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Adamawa PDP Says Atiku’s Exit, Good Riddance

July 29, 2025

The Adamawa State chapter of the People’s Democratic Party, PDP, has dismissed claims that the exit of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar from the party could spell doom for the party in the state.

A chieftain of the PDP in the state who doubles as its organising secretary Hamza Madagali, told Punch that Abubakar will not be missed, adding that the party’s structure is bigger than any individual.

Adamawa is controlled by the PDP as the ruling party but Governor Umaru Fintiri, a former ally of Abubakar had lately joined the faction led by the FCT minister, Nyesom Wike to fight the former Vice President.

Some analysts even posit that Governor Fintiri may be rooting for the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who Wike is working for to come back to office in 2027.

The development, sources said forced Abubakar out of the party, after realising that his presidential ambition is seriously endangered with Governor Fintiri and Wike in tow with the Tinubu’s re-election bid.

According to those watching the politics of the state closely, the fortunes of the party in the state could nosedive considering that Abubakar, a big fish in the PDP, as one of its founding fathers, and until recently a strong member and financier, had left.

Abubakar, had recently resigned officially from the PDP to join the African Democratic Congress, ADC, citing the fact that the party has been hijacked by money bags. But his opponents had replied him, saying he left because his influence has been whittled down, by forces stronger than him, and the possibility of him securing the party’s ticket for the 2027 presidential election has become almost impossible.

According to Magadali, only three officials of the PDP in the state of the 286 state executives cuting across the local governments and wards, decided to join Abubakar in the ADC, adding that their exit will not affect the party’s chances in the 2027 election.

He said, “The Jada Local Government PDP chairman, the women leader, and one other ward executive member were the only three that joined the former vice president in his new party,

“Adamawa PDP shares have been over subscribed by the people, so collapsing such a great institution built by people is not an individual task.”

In a letter dated July 14 and addressed to the chairman of the PDP in his Jada 1 Ward, Jada Local Government Area of Adamawa State, Abubakar said his resignation was based on the fact that the leadership of the party no longer adhere to the principles established by the party’s founding leaders.

“I find it necessary to part ways due to the current trajectory the Party has taken, which I believe diverges from the foundational principles we stood for,” he wrote “It is with a heavy heart that I resign, recognizing the irreconcilable differences that have emerged.”

2027: Obi Will Return To PDP

James Orji

July 29, 2025

The 2023 Presidential candidate of the Labour Party, LP, is planning to return to the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, to contest the 2027 presidential election, says Alimodu Sheriff.

Sheriff, a former governor of Borno state and a chieftain of the All Progressives congress, APC made the remark on Monday on Channels Television programme Politics Today.

The former governor said Obi is trying to achieve his presidential ambition by any means possible, and may move back to the PDP.

Recall that the former governor of Anambra state dumped the PDP ahead the 2023 election after it became clear to him that his presidential quest would not be realized in the party

He later joined the LP where he surprisingly put up a strong showing during the 2023 presidential election by coming third with over six million votes in the election that produced Bola Ahmed Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress, APC as president.

Ahead the next presidential election, political analysts insist that securing the LP presidential ticket could be very difficult for him, considering that the party is now polarised between his supporters and those of the National Chairman of the party, Julius Abure.

With the LP crisis getting worse by the day, close watchers of events in the country say Obi may look elsewhere to realized his presidential quest.

He had recently joined the coalition of opposition leaders in the country such as Atiku Abubakar, Nasir El Rufai, Rotimi Amaechi, Rauf Aregbesola under the African Democratic Congress, ADC, the party the leaders said will be used a vehicle to oust President Tinubu and APC from office.

But speaking, Sheriff said he has in on good authority that the former Anambra governor may dump the LP for the PDP, saying he has a good chance of picking the party’s presidential ticket not that Abubakar has left the party.

According to him, it has become clear that Abubakar will likely pick the ADC presidential ticket, a situation that may leave Obi in the cold, to avoid this, the former LP presidential candidate may decide to try his luck in the PDP, noting that his chances in the PDP is stronger.

“Information available to me is that any moment from now, Obi would go back to the PDP and run as a presidential candidate under the PDP,” Sheriff said.

Obi had recently disclosed that it’s for him, the president or nothing after suggestions that he has accepted to be Abubakar’s running mate in the ADC as part of the opposition forces plan to out President Tinubu from power.

“Nobody has ever discussed with me whether to be A or B or C,” Obi said. “I am going to contest for the President of Nigeria, and I believe I’m qualified,” the presidential hopeful said.

Meanwhile, the former Borno helmsman has also disclosed that the coast in now clear for President Tinubu’s re-election except for two reasons; if he decides not to run or election is not held in the country.

Rivers Local Government Polls To Hold August 30

Suleiman Anyalewechi

July 28, 2025

Rivers State Electoral Commission - RISEC

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission, RSIEC, on Monday, July 28, 2025, the unveiled its time table for the conduct of election into Local Council positions in the State.

According to the Chairman of newly constituted Commission, Cross Rivers State-born Michael Odey, the polls will hold on August 30, 2025.

This is as it announced that all electioneering campaigns for the election will commence on August 16.

Similarly, all participating political parties are expected to begin and conclude the conduct of their Primaries between July 31, and August 3, 2025.

Odey, at an interactive session with party representatives and other stakeholders held at the Commission’s Secretariat in Port Harcourt, explained that the exercise originally billed to hold on August 9,2025 was rescheduled owing to the realities on the ground.

He informed that the August 9, date was fixed before the proclamation of Emergency Rule in the State, which resulted in the disruption of the earlier plans

The Source reports that sequel to the declaration of state of emergency in the state on March 18, 2025 by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, dissolved the former Electoral body constituted by the suspended Governor , Siminalayi Fubara .

Before then, the Supreme Court, had also declared null and void an earlier polls conducted by Governor Fubara last year.

The new Commission which members were nominated by the President, was only confirmed last month by the National Assembly , which has been holding brief for the Rivers Lawmakers who were equally suspended alongside the Governor in the wake of the emergency declaration.

The RSIEC Chairman whose confirmation was marred by controversies owing to his state of origin – Cross River State, noted that the changes became imperative in the light of the change in governance structure.

The Electoral Commission’s Boss, informed that the recruitment of adhoc staff that will assist in the smooth conduct of the exercise will be held on Saturday August 16 , 2025 .

The list of successful Candidates, he added will be on display on Wednesday August 20,2025 for public viewing .

The Source further reports that apprehensions and anxiety have been building up over doubts about the Commission’s abilities in maintaining at least semblance of impartiality during the exercise

Already, there are palpable fears in some quarters , particularly, the camp of those sympathic to Governor Fubara, that the exercise, seen as very crucial in defining the control of political structures in the State ahead of the 2027 General Elections, may be tilted in favour of Nyesom Wike, the FCT Minister to enable him deliver in support of the President’s re-election bid.

Ondo: Abductors Demand N100 Million Ransom On Seven Kidnapped Farmers

Ayodele Oni

July 28, 2025

By Ayodele Oni

Abductors of seven farmers in Ondo State have placed a ransom of N100 million on them.

The farmers were abducted by gunmen at their farm in Itaogbolu, Akure North Local Government Area of Ondo State.

The Ondo State Commander of Amotekun Corps, Adetunji Adeleye, confirmed the incident on Monday.

Adeleye, who disclosed that the farmers were kidnapped on Saturday, said Amotekun officers have been deployed to the forests in search of the victims.

Adeleye said: “I can confirm the incident. Our men have been in the forests and are still there.

“I was there on Sunday and we are hopeful that they will soon be rescued.”

The Ondo State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Olushola Ayanlade, also confirmed the incident. Ayanlade added that efforts were ongoing to rescue the victims.

Meanwhile, a source disclosed that the kidnappers made contact with some families of the victims and demanded N100 million for their release.

One of the sources who craved anonymity revealed that the victims were on the farm harvesting palm fruits when they were abducted by gunmen.

He said: “They went to the farm to harvest palm fruits when they were abducted on Saturday.

“We didn’t hear from them until yesterday evening (Sunday) when the kidnappers contacted one of the family members, demanding a ransom of N100 million for their release. We’re still negotiating with their abductors.”

Dollar Rain For Victorious Super Falcons, Officials, Get National Honour, House In Abuja

Ayodele Oni

July 28, 2025

By Ayodele Oni

In appreciation of their feat at the just concluded Women’s African Cup of Nations (WAFCON), President Bola Tinubu has honoured the triumphant Super Falcons of Nigeria with national awards and generous rewards.

During a special ceremony held at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, on Monday, President Tinubu conferred the National Honour of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) on each of the 24 players of the Super Falcons team. In addition to the prestigious title, each player received a three-bedroom apartment and a cash reward of $100,000.

The President also extended the gesture to the technical crew, awarding each member of the team’s Technical Committee a cash prize of $50,000 in recognition of their role in the team’s historic comeback victory over host nation Morocco in Rabat.

President Tinubu praised the Falcons for their resilience, unity, and unwavering commitment to the nation, stating that their victory exemplified the spirit of Nigeria on the global stage.

“Your victory has brought pride and joy to millions of Nigerians. You have not only won a trophy but also inspired a nation with your courage, discipline, and tenacity,” President Tinubu said.

The 3-2 win over Morocco marked Nigeria’s 10th WAFCON title, extending their record as the most successful team in the competition’s history. The Super Falcons’ remarkable comeback from a 2-0 halftime deficit has been widely celebrated both at home and across the continent.

The awards, according to the President, are a token of appreciation for the team’s selfless service and the glory they have brought to Nigeria.

FG Seals Company Over N1.43 Trillion Illegal Lithium Mining

Suleiman Anyalewechi

July 28, 2025

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Mining Marshalls of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps NSCDC have announced the sealing of the operations of an outfit in Libata Community, Ngaski Local Government Area of Kebbi State for allegedly engaging in unlawful mining activities.

The closure which was carried out by the enforcement team of the Mining Marshalls, was preceded by an order of a Federal High Court for the sealing of the premises of Three Crown Mines LTD for defrauding the Federal Government of a whopping sum of N 1.43 trillion.

The sum represents revenue accruing to the company from a two-year illegal operations.

The sealing of the company’s premises according to the Mining Marshalls, followed the failure of the Directors to honour an invitation to appear before an investigation committee in Abuja on July 21, 2025.

The mining company which is currently under investigation by relevant authorities has been accused of engaging in large scale mineral theft and regulatory breaches.

According to the NSCDC Mining Marshalls, the accused company in concert with some unnamed foreign collaborators, is, so far alleged to have extracted lithium with a street value of N1,431,762 ,340 ,450 ,over a period of two years.

Industry regulators are accusing the mining outfit of engaging in operations far in excess of its status as a small scale mining and exploration entity, thereby encroaching on cadastre units lawfully owned by another titleholder.

According to the Mining Marshalls, the actions of the company contravene Sections 46 (2) of the 2007 Minerals and Mining Act ,and 48 of the Nigerian Mining Regulations, 2011.

“The activities of the company not only deprived the Government of critical revenue, but also undermined the legal framework protecting Nigeria’s mineral resources.

The site was shut down following a coordinated inspection by security personnel ,state mine officers ,and company representatives.

Despite a former summons, the Directors of Three Crown Mines failed to appear before investigators in Abuja on July 21, citing inconvenience, through a letter from their counsel Y C Maikyau SAN”, officials stated .

The NSCDC Mining Marshalls, however, described the position of the company as totally unacceptable and an attempt to undermine Government’s efforts at investigating its activities.

According to John Onoga, an Assistant Commandant of the NSCDC, and one of the leaders of the mining Marshalls, the team will not tolerate any attempts by mining outfits to shortchange the country.

“We will not negotiate the mineral fortune of Nigeria across any roundtable. Mineral theft is not a compoundable offence”, Onoja warned.

The NSCDC Asst Commandant further stated that the enforcement measures are in tandem with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu as well as the directives from the Minister of Solid Minerals, Dele Alake.

Lithium, a key component in global energy transition technologies, is now central to Nigeria’s economic strategy and its unchecked exploitation, according to officials, threaten both revenue and national sovereignty. Nigerian cuisine recipes.

EFCC Puts LG Officials In Ondo Under Watch

Ayodele Oni

July 28, 2025

By Ayodele Oni

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, (EFCC) has warned top management and political office holders at Local Council levels in Ondo state against running foul of ant graft laws.

The Acting Zonal Director of the Benin Zonal Office of the Commission, Effa Okim, spoke in Akure, on Monday, at the opening ceremony of a four-day sensitization training for political office holders and top management staff of local governments in the state.

Okim cautioned that failure to act in line with the principles and lessons shared during the workshop would attract appropriate consequences from the commission.

He noted that the workshop would address critical issues such as abuse of office and other unethical practices within the local government system.

Okim also assured that the collaboration between the EFCC and the Ondo State Government would be sustained in the interest of good governance.

The Governor of Ondo State, Dr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has said that his administration is committed to strengthening grassroots governance through accountability, capacity building, and a culture of transparency.

Aiyedatiwa emphasized that the workshop was not just a formal gathering, but a deliberate intervention by his administration to reposition the local government system for quality service delivery.

He described the local government as the closest tier of government to the people, and one whose effectiveness greatly determines the development of any democratic society.

“In recent years, our local governments have been confronted with myriad challenges ranging from poor service delivery to weak accountability frameworks.

This workshop is a conscious effort to reverse the trend and equip our leaders with the tools and mindset required to serve with competence and integrity.”

The Governor charged political office holders to see public service as a sacred duty, reminding them that they were elected or appointed to serve the people.

He also called on top local government officials to demonstrate professionalism, adhere to due process, and view themselves as essential partners in governance rather than mere bureaucrats.

He reiterated his administration’s resolve to institutionalize accountability and fiscal discipline across all tiers of government, saying “We shall continue to support initiatives that promote transparency, fiscal discipline, and effective monitoring and evaluation.”

The Governor explained that the training is designed to enhance participants’ grasp of core governance values, including transparency, accountability, the rule of law, and citizen engagement.

He expressed gratitude to the EFCC and other partner institutions, including the ICPC and the Ondo State Public Complaints, Financial Crimes and Anti-Corruption Commission (OSPFACC), for supporting the workshop, urging participants to take the lessons from the sessions seriously and apply them in their respective local governments.

“You are stewards of public trust. The people look up to you for leadership and results. You must not disappoint them,” he added.

Earlier in his welcome address, the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Amidu Takuro, described the workshop as a strategic move to rebuild the integrity of the local government system.

He said the training is part of broader efforts to address loopholes in public financial management and to enhance service delivery at the grassroots.

Nurses In FG Owned Health Institutions Begin Strike

Ayodele Oni

July 28, 2025

By Ayodele Oni

Medicare in Federal Government- owned Health Institutions is being threatened as National Executive Council, (NEC) of the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) declared a seven-day nationwide strike, set to begin on Tuesday, July 29, across all federal health institutions in the country.

In a strike notice jointly signed by the National Secretary, Enya Osinachi, and the President, Morakinyo-Olajide Rilwan, the association said the decision followed the Federal Government’s failure to respond to a 15-day ultimatum issued on July 14 over unresolved welfare concerns.

The announcement, made public on Monday in Abuja, followed an emergency National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held on July 10.

NANNM’s Federal Health Institutions (FHI) sector said the strike was a necessary step to compel urgent government action on critical issues affecting nurses nationwide.

“The strike, starting at 12 noon on Tuesday, July 29, will involve a total withdrawal of services across all federal health institutions,” the statement read.

The union has directed all its members to comply fully and urged nurses across the country to stand in solidarity during the industrial action.

Among its grievances, NANNM strongly rejected a circular issued on June 27 by the National Salaries, Income and Wages Commission, calling for its immediate withdrawal.

The union also demanded a review of allowances such as shift duty, call duty, and retention bonuses, which it described as outdated and inadequate.

The association emphasized the pivotal role of nurses in Nigeria’s healthcare delivery, noting that they contribute between 60 and 70 percent of hospital services.

It said improved welfare, fair treatment, and professional recognition are essential to sustaining a functional health system.

NANNM further urged the Federal Government to engage in constructive dialogue, warning that only a well-supported nursing workforce could ensure continued quality healthcare and stability in public health institutions.

FG: Universities Must Comply With Mandatory 10 Years Experience For Profs To Be Vice Chancellors

Ayodele Oni

July 28, 2025

By Ayodele Oni

Candidate Approaches Court

One of the candidates vying for the position of the Vice Chancellor of the University of Calabar, Prof Joseph Eyo Duke, has challenged one of the guidelines outlined by the Federal Government for the University’s top job.

One of the guidelines, which mandates aspirant to possess 10 years experience as a Professor is currently being used for the ongoing appointment of a new VC for the University.

Prof Duke has approached the National Industrial Court Calabar, to challenge the guidelines as it applies to UNICAL.

Minister of Education Dr. Tunji Alausa, had stated that 10 years’ experience as a Professor is mandatory for any candidate seeking the VC position.

In the light of above, the Federal Government has directed Governing Councils of Universities to familiarise themselves with the criteria and guidelines for selecting a Vice Chancellor and other Principal officers.

This applies to Universities, Polytechnics, and Colleges of Education.

For Universities, the Government asked councils to follow sections 3 to 6 of the University Miscellaneous Provision Act, 1993 (amended 2003 and 2012).

For polytechnics, Councils must refer to section 7(1-6) of the Federal Polytechnics Act, 1979 (amended 1993). Plus, for Colleges of Education, it’s section 5(1-6) of the Federal College of Education Act, 1986 (amended 1993).

Dr. Alausa asked Councils to study the guidelines for appointing VCs, Reactors, and Provosts carefully.

He warned that sanctions await Councils that violate the processes or operate outside the guidelines.

A recently obtained guideline document states that 10 years’ experience as a Professor is mandatory for any candidate seeking the VC position. It asks councils to take note.

Similarly, candidates for rector and provost roles must have been chief lecturers with five years’ experience.

The document also notes that Acting VCs are ineligible to join the selection process for new VCs, while Councils must submit details of the three top shortlisted candidates—in order of merit to the Minister of Education.

The Minister then forwarded these to the Visitor (the President) for scrutiny and a final decision.

After reviewing the recommendations,the Visitor (the President) can appoint or reject any of the three candidates. The Minister of Education will then convey the Visitor’s decision to the governing council.

Meanwhile, the Industrial Court in Calabar has directed all parties to maintain the status quo, refraining from any action that could jeopardise the fair hearing of the suit and fixed August 7, 2025 for hearing of the motion on notice at the Abuja Division.

In Suit No. NICN/CA/40/2025 filed by Prof Duke, the claimant is challenging the advertisement published on 27 May 2025, which stipulated that applicants must possess at least 10 years of post-professorial experience.

Prof. Duke argued that this requirement emanated from an Emergency Council Meeting held on 25, March 2025, which he described as “unlawful…that the criterion is rooted in a non-existent regulation”

The motion ex-parte, dated and filed on 21 July 2025, sought an interim injunction restraining UNICAL and its Governing Council from enforcing or acting upon the advertisement pending determination of the motion on notice.

Upon hearing, counsel to the claimant, Ubong Akpan, Esq., Hon. Justice Sanusi Kado granted an accelerated hearing of both the motion on notice and the substantive suit.

Jigawa State Running Out Of Qualified Medical Doctors – NMA Raises The Alarm

Suleiman Anyalewechi

July 28, 2025

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Nigerian Medical Association, NMA, on Monday, July 28, 2025, expressed fears that Jigawa State may soon be without qualified Medical Doctors , going by the exodus of practitioners.

At a Media Briefing in Dutse, the State Capital, the Chairman of the Jigawa State Chapter of the umbrella body of Medical Doctors in Nigeria, Dr Usman Haruna, lamented that in the last five months, the State health sector has lost no fewer than 30 doctors to neighbouring States and Federal Institutions who are offering competitive remuneration packages.

According to him, the Doctors who have been leaving in droves since February this year are doing so mainly because of the poor working conditions of the system in the State, particularly the inability of the State to align its salary structure with national standards.

He expressed serious fears that if nothing is urgently done to arrest the ugly trend, it will not be too long before the entire system becomes completely bereft of qualified medical personnel.

Particularly, the NMA expressed disappointment with the abysmal remuneration package on offer in the State, noting that it is the major cause of the exodus plaguing the system.

“Jigawa State is losing its best-trained professionals to neighbouring States and Federal Institutions that offer standard and competitive remuneration package based on the CONMESS salary structure.

“This haemorrhage of talent threatens the very foundation of our State’s healthare delivery system.

“Over five months ago, after our crucial engagement with the state Governor, Umar Namadi, in his magnanimity, graciously approved and mandated the minimum wage implementation committee to within two weeks, meet with us, resolve and report to him on the fiscal requirements for implementing urgent salary structure for doctors to align with their counterparts at Federal institutions, including correction of entry point disparities , implementation of hazard and rectification of call duty allowances .

“To date ,the committee has failed to report back to the Governor , despite having allegedly completed its assignment a long time ago”, the NMA chairman state.

Dr Haruna domiciled the large chunk of the blame for Doctors exodus from the system on the door steps of the Committee which failure has continued to demoralize health sector personnel in the state .

The Medical Association insisted that the lackadaisical attitude of the Wages Committee is greatly undermining the entire healthcare delivery system in Jigawa state

He, therefore, called an urgent intervention to serve the system from a total collapse

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Candidate Approaches Court