the unfiltered thought

Facebook page @  theunfilteredthought President Bola Tinubu has declared a state of emergency in Rivers State amid ongoing political instability. In a nationwide broadcast on Tuesday, Tinubu announced the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and all members of the state House of Assembly for an initial period of six months. The president cited Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) as the legal basis for his decision, stating that the governor and his deputy had failed to request a proclamation as required under Section 305(5). "Having soberly reflected on and evaluated the political situation in Rivers State, and given the failure of the Governor and Deputy Governor to request this proclamation, it has become inevitably compelling for me to invoke the provision of Section 305 of the Constitution to declare a state of emergency in Rivers State with effect from today, 18th March 2025, and I so do," Tinubu declared. The decision...

You join our Facebook group  theunfilteredthought  so that you will not miss any update from us Civil servants in Rivers State, alongside the Rivers Solidarity for Good Governance, have issued a stern ultimatum to the Rivers State House of Assembly, demanding that it immediately receive the 2025 budget from the executive arm by Wednesday, March 19, 2025. Mounting Frustration Over Delays At a media briefing in Port Harcourt, Opu-Oyibo Lilly-West, who led the coalition, strongly criticized the Assembly for deliberately stalling the budget process, leaving thousands of workers, market traders, and residents in economic limbo. > “Your blatant disregard for the urgent needs of our state has placed critical contracts and salaries at risk. By choosing spectacle over service, you have endangered the future of our public institutions and betrayed the trust of every citizen,” Lilly-West stated. A Warning of Mass Protests The coalition insists that their demand...

Join our Facebook group  theunfilteredthought  so you will not miss anything   The Rivers State House of Assembly has initiated proceedings against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy over alleged misconduct. A notice issued by the Assembly on Monday confirms that lawmakers are acting in line with Section 188 of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution (as amended). Possible Impeachment Looms This move fuels speculation that Governor Fubara could face impeachment, especially following a recent Supreme Court ruling that recognized 27 lawmakers loyal to former Governor Nyesom Wike, who is now the Minister of the FCT. Wike’s Stand on the Matter Former Governor Wike has openly stated that if Fubara is guilty of any impeachable offense, due process should take its course. Speaking last week, he said: "Politics is not child’s play. If he deserves impeachment, let them proceed. It’s not a criminal offense." What Happens Next? With tensions rising, all eyes are on the Assemb...

Follows us on Facebook @  theunfilteredthought The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has revoked 4,794 land titles due to non-payment of ground rent for over 40 years. Additionally, 8,375 property owners in key areas like Central Area, Garki I & II, Wuse I & II, Asokoro, Maitama, and Guzape have failed to meet their obligations for the past 43 years. The decision was announced in a press briefing by Lere Olayinka, Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, and Chijioke Nwankwoeze, Director of Lands at the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA). Repeated Warnings Ignored According to the FCTA, multiple announcements were made in national newspapers and broadcast media since 2023, urging defaulters to pay outstanding dues. However, many allottees failed to comply. Legal Basis for Revocation Under existing laws, landowners in the FCT must pay ground rent annually, due on January 1st each year. The revocation fo...

The Nigerian Senate has dismissed claims by suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan that there are plans to arrest her upon her return from the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) event in New York. In a press statement on Monday, Senate Spokesman Adeyemi Adaramodu refuted the allegations, stating that Senate President Godswill Akpabio and the Senate have no reason to engage with Akpoti-Uduaghan on the matter. “She’s searching for her lost content creation needle in a haystack,” Adaramodu remarked, adding that the Senate has moved past any issues with her. Akpoti-Uduaghan had earlier alleged that upon her arrival in Abuja, she would face arrest, claiming that Senate President Akpabio had sent staff to remove her from the United Nations premises. She also defended her presence at the IPU event, insisting that her participation was legitimate despite her suspension. Responding to her claims, Adaramodu suggested that Akpoti-Uduaghan was troubled by her own actions at the event. ...

Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has warned that the country stands to lose significantly if Niger Republic, Mali, and Burkina Faso do not return to democratic governance. Speaking on Arise Television’s Prime Time, Musa emphasized that leadership failures in these three West African nations could have direct consequences for Nigeria. He highlighted the challenges of widespread poverty, governance issues, climate change, and weak political structures as major concerns affecting the region. According to Musa, the instability in these countries is spilling over into Nigeria, making national security efforts more difficult. He stressed the need for a stable and democratic government in each of these nations, as this would allow them to make informed decisions that contribute to regional peace and development. "The truth is, these three countries must get their leadership right. Without democratic systems in place, their struggles will conti...

PORT HARCOURT, Nigeria — Political unrest in Rivers State intensified late Saturday as enraged youth set ablaze the private residence of former Governor and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike. The attack, which occurred on the night of March 15, 2025, stemmed from allegations of political betrayal and destabilization efforts against Governor Siminalayi Fubara of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Wike, once a dominant force in Rivers politics, has been accused of colluding with lawmakers loyal to him in an attempt to impeach Fubara. The move has fueled widespread outrage, particularly from the group “Rivers Youth for Change,” who took to the streets in protest. Witnesses described a tense and chaotic scene as demonstrators stormed Wike’s residence in Port Harcourt, chanting slogans and denouncing his alleged actions. “Wike is a traitor to his people and to the PDP. He was once our champion, but now he is trying to destroy everything we’ve ...

A total of 190 residents of Ebonyi State, who were displaced from the Ilaje area of Lagos, arrived in Iziogo, Izzi Local Government Area, on Thursday night. Upon arrival, they were received at the palace of the traditional ruler representing Izzi LGA, Cyprian Nwekee. Addressing the returnees, the monarch described their displacement as unfortunate, emphasizing the need for proper resettlement and financial support to help them reintegrate into society. He noted that the affected individuals had lived in Lagos before their forced eviction and urged the government at all levels to provide financial aid. One of the displaced persons, Mrs. Ogbonna, who had lived in Lagos for over 20 years and has 10 children, expressed concerns about their future. She appealed for assistance from the government, organizations, and well-meaning individuals to help them rebuild their lives.

In a recent broadcast, Ahmad Isah, popularly known as the "Ordinary President" of the Brekete Family program, cautioned President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of the 2027 elections. Isah stressed that Nigerians demand genuine governance, warning that distributing rice, beans, or soap would not secure votes if the administration fails to deliver meaningful progress. His remarks, captured in a video shared by Brekete Family, echo the growing frustration among citizens who prioritize effective leadership over material inducements. Renowned for its advocacy on social issues, Brekete Family continues to amplify the concerns of ordinary Nigerians, urging accountability from public officials. As the 2027 elections approach, Isah’s message underscores a shift in voter expectations, signaling that re-election will depend on tangible achievements rather than temporary incentives. Watch the video (0:44 min): Click here

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has launched a decisive airstrike in Katsina State, targeting notorious bandit hideouts in Unguwar Goga Hillforest, Ruwan Godiya Ward, Faskari LGA. The operation, executed by the Air Component of Operation Fansan Yamma in the early hours of March 13, 2025, struck the fortified camps of two notorious bandit kingpins, Gero (Alhaji) and Alhaji Riga. A statement from NAF’s Deputy Director of Public Relations, Group Captain Kabiru Ali, confirmed that over 20 bandits were neutralized, with additional casualties in the surrounding rocky hills. Ali described Riga and Gero as key enablers of banditry, providing shelter for terrorist elements responsible for deadly ambushes along the Funtua-Gusau Road. He added that assessments of the full impact of the airstrike are ongoing.

Uchechi Okwu-Kanu, wife of IPOB leader Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, has refuted a viral report claiming that their son, Nnamdi Kanu Jnr., won the Best Student award in Mathematics and Science in Georgia, USA. The widely circulated story alleged that Kanu Jnr. outperformed students from nearly 30 countries, including China and England, with an exceptional IQ and flawless exam performance. Reacting via her verified Meta account, Mrs. Kanu dismissed the report as false, stating that a similar claim surfaced years ago and was debunked. She clarified that the boy pictured alongside her husband is not their son. “I wish the brilliant boy and his parents well. Being mentioned alongside a great man like Onyendu Mazi Nnamdi Kanu is a rare privilege," she wrote, adding, "I wish the originator of this story had better eyesight.”  Follow for me and don't forget to comment and share your thoughts with others

The leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, is set to appear before a new judge on March 21, 2025, at the Federal High Court in Abuja. According to DAILY POST, Kanu’s trial has been reassigned to Justice James Omotosho, following his legal team’s demand for an impartial judge. Speaking on the development, Kanu’s lead counsel, Aloy Ejimakor, confirmed that the legal team is fully prepared. However, he noted that they have yet to receive the specific charges Kanu will face before Justice Omotosho. Background of the Case In September 2024, Kanu challenged Justice Binta Nyako, requesting her recusal due to perceived bias. Justice Nyako initially stepped down, but the Chief Judge of the Abuja Federal High Court overruled her decision. In December 2024, Justice Nyako indefinitely adjourned Kanu’s case. Kanu vowed not to appear in court again until an impartial judge was assigned. New Trial Begins Ejimakor emphasized that Kanu’s trial will start afresh under...

Nnamdi Kanu’s son has been named the Best Student in Mathematics and Science in Georgia, USA, outperforming competitors from China, England, and 20 other countries. In a highly prestigious global competition, he impressed judges by surpassing nearly 30 international contenders, showcasing his exceptional IQ and academic brilliance. The examination was conducted under strict supervision, ensuring fairness and integrity. Remarkably, he answered all questions flawlessly without any malpractice. This victory is a major academic milestone, proving his excellence on the global stage. #NnamdiKanuSon #BestStudentAward #GlobalMathAndScienceCompetition #ExceptionalIQ #AcademicExcellence #InternationalScholars

According to The Nation, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, has secured a significant legal victory as his trial has been reassigned to a new judge—fulfilling his long-standing request. Kanu, who has been in a prolonged legal dispute with the Nigerian government, had repeatedly raised concerns over judicial bias. His legal team insisted that justice could only be served if the case was transferred to a neutral judge. “All we seek is a fair and impartial trial,” his lead counsel argued. “Justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done.” https://theunfilteredthought.blogspot.com/2025/03/justice-omotosho-to-begin-nnamdi-kanus.html The judiciary’s decision to reassign the case is seen as a win for Kanu, who has remained resolute despite his extended detention. His supporters welcomed the move, calling it a step towards fairness. An IPOB member stated, “This proves that truth cannot be silenced. Mazi Nnamdi Kanu has been demandi...

The landing cost of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) in Nigeria has dropped to N774.82 per litre, making it cheaper than the N825 per litre ex-depot price of Dangote Refinery’s fuel. This shift has intensified competition in the downstream oil sector, as major oil marketers now offer lower prices to attract customers. Industry insiders revealed that the decline in landing cost could reduce pump prices to about N800 per litre, making imported petrol a more attractive option than refinery products. The N774.82 per litre landing cost represents a N50.28 drop compared to Dangote Refinery’s ex-depot rate, prompting many retail marketers to prioritize imported fuel over local refinery supplies. NNPC and Dangote Refinery Cut Prices Amid Competition Just last Monday, NNPC lowered its retail petrol price to N860-N880 per litre, following a similar reduction by Dangote Refinery. This marked the third price cut in two months, with Dangote reducing its ex-depot price from N890 to N825 per li...

Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja has set Friday, March 21, as the commencement date for the trial of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) confirmed on Wednesday that the date was fixed following the transfer of Kanu’s case file to Justice Omotosho. Kanu, who was extradited from Kenya in June 2021, is expected to take his plea as the trial begins afresh (de novo). NAN reports that the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice John Tsoho, had re-assigned the case to Justice Omotosho in a letter dated March 4, addressed to Kanu’s lead counsel, Mr. Aloy Ejimakor. The reassignment followed a request by Kanu and his legal team for a new judge, citing bias concerns. Justice Binta Nyako, who previously handled the case, recused herself on September 24, 2024, stating she could not continue the trial if the defendant had lost confidence in the court. However, the Chief Judge initially ...

President Bola Tinubu has urged leaders in Rivers State to support Governor Siminalayi Fubara in upholding peace and implementing a Supreme Court judgment. Speaking to Pan-Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) leaders, Tinubu revealed that he had been working discreetly to resolve the state's political crisis. In a video shared by SYMFONI TV, Tinubu noted that both parties in the conflict had signed an agreement, but some later opposed the governor's decision, escalating tensions. He emphasized that Nigeria upholds the rule of law, and as President, he fully respects Supreme Court rulings. “I have total confidence in our Judiciary,” Tinubu stated. “People may err, but once the Supreme Court speaks, its decision is final.” He urged leaders to assist Governor Fubara in swiftly implementing the court's directives. The President also disclosed that he personally advised Fubara to prioritize peace over conflict. “I told him, pursue the path of peace and stoop to conquer,” Tinub...

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited has officially ended its naira-for-crude arrangement with Dangote Petroleum Refinery and other local refineries. This decision has raised concerns about potential fuel price hikes, as refineries will now need to source crude oil from international suppliers and pay in U.S. dollars instead of naira. With this shift, production costs are expected to rise, which could ultimately result in higher fuel prices for consumers. Sources reveal that NNPC has already informed refineries that it has forward-sold all its crude oil, leaving them reliant on foreign markets for supply. This development comes as Nigeria continues to navigate economic challenges in its energy sector. Many industry analysts fear that relying on international crude supplies could place additional pressure on fuel availability and pricing in the country.

The Federal High Court (FHC) has dismissed a viral social media report claiming that the newly assigned judge in the case of Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has stepped down. The court described the report as false and misleading. The viral claim, titled “New Judge Steps Down from Nnamdi Kanu’s Case, Says His Arrest Was Wrong,” alleged that Justice John Tsoho, the Chief Judge of the FHC, was the new judge in the case and had withdrawn from it. The report stated: “Justice John Tsoho, the new judge assigned to Nnamdi Kanu’s case, has quit. He said Kanu was brought back to Nigeria from Kenya illegally and, for that reason, he cannot preside over the case without compromising his own beliefs.” However, in an official statement signed by the Chief Registrar, Sulaiman Hassan, the FHC debunked the claims, calling them “entirely unfounded, fictitious, grossly mischievous, and damaging in intent.” The statement further clarified: "T...