Category: News

A faction within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Kebbi State has appealed to the party’s 2027 governorship candidate, Abubakar Malami, to pick his deputy from Kebbi South Senatorial District. The group, called the Kebbi ADC Unity Forum, specifically proposed Paul Gambo Tase for the number two position, emphasizing that this would ensure fairness, inclusivity, and regional equilibrium within the party.

Garba Abdulkareem, the forum’s coordinator, issued a statement on Thursday in Birnin Kebbi, explaining that Tase, a former Labour Party gubernatorial candidate and native of Kebbi South, brings substantial experience and competence to the role. Abdulkareem noted that since Malami hails from Kebbi Central, the deputy slot should logically be zoned to Kebbi South to maintain balance.

The forum described itself as a coalition of party members, professionals, community leaders, youth, and women united in strengthening ADC’s chances in the state. According to the group, Tase has expressed readiness to serve if selected by the party leadership. Tase, a retired economist who worked with the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), previously contested the 2023 governorship election under the Labour Party in Kebbi State.

Malami, a former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, recently secured the ADC governorship ticket for the 2027 elections. The forum’s call aligns with ongoing consultations aimed at boosting the party’s electoral prospects through strategic ticket balancing.

A recently surfaced video appears to contradict the denial made by House Deputy Spokesperson Philip Agbese regarding his endorsement of Ikenga Ugochinyere for the position of Minority Leader in the House of Representatives. The footage, made public by Ugochinyere, shows Agbese putting pen to paper on two separate forms on May 21, 2026.

During Thursday’s plenary session, Agbese had raised a point of privilege, claiming his signature had been forged on a document that nominated Ugochinyere—a lawmaker from the Action People’s Party (APP)—for the Minority Leader post. He argued that the publication of the document with his purported endorsement violated his privileges as a member of the Minority Caucus.

The controversy erupted after 61 members of the Minority Caucus reportedly signed to back Ugochinyere’s candidacy. Agbese, however, maintained that he never authorized the use of his name. In response, Ugochinyere released the video evidence, which he says proves Agbese willingly signed the endorsement forms, directly challenging the forgery allegation.

The video has since sparked reactions within political circles, with many calling for a transparent resolution to the dispute. The incident underscores the ongoing jostling for leadership positions within the House’s minority bloc.

Governor Nasir Idris of Kebbi State has made it clear that he feels no shame in supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s bid for a second term. Speaking at a gathering organized by the Tinubu Support Organisation in Birnin Kebbi, the governor addressed critics who questioned his vocal backing of the president. He argued that such criticisms come from people unfamiliar with the realities on the ground in Kebbi.

Idris pointed to ongoing federal projects in the state as evidence of Tinubu’s commitment to the region. “The president truly cares for Kebbi and its people,” he said. According to the governor, these developmental efforts are the reason he remains steadfast in his support. “Democracy is about delivering tangible benefits to the people,” he added.

The governor also recalled that Kebbi was the first state in the country to formally endorse Tinubu for a second term, with thousands of residents gathering at the Haliru Abdu Stadium last year to show their support. He described Tinubu as his leader and mentor, emphasizing that his administration will continue to back initiatives that foster growth in Kebbi and Nigeria at large.

Idris dismissed a viral clip questioning why he is at the forefront of the re-election campaign, noting that the person behind it is not from Kebbi. “We support the president 100 percent,” he declared, reaffirming his unwavering loyalty.

Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, is scheduled to deliver the convocation lecture at the University of Port Harcourt (UNIPORT) this Saturday. The event will take place at the university’s New Convocation Arena in Choba, Rivers State, starting at 10 a.m.

Lere Olayinka, the minister’s Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, released a statement on Thursday confirming the engagement. Wike will address the audience on the theme “Leadership and Infrastructure Development in Nigeria: Lessons for Future Leaders.”

An invitation letter dated April 20, 2026, from UNIPORT’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Owunari A. Georgewill, extended the request. The VC noted that the lecture provides a platform for distinguished individuals to engage graduates and the academic community on topics crucial to national development, leadership, and society’s future.

The letter stated, “Your Excellency’s distinguished record of service, exemplary leadership, and enduring contributions to governance and infrastructure exemplify visionary statesmanship. We believe your presence will honor your alma mater and strengthen the link between leadership, scholarship, and national progress.”

Wike accepted the invitation through a letter from his Chief of Staff, Chidi Amadi, dated April 23, 2026. The acceptance letter explained that the topic selection stems from the minister’s belief that effective leadership must produce tangible results, especially through critical infrastructure and social services that improve citizens’ lives.

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has raised a red flag for 148 communities spread across 17 local government areas in Jigawa State, warning that they are highly susceptible to flooding during the 2026 rainy season. This alert came during a disaster preparedness meeting held in Dutse, as part of a nationwide effort to bolster resilience against natural calamities.

Speaking on behalf of NEMA Director-General Zubaida Umar, the North-West Zonal Director Aliyu Shehu pointed out that settlements located near rivers and waterways face a significant danger of inundation. He urged residents to adopt preventive steps before the peak of the rainfall season arrives.

The gathering, held under the banner “Strengthening Disaster Risk Governance for a Resilient Nigeria,” attracted representatives from emergency response bodies, traditional rulers, community leaders, and other stakeholders. Their objective was to explore ways to reduce the impact of possible disasters.

NEMA issued practical advice to those living in high-risk zones: relocate if necessary, ensure drainage channels remain unblocked, and stay updated on weather alerts and official announcements. The agency also emphasized the importance of knowing evacuation routes and emergency procedures.

According to NEMA, flood events rank among the most devastating natural hazards in Nigeria, causing deaths, displacement, ruin of homes and farmlands, and damage to public infrastructure. The agency reiterated that early action and public awareness are vital to cutting disaster-related losses.

The Executive Secretary of the Jigawa State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Hannafi Yakubu, assured locals that the state is ready to handle emergencies. He announced that 20 speedboats have been set aside for evacuation and rescue missions in susceptible communities. Additionally, Yakubu confirmed that relief supplies, including food and essential goods, have been prepared to support flood victims.

Officials from the Jigawa State Environmental Protection Agency reported that efforts to desilt drains and carry out environmental sanitation are being scaled up across the state. These measures aim to improve water flow and lower the chances of urban flooding.

Participants at the session stressed the need for enhanced early warning systems, greater community awareness, better environmental stewardship, and well-coordinated emergency responses to tackle the looming flood threats.

Resident doctors at the Federal Medical Center (FMC) in Abeokuta, Ogun State, commenced a three-day warning strike on Thursday, June 4, 2026, following a recent theft and security breach within the hospital grounds. The industrial action was declared by Dr. Olanipekun Arise-Kola, President of the Association of Resident Doctors (ARD) at FMC Abeokuta, during an emergency general meeting held on the same day.

In a communiqué signed by Dr. Arise-Kola and the Assistant General Secretary, Olufemi Alawode, the doctors expressed their unanimous decision to temporarily withdraw services as a protest against what they termed persistent security failures that endanger healthcare workers’ lives and property. The statement highlighted a specific incident at the House Officers’ Quarters, where five mobile phones, one laptop, cash, and a driver’s licence were stolen.

The communiqué read: “The Association of Resident Doctors at FMC Abeokuta formally brings to Management’s attention the grave concerns of its members regarding the recent security breach and theft at the House Officers’ Quarters. During this unfortunate event, several valuable belongings were taken, including five mobile phones, a laptop, cash, and a driver’s licence.”

It further stated: “This occurrence has intensified long-standing concerns about inadequate security on the premises. After an emergency meeting, members unanimously agreed that the current security situation poses a significant threat to their safety and property. Accordingly, members have resolved to undertake a three-day warning strike from June 4 to June 6, 2026, demanding that Management provide immediate, satisfactory assurances on implementing concrete security measures.”

Among the doctors’ demands are the replacement of stolen items by management, replacement of the current security firm with a more competent one, installation of adequate lighting across the hospital, deployment of CCTV cameras at key locations, provision of armed security personnel, and establishment of a functional police post near the quarters. The association reiterated its commitment to a cordial relationship with management but stressed that worker safety must be a top priority.

Governor Nasir Idris of Kebbi State conducted an on-site assessment of roads in Dandi Local Government Area that were severely damaged by torrential rains on Thursday. During the visit, he assured residents that the government would move quickly to rehabilitate the affected infrastructure.

According to a statement released by the governor’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Yahaya Sarki, the roads impacted include the Kingakwai–Fana–Dakingari Road and the Fana Township Road, which serves as a critical link between Fana town and surrounding communities.

Hon. Dr. Suleiman Fana, the lawmaker representing the area in the Kebbi State House of Assembly, along with the Commissioner for Works, Engr. Abdullahi Umar Faruk, briefed the governor on the full extent of the destruction during the inspection. The commissioner recommended the construction of additional culverts and other engineering measures to restore the roads and mitigate future erosion.

Governor Idris, who was accompanied by Ambassador Sa’idu Usman Nasamu Dakingari and other top officials, inspected the damaged sites firsthand. He promised that the state government would take prompt action to address the situation and ensure the roads are returned to good condition.

The Nigerian government has announced an escalation in rescue efforts aimed at securing the freedom of schoolchildren and educators taken hostage in Oyo and Borno states. This initiative has been elevated to a critical national concern, according to official statements.

During a security meeting in Abuja, Mohammed Idris, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, emphasized that the administration views these abductions as a direct assault on the country’s educational framework and its future. He confirmed that security forces are fully mobilized for search-and-rescue missions, operating under the explicit orders of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Idris reiterated the government’s unwavering commitment to bringing every victim home safely and ensuring that the perpetrators face legal consequences. “The President has been clear: no child should be held captive, and we will spare no resource to free them,” he stated.

Addressing the families of the abducted, the minister conveyed President Tinubu’s personal assurance that all possible measures are being taken. “I bring you the promise of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu that we are doing everything in our power to reunite you with your loved ones,” Idris added.

In a related directive, President Tinubu has instructed security agencies to mount a strong, coordinated response as efforts to trace and apprehend the kidnappers continue without pause.

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has voiced strong disapproval of what it sees as increasingly harsh and impractical bail conditions set by courts and law enforcement bodies nationwide. In a recent statement, NBA President Afam Osigwe emphasized that bail conditions should not undermine the constitutional right to temporary release for individuals awaiting trial. He argued that bail exists solely to secure a defendant’s court appearance, not to serve as a penalty before conviction.

Osigwe highlighted disturbing trends where accused individuals are required to produce sureties holding top civil service positions (Grade Levels 16 or 17) or to offer landed assets valued at hundreds of millions of naira. Such demands, he noted, effectively transform bail into a form of pre-trial imprisonment, as many defendants cannot meet these conditions. The NBA president reminded judicial officers that Section 165(1) of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA), 2015, explicitly prohibits excessive bail terms.

Citing landmark rulings, the NBA referenced the Supreme Court case Suleman & Anor v. Commissioner of Police, Plateau State, which established that bail must guarantee liberty before trial without imposing impossible obstacles. Additionally, the Court of Appeal judgment in Dasuki v. Director-General, State Security Service criticized the requirement for active civil servants as sureties, labeling it unrealistic and contradicting public service rules.

Osigwe called on all courts to adopt fair, reasonable, and attainable bail terms, warning that unachievable conditions amount to a denial of bail. He further argued that restricting sureties to high-ranking civil servants lacks legal justification and exacerbates prison overcrowding, as defendants remain in custody even after being granted bail.

The Nigerian Presidency has announced the arrest of an individual believed to be responsible for creating a fabricated audio clip falsely attributed to President Bola Tinubu. The suspect, identified as Ifechukwu Dennis, was taken into custody in Benin City.

This development follows the circulation of a manipulated video that featured the fake audio, targeting social media critic Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as Verydarkman. The video sparked widespread backlash online before prompting official action.

Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, had earlier shared the AI-generated clip and threatened legal measures against those involved. In a Facebook post on Thursday night, Onanuga disclosed that the police had arrested Dennis, who allegedly originated the false voice and passed it off as President Tinubu’s.

According to Onanuga, the Inspector General of Police’s special team carried out the arrest. He added that the police force would release a formal statement providing further details on the case.