Obasanjo: “Nigeria’s Progress Is Stagnated by Leadership’s Flawed Mentality”

Former Nigerian President, Olusegun Obasanjo, has expressed concerns over Nigeria’s stagnation, stating that the country’s progress is being hindered by the mindset of its leaders. Speaking on Friday, Obasanjo emphasized that for Nigeria to move forward, those in positions of power must undergo a critical self-examination and change their mentality.

In his address, delivered during a meeting with six members of the House of Representatives, Obasanjo described Nigeria as a nation that often takes “two steps forward and two steps backward.” He highlighted that while there have been calls for reforms, such as a single-term Presidency, nationwide elections in one day, and the rotation of power between the North and South, these measures alone are not enough to steer the country in the right direction.

The lawmakers present included Ugochinyere Ikenga (Ideato North and South Federal Constituency, Imo State), Abdulmalik Danga (Adavi/Okehi), Usman Midala (Askira-Uba/Hawul), Peter Aniekwe (Anambra East/West), and Kama Nkemkanma (Ohaozara/Onicha/Ivo).

Obasanjo’s remarks underscore the need for a deeper, more introspective approach to governance in Nigeria, where true progress can only be achieved through a collective change in leadership mentality.

Issa Hayatou, Former CAF President, Passes Away at 77

Issa Hayatou, the long-serving former President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), has died at the age of 77. Hayatou passed away on Thursday after battling a prolonged illness, just a day before his 78th birthday.

Hayatou, a Cameroonian sports executive, served as the head of CAF for 29 years, from 1988 to 2017. His tenure saw significant developments in African football, but it was also marred by controversies, including his involvement in a bribery scandal that led to punishment from the International Olympic Committee (IOC) in 2011.

In addition to his role at CAF, Hayatou also served as the acting President of FIFA from 2015 to 2016, following the suspension of Sepp Blatter.

Hayatou’s passing marks the end of an era in African football, leaving behind a legacy that will be remembered by both his achievements and controversies.

NLC Calls Emergency NEC Meeting After Labour House Invasion

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has called for an emergency National Executive Council (NEC) meeting following the invasion of its headquarters in Abuja. The invasion occurred late Wednesday night when heavily armed policemen and others in plain clothes stormed the NLC Headquarters, commonly known as Labour House.

The incident, which saw the officers ransacking the Second and 10th floors of the building, has sparked widespread condemnation from various organizations, including the Labour Writers Association of Nigeria (LAWAN).

In response to the invasion, the NLC leadership has summoned an emergency NEC meeting to discuss the situation and chart a course of action. The invasion has raised concerns about the safety of labour leaders and the potential implications for labour relations in the country.

Tinubu’s Second Term in Jeopardy as Northern Leaders Plan Political Coup—Primate Ayodele

Primate Elijah Ayodele, leader of the INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, has predicted challenges for President Bola Tinubu’s potential second term, citing opposition from Northern political leaders. According to Primate Ayodele, the North is likely to orchestrate a political coup to prevent Tinubu from securing a second term in office in 2027.

In a statement released on Friday, Ayodele’s media aide, Osho Oluwatosin, conveyed the prophet’s message, warning that several events could unfold that may negatively impact Tinubu’s administration. He hinted at the possibility of increased tensions leading to a “technical separation” between the North and other parts of Nigeria, though he dismissed the likelihood of a military coup.

Primate Ayodele’s prophecy has added to the growing speculation about the political landscape in Nigeria as the country approaches the next election cycle.