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Category: Politics

  • Aviation Minister Keyamo weighs in on ADC deregistration, says INEC is right

    Aviation Minister Keyamo weighs in on ADC deregistration, says INEC is right

    ABUJA, NIGERIA, 3 April 2026 (NPA) — Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, has reacted to Wednesday’s deregistration of African Democratic Congress (ADC) Chairman David Mark and others from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) website, citing a court ruling over the party’s leadership.

    Keyamo said the faction led by Mark was relying on sentiment and blackmail to escape a legal situation of its own making. He stressed that law is based on facts, evidence and interpretation, not sympathy or political considerations.

    In a statement on Friday, the Minister warned that arguments about “status quo ante bellum” were misplaced, noting that the real issue is a pending court case over the party’s leadership. He cautioned that, unless resolved, both factions risk leaving the ADC without candidates after INEC’s nomination deadline.

    He urged the party to thank INEC for its timely action, which serves as a warning and gives room to either seek an accelerated hearing, politically settle the dispute, or find a new platform.

    Keyamo dismissed claims of external interference, saying neither APC nor INEC pushed politicians to hijack a platform without sound legal advice. He added that if the factions insist on proceeding with congresses and conventions despite INEC’s decision and the Court of Appeal ruling, “that is fine by us. Never interrupt your opponent when he is making a mistake.”

  • South Sudan Crisis: UN experts urge immediate civilian protection amid escalating crisis

    South Sudan Crisis: UN experts urge immediate civilian protection amid escalating crisis

    AFRICA, 3 April 2026 (NPA) — UN experts have warned that South Sudan is sliding into a catastrophic human rights and humanitarian crisis, urging urgent steps to protect civilians, ensure humanitarian access, and enable displaced persons to return safely.

    “South Sudan stands at a critical juncture,” the experts said, calling on all parties to cease hostilities and engage in dialogue.

    Over 267,000 people have been displaced in Jonglei state alone this year, with women and children making up the majority. Evacuation orders in densely populated areas already hosting refugees were described as deeply disturbing, risking further displacement and grave harm.

    The experts voiced alarm at widespread violence, including sexual assaults against women and girls, mass displacement across several states, and indiscriminate attacks on civilians and aid workers. They noted acute food insecurity, lack of shelter, and disrupted education affecting over 300 schools and 300,000 learners.

    Reports of destroyed water sources, looted homes, and attacks on hospitals, schools and places of worship, if verified, would constitute serious violations of international humanitarian law and may amount to war crimes.

    They urged swift international action, warning that millions risk being left without life‑saving assistance. Bureaucratic restrictions and attacks on aid workers were said to be critically undermining relief efforts.

    “The principles of distinction, proportionality and precaution must be respected. Civilians and humanitarian personnel must be protected at all times,” the experts stressed, adding that ending impunity is essential to halt the cycle of violence.

    The experts confirmed they remain in contact with the Government of South Sudan.

  • Ramaphosa condemns US-Israeli war on Iran, reaffirms South Africa’s sovereignty

    Ramaphosa condemns US-Israeli war on Iran, reaffirms South Africa’s sovereignty

    AFRICA, 3 April 2026 (NPA) — South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa has strongly condemned the ongoing US‑Israeli war against Iran, describing it as “another act of imperialist aggression that has placed the global economy and international security at great risk.” He made the remarks on 29 March during the African National Congress elective conference in Limpopo.

    Ramaphosa’s comments come amid heightened tensions between Pretoria and Washington. Since January 2025, the United States has accused South Africa of committing “white genocide” against Afrikaners — allegations Ramaphosa’s government has dismissed as baseless and unsupported by evidence.

    Relations further soured when the US ambassador to South Africa, Leo Brent Bozell III, criticised a Johannesburg Equality Court ruling that found the anti‑apartheid chant “Kill the Boer, Kill the Farmer” did not constitute hate speech. On 10 March, Pretoria summoned the ambassador, demanding an apology for what it described as an “undiplomatic” attempt to undermine South Africa’s sovereignty.

    In Limpopo, Ramaphosa reiterated South Africa’s independent foreign policy, rejecting external pressure to abandon proceedings against Israel at the International Court of Justice. “South Africa has stood firm in the face of very powerful and vicious global forces working to undermine the sovereignty of other nations,” he said, adding that his country’s stance is rooted in principle.

    He pledged continued support for nations facing US pressure, including Palestine, Cuba and Western Sahara, affirming South Africa’s commitment to self‑determination and Pan‑African solidarity. “We will not be pushed around. Our sovereignty is sacrosanct,” Ramaphosa declared.

  • Abia Governor Alex Otti felicitates Christians on Good Friday

    Abia Governor Alex Otti felicitates Christians on Good Friday

    ABUJA, NIGERIA, 3 April 2026 (NPA) — The Governor of Abia State, Dr Alex Otti, has extended warm felicitations to Christian faithful in Nigeria and across the world as they mark the solemn occasion of Good Friday.

    In his message, Governor Otti reflected on the significance of the day, noting: “I join Christian faithful across Nigeria and beyond in solemn reflection on the ultimate sacrifice of our Lord Jesus Christ. His selfless love, humility, and unwavering obedience to the will of God remain timeless virtues that inspire us all.”

    He emphasised that the commemoration of Christ’s passion and death serves as a reminder of the boundless grace flowing from His sacrifice — a grace that calls humanity to live with compassion, forgiveness, unity, and renewed devotion to the common good.

    Governor Otti further urged Christians to allow the lessons of Good Friday to strengthen their faith, deepen their bonds as one people, and guide society towards a future built on love, peace, and justice.

    “I wish all Christians a blessed Good Friday,” he concluded, expressing hope that the sacred day would inspire collective renewal and moral courage in the face of challenges confronting the nation.

  • Tinubu in Jos, vows justice for victims terrorist attack

    Tinubu in Jos, vows justice for victims terrorist attack

    ABUJA, NIGERIA, 3 April 2026 (NPA) — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has pledged to bring to justice those responsible for last Sunday’s killings in Angwan Rukuba, Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State.

    The President made the vow during his visit to Jos, where he met with victims and stakeholders affected by the attacks. While commiserating with families, Tinubu stressed that no amount of compensation could replace the lives lost, but assured them that the Federal Government would provide support and stand by them in their grief.

    Speaking directly to one of the victims, Rhoda Favour, whose son Ayuba was killed, Tinubu said: “I feel your pain, but no matter what we say, we cannot bring Ayuba back.”

    He promised that the perpetrators of the massacre would be tracked down and prosecuted, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to improving security across the country. “We will find the perpetrators of these dastardly acts,” he vowed.

    No fewer than 15 people were killed in the Jos North terrorist attack.

    Eyewitnesses reported that the attackers, riding motorcycles, opened fire indiscriminately around 7:30 p.m., leaving several others critically injured. Panic spread quickly through the community as residents fled for safety.

    Security forces under Operation Enduring Peace were swiftly deployed to restore calm and prevent further bloodshed. In response, the Plateau State Government imposed a strict 48‑hour curfew in the area to halt any escalation of violence.

  • Ghana and Zimbabwe forge stronger ties with landmark bilateral agreements

    Ghana and Zimbabwe forge stronger ties with landmark bilateral agreements

    AFRICA, 3 April 2026 (NPA) — Ghana and Zimbabwe have pledged to elevate their relations following high‑level bilateral talks between President John Dramani Mahama of Ghana and visiting Zimbabwean President Emmerson D. Mnangagwa in Accra on Thursday, 2 April 2026. The meeting formed part of President Mnangagwa’s three‑day State Visit to Ghana.

    The dialogue covered a wide range of issues aimed at strengthening cooperation and delivering tangible benefits to citizens of both nations. Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the talks reaffirmed the historic bond of friendship and underscored the opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). President Mahama emphasised that the AfCFTA provides a platform to boost trade and spur economic growth, adding that Ghana will from 25 May — African Union Day — introduce free e‑visas for all Africans to accelerate continental integration, Pan‑Africanism and tourism.

    President Mnangagwa lauded Ghana’s support during Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle and acknowledged the contribution of Ghanaian personnel in education, health and the judiciary. He paid tribute to Vice President Jane Naana Opoku Agyemang for her role as Chancellor of the Women’s University in Africa, and to the late Ambassador Ebenezer Moses Debrah for his role in establishing Zimbabwe’s Foreign Service. He welcomed the outcome of the Ghana‑Zimbabwe Business Round Table and stressed the importance of private sector collaboration and people‑to‑people exchanges, including a sister‑city initiative between Cape Coast and Victoria Falls.

    The two countries signed eleven Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) and agreements, covering political and diplomatic consultations, cooperation in sports, health, energy, tourism, archives, and the construction of a Museum of African Liberation. Trade and investment partnerships were also sealed between ZimTrade and the Ghana Export Promotion Authority, as well as between Geo‑Pomona Waste Management Private Limited and Ghana’s Jospong Group of Companies.

    In their closing remarks, Presidents Mahama and Mnangagwa reaffirmed their commitment to work together at bilateral and multilateral levels to strengthen the bonds of friendship and broaden cooperation across diverse sectors.

  • Adeleke inaugurates ₦150 Million MicCom Endowment at OAU

    Adeleke inaugurates ₦150 Million MicCom Endowment at OAU

    OSHOGBO, NIGERIA, 2 April 2026 (NPA) — Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, on Thursday, attended the inauguration of the ₦150 million MicCom Memorial Endowment for Engineering Development at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile Ife, in honour of the late Engr. Michael Ayantunde Ponnle and Engr. (Mrs) Comfort Olufunke Ponnle.

    Governor Adeleke described the lives of the honourees as exemplifying vision, innovation and a shared commitment to national development. 

    He noted that through enterprise, mentorship and dedication to excellence, they demonstrated that Nigerian engineers can build, compete and lead at the highest level.

    In a statement, the governor said the endowment represents a strategic investment in the future, designed to support academic excellence, strengthen research and innovation, bridge the gap between theory and practice, and nurture responsible, value‑driven engineers.

    He commended the Ponle family for the initiative, stressing that it ensures the legacy of the late patriots continues to inspire future generations. “As a government, we remain committed to supporting education, innovation and partnerships that drive sustainable development in Osun State,” Adeleke affirmed.

  • Obidient movement unleashes #OccupyINEC protest, demands Chairman’s resignation

    Obidient movement unleashes #OccupyINEC protest, demands Chairman’s resignation

    ABUJA, NIGERIA, 2 April 2026 (NPA) — The Obidient Movement, a political group backing former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, has called on members nationwide to occupy the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) after the Commission delisted the National Chairman of the All Democratic Congress (ADC) from its portal, citing a court ruling.

    In a statement issued Thursday by worldwide coordinator Dr Yunusa Tanko, the group described the move as a direct threat to Nigeria’s democracy. “There are moments in the life of a nation when silence becomes dangerous and inaction becomes complicity. Nigeria has arrived at such a moment,” the statement read.

    The group accused INEC of losing credibility under the current administration and outlined four major demands:

    • The resignation of the INEC Chairman for gross abuse of office and loss of public trust.
    • An immediate end to political persecution, intimidation, and harassment of opposition voices.
    • Protection of Nigeria’s multi‑party democracy, halting all actions that undermine opposition parties.
    • Full respect for party autonomy, ensuring political parties like ADC are free from interference.

    Tanko announced that a nationwide peaceful protest, branded #OccupyINEC, would commence immediately across all states and the Federal Capital Territory. In Abuja, participants will gather at the ADC National Headquarters before marching to INEC Headquarters.

    “This moment goes beyond party lines. It is about the survival of democratic values and the protection of the Nigerian state itself,” the statement declared. The group vowed to remain peaceful and lawful but firm in resisting any slide towards a one‑party state.

    “A New Nigeria is possible — but only if we defend it,” the statement concluded.

  • Tinubu postpones Ogun trip, heads to Plateau after terrorist massacre

    Tinubu postpones Ogun trip, heads to Plateau after terrorist massacre

    ABUJA, NIGERIA, 02 April 2026 (NPA) — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has postponed his planned visit to Iperu, Ogun State, declaring that his foremost duty is to stand with the people of Plateau State following the weekend massacre by terrorists.

    In a statement issued late Wednesday, the President announced he will travel to Jos to commiserate with bereaved families and to assure citizens that those who spread fear and violence will not succeed.

    Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s determination to strengthen Nigeria’s security response and ensure justice by bringing the perpetrators of the heinous crime to account.

    According to the statement, after his visit to Plateau, the President will proceed to Lagos to observe Good Friday before continuing with scheduled engagements in Ogun, Lagos, and Bayelsa. These activities will focus on infrastructure, trade, and economic growth.

    “In moments of grief, we must stand together. In moments of progress, we must keep building. The work continues. Nigeria First,” the statement read.

  • INEC deletes Senator David Mark and others from its portal as ADC leaders, awaits court ruling

    INEC deletes Senator David Mark and others from its portal as ADC leaders, awaits court ruling

    ABUJA, NIGERIA, 01 April 2026 (NPA) — The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has reaffirmed its commitment to neutrality and strict compliance with judicial directives in the ongoing leadership tussle within the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

    In a statement signed by National Commissioner Mohammed Kudu Haruna, Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, INEC addressed the Court of Appeal’s ruling in Appeal No. CA/ABJ/145/2026 between Senator David Mark and Hon. Nafiu Bala Gombe. The Commission noted that it had received conflicting letters from legal representatives of both parties, each demanding recognition of their client as the rightful leader of the ADC.

    The Court of Appeal, in its judgment delivered on 12 March 2026, dismissed Senator Mark’s interlocutory appeal and ordered all parties to maintain the status quo ante bellum pending the determination of the substantive suit before the Federal High Court. The court also directed an accelerated hearing of the case and warned against actions that could prejudice proceedings.

    INEC explained that the ADC’s National Working Committee, led by Senator Mark, was uploaded to its portal in September 2025, shortly after the suit was filed. However, in compliance with the appellate court’s preservatory orders, the Commission has resolved to remove those names and refrain from recognising or engaging with either faction until the Federal High Court delivers its judgment.

    The Commission further stated it will not monitor or acknowledge any meetings, congresses, or conventions convened by the party during the pendency of the case, stressing that doing so could undermine judicial processes.

    INEC concluded by urging political parties and stakeholders to act responsibly and avoid jeopardising preparations for the 2027 General Election, reiterating its unwavering commitment to impartiality and respect for the rule of law.