Category: News

The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has leveled accusations of religious discrimination against the Federal Government regarding two separate issues: the proposed construction of a N25 billion ecumenical chapel at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport and the distribution of relief funds.

In a statement released on Friday, MURIC’s Executive Director, Professor Ishaq Akintola, expressed concern that the project, reportedly carried out in partnership with the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), raises questions about equal treatment of religious communities in Nigeria.

The organization also highlighted what it sees as an unfair allocation of relief funds, pointing to the reported N2 billion given to victims of violence in Plateau State while other affected states such as Borno, Sokoto, Zamfara, Kebbi, and Kwara received no similar aid.

MURIC further questioned the reported N1.2 billion distributed among the 19 northern states for the Eid al-Kabir celebration, calling the amount disproportionate compared to the Plateau intervention. “How can one state receive N2 billion while all 19 northern states must split N1.2 billion? Is it fair to treat Muslims as second-class citizens?” the statement asked.

The group also demanded clarity from the federal government regarding plans for Muslim religious infrastructure, urging authorities to ensure parity. “We ask the government to tell Nigerians when land of equal size will be given to Muslims to build their national mosque. And don’t forget the N25 billion sitting at the Central Bank that should accompany the land allocation,” MURIC added.

MURIC warned that perceived imbalances could heighten religious tensions and called on the government to uphold fairness and inclusivity in its policies. As of the time of writing, neither the federal government nor CAN has responded to the allegations.

The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye, has firmly declared that Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, will not be stripped of her pastoral ordination despite mounting calls for her removal.

Speaking at the church’s monthly Holy Ghost Service, Adeboye emphasized that Oluremi Tinubu was ordained as an Assistant Pastor in RCCG over a decade ago, long before her husband, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, entered the presidential race. He clarified that her ordination followed all required church procedures and that she has not breached any of the church’s doctrines or guidelines.

‘She was properly ordained many years ago, far before her husband’s political journey toward the presidency began,’ Adeboye stated, adding that the church will not succumb to external pressures demanding her dismissal. He stressed that RCCG operates on established spiritual and procedural principles and will not be swayed by political sentiment or public outcry.

Adeboye affirmed that the First Lady remains in good standing within the church and continues to fulfill her pastoral duties without any infractions.

During the 2026 Workers’ Day celebration at Uyo Township Stadium, the Akwa Ibom State chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) made a heartfelt plea to Governor Pastor Umo Eno. The union requested the establishment and full equipping of an Information and Communications Technology (ICT) center in the state. Comrade Sunny James, the NLC chairperson, emphasized that such a facility would enable workers unfamiliar with computers to gain essential digital skills at a low cost. He recalled that a similar appeal was made to the previous administration in 2022, expressing optimism that the renewed call would finally be addressed.

Additionally, the NLC called for increased funding for primary education. James highlighted the need to align pension and gratuity payments for retired teachers with those in other sectors. He pointed out that some teachers promoted in 2024 only recently received their promotion letters, meaning they lost out on two years of benefits. The union urged the governor to correct this anomaly.

Comrade Kingsley Akpan, chairperson of the Trade Union Congress (TUC) in the state, described this year’s theme—’Insecurity and Poverty: The Bane of Decent Work’—as fitting. He raised concerns about labor exploitation and alleged slavery in multinational companies operating in Akwa Ibom, stating that these firms often fail to pay lawful settlements. Akpan urged the government to intervene and ensure workers’ rights are protected. He also called for the realization of the Ibom Deep Seaport and Science Park, as well as the revival of ALSCON, noting the immense job potential of these projects.

In response, Governor Eno, represented by Deputy Governor Senator Akon Eyakenyi, congratulated the workers and reaffirmed his commitment to their welfare. He praised the constructive relationship between the government and organized labour, promising continued policies that prioritize workers’ interests.

The spiritual leader of the INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, Primate Elijah Ayodele, has issued a stark caution to President Bola Tinubu regarding the government’s ongoing borrowing strategy. In a communication from his media representative, Osho Oluwatosin, the cleric emphasized that excessive borrowing signals a failure to harness the nation’s existing wealth for meaningful development.

Ayodele argued that persistent loans, if not addressed, could precipitate a severe economic downturn. He highlighted that Nigeria possesses abundant natural resources across multiple states, including Taraba, Zamfara, and Kogi, which could be leveraged to achieve economic independence. “Stop borrowing money; we have resources in states like Taraba and Zamfara. Nigeria will effectively be put up for sale if Tinubu continues this borrowing trajectory. The country will sink if we are not careful,” he warned.

The prophet further asserted that Nigeria’s debt mountain is insurmountable and that the nation’s own resources should be used to stabilize the economy rather than relying on external loans. He urged the president to avoid reaching a point where global lenders refuse to extend further credit to Nigeria. “We are on a debt that can never be fully repaid, but we can use what we have to save the economy instead of these debts. The country is rich already; let us not get to a level where nobody would want to borrow from us money again,” Ayodele stated.

Concluding his admonition, Ayodele declared that continued borrowing would ultimately destroy the Nigerian economy. He reiterated the need to utilize the resources in various states to improve the nation’s condition. “Borrowing will kill the Nigerian economy; use resources in some of our states to make the country better,” he added.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has officially labeled insecurity and poverty as national emergencies, stating that these issues pose severe risks to employment, economic output, and overall national security. He made this declaration during a May Day address at Eagle Square, where he spoke to a large gathering of workers and labor leaders.

Represented by Secretary to the Government of the Federation George Akume, Tinubu emphasized that decent work cannot exist in an environment filled with fear and financial struggle. He aligned his remarks with the International Labour Organization’s Decent Work Agenda, which served as the global theme for the day.

The president acknowledged that insecurity and poverty remain major hurdles but assured that his administration is tackling them with urgency. He introduced the Community Protection Guards Initiative, which has already enrolled 45,000 young Nigerians to enhance local security while generating jobs.

Under the Renewed Hope Agenda, Tinubu highlighted expanded cash transfer programs reaching 15 million vulnerable households, lifting an estimated 7.5 million Nigerians out of poverty. Major infrastructure projects like the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and the Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano Gas Pipeline have created over 600,000 jobs across the country.

Regarding workers’ welfare, the government has implemented a new national minimum wage, cleared pension arrears, and reinstated gratuity payments starting January 2026. Additionally, over 800,000 informal sector workers have enrolled in the micro-pension scheme, and small businesses have access to a N200 billion MSME support fund.

Tinubu stressed that decent work is impossible when workers fear for their lives, wages cannot support families, and insecurity disrupts economic activities. He described these challenges as hydra-headed but noted that the government is treating them as a national emergency due to their impact on productivity and confidence.

The administration reiterated its commitment to building a peaceful Nigeria where citizens can sleep with their eyes closed and achieve the Decent Work Agenda. It framed the agenda not just as an international framework but as a national necessity aligned with the vision of rewarding hard work and providing equal opportunities.

Despite persistent challenges, the government assured that it is not relenting. It is addressing the issues through deliberate, coordinated, and sustained actions backed by targeted policies and the dedication of security personnel, some of whom have made the ultimate sacrifice.

Addressing labor unions including the Nigeria Labour Congress and Trade Union Congress, Tinubu called for continuous dialogue and restraint in industrial disputes. He urged that strikes be a last resort, not a first option, and encouraged collaboration for lasting reforms.

The president also commended security forces for protecting economic activities, noting that improved safety directly fuels job creation and national growth. He reaffirmed Nigeria’s path to overcoming insecurity and reducing poverty, promising a future where decent work is a reality for all, not a privilege for a few.

In a series of coordinated operations, troops from the Joint Task Force North East, also known as Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), have achieved significant successes against insurgents. The forces neutralized multiple terrorists, detained suspects, and facilitated the surrender of a Boko Haram member.

According to Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, the Media Information Officer for the task force, these accomplishments were made possible through collaboration with the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF). The operations targeted terrorists moving from Yale toward the Sambisa Forest area, resulting in the deaths of four insurgents. Additionally, troops recovered an AK-47 rifle, ammunition, and food supplies believed to be intended for terrorist logistics.

Ongoing aggressive patrols along key routes such as Dambboa–Maiduguri, Dambboa–Gwoza, and the Goniri axis have effectively restricted terrorist movements and operations. In a separate incident, soldiers stationed at Kanama apprehended two individuals suspected of aiding terrorists during a routine stop-and-search. The suspects were found with clothing and personal items that may have been used to support insurgent activities. Preliminary inquiries have also uncovered digital evidence suggesting links to terrorist networks. Both individuals remain in custody for further questioning.

Furthermore, at a checkpoint in Kukawa Local Government Area, a suspected Boko Haram/ISWAP fighter voluntarily surrendered. The individual claimed he was abducted earlier this year and forced to join the group. He is currently being profiled and investigated.

The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, on Thursday, April 30, 2026, visited the home of late Assistant Superintendent of Police Ejeh Alfred in Abuja to offer his condolences and reaffirm the force’s commitment to the family.

ASP Ejeh, a driver with the Nigeria Police Airwing, lost his life during an operational duty on April 17, 2026. The IGP spent time with the widow, Mrs. Mercy Ejeh, her children, and other relatives, expressing deep sympathy over the tragic loss.

Describing the deceased as a devoted and hardworking officer, Disu emphasized that his sacrifice for the nation would always be remembered. He reassured the family that the Nigeria Police Force would continue to provide necessary support, highlighting that the welfare of officers and the families of those who die in active service remains a top priority.

The IGP also offered prayers for the eternal rest of the late officer’s soul and reiterated that the force would stand by the family during this difficult period.

The Bauchi State chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has urged the state government to settle outstanding gratuities owed to retired civil servants and improve overall worker welfare. The appeal was made during the joint 2026 International Workers’ Day celebration with the Trade Union Congress (TUC) in Bauchi.

NLC state chairman Dauda Shuaibu emphasized that retirees who served the state for up to 35 years deserve a dignified exit, calling for a clear framework to clear the backlog of unpaid gratuities. He also requested the allocation of houses built under the Civil Servants Housing Scheme to prevent deterioration from the approaching rainy season and windstorms.

Shuaibu further appealed for the provision of two 18-seater buses to support NLC operations as a coordinating body for over 40 affiliate unions. On welfare, the union demanded the reinstatement of the leave transport grant, describing it as a statutory right that boosts productivity and wellbeing.

The NLC also called for the revival of motorcycle and car loan schemes to improve worker mobility. It expressed concern over the non-remittance of deductions to the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria, which has blocked workers’ access to housing loans, and demanded immediate refunds and resumed remittances.

Additionally, the union urged the extension of full CONHESS and CONMESS salary structures to local government workers to address disparities, as done for state health workers. It also called for resolution of outstanding issues in the Contributory Pension Scheme implementation.

Governor Bala Mohammed, represented by his deputy Muhammad Auwal Jatau, assured workers of the administration’s commitment to clearing all gratuities before the end of its tenure. He cited the implementation of the N70,000 national minimum wage and payroll system reforms as evidence of prioritizing worker welfare despite economic challenges.

Head of Civil Service Mohammed Sani Umar commended the governor for sustaining the N70,000 minimum wage and N32,000 minimum pension. He noted various welfare measures, including work-free days for junior officers during farming season, subsidized agricultural inputs, and distribution of palliatives during economic hardship.

Umar added that the 2025 recruitment exercise strengthened the civil service and created youth employment, while training programs improved worker skills. He urged civil servants to reciprocate through dedication and adherence to public service rules, emphasizing that efficient service delivery is key to tackling poverty and insecurity.

Governor Umar Namadi of Jigawa State has pointed to pervasive insecurity and widespread poverty as major barriers to securing decent employment opportunities. Speaking at the 2026 Workers’ Day gathering held at Muhammadu Sunusi Bello Durbar Ground in Dutse, the governor highlighted how these twin issues directly impact labour conditions and overall quality of life.

The event, themed ‘Insecurity and Poverty as the Bane of Decent Work,’ provided a platform for Namadi to underscore the deep connection between these challenges and the daily struggles faced by workers. He emphasized that addressing them requires both well-orchestrated policies and collective accountability. ‘These problems touch every aspect of living, and they demand our unwavering focus,’ he stated.

Namadi outlined his administration’s 12-point development strategy, which prioritizes agriculture, infrastructure, healthcare, education, and social protection. He noted that the agricultural transformation initiative is specifically designed to enhance food security, generate jobs, and offer sustainable livelihoods. The governor also reaffirmed his commitment to ongoing dialogue with organized labour, asserting that the government remains open to discussions aimed at resolving worker grievances. ‘We cherish this collaboration and will persist in striving for equity, openness, and advancement for all employees,’ he added.

Sunusi Alhassan, chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress in Jigawa, recognized the government’s strides in boosting worker welfare but stressed that eradicating poverty and insecurity is crucial for achieving decent work. He applauded the governor’s attention to the well-being of civil servants in the state, urging continued efforts to ensure lasting improvements.

Residents of Ugakwoche in Egbule Obube, Owerri North Local Government Area, have voiced strong opposition to what they describe as the unlawful seizure of their ancestral land by the Imo State Government. The community, comprising farmers, youth, elders, and women, organized a peaceful demonstration on Wednesday to halt the government’s move to take over their remaining farmland covering roughly 200 hectares.

The protesters, dressed in black and carrying placards, marched from their village square to the farmland bordering the Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport road. Many wept and fell to the ground as they expressed their anguish. Their placards bore messages like “All our land in Ugakwoche is gone,” “Stop land grabbing,” “Governor, please save us,” “Our people are under attack,” “Our ancestral farmland is lost,” “Our children have no future,” “We have no other farm land,” and “Don’t let our youths turn to crime due to lack of farmland.”

Reacting swiftly, the State Commissioner for Lands and Survey, Barr. Enyinna Onuegbu, denied the allegations, asserting that the government had already acquired the land long ago for development projects and that no fresh acquisition was taking place.

Pastor Cletus Opara, chairman of Ugakwoche village, speaking on behalf of the community, expressed disappointment that the government had not engaged in any dialogue or signed a memorandum of understanding before moving into their land. He described the Good Friday incursion as an insult to the peaceful people of the area. “We are protesting peacefully because of the government’s action of sending agents to bulldoze our remaining ancestral farmland without any prior notice or agreement. Earlier, they took 100 hectares for a Nigerian Air Force base, which we allowed for public interest. Now they want the rest without negotiation or due process—this will destroy our means of survival,” Opara said.

Hon. Kelechi Opara, another community leader, condemned the government’s actions, accusing it of a deliberate scheme to turn the people into refugees on their own land. He pointed out that the community depends on farming for its livelihood. He explained that the land had been initially acquired in 2017 by former Governor Rochas Okorocha, who took 200 hectares, giving 100 hectares to the Air Force. The remaining land was returned to the community by a panel set up by Governor Emeka Ihedioha. A 2020 White Paper and Gazette directed the Ministry of Lands to reclaim the 100 hectares improperly given to third parties and return them to the original owners. “But now the same government comes without warning to take even our residential areas. We appeal to the governor to protect us from this destruction,” he added.

Commissioner Onuegbu reiterated that the ongoing work was not a new acquisition but a recovery and clearing of land already belonging to the government for development. He advised the community, through their traditional ruler Eze Jude Nworgu, to formally write to the governor for consideration under the Land Use Act. “I cannot be called a land grabber for doing my job. In my own community, Mbaishii in Ngor Okpala, the government acquired 2,000 hectares under former Governor Achike Udenwa, and we still live there. Under the Land Use Act, the governor holds all land in trust for public purposes,” he said.

Special Adviser to the Governor on Monitoring and Compliance, Chinasa Nwaneri, also refuted claims of land grabbing. He urged the community to engage the governor formally, showing a government site plan indicating that the remaining land is earmarked for an Orashi Power Station substation, which he said is for the public good.