The All Progressives Congress (APC) Uzo-Uwani local government area of Enugu state on Friday announced the suspension of Sen Chuka Utazi for alleged anti-party activities. Utazi, a two-time senator (2015-2023), who represented Enugu North Senatorial District under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), decamped from his party and joined APC in 2024. But in a letter of notification addressed to the State Chairman of APC, Barr Ugochukwu Agballah, and signed by the Chairman of APC Uzo-Uwani LGA, Chief Chris Ajodo; the Secretary, Hon. Pius Diara, and APC Chairman, Nkpologu Ward, Hon. Albert Aniebonam, the party stated that Utazi's suspension was sequel to and consequent upon a complaint/petition from the Senator's Nkpologu ward, alleging anti-party activities. The Ward accused Sen Utazi of having participated in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Enugu North Zonal Chapter meetings and endorsement of Barr. Peter Mba, the Governor of Enugu State, for second term in the coming 2027 election. They also accused the senator of granting interviews and engaging in open blackmail and de-marketing of APC Enugu State chapter in public, among others infractions. "These allegations were backed up by online video evidences as the case may be," the party officials stated in the notification letter, which was also copied to the leader of the party in the state, Minister of Innovation Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji (Nwakaibie). The party officials further clarified, "On receipt of the said complaint, the local government on 8/4/2025 setup a three-man disciplinary committee which notified the Senator of the petition and duly invited him to appear before the disciplinary body. "The invitation was however ignored by the Respondent. The above notwithstanding, the committee carried out a thorough investigation of the allegations and came out with a verdict of “guilt”. "The committee found the conduct of Senator Utazi highly disappointing, repugnant and unbecoming of a bona fide member of APC, and hence, recommended his indefinite suspension from the party. "Upon the receipt of the report of the Disciplinary Committee on 12/4/2025 and after careful examination of same, including the video evidence enclosed thereto, the Local Government Executive unanimously approved the recommendation of the Disciplinary committee, and hence, endorsed the indefinite suspension of former Senator Chuka Utazi from All Progressive Congress (APC) for anti-party activity in accordance with the Constitution of our great party."

Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, has described Mr Peter Obi as a social media candidate. Wike, who supported President Bola Tinubu during the 2023 presidential election, said Obi has no capacity to win the presidential election. Atku and Obi trailed behind Tinubu in the election. Speaking at a media parley in Abuja on Friday, he also ruled out support for Alhaji Atiku Abubakar in the 2027 election. When asked about Obi, Wike said, "He has no chance of winning the election; you people like this kind of social media candidate. "I don't do social media candidates. I sit down as a politician and analyse candidates who are likely to win an election."

Former Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike has expressed displeasure over the state of emergency declared in the state by President Bola Tinubu. Wike, who addressed journalists on Friday, said he had wished for outright removal of his successor, Siminalayi Fubara. It could be recalled that as the face-off between Wike and his estranged political son worsened, Tinubu declared a state of emergency in the state and appointed a sole administrator. Both Fubara, his deputy and members of the House of Assembly were moved. But speaking during the media parley, Wike, current FCT Minister, said he wanted the outright removal of Fubara. “As a politician, I am not happy with the declaration of Emergency Rule in Rivers state. "I wanted the outright removal of the governor. But for the interest of the state, the president did the right thing to prevent anarchy in the state,” he said.

The Senior Pastor of Dunamis International Gospel Centre, Paul Enenche, has cried out over the level of blood-letting in Nigeria. He spoke amid reported endless killings in Plateau, Benue and other parts of the country. The cleric addressed his congregation during a Special Service at the Glory Dome in Abuja, wondering why leaders are keeping quiet. He said, "You have your farmland and some people come to uproot cassava to feed their animals, and you ask why? They waste your blood on your father’s land. What did we do in this country to warrant this? “Blood flowing like water in Plateau State, Benue State, and others. "What evil did we do in this country that we have not had the solution to this matter? "When will we have people there that will have heart for people? That will sit up and make legislation. That will eliminate the wastage of blood in this land. "Why is blood flowing like water? And nobody is saying anything.”

The North-Central All Progressives Congress, APC, Forum, has described the decision of the political bloc comprising members of the defunct Congress for Progressives Change, CPC, led by former Nasarawa State Governor, Tanko Al-Makura, as a clear message to failed politicians. This came after the CPC bloc rejected the coalition against President Bola Tinubu. The coalition, led by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, candidate in the 2023 election and Mr Peter Obi of the Labour Party is aimed at defeating Tinubu and the APC in 2027. Reacting to the CPC’s decision, the Forum, in a statement released on Thursday by its Chairman, Alhaji Saleh Zazzaga, said: "The North-Central APC Forum salutes the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) bloc led by former Nasarawa State Governor, Tanko Al-Makura, for snubbing the opposition coalition being formed against President Bola Tinubu and our great party, the All Progressives Congress, APC. "By this singular act, Tanko Al-Makura has shown that he is a committed, loyal party man who believes strongly in the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu and the APC. He and his team have demonstrated loyalty to the party and to Mr. President and we wholeheartedly commend them for this exemplary conduct. "By rejecting the opposition coalition, the Al-Makura-led CPC bloc has sent a message to Nigerians ahead of the 2027 election. The message, which is loud and clear, is that Nigerians should reject any attempt to derail the reforms and good work being done by President Bola Tinubu's administration to turn the fortunes of the country around. "The failed politicians who are championing the coalition against Mr. President do not have anything better to offer Nigerians - they do not even have the interests of Nigerians at heart - they are only aggrieved because they lost the last election, and they are not part of President Bola Tinubu's government. "Just as the Tanko Al-Makura-led CPC bloc has shown that they are people of integrity and honour by rejecting the coalition, we urge Nigerians to reject the coalition and any other attempt to turn back the progress recorded so far under President Bola Tinubu's administration. "With former Nasarawa State Governor Tanko Al-Makura fully on board, the North-Central APC Forum is confident of actualising the promise to deliver six million votes for President Bola Tinubu in 2027. "The North-Central is indeed for the APC and President Bola Tinubu and this is not surprising when one considers the historical role played by the zone in the formation of the APC.” The statement added, "The North-Central brought a sitting governor in the coalition. Many of the other zones did not bring anything. "Tanko Al-Makura of Nasarawa State in the North-Central was the only sitting governor that actively participated in forming the APC. "But it is unfortunate that after he became President, Buhari did not even consider that when we asked for the position of Speaker and the position was taken to Lagos. "During Buhari's government the North-Central suffered most - we were denied infrastructure, our roads were not attended to and the high level of insecurity in the region was not addressed. "Instead the North-East and the North-West concentrated all the benefits in their zones. Federal appointments, which many Nigerians believed favoured the North, only went to the two zones. The North-Central was left out."

The Central Bank of Nigeria has issued a fresh warning to Bureau De Change Operators and financial institutions in the country against violating anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing framework. The warning was issued on Thursday in a circular signed by the CBN director of compliance department, Amonia Opusunju. It vowed to impose sanctions on BDC operators who failed to adhere to its regulatory framework. “BDC operators are reminded that they are required to fully comply with the provisions of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022; the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022; and the Regulatory and Supervisory Guidelines for Bureau de Change Operators in Nigeria, 2024. “Any other relevant laws, regulations, and guidelines issued by the CBN and Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit (NFIU). "All BDCs are advised to ensure that their operations, staff training, transaction monitoring, and customer onboarding procedures are always fully compliant with applicable requirements,” the apex bank said. It added that, “financial institutions are required to maintain a robust and dynamic sanctions compliance framework that enables them to identify and respond promptly to updates or changes across all applicable sanctions lists; prevent the use of their systems and platforms for transactions involving designated individuals or entities; conduct real-time screening of customers, transactions, and beneficial owners; and file appropriate reports with the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit and notify the CBN, where necessary.”

Former Aviation Minister, Femi Fani-Kayode, has linked the ongoing massacre in Plateau State to the 2027 presidential election. It could be recalled that bandits have killed over 100 persons in the state in two separate deadly attacks in the month of April. In a video on his social media page, Fani-Kayode said: “Here we go again, more killings in Nigeria and in particular Plateau State, all being orchestrated by the usual suspects from outside the country sending people from north Africa and the Sahel region to come and slaughter our people. “They are slaughtering both Christians and Muslims, including northerners and southerners. They are doing this now simply because they want to destabilise Nigeria and discredit the government. This was orchestrated and the same thing happened in 2014 prior to Jonathan’s defeat the next year. “They are doing this now, preparing ground for 2027. We know who they are, these are foreign elements from the west including Israel and a number of others because they don’t want a stable and peaceful Nigeria or for our people to succeed in their democracy endeavours. “These are all planned in an attempt to divide us and plunge us into a senseless civil war to be killing ourselves as brothers while the real enemy comes from outside the country who do not wish us well.” He added, “We should adopt the approach of President Donald Trump by sealing the borders and stop these people who have no business being here from coming. Let’s do what Donald Trump is doing by building prisons for them and most importantly eliminate them. "God’s will shall be done and Nigerians, both Christians and Muslims from the north and south will stand as one."

A Chief Magistrate Court has sentenced a football fan, Bashir Bala, to three months’ imprisonment for assaulting Vincent Temitope, a player of Plateau United Football Club. The convict was, however, given an option of fine. It was reported that violence erupted over the weekend at the Lafia City Stadium, shortly after a heated Nigerian Premier Football League (NPFL) clash between Nasarawa United and Plateau United, which ended 3-2 in favour of the home team. Bala, a resident of Lafia and suspected fan of Nasarawa United, was arraigned by the Nigeria Police on a three-count charge bordering on assault, criminal force, and public disturbance. Upon arraignment, he pleaded guilty to the charges. The court, in delivering its judgment, sentenced Bala to three months in prison, with an option to pay a fine. The incident, which sparked widespread condemnation among fans and stakeholders, saw the Plateau United player physically attacked shortly after the final whistle. Recall that Nasarawa United in an official statement issued Tuesday by the club’s Director of Media, Eche Amos, clarified that the incident, while unfortunate, was exaggerated. Amos stated that Temitope suffered only a slight bruise on the neck and was not stabbed with a knife or any dangerous weapon as claimed. He explained that eyewitness accounts confirmed that the suspect involved in the altercation, one Bashir Bala, used his sharp fingernails during a scuffle after the player allegedly attempted to hit a spectator with a plastic chair. However, contrary to earlier reports suggesting that Temitope was stabbed, the club has confirmed that he only sustained minor injuries. Temitope, who has since resumed training with his teammates, debunked the stabbing rumours, saying he is focused on helping his team in upcoming fixtures.

Former federal lawmaker, Senator Shehu Sani has risen in defence of President Bola Tinubu as he faces allegations of skewing appointments in favour of the South-West. Tinubu’s administration has been under attack for giving most strategic appointments to the people from his South-West region. Senator Ali Ndume recently came hard on him, declaring that it was way too bad. But speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Sani countered the nepotism allegation against Tinubu, arguing that the Buhari administration was worse in terms of favouritism. According to him, It is clear the nation has a very short memory, and then we simply forget what happened the last time Buhari was in power. What was the profile of nepotism at that time? “The DG of SSS, Daura was from Katsina state, the DG of NIA, Rufai was from Katsina state, the MPA, my sister Hadiza, she’s from Katsina state, Director of Federal Mortgage Bank, Katsina state, SMEDAN, Katsina state, FRCN Katsina state, NIMET Katsina state, NIMASA Katsina state, Railway Corporation, Katsina state, all those things, you don’t talk of Chairman of federal civil service about 30 (of them) We don’t have time, I can state all of them. All from Katsina state. “At a certain time in this country, the Controller General of Immigration is from northern Nigeria. Customs, Hamid Ali is from northern Nigeria, Civil Defense, Audi is from northern Nigeria, Chairman of Federal Road Safety Corps is from northern Nigeria. Inspector General of Police, Alkali Baba is from northern Nigeria, the Chief of Naval staff, the Chief of Army Staff, they’re all from northern Nigeria. We have had all these things here, and you have never had any person from the southern part of the country raising issues.” He then took a swipe at Northerners criticising Tinubu, insisting that they lacked the morality to do so. “And when you keep quiet when it favored you, and now you speak out when it doesn’t favor you,” he said.

Legal luminary, Femi Falana has demanded the immediate removal of the Rivers State Sole Administrator, Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas. The Senior Advocate of Nigeria, SAN, while making the demand on Thursday, accused Ibas of breaching constitutional provisions. He madereference to the official Federal Government Gazette, which outlined the terms governing the Sole Administrator’s operations. Falana said that “it is common knowledge that President Bola Tinubu has not issued any Regulation for the operation of the Sole Administrator.” “By treating the orders of President Bola Tinubu with contempt, the Sole Administrator has compounded the illegality of his appointment. "The Sole Administrator ought to be removed without any further delay,” he said in a statement.

The Presidency has played down President Bola Tinubu's absence from Nigeria amid the security challenges plaguing the country. Some concerned Nigerians, including former Vice President, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar had criticised the president for staying outside the shores of the country while criminals run riot. However, in a statement on Thursday, Mr Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President,(Information and Strategy), said Tinubu was perfectly running th country from Europe. He said, "President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains fully engaged in Nigeria's governance even though he is away in Europe. "His absence remains temporary and in line with the communicated timeframe of approximately two weeks. "The President left Paris for London at the weekend and has maintained constant communication with key government officials, overseeing critical national matters, including directives to security chiefs to address emerging threats in some parts of the country. "His return to Abuja and the resumption of duties at Aso Villa will follow the conclusion of the Easter holiday. "The President’s commitment to his duties remains unwavering, and his administration continues to function effectively under his leadership. "We appreciate the public’s concern and assure all Nigerians that governance proceeds without interruption." It could be recalled that President Tinubu left the country for a working visit to France.

The Federal Government of Nigeria has urged the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia not to further delay the signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Exchange of Sentenced Persons between both countries. Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu stated the country’s position at a meeting with the Ethiopian Ambassador to Nigeria, Legesse Geremew Haile, in her office at Tafawa Balewa House, Abuja. This is as the minister expressed the Federal Government’s displeasure over the spate of embarrassment and harassment suffered by Nigerians including those with Official and Diplomatic Passports in Addis Ababa. Odumegwu-Ojukwu reminded the Ethiopian Ambassador that the Nigeria side had concluded with reflection of the Ethiopian observations in the draft MOU on Exchange of Sentenced Persons between both countries and wondered why signing of the MOU was being delayed despite assurances at their meeting of March 6, 2025. The minister highlighted with deep concern the plight of Nigerian inmates in Ethiopia who she said were not having access to medical care among other challenges. She also noted the overwhelming challenges this posed to the Ethiopian Government. She expressed dismay that a Nigerian recently died in Ethiopian prison, and declared that as a government deeply committed to citizen diplomacy, the federal government would not want a repeat of such ugly incident. “Our people don't want to hear that another Nigerian inmate died in Ethiopian prison,” the minister said. Odumegwu-Ojukwu further decried the continued delay in returning monies seized from Nigerian businessmen by the Ethiopian Government even after the country’s Prime Minister, Abiy Ahmed, had at the 40th Session of the Executive Council of the African Union held in February 2022, granted amnesty to all African travellers whose monies were seized at the Bole International Airport, due to non-declaration of the amount over and above three thousand US Dollars, as provided by then Ethiopian law. She regretted that of the 25 Nigerians whose monies were seized as at the time, only 15 had been approved for refund, due to the stringent condition put by the Ethiopian side for the refunds. Even at that, only two persons had actually been refunded their seized money. The minister cited the pathetic case of one Mr. Francis Chukwuma Uzoh whose US$70,000 was seized by the Ethiopian authorities. She bemoaned that despite meeting all the conditions, Francis was yet to be refunded since 2022. Consequently, Mr. Francis has become desolate, homeless, abandoned by family, hugely indebted and a shadow of his former self. The minister, therefore, urged the Ethiopian envoy to press for a last chance for the Ethiopian Government to refund Mr. Francis his $70,000 while he is still alive, “so they don’t use the money to bury him when he has gone.” Additionally, the minister noted that visa waiver for holders of Official and Diplomatic Passports was tied to the Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA) signed by the two countries. Following what Nigerians faced at Addis Ababa, Odumegwu-Ojukwu accused Ethiopia of unilaterally withdrawing from the MoU without notifying Nigeria. According to her, it is of great concern because Addis is a hub and many Nigerians have adopted Ethiopian Airline as the airline of choice. Regardless, the minister reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with Ethiopia, assuring that the 4th Session of Nigeria-Ethiopia Joint Commission would soon hold in Abuja. Responding, the Ethiopian Ambassador, said that the visa waiver agreement was still in place but needed ratification by the country’s House of Representatives. That notwithstanding, Amb. Haile said that the Embassy had issued visas to Nigerians with official and diplomatic passports, pointing out that the problem is actually when the applicant is with the regular passport. “The visa on arrival has neither been withdrawn nor abrogated,” he said, stressing, “We are very close to Nigeria. The Ethiopian Government views the Federal Republic of Nigeria as a very strategic partner.” He also thanked the Nigerian Government for the additional seven slots recently approved for the Ethiopian Airline on the Lagos route.

The foundational chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Enugu State, Barr Ben Nwoye has dumped the party. Nwoye announced his resignation at a press briefing on Thursday. He was, however, silent on his next political move. His defection speech in full: Re: Membership Resignation. With deep sense of responsibility I write to inform you that I hereby resign as a member of All Progressives Congress. My resignation is as a result of disintegration of the leadership of party in Enugu State. The bunch of "Broom" which we painstakingly tied together in 2013 at a time when we were called unprintable names has loosened and permanently scattered. All efforts made by the Party Elders to gather the "Broom" and reassemble it has failed. In its current form, further attempts to reassemble the "Broom" in Enugu State is no longer practicable. What is left of the "Broom" are two skeletal structures. One of each structures is held by two strong men. One of the strong men claims Chairmanship by judicial pronouncement. While the other claims Chairmanship through arrogant disobedient of the same judicial pronouncement aided by the silent approval of the National Leadership The leadership of the party in South East are fully engaged in vindictive politics. They are not interested in adding another State to the two States the party controls in the South East. As far as they are concerned, the supremacy of the party is measured by how low they can go to oppress their perceived political enemies. These they do, without recourse to the core principles upon which APC stands -Justice, Peace and Unity. To say the least, the Zonal leadership in the South East has lost direction. In the meantime, the National leadership of the Party is basking on the euphoria of power, being the party under which the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the majority of the members of the National Assembly were elected. The APC National Leadership has therefore maintained willful blindness. Hence, allowing the warring factions to self-destruct and stragulate the party in Enugu State. To worsen the situation, the APC National leadership treats Party Elders calls for reconciliation with disdain and disrespect. Loyal party members calling for party unity are treated like conquered and captured political warriors. In other words, loyal party members who do not agree with the position of the APC National leadership on the division that exists within the entire party structure in Enugu State have been transformed into prisoners of political war. They have been placed in political captivity in Enugu State. On the basis stated above, I engaged in extensive consultations with my grassroots followers and I have come to the conclusion that it is time to move on. I am not a political prisoner. I have never been and I can never be. The situation in Enugu State is not an isolated case. For example, in Anambra State the National Leadership did not care to hear the voice of H.E. Senator Chris Ngige before awarding the Gubernatorial ticket to the highest bidder? In Abia State, where are the likes of Dr Ikechi Emenike and Ayim Iyerenye? In Ebonyi State where is the voice of Senator Julius Ucha. And in Imo State where is H.E. Owelle Rochas Okorocha and Ugwumba Uche Nwosu. These are great men who risked it all and made tremendous sacrifices to ensure that APC gained ground in the South East. Today, their opinions no longer matter. So, it is time to move on and discover a new frontier. Very Truly Yours, Dr Ben Nwoye (Former Chairman APC Enugu State, Former Secretary Forum of APC State Chairmen, Former Publicity Secretary Forum of APC State Chairmen and Former Federal Commissioner FCCPC Representing South East)

Quadri Alabi, the teen who stood in front of Mr Peter Obi's convoy, has regained freedom from prison. It could be recalled that news of his detention went viral a few days ago, after he has spent months in Kirikiri prison. Many Nigerians, including Mr Peter Obi, condemned his detention and demanded his release. Activist lawyer, Inibehe Effiong, his lead counsel, announced the development in a social media post on Thursday. He wrote, "We are excited to announce that Quadri Yusuf Alabi, the 17-year old teenager who gained fame during the 2023 elections after he spontaneously jumped and stood in front of the convoy of the presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Mr. Peter Obi has been freed by the court today, 17th April, 2025. Our client, Quadri was abducted by two ‘Area Boys’ who are notoriously known in the community as Lege and Baba Waris close to his family residence at Amukoko, Ajeromi-Ifelodun Local Government Area and dumped at the Amukoko Divisional Police Headquarters (Pako Police Station) in Lagos State. "Quadri was returning from work when he was grabbed by the duo, who along with other jealous and entitled Area Boys in the community, have been harassing him and threatening to deal with him since 2023 for not giving them ‘their share’ of donations gifted him during the last elections period. Quadri’s family informed us that the Baale of the community equally pressured them to buy a cow and rice and cook for the community to appease the Area Boys. The abductors initially told the officers at Amukoko Police Station that our client was involved in street fighting. To the consternation of Quadri and his family, the police on 26th January, 2025 took Quadri before a Magistrate in Apapa, and obtained an order remanding him at the Medium Security Custodial Centre, Kirikiri on a trumped-up charge of armed robbery. The police fraudulently joined Quadri with four strange adults who had no form of connection or relationship whatsoever with him and claimed that the four strange men were his case mates. As part of the diabolical frame-up of our client, the officers at Amukoko Police Station also misrepresented his age to be 18, knowing that disclosing his actual age would likely raise eyebrows. When we were briefed by Quadri’s mother a week ago, after the matter was brought to public attention by Ms. Hassana Nurudeen, the Co-founder of Ray of Hope Prison Outreach, we swiftly escalated the case and took necessary steps towards securing his freedom. At the Court today, the presiding Magistrate, His Honour, A. O. Olorunfemi (Mrs.), confirmed that the legal advice issued by the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), of the Ministry of Justice, Lagos State, Dr. Babajide Martins showed that there was no evidence to substantiate the allegation of armed robbery against Quadri. In his Legal Advice, the DPP recommended the non-prosecution of Quadri. Thus, the presiding Magistrate discharged him and he was accordingly freed. We commend the DPP for standing by the truth in this matter. We demand that the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, and the Inspector General of Police, should as a matter of urgency, remove the DPO of Amukoko Divisional Headquarters and subject him to orderly room trial along with the IPO, one Inspector Odigbe Samuel, and other officers who participated in this evil, sinister, oppressive, and corrupt scheme of framing-up a teenager for armed robbery at the behest of rogue ‘Area Boys’. We demand that the Nigeria Police Force should pay the sum of One Hundred Million Naira (N100,000,000.00) to our client as compensation. Also, we also demand a public apology from the police. If the above three remedial demands are not fully complied with immediately, we shall initiate legal actions to seek redress. Quadri’s case is a painful example of the putrefying corruption, monstrous impunity, and pervasive injustice in the Nigeria Police Force. There are many Quadris languishing in detention centres across Nigeria because of the unbridled criminality, lawlessness, and lack of accountability in the Police institution and the weakness of the justice system. History will vindicate the just."

Terrorists have continued their deadly reign in the Northern Nigeria, as they ambushed a team of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), killing three of its officers in Kebbi State. The hoodlums also burnt patrol vehicles during the attack. This comes amid renewed onslaught by terrorists in different parts of the country, with Boko Haram said to be occupying at least three communities in Borno State. The Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, who confirmed the latest ISWAP attack during a working visit to the Niger/Kogi Area Command of the Service, expressed over the activities of the Islamic State in West Africa Province (ISWAP) at the Babanna border in Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State. He described their presence as a serious threat to national security and border operations. Adeniyi said the officers were ambushed in the Bashaka area of Kebbi State. “Three of our officers were recently killed in Bashaka, Kebbi State. They were taken by surprise as the attackers shelled them, burnt their vehicles, and opened fire on all of them," he said. He added that customs operatives narrowly escaped another ambush by ISWAP militants after seizing 500 jerricans of smuggled Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) at the Babanna border. The smugglers were suspected of supplying fuel to terrorists and armed bandits. Adeniyi, represented by the Assistant Comptroller General of Customs in charge of Finance, Administration, and Special Duties, Hussein Kehinde Ejibunu stressed the need for enhanced collaboration with other security agencies and urged officers to remain vigilant amid rising threats. “It would interest you to know that most of these bandits attacking us get their fuel through smugglers, giving the adversaries the power to move around and attack citizens,” he said. He warned that terrorist groups now operate in border areas of Niger, Kebbi, and Borno states, including ISWAP, Boko Haram, and Lakurawa, some of whom, he claimed, live among local communities.

Good morning- Below are major news reports making headlines in Nigerian Newspapers today: 1. Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar has challenged President Bola Tinubu to declare a state of emergency on his "own disastrous Presidency." Atiku, a former presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, believes the insecurity ravaging the country has overwhelmed the government, noting that Nigeria is in a full-blown state of emergency. 2. The Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals has further reviewed its ex-depot loading cost of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol. The new price is set at N835 per litre, down from N865 per litre implemented six days ago, marking a 3.5 percent decrease. 3. Arsenal stunned Real Madrid on Wednesday after completing a double at the Santiago Bernabeu. The Gunners, who travelled to Spain with a healthy 3-0 lead from the first leg, won 2-1 to head to the UEFA Champions League semi finals. 4. Many Nigerians could be left stranded as the United States of America begins a process to cancel visas for at least 901 international students. The development, which will lead to legal status terminations, has sparked panic and confusion on college campuses nationwide. 5. The Nigeria Police has announced the arrest of two high profile suspects as it pushes to end the wanton killings and destruction of properties in Plateau State. This was confirmed in a statement released by the Force Headquarters on Wednesday. 6. The Rivers State Government, on Wednesday, dismissed viral reports that it summoned the suspended governor of the state, Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Prof. Mrs. Ngozi Nma Odu. In a statement made available to journalists, signed by Sir Dede Sampson Friday, Permanent Secretary, Special Services Bureau, Office of the Secretary to the Rivers State  Government, he issued stern warning against those spreading fake news. 7. Members of the All Progressives Congress, (APC), the defunct Congress for Progressive Change, CPC, bloc of the have declared their loyalty to President Bola Tinubu. Amid coalition talks in the country, the CPC members have now dismissed reports of a possible defection from the APC, stressing that such a claim was mischievous. 8. Thirty-six cows have been reportedly killed and 42 poisoned on Wednesday around the Tafi Gana junction area of Bassa Local Government Area of Plateau State. Chairman of Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), in Bassa LGA, Ya’u Idris, confirmed the incident to Daily Trust. 9. The naira depreciated against the dollar at both parallel and official foreign exchange markets on Wednesday. The depreciation, for the first time since last week, weakened the Naira to N1,620 per dollar on Wednesday from N1,610 traded on Tuesday. 10. Hundreds of suspected Boko Haram members have been arrested in Lagos State. This was disclosed by the Commander of the Civilian Joint Task Force in Lagos, Mr Kumar Sanda, on Wednesday.

Amid talks of coalition by opposition politicians and aggrieved members of the All Progressives Congress, (APC), the defunct Congress for Progressive Change, CPC, bloc of the have declared their loyalty to President Bola Tinubu. CPC members are core loyalists of former president, Muhammadu Buhari. Former governor of Kaduna State, Nasir El-Rufai, had recently defected to the Social Democratic Party, (SDP), fueling more speculations of mass exodus from the ruling party. However, the CPC members have now dismissed reports of a possible defection from the APC, stressing that such a claim was mischievous. They disclosed this in a statement signed by U.T Al-Makura and Osita Okechukwu on behalf of the CPC bloc in the APC after their meeting. The group said, "We, as representatives of committed members of the former Congress for Progressive Change (CPC), who were part of those instrumental in the historic merger that gave birth to the All Progressives Congress (APC), hereby issue this statement to clarify our unalloyed loyalty to our great party and express firm solidarity with the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR. "Recent misleading narratives suggesting a defection or disaffection among CPC stakeholders are mischievous and should be ignored. "We remain integral to the APC and are fully aligned with its leadership and vision. "Our position is as follows: We wish to state categorically that we have neither left the APC nor do we intend to leave. The CPC bloc remains one of the legacy foundations of the APC, and we are resolute in our commitment to the party and its progressive ideals. "As part of the legacy parties that formed the APC, we take pride in the sacrifices made to build a platform that promotes national unity, justice, and development. "We will not allow some people to dismantle the party we helped to build through years of tireless work and dedication. "Though challenging, these policies are necessary steps to rebuild our economy and secure a better future for all Nigerians. "We urge patience and collective support as the benefits unfold.While we acknowledge that some party members may feel sidelined, we emphasize that such grievances are not exclusive to any one bloc. "We advise those concerned to seek redress through constitutional channels within the party and not to resort to negative public agitation or hasty exits from the party. "At this critical point in Nigeria’s democratic journey, it is imperative for all APC members— especially those with deep roots in the party’s formation—to work together to preserve its legacy and help consolidate Nigeria’s democracy. "We must avoid actions that erode our unity and the stability of the nation.We call on the leadership of the APC to scale up engagement with members across all levels. "Strengthening internal communication will reduce tension, foster inclusiveness, and enhance support for the party’s programs. "Party unity must be nurtured continuously in order to sustain the gains and to secure the future.We therefore reaffirm our loyalty to the APC and our support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR. The CPC family remains a vital pillar of the APC and will continue to play a responsible role in its growth and in the progress of Nigeria."

Nigerians have cheering news as Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals has further reviewed its ex-depot loading cost of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol. NATIONAL POST reports that this is not unconnected with the drop in the price of crude oil at the international market. It is coming a few days to the Easter celebration. The new price is set at N835 per litre, down from N865 per litre implemented six days ago, marking a 3.5 percent decrease. The company informed its customers of the price reduction via a notice on Wednesday, marking Dangote’s third downward adjustment under six weeks. Previously, the refinery had reduced its gantry price from N880 to N865 per litre, however, oil marketers did not pass on the savings to consumers. Dagote’s retail partners, such as MRS, AP (Ardova), Heyden, Optima Energy, Hyde, and Techno Oil are expected to reflect the new price adjustment.

The Nigeria Police has announced the arrest of two high profile suspects as it pushes to end the wanton killings and destruction of properties in Plateau State. This was confirmed in a statement released by the Force Headquarters on Wednesday. The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun condemned the recent wave of killings in the State, describing them as “senseless, utterly reprehensible, and a grave assault on national peace and security.” It could be recalled that over 50 persons were slaughtered in the state on Tuesday, April 15, 2025. According to the statement, two high-profile suspects have been arrested in connection with the killings in Bokkos Local Government Area and are currently assisting with ongoing investigations. “The Nigeria Police Force is diligently working to uncover the motives behind these attacks, identify and apprehend other suspects involved in the killings,” the statement read. As part of efforts to stabilize the security situation in the state, the IGP directed the Deputy Inspector-General of Police (DIG) in charge of Operations, Kwazhi Dali Yakubu, to take charge of all police operations in Plateau State. Following this directive, the DIG has led a team on aerial surveillance missions over the Bokkos and Bassa areas and is currently engaging local stakeholders in a confidence-building effort. “After a comprehensive review of the security operations, the IGP has ordered the immediate deployment of additional police personnel and resources to Plateau State to enhance rapid response and patrol high-risk areas. “The Inspector-General of Police extends his deepest condolences to the families of the victims and stands in solidarity with the people of Plateau State during this difficult time,” the Force added. The Nigeria Police reaffirmed its dedication to bringing all perpetrators of the attacks to justice and ensuring the safety and security of citizens in the state.