Others included former Governor of Ogun State, Chief Olusegun Osoba; Afenifere Leader, Chief Bode George; Former Governor of Cross Rivers State, Dr Donald Duke; former Governor of Lagos State, Babatunde Fashola; founder, Business Day Newspaper, Frank Aigbogun; Chairman, Ovation Media Group, Chief Dele Momodu; Former INEC REC, Muhammad Kudu Haruna; Lagos State Commissioner for Information, Gbenga Omotoso, and Publisher, Guardian Newspaper, Maiden Alex Ibru.
Headline
2nd Anniversary of Second Term: Governor Wike Launches Plethora of Projects
Published
4 years agoon
By
Eric
By Michael Effiong
In many states in Nigeria, Chief Executives begin to wind down after their first four years, but not Governor Nyesom Wike of Rivers State.
He is determined to work till 000 hours of his administration which is reason he has laid out an ambitious and tasking schedule, spanning three months to launch a plethora of projects to mark the second anniversary of his second term.
For some, his sobriquet Mr. Projects would have been enough for him to rest on his oars but Wike ‘s strength and success are rooted in his hand’s on leadership style, his fierce commitment to grassroots development, never-give-up spirit and herculean work ethic which is resonating now more than ever especially in Nigeria of today that many insist is in a state of inertia.
From roads to healthcare, education, agriculture to industries, the projects for launch are not only diverse but also spread across the three Senatorial Districts of the state. Truth be told, Governor Wike is truly working-and the evidence is there for even his fiercest critics to see.
Little wonder that the Central Bank Governor, Mr Godwin Emefiele during his speech just a few days ago urged Governors of other states to emulate Governor Wike by investing in projects that will boost the economy and create job opportunities for youths and the community.
Governor Wike epitomises the saying that leadership is not what is easy but what is right. His courageous and purposeful style shows in the kind of audacious projects he has embarked on since he took over the mantle of leadership.
For this second anniversary of his second term which kicked off on May 27, 2021, the projects listed for launch include: Commissioning of River State Cassava Plant, flag-off of Bori-Kono Road (Phase Two), Flag-off of Aluu-Omagwa Road, Flag off of Emohua Campus of Rivers State University, Flag off of Etche Campus of River State University, flag off of Ahoada-Omoku Road, Commissioning of National Industrial Court Judges Quarters, Flag Off of projects at Nigerian Law School , Yenogoa, Bayelsa State, Commissioning of Rivers State University Senate Building, Foundation laying ceremony of College of Medical Sciences Building, Rivers State University, signing of agreement and flag off of Peter Odili Cancer and Cardiovascular Diseases Diagnostic and Treatment Centre, Commissioning of Mother & Child Hospital, Flag off of Government Secondary, Kpor, Gokana, Flag off of Ogbunabali/Eastern Bye-Pass Road, Foundation laying ceremony of Haemodialysis and Renal Centre at RSUTH and flag off of Ogbakiri internal roads.
Governor Wike epitomises the saying that leadership is not what is easy but what is right. His courageous and purposeful style shows in the kind of audacious projects he has embarked on since he took over the mantle of leadership.
Others are: Flag off of Rumuepirikom Flyover, commissioning of Odufor-Umuoye Road, Commissioning of Isiah Odoli/Omerelu Street, Commissioning of Herbert Macaulay and Nzimiro Streets, Commissioning of Trans-Kalabari Road, Commissioning of Community Secondary School, Obiagu, Oyigbo, flag off of Omerelu Internal Road, Commissioning of Community Secondary School, Eteo, Commissioning of Omueze-Umuogberi-Eberi Road, Flag off of Abonema/Obonom Sandfill, Commissioning of Pabod Breweries and Oginigba Roads, Flag off of Mgbuitanwo Road, Flag off of Woji-Aleto-Alesa Road, Commissioning of Rumuigbo and other old GRA RoadsCommissioning of William Jumbo/ Ernest Ikoli Street, Eleme and other adjoining streets, Flag off of Okrika Sand-fill, Flag off of Okochiri Internal Roads, Commissioning of Opobo/Nkoro Road, Commissioning of NURSS Secretariat, Foundation laying ceremony of University of Port Harcourt Convocation Arena and Flag off of reconstruction of Government House Jetty.
Interestingly it is after he has done all these that Governor will deem it fit to give his account of stewardship and will affirm that indeed Rivers State is moving in the right direction as he promised when he took the oath of office after a resounding victory at the polls.
On that auspicious occasion he said: “For us, in all things it is Rivers State first; Rivers State is the measure; Rivers State before others. This is the essence of the political mandate and burden that we will bear for the next four years and we will not disappoint you.
“We will continue to stand up for Rivers State and defend her interest, no matter the challenges or what comes at us”.
The Governor said that his Administration is not in opposition to the Federal Government, calling for partnership to move Rivers State and Nigeria forward.
He said: ” But we are not a conquered people and we will never surrender our freedoms to any body or entity, whether internal or external.
We will therefore not accept to be subjugated to a headmaster and pupil power relationship; neither will we abandon the collective interest of Rivers State for the sake of political expediency.
“We are for the rule of law, democracy and mutual respect as autonomous State entities and co-building blocks of the Nigerian federation”.
The Central Bank Governor, Mr Godwin Emefiele during his speech just a few days ago urged Governors of other states to emulate Governor Wike by investing in projects that will boost the economy and create job opportunities for youths and the community.
Governor Wike thanked the good people of Rivers State, especially the voters, for their trust and support that led to the mandate to serve the state for another four years.
He thanked leaders of the state, political leaders, Traditional Rulers, the clergy, women and youth groups for their unwavering support.
He said: “For us, everyone counts and we must not allow ourselves to be divided between upland and riverine considerations but strive for common grounds, solidarity and work together towards achieving our common goals and aspirations.
“Our refrain at this time, and especially in the face of the social and economic uncertainties in our nation, should be: ask what you can do for Rivers State instead of what Rivers State can do for you.
“The future of our State depends on us. It is up to us to renew, re-energize, and advance the Rivers dream, to fight for what belongs to us, and to defend our right to exist in freedom, security and peace in our own nation. And if we do cooperate, think and act among ourselves with tenacity and unity of strength, purpose and commitment, then there is no mountain we cannot level; no river we cannot cross, and no goal we set for ourselves that we cannot achieve.”
Outlining the direction of his administration for the next four years , Governor Wike pledged to consolidate on his first term achievements and make Rivers State, the greatest state in the country.
He said: “Our economy is great but it should be greater and made more beneficial to all. And so we will continue to grow our economy, expand our tax base, provide a friendly business environment and attract foreign and local investments to create more jobs and empower our people.
“We will continue on the economic trajectory of fiscal discipline, prudence, prioritization of capital projects over recurrent and giving value for money spent in the delivery of services.
“We know we are developing, but it’s better and more result-oriented if approached in an organized and strategic form.We will therefore adopt a holistic approach to development by partnering with relevant national and international agencies and expertise to initiate and implement a 25-years Marshall Plan for economic transformation and development to guide and accelerate the future development of our State”.
Governor Wike spelt out key areas that will will witness remarkable improvements under his leadership during his second term.
He said that the administration in his second term will continue with the provision of quality road network, bridges and prioritize the development of more social amenities, schools, health facilities, water and sanitation, electricity, land reclamation and preservation of natural resources.
For some, his sobriquet Mr. Projects would have been enough for him to rest on his oars but Wike ‘s strength and success are rooted in his hand’s on leadership style, his fierce commitment to grassroots development, never-give-up spirit and herculean work ethic
“For too long, we have relied mostly on a single vanishing revenue source to fund our development. The reality is that we cannot continue in this economic folly lest we remain forever vulnerable to the ripples, uncertainties and miseries of the mono-product based national economy. Apart from oil and gas, Rivers State also has a vast agricultural potential, which has remained largely untapped for decades.
“For us therefore, it is about time we embraced the green revolution as a strategic measure for achieving economic diversification, job creation and food security for the State and our people, and we are just ready to do that.
Our role in this regard will span from granting interest free loans to providing training, land preparation and logistical support to our willing youths to invest in commercial agriculture and allied businesses”, he said.
Governor Wike particularly announced that his administration will construct fly over bridges at Rumuokoro, Garrison and Artillery in Port Harcourt.
Governor Wike assured that youth development will take centre stage during his second term.
He said: “We’ve got good news for all our youths this time around as we will dedicate much of the next four years to Youth Development by tackling the challenges that continue to keep you behind. As a starting point, we’ve resolved to give our youths some significant positions in our government and provide viable economic opportunities to spark hopes of a better future in their eyes.
“Let me also assure you that those who need education will get quality one; those who want life-skills will be trained; those who want to do business will continue to get our interest free loans; and those who have sporting talents will have quality sporting facilities and encouragement from us; and for those interested in making a career out of football, we have provided the Real Madrid Academy to prepare you for life-transforming professional footballing careers at home and abroad.
He began the second anniversary of the second term project’s launch with the commissioning of the River State Cassava Plant where he had Central Bank Governor, Mr Godwin Emefiele and Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Alhaji Sabo Nanono as Special Guests.
Truth be told, Governor Wike is truly working, and the evidence is there for even his fiercest critics to see
The Processing Plant located in Afam, Oyigbo Local Government was initiated and abandoned by the last administration but Governor saw its potential and has now completed it.
In his speech at the occasion, the elated Gov. Wike said he was delighted that the hitherto abandoned project was now up and running and will create 150 direct jobs and impact 3,000 farmers whose produce will serve as raw materials for the plant.
To increase the impact of the facility on the community, he said government will offer seed capital to genuine persons who wish to enter the Cassava farming business.
He also hinted that though the state currently has 70% equity of the company, his vision is to sell its stake to the private sector to ensure sustainability of the enterprise.
In his speech, Mr Emefiele commended Rivers State and said this project was in line with President Buhari’s vision for the economy.
He revealed that a N1.5 billion fund was available for any investor interested in the food industry to access.
Mr. Igo Weli, who represented, Mr Osagie Okunbor, the Managing Director of The Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria was full of praise for Governor Wike.
Mr Okunbor noted “I join the good people of Rivers State to commend you for your untiring effort to advance the economic fortunes of the state, even in the face of the challenges posed by the COVID-19 Pandemic.
“Experts have said that the local value addition to cassava and processing could potentially unlock about $16m in taxes to the government.
“It is in recognition of this and the far reaching impact for the good people of Rivers State that Shell decided to make the social investment”
“Today, we have the Rivers Cassava Processing Company Limited that will process Cassava into high quality Cassava flour via a unique split processing technology”
There were also speeches by Kola Adesina ( Sahara Energy)a and Tony Attah ( NLNG). They both urged corporate organisations to see the Afam Community as a hub for new businesses since power was constantly available.
Mr. Ruben Giesen, MD of the company disclosed that the plant would produce about 45,000metric tons of cassava flour daily, while it would need 12,000metric tons of cassava tubers.
Minister Nanono said he was impressed with the quality of Gov. Wike’s leaderhip as exemplified by the project. As his support, he said the Ministry will provide 10,000 high-grade seedlings for farmers linked to the project.
After his speech, the Minister officially cut the tape to the delight of all present and joined by other dignitaries, toured the impressive facility.
The next port of call was the flag off of the construction of the Bori-Kono Road (Phase Two) located in the heart of Ogoniland.
In deed, Governor with the flag off, made good his promise to the Ogoni people who had suffered for many years with poor road network.
Governor Wike who was honoured with a traditional title of Mene Kwalemu 1 of Ogoniland on account of his development projects in the area, performed the flag off with the assistance of Senator Lee Maeba.
Giving a background of the project, Hon. Elloka Tasie Amadi, the Commissioner of Works stated that upon completion, the road will be a 17.2km long , 22.3m wide dual carriageway.
“Each lane will be 10.65m wide separated by a 2m wide concrete median. It will have 2 bridges , 570 Streetlight poles,.1140 streetlight fittings, 6 stations to power the lights and approximately 5km of drainage.
Gov. Wike said he was delighted that the hitherto abandoned Cassava Plant was now up and running and will create 150 direct jobs and impact 3,000 farmers whose produce will serve as raw materials for the plant.
He noted that to guarantee timely, uninterrupted completion of this project within 14 months as desired by Governor Wike, the project is funded and backed by an ISPO which means that contract payments are automatically charged against the states accounts every month on a set date and paid directly to the contractor.
In his speech, Governor Wike said he was delighted to be back to Ogoniland to make good his promise of completing this road which he said would not only open up the area but will boost its economy.
He urged the Contractors to work under the rain and sunshine to ensure that the project is completed and delivered on time.
Special Guest at the occasion was ason of the soil, Senator Lee Maeba who thanked Governor Wike for his immense love for the Ogoni people.
According to him ” marginalisation of the Ogonis by previous administrations have come to an end. You promised that the Ogonis will not play second fiddle again, and you have made good that promise. We the Ogonis are happy with you”.
Senator Maeba stated further “The real celebration will not happen today, it will be the day this road is concluded at Kono Waterside”.
After his moving speech, Senator Maeba, Governor Wike, traditional rulers, respected sons of Ogoniland including activist Ledum Mitee then flagged off the new road to wondrous applause by the hundreds of indigenes who had stormed the venue.
Governor Wike has promised that he would not only complete all projects he embarks upon, but he will pay for them in full and not leave any debt for his successor.
From the evidence of his performance so far, there is no shadow of doubt that Rivers is on the rise.
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Headline
Benue Massacre: How Come No Arrest Has Been Made, Tinubu Fires at IGP
Published
6 hours agoon
June 18, 2025By
Eric
President Bola Tinubu has directed Nigeria’s military and intelligence leaders to identify and apprehend those responsible for the recent killings in Benue State, saying the continued violence must be met with a clear and coordinated response from security forces.
Addressing service chiefs, the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, and intelligence agency heads during a stakeholders meeting in Makurdi on Wednesday, Tinubu questioned the lack of arrests following the deadly attack on Yelwata community, which left dozens dead and displaced thousands.
“Police, I hope your men are on alert to listen to information. How come no arrest has been made? I expect there should be an arrest of those criminals,” Tinubu asked, urging security leaders to strengthen intelligence operations.
“Christopher (the chief of defence staff), you have given much. I watch your comments, you can’t be tired of staying in the bush. Oloyede and the Air Marshal, we thank all of you, but we need to keep our ears to the ground, let’s get those criminals, let’s get them out. DG NIA, DG SSS, retool your information channels and let’s have tangible intelligence so that this will not occur again.”
Tinubu’s comments came during a visit to Benue, where he met victims of the recent attack and later engaged political, religious, and traditional leaders in discussions on how to curb the prolonged violence between armed groups and rural communities.
Directing the National Intelligence Agency and the Department of State Services to review their operations, Tinubu said the government must “retool information channels” and act decisively.
The President’s visit comes amid heightened public pressure following the Yelwata killings, which have drawn criticism from political figures and religious leaders, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party’s Peter Obi, and Pope Leo XIV.
During the meeting, Tinubu also reaffirmed his call for peacebuilding efforts. He told Governor Hyacinth Alia to work closely with past governors and traditional rulers in the state, warning that a failure to foster unity could further destabilise the region.
“We are members of the same house, just sleeping in different rooms,” Tinubu said. “We need to turn this tragedy into an opportunity to rebuild trust and foster development. Human life is more valuable than anything else.”
“Whatever we need to do, I’m ready to invest in that peace,” he said.
Governor Alia, in response, appealed for constitutional support to establish state police forces and a special intervention fund for rebuilding affected communities. He acknowledged the limitations of community policing but said it remained necessary to address Benue’s ongoing security challenges.
Traditional leaders at the meeting took a more urgent tone. The Tor Tiv and chairman of the Benue State Traditional Council, James Ayatse, rejected framing the violence as a herder-farmer conflict, describing it instead as a “coordinated campaign of terror and land seizure.”
“This is not a clash,” he said. “It is a calculated, full-scale genocidal invasion that has gone on for decades and is getting worse every year. Mischaracterising the problem leads to misguided solutions.”
Ayatse urged Tinubu to recognise the situation for what it is and to address it accordingly.
As part of his visit, the President toured hospitals where victims are receiving treatment and encouraged citizens to donate blood.
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Headline
Pa Sam Amuka-Pemu: Celebrating a Media Titan at 90
Published
3 days agoon
June 16, 2025By
Eric
By Eric Elezuo
President Bola Tinubu, on June 12, a day before the birthday, set the stage for what was going to be a grandiose 90th birthday reception of one generally reputed as a media guru, titan and a solid force to reckon with in the business of pen pushing, Prince Sam Amuka-Pemu, known in many quarters as Uncle Sam, or Sad Sam, in referenceto a columnhe pioneered. That day, Tinubu lavished words of endearment on him, bestowing on him the National honour of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON), and referribg to him as “a living testament to the power of the press to shape nations and hold power to account.”
The president had further noted that “Mr. Amuka-Pemu has devoted most of his life to journalism. It is to his credit and managerial acumen that Vanguard is alive today, 41 years after its founding, despite the crisis in the media industry. Uncle Sam remains a shining example of dedication, resilience and integrity within the media industry.
“Today, he is not just a leader of the profession; he is a doyen. His leadership, from the altar of journalism, has influenced the media landscape and extended to his role as a respected leader in Delta State and the South-South geopolitical zone, making him an elder statesman.
“On the occasion of this year’s Democracy Day, I conferred on him the national honour of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) in profound recognition of his significant contributions to the country and his exemplary leadership in the field of journalism. I urge the younger journalists to emulate this highly respected publisher and leader.”
On the d-day, the combined forces of Nigeria’s media, economic and political heavyweights gathered at the Convention Centre, Eko Hotels and Suites, Lagos, to celebrate the 90th birthday of the journalism icon. The event set for 6pm already had a capacity fill hall as at 5pm with the carpet buzzing with excellent and gorgeous attires by dignified Nigerians also making the way to the hall. Uncle Sam, who is the Founder, Newspapers, comes across as one, who has professionally paid his dues in full even as he is paying.
The event drew an array of respected veterans from across every calibre of the newsroom, including notable dignitaries from all walks of life; all under one room, expressing glowing remarks to the man, who has been fearless to the core in the practice of a craft, he loves so much.
The event, which was an avenue of reconnection, networking and reunion, was another moment to share and relive decades of journalism history among veterans.
Expressing his appreciation at the kind words and encomiums showered on him, an emotional Uncle intoned that “from all these, it appears that I’m already dead; just waiting to be buried”. The iconic journalist was speaking against the background that such goodwill messages are mostly heard when someone is already dead, basically at the person’s tribute night, adding he was privileged to be alive to hear his.
“From all these tributes, it seems that I’m already dead, waiting to be buried. I thought it was a night we would come together to merry and dance with the musicians ready, but…,” he reeled out emotionally.
It would be recalled that earlier, a pot pourri of eulogies, encomiums, goodwill messages and outright praises have flowed from the dignitaries to the living legend, whose contributions to the field of journalism cannot be overemphasized.
Leading the array of encomiums and goodwill messages, President Tinubu, speaking through his representative, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, noted that Sam Amuka has etched his name in “the conscience of our people, and his voice has long served as a compass and conscience for the Nigerian nation.
“Today, we celebrate the legacy of patriotism without blemish, which makes Uncle Sam one of the most enduring voices in Nigeria’s media and democratic revolution. He is the institutional memory of Nigerian journalism, with fingerprints on iconic newspapers like the Daily Times, Punch, and Vanguard Newspaper.
“These newspapers are not just publications; they are chronicles of our national life, reflecting our hopes, struggles, and trials; behind these murals stood a man of immeasurable principle and courage.
“He is not just a journalist, but a guardian of our national conscience, a centurion of our democracy, and a titan of press freedom in Africa.
“Without voices like Uncle Sam’s, our journey to democratic governance might have taken a darker path. We celebrate him as a warrior who fought with facts, not fists, and with principle, not propaganda.
“At 90, Uncle Sam remains arguably the oldest practising journalist in Nigeria. Still curious, still committed, still standing, we honour him not just with words, but with our commitment to a free, fearless, fair, and responsible media.”
Also eulogising the distinguished pen pusher, Chairman of ThisDay and Arise News, Prince Nduka Obaigbena and former Governor of Ogun State, Chief Segun Osoba, who were part of the brains behind the organization of the 90th birthday soiree, observed the long number of years they have known the veteran. While Obaigbena said the idea of the party was muted 30 years ago, Osoba said he has known him for a whopping 60 years.
“It’s been an honour to host this celebration for Uncle Sam today. Interestingly, the idea for this party was first conceived 30 years ago, when I mentioned to Uncle Sam that we would be hosting an evening event, and he jokingly replied that he wouldn’t be around by then,” Obaigbena said.
On his part, Osoba noted that “Today, we’re celebrating Uncle Sam’s special day, but I must admit, he didn’t want a big fuss. He preferred a low-key, informal gathering with plenty of music and dancing.
“I’ve known Uncle Sam for over 60 years, and I can attest that he’s a complex and multifaceted individual. Beneath his calm exterior lies a whirlwind of energy and strong opinions.
“As the Guild of Veterans, we wanted to honour Uncle Sam in a way that would make him happy. So, I visited him at home and we had a lively discussion, exchanging playful jabs and jokes. Eventually, he agreed to our plans, on the condition that the celebration would be informal and fun-filled.
In his message on X, Governor of Enugu State, Mr. Peter Mba, said in part, “I celebrate an icon and a perfect gentleman, who is not only a media giant, but has also nurtured giants through his mentorship. His establishment of Vanguard with a motto of a better life for the people was for him a continuation of using the media space to enthrone good.
“For a man who refuses to celebrate himself despite the opportunities available to him, it is only proper that those whom he has positively affected have chosen the occasion of his 90th birthday to celebrate his positive passion for mankind.”
Others, who lent their voices to express great regards for the nonagerian included the Governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Adeleke, Ogiame Atuwatse III, Publisher of the Guardian Newspaper, Dame Maiden Ibru; former Governor of Delta State, James Ibori, Prof Wole Soyinka, Guild of Veterans, Guild of Editors, ThisDay Alumni Association and others.
The night, beyond speeches, was also a meeting point for good music, led by ageless maestro, Evangelist Ebenezer Obey, sumptuous dishes of local and intercontinental standards and outright fun as superinded over by Dare Art Alade as the anchor.
The role call of dignitaries at the event include the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris; the Presidential Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga; Chairman, ThisDay and Arise Media Group, Prince Nduka Obaigbena; the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III; the Deputy Governor of Delta State, Monday Onyeme; former Governor of Delta State, Chief James Ibori; Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke; Nobel Laureate, Wole Soyinka; and former Governor of Anambra State, Mr. Peter Obi
THE MAN, SAM AMUKA-PEMU
The media icon was born on June 13, 1935 born in Sapele, Delta State, southern Nigeria, into the family of the late Pa Amuka-Pemu and Madam Teshoma Amuka-Pemu, both of whom died in May 2014.
A journalist of repute, columnist and publisher, Uncle Sam as he was came to be known, founded the Vanguard Newspapers, growing it to become one of Nigeria’s leading newspapers. His journey to establishing Vanguard in 1983 was as a result of a soured relationship with his colleague, the Aboderins, after they co-founder of The Punch, in 1971 one of the most widely read newspapers in Nigeria.
Earlier, he served as the Editor of Daily Times of Nigeria, and the first editor of the Sunday Punch before he established The Punch with his friend, the late Olu Aboderin, in 1971.
Owing to his demure and classy practice, Amuka-Pemu was described as a “Gentleman of the Press” by President Muhammadu Buhari on his 80th birthday. He was also described as an icon and a leading light in Nigerian journalism by Nduka Obaigbena, President of the Newspaper Proprietors’ Association of Nigeria.
Today, he is revered as the oldest practising media professional in Nigeria, and has been cited by peers. A book entitled From 1939 to the Vanguard of Modern Journalism written by Kola Muslim Animasaun, who also trained under him, acknowledged his immense contributions to journalism in Nigeria.
On this 90th birthday, the media world rises in unison to raise oa toast to one of the very best the industry has produced, Prince Sam Amuka-Pemu.
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Headline
Soyinka Advises Tinubu to Probe Unresolved Killings
Published
3 days agoon
June 16, 2025By
Eric
Nobel Laureate Professor Wole Soyinka has urged President Bola Tinubu to immediately launch a probe into the strange circumstances that led to the deaths of some Nigerians, including the likes of Dele Giwa, Bola Ige and Kudirat Abiola, for the sake of giving some closure to the matter.
While speaking with selected journalists in Lagos on Saturday, the renowned author said some Nigerians around the world have and could provide clues to the killings.
Soyinka has been speaking on the occasion of Nigeria’s Democracy Day, which was marked on June 12, 2025, where President Tinubu addressed the joint session of the National Assembly and awarded national honours to some of the heroes of the struggle.
While he praised the national honours, he said there were several omissions of heroes on the list, adding that he believed the honoured participants were a representation of the rest of the people in the struggle.
Soyinka revealed that he will be dedicating his honours to the memory of Late Beko Ransom-Kuti, who he described as a defender of human rights, champion of good governance, and campaigner for democracy, who was detained and jailed several times by the Nigerian military.
He warned that no one should make light of the weight and importance of the June 12 struggle, as many people died, and many others were greatly injured by the military junta, which killed, tortured, and imprisoned Nigerians at the time.
Soyinka’s plea comes after the presidency on Saturday denied it awarded national honours to human rights activist Aisha Yesufu and 35 others.
Names of the heroes of democracy were announced by President Tinubu on Thursday, June 13, as part of the activities marking the 2025 Democracy Day celebration. Only 66 awardees were announced at the joint sitting of the National Assembly in Abuja.
Among the posthumous awardees were a former Chief of Staff, Shehu Musa Yar’Adua; a former NEC Chairman who oversaw the 1993 elections, Prof. Humphrey Nwosu; and the wife of MKO Abiola and martyr of the June 12 struggle, Kudirat Abiola.
The President also granted a posthumous state pardon to renowned environmental activist Ken Saro-Wiwa and the rest of the Ogoni Nine, three decades after their controversial execution by the Sani Abacha-led military regime.
The nine other activists were also acknowledged for their sacrifices in the struggle for environmental justice and democratic ideals in Nigeria.
“I shall also be exercising my powers under the prerogative of mercy to grant these national heroes a full pardon, together with others whose names shall be announced later in conjunction with the National Council of State,” he said.
Each of the eight was conferred with the national honour of Officer of the Order of the Niger, OON, while Ken Saro-Wiwa was awarded the Commander of the Order of the Niger, CON.
This marks the first time a Nigerian President has officially acknowledged the role of the Ogoni Nine in the national democratic journey and taken steps toward state-led rehabilitation of their legacy.
The Ogoni Nine were prominent members of the Movement for the Survival of the Ogoni People (MOSOP), which campaigned against environmental degradation in the Niger Delta caused by oil exploration. Their execution drew global outrage, including Nigeria’s temporary suspension from the Commonwealth of Nations in 1995.
Those honoured alongside Saro-Wiwa include Saturday Dobee, Nordu Eawo, Daniel Gbooko, Paul Levera, Felix Nuate, Baribor Bera, Barinem Kiobel, and John Kpuine, all executed in 1995 after a military tribunal found them guilty in a trial widely condemned by international human rights groups as flawed and politically motivated.
Source: Channels TV
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