Latest News In Nigeria, Nigeria News Today, Your Online Nigerian Newspaper

I’ll forgo salary like Peter Obi if elected Rivers governor, says Lulu-Briggs

2026-10-07T15:54:59.446+01:00

Dumo Lulu-Briggs, governorship candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in Rivers, says he would not receive salary and allowances if elected.

Speaking with journalists in Buguma, headquarters of Asari Toru LGA, Lulu-Briggs said the money would instead be used to support widows across the state.

He added that he would emulate Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the party, in making the sacrifice.

“When we have the opportunity to manage government resources, I can promise Rivers people that their every penny would be accounted for,” he said.

“I will follow the example of my principal, Peter Obi, by refusing to collect the governor’s salary. Instead, those funds will be directed towards programmes and initiatives that will directly benefit the people of Rivers state.

“I’m sure I’m going to be like my principal campaigning for president, Peter Obi. I would not even be asking for any salary. Every month, any salary would go into assisting one widow or the other.”

Lulu-Briggs added that no coalition can override the will of the people if elections are free and fair.

“I am not bothered about any coalition,” he declared.

“I have ultimate confidence in the capacity of Rivers people to make informed decisions. The people know what they want, and they would protect their votes to ensure that every vote counts.

“There was a time when Goliath stood beating his chest and asking, ‘where is that man in Israel?’ Then David came and Goliath fell. So, I am not worried about any coalition. What I know is that the people have lost patience with the current situation and are looking for a new direction.”

On political tensions in the state, Lulu-Briggs said it is the erosion of the unity that once defined the state.

“I don’t understand this obsession with ethnicity,” the governorship candidate said.

“There was a time in Rivers state when we did not know who was Kalabari, who was Ikwerre, who was Ogoni or who was from the riverine communities. We were all brothers and sisters.

“Today, we have become so disunited and spiteful of one another because some people believe ethnicity is the ultimate truth. It is not. Ethnicity, like religion and other social identities, cannot be the foundation for building a successful state.”

Lulu-Briggs said his administration would create an inclusive political environment.

“We must open up the political space and give everybody a fair chance. Rivers belongs to all of us. We have inter-ethnic marriages, our children belong to different ethnic groups, and our future is tied together. The governor must be deliberate in promoting peace, inclusion and unity,” he noted.

Lulu-Briggs added that economic growth can only be achieved through effective governance and strategic investments in people.

“If you don’t get governance right, you won’t get the economy right. If governance fails, the economy would be a lie,” he said.

“We are going to invest in human opportunity. We would equip our young people with the skills they need to compete and succeed in a highly competitive world.

“If you need N2 million, N10 million, N20 million or even N30 million to grow a viable business, we would create systems that make such support available through interest-free loans and structured financing.

“When we grow the state’s economy from where it is today to where it should be, almost every home can become a workshop, a place of productivity and innovation. That means more opportunities for our young people.”

2027: 1000 Islamic clerics ask Tinubu to withdraw from race

2026-10-07T15:41:41.117+01:00

More than 1000 Islamic clerics have asked President Bola Tinubu not to contest in 2027.

The clerics, in a communique after a meeting in Kano, said the poor state of the economy and insecurity have made life hard for Nigerians.

The meeting was tagged ‘An Assessment of the State of the Nation under President Tinubu and the 2027 General Elections’.

This is coming after two Islamic groups – JIBWIS and the Qadiriyya Sufi sect – endorsed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima for 2027. The groups endorsed Tinubu when Senator Abdulaziz Yari, Director General of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Campaign Council, visited them.

But the clerics, under the aegis of Ko Da Naka… For the Struggle to Promote Good Governance and Community Development and AFAQ Educational Foundation, said they are not happy with how Tinubu is running the country.

According to them, removal of fuel subsidy, the floating of the naira, increase in electricity tariff and tax reforms have worsened hardship for ordinary Nigerians.

“It is unfortunate that the government has continued to insist on pursuing these policies, which are increasing hardship among the people, rather than reviewing and correcting them. The government prioritised the growth of its revenue at a time when the rising cost of living and unemployment are threatening the lives and well-being of citizens.

“Consequently, participants at the conference unanimously agreed that it would be inappropriate to re-elect this government in the forthcoming 2027 general elections if it does not change its harmful economic policies,” parts of the communique read.

Those planning to rig 2027 elections have a surprise coming - Lawal Daura

2026-10-07T15:34:21.720+01:00

Lawal Daura, vice-presidential candidate of the Allied Peoples’ Movement (APM), says the 2027 elections must not be won through electoral manipulation.

Daura spoke on Tuesday at the launch of the national campaign management committee (NCMC) of the Makinde-Daura Presidential Campaign Organisation (MDPCO).

The former director-general of the Department of State Services (DSS) said attempts to rig the 2027 elections would be resisted, adding that those behind such plans “have a surprise coming”.

Daura said the number of registered voters in Nigeria has surpassed 100 million, describing the figure as significant for the 2027 elections.

“For us that are in the political arena, it is something very, very important. What matters is that we are struggling to ensure we are courting the majority of these voters. And, of course, without anybody reminding us, we know it’s a herculean task. We are aiming to get nothing less than two-thirds of the 103 million,” he said.

Daura said political parties seeking votes should focus on convincing Nigerians through their programmes and the quality of their candidates rather than looking for shortcuts.

“Well, this time around, the struggle is for real. We are not going to let them escape with it. We must make sure that everything is done in accordance with the law and the Electoral Act. And for those who really want to rig, that they can pull a fast one, well, they have a surprise coming,” he said.

Daura said the party’s objective is to “reset” Nigeria, describing the task as requiring people with “quality, focus, determination” and a strong resolve to succeed.

Also speaking, Felix Hyat, director-general of the campaign council, said the team is made up of people prepared to confront the challenges facing the country.

He urged young Nigerians to reject political choices based solely on religion, ethnicity or regional sentiments.

“You have to think, and think, you have a future. You are the one to protect it. Nobody is going to protect it for you,” Hayat said.

Yusuf Dantalle, national chairman of the APM, advised members of the campaign organisation to work with the party’s structures to achieve victory, noting that the goal is to deliver Makinde and Daura and subsequently form the government in 2027.

He said though disagreements may arise within the campaign, the ability to manage internal differences would determine the organisation’s strength.

Dantalle asked the newly inaugurated members of the campaign committee to see their appointment as the beginning of the work rather than an achievement.

Emefiele trial: CBN withdrew N124.86bn without recourse to any government office, witness tells court

2026-10-07T15:34:15.572+01:00

A director in the federal ministry of finance has told a Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court in Maitama that the ministry and the office of the accountant-general of the federation (OAGF) were unaware of the withdrawal of N124.86 billion from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

At the proceedings on Tuesday, Ali Mohammed, who testified as the 10th prosecution witness (PW10) in the trial of Godwin Emefiele, former CBN governor, told the court that the transaction was classified in the ministry’s records as a direct debit by the apex bank.

Mohammed was led in evidence by Abbas Mohammed, counsel for the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

He said the ministry became aware of the transaction after receiving a letter from the investigation team concerning N154 billion said to have been withdrawn by the CBN.

Mohammed said he contacted the three divisions under his supervision to determine whether they were aware of the transaction.

According to him, none of the divisions had knowledge of the transaction, noting that the state and public finance investment division oversees the CBN.

Mohammed said he subsequently wrote, through the permanent secretary, to the OAGF to establish whether the office was aware of the transaction.

He said the OAGF responded that it was not aware of the transaction and indicated that the money was a direct credit from the CBN.

The witness said he relied on the response from the office of the accountant-general before responding to the special investigator.

The documents exchanged between the ministry and the OAGF were tendered by the prosecution and admitted in evidence after Olalekan Ojo, defence counsel, said he had no objection.

Explaining one of the documents, Mohammed said it showed that the N124.86 billion withdrawal was not known to the federal ministry of finance.

He also explained the meaning of the reference to a “direct debit” in the document.

“Direct debit means it was withdrawn from the Central Bank of Nigeria without recourse of any office in Nigeria. That is what it means,” he said.

Mohammed said the OAGF, which is supervised by the finance ministry, would ordinarily receive a directive before a withdrawal was made.

He added that the letter did not indicate that the finance ministry had directed the OAGF to make the withdrawal, particularly from the consolidated evenue fund.

Earlier, Hamisu Abdullahi, director of banking services at the CBN and PW9, continued his testimony.

The prosecution referred him to an email he had mentioned during cross-examination on May 4, 2026.

Abdullahi said the email was generated from the CBN’s computer system, certified as a true copy and accompanied by a certificate of compliance.

He said the email conveyed a directive from the then CBN governor to recover N1.4 billion debit in the receivables account from the consolidated revenue fund.

The witness identified the document when it was shown to him, while the prosecution subsequently tendered the email and its accompanying certificate.

Ojo did not object to their admission, and Maryanne Anineh, presiding judge, admitted them as Exhibits AH1 and AH2.

Abdullahi was thereafter discharged from the witness box.

The court adjourned the case until Wednesday for cross-examination and continuation of trial.

Emefiele is being prosecuted by the EFCC on a four-count charge bordering on alleged disobedience to lawful directives and unlawful acts allegedly causing harm to members of the public in connection with the naira redesign policy.

Osun Accord Candidate Launches 335-Man Campaign Team, Names Adeleke Patron

2026-10-07T15:15:57.024+01:00

Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has been named a patron of the 335-member campaign council unveiled by Accord Party House of Representatives candidate, Pelumi Olajengbesi, ahead of the January 2027 election in the Oriade/Obokun Federal Constituency.

Olajengbesi, a lawyer and former spokesperson for Adeleke’s 2026 governorship campaign, announced the council’s formation on Wednesday via his Facebook page.

He said the team brings together political stakeholders, professionals, community leaders, women, youths, students, and grassroots mobilisers across the constituency.

Other patrons include Kazeem Akinleye and Dele Faseru. The council will be chaired by Osun State Commissioner for Environment, Mayowa Adejorin, with Commissioner for Cooperative and Empowerment, Bayo Ogungbangbe, as deputy chairman.

Adesoji Baderin was named Director-General, while Ladesuyi Tope and Sola Adeyekun will serve as deputy directors-general for Obokun and Oriade respectively.

The campaign council is structured into 20 committees covering political strategy, grassroots mobilisation, ward coordination, youth and women affairs, media, digital communication, research, legal compliance, election monitoring, finance, logistics, security, professional engagement, students, religious groups, party affairs, and diaspora outreach.

Among the committee heads are Ayodeji Areola (Elders and Stakeholder Engagement), Adekusibe Okeowo (Strategy and Political Planning), Yemisi Itiola (Mobilisation and Field Operations), Soji Bejide (Ward Coordination), Osundokun Osundare (Youth Mobilisation), Roseline Adeyemi (Women Mobilisation), Tope Abiola (Media and Publicity), and Niyi Odinna (Digital and New Media).

Olajengbesi is seeking to unseat incumbent Wole Oke, who has represented the constituency in the House of Representatives for over two decades.

The newly constituted council is expected to drive campaign activities, political engagement, and grassroots mobilisation ahead of the 2027 polls.

SDP Halts Campaign for One Week to Mourn NAF Crash Victims

2026-10-07T14:57:13.491+01:00

The Adebayo-Bugaje Presidential Campaign of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) has suspended all campaign activities for one week in honour of victims of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) aircraft crash in Igbokoda, Ondo State.

The ATR-42 aircraft went down on Monday in the coastal riverine area, claiming 25 lives.

Announcing the suspension in Abuja, the Head of Media and Communications Directorate, Comrade Mark Adebayo, said the decision was taken as a mark of respect for the fallen personnel and solidarity with the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

The campaign described the incident as a “monumental national tragedy,” stressing that politics must give way to mourning and reflection.

SDP presidential candidate Prince Adewole Adebayo and his running mate, Prof. Usman Bugaje, have condoled with the Chief of Air Staff, the Nigerian Air Force leadership, and families of the victims.

“We stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the Nigerian Air Force and the families left behind,” they said, praying for fortitude and comfort for the bereaved.During the mourning period, all rallies, town hall meetings, stakeholder engagements, and media appearances will be suspended.

The campaign also urged government to adopt a comprehensive insurance policy for military and security personnel, while calling for stricter maintenance of aircraft and equipment to prevent avoidable tragedies.

“The sacrifices of our gallant officers must be matched with concrete welfare and safety measures,” the statement added.

2027: INEC announces date to release final list of Gov, Assembly candidates

2026-10-07T13:41:59.099+01:00

The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, says it will publish the final list of candidates contesting the 2027 governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections on Saturday, October 10, 2026.

In a post on X on Wednesday, the commission said its chairman, Professor Joash Amupitan, made the revelation during a world press conference in Abuja on Tuesday.

It said the publication would mark an important stage in its preparations for the 2027 general elections, with political parties expected to have their candidates formally confirmed for the state-level contests.

The electoral body also provided updates on the number of political parties that had submitted candidates, the voter register, Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), election technology and funding.

According to INEC, 21 of the 22 registered political parties nominated candidates for the governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections.

The parties submitted 936 governorship and deputy governorship candidates and 9,692 candidates for various State House of Assembly seats.

The commission had earlier published the personal particulars of the nominated candidates as required under the electoral timetable.

The final list is expected to reflect subsequent withdrawals, substitutions and other changes that occurred during the nomination process.

“18 of the 22 registered political parties submitted 36 presidential and vice-presidential candidates, while the Final List of Candidates for the National Assembly was published on 12th September 2026.

“The final list for governorship and State Houses of Assembly candidates will be published on 10th October 2026,” INEC said.

Ebola alert: NCDC issues warning after Kenya confirms imported case

2026-10-07T13:27:25.883+01:00

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, NCDC, has warned Nigerians to remain vigilant and observe preventive measures to reduce the risk of viral disease infection and transmission.

This is as the agency said it had increased national surveillance and preparedness measures following the confirmation of an imported case of Ebola in Kenya.

The case, caused by the Bundibugyo virus, is linked to an ongoing outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo, DRC, raising concerns about the disease’s potential international spread.

In a statement, the NCDC said that, as of October 6, 2026, no case of Ebola had been confirmed in Nigeria.

However, the agency said it was reviewing the risk posed to Nigeria and strengthening preparedness measures in collaboration with relevant government authorities and partners.

The NCDC advised members of the public to practise regular hand hygiene by washing their hands with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitiser.

The agency also warned against contact with the blood or other body fluids of anyone who is ill, as well as contact with the body of a person who has died from an unknown illness.

It further advised Nigerians to avoid handling sick or dead wild animals and to refrain from eating raw or poorly cooked bushmeat.

The NCDC urged anyone who develops symptoms suggestive of Ebola or becomes ill after a potential exposure to seek medical attention promptly at a recognised health facility.

The agency said continued vigilance and early reporting remained critical to ensuring that any potential case was detected and managed promptly.

Ebola is a severe viral disease that can cause serious illness and death, with transmission occurring primarily through direct contact with the blood or body fluids of an infected person or animal.

‘Produce evidence’ — Olu of Warri rejects Asari Dokubo’s N2.7trn pipeline surveillance claim

2026-10-07T13:24:58.121+01:00

Ogiame Atuwatse III, the Olu of Warri, has rejected Asari Dokubo’s claim that the monarch receives N2.7 trillion annually from pipeline surveillance contracts.

In a statement on Tuesday, the Olu, through Collins Edema, his sole representative to NNPC Limited and its joint venture partners, challenged Dokubo to produce documentary evidence to support the claim.

Dokubo had alleged that the Olu of Warri and other individuals receive the sum annually for pipeline surveillance.

But Edema described the claim as extraordinary and challenged Dokubo to provide evidence to support same.

“For the avoidance of doubt, the allegation that the Olu of Warri receives N2.7 trillion annually from pipeline surveillance contracts is categorically rejected,” the statement reads.

“We challenge Mr Dokubo to produce the documentary evidence upon which this extraordinary claim is based.”

Edema also questioned the manner in which Dokubo made the allegation, citing his history in the Niger Delta and his style of public commentary.

He said Dokubo’s public image has been associated with militancy, confrontation and an uncompromising approach to political expression.

The monarch also said Dokubo’s political identity was shaped during the period of militancy and armed agitation in the Niger Delta, while his rhetoric has retained some of the combative character of that era.

“His language is frequently categorical, provocative and insufficiently restrained,” he said.

“That style may command attention, but attention should not be confused with credibility, and forcefulness should not be mistaken for evidence.”

Edema, however, cautioned against dismissing Dokubo’s claim solely because of his background.

“The temptation should not be to dismiss everything Dokubo says simply because of his militant past. That would be intellectually lazy,” he said.

“Equally, neither should his reputation as a fierce Niger Delta voice confer automatic credibility on his allegations. His claims must stand or fall on the quality of the evidence supporting them.”

Edema also pointed to what he described as changes in Dokubo’s position on Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, and the wider Gbaramatu-Itsekiri dispute.

He said Dokubo previously criticised Tompolo over the pipeline security arrangement and the wider dispute, but recently defended him against criticism while directing allegations elsewhere.

The monarch said the shifts did not by themselves establish bad faith, but argued that they raised questions about what had changed and what evidence supports Dokubo’s current position.

The statement also said the allegation should be considered in the context of the wider importance of pipeline surveillance contracts.

“Pipeline surveillance contracts in Nigeria are not ordinary commercial arrangements,” Edema said.

CALL FOR PROBE

Edema said Nigeria’s oil and gas infrastructure is a critical national asset, adding that pipeline security has implications for crude oil production, government revenue, foreign exchange earnings and the stability of the economy.

He called for relevant contracts, procurement processes, corporate records, government approvals, performance reports and regulatory documents to be examined if concerns exist over pipeline-security arrangements.

“If wrongdoing is alleged, the appropriate institutions should investigate and establish the facts,” he said.

“And if no wrongdoing is established, politically charged allegations should not be allowed to substitute for evidence.”

The Olu’s representative also warned that statements concerning the Olu of Warri, Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited (PINL), Tompolo and other actors could have consequences in the politically and ethnically sensitive Niger Delta.

“The Niger Delta has paid a heavy price for politics conducted through confrontation and inflammatory rhetoric. It would be deeply unfortunate if old habits of militancy and unguarded speech were allowed to reopen ethnic anxieties that responsible stakeholders are trying to put behind them,” the statement added.

“Ijaw, Itsekiri and Urhobo relations require responsible leadership, not rhetoric that can easily be interpreted as provocation.”

Edema said the central issue is whether Dokubo’s allegation could withstand independent scrutiny.

“Whoever makes the allegation should provide the evidence. Whoever is accused should have the opportunity to respond,” he added.

“Pipeline security is ultimately about more than contracts. It is about protecting national assets, safeguarding economic activity and securing an important part of Nigeria’s economic survival.”

US, Saudi Arabia condole with Nigeria over NAF plane crash

2026-10-07T13:24:51.571+01:00

The United States and Saudi Arabia have condoled with Nigeria over the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) aircraft that crashed in Igbokoda, Ondo state on Monday, killing all the 2o personnel and five crew members on board.

The aircraft was on a routine mission from Benin City to Lagos when it crashed in Igbokoda, headquarters of Ilaje LGA.

Ehimen Ejodame, director of public relations and information at NAF, said the aircraft had 20 personnel and five crew members. No survivors were found.

He added that Kelvin Aneke, the chief of air staff, had directed a comprehensive investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the accident.

In a statement on Tuesday, the US mission in Nigeria condoled with the families, friends, and colleagues of the deceased NAF personnel.

“We stand with the people of Nigeria and remain committed to our strong security partnership,” the statement reads.

In a separate statement, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia also expressed its sympathies to Nigeria over the accident.

“The Kingdom expresses its solidarity with the families of the deceased and with the Government and people of Nigeria in this grave tragedy and wishes continued safety and security for Nigeria and its brotherly people,” the statement reads.

President Bola Tinubu had declared three days of national mourning for personnel who died in the crash.

FG Releases Eight Months’ Arrears After SSANU Ultimatum

2026-10-07T12:54:11.223+01:00

The Federal Government has approved the release of eight months’ salary arrears to members of the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU), just two days after the union issued a 14-day ultimatum over the implementation of the 2026 FGN/SSANU Agreement.

SSANU, in a communiqué after its 56th National Executive Council meeting in Uyo, had demanded immediate payment of outstanding Consolidated University Teaching and Tertiary Institutions Salary Structure (CONTTA) arrears, warning of an indefinite strike if the government failed to act.

Confirming the release, SSANU President, Comrade Mohammed Haruna Ibrahim, hailed the intervention of the Minister of Education, Dr. Maruf Tunji Alausa, describing it as proof that constructive engagement backed by swift government action can safeguard industrial harmony.

Among SSANU’s demands were:Payment of withheld salaries from the 2022 industrial action.

Settlement of arrears arising from the 25% and 35% salary increases.Full implementation of CONTTA across federal and state-owned universities.

While welcoming the release of arrears, SSANU stressed that the government must still settle the outstanding two months’ withheld salaries and one-year arrears from salary increases.

The union warned that selective or delayed implementation could trigger unrest in the university system.Ibrahim urged members to liaise with their university managements to ensure prompt and transparent payment, promising that the union would continue to pursue workers’ welfare through lawful and constitutional means.

SSANU reaffirmed its commitment to industrial peace but insisted that agreements must be faithfully implemented to strengthen confidence in Nigeria’s university system.

US Death Row Inmate Survives Execution Attempt, Regains Consciousness

2026-10-07T12:50:30.003+01:00

Christa Pike, a 50-year-old death row inmate in Tennessee, has regained consciousness after surviving a failed execution attempt last week, her lawyers confirmed on Tuesday.

Pike, sentenced to death for a 1995 murder committed as a teenager, received two lethal doses of pentobarbital but did not die. She was rushed to hospital, where she remained unconscious and on a ventilator before unexpectedly recovering.

Her legal team described her survival as “against all odds,” noting that while she is now speaking, her prognosis remains uncertain and a long recovery is expected.

They have renewed calls for Governor Bill Lee to commute her sentence to life imprisonment and are seeking a court order to preserve all evidence related to the failed execution.

The incident has reignited debate over the death penalty in the US. Tennessee has suspended executions pending an independent investigation, and the state’s prison chief has resigned.

Advocates, including the US Campaign to End the Death Penalty, say the case highlights systemic flaws and secrecy in execution procedures.

Medical experts suggest the failure may have been due to Pike’s small veins, which complicated IV insertion, or degraded drugs.

Her lawyers reported her arms turned purple and she felt burning during the procedure, indicating the drug may have leaked into tissue rather than entering her bloodstream.

According to the Death Penalty Information Center, Pike is the first inmate to survive after being injected with lethal doses of execution drugs.

Her case drew attention as she would have been the first woman executed in Tennessee in more than 200 years.So far in 2026, 29 executions have been carried out in the US, all by lethal injection.

The death penalty remains abolished in 23 states, with moratoriums in three others.

FCT Workers Embark on Indefinite Strike Over Labour Disputes

2026-10-07T12:44:09.274+01:00

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, has ordered all workers in the FCT Administration including those in the private sector to begin an indefinite strike from Wednesday.

The directive follows the expiration of a seven-day ultimatum issued to the Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, over unresolved labour disputes and policy grievances affecting teachers.

Council Chairman, Knabayi Adalo, announced the decision in a communique after an emergency State Executive Council meeting, stating that the strike became necessary due to the administration’s failure to meet workers’ demands.

Among the key demands are:

Abolition of vacancy clause for teachers’ promotions, which the union says has caused career stagnation.Withdrawal of redeployment and demotion letters issued to directors under the Education Secretariat who benefited from the Harmonised Retirement Age for Teachers Act, 2022.

Reconsideration of 2025 eligible teachers to sit for promotion exams alongside the 2026 batch.Dissolution and reinstatement of management teams at the FCT Secondary Education Board (SEB) and Universal Basic Education Board (UBEB).

Adalo criticized the FCT Administration’s response as “dismissive and unacceptable,” noting that it ignored the issue of illegal redeployment of senior directors and failed to address the controversial vacancy clause.He directed that all schools, hospitals, offices, and government establishments across the FCTA remain closed until the union’s demands are met.

Affiliate unions in both public and private sectors have been instructed to ensure full compliance, with enforcement committees set up to monitor adherence.

Adalo assured workers that no one would face victimisation for participating in the strike, urging them to remain resolute until their grievances are addressed.

2027: Donald Duke Vows to Cut Petrol Price to ₦300 if Elected as President

2026-10-07T12:39:33.261+01:00

Former Cross River State Governor and presidential candidate of the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), Donald Duke, has pledged to reduce the price of petrol to about ₦300 per litre if elected president in 2027.

Speaking on Channels Television’s Morning Brief programme, Duke criticized the current pricing model, describing Nigeria’s subsidy regime as “a scam.”

He argued that petroleum products for local consumption should be priced based on production costs rather than international market rates.

“The production cost is about $45 per barrel, including refining. Yet Nigerians are forced to pay prices pegged to international benchmarks, which is unfair,” he said.

Duke noted that high fuel costs were worsening economic hardship, especially for low-income earners.

“The minimum wage is ₦70,000, and filling a tank of fuel consumes nearly an entire salary. Nigerians are among the poorest globally, and this policy suffocates them,” he added.

Outlining his plan, Duke said he would allocate part of Nigeria’s crude oil output for domestic use while selling the remainder internationally.

“If Nigeria consumes 600,000 barrels daily, allocate that internally and sell the other one million barrels abroad,” he explained.

Industry data shows Nigeria produces an average of 1.68 million barrels of crude oil per day, while the country consumes about 60.2 million litres of petrol daily.

Duke believes his pricing model would ease the burden on citizens and form a key pillar of his broader economic agenda.

Wike, Fubara, Chinda hold four-hour reconciliation meeting in Port Harcourt

2026-10-07T12:04:50.725+01:00

Nyesom Wike, minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT); Kingsley Chinda, APC governorship candidate in Rivers; and their supporters met with Siminalayi Fubara, the state governor, and members of his political camp as part of ongoing reconciliation efforts.

The Rivers government has been at loggerheads with the state house of assembly — whose members are loyal to Wike.

In March 2025, President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers and suspended Fubara, his deputy, and the lawmakers following a protracted political crisis in the state.

The president lifted the emergency in September 2025 and reinstated the governor and the state house of assembly.

DETAILS OF LATEST MEETING UNDISCLOSED

The closed-door meeting, which held in Port Harcourt, the Rivers state capital, lasted about four hours and brought together key figures and supporters from the feuding camps.

Wike and Chinda arrived at the governor’s residence with their supporters at about 4pm and joined Fubara and his supporters for the discussions.

It was the first time Fubara would be hosting or personally participating in a reconciliation meeting involving his supporters, a significant development in efforts to consolidate the emerging rapprochement in the state.

The meeting followed years of political disagreements that deepened divisions among political actors and supporters, including the prolonged dispute between Fubara and members of the Rivers state house of assembly.

With tensions between the camps now significantly reduced, the latest engagement is viewed as part of efforts to move beyond past differences and build a more coordinated political relationship among the various interests.

The meeting ended at about 8pm, but none of the participants addressed journalists afterwards.

Neither Wike, Chinda and their supporters, nor Fubara and his team disclosed details of the discussions or the specific outcome of the meeting.

The meeting comes against the backdrop of Wike’s recent comments that Fubara had corrected his political mistakes by returning to the political family that produced him as governor.

The FCT minister said he had anticipated Fubara’s return, arguing that the governor had no viable political alternative outside the platform that brought him to power.

“He has publicly stated that he has returned to where he started, and we receive him with an open mind,” he said.

“There is nothing to hide. We will all work together to ensure that we deliver the votes President Tinubu needs for his re-election.”

Ondo deploys swamp buggies to recover wreckage of crashed NAF aircraft

2026-10-07T11:57:03.885+01:00

The Ondo state government says it has deployed two specialised swamp buggies to retrieve the wreckage of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) aircraft that crashed in Igbokoda, headquarters of Ilaje LGA, on Monday.

Swamp buggies are specialised vehicles designed to move through swamps, marshes and other waterlogged or muddy terrain.

Speaking with journalists on Tuesday at the crash site, Banji Ajaka, Ondo state commissioner for health, said conventional vehicles and boats could not access the location where the aircraft crashed.

Ajaka said security agencies, local authorities and emergency responders had been involved in the search and recovery operation since the incident occurred.

He said the difficult swampy terrain had slowed the operation, necessitating the deployment of specialised equipment capable of moving through waterlogged ground.

“The latest is that the swamp buggy has been deployed. Two of them are here now because that’s what is needed,” Ajaka said.

“It’s not an easy thing. It’s not something that you can just take a vehicle or a speedboat to.”

The commissioner said the specialised machines would be used to reach the depth where the aircraft had sunk and facilitate the recovery of the wreckage and other materials.

“You can see that this one comes with a low bed. I brought it. This one has to float and swim down to the other side so that they can get to the depth where the body of the aircraft is,” he said.

He attributed the difficulty in recovering the aircraft to the force of the impact and its weight, saying it had sunk deep into the swamp.

“It has gone down. You know the force, the weight and the force with which it went down. So, that is what we’re doing now. There is no delay. We are deploying as fast as possible,” he said.

The commissioner said senior military officers, including naval and air force commanders, as well as the state commissioner for environment, were at the scene to coordinate the recovery efforts.

He added that divers had commenced underwater operations and were recovering portions of the wreckage, noting that the deeper sections of the aircraft remained inaccessible until the swamp could be excavated.

“The divers are doing their work. We are bringing wrecks out,” he said.

“For the body, the real body, this has to go down. We have to excavate deep down for the aircraft to be brought out.

“We have not seen a major body. By the time we bring the body out, we will be able to see the corpses.”

Ajaka described the crash as a “sad situation”, extending the state government’s condolences to the NAF, the Armed Forces, the affected families and the people of Ondo.

He said the aircraft, an ATR-42 with tail number NGR 931, crashed about 500 metres east of the Nigerian Naval Forward Operating Base in Igbokoda after the pilots apparently diverted it away from the densely populated community.

According to him, the pilots’ decision to divert the aircraft may have prevented what could have been a far greater tragedy in the coastal town, given the number of people onboard.

The NAF said 20 passengers and five crew members were onboard the aircraft when it crashed near a naval base in Igbokoda.

Passenger dies on Kenya Airways flight to Lagos

2026-10-07T11:57:00.000+01:00

Kenya Airways says a passenger died aboard its flight from Nairobi, Kenya, to Lagos on Tuesday.

In a statement on Wednesday, the airline said the passenger became unresponsive about 20 minutes before the aircraft landed at Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos.

“Our crew administered first aid as per their training and followed all emergency procedures,” the statement reads.

“Upon landing at Murtala Muhammed International Airport at 21:41 hrs, the aircraft was met by medical personnel, and upon further examination, the medical personnel confirmed that the passenger had passed away.”

Kenya Airways expressed condolences to the family and friends of the deceased and apologised for any inconvenience the incident may have caused.

“We uphold and respect the privacy and dignity for all involved,” the airline added.

The airline said it is providing the necessary support in close coordination with the deceased’s family, local authorities, and aviation regulators.

‘Matter under police investigation’ — Nana Akua Addo addresses viral ‘domestic violence’ videos

2026-10-07T11:56:29.376+01:00

Nana Akua Addo, the Ghanian actress and fashion personality, has broken her silence over viral videos and reports of alleged domestic violence involving her.

On Tuesday, multiple reports alleged that the actress had been hospitalised after an alleged assault by her husband. In a viral video, she appeared with a swollen lip, a cut beneath her eye, and blood on her white clothes.

Several other videos captured her in a dispute with her husband and his family over what appeared to be a DNA matter. Another clip appeared to capture her husband beating her daughter.

Reacting to the clips in a letter by her representatives, the German-born Ghanaian actress revealed that the matter is now being investigated by the Ghanaian police.

Her representatives urged media houses and the public to refrain from further sharing the videos, saying it could affect the mental wellbeing of the victims, who are already “dealing with enough trauma”.

“Our attention has been drawn to several harrowing videos circulating on social media, showing our client and her children embroiled in a domestic dispute. These videos were leaked without our client’s knowledge and consent and are a deep violation of her privacy and that of her children who are all minors,” the letter reads in part.

“We humbly request that all media houses refrain from publishing and sharing the videos especially the ones showing the abuse of a minor. This is a delicate matter involving young children and as such we are counting on your responsible journalism to safeguard the mental wellbeing of the victims of this unfortunate turn of events who are already dealing with enough trauma.

“Please note that the matter is currently sub judice and in the hands of the appropriate authorities. We are grateful for the timely intervention and responsiveness of Ghana Police and are confident in the competence of our court systems to stand up against domestic violence in our society.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by NANA AKUA ADDO (@nanaakuaaddo)

‎”At the appropriate time our client will address all pertinent issues, in the meantime we ask that the media and the general public respect the privacy of the family as they deal with this difficult situation. Thank you for your attention to the matter.”

Army Repels ISWAP Attack in Borno, Neutralises 25 Terrorists

2026-10-07T11:30:25.521+01:00

Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have successfully repelled a coordinated assault by Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters in Kukawa, Borno State, killing more than 25 terrorists and recovering weapons.

The insurgents launched the attack on the 101 Special Forces Battalion from four directions, but soldiers, supported by the Air Component, responded with superior firepower and tactical manoeuvres that overwhelmed the attackers.

Acting Military Information Officer, Captain Mohammed Goni, confirmed in a statement that preliminary assessments showed over 25 terrorists were neutralised, with 14 bodies recovered so far.

Six AK-47 rifles and other ammunition were seized during the operation.The Army acknowledged that some soldiers lost their lives in the encounter and extended condolences to their families, praising their courage and sacrifice.

Military authorities said the successful defence demonstrated the resilience of troops in the North-East theatre and highlighted the effectiveness of joint air-ground coordination.

They pledged to sustain pressure on terrorist groups through aggressive patrols, intelligence-led operations, and coordinated offensives with other security agencies.

According to the Army, ongoing operations aim to dismantle terrorist networks, protect communities, and safeguard national security.

‘It’s evident in our lives, leaders have failed’ – Agbakoba advises Nigerians on 2027

2026-10-07T11:12:06.426+01:00

Former President of the Nigerian Bar Association, NBA, Olisa Agbakoba, SAN, has urged Nigerians to make informed choices when electing leaders in the 2027 presidential election.

Agbakoba said the country’s persistent challenges, including rising food prices, inadequate healthcare, a struggling education system and limited employment opportunities, made it necessary for Nigerians to carefully assess the candidates seeking their votes.

The legal practitioner made the remarks in a post on X on Wednesday while discussing the forthcoming 2027 general election.

He said Nigerians should not assume that their votes cannot influence the direction of the country, arguing that citizens have the power to determine who leads them through the ballot box.

Agbakoba noted that Nigeria’s large population compared with the relatively small number of politicians meant that citizens ultimately held the power to select their representatives.

However, he expressed concern that voters sometimes give away their votes without considering the consequences of their choices.

According to him, such decisions could result in elected officials taking actions that do not reflect the interests or needs of the people.

He urged Nigerians to pay attention to the character, leadership capacity and ability of presidential candidates to bring about meaningful changes, rather than their ethnic or other backgrounds.

Agbakoba said: “As we approach this critical time, we need to choose our leaders carefully. In the past, our choices have not always served us well, and the consequences are evident in our daily lives.

“Look around; some of the major issues we face include rising food costs, inadequate healthcare, a struggling education system, and a lack of job opportunities, especially for our growing youth population. These challenges are significant, and the politicians we elect play a vital role in addressing them.

“It doesn’t matter where candidates come from or what they look like; what matters is their ability to lead with discipline, inspire change, and make a meaningful impact.”

He added that Nigerians could create change by making informed decisions at the ballot box.

Agbakoba’s call comes as political parties and potential presidential candidates begin positioning ahead of the 2027 general election.

Atiku’s Aide ‘Apologises’ for Calling Tinubu ‘Bola’, Suggests ‘Amoda’

2026-10-07T10:51:53.716+01:00

Paul Ibe, media aide to the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress, ADC, Atiku Abubakar, has reacted sarcastically to criticism over his reference to President Bola Tinubu as “Bola.”

Ibe, in a post on X on Wednesday, said he apologised for using the name, adding that he should perhaps have referred to the president as “Amoda,” a name he said had long been associated with Tinubu.

“I ‘apologise’ for calling Tinubu ‘Bola.’

“I had no idea four letters could cause this much national distress.

“Perhaps I should have said ‘Amoda’ — the foundational name long associated with him,” Ibe wrote.

He further said the controversies surrounding Tinubu’s name, background, certificates, records and documents had made addressing the president appear to require additional explanations.

“So, ‘correction’ duly noted: ‘Bola’ was apparently too familiar. ‘Amoda’ is disputed. Tinubu it is — pending further documentation,” he added.

The post comes amid renewed political exchanges between supporters of the Tinubu administration and opposition figures ahead of the 2027 general election.

Tinubu’s educational records have been the subject of political controversy over the years, with opponents and supporters offering differing interpretations of issues surrounding his name and personal records.

‘Nigeria’s Problems Are Spiritual, Don’t Blame Youths for Supporting Peter Obi’ – Fr Mbaka

2026-10-07T10:51:50.933+01:00

Catholic priest and founder of the Adoration Ministry Enugu Nigeria, AMEN, Rev. Fr. Ejike Mbaka has described Nigeria’s challenges as “spiritual”, saying the country’s youths should not be blamed for supporting the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, Mr Peter Obi.

Mbaka made the remarks in a video recorded during one of his church programmes.

The cleric said Nigeria was endowed with abundant human and natural resources but had failed to translate its wealth into improved living conditions for its citizens.

“Like what Nigeria is passing through now, Nigeria’s case is a spiritual one. We may not understand it,” Mbaka said.

He described Nigeria as one of the most blessed countries in the world, particularly in terms of its human resources, saying the country had “the best youths”, whose potential remained largely unrecognised.

According to him, Nigeria also has vast mineral resources, including gold and coal, yet many Nigerians continue to live in poverty and face inadequate electricity supply.

“Enugu is sitting upon a multi-trillion-dollar worth of coal, yet the indigenes of the city are all poor,” he said.

Mbaka also criticised successive governments over policies and actions that, according to him, have negatively affected poor Nigerians, including the demolition of shops and disputes over land.

He further attributed the country’s insecurity challenges, including kidnapping, to political factors.

The Catholic priest said Nigerian youths were naturally industrious and should therefore not be blamed for rallying behind Obi.

“That’s why nobody should blame Nigerian youths when all of them started following Peter Obi because they are looking for whoever will save them,” Mbaka said.

Video

INEC staff least paid in Nigeria, says Amupitan

2026-10-07T10:51:45.089+01:00

Josh Amupitan, chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), says the commission’s staff are the least paid in Nigeria.

Amupitan spoke on Tuesday at a press conference and national stakeholders’ meeting in Abuja

He said the commission had taken “radical steps” to improve the welfare of its personnel, including removing them from the civil service salary structure.

“INEC staff is the least paid in Nigeria. So, we felt if we want to demand and hold our staff responsible, we should give them a living wage,” he said.

“And that is why we have taken some very radical steps to ensure that the welfare of INEC staff is prioritised.

Amupitan said INEC have been removed from the civil service payment structure to allow the commission to operate under a separate electoral and salary structure.

He noted the move was part of efforts to address gaps identified within the commission and improve the electoral system.

“We are not called civil servants. What we have learnt under the civil service payment structure, which we have just removed INEC from, is to have their own separate structure, electoral structure, and separate salary structure from the civil service,” Amupitan said.

“So, those are some of the gaps. There are many others that we have discovered. And we felt that if they address them, it will be able to solve some of the problems we have with the system.”

On rerun elections, Amupitan said the process is a constitutional requirement that must be factored into election planning.

“The issue of rerun is a constitutional matter. And as we are planning for the election, you have to plan for rerun,” he said.

“So, it’s there, the procedure, the protocol, everything is there in the constitution.”

Bandits Kill Police Inspector in Katsina Attack on Travellers

2026-10-07T10:30:07.415+01:00

Suspected bandits have killed a police inspector during an attack on travellers in the Shagari area of Katsina State, underscoring the persistent insecurity on rural roads in the region

.According to eyewitness accounts shared on X, the armed men were spotted moving through farmlands toward Sanyin Nawal village early in the morning.

They reportedly stopped vehicles, robbed passengers, and later rested at a nearby pond where they ate food and drank Maltina before setting a motorcycle ablaze.

Later in the day, around Maghrib, the attackers allegedly ambushed another passenger vehicle and opened fire.

Inspector Isah Muhammad Girkau was struck by a bullet during the assault and died from his injuries.Despite ongoing security operations, several roads leading to rural communities in Katsina remain vulnerable to bandit attacks, leaving travellers exposed to violence and disruption.

Power Generation Drops 37%, DISCOs Lose ₦129bn Amid 184,000 Consumer Complaints

2026-10-07T10:13:06.459+01:00

Nigeria’s electricity supply has taken a sharp hit as power generation fell by 37.17% to 3,885.72 megawatts (MW), leaving households and businesses grappling with worsening blackouts.

The decline comes just weeks after the Minister of Power, Joseph Tegbe, announced a peak generation of 5,330MW in August and September, raising concerns about the sustainability of recent gains in the sector.

According to data from the Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO), the drop is expected to further strain distribution networks, forcing consumers to rely more heavily on generators amid rising fuel costs.

Meanwhile, the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) reported that electricity consumers filed 184,024 complaints in the first half of 2026, with metering, billing, and service interruptions topping the list.

In Q2 alone, complaints rose slightly to 92,407, with an 80% resolution rate.Distribution companies (DISCOs) also face mounting financial challenges.

NERC revealed that Aggregate Technical, Commercial, and Collection (ATC&C) losses stood at 36.23% in Q2, far above the 16.92% target.

This translated into a revenue loss of ₦129.07 billion across the sector. Kaduna DISCO recorded the worst performance, with losses of 67.70% against a target of 18.18%.

Ikeja Electric, in a statement, attributed reduced supply hours to shortfalls in power allocation from the national grid, assuring customers that efforts were ongoing to improve distribution.

The worsening supply situation underscores the persistent structural issues in Nigeria’s power sector, where generation gains are often undermined by distribution inefficiencies and financial losses.

US, WHO seek clarity on suspected plague as Russia offers scanty details

2026-10-07T09:51:04.829+01:00

The United States and the World Health Organisation (WHO) are seeking more information from Russia over suspected cases of plague, as Moscow remains largely silent on the reported infections.

The pressure comes after authorities said a female worker at the Irkutsk Anti-Plague Institute of Siberia and the Far East, Russia, died from a “pneumonia of undetermined” origin last week.

There have been varying reports as to how the lab worker contracted the suspected plague. One media report said she reportedly told medical staff that she had accidentally broken a test tube containing live bacteria while collecting samples for testing. Another said she undertook a field trip to a region where plague occurs naturally among wild rodents.

Dmitry Peskov, Kremlin spokesperson, dismissed the reports as rumours and speculation, saying an official statement would be issued by the Rospotrebnadzor, Russia’s national public health and consumer rights agency.

Rospotrebnadzor has said laboratory analysis of material from the patient did not reveal any microorganisms associated with her work handling dangerous pathogens.

There have been claims of a second pneumonia case linked to the lab.

In a statement, Rospotrebnadzor said no emergency or security breach occurred, adding that no other infectious disease complaints had been registered among institute employees over the preceding 10 days.

The statement did not, however, specify if the lab worker’s pneumonia and death were caused by any other disease or how she may have contracted the illness.

US, WHO PRESS FOR MORE DETAILS

Speaking to reporters outside the White House on Tuesday, US President Donald Trump said he has a call scheduled with Vladmir Putin, his Russian counterpart, “very soon”.

Asked if US intelligence agencies have any details on the incident, the president said “we are in very deep discussions,” adding that his administration will be able to offer more details “probably tomorrow”.

Marco Rubio, secretary of state, said the information from Russia was “still quite limited” and urged the country to practice transparency.

“Maybe there’s nothing there. Maybe it’s bigger than we thought. We don’t know,” Rubio said.

The secretary of state warned that Moscow’s failure to disclose details about the lab worker’s death violates international health obligations

Travel between the US and Russia is very limited and the American Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says there is no indication of a broader threat to the US.

However, the agency said it is prepared and will continue to monitor the situation closely.

In a separate statement, Tedros Ghebreyesus, WHO director-general, said the global health watchdog has requested further information from Russian authorities to clarify the cause of the severe pneumonia, the pathogen that prompted the public health measures, and media reports of a second employee with pneumonia of undetermined cause.

“Timely, complete and transparent information sharing under the International Health Regulations is essential to clarify conflicting reports and enable an accurate assessment of potential public health risks,” Ghebreyesus said.

A European Commission spokesperson also said Europe is “very closely” monitoring the case.

The plague bacterium killed up to half the population of Europe in the 14th century when it was known as the Black Death. It is found among rodents such as marmots in the area.

It was in response to an outbreak in the 1920s that the Anti-Plague Institute of Siberia and the Far East was founded just more than 100 years ago.

Nearly 200 people are said to have been placed under medical observation since the lab worker’s death.

NNPCL may overwhelm us like Dangote Refinery on NSE – Shettima suggests

2026-10-07T09:51:02.546+01:00

The Vice President, Kashim Shettima, on Tuesday, hinted at the possible impact of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, NNPCL, being listed on the Nigerian Stock Exchange.

Shettima, while addressing the Group Chief Executive Officer of the NNPCL, Bayo Ojulari, said the company may overwhelm Nigerians, just like the Dangote Refinery did when listed on the Nigerian Stock Exchange.

The vice president spoke while representing President Bola Tinubu at the 5th anniversary celebration of the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission, NUPRC, in Abuja.

According to Shettima: “The Chairman, management and staff of NUPRC and of course my very good friend, Bayo Ojulari of the NNPCL.

“I learnt that you are going to the stock market very soon, so you will overwhelm us the way Dangote did.”

Recently, Tinubu had confirmed plans to list the entirety of NNPCL, rather than just separate subsidiaries or business arms on the Nigerian stock exchange.

The move was modelled after Saudi Arabia’s Aramco to drive commercial efficiency and global competitiveness.

The measure was also rooted in the corporate restructuring mandated by the Petroleum Industry Act, PIA, of 2021.

Similarly, Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals recently officially launched its Initial Public Offering, IPO.

The offer, which was branded the “People’s IPO,” officially opened on September 14, 2026, and is scheduled to close on October 13, 2026.

The company is offering 4.1 billion ordinary shares at a fixed price of N525 per share, with the aim to raise N2.15 trillion.

The primary goal of the capital raise is to fund the expansion of the refinery’s processing capacity from 700,000 barrels per day to 1.4 million barrels per day by 2029.

Four states have approved state police bill - Tinubu’s aide

2026-10-07T09:51:01.327+01:00

Nnadubem Moghalu, senior special assistant to President Bola Tinubu on planning and research, says four states have approved the constitutional amendment bill seeking to establish state police.

The secretary of the presidential working group on the national policing bill spoke on Tuesday in Abuja at the parliamentary lecture organised by the house of representatives press corps.

He said so far, Edo, Rivers, Osun, and Oyo had approved the bill, which must be endorsed by at least 24 state houses of assembly before the constitutional alteration can take effect.

“The required threshold is twenty-four states. The constitutional process continues until that threshold is met. The distinction between that constitutional amendment and the national policing bill we are now working on is important. The amendment would create a constitutional basis for the dual policing model,” he said.

“The national policing bill is intended to provide the operational framework through which that constitutional model can work. State legislation and the practical work of building capable institutions must follow within the resulting legal framework.”

He also cautioned against governors using state police to target political opponents or local majorities deploying security forces against minorities, saying the law must clearly define authority and provide mechanisms to punish abuse.

Henry Nwawuba, executive secretary of the National Assembly Library Trust Fund, said lawmakers must move beyond expressions of sympathy over insecurity and embrace legislative solutions.

“We can’t keep saying our thoughts and prayers are with the victims of insecurity and we call ourselves legislators,” he said.

Ndudi Elumelu, former minority leader of the house of representatives, backed the reform but underscored the need for safeguards to ensure professionalism, accountability, human rights protection, adequate training and freedom from political interference.

Akin Rotimi, spokesperson of the house of representatives who represented Tajudeen Abbas, the speaker, urged the media and parliament to subject the proposal to rigorous scrutiny based on its principles, provisions and consequences rather than the identity of its sponsors or supporters.

Grace Ike, chairperson of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), said policing closer to communities could produce more tailored responses to local security challenges, provided there are effective oversight, funding and accountability mechanisms.

Enugu Court Remands Man for Filming Attack on NDC Members

2026-10-07T08:30:42.387+01:00

A Magistrate’s Court in Enugu East has ordered the remand of 45-year-old Ani Chidi for allegedly recording and circulating video footage of an attack on members of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) during a political meeting in Obuoffia Awkunanaw.

Chidi was arraigned by the Enugu State Police Command on Monday on three counts of cybercrime and criminal defamation under Section 24(2)(a)&(c)(i) of the Cybercrime Act, 2015 (as amended in 2024).

According to the charge sheet, the defendant was accused of publishing video evidence of the September 12, 2026 attack across social media platforms and online outlets, while allegedly making false claims that three individuals were part of the armed group that disrupted the meeting.

Following the arraignment, Chief Magistrate F. E. Chukwu ordered Chidi’s remand in prison custody.

The NDC, however, condemned the prosecution, accusing the police of targeting a witness who captured evidence of the violence while releasing suspected perpetrators of the gun attack.

In a statement signed by Sampson Ukwu, media aide to the party’s governorship candidate, Sir Christian Chinyeaka Ohaa, the NDC described the development as “a malicious abuse of judicial process” and urged law enforcement agencies to conduct a fair and independent investigation.

The party further alleged that state authorities were attempting to silence crucial witnesses, warning Governor Peter Mbah’s administration to “stop suffocating the people” and allow justice to prevail.

Makinde’s Presidential Bid Dead on Arrival – Oyo APC Guber Candidate

2026-10-07T08:23:44.568+01:00

Senator Sharafadeen Alli, the All Progressives Congress (APC) gubernatorial candidate in Oyo State, has dismissed Governor Seyi Makinde’s presidential bid as “dead on arrival.”

Alli, who represents Oyo South Senatorial District, made the remark in a statement issued by his campaign spokesman, Bisi Oladele, on Tuesday.

Makinde is contesting the presidency under the Allied Peoples Movement (APM). However, Alli argued that recent political developments, including Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed’s public commendation of President Bola Tinubu’s performance, have exposed the weakness of Makinde’s ambition.

According to Alli, Makinde’s candidacy appears to be “a smokescreen for negotiation” rather than a serious bid for power. He added that the governor’s campaign is collapsing under contradictions, especially as political allies validate the achievements of the incumbent president.

“For Governor Makinde, the political message could not be clearer. His presidential campaign is collapsing under the weight of its own contradictions before the real contest has even begun,” Alli said.

He urged Makinde to focus on his stewardship in Oyo State, stressing that the people are more concerned about his legacy as governor than his presidential aspirations.