Category: News

Senator Adams Oshiomhole has leveled serious accusations against Senate President Godswill Akpabio, claiming that his daughter secured a high-ranking role at the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) without adhering to proper procedures. The former Edo State governor made these remarks during an appearance on the Mic On Podcast, hosted by Seun Okinbaloye.

Oshiomhole asserted that Akpabio had personal stakes in the NNPC, alleging that former NNPC Group CEO Mele Kyari helped facilitate the appointment of Akpabio’s daughter. He stated that the appointment bypassed the standard recruitment process, based on information available to him. Oshiomhole further criticized the NNPC for what he described as widespread nepotism, claiming that both past and current officials have placed relatives in various positions within the company.

He suggested that if the NNPC’s payroll were examined, it would reveal that the top levels of the organization have been turned into a family affair. However, Oshiomhole clarified that he does not object to relatives of public officials working at the NNPC as long as they are qualified and recruited through legitimate means. He emphasized that the issue arises only when individuals are given jobs they do not merit or for which they are not qualified, and when proper procedures are ignored.

Oshiomhole also addressed criticism regarding the Senate’s handling of an arrest warrant issued against Kyari, defending the legislative body’s actions as constitutional. The podcast interview touched on broader issues of governance and accountability in Nigeria’s oil sector.

Former Nigerian Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar (retired), has unveiled startling details about how the late General Sani Abacha compelled him to participate in the 1993 coup d’état. The revelations are contained in Chapter 17 of his autobiography titled ‘Call of Duty’, a 264-page, 27-chapter memoir.

At the time, Abdulsalami served as Commandant of the National War College, a position he held amid escalating political turmoil following the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election. He recounted that he declined the post of Chief of Army Staff twice after Abacha seized power from the Interim National Government, firmly stating that he did not wish to become a pawn for civilians exploiting the military.

The former general noted that Abacha, who was the Minister of Defense under the interim government, remained the highest-ranking military officer in active service and within the administration, having been retained by the Babangida regime to ensure military stability. He disclosed that his initial awareness of the unfolding plot came from Rear Admiral Suleiman Saidu, then Chief of Naval Staff, who visited his home on a Monday evening in November 1993 with an urgent alert. Saidu inquired if Abdulsalami knew that Abacha and Gusau had traveled to Abuja. Abdulsalami was taken aback, as Abacha had scheduled a meeting with him for the following day. Saidu warned that the army was considering a coup and that the navy would not participate. Abdulsalami assured him that he had no knowledge of any such plan and was not involved.

Further confirming his ignorance, Abdulsalami wrote that retired Major-General Shehu Musa Yar’Adua telephoned him on November 17, 1993, asking what was happening in Abuja. When Abdulsalami asked for clarification, Yar’Adua stated that they were attempting to remove Chief Ernest Shonekan. Again, Abdulsalami professed no knowledge and said he would investigate. This was the second time he heard the coup rumor, he emphasized.

A devastating fire swept through a mechanic workshop in Ibadan, Oyo State, destroying at least four vehicles and other valuables worth millions of naira. The incident occurred on Saturday evening in the Akingbade area along Old Ife Road.

According to sources, the flames also consumed a container located on the premises. Fortunately, no lives were lost in the blaze.

Hon. Maroof Akinwande, Chairman of the Oyo State Fire Service, confirmed the incident on Sunday. He stated that the operation was a joint effort with personnel from the Federal Fire Service.

Upon arriving at the scene, firefighters found a container and four vehicles engulfed in thick, billowing smoke. The fire was quickly brought under control, preventing it from spreading to adjacent properties.

Akinwande attributed the cause of the fire to sparks from an engine compartment that ignited combustible materials. He emphasized that no casualties were recorded and hailed the collaboration with the Federal Fire Service, Ibadan Command.

In a separate incident on the same day, a shop and a residential building in Ogbomoso were also ravaged by fire. The incident occurred at No. 5 Ile Atagbonrin, Stadium Area, Ogbomoso, affecting properties worth millions of naira.

Akinwande confirmed this incident as well, noting that a prefabricated shop adjoining a six-room residential building was engulfed in flames.

In Ebonyi State, political contenders eyeing various offices in the 2027 general elections faced a rigorous vetting session over the weekend. The Ohaukwu Youth General Assembly organized a town hall where candidates outlined their visions and committed to a peace accord, vowing to maintain non-violent campaigns.

The gathering took place at Grace Garden and Event Centre in Ohaukwu Local Government Area, drawing aspirants for multiple positions, youth representatives, local leaders, and security personnel. Organizers described it as a step toward fostering peaceful political discourse and accountable leadership before the polls.

Mr. Emmanuel Onah, National President of the Ohaukwu Youth Assembly, explained that the event aimed to give young people a direct line to question aspirants and gauge their ability to offer effective governance. He noted that the Assembly is the first youth body to unite youths from Ezzamgbo, Ngbo, Effium, and Ezza-Effium communities under a single platform.

Onah highlighted the organization’s efforts to curb cultism, drug misuse, and youth unrest in the area, insisting that the current peace in the local government must not be jeopardized by political maneuvering. He revealed that every candidate present signed a peace accord, pledging to run peaceful campaigns and ensure their followers avoid violence or actions that could disturb public order.

‘We want our mothers to sleep peacefully at night. Our goal is development, unity, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence. That’s why we called all candidates to share their plans with the youth before asking for votes,’ Onah stated.

The youth leader expressed disappointment over the no-shows by some invited aspirants, suggesting their absence showed disrespect for the youth whose support they need. He emphasized that the program was open to candidates from all political parties and conducted with full security clearance from relevant agencies.

One of the aspirants, Barrister Tochukwu Ogalagu, known as T-Man, who is running for the Ebonyi/Ohaukwu Federal Constituency, identified joblessness as a key driver of insecurity and social strife among young people. He argued that providing meaningful employment for youth would substantially curb violence and criminal activities.

‘A representative’s first duty is to get youths off the streets. If young people have jobs, there will be no conflict. We offer not rice or handouts but employment and empowerment chances,’ Ogalagu said. He vowed to focus on job creation, educational scholarships, skills training, and infrastructure development if elected. He also pledged to fund postgraduate studies for qualified youths in the constituency and support women through cassava-processing projects and access to soft loans.

Chief Onyeoma Kelechi, APGA candidate for Ohaukwu South State Constituency, highlighted his track record in education and youth empowerment. He said his foundation has established schools and scholarship schemes, which he would expand if elected to public office. Kelechi noted that legislative work goes beyond making laws to include robust oversight and ensuring government projects benefit the people. He assured constituents he would push for policies that create jobs and improve governance.

Barrister Christopher Ajagba, National Democratic Coalition (NDC) candidate for Ohaukwu North State Constituency, prioritized peacebuilding. He lamented the long-running Effium and Ezza-Effium crisis and other communal conflicts, stressing that sustainable development depends on a peaceful environment. Ajagba promised to advance initiatives that foster reconciliation, stability, employment, and empowerment across the constituency.

Mr. Sebastian Valentine Odono, NDC candidate for the Ebonyi/Ohaukwu Federal Constituency, urged voters to judge candidates on competence, vision, and delivery capacity. Odono, a political newcomer, unveiled a six-point agenda focusing on effective representation, education, agriculture, youth development, and economic empowerment. He pledged to bring modern farming technologies to boost productivity and help farmers move from subsistence to commercial agriculture.

Comrade Christian Mayor Iduma, Labour Party candidate for Ohaukwu North State Constituency, emphasized the need for visionary leadership that can attract development partners and opportunities to the area. He described his campaign as a ‘healing mandate’ aimed at restoring lasting peace, especially in conflict-hit communities. Iduma called on youths to prioritize competence and character over party loyalty when voting.

Mr. Kenneth Onwe, APGA candidate for Ohaukwu North State Constituency, said grassroots development would be central to his legislative agenda. He pointed to interventions by his foundation, such as educational support and aid for widows and the vulnerable. Onwe promised to work with development agencies to bring projects and improve living standards in the constituency.

A guest speaker, Barrister Mishael Elom, warned against social media abuse and reminded youths of the legal risks of cyberbullying, defamation, and privacy invasion. He urged participants to focus on issue-based politics and avoid actions that could incite hatred or damage others’ reputations. According to him, responsible use of digital platforms is vital for peaceful coexistence and strengthening democratic values.

The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has firmly denied allegations that its presidential running mate, Rabiu Kwankwaso, ever intended to depart from the party. Osa Director, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, clarified that these rumors are baseless and stem from efforts to discredit the NDC.

During an interview on Arise News, Director pointed fingers at the ruling party and certain opposition figures for fueling these false narratives. He emphasized that Kwankwaso never made any threats to leave, calling the reports mere conjecture spread by those who wish to undermine the party’s progress.

Director also highlighted instances of internal interference, particularly in Delta State, where an incumbent allegedly backed multiple aspirants against the party’s candidate, Collins Edema. This, he said, reflects the real challenges the NDC faces, not internal defection threats.

The controversy arose after media reports suggested Kwankwaso was unhappy with the replacement of his preferred candidates in Kano State, allegedly violating a power-sharing agreement. However, the NDC insists that the changes were made to honor the initial pact between the party structure and the Kwankwasiyya faction.

A document from the Kano State NDC Chairman, Hon. Hussaini Isah Mairiga, confirmed that the candidate substitutions were necessary to uphold the earlier agreement on ticket distribution. The party maintains that these adjustments were procedural and not a trigger for any departure threat.

The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has officially postponed the 2026 Batch ‘B’ Stream I orientation exercise for corps members assigned to Niger State. This development was disclosed in a statement issued by Caroline Embu, the Director of Information and Public Relations.

According to the NYSC, the delay stems from ongoing refurbishment work at the Paiko orientation camp in Niger State. The state government initiated the renovations after a severe windstorm caused extensive damage to the facility. As a result, prospective corps members are advised not to report for the orientation course until further notice.

The scheme’s management is actively seeking an alternative location to host the orientation program. A new start date and additional details will be shared with affected individuals in the coming weeks. The NYSC expressed regret for any inconvenience caused to corps members and their families, while thanking them for their understanding and patience.

Former Plateau State Governor, Jonah David Jang, has voiced strong opposition to a recent Appeal Court decision that recognizes Hausa residents born and raised in Jos North Local Government Area as indigenes. In a statement released on Saturday, Jang argued that the ruling threatens the cultural identity and indigenous rights of Plateau State’s original inhabitants. He emphasized that indigene certificates are deeply tied to ethnic groups historically recognized as native to the state and should not be awarded based solely on long-term residency.

The court, led by Justice C. Donglong, delivered the judgment last week, declaring that a person of Hausa origin born in Jos North LGA is entitled to indigene status and an indigene certificate. The case was initiated by Fatima Baba Akawu and Baba Alhaji Akawu, who sought recognition for the first claimant despite her Hausa ethnicity. The court addressed four key issues, including whether Akawu’s birth in the area to a father who is a bonafide indigene qualifies her for such status.

Jang described the ruling as having serious implications for the state’s heritage and cautioned that it could permit non-indigenes to claim indigene certificates, thereby altering the existing framework. He stressed that debates over citizenship, residency, and indigeneity have long been central to Plateau’s political and social landscape, and he questioned the court’s haste in resolving a matter that could inflame tensions. According to Jang, preserving the distinction between residents and indigenes is essential to protect the interests, heritage, and political representation of indigenous communities.

While acknowledging that every Nigerian has the constitutional right to live and work anywhere in the country, Jang insisted that this does not automatically confer indigene status, which carries unique cultural and historical weight. He called on policymakers and stakeholders to carefully weigh any changes to indigene certificate policies to avoid unintended consequences. The former governor’s remarks come amid ongoing discussions about identity and belonging in Plateau State, where ethnicity and residency have often been contentious issues.

The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Cross River State (UNICROSS), Professor Francesca Bassey, has pointed to unauthorized land occupiers as the root cause of the escalating security issues on campus. During a recent visit to the palace of the Paramount Ruler of Calabar South, HRM Hogan Itam, she presented official documents and compensation records to substantiate the university’s ownership of the disputed land. Bassey emphasized that the illegal settlements are not only encroaching on university property but also fostering a surge in criminal activities.

She revealed that individuals living in the occupied zones are allegedly involved in theft, attempted sexual assault on female students, and the distribution of illegal drugs within the campus. The financial toll on the institution has been severe, with losses amounting to over N300 million from stolen cables, sliding windows, and equipment from various faculties, including Engineering, Education, and Physical Sciences, as well as the University Staff School and the new auditorium.

The VC further recounted an incident where university security personnel were assaulted when they tried to stop someone from erecting a building on the institution’s land. The security team was chased away by individuals from the encroaching community, thwarting efforts to protect the university’s assets. This persistent encroachment has hampered the university’s ability to use its land for educational purposes and delayed critical infrastructure projects.

In response, the Efut traditional leadership condemned the encroachment and the associated crimes, including vandalism and attacks on security staff. They reaffirmed their support for UNICROSS, recognizing its role in education and community development, and pledged to collaborate with the university to restore peace and order.

Governor Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto State has officially announced the creation of governing councils for multiple state-owned higher education institutions. Additionally, he has designated Alhaji Muhammad Hamim Nuhu Sanusi, the Emir of Dutse, as the Pro-Chancellor of Sokoto State University. These decisions are effective immediately and are intended to improve oversight and management within the state’s education sector.

The newly formed councils cover a wide range of institutions, such as the College of Nursing and Midwifery, Umaru Ali Shinkafi Polytechnic, Shehu Shagari College of Education, Shehu Shagari University of Education, the College of Agriculture in Wurno, Sultan Abdul Rahman College of Health Technology in Gwadabawa, the College of Legal and Islamic Studies, and the College of Nursing Science in Tambuwal.

In an official statement released by Abubakar Bawa, the Director General of Media and Publicity to the Governor, specific chairpersons have been appointed for each council. Alhaji Yusha’u Kebbe will lead the council for the College of Nursing and Midwifery, while Professor Aminu Salihu Mikailu takes the helm at Umaru Ali Shinkafi Polytechnic. Ambassador Sahabi Isah Gada was chosen to chair the council for Shehu Shagari College of Education, and Professor G. V. Ardo was appointed to head the council for Shehu Shagari University of Education.

Further appointments include Alhaji Yusuf Jega as chairman of the council for the College of Agriculture in Wurno, and Alhaji Yusuf Muhammad Goronyo for Sultan Abdul Rahman College of Health Technology in Gwadabawa. Justice Ladan Buda Tsamiya will oversee the council for the College of Legal and Islamic Studies, and Professor Hamza Muhammad Maishanu will lead the council for the College of Nursing Science in Tambuwal.

Each council comprises a mix of academics, government officials, representatives from professional bodies, and key officers from the respective institutions. Their primary responsibilities include setting policy directions and supporting institutional growth.

The state government has expressed optimism that the newly established councils, along with the Emir of Dutse as Pro-Chancellor of Sokoto State University, will significantly enhance the quality of tertiary education and governance throughout Sokoto State.

Prince Dapo Abiodun, the Governor of Ogun State, has announced that his government is on heightened alert in response to the escalating security challenges plaguing the nation. He outlined plans to implement advanced technological measures aimed at fortifying the state’s security framework and ensuring the safety of its citizens.

During a strategic gathering of the All Progressives Congress (APC) at the Presidential Lodge in Ibara, Abeokuta, Governor Abiodun expressed deep worry over the increasing incidents of terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping throughout the country. He reassured residents that his administration would take decisive actions to prevent criminal elements from establishing a presence in Ogun.

“We are stepping up by using technology to protect the lives of our people. We will not sit back and wait for any attack,” Abiodun declared. He emphasized that the government would prioritize the safety of residents through substantial investments in security infrastructure, closer cooperation with law enforcement agencies, and ongoing community involvement initiatives.

The governor stated, “Our government reaffirms its dedication to safeguarding lives and property in Ogun State. Through targeted spending on security infrastructure, collaboration with security bodies, and community participation, we are committed to preserving Ogun as a safe, peaceful, and attractive destination for investment.” He noted that particular focus would be given to securing schools and academic institutions, as children represent the future of the state and must be shielded from harm.

Abiodun explained that security around schools has been bolstered through enhanced surveillance, strategic placement of security personnel, improved inter-agency cooperation, and the use of modern technology to monitor at-risk areas. He stated that these steps are designed to discourage criminal activities and maintain safe learning environments.

The governor also revealed that while his administration has invested heavily in infrastructure, there will now be a stronger emphasis on human capital development and social welfare programs to alleviate the impact of current economic hardships on citizens. He reiterated his pledge to enhance the well-being of the people and ensure that the benefits of democracy reach every segment of society.

Additionally, Governor Abiodun praised APC members in Ogun for conducting peaceful and orderly primary elections, calling it a sign of political maturity, unity, and discipline. “Our primary was inclusive, transparent, and fair. We came together, discussed, and selected our candidates without conflict. Although many aspired, only one could win. Those who stepped down for others are the unsung champions of this process,” he remarked.

Earlier, Ogun APC Chairman Chief Yemi Sanusi lauded party members for their exemplary behavior during and after the primaries, noting that the strategic meeting aimed to boost preparations and mobilization for the 2027 general elections.