Adewole Adebayo, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), has dismissed the idea that Malam Nasir El-Rufai is representing the party in the coalition talks being held ahead of the 2027 election.
Following his fallout with the presidency, El-Rufai dumped the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) for the SDP in March. He has since been campaigning for an opposition coalition to wrest power from President Bola Tinubu and the ruling party in 2027.
As a member of the SDP, El-Rufai has been reaching out to other opposition politicians and other political leaders in the country to him in the party to form an alliance against the APC.
However, Adebayo has distanced the SDP from El-Rufai’s coalition campaign, saying the party is not in any coalition talks led by someone else.
He added that the leadership of the party has not assigned anyone to speak or negotiate on its behalf.
Speaking in an interview with Channels Television on Wednesday, Adebayo said, “The SDP is not involved in any coalition led by somebody else, but I can tell you, and the SDP is led by Alh. Shehu Gabam and Olu Agunloye, he has not given me an assignment to do coalition on his behalf. He’s not given any assignment to my senior brother, El-Rufai. El-Rufai is not representing SDP in any coalition.”
When asked if the SDP is entering a coalition, Adebayo said the party is waiting, planning and considering options.
He said, “The SDP is waiting, is expressing its own understanding of how best it will come together and remove this person and cause the APC and non performing president called Bola Tinubu.”
This isn’t the first time Adebayo has cautioned against internal hijack of the party. Back in April, he warned that recent defectors, including El-Rufai, would not be allowed to take over the SDP and use it as a platform for personal political battles.
“The SDP is a party with clear values and a national agenda. We welcome new , but no one will be allowed to turn this party into a tool for personal revenge or vendetta,” Adebayo had said.
Most Of My Commissioners Don’t Eat Well – Ebonyi Governor, Nwifuru Reveals (Video)
By Wisdom Nwedene
Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru of Ebonyi State has said that most of his commissioners don't eat well and should be pitied.
In the trending video seen by 9NEWS NIGERIA, Nwifuru also said he would not rush to commission projects because he still has “six years” ahead.
Speaking to pressmen on the status of ongoing state projects, the Governor stated:
“I am not in a haste to commission projects. I have done only two years, and by the grace of God, I still have six years. If I start commissioning projects now, it means that I am done.”
“I pity the wives of my commissioners. At times I call them during odd hours when leisure should be happening… most of my commissioners don’t eat well because of the times I call them—2 or 3 a.m.”
Recall that Nwifuru recently threatened to deal with anyone involved in any form of mismanagement or diversion of public resources as such action would be met with firm action.
Governor Nwifuru made the threat during the flag-off of Health Activation Programme in readiness for the Drug Revolving Fund (DFR) and Distribution of Medical Equipment to the 13 General Hospitals in the state held at Akanu Ibiam International Conference Centre Abakaliki.
He stated that the state government had already shown that it would not condone negligence adding that the state government also has a vision of establishing a specialist hospital in each of the three senatorial zones to provide advanced healthcare services, reduce medical tourism, and save lives.
He noted that the medical equipment is worth over one billion naira and added that the distribution marks a significant milestone in the journey to reposition Ebonyi’s health sector.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party’s Peter Obi, and former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai have reportedly concluded months of negotiations aimed at forging a united opposition front to challenge President Bola Tinubu in the next general election in 2027.
According to sources familiar with the matter, the three opposition heavyweights reached a consensus on Tuesday to consolidate efforts under a single political platform, although the agreement has not been officially announced.
The alliance marks a mending of political fences between the former rivals, whose division before the 2023 presidential election was widely viewed as a major contributor to President Tinubu’s victory. Collectively, Atiku and Obi secured significantly more votes than Tinubu’s 8.7 million, indicating that a united opposition could present a formidable challenge in the 2027 race.
The deal will see them rally under the African Democratic Congress (ADC), a lesser-known party, Bloomberg reported on Wednesday.
The development coincides with a recent remark by the Chairman of ADC’s Board of Trustees, BoT, Mani Ahmed, who said a deal is close.
“I can categorically inform you that the African Democratic Congress is the coalition party in Nigeria. What remains is merely dotting the i’s and crossing the t’s,” he said at a press conference.
Spokespersons for both the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Labour Party acknowledged their candidates’ involvement in coalition talks but clarified that there are no ongoing discussions to merge the parties themselves. The Social Democratic Party (SDP), with which El-Rufai is a member, did not offer comment.
A major challenge for the new alliance is deciding who will run for president. Nigeria’s informal tradition of rotating power between the North and South complicate things, as Atiku, a northerner, may struggle to gain from southern voters who strongly backed Obi, a leading figure from the South-East in 2023.
The opposition is plagued with internal divisions. The PDP, to which Atiku currently belongs, is currently locked in a three-way leadership tussle involving Atiku’s camp, ers of Nyesom Wike—now a minister in Tinubu’s cabinet—and a bloc loyal to Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed.
On the other hand, the Labour Party faces its own internal crisis. Party chairman Julius Abure has clashed with Peter Obi over control of the party, leading to the suspension of several of Obi’s allies and weakening the party.
Meanwhile, President Tinubu’s policies have drawn heavy criticism as Nigerians grapple with rising prices, a weaker naira, and a worsening cost-of-living crisis. His decision to remove fuel subsidies and merge exchange rates, allegedly without clear plans to ease the impact, has pushed millions deeper into hardship. These economic struggles have strengthened the opposition’s determination to remove the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 election.
The 2023 Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has responded to speculation that he may serve as running mate to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar in the 2027 presidential election.
Speaking during a public event in Kubwa, Abuja, where he donated to a school and hospital project run by the Anglican Church, Obi addressed the claims though indirectly.
“You can make of the report what you want, but I’m in a coalition against bad governance, hunger, and poverty,” he stated.
His remarks follow media reports earlier in the day suggesting that Atiku had proposed a power-sharing deal in which Obi would serve as vice president in a t ticket. The report also claimed Atiku had offered to serve only one term and was open to formalizing the agreement in writing.
The alleged offer reportedly came during a private meeting between both men in the United Kingdom earlier this year. It was also reported that sources close to the discussions, who requested anonymity, claimed that Obi was open to the idea but wanted to consult his core ers before making a public move.
How Tinubu’s Son, Seyi, Was Blocked from Greeting Pope Leo XIV in Rome [VIDEO]
Seyi Tinubu, son of Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, was on Sunday in Rome stopped from greeting the newly elected Pope Leo XIV during his inauguration event.
The incident happened during a special mass at the Vatican, held to mark the beginning of the Pontificate of His Holiness Pope Leo XIV, the 267th Bishop of Rome and head of the Roman Catholic Church.
President Tinubu was among the invited world leaders at the ceremony.
As the Nigerian president was led forward by two senior Catholic clerics to meet the Pope, Seyi Tinubu followed closely behind. However, a Vatican protocol officer stepped in and politely blocked him from moving closer to the Pope.
While President Tinubu exchanged greetings with the pontiff, his son was directed away, unable to shake hands or interact directly with the Pope.
Since his father assumed office, Seyi Tinubu has often been seen travelling with him on official trips. However, critics have raised questions about his presence at high-level events where he holds no official government role.
Obi Offered VP Slot as Atiku Agrees to One-Term Deal for 2027 | #Politicsnigeria
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has reportedly offered the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, the position of vice president in a one-term power-sharing agreement ahead of the 2027 elections.
Multiple sources involved in the coalition talks, who asked not to be named, revealed that the proposal was first made during a private meeting between Atiku and Obi earlier this year in the United Kingdom.
According to the sources, Atiku has committed to serving only one term if elected president and Obi has accepted the offer to run as his deputy. However, Obi is said to be consulting with his key ers before making any public statement.
This development marks a potential political reunion. It can be recalled that Obi was Atiku’s running mate under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2019 elections, where they lost to the then incumbent, Muhammadu Buhari of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
It is understood that both camps are considering a different political party given that both the PDP and Labour Party are immersed in crises. One such option is the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
“The Social Democratic Party was part of the plans before now, but it seems the ruling APC has also infiltrated the party. So, they are tilting towards the ADC. Some of the loyalists have been meeting with the ADC leadership, and others have quietly ed the party. So, if things do not favour them in LP and PDP, they may ADC,” a source said.
In March, Atiku, Obi, former Kaduna governor Nasir El-Rufai, and others announced a new political coalition aimed at challenging President Bola Tinubu’s reelection in 2027. However, there has been no clear announcement on the proposed coalition till today.
One political insider said consultations are still ongoing.
“You know that by this time next year, by May 2026, almost all parties would have unveiled their presidential candidates for the 2027 elections. So, the coalition move is mindful of that.
The leaders have all agreed that it’s only a coalition between Atiku, Obi, and others that can wrest power from Tinubu. So, they are crossing the T’s and dotting the I’s to finalise this.”
The source added that the UK meeting was key to the plan.
“Atiku and Obi met earlier this year in the UK. That was where Atiku first mooted the idea of a coalition and urged Obi to be his running mate. Obi then asked for time to think it over and consult his loyalists.
But recent developments show that Obi has accepted to be Atiku’s running mate, and Atiku has also agreed to serve a single four-year term and hand over to the former Anambra State governor. They have both agreed to sign a written agreement if necessary.”
Atiku’s spokesperson, Paul Ibe, confirmed coalition talks but declined to speak on any specific agreement.
“I know that His Excellency, Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi have been talking about the coalition. I cannot speak on the specific agreement they have reached.
All I can tell you is that both of them are focused on ensuring that they build a viable coalition that will be robust enough to accommodate diverse Nigerians to unseat the clueless APC government in 2027.”
Peter Ahmeh, a close associate of Obi and secretary of the Coalition of United Political Parties, refused to confirm any deal but said Obi remains committed to Labour Party unity.
“No comment on this one, until I speak with my oga,” he said.
He added, “We are in the LP as we speak, and that is the option available to accommodate everyone because you cannot sleep in a hostile environment and expect to succeed.”
Meanwhile, Yunusa Tanko, National Coordinator of the Obedient Movement, denied knowledge of any Atiku-Obi t ticket.
“As far as I am concerned, after I met with him in Benin, there was nothing of this nature on the table. He has not shared with me any of this particular issue. Neither has he called nor talked to me about it.”
ADC National Chairman Ralph Nwosu confirmed that talks are ongoing with major stakeholders, including opposition leaders and even some within the ruling APC.
“The ADC leadership has held conversations with all major stakeholders in the coalition drive and even people in government — that is, even people in the APC,” he said.
He revealed that 21 former national chairmen of deed parties have ed ADC and hinted at a major announcement soon.
“Currently, we are involved in coalition talks with all critical stakeholders. And we are meeting frequently, and by the grace of God, before the end of this week, we will announce some of the recent developments to the entire world".
I’ll Expose Them – Labour Party Chairman Abure Hits at Obi, Others | #Politicsnigeria
National Chairman of the Labour Party, Julius Abure, has fired back at critics within the party, including 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi and Governor Alex Otti of Abia State, over recent allegations of corruption and mismanagement.
Speaking on Tuesday in Abuja, Abure challenged his opponents to prove they gave him or the party any money during the 2023 elections. He denied ever receiving funds for personal use and warned that if provoked further, he would reveal damaging details about them.
“I want to challenge all of them. I saw some of them on television talking about corruption. Let any of them from Peter Obi down come forward and publicly declare what they personally gave to me or the party,” he said.
“Who brought the money? Who was it given to? Where was it sent? I challenge them today to come out boldly with or without evidence and say it. Otherwise, let them forever remain silent.”
Abure said he had kept silent until now in the interest of peace within the party. But he declared that the time for silence was over.
“As a leader, I kept quiet thinking they were making mistakes and would eventually come around.
“When issues about election agents and funds came up, I said nothing because I believed I should accept the good, the bad, and the ugly within our fold.
“But now that some have crossed the line, I have no choice. If they provoke me further, I will reveal everything. When I open my mouth, they will stink like rotten eggs no one wants to touch.”
He also announced plans to hold a world press conference to address the growing internal crisis in the party.
Turning to Governor Alex Otti, Abure accused him of not contributing financially to the party during the elections.
“That governor who is jumping like a cricket from one point to another, we did not collect a dime from him. If he gave money to anyone, let him come forward and say so,” he said.
“When we met at Transcorp, he asked me, ‘Chairman, what do I do for you?’ I told him, ‘Nothing. Use your money for your campaign.’”
A former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, has narrated how he worked with the ex-governor of Jigawa State, Sule Lamido, to work against the second-term ambition of Goodluck Jonathan.
Speaking at the book launch by Lamido, the former Rivers State governor said there were quite a number of times when they both disagreed on political issues.
According to Amaechi, at the beginning of his friendship with Lamido, he (Amaechi) had thought that the former Jigawa governor was as radical as he is.
Both Amaechi and Lamido were in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) before the buildup of the 2015 general election.
Amaechi, however, left the PDP for the All Progressives Congress (APC), which later won the presidential poll with Muhammadu Buhari as its candidate.
Highlighting some of the incidents that took place at that time, Amaechi said, “We had our bad times that we disagreed, I made the mistake of assuming that he was as radical as I was, so he was one of the governors I clung to when it came to radical decisions.”
He further stated that one of the incidents that severed their political relationship was when they planned to work against Jonathan during the 2015 poll.
“And I will tell you one of the reasons, there were several things that happened in the course of our friendship. The last one before we broke ranks was that we agreed, all of us agreed to go against President Goodluck Jonathan.
“And we formed a committee, governors and all that. At the end of the day, he (Lamido) was to find a new party called the SDP.
“We said if we go to the new party, we would lose elections,” Amaechi stated.
Young Man Arrested In Abakaliki While Having Sex With Mad Woman (Photos)
By Wisdom Nwedene, Abakaliki
A middle aged man has been apprehended by villagers after he was allegedly caught having sex with a mad woman at Ugwuachara in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State.
9NEWS NIGERIA gathered that the ugly incident happened in a broad day light towards Sunday evening.
According to an eyewitness, Emeka John who spoke to 9NEWS NIGERIA , the man has been engaging in the act for a long time.
"Every evening, the guy will here and the mad woman will follow him. So, we began investigation and followed him today."
"Only for us to see him on of the mad woman having sex with her. When try to separate them, the mad became aggressive towards."
"We will hand him over to security operatives to do their job", he said.
As at the time of filing this report, efforts to get the reactions of Ebonyi State Police Command proved abortive.
Saraki reacts as PDP sets up new committee ahead of party’s convention
On Sunday, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) set up a committee to ensure a hitch-free National Executive Council meeting and National Convention.
The seven-member committee was set up by the party during an emergency meeting of governors and past governors in Abuja on Sunday.
The committee, headed by the former Senate President, Bukola Saraki, has been saddled with the responsibility of ensuring that the NEC meeting scheduled to take place on May 27 is free of every form of rancour.
Reacting to the development, Saraki said deliberations at the emergency meeting were fruitful.
He also noted that the PDP governors, both past and present, deliberated on the party’s challenges and possible solutions.
According to Sataki, the committee was set up as a means to chart a new path for the PDP.
“The committee is headed by my humble self, and I will have the pleasure of working with my brothers – HE Dauda Lawal, HE Caleb Muftwang, and HE Peter Mba, governors of Zamfara, Plateau and Enugu States, respectively.
“Other are Sen. Seriake Dickson, Sen. Ibrahim Dankwambo, and former governor of Abia State, HE, Chief Okezie Ikpeazu,” Saraki wrote on X.
He also assured his total commitment to delivering on the task handed to him and to other of the committee.
“We hope to do our best in delivering on the assignment given to us,” he added.
The Kano State Government has placed a ban on all live political programmes across radio, television, and other media platforms.
Announcing the decision at a quarterly meeting with media executives, Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, said the move aims to prevent the spread of harmful content and preserve the state’s cultural and religious values.
A statement from the ministry, signed by the Director of Special Duties, Sani Abba Yola, explained the reason for the action.
The statement said the ban “is not to suppress political opposition but rather to safeguard the sanctity of Kano’s cultural and religious values.”
As part of the new rules, anyone appearing on political programmes must now sign a form promising not to make any abusive, false, or culturally offensive comments.
Media presenters were also warned not to ask questions or make gestures that could lead to such comments.
The Commissioner praised media houses for their cooperation so far, saying there has been a noticeable drop in unethical content since past efforts began.
He added that the government is still running awareness campaigns for political programme hosts, media analysts, and religious leaders like Imams, to promote peaceful and respectful communication.
PDP, LP Shun Event as APC, APGA Jostle to Host President Tinubu Amid Ban on Party Colours
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s visit to Anambra State has led to political competition between the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), as both parties made efforts to take credit for hosting the President.
The visit, which is part of a one-day working tour, is focused on commissioning key infrastructure projects and meeting selected stakeholders. However, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and the Labour Party (LP) stayed away from the event.
In a statement ahead of the visit, the Special Adviser to Governor Chukwuma Soludo on Political Affairs, Alex Obiogbolu, announced a ban on the wearing of party uniforms and group attire. He directed APGA and over 130 Soludo Groups not to wear clothes that show political identity.
Obiogbolu said the visit “is not a political event” but an official state function, and called for full cooperation from all groups.
Reacting to the development, APC Chairman in Anambra State, Basil Ejidike, said his party welcomed the President but refused to comment on the uniform ban.
“As a party that produced the President, we wish him a successful and hitch-free visit to Anambra,” he said.
So far, no groups have been seen wearing political party regalia. Only the official green-and-white clothing, usually worn for presidential ceremonies, was used during preparations.
The PDP, meanwhile, made it clear that it would not take part in the event. PDP State Chairman, Chidi Chidebe, said the party respects the President’s right to visit any part of the country, but added that his party is focused on delivering real change to citizens.
At the Labour Party secretariat in Awka, no officials were available to speak. But a member of the party, who asked not to be named, said,
“How do you expect us to welcome a man whose victory in the last general election remains disputed? Doing so would mean legitimizing what we believe is illegitimate. Our party has no interest in that.”
This is President Tinubu’s second visit to the South East in 2025, following his earlier trip to Enugu State.
The Federal High Court in Lagos has directed Dangote Petroleum Refinery & Petrochemicals FZE to release the detained vessel MT Stena Sunshine after accepting a financial guarantee from its owners.
Justice Akintayo Aluko issued the interim ruling following a legal challenge by the vessel’s owners, who accused the refinery of unlawfully detaining the ship. The court mandated that the vessel be freed upon submission of a $300,000 Letter of Undertaking (LoU) from GARD Protection & Indemnity Club, securing any verified claims by Dangote.
However, the judge declined the owners’ request for an injunction to prevent the refinery and its agents from further harassment or interference, stating that such matters would be addressed in the substantive hearing.
Case Background
The dispute stems from an incident on March 14, 2025, which led to the vessel’s detention. The owners, in a lawsuit (*FHC/L/CS/639/2025*), sought immediate release, arguing that the refinery had no legal basis to hold the ship.
Dangote Refinery, alongside Capt. Shivkumar Sherkhane and Rana Satendra, opposed the motion, filing an 11-paragraph counter-affidavit.
Court’s Decision Justice Aluko ruled that while the request for protection from harassment could not be granted at this stage, the demand for the vessel’s release was justified. The court ordered:
Refusal of the harassment injunction (to be revisited in the main suit).
Approval of the vessel’s release upon filing the $300,000 LoU.
Formal submission of the guarantee to the court.
The case has been adjourned to May 27, 2025, for further hearing.
Poverty Is Not a Crime – Senate President Akpabio Tells Nigerians from Rome | #Politicsnigeria
Senate President Godswill Akpabio has told Nigerians that poverty is not a crime.
He made the comment in Rome after attending the funeral of Pope Francis last Saturday at the Vatican. Akpabio led a five-member federal government delegation to the event.
Speaking in an interview with the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) via Zoom, Akpabio said:
“When you look at the Catholic Church, the Catholic Church is not just a church. The Vatican is also regarded as a state. So you have the head of state that died and was buried today. You also have the country that headed this flock all over the world, well over 1.5 billion in number.
“And you have a man who died as a man today, the Pope, who was worth only $100, showing that yes, we cannot worship God in splendour and that the best way to worship God is to worship God through self-sacrifice for others.
“So the message is very clear that Nigerians should love one another and that poverty is not a crime and that poverty could sometimes be a virtue, a virtue of God and that whatever you have you should be able to share with your brothers and sisters and above all in this period of Easter.”
"Girlfriend" Allegedly Poisons Boyfriend, Stepson To Death In Abakaliki (Photos)
By Wisdom Nwedene, Abakaliki
A middle aged man identified as "Uncle Light" and his son identified as Miracle have allegedly died of food poisoning after Ebebe Junction in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State.
Our correspondent gathered that the man moved in with the woman after she allegedly divorced her husband last year.
When our correspondent visited the scene of the ugly incident, he saw the two bodies lying down unconsciously.
According to a resident of the area who spoke with our correspondent on the condition of anonymity said they are suspecting a case of food poisoning.
"Since the incident happened, we haven't seen the woman. She left early in the morning with her baby while abandoning these ones here. We don't know what they ate that made them to start vomiting."
"The man is lying inside n@ked while you can see the son lying down at gate. We need help for the them to be evacuated to the hospital before they will start smelling".
When our correspondent ed the Police Public Relations, Ebonyi State Command, Mr Joshua Ukandu, he said he is not aware of the incident and promised to mobilize his men to the area to ascertain what happened.
Our correspondent, however, waited for an hour before the Police finally arrived at the scene of the incident with a man who claimed to be the brother of woman alleged to have poisoned the man.
He, however, claimed that his sister is also sick and being treated though she is already in Police custody.
Another resident of the area who spoke with our correspondent also on the condition of anonymity said he heard a loud voice at the middle of the night.
"I heard a loud voice at the middle of the night and I told my wife that something is happening in our neighbourhood".
" At a point, we thought that's it's church people doing their program that are making the noise. It is early this morning that we saw the son struggling and wrangling in pain and came outside the gate."
"He was crying for water. A friend provided him with water before he suddenly died. We are suspecting Diarrhoea but it's for autopsy to confirm what killed him".
As at the time of filing this report, the two bodies have been evacuated by the police.
N28b Fraud: Court Orders EFCC Seizure of Ikpeazu's Aide Uchenna Erondu's N1.2bn Assets Over Diversion of Abia Funds | #IgbereTV
The Federal High Court in Abuja on Thursday, ordered an interim forfeiture of three property linked to an Abia House of Assembly Member and Aide to former Governor of Abia State, Mr Erondu Erondu, to the Federal Government over alleged money laundering to the tune of N28 billion.
Justice Emeka Nwite gave the order after the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC)’s lawyer, C.O. Onu, moved a motion ex-parte to the effect.
The judge ordered that the notice be published on Daily Trust Newspaper and EFCC Website for interested person(s) to show cause within 14 days of the date of publication why the assets should not be permanently forfeited to the Federal Government.
“I have listened to the submission of the learner counsel for the applicant (EFCC).
“I have also gone through the affidavit evidence with the exhibits thereto along with the written address.
“I am of the view and I so hold that the application is meritorious.
“Consequently, the application is granted as prayed,” Justice Nwite said, and adjourned the matter until May 26 for report of compliance.
The property include a four-bedroom bungalow at Plot 6/31, Ukaegbu Layout, Umuahia North LGA, Abia valued at N409 million; and a three-bedroom bungalow at same address as above and valued at N300 million.
The other property is a five-bedroom bungalow at Guzape in Abuja valued at N500 million.
Erondu currently serves as lawmaker representing Obingwa West Constituency of Abia State House of Assembly.
The anti-graft agency had, in the motion ex-parte dated April 10 and filed April 16, sought two orders.
The commission prayed the court for an order that the property set out in the schedule be seized in the interim to the Federal Government pending the conclusion of investigation and possible prosecution.
The commission said the allegations were in connection with a case of economic and financial crimes, alleged case of criminal conspiracy, illegal transfer of funds, abuse of office, diversion of public funds, and money laundering to the tune of over N28 billion.
In the affidavit attached to the motion and deposed to by an EFCC staff, Samson Oloje, the officer averred that the commission was in receipt of an alleged case of fraud
He said the case bordered on “criminal conspiracy, abuse of office, diversion of public funds and money . Laundering to the tune of over N28 billion initiated through an intelligence report source to the applicant’s organisation.”
“That the assets and properties in the schedule of this application are being investigated for being linked to economic and financial crimes, proceeds of crimes, abuse of office, diversion of public funds, illegal transfer of funds, criminal conspiracy, impersonation and money laundering via an open source intelligence report.
“That herein attached are the statements of the person involved in the dealings and transactions connected to this case hereby attached as Exhibit EFCC-1.”
Oloje said it would be in the interest of justice for the application to be granted “in order to preserve the res pending the conclusion of investigation for whosoever concerned to show cause why the aforementioned assets and properties should not be forfeited to the Federal Government.”
“We Expect More To Follow” – Pro-Atiku Group Reacts To Delta governor’s Defection | #Politicsnigeria
The 2027 National Coalition, led by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, has declared that it will not be derailed by the recent wave of defections of governors and opposition leaders into the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
In the wake of Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s defection to the APC, along with other political figures, the coalition stated that its mission to offer Nigerians a credible political alternative remains on course.
Speaking on behalf of the coalition, Malam Salihu Moh Lukman, a secretariat leader and former Director General of the Progressive Governors’ Forum (PGF), stated that the defections were anticipated and would not distract the movement’s momentum.
He said: “We have gone far, and what has happened in of some governors and leaders moving into APC is not going to distract us at all.
“The full details of the coalition will soon be unveiled to Nigerians, including our structure and strategy for the 2027 elections.”
Lukman affirmed that more defections were likely, pointing out that the signs had been evident for some time.
“Anybody who says this wasn’t expected is only deceiving himself. The signals have been there. It’s not just one governor—we expect more to follow,” he noted.
He also criticized the state of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), describing it as “a shadow of its former self,” while acknowledging that some within the party are still working hard to revive it.
However, he alleged that several PDP governors were covertly ing President Bola Tinubu’s istration, further undermining the opposition.
“When the governors issued a statement against the coalition, we said some of them were working for Asiwaju [Tinubu]. Shortly after, you saw statements from Akwa Ibom’s governor, and now Delta’s governor. More are coming,” Lukman added.
Speaking on the coalition’s long-term vision, he said their goal was not merely to defeat the APC but to fundamentally transform Nigeria’s leadership culture.
He said: “This is not about just removing Asiwaju or defeating APC. It’s about correcting the mistakes of both the Buhari and Tinubu istrations and restoring the national vision.
“We want to produce leaders that Nigerians can truly be proud of—leaders who are able, not emperors.”
He stressed that the new political platform being formed would be selective and principled, accepting individuals based on their past conduct and commitment to national development.
“We are not blind to the character of politicians. Anyone ing us will be assessed based on their trajectory. This is about rescuing Nigeria, not recycling the same failures,” he said.
Lukman concluded by reiterating that the coalition’s ultimate objective is to build a united and inclusive Nigeria, governed by able leaders.
“We don’t want a sectional government. We want a leadership that places the country above personal gain. What we are doing is negotiating a coalition to produce a truly united Nigeria—and a government that every Nigerian can trust,” he said.
The Sole of Rivers State, Vice iral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.), is expected to appear before the House of Representatives Committee overseeing the state’s emergency istration today, following his absence from Thursday’s scheduled session.
Vice iral Ibas had been summoned to provide updates and clarifications on the istration of Rivers State under emergency rule.
Thursday’s session, which was held behind closed doors and lasted approximately 50 minutes, it was learnt proceeded without him.
The chairman of the committee, Prof. Julius Ihonvbere, declined to speak with journalists after the meeting, and other of the committee similarly avoided press inquiries.
Attendees at the meeting included key legislative figures such as the Deputy Chief Whip, Hon. Ali Isah, and chairpersons of various House committees—among them Federal Character, Finance, Water Resources, and Health Services.
Though no official explanation was provided for iral Ibas’s no-show, a source has revealed that he is now scheduled to meet with the committee today, Friday, April 25, 2025, at 10 a.m., within the National Assembly Complex.
His absence may be linked to his participation in the National Economic Council meeting presided over by Vice President Kashim Shettima, which took place on the same day.
Vice iral Ibas was appointed as Sole in March following the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and other elected officials in an emergency rule setting in the state.
Shimite Winifred Bello, an aide to the Governor of Delta State, Sheriff Oborevwori on Trade and Export is dead.
Reports said Bello died on Monday as a result of alleged domestic violence.
While details of the incident remain sketchy, her death was confirmed by another aide to the governor and human rights activist, Harrison Gwamnishu.
Gwamnishu in a post on Facebook on Monday, April 21, mourned his colleague’s ing.
In a different post, a human rights activist, Victor Ojie wrote, “Marriage is not by force oh. It’s better to lose your marriage than to lose your life oh.”
Another of the social media platform, Oge Okonkwo said that Bello’s husband has been arrested by the police following her ing.
The aide to the late Bello, Tameta Sunday said she was killed by her husband.
Sunday wrote in a post, “It’s very difficult to type RIP boss, knowing fully well an ugly soul called pastor with a gentle look as a husband cut all the positive plans we had together.”
The Federal High Court sitting in Port Harcourt has struck out a suit challenging the defection of 27 of the Rivers State House of Assembly.
The case, instituted by the Labour Party, sought to have the lawmakers’ seats declared vacant over alleged defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The presiding judge, Justice Emmanuel A. Obile, delivered the ruling on Tuesday.
Martins Nwachukwu, an aide to Speaker Martins Amaewhule—one of the principal defendants in the matter, confirmed the court’s decision via a social media post.
Counsel for the defendants had urged the court to dismiss the suit, citing a recent Supreme Court judgment. They presented a Certified True Copy of the apex court’s decision, which the defendants said reaffirmed the leadership of the Assembly under Amaewhule and noted that Governor Siminalayi Fubara had withdrawn the allegations of defection in a separate case at the Federal High Court in Abuja.
Labour Party counsel, Clifford Chukwu, however, argued that the issue of defection remained a “collateral matter” and urged the court to proceed with the case, referencing the body of evidence already before it.
BREAKING: I Can No Longer Guarantee the Safety of Unscheduled Visitors to the State – APC Governor | #Politicsnigeria
Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has warned individuals or groups planning to visit the state without prior notice, stating that such visits are at the risk of the visitors, as their safety can no longer be guaranteed.
The governor’s position was made public on Monday through a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, titled “Notice Regarding Unscheduled Visit to Benue State.”
In the statement, Governor Alia, a member of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), emphasized the need for proper communication and clearance before any visit to sensitive locations within the state, especially camps for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs).
“The Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, wishes to inform the public that he is not expecting any August visitor to the state today,” the statement read. “He is currently engaged in high-profile meetings with key state actors to discuss critical issues affecting our state.”
“For anyone considering a visit to Benue State without the Governor’s knowledge, it is imperative to reconsider such plans, as the safety and security of individuals in this regard cannot be guaranteed,” he warned.
Alia further directed that all individuals or organizations intending to engage with IDPs in the state must first obtain clearance from the Benue State Emergency Management Agency (BSEMA).
“Also the public is to note that all individuals or groups intending to visit IDPs in Benue State must first seek and obtain written permission from Benue State Emergency Management Agency, BSEMA.
“We urge security agents and the public to take note of this announcement and maintain peace and order in the state.”
The governor’s remarks come amid rising security concerns across several parts of Benue. He had earlier announced plans to convene a state-wide security summit aimed at addressing the escalating violence in some local government areas.
Presidency opens up on Tinubu’s ‘Medical Trip’ to , reveals date of return
Presidential aide Daniel Bwala has dismissed social media rumors claiming President Bola Tinubu traveled to for medical treatment, clarifying that the trip is strictly a working visit.
Bwala, speaking on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, criticized unverified online reports, stating that anonymous claims should not be taken seriously.
“Sometimes on social media, someone will tweet something—you don’t even know who the person is. It could be someone with mental health issues,” he said. “The president did not go to see a doctor; he’s on a working visit, and we’ve been publishing his activities.”
President Tinubu departed Nigeria on April 2 for Paris, where he is expected to review his istration’s reforms and strategize ahead of his government’s second anniversary, according to presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga.
A video shared by the Presidency showed Tinubu boarding the presidential aircraft after exchanging farewells with top officials.
Onanuga confirmed that the president is scheduled to return to Nigeria by April 16.
Orji Uzor Kalu, senator representing Abia north, says the consensus of the southeast geopolitical zone ahead of 2027 is to President Bola Tinubu’s second-term ambition.
Kalu, a former governor of Abia, spoke in Abuja at the end of the Abia APC stakeholders’ meeting held at his residence over the weekend.
He said of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abia have resolved to put aside their differences and work together to deliver Tinubu and take over the state government currently led by Alex Otti of the Labour Party (LP).
Those present at the meeting included Donatus Nwankpa, APC national welfare secretary; Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, minister of state for labour and employment; Obinna Oriaku, former commissioner for finance; Ndukwe Adindu; Sam Ikiri; Mike Nwabara; Anyim Nyerere; Nze Esiaga; Chidi Maduekwe; Ndukwe Maxwell; Nnanna Kalu; and Emeka Atuma.
Speaking to journalists, Kalu said the president had directed party leaders to reconcile and strengthen the APC in their various states.
His words: “We are more united now than ever because President Tinubu during the last APC NEC meeting gave us directive to go and reconcile of the party in our states.
“He knows that we are capable of doing it and we will be very grateful to the people of our constituencies and the masses to us in uniting the party.
“They stand to benefit more by enjoying the federal might. They can see what is happening in Abia north senatorial district concerning federal government’s interventions and I am very thankful to former President Buhari and the incumbent President Tinubu.
“This is what the three senatorial districts will enjoy when they the APC.
He said Tinubu had expressed concern about the political situation in Abia and urged leaders to reunite the party.
He said: “The last time I went to see President Tinubu, he was not very happy about the situation in Abia and I gave him my words that we are going to work hard to bring back Abia as a united indivisible entity.
“The president knows that we the leaders of Abia are capable of doing that. We are going to do that and we are calling and promising all the leaders that nobody will be left behind.
“We are in government and everybody must roll with us because anybody who does might regret his action.
“It is better they identify with the peace initiative and I believe that we will achieve our desire because the most important thing is for the party to be very strong and to speak very loudly during elections.”
Kalu said he has always enjoyed the confidence of the people, adding that his track record as governor and senator speaks for itself.
His words: “I was a very good governor, they also know that I am a very good senator and that I have never deceived the people of Abia state.
“I am committed to whatever we want to do and whoever we present as candidate for elections from the House of Assembly to the president, they will know that they will be credible.”
Kalu said the south-east zone has resolved to align with Tinubu for 2027, adding that efforts are ongoing to mobilise across the region.
He said: “My goodwill message to the people of Abia is that we have a president that has done first term and will be going for second term.
“If he is doing second term, Abia needs to also align to the centre because we cannot afford to be speaking differently.”
“The consensus of the south-east over 2027 is that the zone will do very well in ing President Tinubu and I challenge them to mark my words.
“I have been working and I am on ground. when Mr President visited Enugu, I was not there physically but I have his permission to visit all the governors in the south-east and beyond and I am doing that.
“We are working and not resting. The president knows that there are few planners behind him and when we plan we execute the plan.
“The class of 1999 governors are made up of very tough people and a very good class.”
The governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodimma has said that President Bola Tinubu is what Nigeria needs to attain her desired growth.
Speaking in Lagos over the weekend, the governor and Chairman of the Progressives Governors’s Forum said Tinubu is performing and going beyond the expectations of Nigerians with his policies and style of governance.Nigerian political art prints
The governor said, “President Tinubu is performing. He is living to expectation. You don’t change the winning team.”
Describing Tinubu as a person who has a national outlook on almost every issue, Uzodimma said Nigerians are lucky to have someone like the president at the helm of affairs.Nigerian political art prints
He added that Tinubu has shown that he is a visionary leader with the right knowledge and courage to steer the affairs of the nation.
According to Uzodimma, through Tinubu’s economic reforms, the government at the national level has blocked leakages and loopholes that have in turn impacted the government at the sub-national level positively.
Citing some instances, Uzodimma said the monthly N12 billion allocation to Imo State from the federation has enabled the state to embark on massive development projects.
Gregory University Uturu Condemns Brutal K!lling Of Expatriates And Police Officer | #IgbereTV
The Management of Gregory University Uturu is deeply saddened by the brutal murder of two Chinese expatriates and one policeman in Amaya Ndundu autonomous community, Isuikwuato LGA, Abia State.
In a statement made available to IGBERE TV by Sleek Ogwo, Deputy Registrar, Communication
Gregory University Uturu strongly condemned the heinous act and urged security agencies to thoroughly investigate the crime, apprehend the perpetrators, and bring them to justice.
According to the statement "Addressing concerns about the safety of our students and staff, we assure the public, particularly parents and guardians, that the security of our university community remains our top priority. Given the significant distance between Ndundu and our location in Amaokwe Achara, Uturu, where the university is situated on a 100-hectare site, we are confident in the safety of our students and staff. Nevertheless, we continue to collaborate with relevant security agencies to ensure the security and well-being of the university community."
"We appeal to everyone to remain calm and the authorities in their efforts to bring the perpetrators to justice. This incident highlights the need for vigilance and cooperation between communities and security agencies to prevent such tragedies."
"Management extends heartfelt condolences to the Consulate and Officials of the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria, the Inspector General of Police, Officers and Men of the Nigeria Police Force, and the families of the victims."
Atiku, El-Rufai, Tambuwal Visit Former President, Buhari | #Politicsnigeria
Atiku Abubakar, a former vice president of Nigeria on Friday, April 11, visited the immediate past president of Nigeria, Muhammadu Buhari at his residence in Kaduna.
In a video shared by the 2023 presidential candidate for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on X, Atiku said he paid a post-Sallah visit to Buhari.
The video also captured other leaders including the former governors of Sokoto and Kaduna States, Aminu Tambuwal and Nasir El-Rufai.
It is, however, not clear whether the former vice president visited the home of Buhari in the company of the other politicians.
In his post, Atiku said the former President in his usual manner cracked them up with jokes during their time with him.
He wrote, “As the Waziri Adamawa, I was obligated to be in my Adamawa during the Sallah celebrations. I held forth for the Lamido Fombina (Adamawa) in some of the activities of the Sallah celebrations.
“Today, I had the opportunity to pay a post-Sallah visit to His Excellency, Muhammadu Buhari, President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 2015-2023.
“It was a wonderful time with him. As usual, he cracked me up (to the extent that my ribs were hurting) with his peculiar humour,” Atiku stated.
Nigerian environmentalist and human rights activist, Annkio Briggs has accused Rivers State Sole , Vice iral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retired) of bias in handling the political affairs of the state.
Briggs while speaking on Arise Television’s Prime Times Show said there are serious concerns brewing among indigenes and residents of Rivers State following that actions taken by Ibas.
Briggs allegations against the state’s sole comes shortly after he (Ibas) appointed s for the 23 Local Government Areas of the state.
According to the activist, the recent appointments announced by Ibas could lead to a political turmoil among the people of Rivers State and stakeholders in the state.
She said, “There’s serious concern, I can take the responsibility for that and say it to you, as a Rivers daughter, that there’s serious concern because this is the sort of thing that will explode. You will not be able to control it.”
Annikio-Briggs said she was in a meeting in Abuja when her phone kept ringing and she also received series of messages following the recent appointment of s for the 23 Local Government Areas in Rivers State by Ibas.
While expressing her shock over the recent appointments she said, “He has no such right constitutionally, the constitution does not give him those rights.
“I do not believe that President asked him that when you get to Rivers State, dismantle what you find there and agitate the people of Rivers State.
“He is not neutral, he is working a script, he is playing out a script and we all know what script he is playing out – the script of Nyesom Wike. Because the people that are being removed right now as I speak to you are the people that Fubara put there; the people that he Ibas is bringing in are majorly Wike’s people. It is a disaster,” Briggs noted.
Policeman Slumps, Dies At Viewing Centre After Arsenal Defeated Real Madrid | #Politicsnigeria
An Inspector of Police, Stephen Enang, slumped and died shortly after watching Arsenal’s emphatic 3–0 win over Real Madrid on Tuesday night in Calabar, the Cross River state capital.
The late Enang, a native of Ekori in Yakurr Local Government Area of the state, was attached to the Akim Police Division along IBB Way.
According to a close friend, who spoke on condition of anonymity, Enang had been elated during the match, celebrating each Arsenal goal with great excitement at a viewing centre on Abang-Asang Street.
The friend said: “He was in great spirits—healthy, happy, cheering every goal. Arsenal scored the first, second, and third goals, and he was overjoyed.
“But after the final whistle, when everyone started leaving, we noticed Stephen wasn’t getting up like the rest of us. That’s when we realised something was wrong.”
He said the police man had slumped on the seat and was unresponsive.
According to him, despite being rushed to the Police Hospital in Akim, efforts to revive him were unsuccessful and he was later pronounced dead.
Kosiso12(f): 11:23am On May 22