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The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has clarified that his support for the 2027 re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu does not extend to other All Progressives Congress (APC) candidates contesting governorship and legislative elections.


The minister made the clarification in a statement on Tuesday by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka.


Wike, in the statement, said he never promised that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) would not field candidates for governorship, National Assembly and State House of Assembly elections in 2027.


Recalls that the Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum and Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, on Monday night said governors elected on the platform of the APC would not support or endorse any presidential candidate outside the ruling party ahead of the 2027 general elections.


Uzodimma made the position known after a meeting of APC governors in Abuja, declaring that the forum had unanimously resolved against participating in any political alliance or arrangement capable of weakening the party or undermining the reelection of President Tinubu.


According to the Imo governor, the APC governors are also opposed to any arrangement that could adversely affect candidates of the party at any level.


“No arrangement that creates confusion, divided loyalty, or competing interests within the party will be entertained,” he said.


However, reacting to the APC governors’ position, Wike said his position remained clear: he would mobilise support for Tinubu’s re-election, while political parties and politicians would be free to contest elections in their respective states.


He also dismissed suggestions that the “rainbow coalition” being promoted in support of Tinubu was an APC arrangement.


According to him, the coalition is a platform for politicians across different political parties who believe that Tinubu has performed well and deserves a second term.


Wike said, “What I said and stand for is that I will mobilise support for the re-election of the President. I never promised anyone that PDP will not field candidates to contest governorship, National Assembly and States House of Assembly elections.”


He added, “Most importantly, rainbow coalition has nothing to do with the APC. Rather, it is own way of mobilising support accross political parties for Mr President, who has done well to deserve a second term.


The minister said he did not meet with the APC before he and other members of the G5 supported Tinubu during the 2023 presidential election.


He maintained that his support in 2027 would similarly be directed at the President and not automatically extend to other APC candidates.


Wike also said he would not be responsible for helping politicians win elections in their respective states, stressing that political contests at the state level should be handled by those involved.


He said, “Politics is local, and those having problems in their States should resolve them instead of using the reelection of the President to whip up sentiments.”


The FCT minister argued that the outcome of the 2023 elections demonstrated that voters could support different parties in presidential and legislative elections.


He cited Imo State, where the APC won two senatorial seats in 2023 despite receiving less than 15 percent of the presidential votes in the state.


Wike asked, “In Imo State, under Governor Hope Uzodinma, how did APC win two senate seats in 2023, in an election held the same day with that of the President and APC had less than 15 percent in the presidential election? Was it rainbow coalition? Were the voters confused?”


He also referenced the results in Ebonyi, Abia and Enugu States, where the APC won National Assembly seats despite Tinubu securing less than 10 percent of the presidential votes in some of those states.


“Was it a rainbow coalition that also made the APC win National Assembly elections in Ebonyi, Abia and Enugu States where the President did not have ten percent of the votes?” he asked.


According to Wike, the same pattern could occur in 2027, with voters supporting Tinubu for president while choosing candidates from other parties in state and legislative elections.


“If in 2023, the voters in Imo, Abia, Enugu and Ebonyi voted APC in the Senatorial election and voted another party in the presidential election, they won’t be confused in 2027 provided we all support the president genuinely this time?” he said.


Wike urged political stakeholders to prioritise the presidential election before turning their attention to state-level contests.


He said, “After the President must have been reelected, we can all go and face elections in our states.”


The minister also dismissed the notion that political support for Tinubu should translate into automatic support for every APC candidate.


He said political actors should focus on genuinely mobilising voters for the President rather than using his re-election bid to settle political disputes in their respective states.


Wike said the current political arrangement was different from simply moving politicians from one political party to another, insisting that the rainbow coalition was intended to bring together supporters of Tinubu from across party lines.


He further argued that politics was no longer about relying on political calculations or alliances to produce electoral victories, but about building genuine support from polling units.


“The Minister said politics is no longer about coming from fourth position to be governor; it is about genuinely mobilising support and winning elections from the polling units,” the statement said.


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The All Progressives Congress (APC)  Governors’ Forum has rejected any political arrangement that could weaken the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.


According to the governors, they would not support alliances that could affect the chances of APC candidates or President Bola Tinubu’s bid for a second term.


The position is seen as a direct setback to the political activities surrounding the “Rainbow Coalition” associated with Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike.


Wike, a former Rivers State governor and prominent member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has been mobilising politicians across party lines in support of Tinubu’s re-election.


The minister has repeatedly argued that the coalition is not designed to work against the President or the APC.


Instead, he has presented it as a broader political movement that would bring together politicians from different parties to secure Tinubu’s victory in 2027.


But the APC governors have drawn a line between supporting Tinubu and supporting candidates who may contest against APC candidates in other elections.


The governors reached their position after a closed-door meeting in Abuja on Monday.


Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum and Imo State  Governor, Hope Uzodimma, announced the resolution after the meeting.


He said the governors remained committed to the APC and would not participate in any political arrangement that could create divided loyalty within the party.


“The APC governors forum unanimously resolved that its members will not participate in, support, or endorse any alliance or political arrangement capable of undermining the reelection of Mr President, weakening the APC, or adversely affecting any candidate of the party at all levels,” Uzodimma said.

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Headline inflation rate fell by 0.04 percent to 15.39 percent in August from 15.43 percent in July 2026.


The National Bureau of Statistics, NBS, disclosed this Tuesday in its Consumer Price Index, CPI, report for August 2026.


NBS said: “In August 2026, the Headline inflation rate stood at 15.39%, down from 15.43% in July 2026 and stood at 23.14% in the same month of the preceding year (August 2025).


“Looking at the movement, the August 2026 Headline inflation rate showed a decrease of 0.04% compared to the July 2026 Headline inflation rate.


“On a month-on-month basis, the Headline inflation rate in August 2026 was 0.71%, which was 0.86% lower than the rate recorded in July 2026 (1.57%).


“This means that in August 2026, the rate of increase in the average price level was lower than the rate of increase in the average price level in July 2026.”


Details later…


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Iweh Pascal Odinaka, the Nigerian dancer popularly known as Poco Lee, will appear before the Snaresbrook Crown Court in the United Kingdom on February 8, 2027, for a plea hearing.


The date was fixed after his scheduled appearance on Tuesday could not proceed because the charge sheet was unavailable.


Poco Lee had been due in court on September 15 for a plea and trial preparation hearing on the charges against him.


He, however, did not enter a plea because the charge sheet was not available.


Although the dancer was not present, the courtroom was reportedly filled with Nigerians who came to observe the proceedings, with some forced to wait outside.


The court has now set February 8, 2027, for the plea hearing, while the trial is scheduled to begin on March 8, 2027. It had earlier confirmed that the dancer was granted bail on September 11.


Poco Lee faces charges of attempted rape, two counts of rape and two counts of assault by penetration. He was previously remanded in custody following his arrest in the UK over the allegations.


In a recent Instagram live session with social media personality VeryDarkMan, Poco Lee maintained that he did not commit the alleged sexual offences.


He also said music star Burna Boy would not have supported him if he were guilty.


“If I did what someone said I did, I would say I am suffering my sins. As I did not do anything, my mind is as pure as anything. No one would want to attach themselves to something like that. And for Burna Boy and Jago to stand for me,” he said.


“I am a jolly good fellow. Even when I did not do anything.”


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Some unions under the auspices of the Joint Workers Council of the Federal Ministry of Education have rejected the suspension of industrial action announced by the Trade Union Congress (TUC).


The unions also demanded that the concession of King’s College, Lagos, must be reversed.


The Chairman of the Joint Council, Mr Abraham Onuche, stated this while addressing journalists during a protest by the unions at the ministry’s headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday.


Onuche said the workers remained committed to their demand for the immediate reversal of the Federal Government’s decision to concession the 35-year-old arrangement involving King’s College.


He said the unions would not recognise the suspension of the industrial action because the TUC was not directly involved in the protest or negotiations with the workers.


The chairman said the unions had been protesting for three days over the proposed concession, which they described as detrimental to public education.


He said the unions had barricaded the entrance to the ministry’s headquarters in Abuja to prevent officials and other workers from accessing the premises.


According to him, the action was necessary to draw attention to what the workers considered a critical threat to the future of Federal Unity Colleges.


Onuche said the unions were surprised that the TUC could meet with the Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, and subsequently announced the suspension of an action in which it had not participated.


“TUC never came here for one day to listen to us, our demands,” he said.


He questioned how the congress could suspend an action that it had not joined or discussed with the unions directly involved.


Onuche said the unions had formally written to the Minister of Education on July 6, requesting an opportunity to discuss their concerns.


He , however, said that the minister had yet to grant the unions an audience despite the seriousness of the issues raised.


The chairman said the lack of consultation had deepened the dispute between the ministry and the unions.


He maintained that the unions were demanding dialogue and consultation before any final decision was taken on the concession.


According to him, the workers were particularly concerned about the effect of the concession on teachers and other employees of King’s College.


Onuche also questioned the planned deployment of teachers who might be affected by the concession to other schools in Lagos.


He recalled that the Federal Government had approved a waiver for the employment of more than 3,000 Parent-Teacher Association staff.


“I want to thank President Bola Tinubu for giving the Federal Ministry of Education a waiver to employ more than 3,000 PTA staff,” he said.


He, however, asked what would happen to teachers displaced by the King’s College concession if new PTA workers were simultaneously being employed.


Onuche said the situation could create unnecessary uncertainty for teachers whose positions and future postings might be affected.


He said the unions were also worried about the wider implications of the concession for other Federal Unity Colleges across the country.


“Our demand now is that the minister should revoke that decision concerning King’s College and other schools,” he said.


According to him, allowing the concession of King’s College to proceed could encourage similar demands from old students’ associations of other Federal Unity Colleges.


He described such a development as a possible precedent that could affect the ownership and management of other public schools.


“If that King’s College goes, as we follow in law, that’s what they call precedent,” Onuche said.


He added that the government should carefully consider the long-term consequences of approving the concession before allowing the arrangement to proceed.


The chairman said the unions also had other grievances, including stagnation among education officers and challenges affecting staff welfare and administration.


He, however, said the unions had decided to concentrate their immediate efforts on securing the reversal of the King’s College concession.


Onuche said the protest would continue until the government reversed the decision and engaged the unions in meaningful consultations.


He warned that failure to address the issue could lead to the continued closure of the ministry’s headquarters and non-resumption in affected schools.


Also speaking, Mr Chigozie Ngadi, Chairman of the Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria (ASCSN), Federal Ministry of Education chapter, said the protest was aimed at protecting access to quality education.


Ngadi said the unions were particularly concerned about children from less privileged families who might be unable to afford education if access to King’s College became restricted.


He described King’s College as a national asset that should remain accessible to Nigerians irrespective of their economic background.


Ngadi alleged that police personnel had been deployed to the school, describing the development as an attempt to intimidate workers protesting against the concession.


“We are speaking for Nigerians. We are speaking for down-trodden Nigerians to have access to good education,” he said.


He said the unions were not opposed to partnerships capable of improving infrastructure and educational facilities in public schools.


Ngadi, however, stressed that any partnership should preserve public ownership and ensure that children from poor families continued to have access to quality education.


He urged the old students’ association of King’s College to contribute to the development of the institution without taking away opportunities from members of the wider society.


“The old boys association should give back to that society that made them what they are and not take from it,” he said.


Ngadi said the unions would continue to press for the reversal of the King’s College concession, adding that their other grievances would be addressed after the matter was resolved. (NAN)


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Peter Obi, presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), has asked the University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN) to release his academic records upon “legitimate request”.


In a Tuesday post on X, the former governor of Anambra said he was ready to subject himself to any level of scrutiny expected of anyone seeking the highest political office in the land.


Abayomi Arabambi, a former national publicity secretary of the Labour Party (LP), had sued UNN, the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and the West African Examination Council (WAEC) over their alleged refusal to release Obi’s credentials.


In three separate suits filed before a federal high court in Abuja, Arabambi alleged that Obi’s name varied across documents submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and educational authorities.


Arabambi said he had separately written to the three institutions to demand the release of Obi’s certificates, but his requests were denied.


Obi said he had no objection to the release of his academic records for public examination.


“I respectfully request that the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, within the limits permitted by law, make available, upon legitimate request, my academic certificates, records, and other official documents relating to my admission and studies at the University,” he wrote.


The former governor also directed other institutions he attended both within and outside Nigeria to release his records in “accordance with applicable laws and procedures”, noting that he believes in transparency and accountability, particularly for those seeking public office.


“As a presidential candidate seeking the trust of Nigerians to lead our country, I welcome legitimate public interest in my background, qualifications, and record,” he said.


“Those who seek to lead must be willing to demonstrate, through both their words and actions, that they have nothing to conceal from the people they aspire to serve.”


Obi advised other presidential candidates to make their educational qualifications and relevant records available for public scrutiny.


“Doing so should not be regarded as an inconvenience or an attack, but as an opportunity to strengthen public confidence, promote accountability, and rebuild the trust of Nigerians in those who seek to govern them,” Obi said.


“If we desire a Nigeria founded on transparency, integrity, accountability, and respect for institutions, those values must begin with those who seek to lead it.”


TheCable


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Architect Felix Arome has assumed office as the Director-General of the Frontline Alliance Network (FAN), a political support group with structures and membership across Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.


Arome, who previously served as National Secretary of the Relax Tinubu Is Fixing Nigeria Group, took over the leadership of FAN during a handover ceremony in Abuja, attended by members and stakeholders of the organisation.


The Frontline Alliance Network had earlier endorsed the presidential ambition of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections.


Speaking after assuming office, Arome thanked the founders of FAN for the confidence reposed in him, describing his appointment as both a responsibility and a call to strengthen the organisation’s existing structures.

He assured members across the country that his administration would support and strengthen the various FAN structures to make the group more formidable and better positioned ahead of the 2027 elections.


According to him, the focus would be on building a stronger grassroots presence and ensuring that the organisation’s structures are firmly established at the local government level.


Arome also pledged to work with political groups, individuals and organisations that share the aspiration of supporting President Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027.


He urged members to intensify efforts to consolidate their political structures at the grassroots, stressing that capacity and the ability to deliver would be the major considerations in assigning responsibilities within the organisation.

The new Director-General said positions and responsibilities would not be distributed based on sentiments, but on demonstrated commitment, competence and capacity to deliver results.


Arome further assured members that he would remain loyal to those who had worked to build FAN, promising that their efforts and sacrifices would not be forgotten.


He called on members to remain committed to the organisation’s objectives, saying that a united and well-structured grassroots movement would be critical to achieving the group’s political goals ahead of the 2027 general elections.





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In a remarkable show of community impact, the Skyewise Foundation, a non-governmental organisation, has extended its educational support to students of Government Secondary School, Gosa, a community along Airport Road, Lugbe, in the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), through its Back-to-School Project.


The initiative directly benefited over 2,000 students from JSS 1 to JSS 3, who received essential learning materials, including exercise books, pens, rulers and erasers, to support their studies and encourage effective learning.


Speaking on the significance of the project, the Founder of the Skyewise Foundation and CEO of Skyewise Group, Dr. Elvis Abuyere, said his personal experience of growing up without a silver spoon inspired his commitment to giving back to society.


According to him, the initiative was not merely about distributing educational materials but also about encouraging young people to believe in themselves and their dreams.

“This project is more than just a distribution of school items. It is about reminding our children that they matter, that their dreams are valid, and that the Skyewise Foundation is rooting for them to succeed and become useful to themselves and society,” he said.


Also speaking at the event, the Vice Principal of the school, Mr. Bala Titus, commended the foundation for its intervention, describing the gesture as an investment in the future of the students.


“Education remains the strongest weapon for change. What the Skywise Foundation has done today is not just an act of charity but an investment in the future of these students as a whole. We encourage more stakeholders to emulate this gesture.


“We thank the management of the Skyewise Foundation for remembering us. We do not take this rare act of kindness for granted,” he said.


Titus also appealed to the government to come to the aid of the school, noting that it lacked some basic facilities, including adequate chairs and tables for the students.

The foundation’s Brand Ambassador, Mr. Osazee Samuel Aikhionbare, popularly known as MC Papi, also urged the students to take their studies seriously, stressing that commitment to education remains essential to achieving success in their academic pursuits.


Other notable personalities who accompanied the foundation to the school for the exercise included Nigeria Info FM Abuja presenter, Emmanuel Olaoluwa Aduralere Abimbola, popularly known as El-Effizy, youth leaders in the FCT and other dignitaries.


For the past 10 years, the Skyewise Foundation has built a strong reputation for its interventions across the FCT and other parts of the country, with a focus on education, empowerment and community upliftment.

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The lone survivor of a deadly attack on a commercial bus in Plateau State has recounted how gunmen opened fire on passengers, killing nine people, including the driver.


The incident occurred on Sunday night at Dungus Junction in Kuru, Jos South Local Government Area of the state, as the vehicle was travelling towards Jos.


The survivor, Nasiru Garba, who worked as the conductor of the bus, said he escaped death by hiding inside the vehicle when the attackers began shooting.


Garba said the bus had stopped by the roadside to drop off five passengers before the driver stepped down to collect fares.


“We parked by the roadside and dropped off five passengers. After they alighted, the driver got down to collect the transport fare,” he said.


According to him, he was standing at the front of the vehicle when the driver returned and opened the door to get inside.


He said the attackers immediately opened fire on the passengers who had alighted and those still inside the bus.


“All the passengers that had already alighted, the remaining passengers in the bus, and the driver died,” Garba said.


He added that he immediately bent down inside the vehicle after hearing the gunshots as the attackers approached and opened the front door.


Garba described the incident as a terrible experience, saying the attackers searched the vehicle but did not discover him.


“They collected all the money with me and my phone that was being charged. They didn’t talk while carrying out the act and I didn’t look at their faces,” he said.


The conductor also revealed that he had only recently started working on the route, saying the attack occurred on his fourth day on the job.


Confirming the incident, spokesman for the Berom Youth Moulders, Rwang Tengwong, said the attack occurred at about 9:40pm.


Tengwong said the victims were passengers travelling to Jos when the attackers opened fire on the vehicle.


He said one of those killed was a member of Operation Rainbow, adding that several other passengers sustained gunshot injuries.


“It is a very sad development and we lament the loss of lives,” Tengwong said.


He added that some of the injured victims were taken to hospitals for treatment, but some reportedly died from their injuries.


A resident, Musa Dauda, also confirmed the attack, saying the commercial bus was later found riddled with bullets and stained with blood.


The Dungus Junction attack was one of several attacks reported in Plateau State on Sunday night.


Two people were reportedly killed at Vodni in the Pushit District of Mangu Local Government Area, while another two were killed at Tahoos in Riyom Local Government Area.


Four people were also reportedly injured in the Mangu attack and were receiving treatment at a hospital in Mangu town.


The Plateau State Government condemned the attacks, describing the killings in Mangu and the incident at Kuru as deeply disturbing.


In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Communication, Joyce Ramnap, the government said it was working with security agencies, traditional institutions, community leaders and other stakeholders to strengthen security across the state.


The government urged residents, particularly those in communities affected by insecurity, to remain vigilant and provide security agencies with credible and timely information that could help prevent further attacks and lead to the arrest of perpetrators.


It also appealed to residents to avoid reprisal attacks, warning that such actions could worsen the violence and undermine ongoing peace-building efforts.


The government reaffirmed its commitment to making peace a priority under Governor Caleb Mutfwang.


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At least 13 people were killed and several others injured in separate attacks by suspected terrorists on communities in Jos South, Mangu and Riyom Local Governments,Plateau State at the weekend.


Nine of the victims were passengers travelling to Jos when gunmen opened fire on their vehicle at Dungus Junction, Kuru, in Jos South LG , on Sunday night.


The other four victims were killed in separate attacks in Mangu and Riyom local governments   on Saturday.


National Publicity Secretary of the Berom Youth Moulders, Rwang Tengwong, who confirmed the Jos South attack to our correspondent in Jos yesterday, said the victims were travelling in a Jos-bound bus when the attackers opened fire at about 9:40 p.m.


He said several other passengers sustained gunshot wounds and were rushed to hospitals for treatment, adding that some of the injured later died.


According to him, a member of Plateau State’s internal security outfit, Operation Rainbow, was among those killed in the attack.


In Mangu, suspected terrorists reportedly attacked Vodni community in Pushit District on Saturday, killing two people and injuring four others.


The injured victims were taken to a hospital in Mangu town for treatment.


Two other people were also reportedly killed in a separate attack at Tahoos in Riyom LG around the same period.


Plateau State Commissioner for Information and Communication, Joyce Ramnap, confirmed the attacks, saying the state government received the reports of the killings with “grave concern.”


She condemned the attacks in Mangu and the killings at Dungus Junction in Jos South, describing the incidents as deeply disturbing.


“These incidents are deeply disturbing, especially at a time when the State Government, in collaboration with security agencies, traditional institutions, community leaders and other stakeholders, has continued to strengthen the peace and security architecture of the state through sustained dialogue, intelligence sharing, community engagement and other proactive measures,” she said.


Ramnap urged residents, particularly those in communities affected by insecurity, to remain vigilant and provide security agencies with credible and timely information that could help prevent further attacks and lead to the arrest of the perpetrators.


She also cautioned residents against reprisal attacks, warning that such actions could escalate the violence and undermine ongoing peace-building efforts.


“The protection of lives and property is fundamental to the administration’s vision of rebuilding trust, restoring confidence and creating an environment where citizens can live, farm, travel, invest and pursue their livelihoods without fear,” she said.


The commissioner commiserated with the families of the victims and wished those injured a speedy recovery.


She assured affected communities that the state government would continue to work with security agencies and other stakeholders to strengthen security and protect lives and property across the state.


TheSun


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Senator Shehu Buba Umar, representing Bauchi South Senatorial District, has voluntarily submitted himself to security agencies for investigation over allegations linking him to banditry, terrorism financing, kidnapping and other violent crimes.


Buba disclosed this on Tuesday at a press conference in Bauchi, where he said he was ready to cooperate fully with investigators to establish the facts surrounding the allegations.


The senator said his decision followed the repeated circulation of the claims, which he described as serious allegations that should be subjected to professional investigation rather than political debate.


According to Buba, his previous responsibilities in the National Assembly exposed him to sensitive national security and intelligence matters, during which he worked with the military, intelligence agencies and other security institutions to combat banditry, terrorism, kidnapping and other criminal activities.


He said some of those engagements were confidential because of their national security implications, but alleged that legitimate security-related activities had been distorted to suggest that he was associated with criminal elements.


“I have nothing to hide nor fear. It is for this reason that through his legal team led by former President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Chief Yakubu Maikyau, SAN, I have voluntarily submitted myself to the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Police Force and the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) for a comprehensive investigation into the allegations levelled against me.


“I will not ask Nigerians simply to take my word for it. That is precisely why I have submitted myself to the relevant security agencies. Let the professionals investigate,” he said.


Buba recalled that he petitioned the Nigeria Police Force in September 2025 over publications containing the allegations, which subsequently resulted in criminal proceedings before the Federal High Court in Abuja.


He added that his legal team had also commenced proceedings against an individual whom it believed was responsible for some of the allegations, with the matter reportedly referred for Interpol intervention.


However, the senator said pursuing the matter through the courts alone was no longer sufficient because the allegations concerned national security.


He therefore called on the DSS, Police, DIA and other relevant institutions to thoroughly investigate the claims and determine whether there was any evidence supporting them.


Buba also appealed to his supporters to remain calm and refrain from insults, threats, violence or retaliation, stressing that the allegations should be addressed through lawful channels.


He challenged anyone with evidence against him to submit it to the appropriate authorities for investigation.


“If there is evidence against me, let it be produced. If there is none, those who have deliberately manufactured and circulated these allegations should equally be held accountable under the law,” Buba said.


The lawmaker reaffirmed his commitment to peace, security, justice and service to the people of Bauchi State and Nigeria.


Buba said he was prepared to accept the outcome of any credible investigation conducted on the basis of facts and evidence.


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Rilwan Akiolu, the Oba of Lagos, has declared his support for President Bola Tinubu’s bid for a second term, saying there will be no vacancy in Aso Rock for the next four or five years.


Akiolu spoke when the presidential campaign council (PCC) of the All Progressives Congress (APC), led by its director-general, Abdulaziz Yari, paid him a courtesy visit at his palace in Lagos.


“For the next four or five years, there is no vacancy in Aso Rock,” the monarch said.


The Oba urged politicians to ensure that the 2027 general election is peaceful and conducted in a manner that benefits Nigerians.


He also advised members of the APC campaign council to be honest in their dealings and avoid actions capable of undermining peace and stability in the country.


Akiolu cautioned politicians against adopting the Machiavellian principle that “the end justifies the means” in pursuing electoral victory.


Speaking earlier, Yari said the delegation visited the monarch to seek his blessing, prayers and advice ahead of the council’s nationwide campaign activities.


He said the council had earlier visited the Sokoto caliphate before proceeding to Lagos.


Yari appealed for continued support for Tinubu, saying the council believes the president deserves another term to consolidate what he described as the gains of his administration.


He cited the administration’s efforts to address economic challenges, insecurity and infrastructure development as reasons for the council’s support.


Yari acknowledged the economic difficulties facing Nigerians but said some indicators showed improvement, particularly in the availability of funds and efforts to stabilise the economy.


On insecurity, the former governor of Zamfara said Tinubu had continued to provide support and equipment for the military and police.


He also recalled that Tinubu had supported the emergence of the late former President Muhammadu Buhari because of the security challenges facing the country at the time.


Yari said the council’s support for Tinubu is not merely political reciprocity but is based on its belief that the president should be allowed to continue implementing his plans for the country.


He added that members of the council from the north would work to secure the region’s support for Tinubu’s re-election.


Receiving the delegation, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, governor of Lagos, described the visit as significant, noting that the council had chosen to seek the Oba’s royal blessing immediately after its engagement in Sokoto.


Sanwo-Olu said the delegation comprised eminent Nigerians who had served in various capacities, including former governors, a former senate president, former speakers and serving governors.


He described Lagos as a key political centre and the country’s commercial and economic nerve centre, saying the visit demonstrated the importance the APC attached to the traditional institution.


The event was attended by APC leaders and stakeholders in Lagos, including local government chairmen, members of the National Assembly and state lawmakers.


TheCable


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Aliko Dangote, the founder of Dangote Group and president of Dangote refinery, is now worth $51.3 billion.


According to Forbes’ ‘Real Time Billionaires List,’ Dangote’s net worth jumped 63.37 percent, from the $31.4 billion he was valued at as of Sunday to $51.3 billion on Monday.


Following the $19.9 billion increase in his net worth, Dangote’s position on the global billionaires list rose from 76th to 36th.


Dangote’s wealth surged amid the initial public offering (IPO) of Dangote refinery, a company valued at $50 billion or over N60 trillion (based on the September 4 exchange rate).


The company commenced the IPO on Monday via the Nigerian Exchange (NGX), where it is planning to raise N2.15 trillion to support its $40 billion expansion objective, including raising production capacity from 650,000 barrels per day to 1.4 million barrels per day.


Speaking during the company’s ‘Fact Behind The List’ programme, the businessman said Dangote refinery’s market valuation should reach at least $350 billion by 2030.


During the IPO, which closes on October 13, investors will have access to over 4.1 billion ordinary shares of Dangote refinery at N525 each, with a minimum subscription of 10 shares at N5,250.


Dangote’s $51.3 billion net worth is drawn from several industries, as he holds investments in cement, sugar, banking, and oil and gas companies.


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SBE Atelier, a new luxury fragrance brand, has officially launched in Abuja, introducing a collection of distinctive perfumes created for people who appreciate presence, elegance, and memorable scent experiences.


The launch brought together guests, supporters, professionals, and fragrance lovers for an evening of style, celebration, and discovery.


Founded with a vision to create fragrances that go beyond simply smelling good, SBE Atelier is focused on quality, character, longevity, and individuality.

The collection which is owned by Shantee Dauda Masaha, CEO of ShanteeBillz, features a range of signature scents including Drex, Vexor, Amber Noir, Golden Santal, Velvet Noir, Oud Sovereign, Sphinx, Silky Desire, Milky Veil, Velvet Santal, Amber Éclat, Timber Sovereign, and Golden Santal Supreme.


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Solomon Dalung, former minister of sports, says if President Bola Tinubu wins the 2027 presidential election, he will not blame it on the inability of the opposition’s coalition to unite.


Dalung spoke during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today aired on Monday.


The former minister said he would accept Tinubu’s victory as the decision of Nigerians if the president is re-elected in 2027.


“I will accept it as a verdict of Nigerians. It will mean that we are not on the same page with Nigerians as to the issues of the sovereignty of this country,” he said.


“I’m not going to blame it on the coalition, because the coalition is speaking on behalf of the Nigerian people, who have sovereignty, who have the power to determine who governs them.


“So, if they elect Bola Tinubu in 2027 as a democrat, I will accept it as a verdict of the people.”


Dalung’s comments come two weeks after six opposition parties proposed the establishment of a “government of national competence” that would operate for a single four-year transition term ahead of the 2027 general election.


The proposal was made at a summit of opposition political parties organised by G100 in Abuja.


The parties represented at the summit were the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Allied Peoples Movement (APM), Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) and Social Democratic Party (SDP).


Salihu Lukman, former vice-chairman (north-west) of the All Progressives Congress (APC), presented the proposal at the summit.


He said the proposed government would be anchored on four principles: competence, integrity, national inclusion and fair representation.


The opposition parties also proposed an enforceable transition charter to ensure that participating parties abide by the agreement.


Under the proposed framework, the coalition would establish a central leadership committee, a publicity and communication committee and a legal committee.


It would also create working groups on democratic renewal, the single-term transition charter, national reforms, opposition unity and the selection of a common presidential candidate.


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Troops have rescued eight abductees and arrested six suspected terrorists and collaborators in separate operations across Borno and Adamawa states.


An operational report made available to the  News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) yesterday said the operations were conducted between September 11 and 13.


The report said the operations also led to the arrest of suspected terrorist logistics suppliers and collaborators, disruption of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), and the arrest of illegal miners.


It said troops of the 82 Division Task Force Battalion rescued eight abductees at the fringes of Armuda and Gava villages in Gwoza Local Government Area (LGA) of Borno State.


The report said preliminary investigations indicated that the victims had escaped from the enclave of Chikede terrorists.


According to the report, the rescued locals were subsequently handed over to local authorities for further action.


In Adamawa State, troops of the 23 Brigade arrested three suspected terrorists at Gaya village, Hong LGA.


“The suspects were arrested following information obtained from a previously arrested terrorist and remained in military custody,” it said.


Also in Adamawa, troops arrested six suspected kidnappers at Soktu Hill, Song Local Government Area, during a raid conducted with hunters.


The suspects reportedly confessed to kidnapping more than seven victims, collecting ransom from some and killing those who failed to pay.

In Borno, troops and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force arrested three suspected terrorist logistics suppliers at Koppa village, Konduga.


The suspects were allegedly supplying food and household items from Maiduguri to terrorists operating around Alajiri village, Mafa.


The troops recovered three mobile phones, two bicycles, N53,200 and other sundry items from the suspects.


The report also said troops conducted a dawn cordon-and-search operation at Kukawa following intelligence about plans by terrorists to attack their location.


According to the report, one suspected terrorist fighter was arrested during the operation after allegedly leaving Kukawa about a year ago to join terrorist groups operating in Dumbullum and Kareto camps.


It added that troops and the Civilian JTF arrested two suspected terrorist collaborators and recovered six loaves of bread and N3.65 million.


In Kwara State, the report said troops of Operation SAVANNAH SHIELD arrested a suspected terrorist collaborator at Oro Ago, Ifelodun LGA.


It said the troops also disrupted an IED threat along the Woro-Nuku Road in Kaiama, where an Explosive Ordnance Disposal team located four IED cylinders.


The EOD team successfully disposed of two cylinders and disabled the remaining two, the report said.


In Plateau, troops of Operation ENDURING PEACE arrested six suspected illegal miners at Rakwok mining site in Barkin Ladi LGA.


The troops recovered a cutlass, seven torchlights, a mobile phone and other items from the suspects.


In Benue, troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE arrested four suspected vandals with vandalised pipelines at Gou, Logo LGA.


A generator and other items were recovered from the suspects.


Meanwhile, troops and police intervened in a communal clash at Kowa Yarda village, Karshi, Abuja, after a herder allegedly macheted two farmers.


The troops subsequently engaged the families, youth leaders and vigilantes and appealed for calm and restraint.


The troops also rescued a Fulani vigilante detained by youths at Ara Sabo and handed him over to the vigilante headquarters in the area.


(NAN)


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Academic activities are yet to resume at the Federal Government College, Kano, on  Monday, following a directive by the education unions to its branches nationwide to oppose the resumption.


The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Federal Government had earlier ordered students across all Unity Colleges nationwide to resume academic sessions on Monday, Sept. 14.


However, the unions opposed the resumption over the controversy surrounding the alleged concession of King’s College, Lagos.


Correspondents of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) who monitored the situation report that the gate of the school remained closed, with few staff seen around the area.


NAN observed that no student was allowed into the school, according to sources who pleaded for anonymity.


A member of the school’s management who spoke to NAN on condition of anonymity confirmed that the institution remained locked in compliance with union directives.


He explained that the industrial action stems from controversy surrounding the alleged handover of King’s College, Lagos, to the Old Boys’ Association without formal explanations.


“The unions wrote to the Minister of Education seeking clarification on whether the school was sold, rented, or handed over for free, but received no response,” the source said.


He said that was the reason why the unions resolved to embark on the strike.


He added that they would remain closed until the controversial concession decision is suspended or completely reversed.


Checks by NAN revealed that students who resumed were immediately sent back without entering the premises.


Parents expressed dismay over the sudden disruption, urging the government and the unions to resolve the impasse urgently to save the academic calendar.


One of the parents, who gave his name as Mr Sanusi Kabir, expressed dismay over the situation.


He called on the two parties to hasten resolving their grievances for the progress of their children’s education.


Another parent, Mr John Thomas, said it is unfortunate that most of the time, both the government and the unions could not resolve their differences until after industrial action.


He therefore stressed the need for the government and the unions to resolve the issue to enable the students to resume normal academic activities in their respective schools.(NAN)

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The Federal Ministry of Education has invited qualified Nigerian university graduates to apply for the 2027/2028 Commonwealth Scholarships and Fellowship Plan, with applications closing on October 20, 2026.


The scholarship notice was shared by the Lagos State Scholarship Board.


The scholarships, which are tenable in the United Kingdom, are available for a one-year taught Master’s programme or doctoral studies of up to three years.


The notice was issued by the ministry’s Department of Scholarship Awards, formerly known as the Federal Scholarship Board, and signed by the Director Overseeing the Office of PSE, Dr Folake Olatunji-David, for the Minister of Education.


According to the notice, applicants for the Master’s category must have a first degree with at least a Second Class Upper Division.


For doctoral studies, applicants are required to possess a relevant Master’s degree in addition to at least a Second Class Lower Division in their first degree.


Applicants for both categories must have secured admission into at least two UK institutions.


Doctoral applicants are also required to provide a supporting statement from a prospective supervisor at their chosen UK institution.


The ministry further listed evidence of participation in the National Youth Service Corps among the eligibility requirements.


The notice stated that the selection process would focus on three key areas.


“Applications will be assessed on Academic merit, Development impact on completion, and Quality of Study plan,” it said.


How to apply


The notice said all applications must be submitted through the Electronic Application System.


Applicants are required to register on the EAS portal and complete the application form online.


They must also upload scanned copies of their passport photographs, university academic transcripts, birth certificates and admission letters received from a UK institution listed in the application form.


Completed applications must be submitted online on or before October 20, 2026.


After submitting the application, candidates are required to create a PDF version of the completed form, download and print one hard copy for submission at the interview venue.


The notice said foreign certificates must be accompanied by official translation and evaluation.


It also advised applicants to consider Nigeria’s developmental priority areas relevant to their fields of specialisation when preparing their study proposals.


The priority areas include education; health; economic growth and the private sector; governance and conflict; climate and environment; water and sanitation; engineering; science and technology; food and nutrition; and humanitarian disasters and emergencies.


The ministry also advised prospective applicants to ensure that their proposed studies align with Nigeria’s development needs.


Prospective applicants were advised to consult the Commonwealth Scholarship Commission website for further information on the scholarship and selection criteria.


Further enquiries may be directed to the Director, Department of Scholarship Awards, through [email protected], 09124516750 or 09082454557.


Application portal: https://cscuk.fcdo.gov.uk/scholarships-results/


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The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) says Air Peace and United Nigeria Airlines recorded the highest number of delayed flights among domestic carriers in August.


The NCAA, in its August 2026 summary of domestic airline flight disruption operations, said Air Peace recorded 1,330 delayed flights out of 1,864 flights operated during the month.


United Nigeria Airlines followed with 943 delayed flights out of 1,231 flights operated.


Enugu Air recorded 582 delayed flights out of 878 flights, while Value Jet had 435 delays from 767 flights.


The agency said Aero recorded 246 delayed flights from 469 operations, followed by Ibom Air with 254 delays out of 560 flights and Arik Air with 188 delays from 301 flights.


Max Air recorded 204 delayed flights from 336 operations, while Rano Air had 216 delays out of 503 flights.


Overland recorded 139 delayed flights from 239 operations, while Green Africa had 114 delays from 226 flights. Binani recorded 22 delays from 57 flights and Xe Jet had 40 delays from 127 operations.


Umza Air recorded 52 delayed flights from 403 operations, while NGEAGLE recorded no flight operations during the period.


Overall, the airlines operated 7,961 domestic flights in August, out of which 4,765 were delayed.


Of the delayed flights, 2,801 were delayed by between 16 minutes and one hour, while 1,322 were delayed between one and two hours, according to the regulator.


Another 407 flights were delayed between two and three hours, while 235 experienced delays of three hours and above.


The NCAA also airlines recorded 36 cancelled flights during the month.


United Nigeria recorded the highest number of cancellations with eight, followed by Air Peace with seven and Enugu Air with four.


On September 10, Chris Najomo, the director-general of the NCAA, issued stern warnings to airlines over the spate of flight delays, crew shortages, and other consumer-related infractions, urging them to align flight schedules with available aircraft and crew.


Najomo questioned the effectiveness of the buffer in view of recurring delays and cancellations being experienced, while acknowledging weather, diversions and airport restrictions as possible causes.


He underlined the need for contingency planning and effective communication with passengers.


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The federal government says it has committed over N10.5 billion to the Digital Training Academy (DTA) to help more than 32,000 young Nigerians build digital skills for a globally competitive economy.


The Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, said this at the official launch of the academy on Monday in Abuja.


Dr Alausa said the academy’s purpose was to bridge Nigeria’s digital skills gap, improve employability, and enable Nigerians to compete globally with their counterparts in other climes.


He said the initiative was a practical expression of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and the Nigeria Education Sector Renewal Initiative (NESRI).


He said the academy would connect Nigerian talents to world-class learning, certification, productive work and entrepreneurship opportunities.


He said the beneficiaries would receive six months of training through platforms such as Coursera and Pluralsight, alongside certifications from global technology companies.


The minister said the programme would enable Nigerians to work remotely for companies and clients worldwide without leaving the country.


Alausa said the programme would focus on areas including cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, machine learning, cloud computing, fintech, product management and quantum computing.


The minister solicited support from professional bodies, academia, and international partners to ensure the programme succeeds.


“Today, we’re not merely unveiling an online learning portal. We’re opening a new pathway to opportunities for thousands of Nigerians.


“We’re connecting talents to world-class learning, learning to certification and certification to productive work, enterprise and national development.


“This initiative is an integral part of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, which is powered by the Nigeria Education Sector Renewal Initiative,” he said.


Alausa said the federal government had partnered with the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN) and Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) to provide study centres, internet access and facilitators for beneficiaries.


He said the arrangement was designed to address challenges faced by learners who might not have computers, internet access or suitable environments for online learning.


He added that the academy would also provide a pathway for beneficiaries of the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) programme to obtain international certifications.


Dr Alausa called on the youths to take advantage of the opportunity provided by the federal government to better their lives.


In a goodwill message, the Director-General, National Identity Management Commission, Abisoye Coker-Odusote, said the agency was poised to provide quality and accessible data that would support the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu.


Ms Coker-Odusote described the academy as an investment in people, knowledge and national capacity.


She said digital identity was critical to ensuring that Nigerians could securely access opportunities in education, employment, financial services and other areas of the digital economy.


She said DTA would provide job space to build a $1 trillion economy.


Also, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Tertiary Education and TETFund, Mohammed Dandutse, called on Nigerian youths to participate in digital training to bridge the gap between theory and technical skills and enhance proficiency.


He promised the Senate committee’s willingness to support research and innovation that would enhance the livelihood of Nigerian youths.


For her part, the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole, expressed her ministry’s commitment to ensuring opportunities for Nigerians both at home and abroad.


Ms Oduwole said the initiative complemented the National Talent Export Programme (NATEP), which was designed to connect Nigerian talent with international employers and buyers.


She said NATEP and its partners recently launched “Hire from Nigeria” to connect Nigerian professionals and service providers with international opportunities.


She said the programme aimed to facilitate one million export-linked, digitally enabled jobs by 2027.


Ms Oduwole called on beneficiaries to take advantage of DTA to enhance their skills for national development.


(NAN)


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