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  • INEC Chair Amupitan Speaks on ‘Divine Conviction’ After Appointment Amid Neutrality Concerns

    Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Amupitan, has said he only accepted the role after receiving what he described as a “clear divine conviction,” even as questions over his neutrality continue to trail his leadership.

    ‘I would have declined’

    Amupitan spoke in Abuja during an end-of-tenure service organised by the Nigerian Baptist Convention for its outgoing president, Israel Akanji, and his wife, Victoria.

    According to him, the decision to lead Nigeria’s electoral body was not taken lightly.

    “If I did not have the conviction for this job, I would not accept it,” he said.

    He added that he drew strength from what he described as a direct assurance from God before taking up the position.

    “The Lord said, ‘Fear not; do not be dismayed. I will strengthen you; I will help you; I will uphold you.’ I heard this clearly before I accepted this job,” Amupitan stated.

    Faith amid pressure

    The INEC chairman said that conviction has remained central to his leadership, especially given the complexity of managing elections in Nigeria.

    “No matter the storm, no matter the difficulty, God is able to calm every storm. That is what God has been doing,” he said.

    He also urged Nigerians to pray for the electoral body ahead of the 2027 general election, expressing confidence that the polls could set a new standard.

    “Continue to pray for Nigeria… that the 2027 election will be the best ever,” he said, adding that success would require divine support.

    Controversy over neutrality

    Amupitan’s remarks come against the backdrop of ongoing scrutiny over his perceived political neutrality.

    He was appointed by President Bola Tinubu in October 2025 to succeed former INEC chairman Mahmood Yakubu.

    Since then, resurfaced social media posts allegedly linked to him have sparked allegations of sympathy for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) during the 2023 elections.

    The claims have triggered calls from opposition figures and civil society groups for his resignation.

    Denial and pushback

    Amupitan has denied operating the account linked to the posts and insisted he remains politically neutral.

    INEC has also dismissed the allegations, describing them as attempts to discredit its leadership.

    Despite the denials, the controversy has continued to shape public discourse around electoral credibility, voter confidence, and the integrity of the commission ahead of 2027.

    The development remains a key talking point in latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today as attention shifts to preparations for the next general election.

     

  • DSS Arraigns El-Rufai Over Alleged Wiretapping of Ribadu’s Phone, Files Fresh Charges

    The Department of State Services (DSS) has arraigned former Kaduna governor Nasir el-Rufai before a federal high court in Abuja over allegations of illegally accessing the phone conversation of National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu.

    Fresh charges filed in court

    At Thursday’s proceedings, the prosecution informed the court that the charge had been amended from three to five counts.

    Presiding judge, Justice Joyce Abdulmalik, subsequently struck out the earlier charges and allowed the amended five-count charge to stand.

    El-Rufai, who also served as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, pleaded not guilty to all counts.

    What led to the case

    The charges are linked to remarks made by el-Rufai in February during an interview on Arise Television’s Prime Time programme.

    He had claimed that individuals aligned with him listened to Ribadu’s phone conversation, alleging that the NSA directed security operatives to arrest him.

    “He made the call because we listened to their calls. The government thinks they are the only ones that listen to calls but we also have our ways,” el-Rufai said at the time.

    He further alleged that Ribadu’s phone was tapped and that the information was passed to him.

    Mixed reactions trail allegations

    The comments triggered widespread reactions across Nigeria, with some Nigerians and political stakeholders calling for his arrest over the alleged wiretapping.

    Others, however, argued that the former governor should not be singled out, accusing the government of similar actions against citizens.

    Political tension in the background

    El-Rufai, once a strong ally of President Bola Tinubu, has in recent months been openly critical of the administration and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

    His arraignment has been described by opposition figures as politically motivated, though the federal government has denied any witch-hunt.

    The case is expected to continue in court as attention builds around one of the most talked-about developments in latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today.

  • LP Chair Nenadi Usman Says It’s “Too Late” for Peter Obi to Return for 2027 Ticket

    Labour Party Chairman Nenadi Usman has said it would be too late for the party’s former presidential candidate, Peter Obi, to return and contest under its platform ahead of the 2027 general election.

    “It will be too late” — Usman explains

    Speaking on Prime Time on Arise Television, Usman said party procedures and electoral guidelines would prevent any late return.

    “Well, it will be too late, actually for him to come back… once we close the register 21 days before primaries and submit the e-register to INEC, you can’t come from behind the door,” she said.

    She stressed that the timeline makes it impossible for new entrants to be registered and cleared to contest once the process is closed.

    Acknowledges Obi’s impact on party

    Despite her position, Usman admitted that Obi played a major role in building the Labour Party’s current profile.

    “Even me, he convinced me to come with him… many people that are in Labour Party today were convinced by Peter because we believed in equity and fairness,” she said.

    She added that no current party member commands the same level of political momentum Obi brought during the 2023 election.

    Explains defection from PDP

    Usman also spoke on her decision to leave the Peoples Democratic Party, linking it to disagreements over zoning.

    “We believed that PDP should have zoned the seat to the south… though I’m a Northerner, I felt it was not fair,” she said.

    Her stance, she noted, led to her move to the Labour Party alongside others who shared similar concerns.

    Focus on party ideology and leadership

    Looking ahead, the LP chairman said the party would return to its core principles of social justice and equal opportunity.

    She pointed to Abia State Governor Alex Otti as a leading example of the party’s ideals in practice.

    “He is what I would say is the ambassador of the Labour Party… and he’s doing very well,” she said.

    Call for political participation

    Usman also urged Nigerians, particularly activists and unionists, to participate more actively in politics.

    “If you think you’re an activist… come contest elections, because you cannot change from outside,” she said.

    The comments have added to ongoing discussions around party alignments and preparations for the next election cycle in latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today.

  • Yul Edochie Links Peter Obi’s Political Setbacks to APGA Oath, Sparks Debate

    Nollywood actor Yul Edochie has stirred fresh controversy after claiming that Peter Obi’s recent political struggles are linked to an alleged oath he took while in the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA).

    Yul makes fresh claim about Obi

    In a post shared via his X handle, Edochie alleged that Obi’s presidential ambition remains tied to APGA, insisting that leaving the party has affected his political progress.

    “Peter Obi’s Presidential ambition is tied to APGA. The party he swore he would never leave,” he wrote.

    He further claimed that Obi made a vow before party stakeholders that he would not leave the party and would struggle politically if he did.

    “Oaths are powerful” — Edochie insists

    Edochie argued that the alleged oath is responsible for Obi’s inability to secure electoral victory despite strong public support.

    “He said if he leaves APGA, he may never achieve anything politically… That’s why he hasn’t achieved anything politically since then,” he stated.

    He added that the former Anambra governor still has a chance at the presidency in 2031 but only if he returns to APGA.

    Political history and party switches

    Peter Obi, who was the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 election, secured over six million votes, finishing third in the race.

    He has since moved politically and is now associated with the African Democratic Congress (ADC), where he is seeking the presidential ticket alongside other top contenders.

    Reactions trail controversial statement

    Edochie’s comments have triggered mixed reactions online, with supporters and critics debating the role of political decisions, party structures, and personal beliefs in electoral outcomes.

    The statement has further fueled ongoing discussions around Nigeria’s evolving political landscape and future elections.

    The development is trending across latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today as conversations around the next election cycle continue.

     

  • Tinubu Moves to Waive Airlines’ Debts, Slash Ticket Charges Amid Jet A1 Crisis

    President Bola Tinubu has approved plans to waive debts owed by domestic airlines and reduce multiple charges on flight tickets, as part of urgent measures to ease pressure from the rising cost of Jet A1 fuel.

    Keyamo reveals presidency’s intervention

    Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, disclosed the development on Wednesday after a meeting with airline operators and oil marketers in Abuja.

    “I had the privilege of meeting Mr. President… The first request that he will consider and grant is a generous discount on the debts the airlines are owing aviation agencies,” Keyamo said.

    He noted that the decision affects debts owed to agencies such as NAMA, FAAN, and NCAA, with the final percentage of relief to be determined by the president.

    Fresh plan to cut ticket charges

    Keyamo also revealed that Tinubu has directed the formation of a committee to review and remove multiple levies, taxes, and fees on domestic air tickets.

    “He wants to set up a committee to address the issue of levies, taxes, and fees on domestic tickets once and for all,” the minister said.

    The committee is expected to submit recommendations within a short timeframe, with the aim of reducing costs for air travellers.

    Airlines push for full waiver

    Reacting to the proposal, Air Peace Chairman Allen Onyema urged the president to go further by approving a total waiver of all airline debts.

    He also called for a temporary suspension of payments by operators until global fuel supply stabilises.

    Onyema commended Tinubu’s responsiveness, citing the recent removal of the 4 per cent Free on Board charge as a positive step.

    Funding concerns raised

    The airline boss further highlighted the high cost of financing in Nigeria, noting that operators access loans at rates between 30 and 35 per cent, compared to about 3 per cent globally.

    “In Nigeria, we acquire at 30 to 35 per cent. This is killing,” Onyema said, urging the government to strengthen the Bank of Industry to support airlines with lower-interest funding.

    Relief expected for aviation sector

    The proposed measures are expected to provide temporary relief for airline operators and passengers amid the ongoing fuel crisis affecting flight operations across the country.

    The development is already gaining attention in latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today as stakeholders await implementation details.

  • Adebayo Adelabu Resigns as Power Minister to Pursue Oyo Governorship Bid

    Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, has resigned from the Federal Executive Council to pursue his governorship ambition in Oyo State, with his exit set to take effect on April 30, 2026.

    Resignation letter to Tinubu

    In a letter dated April 22, 2026, and addressed to President Bola Tinubu, Adelabu said his decision was taken with “a deep sense of honour and profound gratitude.”

    “I write with a deep sense of honour and profound gratitude to formally tender my resignation as the Honourable Minister of Power… This resignation is to take effect on 30th April 2026,” he stated.

    The letter was routed through the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation to allow for a smooth transition.

    Focus shifts to Oyo ambition

    Adelabu said his resignation would enable him concentrate fully on his governorship ambition in Oyo State.

    “My decision to step down is informed by my intention to focus fully on my gubernatorial ambition in Oyo State,” he wrote.

    He added that the move aligns with provisions of the Amended Electoral Act 2026, which bars political appointees from contesting elections while in office.

    Gratitude and reflections on service

    The former minister thanked President Tinubu for the opportunity to serve, describing his appointment as a privilege.

    “It has been a rare honour to contribute to national development under your leadership and to play a role in advancing reforms in the power sector,” he said.

    Adelabu also referenced his earlier resignation from the Central Bank of Nigeria in 2018 to pursue the same political ambition.

    Political implications ahead of election cycle

    His resignation signals a major shift in Oyo State politics as preparations for the next electoral cycle gather pace.

    Adelabu is expected to join the race for the governorship seat, setting the stage for intensified political activities in the state.

    The development is already drawing attention across latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today as stakeholders begin to position for the contest.

     

  • Tinubu Clarifies Exit of Wale Edun, Musa Dangiwa as Resignation, Not Sack

    The Presidency has clarified that former Finance Minister Wale Edun and former Housing Minister Ahmed Musa Dangiwa voluntarily resigned from the Federal Executive Council, insisting that neither was sacked by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    Presidency clears air on ministerial changes

    In a statement issued by Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, it was confirmed that both ministers formally tendered their resignation letters before their exits were announced.

    The statement explained that Edun, who recently turned 70, stepped down due to health-related concerns, while Dangiwa also resigned, expressing appreciation to the President for the opportunity to serve in the cabinet.

    Edun’s farewell and final engagement

    According to the Presidency, Wale Edun submitted his resignation on Monday, the same day he marked his 70th birthday, while also thanking Tinubu for the privilege of serving under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

    “It has been a pleasure and privilege to serve your administration and the Renewed Hope Agenda,” Edun wrote, adding that Nigeria had become “stronger, more resilient and more internationally respected” under Tinubu’s leadership.

    He later paid a valedictory visit to the President at the Villa, where he held an hour-long private discussion before stepping away from government duties.

    Dangiwa’s background and resignation

    Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, an architect and former Managing Director of the Federal Mortgage Bank, also confirmed his resignation, thanking the President for the opportunity to serve in the Federal Executive Council since his appointment in August 2023.

    Before joining the cabinet, Dangiwa served as Secretary to the Katsina State Government and held key roles in housing administration at the federal level.

    Presidency praises outgoing ministers

    President Tinubu expressed appreciation to both men for their contributions to ongoing economic and housing reforms, describing their service as significant to the administration’s policy direction.

    He also urged new appointees to deepen reforms and maintain focus on fiscal discipline, innovation, and economic stability.

    The development continues to generate attention across latest Nigerian news platforms and remains part of ongoing breaking news Nigeria today updates.

  • Tinubu Hosts Jonathan at Aso Rock as Details of Meeting Remain Unclear

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Wednesday held a closed-door meeting with former President Goodluck Jonathan at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, with details of their discussion yet to be made public.

    Meeting confirmed by presidency

    The development was disclosed by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, via his X (formerly Twitter) handle, confirming that the former Nigerian leader visited Tinubu at Aso Rock.

    Despite the confirmation, no official statement has been issued on the purpose or outcome of the meeting, leaving key questions unanswered.

    Jonathan’s legacy revisited

    Goodluck Ebele Jonathan served as Nigeria’s president from 2010 to 2015, a period marked by significant political developments in the country.

    He is widely remembered for conceding defeat in the 2015 presidential election to Muhammadu Buhari, becoming the first sitting Nigerian leader to lose a re-election bid and peacefully transfer power.

    Silence fuels speculation

    As of the time of filing this report, neither the presidency nor Jonathan has provided further insight into the meeting, keeping the agenda and discussions away from public view.

    The visit has already sparked interest across political circles and continues to trend in latest Nigerian news, with more updates expected in breaking news Nigeria today as details unfold.

  • Adeleke Announces Free Osogbo Concert Featuring B-Red, Davido Affiliates as Osun Politics Heat Up Ahead of 2026 Election

    Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has announced a free concert in Osogbo featuring his son, Adebayo Adeleke, popularly known as B-Red, alongside several top and emerging artistes, in what is already drawing attention amid rising political activities in the state ahead of the 2026 governorship election.

    The announcement was made shortly after the governor appointed his nephew, David Adeleke (Davido), as Head of Youth Mobilisation for his re-election campaign.

    Free concert announced for Osogbo

    In a post shared on Wednesday via his X handle, Governor Adeleke described the upcoming event as an inclusive entertainment gathering for residents across Osun State.

    “Osun, this free Concert is for each and every one of you. I am delighted to have my son @B_RedHKN, his friends in the entertainment industry, and exciting upcoming musical acts from across Osun bringing the vibes home!” he wrote.

    A poster shared by the governor also listed performers billed for the event, including Peruzzi, CDQ, Fido, Shina Peters, May D, Sinarambo, Peller, and Kolu Wahala, among others.

    “No political divide” — Adeleke insists

    Adeleke said the concert is strictly non-partisan, stressing that it is open to all residents regardless of political affiliation.

    “This Get Out to Vote Concert is for everyone in Osun State — Accord, ADC, APC, LP, PDP — no political divide, just pure Osun energy!” he added.

    He also encouraged residents to attend in large numbers, noting that entry will be free.

    The event is scheduled to hold at the Technical Field in Osogbo on Friday, April 24.

    “Come out, groove, and let your voice count!” the governor added.

    Political undertone as election season approaches

    The announcement comes as political activities intensify in Osun State ahead of the August 8, 2026 governorship election.

    Parties have begun early mobilisation and campaign positioning, with stakeholders already engaging voters across different local government areas.

    Adeleke’s blend of entertainment and political messaging is expected to draw wide public attention as the election season gathers momentum.

  • Supreme Court Reserves Judgment in PDP Faction Appeal Over Nullified 2025 National Convention

    The Supreme Court of Nigeria has reserved judgment in the appeal filed by the Kabiru Tanimu Turaki-led faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), challenging the nullification of its 2025 national convention.

    Court reserves ruling

    A five-member panel of justices led by Justice Lawal Garba announced on Wednesday that a date for judgment will be communicated to all parties after lawyers adopted their final written addresses.

    The faction is asking the apex court to overturn the March 9 ruling of the Court of Appeal, which upheld earlier decisions invalidating the PDP national convention held in Ibadan on November 15 and 16, 2025.

    PDP faction argues internal party matter

    At the Supreme Court, the Turaki-led group argued that the dispute is strictly an internal party affair and not subject to judicial intervention.

    The faction maintained that due process was followed in organising the convention and urged the court to set aside earlier rulings against it.

    Lower courts uphold nullification

    However, lower courts had consistently ruled against the faction, nullifying the convention and restraining the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from recognising its outcome.

    The courts also issued orders affecting access to the party’s national secretariat amid the leadership dispute.

    The Court of Appeal had earlier upheld two Federal High Court judgments in Abuja that barred the PDP from proceeding with the convention until it complied with provisions of the Electoral Act and the 2022 Regulations and Guidelines for Political Parties.

    Key court findings

    In one ruling, Justice James Omotosho held that the party failed to conduct valid state congresses as required by law and its constitution, rendering the convention invalid.

    In another decision, Justice Peter Lifu barred the party from proceeding with the exercise until former Jigawa State Governor, Sule Lamido, was allowed to participate in the national chairmanship race.

    The court found that Lamido was unjustly excluded from the process.

    Background to the dispute

    The legal challenge was initiated by aggrieved PDP members, including state executives from Imo, Abia, and the South-South region.

    The cases have deepened the party’s internal leadership crisis, which is now awaiting final resolution at the Supreme Court.