Category: News

The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has announced the arrest of 178 individuals linked to a range of illegal activities, including armed robbery, kidnapping, cultism, drug trafficking, and unlawful possession of weapons throughout May. In a press briefing held at the command headquarters in Ikot Akpanabia, Uyo, Commissioner of Police CP Baba Azare Mohammed revealed that law enforcement officers also recovered 69 firearms from the suspects during this period.

Commissioner Mohammed highlighted a significant achievement: the capture of a suspected drug kingpin and four associates during a raid at Okobo Ebughu, located in Mbo Local Government Area. During this operation, police confiscated 23 large sacks containing dried plant material believed to be Indian hemp, along with outboard boat engines.

The commissioner attributed these successes to a combination of intelligence-led strategies, coordinated raids, ongoing surveillance, stop-and-search operations, and targeted interventions in known crime hotspots. He issued a stern warning to criminals involved in armed robbery, kidnapping, cultism, drug trafficking, and other violent offenses, stating that there would be no safe haven for them within the state.

In his statement, Mohammed affirmed the command’s dedication to protecting lives and property through enhanced intelligence gathering, tactical operations, patrols, and community policing efforts. He emphasized that the command would persist in its aggressive crackdown to maintain peace and security across all communities in Akwa Ibom State.

The Igbo socio-cultural organization, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, through its Council of Igbo Business Leaders, has entered into a strategic partnership with the South-East Development Commission (SEDC) to foster economic advancement and integration across the region. This collaboration aims to address pressing issues such as youth unemployment and social unrest by bringing together key stakeholders for a unified effort.

During a meeting held in Enugu on Monday, Mazi Sam Ohuabunwa, Chairman of the Council of Igbo Business Leaders, emphasized the urgency of aligning investment strategies with the needs of the South-East. He noted that the region has suffered prolonged neglect due to historical, political, social, and economic factors, which have led to widespread youth joblessness and rising social problems.

Ohuabunwa outlined the Council’s mandate, which includes identifying and nurturing young Igbo entrepreneurs into major business figures, creating a unified voice for the Igbo business community, and developing markets within Igbo land. He expressed gratitude to Mark Okoye, Managing Director of SEDC, for promptly responding to their proposal and approving the meeting. He said, “This is the opportunity we have long awaited. We need to work with governments and development agencies to bring about enhanced economic development to Igbo land.”

Mark Okoye, in his remarks, stressed the importance of investment mobilization, diaspora and domestic networks, venture capital programs, SME development, capacity building, and advisory policy inputs. He called for a robust partnership to steer the region toward prosperity. “We must collaborate to ensure that our region catches up with others in terms of development,” Okoye stated.

The partnership between Ohanaeze and SEDC marks a significant step toward revitalizing the Igbo economy, with both parties committed to leveraging their resources and networks to drive sustainable growth and social stability in the South-East.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar participated in the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential primary election on Monday, casting his vote at a polling unit in Yola, Adamawa State. The exercise, he said, showcases the party’s dedication to democratic processes and national renewal.

Atiku arrived at the Ajiya Ward Polling Unit in Jimeta, Yola, where he joined other party members in the primary. In a statement posted on his X account, the former presidential aspirant described the event as a demonstration of democracy in action, emphasizing that it aligns with ADC’s vision for Nigeria’s progress.

“I joined other prospective voters of the African Democratic Congress in our party’s presidential primaries in casting my vote at the Ajiya Ward Polling Unit in Jimeta Yola, Adamawa State. This is democracy at work,” Atiku wrote. He added that the simultaneous election across 8,809 wards nationwide represents a significant step in the party’s efforts to reclaim the country and steer it toward prosperity.

The primary election is part of ADC’s preparations for the 2027 general elections, with Atiku being one of the prominent aspirants vying for the party’s ticket.

Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has disclosed that his endorsement of President Bola Tinubu for a second term in 2027 stems from a blend of ethical considerations and infrastructural progress. The governor made this known after inspecting the ongoing work on the Ibadan-Ile Ife-Ilesa Expressway, where he commended the president for his commitment to road projects in Osun and the South-West region.

According to a statement from his spokesman, Olawale Rasheed, on Monday, Adeleke emphasized that his support goes beyond political lines, reflecting the aspirations of the people of Osun and the broader Yoruba community. He described Tinubu as a son, father, and leader deserving of backing.

Adeleke noted that he needed no urging to publicly express his support for Tinubu’s reelection bid. As governor of the president’s ancestral home, he felt a natural duty to embrace him. He quipped that while Osun residents consider themselves fortunate to have one of their own as president, Lagos Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu might argue he is even luckier.

The governor praised the speed and quality of the expressway reconstruction, stating it would enhance connectivity and boost economic activities across Osun’s major towns. He highlighted that his administration has rehabilitated several federal roads since 2022 and reconstructed over 300 kilometers of state roads.

Adeleke called on the Federal Government to approve reimbursements for federal roads repaired by the state and expressed gratitude for the approval of the Ibadan-Iwo-Osogbo and Gbongan-Akoda road projects. He plans to formally request presidential approval for the reconstruction of the Osogbo-Ilesa Road, emphasizing that more federal support would accelerate infrastructure development.

Additionally, the governor pledged to ensure free and fair elections in Osun, particularly during the upcoming governorship poll on August 15, affirming his commitment to democratic principles.

The Enugu State chapter of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has been plunged into a leadership crisis, with its chairman, Dr. Johnpaul Anih, accusing certain individuals of orchestrating the discord. In a press briefing held on Monday, Anih categorically denied allegations that he has been impersonating the party’s leadership, labeling such claims as baseless and laughable.

According to Anih, the crisis stems from the actions of political opportunists determined to seize control of the party through underhanded tactics. He described them as “do-or-die politicians” who are using propaganda and financial inducements to destabilize the party’s structure in Enugu State. Anih asserted that he personally built the party’s presence in the state and that the allegations against him are designed to undermine his legitimate authority.

Anih provided a detailed account of the events leading to his election as chairman. He stated that the only valid congresses for the party were held at Aborigen Hall in Enugu, conducted in the presence of media, security personnel, and electoral officials. Despite a violent attack by thugs allegedly sponsored by his rivals, the congress proceeded successfully, and he emerged as chairman. He claimed to have video evidence of the authentic congress that produced his executive.

Responding to a statement from the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Osa Director Esq., which disowned him, Anih argued that the national officer’s claims contradict established facts. He revealed that on 6 May 2026, some individuals from the national secretariat wrote to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) seeking approval for fresh congresses scheduled for 16 to 18 May. However, Anih insisted that these plans were halted by a court order obtained on 15 May, making any subsequent congresses illegitimate. He emphasized that no congresses took place as planned, as party members had rejected the proposed arrangements.

When asked about the involvement of Peter Obi, the NDC presidential candidate, in resolving the crisis, Anih disclosed that two letters were sent to Obi, but no response has been received so far. Anih continues to maintain that his leadership remains the only recognized and legitimate structure for the NDC in Enugu State.

The political landscape in Bauchi State has been shaken as Senator Shehu Buba Umar, who represents Bauchi South, has abandoned the All Progressives Congress (APC) to join the People’s Redemption Party (PRP). His departure came shortly after he withdrew from the APC governorship primary, citing serious breaches of party rules and constitutional provisions.

Buba, once a top contender for the governorship ticket, stepped down just before the primary election. He announced his resignation on Sunday, May 24, 2026, pointing to what he called a lack of internal democracy, unfair treatment, marginalization of genuine members, and disregard for grassroots supporters within the APC.

After extensive consultations with political allies, youth and women groups, and stakeholders across Bauchi, Buba said he chose PRP because it embodies justice, transparency, accountability, inclusiveness, and people-focused leadership. He stressed that leaders must unite to tackle national challenges like poverty, unemployment, insecurity, and economic hardship. “Our people deserve better governance, better opportunities, and leadership that truly listens to their concerns. Politics should be about service to humanity, justice, development, and improving the living conditions of the masses,” Buba stated. He called on his supporters to follow him to PRP to continue the fight for good governance and accountability.

The crisis extends beyond Buba. Senator Samaila Kaila Dahuwa from Bauchi North also quit the APC after losing his return ticket, moving to PRP as well. In the House of Representatives, Hon. Rabilu Bala Kashuri left the APC after failing to secure re-election ticket, resigning on May 21, 2026. Former deputy governorship candidate Hon. Shehu Aliyu Musa also resigned, blaming lack of purposeful leadership, unfair treatment of members, and lack of cohesion among party leaders.

Since the APC governorship primaries concluded, many other aspirants and stakeholders have resigned, accusing the process of lacking transparency and internal democracy. Former House of Assembly majority leader and aspirant for Katagum Federal Constituency, Hon. Tijjani Mohammed Aliyu, resigned, calling the process unfair and predetermined. In his letter, he wrote: “I write to formally notify you of my intention to resign my membership of the party… This decision follows recent developments regarding party activities, particularly the conduct of the 2026 primaries for various elective positions. After careful observation and review, I am convinced that the process was marred by predetermined results, the outright allocation of votes, and non-compliance with the guidelines for the conduct of said primaries.”

Other members like Hon. Abubakar Dahuwa Abdulkadir, Hon. Sulaiman Sunusi Lalaye, and Hon. Rabi’u Abubakar Bishi also resigned, citing injustice, internal crises, and irregularities. Many aggrieved members insisted that no proper direct primaries were conducted and that candidates were imposed rather than elected democratically.

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has concluded its governorship primary election in Akwa Ibom State, with Senator James John Udoedehe securing the party’s ticket. He garnered 66,099 votes, far surpassing his closest contender, Barr Mfon Peters, who obtained 103 votes. Additionally, Princess Pat Akpabio, sister-in-law to Senate President Godswill Akpabio, clinched the ADC nomination for the Akwa Ibom North West Senatorial District with 21,326 votes.

John Elijah, who chaired the Primary Election Committee, announced the results and praised party members for their orderly conduct throughout the primaries across the state. He expressed confidence that the selected candidates would succeed in the 2027 general elections.

In his acceptance address, Udoedehe expressed gratitude to party members for choosing him, emphasizing that his decision to contest was driven by a desire to rescue Akwa Ibom State. A former Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory, he asserted that the ADC, as an opposition party, aims to provide an alternative government focused on accountability. He lamented the high levels of unemployment, poverty, and inequality in the state, vowing to tackle these issues if elected. “We are coming to give Akwa Ibom people an alternative government, building them from sprinkled daily bread policy to affluence,” he declared.

Speaking on behalf of other candidates, Princess Akpabio stated that her focus is on winning and not on pleasing anyone. She urged residents to take advantage of the Continuous Voters Registration exercise to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards, enabling them to vote in 2027. “I believe in change and we are capable to make the change. We are not here to massage anyone, our aim is to make a better Nigeria and better Akwa Ibom,” she added.

In a significant political shift, Mustapha Bala Dawaki, who previously served as Chief of Staff to the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has officially switched allegiance to the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC). This move comes just a week after Dawaki failed to secure the APC ticket for the 2027 elections due to a consensus arrangement.

Dawaki, a former House of Representatives member representing Kano State, made the defection official at the residence of Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, a prominent leader within the NDC and the Kwankwasiyya Movement. The confirmation came from Saifullahi Hassan, Kwankwaso’s media assistant, who announced the development on his Facebook page.

Hassan stated that the leader warmly welcomed Dawaki into the NDC Kwankwasiyya fold. The timing of this defection coincides with the NDC’s ongoing efforts to finalize its candidate selections for various elective positions in Kano State. However, it remains unclear whether Dawaki will automatically be granted a ticket to contest under the NDC banner.

This development underscores the fluid political landscape in Kano, as parties jostle for strategic positions ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Rotimi Amaechi, a candidate vying for the presidential ticket of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has participated in the party’s primary election by casting his ballot. The former Minister of Transportation carried out his civic duty at his polling unit in Ubima Ward, situated within the Ikwerre Local Government Area of Rivers State.

Simultaneously, the ADC’s presidential primary is being conducted across 8,809 wards nationwide. In a related development, another aspirant, Atiku Abubakar, has commended the smooth organization of the primary. The ex-Vice President expressed on X that the exercise’s outcome would be instrumental in Nigeria’s recovery.

On Monday, Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, publicly endorsed Kingsley Chinda as the All Progressives Congress (APC) gubernatorial candidate in Rivers State. Wike praised Chinda’s extensive experience and political background, asserting that these qualities make him exceptionally suited for the governor’s role.

Speaking during an inspection of ongoing infrastructure projects in Abuja, Wike highlighted that Chinda is a well-known figure with proven capabilities. He noted that Chinda’s past roles in both the executive and legislative branches have equipped him with the necessary expertise to lead effectively. According to Wike, a strong candidate like Chinda naturally gains support without much effort.

The FCT minister also expressed satisfaction with the progress of various projects under President Bola Tinubu’s administration. He stated that the Renewed Hope City road project in Karsana is nearly complete, with about 98% of the work finished, and commended Lubriks Construction Company for their quality workmanship.

Wike further inspected the Old Keffi Road and Dei-Dei road projects, where asphalt laying is largely done and streetlight installation is ongoing. The Airport Road to Kuje Road project handled by Arab Contractors received high praise for enhancing connectivity and stimulating economic growth. He emphasized that the visible transformation of Kuje and Gwagwalada areas demonstrates the administration’s commitment to delivering tangible results.

At the City Gate project by Julius Berger, Wike revealed that the initiative was conceived by Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu. He expressed confidence that the project, set for completion by the end of May or early June, will significantly enhance the capital’s entrance, especially at night. Wike concluded by reaffirming that the current administration prioritizes infrastructure as a cornerstone of good governance.