Category: News

The international human rights organization Amnesty International has voiced strong condemnation following the violent disruption of a peaceful demonstration in Ibadan, Oyo State. The group has urged the authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident and to ensure that those responsible are held accountable through fair legal proceedings.

In a statement released on Thursday, Amnesty International detailed that the protest, organized by the Take It Back Movement under the banner #BringBackOurPupilsAndTeachers, was met with aggression from individuals allegedly hired to quell the demonstration. The protesters had been marching from the Mokola area toward Bodija on Tuesday, June 2, when they were attacked near Sango.

The demonstration aimed to highlight what organizers see as a failure by authorities to provide adequate protection for schools, pupils, and teachers against abductions carried out by armed groups. According to the rights group, several protesters suffered injuries, vehicles were vandalized, and personal property was stolen during the attack.

Amnesty International expressed concern over what it described as a troubling trend of using thugs to suppress peaceful assemblies, warning that such actions violate the constitutional right to freedom of assembly. The organization emphasized that people must be able to freely exercise their right to peaceful protest without fear of violence or intimidation. It stated, “Any act capable of undermining freedom of assembly is illegal and portrays unacceptable intolerance of peaceful dissent.”

The group called on Nigerian authorities to protect citizens’ rights to peaceful assembly and to ensure that lawful protesters are shielded from violence and harassment.

Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has advised young Nigerians to stop shifting responsibilities onto Pastor Enoch Adeboye, describing the practice as unjust. Speaking via a post on X on Thursday, Obi emphasized that the 84-year-old cleric should not be burdened with tasks that belong to the younger generation.

Obi’s comments come amid a wave of online criticism targeting the Redeemed Christian Church of God General Overseer over Nigeria’s worsening insecurity. Some young Nigerians had called on Adeboye to lead protests similar to those he organized during former President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration.

According to Obi, it is unfair for able-bodied youths to expect the elderly pastor to solve problems they themselves should address. He stressed that the responsibility of building a better nation rests squarely on the shoulders of the younger generation. They must lead conversations, champion reforms, and drive the change Nigeria urgently needs.

The former Anambra State governor also warned against falling into ethnic and religious traps set by politicians. He noted that during the 2023 elections, especially in Lagos, discussions on governance and development were hijacked by tribal sentiments. Obi expressed concern that similar divisive tactics are being resurrected, often subtly, through narratives designed to create suspicion.

He stated that politicians who lack ideas, character, performance, and vision often exploit identity differences to gain political advantage. Obi urged Nigerians to be vigilant and not allow themselves to be used as tools for disunity.

Defending Adeboye, Obi described him as one of the nation’s foremost fathers of faith, who has consistently preached peace, prayer, love, reconciliation, and national unity. Even when provoked, Adeboye has responded with humility, restraint, wisdom, and grace, Obi added.

“Let me state clearly that Pastor Enoch Adeboye remains one of the foremost fathers of faith in our nation. For decades, he has consistently preached the virtues of peace, prayer, love, reconciliation, and national unity. Even when faced with provocation, his response has always reflected humility, restraint, wisdom, and grace,” Obi said.

He reiterated that the youth must not transfer their duties to elders. Instead, they should take ownership of Nigeria’s reform agenda and resist being used to promote division. Obi’s statement serves as a call to action for young Nigerians to step up and lead, rather than waiting for others to act.

The Obidient Movement, alongside stakeholders from the Kaduna South senatorial district, has expressed strong support for zoning the governorship ticket to Southern Kaduna, arguing this strategy would significantly boost the party’s chances in the 2027 general elections.

Pastor Isaac Ango Makama, who serves as coordinator for both the Obidient Movement and NDC stakeholders in the southern zone, made this known during a press briefing in Kaduna on Wednesday. He noted that rival parties have already made their zoning decisions: the APC and PDP have chosen candidates from the central zone, while the ADC has picked a candidate from the northern district. This leaves the NDC with a clear advantage if it opts for a Southern Kaduna candidate.

According to Makama, fielding a candidate from Southern Kaduna would energize the NDC’s campaign by inspiring voters who yearn for a break from traditional political dynamics. He emphasized that such a move would signal the party’s commitment to rewarding dedication, honoring diversity, and upholding fairness and inclusivity.

Makama clarified that the request is being made peacefully and democratically, with the aim of fostering party unity. He stressed that they are not opposing any other region or faction but are pushing for a decision grounded in recent electoral trends and the hopes of numerous party members across Kaduna State.

He called on the national and state leadership of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, including Senator Seriake Dickson, presidential candidate Peter Obi, Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso, party elders, State Chairman Mordecai Ibrahim, youth groups, women leaders, and all stakeholders to endorse the zoning of the governorship ticket to the Kaduna South senatorial district.

Makama argued that zoning the ticket to Kaduna South is more than a political move—it acknowledges the sacrifices and unwavering democratic spirit of a people who have remained committed to the fight for a better Kaduna State. He asserted that Southern Kaduna has capable men and women with the expertise and vision to lead the state effectively, and that the issue is about ensuring every part of the state has a fair chance at the highest office.

The coordinator highlighted that as the NDC aims to present itself as a credible alternative in Kaduna State, it cannot overlook the political bravery and dedication shown by the people of Southern Kaduna. They stood firm for change during challenging times, and they deserve recognition and inclusion in the party’s leadership plans.

Makama recalled that during the 2023 elections, Southern Kaduna stood out as one of the strongest backers of the movement for change led by Peter Obi and the Labour Party. While many areas were swayed by ethnic, religious, and establishment politics, the people of Southern Kaduna overwhelmingly chose competence, accountability, national unity, and a fresh political path.

With an eye on the 2027 general elections, the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Jigawa State is intensifying its organizational groundwork. Party officials have announced the inauguration of new ward-level secretariats, starting with a freshly commissioned office in Garki local government area, as part of a strategic push to secure a sweeping victory.

Adamu Hudu Kore, chairman of the Garki council, disclosed during a press briefing on Wednesday that the party has already opened one ward office and plans to unveil two more each month until all 11 wards in the area have their own operational hubs. According to Kore, these facilities will serve as central points for party activities, community outreach, and member mobilization.

The initiative also attracted a wave of defectors from rival political parties, who joined the APC ranks. Kore emphasized that Garki remains a stronghold of the APC and that Jigawa as a whole is securely within the party’s grip. He reiterated his administration’s commitment to bolstering democratic institutions and creating platforms for grassroots political participation.

This grassroots expansion reflects the APC’s broader strategy to entrench its presence well ahead of the 2027 polls, ensuring that no ward is left behind in the race for votes.

The Federal High Court in Abuja has postponed the hearing of a lawsuit challenging the interim leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), which is currently led by former Senate President David Mark, to June 8.

Justice Peter Lifu granted the adjournment after the plaintiff’s counsel, Robert Emukpoeruo, requested additional time due to the absence of lawyers for parties seeking to join the case.

The suit, filed by Nafiu-Bala Gombe, questions the legitimacy of the party’s current leadership structure.

During Wednesday’s session, only the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the parties seeking joinder were absent. The court noted that INEC had received hearing notices, but those seeking joinder had not been served.

ADC’s lawyer, Shaibu Aruwa, asked the court to allow the interested parties to present reasons for joining the case, pointing out that issues concerning them had arisen in earlier proceedings before Justice Emeka Nwite.

Emukpoeruo countered by reminding the court that both the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court had ordered an expedited hearing. However, he sought a brief adjournment to file and serve all necessary documents for a fair hearing.

Lawyers representing David Mark, former Governor Rauf Aregbesola, and former ADC National Chairman Ralph Nwosu did not oppose the request.

Defense lawyers accused the plaintiff of causing delays by seeking to reassign the case when it was before Justice Nwite, contrary to the Supreme Court’s directive for an accelerated hearing.

Justice Lifu rejected this argument, stating that parties cannot choose their judge. He emphasized his duty to ensure justice, having been assigned the case by the Chief Judge and guided by the Supreme Court’s instructions.

The judge took responsibility for the failure to serve hearing notices on those seeking joinder and ordered the court bailiff to complete service within 24 hours.

“In the circumstances of this case and the overall interest of justice and in compliance with the orders of the Supreme Court and Court of Appeal, this case is hereby given accelerated hearing,” Justice Lifu ruled.

He directed all parties to file and exchange their documents before the next hearing date.

Gombe is seeking a court order to bar David Mark, Aregbesola, and members of the ADC’s interim National Working Committee from acting as party leaders, arguing that their emergence violated the party’s constitution and the Electoral Act.

Defendants in the case include the ADC, David Mark, Aregbesola, INEC, and Ralph Nwosu.

The Court of Appeal, operating in Makurdi, made a decisive move on Wednesday by dismissing the appeal submitted by Dr. Benjamin Omale, the Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Benue State. This action came after events made the case irrelevant for judicial review.

The appeal, identified as CA/MKD/1199/2024, was originally lodged by Dr. Omale to contest a previous court ruling that favored Mr. Augustine Agada as the legitimate state chairman of the APC in Benue.

While the appeal was still under consideration, a major shift occurred. Mr. Agada’s term ended, prompting a fresh state congress for the APC in Benue, which resulted in Dr. Omale being elected as the new substantive chairman.

Given this turn of events, Dr. Omale requested to withdraw his appeal, arguing that the core issue had become moot and no longer required a legal resolution.

In a unanimous ruling, the appellate court granted his request and struck out the case, concluding that there was no longer a live controversy to address. The court also decided that each party would cover their own legal costs.

This verdict effectively concludes the appellate process stemming from the earlier leadership disputes within the Benue APC.

Commenting on the outcome, Terfa Jirgba, a senior lawyer and APC chieftain in Benue, stated that the decision was a natural end to an academic matter, emphasizing that the expiration of Mr. Agada’s tenure made further legal action pointless. He stressed that courts should not be overwhelmed by cases that have already been resolved by events, and that the panel acted properly by dismissing the appeal.

It is worth noting that the internal conflict originated from disagreements over the legitimacy of the state executive committee, which led to multiple legal battles.

Former Minister of Culture, Tourism and National Orientation, Edem Duke, has firmly rejected the notion that ex-President Goodluck Jonathan might be enticed back into active partisan politics in the lead-up to the 2027 general elections, labeling such speculation as ill-advised.

During an appearance on Arise Television’s Prime Time program on Wednesday, Duke emphasized that Jonathan’s presidential tenure stands as a landmark era in Nigeria’s democratic journey, and argued that the former leader’s esteemed position as a statesman should remain untainted by political maneuvers.

Duke voiced unease about reports suggesting Jonathan could return to the political frontline, asserting that those pushing this narrative are trying to exploit the former president’s credibility and goodwill for their own political gains.

According to Duke, Jonathan has cultivated a formidable reputation both within Nigeria and across the African continent, and his influence as a statesman far surpasses the realm of electoral contests.

The ex-minister stressed that Jonathan fully grasps the weight of the political conversations swirling around him and is astute enough to avoid jeopardizing his hard-won standing by chasing another shot at the presidency.

He stated: “The idea that the distinguished President Goodluck Jonathan might return to active politics fills me with deep concern. This is an iconic figure whose time in office redefined many of Nigeria’s finest qualities.

“After attaining the stature of one of Nigeria’s most cerebral presidents, someone who has achieved remarkable feats across the continent, how can he be dragged into what I see as a political lottery by individuals who ought to focus on expanding his role as a statesman—not just in Nigeria or Africa, but globally?

“It is regrettable that those who have yet to get their own affairs in order now think they can trade on the integrity and towering personality of former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan like a pawn on a political chessboard.

“That’s where my anxiety lies, and I believe President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan has his wits about him and understands all these issues being raised around him.

“I know that what he stands to gain as a former president far outweighs the risk of chasing another four-year ambition.”

Abdulmumin Jibrin, a former four-term House of Representatives member, has voiced strong confidence that President Bola Tinubu will secure a second term in 2027, claiming the opposition has squandered its opportunity to upset the ruling party.

During an appearance on Arise Television’s Prime Time program on Wednesday, Jibrin assessed the current political landscape and argued that the dynamics overwhelmingly favor Tinubu ahead of the next presidential election.

The lawmaker asserted that no matter how the opposition strategizes or who they put forward as candidates, the ruling party remains in an advantageous position. He went further to say that even if prominent opposition figures such as Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and Seyi Makinde were to merge their efforts under one banner, Tinubu would still emerge victorious.

Jibrin highlighted that the opposition’s internal divisions only strengthen the President’s chances, predicting a clear win for Tinubu in the upcoming election. He stated: “I will say on a general note, on a general scale, and with the reality on ground and all of the political dynamics that we can see, no matter how you analyse it, whether with one presidential candidate you did not imagine, whether with another candidate from Ibadan, emerging, however you look at it, the opposition lost it already. I used to say something, even if they come together, the President will defeat them, not to talk about when they’ve split. The president will win this election, I tell you that.”

Prominent activist and politician Aisha Yesufu has voiced strong disapproval of how the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) managed the process for selecting its senatorial candidate in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). During a meeting with party officials, she criticized the handling of the selection and the explanations given for her failure to secure the ticket.

Yesufu pointed out that party leaders had previously promised to hold consultations and engage with stakeholders, and she stressed that such promises should have been kept. She noted that she was recently told her late entry into the party was a factor, which she found unreasonable.

“I was told recently that I came in late to this party. Who does that? I have endured a lot in the last few days. My name has been dragged all over,” she said. The activist clarified that she was not demanding preferential treatment, but rather a transparent process where all aspirants have an equal chance.

“I am not even asking for a level playing ground, I am asking for a ground,” she declared. Yesufu added that she would have accepted defeat if the process had been fair. “I am ready to accept that I lost. If I lost fairly, I am ready to accept that I lost.” She also mentioned that she had avoided public responses to criticism because she is focused on a larger goal.

The governorship candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Zamfara State, Mahdi Aliyu Muhammad, has dismissed rumors that he has stepped down from the 2027 election race.

According to a statement released by his press secretary, Salisu Mohammed Mada, the campaign team labelled the viral story as baseless and deceptive, accusing its proponents of trying to sow discord among party members and the general public.

The statement reaffirmed that Muhammad remains the legitimate candidate of the ADC in Zamfara, having won the party’s primary election fair and square.

Mahdi Aliyu Muhammad has not quit the contest, nor has he authorized anyone to make such an announcement on his behalf, the campaign insisted.

The team called on party loyalists, stakeholders, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, and the public to ignore the false reports.

Furthermore, the campaign condemned the spread of what it termed misinformation, warning that such actions could trigger avoidable political unrest and undermine democratic processes.

It reiterated Muhammad’s unwavering determination to participate in the 2027 governorship election and to advance his developmental vision for Zamfara State.