People&Politics

By SHEDDY OZOENE Every election season in Nigeria has traditionally been a time for persuasion. Political parties sell their programmes, candidates present their records and promises, and voters weigh their options. That civic tradition is now under threat. As the country moves towards the 2027 general elections, a darker pattern is emerging. Some politicians and their supporters, often protected by their closeness to power or influence, are increasingly suggesting that victory for their preferred candidates—usually candidates of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC)—is non-negotiable and that those who stand in their way could face consequences. When the discussion moves away…

By Ikeddy ISIGUZO NOBODY should leave the deserved impeachment of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to Senate President Obong Godswill Akpabio. He cannot see the importance. Nigerians should demand the removal or resignation of Tinubu for wanton disregard of the 1999 Constitution with which he was sworn into office and which he swore to uphold. If Akpabio becomes an obstacle to the process he should be swept away with Tinubu. Tinubu has got used to picking and choosing parts of the Constitution to obey. His appointments are riddled with examples of Tinubu's abhorrence of federal character provisions, exclusion of parts of the…

By SHEDDY OZOENE In Roman mythology, Janus is the god with two faces. One looks to the past, the other to the future. Over time, the name has come to describe anyone who presents two sharply contrasting sides. In the recent Osun State governorship election, President Bola Tinubu’s dual posture fitted the description perfectly. Except that unlike Janus who successfully stood in firm defence of Rome against the Sabines, Tinubu threw himself into the battle to stop the Adelekes, and failed spectacularly. It clearly rankles him that, unlike in Lagos where he reigns unchallenged, Tinubu has been unable to build…

By SHEDDY OZOENE It is still an unfolding story. If you like, it is only the kick-off of a football match that could go the full 90 minutes, into extra time and perhaps even a penalty shootout. As we say in such contests, a winner must emerge between UEFA and a coalition of continental federations on one side, and FIFA President, Gianni Infantino on the other. Fresh from the successful 2026 FIFA World Cup hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, FIFA has found itself in the middle of a major controversy over plans to restructure the commercial ownership…

By FESTUS ADEDAYO Midnight was just shyly unfolding its grim loneliness over the Coal City. I nudged the nose of my blue Peugeot 504 Saloon out of my apartment’s driveway opposite the Fire Service Office. I then turned into the dark, quiet embrace of the main road at Otigba Junction. Otigba is a vital transportation hub located on Ogui Road in Enugu. Known for its bustling activity, connecting various parts of the beautiful city, from there, I engaged gear and drove down Bisalla Road. I barely saw a soul. Then, connecting the New Haven area, the car headed towards the…