news afd

Fabian Hurzeler, Brighton boss, has named Manchester City’s Pep Guardiola as the world’s best coach. Hurzeler disclosed this after guiding Brighton to beat Man City 2-1 in the Premier League on Sunday. Recall that two goals from James Milner and Brajan Gruda gave Brighton the win against the Cityzens. Erling Haaland netted City’s only goal against the hosts at the American Express Stadium. Speaking to BBC Match of the Day after the encounter, Hurzeler said: “Pep [Pep Guardiola] is for me the best coach in the world and it is always a big challenge to face him. “He always had new ideas and you have to adapt. It is always the biggest challenge to compete against him.” The result leave Brighton in 11th position, ahead of Man City in 13th position. EPL: Brighton manager, Fabian Hurzeler names world’s best coach

Ruth Otabor, sister of Big Brother Naija winner Phyna, has tragically lost her life after being hit by a Dangote Cement truck. ​The family announced her passing on Sunday in a statement issued by Eko Solicitors & Advocates. The statement confirmed that Ruth passed away on Sunday morning at about 6:30 am. “With a heavy heart, the family regrets to announce the passing on to glory of their daughter, sister, and mother on Sunday 31st day of August, 2025, at about 06:30 hrs,” it stated. Ruth was crushed in an accident at Auchi Polytechnic, Edo State, on Wednesday, August 13, 2025. Following outrage from Phyna after her sister’s legs were amputated, Dangote Cement pledged to take responsibility for Ruth’s medical care. However, in a recent statement, Phyna alleged that the company failed to send her sister abroad for treatment as promised. Further details revealed that the accident occurred just six days after Ruth graduated from Auchi Polytechnic. Phyna’s sister Ruth confirmed...

Chelsea have stopped their striker, Nicolas Jackson, from joining Bayern Munich on loan The Blues now want the Senegalese to remain at Stamford Bridge. This is following an injury that could keep their no.9, Liam Delap out for the period of six to eight weeks. The England international was injured on Saturday during Chelsea’s 2-0 win over Fulham at Stamford Bridge. Football transfer expert, David Ornstein quoted The Athletic, to report that Chelsea have told the German Bundesliga side that Jackson will no long be allowed to leave. Before the injury to Delap, Jackson was heading to the Bundesliga giants. Chelsea boss, Enzo Maresca earlier admitted that the Blues would be short of strikers following the injury to Delap. He admitted that they needed to find a quick solution. Bayern Munich and Chelsea had already agreed £13 million deal agreed on Saturday. Transfer: Chelsea block Nicolas Jackson from leaving Stamford Bridge this summer

Troops of the Nigerian Army have intercepted 242 bags of NPK fertiliser suspected to be diverted for use in the production of Improvised Explosive Devices, IEDs by terrorists in Borno. A credible source at Army Headquarters confirmed the development to NAN on Friday in Abuja. The source said the operation underscored the army’s vigilance in cutting off critical logistics to insurgents. According to him, troops of 151 Task Force Battalion at Banki Junction in Bama Local Government Area, LGA intercepted a truck conveying 142 bags of NPK 20-10-10 fertiliser on Wednesday. He said that preliminary checks showed that the consignment, approved for delivery to Mbalala ward in Chibok LGA, was instead diverted through Bama en route Askira-Uba, raising suspicions of terrorist linkage. “In a related development, troops of 21 Military Intelligence Regiment in collaboration with 21 Provost Company intercepted another truck loaded with 100 bags of NPK 20-10-10 fertiliser, 79 bags ...

The Department of State Services, DSS, on Thursday filed charges at the Federal High Court, Abuja, against nine suspects allegedly linked to the recent deadly attacks on Yelwata, Guma Local Government Area of Benue State, and parts of Plateau State. The attacks left more than 40 people dead, many others injured, and hundreds displaced in both states. The massacre in Yelwata prompted a visit by President Bola Tinubu, during which he urged the people of Benue to learn to live in peace. He also charged security agents to fish out the killers. According to the charge sheet before the court, the suspects appeared to have been arrested across ethnic and religious lines. The document stated that one Haruna Adamu, Muhammad Abdullahi of Awe LGA, Nasarawa State, and others still at large, had on June 13, 2025, allegedly carried out attacks against the people of Abinsi and Yelwata villages. The offence, the DSS said, is contrary to and punishable under Section 12 of the Terrorism Prevention...

The Kano State Government has warned nutrition coordinators not to steal, sell, or divert therapeutic food meant for malnourished children.  The state said anyone caught doing this will be arrested and prosecuted. Dr. Abubakar Labaran Yusuf, Kano’s Commissioner for Health, made the warning at a meeting that closed the MIYCN and MMS programme run by the FHI 360 Alive and Thrive Nigeria Project.  The meeting reviewed the programme’s results and the state’s plans after the project activities ended. Dr. Yusuf said the state will not accept actions that harm efforts to improve the health of mothers, children and adolescents. He stressed that security agencies are watching distribution closely.  “Let me inform you that security agencies are monitoring all activities closely. Any Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food (RUTF) that goes missing will have consequences. Make sure you do not collude with anyone to divert these supplements. They are meant solely for malnourished childre...

Stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Enugu State, have declared total support for President Bola Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections. This formed part of their communique after a one-day meeting held in Enugu on Tuesday. DAILY POST reports that the stakeholders also expressed their readiness to welcome Governor Peter Mbah into the party. The communique was signed by a former Speaker, Enugu State House of Assembly, Barrister Eugene Odoh, (For Enugu North senatorial Zone); immediate past state chairman of the party, Dr. Ben Nwoye (For Enugu East Senatorial zone); Dr. El Ajah (Enugu West Senatorial zone); Hon. Dr. Oby Ajih (For APC National Assembly Candidates); Hon. Barr. Godwin Onwusi (For 2023 APC House of Assembly Candidates) and Dr. Alphonsus Nwafor, Acting State Chairman, (For State Exco). The stakeholders hailed Tinubu for “transformative leadership” and endorsed him for a second tenure come 2027. According to the communique, “the ADC coalition is an emb...

The Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, has accused the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, of turning Nigeria into a totalitarian one-party state. This was contained in a statement by the PDP’s National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, at the end of the 102nd meeting of the party’s National Executive Committee, NEC. The party described the actions of the APC as a “clear and present danger” to democracy and the corporate existence of Nigeria. It also condemned what it termed the APC’s resort to state capture through intimidation, manipulation, inducement, coercion and violence against Nigerians, citing the recent bye-elections in parts of the country. The PDP NEC criticised what it described as the militarisation of the recent bye-elections, particularly in Kaduna, Taraba and Zamfara states. “Excessive security agencies were deployed in the conduct of run-off election in only five polling units in Kaura Namoda South state constituency in Zamfara State. “We remain committed to...

The management of Gregory University, Uturu, Abia State, has said that lecturers and other staff of the institution are not being subjected to inhuman treatment, as reported by an online publication. The university, reacting to reports about an alleged slash in staff salaries and other subjugative policies, said that the false news was orchestrated by those it described as “disgruntled lecturers.” In a statement signed by its registrar, Vincent Maliki, Gregory University said that its salary structure was competitive and fair, considering the operational context of a private institution, but made it clear that the allegations about “exploitative and inhuman” treatment of staff were unfounded. Maliki, who stated that academic activities were not disrupted, reassured the public that the Rain Semester examinations were proceeding smoothly without interruption. “We will not be deterred by unfounded allegations and will continue to insist on full compliance with the biometric policy an...

Former Big Brother Naija housemate, Mercy Eke, has demanded that the organisers pay her N100 million as an appearance fee if they decide to hold a reunion for the all-stars season, where she was runner-up to the winner, Ilebaye, in 2023. DAILY POST reports that the organisers are yet to hold a reunion for the all-stars edition despite holding one for the succeeding edition, ‘No Loose Guard.’ Reacting to an X post by her colleague, Tolani Baj, claiming that “BBN Allstars reunion would have been the messiest yet best reunion in history,” Eke agreed that the reunion would be on an international level if the organisers held one. She wrote, “I’m so ready, just 100M. Our reunion is going to be on an international level. No side talks, no pity games, no fake tears. Just boss babes and wealthy gents having real grown-up conversations.” It remains unclear whether the organisers will hold a reunion for the All-stars season. The reality show is currently running its 10th edition, aptly theme...

The Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics, ASUP, has dismissed the Federal Government’s proposed loan scheme for its members as a mere distraction, insisting that all outstanding financial entitlements must first be settled. ASUP National President, Shammah Kpanja, made this known on Friday during a press conference organised by ASUP Zone B at its secretariat in the Federal Polytechnic, Bauchi. He expressed the union’s frustration with the government’s failure to address lingering issues despite several meetings with relevant agencies. It will be recalled that ASUP, following an emergency National Executive Council meeting on August 14 in Abuja, issued a 21-day ultimatum to the Federal Government to settle 12 months of salary arrears and other unresolved demands or face a nationwide strike. Kpanja said the government’s recent response—a letter suggesting members should wait for the implementation of the 2025 budget before any salary arrears would be paid—was unacceptable and contra...

The Ogun State Independent Electoral Commission, OGSIEC, has fixed Saturday, September 20, 2025, for a by-election to fill the vacant councillorship seat in Ilaro Ward 1, Yewa South Local Government Area. Chairman of the Commission, Babatunde Osibodu, disclosed this at a stakeholders’ meeting held at Oronna Hall, Ilaro, on Friday. He explained that the exercise had become necessary following the death of the incumbent Councillor, the late Adekanbi Olayinka. Osibodu, who was represented by the commissioner in charge of Legal Affairs, Mrs Remilekun Olaopa, emphasised that the election was not merely about filling a vacant seat but about deepening grassroots democracy. He said, “This election is not just about filling a seat. It is about honouring his memory and giving the people of Ilaro Ward 1 the opportunity to choose a new representative who will serve with dedication, honesty, and commitment.” He assured stakeholders of the commission’s readiness to conduct a credible poll, str...

A former presidential aspirant of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Adamu Garba, has pointed out what he described as Nigeria’s biggest mistake in the first quarter of this century. Garba said Nigeria’s inability to join the BRICS at the right time was the country’s biggest mistake of the century. In a statement he signed, Adamu said, “The biggest mistake Nigeria commitment in the first quarter of this century is not joining the BRICS at the right time. “Now we have collected so much Western Loans and monies, aligned our policies to Western interest, yet they have started targeting our government with bad press with a clearly targeted rejection campaigns against Nigeria. “Do you know that by January 2026, Europe will execute the ban on Cocoa export from Nigeria, purportedly for the crime of ‘deforestation’? “This is in addition to their efforts to repatriate hardened criminals from their country’s prisons to be integrated into our society, society already mired with terrorist, ...

Liverpool legend, Steven Gerrard has named three current best wingers in the world. The 45-year-old spoke during a recent quickfire round of questions with ESPN. When asked to name his best three wingers in the world at the moment, Gerrard selected Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal, Real Madrid’s Vinicius and Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah. The former Aston Villa head coach said: “Lamine Yamal, Vinicius and Mo Salah”. Yamal helped Barcelona to win the LaLiga title last season and he is considered as one of the top contenders for the 2025 Ballon d’Or. Vinicius finished as runners up in the 2024 Ballon d’Or, behind Rodri of Manchester City. Salah, meanwhile, helped Liverpool to win the Premier League title last season. Gerrard names world’s three best wingers

The Transmission Company of Nigeria, TCN, has said it has shelved arresting vandals of power facilities for the sensitization of members of the public against the negative implications of the illegal activities. DAILY POST reports that Engr Charles Iwuamadi, General Manager of TCN, Benin Region, disclosed this during a sensitisation programme at Umelu community in Benin, Edo State. Iwuamadi said the organisation is also sensitizing residents on the health implications and dangers of illegal erection of structures under high-tension transmission lines as well as encroachment. He added that the demolition of marked structures remained a last resort, noting that the company preferred community sensitisation over arrests and punitive measures. According to him, “We have a strategic plan to prevent the activities going on in some of these communities, like vandalism of power facilities, erection of structures on high-tension transmission lines and encroachment on the company’s right-of...

The Interim National Publicity Secretary of the African Democratic Congress, ADC, Bolaji Abdullahi, has berated President Bola Tinubu’s administration over non-appointment of ambassadors two years after assuming office. Abdullahi said the Tinubu-led All Progressives Congress, APC, Federal Government displayed its incompetence at the 9th Tokyo International Conference on Africa, TICAD9, in Japan. He was reacting to an X user, @Idrisayobello who lamented that Nigeria has the only unnamed booth at TICAD9. The user wrote: “I hate to show negative things about Nigeria but it is sad that Nigeria is the only unmanned booth at TICAD9 in Japan. Upon all the folks who probably got estacode for coming to Japan “Only God knows how many Japanese folks have asked me about the unmanned booth seeing my dressing. “So ashamed I have now designated myself as Honorary Consul and taken over the booth to engage visitors.” Responding, the ADC spokesman decried the inability of the Nigerian government ...

Troops of 63 Brigade/Sector 1 Joint Task Force Operation Delta Safe alongside the tracker team from the Delta State Government House, Asaba, have neutralized three kidnappers and rescued a lady who was being held captive in the Otulo Forest area of Aniocha North Local Government Area. Captain Iliyassu Bawa Rijau, Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations 63 Brigade, Asaba, in a statement said the operation followed credible information received about criminal activities in Issele Uku. Already, according to the statement, the kidnappers had demanded and received ransom from the victims’ families, before the troops neutralise them in their hideout. It said the exchange of fire between the bandits lasted for 30 minutes leading to the killing of three bandits, and recovering of AK-47 rifle, a magazine, 52 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, a cutlass, four mobile phones, a phone charger, a power bank and a pack of Benson cigarettes. The statement added that the troops recovere...

The Yobe State Hisbah Commission, in a joint security operation, raided Walawa community in Garin-Alkali, Bursari Local Government Area, where several arrests and seizures were made. The commission’s executive chairman, Dr Yahuza Hamza, disclosed this on Monday, noting that the operation was aimed at curbing immoral and anti-social activities deemed harmful to the moral fabric of society. According to him, during the operation, “A large consignment of alcohol, equivalent to four truck vehicles fully loaded, was confiscated. “Also, a total of 84 persons were arrested, comprising 50 women and 34 men engaged in prostitution,” he stated. He added that the commission had sealed all the houses involved in the acts, and that all the suspects are in custody and will be duly charged in court in accordance with the laws of Yobe State. “The Yobe State Hisbah Commission remains firmly committed to its objectives, which include promoting morality in line with Islamic teachings and cultural v...

Financial expert and educator, Kalu Aja, has likened Manchester United to the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, following the club’s defeat to Arsenal on Sunday. The remark comes after Manchester United suffered a 0-1 loss to Arsenal at Old Trafford, a result that further compounded their poor form after last season’s struggles in the English Premier League. DAILY POST reports that the Red Devils had been expected to perform better than their 15th-place finish from last season. However, in a post on X, Aja drew parallels between the football club and Nigeria’s state-owned oil company, citing legacy challenges and poor performance. “Manchester United is like NNPC Ltd: legacy assets, huge debt overhang, questionable leadership, no assets works, can’t deliver on strategic goals,” he wrote. EPL: Manchester United like NNPC Ltd – Kalu Aja

The leader of the Ansaru terrorist group with affiliation to Al-Qaeda, Abu Baraa, has been arrested by security agents. Baraa is wanted for masterminding several high-profile attacks in Nigeria. His arrest was made public on Saturday, by the National Security Adviser, NSA, Nuhu Ribadu, during a press briefing at the National Counter-Terrorism Centre in Abuja. Ribadu said Baraa has been on the radar of security agencies since May and was picked up in July. The NSA described the arrest as a major breakthrough in Nigeria’s fight against terrorism. Ribadu said: “I am glad to inform you that we have successfully concluded a high-risk, intelligence-led, counter-terrorism operation which led to the capture of the top leadership of Jama’atu Ansarul Muslimina fi-Biladis Sudan, commonly known as ANSARU, Nigeria’s Al-Qaeda affiliate. “The group was first formed in January 2012 with a public declaration in Kano. It emerged as a splinter faction from Boko Haram, positioning itself as a ‘huma...

Arsenal legend Tony Adams has insisted that his former club should have signed Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins instead of Viktor Gyokeres. Recall that Arsenal recently signed Gyokeres from Sporting CP in this summer transfer window, despite being linked with Watkins. Speaking during an Indo Sport season preview, Adams said as quoted by Metro UK: “The Portuguese lad [Gyokeres], I don’t know yet. He’s not tried and tested. “I would have liked to have seen them get Ollie Watkins to be honest with you. “He is a Gooner, he might have given us a year and we might have won the title.” Meanwhile, Arsenal will begin their new Premier League campaign this weekend, facing Manchester United at Old Trafford in their opening game. EPL: Tony Adams names striker Arsenal should have signed instead of Gyokeres

Biodun Fatoyinbo, the Global Senior Pastor of the Commonwealth of Zion Assembly, COZA, has apologized for comments he made about the late Apostle Joseph Ayo Babalola. The Abuja-based pastor purportedly claimed Babalola died as a poor man and also made mockery of his children. Fatoyinbo’s apology comes after the Christ Apostolic Church, CAC, hit back at his remarks, describing them as insensitive and ill-informed. In response, Fatoyinbo claimed he didn’t refer to Babalola and his children in bad light. He also noted that this can be verified from the raw copy of the sermon. The statement added: “Finally, I apologize if any other statement made by me has caused any form of distress, hurt or discontentment to the CAC, the family of the late Apostle Babalola or his associates. “I will never disrespect or speak of them in that manner either publicly or privately.” Pastor Biodun Fatoyinbo finally apologizes to CAC, Apostle Joseph Ayo Babalola’s children

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has relocated Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) centres from its offices in four local government areas of Borno State to Maiduguri, the state capital, due to security and safety concerns. The Resident Electoral Commissioner in Borno, Abubakar Ahmad, disclosed this on Thursday during a press briefing to officially announce the start of the 2025–2026 CVR exercise in the state. The affected LGAs are Abadam, Guzamala, Kala-Balge, and Marte. He said: “For security and factors relating to safety, four INEC LGAs offices will conduct the physical (in-person) registration at locations in Maiduguri Metropolises. The LGAs affected are: Abadam, Guzamala, Kala-Balge, and Marte LGAs.” Ahmad explained that INEC’s CVR centre for Abadam will now be at Baga Road, Guzamala’s at the Fire Service Department in 1,000 Housing Estate, Kala-Balge’s at Goni Kachalari Primary School, and Marte’s at Kachamai — all within Maiduguri metropolis. He sa...

The Court of Appeal has constituted an Election Petition Tribunal for the upcoming by-elections in Kano and Jigawa States, scheduled to be held on September 16, 2025. This was contained in a press statement signed by the Secretary of the Election Petition Tribunal and issued to newsmen in Dutse. According to the statement, “The general public is hereby notified that an Election Petition Tribunal has been constituted in Kano State for Kano and Jigawa States by the Honourable President of the Court of Appeal of Nigeria.” The statement explained that the Tribunal will hear and determine petitions arising from the by-elections slated for September 16, 2025, in the two states. The National and State Houses of Assembly Tribunal will sit at Court No. 18, High Court Complex, Miller Road, Kano, Kano State. The public is advised to direct further enquiries to the Registry of the Election Petition Tribunal. Court of Appeal Constitutes Election Petition Tribunal for Kano, Jigawa By-Election...

The All Progressives Congress, APC, in Taraba State has faulted governor Kefas Agbu’s state wide broadcast on the prolonged absence of the deputy governor of the state, Aminu Abdullahi Alkali, describing it as “mere rhetoric” without concrete solutions. In a statement issued Wednesday, by its State Publicity Secretary, Aaron Artimas, the party said the governor failed to address the constitutional implications of Alkali’s absence from office since last year. The APC recalled raising alarm when the absence exceeded the three months permitted by the constitution, calling it a “brazen violation” of the law. The party also accused the governor of “moralising and personalising” the matter while evoking religious sentiments instead of outlining a clear path forward. While expressing sympathy for Alkali’s health challenges, the party urged the state government to engage his family in “honest and sincere dialogue.” It recommended that if he cannot fully perform his duties, he should resi...

Real Madrid have asked FIFA and UEFA not to approve a LaLiga fixture between Barcelona and Villarreal in the United States. The Royal Spanish Football Federation, RFEF, has already given its approval for the game to go ahead. The match is scheduled to be played in December 2025. It is part of ideas from LaLiga president Javier Tebas, to take the Spanish league worldwide to globalise the competition and bring in more revenue. But Madrid have now voiced their firm opposition to the idea. In a published statement on Tuesday, Madrid claimed the proposal will affect “the competitive balance and granting an undue sporting advantage to the applicant clubs.” It added that “if this proposal is implemented, its consequences would be so serious that they would mark a turning point for the world of football.” LaLiga: Real Madrid ask UEFA, FIFA to block Barcelona vs Villarreal game in US

Manchester City have entered the race to sign Xavi Simons from RB Leipzig this summer. This is due to the likely departure of Savinho from the Etihad. Tottenham Hotspur are keen on signing Savinho and have opened talks with their Premier League rivals. With the Brazilian set to leave, City are now looking to replace him with Xavi. According to Mercato, they have reestablished contact with super agent Ali Barat in an attempt to lure Xavi away from Chelsea. The Blues have been negotiating for the midfielder for weeks, but are yet to reach a breakthrough. The 22-year-old could now find himself in a tug of war between City and Chelsea. Transfer: Man City to hijack Chelsea’s move for Xavi Simons

Abubakar Bala has been unveiled as the new technical adviser of Nigeria National League, NNL, side Lobi Stars. Bala was presented to the media in Makurdi on Monday. The young tactician is making a return to the Pride of Benue after his previous spell at the club. Lobi Stars were relegated from the Nigeria Professional Football League, NPFL, last season. Bala has been tasked with the responsibility of ensuring the club’s immediate return to the top flight. He will also face the challenge of rebuilding the team following the departure of several key players. NNL: Lobi Stars unveil new technical adviser Abubakar Bala

Activist and politician Omoyele Sowore has criticised former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, over his comment on ending corruption. Sowore described Amaechi as “a fool at 40” for claiming he would end corruption within one month if elected president. The former Rivers State governor made the statement during a discussion on X Space. However, Sowore noted that Amaechi had served as minister, governor, and Speaker, yet failed to curb corruption. In a video posted by SaharaReporters, Sowore said: “Amaechi said he would end corruption in one month, Amaechi has been a Speaker for eight years, governor for eight years making it 16 years. “He was Minister for eight years, making it 24 years. If you deduct 24 from 60 what do you say? A fool at 40 is a fool forever. “They are all deceiving you, yes we have alternatives and we have provided that we will participate but we are not bound by one alternative because we don’t have time on our side. “The clock is ticking and I kee...

Governor Hyacinth Alia has expressed deep sorrow over the death of elder statesman and former Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Chief Innocent Audu Ogbeh, who passed away on Saturday, August 9, 2025, at the age of 78. In a condolence message issued this morning, the governor described the news of Chief Ogbeh’s passing as heartbreaking, noting his distinguished political journey, which began in 1979 when he was elected into the Benue State House of Assembly under the National Party of Nigeria, NPN, and served as Deputy Speaker. Governor Alia praised the late Ogbeh’s illustrious career as a politician, former Federal Minister of Communications, former Minister of Steel Development, one-time National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, as well as a respected farmer and playwright. He said the revered leader “lived a fulfilled life and earned the admiration of many,” adding that his contributions would remain evergreen. The governor prayed for God’s comfort for...

The Nigerian International Coastal Border Platform has been tasked with proffering solutions to disputes along coastal boundaries. The Deputy Governor of Delta State, Sir Monday Onyeme, made the call on Friday at the inaugural summit of the Nigerian International Coastal Border Platform held in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, noting that there was a need to tap the benefits of the blue economy, especially in sustainable marine resource management — fisheries, tourism, and coastal infrastructure. The deputy governor expressed hope that the platform would also strengthen border governance. He disclosed that the administration of Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori has “made deliberate efforts to discourage conflict in areas affected by boundary disputes with neighbouring states.” According to him, “to fully tap into the potential of the blue economy, we must confront the pressing challenges that come with it, particularly piracy, smuggling and other maritime crimes that threaten national security and econ...

The member representing the South-East on the Board of the North East Development Commission, NEDC, Sam Onuigbo, has advised Nigerian governors to be transparent with the huge allocations they are receiving from the Federal Government. Onuigbo gave the advice on Friday in Umuahia during the Nigerian Institute of Management (Chartered) South-East Zonal Summit. He stated that allocations accruing to all states and their local governments since the removal of fuel subsidy have tripled compared to what previous governors received, adding that the people they lead should enjoy better living conditions. Onuigbo, who received an award from NIM at the summit, challenged the governors and their council chairmen to demonstrate full transparency in the management and utilisation of their substantial funds, to the benefit of the masses. “The governors are getting money, more than three times of what they got when I was the Commissioner for Finance. The local governments are also getting money ...

The National Union of Electricity Employees, NUEE, and the Amalgamated Union of Public Corporation, Civil Service Technical and Recreational Services Employees, AUPCTRE, have called on the Federal Government to urgently revoke the privatisation licences granted in the power and water sectors. In a joint statement, the unions declared: “We as Labour and trade unions have asked the federal government to reverse with immediate effect the privatisation of the sectors, because Nigeria was better off when the sectors were under government.” Speaking to journalists after a meeting in Kano, Ayuba Barde, NUEE’s North West Zonal Organising Secretary I, stated that the privatisation policy has had far-reaching negative consequences on the nation and must be reconsidered. He said: “From inception, we called the attention of Nigerians that this policy government is bringing on board is not good for the country because we work in the sector and know its strengths and what needed to be put in pla...

The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, has confirmed that the Labour Party will not participate in the upcoming National Assembly by-elections in Edo State, scheduled for next week. According to INEC, a total of nine political parties successfully submitted candidates for the elections, which will fill vacant seats in the Edo Central Senatorial District and the Ovia Federal Constituency. The vacancies arose following the emergence of Senator Monday Okpebholo and Hon. Dennis Idahosa as governor and deputy governor, respectively. Speaking at a press briefing in Benin City, the Resident Electoral Commissioner, REC, in Edo State, Prof Anugbum Onuoha, clarified that the Labour Party did not officially notify the commission of its intention to contest the elections, nor was its primary monitored by INEC. “From our records, the Labour Party and some other parties neither invited us to observe their primaries nor complied with the necessary procedures. In some cases, we arriv...

The Delta State Police Command has confirmed the recovery of N8,500,000 from suspected kidnappers. The State Commissioner of Police, Olufemi Abaniwonda, disclosed this on Tuesday while briefing newsmen in Asaba on the achievements of the command in July 2025. According to him, N5,000,000 was recovered on July 12, 2025, at about 6:30 am, when operatives of the Special Anti‑Kidnapping and Cybercrime Squad trailed suspected kidnappers to their hideout in Ogwashi‑Uku, Aniocha South Local Government Area. “A suspected kidnapper, Sanusi Abdulahi, was arrested in possession of the money,” he said. The Commissioner of Police stated that the sum was part of the ransom his gang had collected from their last victim. He further alleged that the gang was responsible for a series of kidnappings in Ibusa, Ogwashi‑Uku, Obulu‑Okiti, Issele‑Uku and Issele‑Asagba. In another development, the police recovered N3,500,000 from suspected kidnappers who had abducted two female polytechnic students. “T...

The Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly, Oludaisi Elemide, has tasked the leadership of the Artisans Association in the state to step up plans to support their members. He called for partnerships with relevant stakeholders to create platforms that will provide access to continuous learning and promote technical innovation in various trades and professions. The Speaker gave the charge while receiving the state chapter of the Artisans Association, led by its President, Anthony Ayodele. The courtesy call took place at the Assembly Complex, Oke‑Mosan, Abeokuta, on Tuesday. He stressed the need to actively engage younger generations in trade skills. This, he said, is a strategic way to ensure sustainability and growth in the informal sector. Elemide reaffirmed the Assembly’s commitment to inclusive development. He noted that the Abiodun‑led administration would continue to harness the resourcefulness of the association. He urged the association to adopt measures to develop its ...

The All Progressives Congress, APC, in Osun State has faulted the state’s Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, for petitioning the international community regarding alleged disobedience of a court order on local government allocations. In a press statement issued on Monday by Kola Olabisi, the Osun APC Director of Media and Information, the party described PDP’s action as a waste of time. The Osun APC also accused the PDP of misleading diplomatic and global human rights organisations. APC’s response followed a statement by the Osun PDP chairman, Sunday Bisi, on Monday, who alleged that the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, and the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, were complicit in withholding allocations due to the local governments in the state. According to PDP, both ministers were “plotting and executing the current local government crisis in Osun State through deliberate disobedience of a Court of Appeal judgment reco...