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Category: Politics

  • ADC youth wing issues 3-day ultimatum to INEC to restore Senator David Mark, others to portal

    ADC youth wing issues 3-day ultimatum to INEC to restore Senator David Mark, others to portal

    ABUJA, NIGERIA, April 6, 2026 (NPA) — The youth wing of Nigeria’s opposition party, African Democratic Congress (ADC), has given the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) a three-day ultimatum to restore democracy or face nationwide civic action, following the delisting of the Senator David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola-led ADC leadership from its portal last on April 1, 2026, citing a Court ruling. 

    At a press conference in Abuja, Balarabe Rufai, ADC National Youth Leader, declared Nigeria is under democratic siege. He said what should have been 27 years of uninterrupted civil rule is now being undermined by institutions meant to protect it.

    “This is not a warning, this is a crisis,” Rufai said, quoting Mallam Aminu Kano’s warning that democratic humanism can only be built on the ruins of a corrupt system.

    The ADC recalled that on July 29, 2025, it held a lawful NEC meeting under INEC supervision, dissolving the previous National Working Committee and producing new leadership led by Senator David Mark. INEC verified and uploaded this leadership on September 9, 2025, with no dispute or objection.

    Months later, individuals who had resigned resurfaced to challenge the process. While the matter remains in court, the Court of Appeal ordered a return to the last uncontested position — the David Mark-led leadership. The ADC accused INEC of ignoring facts, misinterpreting court orders, and acting beyond its constitutional authority.

    The youth wing urged the National Assembly to investigate and, if necessary, remove the INEC Chairman, stressing that democracy must be defended with action. It also called on the Judiciary to clarify its orders and protect the integrity of Nigeria’s legal system.

    The group emphasized that the military must remain neutral, warning against force in civic matters. To Nigeria’s youth, it declared: “This is about our future, our voice, our democracy. Together, let’s defend it or lose everything it represents.”

    The ADC insisted that the July 29, 2025 leadership under Senator David Mark remains the only legitimate leadership and demanded INEC restore it immediately and apologize to Nigerians.

  • Prof. Pat Utomi warns INEC against politicisation, calls out NBA silence

    Prof. Pat Utomi warns INEC against politicisation, calls out NBA silence

    ABUJA, April 6, 2026 (NPA) — Professor Pat Utomi, Nigerian scholar, political economist, and public intellectual, has cautioned the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) against becoming a tool in the hands of politicians bent on undermining national institutions.

    In a series of posts on his X account today, Utomi criticized those who remain silent in the face of injustice, including religious leaders, senior lawyers, and traditional rulers. He warned: “Those who see truth and cloak themselves in silence will someday dance naked in the marketplace. Speak now and redeem yourselves, or forever live with the shame.”

    Utomi particularly called out the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) for its silence regarding recent administrative actions taken by INEC Chairman, Professor Amupitan. He argued that if the NBA fails to act, Nigeria risks a “free fall” in institutional and moral safeguards. “History will hold all lawyers and Amupitan accountable in a way that will embarrass the children of their children,” he wrote.

    He further condemned Amupitan’s alleged embrace of Stalin’s infamous dictum that “those who vote decide nothing, those who count the vote decide everything,” describing it as a betrayal of democratic principles. “We thought Amupitan was an intellectual and lawyer. Instead, INEC seems bent on proving Stalin right,” Utomi added.

    In a strongly worded appeal, Utomi urged that the “stone of love of money” which drives some lawyers and judges to compromise electoral justice be rolled away, alongside the “stone of desperation for power” that leads politicians to abuse institutions without regard for long-term damage.

    Utomi’s intervention highlights growing concerns over electoral integrity and the role of Nigeria’s legal and political elite in safeguarding democracy.

  • Easter celebration: Uzodimma declares prosperity agenda for Imo State

    Easter celebration: Uzodimma declares prosperity agenda for Imo State

    IMO, NIGERIA, April 6, 2026 (NPA) — Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to building a collective prosperity that guarantees citizens’ dignity, opportunity, and inclusive growth.

    Speaking on Easter Sunday after Holy Mass at his home parish, St. Rose of Lima Catholic Parish, Ozuh, Omuma, in Oru East LGA, Uzodimma urged Imo people to embrace the virtues of love, peace, and unity, which he described as the essence of Christ’s passion and resurrection. He stressed that these values create the right environment for economic reforms, infrastructure development, and a secure society.

    “Global economic uncertainties have created hardship; however, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is confronting these challenges head-on, recording visible progress in growth and stability,” Uzodimma said.

    Now in his second and final term, the governor emphasized that his administration remains focused on addressing critical areas, driving development across sectors, and ensuring that the gospel of shared prosperity reaches every household in the state. He appealed for continued public support to sustain the transformation journey.

    Uzodimma highlighted that his government’s policies are designed to promote opportunity, stability, and inclusive growth, while reinforcing the state’s resilience against economic shocks. He noted that Easter’s message of renewal aligns with Imo’s vision of progress and prosperity.

    By linking spiritual values with governance, Uzodimma positioned his Easter message as both a moral call and a political declaration, underscoring his resolve to leave a legacy of prosperity and unity in Imo State.

  • Botswana’s President Boko embarks on working visit to France and Spain

    Botswana’s President Boko embarks on working visit to France and Spain

    GABORONE, BOTSWANA, April 6, 2026 (NPA) — President Duma Gideon Boko of Botswana will undertake a Working Visit to France and Spain from April 6 to 11, 2026.

    In France, President Boko will participate in the One Health Summit on April 7, coinciding with World Health Day. Hosted by the French Government under the G7 Presidency, the Summit will bring together Heads of State, international organisations, scientists, private sector leaders, youth, and civil society to deliberate on human, animal, plant, and ecosystem health, and explore coordinated approaches to shared global health threats.

    According to a government statement, President Boko will join a High-Level Panel under the theme “Governance, Science and Finance.” His intervention will highlight Botswana’s One Health policy framework and its role in promoting health security, economic resilience, and sustainable development. He will also hold bilateral talks with French President Emmanuel Macron and engage business leaders on trade and investment opportunities in Botswana.

    The visit will continue in Spain on April 9, where President Boko will advance Botswana’s economic diplomacy agenda, supporting national revitalisation and diversification efforts. He will also hold bilateral talks with Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez Pérez-Castejón to strengthen cooperation between the two nations.

    President Boko will be accompanied by Minister of International Relations Dr. Phenyo Butale, Minister of Health Dr. Stephen Modise, Acting Minister of Lands and Agriculture Dr. Edwin Dikoloti, and senior government officials.

    The delegation is expected to return to Gaborone on April 11, 2026.

  • 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.