Dr Esther Nkem Okereke has declared that the Osun State election should strengthen Nigerians' confidence in the ballot as a legitimate instrument of democratic choice.
The NRM 2027 presidential candidate, in her message to the nation, congratulated the people of Osun State and Governor Ademola Adeleke over the election outcome.
She said the participation of voters demonstrated that citizens remain central to the democratic process.
Okereke emphasized that when citizens vote and their decisions are respected, democracy gains greater legitimacy.
She also expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whom she credited with allowing the will of the people to stand.
According to her, Nigeria has an opportunity to show the world that democratic institutions can function when citizens participate and political leaders respect electoral decisions.
She called on all political parties to accept the responsibilities that come with electoral contests and to prioritize national unity.
Okereke maintained that the country needs political leadership that places service above personal ambition and national interest above partisan divisions.
The NACCIMA Youth Entrepreneurs have called on young Nigerians, businesses, government institutions and development partners to participate in NEXUS 2026, describing youth empowerment as an investment in Nigeria’s economic future.
The summit will hold from August 26 to 27 at the ECOWAS Building in Abuja under the theme “EXHIBIT. CONNECT. GROW. EMPOWER YOUTH. SHAPE THE FUTURE.”
NYE said Nigeria cannot build a strong and competitive economy without unlocking the productive capacity of its young population.
According to the organisers, young people must be given opportunities to acquire skills, develop enterprises, access markets, attract investment and participate meaningfully in the economy.
NEXUS 2026 is expected to create connections between young entrepreneurs and established businesses while providing opportunities to showcase innovations and explore partnerships.
The organisers' vision is consistent with the national emphasis on youth skills, entrepreneurship and job creation. Recent government statements have similarly highlighted technology, local manufacturing, innovation and employment as part of the economic transformation agenda.
NYE said its message is simple: Nigeria’s young population should not only be prepared for the jobs of tomorrow but should also be empowered to create the businesses, industries and employment opportunities of tomorrow.
‘Stop Calling Us Leaders of Tomorrow’ — Dr Esther Okereke Champions Youth Leadership
The 2027 presidential candidate of the National Rescue Movement, Dr. Esther Nkem Okereke, has urged Nigeria to stop treating young people as leaders of the distant future and begin giving them opportunities to lead today.
Okereke made the call in her special International Youth Day 2026 message, where she celebrated Nigerian youths for their achievements across several sectors.
She said young Nigerians have demonstrated leadership through entrepreneurship, technology, medicine, agriculture, entertainment, education, sports, journalism and innovation.
According to her, these achievements demonstrate that Nigerian youths do not lack capacity but often lack the institutional support required to maximise their potential.
She identified unemployment, rising living costs, insecurity, inadequate infrastructure and limited access to capital as major obstacles confronting young Nigerians.
Okereke said government must create an environment where young people can build careers, establish businesses and participate meaningfully in governance.
She called for stronger investment in education, healthcare, vocational development and digital skills.
The NRM candidate further demanded greater representation of young people in political decision-making, stressing that youth participation must extend beyond election campaigns.
She urged Nigerian youths to believe in their ability to influence national development and to participate responsibly in democracy.
“Nigerian youths are not merely leaders of tomorrow. They are builders, innovators and leaders today,” she said.
She reaffirmed her belief that a new Nigeria is possible when the country places human capital development at the centre of its national agenda.
HOMADIL VS EFCC: HOW A FROZEN BANK ACCOUNT TURNED INTO A FUNDAMENTAL RIGHTS CASE
A dispute that began with the restriction of a corporate bank account has evolved into a significant fundamental-rights case at the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory.
Homadil Realty Limited instituted proceedings after it was allegedly prevented from operating its Zenith Bank account.
The company told the court that the account had previously held more than ₦1 billion and that the restriction severely affected its real-estate operations.
The EFCC countered that the restriction was necessary because of an investigation into allegations involving financial fraud, property transactions and alleged forgery of title documents.
The Commission said it received a petition and carried out investigations before requesting restrictions on the account.
It also informed the court that a Federal High Court order was subsequently obtained in connection with the account.
The fundamental issue before Justice M. A. Hassan was whether the applicant's constitutional rights had been violated.
The court considered the arguments of the applicant, Zenith Bank and the EFCC before delivering judgment on April 23, 2026.
The supplied judgment summary records a victory for Homadil Realty, with ₦2 million awarded against the EFCC and another ₦2 million against Zenith Bank.
The case illustrates how a financial investigation can become a constitutional dispute when restrictions on property and bank funds are challenged before the courts.
Legal Dispute Over Guzape Property Expands Beyond Ownership Claims
The legal battle over a disputed property at Plot 4022, Guzape District, Abuja, has widened beyond questions of ownership following the filing of a cross-petition that seeks an independent review of ongoing criminal proceedings and related legal actions.
The cross-petition, filed in connection with the case, argues that the dispute now extends beyond determining who owns the property. It asks the appropriate authorities to review issues relating to the investigation, criminal prosecution, documentary evidence and other legal processes connected with the matter.
According to the filing, the dispute arose after competing claims emerged over the ownership of the property, despite an earlier sale transaction through which Mrs. Rebecca Omokamo Godwin-Isaac says she acquired the land. The petition states that she subsequently invested in developing the property, transforming it into a completed residential home occupied by her family.
The petition contends that the case has evolved into a complex legal dispute involving criminal proceedings alongside unresolved questions relating to ownership. It argues that the interaction between these issues warrants a fresh and independent review to ensure that all relevant facts are fully examined.
Among the matters highlighted in the cross-petition is the need for investigators to establish the complete chain of title relating to the property. The filing requests that all relevant documents connected with the transaction, including title documents, payment records and other supporting evidence, be carefully examined to determine their authenticity and legal effect.
The petition also seeks verification of the history of the property and requests that investigators review how competing ownership claims developed over time. According to the filing, resolving these issues is essential to determining the lawful ownership of the property.
The man who sold the property To the lady prosecuted by EFCC
Legal practitioners note that disputes involving land transactions can sometimes involve both civil and criminal proceedings. While civil matters generally focus on ownership and property rights, criminal proceedings examine whether any offences may have been committed during the transaction. Where both arise from the same set of facts, the legal process often requires careful consideration of documentary evidence and witness testimony.
The cross-petition further requests that investigators conduct an independent review of the investigative process, arguing that such a step would help address the issues raised in the filing and strengthen confidence in the eventual outcome of the case.
Observers say the matter has attracted attention because it illustrates the complexity of high-value property disputes, particularly where multiple legal processes are taking place at the same time. They note that the final determination of ownership and any related criminal issues rests with the appropriate authorities and the courts.
As of the time of this report, the issues raised in the cross-petition remain claims made by the petitioners and have not been determined by any court of law. The filing represents one side's position in the ongoing legal proceedings.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had not publicly responded to the specific issues raised in the cross-petition at the time of publication. All individuals connected with the matter remain entitled to the presumption of innocence, and the issues raised in the filing will ultimately be resolved through the judicial process based on the evidence presented before the court.
RULE OF LAW TAKES CENTRE STAGE AS FEDERAL HIGH COURT EXAMINES EFCC'S APPROACH IN HIGH-PROFILE PROPERTY DISPUTE
Judge's Reported Remarks Spark Wider Debate on Due Process, Bail Rights, and the Ownership Battle Over Plots 1861 and 1862
The Federal High Court proceedings involving Rebecca Omokamo Godwin-Isaac have evolved beyond an ordinary criminal prosecution into a case attracting wider public interest over the administration of justice, constitutional safeguards, and the proper exercise of prosecutorial powers.
During the latest hearing, the court reportedly declined an application by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) seeking to revoke Rebecca's bail and keep her in custody until 26 October 2026, a decision that has intensified public discussion about due process and the protection of fundamental rights.
According to reports from the courtroom, Justice Joyce Abdulmalik questioned the prosecution's handling of the matter, reportedly asking:
"Don't you think you are becoming too personal about this case? Are you witch-hunting something?"
The judge was also reported to have observed that previous court orders granting bail were intended to ensure the defendant's availability whenever required by the court, rather than to justify continued detention before the conclusion of the trial.
The courtroom exchange has since generated debate among legal practitioners, civil society organisations, and constitutional scholars on the importance of respecting judicial decisions, preserving the presumption of innocence, and ensuring that prosecutorial powers are exercised within the limits of the law.
Ownership of Plots 1861 and 1862 Still Before the Court
A major issue before the court remains the disputed ownership of Plots 1861 and 1862, which has yet to be finally determined through the judicial process.
The defence maintains that the properties were linked to May Estate Agency and Famfam Nigeria Limited, arguing that Colleen Mero Yesufu was neither an original allottee nor a director or shareholder of those companies. The defence submits that these issues should be conclusively resolved by the court before any determination regarding ownership is made.
The prosecution disputes those assertions, leaving the matter for judicial determination based on the evidence presented.
Questions Over Missing Land Administration Records
Proceedings also drew attention to an authorization reportedly issued to Shaka Braimah, who allegedly collected title documents relating to the disputed properties.
Evidence before the court reportedly indicated that officials of the FCT Department of Land Administration acknowledged that the authorization document could not presently be located.
The defence argues that the missing record raises important questions concerning the management, custody, and integrity of official land documents. The significance of that issue remains one for the court to evaluate during the trial.
A Broader Conversation About Constitutional Governance
Legal observers say the proceedings have increasingly become a broader test of constitutional governance, highlighting the need for judicial independence, institutional accountability, and unwavering respect for the rule of law.
Rebecca Omokamo Godwin-Isaac has not been convicted of any criminal offence, while the ownership of the disputed properties remains undetermined by the court.
Analysts note that, until the court delivers its final judgment, every party is entitled to a fair hearing, equal protection under the law, and the full benefit of the constitutional presumption of innocence.
They further argue that public confidence in Nigeria's justice system depends on impartial investigations, respect for court orders, and allowing the judiciary to determine disputed facts solely on the basis of credible evidence presented before it.
As proceedings continue, national attention is expected to remain focused not only on the eventual resolution of the ownership dispute but also on the judiciary's role in upholding due process, protecting constitutional rights, and reinforcing the rule of law.
EFCC UNDER FIRE AS COURT QUESTIONS PROSECUTION'S CONDUCT; RIGHTS GROUPS WARN AGAINST DISOBEDIENCE TO JUDICIAL ORDERS
Court Reportedly Asks EFCC: "Are You Witch-Hunting ?" as Dispute Over Plots 1861 & 1862 Raises Fresh Questions
The ongoing legal dispute involving Rebecca Omokamo Godwin-Isaac has taken a dramatic turn after the Federal High Court reportedly questioned the conduct of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), raising concerns over what the judge described as the appearance of a possible "witch-hunt."
According to proceedings reported in court, the EFCC sought to revoke Rebecca's bail and requested that she remain in custody until 26 October 2026. The court declined the application.
Justice Joyce Abdulmalik reportedly questioned the prosecution, asking:
"Don't you think you are becoming too personal about this case ?
Are you witch-hunting something?"
The judge reportedly emphasized that previous court orders were intended only to secure the defendant's appearance for trial, not to justify prolonged detention before any conviction.
The ruling has intensified public debate about the constitutional rights of citizens, the presumption of innocence, and the obligation of law enforcement agencies to comply fully with judicial decisions.
Questions Remain Over Ownership Claims:
At the centre of the dispute are Plots 1861 and 1862, whose ownership is contested before the court.
The defence maintains that the plots were linked to corporate entities, including May Estate Agency and Famfam Nigeria Limited, and argues that Colleen Mero Yesufu was neither an original allottee nor a director or shareholder of those companies.
According to the defence, these unresolved issues deserve careful judicial examination before any conclusion is reached regarding ownership.
The prosecution disputes the defence's position, and the matter remains before the court for determination.
Missing Document Raises Further Legal Questions:
Another issue highlighted during proceedings concerns an authorization allegedly issued to Shaka Braimah, who reportedly collected title documents relating to the disputed plots.
According to evidence presented in court, officials from the FCT Department of Land Administration acknowledged that the authorization document could not presently be located.
The defence argues that the absence of this document raises important questions about the chain of custody and authority relating to the land documents.
These issues remain matters for judicial determination.
Respect Court Orders and Due Process:
Observers say the case has evolved beyond a property dispute into a wider test of Nigeria's commitment to the rule of law.
Rebecca has not been convicted of any criminal offence, while ownership of the disputed properties remains the subject of ongoing court proceedings.
Legal analysts argue that where disputes remain unresolved, every party is entitled to fair hearing, equal treatment before the law, and full protection of constitutional rights.
Government agencies are expected to investigate professionally, respect court orders, and avoid actions that may create the impression of prejudice or disregard for judicial authority.
No public institution is above the Constitution, and no citizen should be punished before a competent court reaches a final judgment.
As the proceedings continue, many Nigerians will be watching closely, not only for the final determination of ownership, but also for reassurance that the rule of law, judicial independence, and respect for court decisions remain the foundation of justice in the country.
Our Political Correspondent Ibrahim Dauda reporting from Abuja Nigeria
Prominent federal and state lawmakers, parliamentary officials, legislative aides, journalists and democracy advocates will be honoured at the 2026 Legislative Excellence Awards scheduled for Thursday, July 9, 2026, at the NAF Conference Centre, Abuja.
Dr Barry Avotu Johnson 1st Country Director VOTES MUST COUNT INTERNATIONAL INITIATIVE
The event, organised by HallowMace Africa in partnership with ERGAF Africa, the International Goodwill Ambassador Club and the Isabella Ayuk Foundation, is aimed at recognising individuals who have distinguished themselves in legislative leadership, democratic governance, parliamentary administration and media coverage of the National Assembly.
Among the top award recipients are the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, former Senate President Ameh Ebute, former Governor and Speaker Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, and former Deputy Speaker Emeka Ihedioha, who will receive the Excellence in Legislative Leadership and Governance Award.
The organisers also announced that the Speaker of the Borno State House of Assembly, Abdulkarim Lawan, will receive the prestigious Long Service Achievement Award in recognition of his outstanding years of service and contributions to legislative development.
Senator Godswill Akpabio Senate President Nigeria 10th Senate
Outstanding legislators selected across the six geopolitical zones include Senators Enyinnaya Abaribe, Opeyemi Bamidele, Sunday Katung, Muhammed Monguno, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, Adams Oshiomhole, and Solomon Olamilekan, alongside outstanding members of the House of Representatives from the various geopolitical zones.
State House of Assembly Speakers recognised for outstanding leadership include Haruna Aliyu, Emomotimi Dennis Guwor, Adebo Ogundoyin, Somtochukwu Udeze, Abubakar Y. Suleiman, and Abdulmalik Sarkin Daji.
In the parliamentary service category, Dr. Cornelius Ikalumhe was named the Most Outstanding Parliamentary Staff (Senate), while Mr. Paul Adara Adiwu emerged as the Most Outstanding Parliamentary Staff (House of Representatives).
For legislative aides, Hajia Hauwa M. Lamin received the Most Outstanding Legislative Aide (Senate) award, while Mr. Agwunobi Peter Anochie was recognised as the Most Outstanding Legislative Aide (House of Representatives).
Hon Tajudeen Abass Speaker House of Reps
The media category honoured Oyediya Agwu Nancy Urum of AIT as the Most Outstanding Parliamentary Correspondent (Senate), Joke Adisa of TVC as the Most Outstanding Parliamentary Correspondent (House of Representatives), and Comrade Babalola Lukman Laleye of Emporium as the Most Outstanding Parliamentary Correspondent (New Media).
Media strategist and legislative analyst Barry Avotu Johnson will also be honoured with the Excellence in Legislative Commentary and Democratic Governance Award for his contributions to legislative reporting, democratic advocacy and public affairs analysis.
Other recipients include Senator Yemi Adaramodu, Nnenna Elendu-Ukeje, Babajimi Benson, Otive Igbuzor, Ben Rollands Igbakpa, Satomi Ahmed, Dozie Nwankwo, High Chief Barrister Emeka Nwala, Ahmed Aliyu Wadada, Biodun Olujimi, Ireti Kingibe, Abdul Ahmed Ningi, Ibrahim Isiaka, Ossai Nicholas Ossai, and Hajia Fatima Tajudeen Abbas, among others, for their contributions to legislative development, democratic governance, institutional leadership and public service.
Senator Abaribe
The awards ceremony is scheduled to commence at 4:00 p.m. at the NAF Conference Centre, Abuja. Former Senate President Ameh Ebute will chair the occasion, while Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, and former Senate President Bukola Saraki are expected as special guests of honour.
According to the organisers, the selection process was transparent and based on public nominations, parliamentary performance, democratic impact and professional excellence.
Senator Natasha Uduaghan
"These finalists have demonstrated uncommon dedication to legislative due process, constituency representation, and the advancement of democratic values.
We thank the Nigerian public and our media and parliamentary partners for ensuring a credible selection process.
July 9, 2026, will be a night of pure legislative honour," the organisers stated.
FIVE DAYS WITHOUT WATER, ELECTRICITY, GAS OR FOOD: REBECCA GODWIN-ISAAC CRIES OUT
EFCC Accused of Remaining at Guzape Residence Despite Federal High Court Order to Preserve Status Quo
By Our Correspondent Ibrahim Dauda from Abuja
ABUJA, Saturday, July 4, 2026
A legal dispute involving the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has escalated into a humanitarian concern following allegations by Amb. Dr. Rebecca Omokamo Godwin-Isaac that she has been left without access to water, electricity, cooking gas and adequate food for five consecutive days while remaining inside her residence in Guzape, Abuja.
According to Rebecca, the situation began on Monday, June 29, 2026, when EFCC operatives allegedly remained at her residence located at Plot 4022, Guzape, while essential utilities to the property were disconnected.
She claims that since then, she has lived in complete darkness, without running water, electricity or gas, leaving her unable to cook meals or carry out basic daily activities.
Describing her ordeal, Rebecca said she has endured hunger, thirst, emotional distress and uncertainty while confined to what she described as a home that has ceased to be a place of comfort and security.
The matter has now attracted wider public attention following proceedings before the Federal High Court.
According to court documents referenced by Rebecca's legal representatives, the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja, in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/151/2026, on Friday, July 3, 2026, issued an enrolled order directing all parties to maintain the status quo ante bellum, the position that existed before the disputed events pending the hearing and determination of the case.
Her representatives further allege that the enrolled order was duly served on the EFCC and that service was acknowledged.
Despite this, they contend that conditions at the residence have remained unchanged.
According to the allegations, electricity has not been restored, water remains unavailable, cooking gas has not been reconnected and EFCC operatives continue to remain at the property.
Can we put a blind ears to some of the Humanitarian Concerns relating to this issues.
Rebecca maintains that the dispute has gone beyond questions of property ownership and now concerns basic human welfare.
She says the absence of water has prevented normal sanitation and hygiene, while the lack of electricity has left the residence in darkness and rendered food preservation impossible.
The alleged disconnection of cooking gas, she says, has also made it impossible to prepare meals within the home.
Supporters argue that regardless of the underlying legal dispute, every Nigerian citizen should have access to the basic necessities required for human dignity while judicial proceedings are ongoing.
With the activities of the EFCC let's look at some Questions Raised.
The allegations have also raised broader questions regarding compliance with judicial directives and respect for the rule of law.
Legal observers note that once a court assumes jurisdiction over a dispute and directs parties to preserve the existing situation pending determination, compliance with such orders is regarded as fundamental to the administration of justice.
The EFCC has not publicly responded to the specific allegations contained in Rebecca's statement at the time of filing this report.
With a Call for Intervention Rebecca has appealed to the leadership of the EFCC, the National Human Rights Commission, the Attorney-General of the Federation, the Inspector-General of Police, civil society organisations, women's groups, religious leaders and other relevant authorities to intervene.
She is calling for the immediate restoration of water, electricity and cooking gas to the residence while the matter remains before the court, insisting that she seeks only the protection of the law and respect for judicial authority.
Her appeal concludes with a plea that no Nigerian should be denied access to basic necessities while awaiting the outcome of court proceedings.
As the legal process continues, the case is expected to generate significant public interest over issues relating to the rule of law, protection of fundamental rights and compliance with court orders by public institutions.
Our Editor's Note:
The allegations contained in this report reflect the claims of Amb. Dr. Rebecca Omokamo Godwin-Isaac and her representatives.
The EFCC has not publicly responded to these specific allegations at the time of publication, and the matter remains before the court.
