Bandits Storm Akure, Ondo Hospital, Abduct Health Workers On Duty Post

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March 28, 2026

By Ayodele Oni

Bandits operating in the suburbs of Akure, Ondo State Capital have shifted operations to the State capital with the abduction of six health workers at their duty post.

The health workers were abducted during a midnight attack on a health facility in the Oke Ijebu area of Akure, throwing residents into panic and fear.

The attack, which occurred around 2:00 a.m. on Saturday, was carried out at a health centre opposite Mega School, where the gunmen reportedly arrived in a large bus and forcefully gained entry into the premises.

Three of them have however been rescued by a team of Amotekun personnel on night duty following prompt contact.

Eyewitness accounts revealed that the attackers overpowered the few people present at the facility and systematically rounded up health workers, including interns who were on night duty.

One of the patients at the centre, who narrowly escaped the ordeal, recounted that the gunmen operated with precision and speed, leaving little room for resistance.

“They came in a big bus and entered the hospital forcefully. Before anyone could react, they gathered all the staff on duty and marched them outside. They took about six of them away,” the witness said.

The abductors reportedly bundled the victims into the waiting vehicle and sped off to an unknown destination, throwing the entire community into confusion and distress.

Meanwhile, operatives of the Ondo State Security Network Agency, codenamed Amotekun, have rescued three of the health workers and two other victims during two separate overnight operations in Akure South Local Government Area of the state.

The Corps Commander, Akogun Adetunji Adeleye, who confirmed the development, on Saturday, disclosed that a 45-year-old man and his 15-year-old son were earlier abducted at Pelebe in the outskirts of Oda Akure road between 7:30 p.m. and 8:00 p.m.

The victims were rescued by the Rapid Response squad of Amotekun corps about 1:00 a.m after heavy confrontation with the Kidnappers.

Adeleye further revealed that three health workers earlier abducted also regained their freedom at about 4:30 am and are currently receiving treatment at undisclosed health facility.

The Amotekun commander assured residents that safety of lives and property remains a top priority for the state government.

He urged members of the public to continue to provide timely and adequate information to security agencies, emphasizing the need for collective efforts to enhance safety across the state.

PDP Crisis: Turaki Faction Explains Supreme Court Move Despite Reconciliation Efforts; Wike Playing God

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James Orji

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March 28, 2026

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The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Turaki faction, reportedly backed by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde and Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, has justified its decision to approach the Supreme Court over the party’s lingering leadership crisis, despite ongoing reconciliation efforts.

The move follows a recent judgment by the Court of Appeal in Abuja, which nullified the party’s convention held in Ibadan, Oyo State. The ruling has strengthened a rival faction allegedly backed by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, positioning it as the authentic leadership of the party.

However, in a development that has raised concerns among political observers, the Turaki faction on Friday filed an appeal at the Supreme Court, even as negotiations to resolve the internal dispute continue.

Speaking on the development, the faction’s National Publicity Secretary, Ini Ememobong, said the decision by its National Working Committee (NWC) to challenge the appellate court’s judgment does not undermine ongoing reconciliation efforts.

According to him, the faction is pursuing both legal and political solutions simultaneously.

“It is only God who can give an answer whether the negotiation will eventually work or not. Only God can give that answer. But our duty is to act in utmost good faith towards that destination,” he said.

Ememobong added that the faction cannot rely solely on negotiations, accusing the rival group of attempting to dominate the crisis.

“Because at the end of the day, if men choose to play God, God will become God. We are opposed to the deification of man and the magnification of God. Men must be men and God must be God.”

Meanwhile, the Wike-backed faction is set to hold its elective National Convention in Abuja, a move strongly opposed by the Turaki group, which argues that proceeding with the convention undermines the spirit of ongoing reconciliation talks.

The development underscores deepening divisions within the PDP, raising further questions about the prospects of a unified resolution to the protracted leadership crisis.

ICPC Grants Temporary Release To Fmr Gov. El-Rufai For Mother’s Burial

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Ayodele Oni

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March 28, 2026

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By Ayodele Oni

The remains of Hajiya Umma, mother of former Kaduna state Governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai are expected to be flown from Cairo to Nigeria on Saturday, for burial in accordance with Islamic rites.

Hajiya Umma, a centenarian and matriarch of the El-Rufai family, reportedly died following a period of age-related illness.

Already, the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has temporarily released the former Governor to enable him pay last respect to his deceased mother.

The decision came late Friday night, just hours after the news broke that his mother, Hajiya Umma, had passed away in Cairo, Egypt.

El-Rufai, who has been in custody since February 16, 2026, was granted a temporary administrative release to allow him to attend the funeral rites of his late mother.

His son, Bashir El-Rufai, confirmed the release on X (formerly Twitter), describing his father’s detention as “unlawful and illegal” while thanking Nigerians for their overwhelming support.

President Bola Tinubu in a condolence message, stated, “As someone who has also lost an old mother, I share in your grief.”

Atiku Abubakar and Governor Uba Sani also sent tributes, praising the late Hajiya Umma for her “moral clarity and quiet strength.”

National Security Adviser, (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, whom El-Rufai has previously accused of being behind his legal woes, also issued a statement of condolence, remembering her “motherly care.”

APC Convention: Yilwatda, Basiru Emerge Chairman, Secretary Through Consensus

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James Orji

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March 28, 2026

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Professor Nentawe Yilwatda and Senator Ajibola Basiru as National Chairman and National Secretary have been re-elected as the National Chairman and National Secretary of the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC.

They were both returned to their positions through consensus during the party’s 4th Elective National Convention at Eagles Square, Abuja, the nation’s capital.

The Convention was attened by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his wife, Remi, including Vice President Kassim Shetima, Senate President Godswill Akabio, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abass, amongst others.

Apart from Prof. Yilwatda and B asiru, other officials of the party were also elected based on consensus into the party’s National Working Committee, NWC.

Speaking during the event, the Chairman of the Convention, former Governor Aminu Bello Msari said the opposition political parties in the country cannot compete with the ruling party, citing, for instance, the African Democratic Party, ADC, as old politicians who have nothing new to offer the country.

Masari, a former Speaker of the House of Representative, while speaking to journalists, dismissed the ADC as a viable alternative platforms for next year’s election, saying there’s nothing new about its leaders, who he described as old politicians who have been in politics for nothing less than ‘20 years.’

He said APC is ‘number one’ party in the country in terms of popularity, saying the ruling party is prepared to defeat the opposition again in 2027.

“You have not shown me anybody new in this business that we don’t know, that we have not participated with, or that we have not contested elections against,” he said

“In terms of popularity, APC is number one, whatever the permutations,” he said.

He added that the party is fully prepared for the 2027 elections and is not intimidated by emerging opposition coalitions.

“As a party, we are not afraid. We are very ready,” the former governor said. .

Gov Sule Debunks Alleged Meeting With Atiku In Saudi Arabia

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Suleiman Anyalewechi

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March 27, 2026

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By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Nasarawa State authorities have strongly rejected claims that Governor Abdullahi Sule held secret meetings with former Vice president Atiku Abubakar while in the Holy Land for the lesser Hajj.

A section of the media had claimed that the two Northern political leaders met at the Conrad Jabal Omar Hotel in Mecca and had fruitful discussions during Ramadan breakfast regarding a possible alignment ahead the 2027 general elections.

The former Vice President who is one of the Presidential hopefuls on the platform of the African Democratic Congress, ADC, is aspiring to challenge President Bola Tinubu in the polls come 2027.

According to reports, the Nasarawa state Governor who is an APC stalwart, allegedly, besides assuring Atiku of his support, also, pledged cash donations to promote his ambition.

But a statement from Ibrahim Addra, his spokesperson, described the purported secret meeting between Governor Sule and Atiku as the handiwork of political detractors trying desperately to undermine the cordial relationship between the Governor and President Tinubu.

The Governor’s Chief Press Secretary emphasized that Atiku’s media aide, Paul Ibe, had earlier claimed no knowledge of such a meeting

According to Addra, the Nasarawa State Governor has no intention to deviate from his known political alignment.

He noted that Governor Sule, at different political fora, had lauded the general direction of President Tinubu, as well as reaffirming his unalloyed loyalty.

The Governor’s spokesperson who described the reports of the secret meeting as false, misleading and mischievous, however, assured that no orchestrated smear campaign and blackmail will rupture the good relationship between Governor Sule and President Tinubu.

Kano Deputy Governor Resigns

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Suleiman Anyalewechi

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March 27, 2026

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Aminu Abdulsalam Gwarzo - Kano Deputy Governor

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The embattled Deputy Governor of Kano State, Comrade Aminu Abdulssalam Gwarzo has resigned from office.

The Source reports that the sudden resignation came just 48 hours after the Deputy Governor lost his bid to stop his ongoing impeachment proceedings by the State Lawmakers at a Federal High Court in Kano.

Before the commencement of the impeachment proceedings, the Deputy Governor had been under intense pressure to vacate his seat after refusing to follow Governor Abba Kabiru Yusuf to the All Progressive Congress.

Governor Yusuf had, in a move that jolted not a few late February, 2025, resigned his membership of the New Nigeria Peoples Party, NNPP, and subsequently joined forces with the APC alongside majority of his cabinet members and appointees, members of the State House of Assembly and the Chairmen of the 44 Local Councils of Kano.

However, his Deputy and some appointees decided to stick with the Kwankwasiyya movement and its Leader, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.

But while the appointed Government officials, including Commissioners and Special Advisers, resigned from their appointments, the Deputy Governor remained on his seat forcing the State Legislators to commence impeachment moves against him.

A statement from Dr Habibu Sale , the spokesperson for the Kwankwasiyya Movement ,on Friday, March 27, 2026, informed that the resignation of the Deputy Governor, though a difficult decision, was taken in the overall interest of the people as well as stability of governance.

However, he warned that the resignation should not be misconstrued to be an admission of the allegations leveled against him by the state Lawmakers.

“The Kwankwasiyya Movement wishes to formally inform the general public, the good people of Kano state and the entire nation that the Deputy Governor of Kano State has tendered his resignation letter from office.

“Recent circumstances have, to a considerable extent, constrained the full realization of the benefits and responsibilities attached to the office of the Deputy Governor.

“In view of this, it has become imperative to allow the office to function optimally in the best interest of the public it is meant to serve.

“For the avoidance of doubt, this resignation does not, in any way, constitute an admission of the allegations raised against him by the Kano state House of Assembly.

“The Deputy Governor maintains his innocence and firmly believes that his records in office and public service remain a testament to his integrity and commitment to the people.

“The Deputy Governor has resolved to dedicate more time and energy to the Kwankwasiyya Movement ahead of the 2027 general elections”, the statement reads in part.

Super Eagles Fly Over Iran, Set For Jordan Cracker

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Akinwale Kasali

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March 27, 2026

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By Akinwale Kasali

The Super Eagles recorded a 2-1 victory over the Iranian national football team in a friendly match on Friday.

Goals from Moses Simon and Akor Adams gave the Super Eagles a 2-0 lead. Simon found the back of the net in the 7th minute, assisted by Samuel Chukwueze.

The Super Eagles doubled their lead in the 52nd minute through Akor Adams, set up by Ademola Lookman.

Mehdi Taremi pulled one back for Iran in the 67th minute, but Nigeria held on to secure the win.

The friendly is part of Nigeria’s preparations for upcoming fixtures, giving Coach Eric Chelle the opportunity to test combinations and sharpen the squad ahead of competitive matches.

Super Eagles will face Jordanian national football team on March 31 at Mardan Stadyumu in Antalya, Turkey. The match is part of a four-nation tournament designed to provide competitive action for teams that have qualified for the World Cup and for squad rebuilding.

Despite these preparations, Nigeria will not participate in the World Cup in June, making these friendlies crucial for team development and maintaining momentum.

Ondo: Middle Aged Job Seeker Attempts To Stab Monarch With Knife

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Ayodele Oni

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March 27, 2026

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By Ayodele Oni

A middle aged man, identified as Tope Adelani is being held by security agents in Ondo state over an alleged attempt to stab to death a traditional ruler in Akoko area.

The incident happened at Ogbagi Akoko community, on Thursday evening following as the Owa, Oba Victor Olasehinde Adetona, escaped what could have led to his untimely death.

Sources disclosed that the suspect had earlier visited the palace to seek employment as a driver.

However, the Monarch reportedly informed him that there was no vacancy at the moment while assuring him that he would be contacted when an opportunity becomes available.

It was gathered that shortly after the interaction, the monarch left the palace for his farm, leaving the suspect within the palace premises.

Trouble, however, started upon the monarch’s return, as the suspect allegedly trailed him into the palace and forcefully seized his two mobile phones, switched them off in what appeared to be an attempt to prevent him from calling for help.

Eyewitness accounts revealed that the situation quickly escalated into a violent confrontation, during which the suspect allegedly attacked the monarch.

In the ensuing struggle, Oba Adetona sustained injuries and was immediately attended to by medical personnel. His condition, as of the time of filing this report, was said to be stable.

A knife was reportedly recovered from the suspect after he was overpowered, raising concerns over the motive and possible premeditation of the attack.

The suspect was subsequently apprehended and handed over to law enforcement authorities, who have since commenced investigation into the incident.

Meanwhile, the shocking development has thrown the community into anxiety, with residents expressing fears over the safety of the traditional ruler and calling for improved security within palace premises.

The State Police Command, through the spokesman, Abayomi Jimoh stated that it is aware of the development.

“However, it is important to clarify that the case in question was not reported to the Police, but to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).”

Payments For Expression Of Interest, Nomination Forms By Aspirants Non Refundable – APC

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Ayodele Oni

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March 27, 2026

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By Ayodele Oni

As the national convention of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) kicked off in Abuja on Friday, the National Publicity Secretary of the party, Felix Morka, has revealed that aspirants for offices in the party will not be refunded in case they lose out.

According to him, the party expects aspirants to be fully aware of eligibility requirements, including the constituencies they intend to contest, prior to making payments for nomination forms.

There have been agitations from some aspirants in Rivers state that claimed they were not issued with nomination forms after paying the required fees.

Morka made the clarification on Friday during an appearance on Arise Television’s The Morning Show, as the party’s convention is ongoing in Abuja.

He emphasized that payments for expression of interest and nomination forms are typically non-refundable, saying that candidates should ensure they meet the necessary criteria before submitting any fees.

Morka added that although refunds are generally not provided, individuals who encounter issues may formally request reimbursement, which the party will review on a case-by-case basis.

He highlighted that while the party usually presumes applicants understand the requirements, exceptions have been made historically under special circumstances.

He stated, “Normally, payments for expression of interest and nomination forms are not refundable. The party presumes that applicants know what they are applying for.

“If someone applies for a position outside the constituency, that responsibility lies with the applicant. However, there have been instances where refunds were issued for special considerations, and such requests will be given due consideration by the party.”

Detained El-Rufai Loses Mother

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Suleiman Anyalewechi

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March 27, 2026

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By Suleiman Anyalewechi

Hajia Umma El-Rufai, mother of the embattled former Governor of Kaduna State Malam Nasir El-Rufai is dead.

Her death came as El-Rufai battles to regain his freedom from the custody of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission, ICPC, which has been holding him since February 18, 2026.

Hajia Umma El-Rufai’s passing was made public on Friday, March 27, 2026, by her grand son on his Facebook page.

” Inna lillahi WA inna lillahi raji’un . From Allah SWT, we came ,and to Him we shall return. I would like to inform the public of the demise of my Grandmother ,Hajiya Umma El-Rufai who passed away a few hours.

” We are grateful for the life she lived and may Allah SWT bless her gentle soul . May He bless soul of the parents we have lost.

“On behalf of our family, we seek your prayers .Thank you” he wrote .

Although details of her death were not disclosed, Hajiya Umma El-Rufai was said to have died in Egypt where she was receiving medical attention.

The source reports that going by the March, 31, 2026 adjourned date by a Federal High Court, Kaduna Division, to rule on his bail application, El-Rufai is surely bound to miss both the burial and the three-day prayers for his late mother.

The former Kaduna State Governor is facing inter-agency investigations on multiple charges bordering on alleged money laundering diversion of public funds and security related Offences. The ICPC formally arraigned him on Tuesday March 24,2026 before Honourable Justice Rilwan Aikawa of Kaduna Federal High Court.