- SUPREME COURT SACKS ABURE AS LABOUR PARTY CHAIRMAN
The Supreme Court has removed Julius Abure as the National Chairman of the Labour Party. In a unanimous ruling, the court overturned an earlier decision by the Court of Appeal, stating it had no authority to decide on the party’s internal leadership. The Supreme Court emphasized that matters such as party leadership are internal and should not be resolved by the courts. Read more
Athena Commentary
In more developed democracies, internal party disputes are usually resolved through clear party rules and democratic processes, not court battles. The Supreme Court’s decision to step back aligns with global best practices, where courts avoid interfering in political party leadership unless laws are broken. In countries like the UK or Germany, parties handle such issues internally, ensuring independence from judicial overreach. This ruling is a step in the right direction for Nigeria, promoting stronger political institutions and encouraging parties to resolve their conflicts transparently and fairly, without dragging the judiciary into purely political matters.
- COURT STOPS PRO-WIKE RALLY IN BAYELSA
A Bayelsa State High Court has stopped a planned mega rally linked to FCT Minister Nyesom Wike in Yenagoa. The order, issued by Justice I.A. Uzakah, stops the event until a court hearing is held. The rally was scheduled for April 12, 2025. The case was filed by the state’s Attorney General, Biriyai Dambo SAN, who claimed the rally could cause tension. The court order affects Wike, George Turnah, and the NEW Associates, who organized the event. The ruling aims to maintain peace while the legal issues are addressed. Read more
Athena Commentary
In stronger democracies, like the U.S. or UK, peaceful rallies are protected under the right to free speech and assembly, even if they are politically sensitive. Courts only step in when there’s clear evidence of a threat to public safety or violation of law. In Nigeria, however, rallies are often blocked through court orders, sometimes seen as politically motivated. While maintaining peace is important, using the courts to stop opposition gatherings can weaken democratic values. For fairness, all groups should be allowed to express themselves, and any concerns should be handled through dialogue and proper security, not legal suppression.
- THREE FOREIGNERS ARRESTED IN NASARAWA ILLEGAL MINING SITE RAID
The Mining Marshals have shut down an illegal mining site in Rafin-Gabas, Kokona, Nasarawa State. The Minister of Solid Minerals, Dele Alake, confirmed the action in a statement, saying three foreigners were arrested during the operation. The Mining Marshals, set up by the ministry to tackle illegal mining, led the effort. Alake described the move as an important step in cleaning up the mining sector and stopping illegal activities. The government aims to bring order and proper regulation to the industry to protect the nation’s resources and ensure legal, safe mining practices. Read more
Athena Commentary
In well run countries like Canada or Australia, mining is strictly regulated, and illegal operations are rare due to strong laws, regular monitoring, and tough penalties. Nigeria’s crackdown on illegal mining is a good move, but lasting progress requires more than arrest it needs strong institutions, community involvement, and transparent licensing. The creation of Mining Marshals is a step forward, but the government must also invest in technology and training to prevent future violations. In better systems, mining boosts the economy without harming the environment or communities. Nigeria must aim for this standard to fully benefit from its mineral resources.
- TWO DELTA FARM WORKERS IN POLICE CUSTODY FOR KILLING MANAGER
Two farm workers, David Tacho and Daniel Orshio, have been arrested in Delta State for allegedly plotting and killing their farm manager, Chigozie Udalor, who was reported missing on December 12, 2024. The police say two other suspects, Pius Daniel and Victor Tacho, are still on the run. The case was reported by the victim’s cousin, and investigations led to the arrest of the two suspects. The police are continuing their search for the others involved. This incident highlights growing concerns about safety and crime in rural areas. Read more
Athena commentary
In safer countries like Sweden or Japan, farm-related crimes are rare due to better security systems, stronger community trust, and swift law enforcement responses. In Nigeria, however, weak rural security and poor working conditions can lead to such tragic cases. The arrest of the suspects is a good first step, but the root causes like poverty, lack of conflict resolution, and poor farm management must be addressed. In better systems, background checks, fair treatment of workers, and early signs of tension are taken seriously. Nigeria must strengthen rural safety, promote justice, and create better support systems to prevent such crimes.
COMPILED BY
EBUBE CHUKWUKAEME
JANE AZUBUIKE