PINK REPUBLIC/ MY BLOG IS A STORY MARATHON.

 IBB defends executing childhood friend, family demands restitution Former Head of State, General Ibrahim Babangida (retd.), has revealed details of the foiled coup allegedly led by his childhood friend, General Mamman Vatsa, which he says compelled him to choose between preserving a longstanding personal bond and safeguarding the nation’s future. In excerpts from his autobiography, ‘A Journey of Service,’ launched on February 20, 2025, Babangida recounts how early warnings about Vatsa’s alleged plans reached him “as a series of rumours.” In Chapter 10 titled, ‘The Challenges of Leadership,’ the former military leader said though he initially dismissed the rumours as unfounded jealousy of the close relationship they bothshared since their youth, he consulted fellow officers, including Generals Nasko, Garba Duba, and Wushishi. Subsequent covert investigations by military and other intelligence agencies, he explained, uncovered “incontrovertible evidence” that Vatsa had funded office...

 Tinubu Flags-Off Reconstruction of Lagos-Ibadan-Sagamu Expressway President Bola Tinubu has flagged off the reconstruction and expansion of the Lagos-Ibadan Dual Carriageway, section 1, and section 1 of the Lagos-Sagamu Expressway. Performing the flag-off at Sagamu, Ogun State, President Tinubu said the project, which would be completed in 24 months, would cover underpasses at Kara, Wawa, Magboro, and Arepo, while flyover bridges would be constructed at Kilometer 16 around the Mountain of Fire Ministries (MFM) and Kilometer 37 at Makun around Sagamu. Pedestrian bridges, the president informed, would be constructed at Arepo, Magboro, NASFAT, Deeper Life, and Redemption Camp, while the construction of the 60 kilometers remaining portion of the Sagamu-Benin Expressway from Sagamu Interchange to Itele would be flagged off to ensure the safety of road users. Represented by the Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, the president acknowledged the strategic importance of the road as t...

 Customs WMC Cracks Down on Waterway Smuggling, Seizes 1,958kg of Cannabis Officers and Men of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Western Marine Command (WMC) have intercepted a major seizure of 1,958 kilograms of cannabis sativa worth N398,265,000. This seizure is the highest single operational seizure of cannabis sativa under the leadership of the Customs Area Controller (CAC) Comptroller Paul Bamisaiye.  During a press briefing on Friday, 21 February 2025, the CAC announced that 3,793 loaves of cannabis sativa were intercepted along the waterways near Bar Beach Outstation.  "Our officers, having received credible intelligence, were patrolling close to Ilase Sea Beach at about 200 nautical miles from the Lagos anchorage when they sighted the smugglers. They tried to outrun our officers, but when they couldn't, they decided to abandon their boat by jumping into the sea", the CAC stated.  The boat was quickly secured and brought to the office, where it was found to co...

 PDP wins all 30 LGAs in Osun The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has won all the chairmanship and councillorship seats in all the 30 local government areas (LGAs) in Osun State. The election for the seats were conducted today, February 22. The Chairman of the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission (OSSIEC), Hashim Abioye, announced this on Saturday, February 22. The election was held today despite calls by the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), Lateef Fagbemi, and the Police to suspend the elections. The AGF had argued that the Court of Appeal, Akure division, on February 10, 2025, nullified the judgement of the Federal High Court, Osogbo, delivered on November 25, 2022.He stated that the verdict of the appellate court implied that the All Progressives Congress (APC) local council chairmen formerly sacked by the lower court have been restored. The police on its own hinged the decision to call for a suspension of the polls on intelligence report of security threats durin...

 Air Peace CEO Hails Ekiti Airport, Declares It Among the World's Best The Chief Executive Officer of Air Peace Limited, Dr Allen Onyema, has commended Ekiti State Agro-Allied International Cargo Airport, describing it as one of the best in the world in terms of infrastructure and operational readiness. Dr Onyema, who arrived at the airport on Saturday at about 10 am aboard a Boeing 737 aircraft, lauded the quality of the apron, runway, and terminal building, stating that they are highly functional and aesthetically outstanding. Speaking with journalists after landing, he emphasised the airport’s potential as a strategic asset for domestic and international flights, positioning Ekiti State for significant aviation activities. He further noted that the facility is capable of accommodating larger aircraft, including the Boeing 777, and expressed his commitment to partnering with the state as soon as commercial operations commence. "This is the first time a Boeing 737 is landing ...

 Gasperini replies on Ademola Lookman case after that penalty story  “Lookman felt offended… but I did 𝐧𝐨𝐭 want to offend anyone! Ademola had entered with fantastic approach against Club Brugge and I do really value that highly”. “If he starts training to improve on penalties… with his exceptional skills Ademola can surely become our first penalty taker for the future”, Gasperini has also added. “I have the feeling that there is the will for Atalanta to be described as being like this, everything up in the air, but the reality is a bit different”.

 International Mother Language Day: Anambra Govt Urges Teachers, Parents, and Stakeholders to Promote Igbo Language for Sustainability By Ifeyinwa Ogwo The Anambra Commissioner for Culture, Entertainment, and Tourism, Mr. Don Onyenji, has called on teachers, parents, Ohaneze Ndigbo, and the Diaspora to promote the Igbo language in schools, homes, and social gatherings for its sustainability. The Commissioner made this statement during an interview in his office at the Jerome Udoji Secretariat in Awka, in honor of International Mother Language Day, which celebrates its "Silver Jubilee" this year, as initiated by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). This important day is commemorated every year on February 21. Mr. Onyenji emphasized the necessity of sustaining the Igbo language, noting that some individuals have neglected their traditional language in favor of the 'colonial language.' He referenced reports from UNESCO and the Br...

 International Mother Language Day 2025: Mayor Tony Nwora Sparks an Igbo Heritage Revival in Onitsha North By Claribel Udah/Chioma Nwankwo/Chika Obi  On International Mother Language Day 2025, Onitsha North LGA Mayor, Tony Nwora, delivered an inspiring address, urging the community to celebrate and preserve the rich heritage of the Igbo language.  "The native tongue is not only a means of communication but also the essence of the region’s identity and legacy." Nwora made this statement to commemorate International Mother Language Day 2025 at his office. Mayor Nwora highlighted the importance of maintaining indigenous language traditions in an increasingly globalized world.  He pointed out that while learning global languages opens up opportunities for international communication, the Igbo language remains the cornerstone of cultural continuity and pride.  "Our mother tongue connects us to our ancestors and shapes our identity. It is imperative that we nurture an...

 Onitsha Drug Market Seal : Traders Drag NAFDAC, SON, 2 Others To Court By Juliana Nwachukwu  Four traders at Ogbo Ogwu, Bridge Head Market, Onitsha, Anambra State, have dragged the Director General  (DG), of National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Standard Organization of Nigeria (SON),  NAFDAC Zonal Director, Southeast, Dr. Martins Iluyomede and Anambra State Commandant, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), (defendants ), to a Federal High Court sitting in Awka, over interference in their fundamental human rights. The four traders, (applicants), included, comrade Peter Okala, Alhaji Dr. Yunusa Tank, Prof Samuel Anidike and comrade C.C. Emereonwu, who are also members of Unite Nigeria Group, have through their counsel, Chibuike Nwabueze (Esq), prayed the court for  some reliefs against the defendants  The reliefs sought in suit No PHC/AWK/CS/40/2025, include, an order of the court restraining the respondents, the...

 Panel Recommends Speedy Demarcation of Boundaries Between Communities Engulfed in Land Dispute at Anambra North  By Uzo Ugwunze  Anambra North Traditional Rulers Council has condemned senseless and lingering conflict over land dispute between Umuoba Abegbu Anam community in Anambra West LGA  and Eziagulu-otu Aguleri community in Anambra East Local Government Area.  This was contained in a 6-point issued communique made available to newsmen shortly after bi-monthly Council meeting of Traditional Rulers of Anambra North Senatorial zone extraction held at Anambra East LG Secretariat, Otu-ocha. According to the monarchs, resorting to violence which could lead to loss of lives and property was neither in their culture nor what they were. In the communique signed by Chairman of the Anambra North Traditional Rulers Council, Igwe Joseph Ajodo, the royal fathers commiserated with families of the victims of the conflict. They solicited for the understanding and cooperati...

 Channels TV, AIT apologise to DSS over reports on Lagos Assembly crisis Channels Television and Africa Independent Television have apologised publicly to the Department of State Services(DSS) following their reports regarding the agency’s  appearance during the Lagos Assembly crisis on February 17. AIT News retracted their initial report  in an official statement during its News Hour program. It clarified that its reportage was based on eyewitness accounts but acknowledged that the information was however incomplete and had unintentionally misrepresented the intervention of the DSS. It said: “AIT News wishes to apologise to the Department of State Services for the news item broadcast during our bulletin on Monday 17th February 2025, regarding the presence of DSS at the Lagos State House of Assembly. “Our intention was not to malign or embarrass the DSS, an institution we hold in the highest regard for its critical role in safeguarding our nation. “Our reporting was based...

 CP ORUTUGU TAKES GOVERNOR SOLUDO ON FACILITY ASSESSMENT TOUR OF RAPID RESPONSE SQUAD FORMATION, AWKUZU _Commences Reorganisation of the Unit to Enhance Accountability and Transparency in Justice Dispensation_ In line with the Command’s commitment to transparency, strengthened security operations, and enhanced collaboration with the Anambra State Government, the Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, *CP Ikioye Orutugu, fwc, mnips, PhD,* today, 22nd February 2025, conducted a facility assessment tour of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) Formation in Awkuzu alongside His Excellency, *Professor Chukwuma Soludo,* the Executive Governor of Anambra State.   During the visit, *CP Orutugu* briefed the Governor on the operational readiness of the Command, particularly in its efforts to re-arrest the fleeing suspects involved in the heinous murder of *Hon. Justice Azuka,* a member representing Onitsha 1 Constituency in the Anambra State House of Assembly. He further outlined ...

FOR POLICE USE ONLY SPECIAL POLICE GAZETTE BULLETIN  Force Directive CID No 48 refers to this Bulletin and given details of rewards for the arrest of this persor  ISSUED BY THE AUTHORITY OF THE INSPECTOR-GENERAL OF POLICE, NIGERIA WANTED HAFSAT KABIR LAWAL(F) BABA SULE SADIQ (M) WANTED BY THE OFFICE OF THE COMMISSIONER OF POLICE, FCT POLICE COMMAND, ABUJA  NAME: HAFSAT KABIR LAWAL  NAME: BABA SULE SADIQ AGE LAST ADDRESS: No. 6 Kamba Close, Unguwar Dosa Kaduna & No. 2B Ramat Close B, Unguwar Rimi Kaduna OFFENCES: CRIMINAL CONSPIRACY, CHEATING& IMPERSONATION  If seen, arrest and hand over to the nearest Police Station, or to the office of the Commissioner of Police, FCT Police Command, Abuja, or call 0901779 2221 and 0811 111 4878.

  ‘Weakling’ — Abacha’s daughter posts cryptic message as IBB trends after book launch Gumsu, daughter of the late military head of state Sani Abacha, has shared a cryptic post on X, seemingly responding to former military president Ibrahim Babangida’s claims about her father’s role in the annulment of the June 12 presidential election. In a one-word post on her X handle on Friday, Gumsu wrote: “Weakling.” She made the post amid the ongoing conversations on the book, ‘A Journey in Service,’ the autobiography of Babangida, launched in Abuja on Thursday. In the 420-page memoir, Babangida addressed issues about the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election, which was won by the late MKO Abiola of the Social Democratic Party (SDP). Babangida described the annulment of the election as an “accident of history” that is “most regrettable”. The former military president, who oversaw the annulled election, said he was in Katsina when the cancellation of the election was announced...

 The Sanctification of Babangida By Ugoji Egbujo A man cancels a free and fair election. When crisis ensues, he panics and steps aside, foisting a one-legged contraption on the country. Soon, his co-conspirators are fed up with the pretence. They sweep away the props and seize power. And a plague feasts on the nation  A man cancels the freest and fairest election his county has seen. He knows the consequences will be calamitous. He cancels it and allows his country to slide into the most brutal dictatorship it has ever known. The brute is his best friend. All who stand stubbornly in the way are mowed down and buried. Kudirat. Rewane. Onagoruwa Jr. Etc. Some escape the bullets and live with fractured minds. Ibru, Adesanya etc. Those who are fearful of dying or of the opposition being decapitated run into exile to live like refugees. The country is treated as a leper for seven whole years.  A man anulls a credible election and puts his country on the precipice. Riots break ...

  Abacha plotted to overthrow me, kill Abiola -IBB Former Military President General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida(IBB) has claimed his comrade at arms, late General Sani Abacha, plotted to violently overthrow his administration, despite their deep relationship. He also said Abacha had deep-seated hatred for the claimed winner of the annuled June 12 election, Chief M.K.O Abiola, whom he said would have been eliminated by the Abacha-led “forces”. Babangida made these revelations in his autobiography “A Journey in Service” presented to the public on Thursday in Abuja. The former maximum leader said in the book that Abacha was one of his biggest headaches during his unending transition programme to civil rule. Admitting Abacha once saved his life and risked his life to ensure that he (Babangida) took over in 1985, the warlord of Minna Hilltop mansion described the Kano-born general as a complex character, whose intention cannot be easily understood. Babangida on pages 278 and 279 of the ...

 Botswana floods: Thousands displaced as schools shut Flash floods across Botswana have killed seven people including three children and uprooted thousands after days of heavy rains, President Duma Boko said on Saturday, Reuters reported. Authorities have temporarily shut schools and blocked roads following more than a week of downpours. "We will continue to work in the short term to mitigate further losses," Boko said in a televised address as over 1,700 people were evacuated from flood-stricken areas. In the capital Gabarone, where the local dam was overflowing, cars were washed away and properties waterlogged as emergency workers braced for more rain in coming days. Disaster management officials suggested that inadequate drainage in urban areas may have contributed to water building up in some of the worst hit low-lying areas. "We must relook at our infrastructure planning to determine that indeed our infrastructure on a national level can handle droughts as well as f...

Kaduna Faces Possible Blackout As Electricity Workers Issue 7-Day Ultimatum The National Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE) has given the Kaduna Electricity Distribution Company a seven-day ultimatum to resume negotiations over the recent issuance of "service no longer required" letters to some staff. In a statement, NUEE’s Zonal Organising Secretary for the North West, Ayuba Pukat, accused the management of disregarding previous discussions and proceeding with the termination letters. Earlier, on February 3, 2025, Kaduna Electric workers staged an indefinite strike over the planned dismissal of over 900 employees, plunging residents into a five-day blackout. The strike was suspended following Governor Uba Sani’s intervention, with an agreement for further negotiations. However, the union now claims the management has failed to uphold its part of the deal. With the fresh ultimatum issued, industrial action looms once again, threatening power supply in Kaduna if negotiation...

 The Federal Government has approved the establishment of a Food Processing Equipment and Machinery Development Institute (FOPEMDI) in Ekiti State, marking another milestone in the state's agricultural advancement.   In a letter addressed to Governor Biodun Oyebanji, the Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), Khalil Halilu, requested the provision of basic facilities, including land for a permanent site and a temporary location for the immediate take-off of the institute.   Reacting to the development, the State’s Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Mr Ebenezer Boluwade, expressed delight, noting that the state has benefited from multiple Federal Government interventions in recent weeks. He attributed this to the state government’s diligence, resourcefulness, and commitment to shared prosperity.   Boluwade expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu...

 "Anybody who însults me or my wife, Natasha again should be ready to fîght me. I am not afraid of anybody."  -2Baba "Those of you saying I am wîcked man for dîvorcing my first wife weren't in the marriage with me. I was the one who was married and I know what I was going through. You people should stop telling people how to live their lives. The marriage wasn't going and I quit. Did you people want me to stay there and dîe so you can type: 'He should've dîvorced?' I am not afraid of anybody or anything. I am living my life and all I want is to be happy. I don't wanna be a saint."

 "I SHOULD HAVE HAD A CHILD WITH WIZKID WHEN I HAD THE CHANCE TO" -Tonto Dikeh "This life is really unpredictable, almost a decade ago, I and Wizkid used to be really close friends like besties, we were always spotted together everywhere. Popular blogs like Linda Ikeji would gossip about us that we were dating and i will just come out to deny it. Wizzy was very young then, in his early 20's so i had that feeling of resentment of the backlash i would receive from the media. You know talks like Wizzy impregnating his big sister and all that cos i am way older than him. I wondered how people would see me, how my friends would rate me and how my family would take it because once in a while Wizzy would jokingly tell me "See I no mind if we run am". If i had knew he would grow this big to become the king of Afrobeats, i would have accepted o because right now he doesnt even remember we once had a thing in the past.  hahahaha! I still love him!"

 Former Redeemed Christian Fellowship President at  Onabanjo University (OOU), Ogun State, ex-Pastor Jimmy Adekoya, in the news after he got married to his male partner in the U.K. Pastor Jimmy was a firebrand preacher, music director and President of the RCF during his undergraduate days while studying Microbiology undergraduate between 2015-2019.  He later moved to the UK where he revealed his true sexuality of being gay and today, is 'happily married' to his male partner. More photos below.