A section of the Lagos International Trade Fair Complex has been temporarily shut down after a violent confrontation resulted in the death of one individual and left three others injured at the Balogun Business Association (BBA) market. The incident unfolded on Sunday along the Badagry Expressway corridor, prompting authorities to immediately seal off the affected area. This action was taken to prevent further escalation and restore calm within the busy commercial environment. What Led to the Clash Reports indicate that a task force established by the management board was carrying out enforcement of a stop-work directive targeting unauthorized construction activities within the complex. During the operation, the officials were allegedly attacked by armed individuals. The attackers reportedly opened fire on the task force members, leading to the immediate death of one officer while others sustained serious injuries. The enforcement action was aimed at halting illegal developments allegedly carried out by individuals linked to the BBA, who were said to have occupied unassigned sections of the complex and begun erecting structures without proper approval. Construction activities within the complex are regulated, with strict restrictions—particularly on weekends—unless prior authorization is granted. Eyewitness Account According to a witness present at the scene, the task force team was unaware that the individuals at the site were armed. Upon arrival, they were met with unexpected gunfire. “One of the officers died on the spot after being shot, while others suffered gunshot wounds,” the eyewitness explained. The injured victims were quickly transported to a nearby medical facility, where they are currently receiving treatment. Official Response and Security Measures The Executive Director of the management board, Veronica Ndanusa, confirmed that the BBA section would remain closed until those responsible for the attack are identified and apprehended. She emphasized that the shutdown was necessary to maintain order and prevent further violence. “The closure is to avoid a breakdown of law and order following the killing of a task force member during official duty. The area will remain secured until justice is served,” she stated. Ndanusa further clarified that the trade fair complex is federally owned and operates under the supervision of the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment. Traders within the premises function based on lease agreements, making compliance with regulations mandatory. Nature of the Attack Chairman of the Trade Fair Task Force, Alhaji Bakare, described the assault as deliberate and organized. He alleged that the attackers arrived equipped with firearms and other weapons. “They came prepared and opened fire on our team. We lost one member, and others were badly injured,” he said. The Chief Security Officer, Bawa Outa, also confirmed that warnings had previously been issued to halt the unauthorized construction before the situation escalated into violence. Deployment of Security Forces Following the incident, security personnel—including officers under the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Fatai Tijani—were deployed to the scene. Additional support from civil defence and military units helped restore order and evacuate victims. Ongoing Security Concerns This development adds to ongoing concerns regarding safety at the complex. It follows a previous security scare involving officials of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control during an enforcement exercise last year. Investigation Continues Authorities have launched a full investigation into the incident and assured the public that those responsible will be tracked down and prosecuted according to the law.
The National Publicity Secretary of the African Democratic Congress, Bolaji Abdullahi, has alleged that Peter Obi showed little concern for the party’s policy direction during his short stay, focusing instead on securing a presidential ticket ahead of the 2027 elections. Abdullahi made this claim on Monday while appearing on Prime Time on Arise News. During the interview, he also addressed the recent exits of Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso, describing their departure as a challenge but not a decisive setback for the party. According to Abdullahi, the ADC had spent several months crafting a detailed manifesto outlining its stance on key national matters. However, he claimed that Obi did not participate in shaping or understanding these policies. He argued that Obi lacked familiarity with the party’s position on critical issues such as fuel subsidy reforms and national security strategy. Abdullahi suggested that this disconnect reflected a broader trend among some politicians who view parties primarily as platforms for electoral ambition rather than institutions built on ideology and governance frameworks. Abdullahi further explained that members within the ADC generally fall into three categories. The first group consists of individuals who join solely to contest elections. The second includes those determined to challenge what they describe as the poor governance of the ruling All Progressives Congress. The third group, he noted, comprises individuals genuinely committed to building a policy-driven political structure. While he did not explicitly label Obi, Abdullahi’s remarks strongly suggested that the former Anambra State governor belonged to the first category. He emphasised that anyone seeking elective office under a party platform should have a clear understanding of its principles and policy direction. Addressing concerns about the ADC’s ability to remain a strong opposition force ahead of the 2027 elections, Abdullahi maintained an optimistic outlook. He acknowledged that the recent developments might temporarily affect the party’s momentum but insisted that efforts were underway to reorganise and strengthen its position. He also dismissed claims that Atiku Abubakar had emerged as the leading contender for the party’s presidential ticket. Abdullahi stressed that the ADC would not function as a vehicle for any single aspirant. He added that other notable figures, including Rotimi Amaechi, remain in contention. Obi and Kwankwaso had joined the ADC in March 2026 as part of a broader coalition aimed at challenging the APC in the next general elections. However, both politicians announced their exit on Sunday, citing internal disagreements, ongoing legal disputes, and what they described as deliberate obstacles affecting their political participation. Following their departure, both leaders aligned with the Nigeria Democratic Congress, where they advocated for an end to litigation-driven politics in Nigeria. In his reaction, Obi stated that his decision to leave the ADC was not motivated by personal ambition but by a desire to contribute to national progress. He pointed out that recurring internal conflicts were a major concern, noting that similar challenges had been encountered during his time in the Labour Party.
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A former Deputy Governor of Kano State, Aminu Gwarzo, has officially stepped down from the African Democratic Congress (ADC), signaling a notable shift in the political landscape of the state. According to a resignation letter dated May 1, 2026, and addressed to the party chairman in Gwarzo Local Government Area of Kano State, the seasoned politician confirmed that his exit from the party takes immediate effect. Reason Behind Gwarzo’s Exit from ADC In the letter, Gwarzo explained that his decision followed careful evaluation of recent political events. He emphasized that the changing political environment necessitated a reassessment of his affiliation with the party. He noted that extensive consultations were held with political allies, supporters, and stakeholders across the state before arriving at the conclusion to withdraw his membership. The former deputy governor highlighted that the evolving political climate played a major role in influencing his move, stating that it became essential to take a new direction that aligns with his long-term political aspirations. Commitment to New Political Direction Gwarzo further explained that his resignation was motivated by a sense of national interest and commitment to advancing governance ideals that reflect his vision. He stressed that his next political steps would be guided by principles such as good governance, democratic integrity, and sustainable development, particularly for Kano State and the country at large. According to him, pursuing a pathway that better represents his political beliefs became necessary in light of ongoing developments within the political system. Appreciation to ADC Leadership Despite his departure, Gwarzo expressed gratitude to the leadership and members of the ADC for the cooperation and support extended to him during his time with the party. He acknowledged the mutual respect and collaboration he experienced while serving as a member, noting that those relationships remain valuable. Possible Link to 2027 General Elections Although Gwarzo did not reveal his next political destination, his resignation is widely seen as part of broader political repositioning ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections. Political analysts believe that such movements among influential figures may signal upcoming alliances, strategic shifts, and intensified preparations among major stakeholders in the country’s political space.
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The evolving political alignment involving Peter Obi and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso continues to spark intense conversations across Northern Nigeria. Their reported shift into the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has triggered questions about how voters in the region may react ahead of the 2027 general elections. Although party leaders have described the move as a strategic effort to build a stronger and unified opposition front, reactions across the North remain divided. Political observers and residents alike are weighing whether this alliance will improve the opposition’s strength or weaken its influence in the region. It will be recalled that on Sunday, both Obi and Kwankwaso formally joined the NDC in Abuja, marking a significant shift in Nigeria’s political landscape. At the party’s national secretariat, the NDC National Chairman, Cleopas Moses Zuwoghe, presented membership cards to both leaders, confirming their official entry into the party. During the event, Kwankwaso explained that the decision followed extensive consultations with party stakeholders, noting that they found shared ideological values. According to him, discussions with NDC leaders revealed a strong alignment in beliefs and political direction. Obi, on his part, emphasized that the party is committed to rebuilding the nation and restoring trust in governance. He stated that the NDC aims to form a government that prioritizes national stability and ensures citizens can live without fear. He also urged members to avoid internal conflicts and legal battles, stressing the importance of unity within the party. He advised against litigation, noting that such distractions could hinder progress. Both leaders had earlier exited the African Democratic Congress (ADC), citing internal disputes as the primary reason for their departure. Kwankwasiyya Movement: NDC Seen as a Safer Platform The Kwankwasiyya movement has described the NDC as a more secure political platform ahead of the 2027 elections, pointing to ongoing crises within the ADC. In an interview, the movement’s spokesperson, Habeeb Saleh Mohammed, explained that unresolved legal issues within the ADC influenced their decision. He noted that the party is currently entangled in multiple court cases, some of which may extend to higher courts such as the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court. Given the limited time before the elections, he expressed doubts about the party’s ability to resolve these disputes promptly. He also revealed that the ADC is facing additional legal threats, including a case seeking its deregistration by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), as well as challenges to its leadership legitimacy. Due to these uncertainties, the movement believes it is necessary to align with a more stable platform that can effectively compete in the elections. Mohammed further suggested that a joint presidential ticket featuring Obi and Kwankwaso could foster national unity and fairness. He argued that voters in the North are capable of making rational decisions based on competence rather than regional considerations. He also reaffirmed the loyalty of Kwankwasiyya members to their leader, emphasizing their trust in his judgment and political direction. Highlighting Kwankwaso’s past influence, he referenced his role in strengthening the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), particularly in states like Kano, Bauchi, and Taraba. The movement, he added, remains focused on selecting a platform that is less likely to face disruption before the elections. He also pointed out that the NDC is still in its formative stage, with its leadership structure gradually taking shape. Concerns Over APC’s Influence Addressing concerns about potential interference from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Mohammed suggested that the party may not have sufficient time to destabilize emerging opposition platforms. He explained that the current political timeline requires parties to focus on key electoral obligations, such as submitting membership lists and preparing for primaries. As a result, the APC may be preoccupied with its own internal processes. According to him, these responsibilities could limit the ruling party’s ability to interfere with opposition movements. Criticism from Political Analysts Public affairs analyst Mahdi Shehu has criticized the recent political developments, warning that the alliance may not necessarily translate into electoral success. He argued that the frequent movement of Obi and Kwankwaso across different political platforms could indicate an overestimation of their popularity. Shehu also noted that the political dynamics that shaped the 2023 elections have significantly changed, suggesting that past performance may not guarantee future success. According to him, the ongoing realignments may be driven more by the search for political relevance and bargaining power than by a genuine effort to build a formidable opposition. He warned that such a strategy could backfire if other opposition groups decide to align with the APC instead. Shehu emphasized that unity among opposition leaders remains the most effective strategy for defeating the ruling party, cautioning that division could weaken their chances. Mixed Reactions Across Northern Nigeria Reactions from residents across Northern Nigeria have been varied. While some see the alliance as a strong alternative to the current government, others remain skeptical. A Kano resident, Lukman Shuaibu, expressed unwavering support for Kwankwaso, stating that his political approach prioritizes grassroots development. He affirmed his loyalty regardless of the party Kwankwaso chooses to join. Similarly, another resident, Naziru Dalhatu, described a potential Obi-Kwankwaso ticket as a symbol of national unity rather than regional representation. He argued that the alliance could appeal to voters across the country. Dalhatu also suggested that the current economic and political challenges facing Nigeria could make it easier for a credible opposition alliance to defeat the ruling government. However, not all reactions have been positive. A youth from Jigawa, Muhammad Rabiu Musa, questioned the credibility of the alliance, asking what new strategies it would bring to governance. He expressed concerns about the absence of a clear policy direction and implementation plan, arguing that the alliance has yet to demonstrate how it would address Nigeria’s pressing challenges. Musa also raised concerns about identity politics, noting that religious and ethnic considerations could influence voter behavior in Northern Nigeria. Conclusion The emergence of a joint NDC ticket involving Peter Obi and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso has introduced a new dimension to Nigeria’s political landscape ahead of 2027.
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A prominent figure within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State, Ambassador Olufemi Oguntoyinbo, has called on the party’s newly constituted leadership to take decisive steps toward addressing the growing economic and social difficulties faced by Nigerians. His appeal comes amid increasing concerns over the policies and governance style of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), which many citizens believe have contributed to widespread hardship. Oguntoyinbo made this known in a statement released in Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State. He specifically urged members of the PDP’s National Caretaker Committee, under the leadership of Tanimu Turaki, to focus on restoring hope and delivering solutions that will ease the burden on Nigerians. Recent developments within the PDP indicate a renewed effort to reposition the party ahead of future elections. The party’s Board of Trustees (BoT) recently endorsed the formation of a 13-member Caretaker Committee. This decision followed deliberations at the party’s 103rd National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting, which took place in Abuja. The move is widely seen as a strategic attempt to strengthen internal structures and improve cohesion within the party. Reacting to this development, Oguntoyinbo emphasized the importance of unity within the PDP, especially following the recent judgment by the Supreme Court of Nigeria, which has helped stabilize the party’s internal dynamics. He encouraged the committee members, including the National Secretary, Ambassador Taofeek Arapaja, to build on this unity and work collectively toward achieving electoral success. According to him, the responsibility before the committee is enormous and requires dedication, strategic planning, and a strong commitment to the welfare of Nigerians. He expressed optimism that with proper guidance and teamwork, the party could regain public trust and position itself as a credible alternative capable of addressing the nation’s pressing challenges. Oguntoyinbo further stressed that the PDP remains a national platform with the capacity to lead Nigeria toward recovery and stability. He noted that millions of citizens are looking up to the party for relief from the economic strain and governance issues currently affecting the country. As such, he urged the leadership not to fall short of expectations but to deliver results that reflect the aspirations of the people. He concluded by reiterating the need for the party to remain focused, united, and committed to its goals, particularly as the next general elections approach. By doing so, he believes the PDP can secure victory and play a pivotal role in reshaping Nigeria’s future.
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The vice-presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 elections, Yusuf Datti Baba-Ahmed, has expressed reservations about the possibility of northern political unity behind a joint ticket involving Peter Obi and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso. Speaking on the evolving structure of opposition coalitions, he explained that he intentionally refrains from mentioning specific individuals in ongoing political conversations. However, he emphasized that regional considerations remain a decisive factor in Nigeria’s electoral outcomes. According to him, it is unlikely that the North would collectively support an Obi–Kwankwaso alliance. He described this as a personal assessment while maintaining that he holds mutual respect and cordial relationships with major political stakeholders. Strategic Engagement and Early Planning Reflecting on past interactions, Baba-Ahmed recalled meeting Peter Obi in January 2024 at the John Wilson Hotel. During that discussion, he reportedly advised Obi to broaden his political strategy by engaging influential figures such as Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso and Nasir El-Rufai. He stressed that long-term planning is essential for political success, noting that preparation for future elections should begin well in advance. In his view, any political movement that fails to strategize early may struggle to remain relevant in subsequent election cycles. Baba-Ahmed further suggested that some of the current alignments among opposition leaders could have stemmed from earlier consultations, although he questioned their long-term viability. Concerns Over Political Consistency The Labour Party chieftain also highlighted concerns about inconsistencies in political alliances. He questioned why certain politicians who did not support particular candidates in previous elections are now forming new alignments. This shift, he implied, raises questions about ideological consistency and the reliability of political partnerships. By asking what changed between 2022 and 2023, he pointed to a pattern of evolving loyalties within Nigeria’s political system. Generational Shift and Internal Contradictions Addressing Nigeria’s demographic changes, Baba-Ahmed acknowledged the growing demand for a younger generation of leaders. However, he cautioned that contradictions within political tickets could undermine this aspiration. He observed that while there is a push for fresh leadership, some alliances may still include figures with significantly longer political histories, potentially creating imbalances in perception and leadership dynamics. Regional Influence and Power Balance Baba-Ahmed also examined the role of regional dominance in shaping political leadership. Speaking on Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, he described the former governor’s strong influence within his political base. He noted that such influence could raise questions about leadership hierarchy within a joint ticket, particularly regarding who would ultimately assume the presidency. According to him, ambition, political strength, and regional backing are critical factors that must be carefully balanced. Challenges of Opposition Collaboration While acknowledging that opposition alliances are theoretically achievable, Baba-Ahmed emphasized the practical difficulties involved. Historical voting trends, internal party structures, and competing interests often make such collaborations difficult to sustain. He concluded by stressing the importance of consistency in political organization and long-term strategy, noting that these elements will play a key role as opposition figures continue to reposition for future elections in Nigeria.
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Manchester United legend Gary Neville has identified a crucial fixture that could pose a serious threat to Arsenal’s Premier League title ambitions this season. Arsenal strengthened their grip at the summit of the table after delivering a commanding 3-0 win against Fulham on Saturday. The result extended their lead to six points, reinforcing their position as strong contenders for the league crown. The Gunners started brightly at the Emirates Stadium, with Viktor Gyokeres opening the scoring early in the match. Bukayo Saka soon doubled the advantage, showcasing Arsenal’s attacking sharpness. Just before the halftime whistle, Gyokeres found the back of the net once again, giving Mikel Arteta’s side a comfortable three-goal cushion heading into the break. Despite their dominance, Arsenal could not add to their tally in the second half. While the victory was convincing, the inability to further improve their goal difference may raise minor concerns, especially in a tight title race. Nonetheless, the result increases pressure on defending champions Manchester City, who are closely chasing at the top. Manchester City still holds a significant advantage with two outstanding fixtures. Their immediate challenge comes in the form of an away clash against Everton, a match that could influence the title race dynamics. Neville expects Pep Guardiola’s men to secure maximum points from that encounter, potentially reducing Arsenal’s lead. Should Manchester City close the gap, focus will quickly shift to Arsenal’s upcoming London derby against West Ham United. Although there is a massive gap between both sides in terms of league position and points, recent performances suggest West Ham are far from pushovers. Currently, Arsenal sits comfortably above West Ham by a wide margin, but the Hammers have shown noticeable improvement in recent weeks as they continue their fight to remain competitive. This resurgence makes the fixture far more unpredictable than the standings might suggest. Speaking on his Sky Sports podcast, Neville shared his thoughts on Arsenal’s recent performance and potential vulnerabilities. He suggested that Arteta might feel his team missed an opportunity to score more goals against Fulham, which could prove costly later in the season. Neville emphasized that while the win was satisfying, Arsenal must remain clinical in front of goal and avoid complacency. According to him, maintaining intensity and taking chances efficiently will be critical in the final stretch of the campaign. He also expressed confidence in Manchester City’s ability to defeat Everton, noting that any dropped points in that fixture would be highly surprising. However, he pointed out that Arsenal’s real challenge lies elsewhere. Neville singled out the away fixture against West Ham as the most likely scenario where Arsenal could lose points. Given West Ham’s determination to secure crucial results, he believes this encounter could be particularly demanding for the league leaders. As the title race intensifies, every match carries significant weight. Arsenal must remain focused, disciplined, and ruthless if they hope to maintain their advantage and secure the Premier League trophy.
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Former Liverpool FC defender Jamie Carragher has suggested that the outcome of this season’s Premier League title race may ultimately be determined by goal difference, with Manchester City likely to come out on top. Carragher praised Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal FC following their emphatic 3–0 victory over Fulham FC. He noted that the performance not only demonstrated quality but also significantly increased the pressure on Manchester City ahead of their trip to Merseyside, where they were scheduled to face Everton FC. Speaking during coverage on Sky Sports, Carragher described Arsenal’s display as one of their strongest in recent weeks. He even suggested it may have been their most convincing outing since their win over Tottenham Hotspur in the North London derby. He acknowledged that Fulham’s performance contributed to the result but emphasized that Arsenal looked sharp, energetic, and purposeful. According to him, boosting their goal difference in such a dominant win could prove decisive in the context of the title race. Carragher also pointed out a noticeable shift in Arsenal’s mentality. Unlike previous matches where signs of fatigue or nervous tension were evident, this time they appeared composed and confident throughout. However, he admitted that Fulham’s underwhelming display may have played a role in making Arsenal look more comfortable. Looking ahead, Carragher stressed that the situation has now intensified the pressure on Manchester City, who were facing a demanding away fixture against Everton. While he expects City to secure victory, he warned that simply winning matches might not be enough in the final stretch of the season. In his view, the title could ultimately be decided by goal difference, highlighting just how narrow the margins have become at the top of the table. After their clash with West Ham United, Arsenal’s remaining fixtures include matches against relegated Burnley FC and Crystal Palace. Meanwhile, Manchester City’s run-in appears more demanding, with upcoming games against Brentford FC, Crystal Palace, AFC Bournemouth, and Aston Villa as they aim to secure what would be their seventh league title since 2018. With both sides pushing relentlessly, the Premier League crown may come down to the smallest of details—where every goal scored or conceded could define the champion.
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Popular figures in Nigeria’s entertainment scene are once again stirring conversation, this time with a bold and unexpected proposal that blends celebrity culture with competitive sport. Eniola Badmus has publicly called out fellow Nollywood star Funke Akindele for a celebrity boxing match, sparking reactions across social media platforms. The challenge surfaced shortly after a high-profile bout involving Carter Efe and Portable captured widespread attention. In that contest, Carter Efe secured victory and walked away with a prize reportedly worth ₦50 million, further fueling interest in celebrity boxing events within the country. The aftermath of the match also drew notable attention from influential personalities. Lagos socialite Emeka Okonkwo celebrated Carter Efe’s win with a generous monetary gift, reinforcing the growing connection between entertainment, wealth, and spectacle. Earlier, music executive Soso Soberekon had already contributed significant financial backing to both fighters ahead of their match, highlighting the increasing commercial appeal of such events. Building on this momentum, Eniola Badmus took to Instagram in a now widely circulated post to propose a similar showdown. Addressing Funke Akindele directly, she urged her colleague to step into the boxing ring, emphasizing urgency and the financial opportunities tied to the idea. She also called on E-Money and Soso Soberekon to sponsor the proposed bout, suggesting that the combination of star power and financial backing could make the event a major spectacle. Her statement conveyed a clear message: the entertainment industry continues to evolve, and unconventional avenues like celebrity boxing are becoming viable platforms for engagement and revenue generation. By declaring that “money has to be made,” Badmus underscored the commercial motivation behind her challenge, aligning with a broader trend where celebrities leverage influence to explore new income streams. The proposed clash, while yet to receive a response from Funke Akindele, has already generated buzz among fans and followers, many of whom are eager to see whether the idea will materialize into an actual event. As celebrity boxing gains traction globally, Nigeria’s entertainment industry appears to be embracing the trend, merging drama, competition, and financial incentives into a single, captivating experience.
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Governor Inuwa Yahaya has firmly positioned his preferred successor ahead of the 2027 political cycle in Gombe State, effectively reshaping the state’s political landscape. At a recent stakeholders’ gathering, the governor endorsed Jamilu Isyaku Gwamna as the All Progressives Congress (APC) consensus candidate for the governorship race, while simultaneously shutting down the possibility of Senator Danjuma Goje securing another Senate ticket. This development marks a significant turning point in the long-standing rivalry between Inuwa Yahaya and Danjuma Goje, a political tension that has persisted since the aftermath of the 2023 general elections. Goje, who has served four terms in the Senate and was seeking re-election, had recently joined a delegation of lawmakers to meet with President Bola Tinubu in a bid to secure automatic tickets for incumbents. However, the request did not receive approval, further weakening his chances within the party structure. In a coordinated move, the APC also unveiled a list of consensus candidates for other key positions across the state. Mohammed Ahmadu Deba has been selected for Gombe Central Senatorial District, while Jerry Damara is slated for Gombe South. Governor Inuwa Yahaya himself is positioned to contest the Gombe North Senate seat, signaling his transition from the executive arm to the legislature. For the House of Representatives, the party has lined up several candidates across constituencies. These include Usman Bello Kumo for Akko, Inuwa Garba for Yamaltu/Deba, Ali Isa for Balanga/Billiri, Fatima Binta Bello for Kaltungo/Shongom, Saddam Bello for Gombe/Kwami/Funakaye, and Jamilu Shabewa for Dukku/Nafada. The coordinated selection reflects a strategic effort by the party to consolidate influence and maintain internal cohesion ahead of the elections. Despite the structured consensus arrangement, not all party figures are aligned with the decision. Sheikh Isa Pantami, a former minister and one-time governorship aspirant, has openly rejected the consensus outcome, introducing an element of uncertainty and signaling possible internal dissent. As the APC prepares to rally behind its selected candidates, more reactions are expected from key stakeholders and political actors within the state. The unfolding situation underscores the dynamic and often contentious nature of party politics in Gombe, as alliances shift and ambitions collide in the lead-up to 2027.
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The Lagos State Government has taken decisive enforcement action by shutting down no fewer than 12 establishments, including hotels, shopping centers, and residential complexes, due to ongoing violations of lift and elevator safety standards. These affected properties are situated in high-traffic locations such as Admiralty Way in Lekki Phase 1 and various parts of Ikeja, both known for commercial and residential activity. Facilities sealed during the operation include The Heritage/AXA building located on Awolowo Road in Ikeja, alongside Mosesola House, Debour House, and Bosch House on Soji Adepegba Close. Other impacted properties along Admiralty Way in Lekki include Bridge View, Elizabeth Court, 10Bou Towers, Brion Court, Footprints Apartments, Lekki Luxury Flats, and Brasas Mall. The enforcement exercise, which took place last Thursday, was spearheaded by the Lagos State Safety Commission as part of its mandate to ensure public safety compliance across the state. In an official statement released on Sunday, the commission disclosed that the closures were a direct result of repeated non-compliance by property owners and facility managers with established elevator safety regulations. According to the commission, the buildings in question failed to properly register their lift systems with the state government. This registration is essential for scheduled inspections, routine maintenance, and overall safety monitoring. Speaking during the enforcement operation, the Chief Scientific Officer of the commission, Sovi Tijani, who represented the Director-General, Lanre Mojola, explained that the action became unavoidable due to the persistent disregard for regulatory instructions. He highlighted that registering elevators is a critical requirement that allows authorities to conduct periodic checks and ensure that all systems meet safety standards for users in both residential and commercial environments. Tijani further revealed that several warnings and official notices had been issued to the affected facilities prior to the crackdown. However, many operators failed to respond within the given timeframe. He stated that while some property managers ignored the notifications, others went as far as refusing to accept official correspondence or obstructing enforcement officers during the process. The commission stressed that enforcement activities would continue as part of its broader effort to protect lives and property. It warned that poorly maintained elevators pose significant dangers, including mechanical failures and potential accidents. Building owners and facility managers across Lagos State have been strongly advised to comply with all safety regulations by registering their lift systems and ensuring consistent maintenance in accordance with government standards. The commission reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing compliance and maintaining a secure environment, noting that any defaulters would continue to face strict penalties until all safety requirements are fulfilled.
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Manchester United edged closer to securing a place in Europe’s elite competition after earning a hard-fought 2–1 victory over Brentford on Monday night. The result builds on their narrow 1–0 triumph against Chelsea in the previous fixture, a win that helped them create separation from rivals battling for a top-five finish. With momentum clearly on their side, the team continued to show composure under pressure. Facing the Bees, United opened the scoring through a powerful aerial effort from Casemiro, whose header gave them an early advantage. They extended their lead before halftime when Benjamin Šeško found the net, putting the visitors firmly in control of proceedings. For much of the match, it appeared destined to end comfortably at 2–0, with Michael Carrick’s side dictating the tempo and limiting opposition chances. However, late in the game, Mathias Jensen produced a well-placed strike into the bottom corner, reducing the deficit and adding tension to the closing moments. Despite the late goal, Manchester United held on to secure all three points. They remain third in the table with 51 points, maintaining a three-point cushion over Liverpool, whom they are set to face in a crucial upcoming encounter.
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A Senator representing the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Ireti Kingibe, has raised serious concerns regarding the integrity of the Electoral Act, stating that the document has been significantly altered from its original version. Speaking on Monday during an appearance on Arise Television’s Prime Time program, Kingibe explained that the version currently in circulation does not reflect what was initially drafted and agreed upon during the reform process. According to her, she actively participated as a member of the Committee for Electoral Reforms, where extensive efforts were made over a two-year period to produce a comprehensive and credible document. She emphasized that the committee’s work involved collaboration across multiple stakeholders, including both chambers of the National Assembly, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and various civil society organizations. Kingibe pointed out that the final document presented differs significantly from what was originally developed. She stressed that several provisions now included were not part of the agreed draft, raising questions about how those changes were introduced. She further highlighted concerns about election security protocols, particularly regarding ballot papers. Drawing from past electoral processes, she noted that Nigerian elections have traditionally incorporated strict security features on ballot papers to prevent unauthorized duplication or misuse. She expressed surprise at suggestions implying that such safeguards were absent, insisting that such a scenario had never occurred in previous elections. The lawmaker recounted a conversation in which she challenged claims about certain provisions, stating that she possesses documentation that contradicts those assertions. She maintained that if certain elements are now present in the Act, they were not part of the committee’s original work. Reinforcing the depth of the reform process, Kingibe explained that the committee’s work was not limited to a single legislative body. Instead, it involved a bicameral approach, bringing together both the Senate and the House of Representatives in joint deliberations. Additionally, input from INEC and civil society groups ensured that the resulting document was designed to promote transparency, credibility, and fairness in elections. Despite these efforts, she concluded that the final outcome deviated drastically from what had been collectively agreed upon. In her view, the core structure and intent of the Electoral Act were fundamentally altered, effectively reversing key aspects of the original reform framework.
