The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has strongly criticized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s 2026 budget, branding it as a “budget of consolidated renewed sufferings” for ordinary Nigerians. According to the opposition, the so-called “Budget of Consolidation, Renewed Resilience, and Shared Prosperity,” recently presented to the National Assembly, glosses over the ongoing economic struggles that the majority of citizens continue to face. In an official statement issued by the PDP National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Ini Ememobong, the party contended that despite the government’s repeated claims of stabilizing the economy, poverty levels are rising, and millions of Nigerians continue to experience severe hardship. “More than 30.9% of Nigerians live below the international extreme poverty line,” the PDP statement highlighted, referencing the 2025 World Bank Poverty & Equity Brief. The opposition party also challenged the 3.98% economic growth rate touted by President Tinubu, insisting that the growth does not translate into tangible improvements in the day-to-day lives of citizens. “While the President celebrates a 3.98% growth rate, ordinary Nigerians still endure extreme hunger, rising living costs, and other indicators of widespread economic distress,” the PDP added in the release. The party further warned that presenting such a budget as a pathway to prosperity could mislead citizens and fail to address the pressing issues of inflation, unemployment, and inadequate social services. PDP’s critique underlines a growing sentiment among Nigerians who feel disconnected from the benefits of the country’s reported economic growth. As debates continue over the contents and implications of the 2026 budget, analysts note that bridging the gap between economic indicators and citizens’ real-life experiences remains a critical challenge for the government.
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Zamfara State has strongly dismissed what it described as inaccurate and deceptive statements issued by the All Progressives Congress (APC) concerning the recent visit of Governor Dauda Lawal to the Dansadau Emirate in Maru Local Government Area of the state. Reacting to the controversy, the PDP expressed firm opposition to the narrative presented by the ruling APC, stating that the claims circulating in the public space do not reflect the reality of the governor’s visit to the emirate. In an official statement released on Friday and signed by the party’s Publicity Secretary, Halliru Andi, the PDP revealed that it received the APC’s press statement with deep disappointment and concern. According to the opposition party, the contents of the release were not only misleading but also deliberately crafted to misinform the public. The PDP accused the APC of attempting to distort the purpose and outcome of Governor Dauda Lawal’s trip by spreading what it termed fictional accounts. The party maintained that the visit to Dansadau Emirate was wrongly portrayed by the APC, insisting that the ruling party’s version of events lacked factual basis. Furthermore, the PDP stressed that such actions by the APC were capable of confusing residents of the state and undermining public trust. The party reiterated its stance that Governor Lawal’s visit should not be subjected to political misrepresentation or false narratives. By condemning the APC’s claims, the PDP reaffirmed its commitment to countering what it views as deliberate misinformation and urged political actors to prioritize truth and responsibility in public communication, especially on issues involving governance and community engagement.
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Uchechigeme Anyanwụụtụtụ Okwu-Kanu, the wife of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has spoken about the deeply personal and painful circumstances surrounding her husband’s abduction, an experience that has continued to shape their lives. In a post shared on social media on Thursday, Okwu-Kanu reflected on the intense sacrifices and emotional strain both she and her husband have endured over the years. She described their journey as one marked by personal loss and hardship, tied to what she called a broader struggle aimed at the “restoration and transformation” of their people. According to her account, the incident occurred in 2009 and remains one of the most traumatic moments in their family history. She revealed that Nnamdi Kanu was seized in public view on 19 December 2009, an event that unfolded in broad daylight. The timing of the abduction made the experience even more devastating, as that same day had been set aside for their traditional marriage ceremony. Okwu-Kanu’s recollection highlights how the event disrupted what was meant to be a significant cultural and personal milestone. Instead of celebrating their union, the day became a turning point marked by fear, uncertainty, and sudden separation. Her narration underscores the emotional toll of that moment and how it altered the course of their lives. By sharing this experience, Okwu-Kanu sheds light on the personal dimension behind widely reported political developments, emphasizing that beyond public debates and headlines are families who carry lasting emotional scars. Her account serves as a reminder of the human cost associated with prolonged political struggles and unresolved conflicts.
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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has openly acknowledged that his rise to Nigeria’s highest political office was not an easy journey, stressing that his eventual success was made possible through persistence, resilience, and the guidance of God. Addressing party leaders during the 15th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the All Progressives Congress (APC) held in Abuja on Friday, the President reflected on the demanding road that led to the 2023 general election. He described the period as one filled with intense pressure, uncertainty, and obstacles that tested both his political ambition and the endurance of Nigerians nationwide. According to Tinubu, the campaign season coincided with a particularly difficult chapter in Nigeria’s recent history. Citizens were confronted with harsh economic realities and social disruptions that affected daily life across the country. These challenges included widespread food shortages, the controversial currency redesign policy, and a prolonged fuel scarcity that left many Nigerians stranded in long queues at petrol stations. The President emphasized that these combined pressures created an atmosphere of frustration and hardship, making the election period one of the most trying moments for the nation. Despite these circumstances, he noted that perseverance remained essential, and faith played a central role in sustaining hope through the uncertainty. Tinubu’s remarks underscored his belief that leadership is often forged in moments of adversity. He maintained that overcoming such a turbulent path reinforced his conviction that divine intervention and unwavering determination were critical factors in achieving his presidential mandate.
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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is set to begin an official tour across three Nigerian states this weekend, departing from the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. The visit will cover Borno State, Bauchi State, and Lagos State, marking another phase of the President’s engagement with subnational governments. The planned trip was made public on Friday through an official statement released by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga. According to the disclosure, the visit forms part of the President’s ongoing oversight and governance activities across different regions of the country. During his stop in Borno State, President Tinubu is expected to participate in the commissioning of several completed projects. These projects are jointly executed at both the federal and state levels. The commissioning exercise will be carried out in collaboration with the Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, highlighting continued cooperation between the federal government and state authorities. The visit underscores the administration’s focus on infrastructure delivery and direct engagement with state leadership. It also reflects the President’s commitment to monitoring developmental progress and strengthening ties with regional governments across Nigeria.
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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has officially classified all armed groups operating outside the authority of the Nigerian state as terrorists. This designation covers Fulani militias, bandit groups, violent cult networks, and other non-state actors who carry weapons and engage in violent activities without government approval. The President made this declaration while presenting the ₦58.46 trillion 2026 Appropriation Bill to a joint sitting of the National Assembly on Friday. During the budget presentation, he emphasized the government’s position on national security and the threat posed by armed groups that operate independently of state control. By categorizing these groups as terrorists, the administration signals a unified stance against all forms of organized violence that undermine public safety, national stability, and the rule of law. The statement places Fulani militias, bandits, violent cults, and other armed non-state actors under the same security and legal framework, regardless of their background or structure. This declaration underscores the government’s intention to confront insecurity with a broader definition that removes ambiguity around armed violence. It also reflects an effort to align internal security responses with international counterterrorism standards, where non-state armed groups engaging in violence are treated as terrorist threats. The announcement, delivered during a major fiscal address, highlights the administration’s view that security remains central to Nigeria’s economic planning and national priorities. It reinforces the message that addressing insecurity is essential for governance, development, and long-term stability.
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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has issued a firm warning to state governors across Nigeria, stating that he may resort to issuing an Executive Order to guarantee the direct release of funds to local government councils if state authorities fail to respect the recent Supreme Court ruling on local government financial autonomy. The President made this position clear on Friday while addressing participants at the 15th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the All Progressives Congress (APC). The meeting took place at the State House Conference Centre in Abuja, bringing together key party leaders and stakeholders. According to President Tinubu, the Supreme Court judgment granting financial independence to local governments must not remain symbolic. He emphasized that for autonomy at the grassroots level to have real impact, it must be supported by unrestricted access to statutory allocations meant for local councils. While reflecting on discussions held a day earlier during the 14th APC National Caucus meeting, the President noted that he had already drawn attention to the importance of enforcing local government autonomy. He stressed that without direct funding, local councils would remain unable to perform their constitutional responsibilities effectively. President Tinubu’s remarks suggest growing concern within the Federal Government that some state administrations may delay or resist implementing the court’s decision. He indicated that if such resistance continues, the Federal Government may be compelled to take decisive action to ensure compliance. By referencing the possibility of an Executive Order, the President signaled that enforcement mechanisms remain available to the presidency, especially where constitutional provisions and judicial pronouncements are not being fully respected. The warning serves as a reminder that the Supreme Court ruling on local government financial autonomy is binding and that meaningful governance at the grassroots level depends on unhindered access to allocated funds.
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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reiterated his assurance that Nigeria’s security challenges are poised for significant improvement once State Police are instituted nationwide. Speaking about the anticipated impact of State Police, President Tinubu said he confidently assured leaders from the United States (US) and the European Union (EU) that establishing State policing structures in Nigeria will lead to tangible enhancements in public safety and internal security. According to the President, his remarks to international partners emphasized that Nigeria’s security architecture would be bolstered and more effective with decentralised policing. Tinubu described how he had boldly communicated this belief to senior officials from the US and EU, asserting that with the creation of State Police, security operations would be more responsive, localized, and aligned with unique challenges across Nigeria’s diverse states. He highlighted that this structural change would address existing gaps in intelligence, rapid response, and community engagement that have long limited the Federal Police’s capacity. During his remarks, the President underscored the ongoing efforts by his administration to pursue reforms that reflect modern security needs. He explained that giving states the authority to establish and fund their own policing structures would lead to a more comprehensive and cohesive law enforcement framework, tailored to the varying security dynamics in Nigeria’s regions. Tinubu also acknowledged that while existing security forces have performed commendably under difficult circumstances, the evolving nature of threats demands deeper reforms. He said that by investing in State Police, Nigeria would be enhancing real‑time operations, crime prevention, and proactive intelligence gathering. According to the President, the argument he presented to the US and EU leaders was centered on a simple conclusion: empowering states to manage their internal security will strengthen national stability and foster a safer environment for citizens and investors alike. His remarks have sparked renewed discussion among policymakers, civil society, and security analysts about the feasibility, legislative requirements, and implementation strategies for State Police. Many observers agree that if properly structured and governed with accountability, State Police could close critical security gaps and improve community trust in law enforcement.
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The Gomo of Kuje, Alhaji Dr. Haruna C. Jibrin, Esu Sa’Rubochi, Alhaji Brahim Mohammed Pada, and the Etsu of Kwali, Luka Ayedo Nizassan, have publicly declared their unwavering support for the reelection of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The monarchs emphasized that satellite towns within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) are beginning to experience the tangible benefits of federal government initiatives, particularly over the past two years. The traditional rulers shared their views while receiving the FCT Renewed Hope Ambassadors, led by its Coordinator, Hon. Adamu Abdullahi, popularly known as Candido, at their respective palaces on Thursday. Speaking during the visit, the Esu Sa’Rubochi of Kuje Area Council lauded the appointment of Hon. Abdullahi as the Coordinator of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, highlighting that the federal government’s presence is now highly visible in Rubochi. He remarked, “Even the blind can sense the positive impact of governance in Rubochi,” underlining the community’s appreciation for ongoing development. The Esu Sa’Rubochi also assured both President Tinubu and FCT Minister Nyesom Wike of his steadfast support, pledging to leverage all available influence to ensure the All Progressives Congress (APC) achieves a decisive victory in the upcoming elections. Meanwhile, the Gomo of Kuje, Alhaji Haruna Jibrin, commended the significant improvements in the town’s road network. He explained that enhanced road connectivity has not only facilitated smoother transportation but has also attracted businesses and residents, transforming Kuje into a thriving economic hub within the FCT. The monarch added that these infrastructural upgrades have created new opportunities, encouraging investments and boosting the local economy. The traditional rulers’ endorsements highlight the growing recognition of development-focused governance in the FCT and underscore the crucial role of community leaders in mobilizing support for political initiatives. Observers note that such grassroots backing could play a significant role in shaping the outcome of the forthcoming elections. These developments also align with broader efforts by the federal government and FCT leadership to enhance infrastructure, improve connectivity, and foster economic growth across Nigeria’s capital region, benefiting both residents and businesses.
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The legal process at the Ajegunle District Magistrate’s Court was brought to a standstill due to a jurisdictional objection raised over the execution of an eviction order involving commercial units at Alaba International Market, Ojo. During proceedings, Mr. Eric Igweokolo, who serves as the President of the Association for the Protection and Defence of Human Rights, informed the magistrate’s bench that the removal of occupants from shops H9 and H9A, which are registered in the names of Mr. Eke Chukwu and Mrs. Jane Ezeiffeoma respectively, was conducted improperly. He argued that those premises were not part of the decision originally issued by the magistrate’s court. Igweokolo further asserted before the court that the dispute over these commercial properties was already under active consideration at the High Court of Lagos State, Badagry Division. He maintained that any attempt by the magistrate’s court to entertain or enforce actions related to the same subject matter went beyond its lawful authority, contending that the magistrate’s jurisdiction did not extend to this case given the existing High Court litigation. As a result of this raised objection, the magistrate’s court was unable to proceed with the enforcement of the eviction order, and the session was effectively paused to allow for proper determination of the jurisdictional question. The matter now hinges on resolution of the dispute over which court holds legitimate authority to adjudicate and enforce decisions connected to the contested shops within the busy commercial hub of Alaba International Market. The outcome of this dispute, once settled, will set a precedent for enforcement protocols and jurisdictional boundaries in cases where decisions from magistrate courts intersect with matters already brought before higher judicial divisions.
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There is growing ambiguity surrounding the whereabouts of the 11 Nigerian Air Force personnel and the C‑130 military aircraft following their reported release by Burkinabè officials, with conflicting accounts emerging about whether they have actually left Burkina Faso for Portugal. The Federal Government of Nigeria has stated it cannot confirm if the crew and aircraft have departed, challenging earlier reports that they had already resumed their journey to Portugal. According to Kimiebi Ebienfa, the spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, although Burkina Faso’s authorities did release the aircrew and aircraft, it was not clear at the time of the latest update whether they had taken off. Ebienfa explained that after their release, the aircraft encountered another technical issue, which delayed its departure. He clarified that while the team was preparing to head to Portugal — the original destination for scheduled maintenance — confirmation of the actual departure was pending further updates from the crew. Vanguard News This development followed high‑level diplomatic engagement between Nigerian officials and the Burkina Faso government. A delegation led by Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, met with Burkina Faso’s military leader, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, in Ouagadougou. The diplomatic mission reportedly resolved the tense standoff, leading to the release of the detained personnel and aircraft. The initial incident began when the NAF C‑130 aircraft made an emergency landing at the Bobo‑Dioulasso airfield on December 8, 2025, due to a technical issue while en route to Portugal from Lagos. The Nigerian Air Force has stated that the landing was a safety‑driven, precautionary measure in compliance with international aviation protocols. Despite this explanation, Burkina Faso’s military authorities, supported by the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) — a bloc including Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger — described the landing as a violation of their airspace. AES officials had placed their air defenses on high alert, asserting their right to act against unauthorized entries. Confusion persisted over the fate of the detained NAF personnel in the days that followed, with some reports indicating ongoing diplomatic negotiations and others suggesting the release had already occurred. As recent as this week, national authorities in both countries were providing diverging statements on the situation. At the time of writing, the Nigerian government’s position remains cautious, emphasizing that clarification is still awaited regarding whether the aircraft and its crew have resumed the flight to Portugal. This story underscores the complexities of regional military cooperation and diplomatic communication in West Africa.
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Popular Afrobeats performer David Adeleke, widely recognized by fans as Davido, has publicly stated that the Nigerian music industry would lack excitement if he were not part of it. The award-winning singer shared this opinion through his verified X (formerly Twitter) account, where he made a bold remark highlighting his influence within the entertainment space. According to Davido, imagining the Nigerian music scene without his presence would result in a dull and uninspiring industry. In his post, the music star emphasized that his absence would significantly reduce the energy and vibrancy associated with Nigerian music. The statement quickly attracted attention online, sparking discussions among fans and followers who reacted to his confidence and self-assurance. Davido’s comment reflects his belief in the impact he has made over the years through his sound, performances, and overall contribution to Afrobeats. His message suggests that his involvement has helped shape the appeal and excitement currently associated with the Nigerian music scene.
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Popular Nigerian Afrobeats sensation, Davido, has openly expressed his interest in collaborating with internationally acclaimed music star Rihanna. The award-winning singer made this revelation while speaking during a live streaming session with well-known Nigerian content creator and musician, Carter Efe. The conversation, which quickly gained attention online, featured Davido discussing music, creativity, and potential collaborations. During the livestream, Davido clearly stated his admiration for Rihanna and emphasized that working with her would be something he would genuinely love to do. His statement immediately sparked conversations among fans of both artistes, especially across social media platforms, where the video clip has continued to circulate. Although no official collaboration has been confirmed, Davido’s comment highlights his openness to exploring creative partnerships beyond borders. Over the years, Davido has consistently shown interest in global collaborations, making his statement during the livestream unsurprising to many followers of his career. The moment has since generated widespread reactions, with fans expressing excitement at the possibility of seeing two globally recognized music icons on the same project. The livestream video continues to trend, keeping discussions alive around the potential collaboration.
