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Author: Promise Odejide

  • Police Launch Green Fleet Push as IGP Disu Receives CNG Buses from Trust Fund, PI-CNG

    The Nigeria Police Force has begun a shift toward cleaner energy and modern mobility after receiving three specialised buses powered by compressed natural gas, in a move authorities say will improve operations and reduce fuel costs nationwide.

    The vehicles were officially handed over on April 21, 2026, by the Nigeria Police Trust Fund and the Presidential Initiative on Compressed Natural Gas and Electric Vehicles, marking the first phase of a broader transition plan within the Force.

    What the rollout means

    The donation signals the start of a long-term plan to modernise the police operational fleet by gradually converting existing vehicles to compressed natural gas, a step expected to cut operational expenses and reduce environmental impact.

    Officials involved in the project said the initiative goes beyond supplying vehicles, with plans already in place to build technical capacity within the Force and ensure sustainability of the transition over time.

    They noted that the shift to alternative energy aligns with global trends in law enforcement logistics, where agencies are increasingly adopting cost-effective and environmentally friendly solutions.

    IGP reacts to development

    Receiving the fleet, the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, psc(+), NPM, lauded the initiative as a strategic necessity. He emphasized that the shift to CNG and electric power is a visionary move that aligns the Force with global best practices in modern logistics.

    He said the introduction of CNG-powered vehicles would enhance day-to-day policing activities while easing the financial burden associated with fuel consumption across commands.

    The police chief also revealed plans to establish internal conversion centres that will enable the Force to independently maintain and upgrade its fleet, reducing reliance on external technical support.

    Push for long-term sustainability

    Stakeholders at the event stressed that the partnership between the Police Trust Fund and the PI-CNG initiative is designed to deliver long-term benefits, including lower emissions and improved fleet management systems.

    They added that continued collaboration would see more vehicles introduced and existing ones retrofitted, as part of efforts to reposition the Nigeria Police Force for modern policing demands.

    The development highlights a growing shift within public institutions toward energy-efficient solutions, especially at a time when rising fuel costs continue to strain operational budgets across sectors.

     

  • FG Files 13-Count Charge Against Sylva, Others Over Alleged Coup Plot

    The Federal Government has filed a 13-count charge against former Bayelsa State governor, Timipre Sylva, and six others over an alleged plot to overthrow President Bola Tinubu, in a case now before the Federal High Court in Abuja.

    The charges, bordering on treason, terrorism and money laundering, were filed on Tuesday by the Director of Public Prosecutions of the Federation, Rotimi Oyedepo, under suit number FHC/ABJ/CR/206/2026.

    Who is involved

    Sylva, a former minister under the Muhammadu Buhari administration, is listed as the seventh defendant but is currently at large, with authorities expected to proceed against him in absentia if he fails to appear.

    Other defendants include retired Major General Mohammed Ibrahim Gana, retired Naval Captain Erasmus Ochegobia Victor, Inspector Ahmed Ibrahim, Zekeri Umoru, Bukar Kashim Goni, and Abdulkadir Sani.

    They are expected to be arraigned before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court in Abuja.

    Breakdown of charges

    Court documents show that the 13-count charge revolves around allegations of conspiracy, failure to disclose intelligence, terrorism-related activities and financial crimes linked to terrorism financing.

    The key charges include:

    • Conspiracy to wage war against Nigeria in a bid to overawe the President
    • Failure to disclose knowledge of an alleged treason plot to authorities
    • Failure to take steps to prevent the commission of treason
    • Conspiracy to commit acts of terrorism within Nigeria
    • Participation in meetings linked to acts of terrorism
    • Providing support to individuals planning terrorist acts
    • Withholding information that could prevent or expose terrorism activities
    • Retention and handling of funds suspected to be proceeds of terrorism financing
    • Acceptance of large cash payments outside formal financial systems
    • Money laundering through bank accounts linked to alleged unlawful activities

    Financial allegations

    Specific counts detail financial transactions allegedly tied to terrorism financing, including claims that some defendants received millions of naira through bank accounts or cash payments believed to be proceeds of unlawful acts.

    These include ₦50 million allegedly traced to Bukar Kashim Goni, ₦10 million cash reportedly received by Zekeri Umoru, and smaller amounts linked to other defendants.

    Court proceedings

    The Federal Government is prosecuting the case as part of efforts to address threats to national security and uphold Nigeria’s constitutional order.

    The arraignment is expected to mark the beginning of a closely watched legal battle, given the high-profile individuals involved and the gravity of the allegations.

    Wider context

    Nigeria has maintained uninterrupted democratic governance since 1999, despite a history of military coups in earlier decades and recent instability in parts of West Africa.

    The case adds to growing concerns about internal security threats, as authorities intensify efforts to prevent actions that could undermine the country’s democratic system.

     

  • “It Is Foolish to Think You Own Nigeria” — Oyedepo Speaks Out, Sparks Reactions

    Founder of Living Faith Church Worldwide, Bishop David Oyedepo, has spoken out in a sermon that is now generating nationwide reactions after making strong remarks on national ownership and religious influence in Nigeria.

    The statement, which surfaced online on Tuesday, quickly gained traction across social media, with many Nigerians debating its tone and implications in the country’s already sensitive religious and political climate.

    What Oyedepo said

    Speaking during the sermon, Oyedepo dismissed the idea that any individual or group could claim control over Nigeria, warning against what he described as attempts to dominate the country along religious lines.

    “It is foolish for anybody to think they own Nigeria, who are you? You want to islamise Nigeria? You’re too late,” he said, in a remark that immediately drew mixed reactions online.

    He went further to stress his stance, adding, “Except Christ has left heaven, don’t try it cos if you do, it’ll boomerang. No one in Nigeria has a stronger stake than I do.”

    Reactions trail comment

    The comments have since triggered widespread debate, with supporters backing his right to express personal conviction while critics caution against statements that could deepen existing divisions in a multi-religious society.

    Some Nigerians argued that such remarks reflect long-standing concerns around religion and governance, while others warned that public figures should be mindful of the broader impact of their words.

    Wider context

    Observers note that conversations around religion and national identity often resurface during politically sensitive periods, especially as elections approach and public discourse intensifies.

    The latest comment adds to a growing list of high-profile interventions shaping discussions around unity, inclusion, and the future direction of the country.

  • Gov Yusuf Nominates Atiku’s Son-in-Law Garo as Kano Deputy Governor

    Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano State has forwarded the name of Murtala Sule Garo to the State House of Assembly for screening and confirmation as deputy governor, weeks after the position became vacant.

    The nomination, which was formally transmitted to lawmakers, places Garo, who is reportedly the son-in-law of former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, in line to take over the role pending legislative approval.

    How the vacancy emerged

    The deputy governorship seat became vacant on March 27, 2026, following the resignation of Aminu Gwarzo, who later defected after falling out with Governor Yusuf in a deepening political rift.

    Before his exit, the Kano State House of Assembly had already initiated impeachment proceedings against Gwarzo over allegations of gross misconduct, abuse of office, breach of public trust and financial mismanagement.

    Governor Yusuf had also accused the former deputy governor of attempting to undermine his administration, escalating tensions that eventually led to his resignation.

    Details of the nomination

    In a statement signed by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Mustapha Muhammad, the nomination was said to be in line with Section 191(3) of the 1999 Constitution, which empowers a governor to appoint a replacement when the office becomes vacant.

    The statement noted that the decision followed consultations with key political stakeholders across the state, with the governor seeking swift approval from the Assembly to fill the gap in his administration.

    Muhammad described Garo as a “seasoned political administrator” with extensive experience spanning over two decades in both elective and appointed positions.

    Garo’s political profile

    The 48-year-old politician has held several roles, including State Organising Secretary of his party, Special Adviser to the Kano State Governor, and Chairman of Kabo Local Government Area.

    He also served as Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) in Kano, Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, and was the deputy governorship candidate of the APC in the 2023 general elections.

    According to the statement, his nomination is part of efforts by the Yusuf administration to strengthen governance structures and ensure continuity in service delivery across the state.

  • FG Moves to Extradite Sylva Over Alleged Coup Plot Against Tinubu

    The Federal Government has begun moves to extradite former Bayelsa State governor, Timipre Sylva, over his alleged involvement in a coup plot targeting President Bola Tinubu, as fresh details emerge in the high-profile case.

    Sylva, who is listed as the seventh defendant in the charge, is reportedly on the run and is currently being tried in absentia, raising concerns about his whereabouts and the pace of proceedings.

    Extradition plan underway

    Sources revealed that authorities have enlisted the International Criminal Police Organisation (INTERPOL) to help track and return the former minister to Nigeria, in a bid to ensure he faces prosecution alongside other accused persons.

    The move signals a more aggressive push by the government to bring all defendants before the court, especially those currently outside its immediate reach.

    Six defendants to face trial

    Meanwhile, the Federal Government is set to arraign six other suspects before the Federal High Court in Abuja over the same alleged coup plot, marking the next phase of the legal process.

    The defendants include retired Major General Mohammed Ibrahim Gana, retired Naval Captain Erasmus Ochegobia Victor, Inspector Ahmed Ibrahim, Zekeri Umoru, Bukar Kashim Goni, and Abdulkadir Sani.

    Court proceedings begin

    The suit was filed by the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, on behalf of the Federal Government, as authorities move to prosecute those linked to the alleged plot.

    All six defendants are expected to appear before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court in Abuja, where proceedings are set to commence.

    Sylva still at large

    Despite being named in the charge, Sylva remains at large, with efforts ongoing to secure his return through international cooperation.

    The case has continued to draw attention as one of the most sensitive security-related prosecutions in recent times.

  • Wale Edun Breaks Silence Ahead of Exit as Finance Minister

    The outgoing Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, has spoken out as he prepares to step down from office on Thursday, ending his tenure under President Bola Tinubu.

    Edun, in a statement, expressed gratitude to the president for the opportunity to serve since May 2023.

    What he said

    He recalled that his involvement in the administration began as head of the Presidential Transition Committee before serving as Special Adviser on Monetary Policy and later as minister.

    According to him, the government inherited significant economic challenges but implemented reforms aimed at stabilising the economy and driving growth.

    “We have worked collectively… to stabilise the macroeconomic environment and lay the foundation for inclusive growth,” he said.

    Claims on economic progress

    Edun stated that economic growth rose from about two per cent to over four per cent during his tenure.

    He also claimed that inflation declined from 35 per cent to 15 per cent, attributing the development to coordinated policies and improved investor confidence.

    He added that the progress was driven by collaboration across the Federal Executive Council, state governments and private sector partners.

    Looking ahead

    While acknowledging that more work remains, the minister expressed confidence in the country’s economic direction and wished his successor success.

    He also reaffirmed his commitment to national development beyond his time in office.

  • Viral Video Questions Tinubu’s Media Silence, Sparks Debate Online

    A viral video has triggered fresh debate over President Bola Tinubu’s communication style, with a Nigerian woman questioning the level of his direct engagement with journalists.

    The clip, which has gained traction across social media, shows the speaker raising concerns about what she described as limited access to the president.

    What she said

    In the video, the woman criticised the pattern of public appearances by the president, noting that most engagements appear to be controlled settings without direct questioning.

    “President Tinubu occasionally holds press briefings… and that’s it,” she said, adding that she has not seen instances where journalists directly ask him questions.

    She also pointed to the campaign period, recalling that his media appearances were minimal.

    “Even during his campaign… that’s the only interview I can remember,” she added.

    Questions over transparency

    The speaker further raised concerns about transparency, questioning the absence of open interviews or press interactions since Tinubu assumed office.

    She referenced a town hall event during the campaign which the president did not attend, saying it added to perceptions of limited media access.

    “There’s a lot of questions to be asked… but we never get that,” she said.

    Global comparison

    Drawing comparisons with international practices, she cited the United States, noting that leaders there often engage directly with journalists.

    Her comments referenced former U.S. President Donald Trump as an example of frequent media interaction.

    Reactions trail video

    The video has since generated mixed reactions online, with some users agreeing that there is a communication gap, while others argue that the president communicates through official channels and spokespersons.

    Observers say the discussion reflects broader concerns about transparency and public engagement as political discourse intensifies.

  • Zlatan Offers ₦5m Monthly Salary, Seeks Private French Tutor

    Popular Nigerian rapper Zlatan Ibile has stirred reactions online after announcing that he is searching for a French teacher for private lessons, with a monthly pay of up to ₦5 million.

    The music star made the call on X on April 21, 2026, stating that he wants a qualified tutor who can deliver home lessons.

    “I need a French teacher for home lessons. The salary should not exceed 5 million per month,” he wrote.

    The offer quickly caught attention, with many Nigerians reacting to the proposed salary, describing it as unusually high for private tutoring.

    The development comes shortly after the rapper shared his stance on investments, revealing that he is reluctant to put money into emerging artists due to the risks involved. He noted that he prefers more tangible ventures.

    His latest post, however, shifted focus online, with users debating both the salary and the motive behind the announcement.

    Some expressed interest in the opportunity, while others questioned the need to publicly disclose the amount.

    Reactions trail post

    Social media users flooded the comment section with mixed responses.

    One user, @Flemar27, wrote, “No worry 5 million per month is too much for me Just Dey pay me 800k per month But you go Dey feed me.”

    Another, @dassdominic0, said, “Oga mi sir, I dey your door 🙏🏾.”

    @Africwatch reacted, “U sef Dey farm engagement, Cz what’s the point of the 5m ? When u can basically talk about the payment in private.”

    @SoloPidgin added, “With ₦5 million per month, you fit hire correct French teacher wey go teach you like say you dey Paris 🇫🇷🔥.”

    @_Daytonaa noted, “So we have this number of French speaking youth in Nigeria ? Incredible 😂.”

  • DSS Raises Alarm Over Plot to Kidnap Farmers in Kwara Communities

    The Department of State Services has warned of a fresh security threat in Kwara State, alerting authorities to an alleged plan by armed bandits to intensify the kidnapping of farmers in parts of the state.

    The alert, reportedly sent to the Commissioner of Police in Ilorin, identified farming settlements around Lema, Ndeji and Gbugbu communities in Edu Local Government Area as potential targets.

    Emerging threat in farm settlements

    According to the DSS, intelligence suggests that bandit groups linked to identified leaders are planning coordinated attacks aimed at disrupting farming activities.

    The agency noted that the move is likely a response to ongoing military operations that have weakened criminal networks in the area.

    “Intelligence indicate plans… to intensify kidnapping of farmers… This development would cause the farmers to abdicate activities,” the alert stated.

    Security advice issued

    The DSS urged security agencies to extend operations to vulnerable communities to prevent attacks and protect residents.

    It stressed the need for proactive deployment to forestall what it described as a looming threat to public safety.

    Rising insecurity in Kwara

    The warning comes amid growing concerns over insecurity in parts of Kwara, especially in the northern axis.

    Communities in Kaiama and Baruten have witnessed repeated attacks, killings and displacement of residents in recent months.

    Observers say the targeting of farmers could further worsen food production challenges if not quickly contained.

  • Adeleke Appoints Davido Youth Mobilisation Head Ahead of Osun 2026 Election

    Governor Ademola Adeleke has appointed music star David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, as head of youth mobilisation for his campaign council ahead of the 2026 Osun governorship election.

    Davido confirmed the development on Tuesday via X, expressing excitement over his role in his uncle’s re-election bid.

    “I have been appointed by the Governor of Osun State Ademola Adeleke and flag bearer of the Accord Party as head youth mobilization of campaign council! We look forward to a smooth campaign and your re-election your excellency! 4+4,” he wrote.

    Role in campaign structure

    The singer is expected to drive youth engagement and mobilisation as political activities gather momentum across the state.

    Davido has been a consistent supporter of Adeleke and was actively involved in previous campaigns.

    Race for Osun Government House

    The appointment comes as Adeleke seeks a second term in the August 2026 governorship election.

    He is expected to face candidates including Bola Oyebamiji of the All Progressives Congress and Salaam Folasayo of the African Democratic Congress, among others.