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BREAKING: Court Throws Out Case Against 27 Defecting Rivers Lawmakers Backed by Wike
By Favour Bibaikefie
In a significant development from Port Harcourt, the Federal High Court has dismissed a lawsuit seeking to unseat 27 members of the Rivers State House of Assembly who were accused of switching party allegiance.
The suit, filed by the Labour Party, called for the removal of the lawmakers from office over their alleged defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Presiding over the matter, Justice Emmanuel A. Obile issued the ruling on Tuesday, effectively ending the legal challenge.
The decision was confirmed by Martins Nwachukwu, a media aide to Speaker Martins Amaewhule—one of the lawmakers at the center of the controversy—through a social media announcement.
During court proceedings, lawyers representing the lawmakers urged the court to strike out the case, referencing a recent ruling by the Supreme Court. They presented a Certified True Copy of the apex court’s judgment, which they argued validated Amaewhule’s leadership of the Assembly. The defense also pointed out that Governor Siminalayi Fubara had already withdrawn similar allegations in a related case before the Federal High Court in Abuja.
However, Clifford Chukwu, counsel for the Labour Party, maintained that the matter of defection was still a valid legal concern. He described it as a “collateral matter” and insisted the court should proceed, citing evidence already submitted in the case.
As of now, this remains a developing story, with political observers closely watching the implications for the ongoing power struggle in Rivers State.
By Favour Bibaikefie-Asaba
In a stunning political development that has sent shockwaves across Nigeria’s political landscape, Delta state Governor, Rt. Hon. Elder Sheriff Oborevwori, his godfather, former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, and the entire Delta state Chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have officially defected to All Progressive Congress (APC).
The announcement was made late Wednesday evening at the Government House in Asaba, following a closed door meeting that lasted over six hours. Senator James Manager, a long serving PDP stalwart and a key figure in the state’s politics,broke the news to journalists, describing the mass as a collective and unanimous decision.
“All PDP members in the state, including the governor,former Governor Okowa,the speaker,the state party chairman,all local government chairmen,and others,have agreed to move to the APC,”Manager declared. “We cannot continue to be in a sinking boat.” “The drum beats are changing in the political space of the country, we must also change our dance steps accordingly” Charles Aniagwu, the state Commissioner for Information added.
The move marks a major realignment in Delta State’s political terrain and could significantly reshape party dynamics ahead of the next electoral cycle. While no official reasons were provided beyond the metaphor of a “sinking boat” and “changing drumbeats”, insiders suggest deep dissatisfaction with the PDP’s national structure and internal division may have influenced the decision.
The duo also went on to announce that the Vice President Kasim Shetima will be in Asaba on Monday to receive the defected PDP members.
Of more importance is the place of APC bigwigs like the former Deputy Senate President, Chief Ovie Omo-Agege, Chief Festus Keyamo, etc. 2027 Governorship ambitions. Pundits have also speculated that rather than the APC taking over the PDP, it is the PDP that would likely uproot subsisting stallwarts of the APC, given the party’s deep taproots in the state.
As the news continues to unfold,political analyst are watching closely for reactions from the national leadership of both parties,as well as the implications this could have on upcoming elections in the South-south region.
More details to follow as this story develops.
By Favour Bibaikefie
Jos, Nigeria – Tensions reached a boiling point in Jos on Monday morning as residents, led by prominent Christian leaders, took to the streets to protest the persistent killings of indigenous people in Plateau State. The unrest is believed to stem from continuous attacks by suspected Fulani militants, which have left communities devastated and in mourning.
The demonstration, led by Rev. Polycarp Lubo, Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Plateau State, began at Fawvwei Junction, a key area in the city. The march caused heavy traffic congestion, stranding numerous commuters as the protesters made their way through major roads toward the Rayfield Government House.
This protest comes in the wake of a disturbing rise in violence, particularly in Bokkos and Bassa Local Government Areas. Reports from the last two weeks suggest that over 100 people have been killed in a series of brutal attacks on local villages.
“We are not happy over the continuous attacks and killings by gunmen in our communities. That’s why we have come out again to protest these happenings,” said Gyang Dalyop, one of the demonstrators, expressing the deep frustration felt by many.
Joining the call for urgent intervention, another protester, Hannatu Philip, implored the authorities to act swiftly to prevent further bloodshed. “The government must do something before the situation gets worse,” she told Phonix News.
Carrying placards bearing messages of grief and demand for justice, the protesters marched in solidarity, drawing attention to what they describe as a neglected crisis that continues to claim innocent lives.
The protest reflects a growing sense of urgency and fear among Plateau’s residents, as they plead for both immediate security measures and long-term solutions to restore peace in the region.
By Favour Bibaikefie
Vatican City – In a solemn announcement from the Casa Santa Marta on Easter Monday, the Vatican confirmed the passing of Pope Francis at the age of 88. Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Camerlengo of the Apostolic Chamber, delivered the official declaration at 9:45 a.m., noting that the Pontiff died peacefully at 7:35 a.m.
“With deep sorrow I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis,” Cardinal Farrell said, adding that the Pope “returned to the house of the Father” after a life devoted to faith, compassion, and the service of the Church, especially to those most in need.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis made history in 2013 as the first Jesuit Pope, the first from Latin America, and the first non-European to be elected in over a millennium. His papacy was defined by a pastoral approach to leadership, a strong focus on social justice, and a consistent outreach to the poor and marginalized.
Pope Francis had long struggled with health challenges, many of which traced back to a partial lung removal in his youth. In February of this year, he was hospitalized at the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic after battling bronchitis, which later developed into bilateral pneumonia. After more than five weeks of treatment, he returned to the Vatican to continue recovery, but his condition declined in recent weeks.
Despite his health issues, Pope Francis remained active in his duties and continued to inspire millions worldwide. In a significant gesture last year, he approved a revised and simplified version of the papal funeral liturgy, reflecting his humble spirit and desire for a modest farewell.
Archbishop Diego Ravelli, master of papal liturgical celebrations, confirmed that the Pope’s wishes for a simpler, pastorally oriented funeral will be fulfilled. “The funeral of the Roman Pontiff is that of a pastor and disciple of Christ,” he said.
Funeral details are expected to be released in the coming days, with faithful from around the globe likely to gather in mourning and tribute.
Pope Francis leaves behind a profound legacy of reform, mercy, and unwavering dedication to the message of the Gospel. As the Church prepares to bid farewell, the world remembers a leader who, above all, chose love, humility, and compassion.
May he rest in peace.