Home Blog Page 659

NDLEA  Arrests  Pregnant 50-year Old With Drugs

0
Ifeoma Henrietta Ezewuike

By Ayodele Oni

A 50-year old woman who feigned pregnancy to evade arrest after allegedly attempting to transport drugs has been arrested.

Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) revealed on Sunday that the 50-year-old widow and fashion designer, Ifeoma Henrietta Ezewuike,  allegedly attempted to traffic 1.3 kilograms of cocaine using a fake pregnancy to avoid detection.

The agency’s spokesman, Femi Babafemi, disclosed the arrest in a statement issued on Sunday.

The statement explained that Ezewuike, a mother of one and owner of Golden Star Creation fashion outfit in Ago Palace Way, Okota, Lagos, was apprehended on Friday, 22 August 2025, at a bus terminal in Jibowu, Yaba, while attempting to transport the illicit substance to customers in Abuja.

A subsequent raid on her residence led to the recovery of 200 grams of a cutting agent used in producing a potent strain of cocaine.

The suspect allegedly confessed that she inherited the drug trade from her late husband, who died two years ago, though she has been running her fashion business for two decades.

In separate operations, NDLEA officers intercepted 90 parcels of Loud, a cannabis variant weighing 48.6kg, concealed in three cartons of kitchen sinks at a courier facility in Lagos on Tuesday, 19 August.

In Adamawa State, a raid on the home of notorious dealer Idris Garba forced him to flee by scaling a fence, though an associate, Boniface Nnaji, 55, was arrested.

From the premises, officers seized a black Toyota Tundra jeep and a Toyota Yaris car used to convey 354,480 pills of tramadol and other opioids to Yola.

In Kogi State, 5,000 capsules of tramadol, 400 ampoules of pentazocine injection, and 200 ampoules of diazepam were confiscated from Neche Okonkwo at Idah waterside while crossing the River Niger on Wednesday, 20 August.

Trans-Border Crime: Nigeria Police Arrests, Deports Wanted Chinese Fugitive

0
Dai Qisheng arrested

By Ayodele Oni

In its fight against transnational organized crime, the Nigeria Police Force, in collaboration with INTERPOL, has repatriated a high-profile fugitive, Mr. Dai Qisheng, to the People’s Republic of China after his arrest in Abuja.

Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, in a statement issued on Sunday, said the operation was carried out through the INTERPOL National Central Bureau (NCB) Abuja in partnership with INTERPOL NCB Beijing and the Embassy of China in Nigeria.

According to him, “the Nigeria Police Force, in a landmark operation executed through the INTERPOL NCB Abuja, has successfully repatriated a high-profile fugitive, Mr. Dai Qisheng, to the People’s Republic of China.

“This decisive action underscores the Force’s unyielding commitment to its fight against transnational organized crime.”

Qisheng, a notorious gang leader, was declared wanted in Guizhou Province, China, for allegedly orchestrating and leading violent organized crimes.

“He reportedly fled his home country in 2024 after the Public Security Bureau of Zhijin County issued a warrant for his arrest.”

Adejobi disclosed that operatives of INTERPOL NCB Abuja tracked, placed him under surveillance, and arrested him in Abuja on August 8, 2025.

“He was repatriated on August 15, 2025, to Beijing under the established framework of police-to-police cooperation coordinated by INTERPOL.

“This operation not only reaffirms the Nigeria Police Force’s resolve to ensure that no fugitive finds a safe haven within Nigeria but also reflects the strength of international partnerships in addressing the increasingly complex threats of global crime networks,” Adejobi added.

Meanwhile, the Inspector-General of Police, (IGP) Olukayode Egbetokun,  commended the success of the operation, stressing that Nigeria will never be a hiding place for criminals.

He said, “the arrest and repatriation of Dai Qisheng is a clear message to criminals worldwide that the Federal Republic of Nigeria will not be a hiding place for fugitives.”

Egbetokun further assured that the Force would continue to deepen its collaboration with international security agencies.

“The Nigeria Police Force is committed to continuously improving international alliances, leveraging intelligence-sharing and operational collaboration to ensure that borders never become barriers to justice,” he stated.

Kano Warns Employment Seekers To Go Through Official Channels

0
Abba-Kabir-Yusuf-Kano-Governor (1)
Governor Abba-Kabir-Yusuf

By Ayodele Oni

The Kano State Government has explained processes for prospective applicants seeking employment into the state through the Civil Service Commission, (CSC) and disowned reports alleging the sale of application forms by the Commission.

The clarification was contained in a statement issued by the Director of Public Enlightenment of the Commission, Musbahu Aminu Yakasai, on Sunday in Kano.

According to the statement, “The Kano CSC noted with concern the circulation of false information suggesting that employment application forms are being sold to prospective job seekers.

“The Commission wishes to inform the general public that at no time has it authorised the sale of any application forms for recruitment into the State Civil Service. This claim is entirely not true and should be disregarded in its entirety.”

The statement advised the public to rely solely on official government channels for authentic updates, noting that all announcements on recruitment and other activities would be released exclusively through the appropriate platforms.

It further reiterated the Commission’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and due process in every recruitment exercise, warning that anyone found defrauding unsuspecting applicants in its name would face the full wrath of the law.

The Commission, therefore, cautioned members of the public to be wary of impostors and remain vigilant against fraudulent activities.

“For credible and official information on the activities of the Commission, the public is advised to always follow government-approved communication channels or visit the Kano State Civil Service Commission office at Audu Bako Secretariat, Kano,” the statement added.

NBC @ 33, Targets A1 Broadcasting Technique

0
Charles Ebuebu

By Ayodele Oni

The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has expressed the determination to adapt to the rapidly changing broadcasting environment shaped by artificial intelligence, online streaming and converged media.

The NBC, which clocks 33 years on Sunday, also pledged to deepen Nigeria’s digital transition and strengthen local content in the broadcasting industry.

In a statement signed by the Director-General of the Commission, Mr. Charles Ebuebu, the NBC reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism, integrity and service to the public interest.

“Today marks a significant milestone in our nation’s broadcasting journey. The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) was established 33 years ago with a singular mandate: to regulate, guide, and nurture the broadcasting industry in Nigeria.”

He described the anniversary as not merely about numbers, but a celebration of the shared commitment of staff, the resilience of licensees and the trust of the Nigerian public.

“It is about the values of professionalism, integrity, and service to the public interest that have carried us through the years. I therefore extend my heartfelt congratulations to the Board of Management, the entire NBC family, and indeed all stakeholders who continue to uphold these values.”

The NBC boss noted that the Commission had grown with the industry — from the days of analogue broadcasting to the digital era where voices, stories and innovations are expressed across multiple platforms.

“From the earliest days of national radio and television, through the liberalisation of the broadcast space, to the present drive towards digital switchover, the Commission has consistently sought to ensure that broadcasting remains a tool for education, information, and national integration.”

Looking ahead, Ebuebu stated that “The NBC is committed to ensuring the success of Nigeria’s Digital Switchover project, with platforms that guarantee universal access, affordability and inclusivity.

“We will also support Nigerian creativity and talent so that our airwaves reflect who we are — our values, our cultures, and our aspirations.”

Ebuebu further stressed the Commission’s resolve to promote responsible broadcasting, curb misinformation and harness technology, including AI-driven monitoring and data-driven audience measurement systems, to meet global standards.

According to him, partnerships and collaboration with licensees, industry players and international partners will remain a priority to create a vibrant, innovative and globally competitive broadcasting environment.

“Broadcasting is not only about regulation; it is about nation building. Every station, every producer, every regulator, and every viewer or listener is a custodian of our collective narrative. Together, we can ensure that the airwaves remain a space of truth, creativity, education, and unity.”

The Director-General urged stakeholders to renew their pledge to build a broadcasting industry that would serve both present and future generations.

APC Forum Warns Tinubu:  “Drop Shettima In 2027, Lose 80%  Northern Muslim votes

0
Vice President Kashim Shettima and Bola Tinubu

By Adesina Soyooye

From the North Central All Progressives Congress Forum comes an ominous warning to President Bola Tinubu: “Drop Vice President Kashim Shettima as your running mate in 2027, and lose 80% of Northern Muslim votes.”

The warning came from the Group, following the pressure on President Tinubu to do away with the Muslim-Muslim ticket in his bid for a second term in 2027, and go for a Christian running mate.

But the North-Central APC,  in a statement released by its Chairman, Alhaji Saleh Zazzaga, in Abuja, on Saturday, warns that doing that will spell doom for Mr President’s second term chances.

However, not a few people think otherwise.

They say that the Muslim-Muslim ticket which worked in 2023, is not likely to work in 2027.

For instance, the Northern Ethnic Nationality Forum   reminded the President that the Muslim-Muslim ticket cost the APC States in the Middle Belt and the Federal Capital Territory in 2023.

But in response to the Northern Ethnic Nationality Forum’s call, the North-Central APC Forum, in the statement signed by Zazzaga, who was a member of the APC campaign council for the 2023 election, posited  that the adoption of the Muslim-Muslim ticket was a winning strategy and in no way, a marginalization of Christians and/or other religions.

It noted that it is not possible for Tinubu to lose the Middle Belt when prominent Christians, for example, APC National Chairman, Prof Nentawe Yilwatda and Secretary to Government of the Federation, SGF, George Akume are there holding high profile offices.

North Central APC Forum: “The Muslim-Muslim ticket will not affect President Bola Tinubu’s chances in the Middle Belt, which is part of the North-Central and this is because of the key positions held by Middle Belt christians in the APC government.

“We can guarantee that Tinubu will get 90 percent of the votes from the North-Central.

“Tinubu’s achievements in office will guarantee his reelection and as a result, there is no need to take the needless risk of changing a winning team.

“Those that are calling on President Bola Tinubu to change Vice President Kashim Shettima, basing their agitation on the Muslim-Muslim ticket, if you check, you will notice that in 2023, most of their communities voted for Peter Obi of the Labour Party.

“Now if Peter Obi is to come out again in 2027, as expected, what is the guarantee that they will vote for Tinubu even if he is to drop Shettima and replace him with a Christian? Does it mean that these people will now leave Peter Obi and vote for Tinubu?

“The truth is most of these people are not Tinubu’s supporters, they don’t really want him to win reelection in 2027. That is why some of them are going as far as urging Mr President to drop those that went to great lengths to work for his victory in 2023. They are only trying to deceive Mr President but we believe the President knows better and will be able to see through their mischief. They don’t mean well for Mr President and the party.”

The Forum, in the same vein, alleged that some people who claim to be working for the President’s reelection are alienating and marginalizing northern Muslim communities, while concentrating attention on northern Christians.

“Another issue that we want to bring to Mr President’s attention is there are people close to him – we will not mention their names but they know themselves. They are going about in different communities in the North, giving money to some communities while excluding others all in the name of asking northern Christian communities to vote for Tinubu. But while they are doing that they are alienating and marginalizing northern Muslim communities. This is counter productive and it will backfire eventually and we don’t want Mr President to suffer because of the poor decisions of these people who are close to him.

“Now these people who are concentrating on northern Christians should consider this – what if the 2023 scenario repeats itself in 2027 with Peter Obi also contesting and President Tinubu now loses both Christian and Muslim votes? What if the Christian communities again vote for Obi and the Muslim communities who are now being neglected also refuse to vote for Tinubu?

“These are the issues that these people who are calling on Mr President to drop Shettima are either not thinking about, or are ignoring because they are up to mischief and do not mean well for the President and the APC.

“Our sincere advise for Mr President is that he should maintain the status quo that produced him. We are not in support of calls for President Tinubu to change the Vice President. Changing Kashim Shettima will not bear any positive fruit in the election because, looking at the results of the 2023 election, all the Christian dominated areas in the North voted for Peter Obi and we don’t expect a different outcome in 2027. Rather, President Tinubu risks losing a large chunk of northern Muslim votes if he listens to these calls and goes ahead to drop Vice President Kashim Shettima.

“We advise Mr President not to gamble with the 2023 election. President Tinubu will lose 80 percent of northern Muslim votes if he decides to change Shettima. Even if he decides to replace him with another northern Muslim, he will lose northern Muslim votes so the best approach is to maintain the status quo and go with what worked for him in the last election.”

The Presidency has not responded to the speculations which people think would die a natural death with a confirmation that “nobody changes a winning team.”

Insecurity: Katsina Invests N36 Billion, Rescues 72 Victims

0
Umar Dikko Radda - Governor of Katstina State

By Ayodele Oni

In its fight against insecurity, Katsina State Government has disclosed that it has so far invested over ₦36 billion in strengthening security operations and successfully rescued 72 kidnap victims in recent missions.

The State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr. Nasiru Mu’azu Danmusa, made the announcement on Saturday during a press briefing at the Deputy Governor’s Office,  Katsina.

Dr. Danmusa extended condolences to communities recently attacked by bandits, particularly in Malumfashi’s Gidaman Mantau village, where 28 lives were lost.

“On behalf of the government, we express our heartfelt sympathy to the families and communities affected.

“We also thank God for the successful rescue of 72 victims following a coordinated operation by security forces,” he said.

The commissioner stressed that the fight against terrorism and banditry requires both military strategy and community cooperation.

He noted that Governor Dikko Umar Radda has already demonstrated commitment by allocating more than ₦36 billion to bolster security across the state.

According to him, Katsina now ranks among the northern states with the highest number of security assets, second only to Borno State.

He revealed that the government recently procured eight new armoured vehicles, bringing the state’s fleet to 43, which have already been deployed to flashpoint areas.

Security personnel, he added, are currently spread across several local government areas facing persistent banditry.

While commending the efforts of security operatives, Dr. Danmusa emphasised the importance of grassroots involvement in tackling insecurity:

“This crisis emanates from the grassroots and must be solved from the grassroots. Security is not solely the government’s responsibility—it is a collective duty of every citizen.”

He also warned against politicising security matters, particularly during the rainy season when farmers return to rural communities.

“This is not the time to play politics with security. If you love Katsina, you must contribute positively.

“Our doors remain open for transparency on how security funds are utilised. Government has a duty to be accountable to the people,” he added.

The commissioner concluded by calling on residents to unite, pray, and support security agencies in ensuring lasting peace in Katsina State.

PDP Govs. Forum Dares Wike Group, Insists: “National Convention Must Hold”

0
PDP Governors Forum in Gusau

By Ayodele Oni

The Peoples Democratic Party Governors’ Forum (PDP-GF) has vowed that there is no going back on the national convention of the party.

The 101st National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of July 2025 had fixed November 15 for the National Convention in Ibadan, Oyo State

The Governors rose from its 2025/7TH Meeting in Gusau,  Zamfara State capital, on Saturday,  and dared all anti-party members working against the schedule National Convention of the Party.

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike-led group within the PDP is up in arms against the hosting of the National Convention.

The Forum particularly tasked leaders and members of the Party to resist all attempts to derail the convention by anti-party forces, but to see the PDP as the only democratic institution and viable alternative for restoring Nigeria along the path of good governance and national development.

The PDP Governors condemned what they described as “the over-militarization”of the last Saturday’s bye- elections which they noted was characterized by wide spread irregularities, vote buying and violence, and called on Nigerians to be more circumspect in protecting their votes.

This was as it reaffirmed its commitment to rescuing the Nigeria and Nigerians from the “divisive governance style” of the All Progressives Congress (APC), whose policies, it noted have continued to cause more hardship and misery on the people.

A communique of the Forum signed by its chairman and Governor of Bauchi State, Bala Mohammed, stated that the opposition governors extensively deliberated on the state of the nation, the security situation, the erosion of democratic values, as well as ongoing efforts to reposition the PDP and make adequate preparations for its forthcoming national convention.

The PDP Governors expressed gratitude to members and supporters of the Party nationwide for their steadfast loyalty in the face of what they described as “serious intimidation and untold anti-democratic actions” of the APC-led Federal Government in the last bye-election.

The Forum commended the resilience of PDP leaders and members in overcoming orchestrated defections, stressing that such distractions cannot diminish the party’s strong grassroots appeal or the growing public yearning for the return of affordable living and relative security experienced under PDP-led administrations.

The communique further stated; “The Forum urges members and supporters of our Great Party, as well as the entire citizenry, to hold fast to the vision and principles of the PDP, in spite of the growing intimidation of the opposition by the government in power.

“This sad situation should only be seen as the sign of the desperation of a political party with no agenda, no vision and doomed to face inevitable rejection by the masses.

“The Forum, particularly commends initiatives by the government of Zamfara State in significantly curbing insecurity within the state; but condemns the continued monstrous killings in Katsina, Plateau, Niger and Benue States and other parts of the country and calls on the federal government to be more responsive to the lives and properties of the citizenry.

“The Forum thanks the Government and people of Zamfara State for not only hosting the 2025/7TH Meeting, but the uncommon hospitality extended to all; and also congratulate Governor Dauda Lawal on his exemplary leadership and notable achievements in infrastructure, health, education, other social services, and security.

“The Forum commiserates with the Government and people of Zamfara State on the passing of the Emir of Gusau, and equally with the Government and people of Oyo State over the recent loss of traditional rulers.

The meeting was attended by Governors Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed (Bauchi State) – Chairman, Dr. Dauda Lawal (Zamfara State)– Host Governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas (Taraba State), Hon. Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri (Adamawa State), Seyi Makinde (Oyo State), Senator Douye Diri (Bayelsa State) and Senator Ademola Adeleke (Osun State)

NAF Launches Operation To Hunt Down  Katsina Mosque Killers

0
NAF Super Tucano Fighter Jets

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

No fewer than 76 abduction victims were on Saturday, August 23, rescued in coordinated raids on identified bandits’ hideouts, including Pauwa Hill in Kankara Local Council of Katsina State.

The air interdiction carried out by the Nigerian Air Force NAF as a direct response to the gruesome killings of worshipers in Malumfashi Local Council of the state last week by suspected banditry elements however resulted in the killing of an innocent teenager.

As at the last count, 50 people was murdered in the Katsina Mosque attack.

The attack was  said to be a reprisal one and carried out while the people were observing their early morning prayers.

Following the widespread indignation and  outrage provoked by the attack, the Federal Government vowed to explore all available options in bringing the perpetrators to account.

In a statement on Saturday, the Katsina State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs Dr Nasir Muazu informed that the air operation was part of a wider security strategy  aimed at hunting down a banditry kingpin Babaro and his gang, strongly believed to be the masterminds of the dastardly Mosque attack and killings in Mantau Community, Malumfashi Local Government of the State.

He noted that the airstrikes conducted between  6am and 7 am specifically targeted Babaro’s stronghold at Pauwa Hill ,which is one of the most notorious bases that have been a source of  terror to surrounding communities.

“The strike is part of a broader strategy to dismantle criminal hideouts , weaken their networks, and put an end to the cycle of killings, kidnappings, and extortions that have plagued innocent citizens.

“The Katsina State Government, through the Ministry of Internal Security and Home Affairs, commends the Nigerian Air Force , the Nigerian Army ,and all security agencies for their courage and professionalism in this fight.

“Their sacrifices are steadily reclaiming Katsina towns and villages from the grip of criminals.

“We reaffirm our continued support through logistics, intelligence-sharing, and community engagement, ensuring these efforts are sustained until banditry is completely eradicated”, Muazu stated.

According to Muazu, the 76 rescued victims include those abducted during the Malumfashi Mosque attack, in addition to  women and children who were used by the bandits as human shields.

Jonathan In Kampala, Charges African Graduates On Innovation, Entrepreneurship

0

Former Nigeria President has enjoined African graduates to be innovative, ethical and embrace the spirit of service as means of cultivating the right qualities for leadership that shapes the future and transforms societies.

Dr. Jonathan stated this on Thursday in Kampala while delivering an inspiring address as the Chancellor of Cavendish University Uganda (CUU) at the 14th Graduation Ceremony of the institution where he serves as the Chancellor.

In a powerfully rendered call to action, Dr. Jonathan challenged young Africans to seek to become active problem-solvers in society, rather than passive recipients of opportunity. “You have been taught to be problem-solvers, not problem-bearers; to be creators of opportunity, not seekers of entitlement”, he noted.

The former President reminded the graduates that people now “live in a world marked by rapid change, uncertainty, and unprecedented opportunities,”, adding that “the future belongs to those who are bold, ethical, entrepreneurial, and innovative.”

He noted that the theme of the ceremony, “Empowering Futures: Cultivating Leaders for a Global Tomorrow,” captured the essence of the moment and the challenges ahead.

He commended Cavendish University Uganda (CUU) for preparing its students not only to succeed but to lead, saying the institution had instilled in them employable skills, an innovative mindset, and strong ethical values.

Drawing from personal experiences of hardship in his early education, Dr. Jonathan encouraged graduates to embrace their own struggles as foundational to future leadership.

“That resilience is your first qualification as a leader,” he noted, urging them to lead with empathy, serve with integrity, and innovate fearlessly.

Also referencing his own experience as a former head of state, Jonathan spoke candidly about the true nature of leadership. “Leadership is not just about power or position. It is about service, integrity, and vision. I know too well the weight of leadership. But I also know its immense power to transform lives and communities. That power now rests with each of you.”

The Chancellor highlighted the importance of global citizenship, referencing the African proverb, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” He challenged the graduates to be bridge-builders across cultures and disciplines, contributing meaningfully to both local and global communities.

Dr. Jonathan also shared the inspiring legacy of Nobel Laureate Wangari Maathai, whose environmental activism began with the simple act of planting trees. He reminded the graduates of the ripple effect that small, purposeful actions can have on the world.

He said further: “Lead not just with your minds, but with your hearts,” he urged. “Few will have the greatness to bend history itself, but each of you can work to change a small portion of events.”

The Chancellor left the graduates with four virtues to carry forward including resilience, responsibility, relevance, and relentless service.

Goodluck Jonathan was appointed in 2021 by Cavendish University in Uganda as its third Chancellor. He replaced Benjamin Mkapa, the former President of Tanzania who was the second Chancellor who also replaced Dr Kenneth Kaunda, the former President of Zambia and CUU’s first Chancellor.

CUU which began business as a private university in 2008 was established by Africa Education Holdings (AEH), previously known as Maarifa Education Holding, a Kenya based education support institute that invests in private higher education institutions across Africa. AEH also owns Cavendish University Zambia and partners many other universities across Africa.

The graduation event brought together faculty, parents, university officials, and dignitaries from across the continent to celebrate the achievements of the Class of 2025.

Ikechukwu Eze

S.A. to H.E. Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan

Atiku Says He Is Not Desperate To Be President, But Desperate For A Better Nation

0
Atiku Abubakar
Atiku Abubakar

By Akinwale Kasali

Atiku Abubakar, former Peoples Democratic Party, Presidential Candidate, now member of African Democratic Congress, ADC, has debunked claims from certain quarters that he is desperate to be Nigeria’s President.

The former Vice President under  President Olusegun Obasanjo’s Government, said he is more interested in a better Nigeria than being President.

The Adamawa State born Politician said this while speaking at an affirmation ceremony for new defectors to the ADC on Saturday, in Lagos.

Some bigwigs in the PDP and Labour Party,  LP, party jumped ship, pledging alliance to the ADC.

Abubakar, who was the Guest Speaker at the programme, but was represented by Prof. Ola Olateju of the Achievers University, Owo, Ondo State, stated that the growth, development and progress of the nation is what is germane to him, rather than becoming President.

It would be recalled that Atiku had left the PDP for ADC, with some like-minded opposition politicians, recently resigned his membership of the party to join ADC.

“Atiku Abubakar’s plan is to build a better Nigeria. So, it’s not about him being the President. It’s about having a better government, a good government, that will be able to deliver for Nigerians.

“It’s not a personal thing for him, and that’s why some of us are with him. It’s not about Atiku having to be President at all costs.

“ADC, to us, is not a political party. It is a movement, a movement of Nigerians for a better Nigeria,” Olateju spoke on behalf of Abubakar.

Atiku further stated that the movement to ADC was for repositioning the country and taking it to great heights.

“It’s no longer politics as usual. It’s a new beginning. It is a new journey, a new beginning.

“We need a new beginning in Nigeria, and that’s what Atiku is championing.

“It’s not about a personal thing that he must be president. No, it is not a matter of must.

“The must is for him to see Nigeria deliver as wished by all. We are expecting a better Nigeria.

“We want Nigeria to be able to deliver. We want Nigeria to be able to take care of Nigerians,” he added.

He further claimed that Nigerians were facing challenges with the removal of fuel subsidy and attendant inflation, Abubakar said that a better Nigeria was possible with good leadership.

He said that God was ready to use the coalition members to bring about a change in the country.

Speaking on who would likely emerge as the ADC Presidential flagbearer in 2027, Abubakar said that this would be determined by the people in the party.

“It is not a thing we can predetermine. Whoever emerges through free and fair contests, we are all going to support.

“Everybody has a right to contest; we are going to rally round anyone that emerges. We are not imposing anyone on the people.

“The point is a better Nigeria, not Atiku for president at all costs, not Obi for president at all costs.

“Whoever picks the ticket shall be the representative of the Nigerian people and will represent the collective voice and aspiration of Nigeria,” he added.