Category: Politics

  • Ebonyi Governor Nwifuru calls for unity, peace in Easter message

    Ebonyi Governor Nwifuru calls for unity, peace in Easter message

    ABAKALIKI, NIGERIA, April 5, 2026 (NPA) — The Governor of Ebonyi State, Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru has extended warm Easter greetings to Christians in Ebonyi and beyond, describing the celebration as a cornerstone of the Christian faith.

    In his Easter message, Nwifuru emphasized that the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ symbolize sacrifice, redemption, and the triumph of light over darkness. He urged citizens to embrace peace, love, humility, and selflessness, noting that the message of Easter is especially relevant in a time of security challenges, economic pressures, and social uncertainties.

    The governor called on residents to rise above division, reject hatred and violence, and promote unity and compassion. He reiterated his administration’s commitment to strengthening security, enhancing community vigilante efforts, and collaborating with stakeholders to safeguard lives and property.

    On infrastructure and development, Nwifuru highlighted ongoing efforts in healthcare delivery, youth empowerment, and agricultural transformation, guided by the People’s Charter of Needs. He stressed that governance alone cannot build a society of collective dreams, urging active participation from all citizens.

    “Therefore, I call on all Christians and indeed all Ebonyians to align with the teachings of Jesus Christ. We must be our brother’s keeper, promote peace in our communities, and extend love and charity to the less privileged,” he said.

    The governor prayed for renewed courage, sacrifice, and faith, expressing confidence that with unity of purpose and God’s guidance, Ebonyi State and Nigeria will overcome challenges and achieve shared progress.

  • Trump threatens Armageddon in 48 hours if Iran fails to open Strait of Hormuz

    Trump threatens Armageddon in 48 hours if Iran fails to open Strait of Hormuz

    INTERNATIONAL, April 5, 2026 (NPA) — U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a dramatic ultimatum, warning that Armageddon (destruction) on Iran will begin Tuesday at 8:00 P.M. Eastern Time if Tehran refuses to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. The closure of the vital shipping lane has already driven up global oil prices, shaking economies worldwide.

    In a fiery post on Truth Social, Trump vowed that Iran’s defiance would trigger the destruction of critical infrastructure, including power plants and bridges. He wrote: “Tuesday, 8:00 P.M. Eastern Time! Tuesday will be Power Plant Day, and Bridge Day, all wrapped up in one, in Iran. There will be nothing like it!!! Open the Strait, you crazy bastards, or you’ll be living in Hell — JUST WATCH!”

    Iran responded with defiance, pledging to set the Middle East ablaze if Trump carries out his threat. Officials in Tehran warned of catastrophic consequences across the Gulf region.

    With less than 48 hours to the deadline, diplomatic efforts are intensifying, but fighting inside Iran shows no sign of easing, leaving the world bracing for what could be a historic escalation.

  • Tinubu approves ₦3.3 trillion power bailout to end Nigeria’s decade of darkness

    Tinubu approves ₦3.3 trillion power bailout to end Nigeria’s decade of darkness

    ABUJA, NIGERIA, April 5, 2026 (NPA) — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved a ₦3.3 trillion payment plan aimed at restoring reliable electricity across Nigeria. The landmark move seeks to finally settle long-standing debts under the Presidential Power Sector Financial Reforms Programme, resolving legacy issues that have crippled the sector for more than a decade.

    According to Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President (Information and Strategy), today, the debts accumulated between February 2015 and March 2025. Following verification, ₦3.3 trillion was agreed as a full and final settlement, ensuring transparency and fairness.

    Implementation is already underway, with 15 power plants signing settlement agreements worth ₦2.3 trillion. The Federal Government has raised ₦501 billion to fund the payments, of which ₦223 billion has been disbursed, with further payments in progress.

    Officials say the bailout will stabilize power generation, improve electricity reliability, and attract new investments. “This programme is not just about settling debts. It is about restoring confidence across the power sector — ensuring gas suppliers are paid, power plants keep running, and the system works more reliably,” explained Olu Arowolo-Verheijen, Special Adviser on Energy to the President.

    She added that reforms also include better metering and service-based tariffs, linking payments to electricity quality, while prioritizing supply to businesses and industries to boost jobs and economic growth.

    President Tinubu commended stakeholders for supporting the resolution of legacy issues and confirmed that the next phase of the programme (Series II) will begin this quarter.

  • ADC denounces leadership change rumors on social media, launches global network to track political participation in Nigeria

    ADC denounces leadership change rumors on social media, launches global network to track political participation in Nigeria

    ABUJA, NIGERIA, April 5, 2026 (NPA) — Nigeria’s main opposition party, the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has dismissed reports circulating about a change in its leadership, describing them as “#FakeNews.” In a statement issued Sunday, the party urged the public to disregard, flag, and report such content wherever it appears online.

    The false reports claimed that Senator David Mark had stepped aside as interim national chairman to allow former chairman Ralph Nwosu to lead the party into its convention. The ADC stressed that the story was fabricated and part of attempts to destabilize the party ahead of the 2027 General Elections.

    Reaffirming its commitment to democracy, the ADC announced the establishment of a Special Representatives Network across key global capitals. The initiative aims to engage foreign governments, international media, democracy institutions, and the Nigerian diaspora to amplify credible information about Nigeria’s political environment and counter what it described as “one-sided government narratives.”

    According to the party, the representatives will provide regular briefings on political developments, human rights concerns, and electoral integrity. The ADC also plans to launch a National Documentation Initiative to systematically track and report incidents affecting political participation across Nigeria. From Washington DC to London, Brussels to Addis Ababa, the party said it is building a global platform for accountability.

    The ADC maintained that it remains united under its current leadership and vowed to continue defending democratic values while resisting attempts to undermine its role in Nigeria’s political process.

  • Thank you for coming: Governor Abiodun hails Tinubu’s historic commissioning in Ogun

    Thank you for coming: Governor Abiodun hails Tinubu’s historic commissioning in Ogun

    ABEOKUTA, NIGERIA, April 5, 2026 (NPA) — Ogun State Governor, Prince Dr. Dapo Abiodun, CON, has described the commissioning of landmark projects in the state by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as both historic and symbolic of the progress Ogun is making toward prosperity and modern development.

    He expressed profound appreciation to the President for honoring the state with his presence and for his unwavering support, noting that the commissioning underscored the strong partnership between the Federal Government and Ogun State in delivering meaningful progress.

    In a statement today, Abiodun extended gratitude to distinguished guests, stakeholders, traditional rulers, party leaders, captains of industry, and development partners who attended the event. He emphasized that their presence and encouragement added great value to the success of the occasion and strengthened collective resolve to push the boundaries of development.

    “To the good people of Ogun State, we say thank you for your continued support, trust, and partnership. Yesterday’s success belongs to all of us, and we remain committed to justifying the confidence you have placed in us by continuing to deliver impactful projects and people-centred governance across every part of our dear state,” he said.

    The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to building a future of shared prosperity and lasting progress, promising to sustain the momentum of development across Ogun State.

  • Edo Governor Okpebholo urges faithful to embrace hope at Easter

    Edo Governor Okpebholo urges faithful to embrace hope at Easter

    BENIN CITY, NIGERIA, April 5, 2026 (NPA) — Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has extended Easter greetings to Christians in the state and across the world, describing the celebration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ as a powerful symbol of hope, renewal, and new beginnings.

    In a statement issued today, the governor noted that the Easter season reflects a renewed spirit across Edo State, reminding citizens that even in challenging times, restoration and progress are always possible.

    He emphasized that Easter is not only a commemoration of Christ’s triumph over death but also a call to embrace resilience and optimism in the face of adversity.

    He urged the faithful to remain united in purpose, guided by faith and strong leadership, as they work together to build a more prosperous future for all.

    Okpebholo added that through unity, compassion, and purposeful action, Edo State can continue to foster growth and ensure that the message of Easter translates into real transformation in the lives of its people.

  • Tinubu lauds Ogun’s development, inaugurates Gateway Cargo Airport, Arline, and others

    Tinubu lauds Ogun’s development, inaugurates Gateway Cargo Airport, Arline, and others

    ABUJA, NIGERIA, April 5, 2026 (NPA) — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has praised the Ogun State government, describing its developmental strides as deliberate and enduring progress that Nigeria must emulate.

    The President made the disclosure following his state visit to Iperu to inaugurate the Gateway International Cargo Airport and the launch of Gateway Air and other operational assets. Tinubu commended Governor Dapo Abiodun’s administration for its vision and consistency. He noted that the new cargo airport is proof of what is possible when discipline meets ambition. “Our investment is about our people. Today’s foundation is for tomorrow’s prosperity,” he said.

    Tinubu emphasized that true development is not about noise but about decisions that improve lives. He highlighted the state’s initiatives, from the newly launched aircraft to electric bikes, tractors, and enhanced security assets, as examples of practical and visible progress. “Development must touch every level, and I am pleased to see that principle taking shape in Ogun State,” he added.

    The president further explained that his Renewed Hope reforms are creating more resources for sub-national governments, enabling states like Ogun to deliver tangible results. “We will stay the course. We are building for people, and we are building for prosperity,” Tinubu affirmed, urging the continuation of the good work.

  • Kemi Badenoch vows to restore church funding, defend Britain’s Christian heritage

    Kemi Badenoch vows to restore church funding, defend Britain’s Christian heritage

    INTERNATIONAL, April 5, 2026 (NPA) — Kemi Badenoch, Leader of the Conservative Party, has declared that Britain is a Christian country, pledging that her party will continue to honour the nation’s Christian heritage through concrete action rather than words alone.

    In her Easter message, Badenoch announced plans to restore funding for the Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme, which had recently been capped by the government. She emphasized that local churches must be properly maintained and repaired, underscoring their role not only as places of worship but also as vital centres of community life.

    “Churches matter,” she said, noting that in towns and villages across the United Kingdom, they stand as symbols of pride and history, often stretching back centuries. Badenoch warned that neglecting them risks losing irreplaceable heritage.

    She reiterated that the Conservative Party believes it has a responsibility to safeguard churches for future generations. “What are we for if not to conserve the very best of our country and our society for those yet to come?” she asked. Her statement concluded with a pledge: “Conservatives will protect our heritage and build a stronger country.”

  • Peter Obi urges Nigerians to hold fast to hope amid hardship in Easter message

    Peter Obi urges Nigerians to hold fast to hope amid hardship in Easter message

    ABUJA, NIGERIA, April 5, 2026 (NPA) — Mr. Peter Obi, ADC chieftain and former Labour Party presidential candidate, in his Easter message to Nigerians, urged citizens to remain steadfast in hope as they commemorate Easter amid ongoing difficulties. He prayed that the season would inspire renewed faith and strengthen belief in the possibility of a better Nigeria.

    Obi noted that as Christians mark the resurrection of Jesus Christ, even in challenging times, they must hold firmly to hope. He reminded Nigerians that “Good Friday must come before Easter Sunday,” stressing that present hardships should not define the nation’s future.

    Acknowledging the heavy burden many families face due to economic hardship, Obi said: “As we share in your struggles, we urge you not to lose heart. These difficult moments are temporary trials—our collective ‘cross’—that can lead to renewal if we remain resilient and committed to the common good.”

    He further emphasized that Nigeria continues to grapple with serious challenges, particularly in governance and its impact on daily life. Yet, Easter serves as a reminder that after sacrifice comes renewal, and after darkness comes light. According to him, a better Nigeria is achievable when citizens collectively choose accountability, compassion, and responsible leadership.

    Obi expressed confidence that, through God’s grace and the determination of the people, the journey ahead will lead to a brighter future. Though the road may be rough, he affirmed belief in a Nigeria that works for everyone.

    “May this Easter renew our faith, strengthen our resolve, and inspire us to work together for a just and prosperous nation,” his statement concluded.

  • Obi Reminds Nigerians: Tinubu Said, “If I Don’t Deliver Constant Power in Four Years, Don’t Vote for Me Again”

    Obi Reminds Nigerians: Tinubu Said, “If I Don’t Deliver Constant Power in Four Years, Don’t Vote for Me Again”

    ABUJA, NIGERIA, April 4, 2026 (NPA) — A chieftain of the All Democratic Congress (ADC) and presidential aspirant, Mr. Peter Obi, has urged Nigerians not to re-elect President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, citing his failure to deliver on his campaign promise of constant electricity.

    Obi recalled Tinubu’s 2023 pledge: “If I don’t give you constant electricity in four years, don’t vote for me for a second term.” He noted that when Tinubu assumed office, Nigeria’s power supply averaged over 4,000 megawatts with lower tariffs. Today, supply has dropped below that level while tariffs have risen, leaving Nigeria with the lowest per capita electricity consumption globally—just 144 kWh compared to Africa’s average of 617 kWh.

    In a statement, Obi pointed to Tinubu’s own remarks during a brief stop in Jos on April 2, 2026, where he visited families affected by recent attacks. Tinubu reportedly said: “You have no light here. I fly out in ten minutes.” Obi argued that the comment underscored the President’s disregard for citizens enduring prolonged blackouts.

    “At a time when Nigerians are enduring days without power, our leaders cannot even stay a few minutes without it,” the statement read.

    Obi concluded by calling for accountability and change: “Now is the time to stop incompetent leaders—those lacking the capacity and compassion—who prioritise their own comfort over the well-being of the people and make empty promises.”