Category: News

The leader of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) caucus in the House of Representatives, Fred Agbedi, has strongly criticized the Nigeria Police Force for blocking roads leading to the party’s convention. He described the action as a direct assault on the country’s democratic process.

During an interview on Arise Television on Sunday, Agbedi expressed his displeasure, stating that the police blockade was an attempt to stifle political activities and shrink the democratic space. He emphasized that such actions undermine the principles of free and fair political participation.

On Saturday, police operatives reportedly barricaded routes to the venue where the Taminu Turaki-led faction of the PDP was set to ratify former President Goodluck Jonathan as its presidential candidate. The convention, which had been lawfully secured by the party, faced significant disruptions due to the police presence.

Reacting to the incident, Agbedi said, “The police blocked all access roads, denying citizens their right of movement and preventing the PDP from using a venue it had legally obtained. This is a troubling sign for democracy.” He noted that despite the blockade, the PDP leadership, supporters, and members remained resolute to ensure the convention proceeded without being aborted.

Agbedi called on Nigerians to stay vigilant and defend the democratic space and constitutional freedoms. He warned that any attempt to restrict legitimate political activities poses a threat to democratic values and raises serious questions about the government’s commitment to open political participation.

The Osun State chapter of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) has decided to allocate 50% of its National and State Assembly tickets to women for the 2027 general elections. This move aims to boost female involvement in governance.

During the party’s primaries held at its Osogbo secretariat on Saturday, candidates for legislative positions were unveiled and ratified by delegates.

Osun NNPP Chairman Tosin Odeyemi emphasized that women should be encouraged to take on more significant roles in public service, describing them as brave, capable, and resilient when given leadership opportunities. He noted that the party acknowledges women’s crucial role in mobilizing political support and driving national progress, which led to the decision to reserve half of the legislative tickets for them.

“Osun NNPP is ready for the elections. Nigerians are weary of parties that make empty promises. We recognize the strength of our women,” Odeyemi stated. He added, “That is why we are giving them 50% of our National Assembly and State Assembly tickets for 2027.”

The chairman also mentioned that the party is ramping up preparations for the August 15 governorship election in Osun State and promised greater inclusion of women in governance if the NNPP wins. “We are working hard to improve our chances in the 2026 governorship poll. If voters support us, women will hold key positions in our administration,” he said.

Odeyemi pledged support for women in private businesses, stating they would receive attention from an NNPP-led government. “We firmly believe in the capacity of our women,” he added.

He urged candidates to run issue-based campaigns, avoid personal attacks, and focus on matters affecting voters. Aspirants should only make promises they can deliver if elected.

Speaking on behalf of the candidates, Folasayo Makinde, the NNPP candidate for Osun West Senatorial District, called on women across the state to actively participate in politics and pursue leadership roles with determination. She noted that women often play significant roles during election campaigns but are frequently sidelined after victories. “Men use us more during campaigns; they believe in our ability to gather votes, but once in power, they neglect us,” she said.

Makinde commended the party for creating opportunities for women to contest elective offices and expressed confidence in women’s ability to contribute meaningfully to governance. She appealed to voters, especially women in Osun West, to support her candidacy, promising not to disappoint if elected.

Officials from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) were present at the primaries, where the party’s candidates were formally affirmed as flag bearers for the upcoming polls.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has officially selected Princess Damilola Sonayon-James as its running mate for the 2027 governorship election in Lagos State. She will be vying alongside Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, the party’s governorship flagbearer.

A native of Badagry, Sonayon-James is a well-known figure in politics, sustainability, and business. She has built a reputation for grassroots mobilization and championing women’s involvement in governance and leadership roles.

Currently serving as the Deputy State Chairman of the APC in Lagos, she previously held the position of State Assistant Woman Leader within the party. Her political journey also includes a stint as Supervisory Councillor for Agriculture and Social Services in Badagry West Local Council Development Area.

On the academic front, she holds a Master’s degree in Social Work from Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) and a degree in Business and Human Resources Management from the University of Hull in the United Kingdom.

Beyond politics, Sonayon-James is the Chief Executive Officer of DGS Chauffeurs and Logistics, a company she runs alongside her political engagements. Her diverse background in human resources, logistics, and sustainability management adds depth to her candidacy.

Her nomination as the deputy governorship candidate positions the APC strongly as it gears up for the 2027 election in Lagos State.

The National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), David Mark, has voiced grave concerns over the escalating security challenges and economic difficulties plaguing Nigeria. He highlighted that millions of citizens are grappling with soaring living costs, widespread unemployment, and diminished purchasing power.

Speaking during the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting held in Abuja on Saturday, Mark emphasized that Nigeria is confronting severe security and economic crises that demand immediate attention from leaders across all tiers of government.

In his full address, Mark stated: “Distinguished members of the National Executive Committee, members of the National Working Committee, leaders and stakeholders of our great party, state chairmen, elected officials, members of the media, ladies and gentlemen.

“I warmly welcome you all to this important meeting of our party’s NEC. Today’s gathering occurs at a pivotal moment in our nation’s political and democratic journey—a time that calls for sober reflection, honest assessment, and purposeful action.

“First, I thank Almighty God for granting us the privilege to meet again in good health and unity. I also commend every committee member and the broader party structure for your dedication, sacrifice, and unwavering belief in ADC’s ideals.

“Our party continues to thrive because of your commitment and conviction that Nigeria deserves leadership founded on integrity, competence, justice, and service to the people.

“Distinguished colleagues, the task before us is immense. Nigeria today faces profound challenges. Insecurity is threatening lives and livelihoods across many regions. Communities are displaced, farmers cannot freely cultivate their lands, businesses struggle under harsh economic conditions, and millions of families endure hardship and uncertainty.

“Equally alarming is the growing economic strain on ordinary Nigerians. The rising cost of living, joblessness, diminishing purchasing power, and social unrest demand urgent and sincere attention from those in authority.

“As a responsible opposition party, ADC does not take pleasure in the nation’s difficulties nor seek political gains from the people’s suffering. Instead, we stand firmly behind every genuine effort to restore peace, security, economic stability, and national cohesion.

“We therefore urge all government levels to intensify actions to decisively tackle insecurity and implement policies that improve the quality of life for Nigerians.

“However, our meeting today is not only about reviewing national challenges. It is also about strengthening our internal democratic processes and preparing our party for future responsibilities.

“The NEC is the highest policy-making body of our party outside convention. Its decisions must reflect wisdom, fairness, transparency, and the collective interest of our party.

“We must continue building an institution that inspires confidence among Nigerians—a party that respects internal democracy, rewards loyalty, encourages participation, and upholds discipline.

“ADC must remain a home for all Nigerians seeking credible leadership and genuine democratic alternatives.

“As we prepare for future electoral contests, including the 2027 general elections, we must approach the task with unity and strategic focus. Our strength lies not in division but in unity.

“We must resist any tendency that could weaken our collective resolve. Personal ambition must never override party interest. Internal disagreements should be resolved through dialogue, mutual respect, and established party mechanisms.

“History shows that strong political parties are built on enduring values and institutions, not just personalities.

“I therefore call on all party leaders and members across the federation to close ranks and recommit to the shared vision of building a stronger, more inclusive ADC.

“Let us continue engaging our people, expanding our membership base, empowering grassroots structures, and articulating practical solutions to the problems Nigerians face.”

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has officially designated former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai as a prisoner of conscience. This declaration was made during the party’s 101st National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting, which convened in Abuja on Saturday.

In a strong statement, the opposition party called for the immediate and unconditional release of El-Rufai, who also served as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The ADC emphasized that his continued detention is unjust and violates fundamental human rights.

Beyond the demand for El-Rufai’s freedom, the NEC meeting approved a 12-month extension for the tenure of the National Working Committee (NWC), effective from the end of its current term. Additionally, the committee sanctioned the formation of caretaker committees at the zonal, state, local government, and ward levels, also for a 12-month period.

“We recognise former Governor of Kaduna State, Mallam Nasiru El-Rufai, as a prisoner of conscience. We are therefore calling on the authorities to release him without delay,” the ADC stated.

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has issued a strong appeal to the federal government, led by the All Progressives Congress (APC), to take concrete steps toward enhancing the living standards of Nigerian citizens.

During the National Executive Committee (NEC) gathering held in Abuja on Saturday, the party’s National Chairman, David Mark, delivered this call to action. He emphasized that the government must prioritize the welfare of the people by addressing critical issues such as insecurity.

Mark, a former Senate President, urged leaders and party members across the nation to set aside differences and unite behind the collective goal of building a more resilient and inclusive Nigeria. He warned against allowing personal ambitions to overshadow the broader interests of the party and the country.

“We call on all levels of government to intensify efforts in tackling the security challenges decisively and to implement policies that genuinely make life better for Nigerians,” Mark stated. “We must resist anything that weakens our collective resolve. Personal interest should never take precedence over party goals.”

He further noted that history shows strong political parties are forged not by individuals but by lasting values and institutional strength.

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has expressed frustration over his inability to effectively tackle the recent wave of kidnappings and other security challenges, attributing his powerlessness to the federal government’s control over security agencies. Speaking at the acceptance of his presidential nomination by the African Peoples Movement (APM) in Ibadan on Saturday, Makinde highlighted the painful reality of innocent schoolchildren and citizens remaining in captivity.

He emphasized that while he bears the title of Chief Security Officer of the state, the constitutional constraints prevent him from commanding the security apparatus needed to address these threats decisively. Makinde argued that no elected leader should be held accountable for security failures without being granted the corresponding authority to act.

The governor’s remarks come amid ongoing security concerns in Oyo, where abductions have heightened public anxiety. He reiterated that the current structure leaves state governors helpless, calling for a re-evaluation of security governance to empower local leaders.

The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has authorized the elevation of 17,952 junior officers within the Nigeria Police Force, spanning various ranks nationwide. This massive promotion exercise is part of a broader strategy to improve staff welfare, uplift spirits, and acknowledge exceptional service, hard work, and commitment to duty.

According to a statement from DCP Anthony Okon Placid, the Force Public Relations Officer at Force Headquarters, the promotions cover multiple Commands and Formations across the country. Specifically, 165 Sergeants have been elevated to Inspectors, 73 Corporals to Sergeants, and a remarkable 17,714 Constables to Corporals.

IGP Disu emphasized that timely promotions are a critical component of the Force’s human resource management, serving as a powerful incentive for officers to stay dedicated to their constitutional responsibilities. He stressed that advancing deserving personnel underscores the current police leadership’s commitment to meritocracy, career growth, and organizational improvement.

The IGP congratulated all newly promoted officers, urging them to see their new ranks as a call to heightened accountability, professionalism, discipline, and service. He encouraged them to uphold the Nigeria Police Force’s core values, performing their duties with honesty, respect for human rights, and adherence to the rule of law.

The statement reaffirmed the Nigeria Police Force’s steadfast commitment to fostering excellence, rewarding diligence, and strengthening institutional capacity in line with global policing standards.

The Nigeria Police Force has called for restraint as concerns mount over possible backlash following reports of xenophobic violence against Nigerians in South Africa.

In a statement released by DCP Anthony Okon Placid, the police addressed the growing anxiety among citizens and warned against any retaliatory actions targeting South African nationals, businesses, or diplomatic missions within Nigeria.

This advisory comes after a high-level security meeting held on 18 May 2026, chaired by the National Security Adviser, where intelligence agencies assessed the situation and devised strategies to manage potential threats.

The police emphasized that the federal government is actively engaging through diplomatic, intelligence, and security channels to resolve the tensions peacefully and protect Nigerian interests at home and abroad.

While acknowledging public concern for the safety of Nigerians in South Africa, the force cautioned against taking matters into one’s own hands. Acts of revenge, violence, intimidation, destruction of property, hate speech, or any behavior that disrupts public order and national security are illegal and will be met with the full force of the law.

The statement further reminded the public that Nigeria is a nation governed by the rule of law, where all legal residents, regardless of nationality, are entitled to protection. Any attempts to target South African citizens, businesses, or diplomatic facilities in Nigeria will be treated as criminal offenses.

The police also urged citizens to refrain from spreading unverified or inflammatory information, especially on social media, as such actions can escalate tensions and hinder diplomatic efforts.

In coordination with other security agencies, the police have heightened surveillance and activated security protocols around critical national assets to prevent any outbreak of violence.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s decision to grant Professor Chinwe Veronica Anunobi a final five-year term extension as chief executive officer of the National Library of Nigeria has sparked a wave of diverse opinions among stakeholders. While some have praised the move, others have expressed strong opposition.

Shehu Mustapha, the National Coordinator of the Coalition of Young Nigerian Librarians, issued a statement on Saturday commending the extension. He argued that it would guarantee continuity in ongoing reform efforts, facilitate the completion of the National Library Headquarters project, and help achieve the institution’s 2025-2030 Strategic Plan. Mustapha highlighted Anunobi’s track record as a reformer and efficient administrator, noting that since her initial appointment in 2021, she has spearheaded several key initiatives, including the creation and operation of the National Repository of Nigeria, the Newspaper and Magazine Locator, the Index and Abstract to Nigerian Newspapers, and the National Virtual Library of Nigeria. He urged the government to maintain focused leadership across the literary and education sectors.

However, not all reactions have been favorable. Critics of the extension argue that it undermines opportunities for new leadership and fresh perspectives within the National Library. The mixed responses underscore the polarized views surrounding the president’s decision.