Politics
FACT CHECK: Did Wole Olanipekun, APC’s Lead Counsel Say One’s Citizenship Expires Once Their Passport Expires?
Wole Olanipekun – “Once your passport expires, your citizenship has expired“

In the realm of responsible journalism, fact-checking plays a crucial role in establishing credibility and combating the spread of misinformation. However, even the most diligent fact-checking teams may encounter delays when confronted with seemingly false claims. Such was the case when our team at Reportera.ng found themselves in a peculiar predicament, challenged by an unexpected quest to substantiate a claim that initially appeared to be an undeniable fallacy.

In recent times, certain members within the All Progressives Congress (APC) have taken on the task of supporting this particular assertion, surprising many observers. This surprising turn of events calls for a closer examination of the situation, shedding light on the complex dynamics at play and the potential implications that may arise from such an endeavor.
Wole Olanipekun SAN, the Lead Counsel to the APC, has a distinguished legal career spanning over five decades. With 32 years as a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), previous roles as the chairman of the NBA, and president of life benchers, it is rather perplexing that he would make an astonishingly absurd claim—one that even a junior associate in his firm would likely never commit.
To understand the context of the claim, let’s revisit a court proceeding on the 24th of June, 2023, during the Presidential Election Petition Tribunal. Wole Olanipekun SAN was cross-examining a witness of the PDP and Presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar. As part of the evidence presented, Tinubu’s Guinean passport was brought forward, leading to an argument that running for public office, particularly the presidency, would be unconstitutional due to Tinubu’s dual citizenship. In response, Wole Olanipekun SAN made the statement that requires a careful analysis of Nigeria’s constitution regarding dual citizenship and running for public office.

Chapter VI and section 137, 1(a) of the Nigerian Constitution address the issue of citizenship and eligibility to run for public office. It states:
(1) A person shall not be qualified for election to the office of President if – (a) subject to the provisions of section 28 of this Constitution, he has voluntarily acquired the citizenship of a country other than Nigeria or, except in such cases as may be prescribed by the National Assembly, he has made a declaration of allegiance to such other country; or…
According to the Nigerian Constitution, dual citizenship is allowed. However, the constitution also specifies that certain public offices are exclusively open to Nigerian citizens by birth. This means that a person who is a dual citizen by birth can run for any public office, while a person who acquired dual citizenship through naturalization or registration can only run for certain offices.
The offices that are exclusively open to Nigerian citizens by birth include the President, Vice President, Governor, Deputy Governor, Senator, Member of the House of Representatives, Member of the State House of Assembly, Chairman of a Local Government Area, and Councillor in a Local Government Area.
If a person who is a dual citizen by naturalization or registration wishes to run for one of the offices mentioned above, they must renounce their citizenship of the other country before they can be elected.
Exceptions to the Rule: There are a few exceptions to this rule. For instance, a person who is a dual citizen by naturalization or registration can run for President if they were born in Nigeria and both of their parents were Nigerian citizens at the time of their birth.
Expiration of International Passports: It’s important to clarify that the expiration of one’s international passport does not mean they are no longer citizens of the country. While a passport serves as evidence of citizenship and functions as a travel document, there is no constitutional law stating that the expiration of one’s passport automatically revokes their citizenship.
VERDICT: FALSE
After conducting thorough research and examining verifiable sources such as the Nigerian constitution, it has become evident that the statement made by Wole Olanipekun SAN is false. The Nigerian constitution does not support or mention any information that aligns with the claim made.
For the latest news and articles, visit reportera.ng. Don’t forget to follow us on Twitter: @reportera.ng
Politics
African Union Takes Action: Republic of Niger Suspended Amidst Political Unrest
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.
Politics
Peter Obi: “I Campaigned For Presidency Because I Can Say It Any Day, I Will Solve The Problem Of Nigeria”
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’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.
Fore more updates, follow us on Twitter @ReporteraNews.
Politics
Youths in Kano Defy Police Ban to Protest Alleged Tribunal Bribery
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.

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.
- Celebrities3 months ago
Who is Olivia Casta-the sensational model and social media influencer?
- News4 months ago
BIG STORY: Investigations reveal Tinubu came 3rd, Peter Obi won presidential election
- Celebrities2 months ago
What You Did not know About Jessica Ditzel: unveiling Joe Rogan’s Life With Wife Jessica Ditzel.
- News4 months ago
BIG STORY: Peter Obi’s Labour Party won 16 states, not 12 — IREV Results Show
- Entertainment2 months ago
A timeline of Shane Gillis Girlfriends: who is he dating in 2023?
- Entertainment2 months ago
Timeline of Central Cee’s Relationship with Girlfriend, TikToker Madeline Argy
- Celebrities3 months ago
Nollywood Actor Bolanle Ninalowo Takes Center Stage in Action-Packed “Extraction 2”
- Celebrities2 months ago
Bronwin Aurora and All You Need to Know About Her in 2023: age, height, family, Boyfriend, Networth.