Category: News

The Coalition of Registered Political Parties (CRPP) has leveled accusations against Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo, alleging that the awarding of contracts for two flyover bridges in Benin City violated procurement laws. The group has vowed to petition the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over the matter.

In a communiqué released after its second general meeting on May 2, 2026, in Benin City, the CRPP expressed concerns about the lack of financial transparency and accountability in the contract awards. The first flyover at Ramat Park, Ikpoba Hill, was launched on November 19, 2024, with an 18-month completion timeline, while the second at Adesuwa Junction, Sapele Road, was started on October 15, 2025. Both projects were awarded to China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) Nigeria Limited.

The CRPP, citing the Freedom of Information Act (FOI), has demanded that the Edo State Government disclose the contract sums, the newspapers where bids were advertised, the list of bidding companies aside from CCECC, and the role of First Bank in the projects. The communiqué, signed by National Chairman Dr. Samson Isibor, also criticized Governor Okpebholo for inviting media personalities and a musician to inspect the projects at taxpayers’ expense.

The group described the governor’s claims of being the best-performing Edo governor as propaganda, asserting that his administration is the least effective since the state’s creation. They also dismissed the government’s assertion of tolerance for opposition, citing instances where a commissioner allegedly abused and stigmatized them.

Despite acknowledging the flyover projects as positive developments, the CRPP insisted that Edo citizens have the right to know how contracts are awarded. They pledged to invite the EFCC to scrutinize the contracts, which they described as shrouded in secrecy.

The Nigerian Senate has taken a decisive step to address the escalating xenophobic violence against its citizens in South Africa by forming a joint ad hoc committee with the House of Representatives. This committee, led by the National Assembly leadership, is tasked with conducting a diplomatic mission to South Africa to find lasting solutions to the recurring attacks.

Lawmakers revealed that the delegation will meet directly with the South African Parliament to officially express Nigeria’s concerns over the mistreatment of its nationals. The Senate also plans to reach out to the Speaker of the South African Parliament, while the Minister of Foreign Affairs will update legislators on diplomatic efforts.

The resolution emerged from a motion on urgent national importance sponsored by Senator Bassey, which highlighted the worsening xenophobic persecution of Nigerians in South Africa and Ghana. The motion called for immediate national, diplomatic, and humanitarian action to protect the dignity and safety of Nigerian citizens.

During debates, senators voiced alarm over the rising violence, psychological trauma, and discrimination faced by Nigerians abroad. One lawmaker noted that the issue goes beyond physical attacks, encompassing a system of profiling and dehumanization.

The Senate also revisited the 2019 bilateral agreements between Nigeria and South Africa, following a motion by Senator Simon Lalong, and urged their full implementation to prevent further escalation. A proposal to revoke operational licenses of South African firms like MTN and DStv, made by Senator Adams Oshiomhole, was dismissed on procedural grounds.

The Senate President emphasized diplomacy over economic retaliation, stating that while the attacks are deeply concerning, the response should prioritize diplomatic engagement. He assured that the matter would be treated urgently.

A brief disagreement arose when Senator Aliero proposed a closed-door debate, but Senator Ningi and others opposed, insisting on transparency. The session concluded with a minute of silence for Nigerians killed in the attacks.

In response to an assault on one of their own, physicians at the Delta State University Teaching Hospital (DELSUTH) in Oghara have initiated an indefinite work stoppage. The action stems from an incident involving Dr. Adja Harrison, the immediate past president of the hospital’s chapter of the Association of Resident Doctors (ARD).

Witnesses say Dr. Harrison was slapped and then set upon by a group during a tense blockade of the hospital’s access roads. The doctor had earlier parked his vehicle inside the hospital grounds and escorted his children through a pedestrian exit to school. Upon returning, he observed the scene from a distance and reportedly made a calm request that a motorcyclist not headed to the hospital be allowed to pass. This plea allegedly sparked hostility, leading to the physical attack before bystanders intervened.

Dr. Harrison was subsequently rescued and taken to a safe location. Medical examination later revealed injuries to his right ear, including bleeding and signs consistent with trauma to the eardrum caused by blunt force. Following an emergency congress, the ARD declared a total, indefinite, and comprehensive strike encompassing all categories of doctors.

The doctors’ union is demanding a written apology from the host community, enhanced security measures, guarantees against future assaults, full medical care and compensation for the victim, as well as the identification and prosecution of those responsible. The ARD emphasized that the strike will persist until all these conditions are satisfied.

In a press statement, the ARD strongly condemned what it described as an unprovoked attack on Dr. Harrison, noting that it reflects a broader pattern of insecurity faced by healthcare workers in the area. The union pointed to repeated instances of intimidation and threats that have forced many doctors to reside in nearby towns such as Sapele, Warri, and Benin City, highlighting the urgent need for a safer working environment.

The management of Yola Electricity Distribution Company (YEDC) has strongly condemned a recent violent incident in Biu Local Government Area, Borno State, where staff were physically assaulted and the company’s office was invaded.

In a statement released by the Communications Officer, Blessing Tunoh, the company emphasized that such attacks on employees performing their lawful duties are unacceptable and will not be tolerated. The incident involved suspected criminals forcefully entering the Biu office, assaulting staff, vandalizing property, and setting company vehicles on fire.

YEDC also reported that several operational assets were stolen during the raid, including service cables, meters, computers, refrigerators, television sets, and other office equipment. The company noted that these actions severely disrupt service delivery and pose significant risks to electrical infrastructure and personnel safety. As a result, operations in Biu have been temporarily suspended.

Citing Section 220(1) of the Electricity Act 2023, YEDC highlighted that assaulting utility workers and vandalizing power infrastructure are criminal offenses. The company urged customers to channel their complaints through established and lawful means, warning that violence could lead to service withdrawal and legal action against perpetrators.

YEDC reaffirmed its dedication to providing safe, reliable, and efficient electricity services and called on all stakeholders to help protect critical power infrastructure and personnel. The safety and well-being of its employees remain the company’s top priority.

Prince Allwell Nwandu, an Aba native based in Houston, Texas, has announced that the upcoming Umu Aba Reunion Worldwide Convention, set for July 24–25, 2026, is designed to be a transformative event for the Aba community worldwide. He emphasized that the gathering will not only bring people together but also foster unity and initiate honest discussions on the collective development of Aba and Abia State.

Nwandu, a key organizer, revealed that the convention will feature lectures, workshops, and professional sessions covering medical, economic, political, and social topics. He stated that the event goes beyond a simple reunion, creating a platform for generating ideas, solutions, and shared responsibility. In an era where progress relies heavily on collaboration and diaspora engagement, such a gathering is crucial. It provides an opportunity for Aba indigenes across the globe to reconnect with their roots in a practical, not just emotional, manner, while exploring investment opportunities, sharing knowledge, and supporting long-term community growth.

Nwandu highlighted that Aba has always been a hub of enterprise and creativity, and this spirit must be continually strengthened through sustained engagement. He stressed that no community can advance without the active involvement of its people. While the government can provide structure and direction, lasting development occurs when citizens take responsibility for creating the future they envision.

He acknowledged the efforts of Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, the governor of Abia State, noting that Otti’s leadership has restored a sense of direction and confidence in the state, particularly in governance, infrastructure, and economic renewal. This progress is gradually changing perceptions and making it easier for investors and diaspora indigenes to reconnect and contribute meaningfully. As a result, individuals like Nwandu have chosen to base their real estate, construction, and development companies in Aba, and are also launching educational initiatives to nurture children from early learning stages while equipping young people and adults with practical skills in crafts and healthcare.

The goal, according to Nwandu, is to build capacity that supports real life and sustainable development. The Umu Aba Reunion Worldwide Convention is therefore more than an event; it is a reminder that everyone has a role to play in shaping the future of Abia State through connection, investment, and commitment.

The Federal High Court in Kaduna has ruled that Bashir Mohammed Saidu, the former Chief of Staff to ex-Governor Nasir El-Rufai, and his co-accused, Ibrahim Murktar, must present their defence in a N155 million money laundering case brought by the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC).

Justice Rilwan Aikawa rejected the no-case submissions filed by the defendants, stating that the prosecution had established a prima facie case requiring their response. He emphasized that the evidence produced by the ICPC was sufficient to compel the accused to provide explanations.

Bashir Saidu, who also served as Kaduna State Commissioner of Finance, and Ibrahim Murktar face four counts linked to violations of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022. The ICPC alleges that Murktar, a cashier in the Ministry of Finance, withdrew N155 million in multiple cash sums from the state’s Exchange Gain Account.

According to the anti-graft agency, the funds were delivered in cash through a proxy for Saidu’s benefit, bypassing official financial channels. The transactions are suspected to be proceeds of unlawful activities. During the trial, which began after the defendants’ arraignment on January 21, 2025, the prosecution presented two witnesses and multiple exhibits before closing its case.

The defendants argued that the evidence was insufficient to warrant a defence, but the court disagreed. The next hearing is set for June 22, 2026, when the defendants will begin presenting their case.

The ICPC has reaffirmed its commitment to pursuing corruption cases to their conclusion, aiming to promote transparency and accountability in public service.

In a recent interview published on X Monday, Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, who served as the Labour Party’s vice-presidential candidate alongside Peter Obi in the 2023 elections, openly expressed his discontent with Obi’s recent political maneuvers. Baba-Ahmed advised Obi to withdraw from the 2027 presidential race if he lacks the willingness to engage in political combat.

Baba-Ahmed criticized Obi’s departure from the Labour Party, suggesting that he should have remained to tackle internal challenges within the opposition. He argued that fleeing from party issues is not a sign of leadership, especially when the nation itself faces turmoil. “If you run from a fight within your party, what will you do when the country is in crisis?” Baba-Ahmed questioned.

The former running mate also cast doubt on the viability of a potential alliance between Peter Obi and former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso, stating that northern voters may not support such a ticket. He remarked, “The north will not rally behind this merge as many assume.”

Baba-Ahmed’s comments come after reports that Obi and Kwankwaso have moved to the Nigerian Democratic Congress from the African Democratic Congress. It was previously reported that Obi had left the Labour Party, where he contested the 2023 election with Baba-Ahmed.

In his concluding remarks, Baba-Ahmed did not hold back: “My former leader (Peter Obi) claims he walks away from quarrels. But Nigeria is in a huge quarrel. Will he walk away from that too? If you are not prepared to fight, then stay in your house.”

The recent political alignment between Peter Obi and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, which saw them join the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has sparked a wide range of reactions across Northern Nigeria. While some view it as a promising coalition that could challenge the ruling APC, others remain skeptical about its potential to secure broad support in the region.

On Sunday, both leaders officially received their membership cards from NDC national chairman Cleopas Moses Zuwoghe at the party’s secretariat in Abuja. Kwankwaso explained that their decision came after extensive consultations, revealing a strong ideological match with the NDC. Obi emphasized the party’s commitment to rebuilding Nigeria and restoring public trust in governance, urging members to avoid legal disputes that could derail their efforts.

The Kwankwasiyya movement, through its spokesperson Habeeb Saleh Mohammed, stated that the NDC represents a safer platform for the 2027 elections, free from the internal crises and legal battles plaguing their former party, the ADC. Mohammed noted that the ADC’s multiple court cases and threats of deregistration made it an unstable choice. He also highlighted the potential of an Obi-Kwankwaso ticket to promote national unity, as it would balance regional interests and focus on competence rather than ethnicity.

However, public affairs analyst Mahdi Shehu expressed caution, warning that the frequent party changes by Obi and Kwankwaso could be seen as overconfidence. He argued that the political landscape has shifted since 2023, and that without genuine unity among opposition leaders, their efforts might fail. Shehu suggested that one faction could even strike a deal with the APC, leaving Obi and Kwankwaso politically isolated.

Northern residents offered mixed views. Lukman Shuaibu from Kano declared unwavering support for Kwankwaso, citing his grassroots appeal. Naziru Dalhatu praised the joint ticket as a symbol of national unity and predicted it would defeat the current government given widespread dissatisfaction. Conversely, Muhammad Rabiu Musa from Jigawa questioned the alliance’s credibility, arguing it lacks a clear policy blueprint and is driven by personal ambition rather than public interest. He also noted that religious and ethnic factors in the core north could hinder an Igbo presidency.

As the 2027 elections approach, the success of the Obi-Kwankwaso coalition in the north remains uncertain. The Kwankwasiyya movement believes the APC will be too preoccupied with its own internal processes to disrupt the NDC, but critics remain unconvinced. The coming months will reveal whether this alliance can overcome regional divisions and present a viable alternative to the ruling party.

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has dismissed suggestions that Peter Obi and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso left the party on impulse, arguing instead that their departure was carefully orchestrated. Bolaji Abdullahi, the party’s spokesperson, made this assertion during an appearance on Arise News Prime Time, emphasizing that the ADC remains a well-structured organization with a clear vision.

Abdullahi criticized certain politicians for leveraging the party to advance personal agendas rather than collective goals. He stated that despite relentless attacks from the government, the ADC has stood firm, fighting back and staying committed to its mission of rescuing Nigerians from poor governance.

He questioned Obi’s sudden change of heart, referencing a previous remark by the former presidential candidate. At a coalition meeting, Obi had warned that fielding two candidates against Bola Ahmed Tinubu would hand him victory in 2027. Abdullahi wondered what had altered Obi’s perspective since then.

The spokesperson rejected claims that legal battles forced the duo out, describing the party’s court issues as minor and insufficient to justify such a drastic step. He highlighted that Obi was given unprecedented privileges within the ADC, including the authority to appoint the National Organising Secretary—a pivotal role overseeing congresses and elections.

According to Abdullahi, Obi never voiced any grievances about unfair treatment while he was a member. He noted that Obi took nearly a year to join the party, attended coalition meetings consistently, and only agreed to join after the ticket was zoned. The spokesperson compared the exit to a spouse manufacturing excuses to leave a marriage, saying, “When a woman wants to leave a marriage, she gives all kinds of reasons, including being suffocated by too much love.”

Abdullahi further alleged that the move was premeditated, pointing to a meeting in Kano involving Obi, Kwankwaso, and Seriake Dickson. After that meeting, he contacted Dickson to inquire about developments. Kwankwaso had been considering joining the ADC, but things changed abruptly, raising suspicions about efforts to split the opposition and benefit the ruling party.

Ambassador Olufemi Oguntoyinbo, a prominent figure within the Oyo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party, has issued a strong call to action for the newly formed National Caretaker Committee. He specifically addressed Chairman Tanimu Turaki, National Secretary Taofeek Arapaja, and other committee members, urging them to prioritize alleviating the severe difficulties faced by Nigerians under the current administration.

In a statement released in Ibadan, Oguntoyinbo emphasized that the committee must build upon the newfound unity within the party following the recent Supreme Court ruling. He stressed that the PDP is the only truly national party capable of challenging the ruling All Progressives Congress.

Oguntoyinbo reminded the caretaker leadership that their task is monumental and requires divine guidance. He expressed confidence that with concerted effort, the party can secure victory in the upcoming elections. “We must do everything possible to ensure our party triumphs next year,” he stated.

Highlighting the plight of millions of citizens, Oguntoyinbo declared, “PDP is the sole national party in this country, and we cannot afford to let down the countless Nigerians who depend on us to free them from the unprecedented suffering inflicted by the APC.” He called on the committee to act swiftly and decisively to restore hope and prosperity.