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10 nations should be created out of Nigeria – Asagba of Asaba

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Asagba of Asaba, Prof Chike Edozien, speaks with MATTHEW OCHEI on his centenary anniversary and state of the nation

How do you feel about your forthcoming centenary anniversary?

I am very happy to be here alive and healthy to celebrate my 100 birthday. I thank God for the long life but as Bishop Chukwuma said, 100 years is for preparation and 120 years is the time to fly; so I’m preparing to fly.

Some have referred to Asaba as the first capital called Nigeria as it was once the administrative headquarters of the Royal Niger Company.

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What are your thoughts on the journey Asaba has made from that time till date?

Here is just a brief history of Asaba kingdom. From the information available, Asaba has been here for over 500 years; the first king of Asaba was Nnebisi, who came to Asaba from Igala land. When he died, unfortunately, there was no successor and the town was divided among five of his six grandchildren.

And so, that was how we developed the five Ebos (quarters) and there was no king. These five Ebos lived independently for about 400 years.

How they managed to remain one town when there was not a single leader and cooperated is a mystery to me.

After 400 years, they realised that for progress, they needed one leader; so they created the title of Asagba of Asaba as the king for the five units. Surprisingly, they created the title of Asagba of Asaba as the king but they did not unify the land. So, we have one king, five Ebos and five lands, but the king does not have control over any land.

Therefore, people see Asaba as a kingdom with a king who does not have control over any land.

One of my ambitions, since I became Asagba of Asaba, is to complete the journey of unifying the land. We are in the process of doing that so that we will remain a kingdom with one king and one land. So, the end will be one king, one land so that we will become a full-fledged nation

With your years of experience as a monarch, what advice do you have for Nigerian leaders on how to keep the country one?

During the colonial era when Britain ruled Nigeria, we witnessed a civil war and the efforts to bring Nigeria together as one country.

So, the concept of separation in Nigeria was born. We fought for independence and with the independence, we had a new constitution.

Britain ruled Nigeria as a British colony for many years for peace and development. I believe that the peace and development in Nigeria during the colonial period was a Britain-introduced idea of indirect rule.

The British government ruled the people under the direction of the kings. So the Ebos of the five units of Asaba functioned like a local government.

At independence, politicians created the Federal Government of Nigeria and also created local governments following the pattern they observed in many other countries.

And so, the people and the traditional rulers were out of the system. We had two local governments; a constitutional local government with the power and money, and the people’s local government with their traditional rulers and the land.

And I think that’s the greatest impediment to developing Nigeria and the problem of rural poverty and insecurity cannot be solved until the continuation of the constitutional local government and the people government.

What steps can be taken to accomplish that?

To accomplish this, there should be a change and amendment of the constitution. When the government announced the amendment of the constitution, I sent this proposal to the Constitutional Conference but it was never done

One of the problems that has faced Nigeria over the years is insecurity, what suggestions do you have for the government to address the security challenges?

I had those issues in mind when I sent my proposal for the amendment of the constitution. I believe that if the same idea of indirect rule is re-established, the traditional rulers will be able to identify those rebels and criminals in their domains.

Those Boko Haram insurgents have parents and they are part of the community. The community can identify them, and by doing so, we will no longer have them among us in Nigeria.

The traditional rulers should be recognised as the true local governments and the problem will be solved.

One of the issues confronting Nigeria is ethnic tension, what advice do you have for the country on how to tackle it?

On a personal point of view, I wonder why the ethnic issue is so strong in Nigeria.

I said so because this ethnic issue was not an issue with me when I was a professor at the University of Ibadan. I’m an Igbo man from Asaba, my wife is an Egba woman from Abeokuta; my cook was a

Hausa man from Bauchi; my steward was a Calabar man; and my maid was an Edo girl, and we lived happily together.

Since we did not understand each other’s languages, we communicated in English; so why can’t Egba people live happily with Igbo people is beyond my understanding.

At that level, I lived together with an Egba wife and there were no issues or problems. So, I think many people used ethnic issues to their advantage.

As the Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, one time I got to know Dr (Adeoye) Lambo, he was a psychiatrist; I decided that we would create a department of psychiatry in the medical school and brought him.

I also contacted a very efficient surgeon in the United Kingdom and I decided to invite him to come back to Nigeria to Ibadan as a new surgeon.

There were no funds available at that time for the position, so I met a foundation to get money to appoint him. That was what I did for Dr Lambo and the other man and they were Yoruba people.

The ethnic issue is a very strong feeling in the minds and hearts of the people in Nigeria. So, how we are going to cure it is difficult to say.

One solution I gave in one interaction is to give autonomy to different units that make up Nigeria. For instance, separate Igbo people in Delta State and put them together to become one nation.

So, Nigeria should create like 10 different nations and they can cooperate like the European Union is doing to reduce the tension of ethnicity in Nigeria, because it is a powerful matter that you cannot put aside.

Would you say that the ethnic problem is better or worse today in Nigeria?

From my observation and watching the interplay of personalities in the Federal Government, I think the ethnic issue is as strong today as it was 40 years ago, and one of the things I suggested was that universities should create a faculty or department of nation-building. We are trying to put over 250 ethnic groups into one nation.

I know that the ethnic issue in Nigeria is very strong, so, I think it should be something to study in Nigerian universities; studying nation-building will reduce the problem of ethnicity because it is a very strong problem for over 250 ethnic groups to live in one nation.

What is your message to Nigerian leaders, especially on issues of ethnicity, security and the economy?

I believe that Nigeria can be a very great nation, the most populous in Africa. We need to have peace and development in Nigeria,and one of the major problems and setbacks in Nigeria is corruption, We need to fight corruption.

Corruption is so deep in Nigeria; my observation is that we have come to a stage where everything we hear is false unless proven, and we are living in a nation where everybody is a suspect unless proven otherwise.

It is a disease and we need to fight the disease. Again, we need to study how 250 ethnic groups can become one nation and we need to fight corruption.

What will you say to Nigerians to feel good about themselves?

In addition to what I have said earlier, we have to fight poverty; at independence, $2 made N1; today, $1 is over N1,300.

How can you survive in this economy? So the economy has to improve, even those who work hard and save their money in the bank will have their money devalued over a thousand times.

Has Nigeria done well as a country?

I was listening to a conversation by some Nigerians in the United States.

Everyone agreed that the level of corruption in Nigeria is surprising and some say it is not only in Nigeria, but Africa’s problem, and somebody else says no it is not Africa’s but Nigeria’s problem.

The Benin Republic which is close to Nigeria is in Africa and there is zero corruption; if they can achieve it there, why can’t we achieve it in Nigeria?

There are two things to do; one is that everybody should be proud to be a Nigerian; another is that we have to comprehensively review the constitution and bring in the traditional rulers so that we will be one.

The level of corruption in Nigeria cannot be compared to any other country. We need to fight corruption and the causes of corruption.

Again, there should be a change of attitude in Nigeria. The current attitude can’t bring development. Review the constitution and fight corruption; these are fundamental things to do if we must develop.

SOURCE: PUNCH NEWSPAPER


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Abuja

Mercedes G63 Kills Six Cows in Abuja Highway Crash

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A luxury Mercedes-Benz G-Class G63 AMG was involved in a late-night crash on a major highway in Abuja, killing six cows and sparking renewed concerns over road safety and enforcement of grazing laws in the Federal Capital Territory.
The incident occurred around 8 p.m. on Monday,

according to eyewitness accounts, when the high-speed SUV collided with a herd of cows that had reportedly strayed onto the roadway. A video circulating on social media shows the aftermath, with the white cows lying across the dark highway as traffic officials worked to manage the situation.


As of the time of filing this report, there were no confirmed injuries to the driver or any passengers in the vehicle. Unverified reports on social media suggested that the SUV sustained only minor damage despite the severity of the collision.


The accident has reignited debates over the continued presence of cattle on major roads in Abuja, despite the 2017 ban on open grazing introduced by the Federal Capital Territory Administration. The policy was designed to curb frequent clashes between herders and communities, as well as prevent traffic disruptions and accidents caused by roaming livestock.

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Residents and road users have repeatedly raised concerns about the enforcement of the grazing ban, noting that cows are still often seen along highways and within urban areas of the capital. Monday night’s crash is the latest in a series of such incidents, highlighting ongoing gaps in regulation and compliance.


Authorities are yet to release an official statement on the crash or confirm whether any action will be taken regarding the presence of the cattle on the highway.

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Jobs

Job Vancancy: Moniepoint Job Vacancies in Abuja and North Central Nigeria

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Research Interviewers Job in Nigeria – Jhpiego Hiring Across 36 States & FCT
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Leading Nigerian fintech company Moniepoint has announced six new job openings across Abuja and several states in the North Central region, expanding its workforce in compliance, technical operations, sales, and security management.

The vacancies cut across multiple departments, reflecting the company’s continued growth in agent banking, SME solutions, and digital financial infrastructure services.

Available Positions

Field Risk & Internal Control Officer (North Central)

  • Team: Compliance
  • Location: FCT, Nigeria
    The role focuses on monitoring operational risks, enforcing internal control standards, and ensuring compliance across field operations in the region.

Apply Here

Hardware Engineer

  • Team: Advanced Technical Operations
  • Location: FCT, Nigeria
    Successful candidates will handle hardware installation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and technical support for field operations.

Apply Here

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Implementation Officer (North Central)

  • Team: Moniebook Business Management Tools
  • Locations: Benue, Plateau, FCT
    This role involves onboarding merchants and ensuring smooth deployment of Moniepoint’s business tools across assigned regions.

Apply Here

Inbound Sales Officer (Abuja)

  • Team: Moniebook Business Management Tools
  • Location: FCT, Nigeria
    The position focuses on handling inbound customer inquiries, converting leads, and supporting sales growth for Moniepoint business solutions.

Apply Here

Regional Lead, Corporate Security (North)

  • Team: Moniepoint MFB
  • Locations: FCT, Kano
    The role oversees corporate security operations, risk prevention strategies, and protection of company assets across northern Nigeria.

Apply Here

Regional Lead, Field Risk & Internal Control (North)

  • Team: Compliance
  • Location: FCT, Nigeria
    This leadership position is responsible for coordinating regional risk management teams and strengthening internal control systems.

Apply Here

The hiring drive comes as fintech companies in Nigeria continue to expand their physical and digital operations across underserved regions, particularly in agent banking and SME support services.

Moniepoint, one of the fastest-growing fintech firms in the country, has steadily increased recruitment in technical, compliance, and field operations roles over the past year.

With these openings, Moniepoint is strengthening its presence in Abuja and northern Nigeria while scaling its financial services infrastructure across the country.

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Business

Nigerians Slam Moniepoint CEO Over ‘Talent Quality’ Remarks Amid Hiring Debate

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Comments by Tosin Eniolorunda, CEO of Moniepoint, have sparked a heated debate online after he questioned the quality of Nigeria’s talent pool while discussing his company’s hiring challenges.


Speaking at the The Platform Nigeria on May 1, Eniolorunda said the fintech firm had advertised over 500 vacancies since 2024 but struggled to find qualified local candidates. He revealed that by 2025, the company reversed its local-only hiring policy due to the shortage.


I used to feel Nigerians are really bright… but we are still struggling to find Nigerians to fill those roles. They don’t meet global standards,” he said, attributing the gap to factors such as social media distractions, cybercrime, hookup culture, and weaknesses in the education system.

Backlash and Counterarguments



His remarks triggered swift backlash from Nigerians, particularly within the tech community, with many accusing local companies of failing to invest in talent development.

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Critics argued that unlike global firms, Nigerian tech companies rarely offer structured, paid internship programs or training pipelines to groom young professionals. Some pointed to examples of international companies like Oracle Corporation, where internships and early talent programs serve as entry points into full-time roles.


Others shared personal experiences of being rejected by local firms despite strong resumes, while noting that Nigerian professionals continue to secure roles in global companies such as Amazon.


A recurring sentiment online was that many Nigerian companies demand “global-standard talent” but are unwilling to offer competitive compensation or career development opportunities.

Industry Perspective



Supporters of Eniolorunda’s stance, however, pointed to the realities of scaling a fast-growing fintech company in a competitive global market. They cited brain drain, limited specialized skills, and increasing demand for top-tier expertise as genuine challenges facing Nigerian startups.


Analysts say the controversy highlights a broader issue within Nigeria’s tech ecosystem balancing expectations between employers and job seekers, while addressing gaps in education, training, and remuneration.



The debate mirrors ongoing tensions around talent development, compensation, and hiring practices in Nigeria’s fast-evolving tech sector.

As companies expand and compete globally, the question of how to build, retain, and fairly reward talent is likely to remain a central issue.

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Outrage as Soldier Assaults Journalist Over Traffic Dispute in Lagos

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A Nigerian soldier has allegedly assaulted a journalist, Fakoyejo Olalekan, during a traffic control operation in Lagos State, triggering widespread public condemnation after video footage of the incident surfaced online.
The clash occurred on May 2 near Pleasant Event Centre in Ikeja, where personnel of the Nigerian Army were reportedly directing heavy traffic.


According to eyewitness accounts, the altercation began after Fakoyejo remarked to passengers that a soldier’s handling of a motorcyclist had caused an unnecessary delay. The comment allegedly angered one of the soldiers, who ordered everyone out of the vehicle.


The situation escalated when the soldier reportedly slapped and shoved the journalist, and briefly reached for a piece of wood before bystanders intervened to prevent further escalation.


Video clips circulating on social media show at least two soldiers involved in the confrontation. During the incident, Fakoyejo’s phone screen was also seen shattered on the pavement. No serious injuries were reported.

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The footage has since triggered widespread criticism online, with many users calling for accountability and questioning the conduct of military personnel during civilian traffic enforcement duties.


As of May 4, the Nigerian Army had yet to issue an official response despite being tagged in multiple public complaints and posts about the incident.

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Outrage as DSS Arraigns Chidiebere Justice Mark Over Alleged Cybercrime, Military Incitement

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The Department of State Services (DSS) on Monday arraigned Chidiebere Justice Mark, popularly known as Justice Crack, before the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja on a three-count charge bordering on cybercrime and alleged incitement against the military.

Mark was earlier arrested by the Nigerian Army over a viral video and accompanying statements he shared via his X (formerly Twitter) handle, @JusticeCrack, in which he reportedly alleged inadequate feeding of Nigerian soldiers.

According to the charge sheet, the defendant is accused of knowingly circulating false information intended to provoke public annoyance, ill will, and hatred among citizens.

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Details of Charges

Count One alleges that on April 28, 2026, Mark disseminated information on social media regarding poor feeding conditions of Nigerian Army personnel, which authorities claim he knew to be false. The offence is said to contravene Section 24(1)(b) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, 2015 (as amended).

Count Two states that the accused published a viral video and statements about the Nigerian Army that triggered widespread negative reactions and were likely to cause fear and a breach of peace. This charge is brought under Section 59 of the Criminal Code Act.

Count Three accuses Mark of attempting to commit a felony by circulating what authorities described as derogatory content about the Army, also linked to potential public unrest, punishable under Section 509 of the Criminal Code Act.

Court Proceedings

Presiding judge, Joyce Abdulmalik, adjourned the case to May 25, 2026, for trial and possible hearing of a bail application. The court also ordered that the defendant be remanded in DSS custody pending further proceedings.

Public Reaction

The arraignment has sparked widespread reactions across social media, with civil rights advocates and concerned citizens debating issues around freedom of expression, national security, and the limits of online speech in Nigeria.

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