By Our Correspondent
Senator Abubakar Sadiq Yar’adua has formally resigned his membership of the All Progressives Congress ( APC ), citing the party’s departure from its founding ideals and describing the current administration as “selfish and stinkingly corrupt

In a strongly worded resignation letter addressed to his colleagues and the Nigerian public, Yar’adua, a founding member of both the defunct Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) and the APC, accused the ruling party of betraying the masses and abandoning its original mission of service to the people.

“I can not remain in a party or support a government that unashamedly watches its citizens being maimed, intimidated, sexually-harassed, assaulted, killed and displaced… while the government, its leadership and organs… remain aloof and unconcerned,” Yar’adua stated.

He further criticized the economic policies of the APC-led government, labeling them “destructive” and targeted at the “welfare, dignity, lands and livelihood” of Nigerians . He likened those in power to “urban bandits” and declared his intention to work with other like-minded individuals to democratically oust the current administration.

His exit marks a significant development in Katsina State politics and could trigger more defections, especially among disillusioned party loyalists.

Yar’adua concluded his statement with a call to action: “I, therefore, have no option other than to join hands with like-minds to democratically remove this bad, selfish and stinkingly corrupt administration.”

By George Mgbeleke

President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has been honoured with the International Peace Award by the Global Peace Movement International

The international recognition, it was gathered, is in recognition of Akpabio’s outstanding contributions to global diplomacy and parliamentary excellence.

According to Global Peace organisation, “Global Peace Movement International is delighted to announce that Senator Godswill Akpabio, the esteemed Senate President of Nigeria, has been honored with the prestigious International Peace Award.

“This distinction is a testament to his exceptional leadership and vision as an Executive Member of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) and one of the esteemed Commissioners worldwide. His pivotal role in restoring Nigeria’s IPU membership, a distinction lost over five decades ago, is a monumental achievement that showcases his dedication to reinstating Nigeria’s prominent position on the global stage.

” This feat has not only elevated Nigeria’s international stature but also underscored Senator Akpabio’s unwavering commitment to fostering global cooperation and understanding.

“The Global Peace Movement International takes great pride in recognizing and honoring Akpabio’s remarkable achievements, celebrating his profound impact on Nigeria’s diplomatic landscape and his tireless efforts in promoting peace, unity, and cooperation. His exemplary leadership and enduring legacy are shaping a brighter future for our beloved nation, Nigeria.

“In light of these extraordinary accomplishments, the Global Peace Movement International will present the International Peace Award to Senator Godswill Akpabio in August 2025. This award serves as a testament to his outstanding contributions to global peace and diplomacy, and we are confident that his leadership will continue to inspire a new generation of leaders and citizens alike.”

By David Owei,Bayelsa

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Bayelsa state on Monday said they are fully prepared for the Continuous Voters Registration (CVR) Excercise across the state which will commenced shortly.

Addressing journalists at the state INEC headquarters in Yenagoa the state capital, the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) Mallam. Isah Shaka Ehimeakhe, disclosed that the Pre-registration will begin on the 18th of August 2025 via the official INEC portal.

He said the portal will enables citizens to fill an application form and upload their details online. But, they validate their registration at any of the approved designated center.

The REC who was newly posted to the state and assumed office in June 2025 further said, registered voters who wish to change their voting locations, update their information or replace their list or damaged PVCs can also do so via the portal.

According to him, In-Person/Physical registration commences on Sunday, August 25th, 2025 at all INEC Local Government Area Registration Centers across Bayelsa state. “All eligible persons are encouraged to begin the process early to avoid last minute congestion”.

Mal. Ehimeakhe said, ” voter registration is not only a fundamental right but also a duty of every eligible citizen of Nigeria. No individual can vote in an election unless they are duly registered to do so. We all Nigerians who have attained the age of 18 and have not registered to seize the this opportunity.

” Your Permanent Voter’s Card (PVC) is your voice and power. Without it, you are excluded from the nation-building process and decision making”.

Speaking further said, the registration is mainly for people that have clock 18 years and for those that have not registered at all in order to avoid double registration. “Under age registration will not be allowed”.

“INEC calls on all stakeholders, traditional rulers, religious leaders, political parties, youth and women groups, civil society organisations, the media and community heads to support and promote this voter registration drive. Your involvement is crucial to ensuring a smooth, inclusive, and credible registration process.

“The commission remains resolute in protecting the voting rights of every of eligible Nigerian. No eligible citizen will be denied the opportunity to register and vote. INEC will collaborate with security agencies and other partners to ensure a peaceful, secure and transparent registration excercise”.