Today, I had the opportunity to meet with Quadri Yusuf Alabi, the young boy whose story moved us all. After enduring unjust and illegal incarceration, he is finally free, and I am very grateful to the lawyers led by @InibeheEffiong, who fought for his release and also @DeleFarotimi and Ms Hassana Nurudeen,, whose constant intervention was instrumental in securing justice for the young lad.
I listened to Quadri today, and one thing stood out clearly: his unwavering desire for education. Despite all he has been through, his only dream is to return to school and complete his education and I will make sure he gets it.
His determination is not just inspiring; it is a call to action, and I am committed to ensuring that he gets the education he desires and deserves.
In addition, we must not stop at his release. Those responsible for his illegal incarceration must be held accountable. As we strive to build a Nigeria where fairness and integrity prevail, we cannot afford to allow such acts of criminality to go unpunished.
I once again thank the lawyers and everyone who stood and remained unrelenting for justice.
Together, we will build a Nigeria where education, freedom, rule of law, equity and justice, care and protection of the less privileged in our midst will stand as the foundation of our democracy.
A new Nigeria is Possible. -PO
Nigerians must unite and End the Tinubu’s Renewed Hopelessness Agenda by 2027 through #ElectoralReform ❗️
Part of my interview on @ARISEtv with the delectable @RuthOsime
Today, my heart is overwhelmed with a joy words can barely hold. I think the time is finally right to share this story…
In 2018, I met Jamiu. He was a curious kid, brilliant and full of light. At the time, he was working as a roadside mechanic in the slums of Majidun, Ikorodu. I invited him and his brother Ayomide to our weekend chess academy. I immediately grew very fond of them as they were very talented and of great character as well.
When I asked to meet their parents, he led me to a tiny shed and hugged a woman with the kindest smile. “That’s my mum” he said.
I noticed her leg was amputated. She had lost her right leg in a tragic accident: while scavenging for plastic bottles at a dump site to feed her children, an excavator ran over her. She was never taken to the hospital as there was no money to sort the medical bills. Her Husband had abandoned her as soon as Jamiu was born so they never got to meet their father.
That day, I made a quiet vow to never leave them behind.
In 2019, their mum fell critically ill. I held her hand as she cried and asked me to take care of her boys if anything happened to her. I reassured her that she was going to remain alive to see her boys excel. It was a promise I couldn’t keep…
Two weeks later, she passed.
That day, I became a father.
They moved in with me. We got them back in school. Jamiu became a chess champion and is currently completing his University education. I’ve watched him grow into a remarkable young man. His brother Ayomide, a track and field star in his final secondary school education year. My heart is full, I’m glad I got to be a part of their story.
Today, 7 years later… we’re together in America and Jamiu just won the ICN Chess Championship in New York, ahead of 200+ USCF-rated players, and earned a $500 scholarship.
I know your Mum watches you from heaven with a smile 🕊️ Your dreams are boundless Jamiu.
Continue to Dare greatly and show the world what you’re truly made of. I fought back tears today because I am immensely proud of you.
Mama Jamiu, your boys are doing well. I kept my promise. I always will.
Earlier today, I arrived at London Gatwick Airport aboard Air Peace Airline marking my third trip to London with Air Peace, and each experience has been pleasant. Aboard the flight were other prominent Nigerians including Apostle Johnson Suleman.
I always feel happy and proud to see a Nigerian enterprise thriving beyond Nigeria.
I am in London to attend the 2025 Commonwealth Enterprise and Investment Council Trade and Investment Summit at the historic London Mansion House on the 7th and 8th of April, where I will be speaking as a guest speaker.
I have been a member of the Governing Council Board since its inception in 1997.
To be on the path of developmental growth, we must invest and can achieve development, and growth by investing in and focusing on critical areas that drive sustainable economic growth, education, healthcare, and poverty alleviation, particularly by supporting SMEs to drive productivity, employment, and innovation.
Indeed, a new Nigeria is POssible. -PO
Today, I received the heartbreaking news of the passing of Zubairu Momoh, a dedicated member of our Obidient family. He fought bravely against illness, and I vividly remember visiting him in the hospital in Lagos. Despite his struggles, he remained in good spirits, and I encouraged him to hold on to hope as we all prayed for his recovery.
Learning of his passing, during the sacred month of Ramadan, is truly painful. Yet, even in our grief, we submit to the divine will of the Almighty who alone gives and takes life.
On behalf of my family and the entire Obidient family, I extend my deepest condolences to his loved ones, especially his wife, and to all of us who mourn this great loss. Zubairu played a vital role in our collective struggle for a better nation, and his contributions will never be forgotten.
May God Almighty grant him eternal rest and give his family, friends, and all who mourn him the strength to bear this irreplaceable loss. May God continue to protect and bless his family always. –PO
Today, in the true spirit of Eid-love, compassion, and solidarity—I paid a visit to the IDP Camp in Durumi, Abuja, to support and share moments with our fellow Nigerians who, due to unfortunate circumstances, have been displaced from their homes. Their resilience, strength, and unwavering faith in the face of adversity demand our attention and continue to inspire us all.
Let us reflect on the true essence of Eid—sacrifice, charity, and unity. This is a time to renew our commitment to building a nation where every Nigerian, regardless of background, has access to the basic necessities of life. We must continue to invest in critical areas of development—education, healthcare, and poverty alleviation—to create a more just, inclusive, and prosperous Nigeria where no one is left behind.
Eid Mubarak once again! May God Almighty bless this season and bring peace, happiness, and progress to our dear nation.
A new Nigeria is POssible!
-PO
While still agonizing over the ongoing deterioration of democracy in our nation, especially with the situation in Rivers State, and trying to reach out to our National Assembly members not to support and sustain the unconstitutionality and arbitrariness, I just heard that they have added salt to injury by using a voice vote to pass the illegality .
The Constitution is clear that this cannot be done through a voice vote but by calling individuals to answer 'yes' or 'no.'
You cannot determine a two-thirds majority by a voice vote.
While a two-thirds majority is crucial, it does not justify bypassing proper procedures and undermining the principles of transparency and accountability.
The use of a voice vote in such a significant decision not only disregards constitutional requirements but also erodes public trust in the democratic process as well as the transparency and integrity of the National Assembly .
Decisions of such magnitude must be made with integrity, following the letter and spirit of the law.
It is disheartening that a decision as crucial as approving an emergency proclamation — one that could alter the course of the nation — has been handled with such casual disregard for constitutional standards.
The 1999 Constitution of Nigeria (as amended) clearly requires that such a proclamation must be approved by at least two-thirds of all members of each House — the Senate and the House of Representatives.
A simple call of "Aye" or "Nay" cannot accurately measure this crucial threshold.
When a supermajority is required, it demands a recorded vote — whether by division, roll call, or electronic means. This isn't just a technicality; it's a matter of law and legitimacy.
The Senate Standing Orders and House Rules were established to ensure that decisions of this magnitude are made transparently, with accountability.
Ignoring these procedures is not just an oversight; it is a betrayal of the democratic process.
A voice vote for such a critical matter is not just insufficient; it's a dangerous precedent. If we can bend the rules so easily, what stops us from undermining other pillars of democracy?
Today, it's a voice vote on a state of emergency — tomorrow, it could be a voice vote on citizens' fundamental rights.
It is painful to think that members of the National Assembly, who swore to uphold the Constitution, could participate in a process that sidesteps the very essence of due process.
We must ask ourselves: If the law no longer anchors our decisions, then what does?
This is not just a flawed procedure; it is a warning signal.
We cannot afford to keep gambling with the soul of our democracy. -PO
The unilateral decision of President Bola Tinubu to remove Governor Similaya Fubara of Rivers State from office is not only unconstitutional but also reckless.
It has plunged us back into a state of lawlessness, hugely undoing the progress we have made in these 26 years of democratic journey.
By disregarding the rule of law, the President has shown a dangerous willingness to trample on democracy.
The declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State is not just reckless—it is a clear attempt to return us to a state of nature and tighten its grip on power at all costs.
It is a degrading back door imposition of martial rule on a strategic part of the federation with all the implied negatives .
The political situation on the ground in Rivers does not justify such an extreme measure, and it is also a biased interpretation of section 305(1) of the 1999 constitution.
A state of emergency does not mean an elected Governor can be removed unilaterally. This decision does not align with democratic norms or good governance. Instead, it appears to be a predetermined action serving specific interests rather than the collective good of the people of Rivers State and Nigeria.
This action constitutes an unconstitutional overreach, setting a dangerous precedent that threatens democracy, the rule of law, and the separation of powers. If left unchecked, it could foster a culture of impunity.
Having already been grappling with non-adherence to electoral qualifications, rules, and massive rigging, adding arbitrary removal of elected officials will push us to a state of nature and anarchy.
I appeal to the National Assembly and all stakeholders not to allow this to stand, as it only deepens the culture of impunity and brigand already threatening our democracy.
A new Nigeria is POssible!
-PO
My dear brothers and sisters,
Members of the Labour Party in the National Assembly,
Since your inauguration as Distinguished, and Honorable members of the National Assembly, I have refrained from interfering in your legislative affairs out of respect for your independence and to allow you to focus on alleviating the suffering of the Nigerian people.
However, at this critical juncture — following 26 years of a deteriorating democratic process marked by disregard for educational qualifications for electoral positions, massive rigging, and now the unconstitutional removal of elected officeholders — I find it necessary to address you. These unconstitutional actions have far-reaching negative implications for our democracy and the will of the people.
I urge you to stand as true defenders of justice. Do not participate in or support any action, decision, or vote that compromises the integrity of our democracy, undermines the interests of the people of Rivers State, or contradicts our core values of fairness, equity, and transparency.
We must not allow ourselves to become instruments of injustice or contribute to the betrayal of the people's mandate. At this moment, we must prioritize what is right over what is wrong or convenient, remaining steadfast in defending the well-being of the people of Rivers State.
Together, let us stand firm in our resolve — because a new Nigeria is possible!
-PO
After my engagements in London, yesterday, I arrived in Abuja today to pay my tributes to the memory of a man I regard as one of Nigeria's best minds, the Late Dunu Chu Okongwu who served our dear nation as the Minister of National Planning, Minister of Finance and Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources, all under the then Head of States, Gen Ibrahim Babangida.
Chu Okongwu's service to the nation was reflective of his devotion and commitment to the progress of the nation. He was a man of integrity who not only served the nation faithfully but worked tirelessly for our national development.
He lived an exemplary life of modesty and demonstrated the level of self-control obviously lacking in our political leadership today.
Not minding the enviable positions he held, in the country, he only had 2 houses; one in Enugu and one in his home village.
Okongwu was one of the few Nigerians in public service who rejected the seductions of self-aggrandizement and looting of the public treasury.
As the then Minister of Finance, he was one of those who advised Gen Babangida on the licensing of new banks. But he neither issued a license to himself nor did he use his position to influence those given the banking licenses into giving him part ownership.
Even as the Petroleum Minister, he did not allocate an oil block or oil import license to himself, as would be the case today.
If he had used his position of service to enrich himself rather than work for the nation, he would have been celebrated, and his funeral would have been glamorised by dignitaries because we are in a nation that still celebrates criminals and criminals.
He committed his knowledge, skills and passion to the service of the nation, and I have come to bid him farewell. I do hope that we, the leaders, will learn from his good legacies.
May God grant him eternal rest and console his family, and every one of us. -PO
My attention has been drawn to a news report saying that I described the Supreme Court ruling on Rivers State as reckless.
The statement I made from which the report was drawn is on the general terms of the attitude of the political elites in the face of deepening poverty in the land.
There's nowhere I made direct remarks on the Supreme Court ruling as reckless.
Even if a ruling of the apex court is not agreeable to me, I cannot describe it as reckless.
I find it very necessary to give this clarification. -PO
Today in Abeokuta, Ogun State, I delightfully joined in the series of activities marking the 88th birthday of a revered elder statesman and father figure, President Olusegun Obasanjo.
Undoubtedly, President Obasanjo remains a deeply respected and admired Nigerian leader whose immense contributions to our nation's growth remain immeasurable and undiminished
At the time he became President in 1999, Nigeria's GDP was about $59Billion with a per capita of around $490, our foreign debt stock was about $32Billion and when he left office in 2007, our GDP was $278B, GDP per capita was $1800, and foreign debt reduced to $3.2B with a significant increase in our foreign reserves.
His true patriotism and bold sacrifices for a better Nigeria and Africa remain remarkable.
His commitment to the unity of our nation has remained exceptional.
May God grant him more healthy, fruitful, and happy years ahead, and continue to bless him always. -PO
Closure of Head Bridge Market: A Call for reconsideration of position
The entire Head Bridge Market in Onitsha has been closed by regulatory and security agencies due to suspected trading in illegal drugs within one section of the market known as Ogbo Ogwu.
While one unequivocally condemns such illicit drug trading activities and urges the government to take all necessary measures to eradicate the sale of fake items—especially drugs—and legally prosecute the perpetrators for the health and safety of society, my concern and appeal are for the immediate reopening of neighbouring markets that were also collaterally affected by the closure.
Shutting down other neighboring markets not involved in addition to the Ogbo Ogwu Market such as Rod, Allied and Tools, Plumbing Materials, Timber, Surgical, and Provision Markets seems excessive and unjustified
I therefore appeal for their immediate reopening, as their continued closure is severely affecting the livelihoods of millions, especially during this difficult period in our country.
Furthermore, the search should be conducted transparently, with store owners present while their shops are inspected and items removed by the law and due process.
If the goal is to conduct a legitimate search, why extend the closure to other markets? What are their offences?
During my tenure as Governor of Anambra state, we faced similar situations multiple times.
Whenever we encountered public health threats, we addressed them collaboratively and methodically with the relevant agencies. In cases requiring market interventions, we worked closely with regulatory authorities and security agencies, ensuring fairness and due process.
This approach prevented unnecessary disruptions and safeguarded livelihoods.
The current strategy should be reconsidered to prevent undue hardship on traders, their families, and the state’s economy.
A more balanced and transparent approach will enhance both security and economic stability.
While pursuing the end of enhanced public health, we should not lose sight of the collateral economic effects of adjacent market closures should be kept in view always. -PO
I have just received the heartbreaking news of a ghastly gas explosion that occurred yesterday at the house of one of our Obidient family members, @Uptownoflagos, leaving three of his brothers with severe third-degree burns. They are currently receiving treatment in one of our National Orthopaedic Hospitals.
Such a mishap coming at this difficult time, our thoughts and prayers are with the victims, their loved ones, and all those going through similar situations across the country.
I pray for their complete and speedy recovery, and for the medical team to be guided in providing the best possible care. May God Almighty grant them healing, strength, and comfort, and uphold their entire family during this trying period. -PO
Nigeria was again the starlight in Continental soccer as our own Super Eagles forward, Ademola Lookman, was crowned the African Footballer of the Year 2024, while Super Falcon's goalkeeper, Chiamaka Nnadozie, is again crowned the Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year 2024 at the Confederation of African Football (CAF) Awards. And to crown it all, the female national team, the Super Falcons, won the continent's Women's National Team of the Year at the same awards.
I sincerely congratulate our very dear sportsmen and women who, through these awards, have written their names in gold and brought honor to our nation. Thank you for your hard work, efforts, skills, and excellence which brought you thus far.
Sports has not only been a strong unifying factor for us in Nigeria but has proven to be a means of job creation for our talented youths. Moments of victory like this remind us of what we can accomplish as a nation in the area of sports if we invest more in the sector.
For a youthful population like ours, sports remains a very important sector and we must give it the adequate attention it deserves. A New Nigeria remains POssible! -PO