Category: News

During the 2026 Ekiti State governorship election, a dramatic incident unfolded as voters in Iyin-Ekiti forcefully drove away operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Saturday. The anti-graft agency had deployed its personnel to a polling unit with the intention of monitoring and cracking down on suspected vote-buying activities.

The presence of EFCC officers sparked anger among voters, who questioned their deployment and demanded their immediate exit. The situation escalated, leading to the operatives being chased away, allowing the voting process to continue without further interruption.

This event took place amid widespread allegations of massive vote buying across various parts of Ekiti State during the governorship race. Observers noted that the incident highlights tensions around electoral integrity and the enforcement of anti-corruption measures in the region.

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has addressed the delay in officially presenting former Transportation Minister Rotimi Amaechi as the running mate to its presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar. According to the party, the postponement stems from Atiku’s ongoing business travel abroad.

Abdulrasheed Shehu, a media aide to Atiku, took to X (formerly Twitter) on Saturday to clarify the situation. He dismissed rumors suggesting internal strife within the ADC or Amaechi’s reluctance to accept the offer. Shehu stated that the pairing is finalized and that Amaechi will be unveiled shortly after Atiku returns from his trip.

The confirmation comes amid conflicting reports and initial skepticism following the ADC’s announcement of its presidential ticket for the 2027 election. Earlier, party officials had refrained from immediate confirmation, leading to speculation. Shehu urged the public to disregard what he termed as fake news, emphasizing that the ticket is settled and the unveiling is imminent.

The lawmaker representing Ekiti North Federal Constituency II, Kolawole David Akinlayo, has voiced strong confidence in the ruling party’s prospects during the ongoing governorship election in Ekiti State. He noted significant voter participation across his district and widespread support for Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s bid for a second term.

Akinlayo made these remarks while addressing the media after casting his ballot at Igogo Ward 2, Polling Unit 16, located in Ikosun-Ekiti, Moba Local Government Area. He emphasized that citizens turned out in force to back the incumbent governor, who is seeking re-election under the party’s banner.

The legislator attributed the impressive turnout to effective grassroots mobilization and intensive campaigning conducted by party officials in the lead-up to the election. He pointed out that extensive efforts were made across all three local government areas within his constituency to educate residents on the value of voting and to rally support for the governor’s re-election.

In a bid to ease economic strain and encourage voter participation, Akinlayo disclosed that he distributed food supplies to constituents in those local government areas on the eve of the election. He expressed belief that the people would reciprocate the party’s dedication by casting their votes for Oyebanji.

“Our party’s candidate is the sitting governor, who is vying for a second tenure, and the electorate is eager to re-elect him. We have campaigned vigorously, and yesterday we urged them to turn out early to support our candidate. I am confident they have done so and will continue to do so because they trust us and will vote for the governor,” Akinlayo stated.

The prominent rights activist and chieftain of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Aisha Yesufu, has stirred controversy with her latest remarks on electoral practices in Nigeria. During the weekend, she criticized the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for failing to address vote-buying and other electoral malpractices effectively.

Responding to reports of widespread vote-buying in the Ekiti State governorship election, Yesufu argued that the practice should be legalized. She took to X, formerly Twitter, to voice her frustration, stating that the current situation punishes only law-abiding citizens while offenders go free.

According to Yesufu, the EFCC appears to turn a blind eye during elections, allowing vote-buying to flourish. She proposed a radical shift: instead of candidates wasting resources on expensive campaigns, they could simply bargain for votes on election day. The highest spender would win, making the process more transparent and saving money. She described the current state of affairs as absurd and called for an end to the hypocrisy.

Meanwhile, the Ekiti governorship election has been marred by allegations of malpractice. Dare Bejide, the ADC governorship candidate, claimed that vote-buying and money-sharing occurred openly at his polling unit, with police and INEC officials seemingly unresponsive. These allegations have sparked further debate about the integrity of the electoral process.

In the early returns of the Ekiti State governorship election, Governor Biodun Oyebanji of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has established a commanding lead. The incumbent triumphed over Dare Bejide of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in his own polling unit, securing 140 votes against the latter’s 37.

Across the state, partial results indicate the APC holds a substantial advantage. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) trails in second, while the ADC occupies third place. According to data uploaded on the INEC IReV portal, the current tallies are as follows: APC – 78,979 votes; PDP – 10,736 votes; ADC – 2,964 votes.

A photograph accompanying this report shows Governor Oyebanji casting his ballot, a testament to his active participation in the democratic process.

In a dramatic turn of events during the Ekiti State governorship election, incumbent Governor Biodun Oyebanji of the All Progressives Congress (APC) secured a commanding win at a polling unit located in the hometown of former Governor Ayodele Fayose. The polling unit, designated PU 001 at St. David’s Primary School/Maternity Area in Afao-Ekiti, Irepodun/Ifelodun Local Government Area, delivered a decisive 448 votes for Oyebanji out of a total of 493 valid ballots cast.

The result deals a significant blow to the opposition, with the African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate, Dare Bejide, managing only 37 votes, while the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Wole Oluyede, received a mere four votes. The Accreditation figure stood at 538 out of 931 registered voters, according to the official INEC Form EC8A. Seven ballots were rejected during the process.

Observers note the symbolic importance of this outcome, given that Afao-Ekiti is the political base of Fayose, a prominent figure in the state’s political landscape. The victory underscores Oyebanji’s strong grassroots support even in territories traditionally considered opposition strongholds. Collation of results continues across the state as officials and party agents verify and sign off on the tallies.

Ten governorship aspirants from the All Progressives Congress in Kwara State have formally appealed to President Bola Tinubu to address what they claim is the forced selection of Speaker Yakubu Danladi Salihu as the party’s candidate for the 2027 elections. In a joint letter dated Saturday, the aspirants warned that the party risks losing the state if the current situation persists.

The petitioners highlighted that the primary election process was deeply flawed, alleging that results were announced for a contest that effectively did not take place. They stressed that many party members and stakeholders feel alienated and may seek alternative platforms to pursue their political goals if the imposition is not corrected.

The aspirants recalled the historic Otoge movement that brought the APC to power in Kwara in 2019, noting that the victory was a collective effort. However, they argued that Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has failed to maintain the inclusive spirit of that coalition, leading to the marginalization of key contributors to the party’s success.

According to the letter, Governor AbdulRazaq’s leadership has weakened the party’s support base and diminished its chances in future elections. The aspirants called on President Tinubu to review the credentials and statewide acceptability of all aspirants, asserting that among them is a leader capable of restoring unity and strengthening the party.

The aggrieved aspirants expressed confidence that the President’s intervention can avert a deeper crisis and ensure the APC’s survival in Kwara State. They urged Tinubu to act in the best interest of the party and the legacy of democratic inclusion it represents.

The Lagos State Government has launched a dedicated task force aimed at removing rubbish from transport parks, bus stops, and garages across the city, while issuing a stern caution against illegal dumping and the proliferation of unauthorized structures in these areas.

This action is part of a broader push to restore environmental order in Africa’s largest city, prompted by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s directive for an intensified 24-hour waste removal campaign statewide.

During an urgent meeting with transport union officials in Alausa, Ikeja, on Saturday, Transportation Commissioner Mr. Oluwaseun Osiyemi stated that the move was required due to the ongoing abuse of public areas by certain residents and transport operators.

He noted that the government could no longer overlook the escalating issue of trash being carelessly discarded on roads, medians, and other communal zones.

“Our city is being marred by reckless waste disposal and environmental degradation. We cannot sit idle while people litter roadsides, medians, and open spaces. This behavior is completely intolerable,” Osiyemi remarked.

He stressed that while enforcement will be ramped up, working with transport unions is vital since they operate extensively across parks and garages throughout the state.

“We are not shirking our duty, nor are we going it alone. We seek cooperation because this battle belongs to everyone,” he added.

Osiyemi warned that individuals caught dumping waste illegally will face penalties and urged transport unions to take charge of cleanliness in their work areas.

He further instructed union leaders to ensure that bus stops, garages, and parks remain well-maintained, free from street hawking and makeshift shelters, and equipped with proper sanitation staff and monitoring systems.

“Our streets are being soiled daily. Before you can enforce order elsewhere, your own garages must be tidy,” he said.

Deputy Chief of Staff Mr. Sam Egube also spoke, describing transport operators as crucial to the state’s security and environmental management network, and urged them to back enforcement initiatives.

“Transport workers are integral to the security fabric of society. If you observe something, speak up,” he stated.

Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, Managing Director of the Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), disclosed that the state generates roughly 13,000 tonnes of waste daily, emphasizing the need to curb indiscriminate dumping.

He called for greater collaboration from transport operators, highlighting that waste must be properly gathered and delivered to approved sites rather than abandoned on roadsides.

“We need your help. Lagos is our home, and we must keep it clean. Waste should be collected from residences and taken to designated points, not thrown onto streets,” he said.

Gbadegesin also warned against the return of street vending near bus stops and newly repaired roads, calling it a setback to ongoing urban renewal projects.

Former Special Adviser on Transportation, Mr. Sola Giwa, explained that the newly formed task force will collaborate with transport unions to enforce sanitation regulations, remove illegal structures, and enhance safety and cleanliness at transport hubs.

In response, leaders from the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) and the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN) expressed support for the initiative while requesting a structured engagement system to improve coordination along transport routes.

The state government reaffirmed its dedication to tackling waste management challenges, noting that although Lagos produces one of the highest volumes of refuse in Africa, it also possesses the capability to handle it effectively.

Officials reassured residents that current environmental issues are temporary and that ongoing measures will soon restore full cleanliness and order throughout the state.

In a powerful display of unity, the people of Ibadan, under the banner of the Omo Aj’orosun Club, have come together to hold interfaith prayers for the swift return of abducted students and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area. The event, part of the club’s 46th anniversary celebrations, also aimed to tackle the broader insecurity plaguing the ancient city and the nation.

The gathering featured leaders from Christian, Islamic, and traditional religions, each leading prayers tailored to their faith. Venerable Sammi Adetule from the Anglican Church of Ascension, Imam Saheed Odekunle of Titilope Central Mosque, and Dr. Fayemi Fatunde Fakayode for traditional religion all participated, emphasizing the community’s collective plea for divine intervention.

Club President Mogaji Kamaldeen Adeniyi Salaudeen addressed the media, explaining that the initiative was driven by the anguish over the captives. ‘We cannot celebrate while our children and teachers remain in captivity,’ he stated. ‘These prayers are our humble request for God’s mercy, protection, and harmony for Ibadan, Oyo State, and Nigeria.’ He highlighted that the interfaith approach was deliberate, reflecting the city’s diverse yet united spirit.

Dr. Fayemi Fatunde Fakayode echoed these sentiments, noting that the prayers would foster stability and peace not only locally but globally. ‘Ibadan indigenes live across Nigeria and the world,’ he said. ‘Our prayers extend beyond borders, asking for peace and normalcy everywhere.’ He expressed confidence that the collective spiritual effort would yield positive results.

The Omo Aj’orosun Club’s initiative underscores a growing trend of communities resorting to spiritual solutions amid persistent security challenges. By bridging religious divides, the event served as a beacon of hope and solidarity, demonstrating that in times of crisis, unity can transcend differences.

In a major move to enhance public safety and environmental preservation, Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed has officially deployed 2,187 newly trained personnel from the Bauchi State Vigilante and Forest Security Services (BSVFSS). The operatives are tasked with intensifying security coverage and protecting the state’s forest reserves and natural endowments.

The deployment follows a passing-out ceremony held on Saturday at the Police Training School in Yelwa. During the event, the governor, represented by Deputy Governor Mohammed Auwal Jatau, formally authorized the personnel to begin operations in accordance with existing legal frameworks and regulations.

Governor Mohammed emphasized that this initiative reflects his administration’s strong commitment to promoting environmental sustainability, conserving forest resources, and improving security across local communities.

He pointed out that the state’s forests are vital for agriculture, economic growth, biodiversity conservation, and the livelihoods of many citizens. However, they face increasing threats from illegal logging, poaching, and unchecked exploitation.

“This initiative demonstrates our dedication to peacebuilding. It stands for integrity and discipline,” the governor stated. “I urge you to serve as excellent representatives and strictly follow the rules of engagement in all operations to fulfill the objectives of the Forest Guard Corps.”

According to him, forested areas have become hideouts for criminal elements, making stronger security measures essential.

The governor also explained that recruiting 2,187 forest guards serves a dual purpose: protecting natural resources and creating job opportunities for the state’s youth.

He expressed confidence that the training provided has equipped the recruits for their duties and urged them to perform with integrity, professionalism, and dedication. He reminded them that they are expected to serve as environmental protectors and defenders of the state’s natural wealth, warning that misconduct, abuse of power, or collaboration with criminals will result in penalties.

Speaking at the event, the State Commissioner of Police, CP Sani-Omolori Aliyu, represented by Deputy Commissioner of Police Musa M. Bulus, stated that the newly trained operatives must maintain high standards of conduct in executing their duties. He called on them to remain disciplined, respect citizens’ rights, and contribute meaningfully to safeguarding lives and property.