Author: Gabby

Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji has lauded the remarkable participation of All Progressives Congress (APC) members across 177 wards in the state during the party’s presidential primaries. He described the exercise as a clear endorsement of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership and a testament to the party’s unity and democratic processes.

Governor Oyebanji took part in the affirmation process at his polling unit in Ward 6, Ikogosi-Ekiti, arriving around 10:35 a.m. After casting his vote, he spoke with reporters, emphasizing that the exercise was peaceful and orderly. He noted that it reflected the APC’s dedication to strengthening internal democracy at all levels.

The governor pointed out that the high enthusiasm among party members demonstrated their united support for Tinubu’s leadership. He stressed that the process was smooth and free of conflict.

Calling the event historic, Oyebanji highlighted that for the first time, every party member had the chance to directly participate in selecting the presidential flag bearer. He applauded the APC for fostering inclusive decision-making and described the primaries as transparent.

“The excitement here shows our members exercising their democratic rights. This is what internal democracy looks like in the APC. Since the primaries started weeks ago, people have been voting for their preferred candidates. Today stands out because members now have a voice in choosing the presidential candidate. In my ward, 620 out of 624 registered members voted for President Tinubu to retain the party’s ticket. Reports from across the state confirm the exercise was peaceful. I commend the APC for deepening democracy and giving every member a platform to decide,” Oyebanji said.

He expressed confidence that President Tinubu would secure a sweeping victory in the general elections, citing the overwhelming support during the primaries as proof of broad acceptance among party members and the electorate. “If performance determines electoral success, then there is no doubt about APC and President Tinubu’s victory in the January 2027 election,” he added.

President Bola Tinubu has praised the conduct of the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary elections across Nigeria, calling them a vivid reflection of true internal democracy within the party. During the presidential primaries held at Ikoyi-Obalende Ward L2 in Lagos on Saturday, Tinubu emphasized that the process has significantly enhanced democratic practices.

He lauded party members for their disciplined participation, enthusiasm, and unwavering support for democratic ideals. Tinubu noted that the primaries showcase grassroots politics in action, where every party member enjoys the right to be involved. He stated that the peaceful and well-organized nature of the exercise confirms the APC’s commitment to transparent and inclusive procedures.

The President reiterated that the party remains dedicated to democratic processes that empower members at the grassroots level to freely elect their leaders and representatives. He stressed that such involvement is crucial for sustainable democratic growth.

Tinubu also commended electoral officials, party leaders, and security agencies for ensuring a credible and peaceful election. He urged Nigerians to continue backing democratic institutions and national unity.

Furthermore, he reaffirmed his administration’s focus on democratic values, good governance, and policies aimed at improving citizens’ welfare and strengthening political stability across the country.

The gruesome beheading of a schoolteacher in Oyo State is more than a murder—it is a public execution of the nation’s conscience, according to human rights lawyer and IPOB lead counsel, Sir Ifeanyi Ejiofor.

Ejiofor asserts that the killing of Mr. Michael Oyedokun, a math teacher at Community High School in Esiele, Oriire LGA, is not an isolated tragedy but a profound indictment of Nigeria’s failing security, eroded humanity, and dysfunctional governance.

He argues that Nigeria failed Mr. Oyedokun, warning that a country that neglects its teachers is digging its own grave. The incident, he says, symbolizes how insecurity, government inaction, and institutional decay have shattered the nation’s moral foundation.

“What is even more disturbing is the chilling prospect that, in the future, some of these terrorists may be rehabilitated and reintegrated into society, while the memory of the innocent teacher they slaughtered fades into forgotten news archives,” Ejiofor stated.

He highlighted that Oyedokun’s only crime was being present at school, at the right time, fulfilling his duty to teach and mentor children. This act of service cost him his life.

“Can there be a greater tragedy than schools becoming slaughterhouses, classrooms turning into terror theaters, and educators being treated as bargaining chips by murderous extremists?” Ejiofor asked.

He reminded that every judge, lawyer, doctor, professor, engineer, governor, and president once sat before a teacher. Yet, paradoxically, those who build society are met with contempt, poor pay, and institutional abandonment.

Ejiofor extended deep sympathy to teachers nationwide, Oyedokun’s family, traumatized students, and all affected by this barbaric act. He called on the federal and Oyo state governments, security agencies, and law enforcement to act swiftly and decisively to arrest and prosecute the perpetrators without delay.

He insisted that everyone involved in the conspiracy, regardless of status or political protection, must be identified and brought to justice.

The Ariko community in Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State is appealing to both the federal and state authorities for urgent action to free 37 worshipers who were kidnapped during Easter Sunday church attacks. The abductors have set a ransom of one billion naira and 35 motorcycles for the release of the captives.

Dr. Joseph David Ariko, President of the Kuturmi Development Association (KUDA), disclosed to DAILY POST that the community cannot raise such a huge sum. The kidnappers, he said, call almost every two days insisting on the full payment without negotiation. The victims were taken from St. Augustine Catholic Church, ECWA, and Baptist churches, and have now been held for about 45 days, causing immense fear and uncertainty among families and residents.

During the Easter Sunday attacks, armed bandits stormed three churches, killing five worshipers before abducting 37 others. The prolonged captivity has disrupted social and economic life in Ariko, with many residents living in constant dread. Affected families are struggling emotionally and financially.

Dr. Ariko stressed that the community looks solely to the government for rescue, as they lack the means to meet the ransom demand. He urged security agencies to intensify efforts to secure the victims’ release and restore confidence among residents. Community leaders also called on well-meaning Nigerians, humanitarian organizations, and other stakeholders to support the community in this trying time.

A tragic road accident on the Kaduna-Zaria Expressway has claimed the life of Major S. Sayyadi, a senior officer attached to the Headquarters Infantry Corps Command (ICC). The incident occurred near the Julius Berger gate, close to Jaji Military Cantonment.

Security analyst Zagazola Makama, citing military sources, reported the accident on Saturday. The crash took place on Thursday when the officer’s vehicle collided with a Sino truck that had slowed to enter a railway construction site operated by China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) in the New Barracks area, Jaji.

Emergency responders from the Armed Forces Command and Staff College (AFCSC) and the Infantry Corps Command promptly arrived at the scene. The officer sustained severe head injuries and was pronounced dead at the spot.

His remains were transported to a medical facility and later moved via military ambulance to Katsina State for burial. He was interred according to Islamic rites.

Military authorities have extended condolences to the family, describing the loss as a significant blow to the armed forces.

Former Ekiti State Governor, Dr. John Kayode Fayemi, has expressed profound grief over the death of His Royal Majesty, Oba Adebanji Ajibade Alabi, Afuntade I, the Alawe of Ilawe-Ekiti. In his condolence message, Fayemi extended heartfelt sympathies to the Ekiti State Government, the Ilawe royal family, the immediate family of the late ruler, and the entire Ilawe-Ekiti community.

Fayemi described the monarch’s demise as a huge loss to Ekiti State and the entire country. He recalled that during the reign of the late Alawe, Ilawe-Ekiti witnessed significant development and unity among its people. The former governor noted that the late monarch’s commitment to culture preservation and his relentless work for the growth of his domain and Ekiti State will be remembered for generations.

Fayemi highlighted that Oba Adebanji Ajibade Alabi was an accomplished diplomat who served the nation for over 25 years, attaining the rank of Deputy Director in several foreign missions. He described him as a diligent, upright, and dedicated public servant. The former governor also pointed out that the late monarch chaired the Ekiti State Council of Traditional Rulers from 2019 to 2021 during Fayemi’s administration, where he showed exceptional leadership by focusing on the welfare of the council, fostering harmony among chiefs, and remaining committed to the state’s advancement.

Fayemi stated that the 14-year rule of the monarch will be remembered for his great contributions to community development, investments in the well-being of his subjects, and a legacy of service, integrity, and piety. He added that the passing of the king is a personal loss to him and his family, urging the royal family, the people of Ilawe-Ekiti, and all associates of the departed ruler to find comfort in the remarkable legacy he left. The ex-governor prayed for the peaceful rest of the monarch’s soul and for God to grant the family strength to bear the irreparable loss.

The traditional rulers from Kwara North Senatorial District have extended their heartfelt appreciation to President Bola Tinubu, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, and the All Progressives Congress (APC) hierarchy for endorsing the region’s ambition to produce the state’s next governor in 2027. Alhaji Ibrahim Umar Bologi II, the Etsu Patigi and Vice Chairman of the Kwara State Traditional Council of Chiefs, delivered the gratitude on behalf of his peers.

He characterized the decision as a historic breakthrough, emphasizing that it reflects fairness, inclusiveness, and a sincere dedication to ensuring political equilibrium across the state. The Etsu Patigi stated, “Supporting Kwara North’s aspiration shows that our leaders are genuinely committed to justice, unity, and maintaining tranquility throughout all parts of Kwara. This move has revitalized the hopes of our people, enhanced political harmony, and strengthened trust in the APC at both state and national levels.”

The monarch went on to commend Governor AbdulRazaq for his statesmanlike approach and unwavering commitment to equity, noting that his administration has consistently fostered unity, peace, and progress in Kwara. He also expressed gratitude to President Tinubu and the APC leadership for heeding the long-standing demand from Kwara North residents. According to him, finally addressing the call for power rotation to the district will be remembered as a significant milestone in the state’s political history.

In their collective message, the traditional rulers pledged to continue supporting peace, unity, and democratic principles. They concluded by offering prayers for wisdom, good health, and divine guidance for President Tinubu, Governor AbdulRazaq, and all APC leaders.

The Nigerian military has achieved notable victories in its ongoing campaign against insurgency in the Northeast. According to a statement from Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, the Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force North East Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), troops have rescued kidnapped individuals, detained terrorist accomplices, confiscated weapons, and seen an increasing number of insurgent relatives turning themselves in.

During a patrol along the Ngoshe–Amuda axis in Gwoza Local Government Area, soldiers intercepted and freed four abductees: Salamatu Sidiq Ali (19), Halima Idrisa (20), Umar Abdullahi (3), and Mustapha Abdullahi (4). These individuals had been seized during a terrorist assault on Ngoshe community on March 3, 2026. Investigations suggest that the hostages were held in a terrorist camp but were liberated as military pressure escalated on hideouts in the Mandara Mountains. After medical checks, the freed victims were returned to their families via community leaders. To date, 65 abducted persons have been rescued, with efforts ongoing to free more.

In another development, troops at a checkpoint in Baga, Kukawa Local Government Area, arrested a suspected terrorist supporter, Mrs. Kellu Alhaji Abba (50). She was found with clothing and other supplies believed destined for a terrorist operative in the Dumba area. Similarly, along the Dalori axis, soldiers detained Mr. Amadu Abdu (50), a suspected logistics supplier transporting a large quantity of packaged goods allegedly for insurgents. Further inquiry revealed he provided supplies to terrorists in return for grazing rights. Seized items included packaged goods, a mobile phone, a cutlass, suspected illicit drugs, and cash.

Additionally, troops cooperating with local hunters apprehended four individuals suspected of cattle rustling and collaborating with terrorists at Kwaya Kusar Market. The suspects were caught with stolen livestock and are now being interrogated.

The military also reported the surrender of family members linked to Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists. Among them are Aishatu Sale (20), who gave herself up in Bama Local Government Area, and Hauwa Abubakar (70), who escaped from a terrorist enclave in the Mandara Mountains. Both stated that relentless military operations and a lack of basic necessities in terrorist camps drove their decision to flee. They have been processed and are undergoing standard procedures.

In related actions, troops recovered one AK-47 rifle and a loaded magazine along a known terrorist escape route, further weakening insurgent capabilities.

The Department of State Services (DSS) has set free a young man from Gashua in Yobe State’s Bade Local Government Area, identified as Ya’u Mohammed, after determining his detention was baseless. Additionally, the agency provided him with a sum of two million naira to assist with his return to normal life.

This was revealed by Brigadier General Dahiru Abdulsalam (Rtd), who serves as the Special Adviser on Security Matters to the Yobe State Governor. He made the disclosure during a formal handover ceremony at the DSS Yobe State Command Headquarters in Damaturu, where the service officially released Mohammed into his custody before he was reunited with his relatives.

Abdulsalam stated that his visit to the command was aimed at understanding the reasons behind Mohammed’s arrest and subsequent discharge. According to him, after a thorough review and investigation, the DSS concluded that Mohammed had no connection to the crime for which he had been held.

The security adviser described this action as unprecedented in his many years of public service. He remarked that he had never encountered a situation where a cleared suspect not only walks free but also receives financial assistance. He noted that this move reflects a clear commitment by the Director General of DSS to uphold justice, compassion, and societal reintegration.

Abdulsalam also called on other security bodies to consistently respect the rule of law and fundamental human rights, emphasizing that doing so would enhance public trust and cooperation.

Upon his release, Mohammed thanked God and described his experience as a matter of destiny and faith. He expressed gratitude for the support, which he said would help him reintegrate into society.