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  • FCT Area Council Elections: Wike Hails President Tinubu for Creating Enabling Environment for Success

    FCT Area Council Elections: Wike Hails President Tinubu for Creating Enabling Environment for Success

    … Says Nigerians now know the Ruling and Real Opposition Party

    By Joyce Remi – Babayeju

    The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike has hailed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for creating an enabling environment for the peaceful conduct of Saturday’s Area Council elections, describing the outcome as having shown Nigerians the ruling party and the real opposition party in the country.

    In a special broadcast on national television and radio stations on Sunday evening, the minister said the peaceful conduct of the election was a testament to the commitment of the people of the FCT to democracy and good governance.

    The minister, who said the election further exposed the hypocrisy of people who go about buying corn and groundnut from roadside sellers for the purpose of campaigning just to deceive Nigerians, added that “the residents of FCT demonstrated that they cannot be deceived by emergency democrats, who have chosen not to see anything good in our country and its government.”

    He thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the development he has brought to the FCT, adding that the election is a reflection of the president’s vision and leadership and a testimony that the Renewed Hope Agenda has brought optimism and confidence to the people of the FCT.

    The broadcast read in part, “The peaceful conduct of the election is a testament to the commitment of the people of the FCT to democracy and good governance. I thank the residents for believing in the renewed and credible democratic process being championed by the government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.

    “To all the candidates who participated in the election, I commend your belief in our democracy. Your participation is proof of your commitment to ensuring that the voice of the minority is heard, even when it is the majority that will always have its way.

    “Most especially, I congratulate the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) for their victories.

    “This election has indeed shown that Nigerians now know the ruling party and the real opposition party.

    “Also, the election has further exposed the hypocrisy of people who go about buying corn and groundnuts from roadside sellers for the purpose of campaigning just to deceive Nigerians. Yesterday, the residents of the FCT demonstrated that they cannot be deceived by emergency democrats, who have chosen not to see anything good in our country and its government.

    “I thank Mr. President for the development he has brought to the FCT. This election is a reflection of the president’s vision and leadership and a testimony that the Renewed Hope Agenda has brought optimism and confidence to the people of the FCT.

    “No doubt, the commitment of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to improving the lives of Nigerians, particularly the residents of the FCT, has not gone unnoticed. The Renewed Hope Agenda has given us hope for a brighter future, and we are confident that under his leadership, the FCT will continue to be a model of development and progress.

    “Most especially, I commend the President for standing firm in his defense of democracy, particularly in ensuring the amendment of the Electoral Act to strengthen the conduct of credible elections. This demonstrates his commitment to improving our democratic process.

    “Now, I also congratulate the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for conducting a free, fair, and credible election. This is a reflection of President Tinubu’s commitment to strengthening our democratic institutions and ensuring that our electoral processes are transparent and reliable.

    “I commend the security agencies for their dedication to duty, ensuring the peaceful conduct of the election. Their efforts have contributed to the success of this democratic exercise.

    “To the winners of the elections, I congratulate you on your victory. You have been given a mandate to serve the people, and I urge you to do so with humility, dedication, and commitment to excellence. Work tirelessly to improve the lives of the residents and bring development to our communities.

    “To the residents of the FCT, especially those in the satellite towns, I once again commend you for coming out in large numbers to exercise your franchise and for doing so in a peaceful and orderly manner. Your participation affirms your trust in our democracy and I urge you to continue to support the government in its efforts to build a better FCT.

    “As an administration, we pledge to continue to deliver the dividends of democracy to FCT residents, in accordance with the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr. President.”

    End

  • Ramadan, Lenten Seasons: NOA Warns Traders Against Creating Artificial Scarcity of Staple Food Items

    Ramadan, Lenten Seasons: NOA Warns Traders Against Creating Artificial Scarcity of Staple Food Items

    By Joyce Remi – Babayeju

    The Director General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, has warned traders and market operators across the country against creating artificial scarcity , hoarding of food thereby causing inflation of prices of essential food items during the holy month of Ramadan and lenten seasons.

    This was following reports thr NOA Director General recieved concerning reports indicating that certain marketers are deliberately withholding staple commodities commonly consumed during fasting period thereby creating artificial scarcity and driving up prices to the detriment of ordinary Nigerians.

    Issa – Onilu said that such practices are not only economically disruptive but morally indefensible, particularly during a sacred season that emphasises compassion, sacrifice, generosity, and social responsibility.

    “This is a period that calls for reflection, charity, and empathy for the less privileged. It is deeply troubling that some individuals would exploit this spiritual moment for excessive profit-making at the expense of vulnerable citizens,” the DG stated.

    He noted that the deliberate hoarding of food items undermines national efforts at economic stability, fuels inflation, and places avoidable hardship on families already navigating challenging economic realities.

    The DG of NOA reiterated that responsible market conduct is a patriotic duty and a moral obligation.

    He emphasised that fairness, transparency, and moderation in pricing are aligned with both national values and religious teachings.

    He therefore urged trade associations, market unions, and commodity groups to exercise internal regulatory discipline by discouraging exploitative behaviour among their members.

    Furthermore, he called for collaboration with relevant regulatory authorities to ensure compliance with ethical market standards.

    The NOA boss reaffirmed the Agency’s commitment to sustained sensitisation campaigns across all states and local government areas, promoting value reorientation, economic responsibility, and national cohesion.

    He appealed to marketers to see Ramadan and Lent as opportunities to demonstrate integrity and social conscience rather than a window for opportunistic gain.

    The National Orientation Agency affirmed it will continue monitor developments and engage stakeholders to safeguard the welfare of citizens and uphold the values that strengthen our national fabric.
    End

  • Gov Eno’s late wife’s Foundation empowers 53,000 in A’ibom

    Gov Eno’s late wife’s Foundation empowers 53,000 in A’ibom

    By Ogenyi Ogenyi,Uyo

    At least persons in Akwa Ibom has benefitted from various empowerment programmes of the Golden Initiative For All (GIFA) in the last two years,.

    GIFA was founded by the late wife of Governor Umo Eno, Mrs Patience Eno who passed on two years ago.

    Mrs Helen Obareki, Chairman, Board of Trustees, made this known in an address marking the second anniversary celebration of GIFA in Uyo last weekend.

    Obareki, who is also the Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady of Akwa Ibom said that GIFA would sustain the legacy of her mother, late Patience Eno, founder of the initiative.

    “I bear this responsibility with resolve and determination, because I am inspired by the grace of God and the tenacity not to let down my parents and the good people of Akwa Ibom State.

    “To put it briefly, a total of 53,987 lives have been touched and impacted by GIFA across Akwa Ibom State in the last two years.

    “The breakdown is as follows; Maternal and Child Healthcare – 9,776 mothers and children reached.

    “Enhancing Literacy and Learning, 19,587 adults and pupils of public schools impacted.

    “Improving Environmental Health, 13 Water of Life borehole projects completed in 13 LGAs;
    Women Empowerment – 5,064 women empowered.

    “Fight Against Diseases – 4,900 rural women and children benefited from our Wheels of Hope Medical Outreach.

    “Prevention and Response – 1,020 survivors of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) were reached and rehabilitated by GIFA during the period under review,” Obareki said.

    According to her, the impact of GIFA across the state has been tremendous but added that in spite of the achievements, she was aware that there was still much work to be done to help the vulnerable.

    In his remarks, Gov Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom said though he would continue to mourn her late wife, thanked God for her life, though short.

    Eno said he took solace on the lives the late wife touched through her pet project, GIFA.

    He expressed appreciation to the coordinator, office of the first lady for the remarkable achievements recorded in two years.

  • Gov Eno’s Late Wife’s Foundation Empowers 53,987 in Akwa Ibom

    By Ogenyi Ogenyi, Uyo

    No fewer than 53,987 persons have benefited from various empowerment programmes of the Golden Initiative For All (GIFA) in the last two years in Akwa Ibom State.

    GIFA was founded by the late wife of Akwa Ibom State Governor, , Mrs. Patience Eno, who passed away two years ago.

    Chairman of the Board of Trustees of GIFA, Mrs. Helen Obareki, disclosed this during activities marking the second anniversary of the foundation in Uyo at the weekend. Obareki, who also serves as Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady of Akwa Ibom State, said the initiative would continue to sustain the legacy of its founder.

    “I bear this responsibility with resolve and determination because I am inspired by the grace of God and the tenacity not to let down my parents and the good people of Akwa Ibom State,” she said.

    Providing a breakdown of the beneficiaries, Obareki stated that 9,776 mothers and children were reached under the Maternal and Child Healthcare programme. Under Enhancing Literacy and Learning, 19,587 adults and pupils in public schools were impacted.

    She added that 13 “Water of Life” borehole projects were completed across 13 local government areas under the Environmental Health initiative. A total of 5,064 women benefited from the Women Empowerment programme, while 4,900 rural women and children were reached through the Wheels of Hope Medical Outreach under the Fight Against Diseases initiative.

    In addition, 1,020 survivors of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) were supported and rehabilitated through the foundation’s Prevention and Response programme.

    Obareki described the impact of GIFA across the state as significant but noted that more work remains to support vulnerable groups.

    In his remarks, Governor said that although he continues to mourn his late wife, he is grateful to God for her life and legacy. He said he takes solace in the lives she touched through her pet project, GIFA.

    The governor also commended the Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady and the foundation’s leadership for sustaining the initiative and achieving remarkable milestones within two years.

  • Community Self-Defense Groups in Nigeria: Solution or Future Security Risk?

    By Daudu Agaba Andrew Samuel

    As insecurity continues to stretch Nigeria’s formal security forces, community self-defense groups are filling a widening protection gap across several states. From vigilantes in the South-West to local militias in parts of the North-Central and North-West, these groups are increasingly becoming the first line of defense against banditry, kidnapping and communal violence. While many communities credit them with restoring a measure of safety, their growing influence also raises troubling questions about accountability, legality and long-term national security.

    The rise of these groups reflects deep public frustration with the state’s inability to guarantee basic security. In rural areas and poorly policed urban settlements, residents often wait hours or days for security forces to respond to distress calls. In that vacuum, locally organised vigilante units have emerged to patrol neighbourhoods, gather intelligence and confront criminals directly. In some communities, their presence has reportedly reduced petty crime and deterred kidnappers.

    State governments have increasingly embraced these initiatives, either formally or informally. In the South-West, was established in 2020 by six state governments to complement federal security agencies in tackling kidnapping and violent crime. Supporters argue that its familiarity with local terrain and languages has strengthened intelligence gathering and rapid response in rural communities.

    In the North-East, the (CJTF) emerged at the height of the insurgency by as a community-based support force for the military. CJTF members assisted in identifying insurgents and securing neighbourhoods, contributing to the recovery of territory in parts of Borno State. Over time, some units have been absorbed into formal security structures or placed on stipends by state governments.

    Hisbah groups, operating mainly in Kano, Zamfara and other northern states, represent another model of community enforcement. The corps, established to support moral regulation and social order in states operating Sharia law, have engaged in traffic control, dispute mediation and crime prevention. However, their operations have also generated legal and constitutional debates, particularly when their activities intersect with federal law enforcement responsibilities.

    In North-Central states such as Benue, community vigilantes have formed in response to repeated attacks on farming communities. Local leaders say these groups provide early warnings and escort farmers to their fields. Similar formations have appeared in Zamfara, where residents organise patrols to defend villages against bandit raids.

    Despite their perceived effectiveness, the expansion of community self-defense groups presents serious risks. Many operate without clear legal frameworks, defined command structures or standardized training. This lack of regulation increases the likelihood of abuses. Allegations of extrajudicial killings, torture and extortion by vigilante members have surfaced in several states, undermining the rule of law and eroding public trust.

    Ethnic and communal tensions further complicate the landscape. In multi-ethnic regions, locally rooted militias are often viewed with suspicion by minority groups, who fear they may act as instruments of ethnic dominance rather than neutral protectors. In some instances, vigilante units have been accused of profiling or targeting outsiders, aggravating inter-communal tensions and fueling cycles of retaliation.

    There is also the long-term danger of militarisation. Once armed and organised, community groups rarely disband easily. Without firm oversight, they risk evolving into criminal gangs or political enforcers. Nigeria’s history offers cautionary lessons, including militant movements in the Niger Delta and political thugs mobilised during elections and later abandoned.

    Supporters, however, argue that inaction poses the greater threat. With police-to-citizen ratios far below international standards and military deployments overstretched, many communities insist they have little choice but to protect themselves. From this standpoint, vigilantes are not a threat to the state but a symptom of state weakness.

    The Federal Government has yet to articulate a comprehensive national framework governing community policing and vigilante groups. While official rhetoric supports community policing, implementation has remained slow and fragmented, complicated by jurisdictional tensions between federal and state authorities.

    Ultimately, the central issue is not whether community self-defense groups should exist, but under what conditions. Without clear regulation, structured training, defined accountability mechanisms and coordinated oversight, Nigeria risks substituting one security crisis for another. Formal integration into a regulated community policing architecture, alongside strict monitoring and disarmament protocols, could help harness their local knowledge while limiting potential abuses.

    Until such measures are in place, community self-defense groups will remain both a lifeline and a liability — offering immediate protection for vulnerable communities while posing long-term challenges to Nigeria’s fragile security framework.

    Daudu Agaba Andrew Samuel is a graduate of International Relations from Covenant University and a serving Corps Member with the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR), Abuja.

  • Motorists, Road Users Seek Increased Funding for (FERMA)

    Motorists, Road Users Seek Increased Funding for (FERMA)

    By Jabiru Hassan

    Motorists and other road users have called on the Federal Government to provide increased financial support to the (FERMA) to strengthen its efforts in maintaining federal highways and safeguarding lives and property.

    Our correspondent, who conducted a series of interactive sessions with drivers and passengers at the Kano Central Motor Park, reports that respondents described FERMA as one of the most important agencies working tirelessly to improve road safety across the country.

    Malam Dauda Mohammed, a mini-truck driver, said the agency has remained committed to ensuring that federal roads are motorable for all categories of vehicles. He noted that from visible repair works across major highways, FERMA is increasingly gaining recognition among Nigerians.

    Similarly, Auwal Musa, a commercial bus driver, stressed that the agency deserves more funding to rehabilitate dilapidated roads across the six geopolitical zones of the country. According to him, improved budgetary allocation would enable FERMA to enhance road infrastructure and reduce accidents linked to poor road conditions.

    The road users therefore urged the Federal Government and the National Assembly to make adequate financial provisions for the agency, describing its intervention in road repairs as critical to national development and public safety.

  • BIPOGA: Zone 17 Wins 4x400m Relay in Female, Male Categories

    BIPOGA: Zone 17 Wins 4x400m Relay in Female, Male Categories

    By Anne Azuka

    Zone 17 has emerged champion in both the female and male 4×400 metres relay finals at the ongoing 15th Biennial Police Games (BIPOGA) in Asaba, Delta State.

    The finals, held at the Stephen Keshi Stadium, saw Zone 17 clinch gold in the female category with a time of 4:30.89 seconds and also top the male category with a winning time of 3:24.93 seconds.

    Force Headquarters finished second in both events, posting 4:35.28 seconds in the female relay and 3:34.43 seconds in the male category.

    Zone 11 secured third position in the female category with a time of 5:19.05 seconds, while Zone 2 claimed bronze in the male event after clocking 3:40.62 seconds.

    Speaking after the race, Omotosho Oluwaseun, a member of the victorious Zone 17 female team, expressed gratitude to God and commended her teammates for their unity and determination, attributing their success to teamwork and dedication.

    Similarly, Police Constable Solomon Daniel of Zone 17, who ran alongside Nelson Joseph, Samuel Saliu and Titilayo Damilare in the male relay team, expressed appreciation for the encouragement received from colleagues, friends and family.

    “It feels good to be among the champions. This is my first time competing in the Police Games. I am grateful for the support and thankful to my teammates. God bless Nigeria,” he said.

    Meanwhile, ahead of Saturday’s closing ceremony, finals in other events, including football and scrabble, are expected to be decided.

    As of the time of filing this report, Force Headquarters lead the overall medals table with over 140 medals.

  • Nigeria national football team 2026 WCQ Campaign Over on Pitch, FIFA Case Still Pending

    Nigeria national football team 2026 WCQ Campaign Over on Pitch, FIFA Case Still Pending

    Nigeria’s Super Eagles have officially concluded their on-field journey in the race to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, but a legal battle at FIFA could yet alter their fate.

    According to reports, Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko, confirmed that while Nigeria’s campaign has ended competitively, proceedings regarding a complaint against DR Congo remain active.

    The Nigeria Football Federation had submitted a formal petition to FIFA, alleging that DR Congo fielded ineligible players during the African play-off final. FIFA’s independent adjudicating bodies are currently reviewing the submission, with a verdict expected in the coming weeks.

    Dikko: Legal Process Still Alive

    Speaking after a meeting with President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa, Dikko clarified the situation:

    “While our Super Eagles’ journey in the 2026 World Cup has concluded on the pitch, the legal proceedings are still ongoing. FIFA’s independent bodies will determine the final outcome.”

    He explained that although Nigeria can no longer continue competing based on match results, a favorable ruling from FIFA could potentially reinstate the team into the intercontinental play-offs scheduled for March.

    Awaiting FIFA’s Decision

    Dikko urged supporters to remain calm and patient, stressing that both the NSC and the NFF are closely following developments.

    “We must allow the proper channels to operate. This is a sensitive matter, and we trust FIFA to handle it fairly,” he added.

    The final outcome of the case will determine whether Nigeria’s qualification hopes can be revived through administrative action. Until FIFA delivers its ruling, players, officials, and fans remain in suspense over what has become one of the most closely watched disputes in African football.

    Despite the setback on the field, Dikko reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to protecting Nigeria’s interests and ensuring that all available legal avenues are fully explored.

  • Ogun State Police Command Detain TikToker Mirabel Over Alleged False Assault Claim

    Ogun State Police Command Detain TikToker Mirabel Over Alleged False Assault Claim

    Popular Nigerian TikTok personality Mirabel has been taken into custody by the Ogun State Police Command as investigators probe claims that she may have fabricated a rape allegation that recently went viral online.

    The Command’s spokesperson, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, confirmed on Friday that the influencer is currently being held for questioning while authorities work to establish the facts surrounding her report.

    “She is with us now and investigation is ongoing,” Babaseyi said, adding that the outcome of the case would depend entirely on the evidence gathered. When asked whether she could face charges for making a false report, he declined to speculate, stating, “The facts will tell at the conclusion of our investigation.”

    How the Case Unfolded

    Mirabel, known on TikTok as @mirab351, had earlier posted a series of emotional videos alleging that an unidentified man broke into her home on February 15 and sexually assaulted her. In the footage, she claimed the attacker boasted of powerful family connections that would shield him from prosecution.

    Her claims triggered widespread outrage across Nigerian social media, with many demanding swift action against the alleged perpetrator.

    Following the viral posts, the Commissioner of Police directed the Ibafo Division to locate her. At the initial stage, she was treated as a complainant and provided with medical and psychological support due to her visible distress. She was later transferred to the Ogijo Police Station, which has jurisdiction over the area where the incident reportedly occurred.

    Investigation Ongoing

    However, as inquiries progressed, investigators reportedly began examining inconsistencies in her account, prompting her current detention.

    Police authorities have reiterated that while they are committed to supporting genuine survivors of sexual violence, the law also addresses cases of false reporting.

    “In general, if she’s telling the truth, the perpetrator will be arrested and charged to court appropriately,” Babaseyi previously stated. “If it is otherwise, the law goes against giving false information, and that can make anyone who gives false information culpable.”

    The case remains under investigation, and no formal charges have yet been announced.

  • Manchester City F.C. Face Uncertain Future Amid 115-Charge Case

    Manchester City F.C. Face Uncertain Future Amid 115-Charge Case

    Premier League champions Manchester City remain embroiled in a high-stakes legal dispute with the league over 115 alleged breaches of financial regulations.

    An independent commission began hearing the case in September 2024, with proceedings concluding in December after months of detailed submissions. The investigation itself dates back to 2018, though formal charges were not brought until February 2023, according to reports.

    The allegations relate to financial reporting practices, sponsorship valuations, payments to managers and players, and compliance with both UEFA and Premier League regulations. City are also accused of failing to fully cooperate with investigators across multiple seasons between 2009–10 and 2022–23.

    Purslow Warns of Serious Consequences

    Former Liverpool, Chelsea and Aston Villa executive Christian Purslow has suggested that a final resolution may still be some way off. Speaking on The Football Boardroom with Henry Winter, Purslow noted that any ruling could be followed by lengthy appeal proceedings, potentially delaying enforcement of sanctions.

    He cautioned that if City are found guilty, the legal process could extend for months beyond the initial decision. Importantly, he stressed that sporting penalties themselves might be postponed while appeals are heard.

    Purslow also warned against the possibility of a private settlement between the league and City, describing such an outcome as a “terrible mistake” that would satisfy neither rival clubs nor supporters. Instead, he argued that the matter should be left entirely to the independent commission to determine both precedent and punishment.

    Relegation Risk?

    According to Purslow, precedent in similar regulatory cases points toward substantial sporting sanctions if breaches are proven. He suggested that significant points deductions could be imposed — penalties severe enough to threaten City’s league status.

    Should such deductions be applied, they could ultimately result in relegation, depending on their scale and timing.

    For now, the football world awaits the commission’s findings in what has become one of the most consequential legal battles in English football history.