City Crime

Nigeria Greater Together As One, Says Buhari

Published

6 years ago

October 1, 2020

President Muhammadu Buhari says that Nigeria as an indivisible geo-political entity is more beneficial to its citizens than becoming units of nationalities.
Buhari gave the advice in a nationwide broadcast to mark the 60thindependence anniversary of Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation.
According to him, Nigerians must collectively resolve to continue their journey beyond the recorded 60 years on the understanding that Nigeria as a geo-political entity will be more beneficial to every citizen.
“We are greater together than being smaller units of nationalities,’’ he asserted.
Buhari stated that citizens should continue to do the right things to promote unity and understanding among the diverse ethno-religious groups in the country, to achieve desired goals of nation building.
“Fellow Nigerians, our history has shown that we are people that have the capacity to live peacefully with one another.
“Fellow Nigerians, to achieve the great nation we desire, we need to solidify our strength, increase our commitment and encourage ourselves to do what is right and proper even when no one is watching.
“Let us collectively resolve to continue our journey beyond the 60 years on the clear understanding that as a nation we are greater together than being smaller units of nationalities.
“By the sufficient grace of God we shall come through current transient challenges.”
The president also stressed the need for the country to begin a sincere process of national healing, saying that the current anniversary presented genuine opportunity to eliminate divisive tendencies among the people.
He advised citizens to always discard acts capable of dividing the nation or promoting primordial sentiments.
“We need to begin sincere process of national healing and this anniversary presents a genuine opportunity to eliminate old and out-worn perceptions.
“The stereotype of thinking of ourselves as coming from one part of the country before seeing ourselves as Nigerians is a key starting point to project us on the road to our deserved nation’s evolution and integration.
“To start this healing process, we are already blessed with the most important asset any nation requires for such , our people, and this has manifested globally in the exploits of Nigerians in many fields.
“It has been demonstrated time and time again that Nigerians in the diaspora frequently excel in science, technology, medicine, sports, arts and many other fields,’’he said.
“Similarly, the creativity, ingenuity and resourcefulness of the Nigerian at home has resulted to a global recognition of our endeavours.”
The president expressed his optimism that Nigeria would achieve its set goals if citizens collectively pursued the nation’s aspirations together.
“I’m convinced that if we pursue our aspirations together we will be able to achieve whatever we desire,” he added.
Buhari stressed that Nigerians, irrespective of their geo-political backgrounds must continue to show genuine commitment toward the survival of the country as a geo-political entity no matter the challenges facing the nation.
“I chose the path of self-reflection because this is what I do on daily basis and I must confess that most times, I always felt the need for collective reflection.
“I know that the foundation for a solid future which this administration is laying can only be sustainable if there is a collective commitment by Nigerians.
“Nigeria is not a country for Mr President, any ruling or opposition party but a country for all of us and we must play our part, irrespective of the challenges we face to make this country what we desire.
“To achieve this, we must focus our minds together as a people on ways of resolving the identified critical challenges that underline our present state.
According to him, these include evolving and sustaining a democratic culture that leaves power in the hands of the people:
Supporting the enthronement of rule of law, demanding accountability of elected representatives and contributing to good governance.
Increasing our commitment to peaceful co-existence in a peaceful, secure and united Nigeria;
Harnessing and optimizing our tremendous human and natural resources to attain our goal of being in the top 20 economies of the world and in the process;
Lifting 100 million Nigerians out of poverty in 10 years and strengthening institutions to make them stronger in protecting national interests and imbibing tolerance in diversity. (NAN)

City Crime

Nigeria Acquires 100 Warships, Boats In 70 Years – Navy Chief

Published

2 weeks ago

May 29, 2026

The Tide

The Nigerian Navy says it has acquired more than 100 warships and boats since its establishment 70 years ago.

Rear Adm. Ebiobowei Zipele, Flag Officer Commanding, Naval Training Command off (NAVTRAC), disclosed this during an interdenominational church service to mark the Nigerian Navy’s 70th anniversary in Onne, Rivers.

Zipele described the anniversary as significant, noting that the navy had demonstrated resilience, dedication and commitment to its constitutional responsibilities since its inception.

He said the navy, established in 1956, had grown into an elite fighting force that had effectively protected Nigeria’s territorial waters from both domestic and foreign threats.

According to him, the Nigerian navy started in 1956 with 11 ships bequeathed by the (British) Royal Navy, but today we have over 100 ships and boats in our fleet.

He added that in spite of the successes recorded over the years, the navy was still acquiring more platforms, including warships, helicopters and drones, to further strengthen maritime security.

The naval boss revealed that the navy had successfully curtailed piracy in Nigeria’s waters and the Gulf of Guinea (GoG) for more than three years.

“The achievement has restored investor’s confidence and improved commercial activities within the maritime sector”, he said.

Zipele noted that the navy had performed creditably with available resources in protecting Nigeria’s territorial waters and maritime interests.

He said the establishment of an air arm unit had further strengthened operations aimed at securing the nation and the GoG.

According to him, although the navy has recorded notable successes, it can not secure Nigeria’s vast territorial waters alone.

He explained that the size of the nation’s maritime domain necessitated collaboration with relevant stakeholders to enhance security operations.

“The government adopted a ‘whole-of-society’ approach because the Nigerian navy cannot be everywhere at the same time”, he said.

Zipele listed the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Nigerian Customs Service (NCS), Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS), and Tantita Security Services among agencies supporting maritime security efforts.

He commended President Bola Tinubu for supporting the navy with improved operational resources and equipment, and lauded the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Adm. Idi Abbas, for boosting morale within the service.

The naval boss advised prospective recruits willing to join the navy to understand that military service required sacrifice and patriotism.

“There is no greater sacrifice than laying down our lives for our country”, he said.

He added that the Armed Forces remained actively engaged in operations against banditry, terrorism, oil theft and illegal bunkering across the country.

Theresa Frederick & Charity Amiso

City Crime

‘The Scholar of Evidence, Integrity and Community Leadership’

Published

4 weeks ago

May 13, 2026

The Tide

In legal philosophy, silence is often romanticized as wisdom. But within the law of evidence, silence may carry a very different implication — it can amount to an admission. This thought-provoking paradox forms part of the intellectual reflections of Professor Chris C. Wigwe, SAN, an accomplished legal scholar whose contributions to legal education and jurisprudence continue to shape conversations within Nigeria’s academic and professional legal circles.

Professor Christian Chizindu Wigwe stands among the distinguished figures produced by Nigeria’s legal academy. A Senior Advocate of Nigeria and seasoned scholar, he built a reputation for intellectual rigor, disciplined scholarship, and principled leadership in the study and teaching of law.

His academic journey reflects the making of a global legal mind. Wigwe obtained his Bachelor of Laws degree from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, before proceeding to the Nigerian Law School where he qualified for the Nigerian Bar. His quest for deeper scholarly engagement later took him to the United Kingdom, where he earned a Master of Laws degree from Middlesex University and subsequently a PhD in Public International and Economic Law from the University of Leeds.

These academic attainments did not merely decorate his curriculum vitae; they laid the intellectual foundation for a career that has consistently bridged theory and practice within the legal profession.

Over the years, Professor Wigwe has distinguished himself in the fields of jurisprudence, international law, criminal law and the law of evidence. His scholarship reflects a deep interest in how legal systems respond to economic realities, international cooperation and evolving global norms.

Within Nigeria’s university system, his name became closely associated with the Faculty of Law at Rivers State University in Port Harcourt, where he served as Dean from 2022 until November 2025. His tenure coincided with renewed conversations about strengthening legal education and positioning the faculty for global competitiveness.

Under his watch, the faculty intensified efforts to deepen research culture, strengthen postgraduate training and pursue partnerships capable of elevating the institution’s standing among law faculties in Africa.

Professor Wigwe also consistently emphasized the importance of institutional collaboration and alumni support in sustaining academic excellence. In public engagements, he urged graduates and stakeholders to support universities in building research centres and scholarship opportunities for students.

That perspective reflects his broader understanding that legal education must go beyond classroom instruction. For Wigwe, the development of law faculties must be anchored on strong research infrastructure, vibrant intellectual discourse and international engagement.

Beyond administrative leadership, he has remained an active contributor to legal scholarship through books and research publications. His works cover diverse aspects of legal theory, international institutions and corporate law practice.

Among his notable publications are texts such as Legal Research Methodology and Practice, Introduction to Company Law and Practice, and scholarly works exploring the economic dimensions of international institutions and monetary law.

These contributions have become reference materials for students and scholars seeking a deeper understanding of legal research and the dynamics of international economic law.

What distinguishes Wigwe’s scholarship is his ability to situate legal principles within the realities of global economic systems. His writings frequently interrogate how international institutions exercise power and how developing economies can navigate complex legal frameworks within global trade and finance.

Such perspectives have increasingly become relevant in a world where international law influences domestic economic policy, cross-border transactions and global governance.

Within the classroom, colleagues and students often describe him as a meticulous teacher who believes that legal reasoning must be sharpened through intellectual discipline and ethical responsibility.

His academic philosophy emphasizes the importance of integrity in the legal profession. For him, legal education must produce not only technically competent lawyers but individuals whose character can withstand the ethical demands of justice.

This emphasis on integrity resonates strongly within the Nigerian legal system, where the credibility of institutions often rests on the moral courage of those entrusted with authority.

Indeed, Wigwe’s professional life reflects the principle that law is not merely a technical craft but a moral enterprise aimed at preserving fairness and order in society.

His elevation to the prestigious rank of Senior Advocate of Nigeria further affirmed his standing within the legal profession. The SAN rank, often regarded as the pinnacle of legal practice in the country, is reserved for practitioners and scholars whose careers demonstrate excellence and integrity.

Yet, beyond titles and accolades, his legacy lies in the countless students he has mentored over decades of teaching.

Across courtrooms, law firms, government institutions and international organizations, former students continue to carry forward the intellectual and ethical lessons instilled during their time under his tutelage.

Mentorship remains one of the most enduring contributions of any academic. Through it, knowledge is transmitted across generations, shaping the legal culture of a society.

Professor Wigwe has consistently viewed mentorship as a responsibility rather than a privilege. For him, the success of students represents the true measure of a teacher’s impact.

His leadership style within academia reflects calm authority rather than flamboyance. Colleagues often describe him as a scholar who prefers substance over spectacle, focusing on institutional growth rather than personal acclaim.

This disposition aligns with his belief that universities must remain centres of reason, inquiry and ethical reflection.

Beyond the walls of academia, Professor Wigwe’s influence extends meaningfully into community life. His dedication to secular and communal activities has earned him admiration within his hometown of Isiokpo.

Recognizing his contributions to community development, leadership and social cohesion, the people of Isiokpo honoured him with a traditional chieftaincy title — a cultural recognition reserved for individuals whose lives exemplify service and integrity.

The honour reflects the deep respect he commands not only as a scholar but as a community figure committed to the welfare and progress of his people.

Traditional institutions in many African societies remain important custodians of culture, identity and moral leadership. When communities confer chieftaincy titles, they are often acknowledging a life lived in service to collective advancement.

For Professor Wigwe, this recognition underscores a broader philosophy that scholarship should not exist in isolation from society.

Rather, knowledge must translate into service — guiding communities, strengthening institutions and inspiring future generations.

The influence of scholars like Wigwe becomes even more significant in societies navigating complex governance challenges. Legal scholars provide the intellectual frameworks through which institutions interpret constitutions, enforce rights and resolve disputes.

In this regard, the Nigerian legal system continues to benefit from the contributions of academics who combine scholarship with practical insight.

Figures such as Professor Wigwe represent a bridge between legal theory and real-world governance.

Such individuals are invaluable to both national and international institutions that require legal minds capable of navigating complex regulatory and diplomatic environments.

The global legal community increasingly recognizes that expertise in international economic law, institutional governance and evidence law is essential for addressing contemporary challenges.

From trade negotiations to international arbitration and human rights enforcement, the need for scholars with strong analytical foundations has never been greater.

Nigeria, like many developing nations, possesses a reservoir of intellectual talent within its universities. However, such expertise is often underutilized in global governance spaces.

Scholars with the depth of experience and credibility of Professor Wigwe deserve broader platforms where their insights can contribute to shaping international legal discourse.

Positions within multilateral organizations, international arbitration panels, global academic networks and legal reform commissions could greatly benefit from the perspectives of scholars who understand both local realities and global legal frameworks.

The strength of any legal system ultimately depends on the integrity and intellectual courage of those entrusted with responsibility.

When individuals who embody these virtues are elevated to positions of trust, institutions become stronger and public confidence grows.

Professor Chris C. Wigwe’s career illustrates the enduring relevance of scholarship grounded in integrity, intellectual discipline, community service and responsible leadership.

In a time when public institutions require credible voices capable of guiding policy with wisdom and ethical clarity, figures of his calibre stand out as valuable assets not only to Nigeria but to the wider international community.

Ultimately, the story of Professor Wigwe is not merely about academic achievements or professional titles. It is about the quiet but powerful influence of a scholar committed to the ideals of justice, knowledge, community service and ethical leadership.

And in the long arc of legal history, it is often such scholars — patient builders of institutions, mentors of generations, and respected sons of their communities who leave the most enduring imprint on the pursuit of justice.

King Onunwor

City Crime

Report Against Lecturer Mere Witch-Hunt – RSU Management

Published

4 weeks ago

May 13, 2026

The Tide

A top management official of Rivers State University has described the recent allegations against a lecturer of the institution as a calculated witch-hunt aimed at tarnishing the image of both the academic and the university.

The management source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, maintained that the allegations bordering on the purported use of a forged appointment letter were misleading and failed to reflect the true circumstances surrounding the lecturer’s employment history.

According to the official, the university has an established administrative structure for recruitment, documentation and confirmation of staff appointments, stressing that no employee could remain in service for years without due verification by relevant departments.

The source explained that the matter had already attracted internal scrutiny and preliminary findings did not support claims being circulated in some quarters against the lecturer identified as Dr. Dike Harcourt Whyte.

He noted that the lecturer had continued to discharge his academic responsibilities diligently and had not been indicted by any panel or court of competent jurisdiction over the allegations.

The management official further alleged that certain individuals were sponsoring petitions against the lecturer due to personal disagreements and internal rivalries unrelated to the university’s academic standards.

He expressed concern that attempts were being made to drag the name of the university into avoidable controversy, especially at a time the institution was making significant progress in academic development, research and infrastructural expansion.

The source reiterated that the university administration under the Vice Chancellor remained committed to fairness, due process and the protection of staff members from harassment, intimidation and malicious attacks.

He stated that the institution would not act based on public sentiment or social media pressure, but would instead rely on verifiable records and official procedures in addressing any matter involving members of staff.

The official also warned against the spread of unverified information capable of causing reputational damage to individuals and the university, noting that such actions could undermine public confidence in the institution.

Meanwhile, some staff members who spoke in defence of the lecturer described him as a committed academic who had contributed positively to teaching, research and mentorship within the university community.

They therefore called on the public to disregard what they termed a smear campaign against the lecturer and allow the university authorities to handle the matter professionally and in accordance with established regulations.

When contacted, Whyte declined comment, but said on the University authority has the legal right to speak on the matter.

Meanwhile, the Vice chancellor of the University, Prof Isaac Zeb-Obipi, in his response said he was not the VC when Dr. Whyte was appointed.

“I wasn’t the VC when he was appointed. He was appointed several years ago; and I am not aware of any petition against his appointment”, he said.

Prof. Zeb-Obipi stressed that he had requested a meeting with the petitioners as part of efforts to investigate the allegations.

“How come I just became Vice Chancellor and they are writing a petition? To investigate the petition, I have requested to meet with the petitioners,” he said.

King Onunwor