The arrest and detention of lawyer and human rights advocate, @DeleFarotimi, is unequivocally condemned. It serves as a grim reminder of the dark days of military dictatorship when the iron fist of tyranny sought to crush all dissent. I am made aware that Dele is being accused of defamation — an offense that, under normal circumstances, should not warrant the involvement of law enforcement. The Police’s intervention in such matters is nothing less than the use of a sledgehammer to swat a fly, an overreach of unimaginable proportions.
This alarming trend, particularly the recent abduction — or rather, the arrest — of Dele Farotimi, is emblematic of this administration's insidious agenda to suffocate the fundamental right to free expression. The aim is clear: to intimidate and harass citizens, particularly those who oppose the regime and the press, thus paving the way for the establishment of a one-party state. It is imperative to remind the Tinubu administration that these repeated acts of arrest stand in direct contradiction to the principles of democracy.
Freedom of speech and association are not privileges but constitutionally enshrined rights. If anyone feels wronged by defamatory words, they are free to seek redress in the courts, not at the hands of the state’s enforcers. It is an appalling abuse of power to use the Police as a tool for personal vendettas. In 2019, I was defamed. I did not involve the Police to flex muscles and intimidate the defaming citizen, but I took the case to court where I am currently seeking reliefs for the injuries to my name and integrity. Therefore, I call for the immediate and unconditional release of Dele Farotimi. -AA
It’s a profound privilege to stride alongside our esteemed former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, into the vibrant celebration of WOTCLEF Foundation’s 25th Anniversary in Abuja. This moment is a testament to the unwavering support the Foundation has received from President Obasanjo. -AA #WOTCLEFAt25
For the avoidance of doubt, the rights of citizens to protest are ENSHRINED in the Nigerian Constitution and AFFIRMED by our courts. Section 40 of the 1999 Constitution (as altered) unequivocally guarantees the right to peaceful assembly and association.
Chasing shadows and contriving purported persons behind the planned protests is an exercise in futility when it is obvious that Nigerians, including supporters of Tinubu and the ruling APC, are caught up in the hunger, anger, and hopelessness brought about by the incompetence and cluelessness of this government.
It is deeply ironic that those who now seek to stifle these rights were themselves leading protests in 2012. A responsible government must ensure a SAFE and SECURE environment for citizens to exercise their constitutionally guaranteed rights to PEACEFUL PROTEST. Any attempt to suppress these rights is not only unconstitutional but a direct affront to our democracy. -AA
I know that a lot of hard work would have gone into turning things around in Zamfara. If Zamfara can do it, then other states in the North can turn things around education-wise. Congratulations to Governor Dauda Lawal, @daudalawal_, and all the officials and agencies who brought about this transformation. -AA
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On behalf of my family, I extend hearty congratulations to Sheikh Dahiru Usman Bauchi as he celebrates his 100th birthday anniversary today. Attaining the century mark is a remarkable achievement worthy of celebration. I wish the Sheikh more years in good health and vitality in the service of the faithful and ulama. Congratulations, Sir. -AA
My trip to Katsina today also afforded me the opportunity to pay my condolences to the family of my late friend and associate, Alhaji Lawal Kaita, over the loss of the matriarch of the family, Hajiya Yalwa Kaita, where I was received by the Governor of Katsina, Dikko Umar Radda. I also paid courtesy visits to the Emir of Katsina, HRH Abdulmumini Kabir Usman, and the Emir of Daura, HRH Alhaji Farouk Umar Farouk. -AA
On behalf of my family and team, I wish Chief Adolphus Wabara, former Senate President and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of our great party, @OfficialPDPNig, a happy 76th birthday anniversary. I pray that the Almighty God shall continue to endow you with good health, vitality, and wisdom in the service of the PDP. -AA
My thoughts and prayers are with Tijjani Babangida, the former Super Eagles player, his wife, son and maid, who were involved in a ghastly car crash along the Kaduna-Zaria highway. Unfortunately, the crash claimed the life of his brother, Ibrahim. I pray that God will grant Tijani and the other victims of the accident healing. May Allah forgive the sins of the deceased and grant him Aljannah Firdaus. -AA
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I am proud to identify with Prince Nduka Obaigbena and his Arise News TV as it continues breaking new ground in the media landscape. The availability of the TV network in South Africa and nine other countries is a landmark achievement for the 11-year-old network. This brings to 54 the total number of countries it is available in and reinforces its leadership position in telling the African and Nigerian stories. No one is better positioned to tell your story than yourself. In a world marked by prejudices and bias, Obaigbena's @ARISEtv offers a refreshing opportunity to tell the African story, nay the Nigerian story from the African perspective, with all of the socio-economic and political benefits to the people of the African continent. -AA
@AishaYesufu You've been in the trenches for too long. He's glad to have you all to the family alone for once. A wish of matrimonial bliss to you both.