Category: News

Babachir Lawal, a former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, has stirred controversy by asserting that an Atiku Abubakar-led administration would fundamentally represent Fulani dominance. In a Facebook post over the weekend, Lawal, who recently parted ways with the African Democratic Congress due to alleged primary irregularities, argued that his warnings about Atiku’s potential presidency have triggered a wave of insults and threats from Fulani communities across Nigeria.

Lawal drew a parallel between Atiku’s candidacy and President Bola Tinubu’s tenure, noting that Tinubu’s administration is widely perceived as a Yoruba presidency—a label that many Yoruba people embrace. He suggested that Atiku’s presidency would carry a similar ethnic connotation, though he criticized the aggressive backlash he has faced for highlighting this viewpoint.

“Pointing out the hazards of an Atiku presidency for the nation does not equate to disrespecting the entire Fulani race,” Lawal wrote. “If the Fulani community chooses to interpret my remarks as an insult, that is their prerogative. We live in a free society.” His comments have ignited debate about ethnicity and leadership in Nigeria, drawing both support and condemnation.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Ekiti State, Oluwole Oluyede, has launched a scathing attack on the All Progressives Congress (APC), labeling its primary election as the most poorly conducted in democratic history. Speaking on Arise Television on Saturday, Oluyede described the APC as deeply fractured and incapable of providing effective governance.

According to Oluyede, the primary process exposed the internal chaos within the APC, further weakening the party’s standing in the state. He argued that the PDP remains a formidable force despite the APC’s attempts to dismiss its relevance. ‘The APC mistakenly believed we were extinct, but we have proven our existence and unity,’ he stated.

Oluyede also criticized the performance of the current APC administration under Governor Biodun Oyebanji, calling it the worst in Ekiti’s history. He contrasted it with past PDP governments, which he claimed were more effective. ‘People are fed up with an administration that has accomplished nothing meaningful. Even without a challenger, Governor Oyebanji would lose to himself,’ Oluyede asserted.

Public commentator Mahdi Shehu has voiced alarm over what he perceives as escalating political desperation in Nigeria following the conclusion of party primaries. In a Saturday post on X, Shehu criticized political parties for a lack of transparency and rising tensions among members.

Despite the completion of primaries, many parties have yet to release their final candidate lists, a delay Shehu finds dubious. “All parties’ primary elections are over, yet the final lists are being withheld and treated as if they are in a casino room,” he remarked.

He noted that the disputes and rejections trailing the primaries indicate that many politicians still struggle with democratic processes even after 25 years of civilian rule. “Even after 25 uninterrupted years of democratic governance, politicians in Nigeria are still learning the ropes,” he added.

Shehu also highlighted what he termed extreme power hunger, observing that some politicians are willing to switch parties or form unlikely alliances just to secure tickets. “Extreme desperation for power at all cost is increasing, judging by the behaviour of party members after losing tickets,” he said.

He further pointed out that politicians who once criticized certain parties are now flocking to those same platforms. “Some characters are moving from one political party to another looking for cheap tickets, including parties they once demonised,” he stated. Former rivals are now forming convenience-based alliances—strange bedfellows driven by a desire for power.

Shehu warned that the real impact of these developments will become clearer as the election period progresses. “The realities will manifest before, during and after the general elections,” he said. “Democracy is in visible danger with the way politicians are displaying dangerous desperation.” He concluded that while the current situation may seem uncertain, time will reveal its full effect on Nigeria’s political landscape.

The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has called on hospitals, medical waste handlers, transporters, and treatment facilities across Lagos State to enhance their preparedness against the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) following recent outbreaks in East Africa.

In a statement released through the Lagos State Government, the agency emphasized the need for strict adherence to infection prevention protocols and proper medical waste management. Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, LAWMA’s Managing Director and CEO, highlighted that improper handling of medical waste could facilitate the spread of infectious diseases.

Dr. Gbadegesin clarified that no Ebola case has been confirmed in Lagos or anywhere in Nigeria, noting that the advisory is strictly precautionary. He urged health facilities and waste operators to remain vigilant and follow established safety guidelines without exception.

“Effective medical waste management is crucial to curbing disease transmission and safeguarding healthcare workers, waste handlers, patients, and the general public,” he stated.

LAWMA instructed health institutions to reinforce infection control measures, including regular handwashing, correct use of personal protective equipment, safe sample handling, environmental cleaning, and proper segregation of infectious waste at the point of generation.

The authority also reminded waste handlers and transporters to adhere to approved procedures for collecting, moving, treating, and disposing of infectious materials, emphasizing consistent use of protective gear during operations.

Dr. Gbadegesin assured that LAWMA would continue to support preparedness through monitoring, enforcement, and stakeholder engagement. He called on hospitals to stay alert, review their infection prevention protocols when necessary, and report any suspected public health issues through proper channels.

He reiterated that Lagos remains on high alert, with surveillance, preparedness, and response systems active to protect public health. LAWMA will sustain training, awareness campaigns, and compliance programs to ensure medical waste management systems are safe, efficient, and ready to address emerging health threats.

The National Council of Muslim Youth Organisations, NACOMYO, has issued a strong condemnation against individuals attempting to justify terrorism, kidnapping, and murder under the guise of Sharia law. The group emphasized that such acts are considered grave sins in Islam and are fundamentally opposed to the true principles of Sharia.

Dawood Afolabi, the Oyo State Coordinator of NACOMYO, released a statement on Saturday addressing the recent claims by kidnappers who demanded the implementation of Sharia law as a condition for freeing abducted students and teachers in Oyo State. He described these demands as deceptive and criminal, noting that they grossly misrepresent the core values of Islam.

The incident, which occurred last month, involved the abduction of 39 students and seven teachers from communities in Oriire Local Government Area. Following this, rumors circulated that the kidnappers were seeking Sharia implementation to secure the release of the hostages.

Afolabi stressed that those responsible for these heinous acts have no religious, moral, or legal standing to speak for Islam or Nigerian Muslims. He reiterated that terrorism, kidnapping, murder, and intimidation of innocent civilians are serious offenses in Islam and stand in direct opposition to the objectives of Sharia law.

Citing Islamic teachings, Afolabi quoted the Holy Qur’an, which teaches that killing an innocent person is akin to killing all of humanity, while saving a life is like saving all of humanity. He pointed out that under Islamic jurisprudence, crimes such as armed robbery, terrorism, kidnapping, and spreading fear are among the most severe offenses because they threaten public safety and social order. These crimes attract harsh penalties under established legal processes aimed at protecting society and ensuring justice.

NACOMYO also called on government authorities to enhance intelligence gathering and bolster security around educational institutions. They urged security agencies to arrest and prosecute perpetrators and their collaborators without delay. Additionally, Afolabi appealed to religious leaders, traditional rulers, civil society groups, and the media to promote peaceful coexistence and interfaith harmony, and to resist attempts by criminals to exploit religion for destructive purposes.

The movement known as Relax, Tinubu is Fixing Nigeria (RTIFN) has intensified efforts to rally support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s second term. A high-level delegation, headed by veteran Nollywood actor Zack Orji, who serves as Deputy Director General of the organization, visited Cross River State to launch a series of political and humanitarian activities.

During the visit, the group formally named Governor Bassey Otu as the National Patron of RTIFN. The delegation presented the appointment letter at the Government House, with the National Secretary, Arc. Arome Felix, reading the document. He emphasized that the entire RTIFN structure across the country is fully prepared to back Governor Otu’s re-election bid in 2027.

Arc. Felix praised Governor Otu’s grassroots leadership, noting that the visible infrastructure improvements in Calabar reflect his visionary approach. Governor Otu, in response, expressed gratitude and humorously claimed he had already been a member of RTIFN before the official conferment. He described himself as a devoted follower of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which he said is steering Nigeria in the right direction. The Governor pledged full support to ensure the organization operates at maximum capacity in the state and beyond.

The delegation was also welcomed by Deputy Governor Peter Agbe Odey, who commended their dedication to national unity and development. Earlier, the team was received at Margaret Ekpo International Airport by the Cross River State Coordinator, Ms. Anjor Obande. She announced that the state chapter has already begun an aggressive nationwide registration drive and is fully mobilized to deliver massive support for President Tinubu.

Key activities planned during this visit include the official inauguration of the Cross River State RTIFN executive committee, a large solidarity rally to sensitize citizens on the President’s economic and structural reforms, and a humanitarian medical outreach offering free healthcare services to vulnerable communities. The event was attended by the National Women Leader, the South-South Regional Coordinator, coordinators from Kogi, Akwa Ibom, and other states, as well as directors of town hall and special duties, entertainment, contact and mobilization, strategy, implementation and monitoring, and protocol, along with other key stakeholders.

This development marks a significant step in building momentum for President Tinubu’s re-election, combining political mobilization with community service.

Troops engaged in Operation Fansan Yamma have substantially affected criminal activity in the mountainous border region near Zamfara State. During an intense confrontation, many bandits were killed and their operational bases dismantled around Dangulbi and Kurawa villages within Tureta Local Government Area of Sokoto State.

Security operatives launched the offensive on June 4, coordinating with other law enforcement agencies and local vigilantes. The assault resulted in the death of several criminals, including prominent leaders, while others fled with injuries into adjacent forests.

Items recovered in the raid included firearms and motorcycles. A source from the security sector praised the swift reaction and professionalism of the 8 Division fighters under Operation Fansan Yamma, noting they averted what could have been a major tragedy.

Although the military has yet to release an official statement, the source confirmed that key bandit hideouts and their activities have been severely disrupted as a result of the operation.

Retired Colonel Ahmad Usman, serving as Special Adviser on Security to Governor Ahmad Aliyu, along with community members, expressed appreciation for the Nigerian Army’s persistent efforts and achievements in combating banditry within the state. Security authorities have vowed to maintain the current momentum to keep up pressure on criminal elements still active in the region.

Captain Daniel Beecroft, the Executive Officer of Nigerian Navy Ship Delta, has credited the base’s recent accomplishments to the strategic foresight and commitment of its Commander, Commodore Shehu Mohammed Tasiu. Speaking at an officers’ ceremonial dinner in Warri, Delta State, as part of the Nigerian Navy’s 70th anniversary, Beecroft highlighted Tasiu’s transformational leadership.

Beecroft noted that under Tasiu’s guidance, NNS DELTA has seen significant improvements in personnel welfare, infrastructure, and community relations. He specifically praised the commander for organizing the first ceremonial dinner in the base’s history and for driving numerous development projects. Tasiu’s tenure has been marked by a focus on both operational effectiveness and social impact.

As part of the anniversary celebrations, the base undertook several humanitarian initiatives. At Ogiame Primary School, over 1,200 notebooks, textbooks, and school bags were distributed to pupils. A medical outreach in Ubeji Community provided free consultations, lab tests, eye exams, and dental care to more than 1,000 residents. Widows of fallen personnel also received support, and sporting events among youths and security agencies promoted unity.

Infrastructure projects commissioned include a modern transit accommodation and an executive officer’s residence, sponsored by Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited. Beecroft thanked the Delta State Government for its ongoing support, particularly the foreshore wall project that protects the base’s infrastructure. He also acknowledged the contributions of former Chief of Naval Staff Vice Admiral Dan Preston Omatsola (Rtd) and the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Kingsley Emu.

Commodore Tasiu, in his address, emphasized the importance of education and community engagement. He stated that investing in children through educational outreach is an investment in Nigeria’s future. He also highlighted the medical outreach and sporting competitions as ways to strengthen civil-military relations. Tasiu reaffirmed NNS DELTA’s commitment to securing Nigeria’s waterways and fostering development in host communities.

Other speakers at the event included retired Vice Admiral Omatsola, who described the armed forces as the keystone of Nigeria’s unity, and retired Commodore Omatseye Nesiama, who praised the Navy’s tradition of excellence. Brigadier General Efe Dafioghor emphasized the need for inter-agency collaboration, while the Commissioner of Police in Delta State, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, commended the Navy’s partnership with the police in combating crime.

The ceremony marked the culmination of weeks of activities celebrating the Nigerian Navy’s seven decades of service to the nation.

Another group of pilgrims from Ogun State has touched down at the Gateway International Airport in Iperu, marking the completion of their Hajj journey. The flight, operated by Flynas Airlines, brought back 345 worshippers from Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, with a smooth landing on Friday at 5:12 p.m.

This arrival follows the first batch, which had returned just a day earlier at 10 p.m., also with 345 pilgrims. Alhaji Shamsideen Apelogun, the Amirul Hajj for the 2026 pilgrimage, officially received the second contingent. He highlighted the significance of utilizing the state’s international airport for direct flights, calling it a historic milestone for Ogun.

Apelogun expressed personal pride in being part of the first group to experience international arrivals at the new facility. He extended gratitude to Governor Dapo Abiodun for his continuous support and oversight during the entire pilgrimage. The governor, according to Apelogun, remained actively involved, frequently checking on the pilgrims’ welfare throughout their stay in Medina and Makkah.

The conduct of Ogun pilgrims was also praised. Apelogun noted their exemplary behavior, which earned the state positive recognition among Hajj officials. The National Hajj Commission of Nigeria had earlier ranked Ogun pilgrims among the best-behaved contingents during this year’s rites.

Encouraging the returning worshippers, Apelogun urged them to maintain the virtues of patience, discipline, and devotion they cultivated during the sacred journey. He thanked Allah for ensuring their safety and commended the Ogun State Muslim Pilgrims Welfare Board for its effective coordination.

In a recent statement, Bashir Ahmad, a former media aide to ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, argued that former President Goodluck Jonathan should not bear the full weight of blame for the Boko Haram insurgency during his tenure. Ahmad emphasized that ensuring national security is not the exclusive responsibility of any single administration.

According to Ahmad, securing Nigeria demands a collective effort that goes beyond governmental action. He stressed that community involvement is crucial, with citizens, traditional rulers, religious bodies, and individuals all playing essential roles in safeguarding the nation.

Taking to social media platform X, Ahmad shared his perspective: “Even at the peak of the Boko Haram crisis, I refrained from attributing all fault to President Jonathan’s government. My conviction has long been that community security cannot solely depend on the government. Security is a shared obligation, requiring each citizen’s active engagement and dedication.”

He elaborated that while governments provide leadership and allocate resources, the broader community must also contribute. Traditional institutions, religious leaders, and ordinary citizens all have significant parts to play in maintaining peace and order.

Ahmad called on Nigerians to assist security agencies by offering credible intelligence and denying safe spaces to criminals. “We must back our security forces with reliable information and refuse to harbor lawbreakers. Only through a collective effort and a mutual sense of duty can we achieve lasting peace and ensure a safer future for our communities and our country,” he concluded.