Category: News

The Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (PCN) has shut down 821 pharmaceutical outlets in Kano State following a crackdown on regulatory infractions. The four-day enforcement operation, covering eight local government areas, was announced during a press conference at the council’s state office on Thursday.

Dr. Suleiman S. Chiroma, the Head of Enforcement, who represented the Registrar/Chief Executive Officer, stated that the exercise targeted illegal medicine sellers and non-adherent pharmaceutical businesses that failed to meet approved standards. A total of 1,140 premises were inspected, including pharmacies, patent and proprietary medicine vendor (PPMV) stores, and unauthorized outlets.

Out of these, 821 were sealed: 68 pharmacies, 587 PPMV stores, and 166 illegal outlets. Additionally, 10 compliance directives were issued, and one individual was arrested for obstructing inspectors and violating the PCN Act.

Chiroma highlighted common violations such as the inability to present valid licenses, selling prescription-only drugs by unlicensed vendors, improper storage conditions, and interference with regulatory officers. These infractions pose serious public health risks, including drug abuse, poisoning, and the proliferation of substandard or fake medicines.

The operation also uncovered clusters of illegal pharmaceutical activities in Kasuwan Kurmi and Kwangiri areas of Kano metropolis, where 46 non-compliant outlets were sealed. Chiroma noted improved compliance levels compared to previous exercises, with more premises now meeting regulatory requirements.

He urged the public to purchase medicines only from licensed outlets displaying valid PCN certification and assured continued nationwide enforcement to ensure the availability of safe and quality medications.

Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has extended warm congratulations to Nigerian workers on the 2026 Workers’ Day. In a statement released on May 1, he lauded their resilience, patriotism, and unyielding contributions to the nation’s development.

Yilwatda, through his media aide Abimbola Tooki, emphasized that workers across various sectors form the bedrock of national progress. He specifically acknowledged their fortitude and patience amidst challenging economic conditions, interpreting these as evidence of the Nigerian spirit’s strength.

The APC chairman assured that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration remains resolutely focused on advancing policies that prioritize the welfare, dignity, and prosperity of the workforce. He described the President as a leader genuinely attuned to the needs of labor and its crucial role in nation-building.

Yilwatda further explained that the ongoing economic reforms—such as the removal of fuel subsidy, foreign exchange unification, increased infrastructure spending, expansion of social safety nets, and a renewed push for industrialization—are essential for tackling deep-seated structural issues. These measures, he argued, aim to boost productivity, foster economic stability, attract domestic and foreign investment, and create more jobs and wealth.

Acknowledging the temporary difficulties that may arise, he assured that targeted relief measures are in place to mitigate the impact, ensuring the benefits are widely shared. He expressed confidence that the sacrifices workers are making will lead to a more prosperous, inclusive, and resilient economy.

Concluding, Yilwatda urged Nigerian workers to remain steadfast, hopeful, and united behind the national development agenda, stressing that collective effort is key to achieving the nation’s aspirations. He wished all workers a fulfilling Workers’ Day celebration and prayed for their continued strength and prosperity.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has pushed back the deadlines for purchasing aspirant forms and submitting completed documents for the 2027 general elections.

This decision was taken during a National Working Committee (NWC) meeting held on Thursday in Abuja. Speaking to journalists, Deputy National Publicity Secretary Durosinmi Meseko revealed that the sale of Expression of Interest and Nomination Forms will now run until midnight on Monday, May 4, 2026. Additionally, the deadline for submitting filled forms and accompanying documents has been moved to midnight on Tuesday, May 5, 2026.

Previously, the forms sale was scheduled from April 25 to May 2, 2026, with submissions due by May 4. Meseko explained that the extension was necessary due to the nationwide public holiday on Friday and to accommodate the overwhelming interest shown by numerous aspirants.

The Delta State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has expressed profound satisfaction with the recent Supreme Court verdict that upheld the Court of Appeal’s cancellation of the Ibadan Convention. In a statement, the party’s Publicity Secretary, Chief Kingsley Akpos Oturubo, emphasized that the ruling underscores the supremacy of the rule of law over popular sentiment.

According to the PDP, the apex court’s decision has effectively ended the protracted leadership crisis within the party. The statement noted, “Now is the time to refocus and strengthen our organization. To all Deltans, the PDP is more united and robust than ever. We are prepared to reclaim our electoral mandates in 2027.”

The party acknowledged the unwavering trust Deltans have placed in it and urged them to renew their commitment. “We call on the people of Delta State to enter into a fresh social contract with our party. The PDP remains the only entity that has delivered genuine democratic governance,” the statement added.

Highlighting its track record, the PDP asserted that under its leadership, democracy flourishes and citizens enjoy its benefits. “We are ready to provide effective governance to the people of Delta State, who are currently facing challenges. We have never let the electorate down, and 2027 will be no different. With your support, we will triumph and restore lost glory.”

The party also extended an olive branch to members who had defected to other parties, urging them to return to the fold. “To our members who have strayed, we will be gracious in victory. We invite you to join us for the journey ahead. The PDP is your home, and your interests will be protected.”

Reaffirming its democratic credentials, the PDP stated, “This party is the only truly democratic platform in Nigeria, and it will not treat its members as political orphans. We urge all members to return immediately as we rebuild and prepare to recover our mandates in 2027.”

The Delta State PDP congratulated the National Working Committee, led by Abdulrahman Mohammed, and National Secretary Senator Samuel Anyanwu, for their victory. “This success proves that those who adhere to the law will ultimately prevail, regardless of obstacles. It renews the faith of Nigerians in our party. We commend your resilience and dedication.”

The recent Supreme Court verdict has plunged the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) into a leadership crisis, according to a faction loyal to former Minister Tanimu Turaki. The group argues that the decision effectively eliminates any clear chain of command within the opposition party.

In a statement issued by its spokesperson, Ini Ememobong, the Turaki-aligned group described the ruling as a pivotal moment that threatens the party’s stability. They emphasized that the court’s judgment, which upheld earlier rulings by the Court of Appeal and the Federal High Court, invalidated a PDP convention held in Ibadan.

The Supreme Court’s five-member panel delivered a split decision, with three justices supporting the majority opinion and two dissenting. The majority determined that the appellants had violated an existing court order by proceeding with the convention, leading to the dismissal of their appeal on grounds of contempt. In contrast, the dissenting justices argued that the matter was an internal party affair and should not have been adjudicated by the courts. They also criticized the majority for raising legal issues not argued by the parties.

Ememobong warned that the combination of this ruling and previous suspensions of key party figures has created a void in leadership. “This effectively leaves the PDP without a defined leadership,” he stated. The faction urged party organs to take immediate steps to restore order and legitimacy, cautioning that failure to act could undermine Nigeria’s multi-party democracy.

Desmond Elliot, the lawmaker representing Surulere Constituency I in the Lagos State House of Assembly, has made his intention to seek a fourth term official. The declaration took place on Thursday at the Surulere Local Government Secretariat, where he addressed a large gathering of supporters.

Elliot emphasized that the decision to run again was driven by the overwhelming consensus among his constituents. Many have urged him to continue his legislative work, citing his track record of delivering tangible benefits to the community.

The theme of his declaration, “Experience Over Experiment,” underscores his belief that his years in office have equipped him with the expertise needed to serve effectively. As a legislator with a doctorate in legislative studies, Elliot argues that his academic and practical background makes him uniquely qualified for the role.

He highlighted his achievements, including the rehabilitation of over 32 roads in Surulere, consistent desilting of drainage systems that prevented flooding, and significant improvements in electricity supply. Additionally, he mentioned various healthcare interventions, such as eye surgeries and other medical programs for residents.

Elliot also pointed out that returning to the assembly would allow him to serve as a ranking member, which he believes will enable him to attract even more developmental projects to the constituency. He expressed gratitude for the support from Community Development Associations (CDAs), local government officials, and grassroots stakeholders.

Former Surulere Local Government Chairman Tajudeen Ajide urged party members and Elliot’s supporters to remain peaceful and avoid double-dealing during the election period. Meanwhile, stakeholders from the entertainment industry and community leadership, including Nollywood figure Sunny McDonald (aka Nollywood Ancestor), voiced their endorsement, describing Elliot as a tested and trusted representative.

McDonald remarked that a winning team should not be changed, citing Elliot’s accomplishments in Surulere as evidence of his effectiveness. Cornell Udofia, Director of Communications for the Actors Guild of Nigeria in Lagos, echoed this sentiment, noting that Elliot’s experience cannot be bought and that he has positively impacted youths, women, and the less privileged.

Community leader Prince Taofeek Dabiri praised Elliot’s accessibility and responsiveness, stating that his 12-year tenure in the assembly has yielded impactful laws and contributions. The stakeholders collectively expressed confidence in Elliot’s ability to sustain development in Surulere if re-elected.

The Independent National Electoral Commission has expanded its leadership team with the addition of a newly appointed National Commissioner, Rear Admiral Jamila Abubakar Sadiq Malafa (retired), following her official swearing-in by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

INEC Chairman Joash Amupitan welcomed the new commissioner, noting that her arrival comes at a critical time as the commission ramps up preparations for future electoral events. He emphasized that the appointment is both timely and strategically significant given the current phase of INEC’s electoral schedule.

In a statement published on INEC Nigeria’s X account, Amupitan highlighted that the commissioner’s appointment fills a vacancy in the North-East geopolitical zone that had remained open for more than a year. Restoring full representation in that region, he argued, will enhance the commission’s decision-making capabilities as it gears up for upcoming polls.

Amupitan also praised Malafa’s professional credentials, pointing out that her background in legal practice, military service, and logistics management will be valuable assets in areas such as election planning, security coordination, and the resolution of electoral disputes.

The INEC chairman reaffirmed the commission’s dedication to its constitutional duties, stating that it remains resolute despite various obstacles. He revealed that preparations are already in motion for several electoral exercises, including by-elections and other scheduled ballots leading up to the 2027 general elections.

“These off-cycle elections will serve as important benchmarks in assessing and strengthening the commission’s operational readiness,” Amupitan said. He explained that the lessons learned from these exercises will aid INEC in preparing for the presidential and National Assembly elections slated for January 2027, as well as the governorship and state assembly elections expected in February 2027.

Amupitan urged the new commissioner to take an active role in the commission’s activities, collaborate with colleagues, and leverage the institution’s accumulated experience to help deliver credible, transparent, and inclusive elections throughout Nigeria.

Atiku Abubakar, former Vice President and a prominent figure in the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has offered his perspective on the recent Supreme Court ruling. He characterizes the decision as a powerful endorsement of the party’s leadership structure.

In a post on his X account on Thursday, Atiku expressed his approval of the apex court’s judgment, which validated David Mark’s position and the overall leadership of the ADC.

He stated, “While we celebrate the Supreme Court’s clear backing of David Mark and the leadership of our esteemed party, the African Democratic Congress, we must remain vigilant. The journey to reclaim our nation is far from over.”

Continuing, he added, “This triumph is for the Nigerian people—those brave millions who have not given up on their future. We express our gratitude to them and encourage them to stay resolute, as the fight continues. As we move forward, let us remember that eternal vigilance is the cost of freedom.”

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has declared that Thursday’s Supreme Court verdict effectively resolves the leadership disputes within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), affirming that the party remains united and faction-free.

Speaking to the press at his residence in Abuja, Wike dismissed any claims of division, emphasizing that the court’s decision has brought much-needed clarity to the party’s internal conflicts. According to Wike, the ruling underscores that the PDP is a single, cohesive entity without any splinter groups.

He specifically noted that the Supreme Court’s 3-2 decision invalidated the party’s national convention held in Ibadan on November 15 and 16, 2025. That convention had sought to establish a leadership faction backed by Seyi Makinde. The court determined that the convention violated prior court orders, which mandated specific procedural steps before any such gathering could be held. The ruling also criticized the PDP for proceeding with the convention despite explicit directives to halt.

Offering a broader perspective on the political landscape, Wike drew a clear line between political parties and individuals. He expressed that while he holds the PDP in high regard, he harbors strong reservations about certain individuals within the party. “My dislike is not for the party itself but for some people involved,” he stated. “These are individuals who, in my view, have contributed significantly to Nigeria’s challenges.”

Governor Nasir Idris of Kebbi State has officially set up a consensus committee within the All Progressives Congress (APC) to align the interests of various aspirants before the upcoming party primaries. The committee was inaugurated on Thursday, with the governor emphasizing the need for internal harmony.

During the inauguration, Idris explained that the committee’s primary role is to engage with all party members who have obtained nomination forms for different elective positions, aiming to reach a consensus wherever feasible. He noted that this initiative reflects the party’s dedication to internal cohesion and highlighted that both consensus building and direct primaries are acceptable methods for candidate selection under current electoral laws.

The governor expressed optimism that the APC in Kebbi State would handle its internal affairs effectively, citing the party’s history of discipline and unity. He urged committee members to reconcile aspirants, settle disputes, and ensure a smooth and acceptable process that would strengthen the party for the forthcoming elections.

The consensus committee is chaired by Ambassador Saidu Nasamu Dakingari and includes prominent figures such as Alhaji Suleiman Muhammad Argungu Jarma, APC National Organising Secretary Alhaji Abubakar Kana Zuru, APC State Chairman Alhaji Abubakar Gari Mallam, and other senior party and government officials. Additional members are Umar Idris Buro (Chief of Staff), retired Justice Suleiman Muhammad Ambursa, and Alhaji Yakubu Bala Tafida, who will serve as secretary.

In his response, committee chairman Dakingari expressed gratitude for the trust placed in them by the governor and pledged to execute their duties with fairness and transparency. He assured that the committee would prioritize the party’s interests and work towards a credible consensus process.

This development occurs as the APC ramps up preparations for its primaries in advance of the 2027 general elections.