By Adegboyega Adeleye

Only a few competitions in football carry the aura, pressure, relevance, and prestige of the UEFA Champions League.

Across generations, the tournament has produced legendary players, unforgettable finals and dynasties that shaped European football history. Yet, behind every triumph on the biggest stage stands a coach whose tactical brilliance, leadership and personality guided teams through Europe’s most demanding nights.

According to UEFA’s official Champions League records, only a select group of coaches have managed to conquer Europe multiple times, while just a handful have done so with different clubs. While players often dominate headlines, these managers built the systems, mentality and culture that turned elite squads into European champions.

The competition has often been defined by managers capable of mastering pressure and delivering glory repeatedly, which makes the list a unique cast.

Here are the coaches with the most UEFA Champions League/European Cup titles in history.

1. Carlo Ancelotti – 5 titles

Titles: AC Milan (2003, 2007), Real Madrid (2014, 2022, 2024)

No manager in European football history has conquered the Champions League more than Ancelotti. Calm under pressure and admired for his man-management style, the Italian transformed elite dressing rooms into winning machines across two football eras.

After leading AC Milan to European glory in 2003 and 2007, Ancelotti famously guided Real Madrid to “La Decima” in 2014, ending the club’s long wait for a 10th European crown. He then returned to win again in 2022 and 2024, extending his record to five titles.

UEFA also recognises him as one of the few men to win the competition both as a player and as a coach, underlining his place among football’s greatest figures.

2. Bob Paisley – 3 titles

Titles: Liverpool (1977, 1978, 1981)

Quiet, modest and deeply respected at Liverpool, Paisley succeeded the legendary Bill Shankly and somehow elevated the club even further.

Within nine years, he turned Liverpool into Europe’s dominant force, winning three European Cups in five seasons. His tactical intelligence and ability to rebuild winning teams helped establish Liverpool’s continental pedigree during the late 1970s and early 1980s.

The 1981 triumph against Real Madrid in Paris sealed his place among football immortals.

3. Zinédine Zidane – 3 titles

Titles: Real Madrid (2016, 2017, 2018)

Zidane achieved what many thought impossible in the modern era. By winning the Champions League three consecutive times, he achieved an impressive record which might remain unbroken in years to come.

Already revered as one of football’s greatest players, the Frenchman smoothly transitioned into coaching and built a Real Madrid side defined by experience, mentality and ruthless efficiency.

Between 2016 and 2018, Madrid dominated Europe under Zidane, defeating Atlético Madrid, Juventus and Liverpool in three finals. UEFA records show he remains the only manager to win three straight Champions League titles in the modern format.

4. Pep Guardiola – 3 titles

Titles: Barcelona (2009, 2011), Manchester City (2023)

Guardiola’s influence on modern football stretches far beyond trophies, but his Champions League success remains one of the defining aspects of his managerial legacy.

He revolutionised Barcelona with a possession-based style that produced one of football’s greatest teams, winning the title in 2009 and 2011 with stars like Lionel Messi, Xavi and Iniesta.

After years of near misses at Bayern Munich and Manchester City, Guardiola finally delivered City’s first Champions League crown in 2023, completing the club’s historic treble.

5. José Mourinho – 2 titles

Titles: Porto (2004), Inter Milan (2010)

Few coaches have embraced the drama of European football quite like Mourinho.

He stunned Europe in 2004 by guiding Porto to an unlikely Champions League triumph before repeating the feat with Inter Milan in 2010, where his tactical discipline and defensive structure powered the Italian side to a famous treble.

Mourinho remains one of the rare managers to win the competition with two different clubs.

6. Jupp Heynckes – 2 titles

Titles: Real Madrid (1998), Bayern Munich (2013)

Heynckes waited 15 years between his two Champions League triumphs — the longest gap recorded between title wins by a coach.

He first guided Real Madrid to European success in 1998 before returning in spectacular fashion with Bayern Munich in 2013, leading the German giants to a historic treble-winning campaign.

His Bayern side is widely regarded as one of the strongest teams of the modern era.

7. Luis Enrique – 2 titles

Titles: Barcelona (2015), Paris Saint-Germain (2025)

Luis Enrique joined an elite company after leading Paris Saint-Germain to their first Champions League title in 2025.

Already a European champion with Barcelona in 2015, the Spaniard became only the seventh coach to win the competition with multiple clubs. His PSG side’s emphatic victory over Inter in Munich cemented his growing reputation as one of modern football’s elite tacticians.

UEFA notes that he could become a three-time winner if he continues PSG’s rise in Europe. PSG will face Arsenal in the Champions League final on May 30, a chance for Enrique to claim a second consecutive title with the French club.

8. Sir Alex Ferguson – 2 titles

Titles: Manchester United (1999, 2008)

Ferguson’s first Champions League triumph remains one of football’s greatest comeback stories.

Manchester United’s dramatic 1999 final victory over Bayern Munich completed an iconic treble-winning season. Nearly a decade later, Ferguson lifted the trophy again in 2008 after defeating Chelsea in Moscow.

His longevity and ability to rebuild successful squads across eras remain unmatched in English football.

9. Ottmar Hitzfeld – 2 titles

Titles: Borussia Dortmund (1997), Bayern Munich (2001)

Hitzfeld carved his name into Champions League history by winning with two different German clubs.

He first led Borussia Dortmund to a stunning victory against Juventus in 1997 before guiding Bayern Munich to European glory in 2001 after suffering heartbreak in the 1999 final.

His tactical adaptability made him one of Europe’s most respected managers.

10. Arrigo Sacchi – 2 titles

Titles: AC Milan (1989, 1990)

Sacchi changed football tactics forever, and many modern tactical systems still carry traces of his philosophy.

His AC Milan side, driven by pressing, defensive organisation and attacking movement, dominated Europe at the end of the 1980s. Back-to-back European titles in 1989 and 1990 transformed Milan into one of the greatest club teams ever assembled.

Vanguard News

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By Adeola Badru

The presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Adewole Adebayo, has criticised President Bola Tinubu over the worsening security situation in the country, saying the President should resign if he cannot protect Nigerians.

Adebayo spoke with journalists on Tuesday shortly after a closed-door meeting with Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, in Ibadan.

He said his visit was aimed at showing solidarity with the people and government of Oyo State following recent security concerns in parts of the state.

According to him, the insecurity being experienced in Oyo reflects a broader national crisis, which he blamed on what he described as the Federal Government’s failure to fulfill its constitutional responsibility of protecting lives and property.

“The reason why we came here is to give solidarity to the people of Oyo State and the government of Oyo State, and to sympathise with the communities. What Oyo State is going through today is what many states are going through,” Adebayo said.

The SDP chieftain accused President Tinubu of failing in his role as Commander-in-Chief, arguing that insecurity had spread to regions previously regarded as relatively peaceful.

“And that’s because President Bola Tinubu has failed to do his job as Commander-in-Chief. If you cannot secure your state, which is the heart of Yorubaland, what is the use of being government at all?” he said.

Adebayo further alleged that security funds were being diverted toward political activities rather than addressing insecurity across the country.

“The state government is a victim of the failure of the federal government. President Bola Tinubu is sitting on top of heavy security votes, which is used to destabilise political parties, instead of applying it for the armed forces to secure the country,” he alleged.

He warned that the country’s security challenges should no longer be treated lightly, citing killings and attacks reported in several parts of Nigeria.

“You cannot run an economy, you cannot provide jobs, yet you cannot secure lives. What is the use? Nigerian people need to understand that it’s no longer a joke,” he said.

Adebayo also called on the President to either decisively confront criminal elements or resign from office.

“I told President Tinubu sometime last year that you have to use your gun to kill the terrorists or use a pen to resign. If you can’t do it, quit the job. Other people will do it,” he stated.

He expressed concern over attacks on civilians and military personnel, describing the country’s security environment as deteriorating.

“That teacher who got beheaded, if he wanted to join the army, he would have joined the army. Now we are in a country where generals are being killed like chicken,” he said.

The SDP presidential candidate urged the President to focus on governance and national security rather than politics, while also calling for improved welfare and operational support for the armed forces.

“Leave politics aside. Focus on your job as Commander-in-Chief. Nigerian armed forces are capable of defending not only Nigeria but the entire West Africa, if only they had a Commander-in-Chief who can lead them properly,” he added.

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…Warns Against ‘Dictatorship’ and Imposition of Candidates

By Luminous Jannamike

Fresh crisis has erupted within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Zamfara State following a lawsuit filed by a frontline aspirant for the Zamfara North Senatorial District, Dr. Sani Abdullahi Shinkafi, challenging the party’s senatorial primary election.

Shinkafi dragged the APC, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and Senator Sahabi Alhaji Ya’u before the Federal High Court in Gusau over the disputed primary allegedly conducted on May 19, 2026.

The aspirant is asking the court to nullify the process that produced Senator Ya’u as the APC candidate for Zamfara North Senatorial District, arguing that the party neither conducted a valid direct primary nor adopted a lawful consensus arrangement before announcing the winner.

The development was contained in a statement personally signed by Shinkafi, who is also a patron of the Tinubu-Shettima Presidential Campaign Council 2023.

In the suit marked FHC/GS/CS/6/2026 and dated May 25, 2026, Shinkafi urged the court to interpret relevant provisions of the Electoral Act 2026 and determine whether the APC complied with the law and its constitution in the conduct of the primary exercise.

Among the issues raised before the court is whether the APC was legally required under Sections 84, 86, and 87 of the Electoral Act 2026 to nominate candidates through either direct primaries or a properly executed consensus process.

The APC chieftain is also seeking an order compelling the party to conduct a fresh primary election involving all cleared aspirants for the Zamfara North Senatorial District ticket.

In a 21-paragraph affidavit filed in support of the suit, Shinkafi stated that he purchased the party’s expression of interest and nomination forms for ₦20 million on April 30, 2026.

He explained that he subsequently submitted the completed forms and was screened alongside Hanafi Musa Moriki and Senator Sahabi Alhaji Ya’u, with all three aspirants reportedly cleared to contest the primary election.

According to him, there was no consensus agreement among the aspirants prior to the declaration of a candidate.

“There was no consensus amongst the cleared aspirants,” Shinkafi stated.

He further maintained that he neither withdrew from the race nor endorsed any aspirant as a consensus candidate.

“I did not endorse any aspirant as the consensus candidate,” he said.

Shinkafi alleged that due process was not followed before Senator Ya’u was announced as the party’s consensus candidate for the senatorial district.

“There was no written consent from me indicating my voluntary withdrawal from the race,” he added.

The APC stalwart warned that arbitrary imposition of candidates could undermine internal democracy within political parties and weaken Nigeria’s democratic process.

According to him, the suit is also seeking a perpetual injunction restraining the defendants and their agents from further alleged breaches of constitutional and statutory provisions governing party primaries.

He also asked the court to direct the APC and INEC to uphold internal democracy and ensure credible nomination processes in line with the rule of law.

Shinkafi argued that both the legal system and democratic order could suffer irreparable damage if the court fails to grant the reliefs sought.

He disclosed that before approaching the court, he had petitioned the APC National Chairman and the chairman of the party’s Senate Primary Election Committee over what he described as the arbitrary imposition of a candidate.

As of the time of filing this report, no hearing date had been fixed for the suit, which is expected to further heighten tensions within the APC in Zamfara State ahead of the 2027 general elections.

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Party Waxing Stronger Ahead of 2027 Polls — Alabere

By Dayo Johnson, Akure

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has emerged winner of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential primary election in Ondo State, securing victory across the state’s 18 local government areas.

Chairman of the Electoral Committee, Mr. Ajibola Samuel, who announced the results, said Atiku polled a total of 18,287 votes to clinch the party’s ticket in the state.

According to the results, former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, came second with 6,031 votes, while Hayatudeen Muhammed secured 837 votes.

Speaking after the announcement, the Ondo State Chairman of the ADC, Hon. Tola Alabere, expressed confidence in the growing strength of the party ahead of future elections.

He said the ADC was well positioned to challenge the ruling parties and promised that the party would “spring surprises” in subsequent polls.

“We have prepared for them, and you can see it yourself now. We are on ground,” Alabere stated.

The party chairman urged residents of Ondo State to reflect on issues such as economic hardship, insecurity, and the rising cost of living when making political decisions.

He said the ADC had enough issues to campaign on, adding that the people of the state would listen to the party once campaigns commence fully.

Alabere also accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of attempting to weaken opposition parties, but claimed the strategy was failing as more Nigerians continued to join the ADC.

He cited the registration of over 4,000 new members in Jigawa State on the same day the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) allegedly removed the names of David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola from the party’s portal.

The ADC chairman further disclosed that former Senator Ayo Akinyelure had joined the party and had been adopted as the ADC candidate for Ondo Central Senatorial District.

He also announced Hon. Gbenga Edema as the party’s candidate for the Ilaje/Ese-Odo Federal Constituency seat in the House of Representatives.

“So we are waxing stronger every day. People are joining us every day, and with the discontentment in APC, I can tell you that so many of their members will vote for us,” Alabere said.

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By Uko Etim

UYO—The Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Adm. Idi Abbas has reiterated the commitment of the Nigerian Navy to combating maritime crime in Nigeria’s territorial waters.

Abbas stated this during the inauguration of key infrastructure projects at Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS), Jubilee in Ikot Abasi Local Government Area in Akwa Ibom on Tuesday.

Abbas, represented by Rear Adm. Chidozie Okehie, Flag Officer Commanding (FOC), Eastern Naval Command, said the Nigerian Navy has continued to play a significant role in ensuring security within the Gulf of Guinea through various operations and maritime security initiatives.

“We are to get a more efficient, more optimised Nigerian Navy to ensure that maritime security is improved in Nigeria and economic prosperity.

“The Nigerian Navy is currently celebrating 70 years of dedicated service, sacrifice, and commitment towards safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial waters and protecting critical national assets,” Abbas said.

Abbas said the key infrastructure projects at NNS Jubilee were aimed at improving the living and working conditions of personnel.

He added that the project’s inauguration was part of activities lined up to commemorate the 70th anniversary celebration of the Nigerian Navy.

He said the projects also form part of ongoing efforts by the Naval Headquarters to improve welfare standards across units and formations.

The CNS said the personnel welfare remained a top priority of his administration, noting that adequate accommodation and conducive working environments were essential factors in maintaining high morale, discipline, and operational readiness among officers and ratings.

He added that the inauguration of the accommodation facility and other remodelled projects at NNS Jubilee would help reduce accommodation challenges within the Base while enhancing the comfort and efficiency of personnel in the discharge of their duties.

Abbas commended the Commander NNS Jubilee, Commodore Mohammed Manga, and personnel for their dedication, professionalism, and commitment towards ensuring the successful execution of the projects.

He urged personnel to make proper use of the facilities and maintain them responsibly.

Our Correspondent reports that the projects inaugurated were a newly constructed 2 by 2 Senior Rates Accommodation, remodelled NNS Jubilee Galley and NNS Jubilee Ship’s bell.

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By Dennis Agbo

Former presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, has distanced himself from a viral report claiming he won 45 million votes in a purported presidential primary election of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), describing the report as false and misleading.

The claim, which circulated widely on social media and some online platforms, alleged that Obi emerged victorious in an imaginary party primary held by the NDC.

However, the Peter Obi Media Office has dismissed the report in its entirety, stating that no such political party primary ever took place.

In a statement issued on Tuesday by the media office spokesperson, Ibrahim Umar, the figures being circulated were described as “entirely false” and without any basis in reality.

“The attention of the Peter Obi Media Office has been drawn to certain 45 million primary vote figures currently circulating on social media and various news platforms, purporting to be the breakdown of official results from an imaginary primary by the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), ascribed to Mr Peter Obi,” the statement read.

The office clarified that no primary election was conducted and no results or figures were generated from any such process, urging the public, supporters, and media organisations to disregard the report.

It further stressed that official information regarding Mr. Obi’s political engagements would only be released through verified and authorised communication channels.

The statement also accused those behind the publication of attempting to misrepresent and drag the former presidential candidate into fraudulent narratives.

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By Vincent Ujumadu

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has emerged winner of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential primary held in Anambra State, securing a total of 58,566 votes.

The results were announced on Wednesday in Awka by the Chairman of the 11-member ADC Primary Election Committee in the state, Hon. Nduaka Nworisara.

According to him, former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, came second with 17,085 votes, while Dr. Mohammed Hayatu-Deen placed third with 7,861 votes.

Nworisara disclosed that a total of 83,512 registered party members participated in the exercise across the 326 wards in the state, noting that the party’s membership register in Anambra stands at 99,349.

He described the exercise as peaceful and orderly, commending party members for their conduct during the primaries.

Also speaking, Dr. Ndubuisi Nwobu, who served as the party’s running mate during the November 8, 2025 governorship election in Anambra State, and Hon. Ben-chuks Nwosu, Chairman of the party’s membership mobilisation committee in the state, praised the smooth conduct of the election.

Nwobu described Anambra as a stronghold of the ADC, expressing confidence that the party would record significant success in the state during the 2027 general elections.

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By Ike Uchechukwu, Calabar

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has released the preliminary results of its National Assembly and State House of Assembly primaries in Cross River State, declaring nine candidates as winners across senatorial, federal constituency, and state constituencies.

The results were announced on Saturday by the Chairman of the Primaries Committee, Macfarlane Ejah, at the ADC Experience Democracy Centre in Calabar.

According to the announcement, John Etim emerged as the party’s candidate for the Calabar Municipality/Odukpani Federal Constituency seat.

Other House of Representatives ticket winners include Emmanuel Edet for Akpabuyo/Bakassi/Calabar South Federal Constituency and Ovat Ayabom for Obubra/Etung Federal Constituency.

In the senatorial contests, Offiong Ekanem clinched the Cross River South ticket, while Akin Ricketts emerged as the party’s candidate for Cross River Central Senatorial District.

For the State House of Assembly, the party announced Ekpe David (Abi), Emmanuel Asuquo (Bakassi), Nathaniel Friday (Obubra II), and Effiong Okon (Akpabuyo) as winners of their respective constituencies.

Ejah explained that the delay in releasing the full results was due to the state’s difficult terrain and the extensive collation process across various wards.

He maintained that the primaries were conducted under the supervision of the John Ogar-led State Executive Committee, which he described as the only legitimate leadership of the ADC in Cross River State.

“There is no faction of the ADC in the state,” he stated, adding that the state executive fully supports the presidential ambition of the party’s flag bearer, Dumebi Kachikwu.

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By James Ogunnaike, Abeokuta

The Ogun State chapter of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has been thrown into deepening internal crisis following the emergence of two governorship candidates from parallel primaries conducted by rival factions in Abeokuta ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The two factions, which addressed journalists separately on Monday, announced Collins Ogundipe and Jimi Lawal as winners of parallel governorship primaries held across the 20 local government areas of the state.

In one of the exercises, conducted under the supervision of a six-member Ogun ADC Governorship Primary Committee chaired by Adeniyi Adams, Collins Ogundipe was declared the party’s governorship candidate. Officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) were reportedly present during the process.

Three aspirants—Jimi Lawal, Collins Ogundipe, and Abolaji Odusina—contested in the primary.

Announcing the results, the committee said Ogundipe polled 9,370 votes to emerge winner, defeating Lawal, who scored 6,812 votes, while Odusina garnered 4,349 votes.

However, in a separate development, a rival faction of the party conducted its own primary election and declared Jimi Lawal as the authentic governorship candidate.

The faction said its exercise was supervised by the Secretary of the Ogun Primary Election Committee, Adebimpe Elijah Adelowo.

According to results announced by the group, Lawal secured 19,418 votes to win the contest, while Ogundipe polled 5,775 votes and Bolaji Odusina scored 4,825 votes.

Both factions confirmed that their respective results and election materials have been forwarded to the national leadership of the ADC in Abuja for review, ratification, and further action, deepening uncertainty over the party’s governorship ticket in the state.

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…Deploys Drones as Troops Record Massive Nationwide Gains

By Kingsley Omonobi

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, has ordered a comprehensive security reinforcement across Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State and surrounding communities following last week’s attack on schools in the area, which left several teachers, students, and children abducted.

The directive includes intensified aerial surveillance using advanced drone technology and the deployment of specialised ground forces in close coordination with state authorities to restore security and track down the perpetrators.

This was disclosed on Tuesday in Abuja by the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, who said proactive measures were already underway and yielding actionable intelligence.

According to him, the military would maintain sustained pressure on criminal elements until those responsible are apprehended and normalcy is fully restored in the affected communities.

Drone Surveillance, Ground Troops Mobilised

Onoja said the CDS had directed the immediate deployment of intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance assets, including drones, alongside reinforced ground operations in the troubled axis.

He noted that the operation would involve close collaboration with local security structures and state authorities to ensure rapid response and intelligence sharing.

Nationwide Military Operations Yield Major Results

Beyond the Oyo incident, Onoja also provided a broad operational update for May, revealing significant nationwide gains recorded by troops across multiple theatres of operation.

He disclosed that combined operations across the country led to the neutralisation of 317 terrorists, the arrest of 314 suspects, and the rescue of 221 kidnapped victims within the month.

He added that troops also dismantled three illegal refinery sites, recovered 2,910 litres of petroleum products, and seized 93 assorted weapons, while 18 terrorists reportedly surrendered to military forces.

Regional Operations Across Theatres

Onoja said operations under various missions—including Operation Hadin Kai in the North East, Operation Fansan Yamma in the North West, Operation Savannah Shield, Operation Enduring Peace, Operation Whirl Stroke, Operation Delta Safe, and Operation Udoka—recorded sustained successes against insurgents, kidnappers, gunrunners, and oil thieves.

He said the operations resulted in hundreds of terrorist casualties, mass arrests, large-scale rescues of abducted civilians, and the destruction of criminal logistics networks across the country.

Strategic Pressure on Criminal Networks

According to him, intensified air-ground coordination and intelligence-led operations have significantly degraded terrorist and criminal capabilities nationwide, forcing increased surrenders and improving civilian rescue outcomes.

Onoja also highlighted the interception of arms supply chains, including gunrunning networks supplying terrorist groups across multiple regions.

Defence Headquarters Reaffirms Commitment

The Defence Headquarters commended troops for their gallantry, professionalism, and sacrifices in ongoing operations, while also paying tribute to personnel who lost their lives in the line of duty.

It urged Nigerians to continue supporting security agencies with credible intelligence, stressing that community cooperation remains vital to sustaining operational gains.

The military reaffirmed its commitment to restoring lasting peace, protecting civilians, and ensuring the territorial integrity of Nigeria.

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By Idris Salisu, Gusau

A Zamfara North Senatorial aspirant under the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Sani Abdullahi Shinkafi, has approached the Federal High Court in Gusau, challenging the conduct and outcome of the party’s recently concluded senatorial primary election.

Shinkafi is asking the court to compel the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the APC to account for what he described as breaches of the Electoral Act and the party’s constitution during the primaries.

His counsel, Barrister Garba Galadi, who spoke to journalists shortly after filing the suit on Monday evening, said the action became necessary following alleged failure to adhere to established guidelines governing party primaries.

According to him, the APC’s rules provide for either direct primaries or consensus arrangements, but alleged that neither process was properly followed in the exercise that produced the party’s candidate.

He further argued that the declaration of Senator Sahabi Yau Kaura as winner of the primary was invalid, insisting it was carried out “without due process and in violation of laid-down procedures.”

Galadi maintained that the legal team would present evidence before the court to demonstrate that the electoral guidelines and internal party regulations were not complied with during the selection process.

Speaking separately, Shinkafi said he decided to challenge the outcome after exhausting internal party mechanisms without success.

He rejected the emergence of the party’s candidate, insisting that the process that produced Senator Sahabi Yau Kaura did not follow due process as required by the APC constitution and relevant electoral laws.

He added that his decision to seek judicial intervention was aimed at securing justice, fairness, and adherence to democratic principles within the party.

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By Gift Chapi Odekina, Abuja

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, has congratulated Muslims across Nigeria on the occasion of this year’s Eid-el-Kabir, urging them to renew their faith in Allah (SWT) and their commitment to the nation.

In a Sallah message issued through his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Musa Abdullahi Krishi, the Speaker encouraged Muslims to extend acts of charity to one another, particularly to the poor, the needy, and the less privileged, noting that such compassion reflects a core tenet of Islam.

He said the celebration is significant as it symbolizes total submission to the will of Allah, as demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim (AS), adding that the period calls for deep reflection on faith, sacrifice, and obedience to God.

Speaker Abbas noted that there are important lessons to draw from the life of Prophet Ibrahim, including unwavering faith in Allah and respect for constituted authority.

He urged Nigerians to remain selfless and committed to serving both God and humanity through sacrifice of time, resources, and goodwill.

As the country approaches the general elections next year, Abbas also called for special prayers for peaceful polls. He further appealed to Nigerians to pray for national unity, prosperity, political stability, and progress at all levels of government.

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…Rival Camp Keeps Silent

By Wole Mosadomi, Minna

The African Democratic Congress in Niger State has announced Dr Muhammad Kpautagi as winner of its governorship primary election held across the state on Monday, with a rival faction declining to comment on the outcome.

Announcing the result, Secretary of the Electoral Committee for the state, Alhaji Ibrahim Mohammed, said the exercise was “free, fair and transparent.”

According to him, Dr Kpautagi won in 24 out of the 25 local government areas, polling a total of 67,924 votes to defeat his only opponent, Alhaji Idris Usman, who scored 21,769 votes and won only in Bida Local Government Area, his place of origin.

Mohammed also announced the outcome of the senatorial primary for Zone A, where Alhaji Sheshi Baba emerged winner with 28,636 votes, defeating Alhaji Hassan Gimba, who polled 11,666 votes.

Speaking after his victory, Dr Kpautagi described his emergence as divinely ordained and expressed appreciation to party members for their support.

“The victory is ordained by God, and I thank ADC members for considering me worthy of this mandate,” he said.

He promised to prioritise governance reforms in the state, accusing the ruling administration of mismanagement.

“The APC government has mismanaged the state and I promise to right all the wrongs and put the state back on the path of development within two years of assumption of office,” he said.

Kpautagi also pledged to tackle insecurity, including banditry and terrorism, if elected governor.

“My administration will confront banditry and terrorism head-on so that people can live without fear or apprehension,” he added.

However, the chairman of a rival faction in the state, Alhaji Musa Hassan, declined to comment when contacted by journalists, saying he was unavailable to speak on the matter.

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….Senator Adeola Calls for Support for Renewed Hope Agenda

By Henry Umoru

ABUJA — Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau Jibrin, has called on Nigerians to embrace unity, prayers, and support for the poor and vulnerable as Muslims celebrate this year’s Eid-el-Kabir.

In a Sallah message issued through his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Malam Ismail Mudashir, the lawmaker urged Nigerians to use the occasion to pray for peace, national unity, and sustained progress.

Barau, who represents Kano North and also serves as First Deputy Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, congratulated Nigerian pilgrims performing the Hajj in Saudi Arabia, urging them to remember the country and its leaders in their prayers.

He called on the pilgrims to pray for lasting peace, stability, and prosperity, noting that supplications made during the holy period are vital to national development.

The Deputy Senate President also urged Nigerians to continue supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, saying the administration remains committed to addressing national challenges and improving citizens’ welfare.

“This season reminds us of total submission to the will of Allah, as demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim. True believers must uphold the values of sacrifice, obedience, tolerance, justice and charity,” he said.

He added that Nigerians should extend support to the less privileged and recommit to building a peaceful and prosperous nation.

“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has continued to demonstrate leadership and commitment towards addressing the challenges facing our country. With sustained efforts and the support of all Nigerians, the nation will achieve greater stability and prosperity,” he said.

Meanwhile, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Appropriations and All Progressives Congress governorship candidate for Ogun State, Senator Olamilekan Adeola, also called for prayers for peace and support for the administration’s “Renewed Hope Agenda.”

In a statement signed by his Media Adviser, Kayode Odunaro, Adeola urged Muslims to reflect on the lessons of sacrifice, love, and peaceful coexistence as taught by the Eid-el-Kabir celebration.

He said adherence to Islamic values would help strengthen national unity and support ongoing reforms under the federal government.

“As the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu marks its three years in office with positive indicators of economic recovery, the nation needs security, peace, understanding and sacrifice to consolidate gains and deepen reform efforts,” the statement read.

Adeola also assured his constituents in Ogun West of continued effective representation, pledging to sustain constituency projects in education, infrastructure, and empowerment programmes.

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..Warns Against Illegal Cash Collection

By Vincent Ujumadu

The Anambra State Government has warned that anyone involved in cash collection for tax payments in the state will henceforth face strict punishment, as it moves to fully enforce a cashless tax system.

The directive was announced following decisions reached at the State Executive Council meeting held in Awka.

Commissioner for Information, Dr Law Mefor, said the move was prompted by reports that cash-based tax collection was still ongoing in some parts of the state’s economy.

“Cash collection for tax payment remains prohibited in the state and defaulters will henceforth face harsh penalties,” Mefor said.

He added that the council reaffirmed its commitment to eliminating cash transactions in tax administration to improve transparency and accountability.

The council also approved plans for a retreat for members of the State Executive Council to strengthen coordination and ensure collective responsibility in governance.

According to the commissioner, the retreat is aimed at improving synergy among cabinet members and clarifying roles and expectations.

“This is to align all members with their responsibilities so that they know exactly what is expected of them individually and collectively,” he said.

Meanwhile, the African University of Science and Technology and the West African College of Nurses have honoured Governor Chukwuma Soludo with awards in recognition of what they described as his outstanding performance in office.

The institutions said the awards were based on his contributions to healthcare development, digital skills expansion and innovation-driven governance in the state.

They cited the recruitment of over 1,350 nurses in the state and adherence to the current salary structure for health workers as part of reasons for the recognition.

They also praised the governor’s drive in promoting digital literacy, noting that over 260,000 residents have been trained in digital skills.

The institutions further commended the conversion of the former Government House in Awka into a tech hub and innovation district, describing it as a forward-looking development initiative.

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Oil prices rebounded back to $100 on Tuesday while stock markets were mixed and the dollar firmed after US military strikes on Iran deflated hopes of an imminent deal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.

The United States and Iran have been working on an agreement to end the Middle East war and reopen the crucial waterway to tanker and cargo traffic since a fragile ceasefire on April 8.

But the fresh strikes had Tehran warning it was ready to retaliate after it accused Washington of breaching their truce with what US Central Command described as “self-defence strikes”.

Stock markets had rallied Monday and crude futures dropped below $100 a barrel after reports that a deal might come within days.

That was before US forces said they had attacked missile sites in southern Iran and boats trying to lay mines.

Brent North Sea crude, the international benchmark, jumped almost 4.5 percent Tuesday to edge back above $100 a barrel.

Oil price increases had been modest beforehand, “underlining the market’s strong belief that the Strait of Hormuz will reopen” said Arne Lohmann Rasmussen, a commodities analyst at Global Risk Management.

Equity markets were mixed with the Dow just off but the tech-heavy Nasdaq and the S&P 500 in the green two hours into trading.

In Europe, Frankfurt and Paris closed off around one percent with London ending just 0.2 percent ahead as traders returned after a long holiday weekend in Britain.

British oil giant BP topped the losers’ chart, off more than four percent after it unexpectedly removed Albert Manifold as chairman only months into his tenure, citing “serious concerns” about governance standards, oversight and conduct at the company.

Kathleen Brooks, research director at XTB, warned that Manifold’s departure, coming barely three years after former CEO Bernard Looney was replaced over allegations of misconduct, “suggests a lack of stability at the firm, which is bad news for shareholders”.

AJ Bell investment director Russ Mould focused on the Iran situation as he noted that “continued doubts about the potential for a deal and an overnight pre-emptive US strike on Iran mean any euphoria is being kept in check,” his concerns echoed by Brooks.

The US strikes came as top Iranian negotiators arrived in Doha for another round of talks to end three months of conflict, and as the Israeli military stepped up hostilities with Iran-backed Hezbollah in southern Lebanon.

In Asia, Seoul’s stock market hit a new record high above 8,000 points as chipmakers, carmakers and shipbuilders continued to outperform.

In Europe, investors were quick to express disappointment at Ferrari’s unveiling of its first electric model, with shares in the Italian luxury carmaker skidding six percent.

– Key figures at around 1550 GMT –

Brent North Sea Crude: UP 4.4 percent at $100.41 a barrel

New York – DOW: DOWN 0.2 percent at 50,467,08 points

New York – S&P 500: UP 0.5 percent at 7,508.30

New York – Nasdaq: UP 0.9 percent at 26,570.41

London – FTSE 100: UP 0.2 percent at 10,491.39 (close)

Paris – CAC 40: DOWN 1.0 percent at 8,173.11 (close)

Frankfurt – DAX: DOWN 0.8 percent at 25,184.89 (close)

Hong Kong – Hang Seng Index: FLAT at 25,599.45 (close)

Tokyo – Nikkei 225: DOWN 0.3 percent at 64,996.09 points (close)

Shanghai – Composite: DOWN 0.2 percent at 4,145.37 (close)

Euro/dollar: DOWN at 1.1620 from 1.1646 on Monday

Pound/dollar: DOWN at 1.3439 from $1.3502

Dollar/yen: UP at 159.36 from 158.90 yen

Euro/pound: UP at 86.47 from 86.25 pence

AFP

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By Omeiza Ajayi

ABUJA: The presidential campaign organization of Dr Nnaoke Ufere, of the Peoples Redemption Party PRP, has rejected the outcome of the party’s presidential primary held on 25 May 2026, presenting arithmetic evidence it says proves the declared results were manipulated in favour of former Cross River State governor, Mr Donald Duke.

In a statement signed by Ishaq Alhassan, Executive Director of the Ufere2027 Presidential Campaign and made available to Vanguard on Tuesday in Abuja, the organization accused officials of inflating votes beyond the ceiling set by the official membership register submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission INEC on 4 May 2026.

It described the document as “the single source of truth agreed by all parties before a single ballot was cast.”

The campaign presented state-by-state figures it said made the manipulation impossible to deny. In Gombe, a register of 348 members produced 1,431 declared votes — a 311 per cent inflation, with over 1,000 ballots the campaign described as “phantom.” In Bauchi, 593 registered members produced 760 votes, an excess of 167. In Kwara, 55 members produced 82 votes. Across the three states alone, 996 registered members produced 2,273 votes — meaning 1,277 ballots, more than half the total declared vote, corresponded to no eligible voter on the party’s own INEC-approved list.

“A register is a ceiling. Turnout cannot exceed 100 per cent of the people allowed to vote. Every vote beyond the register is, by definition, a vote that should never have been counted,” the statement read.

The campaign noted that the phantom votes broke “overwhelmingly, in state after state,” in favour of Duke, who it said joined the PRP only days before the primary after defecting from another platform, did not campaign publicly at any point during the contest, and was reportedly outside the country while the election was being conducted.

It further alleged that Duke openly offered to refund rival aspirants their costs if they would step aside and allow him to emerge as a consensus candidate.

By contrast, the statement said Ufere actively campaigned in all 36 states and the FCT, sponsored voter registration and member engagement efforts nationwide, funded a women’s mobilisation programme, and provided logistics support to enable grassroots members to attend events.

“A candidate who made that level of visible investment in party mobilization being defeated by a candidate who neither campaigned nor participated openly in the process raises serious questions that demand credible answers,” it said.

The campaign also alleged that party insiders had described the outcome as deliberately engineered, and pointing to reported plans for Duke to run alongside Senator Datti Baba-Ahmed, younger brother of PRP National Chairman, Dr Hakeem Baba-Ahmed.

The campaign stopped short of stating the allegation as established fact but said it carried “an obligation” for the party’s leadership to answer.

It also disclosed that it was in possession of voice recordings in which some persons solicited payments running into millions of naira in exchange for delivering votes to Ufere — demands the Harvard-educated venture capitalist and anti-corruption advocate refused in their entirety.

The statement additionally cited documented instances of contestants allegedly paying over N500,000 to PRP state chairmen to procure votes.

“Dr Nnaoke Ufere refused every such demand without exception. He has spent his public life as a voice against corruption in Nigeria’s institutions, and he was not prepared to secure a nomination by becoming part of the very system he has consistently opposed. 

“The lesson of this primary is stark: the aspirant who would not buy votes was defeated by votes that were bought or fabricated”, the statement noted. 

Aside the numerical irregularities, the campaign described widespread administrative collapse on the day of the primary. INEC officials were said to have been absent or severely delayed at multiple locations, with members in the FCT waiting roughly five hours before any process commenced.

The statement also said the party admitted that funds approved for the conduct of the election never reached many states and local government areas — a failure it attributed directly to National Chairman Baba-Ahmed. 

The campaign alleged that the funding vacuum created conditions under which contestants stepped in to provide money to presiding officers and state officials for food, accommodation and logistics — fatally compromising the independence of the process.

It said state chairmen and primary election committee chairpersons appointed by Baba-Ahmed complained openly about the disorder on the party’s official WhatsApp group in real time, and that the National Chairman himself walked out of the collation centre at the party’s national headquarters and did not return until the crowd had dispersed.

The statement also reported that in the late hours of the exercise, organized groups armed with knives were brought to a polling location in the FCT and used to intimidate remaining voters — a development it said, if confirmed, would constitute electoral violence requiring immediate investigation.

The campaign further rejected what it described as a post-primary attempt to substitute the governing membership register with a new list dated 25 May 2026, containing 12,378 members — compared with 7,787 on the INEC-approved 4th May register. The difference of 4,591 members represented a 59 per cent increase after the official rules had already been set.

“It cannot be changed after polling simply because the declared figures expose what they expose. Any attempt to retroactively swap the register is not a correction. It is a second irregularity layered on the first,” the statement said.

The Ufere2027 Campaign consequently demanded the immediate suspension of collation and any declaration of a presidential nominee; a full forensic audit of every vote measured against the 4th May INEC-approved register; publication of complete state-by-state and LGA-by-LGA accreditation and voting figures; nullification of all results in which votes exceeded the eligible register; an independent investigation into the concentration of excess votes in Duke’s favour; and the conduct of a fresh presidential primary in full compliance with party rules.

It also called for full accountability for persons responsible for the administrative failure, missing funds, reported violence and vote manipulation, and demanded an immediate investigation into the reported armed intimidation at the FCT polling location.

“The Peoples Redemption Party was built on a tradition of principled, accountable politics. That tradition is not honoured by a primary in which the votes outnumber the voters. The numbers are public now. They can be explained, or they can be answered for. They cannot be wished away”, the campaign organization declared. 

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By Golok Nanmwa

JOS — Businessman and governorship aspirant, Kefas Ropshik, has emerged candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Plateau State following a keenly contested primary election ahead of the 2027 polls.

Ropshik polled 19,938 votes to defeat three other aspirants in the exercise, which featured delegates from all 17 local government areas of the state.

His emergence positions him as the PDP flag bearer to challenge incumbent Governor Caleb Mutfwang, who is expected to seek re-election in 2027.

In his acceptance speech, Ropshik expressed gratitude to party leaders, delegates and supporters, dedicating his victory to God.

“I accept this mandate with a heart full of gratitude to God Almighty, whose grace has sustained this journey from the humble soil of Garram in Kanke to this defining moment in our state’s political history,” he said.

He said his ambition was anchored on a “Plateau First” agenda, promising to prioritise security, youth empowerment, economic development and inclusive governance if elected.

“This victory belongs to the people, and together we will build a united, secure, and prosperous Plateau. The journey begins now,” he added.

Ropshik, who hails from Garram in Kanke Local Government Area, said he fully understood the challenges facing citizens and pledged to run a transparent and development-focused administration.

He also pledged to serve only one term in office, in line with the state’s zoning arrangement.

“In line with the already laid out zoning agreement that keeps the peace, stability and unity of the Plateau people together, I intend to spend just four years in government, which by the special grace of God will usher in the impact of an eight-year administration,” he said.

He called on other aspirants to support his candidacy and urged unity within the PDP ahead of the general election.

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By Ugochukwu Alaribe

UMUAHIA — Governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Abia State for the 2027 general election, Dr Kelechi Anosike, has dismissed claims that he is a new member of the party, insisting that he has been a loyal stakeholder since 2005.

Anosike made the clarification in Umuahia, saying his long-standing membership of the party was being questioned by individuals he described as “social media-era members” unfamiliar with his political history.

According to him, he joined the PDP in 2005 and has remained active in the party despite not occupying any formal political or party office in the state.

“For the avoidance of doubt, I am not a newcomer in the PDP. My relationship with, and membership of, our great party did not begin recently, neither is it driven by political convenience or personal ambition,” he said.

He explained that he contested the House of Representatives ticket for the Ikwuano/Umuahia Federal Constituency in 2011 under the PDP but did not secure the party’s nomination.

Anosike also recalled his participation in the 2007/2008 PDP National Convention in Enugu, where he contested for the position of Deputy National Financial Secretary, noting that the position was eventually zoned elsewhere.

He added that he has served in several national party and federal government committees, earning commendations, and also authored the biography of former President Olusegun Obasanjo titled “Olusegun Obasanjo: The Man, The Message, The Movement.”

“I participated fully in the democratic process but did not secure the party’s nomination. When those opportunities did not materialise, I did not leave the PDP. I stayed because I understand that loyalty matters,” he said.

Anosike stressed that party membership goes beyond holding office, appointments or electoral victories, but also involves sacrifice, commitment and sustained support.

“I understand that party membership is not only about winning elections or occupying positions. It is about commitment, sacrifice, and standing with your political family in both victory and defeat,” he said.

He noted that he had personally supported and maintained the PDP ward office in Nkwoegwu Ward and contributed to sustaining party structures in Umuahia North Local Government Area.

Anosike also expressed concern over the PDP’s loss in the 2023 elections, describing it as painful, and said he was motivated to help reposition the party in Abia State.

“I made up my mind to step forward and contribute more actively to rebuilding and repositioning our party. The PDP is bigger than any individual,” he said.

He added that his emergence as governorship candidate was part of efforts to restore the party’s strength and appeal in the state ahead of 2027.

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Mexican security forces captured the US-wanted nephew of drug lord Joaquin “El Chapo” Guzman in the border state of Sonora, authorities said Tuesday.

Omar Garcia Harfuch, secretary of security, said on X that the suspect is the “nephew of ‘El Chapo,'” the former leader of the Sinaloa cartel now serving a life sentence in US prison.

He said the nephew is also wanted by the United States.

Though authorities identified the suspect only as Isai “N,” Mexican media identified the suspect as Isai Martinez Zepeda.

The press contact for the secretary of security told AFP they didn’t have further details on Mexican media reports that the suspect was captured in 2008 in possession of high caliber weapons. It was not immediately clear when he had gotten out of captivity.

El Chapo was extradited in 2017 after escaping twice from Mexican prisons. He is imprisoned at a maximum security facility in Colorado on multiple charges including drug trafficking and money laundering.

Two of the sons of El Chapo, Ovidio and Joaquin, are also imprisoned in the United States on narcotrafficking charges.

AFP

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