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2027: APC to Deploy 4.4 Million Polling Unit Officials for Tinubu’s Re-election — Uzodinma

2026-06-10T22:14:38.842+01:00

Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma has disclosed that the All Progressives Congress (APC) plans to deploy approximately 4.4 million polling unit officials as part of its strategy to secure President Bola Tinubu’s re-election in the 2027 general elections.

Speaking at a recent party event, Governor Uzodinma emphasised the ruling party’s commitment to mobilising a massive grassroots structure to ensure victory at the polls.

He described the deployment as a key component of the APC’s preparation to dominate every polling unit across the country.

The announcement underscores the APC’s early and aggressive positioning ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

With Nigeria’s electoral system requiring officials and agents at hundreds of thousands of polling units nationwide, the figure of 4.4 million suggests an ambitious plan that includes core party officials, ad-hoc staff, and reserve agents to guarantee strong representation and minimise any potential gaps on election day.

Political observers note that such large-scale mobilisation is typical for major parties in Nigerian elections, where ground-level presence often plays a decisive role in voter turnout and result management.

However, critics may view the early declaration as a sign of over-confidence or an attempt to psychologically dominate the political space well before the official campaign period.

Further details on the exact breakdown of the 4.4 million figure or the timeline for training and deployment of these officials isn't yet ascertained.

Defect to APC or Resign, Adamawa Gov Issues Ultimatum to Appointees

2026-06-10T20:11:05.825+01:00

Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Fintiri has given political appointees in his administration a stark choice: defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC) or resign their positions immediately.

In a statement issued on Wednesday by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Humwashi Wonosikou, the government directed all political office holders who have declared allegiance to or defected to other political parties to submit their resignation letters to the Office of the Secretary to the State Government within 48 hours.

The directive aims to maintain loyalty, discipline, and the integrity of public service. According to the statement, appointees are expected to fully support the policies, programmes, and political direction of the current administration.

“Continued service by persons who have aligned with another party poses a clear risk of sabotage, information leakage, and obstruction of policy implementation and party strategy,” the statement read.

It further warned that failure to comply within the stipulated time would lead to immediate termination of appointments, stoppage of salaries and entitlements, and additional administrative actions.

The Office of the Secretary to the State Government and the Head of Service have been tasked with compiling a list of affected appointees for monitoring.

The move comes after Governor Fintiri defected to the APC, while many of his appointees remained in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) or joined other parties, reportedly working against the APC in the state.

Governor Fintiri emphasised that public office is held in trust and must align with the vision and mandate of the administration, adding that divided loyalty would not be tolerated.

Senate Orders Arrest of Ex-NNPCL Boss Mele Kyari Over N210tn Unaccounted Funds

2026-06-10T20:09:38.550+01:00

The Senate Committee on Public Accounts has ordered the arrest of former Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kyari, for repeatedly failing to appear before it to explain allegations of N210 trillion in unaccounted funds between 2017 and 2023.

The directive was issued on Wednesday during an investigative hearing into queries raised by the Office of the Auditor-General of the Federation regarding the company’s financial records for the period under review.

Kyari’s absence prompted the committee to rule against further delays, leading to the issuance of a warrant for his arrest and production before the panel.

During the sitting, some senators, including Saliu Mustapha (Kwara Central) and Tony Nwoye (Anambra North), appealed for caution, noting that Kyari was reportedly ill and receiving treatment in Germany. They urged the committee to grant him another opportunity to appear.

However, other members strongly opposed the plea. Senator Abdul Ningi (Bauchi Central) insisted that verbal excuses were unacceptable without documented proof, while Senator Victor Umeh (Anambra Central) formally moved the motion for Kyari’s arrest.

The motion was seconded by Deputy Chairman Senator Peter Nwaebonyi (Ebonyi North).

Senator Adams Oshiomhole (Edo North) also backed the decision, warning that the Senate risked diminishing its authority if it failed to enforce compliance with its summons.

“Some people believe they are bigger than Nigeria. The law must be effective when it catches the lion, not only when it catches the rabbit,” he said.

Chairman of the committee, Senator Ibrahim Dankwambo (Gombe North), subsequently ruled that Kyari should be arrested wherever he is and brought before the committee.

At the centre of the probe are alleged financial discrepancies totalling N210 trillion flagged in NNPCL’s accounts. However, the former Chief Financial Officer of the NNPCL, Umar Isa, who appeared before the committee, challenged the figure, describing it as misleading.

Isa insisted that no funds were missing and noted that NNPCL’s total revenue for the period was about ₦54.5 trillion before production costs.

He argued that publishing audited accounts would have been impossible if such a massive sum had disappeared.

The committee directed Isa and former Chief Upstream Investment Officer Bala Wunti to reappear before it within two weeks as the investigation continues.

APC Chieftain Downplays Iyabo Obasanjo’s Exit, Throws Full Weight Behind Yayi

2026-06-10T18:17:03.642+01:00

A prominent All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain in Ogun State and Convener of the Ogun West Initiative, Bolaji Adeniji, has dismissed the resignation of former Senator Prof. Iyabo Obasanjo from the party, saying her exit will have no negative impact on the APC’s chances in the 2027 governorship election.

Speaking at a media briefing in Abeokuta on Wednesday, Adeniji expressed strong confidence in the party’s consensus governorship candidate, Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola, popularly known as Yayi.

Iyabo Obasanjo, daughter of former President Olusegun Obasanjo and a former Senator representing Ogun Central, recently resigned from the APC after failing to emerge as the party’s governorship candidate.

In her resignation letter, she accused the party leadership of disrespect, rejection, and unfair treatment.

Adeniji, however, argued that her departure was inconsequential, noting that she had not made any significant investment or contribution to the growth of the APC in Ogun State.

“She has no investment in the party, no stake in its growth, and no contribution to its electoral goodwill; therefore, her departure changes nothing and will not in any measure affect the fortunes of Yayi and the APC,” he said.

He questioned the expectation that someone who, according to him, had been politically inactive for over 15 years and only joined the APC less than six months ago could clinch the ticket ahead of long-standing members who had laboured for the party.

Adeniji described Yayi’s emergence as the APC candidate as transparent, peaceful, and historic.

He noted that Adeola enjoyed overwhelming support from across the state, including Governor Dapo Abiodun and other key stakeholders, and was returned with a massive 304,055 votes.

He criticised another aspirant, Abayomi Hunye, for challenging the primary outcome in court, describing the legal action as lacking merit, and urged him to rejoin the party and work for its success.

Adeniji also dismissed any threat from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Ladi Adebutu, and rejected attempts to revive questions about Yayi’s indigeneship. “Yayi is a genuine son of Yewa, Ogun State… Yayi represents competence, vision and progress,” he added.

The APC stalwart expressed optimism that the party would retain power in Ogun State in 2027, emphasising unity and continued delivery of good governance.

2027: Donald Duke Blames Bad Leadership for Nigeria’s Insecurity

2026-06-10T18:09:56.327+01:00

Former Cross River State Governor and Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) presidential candidate, Donald Duke, has attributed Nigeria’s escalating insecurity and the payment of approximately N2 trillion in ransoms to kidnappers in 2025 to years of failed and self-serving leadership.

Duke made the remarks on Wednesday in Abuja while accepting the PRP’s presidential nomination during the presentation of certificates of return and party flags to the party’s candidates for the 2027 general elections.

He painted a grim picture of the country’s security situation, stating that criminal elements now wield more influence than the government in some areas.

“Our land has become so desolate that bandits, gangsters and kidnappers collect taxes while the government collects excuses,” Duke said.

Citing figures from the National Bureau of Statistics, he noted that the N2 trillion paid as ransom to kidnappers in 2025 alone was equivalent to about 10 per cent of the entire federal budget.

The former governor blamed successive leaders for failing to do the right thing at the right time.

“All this is because our leaders have failed to do what is right when it was right and for whom it was right. At the end of the day, the best politics is, and always will be, doing the right thing not the expedient thing,” he added.

Duke pledged to prioritise security and the welfare of ordinary Nigerians if elected, promising a Nigeria where farmers can return safely from their fields and children have access to quality education.

He positioned the PRP as a party for the common man, vowing to champion the cause of ordinary citizens against political elites.

“The scavengers have had their turn. Now it is the turn of the common man, the true Nigerian… And I, Donald Duke, seek to be their champion,” he declared.

PRP National Chairman, Dr Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, described Duke as the party’s best choice to lead Nigeria’s revival, emphasising the candidates’ commitment to selfless service and turning the country around.

FCT Police Neutralize Two Kidnappers, Rescue Five Hostages in Kubwa Gun Battle

2026-06-10T18:03:22.523+01:00

Operatives of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command have successfully neutralized two suspected kidnappers and arrested two others during a fierce gun duel in the Byazhin and Kubwa areas of Abuja.

The operation, personally led by Commissioner of Police CP Ahmed Muhammed Sanusi on Tuesday night, involved teams from the Anti-Kidnapping Unit, the Intelligence Response Team (IRT), Kubwa Area Command, as well as local hunters and vigilante groups.

It was launched in response to recent kidnapping incidents in the Paze community within Byazhin.

According to the FCT Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, the joint team conducted an intensive search and clearance operation around 9:00 p.m.

The security forces engaged the kidnappers in a shootout, killing two suspects on the spot. Two others, identified as Icheh Mohammadu and Abubakar Usman, were arrested. Other gang members fled into nearby hills with gunshot wounds.

Two AK-47 rifles and magazines were recovered during the operation. The pressure from the security team forced the criminals to abandon five kidnapped victims, who were rescued unharmed and taken to a hospital for medical checks before being reunited with their families.

The FCT Police Command has urged hospitals and the public to report any individuals seeking treatment for gunshot wounds under suspicious circumstances.

Search operations are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspects and dismantle the entire criminal network.

This swift action highlights the FCT Police's continued efforts to tackle kidnapping and restore security in the nation's capital.

Ugochinyere loses Minority Leader bid in House of Reps

2026-06-10T17:51:45.221+01:00

The lawmaker representing Ideato North/Ideato South Federal Constituency in Imo State, Ikeagwuonu Ugochinyere (also known as Ikenga Ugochinyere), has lost his bid to become Minority Leader of the House of Representatives.

On Wednesday, the House passed a resolution at plenary barring first-term lawmakers from holding principal offices.

The resolution followed the adoption of a motion sponsored by Babajimi Benson, who represents the Ikorodu Federal Constituency in Lagos State.

The resolution clarified Order 7, Rule 15 of the Standing Orders of the House of Representatives, which states that only members with cognate legislative experience shall be eligible for appointment as principal officers.

This decision effectively disqualifies first-term members, including Ugochinyere of the Action Peoples Party (APP), from contesting for the Minority Leader position.

Ugochinyere had been nominated last week by some opposition lawmakers to succeed Kingsley Chinda, who stepped down after emerging as the APC governorship candidate for Rivers State.

The move comes amid reported controversies, including allegations of signature forgery on the nomination document.

This development reshapes the leadership race within the minority caucus for the 10th Assembly.

BREAKING: Panic at National Assembly as Fire Breaks Out Moments After Senate Screening

2026-06-10T17:23:59.213+01:00

The National Assembly complex was thrown into chaos on Wednesday when a fire erupted in the Senate wing shortly after a high-profile screening exercise.

The incident occurred at Hearing Room 107, just minutes after the Senate Committee on the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) concluded the screening of Dr. Zainab Marwa, a nominee to represent the North-East on the commission’s board.

Eyewitness video footage captured National Assembly staff swiftly responding with fire extinguishers to bring the blaze under control. No injuries or casualties were reported as of the time of filing.

According to reports, the fire is believed to have been caused by a microwave left switched on in a nearby kitchen area.

In the aftermath, committee officials reportedly instructed journalists covering the proceedings to delete photographs and video recordings of the incident.

The quick intervention by staff prevented what could have been a more serious situation in one of Nigeria’s key democratic institutions. Further investigations are expected to determine the exact cause and assess any potential damage.

Okonkwo to Obi: Suing Your Ex-Spokesperson Unwise — I May be Forced to Divulge Confidential Information

2026-06-10T16:48:13.716+01:00

Kenneth Okonkwo, a chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and former spokesperson for Peter Obi’s 2023 presidential campaign, has warned that he may be forced to disclose confidential information if Obi, the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, proceeds with a defamation lawsuit against him.

In a series of posts on X, Okonkwo described the threat of a lawsuit from his former principal as “very unwise,” noting that suing one’s former spokesperson for defamation carries significant risks.

Recent Rift

The dispute escalated after Okonkwo appeared on Channels Television on Monday, where he alleged that Peter Obi and the South-East caucus of the NDC demanded bribes from House of Representatives and Senate aspirants of the party in exchange for tickets.

Okonkwo specifically referenced a message from NDC House of Representatives aspirant Obunike Ohaegbu in Anambra, claiming Obi had scammed him of ₦10 million.Ohaegbu, however, appeared on the same programme the following day and denied the allegation.

He clarified that he paid the ₦10 million into the NDC’s official bank account based on instructions from the party’s national secretary, not directly to Obi.Obi’s Response and Okonkwo’s RejoinderIn response to Okonkwo’s claims, Obi’s legal team threatened to sue him, demanding ₦5 billion in general, aggravated, and exemplary damages for the alleged injury to Obi’s reputation.

Okonkwo hit back strongly on X, sharing screenshots of WhatsApp conversations with a contact saved as “Obunike Ohaegbu.” He stood by his earlier statements, insisting that Ohaegbu had told him he was scammed during the NDC primaries and held Obi responsible.

The Nollywood actor-turned-politician further taunted Obi, suggesting he should privately seek financial assistance for a potential 2027 presidential campaign rather than pursue a ₦5 billion lawsuit.“If Peter Obi is looking for money to campaign, he should privately ask me for assistance… and I will help him,” Okonkwo wrote. He recalled personally funding his own flight tickets and hotel accommodations while serving as Obi’s spokesperson.

Okonkwo issued a stern warning:

“I have not read the letter. Let me sound this note of warning, the Lawyers must take responsibility for any information I may have to divulge, which I acquired as a spokesperson… Anyone who decides to sue his former Spokesperson for defamation is indeed very unwise.”

He dared Obi and his lawyers to proceed to court, stating it would be “a shame to Peter Obi and his Lawyers if they do not take this case to court.”

Edo Shuts Three Secondary Schools Over Planned Student Abduction

2026-06-10T16:38:28.481+01:00

The Edo State Government has ordered the immediate closure of three secondary schools in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area following credible intelligence of an imminent mass abduction plot targeting students.

The decision was announced on Wednesday after the Department of State Services (DSS) raised the alarm over planned attacks in the Edo North senatorial district.

The affected schools are Ososo Grammar School, Ososo Comprehensive High School, and Makeke Secondary School.

In a circular issued by Enodolomwanyi Otamere, Permanent Secretary of the Edo State Ministry of Education, the government said it received security advisories from relevant agencies warning of threats to students, teachers, and surrounding communities.

“All academic and non-academic activities in the affected schools have been suspended until further notice,” the statement said.

However, candidates writing the ongoing West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) will be allowed to sit their papers under strict security arrangements provided by security agencies and community stakeholders.

School principals have been directed to ensure the orderly release of students to their parents or guardians, secure school facilities, and maintain close liaison with government and security agencies.

The ministry urged parents and residents in the affected communities to remain calm and cooperate fully with security operatives as efforts are made to neutralise the threat.

The closure comes amid rising concerns over the increasing wave of bandit attacks on schools across Nigeria.

In recent weeks, similar incidents were recorded in Oyo and Borno states, where dozens of students and teachers were abducted, with some killed.

The Edo State Government says the measure is a proactive step to safeguard lives and property. Normal academic activities are expected to resume once the security situation is stabilised.

Bandits Disrupt WAEC Exam, Kill Vice Principal, Two Others in Kogi School

2026-06-10T16:34:23.798+01:00

Three people, including a school vice principal and a six-year-old boy, were killed on Wednesday when armed bandits invaded a secondary school in Kogi State, disrupting an ongoing West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE).

The attack occurred at Government Secondary School, Iluke Bunu, in Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area.

According to the Kogi State Police Command, a large group of heavily armed bandits arrived on about 40 motorcycles around 10 a.m. with the apparent aim of abducting students and residents.Security forces, including police, military personnel, and local vigilantes, swiftly responded and engaged the attackers in a fierce gun battle.

The bandits were forced to retreat into the surrounding bush. One bandit was killed during the exchange, while some security operatives sustained gunshot injuries and are receiving treatment.

Kogi State Commissioner for Information and Communication, Kingsley Fanwo, confirmed that the attackers had begun marching students into the bush before the security intervention halted the attempt.

He praised the joint security teams for preventing what could have been a major mass abduction.

No Mass AbductionPolice spokesperson Saliu Afusat stated that preliminary investigations found no evidence of a successful mass abduction of students or residents.

However, three civilians lost their lives in the attack: Mr. Ganiyu Anifowose, Vice Principal of UBE Secondary/Primary School, Iluke; Mr. Sunday Jacob Alhassan, 70; and six-year-old Sunday Ayele.

The police have launched sustained bush-combing operations and confidence-building patrols in the area to apprehend the fleeing bandits.

The Commissioner of Police has ordered intensified joint operations to restore normalcy.In a statement, the state government vowed not to yield to terror and assured residents of a determined response from security agencies.

It urged the public to remain vigilant and provide timely information to security forces.

The incident adds to growing concerns over bandit attacks on schools across Nigeria. In recent weeks, similar assaults in Oyo and Borno states resulted in the abduction of dozens of students and teachers, along with several deaths.

Authorities continue to investigate the Kogi attack, with further updates expected as operations progress.

Reps to Vote on State Police Bill Thursday

2026-06-10T16:23:17.703+01:00

The House of Representatives will on Thursday vote on a constitutional amendment bill to establish state police across Nigeria, marking a significant step toward decentralising the country’s security architecture.

Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, who also chairs the House Committee on Constitution Review, disclosed this on Wednesday while addressing journalists in Abuja.

He urged all lawmakers to attend Thursday’s plenary session to ensure full participation in the vote.Under the current 1999 Constitution, policing and other security services are exclusively reserved for the federal government under Section 214.

The proposed amendment seeks to move this item to the concurrent list, empowering both the National Assembly and state houses of assembly to make laws on police and related security matters.

Flanked by members of the constitution amendment panel, Kalu emphasised that the legislature is determined to use constitutional tools to tackle the nation’s worsening insecurity.

“Hope is coming. By tomorrow, we will be amending the constitution by prioritising state police. We will vote on state police. Nobody is stopping it,” he declared.

The push for state police has gained renewed momentum amid a recent surge in banditry, kidnapping, and other violent crimes across the country.

On Tuesday, the House summoned service chiefs and National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu over the spike in insecurity.

President Bola Tinubu had in December expressed confidence that state police would significantly improve security nationwide by enabling faster local responses to threats.

For the bill to pass, it requires a two-thirds majority in both chambers of the National Assembly at least 73 senators and 240 members of the House of Representatives and subsequent ratification by a simple majority in at least 24 of the 36 state houses of assembly.

Obasa Denies Sponsoring APC Primary Protests in Lagos

2026-06-10T15:32:20.747+01:00

The Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, has strongly denied any involvement in the protests that erupted after the All Progressives Congress (APC) House of Assembly primaries in the state.Obasa distanced himself from the demonstrations, warning against the misuse of his name to incite or coordinate political agitation.

He described attempts to link him to the unrest as unfair, misleading, and baseless.

The protests, staged by APC members from several local government areas including Badagry, Mushin, Amuwo-Odofin, Eti-Osa, Somolu, Ajeromi-Ifelodun, and Oshodi-Isolo, targeted the party’s secretariat on ACME Road in Ikeja. Protesters alleged irregularities in the conduct and outcomes of the primaries following the release of the candidate lists.

In response to circulating WhatsApp messages accusing him of providing N2 billion to sponsor and coordinate the protests, Obasa dismissed the claims outright.“It is foolhardy, malicious, misleading and baseless for anybody to assume or imply that I will import or mobilise protesters from different local governments to the secretariat. To achieve what exactly?” he questioned. “I am not a candidate in the disputed election, so why and how will I devote such an amount of money to organising protests?”

Obasa reiterated his commitment to peace and unity within the APC, stating that he abhors any use of his name or office for illegality or to create division in the party. He emphasized his focus on promoting harmony and supporting the progress of Lagos State.“My steadfast commitment remains the unity, peace, and progress of our great party and the people of Lagos State,” he said.

The protests represent the latest in a series of demonstrations across Lagos since the APC published its primary election results.

Nigerian Agribusiness Secures $60m Liberia Coffee Deal

2026-06-10T15:26:45.152+01:00

A Nigerian agribusiness firm, JR Farms Group, has signed a major $60 million public-private partnership (PPP) concession agreement with the Government of Liberia to revitalise the country’s coffee sector.

The 20-year deal, signed on Monday in Monrovia, aims to boost agricultural investment, develop the coffee value chain, and drive economic growth in Liberia. Nigerian commercial law firm EandC Legal provided advisory support as lead transaction counsel, guiding legal, regulatory, commercial, and negotiation aspects of the partnership.

Liberia’s Minister of Agriculture, Dr. J. Alexander Nuetah, described the partnership as a significant milestone for reviving the coffee industry, empowering farmers, creating jobs, and unlocking economic opportunities for rural communities.

JR Farms Group Founder and Group CEO, Mr. Olawale Oyeyemi, highlighted the alignment with the company’s vision of expanding African agricultural value chains. He noted Liberia’s rich coffee heritage as the origin of the Liberica variety — and its potential for scaled production and global competitiveness.

The initiative is expected to develop over 250,000 hectares of coffee plantations, plant approximately 200 million coffee trees over the next 20 years, benefit more than 200,000 farmers, and generate around 300,000 direct and indirect jobs. JR Farms will operate primarily in key coffee-producing counties including Nimba, Lofa, and Bong.

EandC Legal’s Founder and Lead Partner, Omoruyi “Uyilaw” Edoigiawerie, praised the deal as an example of strategic public-private collaboration unlocking Africa’s potential and underscored the growing influence of Nigerian firms in cross-border agribusiness investments.

The agreement marks a notable expansion for JR Farms Group in the West African agribusiness landscape and signals stronger regional cooperation in agriculture.

Senate Committee Warns BOA, REA, NSPMC Over Audit Hearing Absences

2026-06-10T15:21:59.142+01:00

The Senate Committee on Public Accounts has threatened sanctions against the Bank of Agriculture (BOA), the Nigerian Security Printing and Minting Company (NSPMC), and the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) for failing to attend a scheduled hearing on unresolved audit queries.

Committee chairman Ibrahim Dankwambo issued the warning after the agencies ignored invitations to appear before lawmakers.

The BOA, through its legal adviser, claimed it had previously engaged with the committee between February 2023 and November 2024 and resolved outstanding issues.

It requested two weeks to compile documents, but Dankwambo rejected the plea, insisting that correspondence must be signed by the bank’s managing director and that only chief executives can represent agencies before the Senate.

Lawmakers ruled that the BOA’s managing director must appear within one week, stressing that unresolved audit concerns remain.

They also directed the NSPMC and REA to attend hearings within the same timeframe, warning that continued disregard for legislative summons undermines accountability.

The committee emphasized that audit queries are constitutional oversight matters and vowed to impose sanctions on any agency that fails to comply.

Formal letters detailing unresolved issues will be dispatched immediately to the affected institutions.

I Won’t Hand Over Deeper Life Church to my Son – Kumuyi

2026-06-10T15:20:07.465+01:00

Pastor William Folorunso Kumuyi, General Superintendent of the Deeper Christian Life Ministry, has dismissed speculation that he plans to hand over leadership of the church to one of his sons.

Speaking during a church service, Kumuyi stressed that the ministry is not a personal enterprise but belongs to Jesus Christ, and therefore cannot be transferred through family succession.

“Many people were speculating, is he going to hand over the church unto his son? Well, it’s not his church. Jesus said, upon this rock, I will build my church… It’s the church of the Lord Jesus Christ and nobody has right to hand it over to his son,” Kumuyi declared.

He cited biblical examples, noting that apostles such as Peter, Paul, and John did not pass church leadership to their children.

Kumuyi’s clarification comes after online discussions suggested he might eventually appoint one of his sons to succeed him.

He insisted that leadership of the ministry would continue to follow divine direction rather than family ties.

Panic in Lagos as Banditry Awareness Drama Triggers Stampede

2026-06-10T15:15:58.143+01:00

Confusion and panic erupted at Ijaiye Ojokoro Junior College in the Ojokoro area of Lagos on Wednesday morning after a classroom demonstration on banditry was mistaken for a genuine attack, sparking a stampede involving students, teachers, and nearby residents.

The incident took place on Tigbetigbe Street during the weekly National Awareness Day programme held in schools across the state. The day's theme focused on banditry, and a teacher reportedly dressed in costume to make the session more practical and engaging by illustrating how bandits appear and operate.

However, the exercise quickly went wrong. As the teacher stepped out of his vehicle and approached the school assembly ground in full costume, students panicked, believing a real bandit had invaded the premises.“As soon as the teacher stepped out of his vehicle and approached the assembly ground, confusion erupted. The students thought he was a real bandit and began running in different directions,” an eyewitness recounted.

The alarm spread rapidly beyond the school, affecting students in three neighbouring schools within the same educational complex. Shouts of “Bandits! Bandits!” prompted many to flee, with some teachers also joining the rush for safety. The chaos spilled into nearby streets, creating widespread disorder.

Worried parents and guardians rushed to the scene after hearing reports of an alleged attack. Rumours of violence spread quickly through the community, with some residents claiming bandits were killing people inside the school.One resident who was on a morning walk described seeing students running frantically. Upon inquiring, he was told bandits had invaded. When he reached the school, a principal clarified that the panic stemmed from the dramatised awareness exercise on banditry.

Local resident Joshua Ekong confirmed that the misunderstanding caused significant anxiety among residents and disrupted normal activities in the area until the true situation was understood.

No injuries were reported in the available accounts, but the event highlighted the sensitivity around security issues in the region and the potential risks of using realistic simulations in awareness programmes.

Arise TV’s Rufai Faults Peter Obi’s Suit Against Kenneth Okonkwo, Gives Reason

2026-06-10T15:12:22.271+01:00

Arise News anchor Rufai Oseni has criticized the defamation lawsuit filed by Peter Obi, the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate, against Kenneth Okonkwo, a chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

Obi’s legal team dragged the actor-turned-politician to court over allegations Okonkwo made during a television interview following the NDC primary elections in the South East. Okonkwo claimed that Obi and other party leaders in the region collected bribes from aspirants vying for House of Representatives and senatorial seats. Obi’s camp strongly denied the claims, issued a seven-day ultimatum for retraction, and reportedly demanded ₦5 billion in damages.

On Arise TV’s morning show, Rufai Oseni described Okonkwo as a “political surrogate” and advised Obi against pursuing the case, arguing it was a waste of time.

Rufai’s key reason: The lawsuit has given the allegations far more publicity than they originally received. He noted that many people were unaware of Okonkwo’s comments until the suit made headlines.

“If I’m to advise Mr Peter Obi, I would ask him to remove that case from the court,” Rufai said. “He doesn’t need [it]. I can bet you that a lot of people did not even hear when Kenneth Okonkwo said it. It became news when Peter Obi sued him.”

“You just gave a media traction to this guy. Allow him to talk as he wants. The best you can do is to refute it. It is not everything you react to,” he added.

The controversy continues to generate reactions across Nigeria’s political landscape as the 2027 election cycle approaches.

IGP Deploys DIGs Nationwide, Launches “Handshake Patrols” to Tackle Crime

2026-06-10T14:10:28.694+01:00

The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has announced new security measures aimed at strengthening policing across Nigeria, including the deployment of Deputy Inspectors-General (DIGs) to the country’s six geopolitical zones.

According to a statement by Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Okon Placid, the directive takes effect from June 15, 2026, and was unveiled during the monthly conference of senior officers at Force Headquarters, Abuja.

Under the plan, DIGs will provide closer supervision and strategic leadership in their assigned zones, working with Assistant Inspectors-General and Commissioners of Police to improve coordination and response to emerging threats.

To further combat cross-border crimes, the IGP introduced a new initiative tagged “Handshake Patrols”, requiring neighbouring state commands to conduct joint patrols, share intelligence, and coordinate operations against criminals who exploit state boundaries to evade arrest.

Disu emphasized that many offenders commit crimes in one state and escape into another, making stronger inter-state collaboration essential.

He charged Commissioners of Police to intensify patrols along major entry and exit routes and adopt a regional approach to security challenges.

The IGP reaffirmed the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to intelligence-led policing, strategic coordination, and inter-agency collaboration to safeguard lives and property nationwide.

Aisha Yesufu Demands Law to End Delayed Contractor Payments

2026-06-10T14:08:31.622+01:00

Prominent socio-political activist Aisha Yesufu has called for the enactment of a new law that would compel all tiers of government in Nigeria to pay contractors within 30 days of completing projects or delivering services.

In a post shared on her social media page, Yesufu argued that delayed payments have crippled businesses, slowed infrastructure development, and undermined job creation.

She proposed that any payment outstanding beyond 30 days should attract mandatory interest, calculated at the prevailing Central Bank of Nigeria Monetary Policy Rate plus five percent.

“There is a need for a strong, enforceable law to be enacted that compels every tier of government to pay contractors all due invoices within 30 days, with mandatory interest on any delayed payment. No more using contractors as unwilling bankers,” she stated.

Yesufu lamented that many contractors deliver projects only to face months or even years of waiting for payment, pushing several into financial distress or liquidation.

She maintained that such practices amount to governments treating contractors as unofficial sources of credit.

The activist stressed that prompt payment would strengthen economic growth, improve infrastructure delivery, and boost employment opportunities across the country.

Peter Obi Copy-and-Paste Politician, Can’t Compete With Tinubu – Presidency

2026-06-10T14:04:55.290+01:00

The Presidency has criticized Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential candidate Peter Obi, describing him as a “copy-and-paste politician” who cannot compete with President Bola Tinubu.

In a post on X, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, argued that Obi’s eight-year tenure as Anambra governor left little to showcase, contrasting it with Tinubu’s legacy in Lagos.

“Peter Obi has never shown original, authentic thinking. He is a copy-and-paste politician. Willie Obiano, his successor, said Obi failed spectacularly in providing security in the state.

Nigeria deserves a leader who can see beyond the ken of the ordinary people, a leader who is a proven deep thinker and doer. Peter Obi is no match for President Bola Tinubu. They are not on the same level,” Onanuga stated.

He highlighted Tinubu’s rail and road masterplan in Lagos, which continues to guide infrastructure development years after his governorship, as evidence of Tinubu’s foresight and leadership capacity.

The remarks come amid intensifying political exchanges ahead of the 2027 elections, with Obi positioning himself as a major opposition figure against the ruling APC.

Even If They Kidnap Us All, There’s No Vacancy in Aso Rock - Okpebholo

2026-06-10T14:02:03.898+01:00

Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has accused opposition parties of exploiting insecurity to discredit President Bola Tinubu’s administration, insisting that such tactics will not win them power.

Speaking Tuesday at the flag-off of the APC campaign for local government elections in Edo South, Okpebholo dismissed opposition strategies, declaring that the presidency is not up for grabs

.“There is no vacancy in Aso Rock. They can even kidnap all of us yes, there is no vacancy in Aso Rock,” he said.

The governor argued that promoting insecurity through kidnappings and attacks only undermines governance, stressing that “there will be nobody left to govern” if such acts continue.

Okpebholo praised Tinubu’s achievements, particularly the impact of fuel subsidy removal, which he said is reflected in ongoing projects across the state.

He also commended APC candidates who emerged from the primaries, expressing confidence that their victories would help deliver the 2.5 million votes pledged to Tinubu in 2027.

APC state chairman Jarrett Tenebe described the party as the only viable political platform in Edo, urging candidates to take the governor’s developmental message to grassroots communities.

The event concluded with the unveiling of APC’s Edo South candidates, including Ogbeide Ihama (Senate), Paddy Iyamu (Oredo Federal Constituency), and Omorede Igbinedion (Ovia Federal Constituency).

The Edo State Independent Electoral Commission (EDSIEC) has scheduled council polls across the 18 LGAs for July 11, 2026.

Northern Elders Urge Tinubu to Declare National Security Emergency

2026-06-10T13:20:52.400+01:00

The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) has called on President Bola Tinubu to urgently declare a national security emergency, warning that escalating violence, kidnappings, and bandit attacks across Nigeria threaten the country’s stability and economic survival.

In a statement issued Wednesday, NEF spokesperson Abubakar Jiddere described the situation as an unprecedented security crisis, with criminal activities spreading across multiple regions and leaving millions vulnerable.

Communities in states including Zamfara, Katsina, Kaduna, Niger, Plateau, Benue, Kogi, Kwara, Borno, Oyo, Edo, Enugu, and Imo were cited as facing relentless attacks from armed groups.

The forum noted that kidnapping-for-ransom has evolved into a sophisticated criminal enterprise, driven by weak law enforcement, porous borders, illegal arms proliferation, and poor intelligence coordination.

The NEF warned that insecurity is crippling agriculture, displacing farming communities, collapsing rural economies, disrupting education, and deepening poverty.

“The security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government,” the forum said, quoting Section 14(2)(b) of the Constitution, while questioning why citizens are increasingly left to defend themselves.

The group urged the Federal Government to investigate illegal mining and other resource exploitation linked to insecurity, and recommended stronger intelligence-sharing, intensified operations against kidnapping and banditry networks, prosecution of sponsors, audits of illegal mining, and enhanced protection for schools and farming communities.

Describing the crisis as a national concern, the forum stressed that continued insecurity could erode public confidence in government institutions.

“The time for assurances has passed. The time for measurable action is now,” the statement concluded.Nigeria has battled persistent insecurity for over a decade, with banditry, mass kidnappings, and insurgency-related violence destabilizing the North-West, North-Central, and North-East regions.

PDP Loses Another Bauchi Rep as Misau Defects to APM

2026-06-10T13:19:30.343+01:00

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has suffered yet another setback in the House of Representatives following the defection of Aliyu Misau, member representing Misau/Dambam Federal Constituency of Bauchi State, to the Allied Peoples Movement (APM).

Misau’s defection, announced in a letter to Speaker Tajudeen Abbas and read during plenary on Wednesday, comes just days after four other Bauchi lawmakers elected on the PDP platform also dumped the party for the APM.

Citing the PDP’s prolonged leadership crisis, Misau said the situation had made it impossible for him to continue representing his constituents effectively.

“The leadership crisis in the PDP has made it impossible for me to continue to represent my people and contribute to the development of the constituency,” his letter partly read.

The move is widely seen as part of a broader political realignment in Bauchi State, following Governor Bala Mohammed’s recent defection to the APM.

Since then, several political office holders and party loyalists have either joined the APM or signaled their intention to do so.

Observers note that the defections further weaken the PDP’s numerical strength in the House and highlight the party’s struggle with internal divisions.

For months, the PDP has been embroiled in disputes over leadership, party structures, and preparations for future elections, fueling a wave of exits across states.

With Misau’s departure, the APM continues to consolidate its influence in Bauchi, buoyed by the influx of key political figures and elected representatives.

Atiku’s Aide: “Tinubu’s Biggest Achievement Is Making Nigerians Poorer”

2026-06-10T13:16:19.418+01:00

Demola Olarenwaju, Special Assistant on Digital Media Strategy to African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar, has sharply criticized President Bola Tinubu’s administration, claiming its policies have worsened poverty across Nigeria.

Speaking during an interview on Vanguard Politics Hub, Olarenwaju described Tinubu’s government as a “360-degree failure,” arguing that economic instability under his leadership has deepened hardship to the point that former President Muhammadu Buhari now “looks like a saint” in comparison.

“Tinubu’s biggest achievement is making Nigeria poorer. He has made poverty worse; he has made Buhari look like a saint,” Olarenwaju said.

He pointed to skyrocketing fuel prices as an example, noting that the cost of petroleum under Tinubu’s government is nearly ten times higher than during Buhari’s tenure. According to him, this has placed unbearable strain on ordinary Nigerians.

Olarenwaju’s remarks add to growing criticism of Tinubu’s economic reforms, which many argue have eroded purchasing power and intensified hardship nationwide.

Oyebamiji Condemns Political Violence, Calls for Peace in Osun

2026-06-10T13:12:40.501+01:00

The All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in Osun State, Bola Oyebamiji, has decried the recent wave of political violence across the state, urging residents to remain peaceful and law-abiding ahead of the forthcoming election.

In a statement issued Tuesday, Oyebamiji commiserated with victims of the attacks, describing the incidents as “unfortunate” and stressing that democracy must be decided at the ballot box, not through intimidation or bloodshed.

“Democracy is a contest of ideas, vision and service to the people. There is no political office, including the office of Governor, that is worth the blood of any human being,” he said.

Oyebamiji alleged that APC supporters were attacked in Owode-Ede, while buses belonging to his campaign were vandalized.

He further claimed that party members participating in a peaceful rally in Ifeland were assaulted by hoodlums linked to the ruling government, leaving several injured.

Reports also indicated assaults in Osogbo, with some individuals shot at, though the extent of casualties remains unverified.Condemning all forms of political violence, Oyebamiji emphasized that government’s primary duty is to protect lives and property.

He warned that rising intolerance and insecurity were leaving many Osun residents vulnerable.

Looking ahead, he pledged that if elected governor, his administration would prioritize security, welfare, prosperity, and peace, ensuring citizens can exercise their democratic rights without fear.

“The safety and security of our people will be a top priority of my administration. Citizens should be able to exercise their democratic rights without fear,” he assured.

Oyebamiji urged residents to stay calm despite provocations, expressing confidence that justice and fairness would prevail in the state’s political process.

Lagos Lawmaker Apata Appeals to Tinubu Over APC Primary Dispute

2026-06-10T12:58:00.852+01:00

Samuel Apata, the lawmaker representing Somolu Constituency II in the Lagos State House of Assembly, has urged President Bola Tinubu to intervene in the controversy surrounding the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary election, alleging that he was denied his return ticket despite winning convincingly.

Speaking in Lagos on Wednesday, Apata insisted that he secured 9,081 votes in the primary, far ahead of other contenders, but was overlooked in favor of a candidate who came third with 677 votes.

“I contested for the second-term ticket and won convincingly. It is unfortunate that someone who came a distant third was declared the candidate. President Tinubu is a man of justice, and I am confident he will ensure the right thing is done,” Apata said.

The lawmaker, who won his Assembly seat in 2023 after several unsuccessful attempts at local and state elections, highlighted his achievements in office, including road rehabilitation in Bariga and the construction and renovation of six schools.

He argued that his legislative experience had strengthened his capacity to deliver more dividends of representation if given another mandate.

Apata reaffirmed his loyalty to the APC and expressed hope that the dispute would be resolved fairly, stressing that his appeal to Tinubu was rooted in his belief in party supremacy and due process.

Gunmen Kill Lieutenant, Seven Soldiers in Kaduna Ambush

2026-06-10T11:58:26.880+01:00

Eight Nigerian soldiers, including a lieutenant, were reportedly killed on Monday during an ambush in Kaduna State.

According to counter-insurgency publication Zagazola Makama, the attack occurred as troops were heading for a rescue mission following an earlier abduction in communities along the Kaduna River between Chikun and Igabi Local Government Areas.

The Nigerian Army has been contacted for official comments on the incident.This latest assault underscores the rising wave of bandit attacks across the North-West and North-Central regions, despite ongoing military operations.

In March 2025, coordinated bandit raids on military bases in Kaduna and Niger states left several soldiers dead.

The army described that assault as a “three-pronged attack” targeting multiple bases simultaneously.

The Kaduna ambush adds to growing concerns about insecurity in the region, where armed groups continue to challenge state authority and endanger civilian communities.

North-West Governors Launch Regional Plan to Tackle Poverty

2026-06-10T11:56:08.589+01:00

The North-West Governors’ Forum (NWGF) has unveiled a coordinated regional strategy aimed at reducing multidimensional poverty across the seven states of the zone.

At a high-level policy dialogue held in Kano, governors, policymakers, development partners, and technical experts discussed ways to strengthen social protection systems and introduce innovative financing to address poverty, insecurity, and poor health outcomes.

Declaring the summit open, Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf, represented by his deputy, Murtala Sule-Garo emphasized that social protection should be seen as a strategic investment in human capital and economic growth rather than mere welfare.

He highlighted Kano’s adoption of the 2025 Social Protection Policy Law and the creation of a Social Protection Directorate under the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation.

“Addressing the scale of poverty and vulnerability across the region requires a shift from fragmented interventions to comprehensive, integrated, and data-driven social protection systems that are transparent, accountable, and reach those most in need,” Yusuf stated.

NWGF Director-General, Maryam Yahaya, described the dialogue as a defining moment, noting that despite the region’s population and economic potential, it continues to face high poverty levels, insecurity, and a growing number of out-of-school children.

She stressed the need for coordinated responses across state boundaries.UNICEF Deputy Representative, Dr Rownak Khan, underscored the severe challenges facing children in the region, including maternal mortality, malnutrition, and limited access to essential services.

He called for child-focused social protection programmes such as unconditional cash transfers to improve healthcare, education, and nutrition.

Participants at the summit expressed optimism that strengthened cooperation, innovative financing, and inclusive policies could significantly reduce poverty levels in the North-West.

Police Rescue 23-Year-Old After Jumping into Lagos Lagoon

2026-06-10T11:54:31.700+01:00

The Marine Police Unit of the Lagos State Command has rescued a 23-year-old man, Joshua Babalola, who attempted to end his life by jumping into the Lagos lagoon from the Third Mainland Bridge.

The incident occurred around 10:30 a.m. on June 8, 2026, when officers received reports that a young man had plunged into the water. Marine police operatives, with the help of local fishermen, swiftly mobilized to the scene and pulled him out alive.

Babalola, a painter from Ibadan, Oyo State, told authorities he had traveled to Lagos that morning without informing anyone.

He explained that financial struggles and feelings of hopelessness pushed him to the act, adding that his mobile phone was lost in the lagoon.

Police spokesperson, SP Abimbola Adebisi, confirmed the rescue, noting that Babalola had been stabilized and was under police care while efforts were ongoing to contact his family.“He was rescued with the help of fishermen in the area.

He is the second person in three months to be rescued from the lagoon,” Adebisi said.The command urged residents, fishermen, and community leaders to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities, stressing that effective policing depends on collaboration between the public and security agencies.

Authorities reiterated their commitment to safeguarding lives and property across Lagos State while encouraging citizens to stay alert and support emergency response efforts.