Category: News

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has moved to resolve confusion surrounding the identity of a recently eliminated terrorist leader, Abu-Bilal Al-Minuki. In a statement, the military clarified that the commander neutralized in a joint operation with the United States Africa Command on May 16, 2026, is a different individual from the one killed in a similar mission in 2024.

According to the DHQ, the use of identical names is a common tactic among ISWAP and Boko Haram factions operating in the North East and Lake Chad regions. This deliberate strategy aims to conceal identities and create ambiguity, as noted over years of counter-terrorism operations.

The statement, signed by Director of Defence Information Somalia Uba, emphasized that the 2026 target was positively identified through human and technical intelligence as a senior global operative within the Islamic State network. He had direct links to international terrorist coordination, funding, and activities across the Sahel region. The DHQ asserted there is no doubt about his identity.

The operation marks a major milestone in Nigeria’s ongoing fight against terrorism. The Armed Forces, working alongside the United States, remain committed to dismantling terrorist networks. They urged the public and media to rely on official sources for accurate information to avoid misunderstandings caused by coincidental name similarities.

The leadership of the 6 Brigade Nigerian Army, operating under Sector 3 of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), has vowed to intensify security measures for crucial national programs in Taraba State. Brigadier General Chukwuemeka Michael Akaliro, the brigade commander, made this known during separate meetings with representatives from the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) held at the brigade’s base in Jalingo on a Friday.

Mr. Agunbiade Oladele, the Taraba State branch controller of WAEC, headed the council’s delegation. He explained that their visit aimed to bolster collaboration with the army to guarantee a safe environment for ongoing examinations throughout the region. Oladele highlighted that a stronger military presence at test venues would shield students, invigilators, and sensitive documents from potential risks, particularly in high-risk zones.

In response, General Akaliro confirmed that the brigade would deliver the required security coverage for the entire examination season. He underscored that protecting candidates and preserving the credibility of the assessment process are paramount concerns for the army. The commander also stated that troops would be stationed at designated examination centers as needed, urging WAEC staff, students, and the public to assist security forces and report any unusual activities without delay.

Separately, the Resident Electoral Commissioner of INEC in Taraba, Dr. Sa’ad Umar Idris, led another team to the brigade headquarters to request military assistance and enhance inter-agency collaboration ahead of the 2027 general elections. Dr. Idris noted that the visit was meant to foster deeper ties between INEC and security bodies, which he called essential for achieving peaceful, honest, and open polls in the state.

He praised the Nigerian Army for its part in upholding peace and safety across Taraba and stressed the value of military backing during electoral processes. “Your support and partnership are vital for our success, as you play a key role in protecting citizens and voting materials during elections,” he remarked. Dr. Idris also applauded the army’s work in maintaining national cohesion, adding that INEC is keen to work with the military on training, discussions, and skill development.

General Akaliro pointed out the significance of teamwork and training between the military and INEC to ensure voter security during elections. He reiterated the brigade’s duty to assist civilian authorities in preserving peace and order, assuring INEC of the army’s preparedness to offer adequate security measures whenever needed. The commander concluded that when all parties fulfill their duties without compromise, elections are more likely to be free, fair, and free from violence.

Lagos stakeholders are urging the government to implement more stringent policies to curb lead poisoning and reduce toxic exposure across the state. This came to light during a three-day workshop organized by Resolve to Save Lives (RSTL) in collaboration with the Lagos State Government. The event brought together experts from health, environment, consumer protection, and water management sectors to craft strategies against lead contamination in consumer goods, water systems, and the environment.

Dr. Nanlop Ogbureke, Executive Director of Resolve to Save Lives, noted that the initiative aims to help Lagos develop a roadmap to phase out lead from cosmetics and other products. She described lead poisoning as a critical public health issue due to its severe impact on children, pregnant women, and adults. She highlighted that exposure arises from mining, agriculture, polluted water, and industrial waste, warning that even low levels can cause permanent harm to children’s brain development and cardiovascular health.

Ogbureke emphasized that multiple lead poisoning cases have been reported across Nigeria, necessitating stronger prevention and public education. She stated that the project will gather national data to advocate for stricter regulations. “The government must create awareness and enforce rules, while individuals and industries must prevent contamination,” she added.

Special Adviser to the Lagos Governor on Health, Dr. Kemi Ogunyemi, described the workshop as evidence of the state’s dedication to protecting residents through science-based policies. She noted that contaminated consumer goods, unsafe industrial practices, informal recycling, and adulterated cosmetics pose serious health risks. Ogunyemi said the most vulnerable groups are children and women of childbearing age, who suffer developmental disorders and long-term health issues from lead exposure. She recalled that Resolve to Save Lives launched its lead prevention program in Nigeria in May 2025, with Lagos as one of four pilot states alongside Kano, Kwara, and Nasarawa.

Dr. Olajumoke Oyenuga, Director of Health Planning at the Lagos Ministry of Health, said the workshop aimed to localize the national strategic plan for lead prevention. “By the end, Lagos will have a document guiding stakeholders on effective lead control,” she explained. The General Manager of the Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency, Afolabi Solebo, warned that no level of lead exposure is safe. He identified imported cosmetics, traditional medicines, contaminated food, industrial emissions, old plumbing, and lead-based paints as major sources. He also highlighted risks from unregulated battery recycling, e-waste processing, and illegal smelting in areas like Ikorodu, Alaba, and Ajegunle. Solebo stressed that poor awareness worsens the problem and announced intensified enforcement of safety standards and public sensitization campaigns.

The General Manager of the Lagos Waste Water Management Office, Adeyemi Afolabi, urged action to prevent lead from entering waterways, calling it a severe environmental and economic issue requiring cooperation among government, industries, and residents.

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has announced a change of plans for its screening of presidential and governorship aspirants. Originally slated for this weekend, the exercise has now been moved to Monday, 18th May 2026, according to a statement from the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi.

In light of security concerns in parts of Northern Nigeria, the party has also decided to relocate the screening for federal lawmaker aspirants from affected areas to Abuja. All impacted aspirants will be notified of the new schedule and relevant details via direct communication.

The ADC expressed regret for any inconvenience caused by the adjustment and thanked all aspirants and stakeholders for their understanding and cooperation.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has issued a statement to dispel any misconceptions regarding the necessity of membership dues for participation in its ongoing primary elections. According to the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, the requirement to provide evidence of paid membership fees applies only to aspirants and their nominators during the submission of Expression of Interest and Nomination Forms, as well as during the screening process.

In a press release on Saturday in Abuja, Morka emphasized that all duly registered party members are eligible to vote in the primaries without needing to show proof of payment of membership dues. The party urges members and stakeholders to disregard any contrary information and to allow all registered members to participate peacefully in the exercise without hindrance.

Jamila Mani, the Special Assistant on Girl Child Education and Development to the Katsina State Governor, has clinched the All Progressives Congress (APC) ticket for the Mani/Bindawa Federal Constituency. The primary election took place on Saturday as part of the party’s National Assembly primaries leading up to the 2027 general elections.

Mani secured a commanding victory over her closest opponent, Ahmed Saleh, by amassing 24,989 votes against Saleh’s 1,256 votes. This decisive win underscores her strong support within the constituency.

Meanwhile, in other constituencies across Katsina State, the APC conducted its primaries through affirmation following a consensus reached among stakeholders earlier. The party is currently holding House of Representatives primaries in various states in preparation for the 2027 polls.

The Chairman of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in Kano State, Husaini Isah Mai Riga, has called on security agencies to step up their efforts to protect citizens following recent violent incidents in two local government areas. The attacks, carried out by armed men in the Yankamaye community of Tsanyawa LGA and the Lakwaya community of Gwarzo LGA, have raised concerns about public safety.

In a statement released on Saturday, Mai Riga stressed that safeguarding lives and property should be the government’s foremost concern. The statement, issued by his Personal Assistant and Media Director Adam Said Adam, was shared on the party’s Facebook page. The NDC chairman emphasized that the protection of citizens is a fundamental duty that demands the government’s unwavering focus, as it remains one of the populace’s most urgent needs.

Mai Riga also expressed his condolences to those affected by the attacks and offered prayers for the deceased. The statement added that the chairman prayed for continued divine protection over the lives and property of Kano State residents, asking God to keep the state safe from all forms of evil.

Felix Morka, the National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), along with Victor Giadom, the party’s National Vice Chairman for the South-South region, have arrived in Rivers State. Their visit is aimed at overseeing the ongoing primaries for the House of Representatives being conducted by the party.

They are accompanied by prominent political figures, including OK Chinda, an APC governorship aspirant in Rivers, and Kelechi Nwogu, a member of the House of Representatives from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). All aspirants taking part in these primaries are known to be loyalists of Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory.

In most federal constituencies, consensus has already been reached; however, direct primaries have been adopted as the method for selecting candidates in other areas. This development comes shortly after the release of the final list of screened aspirants for the House of Representatives. According to the list, three loyalists of Governor Fubara were disqualified, while seven allies of Wike were cleared to contest.

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Cross River State has officially launched the sale of expression of interest and nomination forms for aspirants aiming to contest the upcoming elections on the party’s platform.

Dr. Effiong Nyong, the party’s 2023 governorship candidate, has become the first aspirant to publicly announce his intention to run, signaling his interest at the party’s secretariat in Calabar over the weekend.

In a media chat, Nyong confirmed that he has met all prerequisites for participation, emphasizing the need for the party to field only qualified, credible, and marketable candidates as it prepares for the general elections.

He asserted that the ADC is strategically positioning itself as a viable alternative for governance in Cross River State, citing the poor performance of the current All Progressives Congress administration as a key motivator.

Nyong stressed that the ADC is committed to addressing the shortcomings of the present government and restoring effective leadership in the state. He also ruled out any form of political negotiations or alliances that might compromise the party’s core objectives.

The governorship hopeful reiterated the party’s dedication to providing transparent leadership and driving sustainable development across Cross River State.

Meanwhile, the party’s State Secretary, Dr. MacFarlane Ejah, announced that the form sales cover all elective positions, including seats in the National Assembly and the Cross River State House of Assembly.

Ejah described the exercise as a critical milestone in the party’s electoral preparations, reaffirming the ADC’s focus on presenting credible and people-oriented candidates. He assured party members that the process would be transparent and inclusive for all qualified aspirants.

“The ADC stands for a new era of politics built on integrity, competence, and service to the people,” Ejah said. “We encourage capable and committed sons and daughters of Cross River State to take advantage of this opportunity to offer themselves for leadership.”

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Taraba State is engulfed in a deepening crisis as party leaders struggle to forge a consensus for elective positions ahead of the 2027 general elections. The push for a unified candidate has met with significant resistance, particularly in the governorship race, revealing stark divisions among key stakeholders.

At the heart of the conflict is Governor Dr. Agbu Kefas, who seeks a second term under the APC banner. His ambition is being vigorously challenged by two notable aspirants: philanthropist Chief David Sabo Kente and former Minister of Transportation, Mu’azu Jaji Sambo. These challengers have refused to endorse the consensus arrangement pushed by the state leadership, insisting on a transparent primary process.

In a bid to ease tensions, Governor Kefas held a late-night closed-door meeting with Chief Kente on Friday. Sources indicate the discussions aimed at reconciling aggrieved factions and persuading Kente to support the consensus bid. This meeting came shortly after Kente publicly declared his candidacy in Wukari, denouncing earlier backroom overtures and calling for a credible selection process.

Meanwhile, former Minister Sambo has remained steadfast against the consensus approach, advocating for direct primaries to ensure fairness. He has been rallying party members across all 168 electoral wards of the state, building grassroots support for his own candidacy. Political observers note that the outcome of negotiations between Kefas and Kente will likely determine whether the Taraba APC remains united or slides into a fractious and unpredictable primary contest.