Category: News

In a decisive operation, soldiers from the Operation Enduring Peace (OPEP) task force have liberated a clergyman and his spouse from the grasp of kidnappers in Faggem village, located within Bokkos Local Government Area of Plateau State. The rescue mission unfolded on Friday, June 5, 2026, after the couple was seized by armed assailants. Responding swiftly to a distress signal, the troops tracked the criminals to a hideout in a nearby forest, where they found the victims injured but alive.

According to Captain Polycarp Oteh, the Media Information Officer for the task force, the pastor and his wife sustained wounds during the initial abduction. They were immediately evacuated to a medical facility in Bokkos for treatment. The troops also recovered eight empty casings of 7.62mm special ammunition at the scene, indicating the kidnappers’ firepower. A manhunt is currently underway to apprehend the fleeing suspects, as the military remains committed to eradicating criminal activities from the region’s highways and communities.

Captain Oteh emphasized that the task force will not relent in its efforts to ensure the safety of residents and travelers. This successful operation marks another victory in the ongoing campaign against banditry and kidnapping in Plateau State, reflecting the troops’ readiness to respond to emergencies and protect vulnerable citizens.

The Kano State Fire Service has disclosed that it responded to 58 fire outbreaks and recorded 13 deaths throughout the state during May 2026.

According to a statement released by the agency’s Public Relations Officer, ACFO Saminu Yusif Abdullahi, the Director of the Service, Alhaji Sani Anas, provided a breakdown of the month’s operations.

Between May 1 and May 31, the service handled a total of 80 emergency calls. These included 58 fire incidents, 15 rescue operations, and seven false alarms. The 13 fatalities stemmed from various causes, including fires, road accidents, and incidents involving ponds and wells.

Despite these losses, the service successfully rescued 34 people during rescue missions across the state. The director also noted that fires destroyed property valued at over ₦144 million, but timely firefighting efforts saved property worth approximately ₦437 million.

Anas urged residents to prioritize fire safety and handle fire-related activities carefully to prevent avoidable incidents. He assured that the Kano State Fire Service remains dedicated to protecting lives and property through rapid response, public education, and preventive strategies.

A recent incident involving officials from the Lagos State Ministry of Housing confronting a homeowner about solar panels has sparked widespread outrage among the public. The viral video shows enforcement officers demanding approvals and payments for the installation, leading many to question the government’s motives.

In response, the state government clarified that the requirement only applies to residents of government-owned social housing estates, not private property owners. Wale Ajetunmobi, a media aide to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, stated that these fees are administrative charges for structural alterations in shared spaces within those estates. He emphasized that the policy aims to manage liabilities and ensure compliance with planning laws.

Despite the clarification, critics remain unconvinced. Many argue that the government is penalizing citizens for seeking alternatives to the unreliable public power supply. Businessman Anthony Osewele described it as taxing a natural resource, while lawyer Marcellus Onah noted that people are forced to provide their own electricity due to government failure. Estate agent Rowland Adebayo added that Lagosians are already overwhelmed by multiple levies without corresponding services.

The debate has escalated into a broader discussion on governance and the limits of state control, with some fearing that the policy could eventually extend to all homeowners. Residents are calling for the law to be scrapped, viewing it as an unfair commercialization of basic survival needs in a city grappling with economic challenges.

Solomon Dalung, a former Minister of Youths and Sports, has revealed that the founders of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) coalition swore an oath during its formation. Speaking on the Mic On Podcast with Seun Okinbaloye, Dalung explained that the oath bound members to prioritize Nigeria over personal aspirations.

According to Dalung, who served under ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, many coalition members have since violated that pledge. He expressed disappointment that individual ambitions now overshadow the collective vision that initially united the group.

Dalung acknowledged that while the coalition remains active, it has lost the strength and unity it had at its inception. When asked about internal disputes within the ADC, he stated that controversies are inevitable in politics and that anyone claiming otherwise is being dishonest. He reaffirmed his own commitment to the original oath, even as others stray from it.

The former minister pointed out that the coalition’s current instability stems from personal interests taking precedence over the early agreement. He concluded by noting that the ADC is not dead, but it is no longer as resilient as it once was.

Datti Baba-Ahmed, the former vice presidential candidate of the Labour Party, has firmly rejected any notion that there is discord between him and Peter Obi, who is now the 2027 presidential flagbearer for the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC). In a recent interview on Channels TV, he addressed critics who pointed to his inability to secure his ward and local government for the Labour Party during the 2023 elections.

According to Datti, Obi remains a highly respected political figure, despite their current affiliation with different parties. He emphasized that their relationship is built on mutual respect and admiration. “Nobody will cause a problem between me and my boss, Peter Obi,” Datti stated, underscoring that their bond cannot be disrupted by external forces. He further remarked, “Peter Obi and I have mutual respect for each other, so nobody will come between us,” reaffirming his unwavering regard for Obi’s governance style and integrity.

The statement comes amid ongoing political realignments and speculations about potential fractures within opposition circles. Datti’s comments serve as a clear message that his loyalty to Obi transcends party lines.

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) chairmen from various local government areas in Lagos State have issued a strong appeal to the party’s National Working Committee (NWC). They are urging the NWC to honour the results of the governorship primary election and respect the collective will of party members.

In a communiqué released after a meeting of the Forum of Local Government Area Chairmen of ADC in Lagos, the leaders expressed concerns over attempts to undermine the democratic process. The statement, jointly signed by the forum’s Chairman, Anaere Ugochukwu, and Secretary, Oluwabukola Okeowo, highlighted what they see as efforts to set aside the mandate given by members during the primary.

The chairmen reaffirmed their confidence in the state party leadership, particularly ADC Lagos State Chairman George Ashiru and the State Executive Committee. They praised the committee’s efforts in steering the party’s affairs effectively.

According to the forum, the credibility and future growth of any political party hinge on its dedication to internal democracy and adherence to members’ decisions. They insisted that the votes cast by party faithful must remain the ultimate basis for selecting candidates, warning against any actions that could erode members’ trust.

“As grassroots leaders, we firmly believe that the strength and integrity of a political party are anchored on democratic principles. The collective decision of our members must be upheld without exception,” the communiqué noted.

The forum argued that the ADC’s electoral prospects in upcoming elections would largely depend on the confidence and loyalty of its members and supporters statewide. They urged the national leadership to carefully review the issues surrounding the Lagos governorship primary and ensure that any final decision aligns with the party’s constitution and democratic norms.

The chairmen cautioned that moves perceived as disregarding the preferences of party members could weaken the party’s foundation at the grassroots level and hinder its electoral success. They further appealed to the National Secretariat and NWC to allow the mandate freely expressed during the primary to stand, describing this as essential for preserving unity and stability within the party.

According to the forum, respecting the primary outcome will boost the ADC’s chances of becoming a major political force in Lagos State ahead of the 2027 general elections. The group emphasized that a commitment to democratic values is crucial if the party intends to build on its growing support and achieve electoral victory in the state.

The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has implemented a significant reshuffling of its candidate list in Kano State, removing several nominees put forward by the Kwankwasiyya faction. This move stems from an alleged failure to adhere to a previously established power-sharing agreement between the two political groups.

According to a statement signed by the party’s Kano State Chairman, Hon. Hussaini Isah Mairiga, and obtained by Siyasarmu TV, the decision was taken to enforce a 60-40 distribution formula for elective positions and party offices. Under this arrangement, the Kwankwasiyya group was entitled to 60 percent of the slots, while the NDC structure retained 40 percent.

The revised list, which was copied to National Leader Seriake Dickson, Kwankwasiyya leader Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, and NDC North-West Zonal Chairman Alhaji Muhammadu Rabi’u Sabo Bakinzuwo, introduces new candidates for several key constituencies. For the House of Representatives, the party approved Barrister Isma’il Idris Sani for Kumbotso, Nasiru Ali Ahmed for Nassarawa, Kabiru Ishaq Sa’id for Kano Municipal, Barrister Dayyabu Jamilu Ibrahim for Doguwa/Tudun Wada, Muhammad Hamisu Abubakar for Dawakin Tofa/Rimin Gado/Tofa, Ibrahim Bashir Bango for Sumaila/Takai, and Abdulmajid Isa Umar Mairigar Fata for Gwale federal constituency.

Adjustments were also made to State House of Assembly tickets in Dala, Tarauni, Kumbotso, Ungogo, and Dawakin Kudu constituencies.

NDC spokesperson Comrade Ibrahim Waya explained that the changes were necessary to uphold the agreed formula and avert internal strife. “There was an understanding on the 60-40 sharing formula between the party leadership and Senator Kwankwaso. The action was taken urgently to avoid crisis within the party,” Waya stated.

The development is expected to intensify political tensions within the emerging alliance as both sides continue negotiations over the distribution of positions ahead of the upcoming polls.

In a significant political move, Iyabo Obasanjo, daughter of former President Olusegun Obasanjo and former senator representing Ogun Central, has announced her departure from the All Progressives Congress (APC). She attributed her resignation to what she described as a continuing pattern of marginalization, rejection, and unfair treatment by the party’s leadership in Ogun State.

The decision was conveyed in a letter dated May 31, addressed to the Ogun APC chairman, Yemi Sanusi. Obasanjo, a US-based epidemiologist, had recently sought the party’s governorship ticket for Ogun State but was unsuccessful. She criticized the process that led to the emergence of Solomon Adeola, popularly known as Yayi, as the APC’s gubernatorial candidate, claiming the consensus method used did not follow the party’s established guidelines.

She stated that although she had agreed to support any candidate selected through a consensus process, she was neither consulted nor informed before Adeola’s announcement. Furthermore, some of her supporters were allegedly barred from the venue where the candidate was unveiled and faced intimidation during the event. Despite these concerns, Obasanjo said she accepted the outcome in the interest of party unity and promptly congratulated Adeola.

She also revealed that Adeola later agreed to meet with her supporters, who presented three demands. However, despite a promise to respond within a week, no feedback was given even after two months. This, she said, reinforced a recurring lack of appreciation for her contributions within the party.

Obasanjo expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu, the Ogun APC leadership, and party stakeholders for their support during her time in the APC. She had rejoined partisan politics earlier this year, registering as an APC member in Ward 11, Ibogun, Ifo Local Government Area. Her political career includes serving as Ogun State Commissioner for Health from 2003 to 2007 and as a senator representing Ogun Central from 2007 to 2011. After losing her re-election bid in 2011, she moved to the United States and stayed away from active politics until late 2025, when campaign billboards appeared across Ogun State signaling her potential return for the 2027 governorship race.

A prominent figure in the African Democratic Congress (ADC), John Odigie-Oyegun, has voiced strong concerns about the escalating wave of defections, resignations, and party changes among Nigerian politicians. He believes this trend highlights serious weaknesses in the nation’s political framework.

During a speech in Benin, Edo State, on Sunday, the former governor noted that the constant movement of politicians between parties, often sparked by internal disagreements, raises doubts about their dedication to national progress and the well-being of the populace.

Odigie-Oyegun pointed out that the high frequency of party abandonment indicates that key issues within Nigeria’s democratic system have yet to be addressed. He observed that the behavior of many politicians does not reflect a sincere effort to tackle the difficulties faced by Nigerians, such as economic struggles and security threats.

In his view, if political leaders were genuinely committed to rescuing the country and enhancing citizens’ lives, the massive political realignments occurring ahead of the 2027 general elections would not be necessary. The ADC stalwart argued that the political class seems disconnected from the harsh realities ordinary Nigerians endure, and their actions often lack a true commitment to national advancement.

“If those in power were truly driven by a desire to save the nation, we would not be seeing the developments now unfolding as preparations for the 2027 elections intensify,” he remarked. He stressed that efforts should concentrate on resolving urgent national challenges instead of engaging in political maneuvers that do little to improve people’s lives.

Odigie-Oyegun also called on opposition figures across the country to examine their motivations and determine whether their actions truly aim to reduce the suffering of Nigerians. He emphasized the need for opposition leaders to focus on providing solutions to the nation’s problems rather than pursuing narrow personal ambitions.

Despite his worries, the former governor expressed optimism about the opposition’s potential, stating that a fair electoral environment and strong institutions could pave the way for a change in political leadership. He added that the opposition can successfully challenge the ruling party if the electoral process and state institutions operate with fairness and transparency.

Dele Momodu, a prominent figure in the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has declared that former Vice President Atiku Abubakar stands as President Bola Tinubu’s most formidable opponent ahead of the 2027 presidential election. Speaking on Monday, Momodu emphasized that the upcoming contest will be a clash of political heavyweights, with Atiku emerging as the primary challenger to Tinubu’s leadership.

In a series of posts on X (formerly Twitter), Momodu urged the ADC to overhaul its political approach and embrace modern strategies to remain relevant. He argued that the party must bridge the gap between traditional and contemporary politics, blending conservative values with innovative governance.

According to Momodu, the 2027 election is primarily a duel between Tinubu and Atiku, though a third force might emerge, similar to the 2023 election cycle. However, he cautioned that such a force would likely lack the strength and tenacity to displace the two seasoned politicians. The ADC chieftain stressed the urgency for national reconciliation, reorientation, and reconstruction, noting that the current political climate is fraught with tension and chaos.

Momodu called for a reunification of the North and South, moving beyond ethnic and religious divisions. He lamented the rise of political gangsterism and the erosion of legacies left by Nigeria’s founding fathers, such as Nnamdi Azikiwe, Ahmadu Bello, and Obafemi Awolowo. He warned that without immediate action, the nation risks descending further into turmoil, making it imperative for the ADC to act as a bridge between the old and new guard.