New Post Africa

Category: Politics

  • Police Declare Manfred Ekpe, ADC Spokesperson in Akwa Ibom State, Wanted

    Police Declare Manfred Ekpe, ADC Spokesperson in Akwa Ibom State, Wanted

    UYO, NIGERIA (NPA) — The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has declared Barrister Manfred Ekpe, spokesperson for the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Akwa Ibom State, wanted on allegations of cyberstalking, threats to life, criminal defamation, intimidation, and conduct likely to cause a breach of public peace.

    Ekpe, a constitutional lawyer and community rights activist, is widely known for his outspoken criticism of government policies, particularly on environmental and community issues. He has publicly challenged state officials over the legal status and management of the Stubbs Creek Forest Reserve, accusing them of misrepresenting the law.

    The activist has also accused Governor Umo Eno of using state institutions to suppress dissent and intimidate critics, especially those active on social media.

    While police authorities maintain that Ekpe is wanted in connection with criminal allegations, the lawyer insists the charges are politically motivated, stemming from his criticism of the governor and his administration.

  • NSCDC Urges Federal Government to Boost Manpower for Effective Security Delivery

    NSCDC Urges Federal Government to Boost Manpower for Effective Security Delivery

    ABUJA, NIGERIA (NPA): As the global community marks World Civil Defence Day 2026, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has called on the Federal Government to increase its manpower to enable the agency to fulfill its constitutional responsibilities more effectively and address the nation’s security challenges.

    The appeal was made during a lecture delivered by Professor Tyoor Fredrick Terhemba in Abuja, as part of activities commemorating the event. Speaking on the theme “Managing Environmental Risk for a Resilient Future: A Civil Defence Perspective,” Prof. Terhemba emphasized that human assets, utilities, and property remain the most critical national infrastructures, underscoring the need to strengthen the NSCDC’s workforce to meet international standards of policing.

    The NSCDC, a member of the International Civil Defence Organization (ICDO), reiterated its vital role in disaster management, mitigating environmental hazards, and safeguarding critical national infrastructure.

    In a statement issued by ACC Afolabi Babawale, National Public Relations Officer of the NSCDC, the agency announced that activities marking World Civil Defence Day 2026 would conclude on Friday with a grand finale at the NSCDC National Headquarters Parade Ground in Abuja.

    Commandant General Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi also urged the Corps to enhance its intelligence-gathering capacity, assuring that the NSCDC remains committed to discharging its core mandate in protecting lives and property.

  • Narendra Modi Visits Holocaust Museum, Calls for Humanity, Dignity, and Peace

    Narendra Modi Visits Holocaust Museum, Calls for Humanity, Dignity, and Peace

    JERUSALEM, ISRAEL (NPA): Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, currently on a two-day visit to Israel for bilateral talks and to strengthen defense cooperation, on Thursday visited Yad Vashem, the World Holocaust Remembrance Center.

    In a statement posted on his official X account, Modi expressed gratitude to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for accompanying him during the visit. “I placed a wreath at Yad Vashem, the World Holocaust Remembrance Center. I am grateful to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for accompanying me during this visit,” he wrote.

    Modi also toured the Hall of Names, a solemn memorial space that preserves the memory of those who suffered and perished during the Holocaust. Reflecting on the experience, he stated: “The Holocaust stands as one of the darkest chapters in human history. It is an eternal reminder of the need to uphold humanity, dignity, and peace.”

    Yad Vashem, located on the western slope of Mount Herzl in Jerusalem, serves as Israel’s official memorial to the victims of the Holocaust. The center is dedicated to preserving their memory, honoring survivors, and educating future generations about the atrocities of the Holocaust.

  • US Igbo Veterans Wants America to Create a Safe Zone for Judeo-Christians, Call for Nigeria’s Restructuring

    US Igbo Veterans Wants America to Create a Safe Zone for Judeo-Christians, Call for Nigeria’s Restructuring

    FLORIDA, U.S. (NPA) — The American Veterans of Igbo Descent (AVID), a U.S.-based non-profit military organization composed of men and women of Igbo heritage who have served or are serving in the U.S. Armed Forces, has urged Washington to establish a sovereign safe zone for Judeo-Christians and to support the restructuring of Nigeria.

    In a letter dated February 25, 2026, and signed by AVID President Chief Dr. Sylvester Onyia, the group argued that such a measure would enable persecuted Christians to live and worship freely, shielded from extremist violence. “This initiative aligns with America’s commitment to self-determination, religious liberty, and protecting vulnerable populations, representing a significant step toward addressing the ongoing genocide,” the letter stated.

    The appeal was addressed to Representative Riley McGowan Moore, a member of a U.S. congressional committee tasked by President Donald Trump to investigate violence against Christians in Nigeria. AVID expressed gratitude for the committee’s findings, particularly its conclusion that “Nigeria is the deadliest place in the world to be a Christian.”

    The group highlighted documentation of mass killings, kidnappings, and the destruction of churches and schools, stressing the urgency of decisive international action. It welcomed the committee’s recommendation for the repeal of Sharia codes and criminal anti-blasphemy laws in Nigeria, describing them as essential steps toward safeguarding religious freedom and human rights.

    Read the group’s letter below:

  • Netanyahu to Modi: “From the Indus Valley to the Jordan Valley, India and Israel Share Ancient Civilizational Bonds”

    Netanyahu to Modi: “From the Indus Valley to the Jordan Valley, India and Israel Share Ancient Civilizational Bonds”

    JERUSALEM, ISRAEL (NPA): Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has emphasized the enduring relationship between Israel and India, describing both nations as “two ancient civilizations, from the Indus Valley to the Jordan Valley.” He made the remarks during a special session of the Knesset in honour of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is on a two-day state visit to Israel.

    Netanyahu, in a statement posted Wednesday on X, said: “Our alliance multiplies our strengths — in spirit, in action, and in innovation. Together, we will take the friendship between our peoples to unprecedented heights.”

    Addressing the Knesset, Modi highlighted the deep-rooted friendship between the two countries and the goodwill of the Indian people toward Israel. He was awarded the Medal of the Knesset, which he described as “not a tribute to an individual, but to the enduring friendship between India and Israel. It reflects the shared values that guide our two nations.”

    Following the session, both leaders toured an exhibition showcasing Israeli technological innovations. Modi praised the pioneering work of Israeli youth in fields such as artificial intelligence, quantum computing, healthcare, cybersecurity, water management, and agriculture. He encouraged Israeli companies to invest in India and collaborate with Indian talent.

    Modi’s visit, taking place from February 25–26, 2026, includes bilateral talks with Netanyahu aimed at strengthening cooperation in defence, technology, agriculture, water resources, and trade.

  • Crisis Response: EU-project Delivers New Veterinary Clinic to Katsina Government

    Crisis Response: EU-project Delivers New Veterinary Clinic to Katsina Government

    KATSINA, NIGERIA (Agency Report): Mercy Corps, a Non – Governmental Organisation, on Wednesday, handed over a newly constructed Veterinary Clinic and a rehabilitated structure in Danmusa Local Government Area (LGA), to the Katsina State Government.

    The project, which included a 20,000-litre capacity upgraded solar-powered borehole, was executed under the European Union-funded Conflict Prevention, Crisis Response and Resilience (CPCRR) project.

    The initiative is being implemented in collaboration with the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), and the Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD).

    Speaking during the event, the Commissioner for Livestock and Animal Husbandry in Kastina State, Prof Ahmed Bakori, commended Mercy Corps and its partners on such commitment to support  peace and development in the state.

    While praising the state government for restoring peace and stability, the said project would improve livestock services and the welfare of farmers who depend on animal health services for  livelihood.

    Bakori buttressed that improved security in the state had enabled development partners to implement meaningful interventions in communities affected earlier.

    He said, “Recently, Gov. Dikko Radda was in South Africa to explore strategies for boosting livestock production and strengthening the livestock value chain in line with the government’s economic development agenda.”

    In his remarks, Mercy Corps Senior Programme Manager, Mr Philip Ikita, expressed satisfaction with the timely and successful implementation of the project in Danmusa.

    He stated that although Mercy Corps began its operations in the state in 2023, security challenges had initially prevented the organisation from accessing some areas, including Danmusa.

    Ikita said that the project would improve access to essential services, strengthen livelihoods, and contribute to sustaining peace in the community.

    “The project involves the upgrade of a veterinary clinic from a two-room structure into a fully functional six-office facility, embarked on to strengthen livestock healthcare services in the area.

    “The programme builds on the success of the Conflict Mitigation and Community Reconciliation (CMCR) project and seeks to promote long-term peace and stability in Northwest Nigeria.

    “It works across 48 communities in Zamfara and Katsina States, addressing the root causes of conflict, enhancing community resilience, and strengthening socio-economic recovery,” he said.

    Also, the District Head of Danmusa, Ahmadu Abubakar, expressed appreciation to Mercy Corps and its partners for the intervention, describing the projects as timely and beneficial.

    Earlier, the Chairman of Danmusa LGA, Ibrahim Na-Mama, represented by his Deputy, Musa Muhammad, expressed appreciation for the projects, assuring that the council would support efforts to safeguard them. (NAN).

  • Master AI, Embrace Cybersecurity, Build Solutions: Governor Mbah Urges Enugu Youths

    Master AI, Embrace Cybersecurity, Build Solutions: Governor Mbah Urges Enugu Youths

    ENUGU, NIGERIA (NPA): Enugu State Governor, Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, has called on the youths of the state to embrace technology and innovation as critical drivers of development. He made the remarks in his opening address at the second edition of the Enugu Tech Festival.

    Governor Mbah emphasized that “technology and innovation are not accessories to development; they are the operating system of modern progress. Across the world, ideas, code, and creativity are redefining economies. Here in Enugu, we have made a deliberate decision — we will not be spectators in this revolution. We will be producers.”

    Highlighting his administration’s policy focus on advancing school infrastructure and redefining learning, he outlined initiatives designed to build a new ecosystem where innovation can thrive. These include:

    •             Smart Green Schools equipped with robotics, artificial intelligence, and applied engineering.

    •             Digital governance platforms to improve transparency and efficiency.

    •             GIS-driven land administration to restore credibility in the real estate sector.

    •             Expanded digital infrastructure to power a knowledge-based economy.

    The governor urged young people in Enugu and beyond to seize the opportunities available: “Master artificial intelligence. Learn cybersecurity. Build solutions. The tools are here. The environment is here. The opportunity is here.”

    Reflecting on the state’s history, he noted: “A century ago, Enugu was known for what it extracted. This generation will be known for what it designs.”

    Earlier, Newpost Africa reported that under the administration’s “Tomorrow is Here” mantra, Enugu inaugurated the Haier Factory — a $20 million Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) project by China’s Haier Global Business Group in partnership with the state government. The facility, located in Enugu city, positions the state as a hub for the production of smartphones, tablets, computers, smart boards, Android televisions, education and health technologies, as well as renewable energy solutions for electricity, agriculture, and transportation.

  • Tinubu Urges Acting IGP Disu to Restore Public Confidence in Police

    Tinubu Urges Acting IGP Disu to Restore Public Confidence in Police

    ABUJA, NIGERIA (NPA): President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Wednesday decorated the newly appointed Acting Inspector General of Police (AIG), Tunji Disu, following the resignation of his predecessor, Kayode Egbetokun.

    During the ceremony, the President charged Disu to “restore peace and strengthen security nationwide,” emphasizing the need to rebuild public trust in the police.

    Expressing confidence in the appointee, Tinubu urged Disu to lead firmly but fairly, demand professionalism at all levels, and prioritize the safety of lives and property. “It’s a daunting challenge. I know you can do it. You have my word, you have my full support,” Tinubu added.

    In a statement issued by the State House Press Office and signed by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information & Strategy, Tinubu described the appointment as coming at a critical moment. He tasked Disu with rebuilding public confidence in the police’s capacity to collaborate effectively with other security agencies and to advance the security pillars of the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

    “Nigeria is challenged with banditry, terrorism, and other criminal activities. You will be part of the thinking and innovation to overcome them,” the President said.

    The Nigeria Police Council is expected to meet next week to ratify the appointment, after which Senate confirmation will follow.

  • Nigerian Immigration Officers Accused of Arresting and Extorting Youths En Route to Visit Mazi Nnamdi Kanu

    Nigerian Immigration Officers Accused of Arresting and Extorting Youths En Route to Visit Mazi Nnamdi Kanu

    LAGOS, NIGERIA (NPA): Three Nigerian youths have alleged that officers of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) arrested, detained, and extorted money from them on 22 February 2026, while they were travelling from Kano to Sokoto to visit the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Mazi Nnamdi Kanu.

    According to a report and video obtained by Sahara Reporters, the youths claimed they were stopped at a checkpoint at the entrance of Zamfara State, detained for seven hours, and later abandoned after being forced to pay money.

    One of the victims, identified as Cruise Naija, recounted:

    “On our way to visit Mazi Nnamdi Kanu in Sokoto, we were arrested and detained for seven hours, extorted, and left stranded in Zamfara State by Nigeria Immigration.”

    He alleged that the officers accused them of attempting to travel illegally to Libya, despite their explanation that they were heading to Sokoto. Their bags and phones were searched, and photographs showing him with activist Omoyele Sowore and other Nigerian activists were reportedly used to brand him an “activist.”

    The youths further claimed they were denied access to make phone calls and warned about the dangers of the area. They said they were taken into a room where other detainees were being held and told to pay ₦200,000, plus ₦30,000 for transportation to Sokoto.

    After allegedly paying ₦30,000 through a Point-of-Sale (POS) operator, they were placed on a truck. However, the driver later claimed he had only received ₦3,000, leaving them stranded without funds. They said they had to call friends and relatives to send money before continuing their journey.

    The Nigeria Immigration Service has not yet issued an official response to the allegations.

  • Peter Obi Condemns Edo Violence, Calls for Collective Action

    Peter Obi Condemns Edo Violence, Calls for Collective Action

    LAGOS, NIGERIA (NPA): Former Labour Party presidential candidate and African Democratic Congress (ADC) chieftain, Mr Peter Obi, has expressed gratitude to Nigerians and the international community following an attack by suspected political hoodlums in Benin City, Edo State, on February 24, 2026.

    In a statement issued on February 25, Obi paid tribute to former Edo State governors Chief John Oyegun and Professor Oserheimen Osunbor, describing them as leaders who “served Nigeria honourably in various capacities.” He noted that their support reinforced his faith in shared humanity and the collective hope for a better Nigeria.

    Reflecting on the incident, Obi recalled his own experience with political violence during his tenure as governor of Anambra State. He said such challenges had strengthened his resolve to pursue leadership positions, emphasizing that governance must restore order, security, and public trust.

    Calling on citizens not to be intimidated, Obi stated: “The growing lawlessness across our country calls upon all men and women of goodwill to step forward—not in fear but with a sense of responsibility. As Plato reminded us, the price good people pay for refusing to participate in government is to live under the rule of bad people. This moment urges Nigerians to be even more resolute in electing leaders defined by competence, commitment, character, and compassion—leaders who prioritise the nation above self and service above power.”

    Obi reaffirmed his intention to contest the 2027 presidential election. With political alliances forming ahead of the polls—where incumbent President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu is expected to seek a second term—the dynamics of Nigeria’s political landscape remain uncertain as the election season approaches.