Ex-leader says legacy decrees weaken Nigeria’s democracy; calls for urgent constitutional review to reflect civilian rule

Former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar (rtd), has called for the removal of military-era decrees embedded in Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution, saying their continued presence undermines democratic governance. Abdulsalami made this appeal in Abuja on Wednesday during a public event focused on constitutional reforms.

The former leader, who oversaw the country’s transition from military to civilian rule in 1999, stated that several decrees were ‘smuggled’ into the Constitution when it was drafted by military authorities. He argued that these provisions are inconsistent with the principles of democracy and urged stakeholders to prioritise their removal during ongoing constitutional amendment efforts.

Abdulsalami’s remarks come at a time when debates over constitutional restructuring and true federalism have intensified across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. Many political actors and civil society groups have long criticised the current Constitution for retaining elements of military rule that centralise power and limit states’ autonomy.

While addressing participants at the event, Abdulsalami said, ‘It is important that we identify and expunge all remnants of military decrees from our Constitution so as to strengthen our democracy.’ He added that a constitution truly owned by Nigerians would help foster unity and stability. No official response has been issued yet from the National Assembly or the presidency regarding his comments.

Advocates for constitutional review say removing military-era laws will enhance citizens’ rights and improve governance at all levels. Discussions on possible amendments are expected to continue as lawmakers, legal experts, and regional leaders push for reforms that reflect Nigeria’s democratic aspirations.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/headlines/888538-abdulsalami-canvasses-removal-of-military-decrees-smuggled-into-1999-constitution.html

Prime Minister Osa Nsue Nsua submits resignation following government’s poor performance review; citizens doubt power shift as Obiang stays in control

The entire cabinet of Equatorial Guinea has resigned after a government performance review found that only about 10 percent of its targets were achieved, prompting President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo to announce plans for a cabinet reshuffle. The resignation, which was submitted on Monday by Prime Minister Manuel Osa Nsue Nsua in Malabo, follows mounting criticism over delays in infrastructure projects and slow progress on key development commitments.

According to Vice President Teodoro Nguema Obiang Mangue, the administration’s performance was ‘clearly insufficient’ and fell far below the expectations set during the last campaign. The decision affects all ministers and senior officials within the central government and comes amid increasing calls for accountability from both the ruling Democratic Party of Equatorial Guinea and the general public.

This development is considered rare in Central Africa, where collective resignations over policy failures are uncommon. Equatorial Guinea’s government had pledged wide-ranging reforms in recent years, particularly around economic diversification and administrative efficiency. However, local reports indicate that concerns persisted about inadequate delivery of public services, governance bottlenecks, and transparency issues.

In a statement released after the mass resignation, Vice President Mangue said: ‘The level of execution has not met expectations of both the leadership and the citizens.’ He added that changes were necessary to restore public confidence in government programmes. No detailed breakdown was provided regarding specific missed targets, but sources cited slow implementation of infrastructure projects and weak economic outcomes as contributing factors.

President Obiang, who has ruled Equatorial Guinea since taking power in a 1979 coup, is expected to announce a new cabinet lineup in the coming days. Despite the shake-up, most analysts and citizens expect minimal change to the country’s political structure as Obiang remains firmly at the helm. The president’s tenure has seen significant oil-driven economic growth but also persistent criticism over governance practices.

The cabinet resignation comes at a time when many African countries are grappling with rising costs of living and increased pressure from citizens to deliver on campaign promises. In Equatorial Guinea’s case, stakeholders say swift appointment of new ministers will be critical to accelerating national development plans.

Source: https://www.pulse.ng/story/entire-cabinet-of-equatorial-guinea-resigns-over-failure-to-deliver-in-government-performance-see-full-details-2026061722081542460

Witness alleges Sirika awarded multi-million naira deal to associate without federal procurement approval; EFCC probing

A prosecution witness has told a Federal High Court in Abuja that former Minister of Aviation, Hadi Sirika, bypassed established federal procurement rules when awarding an aviation contract to a company owned by his associate. The testimony came during proceedings on Wednesday as part of ongoing investigations into alleged misconduct in the ministry.

According to details presented in court, the witness stated that Sirika did not follow the stipulated procedures required for awarding government contracts, particularly those involving significant sums. The contract in question was reportedly granted to a firm linked to a personal friend of the ex-minister, raising concerns about transparency and adherence to due process.

This development is significant as it comes amid increased scrutiny of public sector contracts and mounting pressure on government officials to uphold transparency standards. Nigerians have frequently expressed concern about the management of public funds and the prevalence of patronage networks within ministries and parastatals.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has intensified its probe into the matter following the allegations aired in court. The anti-graft agency is seeking clarification on how contracts were awarded under Sirika’s tenure and whether proper approvals were obtained from relevant regulatory bodies.

The case has been adjourned for further hearing, with expectations that more witnesses will be called. Legal analysts say the outcome could set a precedent for future accountability measures within Nigeria’s aviation sector and other ministries.

Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/news/top-news/888535-former-minister-sirika-bypassed-due-process-in-contract-award-to-friend-witness.html