statement, APGA recognizes and appreciates the indispensable role that Osun workers play in the administration and development of the state. Without the hard work, loyalty, and sacrifice of civil servants, governance would grind to a halt, and public service delivery would be severely impaired.
The party noted that while workers across the country face similar challenges, the plight of Osun workers demands special attention. Delayed salaries, pension arrears, poor working environments, and lack of adequate motivation have continued to diminish the morale of workers in the state.
“Osun workers deserve better,” Adedoyin said. “It is unacceptable that in 2025, workers still struggle with irregular salary payments, inadequate housing, and insufficient health coverage. This is a violation of their rights and a breach of trust between the government and its employees.”
APGA called on the state government to implement a comprehensive worker-friendly policy that includes prompt payment of salaries and pensions, professional training opportunities, and improved infrastructure in public offices. According to the party, a motivated workforce is the bedrock of any successful administration.
The party also urged the state government to engage directly with workers’ unions and associations to identify critical areas of need and to ensure a participatory approach to policy-making regarding labor and employment matters.
APGA used the opportunity to salute the resilience and patriotism of Osun workers, especially teachers, health professionals, law enforcement officers, and local government staff, who continue to discharge their duties in the face of adversity. “Your commitment to the state does not go unnoticed,” the statement read.
Wole Adedoyin reaffirmed APGA’s commitment to the protection of workers’ rights, stressing that the party’s philosophy—Be Your Brother and Sister’s Keeper—would remain its guiding principle in standing with the workforce of Osun State.
News
Akpoti-Uduaghan Is Guided By Patriotic Commitment – North Central Women

Call Mgbeke Comedian
North Central Women on Friday criticized Prof Mgbeke, dismissing her recent remarks about the representative of Kogi Central, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, as mad imaginings, deception and fantasy.
They also described the remarks of the All Progressives Congress (APC) South-South Organizing Secretary, Mr. Blessing Agbomhere, as banal and irrelevant.
“It is amazing that male politicians in Nigeria are resorting to dishonest tactics to fight women.”
The women in a statement in Abuja criticized the leadership of the Senate for placing Nigeria in a dilemma.
“The six-month suspension is raised in almost all the news media in the world.’’
They urged the senate leadership to save Nigeria from ignominy.
Specifically, the women praised Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan for not allowing anyone to make her an emotional client in the country.
They also applauded her for playing a major role in the national history of Nigeria.
The statement issued by the Chairperson of North Central Women Front (NCWF), Mrs. Mary Adamu emphasized Akpoti-Uduaghan’s unflagging commitment to improvement of Kogi Central Senatorial District.
The women scolded the spokesperson of Executive Watch Dog, Mr. Fidelis Ella for advertising his ignorance.
The women of repute and experience branded Dr Sandra Duru (Mgbeke), Ella and Agbomhere parrots and bootlickers of anti-democratic forces.
“Unstable people can destroy anybody for a political appointment, contract and petty cash.”
The women further dismissed allegations of malicious agenda, dirty game of propaganda and destruction.
They described the plot to dismantle Yoruba Government, destabilize the national structure and halt the country from moving forward as a foolish talk.
“Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan is guided by patriotic commitment.’’
The women urged sympathizers of the Senate President and a former ministerial nominee not to lead Nigeria to confusion.
The statement denounced intolerance, lies, perversion of truth and crazy ideas.
Politics
Umo Eno: Political Parties In Nigeria Lack Ideology

Umo Eno, governor of Akwa Ibom, says political parties should not be the reason for division among people.
Speaking on Comfort 95.1 FM in Uyo on Wednesday, Eno said it is time Nigerians moved past partisan conflicts.
“Why can’t we be peaceful? Why must political parties separate us? Why must we have issues because my brother is in one party? No, we are all Akwa Ibomites first,” he said.
The governor described political parties as mere vehicles to attain power, saying governance should be inclusive once the mandate is secured.
“I see party as a vehicle to get to power — and when you get there, please begin to govern. Govern everyone, relate with everyone,” he said.
Eno lamented what he called the growing culture of misinterpretation, citing a recent controversy about his comments on Ibom Air.
“I know every day, now, I say something, people go to town and misinterpret it. Yesterday, I made an analogy and they say, ‘Oh, the man is demarketing Ibom Air’. That’s far from it. Ibom Air is the best airline,” he said.
“I’m saying that much as I love Ibom Air — it is our airline, it’s a preferred airline. Much as I love it and have it as a state government, if I arrive at the airport and Ibom Air has a technical fault — which is possible — and I have an appointment in Abuja or Lagos, maybe to deliver a talk or meet investors, and there’s an alternative airline… will I not go?
“Will I say, because this is my airline and it is owned by the state government? So when people say, ‘Oh, he was demarketing Ibom Air…’ No! It’s an analogy. Come on, people know better than this.”
Eno reiterated his position that Akwa Ibom people must remain united regardless of party affiliations.
“For me, what I’m saying is that Akwa Ibom is one, political parties are vehicles,” he said.
He said Nigerian politics lacks defined ideological boundaries, unlike in developed democracies.
“I’ve asked the question, and I want you to tell me: What’s the political ideology of this party and that party in this country?” he asked.
“We’re not like the Americans who say, ‘This is the ideology of the Democrats and this is the ideology of the Republicans.’ Everybody keeps going and coming, keeps going and coming.”
Eno said his message was one of unity and maturity, regardless of the platform anyone belongs to.
“Whatever thing I’m doing, I’m saying let us be one. Whether it is any party, any party platform,” he said.
“You have finished the election. We are now in governance. You are sworn into office to be a governor for Akwa Ibom.”
On Tuesday, Eno hinted at a possible defection ahead of the 2027 general election.
He likened the PDP to a faulty aircraft, adding that the party is now fragmented and risks grinding to a halt before the 2027 elections.
In response, Felix Morka, national publicity secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC) said the ruling party welcomes the governor’s remarks and agrees with his assessment of the PDP.
“We couldn’t agree more that Plane PDP has become demonstrably inoperable and unsafe for travel,” the APC spokesperson said in a statement.
“We assure Governor Eno that a flight with us will be a mighty good ride to remember.”