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Akwa Ibom commissioner condemns abuse of tradition

Published

4 days ago

September 17, 2025

The Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Frank Archibong, has condemned in the strongest terms recent abuses of tradition and culture in the state.

He cited specific instances of individuals using the internet to hurl insults at the Governor and a case where a masked individual inflicted physical harm on a citizen.

Disturbing footage of one Princess Udoito, summoning the state governor, Umo Eno, before a deity of Eket, had surfaced on social media. Dressed in tight black clothes with rafia leaves knotted around her ankle and waist, Udoito was seen standing before a tree, clutching a local bottle of gin and performing a ritual.

Speaking during a visit to the Traditional Rulers Council in Uyo on Wednesday, Archibong emphasised that while the government cherishes and promotes culture, it will not tolerate its perversion into a tool for violence and intimidation.

He therefore directly appealed to the Royal Fathers, as custodians of peace and order, to curtail such excesses within their domains.

“While the state government is not against culture, it will not condone harmful practices against the people in its name,” he stated.

He also called for unified and sustained support from traditional rulers for Governor Umo Eno’s administration and its transformative ARISE agenda.

Archibong stated that the depth and quality of the Governor’s development blueprint for the state necessitate a broad coalition of support from every sector.

While thanking the Royal Fathers for their support thus far, Archibong passionately appealed for this collaboration to continue through the Governor’s first term and beyond, adding that such an enduring partnership is crucial to consolidating the developmental gains already achieved.

“This support for the governor has been remarkable, and I’m sure it will continue. We must support him in all ramifications, 360 degrees,” Archibong declared.

He assured the monarchs that their efforts are highly valued, noting, “I appreciate the royal fathers for their work, and I know the governor does not take their contributions for granted.”

He described the traditional institution as the bedrock of societal stability, indispensable for ensuring order and fostering an environment where government policies can flourish for the benefit of all citizens.

Reflecting on his own experience as a former Council Chairman, the Commissioner acknowledged the relentless service and challenges faced by traditional rulers and expressed profound gratitude for their steadfast backing.

On civic duties, the Commissioner urged the traditional leaders to champion the ongoing voter registration exercise, as the response so far has been unimpressive.

He explained that as key influencers, their role is critical in strengthening the state’s democratic foundations by ensuring a fully enrolled electorate, which is essential for fair political representation and development planning.

The Commissioner also highlighted the upcoming state anniversary celebrations on September 23rd, an event designed to honour the traditional institution and therefore called for their full cooperation to ensure its success, framing it as a testament to the government’s respect for the royalty.

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‘I Will Fire You If You Get Involved In Bribery, Corruption’ – Gov Otti Warns Appointees

Published

9 hours ago

September 21, 2025

Oluwagbenga Olaoye

Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has vowed to sack any appointee in his administration who gets involved in bribery and corruption.

This comes two weeks after the Abia State government sacked six officials of the Ministry of Justice for allegedly padding their salaries.

It was reports that Governor Otti, while worshipping at Abayi District of the Seventh-Day Adventist Church, Aba Conference, said bribery and corruption are not involved in his administration.

He said that his participation in Abia politics was to restore the dignity of the state, in line with the honesty Igbos were known for.

Otti warned his appointees that they would lose their jobs if they indulged in corruption.

He said, “If anybody tells you to bring money for anything, tell him it is a lie. He is a dupe, because he will collect the money from you and still not do anything for you.

“That is why you will never see bribery and corruption in this government. If you get involved, I will fire you.

“We are intolerant of corruption and nobody can plead for you. If you get involved in bribery and corruption, you are gone.”

Governor Otti said that the recent employment of 5,394 teachers in the state was based on merit, without any of the employees paying a dime.

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Ooni Visits Olubadan-designate, Ladoja In Ibadan

Published

9 hours ago

September 21, 2025

Oluwagbenga Olaoye

The Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Ogunwusi, has paid a visit to the Olubadan-designate, Rashidi Ladoja.
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It was reports that the paramount rulers met on Sunday at Ladoja’s Bodija private residence in Ibadan, Oyo State.

Oba Ladoja will be installed as the 44th Olubadan on Friday, September 26, 2025, following the demise of the 43rd Olubadan, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, who joined his ancestors on Monday, July 7, 2025, at the age of 90 years.

Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu will be in Ibadan on Friday to attend the coronation of Oba Ladoja as the 44th Olubadan of Ibadanland.

The ceremony will take place at the historic Mapo Hall grounds, attracting Yoruba monarchs, state governors, political leaders, business figures, and thousands of Ibadan indigenes at home and abroad.

The coronation is the peak of a weeklong celebration that begins on Monday, September 22.

According to the planning committee, the events will start with an interdenominational service at the Olubadan Palace, followed by a cultural fiesta on Tuesday at Olubadan Stadium.

A lecture will hold on Wednesday at the University of Ibadan, while Thursday will feature a praise and worship concert tied to Oba Ladoja’s 81st birthday.

The grand ceremony comes up on Friday, and a thanksgiving service on Sunday at Oke Padre Cathedral, with a Jumat service on October 3, will close the programme.

Security has been placed at the center of the preparations, with more than 2,000 operatives from the Police, Civil Defence, DSS, Amotekun Corps, and OYRTMA expected to maintain order during the celebrations.

The Oyo State Government also confirmed that the event will be broadcast live on television, radio, and online platforms for Nigerians in the diaspora.

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Post Views: 41

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Nigeria owes you more than many will ever know.- President Tinubu tells his wife, Remi, as she turns 65

Published

12 hours ago

September 21, 2025

Oluwagbenga Olaoye

President Tinubu is in a celebratory mood as his wife and first lady of Nigeria, Remi Tinubu, turns 65.

In a tribute to her, the President described Remi as his confidant, counsellor, and the steady flame illuminating his path.

He celebrated her sacrifice Nigeria and stated that Nigeria ‘owes her more than many will ever know.’ He went on to pray and profess his love for her.

His tribute reads

‘’Oluremi Mi,

As you celebrate your 65th birthday today, I honour not only the love of my life, but also a woman whose quiet strength and enduring grace have been my steadying anchor. Through every season, from the long years of struggle and political exile, to leadership responsibilities, you have stood firmly by my side with dignity, patience, and devotion that words can scarcely express.

You are more than my wife. You are my confidant, counsellor, and the steady flame illuminating my path. In you, our children and grandchildren see the example of compassion and faith, and in you, our nation sees the true strength of womanhood; resolute yet tender, humble yet unshakably firm.

Nigeria owes you more than many will ever know. In every sacrifice you made quietly, in every burden you carried without complaint, you have served this country as surely as I have, not from the podium, but from the heart of our home.

Today, as your husband, I thank God for your life, health, and unwavering love. As your President, I salute you as the First Lady whose warmth and empathy continue to touch millions of lives across our land. And as your lifelong companion, I say that I love you more than ever, and am blessed every day by your presence. Your love is a treasure I hold dear.

Happy 65th birthday, Oluremi

@SenRemiTinubu

. May the years ahead be filled with joy, peace, and the fulfilment you so richly deserve.

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