By Onilede Titi Faith

On Nigeria’s Democracy Day, all eyes were on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as he addressed the National Assembly amidst swirling concerns about the nation’s democratic future.

Speculation about a potential drift toward a one-party system had been mounting, fueled by recent political defections and comments from APC Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje, who controversially remarked that there was “nothing wrong” with a one-party state.

“I will be the last person to destroy our democracy. A one-party system is not good for Nigeria. It’s not who we are,” Tinubu declared.

His words were more than a speech; they were a promise to Nigerians. He addressed both the lawmakers present and millions watching across the country, invoking the spirit of the June 12 struggle.

This historical reference served as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made to establish and sustain the democracy Nigerians hold dear. For many, this acknowledgment struck a chord, offering a rare moment of unity in an otherwise polarized political climate.

Despite the president’s reassurances, the streets of Lagos told a different story. Protests highlighted the frustration of young Nigerians grappling with rising living costs and economic uncertainty. Their message was clear: “We’re tired. We need change.”

Debo Ologunagba, spokesperson for the opposition PDP, echoed these sentiments, stating, “What we’re seeing isn’t just about politics. It’s about survival. Nigerians deserve better than being silenced.”

For many, democracy is more than a political system, it represents hope, opportunity, and the freedom to be heard. Tinubu’s assurances were welcomed by some, but the challenge lies in turning words into actionable policies. Will this promise of democratic preservation translate into tangible change?

This year’s Democracy Day was not merely a celebration but a stark reminder of what’s at stake. Nigerians are determined to protect the democratic values they fought so hard to achieve, and as history has shown, their resolve is unshakable.

By Ade Iyamoye

In the theatre of Nigerian politics, few characters command the spotlight with as much flair, drama, and mystique as Senator Dino Melaye.

A man of many contradictions; outspoken yet cryptic, flashy yet focused; Melaye has mastered the art of political performance. His latest appearance on Facebook, captured in a trending video, is yet another masterclass in symbolism, satire, and style.

Draped in an immaculate white Agbada adorned with three upward facing houses, Melaye strolls confidently as a Yoruba Gospel song plays in the background: “Come and tie me a girdle, you host of heaven…” It is not just fashion.

It is performance, a coded message to both allies and adversaries. The outfit itself speaks volumes. White, often associated with purity and a new beginning, could be his way of signaling progress or rebirth. The three houses suggest construction, growth, and possibly political realignment.

Interestingly, the colour scheme bears a striking resemblance to that of the All Progressives Grand Alliance, a party popular in the southeast. While Melaye has never publicly aligned himself with APGA, the subtle nod may suggest a desire to speak across regional and party lines.

It could be a deliberate political tease, typical of his unpredictable brand of showmanship.

The choice of music, too, is telling. The repeated invocation “tie me a girdle” evokes a sense of divine empowerment.

In a political environment often plagued with uncertainty and betrayal, the girdle becomes a metaphor, a call for strength, protection, and readiness. It is not just a song. It is a declaration.

Melaye’s flair for drama has often been dismissed as mere vanity, but to view it only as such is to miss the deeper strategy. His flamboyance is a political tool.

In a space where many rely on policy documents and press statements, Melaye uses visuals, fashion, and culture to speak to the people. He is aware of the power of optics and capitalises on it fully.

Moreover, his style allows him to remain unpredictable and almost mythic. One moment he is singing in his mansion, the next he is quoting scripture in designer wear. Through this spectacle, Melaye positions himself not just as a politician but as a political brand, one that is hard to ignore.

At its core, this video is a study in political symbolism. It blends cultural heritage with modern political commentary, using fashion, music, and movement to communicate what words often cannot.

In doing so, Dino Melaye reminds us that in Nigerian politics, performance is not a distraction. It is the message.

And for Melaye, that message is clear. I am still here. I am still relevant. And I will be seen.

By Anifowoshe Oladipupo Oluwadamilola

“As the harmattan wind carries seeds, so does gospel music sow faith and uplift across digital plains”

Gospel music is witnessing a remarkable rise in Nigeria, with Nathaniel Bassey emerging as a leading voice in the genre.

In the first quarter of 2025, Bassey garnered an impressive 52.8 million streams on YouTube Music, placing him among the top Nigerian artists globally on the platform.

His soul-stirring tracks such as Tobechukwu featuring Mercy Chinwo and Yahweh Sabaoth continue to resonate widely with listeners.

Other gospel stars are also making waves. Mercy Chinwo recorded 46.4 million streams on YouTube Music, with her evergreen hit Excess Love surpassing 133 million total plays.

Similarly, Moses Bliss achieved 41.5 million streams, with popular songs like E Dey Flow drawing significant engagement.

These numbers underscore the growing influence of gospel music, both within Nigeria and globally.

The massive digital traction affirms the genre’s deep emotional and spiritual impact, connecting with millions who find strength, joy, and inspiration through its messages.

The success of Nathaniel Bassey, Mercy Chinwo, Moses Bliss, and other gospel artists highlights not only the global appeal of Nigerian gospel but also the enduring power of music to uplift, unite, and spread faith in a digital age.