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Court Stops Trump’s New Ban On Foreign Students At Harvard

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Trump in his office

A court on Thursday put a temporary stay on Donald Trump’s latest effort to stop foreign students from enrolling at Harvard, as the US president’s battle with one of the world’s most prestigious universities intensified.

A proclamation issued by the White House late Wednesday sought to bar most new international students at Harvard from entering the country, and said existing foreign enrollees risked having their visas terminated.

“Harvard’s conduct has rendered it an unsuitable destination for foreign students and researchers,” the order said.

Harvard quickly amended an existing complaint filed in federal court, saying: “This is not the Administration’s first attempt to sever Harvard from its international students.”

“(It) is part of a concerted and escalating campaign of retaliation by the government in clear retribution for Harvard’s exercising its First Amendment rights to reject the government’s demands to control Harvard’s governance, curriculum, and the ‘ideology’ of its faculty and students.”

US District Judge Allison Burroughs on Thursday ruled the government cannot enforce Trump’s proclamation.

Harvard had showed, she said, that without a temporary restraining order, it risked sustaining “immediate and irreparable injury before there is an opportunity to hear from all parties.”

The same judge had already blocked Trump’s earlier effort to bar international students from enrolling at the storied university.

‘Government vendetta’

The government already cut around $3.2 billion of federal grants and contracts benefiting Harvard and pledged to exclude the Cambridge, Massachusetts, institution from any future federal funding.

Harvard has been at the forefront of Trump’s campaign against top universities after it defied his calls to submit to oversight of its curriculum, staffing, student recruitment and “viewpoint diversity.”

Trump has also singled out international students at Harvard, who accounted for 27 percent of total enrollment in the 2024-2025 academic year and are a major source of income.

In its filing, Harvard acknowledged that Trump had the authority to bar an entire class of aliens if it was deemed to be in the public interest, but stressed that was not the case in this action.

“The President’s actions thus are not undertaken to protect the ‘interests of the United States’ but instead to pursue a government vendetta against Harvard,” it said.

Since returning to office Trump has targeted elite US universities which he and his allies accuse of being hotbeds of anti-Semitism, liberal bias and “woke” ideology.

Trump’s education secretary also threatened on Wednesday to strip Columbia University of its accreditation.

The Republican has targeted the New York Ivy League institution for allegedly ignoring harassment of Jewish students, throwing all of its federal funding into doubt.

Unlike Harvard, several top institutions — including Columbia — have already bowed to far-reaching demands from the Trump administration.

AFP

Tributes As Jibril Aminu Dies At 85

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…He brought brilliance to statecraft, says Tinubu

…Ex-Minister was man of remarkable intellect, dedication -Atiku

…Professor Aminu was man of uncommon intellect, integrity, service -Northern Govs

..We were so friendly, and he used to call me just Don -Etiebet 

By Paul Effiong and Caleb Ishaya

President Bola Tinubu, has said that the elder statesman, Professor Jibril Aminu, straddled his profession and politics exceptionally, bringing erudition and brilliance to statecraft.

AljazirahNigeria reports that Aminu, a two time minister died yesterday at the age of 85.

In this vein, Tinubu, in a press release extended his “condolences to the family and friends of Professor Jibril Muhammad Aminu, a respected academic and political leader. 

He recalled that the deceased was a professor of cardiology and one of Nigeria’s most decorated medical professionals.

“In his professional life, he earned many laurels for his grit, hard work, and expertise. He was a fellow of the Nigerian Academy of Science, a fellow of the Royal College of Physicians, London, a fellow of the West African College of Physicians, and a fellow of the Nigerian Postgraduate Medical College”.

“Professor Aminu served meritoriously in public service as Nigeria’s ambassador to the United States from 1999 to 2003 and as senator representing Adamawa Central Senatorial District from 2003 to 2011. He also served as Minister of Education and then Petroleum and Mineral Resources (1989–1992).

“Professor Aminu epitomised statesmanship and was committed to building a greater Nigeria”, the president noted.

Tinubu, also extended his condolences to the government and the people of Adamawa State where Aminu hailed from.

Professor Aminu’s passing, he noted “is a profound loss to the nation, but as we grieve, we must find solace in his legacy. He left remarkable imprints in the sands of time.

“May he find eternal rest in Aljana Firdaus. And may Allah forgive his sins”.

Similarly, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, described the late academic who served the Nigeria as Minister of Petroleum and Education in the then administration of former Military President, Ibrahim Babangida, as a towering figure in Nigeria’s political, educational, and diplomatic spheres.

Atiku, stated that Aminu, was widely respected for his distinguished career, which spanned several decades and included roles as a senator, minister, and ambassador.

The Turakin Adamawa, in a statement expressed deep sorrow over the passing of the statesman, highlighting his immense contributions to national development and democratic progress.

“Professor Jibril Aminu was a man of remarkable intellect and dedication. His service to Nigeria in various capacities—Minister of Education, Minister of Petroleum, and Ambassador to the United States left an indelible mark on our nation”, he said.

Aminu’s career was defined by impactful public service. He represented Adamawa Central as a Senator from 2003 to 2007 and served as Nigeria’s Ambassador to the United States between 1999 and 2003. His earlier roles included Minister of Education (1989–1990) and Minister of Petroleum (1990–1992).

Beyond politics, he made significant contributions to academia and medicine. Notably, he served as a Visiting Professor of Medicine at Howard University College in Washington, D.C., from 1979 to 1980.

Atiku, who joined other dignitaries at the National Mosque in Abuja for the funeral prayers (Jana’iza), praised the late professor for his integrity and passion for public service, saying “His contributions to medicine, academia, and the growth of democracy in Nigeria are legendary. His demise is a huge loss not only to the country but to humanity”. 

The former vice president extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and prayed for Professor Aminu’s soul to find eternal rest in Aljannah Firdaus.

Meanwhile, the Northern States Governors’ Forum, NSGF, has expressed deep grief over the death of renowned scholar, elder statesman, and diplomat.

A statement issued by  Spokesman to Chairman of the Forum and Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, described the late Professor as an iconic figure whose remarkable legacy in public service, diplomacy, and academia will be remembered for generations.

“Professor Aminu was a man of uncommon intellect, integrity, and service. His contributions to Nigeria spanned decades of diligent and patriotic service.

“From his tenure as Vice Chancellor of the University of Maiduguri to his roles as Minister of Education, Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources, Nigerian Ambassador to the United States, and later, a Senator representing Adamawa Central, he exemplified excellence and commitment to national development”, he stated.

“On behalf of the Northern Governors, I extended heartfelt condolences to the immediate family of the deceased, the government and people of Adamawa State, and all Nigerians mourning the loss of this distinguished statesman”.

The governor prayed Almighty Allah to forgive the shortcomings of the deceased, reward his lifetime of service, and grant him Aljannat Firdaus.

A former Minister of Petroleum Resources, Chief Don Obot Etiebet, also joined dignitaries in mourning the death of Professor Jubril Aminu as saddening.

Etiebet, in a statement said “This is sad, very, very sad indeed. We have lost a gem and an academic icon of international and national repute in medicine who made Nigeria proud.

“This academic guru was a vice chancellor of the University of Maiduguri and an executive secretary of the National University Commission.

“He joined full-time politics when the military administration of General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida appointed him first as minister of education and again as minister Petroleum Resources.

“He was also our Ambassador to the USA and a two-term Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“We were so friendly, and he used to call me just DON, and I called him PROF as we both lived on a street named after him on Parkview Estate, Ikoyi, Lagos.

“Professor Jubril Aminu was an embodiment of Nigerian ethos, humility, and he was an exemplary leader of the northern establishment but very friendly to many in the South both in business and in social circles.

“In 1998 when PDP was formed, he was a founding and an influential member and when the decision was to be made for the Party to cede the presidency to the South as we, southern aspirants, demanded, Professor Jubril Aminu was chosen as the chairman of the northern committee to evaluate the proposal and he came out with that famous agreement for the Southern presidential aspirants to sign on what they would do for the North if the North conceded the presidency to the South.

“He himself was an advocate of ceding the presidency to the South and needed that agreement to convince other members of the committee and northern hawks who were against a southern president.

“He was a good man, a good and dependable Nigerian who preached unity, understanding and togetherness. We shall miss him greatly.

“May his gentle soul rest in peace.

“May God grant his family the grace to bear the irreparable loss with fortitude”.

World Environment Day: FERA Condemns  Indiscriminate Waste Disposal

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FROM IKHILI EBALU,  BENIN CITY 

Foundation for Earth Rights Assembly, FERA,  yesterday raised concerns over the inefficient waste management system in the country,  blaming indiscriminate waste disposal, particularly plastic pollution, as responsible for Nigeria’s environmental challenges.

The Non-Governmental Organisation, NGO, noted that plastics, particularly single-use plastic pollution, is visible in all cities of Nigeria due to  inefficiency of the waste management system. 

Addressing newsmen in Benin during an event organised by Foundation for Earth Rights Assembly in commemoration of the 2025 World Environment Day  with the theme, “End Plastic Pollution in Nigeria”,  the Executive Director, Foundation for Earth Rights Assembly,  Nosa Tokunbor said there is an urgent need to halt plastic pollution in Nigeria and globally. 

Tokunbor stated that, Nigerians must reduce their dependence on plastic usage to save the earth and find alternative to plastic, which he noted is harmful to human health. 

The environmentalist identified poor waste management as largely responsible for plastic pollution, which he noted contributes immensely to climate change.

“It is estimated that 19-23 million tonnes of plastic leaks into aquatic 

ecosystems annually from lakes to rivers to seas from land based sources. Exacerbated by contributions from sea-based sources,  this combined plastic leakage has a major impact on ecosystems economies and society, including on human health. 

“Countries worldwide are now negotiating an international legally binding agreement to end plastic pollution.  Against this backdrop,  this year’s World Environment Day will focus on  ways to prevent plastic waste from escaping into the environment  such as curbing pollution from single-use plastic products and redesigning plastic products so that they last longer,” Tokunbor said. 

Tokunbor, who said  many countries lack the infrastructure to collect and recycle plastic waste, noted that recycling alone cannot put an end to plastic pollution in the country and globally. 

According to him, only nine percent of plastics are actually recycled globally because many  products are not designed to be reused and recycled. 

Commenting on the way forward,  he said tackling the rising environmental plastic pollution in the country requires development co-operation,  noting that it can help scale up policy efforts and resource mobilisation. 

Tokunbor added that ambitious policies are needed to end plastic pollution in developing countries like Nigeria, saying, ” Developing countries would reap important benefits but may lack sufficient resources to implement them. 

“Further international policy action is needed at the global level to end plastic pollution as reflected in UNEA Resolution  5/14 (United Nations Environmental Assembly,  2022) aimed at negotiating an international legally binding agreement,” he said.

Kwara:FRSC Deploys 450 Officers For Eidel-Kabir Celebrations

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From Abdul Salaudeen, Ilorin 

 Federal Road Safety Corps, Kwara State Sector Command, has deployed 450 personnel Including special marshals and first responders for the Eid-el-Kabir festival in the state.

Along with the personnel, 16 patrol vehicles, two power bikes, four ambulances, four light private tow trucks  and a 70 tonnes tow-truck will monitor all roads during the Eid-el-Kabir celebrations in the state.

A statement by the Public Education Officer, Basambo Olayinka Busari of the state sector command, revealed that the Sector Commander, Corps Commander Mufutau.  A. Irekeola has also deployed personnel for traffic control at strategic locations within Ilorin township and major cities in the state during the Eid-el-Kabir special patrol scheduled from 5th June to 11th June 2025 respectively.

Irekeola, admonished the motorists to obey traffic rules and regulations through out the Eid-El-Kabir celebrations.

He further enjoined drivers to avoid dangerous driving and wrongful overtaking, speeding, overloading, obstruction, use of Phone while driving, operating mechanically deficient and rickety vehicles among others.

In order to ensure free flow of traffic and safe motoring before, during and after the celebrations “the command is currently engaging in the public enlightenment campaign/mega rally in all interstate motor parks, early morning cry, market, church and mosque advocacies to  sensitize the motoring public in Kwara state.

According to the statement, the command is also carrying out special patrol operations/ traffic control to ease free flow of traffic along the major roads.

The sector commander wished the good people of the state of Harmony happy Eid-El-Kabir  celebration and advised motorists to drive with  caution and arrive safely to their destinations.

Sokoto: Police Embarks On Comprehensive Security For Eid-el-Kabir Celebration

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From Ibrahim Goronyo, Sokoto 

Under the leadership of Commissioner of Police, Ahmed Musa, the command has deployed personnel strategically to key locations, including Prayer Grounds and increased police presence to maintain order and crowd control. 

Deployment of officers to prevent and respond to emergencies. 

Police presence to prevent crime and ensure smooth transactions, with a focus on preventing counterfeit currency circulation in various marketing outlets. 

On major Highways, Traffic control measures were fixed to prevent congestion and ensure smooth movement

Foot and vehicular patrols will be increased to deter crime and maintain public order as well as proactive monitoring to identify and thwart potential threats. 

Statement by Police Spokesman, DSP Ahmad Rufa’i further said they would work closely with other security agencies, traditional rulers, and community vigilantes to ensure a unified security front

Residents and visitors are urged to cooperate with security personnel and report any suspicious activities through the command’s emergency numbers: 08032345167 and 08032861946.

Delta To Deploy Technology In Fighting Violent Crimes  

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Delta-State-Governor-Sheriff-Oborevwori
Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori

From Owen Akenzua, Asaba 

Delta State Governor, Rt. Honourable Sheriff Oborevwori , yesterday, announced the state government’s resolve to adopt modern technology in tackling crimes across the state. 

Oborevwori, who was worried by the growing insecurity in parts of the State, issued a stern warning to local government council chairmen, insisting that consistent attendance and active participation in monthly security council meetings is non-negotiable. 

Speaking during a high-level security stakeholders meeting in Asaba, the governor expressed displeasure over reports that some council chairmen have been neglecting their roles in coordinating grassroots security efforts. 

He emphasised that the monthly security council meetings are crucial for assessing threats, sharing intelligence, and coordinating responses to crime, and warned that any chairman who fails to take the meetings seriously would face disciplinary actions, including possible suspension. 

The Governor stressed that with renewed state of kidnapping, cult clashes and cult related killings as well as drug abuse, there was need for all security stakeholders to up their game in ensuring enhanced peace and security across the state. 

He further said that deployment of advanced surveillance systems, crime-mapping tools, and data-driven intelligence will enhance the effectiveness of law enforcement agencies and reduce criminal activities. 

He commended traditional rulers and security stakeholders for their continued support and partnership with government in the fight against armed robbery, kidnapping and other forms of violent crimes in the state. 

“Your commitment towards enhancing peace and security of the state is very commendable, however there is still a lot of work to be done. 

“Reports of insecurity especially kidnapping are still prevalent, this very disturbing and I urge our youths not to resort to social media and making inciting statements but to collaborate with security agencies and local vigilantes to confront the kidnappers and the perpetrators of other heinous crimes in their communities. 

“Security is a shared responsibility and as Council Chairmen you campaigned to win election, and you should know your environment very well. 

“House of Assembly members and Commissioners from every local government; we must all do our best to ensure that we have enhanced peace and security in our various local government areas. 

“We have been collaborating with the various security agencies, we have coordinated raids on black spots across the state and we have recorded several successes in this regard. We are doing our best and we have destroyed kidnapping rings. 

“The insecurity in the state has been compounded by the influx of undesirable elements from neighbouring states especially from across the Niger. 

“Very soon, we shall deploy technology to help detect and engage all these criminals undermining the peace of our dear state. 

“I earnestly expect that our local government council chairmen who are the chief security officers of their local government should hold their security council meetings regularly and brief me through the commissioner for local government or  brief me directly”. 

He vowed to hold the ALGON Chairman and his executives responsible for failure of Council chairmen to hold regular security council meetings and charged council chairmen to work together with the traditional rulers in their local government areas. 

He said; “As a governor, I manage all the traditional rulers in the state. So if I can manage all of them, you can also manage the traditional rulers in your respective local government areas. 

“Look at the rate of crime in our society today, our children are into drugs and all sorts of social vices. So you need to check what is happening around you. We will not take any form of laxity from any Chairman. By the time we use one or two persons as examples, others will sit up. 

“The conventional security agents deployed are trying their best and the community vigilante are to support and complement their efforts especially because they are more familiar with our people. 

“Hence, the council chairmen should ensure adequate funding are provided for them. If you don’t support them, they won’t work to aide the conventional security agencies. 

“I expect that the relationship between the stakeholders especially the traditional rulers and the security agencies should be cordial. Any domain whose traditional ruler is not cooperating with our security agencies would not be tolerated. 

“This is the reason I called you here to share ideas and suggestions on how to proffer lasting solutions to the security challenges we have in the state such as kidnapping, drug abuse, and so on”.

Briefing journalists at the end of the meeting, Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, said the stakeholders had a useful discussion where it was agreed upon that serious measures will be taken to curb the issue of kidnapping that is rearing its head in some places. 

“The various groups commended Governor Oborevwori and the security agencies for all they are doing to making sure Delta state is peaceful and safe, all the efforts they have been making so it is agreed upon that criminals, troublemakers alike, kidnappers should stay far from our state”.

Chairman, Delta State Council of Traditional Rulers and Orodje of Okpe Kingdom, HRM Maj Gen. Felix Mujakperuo ,Retd, Orhue I, appreciated Governor Oborevwori on the security stakeholders meeting and disabused the mind of Nigerians who believed that traditional rulers give lands to herders and collect money from them, saying “this is not true; in various communities, the lands belong to either the communities or families it doesn’t belong to traditional rulers. 

“Some bad elements in our communities take money from the helders and they will say that our kings are aware just to rubbish the traditional rulers. We believe that what we have done today will go a long way to ensure that security of the state is at the top. 

“We haven’t seen the presence of the Federal Forest Guards in all the local government, so we have not been able to use the local hunters effectively. But what we know is that we have vigilante in our various communities, the only problem we have is that they have not been properly funded”.

The Commander of the 63 Brigade of the Nigerian Army, Asaba, Brig. Gen. Folu Shonibare, said stakeholders at the expanded security council meeting were able to come together and agreed on how to curb the menace of kidnapping, cultism, farmers/herders clashes and the issue of drug abuse in the state. 

He disclosed that security agencies will continue to do their best to make sure that the state was cleared of all criminals, stressing that their efforts was already yielding impressive results as over 16 civilians that were about to be kidnapped were recently rescued in the state. 

On the protest that erupted in Abraka recently, the Brigade Commander said contrary to rumours making the rounds, nobody was shot as the military cleared the protest peacefully, pointing out that his men were very professional in discharging their duties. 

“The particular protest in Abraka went violent as it was hijacked by hoodlums who started flogging civilians along the road side, started closing down shops, forcing people to join the protest and even blocked the highway causing a very major gridlock; so, it was chaotic and the military had to wade in as the police were overwhelmed. Nobody was shot in that incident”, he added. 

Chairman of Ukwuani Local Government Council, Hon Possible Ajede, who spoke on behalf of the council chairmen, said; “We have been further directed to move back to our respective local governments to take issue of security further. It is a marching order and it is our position in line with the meeting now that all criminal elements should relocate from the state”.

Again, Military Kills 3 ISWAP Commanders In Borno 

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army

From HASSAN JIRGI Maiduguri 

Nigerian Air force, NAF, have reportedly eliminated three top commanders of the Islamic State of West Africa Province, ISWAP, during the failed terrorist attack on Mallam Fatori, Abadam Local Government Area of Borno State.

In a statement by Zagazola Makama, Northeast region security expert who confirmed that yesterday the commanders, identified as Amir Abu Ali Weldone, Amir Ibunu, and Amir Abu Waldume, were among those neutralised during the four-hour firefight at the Internally Displaced Persons, IDP, camp in Mallam Fatori.

According to him, the slain commanders played key operational roles in ISWAP’s hierarchy, with Abu Ali Wadume believed to be in charge of terrorist operations in Kerenoa axis near the Nigeria–Niger border.

He added that the troops of Nigeria military under operation Hadin Kai ambushed the terrorists during launched the coordinated attack from the Kaniram axis in the early hours of Wednesday, targeting troops.

They advanced in large numbers using armed drones and heavy weaponry, including Automatic Grenade Launchers, but were met with stiff resistance from ground troops, supported by mortar and tank fire.

Another source confirmed that at least 12 members of Militants were killed, with the recovery of seven AK-47 rifles, three general purpose machine guns, GPMGs, two rocket-propelled grenades, RPGs, and several explosive devices.

Zagazolo, further said that exploitation and battle damage assessment are still ongoing, but the confirmed killing of the three Amirs is a significant operational success”, he source. 

Source said troops were able to repel the assault after intense fighting, forcing the attackers to retreat in disarray.

Governor Adeleke Not Defecting To Any Party, Remains In PDP – Spokesperson

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From Richard Akintade, Osogbo

Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun state is not defecting from the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, to any political party. 

He remains a bonafide member and leader of the People’s Democratic Party ,PDP, in Osun state.

This clarification was made yesterday by the Spokesperson to the State Governor, Mallam Olawale Rasheed who faulted media speculations on imminent defection of the governor to the All Progressives Congress ,APC.

“The media speculation about likely or imminent defection is fake news. Governor Adeleke remains a member and leader of the PDP in Osun State.

“The visit by the Adeleke dynasty to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is a routine courtesy visit. Any reading of defection agenda into the visit is mere fake news”, the statement clarified.

Why Obi Stands High Chance Of Winning 2027 Presidential Elections 

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By Onah Lawrence

Although, I have a presidential candidate I support, Omoyele Sowore and continue to stand by his vision and ideology, the realities on the ground in Nigeria suggest that his chances in 2027 may be minimal. This is not because he lacks ideas or conviction, but because the Nigerian people today are deeply gripped by what many now call the “Obi fever”. Peter Obi, former governor of Anambra State and Labour Party presidential candidate in 2023, has become something more than just a politician; he has become a vessel for collective frustration, a symbol of integrity, and the face of the ordinary people’s hope for real change.

Despite the All Progressives Congress ,APC, having won governorship seats and retained a firm grip on power structures across the country, the mood in the land is shifting. While political elites may boast of securing key endorsements and consolidating power among the so-called “big wigs” the hearts of the Nigerian people remain largely untouched by their efforts. What this means is that the 2027 elections may not simply be another contest between political parties, but rather between the ruling establishment and the Nigerian people themselves—who are increasingly restless, increasingly united, and increasingly vocal.

Obi’s appeal lies not only in his policies, but in his character. He speaks with the clarity of someone who is not desperate to be liked by the elite but driven by a desire to serve. During his time as governor of Anambra, he was widely praised for fiscal prudence, reduced government waste, and investment in education and health sectors. Unlike many in the political class, Obi does not carry the usual baggage of corruption allegations or excessive flamboyance. His modest lifestyle, data-driven approach, and ability to connect with the masses especially the youth make him stand out in a political space often plagued by arrogance and impunity.

Over 60% of Nigeria’s population is under the age of 30. This youth demographic, once largely disengaged from the electoral process, is now rising in political consciousness. The 2023 elections were a turning point. Despite documented instances of voter suppression, violence, and logistical failures, young Nigerians came out in large numbers, driven largely by the “Obidient” movement. That movement has not died. In fact, it is evolving. It is organizing. It is preparing. And with more digital tools, civic awareness campaigns, and shared economic hardship, the young electorate may become the decisive force in 2027.

Furthermore, Peter Obi enjoys strong support from the Nigerian diaspora. These are citizens who, while living abroad, remain emotionally and economically tied to the country. In 2023 alone, Nigerians in the diaspora sent back over $20 billion in remittances—money that often supports families, small businesses, and local economies. But beyond financial support, this group has proven effective at shaping discourse, amplifying voices, and challenging misinformation through digital platforms. Many are prepared to go beyond commentary and contribute actively to the political awakening at home.

What the APC and other political players must not underestimate is the deepening disenchantment in the country. Today, feeding a family has become a luxury. Transportation costs are rising. Electricity remains unreliable. The removal of fuel subsidies, while economically rational on paper, was implemented without a solid palliative structure, leaving many Nigerians angry and overburdened. The cost of food, rent, healthcare, and education has skyrocketed. With every passing day, more citizens are pushed below the poverty line. It is this hardship not campaign slogans that is shaping the political will of the people.

It is often said in Nigeria that elections are won not by votes but by “structure”. This euphemism refers to networks of influence, money, and the ability to manipulate outcomes through collusion and sometimes outright rigging. But there is a limit to how long a people can be rigged out of their future. A popular Nigerian proverb says, “One day, one day, monkey go go market, e no go return”. The monkey, in this case, represents a system that has continually taken the people for granted. The market is the ballot box. And 2027 may well be the year the people decide to slam the door shut on the politics of deception and recycled failure.

The political elite might still believe they understand the Nigerian people. But what they fail to see is that the Nigerian people are beginning to understand themselves. They are learning that their voices matter. That unity across tribe, religion, and region is not a utopian dream, but a survival strategy. And in Peter Obi, many see a leader who listens, who reflects their frustrations, and who appears ready to govern with conscience.

If I were in APC, I would be more concerned about the people than the usual circle of loyalists and contractors. The next election might not be won with old formulas. What worked before may no longer hold. The people have been pushed to the wall, and when people realize they have nothing left to lose, they fight not just with ballots, but with belief. That belief, at this moment, seems firmly planted in one man Peter Obi.

He is not perfect, but in a system where perfection is rare, his credibility, humility, and message of hope stand tall. And in 2027, that might just be enough.

International Friendly: Super Eagles Coach  Explains Purpose Behind Russia Clash

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 Joel Ajayi 

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has shared the rationale for Nigeria’s upcoming international friendly against Russia.

The match is scheduled to take place at the Luzhniki Stadium on Friday, with Nigeria set to take on a strong Russian side. Speaking at a press conference on Thursday in Moscow, Chelle outlined the objectives behind the fixture.

“Although it’s a friendly, we have serious goals: first, we want to win; second, we aim to use this match to prepare for upcoming tournaments and qualifying games,” said the Super Eagles boss.

Chelle acknowledged the quality of the Russian team, describing them as formidable opponents

 “The Russian national team is very strong, with many high-caliber players. They play an intense, aggressive, and technically sound game,” he noted.

“Right now, I’m focused on developing a solid plan for the match.”

Under Chelle’s guidance, the three-time African champions have enjoyed a strong start, recording three wins and one draw from four matches