A coalition, the Centre for Democracy and Development, has condemned the alleged anti-democratic actions of Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, and his administration’s lawlessness against members of the House of Assembly.

The group, in a press conference held in Abuja, called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to declare a state of emergency in Zamfara State for a minimum of six months.

According to its convener, Ibrahim Yakubu, Governor Lawal’s actions have plunged the state into economic sabotage, anarchy, and instability.

The group cited the suspension of 10 members of the Zamfara State House of Assembly for 13 months, simply for expressing concerns about the state’s security situation.

This, the coalition argued, has crippled the legislative chamber and denied the people of Zamfara effective representation.

The coalition also accused Governor Lawal of authoritarianism, citing his directive to suspend eight members of the House who raised concerns about the worsening security crisis. The group described this as a clear abuse of power and an attack on democracy.

Furthermore, the coalition condemned Governor Lawal’s alleged complicity in illegal mining activities in the state, which has led to the exploitation of Zamfara’s gold reserves.

“In light of these hideous violations, It is time for President Bola Tinubu to take action before it is too late. A state of emergency must be declared in Zamfara now,” the statement added.

“A six-month emergency period is necessary to restore order, dismantle the networks of political and economic terrorists, and pave the way for a return to democratic governance.

“This is not a call made lightly; it is a demand born out of necessity, as the current trajectory threatens not only Zamfara but the entire nation. The good people of Zamfara deserve leadership that upholds the rule of law, prioritizes security, and safeguards national resources.

“Additionally, We implore Mr. President to use every resource and tool at his disposal to handle the crisis in Zamfara.

“The federal government must take swift action in order to secure the state resources, defend people’s lives and livelihoods, and hold those culpable for the current situation accountable. The time for Half-measures and false promises are no longer an option; strong, quick action is now required.

“It is evident that Governor Dauda Lawal’s tenure has been an unmitigated disaster, a relentless assault on democracy, a blatant disregard for the rule of law, and a shocking indifference to the suffering of the people he was elected to serve.

“He has desecrated democratic institutions, fostered political terrorism, refused to tackle insecurity, and enabled the looting of Zamfara’s wealth. No doubt, he has failed in his responsibilities, and he can no longer remain in office. Nigeria deserves better.”

The Concerned Christian Youth Forum s believe that the Christian faith and its leaders should be respected and protected against defamation and cyberbullying,” following the apology tenders by Apostle Festus Alilu to
Pastor Korede Komaiya Over Viral Video.

The cleric has issued a formal public apology to Pastor Korede Komaiya and the Master’s International Church in Warri, Delta State.

In a statement on Monday, the convener of the forum, James Paul Adama, confirmed the development, describing it as a positive step towards reconciliation.

Apology and Resolution

Apostle Alilu, in his letter of apology, expressed regret over a viral video he had posted on Facebook on 8 March 2025, in which he criticised Pastor Komaiya’s preaching style.

“I write to express my sincere and unreserved apologies for a viral video I posted on my Facebook page… where I criticised your style of preaching. I regret the offensive content of the video and the negative effect it had on your reputation and the entire body of Christ,” he stated.

The cleric confirmed that he had deleted the video from his Facebook page and had also uploaded an apology video.

“I humbly request your forgiveness and understanding so we can put this behind us and focus on our shared commitment to spreading the Gospel,” he added.

Reacting to the development, Adama commended the reconciliation effort and urged others to adopt similar approaches in resolving conflicts.

“We believe that the Christian faith and its leaders should be respected and protected against defamation and cyberbullying,” he said.

He emphasised the importance of responsible communication, cautioning against defamatory statements.

“Criticism should be constructive and done within the confines of the law. Criminal offences are not just against individuals but against the state as well. Let this apology serve as a reminder that differences of opinion do not justify hateful speech or malicious behaviour,” he added.

Adama further stated that the matter had been withdrawn, and he expressed gratitude to all parties involved for achieving a peaceful resolution.

A dramatic moment unfolded at a healing service led by Pastor Daysman Oyakhilome, son of renowned Pastor and founder of Christ Embassy, Chris Oyakhilome, as a member of Nigeria’s House of Representatives, Hon. Marcus Onobun, from Edo State, who had been unable to walk for some time, regained his legs and walked unaided.

The incident, which was captured on a video, has since gone viral, sparking widespread reactions across social media. In the footage, the former speaker of Edo State House of Assembly stands and walks with apparent ease, leaving onlookers astonished.

While many hailed the event as a miraculous divine healing, others remained skeptical, questioning its authenticity.

A social media user, @SamsonUgochuks, reacting to the video in Pidgin English, tweeted, “This video just dey trend everywhere, before you know dem go say na arranged. This is a Member of House of Rep o; he no dey hungry ooooo.”

Another user, @James__Ade, responded in defence of the miracle, writing: “CHURCH HATERS go cry tire for comment… Miracles are real, I BELIEVE IN MIRACLES, and Pastor Daysman Oyakhilome is genuinely heavy anointed as well.”