Category: News

By Joyce Remi- Babayeju

Ahead of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Council elections, which come up in less than 7 hours, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) chairmanship candidate for Bwari Area Council, Julius Adamu, has stepped down for the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Joshua Ishaku Musa.

The Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) PDP Chairmanship Candidate, Hon. Zadna Dantani, has also stepped down for the APC candidate, Hon. Christopher Zakka Maikalangu.

Dantani, who said his decision to step down was an aftermath of intervention by the Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, added that he has also submitted a letter of withdrawal to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

He said, “My name is Hon. Zadna Dantani, the Chairmanship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the Abuja Municipal Area Council for Saturday’s Area Council elections.”

“I want to sincerely appreciate everyone who supported us, and by the grace of God, we are doing it not because of our personal interests.”

Dantani explained that his decision to step down for his APC candidate opponent was because of the intervention of the FCT minister.

“I am here to tell my people that as a candidate who is standing for this election, I have today agreed, based on the intervention of the Honourable Minister of FCT, Barrister Nyesom Wike, who is our leader in the party and the leader in FCT, who has called my attention to let us know that this is a brotherhood election.”

“I am also doing this supporting the good works of the President, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu.”

“I have consulted widely, and by the grace of God, we have agreed that we are no longer going to contest against my brother, Hon. Christopher Zakka Maikalangu.”

“By doing so, I also submitted a letter of withdrawal to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) today. “

“I therefore call on all my supporters across the 12 wards in the Abuja Municipal Area Council to come out en masse to support Hon. Christopher Maikalangu, who is the candidate of the APC.”

Dantani’s letter to INEC read, “I write to respectfully inform you that I, Hon. Zadna Dantani of Gosa Village along Airport Road FCT Abuja, a member and the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), have decided to voluntarily withdraw from contesting for the Chairmanship position of Abuja Municipal Area Council, in the forthcoming Area Council Elections which is scheduled to hold on 21st February, 2026, after due other consideration and thorough consultation with my Family and relevant stakeholders.

“I wish to state unequivocally that this decision to withdraw my candidacy is borne out of my own free will and volition.

“Accept the assurances of my warm regards, please.”

End

.. Restrict Movement From 8pm On Friday To 6pm on Saturday

By Joyce Remi – Babayeju

Ahead of the FCT Area Council elections coming up on Saturday, February the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), the Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike, has announced work free day on Friday, as well as restriction of movement from 8pm on Friday to 6pm on Saturday.

Wike , who made this known in a special broadcast on national television and radio stations on Thursday, urged residents of the FCT to come out enmasse to vote for candidates of your choice.

This was contained in a press release signed by Lere Olayinka, Senior Special Assistant Public Communications and Social Media made availabe to newsmen on Thursday.

The broadcast read, “On Saturday, February 21, we will all have a crucial opportunity to shape the future of our great Federal Capital Territory. The election of either new or returning Chairmen and Councilors for the six area councils is a momentous occasion, and I urge you to come out in your numbers to exercise your right to vote.”

“I urge you to go to the polls with a sense of purpose and responsibility.”

“As we exercise our democratic right, let us do so in an orderly and lawful manner. Let us respect the rules, respect each other, and respect the outcome of the election. We must show the world that we are a mature and responsible electorate, capable of conducting ourselves with dignity and decorum.”

“Now, with the approval of the President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, I hereby declare Friday, February 20, 2026, as a Work Free Day to enable movement of residents to their various communities to participate in the elections.”

“Similarly, the President has approved the restriction of movement within the FCT from 8pm of Friday, February 20 to 6pm of Saturday, February 21, 2026. Consequently, all security agencies are directed to ensure strict compliance with this directive.”

“Let me again use this opportunity to appreciate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for signing the Electoral Act Amendment bill 2026 into law.”

“This demonstrates his commitment to strengthening our democratic institutions and ensuring that our electoral processes are free, fair, and transparent.”

“My dear residents, Democracy has always been a work-in-progress due to the evolving democratic process. However, we will keep getting better by always looking into the Electoral Act with a view to strengthening our democratic process.”

“To all FCT residents, I urge you to make your voice heard. Come out on Saturday, February 21, 2026 and vote for the candidates of your choice.”

“Our prayer, as an administration, is that the elections will facilitate the emergence of such quality leaders that will contribute meaningfully to development, peace and prosperity in the FCT.”

“Together, let us build a brighter future for ourselves, our children, and our territory.”

End

By Jabiru Hassan

The Speaker of the , Rt. Hon. Jibril Ismail Falgore, has extended warm greetings to Muslims across Kano State on the commencement of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting.

The message was conveyed in a statement issued on Thursday by the Speaker’s spokesperson, Kamaluddeen Sani Shawai.

Falgore described Ramadan as a period that embodies compassion, sharing, and mutual support. He emphasized the importance of making greater sacrifices for the poor and showing increased commitment to the welfare of the needy, urging Muslims to uphold these values during the holy month.

“Ramadan presents an opportunity to pray more for Kano State and the country as a whole,” he said, praying to Allah to accept the faithful’s prayers during the Ramadan fast.

“On behalf of the entire Kano State House of Assembly honorable members, I extend our sincere prayers throughout the month of Ramadan and urge citizens to pray for our peaceful coexistence,” Falgore added.

The Speaker’s message highlights the Assembly’s support for religious observances and the promotion of unity and communal harmony across the state.

The socio-political organization, (YDV), has commended President for his inclusive security strategies, while calling for urgent, intensified efforts to address rising insecurity in Kwara State and the broader South West region.

Commendation for Inclusive Security Dialogue
YDV lauded the President’s willingness to engage stakeholders domestically and internationally to tackle Nigeria’s security challenges. The organization highlighted recent cooperation with international military partners, including the reported deployment of around 200 United States troops to assist in combating security breaches nationwide.

While praising the open-door policy and collaboration, YDV stressed that tangible results on the ground remain limited and urged the administration to translate consultations into decisive action.

Kwara State: A Security Flashpoint
Expressing deep concern over worsening security in Kwara State, YDV noted that bandits and terrorist groups are increasingly using the state as a staging ground for attacks into other South West states such as Ekiti, Ondo, and Oyo. The organization called on President Tinubu, as Commander-in-Chief, to immediately redeploy military resources and prioritize the stabilization of the Kwara corridor.

“If the Kwara corridor is not secured, the entire Yoruba homeland remains vulnerable to penetration and occupation by these criminal elements,” YDV stated.

Economic Praise and Cabinet Coordination
YDV congratulated the President on recent positive ratings from the World Bank and other international financial institutions, noting that Nigeria’s improving economy reflects the administration’s bold reforms. The organization urged that these macroeconomic gains be translated into tangible relief for ordinary Nigerians to ensure inclusive recovery.

Call for Massive Youth Recruitment
While acknowledging the recent approval for 20,000 new police officers, YDV deemed this number insufficient. The group urged President Tinubu to fulfill his campaign promise by recruiting at least 500,000 able-bodied youths into various security outfits. They emphasized that such a move would both strengthen national defense and address youth unemployment and restiveness.

Funding and Equipping Local Vigilantes and Amotekun
YDV also called for greater federal support for local security networks, including the South West’s Amotekun, urging funding for modern firearms, advanced surveillance tools, and drones. They further recommended the provision of technical expertise for intelligence gathering to enable local operatives to secure their communities effectively.

Integration of Traditional Warfare Methods
Finally, YDV advocated for the institutionalization of traditional warfare tactics alongside modern military strategies. They suggested convening a conference of proven traditional warriors to demonstrate and integrate their methods with contemporary security operations, creating a holistic defense approach.

The organization concluded by reiterating the Yoruba nation’s readiness to support the federal government in all constructive initiatives aimed at safeguarding citizens and securing communities.

By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna

The has accused former Kaduna State Governor, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, of personally dragging the media organisation and its Kaduna correspondent to court for almost six years over a 2015 report on his asset declaration.

The case stemmed from a July 2, 2015, publication titled “El-Rufai Declares N90 Billion, Owns 40 Mansions in Abuja”, which alleged that El-Rufai declared assets worth N90 billion, including 40 properties in Abuja.

The defunct newspaper’s correspondent expressed dismay over the court proceedings, noting that while multiple Kaduna-based journalists had investigated the asset declaration, most national media reportedly ignored or misrepresented the case, with some allegedly “bought over” or refusing to cover the trial.

Interestingly, El-Rufai reportedly waived his immunity as Executive Governor to personally file the suit at the State High Court 2 in Kaduna, seeking N55 million in damages for alleged defamation of character and reputation. He personally appeared in court before Justice Mario Mohammed and was also summoned to testify.

During proceedings, El-Rufai admitted he had yet to calculate the total value of his assets. Evidence tendered in court, including issues of PowerSteering News Magazine showing photographs of some of his Abuja mansions, was rejected by the former governor on the basis that the magazine had “never merited his table” since he assumed office.

The Union Newspapers maintained that its report, which surprised Kaduna residents, accurately reflected documents obtained from the Abuja headquarters of the . George David, Director of the Kaduna State Office of the Bureau, declined to comment on specifics, stating that asset declarations by public officials are not required to be made public, and any further details could only be sought from the national headquarters in Abuja.

Efforts to obtain a comment from Governor El-Rufai’s Media Adviser, Muyiwa Adekeye, confirmed that the governor had declared his assets but did not provide further details.

Union Newspapers also highlighted irregularities in court proceedings, noting that Court 2 continued sessions even during judicial vacation periods to accommodate the case personally filed by El-Rufai.

The media house concluded that despite years of legal challenges, it continues to uphold investigative reporting and faces ongoing scrutiny in cases involving public office holders.

This case underscores the tensions between media freedom and public office holders’ responses to investigative reporting on asset declarations in Nigeria.

By Jabiru Hassan

The (FERMA) has submitted a proposed budget of ₦229.999 billion for the 2026 fiscal year, aimed at strengthening road maintenance operations and improving national connectivity. The appropriation includes ₦191 billion for capital expenditure, ₦5 billion for personnel costs, and ₦33 billion for overhead expenses.

The budget proposal was presented during the 2025 Appropriation Act performance review and 2026 budget defense before the Joint Senate and House Committees on FERMA.

Presenting the proposal, the Minister of State for Works and Supervising Minister of FERMA, Hon. Bello Goronyo, Esq., highlighted that while FERMA has the technical expertise to execute its mandate effectively, insufficient funding remains a key constraint. He noted that the 2026 allocations are strategically distributed across all states, reflecting FERMA’s commitment to equitable and impactful road maintenance nationwide.

“It is envisaged that, with your support, the implementation of the 2025 five percent fossil fuel surcharge, as provided under Section 159 of the New Task Force Act, will include FERMA in the distribution template. This aligns with global best practices and will enable the Agency to more effectively fulfill its mandate,” Hon. Goronyo stated.

He commended the Committees for their oversight and partnership, describing legislative support as crucial for unlocking FERMA’s operational capacity. “With your approval, we can accelerate critical road interventions nationwide and ensure that Nigeria’s roads become true engines for economic growth and national unity,” he added.

The Managing Director/CEO of FERMA, Engr. Chukwuemeka Agbasi, reiterated the Agency’s funding challenges and highlighted key achievements in 2025, including:

• 200.82 km of roads maintained
• 31,574.29 square metres of potholes patched
• 1,655.89 km of roads made motorable
• 10,311 metres of drainage constructed
• 19 washouts reinstated
• 3 bridges maintained
• 4,013 streetlight poles installed

Engr. Agbasi noted ongoing challenges, including inadequate budgetary releases, distressed and aged pavements, road abuse, climate-related emergencies, and security concerns in certain regions. He emphasized the importance of aligning national budget cycles with procurement timelines to ensure road projects are executed during the dry season for better efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

Sen. Sahabi Yau, Chairman of the Senate Committee on FERMA, and Hon. Engr. Aderemi Oseni, Chairman of the House Committee on FERMA, alongside other committee members, commended the Agency’s visible efforts in maintaining federal roads. Hon. Oseni urged FERMA to continue improving project delivery standards and ensure value for money, while Sen. Yau encouraged sustained performance and efficiency in response to legislative feedback.

The proposed 2026 budget reflects FERMA’s strategic focus on improving federal road infrastructure, enhancing national connectivity, and supporting economic growth through a safer and more resilient road network.

Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has commended the (APC) for the peaceful and hitch-free conduct of its ward congresses across the state.

Diri, who described himself as the APC leader in Bayelsa, gave the commendation after participating in the congress at his hometown, Sampou/Kalama Ward 6 in Kolokuma/Opokuma Local Government Area.

He congratulated party delegates for electing new ward executives through consensus and voice vote affirmation, describing the exercise as a demonstration of unity, internal democracy and political maturity.

“Politics should not disunite us. Rather, it should bring us together because the goal is to bring development to our communities, local government, and the state,” the governor said.

Diri expressed optimism that the party’s national leadership would be satisfied with the conduct of the exercise in Bayelsa, noting that reports from across the state indicated that the congresses were largely peaceful and free of major incidents.

He also projected a similar outcome for the forthcoming local government congresses and the subsequent state congress, stating that the party’s structure would be further strengthened ahead of future elections.

The governor thanked the APC National Executive Committee, the state caretaker committee led by Dr. Dennis Otiotio, party stakeholders, the (INEC) and security agencies for their roles in ensuring a smooth process.

In Sampou/Kalama Ward 6, supervised by the State Congress Election Committee chaired by Chief Frank Omare, Mr. Shedrach Fetuga emerged as ward chairman alongside other elected executives.

In his acceptance speech, Fetuga expressed appreciation to party members for the confidence reposed in him and pledged to work toward strengthening the party’s base and securing victories in upcoming elections, including the 2027 governorship race.

The congress was observed by the State Congress Screening Committee Chairman, Hon. Oghene Egoh, as well as an INEC representative, Engr. Prince Erasmus.

Diri’s remarks come as the APC prepares for higher-level congresses aimed at consolidating its internal structure and positioning the party for future electoral contests in Bayelsa State.

By Francis Wilfred

The Executive Chairman of the (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has urged students across Nigeria to reject internet fraud and other social vices, stressing the need for digital integrity and cultural reorientation among youths.

Olukoyede gave the charge on Wednesday at a conference themed “Cybercrimes, Drugs and Other Social Vices” held at the main campus of the .

Represented by the Head of Enlightenment and Re-Orientation Unit of the EFCC, Assistant Commander of the EFCC (ACE II) Aisha Muhammad, the EFCC chairman encouraged students to channel their creativity and talents into productive ventures rather than criminal activities.

“I implore you to use your creative talents like fashion design, music and art to impact society positively,” he said.

Olukoyede emphasised that the Commission remains committed to youth engagement through initiatives such as Integrity Clubs and Zero Tolerance Clubs established in secondary and tertiary institutions to promote anti-corruption values and ethical conduct.

“Be ambassadors of Nigeria, represent your families and your country with integrity, and shun cybercrime, drug abuse and cultism,” he charged.

Delivering a keynote address at the National Student Leadership Conference, Executive Director of the (CISLAC)/, Awwal Ibrahim Rafsanjani, underscored the nexus between integrity and national development.

Rafsanjani described corruption as a major impediment to Nigeria’s progress, noting that it fuels social vices such as cybercrime, drug abuse and cultism.

The organiser of the festival, Tayo Folorunsho, highlighted the importance of youth-focused initiatives, stating that such engagements are critical in moulding responsible citizens and promoting a safer financial environment.

The event brought together students from across the Federal Capital Territory for discussions on integrity, discipline and civic responsibility aimed at building a more accountable society. Cultural activities, including music and dance performances, also featured at the conference.

The EFCC has continued to intensify its public enlightenment campaigns as part of broader efforts to curb financial crimes and promote ethical values among young Nigerians.