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June 12: Tinubu hails MKO Abiola, promises to ease subsidy removal pains
He described the late businessman who died in suspicious circumstances after his election was annulled by the late Gen Sani Abacha, as the symbol of democracy.
Tinubu, who acknowledged the hardship being faced by Nigerians in the aftermath of the fuel subsidy removal, said his administration will “reward” their sacrifices with “massive investment” in transportation infrastructure, education, regular power supply, healthcare, and other public utilities that will improve their quality of life.
The President who said he identified with the pain of Nigerians argued that the temporal discomfort was necessary to save the country from going under.
“I feel your pain. This is one decision we must bear to save our country from going under and take our resources away from the stranglehold of a few unpatriotic elements,” Tinubu said in his maiden Democracy Day address to Nigerians as President.
In his inaugural speech on May 29, the President stated that subsidy can no longer justify its ever-increasing costs in the wake of drying resources. Therefore, it had to go.
The aftermath of Tinubu’s announcement was the increase in petrol pump price from N195 to N537 nationwide, alongside an ancillary price increase.
Addressing the aftermath of the move, he said, “It is for this reason that, in my inauguration address on May 29, I gave effect to the decision taken by my predecessor-in-office to remove the fuel subsidy albatross and free up for collective use the much-needed resources, which had hitherto been pocketed by a few rich.
“I admit that the decision will impose an extra burden on the masses of our people. Painfully, I have asked you, my compatriots, to sacrifice a little more for the survival of our country.
“For your trust and belief in us, I assure you that your sacrifice shall not be in vain. The government I lead will repay you through massive investment in transportation infrastructure, education, regular power supply, healthcare, and other public utilities that will improve the quality of lives.”
Speaking of the rule of law, the President said his administration will not condone conflicting and illegal orders that undermine Nigeria’s democracy.
He also described the bill he signed into law on June 8 for the harmonisation of the retirement age for judicial officers as one of many policy reforms to come.
“For Chief MKO Abiola, the symbol of this day, in whose memory June 12 became a national holiday, democracy is eternal.
“It is about the rule of law and vibrant judiciary that can be trusted to deliver justice and strengthen institutions. It has become imperative to state here that the unnecessary illegal orders used to truncate or abridge democracy will no longer be tolerated.
Judges retirement age
“The recent harmonisation of the retirement age for judicial officers is meant to strengthen the rule of law, which is a critical pillar of democracy. The reform has just started,” he said.
President Tinubu described the February and March elections as a true testament of Nigeria’s democratic journey, adding that the current legal contestations of the results are the “beauty of democracy.”
“That the polls were intensely contested is in itself positive evidence that democracy is well and alive in our land. It is only natural that even as those who won and experienced victory in the various elections are elated and fulfilled, those who lost are disenchanted and disappointed.
“But the beauty of democracy is that those who win today can lose tomorrow and those who lose today will have an opportunity to compete and win in the next round of elections.”
“Those who cannot endure and accept the pain of defeat in elections do not deserve the joy of victory when it is their turn to triumph.
“Above all, those who disagree with the outcome of the elections are taking full advantage of the constitutional provisions to seek redress in court and that is one of the reasons why democracy is still the best form of government invented by man,” Tinubu added.
Reminiscing on the 1993 struggles that ushered in a civilian government in 1999, the President venerated the Chief MKO Abiola, Kudirat Abiola, Alfred Rewane and Maj-Gen Shehu Yar’Adua who were silenced by the military junta saying “They gave their yesterday for the liberty that is ours today.”
President hails Abiola
“We can easily recall the sacrifice and martyrdom of Chief MKO Abiola, the custodian of the sacred mandate that was so cruelly annulled.
“He sacrificed his life in unyielding, patriotic defense of the ideals of democracy as symbolized in his choice, by his fellow countrymen and women, as their duly-elected President.
“There was an easier choice for him. It was to forgo the justice of his cause and opt for the path of ease and capitulation in the face of the tyranny of power. To his eternal credit and immortal glory, Abiola said no. He demonstrated the time-tested eternal truth that there are certain ideals and principles that are far more valuable than life itself,” said the President.
Therefore, he urged Nigerians not to take the liberty they now enjoy for granted as it was obtained through great sacrifice.
“The point is that we must never take this democracy for granted. We must forever jealously guard and protect it like a precious jewel.
“For, a people can never truly appreciate the freedoms and rights democracy guarantees them until they lose it.”
He pledged his administration’s commitment to diligently fulfill every component of its electoral pact with the people – the ‘Renewed Hope’ agenda.
“We shall be faithful to truth. Faithful to equity. And faithful to justice.
“We shall exercise our authority and mandate to govern with fairness, respect for the rule of law, and commitment to always uphold the dignity of all our people,” the President concluded.
The National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) has matriculated 70 inmates enrolled in various undergraduate programmes at its Special Study Centre within the Maximum-Security Custodial Centre, Enugu.
The matriculation took place on Wednesday during the 31st matriculation ceremony of the centre.
In an address at the ceremony, the Controller-General of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), Sylvester Nwakuche, described the event as a milestone in the Service’s commitment to using education as an instrument for the reformation, rehabilitation and reintegration of inmates.
Nwakuche, who was represented by the Assistant Controller-General of Corrections in charge of Zone M, Prisca Oku, said the NCoS would continue to strengthen correctional education and expand opportunities for academic, vocational and skills development across custodial centres.
He encouraged the matriculating inmates to remain focused, abide by the rules and regulations of both the university and the Service, and strive to become worthy ambassadors of the correctional education programme.
“I therefore encourage our matriculating inmates to remain focused, uphold the rules and regulations of the University and the Service, and strive to become worthy ambassadors of the correctional education programme,” he said.
He added: “To the matriculating students, I also urge you to embrace this opportunity with seriousness, discipline and determination.
“Your present circumstances should not define your future; rather, let this opportunity equip you with the knowledge, skills and character needed to build a productive and responsible life beyond custody.
“Your academic journey is not merely about obtaining a qualification; it is also about transforming your mindset, broadening your horizons and preparing yourselves for meaningful reintegration into society.”
Speaking at the ceremony, the Vice-Chancellor of NOUN, Prof. Udoma Oji Udoma, said the university had continued to provide quality and accessible higher education to inmates by offering 100 per cent tuition-free education at all levels.
Udoma, who was represented by the Director of NOUN Enugu Study Centre, Prof. Loveth Ekwueme, said the university had consistently championed inclusivity by providing educational opportunities for inmates.
“NOUN affirms its belief that education is a fundamental right, not a privilege,” he said.
According to him, the initiative reflects NOUN’s commitment to national development, social justice and the rehabilitation of citizens who deserve a second chance.
“To our new students: today you pledge to uphold the values of scholarship, discipline, and integrity. Your enrollment signifies courage, determination, and the desire to transform your lives through knowledge.
“Remember that education is the most powerful tool for personal renewal and societal reintegration,” he said.
The Controller of Corrections in Enugu State, Mr Valins Obizue, encouraged inmates to take advantage of the free educational opportunities available to them and pursue academic qualifications that could improve their lives.
Obizue commended the Controller-General of the NCoS and NOUN for providing a veritable and accessible platform for the reformation and academic advancement of inmates across the country.
In his welcome address, the Officer-in-Charge of the NCoS Maximum-Security Custodial Centre, Enugu, Dr Sunday Igwe, said the study centre commenced in July 2011 with 12 students but had grown to 262 students.
Igwe described the growth as more than a numerical increase, saying it represented “262 dreams, 262 aspirations, 262 opportunities and 262 journeys towards personal and professional development.”
He said the NCoS firmly believed that education was one of the most powerful instruments for human development, reformation, rehabilitation, reintegration, empowerment and positive transformation.
“Our custodial environment is not only about security and safe custody. It is also about preparing individuals for meaningful contributions to society.
“The presence and growth of NOUN academic activities within this environment demonstrates that education can flourish wherever there is commitment, discipline and determination.
“NOUN remains and offers the foremost Open and Distance Learning opportunity in Nigeria,” he said.
One of the matriculating inmates, whose name was withheld, appreciated the Controller-General of the NCoS and the Vice-Chancellor of NOUN for providing the educational and reformative programme and making it accessible to inmates.
The newly admitted undergraduates enrolled in various programmes, including Public Administration, Peace and Conflict Resolution, and Criminology and Security Studies, among others.
Highlights of the ceremony included the administration of the matriculation oath to the new students and the cutting of the matriculation cake.
By Okey Maduforo, Awka
The indefinite curfew imposed on Aguleri and Umuoba Anam communities in Anambra State following their recent communal clash remains in force as Governor Chukwuma Soludo has set up a Judicial Commission of Inquiry to investigate the crisis.
The governor also ordered an immediate ceasefire, warning that the state government would not tolerate further lawlessness or any breach of peace and order in the two communities.
The directives followed a conflict-resolution meeting convened by the governor at the Light House, Awka, which was attended by traditional rulers and other leaders from the affected communities.
At the meeting, the stakeholders agreed that both communities must lay down their arms and embrace peace.
In a statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Christian Aburime, Soludo lamented the loss of lives and destruction of property, saying the violence was inconsistent with his administration’s vision of a peaceful and prosperous Anambra State.
“Opening the deliberations, the Governor decried the tragic loss of lives and the widespread destruction of properties, emphasizing that such lawlessness is entirely unacceptable to the administration,” the statement said.
Soludo also directed security agencies to maintain a round-the-clock presence in the affected areas to ensure compliance with the ceasefire.
The governor assured the parties that the government would remain “firm, fair, and uncompromising” in its pursuit of lasting peace and justice.
Community leaders, including Igwe Michael Idigo and Hon. Fidel Okafor, condemned the violence, particularly the killing of a minor and an unarmed person from Umuoba Anam, as well as the retaliatory destruction of the historic Idigo Palace.
They called for an immediate end to the hostilities and the prosecution of those responsible for the violence.
Speaking as an observer on behalf of the Umueri community, retired Justice Charles C. Okaa appealed for restraint and urged the state government to enforce the 1982 Supreme Court judgment on boundary matters involving Umueri and Aguleri as part of efforts to achieve a lasting resolution.
The stakeholders also agreed on the immediate cessation of hostilities, prosecution of perpetrators, accountability for community leadership and the rebuilding of the destroyed Idigo Palace.
Condemning the destruction of the traditional palace as an attack on the heritage of the state, Soludo announced that the state government would assist in rebuilding it and restoring its traditional dignity.
The governor also established a Judicial Commission of Inquiry to examine petitions, complaints and historical grievances connected to the crisis. The commission is expected to submit its comprehensive report within four months.
However, the state government has yet to make public the names and number of members of the commission.
Meanwhile, the indefinite curfew remains in force as security agencies continue to maintain heightened surveillance in the affected communities.
For Squadron Leader Ahamefule Aham Man-Ugwueje, Monday was supposed to be another routine day of duty. Instead, the Nigerian Air Force pilot lost his life in the crash of an ATR-42 aircraft in Igbokoda, Ondo State, barely 16 days after his wedding.
Man-Ugwueje had married Flight Lieutenant Damilola Adekunle on September 19, 2026, in an elaborate ceremony in Abuja.
The couple exchanged vows at the Redeemed Christian Church of God, The Masters Place, Utako, Abuja, before proceeding to the Nigerian Army Conference Centre, Asokoro, for the reception.
Details of the wedding were contained in the couple’s invitation and posts shared by vendors who participated in the ceremony. A videographer, Beejay Creates, also shared footage from the event, identifying the couple as bride Damilola and groom Ahamefule.
Man-Ugwueje, who was identified by the Nigerian Air Force as the co-pilot of the ill-fated aircraft, was among the five crew members and 20 passengers who died in the crash.
The aircraft, NAF 931, was on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos when it crashed in a swampy area around Igbokoda in Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State.
The Nigerian Air Force on Tuesday confirmed that all 25 people on board died in the accident and released the names of the victims.
The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, described the incident as a deeply painful moment for the Nigerian Air Force and the nation, while commiserating with the families, friends and colleagues of the victims.
The Air Force also ordered a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Man-Ugwueje, whose Facebook profile listed Umuahia, Abia State, as his hometown and Abuja as his current city, was the son of retired Group Captain Man-Ugwueje.
Meanwhile, Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, said no survivor was found after security agencies, emergency responders and local residents joined the search for victims at the crash site.
Aiyedatiwa said he was informed of the crash at about 10:30am on Monday after receiving a call from the chairman of Ilaje Local Government Area.
According to the governor, residents across the river from the Nigerian Navy base in Igbokoda heard a loud sound and subsequently saw the aircraft plunge into the swamp.
He said Navy personnel initially exercised caution while trying to determine whether there was a fire or explosion before moving towards the crash site.
“When they noticed that it’s just an accident, they didn’t see any sign of fire. So they moved in, trying to see if they could rescue the people,” the governor said.
Personnel of the local emergency management agency, residents and members of the Amotekun Corps later joined the rescue operation.
However, the search ended in tragedy after authorities confirmed that there were no survivors.
A Nigerian Air Force ATR-42 aircraft on a routine flight from Benin City to Lagos crashed into a swamp in Igbokoda, Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State, on Monday after reportedly disappearing from radar shortly after take-off.
The aircraft, with tail number NGR 931, lost communication with air traffic controllers at about 9:13am. A senior air traffic controller, who spoke anonymously, said repeated attempts to re-establish contact with the aircraft failed.
According to the source, personnel around Okitipupa later reported hearing a loud bang suspected to have come from the crash site.
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, confirmed that the aircraft had disappeared from radar and that all efforts to raise it on radio were unsuccessful.
He later announced that the wreckage had been located near the Naval Base in Igbokoda.
Keyamo said 32 people—25 passengers and seven crew members—were on board.
The Nigerian Air Force confirmed the crash, saying the aircraft was on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos and that search-and-rescue operations had commenced in coordination with relevant authorities.
The crash site, located in a swampy creek, proved difficult to access, with military personnel, emergency responders and local fishermen joining the rescue operation.
Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa said no survivor had been found as of Monday evening, although the authorities had yet to officially announce a death toll.
The governor said rescuers recovered parts of the aircraft, identification cards and military uniforms from the site.
President Bola Tinubu expressed sadness over the incident and directed the Nigerian Air Force to immediately commence a thorough investigation into the cause of the crash.
Investigators are expected to examine the wreckage, flight path, weather conditions, maintenance records and air traffic control communications. Efforts were also being made to recover the aircraft’s flight recorder, which could provide crucial information about its final moments.
The cause of the crash remains unknown.
Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has disclosed that no survivor has so far been found following the crash of a Nigerian Air Force aircraft in Igbokoda, Ilaje Local Government Area of the state.
Aiyedatiwa made this known during an interview with Channels Television on Monday, saying local residents, security personnel and emergency responders had searched the crash site without finding anyone alive.
The governor said he received information about the incident at about 10:30am after the chairman of the local government contacted him.
According to him, residents living across the river from the Nigerian Navy base in Igbokoda heard a loud sound and subsequently saw the aircraft plunge into a swampy area.
He explained that personnel of the Nigerian Navy initially stayed back to determine whether the crash had triggered a fire or explosion before proceeding to the site.
“When they noticed that it’s just an accident, they didn’t see any sign of fire. So they moved in, trying to see if they could rescue the people,” Aiyedatiwa said.
He added that officials of the state emergency management agency, local residents and personnel of the Amotekun Corps later joined the search and rescue operation.
“But from the information we got, no single life was saved up to this moment. They could not see any living soul that was in that aircraft,” the governor said.
Aiyedatiwa said searchers recovered parts of the aircraft, including pieces of the wings, identification cards and military uniforms, which helped establish that the aircraft was a military plane.
“But they saw the ruins, some of the wreckage from the wings of the aircraft, you know, some ID cards, I was told, and then uniform. That was when they knew it was a military aircraft,” he said.
The governor described the incident as a painful development, noting that the crash occurred not only in Ondo State but also in his home local government area.
“So it’s a sad situation today. And we’re all really, really agreed as a Nigerian. And also it happens in my own state, not just my state, even in my own local government where I’m from,” he said.
Aiyedatiwa expressed sympathy for the military personnel involved, describing them as officers assigned to protect the territorial integrity of Nigeria.
The Nigerian Air Force had earlier confirmed that an ATR-42 aircraft with tail number NGR 931 crashed in Igbokoda while on a routine mission from Benin, Edo State, to Lagos.
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, said preliminary information indicated that 25 passengers and seven crew members were on board the aircraft.
The Nigerian Air Force said search and rescue operations were ongoing following the crash.
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