Good morning, Nigeria. Welcome to the Naturenex roundup of the top newspaper headlines making waves across the country today, Saturday, April 19, 2025.
1. Why I Refused To Back Peter Obi In 2023 – Wike
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has shed light on his decision not to support Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential flagbearer, during the 2023 general elections.
During a media chat in Abuja on Friday, Wike described Obi’s bid as unconvincing and labelled him a “social media candidate.”
“No, he has no chance to win election,” Wike stated. “I don’t go to where you see people like this kind of social media candidates. I don’t do social media candidate.”
The former Rivers State governor emphasized that his political choices are based on strategic calculations rather than digital popularity.
“I said I see that as a politician, and I analyse the candidate who is likely to win,” he added.
He further explained that electoral victories in Nigeria are driven by more than qualifications or internet momentum.
“In politics, it’s not always the right that oh, this is the best candidate. No, no, no,” he said. “You see Nigerians today, in politics, so many factors come in.”
Wike also recalled the difficulties during the 2023 elections, including fuel scarcity and the controversial currency redesign.
2. Wike Rejects Allegations Of Intending To Weaken PDP Leadership To Aid Tinubu
FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has denied accusations that he intends to manipulate the upcoming PDP convention to install a pliable national chairman, allegedly to benefit President Bola Tinubu in 2027.
Responding to the claims at a press conference, Wike said he harbored no malicious intentions toward the party.
“It’s not correct, if I have any intention to do anything bad, I will not point out these things,” he said.
“I’m pointing these things out that look at where you are heading to, it will not serve us right, let’s make a sacrifice – allow this man’s tenure to finish and a man who does not love you will not be doing this.”
He also acknowledged his past support for Tinubu, saying, “Do you want South to go to Tinubu? Yes, have I not campaign for him before? It’s not a new thing.”
3. 2027 Presidency: PDP Is Ill-Prepared – Wike Accuses Atiku Of Hypocrisy
According to Nyesom Wike, the PDP is evidently unprepared for the 2027 general elections.
In his remarks during a press briefing in Abuja, Wike expressed confidence in his choice to back Bola Tinubu in 2023, stating the APC wouldn’t have succeeded without his input, especially given the unpopularity of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
He also described Atiku Abubakar as someone whose words cannot be trusted.
4. Tinubu Working To Offset Debts Inherited From Previous Governments – Presidency
Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser on Information and Strategy to the President, has highlighted how President Tinubu’s administration is managing national finances.
He noted that legacy debts from past administrations are being tackled while foreign reserves continue to rise.
“Nigeria, under PBAT, is clearing legacy debts from multiple administrations. Yet, our foreign reserves are rising. The federating states are also receiving more FAAC allocations under PBAT’s administration.”
“Do you know that our IMF loan obligations have been significantly paid down from $2.47 billion as of 2023 to $800.23 million at the end of 2024? A substantial decrease of over 67% in that period,” he wrote on 𝕏.
5. Former Senator Utazi Suspended Indefinitely By APC For Anti-Party Acts
Chuka Utazi, former senator representing Enugu North, has been indefinitely suspended by the APC in Uzo-Uwani LGA, Enugu State, over allegations of anti-party behavior.
Utazi, a former PDP senator who defected to the APC in 2024, reportedly attended PDP meetings and endorsed Governor Peter Mbah for a second term.
The suspension letter was endorsed by three local APC officials.
6. Military Revamps Command Structure Amid Rising Violence In Borno, Plateau
In the wake of escalating violence in Plateau, Borno, and nearby states, the Nigerian military has initiated a strategic reorganization.
New appointments include Major General A.E. Abubakar as the Theatre Commander of Operation Hadin Kai and Major General A.K. Ibrahim as the NDA’s new Commandant.
Despite previous efforts under outgoing commanders, insecurity continues to challenge the military’s operations.
7. Dozens Killed As New Terror Group Emerges In North Central Nigeria
A fresh wave of violence has been triggered by a new group named Mahmuda, now active in parts of Kwara and Niger States.
Reports say the group killed over 15 vigilantes and villagers in Kemanji, Kaiama LGA.
“They call themselves the Mahmuda group. Their leader in a voice note is threatening all the communities. They kill and kidnap victims and also demand ransom,” said a local informant.
8. ‘I’m Ready For Peace’ – Wike Expresses Willingness To Reconcile With Fubara
Nyesom Wike has opened the door to reconciliation with Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, if approached sincerely.
“These two governors came to me and I said, ‘look, I am here for peace. What does he want?’ and they said, ‘look, we will do everything.’”
“In sincerity, if anybody comes, it must be in sincerity. The best opportunity was when the President intervened.”
Wike also voiced support for President Tinubu’s emergency measures in Rivers and expressed a desire to see Fubara removed.
9. Seyi Law: My Support For Tinubu Made Some Nigerians Turn Against Me
Comedian Seyi Law has admitted that backing President Tinubu cost him both popularity and patronage.
Despite the backlash, he said he remains steadfast in his belief that Tinubu is the best choice for Nigeria.
He emphasized that even Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi would not have done better, given their past records.
Seyi Law concluded by expressing optimism that his children would benefit from Tinubu’s reforms in the years ahead.
10. NPFL: Lobi Stars Vs Rangers Rescheduled
The NPFL fixture between Lobi Stars and Rangers International FC has been moved forward by a day.
Initially planned for Sunday, April 20, the match will now hold on Saturday, April 19, at Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium in Enugu.
Lobi Stars said, “To our cherished fans, please be informed that our Matchday 34 tie against Rangers International FC of Enugu, earlier slated for Sunday, April 20th, will now be played a day earlier, Saturday, April 19th, at 4:00.”
“The venue remains the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Enugu. We truly appreciate your patience and continued encouragement.”
That wraps up today’s headlines. Stay connected with Naturenex for more timely updates. See you again tomorrow.
