NIGERIA'S CORRECTIONAL CENTRES | REFORM MUST BE URGENT, NOT INCREMENTAL

 

Nigeria’s Century-Old Prisons Are a National Shame—Reform Must Be Urgent, Not Incremental

-EDITORIAL-

When Nigeria’s Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, appeared on Channels Television’s Politics Today, his revelations were both sobering and infuriating. That many of Nigeria’s 246 correctional centres are over a century old is not just a historical footnote, it’s a national disgrace. These facilities, relics of colonial architecture and punitive philosophy, continue to house thousands of Nigerians in conditions that defy modern standards of dignity, safety, and rehabilitation.

This is not merely a matter of crumbling walls and outdated plumbing. It is a reflection of how far behind our justice system has fallen, and how urgently it needs to evolve.

Shouldn't Nigeria Rethink Its Place Now As the World Repositions?

As the World Repositions, Nigeria Must Rethink Its Place

-EDITORIAL-

In the early hours of Wednesday, the global political landscape shifted in ways that demand Nigeria’s attention, not just as a regional power, but as a nation with growing diplomatic ambition. From Berlin to Alaska, decisions were made that will echo across continents, and if Nigeria listens closely, it may find both warning signs and opportunities.

PDP sets up 44-member zoning committee ahead of November Convention

PDP Sets Stage for 2027: Zoning Committee Inaugurated Ahead of National Convention

In a strategic move aimed at reshaping its leadership and electoral fortunes, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has inaugurated a 44-member zoning committee ahead of its national convention scheduled for November 15–16, 2025. The convention will elect new members to the National Working Committee (NWC), a critical organ in steering the party’s direction.

Purpose and Political Significance

The zoning committee is tasked with recommending how key leadership positions within the NWC should be distributed across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. This zoning tradition has long been a balancing act for the PDP, often signaling where the presidential ticket might be headed. Historically, if the chairmanship is zoned to the North, the presidential candidate emerges from the South, and vice versa.

Nigeria Wakes to a Storm of Social Media Buzz

Nigeria Wakes to a Storm of Stories: Social Media Buzz from the Early Hours of Yesterday

As dawn broke across Nigeria yesterday, the digital pulse of the nation was already racing. From airport arrests to youth empowerment campaigns, social media platforms, especially X (formerly Twitter), were ablaze with commentary, hashtags, and viral moments that captured the country’s attention.

Airport Drama and Celebrity Headlines

One of the most talked-about stories came from Lagos’ Murtala Muhammed International Airport, where a traveller was reportedly arrested for failing to declare $59,000 in cash. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) quickly became a trending topic, with Nigerians debating the legality, ethics, and implications of the arrest.

Key Economic Shifts Shaping August 2025

Nigeria’s Business Pulse: Key Economic Shifts Shaping August 2025

As Nigeria navigates a complex economic landscape, four major developments dominated the business headlines on August 14, 2025. From surging energy costs to sweeping tax reforms, these stories reveal the structural shifts underway in Africa’s largest economy.

Cooking Gas Prices Surge Amid Inflation and Supply Gaps

Nigerians are grappling with a sharp rise in cooking gas prices, marking the fifth consecutive monthly increase. The average cost of refilling a 12.5kg cylinder soared to ₦21,010.56, while the 5kg refill hit ₦8,323.95. Delta and Rivers states recorded the highest prices, exceeding ₦22,000, while Yobe and Niger offered the lowest at around ₦18,500.

FEEL MY PULSE | AT THIS TIME

Entertainment Pulse: August 2025 Edition

As the heat of August settles over Nigeria and the global stage, the entertainment world is bursting with energy, creativity, and cultural celebration. From Lagos to Budapest, this month promises unforgettable experiences for music lovers, fashionistas, film buffs, and festival-goers alike.

Nigeria’s Cultural Calendar: Bold, Vibrant, Unmissable

Beats in the Park – Lagos

Date: August 16 Venue: Muri Okunola Park, Victoria Island Why It Matters: This open-air festival is a celebration of Afrobeats, street fashion, and urban youth culture. Expect performances from top-tier artists like Asake, Ayra Starr, and Fireboy DML, alongside food trucks, fashion pop-ups, and dance battles. It’s more than a concert,  it’s a lifestyle showcase.

Can the ADC Coalition and Peter Obi’s Reform Vision Reshape 2027?

Nigeria at a Crossroads: Can the ADC Coalition and Peter Obi’s Reform Vision Reshape 2027?

-SPECIAL REPORT-

By Solomon Etuk

As Nigeria’s political terrain begins to shift ahead of the 2027 general elections, two developments have captured national attention: the dramatic defection of high-profile politicians to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), and Peter Obi’s audacious promise to fix Nigeria’s economy within two years. Together, they represent a growing appetite for change, and a test of whether Nigeria’s opposition can truly unify.

A Coalition of Titans: ADC’s New Political Force

In what some are calling a “political earthquake,” former ministers, governors, and presidential contenders have aligned under the ADC banner. Among them are Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Rotimi Amaechi, Rauf Aregbesola, David Mark, and Nasir El-Rufai, figures who once stood on opposite sides of Nigeria’s political divide.

Keyamo orders release of Ibom air passenger from Kirikiri and life ban rescinded; orders charges against KWAM1 be dropped and he be made an ambassador

Justice or Privilege? Nigeria’s Aviation Shake-Up Sparks National Debate

In a country where justice often bends to influence, two recent aviation incidents have reignited public debate over fairness, accountability, and the power of celebrity. Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has made headlines by intervening in two high-profile cases, one involving a jailed passenger and the other a music legend, prompting both praise and outrage.

The Minister’s Decisions: Compassion or Controversy?

Comfort Emmanson’s Release

• Emmanson was arrested after an unruly incident aboard an Ibom Air flight on August 10, 2025.
• Keyamo reportedly negotiated with Ibom Air to withdraw its complaint, citing her “great remorse” during police questioning.
• The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) reportedly agreed to lift her lifetime flight ban.
• Her release from Kirikiri Prison is expected within the week.

Legal and Public Backlash Against Ibom Air’s Controversial Ban

Comfort Emmanson

Justice for Comfort Emmanson: Legal and Public Backlash Against Ibom Air’s Controversial Ban

The recent incident involving Comfort Emmanson, a passenger on an Ibom Air flight from Uyo to Lagos, has sparked widespread outrage and legal scrutiny across Nigeria. What began as a routine flight quickly escalated into a national controversy, raising serious questions about passenger rights, corporate accountability, and the rule of law.

Abia demolishes unapproved structures in Umuahia market

Abia State Governor, His Excellency Alex Otti

Abia State Reclaims Umuahia Market for Modern Transportation Hub

In a bold move to reshape the urban landscape of Umuahia, the Abia State Government has commenced the demolition of unauthorized structures at the former Umuahia market, popularly known as Ogwumabiri. The action, led by the Umuahia Capital Development Authority (UCDA), marks a significant step toward transforming the city into a modern, world-class capital.

Six persons die after fire raze building in US

Tragedy in Maryland: Six Dead in Devastating Building Fire

Charles County, Maryland, A catastrophic fire tore through a residential building in Maryland on Sunday morning, claiming the lives of six individuals and leaving dozens injured. The blaze, which erupted around 8:40 a.m., has been described as the deadliest fire in the community in over a decade, according to local authorities.

Lives Lost

At press time, among the victims were four teenagers and two adults, whose lives were tragically cut short despite intense rescue efforts. Eyewitnesses recounted the fire’s rapid spread, which overwhelmed the building and left occupants trapped. The victims were reportedly burnt beyond help, underscoring the ferocity of the flames.

Trump demands homeless people 'immediately' move out of Washington DC

A tent encampment being removed from downtown Washington DC in 2023  (C) Getty Images

Tackling Homelessness: Causes, Challenges, and Promising Solutions

Background Story

Former President Donald Trump has reportedly called for the immediate removal of homeless individuals from Washington, D.C. This kind of statement typically reflects concerns about urban cleanliness, public safety, or political optics, especially in high-profile cities like the U.S. capital.

Expanded Discussion: Homelessness and Political Rhetoric

Here’s a look into the broader issues this touches on:

Homelessness in Major Cities

• Washington, D.C., like many urban centers, faces persistent challenges with homelessness due to high housing costs, limited shelter capacity, and systemic inequality.
• Sweeps or forced removals often displace individuals without offering long-term solutions.

Ibom Air, others ban ‘unruly passenger’ for life after airport row

Comfort Emmanson, Ibom Air Intended Passenger

Comfort Emmanson: The Airport Assault That Shook Nigeria’s Aviation Sector

In a dramatic turn of events that has gripped the nation, Comfort Emmanson, a passenger aboard an Ibom Air flight from Uyo to Lagos, has been banned for life from flying with the airline after a violent outburst that escalated into physical assault against crew members. The incident, captured in viral videos, has sparked widespread debate about passenger conduct, aviation safety, and justice in Nigeria.

What Happened Onboard

According to Ibom Air’s official statement, the altercation began when Emmanson refused to switch off her mobile phone before takeoff, defying standard aviation safety procedures. After a fellow passenger intervened and turned off the phone, Emmanson launched into a verbal tirade. The situation was temporarily calmed, and the flight proceeded as scheduled.