Category: News

Senator Victor Umeh, who represents Anambra Central, has clarified the rationale behind the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) decision to zone its presidential ticket to the Southern region for the 2027 elections.

In an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Umeh stated that the move aims to fulfill the remaining four years of the eight-year presidential term allocated to the South. He emphasized that the NDC acted prudently by embracing zoning, a principle that promotes balance and equity in Nigerian politics.

According to Umeh, the failure of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to implement zoning contributed to the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) loss in the 2023 election. He criticized the ADC for repeating what he called a costly mistake, despite efforts to foster unity.

Umeh further argued that any serious contender must recognize the South’s entitlement to two terms of four years each. He noted that challenging the Southern bloc in the upcoming election would be futile, given the region’s legitimate claim to complete its eight-year tenure. The NDC, he said, has demonstrated political maturity by making a strategic decision that aligns with fairness and electoral success.

Former Kaduna Central Senator, Shehu Sani, has declared his intention to run for the Senate again in 2027, stating that the law permits unlimited term in the National Assembly. He made this known during an interview on Channels Television’s ‘Sunday Politics’ programme.

Sani explained that the constitution does not impose term limits on senators or members of the House of Representatives, so he is free to contest again. He also noted that his constituents believe he still has much to offer and that he has a responsibility to continue representing their interests effectively.

The former lawmaker lamented that Nigerians often pay more attention to who becomes president than who represents them in the legislature at both state and federal levels. He emphasized that this attitude is detrimental to democracy.

According to Sani, a vibrant and independent Senate is crucial for good governance. He argued that when lawmakers maintain their integrity and independence, they can ensure better accountability and oversight in the country.

The Lagos State Government has officially responded to a viral social media video alleging the illegal arrest and detention of a 14-year-old boy at Kirikiri Prison. In a statement from the Office of the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, authorities described the claims as false and engineered to sway public opinion.

According to the government, the individual in question is not 14-year-old Michael Adekunle, but rather Michael Adebiyi, who was 18 years old at the time of his arrest in 2022. Adebiyi was taken into custody alongside Adedeji Kabiru and Adekunle Waris on suspicion of armed robbery.

The Attorney-General, Lawal Pedro, clarified that the Directorate of Public Prosecutions received the case file in January 2023 and promptly issued legal advice, establishing a prima facie case against Adebiyi and Kabiru for conspiracy and armed robbery under Lagos State law. Waris was released due to lack of evidence.

Charges were filed at the Lagos State High Court in May 2023, and the trial has proceeded under Justice H.O. Oshodi. The prosecution has already closed its case, and the defense recently filed a no-case submission, which is pending hearing.

Addressing the age discrepancy, the government emphasized that both the suspect’s statement and official records consistently show the name Michael Adebiyi and age 18. It noted that neither the defendant nor his lawyers raised any objections about identity or age during court proceedings. The government urged the public to disregard the viral video, calling it a deliberate attempt to garner sympathy for the accused.

In a decisive move against oil theft, the Nigerian Navy has announced the recovery of approximately 1,600 liters of suspected illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) during a targeted operation in Rivers State. The operation, conducted under the banner of Operation Delta Sentinel, underscores the Navy’s relentless campaign to curb illegal refining and economic sabotage in the region.

According to a statement by Captain A. Folorunsho, Director of Naval Information, personnel from the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Soroh acted on credible intelligence about the storage of illegal petroleum products in the Okolomade Community, located within the Abua-Odual Local Government Area of Rivers State, bordering Bayelsa State’s Ogbia LGA.

The Anti-Crude Oil Theft (Anti-COT) team swiftly deployed to the Orashi Forest, where aerial surveillance via an unmanned system revealed sacks hidden under grass. A thorough search yielded 16 sacks, each containing about 100 liters, totaling 1,600 liters of what is believed to be illegally refined AGO.

“The suspects fled on sighting the naval personnel, and no arrests were made. The recovered items were evacuated and handled per standard protocols,” the statement explained.

The Nigerian Navy reaffirmed its commitment to dismantling illegal refining networks and ensuring that economic saboteurs find no safe haven in the nation’s waterways and creeks. Operation Delta Sentinel continues to intensify efforts to protect Nigeria’s maritime resources.

The Ogun State Government has added its voice to the chorus of tributes pouring in across Nigeria for elder statesman and Afenifere chieftain, Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti, who celebrates his centenary today.

In a statement personally issued by Governor Dapo Abiodun, the governor hailed the nonagenarian as a beacon of patriotism, democratic values, and integrity, whose impact on Nigeria’s political journey remains unforgettable.

Governor Abiodun recalled that Pa Fasoranti, born a century ago in Akure, carved a niche for himself as an educator, administrator, politician, and relentless champion of good governance.

He highlighted the centenarian’s tenure as Commissioner for Finance in old Ondo State under the late Governor Michael Adekunle Ajasin from 1979 to 1983, and his significant contributions to education through the founding of schools like Omolere Nursery School and extensions of Akure High School.

According to the governor, Pa Fasoranti has long been one of Nigeria’s most vocal advocates for democracy, federalism, and restructuring. He was deeply involved in the pro-democracy movement alongside iconic figures such as Obafemi Awolowo.

The Afenifere leader faced persecution and hardship during the military era but never wavered in his belief that democracy is the surest route to Nigeria’s progress and unity.

Governor Abiodun described the elder statesman as “a national treasure,” noting that his wisdom and moral influence continue to guide leaders across generations.

“The Government and People of Ogun State celebrate Pa Reuben Famuyide Fasoranti at 100 and pray that Almighty God blesses him with many more fruitful years in good health and peace,” the statement concluded.

Pa Fasoranti turns 100 on Sunday, with prominent political figures, traditional rulers, and well-wishers expected to gather for the festivities.

Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has expressed profound grief over the demise of the President of the League of Imams and Alfas in Ogun State, who also served as the Grand Chief Imam of Yewaland, Sheikh Sikirulai Babalola. The governor made his remarks on Sunday during the burial ceremony held at Igan Alalade in Yewa North Local Government Area.

Governor Abiodun described the late Sheikh as a deeply committed Muslim and a revered Islamic scholar who attained the pinnacle of leadership within the state’s Muslim community. He noted that the deceased was not only the Grand Chief Imam of Yewaland but also the head of the League of Imams and Alfas, making him one of the most prominent Islamic figures in Ogun State.

The governor went on to characterize the cleric as a person of integrity, generosity, and unwavering faith, leaving behind a lasting legacy through his dedication to serving humanity and the Muslim ummah. He added that Ogun State, renowned for its religious harmony and tolerance, has lost one of its foremost spiritual leaders, describing the event as a painful loss for the family and the entire state.

In his words, Abiodun said, “I cannot find better words to describe him other than that he was a man of God and a good man.” He prayed for Almighty Allah to grant the departed eternal rest.

The Minister of State for Health, Iziaq Kunle Salako, also paid tribute, stating that the late Sheikh devoted his entire life to the service of humanity through Islam. Salako remarked, “He was a very upright man who consistently defended the interests of Yewaland, even as a Muslim leader. He always looked out for the younger generation and served as a rallying point for many in the land. His death, though at a ripe old age, is still a huge loss to us.” He prayed for the deceased to be granted Aljanah Firdaus.

During the burial, Dr. Raji Akano, Head of the Department of Arabic Studies at the Federal College of Education, Abeokuta, delivered a brief lecture urging people to make meaningful use of their lives, emphasizing that death is inevitable for all humans. He stated that the late Chief Imam had completed his earthly assignment and returned to his Creator, encouraging the living to lead impactful lives and remain conscious of the hereafter.

Sheikh Sikirulai Babalola passed away on Saturday at the age of 98.

In a recent development, Reno Omokri, the ambassador-designate to Mexico, had an unexpected encounter with Peter Obi, a prominent figure in the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC). The meeting took place at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, as captured in a video that has since circulated widely.

Omokri took to his X account on Sunday to share the experience, expressing that the two exchanged friendly gestures. He remarked that the encounter was a warm moment, especially with the upcoming presidential election in mind.

The video footage shows the pair engaging in a handshake and sharing a brief laugh, indicating a cordial interaction. However, the clip has ignited a flurry of reactions from social media users on X, with many interpreting Omokri’s post as a veiled attempt at mockery.

Some commenters have been critical, suggesting that Omokri’s greeting was a calculated move. One user, T.G, compared the situation to a character from Game of Thrones, hinting at hidden agendas. Another user, De General, accused Omokri of setting up the encounter for political gain, praising Obi for maintaining his composure.

Chief Onyeihenagarankeoma questioned Omokri’s display of respect, given his own claims of being an omoluabi. Meanwhile, others like the NDC War Room jokingly remarked on the excitement Omokri seemed to show, as if meeting his mentor.

Ugochukwu Ernest speculated that if Obi were of Yoruba descent, the reaction would have been more intense, while Josh40biDati noted how Omokri quickly sought a handshake from the perceived future president. VIIKTHOR UNEKWU AKOGZY used a string of colorful phrases to express disapproval.

The encounter has undoubtedly added fuel to the ongoing political discourse, with many eager to see how this interaction might play out in the larger political landscape.

The Supreme Court of Nigeria has nullified the N1.07 billion judgment earlier granted to Elder Simon Achuba, the former Deputy Governor of Kogi State, which was meant to cover unpaid salaries, allowances, and other entitlements.

In its ruling, the apex court determined that the Court of Appeal had overstepped its bounds by using a post-judgment motion to compute and award a specific monetary figure to Achuba, instead of sending the case back to the National Industrial Court—the appropriate trial court—for a proper assessment and verification of the claimed amounts.

The Supreme Court highlighted a critical difference between a judgment that simply recognizes a party’s right to receive salaries and allowances and one that orders a clearly defined monetary payout. The earlier ruling, it noted, acknowledged Achuba’s entitlement but did not specify any exact sum. Therefore, any subsequent demand for a precise amount had to be filed and proven through regular proceedings before the National Industrial Court.

The court also emphasized that a post-judgment application cannot be used as a shortcut to bypass full substantive hearings, especially for claims totaling billions of naira that involve complex evidence, pleadings, and the evaluation of competing financial figures. By handling the calculation and award itself, the Court of Appeal improperly acted as a court of first instance, the Supreme Court said.

Chief Joseph Bodunde Daudu (SAN), representing the appellants, argued that the initial judgment only affirmed Achuba’s right to salaries and allowances without quantifying them, and that any claim for a specific amount should have been pursued through the National Industrial Court. The appellants further contended that the Supreme Court had jurisdiction to hear the appeal because the core issue was whether the Court of Appeal had wrongly assumed original jurisdiction.

The lead judgment was delivered by Justice Chioma Egondu Nwosu-Iheme, with the concurrence of three other justices. However, Hon. Justice Obande Festus Ogbuinya dissented, offering a different perspective on whether the Court of Appeal was merely enforcing an existing judgment or improperly creating a new substantive monetary award.

Femi Falana (SAN) led the legal team for Simon Achuba. As a result of the ruling, the N1.07 billion award has been set aside.

Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has officially named Mrs. Victoria Adunola Samson, better recognized as BOVAS, to the position of Chancellor at Osun State University (UNIOSUN). The announcement came through a statement released on Sunday, May 10, 2026, by the governor’s spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed.

Mrs. Samson assumes the role as the third chancellor of the institution, succeeding Folorunso Alakija, whose term concluded on March 18, 2026, after a decade of service. Alakija’s tenure was marked by significant contributions, including the donation of the Modupe and Folorunso Alakija Medical Research and Training Hospital, a multi-billion-naira project that greatly enhanced the university’s infrastructure.

Before her appointment, the Osun State Government paid a courtesy visit to Alakija on May 8, 2026, acknowledging her and her family’s efforts in advancing the university. Governor Adeleke praised her leadership, describing it as a period of notable achievements and a lasting legacy.

Mrs. Samson, widely referred to as Mama BOVAS, is the founder of BOVAS Oil and Gas, a prominent indigenous company in the petroleum sector. Hailing from Iree in Boripe Local Government Area of Osun State, she was born on December 5, 1949. Under her direction and that of her husband, the enterprise grew from a single service station to more than 200 outlets nationwide, employing over 2,000 people as of December 31, 2025.

She also holds the Texaco Petroleum franchise and made history in 1990 by becoming the first Nigerian to win the Texaco Latin America and West Africa Award for Best Overall Dealer. During that period, she achieved the highest sales performance across both West Africa and Latin America.

Her professional background includes serving as Matron for the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria at the NNPC/PPMC Satellite Depot in Ejigbo, Lagos, and the Apata Depot in Ibadan. She has also been a member of the Board of Trustees for the Depot and Petroleum Products Marketing Association. Mrs. Samson holds a Professional Diploma in Marketing and has attended leadership programs at Harvard Business School and IESE Business School in Barcelona.

Governor Adeleke, in his statement, expressed appreciation for her efforts in making petroleum products more accessible to consumers. He celebrated her as a symbol of decency, honesty, integrity, and humanity. The governor congratulated her on behalf of the state’s government and people, urging her to apply her wealth of experience and leadership skills to her new role at UNIOSUN.

A 73-year-old Nigerian woman from Adamawa State has died while performing the 2026 Hajj in Saudi Arabia. The pilgrim, identified as Mallama Aishatu Muhammadu, was from Gombi Local Government Area.

According to Ambassador Ismail Abba Yusuf, Chairman of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), she suffered a sudden cardiac arrest on Sunday while traveling from Jeddah to Madinah. He expressed the federal government’s condolences during a phone call with her brother, Umaru Jauro Koko.

Yusuf prayed for her soul to be granted Aljannatul Firdaus and for strength for her family. He assured them that the government would facilitate the return of her belongings, including her Basic Travel Allowance and death certificate, through the Adamawa State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Commission.

Mallama Aishatu is survived by multiple children, grandchildren, and a great-grandchild. Among them is Abdullahi Bello, a Divisional Officer with the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps in Ganye. She is the first reported Nigerian fatality during this year’s pilgrimage.