Ideas leave a trail.

Today, I joined the Catholic Diocese of Ekwulobia to celebrate the 5th Anniversary of the Creation of the Diocese. I was delighted to celebrate with the Diocese the growth and development they have continued to experience over the years. I particularly appreciated the Spiritual Father of the Diocese, His Eminence Peter Cardinal Okpaleke, for the great work he is doing in the critical areas of education and health - especially for taking the initiative to establish a home that cares for the elderly and less privileged among us. Thereafter, I travelled to Awka, where I also joined the Retired Chief Judge of Anambra State, Hon. Justice Godwin Ude Ononiba, at his book launch. At 92 years old, Chief Ononiba launched his book, “Wisdom on the Bench”, which recounts his enduring legacies on the bench. I always encourage people, especially those who have made positive impacts in society, to document their journeys so that the younger generation can learn how to lead better and more productive lives, with integrity and honesty. Justice Ononiba served as the Chairman of the Transition Committee in Anambra when I was Governor. He is one of those whose words of wisdom and advice have continued to guide me on the right path. He consistently encouraged me to maintain my focus on education, health, and poverty alleviation - areas which, as I often say, remain the three critical pillars of national development. From there, I travelled to Abuja, where I joined the Okupe family, friends, well-wishers, and fellow Nigerians at the Commendation Service for my dear elder brother, the late Chief Doyin Okupe. Doyin believed in and worked for a better Nigeria. May God console his family and indeed all of us who mourn, and grant him eternal rest. Finally, I travelled to Lagos to rejoice with my very dear younger sister, Ndidi Okonkwo Nwuneli, as she marked her 50th birthday. She is one of Nigeria’s great and productive minds and remains committed to building a new and better Nigeria. May God grant her many more healthy, fruitful, and joyful years. -PO

Today, I joined the family of the late Prof. Humphrey Nwosu to receive his body at the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu. Prof. Humphrey Nwosu remains a true hero of democracy, an embodiment and shining example of the kind of leadership we need at the helm of the National Electoral Commission if we truly desire to be a democratic nation. May God grant future generations a country where elections are conducted with the integrity and transparency exemplified by Prof. Nwosu’s life and service. May the Almighty God, who has called him home, grant him eternal rest, and grant his family - and all of us who mourn him - the fortitude to bear this irreplaceable loss. -PO

The parliamentary vote held yesterday clearly demonstrates that democracy, in its true sense, does not exist in Nigeria. Where there is no functional opposition, democracy cannot thrive. Opposition is a critical pillar of any democratic system. It ensures that the right things are done, holds the ruling party accountable, and offers alternative viewpoints. However, an effective opposition can only exist within a system that supports proportional representation—an approach practised in countries like South Africa and Indonesia. In South Africa, for example, the National Assembly has 400 seats. The African National Congress (ANC) received about 40% of the vote and holds approximately 160 seats, while the Democratic Alliance (DA), with about 20% of the vote, holds around 80 seats—alongside several other parties. Those who contested the presidential election remain the recognised leaders of their respective parties. A similar situation exists in Indonesia and other countries where democracy is genuinely practised. As is the norm in such systems, laws prohibit elected officials from switching parties without forfeiting their seats. This helps maintain party discipline and preserves the sanctity of the electoral mandate. These mechanisms contribute to a more balanced, accountable, and credible democratic process. If that were the case in Nigeria, our Senate—comprising 109 seats—would be more reflective of electoral realities, with the APC holding 44 seats, the PDP 33 (under the leadership of Atiku), and the Labour Party 27 (under my leadership). Ideally, the House of Representatives should mirror this balance, with approximately 144 APC members, 108 PDP members, and 90 Labour Party members. But this is far from the case. The absence of laws restricting party defection allows politicians to switch allegiances freely and without consequence. This not only weakens the opposition but also makes a mockery of the electorate’s will and undermines the integrity of our democratic institutions. What we are left with is not a genuine democratic system, but one that is transactional, compromised, and, in many respects, resembles organised criminality. Unless we urgently implement reforms to entrench true democratic principles, enforce party discipline, and ensure fair representation, Nigeria’s democracy will remain fragile and dysfunctional. But we will not surrender to criminality. We shall continue to fight for democracy—genuine democracy. -PO

While still agonizing over the ongoing deterioration of democracy in our nation, especially with the situation in Rivers State, and trying to reach out to our National Assembly members not to support and sustain the unconstitutionality and arbitrariness, I just heard that they have added salt to injury by using a voice vote to pass the illegality . The Constitution is clear that this cannot be done through a voice vote but by calling individuals to answer 'yes' or 'no.' You cannot determine a two-thirds majority by a voice vote. While a two-thirds majority is crucial, it does not justify bypassing proper procedures and undermining the principles of transparency and accountability. The use of a voice vote in such a significant decision not only disregards constitutional requirements but also erodes public trust in the democratic process as well as the transparency and integrity of the National Assembly . Decisions of such magnitude must be made with integrity, following the letter and spirit of the law. It is disheartening that a decision as crucial as approving an emergency proclamation — one that could alter the course of the nation — has been handled with such casual disregard for constitutional standards. The 1999 Constitution of Nigeria (as amended) clearly requires that such a proclamation must be approved by at least two-thirds of all members of each House — the Senate and the House of Representatives. A simple call of "Aye" or "Nay" cannot accurately measure this crucial threshold. When a supermajority is required, it demands a recorded vote — whether by division, roll call, or electronic means. This isn't just a technicality; it's a matter of law and legitimacy. The Senate Standing Orders and House Rules were established to ensure that decisions of this magnitude are made transparently, with accountability. Ignoring these procedures is not just an oversight; it is a betrayal of the democratic process. A voice vote for such a critical matter is not just insufficient; it's a dangerous precedent. If we can bend the rules so easily, what stops us from undermining other pillars of democracy? Today, it's a voice vote on a state of emergency — tomorrow, it could be a voice vote on citizens' fundamental rights. It is painful to think that members of the National Assembly, who swore to uphold the Constitution, could participate in a process that sidesteps the very essence of due process. We must ask ourselves: If the law no longer anchors our decisions, then what does? This is not just a flawed procedure; it is a warning signal. We cannot afford to keep gambling with the soul of our democracy. -PO

My dear brothers and sisters, Members of the Labour Party in the National Assembly, Since your inauguration as Distinguished, and Honorable members of the National Assembly, I have refrained from interfering in your legislative affairs out of respect for your independence and to allow you to focus on alleviating the suffering of the Nigerian people. However, at this critical juncture — following 26 years of a deteriorating democratic process marked by disregard for educational qualifications for electoral positions, massive rigging, and now the unconstitutional removal of elected officeholders — I find it necessary to address you. These unconstitutional actions have far-reaching negative implications for our democracy and the will of the people. I urge you to stand as true defenders of justice. Do not participate in or support any action, decision, or vote that compromises the integrity of our democracy, undermines the interests of the people of Rivers State, or contradicts our core values of fairness, equity, and transparency. We must not allow ourselves to become instruments of injustice or contribute to the betrayal of the people's mandate. At this moment, we must prioritize what is right over what is wrong or convenient, remaining steadfast in defending the well-being of the people of Rivers State. Together, let us stand firm in our resolve — because a new Nigeria is possible! -PO

The unilateral decision of President Bola Tinubu to remove Governor Similaya Fubara of Rivers State from office is not only unconstitutional but also reckless. It has plunged us back into a state of lawlessness, hugely undoing the progress we have made in these 26 years of democratic journey. By disregarding the rule of law, the President has shown a dangerous willingness to trample on democracy. The declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State is not just reckless—it is a clear attempt to return us to a state of nature and tighten its grip on power at all costs. It is a degrading back door imposition of martial rule on a strategic part of the federation with all the implied negatives . The political situation on the ground in Rivers does not justify such an extreme measure, and it is also a biased interpretation of section 305(1) of the 1999 constitution. A state of emergency does not mean an elected Governor can be removed unilaterally. This decision does not align with democratic norms or good governance. Instead, it appears to be a predetermined action serving specific interests rather than the collective good of the people of Rivers State and Nigeria. This action constitutes an unconstitutional overreach, setting a dangerous precedent that threatens democracy, the rule of law, and the separation of powers. If left unchecked, it could foster a culture of impunity. Having already been grappling with non-adherence to electoral qualifications, rules, and massive rigging, adding arbitrary removal of elected officials will push us to a state of nature and anarchy. I appeal to the National Assembly and all stakeholders not to allow this to stand, as it only deepens the culture of impunity and brigand already threatening our democracy. A new Nigeria is POssible! -PO

This is my official and only TikTok page. Kindly join me in building a New Nigeria that is POssible. – PO https://t.co/sryN0t1qO4

It is unfortunate that, 60 years after independence and nearly 30 years of our celebrated unbroken civil rule, our democracy is still marred by undemocratic practices and values. A significant percentage of our elections are deeply flawed—manipulated to serve the interests of a select few rather than reflecting the true will of the people. Governance at most levels does not reflect the genuine values and aspirations of the people because the welfare of the citizens is often neglected in practice. Looking at the ongoing crisis in Rivers State, we see yet another glaring example of how our democracy and governmence is not serving it's purpose, the welfare of the people of River State. The disagreement is not about improving the measurable indices of development: education, healthcare, or lifting people out of poverty but rather for reasons that do not in any way benefit the people of Rivers State and Nigeria in general. I fully understand the impact of what is happening in Rivers State. The real losers are the people—their welfare and the future of the society their children will live in. My respectful appeal to all those involved is to reconsider their positions and reflect on the grace God has bestowed upon them as leaders. They must think about the suffering people of Rivers State and work towards a better future for their children. My commitment remains to continuously remember them in earnest prayers and to advocate for their well-being. I also appeal to well-meaning Nigerians and the Federal Government, in the spirit of true democracy and good governance, to use their offices to restore normalcy and bring an end to this crisis. A new Nigeria is POssible! -PO

In continuation of my commitment to advancing healthcare and education in society, I visited the Tansian University of Nursing in Oba, Anambra State, yesterday. As I have consistently emphasized, our nation's development priorities must be anchored on measurable indices—healthcare, education, and poverty alleviation. Investing in these sectors is not merely an expenditure but a vital investment in our nation's future. My interaction with the students was enlightening, and I donated ₦10 million to support the institution's mission of training well-qualified healthcare professionals. I remain committed to supporting institutions like the Tansian University of Nursing, which play a crucial role in building a healthier, more educated society and lifting people out of poverty. A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO

The National Youth Corps member, Ushie Rita Uguamaye, also known as Raye, recently had an experience that highlights a troubling trend in our nation—one where voices of reason and truth are met with intimidation rather than dialogue and engagement. Reports indicate that she has faced threats from NYSC officials simply for expressing her concerns about the current administration. This pattern is not isolated. I, too, have been subjected to threats for daring to offer constructive suggestions and comments. I now face daily intimidation, harassment, and name-calling simply for expressing solution-based views on government policies. Such actions are antithetical to the principles of democracy. A government that silences its citizens is not democratic or one that is subject to accountability and good governance and is most often corrupt. I urge the current administration to reflect deeply on its approach to dissent and recognize that constructive criticism is a cornerstone of democratic progress. To all patriotic Nigerians: Our nation's future and development depend on our collective courage to speak out against misgovernance, injustice, and intimidation. Do not let fear stifle your voice. Stand firm, support one another, and continue to advocate for Nigeria we all envision—a nation where freedom of speech is sacrosanct, and leadership is accountable to the people, especially in critical areas such as education, healthcare, and poverty alleviation. A just and prosperous Nigeria should be one where people like Raye are encouraged to speak out about the challenges they face, while those in government take urgent action to address these issues. A New Nigeria is POssible! -PO

Yesterday, I visited the proposed Holy Rosary School of Nursing and Midwifery in Mbaise, Imo State, which is set to commence operations in September 2025. As I have always advocated, our development priorities must be anchored on measurable indices—healthcare, education, and poverty alleviation. At the foundation of a good healthcare system are well-trained professionals. In support of this institution, I donated ₦10 million and assured them of my continued commitment to their growth. Thereafter, I visited one of the well-functioning nursing schools, Our Lady of Lourdes in Ihiala, Anambra State, and also donated ₦10 million to support their efforts in providing quality healthcare to the people. Our nation must invest in critical areas of human capital development to drive sustainable progress. I will continue to support institutions that contribute to a healthier and more educated society. A new Nigeria is POssible! – PO

Building a New Nigeria: Engaging for Progress and Unity Yesterday, as part of my commitment to the New Nigeria project, I visited Governor Bala Mohammed in Bauchi State to discuss the state of our nation and explore ways to move our people forward. We had meaningful conversations about governance and the economic hardships currently facing Nigerians, especially in the North. We reflected on the need for competent and inclusive leadership that transcends political, religious, and ethnic lines, prioritizes prudent resource management, and implements policies that will enhance the welfare of our citizens. At this critical time, we must continue to engage, consult, and invest in initiatives that lift our people out of poverty and criminality while fostering a more productive and equitable society. As always, my commitment remains steadfast in building a New Nigeria—one where good governance, transparency, and accountability drive national development. This includes investing in critical sectors such as education, healthcare, and poverty alleviation. I sincerely thank Governor Bala Mohammed for the warm reception, the insightful discussions, and his willingness to collaborate with us in working towards a better Nigeria. A New Nigeria is becoming very POssible! – PO

Today, I received the sad news of the passing of Ijeoma Egelonu, a committed and cherished member of our Obidient family. She fought bravely while battling illness, and I remember visiting her in the hospital in Abuja last December. In those moments, I saw her unwavering spirit, and I encouraged her to hold on to hope as we all prayed for her full recovery. Hearing of her passing today is truly heartbreaking. Yet, even in our grief, we surrender to the divine will of the Almighty, who alone gives and takes life. On behalf of my family and the entire Obidient family, I extend my deepest condolences to her loved ones and to all of us who feel the pain of this great loss. Ijeoma played her part in our collective struggle for a better nation, and her contributions will never be forgotten. Her memory will live on in our hearts, inspiring us to keep pushing forward. May God Almighty grant her eternal rest and give her family, friends, and all who mourn her the strength to bear this irreplaceable loss. May God protect and bless her family always. -PO

Today is International Women's Day, a day set aside by the global community to celebrate women and womanhood. It's also a time to honour women's achievements and advance advocacy for their rights, opportunities, and empowerment. This year's theme : "For ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment," emphasizes the importance of protecting women's rights and fostering their empowerment for the progress of our nation. Women in Nigeria who have shown enormous resilience remain trapped in cycles of poverty, with limited access to basic healthcare—marked by low neonatal care high infant mortality, education, and other essential services. Among the millions of out-of-school children, girls account for the majority. They continue to bear the brunt of the rising insecurity as they are disproportionately affected by violence, abductions, and other forms of insecurity. Despite their critical contributions to society, Nigerian women hold only 6% of leadership positions in the private sector, while political representation continues to decline, reaching its lowest point after the 2023 elections. Even for the few women who break through these systemic barriers and secure positions of power, the challenges are relentless. Senator Ireti Kingibe and Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan are just two examples of women who, despite their electoral victories, continue to face the harshest forms of discrimination and hostility in our public space. These examples lay bare the brutal reality for women in politics—a system that not only resists their inclusion but actively works to push them out. Without affirmative action to guarantee a minimum of 25% representation in all decision-making bodies—across all arms of government, both elective and appointive women will remain excluded. The same principle should apply in the corporate world and other areas of our national livelihood. Aggressive investment in girl-child education—particularly in educationally disadvantaged areas—is essential if we are to break these cycles of inequality and underdevelopment. I continue to advocate for women because of the critical role they play in family and national development. The time to act is now. Women are the backbone of our society, and the progress of our nation depends on ensuring they have equal opportunities to shape our collective future. A new Nigeria is POssible! -PO

Following the sad news of the death of my dear elder brother, late Dr Doyin Okupe and my earlier tweet today, I visited his family this evening to offer my heartfelt condolences. I assured them that we will stand by them during this difficult time. While no one can question God's will, we must continue to support and stand by one another, especially in time of grief. Once again, may Almighty God grant the family the fortitude to bear this irreplaceable loss, and may the soul of Dr. Doyin Okupe rest in perfect peace. -PO

With great sadness this morning, I received the shocking news of the death of my dear elder brother, Dr. Doyin Okupe. On behalf of the family and the Obidient family, I sincerely mourn his passing. Dr. Okupe was an active figure in the nation’s political space and a man who desired a better Nigeria. His death is a profound loss - not only to his family and loved ones but to all of us. I would therefore like to urge members of the Obidient Movement and other groups to pray for the eternal repose of Dr. Okupe’s soul and to remember his family during these trying times. May God Almighty, who called him home, grant him eternal rest and grant his family, and all of us, the fortitude to bear this sad and irreplaceable loss. May God Almighty bless his family always. - PO

Today in Abeokuta, Ogun State, I delightfully joined in the series of activities marking the 88th birthday of a revered elder statesman and father figure, President Olusegun Obasanjo. Undoubtedly, President Obasanjo remains a deeply respected and admired Nigerian leader whose immense contributions to our nation's growth remain immeasurable and undiminished At the time he became President in 1999, Nigeria's GDP was about $59Billion with a per capita of around $490, our foreign debt stock was about $32Billion and when he left office in 2007, our GDP was $278B, GDP per capita was $1800, and foreign debt reduced to $3.2B with a significant increase in our foreign reserves. His true patriotism and bold sacrifices for a better Nigeria and Africa remain remarkable. His commitment to the unity of our nation has remained exceptional. May God grant him more healthy, fruitful, and happy years ahead, and continue to bless him always. -PO

My attention has been drawn to a news report saying that I described the Supreme Court ruling on Rivers State as reckless. The statement I made from which the report was drawn is on the general terms of the attitude of the political elites in the face of deepening poverty in the land. There's nowhere I made direct remarks on the Supreme Court ruling as reckless. Even if a ruling of the apex court is not agreeable to me, I cannot describe it as reckless. I find it very necessary to give this clarification. -PO

As the Christian community around the world celebrates Ash Wednesday today, marking the beginning of the Lenten Season, a period of fasting, prayers and almsgiving, I wish all Christians in Nigeria a fruitful Lenten season. This is a season of sober reflection on our journey as a nation in the light of our present challenges and our future opportunities. It is also a season of personal sacrifices, not just for spiritual upliftment, but for national growth and development. May we continue to show love to one another irrespective of tribe or religious background according to the Holy teachings. May we also continue to support one another through these challenging times while praying for God's intervention in our nation. I wish us all a fruitful Lenten season filled with blessings as we all continue to work towards the new and better nation we all deserve. A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO

After my engagements in London, yesterday, I arrived in Abuja today to pay my tributes to the memory of a man I regard as one of Nigeria's best minds, the Late Dunu Chu Okongwu who served our dear nation as the Minister of National Planning, Minister of Finance and Minister of Petroleum and Mineral Resources, all under the then Head of States, Gen Ibrahim Babangida. Chu Okongwu's service to the nation was reflective of his devotion and commitment to the progress of the nation. He was a man of integrity who not only served the nation faithfully but worked tirelessly for our national development. He lived an exemplary life of modesty and demonstrated the level of self-control obviously lacking in our political leadership today. Not minding the enviable positions he held, in the country, he only had 2 houses; one in Enugu and one in his home village. Okongwu was one of the few Nigerians in public service who rejected the seductions of self-aggrandizement and looting of the public treasury. As the then Minister of Finance, he was one of those who advised Gen Babangida on the licensing of new banks. But he neither issued a license to himself nor did he use his position to influence those given the banking licenses into giving him part ownership. Even as the Petroleum Minister, he did not allocate an oil block or oil import license to himself, as would be the case today. If he had used his position of service to enrich himself rather than work for the nation, he would have been celebrated, and his funeral would have been glamorised by dignitaries because we are in a nation that still celebrates criminals and criminals. He committed his knowledge, skills and passion to the service of the nation, and I have come to bid him farewell. I do hope that we, the leaders, will learn from his good legacies. May God grant him eternal rest and console his family, and every one of us. -PO