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Former Bayelsa State governor, Seriake Dickson, has called for the removal of the ruling All Progressives Congress in the 2027 general elections, arguing that the party has failed to deliver on its core promises to Nigerians.


Speaking during an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today, the senator representing Bayelsa West maintained that the country has witnessed a steady decline since the APC assumed power in 2015. He contended that the party came into office without a clear governance blueprint.


“They gathered together for the sake of removing the PDP and President Jonathan, and look at where we are; they brought in Buhari. No one asks, ‘What are you gathering for when you win power?’ They said, ‘Change,’” Dickson said.


Reflecting on the APC’s campaign message at the time, he argued that the promised “change” has not translated into tangible improvements. “Change can be both ways; you can change from bad to worse, as the APC has done,” he added, insisting that conditions across key sectors have deteriorated.


He further criticised the government’s handling of corruption, insecurity and the economy, noting that financial scandals are now discussed in staggering figures.


“If you say that PDP was bad, whether it is corruption, whether it is insecurity, now corruption, you can’t even mention anything. People talk now, calculate monies now in trillions,” he stated.


According to him, the APC has also struggled to strengthen democratic values and manage Nigeria’s diversity effectively, raising broader concerns about governance and national cohesion.


Dickson’s remarks add to growing political debate ahead of the 2027 elections, as opposition figures intensify criticism of the ruling party and seek to reposition themselves for the next electoral cycle.


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As preparations intensify for the forthcoming National Convention of the All Progressives Congress (APC) scheduled for 27th and 28th March, a leading aspirant for the House of Representatives in Okitipupa/Irele Federal Constituency, High Chief Dele Omosehin (DO), has publicly declared his support for the emergence and continuity of Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, Dr. Ajibola Basiru, and Hon. Isaacs Kekemeke in key leadership positions within the party.

In a statement issued ahead of the convention, Omosehin described the trio as experienced party men whose commitment, administrative capacity, and understanding of the APC’s progressive ideals are essential for strengthening internal cohesion and sustaining the party’s winning momentum across the country.

He noted that as the APC continues to consolidate its leadership at both national and state levels, the need for tested and visionary leaders becomes even more critical.

According to him, “The stability and growth of our great party depend on continuity, unity of purpose, and the ability to build on existing structures. Prof. Yilwatda, Dr. Basiru, and Hon. Kekemeke have demonstrated loyalty, competence, and a deep understanding of the party’s mission. Supporting their leadership at this time will further position the APC for greater success.”

Omosehin further called on delegates, stakeholders, and party faithful across the federation to approach the convention with a spirit of unity, maturity, and commitment to the collective interest of the party.

He emphasized that the convention presents an opportunity to reinforce internal democracy, strengthen party structures, and align leadership towards delivering more dividends of democracy to Nigerians.

Reaffirming his dedication to the growth of the APC, Omosehin expressed confidence that the convention would usher in renewed energy, stability, and strategic direction for the party ahead of future electoral engagements.

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A 24-year-old drug dealer, Chukwuemeka Michael Ahanonu, was on Tuesday sentenced to life in prison with a minimum term of 21 years and six months after a jury convicted him of murdering 56-year-old mother, Nila Patel in a random street attack in Leicester, United Kingdom last year.


Ahanonu, originally from Peckham in south-east London, crashed his car near Leicester Royal Infirmary on the afternoon of Tuesday, June 24, 2025, after driving dangerously through the city centre, swerving between lanes and ignoring traffic signals.


CCTV footage released by police showed the vehicle overturning.


Ahanonu, who was living on Dover Street in Leicester, then ran from the scene and launched an unprovoked assault on Patel, a complete stranger who was walking home after getting off a bus.


Witnesses and footage captured Ahanonu punching, kicking and stamping on Patel “with full force,” inflicting a fractured skull and catastrophic brain injuries.


The mother of two was left unconscious and died in hospital two days later on June 26, 2025.


Leicester Crown Court heard that Ahanonu, who was on licence from a previous 24-month prison sentence for offences including possession of a bladed article, had pleaded guilty to manslaughter on the grounds of diminished responsibility, as well as dangerous driving, possession of cannabis with intent to supply and assaulting an emergency worker.


He denied murder, claiming he had no memory of the attack beyond the car crash, but a jury convicted him of murder after a month-long trial on Monday.


Passing sentence, Judge Timothy Spencer KC told Ahanonu: “You murdered a wholly innocent woman. It was shocking, brutal and merciless.”


The judge said Ahanonu had been angry and actively looking for a victim, selecting 5ft 4in Patel because of her gender, slight build and height, and that her race was also a factor.


He added that he was satisfied Ahanonu retained “much more memory of this attack than you have ever had the courage to admit.”


In police interviews, Ahanonu laughed when shown footage of the assault.


When asked why, he replied: “If I don’t laugh, I’ll cry.”


He later expressed “sincere apologies” through his counsel.


Patel’s children, Jaidan and Danika, said in a statement, “Nine months ago today you murdered our mother. The pain of losing her in this way is impossible to accept.”


Danika added, “My mum was the most important person in my life. Losing her in such a violent and senseless way has shattered my world.”


They described her as having “so much life ahead of her.”


Detectives from Leicestershire Police described the attack as “the most horrific, violent and random attack.”


Senior Investigating Officer Detective Inspector Emma Matts said Ahanonu was unknown to Patel and had run from the crash scene before targeting her.


The convict was remanded in custody immediately after sentencing.


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The Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction,  Dr Bernard Doro, has inaugurated the “One Humanitarian-One Poverty Response System (OHOPRS)” aimed at lifting 50 million Nigerians out of poverty by 2030.


Doro unveiled the initiative at a National Technical Workshop for stakeholders in the humanitarian sector at the UN House on Tuesday in Abuja.


The minister explained that the OHOPRS was a unified national architecture for ending poverty in Nigeria, adding that over 63 per cent of Nigerians faced multidimensional poverty.


He itemised the challenges facing the humanitarian activities as structural gap-chronic fragmentation across MDAs, states, and local governments, visibility crisis, and coordination conflict.


“Others include Siloed Data, uncoordinated beneficiary registers, inefficient funding, duplicated efforts that fail to reach the last mile, fragmentation, lack of synergy, limited social proof/impact, stagnation and lack of a unified “Poverty Exit” pathway.


“We have been managing poverty, not ending it. It is time for a paradigm shift.


“To end poverty, Nigeria does not lack interventions, but lacks the systems to facilitate the effective actualisation of the interventions.”


According to him, OHOPRS is the new national backbone designed to merge and integrate humanitarian relief, long-term development, and social protection.


He noted that the system also aligned MDAs, state governments, and development partners, but lacked individuals from vulnerability to support, exit and growth.


“There is a clear national direction on the OHOPRS; President Bola Tinubu ‘s vision is uncompromising. The mandate is to lift 50 million Nigerians out of poverty by 2030.


“Also, to implement real-time, digital accountability, re-establish government-led coordination and align every stakeholder to a single national system.


“Meanwhile, the core principles are one system, one register and one pathway; one National Data Backbone: the “Single Source of Truth.”


“One Unified Beneficiary System: No more ‘double-dipping’ or exclusions, one Poverty Exit Pathway: A structured roadmap to self-reliance and one National Coordination Platform: Total alignment of all actors,” Doro said.


He further explained the OHOPRS’ architecture, poverty exit pathway, poverty intelligence lab, data-driven governance, evolution of the response, roles and responsibilities, expected national impact, and operationalisation of the vision.


“OHOPRS is more than a reform; it is Nigeria’s blueprint for lifting our people from poverty to prosperity.


“The focus is shifting from the ‘poverty line’ to the ‘prosperity ladder’. Yesterday, we managed the challenge. Today, we architect the end,” Doro said.


Also, the Minister of State, Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction,  Dr Tanko Sununu, said the OHOPRS aimed to synergise efforts across various sectors and agencies to ensure a coordinated response.


“When we have one response plan, it means we are going to have a way that everyone can put effort together, so that we can have a proper plan, execution, tracing, tracking, and then measurement of internal outcomes.


“By allowing humanitarian aid with long-term development goals, the programme can address the immediate survival needs while also focusing on sustainable social mobility,” Sununu said.


The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports the organisations in attendance include the International NGO Forum, European Union,  UNOCHA, IOM, UNICEF, ECHO, World Bank and other stakeholders from the subnational.


The organisations in attendance pledged their commitment and support to the successful implementation of the OHOPRS initiated by the Humanitarian Affairs Ministry. (NAN)

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World Bank has identified lack of coordination as a factor affecting the fight against multidimensional poverty ravaging the country.


Nigeria’s Country Director  Bank, Lire Ersado, disclosed this yesterday at the launch of One Humanitarian–One Poverty Response System (OHOPRS) in Abuja.


He noted that instead of Nigerians to reinforce each other, government officials sometimes clash because of the parallel systems it is running.


“I have come to realize why a lot of efforts that go into poverty reduction are not having the kind of impact we would like to see.


“The first reason is lack of coordination in my view. We are not well coordinated in the humanitarian development nexus. We run a parallel system in silos in terms of identifying the needy, in terms of targeting them, in terms of benefit design, in principle monitoring.


“We are not talking to each other as much as we should. As a result, our efficiency, our impact is not the level it should be.


“Instead of reinforcing each other, you will see some clashes because we are running parallel systems that are not talking to each other.”


Ersado said the system the minister is putting together would help in reducing poverty.


According to him, Nigeria had one of the most sophisticated social protection systems with one of the largest social registries in the world, adding that it is the largest in Africa, which comprises over 90 million households.


He added that about 40 percent of the Nigerian families are in the social registries, saying Nigeria also has one of the highly advanced digital delivery systems.


“Most of the major flagship cash transfer or other social safety programs are externally financed.


“We don’t want Nigeria to be in this very inefficient equilibrium. We want Nigeria to lead Africa, to have a national flagship social protection program, which would connect both the humanitarian needs as well as the development needs of this country.


“So adaptive social protection system, which is anchored through maybe a strong cash transfer programme or any other program, but it has a large social registry, very well elaborated digital payment system with a highly advanced national identity system, which we can pinpoint the beneficiary,” he added.


Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Bernard Doro, concurred with the challenges listed by the World Bank, but noted that Nigeria was working to address the challenges.


To stem the tide, he unveiled the One Humanitarian–One Poverty Response System (OHOPRS) to address poverty, by lifting 50 million Nigerians out of poverty.


He described the initiative as a transformative national framework designed to move millions of Nigerians from poverty to prosperity.


Doro revealed that more than 63 percent of Nigerians live in multidimensional poverty, stating that the country’s challenge lies in weak coordination and inefficiencies. “We have been managing poverty, not ending it. It is time for a paradigm shift.”


The minister noted that fragmented data systems, duplication of programmes and poor coordination among ministries, departments, agencies, and development partners have long undermined poverty reduction efforts.


Also, he explained that the new framework would integrate humanitarian aid, social protection, and long-term development into a single coordinated platform, ensuring all stakeholders operate within one national structure.


The minister warned that rising economic pressures, climate-related challenges, and shrinking global aid would make it imperative for Nigeria to adopt a more efficient and unified response.

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The Presidency has cautioned Senator Ali Ndume against making sweeping claims about terrorism on television, urging him instead to channel any credible intelligence to relevant security agencies for action.


Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, gave the advice on Tuesday while reacting to Ndume’s recent appearance on Channels Television, where the lawmaker alleged that terrorists operate with informants embedded within Nigerian communities.


Onanuga said any actionable intelligence regarding terrorist activities, informants, or planned attacks should be shared directly with the Chief of Defence Staff, the National Security Adviser, and other intelligence bodies.


“If Senator Ndume has credible intelligence beyond what security agencies already know, the appropriate step is to share it with with the Chief of Defence Staff, the National Security Adviser, or relevant intelligence bodies, not to discuss it on television,” Onanuga said, stressing that such information requires confidential handling to enable effective operational response.


Ndume, who represents Borno South, had claimed that insurgents use commercial tricycles, popularly known as Keke NAPEP, to transport explosives and rely on informants within local communities to coordinate attacks.


“What they do is hit and run. They gather, share information among themselves, and most dangerously, they get information from some citizens, too. They have informants within society,” the senator had stated.


He also criticised the government’s response, arguing that security agencies lack adequate training, equipment, ammunition, and motivation.


“The government, I must say, are not walking the talk. Security agencies and soldiers still do not have the training, equipment, ammunition, and motivation they need.”


However, Onanuga defended the administration of Bola Tinubu, noting that the government has taken significant steps to strengthen national security.


He cited increased defence spending in the 2026 Appropriation Bill, acquisition of military hardware from France and the United Kingdom, and the directive for security chiefs to relocate to Maiduguri following recent attacks.


“The President has demonstrated commitment by approving the highest budgetary allocation to defence in the 2026 Appropriation Bill, securing military equipment from France and the United Kingdom, and directing security chiefs to relocate to Maiduguri,” Onanuga stated.


He added that while public commentary on security matters is legitimate, disclosing specific operational details in the media could be counterproductive.


The Presidency’s remarks come amid intensified military operations in Borno State after the March 16 suicide bombings in Maiduguri that left 23 people dead and over 100 injured, prompting renewed efforts to combat insurgency in the North-East.


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President Bola Tinubu has formally received Gov. Dauda Lawal into the APC and assured the people of Zamfara and the North West Region of renewed measures to end insecurity and banditry in the region.


The president gave the assurance in Gusau, Zamfara, while formally receiving Gov. Dauda Lawal into the All Progressives Congress (APC) on Tuesday.


Lawal, who was elected on the platform of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), had earlier announced his decision to join the APC, citing the unresolved crisis in the opposition party.


Tinubu, who was represented by the Vice President, Kassim Shettima, addressed a mammoth crowd of supporters at the Gusau International Trade Fair complex, Gusau.


The president commiserated with all victims of banditry and kidnapping that had bedevilled the region for decades.


He said that the federal and state governments would reinforce military and other security measures to end the menace in the region.


According to him, Lawal’s joining the ruling APC would enhance coordination and support for security agencies to end banditry in Zamfara, in particular, and the region in general.


He commended Lawal for joining the APC, describing the move as a wise decision.


“Let me emphasise the federal government’s commitment to restoring law and order in all parts of the region,” he said.


He commended the former governors of the state, Sen. Ahmed Yerima, Alhaji Mahmuda Shinkafi, Sen. Abdulaziz Yari (Zamfara West), and Dr Bello Matawalle, Minister of State Defense, for accepting to support Gov. Lawal in the efforts to end banditry in the state.


The president assured supporters of the APC’s victory in the 2027 general elections with the unity among top party leaders and supporters in the state.


Shettima had arrived at the Gusau International Trade Fair, venue of the reception, to receive Gov Dauda Lawal of Zamfara into the All Progressives Congress (APC) at 4 p.m.


He was accompanied by the Deputy Senate President, Sen. Barau Jibrin, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Dr Tajjudeen Abbas, Chairman of APC Governors Forum, Gov. Hope Uzodima, and the Governor of Imo State, among other APC governors.


The APC National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, handed the APC flag to Gov Lawal and promised him the party’s support in all areas of need. (NAN)


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The Minister of Power, Mr Adebayo Adelabu, assured on Tuesday that power supply would improve within two weeks and apologised to Nigerians for the current epileptic power situation in the country.


Adelabu gave the assurance while briefing newsmen in Abuja on the state of the power sector since he assumed office in October 2023.


“With the committee we have set up, the feedback from gas suppliers, and the timeline for repairing the gas pipelines, i can say that within two weeks we should start seeing improvements in power supply.


“Once the gas line repairs, particularly the one from Seplat, are completed and the committee ensures that gas companies meet their domestic supply obligations to power plants, timely payments will encourage gas suppliers and lead to improved power supply in the country,” he said.


Adelabu also appealed to Nigerians for patience regarding the temporary challenges currently being experienced in the power sector, adding that the ministry was doing everything possible to address the issue.


“We want to apologise to Nigerians for this temporary problem, which is causing hardship, especially during this dry season when the heat is intense and businesses, schools, and homes are being affected,” he said.


He attributed the challenge to a shortage of gas supply to power plants, noting that 75 per cent of power plants relied on gas.


According to him, 25 per cent of power generation comes from hydro, and without a gas supply, generation companies are unable to operate, leaving turbines idle.


“It is not our wish to find ourselves in this situation, but there are factors beyond our control.


” We are not relenting. We are working around the clock to return to the trajectory we achieved in 2025, when we were commended for a job well done.


“If we were able to provide such service in 2025, then in 2026, we are determined to do even more and do better,” he said.


The minister added that in the coming weeks, power generation would improve, with a target of 6,000 megawatts of electricity expected before the end of 2026.


Adelabu also revealed that the sector had recorded over three billion dollars in private sector investments over the past two years.


According to him, the sector also has a comprehensive, integrated policy on electricity, accompanied by a strategic implementation framework to guide every stakeholder and actor in the sector.


“Whether it is the government, sub-national entities, or the private sector, both local and international, there is now a document they can refer to.


“This document clearly outlines what is expected of each player, their responsibilities, and their limitations,” he said.(NAN)


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Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has directed all political appointees intending to contest in the 2027 general elections to resign their appointments in line with the provisions of the Electoral Act.


This was contained in a statement signed by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, on Wednesday.


According to reports, the directive was conveyed in an official circular issued by the Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Umar Farouk Ibrahim, emphasizing the need for strict compliance with laws governing the conduct of public officers.


The circular stated that the decision is in accordance with Section 88 (1) of the Electoral Act, 2026, which regulates the participation of public office holders in partisan political activities.


It added that the measure is aimed at upholding neutrality, accountability, and integrity within the public service, while ensuring a level playing ground for all aspirants.


According to the circular, political appointees who intend to contest in the forthcoming elections are required to resign or retire, as applicable, on or before Tuesday, 31st March, 2026.


All Ministries, Departments, and Agencies have been directed to give the circular the widest publicity and ensure full compliance.


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Former Senate Leader, Ali Ndume, has raised the alarm over renewed insurgent attacks in Borno State, warning that Nigerian troops were being outgunned by terrorists due to inadequate equipment.


Ndume, who represents Borno South Senatorial District, made the disclosure on Tuesday while speaking with journalists in Abuja, following an assessment visit to affected communities.


The lawmaker had, over the weekend, visited Ngoshe and Pulka alongside the Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, to evaluate the level of destruction caused by the attacks.


Findings revealed that fighters from Boko Haram, in collaboration with Islamic State West Africa Province, carried out coordinated assaults on Ngoshe in Gwoza Local Government Area, killing several soldiers, the village head, and community elders, including a woman. A number of women and children were also abducted during the raid.


Although the Nigerian Army has since regained control of the affected communities, Ndume expressed grave concern that the troops were initially overwhelmed by the superior firepower of the insurgents.


“I am calling on the federal government to double its efforts in equipping the Army with sophisticated arms and ammunition,” he said.

“I gathered that our soldiers lack adequate ammunition and had to withdraw from Ngoshe and Pulka because the terrorists overwhelmed them. It was days after reinforcement that they regained the area. Nothing was left standing in Ngoshe and Pulka.”


Describing the scale of destruction, Ndume said the communities had been reduced to rubble, with barely any structure left intact.


“I have visited Ngoshe; it is something you cannot fully describe unless you have seen it. It has been brought down to ground zero. The destruction is complete. There is nothing left standing except one small mosque,” he said.


The senator commended Governor Zulum for personally visiting the affected areas and spending a night in Pulka, noting that the gesture had significant psychological impact on displaced residents.


He also called on the federal government to urgently support the Borno State Government in rebuilding the devastated communities and providing relief to displaced persons currently taking refuge in Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps.


“The people are resilient. I interacted with them, and many are determined to return home rather than relocate to cities. Since they have that determination, the government must act swiftly to rebuild the communities,” he added.


Ndume further disclosed plans to raise the matter at the National Assembly, hinting at a possible motion to galvanise legislative intervention, even as he urged immediate executive action to address the humanitarian and security crisis.

“I will engage my colleagues in both chambers of the National Assembly. We will take necessary steps, but we expect the federal government to intervene without delay,” he said.


While commending the Nigerian Army for eventually reclaiming the affected communities, Ndume insisted that sustained support, improved weaponry, and strategic reinforcement remain critical to preventing future occurrences.

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Drama unfolded at the Federal High Court in Abuja when activist Omoyele Sowore, clashed with a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, SAN, while attempting to address journalists inside the courtroom.


A video circulating online shows the lawyer confronting Sowore, saying that the courtroom was not a proper setting for a press briefing.


Sowore disagreed with the lawyer’s position, saying, “You’re intimidating me and insulting my intelligence because you’re introducing yourself to me as a SAN. I also have my own SANs.”


“I have practised for close to three decades and have never seen this happen,” the lawyer said while urging the journalists to move the interview outside the court premises.


“The court must serve as a venue of justice, not a conference,” the lawyer added.


 

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Minister of Works, Sen. David Umahi has revealed that President Bola Tinubu inherited very terrible debts of N13trn and over 268 projects across the country.


He said the President has been fixing the projects and the new ones.


Umahi stated this on Monday evening while inspecting some projects in South East including ongoing construction of Abakpa junction flyover, Enugu, Eke-Obinagu flyover, Enugu and the Enugu–Onitsha expressway.


He said before the President took over the mantle of leadership, drivers couldn’t drive through many roads for one hour without having challenge of bad road


The Minister said such challenges are becoming a history based following massive project construction across the country by the President.


“We inherited very terrible debts, over N13trn and over 268 projects as at May, 2023.


“You are aware that you can’t drive through any road for one hour in this without having challenge of bad road but that is becoming a history based on what the President is doing.


“We thank God almighty for the life of the President and I am happy that our people’s complaints about road challenges are becoming much less.


“Everything will not be completed over night but we are very committed, we are not distracted, we are carrying out the directive of Mr. President to ensure that the entire country is properly connected with roads and bridges”, he stated.


Umahi directed the reopening of 15-kilometre stretch of the Enugu–Onitsha expressway on or before 31st of this month for public use to ease transportation challenges and boost economic activities across the South East following its advanced stage.


According to him, the directive is part of the Federal Government’s commitment to providing immediate relief to road users while ensuring long-term infrastructure durability.


He noted that the Enugu–Onitsha and Enugu–Port Harcourt corridors are among the most strategic routes in the South East, historically plagued by traffic congestion, tanker accidents, and deteriorating pavement conditions.


He expressed optimism that ongoing reconstruction efforts would permanently reverse the trend.


Highlighting intergovernmental collaboration, Umahi commended Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, for supporting federal projects, particularly the Abakpa flyover project.


He disclosed that the Enugu state government contributed to compensation payments and facilitated the relocation of critical utilities, including high-tension power lines and water pipelines.


Project contractor of the Abakpa junction flyover, Engineer Chimalo Ezeugo, said piling works are ongoing, with 15 out of the required 40 piles already completed and additional ones in progress. The project is expected to span approximately 800 metres, with a delivery timeline of one year.


Ezeugo explained that the flyover would connect key routes within the Enugu-Abakpa axis and significantly improve traffic flow, particularly in high-density areas such as Trans-Ekulu and the Government Reserved Area (GRA).


Also speaking, Resident Engineer on the Enugu–Onitsha project, Engineer Lawrence Ubi, confirmed that the 15-kilometre section is about 95 per cent complete and structurally sound. He assured that the road meets required engineering standards and is ready for use.


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Nigeria’s assertion of progress towards energy self-sufficiency has come under fresh scrutiny, as the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Oil), Mr Heineken Lokpobiri, confirmed that the country still relies on imported petroleum products—directly contradicting claims that domestic refining can fully meet local demand.


Speaking on the state of the downstream sector at the CERAWeek by S&P Global Conference in Houston, Texas, Lokpobiri acknowledged that while local refining capacity has improved significantly, it remains insufficient to fully cover national consumption.


The minister’s position clarifies the current state of supply, despite rising expectations around increased local refining capacity.


The minister noted that Nigeria is making measurable progress, with domestic refining contributing a growing share of supply.


However, he stressed that imports remain a critical component of the country’s fuel supply mix for now.


“We are not yet at a point where local production alone can satisfy total consumption,” he said, underscoring the need to sustain imports while capacity continues to build.


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All is now set for the official groundbreaking ceremony of Dream City Estate, a flagship housing project by Abuja-based real estate firm, Toslad Group, as the company also marks a significant milestone with the opening of its new operational office in Lagos.

The high-profile event, scheduled to commence by 10 a.m. today, will take place at the project site located beside Coop-Villa Estate in Badore, Ajah, Lagos. 

It is expected to draw an array of distinguished guests, including key players in the housing sector, business leaders, entrepreneurs, and notable figures from the entertainment industry.

Dream City Estate, which sits on an expansive 25-hectare parcel of land, is designed to redefine modern living by combining affordability with contemporary infrastructure. 

The development is positioned to cater to the growing demand for structured residential communities within the Lagos metropolis, particularly along the fast-developing Ajah axis.

To commemorate the unveiling, the company has introduced exclusive incentives for prospective subscribers. Buyers who make payments on the day of the event will enjoy a 10 percent discount, while those who commit to part payments of 50 percent and above will receive a 5 percent discount, an initiative aimed at encouraging early investment and broadening access to property ownership.

Speaking ahead of the ceremony, the Managing Director of Toslad Group, Tosin Ladejobi, described the project as a bold step toward addressing Nigeria’s housing deficit while delivering value-driven developments.

According to him, “Dream City Estate is a product of our vision to provide not just houses, but a thriving community where comfort, security, and modern infrastructure are guaranteed. As we unveil this project and simultaneously establish our presence in Lagos, we are reinforcing our commitment to expanding access to quality real estate across key urban centres in Nigeria.”

He further noted that the Lagos office will serve as a strategic hub to deepen the company’s reach in the South-West region, enhance client engagement, and facilitate seamless service delivery.

“Our expansion into Lagos is deliberate. The city remains a critical real estate destination in Africa, and we are positioning Toslad Group to play a more active role in shaping its residential landscape,” Ladejobi added.

The unveiling ceremony is expected to feature a formal groundbreaking, site tour, stakeholder engagements, and networking sessions, marking the beginning of what industry observers describe as a promising addition to Lagos’ real estate ecosystem.

The media is powered by Abuja Powerhouse PR organization, AlexReports and team in Lagos.




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18 Osun Lawmakers Set to Dump Accord Party Amid Leadership Crisis, Court Battle

Fresh political uncertainty is brewing in Osun State as no fewer than 18 lawmakers of the State House of Assembly are reportedly set to dump the Accord Party, barely months after defecting from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

According to a release signed by Yusuf Adegboye,the Secretary of the Accord Libration Movement of Osun Accord party, The planned exit, according to multiple party sources, is being driven by growing discontent over the party’s internal instability, particularly the unresolved leadership crisis currently before the court. The lingering legal battle over who controls the party structure has reportedly created confusion and weakened confidence among key stakeholders.

Insiders revealed that the lawmakers, who had initially moved to Accord in what was seen as a strategic political realignment, are now reconsidering their positions amid fears that the party may not provide the stable platform required for their political survival.

A source familiar with the development said the situation within the party has become increasingly untenable. “There is no clear leadership direction at the moment. The issue of who is in charge is still in court, and that uncertainty is affecting everyone,” the source said.

The crisis was further compounded by the resignation of Hon. Adesina Atanda Rabiu, the lawmaker representing Iwo State Constituency, whose exit is widely viewed as a signal of deeper cracks within the party. Observers believe his departure may have emboldened other aggrieved members to consider leaving.

Another party insider suggested that the lawmakers’ loyalty to the platform has been significantly shaken. “They came into Accord expecting a cohesive structure, but what they met is a party battling itself in court. That is not the kind of environment politicians want to operate in, especially with elections around the corner,” the source alleged.

Political analysts warn that the potential mass exit could significantly weaken the Accord Party’s presence in Osun and disrupt ongoing political calculations in the state. The development is also seen as having possible implications for Governor Ademola Adeleke, amid speculations of political alignments involving the party.

It was gathered that bearing any last minute change, members representing : Olorunda

, Ifelodun, Ifedayo, Ila, Ife South, Ife East, Aiyedire, Olaoluwa, Ayedaade, Ilesa East, Osogbo, Ede South, Orolu/Irepodun, Ife Central and Egbedore could be on their way out of the Accord party.

“The instability within Accord could ripple into broader political dynamics in Osun,” an analyst noted. “If the lawmakers eventually leave, it will diminish the party’s influence and could affect alliances tied to the upcoming election.”

With the court yet to resolve the leadership dispute, uncertainty continues to hang over the party’s future, leaving members and stakeholders in a state of apprehension as the political landscape ahead of 2027 begins to take shape.



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The All Progressives Congress (APC) has constituted a high-level Screening Committee ahead of its forthcoming national convention, appointing former Abia State Governor and Senator representing Abia North Senatorial zone Senator, Orji Uzor Kalu as TEAM B Chairman, alongside Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, who will also play a chairman role in TEAM A of the exercise.


Senator Kalu’s committee is designed to ensure a transparent, credible, and seamless screening of aspirants contesting for various party positions. Serving as Vice Chairman is former Ogun State Governor and Senator, Gbenga Daniel, while Sarafa Alli will function as Secretary.


Other prominent members of the committee include Senators Osita Izunaso and Kabiru Ibrahim Gaya, as well as respected political figures such as Adebayo Adelabu, Uju Kennedy Ohanenye, and several other stakeholders drawn from across the federation.


According to party insiders, the composition of the committee reflects the APC’s commitment to inclusiveness, experience, and institutional balance. The diverse membership is expected to bring credibility and depth to the screening process, reinforcing confidence among party members and aspirants.


A senior party official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, stated, “The APC is determined to set a high standard with this convention. The screening committee has been carefully selected to uphold fairness, integrity, and due process. This is about strengthening internal democracy and consolidating the party’s unity ahead of future electoral engagements.”


The APC national convention is widely anticipated to shape the party’s leadership structure and strategic direction, making the role of the screening committee critical to its overall success. The screening exercise begins today.

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Operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on Monday stormed properties linked to former Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, taking over his residences and offices in an operation his camp describes as unlawful and politically driven.


The operation came minutes after a visit by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to Malami’s residence.


In a statement, Mohammed Bello Doka, Special Assistant on Media to Malami, accused the EFCC of acting without legal backing and in disregard of an ongoing court process.


“The Office of Abubakar Malami, SAN, wishes to formally address the shocking and unlawful actions carried out today by operatives of the EFCC at properties associated with the former Attorney General of the Federation, inclusive of his residential and business premises,” the statement said.


According to Doka, EFCC operatives, accompanied by heavily armed security personnel, forcefully entered the properties, marked them, and took control without presenting any court order authorising such action, while two individuals were taken into custody during the operation.


“EFCC officials, in the company of heavily armed security personnel, forcefully invaded and took over residences and offices linked to Malami, marking same without presenting any valid or subsisting court order authorizing such actions. Two people were taken to forceful custody in the course of the said invasion,” he alleged.


The office said the matter remains before the court, pointing to a case filed by the EFCC at the Federal High Court, Abuja Division, presided over by Justice Joyce Abdulmalik, and stressed that no final ruling has been made.


“The case instituted by the EFCC at the Federal High Court, Abuja Division… remains ongoing. The Honourable Court has not made any final determination on the issues in dispute, and no order authorizing the invasion and marking of the premises was argued and granted,” the statement added.


It also argued that an earlier interim forfeiture order obtained by the commission had expired and could not justify the action taken.


“The ex parte order granted on January 6, 2026, was expressly time-bound for a period of 14 days, which had already elapsed. That order has since lapsed and cannot, under any stretch of the law, justify the EFCC’s actions today,” Doka said.


The statement further claimed that EFCC operatives failed to present any lawful authorisation when asked during the operation.


“At the time of the invasion, EFCC operatives were requested to produce a lawful court order authorising their actions. They failed, refused, and/or neglected to present any such order, underscoring the illegality of their conduct.


“This is nothing short of a flagrant disregard for the rule of law, a gross abuse of power, and a dangerous precedent in a constitutional democracy. It represents a calculated attempt to harass, intimidate, and embarrass Malami, evidently on account of his  political affiliations,” he added.


While insisting that Malami supports accountability, the statement warned against what it described as overreach by state institutions.


“While Malami remains a firm believer in accountability and the fight against corruption, such efforts must be conducted strictly within the ambit of the law and not through executive lawlessness or institutional overreach.


“We wish to reiterate that Malami will continue to fully cooperate with lawful judicial processes and will defend his rights and reputation through appropriate legal channels,” the statement added.


 

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The Kwara State Government has confirmed an explosion in the Woro community of Kaiama Local Government Area, raising fresh security concerns in the area already struggling with previous attacks.


The Chief Press Secretary to the State Governor, Rafiu Ajakaye, confirmed the incident on a popular WhatsApp platform on Monday.


He said the explosion involved an Improvised Explosive Device that detonated along a road some distance from the community on Monday morning.


“The IED incident occurred on a road a distance from Woro. The device went off as a vehicle rode past it on Monday morning,” Ajakaye stated.


He disclosed that the blast led to the instant death of a male victim, while a woman and her child, who were in the vehicle, were affected.


“Sadly, the man died instantly, while his passenger, a woman travelling with a little child, sustained injuries,” he said.


Ajakaye added that the injured woman has been taken to a hospital for immediate medical attention and is responding positively, while the child escaped unhurt.


The confirmation has thrown residents into renewed panic, as the community remains on edge after previous attacks.


Also speaking on the development, the Special Assistant on Media to the Kaiama Local Government Chairman, ZulQharnain Shero Musa, said the explosion caused casualties, though the exact number of victims is not yet certain.


“There was an explosion around Woro this morning. The explosion claimed lives, though the number of casualties is not yet confirmed,” Musa said.


He added that preliminary reports suggest the IED may have been planted by suspected insurgents.


“A car drove over an IED. We believe it was planted by Boko Haram members,” Musa explained.


The PUNCH reports that the latest incident comes weeks after a deadly February assault on the Woro community, which left several residents dead and many others injured during a violent incursion by suspected armed groups.


During that attack, gunmen reportedly stormed the community in the early hours, firing sporadically and forcing residents to flee, while homes and valuables were destroyed.


The February incident displaced many families, disrupted livelihoods, and intensified calls for increased security presence in the area.


With the recurrence of violence, residents have renewed appeals to the government and security agencies to take decisive action to safeguard lives and prevent further attacks.

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The Abia State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has assured President Bola Tinubu that it will deliver over 80 per cent of the votes in the state in the 2027 presidential election.


The assurance came against the backdrop of a reported claim by a member of the Labour Party, alleging that Governor Alex Otti will work for the re-election of Tinubu in 2027.


In a statement signed by the state Publicity Secretary of the APC, Uche Aguoru, the party said, “one might be tempted to welcome and even appreciate such a claim, especially coming from a party that has consistently undermined President Tinubu and his party, the APC.


“Moreover, we are not oblivious to the deceptive tendencies and unreliability that have come to define Gov. Otti’s brand of politics. As such, we refuse to be misled by what is clearly a calculated and self-serving narrative.”


The statement said it is on record that Governor Otti and his party openly rejected the outcome of the 2023 presidential election.


“Furthermore, his supporters and close aides have continued to launch coordinated attacks against Mr President and his policies on social media. Credible intelligence strongly suggests that these actions are encouraged by Governor Otti’s government.”


The Abia APC said it is ironic that, rather than openly and boldly identifying with President Tinubu, Governor Otti has chosen to deploy proxies to communicate supposed support.


“While honest Governors like Charles Soludo of Anambra State have clearly and publicly declared their support for President Tinubu. Governor Otti has consistently denied President Tinubu due recognition for all the federal government projects he executed in Abia State.


“This sudden declaration of support is nothing more than a desperate and deceptive tactic aimed at political survival”, the statement added.


“We therefore advise President Tinubu to disregard such misleading overtures. The APC in Abia State possesses the structure, grassroots support, and political strength required to deliver no less than 80–90% of the votes for his re-election in 2027.


“The APC in Abia State remains strong, united, and influential, with vibrant grassroots structures such as the Renewed Hope Partners, Renewed Hope Ambassadors, City Boys Movement, and Relax Tinubu Is Fixing Nigeria. These groups have continued to take the message of the Renewed Hope Agenda to the grassroots, where it has been widely embraced by the people of Abia.”

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The Federal High Court in Abuja, on Monday, convicted and sentenced Chukwunyere Nwabuoku, former acting Accountant-General of the Federation (AGoF), to a 72-year jail term without an option of fine.


Justice James Omotosho, in a judgment, held that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had been able to prove the nine-count money laundering charge beyond a reasonable doubt.


According to the judge, the defendant is hereby convicted as charged.


Jutsice Omotosho convicted Nwabuoku in all the nine counts and sentenced him to eight years imprisonment in each of the counts, making 72 years.


The judge, however, ordered that the counts shall run concurrently.


Justice Omotosho, who described Nwabuoku’s act of diverting funds meant for security and defence while he served as Director of Finance and Account in the Ministry of Defence as “appalling,” commended the EFCC for being detailed in its prosecution.


The judge observed that the evidence of the 9th prosecution witness that Nwabuoku voluntarily refunded part of the siphoned money of over N200 million during investigation was not controverted by the defence.


The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Nwabuoku was admitted to a N500 million bail with two sureties in the like sum after he was arraigned on Jan. 15, 2025, on a nine-count amended charge.


The EFCC listed Mr Nwabuoku as the sole defendant in the charge marked FHC/ABJ/CR/240/2024.


Nwabuoku was alleged to have perpetrated the act while serving as the Director of Finance and Accounts in the Ministry of Defence between 2019 and 2021.(NAN)

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