Politics
House of Reps Deputy Chief Whip, Onanuga Passes Away
The Deputy Chief Whip of the House of Representatives, Hon. Adewunmi Oriyomi Onanuga, has died at the age of 59.
The lawmaker passed away on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, after a brief illness.
Born on December 2, 1965, Onanuga represented the Ikenne/Sagamu/Remo North Federal Constituency of Ogun State.
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Until her death, she served as the Deputy Chief Whip, playing a pivotal role in legislative processes and advocating for policies that improved social infrastructure and empowered women.
In a statement mourning her loss, the House of Representatives described her as a “passionate advocate” who was deeply committed to the well-being of her constituents and the nation at large.
“We mourn the late House of Reps. Deputy Chief Whip, Hon. Oriyomi Adewunmi Onanuga, representing Ikenne/Sagamu/Remo North Federal Constituency. She championed policies empowering women & improving social infrastructure for her constituents and country. May she find eternal rest,” the statement read.
Onanuga’s passing has left a void in the Green Chamber and her constituency, where she was widely respected for her dedication and leadership.
Funeral arrangements are yet to be announced.
Politics
Rivers State Court Judgment: PDP Accepts Verdict, Affirms Ewor-led Rivers State Exco
The National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) @OfficialPDPNig has acknowledged receipt, considered and hereby accepts the judgment of the Rivers State High Court which in Suit No. PHC/2301/CS/2024 nullified the Ward, Local Government and State Congresses of our Party in Rivers State conducted on July 27, August 10 and August 31, 2024 respectively.
Consequently, in line with the judgement of the Court delivered on Monday, January 13, 2025, the NWC affirms the Hon. Nname Robinson Ewor-led Rivers State Executive to henceforth pilot the affairs of the PDP Rivers State Chapter in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution of the PDP (as amended in 2017).
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The NWC commends the decision of the court which reaffirms the famed position of the PDP as the bastion of transparency in the due process of internal democracy and strict adherence to the Rule of Law and Party Guidelines in the conduct of Congresses and other activities.
The NWC calls on all leaders, critical stakeholders, members and supporters of our Party in Rivers State and the nation to work with the Hon. Nname Robinson Ewor-led Rivers State Executive to ensure the unity, stability, growth and continuous success of the PDP in Rivers State.
The NWC charges the Ewor-led Rivers State Executive to work hard to further unite the Party in the State so that the people of Rivers State can continue to enjoy the massive dividends of democracy as being delivered by our performing governor, Sir. Siminalayi Fubara, in line with the manifesto and policy thrust of the PDP.
The NWC commends all members of the PDP in Rivers State for their steadfastness and unshaken belief in the ideals of the Party as a truly democratic and all-inclusive Party guided only by the collective Will, yearning and aspiration of the people.
Politics
Edo APC Cautions Against Misinterpretation Of Electoral Laws
The Edo State Governorship Election Tribunal’s recent proceedings have shed light on the importance of legal counsel and the accurate interpretation of electoral laws.
Biztellers reports that on Wednesday, the tribunal, presided over by Justice Wilfred Kachi, heard Petition No. EPT/ED/GOV/01/2024, filed by Dr. Bright Enabulele and various political parties.
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During the session, three witnesses testified for the petitioners, while the respondents, including the incumbent Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and the All Progressives Congress (APC), were represented by their counsel.
It was gathered that the PDP expressed joy at the turn of events, believing they had won due to a misinterpretation of the BVAS role in determining voter turnout.
The APC would however, point out that their political rivals failed to seek proper legal counsel, which would have advised them that the BVAS was not the sole determinant of voter turnout.
The APC cited the Supreme Court in asserting that the voter report from units and wards is the decisive factor.
It maintained that this oversight led to the PDP’s celebration being short-lived, as the tribunal’s analysis revealed that the APC was, in fact, the winner. This outcome highlights the importance of seeking proper legal advice and understanding the intricacies of electoral laws.
In the words of the Supreme Court, the BVN is not a device to conclude voter turnout.
Rather, it is the voter report from units and wards that holds significant weight.
In light of this development, the APC urged the opposition, particularly the PDP, to tread with caution and avoid the legal implications of the Governorship tribunal case against them.
According to APC sources, it is essential for the PDP to seek proper legal counsel and advisory guidance to navigate the complexities of the electoral process.
As the legal battle unfolds, it is crucial to remember that the rule of law must prevail, and justice must be served. The people of Edo State deserve a fair and transparent electoral process, and it is the responsibility of all stakeholders to ensure that this is achieved.
“The opposition that is in a wild goose chase must endeavor to allow peace reign in the State as Edo State is coasting smoothly with its choice of a Government they are comfortable with,” Edo State APC asserted.
It maintained that Gov Okpebholo remained unperturbed about the antics of the opposition to distract his administration.
Politics
Tensions Escalate At PDP Headquarters As Two Secretaries Lay Claim To Position
There was a heavy police presence at the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) national headquarters on Monday as the party’s National Secretary dispute continues to simmer.
Both Samuel Anyawu, the embattled National Secretary, and Ude Okoye, who the Court of Appeal has declared the authentic National Secretary, were expected to assume duties today, fueling a tense standoff at the party’s secretariat.
Sources on the ground reported that while the atmosphere remained charged, the presence of police personnel ensured some level of order.
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Supporters of both Anyawu and Okoye gathered outside, each faction determined to back their respective candidates.
The situation took a dramatic turn when Anyawu drove into the premises and proceeded directly to his office, where he was greeted by cheers from his loyalists.
Inside, Anyawu called for prayers before addressing the media.
Responding to questions regarding the Court of Appeal’s ruling in favor of Okoye, Anyawu confirmed that the matter has been appealed and is currently before the Supreme Court.
When asked about the PDP’s acknowledgment of Okoye as the National Secretary, following a briefing by the national publicity secretary last week, Anyawu dismissed it as the personal opinion of the spokesperson.
The roots of this conflict trace back to Anyawu’s decision to contest the Imo State governorship election, a move that led him to temporarily vacate the National Secretary position.
Upon his return, Okoye, who had assumed the role during Anyawu’s absence, challenged Anyawu’s right to reclaim the office.
Following legal proceedings, the Court of Appeal ruled in Okoye’s favor, and the PDP National Working Committee acknowledged Okoye as the legitimate National Secretary, respecting the court’s decision.
Despite this, Anyawu continues to assert his claim, with both sides preparing for a prolonged battle.