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Why US withdrew troops from Nigeria – Military spokesman, Uba

2026-09-03T09:54:39.845+01:00

The Nigerian military has explained the reason behind the withdrawal of United States troops from Nigeria.

Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba stated that the deployment of 200 United States soldiers to Nigeria was tied to operational and counterterrorism operations.

Uba explained that the decision to draw down the personnel is part of the evolving nature of the engagement.

According to him, elements of the United States security partnership, especially intelligence cooperation, training and information sharing, will continue.

Recall that in early 2026, the United States deployed 200 troops to Nigeria for a limited counterterrorism mission, and the planned withdrawal will see the main body leave by late September, while a smaller advisory and intelligence team will remain behind.

The United States was set to withdraw about 200 American troops from Nigeria.

Reacting to the development, Uba said the Nigerian military has been consistent in maintaining responsibility for the defence of Nigeria, stressing that the protection of Nigerian citizens rests primarily with the country’s security forces.

He pointed out that the cooperation between the Nigerian Armed Forces and the United States is aimed at boosting their capabilities through intelligence sharing, training and other areas.

The defence spokesman further asserted that the Nigeria-United States partnership has resulted in a robust fight against terrorism and other transnational security threats.

“The decision to withdraw the 200 troops from Nigeria is part of the evolving nature of that engagement,” he said.

Police arrest two suspected child traffickers, rescue four-year-old girl in Abuja

2026-09-03T09:54:30.307+01:00

The Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Police Command has arrested two suspected child traffickers and rescued a four-year-old girl in Kuje.

The suspects, identified as Rose Daniel and Blessing John, were apprehended on August 27, 2026, while allegedly attempting to flee with the child, Ummi Mariam Abdullah.

The Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, disclosed this in a statement, saying the arrests followed information provided by a vigilant resident who witnessed the incident and promptly alerted the police.

Adeh said police operatives responded to the report, arrived at the location, rescued the child and took both suspects into custody.

She said preliminary investigations revealed that Daniel and John had previously been arrested in December 2025 and prosecuted over a similar offence.

According to her, the suspects were convicted but later released on bail after spending approximately five months in prison.

“Further investigation showed that since their release, the suspects had abducted and trafficked four children to different parts of the country.

“In the most recent case, two children were allegedly taken to an accomplice in Port Harcourt identified only as ‘Madam Ijeoma,’ who reportedly bought each child for N1.5 million.”

The police spokesperson said the rescued girl had been reunited with her family, while the suspects remained in custody pending the completion of investigations.

“The suspects remain in police custody and will be charged to court at the conclusion of investigations,” the statement added.

The FCT Police Command advised parents and guardians to remain vigilant and pay close attention to the safety and whereabouts of their children.

The Command also urged residents to promptly report suspicious individuals or activities to the nearest police station or through its emergency lines: 08032003913, 08028940883; Complaint Response Unit: 08107314192; and PPRO FCT: 07038979348.

Reps Explain Why Gbajabiamila Was Not Questioned in PFIPC Probe

2026-09-03T09:06:43.096+01:00

The House of Representatives has clarified why Chief of Staff to President Bola Tinubu, Femi Gbajabiamila, was not interrogated during its investigation into the controversial Presidential Foreign Investment Promotion Council (PFIPC).

Chairman of the ad hoc committee, Yusuf Gagdi, said the probe was focused on establishing how the alleged agency came into existence and whether it had any legal foundation, rather than targeting individuals mentioned in related documents.

Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Gagdi stressed that the committee’s mandate was to determine who created the PFIPC and under what authority.

He added that the investigation was not designed to center on Gbajabiamila, contrary to public perception.

The committee, which invited institutions and members of the public to submit memoranda, later exonerated Gbajabiamila in its findings presented in Abuja.

The probe followed allegations by Adeniyi Adeyemi, who claimed Gbajabiamila received ₦400 million through proxies linked to appointments in the PFIPC.

Gbajabiamila denied the accusations and has filed a ₦15 billion defamation suit against Adeyemi.Gagdi emphasized that the House gave the committee a broad mandate to examine the legality of the PFIPC, insisting that the investigation was about the agency’s operations, not Gbajabiamila personally.

Trump Proposes Renaming Strait of Hormuz After Himself Amid Escalating Iran Tensions

2026-09-03T09:03:29.064+01:00

U.S. President Donald Trump has suggested renaming the Strait of Hormuz in his honor, declaring the strategic waterway “under American control” as clashes with Iran intensify.

Trump floated the idea in a social media post on Wednesday, writing: “Now that we have it under USA control, should we change the name Hormuz Strait to TRUMP STRAIT? Like America itself, it would be ‘hotter’ than ever before!”

The remark came after U.S. strikes on Iranian targets, including one Tehran claimed hit a residential building hosting a wedding in Kuhestak, Sirik County, killing at least four people.

Iran responded with missile and drone attacks on U.S.-linked sites across the region, further raising fears over the security of the waterway.

The Strait of Hormuz, a vital global oil-shipping route, has become the focal point of the conflict.

Washington insists it is working to keep commercial navigation open, while Tehran maintains control of the strait. Shipping traffic has already dropped below pre-war levels, pushing oil prices higher.

Saudi Arabia accused Iran of attacking an oil tanker in the region, killing two sailors, while the UK Maritime Trade Operations agency reported continued incidents involving vessels near the strait.

The escalating hostilities have heightened international concern over energy supplies and the stability of one of the world’s most critical maritime chokepoints.

City Boy Movement Appoints Isaac Balami as Executive Board Member

2026-09-03T08:58:48.337+01:00

The City Boy Movement has announced the appointment of aviation entrepreneur and political mobiliser Isaac Balami as an executive board member and National Director on Special Duty.

Balami, who recently left the Obidient Movement, has been actively rallying support groups and political associates toward the All Progressives Congress (APC), signaling a broader realignment ahead of the 2027 general elections.

His appointment was formally presented by the Director-General of the City Boy Movement, Hon. Francis Oluwatosin Shoga, and National Secretary Hon. Tosin Odufuwa, alongside other board members.

The development was also confirmed by Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The executive board, the highest decision-making body of the movement, oversees strategy and activities.

Balami’s inclusion is seen as significant due to his influence among youth and grassroots political groups, particularly in Northern Nigeria and the Middle Belt.

Supporters also note that he is the first Christian from Northern Nigeria to serve on the board, a move they believe strengthens ethnic and religious representation.

Balami, who previously served as Deputy Campaign Manager for the Obi/Datti campaign in 2023, has in recent years combined his aviation career with youth mobilisation and political advocacy.

His new role is expected to place him at the center of the City Boy Movement’s efforts to expand its reach and bolster Tinubu’s 2027 campaign.

The movement also appointed Ahmad Abdulaziz Yari, son of former Zamfara governor and current Director-General of Tinubu’s 2027 Presidential Campaign Council, to its board.

These appointments are expected to reinforce the organisation’s structure and broaden its influence among young Nigerians ahead of the elections.

How I Made 10M Monthly From Akara Businness - Gov. Ume Eno

2026-09-03T08:51:48.667+01:00

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, has disclosed that before venturing into politics, he made not less than ₦10 million monthly from his akara and bread business.

Speaking during the state’s monthly covenant prayer service on Tuesday, Eno recounted how he began by selling akara and bread, packaged as “Akara Burger,” before expanding into a coffee shop. He noted that workers heading to ExxonMobil were among his regular customers.

“We still have that shop there. I started selling Akara and bread. Back then, I was doing Akara Burger. Every month, that Akara business used to give me nothing less than ₦10 million,” he said.

The governor explained that the experience taught him valuable lessons about entrepreneurship and the importance of starting small.

His revelation comes months after First Lady Oluremi Tinubu encouraged Nigerians to explore small-scale businesses such as akara and kuli-kuli to improve their livelihoods. While her comments drew criticism, she later clarified that the initiative also supported petty traders across various sectors, announcing a ₦100 million intervention for 2,000 traders in Jigawa State.

President Bola Tinubu even joined the conversation, jokingly referring to his wife as “Iya Alakara” during a press dinner.

Eno’s account has now reignited discussions on the potential of small-scale enterprises as a pathway to sustainable income and economic empowerment in Nigeria.

VIDEO: Zamfara APC Rally Turns Awkward as Crowd Chants Atiku Instead of Tinubu

2026-09-03T08:46:46.896+01:00

A solidarity walk in Gusau, Zamfara State, meant to show support for President Bola Tinubu’s 2027 re-election bid, took an unexpected turn when sections of the crowd chanted opposition leader Atiku Abubakar’s name instead of Tinubu’s.

In a video from the event, participants were heard shouting “Sai Atiku” during the rally organized to celebrate Tinubu’s appointment of former Zamfara governor Abdul’aziz Yari as Director-General of his Presidential Campaign Council.

The walk was coordinated by the A.A. Yari Political Organisation, the Shehu Movement Organisation, and the Yari 774 Initiative for Asiwaju 2027.

Organizers described Yari’s appointment as a strategic move to strengthen the APC ahead of the polls.

Speaking at the rally, Zamfara APC Chairman Kabiru Moyi Birnin Magaji assured that Tinubu would secure overwhelming support from the state in the 2027 elections.

President Tinubu recently unveiled his campaign council, with Yari named as its Director-General, signaling the party’s preparations for the forthcoming general elections.

Watch video below:

! pic.twitter.com/QcFJyALm5o
— Abubakar Yunusa (@Pharmacio001) September 2, 2026

Osun APC Warns Police of Alleged PDP Plot to Seize LG Secretariats

2026-09-03T08:41:19.034+01:00

The Osun State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has raised alarm over what it described as a planned invasion of local government council secretariats by purported Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) executives.

In a statement signed by its Director of Media and Information, Kola Olabisi, the APC alleged that PDP chairmen and councillors were preparing to take over all 30 council secretariats and the Area Office with the backing of political thugs recruited within and outside the state.

The party claimed the re-election of Governor Ademola Adeleke had emboldened the PDP faction, accusing them of working in collaboration with officials of the Nigerian Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE).

It further cited a Supreme Court ruling that described the PDP council executives as “persons unknown to the law.”

The APC urged the Osun State Police Command, Department of State Services (DSS), and Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) to act swiftly to prevent any disruption of public peace.

The statement also recalled the killing of APC council chairman Remi Abass of Irewole Local Government, allegedly by suspected PDP thugs now facing trial in Abuja.

The party emphasized that the dispute over council tenure remains before the Court of Appeal in Akure and insisted that any action outside the legal process would amount to “monumental illegality.”

As of press time, the Osun PDP and the state government had not responded to the allegations.

Trump Appoints Atiku’s Lobbyist as White House Commissioner

2026-09-03T08:37:08.466+01:00

United States President Donald Trump has appointed Dr. Karl Von Batten, managing partner of Washington-based lobbying firm Von Batten-Montague-York, L.C., as a commissioner on a White House presidential commission.

The firm announced the appointment in a statement on X, praising the decision as a “tremendous honor” and highlighting Von Batten’s “longstanding commitment to public service and leadership.”

Dr. Von Batten expressed gratitude to President Trump for the confidence placed in him, pledging to “answer the call to serve our President and country.”

This appointment comes months after Nigerian opposition leader Atiku Abubakar, presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), hired Von Batten’s firm on a 12‑month retainer valued at $1.2 million to represent his interests in Washington.

The announcement has drawn attention given Von Batten’s dual role as both Atiku’s lobbyist and now a U.S. presidential commissioner, underscoring the intersection of American politics and Nigerian political strategy.

Your emphasis on Tinubu’s past records now ludicrous – Presidential aide hits Peter Obi

2026-09-02T19:04:12.155+01:00

President Bola Tinubu’s Senior Special Assistant on Public Engagement, Frederick Nwabufo, has said although the president’s past records may not be perfect, the persistent emphasis on the issue has become unreasonable.

Nwabufo was reacting to the Nigerian Democratic Congress, NDC, presidential candidate, Peter Obi’s recent remarks on an ongoing legal battle in a United States, US, District Court over Tinubu’s alleged involvement in drug trafficking.

Posting on X, Obi wrote: “An imperfect past is part of the human condition. When will our political class fully appreciate that individual ambitions are temporary, while the nation endures?”

Reacting, Nwabufo described Obi’s claims as “ludicrous.”

In a statement he signed, Nwabufo said: “Mr Obi @PeterObi, it is important that disciplined conversations guide the campaigns and that ideas remain the thrust of engagement.

“In response to your ludicrous claims, there is no so-called “imperfect past.” The issues have been routinely investigated and found to be patently false, libelous and have even been determined by the highest court of the land.

“This refrain is a tired and expired one, regurgitated every election cycle from the bowels of a failing and failed opposition who have nothing to campaign with but slander and slurs.”

‘He may promise to reopen Strait of Hormuz’ — Atiku taunted on X over his campaign promises

2026-09-02T18:23:21.548+01:00

Some Nigerians on X, the microblogging platform formerly known as Twitter, have continued to taunt Atiku Abubakar, presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), over his campaign promises for the 2027 elections.

Recently, the former vice-president began disclosing some of the policies he plans to implement or reverse if elected president in 2027.

On August 19, the former vice-president said he will restore petrol subsidy if elected president. Atiku said the government has failed to account for the funds saved from the removal of petrol subsidy.

The proposal elicited varied reactions as members and officials of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), including President Bola Tinubu, criticised the former vice-president.

Atiku had also promised that he would reopen Nigeria’s land borders and develop southern ports to boost trade.

On September 1, the former vice-president said he will reduce the underlying cost of education and provide forgiveness for qualifying student debts.

Taking a swipe at Atiku, some Nigerians on X said the former vice-president might promise to reopen the Strait of Hormuz in Iran, return Nigeria to the era of university lecturers’ strikes, among other sarcastic remarks.

SEE REACTIONS:

I will give every barren women one baby each - Atiku Abubakar pic.twitter.com/pgb3D7bMgD
— Senior Pst Okezie James Atañi. (@Onsogbu) September 2, 2026

Atiku thinking of how to bring back ASUU strike to appease labour union pic.twitter.com/4MBY1uZuEg
— Oluwatigbemiga Asiwaju Mourinho Fidelix (@Rouphages) September 1, 2026

Atiku planning on another lies to win presidency!!! https://t.co/tHyu15dgbd pic.twitter.com/GAHpb9T5Rg
— President Otunba GCFRN 🇳🇬 (@de_generalnoni) September 1, 2026

Atiku in deep thought on How to Campaign with MASS WEDDING In the South 😂😂😂😂😂 pic.twitter.com/1PWy4A0IHu
— G. S. Babatunde🌕 (@gsbabatunde) September 2, 2026

Atiku @atiku thinking whether to promise to release Nnamdi Kanu.

I predict pic.twitter.com/AzYkOcQ1Yh
— Dougie I 💙 (@ibekemed) August 31, 2026

I will set aside $10Billion dollars for mass wedding if elected. pic.twitter.com/6bF2vKzI8Y
— Dr. HM Okpanachi🇳🇬(MBBS) (@Dr_statesman) September 1, 2026

“I will buy every Nigerians GWAGON”

-Atiku pic.twitter.com/fTzUsHFdNj
— SALAWU||OMOIYAONIPAKO (@salawueedris1) September 2, 2026

I will open eyes of the blind if I become President ___

Atiku pic.twitter.com/LqPu8eHPob
— President Otunba GCFRN 🇳🇬 (@de_generalnoni) September 2, 2026

Reps panel clears Gbaja, links 12 agencies, 58 bank accounts to PFIPC DG

2026-09-02T18:23:09.432+01:00

The House of Representatives ad hoc committee established to investigate the fictitious Presidential Foreign Intervention Promotion Council (PFIPC) has released its preliminary report.

In the report released on Wednesday, the committee said investigations uncovered 58 bank accounts and 12 agencies and entities related to Adeniyi Adeyemi, the PFIPC DG.

The ad committee was instituted by the green chamber following the controversy which trailed the inclusion of the PFIPC in the 2026 appropriation bill.

The report was released by Yusuf Adamu Gagdi, the chairman of the committee.

The reps committee said the preliminary findings arose from its oral testimony, documentary evidence, financial records and submissions of multiple government agencies.

The committee said no valid act of the national assembly or presidential order established the PFIPC.

The committee said “evidence” received from the state house indicated that the presidency did not appoint Adeyemi as the PFIPC DG.

The panel also said it did not find any evidence to show that Femi Gbajabiamila, chief of staff to the president, signed Adeyemi’s appointment letter.

“The Committee therefore preliminarily finds that the purported appointment letter was fabricated and falsely attributed to the Presidency,” the report reads.

“Such conduct, if established through the applicable criminal process, would constitute a grave assault on the integrity of the Office of the President and the official identity of the Federal Government.

“The unlawful creation or deployment of a document calculated to represent that the President or the Chief of Staff had authorised the appointment of a person to head a non-existent federal institution cannot be treated as a mere administrative irregularity.

“It is a matter deserving the most serious investigative and prosecutorial attention.”

The entities linked to Adeyemi and identified by the committee include: Confederation of United Nations Youths; FCT Investment Promotion Agency and Public-Private Partnership; FCT Investment Promotion Council and Public-Private Partnership; Foreign Investment Promotion Agency; United Nations Youth Global Agency; and United Nations Youth Global Foundation.

Others are World United Nations Youth Global Foundation; World Entrepreneurship University Limited; World Enterprise University Limited; FCT Investment Promotion Act; FCT Promotion Agency; and Olubadan of Ibadan Foundation.

The committee said approximately 58 bank accounts were linked to the entities.

REPS PANEL ACCUSES ACCOUNTANT-GENERAL, BUDGET OFFICE OF INSTITUTIONAL LAPSES

The committee said it discovered a forged letter dated November 7, 2024, which purportedly emanated from the state house and addressed to the office of the accountant-general of the federation (OAGF).

The committee said the letter was written to request the creation or issuance of an administrative code for the PFIPC.

The committee said the letter was purportedly signed by one Akambi Adewale, who does not exist in the records of the state house.

The committee accused the OAGF and budget office of the federation of “institutional lapses” in the handling of the PFIPC matter.

The committee said OAGF confirmed that its response to the forged letter should have been addressed through a “properly authenticated official channel” instead of being handed to Adeyemi.

“The office (OAGF) further acknowledged that the response ought not to have been released to Prince Adeniyi Adeyemi or any other unauthorised person but should have been transmitted through a properly authenticated official channel,” the report reads.

“The committee considers it a serious administrative and security lapse that official correspondence addressed to the State House could allegedly have been collected by a person connected with the forged originating request.

“The committee is therefore investigating whether the circumstances arose from negligence, failure to observe elementary verification requirements, breach of established correspondence procedures, wilful disregard of due process or deliberate facilitation.

“No officer will be condemned without fair hearing. Equally, no proven breach of public duty will be overlooked.

“The Budget Office made extensive submissions regarding its interaction with the purported organisation.

“While preliminary evidence indicates that the Office was presented with documentation purporting to establish the organisation as a federal institution, the Committee considers that verification of the legal existence of an institution is a fundamental prerequisite to its recognition within the Federal Budget Framework.”

US mulls requiring parents to prove immigration status to obtain passports for children

2026-09-02T18:23:01.497+01:00

The US State Department is reportedly considering requiring parents to provide proof of their citizenship or immigration status when applying for their children’s passports.

Citing a draft guidance, Reuters said the document provides details on how the State Department could enforce President Donald Trump’s latest executive order targeting what his administration calls “birth tourism” — the practice of pregnant women travelling to the US on non-immigrant visas to give birth so their children can obtain US citizenship.

Trump signed two executive orders last month to scale back American birthright citizenship, a second attempt after the supreme court shot down his previous attempt to eliminate the right.

His initial executive order would have granted automatic US citizenship at birth only to children with at least one parent who was an American citizen or a lawful permanent resident, known as a green card holder.

But in a 6-3 ruling, the supreme court held that the order was unlawful and violated the citizenship clause of the constitution’s 14th amendment.

Trump’s new orders include a provision that broadens the existing definitions of non-citizens.

“The Department will require parental information and evidence of parental citizenship or immigration status as part of its determination ‌whether the ⁠applicant is subject to EO 14418,” the draft guidance reads.

If implemented, the proposal would require all parents or legal guardians to provide proof of citizenship, such as a valid US passport or birth certificate, or evidence of their immigration status, such as an I-94 form or a legal permanent residency card, when submitting a passport application for their children.

The information would be used by the government to determine if the child qualifies for citizenship under the new order.

Currently, parents whose children were born in the US only need to prove their parentage and present photo identification during this process.

They are also asked to check a box on the application form indicating if they are US citizens, but are not required to file supporting documentation.

The proposal is part of Trump’s latest effort to limit birthright ‌citizenship, a top priority for the president in his crackdown on immigration.

Gov.Adeleke Sets Up Panels to Investigate Osun Election Violence

2026-09-02T17:38:45.364+01:00

The Osun State Government has inaugurated two investigative panels to probe allegations of violence and unlawful activities linked to the August 15, 2026 governorship election.

The inauguration took place Wednesday at the Ministry of Justice Conference Hall, Abere, with Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Oluwole Jimi-Bada, representing Governor Ademola Adeleke.

The Commission of Inquiry will examine reports of intimidation, assault, destruction of property, unlawful possession of weapons, and breaches of public peace across the state.

A separate Coroner’s Inquest will focus on the Ikire killings.Jimi-Bada explained that the move was prompted by petitions and public concerns, stressing that elections must remain free and peaceful.

He emphasized that the exercise was not intended to persecute any individual or political party but to establish facts, ensure accountability, and strengthen public order.

“This is a lawful fact-finding body established to ascertain the truth, identify persons affected, determine responsibility where supported by credible evidence, and recommend measures to strengthen public peace,” he said.

The Attorney-General urged political parties, security agencies, civil society groups, and citizens to cooperate with the panels, warning against intimidation of witnesses or interference with proceedings.

The Commission of Inquiry is chaired by Justice Abdurazaq Abdulkareem, with Barrister Biodun Badiora as Secretary, while the Coroner’s Inquest is led by Magistrate Ayokunle Shiyanbola.

2027: Atiku, Obi Will Come After me if Tinubu Loses — Wike

2026-09-02T17:32:58.688+01:00

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has declared that he would bear the brunt of political backlash should President Bola Tinubu fail to secure reelection in 2027.

Speaking during a media parley on Wednesday, Wike said opposition figures such as Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi would come after him directly if Tinubu loses.

“I will be the first politician that I think they will come after. I will be the first politician. I know they will come for my head,” he stated.

The former Rivers State Governor reaffirmed his unwavering support for Tinubu, stressing that he has no regrets about his political stance.

He emphasized that his daily focus revolves around ensuring the President’s reelection.“Each day I sleep, I am thinking about the President’s reelection. When I am eating, I think about the President’s reelection. Everything I am doing now is about the President’s reelection,” Wike added.

Despite criticisms and political attacks, Wike insisted he remains undeterred, noting that he has faced more vilification than any other politician for his loyalty to Tinubu.

Uber exits Nigeria after 12 years of operation

2026-09-02T16:07:27.016+01:00

After 12 years of operation, Uber, a global ride-hailing company, has announced plans to exit Nigeria, effective September 2.

Uber announced the exit in a statement on Wednesday.

“We are writing to share some difficult news. After a thorough review of our business, we have made the tough decision to wind down our operations in Nigeria, effective 2 September 2026,” the company said.

“Since we first launched in Lagos in 2014, it has been an absolute privilege to be a part of your daily life connecting you with independent transportation providers.

“Whether it was a morning commute, a ride to see loved ones, or exploring the city, thank you for trusting the platform to connect you to a driver to get you there safely.

“We know this may cause disruption to your routine, and we sincerely apologize for the inconvenience.”

Uber said the company’s help centre will be available until September 23 to assist customers with any final account queries.

“Thank you for welcoming us into your city,” the company added.

The firm’s operations have faced challenges in Nigeria, with drivers protesting fares, commission rates, and poor treatment in 2017, 2023, and 2025.

Uber has exited 14 countries across Asia and Africa since its launch in 2009.

I told Adeleke to reaffirm his support for Tinubu’s re-election after Osun poll - Wike

2026-09-02T16:07:23.318+01:00

Nyesom Wike, minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), says he told Ademola Adeleke, governor of Osun, to issue a statement declaring his support for the re-election of President Bola Tinubu.

Wike spoke on Wednesday during his monthly media chat with selected journalists in Port Harcourt, where he addressed issues bordering on his relationship with some governors across the country.

Adeleke, who contested his re-election on the platform of Accord, defeated Bola Oyebamiji in the August 15 governorship election held across the 30 LGAs in Osun.

The governor defeated his close rival by a margin of over 60,000 votes, winning in 19 LGAs while the APC candidate was victorious in the remaining 11.

President Bola Tinubu congratulated the governor, describing his re-election as a “fitting assurance” that democracy will continue to flourish under his administration.

Days after the election, Tinubu held a closed-door meeting with Adeleke at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.

The governor presented his certificate of return to the president, thanking him for allowing what he described as a “free and fair election” to hold in Osun.

Adeleke and some of his allies, including David Adeleke, his cousin popularly known as Davido, also visited Wike at his residence in Abuja, where they celebrated the victory.

‘I CALLED ADELEKE FROM CROATIA’

During the media chat, Wike said he influenced Adeleke to make the moves in fulfilment of his promise to support Tinubu’s second-term bid.

“On that election day, I was not in Nigeria. I was outside the country,” Wike said.

“After the Osun election, you can go on record and ask Adeleke. I called him when I was in Croatia. I said, you told me you would support Mr. President. He said, yes.

“I said, now you have won, issue a statement that you will still support Mr. President, thanking him for a free and fair election.

“He issued the statement. I also told him, Adeleke, when you receive your certificate of return, go and present it to Mr. President.”

The minister said the move was aimed at preventing the African Democratic Congress (ADC) from luring the governor into its camp.

“Why was that strategy? To knock off these people you call opposition, coming to curry favour. When Adeleke issued that statement, ADC withdrew,” Wike said.

He said his major concern after the election was whether Adeleke would keep his promise to support Tinubu.

“My concern was, if Adeleke wins, will he still support Mr. President? That was my interest, so I called him,” Wike said.

“I said, listen, you have told me you will support Mr. President. Are you going to keep to it? He said he was going to keep to it. I wished him good luck.

“Anywhere I sit, my strategy, my thinking is: how will the president win this election?”

Days after the Osun election, Wike said Tinubu could have secured victory for the APC in the poll if the president wanted it “at all costs”.

APC Govs Hope Uzodinma, Abdulrazaq Working Againt me – Wike cries out

2026-09-02T15:39:25.326+01:00

Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, has accused the governors of Imo and Kwara states, Hope Uzodinma and Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, of undermining him despite the support he previously extended to them.

Speaking during a media chat in Port Harcourt on Wednesday, the former Rivers State governor alleged that Governor Abdulrazaq has been at the forefront of a campaign against him.

“Take for example, Kwara, he has been the one championing this campaign against me everywhere. Yes, I have confronted him too. I don’t talk about what I cannot defend,” Wike said.

He also referenced his strained relationship with Uzodinma, claiming the Imo governor failed to reciprocate the political support he had given him.

“Governor Hope, he knows the support I give to him,” Wike lamented.

The minister’s remarks add to ongoing tensions within the political landscape as preparations intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Ogun Court Returns Awujale Selection Suit for Reassignment

2026-09-02T15:25:36.632+01:00

A vacation judge of the Ogun State High Court, Justice A. A. Omoniyi, sitting in Ijebu-Ode, on Wednesday issued an interim ruling returning the suit filed by the Fusengbuwa Ruling House against Governor Dapo Abiodun, nine kingmakers, and others to the administrative judge for reassignment.

Justice Omoniyi explained that he would begin his annual vacation within a week and might not resume until January 2027, making it impossible to continue hearing the matter. He noted the urgency of the case, filed on August 21, 2026, but said time constraints required that the file be reallocated.

The suit, numbered HCJ/149/2026, challenges the stoppage of the selection process for the next Awujale of Ijebuland following the death of Oba Sikiru Adetona in July 2025 after a 65-year reign.

Counsel to the Fusengbuwa Ruling House, Olusegun Otayemi, confirmed that all 15 defendants had been served and the family was ready to proceed. Senior Advocate of Nigeria Kunle Kalejaiye appeared for the kingmakers, while state counsel W. A. Onawole represented Governor Abiodun and other government officials.

Speaking after the sitting, Otayemi said the family approached the court to challenge what it described as “deliberate government interference” in the succession process. He stressed the urgency of resolving the matter, noting that “Ijebu-Ode cannot remain kingless for so long.”

Chairman of the Fusengbuwa Ruling House, Otunba Abdulateef Owoyemi, also expressed frustration, saying the family had waited seven months despite completing its nomination process within the legal timeframe. He accused the government of halting the process based on petitions and security reports that were never shared with the family.

The case was adjourned to September 23, 2026, for further hearing after reassignment.

Edo Police Arrest Islamic Teacher for Allegedly Preparing Charms for Kidnappers

2026-09-02T15:03:55.053+01:00

The Edo State Police Command has arrested a 52-year-old Islamic teacher, Jubril Ibrahim, for allegedly preparing charms for kidnappers operating in the Edo North Senatorial District.

Ibrahim was paraded on Tuesday alongside four suspected kidnappers and six other suspects at the command headquarters. Commissioner of Police Patrick Daor said the kidnappers were apprehended in Niger State following intelligence reports.

While denying involvement in preparing charms, Ibrahim admitted to praying for one of the suspects, Ahmadu Suleiman, at the request of his mother. He claimed his prayers were meant to ensure Suleiman’s safe travels.

“When asked if he knew Suleiman had an AK-47 rifle, Ibrahim admitted he was aware,” police officials disclosed.

Suleiman, 24, confessed to participating in a kidnapping operation in Auchi, where victims were abducted after gunshots forced them out of their homes. He said he received ₦1 million from the operation and worked with different syndicates across the country.

Also paraded was a 21-year-old suspect accused of stealing a baby in Benin, while police recovered a stolen vehicle during the operation.

Police spokesperson Eno Ikoedem commended the intelligence efforts that led to the arrests and urged residents to continue providing credible information to aid security operations.

OPay Seeks DSS, Police Probe Over Shutdown Rumour

2026-09-02T14:55:12.693+01:00

Fintech firm OPay has involved the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Police Force in investigating false social media reports claiming the company is shutting down its operations in Nigeria.

Chief Legal Counsel Akinfolabi Rokosu made the disclosure on Wednesday during a press conference streamed on the company’s YouTube channel. He said the DSS, police and other relevant agencies are actively looking into the matter, and that OPay is fully cooperating by supplying evidence to help identify those behind the claims.

“While the DSS and the Nigeria police, among the relevant law enforcement agencies, are currently and intensively investigating this matter, we are fully cooperating with the ongoing investigations being conducted and have provided the necessary evidence to identify those responsible for it,” Rokosu stated.

He added that the company would take legal action against those who created and spread the harmful information, warning that anyone engaging in similar conduct should expect the full consequences of the law. “This is not about silencing anyone. Opay is not going to be silenced,” he said.

OPay’s Chief Operating Officer and Chief Technical Officer, Dotun Adekunle, stressed that the company remains fully operational with no intention of exiting Nigeria. “OPay is here, OPay is operating, and OPay is going nowhere,” he said.

He noted that the circulating message falsely claimed a shutdown from September 1, 2026, yet the company is still running on September 2. Adekunle urged customers not to act on social media or messaging-platform alerts without verifying them through official channels, emphasising that even widely shared or convincingly designed messages can be completely false.

The episode stems from a viral notice that appeared on Sunday, purporting that OPay would suspend operations from September 1 and advising users to withdraw funds.

OPay had earlier labelled the notice false and directed customers to its official communication channels. On Monday the company also asked an X user who posted about the alleged shutdown to retract the claim and apologise; the user subsequently deleted the post and issued an apology.

IPMAN, PETROAN Explain Real Reason Behind Latest Fuel Price Hike in Nigeria

2026-09-02T14:44:01.416+01:00

The Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN) and the Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN) have attributed the recent increase in petrol prices to the escalating conflict between the United States and Iran, as well as higher prices charged by suppliers.

National presidents of the two associations, Abubakar Maigandi (IPMAN) and Billy Gillis-Harry (PETROAN), disclosed this in separate reactions.

Pump prices of petrol have risen to between ₦1,310 and ₦1,345 per litre from the previous range of ₦1,210 to ₦1,275 per litre in less than two weeks.

Maigandi identified the ongoing US-Iran tensions as the major driver of the latest hike, noting that global oil price fluctuations caused by the conflict often push petrol prices in Nigeria up or down.

“The fuel will sometimes go up and down due to the conflict in Iran and the United States,” he said.

Gillis-Harry, on his part, placed the blame squarely on petroleum products suppliers. He explained that retail prices are directly tied to the cost at which marketers purchase the products.

“The reality is that once we buy petroleum products at a certain price from the source of supply, it will affect the prices at the retail outlets. So, regardless of the crude oil price coming down, if we are buying, we will not buy products at ₦1,500 and sell at ₦1,499 per litre.

“If we buy 1,500 per litre, we must still try to make a minimal markup to be able to pay for the cost of finance, cost of services, cost of logistics, cost of overhead and all of that. So, it is not the doing of the retail outlets. Petroleum members are only going to be selling exactly how they buy.“It is not from petroleum retailers. The issue is from the supplier,” he added.

Nigerians should be getting richer as Nigeria’s economic growth outpaces population - Rewane

2026-09-02T14:00:45.071+01:00

Bismarck Rewane, chief executive officer (CEO) of Financial Derivatives Company (FDC) Limited, says Nigeria’s economy is growing faster than its population, meaning Nigerians should be getting richer as economic output increases.

On August 31, the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) said Nigeria’s economy grew by 4.43 percent in real terms in the second quarter (Q2) of 2026.

Speaking during an interview on Channels TV on Tuesday, the economist said the figure should be assessed as a measure of economic output rather than revenue.

He said Nigeria’s estimated population growth rate of about 2 percent means the economy is expanding faster than the population.

“Technically, it means that Nigerians should be getting richer because of the increase in output, as far as increasing population,” he said.

Rewane said Nigeria’s growth rate is significantly higher than the global GDP growth rate of about 2.3 to 2.4 percent.

“So, our rate of growth rate is twice the global growth rate. It’s equal to the African growth rate,” he said.

Rewane said the 4.43 percent growth rate was a strong performance compared with Nigeria’s previous position.

“So, I can say clearly that 4.43% is actually very good compared to where we were,” he said.

“If you look at it properly, you’ll find that 4.43% is the real GDP growth rate. The potential GDP growth rate is also about 4%. So, that is good.”

He said oil refining emerged as the fastest-growing sector during the period.

According to Rewane, oil refining growth increased from 15.78 percent in the second quarter (Q2) of 2025 to 43.94 percent in Q2 of 2026.

Rewane attributed the growth in refining to investments in the sector and the operations of modular refineries.

“It is needless to say, we know that the refinery has invested a lot. The modular refineries are also on. So, we have a plus 28 percent increase,” he said.

The economist said the non-oil sector also expanded its contribution to the economy, accounting for 95 percent of GDP, while the contribution of the oil sector declined.

“But note that oil sector is the primary goose that lays the foreign exchange eggs that we use to drive the economy,” he said.

Rewane said the NBS tracks 46 economic activities, of which 30 expanded during the period, 11 slowed and five contracted.

“So, generally speaking, the economy is doing well in terms of activity levels,” he said.

The economist also compared the GDP performance with the purchasing managers’ index (PMI), saying the index had increased over the preceding three months.

Rewane said the improvement in the PMI, which serves as a leading indicator, was reflected in the GDP growth.

Therefore, as a leading indicator, he said the GDP also increased.

Any Ebonyi LG chairperson who fails to deliver victory for APC will be removed - Nwifuru

2026-09-02T13:55:40.784+01:00

Francis Nwifuru, governor of Ebonyi, says any local government chairperson who fails to secure victory for the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 elections will be removed from office.

According to NAN, Nwifuru spoke on Tuesday in Abakaliki, the state capital, during the inauguration of the new chairpersons and vice-chairpersons of the 13 LGAs.

“Any chairman who fails to win his council will be removed from office and replaced with a councillor. I want this information to be on the headlines of newspapers because, as politicians, we would not speak in secret,” Nwifuru said.

“The chairmen know we would win in the state, and if they choose to sleep and allow others to take their areas, they would be removed.”

Nwifuru urged the politicians not to allow the opposition to thrive in their areas, saying “charity begins at home”.

The governor asked the council chairpersons to do all they can to deliver a 100 percent vote for the APC in 2027 and avoid rivalry with their deputies.

He advised the vice-chairpersons to view their positions as “spare tyres inside the car boot,” saying they should only step in when the substantive chairpersons are unable to function.

“You should always be available to the chairmen and ask them about your council’s daily activities. Do not listen to gossip and ill advice from your friends against your chairmen because that will destroy your relationship with them,” Nwifuru said.

Nwifuru said his deputy was once a council chairperson, adding that no one could have predicted that she would one day become deputy governor.

“She performed in ways people saw her and believed she could do the work of a deputy governor. My deputy is doing the work perfectly and presently enjoying the position,” he said.

Speaking on behalf of his colleagues, Timothy Nwachi, the chairman of Afikpo LGA, thanked the governor and party stakeholders for the opportunity to serve the people.

“We pledge to justify the confidence reposed in us and especially ensure that APC records a landslide in 2027,” Nwachi said.

The new council chairpersons include Osborne Umahi, the son of David Umahi, minister of works; and Chidi Nwode, the brother of Nwifuru’s wife.

‘Two ISWAP terrorists’ surrender to troops in Borno

2026-09-02T13:55:37.042+01:00

Two suspected members of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) have reportedly surrendered to troops of the Nigerian Army in Monguno LGA of Borno state.

According to Zagazola Makama, a counter-insurgency publication, the suspects identified as Jidda Modu, 20, and Kaka Kawu, 21, surrendered to troops of Headquarters Sector 3 in Monguno town on Tuesday.

Makama quoted sources as saying that the suspects surrendered two AK-47 rifles, eight rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition and two magazines.

“Other items recovered from them included five mobile phones — Infinix, Tecno, Samsung, Redmi and a Tecno button phone — as well as one pair of earbuds, a power bank, a Zenith Bank ATM card, a memory card and a USB cable,” the publication said.

“The troops also recovered two head warmers and one bag from the men. Preliminary interrogation revealed that the two were among a group of about 10 ISWAP members who reportedly left a terrorist camp at Arinna Chiki with the intention of surrendering to the authorities.”

Makama said the suspects and the recovered items have been taken into the custody of Headquarters Sector 3 for further action.

Nigeria’s Democracy Could Collapse Under Tinubu’s ‘Dictatorship’ - SDP’s Adebayo Warns

2026-09-02T13:30:31.204+01:00

Social Democratic Party (SDP) presidential candidate Adewole Adebayo has warned that Nigeria’s democracy risks coming to an end if what he described as President Bola Tinubu’s “dictatorship” continues.

Adebayo made the remarks on Wednesday during an interview on Arise Television’s Morning Show, while discussing the state of the nation.

He noted that Nigerians share more areas of agreement than disagreement on key issues.“What I know is that subsidy and some of these issues are not central to the challenges the country is facing. The real challenge is democracy itself,” he said.

“Democracy may end if we allow the burden of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s dictatorship to continue.“It may end if we cannot guarantee free, fair and credible elections, or if we continue to generate voter apathy because we cannot articulate a clear alternative before Nigerians of what the country can become in a short order.”

'Amaechi Made Pregnant Woman Give Birth in Prison' - Wike

2026-09-02T13:24:29.300+01:00

Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike has accused Rotimi Amaechi, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) vice-presidential candidate, of causing a pregnant woman to give birth in prison during his tenure as Rivers State governor.

Wike made the allegation on Wednesday during his monthly media interaction with journalists. He claimed that Amaechi, who governed Rivers State from 2007 to 2015, shut down the state’s judiciary, which led to the incident.

The minister levelled the accusation while criticising the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) for giving Amaechi a platform to speak at its recently concluded annual conference in Port Harcourt.

“Rotimi Amaechi, who wants to be vice president today, once shut down the court in Rivers State and made a pregnant woman to give birth in the prison,” Wike said.

He added that if he, as FCT minister (often regarded as the territory’s de facto governor), ordered the shutdown of courts, he should not be offered a platform to justify such an action.

Kwara Assembly Declares Two Members' Seats Vacant For Dumping APC for PDP

2026-09-02T12:53:01.817+01:00

The Kwara State House of Assembly has declared vacant the seats of two of its members, Saba Yisa Gideon (Edu Constituency) and Olusola Odetundun (Irepodun Constituency) after they left the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

The decision followed a formal request from APC State Chairman Prince Sunday Fagbemi. In a letter to Speaker Salihu Yakubu Danladi, Fagbemi cited Section 109 (1)(g) and (2) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended). He argued that the lawmakers, who won their seats on the APC platform, had no constitutional basis to switch parties because the APC was not divided.

House Leader Abdulkadir Oba Magaji led the debate in support of the request. He stressed that the Constitution clearly bars a member from abandoning the party under which they were elected before the end of their tenure. Magaji noted that the two lawmakers had not only defected to the PDP but were also seeking re-election on the opposition party’s platform, an action he said violated the constitutional provision.

Other members who backed the move included Abolarin Ganiyu Gabriel (Ekiti Constituency), Ganiyu Folabi Salahu (Omupo Constituency), and Oguniyi David Sheun (Ojomu/Balogun Constituency).Speaker Salihu Yakubu Danladi subsequently declared the seats vacant in line with Section 109 (1)(g) and (2) of the 1999 Constitution.

Borno Commissioner Apologises After Threatening to Flog Opposition

2026-09-02T12:46:25.619+01:00

Borno State Commissioner for Poverty Alleviation, Youth and Sports Development, Sainna Buba, has apologised and formally retracted comments in which he threatened to “flog” those who refuse to support the All Progressives Congress (APC).

In a widely circulated video from an empowerment programme organised by the City Boy Movement in Maiduguri, Buba had declared: “The government is our government. Those who follow us will enjoy the honey; if you refuse, then you will be flogged.”

He also said: “We are now playing politics. Whoever shows us a finger, we will show him a finger. Whoever dares to show us a finger again, we will break his finger.”

Addressing journalists in Maiduguri on Wednesday, Buba said the remark was never intended to harm anyone or violate citizens’ fundamental rights to freedom of choice and association as guaranteed by the Nigerian Constitution.

“In recent days, a comment I made during the empowerment programme organised by the City Boy Movement in Maiduguri has generated considerable concern within the public space,” he stated.

“I wish to state, unequivocally, that my remark was never intended to harm or violate the fundamental rights of the people of our dear state to freedom of choice and association.”While noting that he had earlier clarified the comment was not meant to be taken literally, Buba said the continuing public concern prompted him to issue a formal retraction and apology.

“I am using this medium to retract my earlier statement formally and to apologise to the entire people of Borno State and beyond for any offence it may have caused,” he said.

He emphasised that the comment does not represent the ideals of the APC or the administration of Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, stressing that the government respects the rights of all citizens, particularly the youth.

NCDC Reports 14 New Lassa Fever Cases as Death Toll Hits 252

2026-09-02T12:40:03.790+01:00

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has confirmed 14 new cases of Lassa fever, bringing the total number of infections in 2026 to 1,035.

According to the agency’s Week 33 situation report released in Abuja on Tuesday, the new cases were recorded between August 10 and August 16 in Bauchi, Benue, Ondo, and Edo states.

The cumulative death toll has risen to 252, with the case fatality rate climbing to 24.4 percent. This is higher than the 18.6 percent recorded during the corresponding period in 2025.

The 14 cases mark an increase from the four confirmed infections reported in epidemiological Week 32, which were limited to Ondo and Edo states. At that time, total cases stood at 1,021, with 240 deaths and a fatality rate of 23.5 percent.

NCDC noted that the Week 32 figure itself reflected a drop from the 17 cases recorded in Week 31, highlighting ongoing fluctuations in weekly transmission.

By Week 33, 23 states had reported at least one confirmed case across 117 local government areas. The agency said Lassa fever remains a significant public health concern and reaffirmed its commitment to continued surveillance and response efforts in the affected states.