Court Rejects IGP Plans To Stop Free Nnamdi Kanu Protest, US Warns Citizens
https://osazuwaakonedo.news/court-rejects-igp-plans-to-stop-free-nnamdi-kanu-protest-us-warns-citizens/
#Breaking News #Abuja #Biafra #Kanu #Nnamdi #Sowore #US ©October 17th, 2025 ®October 17, 2025 5:51 pm Justice Mohammed Garba Umar of the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja on Friday apparently rejected the plans by the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun to stop the upcoming Monday, October 20th planned mass protests by Nigerians to demand the release of the detained Biafra Republic agitation leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, but, according to the organiser of the protest, Omoyele Sowore, after the Judge initially declined to grant the Nigeria Police Force an ex-parte motion to stop the planned protest in the open court, the "Federal High Court judge, Justice Umar reportedly granted the motion in chambers, imposing a ban on protests at Aso Rock Villa, National Assembly, or Unity Fountain in Abuja, we await a certified true copy of the order, which our lawyers will review, the protest remains unstoppable", while this is ongoing, the United States, US Embassy in Nigeria has warned America citizens to be far from the protest areas and limit their movements in the Nigeria capital city, Abuja, saying, the planned protest may lead to disruptions and violence.
#OsazuwaAkonedo
Dave Umahi, AriseTV, Rufai Oseni, The Narrative Of Not Being A Journalist
https://osazuwaakonedo.news/dave-umahi-arisetv-rufai-oseni-the-narrative-of-not-being-a-journalist/
#Columns #AriseTV #Journalism #Oseni #Rufai #Umahi ©October 12th, 2025 ®October 12, 2025 6:06 pm Whenever controversies surround Rufai Oseni, the outspoken and fearless broadcaster on Arise Television, one recurring argument often resurfaces in public discourse — the claim that “Rufai Oseni is not a journalist", critics are quick to emphasize that he lacks a formal academic background in journalism, having originally trained in animal anatomy, but beyond the semantics of qualification, a deeper question emerges: What truly defines a journalist, and what are the core functions of journalism in society? #OsazuwaAkonedo
Army Denies Threats Against Free Nnamdi Kanu Mass Protest, Sowore Meets GEJ
https://osazuwaakonedo.news/army-denies-threats-against-free-nnamdi-kanu-mass-protest-sowore-meets-gej/10/10/2025/
#Issues #army #Biafra #Kanu #NA #Nnamdi #Sowore ©October 10th, 2025 ®October 10, 2025 9:32 pm Nigerian Army authority has issued a statement, denying threat messages issued against members of the public ahead of the planned mass protest slated for October 20, 2025 to demand for the release and freedom of the detained Biafra Republic agitation leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, just as the organiser and chief campaigner, Omoyele Sowore, the publisher of SaharaReporters news media met to seek understanding with the former President of Nigeria, Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, who, according to Sowore, promised to visit President Bola Ahmed Tinu
https://osazuwaakonedo.news/court-rejects-igp-plans-to-stop-free-nnamdi-kanu-protest-us-warns-citizens/
#Breaking News #Abuja #Biafra #Kanu #Nnamdi #Sowore #US ©October 17th, 2025 ®October 17, 2025 5:51 pm Justice Mohammed Garba Umar of the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja on Friday apparently rejected the plans by the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun to stop the upcoming Monday, October 20th planned mass protests by Nigerians to demand the release of the detained Biafra Republic agitation leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, but, according to the organiser of the protest, Omoyele Sowore, after the Judge initially declined to grant the Nigeria Police Force an ex-parte motion to stop the planned protest in the open court, the "Federal High Court judge, Justice Umar reportedly granted the motion in chambers, imposing a ban on protests at Aso Rock Villa, National Assembly, or Unity Fountain in Abuja, we await a certified true copy of the order, which our lawyers will review, the protest remains unstoppable", while this is ongoing, the United States, US Embassy in Nigeria has warned America citizens to be far from the protest areas and limit their movements in the Nigeria capital city, Abuja, saying, the planned protest may lead to disruptions and violence.
#OsazuwaAkonedo
Dave Umahi, AriseTV, Rufai Oseni, The Narrative Of Not Being A Journalist
https://osazuwaakonedo.news/dave-umahi-arisetv-rufai-oseni-the-narrative-of-not-being-a-journalist/
#Columns #AriseTV #Journalism #Oseni #Rufai #Umahi ©October 12th, 2025 ®October 12, 2025 6:06 pm Whenever controversies surround Rufai Oseni, the outspoken and fearless broadcaster on Arise Television, one recurring argument often resurfaces in public discourse — the claim that “Rufai Oseni is not a journalist", critics are quick to emphasize that he lacks a formal academic background in journalism, having originally trained in animal anatomy, but beyond the semantics of qualification, a deeper question emerges: What truly defines a journalist, and what are the core functions of journalism in society? #OsazuwaAkonedo
Army Denies Threats Against Free Nnamdi Kanu Mass Protest, Sowore Meets GEJ
https://osazuwaakonedo.news/army-denies-threats-against-free-nnamdi-kanu-mass-protest-sowore-meets-gej/10/10/2025/
#Issues #army #Biafra #Kanu #NA #Nnamdi #Sowore ©October 10th, 2025 ®October 10, 2025 9:32 pm Nigerian Army authority has issued a statement, denying threat messages issued against members of the public ahead of the planned mass protest slated for October 20, 2025 to demand for the release and freedom of the detained Biafra Republic agitation leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, just as the organiser and chief campaigner, Omoyele Sowore, the publisher of SaharaReporters news media met to seek understanding with the former President of Nigeria, Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, who, according to Sowore, promised to visit President Bola Ahmed Tinu
Category
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NewsTranscript
00:00Justice Mohammed Gaba Umar of the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja on Friday apparently rejected the plans by the Inspector General of Police, IGP Ka Yode Egbetokan to stop the upcoming Monday, October 20 planned mass protests by Nigerians to demand the release of the detained Biafra Republic agitation leader, Mazin Amdekanu, but, according to the organiser of the protest, Omiyele Sawari,
00:26after the judge initially declined to grant the Nigeria Police Force an ex-party motion to stop the planned protest in the open court, the Federal High Court Judge, Justice Umar reportedly granted the motion in chambers, imposing a ban on protests at Aso Rock Villa, National Assembly, or Unity Fountain in Abuja, we await a certified true copy of the order, which our lawyers will review,
00:51The protest remains unstoppable, while this is ongoing, the United States, US Embassy in Nigeria has warned America citizens to be far from the protest areas and limit their movements in the Nigeria capital city, Abuja, saying,
01:07The planned protest may lead to disruptions and violence. Detailed of the court action as captured by Punch newspaper, the Federal High Court in Abuja has refused the Nigeria Police Force's bid to stop the Free Namdi Kanono protest, allowing it to proceed as scheduled on Monday, October 20, 2025.
01:27The Inspector General of Police, Kiyode Egbetokan, had dispatched police lawyers to the court to move an ex-party motion against activist and protest organiser, Omiyele Sawari, in a bid to legally pre-empt the planned demonstration slated for the Aso Rock Villa.
01:44However, Justice Umar of the Federal High Court, Abuja, declined to grant the motion, which would have immediately restrained the protest from taking place without hearing the opposing side.
01:57The judge instead instructed the police to formally serve notice of their application on Sawari and adjourned the case until Tuesday for a proper, contested hearing.
02:07Reacting to the judicial decision, the protest convener, Omiyele Sawari, affirmed the court's decision as a victory for civil liberties and doubled down on the scheduled protest.
02:19In a statement issued on his ex-handle on Friday following the ruling, Sawari said,
02:24IG of Police, Nigeria, Kiyode Egbetokan dispatched police lawyers to sue me, in an effort to halt the Free Namdi Kanono protest scheduled for Aso Rock Villa on Monday.
02:35However, the judge, Justice Umar of Federal High Court in Abuja, refused to grant the ex-party motion, instead instructing him to serve me notice and adjourning the case until Tuesday for a proper hearing.
02:49The demonstration, organized under the hashtag Free Namdi Kanono, is intended to draw attention to the prolonged detention and legal fate of Kano.
02:58The police action was seen as an attempt to leverage the courts to prevent a potentially sensitive gathering near the seat of Nigerian power.
03:07The adjournment to Tuesday ensures that the planned Monday protest is not currently constrained by a court order,
03:13setting the stage for a potential high-profile confrontation between protesters and security agencies around the presidential villa.
03:21Channels Television also on Friday reported that, ahead of the Free Namdi Kanono protests slated for Monday, October 20 in the nation's capital,
03:31the U.S. Embassy in Abuja has issued a security alert to Americans.
03:35In a statement published on its website on Friday, the embassy cautioned that the protest could lead to disruptions and potential violence.
03:43The embassy advised U.S. citizens to steer clear of the protest areas and limit their movement across the city.
03:50The U.S. Embassy in Abuja informs U.S. citizens that the Free Namdi Kanono now protest has called for peaceful demonstrations on Monday, October 20, 2025, in Abuja.
04:03There may be roadblocks, traffic, congestion, and confrontations between police and protesters
04:09that could turn violent around Eagle Square and the Central Business District.
04:15The embassy advises all U.S. citizens to avoid this area and to severely limit all movement throughout the city on Monday, October 20,
04:23the statement read in part.
04:25The embassy recommended that children stay home from school and that domestic staff who commute from outside Abuja
04:32do not report to work on that day.
04:34It also called on all Americans in Nigeria to take heightened security precautions.
04:40The planned protest was announced by activist and former presidential candidate of the African Action Congress,
04:47Omiele Saware, on his ex-account on October 9.
04:51Saware stated that the protest would take place on October 20 and be directed toward the Aso Rock presidential villa.
04:59He described it as a, historic, and peaceful demonstration aimed at securing the release of the leader of the prescribed indigenous people of Biafra,
05:07Namdi Karno.
05:09Karno, who is currently facing terrorism charges at the Federal High Court in Abuja,
05:15has been in custody since June 2021 following his controversial extradition from Kenya.
05:21But shortly after the aforesaid media reports,
05:24Omiele Saware in a statement through his social media accounts on Friday,
05:28said that, after failing to obtain a legitimate court order to halt the unstoppable free Namdi Karno protest,
05:35the Nigeria police force has now resorted to a fresh wave of panic-driven measures.
05:41In Ondo state, police authorities have reportedly ordered that officers sympathetic to the movement be confined to their barracks,
05:48an action that exposes the deep unease within the system.
05:51Rather than engage with the legitimate and peaceful demands of citizens,
05:56the police are turning their energy toward internal repression and fear tactics,
06:01a clear sign that the movement's message has struck a nerve.
06:04The people are awake, and the movement remains unstoppable.
06:08In another statement on Friday accompanied with video footage,
06:12Omiele Saware said,
06:13Earlier today, the Nigeria police force, FCT command invited barrister Maxwell O'Para to discuss the planned free Namdi Karno protest.
06:23Upon our arrival at the command's entrance,
06:26we were abruptly stopped by a police contingent stationed at the gate.
06:30Officers claimed the new commissioner of police was resuming duty
06:34and could not attend to visitors until after his official resumption rituals.
06:39When we were eventually allowed through,
06:40the senior police officer, Habib Mohamed who had extended the invitation met us
06:45and presented a copy of the organizers' letter seeking police protection,
06:50barrister Maxwell O'Para had not arrived at that point,
06:54a letter filed by barrister O'Para as legal representative of the protest movement.
06:59But the tone of the meeting shifted quickly after the senior police officer Mohamed received a phone call.
07:05He informed us that the deputy commissioner of police, DCP,
07:09in charge of the State Intelligence Department, SID, wished to meet us.
07:15When we arrived at his office,
07:17he expressed surprise at my presence at the FCT command,
07:20claiming that no invitation had been extended to me personally.
07:24He remained polite, and we left courteously.
07:28Shortly after, barrister Maxwell O'Para arrived to the Supol's office,
07:32where the conversation turned tense.
07:34The officer issued a veiled threat, warning that barrister O'Para would be
07:39held responsible if anything goes wrong anywhere in Abuja on Monday.
07:44Barrister O'Para reminded him that this was precisely why the organizers had sent a formal notification
07:50to ensure a peaceful and lawful demonstration.
07:53The officer reportedly began shouting,
07:56and the meeting ended abruptly.
07:58According to barrister O'Para,
08:00it became clear that they did not want me present because they were seeking someone they
08:04could intimidate.
08:06Not long after we left the command,
08:09the illegal IGP directed police lawyers to obtain a court order to stop the protest.
08:14However,
08:15the federal high court judge declined to grant the order in open court.
08:19It was later reported that a limited-purpose order was issued,
08:24but no such order has been served on the organizers.
08:28The free Namdekanuno protest is unstoppable.
08:31We are proceeding as planned,
08:33peacefully,
08:34lawfully,
08:34and with unwavering resolve,
08:36Omele Saware stated.
08:38Whenever controversies surround Rufay Asaini,
08:49the outspoken and fearless broadcaster on Arise Television,
08:53one recurring argument often resurfaces in public discourse,
08:57the claim that Rufay Asaini is not a journalist,
09:01critics are quick to emphasize that he lacks a formal academic background in journalism,
09:05having originally trained in animal anatomy,
09:08but beyond the semantics of qualification,
09:11a deeper question emerges.
09:13What truly defines a journalist,
09:15and what are the core functions of journalism in society?
09:18As mass communication teacher,
09:20we teach students from the very first class that the media exists to inform,
09:25educate,
09:26entertain,
09:27and preserve cultural heritage.
09:29Journalists also play the crucial roles of agenda setting and acting as watchdogs,
09:34holding public officials accountable and amplifying the voices of the governed.
09:39The media's capacity to shape national conversations is immense.
09:43By highlighting specific issues and giving them prominence,
09:47journalists help raise awareness and influence public perception.
09:51It is through such agenda setting functions that societies engage in dialogue,
09:55debate,
09:56and reform,
09:57thereby playing participatory role in the process of governance.
10:01When examined through this functional lens,
10:04it becomes clear that Rufay Asaini has consistently fulfilled these journalistic responsibilities over the years.
10:11His incisive questioning,
10:13fearless commentary,
10:14and commitment to public accountability have made him one of the most recognizable broadcast personalities in contemporary Nigerian media.
10:22A notable example is his now-famous exchange with the Minister of Works,
10:28Engineer Dave Umahi,
10:29on Arise Television.
10:31Before that encounter,
10:33few Nigerians had publicly interrogated the cost per kilometer of road construction projects executed by government agencies.
10:41While the Minister initially dismissed Rufay's question as,
10:44elementary,
10:45the issue soon gained traction nationally.
10:47In fact,
10:49subsequent clarifications by Umahi,
10:52and even a public response by Oyo State Governor,
10:55Sayemar Kinday demonstrated that Asaini's line of questioning had forced an important accountability conversation into the mainstream.
11:03Through this singular act,
11:05Rufay did what the media are mandated to do,
11:08hold power accountable,
11:10enlighten the public,
11:11and stimulate civic engagement.
11:14It is true that a formal qualification,
11:16such as a diploma or degree in journalism,
11:19is generally considered a prerequisite for professional practice.
11:23Yet,
11:24history tells a different story about the Nigerian press.
11:28Many of the country's most celebrated media pioneers,
11:31from Herbert Macaulay to Ernest Akali,
11:34Namdi Ezekewe,
11:35and Obafemi Awaloo,
11:37were not trained journalists in the academic sense.
11:40Nevertheless,
11:41through passion,
11:42intellect,
11:43and experience,
11:44they became towering figures in the nation's journalistic landscape.
11:48In the decades that followed,
11:50major Nigerian newspapers like The Guardian,
11:53The Punch,
11:54The Tribune,
11:55and the defunct National Concord
11:57were edited by professionals whose backgrounds spanned literature,
12:01political science,
12:02law,
12:02and the humanities,
12:04not necessarily journalism.
12:06What mattered was their adherence to journalistic ethics and commitment to truth.
12:11Today,
12:12journalism is evolving faster than ever.
12:15The rise of social and digital media has democratized information dissemination,
12:20giving birth to citizen journalism,
12:22a space where individuals,
12:24regardless of academic background,
12:26can contribute meaningfully to public discourse.
12:28The boundaries of professional journalism have expanded,
12:33now encompassing voices trained in diverse disciplines but committed to the principles of truth, balance, and fairness.
12:40In this context,
12:42Rufayasani's two decades of consistent broadcast experience,
12:46his engagement with media ethics,
12:48and his pursuit of professional development courses,
12:51all reinforce his credibility,
12:54his work reflects a mastery of journalism's essence,
12:57even if his educational roots lie elsewhere.
12:59The debate over Rufayasani's academic background may continue,
13:04but it misses the more profound point.
13:07Journalism is as much a calling as it is a profession.
13:10It demands curiosity,
13:12courage,
13:13critical thinking,
13:14and an unwavering commitment to public interest.
13:17By these measures,
13:19Rufayasani has proven himself a journalist,
13:22not by certificate,
13:23but by conviction and consistent service to society.
13:27Writer,
13:28Issa Abdulaziz,
13:29Mass Communication Lecturer,
13:31Federal Polytechnic,
13:32Ouchie.
13:34I will.
13:34Yes, I...
13:35Minister, I would like to interject.
13:36This monologue is quite long.
13:38So, at first,
13:39Minister,
13:39after you had gone to report me in front of President Tinubo and said all sorts,
13:44anyway,
13:45I am not beholden to you.
13:46My job is accountability.
13:47You are too small for me to report you to the President.
13:49No, but they are...
13:50You are too small for me to report you to the President.
13:52Minister, let me speak.
13:53Minister,
13:54Minister,
13:54Minister,
13:55Minister,
13:56let me speak.
13:57I have empirical evidence.
13:58The world watched it on the Commission of the Project,
14:01where you mentioned the questions I asked you to the President.
14:04That was reporting me to the President officially.
14:07The world watches,
14:07so you don't need to delete that all about the empirical facts.
14:10I don't talk without facts, Minister.
14:12You know, when I have my facts, I talk.
14:13And I insist on my question when I ask on court facts.
14:16Rufayasani, I only address you in a forum like this.
14:19You will not allow me to speak.
14:21The problem is,
14:21you will not allow me to speak.
14:22You spoke for over 20 minutes,
14:24over 10 minutes.
14:25Because you don't know what you are speaking.
14:26But let me speak.
14:27You don't know what you are speaking.
14:28Let me speak.
14:28You will not allow me to speak.
14:31You see?
14:32If you can just keep quiet and be calm
14:34and just allow me to speak,
14:35I will be happy.
14:36All right?
14:37So, my question still persists
14:39as regards the cost per kilometer.
14:41You cannot tell me
14:42that we don't have a right to know the cost per kilometer.
14:45Even if it's an undulating landscape,
14:46give us all the facts and the details of the cost per kilometer.
14:49That's all we'll ask for.
14:50Other questions as regards the loans taken.
14:54Let me finish.
14:55No, no, no.
14:56I will keep quiet for you to damage people.
14:58Let me finish.
14:58Listen to me.
14:59Minister, you will not allow me to speak.
15:01The minister will not allow me to speak.
15:02No, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no.
15:04Don't do that with me.
15:05Minister, you will not allow me to speak.
15:05Don't do that with me.
15:07I was in your studio.
15:08Minister, I will not allow me to speak.
15:08And when the first section was on,
15:11and I ran the figures.
15:13And what you are asking us
15:14is 750 kilometers of coastal highway.
15:17We should tell you cost per kilometer.
15:19So, you multiply by 750.
15:21That's narcissica.
15:22No, so tell me the cost per kilometer.
15:24There's nothing too hard for you to tell me that figure.
15:26You've not still told me that figure.
15:27So, I was right on that point.
15:28The second point.
15:29Because you don't understand anything
15:32The second point I'm trying to make is this.
15:33You don't understand anything.
15:34I'm a professor in this field.
15:36Okay.
15:36You don't understand anything.
15:38What university gave you professorship in this field?
15:39And you cannot ask me to tell you a cost.
15:41What university gave you professorship in engineering?
15:43I didn't know you were professor Omayi, minister.
15:46I didn't know.
15:47So, please.
15:49I'm professor in practice.
15:52In practice.
15:53I'm professor in practice.
15:54Okay.
15:54I understand engineering very well.
15:56So, secondly.
15:56And you have no knowledge of what you're asking.
15:58If you will let me.
15:59You have no knowledge.
16:00If you will let me ask questions.
16:01So, you keep quiet.
16:03Okay.
16:03And then stop, you know.
16:05Minister, it's all right.
16:06Keep dignifying yourself.
16:08And let the world see you for who you are.
16:09If you will allow me to speak.
16:12The other hundred kilometers that you said you've added to it.
16:15We would like to know the cost per kilometer of that one.
16:19And the Winsome Homes.
16:21The case is in court.
16:23Now, I would like to know the cost per kilometer for that one.
16:25And I would like to also know the over 700 billion first tranche of loan you guys got for this project.
16:31Has the money been spent?
16:32How was the money deployed?
16:34I would also like to know.
16:35I would also like to know the times of that loan.
16:38All right?
16:38How many years?
16:39What's the payback period?
16:40What's the payback return of that loan?
16:42And for the Winsome Homes, isn't it interesting that as somebody that has been a governor in the state, you know the law.
16:49A case is in court.
16:50And then you're coming to talk about the details of the cases in court.
16:54Because you denied that the case was not in court.
16:56Now you've already accepted that the case is in court.
16:58So, it's not just better you thrash it out with the woman that has been reporting her case in public that we all heard.
17:05And I ask you questions based on that.
17:06So, Minister, I just answered the questions.
17:08I've got no axe to grind with you.
17:10You know that.
17:11We've spoken many times.
17:12In fact, when your people call to book, I booked them.
17:15And I said you should come on air.
17:17So, please just tell us this information.
17:18It's very important, Minister.
17:29I'm not hearing.
17:30Even though this guy is...
17:32It's not...
17:33Nigerian Army Authority has issued a statement, denying threat messages issued against members of the public ahead of the plan mass protest slated for October 20, 2025 to demand for the release and freedom of the detained Biafra Republic agitation leader, Marzi Namdekanu, just as the organizer and chief campaigner, Omiyele Saware.
18:01The publisher of Sahara Reporters News Media met to seek understanding with the former president of Nigeria, Goodluck Abele Jonathan, who, according to Saware, promised to visit President Bola Ahmed Tanubu to discuss the issue with him.
18:15Nigerian Army, in a statement on Friday, said,
18:19The attention of the Nigerian Army, N.A., has been drawn to a misleading publication by Sahara reporters alleging that a Facebook page purportedly operated by military personnel issued veiled threats against certain individuals ahead of a planned October 20 protest.
18:35The report is not only false but a deliberate attempt to misinform the public and discredit the noble institution of the Nigerian Army.
18:44For the avoidance of doubt, the Nigerian Army has only two official social media handles, namely at HQNigerianArmy and at NigerianArmyInfo, which are duly verified on Facebook, X, formerly Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.
18:59Any other page or account outside these verified handles does not belong to the Nigerian Army and should be disregarded in its entirety.
19:09It is pertinent to state that certain civilians and online content creators now operate pages that post military related contents purely for the purpose of generating online traffic and monetary gain.
19:20Such pages have no affiliation whatsoever with the Nigerian Army, the N.A. therefore dissociates itself completely from any post, statement, or activity emanating from these unauthorized sources.
19:33The Nigerian Army remains a professional, disciplined and apolitical institution committed to the defense and unity of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
19:43In the discharge of its constitutional responsibilities, the N.A. continues to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, adherence to the rule of law, and respect for human rights.
19:55The general public and media practitioners are hereby enjoined to verify all information concerning the Nigerian Army only through its official platforms or the Directorate of Army Public Relations before publication or dissemination.
20:09The Nigerian Army therefore urges Sahara reporters and other media outlets to exercise due diligence in verifying the authenticity of their sources to avoid the spread of falsehood capable of misleading the public and undermining national security.
20:24Omiyele Sawari in a statement made available through his personal social media accounts on Friday, said that,
20:32Earlier today in Abuja, I met with former President Goodluck Jonathan to discuss the continued incarceration of Mazinamdi Karno.
20:41President Jonathan agreed that there is an urgent and compelling need to address this matter decisively and justly.
20:47I thank him sincerely for recognizing the importance of resolving Karno's case in the interest of peace, fairness, and national healing.
20:56Particularly assuring was that he promised to meet Asawadju Bola Ahmed Tanubu to discuss this issue as soon as possible.
21:04With this, former President Jonathan joins a growing list of Nigerians who have called for justice in Namdi Karno's case,
21:11a list that already includes ex-Vice President Atiku Abu Bakar, Femi Falana, San, Senator Shehu Sani, and many others across political and regional divides.
21:22Mazinamdi Karno remains in detention today because he took up the just cause of confronting the long-standing issue of marginalization in Nigeria.
21:32Like other ethnic and regional activists whose politically motivated cases have been withdrawn or dismissed,
21:38Namdi Karno should also be released without.
21:41Further delay, I once again call on all political, cultural, ethnic, and religious leaders across Nigeria to join this noble cause.
21:51In particular, I invite my brothers and sisters from the southeast,
21:55Mr. Peter Obi, Charles Chukumasoludo, Alex Ciotti, Francis Inwifuru, Peter Embar,
22:02Ho Puzodunma, Abiyageli Ezekwisili, John Mbata of Ohanese and Digbo Worldwide as well as Nigerians of Conscience Everywhere,
22:11to lend their voices to the call for justice and freedom.
22:14Namdi Karno should be set free, and I remain firmly committed to peacefully mobilizing for justice and freedom in this matter.
22:22On Thursday, Omiyele Sawari in a statement challenged the decision to set free and grant presidential state pardons to convicted individuals by
22:31President Bola Ahmed Tanubu without considering the release of Mazinamdi Karno.
22:36According to Sawari, today, President Bola Tanubu extended pardons to a long list of convicted individuals including a cocaine trafficker serving a life sentence,
22:47an alleged coup plotter, Mammon Vatsa, the late Namdi Ezekiewe and Herbert McCauley,
22:53and even Farouk Lawan, the former lawmaker convicted for taking bribes on tape.
22:58He also pardoned other known fraudsters and corrupt politicians.
23:02Yet, in all of this, Tanubu refuses to even consider the release of Mazinamdi Karno,
23:08who has been unjustly detained for years despite multiple court orders mandating his freedom.
23:13It is a glaring hypocrisy. Criminals and political thieves are forgiven, celebrated, and rehabilitated
23:20while a man demanding self-determination and justice remains behind bars and tossed around in courts with the pretense that somehow it is about law.
23:29Earlier, Sawari raised an alarm that
23:32the presidency is using DSS to contact and threaten politicians from the southeast,
23:37warning them not to endorse the Free Namdi Karno Now movement or participate in Free Namdi Karno Now,
23:44the planned march to Aso Rock Villa.
23:47They've contacted some names mentioned in my postings to gaslight them,
23:51claiming the protest was to foment chaos and violence.
23:54They're terrified.
23:56However, we move forward and cannot be stopped.
23:59President Bola Ahmed Talubu of Nigeria has accepted the resignation of the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology,
24:14Jeffrey Uche Naji, who had been accused of forging the degree certificate of the University of Nigeria,
24:20in Sukha and the Certificate of Completion of Service for the One-Year Mandatory National Youth Service Corps, NYSC,
24:28after he allegedly failed an exit course, virology, repeatedly at the university.
24:34Nigeria Presidency in a statement made available a few minutes ago by the Presidential Spokesperson,
24:40Bayo Onanuga, stated that,
24:42President Bola Ahmed Talubu has accepted the resignation of Jeffrey Uche Naji,
24:48the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, following some allegations against him.
24:54President Talubu appointed Naji in August 2023.
24:58He resigned today in a letter thanking the President for allowing him to serve Nigeria.
25:04Naji said he has been a target of blackmail by political opponents.
25:08President Talubu thanked him for his service and wished him well in future endeavours.
25:14Earlier, Nigeria's state-controlled media, NTA had reported that the
25:19Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Jeffrey Naji,
25:24has dismissed reports questioning his academic qualifications,
25:28describing him as politically motivated attempts to tarnish his image.
25:32The Minister has firmly defended the authenticity of his University of Nigeria,
25:37in Sukha degree.
25:39Speaking through his spokesperson, Dr. Robert NGWU,
25:44the Minister said records from UNN confirm he graduated in July 1985
25:49with a bachelor's degree in microbiology and biochemistry,
25:54second-class honours, lower division.
25:57He described recent reports denying his graduation as false, malicious,
26:01and politically driven, alleging that the controversy began after opposition figures
26:06took key positions within the university.
26:09Naji revealed that the Federal High Court in Abuja has issued protective orders
26:13restraining the university from tampering with his records and directing the release
26:18of his academic transcript.
26:20Reaffirming his focus on national service, the minister said no amount of political blackmail
26:26or media trial will distract him from advancing innovation and technology in Nigeria.
26:31He urged the University of Nigeria to uphold its motto,
26:36to restore the dignity of man, and resist being used for partisan purposes.
26:41In a swift reaction on Tuesday,
26:43Enugu state government denied sponsoring allegations of certificate forgery against the Minister of Innovation,
26:50Science, and Technology, Chief Uche Naji, urging him to carry his cross and clear his name
26:56before Nigerians.
26:58The government, in a press statement issued in Enugu on Monday by the Director of Information
27:04in the Ministry of Information and Communication, Mr. Chukwamekonebo,
27:08said it had no hand whatsoever in the controversies surrounding the minister's academic records.
27:14The Enugu state government dissociates itself completely from these allegations.
27:19The Honorable Minister must carry his own cross and clear his name before Nigerians,
27:24instead of dragging the government into issues that are entirely personal to him, Mr. Nebo declared.
27:31The Director of Information recalled that Chief Naji had invited journalists to a world press
27:36conference scheduled for Monday at 2pm to address the matter, but failed to show up.
27:42A large number of Nigerian and international journalists reportedly gathered on the minister's
27:47invitation to hear directly from him.
27:49But rather than appear before them to answer questions and establish his innocence,
27:54the minister absconded, leaving behind proxies who could not withstand the barrage of legitimate
28:00questions from journalists.
28:02Who can narrate Chief Naji's UNN story better than him?
28:06Why invite the media, only to outsource the conference?
28:10Why send third parties, who lack the, answers to critical questions, if he truly has nothing to hide?
28:17Mr. Nebo queried, did he, for his screening, present a purported degree certificate to the
28:24Senate showing that he graduated from the prestigious University of Nigeria, in Sukha, UNN, in July 1985?
28:32Is it true that he deposed in a federal high court filing in Abuja that he was not issued any
28:37degree certificate by UNN and, if so, how did he come about the degree certificate he presented
28:43to the Senate?
28:44Is it also true that while he claims to have graduated in July 1985, he applied to the
28:51university to retake virology, course code, MCB 431, in the September 1985 supplementary
28:59examination, having failed the course?
29:03Is it also true that the university, in a November 8, 1985 letter, informed Uche Naji that he again
29:10failed virology, course code, MCB 431, in the supplementary examinations, but could register
29:17to retake the course in the June 1986 examinations, provided he paid an examination fee of four
29:24nairas, four naira.
29:26Is it true that on January 3, 1986, he again applied to retake the virology, course code,
29:33MCB 431, examination in June 1986, stating in his letter that the receipt for the payment
29:41of the four nairas, four naira, recent fee had been attached?
29:46Is it true that while he claims to be in possession of a university degree, he only submitted his
29:52secondary school WASC certificate to the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, for his
29:59participation in the 2023 governorship election? Why did Uche Naji's proxy state at the Abuja press
30:06conference that the minister, graduated, while avoiding stating categorically that he was issued
30:12a degree certificate? Did he also present a purported NYSC discharge certificate showing that he commenced
30:19his national service in April 1985, three months before his supposed graduation, and served until July
30:261986, an unusual duration of 13 months instead of the usual 12 months of national service?
30:34Whereas the CEO of the NYSC at the time he claimed to have undergone the national service was Colonel
30:40Ede Akpen, January 1984 to December 1987, Uche Naji's NYSC discharge certificate was signed by Colonel
30:49Anima Sean Brimo, who was NYSC CEO from January 1988 to December 1990. Is it true that NYSC certificates
30:59issued up till October 1990 had six-digit numbering devoid of alphabetic characters, but Uche Naji's
31:06discharge certificate, supposedly issued in 1986, was numbered A231309, which includes the alphabet,
31:14A. And above all, is it a fact that he deposed to an affidavit in the suit he filed in court that
31:21UNN did not issue him any certificate? And if that is the case, Nigerians want to know how he came about
31:29the certificate he submitted to the Senate of his own free will in 2023. These are the clarifications
31:35Nigerians earnestly yearn for, and Chief Uche Naji is urged to brave up to clear his name,
31:41if he is truly innocent, rather than trading blames, Nebo stressed. Daily Post newspaper had reported
31:48that, an Abuja Federal High Court has rejected a bid by the Minister of Innovation, Science, and
31:55Technology, Uche Naji, to stop the University of Nigeria, in Sukha, UNN, from releasing his academic
32:02records. The Minister of Education, National Universities Commission, NUC, UNN, the University's
32:11Vice-Chancellor, its registrar and the Senate of the institution were listed as respondents in the
32:16suit. An application for interim injunction filed by the Minister's lawyer asked the court to restrain
32:22the respondents from acting on a request for release of his academic records. However, Justice House
32:29Yilwa turned down the application. The Minister had prayed the court for an order granting leave to
32:35the applicant to issue the prerogative writ of prohibition on the 3th, 2, 5th and the 7th respondents,
32:41the VC, registrar and Senate of the school, from tampering with or continuing to tamper with the
32:48applicant's academic records at UNN. The Minister also prayed for an order granting him leave to issue
32:55the prerogative writ of mandamus compelling the 3rd, 2, 5th and the 7th respondents to release to him
33:01his academic transcript at the varsity. Other reliefs sought include, an order granting leave to the
33:07applicant to issue the prerogative writ of mandamus compelling the 1st and 2nd respondents to ensure,
33:13utilizing their supervisory and disciplinary powers, that the 3rd, 2, 5th and the 7th respondents release
33:20to the applicant his academic transcript at the University of Nigeria, in Sukha. An interim order
33:26of injunction restraining the 3rd, 2, 5th and the 7th respondents from tampering or continuing to tamper
33:33with the applicant's academic records at the University of Nigeria, in Sukha, pending the determination of
33:39the substantive suit. In rejecting the application after listening to the counsel, the judge held,
33:45I have therefore perused the 34-paragraph affidavit and the 6-paragraph affidavit of urgency deposed to
33:52by the applicant, the grounds upon which this application is made, the exhibits attached there
33:57to and the further affidavit of 6 paragraphs deposed to by Martin Luther Acawi. I have equally considered
34:04the written address of counsel. I shall therefore refer to paragraphs 15, 16, 22, 23, 24, 25 and 29 of
34:15the affidavit in support of this application, exhibits 1, 2d and paragraphs 3, 4 and 5 of the
34:22further affidavit. I am of the humble view from the facts deposed in the affidavits, alongside the
34:28exhibits attached, that the applicant has sufficient interest in the matter to which this application
34:33relates. Thus, this application is meritorious. Consequently, I hereby grant prayer 1, 2 and 3 only.
34:42Prayer 4 is declined. Having been refused, the granting of reliefs 1, 2, 3 shall not serve as
34:49injunctive reliefs against any of the parties. UNN had disowned the minister's certificate in a
34:55letter addressed to Premium Times, written by the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Simon Orchulia.
35:02In the letter dated October 2, 2025, the university maintained that the minister did not complete his
35:08studies. We refer to your letter dated the 29th of September, 2025 in respect of the above subject
35:16matter. We can confirm that Mr. Jeffrey Uchechukunaji, with matriculation number 1,981-30,725,
35:27was admitted by the University of Nigeria, in Sukha in 1981. From every available records and information
35:35from the University of Nigeria, in Sukha, we are unable to confirm that Mr. Jeffrey Uchechukunaji,
35:42the current Minister of Science and Technology, graduated from the University of Nigeria in July
35:481985, as there are no records of his completion of study in the University of Nigeria, in Sukha.
35:56Flowing from above, the University of Nigeria, in Sukha did not and consequently, could not have issued the
36:02purported certificate, or at all, in July 1985 to Mr. Jeffrey Uchechukunaji, the current Minister of
36:10Science and Technology. This conclusion is also in consonance with an earlier letter dated May 13,
36:162025, reference number, RUN, SR, R, V, issued by the University to the Public Complaints Commission in
36:25respect of the same subject matter, copy-attached, Oshuania wrote.
36:36Princess Ola Torera Maje Kadunmi Aniru from Ogun State and a Commonwealth Award winner who is
36:42currently pursuing a Master Degree in Law has called on the Federal Government of Nigeria under the
36:48leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tanubu to immediately release the detained Biafra Republic
36:53Agitation leader, Marzi Namdi Kanu, stating in a statement personally signed and made available
36:59to media newsroom on Monday, that, 10 years of detention without conviction is a grave violation
37:06of the fundamental human rights of Marzi Namdi Kanu, specifically stated verbatim that, the continued
37:13detention of Mr. Kanu without conviction is not merely a legal anomaly. It is a profound failure of
37:20justice and a grave violation of his fundamental human rights. His prolonged detention exposes the
37:26widening gap between Nigeria's constitutional expectations and the daily realities of citizens.
37:32We must have a justice system that acts with both fairness and decisive strength, not one ensnared in
37:37endless procedural limbo and mired in public distrust. According to the Princess, across the span of a
37:44decade, Marzi Namdi Kanu has endured one of the longest and most troubling pre-trial detentions in
37:50Nigeria's history. Arrested in 2015, accused, pleading not guilty, and never convicted, he remains confined in
37:59a blatant defiance of the most fundamental human rights principles. Where is justice when a man stands
38:06unconvicted for 10 years, while those charged with upholding justice remain silent? The continued
38:12detention of Mr. Kanu without conviction is not merely a legal anomaly. It is a profound failure of
38:19justice and a grave violation of his fundamental human rights. His prolonged detention exposes the
38:25widening gap between Nigeria's constitutional expectations and the daily realities of citizens.
38:31We must have a justice system that acts with both fairness and decisive strength, not one ensnared in
38:37endless procedural limbo and mired in public distrust. No charge, however grave, should ever eclipse the
38:45principle that every individual is presumed innocent until proven guilty. That principle is the very
38:51cornerstone of law and must never be broken, regardless of who holds power. As we call for Marzi Namdi Kanu's
38:58immediate and unconditional freedom, my heart goes out to millions of Nigerians, across tribal lines,
39:05generations, and economic classes, from Borno to Quarata Lagos, crying out for help against armed
39:12violence, forced displacement, demolitions, unlawful detentions, untimely deaths, and the persistent
39:18scarcity of life's most basic necessities. Beyond politics, every life matters. Marzi Namdi Kanu's health and
39:26spirit are at grave risk, after ten years behind bars without a proven crime. This declaration is an
39:33urgent proclamation. We will count every second, every hour, every day, and continue to galvanize
39:40until Marzi Namdi Kanu is restored to his rightful freedom. Nigeria now stands at a cross of roads,
39:48where history will judge the true motives of those in power. The eyes of the world are watching,
39:53and the conscience of the nation is restless. The promise of our democracy depends not only on acts
39:59of courage within the halls of power but also on the bold, united actions of citizens.
40:05About Marzi Namdi Kanu, Marzi Namdi Kanu, born in Isiyama Afara, Abia State, Nigeria, is a Nigerian-born
40:14British citizen and leader of the indigenous people of Biafra, IPOB. He has long advocated
40:21peacefully for the recognition and protection of the political, economic, and cultural rights
40:26of citizens of Nigeria's southeast. He has never been convicted of any crime, nor accused
40:32of any act of violence. His prolonged detention, despite serious legal questions surrounding his
40:39rendition and years of unbroken pre-trial custody, remains a striking violation of due process and a
40:45challenge to Nigeria's constitutional and humanitarian commitments, Princess Ola Torera-Majay Kadunmi Aniru
40:53stated. Princess Ola Torera-Majay Kadunmi Aniru, as stated in her website, is a transformational
41:00executive with over two decades of achievements across finance, technology, and global trade.
41:06She has driven strategic growth for multinational organizations and entrepreneurially. An incorruptible
41:13force for visionary progress, she remains steadfast in her commitment to elevating living standards
41:19and ensuring that no citizen is left behind. Ola Torera earned her MBA from Emory University
41:25with merit scholarships and completed executive leadership programs at the Harvard Kennedy School,
41:31Women and Power, Stockholm School of Economics, Financial Modeling and Innovation
41:36and IMD Switzerland, Leadership. She is currently pursuing a Master's in Law and a Doctorate in
41:42Leadership, Ed. Her work has earned numerous accolades, including the World Leadership Congress
41:49Award, Commonwealth Award, His Royal Majesty Uni Royal Award and Queen Maremi Leadership Award.
41:56She has delivered keynote addresses at global forums such as the Economist Growth Crossings,
42:01Women in Leadership Dubai, Women in Leadership Dubai, the Toronto Global Economic Forum, Africa
42:05Ecom and Youth Connect.
42:07Volodymyr Zelensky, the President of Ukraine may have given a clearer picture on how some companies
42:20are apparently aiding and making more money from the ongoing war in his country Ukraine, saying,
42:25since the start of the war four years ago, some unnamed companies in the United States,
42:31US, United Kingdom, UK, China, Germany, Taiwan, Switzerland, Japan, Korea Republic, Netherlands are
42:40producing components, Russia under President Vladimir Putin is using to produce weapons of mass
42:47destruction, to kill his people, this, Zelensky in his own words said on Monday that,
42:53In the fourth year of the full-scale war, Russia continues to obtain components for producing
42:58weapons. During the massive combined strike on Ukraine on the night of October 5, Russia used
43:04549 weapon systems containing 102,785 foreign-made components, from companies in the United States,
43:16China and Taiwan, the United Kingdom, Germany, Switzerland, Japan, the Republic of Korea,
43:22and the Netherlands, nearly 100,688 of foreign-made parts were in the launched attack drones,
43:30about 1,500 were in Iskandas, 192 in Kinzel missiles, and 405 in Calibers.
43:39Zelensky stated this in a statement made available through his personal social media profile on Monday,
43:45after about 30 people were injured as a result of the Russian attack on a moving passenger train,
43:51killing one person in Shostka district of Ukraine on Saturday. According to Zelensky, Ukraine is
43:58preparing new sanctions against those who help Russia and its war, and we have communicated
44:03proposals to curb the supply schemes. Partners already possess the detailed data on each company
44:09and each product. They know what to target and how to respond. This week, the G7 sanctions
44:15coordinators will meet, and we expect a systemic decision to ensure that the sanctions are truly
44:21effective. It is crucial to shut down every scheme that circumvents sanctions, because Russia uses
44:27each one to keep killing. The world has the power to stop this. In the fourth year of the full-scale war,
44:35Russia continues to obtain components for producing weapons. During the massive combined strike on Ukraine
44:41on the night of October 5, Russia used 549 weapon systems containing 102,785 foreign-made components,
44:52from companies in the United States, China and Taiwan, the United Kingdom, Germany, Switzerland,
44:59Japan, the Republic of Korea, and the Netherlands. Nearly 100,688 of foreign-made parts were in the
45:07launched attack drones, about 1,500 were in Iskandas, 192 in Kinzel missiles, and 405 in Calibers.
45:17In particular, companies in the United States manufacture converters for KH-101 missiles and
45:24Shard, Iran-type drones, sensors for those UAVs and for Kinzel missiles, analog to digital converters
45:31for drones and missiles, and microelectronics for missiles. At least 50 different microelectronic
45:38components in each Shard are produced in China and Taiwan. Microcontrollers for UAVs are made in
45:45Switzerland, while microcomputers for drone flight control are produced in the United Kingdom.
45:51Opto-isolators for cruise missiles come from Japan, switching connectors from Germany.
45:56Russia also uses processes manufactured in the Netherlands and servomotors and bearings made
46:02in the Republic of Korea. In a separate statement, Zelensky said, since the start of the full-scale
46:09invasion, the capacity of Ukraine's defense industry has increased by tenfold. Our production potential
46:16for drones and missiles alone will reach $35 billion next year. Already over 40% of the weapons in use at
46:24the front are either made in Ukraine or produced with Ukraine. And the share of our weapons will
46:30only grow. The task for manufacturers, for the government of Ukraine, for all institutions
46:36involved is that by the end of the year no less than 50% of the weapons at the front must be our
46:41Ukrainian weapons, and this task must be accomplished. We need funding to unleash our full potential and
46:49we are working with every partner who can help make this possible. It is time to start exporting
46:54our Ukrainian weapons, those types we have in surplus and can therefore export, to finance
47:00the types of weapons that are especially needed for our defense. I have already instructed the
47:06government, the office, and the Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine to
47:11develop and present the key elements of such an export system. The working title of this program is,
47:18Zabroya, our export product. Agreements are already in place to launch export-import platforms in
47:25Europe, the United States, and the Middle East. The task is to have these platforms operational by
47:31the end of the year. I said this during the International Defense Industries Forum, which we are opening for
47:38the third time in Ukraine today. On the recent attack in Shostka area of Ukraine, Zelensky said,
47:45Russia ignores or rebuffs literally every opportunity to end the war and guarantee security. Putin wants
47:52to wage it, and do it by terrorist, despicable methods. Russia must feel the consequences.
47:59Europe, America, the G-7, and the G-20 have the power to deal with any terrorist. A savage Russian drone
48:06strike on the railway station in Shostka, Sumi region. All emergency services are already on the scene
48:14and have begun helping people. All information about the injured is being established. So far,
48:20we know of at least 30 victims. Preliminary reports indicate that both Ucht's leisnitsche staff and
48:26passengers were at the site of the strike. The Russians could not have been unaware that they
48:31were striking civilians. And this is terror the world must not ignore. Every day Russia takes people's
48:38lives. And only strength can make them stop. We've heard resolute statements from Europe and America.
48:44And it's high time to turn them all into reality, together with everyone who refuses to accept
48:50murder and terror as normal. Lift service is not enough now. Strong action is needed.
48:56Andriy Siverher, Ukraine minister of foreign affairs, also said that the attacks were targeted
49:02and deliberate Russian drone strikes on passenger trains in Shostka, Sumi region. Not one, but two
49:09strikes one after another. This is one of the most barbaric Russian tactics. The so-called, double
49:16tap, with the second attack hitting rescuers and people who are evacuating. Russian terrorists must
49:22get strong responses for this deliberate and brutal terror against civilians. Words are not enough.
49:28New devastating sanctions. New strengthening for Ukraine. This can be done and must be done to raise
49:35the cost of this war for Russia. Putin must feel the danger of continuing this war personally for
49:41him and his regime. Jan Lipivsky, Czech minister of foreign affairs while reacting to the attack in
49:47the Shostka community, said, While we are voting on Czechia's security, Russia keeps showing the world
49:53its true face. The attack on the train running from Shostka to Kiev is yet another proof of its barbarity
50:00and state terrorism orchestrated by the Kremlin. My thoughts are with all those injured and their
50:06loved ones. But, Viktor Viktor, a commentator, in his analysis, said that, Zelensky claimed that Russia
50:13allegedly targeted a passenger train at the Shostka railway station. There is video of the strike,
50:20but upon closer inspection, there was no mention of any passengers. The footage shows the strike hitting
50:26a diesel locomotive and a freight train loaded with containers immediately behind it, video 1.
50:33It looks like a typical military train. There are no, pure, passenger trains. Yes,
50:39one car looks similar, but the rest of the train is filled with containers, photo 1. Most likely,
50:46this single, passenger, train was used to protect the cargo. A common practice when military transport
50:53is disguised as civilian. Now let's look at the schedule. No passenger trains departed from Shostka
50:59today. The last train was on October 3rd, and the next one won't be until the 5th. So it's logical to
51:06assume that there simply couldn't have been any peaceful passengers there. The free movement of military
51:12cargo across Ukraine has ended. Russia has finally started doing what it's supposed to do.
51:17Osters who are on level bringing youth to news in a more digital way. Osters who are on level
51:26bringing youth to news in a more digital way.
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