Category: PM News

By Linda Ogbonna

Some workers in Lagos have decried rising fuel prices, saying the increases have deepened economic hardship and sharply raised living costs.

The workers spoke on Friday as Nigerians joined the global community to mark the United Nations International Workers’ Day.

This year’s Workers’ Day theme is ‘Insecurity, Poverty Bane of Decent Work.’

The respondents, in separate interviews, urged federal and Lagos State authorities to address worsening economic conditions before the 2027 elections.

They said rising petrol prices had pushed up transport fares, food prices, housing costs and other basic expenses.

A businesswoman in Ikeja, Mrs Rose Adams, said businesses were under severe pressure from rising operating costs.

“Many entrepreneurs are struggling to stay afloat because of the economic situation,” Adams said.

She urged governments to communicate policies clearly and implement measures that would bring relief to citizens.

Mr Jide Bane, a salesman in Ajah, described the economic situation as deeply troubling.

“It is painful that a resource-rich country still battles high energy costs and poor living conditions,” Bane said.

He said transport costs had surged, food prices had risen, and workers’ salaries remained unchanged.

Bane called for sustainable economic reforms to improve citizens’ welfare and restore stability.

Mrs Grace Ngbekem said fuel price increases had affected every sector of the economy.

“Once fuel prices rise, everything rises, including transport, food and even house rent,” she said.

Mrs Nkechi Nwosu, a federal civil servant, said the current minimum wage no longer reflected economic realities.

“School fees, food and rent have all increased. The minimum wage is no longer enough,” Nwosu said.

She also called for inclusive voter registration to ensure broader participation in the electoral process.

A lawyer, Mr Johnson Rapheal, said rising petrol prices had triggered increases in goods and essential services.

“Life is becoming increasingly difficult for the average Nigerian worker,” Rapheal said.

He urged government to consider rent controls, lower building material costs and improved security nationwide.

Rapheal warned that unresolved economic challenges could discourage voter participation in the 2027 general elections.

(NAN)

By Emmanuel Antswen

The Benue State Government has been thrown into mourning following sudden death of its Head of Service, Dr Agbogbo Ode.

The Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Mrs Serumun Aber, confirmed the death of Agbogbo this in a statement in Makurdi on Saturday.

She said the Head of Service died in the early hours of Saturday after a brief illness.

“It is with deep sadness and regret that the Benue State Government announces the death of Dr Agbogbo Ode, the Head of Service of Benue State.

“His sudden demise occurred on Saturday, May 2, 2026, after a brief illness.

“Dr Ode was an impeccable technocrat and a highly respected authority in the public service. His passing represents a huge loss to the state.

“His credibility, hard work, brilliance, and immense contributions to the state civil service will forever be remembered,” she said.

Aber added that the state government, on behalf of the people of Benue, extended its condolences to the family, friends, associates, and the entire civil service.

She also prayed for the repose of his soul. (NAN)

Former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, has revealed that supporters of Peter Obi, have been attacking him online, but he deliberately refuses to respond.

Amaechi, who spoke at a political town hall in Lagos organised by his loyalists under the African Democratic Congress (ADC) movement, said his silence is a strategic choice aimed at preserving unity within the opposition.

“My people don’t fight. Have you seen any Amaechi person fighting on social media? It is between Atiku people and the Obi people. And Obi people are abusing me; we never reply,” he said in a video shared by his campaign group.

He added that his camp avoids trading insults because they are focused on a bigger political goal.

“It’s not because we don’t know English or we cannot reply. The reason we don’t reply is that we always want peace.”

In what appears to be a subtle dig at the growing friction among opposition supporters, Amaechi warned that internal attacks could cost them victory in the next election cycle.

“There are things you say when you want to win, because it becomes difficult to bring everybody together. Because we know we will win, we’re not abusing everybody, so we can bring everyone together,” he said.Amaechi, who is now in the ADC after leaving the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), is eyeing the party’s 2027 presidential ticket — a race that could pit him against both Peter Obi and former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar.

Throwing down the gauntlet, he challenged Nigerians to compare his track record with that of his rivals.

“Compare me to Peter Obi, we were governors at the same time. If he’s a better governor, please choose him,” he said.”Compare my role as governor and minister with what Atiku did as vice-president. If he’s a better person, choose him.”

Amaechi also painted himself as a hands-on leader, insisting he was deeply involved in infrastructure projects during his time in office.

“When you are sleeping, I’m running on this track making sure the job was done. I wasn’t sitting in my office writing memos,” he said.

Describing himself as “a practical man,” he claimed to understand the everyday struggles of Nigerians better than elite politicians.

“I eat in the same restaurants people eat. I don’t go to all these big men’s restaurants,” he added.

But beyond personal ambition, Amaechi’s message was clear: opposition infighting could hand President Bola Tinubu an easy path to victory.

“If you cause this kind of friction, it will be difficult to come together to defeat Tinubu. Focus on defeating Tinubu,” he warned.He also cautioned that the tone set by supporters can shape political alliances, stressing that sustained hostility could make post-primary unity difficult within the ADC.

By Naomi Sharang

Former governorship candidate in Adamawa, Sen. Aisha Dahiru popularly known as Binani, has said her decision to defect from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) to the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) was collective will of her supporters and her alignment with the party’s ideals of structured, policy-driven governance.

Binani who represented Adamawa Central Senatorial District in the 9th Assembly said this during her formal reception into the party by the National leader, Sen. Seriake Dickson on Friday.

According to her, she decided to move to the NDC after a careful study of the party’s constitution.

“The constitution of the NDC which reflects a strong commitment to governance anchored on clear policies and internal democracy,” she said.

She dismissed criticisms surrounding her recent political movements, noting that politics is dynamic and often shaped by prevailing circumstances.

“Some may point out that just eight or nine months ago, I was in another party. Let me say clearly: I will never condemn where I came from.

“Politics is dynamic and often local in nature, and decisions are made based on prevailing realities”.

Binani said she holds no resentment toward her former political platform, emphasising that her decisions have always been guided by the interests of her supporters.

She revealed that her supporters played a decisive role in her defection, stating that many had already joined the NDC and established a strong presence in Adamawa before she formally made the move.

Binani added that the state now boasts of one of the highest numbers of registered members in the party.

“Politics is not a one-man journey. It is the people who drive the process and sustain it. Everything I have achieved is because of their support,” she said.

Binani expressed gratitude to the National Working Committee (NWC) of the NDC for welcoming her and pledged to contribute meaningfully to the growth of the party at both state and national levels.

She stressed the need for fairness, equity, justice, transparency, and strengthened internal democracy as key principles for the party’s success.

In his remarks, Dickson called on Nigerian women and youths to join the NDC, describing them as the backbone of the nation’s democracy.

He criticised other political parties for sidelining women after elections and urged them to embrace the NDC as a platform that prioritises inclusion and participation.

The former Gov. of Bayelsa also encouraged political actors dissatisfied with their current parties to join the NDC, noting that the Nigerian constitution guarantees freedom of political association.

According to him, the party represents a credible alternative capable of delivering results.

National Chairman of NDC, Sen. Moses Cleopas, described the party as a party rooted in ideology, unity and inclusiveness, highlighting its commitment to affirmative action and youth participation.

He formally presented Dahiru with her membership card, assuring her of respect and support within the party.

Also speaking, the party’s North-East Vice Chairman, Danlami Arabs described Binani’s emergence as part of a broader historical movement advancing women’s leadership in northern Nigeria.

The party’s National Women Leader, Dudu Manuga, hailed Binani as a symbol of strength and a rallying point for greater female participation in politics.

“I am especially proud–prouder than ever–that we are not just welcoming her as a member, but as a flag bearer, a woman who is breaking barriers and shattering ceilings”.(NAN)

By Ayorinde Oluokun

The Nigerian Army has dismissed a soldier identified as Umar Jamiu for allegedly circulating what it described as false social media posts about poor feeding of troops involved in battle against terrorists in Northeast Nigeria.

The sack of the soldier, a private, was confirmed in a statement by the spokesperson of Headquarters Theatre Command, Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba on Saturday.

According to the statement, the soldier was sacked after it was confirmed that his social media publications alleging poor feeding of troops within the Theatre of Operation was false.

Uba said the soldier was taken through disciplinary measures in line with the provisions of the Armed Forces Act (Cap A20 Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004).

“Sanctions were duly applied to the personnel involved, in order to uphold discipline and preserve the integrity of the Armed Forces, he said.

“The Theatre Command wishes to categorically state that the images and narratives being circulated are misleading and do not reflect the actual feeding arrangements or welfare standards of troops in the North East Theatre”

“For the avoidance of doubt, troops deployed across all formations and locations under Operation HADIN KAI are provided with rations strictly in accordance with approved military feeding scales. These provisions are consistently implemented and, where operational conditions permit, are further enhanced during special periods such as Sallah and Easter celebrations to boost morale and welfare,” Uba said.

The Army further asserted in the statement that the feeding system within the Theatre is structured, accountable, and soldier-driven.

“It is managed through established Food Committees comprising personnel across various ranks, and presided over by. senior non-commissioned officers. This arrangement ensures transparency, participation, and continuous oversight in menu planning, preparation, and distribution of meals, within available logistical resources.

“In the course of the review, a specific incident was identified involving a personnel who deliberately circulated a misleading image of a partially consumed meal, intended to create a false impression of troop feeding conditions. Investigations confirmed that the image did not represent the complete ration issued to the individual at the time.

“The Theatre Command wishes to reassure members of the public that the welfare of troops remains a top priority. While operations in the North East present significant logistical and environmental challenges, consistent efforts are made to ensure that personnel are adequately catered for, even under demanding field conditions.

“Troops are further encouraged to utilise established internal channels for the timely resolution of grievances, rather than resorting to actions capable of misrepresenting operational realities or undermining unit cohesion and morale.

The Army also urged members of the public to disregard unverified content circulating on social media, and to rely on credible and officially verified information.

“The spread of misinformation by individuals or groups seeking attention or financial gain undermines ongoing military operations and the collective national security effort.

“It is therefore important to state that Operation HADIN KAI remains fully committed to its constitutional mandate of restoring lasting peace , security and economic stability in the North East region, with the welfare, discipline, and operational effectiveness of its personnel as core priorities,” Uba said.

By Aminu Abubakar Ma’aruf

Yusuf Buhari, son of former President Muhammadu Buhari, has picked the All Progressives Congress (APC), ticket to contest for the Daura/Sandamu/Mai’adua Federal Constituency seat in the 2027 elections.

Yusuf picked the ticket unopposed after a stakeholders’ meeting held in Katsina on Tuesday, April 28, unanimously adopted him as the party’s candidate.

Zone, Alhaji Ahmed Dangiwa, a former Minister of Housing and Urban Development.

Speaking after Yusuf’s adoption, Mannir Musa, APC Chairman, Mai’adua Local Government, urged party members to accept the outcome in good faith.

“I urge all our people to be obedient and accept the consensus reached by the committee and stakeholders in good faith. We should all work together for the unity and progress of the party and our people,” he said.

He also appealed to Katsina governor Dikko Radda to support aspirants who did not get tickets so that they could continue to serve their people.

Musa urged aspirants offered the tickets through consensus to work for their constituents when elected in the secondary election.

He named other automatic candidates to include Nasir Yahaya for the Daura senatorial seat race, and Mustapha Musa for the Mai’adua constituency in the Katsina State House of Assembly.

Yusuf Buhari, in a remark, thanked party members for the confidence reposed in him and pledged to provide quality representation, if elected.

(NAN)

By Abbas Bamalli

Troops of the 17 Brigade in Katsina have neutralised four suspected terrorists during combat along the TurareYantumaki Road in the state.

This is contained in a statement in Katsina on Saturday by Dr Nasir Mu’azu, Commissioner for International Security and Home Affairs.

He said the operation happened on Friday when the troops came under attack before swiftly repelling the assault.

According to him, the success is a strategic setback for the network of a feared kingpin, Muhammadu Fulani, whose operations have terrorised parts of Matazu, Musawa, Charanchi, and Kankia.

Mu’azu listed items recovered from the scene to include an AK-47 rifle with ammunition, two motorcycles, multiple mobile phones, and cash amounting to 153,400.

“Some of the seized phones contained images of the suspects clad in military gear, now handed over for forensic analysis.

“Preliminary intelligence identified the neutralised suspects as Bishir Holami, Jamilu Baki, Ibrahim Doro, and Abdurraman Maje.

“Figures linked to a string of deadly attacks across Gobirawa, Raddawa, Kuki, and surrounding communities in Dutsinma and Matazu local government areas,” he said.

The Commissioner described the development as a major operational success, underscoring the intensified crackdown on armed groups in the region, adding that the offensive against banditry would continue until peace is fully restored across the state.

He further urged residents to remain vigilant and sustain cooperation with security agencies, as community intelligence continues to play a critical role in ongoing operations.

The commissioner assured that the government would further strengthen support for security forces to ensure that criminal elements are decisively rooted out of Katsina.

(NAN)

Ukrainian heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk has backed Anthony Joshua to defeat Tyson Fury in a potential blockbuster all-British showdown, in what could reshape the heavyweight division.

Usyk, who has shared the ring with both fighters, made the bold call while revealing he has been working closely with Joshua behind the scenes–offering tactical, technical and mental support ahead of his return to the ring.

Joshua is scheduled to fight Kristian Prenga on July 25 in Riyadh, a bout many already see as a warm-up to a long-anticipated clash with Fury later this year.

Speaking on the possible showdown, Usyk didn’t sit on the fence.

“Fury is an unbelievable fighter, very dangerous. But I love how Anthony works now and how he has changed,” he said.Despite describing Fury as a “great friend,” Usyk made his loyalty clear: “I want Anthony to win he deserves it.”

In recent months, Joshua has trained with Usyk in Spain and Ukraine, building what looks like an unlikely alliance between former rivals. According to Usyk, their sessions go beyond punches and drills.”We talk about strategy, boxing skills, psychology. I tell him, ‘Champ, don’t stop,'” he revealed.

For Usyk, Joshua’s upcoming fight is nothing more than “official sparring,” with the real focus being preparation for Fury’s unique fighting style.

Joshua’s journey back hasn’t been smooth. His last fight was a win over Jake Paul, but he stepped away briefly after a tragic car crash that claimed the lives of two of his friends.

Usyk, who has also endured personal loss amid the war in Ukraine, said those experiences have shaped his advice to Joshua.

“God gave you another chance. Don’t stop. Pray, keep working, and move forward,” he said.

Meanwhile, Usyk is preparing to defend his title against Rico Verhoeven in Egypt later this month, but insists he will continue supporting Joshua as the heavyweight drama builds.

If this fight happens, it won’t just be about belts–it will be about redemption, legacy, and who truly runs the heavyweight division.

Napoli and Como played out a frustrating 0-0 draw in Saturday’s Serie A clash, a result that leaves both sides with more questions than answers as the season winds down.

For Como, this was a missed opportunity–plain and simple. Sitting just outside the Champions League places, they needed all three points to pile pressure on Juventus.

Instead, they now trail the Turin giants by two points, and Juventus still have a game in hand. That gap could widen further if results don’t swing in Como’s favour.

Napoli’s situation isn’t any prettier. The defending champions are watching their title hopes fade into the distance, with Inter Milan now firmly in control. Inter are nine points clear and could seal the Scudetto with games to spare.

For Napoli, this draw feels like another quiet surrender in a season that promised much more.

The game itself had flashes of intensity but lacked the final punch.

Como nearly struck early when Anastasios Douvikas rounded goalkeeper Vanja Milinkovi-Savi, only for Napoli defenders to pull off a dramatic goal-line clearance. Napoli responded through Scott McTominay, whose header flew over despite a clear opening.

Chances came and went. Martin Baturina tested Napoli’s resolve, while Milinkovi-Savi stayed alert to deny Assane Diao. Napoli thought they had a penalty at one point, but the referee waved it off, judging Rasmus Hajlund to have gone down too easily.

Late drama nearly tilted the game. McTominay missed a golden chance, firing into the side netting, while Matteo Politano struck the post with a curling effort that deserved a goal.

The Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of LAWMA, He explained that the affected operators failed to meet required service standards, prompting the authority to revoke their licences in the interest of public health and environmental sustainability.

As part of the restructuring, LAWMA also introduced a realignment of routes in rapidly developing areas where rising waste volumes have overwhelmed the capacity of single operators. Under the new arrangement, existing operators will retain portions of their routes, while additional operators are deployed to ensure broader and more efficient coverage.

Operators affected by the route redistribution include Shekaz Global Limited in Isolo (Ishaga/Ire Akari axis) and Krestabol Waste Management in Ikorodu (Lowa).

“In locations where development has outpaced the capacity of a single operator, it becomes necessary to redistribute operational responsibilities to guarantee timely and effective service delivery,” Gbadegesin stated.

The LAWMA boss added that some operators voluntarily relinquished their routes, allowing the authority to reassign those areas to better-equipped firms. Among them are Ayolade Oluwabukola Enterprises in Lagos Island East (Ajele axis) and Imperium Waste Services in Ayoobo/Ipaja (Slot B).

He noted that the exercise forms part of a broader strategy to strengthen the PSP framework, improve accountability, and ensure waste management services keep pace with Lagos’ rapid urban expansion.

Gbadegesin urged residents to cooperate with newly assigned operators and to patronise only LAWMA-accredited PSP operators, reiterating the agency’s commitment to continuous monitoring, enforcement and stakeholder engagement.