Suspended Kogi Central District Senator, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has arrived at her homecoming rally in helicopter, bypassing state-imposed restrictions on movement and public gatherings.

A massive crowd of supporters gathered in the Okehi Local Government Area, waving placards and chanting slogans in solidarity with the embattled senator.

Despite police warnings to cancel the rally, Akpoti-Uduaghan stood her ground.

“My dear people of Kogi Central, I look forward to our PEACEFUL Sallah celebrations today,” she posted on Facebook earlier that morning.

“However, should we be met with or infiltrated by violence, Nigerians should hold Gov Ododo, Yahaya Bello & SP Godswill Akpabio wholly responsible.”

“Nobody and nothing can stop me from coming home. I’m an Ebira woman; this is my land. I’m the daughter of the late Jimoh Abdul Akpoti. I know my roots; I’m not a bastard, and I’m not afraid of anybody.” – Senator Natasha.

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), has described the recent gruesome killing of 16 traveling hunters in Edo State, as unacceptable.

The hunters were brutally killed by local vigilantes who claimed they were  kidnappers. The action had drawn wife condemnation across the country.

Reacting to the incident, Dr. Tony Ojukwu, SAN, the Executive Secretary of the Commission, said the action was barbaric and expressed deep concern on how fellow citizens could be felled in such gruesome matter.

He added that the incident highlights the dangers of mob justice and the urgent need for effective law enforcement and respect for human rights.

In a statement signed by Hajia Fatima Agwai Mohammed, Director, Corporate Affairs and External Linkages, Ojukwu was quoted to have said further that- “We commend Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, for his swift and decisive action in suspending the Commander of the Edo State Security Corps, CP Friday Ibadin (Rtd.), and banning all illegal vigilante groups operating in the state, but more need to be done” he said.

The NHRC boss said the Commission wishes to use this opportunity to remind the government and the people of Nigeria that every individual has the right to life, as enshrined in Chapter 4 of the 1999 Constitution as amended as well as Article 4 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and Article 6 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.

Furthermore, he said the Commission emphasized that the freedom of movement, as guaranteed by the Constitution and Article 12 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and Article 12 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, has been grossly violated in this dastardly incident.

“We at the Commission demand that all the perpetrators be fished out and brought to justice. We call on the government to take concrete steps to prevent such incidents in the future, there is no justification for jungle justice anywhere in the world,” he said.

The Learned Silk emphasized that every Nigerian has the right to life, dignity, and freedom from violence, regardless of their ethnicity, religion, or occupation.

He said the Commission will continue to advocate for the protection of human rights and the rule of law in Nigeria. “We urge the Edo State Government to continue its investigation into the killings and ensure that all perpetrators face the full wrath of the law. On our part, we will continue to monitor the process of investigation to ensure that justice is served. This will serve as a deterrent to others.

“Promotion and protection of human rights is paramount to national development, let’s all imbibe the culture of respect for human rights and fundamental freedom to make Nigeria a better place”. The Human Rights Advocate admonished.

By Amb. Simeon Uwa Ph.D| March 31, 2025

Where was Nigeria’s democracy ten years ago?

Exactly ten years ago today, on March 31, 2015, former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan made history by conceding defeat to Muhammadu Buhari after a fiercely contested presidential election. In an era where political leaders across Africa often resort to violence, electoral disputes, or unconstitutional manoeuvres to cling to power, Jonathan’s concession remains one of the most defining moments of African democratic maturity. Indeed, then, Nigeria’s democracy was draped in bright colours.

His now-famous telephone call to Buhari was not just a gracious acceptance of electoral results – it was a deliberate commitment to peace, democracy, and national stability. That singular act prevented post-election violence, saved lives, and reinforced Nigeria’s democratic credentials on the global stage.

Decade of Non-Zero-Sum Politics

onathan’s legacy goes beyond that historic phone call. Despite being in the opposition, he willingly collaborated with the Buhari administration on national and international issues, proving that politics need not be a zero-sum game. His statesmanship and dedication to national unity demonstrated that leadership should transcend party affiliations and personal ambition.

Even after leaving office, Jonathan actively engaged in peacebuilding efforts across Africa, leading international mediation missions and advocating for free, fair, and peaceful elections. His philosophy was summed up in his iconic statement:

“My ambition is not worth the blood of any Nigerian.”

That simple yet profound declaration, has been the hallmark of statecraft for emerging democracies and continues to challenge African leaders to prioritise national unity over personal power struggles. It is a call for a political culture that values dialogue over division, Institutions rather than individuals, democracy over dictatorship, and peace over power.

A Model for Africa’s Future

As Africa grapples with military coups, disputed elections, reversal of democratic gains, and authoritarian entrenchment, Jonathan’s approach remains a critical blueprint for democracy and governance reforms. With increasing political instability across the continent – from Guinea to Sudan, Gabon to Burkina Faso – institutionalising patriotic and democratic leadership is no longer an option; it is a necessity. Indeed, this direction should dictate the future for governance in Africa or something worst may befall the continent.

Key Lessons for Africa’s Leadership

1. Peaceful Concession as a Democratic Norm:

a. Jonathan’s concession should be taught as a case study in governance and leadership training for African leaders.

b. The African Union (AU) and ECOWAS should institutionalise peaceful handover of power as a democratic standard.

2. Non tolerance for Zero-Sum Politics:

a. Political transitions should be collaborative rather than adversarial.

b. Future leaders must embrace bipartisanship and national reconciliation as part of governance.

3. Legislating Patriotic and Democratic Leadership as the MODEL for emerging leaders in the Continent.

a. African nations should develop constitutional and electoral frameworks that encourage peaceful political transitions.

b. Leadership training that is focused on patriotism and embracing peaceful democratic transitions, should be mandatory for political office aspirants.

A Legacy Worth Protecting:

A decade after Jonathan’s defining concession, the lesson is clear: African leaders must move beyond the politics of survival and embrace leadership that prioritises peace and national interest.

As Africa continues to navigate political uncertainty, Jonathan’s example remains a beacon of hope for democratic stability and peaceful transitions.

Ten years later, his words still resonate: “My ambition is not worth the blood of any Nigerian.” It is time for African leaders to adopt this mindset—not just in words, but in action.

Ambassador Simeon Uwa, former Nigerian Ambassador to the West Africa Monetary Zone WAMZ is now Executive Secretary, International Summit Council for Peace, ISCP-Africa.