馃嚦馃嚞NigeriaWest Africa
Nigerian lawmakers clash over minority leader forgery allegations
via Punch Nigeria5 min read
A heated confrontation erupted in the Nigerian House of Representatives during a session on Thursday, stemming from a dispute over the leadership of the opposition caucus. Mr. Philip Agbese, representing Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo Federal Constituency, accused fellow lawmaker Ikenga Ugochinyere, representing Ideato North/Ideato South Federal Constituency, of forging his signature on a document purportedly nominating Ugochinyere for the position of Minority Leader. Agbese stated he never signed such a document, despite discussions with Ugochinyere, and called for an investigation into what he described as an attempt to damage his reputation. He also denied receiving money to support any candidate. Speaker Abbas Tajudeen acknowledged the complaint and assured an investigation, while also announcing a closed-door meeting for minority lawmakers to address the leadership crisis. Ugochinyere, in turn, denied the forgery, claiming Agbese personally endorsed his nomination form in front of witnesses and that his bid has overwhelming support from opposition members. The exchange led to a shouting match in the chamber, highlighting deep divisions within the opposition bloc. This confrontation occurs amid uncertainty in the opposition caucus following political shifts and the defection of the former Minority Leader, Kingsley Chinda. The outcome of the Speaker's meeting is expected to be crucial in determining the future leadership of the minority caucus.
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Mohammed Idris, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, has congratulated Omoniyi Ibietan on his re-election as Secretary-General of the African Public Relations Association APRA. The Minister stated that Ibietan's re-election is a recognition of his professionalism, dedication, and contributions to the public relations profession across Africa. Ibietan was re-elected during the APRA General Assembly in Swakopmund, Namibia, where Arik Karani of Kenya became President and Professor Michele Mekeme of Cameroon was elected Vice-President. Idris, in a statement by his Special Assistant Media, Rabiu Ibrahim, noted that the election outcome reflects the confidence public relations professionals across Africa have in Ibietan's leadership and capacity to advance the association's vision. The Minister expressed optimism that Ibietan will continue to provide purposeful leadership and support APRA's efforts to promote ethical communication and Africa's digital transformation agenda. He also commended APRA for its commitment to strengthening the public relations profession and promoting ethical communication across Africa, adding that Nigeria looks forward to hosting the 37th APRA Annual Conference alongside the World Public Relations Forum in Abuja later this year. Founded in 1975, APRA is the umbrella body for public relations practitioners across Africa, promoting professional excellence, ethical communication, and collaboration among communication professionals.
The Nigerian community in Poland has welcomed Nigeria's Ambassador-designate to the Republic of Poland, Mrs. Chioma Ohakim, at a reception held in Warsaw. The community pledged full support for her mission and expressed optimism that her tenure will strengthen diplomatic, economic, and cultural relations between Nigeria and Poland. Adekunle Ayoola, Chairman of the APC Support Group and leader of the City Boy Movement in Poland, congratulated Ohakim, noting her public service record and leadership. He stated that the community is confident she will enhance cooperation in trade, investment, education, technology, and cultural exchanges, and foster unity among Nigerians in Poland. Dr. Emanuel Kalejaiye, Chairman of the Nigerian Diaspora Community in Poland, highlighted the strong bond between the embassy and the Nigerian community, which has existed for over four decades. He affirmed the diaspora's commitment to dialogue, cooperation, and partnership for Nigeria's development and the welfare of Nigerians in Poland, also thanking the Polish government for its hospitality. Ohakim, a lawyer, thanked the community for the warm reception and pledged to strengthen bilateral relations, calling for their support and cooperation. The event was attended by former Imo State Governor Ikedi Ohakim, leaders of Nigerian organizations in Poland, and members of the Nigerian diaspora community.
BreakingAt least 50 Malian soldiers were killed and 24 taken prisoner in an attack by Tuareg separatists and jihadists on Saturday as they departed the northern town of Anefis. The attack targeted an army convoy and was claimed by the Tuareg separatist FLA and the Al-Qaeda-affiliated Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims JNIM. A local elected official, close to the ruling junta, described it as the deadliest attack on the Malian army in years. An army source indicated that some soldiers were executed and an investigation is underway into tactical failures. Russian paramilitaries, who had been supporting the army, had already reached their destination in Gao and did not suffer any casualties. The Malian army acknowledged the ambush by "terrorist armed groups" but did not provide casualty figures at the time. Mali has been under military rule since coups in 2020 and 2021, with the junta facing challenges in restoring security amidst ongoing unrest.