New Post Africa

Category: Politics

  • Okpebholo rebuilds Ekpoma POWA Market, disburses ₦200m to fire-affected traders

    Okpebholo rebuilds Ekpoma POWA Market, disburses ₦200m to fire-affected traders

    BENIN CITY, Nigeria — 14 April 2026 (NPA) — The Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, on Tuesday presented cheques of ₦8 million each, totalling ₦200 million, to traders affected by the recent fire that gutted the POWA Market in the Ekpoma axis of the state.

    The governor also announced that the market had been rebuilt, bringing relief to the affected traders and giving them a fresh start after the tragedy and losses they suffered in the inferno.

    Okpebholo said, “A few days ago, I made a promise to the traders affected by the POWA Market fire in Ekpoma. Today, I have fulfilled that promise.”

    “We have rebuilt the market, and I personally presented the cheques to each of the affected traders as we disbursed ₦200 million in support, with every shop owner receiving ₦8 million to help them restart their businesses.”

    The governor explained that the intervention was driven by his understanding of the pain and disruption the fire caused, stressing that his administration’s priority is restoring not just livelihoods, but hope and dignity. “This is what governance means to me: standing with our people and taking real action when it matters most,” he said.

    He reiterated his administration’s commitment to always stand by the people and ensure their welfare is met. “We will continue to do more to support our people and put smiles on the faces of Edo families. A New Edo has risen,” the statement concluded.

  • BREAKING: Nigeria’s Supreme Court grants accelerated hearing in PDP Appeal

    BREAKING: Nigeria’s Supreme Court grants accelerated hearing in PDP Appeal

    ABUJA, Nigeria — 14 April 2026 (NPA) — The Supreme Court of Nigeria has granted an accelerated hearing in the appeal filed by the Kabiru Tanimu Turaki-led faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

    In a ruling delivered on Tuesday, the Court directed all respondents to file their processes within five days and fixed April 22, 2026, for the hearing of the substantive appeal.

    The respondents had initially requested 20 days to respond, later agreeing to 10, but the Court shortened the timeline to five days, citing the urgency of the matter.

    The Turaki-led PDP faction is asking the apex court to overturn a Court of Appeal ruling that upheld a Federal High Court decision halting the party’s national convention in Ibadan in November 2025. The appellants argue that the lower court lacked jurisdiction over the case.

    The Supreme Court’s decision sets the stage for a critical hearing that could determine the future of the PDP’s internal leadership and convention processes.

  • Ononuga brands Obi ‘opportunistic’ as ex-governor vows never to be part of rigged primaries, bribing judges

    Ononuga brands Obi ‘opportunistic’ as ex-governor vows never to be part of rigged primaries, bribing judges

    ABUJA, Nigeria — 14 April 2026 (NPA) — Presidential Spokesperson Bayo Ononuga has described Mr Peter Obi, a chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and presidential aspirant, as “peripatetic, opportunistic and inconsistent,” following Obi’s televised remarks on his political trajectory.

    Ononuga’s comments came in response to Obi’s interview with Arise Television, where the former Anambra State governor outlined his movement from the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and later to the ADC. Obi said he left APGA due to destructive governance by his successor, and departed PDP over what he termed “transactional politics” and entrenched corruption.

    Obi argued that critics who questioned his exit from PDP were themselves complicit in the party’s failings, likening their actions to “setting fire to a house” in hopes of consuming him politically. He insisted he would not remain in any party that compromises integrity, declaring: “You cannot use the process of yesterday to build tomorrow.”

    Pressed on whether he would leave ADC if corruption emerged, Obi said he would not hesitate, stressing: “I am in ADC with the same people, some of whom I left PDP and other parties, but we are going through the same process. If that process is again compromised, I will speak out.”  He added, “If I have to move, I don’t have a long time in politics. But if I have a long time, I will do it twenty times. I cannot be talking about something new while being part of the process. You cannot use the process of yesterday to build tomorrow.” 

    The former Labour Party candidate said he has never been involved in rigged primaries or bribing the judiciary. “I’ve never been involved in any form of rigged election at the primary level or at the election itself.  I have never been part of paying people in the judiciary anywhere to give me judgment.” 

    He added that he had no dealings with the former INEC chairman, noting, “I expected him, as referee, to do his job. But I cannot be preaching change and doing it wrongly,” he punctuated.

  • Museveni vows crackdown as corruption persists in Uganda’s public service

    Museveni vows crackdown as corruption persists in Uganda’s public service

    KAMPALA, Uganda — 13 April 2026 (NPA) — Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni has declared that his administration will not tolerate corruption, pledging decisive action against officials found guilty of graft.

    Speaking after an evening session at a leadership retreat in Kyankwanzi, Museveni criticised leaders and members of parliament, urging them to reject bribery and uphold integrity in public service.

    The president also acknowledged the contributions of government partners, including Rt. Hon. Hassan Omar of Kenya’s United Democratic Alliance, who stressed the importance of overcoming fragmented markets and policies to advance Africa’s prosperity.

    “Retreats like these are important for renewing commitment to our mission of national transformation. I congratulate the MPs on the successful retreat,” Museveni said.

    Despite repeated pledges, corruption continues to undermine Uganda’s governance and service delivery. In April 2026, the Inspectorate of Government announced the recovery of 335 million shillings from 62 public officials who had misappropriated funds, part of a wider crackdown on irregular use of government resources. The IGG also ordered officials in Jinja City to refund 33 million shillings after investigations revealed breaches of accountability. These recoveries highlight both the persistence of graft and the government’s intensified enforcement efforts to safeguard public resources and restore trust in state institutions.

  • South West Nigeria charts unified path for urban development

    South West Nigeria charts unified path for urban development

    LAGOS, Nigeria — 13 April 2026 (NPA) — The Lagos State Government has hosted the inaugural meeting of South West Commissioners for Physical Planning and Urban Development, signalling a new era of regional cooperation in tackling urbanisation challenges.

    The one-day meeting, held at the Protea Select Hotel in Alausa, Ikeja, brought together Commissioners from Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ekiti and Ondo States, alongside representatives of the DAWN Commission, the South West Development Commission, senior government officials, urban planners and development experts.

    With the theme “Forging Regional Integration Through Coordinated Physical Planning, Urban Development, and Sustainable Land Governance”, the gathering aimed to strengthen interstate collaboration as a foundation for sustainable growth.

    Dr Oluyinka Olumide, Lagos Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, emphasised that the South West faces rapid urban expansion, infrastructure deficits and housing shortages. He stressed the need for coordinated planning across state borders, highlighting priorities such as shared waste management, regional transport networks and cross-border land use.

    Participants commended Lagos State and Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for championing the initiative. Permanent Secretary Engr. Oluwole Sotire linked the meeting to resolutions from the maiden Lagos Physical Planning Summit and announced that the second edition will take place in June, with invitations extended to regional stakeholders.

    At the close of deliberations, delegates adopted key resolutions, including:

    • Pursuing regional integration as a central strategy for sustainable development.
    • Strengthening institutional frameworks to harmonise physical planning and land governance.
    • Developing a comprehensive Western Region Master Plan to align infrastructure projects across states.
    • Considering the establishment of a South West Regional Planning and Development Coordination Authority.
    • Prioritising strategic transport corridors, coastal roads and inter-state connectivity as drivers of growth.

    The meeting underscored a shared commitment to building a unified framework for urban development, positioning the South West as an interconnected physical and economic region prepared to meet the demands of the future.

  • Peter Obi consoles victims of accidental military airstrike, urges investment in modern defence tools and training

    Peter Obi consoles victims of accidental military airstrike, urges investment in modern defence tools and training

    ABUJA, Nigeria — 13 April 2026  (NPA) — Mr Peter Obi, a presidential aspirant and chieftain of Nigeria’s major opposition party, African Democratic Congress (ADC), has commiserated with the families and victims of the accidental Nigerian military airstrike that claimed the lives of dozens of citizens. He attributed the tragedy to a mix of operational constraints, coordination challenges, and outdated equipment, amongst others.

    In a statement titled “Borno–Yobe Border Airstrike: A Wake-Up Call for Nigeria’s Defence Strategy”, Obi said he had read accounts of the incident at Jilli Market, located in the Borno–Yobe border area, which reportedly resulted in the deaths of many innocent Nigerians. He extended condolences to the families of the victims, as well as to the governments and people of the affected states, praying for eternal rest for the departed and comfort for those grieving.

    Obi noted that while the full details of the incident remain unclear, such tragedies often stem from systemic issues within Nigeria’s defence operations. He stressed the urgent need for investment in modern fighter jets, upgrades to existing platforms, and continuous training and retraining of military personnel.

    “In the midst of the challenges facing the country, we must continue to stand in solidarity with our military personnel who risk their lives daily to keep Nigeria safe, while also insisting that they are properly equipped and fully supported to discharge their duties effectively and prevent avoidable tragedies of this nature,” he said.

    Concluding his statement, Obi urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to rise to the challenge of national security, calling for decisive leadership, stronger coordination of Nigeria’s security architecture, and sustained investment in modern defence capacity to address worsening insecurity and prevent further loss of innocent lives.

  • Governor Bala Mohammed distributes vehicles to bauchi traditional rulers

    Governor Bala Mohammed distributes vehicles to bauchi traditional rulers

    BAUCHI, Nigeria —13 April 2026 (NPA) — The Governor of Bauchi State, Senator Bala Mohammed, has presented official vehicles to emirs and district heads across the state in a move aimed at strengthening grassroots governance and enhancing community engagement.

    At a ceremony held at Government House, the governor handed over vehicles to fourteen newly appointed emirs and more than one hundred district heads. He explained that the initiative was designed to improve mobility, extend their reach, and enable traditional leaders to discharge their responsibilities more effectively within their domains.

    This distribution included fourteen GMC saloon cars, Toyota buses, Hilux vehicles, and over a hundred Toyota Camry cars allocated to district heads.

    “I remain committed to extending this support across both long-established and newly created emirates, chiefdoms, and districts, ensuring that governance in Bauchi State remains inclusive and aligned with our broader development agenda,” Senator Mohammed stated.

    He further emphasised the importance of close collaboration with traditional institutions in fostering peace, stability, and prosperity, urging rulers to remain non-partisan, uphold integrity, and remain dedicated to their duties.

    The Honourable Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Isa Babayo Tilde, reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to working closely with traditional institutions, recognising their crucial role in maintaining peace and mobilising communities.

    In response, the Emir of Bauchi, Alhaji Rilwanu Suleiman Adamu, expressed gratitude on behalf of the traditional rulers and assured that the vehicles would be used responsibly and for the benefit of the people.

  • Free medical mission begins across all Imo State zones

    Free medical mission begins across all Imo State zones

    OWERRI, Nigeria —13 April 2026 (NPA) — The Imo State Government, in partnership with the Association of Nigerian Physicians in the Americas (ANPA), has launched a week-long Free Medical Mission across the state’s three geopolitical zones. The initiative, which began on Sunday, April 12, is offering a wide range of medical, surgical, and eye care services at designated healthcare facilities.

    Governor Hope Uzodimma, in a statement, encouraged residents to take full advantage of the programme, noting that it goes beyond immediate treatment to strengthen the state’s health system. “This mission focuses on building capacity through targeted training programmes, including sickle cell disease management and other critical life-saving competencies for healthcare workers,” he said.

    Locations

    Services are being provided at:

    • Owerri Zone: Imo State Specialist Hospital, Umuguma
    • Orlu Zone: Imo State University Teaching Hospital, Orlu; Michael Uzodimma General Hospital, Omuma
    • Okigwe Zone: Mbano Joint Hospital, Okigwe

    Programme Schedule

    • Monday, April 13: “Stop the Bleed” (Train-the-Trainer), sickle cell disease training, and medical outreach.
    • Tuesday, April 14: Essential Newborn Care (Helping Babies Survive), Basic Life Support/CPR, alongside ongoing services.
    • Wednesday, April 15: Continued newborn care training and outreach across all zones.
    • Thursday, April 16: “Stop the Bleed” training, CPR sessions in Owerri, Wellness and Happiness workshop, plus medical missions.
    • Friday, April 17: Half-day medical mission, cultural exchange activities, and closing ceremony. Departure of participants is scheduled for Saturday, April 18.

    Impact

    The mission is expected to provide thousands of residents with free consultations and treatment while equipping healthcare workers with vital skills. Officials say the collaboration underscores Imo State’s commitment to improving healthcare outcomes, reducing preventable complications, and promoting a healthier population through sustainable partnerships.

  • Ebonyi Governor Nwifuru mourns passing of Bishop Peter Nworie Chukwu

    Ebonyi Governor Nwifuru mourns passing of Bishop Peter Nworie Chukwu

    ABAKALIKI, Nigeria, 13 April 2026 (NPA) — The Governor of Ebonyi State, Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Most Rev. Dr. Peter Nworie Chukwu, the 3rd Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Abakaliki.

    In a statement on Sunday, Governor Nwifuru described Bishop Chukwu as a “spiritual colossus” whose life embodied humility, sacrifice, and devotion to God and humanity. He said the Bishop’s passing marks the end of an era of profound spiritual guidance and fatherly leadership in Ebonyi State and beyond.

    Born in Ededeagu Umuezeokoha, Ezza North LGA, Nwifuru praised Bishop Chukwu as an icon of faith, a promoter of peace, and a tireless advocate for justice, unity, and love. Through his pastoral mission, he touched countless lives, strengthened families, and nurtured the spiritual growth of the people.

    Quoting 2 Timothy 4:7, the Governor noted that Bishop Chukwu “fought a good fight, finished his course, and kept the faith,” adding that his life was a testimony of grace and service.

    On behalf of the government and people of Ebonyi State, Nwifuru extended condolences to the Supreme Pontiff, the Catholic Diocese of Abakaliki, the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria, the clergy, religious, lay faithful, and the Bishop’s family.

    He emphasized that Bishop Chukwu’s passing is not only a loss to the Church but to the entire state and nation. The Governor prayed for God’s mercy to grant the Bishop eternal rest and for fortitude to all who mourn him.

    “Adieu, faithful servant of God. Rest in the bosom of the Lord,” the statement concluded.

  • ADC Convention faces venue uncertainty ahead of Abuja gathering tomorrow

    ADC Convention faces venue uncertainty ahead of Abuja gathering tomorrow

    ABUJA, Nigeria, 13 April 2026 (NPA) — Former National Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and African Democratic Congress (ADC) chieftain Kola Ologbondiyan has raised concerns that, just 24 hours to the ADC National Convention scheduled for Abuja, the party has yet to secure a venue.

    Ologbondiyan, who serves as Media Adviser to the embattled ADC National Chairman, Senator David Mark, said the party had formally requested approval from the Office of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Chief Nyesom Wike, to use Eagle Square. While the letter was acknowledged, no response has been issued.

    He added that repeated visits to the Ministry of Sports to secure the MKO Abiola Stadium Velodrome also proved unsuccessful, with the party denied access. To compound matters, privately owned event centers in Abuja have reportedly declined ADC’s requests, citing fears of government harassment.

    Despite these setbacks, Ologbondiyan assured party members, supporters, and Nigerians that the convention will proceed as scheduled on Tuesday, 14 April 2026, in line with the notice already issued to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

    “As contained in the notice to INEC, the ADC National Convention will hold in Abuja as scheduled,” he said.

    As of press time, no venue has been confirmed. However, analysts note that in politics, 24 hours can be a long time, leaving room for last-minute developments.