Category: News

The National Democratic Congress (NDC) has chosen Ibrahim Kashim, a former Secretary to the Bauchi State Government, as its governorship candidate for the 2027 elections. The selection was made through a consensus process, as announced by Paul Daniel, the chairman of the party’s electoral committee for the primary election, during a press briefing in Bauchi on Friday.

Daniel explained that the decision came after extensive consultations with party stakeholders and other aspirants, emphasizing that the consensus approach underscores unity within the NDC. He declared Kashim as the official candidate for the upcoming poll.

Abdullahi Maigari, the NDC chairman in Bauchi, praised the party’s rising popularity across the state, highlighting that it is one of the few political groups free from internal conflicts. He expressed strong confidence in Kashim’s experience and ability to tackle the socio-economic issues affecting the state.

In his acceptance speech, Kashim expressed gratitude to party leaders, delegates, and supporters for their trust. He vowed to prioritize education, healthcare, agriculture, youth empowerment, infrastructure, and transparent governance if elected. He also urged residents and party members to rally behind the party’s vision as the 2027 elections approach.

President Bola Tinubu has voiced his delight that Nigerian states are no longer facing difficulties in meeting their salary obligations, marking a significant shift from the situation prior to his assumption of office on May 29, 2024.

Speaking on Friday in Lagos while receiving the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, led by Vice President Kashim Shettima, for a Sallah visit at his residence, Tinubu reflected on the improved financial conditions. He remarked that while watching clips of the Sokoto-Badagry corridor, he envisioned the potential for constructing numerous dams for irrigation, farming, and electricity generation along that route. He acknowledged the governors for fostering resilience among citizens and encouraging trust in his administration.

Tinubu expressed profound gratitude, stating, “You have built that trust around one person: my leadership. I thank you very much. I am truly grateful. I cannot express enough how thankful I am to Almighty God that we are here together to share our thoughts and developmental programs.” He highlighted that out of 27 governors seeking federal loans and interventions, the era of struggling to pay salaries has ended. “I am glad that out of the 27 governors borrowing from the federal government and asking for interventions, we are no longer struggling to pay salaries. No more,” he said.

In a bold statement on Friday, the Movement for the Actualization of the Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB) urged the Nigerian Army to redirect its hostility towards the Islamic terrorist bandits terrorizing northern and western Nigeria. The group’s leader, Comrade Uchenna Madu, issued this challenge in response to what MASSOB claims is the Army’s aggressive stance against the upcoming Biafra Day anniversary.

MASSOB alleged that the 82 Division of the Nigerian Army in Enugu described its directive to churches in Biafra land to hold memorial services and prayers for victims of the 1967-70 genocide as irresponsible and provocative. The group criticized the Army for not labeling the activities of Islamic bandits as equally provocative or illegitimate, asserting that the Army should be ashamed of its selective outrage.

The group further urged churches in Biafra land to ignore the Army’s statements and not to succumb to such pressures. MASSOB emphasized that the Army’s provocations will never push them towards violence or armed struggle, highlighting their commitment to non-violence. The group stated that the Army is uneasy with the growing reality of Biafra’s actualization and restoration.

Madu questioned why the Army targets MASSOB, given its non-violent approach and adherence to international standards of self-determination activism. He reiterated that MASSOB has never resorted to arms or retaliated against security agencies for extrajudicial killings of its members, as their foundation is rooted in peaceful principles.

Looking ahead, Madu reminded that tomorrow marks the 59th anniversary of the Biafra declaration by General Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu. He called on Biafrans to observe a sit-at-home in commemoration. On Sunday, May 31, all churches in Biafra land are expected to hold special prayers for Biafra and the victims of the genocide endured by the people.

The Coalition of Registered Political Parties (CRPP) has voiced strong condemnation over the chaos that erupted during the Children’s Day festivities at Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Edo State, leaving numerous students with injuries. The incident, which occurred on May 27, 2026, saw security personnel deploy pepper spray and tear gas to manage crowds, triggering a stampede that reportedly harmed over 50 students, predominantly girls.

According to CRPP National Chairman Dr. Samson Isibor, the use of non-state actors like bouncers for crowd control at such a large-scale event was highly questionable. He further criticized the involvement of Government House security in authorizing the use of chemical agents, which escalated the situation and led to the trampling of innocent children trying to flee.

The coalition alleged that two students may have lost their lives, though this has not been officially confirmed. Videos and images of the tragic event have circulated widely online, contradicting the state government’s denial of any fatalities. Isibor argued that the disaster exposes Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration as inept in crowd management and failing to safeguard children, especially girls.

He stated, “This tragedy reveals the government’s so-called child-friendly image as a facade. The alleged invasion by cultists also undermines the governor’s claims of eradicating cultism, showing that security challenges persist.”

The CRPP demands a public apology from Governor Okpebholo to the children and parents affected. They urge the state to cover all medical expenses for the injured and provide fair compensation for their losses.

Recall that the Edo State Government had earlier denied any student deaths, dismissing such reports as baseless.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has set up a robust campaign structure for the forthcoming governorship election in Ekiti State, appointing Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State as the head of the council. The party initially designated Senator Uba Sani to lead the campaign team on April 24, 2026, with the poll scheduled by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for June 20, 2026.

Unveiled at the APC National Secretariat in Buhari House, Abuja, the campaign council comprises an array of senior party figures, state governors, cabinet ministers, federal legislators, and influential political stakeholders nationwide. A document bearing the signature of the APC National Secretary, Senator Surajudeen Ajibola Basiru, also names Senate President Godswill Akpabio as the council’s Vice Chairman.

Further notable appointees include Speaker of the House of Representatives Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas; Chief of Staff to the President Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila; Governors Hope Uzodimma, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, Babagana Zulum, Dapo Abiodun, Ahmed Aliyu, Mohammed Umaru Bago, and Lucky Aiyedatiwa; as well as former Governors Kayode Fayemi and Yahaya Bello. Cabinet members Dele Alake, Sunday Dare, and Bunmi Tunji-Ojo have also been listed as council members.

To streamline campaign operations, the APC has constituted specialized sub-committees covering Election Planning and Management, Finance and Resource Mobilisation, Media and Publicity, Security, and Women and Youth Mobilisation. The make-up of the campaign team underscores the high priority the ruling party places on the Ekiti governorship contest and signals strong confidence in Governor Uba Sani’s leadership abilities and political network.

The Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) has expressed its approval of the recent report from the United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF), emphasizing its dedication to peace and rejection of all violent acts within Nigeria.

In a statement signed by its National President, Baba Othman Ngelzarma, MACBAN welcomed the report, which was released on May 8, 2026. The association particularly praised the report for making a clear distinction between criminal elements and the millions of peaceful Fulani individuals living across the country.

MACBAN reiterated its status as a legitimate organization representing pastoralists, with a focus on fostering peace, national unity, and protecting lives and property. The group condemned attacks on communities and places of worship, stressing that criminal activities should not be attributed to any specific ethnic or religious group.

“Assaults on citizens during religious ceremonies or celebrations are unacceptable and go against human values and the laws of Nigeria,” the statement read.

The association further argued that criminal gangs operating in certain regions do not represent ordinary Fulani citizens. It pointed out that many Fulani herders themselves have been victims of cattle rustling, kidnappings, and violent attacks.

MACBAN pledged to continue collaborating with security agencies and traditional rulers to identify and apprehend criminals hiding in rural communities and forest areas. The group noted that its state and zonal branches have been urged to enhance information sharing with authorities to support security operations.

The association also cautioned against ethnic profiling and the blanket stigmatization of herders, warning that such actions could deepen divisions and undermine efforts toward peaceful coexistence. It called on politicians, media organizations, and local security groups to avoid narratives that could inflame ethnic tensions, especially as political activities ramp up ahead of the 2027 elections.

The kidnapped principal of a school in Oyo State, Mrs. Alamu, has issued a heartfelt plea through a newly released video, calling on the government, the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), and President Bola Tinubu to intervene urgently. In the footage, she describes the captives’ dire conditions, noting that teachers and students have endured extreme weather—both cold and heat—for weeks while in the hands of their abductors.

Mrs. Alamu also revealed that the kidnappers have grown increasingly restless and have threatened to kill one of the hostages following a previous rescue attempt that failed. She implored authorities and the public to help secure their release before matters escalate further.

“Please, help us. I am calling on the NUT to negotiate with them. Do not use force. All they need to do is talk and set us free. We are in the cold and under the sun. We are begging you,” she said in the video.

Background: On May 15, 2026, armed men abducted several pupils and teachers from the communities of Ahoro-Esinele and Yawota in Oriire Local Government Area, Oyo State. A similar abduction occurred around the same time in Askira-Uba Local Government Area, Borno State, resulting in over 40 students being taken. Tragically, one of the captives, teacher Michael Oyedokun, was reportedly killed by the kidnappers.

During his third anniversary address at Umuahia Township Stadium, Abia State Governor Alex Otti disclosed the extent of criminal domination his administration faced upon taking office. He stated that kidnappers, armed robbers, and other gangs had established camps in forests, from where they terrorized local residents, causing widespread fear and displacement.

Otti highlighted that through effective collaboration with security agencies, the state government successfully reclaimed these areas, restoring peace and order. He commended security heads and traditional rulers for their pivotal roles in this achievement and urged citizens to continue providing actionable intelligence to sustain the fight against crime.

In addition to security gains, Otti noted that his administration cleared 2,997 truckloads of refuse from the streets shortly after assuming power in 2023, mitigating environmental pollution and health risks. He also emphasized that civil servants and pensioners no longer face delays in receiving salaries and pensions, contrasting with past hardships.

Expressing gratitude for public support, the governor assured that state resources would be managed prudently and never squandered on frivolities. He called on Abians to remain vigilant and cooperate with authorities to maintain the improved security situation.

Benue State is experiencing a revival under his watch, Governor Hyacinth Alia asserted during the third anniversary of his administration. Speaking at a gathering in Makurdi on Friday, he described his tenure as a journey marked by bold decisions, sacrifice, and measurable progress.

Alia acknowledged the daunting challenges inherited upon assuming office in 2023, including widespread insecurity, crumbling infrastructure, unpaid salaries, pension arrears, weakened institutions, and eroded public trust. He noted that his government has worked tirelessly to reverse these setbacks.

The governor outlined significant strides in security, revealing that 150 Hilux vehicles and over 600 motorcycles have been deployed to support security agencies, especially in remote areas. He also highlighted the creation of the Civil Protection Guards and a joint security initiative called “Anyam Nyor” to bolster crime-fighting efforts. Alia thanked President Bola Tinubu for federal support, adding that many internally displaced persons are gradually returning to their communities.

On fiscal management, Alia said regular salary payments have been restored through prudent resource management and fiscal discipline. Pension reforms, he added, are restoring hope among retirees. “A motivated workforce is essential for productivity and efficient service,” he stated.

Infrastructure development has been a key focus, with over 50 intra-city roads completed and another 50 under construction. The governor also reported that about 370 kilometers of rural roads have been built, and the Makurdi and Gboko interchanges are finished, with the Otukpo interchange set to begin soon. A four-kilometer drainage channel alleviating flooding in Makurdi, along with 30 modern drainage systems statewide, were completed. The “Project Light-Up Makurdi” initiative has installed solar streetlights to enhance security and nighttime economic activity.

In education and health, Alia announced that more than 400 school buildings were renovated or newly constructed, and over 9,700 teachers and 500 health workers were employed. Upgrades at the Fr. Moses Orshio Adasu University Teaching Hospital in Makurdi are transforming it into a medical tourism destination.

Agricultural and industrial initiatives include a tractor assembly workshop that has trained over 200 youths. The $250 million National Food City Complex in Otukpo is progressing and expected to create more than 20,000 jobs. Additionally, the Food Basket Brewery and a fruit juice processing company have been established to spur industrial growth.

For technology and digital development, over 10,000 youths received digital skills training, and about 40,000 civil servants are undergoing training in e-governance and ICT. “One thing is undeniable—Benue is rising again. Hope has returned, and confidence in government is being restored,” Alia concluded, vowing to continue delivering democratic dividends.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has voiced strong support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as his administration reaches the three-year milestone, characterizing the government’s economic and infrastructure policies as essential moves for enduring national progress.

During a statement on Thursday celebrating Tinubu’s third year in office, Akpabio highlighted the President’s stewardship, contending that major policy moves and development projects under the Renewed Hope Agenda are starting to transform Nigeria’s economic landscape.

The Senate President referenced significant government initiatives such as the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway, the Nigerian Student Loan Scheme, the Renewed Hope Housing Programme, the introduction of CNG buses and conversion centers, tax reforms, and the finalization of the OB3 gas pipeline project as proof of the administration’s reform momentum.

According to Akpabio, even the most contentious decisions—like ending fuel subsidies and harmonizing foreign exchange rates—were tough yet essential actions aimed at building a more stable economic base.

He remarked that the boldness to tackle fuel subsidy removal, exchange rate unification, and infrastructure development despite global obstacles shows a leader dedicated to long-term prosperity rather than immediate gratification.

Akpabio also reiterated that the 10th National Assembly will continue to back the administration through legislation designed to maintain ongoing reforms.

Beyond praising the government’s accomplishments, the Senate President seemed to offer early political backing for Tinubu’s future electoral ambitions, expressing desire for the President to finish his term successfully and win upcoming elections.

This endorsement arrives amid ongoing discussions about the effects of the government’s economic policies. Supporters say the reforms are preparing the ground for future expansion, while detractors argue that increasing living costs and inflation have caused substantial suffering for many Nigerians.

Tinubu took office on May 29, 2023, and his administration’s economic reforms remain some of the most impactful and closely watched policy changes in Nigeria’s modern history.