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Nigerian Citizens Educate Wole Olanipekun, SAN on Expired Passports and Citizenship Status

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Nigerian citizens found themselves at the center of a heated exchange during a recent court case involving the PDP. Wole Olanipekun, SAN, representing Tinubu & Shettima, clashed with a witness who happened to be a lawyer, focusing on Tinubu’s Guinean Diplomatic passport, which had expired in 2020. However, it was Nigerian citizens who clarified the crucial point that the expiration of the passport’s data page did not nullify Tinubu’s citizenship. As a result, he continues to be recognized as a citizen of Guinea. This confrontational interaction shed light on the important distinction between expired passports and citizenship, prompting a deeper examination of the implications for Nigerian citizens residing abroad.

In a courtroom confrontation during a recent case involving the PDP, Wole Olanipekun, SAN, representing Tinubu & Shettima, directed his questioning towards a witness who was also a lawyer. The main focus of the exchange centered around Tinubu’s Guinean Diplomatic passport and the confirmation of his Guinean citizenship by the Guinean Authorities.

Olanipekun pressed the witness to confirm whether the Guinean Authorities had verified the existence of Tinubu’s Guinean Diplomatic passport. The witness responded by informing the court that the former President of Guinea, Alpha Conde, had indeed confirmed Tinubu’s Guinean citizenship. Despite this response, Olanipekun persistently demanded further clarification from the witness.

In an attempt to challenge the witness’s credibility, the lawyer pointed out that Tinubu’s passport had expired in 2020. However, the witness quickly clarified the distinction, stating, “The data page expired, not the citizenship. Tinubu is still a citizen of Guinea.” This clarification highlighted an essential point: the expiration of a passport does not automatically invalidate an individual’s citizenship.

Feeling the weight of the situation, the lawyer sought to provoke the witness by asking if he wanted to be implicated in any potential scandals. In response, the witness firmly asserted his commitment to honesty and integrity, stating that he would not engage in forgery to avoid scandals. This exchange emphasized the witness’s dedication to upholding ethical standards.

At this juncture, the lawyer’s frustration escalated, and he yelled at the witness to answer his questions. However, Justice Bolaji, one of the judges presiding over the case, intervened, reminding the lawyer that the witness had already provided a response. The judge’s intervention signaled a need for respectful and fair proceedings.

To further challenge the witness’s impartiality, the lawyer inquired about the witness’s political affiliation, asking if he was a PDP member. In response, the witness asserted his obedience rather than aligning himself with any specific political party, reaffirming his commitment to neutrality.

The courtroom exchange shed light on an important distinction between expired passports and citizenship. While the expiration of a passport may restrict an individual’s ability to travel or obtain certain privileges associated with a valid passport, it does not automatically strip them of their citizenship. This clarification is crucial for Nigerian citizens abroad who may encounter challenges with their passports but still maintain their citizenship rights.

In conclusion, the intense courtroom exchange involving Wole Olanipekun, SAN, and the witness provided insights into the status of Tinubu’s expired passport and his Guinean citizenship. The witness’s assertion that Tinubu remained a citizen of Guinea despite the expiration of his passport’s data page underscored the separation between passport validity and citizenship. This distinction has significant implications for Nigerian citizens facing similar circumstances and highlights the need for a nuanced understanding of citizenship rights and passport expiration.

Christian Maximilian, a Software Engineer with an unwavering love for writing, has transformed his passion into a full-time profession as a Political Analyst. Combining technical expertise with creative flair, he crafts compelling stories that bridge the worlds of politics and literature.

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African Union Takes Action: Republic of Niger Suspended Amidst Political Unrest

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In a decisive move that reverberated across the continent, the African Union (AU) announced the suspension of the Republic of Niger from its membership ranks.

This momentous decision was unveiled during the African Union’s Peace and Security Council meeting held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia on Tuesday, August 22.

African Union:Picture Source- Pinterest

The suspension stems from the recent political turmoil that engulfed the nation, with the African Union pointing to the coup orchestrated by Gen Abdourahamane Tchiani on Wednesday, July 26. As part of a series of sanctions imposed on the francophone West African country, the Republic of Niger faced the repercussions of its internal upheaval.

The African Union’s stance was uncompromising, as it made it clear that Western nations seeking to meddle in African affairs should refrain from interfering. This firm message was directed from the heart of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, where the AU’s call for autonomy echoed loudly.

The events leading up to Niger’s suspension unfolded against a backdrop of political uncertainty and unrest. The coup in Niger, orchestrated by Gen Abdourahamane Tchiani, prompted the Afican Union to take action. Their decision to suspend Niger was not taken lightly and was ratified during the Peace and Security Council meeting in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia on August 22.

The aftermath of the military takeover in left President Mohamed Bazoum in captivity, held under the close watch of the juntas in Niger. Despite international pressure, the release of the president and his family remains elusive. This tense situation compelled the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to intervene, imposing sanctions on Niger and establishing a deadline for the initiation of military intervention by the sub-regional body’s standby forces.

The suspension of the Republic of Niger from the African Union serves as a stark reminder of the continent’s commitment to upholding stability and safeguarding democratic governance. The swift response underscores the African Union’s dedication to maintaining order and security within its member states, sending a resounding message to the global community about the importance of respecting Africa’s sovereignty.

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Peter Obi: “I Campaigned For Presidency Because I Can Say It Any Day, I Will Solve The Problem Of Nigeria”

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In a recent tweet that has caught the attention of many, @MissPearls shares an inspiring declaration made by former Anambra state governor and Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi. According to @MissPearls, Peter Obi proclaimed, “I campaigned for Presidency because I can say it any day, I Will SOLVE THE PROBLEM OF NIGERIA. All these confusion everywhere can BE SOLVED, and I am PREPARED for it”

Peter Obi: I Campaigned For Presidency Because I Can Say It Any Day, I Will Solve The Problem Of Nigeria.

Peter Obi’s bid for the presidency in the recent elections stirred considerable excitement and garnered support from diverse quarters, particularly the youth demographic. The former governor is known for his progressive ideas and pragmatic approach to governance, which resonated with many Nigerians who sought change and effective solutions to the country’s myriad challenges.

Despite his extensive support and well-articulated vision, Peter Obi’s presidential ambitions faced formidable opponents in the election. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) released results that placed him behind the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who emerged as the winner, and Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who came second. However, these results were met with skepticism due to apparent electoral irregularities that marred the integrity of the process.

In response to the controversial election outcome, both Peter Obi and Atiku Abubakar filed legal challenges against the INEC’s declaration. This move underscores their commitment to upholding the democratic process and ensuring that the voice of the electorate is accurately reflected. As the election Tribunal Judges prepare to deliver their verdict, Nigeria watches with bated breath, eager to witness justice being served.

Meanwhile, the administration of Mr. Bola Ahmed Tinubu has taken significant policy actions since assuming office. The removal of fuel subsidies and the decision to float the Naira have triggered mixed reactions across the nation. While these measures may be intended to foster economic stability and growth, the immediate consequences have been felt by everyday Nigerians. The cost of living has surged, and the socio-economic effects on the rich and the poor have become more pronounced.

As the Nigerian population navigates these shifts, the aftermath of the election and the ensuing governance strategies offer a critical juncture for evaluating the nation’s trajectory. The voices of discontent, expressed by citizens facing the brunt of these policies, highlight the necessity for leaders to prioritize the well-being of the populace while pursuing economic advancements. It is essential for the government to strike a balance between fiscal prudence and safeguarding the interests of the vulnerable segments of society.

The policy changes implemented by Bola Tinubu have shed light on the delicate balance between progress and the welfare of the people. As the nation waits for the tribunal’s judgment and the dust settles on the recent election, Nigeria stands at a crossroads, with the potential to reshape its future trajectory and address the systemic challenges that have held it back for far too long.

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Youths in Kano Defy Police Ban to Protest Alleged Tribunal Bribery

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Hundreds of determined youths in Kano took to the streets, defying a police ban, to protest what they perceive as attempts to manipulate the state election petition tribunal. This incident unfolded against the backdrop of a ban on protests by the Commissioner of Police, Usuani Gumel, following revelations of alleged plots to obstruct justice through financial inducement in legal proceedings.

Youths in kano

The rally, which unfolded outside the state government house, saw impassioned youths brandishing placards with messages that underscored their commitment to justice and the integrity of the electoral process. Their actions were sparked by concerns over an alleged plan to bribe the state election petition tribunal, casting a shadow over the fairness of the process.

The ban on protests was issued in response to recent revelations made by Justice Flora Azinge, who unveiled purported schemes by lawyers to disrupt the course of justice through financial incentives. The Commissioner of Police cited “confirmatory intelligence products” as the basis for this decision, leaving a contentious atmosphere surrounding the freedom of assembly and the right to peaceful protest.

This ban, however, failed to deter the resolute youths who carried a variety of placards conveying their strong stance against corruption, manipulation, and injustice. The slogans they chanted resonated with their determination to safeguard the sanctity of the electoral process and uphold transparency in governance.

Among the messages displayed, one placard caught the eye with its direct callout: “Gandollar, stop spoiling the name of Tinubu.” This highlights the allegation that financial impropriety is tainting the reputation of key political figures.

In a video circulated online, the enthusiastic protesters chanted slogans that echoed their deep-seated concerns. Chants of “No to corruption,” “No to injustice,” and “No to manipulation” reverberated through the crowd, embodying the youth’s unwavering commitment to fair and accountable governance.

Addressing the gathering, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf praised the peaceful conduct of the protesters and assured them that their concerns would be relayed to President Bola Tinubu. This gesture recognizes the role of the youth in shaping political discourse and underscores the importance of their voices in the pursuit of a just society.

In conclusion, the youths in Kano have seized the moment to voice their concerns and demands for an unbiased electoral process. Their defiance of the police ban serves as a reminder that public sentiment cannot be easily suppressed. As this incident unfolds, it raises important questions about the delicate balance between freedom of assembly, legitimate protest, and maintaining public order. It also underscores the critical role of the youth in shaping the political landscape and demanding accountability from their leaders.

For the latest news updates, follow us on Twitter @ReporterNews. Stay informed and engaged with evolving stories from all around the world.

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