Category: News

In a decisive move to combat environmental degradation, the Ogun State Waste Management Authority (OGWAMA) apprehended 45 individuals for illegal waste dumping. The offenders were nabbed in the Panseke, Quarry Road, and Kolobo districts of the state capital for discarding trash on roadsides, highways, and other public areas.

The arrests, conducted on Thursday, underscore the government’s commitment to upholding environmental regulations. Speaking before their community service, Special Adviser to the Governor on OGWAMA, Farook Akintunde, highlighted the severe repercussions of such actions, including the spoiling of the state’s visual appeal, the spread of diseases through the air, and the pollution of underground water sources.

Akintunde expressed dismay at the offenders’ conduct, noting that it was inexcusable given the extensive public awareness campaigns about proper waste management and the availability of government-licensed waste collectors. He revealed that due to the offenders’ apologies and written assurances to comply with the law, coupled with their immediate registration with local waste collectors, they were permitted to serve community service instead of facing prosecution. However, he warned that any future violation would result in legal action under the state’s environmental laws.

The Special Adviser also issued a stern warning to other residents still engaging in indiscriminate dumping, urging them to desist immediately or risk facing severe penalties.

The Nigerian Senate has officially greenlit the 2026 budget for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), setting total spending at N2.285 trillion. This approval, which took place on Thursday, allocates funds for both administrative operations and developmental projects within the capital city.

The decision followed a detailed review of a harmonized report from a joint committee of the Senate and House of Representatives, presented during a plenary session in Abuja. Senator Austin Akobundu, Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on FCT, delivered the report on behalf of Chairman Ibrahim Bomai.

According to the report, the budget is based on projected revenues of N2.385 trillion. The approved expenditure includes N165.7 billion for personnel costs, N378.2 billion for overheads, and a substantial N1.741 trillion dedicated to capital projects. This breakdown means that 76.19% of the total budget is earmarked for capital expenditure, while recurrent costs account for 23.8%.

The committee highlighted that the budget aligns with constitutional requirements and was shaped after extensive consultations with officials from the FCT Administration. Key lawmakers praised the budget as balanced and growth-focused, emphasizing its potential to boost infrastructure and security in Abuja and its satellite towns.

Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin lauded the budget as exceptional, noting that N1.7 trillion of the over N2 trillion total is directed at capital investments. He commended the FCT minister for this achievement. Senator Abdul Ningi also described the budget as well-structured, addressing previous concerns raised by the Senate Committee on the FCT.

The Lagos State Wastewater Management Office (LSWMO) has taken enforcement action against Pinnock Beach Estate, located in Osapa London, Lekki, along with several other properties across the state. This decision comes after reports of illegal discharge of untreated sewage into the environment.

On Thursday, May 7, 2026, the agency carried out the sealing operation following multiple warnings and abatement notices that had been issued to the affected premises. The move aims to curb environmental degradation and protect public health.

Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, stated that Pinnock Beach Estate faced closure for violating regulations by pumping untreated sewage directly into a canal. This act caused pollution, foul odors, and posed serious risks to both residents and aquatic life.

In addition, a property at No. 28 Amodu Street, Itire, Surulere, was shut down after complaints from residents about the continuous release of raw sewage into a neighboring compound and public drainage systems. The LSWMO labeled this as a significant environmental and health hazard.

Another property affected was on Oladipo Dumoye Street, Mashy Hill Estate, Ado Road, Ajah, in Eti-Osa Local Government Area. It was sealed for discharging untreated wastewater into public drains, leading to pollution and blockages.

Vintage Heights Estate on Ojulari Street, Elegushi, Lekki, Eti-Osa, also faced sealing for similar violations, accused of pumping untreated sewage into public drains and the surrounding area, contributing to offensive smells and drainage clogging.

The Lagos State Government has reiterated the importance of proper wastewater management practices among residents, estate managers, and property owners. They warned that violators of environmental regulations would face sanctions, including possible prosecution under the law.

The Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Kingsley Uchegbu, a reporter with Independent Television and Radio who was assigned to the Government House. The governor has pledged the state government’s support to the bereaved family.

According to reports, Kingsley Uchegbu passed away on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, after a short illness in Benin City.

Governor Okpebholo, represented by a delegation led by his Chief of Staff, Hon. Yakubu Musa, visited the widow, Mrs. Chineyeamara Uchegbu, at her home in Benin City to offer condolences. The delegation assured the family that the government would provide assistance following the loss of their breadwinner.

Speaking through the Commissioner for Information, Prince Kassim Afegbua, who was also part of the delegation, the governor described the late journalist as a dedicated and committed professional who served with diligence.

“Madam, the governor sent us here. We promise you will not face this alone. We will stand with you and help in any way we can to bring relief to you and your children. It is comforting that no one among us can say a bad word about Kingsley, as he was a loyal friend, devoted, humble, and led a simple life. Please remain strong for your children, as they are the ones who will carry on his legacy,” Afegbua stated.

Dr. Magnus Oshiogwe, a church elder at Winners Chapel, speaking on behalf of the family, thanked the government’s representatives for their timely visit to the widow, noting that it showed great respect for the deceased. “We are expecting more close family members shortly. Whatever support the government can provide will go a long way in easing their burden,” he added.

Until his death, Kingsley Uchegbu was a staff of Independent Television and Radio, seconded to the Government House Press Corps. He is survived by his wife, children, and an elderly mother.

The delegation also included the Commissioner for Special Duties, Hon. Ken Ihensenken; Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Prince Kassim Afegbua; Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Dr. Patrick Ebojele; and Special Adviser to the Governor on Electronic Media, Paul Ezenwa, along with members of the Government House Press Corps.

The Lagos State Government, through its Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education in collaboration with the Lagos State Examinations Board, has officially announced the schedule and protocols for the 2026 Public Service Examinations. This announcement follows a prior directive from the Head of Service identified as Circular Reference Number CIR/HOS/’26/005, which was issued on January 21, 2026.

The examinations are slated to take place from Tuesday, May 12, through Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at the Lagos State Public Service Staff Development Centre (PSSDC) located in Magodo, Lagos. The lineup includes the Compulsory Examination for all cadres within the State Public Service, the Combined Confirmation/Promotion Examination for Clerical Officers II (CO II) and Clerical Assistants (CA), as well as the External Secretarial Examination.

Candidates are required to print their examination slips starting Tuesday, May 5, 2026, via the official portal using their registration credentials. The slip will provide critical details, including the specific date and time assigned to each candidate.

According to the statement, all candidates must present valid identification at the test center. Acceptable forms of ID include Staff Identity Cards, National Identification Number (NIN) slips, and Lagos State Residents Registration Agency (LASRRA) cards. Additionally, candidates must bring printed copies of their examination slips and strictly adhere to their allocated date and time.

The board has emphasized that the exams will be conducted using a Computer-Based Test (CBT) format, advising candidates to familiarize themselves with basic computer skills beforehand. Furthermore, a formal dress code is mandatory, as inappropriate attire will not be permitted at the examination venue.

The Lagos State Examinations Board urges all candidates to fully comply with these guidelines to facilitate a smooth and orderly examination process.

The lawmaker representing Umuahia North Constituency in the Abia State House of Assembly, Anderson Akaliro, has raised an alarm over the massive destruction of farmlands in the Umuagu Autonomous Community, located in Umuahia North Local Government Area. According to him, the devastation is being caused by cattle belonging to suspected herdsmen.

Presenting the issue as a matter of urgent public importance during a plenary session, Akaliro expressed deep concern that such destruction is occurring despite the existence of the 2018 anti-open grazing law enacted by the state. He emphasized that the situation could escalate into a serious crisis if left unaddressed.

The lawmaker called on the Abia State House of Assembly to step in swiftly and take necessary measures to prevent further damage and potential conflict between farmers and herders.

In response, the Assembly referred the matter to its joint committee on security and agriculture for immediate legislative action, signaling the gravity of the issue.

In a related development, the Assembly also considered H.A.M. 50, a motion urging the Abia State Government to take over the Erei Palm Plantation Farm Settlement in Okon Aku, Ohafia South. Kalu Mba Nwoke, the representative for Ohafia South, argued that government takeover of the plantation is essential to restore lasting peace and avert further bloodshed in the community.

The Nigerian military has reported that its forces from the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, successfully thwarted an assault by ISWAP militants on the Forward Operating Base in Maiduguri early on May 7, 2026. The attack occurred under cover of darkness, with the terrorists attempting to breach the base’s perimeter.

According to a statement from Lieutenant Colonel, Media Information Officer for Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI, the insurgents managed to penetrate a small section temporarily, but troops responded with gallantry and decisively crushed the assault, inflicting heavy casualties. The Army noted that subsequent sweeps of the area revealed extensive blood trails, drag marks, and recovered bodies of terrorists, underscoring the severe losses suffered by the attackers.

Weapons recovered from the fleeing militants included PKT automatic anti-aircraft guns, AK-47 rifles, and various magazines. The statement further noted that two soldiers made the ultimate sacrifice during the engagement, while an officer and other wounded personnel are in stable condition and receiving medical care. Some equipment and temporary structures were damaged by fire in the intense fighting.

The military continues exploitation operations to solidify the gains from the encounter, with further battle damage assessments ongoing. The statement emphasized that the failed attack highlights the resolve of Operation HADIN KAI troops to deny terrorists any freedom of action across the theater. The high command commended the troops for their outstanding performance and urged them to maintain the operational tempo.

The Accord Party’s national leadership has declared it will not put forward a governorship candidate in Abia State for the 2027 election. Instead, the party is throwing its weight behind Governor Alex Otti’s re-election bid.

Professor Christopher Imumolen, the party’s National Chairman, and National Secretary Mukhtar Abdullah Djungo made the announcement during a visit to Governor Otti at his residence in Nvosi, Isialangwa South LGA on Wednesday. They instructed all party members and executives in the state to rally behind the Labour Party candidate.

Professor Imumolen highlighted that Governor Otti’s impressive performance in office motivated the party to endorse him. He stressed that opposition parties should go beyond just criticizing and should recognize and support good governance when they see it.

National Secretary Djungo reiterated the decision, saying, “Our party will not field any governorship candidate in Abia. The National Working Committee has directed the state executive to collaborate with the Labour Party and work for the welfare of Abia residents. Let the positive work continue.”

In his response, Governor Otti expressed gratitude to the Accord Party leaders for their support. He emphasized that politics should focus on the well-being and security of the people. “The entire purpose of politics is the welfare and safety of our citizens,” Otti remarked, pledging to work with the party going forward.

Jolly Nyame, a former governor of Taraba State and long-time member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has officially stepped down from the party. He cited persistent marginalisation and injustice towards his people as the primary reasons for his departure.

Nyame made the announcement while addressing his support group after a Federal High Court ruling in Jalingo, as seen in a widely circulated social media video. According to him, the decision followed extensive consultations with supporters and key stakeholders from Zing Local Government Area. He stated that his move is aimed at finding a new political platform where he can effectively serve his constituents.

In his statement, the former governor expressed frustration that his years of loyalty and contributions to the APC have not resulted in fair treatment for himself or the Yorro community. He posed a rhetorical question, asking if the party would not honour him, the Dabon Yarro and leader of the Yorro community worldwide, then who else from his people would they honour?

Nyame further alleged that individuals from his zone have faced prolonged political exclusion and lack of adequate representation in state affairs. He noted that the mounting pressure from his people, who feel their voices have been suppressed for too long, is pushing him towards contesting an elective office in the 2027 general elections, despite his advanced age.

He warned that remaining silent over the perceived injustice would only worsen the situation. Nyame called on his supporters to stand united with him in the struggle to improve the fortunes of the community, as he aligns with like-minded individuals committed to the area’s development.

The Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) in Kebbi State has called on all political parties to rigorously follow the guidelines set by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as they prepare for primaries. This appeal applies to parties that have already held congresses and those yet to conduct theirs.

Faruku Garba, NATO, the chairman of IPAC in Kebbi, issued a statement on Wednesday emphasizing the importance of transparent and credible congresses for strengthening internal democracy. He argued that well-conducted congresses are a critical test for fair primaries and essential for producing capable leaders.

Garba noted that fair congresses are fundamental to electing good leaders and that credible processes are vital tools for parties to achieve electoral success. He cautioned that poorly managed congresses often lead to legal disputes, which can harm parties’ electoral prospects and create unnecessary tensions within the democratic system.

The IPAC chairman urged all political parties in Kebbi and across Nigeria to ensure their internal activities comply strictly with INEC laws and regulations. He warned that parties failing to adhere to constitutional and INEC rules risk being delisted. Garba concluded by stating that IPAC is closely monitoring congress proceedings and advising parties to avoid political rancor by ensuring seamless processes.