Mustapha Shehu

Abu Jabo dismissed reports that terrorists were killed in the strike, stressing that Jabo has no history of insurgency or bandit activity. “There are no terrorists here. There are no Christians here either. Jabo is a peaceful, Muslim community. We do not have security problems,” he added. Local sources also dispute claims that the area harbors ISIS-linked elements, describing Jabo as a quiet farming settlement with no record of extremist activity.

His career spanned over six decades, during which he acted in more than 300 films. Known as the ‘He-Man’ of Bollywood, he captivated audiences with his charisma, rugged good looks, and versatile performances. Some of his most memorable roles include Veeru in the legendary film Sholay (1975), where his chemistry with Amitabh Bachchan became the stuff of legends, and his performances in hits such as Phool Aur Patthar (1966), Satyakam (1969), Chupke Chupke (1975), Seeta Aur Geeta (1972), and Yaadon Ki Baaraat (1973). 

The suppression of opposition undermines the fundamental tenets of democracy by stifling dissent, eroding public trust in institutions, and limiting voter choice. When the judiciary and politicians collaborate, wittingly or unwittingly, to silence alternative voices, accountability suffers and democratic norms weaken. As seen during the Shagari era, these practices can precipitate political crises, disenfranchise citizens, and pave the way for authoritarian interventions, such as military coups.

When considering Africa’s present political landscape, the dispute between Wike and Yerima serves as a timely caution. It underlines how critical it is for Nigeria’s leaders to enforce institutional boundaries, respect legal frameworks, and preserve disciplined relations between civilians and the military. Actions such as making public apologies, conducting open investigations, and recommitting to procedures are more than just formalities—they help safeguard against potential military involvement and protect democratic institutions. Most importantly, President Bola Tinubu must reconsider his alliance with Wike, who increasingly seems to be a problematic figure within his administration.

Port Harcourt is Nigeria’s oil heart. That’s the entry point to the Niger Delta, where most of Nigeria’s crude is refined and exported. Whoever controls that region controls Nigeria’s economic pulse. ‘Protection of Christians’ is the narrative oil, is the motive. They use religion because it divides and distracts. But if their goal was purely humanitarian, they’d build hospitals, schools, and trauma centers not military bases beside oil pipelines and export terminals.

The shift of power to MOFI, a government-controlled entity, increases the risk of political influence over NNPCL’s operations. Modern oil companies thrive when operational and strategic decisions are insulated from shifting political priorities. Excessive state intervention can lead to short-termism, policy reversals, or decisions influenced by political expediency rather than sound commercial reasoning.