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The Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) has secured the partnership of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) towards hosting of the Institute's first International Women's Day celebration scheduled to hold on 30th March, 2026, at the National Counter Terrorism Centre, Office of the National Security Adviser, Abuja. 

Speaking on Wednesday in Abuja while receiving a delegation from the NIPR, the Director General of NEMA, Mrs. Zubaida Umar said that she was impressed with the quality initiatives of the Institute in the last two years; while confirming her attendance and NEMA's partnership for the 2026 International Women’s Day.

Engaging further, the NEMA boss said, "You can see that all of a sudden, everybody is aware of the NIPR. I would like to really praise the leadership of the Institute for the hardwork and the difference that we see in the affairs of the NIPR in recent time. NIPR is now known all over and congratulations on this". 
Earlier in her presentation, the leader of the delegation and Chair, 2026 NIPR IWD Planning Committee, Hajia Lami Tumaka, fnipr, remarked that the programme is designed to showcase the value and contributions of women in societal development.

She expressed delight at the Agency's current leadership that priorities planning and prevention, describing Mrs. Umar as a beacon of inspiration for the younger generation of leaders.  

Some members of the Planning Committee that were part of the visit are: Council Member - Mrs. Maryam Sanusi, Chairman, NIPR FCT Chapter - Mr. Stanley Ogadigo, Fellow Grace Ayoola, Dr. Tope Ojeme, Fatima Abaji and Suwaiba Baba.



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Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, on Monday identified with youths and residents who staged a protest over persistent power outages and billing concerns associated with the Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC).

The demonstrators gathered at Ring Road in Benin City, displaying placards with messages such as “We say no to BEDC oppression,” “No light, no bill,” and “Edo people say no to bulk billing.” They decried prolonged blackouts, estimated billing practices, and what they described as the exorbitant cost of prepaid meters.

Governor Okpebholo, who was reportedly driving past the area, stopped to address the protesters and expressed his support. He said he halted after noticing the crowd and learning about their grievances, adding that he stood with them as fellow youths seeking fairness.

He acknowledged that electricity challenges cut across both rural and urban communities in Edo State and appealed for calm as the government engages relevant stakeholders to find solutions. According to him, issues affecting electricity supply impact everyone — from villagers to city dwellers.

While clarifying that BEDC is privately owned and not under the direct control of the state government, the governor assured residents that efforts would be made to tackle the concerns raised. He suggested liberalising the electricity distribution sector to attract new investors and end what he described as a monopoly.

Drawing a comparison with the telecommunications industry, Okpebholo said introducing more players would provide consumers with options and improve service delivery. He further announced plans to convene a stakeholders’ meeting on Tuesday and urged the protesters to nominate five representatives to participate in discussions.

Speaking for the group, Comrade Ogbidi Emmanuel said residents were compelled to protest what he termed oppressive practices by the distribution company. He questioned the transparency of BEDC’s free meter distribution initiative and challenged the company to publicly disclose beneficiaries.

“We pay for light and they give us darkness,” he said, alleging that prepaid meters cost between ₦150,000 and ₦400,000.

The protest remained peaceful, with security personnel on ground to ensure order. The demonstrators dispersed after the governor’s address. As of press time, BEDC had yet to release an official statement in response to the claims.


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At least two pregnant internally displaced women have died within a span of five days in Agagbe, Gwer West Local Government Area of Benue State.

Local sources confirmed on Monday that the women — Aondona Dooshima, 30, and Sumali Blessing, 28 — passed away on February 26 and March 1, 2026, respectively.

A resident of the community, Terna, who spoke anonymously, attributed the deaths to poverty and poor access to healthcare services. He explained that Dooshima, who was displaced from Tse Nongu Tswarev in Gaambe Ushin Council Ward, developed severe abdominal pain on February 26.

According to him, the family could not afford adequate medical care. She was eventually taken to a clinic in Agagbe when her condition worsened, but she later died.

Terna added that while the community was still mourning her death, another expectant mother, Sumali Blessing, also lost her life. Blessing, said to be from Tse Ameen in Mbapa Council Ward, reportedly fell ill but was unable to access proper treatment due to financial constraints.

Her husband later took her to a primary healthcare centre in Abani on Sunday, but it was too late. She died the following day, and her body was deposited at the Agagbe morgue.

The source noted that both women and their families had sought refuge in Agagbe after fleeing attacks in their ancestral communities. He called on the state government, humanitarian organisations, and concerned individuals to urgently assist displaced families in the area, particularly with healthcare and welfare support.

When contacted, the Information Officer of the Benue State Emergency Management Agency, Tema Ager, clarified that although the women were internally displaced persons, they were not living inside the official camp.

“The two women were not staying in the camp but within the host community,” Ager said.

The deaths highlight the continuing challenges faced by displaced families in Benue State, many of whom struggle with limited access to healthcare, food, and other essential services after years of violence that forced them from their homes.

Agagbe is one of the 14 officially recognized Internally Displaced Persons camps in the state.


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Adamu Atiku Abubakar, son of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, has resigned from his role as Commissioner for Works and Energy Development in Adamawa State.

In a resignation letter dated March 2, 2026, and addressed to Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, Adamu stated that his decision came after “deep personal reflection and careful consideration.”

“I write to formally tender my resignation from the office of Honourable Commissioner for Works and Energy Development, Adamawa State, effective from today, 2nd March, 2026,” the letter read.

He described his tenure as a distinct honour and expressed appreciation to the governor for the opportunity to serve. According to him, it was a privilege to work under Fintiri’s leadership and contribute to the state’s infrastructural advancement.

Adamu also thanked the people of Adamawa State for their support throughout his time in office. He acknowledged the trust placed in him by the governor and noted that the enabling environment provided allowed him to discharge his duties with commitment and diligence.

Concluding his letter, he offered prayers for the governor, asking Allah to grant him continued strength and guidance in serving the state.

Adamu chose not to defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC). He was absent from the group of 22 commissioners who accompanied Governor Fintiri to formally announce their defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC on February 27, 2026.


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A series of resignations has swept through the cabinet of Monday Okpebholo, following a directive issued to political appointees seeking elective offices in the 2027 general elections.

The development came after a circular dated February 28, 2026, signed by the Secretary to the Edo State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor, and made public on March 2, 2026. The directive instructed all political appointees, civil servants, and officials in the administration aspiring to contest elective positions in 2027 to step down immediately.

Among those who have submitted resignation letters are Dr. Washington Osifo, Commissioner for Water Resources and Sanitation; Dr. Lucky Eseigbe, Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development; Bar Peter Uwadiae-Igbinigie, State Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC); and Pius Alile, Deputy Chief of Staff to the State Deputy Governor, Hon. Dennis Idahosa.

In separate letters addressed to the Secretary to the State Government, the officials declared their intentions to contest seats in the House of Representatives for their respective constituencies.

Dr. Osifo stated that he resigned to pursue the House of Representatives seat for the Orhionmwon/Uhumwonde Federal Constituency, currently represented by Chief Billy Osawaru, who is reportedly seeking a second term.

Pius Alile stepped down from his role in the office of the Deputy Governor to contest for the Egor/Ikpoba Okha Federal Constituency. In his resignation letter dated February 27, 2026, Alile cited compliance with provisions of the newly enacted Electoral Act 2026, which mandates that political appointees and public office holders resign before contesting elections.

The Egor/Ikpoba Okha seat is presently occupied by Hon. Omoruyi Murphy Osaro, who recently defected to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) from the Labour Party.

Dr. Lucky Eseigbe also resigned to contest the Esan Central/Esan West/Igueben Federal Constituency seat.

Meanwhile, Bar Peter Uwadiae-Igbinigie stepped down from his position as Special Adviser to the Governor on Political Party Affairs to contest in the party’s March 3, 2026 State Congress for the office of State Publicity Secretary.

The mass resignations mark a significant political shift within the Okpebholo administration as preparations intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections.


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The long-awaited unveiling of the new Abuja Showroom of Dee Utensils, a popular kitchenware has come and gone but not without the long-lasting memories the colourful event created. 

In addition to massive presence of high network individuals, such as Veteran Nollywood actress, Rita Edochie and renowned fashion expert, Sheyi Vodi, CEO of Vodi Group, DG Frin, Dr. Zacharia Buba Yaduma (PhD) among others, the massive sales which was as a result of 20% discount magnanimously introduced by Dee Utensils. 

Located at Plot 965, Aminu Kano Crescent Wuse II, Banex Junction, beside LG showroom, the facility boasts of unique and luxurious kitchenwares that meet global standard. 

Speaking at the event, the CEO of Dee Utencils, Dr (Mrs) Andrew Lois Ihwo described the new showroom as a testament of Dee Utencils' commitment to make its products more accessible to residents of the nation's capital. 
She said the organization's products are among the very best that can be seen anywhere across the world. 

"I travel a lot because I want the best for my clients. I want something different from what people know or sell out there. I just want Dee Utensils to be unique and outstanding. To the glory of God, we are dominating the market. 

"Most of our goods are supplied from Turkey, Germany, the US, the UK, China, Dubai, and India, among other countries. We have connections with most of these factories and we go as far as giving specifications and designs for the products we want", she said. 

Before the unveiling, the facility was committed to God by Pastor Mrs. Becky Enenche of the Dunamis International Gospel Centre. 

Dr. Andrew Lois Ihwo wields massive influence in Abuja business landscape and has largely impacted women folks generally. 

With multiple awards to her kitty, she is renowned for her investment in philanthropy and humanitarian interventions. 
Not long ago, she was conferred with Honorary Doctorate Degree by American Management University California USA as well as prestigious award of Most Inspiring Entrepreneur of the Year, a recognition accorded her at the 15th Peace Achievers Award 2025.

In December, she bagged the traditional title conferment of Trauraruwan Matan Kasar Jiwa (the shinning star of Jiwa land) an honour bestowed on her by the Emir of Jiwa, His Royal Highness, Alh. Dr. Idris Musa in recognition of her achievements, especially her humanitarian commitment and impact to communities as well as her organisation's giant strides in business and the nation's economy.

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Abuja & Lokoja, Nigeria — February 2026

In what industry observers are already describing as a defining moment for Nigeria’s creative sector, Nigerian comedian, content creator, and entertainment entrepreneur Aminu De Comedian has achieved a rare back-to-back entertainment milestone, successfully headlining two major comedy shows in Abuja and Lokoja that not only drew massive audiences but also secured high-level endorsement from the Kogi State Government.

The journey began in Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory, where the Abuja edition of his comedy special transformed the prestigious Congress Hall of Transcorp Hilton into a vibrant arena of laughter, culture, and artistic excellence. The event attracted an impressive cross-section of society, including entertainment stakeholders, business leaders, public figures, and cultural enthusiasts who gathered to witness a performance widely regarded as one of the most compelling comedy showcases hosted in the Middle Belt region in recent times. Beyond comedy, the evening reflected strategic growth, professionalism, and brand maturity, signaling Aminu De Comedian’s evolution from a rising talent into a nationally relevant entertainment figure capable of commanding elite stages and large audiences.

Riding on the overwhelming success recorded in Abuja, Aminu De Comedian returned to his roots for what would become an emotional and historic homecoming in Lokoja. The Lokoja edition surpassed expectations, drawing unprecedented attendance and creating an atmosphere that celebrated not only entertainment but identity, youth aspiration, and regional pride. The significance of the event was further elevated by official recognition from the Executive Governor of Kogi State, Ahmed Usman Ododo, alongside the Deputy Governor, Joel Salifu Oyibo, whose endorsement underscored the growing role of the creative industry as a catalyst for economic opportunity and youth empowerment within the state.
The presence and commendation of the state’s highest leadership transformed the show from a conventional entertainment event into a symbolic moment of alignment between governance and creativity. It reflected an administration willing to recognize entertainment as a legitimate vehicle for development, social engagement, and positive youth expression. For many attendees and industry watchers, the endorsement represented a powerful validation of years of grassroots effort invested by Aminu De Comedian in building platforms that nurture emerging talents while projecting Northern and Middle Belt creativity onto national and global stages.

The Lokoja edition, proudly sponsored by Hon. David Excel Onuche, CEO of Page Mansions and Special Adviser to the Governor on Grassroots Mobilization, further demonstrated institutional confidence in the entertainer’s vision and influence. The collaboration highlighted how entertainment continues to evolve into a bridge connecting governance, private enterprise, and community development.

Reflecting on the historic success of both shows and the unprecedented support received, Aminu De Comedian expressed profound gratitude and admiration for the leadership backing the creative industry in Kogi State, stating:

> “His Excellency, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has proven himself to be a visionary leader and a true pillar of support for youth development and the creative industry in Kogi State. His endorsement and encouragement mean more than words can express. It sends a clear message that this administration believes in the dreams of young people and is committed to empowering talents to thrive. I am deeply honored by his support, and I am inspired more than ever to continue making Kogi State proud on national and global stages.”



Having previously showcased his talent internationally across the United Kingdom and Ireland, Aminu De Comedian continues to build a reputation rooted in authenticity, cultural storytelling, and social relevance. His performances seamlessly blend humor with lived experiences, creating relatable narratives that resonate across diverse audiences while opening doors for upcoming performers seeking visibility and opportunity.

The twin successes recorded in Abuja and Lokoja mark more than a personal achievement; they signal the emergence of a new entertainment movement anchored in regional identity, youth empowerment, and creative excellence. As Nigeria’s entertainment landscape continues to expand beyond traditional hubs, Aminu De Comedian’s trajectory stands as compelling evidence that innovation, consistency, and community connection can elevate local talent into national influence.

With growing institutional recognition, expanding audience reach, and increasing international exposure, Aminu De Comedian now stands positioned as one of the leading cultural ambassadors redefining comedy and creative entrepreneurship from Northern and Middle Belt Nigeria. His journey from Abuja’s elite stage to Lokoja’s historic homecoming represents not just success, but a powerful narrative of talent meeting opportunity, vision meeting leadership support, and entertainment evolving into a force capable of inspiring a generation.
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In celebration of Waterlight Save Initiative’s commitment to youth-driven development, the organisation has announce the iHEAL Global Youth Impact Forum 2026, taking place at the NAF Conference Center in Abuja.

This historical iHEAL landmark Global Youth Impact Forum 2026, organized by the Waterlight Save Initiative, is scheduled for August 11–12, 2026, in Abuja, will bring together youths stakeholders captain of industry, philanthropist, amongst. 

The forum aims to empower young leaders, innovators, and entrepreneurs to drive sustainable development through initiatives focusing on health, education, and economic empowerment.

In a statement by the organisation, said the forum aligns with the "#iHEALBlueprint" to foster creative youth development and sustainable solutions in Africa.

This will target Audience young leaders, innovators, entrepreneurs, and activists, particularly those focused on driving local and global impact.

Under the theme “Youth Empowerment for a Sustainable Future,” this landmark gathering will convene visionary young leaders, innovators, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and development partners from Nigeria and across the globe.

Similarly, young people, change-makers, and aspiring entrepreneurs are invited to register and secure their place at one of Africa’s most transformative youth platforms.

Participants Will Gain access to global mentors, policymakers, and industry leaders and high-level leadership and capacity-building sessions. Networking with youth across Nigeria and around the world.

Will also exposure to career, innovation, and entrepreneurship opportunities visibility for your ideas and projects and certificate of participation and official recognition with access to non-refundable grant opportunities opportunity to receive startup equipment support to launch or scale your venture.

The Forum goes beyond dialogue , it is a results-driven platform designed to equip participants with practical tools, funding pathways, strategic partnerships, and implementation support.

This is where ideas move from conversation to implementation young leaders ready to build, innovate, and lead the future are encouraged to scan the registration link or visit the website at www.waterlightsave.africa and secure their participation."


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XLCreativeHub has called on screenwriters and storytellers to submit synopses of their original feature-length film scripts for its Screenwriting Competition and Creator Residency.

The announcement was made on the organisation’s website on Sunday.

The management said submissions would close on 16 March, while judges would review entries between 17 and 20 March.

It added that six finalists would be selected and announced on 20 March, with the entire event streamed live on XLCreativeHub’s YouTube channel.

According to the organisers, the judging panel includes Halima Odiegwu, Emil Guruba and Kehinde Joseph.

The statement noted that shortlisted finalists would participate in a Screenwriting Residency scheduled to hold in Abuja from 22 to 28 March.

It added that public voting for the winner would commence on 28 March and end on 6 April, while the overall winner would be announced on 7 April 2026.

The statement read, “We are pleased to invite screenwriters and storytellers to submit a synopsis of their original feature-length film script for consideration in the prestigious XLCreativeHub Screenwriting Competition and Creator Residency.

“If you have a powerful story and the vision to bring it to life on screen, this is your chance to be discovered, developed, and celebrated.

“This highly competitive programme offers a rare opportunity to turn your script into a produced film while competing for a professional film writing contract, a chance to win a film production deal and shared royalties.”

The organisers explained that only six finalists would be selected by a team of screenwriters and industry specialists.

It stated that the finalists would undergo a one-week creator residency where judges would mentor them and support the development of their scripts.

“At the end of the residency, each finalist will produce a movie script from which a trailer will be created. The general public will then preview the trailers and vote for their favourite script. The finalist with the highest votes will be declared the winner,” the statement added.

The hub urged interested creatives to submit their synopses and take the next step towards transforming their ideas into reality.
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The Dangote Petroleum Refinery has raised its Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) gantry price by N101, increasing the ex-depot rate from N774 to N875 per litre, a move expected to trigger fresh fuel price adjustments nationwide.

A senior official at the refinery confirmed the development on Monday, attributing the upward review to persistent volatility in global crude oil prices.

“Yes, the price has been reviewed. The new gantry price is now N875 per litre from N774. The review became necessary due to changes in global crude fundamentals and replacement costs,” the official stated.

Checks on petroleumprice.ng showed that the revised rate had already been updated, signalling a shift in downstream pricing benchmarks.

The price hike followed the refinery’s suspension of petrol loading operations effective midnight, March 2, 2026, after international crude oil prices surged past the $80 per barrel mark. Industry data indicated that PMS loading stopped exactly at midnight, halting product lifting and the issuance of Proforma Invoices — a sign that new transactions were temporarily paused.

The suspension, however, applied strictly to petrol, as Automotive Gas Oil (diesel) continued to load without interruption.

The refinery’s move sparked a ripple effect across the downstream sector, with several private depot owners reportedly halting petrol sales during the trading day.

“Several depot owners suspended PMS sales because of the crude rally. The market is already factoring in risk premiums. Nobody wants to sell below replacement cost,” a downstream operator disclosed.

The latest development comes amid heightened volatility in the global oil market, largely driven by escalating tensions between the United States and Iran, raising fears of potential supply disruptions — particularly around the strategic Strait of Hormuz.

Energy experts have warned that Nigeria may witness further increases in petrol and diesel prices if crude oil prices climb beyond $90 per barrel. According to them, prolonged instability in the Middle East could disrupt supply chains, inflate shipping and insurance costs, and push up import and refining expenses — despite the country’s expanding domestic refining capacity.

THE PUNCH 
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The Department of State Services have arrested a suspect named Udeme Sunday Stephen, believed to be linked to the attack on the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and some chieftains of the African Democratic Congress in Benin, the Edo State capital.

According to Channels Television, the secret agency arrested the suspect after a thorough investigation.

PUNCH Online had reported that Obi and some party chieftains were attacked at the residence of a chieftain of the ADC, John Odigie-Oyegun, last Tuesday.

According to the National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, Yunusa Tanko, the incident occurred shortly after they returned from the ADC secretariat, where they formally welcomed the 2023 LP governorship candidate for Edo, Olumide Akpata, into the party.

More to come…

(Punch)


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The National Police Council has unanimously endorsed the appointment of Olatunji Disu as substantive Inspector-General of Police.

The Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, confirmed this to our correspondent after the council’s meeting at the State House, Abuja, which lasted about 40 minutes.

“Yes, they have unanimously endorsed Disu as IGP,” Onanuga said

The gathering began at about 2:15 pm when Tinubu arrived at the Council Chamber.

The meeting is in compliance with the provisions of the Police Act 2020, which requires the Police Council to consider the appointment.

In its statement announcing the resignation of former IGP Kayode Egbetokun last Tuesday, the Presidency had indicated that the council would be convened shortly.

“In compliance with the provisions of the Police Act 2020, President Tinubu will convene a meeting of the Nigeria Police Council shortly to formally consider the appointment of AIG Disu as substantive Inspector-General of Police, after which his name will be transmitted to the Senate for confirmation,” Onanuga said in the statement.

The Police Council is chaired by the President and comprises all 36 state governors, the Chairman of the Police Service Commission, and the Inspector-General of Police.

On Sunday, two highly placed officials in the Presidency and the police establishment confirmed the scheduled meeting to our correspondent.

“The Police Council Meeting is on Monday,” one of the sources said.

The second source, also familiar with the president’s schedule, confirmed, “Yes, we are meeting on Monday. The usual time for FEC meetings is 12:00 or 1:00 pm.”

Those who attended the meeting are Vice President Kashim Shettima, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, Head of Civil Service, Didi Walson-Jack, and Governors of Enugu, Nasarawa, Ogun, Kwara, Plateau, Ondo and Lagos.

The Deputy Governor of Kogi State also attended alongside the Ministers of the Federal Capital Territory, Police Affairs and Interior.

Disu, 59, has been serving in an acting capacity since his appointment on Wednesday following Egbetokun’s exit.

Although the former IGP officially cited “family issues” in his resignation letter, Saturday PUNCH reported that he was summoned to the Presidential Villa on Monday evening and informed that he had to step down.

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The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has expressed concern over what it described as emerging moves by certain political interests to allegedly deploy respected international media outlets as tools of political opposition against the administration of President Bola Tinubu in the lead-up to the 2027 General Elections.

Speaking with journalists in Abuja, HURIWA’s National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, disclosed that the association had obtained what it considers credible information indicating that documentary-style features and special investigative reports are being prepared, allegedly with the aim of undermining the image of the current government.

He noted that early signals suggest that senior figures within the Federal Executive Council may become key subjects of what the group characterised as an organised reputational attack.

Onwubiko stressed that HURIWA supports investigative journalism, describing it as a fundamental pillar of democracy that reinforces institutions, uncovers misconduct, and advances accountability.

However, he warned against what he called the misuse of investigative reporting for partisan objectives.

“What deeply concerns us is the possibility that investigative reporting could be weaponised as a political tool, particularly where allegations are presented without verifiable and substantiated evidence,” he said.

The civil society body observed that globally, election seasons increasingly witness attempts to manipulate information environments to sway public opinion and shape electoral outcomes.

“As we approach the 2027 General Elections, Nigeria must not become vulnerable to such tactics,” Onwubiko stated.

He explained that the group’s position is not to protect any office holder from legitimate scrutiny but to safeguard the credibility of democratic engagement.

“Where there is credible evidence of wrongdoing, it must be transparently presented and lawfully investigated. No public office holder should be above accountability. But equally, democracy must not become a theatre for campaigns of calumny driven by partisan calculations,” he said.

HURIWA urged international media organisations to maintain strict editorial independence and adhere to rigorous evidentiary standards, advising that documentary productions should be rooted in verified facts rather than influenced by political sponsorship.

The association also called on political stakeholders, irrespective of affiliation, to avoid clandestine influence strategies that could harm Nigeria’s international standing. It further appealed to government institutions to remain open and transparent to legitimate scrutiny.

In addition, the group encouraged Nigerians to approach sensational claims with caution as the country draws nearer to the 2027 elections.

“This is not about personalities. It is about institutions. It is not about partisanship. It is about principle,” Onwubiko said, adding that democracy thrives on truth, transparency, and responsibility.

The organisation affirmed that it will continue to track developments and raise its voice whenever it perceives threats to democratic integrity.


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The federal government says it has commenced the implementation of Executive Order 9 of 2026, which mandates the direct remittance of oil revenues to the federation account allocation committee (FAAC).

The move follows the inaugural meeting of the implementation committee for the executive order, held on February 26, 2026.

Wale Edun, the minister of finance and coordinating minister of the economy, announced the development in a statement on Monday, providing details on resolutions at the meeting.

He said the committee reaffirmed the president’s directive that revenues accruing to the federation from petroleum operations must be handled in a manner that upholds constitutional principles, protects revenues accruable to the federation, and supports the fiscal stability of the three tiers of government.

“In line with the President’s directive, NNPC Limited shall cease, with immediate effect, the collection of the 30% management fee and the 30% frontier exploration fund deductions from profit oil and profit gas under Production Sharing Contracts (PSCs),” the statement reads.

“Additionally, all remittances of gas flare penalties into the Midstream and Downstream Gas Infrastructure Fund (MDGIF) are suspended with immediate effect, in line with the Executive Order.”

On Section 2(3) of the order, which provides for direct payments by contractors into the federation account, Edun said the committee agreed that the transition must be implemented in a manner that respects existing contractual and financing arrangements, and maintains investor confidence.

“For this reason, the Committee approved a defined transition period for the operationalisation of direct payments by contractors of profit oil, royalty oil, and tax oil into the Federation Account,” the minister said.

“Until the Committee issues detailed guidelines, contractors will continue to remit under the current process. During the transition period, the Committee will issue clear, standardised guidance to ensure an orderly changeover.”

He said the committee approved the establishment of a technical subcommittee to develop detailed transition guidelines within three weeks, and commence a review of the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) to address structural and fiscal anomalies that weaken federation revenues.

“The Technical Subcommittee will be led by the Special Adviser to the President on Energy, and will include the Solicitor-General of the Federation and Permanent Secretary Federal Ministry of Justice, the Chairman of the Nigeria Revenue Service, and the Chairman of the Forum of Commissioners of Finance, representatives of the Minister of State Petroleum Resources, Oil, with secretarial support from the Budget Office of the Federation,” Edun said.

He added that the committee will continue to provide coordinated guidance and timely updates as implementation progresses, commending stakeholders for their cooperation in advancing efforts to ensure that Nigeria’s petroleum resources deliver measurable benefits to citizens across the federation.

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Nyesom Wike, minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has reiterated that Ireti Kingibe would not be returning to the senate in 2027 because she has “no project to show”.

Kingibe, who represents the FCT in the upper legislative chamber, was elected senator on the Labour Party (LP) platform in 2023.

In 2024, Wike vowed that the senator would not be re-elected in 2027.

Prior to this, Kingibe claimed Wike had refused to respond to her letters and messages amid rising insecurity in Abuja.

The senator also posited that Wike did not have the interest of the FCT at heart, claiming that residents were battling water scarcity amid other challenges.

Speaking at a media parley in Abuja on Monday, Wike tied his prediction of Kingibe not returning as senator to project delivery.

“I had said it more than one year ago, Senator Ireti, you won’t come back as a senator. That’s why you people don’t like people who tell you the truth. It’s bitter. Let her show one project,” he said.

He added that Kingibe has been absent from satellite communities where folks actually turn out to vote.

FCT POLLING UNIT VISITS

During the recent FCT area council elections, Wike was criticised by opposition political parties for visiting several polling units during the vote.

The minister defended his action during the media chat, adding that he has the right, as the territory’s chief security officer, to visit polling units.

“I’m the governor of FCT, for security, I have to find out what’s going on. I don’t need to be told. I’m not a candidate in the election. As the chief security officer, I have the right to have the view of what was going on,” he said.

“I wasn’t on the ballot and I never said people should vote for the APC. What I said was that the candidates supporting Mr President are the candidates I will support.”

He shared that he visited about 10 polling units and rejected insinuations of interfering with the poll.

“And how does it influence (the election)? When did Nigerians conduct referendum that they are not happy that I as chief security went to 10 polling units to check what was going on?” he asked.

Wike dismissed comparisons to past ministers.

“What’s my business? You have said the previous ministers you had never bothered about development. So, because they didn’t do development, I should not do development?” he asked.


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The Federal Road Safety Corps says it has commenced investigation into reports of illegal car racing and stunt driving allegedly carried out by some youths around the National Mosque area in Abuja.

The Corps Public Education Officer, Olusegun Ogungbemide, disclosed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria on Monday in Abuja.

Ogungbemide said the corps had received complaints from members of the public concerning the development, which he described as illegal and unsafe.

“Yes, I will not deny the fact that we have heard about such activities which is illegal or quasi-illegal,” he said.

He explained that the FRSC Corps Marshal, Malam Shehu Mohammed had mandated the FRSC Sector Commander in the Federal Capital Territory, Felix Theman to investigate the allegations and submit a prompt report for decisive action.

According to him, the complaints have been coming from some residents, though accounts of the incidents were not vivid or consistent.

The FRSC national spokesperson noted that the reports were largely based on information volunteered by concerned residents who noticed unusual racing activities within the area.

He said such acts, if confirmed, was unlawful, as Nigeria does not permit Formula One-style racing or similar sporting activities on public roads.

“Legally, we do not have Formula One running as a regular sport on Nigerian roads, so if such is happening, then it will be compromising the safety of other road users, because it is not legal.

“The corps has not granted permission to any organisation or group to conduct car racing or stunt driving on roads within the territory.”

Ogungbemide assured that once the investigation was concluded, appropriate action would be taken in line with existing traffic laws and safety regulations to safeguard other road users.

He reiterated the corps’ commitment to ensuring safety on Nigerian roads and urged members of the public to continue to provide credible information to assist enforcement efforts.

(NAN)



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