Author: Platform Times Newspaper

Former Governor Achike Udenwa of Imo State has raised startling allegations, revealing the extent to which money influences electoral outcomes in Nigeria. In a candid interview on Edmund Obilo’s State Affairs podcast, Udenwa asserted that wealthy politicians can purchase not only votes but also the integrity of critical institutions such as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the police, and even the army. “Our society has regrettably reached a point where electoral success hinges more on financial capacity than on merit or public trust,” Udenwa remarked. He emphasized that Nigerian voters often neglect to scrutinize candidates’ backgrounds and capabilities, instead…

Gunmen posing as operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) have shocked residents of Shiroro Road, Chanchaga LGA in Niger state. The incident, which unfolded at approximately 4:58 am on February 27, saw the assailants storm the serene confines of White Hill Hotel. According to reports from Zagazola Makama, a reputable counter-insurgency publication focused on the Lake Chad region, the perpetrators meticulously disabled the hotel’s CCTV surveillance system before commencing their operation. Moving methodically from room to room, they seized ten unsuspecting guests under the guise of an official EFCC operation, leaving no trace behind. “The public has…

The Court of Appeal sitting in Lagos has dismissed the appeal brought by Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Femi Falana, seeking to prohibit public officers from seeking medical treatment abroad at public expense. The judgment, delivered on January 30th, 2025, upheld the earlier ruling of the Federal High Court, Ikeja, asserting that the right to adequate medical facilities in Nigeria falls under the Fundamental Objective and Directive Principles of State Policy, which are non-justiciable. Justice Polycarp Terna Kwahar, who led the three-man panel of justices, emphasized that preventing Nigerians, including public officers, from seeking medical attention outside the country when necessary…

Daud Olatunji The Olu of Itori, Oba Abdulfatai Akorede Akamo, has come under criticism following his decision to confer the title of “King of Street” on controversial musician, Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable. PLATFORM TIMES reports that the Eselu of Iselu Kingdom in Yewa North Local Government Area of Ogun State, Oba Akintunde Akinyemi, strongly condemned the installation, describing it as “untraditional and illegal.” In an open letter addressed to the Chairman of the Ogun State Council of Obas and Chiefs, Oba Kehinde Olugbenle, the Eselu of Iselu expressed disappointment over the act, stating that the title has no…

The Federal Government, through the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, has placed 461 individuals under surveillance as Lassa fever spreads to 11 states, triggering fresh public health concerns. Data from the NCDC indicates that the acute viral disease has now affected 63 local government areas, with cases surging beyond last year’s figures. In the first six weeks of 2025, Lassa fever has claimed 80 lives from 1,913 suspected cases—surpassing the 48 deaths recorded during the same period in 2024. The NCDC report highlights that frontline health workers are also at risk, with at least 11 medical personnel infected…

António Guterres, the Secretary-General of the United Nations (UN), has issued a stark warning regarding the recent decision by the United States to slash humanitarian and development funding, stating that it will have severe consequences for millions of vulnerable people worldwide. In a passionate address, Guterres emphasized that the cuts jeopardize essential humanitarian assistance and development projects crucial for global stability. He expressed deep concern over the potential exacerbation of conditions for vulnerable populations, spanning conflict zones and disaster-stricken areas. “The reduction in US financial support will be devastating for millions around the world,” Guterres stated, underscoring the direct impact…

The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has clarified recent reports claiming the shutdown of Ladoke Akintola Airport in Ibadan, dismissing them as inaccurate. This clarification follows misconceptions arising from a social media post by Michael Achimugu, Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection at NCAA. Achimugu’s post initially indicated a potential six-month closure of the airport starting March for maintenance and upgrade purposes, pending further developments. However, he expressed dismay over how his statement was misrepresented in the media. “I don’t understand how any journalist would take this post and caption it, ‘NCAA shuts down Ibadan Airport.’ My post never…

Mrs. Ekaette Akpabio, wife of Senate President Senator Godswill Akpabio, has taken legal action against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, following allegations of sexual harassment leveled against her husband. The dispute arose after Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan claimed that Senator Akpabio made unwelcome advances during a visit to his Uyo residence in December 2023, remarks made during an interview on Arise Television. In response to these allegations, Mrs. Akpabio addressed the media on Friday, vehemently denying the accusations and defending her husband’s character as disciplined and affable. She expressed deep concern over the emotional and psychological distress caused to her family by the allegations,…

In the aftermath of recent Supreme Court rulings concerning Rivers State’s political landscape, a looming crisis threatens to disrupt governance stability. Former chairmen from 21 out of 23 local government areas in Rivers State have declared their intent to resume office starting Monday, March 3, 2025. This decision follows the Supreme Court’s judgments and the purported extension of their tenure by the Martins Amaewhule-led legislature. Dr. Samuel Nwanosike, former chairman of Ikwerre local government area, asserted their legitimacy in a widely circulated social media video. “By the judgment of the Supreme Court, I remain the chairman of Ikwerre LGA,” Nwanosike…

The National President of the Afenifere Youth Council (AYC), Eniola Ojajuni, has regained his freedom after spending 12 days in captivity. Ojajuni, who was abducted by gunmen in Abuja on February 18, was released on Saturday, March 1, 2025, after a ransom was reportedly paid to secure his freedom. Confirming the development, AYC National Secretary, Abiodun Aderohunmu, expressed relief over his release, stating that Ojajuni was undergoing medical treatment due to injuries sustained during the ordeal. “We are delighted to announce that our president, Prince Eniola Joseph Ojajuni, has been released from captivity. He was freed today, March 1, 2025,…