the unfiltered thought

The 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, has announced the formation of a coalition of opposition political parties aimed at unseating President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 elections. Atiku made this declaration during a press conference at the Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja, where he spoke on behalf of opposition leaders. He described the coalition as a strategic move to strengthen democracy and ensure a formidable challenge in the next election. His announcement comes against the backdrop of political turmoil in Rivers State, following President Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in the region. The move, which included the suspension of the Governor, Deputy Governor, and the State House of Assembly, has sparked widespread condemnation from opposition leaders and legal experts. Key Highlights from the Opposition's Statement: Unconstitutional Action: Opposition leaders argue that Tinubu's declaration violates the Nigeria...

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...

The Chief Judge of the Federal High Court in Abuja, Justice John Tsoho, has officially reassigned the case of Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), to a new judge. Kanu’s lead counsel, Aloy Ejimakor, disclosed this development in a statement on Saturday. Kanu had previously requested that Justice Binta Nyako step down from his trial, citing concerns over her continued involvement in the seven-count terrorism charge filed by the Federal Government. Justice Nyako initially recused herself and returned the case file to the Chief Judge for reassignment. However, the case was later sent back to her, a move Kanu strongly opposed, insisting that a different judge should preside over his trial. On February 20, Kanu’s legal team formally petitioned the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, seeking administrative intervention to ensure a lawful reassignment of the case. Ejimakor revealed that on March 7, the legal team received two crucia...

Nigeria is home to numerous affluent churches that have amassed significant wealth through various means. Below is an overview of some of the richest churches in the country and the primary sources contributing to their financial prosperity: 1. Catholic Church: Globally influential, the Catholic Church's wealth is derived from donations, investments, and extensive real estate holdings. 2. Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG): Led by Pastor Enoch Adeboye, RCCG's wealth stems from tithes, offerings, and investments in educational institutions and real estate. 3. Anglican Church: One of Nigeria's oldest denominations, the Anglican Church benefits financially from historical assets, member contributions, and investments in various sectors. 4. Living Faith Church (Winners' Chapel): Founded by Bishop David Oyedepo, this church's income is bolstered by tithes, offerings, and ventures in education and publishing...

In a closely contested decision on Wednesday, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that the Trump administration must release approximately $2 billion in foreign aid payments to nonprofit humanitarian organizations. The funds, previously frozen under an administrative order, were allocated for completed humanitarian projects in Nigeria and other nations. The 5–4 ruling saw Chief Justice John Roberts and Justice Amy Coney Barrett siding with the liberal justices to support the relief organizations. However, the decision did not provide detailed reasoning, instead directing the district court judge to clarify the government's obligations regarding the disbursement of the funds.

In a grand display of appreciation and loyalty, Cubana Chief Priest has surprised his mentor and boss, Obi Cubana, with a luxurious 2022 Toyota Highlander SUV as a birthday gift. The extravagant gesture took place during Obi Cubana’s birthday celebration, drawing admiration from guests and social media followers. Obi Cubana, the renowned nightlife entrepreneur and business mogul, whose real name is Obinna Iyiegbu, was visibly moved by the surprise. The vehicle, decorated for the occasion, was presented personally by Cubana Chief Priest, who expressed his gratitude for Obi Cubana’s mentorship and leadership. "This gift symbolizes my gratitude for your mentorship and leadership throughout the years," Cubana Chief Priest stated during the presentation. "Happy birthday to a visionary who continues to inspire us all." The 2022 Toyota Highlander, valued at several million naira, boasts premium features, including a luxurious leather interior, advan...

Dangote Petroleum Refinery has announced a new partnership to expand the distribution of affordable petrol across Nigeria. Optima Energy is the latest marketer to join the refinery’s fuel distribution network, alongside MRS Nigeria, Ardova PLC, and Heyden. This expansion comes just hours after NNPC Limited reduced its pump prices nationwide. In an official statement shared on X, Dangote Refinery encouraged Nigerians to purchase fuel from its authorized partners, promising competitive prices and high-quality petrol refined for better engine performance and environmental safety. Following the refinery’s recent ex-depot price reduction from N890 per litre to N825, the company reiterated its commitment to making fuel more affordable. It also issued a stern warning against excessive profiteering, stating that any partner selling above the advertised price would be held accountable. Consumers who find petrol priced higher than the listed rates at partner outlets are urged to repo...

The Holy See has confirmed that Pope Francis passed away overnight at the age of 87, officially ending his historic papacy. The announcement, made early this morning in a statement by the Vatican, has sent shockwaves throughout the Catholic Church and the global community. Millions now mourn the loss of a leader celebrated for his humility, progressive views on social issues, and steadfast commitment to reform. Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, Pope Francis became the 266th pope of the Roman Catholic Church in 2013, succeeding Pope Benedict XVI. His appointment was historic, as he was the first pope from Latin America and the first Jesuit to hold the office. During his tenure, he championed causes such as combating climate change, promoting economic justice, fostering interfaith dialogue, and advocating for the rights of migrants and the poor. While the Vatican has not yet disclosed details regarding the cause of death or funeral arrangements, preparations are already underway fo...

Dangote Petroleum Refinery announced on Wednesday a reduction in the ex-depot (gantry) price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, by N65. This brings the price down from N890 to N825 per litre, effective Thursday, February 27, 2025. According to the refinery, the price adjustment aims to provide relief to Nigerians ahead of the Ramadan season. With this latest reduction, Dangote petrol will be available at partner retail outlets at the following prices: Lagos – N860 per litre South-West – N870 per litre North – N880 per litre South-South & South-East – N890 per litre This marks the second petrol price reduction in February 2025, following an earlier N60 decrease earlier in the month. In December 2024, the refinery had also cut PMS prices by N70.50, reducing the cost from N970 to N899.50 per litre.

The Senate has stated that it cannot investigate the sexual harassment allegations against Senate President Godswill Akpabio made by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduagha (PDP, Kogi Central) due to the lack of a formal petition. Speaking on ARISE TV on Monday, Senator Yemi Adaramodu (APC, Ekiti South), Chairman of the Senate Committee on Media and Publicity, emphasized that without an official complaint, there is no basis for a probe. A Senate spokesperson confirmed that no formal petition had been submitted to the Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions. In her interview, Senator Natasha claimed that on December 8, 2023, during a visit to Akpabio’s residence in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, he made inappropriate advances towards her—holding her hand, guiding her around his home, and making sexual advances while her husband trailed behind. She further alleged that, on another occasion, the former Akwa Ibom State governor suggested she should "make him happy" if she...

Senator Orji Uzor Kalu has asserted that President Bola Tinubu must serve two terms, emphasizing that the All Progressives Congress (APC) has only one presidential candidate for the 2027 election. > “In our party, we have only one presidential candidate now. And Tinubu has to do eight years. You can see the repairs he has done to the economy, and things are starting to pick up again,” Kalu stated during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Monday. The Abia North Senator and former Abia State Governor also acknowledged the importance of having an Igbo president but ruled out the possibility in 2027. > “I am not going to discuss anything about the Igbo presidency. But I still tell you there is a need for it. The Igbo must present an acceptable candidate to all Nigerians. No single zone can elect a president. President Tinubu was not elected by the Yoruba alone; he was elected by all Nigerians.” While Tinubu has not officially declared his re-election ...

Just as the wrongdoings of men follow them, so do their good deeds. Eleven years after leaving office, the positive impact of Peter Obi’s tenure as Governor of Anambra State (2006–2014) continues to be felt. One of his notable achievements—the Chukwuemeka Odumegwu-Ojukwu Teaching Hospital in Awka—has become a beacon of hope for many. A US-based Nigerian, Chief Sabi Nweke, recently expressed profound gratitude to Obi for establishing the hospital, revealing that it played a crucial role in saving his life. While recounting his experience, Nweke said: > "If that hospital wasn’t a teaching hospital, I may not have been alive today. I was in Awka for Christmas on December 10, 2024, and by the 15th, I was rushed to Amaku Hospital for treatment of diverticulitis. I was there until the 30th of December and returned to the US two weeks ago. Obi’s wise decision saved my life." Feeling indebted, Nweke even reached out to Obi, commending his vision and urging him to conti...

A woman recently made a bold decision to unwrap a wedding gift she received back in 2013 from a friend she had since lost contact with. In a TikTok video, she revealed that she had kept the gift unopened for 12 years, as their friendship had ended over a financial dispute. After finally opening the carefully wrapped present, she discovered two beautifully designed flower vases inside. Reflecting on their past friendship, she shared: > "We only stopped being friends, and in fact, she blocked me just two years ago… If there’s one thing I can’t do, it’s hold a grudge. I’m too weak for that." Social Media Reactions The video sparked mixed reactions online, with many expressing skepticism about unopened gifts: 💬 Takalani: "Throw them away." 💬 Mrs_Kay87 💕💕: "Why did you keep it for so long? 😳 You should have thrown it away." 💬 MaHGirL.Y_28: "You should have gotten rid of them for your own safety, my darling." 💬 Happy: "I don’t trust peop...