Lightning reportedly struck a herder and about 12 cows dead in Southern Kaduna on Sunday.

According to report, the incident occurred in Matuak Giwa, Bondon District, Moroa Chiefdom, in Kaura Local Government Area of the state.

The Village Head of Matuak Giwa, Simon Ayuba, confirmed the incident yesterday.

He explained that the young herder was taking shelter from the rain alongside his cattle when the thunderstrike hit, killing them instantly.

The herder, along with 12 cows, died on the spot. It was a tragic occurrence that has left the community in shock, Ayuba said.

Mallam Tanko Isiyaka, the Ardo of Bondon District, also confirmed the incident, disclosing that the deceased herder hailed from Bauchi State.

Tanko expressed sadness over the incident and called for prayers and support for the bereaved family as the victim was laid to rest according to Islamic rites.

Host Communities of Nigeria Producing Oil and Gas (HOSTCOM) have called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to urgently intervene in the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State, citing concerns over its potential impact on the state’s stability and economic contributions to the nation.

The political turmoil in Rivers State arising from a power tussle between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his erstwhile godfather, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, led to a declaration of state of emergency by President Bola Tinubu last week. It has drawn nationwide attention, with concerns about its potential effects on governance and development.

In a press briefing by HOSTCOM leadership yesterday, the group appealed to President Tinubu to use his good offices to ensure an amicable resolution of the political imbroglio, which has engulfed Rivers State.

Emphasising that they are neither on the side of Governor Siminalayi Fubara nor that of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, they urged all parties involved to sheathe their swords and embrace peace in the interest of the people of the state.

“We know and trust that Mr. President has the capacity to restore peace and sanity in the state. We are sure that Mr. President will do this for us”, Dr. Benjamin Style Tamaranebi, president of HOSTCOM, said.

The group also declared full support for President Tinubu’s administration and his re-election bid in 2027. Citing progress in security, economic reforms, and infrastructural development, HOSTCOM expressed confidence in Tinubu’s leadership and his ability to steer Nigeria towards sustained growth.

President Tinubu has steadied the ship. He has empowered local communities. And he needs more time to finish what he started, the statement declared.

HOSTCOM outlined key reasons for endorsing Tinubu’s second term, saying that for decades, oil theft and pipeline vandalism have crippled Nigeria’s economy.

“The twin cancerous maladies also destroyed the normal life of our people. President Tinubu, through his strategic partnerships with Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited (TSSNL) and other security agencies, has reduced oil theft to historic lows.

“The oil and gas sector long left for dead has staged a stunning comeback. Crude oil production has jumped from a shameful 600,000 barrels per day to a respectable 1.8 million. Nigeria is earning its rightful place in the global oil market for the first time in years.

“The refining revolution has begun. The Dangote Refinery, now operational, in strategic synergy alongside Port Harcourt and Warri Refineries are all refining and taking away over-dependency on importation of refined petroleum products. With the new leaves of Nigeria National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), under the able and competent leadership of its Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO), MallamMeleKyari, Hon. Minister of State (Oil) Sen. Heineken Lokpobiri is poised to end decades of dependency on petroleum imports. The deal is clear: refine locally, save forex, and strengthen the naira.

“Revenue has more than doubled, hitting over N9.1 trillion. The days of borrowing to pay salaries are fading into history. Debt servicing, once a back-breaking 97% of national income, is now 68% and declining.

“Beyond oil, Tinubu’s infrastructural vision is taking shape. The Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway is no longer a campaign promiseit is breaking ground. The Sokoto-Badagry Highway will link the North to the Southwest in ways never imagined. Long abandoned roads, including the East/West Highway, Benin/Warri Highway, Asaba/Benin and Abuja/Benin/Highway, among others, are being constructed and rehabilitated. Just last week, Mr. President officially flagged off the construction of the 17.55 kilometres access road to the Second Niger Bridge, linking Anambra and Delta States.

“The Students Loan Fund is a game-changer. N45.6 billion has been processed, ensuring that no student is left behind due to financial hardship.

“Jobs are returning. Over 400,000 have been created through micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). The tech sector is seeing unprecedented investment, signaling a new era for Nigerian innovation.

“The solid minerals sector is another goldmine in the making. It is valued at over $700 billion and is finally getting the attention it deserves. If managed well, Nigeria could soon rival top global mining nations.

“More beneficial to our belt was the recent signing into law by Mr. President the bill for the establishment of the South-South Development Commission, recently passed by the National Assembly. We commend Mr. President for this act of benevolence to the South-South geopolitical zones and other five zonal belts that benefitted from the presidential gesture.

HOSTCOM also commended the president for signing into law the bill establishing the South-South Development Commission, which they believe will complement existing development agencies in the region, including the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), to accelerate progress.

While asking for more time for the President to complete the work he has started, HOSTCOM added, “Politics is about choices. In 2027, Nigerians must choose between continuity and chaos; between stability and the unknown”.

The Human Rights Writers Association has urged President Bola Tinubu to extend the naira-for-crude deal between the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited and local refineries, including Dangote Refinery

The group warned that the termination of the deal could lead to a sharp rise in fuel prices and worsen economic hardship for Nigerians.

In a statement yesterday, HURIWA’s National Coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, called on Tinubu to direct his economic team to renegotiate the deal to prevent further strain on struggling households and businesses.

“In the spirit of the Sallah celebrations and given the public shows of supplications to God by the President and other public office holders as part of the end of the fasting and lenting period, we are praying President Tinubu to direct his Coordinating Minister for the Economy and the Minister of Finance to transparently and rapidly reach agreement to continue the naira-to-crude deal with local crude oil refineries, including the Dangote Petroleum refinery.

“We make this public supplication and appeal because any alteration to this deal would mean excruciating hardships and the massive affliction of poverty on millions of the already suffering, struggling and multidimensionally poor households, the statement read.

The naira-for-crude arrangement, introduced in October 2024 and expiring on March 31, 2025, allowed local refineries to receive crude from NNPCL with payments made in naira. With the deal now ended, oil marketers have projected an increase in petrol pump prices if the deal is not renewed.

Onwubiko cautioned that higher fuel costs could force small businesses reliant on petrol generators to shut down, leading to job losses and worsening poverty levels.

HURIWA told President Bola Ahmed Tinubu that our assessment of the public perception of the failure to keep the implementation of the naira-to-crude deal showed that more and many more Nigerians would be thrown out of work given that the operational costs of running small and medium scale businesses that depend on privately generated electricity power supply which come basically from petrol-powered generators, means immediate closure of hundreds of thousands of businesses and eventual dismissal of thousands of private sector workers.

He added, HURIWA argued basically that the most affected segment of the society are the over 133 million multidimensionally poor households going by even the old 2018 statistical data released by the National Bureau of Statistics.

HURIWA reminded President Tinubu that last year, World Bank projected that several millions of Nigerians automatically became multidimensionally poorer than we were in 2018 because of the excruciating costs of living crisis in Nigeria.

Citing the World Bank and National Bureau of Statistics, HURIWA noted that over 133 million Nigerians are already classified as multidimensionally poor, with rising living costs further worsening their situation.

The group urged the Tinubu administration to act swiftly, warning that ignoring the economic realities could push millions into greater hardship.

Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) stalwart, Dele Momodu, has criticised President Bola Tinubu’s suspension of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu and the Rivers State House of Assembly for six months, labelling the move as anti-democratic.

Momodu argued on Channels TVs The Morning Brief yesterday that the decision contradicts the democratic ideals Tinubu once advocated.

“I think it is very unfortunate. I know President Tinubu very, very, very well. Though I’ve not been in the same party with him and all that, we were together in exile, and he fought gallantly for this democracy. So a lot of us, co-comrades at that time, are actually very embarrassed that we have a pro-democracy leader in government, and yet what we are witnessing is worse than dictatorship”, Momodu remarked.

He continued, “And I have said it openly so many times, in many open letters, you can fail in economy, no problem; people will forgive you and say you’re not a professor of economics. You can fail in other areas, but don’t fail in democracy.

“You must deepen our democracy, which President Goodluck Jonathan succeeded in doing, which Obasanjo succeeded in doing, despite allegations and accusations of a third term attempt, still managed to hand over power to President YarAdua”.

Momodu urged Tinubu to reassess his stance and reconsider his course of action.

“I’m pleading with President Bola Tinubu, Please don’t kill democracy in Nigeria. Everybody who loves him will tell him this. I don’t; I’ve not asked him for anything, but we love him for his contributions to the motivation in the back, which is what is going down the drain”, he asserted.

Additionally, Momodu accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of suppressing opposition voices and cautioned Tinubu against being misled by his advisers.

“The only thing that can guarantee a second term is to do your job well. You do not need to intimidate anybody”, the former presidential candidate said.

The tenure of the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Immigration Service, NIS, Kemi Nandap has been extended till December 31, 2026, by President Bola Tinubu.

The extension was disclosed in a statement signed by Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga yesterday.

The President commended Nandap for her leadership, stressing improvements in border management, immigration modernisation, and national security under her watch.

Under her leadership, the Nigeria Immigration Service has witnessed significant advancements in its core mandate, with notable improvements in border management, modernisation of immigration processes and national security measures.

President Tinubu commended the Comptroller-General for her exemplary leadership and urged her to continue dedicating herself to the Services strategic priorities, which align with his administrations Renewed Hope Agenda, the statement read.

Nandap joined the NIS on October 9, 1989 and was appointed as Comptroller-General on March 1, 2024, with an initial tenure set to end on August 31, 2025.

The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rep. Benjamin Kalu, has expressed sympathy for the victims who lost their valuables in the fire at the Onitsha Main Market in Anambra State.

According to reports, a fire outbreak broke out over the weekend at Onitsha Main Market in the states commercial hub from one of the markets buildings and quickly spread to a nearby structure.

Kalu sent a message to the affected traders and property owners urging the relevant security agencies to swiftly investigate the incident to determine the cause and prevent future occurrences.

He commended the fire service agency and individuals who made efforts to put off the inferno and urged the traders and residents to adhere to safety regulations and precautionary measures to prevent future occurrences.

The Deputy Speaker, who expressed relief that no life was lost, called on the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and other relevant agencies to immediately provide relief materials for victims to cushion the impact of the incident.

Edison Ehie, the Chief of Staff to suspended Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, has taken legal action against former Rivers State Head of Service, George Nwaeke, over allegations of arson and defamation.

Ehie denied any involvement in the burning of the Rivers State House of Assembly complex, which occurred on October 30, 2023.

During an interview on Channels Televisions Sunday Politics, Ehie dismissed Nwaeke’s claims as baseless and defamatory, stating that he had no knowledge of the arson until he heard the news like everyone else.

“It is very important to clarify that I was not, I had no hand, and was not part of the burning down of the Rivers State House of Assembly”, Ehie asserted.

He further revealed that he had instructed his legal team to pursue a case of criminal libel against Nwaeke, challenging him to provide proof of his allegations.

“I will not join issues completely with Mr. George Nwaeke because I have already instructed my lawyers to file an issue of criminal libel against him, and I hope he is very prepared to substantiate his claims and his allegations”, he added.

Nwaeke had accused both Governor Fubara and Ehie of orchestrating the fire that gutted the state assembly complex amid a heated political crisis. The allegations have since sparked tensions within Rivers State’s political landscape.

Ehie’s legal action signals an effort to clear his name and hold Nwaeke accountable for what he describes as false and damaging accusations.

Three officials of the Lagos State House of Assembly (LSHA) have tendered formal apologies to the Department of State Services (DSS) after being arrested for assaulting DSS operatives during the recent leadership crisis at the legislative house.

The Assembly had requested DSS presence through a letter dated February 14, 2025, signed by Acting Clerk A.T.B. Ottun. The letter, with reference number LSHA/FAD/0/7554/323, specifically asked the DSS to secure the facility from February 15 until further notice.

However, upon arrival, DSS personnel were reportedly attacked by three Assembly workers. Relying on CCTV footage, the security agency arrested the suspects and subsequently filed charges against them.

In separate letters of apology dated March 28, 2025, the arrested officials Ibrahim Abdul-Akeem Olarenwaju (Public Affairs Officer), Miss Adetola Fatimoh Oluwatosin, and Adetu Samshudeen Adekunle (both officers with the Sergeant-at-Arms unit) expressed regret for their actions.

The apologies, addressed to DSS Director General, Mr. Adeola Oluwatosin Ajayi, were routed through the State Director of Security, Lagos State Command.

One of the letters read: I, Ibrahim Abdul-Akeem Olarenwaju, hereby tender my unreserved apology for any act or omission that I might have caused your distinguished office and personnel in the course of my duty at the hallowed chamber of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Alausa, on the 27th day of February, 2025.

The other assembly workers echoed similar sentiments, pledging to conduct themselves appropriately in the future and avoid any actions that could undermine DSS personnel.

During the leadership crisis at the Assembly, several media outlets had initially published reports claiming that DSS operatives invaded the legislative complex. However, upon reviewing the facts, many media organizations retracted their reports and issued apologies to the DSS.

This development highlighted the importance of accurate reporting and the need for professionalism in handling security-related matters at public institutions.

Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has felicitated with our Muslim brothers and sisters commemorating the Eid- el- Fitr with their colleagues all over the world, after successfully concluding their fast, advising that all concerned should allow the spirit of the Eid to be deeply felt in our society.

He also prayed that the spirit of the Eid should bring joy, renewed faith, and abundant blessings to every home.

Taking to his social media platform on Sunday, March 30, Governor Uzodimma further prayed that the Muslim faithful should see the occasion as one to foster harmony, mutual respect, and collective progress in our country.

His words: “On behalf of the Government and good people of Imo State, I felicitate with the Muslim faithfuls in Imo State and across the nation, as they commemorate this year’s Eid el-Fitr.

“With compassion and generosity guiding our interactions during this season, strengthening the bonds that hold us together as a nation, it is my prayer that the spirit of Eid be deeply felt in our society, fostering harmony, mutual respect, and collective progress.

“May this Eid bring joy, renewed faith, and abundant blessings to every home.”

The federal government declared Monday, March 31, 2025 and Tuesday, April 1, 2025 as public holidays to enable the Muslim faithful to celebrate the Eid-el- Fitr.

The boxing world is in mourning following the tragic passing of former National and West African light-heavyweight champion, Segun ‘Success’ Olanrewaju, who died after collapsing during a fight in Ghana on Saturday.

Olanrewaju was competing against Ghanaian boxer, Jon Mbanugu at Fight Night 15 of the Ghana Professional Boxing League at Bukom Boxing Arena when he suddenly lost consciousness.

Reports indicated that he was ahead on points before the unfortunate incident occurred.

A widely circulated video on social media captures the moment he collapsed in the ring, further shocking fans and the boxing community.

Olanrewaju, a highly respected figure in Nigerian boxing, held both National and West African light-heavyweight titles during his career.

His contributions to the sport have been widely recognized, with tributes pouring in from colleagues, fans, and sports officials who remember him for his dedication and impact on boxing in Nigeria and across West Africa.

President Bola Tinubu yesterday commended Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Nyesom Wike, for the infrastructural transformation, expressing the hope that such good performance will give victory to the All Progressives Congress, APC, especially in the FCT in 2027.

President Tinubu belongs to the ruling APC, while Wike is officially known as a member of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party, PDP.

The President spoke at the Presidential Villa, Abuja when Wike led a delegation of prominent FCT residents on a traditional sallah homage to mark end of Ramadan fasting and Eid-el-Fitr holiday.

In his remarks, the President described the FCT Minister as ‘Mr. Infrastructure’ and listed some of the various initiatives and projects executed by the Minister, stressing that they have translated to better lives for Abuja residents, for which he remains grateful to the Minister.

President Tinubu, who did not hide his appreciation on the calibre of persons in the delegation, said: “I could see the diversity of men and women here, I must thank the Honorable Minister of FCT. It’s worth it.

“⁣It is nothing other than a privilege to be the landlord of every one of us in Abuja, Federal Capital Territory.

“And when we started, he came up with a lot of good ideas to liberate the bureaucracy, bring forward-looking, progressive thinking to the administration, and giving the opportunity to many of you that would have still been hindered by property rights. ⁣

“The independent Civil Service Commission solution and all of that that we discussed give opportunity for upward mobility and promotions that is consistent with the civil service structure, the Area Councils structure, and the indiscriminate development in the face of dwindling resources.

“I remember the day Nyesom Wike came to me and said ‘please, take us out of this problem of Treasury Single Account (TSA), so that I can do more work, and I achieve more’.⁣ Then I said, ‘okay, tell me what you’re about to do’.

“And he presented it, and I threw in my own political guide: ‘Would that give me any opportunity for my party (APC) to win the election in FCT?’⁣ I said ‘I know where you are coming from, your own party (PDP) or my party. If this thing goes too much in your own favour, you will lose your job.’ Then he said, ‘okay, we settle that, Oga.’⁣

“And things started changing rapidly, and I started looking at the opening up of the rural areas, of abandoned projects, and the residence of the Vice- President that has been abandoned for years came alive.

“The health centers are being rehabilitated. The health facilities of the residents of FCT are being upgraded. Our teachers at schools are being rehabilitated, buildings are furnished. Thank you Wike.⁣”

Continuing, Tinubu said: “We wouldn’t have been able to open our mouths to even celebrate, if not, because of the progressive ideas you have given. Today, we are living in peace and security is improving. There is satisfaction in our output. The hunger is coming down. Food prices lowering. We are able to go to the market and do business.

“Our people are looking for results. They are looking for comfort. They are praying for good health. They are looking for a fairer, somebody with the heart. It is not about me, it’s about every one of us, and the diversity of Nigeria is being proved by NyesomWike.

“Strengthen that diversity to develop prosperity, seeing that we are all members of one family living together in the same house but we are staying in different rooms. We belong to one family of hope and belief in Nigeria. ⁣

“I thank all of you for believing in that. For the cooperation collaboration, and believing in thee positive idea that we can live in peace and harmony with one another, regardless of ethnic, religious diversity and faith. I thank you.⁣”

The President further stated: “Surprisingly, Nyesom Wike is not from the North. He’s not an Hausa man. He’s from the southern part of Nigeria, and his ability to work in the centre of the Northern part of Nigeria is yielding fruits. That is a very good reflection of our diversity that we must use for our prosperity.

“l’m just a custodian of your trust. It’s only Almighty Allah that gives power. And he says, ‘if I give it to you, you must use it in the righteous way. You must be humane. You must follow my teachings. And do great things. To show that, I granted you that privilege as a temporary article of faith, and I’m the only one who can take it away from you if you don’t know how to use it.”

Fielding questions from State House correspondents after the visit, Wike expressed joy that the President described him as Mr. Infrastructure, saying: “I feel very happy that my boss has confidence in me. If your boss, in the public, says that you are doing well, that, of course, is an encouragement for you to continue doing the job that you’ve been assigned.

“For us, we’re happy to be identified in this administration and we’ll continue to do what Abuja people will be happy with. So I’m happy each time Mr. President talks about us and tries to say the little we have done, that means that he’s watching and we will not disappoint him.”

Tragedy struck along the Malumfashi-Kafur Road in Katsina State yesterday morning, as a lone Hummer bus accident resulted in the death of nine passengers.

According to the Katsina State Sector Commander of the FRSC, AliyuMa’aji, “Nine passengers died on the spot, while 11 others sustained varying degrees of injuries and were rushed to the hospital for treatment.”

“Preliminary investigation has identified speeding and loss of control as the primary factors in the crash. Motorists have been cautioned by the FRSC commander to exercise extreme care and refrain from speeding, overloading, and reckless driving, particularly during festive periods.”

Considering the potential for increased traffic during festive periods, the FRSC commander implored motorists to prioritize safety by exercising extreme care and refrain from speeding, overloading, and reckless driving.

Ma’aji pointed out that despite improved roads infrastructure in Katsina, reckless driving continue to be a major cause of fatal accidents.

Former Governor of Anambra State and presidential candidate of Labour Party in the 2023 election, Mr. Peter Obi, has visited victims of the Onitsha Market fire incident.

It would be recalled that fire last week gutted parts of two separate markets in Onitsha – electronics market at Iweka Road and warehouses at Ifejirika Street, within the Main Market.

During the visit, Obi sympathized with the owners of the warehouses and traders who own the shops where the incident happened.

He described the experience as heartbreaking, lamenting the magnitude of loss suffered by the traders. He observed that goods worth several billions of naira were consumed by the inferno.

Obi expressed concern over the impact of the disaster on the victims, many of whom rely solely on their businesses for livelihood.

He said: “I am calling on well to do Nigerians, those who can, should come to the aid of these people. In moments like this, our shared humanity must prevail.

“Let us come together to restore hope, rebuild livelihoods, and reaffirm the spirit of community that defines us.”

One of the affected traders, Mr. Jeremiah Nwabueze, who showed the presidential candidate around, expressed gratitude to Obi for the visit, describing it as deeply consoling.

He noted that Obi’s presence brought a sense of comfort and solidarity at a time of immense loss.

By Abah Sunday, Abuja

Nigeria’s National Security Adviser (NSA) Nuhu Ribadu, and the Coordinator, National Counter-Terrorism Centre, Office of the National Security Adviser (NCTC-ONSA), Major-Gen. Adamu Laka, in their separate messages shard to newsmen yesterday in Abuja, saluted and felicitated Muslims on their successful completion of the Ramadan fasting and celebration of Eid-el-Fitr.

The NSA in a statement self-signed and made available to newsmen, noted that the sacred season embodies the virtues of resilience, discipline, and sacrifice, urging the cooperation of all against threats to national security.

He said, “On behalf of the management and staff of the Office of the National Security Adviser, I wish to extend heartfelt greetings to Muslims across Nigeria and around the world on the occasion of Eid-el-Fitr, marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan. This sacred period embodies the virtues of resilience, discipline, and sacrifice. As we celebrate, I urge you to bring to bear these virtues in our collective efforts to strengthen national security.

“Your cooperation in the fight against terrorism and other threats remains vital in ensuring peace and stability across our Nation, particularly in our commitment to a ‘whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach.’ Therefore, the continued collaboration between the government, religious leaders, communities, and security agencies in combating terrorism and extremism remains paramount.

“The celebration of Eid-el-Fitr serves as a moment for deep reflection, gratitude, and a renewed commitment to peace and national unity. It is thus pertinent for Muslims and all Nigerians to come together in unity, embracing the core principles of love and togetherness that are essential for our national progress, Peace, unity, and compassion are the core values underpinning the true spirit of Eid-el-Fitr; therefore, Nigerians must continue to uphold the virtues of empathy, kindness, and tolerance during the festivities and beyond.

“I appeal to all Nigerians to remain vigilant against any forces that threaten our peace, and together, we can build a Nigeria where all citizens, irrespective of their faith, can live in harmony and prosperity.

“Our diversity is our strength, and despite the challenges we face as a Nation, we remain united by a shared commitment to peace and stability. The administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and this Office uphold these values, and under my leadership, we are dedicated to ensuring the safety and security of all Nigerians regardless of background or faith.
We remain steadfast in our mission to enhance Nigeria’s resilience against terrorism and violent extremism while promoting peaceful coexistence and national security. I wish you all a happy Eid-el-Fitr celebration.”

Similarly, the Coordinator, National Counter-Terrorism Centre (NCTC) in the NSA’s Office, Maj-Gen A.G. Laka, in a message shared on Sunday said, “We want to extend our warmest wishes for joy, peace, and prosperity to you and your loved ones, May this Eld Muberak be filled with blessings and happy lasting moments.”

The Progressive Governors Forum has congratulated Muslim faithful across the country for the successful completion of this year’s Ramadan.

The forum urged them to continue to pray for the peace and stability of Nigeria as well for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for Allah to grant him greater wisdom.

In a statement personally signed by the Chairman of the Forum and Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma, the Forum noted that the end of Ramadan was indeed a joyous occasion after days of fasting, prayer and spiritual renewal.

Gov. Uzodimma

The Forum reminded the Muslim faithful of the values of love, compassion, and self-discipline as embodied in the fasting and prayer, saying they should employ it for nation building.

“Let us all, regardless of faith, show kindness, promote harmony, and work together for a stronger Nigeria,” the statement added.

The Forum wished all Muslims and their families a joyous Eid Mubarak celebration.

A 14-year-old Secondary School student, identified as Nicknes Ayo, has committed suicide after her mother pressured her to name the man, who impregnated her.

The incident happened on Saturday at Egba in the Agatu local government area of Benue State.

A neighbor, who identified herself as Mama Enyi told our Correspondent on phone that the girl who was schooling in Otukpo returned home on Thursday with signs of pregnancy.

“Her mother, who noticed some signs of pregnancy, inquired from her if she was pregnant or not. It was after much pressure and a threat to be taken to a clinic in the village that the girl ran away.

“She was later found in her room, having taken a substance suspected to be bottle Gammalin, and she was rushed to the village clinic known as ‘Ghana Clinic’ in the village.

When contacted, the Medical Director of the Clinic, Dr. Oyaje Sule, popularly known as Dr. Ghana, said that the girl was brought to her clinic on Saturday morning.

He said, “It is true, they brought a 14-year-old girl to my clinic this morning and was suspected to have taken gammalin, when her mother pressured her to disclose who was responsible for her pregnancy.

“But when the situation was getting out of hand, I referred her to the hospital in Obagaji, headquarters of Agatu local government, unfortunately, she died on the way.

“As I am talking to you, the girl whose age was put between 13 and 14 years old had been buried. Unfortunately, she lost her father a few years ago”.

Efforts to reach the chairman of the local government, Melvin James, were not successful, as his phone was switched off.

Similarly, Catherine Anene, the Police Public Relations Officer for the State Command, did not pick up her phone when contacted.

The federal government has banned fuel tankers with a 60,000 litres capacity from loading and transporting petroleum products from the various depots across the country, effective from March 1, 2025.

Also, by the fourth quarter of 2025, the transportation of petroleum in trucks exceeding 45,000 litres will also be prohibited.

This move comes after a series of tragic tanker explosions, which have claimed numerous lives and caused significant property damage. In a meeting held on Wednesday with key industry stakeholders, the NMDPRA outlined these measures as the first step in tackling the ongoing safety crisis.

Chief executive of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA) Farouk Ahmed, who announced the ban, said this is part of the measures taken by the federal government to curtail the incidences of tanker explosions and fires in the country, following a series of tragic explosions that have claimed numerous lives.

Recall that in January 2025 alone, over 100 lives were lost in tanker-related accidents. The most devastating incident occurred on January 18 when a petrol tanker exploded at Dikko junction along the Abuja-Kaduna expressway in Niger State, resulting in the deaths of at least 98 people. The explosion happened when local residents attempted to scoop fuel from the overturned tanker after an accident. The resulting fire left dozens of people severely burned.

A week later, another explosion occurred along the Enugu-Onitsha Expressway, killing 11 individuals. In this case, a tanker suffered brake failure, toppled, and leaked fuel, which ignited and caused a deadly blaze.

Available data revealed that nearly 493 fatalities have occurred from tanker-related incidents over the past three years, with 121 deaths already reported in just the first two months of 2025 alone.

Ahmed, who was represented by executive director, Distribution, Systems, Storage and Retailing Infrastructure, Ogbugo Ukoha, during a news briefing in Abuja, on Wednesday, also said the ban will extend the loading or transportation of petroleum products on any truck in excess of 45,000 litres by the fourth quarter of 2025.

“The breaking news from today today’s meeting comprising DSS, FEMA, Federal Fire Service, Road Safety, NATO, NUPENG, MEMAN, PETROAN, IPMAN, DAPMAN, SON, ONSA, is that beginning 1st March, any truck with an axle load that is carrying more than 60,000 litres of hydrocarbon will not be allowed to load at any loading depot.

“Let me repeat that again. Beginning 1st March, trucks with a capacity in excess of 60,000 litres will not be allowed to load in any loading depot for petroleum products.

“By Q4 of 2025, we will also preclude the loading or transportation of petroleum products on any truck in excess of 45,000 litres. So that is the breaking news for today.

“This is just one out of ten measures that stakeholders have agreed that need to be addressed if we want to mitigate the high level of trucks in transit accidents.

“The important thing about this is that for the first time consensus was built amongst all stakeholders and we are continuing to encourage that we work together cohesively to deliver a safe transportation of petroleum products across the country, “ Ahmed said.

The NMDPRA also confirmed that the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) has not imported the Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) petrol this year.

The confirmation came over the news reports that the state-owned oil firm imported PMS burns faster than that of Dangote Refinery.

The NMDPRA said all the petroleum products imported to the country this year are of standard quality.

It recalled after the removal of subsidy on petrol, national consumption of the product declined from an average of 66 million litre (ml/d) to 50 ml/d.

According to him, less than 60 per cent of the national consumption is met from domestic refineries while the shortfall is imported by Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs).

He explained that the contribution of local refineries has been less than a 60 per cent shortfall in January and February 2025.

The executive director said 50 per cent of the shortfall is sourced from importation.

He however specifically noted that none of the OMCs that owned refineries have imported petroleum products this year.

“So just for clarity, what I am saying is that the contribution of local refining towards the sufficiency is less than 60 per cent currently. January and February 2025 is less than 50 of what we require daily. And that shortfall is sourced by way of importation. Even though none of the OMCs that owned refineries have imported PMS this year.”

On quality, he said the NMDPRA always insists that all petroleum products meet the specifications of the Standard Organization of Nigeria (SON) and the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) 2021.

According to him, the Authority does not permit the distribution of products that fall short of quality standards.

“You must meet those specifications, otherwise we will not let those products be distributed,” he said.

He said some people have been releasing bogus claims concerning product quality on social media.

He said, “Finally, let me just say a word about what the responsibility we all bear. The regulator will usually be more circumspect and not run, chase, or respond to every comment that is made by the public.

”But it is important that people who dabble within the social media space are reminded that it is disrespectful if you imagine that Nigerians are gullible.

“Innocent Nigerians are discerning enough to know that energies need to be directed positively. So people who make unscientific claims, that make bogus data expertise claims of that, are really not helping the situation.

“As a regulator, we are working very hard in compliance with the presidential and statutory mandates we have to support the local refineries to build capacity to the point that Nigerians will have sufficient products and not just quality but pricing is also done in a transparent, competitive and fair way.”

…As African School of Governance Launched

A former Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Prof. Kingsley Moghalu, has emphasized the need for Africa to address governance and leadership challenges, stating that getting these right is crucial for economic growth and development.

Moghalu made this statement in Lagos during the launch of the African School of Governance (ASG).

The ASG was established in response to concerns about governance and leadership structures across the continent. It was founded by Rwandan President Paul Kagame and former Ethiopian Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn.

According to the founders, the school’s mission is centered on three core pillars:

Providing innovative public policy education

Conducting cutting-edge research

Creating a platform for policy engagement

These pillars aim to foster transformative governance rooted in Africa’s unique values and opportunities.

The school, which began its admission process on February 1st and will commence academic activities in September, has appointed Prof. Moghalu—a globally recognized expert—as its inaugural president.

At the Lagos launch, moderated by Vanguard columnist Donu Kogbara, Moghalu elaborated on the school’s objectives and future aspirations.

He stated: “ASG is set to systematically address governance and leadership issues through our three thematic areas. With the right leadership, we can drive economic growth and development. We aim to train future leaders with a mindset that promotes equality, inclusivity, and a spirit of public service.”

Moghalu highlighted the school’s curriculum, which is currently under review, and noted that the faculty includes eminent African leaders such as: HE Olusegun Obasanjo – Former President of Nigeria and HE Paul Kagame – President of Rwanda

Makhtar Diop – Managing Director, International Finance Corporation (IFC) and former Senegalese Minister of Finance

The ASG also collaborates with leading global institutions, including the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy at the University of Singapore and the Mastercard Foundation.

According to Moghalu, the school’s short-term goals include: Recruiting top-tier faculty and Refurbishing its six-storey campus donated by the Rwandan government

In the medium term, the school aims to graduate its first cohort within two years. In the long term (10 years), ASG envisions its alumni making significant impacts across Africa and the global stage.

Providing an overview of the academic offerings, Ms. Ngozichukwu Njemanze, Director and Senior Policy Adviser to the ASG President, outlined the various programmes available:

Master of Public Administration (MPA): A two-year, full-time flagship programme

Executive Master of Public Administration (EMPA): A two-year, part-time hybrid programme

General Executive Courses: Short programmes lasting two to three weeks

Young Professional Training Programme: Six weeks, full-time

Senior Leadership Fellowship: Six-month residency programme

Njemanze also noted that fellowships and scholarships will be offered through a need-blind admission process.

Prospective applicants must pay a non-refundable $50 application fee and complete their applications online by uploading the required documents.

With its innovative approach to leadership training and support from global partners, ASG is poised to become a driving force for transformative governance and sustainable development across Africa.