Author: Our Correspondent

By Anne Azuka 

In a massive political realignment that reverberated across Delta State and beyond, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, and other stakeholders in the state have formally announced their resignation from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to join the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). 

Announcing the defection after a meeting with leaders and stakeholders of the Peoples Democratic Party in the state on Wednesday at Government House, Asaba, pioneer Chairman of the PDP in the state, Senator James Manager, said the decision was taken in consultation with various stakeholders across the state. 

Manager said: “You have just been told about some of the things that have been happening in the PDP Delta State. Some consultations have been going on and the climax of these consultations is what you are seeing today. 

“We have discussed and have disagreed to agree and it is a unanimous agreement. I am the pioneer state chairman of the PDP. But you cannot be in a boat that is already capsizing because I am a riverine man. 

“Looking at issues the way they are, we have come to the inevitable conclusion to do something else. It is a collective decision for so many reasons. 

“Few days ago, there was a resolution taken by the PDP Governor’s forum at Ibadan. Almost all the Governor’s where there and they resolved that they are not going into coalition with any other party. 

“But as disadvantaged as the PDP is now with about 11 Governors, how do you go into a contest with an incumbent president? You think you can win? That particular resolution killed the spirit of so many PDP members. 

“We lost election in 2015 as a result of a merger which even included splinter groups from the PDP. There are also other reasons. 

“Today Senator Anyanwu is the National Secretary of the party tomorrow is another person. The party must be position to go into an election to win. So you see that it is becoming very funny. The PDP is truly in trouble. 

“If you look well, the current PDP state chairman was in the meeting, the governor was there, the Deputy governor, the immediate past governor, the speaker. All of these persons were in the meeting. National Assembly members and even the House of Assembly members. The who is who in Delta State was in the meeting to make this decision.” 

Also, the State Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, who also spoke, said the decision became necessary following the unfortunate happenings at the National level of the party. 

“For some time now the media, particularly the social media have been awash as to what political decisions that we are going to be taking in Delta. 

“While that was on, the governor and the leaders of the party have been very busy carrying out some necessary consultations and it is also part of that consultation that has resulted in this meeting today for the leaders of the PDP to be able to advise as to what necessary steps that needed to be taken. 

“It is said that when the taste of the palm wine changes, the drinking pattern also changes and the leaders of the party were unanimous in their view that the political temperature has changed. 

“And there was a need for change that will help cement the development in our state; to build the bond of love that has existed in our state and to further advance the security and welfare of our people. 

“Like you know, every politics is local. So in taking this decision, we came to the inevitable conclusion that moving out of the PDP is very necessary for us to collaborate with our kits and kin and build that bond that we have been enjoying. 

“We believe that what is happening in the PDP at the national can be likened to that Palm wine whose taste has changed and that is why this decision has been taken. 

“By the grace of God, on Monday next week, we would be able to make a bold statement that we are moving to the APC.” 

With Oborevwori now in APC colours, the South‑South’s political map tightens as the new alignment enhances President Bola Tinubu’s re‑election calculus by adding roughly 1.4 million Delta votes to the ruling party.

At the meeting, all stakeholders, leaders and members of the PDP resolved to join Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to move to the APC and would be received at a rally by Vice President, Kashim Shettima at the Cenotaph, in Asaba, on Monday. 

In attendance at the meeting were, the State Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme, immediate past Governor of the State and former Vice-Presidential candidate of the party, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, members of the National Assembly, Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, members of the State House of Assembly, Commissioners, Local Government Council Chairmen, top government functionaries, stakeholders, leaders and party officials.

By Isreal Adamu,Jos 

Troops of Operation Safe Haven  deployed to restore law and order in Plateau ,Southern Kaduna and Bauchi have foiled a criminal attack on Teegbe village in Bassa Local Government Area (LGA) of Plateau State.

This was contained in a statement signed by  Major  Samson Nantip  Zhakom ,the  media Information Officer Operation Safe Haven and made available to our correspondent in Jos .

The statement reads that  ” The attack which occurred on 23 April 2025, was met with strong resistance from own troops who responded to a distress call from one of the residents. 

It reads that “Troops swiftly mobilised to the scene, made contact with the attackers who fled towards an adjourning high-ground, and neutralised one of the assailants during a gun duel. Further exploitation led to the arrest of 2 individuals who are currently undergoing interrogation.”

Additionally, on 22 April 2025, troops of Sector 2 OPSH conducted stop and search operation along Katnan- Buratali road, Kadarko District in Wase LGA of Plateau State. During the operation, troops arrested 3 suspected armed robbers. 

The suspects were arrested in possession of 1 fabricated pistol, and brought to custody for interrogation. During the interrogation, suspects confessed to have been operating alongside other gang members. 

Following the interrogation, the suspects volunteered to lead troops to their hideout to recover more weapons and arrest other gang members. However, while leading troops to the hideout, suspects attempted to disarm the troops in order to escape and were immediately neutralised. 

OPSH will continue to deploy every legitimate means to protecting law-abiding residents within the Joint Operations Area from criminal attacks and wanton destruction of their property.

By Isaac Kertyo, Makurdi 

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has assured that the Federal Government under his watch would support the Benue State Government to tackle insecurity bedeviling the state.

Tinubu who spoke through his National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, at the Government House, Makurdi, applauded Benue State Governor, Rev Fr Hyacinth Alia, over his relentless efforts towards tackling security challenges in the state. He warned those taking advantage of the current situation to desist forthwith.

“We acknowledge the efforts of the Benue State Governor in tackling insecurity. We warn that those exploiting the situation for personal gains should desist forthwith”, assuring that the Federal Government is committed to supporting the Governor towards tackling security challenges.

Ribadu continued: “we promise to continue to support to eliminate the menace. The President has instructed me to convey his administration’s determination of ending insecurity in the county.” The NSA was in the state to identify with the Government and people of the state over the recent attacks on Benue communities by armed militia that left no fewer than 70 persons dead. 

Meanwhile, the Governor of Benue State Rev Fr Hyacinth Alia, in a statement has disclosed that 73 persons lost their lives during the attacks on three local government areas of Ukum, Katsina-Ala and Logo respectively by suspected armed Herdsmen.

The Governor hinted that the attackers are foreign mercenaries who found their way into the villages on motorcycles armed with sophisticated weapons such as AK-47 and machetes to carry out their nefarious activities.

We’re making tremendous progress, says Project Manager

By Lucy Omakpo

Residents, business owners and community leaders in Warri-Effurun have expressed confidence in the transformation taking place through the Warri/Effurun Roads and Flyovers Project. Many believe that the project will deliver lasting benefits, easing traffic congestion and unlocking economic opportunities. Their expressed enthusiasm came just as the Project Manager, Thomas Haug informed that tremendous progress was being made in the execution of the project to possibly beat the agreed deadline for the completion of the job.

At the DSC flyover, where construction is in full swing, petty traders, artisans and small businesses have sprung up and are thriving. An estate agent, Friday Onome, said the decision to bring Julius Berger to handle the city’s renewal was the best one the state government could have made. He noted that the project was already making a visible impact. “Look at what is happening here. The flyovers are taking shape, and roads that were once in terrible condition are coming back to life.” Onome, who relocated his office from Jakpa Road to Osubi Road to be closer to the emerging development, described Julius Berger’s Life Camp as a testament to the company’s high standards. “If their staff camp is that well-built, imagine what they’re delivering with these roads and bridges,” he added.

At Enerhen Junction, where a new flyover is under construction, businesses have quickly adapted. Food vendors, PoS operators, second-hand clothing sellers, and commercial motorcycle riders have moved into the area, anticipating the increased commercial activity the completed infrastructure will bring. “We can’t wait for the day Julius Berger finishes this job and opens up the roads,” said Mama Ejiroghene, a food vendor. “Then Warri will be booming again. That’s why everyone is happy and cooperating with them. Anyone against this project is against progress,” she said.

As for the Project Manager, “Yes, we are making tremendous progress; we have that going for us”. He acknowledged the strong support from the community. “The people see the bigger picture. They know this project will improve their lives, so their cooperation has been excellent. Even in areas where we’ve had to regulate traffic, they understand and are patient.” 

On the DSC Flyover, Haug said, all beams have been placed, and in the section along with its access roads, everything is on track for completion before the year’s end. At Enerhen junction, pedestrian walkways have been provided while vehicle access is temporarily restricted. Despite this, people are not complaining. They know this development is for their benefit,” Haug said.

According to the Haug, work on the PTI Flyover is progressing, though relocating high-tension overhead cables had posed some challenges. As of last month, two ends of the flyover were completed, and Julius Berger was awaiting the arrival of specialised equipment to move the overhead cables. Last week, Haug confirmed tremendous progress on the flyover and roads in the PTI area.

He said work is ongoing in that area saying, we are doing the foundation work there; and despite the rains that are already here, we are still working to deliver the project; and the completion date is still intact.

Meanwhile, in consonance with the acclaimed Julius Berger efforts at partnering with communities surrounding project sites, the company has carried out CSR activities with the repair and maintenance of community roads as well as doing same at the community primary school, gestures for which the residents are appreciative.

The Delta State Government awarded Julius Berger the N78 billion contract to build three flyovers and expand roads in Warri and Effurun, aiming to ease traffic congestion and improve mobility. The contract includes the construction of a flyover from Enerhen Junction to Marine Gate, expansion of the DSC/NPA Expressway

By Austin Maho

The Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria Ambasasor Yu Dunhai has described the US tarrif policy as “a step backward in history”

He spoke while addressing a group of journalists at the Chinese Embassy today in Abuja

Ambassador Dunhai noted that the U.S. actions infringes upon the legitimate rights and interests of other countries and violates WTO and undermines the rules-based multilateral trading system, and destabilizes the global economic order.

The Ambassador who spoke in company of top officials of the Chinese Embassy in Nigeria, including Minister Counselor Zhang Yi and Minister Counselor Wang Yingqi, said by imposing the tariffs the U.S. also defies basic economic principles and market rules, ignoring the fact that it has long profited immensely from international trade.

Using tariffs as a weapon for maximum pressure and self-interest he said is a typical manifestation of unilateralism, protectionism, and economic bullying. This is neither “reciprocal” nor “fair”—it is essentially about pursuing “America First” and “American exceptionalism.”

According to him “the U.S. clings to an outdated mindset of “might makes right” and “America First.” It resorts to unilateral bullying, imposing tariffs indiscriminately while disregarding multilateral rules. It openly places its own interests above the common interests of international society, and flagrantly disregards the multilateral trading system and established rules. It promotes a law-of-the-jungle approach, which is clearly turning back the wheel of history.”

Advocating for a peaceful world He said that the world is in the 21st century—an era far removed from the devastation of two World Wars. “This year marks the 80th anniversary of the United Nations and the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War. As President Xi Jinping pointed out, what defines our world today? The answer is clear: peace, development, cooperation, and shared prosperity”.

He reiterated that the trade war is not a war between China and the US but between the US and the rest of the world in violation of a rule based international system which the tariff policy fragrantly disregards.

The ambassador said that the U.S. tariff policy is going to be counter productive as the US would end up shooting itself on the foot.

According to him the U.S. aims to force other countries to submit through maximum pressure and make America great again. “But this strategy will backfire, harming its own interests as much as others. By turning its back on the world and launching a full-scale tariff war, the U.S. will not achieve its goals. Instead, it will fuel inflation, weaken its industrial base, trigger financial market panic, and increase the risk of an economic recession”. He said.

Citing critism by the U.S. media on the tariff policy, he said , “America is waging a war of self-destruction”. A CBS survey released Sunday found nearly two-thirds of voters oppose the U.S. tariffs. Just this month, U.S. inflation surged to 7.2%, with egg and chicken prices rising by 34% and 28% year-on-year, respectively. Goldman Sachs has raised the probability of a U.S. recession in the next 12 months from 35% to 45%. The IMF warns that U.S. tariffs could slash global growth by 1.5% in 2025. WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala adds that trade volumes may shrink by 1%, with developing nations hit the hardest. The U.S. tariff policies are particularly devastating for African nations. Using the absurd logic that “trade surpluses equate to cheating,” the U.S. has launched indiscriminate attacks on African countries, violating WTO principles of special treatment for developing nations. This has already caused “collateral damage” such as currency devaluation and stock market volatility in Africa. The growth momentum of major African economies will inevitably be affected, with some structurally vulnerable economies possibly suffering severe blows, undermining Africa’s industrialization and poverty reduction efforts”.

He called on the rest of the world to reject U.S. tariffs noting that, “No country can stay immune in the face of bullying and coercion. Appeasement will only invite further aggression. The international community must unite and fight back to defend our shared interests. Today, opposing U.S. tariff abuse and bullying means upholding multilateralism and fairness and justice.
China does not provoke trouble, neither are we intimidated by it. As the Chinese saying goes, “To friends, we offer fine wines; to wolves, the hunting rifles.” Pressure and threats are not the right way to deal with China. China has taken and will continue to take firm measures to safeguard its sovereignty, security, and development interests. If a fight is forced upon us, China will fight to the end. If talks are sought, China’s door remains open—but only on the basis of equality and mutual respect.

Another Chinese saying goes, “A just cause enjoys abundant support, while an unjust one finds little.” In this imposed tariff war, China stands on the right side of history and the side of fairness and justice. We have the confidence and resolve to defeat all threats and blackmail.

Domestically, we have the unwavering support of our people, a vast market of 1.4 billion consumers, and a comprehensive industrial chain. China’s economy grew by 5.4% in the first quarter. Over the past decades, China has contributed around 30% to global economic growth, serving as a vital engine for the world economy.

Globally, the world has long grown weary of America’s arrogance, bullying, and selfishness. Now, the U.S. has discarded even the pretense of decency, openly declaring a tariff war against the world, placing its interests above the common good of the international community, and advancing its hegemonic ambitions at the cost of the legitimate interests of other nations. This will inevitably face widespread opposition.

As the world’s second-largest economy and second-largest consumer market, no matter how the international landscape changes, China’s door will only open wider. We will continue to advance high-level opening-up, implement liberalization and facilitation of trade and investment. We will foster a first-class market-oriented, law-based, and internationalized business environment. And we will share our development opportunities with the world to achieve mutual benefits.

It must be emphasized that China’s resolute stance against power bullying is not only to defend its own legitimate rights but also to uphold the common interests of the international community and prevent the world from regressing to a law-of-the-jungle era. China’s firm countermeasures have won the other nations a 90-day window, mitigating the impact of U.S. tariffs on global supply chains, creating space for dialogue and negotiation, and curbing the unchecked spread of trade protectionism.

Why is the U.S. abuse of tariffs a “crisis with opportunities” for China-Nigeria cooperation?

China-Africa and China-Nigeria relations are built on mutual respect, equality, mutual benefit, and win-win cooperation.

African nations are committed to development and revitalization, which requires a free, open multilateral trading system and a stable, predictable global environment. History has shown that China is a reliable partner for Africa—trustworthy, mature, and steadfast. China’s development and commitment to high-level openness will bring much-needed stability to an increasingly uncertain world.

At last year’s FOCAC Beijing Summit, China pledged to unilaterally expand market access, granting zero-tariff treatment to 100% of product categories for all least-developed countries with diplomatic ties to China, including 33 African nations. This demonstrates China’s concrete efforts to turn its vast market into tangible opportunities for Africa.

China and Nigeria are key trade partners, with bilateral trade consistently reaching around $22 billion—among the highest in Africa. Following last year’s agreement on Nigerian peanut exports to China, China remains open to further expanding imports of Nigerian goods, signaling broad prospects for future economic cooperation.

As Africa’s most populous country, a major economy, and a leading voice of the Global South, Nigeria holds significant influence. China stands ready to work with Nigeria to implement the outcomes of the FOCAC Summit and the consensus between our leaders, deepening mutually beneficial collaboration. Together, we will uphold the multilateral trading system, resist protectionism, and foster an open, inclusive, and fair international environment. Our shared goal is to advance an equal and orderly multipolar world and a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization, building a community with a shared future for humanity.

By Austin Maho

The Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria Yu Dunhai has described US tariffs as a war imposed by the United States on the rest of the world, emphasizing that this was the proper way to describe the situation rather than simply calling it a trade war.

Ambassador Dunhai spoke today in Abuja during an interactive session with journalists in the light of the recent tariffs imposed by the United States

“Its not a trade war but a war imposed by the US on the rest of the world”
Noting that the rest of the world must come together to confront the United States

“Appeasement is not the way out we have to come out to defend our national interest” emphasingn that trying to appease the United States under president Donald Trump will only lead to an escalation not a resolution of the crisis.
“No one is going to be immuned from this crisis, that is why the rest of the world must come together to confront the challenge” because according to him submitting to the United States would amount to a loss of sovereignty
“You lose your sovereignty if the bully is allowed to have his way. We should not allow might is right to rule the world”. He said

He noted that the tariffs may lead to a global recession in which no one is going to be immuned. However he noted that the “US will end up isolating itself because it is nolonger the beacon of the world.

He noted that China Nigeria relationship is on the upswing as trade between Nigeria and China has reached over 22 billion USD making Nigeria a major trading partner with China.

On the Naira/Yuan swap policy, Ambassador Dunhai said China is desirous to see modernization and growth between the two sides and more financial cooperation beyond infrastructural development. He said China has consistently granted preferential loan to Nigeria which is far below the international standard to aid the development of infrastructure in the country. He said that the currency swap policy will contribute to development and facilitate trade between China and Nigeria noting that the policy has been extended and about two billion USD set aside to facilitate the policy and facilitate trade transaction between both countries to save exchange rate

By Israel Adamu, Jos 

The Christian Association of  Nigeria CAN has condemned  in strong terms attacks on rural Communities of Bassa and Bokkos local government Council of Plateau state .

Vice Chairman of the association Rev Stephen Panya Baba made this known at the distribution of relief materials to victims of the attacks .

He said ” We  are here on behalf of the President and the entire leadership of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) to stand in solidarity with the people and government of Plateau State especially the communities and families of those affected directly in Bokkos and Bassa Local Government Areas of the state. 

To say the least, these recent attacks indicate the highest level of inhumanity to humans expressed by the terrorists.  We convey our deepest condolences to each and everyone that is affected in one way or the other.

We reassure you of our deepest concern and solidarity knowing that you are not alone in these challenges but God almighty is with you and the entire body of Christ.

We wish to commend the steps taken so far by Mr President and the Governor of Plateau State to nip these challenges in the bud. We appeal to Mr President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to redouble the effort towards achieving a more durable solution. 

We frown at the situation where harmless innocent children and women in the dead of the night by faceless terrorists armed with sophisticated weapons will be defined as a communal misunderstanding or crisis. Emphatically, let the whole world know that communal misunderstanding or crisis is not the case on the Plateau. Lets call a spade a spade,  what is happening is premeditated vicious acts of genocide against the Christian indigenous populace, by very heartless, wicked and evil  terrorists for very nefarious purposes. Nevertheless, we pray that God would touch their hearts to repent of their very wicked and evil acts, for nothing is impossible with God. But the Bible warns also that; “because the wicked do not fear God, it will not go well with them, and their days will not lengthen like a shadow.” (Ecclesiastes 8:13)

We are saddened that lives of Nigerian citizens in parts of the country have been reduced to nothing. The criminal elements seems to be freer in achieving their demonic aim in our communities today while innocent citizens are left to lick their wounds with repeated attacks and loss of lives and properties.  As a nation, we have entered into a situation whereby citizens are butchered in their numbers on a daily basis without concrete measures to stop the killings. Our communities are under constant siege and unless and until the government takes  deliberate and decisive measures to end these massacres, the future will remain bleak.    

Let the security agencies be encouraged to be more proactive and go after these criminals and ensure they are apprehended and made to pay for their crimes. Ecclesiastes 8:11 says; “When the sentence for a crime is not quickly carried out, the hearts of the people are filled with schemes to do wrong.”

We urge Christians all over the nation and indeed all peace loving Nigerians to stand in prayers with Plateau State and all states under siege by criminals elements under any guise. 

The relief materials we are presenting to you today which is made up of building materials, food stuffs and toiletries is not enough to handle the enormous needs and challenges of your communities but it is an expression of our deepest concern, genuine love and care for you. 

May God bless and restore peace in Plateau State and Nigeria at large in Jesus mighty name. Amen.

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume, CON, has on behalf of the Federal Executive Council, FEC, felicitated with Nigerians, particularly, Christian faithful on the occasion of Easter celebration in commemoration of the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.     

In a release made available to Daybrrsk Nigeria the SGF describes the sacrificial love of Jesus Christ to humanity as exemplified  by his death and resurrection as a beacon of hope, salvation and liberation for the Christendom.

According to the statement signed by the Director, Information & Public, Segun Imohiosen, the SGF urged Christians to imitate the sterling lifestyle of Jesus Christ as well as his teachings on love, forbearance, selflessness and forgiveness in all aspects of their endeavours. 

Sen. Akume enjoined Nigerians to pray for peace and unity of the nation and to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda for a prosperous Nigeria for all.

FEC wishes the Christian faithful a blessed Good Friday and a happy Easter celebration.

By Noah Ocheni, Lokoja

Unknown gunmen on Tuesday in Ihima, Okehi Local Government Area of Kogi State, stormed the family house of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan destroying property worth’s thousands of naira.

Familiar sources hinted our correspondent that the attackers arrived at the compound at about 1:00 am armed with cutlasses and guns, damaging parts of the building, smashing windows and causing panic in the area. At least three men were said to be involved in the attack.

It was gathered that after Senator Natasha’s Chief Security Officer, Yakubu Ovanja, informed the appropriate security agencies, officers from the Okehi Police Division rushed to the scene.

The lawmaker, who represents Kogi Central Senatorial District in the Senate, Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has been in the news lately following her sexual harassment allegation against the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio.

According to Zagazola Makama, police are still trying to figure out what motivated the attackers and are working to find those responsible.

Although nobody was hurt and no suspect has been arrested yet, security officials are reported to have launched a preliminary investigation.

As at the time of filling this report, the reason behind the attack is still unknown, and Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has not released an official statement regarding the attack.