NAFDAC confiscates 120 fake bags of rice in Rivers State
Obi slams disregard for Supreme Court judgment in Rivers fund allocation
Catholic priest kidnapped in Imo
‘I have no links to militants,’ says Fubara
NAFDAC confiscates 120 fake bags of rice in Rivers State
NAFDAC seized 120 fake bags of rice in Port Harcourt during a raid with Big Bull, a rice producer. The operation targeted shops in Woji, Mile 3, and Mile 1 markets selling rebagged fake rice. NAFDAC’s Rivers State Coordinator, Emmanuel Onogwu, warned traders and consumers to be cautious of counterfeit rice. Read more
Athena Commentary: In some countries, food safety agencies use advanced tracking systems, strict regulations, and heavy penalties to prevent food fraud. Counterfeit products rarely reach markets because of strong supply chain monitoring and consumer protection laws. In contrast, Nigeria’s NAFDAC is still dealing with widespread fake goods, relying on raids rather than preventive measures. While seizing fake rice is a good step, better countries focus on strict enforcement, digital tracking, and public awareness to stop fraud before it happens. Nigeria needs stronger policies, better technology, and stricter penalties to ensure safer food for everyone.
Obi slams disregard for Supreme Court judgment in Rivers fund allocation
Peter Obi has condemned the political situation in Rivers State, calling it unconstitutional and a violation of Nigeria’s laws. He criticized the release of state funds to a sole administrator instead of a legitimate legislative body, despite a Supreme Court ruling against it. Obi described this as a clear disregard for the rule of law and a challenge to the court’s authority. He warned that such actions undermine democracy and urged adherence to legal processes. He emphasized that funds should only be disbursed after a duly constituted House of Assembly passes an Appropriation Act, as required by law. Read more
Athena Commentary: Peter Obi’s criticism of the political crisis in Rivers State highlights deep flaws in Nigeria’s governance—particularly the disregard for the rule of law. In well-functioning democracies like the U.S., U.K., or Germany, court rulings are final and binding, with severe consequences for non-compliance. Government institutions operate with clear checks and balances, ensuring that funds are only disbursed through lawful legislative processes. Nigeria’s situation, where a Supreme Court order is ignored, reflects weak institutional enforcement and political impunity. Until Nigeria strengthens its legal system and holds leaders accountable, democratic principles will remain fragile, and governance will suffer.
Catholic priest kidnapped in Imo
Gunmen kidnapped Rev. Fr. John Ubaechu, a Catholic priest, in Ejemekwuru, Imo State, while he was traveling for a retreat. The Owerri Catholic Archdiocese confirmed the abduction in a statement by Rev. Fr. Patrick Mbarah. Ubaechu, who serves at Holy Family Catholic Church, Izombe, was taken on Sunday along Ejemekwuru road in Oguta. The Church has urged prayers for his safe release. Read more
Athena Commentary: The abduction of Rev. Fr. John Ubaechu in Imo State highlights Nigeria’s security challenges, where kidnappings are frequent, and perpetrators often go unpunished. In better-governed countries, strong security systems, rapid emergency response, and intelligence-driven policing prevent such crimes or ensure swift arrests. For example, in developed nations, high-tech surveillance, well-equipped police, and strict law enforcement deter criminals. Communities also trust security agencies, unlike in Nigeria, where fear and distrust persist. Until authorities prioritize safety, innocent citizens including clergy will remain vulnerable, and such tragedies will continue. Strengthening law enforcement and addressing root causes like poverty and unemployment are crucial.
‘I have no links to militants,’ says Fubara
Suspended Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has denied any ties to militant groups and warned against using his name to stir violence. In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, he dismissed viral videos claiming explosions at oil and gas sites as fake and malicious. He urged security agencies to investigate the source of the videos and take action against those spreading false information. Read more
Athena Commentary: In better-governed countries, crises like this are handled with more transparency and less political tension. Leaders focus on facts, and institutions work independently to investigate threats without bias. In contrast, Nigeria’s system often struggles with trust issues, where political conflicts lead to accusations, misinformation, and heightened fears. A strong judicial and security system should swiftly verify claims and hold culprits accountable, preventing unnecessary panic. In places with good governance, the focus would be on protecting investments, ensuring public confidence, and fostering stability rather than political blame games and uncertainty that can scare investors and harm economic growth.