Ideas leave a trail.

Perilous Era of Political Thuggery Nigeria is descending into a perilous era of political thuggery under the current administration, where violence and intimidation are increasingly weaponized to suppress democracy and stifle political participation. The recent attack on H.E. Rotimi Amaechi, a prominent opposition figure, and the brutal assault on his supporters during a political event starkly illustrate the deteriorating state of our democracy. The attack on Amaechi's convoy in Rivers State, the orchestrated burning of African Democratic Congress (ADC) offices, and the rampant disruption of political meetings nationwide are alarming developments that cannot be ignored. The failure to arrest and prosecute those responsible for these heinous acts signals a grave danger—the steady erosion of the very foundation of democracy and the entrenchment of lawlessness by those entrusted to enforce the law. If we do not confront this troubling trend with unwavering resolve, citizens will feel compelled to take matters into their own hands simply to exercise their democratic rights. Nigeria cannot claim to be a democracy while political actors are endangered simply for expressing themselves, organizing, or attending meetings. A nation where thugs dictate who can gather, speak, or campaign is not practicing democracy; it is careening toward a brutal regime of political thuggery, aided and abetted by those in power. We must unequivocally reject this descent into a democracy of thuggery. Nigerians deserve a political environment organized through competency, capacity, compassion,and commitment to the good of society, not one controlled by incompetence and thuggery. Democracy must be defined by the rule of law, accountability, competence, and the unrestricted participation of citizens in shaping their nation's future through political actions. A New Nigeria is not just POssible; it is imperative, urgent, and achievable. -PO

Time to End the Persecution of Political Opponents The current administration must put an end to the blatant persecution of political opponents disguised as criminal prosecution. The integrity of the rule of law in Nigeria is non-negotiable; its degradation undermines our economic development and threatens national stability. The recent arrests and continued detention of key leaders from the African Democracy Congress (ADC), namely Mr. Abubakar Malami, former Attorney General of the Federation, and Malam Nasir El-Rufai, former Governor of Kaduna State is worrisome. The timing of their arrests—coinciding with their commitment to ensure the current administration is voted out in 2027—raises serious questions. The methods used in their apprehension contradict the principles of rule of law. Prosecutorial decisions must be grounded in concrete evidence and probable cause, transparently presented without ulterior motives. The undue denial of bail or unjustly stringent conditions imposed on bail leave little doubt that the government is wielding criminal prosecution as a weapon against its political opponents. The situation surrounding Malam El-Rufai is particularly concerning; his repeated transfers between the EFCC, ICPC, and DSS suggest a desperate search for any charge that might stick, straying dangerously close to a fishing expedition rather than a credible investigation. I firmly believe that Nigeria requires a civil and criminal justice system that instills confidence in every citizen—that no one should fear persecution for their political beliefs or actions disapproved by those in power. The criminal trial process must adhere strictly to legal standards. As we approach a critical election period, the government must cease its efforts to undermine political opponents under the pretense of battling corruption, and wrong doing. I wholeheartedly support the fight against corruption, and wrong doing, but it must be conducted with integrity and transparency, starting with those currently in power rather than targeting opponents. A credible anti-corruption and anti wrong doing campaign cannot afford to be selective. A new Nigeria is POssible. -PO

Politics in front as insecurity spreads. Our nation is clearly under siege, and the scale of insecurity is becoming unbearable spreading widely all over the country. This week alone in Borno State’s Ngoshe community, terrorists overpowered soldiers, killing them and several citizens, while abducting more than 100 women and children yet our leaders are silent. The sacrifice of our brave and dedicated soldiers is passed in silence. I look forward to the day when our fallen soldiers are given the dignified burials they deserve, with their bodies received and honoured by the nation’s leaders and political authorities. From Nasarawa, Kogi and Benue, residents are screaming that terrorists now flock to their farms and forests, disrupting economic activities forcing entire villages to flee in fear. In Nasarawa’s Kadarko area alone, 14,318 civilians are now registered as internally displaced persons (IDPs). In Oyo State, travellers were abducted in the dead of night along the Kishi‑Igbeti road, their whereabouts still unknown. In Ondo State, criminals shot at, abducted and wounded innocent citizens. And in Kebbi State, terrorists are on a rampage, killing officers and citizens, making it the third deadly attack this month. The wave of terror has now brazenly crept into our nation’s capital. The attack in Kubwa, Abuja, just this week, about 19 citizens were abducted from their homes, including women and children. This is yet another grim reminder that insecurity is no longer distant but now a norm. These are national tragedies happening simultaneously all over our country, claiming the lives of civilians and security operatives alike. The primary responsibility of any government is to secure the lives and property of its citizens. Yet, the response from the government in power to all the incidents has been dead SILENCE, as if Nigerian lives no longer matter. The ruling class are instead devastatingly more preoccupied with how to snatch, grab, and run away with the next election. These are not just news items, Nigerians deserve commitment and leadership that puts their safety and welfare first. It is time to restore security, dignity, and hope to every corner of this nation. A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO

Revalidation of My ADC Membership On the 31st of December, leading figures from across Igboland gathered in Enugu in a historic meeting of the “who is who” in the region. The purpose was clear: to call on Igbo leaders, intellectuals, and stakeholders to join the ADC as the most credible platform for political renewal and responsible governance. At the meeting in Enugu, prominent leaders from across the region were in attendance. From Enugu came Chief Okwesilieze Nwodo and Hon. Gilbert Nnaji, among others. From Imo were Hon. Emeka Ihedioha and Chief Achike Udenwa, among others. From Abia were Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe and Onyema Ugochukwu. At the same time, while Anambra was represented by the likes of Senators Ben Ndi Obi, Victor Umeh, and Tony Nwoye, among others, including numerous members of the National Assembly and the State Houses of Assembly. Their presence underscored a shared conviction that the South-East must work together with a united voice and common purpose. Yesterday, the 8th of March, we once again gathered in Awka to formally flag off the membership validation and registration exercise. The event also attracted a wide spectrum of leaders and stakeholders, including 2 Senators, 5 members of the National Assembly, 6 members of the State Houses of Assembly, and a host of dignitaries. Speaking during the event, I urged all opposition parties to come together in the determination to confront and end bad governance. The forthcoming election in 2027 will not merely be a contest between political parties; it will be a defining choice between the Nigerian people and bad governance. Following the flag-off ceremony in Awka, we moved to Agulu, where I personally completed my membership validation and encouraged others to follow suit. Our message is simple, meaningful change begins with participation. The journey toward a New Nigeria that is POssible continues. -PO

From Ibadan to Achina: Empowering Minds, Building Nations A few weeks ago, I visited Dominican University in Ibadan, Oyo State, where I donated ₦30 million to support their educational development. Yesterday, March 6th, I was at Peter University in Achina/Onneh, continuing my commitment to support institutions dedicated to shaping the minds and futures of our young people. On that occasion, I also donated another ₦30 million to Peter University to aid its growth and academic development. For me, education is one of the most enduring investments that any society can make. It not only opens doors for individuals but also strengthens communities and prepares nations for the challenges of tomorrow. Whenever the opportunity presents itself, I consider it a privilege to contribute, even in a modest way, to institutions devoted to learning, character formation, and service to humanity. My visit was not merely ceremonial; it was an affirmation of my belief that universities should remain centers where young men and women are inspired to dream beyond their immediate circumstances and see themselves as citizens of a wider world. A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO

It is with a heavy heart that I have learned of yet another horrific attack yesterday by terrorists on the community of Ngoshe in Borno State, which targeted not only a military base but also an internally displaced persons (IDP) camp, and sadly claimed the lives of innocent civilians and soldiers, many of whom are still missing. I watched several videos of this tragedy with deep horror. Once again we are confronted with the painful reality of the daily suffering that far too many Nigerians are forced to endure. This is unacceptable. How long will Nigerians continue to bear the consequences of poor leadership and mismanagement? How many more lives must be lost before decisive action is taken to secure our communities, protect the vulnerable, and dismantle the structures of these insurgents? While Nigerians are slaughtered daily by terrorists, what is more troubling is that amid these daily killings, our political leaders are preoccupied with selfish schemings on how to steal, grab and run away with the next election cycle, and keep us in insecurity, poverty and underdevelopment. To the families who have lost loved ones, to the children now displaced, and to the communities living in fear, I stand with you in grief and in resolve. Your pain is Nigeria’s pain. Your safety and dignity must be the priority of any government that claims to serve the people. Nigeria deserves a leadership that values human life above all else. Our nation is stronger than the terror that threatens it. But we cannot remain silent, and we cannot accept inaction. We must act now, for today’s victims, for tomorrow’s children, and for the Nigeria we all deserve. A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO

Celebrating a Statesman Today, 5 March 2026, I joined other Nigerians in Abeokuta, Ogun State to celebrate the birthday of His Excellency, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, two-time former President of Nigeria. Chief Obasanjo remains a towering statesman, an exceptional leader of our time whose voice continues to resonate in the affairs of our nation. I admire his steadfastness, courage, and deep sense of justice and patriotism. Over the years, he has stood as a strong advocate for national unity and a fearless critic of bad governance, constantly reminding leaders that Nigeria must rise above divisions and work together for the common good. His moral sense of right and wrong has made him the conscience of the nation. May God continue to bless him with good health, wisdom, and many more years of service to Nigeria and humanity. -PO

Politics of Zero Humanity It is profoundly disturbing that while we, the politicians, continue to obsess over the 2027 elections—spending our energy scheming about how to capture, grab, and run the next election—the first two months of 2026 have reportedly seen the killing of over 1,000 Nigerians and the abduction of several thousand others. This is the painful reality confronting our nation. From Zamfara State to Kwara, Ondo, Kebbi, Edo, Benue, Adamawa, Plateau, and many other states, families have buried loved ones, and communities have been emptied by gunshots and fear. In over 25 states across all geopolitical zones this year alone, there have been major violent attacks on innocent citizens, kidnappings by armed bandits, mass shootings, village invasions, and brazen assaults on worshippers and travellers. The scale of bloodshed and the number of deaths in just two months in Nigeria are even worse than what we see in countries officially at war. Yet the urgency with which we discuss these tragedies does not match the urgency of our discussions surrounding zoning formulas, party structures, and campaign strategies. This is the tragedy of our politics. We debate power sharing while citizens are sharing funeral programs. I watched in tears yesterday as families in the Doruwa Babuje community in Plateau State buried their dead after attacks by armed terrorists, but our media and leaders were focused on discussions about party issues and the 2027 elections, when we aren't even sure we will be alive to see it, given all the deaths happening in our country today. We strategise about 2027 while Nigerians struggle to survive 2026. This is inhumane. We must elevate human life to a sacred status in our national priorities. Leadership is not about winning elections; it is about saving lives. We can, and we must, aspire to a Nigeria devoid of bloodshed—a Nigeria where governance is measured not by political dominance but by the safety and dignity of its people. History will not remember how many strategies we perfected for 2027; it will remember whether we acted when Nigerians were dying. We must choose Nigerian lives over politics. We must put Nigerians first. A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO

Yesterday, after attending the funeral of the late Senator Peter Nwaoboshi in Ibusa, Delta State, I travelled to Port Harcourt, Rivers State, to celebrate the 70th birthday of my respected senior, Mr. Tony Eze. Tony was my senior at Christ the King College, Onitsha. Even at that young age, he stood out for his strong sense of responsibility, and constant encouragement to us to take our studies seriously. Those enduring qualities of care, integrity, and commitment to the common good have defined his life’s journey. I wish him continued good health, strength, and many more years of impactful service to humanity. With people like him, a new Nigeria is POssible. -PO

Yesterday, Friday, 27 February, I joined other notable Nigerians, including Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State and his Deputy, Sir John Onyeme, as well as former Governors James Ibori and Ifeanyi Okowa. Serving and former members of the National and State Assemblies, and other dignitaries, to attend the funeral Mass of the late distinguished Senator Peter Nwaoboshi, at St. Augustine Catholic Church, Ibusa. Delta State. We paid our last respects to the distinguished Senator, who served as a senator representing Delta North. May God Almighty who called him home grant him eternal rest in His kingdom and grant his family and all who mourn him the fortitude to bear his irreplaceable loss. -PO

My visit to Benin, Edo State. On Tuesday, 24 February, in continuation of my commitment to supporting critical sectors of development - healthcare, education, and poverty reduction - I visited Benin City. While there, I stopped at the Philomena School of Nursing Sciences, one of the largest nursing institutions in the region. This was not my first visit. Over the years, I have made it a duty to encourage both staff and students of schools across the country as they pursue excellence in healthcare training. In further demonstration of this commitment to Philomena School of Nursing Sciences, and to support the school’s facilities as I have done previously, I donated the sum of fifteen million (=N=15M) naira. I call on government at all levels, as well as wealthy Nigerians, to channel greater attention and resources toward the critical pillars of development - security, healthcare, education and poverty reduction. These are the foundations upon which a just and prosperous society must stand. A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO

Thank You, Nigerians I am profoundly grateful to Nigerians from around the world for your prayers, calls, and solidarity following the incident at the ADC office in Benin yesterday. I especially appreciate your support during this difficult time for the family of the distinguished elder and former Governor of Edo State, Chief John Oyegun, who has served Nigeria honourably in various capacities, as well as for another former Governor, Professor Oserheimen Osunbor. Your support has strengthened my faith in our shared humanity and our collective hope for a better Nigeria. My deep gratitude is reflected in my renewed commitment to serve and build our nation. Experiences of lawlessness are not new to me. Years ago, the violence and insecurity in Anambra shaped my determination to seek the governorship of the state, convinced that leadership must restore order, security, and public trust. Today, the growing lawlessness across our country calls upon all men and women of goodwill to step forward—not in fear but with a sense of responsibility. As Plato reminded us, the price good people pay for refusing to participate in government is to live under the rule of bad people. This moment urges Nigerians to be even more resolute in electing leaders defined by competence, commitment, character, and compassion—leaders who prioritise the nation above self and service above power. Together, with courage and unity, we can build the peaceful, secure, and prosperous Nigeria our people deserve. A new Nigeria is POssible. -PO

Borrowing Without Growth: Nigeria’s Debt Dilemma Recent World Bank reports indicate that Nigeria is now its number 3  debtor, with obligations estimated at roughly $18.7 billion. Bangladesh is the number one with $23 billion. I continue to emphasise that there's nothing inherently wrong with borrowing. Nations borrow to improve productivity and stimulate growth. Debt becomes a problem only when it finances consumption, inefficiency, or corruption rather than investment as is our own case.  To understand the difference, it is useful to compare outcomes. Around 2015, Bangladesh’s nominal GDP stood at roughly $195 billion, with per-capita income slightly above $1,235. By 2024–2025, its economy had expanded to roughly $460–500 billion, and per-capita income had risen to about $2,700. In a decade, Bangladesh more than doubled the size of its economy, lifted incomes, and strengthened its export base - evidence that borrowed resources were largely channelled into productive sectors such as manufacturing, textiles, energy, and human capital. Nigeria’s trajectory over the same period tells a different story. In 2015, Nigeria’s GDP was about $490 billion, with per-capita income around $2,600–2,700. Today, due to weak productivity growth, currency instability, structural inefficiencies, and monumental corruption, Nigeria’s GDP is below about $250 billion, with a per-capita income of  $850-1000. Instead of expanding as is the case with Bangladesh, the economy has effectively contracted.  The contrast is instructive. One country borrowed and expanded production, exports, and incomes. The other borrowed but saw declining economic strength and living standards. This suggests that the real issue is not the size of borrowing, but the use of borrowed funds. Debt tied to infrastructure, industry, and human development fuels growth. Debt tied to consumption, leakages, and corruption deepens stagnation. A new Nigeria where loans, if taken, will translate into productivity instead of consumption is very much POssible. -PO

Unlocking Nigeria’s Agricultural Potential: Lessons from Mai Shayi Farms I have continued to reiterate that Nigeria can conquer food insecurity and even go further to earn as much—if not more—from agriculture than from oil. Our country has all that can make that happen, the land, the climate, and the human capacity to feed itself and become a major agricultural exporter. What has been lacking is not potential, but properly formulated policies and disciplined implementation. After visiting the Songhai Farms in Cotonou and seeing firsthand what deliberate planning and integrated farming can achieve, I supported the adaptation of that model at Masdevan Farm in Urum. Today, the farm is doing remarkably well, not only producing food but also training young farmers and demonstrating how agriculture can become a viable engine of growth. With the right investment and policy consistency, agriculture can stimulate industries, create jobs, and transform our economy. Nigeria must act with urgency. The Mai Shayi Coffee Farm on the Jos Plateau stands as another powerful reminder of what is possible. Built on a 30-hectare Arabica plantation with integrated processing facilities, it shows how agriculture can move beyond subsistence into value-chain production—creating employment, generating export earnings, reducing poverty, and driving rural development. With the right enabling environment, such models can be replicated across the country. I sincerely commend and thank the initiators of the Mai Shayi project for demonstrating what focused agricultural investment can achieve. A new Nigeria is possible with the right policies—and the will to implement them. -PO

JAMB: Students Must Not Pay for System Failures Last year, concerns were raised about the hardship students faced at various centres across the country, particularly at the Amawbia, Anambra State, office of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, following the proscription of several CBT centres over alleged infractions. The expectation was that corrective measures would follow. Sadly, as I passed there again last Friday, I met the same crowd and confusion. Upon further inquiry, I was informed that similar situations exist in some other states across Nigeria. While authorities may have valid reasons for sanctioning centres, a more balanced and humane approach is possible. Centres under investigation could be allowed to continue offering limited services under strict monitoring to prevent further lapses. If it is difficult to approve new centres quickly, the authorities could still make temporary use of previously approved centres under close supervision to ease the pressure on state offices. With registration ending on the 26th, the consequences are serious. Many candidates travel from distant villages, some even sleeping in Awka to secure access. If nothing urgent is done, some will miss the examination — not for lack of preparation, but because the system failed them. Students cannot be made to suffer the failings of a system to which we have all, in one way or another, contributed. What is required now is not blame, but swift and compassionate intervention to ensure that no young person’s future is jeopardised by avoidable administrative bottlenecks. -PO

A Rare Spiritual Convergence to Cherish and Revere Today, Wednesday, February 18, 2026, marks a moment of extraordinary spiritual convergence in Nigeria — a nation richly blessed by God with abundant resources, yet long hindered by poor leadership. For the first time in many years, the Christian season of Lent and the Muslim holy month of Ramadan begin on the same day. This rare coincidence is far more than a meeting of dates; it is a powerful symbol of shared sacrifice, reflection, and the possibility of national renewal at a time when our collective identity has been strained by ineffective governance. It is striking that both sacred seasons are marked by fasting, prayer, and thanksgiving. We may therefore see this convergence as what might fittingly be called a “Double Fast” — a divine invitation to transcend our differences and rediscover our shared humanity. As millions of Nigerians — Christians and Muslims alike, from North to South — abstain from food and drink, or devote themselves to forty days of penance and prayer, we are united in a single purpose: to seek the mercy of the Almighty for the healing of our land. This rare coincidence, this shared season of fasting, calls for intensified prayer against the insecurity and economic hardship confronting our country. But prayer alone is not enough; it must be paired with action. It urges us toward charity for the vulnerable, forgiveness of one another, and the self-discipline both faiths commend. Many will rightly see this period as a necessary spiritual reset for our troubled nation. Let this season become a time of deep spiritual engagement. May our hunger remind us of our neighbours’ suffering, and may our prayers stand as a shield over our nation. May our sacrifices be accepted, and may this unique alignment usher in a lasting era of peace and unity across Nigeria. A Holy Lent and Ramadan Kareem to all. With our prayers and shared resolve, a New Nigeria is POssible. -PO

Again we are showing the world, why we are “Now Disgraced Nation” Today, in our beloved country Nigeria, harmless citizens performing their constitutionally guaranteed duties peacefully were tear-gassed simply for asking for what is right: free, fair, and credible elections in a democratic nation. Those who yesterday claimed to be champions of democracy, have today become destroyers of our democracy and the worst enemies of good governance. I urge Nigerians, en masse, to resist these continued evil plans, to stand united against the destruction of our nation and collective future, and to ensure that free and fair elections are firmly established for the sake of our future. We insist that there must be real-time mandatory electronic transmission of polling unit results to ensure transparency and trust in our elections. May God grant us the strength to build a better country, founded on free, fair, and credible elections, justice, and good governance, for the future of our dear nation. A New Nigeria is Possible. -PO

Tale Of Two Nations Continues. India, the world’s largest democracy, with nearly 1 billion registered voters (over 960 million) and more than 60% actively participating in elections remains a model. The country has over 1 million polling stations and thousands of political parties, conducting elections using technology that enables electronic transmission of results within days, and operating a voter-friendly ballot system that displays party symbols and candidate photographs. By contrast, Nigeria, with only one-seventh of India’s population, has about 93 million registered voters, which is less than 10% of India’s voter base. With fewer than 20% of the polling stations and only about 1% of the political parties compared to India, it is deeply troubling that we still struggle to conduct elections, even when we record voter turnout below 20%. Sadly Nigeria still remains unable to consistently deliver free, fair, and credible elections or transmit results promptly, especially when compared to countries with far larger numbers than ours. The difference is leadership. In India, political leaders, legislators and judiciary work tirelessly for the welfare of their people and the future of their children, to do the right thing for the betterment of society, even amidst challenges. In Nigeria, many political figures instead implement policies that impoverish the people and threaten the future of our children. If we are to transform Nigeria, we must demand leaders who put the people first, govern with integrity, and plan for a better tomorrow. A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO

A Tale of Two Nations: India and Nigeria Today, Monday, Indians woke up to a tweet from their Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, thanking citizens for standing at the forefront of artificial intelligence, a technology transforming every sector of their society. He expressed confidence that the outcomes of the AI Summit would help shape a future for their children that is progressive, innovative, and opportunity-driven. Yet in Nigeria, we wake up thinking about how to rig local government elections, how to exploit and impoverish the poor, and how to use the very children we should be nurturing for the future as tools for manipulation and election malpractice. Nigeria is rich in talent, resources, and promise, yet we allow bad governance, greed, and selfishness to define our reality. What we are today is far from what we ought to be: a nation where every child can dream freely, every citizen can thrive, and leadership is measured by service and vision, not manipulation and personal gain. It is time for Nigerians to demand leadership imbued with compassion, commitment, and character — leadership that works not just for a few, but for all, and that transforms promise into progress. -PO

“If I do not provide steady electricity in four years, do not vote for me for 2nd Tenure,” -BAT Thirty-two months after being incharge and instead of living by his powerful words, he now dumps National Grid that has been performing abysmally under his watch. Those were the powerful words then that inspired hope among Nigerians who longed for light in their homes, stability for their businesses, and growth for their nation. Yet, while Nigerians are still grappling with that unfulfilled, categorical electoral promise - and without clear communication on the obstacles, if any, we read of provision in 2025 budget about the ₦10 billion for solar power at Aso Rock, and in 2026 budget another humongous amount for upgrade and maintenance and now we are being scarcitically told that Presidential Villa has planned to be disconnected from the national grid to rely entirely on solar. It is a gross neglect and deeply worrisome when the seat of power abandons the national grid. One would expect government institutions to lead efforts to strengthen and expand the grid so that other establishments, and ultimately, citizens can benefit. If those in authority disconnect themselves from the system, who then will connect the ordinary Nigerian to reliable power? Promoting renewable energy, as solar systems do, is commendable and necessary for the future. However, this situation reflects a deeper concern: governance lacking compassion and commitment to the governed. You cannot tell the people to fast while feasting yourself, securing yourself while Nigerians remain unsecured. Nigerians do not expect 100% fulfilment of promises, but they do expect 100% effort, accompanied by measurable improvements and clear explanations when gaps exist. Leadership must serve the people, not isolate itself from their daily struggles. -PO