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Olumide Akpata Settles For Politics Without Bitterness, Unfolds New Focus

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Olumide Osaigbovo Akpata, the Candidate of the Labour Party, Edo 2024 Election, has resolved not to challenge the recent election
results before the election petitions tribunal, preempting negative outcomes.

Akpata also dismissed as falses, the swirling rumours and whispered insinuations that he has some sort of secret or backroom alliance with the All Progressives Congress (APC).

“I want to be crystal clear: these allegations are not just false; they are a malicious attempt to tarnish my reputation and the principles I stand for.


These rumours are not just an attack on me but on the collective aspirations of every Edo citizen yearning for genuine change,” he said.

The Nigerian Bar Association’s President says he is redirecting his energies and resources toward grassroots mobilisation and advocacy for electoral reform including rebirth of democracy in Edo State and Nigeria

In a message to his supporters and other key stakeholders,  Akpata,  says: ” After extensive deliberations with my legal team and key stakeholders, I have made the decision not to challenge the recent election results before the tribunal.


This choice, borne out of deep reflection and rigorous analysis, transcends mere political calculation.


It is a statement on the state of our democracy and a clarion call for all who cherish the principles of free and fair elections.

As a legal practitioner with over three decades of experience, alongside my deputy, a distinguished Senior Advocate of Nigeria, we have scrutinised every facet of this election.

Our conclusion, reached after we had consulted with some of the nation’s finest legal minds, is not just about the outcome of a single election but about the very foundations of our democratic process.

The irregularities that marred this election – from brazen vote-buying to questionable collation procedures – are symptomatic of a deeper malaise afflicting our electoral system.

These are not mere technical infractions but fundamental breaches of the social contract between the government and
the governed.

My decision not to approach the tribunal is not a capitulation to injustice but
a resolute stand against a flawed system.
I choose to rise above the quagmire
of protracted legal battles that sometimes serve to legitimise a fundamentally
compromised process.

Instead, I commit myself to the arduous but necessary task of systemic reform.


Our fight transcends the confines of a courtroom; it is a battle for the very soul of our democracy.

The stark reality we face is this: Nigeria’s electoral adjudication framework has
become a labyrinth where justice is often lost to technicalities.

The burden of proof placed on petitioners is not just high; it is often insurmountable. Moreover, the custodianship of crucial electoral materials by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), which is itself a necessary party and defendant in election petitions, presents practical challenges in building a compelling case within stipulated time frames.

These factors, combined with my vision for a more robust democratic framework, have informed my strategic decision to focus on grassroots mobilisation and advocacy for electoral reform.”

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Governor Soludo Congratulates Muslim community in Anambra State and across Nigeria

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Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo has congratulated the Muslim community in Anambra State and across Nigeria on the celebration of this year’s Eid Kabir (Eid al-Adha).

Governor Soludo expressed his goodwill while recognising the profound significance of the holy festival for Muslims, which commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s devout faith and obedience to Allah’s command.

The Governor said the celebration reminds everyone of the virtues of sacrifice, devotion, and submission to divine will that transcend religious boundaries and speak to our common humanity.

He acknowledges the valuable contributions of the Muslim brothers and sisters to the socio-economic development of Anambra State, noting that the peaceful co-existence of people of different faiths in the state remains a source of pride and a tribute to the shared values of tolerance, respect, and unity.

Soludo said: “As we celebrate this festival of sacrifice and feasting, the Governor calls upon all Nigerians to reflect on the lessons of Eid Kabir, particularly the importance of selflessness, compassion for the less privileged, and devotion to the common good, values that align perfectly with our administration’s commitment to building a prosperous, inclusive, and harmonious society”.

The Governor wishes all Muslim faithful in Anambra State and Nigeria a joyous and blessed Eid Kabir celebration, filled with peace, prosperity, spiritual fulfillment and renewed  commitment to a better society for all.

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JUST IN: Former Chief Justice, Mohammed Lawal Uwais dies at 89

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Nigeria’s former Chief Justice, Justice Mohammed Lawal Uwais has died at the age of 89.

Recall that Uwais was born on June 12, 1936, in Zaria, Kaduna State, and served as Chief Justice of Nigeria from 1995 to 2006.

He was widely respected for his steadfast commitment to judicial reform and the protection of judicial independence throughout his tenure.

The family confirmed his passing in a brief statement today, saying: “Inna Lillahi Wa Inna Ilaihir Rajiun. With hearts heavy yet full of gratitude to Allah Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala, we announce the passing of our beloved father, Justice Mohammed Lawal Uwais, former Chief Justice of the Federation.

”According to the statement, funeral rites were scheduled to take place immediately after Juma’at prayers today at the National Mosque in Abuja.

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Sallah: President Tinubu’s felicitation message to Muslims on Eid-el-Kabir (Full Text)

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President Bola Tinubu has on Thursday called on Nigerians to be patient with his administration’s reforms, assuring that “the toughest days are behind us.”

Tinubu gave the assurance in his message to mark the 2025 Eid-el-Kabir celebration.He insisted that his economic reforms had already started yielding positive results even though the journey had not been easy.

Read full message below:

“I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Nigerian Muslims and the global Muslim Ummah as we celebrate this year’s Eid-el-Kabir.

Eid-el-Kabir represents the high point of the sacred first ten days of Dhul Hijjah, a period filled with opportunities for acts of worship and good deeds. It is a time for gratitude to Almighty Allah for His countless mercies upon us as individuals and a nation.

While this festival is marked with joy and celebration, its true significance lies much deeper: Eid calls us to reflect on its core values of sacrifice, devotion, and selflessness.

To truly honour Eid, we must embody these virtues, just as Prophet Ibrahim (AS) exemplified complete submission to Allah’s will and as our Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) has taught us. Let this sacred occasion renew our commitment to these ideals.

Eid-el-Kabir also reminds us of our responsibilities beyond faith: to show resilience, tolerance, compassion, and dedication to the progress of our beloved country.

I reaffirm my commitment to these values and express my deep appreciation for the faith, patience, and perseverance Nigerians show as we implement bold reforms.

Together, we have weathered challenging times and are approaching a brighter horizon.

Though the journey has not been easy, and some doubted our direction, the resilience of public and private sector leaders, along with the steadfast support of most Nigerians, is yielding results.

I assure you that the toughest days are behind us. We are entering a new era of renewed hope and prosperity that we promised two years ago.

We may not yet be where we aspire to be, but I urge all Nigerians not to lose hope. Let us hold on to our faith and persevere. Our reforms are gaining traction, with key economic indicators now moving in a positive direction.

Soon, all will feel the benefits.

The ultimate objective of these reforms is not just to improve statistics but to transform lives and set Nigeria firmly on the path to sustainable development.

There are no quick fixes, but we are committed to repairing the foundations of our economy once and for all.

Our administration will continue acting in the nation’s best interest, ensuring that the gains we are recording translate into improving people’s lives.

We crafted our Renewed Hope Agenda to bring prosperity to every Nigerian, and we remain steadfast in our pursuit of it.

As we celebrate today, remember that Eid-el-Kabir enjoins love, compassion, and generosity for all, regardless of faith or background. Let us care for one another’s well-being during this season and always.

In this instance, I recall recent sad developments in our country, particularly the Wednesday, May 28 heavy flooding, which submerged the market town of Mokwa, Niger State, causing deaths and destruction of properties and creating an untold humanitarian crisis.

Let us pray for the repose of the souls of those who lost their lives and fortitude for their relations. Let us join hands with the government to bring succour to the people of Mokwa.

Finally, as we observe this Eid, let us continue our prayers for our front-line officers, who risk their lives for our safety and security.

Let us pray for our leaders at all levels and our country. Let us pray for peace in our tumultuous world of troubles and uncertainties.

Let us dedicate this sacred celebration to seeking God’s guidance and blessings for our country.

May those who have more remember those in need, sharing kindness and support as true brothers and sisters. Let the virtues of perseverance, sacrifice, loyalty, faith, and shared humanity bind us closer.

May the joy and blessings of Eid-ul-Adha multiply in our lives and the life of our great nation.

May Almighty Allah accept our worship and devotion as acts of Ibadah, and may His blessings be with us always.

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