Category: News

The House of Representatives has responded sharply to its Minority Caucus after they urged President Bola Tinubu to either tackle insecurity or step down. In a statement released Friday by spokesman Akin Rotimi, the House acknowledged the concerns but stressed that opposition lawmakers are part of the government and have a duty to contribute solutions.

Minority Leader Fred Agbedi had earlier called on President Tinubu to halt all 2027 campaign activities and focus on a six-month national security and economic recovery plan. He warned, “Lead or leave,” during a Wednesday press conference.

The House, however, noted that Nigeria’s security challenges are not new and cannot be resolved overnight. It pointed out that security agencies are making steady progress by dismantling criminal networks and rescuing kidnap victims.

Lawmakers were reminded that they possess constitutional powers to legislate and control budgets, urging them to propose concrete measures rather than resort to public grandstanding. The House emphasized that parliamentary accountability for national security is a shared responsibility, not limited to any caucus.

“Security remains a shared national responsibility that transcends political affiliation. Our duty as Parliament is not only to express concern but to ensure such concerns are translated into effective legislative and oversight actions that strengthen national security,” the statement read.

Public schools in Ilorin, Kwara State, saw a mass exodus of students on Friday, following a false alarm about a bandit attack raised by a local woman. The rumor caused widespread panic, leading many parents to keep their children at home as a precautionary measure.

Despite school staff being present, classrooms across the state capital—including areas like Oke-Oyi, Eleko-Afeyin, Zango-Kulende, Danialu, and Agbabiaka—stood empty. Even after the Kwara State Commissioner of Police, Ojo Adekimi, publicly dismissed the invasion claim and announced a manhunt for the woman who started the rumor, many families remained fearful.

One parent, who wished to remain unnamed, explained that the Thursday alarm had traumatized her, prompting her to refuse her children’s school attendance for safety reasons. The police commissioner warned that such false reports could lead to public disorder and vowed to hold the perpetrator accountable.

In response, Kwara State’s Commissioner for Education, Dr. Lawal Olohungbebe, issued a statement on Friday reassuring parents of school safety. He noted that he had personally visited several schools and confirmed a peaceful environment. ‘I encourage all parents to send their children back to school without fear. Their safety is our top priority,’ he said. He added that the government is collaborating with security agencies and stakeholders to maintain a secure learning atmosphere.

The Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) has urged the public, particularly its members in Imo, Abia, Anambra, and other states, to ignore the candidate lists circulating on social media, calling them fraudulent. In a statement released by its National Secretary, Barrister Ikenna Alex-Morgan Enekweizu, the party clarified that these lists are not from its headquarters and are the work of troublemakers aiming to harm the party’s image.

The statement emphasized that the NDC has already submitted its official candidate list to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) through the proper procedures outlined in the Electoral Act. The party is currently investigating the origin of the false lists, which it says are attempts to create discord and distract from its goals.

According to the NDC, these actions are by individuals who do not wish the party well. The party reassured its supporters that it remains committed to building a strong organization capable of rescuing Nigeria from its current challenges. This assurance comes amidst other party developments, including a recent requirement for members seeking public office to sign an anti-defection pact. This Memorandum of Understanding obligates candidates to resign their positions if they leave the party after winning elections.

The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Ekiti State, Wole Oluyede, has publicly stated that he operates without a political godfather. In a recent interview on Channels Television’s ‘Politics Today’ program, Oluyede emphasized that the true godfathers of his campaign are the people of Ekiti State.

Acknowledging the upcoming gubernatorial election scheduled for Saturday, Oluyede expressed confidence in his connection with the electorate. He noted, “It is well known that my only godfathers are the citizens themselves. They must recognize my proven track record of investing in our state. Currently, I am the sole individual willing to trust Ekiti by investing my personal resources, time, and energy to create change.”

Oluyede also raised concerns about the impartiality of the police force in Ekiti, alleging that his supporters face unwarranted arrests while opponents from the All Progressives Congress (APC) attack people with impunity. “I am deeply suspicious of the police’s fairness here. When our supporters are detained without explanation, yet APC agents in my hometown wield machetes without consequence, we must question the system,” he added.

The Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) governorship candidate in Kano State and former deputy governor, Comrade Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo, has publicly challenged Governor Abba Yusuf to provide concrete evidence supporting allegations that local government funds were diverted through Gwarzo’s son, Mujahid Aminu Abdussalam.

This demand comes after Governor Yusuf’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, accused Gwarzo of being the recipient of funds funneled from local councils via his son. In a statement released on Thursday through his spokesperson, Ibrahim Garba Shuaibu, Gwarzo dismissed the accusations as baseless, outrageous, and a desperate attempt to tarnish his long-standing reputation in public service.

According to Gwarzo, the allegations are mere figments of the governor’s imagination, lacking any factual foundation. He firmly called on the accuser to produce credible and verifiable evidence to support the malicious claims. “Mere accusations, no matter how often repeated in the media, do not constitute proof,” the statement emphasized.

The NDC candidate reiterated his unwavering commitment to transparency, accountability, and the rule of law throughout his career. He expressed confidence that the truth will eventually prevail and urged the public to disregard what he termed baseless allegations.

During an inspection of bridge projects in Lagos, Works Minister Dave Umahi voiced strong confidence that President Bola Tinubu’s tenure will extend to 2031 through divine backing. He made the remarks while assessing the Carter Bridge reconstruction, which is set to begin next week.

Umahi emphasized that Tinubu’s administration enjoys heavenly favor to tackle national challenges, especially insecurity. He stated that the same God who brought Tinubu to power will continue to provide solutions to all problems. The minister urged Nigerians to support the government’s efforts to address security concerns across the country.

He noted that no leader desires turmoil, but a responsible government must confront crises head-on when they emerge. Umahi expressed belief that regardless of the origins of security issues, Tinubu will receive the wisdom and strength needed to overcome them and resolve other national matters.

The minister also affirmed that all projects initiated by this administration will be completed, saying, ‘Your hands that have started this will complete it.’ He maintained that the government remains confident in Tinubu’s divinely favored leadership. The Carter Bridge reconstruction is expected to be finished within three years, as part of a five-year plan.

The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has defended its anti-defection policy, stating that it is rooted in the party’s constitution. During an appearance on Arise Television’s ‘Prime Time’ program on Thursday, National Publicity Secretary Osa Director explained that the measure is designed to prevent elected officials from switching parties after winning elections.

According to Director, Article 16 of the NDC’s constitution explicitly outlines the anti-defection stance. Candidates seeking governorship, National Assembly, or other elective positions under the NDC banner must sign legal documents agreeing to vacate their seats if they decide to leave the party after being elected. This requirement, he emphasized, is not new but has always been part of the party’s founding principles.

Director further distinguished between politicians and statesmen, noting that while politicians focus on winning elections, statesmen prioritize nation-building. He described the NDC as a party committed to the holistic development of Nigeria and expressed hope that other political parties would adopt similar measures to strengthen democracy and the rule of law.

The policy has sparked debate, with some questioning its legality and practicality. However, the NDC remains steadfast, insisting that it is a constitutional provision that all members must adhere to. Director urged critics to read the party’s constitution, stressing that transparency and accountability are central to the NDC’s mission.

Funso Doherty, a prominent political figure, has officially accepted the nomination to run as the governorship candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in Lagos State for the 2027 elections. The announcement was made via a social media post on Friday, where he expressed profound humility and gratitude for the party’s confidence in him.

In his statement, Doherty emphasized the need for inclusive leadership that prioritizes the welfare of all Lagos residents. He declared that the real work is just beginning and called on supporters to join him in building a better Lagos. His rallying cry, ‘O TI Ya!’, underscores his determination to drive change.

Doherty had earlier defected from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to the NDC, where he initially declared his intention to contest the governorship race. His move to the NDC marks a strategic shift as the 2027 elections approach.

The Ekiti State Police Command has declared a ban on vehicle movement throughout the state for the upcoming governorship election scheduled for Saturday. This announcement was made by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Sunday Abutu, in a statement released on Friday in Ado-Ekiti.

The restriction will be in effect from midnight until 6:00 p.m., covering all roads within Ekiti, including both intra-state and inter-state routes. The measure is part of a comprehensive security plan designed to ensure a peaceful, orderly, and violence-free electoral process.

All forms of motorized transport, such as private cars, commercial vehicles, trucks, tricycles, and motorcycles, are subject to the ban. However, students and candidates taking part in national examinations are exempt and may travel to their test centers.

Travelers who plan to pass through the state on election day are advised to find alternative routes. Accredited officials from the Independent National Electoral Commission, ad-hoc staff, journalists, election observers, medical personnel, emergency responders, and other essential service providers will be allowed to move during the restriction period as long as they carry valid identification and clearance tags.

The police spokesperson also stated that VIPs traveling with armed escorts to polling units and collation centers will not be permitted. Construction companies working on road projects in the state are advised to suspend active work for the duration of the election due to safety concerns.

Only personnel from recognized security agencies and organizations under the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security will be authorized to provide security at polling units, collation centers, and other election-related facilities.

Eze Chukwuemeka Eze, a prominent figure in the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has strongly criticized Justice Peter Lifu of the Federal High Court, accusing him of functioning as an anti-democratic element within the judiciary. In a statement released on Friday, Eze claimed that the judge is secretly working for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) to suppress opposition parties ahead of the 2027 general elections.

According to Eze, Justice Lifu and similar judicial officers are being manipulated by desperate politicians who view themselves as untouchable and aim to influence court rulings against any perceived threat to President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid. He argued that these actions are not based on conjecture but are blatant attempts to eliminate competition.

Eze pointed out that Justice Lifu would never dare to issue a reprimand against figures like Nyesom Wike, highlighting a double standard in the judge’s conduct. He accused Justice Lifu of making a mockery of his position by becoming a cheap instrument for his benefactors, who are determined to decimate the opposition. Eze questioned whether the judge must carry out such duties for the APC at the expense of the judiciary’s integrity.

The ADC chieftain further alleged that Justice Lifu demonstrated excessive eagerness by willfully ignoring an Appeal Court order that instructed him to halt proceedings in a case seeking the deregistration of several political parties. Eze asserted that Nigeria’s judiciary has been compromised ever since the previous administration, led by Muhammadu Buhari, attacked and prosecuted Chief Justice Walter Onnoghen and other Supreme Court justices. Since then, some judges, including Justice Lifu, have abandoned their apolitical stance out of fear and have embraced alliances with civilian despots and corrupt politicians.

Despite these criticisms, Eze acknowledged that there are still courageous and patriotic judicial officers who deliver justice based on law, without bias or fear. He lambasted Justice Lifu for disregarding established judicial precedents in order to fulfill the objectives of what he termed drowning political misfits who are terrified of opposition due to their poor governance record.

Eze, who previously served as National Publicity Secretary of the defunct New Peoples Democratic Party (nPDP), commended the Appeal Court and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for condemning what he described as Justice Lifu’s judicial rascality. He noted that the ultimate aim of these maneuvers is to prevent the ADC’s presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, from contesting in the 2027 elections, but he expressed confidence that Nigerians would thwart such plans and oust the APC from power.

He remarked that the fear of a potential Atiku-Amaechi ticket has motivated President Tinubu’s actions. Eze thanked the Appeal Court for staying the controversial deregistration judgment and praised INEC for challenging it. He concluded by calling on the National Judicial Council (NJC) to investigate and discipline Justice Lifu for issuing an order that further damages public perception of the judiciary and subverts the rule of law.