Metro
Ibadin Hails Tinubu, Says Judgment on Full Financial Autonomy for LGs Will Enhance Security, Community Policing
Chief Executive Officer, Badinson Security Services, Mr. Matthew Ibadin, has applauded the President Bola Tinubu-led Federal Government for the Supreme Court judgment, which granted full financial autonomy to the 774 local government areas of the Federation, saying that the judgment will enhance the security architecture of the local authorities, which is the government closest to the people.
Ibadin’s reaction, which is contained in statement he signed himself, is a consequence of the groundbreaking judgment delivered on Thursday by a seven-man Supreme Court justices led by Justice Emmanuel Agim, ordering among other rules that local government funds should henceforth be paid directly to the local government councils’ accounts.
“This landmark judgment is a significant step towards fostering development, enhancing security, and improving infrastructure across the nation.
“It is an achievement worthy of celebration, especially as we mark the president’s one year in office. This decision is a birthday gift to all Nigerians, as it will undoubtedly accelerate development at the grassroots level,” he said
Mr. Ibadin lamented the previous situation where local governments were unable to initiate and execute projects due to financial constraints, saying that the time of lukewarm administration is over.
“It is a shame that before now, local governments could not undertake any projects to improve their communities; all they could do was issue marriage certificates, birth certificates and death certificates. This judgment will change that narrative and empower local governments to take charge of their development agenda,” he said.
Ibadin further beckoned on the government to address another critical issue, which is the establishment of state and local government police. He suggested that Nigeria could benefit from adopting aspects of the American system of policing, which is renowned for its effective structure. In the United States, there are state police forces and elected county sheriffs who have specific responsibilities to their communities. These responsibilities include enforcing court orders, seizing property, serving warrants and legal papers, and pursuing assets.
Mr. Ibadin urged the Presidency to send a bill to the National Assembly to establish state and local government police forces. “This move will significantly enhance our ability to tackle insecurity at the local level because crime is local. Empowering local law enforcement agencies will ensure that security measures are tailored to the peculiar needs of each community,” he stated.
He also criticized the practice of governors removing local government chairmen from office, calling it an aberration of the constitution. “Just as it is unconstitutional for the president to remove a democratically elected governor from office, the same principle should apply to local government chairmen,” Mr. Ibadin added.
Additionally, he highlighted the importance of local governments regaining control over primary schools. “Local governments should have the authority to manage primary education within their jurisdictions. This will ensure that educational policies and programs are aligned with the specific needs of local communities, thereby improving the quality of education for our children,” Mr. Ibadin concluded.
Mr. Ibadin also advocated for the adoption of true federalism, where state governments are allowed to formulate and translate policies tailored to their own needs. He suggested that states that are not viable should be acquired by more viable ones. “For example, if Ogun State is not viable, Lagos State should have the constitutional right to acquire it for the sake of development,” he explained.
“States should be allowed to generate revenue and pay taxes to the federal government. States should not be collecting allocations monthly; rather, they should be in control of their own resources and pay taxes to the federal government. Any state that cannot contribute to the center should be acquired by neighboring states, just as banks acquire banks.”
He further proposed regional integration, urging the integration of South-West, South-East, North-West, and North-East regional systems into the constitution.
As the nation celebrates this landmark judgment, the focus now shifts to implementing these changes and ensuring that local governments are adequately equipped to fulfill their new responsibilities. In doing so, we must respect the rule of law, which is the foundation of our democracy and the key to sustainable development and security in our nation.
The Trade Union Congress (TUC) has expressed concern over the rising pressure on workers’ welfare and economic conditions of the country.
The Congress warned that it would embark on nationwide protest, if there is no improvement.
The warning was conveyed in in a communiqué jointly signed by the TUC President, Mr. Festus Osifo, and Secretary-General, Mr. Nuhu Toro, at the end of its National Executive Council (NEC) meeting in Abuja.
The Congress said the NEC meeting reviewed the state of the nation, developments within the congress, preparations for the 2026 May Day celebration, and other critical issues affecting Nigerian workers.
“The prevailing economic hardship has significantly affected the living standards of Nigerian workers, making daily survival increasingly difficult.
“We are closely monitoring the situation, and if there is no improvement, the congress will have no option but to mobilise workers in defence of their welfare.
“Government must urgently take concrete steps to address the rising cost of living and restore confidence in the economy,” it said.
The Congress said rising fuel prices, inflation, electricity tariff increases and insecurity had combined to erode workers’ purchasing power and living standards.
It noted that global developments, including the Iran–U.S. conflict, were further worsening economic pressures through higher energy costs and supply chain disruptions.
According to the TUC, Nigerian workers have not benefited from higher global oil prices but continue to face rising costs of transportation, food and essential services.
It urged the Federal Government to deploy excess crude revenue to cushion economic shocks and support vulnerable citizens.
The congress also called for urgent measures to stabilise fuel prices, improve electricity supply, and address insecurity nationwide.
It emphasised the need for policies that promote decent work, job security and social protection.
“The government must prioritise the welfare, dignity and security of Nigerian workers in all policy decisions,” it said.
The TUC further called for tax relief for manufacturing companies and workers to ease economic pressure and stimulate productivity.
On electricity, it condemned repeated tariff increases without improved service delivery and demanded fair pricing, universal metering, and an end to estimated billing.
The congress expressed concern over rising insecurity, describing it as a major threat to economic activities and workers’ safety.
It urged government at all levels to adopt coordinated, intelligence-driven strategies to protect lives, farms, businesses and critical infrastructure.
“A stitch in time saves nine,” the communiqué added.
A small-scale grocery seller from Plateau State, Ejiofor Akujieze, has emerged the grand prize winner of ₦5 million in the Golden Morn Golden Hunt, a nationwide consumer campaign by Nestlé Nigeria that rewarded Nigerians with a total of ₦80 million in cash and prizes.
Akujieze, who expressed surprise at his win, described the moment as life-changing. “It came as a shock to me. I won ₦5 million, and it will go a long way. I am very grateful,” he said, noting that the prize will support the expansion of his grocery business.
The Golden Morn Golden Hunt, which commenced in January 2026, recorded strong participation from consumers across the country, with over 200,000 entries received. Designed around Golden Morn’s smaller, affordable pack sizes to encourage wider participation, the campaign made it easier for more Nigerians to take part. At the end of seven draws, a total of 16,324 winners emerged, receiving cash prizes ranging from ₦10,000 to ₦1 million, alongside airtime rewards and exciting items such as washing machines, MacBooks, iPhones, and 55-inch televisions, in addition to the grand prize.
Speaking on the campaign, Omofasa Orhiunu, Category Manager, Healthy Cereals at Nestlé Nigeria, said the initiative was designed to connect more closely with consumers while giving them an opportunity to experience the brand.
“Golden Morn has been part of everyday life for Nigerian families, and with the Golden Hunt, we wanted more people to experience that,” he said. “It gave both our loyal consumers and new ones the opportunity to enjoy a nourishing product that fits into their daily routines, while also being rewarded in a simple and accessible way.”
Also speaking, Wassim Elhusseini, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Nestlé Nigeria Plc, said the campaign reflects the company’s commitment to creating value for consumers beyond its products.
“For over 40 years, Golden Morn has been nourishing Nigerian families and earning their trust,” he said. “The Golden Hunt was our way of recognising that trust and giving back in a way that is meaningful and inclusive. What has been most inspiring are the real stories behind the wins, how this has made a difference in people’s lives. That is what truly matters to us.”
Golden Morn, a cherished homegrown brand, continues to provide wholesome nourishment made from carefully selected grains. It is enriched through its Grain Smart blend, which combines essential vitamins and minerals to support energy and overall wellbeing for individuals and families.
Through initiatives like the Golden Hunt, Nestlé Nigeria continues to strengthen its connection with consumers while delivering on its commitment to providing accessible, nutritious food and supporting thriving communities across the country.
A presidential aspirant of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Peter Obi, on Monday, consulted former President Goodluck Jonathan on the state of the nation ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Obi disclosed this after a closed-door meeting with the former president in Abuja. He led a delegation of South-East political leaders to the meeting, including serving and former lawmakers, as well as former Governor of Imo State, Achike Udenwa.
Briefing journalists after the meeting, the former Anambra State governor said the visit was part of ongoing consultations ahead of the 2027 elections.
“Notable South-East leaders have come in consultation with our respected former president. That is basically what it is—on the 2027 elections and, overall, about Nigeria,” Obi said.
Obi has been holding meetings with political heavyweights across the country as part of ongoing consultations ahead of the ADC presidential primary for the 2027 general elections.
Last week, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party was in Bauchi with South-East leaders, where they held a closed-door meeting with Bala Mohammed.
Speaking after the meeting, Obi said the visit was focused on building national unity and strengthening cooperation across regions.
“My purpose is to solicit the support and cooperation of His Excellency and the stakeholders of Bauchi and the North-East in our quest to unite this country. We want to have a united country to build a future for our children.
“The country cannot continue the way it is today; we are headed in the wrong direction, and we need to reverse that for everybody. That is the simple purpose of why we are here – to seek the support of the stakeholders of Bauchi in building a new Nigeria that will be of benefit to all,” he added.
