Defence Minister Bello Matawalle backs President Tinubu’s emergency declaration in Rivers State, calling it vital for restoring stability

Bello Matawalle, the Minister of State for Defence, has strongly endorsed President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, citing the urgent need to restore stability to the state’s politically unstable environment.

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In a statement released on Tuesday by the Ministry’s Director of Information and Public Relations, Matawalle emphasised that the emergency rule is a crucial step in addressing the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State.

He argued that the crisis had significantly hindered the effective delivery of democratic governance and the welfare of the people.

Reflecting on the President’s address regarding the state of emergency, Matawalle acknowledged the severity of the political situation in the state and underscored the necessity of federal intervention.

He pointed to the continued disruption caused by the absence of a functioning state legislature, which has been non-operational for over fourteen months due to actions taken by the state’s governor.

“The demolition of the House of Assembly by the governor has left the state without a functioning legislature, contributing to the ongoing political impasse and making it difficult for the government to effectively serve the people,” Matawalle said in the statement.

The Minister also referenced a recent ruling by the Supreme Court, which reaffirmed the constitutional requirement for a functioning legislature, declaring the governor’s actions unconstitutional.

In addition, Matawalle raised concerns over recent reports of vandalism and militant threats in Rivers State, emphasising the critical need for collective efforts to restore peace and security.

He assured that the Federal Government is committed to ensuring the safety of all citizens and safeguarding essential infrastructure in the state.

“The Nigerian Military is on high alert to protect government facilities and ensure the security of Rivers State’s citizens,” Matawalle warned, adding that any attempts to attack government properties or disrupt public order would be met with a firm response from security forces.

The Minister urged all stakeholders in Rivers State to seize this opportunity for renewed governance and cooperation, expressing optimism that the state of emergency would ultimately pave the way for a peaceful, democratic, and prosperous future for the state.

The Baba Aladuras of the Cherubim and Seraphim Movement Church inaugurates new ICOP executives, focusing on spiritual growth and national unity

The Baba Aladuras and spiritual heads of the Cherubim and Seraphim Movement Church Worldwide (CSMC) have formally inaugurated a new executive for the Church’s International Council of Prophets (ICOP) in a ceremony that marks a significant milestone for the religious community.

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In his inauguration address, His Grace, Prophet Emmanuel Abiodun Alogbo, the Baba Aladura, urged the newly appointed executive to seek out fresh opportunities and leverage innovative ideas that will enhance the Church’s spiritual growth.

He emphasised the importance of these efforts not only for the Church but for the wider Christian community.

The Baba Aladura also highlighted the critical role of prayer, directing the ICOP to pray for the peace and stability of the nation.

His specific mention of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and other government officials underlined the Church’s commitment to supporting leadership through prayer.

Conference Supervising Prophet, Sp/Ap Pro Joel Adeniran, expressed his gratitude to the Church’s leadership for entrusting the new executive with this responsibility.

He assured attendees that the programmes and activities of the new ICOP would align closely with the Church’s broader vision for spiritual development.

As a central part of the Church’s mission, the ICOP will lead the way in initiating and coordinating prayer programmes aimed at fostering deeper spiritual growth within the Church.

One of their key priorities will be to review and update the ethics and practice guidelines for prophets and prophetesses within the movement, ensuring that all members adhere to the highest standards of conduct.

Looking ahead, the Conference Supervising Prophet also mentioned the forthcoming Annual Mount Horeb Ascension, an important spiritual event for the Church.

He encouraged both Church members and the general public to take part in this year’s Mount Horeb programme, marking it as a pivotal moment for spiritual engagement and community building.

The new ICOP leadership is expected to play an essential role in shaping the future of the Cherubim and Seraphim Movement Church, ensuring that the organisation continues to thrive spiritually and contribute positively to the wider community.

Otunba Gbenga Daniel  has expressed profound gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the historic federalisation of Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED).

In a statement released Sunday, March 9, the Senator described the landmark decision as “a watershed moment” for the people of Ogun East Senatorial District for the establishment of a federally-owned tertiary institution in the region.

“The federalization of TASUED, Nigeria’s first specialised university of education established in 2005, fulfills this aspiration while honoring our rich educational heritage,” Daniel stated.

Otunba Daniel noted that President Tinubu’s approval demonstrates his administration’s commitment to educational development and equitable distribution of federal institutions across Nigeria. He noted that the adoption pays tribute to the legacies of Chief Obafemi Awolowo, who pioneered free education in Western Nigeria, and Dr. Tai Solarin, a distinguished educator who dedicated his life to nurturing future leaders at Mayflower School, Ikenne.

According to the Senator, the adoption comes with minimal financial implications for the Federal Government as TASUED already boasts well-developed infrastructure and robust academic programs. With this federalization, Nigeria now has three specialized federal universities dedicated to developing exceptional educators, alongside Alvan Ikoku Federal University of Education in Owerri and Adeyemi Federal University of Education in Ondo.

“On behalf of the good people of Ogun East Senatorial District, I express our deepest appreciation to President Tinubu for this consideration. We are committed to supporting the institution’s successful transition and continued growth as a center of excellence in education,” the statement concluded.