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Category: Africa

  • ‘If anything happens to El-Rufai, this government will be held accountable’—Atiku Abubakar

    ‘If anything happens to El-Rufai, this government will be held accountable’—Atiku Abubakar

    ABUJA, NIGERIA (NPA): Former Vice President and chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Atiku Abubakar, has expressed grave concern over the reported deteriorating health of former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory and immediate past Governor of Kaduna State, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai.

    El-Rufai has been in detention since Monday, February 16, 2026, after reporting to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

    Atiku, a presidential aspirant, urged the Federal Government to clarify which agency is holding El-Rufai, citing uncertainty over whether he is in the custody of the EFCC, the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC), the State Security Service (SSS), or another security body.

    “The government must end the secrecy surrounding his detention, which only fuels suspicion,” Atiku said. “Whichever agency is responsible has a constitutional duty to guarantee his safety, dignity, access to medical care, and access to his family and legal representatives.”

    He condemned reports that El-Rufai has suffered nosebleeds while family members were allegedly denied access to him. “This is unacceptable in a democracy. If the authorities cannot guarantee his health and fundamental rights, the lawful and humane course of action is to grant him bail without delay. If anything happens to El-Rufai, this government will be held accountable.”

    Atiku also criticized what he described as “selective prosecution,” warning that anti-corruption efforts risk losing credibility if they appear partisan. “Justice must be transparent. Accountability must be even-handed. And the rule of law must apply to all—without fear, without favour, and without political bias,” he added.

    Meanwhile, El-Rufai’s media adviser, Muyiwa Adekeye, issued a statement confirming that the former governor is unwell and bleeding in detention. He noted that the courts are scheduled to hear two matters concerning El-Rufai this week. On February 25, the FCT High Court will hear his fundamental rights case against the Federal Government, the ICPC, the EFCC, and the DSS, in which he seeks bail. On the same date, he is also scheduled for arraignment on charges filed by the DSS.

  • Nigeria Accused of Paying Billions in Ransom to Boko Haram for Release of Schoolchildren — AFP

    Nigeria Accused of Paying Billions in Ransom to Boko Haram for Release of Schoolchildren — AFP

    LAGOS, NIGERIA (NPA): Agence France-Presse (AFP) has reported that the Nigerian government allegedly paid millions of dollars in ransom to Boko Haram to secure the release of more than 230 children and staff abducted from a Catholic boarding school in November. Intelligence sources cited by AFP claim that, as part of the deal, two senior Boko Haram commanders were also freed.

    According to AFP, the ransom money was flown by helicopter to Boko Haram’s stronghold in Gwoza, Borno State, near the Cameroon border, and handed over to militant commander Ali Ngulde. Due to poor communications in the remote area, Ngulde reportedly crossed into Cameroon to confirm receipt of the funds before the first group of 100 children was released.

    The mass abduction at St. Mary’s Boarding School in Papiri, Niger State, on November 21 triggered widespread outrage across Nigeria. While dozens of children managed to escape, the remaining captives were freed two weeks later following negotiations led by National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu. The Nigerian government has consistently denied paying ransom to terrorist groups, reiterating its stance after the Papiri incident.

    Boko Haram, founded in northeastern Nigeria in 2002, began as a religious movement opposing Western-style education and secular governance. Over time, it transformed into a violent insurgency responsible for mass abductions, attacks on schools, and widespread displacement. The group seeks to establish an Islamic state governed by Sharia law, rejecting democracy and secular institutions. Though splinter factions such as the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) have emerged, Boko Haram’s core objective remains the destabilization of Nigeria’s secular governance.

    Here’s a rewritten version of your report section, expanded to about two hundred words:

    The Nigerian government has not yet issued an official response to the recent AFP report. However, its stance on matters of national security remains consistent and firm. Authorities continue to emphasize that ransom payments to terrorist groups are strictly against policy, reiterating that such actions only serve to embolden criminal networks and undermine broader counterterrorism efforts. Instead, the government has pledged to intensify its strategies for combating terrorism, focusing on renewed vigour in both military operations and intelligence-driven approaches.

  • Obidient Movement Rejects Abuja Council Poll Results, Urges INEC to Address Allegations

    Obidient Movement Rejects Abuja Council Poll Results, Urges INEC to Address Allegations

    ABUJA, NIGERIA (NPA): The Obidient Movement has rejected the outcome of the Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) chairmanship election held over the weekend, alleging irregularities and violence during the polls. Speaking at the group’s secretariat in Abuja on Monday, National Coordinator Dr. Yunusa Tanko described the election as “a brazen assault on the foundations of democracy,” accusing security agencies and electoral officials of failing to ensure transparency.

    Tanko claimed that party agents were harassed and intimidated, leading to the killing of one agent, Musa Abubakar, at a polling unit in Gwagwa. He alleged that ballot boxes were targeted by hoodlums and that voter apathy was worsened by poor communication from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) regarding polling unit changes. The group, which backed African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate Dr. Moses Paul, demanded a full review of the results and justice for the slain agent.

    The Obidient Movement praised former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi for mobilizing supporters, noting that his involvement boosted turnout despite challenges. Tanko insisted that the people’s mandate was “stolen in broad daylight” and urged INEC to act swiftly to restore confidence in the electoral process. In Saturday’s election, the All Progressives Congress (APC) won five of six council chairmanship seats, while the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) secured victory in Gwagwalada.

  • African Union Condemns Mass Killing of Civilians in Zamfara, Nigeria

    African Union Condemns Mass Killing of Civilians in Zamfara, Nigeria

    ADDIS ABABA, ETHIOPIA (NPA): The African Union Commission has strongly condemned the killing of more than 50 civilians in Zamfara State, Northwestern Nigeria, on 21 February 2026.

    In a statement issued on 22 February, the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, denounced what he described as “heinous and coordinated terrorist attacks” and the “abduction of women and children.” He stressed that the AU “unequivocally rejects all acts of terrorism and violent extremism against civilian populations, particularly women and children, as grave violations of human rights and serious threats to peace, security, and stability.”

    The Chairperson expressed the Union’s solidarity with the Government and people of Nigeria, extending condolences to the bereaved families and wishing a swift recovery to the injured. He reaffirmed the AU’s unwavering support for Nigeria’s efforts to combat insecurity and restore lasting peace.

    Calling for “the immediate, safe, and unconditional release of all abducted women and children,” Youssouf urged strengthened, coordinated, and collective action to protect civilians and prevent the recurrence of such atrocities, in line with the AU’s commitment to peace and stability across the continent.

    Reports indicate that the attack was carried out by armed groups on motorcycles, who overran villages and killed residents indiscriminately. Nigerian security forces have pledged to bring the perpetrators to justice and intensify operations against banditry and terrorism in Africa’s most populous country.

  • Newpost Africa Relaunches, Reaffirms Commitment to World-Class Journalism

    Newpost Africa Relaunches, Reaffirms Commitment to World-Class Journalism

    LAGOS, NIGERIA (NPA): Nigerian media organisation Newpost Africa Media Publishing® (Newpost Africa) has announced its return following a successful restructuring process. The relaunch underscores the company’s renewed commitment to delivering journalism of the highest standards—anchored in integrity, balance, and diversity.

    Positioning itself as “Nigeria’s independent, world-class media organisation”, Newpost Africa emphasized its founding principles of strict editorial neutrality, an uncompromising stance against propaganda, and reporting that informs without bias or distortion. The organisation stressed that credible journalism is indispensable to democratic societies and informed citizenship.

    In a statement issued on February 22, 2026, Newpost Africa encouraged stakeholders and readers to actively engage with its mission. “By sharing perspectives and experiences, you contribute to a platform that values truth, dialogue, and collective responsibility in shaping the public record,” the statement read.

    Driven by a team of seasoned professionals and supported by a global network of journalists and writers, Newpost Africa said it is well-positioned to deliver timely coverage of rapidly evolving stories with speed, clarity, and analytical depth—while maintaining accuracy and editorial discipline.

    Its editorial focus remains firmly on Nigeria and the African continent, ensuring accountability from policymakers, institutions, and power brokers. At the same time, the organisation pledged to continue reporting on international developments that shape Africa’s place in the global context.

    The relaunch, according to the statement, is not merely a return but a reaffirmation of purpose and a strategic commitment to excellence in journalism. “This relaunch is a reaffirmation of our mission to uphold the highest standards of journalism and to serve as a trusted voice in Nigeria, Africa, and beyond,” the organisation noted.

  • NDLEA Arrests Woman with Drugs Concealed in Fake Pregnancy; Ivorian Excretes 82 Cocaine Wraps at Kano Airport

    NDLEA Arrests Woman with Drugs Concealed in Fake Pregnancy; Ivorian Excretes 82 Cocaine Wraps at Kano Airport

    ABUJA, NIGERIA (NPA): Nigeria’s National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has announced a series of major drug trafficking arrests across the country, including a woman who attempted to smuggle tramadol disguised as a pregnancy and an Ivorian national who excreted 82 wraps of cocaine at Kano airport.

    Fake Pregnancy Arrest at Seme Border

    On Monday, February 16, 2026, NDLEA officers intercepted Rabi Muhammad, a 35-year-old businesswoman from Kano, at the Seme land border. The suspect was found with a protruding stomach, which upon inspection turned out to be a pink-colored calabash strapped to her body. Inside were 3,200 capsules of tramadol, concealed to resemble a baby bump. She was reportedly en route to Cotonou, Benin Republic, to sell the drugs.

    Cocaine Ingestion Case in Kano

    In a separate operation, NDLEA officers arrested Michael Gohouri, a 41-year-old Ivorian also known as Anunwa Onyinye Michael, during passenger clearance for Ethiopian Airlines flight ET940 to Milan via Addis Ababa. A body scan revealed he had ingested illicit substances. Under observation, he excreted 82 wraps of cocaine weighing 1.49 kilograms. Investigations showed he had ingested the drugs in Kano and was promised €5,000 upon delivery in Milan.

    Arrest of Kolapo Oladapo Raji, Real Estate CEO

    The agency also apprehended Kolapo Oladapo Raji, 57, Chairman/CEO of Trans Fortress Global Resources, a prominent real estate firm. Raji, who had been on NDLEA’s watchlist since 2025, was arrested at his residence in Lekki, Lagos, on February 12, 2026. Officers recovered 89.2 kilograms of Canadian Loud, a potent strain of cannabis, from four large bags in his apartment.

    Additional Seizures Nationwide

    • Agbara, Ogun State (Feb 19): Ugwuja Kingsley arrested with 56kg of skunk.
    • Oshodi, Lagos (Feb 17): Ekwe Arinze caught with 76kg of skunk.
    • Port Harcourt Ports Complex, Rivers State: Joint operation seized 170,900 bottles of codeine-based syrup.
    • Kogi State (Okene/Lokoja Highway): Two suspects, Ezenma Kingsley (26) and Ezeja Anthony (29), arrested with 7,300 tramadol pills.
    • Ondo State (Feb 19): Bright Timothy (28) and Godwin Bernard arrested with 393kg of skunk and seeds in Iju forest.
    • Bauchi State (Feb 17): Yahaya Adamu Gimba (48) arrested with 936kg of skunk in Azare town; additional 85.8kg recovered from accomplices.
    • Delta State (Feb 17): Mgbeme Ejeoma (34) arrested with 37kg of skunk in Ughelli.
    • Edo State (Feb 17): NDLEA raided Etiosa camp in Owan West LGA, destroying 1,266.8kg of skunk across three farms. Two suspects, including a 68-year-old grandmother, were arrested.

    War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) Campaign

    Alongside enforcement, NDLEA continued its WADA sensitization programs nationwide, holding lectures in schools, worship centers, workplaces, and communities. Recent outreach included Government Girls Secondary School in Yobe, Muslim Community High School in Oyo, and Model Government College in Lagos, among others.

  • Lassa Fever Claims 70 Lives in Nigeria in 2026 — NCDC

    Lassa Fever Claims 70 Lives in Nigeria in 2026 — NCDC

    ABUJA, NIGERIA (NPA): The Director-General of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), Dr. Jide Idris, has confirmed that Lassa fever, a viral haemorrhagic illness endemic in West Africa, has killed 70 people in Nigeria since the beginning of 2026.

    Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja on Friday, Idris disclosed that as of February 15, 2026, Nigeria had recorded 1,469 suspected cases, 318 confirmed infections, and 70 deaths, representing a 22 percent case fatality rate (CFR).

    According to the NCDC, five states — Ebonyi (southeast), Edo (south), Bauchi (northeast), Ondo (southwest), and Taraba (northeast) — account for 91 percent of all confirmed cases nationwide.

    Dr. Idris highlighted several obstacles hampering the national response. He criticized some state governments for failing to provide adequate support, noting that many have not allocated funds for awareness campaigns or community engagement.

    “In many cases, no funding is provided at the state level for robust awareness activities. This has made it difficult to carry out risk communication and community engagement, which are critical in changing behavior in highly affected communities,” he said.

    He also raised concerns about substandard treatment centers, reports of patients absconding, and excessive fees charged by some facilities. In addition, he pointed to shortages of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), inadequate infection prevention and control (IPC) practices, and weak data reporting mechanisms at state and facility levels.

    To strengthen containment, the NCDC has deployed National Rapid Response Teams to eight states — Bauchi, Ondo, Taraba, Edo, Plateau, Benue, and Jigawa — with plans to expand further. The agency has also distributed laboratory testing supplies, medical countermeasures, and PPEs across its national network.

    The Incident Management System (IMS) has been activated to coordinate the national response, alongside weekly National Lassa Fever Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) meetings.

    Dr. Idris urged state governments to intensify active case searches and contact tracing, scale up community risk communication, address treatment cost barriers, and enforce IPC practices across all health facilities. He emphasized the need for stronger coordination among state teams to avoid rivalry and ensure a unified response.

  • Kenyan Parliament Vets Ida Betty Odinga for UNEP Permanent Representative Role

    Kenyan Parliament Vets Ida Betty Odinga for UNEP Permanent Representative Role

    NAIROBI, KENYA (NPA): The Kenyan Parliament on Friday conducted a vetting session for Ida Betty Odinga, widow of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, following her nomination by President William Ruto as Kenya’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).

    The National Assembly Committee on Defence, Intelligence and Foreign Relations assessed her competencies, qualifications, and experience, as well as her ability to advance Kenya’s interests in global environmental diplomacy. The 75-year-old pledged to champion equitable climate financing, strengthen international cooperation, and amplify African voices in shaping global environmental policy. She also outlined plans to diversify funding streams by engaging the private sector and philanthropic partners to sustain UNEP programmes amid declining donor support.

    Raila Odinga, one of Kenya’s most influential political figures, served as Prime Minister from 2008 to 2013 and contested the presidency multiple times between 1997 and 2022. He was widely recognized for his role in advancing constitutional reforms, multiparty democracy, and infrastructure development across Africa, including his tenure as the African Union’s High Representative for Infrastructure Development.

    Odinga passed away on October 15, 2025, at the age of 80 in Kerala, India, after suffering a heart attack, according to agency reports.

  • Sahara Reporters Marks 20 Years of Bold Investigative Journalism

    Sahara Reporters Marks 20 Years of Bold Investigative Journalism

    LAGOS, NIGERIA (NPA): Sahara Reporters, the Nigeria-based online news platform founded in 2006 by activist and journalist Omoyele Sowore, has marked its 20th anniversary. Over two decades, the outlet has built a reputation for fearless investigative reporting, exposing corruption, human rights abuses, and political scandals across Africa.

    Known for its citizen-driven journalism, Sahara Reporters has cultivated a loyal following among Nigerians across regions. Its uncompromising style — often challenging government narratives and holding public officials accountable — has earned praise for promoting transparency, while also drawing criticism from authorities and sparking frequent legal battles.

    In a statement, Sowore reflected on the platform’s journey since its launch in New York. “What began as a bold experiment in citizen-driven investigative reporting grew into a disruptive force that challenged entrenched power, amplified unheard voices, and redefined accountability in Nigerian and African media,” he said. “It proved that journalism could be fearless, borderless, and uncompromising.”

    Sowore paid tribute to the platform’s early supporters, including citizen journalists who risked careers to provide evidence, legal experts who defended it against threats, and a support system that sustained its survival.

    Over the years, Sahara Reporters, the honey badger of the Nigeria media industry, has been credited with several landmark investigations, including:

    • The 2013 exposé on former Aviation Minister Stella Oduah’s purchase of two BMW bulletproof cars at inflated prices, which led to her removal from office.
    • Extensive coverage of the Halliburton bribery scandal, keeping international attention on accountability in Nigeria.
    • The 2014 “Ekiti Election Rigging Tapes,” publishing leaked audio of officials allegedly conspiring to manipulate gubernatorial elections.
    • Persistent reporting on police brutality and abuses by the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), which amplified calls for reform and fueled the #EndSARS protests.
    • Investigations into corruption in Nigeria’s oil sector, including revelations of missing billions in revenue under the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC).

    Despite its achievements, Sowore himself has faced repeated legal challenges, often appearing in court or being taken to court as a result of his activism and the platform’s uncompromising reporting.

  • Abuja Residents Head to the Polls for Area Council Elections

    Abuja Residents Head to the Polls for Area Council Elections

    ABUJA, NIGERIA (NPA) — Voters in Nigeria’s capital, Abuja, will head to polling stations tomorrow to elect chairmen for the six Area Councils of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), including the Abuja Municipal Area Council.

    Unlike in Nigeria’s 36 states, where local government elections are conducted by state electoral commissions, the Abuja council polls are organized and supervised directly by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

    The 2026 Abuja Area Council elections will be the first overseen by the recently appointed INEC Chairman, Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan. The conduct of the polls is widely regarded as a litmus test for his leadership and a precursor to the credibility of the 2027 general elections.

    Tomorrow’s exercise will cover 2,822 polling units, with approximately 1.6 million registered voters expected to participate.

    Since assuming office in October 2025, Professor Amupitan has pledged to deliver free, fair, and transparent elections, emphasizing the restoration of voter confidence by ensuring that every ballot truly counts.

    The Abuja Area Council elections also come in the wake of controversies and protests surrounding recent amendments to Nigeria’s 2022 Electoral Act, passed by both chambers of the National Assembly and signed into law by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. READ HERE