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UK court sentences Congolese to life for killing Nigerian

A 28-year-old man has been sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 20 years for murdering his Nigerian roommate in a “violent and unprovoked attack” in Norwich, United Kingdom.

In a report by BBC, sighted by our correspondent Online yesterday, Benjamin Katabana was convicted of murdering 33-year-old Uchenna Okirie, a former University of East Anglia economics student, after luring him into the communal corridor of their shared accommodation with WhatsApp messages.

The attack happened at Somerleyton House on Somerleyton Street, Norwich, on November 22.

According to Norfolk Constabulary, Okirie, popularly known as Uche, was using his phone when Katabana attacked him with a knife.

Katabana initially stabbed Okirie once before repeatedly attacking him and kicking him in the head while he lay on the floor.

Okirie was pronounced dead at the scene shortly after 6am. A post-mortem examination found that he died from a stab wound to the chest.

CCTV footage captured the two men meeting in the corridor shortly before the attack.

After the killing, Katabana activated the building’s fire alarm and walked to Bethel Street Police Station, where he surrendered to officers.

He reportedly told police: “I have killed someone, I think.”

The murder weapon was never recovered, while Katabana declined to explain his actions during police interviews, repeatedly responding “no comment”.

At Norwich Crown Court, Katabana had pleaded guilty to manslaughter on the grounds of diminished responsibility but was subsequently convicted of murder by a jury.

Judge Bate sentenced him to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 20 years.

The judge noted that Katabana had five previous convictions for seven offences, including an earlier incident in which he kicked someone in the head while they were lying on the floor following an assault.

“You act impulsively and resolve issues through violence,” the judge told him.

Katabana’s defence argued that his actions were linked to a traumatic upbringing in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

However, the court heard that he had already armed himself with a knife before contacting Okirie and arranging to meet him.

Senior investigating officer Alix Wright of Norfolk Police described the killing as a deliberate attack.

“This was a violent and unprovoked attack,” Wright said.

“Benjamin Katabana deliberately lured Mr Okirie into the corridor through WhatsApp messages where he intended to meet him, having already armed himself with a knife.”

She added that the police’s thoughts remained with Okirie’s family and expressed hope that the conviction would provide them with “a measure of justice” for their loss.

Okirie, who was 33 at the time of his death, was a graduate of the University of East Anglia, where he studied economics.

The court heard that the attack took place inside the building where Okirie lived and that he was taken by surprise when Katabana confronted him.

Katabana was therefore, handed a life sentence and will serve at least 20 years in prison before he can be considered for release.

I’ll restore fuel subsidy if elected president in 2027–Sowore

Presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), Omoyele Sowore, has said he would restore fuel subsidy if elected president in the 2027 general elections.

Sowore argued that contrary to the federal government’s claim that fuel subsidy has been removed, the government is still subsidising petrol but has simply changed the name attached to the policy.

He also accused the government of secretly subsidising the naira through measures aimed at supporting the currency’s value against the dollar.

Sowore made the remarks yesterday while speaking on ARISE News, where he outlined what he described as an alternative approach to tackling Nigeria’s economic crisis.

Responding to questions on whether he would reintroduce fuel subsidy if elected, Sowore said the argument that subsidy had been completely removed was misleading.

“In the first place, they are still paying subsidy. They’re just changing the name of what they call it,” he said.

According to him, the government is subsidising petrol because Nigeria does not produce enough locally, while also supporting the naira through interventions in the foreign exchange market.

“They are subsidising not only petrol, because they don’t have enough and they can’t produce locally. They’re also subsidising the Naira,” Sowore said.

He argued that the government had failed to be transparent about the measures being used to support the naira, insisting that the exchange rate was being influenced through what he described as a hidden subsidy.

“That’s one thing they will never tell you. The reason the Naira is at a certain rate to a dollar is because it’s been quietly and secretly subsidised,” he said.

Sowore acknowledged that countries routinely take measures to defend their currencies but questioned why the government would deny that such interventions amounted to subsidy.

He also defended the principle of subsidies, arguing that the problem in Nigeria was not necessarily subsidy itself but the manner in which public resources were distributed.

“There’s no country in the world that don’t subsidise their poor,” he said, adding that wealthy Nigerians and businesses were benefiting more from government incentives than ordinary citizens.

According to him, importers and businesses benefiting from customs waivers were receiving a form of subsidy that was significantly more valuable than the relief previously enjoyed by consumers through cheaper petrol.

“In fact, the people that get the most subsidy in Nigeria is not the poor, it’s the rich,” Sowore said.

He further argued that the removal of fuel subsidy had contributed to the worsening economic conditions in the country, particularly through its impact on the naira and household purchasing power.

“You saw what happened, immediately you remove subsidy. Look at where your economy tanked. Your Naira also went down the toilet,” he said.

Sowore said that if elected, his administration would seek to move away from what he described as economic policies that had normalised poverty in Nigeria.

He said the country needed to abandon the “old mentality” responsible for policies that had made poverty increasingly widespread.

“There’s no need for us to sit down here and ask, ‘Oh, what would you do differently?’ Of course, what we have to do differently, first and foremost, is to get rid of this old mentality and the ideas that brought poverty to become a standard, you know, a household name in Nigeria,” he said.

The AAC candidate also expressed concern over Nigeria’s food security situation, citing the Food and Agriculture Organization’s assessment of countries facing food shortages.

He said it was particularly troubling that Nigeria, despite being a major oil-producing country, was among countries identified as facing food insecurity.

“That is to say we are so bad and we are about the only country producing oil that is on FAO’s list of countries that has food shortages. That’s the country we are in,” Sowore said.

He accused the government of focusing more on the public image of its economic policies than their impact on ordinary Nigerians.

“But they don’t want to tell you all this because it’s all about the optics. But optics don’t feed people,” he added.

Salary increase: Ensure direct transfer of funds for military –Ndume tells Tinubu

Borno South senator, Ali Ndume, has called on President Bola Tinubu to ensure direct transfer of funds for the Nigerian military in the recent approval of a salary increase for the Armed Forces.

Ndume, a one time Chairman of the Senate Committee on Army, made this call yesterday in a statement, stating that the salary review shows that the President has a clear plan to tackle insecurity.

It would be recaledl that the President last week approved a salary increment for about 250,000 personnel of the Nigerian Armed Forces.

Reacting, the lawmaker said, “The President should ensure direct transfer of these funds for the military. This coming after his recent expansion of military divisions from eight to 12 shows that Mr President has his own blueprint aimed at dealing with the scourge of terrorism and banditry.

“The review of salary will go a long way in motivating our military personnel. I have been in the vanguard of better motivation for our men and officers in the military in terms of a decent living wage.

“President Tinubu has once again proved that he is a responsive leader who doesn’t shut his mind to genuine and legitimate agitation of Nigerians,” he said.

However, the Borno South senator noted that better pay alone will not win the war against insurgency, urging the government to also ensure prompt supply of arms, ammunition and other logistics.

ASUU gives 21 varsities 14 days to implement 2025 agreement

The Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) has issued a 14-day ultimatum to 21 universities over the non-implementation of the 2025 Federal Government-ASUU agreement.

The Union warned that affected institutions could face industrial action if their demands are not addressed.

The decision was taken at the Union’s National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held at the University of Abuja on Saturday, 8 and Sunday, 9 August 2026.

In a statement containing the resolutions of the meeting and signed by ASUU President, Professor Christopher Piwuna, which was obtained by our correspondent, the Union said NEC expressed concern over the haphazard implementation and lackadaisical attitude of the Federal Government” towards the 2025 agreement.

ASUU also criticised the failure of visitors to several state-owned universities to implement the agreement, saying the situation had compelled affected branches to seek approval to commence industrial action procedures.

The universities given the 14-day ultimatum are: Nasarawa State University, Keffi; Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai; University of Medical Sciences, Ondo; Gombe State University; Plateau State University, Bokkos; Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba; Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma; Olusegun Agagu University of Science and Technology, Okitipupa; Abia State University, Uturu; University of Education and Entrepreneurship, Akamkpa; Emmanuel Alayande University of Education, Oyo.

Others are: Kaduna State University; Aliko Dangote University of Science and Technology, Wudil; Northwest University, Kano; Enugu State University of Science and Technology; Imo State University, Owerri; Niger Delta University, Wilberforce Island; University of Africa, Toru-Orua; Bayelsa Medical University, Yenagoa; and Taraba State University, Jalingo.

The Union said, “Permission be granted to the following branches that have approached NEC for action, to institute the procedures to embark on strike to press home their demands. This is to be preceded by the issuance of a 14-day ultimatum,” the Union said.

According to ASUU, the affected branches are expected to embark on a strike if their demands remain unresolved after the ultimatum expires.

The Union also noted that branches within the Sokoto Zone had already issued a two-week ultimatum. At the same time, an emergency NEC meeting would be convened at the end of August or early September 2026 to review the situation and take further decisions.

ASUU further reaffirmed its earlier “No-pay-No-work” position, which allows branches to take action where salaries are not paid by the third day of the following month.

“Branches in Federal Universities whose salaries were underpaid, including Universities of Agriculture, were mandated to take action to press home their demands,” the Union added.

ASUU also reaffirmed its position, rejecting the National Education Repository Databank (NERD), until concerns regarding its hosting and intellectual property rights are clarified.

On national affairs, NEC encouraged members to participate in the political process and approved the establishment of an ASUU Independent Monitoring Group to monitor and observe elections in Nigeria.

“Going forward, the Union will set up an ASUU Independent Monitoring Group to monitor/observe the conduct of elections in Nigeria,” the resolution stated.

The Union also expressed serious concern over insecurity on university campuses, particularly incidents that had resulted in the deaths of its members.

It directed affected branches to pursue justice for victims by engaging the police and other security agencies, while also compiling records of such incidents for presentation to the NEC.

NPC laments, says 60% of births in Nigeria go unregistered

The National Population Commission (NPC), has raised the alarm over Nigeria’s birth registration data, noting that 60% of births in the country go registered.

NPC chairman, Dr Aminu Yusuf, disclosed this in Abuja, at a media briefing to commemorate the 2026 Africa Civil Registration and Vital Statistics (CRVS) Day.

Yusuf said more than five million children are born in Nigeria annually, stressing the need to bring civil registration services closer to communities. Africans& Diaspora

“According to the most recent Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey, only about 40 per cent of births are registered, while death registration coverage remains unacceptably low,” he said.

He said the situation required stronger partnerships, sustained public awareness and increased community participation to improve registration coverage.

According to him, every birth, death and other vital event must be captured in the electronic Civil Registration and Vital Statistics system to enable Nigeria develop a complete and reliable national database.

Yusuf said Nigeria’s transition to a fully digital CRVS system on July 1, 2026, through the VitalReg platform, marked the end of manual registration and a major shift in how vital events are recorded.

He said the digital system had improved the security, efficiency, reliability and accessibility of civil registration, while reducing duplication through automated verification and unique identifiers.

The NPC chairman added that the system would enable government to generate vital statistics more quickly, providing reliable demographic data for national planning, resource allocation, infrastructure development and social protection programmes.

He, however, stressed that technology alone would not close the registration gap, noting that the Commission was pursuing decentralisation and partnerships to take services to Nigerians at the grassroots. Africans& Diaspora

Yusuf disclosed that the Commission entered into a Partnership Compact Agreement in January 2025 with the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), UNICEF and Bankforte Technologies Limited to decentralise civil registration, improve interoperability and expand access to digital registration.

He said the NPC was also working with the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), state governments and health institutions to integrate birth registration into routine health services, allowing children to be registered as close as possible to the point of birth.

The Commission, he added, currently has more than 4,000 functional registration centres across the 774 local government areas and is expanding the network to approximately 8,000 centres nationwide.

The expansion, combined with the VitalReg platform, would reduce the distance, cost and delays associated with registration and help prevent children and other vital events from being left outside the national database.

Yusuf called on state and local governments, traditional and religious institutions, health facilities, civil society organisations, development partners and the private sector to support the reform.

He also urged the media to intensify public enlightenment on the importance of birth and death registration, stressing that civil registration goes beyond a legal requirement.

“Civil registration is not merely a legal obligation but the foundation of legal identity, access to services, the protection of rights and national development,” Yusuf said.

 

Police, EFCC, NSCDC deploy 25,310 personnel for Osun governorship election

Security agencies in the country, including the police, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), have deployed 25,310 operatives for the Osun State governorship election holding on Saturday.

The deployment comprises 15,000 police officers, 10,210 NSCDC personnel and about 100 EFCC officers, according to separate announcements by the agencies.

This is outside the numbers that are also expected to be deployed by other security agencies like the military and the Department of State Services (DSS).

Fourteen political parties are contesting the August 15, 2026 governorship election, with 2,339,233 registers voters.

Among the candidates, three have emerged as prominent contenders based on their political strength and visibility: incumbent Governor Ademola Adeleke of the Accord Party, Bola Oyebamiji of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Najeem Salam of the African Democratic Congress (ADC). LegislativeBranch

On Monday, the NSCDC Commandant-General, Prof. Abubakar Audi, ordered the deployment of 10,000 personnel from 10 neighbouring state commands to reinforce security operations across Osun.

The personnel are being drawn from the Oyo, Ondo, Ekiti, Ogun, Lagos, Kwara, Edo, Kogi, Delta and Federal Capital Territory commands, with about 1,000 personnel from each command.

The deployment will complement the corps’ existing personnel in Osun and cover the state’s 30 local government areas, including polling units, electoral officials, observers, journalists and residents.

NSCDC spokesman, Afolabi Babawale, said specialised units, including the Commandant-General’s Special Intelligence Squad, Special Weapons and Tactics Unit, Specialised Female Squad, Mining Marshals, Special Strike Force, Crack Squad and K9 Unit, had also been deployed.

He said the units would support intelligence gathering, crime prevention, protection of critical infrastructure, crowd control and other election-related operations.

The NSCDC said its Deputy Commandant-General in charge of Operations, Ayuba Phillip, alongside designated Assistant Commandant-Generals and other senior officers, would relocate to Osun to supervise the corps’ election security operations.

Audi charged personnel to remain professional, neutral and respectful of citizens’ rights throughout the election.

He said, “our personnel have been properly briefed on the need to be professional, neutral and respectful in the discharge of their duties.”

The NSCDC boss also warned political thugs and others planning to disrupt the election that they would face the law.

“The NSCDC in collaboration with other security agencies on election duty will not tolerate any activity intended to jeopardise the election process; criminal-minded persons and political thugs willing to disrupt the peaceful conduct of the election would face the wrath of the law as prescribed in the Electoral Act.”

The Nigeria Police Force had earlier announced the deployment of 15,000 personnel to Osun for the election, including officers to be stationed at polling units and other strategic locations. Africans& Diaspora

Similarly, a senior EFCC official revealed that about 100 personnel would be deployed to the state to prevent vote buying and other forms of electoral inducement.

“Please forgive us,” NFF begs Tinubu, Nigerians over Super Falcons’ WAFCON loss

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), has apologised to President Bola Tinubu and Nigerians following the Super Falcons’ failure to secure direct qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

The NFF President, Ibrahim Gusau, tendered the apology on behalf of the federation, the Super Falcons and the entire Nigerian football family in a statement issued yesterday.

Mr Gusau said the federation recognised the disappointment caused to millions of Nigerians who passionately supported the team throughout the ongoing Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), in Morocco.

He acknowledged the federal government’s support for the Super Falcons, particularly the recognition and rewards given to the team following their previous WAFCON triumph.

“We wish to extend a special and heartfelt apology to His Excellency, the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Federal Republic, Bola Tinubu, for this disappointment.

“It is with genuine humility and regret that we acknowledge that we have not been able to repay that confidence with the outcome expected at this stage,” Mr Gusau said.

He also, apologised to the National Assembly, National Sports Commission (NSC), sponsors, stakeholders and millions of Nigerian supporters at home and abroad for the disappointing outcome.

The NFF president, however, said the Super Falcons still had an opportunity to qualify for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup through the CAF play-off pathway.

“A window of opportunity remains through the CAF play-off pathway, and the Super Falcons are determined to fight for one of the two available CAF play-off tickets,” he said.

Mr Gusau said the NFF, technical team and players remained committed to securing Nigeria’s place at the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup through the available qualification routes.

“The NFF will also undertake an honest assessment of our preparation, technical planning, logistics and overall operations, with a determination to identify areas requiring improvement.

“We hear the disappointment of Nigerians, we share it, and we accept our responsibility. But we are not giving up,” he added.

2027 Polls: NHRC asks FG to arrest, prosecute Sheikh Jingir for hate speech

Ahead of the 2027 general elections, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), yesterday, urged the Federal Government to immediately arrest and prosecute Islamic cleric, Sheikh Yahaya Jingir, for hate speech and incitement.

The Commission, in a statement signed by its Executive Secretary, Chief Tony Ojukwu, SAN, said it condemned in strong terms “the hateful and inciting remarks” it said were made by the cleric in a viral video on Sunday.

The NHRC said it watched with grave concern as the cleric openly canvassed for religiously exclusive politics ahead of the general elections and used derogatory language referring to “infidels” while urging supporters to obtain voter cards to “show their limit.”

The rights body described the statements as a direct attack on the principles of equality, non-discrimination, and peaceful coexistence guaranteed under the 1999 Constitution, as amended, and Nigeria’s international human rights obligations.

“The Commission finds these remarks to be hate speech and incitement to religious hatred and potential violence. At a time when we are preparing for another general election, such utterances are reckless and dangerous.

“They serve no purpose other than to divide Nigerians along religious lines and set citizens against one another.

“We cannot afford to look away. If we fail to speak and act now, we embolden both Christian and Muslim clerics and other influential persons to make worse statements in the coming months. That path leads only to crisis,” the Commission stated.

Consequently, it called on the Inspector General of Police, the Director General of the Department of State Services, and other relevant authorities to immediately arrest and prosecute Sheikh Jingir for hate speech and incitement.

The Commission implored religious leaders, traditional rulers, and politicians to refrain from divisive rhetoric, even as it urged Nigerians to reject identity politics and to hold leaders accountable based on competence, service delivery, and respect for human rights.

“Prosecution must proceed irrespective of status or political affiliation in order to serve as a deterrent to others who may seek to exploit religion for political gain during this election period.

“The Commission will continue to monitor compliance and will engage with security agencies, INEC, and civil society to ensure that the 2027 elections are free from hate and violence,” the statement further read.

2027: Atiku raises concern over outdated BVAS

Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, has raised concerns over the alleged use of an outdated operating system on the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS), warning that it could pose cybersecurity and operational risks ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Atiku, the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), raised the concerns following the reported failures recorded during the Osun State mock accreditation exercise on August 1, 2026, and comments by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Director of ICT, Dr Lawrence Bayode.

Bayode, while speaking on Arise TV on Monday, reportedly said the BVAS, introduced into Nigeria’s electoral process in 2021, currently runs on Android version 10.

In a statement issued by his Media Office in Abuja, yesterday, Atiku said Android version 10 had reached end-of-life status in 2023 and no longer receives regular updates or security patches.

He argued that running an election technology platform such as BVAS on an outdated operating system, could expose the electoral process to cybersecurity and operational vulnerabilities.

Atiku questioned why INEC, with what he described as its substantial budget, had not upgraded the BVAS software ahead of the 2027 general elections or used forthcoming off-cycle elections, including the Osun governorship election, to test an updated version.

He described what he called INEC’s handling of the BVAS issue as “suspicious” and alleged that it could undermine the integrity of the country’s elections.

According to him, vulnerabilities in an outdated operating system could potentially be exploited by cybercriminals to gain unauthorised access to devices and tamper with stored voter accreditation or polling unit result data before transmission.

He also raised concerns about the transmission of polling unit results over public telecommunications networks to the INEC Result Viewing (IReV), portal.

Atiku said outdated security and cryptographic components could increase exposure to cyber threats, including attempts to intercept, block or manipulate data transmitted between polling units and the result-viewing platform.

The former Vice President further expressed concern about the biometric functions of BVAS, which uses fingerprint and facial recognition for voter accreditation.

He argued that an outdated biometric framework could affect the system’s accuracy and resilience against attempts to circumvent its verification processes.

Atiku also warned that software defects associated with legacy systems could lead to application crashes, particularly during periods of heavy usage, potentially causing delays in voter accreditation.

He said he supported calls by cybersecurity experts for an independent and comprehensive audit of the BVAS hardware and software ahead of the 2027 elections.

According to him, running critical national infrastructure on an end-of-life operating system could create an expanded attack surface and expose the electoral system to avoidable risks.

The statement was signed by the Atiku Media Office, Abuja, on August 11, 2026.

Abia APC condemns Kalu, Nkwonta over pro-Otti comments, demands public apology

From Henrietta Ashikodi, Umuahia 

The All Progressives Congress, (APC), Abia State Chapter, has strongly condemned statements credited to Senator Orji Uzor Kalu and Hon. Chris Nkwonta endorsing Governor Alex Otti for the 2027 governorship election.

The party described their actions as unstatesmanlike, irresponsible, embarrassing, and inimical to the unity, cohesion, and electoral prospects of the APC in the state.

This was contained in a communiqué unanimously adopted and signed by 17 members of the Abia State Working Committee, (SWC), present at the meeting.

The signatories include: Hon. Chijioke Chukwu – Chairman; Chief Chinedu Ihesiulo – Deputy Chairman; Chief Chidi Avajah – Secretary; Comrade Ben Godson – Assistant Secretary; Lady C. C. Erondu, JP – Woman Leader; Lolo Josephine Chukwu – Deputy Woman Leader; Prince Tony Egbulefu – Senatorial Chairman, Central; Sir Justice Onwumelu – Senatorial Chairman, South; Chief Ebere Nwachukwu – Welfare Secretary; Darlington Ujoumunna – Financial Secretary; John Ajuzieogu – Treasurer; Chief Jerry Awah – Youth Leader; Hon. Mike Ukoha – Special Leader; Chief Emma Nwauhiara – Auditor; Barr. Emeka Okorafor – Organizing Secretary; Barr. Vigilius Nwankwo – Legal Adviser; and Uche Aguoru – Publicity Secretary.

According to the Communiqué, the SWC, in a meeting held on Monday, August 10, 2026, extensively deliberated on recent public statements and actions attributed to two prominent members and leaders of the party, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu and Hon. Chris Nkwonta, concerning the 2027 Abia State Governorship Election.

After exhaustive deliberations, the State Working Committee unanimously and unequivocally condemned, in its entirety, the said statements and actions as unstatesmanlike, irresponsible, embarrassing, and inimical to the unity, cohesion, and electoral prospects of the All Progressives Congress in Abia State.

The SWC expressed concern that at a time when the party is mobilizing its members and supporters across the 184 wards of Abia State towards total electoral victory in 2027, statements capable of undermining the confidence of members and supporters, while openly projecting support for a rival political party, are not only regrettable but constitute a serious breach of party loyalty.

The Committee noted with grave concern that Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, in an interview on a national television station, was reported to have declared that “Governor Otti of the Labour Party will win the governorship election.”

Similarly, the SWC expressed deep disappointment over the conduct of Hon. Chris Nkwonta, who, in the presence of the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, publicly stated that he would vote for Governor Alex Otti of the Labour Party in the 2027 governorship election.

The SWC considered these actions particularly disturbing because, they were made by individuals regarded as leaders and prominent members of the APC in Abia State.

Such public declarations, in the view of the State Working Committee, amount to acts of internal sabotage and anti-party conduct intended to weaken the party’s electoral machinery and demoralize its teeming members.

“The APC is a political party governed by its constitution, rules, and regulations. No individual, regardless of status, position, influence, or past contribution to the party, is above the Constitution of the party,” the communiqué stated.

Accordingly, the SWC held that the actions of Senator Kalu and Hon. Nkwonta constitute anti-party activities and a clear breach of Article 21.2(11) of the Constitution of the All Progressives Congress, 2022, which provides for disciplinary action against members whose conduct is inimical to the party or amounts to acts of indiscipline and disloyalty.

After due consideration, the Abia State Working Committee resolved as follows:

That it strongly condemns the statements and actions attributed to Senator Orji Uzor Kalu and Hon. Chris Nkwonta as unacceptable, irresponsible, unstatesmanlike, and inimical to the collective interest of the APC in Abia State.  It calls on both Senator Kalu and Hon. Nkwonta to tender an unreserved public apology to the APC, its leadership, members, and supporters in Abia State within 14 days from the date of this communiqué.

That the apology must clearly demonstrate their commitment to the party, its Constitution, its leadership, and the collective decision of the APC to present and support all its candidates in the 2027 general elections, especially the governorship candidate.

That failure by either of the two individuals to comply within the stipulated 14 days will leave the party with no option but to constitute a disciplinary committee to investigate the circumstances surrounding their statements and actions and make appropriate recommendations to the competent organs of the party.   Where found liable, the party shall apply disciplinary measures as prescribed by the APC Constitution and other applicable party regulations, without fear or favour, irrespective of the status of the individuals concerned.

The SWC further resolved that the party would withdraw its political support and privileges from any of the individuals if their conduct is established to be inimical to the party’s interest ahead of the 2027 general elections.

That the Abia APC remains fully committed to the collective decision of its members and organs to strengthen the party, support its candidates, and work tirelessly towards winning the 2027 general elections and taking over the governance of Abia State.

The SWC stated that the APC is bigger than any individual, regardless of political stature. It added that leadership comes with responsibility, and those entrusted with leading a political party must uphold its values, defend its interests, and respect its decisions.

“The party will not permit personal interests, political calculations, or individual ambitions to undermine the collective aspirations of our members and supporters across Abia State.

“At this critical stage of our preparations for the 2027 elections, all members, especially those in leadership positions, are expected to demonstrate discipline, loyalty, restraint, and commitment to the party,” it stated.

The Abia APC urged all its members to remain calm, focused, and united, assuring them that the party will deploy all legitimate political and organizational mechanisms to protect its integrity, defend its interests, and win the governorship and all legislative seats, both federal and state, in 2027.

Imo APC begs IMSU ASUU to rescind its decision indefinite strike

The All Progressives Congress (APC) Imo State, has appealed to the leadership of Academic Staff Union Universities (ASUU), Imo State University chapter, to rescind its decision on indefinite strike.

The appeal was contained in a Statement issued in Owerri by the   State Publicity Secretary, Mr. Onwuasoanya Jones. The party said it noted with disappointment, the unfortunate industrial action, embarked upon by the leadership of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), Imo State University Chapter, which has led to the disruption of scheduled examination by the University, and shutting down of academic activities in the University.

The statement said:”While the party recognises and respects the rights of labour unions,  to use legitimate industrial strategies to attract the attention of government to issues affecting its members.

We wish to advise the union that it might not have exhausted all the avenues for the peaceful resolution of its demands with the state government. Fundamentally,  we plead with them to consider the academic future of our beloved innocent children.”

“The union might need to recall that the APC-led administration of His Excellency, Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma, CON, has been a very friendly administration to all labour unions in the state, which has earned him several accolades from the Organised Labour, which includes the; Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Nigerian Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE)culminating in his recognition with the enviable Pacesetter Award, which celebrates his outstanding support and undisputable generosity to workers in Imo state,  including,  paying the highest minimum wage in the country, among other worker- friendly policies.”

Imo State APC continued: “The Party does not disregard the ASUU’s demand as inappropriate,  but wishes to draw the attention of our Comrades to the fact that, out of the over 63 State Universities in the country, only about six states have either, begun the process of implementing this agreement, or have fully implemented same. Consequently,  about 90% of states are yet to implement this agreement. We assure them that they shall get all that is due to them, in due course.”

“We understand that due to the governor’s known pro-labour biases, the ASUU-IMSU expected that they would be among the first to benefit from this APC-led Federal Government initiative.  However, our Comrades must understand that, our governor will always have their best interests at heart. Imo will certainly not be left behind in anything good, especially,  when it has to do with workers’ welfare and the educational advancement of our children.

The party, therefore, pleads with the leadership and members of ASUU-IMSU, to return to the classroom, conclude the conduct of the scheduled examination,  while they continue in negotiations with the state government, to ensure a mutually beneficial resolution of all outstanding issues that led to the strike.”

“We assure our dear ASUU-IMSU Comrades of the party’s unwavering support and solidarity with them, in their undeniable commitment to the education and training of our great Imo stars.”

Woman allegedly stabs husband to death in Abia

A woman identified as Sarah Nwaorji has allegedly stabbed her husband, Innocent Nwaorji, to death in Aba, Abia State.

The couple, who hail from Amaise Umuokereke-Ngwa community in Obingwa Local Government Area, reportedly resided around the Seven-Up Company area of Aba North Local Government Area, where the incident occurred. It was gathered that the couple had an argument in their apartment last Friday.

A neighbour, who pleaded anonymity, said he was alerted to the incident at about 10pm on Sunday.

“I was alerted that Sarah had stabbed her husband,” the neighbour said.

Sources said the couple got married in December 2025 and had yet to have a child.

Friends and associates of the deceased reportedly described him as an easy-going person, expressing shock over the incident and wondering what could have led to the altercation.

One of the residents said: “The couple only wedded last December. The marriage was yet to produce a child. Innocent was an easy-going person. What we heard was that the couple had a disagreement last Friday and his wife allegedly stabbed him to death at about 10pm on Sunday.”

The deceased’s body has reportedly been deposited at an undisclosed mortuary in Aba, while the suspect is said to be in police custody.

When contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer, Abia State Command, DSP Maureen Chinaka, did not respond to calls or a text message sent to her phone as of the time of filing this report.

Alleged N27trn Deals: Atiku challenges Tinubu to publish procurement details

Presidential Candidate of the African Democratic Congress ADC, Atiku Abubakar, has demanded that President Bola Tinubu explains the disturbing questions reportedly raised by The Economist over about $20 billion worth of projects linked to his long-time associate, Gilbert Chagoury.

Atiku in a statement yesterday by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, said the reported revelations have elevated concerns about the Tinubu administration’s procurement practices from domestic suspicion to an international credibility crisis.

“At prevailing exchange rates, $20 billion is approximately ₦27 trillion. Nigerians deserve to know how projects of such staggering value became concentrated around businesses linked to one man who happens to be a close associate of the President.

“This is not pocket change. This is an amount approaching the scale of entire national budgets. Nigerians cannot be asked to tighten their belts while those around the President appear to be tightening their grip on some of the biggest contracts in the country,” Atiku said.

He said the Presidency must respond specifically to the issues reportedly raised by The Economist concerning procurement, taxation and the relationship between political proximity and access to major government projects.

“The questions are simple: Who awarded these contracts? Were they competitively tendered? What tax concessions, waivers or privileges were granted? Who are the ultimate beneficial owners? And why does the same presidential associate keep appearing around projects worth billions of dollars?

“President Tinubu cannot answer every allegation of corruption and cronyism by deploying presidential spokesmen to abuse critics. The Economist is not an opposition party. It is not on the ballot in 2027. The President should answer the questions it has raised,” he said.

Atiku said the controversy strikes at the heart of the administration’s credibility because Nigerians are simultaneously being subjected to higher taxes, soaring living costs and unprecedented economic hardship in the name of sacrifice.

The former Vice President therefore challenged the Presidency to publish the procurement details, ownership structures, tax concessions and other relevant information concerning the projects reportedly identified by The Economist.

“Nigeria is a republic, not a friends-and-family investment portfolio. ₦27 trillion demands answers. President Tinubu must provide them.”

Tinubu treks to office, eats once daily — NRS boss

The Executive Chairman of the Nigeria Revenue Service, Zacch Adedeji, has dismissed concerns over the alleged lavish lifestyles of public officials.

Adedeji said President Bola Tinubu does not live extravagantly despite his position.

He stated this during an interview with Channels Television, on Sunday, where he was questioned by journalist Seun Okinbaloye about the lifestyles of political office holders amid the economic challenges confronting Nigerians.

The discussion came amid public debate over government spending and the lifestyles of political leaders, particularly as Nigerians continue to contend with rising living costs and economic pressures.

Responding to questions about the President’s movements and reported use of luxury vehicles, Adedeji claimed that Tinubu usually walks from his residence to his office and only uses a vehicle when travelling to the airport.

He also said the President eats only once daily and had not travelled outside Nigeria in the past three months.

When asked about the number of Escalades reportedly attached to Tinubu’s convoy, Adedeji challenged the premise of the question, arguing that the President could afford such vehicles.

He said, “Mr President goes from home to office on foot, not even driving except when he is going to the airport. I don’t know where you see the convoy. Before he became president, what is he riding?

“How much is an Escalade that the president of Nigeria cannot afford? Please don’t embarrass this country.

“What is living large? In the last months, he has not even left the shores of this country, trekking and working. If you go there now, you will see him review one document or the other.

“So what is living large? The president eats once in a day. How many parties have you seen him at in the last three years? Tell me where you have seen him, whether on holiday or anywhere?”

2027: I’m not lobbying for APC campaign DG – Wike

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Nyesom Wike, has dismissed reports suggesting that he is seeking the position of Director-General of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Presidential Campaign Council ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Wike, while rejecting the claim, reaffirmed his commitment to President Bola Tinubu’s bid for a second term, stressing that holding a position in the campaign council was not necessary for him to contribute to the President’s electoral success.

The reports had named the FCT minister among senior APC figures and government officials allegedly interested in the campaign council’s top position or being considered for the role.

Wike, however, described the reports as untrue.

In a statement issued yesterday by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka, the minister said he had neither lobbied for the position nor held discussions with anyone regarding membership or leadership of the proposed campaign council.

Explaining his current activities, Wike said he was outside the country taking a break after an extensive period of official engagements in the FCT.

“I am outside Nigeria, resting and relaxing after spending over 30 days, commissioning projects, flagging off new ones and inspecting ongoing ones, especially those scheduled for commissioning in December and January, next year.

“When I return, our focus will be the continuous delivery of our mandate in line with the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda and to further enhance his electoral fortune in Rivers State and the FCT.

“Therefore, I do not need to be the DG or even member of the Presidential Campaign Council of Mr President’s political party to contribute my quota by ensuring that he wins handsomely in Rivers State and the FCT,” the statement read.

Management and staff of IMOSACA celebrate their DG’s birthday in grand style

The Management and staff of Imo State Agency for the Control of HIV/AIDS (IMOSACA)

recently rolled out the drums to celebrate the birthday of Director-General of the Agency, Dr. Chidinma Okoro in a grand style. The birthday celebration, which took place in her office at IMOSACA premises, on August 4, 2026, was another way of identifying with their own.

In a statement issue by the Management of IMOSACA, Dr. Chidinma was described as a “legend, born into a great family in Imo state”

They also described the celebrant as a blessing to Imo State, especially, the health sector.

Overwhelmed with joy, the management and staff offered prayers for her longer life, prosperity, good health, God’s protection and more grace. The event attracted personalities, which included; the Director, Public Health Laboratory, State Cordinator, Nephan and staff of World Health Organization.

 ‘South Africa safe to travel to’ – Consul-General assures Nigerians

South Africa’s Consul-General in Nigeria, Prof. Bobby Moroe, has assured Nigerians that the country remains safe for tourism, business and other forms of travel.

Moroe gave the assurance during an interview on Nigeria Info FM while responding to concerns among some Nigerians about travelling to South Africa, particularly because of reports and content circulating on social media.

The Consul-General said South Africa remains open to Nigerian visitors and dismissed claims that South African missions in Nigeria had stopped issuing visas to Nigerians.

“I just want to give reassurance that South Africa is open for business, South Africa is open for tourism, and South Africa is open for any other form of visit.”

Moroe also described as untrue claims that South African missions in Nigeria no longer issue visas to Nigerians.

He encouraged Nigerians planning to visit South Africa to obtain the necessary visa before travelling and comply with the country’s immigration laws.

“And it is also untrue to suggest that South African missions in Nigeria do not offer visas to Nigerians anymore.”

“I want to give assurance to Nigerians that it is safe to travel to South Africa. It is everybody’s responsibility to ensure that before you travel, you ensure that you have your visa, you comply with the immigration laws of the country, you become a good ambassador of your country.”

Moroe advised Nigerian visitors to familiarise themselves with South African laws and understand their rights while in the country.

“When you get to South Africa, you know and understand your rights, but you must also familiarize yourself with the laws of the country.”

He further advised travellers to be familiar with their surroundings and know the locations of law enforcement agencies in case they need assistance.

“And like any other person, you. You choose places that you want to visit. Not to suggest that there are certain places that are not, but we all visit certain places and ensure that you also are familiar with the location of law enforcement agencies, just in case something happens.”

According to Moroe, the number of visa applications from Nigerians has almost doubled, which he said reflects continued interest in visiting South Africa.

He said the South African mission remains confident that Nigerians will continue to visit the country for different purposes.

“But I can assure you and the listeners, that it is safe to travel to South Africa. I indicated during the beginning of the show that the number of visa applications have almost doubled.”

“So we are quite comfortable. And we have no doubt that a lot of Nigerians who still want to visit South Africa, for whatever reason can still go there.”

Coup: I acted out of patriotism, frustration with Nigeria — Colonel Ma’aji

A Nigerian Army Colonel, Mohammed Ma’aji, accused of involvement in an alleged plot to overthrow the government of President Bola Tinubu, has said his actions were driven by patriotism and frustration over what he described as worsening conditions in the country.

Ma’aji, in a statement made available yesterday, apologised for his involvement in the alleged plot and appealed to the authorities for leniency, insisting that his motive was not personal ambition but a desire for a better Nigeria.

He said the alleged plan emerged from concerns among some military personnel over poor governance, insecurity, inadequate welfare and declining living standards.

According to him, the situation had become so troubling that he feared the country was heading towards collapse.

Ma’aji said: “What has happened has a very long history, and it is driven by patriotism, and I love the job and country.

“Every time I look at how I’m struggling to raise five children with my meagre salary, I get worried. Looking at every aspect of life in Nigeria, there is no hope for the common man, and we are left to defend ourselves.

“This has nothing to do with any ambition or personal goals. It is purely out of the desire for a prosperous country that works for everyone.”

He alleged that military personnel were particularly affected by inadequate welfare, citing the condition of soldiers wounded in combat and the challenges facing serving personnel and their families.

The colonel said the alleged movement was still at a stage of mobilisation and discussions when security authorities intervened, adding that no specific date had been agreed for any action.

He also denied that there were foreign collaborators, while explaining that various individuals became involved at different stages of the discussions.

Ma’aji said some of those approached expressed concerns about the state of the country, while others withdrew or failed to provide the resources they had initially promised.

He further said the alleged plot was fuelled by what he described as frustrations over his failure to secure promotion to the rank of brigadier-general on two occasions.

According to him, some of his colleagues had encouraged him to revive the movement after the second setback.

The colonel, however, said his experience following his arrest had changed his perspective and made him realise that there were alternative ways of expressing concerns within the military.

“If God willing, the authority is kind enough to pardon us, we will never contemplate this course of action again in the future,” he said.

Ma’aji called for the establishment of a formal channel through which military personnel could communicate their concerns directly to the Chief of Army Staff without fear of victimisation.

He also recommended improved remuneration and welfare packages for members of the Armed Forces, including better healthcare, housing, pension and family support.

He called for an improvement in the military’s casualty management system, saying the treatment of wounded soldiers could affect the morale of personnel still serving in operational areas.

He also criticised what he described as godfatherism and perceived inequality in military postings and career progression, arguing that some officers had spent years on operations while others had little or no operational exposure.

On the wider Nigerian society, Ma’aji expressed concern over the cost of living, education, corruption and the impact of fuel subsidy removal on ordinary citizens.

He urged the government to invest resources saved from subsidy reforms in programmes capable of reducing hardship, including mass transportation and other social infrastructure.

He also called for stronger action against corruption, saying perceived impunity among public officials could affect the morale and confidence of security personnel.

On the alleged coup plot itself, Ma’aji said the movement was never intended to destabilise the country, insisting that it was motivated by what he described as love for Nigeria.

He said: “Everything we planned was born out of patriotism, love of country, and the desire to have a prosperous Nigeria that we all can be proud of.”

The colonel appealed to the authorities to consider the circumstances that led to the alleged plot and pardon those involved, describing them as first offenders.

“We are pleading for a pardon and a chance to amend our ways. Many of the officers have participated in some operations in the North-East. I am happy nobody has been hurt,” he said.

Ma’aji said his detention had been “challenging and revealing”, adding that it had given him an opportunity to reconsider his approach to expressing grievances.

He maintained that he and others involved had no other country to call their own, and urged the authorities to consider their contributions to national security alongside the allegations against them.

He concluded by asking for an opportunity to meet with the relevant authorities, apologise and commit themselves to pursuing lawful and peaceful means of addressing grievances

Umuezeala Oboh, Osuoma autonomous community gets solar-powered water project through catholic priest

For decades, the people of Umuezala Oboh, Osuoma autonomous community, in Isiala Mbano Local Government Area of Imo State lived with the daily burden of water scarcity. Access to clean drinking water was a luxury, as residents trekked long distances to nearby streams or depended on private boreholes, often at considerable cost.

That long-standing challenge has now given way to hope, thanks to the generosity of Rev. Fr. Pius Obioma Nwagwu, SMMM, a Catholic priest of the Congregation of Son’s of Mary Mother of Mercy and a proud grandson  of the community, who facilitated the construction of a solar-powered water project for his maternal people.

The life-changing project was made possible through the support of some of Fr. Nwagwu’s parishioners in Austria, where he is currently serving. The donors, Mr. Josef and Mrs. Monica Hermann, alongside Mr. Leopold and Mrs. Gabriele Maria Elisabeth Handelberger, funded the initiative as part of their commitment to improving lives beyond their borders.

The commissioning ceremony attracted community leaders, clergy, and residents who gathered to celebrate what many described as a new chapter for Umuezala Oboh.

Speaking at the event, the Rector of Seat of Wisdom Seminary, Owerri, Rev.Fr. Dr. Cajetan Ehiem, praised Fr. Nwagwu for remembering his roots and giving back to his maternal community. He said the successful execution of the project reflected the priest’s integrity, dedication, and hard work, qualities that earned him the confidence of his parishioners abroad.

He urged Fr. Nwagwu to remain steadfast in his service to God and humanity, praying that God would continue to bless and strengthen him. He also appealed to the beneficiaries to protect the facility, stressing that such a project required significant financial resources and deserved proper care and maintenance.

In his remarks, Rev. Fr. Pius Nwagwu revealed that the water project was dedicated to the memory of his late mother, Nneoma Scholastica Ngozi Nwagwu, whose life of love and sacrifice inspired the initiative. He called on the community to establish a maintenance committee that would safeguard the facility and ensure it serves generations to come.

Responding on behalf of the community, Eze Udo IV of Osuoma , His Royal Highness Edmund Agim expressed heartfelt appreciation to the donors and Fr. Nwagwu for the invaluable gift. He assured them that the community, working with its vigilante security team, would protect the facility and ensure its sustainability.

Beyond providing clean water, the project symbolizes compassion, community service, and the impact an individual can make by remembering home. For the people of Umuezala Oboh, the solar-powered water scheme is more than an infrastructure project—it is a source of renewed hope, improved health, and a brighter future.

CP Wilfred Olutokunbo Afolabi assumes duty as 35th Abia CP

From Henrietta Ashikodi, Umuahia 

The 35th Commissioner of Police in Abia State, CP Wilfred Olutokunbo Afolabi, has resumed duty yesterday. He succeeded AIG Danladi Isa, who has been promoted and redeployed to the Force Criminal Investigation Department, FCID, Annex, Kaduna.

This was contained in a press statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Maureen Chioma Chinaka.

According to the PPRO, CP Afolabi is a seasoned and accomplished officer of the Nigeria Police Force with over three decades of meritorious service.

CP Afolabi enlisted into the Nigeria Police Force as a Cadet Assistant Superintendent of Police, ASP, on May 18, 1992. He has since built a distinguished career marked by professionalism, discipline, and dedication to duty.

He is highly educated and professionally trained. He holds a Bachelor of Science, Hons, degree in Botany from the University of Ilorin, a Postgraduate Diploma, and a Master’s degree in Peace and Security Studies from the University of Port Harcourt.

His professional development is further strengthened by several strategic and tactical courses, including: the Strategic Leadership and Command Course at the National Institute of Police Studies, Abuja; Tactical Leadership and Command Course at the Police Staff College, Jos; Internal Security/Low Intensity Conflict Course at the Armed Forces Command and Staff College, Jaji; and Peacekeeping Negotiation Course at the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre, Ghana” she said

The PPRO said CP Afolabi’s international policing experience is extensive. He served with distinction as the Pioneer Sector Commander, Sector 2 Nyala, and Pioneer Regional Commander, Southern Darfur, under the African Union Mission in Sudan, 2004–2005. He was instrumental in establishing operational and administrative structures, setting up police stations in internally displaced persons’ camps, and coordinating civil police activities.

He also served as Nigeria Contingent Commander and Special Response Unit Officer under the Human Rights Section of the United Nations Mission in Bosnia and Herzegovina, 2001–2002, where he contributed to law enforcement reforms, system analysis, and training development for local police personnel.

On the home front, CP Afolabi has held several key command, operational, and administrative positions across the country. Prior to his posting to Abia, he was Commissioner of Police, Admin, Training and Development, Force Headquarters, Abuja.

He also served as Commissioner of Police, Ondo State Command, where he coordinated administrative and operational functions, strengthened intelligence networks, enhanced investigative efficiency, and promoted community policing for improved public trust.

He served as CP, Force Equitation Officer, Mounted Troop, at Force Headquarters, Abuja, overseeing mounted police operations, operational readiness, and professional standards in crowd control and ceremonial duties.

Between 2021 and 2023, as Deputy Commissioner of Police, he served as DCP, Admin, Delta State Command, handling high-level administrative responsibilities. He also served as DCP, CID, Katsina State Command, where he coordinated and supervised criminal investigations, and as DCP, Operations, Bayelsa State Command, where he planned and executed crime prevention strategies.

From 2016 to 2021, as Assistant Commissioner of Police, he served as Area Commander, Anambra State Command; ACP, Operations, Imo State Command; and ACP, Intelligence, Abuja. Between 2014 and 2016, he was Divisional Police Officer in multiple divisions within Abuja and Directing Staff at the Police Staff College, Jos, where he trained and mentored senior officers.

The PPRO further disclosed that CP Afolabi served in various operational roles, including Sector Commander and Second-in-Command in Joint Task Force operations in Warri, Staff Officer at Force Headquarters, and Unit Commander of the Police Mobile Force in Plateau State, where he coordinated combat operations, riot control, and other specialized duties.

In addition, he undertook several ad-hoc national assignments. He was among the first Nigerian police officers deployed to the African Union Mission in Sudan, Darfur. He was the last Contingent Commander of the Nigeria Police Team to the United Nations Mission in Bosnia and Herzegovina. He also acted as Aide-De-Camp to visiting Heads of State and participated in organizing major international events, including the All African Games and Commonwealth Summit.

CP Afolabi is a Fellow of the Peace and Security Studies Department, University of Port Harcourt, and a Justice of the Peace, JP. He is married with children. His hobbies include traveling and reading.

The Abia State Police Command calls on stakeholders and the general public to support CP Wilfred Olutokunbo Afolabi in his efforts to ensure the safety and security of citizens in Abia State, the PPRO stated.

Imo Assembly Speaker’s Aide, Uche Nwoke, hails leadership of Imo indigenes in Abidjan

The Senior Special Assistant to the Speaker of the Imo State House of Assembly, Chief Uchenna Nwoke has lauded the exemplary leadership of Mr. Gabriel Opara, President of Imo State Indigenes Association in Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire.

Chief Nwoke’s commendation highlighted Mr. Opara’s significant contributions to fostering unity, progress, and effective representation for Imo citizens residing in the West African nation.

In a statement released to newsmen in Owerri, Chief Nwoke, a legal practitioner emphasized that Mr. Opara’s tenure as President is characterized  by exceptional leadership qualities, symbolising unreserved dedication, foresight, and  unwavering commitment to the welfare of his members.

He praised Mr. Opara, an indigene of Umugwueze, Nekede in Owerri West Local Government Area for his patriotism and commitment in piloting the affairs of Imo indigenes in Abidjan, a role that demands  delicate balance of diplomacy, community building, and proactive problem-solving.

The Imo Assembly Speaker’s Aide observed that Mr. Gabriel Opara had demonstrated  profound understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by Imo people in the diaspora, adding that his leadership has not only strengthened the bonds among Imo and other Igbo indigenes in Abidjan but also,  ensured that their collective voice is heard and respected.

According to Chief Nwoke, Mr Gabriel Opara has effectively created a platform for mutual support, cultural preservation, and socio-economic advancement as well as initiatives that have brought positive impacts.

He said that under Mr. Opara’s leadership, the association has become vital hub for networking, providing assistance to new arrivals, and advocacy for the rights and interests of Imo citizens, underscoring the visible improvements in the organization and coordination of community events, which have served to foster a stronger sense of belonging and identity among Imo indigenes in Cote d’Ivoire.

Chief Nwoke expressed confidence in Mr. Opara’s continued ability to lead the association and assured him of the support and recognition from the leadership of  Imo State House of Assembly.

He urged other Imo indigenes in various parts of the world to draw inspiration from Mr. Opara’s exemplary service and  contribute positively to their respective communities and  Imo State in general.

Oru West Chairman Adikibe condemns land encroachments, warns culprits to desist forthwith

The Executive Chairman of Oru-West Local Government who is also the head of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Imo State, Engr Ikenna Anthony Adikibe has lamented the increasing encroachment on government properties within the area.

He warned that his administration will no longer condone the attitude of such individuals or group challenged those in the habit of stepping into government lands.

Speaking during an on-the-spot inspection of the Mgbidi Central Schools property, where he discovered that the Cathedral Church of Emmanuel Mgbidi had committed the act, the chairman asked them to immediately remove from the property without delay.

Adikibe, who is also the Deputy National President of ALGON said that government will no longer tolerate the situation where individuals or group wilfully take over government property without authorization and warned those found culpable will have themselves to blame.

“Government will no longer sit by and watch individuals or group take over government property without authorization. We will begin to clamp down on such infractions anywhere we discover such.

“This is a direct warning to those that have committed the act to immediately remove before we begin to reclaim what rightfully belongs to the government. It is wrong for people to take laws into their hands.

“I am using this medium to warn that my administration will clamp down heavily on anybody found to have converted government property into personal use. Those who are guilty must begin now to relocate.

“My administration will in the coming days set up a committee that will investigate and report all the areas where government lands have been encroached so that we can move to reclaim it. Enough is enough.”

Adikibe condemned the reckless encroachment on government-owned lands, stressing that such actions undermine public infrastructure and community development.

He maintained that the government of Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma does not tolerate individuals or group encroaching on government properties and charged culprits to desist forthwith.

The Headmaster of Mgbidi Central School, Comrade Festus Iwuoha who led the Executive Chairman and his entourage to the affected areas described the level of encroachment as “alarming” and commended Engr. Adikibe for his prompt visit to assess the situation.

Osun govt heads to court to challenge EFCC account freeze

The Osun State Government has commenced legal action against the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, following the freezing of its bank accounts.

The Osun State Government also described the EFCC move as unlawful and capable of disrupting government operations.

The state’s Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Oluwole Jimi-Bada, announced yesterday that Governor Ademola Adeleke had directed him to institute proceedings before the Federal High Court to challenge the anti-graft agency’s action.

Jimi-Bada disclosed that “the state government received information that the EFCC had issued a “Post No Debit” directive to First Bank, where several government accounts are maintained, effectively restricting transactions on the accounts”.

He maintained that “although the EFCC possesses the authority to investigate financial transactions, it does not have the power to freeze a state government’s accounts without first obtaining a court order”.

“I have the mandate of the governor to proceed to the Federal High Court to challenge this move. EFCC can investigate the accounts but it can’t freeze the accounts without order of court,” he stressed.

According to the Attorney General, the restriction on the accounts could significantly affect the day-to-day administration of government and the delivery of public services across the state.

“This step will affect government running but we will challenge the move and ensure that the agency acts within the ambit of the law.”

Also reacting, the Commissioner for Finance, Sola Ogungbile, alleged that police officers visited the main branch of First Bank in Osogbo and arrested members of the bank’s staff during the development.

Ogungbile further rejected suggestions that state resources were being used to finance Governor Adeleke’s re-election campaign, insisting that public funds were not being diverted for political activities.

He appealed to the anti-graft agency to consider the broader implications of the account restriction on governance and the welfare of residents who depend on government services.

Before the accounts were reportedly frozen, Governor Adeleke had raised concerns over what he described as plans by the EFCC to freeze all Osun State Government accounts, as well as those of senior government officials.

In a statement issued earlier by the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Kolapo Alimi, the governor described the reported action as lacking legal justification and alleged that it was intended to disrupt government activities ahead of the August 15 governorship election.

He said, “The plot to freeze the state government accounts is meant to paralyse government activities ahead of the August 15 governorship election.”

He maintained that the EFCC had no legal authority to freeze a state government’s accounts without due judicial process.

EFCC freezes Osun govt’s account days before guber election

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, has reportedly frozen an Osun State Government account domiciled with the First Bank, just 10 days before the state’s governorship election.

According to documents obtained by Our Reporter, the account, said to be used for the payment of workers’ salaries, was placed on a “Post No Debit” restriction by the anti-graft agency.

The development came shortly after Governor Ademola Adeleke, alleged that the EFCC was planning to freeze state government accounts and those belonging to top officials ahead of the August 15 election.

Reacting to the move, the state government, through the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Kolapo Alimi, described the reported action as an attempt to disrupt government operations in the lead-up to the poll.

Governor Adeleke argued that there was no legal justification for freezing the state’s accounts, insisting that the EFCC lacks the statutory authority to take such action against a state government.

A source close to the administration, who spoke on condition of anonymity, confirmed that the account had already been restricted.

“I can confirm that the state government account has been frozen by the EFCC. It is no longer an allegation. The governor will address the press shortly to update the public on the situation,” the source said.

As of the time of filing this report, the EFCC had not issued an official statement regarding the development, while the reason behind the account restriction remained unclear.

PDP ’ll return to power in Abia come 2027 – Guber candidate

The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Abia State has bounced back to the front burner of the state politics and would return to power in 2027, said its governorship candidate, Dr. Kelechi Anosike.

Dr. Anosike made the disclosure in Umuahia during a stakeholders meeting of the party, in which he presented Abraham Amah, the state chairman of PDP, as his running mate.

The Abia PDP governorship candidate said the party was not aiming at anything less than victory in the state in next year’s election.

“For us as a party, the only thing we see is victory. In front of us is victory, and we are not making a mistake about it.

Everything we have done is intentional, everything we have done is well thought through. We considered all possibilities, considered all challenges before we stepped into it.

“One good thing about what we are doing is that our presence is already unsettling the system, the impact is felt, and we are just about to start. So, it’s already shaking and PDP is suddenly back to the front burner. We are now being considered again as a major threat. “We are back and we have tested what it means to be out of power for three years. And we cannot afford one extra year of it. So we are roaring back fully”, he said.

Anosike revealed that Amah was chosen as his running mate for the 2027 election after extensive consultation with the party leadership and other stakeholders.

The Abia PDP governorship candidate said, on a personal note, before choosing Amah, that he looked at his administrative competence, commitment to the party, and the strategic importance of the nomination to the party.

“In choosing Amah, I looked at his administrative competence, I looked at his commitment to the party, and I looked at the strategic importance of his nomination to the party.

“The joint ticket is divine, it is designed to win. This is a joint ticket that can take us back to the Government House.

Anosike, who comes from Abia Central, disclosed that with the nomination of Amah, who is from Abia North as his running mate, the Speakership of the state House of Assembly will go to Abia South.

Anosike boasted that the PDP is presenting a complete ticket that will change the story of Abia State after the election.

Amah, accepting his nomination, thanked Anosike and the leadership of the party for finding him fit to be the running mate of the party for the 2027 election. He pleaded to work closely with the governorship candidate and other members of the party for PDP’s victory.

Enugu church abduction: Peter Obi raises alarm, says no Nigerian safe

The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, for the 2027 general election, Peter Obi, has condemned the abduction of worshippers in Enugu State, describing the growing wave of attacks on places of worship as a national calamity that requires urgent and united action.

Obi spoke in a statement posted on his official social media page yesterday while reacting to reports of the abduction of church members in Enugu.

He said the abduction reflects what he described as the worsening security situation across the country, warning that no region is now immune from criminal attacks.

“I have been deeply dismayed by the recent news concerning the abduction of worshippers in Enugu. It is profoundly distressing that fellow Nigerians, who had come together in divine worship seeking solace and hope, have endured such a traumatic and criminal ordeal,” Obi said.

He warned that insecurity had gone beyond isolated incidents affecting a few states, insisting that the crisis now threatens Nigerians irrespective of their ethnicity, religion or region.

“It is increasingly clear that this is no longer an isolated incident affecting specific states like Borno, Benue, Plateau, Zamfara, or Katsina. It has escalated into a national crisis, threatening every Nigerian, regardless of their ethnic background, religious beliefs, or regional origins,” he stated.

Obi stressed that no Nigerian should have to live in fear of attending religious services, going to school, working or even remaining in their homes.

He called on security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue the abducted worshippers and ensure those responsible for the attack are arrested and prosecuted.

“I call on all relevant security agencies to intensify their efforts to ensure the safe return of the abducted persons and to swiftly apprehend and bring to justice those responsible,” he said.

The former presidential candidate also urged Nigerians to put aside political, ethnic and religious differences in tackling the country’s security challenges, insisting that protecting lives should remain the government’s foremost responsibility.

“The inviolability of human life must remain the highest priority for any government. We cannot accept these tragedies as a new normal. Every Nigerian life is invaluable, and every possible measure must be taken to protect it,” Obi added.

He expressed optimism that the country could overcome its security challenges, saying, “Despite the threats, a new Nigeria is possible with God on our side.”

NYSC makes NERD clearance mandatory for corps members’ mobilisation

The National Youth Service Corps has warned prospective corps members that they will not be mobilised for national service without obtaining clearance from the National Electronic Registration Database (NERD).

The warning came as the scheme continues preparations for the mobilisation of a fresh batch of prospective corps members, while also intensifying efforts to ensure their safety during orientation camp journeys.

In a public notice shared on its official X account yesterday, the NYSC declared that NERD clearance is now compulsory for all prospective corps members.

The scheme urged prospective corps members to complete the process early to avoid delays in mobilisation.

It also cautioned that failure to obtain the clearance could delay mobilisation into the national service programme.

“This is to inform PCMs (Prospective Corps Members) that without NERD clearance, no NYSC. Get your NERD clearance early. Avoid delays in your mobilisation.”

Reiterating the mandatory nature of the requirement, the NYSC stated, “NERD clearance is compulsory for all PCMs. No NERD clearance, No NYSC!!!”

Although the scheme did not provide additional details about the clearance process in the notice, the directive signals a stricter verification regime as preparations continue for the next orientation exercise.

The latest advisory came barely hours after the NYSC announced the mobilisation of another batch of prospective corps members for the 2026 Batch ‘B’ service year, urging institutions and eligible graduates to complete all necessary documentation ahead of the orientation exercise.

It also followed another recent safety advisory by the scheme in which prospective corps members were warned against travelling at night to orientation camps.

The NYSC advised them to break their journeys whenever necessary and lodge in safe locations or designated military and security formations where available, rather than risk travelling after dark.

The renewed advisories reflect the scheme’s efforts to improve both the integrity of its mobilisation process and the safety of prospective corps members, amid growing security concerns on Nigerian highways.

With mobilisation activities gathering pace, prospective corps members are expected to complete all required registration and verification procedures, including the newly emphasised NERD clearance, before reporting for orientation camp.

Don’t sweep Mary Habila, Tanimola’s deaths under the carpet, Falana tells IG

Human rights lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Femi Falana, has urged the Inspector-General of Police to take over investigations into the controversial deaths of Mary Habila and Babatunde Tanimola, warning that both cases must not be “swept under the carpet.”

Falana also called for a speedy autopsy in Habila’s case and urged authorities to ensure transparent investigations into politically motivated killings in Osun State, arguing that every suspicious death deserves a thorough and independent probe.

The senior lawyer made the demands in a statement yesterday titled, “These Deaths Must Not Be Swept Under the Carpet.”

“The right to life is the most basic human right. Without it, other rights cannot be enjoyed by any person. On account of the sanctity of human life, the following cases of suspicious deaths must be thoroughly investigated”, Falana said.

Falana expressed concern over the circumstances surrounding the death of Mary Habila, who was found dead and unclad on June 27, 2026, in a room at the country home of the Minister of Works, David Umahi, in Uburu, Ohaozara Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.

He noted that although Umahi has publicly denied any foul play, insisting that the deceased had an existing medical condition and that the matter was reported to the police, Falana questioned the handling of the incident. He also criticised the delay in conducting an autopsy after the Nigeria Police Force rejected a request by Habila’s father to release the body for burial.

“Even though the Minister has denied any foul play or cover-up, stating she had an existing medical condition and that the matter was reported to the police, the minister contaminated the scene of the incident by handling her phone to speak with her boyfriend.,

“In a sworn affidavit, the father of the deceased rejected an autopsy and requested the release of the body for burial. While the authorities of the Nigeria Police Force have turned down the request of the father of the deceased, they have failed to explain the delay in carrying out the autopsy,” Falana said.

While sympathising with the family, he maintained that suspicious deaths are matters of public interest. “The death of any citizen in suspicious circumstances is not a family affair. In view of the controversy surrounding the unfortunate death of Mary Habila, the Inspector-General of Police should take over the investigation. We equally call on the Nigerian Medical Association to ensure that the autopsy is conducted without any further delay.”

Falana also called for an independent investigation into the death of Babatunde Dolapo Tanimola, whom the Presidency recently identified as a principal suspect in the alleged establishment of a fake government agency.

He noted that although the police said Tanimola died in a hotel fire in Abuja on October 22, 2025, and confirmed the death through hospital and mortuary records, interviews with relatives, the hotel proprietor and burial documentation, several questions remain unanswered.

He added, “As the source of the suspicious fire was being questioned in the media, it was reported that the hotel has since been demolished. Whoever authorised the demolition of the hotel must have set out to cover up the alleged fire incident.”

Falana argued that since the terms of reference of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission investigation into the alleged fake agency do not cover Tanimola’s death, the Inspector-General of Police should immediately take over the matter.

The senior advocate further welcomed the Nigeria Police Force’s decision to investigate 30 suspected politically motivated killings linked to the build-up to the August 15 governorship election in Osun State.

He, however, urged the Attorney-General of Osun State to ensure that those arrested are promptly prosecuted before the High Court. “We call on the Attorney-General of Osun State to ensure that the murder suspects are charged before the High Court,” he said.

Falana also reminded authorities that the Coroner Laws of Ebonyi State, Osun State and the Federal Capital Territory require inquests into sudden, violent, unnatural or suspicious deaths.

“The media should therefore join the demand for the investigation of the aforementioned cases of suspicious deaths. They must not be swept under the carpet,” he said.

NNPCL reduces fuel pump price

Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, NNPCL, retail outlets have reduced the pump price of Premium Motor Spirit, PMS, also known as petrol.

Checks by Our Correspondent showed that NNPCL outlets in Abuja and its environs have adjusted their petrol pump price to N1,299 per litre, down from N1,335 per litre.

This means that NNPCL filling stations have reduced their petrol price by N36 per litre.

The reports said that the new fuel price has been implemented at NNPCL outlets in Lugbe, Kubwa Expressway and Wuse Zone 3, Abuja, and environs.

This came two days after Dangote Refinery-backed MRS filling stations reduced their petrol price by N40, to N1,265 per litre.

The move by MRS filling stations had put other Nigerian filling stations dispensing petrol at around N1,300 and N1,310 per litre under pressure to reduce their prices.

Agric And Food Security Commissioner, Longers Anyanwu, reads riot act to management staff of the Ministry

…Vows to redeem past glory of the Ministry

The newly appointed Commissioner in the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, Hon. (Chief)Longers Anyanwu has charged staff of the Ministry to sit up and work in order to achieve positive goals, not only for the Ministry, but for the entire people of the state.

Chief Longers Anyanwu, gave the charge during his maiden meeting with the management staff of the Ministry in his office at the State Secretariat, Port Harcourt Road.

Anyanwu said he is in the Ministry to redeem the Ministry, which according to him, has lost its glory. He charged Management of the Ministry to work assiduously to yield positive goals as he administration is not ready to dwell on excuses from the staff. He further stressed that would not tolerate any form of Luke-warmness on the part of the staff.

Chief Anyanwu further recalled that he had served in the Ministry over nineteen years ago as Honorable Commissioner, and added that file disappearances and poor documentations are not acceptable under his watch. He admonished both the management and staff to adhere strictly to the civil service rules adding that his administration will not condone indiscipline and insubordination among the staff.

He expressed regret that despite series of programme going on in the Agricultural sector at Abuja, Imo state was not captured, and vowed to change the narrative. He called for proper documentation of ministerial dealings as to keep records for future reference purposes.

Speaking on behalf of the staff, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Alexander Onwumere assured the Honourable Commissioner of the readiness of staff of the Ministry to work harmoniously with him to achieve positive results for the Ministry and the state as a whole.

Highlight of the meeting was the presentation of briefs from the various Departments by the various Heads.

Also present during the meeting was the Special Adviser to the Governor on Adapalm, Hon. Gideon Meffor.

In a vote of thanks, the Director of Agric Department, Mr. Ebigwe Innocent thanked the Commissioner for finding time to dialogue with his staff and promised that they would work to achieve the set goals of Governor Uzodinma’s administration in the State.

Obasanjo charges church to confront poverty, Insecurity with militant faith

Former President, Olusegun Obasanjo, has challenged the Church in Nigeria to confront the nation’s growing challenges of poverty, insecurity and unrighteousness with what he described as, “militant” faith, saying the country would have been in a better position if Christians had been more zealous and active in advancing righteousness and societal transformation.

Obasanjo issued the charge yesterday while speaking at the weeklong Golden Jubilee of the Annual LAWNA International Convention of The Apostolic Church Nigeria, at the National Temple, Olorunda-Ketu, Lagos.

Clarifying his use of the word “militant,” the former military officer said it should not be interpreted as violence but as commitment, passion and active service in fulfilling God’s purpose.

“Being an ex-military man, I understand what being militant means. It means to be zealous and active in service,” he said.

Reflecting on Nigeria’s situation despite its large Christian population, Obasanjo asked, “Do we have peace, security, prosperity and love, yet we have churches?”

He urged believers to rise to their responsibility to transform society through peace, love and righteousness, insisting that “if we have a militant Church on earth and in Nigeria, it would have been a different situation for us in this country.”

According to him, for Nigeria to become “a land flowing with milk and honey” rather than one burdened by poverty, insecurity and moral decline, the Church must become more committed to its divine mandate.

“Children of God, we have a task ahead of us. We have challenges, and Christ expects us to fulfil our responsibilities and confront those challenges. God will empower us to carry out our duties,” he said, while congratulating the Church on the 50th anniversary of the convention.

The 2026 LAWNA Territory International Convention, themed “Church Militant on Earth” and anchored on 1 Timothy 6:12, began on August 1 and will end on August 7 at the LAWNA International Convention Grounds, Olorunda-Ketu, Lagos.

In his sermon, the National President of The Apostolic Church Nigeria, Lawrence Olusesan Oladele, said the Church is facing intense persecution in different parts of the world and must remain spiritually alert.

He urged Christians to see themselves as soldiers of Christ, engaged in spiritual warfare against Satan, warning that believers who continue in sinful lifestyles cannot claim to be faithful soldiers of Christ.

Oladele encouraged Christians to stand firm in the victory secured by Christ through His resurrection and to remain steadfast in defending the faith.

Xenophobic attacks: Impose economic sanction on South African firms, Falana tells FG

Human rights lawyer, Femi Falana (SAN), has called on the Federal Government to impose economic sanctions on South African companies operating in Nigeria in response to recurring xenophobic attacks on Nigerians and the destruction of their businesses in South Africa.

Falana said diplomatic protests alone would not compel the South African government to take decisive action against attacks targeting Nigerians, stressing that Nigeria should adopt measures based on the principle of reciprocity in international relations.

Speaking with journalists in Ado-Ekiti, the Ekiti State capital, at the weekend, the senior lawyer argued that while the Federal Government could lodge a complaint before the African Union (AU), such a move would have limited impact.

According to him, South Africa wields significant influence within the African Union, and any complaint may only result in the adoption of a resolution without concrete enforcement.

Falana maintained that Nigeria has a responsibility to respond appropriately if Nigerians are being driven out of South Africa and their businesses destroyed.

He urged Nigerians to patronise alternatives to South African-owned businesses, including telecommunications company MTN, saying such actions would send a strong message to the South African authorities.

He also advocated the revocation of mining licences granted to South African companies operating in Nigeria, insisting that stronger economic measures would demonstrate Nigeria’s commitment to protecting its citizens abroad.

“The Federal Government will have to employ diplomatic action, but beyond that, it should also adopt economic measures against South African companies operating in Nigeria.

“International diplomacy is about reciprocity. If they chase out Nigerians and destroy their businesses, Nigeria has a duty to act. South African companies should be sanctioned where there are alternatives.

“Where there are alternatives, Nigerians should be encouraged to migrate from MTN because there are alternatives. That is one way South Africa will know that Nigeria is serious.

“In the 1970s, because of apartheid in South Africa, Nigeria nationalised British Petroleum. It should also be possible today to nationalise some South African investments in Nigeria if necessary,” he said.

Falana also called on the Federal Government to grant Nigerians direct access to the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights.

“There is the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights in Arusha, Tanzania, established by the African Union to address human rights abuses in member states. Nigeria has refused to allow its nationals access to that court by failing to deposit the necessary instruments.

“If Nigerians could approach the African Court in the same way citizens can approach the ECOWAS Court in Abuja, South Africa would have been dragged before the court by victims of xenophobic attacks.

“I challenge the government of Nigeria to allow citizens access to the African Court without any further delay. Victims of gross human rights violations in African countries should have the opportunity to seek justice before the continental court, just as they can at the ECOWAS Court,” he said.

Falana, however, also faulted the Nigerian government for failing to adequately protect its citizens from harassment and human rights violations across Africa.

He argued that Nigeria has denied its citizens an important legal avenue for redress by failing to recognise the jurisdiction of the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights to entertain individual petitions, thereby limiting victims’ ability to seek justice at the continental level.

US condemns Kaduna killings, presses Tinubu to protect Middle Belt communities

The United States has condemned the deadly July 27 attack on a village in Kaduna State that reportedly claimed at least 30 lives, including children, while urging President Bola Tinubu’s administration to intensify efforts to halt the wave of violence affecting Nigeria’s Middle Belt.

In a statement posted on X, the US Bureau of African Affairs described the attack as another tragic episode in the region’s prolonged security crisis and extended condolences to the victims’ families.

“The United States condemns the early morning July 27 attack on a village in Nigeria’s Kaduna State that reportedly killed at least 30 people, including children,” the bureau said.

It added, “We express our deepest condolences to the loved ones of the deceased. We will continue to urge the Government of Nigeria to address rampant violence against Christians in the Middle Belt.”

Echoing the bureau’s position, US Representative Riley Moore described reports from Nigeria’s Middle Belt as “terrible” and called on the Federal Government to strengthen security operations in the troubled region despite recent gains recorded in northern Nigeria through bilateral security cooperation.

“President Tinubu must do more to address the violence in the Middle Belt, including securing the safe return of this seminarian,” Moore wrote on X, referring to Seminarian Kelvin Ochai, who was abducted in Benue State. The US lawmaker did not provide further details regarding the circumstances surrounding the seminarian’s kidnapping.

The latest attack adds to a growing list of deadly incidents across Kaduna and other Middle Belt states, where communities have continued to face bandit attacks, kidnappings and communal violence. The region, situated between Nigeria’s predominantly Muslim North and Christian South, has remained one of the country’s most volatile security flashpoints.

Last year, Nigeria and the United States activated a security cooperation framework focused on intelligence sharing, military training and counter-terrorism operations. US officials have frequently cited the partnership as contributing to gains against insurgents in the North-East.

However, Washington and several international rights organisations have continued to express concern over persistent attacks on farming communities, villages and places of worship across the Middle Belt, despite ongoing security interventions.

The Bureau of African Affairs said its latest statement underscores the United States’ continued concern over civilian protection and renewed calls for stronger measures to curb violence and safeguard vulnerable communities across the region.

Sellers, buyers of votes will be arrested in Osun – Amupitan

The chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof Joash Amupitan, yesterday said that sellers and buyers of votes will be arrested in the August 15 governorship election in Osun State.

Amukpitan also expressed satisfaction with the functionality of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) deployed during Saturday’s mock accreditation exercise conducted by the commission ahead of the poll.

Addressing journalists during an interactive session in Osogbo, Amupitan said what his team observed during the accreditation exercise and confirmed that INEC’s technological defence against identity theft and result manipulation is robust and fully operational.

He noted that the mock accreditation exercise is part of INEC’s quality assurance protocol, adding that it is designed to stress-test the commission’s technological infrastructure under real-world field conditions before the actual election.

According to him, the BVAS demonstrated optimal field resilience during the exercise, with voter accreditation taking between 30 seconds and two minutes using either fingerprint or facial recognition.

“The dual-authentication nature of the BVAS has significantly minimised instances of non-verification, which was one of our primary goals,” he said.

Amupitan further disclosed that, following concerns raised by some political parties over the number of BVAS devices deployed to the state, INEC increased the number of machines for the election from 4,427 to 5,130 to cater for split polling units in large polling units in Ife East, Irewole, Egbedore, Ede North and Osogbo.

“Based on concerns expressed by some political parties on the number of BVAS deployed to the state, we have increased the total number of BVAS for the election from 4,427 to 5,130,” he stated.

On vote buying, the INEC chairman said plainclothes anti-corruption officers would monitor the perimeters of polling units to arrest both vote buyers and sellers.

He added that the commission was partnering with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to track suspicious bank transactions.

He said the commission might also leverage the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU) and was already in discussions with the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation on additional measures to combat the menace.

The INEC boss, who harped on the need for a peaceful election, said the commission had held strategic meetings with security agencies under the aegis of the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security (ICCES).

“We have received assurances that a specialised, non-partisan security deployment plan is in place to protect the integrity of the ballot and ensure that citizens of Osun can exercise their franchise without fear,” he said.

Amupitan also assured persons with disabilities of the seamless exercise of their civic rights, adding that everything required to ensure a hitch-free election had been put in place.

Obi salutes Charly Boy, Jibunoh, says Nigeria needs more patriots

The presidential candidate of the National Democratic Coalition (NDC), Peter Obi, has lauded veteran entertainer Charles Oputa, popularly known as Charly Boy, and renowned environmentalist and adventurer Newton Jibunoh for what he described as their enduring contributions to nation-building and public service.

Obi spoke after attending the launch of 999: The Memoir of Charly Boy in Lagos and visiting the newly inaugurated Newton Jibunoh Centre and Museum in Asaba.

He said Charly Boy was often misunderstood because of his unconventional public image, insisting that behind the controversial persona is “a thoughtful intellectual, compassionate human being and patriot committed to building a better Nigeria.”

The former Anambra State governor particularly commended Charly Boy’s campaign for men’s health through his foundation, noting that the entertainer had turned his personal battle with prostate cancer into a nationwide advocacy for early detection and improved access to treatment.

“Good health remains one of the strongest pillars of national development, and I will continue to support initiatives that improve the well-being of Nigerians,” Obi said.

On Jibunoh, Obi described the elder statesman as one of Nigeria’s living legends, whose courage and resilience continue to inspire generations.

Although he missed Jibunoh’s Mandela Day event with the theme, “Poverty and Inequality Are in Our Hands,” Obi said he deemed it necessary to pay him a personal visit at the newly established centre and museum in Asaba.

He recalled Jibunoh’s historic expeditions across the Sahara Desert to London, describing the journeys as remarkable feats that symbolised determination and perseverance.

Obi said the expeditions also underscored how much safer travel within Nigeria and across Africa once was, lamenting the country’s worsening insecurity.

According to him, Jibunoh’s experiences serve as a reminder of the urgent need to restore security, unity and prosperity in Nigeria.

He reaffirmed his conviction that “A New Nigeria is Possible.”

JAMB begins leadership transition as Oloyede hands over to Aina

The outgoing Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Professor Is-haq Oloyede, on Friday formally began the process of handing over the leadership of the examination body to his successor, Professor Segun Aina, at the Board’s headquarters in Abuja.

The handover ceremony, which is currently ongoing, marks the end of Oloyede’s tenure after 10 years of overseeing major reforms in Nigeria’s tertiary admissions system.

Top government officials, JAMB management staff, and other stakeholders are attending the event.

Professor Aina is expected to assume office as the new Registrar following the formal transfer of authority, with expectations that he will build on the reforms initiated by his predecessor while addressing emerging challenges in the nation’s admissions process.

In his farewell speech, Prof. Oloyede expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for the opportunity to serve, appreciated members of staff, stakeholders and partners for their support throughout his tenure, and urged them to extend the same cooperation to his successor, Prof. Aina.

He said JAMB’s achievements were the result of collective commitment, professionalism and integrity, while expressing confidence that the Board would continue to consolidate on the reforms and innovations introduced under his leadership.

He also reaffirmed his belief that the institution would remain focused on transparency, accountability and excellence in the nation’s tertiary admissions process.

Catholic priests not like ‘fake bishops’, Atiku flays presidency’s attack on Onaiyekan

Presidential Candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Atiku Abubakar, has condemned the Presidency’s attack on the Catholic Church and John Cardinal Onaiyekan, accusing the President Bola Tinubu administration of growing intolerant of dissent and uncomfortable truths.

In a statement by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu yesterday, Atiku said the Presidency chose intimidation and political attacks instead of reflecting on the substance of the cleric’s message.

Catholic bishops had recently had an engagement with the president, where the latter defended his record and the independence of the electoral umpire.

However, the cardinal in a television interview on Friday said the Catholic bishops told the president that the country is bleeding and the economy is not helping poor citizens.

According to him, Tinubu and his officials present at the meeting were “not looking very happy” with the speech, adding that it was a different speech from what the president usually listens to.

But the president slammed Onaiyekan, accusing him and the Catholic Church, among other things, of working for the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), presidential candidate, Mr Peter Obi.

Atiku suggested the Presidency’s response reflected a habit of surrounding itself with fake and compliant clerics allegedly used in the lead up to the 2023 general election, contrasting this with the independence of Catholic bishops.

“Perhaps the Presidency has become so accustomed to inviting ‘fake bishops’ that it now assumes every cleric can be recruited into political propaganda. But Catholic bishops are different. They are not political props, rented cheerleaders or praise singers. They are shepherds with a moral obligation to speak truth to power, regardless of whose interests are bruised. They cannot be used,” he said.

The former Vice President said the Catholic Church has historically served as a moral voice for the poor and vulnerable regardless of who occupies Aso Rock, and praised the bishops for confronting President Tinubu directly.

He described the Presidency’s commentary against Cardinal Onaiyekan as arrogant and unbecoming of government, accusing officials of attempting to distort the cleric’s engagement with the President.

According to him, what the media managers of the Tinubu administration attempted to do was to cancel and overwrite the voices of the Catholic Bishops by selectively editing and reframing their engagement with the president in order to manufacture a narrative favourable to the government.

He said Cardinal Onaiyekan’s decision to speak to the Press afterward was merely an effort to place the facts on record.

“A government confident in its record welcomes criticism because it provides an opportunity for reflection and improvement. Only an insecure government wages war against honest voices while rewarding those who tell it only what it wants to hear,” he said.

The former vice president noted that the Cardinal’s comments merely reflected the daily realities of hunger, insecurity, poverty, unemployment and the cost-of-living crisis confronting Nigerians, and that attacking him would not erase those realities.

Atiku demanded that the Presidency apologises to the Catholic Church, Cardinal Onaiyekan and Catholic faithful nationwide, warning that the administration would continue to face accusations of arrogance and intolerance until it did so.

Fubara biggest loser in Rivers crisis — Wike

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, said on Saturday that Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara is the biggest loser in the political crisis that rocked the state.

Wike further said the governor lost the opportunity to return for a second term in office because he was listening and acting on wrong advice from his supporters, who deceived him and worsened the crisis in the state.

The FCT minister spoke on Saturday during a media chat in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

He said Fubara’s failure to preside over the last local government election, which produced the current council chairmen in the 23 LGAs, and having no control of the state House of Assembly showed he was not in charge even as governor.

Wike stated, “Impeachment is constitutionally provided but it is used as a political tool. When you are having two people quarreling, at a certain stage, you have to surrender. If you don’t surrender, this is what will happen to you. Now you have to weigh the option. For the interest of peace, let us sheathe our swords.

“Impeachment is constitutionally provided for, but you don’t come out every time to say you want to carry out impeachment. That is only done when you see that things are not working very well. Even in that situation, you have to be very careful; there is a process. Remember the impeachment proceedings against Donald Trump.

“All these are political tools but provided in the Constitution. A time comes when you discuss the tools. So that is what has happened here. In the interest of peace, look, you give and take.”

Wike expressed disappointment that the governor could not break into the state House of Assembly during the crisis, saying that, of the 29 members of the House, none was with him, nor were any of those who were his supporters.

“Assembly of 29 members, not one was taken away. What does it tell you? You’re a leader, for example, in Okrika, the Assembly member is here. You’re a leader in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government, the Assembly member is not with you. You’re a leader in Khana Local Government, the Assembly member is not with you. You’re a leader in Andoni Local Government, the Assembly member is not with you. You’re a leader in Obio/Akpor, you don’t have one Assembly member.

“You’re running to the governor that we are with you; with you with what? He (Fubara) couldn’t break the Assembly. What does it tell you? Everything is money, money. If it is money, who has the money?

“All these people who surrounded the governor, look at all the fights. What impact or input did they make to help the governor succeed? They were there and a state of emergency was declared. What did they do?

“When I said the governor is losing, what I mean… the governor did not preside over the local government election. He did not. The one he did was nullified by the Supreme Court and they were all sacked. How do you think that, as a governor, I did not superintend over the election? Two, because of some people who surrounded him, giving him advice, the governor did not secure a second term,” he said.

The FCT minister continued, “Remember when I flagged off the Ring Road. I flagged off the Ring Road and I said if you complete this Ring Road, nobody will stop your second term. Now, if I had said that, it means that I laid a foundation for you. You know how painful it is. Whether you like it or not, the governor knows what he saw; he knows what he faced. People who advised him did not even know.

“All their interest is fight, fight. What is your contribution to that fight? Let me tell you something. I watch television. I watch people like Ann-Kio Briggs. Each time I watch television and see her talk, I say, look at people who are deceiving the governor. What does she have to contribute to even help the governor?

“I was a governor in this state. I know all these people. In fact, there has been no politician in this state since 1999. I can say I’m the most experienced politician now. All over the world, somebody must control at a particular time. In the United States, there are people now planning that after Donald Trump, we are going to take over. There is no politics in this world where you don’t see a group controlling.”

Asked how Fubara is the biggest loser, he said, “If you want me to say the bitter truth, I feel for him. But yes, he is the biggest loser. Yes, he lost because, look at it, God gave you something on a platter of gold. There is no problem; there is no basis. In fact, as a strategist, how would you stay 100 days in office, assuming, as you said, though not conceding, that he is under pressure to bring money? One hundred days in office, and you cannot stomach it.

“Assuming what they are saying is correct, say, ‘Look, I need to go somewhere. I need to make a contribution to the state.’ As it stands now, who is going to lose? The state has lost, I lost. I didn’t want the state to lose. I wanted the state to progress and, as politicians too, you don’t want your own group to lose out. Let nobody deceive you.

“Even those who supported Siminalayi, they said that they cannot allow us to continue to be in power. Politics is not church. Politics is all about power. What you use the power for is a different thing. Whether you use it for the interest of the people or not is a different thing.”

Energy professionals demand probe of NNPC, NUPRC over transparency concerns

Oil and Gas Professionals Forum (OGPF), has asked the federal government to launch an independent probe into the leadership and operations of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC), and the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) over growing transparency concerns in the sector.

The call came amid renewed public debate over production performance, licensing procedures and contract awards in Nigeria’s oil industry.

In a statement signed by its convener, Ayodele Momoh, on Saturday, the forum said the renewed agitation reflects deepening unease within the oil and gas industry over the pace of reform and the credibility of key decisions shaping the sector.

“Nigeria’s oil sector is facing renewed public scrutiny after allegations of policy under

performance, questionable transactions, and renewed contract controversies surrounding senior leadership at NNPC and the NUPRC.

“Mele Kyari, formerly GCEO of NNPC, was removed from his position following claims that the administration under his watch suffered from non-performance, corruption/self-dealing allegations, and an inability to materially raise production beyond the widely cited benchmark of roughly 1.7 million barrels per day,” the group said.

It noted that about one and a half years after Mr Kyari’s successor, Bayo Ojulari, took over, the narrative had not improved as production remained below the same threshold amid concerns around non-performance and alleged ‘shady’ transactions.

The professionals insisted that the marginal fields licensing process deserves closer examination, particularly reports suggesting possible insider influence, uneven application of rules and overlaps in block allocations.

“The process implicated Bayo Ojulari through allegations that allies and cronies secured favourable blocks, allegedly aided by insider knowledge and access associated with senior management influence connected to Ojulari’s personal network, including one of his wives, who is a top official at the NUPRC,” it added.

According to the group, any process involving national assets must be guided by strict transparency, documented criteria and equal access for all qualified participants.

It noted that similar calls had already been made in other quarters for a review of licensing exercises and a forensic look at bid-round conduct.

The group added, “Some of the blocks tied to the licensing outcome were reported to overlap with interests already held by people described as being close to the President’s inner circle. Therefore, we call for the removal of both Bayo Ojulari from his NNPC leadership role and Meyiwa Eyesan from her position at the NUPRC.

“Leadership accountability should extend beyond earlier changes and toward current outcomes, especially to protect licensing integrity, contract award practices, and oil production delivery.”

The professionals insisted that it was in the public interest for the presidency and relevant oversight agencies to examine the issues objectively and ensure that any concerns around procurement, licensing and regulatory oversight are addressed transparently.

“Early allocations for specific OMLs — namely OML 64 and OML 98 — were connected to companies aligned with friends and allies of Ojulari, fueling additional speculation over whether personal networks are shaping contract decisions.

“Throughout the growing controversy, Ojulari has reportedly maintained that his actions  across licensing and related decisions —were conducted with the knowledge of the President.

“Public accountability requires more than assertions of political awareness, especially where outcomes appear to advantage particular networks,” the group said.

Popular Juju Musician St. Janet is Dead

‎Juju musician Janet Iyun Ajilore, popularly known as St. Janet, has died.

‎The news of her passing was announced yesterday by publisher and socialite, Otunba Femi Davies, in a post shared on his Facebook page.

‎According to Davies, the veteran singer died on Saturday after a brief illness.

‎‎Announcing her death, he wrote, “St Janet (Iyun Janet Ajilore), a popular Nigerian Juju and Highlife musician known for her vibrant live performances and socially unfiltered party tracks, is dead. She died after a brief illness on Saturday

‎‎St. Janet was widely celebrated for her energetic performances and unique style, sometimes with lewd lyrics, which earned her a loyal fan base within Nigeria’s Juju music community and beyond.

‎‎She became a familiar figure at social events and celebrations, captivating audiences with her lively stagecraft and party-themed songs that resonated with many music lovers.

‎‎Her contributions to the Juju genres helped cement her place among notable entertainers in the industry.

‎Since news of her death emerged, tributes have continued to pour in from fans, colleagues and admirers.

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