The Jigawa State Executive Council, led by His Excellency Malam Umar A. Namadi, FCA, has officially approved a supplementary budget worth ₦85 billion for the 2025 fiscal year. This major decision was revealed by the State Commissioner of Information, Youth, Sports, and Culture, Hon. Sagir Musa Ahmad, during a media briefing after the council meeting held on Tuesday. According to the commissioner, the supplementary appropriation was endorsed to strengthen both the state government and the 27 Local Government Councils. The move reflects a strategic approach to respond to pressing financial demands and ensure that critical sectors receive adequate funding. Breakdown of the Supplementary Budget Hon. Sagir explained that the ₦85 billion supplementary budget was divided as follows: These funds cover both recurrent and capital expenditures, highlighting the government’s commitment to balanced spending across all levels. Purpose of the Budget Approval The commissioner emphasized that the supplementary budget was necessitated by additional revenue inflows. The extra funds will be directed toward tackling urgent state challenges while accelerating sustainable development initiatives. He stressed that the new allocation is designed to support ongoing and new projects in vital areas, including: Next Steps in the Process Hon. Sagir Musa Ahmad further disclosed that the supplementary budget proposal will be formally presented to the Jigawa State House of Assembly for legislative debate, scrutiny, and approval. This step ensures compliance with constitutional provisions and established budgetary processes. The approval of the supplementary budget underscores the administration’s determination to drive progress, enhance service delivery, and align with the state’s long-term development plan.
The Governor of Cross River State, Senator Bassey Otu, has officially deposed Ntufam Linus Effiong Oben Tabi from his role as the village head of Mbot Akpa and Ekinta Clan, located in Akamkpa Local Government Area. According to the governor’s Special Adviser on Chieftaincy Affairs, Otuekong Francis Edet, the decision was taken after a thorough review revealed that the traditional leader was involved in impersonation and obtaining recognition through misleading claims. Findings from Chieftaincy Affairs Investigation A detailed investigation conducted by the Department of Chieftaincy Affairs confirmed that Tabi secured a certificate of recognition for Mbot Akpa village. However, Mbot Akpa was not included under the Cross River State Edict No. 1 (Clan Creation) of 1996, raising serious concerns about the legitimacy of his claims. The official decertification letter also pointed out that Mbot Akpa is essentially the same as Esuk Effiom Iyaweh in Iko Eneyo Clan, Akpabuyo Local Government Area. Authorities concluded that this was a calculated attempt by Tabi to create legitimacy through deceptive means. Dual Leadership Across Two Local Government Areas Further findings uncovered that Ntufam Tabi was simultaneously occupying leadership positions in two separate clans located in different LGAs. Opponents described this as unlawful and destabilizing, insisting that such actions undermine community harmony and traditional authority structures. Petition by Traditional Rulers The disciplinary action came after a petition submitted by five traditional rulers under the Ekonganaku Traditional Rulers Council. The petition demanded his removal in order to restore peace, order, and respect for cultural institutions within the affected communities. Government’s Position Confirming the development, Special Adviser Francis Edet stated that the Cross River State Government would not tolerate misconduct from any traditional authority. He emphasized that peace, stability, and respect for the law must guide the recognition of all traditional rulers across the state. Reaction of the Dethroned Monarch When approached, the dethroned clan head, Ntufam Linus Effiong Oben Tabi, explained that he had not yet been served with an official notice of removal. In his words: “I have nothing to say for now because I am yet to be served. Once I am served, if the law says it’s right, no problem. If it says it’s wrong, I will know what to do.”
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The Abia State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Federal Government’s ongoing campaign against the spread of small arms and light weapons in Nigeria. Governor Alex Otti emphasized this position while hosting a delegation led by Captain Chris Anusiem, the newly appointed South East Zonal Director of the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (NCCSALW), during their courtesy visit to his office. Governor Otti noted that the disturbing rise in crimes across the country is largely fueled by the unchecked circulation of illicit weapons. He pointed out that almost every violent act is executed with light arms, stressing the urgent need for collaborative measures to reduce such threats. “Virtually, all the crimes you see around are committed with light weapons and small arms.If we don’t eliminate them, or at least reduce them to the barest minimum, then we cannot have peace,” the Governor said. Security Commitment in Abia State Otti highlighted that his administration is actively working with relevant security agencies to ensure that criminals escaping from neighboring states do not find refuge in Abia. He assured that strategies are in place to reinforce security and maintain law and order across the state. The Governor also expressed gratitude to the Federal Government for establishing the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons. He appreciated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing DIG Johnson Babatunde Kukum, his close associate, as the Director General of the Centre. According to Otti, the appointment is a positive step, and he expressed confidence in Kukum’s ability to deliver excellent results. Familiarization Visit by NCCSALW In his remarks, Captain Chris Anusiem explained that his visit was part of a familiarization tour following his posting to Enugu to head the South East Zonal office of NCCSALW. He praised Governor Otti’s administration for its effective peace-keeping efforts in Abia State. Anusiem further reiterated that the vision of the National Centre is to promote an illicit arms-free society, aligning with global security best practices. According to him, reducing the proliferation of illegal arms is key to ensuring lasting peace and sustainable development in Nigeria. This collaboration between Abia State and the Federal Government represents a critical step in addressing insecurity, fostering community safety, and creating an environment that supports peace and progress.
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The Concerned Christian Youth Forum (CCYF) has issued a strong appeal to the Governor of Niger State, Umar Bago, demanding the immediate withdrawal of a controversial policy that requires preachers to present their sermons to the government for approval before public delivery. In a detailed statement signed by the Convener, James Paul Adama, the CCYF described the law as oppressive, retrogressive, and a direct violation of fundamental human rights. According to the group, such a policy is not only unconstitutional but also dangerous for democracy and peaceful coexistence in the state. The Constitutional and Human Rights Argument The CCYF emphasized that the policy represents a form of religious censorship and violates Sections 38 and 39 of the Nigerian Constitution, which safeguard the rights to freedom of thought, conscience, religion, and expression. The group further highlighted international legal instruments that protect religious freedom, including: These international charters collectively affirm that individuals must have the right to freely practice and express their faith without government interference. Call to Address Poverty and Insecurity Instead The Christian youth body urged the Niger State government to redirect its attention toward addressing the pressing socio-economic challenges plaguing the state. They pointed out that Niger State has one of the highest poverty levels in Nigeria, with more than 64 percent of its population living below the poverty line. Rather than drafting laws that restrict religious expression, the group advised the government to concentrate on: A Stand for Responsible Preaching, Not Censorship The CCYF clarified that it remains firmly opposed to reckless, divisive, or inciteful preaching. However, they maintained that subjecting sermons to government approval is unjustifiable, discriminatory, and a threat to social harmony. They described the law as “obnoxious” and warned that implementing it would undermine religious freedom, further polarize communities, and damage the image of the state. Final Appeal to Governor Bago In conclusion, the Christian youth group urged Governor Umar Bago to reconsider and discard the policy immediately in the spirit of peace, justice, fairness, and adherence to both constitutional and international human rights provisions. They emphasized that good governance should focus on empowering citizens and building stronger institutions, not stifling religious liberty.
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The outgoing Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Ibok-Ete Ibas, has urged the people of the state to put unity and peace above personal ambition, stressing that no political ambition or electoral triumph is worth the blood of any Rivers citizen. Ibas made this passionate call on Sunday during an interdenominational thanksgiving service held at the Ecumenical Centre in Port Harcourt, the state capital. The event was organized to mark Rivers State’s transition back to democratic governance following the successful conduct of the local council elections. LMSINT Media recalls that President Bola Tinubu appointed Ibok-Ete Ibas in March as Sole Administrator of Rivers State to oversee governance during the six-month emergency rule declared in the state. Reflecting on his tenure, Ibas noted that Rivers State was deeply divided, unstable, and plagued by mistrust before the intervention of emergency administration. In his words: “Political actors must sheath their swords because no political victory or personal interest is worth the blood of any Rivers citizen. The peace, unity, and prosperity of Rivers State must take precedence over personal ambition or partisan politics. Politics must never become an excuse to destroy the very state we are called to protect and serve.” The administrator emphasized that only collective commitment and prioritizing the state’s future above self-interest would guarantee long-term growth and stability in Rivers.
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The Ondo State Government has officially suspended three senior officials for their alleged role in a recruitment fraud linked to the recent employment exercise for teachers in the state. The suspended officers include two directors and a deputy director, who were removed from duty following the directive of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, pending the outcome of an ongoing investigation into the job racketeering scandal. According to reports, the officials were accused of collecting between ₦500,000 and ₦700,000 from unsuspecting job seekers, depending on their academic qualifications, in exchange for fraudulent appointment letters. The scam was uncovered after several individuals staged a protest, claiming they were unfairly excluded from the biometric verification exercise for newly employed teachers. However, investigations later revealed that most of the protesters had presented forged employment documents, which raised suspicion. In an official statement released by Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Aiyedatiwa, the government clarified that the protesters were not among the more than 2,000 teachers legitimately recruited and already deployed across various schools in the state. Adeniyan explained that internal findings confirmed that the three suspended officials at the Ondo State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) had conspired with external accomplices to provide fake appointment and posting letters to unsuspecting applicants in exchange for large sums of money. Governor Aiyedatiwa’s spokesperson emphasized: “The attention of the Governor has been drawn to a protest by some individuals who claimed they were wrongly excluded from the SUBEB recruitment process. To clarify, these protesters were not genuine employees of the state but rather victims of fraud. They paid money to scammers and were issued counterfeit letters. During biometric verification, their documents were discovered to be invalid. Disciplinary action has been taken against the three SUBEB officials found guilty of colluding with outsiders to exploit job seekers.” This development highlights the government’s resolve to maintain transparency and accountability in public service recruitment while assuring citizens that fraudulent practices will not be tolerated.
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Former President of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria and 2023 presidential aspirant under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Mazi Sam Ohuabunwa, has revealed that the inability of opposition candidates to form a united front in the 2023 general election gave President Bola Ahmed Tinubu the needed advantage to secure victory. According to him, the disunity among Atiku Abubakar of the PDP, Peter Obi of the Labour Party, and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) ultimately weakened the opposition bloc. He emphasized that the fragmentation of votes was a decisive factor that handed Tinubu his win under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC). Opposition Votes Could Have Changed the Outcome In an interview with The Sun, Ohuabunwa stated that if the votes garnered by the three major opposition figures had been combined, the results would have been different. He stressed that the collective votes of Obi, Atiku, and Kwankwaso nearly doubled those of President Tinubu in 2023, which shows that unity could have significantly altered the political landscape. “If those votes were merged, Tinubu would not have emerged victorious,” Ohuabunwa noted, highlighting the critical role of coalition politics in Nigeria’s democracy. Why Tinubu Benefited from Opposition Defections Ohuabunwa further explained that the exit of the three powerful politicians and their supporters from the PDP was a huge loss to the party and a turning point in the election. Their departure created an opening that allowed the ruling APC to consolidate its strength and emerge victorious. He argued that the APC capitalized on the disunity, just as it had done in the past when it rose to power through a coalition involving the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP), and the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC). The 2027 Election and the Possibility of a Coalition Looking ahead to the 2027 elections, Ohuabunwa expressed optimism that if Atiku, Obi, and Kwankwaso can put aside personal ambitions and unite, they have a real chance to unseat the ruling party. However, he warned that the APC is determined to frustrate any attempt at forming such a coalition. “From all indications, the APC does not want this alliance to succeed. They don’t want it to take root, talk less of bearing fruit. But if the opposition can work together, they will have the numbers to defeat the ruling government—provided there is a free and fair election,” he added. The politician maintained that Nigeria’s history has shown the power of alliances. Just as APC once used coalition politics to dethrone the PDP, he believes a united opposition can reverse the current power dynamics in 2027
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The Chief of Staff to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Olufemi Gbajabiamila, alongside ex-Senate President Ken Nnamani and former Speaker Yakubu Dogara, joined several other southern lawmakers in Ogun State for the 2025 Southern Legislators’ Summit. The summit, organized by Gbajabiamila, carried the theme “National Unity: Bedrock of Nation Building” and was hosted at the June 12 Cultural Centre in Kuto, Abeokuta, the capital of Ogun State. Prominent political figures at the event included former Speaker Patricia Olubunmi Etteh, the National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Ajibola Bashiru, and ex-Senate Leader Victor Ndoma Egba. Also in attendance were Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, the Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly, Oludaisi Elemide, and other distinguished personalities. During his opening remarks, the National Coordinator of the National Forum of Former Legislators (NFFL), Rapheal Nnanna Igbokwe, emphasized that the summit was designed as a platform for reunion, networking, and dialogue on key national concerns. He noted that the focus would be on fostering peace, unity, and sustainable development across Nigeria. According to Igbokwe: “It is a great honor to welcome all our delegates and invited guests to the 2025 Southern Summit of Former Legislators. This gathering offers another opportunity to reconnect, exchange ideas, and, most importantly, lend our voices to pressing national issues. As an organized body, we remain committed to promoting peace, strengthening democracy, and ensuring national prosperity.” He further appealed for enhanced collaboration among state governments to complement the policies and efforts of the federal government. The event marks another significant moment in Nigeria’s democratic journey, bringing together leaders who have contributed to shaping the country’s political history. With the summit’s emphasis on unity and nation-building, it reinforces the call for collective responsibility in addressing Nigeria’s challenges.
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Political leaders and key stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ekiti State have restated their strong support for the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Biodun Oyebanji for second terms in office. The gathering, held at the country home of the late General Adeyinka Adebayo in Iyin-Ekiti on Friday, emphasized the importance of continuity in leadership, both at the national level under President Tinubu and in Ekiti State under Governor Oyebanji. The strategic meeting was graced by prominent figures, including two former governors, Chief Niyi Adebayo and Dr. Kayode Fayemi; Governor Biodun Oyebanji; his deputy, Monisade Afuye; Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele; the Speaker of Ekiti State House of Assembly, Adeoye Aribasoye; as well as National Assembly members, state legislators, local government chairmen, and other influential party stakeholders. Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele moved the motion endorsing President Tinubu’s re-election bid, which was seconded by Hon. Olusola Fatoba, representing Ekiti Central Federal Constituency 1. Similarly, Speaker Adeoye Aribasoye initiated the motion endorsing Governor Oyebanji’s second term, supported by Chief Whip Bose Olowookere of the Efon Constituency. Both motions were unanimously ratified by a resounding voice vote from attendees. Former governors Niyi Adebayo and Kayode Fayemi, in their individual remarks, stressed the necessity of unity and grassroots mobilization to secure victory in upcoming elections. They reminded members of the party not to become complacent, underscoring that consistent participation and inclusiveness will solidify APC’s political dominance in the state. Dr. Fayemi lauded party members for their loyalty to Governor Oyebanji, assuring them of his full commitment to APC’s growth and long-term success. He praised Oyebanji’s developmental achievements, predicting that the governor’s performance would ease his re-election path. He also encouraged members to preserve the culture of continuity, expressing optimism that Oyebanji would break the one-term cycle in Ekiti politics and lead the first smooth transition of power within the same party in the state. On behalf of the National Assembly members, Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele reaffirmed their collective readiness to rally massive support for Governor Oyebanji’s re-election. Governor Biodun Oyebanji, while appreciating the solidarity of stakeholders, reiterated his determination to foster unity and inclusivity within the party. He assured members that his administration would remain focused on aggressive developmental strides and policies that would make the APC more appealing to the people. Oyebanji described the October 17 primary election as the starting point for the 2026 governorship and 2027 presidential elections, urging all party members to work together as one family. He cautioned against intimidation or bullying among aspirant supporters, insisting that harmony must remain the foundation of the party’s strength. “We are one united family. Everyone has the right to pursue their aspirations without fear or harassment, but ultimately, we must all come together to secure victory at the polls,” the governor emphasized. APC State Chairman, Olusola Elesin, noted that the meeting served as a platform to assess the party’s readiness for the primaries and to reinforce internal unity. He commended Governor Oyebanji and other leaders for their continued support, especially towards the party’s secretariat project. Elesin added that Oyebanji’s performance has already positioned the APC for a strong showing in the next governorship election.
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The Imo State Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Professor James Okoroma, has strongly accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of orchestrating the recent violent attack on the former governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai. Speaking in an interview with Arise News on Thursday, Okoroma claimed that the incident was not a random act of violence but a carefully planned assault allegedly funded and executed by APC loyalists. He emphasized that such actions are a direct threat to Nigeria’s democracy and national stability. According to Okoroma, the disruption that took place during an event attended by El-Rufai was carried out by individuals who were allegedly paid and mobilized in hired buses to execute the attack. “I cannot categorically tell you the specific figures behind this, but based on our independent investigations, the attack bears the clear signature of the APC. The ruling party feels threatened by the growing political relevance of the African Democratic Congress,” he said. Okoroma further explained that the attackers were not ordinary protesters but organized groups whose logistics, placards, and equipment were allegedly sponsored. “From what we gathered, the hoodlums were paid. I was present at the event. Buses were rented to convey them. Someone financed the transportation, funded the materials, and sponsored the placards they carried. Everything indicated a well-organized setup,” he added. The ADC leader described the development as a dangerous extension of political violence in Nigeria, noting that similar incidents have been reported in other states. He warned that targeting El-Rufai, who is now an influential figure within the ADC coalition, could potentially destabilize the country if such attacks persist. Professor Okoroma urged the APC-led government to redirect its focus toward addressing Nigeria’s pressing challenges, including economic hardship, high poverty rates, and poor infrastructure, instead of allegedly sponsoring acts of intimidation against opposition leaders.
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Nobel Laureate and globally celebrated writer, Wole Soyinka, has shared a shocking personal experience of being kidnapped and robbed in Bucharest, Romania. The revered playwright had traveled to Romania for the Sibiu International Theatre Festival, one of the world’s most prominent performing arts gatherings, where he was to be specially honoured for his immense contribution to literature and theatre. According to Soyinka, he landed in Bucharest Airport after midnight and boarded what appeared to be a legitimate taxi, supposedly heading to his booked accommodation at the Novotel Hotel. However, the journey took a frightening turn. Speaking during an interview with TheNews in Lagos, Soyinka disclosed that midway to the hotel, the driver suddenly diverted from the main route and drove into a deserted, poorly lit area. At about 1:00 a.m., the driver halted the car and shockingly produced a POS machine, ordering the Nobel Laureate to input his bank PIN. Soyinka recounted: “He kept covering the POS screen, preventing me from seeing the amount I was expected to confirm. For nearly half an hour, I intentionally keyed in the wrong digits, hoping that within that time, a passerby or hotel staff might come to my rescue. But the environment was completely deserted.” This frightening encounter led to a tense standoff between the renowned playwright and the driver. Despite Soyinka’s attempt to resist, the attacker insisted until finally abandoning him near the vicinity of his hotel. Unfortunately, the robbery left him dispossessed of his money. Reflecting on the incident, Soyinka said: “It’s not just about the money. While I dislike losing money, for me this experience was far deeper. It represents an attack not only on me as an individual but also on the entire community.” This disturbing ordeal highlights the risks international travelers sometimes face, even when they rely on what seems like official airport taxis. Security experts often advise travelers to verify taxi credentials or use reputable ride-hailing services. For further context, BBC News and other global outlets have reported similar security issues in Eastern Europe, underscoring the importance of vigilance.
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The Lagos State Government has once again reaffirmed its strong determination to eliminate malaria, with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu pledging that the fight against the disease will continue until it is completely eradicated. Speaking during the Mid-Term Review of the Pathway to Malaria Pre-Elimination in Lagos State, held at Eko Hotels, Victoria Island, the governor emphasized that malaria will no longer have a place in Lagos if the current progress is sustained. The review meeting brought together a wide range of stakeholders, including national policymakers, international development partners, and private sector leaders. The aim was to assess the progress made through the Impact Project and the digital malaria monitoring system introduced earlier in March. Lagos’ Progress in Malaria Reduction Governor Sanwo-Olu revealed that malaria prevalence in Lagos has been reduced to approximately one percent, which he described as a remarkable milestone proving that the state is firmly on track towards total elimination. “When we initiated this journey in March, our vision was simple yet ambitious — to shift Lagos from being a malaria-burdened state to one on the brink of elimination. The most recent data now shows that we are much closer to achieving this goal. Lagos will not rest until malaria becomes history, not only for us but as a model for Nigeria and the rest of Africa,” Sanwo-Olu stated. The Role of Digital Surveillance The governor also highlighted the significance of the newly launched digital malaria surveillance platform. This system effectively connects public hospitals, private clinics, pharmacies, and patent medicine vendors, allowing real-time monitoring and reporting of malaria cases across Lagos. “For the first time, we have a technology-driven system that makes malaria truly visible throughout the state. Every Lagos resident must have access to rapid diagnostic testing and effective treatment immediately when needed. No single case should be ignored or left untreated,” he emphasized. Community Responsibility in Malaria Prevention Sanwo-Olu called on Lagos residents to take responsibility by playing their part in the fight against malaria. He encouraged them to: By combining government efforts with community participation, the governor expressed optimism that Lagos will serve as a shining example in the global drive to eliminate malaria.
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Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has once again emphasized his administration’s dedication to strengthening grassroots governance. He expressed strong backing for a newly proposed bill that aims to grant complete autonomy to local government councils across the state. This commitment was revealed in an official statement released by his spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, on Friday. Governor Yusuf made the declaration during the 31st Executive Council meeting, which was held at the Government House Annex in Kwankwasiyya City. During the session, the council officially approved the transmission of the bill to the Kano State House of Assembly for further legislative debate and consideration. According to the governor, the proposed legislation will ensure that all 44 local government councils in Kano State receive both administrative and financial independence. By doing so, councils will be able to: Governor Yusuf highlighted that this reform is not just a political move but a crucial foundation for good governance, transparency, and accountability at the grassroots. He stressed that full local government autonomy is vital for accelerating rural development and ensuring democratic participation across the state. He further expressed optimism that members of the Kano State House of Assembly would fully support the bill, noting that it is in alignment with the aspirations and overall interests of the people of Kano. The governor described the initiative as a major step in deepening democracy and giving power back to the people at the community level. This proposed reform mirrors broader national conversations around restructuring and the empowerment of local government councils in Nigeria, which many analysts believe could unlock development at the grassroots level if effectively implemented.
