WAFFI TV | Feature

Court Stops Pro~Wike Rally In Bayelsa

The Bayelsa State High Court, sitting in Yenagoa, has issued a restraining order preventing associates of the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, from staging a mega rally in the state. The order remains in effect pending the hearing and determination of a motion on notice. The rally was scheduled to take place in Yenagoa, the state capital, on April 12, 2025. The ex-parte motion, filed by the Bayelsa State Attorney General, Biriyai Dambo (SAN), in Suit No. BYHC/YHC/CV/133/2025, was granted by Hon. Justice I.A. Uzakah. “An order of the interim injunction is hereby made or granted restraining the 1st and 2nd Defendants, whether by themselves, their agents, associates, privies, representatives (or any person whatsoever acting at their behest), from conducting, convening, coordinating, engaging in, organizing, participating in, holding, hosting, or facilitating any political assembly, rally meeting, or gathering within Bayelsa State, for the purpose of solidarity, hosting, and celebrating the 2nd Defendant in Bayelsa State, pending the hearing and determination of the Motion on Notice for Interlocutory Injunction,” the court order read. The matter was adjourned until April 11, 2025, for hearing.

4/4/2025, 11:43:51 AM

I'll Soon Present Sexual Assault Evidence Against Akpabio~ Natasha

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central says she will soon reveal evidence of sexual harassment against Senate President Godswill Akpabio. “At the right time and at the right space, I will present the evidence that I have,” the female lawmaker said on Channels Television’s Politics Today programme on Thursday. She also said though belated, the decision of the electoral umpire INEC to reject a petition for her recall was in the right direction. “I’m a lawyer. I’m a senator and I understand how Nigeria works. For me, the most important thing is this recall process has been stalled. “I give kudos and credit to INEC even though I believe they should have thrown it away from the get-go,” she said.

4/4/2025, 10:05:28 AM

South Korea Court Removes Impeached President Yoon

South Korea’s top court on Friday unanimously removed impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol from office following his controversial martial law declaration, sparking fresh elections after months of political unrest. The 64-year-old leader had been suspended by lawmakers for his December 3 attempt to undermine civilian authority by deploying armed troops to parliament. He was also arrested on separate insurrection charges. Millions of Koreans watched the Constitutional Court deliver its ruling live on television, while KakaoTalk, the nation’s main messaging app, reported delays due to a surge in user traffic. “Given the serious negative impact and far-reaching consequences of the respondent’s constitutional violations… (We) dismiss respondent President Yoon Suk Yeol,” acting court President Moon Hyung-bae said while delivering the ruling. Yoon’s removal, which is effective immediately, triggers fresh presidential elections, which must be held within 60 days. Authorities will announce a date in the coming days. Outside the court, AFP reporters heard Yoon supporters shouting threats that they wanted to kill the judges, who decided unanimously to uphold Yoon’s impeachment, and have been given additional security protection by police. Yoon’s actions “violate the core principles of the rule of law and democratic governance”, the judges said in their ruling. Yoon sending armed soldiers to parliament in a bid to prevent lawmakers from voting down his decree “violated the political neutrality of the armed forces”. He deployed troops for “political purposes”, the judges added. “In the end, the respondent’s unconstitutional and illegal acts are a betrayal of the people’s trust and constitute a serious violation of the law that cannot be tolerated,” they ruled. Opposition party lawmakers clapped their hands as the verdict was announced, calling it “historic”, while lawmakers from Yoon’s party filed out of the courtroom. Yoon apologised for failing to meet the people’s “expections” in a brief statement released after the verdict. Yoon becomes the second South Korean president to be impeached by the court, following Park Geun-hye’s removal in 2017. Following weeks of intense hearings, the judges took over a month to deliberate as public discontent grew. On Friday, police raised the security alert to its highest level, surrounding the courthouse with a fleet of vehicles and deploying special operations units nearby.

4/4/2025, 9:48:35 AM

We’re Putting Together New 2025 Budget For Rivers~ Sole Administrator

The Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retired), announced on Thursday that a 2025 appropriation bill is being formulated to address critical development priorities in healthcare, education, agriculture, and infrastructure. He added that the proposed budget would also focus on job creation for Rivers residents and enhancing technological advancements in key public sectors. Ibas shared this update while hosting a delegation from the Rivers State caucus at the National Assembly, led by Senator Barinada Mpigi of Rivers South-East District, at Government House, Port Harcourt. The delegation included Senator Allwell Onyesoh, House of Representatives Minority Leader Hon. Kingsley Chinda, along with Hon. Dumnamene Dekor, Hon. Solomon Bob, Hon. Cyril Godwin Hart, Hon. Blessing Amadi, Hon. Felix Nwaeke, Hon. Kelechi Nwogu, and Hon. Victor Obuzor. Since assuming office, Ibas reaffirmed his commitment to restoring law and order in Rivers State. With security agencies' support, he said a safer environment has been established, ensuring residents feel valued and protected. He emphasized his administration’s goal of making Rivers a model of peace, with a stable economy where citizens can pursue their livelihoods without fear or intimidation. “In addition to our peace building efforts, we are also focused on the economic stability and development of Rivers State,” he stated. “Since the Supreme Court verdict on the state’s budget, we have acted swiftly and decided to put together a new budget that reflects our commitment to healthcare, education, social services, and continued infrastructural development. “We have worked diligently to ensure that the process is transparent, inclusive, and most importantly expedited. Our goal is to ensure that we do not lose any more time in making the necessary investments that will improve the lives of citizens. “The budget which is been finalized focuses on creating job opportunities and investing in key sectors such as agriculture, infrastructure, and technology. We understand the urgency of this initiative, and we are committed to ensuring that they are implemented without delay.” The Administrator noted that to get the task done, the support of the legislators will be required as key representatives of Rivers State in the National Assembly. He sued for their assistance in securing the necessary resources and legislative backing that would bring the initiative of his administration to fruition. “Your partnership is critical to success in ensuring that Rivers State remains on the path of progress and enduring peace for future generations,” Ibas stated. He stated that, in response to the challenges that led to President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers, his administration prioritized dialogue, community engagement, and reconciliation to rebuild public trust. Ibas acknowledged the remarkable resilience and patience of Rivers State residents in supporting efforts to restore peace and uphold the rule of law. He reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to securing lasting peace for the state. “Beyond security, we have prioritised community engagements as a central part of our strategy. Dialogue, reconciliation, and inclusivity have been key to building trust among our people. “We are determined to strengthen the bond of unity in Rivers State and to foster an environment where every citizen feels valued, heard, and respected. Together, we are making strides in ensuring that peace becomes a permanent feature of our state.”

4/3/2025, 8:31:25 PM

Rivers Govt Cancels Pending Procurement, Tender Processes

The Rivers State Government has annulled all ongoing procurement and tender processes conducted by its Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs). In a statement on Wednesday, Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Ibibia Worika, said the decision aligns with the Supreme Court’s ruling upholding the Appeal Court’s judgment in Suit No. CA/ABJ/CV/133/2024. Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, the Administrator of Rivers State, has directed all affected MDAs to refund tender fees paid by contractors during the period. The refund process must be completed immediately, pending approval of a state spending plan. The government assured residents that further updates on financial planning and procurement procedures would be provided in due course.

4/3/2025, 7:34:17 PM

Burutu LG Boss Pledges Sustainable Growth As IPF Inspects Projects

The Executive Chairman of Burutu Local Government Area, Delta State, Dr. Julius Takeme, has reaffirmed his commitment to sustainable development across the council. Speaking on Wednesday during a courtesy visit by the Ijaw Publishers Forum (IPF) at the local government secretariat, Takeme reiterated his administration’s resolve to enhance Burutu’s developmental status. The visit marked the beginning of an inspection tour by IPF, a coalition of media executives, across Ijaw local government areas nationwide. Addressing the delegation, Takeme emphasized his administration’s alignment with Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s MORE AGENDA, which has driven significant infrastructural changes within one year. “Guided by the MORE AGENDA, we have prioritized Burutu’s transformation, including the construction of a one-kilometer internal road network,” he stated. The Olotu of Obotebe Kingdom highlighted key initiatives in public health, environmental sanitation, housing, and civil service welfare. These include renovating health centers in Labulouseigha and Ofougbene, constructing senior staff housing, and building quarters for the customary court president. Other projects include three modern public toilets, medical supply distribution, and employing over 2,000 women for environmental sanitation. Takeme also hinted at upcoming projects set for commissioning ahead of his one-year anniversary in office. IPF President Comrade Austin Ozobo commended Takeme’s efforts, urging him to sustain the momentum and deliver more development for the people of Burutu.

4/3/2025, 4:49:26 PM

I Didn’t Collapse~ Wike

Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, on Thursday dismissed social media reports claiming he collapsed last week, calling them the work of individuals seeking to gain cheap political advantage. Wike made the statement after inspecting four ongoing projects in the territory, including the International Conference Centre (ICC).

4/3/2025, 4:28:20 PM

Kaduna Police Officer Threatens Retaliation Against Southerners Over Uromi Killings

A Kaduna State police officer, Hadaina Hussaini Dan-Taki, has threatened retaliation against southerners residing in northern Nigeria. Dan-Taki's statement came in response to the brutal killing of 16 northerners in Uromi, Esan North East Local Government Area of Edo State. In a heated Facebook comment on Tuesday, Dan-Taki swore by Almighty God, declaring that northerners would take decisive action against southerners. Dan-Taki wrote, “I swear to Almighty God, we must do something for you guys, have you forgotten all your brothers that are leaving here in the North make my word, after one week you shall see the result.” In response to mounting criticism following the comment, Dan-Taki changed his first name and restricted access to his Facebook page, limiting users’ ability to view his posts and comments.

4/2/2025, 4:20:26 PM

Nigerian Army Begins Recruitment Of Tradesmen, Non~Tradesmen

The Nigerian Army has begun enlisting tradesmen, non-tradesmen, and women for its 89th regular recruits intake. This was announced on its X handle on Tuesday. The statement read, “The Nigerian Army wishes to inform the general public that the online application for 89 Regular Recruits Intake for Non-Tradesmen and Women will commence for all interested candidates. “Application is free for interested candidates. Applicants are advised to apply once, as multiple applications will lead to disqualification. Interested applicants can log on to http://recruitment.army.mil.ng to complete online registration from March 31 to May 17, 2025. “Shortlisted candidates are expected to report to their respective states of origin for the screening exercise, which will take place from 2– 16 June 2025.” The application website offers additional instructions for eligible candidates on the application process, detailing the required criteria. “Applicants must be single and Nigerian citizens by birth, and must possess a National Identity Card/NIN and BVN printout, and must be medically, physically, and psychologically fit by Nigerian Army Standards. “Applicants must be free of any criminal conviction by the court of law. They must possess a valid birth certificate endorsed by the National Population Commission, Hospital, or Local Government Council, or an age declaration. “Applicants must possess a valid certificate of state of origin and must not be less than 1.68 metres and 1.65 metres tall for male and female candidates respectively,” the post read.

4/2/2025, 9:58:22 AM

Defend Yourselves Against Terrorists~ DSS Chief Tells Nigerians

The Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Mr. Adeola Oluwatosin Ajayi, has emphasized that Nigerians must take charge of their own security, as the military, police, and intelligence agencies lack the capacity to safeguard every community from terrorist threats nationwide. Speaking during a public engagement broadcast by Symfoni, Ajayi cited past incidents in Bauchi State, where local communities successfully repelled Boko Haram insurgents without waiting for security forces. "Speaking seriously about the practical approach to mobilising against insecurity, I will share my experience when I was a State Director in Bauchi," Ajayi said. "Most of you will remember an incident in Azare. A group of Boko Haram terrorists invaded Azare, shooting in an attempt to kidnap people. But the community fought back. They killed some members of the community, but in the end, the people killed all of them. Since that day, there has not been a single terrorist attack in Azare." Ajayi went further to cite former dictator General Ibrahim Babangida (retd.) as endorsing the idea of community-led resistance. "As a matter of fact, the former Head of State, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, said, and I quote, ‘If we want to stop or curb terrorism, we should emulate the Azare example.’" According to Ajayi, Tafawa Balewa Local Government in Bauchi State also serves as a case study of community defence. He said: "The people there rose up on one occasion. They knew their terrain better, climbed up the trees and mountains, and when the invaders came, they not only stopped them but also seized their weapons. Since then, you hardly hear about attacks in Tafawa Balewa. "What I am trying to say is that the practical approach to mobilising people is that you have to get everyone involved. You cannot expect the Nigerian Army, police, or DSS to protect every Nigerian in every community. “It is impossible to deploy security forces everywhere. No security agency has the resources to do that." Ajayi urged Nigerians to rethink their approach to self-defence, emphasising that communities must serve as the "first line of defence" against terrorists and other criminals. "The military, police, and other security agencies are there to handle the bigger threats. But communities must take responsibility for defending themselves at the local level. “Our culture is communal. We do things together—weddings, ceremonies, and everything. So why can’t we fight against some of the miscreants among us together? The community should make it clear: ‘You cannot come here.’ "This is what Tafawa Balewa has done. If you go there to attack them, you will regret it. I challenge anybody to try it." Ajayi called on Nigerian elites and influential figures to encourage this model in their communities. "When we leave here, those of us who have influence, the elites in society, must discuss with our communities. Come to us, get some approvals and guidance, and then we can stop these criminals,” he added.

4/2/2025, 8:23:51 AM

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