By Ejike Abana, ABS Awka

A commission of inquiry constituted by the Anambra State Government has affirmed Chief Gibson Nwosu as the lawful traditional ruler of Awka, bringing fresh clarity to a protracted leadership crisis that has polarised the community and raised concerns about the integrity of customary governance processes.

The panel, chaired by retired Justice Paul Obidigwe, submitted its report to Governor Chukwuma Soludo after weeks of sittings marked by detailed submissions and testimonies. In all, the commission received 32 memoranda and heard 28 oral testimonies from stakeholders, including kingmakers, community leaders, and other interested parties.

Presenting the report, Mr Obidigwe said the panel found no lawful basis for the purported dethronement of Igwe Nwosu. According to him, the process fell short of the requirements of due process and breached the principle of fair hearing, rendering the action “unlawful, invalid, and of no legal effect.”

The commission further determined that the emergence of Chief Austin Ndigwe as a rival claimant to the stool did not comply with laid-down procedures. It held that both his selection and enthronement contravened statutory provisions guiding the appointment of traditional rulers in the state, thereby stripping his claim of legitimacy.

Mr Obidigwe described the crisis as not only a local dispute but also “an affront to constituted authority,” warning that disregard for established legal frameworks in traditional institutions could undermine public order and governance.

Background to the dispute

The Awka traditional stool tussle has lingered for months, with factions within the community divided over the legitimacy of the existing leadership structure. Attempts at internal reconciliation reportedly failed, prompting appeals to the state government to intervene.

The dispute reflects broader tensions often associated with succession processes in traditional institutions, where customary practices intersect with statutory regulations. In Anambra, as in many parts of Nigeria, the recognition of traditional rulers is subject to both community customs and state laws, creating potential flashpoints when procedures are contested.

Government response and next steps

Receiving the report, Governor Soludo said the state government would subject the findings to careful review and subsequently issue a White Paper to determine the official position and outline actionable steps.

Mr Soludo recalled that the government had initially refrained from вмешment, allowing the Awka community space to resolve the matter internally. However, he said the state stepped in after it became evident that local mechanisms had failed to produce a consensus.

He reiterated his administration’s commitment to upholding the rule of law, stressing that Anambra must remain a state where legal frameworks guide both formal governance and traditional institutions.

The governor also sent a broader signal to communities across the state, warning against situations where multiple individuals claim the same traditional stool.

“No community will be allowed to have more than one traditional ruler,” he said, adding that the government’s intervention was not intended to create winners or losers but to restore order and legality.

“There is no victor and no vanquished,” the governor stated, urging all parties to embrace reconciliation in the interest of peace and communal development.

The Kaduna state government has compensated the residents of
Malali Low-Cost, whose houses were demolished by the administration of Nasir
el-Rufai, with new plots of land.

Bashir Garba Ibrahim, director general of Kaduna Geographic
Information Service (KADGIS), who presented the land titles to the
beneficiaries, said that the gesture was aimed at fulfilling Uba Sani
administration’s commitment to ensure justice for the victims.

He said the compensation with the land titles is the outcome
of a stakeholders meeting, which took place on January 21, and resolved to
investigate the circumstances around the demolition.

While counselling against reselling the plots of land,
Ibrahim advised the beneficiaries to develop the land quickly.

“We want you to become homeowners and contribute to the
growth of our state,” he said.

While responding to the gesture of the state government on
behalf of the beneficiaries, Mohammed Auwal, chairman of the former Malali
Low-Cost residents, expressed gratitude to the governor for addressing their
concerns.

Auwal appreciated the director-general for facilitating the
new land allocation after years of struggle to get compensation.

The Kaduna State Development and Property Company (KSDPC)
had given the residents of Malali Low-Cost a seven-day notice to evict the
community in October 2020.

Although residents protested the short notice and the need
to give them the right of first refusal, the decision was shelved at the time.

However, in March 2021, another three-day notice was served
to the residents, and after the expiration of the notice, more than 80
structures were demolished.

Aprokorepublic

Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, former first lady of Ondo state,
says she has joined the Labour Party (LP) in Imo state.

In a Facebook post shared on
Tuesday, Anyanwu-Akeredolu said she attended the national executive council
(NEC) and stakeholders meeting of the party in Abuja, the nation’s capital,
after joining the LP in Imo state.

She said the meeting, held on March 17, was well attended,
adding that the venue could barely accommodate the number of participants.

Anyanwu-Akeredolu commended the party for its organisational
structure across different levels.

“I wish to commend the Labour Party for the well-structured
outline of positions across State, LGA and Ward levels,” she said.

“It reflects seriousness about inclusiveness and internal
democracy. I must particularly highlight the inclusion of the position of
Deputy Chairman (Female).

“This is a bold and intentional step in a political
environment that has historically confined women to the role of Woman Leader —
often a token position without real influence.

“This provision signals that women are not just
participants, but decision-makers. I urge women across the country to seize
this opportunity.”

Anyanwu-Akeredolu also praised the leadership of Nenadi
Usman, national chairman of the LP.

“Importantly, we must recognize the historic moment we are
in. The Labour Party today is led by a woman — Senator Nenadi Usman,” she said.

“For the first time, a major political party in Nigeria is
under female leadership. This is not just symbolic — it is transformational.
For me, it is exhilarating.

“It provides evidence to our daughters that women can lead
at the highest levels. The psychological impact of this cannot be overstated.
It is a wake-up call for women and girls to be more and do more.”

She called on Nigerian women to join the party in large
numbers.

“I therefore call on Nigerian women who believe that they
matter in the scheme of things in this country to join the Labour Party in
great numbers — for themselves, and for their children,” she said.

“Women are natural nurturers. That instinct, when translated
into leadership, can drive compassionate, people-centered governance — exactly
what Nigeria needs at this time.”

Anyanwu-Akeredolu also suggested the inclusion of a female
child in the party logo.

“Finally, I draw attention to our party logo — Papa, Mama,
Pikin. While powerful, the depiction of the child as male reflects a bias we
must correct,” she said.

“I recommend the inclusion of a female child in the logo to
send a clear message of equality. Let Labour Party lead this change —
structurally, symbolically, and culturally.”

Anyanwu-Akeredolu added that she is aspiring to represent
Imo east senatorial district in the 2027 election.

She previously sought the Imo east senatorial ticket of the
All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2023 elections but withdrew from
the party’s primary, citing irregularities in the process.

Aprokorepublic

The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has
officially declared Friday, March 20, 2026, the day of Eid-El-Fitr.

He made this announcement on Wednesday evening, stating that
the Shawwal crescent moon was not sighted in Nigeria.

Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic month of
fasting, and is widely observed by Muslims across the world with prayers and
feasting.

Recall that this declaration aligns with the announcement
from Saudi Arabian authorities, who also confirmed that the crescent moon
marking the beginning of Shawwal was not sighted on Wednesday, setting Friday
as the date for the celebration.

Aprokorepublic

The Enugu State Police Command has assured residents of adequate security arrangements ahead of the 2026 Eid-el-Fitr celebration, announcing the deployment of personnel and operational assets across the state.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Police Public Relations Officer, Daniel Ndukwe, said the Commissioner of Police in the state, Mamman Bitrus Giwa, extended greetings to Muslim faithful on the successful completion of Ramadan, while urging them to uphold the values of peace, tolerance, and sacrifice associated with the season.

Mr Ndukwe said the commissioner had ordered a “strategic deployment” of officers, intelligence resources, and other operational assets to ensure a peaceful celebration.

He noted that security presence would be intensified at prayer grounds, recreational centres, and other public places, alongside increased patrols across the state.

According to him, the commissioner also directed Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers, and heads of tactical units to ensure effective supervision of security operations and strengthen collaboration with other security agencies.

“The command remains committed to the protection of lives and property,” the statement said, urging residents to remain law-abiding, vigilant, and to promptly report any suspicious activities to the police through designated emergency lines.

The police also called for continued public cooperation to sustain peace and security during and after the festivities.

Supporters of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) held a large-scale demonstration across central London on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, coinciding with Nigerian President Bola Tinubu’s historic two-day state visit to the United Kingdom.

The protest, organized by the IPOB UK chapter and described as a “mega protest,” ran from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM. Demonstrators gathered at symbolic locations including Parliament Square, 10 Downing Street, the Commonwealth Office, and the Nigerian High Commission.

Carrying placards reading “Free Mazi Nnamdi Kanu” and “Release MNK Now,” many participants wore red caps and waved Biafran flags, a horizontal tricolour of red, black, and green featuring a golden rising sun in the centre.

The group demanded the immediate and unconditional release of their detained leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, who has been in Nigerian custody since his 2021 extradition from Kenya.

Additional calls included a referendum on Biafran self-determination, an end to what they described as bad governance in Nigeria, and strong opposition to any royal honours or reception for President Tinubu during his visit, hosted by King Charles III and Queen Camilla at Windsor Castle.

In circulating video footage from the event, one protester declared: “Our message is very clear: Tinubu does not deserve a royal salute. That is our stand today, being the 18th of March.” Other clips featured chants and statements labelling the president as undeserving of royal recognition, amid accusations of presiding over repression and injustice.

The demonstration was billed as peaceful, with organizers inviting “all lovers of freedom, justice, and human rights” to participate. It highlighted ongoing frustrations within pro-Biafra circles over Kanu’s detention, despite court rulings and international advocacy for his release.

President Tinubu’s visit marks the first Nigerian state visit to the UK in 37 years and aims to strengthen bilateral ties, economic diplomacy, and cooperation.

Aprokorepublic

The Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, has invited the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to investigate all contracts and ongoing projects under the ministry to ensure transparency.

Speaking at a media briefing at the ministry’s Abuja headquarters on Wednesday, Umahi said relevant procurement rules were strictly followed from tendering to project execution and that the ministry has nothing to hide.

He explained that the ICPC’s preliminary report is ready, while the EFCC’s findings are awaited following its ongoing work summit.

“We are not hiding anything because we feel for the people. Any file they want, any information, is available. That is how it should be,” Umahi said. “There is nothing we do in the Ministry of Works that we cannot defend. We moved from asphalt to concrete to ensure roads last up to 100 years with minimal maintenance.”

The minister urged journalists to verify information before reporting, noting that roads cut or incomplete impede movement and affect citizens’ daily lives.

Umahi also praised President Bola Tinubu for prioritizing infrastructure and reaffirmed that all ministry projects follow due process and can withstand scrutiny at any time.

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Ahead of the 2027 general elections, six Lagos State government commissioners, special advisers, and senior aides to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu have announced plans to resign to pursue political positions.

The officials, all aspiring under the All Progressives Congress (APC) platform, intend to contest for seats in the House of Representatives and Lagos State House of Assembly in their respective constituencies during primaries scheduled between April 23 and May 30, 2026.

Those who have publicly declared their ambitions include:

Mr. Kayode Roberts, Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development – contesting Ojo Federal Constituency

Sola Giwa, Special Adviser on Transportation – Lagos Island II Federal Constituency

Barr. (Mrs) Barakat Odunuga-Bakare, Special Adviser on Housing – Surulere I House of Assembly

Babajide Obanikoro, Special Adviser on Parastatals Monitoring – Lagos Island I Federal Constituency

Mr. Lekan Balogun, Special Adviser on Economic Planning and Budget – Apapa Federal Constituency

Damilola Ayinde-Marshal, Senior Special Assistant on Tourism – Surulere II House of Assembly

A source confirmed that posters promoting their candidacies have already been displayed across strategic locations in their constituencies. Other cabinet and non-cabinet members are expected to declare their intentions in the coming days.

The aspirants have strong political pedigrees. Roberts, popularly known as “Bibire,” is a former Oto-Awori LCDA chairman. Giwa is a former Lagos State House of Assembly member and pioneer manager of LASTMA. Obanikoro previously represented Eti-Osa in the House of Representatives. Balogun is the son of a former APC chairman in Lagos, Odunuga-Bakare is a lawyer and political loyalist to Femi Gbajabiamila, and Ayinde-Marshal, daughter of Fuji musician KWAM I, recently announced her candidacy on Instagram.

The resignations follow President Bola Tinubu’s directive that all political appointees intending to contest in the 2027 elections must step down by March 31, 2026, to comply with the Electoral Act and ensure a level playing field.

Aprokorepublic

The Federal High Court sitting in Warri, Delta State, has ruled that Nigerians have the constitutional right to record police officers while performing their duties in public, in a judgement seen as a boost for accountability and civil liberties.

Delivering the ruling on Tuesday in suit No. FHC/WR/CS/87/2025 obtained by Premium Times, Justice H. A. Nganjiwa held that police officers must wear visible name tags, display their force numbers, and refrain from harassing, intimidating, arresting, or confiscating devices from citizens recording their activities.

The court also awarded the applicant, Maxwell Uwaifo, N5 million in damages for the violation of his fundamental rights, alongside N2 million as cost of litigation.

All the reliefs sought by the applicant were granted, reinforcing the right of citizens to document police conduct in public spaces without fear of reprisal.

Reacting to the judgement, Uwaifo described it as far-reaching.

“This judgement has significant implications for policing standards, civil liberties and public accountability across Nigeria,” he said in a statement to Premium Times.

“The court made far-reaching pronouncements on police accountability and citizens’ constitutional rights.”

The suit, filed as a public interest litigation, challenged the legality of police stop-and-search operations carried out without officers displaying proper identification.

Respondents in the case included the Nigeria Police Force, the Police Service Commission, the Inspector-General of Police, and the Attorney-General of the Federation.

Filed under the Fundamental Rights (Enforcement Procedure) Rules, 2009, the action cited several provisions of the 1999 Constitution, including Sections 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 41 and 46, as well as relevant articles of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.

In the originating summons, the applicant asked the court to determine whether citizens can lawfully record police officers and whether harassment or arrest for such actions amounts to a violation of fundamental rights.

Source: Vanguard