Category: Politics

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Kwara PDP Challenges Gov AbdulRazaq, Labour Unions Over “Lifeless” ₦70,000 Minimum Wage

Kwara PDP Challenges Gov AbdulRazaq, Labour Unions Over “Lifeless” ₦70,000 Minimum Wage

The Kwara State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has challenged labour unions in the state to demand a review of what it described as the “lifeless ₦70,000 minimum wage” currently paid to workers by the Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq-led administration.

The party’s call followed the announcement by Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, who increased his state’s minimum wage from ₦76,000 to ₦104,000, prompting the PDP to question why Kwara, under the leadership of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum chairman, remains behind.

In a statement issued by the PDP’s state Publicity Secretary, Olusegun Adewara, the party said, “It is sad that the Chairman of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum, who is supposed to be setting the pace for others, is lagging in this critical area.”

The party argued that with Kwara’s rising Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) and large federal allocations, civil servants deserve more. “It is unacceptable that a corps member now earns more monthly pay than a Grade Level 8 Kwara civil servant,” the statement read.

The PDP criticised the October 2024 introduction of the ₦70,000 minimum wage in Kwara, describing it as “the lowest compared to neighbouring states” and “long outlived with current economic realities in the country.”

The statement further condemned the state government’s spending priorities. “A government that is investing ₦30 billion in mere hotel renovations, planning to buy ₦1.4 billion worth of cars for lawmakers, and that acquired ₦80 million worth of vehicles for each local government chairman should not find it difficult to give hardworking workers what is due to them,” it stated.

It accused the governor of neglecting his duties to the workforce. “We strongly believe that the governor is deliberately shying away from his responsibility to invest in the welfare of workers, a critical factor in boosting productivity, stimulating the local economy and arresting the spate of insecurity,” Adewara added.

“Kwara must move away from the tokenism of the civil service with the current lifeless ₦70,000 minimum wage, which is insufficient to even cover a worker’s transportation expenses for a single month,” the statement said, while encouraging labour to demand a living wage in line with national developments.

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Gov Abdulrazaq hails President Tinubu over arrest of top terrorists, synergy with state govts

Gov Abdulrazaq hails President Tinubu over arrest of top terrorists, synergy with state govts

•assures residents of efforts to eliminate security threats
•KWASSIP to take inventory, support affected persons: Gov

Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has commended President Bola Tinubu and security agencies for the recent arrest of top leaders of terrorist groups in the country, calling it a strong indication of the efforts to rid Nigeria of terrorism.

In a statement on Wednesday, the Governor said the arrests of Mahmud Muhammad Usman, the leader of Ansaru, and his deputy Mahmud al-Nigeri, also known as Malam Mahmuda, attested to the extensive intelligence-driven counterterrorism operations of the administration.

“These arrests are a big win for the country. We commend the President, the National Security Adviser, and the leadership of the Nigerian Armed Forces, Army, Air Force, Navy, and the Nigeria Police and other agencies for this feat. On our part, we will continue to support the effort of the President and the security agencies on all fronts,” the Governor said in a statement.

“We are confident that these arrests, along with other efforts at various levels across the country, will stamp out the criminal activities in our communities.

“I again reassure our people that we will continue to work with the security agencies to eliminate threats and maintain security of lives and properties. Our people should rest assured that no resources are being spared to protect them and their properties. I also urge them to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the security forces and other state authorities.

“Nondisclosures or limited disclosure of specific security information or operation is not borne out of inaction or lack of concern. A lot is being done in collaboration with the security agencies, resulting in valuable intelligence gathering and analysis, arrests, and prevention of attacks that could have occurred.

“I, therefore, urge our people to remain alert but calm as renewed efforts are being made to curtail the cowardly activities of the criminals in our hinterlands.

“As more security operatives, including forest guards, are deployed to boost safety in the affected areas, I have also directed KWASSIP to immediately take inventories of persons affected for support. This will be done in collaboration with community leaders for inclusion and accountability.”

Rafiu Ajakaye
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor
August 20, 2025

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Justina Azuka has made history by becoming the first-ever candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to win an election in Nigeria.

Justina Azuka has made history by becoming the first-ever candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to win an election in Nigeria.

She was elected as the representative for Onitsha North 1 Constituency in Anambra State. This victory marks a significant breakthrough for the ADC, a party that has struggled to gain foothold in mainstream electoral contests.Azuka’s win is not only a milestone for the ADC but also a symbol of growing desire among Nigerians for a third force in politics.

Her campaign team praised the constituents for their support and peaceful participation, noting that the massive turnout reflected the resilience of the people’s democratic spirit.Some key highlights of Azuka’s victory include:

Historic Win: Azuka’s election marks the first time the ADC has secured a win in Nigeria, making it a landmark moment for the party.- Women’s Empowerment: As a female candidate, Azuka’s victory is seen as a step forward for gender representation in politics, inspiring other women to take part in electoral processes.

Alternative Voice: The ADC’s win in Onitsha North 1 Constituency signals a potential shift in the country’s political landscape, with voters increasingly willing to experiment beyond established party lines.

Grassroots Support: Azuka’s campaign received support from former Anambra Governor Peter Obi, whose endorsement was seen as instrumental in boosting voter confidence.

However, it’s worth noting that APGA’s Ifeoma Azikiwe ultimately won the Onitsha North 1 State Constituency seat, defeating Justina Azuka in the polls.

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29 State governors spent a whopping N79.97 billion on domestic and international travel

Nigeria’s 29 state governors spent a whopping N79.97 billion on domestic and international travel expenses between January and June 2025. Here is the breakdown of the amount spent by each state:

  1. Abia State – N1.03 billion
  2. Adamawa State – N2.24 billion
  3. Akwa Ibom State – No data available
  4. Anambra State – No data available
  5. Bauchi State – N3.66 billion
  6. Bayelsa State – N3.78 billion
  7. Benue State – N1.13 billion (only Q1 expenditure available)
  8. Borno State – N3.68 billion
  9. Cross River State – N3.68 billion
  10. Delta State – N884.81 million (only Q1 expenditure available)
  11. Ebonyi State – N1.45 billion
  12. Edo State – N3.51 billion
  13. Ekiti State – N3.76 billion
  14. Enugu State – No data available
  15. Gombe State – N1.20 billion
  16. Imo State – N928.34 million
  17. Jigawa State – N1.26 billion
  18. Kaduna State – N1.86 billion
  19. Kano State – N5.58 billion
  20. Katsina State – N548.24 million (only Q1 expenditure available)
  21. Kebbi State – N1.53 billion
  22. Kogi State – N1.75 billion
  23. Kwara State – N1.2 billion
  24. Lagos State – N6.23 billion (only Q1 expenditure available)
  25. Nasarawa State – N2.24 billion
  26. Niger State – N2.63 billion
  27. Ondo State – N1.83 billion
  28. Ogun State – No data available
  29. Osun State – N6.21 billion
  30. Oyo State – N1.89 billion
  31. Plateau State – No data available
  32. Rivers State – No data available
  33. Sokoto State – N2.59 billion
  34. Taraba State – N5.22 billion
  35. Yobe State – N3.70 billion
  36. Zamfara State – N2.77 billion

The total amount spent by the governors on travel expenses represents a 14.72% increase compared to the N69.71 billion spent during the same period in 2024.

Only 5 states and the Federal Capital Territory recorded foreign capital inflows during Q1 2025, with the FCT attracting $3.05 billion, Lagos State $2.56 billion, Ogun State $7.95 million, Oyo State $7.81 million, and Kaduna State $4.06 million.

The disparity between the amount spent on travel expenses and the lack of foreign capital importation in most states has raised questions about the effectiveness of these expenditures in driving investment and promoting economic growth.

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Sowore’s Detention: A Timeline of Events and Reactions

Sowore’s Detention: A Timeline of Events and Reactions

Omoyele Sowore, a human rights activist and publisher of Sahara Reporters, has been detained by the Nigerian police after honoring an invitation from the Inspector General of Police’s (IGP) Monitoring Unit over a petition. Here’s what’s happening:

  • Detention Background: Sowore was invited by the police over a viral video he recorded, highlighting alleged extortion by police officers on the Murtala Muhammed International Airport Access Road in Lagos. He arrived at the police headquarters with a travel bag, suggesting he was prepared for possible detention.
  • Bail Conditions: The police set bail conditions, including producing a level 16 civil servant as a surety and surrendering his passport. Sowore rejected these conditions, describing them as “illegal” and citing a Court of Appeal ruling that declared such conditions unlawful.
  • Alleged Assault: While in detention, Sowore claims police officers broke his arm during an attempt to transfer him to court without access to his lawyers. Amnesty International has condemned the alleged assault, demanding immediate medical attention for Sowore and accountability for the police officers involved.
  • Reactions: Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has condemned Sowore’s detention, describing it as a “shameful abuse of power” and “personal vendetta” by the IGP. Atiku demanded Sowore’s immediate and unconditional release, stating that his only offense was speaking out against injustice and bad governance.
  • Protests: Sowore’s supporters have issued a two-hour ultimatum to the police to release him or face mass resistance. Rights groups have also condemned the action, urging the IGP to intervene and ensure accountability within Nigeria’s security forces.

The situation is ongoing, with concerns about police brutality and the rule of law in Nigeria.

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The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced the Voter Registration Exercise in Nigeria!

Registration Details- Eligible Categories:

Those who’ve turned 18 but haven’t registered, those who lost or damaged their voter’s card, and those wanting to change their polling unit (within the same ward, from one LGA to another, or from one state to another)

Online Registration: Starts Monday, August 18, 2025, via (link unavailable)

Physical Registration: Begins Monday, August 25, 2025 at INEC Local Government Offices and designated centers.

Important Notes- Registration runs Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM.- INEC urges eligible Nigerians to register, emphasizing “Your votes start with registration. Don’t miss your opportunity to register”.- Beware of underage and multiple registrations, as they’re punishable and can lead to disqualification from the voters’ roll.

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How Kwara Central is Paying the Price of Disagreement Between Governor and Senate Representing Kwara Central,
Kwara Central Loses Over 1 Billion FG Projec – By: Comr. Sulaiman Abdulfatai O



How Kwara Central is Paying the Price of Disagreement Between Governor and Senate Representing Kwara Central
Kwara Central Loses Over 1 Billion FG Projects

By: Comr. Sulaiman Abdulfatai O

The alleged disagreement between Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq and Senator Saliu Mustapha is reportedly affecting development projects in Kwara Central, with over 1 billion Naira in Federal Government projects potentially being lost. This situation highlights the need for political leaders to prioritize development and put aside differences for the benefit of their constituents.

The Projects at Stake

According to sources, the projects in question were facilitated by Senator Mustapha and are aimed at improving the lives of people in Kwara Central. The loss of these projects would not only hinder development but also deny the people of Kwara Central much-needed infrastructure and services.

The Role of Appointees

The issue lies with the governor’s appointees, who are allegedly hindering project approvals. This raises questions about the role of appointees in project implementation and the impact of their actions on development.

Prioritizing Development

The situation in Kwara Central serves as a reminder of the importance of prioritizing development over political differences. Leaders must put aside their differences and work towards the greater good of their constituents.

A Call to Action

In light of this situation, it’s imperative for the elite to step in and facilitate a dialogue between Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq and Senator Saliu Mustapha. A peaceful resolution would not only salvage the projects at stake but also ensure the continued development of Kwara Central. Furthermore, those exploiting the disagreement for personal gain should be cautioned against pursuing actions that could further destabilize the region.

Conclusion

The potential loss of over 1 billion Naira in Federal Government projects is a significant blow to Kwara Central. It is essential for political leaders to prioritize development and ensure that projects are implemented for the benefit of the people. By working together, the people of Kwara Central can overcome this challenge and continue to thrive.

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Presidency Hits Back at Kwankwaso’s Claims of Northern Neglect

Presidency Hits Back at Kwankwaso’s Claims of Northern Neglect

The Presidency has responded to Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso’s allegations that the North has been sidelined under President Bola Tinubu’s administration. Kwankwaso claimed that national resources are being disproportionately allocated to the South, exacerbating poverty and insecurity in the North.

Presidency Lists Ongoing Projects

Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication, Sunday Dare, refuted Kwankwaso’s claims, stating that the Tinubu administration has initiated and continued several landmark projects in the North. These projects span roads, agriculture, healthcare, and energy.

Some of the notable projects mentioned include:

Roads: Abuja-Kaduna-Kano Expressway, Sokoto-Badagry Super Highway, Kano-Kongolam Road, Kaduna-Jos Road, and Kano-Maiduguri Dual Carriageway.
Agriculture: $158.15 million Agriculture Value Chain Development Programme in nine Northern states, Kolmani Integrated Development Project in Bauchi and Gombe, and the ACReSAL project to restore over one million hectares of degraded land.
Healthcare: Expansion of Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital in Zaria, University of Jos Teaching Hospital, Federal Medical Centre in Nguru, and revitalization of 1,000 primary healthcare centers.
Energy: Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano Gas Pipeline to improve energy distribution.
Railway: Kaduna-Kano Rail Line, Kano-Maradi Rail Line, and Abuja Metro rehabilitation.

Presidency’s Conclusion

Dare concluded that the Tinubu administration is delivering critical infrastructure in the North, and the region is not being left behind. “From roads to gas pipelines, health facilities to agriculture and railways, the Tinubu administration is committed to developing the North.”