New Post Africa

Category: Politics

  • 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.

  • Lagos Government begins compensation for Blue Line rail landlords

    Lagos Government begins compensation for Blue Line rail landlords

    LAGOS, NIGERIA, 01 April 2026 (NPA) — The Lagos State Government, through the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA), has reached a new milestone in its commitment to residents affected by the Blue Line Rail extension project.

    After completing compensation payments to tenants, the Authority has now commenced disbursement to landlords. This next phase highlights the government’s resolve to ensure fair, transparent, and timely compensation for all stakeholders impacted by the project.

    The process officially began today with the presentation of cheques to landlords who had completed documentation and verification for the Blue Line Depot land acquisition. Duly enumerated property owners received payments as part of the coordinated exercise.

    The compensation programme is being overseen by Dr Babatunde Osho, Managing Director of Global Impact Environmental Consulting, working closely with LAMATA officials.

    This initiative is a critical component of the wider Blue Line Rail project, which is progressing toward completion in the first quarter of 2027. By prioritising equitable compensation and inclusive transition processes, LAMATA reinforces its commitment to the social well‑being of Lagosians while advancing a modern, integrated urban transport system.

  • South Africa slashes fuel levy to ease price rise on citizens

    South Africa slashes fuel levy to ease price rise on citizens

    AFRICA, 01 April 2026 (NPA) — In a decisive move to shield South Africans from surging global energy costs, the National Treasury and the Department of Petroleum and Mineral Resources (DMPR) have announced a temporary R3 cut to the general fuel levy.

    Effective immediately, the levy on petrol drops from R4.10 to R1.10 per litre, while diesel falls from R3.93 to R0.93. Officials say the measure will provide motorists with urgent relief while safeguarding the stability of the country’s fuel supply system.

    The Finance Minister emphasised that the decision balances consumer welfare, particularly food and transport inflation, with fiscal objectives. The one‑month reduction is expected to cost R6 billion in foregone revenue and will be reviewed monthly for the next two months.

    Without the cut, April’s fuel price hikes would have been steeper: petrol up R3.06 per litre, diesel rising more than R7, and paraffin climbing by over R11 wholesale. The DMPR stressed that paraffin pricing excludes levies and taxes, a deliberate policy to protect low‑income households.

    Authorities assured the public that national fuel stocks remain sufficient, with reported shortages linked to localised panic buying and logistical bottlenecks. Citizens are urged to avoid unnecessary stockpiling and purchase responsibly to prevent further strain on distribution networks.

    The government reiterated its commitment to protecting vulnerable households, promising further targeted measures to cushion the poor from high energy costs. Officials added that work is underway on a broader package of interventions to support households and key sectors of the economy, with details to be announced soon.

  • Tinubu cancels Ogun trip and others, heads to Jos after deadly attacks

    Tinubu cancels Ogun trip and others, heads to Jos after deadly attacks

    ABUJA, NIGERIA, 01 April 2026 (NPA) — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has abruptly postponed his scheduled trip to Iperu, Ogun State, where he was due to flag off operations at the Gateway International Cargo Airport. Instead, he will travel to Jos, Plateau State, to commiserate with the government and people following recent gun attacks that claimed innocent lives.

    According to a statement signed by Presidential Adviser Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu will proceed from Plateau to Lagos to observe Good Friday. On Saturday, 4 April, he will head to Ogun State for the commissioning of the Cargo Airport and the inauguration of two commercial aircraft to boost economic growth.

    The President is also expected to unveil the new Federal Operations Unit building of the Nigerian Customs Service and its operational vehicles.

    Back in Lagos, Tinubu will commission several infrastructure projects by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration, including the Ojota/Opebi Link Bridge, the Lagos State Geographic Information System Building, a Multi-Agency Complex named after him, and a school complex.

    Before returning to Abuja, Tinubu will visit Bayelsa State on 10 April to commission projects completed by Governor Duoye Diri.

  • APC resumes nationwide electronic membership registration

    APC resumes nationwide electronic membership registration

    ABUJA, NIGERIA, 01 April 2026 (NPA) — The All Progressives Congress (APC) has announced the resumption of its electronic membership registration exercise across all wards and designated centres nationwide.

    In a statement, on Wednesday, signed by Felix Morka, CON, National Publicity Secretary, the Party urged existing members to validate their membership and encouraged new members to register. Registrants must be at least 18 years old and possess a valid National Identification Number (NIN).

    The APC explained that the e-registration initiative is aimed at digitising its membership register, safeguarding record integrity, improving access to data for planning and management, promoting internal democracy, and strengthening its commitment to democratic innovation in Nigeria.

  • Kemi Badenoch issues stark Passover warning to UK Jews: “This year is different”

    Kemi Badenoch issues stark Passover warning to UK Jews: “This year is different”

    INTERNATIONAL, 01 April 2026 (NPA) — Kemi Badenoch, Leader of the Conservative Party, has extended a goodwill message to British Jews for Passover, but with a sombre warning that this year is unlike any other.

    In her statement on Wednesday, Badenoch noted that recent events — Jews murdered in a UK synagogue, Hatzola ambulances torched in Golders Green, and growing fears about safety — mark a disturbing shift. “This year I can’t write the usual sort of Passover message,” she said, rejecting platitudes in favour of a call to vigilance.

    Reflecting on the meaning of Passover, Badenoch emphasised that freedom is not guaranteed but must be defended in every generation. She warned that antisemitism has eroded basic freedoms, from walking openly in London to worshipping without heavy security.

    The Conservative leader pledged stronger action under her leadership, including banning extremist marches, revoking visas for hate preachers, and adopting a zero-tolerance approach to radicalisation. She insisted that antisemitism is not just prejudice but “Jew hatred” — an existential threat to Jewish life in Britain.

    Badenoch urged British Jews to resist intimidation with visibility and defiance, stressing that Israel cannot be the only sanctuary. “This is your home,” she declared, promising to lead from the front in tackling sectarian hate and defending Jewish rights.

    Her message concluded with a reminder that Passover teaches resilience: “Freedom must be defended, generation after generation. We can and will defeat the scourge of antisemitism.”