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Former Minister of Transportation and African Democratic Congress (ADC) vice-presidential candidate, Rotimi Amaechi, has expressed confidence that the party will defeat President Bola Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 general election, predicting victories in 13 states across Northern Nigeria.


Amaechi said the ADC was strategically positioned to win across the North-East and North-West, while also making significant inroads into the North-Central and South-South geopolitical zones.


He made the prediction on Saturday during the party’s presidential campaign rally in Bauchi State, where he accused the ruling APC of relying on electoral practices he alleged characterised the 2023 general election.


The former Rivers State governor warned that the opposition party would resist any attempt to repeat what he claimed happened during the last presidential election.


“Because these people will do what they did in 2023. This time, we shall not agree. Do you understand? We will not do what?” he said.


Amaechi, who is the running mate to former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, maintained that the ADC had a stronger electoral base in the North, pointing to its anticipated support across the 13 states in the North-East and North-West.


“We are the only party that comes with 13 states. The whole of North-East, the whole of North-West, that is 13, right? Let the President tell us how many states he comes with. He comes with only five in the South-West,” he said.


He also predicted that the APC would lose another state in the South-West to the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), further weakening Tinubu’s electoral prospects in the region.


“That’s if he will. And the sixth state in the South-West will vote APM, whether he likes it or not,” he added.


The ADC vice-presidential candidate said his party was prepared to challenge the ruling party beyond the Northern region, particularly in the South-South and North-Central, where he expressed confidence that Atiku would secure victories in Niger, Kogi and Nasarawa states.


“We will fight with him in South-South. We will fight with him in North-Central. And be sure, be rest assured, Niger, Kogi, Nasarawa will be in ours easily,” he said.


On the South-East, Amaechi dismissed the prospect of Tinubu making significant electoral gains in the region, insisting that the ADC would emerge victorious in the presidential contest.


“He will not go to South-East at all. Be rest assured, we will win. We will win. Things will get better,” he said.


The Bauchi rally comes against the backdrop of an ongoing leadership dispute within the ADC, following a November 5 judgment of the Federal High Court in Abuja, which nullified the party’s National Working Committee led by former Senate President David Mark.


The court also invalidated decisions taken under the leadership, including the process that produced Atiku as the party’s presidential candidate, and directed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) not to recognise resolutions reached at the party’s 99th National Executive Committee meeting held on July 27, 2025.


However, the ADC rejected the ruling, declaring its intention to challenge the judgment in court and maintaining that its political activities and preparations for the 2027 elections would continue.


Atiku, who served as Vice-President from 1999 to 2007, emerged as the ADC presidential candidate during the party’s May 2026 primary, with Amaechi selected as his running mate.


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Firefighters from the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service on Saturday contained a fire outbreak at No. 9, Ola Market, Adedeji, Itire, in the Surulere area of Lagos State.


The incident, which occurred on Saturday morning, affected the upper floor of a one-storey residential building, but emergency responders prevented the flames from spreading to other parts of the structure.


The Controller-General of the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, Margaret Abimbola Adeseye, disclosed this in a statement issued on November 14, 2026.


According to Adeseye, the agency received a distress call at 10:12am, following which firefighters from its Sari Iganmu and Isolo fire stations were immediately deployed to the scene.


She explained that the fire was restricted to the floor where it started, following the intervention of the emergency response teams.


The agency, however, said further information on the incident would be made available as firefighting operations continued.


The cause of the fire and the extent of damage were not disclosed as of the time of filing this report.


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South African President Cyril Ramaphosa’s spokesperson, Vincent Magwenya, has renewed his public disagreement with Nigeria’s High Commission in South Africa over claims that the President intervened in a controversy involving the omission of Ambassador Femi Fani-Kayode’s speech from a live broadcast of a diplomatic ceremony.


Magwenya dismissed the Nigerian mission’s account of the incident as false, insisting that Ramaphosa neither intervened in the matter nor had the constitutional authority to interfere with the operational activities and editorial decisions of the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC).


The latest development followed a response by the Nigerian High Commission to Magwenya’s earlier criticism of Fani-Kayode’s handling of the incident, which arose during a ceremony where the Nigerian envoy presented his letters of credence.


In a statement posted on X on Friday, Magwenya addressed Fani-Kayode directly, expressing regret that he had to respond to the ambassador through a public platform.


He said, “Your Excellency, I deeply regret that I have to address you through a public platform. However, now that you have falsely referenced the President on a matter he has no involvement in, I’m duty bound to clarify your misrepresentation of facts.


“In South Africa the President does not intervene on operational matters at the public broadcasters, neither did he intervene on your behalf. He simply pointed you to @Sophie_Mokoena who was the most appropriate person to raise your grievance with.


“Your Excellency, you refused to speak to @Sophie_Mokoena who would have cleared the misunderstanding with you. I would encourage you, that as you start your tenure in South Africa you meet with SABC to forge a mutually beneficial, respectful and professional relationship.


“The SABC is a public broadcaster. The President carries no legal or political mandate to interfere with its operations or intervene in it’s editorial processes. Frankly, your approach in this regard on a minor operational issue which you misunderstood was grossly inappropriate.


“I wish you well on your tenure and I hope you begin to engage the various aspects of South African society and it’s constitutional tenets constructively.”


However, the Nigerian High Commission rejected Magwenya’s position, maintaining that Ramaphosa had intervened following the ambassador’s complaint.


In its response on Saturday, the mission defended Fani-Kayode’s conduct and said the incident amounted to disrespect towards Nigeria.


The High Commission stated, “Our Ambassador, H.E. Chief Femi Fani-Kayode, @realFFK was treated with contempt and disdain and by extension so was Nigeria.


“H.E. President Cyril Ramaphosa, who we have the utmost respect for, did the right thing by intervening. We got the result we wanted. End of story,” the mission said on X.


Magwenya subsequently fired back, describing the Nigerian mission’s claim as a fabrication and insisting that neither Ramaphosa nor the Presidency had intervened in the broadcaster’s operations.


He replied, “Even when it’s institutionalised, a lie remains a lie. There was no such intervention from the President or the Presidency and there will never be.


“Read our constitution and laws and familiarise yourself with the SABC editorial code. Stop disgracing yourself and your country,” he replied.


The disagreement originated on Friday after Fani-Kayode accused the South African Presidency of deliberately excluding Nigeria’s delegation from the livestream of a diplomatic ceremony at which Ramaphosa received letters of credence from 15 ambassadors.


The event, which took place at the Presidential Guest House in Pretoria, reportedly featured the live broadcast of the introductions and speeches of 14 ambassadors, while Nigeria’s presentation was excluded.


Fani-Kayode alleged that the livestream was deliberately suspended when it was Nigeria’s turn to address the gathering and restored only after he had completed his speech.


The Nigerian envoy subsequently said he confronted the matter with Ramaphosa during a photograph session after the ceremony, claiming that the South African leader summoned the officials responsible for the broadcast and instructed them to resolve the situation.


“Right there in my presence he questioned them and directed them to resolve the issue immediately. Sadly, by then it was too late and Nigeria had been left out,” the ambassador said.


Fani-Kayode also expressed appreciation to Ramaphosa for what he described as his intervention, although he said he was disappointed that Nigeria’s presentation had been excluded from the broadcast.


Magwenya, however, maintained that the President did not intervene in the SABC’s operations but merely directed the Nigerian ambassador to Sophie Mokoena, whom he identified as the appropriate official to receive and address his complaint.


He also advised Fani-Kayode to establish a professional working relationship with the public broadcaster and familiarise himself with South Africa’s constitutional framework.


Following the controversy, the South African Presidency released the complete recording of the diplomatic ceremony, including Fani-Kayode’s address, on its official YouTube channel.


During his speech, the Nigerian envoy pledged to work towards strengthening diplomatic and economic relations between Nigeria and South Africa, describing his appointment as an opportunity to rebuild ties and address issues of mutual interest.


He also recalled Nigeria’s contributions to the struggle against apartheid in South Africa and called for stronger cooperation between the two countries.


The ceremony was particularly significant as it marked the first appointment of a substantive Nigerian High Commissioner to South Africa in four years, according to Fani-Kayode.


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The Bauchi State Government has suspended the Emir of Lame, Yakubu Aliyu, following allegations of unlawful levy collection, interference in land administration and involvement in the activities of mining companies within the emirate.


The suspension, which takes immediate effect, was announced on Saturday by Mukhtar Gidado, Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the governor.


According to Gidado, the government has constituted a 12-member administrative panel of inquiry to investigate the allegations against the traditional ruler. He said the suspension would remain in place until the panel concludes its assignment and submits its report.


He explained that the state government received several formal petitions and intelligence reports from community leaders, stakeholders and security agencies concerning the emir’s alleged activities.


The complaints, he said, had reportedly heightened tensions within the emirate, prompting concerns over public safety, security and peaceful coexistence among residents.


“The allegations against the Emir include unlawful interference in land administration, unauthorised collection of levies, undue interference in the operations of mining companies, and other alleged acts of misconduct,” he said.


Gidado disclosed that the government had earlier invited the emir to explain his actions as part of efforts to ensure fair hearing. However, he said the explanation provided was considered unsatisfactory, leading to the decision to establish an independent investigative panel.


He stressed, however, that the allegations had not been established, assuring that the suspended traditional ruler would have the opportunity to defend himself.


He noted that “the allegations remain subject to investigation and that the Emir shall be afforded the opportunity to respond to all allegations against him in accordance with the principles of natural justice and due process”.


The panel will be chaired by Sani Mohammed, a retired Deputy Inspector-General of Police, and will include Musa Yankari, a retired Director of the Department of State Services (DSS), alongside representatives of the Nigeria Police Force, DSS and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).


The committee has been given three weeks to complete its investigation and submit its findings and recommendations to the state government.


Explaining the rationale behind the suspension, Gidado said the measure was designed to ensure an unhindered investigation and prevent any possible compromise of the process.


“The suspension is a precautionary administrative measure intended to safeguard the integrity of the investigation, prevent possible interference with witnesses and official Emirate records, and reduce tensions within the community,” he said.


As part of the conditions attached to the suspension, the government directed Aliyu to remain within the emirate unless he obtains permission from the appropriate authorities.


He was also instructed to refrain from participating in or interfering with the administrative, traditional and other official activities of the emirate council while the investigation is ongoing.


Meanwhile, Bala Abubakar, a senior councillor of the Lame Emirate Council, has been appointed to oversee the day-to-day administration of the emirate in an acting capacity.


The state government said the temporary arrangement was necessary to maintain administrative stability and ensure the uninterrupted running of the emirate’s affairs pending the outcome of the investigation.


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The Edo State Government has presented the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC) with a Certificate of Occupancy (C-of-O) for its proposed Oredo refinery and petrochemical project, in a move aimed at advancing the state’s drive to attract investments and boost industrial development.


The certificate was presented to the NNPC delegation during a courtesy visit to the Edo State Government House in Benin City, with the company’s Executive Vice-President, Downstream, Mumuni Dagazau, receiving the document on behalf of the national oil company.


Dagazau commended Governor Monday Okpebholo for providing the land and necessary documentation to facilitate the proposed investment.


He said the refinery project was consistent with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly its objectives of strengthening domestic energy security, reducing reliance on imported petroleum products and promoting local value addition.


According to him, the project would expand Nigeria’s refining capacity while creating investment opportunities across the downstream petroleum sector.


He further identified employment generation, technology transfer, increased local participation and industrial growth among the expected benefits of the proposed facility.


The NNPC executive assured the Edo government that the company would collaborate with the state administration and other relevant stakeholders to ensure the successful execution of the project.


He described the presentation of the C-of-O as evidence of Okpebholo’s commitment to attracting productive investments capable of stimulating economic activities in the state.


Dagazau expressed optimism that the refinery would contribute to Edo’s economic development and strengthen Nigeria’s energy security, while highlighting the importance of cooperation between government and investors.


In his remarks, Governor Okpebholo expressed satisfaction with the NNPC delegation’s visit and reiterated his administration’s readiness to provide an enabling environment for businesses and investors.


He explained that allocating land for the proposed refinery was part of his government’s broader strategy to attract investments, expand the state’s revenue base and generate employment for residents.


The governor said the project would broaden Edo’s commercial and industrial activities while delivering economic benefits to the people.


He also assured NNPC of the state government’s continued support, expressing confidence that the proposed refinery would make a significant contribution to the state’s development.

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The Presidency has challenged reports that President Bola Tinubu’s convoy came under attack from angry youths after he observed Friday prayers at the Shehu Shagari Central Mosque in Area 1, Garki, Abuja, insisting that videos circulating on social media misrepresented what happened.


The President’s Senior Special Assistant on Digital Engagement, Strategy and New Media, O’tega Ogra, described the footage showing youths allegedly throwing stones at a convoy believed to belong to Tinubu as “misleading”.


Ogra maintained that footage released by the Presidency showed the President departing the mosque peacefully after observing the Juma’at prayer.


However, in an earlier footage, Tinubu was seen booed by some aggrieved worshippers and residents shortly after attending the Friday prayers at the mosque.


The incident reportedly occurred as the President’s convoy prepared to leave the premises, with some people in the crowd chanting slogans expressing dissatisfaction with his administration.


Videos reportedly obtained from the scene captured some members of the crowd chanting “Ba mayi, ba ma so”, a Hausa expression translated as “We don’t want you; we don’t support you”.


Others were also heard chanting “Tinubu Must Go”, a slogan associated with opposition to the President’s re-election ambition ahead of the 2027 general elections.


An eyewitness who attended the prayers reportedly attributed the protest to restrictions allegedly imposed on worshippers because of the President’s visit.


But Ogra disputed the account in a post on his X handle on Friday, sharing a separate video showing Tinubu leaving the mosque after the prayers.


“Contrary to the narrative being pushed by the opposition, with videos of their alleged paid thugs at the National Mosque today, here is footage of Mr President leaving the mosque after Friday prayers this afternoon,” he wrote.


In the video, Tinubu, dressed in a white outfit and a black cap bearing his traditional insignia, was seen acknowledging supporters who waved at him and took photographs as he approached his official vehicle.


Nevertheless, accounts published by other media organisations provided further details of the incident, including allegations that some worshippers were prevented from entering or leaving the mosque during the President’s visit.


The controversy emerged hours before Tinubu issued a warning against political violence ahead of the 2027 general elections, urging politicians and their supporters to conduct themselves peacefully.


In a statement personally signed on Friday, the President condemned reported acts of violence at political gatherings across the country and called on political stakeholders to shun violence.


He also disclosed that security agencies had been authorised to confront thuggery and other anti-democratic activities with full force.


Tinubu urged political parties and their candidates to concentrate on presenting policies, ideas and proposals that would improve the welfare of Nigerians and promote national development.


He further reiterated his commitment to ensuring a peaceful, free and fair electoral process, stressing that political disagreements should not turn Nigerians against one another.


The incident has sparked renewed discussions about the President’s reception during public engagements and the security arrangements surrounding his movements as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections.


(SAHARA REPORTERS)


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Former Jigawa State Governor, Sule Lamido, has faulted the failure of opposition leaders Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi to agree on a common presidential candidate for the 2027 election, arguing that Atiku should have been allowed to lead the opposition’s presidential ticket, with Obi taking over after four years.


Lamido, a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), said an arrangement that would have seen Atiku emerge as the presidential candidate and Obi as his running mate, with an understanding that the latter would succeed him after one term, could have prevented the division currently confronting the opposition.


He made the remarks on Friday while appearing on Channels Television’s Politics Today, where he discussed the political implications of the failure by the two opposition leaders to unite ahead of the 2027 presidential election.


According to the former governor, the inability of Atiku and Obi to harmonise their political ambitions has weakened the opposition’s chances of mounting a united challenge against President Bola Tinubu.


“I think the way things are, the propaganda and support warfare is too much. It’s too intense for even Nigeria to be able to really understand what’s happening,” he said.


Lamido attributed the opposition’s predicament partly to the political strength of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), particularly the number of serving and former governors in its fold, as well as the disagreement between Atiku and Obi.


“Because of the number of governors, both serving and former governors of the APC, and because Atiku and Obi divided their own force, it gives Tinubu the advantage,” he said.


He maintained that the opposition leaders were making it easier for Tinubu to pursue a second term by failing to reach an agreement on a common political platform and presidential arrangement.


“So both Peter Obi and Atiku are simply handing Tinubu, very easily. But if they come together, it would have been a high-level canvas, you know, Atiku for president and Obi running mate, and then after four years, one takes over,” he said.


Atiku and Obi, who contested against Tinubu in the 2023 presidential election on the platforms of the PDP and Labour Party respectively, later left their parties to pursue a common opposition platform ahead of the 2027 elections.


In July 2025, opposition leaders adopted the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as a coalition platform to challenge the ruling APC.


However, disagreements over party leadership, structure and presidential ambitions reportedly weakened the alliance.


The crisis eventually led Obi and former Kano State Governor, Rabiu Kwankwaso, to leave the ADC for the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in May 2026. Obi was subsequently adopted as the NDC’s presidential candidate for the 2027 election.


Atiku, meanwhile, remained in the ADC and emerged as the party’s presidential candidate after its primary.


Obi has maintained that any political arrangement with Atiku must be based on a formal agreement between their respective parties rather than a personal understanding.


Speaking further, Lamido expressed concern that the personal ambitions of political leaders had overshadowed the broader national interest, warning that Nigerians would bear the consequences irrespective of who eventually wins the presidential election.


“I’ve been saying, look, whoever wins, Nigeria will lose. That’s my problem.


“Whoever, whether Peter Obi, Atiku, whoever wins, in terms of our unity, our economy, our love as a country of brothers and sisters, it’s all gone down. It’s more about their personalities. They are abusing each other. Those things become very, very personal,” he said.


The former governor stressed that his concern went beyond the outcome of the election, noting that the growing hostility among political actors could further undermine national unity and cohesion.


He also raised concerns about increasing political tension, particularly in northern Nigeria, citing what he described as propaganda, hate campaigns and incitement.


Lamido lamented that political campaigns had shifted away from substantive discussions about national development, unity, empathy and the programmes candidates intend to implement if elected.


“We’ve abandoned the traditional campaign on issues, about love, about empathy, about unity, about Nigeria, and then what can you offer? What can you offer? So it’s not there anymore,” he said.


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President Bola Tinubu has directed security agencies to take decisive action against political thuggery and other activities capable of undermining democratic processes, warning that his administration will not condone violence as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections.


The President gave the directive in a statement personally signed by him on Friday, November 13, 2026, in which he condemned reported attacks at political gatherings in different parts of the country.


Tinubu urged political parties, their leaders and supporters to embrace peaceful campaigns, stressing that electoral contests should be driven by policies, ideas and programmes that would improve the welfare of Nigerians and promote national development.


“Every form of violence stands condemned. Violence should never have a place in our political campaigns as we move toward the 2027 general elections,” he said.


The President’s statement followed reports of politically motivated attacks and violent incidents in Bauchi, Zamfara, Gombe, Delta, Kaduna, Nasarawa, Edo and, most recently, Lagos State.


He cautioned political actors against allowing partisan differences and personal ambitions to create hostility among Nigerians, noting that political competition should not undermine national unity.


“I have said that being in different political parties or pursuing different ambitions does not make us enemies,” he said.


Tinubu likened the country to one household whose members occupy different rooms, emphasising that political differences should not prevent citizens from working towards shared national objectives.


He further reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ensuring peaceful, free and fair elections, insisting that political parties and candidates must enjoy the freedom to campaign in every part of the country without intimidation or threats to their safety.


The President also charged security agencies to maintain public order and respond firmly to individuals and groups seeking to disrupt political activities through violence.


“We shall not tolerate any irresponsible conduct by politicians and their supporters,” he warned.


“Security agencies are therefore authorised to confront thuggery and other anti-social and anti-democratic activities with full force,” the President added.


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Nigerian singer Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, says he received ₦100m from a politician following his participation in campaign activities organised by the All Progressives Congress (APC).


The controversial street-pop artiste made the claim in a video that circulated on social media on Friday, in which he appeared wearing an APC-branded shirt and a cap bearing the name of Senator Solomon Adeola, popularly known as Yayi.


Portable, who also displayed campaign materials featuring the politician, claimed that he discovered the huge sum in his bank account after waking up from a nap.


According to the singer, the money was reportedly transferred on the instructions of Adeola in appreciation of his involvement in the party’s campaign activities.


Expressing excitement over the alleged payment, Portable said, “My dearest fans! I just woke up to an alert of N100m from Yayi! IBD Dende, oga mi! God bless you. Thank you! Yayi instructed them to send me the money. I took a nap, and God saved me from death.


“When I woke up today, I remembered that IBD had asked me to go home yesterday and said he would reach out to me. But some of my senior street brothers and street politicians came to tell me that Yayi was looking for me.


“Are you the one to tell me that Yayi is looking for me?’ I asked. They wanted to scam me, just as they did when Yayi sent money previously. I did not get a dime then.”


The singer subsequently expressed gratitude to God and the politician, describing the alleged payment as a significant financial boost.


“Thank you, Lord! Yayi has sent N100m. Thank you, IBD Dende. May your children be glorious! May you live long, my daddy. It shall be well with you. N100m is not a small amount at all!” he said.


The latest development comes weeks after Portable publicly acknowledged receiving financial benefits for participating in APC campaign activities in support of President Bola Tinubu’s anticipated re-election bid in 2027.


In October, the singer had appealed to Tinubu and his son, Seyi Tinubu, for additional payment after performing at an APC rally at the Onikan Stadium in Lagos on October 13.


In a video recorded shortly after the event, Portable was seen lying on the stadium floor, complaining about the physical exhaustion he experienced while entertaining the crowd and demanding an opportunity to meet the President and his son.

“I want to see Tinubu and Seyi Tinubu; they have almost squeezed me to death. I have fainted; it is Tinubu that is winning. Did we not collect money? Tinubu, pay me more money; I am feeling so much heat,” he said.


Although he admitted receiving payment for his appearance at the rally, the singer maintained that his performance and efforts warranted additional compensation.


In another video that emerged earlier in October, Portable also attributed an improvement in his financial circumstances to money received from participating in political campaign activities, following what he described as a period of financial difficulties.


However, the singer’s latest claim of receiving ₦100m has not been independently verified. Details surrounding the purported transaction, including the actual source and purpose of the money, also remain unclear.


(PUNCH)

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Pakistani security operatives have arrested 20 Nigerian nationals during coordinated anti-drug raids in Islamabad and Rawalpindi, recovering 4.432 kilogrammes of cocaine, methamphetamine and cannabis.


The arrests followed an intelligence-led operation conducted by the country’s Anti-Narcotics Force (ANF) to dismantle suspected drug trafficking networks operating in the two cities.


Pakistan Today, a Pakistani newspaper, reported on Friday that the operation targeted several locations believed to be hideouts used by suspected drug dealers.


In a statement, the ANF said the suspects were allegedly members of an organised drug trafficking syndicate involved in distributing and selling illicit substances, particularly among young people and students.


“The arrested suspects were associated with an organised drug trafficking network allegedly involved in the smuggling, distribution and sale of cocaine, ice, and weed among youth, particularly students of educational institutions in Islamabad and Rawalpindi.”


The agency disclosed that investigations were ongoing to uncover the identities of the principal figures behind the suspected trafficking organisations and establish the full extent of their operations in Islamabad, Rawalpindi and other parts of Pakistan.


The arrests form part of the country’s efforts to tackle drug distribution networks accused of targeting young people and students in educational institutions.


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President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to expanding Nigeria’s maritime economy with the groundbreaking of the Bakassi Deep Seaport in Cross River State, a project expected to boost international trade, attract investments and generate employment opportunities.


The groundbreaking ceremony, held in Bakassi on Friday, was performed on behalf of the President by Vice-President Kashim Shettima, who said the proposed seaport would create new commercial opportunities and strengthen Nigeria’s competitiveness in regional and global maritime trade.


Tinubu described the project as a strategic national investment, stressing that its benefits would extend beyond Cross River State to the wider Nigerian economy.


According to him, the seaport, first conceived in 2014, would help ease congestion at existing ports, particularly in Lagos, while providing an alternative maritime gateway for handling cargo destined for Nigeria and other parts of the region.


He explained that the facility, designed with a 20-metre draft to accommodate large vessels, would be linked to a 260-kilometre superhighway to improve the transportation of goods from the port to markets across the country.


“This is beyond a Cross River dream. It is a Nigerian project. It is a poverty breaker,” Tinubu said.


The President maintained that the Bakassi project was not intended to undermine the importance of Lagos in Nigeria’s maritime sector but would complement existing facilities and distribute the country’s trade activities more efficiently.


“Lagos is not our enemy. Lagos is our elder brother in trade. No country eats with one hand. No country carries all its loads on one shoulder. That shoulder will break,” he said.


“When Calabar works, Nigeria works on two legs.”


Tinubu lamented that Nigeria had yet to maximise the economic opportunities offered by its extensive coastline along the Gulf of Guinea, noting that neighbouring countries continued to benefit from cargo traffic that could otherwise be handled through Nigerian ports.


He observed that although approximately 90 per cent of global cargo transportation takes place by sea, Nigeria accounts for only a limited share of regional maritime trade despite its economic potential.


The President said the Bakassi Deep Seaport would diversify the country’s maritime infrastructure, improve access to international markets and strengthen Nigeria’s position as a major player in regional commerce.


Tracing the history of the project, Tinubu recalled that it was initiated in 2014, with an Environmental and Social Impact Assessment developed in March 2015, before receiving renewed attention under the administration of Cross River State Governor Bassey Otu.


He commended Otu for advancing the project, particularly efforts to secure a $3.5bn financing arrangement with the African Export-Import Bank and establish its Public-Private Partnership framework in February 2025.


Acknowledging the economic and territorial setbacks suffered by Cross River State following the Bakassi peninsula ruling and the loss of oil revenue, Tinubu urged residents to ensure that political differences did not undermine the implementation of the project.


“The peninsula was not the end of your story, but the beginning of your next chapter,” he said.


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Prominent political figures in Plateau State have declared support for President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027, pledging to mobilise voters across the state to secure victory for the All Progressives Congress (APC).


The endorsement was announced at a high-level political stakeholders’ meeting organised by Arewa for Asiwaju (A4A) in Jos, the Plateau State capital, where participants also adopted the Plateau State Governor and other APC candidates for the forthcoming general elections.


A statement signed by Edwin Olofu, Head of Media Relations, A4A, on Friday, said the meeting, which attracted former governors, ministers, senators, members of the House of Representatives, former commissioners and local government chairmen, unanimously endorsed the candidates through a voice vote.


The gathering was chaired by Senator Simon Lalong, former Governor of Plateau State and Deputy Chairman of the A4A Board of Trustees.


Speaking at the meeting, Lalong said the stakeholders were convinced that Tinubu remained committed to Nigeria’s development, expressing confidence that another term would accelerate socio-economic growth and national transformation.


Also speaking, former Plateau State Governor, Chief Joshua Dariye, commended the Tinubu administration for what he described as its contributions to the development of Plateau State and Nigeria.


Dariye argued that the President deserved another term to consolidate on the achievements of his administration.


In his remarks, the Director-General of A4A and former Governor of Jigawa State, Muhammad Badaru Abubakar, called on Northern Nigerians to demonstrate political fairness and reciprocity by supporting Tinubu’s re-election bid.


Badaru said the region should reciprocate what he described as the President’s spirit of equity, fairness and political inclusion by giving him overwhelming support in the 2027 elections.


He expressed satisfaction with the commitment demonstrated by Plateau political stakeholders, describing their endorsement as an important step towards strengthening the APC’s electoral prospects in the state and the wider Northern region.


The former Jigawa governor further expressed optimism that the political commitment demonstrated at the meeting would translate into millions of votes for Tinubu and other APC candidates in the 2027 general elections.


The stakeholders also resolved to intensify grassroots mobilisation, political engagement and coordinated campaigns to ensure the party’s success across all elective positions in Plateau State.


The meeting reaffirmed A4A’s commitment to sustaining political mobilisation and expanding support for the President and other APC candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections.


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The Convener of African Royalty Awards and Executive Director of Face of Royalty Beauty Pageant, Mr. Duke Bassey has reportedly passed away moments ago following a seizure attack. 

According information from a neighbor, the corpse of the deceased is currently at Kelina hospital, Gwarimpa as efforts are being made to contact his family members.

The late Duke Bassey had not been in Abuja for sometime now but recently got back and had made couple of event appearances including yesterday at 2026 LEEX AWARDS at NAF Conference Centre,  Abuja. 

Speaking to the National pageant president, King Fajag, expressed sadness over the news as popular Entertainer, Nick B confirmed the report from the hospital.

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The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has recovered more than N5.3bn from local government accounts across seven states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), following investigations into their financial activities.


The commission also announced plans to collaborate with the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) to ensure that all 774 local government areas in the country make their financial records and other relevant information accessible to the public through dedicated websites.


The ICPC Chairman, Dr Musa Aliyu, disclosed this during the launch of the ICPC-NITDA Local Government Websites Pilot in Nasarawa State.


According to a statement issued on Thursday by the commission’s spokesperson, John Odey, the initiative is aimed at promoting transparency, strengthening accountability and preventing corruption in local government administration through digital platforms.


Aliyu said the recovery of the funds exposed the financial irregularities that could occur at the grassroots level when public resources were not adequately monitored.


“The ICPC has recovered over N5.3 billion from a review of local government accounts in seven states and the Federal Capital Territory, and is now moving to make councils across the country publish their finances online.


“The recoveries show both the scale of the risk at the grassroots and what scrutiny can achieve, and the websites are the preventive side of the same effort,” he said.


He explained that the Supreme Court’s July 2024 judgment affirming the financial autonomy of local government councils, including the direct payment of their statutory allocations, had made effective financial oversight more important.


The ICPC chairman stressed that the autonomy granted to councils must be accompanied by responsible management and transparent utilisation of public resources.


“Autonomy brings responsibility. Funds that now flow directly to the councils must be spent openly and for the benefit of the people,” he said.


Under the proposed arrangement, local government councils will be required to upload details of their budgets, statutory allocations, internally generated revenue, expenditure, audit reports, debts, procurement activities and human resources.


The platforms will also provide channels through which residents can engage with their councils, submit complaints and report suspected cases of financial misconduct.


Aliyu said making such information publicly available would empower citizens and the media to scrutinise government spending while helping relevant oversight agencies identify possible irregularities.


“When these records are published regularly, citizens can follow the money, the media can ask informed questions and oversight institutions can detect risks early, before they become losses,” Aliyu added.


He said NITDA would provide the technical support required to establish the platforms, including domain registration, website development and hosting services for a minimum of one year.


The ICPC, on its part, would develop the content requirements and accountability framework to guide the publication of financial information.


Aliyu urged local government chairmen to appoint officials responsible for managing the websites and ensuring that information uploaded was accurate and regularly updated.


He maintained that the commission intended to implement the programme as a corruption prevention initiative rather than a tool for witch-hunting public officials.


Speaking at the event, the Director-General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, said the project would strengthen governance, improve citizen participation and create new economic opportunities.


He noted that digital platforms would make it easier for residents to obtain information about government activities and projects, as well as communicate their concerns to public authorities.


“Our people are online; therefore, government needs to be online to serve them better,” he said.


Abdullahi said NITDA would establish operational standards, develop website templates and provide training for citizens to support the effective use of the platforms

He added that the project was designed to extend beyond the pilot phase in Nasarawa State to cover all 774 local government areas nationwide.


“Our ambition is not 774 websites. It is 774 digitally empowered local governments delivering better experience to millions of Nigerians,” he said.


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The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan, has said the commission will comply with any final court judgment concerning former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar’s eligibility to contest the 2027 presidential election.


Amupitan gave the assurance on Thursday while speaking at Chatham House in London, where he addressed questions about Atiku’s political future following a Federal High Court judgment that nullified the leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) faction led by Senator David Mark.


Atiku emerged as the ADC’s presidential candidate under the disputed leadership structure.


The INEC chairman explained that the commission was constitutionally required to implement judicial decisions, particularly those handed down by the Supreme Court, regardless of the political implications.


“If he eventually fails, well, I’m obligated under Section 285 of the Constitution of Nigeria to obey every court order, especially if it is from the Supreme Court,” Amupitan stated.


He, however, expressed concern over the growing number of pre-election litigations confronting the electoral commission, warning that the cases could complicate preparations for the January 2027 general election.


According to him, INEC is currently dealing with more than 300 pending court cases, despite the limited time remaining before the polls.


“Some of those issues we have with court cases—over 300 cases hanging on the neck of INEC, and elections are just about 66 days away,” he lamented.


Amupitan disclosed that the commission had already commenced procurement of sensitive election materials, noting that prolonged legal disputes and judgments delivered close to election day could disrupt its operational arrangements.


He recalled that when the ADC leadership dispute emerged in April, INEC had advocated an expedited hearing to ensure that the matter was resolved within three weeks.


The commission, he explained, wanted the legal uncertainty settled early enough to enable it to conclude its preparations without disruptions.


However, the dispute remained unresolved at the lower court and has now proceeded to the Court of Appeal following the ADC’s decision to challenge the judgment.


Amupitan called for reforms to the electoral legal framework, proposing that all pre-election disputes should be concluded between six months and one year before an election.


He argued that allowing such cases to linger until shortly before voting creates difficulties for INEC, which often bears the burden of implementing court decisions amid public criticism.


The chairman said the situation could make the commission appear responsible for controversies arising from judicial decisions, even when it is merely complying with the law.


“The danger is that whenever there is such a decision, and it’s up to you to now implement it, you become the problem. The problem now is transferred unto you,” he said.


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60 Youths Trained and Empowered


ABUJA, NIGERIA 


The Youths on Ground Mentorship Initiative has successfully concluded an Agro-Tech Training and Empowerment Programme aimed at equipping young people in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) with practical agricultural skills, entrepreneurial knowledge and the resources to become economically self-reliant.


The programme, which represents a significant step towards youth empowerment and sustainable development, saw 60 selected youths receive specialised training in agro-technology, alongside starter kits and cash seed money to enable them to establish and grow their own agricultural ventures.


The event was attended by the National Coordinator of the initiative, Dr. Obioma Nwuba, and Princess Hadiza Offoboche Musa Ujah, representing the Directorate of Youth Mobilisation, APC Presidential Campaign Committee.


Their presence underscored the importance of strategic partnerships, youth mobilisation and sustained investment in initiatives that translate empowerment promises into tangible opportunities for young Nigerians.

Speaking on the significance of the programme, the FCT Coordinator, Emmanuel Eyaba, described the initiative as more than a training exercise, noting that its ultimate objective is to move young people from dependency to productivity by providing them with relevant skills, mentorship and start-up support.


He emphasised that agriculture remains a viable pathway to wealth creation, food security, employment generation and economic transformation, particularly when combined with modern technology and entrepreneurial innovation.


The initiative reaffirmed its commitment to identifying, mentoring, training and empowering young people through practical interventions that create sustainable opportunities and encourage self-reliance.


With 60 beneficiaries taking their first steps towards building sustainable agro-based businesses, the programme sends a strong message that the future of Nigerian youths must be built on access to opportunities, skills, mentorship and the right support systems.


This is more than empowerment. It is an investment in the future. It is the dawn of a new era for Nigerian youths!


Signed:


Emmanuel Eyaba (NIPR) 

FCT Coordinator Youths on Ground Mentorship Initiative.



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The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has removed artificial intelligence-generated photographs uploaded to the national voters’ register and flagged officials implicated in the practice across 10 states for disciplinary action.


INEC National Commissioner, Mohammed Haruna, disclosed this on Wednesday during a webinar organised by the PUNCH Media Foundation, titled ‘AI, Misinformation and Nigeria’s 2027 Elections: Safeguarding the Truth, Protecting the Vote’.


Haruna, who is also Chairman of the commission’s Information and Voter Education Committee, described the development as a major challenge, noting that the commission had already taken down AI-generated photographs identified on the voters’ register.


He, however, acknowledged that INEC faced limitations in preventing members of the public from manipulating or enhancing their photographs before uploading them during voter registration.


The commissioner said the commission had also identified cases involving its own personnel and was taking steps to address the violations.


“We have already seen one of the challenges, which is that a lot of AI-generated photographs were posted onto the voters’ register, which, as we have said, we have had to take down,” he said.


Haruna explained that while it might be difficult for the commission to prevent members of the public from manipulating their photographs before submission, it had greater control over violations involving its officials.


“But the ones involving our own staff, where it is our own staff that did so, that one is within our control. We are in the process of addressing it. They have been flagged,” he said.


He disclosed that the commission had obtained the names of the officials involved across about 10 states, adding that they would face disciplinary action.


“We have their names across about 10 states, and obviously, they are going to face disciplinary action,” he added.


On INEC’s preparedness to regulate the use of artificial intelligence in the electoral process ahead of the 2027 general elections, Haruna said the commission had developed an AI policy but was working to finalise it.


He noted that the rapid evolution of artificial intelligence had created regulatory challenges for countries across the world, including advanced democracies.


According to him, the evolving nature of the technology has made it difficult for governments to establish comprehensive and specific regulatory frameworks.


“As you know very well, it is new territory out there. Even the most advanced countries don’t have what you might call concrete, specific policies about AI because these things are evolving,” he said.


Haruna, however, said INEC had developed ideas on how it intended to deploy and regulate the technology, assuring that the policy would soon be finalised and made available to the media.


“But we have at least some ideas of what we want to do and how we want to use that. We have that policy. Very soon, we will concretise it, and we will be able to share it with the media,” he said.


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The Zamfara State Commissioner for Commerce, Tasiu Musa Shinkafi, has died at the age of 50 following a brief illness.


Shinkafi reportedly died on Wednesday in Kaduna, throwing the state government and his associates into mourning.


Governor Dauda Lawal, who expressed sadness over the development, described the commissioner’s death as a major loss to the state and its people.


In a condolence statement issued on Thursday by his spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, the governor said Shinkafi’s death was a painful development for his family, the government and the entire people of Zamfara State.


He said, “With heavy hearts and in total submission to the will of Almighty Allah (T), we received the shocking news of the passing of the Commissioner for Commerce, Tasiu Musa Shinkafi.


“Tasiu’s death is a great loss not only to his family and the state government, but also to the people of Zamfara.


“He will be remembered for his dedication, honesty, and commitment to Zamfara State.


“He served diligently as Commissioner for Youth and Sport before being redeployed to the Ministry of Commerce.


“As a valued member of my administration and a brother in service, his contributions to governance, politics, and public service will be remembered.


“May Almighty Allah forgive his shortcomings and give his family the strength to bear this great loss.”


The late commissioner previously served as Commissioner for Youth and Sports before his redeployment to the Ministry of Commerce.


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Manchester United have dismissed head coach Michael Carrick following the club’s disappointing start to the 2026/27 Premier League season, with former Tottenham and Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino emerging as the leading candidate to take over.


Carrick’s dismissal was announced on Thursday after United managed just eight points from their opening 10 league matches, leaving the former English champions in the relegation zone.


The former United midfielder had enjoyed a successful spell last season, guiding the club to third place after winning 12 of their remaining 17 matches in the 2025/26 campaign.


However, the team’s poor performances this season, including just three victories in 15 matches across all competitions, reportedly convinced the club’s hierarchy that a managerial change was necessary.


In a statement confirming his departure, Manchester United said: “Manchester United can confirm that Michael Carrick has departed his role as men’s first-team head coach,” the club said in a statement.


“Michael rejoined the club in January and guided the team to a third-placed Premier League finish by winning 12 out of the remaining 17 games of the 2025/26 season, accumulating the highest points tally in the league during that period.


“After a disappointing start to the season, the club has come to the extremely difficult conclusion that a change is necessary to achieve our ambitions.”


Carrick’s final match was Sunday’s dramatic 4-4 draw against Aston Villa. Despite the disappointing result, he had indicated that he was not prepared to resign from his position.


Reports suggest that the decision to part ways with the former midfielder was reached on Wednesday at a meeting in Monaco attended by co-owner Jim Ratcliffe, chief executive Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox.


Carrick had initially earned praise for stabilising the team following the departure of Ruben Amorim, whose tenure ended with his dismissal in January.


However, United’s struggles this season have been compounded by what was described as an underwhelming transfer window and growing tensions within the squad.


The former manager also faced disciplinary and dressing-room challenges, including dropping captain Bruno Fernandes after the midfielder reportedly criticised his tactical approach following a 4-1 defeat to Champions League newcomers Como.


Defender Lisandro Martinez also publicly expressed dissatisfaction with the club’s hierarchy over what he considered a lack of quality recruitment.


Meanwhile, Pochettino is increasingly being linked with the vacant managerial position at Old Trafford.


The Argentine has considerable experience in English football, having previously managed Southampton, Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea. He also had a spell in charge of French giants Paris Saint-Germain.


Although Pochettino signed a contract extension with the United States national team just three months ago, committing his future to the country until the 2030 World Cup, reports indicate that negotiations with Manchester United have progressed.


Sky Sports reported on Wednesday that United have “reached a verbal agreement in principle” with the Argentine to become the club’s next head coach.


Pochettino has been linked with the Manchester United job on several occasions in the past, but his potential appointment would present a major challenge as the club seeks to restore its former status in English football.


United have struggled to replicate the success they enjoyed under legendary former manager Alex Ferguson, who retired 13 years ago. The club have yet to win another Premier League title since his departure.


Once the dominant force in English football, Manchester United have since been overtaken by rivals Manchester City, Liverpool and Arsenal.


The club’s next fixture is a high-profile encounter against arch-rivals Liverpool at Anfield on November 22.


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Abuja is about to go agog with the Abuja South South Festival 2026, a socio-cultural gathering of the people of the South South geopolitical region of Nigeria residing in the nation’s capital.


The organiser of the fest, which aims to bring together the indigenes and residents of Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo and Rivers, has announced plans to host a colourful cultural festival on December 6, 2026, at Old Parade Ground, Garki, by 1:00 pm prompt, as part of activities to celebrate the region’s rich cultural heritage and ursher everyone into the holidays and yuletide with love.


The event, tagged Abuja South South Fest 2026, is an inaugural annual cultural and social festival designed to showcase the diverse traditions, music, dance, fashion, varied cuisines and cultural identity of the six South South states in the Federal Capital Territory.


IYERE, Sylvester Oshogwe popular known as DREAMZ, founder of Dreamsville Entertainment & Events World and the lead organiser, has said the festival is expected to bring together members of the South South community, cultural enthusiasts, business owners, entertainers and other residents of Abuja for a memorable celebration of the region’s heritage.


The programme will also feature keynote addresses on why the South South is pivotal to the growth and economic advancement of the nation at large, alongside a special edition of the Africa Development and Empowerment Merit Awards (ADEMA), with prominent personalities mostly of South South extraction expected to be recognised for their contributions to society.

Notable entertainers are also expected to perform, adding glamour and excitement to the celebration.

Beyond its cultural significance, Abuja South South Fest 2026 is expected to provide an avenue for networking, business promotion and social interaction among participants, while creating opportunities for entrepreneurs and vendors to showcase their products and services to a wider audience.


Organisers have introduced different categories of tickets to accommodate individuals, families, groups and corporate participants. The categories include Regular tickets at ₦5,000, VIP tickets at ₦20,000, Group of Four tickets at ₦100,000, Premium Family Table of 10 at ₦500,000, Sponsorship Tables at ₦1 million and Exclusive Tables for ₦2 Million. Bookings are also open to vendors and exhibitors interested in securing spaces to display and market their products and services during the festival.


With its blend of cultural exhibition, entertainment, awards and business opportunities, Abuja South South Fest 2026 is expected to offer a unique platform for the South South residents in Abuja to celebrate its roots, strengthen bonds and promote the cultural richness of the region, while fostering unity in diversity.

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