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Judiciary Threat to Democracy, Jonathan, Fubara Cry out

By David Torough, Abuja
Former President Goodluck Jonathan has taken a swipe at the nation’s judiciary, accusing that arm of government of undermining democracy and the rule of law.
Specifically, Jonathan decried the disruptive role of the judiciary in election litigations and internal democracy of political parties in the country.
The former president spoke on Thursday in Abuja at an event organised in celebration of the birthday of a renowned lawyer and human rights activist, Chief Mike Ozekhome, SAN.
Jonathan expressed concern about the negative impact of a number of court judgements on the credibility of elections.
Warning that partisan outlook of judicial officers could destabilise the political landscape, the former president stressed the need to preserve the integrity of the judicial and electoral processes in the country.
To buttress his point, he cited a case in which a high court upheld the suspension of a national chairman of a major political party by his Ward chairman.
Even though Jonathan did not mention the parties involved, it was a veiled reference to the case of a former National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dr. Iyorchia Ayu.
Ayu was in March 2023 suspended by the local Igyorov Ward PDP chairman in his Gboko Local Government Area of Benue State for alleged anti party activities.
The suspension was upheld by a high court in Benue State despite the fact that the suspension order was against provisions of the PDP constitution.
He noted that such decisions of the courts tend to undermine the structural integrity essential for political stability.
“This judgment has turned the cone upside down. It fosters instability within political parties and jeopardises democratic governance,” Jonathan said.
The former president stressed the necessity for a strong and independent judiciary as a cornerstone of democracy.
He urged legal professionals and judicial officers to resist external political influences, asserting that justice must be served impartially.
“If the courts fail to address this issue, it could lead to widespread instability in the political system, affecting us all,” he added.
He expressed concern about the overwhelming volume of election-related litigations at every election cycle, saying that the development contrasts with practices in other nations where such disputes are handled more constructively.
“Most countries do not experience this level of court involvement in electoral matters,” he noted, even as he called for reforms to streamline the judiciary’s role in political processes.
He charged the political elite and other stakeholders to collectively work towards strengthening the rule of law.
The former Nigerian leader said without a stable legal foundation, political victories could easily be undermined using the instrumentality of the courts.
Echoing Jonathan, the Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara frontally attacked judges, who he alleged, were taking bribes to pervert the cause of justice in the festering political crisis in the oil rich state.
Fubara spoke yesterday at the opening of the 2024/2025 Legal Year and Re-Dedication Service at the Cathedral Church of St. Paul’s, Anglican Communion in, Diobu, Port Harcourt.
Obviously miffed by the conflicting court judgements arising from litigations in Rivers State political crisis, the governor invoked God’s judgement on some judges “for collecting bribes to twist justice.”
He spoke in the backdrop of a deluge of court pronouncements regarding the recently concluded Rivers State local government election and the crisis rocking the state’s House of Assembly.
Addressing the gathering, Fubara accused some unnamed legal luminaries of smearing their conscience by canvassing what he described as professional aberrations to please their political paymasters.
“Some of you, you say you are legal luminaries. You know the truth, but you will go on air just to pacify your paymasters to turn the law upside down.
“We all know the law when it comes to issues that have to do with the administration of governance in the state; it is within the jurisdiction of the State High Court. It doesn’t matter whether you joined INEC, or Police. It is a state’s matter. I am not a lawyer, but I know that one. And you stand and say you are doing the right thing? God will judge you,” the governor fumed.
Fubara noted that within the temple of justice, judges are seen to represent God, who must not be afraid to look at those who come to equity and dispense justice without fear or favour.
The governor warned that court judgments have far-reaching implications and as such, care must be taken in making judicial pronouncements.
“Let me say it here so that you will understand: Judges, you are the God that we are seeing. Your position is to stand and defend us. Your position is to look at whoever and tell the person the truth.
“Because if you don’t do it here, you will have a big question to answer. The preacher said it, every evil done in the course of administering justice, you will pay for it dearly.”
The governor however, commended the Rivers State Judiciary, particularly, the High Court Divisions for their sundry support, which he said, have contributed to keeping his administration going despite calculated antagonisms.
He noted that some judicial officers in the state were being threatened, physically assaulted or slammed with frivolous petitions aimed at coercing them into submission.
“I want to thank the Rivers State Judiciary, more especially, the High Court of Rivers State, for your support, for keeping this administration afloat up until this hour.
“We know quite alright that a good number of you have been threatened by way of phone calls and even physical assaults. We are also aware that some of you have been threatened professionally through petitions that are fake and frivolous.
“But one thing that you need to understand is that you must be persecuted when you are doing the right thing.
“And those of you who are doing the right thing that are being fought from all sides, be courageous. Very soon, this whole thing will be over. Nothing lasts forever,” stated.
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United Capital Reports N11.9bn Profit, Declares N5.4bn Interim Dividend
United Capital Plc has reported a profit after tax of N11.9 billion for the first half of 2025.This represents a 54 percent increase from N7.74 billion profit recorded for the first half of 2024.The company announced this in a corporate disclosure on Monday through the Nigerian Exchange Ltd.
The profit before tax also grew by 52 per cent, from N9. 06 billion in 2024 to N13.79 billion while the gross earnings rose by 57 per cent, from N15. 15 billion to N23.76 billion.The net operating income climbed to N21.32 billion compared to N12.76 billion in 2024, a 67 per cent year-on-year growth.Operating expenses witnessed a 49 percent increase to N10.61 billion from N7.12 billion of 2024.Commenting on the group’s performance, the bank’s Group Chief Executive Officer, Peter Ashade, said, “I am pleased to inform all stakeholders that United Capital Plc ended the first half of the year on a strong and positive note.“This is continuing our track record of excellence and strong financial performance, as demonstrated by our remarkable earnings growth and robust performance across key financial metrics, despite the prevailing macroeconomic challenges and market volatility.“During the period under review, we recorded significant financial growth, with gross earnings increasing by 57 per cent year-on-year to N23.76 billion.“Profit before tax grew by 52 per cent year-on-year to N13.79 billion, profit after tax rose by 54 per cent year-on-year to N11.89 billion, while Shareholders’ Funds grew by 25 per cent year-to-date to N166.91 billion.“This is a testament to the strength of our capital base and the confidence reposed in us by our investors,” he said.Ashade noted that “these results reflect the resilience of the company’s business model, the dedication of people, and the effective execution of our strategy across our business lines.“As we look ahead to the second half of the year, we remain focused and firmly committed to sustaining this strong performance.“With a solid foundation, a clear strategic direction and our retail and Pan-African play in full-force.“United Capital is well-positioned to continue delivering superior returns to shareholders and providing best-in-class solutions to all our stakeholders.“Finally, to reward our esteemed shareholders, we are excited to announce the payment of an interim dividend of 30 kobo per share for 50 kobo ordinary shares of the company.“This represents a payout of N5.4 billion. We have obtained the approval of the board and details will be shared with our shareholders,” he added. (NAN)COVER
Tinubu Confers National Honour on Triumphant Super Falcons

By David Torough, Abuja
President Bola Tinubu has bestowed the national honour of Officer of the Order of the Niger, on the Super Falcons and the entire technical crew.Tinubu also allocated three-bedroom apartments in Abuja to each of the players and the technical crew at the Renewed Hope Estate.
The President also directed the cash award of the naira equivalent of $100,000 each of the 24 players and $50,000 to each of the 11-man technical crew. This came during a reception in honour of the players and the coaching crew at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.He said, “I hereby conferred on the players, the 11-man technical team, with national honours of the Officer of the Order of the Niger.“Additionally, I have directed the allocation of three-bedroom apartments in the Renewed Hope Housing Scheme.“Then there is the cash award of the naira equivalent of $100,000 US dollars each 24 players and the naira equivalent of $50,000 to the 11-man technical crew.”“You have inspired millions, especially young girls who now see proof that their dreams are valid and achievable.“You have inspired me, too. And it’s great for a nation to have assets that are the hope of today, tomorrow, and the day after. You represent that hope. You ignited that hope. And we will continue to encourage you, the next generation, and other generations after you.”The President recounted the emotional moments of the final match, noting how the team’s performance lifted the nation’s spirits and united Nigerians from all walks of life.“Your victory represents more than a sporting accomplishment. It is a triumph of courage, determination, discipline and consistency.“Honestly, I didn’t want to watch the match. I didn’t want to have high blood pressure. But people came in and turned my TV on that channel. When it was 2-0, I got very offended and restless.“But I was still watching with the spirit of resilience, determination, and courage. And after that penalty, my strength was lifted, and I believe that of the nation was lifted too.“But you almost made me angrier because your mother (the First Lady) was in the kitchen, nearly abandoning my dinner.”She doesn’t watch the game except when the girls are playing. And at the end of the final whistle, it was joy all over the country,” he said.The President assured the team of his administration’s continued support and commitment to sports development, pledging that the government would invest further in women’s football and youth talent development across the country.“Your story is a story of hope. And in this era of Renewed Hope, we celebrate you not just as champions of Africa, but as champions of the Nigerian dream.”In a further show of appreciation, the Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, also announced a donation of N10 million to each of the players and technical team members on behalf of the 36 state governors.The First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, described the Super Falcons as role models and shining examples of courage and excellence.She congratulated the team for their exceptional performance and unwavering spirit, describing their journey as “a testament to resilience, teamwork, and determination.”“You played with passion, confidence, and an unshakeable belief in yourselves—that it is not over until it is over.“The zeal you displayed on the pitch was nothing short of inspirational. You never wavered and reminded the world why Nigeria remains a powerhouse in African women’s football.”The First Lady prayed for the team’s continued success and shared an earlier conversation with President Tinubu about the team’s bright future as world champions.“I told Mr. President this morning that you are going to win the World Cup, and he thought I was too ambitious. But Ajibade, the team captain, just seconded that, and that is possible,” he said.Super Falcons Captain Rasheedat Ajibade said the victory was for the team and for every Nigerian girl who dreams of achieving greatness.“Today, I stand before you not just as the captain of the Super Falcons, but as a proud daughter of Nigeria, carrying the dreams, resilience, and spirit of our great nation,” she said.“On behalf of my teammates, coaches, and technical staff, I express our heartfelt gratitude for this warm reception and the unwavering belief you have shown in us.”Emphasising the significance of their 10th WAFCON title, the team captain said, “This victory is not just a trophy. It is a testament to the unyielding spirit of Nigeria. It is a celebration of every young girl in our villages, towns, and cities who dares to dream… This 10th title is for you, Mr. President, for Nigerians, for Super Falcons, and for every young child who believes and dreams of being on this stage someday.”Ajibade called for continued support from the government and stakeholders to elevate Nigeria’s global standing in women’s football.Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko, described the team’s victory as a symbol of national unity, inspiration, and the triumph of belief, courage, and excellence.Dikko credited President Tinubu’s administration with investing in sports development and women’s empowerment.“The Super Falcons’ triumph is a fruit of your unwavering support for sports and women. You have always believed that sports can unite us, heal us, and uplift our spirits as one of the major drivers of the economy. And today, we have seen it happen,” he stated.He commended the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for her “constant support for our women in sports.”“This win goes beyond sports. It is a powerful symbol of our national unity and cohesion. In those 90 minutes, Nigerians everywhere from the north, south, east and west held their breath, prayed together, cheered the team, and finally celebrated together.”That is the power of sports, and indeed the power of our women in sports,” he said.COVER
NCS Strengths Ties with China Customs

By Tony Obiechina Abuja
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has deepened its strategic engagement with the General Administration of Customs of China (GACC) through a high-level meeting held in Beijing on July 25.According to NCS Spokesman, Abdullahi Maiwada in a statement on Sunday, Assistant Comptroller of Customs, the meeting aimed to explore bilateral knowledge exchange and capacity development in customs administration.
The NCS delegation, led by Assistant Comptroller-General of Customs Oluyomi Adebakin, discussed customs training methodologies, modernization models, and technology-driven solutions with GACC officials. The Chinese Customs authorities shared their structured training system, which incorporates virtual reality, 5G-enabled systems, and blended e-learning approaches.The meeting highlighted Nigeria’s active participation in China-led customs development initiatives, with over 200 African customs officers trained since 2023. The Chinese Customs officials commended Nigeria’s growing leadership in international customs platforms and appreciated the election of the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, as Chairperson of the World Customs Organisation (WCO) Council.Both parties expressed mutual interest in exploring technical exchange programs, joint research initiatives, and officer exchange schemes. The NCS aims to strengthen its human capital, advance intergovernmental partnerships, and modernize customs operations in accordance with global standards.The engagement aligns with promoting knowledge sharing, harmonizing customs procedures, and building an integrated trade infrastructure for sustainable development, particularly under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).