President Buhari Chairs Council Of State Meeting, Gowon, Abdulsalami, Jonathan Present (PHOTOS)

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February 9, 2023

Abia APC Guber Candidate, Ikechi Emenike, Other Party Leaders Pay Courtesy Visit On National Chairman (Photos) — Ikechi Emenike

The Supreme Court has affirmed Ikechi Emenike as the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abia State.

A five-member panel of the supreme court led by Tijani Abubakar on Thursday affirmed the judgment of the court of appeal delivered in December 2022.

The Abia APC had held parallel governorship primaries that produced Uche Ogah and Emenike as candidates of the party.

On May 26, the APC declared Emenike the winner of the governorship primary in the state.

On November 11, Binta Nyako, a federal high court judge, sacked Emenike and ordered INEC to recognise Ogah as the party’s governorship candidate in the state.

Both APC and Emenike had filed separate appeals challenging the verdict delivered by Nyako.

Dan Eke, another aspirant, also filed an appeal challenging the judgment of the trial judge that recognised Ogah’s candidacy.

In December 2022, the court of appeal sitting in Abuja affirmed Emenike as the party’s candidate.

In the unanimous verdict, Olabisi Ige, who led the appeal court panel, read out the names of the party members sent by the APC national secretariat to conduct the governorship primary that produced Emenike, affirming that the exercise was valid.

Another candidate, Dan Eke, also filed an appeal in which he contested the trial judge’s decision to recognize Ogah’s candidacy.

The court of appeal in Abuja confirmed Emenike as the party’s nominee in December 2022.

Olabisi Ige, who presided over the appeal court panel, read aloud the names of the party members appointed by the APC national headquarters to oversee the governorship primary that produced Emenike and affirmed the validity of the process in the unanimous decision.

“Bandits, Criminals Will Face Intense Military Pressure In 2026” – Guards Brigade

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December 20, 2025

"Bandits, Criminals Will Face Intense Military Pressure In 2026" – Guards Brigade

The Commander, Guards Brigade, Nigerian Army, Brig.-Gen. Adebisi Onasanya, has warned that bandits and criminal elements operating within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and its environs will face sustained and intensified military pressure in 2026.

Onasanya declared that they will not find the area conducive for criminal activities.

He gave the assurance on Saturday in Abuja while speaking with journalists at the summit of Aso Rock, during the Guards Brigade’s annual ascent of Aso Rock, an exercise marking the conclusion of the formation’s training year.

Onasanya said the ascent, which is a yearly tradition of the Guards Brigade, was designed to test physical fitness, endurance and cohesion among troops, while also serving as a platform to review operational activities and prepare for the coming year.

According to him, the year 2025 was particularly demanding for the Brigade due to increased operational engagements beyond its traditional role of protecting the President.

“In addition to our core responsibility of protecting the President, this year has been very challenging because of the increase in security demands within our area of responsibility.

“However, it has also been very rewarding because we were able to ensure that the Guards Brigade area of responsibility remained safe.

“Residents of Abuja and its environs can attest to this,” he said.

The Guards Brigade Commander attributed the successes recorded to sustained operations and effective collaboration with other security agencies operating in the FCT and neighbouring states.

He said the Brigade worked closely with the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and the Department of State Services, as well as received support from the Nigerian Navy and the Nigerian Air Force.

On key achievements recorded in the year under review, Onasanya disclosed that the Brigade conducted several clearance operations against bandits and criminal elements operating in parts of the FCT and adjoining areas.

“At the beginning of the year, we had bandits lurking around areas such as Bwari, Abaji and Gwagwalada within the FCT, as well as Toto and parts of Niger State.

“We carried out a series of clearance operations in these areas and successfully made a number of arrests. We recovered weapons and neutralised several criminal elements,” he said.

He added that criminal attempts to destabilise the FCT were promptly contained.

“Those who attempted to foment trouble within the FCT were also apprehended and kept where they belong,” the commander said.

Looking ahead to 2026, the Guards Brigade Commander assured that the formation would continue to put in its best in support of national security, warning criminals against using the Brigade’s area of responsibility as a safe haven.

“The Guards Brigade is a highly motivated formation of the Nigerian Army, and we expect nothing short of excellence from our troops.

“As we move into 2026, bandits and criminals should be assured that they will not find it easy. Any individual or group thinking of using our area of responsibility as a safe haven will be decisively dealt with,” he said.

Onasanya commended officers and soldiers of the Brigade for their dedication, discipline and professionalism throughout the year, noting that their commitment made it possible for the formation to achieve its set objectives without major setbacks.

Addressing the troops at the summit of Aso Rock, the commander praised them for their resilience during what he described as a tough and engaging year.

“It was a very challenging year, but you all gave your best. I am very proud of your commitment and professionalism.

“As we prepare for the coming year, we must remain focused and even more committed. No stone will be left unturned in ensuring the safety of our area of responsibility,” he said.

He urged the troops to maintain high standards of professionalism and vigilance as the brigade prepares for increased operational demands in 2026.

The exercise ended with a safe and orderly descent from the summit of Aso Rock, with emphasis on safety and zero casualties.

“Nigeria’s Case Against DR Congo Fielding Ineligible Players ‘Very Tight’’ – Dikko

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December 20, 2025

"Nigeria’s Case Against DR Congo Fielding Ineligible Players ‘Very Tight’' – Dikko

The Super Eagles case against DR Congo fielding several ineligible players in a 2026 World Cup Playoffs is “very tight”, according to the chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC).

Nigeria have now asked FIFA to throw out DRC from the World Cup qualifiers because they did not follow the rules in clearing some of their players to feature for them after they had previously represented another country.

“Our case is very tight, we’re not sore losers, this is part of the law,” NSC chairman Shehu Dikko told Arise TV.

“There are suspicions that somethings have not been done right in accordance with the laws of the game.

“They have probably misrepresented their position to FIFA to obtain those clearances.

“Just two days ago, FIFA have ruled against Malaysia on the same issue because they procured the passports of their players illegally and now they have forfeited all the matches they have played with those play.

Borno Police Command Deploy Special Squads Ahead of Tinubu’s Visit

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December 20, 2025

Tactical teams, surveillance squads, and operatives of the Explosive Ordnance Disposal unit are some of the special operatives deployed by Borno State Police Command ahead of President Bola Tinubu’s visit today.

This was revealed in a statement issued, Saturday, by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Nahum Daso.

He also said there would be temporary vehicular restrictions and diversions in some parts of the state.

“The Borno State Police Command has deployed adequate security arrangements ahead of the visit of the President to Borno State scheduled for today 20th December, 2025.

“The state Commissioner of Police, Naziru Abdulmajid, has drafted a robust security architecture comprising conventional police personnel, tactical teams, surveillance squads, crowed control and Explosive Ordnance Disposal units to ensure a safe, secure, and hitch free visit”

“Members of the public are hereby informed that at intervals, certain roads, particularly the parallel route from Airport Road to Shehu Road, Maiduguri may experience temporary vehicular restrictions or diversions to facilitate the smooth movement of VIPs and ensure public safety.

“The Command reassures residents of its commitment to the protection of lives and property before, during, and after the presidential visit, and calls for the continued cooperation, vigilance, and support of the public.”

NNPC Slashes Petrol Pump Price to ₦835/Litre Amid Intensifying Competition from Dangote Refinery

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December 20, 2025

NNPC Slashes Petrol Pump Price to ₦835/Litre Amid Intensifying Competition from Dangote Refinery

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has reduced the pump price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, to around ₦835 per litre in major cities, marking the third price cut this month.

This latest adjustment sees prices drop from ₦915 per litre, with specific NNPCL stations in Lagos selling at ₦838–₦840 per litre (e.g., Igando, Lekki, and Iwaya outlets) and Abuja stations at ₦835 per litre. The move comes as competition heats up in Nigeria’s downstream petroleum sector, driven by increased domestic refining and aggressive pricing from private players.

The price reduction is attributed to several factors, including softer ex-depot costs, lower freight and insurance charges, and growing supply from local sources like the Dangote Refinery. Independent marketers such as MRS, BOVAS, and AA Rano have also slashed prices in Abuja to between ₦739 and ₦865 per litre, while private depots, including Dangote, have lowered ex-depot rates to ₦699–₦800 per litre.

This development signals a shift toward market-responsive pricing, reducing Nigeria’s historical reliance on imported fuel. Consumers are already benefiting from short-term relief, especially with heightened travel demand during the festive season. However, experts note that prices remain sensitive to global crude oil fluctuations, exchange rates, and refinery output levels.

The intensified competition is reshaping the market, with calls for greater open access to sustain downward pressure on prices.

Tinubu’s Administration Promises To Wipe-out Terrorist, Sponsors

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December 20, 2025

Tinubu's Administration Promises To Wipe-out Terrorist, Sponsors

President Bola Tinubu has vowed that his administration will show no mercy to terrorists, bandits, kidnappers, and their sponsors.

He also declared a renewed offensive against violent crime as part of a sweeping reset of the country’s security architecture.

Tinubu made the pledge while presenting the N58.18tn 2026 Appropriation Bill to a joint session of the National Assembly on Friday.

Hours earlier, the Federal Executive Council approved the budget framework at an emergency meeting presided over for the first time by Vice President Kashim Shettima.

The proposed budget is titled, ‘Budget of Consolidation, Renewed Resilience and Shared Prosperity’.

The President earmarked N5.41tn for Defence and Security, the single largest allocation in the proposed budget.

This marks the third consecutive year that defence and security spending has taken priority since the administration began presenting national budgets in November 2023.

Police Arrest 809 Crime Suspects, Recover 88 Firearms In Abia In 2025 — CP Isa (Video)

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December 20, 2025

Police Arrest 809 Crime Suspects, Recover 88 Firearms In Abia In 2025 — CP Isa (Video) — CP Danladi Isa

The Abia State Police Command has recorded significant operational successes in 2025, arresting a total of 809 crime suspects and recovering 88 firearms in 438 criminal cases handled between January 2025 and date.

The Commissioner of Police, Danladi Isa, disclosed this on Friday while briefing journalists at the Command Headquarters in Umuahia on the operational strategies and achievements of the Command during the period under review.

According to the Police Commissioner, the Command also recovered 435 rounds of ammunition from suspected criminals and successfully prosecuted over 200 suspects in various courts across the state, with several of them already serving jail terms for offences ranging from armed robbery to kidnapping and cult-related crimes.

CP Isa further revealed that the Command rescued 33 children who were either stolen or trafficked within and outside Abia State, noting that the suspects responsible for crimes against the children were prosecuted, with some already convicted and jailed.

“We have sent a lot of people to jail. A clear message has been passed that it is no longer business as usual for criminals in Abia State,” the Commissioner stated.

The Police boss attributed the noticeable reduction in crime rate across the state to strategic policing, sustained intelligence-led operations, and the support of the Abia State Government, particularly in logistics provision. He specifically acknowledged the backing of Governor Alex Otti, as well as the cooperation of community stakeholders.

CP Isa also disclosed that officers of the Command encountered and neutralised several non-state actors at different times across the state, adding that their weapons were recovered during operations.

He appealed to residents of Abia State to continue supporting the Police with timely and credible information on suspicious activities and movements in their communities to further strengthen the fight against crime.

During the briefing, firearms and other weapons recovered from suspects were displayed to journalists at the Police Headquarters as evidence of the Command’s achievements.

The Abia State Police Command reiterated its commitment to professionalism, public safety, and sustained collaboration with residents to ensure a safer Abia State.

Church Proud of Senator Orji Kalu’s Service to Humanity — Bishop Eke

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December 20, 2025

Church Proud of Senator Orji Kalu’s Service to Humanity — Bishop Eke

Bishop Silas Eke has said Senator Orji Uzor Kalu’s conduct during the recent budget presentation by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, where he offered prayers for the nation, clearly reflects his strong Christian faith and commitment to Nigeria.

According to the cleric, the lawmaker has remained a patriotic Nigerian who loves his country and his religion in equal measure, describing him as a God-fearing leader who has consistently made himself available as a vessel to serve humanity.

Speaking in Umuahia on Saturday, Bishop Eke said the Catholic, Anglican, Methodist, Presbyterian and Pentecostal churches across Abia North and beyond were united in their appreciation of the former Abia State governor’s contributions to both spiritual and national development.

“He is an ambassador of Christ, not only in words but in his projects and performance. He is God-fearing, and God will not abandon him. The Church will also not abandon him,” the cleric said.

The bishop highlighted Senator Kalu’s extensive support for church growth and theological education, noting that he built hostels for seminaries and theological schools to support the training of future church leaders.

He further listed the senator’s role in the construction and rehabilitation of several church facilities, including the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria (PCN) Ohafia Central at Elu Ohafia, the tarring of the Mater Dei Cathedral in Umuahia, as well as support for the PCN in Igbere and other worship centres across Abia North.

Beyond church-related interventions, Bishop Eke said Senator Kalu’s broader achievements in education, infrastructure and human capital development had endeared him to communities across the senatorial district. These, he noted, include the construction and renovation of classroom blocks, provision of desks and learning materials for schools, scholarships and educational support for students, as well as facilitation of investments that have created jobs and boosted local economies.

According to the bishop, these interventions have translated into tangible improvements in the lives of ordinary people, regardless of religious or political affiliation.

“The Church is truly proud of him because his service cuts across faiths and communities. He has shown that leadership is about sacrifice, compassion and service to humanity,” Bishop Eke added.

VIDEO: Why I Visited Mazi Nnamdi Kanu – Governor Otti Speaks

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December 20, 2025

After Court Verdict, Gov. Otti Confirms Talks Underway To Secure Nnamdi Kanu’s Release

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has explained the reasons behind his recent visit to Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), stating that the move was driven by a commitment to peace, dialogue, and responsibility as a leader.

Speaking on Friday at the Michael Okpara Auditorium, Government House, Umuahia, Governor Otti revealed that discussions surrounding Nnamdi Kanu’s situation began over two years ago at the highest levels.

“Exactly 24 months ago, I opened up discussions at the highest level on Nnamdi Kanu,” the Governor disclosed.

He explained that visiting Kanu was the right thing to do, noting that the detained IPOB leader is an indigene of Abia State, specifically Umuahia North Local Government Area.

Governor Otti emphasized that ignoring a problem does not solve it, maintaining that dialogue remains a vital tool in conflict resolution.

“There are always ways to solve a problem. I don’t believe the way to solve a problem is to ignore it,” he said.

While reaffirming respect for the judiciary, the Governor noted that beyond the legal process, there exists an administrative window for intervention, dialogue, and peace-building.

He clarified that he does not support the disintegration of Nigeria and has consistently condemned violent approaches to resolving grievances, including Operation Python Dance, which he had publicly criticized in the past.

“It would be insensitive of me to sit here and say that one of our own should die when there is an opportunity to discuss, negotiate, and sue for peace,” Governor Otti stated.

The Governor concluded that his intervention is guided by conscience, leadership responsibility, and the pursuit of lasting peace, rather than political ambition.

I Will Retire From Politics After My Tenure As Governor – Otti [Video]

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December 19, 2025

Abia Opposition Members Seeking For Negotiation, Settlement – Otti — Dr. Alex Otti

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has reaffirmed his resolve to retire completely from active politics after completing his tenure as Governor, dismissing speculations about any future political ambition.

Governor Otti made this clear on Friday, December 19, at the Michael Okpara Auditorium, Government House, Umuahia, while responding to a viral video alleging that his recent political engagements signaled a plan to contest for higher offices.

The Governor categorically stated that he has no ambition to run for President, Vice President, or Senator, stressing that his mission in public office is limited to his current mandate.

“By the time I’m done with governorship, I will retire. I don’t have presidential ambition, vice-presidential ambition, or senatorial ambition,” Otti declared.

He explained that leadership comes with a responsibility to know when to exit, adding that politics should not be a lifelong pursuit.

“When you have done what you were asked to do, you clear, give way to younger people. We are not cut out for recycling offices,” he said.

Governor Otti also dismissed arguments built around an assumed ambition for an Igbo presidency, noting that such assumptions collapse when the facts are examined.

He acknowledged that criticism is part of democracy, but cautioned that holding an opinion does not automatically make it correct.

Abia Police Launch Manhunt Against Killers Of Soldier In Aba (Photos)

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December 19, 2025