CKN News

Gunmen Kill Anglican Priest In Adamawa

2026-04-23T14:11:00.002+01:00

The Adamawa State Police Command has commenced a full-scale investigation into the k!lling of an Anglican cleric, Rev. Emmanuel Ezeokwe.

The incident occurred on Tuesday, April 21, 2026 in Zinai Village, Bolki, Song Local Government Area of the state.

The spokesperson for the command, SP Suleiman Yahaya Nguroje, who confirmed the incident in a statement on Wednesday said suspected gunmen invaded the village and shot Ezeokwe.

According to the PPRO, police operatives rushed the victim to a hospital where he was confirmed dead by a doctor.

“On the 21st of April, 2026, at about 6:30 am, the Command received a report from one Amos Sunday of the same community, that at about 12:48am of the same date, suspected gunmen invaded the village and shot the victim,” the statement read.

“Upon receipt of the report, police operatives of the Command swiftly moved to the scene, where they found the lifeless body of the victim and rushed him to a hospital.

“He was, however, confirmed d3ad by a medical doctor, while the corpse was deposited at the hospital morgue for autopsy.

“Preliminary investigation led to the recovery of three (3) empty shells of AK-47 rifle at the scene as exhibits.

“The Commissioner of Police, CP Kabir Umar Hasaan, has ordered Deputy Commissioner of police SCID to conduct a discreet investigation and deployed tactical teams to track down the perpetrators and bring them to justice.

“The Command urges members of the public to remain calm and cooperate with the police by providing useful information that may aid the ongoing investigation.”

More Trouble For Nasir El-Rufai As DSS Arraigns Him For ‘intercepting’ Ribadu’s Phone Conversation

2026-04-23T11:29:00.002+01:00

The Department of State Services (DSS) has arraigned Nasir el-Rufai, former Kaduna state governor, for allegedly accessing the telephone conversation of Nuhu Ribadu, national security adviser (NSA).

The ex-minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) is being prosecuted on a five-count amended charge before a federal high court in Abuja

More details later

Nigerian Officials Involved In Killing Of Christians ..US Senator, Ted Cruz

2026-04-23T07:51:00.004+01:00

A United States senator, Ted Cruz, has accused Nigerian government officials of involvement in attacks against Christians in the country.

Cruz made the allegation during a Senate Foreign Relations subcommittee hearing focused on the United States counterterrorism strategy in Africa on Tuesday.

Efforts to get the federal government’s reaction yesterday proved abortive but former information Minister under the late President Muhammadu Buhari, Lai Mohammed, said in United Kingdom yesterday that more Muslims than Christians were being killed by Boko Haram.

However, speaking at the hearing, the lawmaker claimed that Nigeria records the highest number of Christians killed because of their faith anywhere in the world.

He said since 2009, more than 50,000 Christians had been killed, while over 20,000 churches, schools and other religious buildings had been destroyed.

“Nigerian officials had been, unfortunately, complicit in facilitating these atrocities,” Cruz said.

He linked part of the violence to the operation of Sharia law in some northern states, and also criticised Nigerian authorities, saying their response to insecurity in the country had been slow.

Cruz recalled a previous meeting with Nigerian defence and security officials, where assurances were given that the violence would be addressed.

However, he said those promises have not yet produced results.

“I told them I would judge their commitment by the results. Those results have yet to materialise,” he said.

The senator also revealed that in October, he introduced the Nigeria Religious Freedom Accountability Act of 2025.

According to him, the bill is designed to hold Nigerian government officials accountable over alleged involvement in attacks on Christians.

During the session, Cruz questioned a senior official of the US State Department’s Bureau of African Affairs, Nick Checker, on whether engagements between Nigeria and the United States had led to meaningful progress, especially after actions taken under US President Donald Trump.

In his response, Checker said Nigeria had shown some level of cooperation with the United States, pointed to changes in the country’s security structure, including leadership adjustments, recruitment of more troops and deployment of forest guards to troubled areas.

“We’ve seen some positive movements, including leadership changes in Nigerian security services, recruitment of additional troops, and deployment of forest guards to areas affected by violence,” he said.

He added that there had been an increase in the prosecution of suspected terrorists, mentioning the creation of a bilateral high level working group after discussions between Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu, and US Under Secretary of State, Allison Hooker.

Checker noted further that recent support from the United States to Nigerian security forces showed continued cooperation between both countries.

“We’ve seen positive steps by the Nigerians, but certainly more can be done,” Checker said, adding that the US would continue to push for further action.

Boko Haram killing more Muslims than Christians — Lai Mohammed

Meanwhile, former Minister of Information and Culture, Lai Mohammed, has dismissed claims of a targeted genocide against Christians in Nigeria, saying insurgent groups have killed more Muslims than Christians.

Mohammed spoke in the United Kingdom yesterday, while fielding questions from students of Abbey College, Cambridge.

The session was organised to give students from diverse backgrounds an opportunity to engage on developments in Nigeria, particularly governance and youth participation in politics.

Responding to a question on religious persecution, especially against Christians, the former minister said narratives of a “Christian genocide” in Nigeria were inaccurate.

“There should be more understanding on the part of the developed world. Now, people say that there is religious persecution in Nigeria and that there is genocide against Christians. It’s not true. It is fake news,” he said.

Mohammed argued that Nigeria’s security challenges were complex and not driven by a deliberate campaign to eliminate any religious group.

“Nigeria as a country has challenges that will not be resolved by genocide against any religion,” he added.

He said Boko Haram initially emerged as a movement targeting Muslims who embraced Western education, noting that early victims were largely Muslims.

“At the beginning, the victims of Boko Haram were largely Muslims, not Christians. Boko Haram started as a revolt by extreme Muslims against conventional Muslims like me.

“Look at the meaning of Boko Haram — ‘haram’ means forbidden or illicit, ‘boko’ means Western education. So for Boko Haram, I, Lai Mohammed, having gone to school, am an enemy.

“They realised that Muslims killing one another doesn’t gain traction. When Muslims start killing Christians, it causes uproar. That is the honest truth,” he said.

The former minister also dismissed claims that banditry in Nigeria was driven by religion, describing it instead as a criminal enterprise affecting people of the same ethnic and religious backgrounds.

He insisted that records showed Muslims account for the largest number of victims of insurgent attacks in Nigeria.

He said: “The bandits are Muslims, they are Hausa-Fulanis. Their victims are Muslims, they are Hausa-Fulanis. So how can you now talk about religion? It has nothing to do with religion.

“We have a spirit of religious tolerance in Nigeria and I challenge anyone to say it is not true. People can hide under anything to commit crime but one, it is not a policy. Number two, the average Nigerian is not bothered about your religion or ethnicity.

“In Nigeria, the average Muslim and Christian only disagree over money. They won’t disagree over theology. They are more concerned about the economy and ways of life. That is why you have many Christians marrying Muslims and vice versa.

“So, this narrative about Christian genocide is not true and we must vigorously use public communication to challenge it.”

Nigerian Woman Sentenced To 8 Years Jail Term Dissappears In US

2026-04-23T07:47:00.000+01:00

A Nigerian national and US permanent resident, Emuobosan Emanuella Hall, 45, is now the subject of a federal arrest warrant after failing to report to prison to begin serving an eight-year sentence tied to a romance fraud scheme, exposing her to an additional 10-year jail term.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office, Eastern District of Louisiana said that on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, U.S. Magistrate Judge Donna Phillips Currault signed a criminal complaint and issued the warrant following Hall’s failure to surrender as ordered.

United States Attorney David I. Courcelle announced that Hall, who had been sentenced in January 2026, is currently at large.

This was detailed in a statement issued by Public Information Officer Shane M. Jones on April 14, 2026.

There, authorities confirmed that Hall did not report to the Bureau of Prisons by March 25, 2026, as directed, and has since “evaded custody.”

According to the criminal complaint, “Hall was initially charged in April 2024 by a federal grand jury in New Orleans with conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud and conspiracy to commit money laundering.

“She was arrested in Atlanta, Georgia, granted bond, and later pleaded guilty.

“In January 2026, U.S. District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo sentenced her to 96 months in prison but permitted her to remain on bond with instructions to report to a designated Bureau of Prisons facility by March 25, 2026.”

However, Hall failed to comply.

“GPS data from her monitoring device placed her last known location at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport on March 24, 2026, where the device stopped transmitting.

“Although she had provided her probation officer with flight details to Minnesota, airline records show she did not board the flight. “Phone records instead suggest she traveled to Dulles International Airport outside Washington, D.C.

“Court filings show Hall pleaded guilty to conspiring to defraud mostly older women through a romance scam. Her co-defendant, Kenneth G. Akpieyi of Marietta, Georgia, was convicted after a four-day jury trial in July 2025 and later sentenced by Judge Milazzo to 25 years in prison,” the warrant for her arrest disclosed.

Evidence presented in court detailed how the conspirators posed as generals, philanthropists, or entrepreneurs living outside the United States, contacting victims through platforms such as Facebook and Instagram before moving conversations to encrypted services like WhatsApp.

Victims were then persuaded to send money for fraudulent reasons, including charitable work or medical emergencies.

Prosecutors said Hall and Akpieyi operated a company, Le Beau Monde LLC, to facilitate the scheme, with Hall depositing victim funds into company accounts and transferring them to other institutions, including foreign banks.

She admitted responsibility for $851,207 in losses, while Akpieyi was held responsible for more than $3.5 million. Akpieyi remains in federal custody serving his sentence.

“Our office will vigorously enforce the law, particularly when a defendant fails to report to prison to serve her sentence,” Courcelle said.

“Her failure to report to prison reflects an utter lack of respect for the law. HALL was sentenced for her role in defrauding women, often of money that they had saved for their retirement. Our office will continue to prosecute fraud wherever it occurs, especially when criminals exploit vulnerable victims,” the statement added.

According to the release, if convicted of failure to report, Hall “faces up to 10 additional years in prison to be served consecutively to her existing sentence, along with a possible fine of up to $250,000, up to three years of supervised release, and a mandatory $100 special assessment.”

The U.S. Attorney’s Office credited the FBI New Orleans Field Office for investigating the case, with Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew R. Payne, Senior Litigation Counsel, leading the prosecution.

2027: Anxiety As Supreme Court Delays Verdict On PDP, ADC Suits

2026-04-23T07:41:00.003+01:00

The Supreme Court on Wednesday reserved judgment in the leadership tussles within the Peoples Democratic Party and the African Democratic Congress, heightening uncertainty over the internal stability of both parties ahead of the 2027 general elections.

A five-member panel of the apex court, led by Justice Mohammed Garba, fixed no date for judgment after hearing arguments from parties in separate appeals challenging the decisions of the lower courts on the disputes.

The Independent National Electoral Commission has announced May 10 as the deadline for political parties to submit their membership registers. It also fixed the Presidential and National Assembly elections for Saturday, January 16, 2027, while the Governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections are scheduled for Saturday, February 6, 2027.

The Commission further stated that party primaries, including the resolution of disputes arising from them, will be conducted between April 23, 2026 and May 30, 2026.

According to INEC, campaigns for the Presidential and National Assembly elections will begin on August 19, 2026, while campaigns for the Governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections will commence on September 9, 2026.

With both major opposition political parties now entangled in multiple litigations, coupled with the looming INEC deadline, their ability to stabilise and organise a clear schedule of activities has been significantly disrupted. This has set the stage for further complications in party management and election preparations.

This development has also left aspirants seeking elective positions on the PDP and ADC platforms in a state of uncertainty and despair, as the unfolding situation makes it increasingly difficult for them to determine their next line of action.

While the party leadership remains uncertain about its ability to produce candidates, members are also left in limbo.

Ultimately, the political future of many politicians within these parties now hangs in the balance, pending the Supreme Court’s final determination.

Against this backdrop of instability, the PDP has remained embroiled in a prolonged internal crisis, resulting in a split into two factions—one led by Tanimu Turaki (SAN) and supported by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde and his Bauchi counterpart, Bala Mohammed, and the other headed by Abdulrahman Mohammed with the backing of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.

In the PDP matter, the court reserved judgment in two appeals filed by the factional leadership led by former Minister of Special Duties, Turaki, seeking to validate the party’s national convention held in Ibadan, Oyo State, on November 15 and 16, 2025.

The appellants are asking the court to set aside concurrent judgments of the Federal High Court and the Court of Appeal, which nullified the convention on the grounds of procedural breaches and internal party violations.

One of the appeals was against the decision of Justice Peter Lifu, who restrained the PDP from conducting the convention after finding that a former Jigawa State Governor, Sule Lamido, was unjustly denied the opportunity to contest for the position of national chairman.

Another appeal arose from the judgment of Justice James Omotosho, which barred the party from proceeding with the exercise on the basis that it failed to conduct valid state congresses as required by law and party guidelines.

At the hearing, counsel to the appellants, Paul Erokoro (SAN), urged the court to allow the appeals and dismiss preliminary objections filed by Lamido’s counsel, J.C. Njikonye (SAN), and the faction aligned with the FCT minister, represented by Joseph Daudu (SAN).

In a related development, the apex court also reserved judgment in an appeal filed by a former Senate President, David Mark, over the leadership tussle within the ADC.

On April 1, the Independent National Electoral Commission announced the removal of key figures of the ADC, including National Chairman, Mark and National Secretary Rauf Aregbesola, from its official register, stating that the action complied with a court order directing the commission to maintain the status quo pending the final judgment of the trial court.

The party has continued to grapple with a leadership crisis following the inauguration of a new National Working Committee under Mark’s leadership in July.

The dispute stemmed from disagreements over the tenure of former chairman Ralph Nwosu, who handed over the party leadership to the coalition group led by Mark, while sidelining his deputy, Nafiu Gombe, who insisted on assuming the role of acting chairman after Nwosu’s exit.

The disagreement later escalated into factional struggles for the control of the party, resulting in multiple legal battles at both the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court, and raising concerns about the party’s readiness for the 2027 elections. In response, Mark, on April 2, called for calm and maintained that the party would continue with its scheduled activities.

In a related development, a faction backed by the party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Dumebi Kachikwu, announced a caretaker committee on April 7 in Abuja during a National Executive Committee meeting convened by some state chairmen.

The situation has since split the party into three factions: one led by Mark representing the coalition bloc, another led by Gombe, and a NEC-backed group aligned with Kachikwu and headed by Kingsley Ogga, the Kogi State ADC chairman.

Consequently, like the PDP, the various factions have also instituted several cases in court.

Mark, through his counsel, Jubril Okutepa (SAN), challenged a March 12 judgment of the Court of Appeal, arguing that the dispute bordered on the internal affairs of a political party and was therefore not justiciable.

He urged the court to restrain the electoral commission from recognising any leadership outside his faction and to set aside the appellate court’s order maintaining the status quo.

However, respondents in the suit, including a faction led by Gombe, and others, urged the court to dismiss the appeal, insisting that the lower court acted within its jurisdiction.

Following the conclusion of arguments in all the matters, the apex court reserved judgment, with a date to be communicated to the parties.

Reacting in a statement on Wednesday, the Turaki-led NWC National Publicity Secretary, Ini Ememobong, expressed hope that the apex court will deliver judgments that would preserve multiparty democracy and prevent the imminent emergence of a one-party state.

“The court heard the appeals, with all parties adopting their respective processes, and thereafter reserved judgment to a date to be communicated to counsel.

“We charge all true and uncompromised PDP members to keep their faith alive, in the unwavering hope that the apex court will deliver judgments that will preserve multi-party democracy and prevent the imminent enthronement of a one-party state

“The Supreme Court has, at several times in the history of our non-linear democratic experience, remained the last hope of Nigeria and Nigerians, even in the face of immense pressure and unimaginable risk.”

On his part, the Wike-backed PDP National Publicity Secretary, Jungudo Mohammed, in an exclusive interview with our correspondent, expressed confidence that the Supreme Court would dismiss the matter and rule in their favour.

He noted, “Well, as you are aware, it was a definite hearing where all motions and the substantive briefs were adopted. So, as far as we the PDP are concerned, we are very, very optimistic in the sense that the issues, the real issues, have to do with whether the case is justiciable or not based on the fact that they feel, that is the Turaki’s camp feel it is an internal party affair.

“Whereas on our own part, we are saying it is not. Our intention is for the court to mandate INEC to ensure that the convention complies with the regulatory requirements before they can observe, monitor and supervise that convention.

“Whereas on their own, they are seeing it from a purely internal point of view. So when you look at the judgment, you look at the declaratory reliefs granted, they are not, and they were not directed at PDP. They were clearly directed at INEC.

“So, if the facts remain the facts and the law remains the law that we know, we believe that the Supreme Court will grant our request by dismissing all the appeals and probably also granting all the cross-appeals filed by the PDP. So we are optimistic the judgment will be in our favour.”

Shortly after the Supreme Court’s decision, the faction of the PDP backed by the FCT minister unveiled a 2027 schedule of activities, fixed the cost of its presidential nomination and expression of interest forms at N 51 million and governorship form at N21m.

The bloc’s National Organising Secretary, Umar Bature, in a timetable made available to newsmen on Wednesday, revealed that it will submit its register to the INEC on April 21, 2026, and notify the commission of its primaries on April 22.

On the cost of forms, the PDP faction pegged the expression of interest fee for all positions at N1m, while nomination fees vary across offices.

Aspirants for State Houses of Assembly will pay a total of N2m, House of Representatives N3m, Senate N5m, governorship N20m and presidential aspirants N50m.

According to the schedule, the sale of forms is slated to commence on April 27 and will close on May 4. And the last day for Submission of the filled forms is May 9.

Also, the screening of aspirants for all elective positions, including State Houses of Assembly, National Assembly, and governorship, is fixed for May 11, while that of the Presidential aspirants is scheduled to hold on May 12.

The timetable further shows that the presidential primary is scheduled for May 18, the governorship primaries are set for May 27, the House of Representatives primaries on May 21 and the Senate primaries on May 23, while primaries for State Houses of Assembly will be held May 21. All appeals are expected to be concluded by May 30.

Bature stated that female aspirants are required to pay only the expression of interest fee for their respective positions.

Reacting, Ememobong, described the timetable as an exercise in futility and urged Nigerians to disregard it.

Ememobong, in an interview with The PUNCH, stated that the Wike-backed faction appears to be acting as though they already know the court’s judgment.

He stated, “Well, they are acting brazenly as though they already know the judgment of the court. And even some of them boast that the court is in their pocket, so they may continue to act in that manner.

“We believe in the sanctity of the judiciary, and that is why, when we submit to the jurisdiction of the court, we do not take any step that may bring the court into disrepute.

“But it is left to them to act the way they want to act. But we can assure that if justice, according to law, is done, then the party will be able to operate as the genuine opposition party.

“So Nigerians should disregard their timetable, completely disregard it. It’s an effort in futility. They are working for APC and not PDP.”

In response, the Wike camp hit back, describing the governors-aligned PDP faction as detractors working for another political party.

The camp’s National Publicity Secretary, Mohammed, in an exclusive interview with our correspondent, disclosed that since the timetable was released, they have received an impressive response from PDP members and aspirants.

“They are just trying to distract loyal party members. They are more like working for another political party so that loyal party members of the PDP will get distracted and, you know, also get discouraged from participating in the primaries.

“But the response from people, particularly when we released the schedule of activities for our primaries, was quite very, very impressive. People have shown strong indications that they are ever ready to purchase the forms.

“And the PDP, as it were today, is very, very confident that we’ll conduct our primaries successfully. And all our successful aspirants will be on the ballot come 2027. So, we will achieve all our goals.”

Reacting to the Supreme Court’s decision, ADC National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, while addressing journalists at the court premises, expressed confidence that justice would be delivered.

He stated, “We are very confident that the case will be decided on because of an established case. Incidentally, like it was reported, one of the judges was actually among the judges that led the precedent on which we relied.

“So, we are very confident. We just appeal to our members not to give up. They should continue to be law-abiding. What is at stake is no longer our party. What is at stake is the democracy of Nigeria.”

Trade Minister Tasks New CAC Board On Digital Reforms , Ease Of Doing Business

2026-04-23T07:37:00.002+01:00

The Board of the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) has been inaugurated with a charge for members to prioritize digital innovation, combat illicit financial flows, and simplify processes for masses in Nigeria.

The Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole MFR, gave the charge today while inaugurating the board.

The Minister asked the newly inaugurated cac board to

uphold integrity, collaborate with stakeholders and deliver measurable results within their tenure

Jumoke Oduwole further described their appointment as a pivotal moment in strengthening Nigeria’s business ecosystem under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

The minister, while congratulating the chair on his appointment, stressed that the president didn’t take it lightly in making the appointment in view of cac’s critical role and implications for Nigeria’s reputation globally.

While congratulating them on their appointments, she expressed optimism that their expertise will propel the cac to new heights.

Responding on behalf of the board members, the chair, senator Ibrahim M. Ida, CON, said they were eternally grateful to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the confidence reposed in them and therefore pledged to deliver on their mandate.

Ida, who assured Nigerians that the board will discharge its functions as prescribed by CAMA, said it will strive to make registration faster, cheaper and cleaner.

He maintained that their role would be strategic, not operational, and will not be involved in management, but set a direction for the commission to follow.

While appreciating the minister for maintaining oversight of the commission over the years, urged the minister to collaborate with the board to ensure speedy delivery of reforms.

US Based Nigerian Accused Of Killing 3 Persons Found Dead In His Cell

2026-04-23T07:29:00.004+01:00

A Nigerian-American man accused of k!lling three people during a shooting spree in several Atlanta suburbs, including a Department of Homeland Security employee, has died in custody, officials said Tuesday.

According to the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office, Olaolukitan Adon Abel, 26, was found unresponsive in his jail cell just after 6:48 p.m. ET.

Detention staff members at the DeKalb County Jail alerted medical personnel and began life-saving procedures, but Abel was pronounced dead at 7:17 p.m. ET.

"There is no indication of criminal activity or foul play,” the sheriff’s office said in a statement.

An internal investigation has been opened to determine the circumstances of Abel’s death.

Abel is originally from Nigeria born in the United Kingdom and became a naturalized U.S. citizen in 2022.

Abel allegedly paid a homeless man to buy him a gun. He then used the weapon to fatally shoot three people at three different locations across the Atlanta area on April 13.

He was accused of shooting Prianna Weathers, 31; Tony Matthews, 48; and Lauren Bullis, 40.

Weathers, a mother to a preteen, and Bullis, who worked for the DHS, both d!ed from their injuries shortly after they were shot.

Matthews, a father, was hospitalized for six days but d!ed on April 19.

Weathers was shot around 1 a.m. on April 13 outside a Checkers restaurant along Wesley Chapel Road near Decatur in DeKalb County.

An hour later, police said Abel drove to the northern Atlanta suburb of Brookhaven and shot Matthews, who was sleeping on the ground outside of a Kroger’s supermarket in a shopping plaza.

Between 6 a.m. and 7 a.m. ET, police said that Abel shot and stabbed Bullis while she was walking her dog in Panthersville, an unincorporated area south of Decatur.

After Much Speculations, Power Minister Adelabu Resigns

2026-04-22T20:08:00.003+01:00

The Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, has formally tendered his resignation and proposed the establishment of a Coordinating Minister for Energy to drive integrated reforms across Nigeria’s power, gas, and related sectors.

In a resignation letter dated April 22, 2026, and addressed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Adelabu stated that his resignation will take effect on April 30, 2026, to enable him to focus on his governorship ambition in Oyo State. He, however, emphasised that sustaining and consolidating the gains recorded in the power sector requires stronger coordination at the highest level, including the appointment of a central authority to harmonise policy direction and execution.

Confirming the development, the Special Adviser to the Minister on Strategic Communications and Media Relations, Bolaji Tunji, said the Minister expressed deep appreciation to the President for the opportunity to serve, describing his tenure as a privilege to contribute to national development.

Adelabu noted that his decision aligns with the provisions of the Amended Electoral Act 2026, which precludes serving political office holders from contesting elections. He further disclosed that his gubernatorial aspiration dates back to 2016 during his tenure as Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria.

In his three-page letter, the Minister outlined key achievements recorded during his tenure, including the implementation of the Electricity Act 2023, which decentralised the electricity market and improved the investment climate. He highlighted that peak power generation rose to over 6,000 megawatts, driven by the integration of the Zungeru Hydropower Plant and the rehabilitation of thermal power plants. Transmission capacity was also strengthened through grid upgrades under the Presidential Power Initiative.

He further cited notable improvements in the distribution segment, including enhanced regulatory oversight, improved revenue collection, and progress in reducing Aggregate Technical, Commercial and Collection (ATC&C) losses. Efforts to close the metering gap, he added, gained momentum through the Presidential Metering Initiative and the World Bank-supported Distribution Sector Recovery Programme (DISREP).

On the financial front, Adelabu stated that tariff reforms and a ₦4 trillion debt restructuring programme increased market revenues from ₦1 trillion in 2023 to ₦2.3 trillion in 2025, restoring investor confidence and placing the sector on a path to sustainability.

Despite these gains, the Minister acknowledged persistent challenges, including gas supply constraints, infrastructure vandalism, and the need for full commercialisation of the electricity value chain. He therefore proposed key measures to sustain progress, including the implementation of cost-reflective tariffs with targeted subsidies, recapitalisation of distribution companies, accelerated nationwide metering, sustained transmission investments, and strengthened regulatory enforcement.

Central to his recommendations is the creation of a Coordinating Minister for Energy to provide strategic oversight and ensure synergy across power, gas, water resources, and environmental sectors. According to him, this approach is critical to improving gas supply for thermal generation, optimising hydroelectric resources, and accelerating renewable energy deployment.

Tunji added that Adelabu remains committed to ensuring a smooth and seamless handover process, while expressing gratitude to the President for the confidence and support extended to him throughout his tenure.

NAFDAC Dismantles Illegal Alcohol Production Syndicates in Lagos, Seizes Products Worth ₦350 Million

2026-04-22T17:23:00.005+01:00

NAFDAC has uncovered and dismantled two illegal production outlets involved in the counterfeiting and adulteration of alcoholic beverages in Lagos State. Acting on credible intelligence, enforcement operatives raided facilities at Zamfara Plaza, Trade Fair Complex, and Lagos Island, recovering over 1,800 cartons of counterfeit and adulterated alcoholic products valued at approximately ₦350 million.

At the Trade Fair Complex, officers discovered makeshift production setups equipped with plastic mixing tanks, improvised filtration systems, empty branded bottles, corks, and packaging materials used to produce and package fake alcoholic drinks.

A similar operation on Lagos Island led to the arrest of a suspect linked to the illegal production and distribution of counterfeit beverages through a retail outlet. All recovered items were seized and evacuated for further regulatory action.

NAFDAC warns that the consumption of adulterated alcoholic beverages poses serious health risks, including poisoning, organ damage, and death.

The Agency reiterates its commitment to prosecuting offenders and urges the public to purchase products only from authorised outlets and report suspicious activities to the nearest NAFDAC office or via its toll-free line 0800-1-NAFDAC (0800-1-623322).

Nigerian Ambassador Designate To Algeria Dies At 50

2026-04-22T17:05:00.003+01:00

The Federal Government has announced the death of Nigeria’s ambassador-designate to Algeria, Mohammed Mahmud Lele, who died at the age of 50.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs disclosed this in a statement issued in Abuja today by its spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa.

According to the ministry, Lele died in the early hours of April 19, 2026, in Ankara, Türkiye, after a protracted illness.

The ministry described the late diplomat as a dedicated officer who served the country with distinction.

“The late Ambassador Lele, until his death after a protracted illness, was the Director in charge of the Middle East and Gulf Division in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

“Ambassador Lele, a career diplomat, was recently appointed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as Ambassador-designate to the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria, following the Nigerian Senate’s confirmation of his nomination,” the statement said.

Born in Gamawa, Bauchi State, in 1976, Lele studied Economics at Bayero University, Kano, and went on to serve in Nigerian missions in Berlin, Lomé and Riyadh.

How Mother Slumped , Died While Waiting For Daughter At UTME Centre In Ondo

2026-04-22T16:57:00.006+01:00

Sorrow swept on Monday in Ilara-Mokin Junction, Ifedore Local Government Area of Ondo State, as a woman identified as Oluwasola Victoria Adebayo collapsed and died while waiting for her child writing the ongoing Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination.

It was gathered that the deceased had accompanied her child to the examination centre when she suddenly took ill shortly after arriving at the junction.

Sources at the scene said she complained of weakness before slumping unexpectedly.

Attempts by sympathisers to revive her proved abortive as she was pronounced dead at the spot.

Her child was said to be inside the examination hall at the time of the incident, unaware of the development.

A resident of the area, who identified the deceased as “Mommy Ayo,” disclosed that she had earlier spoken about escorting her daughter to the examination venue that morning.

The incident attracted a crowd of onlookers, with many expressing shock and sadness over the sudden death. The cause of the incident had yet to be ascertained as of the time of filing this report.

Confirming the development, the Spokesperson for Ondo state Police command, DSP Abayomi Jimoh said: “The Command notes with deep concern a sad incident involving the sudden death of a woman in Ilara Mokin. The family of the deceased has since been contacted and upon thorough checks, the remains of the deceased have been released to one Mr. Apapa Olamilekan, who identified himself as her son and an officer of the Nigeria Legion, Akure.

“The Command commiserates with the family of the deceased and urges the public to remain calm.

Breaking: Court Remands Suspected Coup Plotters In DSS Custody ( Video)

2026-04-22T16:05:00.004+01:00

The federal government, on Wednesday, arraigned five of the alleged masterminds of a plot to overthrow the administration of President Bola Tinubu through a coup d’état.

The defendants were docked before trial by Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court in Abuja.

Following their plea of innocence to the charge, the court ordered that they should be remanded in custody of the Department of State Services (DSS).

The remand order followed an application by the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, who was in court to personally handle the case.

Meanwhile, the court slated Monday to commence a full-blown hearing of the case.

Before the matter was adjourned, the defence lawyers, led by Mohammed Ndayako, SAN, prayed the court to order the DSS to grant them access to their clients.

They said such access would enable them to effectively prepare the defence of their clients who have been in detention since they were arrested.

Among those listed as defendants in a 13-count treason charge marked FHC/ABJ/CR/206/2026 is the erstwhile governor of Bayelsa State—who also served as minister of state for petroleum resources under the late former president Muhammadu Buhari—Timipre Sylva.

The former governor, who is said to be currently at large after escaping from the country before the alleged coup plot was leaked, was arraigned in absentia.

The other defendants in the charge are retired Major General Mohammed Ibrahim Gana, retired Naval Captain Erasmus Ochegobia Victor, serving Police Inspector Ahmed Ibrahim, and three others—Zekeri Umoru, Bukar Kashim Goni, and Abdulkadir Sani.

The allegations against the defendants border on treason, terrorism, failure to disclose security intelligence, and funds laundered in furtherance of acts of terrorism.

According to the FG, the defendants, sometime in September 2025, conspired among themselves to levy war against the state to overawe President Tinubu, thereby committing an offence punishable under Section 37(2) of the Criminal Code.

It was alleged that the defendants had prior knowledge of a planned treasonable act involving one Colonel Mohammed Alhassan Ma’aji and others but failed to alert the appropriate authorities.

The FG maintained that they rendered assistance to Colonel Ma’aji, as evidenced by their refusal to disclose the coup plot to either the president or a peace officer.

Moreover, the defendants were accused of failing to take preventive steps, as they “did not use any reasonable endeavours to prevent the commission of the offence”.

Other allegations against them centred on terrorism-related offences under the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.

They were said to have conspired with one another to commit an act of terrorism in the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Specifically, the serving police inspector, Ibrahim, and another defendant, Umoru, were accused of participating in meetings linked to terrorist activities.

The FG alleged that they acted “in a bid to further a political ideology which may seriously destabilise the constitutional structure of the Federal Republic of Nigeria”.

The defendants were further accused of providing support for terrorism.

The prosecution told the court that they knowingly and indirectly rendered support to facilitate acts of terror.

Tracing some of the transactions it said were linked to terrorism financing, the FG alleged that one of the defendants, Goni, “indirectly retained the aggregate sum of N50,000,000, which forms part of the proceeds of an unlawful act, to wit: terrorism financing”, while another defendant, Sani, allegedly retained N2 million from a similar source.

The charge also disclosed that Umoru had accepted a cash payment of N10,000,000 without going through a financial institution.

It was alleged that he also retained an additional N8.8 million suspected to be proceeds of terrorism financing.

Likewise, Inspector Ibrahim was accused of taking possession of N1 million linked to the same alleged scheme.

All financial-related counts in the charge were brought under the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.

Some of the counts in the charge read: ‘That you, Major General Mohammed Ibrahim Gana (Rtd); Captain (NN) Erasmus Ochegobia Victor (Rtd); Inspector Ahmed Ibrahim (AP776373); Zekeri Umoru; Bukar Kashim Goni; Abdulkadir Sani; Timipre Sylva (still at large); and others, sometime in the year 2025, in Abuja within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, knowing that Colonel Mohammed Alhassan Ma’aji (N/10668) and others intended to commit treason, did not give the information thereof with all reasonable despatch to either the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria or a peace officer and thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 40(b) of the Criminal Code Cap C38 LFN 2004.’

“That you, Major General Mohammed Ibrahim Gana (Rtd); Captain (NN) Erasmus Ochegobia Victor (Rtd); Inspector Ahmed Ibrahim (AP776373); Zekeri Umoru; Bukar Kashim Goni; Abdulkadir Sani; Timipre Sylva (still at large); and others, sometime in the year 2025, in Abuja within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, knowing that Colonel Mohammed Alhassan Ma’aji (N/10668) and others intended to commit treason, did not use any reasonable endeavours to prevent the commission of the offence and thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 40(b) of the Criminal Code Cap C38 LFN 2004.

“That you, Major General Mohammed Ibrahim Gana (Rtd); Captain (NN) Erasmus Ochegobia Victor (Rtd); Inspector Ahmed Ibrahim (AP776373); Zekeri Umoru; Bukar Kashim Goni; Abdulkadir Sani; Timipre Sylva (still at large); and others, sometime in the year 2025 in Abuja within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, conspired with one another to commit an act of terrorism in the Federal Republic of Nigeria and thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 26(1) of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.

“That you, Inspector Ahmed Ibrahim (AP776373) and Zekeri Umoru, sometime in the year 2025 in Abuja, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, in a bid to further a political ideology which may seriously destabilise the constitutional structure of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, knowingly participated in meetings connected with an act of terrorism and thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Sections 2(3)(d) and 12(a) of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.

“That you, Bukar Kashim Goni, in September 2025, in Abuja, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, indirectly retained the aggregate sum of N50,000,000.00 (fifty million naira) only in your First Bank Account Number 3021511166 from A & A Express Link Concept, which sum you reasonably ought to have known forms part of the proceeds of an unlawful act, to wit: terrorism financing, and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 18(2)(d) of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022 and punishable under Section 18(3) of the same Act.

“That you, Zekeri Umoru, in September 2025, in Abuja, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, without going through a financial institution accepted a cash payment of the sum of N10,000,000.00 (Ten Million Naira) only from Colonel Mohammed Alhassan Ma’aji and thereby committed an offence contrary to Sections 2(1)(a) and 19(1)(d) of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, and punishable under Section 19(2)(b) of the same Act.

“That you, Zekeri Umoru, in September 2025, in Abuja, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, indirectly retained the aggregate sum of N8,800,000.00 (eight million, eight hundred thousand Naira) only in your Zenith Bank Plc account number 2006041878, which sum you reasonably ought to have known forms part of the proceeds of an unlawful act, to wit: terrorism financing, and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 18(2)(d) of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022 and punishable under Section 18(3) of the same Act.

“That you, Inspector Ahmed Ibrahim, in September 2025, in Abuja, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, directly took possession of the sum of N1,000,000.00 (one million naira) only from Colonel Mohammed Alhassan Ma’aji (N/10668), which sum you reasonably ought to have known forms part of the proceeds of an unlawful act, to wit: terrorism financing, and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 18(2)(d) of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022 and punishable under Section 18(3) of the same Act.”

The Federal High Court in Abuja on Wednesday ordered the remand of six defendants in the custody of the Department of State Services after they were arraigned on a 13-count charge bordering on alleged terrorism.

At the sitting, which commenced at about 1:46pm, the Attorney-General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), informed the court that the charge was ready and sought leave to have it read to the defendants.

Proceedings were briefly stalled after the third defendant informed the court that his counsel was indisposed, while counsel to the sixth defendant said his client understood only Arabic and Hausa, prompting the court to stand down the matter to secure an interpreter.

When the court reconvened at about 2:18 pm, all six defendants took their pleas and denied the allegations, pleading not guilty to the 13 counts.

Following the arraignment, the prosecution applied for their remand in DSS custody and urged the court to grant an accelerated hearing of the case, a request that was not opposed by most defence counsel, although the first defendant’s lawyer indicated an intention to file a bail application.

Ruling, the trial judge ordered an accelerated hearing, directed that the defendants be remanded in DSS custody with access to their lawyers, and adjourned the matter till April 27, 2026, for commencement of trial

Video

Ex Gov Okowa Accuses Sen Nwoko Of Plot To Shift Anioma To South East, Scrap Asaba As Capital

2026-04-22T07:44:00.011+01:00

Former Delta State Governor, Ifeanyi Okowa, has criticised Senator Ned Nwoko over his position on the proposed Anioma State, accusing him of pursuing an agenda that could undermine the region’s interests.

Okowa made the remarks on Tuesday while addressing stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oshimili South Local Government Area during consultations ahead of his 2027 senatorial ambition.

He alleged that Nwoko was scheming to align Anioma with the South-East geopolitical zone and diminish the status of Asaba as a state capital, a move he described as misguided and unacceptable to the people of Delta North.

According to Okowa, the people of Anioma are united in their demand for the creation of a separate state within the South-South geopolitical zone, comprising the nine local government areas, with Asaba as its headquarters.

“There have been misconceptions and misrepresentations in the media regarding Anioma State,” he said, stressing that no Anioma indigene is opposed to the state’s creation under the South-South framework.

In an apparent reference to Nwoko, Okowa criticised attempts to alter the status of Asaba, noting that significant efforts had been made to establish the city as the capital of Delta State.

“An Asaba daughter fought for us and today we have Asaba as headquarters. Someone who does not understand how it came about now wants to wish it away. That is unwise,” he said.

The former governor also faulted Nwoko’s approach to the Anioma State campaign, describing it as lacking broad consultation and grassroots input.

He emphasised the need for inclusive dialogue, noting that any successful push for state creation must reflect the collective will of the people.

Okowa further questioned the timing of Nwoko’s advocacy, pointing out that legislative processes for state creation were not currently at a decisive stage.

He warned against misleading the public, insisting that the realisation of Anioma State would depend on a united position by stakeholders and alignment with constitutional procedures.

He reaffirmed that the demand for Anioma State remains strong but must be pursued collectively, in collaboration with the current administration and the people of the region.

Revealed: Why Tinubu Sacked Finance Minister Wale Edun

2026-04-22T07:42:00.006+01:00

That have been speculations on why President Bola Tinubu removed the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, in a dramatic cabinet reshuffle that has sent shockwaves through the Federal Executive Council

One of them is the renewed attention on the lawmaker who first exposed the financial scandal now haunting the administration.

That lawmaker is Hon. Alex Mascot Ikwechegh, the member representing Aba North/Aba South Federal Constituency, whose relentless questioning during a February budget defence hearing laid bare a staggering truth: ₦1.15 trillion in approved capital funds had vanished into thin air, with zero disbursement to any capital project across Nigeria.

It was Wednesday, February 25, 2026, when Hon. Mascot—a key member of the House Committee on Aids and Loans—took the floor at the Appropriation Committee's budget defence session. Armed with insider documents from his committee assignment, he painted a disturbing picture: billions of dollars in loans had been secured, record revenues had been generated by FIRS and Customs, yet not a single kobo had reached any capital project. Roads, hospitals, schools—all left to rot while funds sat untouched.

Then came the question that silenced the entire room: "Why the capital of the Nigerian government remains at zero in 2026?"

When a flustered Minister Edun tried to shift responsibility to his Minister of State, Doris Uzoka-Anite, Hon. Mascot refused to back down. The committee adjourned and summoned her. She appeared the next day, confirmed the funds were approved, but blamed "pre-disbursement conditions." Hon. Mascot was ready. He asked her a simple question: name one ministry that met all conditions and was still denied funding. She could not name a single one.

Exactly one week later, on March 3, Uzoka-Anite was removed as Minister of State for Finance—her third portfolio in two years.

Now, less than two months after that historic hearing, Wale Edun has also been sacked. The Secretary to the Government of the Federation announced his removal in a memo dated April 20, 2026, citing the need to "strengthen cohesion" in governance. Taiwo Oyedele, who was appointed Minister of State after Uzoka-Anite's fall, has now been elevated to substantive Minister of Finance.

There is the theory of the failing health of the Minister

Few months ago , Mr Edun took a short leave to attend to his health

Rumour had it that he suffered a stroke , which he later debunked but those in the know claimed the former Lagos State Commissioner has not been in the best of health and not performing optimally in a very sensitive Ministry hence the need for him to step aside to take care of his health

Malami: Judge Threatens Contempt, Warns Counsel Against Unruly Conduct

2026-04-22T07:02:00.005+01:00

Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court, Maitama, Abuja, on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, warned counsel appearing before her against engaging in conduct capable of stalling proceedings, threatening to invoke the court’s contempt powers where necessary.

The warning came during proceedings in a matter involving the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC and a former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, over properties linked to him.

At the hearing, counsel to the EFCC, J.S. Okutepa, SAN, informed the court that he had earlier received a call from lead defence counsel, J.B. Daudu, SAN, notifying him of his engagement at the Court of Appeal on time-sensitive matters and indicating that a representative would attend with a letter to that effect.

“My Lord, I came and met the letter which was given to us, showing that he is before the Court of Appeal in two matters involving the PDP. But before then, My Lord, I had written to the learned senior counsel expressing my profound displeasure over the manner we have been treated in this matter,” Okutepa said.

In her response, Justice Abdulmalik emphasized the need for strict compliance with court directives, noting that the interim forfeiture order had been published for fourteen days to enable interested parties to show cause.

“My directive is that this interim forfeiture was placed in a newspaper for fourteen days for parties to show cause. I am going to give a definite date for hearing. Any counsel whose processes are not in will be deemed to have shut himself out,” she said.

The judge further warned against any form of misconduct in court, stating: “If you are not satisfied with my decision, you can approach the appellate court. But at the next adjourned date, this matter will be heard. If your processes are not filed, they will be deemed abandoned. I will not entertain any rascality from any lawyer who decides to be unruly in my court. If need be, I will cite you for contempt, dock you and jail you.”

Justice Abdulmalik subsequently ordered all parties and interested persons to file and serve their processes on or before April 27, 2026.

“All parties and interested parties must file and serve their processes on or before April 27, 2026. Any defaulting party has shut itself out. Any process served after that date will not be recognized by this court,” she ruled.

She added that responses must be filed within stipulated timelines to ensure readiness for hearing.

The matter was adjourned to May 26, 2026, for the hearing of all pending applications.

Misconduct:167 Senior Police Officers Face Disciplinary Committee

2026-04-22T06:57:00.002+01:00

The Nigeria Police Force has commenced the sitting of the Force Disciplinary Committee (FDC) to review pending disciplinary matters involving one hundred and sixty-seven (167) senior police officers over alleged breaches of professional conduct and other related offences.

The exercise, which is currently underway at the Force Headquarters, Abuja, is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen internal accountability, enforce discipline, and uphold professional standards across the Nigeria Police Force.

The Force Disciplinary Committee, a key internal mechanism, is responsible for the review and determination of cases involving senior officers of the rank of Assistant Superintendent of Police and above. The process ensures a thorough, transparent, and fair examination of all matters in accordance with extant laws and regulations, with appropriate recommendations to the Police Service Commission.

The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, psc(+), NPM, reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to discipline, integrity, and professionalism, noting that no officer found culpable of misconduct will be shielded from due process.

The IGP emphasized that the ongoing disciplinary proceedings form part of broader institutional reforms aimed at strengthening internal control mechanisms, promoting ethical conduct, and enhancing public confidence in the Force.

The Nigeria Police Force reiterates its resolve to uphold the highest standards of accountability and service, ensuring that all officers conduct themselves in line with the core values of the profession.

Insecurity: US Lawmaker Tackles Matawalle

2026-04-22T06:51:00.000+01:00

A fresh controversy has erupted over Nigeria’s deepening security crisis after a United States legislator alleged that the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, attempted to suppress international scrutiny of ongoing killings across parts of the country.

The allegations were made by Kimberly Daniels, a member of the Florida House of Representatives and Chairwoman of the United World Congress of Diplomats (UN-WCD), during a Facebook live broadcast where she accused the minister of seeking to influence American officials through coordinated messaging.

Daniels alleged that following her recent statement on what she described as targeted killings of Christians in Nigeria, she came under pressure from individuals she linked to Matawalle, including efforts she described as attempts to discredit her report and “buy support” from US-based elected officials.

She said an unnamed American lawmaker was allegedly “persuaded” to publicly counter her position and defend Nigeria’s defence leadership.

She also claimed to have received evidence of a communication, including a prepared statement and promotional material, purportedly linked to the minister, attempts she said were designed to divide American elected officials, “not knowing that they are united.”

“I am speaking on behalf of people who say they are under attack,” Daniels stated, adding that her intervention was a call for investigation rather than outright accusation.

The lawmaker further dismissed attempts to intimidate or silence her, asserting her constitutional right to speak on international human rights issues as an elected official.

The controversy followed a report released by Daniels on April 14, 2026, in her capacity as head of the UN-WCD, which raised concerns over escalating violence in Nigeria’s North Central and North West.

The report referenced attacks during the Easter period in states, including Plateau, Kaduna, and Nasarawa, and highlighted what it described as growing gaps between government assurances and realities on ground.

The document also questioned the continued leadership of the defence ministry under Matawalle, citing what it described as “credibility and integrity concerns”.

It recommended a review of Nigeria’s security leadership and called on President Bola Tinubu to consider a redeployment of the minister, alongside a transparent investigation into the allegations.

Daniels maintained that her position was informed by testimonies from affected communities, members of the Nigerian diaspora, and findings from the UN-WCD’s multinational network spanning the United States, Nigeria, Ghana, the United Kingdom and Canada.

Disobedience To Order : Court Warns Samuel Anyanwu, INEC Chairman Amupitan

2026-04-22T06:47:00.001+01:00

The High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, has issued a notice of consequences of disobedience of court order against the national secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party, Samuel Anyanwu and the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Prof Joash Amupitan.

The court, in Form 48 dated 20th April 2026, cited on Tuesday, warned that they risk imprisonment if they fail to comply with its January 12, 2026, judgment dismissing Anyanwu’s suit challenging his expulsion from the PDP.

In the FCT High Court, public notice in Suit No. CV/1050/2025, Anyanwu is listed as the respondent, while key PDP figures, including Damagum, representing the party’s National Executive Committee, are listed alongside others as judgment creditors/applicants.

The notice, titled Form 48, warned of the consequences of disobedience to the judgment of the court delivered on January 12, 2026.

It read, “Take notice that unless you stop further disobedience and comply forthwith/obey the judgment/order of the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, made on the 12th of January 2026, which dismissed the suit of Senator Samual N. Anyanwu challenging his expulsion from the Peoples Democratic Party, you will be guilty of contempt and you will be liable to be committed to prison.”

It was specifically directed at Senator Anyanwu and Prof Amupitan, with service indicated at their respective Abuja addresses, in line with enforcement procedures following the court’s ruling.

The PDP has been mired in a prolonged crisis, splitting into two factions: one led by Tanimu Turaki (SAN) and backed by Governors Seyi Makinde (Oyo) and Bala Mohammed (Bauchi), and the other led by Abdulrahman Mohammed, with the support of FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike.

Several suits filed by both camps are still pending in court.

On March 10, 2025, the party’s National Disciplinary Committee recommended the expulsion of Anyanwu over alleged anti-party activities, a decision later ratified by the leadership.

On November 15, 2025, during the disputed Ibadan convention, the party under Acting National Chairman Umar Damagum expelled Anyanwu, Wike, and Ayodele Fayose, though the courts later nullified the convention.

Anyanwu subsequently approached the FCT High Court in Suit No. CV/1050/2025, but on January 12, 2026, Justice Yusuf Halilu dismissed the case.

He then filed an appeal on April 10, 2026, at the Court of Appeal, Abuja.

Despite the legal battles, Anyanwu played a key role in the Wike-backed convention held March 29–30, 2026, in Abuja, which produced Mohammed as national chairman and retained him as national secretary, a leadership later recognised by the Independent National Electoral Commission.

Seeking redress, the Tanimu Turaki-led faction, in a strongly worded letter dated April 16, 2026, and addressed to INEC Chairman, Prof Amupitan, through its counsel, Abdullahi Ibrahim (SAN), called for the immediate withdrawal of recognition of Anyanwu as both a party member and national secretary.

The letter referenced the January 12, 2026, judgment of the FCT High Court, delivered by Justice Halilu in Suit No. FCT/HC/CV/1050/2025, which dismissed Anyanwu’s case and upheld his expulsion from the PDP.

The leadership maintained that Anyanwu lost his membership from the date of his expulsion and therefore lacks the legal authority to act on behalf of the party in any capacity.

It further argued that the notice of appeal filed on April 10, 2026, did not amount to a stay of execution, stressing that the judgment remained valid and enforceable under Section 287(3) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

The letter read, “Senator Samuel Anyanwu has ceased to be a member and officer of the Peoples Democratic Party and has no competence to act on behalf of the party in any capacity whatsoever since his expulsion…

“By implication, the judgment dismissing his case remains subsisting and in force, and the commission has a constitutional obligation to enforce, comply with, and implement the judgment… even without prompting from the Peoples Democratic Party.”

Turaki camp warned that “Should the commission fail, refuse or neglect to comply with our demands and give any further recognition to Senator Samual Anyanwu as the national secretary of the party, we shall have no further recourse to the commission regarding the necessary steps we shall take in ensuring that justice is done in this matter and to our clients, which steps may include filing contempt proceedings against the chairman of the commission as well as instituting an action to challenge the decision of the commission.”

El-Rufai To Remain In ICPC Custody Till June

2026-04-22T06:38:00.744+01:00

Justice Darius Khobo of the Kaduna State High Court has deferred the bail application of former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, to the first week of June 2026.

El-Rufai is currently being prosecuted on several counts relating to alleged financial impropriety and abuse of office by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).

Speaking with journalists after the session, El-Rufai’s counsel, Ukpon Akpan, faulted the continued postponement of the bail hearing by the presiding judge, describing it as “politically motivated”.

The former governor reportedly arrived at the court around 9 a.m. in a convoy, accompanied by officials of the ICPC and operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS).

During the proceedings, El-Rufai’s supporters assembled outside the courtroom, while security agencies maintained order and restricted movement around the court vicinity.

The development means that the African Democratic Congress (ADC) chieftain will remain in custody till June, when the court will decide whether to grant him bail, or keep him in detention.

Security Operatives Nab Notorious Criminals, Bandits Terrorising Rivers Community

2026-04-22T06:34:00.009+01:00

Security operatives in Eleme Local Government Area of Rivers State have arrested two suspected criminals linked to a series of criminal activities, including the theft of a vehicle within the area.

The arrest followed a directive by the Chairman of Eleme LGA, Hon. Obariollormate Ollor, who, at the inception of his administration, declared zero tolerance for criminality and vowed that the council would no longer serve as a safe haven for lawbreakers.

Acting on this mandate, the Chief Security Officer (CSO) of the council, Mr. Greg Emere, alongside his team, launched a coordinated security operation tagged “Operation Red Alert,” aimed at flushing out criminal elements across the LGA.

According to reports , the suspects had been on the radar of security operatives since April 5, 2026, when a stolen Toyota Corolla was discovered hidden along the New Road axis in Onne. Subsequent investigations reportedly traced the crime to the arrested individuals, prompting an intensive manhunt.

The suspects were eventually apprehended after weeks of surveillance and intelligence gathering. During interrogation, they allegedly confessed to their involvement in the crimes.

Authorities confirmed that the suspects have been handed over to the Nigeria Police Force for prosecution, emphasizing that the council remains committed to upholding the rule of law.

Officials also reiterated that there would be no room for jungle justice in Eleme, assuring residents that due legal processes would be followed while efforts to rid the area of criminal elements continue.

EFCC Arrests Fake Lawyer In Lagos

2026-04-21T19:25:00.004+01:00

Operatives of the Lagos Zonal Directorate 2 of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission EFCC, Ikoyi, Lagos have commenced an investigation of a suspected fake lawyer, John Anoruo, for possession of a forged seal of the Nigerian Bar Association, NBA.

Anoruo, who operates a legal and educational consultancy in the Ikorodu area of Lagos, was arrested by EFCC operatives on Monday, April 20, 2026.

His case began after he submitted a petition dated September 22, 2025 to the EFCC, on behalf of his clients, against the management of a company, Global West Vessel Specialist Nigeria Limited.

However, investigations revealed that both the petition and the subsequent Letter of Withdrawal dated March 5, 2026, bore a forged seal of the Nigerian Bar Association, NBA, which Anoruo confessed to have obtained from an undisclosed business centre in Lagos.

During investigations,the 55-year-old claimed that although he obtained a Law degree in 2018 from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu State, through evening classes, he did not attend the Nigerian Law School.

The suspect will be charged to court as soon as investigations are concluded.

Appeal Court Slams Abure, Dismisses Suit As Frivolous, Affirms Nenadi Usman As Labour Party Chairman

2026-04-21T19:10:00.004+01:00

In a decisive judgment that could reshape the internal power dynamics of the Labour Party ahead of future elections, the Court of Appeal sitting in Abuja has dismissed the appeal filed by former National Chairman, Julius Abure, describing his suit as “frivolous and devoid of merit.”

The ruling, delivered on April 21, 2026, by a three-man panel of justices, not only upheld the earlier decision of the Federal High Court but also reaffirmed the recognition of the interim leadership of the party led by Nenadi Usman and Darlington Nwokocha as Interim National Chairman and Interim National Secretary respectively.

In a unanimous verdict, the appellate court ruled that Abure’s appeal lacked substance and failed to present any credible legal argument to overturn the earlier judgment.

The justices emphasized that the matter of constituting an interim leadership falls strictly within the internal affairs of the Labour Party, thereby limiting the scope of judicial interference.

According to the court, the original suit filed at the lower court was directed against the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), not against the internal workings of the party—making the appeal fundamentally flawed.

In a strongly worded rebuke, the Court of Appeal also took issue with an earlier interim order issued by a Nasarawa State High Court judge against Senator Nenadi Usman.

The appellate court described the order as “reckless” and declared that the judge acted outside his jurisdiction, thereby rendering the directive invalid in law.

Legal analysts say this aspect of the judgment sends a strong signal against judicial overreach in political matters, especially those relating to party administration.

In what observers consider a significant deterrent against what the court views as abuse of judicial process, the panel imposed a cost of ₦10 million against Abure.

The fine underscores the court’s position that the appeal was not only weak but also unnecessary, further reinforcing the legitimacy of the interim leadership arrangement.

The ruling is expected to have far-reaching implications for the Labour Party as it navigates internal restructuring and prepares for future political contests.

By affirming the leadership of Nenadi Usman and Darlington Nwokocha, the court has effectively settled a major leadership dispute that has lingered within the party.

Political observers believe the judgment could stabilize the party’s structure, strengthen its organizational coherence, and reposition it ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Army Arrest IPOB Kingpin Behind Killing Of Policeman In Delta

2026-04-21T18:48:00.003+01:00

In a sustained offensive and concerted efforts to rid the South East and environs of criminal elements, troops of Sector 2, Operation UDO KA operating in the ongoing Operation EASTERN SANITY in Ebonyi State have successfully arrested a notorious Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and Eastern Security Network (ESN) kingpin popularly known as 'Calamity' and four others during a raid on the terrorists' hideout in Nwofe, Izzi Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, in the early hours of today, 21 April 2026.

The operation was conducted following credible intelligence that linked the suspect and his cohort to the killing of a police officer and the injury of another during an attack at Okuku-Igbo in Oshimili North LGA, Delta State on 26 February 2026. During that attack, the assailants carted away two AK-47 rifles.

In an attempt to evade arrest after intensified security operations in Delta State, “Calamity” and his men relocated to Ebonyi State to look for a safe haven and established a new criminal camp to continue their violent activities.

Acting on actionable intelligence, troops stormed the hideout and apprehended five suspects, including the commander (Calamity) and 4 other suspects who are also key members of IPOB/ESN.

At the time of arrest, “Calamity” was found in possession of a black handbag containing five mobile phones and numerous keys. Additional exhibits recovered included a black Kcsanya motorcycle. The suspects are currently in custody and undergoing further investigation to dismantle the wider network of criminal collaborators and recover other weapons hidden by the group.

This successful operation underscores the determination of the Nigerian Armed Forces in collaboration with other security agencies to neutralize terrorist threats, restore peace, and protect law-abiding citizens across the region.

The military reiterates its commitment to safeguarding lives and property and calls on members of the public to continue supporting security agencies with timely information that will aid ongoing operations.

Breaking: Tinubu Sacks Minister Of Finance Wale Edun And His Counterpart In Ministry Of Housing

2026-04-21T18:24:00.007+01:00

President Bola Tinubu has approved a minor reshuffle of the Federal Executive Council, removing the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, and the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Dangiwa, from their cabinet positions.

A statement on Tuesday by the Special Adviser, Media and Publicity to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Yomi Odunuga, said the development was contained in a memo signed by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume.

According to the memo, Taiwo Oyedele has been appointed as the new Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy.

Also appointed is Dr. Muttaqha Darma as Minister-designate for Housing and Urban Development.

The memo directed the outgoing ministers to complete handover processes to their respective successors or supervising officials.

It stated that all handing over and taking over activities must be concluded on or before the close of business on Thursday, 23rd April, 2026.

Explaining the decision, Akume said the changes were aimed at improving coordination and strengthening delivery across key sectors of the economy under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

“These changes are aimed at strengthening cohesion, synergy in governance as well as achieving more impactful delivery on the economy to Nigerians, through the Renewed Hope Agenda,” Akume stated.

He added that President Tinubu acted in line with his constitutional powers as provided under Sections 147 and 148 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

The SGF also conveyed the President’s appreciation to the outgoing ministers for their service to the nation and wished them well in their future endeavours, noting that the process of cabinet reinvigoration would remain continuous.

The statement further noted that Taiwo Oyedele was appointed as Minister of State for Finance in March 2026, while Edun was among the ministers appointed on August 16, 2023.

Full Statement

OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY TO THE GOVERNMENT OF THE FEDERATION

Tinubu approves minor cabinet reshuffle as Edun, Dangiwa leave FEC

.....Oyedele elevated to Finance Minister; Darma ministerial nominee

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved a minor cabinet reshuffle in the membership of the Federal Executive Council.

According to a memo signed by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, two cabinet members, Mr. Wale Edun and Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa are to leave the cabinet while their replacements have been named.

Edun, until the latest development, was the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister for the Economy. He has been directed to hand over to Mr. Taiwo Oyedele who is now to take over as Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy. Oyedele was formerly a Minister of State in the ministry.

Also Mr. Muttaqha Rabe Darma (PhD .) has been named as the ministerial nominee and minister designate for the Housing and Urban Development Ministry.

The memo also directed Dangiwa to hand over to the Minister of State in the ministry.

The memo stated that "all handing over and taking over processes should be completed on or before close of business on Thursday 23rd April, 2026."

Explaining the President's decision, Akume said: "These changes are aimed at strengthening cohesion, synergy in governance as well as achieving more impactful delivery on the economy to Nigerians, through the Renewed Hope Agenda."

He said the President, in approving the cabinet reshuffle, has fully exercised his powers as conferred on him by Sections 147 and 148 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (1999, as amended).

The President thanked the outgoing ministers for their services to the nation while wishing them the best in all their future endeavours.

The President, Akume noted, equally assured all cabinet members that "the process of reinvigoration shall be continuous."

Signed:

Yomi Odunuga,

Special Adviser, Media and Publicity to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation

21-04-2026

Law School DG Welcomes New Students ,Unveils ARISE Agenda

2026-04-21T14:50:00.001+01:00

The Director-General of the Nigerian Law School, Dr. Olugbemisola Titilayomi Odusote, on Thursday, 17th April 2026, delivered a formal welcome address to newly admitted students of the 2025/2026 academic session at the Headquarters, Bwari, Abuja.

She urged the students to uphold discipline, professionalism, and academic excellence, emphasizing strict compliance with the School’s Code of Conduct and zero tolerance for examination malpractice, indiscipline, and misconduct.

Dr. Odusote introduced the #ARISE Framework—Academic Excellence, Research and Renewed Service, Infrastructural Rebirth, Sustainability and Stakeholder Engagement, and Enabled Digitization—as the guiding vision of the institution.

She encouraged students to actively engage in lectures and group activities , make full use of their lecturers as mentors, and maintain proper conduct and appropriate dressing throughout their stay.

The Director-General warmly welcomed the students to the Nigerian Law School, describing it as a very big experience, and said together we will achieve academic excellence.