Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has backed the ongoing nationwide strike by the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors, NARD. The resident doctors have declared strike over the federal government’s plan to stop the implementation of the revised professional allowance table, PAT.
Shuaibu Ibrahim, NARD’s secretary-general, gave the order on the members to go on strike, after the association’s virtual extraordinary national executive council, NEC. The strike, he said, will commence on Tuesday.
In his reaction, Abubakar said it was wrong for the government to enter an agreement with the doctors, and not renege. He said the doctors are very important to the country because they are the ‘first line’ of defence in Nigeria’s health sector which is almost collapsing.
Abubakar: “The Federal Government signed a deal on the Professional Allowance Table, and now it wants to abandon it. This is not governance; it is betrayal.
“Our resident doctors are the last line of defence in hospitals that are already collapsing. They work gruelling hours, in impossible conditions, for pay that insults their sacrifice. And now, the government seeks to take away the little that was promised? The Tinubu administration must demonstrate commitment to the issues: 19 months of unpaid Professional Allowance arrears; promotion arrears gathering dust; a Medical Residency Training Fund stuck in bureaucratic limbo; and a government that treats its doctors as an afterthought and remains unconcerned as they flee the country in droves.
“Every doctor Nigeria loses to the UK, Canada, or Saudi Arabia is a failure of leadership, not a failure of patriotism. You cannot ask people to serve a nation that refuses to honour its own word.
“I stand with NARD. Pay what you owe. Honour what you signed. Or explain to 200 million Nigerians why their hospitals will go dark on Tuesday.”
Strike: Why Atiku Backed Resident Doctors
Wike Banned By Broadcasters For Threatening To Shoot Channels TV’s Seun Okinbaloye
By Adesina Soyooye
Minister for the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Nyesom Wike, has been penalised by the Independent Broadcast Association of Nigeria (IBAN) for threatening to shoot Channel Television’son Seun Okinbaloye’s over his method of interviewing his guests.
IBAN made the announcement, on Sunday, of its decision to boycott press briefings by Wike until he retracts his threat to shoot Channels Okinbaloye, and tender public apology for the threat.
IBAN is the recognised umbrella body representing the interests of all independent broadcast stations across the country.
Wike had, on Friday, April 3, 2026, during his monthly Press Interview Television/briefing said that he felt like shooting journalist Seun Okinbaloye while listening to him interview a guest:
Wike: “If there was any way to break the screen, I would have shot him.”
IBAN, in a statement signed by the Chairman, Alh (Dr) Ahmed Tijani Ramalan, and Acting General Secretary, Fidelis Duker said: “While the Minister has since indicated he did not intend physical harm, IBAN believes that any expression of violent intent – even hypothetical – is inappropriate for a public official. Such language can be perceived as intimidation and risks normalising hostility toward the media.
Nigeria currently ranks 122 out of 180 countries on the Press Freedom Index.
“Journalists already face significant challenges, including surveillance, attacks, and arbitrary arrests. Remarks of this nature from a senior government figure only worsen an already difficult environment for media professionals.”
For peace to reign IBAN gave its conditions to the FCT Minister. They are:
1. Fully retract the statement in clear terms.
2. Issue a public apology to Mr. Seun Okinbaloye and the broader media community.
3. Reaffirm his commitment to non-violence and respect for press freedom, consistent with Sections 22 and 39 of the Nigerian Constitution (1999, as amended).
It directed a boycott thus:
“Should the Minister fail to meet these requests within a reasonable period, IBAN will have no choice but to advise all independent broadcast stations – whose interests this association solely represents – to suspend coverage of all press briefings, media chats, and official news conferences hosted by the FCT Minister.
“This is not a step IBAN takes lightly. However, independent broadcasters must protect their personnel and uphold the principle that violent rhetoric will not be normalised or rewarded with platform access.”
IBAN emphasised its commitment to constructively engage with public officials.
It said: “We hope the Minister will take the necessary corrective action so that normal coverage can continue without interruption. The ball is in his court.”
The Minister, however, in a statement signed by Lere Olayinka, his Special Adviser said his Principal spoke figuratively and never meant that he could have shot Okinbaloye and disclosed that both the Minister and the Journalist spoke on Saturday – a day after the Minister’s tactless comment.
INEC Suspends Voters Revalidation Exercise
By Suleiman Anyalewechi
The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, has announced the suspension of its planned controversial voters revalidation exercise across the country.
The Commission has directed all Resident Electoral Commissioners to henceforth, temporarily, halt all publicity and arraignments in relation to the exercise.
The Source reports that INEC’s decision to embark on a nationwide voter revalidation exercise ahead of the 2027 general elections had been trailed by widespread indignation and outright condemnation by individuals, religious and community leaders, political parties, particularly the opposition and other interest groups who expressed the fears that the exercise, apart from smacking of a hidden agenda, is a recipe for chaos.
The Commission which had earlier scheduled April 13, 2026 for the commencement of the exercise, however, in a notice issued by its Secretary, Rose Oriaran-Anthony, dated April 4, 2026 while announcing the suspension, asked all RECs to wait for further directives.
“RECs are also directed to step down all publicity and arraignments for the voter revalidation exercise and await further directives from the Commission”, the notice partly reads.
This is as the Commission also directed the RECs to continue all other necessary preparations for the exercise, including the sourcing of personnel as well as preparing INEC Voter Enrollment Devices.
The notice, also, informed about a virtual meeting scheduled for April 9,2026 between the Commission and the RECs.
“Further to the notice of meeting dated April 3,2026, please be informed that the meeting with Resident Electoral Commissioners scheduled for Thursday April 9, 2026, at 11:00 am, will now hold virtually via Zoom.
“Consequently, RECs are advised to remain in their States, and await the log-in details which will be shared once the meeting is set up”, the Commission added.
Terrorists Attack Police Area Division In Borno, Kill Four Policemen
By Ayodele Oni
While their families were waiting for their return to celebrate Easter with them, four police officers lay dead following an attack by Boko Haram/ISWAP insurgents on a divisional police headquarters in Borno State.
According to security analyst Zagazola Makama, the attack took place around 1:00 a.m. on April 4, 2026, revising earlier reports that suggested it occurred late on April 3.
The incident targeted the Nghanzai Divisional Police Headquarters, where heavily armed attackers reportedly stormed in large numbers.
Security sources disclosed that the assailants engaged officers in a prolonged gun battle before eventually overpowering them.
The confirmed casualties include Inspectors Samuel Ezekiel, Sanusi Mohammed, and Police Constables Bitrus Luka and Shaibu Bukar, all of whom were attached to different units.
The attack highlights the persistent security challenges in Borno, a region long plagued by insurgency linked to Boko Haram and its splinter faction, Islamic State West Africa Province.
In a related development, suspected insurgents also carried out a separate late-night raid on Kwapul community in Chibok Local Government Area.
Residents reported that the attackers set a Church and several homes ablaze during the coordinated assault, which lasted for hours.
Although no deaths were recorded in the Chibok incident, the attack left many residents displaced and traumatized.
Locals lamented the lack of immediate resistance, raising concerns about the vulnerability of rural communities despite ongoing counterinsurgency operations.
The latest wave of violence comes during the Easter season, a period that has historically seen increased attacks in parts of northeastern Nigeria.
ADC: Bala Nafiu Gombe Now Living, Moving Like A State Governor – Atiku
By Suleiman Anyalewechi
Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, has alleged that the self-acclaimed factional Chairman of the opposition Coalition platform, African Democratic Congress, ADC, is now behaving like the 37th state Governor of Nigeria.
Atiku, a prominent figure in the ADC, and one of its Presidential hopefuls said Nafiu Gombe is now moving with security details and convoy just like a State Governor.
In an interview with DW Hausa, Atiku insisted that what is currently playing out in the opposition Coalition is the handiwork of external and establishment forces who are uncomfortable with the rising profile of the ADC.
According to him, going by the sudden lavish lifestyle of Nafiu Gombe and the heavy security around him, it is evidently clear that he is being sponsored by the powers-that-be to disrupt the activities of the ADC.
He emphasized that the growing influence and widespread acceptance of the opposition Coalition has completely unnerved the establishment so much so that they are desperately shopping for ways of undermining the party ahead of the 2027 polls.
“What is happening is external interference. Some individuals have been bought over and used because certain interests have noticed that the party is gaining traction by the day and they have come to perceive this growth as a threat to their veiled ambition”, Atiku posted.
The former Vice President questioned the sources of the sudden affluence ,and lavish lifestyle being displayed by Nafiu Gombe.
According to him, the sudden flamboyant lifestyle of Nafiu Gombe is a clear testimonial to the fact that he is being sponsored by forces within the establishment.
“How can someone who is claiming to be the ADC Chairman suddenly be provided with security, fleet of vehicles and a residence?
“It clearly points to outside influence. We have evidence to that effect. We know where he resides, and we observe how he moves around, almost like a Governor”, Atiku noted
But despite the heavy security ring around him, Atiku stated that Nafiu Gombe has so far refrained from setting his feet in his home town and state ever since the commencement of the orchestrated crisis.
“Since the beginning of the crisis, he has not traveled to his hometown. Why is he afraid to visit home?, he queried.
However, the ADC Presidential hopeful maintained that despite the sinister move to truncate and disrupt its activities, the opposition Coalition has continued to gain momentum with more people coming forward to register and identify with the party.
This is as he noted that the party and its leadership are not in any way perturbed by the antics of some disruptive forces using the Independent National Electoral Commission INEC.
The source reports that the electoral body shocked not a few on Wednesday, April 1, 2026 when it announced its decision to withdraw recognition for the Senator David Mark-led National Executive Committee NEC.
According to Mohammed Kudu Haruna INEC’s National Commissioner and Chairman Information and Voter Education Committee ,the decision to halt all dealings with both parties in the ADC leadership tussle was derived from a subsisting Court of Appeal judgment directing for the maintenance of status quo ante bellum pending the determination of legal proceedings in relation to the matter.
But Atiku, in the interview, insisted that the Commission was prodded more by some external influence, than any court order in its action.
“Of course, we shouldn’t have to say it, but this is external interference. They are using someone because they see our party getting stronger by the day, and they think it will be a threat to them if we continue to grow”, he noted
But according to the former Vice President, the party has continued to flourish and have been gaining new grounds amidst the ongoing crisis.
He emphasized that the party has continued to attract Nigerians from all walks of life, particularly the youths who see in the ADC the only road to redemption.
FG Pays N3.3 Trillion To Boost Power Generation
By Ayodele Oni
Nigerians are set to enjoy stable power as the ten years debt of N3.3 trillion incurred under Presidential Power Sector Financial Reforms Programme is now due for settlement.
President Bola Tinubu has approved the payment plan to finally settle the outstanding debts
A statement on Sunday by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President (Information and Strategy) stated that the debt repayment plan followed the final review of the legacy debts that have beset the power sector for more than a decade.
The statement reveals that “The long-standing debts accumulated between February 2015 and March 2025. Following verification, ₦3.3 trillion has been agreed as a full and final settlement, ensuring a fair and transparent resolution.
“Implementation has begun, with 15 power plants signing settlement agreements totalling ₦2.3 trillion. The Federal Government has already raised ₦501 billion to fund these payments.
“Out of the amount, N223 billion has been disbursed, with further payments underway.
“What this means for Nigerians: With payments reaching the power value chain, generation will be more stable. With power plants supported, electricity reliability will improve.
“And as the sector stabilises, more investment, more jobs, and better service will follow.
“This programme is not just about settling legacy debts. It is about restoring confidence across the power sector — ensuring gas suppliers are paid, power plants can keep running, and the system begins to work more reliably,” explained Olu Arowolo-Verheijen, Special Adviser on Energy to President Tinubu.
“It is part of a broader set of reforms already underway — including better metering and service-based tariffs that link what you pay to the quality of electricity you receive.
“The government is also prioritising power supply to businesses, industries, and small enterprises — because reliable electricity is critical to creating jobs, supporting livelihoods, and growing the economy.
“The goal is simple: more reliable power for homes, stronger support for businesses, and a system that works better for all Nigerians,” she added.
President Tinubu has commended all stakeholders who supported efforts to resolve the legacy issues in the power sector. He has also confirmed that the next phase (Series II) will begin this quarter.
At Easter, ADC Urges The People To Keep The Faith Amidst Temporary Distractions
By Suleiman Anyalewechi
The National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress, ADC, Senator David Mark, has tasked Nigerians on the need to imbibe the virtues of sacrifice, peace and national unity.
This is as he reassured that the ADC remains strong, united and unshaken amidst its present orchestrated challenges.
In an Easter message on Sunday April 5, 2026, Mark enjoined Nigerians to reflect on the virtues of love, selflessness, forgiveness and sacrifice, characteristics which he noted defined Jesus Christ.
The former Senate President emphasized the importance of Nigerians irrespective of political, religious and ethnic background and persuasion to pursue and promote peaceful co-existence, and respect for one another.
According to him, the nation’s diversity , should be perceived as a huge source of strength rather than division.
He urged Nigerians, particularly, supporters and sympathizers of the ADC to remain calm, law-abiding and keep the faith, assuring that the party is focused and committed even in the face of unprovoked distractions and orchestrated disruptive plots.
Mark noted that the temporary challenge, rather than dampen momentum as envisaged by detractors, has, instead, strengthened the party’s resolve and commitment to democratic principles, and readiness for the delivery of good governance in Nigeria.
“ADC remains focused and unwavering in its mission to enthrone democratic ethos, uphold the rule of law, and provide purposeful leadership that addresses the needs and aspirations of Nigerians” the ADC National Chairman added.
He reassured of the unflinching determination of the ADC not only to offer Nigerians a credible alternative democratic platform, but leading the people to victory in 2027 .
He appealed to Nigerians to use the auspicious occasion of the Easter celebration to renew their faith and hope for a better Nigeria, assuring that the ADC remain committed to the struggle.
Insecurity: NGIJ Urges Security Chiefs To Step-up Or Resign
By Akinwale Kasali
Following the spate of insecurity and killings bedeviling the country, foremost Investigative Media Group, Nigerian Guild of Investigative Journalists, NGIJ, has issued a strongly-worded Easter message to the nation’s Security Chiefs.
Condemning the worsening insecurity and demanding urgent action from the Security Chiefs, NGIJ said it was necessary and a matter of urgency for them to up the ante in bringing an end to the insecurity crisis and killings all over the country, most especially the Jos Killings on Palm Sunday and the communal clashes in Nasarawa State that aimed the lives of over 13 persons with several persons injured, and hundreds rendered homeless.
In a statement signed by its National President, Abdulrahman Aliagan, and National Secretary, Rowland Olonishuwa, the Guild said Nigeria must confront its security failures without delay.
The Guild congratulated Christians across Nigeria and the world on the Easter celebration, noting that the season crowns weeks of sacrifice, reflection, and spiritual renewal.
It also acknowledged that Muslims recently concluded Ramadan and celebrated Eid al-Fitr, describing both religious observances as powerful symbols of discipline and devotion.
NGIJ said the overlapping spiritual journeys of Christians and Muslims highlight a shared national lesson on unity and peaceful coexistence.
However, the Guild warned that the current security reality contradicts those values, as many communities continue to live in utter dread.
It described the recent killings in Jos as a grim reminder of deep cracks within the nation’s security architecture pointing out that the violence goes beyond headlines, insisting that it reflects systemic failure.
NGIJ condemned the bloodshed in the strongest terms possible and criticised what it called the growing helplessness of authorities. It argued that routine condemnations and post-attack visits by the relevant authorities saddled with the responsibility of securing lives and properties no longer satisfy public expectations.
The statement stressed that repeated promises without visible results only deepen public frustration and grief.
NGIJ maintained that every Nigerian deserves safety at home, in places of worship, and in public spaces while stressing that government must treat that responsibility as a non-negotiable duty.
The Guild urged Security Chiefs to respond with urgency, intelligence, and clear results.
It also insisted that those unable to guarantee safety should step aside for more capable leadership.
NGIJ also clarified that its position reflects a moral duty rather than political bias while noting that Easter symbolises sacrifice, accountability, and renewal, adding that real change requires courage and action.
It warned Nigerians against yielding to fear or division despite the tense climate and encouraged citizens to protect unity and resist forces that thrive on chaos.
The Guild reaffirmed its commitment to investigative journalism, promising to pursue truth and hold power accountable. It also pledged to amplify the voices of victims often ignored in national discourse.
NGIJ concluded that hope must translate into action, urging the nation to confront its challenges with urgency.
David Mark Remains ADC National Chairman
By Ayodele Oni
Senator David Mark has affirmed his position as the National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress, ADC. He is not contemplating any resignation, it is affirmed.
ADC dismissed as false and malicious reports alleging that Mark, its National Chairman has stepped down from his position.
In a statement issued by the Media Office of the National Chairman, on Sunday, the party described the claim as “an insidious fabrication” orchestrated by individuals it termed as “puerile, weak, and inconsiderate propagandists.”
The statement categorically affirmed that Senator Mark remains the substantive National Chairman of the party, stressing that there is no contemplation whatsoever of his resignation either by him or the leadership of the ADC.
“The assertion that Senator David Mark has stepped down exists only in the warped imagination of those bent on spreading falsehood and creating confusion within our party,” the statement read.
The party further emphasized that the ADC leadership remains united, focused, and resolute in its mission to strengthen democratic values and provide credible leadership to Nigerians.
It also warned against attempts to destabilize the party, noting that such efforts are driven by fear of the ADC’s growing influence and the emerging political permutations ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“The ADC, its leadership, and the majority of Nigerians are unbending in their collective determination to resist any plot aimed at undermining Nigeria’s multi-party democracy or imposing a one-party system,” the statement added.
Reaffirming its commitment to democratic ideals, the party called on Nigerians to disregard the rumours and remain confident in the leadership and stability of the ADC.
Former Benue LGA Chairman, Wife Die Four Days Apart, To Be Buried April 10
By Adesina Soyooye
For a former Chairman of Konshisha Local Area, Moses Shirsha and his wife, Mercy, death could not keep them apart.
In death, they chose to be together and inseparable as both passed four days apart.
First to pass on was Mercy Mngu Shirsha. Her husband, the former LGA Chairman, said to be very close to his wife, followed her four days later.
Family, friends and the people of Konshisha LGA are frozen in shock as they could not explain why the couple died four days apart leaving a devastated family. All a few of them could whisper is that “they were too close to stay apart.”
Mr Shirsha, according to reports, suddenly slumped and died while he was still trying to process the passing of his wife and begin arrangements for her funeral.
A former staff member of the deceased, Ukeyima John Ukmoni, who confirmed the double tragic loss in a facebook post lamented: “With deep sorrow but total submission to the will of God, this is the burial arrangement of my first boss Hon Moses Shirsha (former Chairman Konshisha LG), the very first man I ever worked for, who departed this life after hearing the shocking loss of his beloved wife Mrs Shirsha Mercy Mngu.”
According to the details shared on the post disclosed that a wake will take place on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at the late chairman’s residence in Makurdi.
The former Chairman and his wife are scheduled to be buried on Friday, April 10, 2026, at their family compound in Shirsha Adeega Village, Mbaasuku, Mbator Gaav, located in Konshisha LGA.