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  • Obi Warns Against Ethnic Profiling, Defends Fulani Community

    The 2027 presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has raised concerns over what he described as growing ethnic profiling targeting the Fulani community and other ethnic groups in Nigeria.

    Obi made the remarks in a statement posted on his verified X account on Monday, where he said Nigerians must stop linking crime to ethnicity.

    Obi Speaks on Ethnic Stereotyping

    The former Anambra State governor said he has personally experienced stereotypes and labelling because of his Igbo identity, adding that many Nigerians face similar treatment.

    According to him, such experiences show a wider national problem where individuals are judged based on ethnicity rather than personal conduct.

    He also expressed concern about the unfair treatment of ordinary Fulani people who are often associated with crimes they have no connection to.

    “Crime Has No Ethnicity”

    Obi stressed that criminals should be identified by their actions and not their ethnic backgrounds.

    “A thief is a thief, a terrorist is a terrorist, and a kidnapper is a kidnapper,” he said, adding that offenders must be held accountable under the law regardless of origin.

    He argued that every ethnic group in Nigeria has its own culture and contributions, warning that crime should never be generalised or attributed to entire communities.

    Reference to Global Civil Rights Struggles

    Drawing comparisons with the civil rights movement in the United States, Obi referenced Martin Luther King Jr.’s call for people to be judged based on character rather than race.

    He said Nigeria must embrace similar values of fairness, justice and mutual respect to strengthen national unity.

    Call for National Unity

    Obi urged Nigerians to reject narratives that promote ethnic blame, warning that such attitudes deepen division and weaken social cohesion.

    He called for greater appreciation of Nigeria’s diversity and renewed commitment to justice and national integration.

    The statement has added to ongoing conversations around insecurity, ethnic relations and national unity in the country.

  • Sowore Reveals What He Would Do on Day One as President

    Human rights activist and African Action Congress (AAC) presidential hopeful, Omoyele Sowore, has outlined what his administration would prioritise immediately if elected president in 2027, promising swift action on electricity, security, education and healthcare.

    Speaking during a recent interview, Sowore said Nigeria’s challenges require urgent and simultaneous interventions rather than gradual reforms.

    Sowore Promises Immediate Reforms

    According to the AAC leader, his administration would begin addressing key national issues from the first day in office.

    “I’ll start growing electricity on the first day, we’ll be fighting to ensure that this security problem is resolved immediately, using technology, using medium and long-term strategies,” he said.

    He added that education and healthcare funding would also commence immediately.

    “We are going to start funding education on the first day, we are going to start funding health care, we are fixing our roads, starting from the first day,” Sowore stated.

    Rejects Celebration of First 100 Days

    The former presidential candidate also criticised the tradition of celebrating a government’s first 100 days in office.

    According to him, public officials should be focused on delivering results rather than marking milestones.

    “You are not going to see me. In fact, if anybody puts a newspaper advert celebrating my 100 days in office, I’ll find the person and make sure you never do that nonsense again,” he said.

    Sowore added that any member of his cabinet involved in such celebrations would lose their position.

    “And if you are in my cabinet, you are fired on that day,” he stated.

    Calls for Multiple Solutions

    Sowore argued that Nigeria’s problems cannot be solved through a single policy or programme.

    He maintained that his administration would pursue several reforms simultaneously because citizens are already facing severe hardship.

    “That means you don’t have work if you are waiting for 100 days before counting achievements. People are already dying before you are elected into office,” he said.

    The activist concluded that a combination of solutions, rather than one major intervention, would be necessary to tackle Nigeria’s economic and social challenges.

     

  • Iyabo Obasanjo Quits APC, Cites Rejection Over Ogun Governorship Process

    Former senator and governorship aspirant, Iyabo Obasanjo, has resigned from the All Progressives Congress (APC), citing what she described as persistent rejection, disrespect and unfair treatment by the party’s leadership in Ogun State.

    The former lawmaker announced her resignation in a letter dated May 31 and addressed to the Ogun State APC Chairman, Chief Yemi Sanusi.

    Obasanjo Faults Candidate Selection Process

    Obasanjo criticised the process that produced Solomon Adeola as the party’s preferred governorship candidate, arguing that the consensus arrangement did not follow APC guidelines.

    She said she had committed to supporting any candidate that emerged through a genuine consensus process but was not consulted before Adeola was announced.

    According to her, some of her supporters were denied access to the venue where the candidate was unveiled and were allegedly intimidated during the exercise.

    “I committed myself to supporting any candidate that emerged through a consensus arrangement, but I was not consulted before Senator Adeola was announced,” she stated.

    Claims of Continued Disrespect

    Despite her reservations, Obasanjo said she accepted the outcome in the interest of party unity and publicly congratulated Adeola after his emergence.

    She disclosed that the senator later met with her supporters, who presented three demands during the meeting.

    However, she claimed that although a response was promised within a week, more than two months had passed without any feedback.

    According to her, the silence reinforced what she described as a pattern of disregard and lack of appreciation for her contributions to the party.

    Return to Politics Ends With Exit

    Obasanjo expressed appreciation to Bola Tinubu, the Ogun APC leadership and party stakeholders for their support during her time in the party.

    The former senator returned to active politics earlier this year after registering as an APC member in Ifo Local Government Area of Ogun State.

    She previously served as Ogun State Commissioner for Health between 2003 and 2007 before representing Ogun Central Senatorial District in the Senate from 2007 to 2011.

    After largely staying away from politics for several years, she signalled a return to public life in late 2025 when campaign billboards promoting her governorship ambition appeared across parts of Ogun State.

  • Makinde Restricts Night Okada Operations Across Oyo Over Rising Insecurity

    Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has restricted the operations of commercial motorcycle operators, popularly known as Okada riders, between 10:30 p.m. and 5:30 a.m. across the state as part of new security measures to address rising insecurity.

    The directive was announced during a statewide broadcast on Friday, June 5, following growing concerns over recent abductions in Oriire Local Government Area.

    Makinde Introduces Fresh Security Measures

    The governor said the decision was part of broader efforts to strengthen security operations and support ongoing rescue missions aimed at securing the release of abducted teachers and students.

    He assured residents that the state government remained fully committed to ensuring the safe return of the victims.

    “We will not relent until our teachers and children are returned safely home,” Makinde said.

    He added that although details of the rescue operations could not be disclosed, security agencies were actively working to secure the victims.

    “We may not be able to disclose every step being taken because of the sensitive nature of the operations involved… A great deal of work is being done behind the scenes,” he stated.

    Okada Ban to Take Effect Nightly

    Makinde announced that commercial motorcycle operations would be restricted during night hours across the state.

    “With the signing of this Executive Order… the operations of commercial motorcycle operators, popularly known as Okada riders, will now be restricted between the hours of 10:30 p.m. and 5:30 a.m. throughout Oyo State,” he said.

    He urged residents to cooperate with security agencies, stressing that security requires collective responsibility.

    “If you see something, say something, and the authorities will do something,” the governor added.

    Insecurity Concerns in Oyo State

    The decision comes weeks after suspected bandits attacked three schools in Oriire Local Government Area on May 15, abducting about 39 students and seven teachers.

    The situation escalated after one of the kidnapped teachers was reportedly killed by the abductors, sparking widespread outrage and protests by teachers and concerned groups across the state.

    A viral video showing one of the abducted school principals appealing for intervention further intensified public pressure on the government to act swiftly.

     

     

  • State Police Constitutional Amendment Near as Tinubu Government Advances Framework

    The Presidency has announced significant progress toward the establishment of state police, revealing that a constitutional amendment to support the initiative is expected soon.

    Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, disclosed this on Thursday after a high-level consultative meeting on state police held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.

    Presidency Reports Progress on State Police

    Speaking to State House Correspondents, Gbajabiamila said discussions on the framework for state police began several months ago following a directive from President Bola Tinubu.

    He explained that while there is widespread support for the initiative, the process requires careful consideration of constitutional and legal issues before implementation.

    “We started deliberations in the last three or four months on how to go about the establishment of state police as directed by Mr President,” he said.

    “Establishing state police is not something that you do with the snap of the fingers. There is a lot involved in terms of constitution and legalities, and thank God we have now gained a lot of traction.”

    Constitutional Amendment Under Consideration

    According to Gbajabiamila, discussions have advanced to the stage of considering the constitutional amendments required to create a legal foundation for state police.

    He noted that the enabling legislation would follow once the constitutional amendment process is completed.

    “Hopefully, the amendment will come shortly, and the details of the amendment will come after that,” he added.

    “Right now, what we are looking at is the constitutional amendment itself, and then the enabling law would follow thereafter.”

    Tinubu to Receive Report

    The Chief of Staff said President Tinubu would receive a detailed report on the outcome of the consultations.

    He stressed that the national conversation has largely shifted from whether state police should exist to how the institution should be structured and regulated.

    Gbajabiamila also reiterated that the initiative is aimed at improving grassroots security, enhancing intelligence gathering and strengthening the ability of state governments to tackle security threats.

    Top Officials Attend Meeting

    The meeting was attended by several senior government officials, including Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau, Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, Attorney-General of the Federation Lateef Fagbemi, and Inspector-General of Police Tunji Disu.

    The Federal Government has held a series of consultations on the proposal as part of efforts to address Nigeria’s growing security challenges through a decentralised policing structure.

  • Fayose Stands By Claim Linking Makinde to Oyo School Kidnap

    Former Ekiti State Governor Ayo Fayose has reaffirmed his controversial comments suggesting that Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde may have questions to answer over the recent abduction of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area.

    Fayose made the remarks during an interview on EKTV, saying he had no regrets over his earlier comments despite the backlash they generated.

    Fayose Refuses to Retract Statement

    Speaking in a mix of English and Yoruba, Fayose said his experience as a former governor informed his position on security matters.

    He maintained that he understood how security challenges should be handled and insisted he was speaking based on his convictions.

    “I stand by what I said about Governor Makinde. I was a Governor too and I handled security issues very well. I used my security very well,” Fayose said.

    His latest comments come days after he alleged that the kidnapping of pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area could have been politically motivated.

    Earlier Allegation Against Makinde

    Fayose had made the initial allegation during an interview on Channels Television, where he suggested that the kidnapping incident may have been orchestrated to embarrass President Bola Tinubu.

    The former governor argued that the timing of the abduction raised suspicions and questioned whether political interests could be behind the incident.

    His comments generated widespread reactions from political observers and members of the public.

    Tinubu Will Win, Fayose Says

    During the EKTV interview, Fayose also expressed confidence in President Tinubu’s political strength ahead of future elections.

    According to him, politicians seeking to remove Tinubu through political tactics should instead wait for the next election cycle.

    “Anyone who wants Tinubu out should wait until we get to the field and let the votes speak. Tinubu will beat them all silly,” he said.

    He added that using security challenges as a political weapon would not produce the desired outcome.

    Kidnap Crisis Continues

    The controversy comes as concerns continue over the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

    Security agencies have intensified efforts to rescue the victims, while political leaders and stakeholders continue to debate the circumstances surrounding the incident.

  • Accord Party Chairman Hospitalised After Gunmen Attack in Osun

    Asimiyu Ajibola, Chairman of the Accord Party in Osun State, is receiving treatment at the University of Osun Teaching Hospital after surviving a gun attack by suspected assassins in Osogbo.

    The incident occurred late Wednesday night in the MDS area of the state capital, prompting the Osun State Police Command to launch an investigation.

    Police Confirm Attack

    In a statement issued on Thursday, the Police Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Ojelabi, said the attack happened at about 11:50 p.m. when two armed men riding a motorcycle opened fire on Ajibola.

    According to the police, the assailants fled the scene immediately after the shooting.

    “Upon receiving the distress report, the police immediately mobilised tactical and conventional teams to the scene,” the statement said.

    “A team of police officers swiftly evacuated the victim to a medical facility where he is currently receiving treatment.”

    Victim Responding to Treatment

    The police disclosed that medical personnel confirmed Ajibola was in stable condition and responding positively to treatment.

    Investigators also recovered exhibits from the scene, which have been sent for forensic analysis as part of efforts to identify those behind the attack.

    The command said operatives have launched a manhunt for the suspects and are working to ensure their arrest and prosecution.

    Commissioner Orders Full Investigation

    Osun State Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Gotan, condemned the attack and directed relevant units to intensify investigations.

    “He has directed all relevant investigative units to deploy every available resource to unravel the circumstances surrounding the attack, identify those responsible, and ensure their prompt arrest and prosecution,” Ojelabi stated.

    The police assured residents that no stone would be left unturned in the investigation and appealed to members of the public to provide useful information that could aid ongoing efforts.

    Rising Security Concerns

    The attack comes amid growing security concerns across parts of the South-West region.

    On Wednesday, gunmen abducted Olaide John-Paul, younger sister of former Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, alongside her twin sons in Ibadan, Oyo State.

    A day earlier, gunmen reportedly attacked a Nigeria Immigration Service office in Ogbomoso and carted away a rifle, ammunition and other valuables.

  • Oluremi Tinubu Promises Cars to APC Women Leaders Amid Rising Insecurity

    Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, on Wednesday inaugurated the Tinubu Torchbearers (TTB), a grassroots mobilisation group aimed at strengthening women’s participation in the ruling All Progressives Congress ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    The event took place at the State House Banquet Hall in the Presidential Villa, Abuja, and attracted APC women leaders and stakeholders from across the country.

    Eight Buses Donated to New Group

    During the inauguration, the First Lady donated eight coaster buses to support the group’s mobilisation and outreach activities in promoting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

    The programme was organised under the leadership of APC National Women Leader, Mary Alile Idele, and was attended by the wife of Vice President Kashim Shettima, alongside other party leaders.

    Vehicles Promised to APC Women Leaders

    Oluremi Tinubu also announced that brand-new vehicles would be provided to APC women leaders in Abia, Anambra, Bauchi, Osun and Oyo states.

    She stated that the vehicles would be registered in the names of the beneficiaries, making them their personal property.

    The First Lady urged party women leaders to actively engage with communities and promote the achievements of the current administration from the grassroots level.

    Call for Grassroots Mobilisation

    Addressing participants, she encouraged women to strengthen the party’s presence across wards and polling units nationwide while supporting efforts to expand women’s involvement in politics and governance.

    According to her, grassroots mobilisation remains critical to sustaining the administration’s programmes and connecting government policies with local communities.

    Mixed Reactions Trail Launch

    The inauguration has generated reactions on social media, with some critics questioning the timing of the initiative amid ongoing concerns over insecurity and recent school abductions in parts of the country.

    Supporters, however, described the programme as an empowerment initiative designed to strengthen women’s political participation and improve party structures ahead of future elections.

    The APC said the Tinubu Torchbearers platform would focus on national development, political mobilisation and increasing women’s representation in the political process.

  • Oshiomhole Challenges Akpabio, Demands Action on Insecurity During Senate Session

    Former Edo State governor and senator representing Edo North, Adams Oshiomhole, has criticised the Senate leadership over the worsening security situation in the country, questioning the implementation of resolutions aimed at addressing insecurity and military accountability.

    Oshiomhole made the remarks during plenary on Wednesday while senators debated recent attacks by bandits and kidnappers across different parts of the country.

    Questions Unimplemented Senate Resolution

    During his contribution, Oshiomhole recalled an earlier Senate resolution directing military authorities to identify and sanction an officer allegedly linked to the withdrawal of troops from a school in Kebbi State before a major abduction incident.

    The senator expressed frustration that the Senate had yet to receive any official feedback on the resolution despite several sittings since it was passed.

    According to him, lawmakers have a responsibility to ensure that resolutions passed by the chamber are implemented and not ignored.

    Raises Concerns Over Accountability

    Oshiomhole argued that insecurity cannot be effectively addressed without accountability within the nation’s security institutions.

    He questioned the effectiveness of oversight efforts and warned that repeated resolutions would have little impact if government agencies failed to act on them.

    The lawmaker also called for greater scrutiny of security spending, insisting that Nigerians deserve to know whether resources allocated to defence and security are producing tangible results.

    Calls for Stronger Action Against Insecurity

    Speaking on recent attacks in different parts of the country, Oshiomhole lamented the continued loss of lives to banditry, kidnapping and other violent crimes.

    He maintained that citizens expect practical solutions rather than repeated condemnations whenever attacks occur.

    The senator stressed that decisive action and accountability are necessary to restore public confidence in the country’s security architecture.

    Debate Reflects Growing Concerns

    The remarks come amid renewed concerns over insecurity following recent attacks and abductions in several states.

    While the Senate has repeatedly called on security agencies to intensify efforts against criminal groups, critics have continued to question the effectiveness of legislative resolutions in tackling the crisis.

  • Aisha Yesufu Confronts NDC Leaders Over FCT Senate Ticket Dispute

    Prominent activist and politician Aisha Yesufu has publicly challenged leaders of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) over what she described as irregularities in the party’s process for selecting its Federal Capital Territory (FCT) senatorial candidate ahead of the 2027 elections.

    A video circulating on social media shows Yesufu confronting party officials at the NDC secretariat in Abuja, demanding explanations over decisions that allegedly altered the original primary election arrangements.

    Dispute Over FCT Senate Primary

    Yesufu, who joined the NDC in May 2026 after leaving the African Democratic Congress (ADC), had declared her intention to contest for the FCT Senate seat.

    However, she later withdrew from the race, alleging that the primary election process was manipulated through repeated postponements, venue changes and a shift from a planned direct primary to a delegate-based system.

    According to her, the changes created an uneven playing field and ultimately favoured another aspirant.

    In the video, Yesufu is seen addressing party leaders and questioning the handling of communications surrounding the nomination process.

    Raises Concerns About Internal Democracy

    Speaking during the confrontation, Yesufu expressed disappointment over what she described as a lack of transparency within the party.

    She said her name had been subjected to public criticism during the process but noted that she initially chose not to speak publicly in order to preserve party unity.

    Despite her grievances, the activist maintained that her concerns were about strengthening democratic practices within the opposition movement rather than pursuing personal interests.

    Withdraws From Race

    Following the controversy, Yesufu confirmed her withdrawal from the senatorial contest, arguing that the process violated principles of fairness and undermined confidence in internal party democracy.

    She stated that while she disagreed with the outcome, she would not immediately seek legal redress.

    Instead, she said her focus remains on supporting opposition efforts ahead of the 2027 elections.

    Mixed Reactions Trail Incident

    The confrontation has generated varied reactions among political observers and supporters.

    While some praised Yesufu for demanding accountability from party leaders, others argued that internal negotiations and political compromises are common features of party politics.

    The NDC has yet to issue a detailed response to the allegations raised by Yesufu.