Politics
2023: Northern Elders, Ohanaeze Reject Call For Interim Govt
The Northern Elders Forum, (NEF), and Igbo socio-cultural and political organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, have rejected the call for an interim government and postponement of the 2023 elections as canvassed by elder statesman, Chief Afe Babalola, (SAN).
It would be recalled that based on the security situation in the country, which has raised tension, Babalola had proposed the setting up of an interim government and a shift of the general elections next year.
But reacting to the call yesterday, the Northern elders did not only reject the proposal but also urged Nigerians to act in manners that reinforce Nigeria’s democratic systems and help the nation through its current challenges.
NEF’s Director of Publicity and Advocacy, Dr. Hakeem Baba-Ahmed in an exclusive chat with The Tide source in Abuja, described Babalola’s suggestions as “ideas that represent threats to our constitutional democracy.”
According to him, the idea will not only hinder a lawful transition of power in a peaceful and inclusive manner, but was also entirely impractical.
He said: “Accomplished elders like Chief Babalola will be looked upon to render advice and give opinions that should help the country move on, but this particular advice is not one of such. It rehashes ideas that represent threats to our constitutional democracy and are entirely impractical.
“There are indeed many elements of our current situation and systems that require major attention, and we support any constitutional effort that will lower tensions and address threats to a peaceful and lawful transition that will prioritize addressing limitations of our constitution in an inclusive manner.
“As things stand, we join other Nigerians and politicians to act in manners that reinforce our democratic systems and help the country through its difficult, current challenges.”
In its reaction, spokesman of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Chief Alex Nwokedi, said: “Ohanaeze Ndigbo rejects the call for interim government. It is possible that Chief Afe Babalola, a gentleman and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, somebody who is going for uprightness, is worried or tired of what is happening in Nigeria.
“What Ohanaeze wants is that Mr. President should go but not remain on seat and zone the Presidency to South-East.”What he started he should stay to complete it. The parties should zone the presidency to South-East. It is a job he started and he should complete it. That is what Ohanaeze wants.”
Politics
Alleged Coup: Protests Rock N’Assembly As Detained Officers’ Children, Wives Demand Justice
Scores of children and wives of military officers detained over an alleged coup plot yesterday staged a peaceful protest at the National Assembly, demanding a speedy trial and the release of the accused officials.
The protesters who gathered at the entrance of the National Assembly complex, moved in a slow procession while clutching placards with inscriptions such as “Don’t Kill Our Daddies,” “Detention Without Trial is Injustice,” and “Six Months of Torture: Enough Is Enough.”
Amid tears and trembling voices, the children appealed for justice and access to their detained fathers, many of whom they said they had not seen for months.
The appeal was made during a press briefing in Abuja attended by no fewer than 20 wives and several children of the detained officers, including a two-month-old baby.
The families were accompanied by human rights lawyer, Deji Adeyanju and activist Omoyele Sowore.
At the briefing, the families lamented that the officers had been held for over 160 days without trial or contact with their relatives, describing the situation as a violation of their fundamental rights.
Speaking on behalf of the families, Memuna Bashiru said the prolonged detention had thrown their households into uncertainty and emotional distress, noting that while allegations had been widely publicised, families remained in the dark about the fate of their loved ones.
The arrest of the indicted officers was first announced on October 4, 2025, by the then Director of Defense Information, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, who disclosed that 16 officers were taken into custody for alleged breaches of military regulations and acts of indiscipline.
However, an interim investigation later suggested the existence of a clandestine network of officers, allegedly coordinated by a senior Army officer, which had begun preliminary planning for a coup.
According to the report, the alleged plot involved surveillance of key national assets, including the Presidential Villa, Armed Forces Complex, Niger Barracks in Abuja, and major international airports, with October 25, 2025, cited as the planned date for the operation.
Those reportedly in custody include Brig Gen M. A. Sadiq, Col M. A. Maaji, Lt Col S. Bappah, Lt Col A. A. Hayatu, Lt Col P. Dangnap, Lt Col M. Almakura, Maj A. J. Ibrahim, Maj M. M. Jiddah, Maj M. A. Usman, Maj D. Yusuf, Capt I. Bello, Capt A. A. Yusuf, Lt S. S. Felix, Lt Cdr D. B. Abdullahi, Sqn Ldr S. B. Adamu and Maj I. Dauda.
The alleged plot, according to findings, targeted senior government officials, including President Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima.
In a statement issued yesterday, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Mr Felix Morka, said the exercise would take place in all wards and designated centres nationwide.
He called on existing members to update their records, while encouraging new entrants to join the party through the digital platform.
“As the electronic membership registration exercise resumes in all wards and designated locations nationwide, we urge existing members to validate their membership while new members are encouraged to register and join the progressive family,” Mr Morka said.
According to him, eligibility for registration is limited to individuals aged 18 and above who possess a valid National Identification Number (NIN).
The party said the initiative is part of efforts to modernise its operations by transitioning to a digital database that would enhance record accuracy and accessibility.
Mr Morka noted that the e-registration would “digitise the party’s membership register, ensure the integrity of records, and enhance efficient access to membership data for planning and management decisions.”
He added that the move is also aimed at promoting internal democracy within the party and strengthening its commitment to democratic innovation.
The APC had previously introduced electronic registration as part of broader reforms to streamline its membership system and improve organisational efficiency.
-
News4 days ago
Decentralizing Pipeline Surveillance Poses Greater Dangers To Niger Delta …. Group Warns
-
Politics4 days agoAPC Resumes Electronic Membership Registration Nationwide
-
Rivers4 days agoCourt Rules Out Interim Administration In Jumbo House, Bonny
-
Business4 days ago33 Banks Raise N4.65tn As Recapitalisation Ends
-
Politics4 days agoAlleged Coup: Protests Rock N’Assembly As Detained Officers’ Children, Wives Demand Justice
-
Nation4 days agoNile University Hosts ICA Nigeria First National Confab On Global Communication
-
Sports4 days ago
Lewandowski Leads Top Stars Missing From W/Cup Roll Call
-
Sports4 days agoPara Games: Team Rivers Wins 53 Medals On Day 5 … Director Praise Athletes