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Kano State  Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf,  will present the 2027 budget before the State House of Assembly on Wednesday.


Gov Yusuf urged the members of the State Executive Council to actively contribute to the review and successful presentation of the proposed 2027 budget, emphasizing the core principles of collective responsibility, transparency, and effective governance.


​Governor Yusuf made the call during a special meeting of the State Executive Council on Sunday.


This was contained in a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mustapha Muhammad.


The Governor emphasized that freely expressing views and thoroughly examining the budget components proposed for their respective ministries, departments, agencies, and parastatals would ensure a robust and all-inclusive fiscal plan.


​He directed the Commissioner for Planning and Budget to lead the budget discussions, while tasking all other commissioners with reviewing their respective portfolio proposals to make meaningful contributions toward a comprehensive presentation.


During the meeting, Governor Yusuf formally welcomed the newly sworn-in commissioners into the State Executive Council.


He assured them of the administration’s full support and urged existing cabinet members to extend hands of friendship, understanding, and cooperation to foster strong teamwork and enhance service delivery across the state.


Consolidating Achievements for Greater Development


Reflecting on the milestones recorded under the 2026 fiscal year, Governor Yusuf expressed strong optimism that the 2027 budget will deliver even greater results.


He described the upcoming budget as a vital instrument to consolidate existing achievements and accelerate sustainable development across Kano State.


He also expressed appreciation to members of the press for their continued support, professionalism, and partnership with his administration.


Governor Yusuf concluded by expressing confidence that, through collective commitment, unity, and divine guidance, his administration will continue to fulfill its development objectives for the betterment of the good people of Kano State.


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Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has commended the Kano State Police Command, under the leadership of Commissioner of Police, CP Adamu Bakori, for successfully rescuing the All Progressives Congress (APC) Chairman of Rogo Local Government Area, Hon. Abdullahi Alasan Beli, popularly known as Abdullahi Fanka, after 68 days in captivity.


PlatinumPost reports that Hon. Abdullahi Fanka was reportedly abducted by armed men from his residence in Beli Community, Rogo Local Government Area in September.


This was contained in a statement issued by Kano State Commissioner of Information and Internal Affairs, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, on Sunday.


‘’Recounting his ordeal, the rescued APC chairman disclosed that his abductors moved him through several locations, including Danja, Ikara and Giwa in Kaduna State, as well as parts of Zamfara State, ‘’the statement said.


CP Adamu Bakori disclosed the successful rescue operation while briefing Governor Yusuf at the Government House, Kano.


He explained that the operation was coordinated through tactical security measures, which eventually led to the victim’s freedom.


The Commissioner of Police reaffirmed the commitment of the Kano State Police Command to intensifying efforts towards tackling kidnapping and other criminal activities in the state.


In his response, Governor Yusuf commended CP Adamu Bakori and the entire Police Command for their efforts in securing the release of the APC chairman.


The Governor particularly acknowledged the contributions of the Officer-in-Charge of the Police Anti-Kidnapping Squad, CSP Aliyu Muhammad Auwal; CSP Ado Muhammad Audi; and the State Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Abdullahi Kiyawa, for their roles in the successful operation.


Governor Yusuf further directed the State Commissioner for Health to ensure that the rescued victim receives comprehensive medical attention and psychosocial rehabilitation at the expense of the state government.


The Governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to supporting security agencies in their efforts to protect lives and property and ensure the safety of residents across Kano State.


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US President Donald Trump said that his mass deportation of undocumented immigrants was “too tough,” according to an excerpt of an interview with CBS aired Sunday.


Asked about his deportation policy, Trump told CBS’ “60 Minutes”: “I think it was too tough…I think it might be too tough.”


The excerpt was published by CBS on X ahead of a broadcast of the interview on network TV later Sunday. It was recorded after the Republican Party’s heavy loss in midterm elections on Tuesday.


While Trump has won some domestic support for securing the US southern border, his administration’s aggressive push to deport millions of undocumented migrants has drawn widespread criticism.


However, Trump on Friday appointed the architect of that hardline policy, Stephen Miller, as his chief of staff on Friday, signaling a bare-knuckle fightback after the Republican election loss.


Miller has been synonymous with scenes of masked immigration agents committing violence after he backed federal agents who shot and killed two Americans early this year.


Vangaurd


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The Nigerian Air Force on Sunday announced a major shake-up of its senior leadership that involves fresh appointments and postings across its operational commands, strategic institutions and Defence Headquarters.


The exercise, which was approved by the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, on Saturday, November 7, 2026, was aimed at strengthening command effectiveness, enhancing institutional capacity and sustaining operational readiness.


The spokesman of NAF, Ehimen Ejodame, an Air Commodore, said in a statement that the appointments covered service headquarters, operational commands, training institutions and other strategic establishments.


“All affected officers are expected to assume their new appointments and complete the necessary handover and takeover formalities on or before November 13, 2026,” the statement said.


At the NAF Headquarters, Air Vice Marshal AK Ademuwagun was appointed Chief of Transformation and Innovation, while AVM IV Ajiboye became Superintendent of Standards and Evaluation.


Other appointments include AVM PN Amadi as Chief of Air Intelligence; AVM NN Ananaba as Chief of Operations; AVM AH Bakari as Air Provost Marshal; AVM EE Efiom as Chief of Training; and AVM AJ Laoye as Chief of Aircraft Engineering.


The Air Force also appointed AVM NI Ilo as Air Officer Commanding, Tactical Air Command; AVM BR Mamman as AOC, Mobility Command; AVM OS Ogunsina as AOC, Logistics Command; AVM MN Onyebashi as AOC, Special Operations Command; and AVM FCS Nwakara as AOC, Ground Training Command.


At the institutional level, AVM PB Philips was appointed Commandant of the Armed Forces Command and Staff College, while AVM MC Ekwueme became Commandant of the Armed Forces Resettlement Centre.


Similarly, AVM AO Akinbunwa was appointed Commandant of the Air Force War College, while AVM OC Ubadike became Commandant of the Air Force Institute of Technology.


Other appointments include AVM AI Sambo as Commandant of the Nigerian Air Force College of Logistics and Management and AVM M Yusuf as Deputy Commandant of the Nigerian Defence Academy.


At the Defence Headquarters, AVM UK Abdullahi was appointed Director of Defence Operations, while AVM EOE Ebiowe was posted to the Office of the National Security Adviser as Deputy Coordinator, National Intelligence.


Also, AVM DDG Pwajok was appointed Director of Technical Services at the Defence Intelligence Agency, while AVM I Sani became Deputy Chief of Defence Intelligence.


Other senior officers were posted to various directorates at the Defence Headquarters, including operations, military strategy, cyber operations, civil-military relations, search and rescue, special duties and joint warfare doctrine.


The appointments also affected the Defence Space Administration, where AVM AA Suleh was named Deputy Chief, while AVM OA Oyename and AVM SS Lazarus were appointed Directors of Earth Observation and Launch Vehicles and Space Operations, respectively.


Furthermore, AVM GI Jibia was appointed Deputy Force Commander of Operation Hadin Kai, while AVM JI Ukeh became Commander of the Nigerian Air Defence Corps.


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The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Ola Olukoyede, has revealed that the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, ordered the refund of billions of naira donated to a church project after the funds were traced to proceeds of crime.


Olukoyede said Adeboye directed the immediate return of the money within 24 hours after the church was alerted to its illicit source.


The EFCC chairman disclosed this while addressing workers of the RCCG in the early hours of Saturday, November 7, during a meeting organised by the church ahead of its annual Holy Ghost Congress.


According to Church Times Nigeria, which reported the development on Saturday, Adeboye had “invited Olukoyede to address the workers on financial propriety and the need for churches to maintain transparent financial records.”


Recounting the incident, Olukoyede said “a church member had donated billions of naira towards an RCCG project, but investigations later revealed that the money was proceeds of financial crime.”


He commended “Adeboye for ordering the refund shortly after the church was alerted.”


According to the report, Olukoyede did not disclose the identity of the donor, the specific RCCG project or the exact amount involved, but said the billions of naira donated were later discovered to be proceeds of crime.


The EFCC boss, who is also an ordained pastor, expressed concern over the increasing number of cases involving church leaders implicated in financial crimes, as well as allegations relating to contracts for church projects.


He warned “church workers against accepting suspicious donations and pursuing money through questionable means.”


Another church in ponzi scheme


Olukoyede also recalled a separate case involving “another church allegedly implicated in a Ponzi scheme, saying its leader initially resisted the commission’s intervention but eventually refunded a substantial amount after the EFCC threatened legal action.”


Names and details about the church and said ponzi scheme were also withheld.


He warned that the “commission would not spare anyone involved in financial crimes, regardless of their religious position or affiliation.”


The EFCC chairman further “cautioned church members against materialism, unhealthy competition and leadership struggles, saying such tendencies could expose religious institutions to financial misconduct.”


He also raised concerns about reports of individuals allegedly bribing their way into leadership positions within the RCCG.


Olukoyede urged pastors to investigate the sources of donations before accepting them, stressing the need to ensure that contributions to church projects were not proceeds of criminal activities.


Responding, Adeboye said the “RCCG would not protect anyone found to be involved in financial wrongdoing.”


He also urged “pastors in the church to maintain clean financial records” and ensure that their activities were free from corruption.

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The PBAT Door-to-Door Movement, convened by prominent Niger Delta leader, High Chief Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, is expanding its nationwide mobilisation campaign, with plans to visit eight additional states between November 9 and 14 to consolidate grassroots support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of the 2027 presidential election.


The movement’s next phase of mobilisation will cover Enugu, Cross River, Bayelsa, Zamfara, Jigawa, Anambra, Kebbi and Abia states, extending its activities across the South-East, South-South and North-West regions.


According to the programme released by the movement, the exercise will begin on Monday, November 9, with separate engagements in Enugu and Cross River states.


The Enugu event is scheduled for 10am at Okpara Square, while the Cross River engagement will take place at 2pm at the Calabar Municipal Field.


The mobilisation team will move to Bayelsa State on Wednesday, November 11, for an event scheduled to hold at 10am at the Siasia Stadium, Yenagoa.


On Thursday, November 12, the movement will visit Zamfara State for an 11am engagement before proceeding to Jigawa State for another programme scheduled for 2pm.


The campaign will continue on Friday, November 13, with engagements in Anambra and Kebbi states at 10am and 2pm respectively. The tour will conclude in Abia State on Saturday, November 14, with an engagement scheduled for 10am.


However, venues for the programmes in Zamfara, Jigawa, Anambra, Kebbi and Abia states are yet to be made public.


The latest exercise is part of the movement’s broader strategy to build a nationwide grassroots mobilisation structure capable of reaching Nigerians at the ward, local government and community levels.


The group said it had extended its activities to about 20 states of the federation, distributing more than 500 vehicles to support its operations and enhance the effectiveness of its coordinators nationwide.


According to the movement, the vehicles are expected to strengthen logistics, improve coordination and enable its representatives to reach communities, markets, neighbourhoods and other grassroots locations with the policies and programmes of the Tinubu administration.


The initiative builds on previous mobilisation activities through which the movement has sought to establish an extensive political network beyond conventional campaign rallies.


Its operational structure is anchored on state, local government and ward coordinators, who are expected to engage residents directly, communicate the President’s agenda and gather feedback from communities.


The movement is also focusing on publicising the policies and programmes of the Tinubu administration, particularly its economic reforms, infrastructure development, education initiatives, local government autonomy and other government interventions.


The National Coordinator of the movement, Sunday Asuku, has consistently stressed the importance of effective grassroots mobilisation, community engagement and feedback, urging coordinators at the state and local government levels to extend their activities to every ward and polling unit.


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The President of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Baba Othman Ngelzarma, has declared his intention to seek re-election for a second term, expressing confidence in his leadership experience and commitment to the growth and unity of the association.


Ngelzarma made his re-election ambition known through a campaign poster that has gone viral among members and supporters of the association, in which he presented his candidacy around the values of experience, unity, service and progress.


The MACBAN president, who is regarded as an ally of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is appealing to members of the association to renew their confidence in his leadership by voting for him in the forthcoming election.


His declaration has attracted solidarity messages and expressions of support from members and stakeholders who believe in his leadership and are rooting for his return for another term.


The election, scheduled for November 14, 2026, is expected to produce the next set of national executives who will steer the affairs of the association and represent the interests of cattle breeders across the country.


Ngelzarma's re-election bid comes at a time when the livestock sector continues to attract national attention, particularly around issues of pastoralism, livestock development, farmer-herder relations, security and the need for sustainable approaches to animal husbandry.


As the election draws closer, attention will be on the candidates and the plans they present to members, especially on how they intend to strengthen the association, promote the welfare of cattle breeders and contribute to efforts aimed at addressing challenges confronting the livestock industry.


For Ngelzarma, the November 14 election presents an opportunity to secure another mandate and continue the leadership journey he began as president of the association.

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Abuja’s retail and small business economy receives a major boost as the 2026 edition of the Women in Business (WIB) Trade Fair kicks off, starting from November 5th to   November 8th  at the Eagles Square, Abuja 


The annual fair, organised by OKADS Seafood and More, under the leadership of Ebiere Empere, its CEO, has grown into one of Abuja’s largest business exhibitions, attracting hundreds of exhibitors and thousands of buyers.


This year's edition brought together over 165 vendors and thousands of customers from within and outside Abuja, providing women entrepreneurs with a platform to expand their market reach, build life changing networks, boost sales, and gain visibility.


Last year’s edition, hosted at the Moshood Abiola Stadium in Abuja, was described as a “beehive of activity,” with exhibitors recording strong patronage and increased profits.

This year, organisers say the move to the Eagles Square venue was deliberate and strategic, accommodating the rising interest from vendors and visitors within Abuja and its environs.


Speaking at the opening ceremony, the CEO of Okads Foods and More and the Convener of the Fair, Mrs  Ebiere Empere (ACA), said the fair is expected to be one of the largest trade expos in Abuja in recent times;


“Exhibitors are coming not just from Abuja but from neighbouring states, creating fresh markets and networks for their brands. We are ready to match the energy we saw last year, and more.”


In a bid to support grassroots businesses, at least 50 local market women were given stands at no cost, ensuring wider participation and inclusivity.


The event also features a mix of attractions, including a shopping extravaganza, a traditional village market, a service centre, an entertainment hub, and a dedicated kiddies’ zone.


Organisers also highlighted that the fair is strategically timed to give consumers a chance to make bulk purchases before year-end price increases, a common trend in the Nigerian market.


Declaring the trade fair Open, the special guest of honor and the Director,  Niger- Delta Development Commission laison office, Abuja, Mrs. Mary Naweke Efekhoba, said 

Women in business drive global and local economies, leadership, and entrepreneurship, with active networks and organizations, shaping growth across regions like Nigeria and globally.

She urged the vendors and buyers to take full advantage of the trade fair as it offers opportunities for Showcasing new products, clear out inventory, and offer exclusive, discounted deals directly to interested buyers.


Notable Personalities at the opening ceremony include; Dr. Pabraebiowei Empere, husband of the Convener, Mrs. Evening Eyong; creative Director,

Representatives of sponsors and partners such as; United Nigeria Airlines, Lapo Microfinance Bank, Nigeria revenue service, Maltina, Regent MFB, etc.


This year's edition celebrates the power of collective strength, highlighting how women can empower each other on a shared journey to success.


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Barely 24 hours after Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, commissioned the Rapid Response Squad, the Kano State Multi-Agency Task Force on Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking has seized approximately 3,180,000 capsules suspected to be Pregabalin in the Sabon Gari area of Kano.


The seizure followed credible intelligence received through one of the reporting platforms linked to the Task Force Command and Call Centre, just hours after the Rapid Response Squad was officially launched by the state Governor.


A statement issued by Lamara Garba, Secretary, Media and Publicity Committee, Kano State Multi-Agency Task Force on Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, on Saturday said that, acting swiftly on the intelligence, operatives of the Squad identified and searched a residential apartment at No. 13 Apple Avenue, Normansland, Sabon Gari, in Fagge Local Government Area, which was suspected to be used for illicit activities.


During the operation, the operatives recovered approximately 3,180,000 capsules suspected to be Pregabalin and arrested a 34-year-old man identified as Gregory Ogbuji.


The suspect, who is said to be associated with SEEMARK PHARMA LTD, registered under number 2012546, has been charged under Section 249 of the Penal Code. Another suspect allegedly connected to the operation is currently at large.


The Chairman of the Task Force, Muhuyi Magaji Rimin Gado, Esq., described the seizure as a significant early result of the Rapid Response Squad, stressing that it demonstrated the importance of intelligence-led enforcement and effective communication between the public and law enforcement agencies.


According to the Task Force, Pregabalin has emerged as one of the most widely abused drugs in Kano State. Its operational experience indicates that approximately eight out of every 10 drug-related operations involve suspects dependent on or abusing Pregabalin.


The Task Force described the development as a serious public health and security concern, stressing that sustained enforcement, public vigilance and community cooperation would be critical to tackling the growing challenge of substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking in the state.


The latest operation is one of the first major outcomes of the investment in establishing and equipping the Rapid Response Squad, which was designed to provide a coordinated and rapid response to reports of drug abuse, illicit trafficking, thuggery and other related crimes.


The Chairman warned individuals and groups involved in the illicit drug trade to desist, assuring residents that the Task Force would continue to take firm action against offenders without fear or favour.


He also expressed appreciation to members of the public for their prayers, cooperation and continued support, urging residents to make full use of the Task Force’s reporting platforms and Command and Call Centre to provide credible information on suspected drug abuse, trafficking, thuggery and other criminal activities.


He said the cooperation of residents remained essential to strengthening public safety and advancing the state government’s “Kano First” agenda.


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Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has pledged the state’s support for President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027, saying the people are ready to reciprocate the President’s support during their challenging moments.


Fubara said Rivers State had not forgotten Tinubu’s intervention and support during the political crisis that rocked the state, assuring him of their backing as he seeks a renewed mandate.


The governor disclosed this in a statement posted on his X platform on Saturday after welcoming Tinubu to Rivers State for the All Progressives Congress (APC) South-South presidential campaign rally.


He expressed appreciation to the President for his intervention and commitment to restoring peace, stability and development in the state.


“Rivers State has not forgotten your support in our most challenging moments. As you stood with us, we are ready to stand firmly with you as you seek a renewed mandate in 2027,” Fubara said.


The governor said his administration and the people of the state remained committed to building a peaceful, stronger and more prosperous Nigeria.


He also reaffirmed Rivers State’s support for Tinubu, declaring: “Rivers State is with you, Mr President!”


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President Bola Tinubu has congratulated Nigeria’s Flamingos for becoming the first African team to win the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.


The Flamingos defeated Japan 2-1 in Saturday’s 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup final in Rabat, Morocco, to clinch Nigeria’s maiden title in the competition. The President, who received the cheering news upon his return from campaign engagements in Akwa Ibom and Rivers, described the triumph as a proud moment for Nigeria.


He also described the victory as a landmark achievement for African women’s football.

This is contained in a statement issued by Presidential Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga, on Saturday.


“What wonderful news to return home to. Our young girls have conquered the world and given Nigerians everywhere another reason to celebrate our great country.


“To our gallant Flamingos, I say congratulations. You have shown courage, discipline, determination and the Nigerian spirit of never giving up.


“I followed your journey throughout this tournament, and after your semi-final victory, you promised to bring the trophy home.


“Today, you have kept that promise. You believed in yourselves, fought for one another and carried our nation’s flag to the very top of the world.


“Your victory is an inspiration to millions of young Nigerian girls who dream of achieving greatness.


“You have shown them that with hard work, opportunity and determination, they too can reach the highest levels of achievement.

“Today, Nigeria celebrates you. You have written your names in gold, and your country is immensely proud of you,” he said.


Tinubu particularly applauded Awawu Bashiru and Oluebube Umejiaku, whose goals secured the historic victory, while commending the entire squad for their exceptional teamwork.


He also congratulated the coaching crew, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and the National Sports Commission (NSC) for their contributions to the team’s success.


The President reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to investing in grassroots sports development and expanding opportunities for young Nigerians, particularly girls, to discover, nurture and fulfil their potential.


“Congratulations once again, Flamingos. Thank you for making Nigeria proud,” he said. (NAN)


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Seyi Makinde, presidential candidate of the Allied Peoples’ Movement (APM), has asked Nigerians to collect money offered to them by politicians but vote according to their conscience.


Makinde spoke on Saturday at the APM presidential campaign flag-off in Bauchi, urging Nigerians to support the party’s proposed reset agenda.


The Oyo governor said hunger, insecurity, and a lack of inclusiveness were among the country’s major challenges.


“Don’t bother at all when they bring money; it’s your money. Collect it, spend it, but vote your heart. And I know your heart is with us and with APM,” he said.


The presidential candidate said Nigerians who are dissatisfied with the country’s current state should support the APM, adding that his proposed agenda is designed to address the nation’s challenges.


Also speaking, Lawal Daura, the party’s vice-presidential candidate, criticised what he described as politics of deceit and hypocrisy, saying these practices threaten Nigerian democracy.


Daura said the APM’s reset agenda would promote honesty, accountability, and an inclusive government that would accommodate Nigerians regardless of religion, ethnicity, or background.


Bala Mohammed, Bauchi governor and APM national leader, said he and Makinde left the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) over injustice.


Mohammed said Makinde’s proposed reset agenda and government of national unity would address tribalism, religious intolerance, and exclusion in governance.


Yusuf Dantalle, APM national chairman, said women would participate more in politics if Makinde is elected president.


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One person has been killed and five others injured, after suspected thugs attacked a political rally organised by supporters of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in Asaba, Delta state.


The Delta state police command said the incident occurred on Saturday, along Nnebisi road, during a procession organised by the Obidient/OK movement in support of the party’s presidential candidate.


In a statement issued on Saturday, Bright Edafe, police public relations officer in Delta, said the command had commenced an investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and identify those responsible.


The police said they had received intelligence indicating the likelihood of violence before the rally and invited the organisers to a security meeting.


“Prior to the rally, the Command received an intelligence report indicating the likelihood of violence and consequently invited the organisers to a security meeting,” the statement reads.


“During the engagement, they were briefed on the identified security threats and advised against holding an open road procession.


“They were further encouraged to conduct their political activities at a designated venue where appropriate security will be provided for them. However, the organisers ignored this important security advice and proceeded with the road procession.”


The command said it received a distress call at about 12:15pm and deployed officers in the scene, adding that the injured victims were taken to hospital for treatment.


The police also stated that the identities of the victims were yet to be established.


Samuel Erale, Delta state commissioner of police, condemned the violence and urged political parties and their supporters to avoid road processions and liaise with the police ahead of political gatherings.


NDC ALLEGES ATTACK BY ARMED HOODLUMS


The NDC condemned the incident, describing it as a premeditated attack on its supporters during what it called a peaceful “One Million Man March”.


In a statement signed by its media and publicity team, the party alleged that armed hoodlums wielding sticks, knives and machetes disrupted the procession.


“Dozens of our campaign vehicles were vandalised and destroyed. Several party faithful sustained varying degrees of injuries from knife and machete attacks and are currently receiving medical attention in hospitals across the state,” the statement reads.


“We pray for their speedy recovery and assure them that the party stands firmly with them. Let it be stated unequivocally: This was not a clash. This was not a misunderstanding. This was a premeditated, unprovoked and criminal assault on democracy itself.”


The party also claimed that several campaign vehicles were vandalised and that some supporters sustained knife and machete injuries.


The party called on Sheriff Oborevwori, Delta governor, the inspector-general of police and other security agencies to investigate the incident, arrest those responsible and prosecute them.


It also urged security agencies to protect political parties and their supporters from intimidation during campaigns.


The NDC asked its supporters to remain calm and avoid retaliation, saying its response would be through the ballot box.


TheCable

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Nigeria’s U-17 women’s national team, the Flamingos, have defeated Japan 2-1 to win the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco.


The Flamingos secured the historic victory on Saturday at the Mohammed VI Football Complex, Pitch 3, in Rabat, to claim their first title in the competition.


Awawu Bashiru opened the scoring for Nigeria in the 39th minute with a long-range effort that slipped through the hands of the Japanese goalkeeper.


Nigeria doubled their advantage shortly after the restart, with Oluebube Umejiaku finding the net in the 47th minute to put the Flamingos in control.


Japan fought back and reduced the deficit through Fuki Ito in the 80th minute.


The Japanese side pushed for an equaliser, but Nigeria held on to secure the 2-1 victory. The Flamingos also came close to extending their lead late in the game, striking the crossbar from a corner kick.

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President Bola Tinubu has appealed to voters in Rivers state to support his re-election bid in 2027, promising that his administration would usher in a new era of economic prosperity.


Tinubu made the appeal on Saturday at the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential campaign rally in Port Harcourt, Rivers state capital, where he thanked residents for supporting him in the 2023 presidential election.


He said their votes gave him the mandate to govern the country and that he had returned to appreciate their support and seek another four years in office.


“Today again, I return here to say thank you. And seek your support for the second term. I’m seeking that support because you believe in me. You believe that I care for you,” he said.


The president appealed particularly to young people, saying their education, welfare and skills development were important to his administration.


“Your education, your welfare, your skill is extremely important to me, to Nigeria. I assure you, we have started the golden age. The prosperity is here,” he said.


Tinubu said 27 of Nigeria’s 36 states were unable to pay workers’ salaries when he assumed office in May 2023, adding that his administration had reversed the situation and was working towards economic prosperity.


He said the inability of states to pay salaries had affected workers’ families and other dependants.


The president also took a swipe at Atiku Abubakar, former vice-president, questioning how he funded a university while serving in public office.


Tinubu asked how Atiku could have built a university while serving as vice-president and overseeing the country’s economy, questioning whether public resources were used for the project.


“Asking how he builds a university while in office as vice-president, in charge of our economy. Who built the university for him? Is your it money? Is it your effort? A man without moral integrity, latitude, and ethics for the office,” he said.


PRESIDENT PRAISES WIKE, FUBARA


Tinubu commended Nyesom Wike, minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), for his contribution to infrastructure development and support for his administration.


He described Wike as a development partner of his government, praising his commitment, work ethic, and vision.


“Wike is already a development partner of Bola Tinubu administration. He’s doing a wonderful job, committed, very, very hard working, a man with vision who combine that with the mission,” he said.


The president also praised Siminalayi Fubara, Rivers governor, for what he described as his maturity and respect for elders during the political crisis in the state.


Tinubu said Fubara maintained peace after his intervention in the dispute, describing the governor as a committed democrat.


“When we intervened, you respected our position; you maintained peace. You are a committed democrat. Fubara, you will not regret what you have done, as long as all of us are alive,” he said.


TINUBU URGES YOUTHS TO COLLECT PVCs


The president urged young Nigerians to participate actively in the 2027 general election, describing it as a defining moment for their future.


He asked eligible voters who had yet to collect their permanent voter cards (PVCs) to do so, describing the cards as their instrument for influencing the country’s political direction.


“This election is about you. It’s not about me. Your future depends on this election. It is left for you to use the weapon you have. And that weapon is the PVC. If you have not collected yours, please go ahead, collect it,” he said.


Tinubu also said his administration was working to clear outstanding pensions and gratuities inherited from previous governments.


He said retired workers, including engineers, welders and teachers, were receiving their entitlements


“The people that govern before, they left unpaid pensions and gratuity in billions and trillions of naira. That is big clear so that every family is included. We are sharing prosperity already,” he said.


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A lawyer and former National Youth Leader of the African Democratic Congress, Maurice Oru Ebam, has warned that excluding former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar from the 2027 presidential election could trigger widespread protests, political unrest and a national crisis.


Ebam, who issued the warning in a statement on Saturday, said the political reactions and mobilisation witnessed in Sokoto and Kebbi states should serve as a warning to those responsible for safeguarding Nigeria's democracy.


He said the public sentiments surrounding the 2027 elections showed the depth of political emotions in the country, warning against any attempt to prevent eligible candidates from participating in the electoral process.


"Let nobody underestimate the political consequences of excluding Atiku Abubakar from the 2027 presidential ballot," he said.


The political commentator insisted that Nigerians must be allowed to freely choose their leaders through a credible, inclusive and transparent electoral process.


He warned that excluding Atiku through what he described as undemocratic means could undermine public confidence in the electoral system and create tensions across the country.


"If Atiku Abubakar is excluded from the ballot through undemocratic means, the country could face serious political unrest, widespread protests and a crisis of confidence in the electoral process," Ebam said.


He stressed that his warning should not be interpreted as a threat but as an appeal to political actors and electoral authorities to respect democratic principles and citizens' rights.


"This is not a threat. It is a warning about the consequences of undermining democratic participation and the people's right to choose," he added.


Ebam said Nigeria had experienced enough bloodshed, instability and avoidable political crises, urging political leaders not to take actions capable of pushing the country into another period of uncertainty.


He maintained that the 2027 presidential election should be determined by voters rather than political manipulation, intimidation or the exclusion of candidates.


"2027 must be decided by the Nigerian people at the ballot box, not by political manipulation, intimidation or exclusion," he said.


He called on stakeholders to prioritise national stability and democratic participation, insisting that the country's peace should not be sacrificed for political interests.


"Democracy must prevail. Nigeria must not bleed because politicians refuse to respect the people's choices," Ebam stated.

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The Trump administration is offering a reward of up to $20 million for information about Iran’s nuclear program, the U.S. military’s Central Command announced Friday.


The reward, which is being administered through the State Department’s Rewards for Justice national security program, also comes with “possible relocation” for the tipster.


The State Department said it is calling for “information about Iran’s nuclear program, including its facilities, equipment, and associated personnel, such as those in the scientific community, or the movement of any of the above.”


Since the U.S. launched its war with Iran in February, President Donald Trump has repeatedly reiterated that Iran cannot obtain a nuclear weapon.


In its reward form, the State Department noted that according to the United Nations’ International Atomic Energy Agency, Iran’s uranium stockpile is believed to include uranium that has been enriched to 60% purity – “a level that is a short technical step from” the 90% level required to produce nuclear weapons.


“Iran is the only non-nuclear-weapon state to produce uranium at such a high enrichment level,” the State Department said in its Rewards for Justice post. “Experts estimate this quantity, if enriched further, could be enough for several nuclear weapons.”


Iran suspended IAEA inspections following the June 2025 strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities by the U.S. and Israel.


“The regime’s lack of compliance with the IAEA on safeguards obligations has led to the agency’s loss of ‘continuity of knowledge’ regarding Iran’s production and inventory of key components like centrifuges,” the State Department said Friday.


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Rotimi Amaechi, vice-presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), says he would have won the primary contest of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2022 if he had not listened to then President Muhammadu Buhari.


In an interview with Mainland FM, shared on its Instagram on Saturday, Amaechi said Buhari instructed him not to campaign, promising to declare him his preferred candidate.


The former minister of transportation said Buhari’s promise prevented him from entering into deals or agreements with party stakeholders and state governors.


“Anybody would have defeated anybody in that primary. The first mistake that I made at that primary was that I listened to President Buhari. He said to me: ‘Don’t campaign, don’t do anything; I will announce you as my candidate’,” Amaechi said.


“He told me that and put it in writing; when I write my book, I’ll put it out.


“When President Buhari said that to me, I obeyed him because, one, he is my boss; two, if he actually announces anybody, that’s a plus for you, so I didn’t do deals. So, I would have promised the vice-president to this person, the SGF to another, and then we would have gone for this primary and I would have possibly won. I would have had governors on my side. Because I didn’t do deals, Tinubu had a chance to do deals; that is one.”


Amaechi said President Bola Tinubu, eventual winner of the primary and presidential election, exploited religious sentiments to secure support during the APC primary.


He said a delegation of Yoruba Muslims from the south-west approached governors in the north-west for support for Tinubu on religious grounds.


According to him, the delegation argued that northern Muslims had consistently supported southern Christians during elections.


“Two, Tinubu played on religion; I won’t play religious politics. I remember a delegation of southern Yoruba Muslims went and saw the north-west governors and told them, any time there’s an election, you people support southern Christians; when there’s election concerning the north, we all support you; we are Muslims and for the sake of the faith you need to support Tinubu,” he alleged.


“Didn’t you see el-Rufai in a viral video saying this is done for the faith?”


On June 8, 2022, Tinubu was declared winner of the presidential primary election of the All Progressives Congress (APC).


He polled 1,271 votes to defeat 13 other presidential hopefuls.


Amaechi polled 316 votes, with then Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo garnering 235 votes.


Then Senate President Ahmad Lawan secured 152 votes.


Laolu Akande, ex-spokesperson to Osinbajo, recently said Buhari promised to support his principal in the buildup to the APC primary contest.


“On at least four separate occasions, President Buhari personally offered to support the Vice-President, telling him plainly: ‘If I don’t support you, who will I support?’,” Akande had said.


TheCable


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Diewait Ikpechukwu, the ace Nigerian actor, has passed away at the age of 71 following a protracted illness.


The Nollywood star died on Thursday, family sources said.


His death was also confirmed to TheCable Lifestyle on Saturday by Abubakar Yakubu, national president of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN).


While the exact circumstances of his passing remain undisclosed, reports indicate he had been unwell for some time.


Ikpechukwu attended Comprehensive High School in Awo-Omamma, Imo state, and later Kaduna State Polytechnic, where he obtained a higher national diploma (HND) in marketing.


Before turning to acting, Ikpechukwu was a right winger who played football and was invited to the Green Eagles camp in the 1970s. He also featured for Blue Diamonds of Nsukka and Kaduna Rocks.


He served as a team manager, including at Vasco da Gama in Enugu. He eventually moved into radio broadcasting, working as a sports commentator alongside his other pursuits.


In a 2021 interview with The Next Edition, Ikpechukwu recalled turning down the national team invitation because his father wanted him to focus on his education.


His career in Nollywood spanned over 25 years, with appearances in films such as ‘Royal Palace’ (2005), ‘The Guilty’ (2006), ‘Across the River’ (2006), ‘Python King’ (2007), and ‘Ìjé Love’ (2022).


Ikpechukwu’s passing represents yet another loss for Nollywood, especially among the generation of performers who helped define the Nigerian film industry.


TheCable


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Abdulaziz Yari, director-general of the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential campaign council, says Nigerians who are not lazy would have food on their tables, as hunger caused by economic hardship pervades the land.


Yari spoke on Friday during the APC presidential campaign rally in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom state capital.


The former Zamfara governor said food items are readily available in markets.


He asked whether residents of Akwa Ibom have been unable to buy foodstuffs despite soaring prices.


“Just as I said, we have hunger. Let me ask a question here. Akwa Ibom people, from where I came from, we have food in the market,” he said.


“I don’t know, in Akwa Ibom, is there any person who took his money to the market and found out there’s no rice? You didn’t answer me. Is there anybody with money in his pocket who goes to the market to get foodstuffs and says that there’s no foodstuffs in the market?


“If there’s no food in the market, that’s what we are calling hunger. But anyone who is not a lazy person, definitely he would have food on his table.”


Earlier on Thursday in Ekiti, Yari challenged opposition parties to explain how their policies would differ from those of the Tinubu administration.


Defending the government’s economic records, Yari cited what he described as a dip in food prices.


He urged Nigerians to hand Tinubu another opportunity, insisting that the administration’s performance should form the basis of the APC’s campaign.


“As we promised Nigerians, we are going to campaign with our numbers, with what we have done for Nigerians. Based on that, Nigerians, we requested them to give us a second chance,” he said.


Yari added that the party is prepared to defend its record, adding that the opposition should present alternative proposals to Nigerians.


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