Author: gqSbgCfmna

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Friday extended the deadline for political parties to submit the e-copy of their membership register from April 21 to May 10.

The commission also said that political parties are free to fix the party primaries between April 23 and May 30th May, adding that the parties must submit their register to the commission 21 days before the primaries.

National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Haruna, who disclosed in a statement, said the decision to extend the deadline was as a result of concerns raised by leaders of political parties during their recent meeting with the commission.

The statement explained that ‘at the meeting of the Commission with the Political Parties on Tuesday, 24th March 2026, concerns were raised on the timeline for the submission of Political Parties’ Registers of Members under the Revised Timetable and Schedule of Activities for the 2027 General Election, which was originally fixed for 1st April 2026 to 21st April 2026.

‘The Commission, at the said meeting, agreed to adjust the period for the submission of the Political Parties’ Registers of Members to align the 21 days prescribed by Section 77(4) of the Electoral Act, 2026, with the actual dates fixed by political parties themselves.

‘Political parties are accordingly informed that they are free to fix the dates of their primaries within the approved period from the 23rd of April 2026 to the 30th of May 2026. It is imperative that parties adhere to this timeline to ensure a smooth electoral process.’

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commiserated with former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, over the death of his mother, Hajiya Umma, who passed away in Cairo after an illness.

Her death was announced yesterday by her grandson in a post on Facebook.

‘Inna lillahiwainnailayhiraji’un. From Allah SWT we came and to Him we shall all return. I would like to inform the public of the demise of my Grandmother, HajiyaUmma El-Rufai, who passed away a few hours ago,’ he wrote.

‘We are grateful for the life she lived and may Allah SWT bless her gentle soul.

‘May He bless the soul of the parents we have lost. On behalf of our family, we seek your prayers. Thank you,’ the statement added.

In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, yesterday, the President described the late matriarch of the El-Rufai family as a woman who lived a remarkable life and raised children and grandchildren who have made significant contributions to the nation.

‘Nasir, please accept my heartfelt condolences on the passing of your beloved mother, Hajiya Umma, which happened today in Cairo. As someone who had also lost an old mother, I share in your grief. I understand the depth of your loss,’ the President said.

President Tinubu noted that the loss of a mother carries a unique pain, adding that no words can fully ease such sorrow.

‘Losing a mother is a pain unlike any other. I know that no words can fully ease your sorrow, but I pray that the memories of her love, wisdom, and guidance bring you comfort in the days ahead.

‘I also hope you find strength in the remarkable life she lived and the values she instilled in the entire family,’ he stated.

The President further expressed faith in the Islamic belief of returning to the Creator, noting that the deceased had fulfilled her purpose on earth.

‘As firm believers in Allah, we are convinced that she has played her part in this world as laid out for her by the Almighty and has gone back to her Maker,’ he added.

He joined family members, friends, and associates in mourning the deceased and prayed that Almighty Allah grants her eternal rest.

‘I join family, friends, and well-wishers in mourning with you. May Allah grant your dear mother Aljannah Firdaus,’ the President said.

Ribadu mourns El-Rufai’s mother, recalls fond memories

The National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, yesterday expressed grief over the death of HajiyaUmma El-Rufai, mother of a former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, describing her as a caring figure with whom he shared fond memories.

In a condolence message posted on Facebook yesterday, Ribadu reflected on his personal encounters with the deceased and extended sympathies to the El-Rufai family.

‘Inna lilLahiwainnaillahirraji’un. I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of HajiyaUmma El-Rufai, the matriarch of the El-Rufai family.

‘I have fond memories of shared moments with her and her motherly care. At a time like this, words can offer little comfort for such a profound loss.

‘My heart-felt condolences to MallamNasir El-Rufai and the entire family.

‘May Almighty Allah forgive her shortcomings, grant her eternal rest in AljannahFirdaus, and give the family the strength to bear this loss,’ he wrote.

What lesson has Nigerian politics taught you in the last couple of years as someone who aspired to be a local government chairman in Ogun State?

Nigeria’s politics is quite deceptive and very discouraging, but if you are someone who wants your communities and country to be better, then you must get involved. It is unpatriotic to just sit down and watch other people making decisions that will affect your life and well-being, while you are just looking, most particularly, if the people in leadership are not good at making quality decisions. Prior to my aspiration for the local government chairmanship contest, I had done a lot for my communities with my personal resources, which I believe, if I were the local government chairman, with the ideas and experience I had gathered overseas, I would make Yewa North Local Government a wealthy community and a reference point in Nigeria. Unfortunately for me, we don’t have many such critical thinkers among our leaders in Yewa North who can connect with those ideologies and visions.

You have also been to the court to challenge what you considered as unfairness and abuse of due process in your party’s primary, leading to the 2024 council poll. Are you satisfied with challenging the matter in court?

The court is an arm of our democratic process, and every responsible citizen should take that opportunity as a way of dialogue, not resorting to anarchy or other violence means. Honestly, I have no regrets about going to court because, as a democrat, I did that to help our democratic process.

In that local government election primary of our great party, the APC in 2024, I was ashamed as a progressive democrat because our party’s constitution was violated, the Electoral Act of 2022 and the constitution of our great country were violated by senior party officials and leaders of Ogun State APC. As a democrat and a die-hard APC person, I believe challenging such impunity and undemocratic tendencies was the right thing to do because similar impunity and hazardous behaviours led to the collapse of the almighty PDP politically.

The electoral act 2022, which was used for that election and our party constitution emphasized that candidates could emerge through consensus, direct or indirect primaries. In choosing a candidate for Yewa North Local Government, none of these three methods was adopted. This implies that the current chairman of Yewa North local government is a sole administrator. More so, the chairmanship position was already zoned to the Ayetoro Area. I have video evidence to support this assertion when the local government’s party chairman, Chief Adekunle Adeosun and other excos addressed all the aspirants on September 1st, 2024, in Ayetoro. Zoning is part of our party DNA.

Although due to pressure and persuasion from my family, my political associates and my Kabiyesi, the Olu of Idofoi, Oba Olatunji Abioro, I have decided to withdraw from going forward with the court process, but unfortunately, we still have a long way to go in this country.

The judiciary ought to be careful and to do its work diligently without fear or favour so as not to be seen as not protecting the hope of the common man but the privileged and to avoid helping in destroying democracy.

The Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, Comrade Grace Ike, has reaffirmed the union’s commitment to empowering women journalists, as she called for greater inclusivity and professionalism in the media space.

Comrade Ike made this known at a capacity-building training organised by the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), FCT Chapter, in partnership with the German Embassy, to mark the 2026 International Women’s Day in Abuja.

Represented by the Treasurer of the Council, Comrade Sandra Chukwugekwu, the NUJ Chairman described the theme of the training, ‘Empowering Women Journalists for Democratic Governance and Social Change,’ as both timely and necessary.

‘It is with great pleasure and a deep sense of pride that I welcome you all to this important event,’ she said. ‘Women journalists continue to play a critical role in shaping narratives, holding leaders accountable, and amplifying the voices of the underserved.’

She, however, acknowledged the persistent challenges facing women in the media, including gender bias, limited leadership opportunities, and safety concerns in the field.

‘This is why gatherings like this are so important. They provide not just a platform for learning, but a space for reflection, growth, and solidarity,’ she added.

Comrade Ike reaffirmed the NUJ FCT Council’s dedication to promoting professionalism and inclusivity, particularly through capacity-building initiatives targeted at women journalists.

She also commended the leadership of NAWOJ FCT, led by Chairperson Comrade Bassey Ita Ikpang, for organising the training, and appreciated the German Embassy for its continued support towards media development and gender empowerment.

‘This collaboration is a strong reminder that when institutions work together, the impact is deeper and more sustainable,’ she noted.

Earlier, the Chairperson of NAWOJ FCT, Comrade Bassey Ita Ikpang, said the training was designed to equip female journalists with essential skills in investigative reporting, ethical journalism, gender-sensitive storytelling, and leadership.

‘At a time when the media plays a pivotal role in shaping public discourse, it is essential that women journalists are not only visible but empowered to influence narratives and promote accountability,’ Ikpang stated.

She described the initiative as a deliberate effort to build a strong and resilient network of women journalists capable of driving social change.

Representing the German Embassy, Spokesperson Mr. Felix Haala said the partnership was aimed at strengthening the capacity of female journalists and amplifying their voices in Nigeria’s media landscape.

‘Nigeria has a large media landscape with many talented women journalists. Strengthening their capacity and networks will ensure their voices are heard. Without female journalists, there is no development,’ he said.

In a keynote address, NAWOJ National President, Comrade Aisha Ibrahim, urged participants to go beyond storytelling and become advocates for truth and drivers of societal transformation.

She described the collaboration between NAWOJ and the German Embassy as commendable, noting that the national body would continue to support initiatives that promote women’s development.

Delivering a lecture, CEO of Valor Communications, Dr. Lemmy Ughegbe, emphasised the importance of investigative journalism and fact-checking in combating misinformation.

‘No matter the pressure, the golden rule remains: when in doubt, leave it out,’ he advised.

Also speaking, former NAWOJ National President, Comrade Ladi Bala, encouraged participants to embrace gender-sensitive reporting and support one another in leadership roles.

She noted that women remain underrepresented in media narratives and called for more inclusive reporting.

‘The issue of justice, rights, and action is needed in the media space. Women are still grossly marginalised in the pattern of our reportage,’ she said.

Participants at the training described the programme as insightful and impactful, expressing confidence that the knowledge gained would enhance their professional practice and storytelling.

Singer Liya has revealed why she parted ways with Davido Music Worldwide (DMW) in 2023.

The artist, who was DMW’s first female signee in October 2020, said she left to pursue personal and professional growth.

Speaking on Wahala with Josy Anne, Liya shared her struggles with depression and feeling overwhelmed, leading her to rely on her manager.

‘Why did I leave? I just wanted more for myself, as a person and as an artist. I wanted more for myself. It was sad, it was depressing, I was tired, I was sick, but it was a decision that I had to make for myself. Yeah, because everyone thought I had it all figured out,’ she said.

According to her, she faced harsh criticism, with some accusing her of being lazy or not utilising the label’s resources.

‘They called me names. People saying, Oh, she’s just lazy. She doesn’t know what she’s doing. They’re just pouring money on her, and she’s not doing anything for over a year or two years. They’d just be like, oh, yeah, you just don’t know what you’re doing. It was my fault,’ she said.

She added that things got so bad that she stopped handling her Instagram posts by herself for about two or three years.

‘And all that period, I just did not know how to post by myself. For the past two or three years. I never posted myself on Instagram. Yeah. I always have my manager post for me. I mean, we’ll put the pictures and stuff together, slides and everything. But then I just send everything to him. Oh, this is the first slide, second slide,’ she said.

Liya, however, praised her manager for staying patient with her through it all.

‘He was tired, but I’m so glad he understood. He was very patient with me. He never pushed me or forced me to post myself,’ she added.

Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Okezie Kalu, said on Saturday that the visionary leadership provided by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has continued to shape the destiny of the country.

In a congratulatory message on the President’s 74th birthday, Kalu extolled the President’s visionary leadership, stating that his tenure has significantly shaped Nigeria’s destiny and taken the nation to greater heights.

The Deputy Speaker applauded the President’s commitment to the progress of the Nigerian nation and his bold initiatives aimed at driving economic growth and development of Nigeria.

Kalu said that the economic initiatives and policies anchored on the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda will continue to impact positively on the citizens and the generations to come.

He reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the President’s agenda and working collaboratively to build a prosperous and more united Nigeria, while expressing confidence in the President’s leadership to continue inspiring and uplifting Nigerians.

The Deputy Speaker wished Tinubu a happy birthday, praying for many more years of good health, wisdom, and guidance as he continues to pilot the affairs of the nation.

‘His Excellency, as you celebrate another year of life, I acknowledge your dedication to public service. I celebrate not just your life, but the impact your administration has had on our country. Your visionary leadership has shaped our nation’s destiny.

‘May your vision continue to guide us towards greatness. I wish you many more years in good health and the wisdom to continue piloting the affairs of our nation. Happy Birthday, Your Excellency. Congratulations, Sir’, Kalu said.

Persons with disabilities (PWDs) have called for stronger policy implementation, inclusive governance, and an end to systemic discrimination at a town hall meeting held in Asaba, Delta State.

The event was organised by News Central Television in collaboration with The Albino Foundation Africa (TAF Africa) and brought together more than 200 participants, including PWDs, policymakers, advocates, community leaders, and healthcare professionals.

The forum, held at BON Hotel, Asaba, focused on challenges affecting PWDs, including limited access to education, employment, and healthcare, as well as poor infrastructure and weak enforcement of disability laws.

TAF Africa, led by CEO Jake Epelle, donated wheelchairs and other assistive devices to over 50 PWDs after the town hall meeting.

The event focused on empowerment, inclusion, and addressing systemic discrimination.

Participants discussed challenges, and the initiative promoted justice and equity over sympathy.

Participants shared personal experiences of exclusion and discrimination.

A visually impaired teacher, Sola Idowu, said he had struggled to secure employment since 2014 due to bias, while Chinedu Uwabuofu highlighted accessibility challenges at Delta State University, noting that inadequate facilities often prevent full participation in lectures.

Stakeholders at the meeting called for greater inclusion in governance. President of ISJID, Isaac Odjuwu, urged federal and state governments to create designated seats for persons with disabilities in legislative bodies to ensure representation in policymaking.

Declaring the event open, the Asagba of Asaba, Epiphany Azinge, called for a shift from sympathy to practical solutions rooted in justice and equity.

He urged PWDs to embrace resilience and avoid being perceived as dependent, while also calling on government and stakeholders to prioritise inclusive infrastructure.

Founder and Chief Executive Officer of TAF Africa, Jake Epelle, emphasised the need to move beyond charity-based approaches to disability issues.

He called for the enforcement of existing laws, including the Discrimination Against Persons with Disabilities Act, noting that implementation remains weak.

Managing Director of News Central Television, Kayode Akintemi, said the initiative reflected the organisation’s commitment to amplifying marginalised voices and promoting social change.

The town hall featured interactive sessions where participants proposed solutions and community-driven initiatives, while organisers pledged continued advocacy to advance inclusion and improve the welfare of persons with disabilities across Nigeria.

Popular social media personality and AI-themed content creator, Amadou Aminata aka Jarvis, has debunked the notion that content creation is easy, stressing that it requires deliberate effort, creativity and strategic thinking.

Jarvis made this known while speaking as a panelist at The Creative Blueprint masterclass hosted by Funke Akindele on Thursday, March 19.

According to her, many people underestimate the work that goes into building engaging digital content, often assuming it only involves recording and posting videos.

‘Creating content is not easy. The misconception people have is that it’s just about picking up your phone, making a video and posting. That’s not what real content creation is,’ she said.

She explained that her journey began as a TikTok streamer, where she initially created casual, conversational content but struggled to retain audience attention.

‘I started as a normal person who came online to talk. It was engaging at first, but my audience wasn’t sticking with me,’ she added.

Jarvis noted that her breakthrough came when she began to rethink her content strategy and identify what could set her apart in a crowded digital space.

‘I asked myself what I could do differently to keep people glued and entertained. That was how the AI robotic content came about,’ she said.

She added that the shift paid off, as audience engagement grew significantly, with viewers actively watching and interacting with her content.

‘It was exciting to see people connect with something new,’ she said.

The race for continental tickets and the fight to beat the drop take centre stage as Matchday 32 of the NPFL delivers a thrilling lineup. From Ibadan to Aba, Lagos to Maiduguri, every point now carries enormous weight.

All eyes will be on Ibadan where Shooting Stars host league leaders Rangers International FC in what is undeniably the headline fixture of the weekend.

Rangers, currently top with 54 points, come into this clash unbeaten in their last eight games, showcasing a remarkable transformation in the second stanza. The Flying Antelopes have navigated tougher tests and will be confident of extending their dominance, even though they will be without head coach Fidelis Ilechukwu, who is away on national duty with the Super Eagles in Turkey.

Shooting Stars, sitting sixth with 47 points, know the stakes that only a home win keeps their top-three ambitions alive. For Rangers, even a draw could be enough to retain top spot on goal difference.

The Abia derby between Enyimba and Abia Warriors carries both historical weight and present urgency.

Abia Warriors are in fifth position with 49 points and a win could significantly boost their chances of securing a continental ticket. However, Enyimba’s situation is far more precarious. The People’s Elephant are 16th with 36 points, just above the relegation zone on goal difference.

Despite their struggles, Enyimba cannot afford to slip at home as they fight to preserve their topflight status. Memories of last season linger, when Enyimba denied Abia Warriors a crucial win, triumphing 2-1 in a similar high stakes encounter.

Lagos hosts a crucial North Central derby between Kwara United and Nasarawa United, with contrasting ambitions on the line.

Kwara United are in deep trouble, 19th with 33 points, and must win to keep their survival hopes alive. On the other hand, Nasarawa United sit third with 50 points, firmly in the race for a CAF Inter-club ticket.

The Solid Miners have shown their intent by flying into Lagos early, and an away victory could not only strengthen their continental push but also keep alive an outside chance of the league title should Rangers and Rivers United falter.

Ikorodu City will aim to complete a double over Warri Wolves after a 2-0 first-leg win in Ozoro. The Oga Boys are fourth with 49 points, fresh from a 2-2 draw against Kun Khalifat in Owerri.

Warri Wolves, hovering in mid-table, will be determined to halt their charge and spoil the party in Lagos.

In Benin City, Bendel Insurance (7th, 45 points) will look to avenge their 1-0 first-leg loss in Jos against Plateau United.

With a five-point gap separating them from third place, the Benin Arsenals need victory to keep continental hopes alive. Plateau United (9th, 42 points) are equally motivated as they seek to distance themselves from relegation concerns.

Maiduguri plays host to a tense relegation scrap as El Kanemi Warriors face Remo Stars.

Defending champions Remo Stars have endured a poor title defence and now sit 18th with 36 points, dangerously close to relegation. El Kanemi Warriors are also not entirely safe, making this a high-pressure encounter for both sides.

Barau FC, buoyed by a 1-1 draw away in Katsina, will face the same opponents in Kano.

The impact of administrator Dominic Iorfa is evident, with Barau FC climbing to 11th with 41 points, a significant improvement from their earlier relegation struggles. They will aim to secure maximum points at home this time.

In Minna, Niger Tornadoes host Wikki Tourists, hoping to build on their 1-1 draw in Bauchi earlier in the season.

With home advantage, Tornadoes will be targeting all three points to strengthen their position.

Bayelsa United face a must-win scenario in Yenagoa after a 1-0 defeat to Plateau United in Jos.

The Prosperity Boys are 15th with 37 points, just above the drop zone, while Kano Pillars sit 14th with 39 points, only three points clear of danger. A loss for Sai Masu Gida could drag them right back into relegation trouble.

In Port Harcourt, Rivers United will be desperate to halt a worrying slide.

The Pride of Rivers have lost their last four games, dropping to second place with 52 points. They now face bottom-placed Kun Khalifat, who have 33 points and are in dire need of points after a 2-2 home draw with Ikorodu City.

Rivers United must win to keep pace in the title race, while Kun Khalifat cannot afford another setback in their survival fight.

NPFL Matchday 32 Fixtures

Shooting Stars vs. Rangers

Enyimba vs, Abia Warriors

Kwara United vs. Nasarawa United

Ikorodu City vs. Warri Wolves

Insurance vs Plateau United

El Kanemi Warriors vs. Remo Stars

Barau FC vs. Katsina United

Niger Tornadoes vs. Wikki Tourists

Bayelsa United vs. Kano Pillars

Rivers United vs. Kun Khalifat

The Egba people of Ogun State converged on the historic Ake Palace grounds in Abeokuta on Saturday for the grand finale of the 39th Lisabi Festival, bringing to a close a vibrant week-long celebration that kicked off on March 23.

The annual festival honours Lisabi Agbongbo Akala, the legendary Egba warrior who, in the 18th century, led a successful revolt against the Oyo Empire, securing independence and self-determination for his people.

Highlights of the event include traditional homage-paying rites, thrilling warrior-themed reenactments, pulsating drumming sessions, and colourful dance parades that showcase Egba heritage.

Under the authority of the Alake of Egbaland, the festival unites all Egba subgroups, Ake, Oke-Ona, Gbagura, and Owu in a powerful display of unity, cultural pride, and shared identity.

Saturday’s grand finale featured the Egbaliganza, a colourful cultural fashion showcase championed by the Aare of Egbaland, Chief Lai Labode.

The initiative spotlights traditional Egba attire and promotes local enterprise, with coordinated outfits dominated by Abeokuta’s iconic Adire fabric taking centre stage.

The Lisabi Festival Committee had earlier clarified in February that Egbaliganza is limited to a two-hour slot within the week-long programme and does not alter the festival’s core historical focus.

The occasion also served as a grand homecoming for Egba indigenes from the diaspora, drawing political leaders, prominent business figures, and cultural influencers.

Throughout the week, the city witnessed a surge in local trade and street activity, while security was beefed up around key venues to ensure a peaceful celebration.