Category: PM News

By Salisu Sani-Idris

Vice President Kashim Shettima on Thursday said President Bola Tinubu had demonstrated the ability to pull Nigeria out of the economic and social morass it had been enmeshed in and therefore, should be supported for second term.

The Vice President said this when he submitted Bola Tinubu’s nomination and expression of interest forms to the national officers of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Shettima, who submitted the forms at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Conference Centre, Abuja, urged APC governors, members of the National Assembly to support the President’s candidature.

Shettima relied on the positive impact of the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Tinubu’s administration as the rallying call to give the President full backing to actualise his bid for a second term.

“We are here as Nigerians, and as members of the APC, to submit this very priceless nomination form of our dear President and leader.

“His Excellency, Bola Tinubu, as he seeks to lead us for another four-year term.

“Through thick and thin, Tinubu has proved his mettle and has shown the world that his capacity and resolve to pull the nation out of the woods remain unfazed.

“Indeed, the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr President has reflected on many successes of this administration.

“The socio-economic impacts have been phenomenal in pushing out positive results, ” Shettima said.

According to him, Tinubu has courageously steered the ship of state through choppy seas.

Shettima added that even though some of the decisions taken by the Tinubu’s administration seemed difficult, they were necessary to stabilise Nigeria’s economy and secure the nation’s future.

“His Excellency, President Bola Tinubu, has delivered on the mandate of renewal, stability, and national rebirth.

“The storms of the past years have not diminished him; they have made a fine sailor out of him.

“He has steered this ship through turbulent waters with courage, taking difficult but necessary decisions to stabilise the economy, restore confidence, and prepare Nigeria for a more sustainable future.

“Hence our support and reason for rallying round him,” the VP said.

According to him, every citizen has a role to play in a democracy. It beckons on us all to, as a matter of sacrifice and contribution, protect the hope of Nigeria.

“On behalf of our great party, I ask all Nigerians to support this nomination and, by the special grace of God, the candidacy of President Bola Tinubu in 2027 is victorious.”

The Speaker, House of Representatives, Rep. Tajudeen Abbas, applauded Tinubu’s leadership at a difficult time in Nigeria’s history.

Abbas assured of better days and a brighter future with the President at the helm of the nation’s affairs.

He said Tinubu’s courageous decisions and bold reforms had put the country on the path of recovery, prosperity and progress.

According to him, Tinubu’s reform justifies his reelection for a second term.

The National Chairman of APC, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, said the performances of Tinubu and APC’s governors were enough justification for the President’s re-election.

According to him, the party has done enough across different sectors of the economy to justify the President’s second term.

He said the endorsement of the President for a second term by the National Working Committee of the party was premised on his sterling performance in critical sectors.

The Chairman, Progressives Governors Forum, Gov. Hope Uzodinma of Imo, said the party’s unanimous support for Tinubu was evident in the presence of majority of the governors present at the event.

He noted that the President’s leadership qualities and performance since he assumed office had positively impacted the party’s majority among state governors and the legislature.

Uzodinma assured that the progressive governors would work assiduously for President’s re-election to enable him complete the good works he has started. (NAN)

By Desmond Ejibas

Five alleged operatives of an illegal security outfit operating with the name, Civilian Joint Force have been arrested by the police in Saakpenwa community, Tai Local Government Area of Rivers State.

The suspects were arrested in an operation conducted on Wednesday following the discovery of the illegal security outfit by operatives of the State Intelligence Department of Rivers Police Command.

Rivers Police Command spokesperson, ASP Blessing Agabe revealed this to journalists in Port Harcourt on Friday.

She stated that during the raid, three locally fabricated pump-action rifles were recovered from the illegal security group.

“Preliminary investigation has revealed that the group is operating unlawfully under the false pretext of providing security services,” she said.

Agabe stressed that there was no recognised and authorised security outfit known as “Civilian Joint Taskforce” under the Nigeria Police Force or any government agency in the state.

She stated that civilians were not permitted by law to possess or operate firearms without proper authorisation.

The police spokesperson warned that individuals or groups engaging in illegal security activities or unlawful possession of firearms would be dealt with in accordance with the law.

“Investigations are ongoing to uncover the full extent of the group’s activities, and identify their collaborators,” she said.

Agabe said that the Commissioner of Police, CP Olugbenga Adepoju, had reaffirmed the command’s commitment to intelligence-led policing, and the protection of lives and property.

She said urged the residents of Rivers to remain vigilant and provide credible information to security agencies in order to effectively combat crime in the state.

(NAN)

President Bola Tinubu has described Major General Adeniyi Tajudeen Olanrewaju (Rtd) as a distinguished patriot, statesman, and elder statesman.

The President said this in an 80th birthday message he personally signed on Friday to celebrate the retired General.

In the statement released by his special adviser on media and publicity, the President said: Today, I join family, friends, associates, and the entire Nigerian military community in celebrating Major General Adeniyi Tajudeen Olanrewaju (Rtd), a distinguished patriot, statesman, and elder statesman, as he marks his 80th birthday.

“General Olanrewaju’s life has been one of uncommon service, courage, sacrifice, and enduring commitment to the Nigerian nation. From his early years as one of the pioneering Lagos indigenes trained at the Nigerian Defence Academy following the creation of Lagos State, to his meritorious rise through the ranks of the Nigerian Army, he distinguished himself as a brilliant officer, strategic thinker, and disciplined patriot.

“His service record remains a source of pride and inspiration. He served gallantly during the Nigerian Civil War, underwent advanced military training in the United Kingdom, the United States, and India, and went on to hold several strategic command and leadership positions, including Commander of the Corps of Artillery, General Officer Commanding the 3rd Armoured Division, and a member of the Provisional Ruling Council.

“His subsequent service as Minister of Communications contributed significantly to the early foundations of the deregulation and modernisation of Nigeria’s telecommunications sector.

“Beyond his accomplishments in uniform and public office, General Olanrewaju’s life story is also one of resilience, faith, and perseverance. Despite difficult moments during his national service, he remained steadfast, dignified, and committed to humanity and to serving the downtrodden. His eventual pardon and restoration stand as a testament to the enduring value of justice, reconciliation, and national healing.

“As he celebrates this remarkable milestone, I salute his patriotism, his contributions to national development, and his steadfast dedication to Nigeria over several decades.

“On behalf of the Government and people of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, I congratulate Major General Adeniyi Tajudeen Olanrewaju (Rtd) on his 80th birthday and pray that Almighty Allah will grant him continued good health, peace, strength, and many more years of fulfilment with his family and loved ones.

Prominent politician, Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, has declared that Governor Seyi Makinde and his political structure, popularly known as “Team Seyi Makinde,” will secure a sweeping victory across all elective positions in Oyo State in the 2027 general elections.

“We will take all political positions in Oyo State without leaving any behind in 2027,” Ajadi stated emphatically.

He revealed that PDP leaders in the state have already intensified strategic consultations aimed at consolidating unity and strengthening the party’s dominance ahead of the elections.

According to him, key stakeholders, including Governor Makinde and the state party leadership, recently held a closed-door meeting to fine-tune the party’s direction.

Ajadi disclosed that during the meeting, party leaders unanimously urged him to contest for the Oyo Central Senatorial seat instead of pursuing his gubernatorial ambition.

He explained that the leaders considered his experience, grassroots appeal, and political exposure as critical assets that would strengthen representation for Oyo Central at the National Assembly.

“They told me the Senate offers a strategic platform where I can contribute meaningfully to the development of Oyo State and Nigeria through effective lawmaking and quality representation,” he said.

Ajadi added that the leaders believe his passion for youth empowerment, entrepreneurship, education, industrial growth, and infrastructural development would resonate more strongly at the federal level.

“They emphasised that Oyo State needs vibrant and experienced voices in the National Assembly who can attract federal presence and influence policies that directly benefit the people,” he noted.

He stressed that party leaders prioritised unity and collective sacrifice as key strategies for winning the 2027 elections.

“Politics demands service, loyalty, and strategic planning. The leaders made it clear that the party’s interest and the development of Oyo State must come first,” Ajadi said.

However, in a surprising twist, Ajadi announced that he has officially resigned from the PDP and will pursue his senatorial ambition under a different political platform.

“I have moved on politically, and consultations are ongoing with leaders and supporters. At the appropriate time, Nigerians and the good people of Oyo State will know the platform I will use to actualise my ambition,” he stated.

Sources within the PDP revealed that the earlier consensus arrangement aimed to minimise internal conflicts, promote unity among aspirants, and position the party strongly across the three senatorial districts.

According to party insiders, the proposed consensus candidates included Ajadi for Oyo Central, Adedeji Stanley Olajide for Oyo South, and Shina Abiola Peller for Oyo North, while former Commissioner for Finance, Bimbo Adekanmbi, is being considered for the governorship ticket.

Ajadi praised Governor Makinde’s administration, stating that its achievements have laid a solid foundation for continued political success in the state.

“Our goal is not just to win elections but to sustain growth, empower young people, support businesses, and ensure quality governance reaches every part of Oyo State,” Ajadi added.

Political observers say Ajadi’s growing grassroots influence and strong connection with young people continue to boost his relevance in Oyo State politics.

By Taiye Agbaje

There was drama as Omoyele Sowore, publisher of Sahara Reporters accused judge of bias after he was ordered to open his defence in the suit filed against him by the Department of State Services (DSS) for allegedly making false claims against the person of President Bola Tinubu.

Sowore made the allegation after the Federal High Court in Abuja presided over Justice Mohammed Umar dismissed his no case submission.

Sowore is the sole defendant in the case in the cyberbullying trial.

DSS had dragged Sowore to court over a post he made on his “X” and Facebook accounts, in which he allegedly referred to the president as “a criminal.”

But at the conclusion of the prosecution’s case, rather than proceeding to conduct his defence, Sowore opted to make a no-case submission.

Sowore, through his lawyer, Marshall Abubakar, argued among others, that no prima facie case was made against him to warrant his being called upon to enter a defence.

Delivering the ruling on Friday, Justice Umar dismissed Sowore’s no-case submission and upheld the argument by lawyer to the DSS, Akinlolu Kehinde, SAN, that a prima facie case had been established against him to warrant his being called upon to enter a defence.

The judge, therefore, ordered him to enter his defence against the case already made out against him by the prosecution.

Shortly after the ruling, and following an oral application by Sowore’s lawyer, Abubakar, the judge granted audience to the defendant.

While addressing the court, Sowore accused the judge of being bias, alleged that the judge humiliated his lawyer by ordering him to kneel down during one of the court’s sittings.

Sowore said he was not sure he would get justice in the court and asked the judge to recuse himself from the case.

Marshall, who spoke afterwards, re-echoed what his client said and asked the judge to recuse himself.

Responding, the prosecuting lawyer, Kehinde, disagreed with the defence oral application, arguing that such plea could only be made via a formal written application.

Ruling, Justice Umar ordered Abubakar to file a formal application, which he must serve on the prosecution, stating reasons why the judge should recuse himself from the case.

The judge subsequently adjourned the matter until May 19 for hearing.

(NAN)

Honourable Obi Aguocha, a member of the House of Representatives representing the Ikwuano/Umuahia Federal Constituency, has warned that the ongoing fragmentation within the opposition parties could give the incumbent All Progressives Congress (APC) an undue advantage ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Speaking in an interview, Aguocha, a prominent figure within the Labour Party (LP), pointed out that the failure of opposition figures to unite after the 2023 elections has weakened their collective political strength, making them more vulnerable to the ruling APC.

“The opposition is at a disadvantage now,” Aguocha stated, emphasizing that the inability of key political players to stay united has made it harder to present a solid challenge to the APC in the upcoming elections. “I would have wished that when they all went into ADC as a political family, they would have found common ground to accommodate each other. But unfortunately, that didn’t happen,” he added.

Aguocha, who remains a key player in the LP, also expressed disappointment over the growing political fragmentation, particularly the defections of prominent politicians like Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to the New Democratic Congress (NDC). He suggested that these political moves, while they may reflect personal ambitions, have ultimately weakened the broader opposition bloc.

“Moving about to different political platforms now they are more disadvantaged than staying together,” Aguocha remarked, underlining the missed opportunity for opposition parties to rally around a single presidential candidate for 2027.

When asked about the potential for a renewed opposition alliance ahead of the 2027 elections, Aguocha responded firmly: “I don’t think so. The Obidients have moved on, and Kwankwasiyya has moved on with Obi and Kwankwaso. Those staying with Atiku are comfortable where they are.”

Despite these divisions, Aguocha believes that the LP still has a chance to build momentum ahead of the 2027 elections. He pointed to the success of Governor Alex Otti in Abia State, describing him as a model of good governance, transparency, and accountability. According to Aguocha, Otti’s performance has set a new standard for what can be achieved through effective leadership, and this has boosted the LP’s credibility.

Humphrey Abah, a chieftain of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and former Minister of Police Affairs, has lashed out at the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, for his interpretation of court judgments regarding the ongoing leadership crisis within the party.

Responding to Wike’s recent statements about the PDP’s leadership structure, Abah accused the FCT Minister of selectively interpreting the Supreme Court ruling to suit his position, suggesting that the PDP should focus on organizing for electoral success, rather than getting bogged down by internal disputes.

Wike had previously claimed that the Supreme Court’s judgment had ended the leadership crisis within the PDP, insisting that the ruling had settled the dispute over the party’s legitimate leadership. In contrast, Abah argued that Wike’s reading of the judgment was one-sided and politically motivated.

“Wike is selectively reading those judgments to suit his position. We are reading holistically, we are not selecting,” Abah stated in an interview. He emphasized that the PDP remains committed to legal and constitutional processes, choosing not to engage in confrontations but rather following due process to resolve its issues.

Abah maintained that the PDP’s focus should be on winning the 2027 elections and not on perpetuating internal conflicts. He stressed that the party’s priorities must remain clear: strengthen its structure, ensure proper organization, and prepare for the challenges of the upcoming elections.

“Rather than get distracted by personal disputes, our energy should be spent on how to organize and win elections,” Abah said, dismissing the ongoing disputes within the party as unnecessary distractions.

On the issue of the PDP’s leadership, Abah reiterated that the party’s organizational strength was rooted in its constitutional processes, pointing out that it had several statutory bodies, such as the National Executive Committee (NEC) and the Board of Trustees (BoT), that had the authority to manage party affairs.

In a further rebuke to Wike, Abah argued that the ongoing tensions within the party should be resolved through legal channels, not through public confrontations or political maneuvers.

.. Three hotels in Delta, Abuja, multi-billion assets linked to syndicate

By Ayorinde Oluokun

A Nigerian billionaire international drug baron identified as Amadi Simon has been arrested in Switzerland in a coordinated operation involving the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Lagos Country Office, and law enforcement partners from Switzerland, France, and Greece.

His alleged his co-conspirators identified as 34-year-old Jecinta Amara Ikechi and 28-year-old Blessing Ngozi Amadi were also arrested in Anambra and Delta states respectively.

Femi Babafemi, Director, Media and Advocacy, NDLEA revealed the arrests in s atatement issued in Abuja on Thursday.

Babafemi said the Simon was arrested on Tuesday 28th April 2026 following months of intelligence and investigations across multiple jurisdictions linking him to the laundering of hundreds of billions of Naira in proceeds of drug and financial crimes across Europe and Nigeria.

He added that in addition to the arrests, the NDLEA, in collaboration with its international law enforcement partners, has also traced multi-billion assets linked to Amadi’s transnational criminal network in Nigeria and abroad.

The NDLEA Spokesperson said the operations of Amadi in Nigeria included a complex scheme of front and shell companies; pass-throughs and delegates; and the use of numerous traditional and cryptocurrency accounts to conceal and launder illicit funds.

Babafemi said Jovi Hotel at 1 Isiayei Street GRA Phase1, Asaba, Delta State; Jovi Hotel and Suites at 4 Orikeze by Deeper Life Road, Agbor, Delta State as well as Jovi Apartment at Jamieson Court Mabushi, Abuja which were linked to Amadi Simon as proceeds of illicit drug funds have also been impounded,

He added that while several bank accounts and crypto currency addresses used by the Amadi-led cartel to conceal hundreds of billions of illicit funds have also been identified and blocked.

Speaking on the coordinated efforts of the NDLEA, the United States DEA, and other international partners, Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the Agency, Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd) said the success of the multi-country and multi-year operations has sent a clear message that the NDLEA maintains “a zero-tolerance policy toward crimes that jeopardize the safety of the Nigerian people, the integrity of our national reputation, and the stability of our economy.”

He expressed gratitude for the support received from the US-DEA to crack and dismantle Amadi’s transnational criminal network, adding that the U.S. Mission to Nigeria has continued to partner with the Agency to combat narcotics trafficking through training in intelligence, evidence collection, case management, and tactical operations as well as the provision of critical equipment. He assured that NDLEA will continue to expand its cooperation with the United States and other international partners.

“The NDLEA remains relentless in its pursuit of those involved in narcotics trafficking and associated financial crimes, regardless of where they attempt to hide. Built upon a foundation of strategic partnership, unwavering integrity, and dedicated professionalism, the NDLEA is committed to ensuring that Nigeria is neither a haven for drug traffickers who profit from illicit substances nor a sanctuary for their criminal proceeds”, Marwa stated.

Controversy has erupted around former BBNaija star Isabella George, after an explicit video allegedly featuring her surfaced online.

The video, which is rapidly circulating on various social media platforms, shows the 2025 season contestant in a compromising position, sparking outrage among fans and followers alike.

The Rivers State native, who gained attention during her time on the reality show for her bold and confident personality, has not publicly addressed the matter or issued a statement regarding the video’s authenticity. As the footage continues to spread, social media users have expressed concern, particularly over the potential impact on her personal life and her young child.

One fan, @FloxyBaee, tweeted:”Kaii, my only pity and concern is towards her son. No child will want to see such things about their mother online.” Another user, @StelxyG, wrote:”That Isabella BBNaija masturbation video flying around is so disgusting. Please stop sharing it.”

While the alleged video has garnered significant attention, some supporters of the former housemate have insisted that it is old content, claiming the material predates her time in the BBNaija house.

They also accuse rival fan bases of using the footage as a weapon to target the reality star amid ongoing online debates.

This latest controversy follows Isabella’s memorable moments on BBNaija, including her intimate encounter with fellow housemate Kayikunmi during a Saturday night party in August 2025. The pair’s make-out session, which aired live, drew significant public interest and sparked widespread discussion at the time.

While the leaked video continues to dominate social media, Isabella has yet to address the allegations publicly. As is customary in such situations, the reality star’s silence has only fueled speculation, with fans demanding clarity on the issue.

By Jethro Ibileke

A member of the Federal House of Representatives, in Edo State, Esosa lyawe, has dumped the All Progressives Congress (APC), for the Nigeria Democratic Party (NDC).

Iyawe was elected to represent Oredo Federal Constituency on the platform of Labour Party in the 2023.

He, however, defected to the APC on December 5, 2024.

He announced his latest defection in a letter dated May 6, 2026, and addressed to ward 1, Oredo Local Government Area of the APC.

He attributed his resignation to the irreconcilable difference between him and the State Governor, Monday Okpebholo.

Iyawe added that he has formally withdrawn his expression of interest to contest for the position of House of Representatives in the 2027 general elections on the platform of APC, adding that his decision takes immediate effect.

“I write to formally notify you that I hereby withdraw my expression of interest to contest for the position of House of Representatives in the 2027 general elections and to resign from the All Progressives Congress (APC), effective immediately.

“This regrettable decision has been made after careful reflection and consideration. I am grateful for the opportunity to have been associated with the party and for the experiences gained during my membership.

“However, due to personal and political reasons, I have decided to withdraw my membership and align myself with another political platform, the Nigeria Democratic Party (NDC). I believe this move is in line with my current convictions and aspirations.

“It is imperative to state that this decision is a result of the irreconcilable difference between me and my Governor His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo, the Governor of Edo State.

“I kindly request that my resignation be duly noted in your records and INEC records and that I be relieved of all rights, responsibilities, and obligations associated with membership in the party,” he wrote.