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Atiku , el-Rufai’s Coalition Lacks Credibility, Says Group

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The Democracy Watch Initiative (DWI) has criticised the recently formed opposition coalition led by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Kaduna State Governor Nasir el-Rufai, arguing that they are not the solution to Nigeria’s political and economic challenges.

In a statement signed by its Director of Strategic Communication, Dr AbdulRazak Ahmed, the pro-democracy group dismissed the coalition’s efforts to unseat President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as a desperate attempt by failed politicians to regain power.

“Their track record is marred by complicity in decisions that have led to the current state of despair in Nigeria,” Ahmed stated.

“Atiku, el-Rufai, and their coalition are not the answer to our problems; they are part of the system that has failed us time and again.”

The coalition, which was announced during a press conference in Abuja, has brought together several opposition politicians, including former members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) who have defected in recent months.

However, the DWI argues that these figures lack the competence and moral authority to lead the country.

The group accused them of failing Nigerians in the past and attempting to rebrand themselves as defenders of democracy.

“Their attempts to repackage themselves as guardians of democracy are nothing more than a thinly veiled ruse aimed at distracting the public from their past failures and the damage they have inflicted on our nation,” the statement read.

The group further criticised Atiku’s political alliances, claiming that his coalition comprises “disgruntled and irrelevant political figures” with no real vision for Nigeria’s future.

It named former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Babachir Lawal, as one of the prominent figures in what it described as a “shameful display of political theatre.”

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“Nigerians are not fooled by their antics. We have witnessed their governance failures, their silence in the face of violence and displacement in the North-West, and their complicity in policies that have exacerbated our economic woes,” the DWI said.

The organisation urged Nigerians to reject the coalition and focus on seeking new leadership that prioritises the welfare of the people over personal ambition.

“It is time for new leadership—one that is genuinely committed to the principles of democracy, accountability, and the welfare of the Nigerian people,” Ahmed added.

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PETROAN lauds NNPC for running Port-Harcourt refinery 180 days non-stop

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The Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN), has commended the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.), for successfully running the revamped Port Harcourt Refinery for 180 days non-stop

National Public Relations Officer, PETROAN, Dr Joseph Obele, who gave the commendation in a statement on Tuesday, also commended the host communities for their cooperation and support during the rehabilitation of the refinery.

”The refinery has been dormant for over 20 years.

“It was commissioned in October 2024, and has been running continuously for 180 days, up to March 2025; it is a remarkable feat that underscores the effectiveness of the rehabilitation project.

“PETROAN is pleased to note that its members are currently loading Automotive Gas Oil (diesel) and Dual Purpose Kerosene (DPK) from the refinery, while NNPC Ltd. retail marketers are loading Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), called fuel.

“This development has not only ensured a steady supply of petroleum products but has also helped to eliminate the circulation of fake kerosene and diesel in the market.

“PETROAN wishes to extend special commendation to the Managing Director of the Port Harcourt Refining Company (PHRC), Mr Ibrahim Onoja, for his exceptional leadership, technical expertise and dedication to ensuring the successful operation of the refinery.

“PETROAN wishes to extend special appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for making funds available for the rehabilitation of the refinery,” he said.

He also commended the Federal Government and the management of NNPC Ltd. for their vision and commitment towards the revitalisation of the refining.

According to him, the association believes that the achievement will have a positive impact on the country’s energy security, economy and employment opportunities. (NAN)

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Over 300 Gets NDE Loan, Starter Packs Resettlement In Sokoto 

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Over 300 persons in Sokoto state will get loan and starter packs from the National Directorate of Employment (NDE) Renewed Hope Employment Initiative Lukman Abubakar has said.

Lukman, who is the acting Sokoto state Coordinator of NDE, made the disclosure Wednesday while reassuring that, the agency is committed to achieving it’s mandates.

Speaking on behalf of the Director General of NDE, Silas Agara, the acting state coordinator, Lukman said the Renewed Hope Initiative is designed to create employment opportunities, support establishment of small scale enterprises, promote agricultural productivity and improve rural infrastructure that will forster economic empowerment of communities.

While appreciating the Minister for Labour and Productivity, Maigari Dingyadi and the Director General of NDE, Silas Agara for their sustained dedication to the cause of NDE, Lukman noted that a total of 5537 nationwide will benefit from the resettled loans and starter pack gesture that will enable them establish their own businesses.

“”Today marks a significant milestone in our collective efforts to address unemployment and promote economic development. This initiative underscores our commitment to creating a brighter future for all, where everyone has access to meaningful work and opportunities for growth”, Agara submitted.

Earlier, the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammed Sa’ad Abubakar 111 represented by the Sarkin Fulani Aliyu warned beneficiaries against reselling whatever given to them, saying they should rather use them judiciously towards becoming self employed.

On her part, Mary Sunday from NDE headquarters Abuja who monitored the process in Sokoto said, they are committed to ensuring that beneficiaries become not only self reliant but meaningful employers of labour in the nearest future.

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In his advise, one of the resource persons, Samaila Isa Rikoto said you can only be valued by your services or product to make wealth.

Registering their appreciation on behalf of beneficiaries Muhammed Ibrahim and Maimuna said NDE is doing a great job to close the gap of unemployment.

 

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JUST IN: Justice Egwuatu Recuses Self From Natasha’s Case

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Justice Obiora Egwuatu of the Federal High Court Abuja has recused himself from the case filed by the Senator Representing Kogi Central District, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.

At the proceedings on Tuesday, Justice Egwuatu announced his decision to withdraw from the matter after the usual court appearances.

He cited the allegation of bias from the third defendant in the case, Senate President Godswilll Akpabio, as the major reason for his decision.

It was gathered that the Senate President had expressed a lack of confidence in the ability of the court to do justice on the matter, hence the reason for the development.

Justice Egwuatu further added that the case file will be returned to the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice John Tsoho, for reassignment to another judge.

Justice Egwuatu had earlier granted an ex-parte order, restraining the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions from conducting disciplinary proceedings against Akpoti-Uduaghan.

She had prayed that the court grant an order restraining the Senate and the ethics committee from “proceeding with the purported investigation” against her.

The female federal lawmaker was involved in a seat arrangement dispute with Akpabio. The lawmaker accused Akpabio of sexual harassment and abuse of office. Senate subsequently suspended her for six months for misconduct.

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