Category: News

In a coordinated series of security operations, troops from Operation FANSAN YAMMA have successfully liberated 31 individuals who had been abducted and neutralized five suspected terrorists. The missions were carried out across Zamfara and Katsina states, underscoring the military’s intensified campaign against criminal elements in the region.

According to a statement released by Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba, the Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations for the 8 Division, the rescues occurred during a targeted operation near the Bagega–Kawaye corridor in Anka Local Government Area, Zamfara. The breakthrough was achieved through a combination of precision aerial strikes by the Air Component and a subsequent ground assault on militant strongholds located west of Bagega Forest.

The freed captives, who had been held for several weeks, originated from communities in Zamfara, Sokoto, and Kebbi states. Osoba confirmed that all rescued individuals have received necessary medical care and are being processed for reunification with their families.

In a separate engagement along the Maradun–Gidan Dan Jaja axis, troops confronted and killed two militants, dismantled multiple camps, and seized locally made rifles and four motorcycles believed to have been used by the assailants.

Further operations in Katsina State saw troops intercept a group of suspects near Ruwan Godiya and along Sayaya Road in Matazu Local Government Area, as they were reportedly preparing to launch an attack. During the clash, three militants were killed, and weapons and ammunition were recovered. One of the deceased was identified as a foot soldier affiliated with the notorious bandit leader Muhammad Fulani.

Osoba reiterated the commitment of Operation FANSAN YAMMA to maintaining relentless pressure on terrorist and criminal networks throughout the North-West, ensuring sustained offensive actions to restore peace and security.

In a bid to strengthen security operations across Niger State, Commissioner for Homeland Security, Barr. Morice Magaji, has announced a comprehensive framework designed to address deep-seated issues of public distrust and compromised intelligence. Speaking at a press conference in Minna on Friday, which marked the third anniversary of the current administration, Magaji highlighted the critical role of community confidence in ensuring effective security collaboration.

According to Magaji, one of the most pressing challenges has been the presence of informants who either leak sensitive information or betray their own communities, thereby undermining security efforts and eroding the public’s faith in the system. To counter this, the government has developed a structured approach aimed at rebuilding trust between citizens and security forces, with a strong emphasis on confidentiality and the protection of shared intelligence.

He stated: “We identified significant gaps, particularly in the level of trust within communities and in the flow of information. This necessitated the creation of a framework to restore the confidence of our people.” Magaji further assured residents that any intelligence provided would be handled with strict confidentiality, enabling security agencies to operate more effectively with reliable data.

Under the directive of Governor Mohammed Umar Bago, the state has shifted to a proactive security strategy, focusing on anticipating threats before they materialize. A standing security committee, composed of various relevant agencies, has been established and convenes regularly to evaluate challenges and coordinate responses across the state. Additionally, traditional institutions have been integrated into the security architecture as primary sources of grassroots intelligence.

Community advocacy efforts have also been intensified, encouraging locals to report unusual activities, such as the stockpiling of food items, fuel, or other supplies, which may indicate impending criminal operations. Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Mr. Obed Nana, noted that the briefing was part of efforts to highlight the administration’s achievements over the past three years, with a continued focus on sustainable growth, economic prosperity, and inclusive development. He urged journalists to maintain objectivity in their reporting to foster peace and unity.

The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has officially selected Senator Kabiru Marafa as its flagbearer for the governorship race in Zamfara State, setting the stage for the 2027 elections. This decision was reached through a consensus arrangement during a gathering in Gusau, the state capital, as confirmed by Aminu Jelani, the chairman of the party’s electoral committee.

In his acceptance remarks, Marafa expressed gratitude to party supporters for their trust and vowed to deliver exemplary leadership if elected. He identified corruption as a major obstacle to progress in Zamfara and committed to fostering transparency and ensuring the efficient use of public resources.

Furthermore, Marafa outlined his vision for enhanced governance, improved living conditions for citizens, and equitable opportunities for all residents across the state. The former senator recently joined the NDC after departing from the African Democratic Congress (ADC), a transition that was publicly acknowledged by party leader Seriake Dickson.

According to an official statement from the NDC, Marafa has pledged to contribute to strengthening the party’s presence and spearheading its activities in Zamfara State.

The Young Progressives Party has officially affirmed Wafarninyi Theman Dalatu, a former secretary of the APC in Adamawa State, as its candidate for the upcoming governorship election. The affirmation took place during a physical delegate count at Bridgewood Hotel in Jimeta, Yola, on Friday, where accredited members from all 21 local government areas lined up to endorse Dalatu as the sole aspirant.

Vidiyeno Bamaiyi, the YPP National Secretary, who oversaw the process alongside other party officials, declared Dalatu the party’s governorship flagbearer. He urged Dalatu to strengthen the party and work toward the success of its candidates in the 2027 general elections.

In his acceptance remarks, Dalatu shared his vision to reverse Adamawa’s poverty index and drive widespread economic prosperity. A trained pharmacist, he served as APC secretary in Adamawa from 2019 to 2023 and previously contested the APC governorship primary in 2023. He also served as a member of the state House of Assembly representing Hong constituency from 2011 to 2015.

In a recent statement, former APC National Chairman Abdullahi Umar Ganduje has responded to comments made by Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso by asserting that Kwankwaso was once under his political tutelage. The remarks were made through Ganduje’s chief of staff, Comrade Muhammad Garba, while Ganduje is in Saudi Arabia for the Hajj pilgrimage.

Ganduje emphasized that politics thrives on relationships, mentorship, and mutual support, pointing out that every successful politician has received help from others along the way. He claimed to have played a pivotal role in Kwankwaso’s early political career, particularly during his election to the House of Representatives and his subsequent rise to Deputy Speaker.

“I have every right to say Kwankwaso was once my political boy because I supported him and helped him attain important positions,” Ganduje was quoted as saying. He further noted that before that period, when he worked in both Abuja and Kano, Kwankwaso often visited his offices to discuss political matters.

The former governor urged politicians to avoid labels like “godfather” and “political son,” arguing that the focus should be on leadership quality and development of the people. He also recalled the 1998 political developments in Kano, where he won the governorship primary but stepped down for unity, agreeing to serve as Kwankwaso’s deputy.

Despite later political differences, Ganduje acknowledged that he and Kwankwaso collaborated between 1999 and 2003, and again from 2011 to 2015, for the progress of Kano State. Regarding Abba Kabir Yusuf, Ganduje stated that although Yusuf once served under him, he is now the elected governor of Kano and deserves respect for his office.

Ganduje called on politicians and their supporters in Kano to avoid remarks that could deepen divisions, urging a focus on peace and unity in the state.

The faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) led by Tanimu Turaki has declared that it will not bow to any form of intimidation as it gears up for the general elections slated for the following year. This firm stance was communicated through a statement released by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Ini Ememongob, on Friday.

Ememongob disclosed that the party had been alerted by the management of A Class Event Centre regarding a threat from Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory. According to the report, Wike allegedly warned that the business premises would be shut down if the PDP were permitted to hold its presidential candidate ratification ceremony there.

The statement emphasized, We make it clear, and for the record, that we have fully paid for the venue to finalize the earlier agreement. Moreover, we have officially informed all relevant security agencies about the event. Our legal team has been instructed to write to A Class Event Centre, reminding them of these facts. Having met these conditions, we affirm that the special convention to confirm the presidential candidacy of President Goodluck Jonathan will proceed as planned on Saturday, 30th May 2026, at A Class Event Centre, Wuse 2, Abuja, starting at 10 a.m.

We are confident that Nigeria operates under the rule of law. Any attempt to employ force to stifle political dissent and opposition represents a deviation from democratic norms and must be opposed by all individuals of good conscience. The statement further argued that there is no legal provision granting the Minister of the FCT the authority to decide which events can take place and where. Such unchecked powers are alien to a democratic republic and would only be fitting under an emperor—a label that President Tinubu has been striving to avoid.

We extend an invitation to party leaders from across the states, members of the National Executive Committee, and other key stakeholders to attend the event as scheduled, the statement concluded.

A disciplinary panel of a faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Lagos State has imposed a suspension on former Deputy National Chairman, Bode George, along with 23 other party members. The decision stems from what the panel described as actions detrimental to the party’s unity and interests.

The panel, led by Elder Kayode Ogunbiyi and Secretary Barrister Desmond Agbo, announced the suspension in a statement released on Friday. It explained that the action was taken after a thorough review of petitions alleging anti-party conduct and breaches of the PDP constitution.

During a meeting held on May 26, 2026, the committee examined several petitions against party leaders and members. It also revisited a prior disciplinary ruling by the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) against Bode George, affirming that his earlier suspension remains in effect.

The statement noted that cases involving members accused of defecting to other political parties or engaging in unauthorized collaborations against the PDP were also considered. Among those suspended are Chief (Mrs.) Aduke Maina, Dr. Abimbola Ogunkelu, Mr. Laja Adeoye, Capt. Tunji Shele, Chief Sunday Olaifa, Mr. Gbenga Adegbesan, Hon. Rita Orji, H.E. Mrs. Kofoworola Bucknor, Chief (Mrs) Onikepo-Oshodi, and Mrs. Idera Sodipo.

Others affected include Prince Adedipe Dauda Ewenla, Hon. Bode Ogundipe, Hon. Aminu Suleiman, Dr. (Mrs.) Roli George, Dr. Adetokunbo Pearse, Mr. Adeyemi Moyegun, Chief Taiwo Kuye, Mrs. Coker, Hon. Setonji Koshoedo, Alhaji Muritala Ashorobi, Mr. Dare, Dr. Amos Alabi Fawole, and Hon. Olumuyiwa Owodara Richard.

The committee declared that all suspended members are barred from participating in any PDP activities in Lagos State and cannot represent the party in any capacity. It further warned that legal action may be taken against any of the suspended individuals who continue to act contrary to the party’s interests.

“Our committee has recommended strict legal procedures be instituted against any of the suspended persons who continue to act contrary to the interests of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Lagos State,” the statement added.

The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) primary election in Enugu State has been marred by controversy, with several aspirants crying foul over alleged manipulation. The exercise, which began earlier today under the faction led by Ibuchukwu Obetta, has been plagued by delays and accusations of irregularities.

At various polling stations across the state, candidates reported that no party officials showed up for hours, leaving them waiting indefinitely. Social media has been flooded with videos showing frustrated supporters gathered at empty venues, demanding answers.

Some contestants have already declared themselves winners without official confirmation. One of the aggrieved aspirants, Obeta Davidwilliams, announced his withdrawal from the process, citing what he described as widespread tampering. He stated, “The level of malpractice and manipulation currently unfolding within the NDC is among the most disturbing political spectacles I have witnessed in recent times.”

In another incident, Mr. Mathias Ezeaku, who is vying for the ticket in Igbo-Etiti/Uzo-Uwani Federal Constituency, claimed victory but alleged that a party official absconded with the result sheet. In a viral video, he said, “I won the primary election for the Federal House of Reps in Uzo-Uwani and also in Igbo-Etiti, but when the party official was about to write the result, Prof Abukue ran away with the sheet.” His supporters responded with chants of “we no go gree o” and “winner oooo”.

Further allegations have emerged that former Enugu State Governor Dr. Okwesilieze Nwodo submitted a list of preferred candidates to the party. The purported list includes retired Permanent Secretary Chinyeaka Oha for governorship, Princess Ada Ogbu for Enugu East Senatorial seat, Bishop Oscar Osai for Enugu North Senate, and Barr. O. A. U. Onyema for Enugu East. Former Reps member Pat Asadu was reportedly not favored. Other names on the list are Dr. John Nwokeabia, Barr. Agubuzu, Barr. Fide Ani, and Dr. Clinton Ide, while Ikembuchukwu Nwodo and Uche Aneke were allegedly dropped.

As of this report, the Obetta faction has yet to announce any official winners from the exercise.

The National Rescue Mission (NRM) has officially selected Dr. Esther Nkem Okereke as its flagbearer for the 2027 presidential election. The decision was reached through a consensus arrangement facilitated by top party leadership.

Prince Dr. Chinedu Obi, the National Chairman of the NRM, expressed optimism that Nigeria can be rescued and transformed into a prosperous nation. He highlighted the country’s abundant mineral wealth, fertile agricultural lands, advantageous geographic location, dynamic youth population, entrepreneurial spirit, and rich human capital as key assets.

Obi lamented that despite these advantages, a significant number of Nigerians remain trapped in poverty. He described the situation as a paradox where a resource-rich nation has produced widespread poverty, but expressed confidence in Okereke’s ability to restore the country’s former glory.

He stated, “For years, global reports have consistently labeled Nigeria the poverty capital of the world—a title no nation should accept. Under our leadership, we will overhaul education by raising standards, expanding access, and strengthening technical and vocational training. We will also invest in research and innovation to equip our youth for a competitive global economy.”

On healthcare, Obi added, “We will prioritize primary healthcare systems, expand health insurance coverage, invest in medical personnel, and ensure quality healthcare becomes a right, not a privilege.”

In her acceptance remarks, Okereke emphasized that future generations will remember this moment as a turning point when ordinary citizens chose courage over fear, unity over division, hope over cynicism, and progress over stagnation. She said, “When Nigeria stood at the brink of despair, a courageous people arose with faith and determination to rescue their nation.”

Okereke explained her deliberate choice of the NRM, a party founded to address systemic governance failures in Nigeria. She noted that the party’s core ideology of “rescue” is not a mere slogan but a urgent intervention to pull the country back from institutional collapse, economic decline, and widespread insecurity caused by years of poor governance.

She described the NRM as a generational vanguard that mobilizes youth, champions ethical leadership, and advocates for structural reforms to transition Nigeria from a survival state to sustainable development. “The NRM’s ideology aligns perfectly with my vision and mission, which is why I accepted the candidature to partner in achieving the ‘Rescue Nigeria’ project,” she added.

The faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) loyal to Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, has publicly dismissed claims that it intends to back former President Goodluck Jonathan as its presidential candidate for the 2027 elections.

In a statement released on Friday, the faction’s National Publicity Secretary, Jungudo Mohammed, labeled the reports as false, misleading, and unauthorized, urging security agencies to probe their origin and prosecute those responsible for what he described as an attempt to incite political tension and harm the party’s reputation.

This denial comes after the Interim National Working Committee, led by Tanimu Turaki, announced plans for a convention in Abuja on Saturday to formally endorse Jonathan as the party’s flagbearer for the upcoming presidential race. However, the Wike-aligned faction has clarified that it already has a candidate: Senator Sandy Onor, who was screened, cleared, and officially presented as its presidential contender earlier last week.

In its response, the faction called on Jonathan to publicly distance himself from what it termed an unauthorized move, to protect both the integrity of the democratic process and his personal reputation. The group emphasized that all primary elections, including presidential primaries, have been completed in line with INEC guidelines and the party’s constitution, and that no convention or process has been approved to alter those outcomes.