Former Imo State Governor Achike Udenwa stated that in Nigeria, a politician with enough financial resources can easily win an election.

He explained that Nigeria’s political system allows wealthy politicians to influence institutions like the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the police, and the military, thus ensuring their victory in elections.

Udenwa shared these views during his appearance on Edmund Obilo’s *State Affairs* podcast.

He remarked that Nigerians no longer examine the character, history, or qualifications of politicians seeking their votes.

Read Also: PANDEF Seeks Review Of Supreme Court Ruling On Rivers FAAC Allocation

“Sadly, in our society today, when someone asks for your vote, people don’t inquire: ‘What can you offer? What are your qualifications? What kind of character do you have?’ These questions are no longer asked. And even if I don’t vote for you, if you have enough money, you can still win,” Udenwa explained.

When asked if politicians could influence INEC, the police, the military, and voters, he answered, “You can buy everyone.”

He stressed that elections in Nigeria are largely driven by money, emphasizing the need to curb this practice for the right leaders to emerge.

Regarding the ongoing crisis in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Udenwa, a member of the party’s Board of Trustees, blamed the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) for the party’s troubles.

Although he acknowledged the PDP’s internal struggles, he also suggested that external forces were contributing to the crisis.

“There are external forces attempting to destroy the PDP through internal divisions. We are still working on resolving this, and I believe the PDP will survive,” Udenwa said.

He added that the PDP is aware of the APC’s role in the crisis but refrained from naming the individuals involved in destabilizing the opposition party.

On Saturday, President Donald Trump declared English the official language of the United States, arguing that it would help foster unity in a nation shaped by immigration from around the globe.

The White House released an executive order from Trump stating that it is “long past time” for English to be recognized as the nation’s official language.

“A nationally designated language is at the core of a unified and cohesive society, and the United States is strengthened by a citizenry that can freely exchange ideas in one shared language,” the order reads.

The new executive order revokes a mandate from the 1990s under President Bill Clinton, which required federal agencies and those receiving federal funding to offer assistance to non-English speakers.

Under the new directive, agencies still have the discretion to decide how much support to provide in languages other than English.

“Nothing in this order… requires or directs any change in the services provided by any agency,” the document notes.

It further states that agency heads are authorized to determine what is necessary to “fulfill their respective agencies’ mission and efficiently provide Government services to the American people.”

Since taking office, Trump has issued numerous executive orders aimed at solidifying his right-wing agenda, though many of these orders are facing legal challenges, especially those attempting to eliminate federal funding authorized by Congress.

While the White House acknowledges that over 350 languages are spoken in the U.S., the order asserts that English has been the nation’s language “since the founding of our Republic,” and highlights that key historical documents, including the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution, were written in English.

According to 2019 U.S. government statistics, nearly 68 million people speak a language other than English at home.

Despite English being the dominant language, more than 40 million people in the U.S. are estimated to speak Spanish at home.

Additionally, alongside immigrant languages such as Chinese and Vietnamese, the U.S. also has a diverse linguistic landscape, including many Native American languages.

Planning to travel from Nigeria to Canada and want to bring along some of your favorite local foods? While packing your beloved delicacies might seem like a great idea, not all food items are allowed at international borders.

Canada enforces strict import regulations that prohibit certain foods due to health, safety, and environmental concerns. Failing to declare restricted foods could result in confiscation, hefty fines, or even criminal charges.

Before you travel, it’s crucial to check the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) website, as regulations can change frequently.

If you’re getting ready for your trip, here are eight common food items that Nigerians cannot bring to Canada:

Homemade or Unlabelled Foods

Homemade meals, unlabelled snacks, and repackaged food items are not permitted. Only factory-sealed, clearly labelled products from recognized brands can pass through customs.

Honey and Bee Products

Raw honey, bee pollen, and royal jelly are restricted due to the potential for carrying bacteria and diseases harmful to local bee populations. Processed honey from approved sources may be allowed in small quantities.

Fish and Seafood

Dried catfish, crayfish, and herring are allowed, but fresh or frozen seafood without the proper certification is banned. This restriction helps prevent contamination from bacteria and marine toxins.

Meat and Meat Products

Canada strictly prohibits most meat products, including fresh, dried, smoked, or cured meats such as kilishi, ponmo, sausages, and bacon. Meat-based seasonings and broths are also not allowed, to help prevent the spread of diseases.

Dairy Products

Powdered milk, fresh milk, cheese, butter, and yogurt are not allowed without special permits. These restrictions are in place to protect against disease transmission. However, commercially packaged hard cheeses from approved countries may be allowed in small quantities.

Fresh Fruits and Vegetables

Fresh fruits like apples, oranges, and agbalumo, along with leafy greens and herbs, are banned because they can carry pests and plant diseases. Some dried vegetables, however, are allowed.

Eggs and Egg Products

Raw eggs and egg-based products like custards and mayonnaise are not allowed due to the risk of salmonella and bird flu. Commercially processed egg products, though, may be permitted.

Nuts and Seeds

Unroasted nuts, such as raw peanuts, cashews, and sunflower seeds, are prohibited to prevent pest infestations. Roasted, salted, or processed nuts are generally allowed.

On Saturday, Senate President Godswill Akpabio praised Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, for his development efforts in the state and for honoring Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, who represents Abia South Senatorial Zone.

He also suggested that a grand celebration could be in store for Otti if he decides to join the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Akpabio made these remarks during the 70th birthday celebration organized by the Abia State Government in honor of Abaribe, a former Deputy Governor of Abia State.

He described Otti as a generous leader whose actions are positively affecting the welfare of the people of Abia.

Read Also: PANDEF Seeks Review Of Supreme Court Ruling On Rivers FAAC Allocation

“Otti’s decision to honor Abaribe, despite political differences, shows his political wisdom and has earned him the affection of the people of Abia,” Akpabio said. “Governor Alex Otti is like me. He will be generous to the people of Abia because he has a kind heart.”

He went on to praise Otti’s political strategy, noting: “By honoring Abaribe, you’re not just celebrating him; you’re making a smart political move. Through Abaribe, you’ve won the hearts of Abia South. When you seek re-election, you will see that this was a wise investment. If you understand how highly Abaribe is regarded in Nigeria, you’ll see that you’ve honored a man you will never regret celebrating. Congratulations, my governor.”

Akpabio further added, “I have seen the good work you are doing, but I can’t openly commend you because you’re in the Labour Party— you’re still ‘labouring.’ The day you join the APC, you’ll hear my full praise and see how I will celebrate you.”

Akpabio also lauded Abaribe’s integrity and commitment to his people, recalling Abaribe’s decision to stand as surety for Nnamdi Kanu.

“Abaribe is a man of sacrifice, a true son of Ndi Igbo. When you signed the bail bond for Nnamdi Kanu, people were stunned. They wondered why a senator would take such a risk. When I asked you, you said you believed in his cause so strongly that even if he fled, you were willing to go to prison on his behalf. Today, we celebrate a man of remarkable integrity and grace. God’s grace has brought him this far,” Akpabio remarked.

“This is why I am here—not just for Abaribe. I’ve celebrated him in the Senate. I’ve come to join you, Otti, in thanking God for the life of a man who is worth emulating, a role model for Ndi Igbo and Nigerian youths, a man of great integrity.”

Governor Alex Otti also spoke at the event, congratulating Abaribe on his significant birthday and describing him as a fearless and courageous leader deserving of celebration.

“This celebration is not politically motivated. I am committed to honoring Abians who deserve recognition,” Otti said.

“We’re here to celebrate a man of courage, selflessness, and truth. This is not a political gathering. Politicians think about the next election, but leaders think about the next generation. If you came here thinking about votes, keep them. I’m not interested. By the way, have I told you I am running in 2027? I can return to where I came from. Some people say I went to London for meetings—we’ve been holding meetings right here. They’ve just run out of ideas,” Otti added.

The Rivers State Government has announced the launch of a 10-day project, set to begin on Monday, March 3, 2025.

This comes just a day after the Supreme Court ruled to prevent the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) from releasing federal allocations to the Rivers State Government and also annulled the recent local government elections in the state.

Despite the political tensions following the court’s decision, the Siminalayi Fubara-led administration has affirmed its commitment to continuing its development agenda.

The 10-day initiative will feature the unveiling of key infrastructure projects throughout Rivers State and beyond.

These projects span various sectors, including housing, fire services, security, healthcare, education, and judiciary welfare. The projects will take place in significant locations such as Port Harcourt City, Obio/Akpor, Khana, and Okrika Local Government Areas, and will also extend to Bayelsa State.

In a statement on Saturday, the Commissioner for Information, Joe Johnson, emphasized that these inaugurations reflect the Fubara administration’s commitment to sustainable development.

He explained that the projects are in line with the government’s focus on improving infrastructure, security, education, and public service delivery.

The commissioning events will involve participation from key government officials, community leaders, and stakeholders from various sectors. The public is encouraged to join in celebrating these milestones as the government works towards enhancing the quality of life and promoting sustainable development in Rivers State.

The project commissioning schedule is as follows:

March 3 – Government House Staff Quarters, PHALGA
March 4 – State Fire Service Headquarters & Firefighting Vehicles, PHALGA
March 5 – Handover of Helicopter to the Nigerian Air Force, Obio/Akpor
March 6 – Borokiri Fire Service Station & Firefighting Vehicles, PHALGA
March 7 – Rumuodonmaya Fire Service Station & Firefighting Vehicles, Obio/Akpor
March 10 – Akpor Monarch’s Palace & Residence, Obio/Akpor
March 11 – Judges’ Quarters, PHALGA
March 12 – Bori General Hospital, Khana LGA
March 13 – Okrika Grammar School Upgrades, Okrika LGA
March 14 – Furnishing & Electrification of Nigerian Law School, Yenagoa Campus, Bayelsa State

The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has called for a reassessment of the Supreme Court’s recent decision that blocked the release of Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) funds to Rivers State, expressing serious concern about its potential negative effects on the state’s progress and the well-being of its citizens.

In a statement signed by PANDEF National Publicity Secretary, Obiuwevbi Ominimini, the group stated that the court’s ruling is a significant setback for Rivers State, unjustly impacting its residents who depend on these funds for economic, social, and infrastructural development.

The statement further stressed that the people of Rivers State, who rely on these funds for their livelihood, are the primary victims of this ruling.

It also highlighted that Rivers, as a major contributor to Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, should not face financial hardship due to a political dispute.

“Denying the state its legitimate allocations imposes undue hardship on a population that has continually supported the nation’s economy,” PANDEF stated, urging the Supreme Court to reconsider its decision in the interest of national unity, economic stability, and social justice.

The statement also warned that the ruling could undermine ongoing peace and reconciliation efforts in the region, particularly the work of PANDEF’s Peace and Reconciliation Committee, led by Obong Victor Attah.

PANDEF called on judicial and political authorities to show fairness and insight when addressing issues that significantly impact the Niger Delta.

The statement also referenced a similar situation during Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s tenure as Governor of Lagos State, when the Federal Government withheld local government funds under President Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration.

“The withholding of local government funds from Lagos State was widely condemned, and it raises concerns that a similar, even more damaging situation is happening now with potentially serious consequences for peace and security in the Niger Delta,” the statement noted.

PANDEF reiterated its commitment to justice, dialogue, and sustainable development, urging all parties—including the Federal Government, political leaders, and the judiciary—to ensure that Rivers State is not unfairly penalized due to political issues.

In its ruling on Friday, the Supreme Court ordered the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), the Accountant General of the Federation, and other agencies to halt the disbursement of funds to Rivers State until it resolves the court’s accusations of non-compliance with its orders.

The court also annulled the state’s recent local government elections, declaring them invalid for breaching the Electoral Act.

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, has urged Mrs. Unoma Akpabio, wife of Senate President Godswill Akpabio, to refrain from intervening in the allegations of sexual harassment and intimidation leveled against her husband.

The conflict between Akpoti-Uduaghan and Akpabio began when she declined to sit in an assigned seat during a Senate session, citing Order 10 of the Senate Standing Rules.

Tensions escalated when she appeared on *Arise News* on Friday, accusing Akpabio of obstructing her motions, defaming her, and intimidating her after she allegedly rejected his sexual advances.

In response, Mrs. Akpabio held a press conference in Abuja, dismissing the accusations against her husband.

She maintained that both families had enjoyed a long-standing cordial relationship, even before Akpoti-Uduaghan’s marriage, and described the claims as unfounded.

However, in a letter dated March 1, 2025, and addressed to Mrs. Akpabio through her lawyer, Victor Giwa, Akpoti-Uduaghan advised her to stay out of the matter.

Titled *”Stay Away from Sen. Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s Sexual Harassment and Intimidation Allegation Against Sen. President Godswill Akpabio; To Safeguard Your Sanity and That of Your Family,”* the letter emphasized that the allegations were personal to the Senate President and that he should be allowed to defend himself.

Akpoti-Uduaghan stated that she had endured persistent harassment from Akpabio but was now compelled to speak out.

The letter partly read:

> “Our Client does not wish to draw you into the unfortunate controversy surrounding her allegations against the Senate President and urges you to refrain from engaging in the matter. While she has tolerated repeated harassment from the Senate President, she has now been left with no choice but to expose the distress and victimization she has faced in the Senate under his leadership.

> “Therefore, we emphasize that our client’s allegations are directed solely at the Senate President, and she firmly believes he is fully capable of defending himself against these claims.”

Akpoti-Uduaghan asserted that she possessed sufficient evidence to support her claims and urged Mrs. Akpabio to allow her husband to respond to the allegations for the sake of her peace of mind and that of her family.

> “Our client has substantial evidence to validate her claims. We advise that you allow the Senate President to handle his defense to safeguard your well-being and that of your family.

> “As an advocate for Nigerian women and a family woman, our client remains committed to upholding shared family values and preserving our common heritage.”

The ongoing verbal dispute between Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, and Senate President Godswill Akpabio took a new turn on Saturday as her husband, Chief Emmanuel Uduaghan, called on Akpabio to treat his wife with the respect and dignity she deserves.

Uduaghan, the Alema of Warri Kingdom, stated in a press release in Warri, Delta State, that he had initially chosen to remain silent but felt compelled to speak due to recent developments.

“I would never trade her for anything, as she is the greatest joy of my life,” he affirmed.

Expressing concern over the sentiments surrounding the issue, he noted that they were diverting attention from the core matters at hand.

“Without prejudice to the ongoing legal proceedings, I want to emphasize that my wife was elected by her people due to the immense love, respect, and confidence they have in her.

“She remains committed to providing quality representation for her district and the nation as a whole,” he said.

Uduaghan described Natasha as a devoted wife and a truthful person, even in challenging circumstances.

He revealed that she had confided in him about her interactions with the Senate President, whom he regarded as a family friend.

“In response, I handled the matter with the utmost maturity and responsibility. As a traditional leader who upholds family values and respects constituted authority, I sought to promote peace and harmony,” he stated.

He disclosed that he had personally met with Akpabio, urging him to treat his wife with the respect she deserves while also preserving their friendship.

According to him, both parties had initially agreed to resolve the issue amicably.

“However, despite this agreement, my wife continues to express concerns about the harassment she has endured from the Senate President,” Uduaghan added.

Reaffirming his unwavering trust in his wife’s loyalty and their marriage, he called on the Senate and Akpabio to treat Natasha with respect while the relevant authorities and the court address the underlying issues.

The National President of the Afenifere Youth Council, Eniola Olajuni, has regained freedom after spending 12 days in captivity.

The National Secretary of the Youth Council, Biodun Aderohunmu, confirmed his release in a brief WhatsApp message to our correspondent on Saturday.

“He has been released,” the message read.

Olajuni was abducted on Monday, February 17, 2025, while traveling to Abuja for a meeting.

His captors had initially demanded a ransom of ₦100 million and two tricycles for his release.

On Wednesday, the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, ordered the Intelligence Response Team to intervene following the circulation of a viral video showing Olajuni at gunpoint, pleading for Nigerians to help raise funds for his release.

Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin, has pledged to collaborate with Senator Muntari Dan-Dutse, who represents Funtua Senatorial District in Katsina State, to push for the creation of a new state, “Karaduwa.”

Jibrin emphasized that the establishment of new states would drive development and economic prosperity for the people of Katsina.

“I will work alongside my brother, Senator Muntari Dan-Dutse, to ensure the creation of Karaduwa State in Katsina. The demand by the Karaduwa people is valid—they are an agrarian community with all the necessary requirements for statehood. While it may be challenging, it is achievable, and I fully support them,” he stated.

He made these remarks in Funtua during the official launch of Ramadan food distribution and empowerment programs for thousands of women and youths, an initiative spearheaded by Senator Dan-Dutse, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Tertiary Institutions and TetFund.

Katsina State Governor, Dikko Radda, urged beneficiaries not to sell the distributed items and called for continued prayers for the government, particularly during the holy month of Ramadan.

Represented by his deputy, Hon. Faruk Jobe, Radda highlighted key achievements of his administration across various sectors, including education, healthcare, agriculture, security, and the economy.

“We have invested ₦120 billion in education, building 152 new secondary schools and renovating primary schools. Additionally, we have awarded scholarships to 109 underprivileged students to study medicine, artificial intelligence, and biotechnology abroad,” the governor revealed.

Senator Dan-Dutse reaffirmed his commitment to progress despite economic and security challenges.

“In terms of infrastructure, we have facilitated the establishment of the Federal University of Medical and Health Sciences in Funtua. The Katsina State Government has already committed ₦3.5 billion to the project, and despite its exclusion from the 2024 budget, we fought to have it reinstated in both the 2024 and 2025 budgets,” he explained.

He noted that a vice-chancellor and governing council had been appointed, and recruitment efforts for staff were underway.

“For the 2025 budget, ₦5.7 billion has been allocated for capital projects at the university, along with a ₦5 billion TETFund takeoff grant and an additional ₦2.9 billion in regular intervention funds,” he added.

Dan-Dutse described the university as a crucial step toward advancing education not only in Katsina State but across the Northwest, as Funtua serves as a strategic hub connecting Sokoto, Zamfara, Kebbi, Kaduna, Kano, and Jigawa.

As part of the Ramadan empowerment initiative, essential supplies were distributed across the 117 polling units in 11 local government areas (LGAs) of the senatorial district.

The items included:
– 8 trailers carrying 5,439 bags of fertilizer
– 4 trailers loaded with 3,795 bags of rice
– 1 trailer containing 1,100 bags of maize powder
– 100 tricycles
– 350 motorcycles
– 3,795 bags of maize
– 384 sewing machines
– 110 grinding machines
– 1,650 assorted rice seedlings
– 3,000 cartons of bottled water
– 11,700 bags of table water

The benefiting LGAs were Bakori, Musawa, Kankara, Kafur, Faskari, Matazu, Danja, Funtua, Dandume, Malumfashi, and Sabuwa.