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.”

Wives of Nigerian Senators, have commiserated with one of their members Hajia Laila Barau, over the death of her mother, Mrs Nelda Mohammed, describing it as an “irreplaceable loss.”

A condolence message signed by the President, Senators Wives Association of Nigeria (SEWAN) Dr (Mrs) Unoma Godswill Akpabio, and made available to newsmen in Abuja, reads:

“We, the Senators’ Wives Association of Nigeria, extend our heartfelt condolences on the passing of your beloved mother. This irreparable loss undoubtedly brings immense grief to you and your family.

“We also commiserate with the Deputy Senate President, Distinguished Senator Jibrin Barau and the entire family over her demise and prays for her soul to rest in the bosom of the Lord.

“May the memories of your mother’s love, wisdom, and legacy bring you strength and comfort during this difficult time. We stand in solidarity with you, sharing in your sorrow and offering our deepest sympathies and may Almighty Allah grant her Jannatul Firdaus.

Dr. Mrs. Unoma Akpabio
President, Senators’ Wives Association of Nigeria.

By David Owei,Bayelsa

The 2nd Phase Camp Leaders’ training on “Leadership, Alternative Dispute Resolution and Mediation”, sponsored by the Presidential Amnesty Programme (PAP), has successfully come to a close Friday on a commendable note.

The intensive leadership-building initiative, held under the distinguished leadership of the Administrator of the PAP, High Chief Dr. Dennis Brutu Otuaro, aimed to equip leaders with practical skills in peacebuilding, mediation, and conflict resolution—critical tools for sustaining peace in the Niger Delta region.

Reacting to the successful completion of the programme, General Elaye ThankGod Dollar Slaboh, National Chairman of the Third Phase Presidential Amnesty Programme, alongside his national leadership, congratulated the participants for their commitment and active engagement throughout the training.

General Elaye commended Dr. Otuaro for his visionary leadership and strategic direction, which is rapidly changing the dynamics of the Presidential Amnesty Programme, shifting it towards human capital development and long-term peace.

He emphasized that such initiatives are essential for reinforcing grassroots leadership and consolidating the peace already being enjoyed in the region.

> “This training is not just a success for the 2nd Phase; it is a win for the entire Niger Delta. The wisdom of High Chief Otuaro in investing in leadership and conflict resolution will continue to bear fruit,” General Elaye stated.

The Presidential Amnesty Programme continues to champion developmental engagements that bridge gaps, empower beneficiaries, and promote sustainable peace in the Niger Delta.