Category: Daily Trust

Some International and local observers have expressed concern over reports of vote buying and low voter turnout during Saturday’s governorship election in Anambra.

Reports from Yiaga Africa, European Union Support to Democratic Governance in Nigeria (EU-SDGN) II and other partner organisations indicated that voter turnout was low in most polling units across the 21 local government areas of the state.

Speaking to newsmen in Awka, the Executive Director of Yiaga Africa, Mr Samson Itodo, identified vote buying and low turnout as recurring issues observed in the thematic areas of the election.

Also, Ms Asabe Ndahi of the Kukah Centre decried logistical challenges, including late arrival of Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security officials in high-risk areas such as Nkwelle-Ezunaka, Ihiala, Ogbaru, and Nnewi South.

The Federal Ministry of Education has clarified that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s approval for the establishment of the Federal University of Science and Technology, Epe, Lagos State, was granted before the Federal Executive Council (FEC) imposed a seven-year suspension on creating new federal tertiary institutions.

It was further learnt that the same executive memo that approved the Epe university also included approvals for the Federal University of Science and Technology, Kachia, Kaduna State, and the Federal University of Environment and Technology, Tai and Koroma, Ogoniland, Rivers State.

Earlier reports by Daily Trust had indicated that the President approved the Epe university’s establishment after the moratorium, raising questions about policy inconsistency.

However, the ministry explained that the approval was contained in an executive memo signed months before the FEC’s decision.

Minister of Education, Dr. Tunji Alausa, had previously emphasized that the moratorium was necessary to tackle infrastructural deficits, underutilization, and declining academic standards in existing institutions.

‘Several federal universities operate far below capacity, with some having fewer than 2,000 students,’ he said. ‘If we want to improve quality and not be a laughing stock globally, the pragmatic step is to pause new institutions.’

The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, announced during last week Thursday’s plenary session that President Tinubu had signed the Federal University of Science and Technology, Epe (Establishment) Bill 2025 into law.

According to Alausa, the delay in announcing the university’s establishment was purely procedural. The Senate had gone on its annual recess before the bill’s final passage, which delayed its formal transmission to the President.

Tinubu eventually signed it into law earlier this month, formalizing the university’s legal status.

The specialized university will focus on emerging fields such as artificial intelligence, software engineering, data science, and other STEM disciplines, aligning with Nigeria’s digital economy goals and the growing industrial corridor around Epe and Ibeju-Lekki.

‘The Federal Government remains fully committed to enforcing the seven-year moratorium on establishment of new federal tertiary institutions, and this moratorium remains sacrosanct,’ stated Folasade Boriowo, Director of Press and Public Relations at the Ministry.

The clarification reaffirms that only universities approved before the moratorium-like Epe-fall outside the freeze, which will remain in effect until at least 2032 unless the FEC decides otherwise.

Chief Bisi Akande, fondly known as Baba Akande or Baba awon omo kekere, remains one of Nigeria’s most respected elder statesmen. Though retired from active politics, his decades of leadership continue to inform national governance. His tenure as Governor of Osun State from 1999 to 2003 was marked by practical reforms that expanded free education, strengthened healthcare, and ensured prudent fiscal management, earning the state a reputation for stability, transparency, and progress. Today, his experience serves as a benchmark for disciplined and citizen-focused leadership.

At the Joel Babatola Annual Lecture organised by the Ekiti Council of Elders in Ado-Ekiti, Akande drew on this wealth of experience to address Nigeria’s current challenges and prospects. In his lecture, ‘Governance, Structural Reforms and the Economic Landscape of Nigeria in the Present 21st Century,’ he emphasised that effective governance requires a blend of historical awareness, strategic planning, and practical action. He paid tribute to the late Chief Joel Babatola as ‘a great son of Ekitiland and one of the champions of the Action Group’s vision for a prosperous Nigeria,’ linking past leadership ideals to contemporary responsibilities.

Akande paid tribute to the late Chief Joel Babatola describing him as ‘a great son of Ekitiland and one of the champions of the Action Group’s vision for a prosperous Nigeria.’ He traced the historical roots of Nigeria’s political economy emphasizing the complex interplay of regional kingdoms, early conflicts and the structures left behind by colonial administration.

Reflecting on his tenure as Governor of Osun State, Baba Akande highlighted reforms that expanded free education strengthened healthcare and ensured prudent fiscal management. These achievements earned Osun State a reputation for stability transparency and progress. Observers note that his administration combined strategic planning with citizen-focused programs offering practical examples of how governance can be effective and responsive.

During the lecture Akande answered a wide range of questions on governance policy and leadership with clarity and precision. His guidance has shaped presidential decisions twice in succession underscoring his role as a strategist and advisor behind the scenes. Political insiders frequently point to his foresight practical reasoning and strategic judgment as reasons why leaders continue to seek his counsel.

Akande also drew lessons from history reminding the audience of past struggles under colonial rule and military dictatorship. ‘The military in most civilizations is trained to kill destroy and conquer not to govern civil societies,’ he said. He explained how military rule left a legacy of fiscal indiscipline and distorted priorities which continue to affect Nigeria’s economic and social development.

Turning to contemporary governance he highlighted the PBAT Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as a blueprint for 21st-century economic renewal. Key priorities include food self-sufficiency infrastructure development human capital growth and national unity. These measures aim to defend Nigeria’s resources from internal sabotage and external exploitation while opening opportunities for citizens to take leadership roles in the economy.

Closing his lecture Akande called on Nigerians to uphold the values of integrity service and patriotism. ‘Blessed be the memory of Joel Babatola. Blessed be the unity and progress of Nigeria,’ he said earning applause from traditional rulers academics and government officials present. His voice continues to influence policy and decisions demonstrating that real leadership does not end when formal office is left behind.

Baba Akande’s life shows that disciplined thought practical action and unwavering honesty can leave a lasting mark on a nation. His guidance ensures that Nigeria’s leaders have both direction and perspective as they navigate complex economic and political challenges. Those who follow his counsel recognize that his influence remains as relevant today as it was during his tenure in office and that the country continues to benefit from his steady hand.

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State, Hon. Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, has said the threat by the United States President Donald Trump to take military action against Nigeria over alleged killings of Christians should be a source of concern to every Nigerian.

Oyintiloye, who commended President Tinubu and security agencies for their commitment to decimating insecurity in the country, urged Nigerians to be united in order to defend their sovereignty.

He called on religious, community, and political leaders in the country to rally behind President Bola Tinubu to end terrorism in the country.

Speaking with journalists in Osogbo on Sunday, Oyintiloye, a former lawmaker said at this critical period, Nigerians, irrespective of political or religious affiliations, should come together to support the President and join efforts to overcome the security challenges facing the country. He said the current security situation did not start with Tinubu’s administration but grew over a long period of time from terrorism to banditry, insisting that at no time did Nigeria have war against any particular religion.

‘We must come together and rally behind the President at this period. Our religious or political affiliations are irrelevant at this period; what we need is oneness and unity to protect the sovereignty of our dear country,’ he said.

He added that all religions in the country, Muslims, Christians, and others, have experienced negative impacts of terrorism, noting that no religion could be said to be the target of the murderous acts of the perpetrators of these heinous crimes.

Appreciating the concerns of the United States over the security situation in the country, he further said sharing of intelligence information and US military equipment support to fight insecurity in the country would go a long way in helping Nigeria to tackle and defeat the menace of insecurity.

The APC chieftain, however, cautioned Nigerians, especially members of the opposition, to be mindful of their utterances at this period, adding that whatever happens will affect everyone.

Oyintiloye also urged the newly appointed military chiefs not to betray the trust reposed in them by the President and work hard to defeat terrorists in the country.

He appealed to them to do everything within their power to justify their appointment at this critical period.

‘This is not a time to play opposition politics. We must all come to the realization that all our hopes, aspirations, and dreams to get public offices rest squarely on the continued existence of Nigeria.

‘Our current set of leaders will be there for a period of time and move on. But Nigerians must not walk into a trap that will make the country cease to exist. With the cooperation of all stakeholders, we have the capacity to end terrorism.

‘Getting foreign support in terms of equipment will be good but not deployment of soldiers. It may complicate the situation and lead to a greater problem.

‘The political, religious, and community leaders must be united in their resolve to protect the country. What Tinubu needs at this time is the support of all Nigerians,’ Oyintiloye said.

The Zamfara State Government has distributed cholera intervention drugs and medical consumables across the state.

The cholera intervention drugs aimed at containing the spread of the disease’s across the 14 Local Government Areas (LGAs) of the

State.

The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Nafisa Muhammad Maradun flag-off the distribution at the Drugs and Medical Consumable Agency (DMCA) Store, Samaru Gusau.

Dr. Maradun said the distribution represented the state government’s swift and timely response to the cholera outbreak, stressing that all items were provided free of charge and warned medical personnel against diversion or extortion of the patients. Dr. Nafisa also tasked the LGA teams to ensure judicious utilization of the commodities and issued a strong warning.

‘Anyone caught selling the drugs would face the full wrath of the law. The Health Commissioner warned.

She further urged health workers to be transparent and accountable, and also called on the members of the community to report any observed misconduct related to the misuse or diversion of the supplies.

The Executive Secretary of the Zamfara State Drugs and Medical Consumable Agency (DMCA), Pharmacist Sani Bello, expressed deep appreciation to the state governor.

‘We thank His Excellency, Governor Dr. Dauda Lawal, for his kindness and timely gesture,’ Pharmacist Bello said.

‘His commitment to the health and well-being of the people of Zamfara is evident in the prompt provision of these life-saving drugs and consumables.’

Hon. Bello Jabaka, Chairman of the Maru Local Government Area, commended the Health Commissioner for her commitment and echoed the appreciation for Governor Lawal’s continuous support to the state’s residents.

He assured that the drugs and medical supplies, which include items such as Ringer’s lactate, Dextrose saline, Normal Saline, cannula, I.V.F. giving sets, syringes, plasters, and antibiotics, would be distributed as planned and used judiciously to combat cholera in all affected areas.

Nollywood actress Regina Daniels has vowed to rebuild her image after a public fallout with her estranged husband, Senator Ned Nwoko.

In a series of Instagram posts on Sunday, Daniels alleged that the Delta North senator manipulated her and tried to control her life, describing the controversy around their separation as an attempt to tarnish her name.

Her comments came after Nwoko made allegations concerning her and her family on social media.

Reacting, Daniels denied the claims and expressed regret over the breakdown of their relationship. ‘My name is ruined for now, but I will rewrite my story. That narrative will be dead and gone,’ the actress wrote.

She also hinted at plans to pursue legal action, saying she was determined to ‘fight’ to restore her dignity.

As of the time of filing this report, Senator Nwoko had not responded publicly to the latest statements.

Gunmen suspected to be bandits have reportedly killed an elderly woman, identified as Mrs Elizabeth Olorunshola, in Ilafin-Isanlu community, Yagba East Local Government Area of Kogi State.

The attack, which occured on Saturday night when the armed men abducted the woman along the Ilafin-Isanlu road in the community, also left another person injured.

Sources within the community revealed that the bandits allegedly shot Mrs. Olorunshola after realising that she was too weak to continue walking through the forest toward their hideout.

The bodies of the kidnapped woman and the wounded man were discovered in the bush on Sunday, heightening fear among the residents of the area, with many relocating to safer communities. Residents described the atmosphere in Ilafin-Isanlu as one of deep mourning and terror, with many saying, ‘the community is under siege.’

The President of the Ilafin Development Association (IDA), Mr. Idowu Awe, described the incident as ‘very sad and disheartening.’

In a statemen, Awe said, ‘Today, we had a terrible and disturbing experience that led to the loss of one of our great daughters and mother – Mrs Elizabeth Olorunshola. We commensurate with the Olorunsholas’ Family in particular and Ilafin community as a whole.

‘This challenge has received the attention of our elders and leaders. Discussions are ongoing as to what we can do to secure our community.’

Similarly, the Executive Chairman of Yagba East Local Government Area, Hon. (Dr.) Joshua Dare Monday, described the incident as heartbreaking, assuring that the perpetrators would not go unpunished.

He added that the council, in collaboration with security agencies, had intensified efforts to strengthen surveillance and restore calm across communities affected by banditry.

‘A tragic attack occurred last night, resulting in the abduction and subsequent killing of a woman, while another person sustained gunshot injuries,’ he said.

Member representing Yagba East-West/Mopamuro Federal Constituency, Rt. Hon. Leke Abejide, also condemned the attack.

Extending condolences to the family and affected communities, he vowed that the kidnappers and their informants would be brought to justice.

‘We will not relent until our communities and forests are safe from perpetrators who target innocent citizens,’ Abejide said.

Banditry has reportedly increased in nearby communities including Odogbe, Iye, Ilotin, Irunda-Ile, and Idofin in Isanlu, leading to loss of lives and property in recent times.

The Kogi State Police Command’s spokesperson, CSP William Aya, did not respond to calls or messages regarding the incident at the time of filing this report.

The Lagos State Chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has advised Peter Obi, the 2023 Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party, to have a rethink about his 2027 presidential ambition.

The party’s spokesperson, Mr Seye Oladejo, gave the advice in a statement on Sunday in Lagos.

He was reacting to Labour Party’s performance in Saturday’s governorship election in Anambra.

Oladejo said the outcome of the election reflected a decline in the Labour Party’s grassroots support and his Obedient Movement.

He said the result, especially in Obi’s polling unit, showed that LP structure in his base was crumbling.

According to him, social media popularity cannot replace consistent political organisation and voter engagement.

‘The Anambra election offers important lessons on structure and performance,’ Oladejo said.

He said while President Bola Tinubu was focused on governance and reforms, others should build capacity.

Oladejo said APC’s showing in Anambra demonstrated increasing public confidence in the party’s leadership.

He noted that good governance and delivery remained the strongest tools for political success.

Oladejo commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for conducting a peaceful and transparent election.

He also praised security agencies for maintaining order throughout the voting process.

Oladejo said the result reaffirmed that electoral victories are earned through planning and performance.

He advised political actors to engage citizens constructively and strengthen their grassroots connections.

The APC spokesman said consistent delivery at the local level would enhance public trust.

Oladejo urged political leaders to draw lessons from Anambra to improve future elections.

He said the APC remained committed to service, development, and national unity

Oladejo added that performance and structure would continue to define electoral outcomes in Nigeria.

He congratulated APC members and supporters in Anambra for their commitment and resilience.

Oladejo said the Lagos APC shared in the optimism of a stronger democratic process.

He encouraged all parties to prioritise peaceful campaigns and credible electoral participation.

Oladejo said democracy grows when politicians respect the will of the people.

He said the Anambra poll outcome should inspire renewed focus on issue-based politics.

The Lagos APC, he said, would continue to support policies promoting development and inclusion.

Oladejo said the party’s goal remained to deliver good governance across all levels.

He urged citizens to remain engaged and support democratic institutions.

Oladejo expressed optimism that the party would continue to expand its reach nationwide. (NAN)

Nollywood veteran, Georgina Onuoha, has asked Regina Daniels to take matters relating to her marital crisis off social media.

The actress has made a series of social media post on her marriage in the last three weeks.

Trouble began when she was seen in a video accusing Senator Ned Nwoko, her estranged husband, of violence.

He later denied the accusation, attributing the rift between them to her alleged use of drugs. He blamed her brother and some other acquittances of his wife for supplying her drugs, saying such acts have frustrated his move to rehabilitate her.

In a series of social media posts, the senator claimed that each time his wife begins therapy, her brother or acquittances disrupt the process by sneaking in and giving her access to what doctors advised against.

Regina has since denied the allegation, claiming he was out to tarnish her image.

Weighing in via a video on Sunday, Onuoha emphatically said: ‘Enough of this social media drama’.

‘All of you should stand down. Enough of this social media posting and talking. Regina Daniels, if for the six years of being married to this man you don’t have connections, it raises some questions. Take your case to court.

‘So, I will beg your family to please stop the social media stuff. Then get a PR team to do that for you and follow this matter the right way. Enough of personal attacks; I know the pain. You want to get justice against a man who has abused you and your family. You made the choice to marry your grandfather but you should not die because of that.

‘That being said enough of the social media drama. Take your case to the Senators’ Wives Association, let them plead your case. Marriage is not by force. And I tell you now, I am your mother’s agemate, do not return to that house if you don’t feel safe. Don’t let anybody use children against you, the children will be fine. So, please, go get help. Use the proper channel, get the authorities. I know this is painful but enough of the whole drama. Your mental health is important.’

Confusion has trailed reports of an alleged stabbing of Barau FC player, Nana Abraham, during a Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) match against Katsina United.

The incident reportedly occurred on Saturday at the Muhammadu Dikko Stadium in Katsina.

Barau FC said Abraham was attacked after the team equalised in the 69th minute of the game which ended 1-1.

The club’s media director, Ahmad Gwale, claimed the player was stabbed in the neck by a pitch invader shortly after the team equalised. Gwale said the attacker came from either the Katsina United bench or among the home supporters.

He said the assailant struck Abraham with what he described as ‘something like a sharp object,’ forcing the game to be temporarily halted.

Images circulating online show the player bleeding around the neck while being attended to by teammates and medical officials.

Gwale confirmed that Abraham was substituted after the attack and is currently receiving medical treatment.

According to him, the assault created tension within the stadium, though the match later resumed under tight security.

The club further confirmed the attack in a post on its official X (formerly Twitter) handle.

However, Katsina United have dismissed the claims, insisting that no fan or club official attacked any Barau FC player during the game.

In a statement, the club said the reports ‘do not reflect what truly transpired,’ adding that the atmosphere only became tense due to contentious officiating decisions.

The club explained that while emotions ran high, the situation was ‘managed within the confines of order and security.’

‘Katsina United remains committed to professionalism, discipline, and fair play both on and off the field,’ the statement read.

The club accused Barau FC of amplifying a ‘false narrative’ and said it would leave the matter for the League Management Body to investigate.

Daily Trust reports that the latest incident follows a recent pattern of violence in the NPFL.

Last month, there was an attack on players and officials during a match at the Sani Abacha Stadium in Kano, where fans of Kano Pillars assaulted players and match officials after a late equaliser by Shooting Stars (3SC) of Ibadan.

Following that incident, the NPFL slammed ?9.5 million in fines on Kano Pillars, deducted three points and three goals, and indefinitely closed the stadium.

Prior to the Kano incident, Vincent Temitope, Plateau United striker, was also stabbed in the neck by an angry fan at the Lafia City stadium in Nasarawa.