The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, NCDC, has placed the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and nine other states on heightened Ebola surveillance following the outbreak of the deadly Bundibugyo strain of the virus in parts of East and Central Africa. In a public health advisory issued to state Commissioners for Health, the agency warned that Nigeria remains at high risk of importing the virus due to increased regional transmission, cross-border movement, international travel, and porous borders. The advisory, dated May 27, 2026, identified Lagos, the FCT, Rivers, Kano, Enugu, Borno, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Taraba, and Adamawa as high-risk areas because of their international airports, seaports, border corridors, and heavy human traffic. According to the NCDC, the current outbreak involving the Bundibugyo strain presents a major concern because there is presently no approved vaccine or targeted treatment for the variant. “The immediate objective of our national preparedness and readiness efforts is to ensure that every state and the FCT can reasonably detect, contain, and respond swiftly to any suspected case while protecting health workers and sustaining essential health services,” the agency stated. Although Nigeria has not recorded any confirmed Ebola case, the NCDC disclosed that a recent risk assessment conducted after the outbreak was declared a public health emergency of international concern indicated that the threat of importation into the country remains significant. The agency revealed that Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo had already recorded over 1,000 suspected cases and hundreds of deaths linked to the outbreak, with a fatality rate estimated at 24.6 per cent. The outbreak has also raised global concern, with reports of suspected cases emerging in India, while Canada reportedly imposed temporary restrictions on certain travel applications involving residents from Uganda, the DRC, and South Sudan. Uganda has equally introduced border control measures aimed at curbing the spread of the disease. Health authorities stressed that the Bundibugyo strain differs from the more common Zaire Ebola strain, which existing vaccines and antibody therapies primarily target. “The current Bundibugyo virus outbreak has no licensed vaccines or approved targeted therapeutics,” the advisory warned. The NCDC further cautioned healthcare workers against relying solely on visible bleeding as a sign of Ebola, noting that symptoms may initially resemble malaria, Lassa fever, or other common illnesses. “Health workers must not wait for bleeding before suspecting Ebola in any patient with compatible symptoms and relevant travel or exposure history,” the agency advised. As part of its emergency response strategy, the NCDC said the National Emergency Operations Centre had already been activated in alert mode to coordinate nationwide preparedness efforts. State governments were directed to activate emergency preparedness structures, strengthen surveillance at entry points, identify isolation centres, equip frontline health workers with personal protective equipment, and intensify public awareness campaigns to prevent panic and misinformation. Meanwhile, the Lagos State Government has assured residents that no confirmed or suspected Ebola case has been detected in the state. The Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, said there was no cause for alarm, adding that Lagos remained on high alert due to its strategic position as Nigeria’s major entry point. According to him, the state’s bio-security and disease surveillance systems remain fully operational and capable of responding swiftly to any biological threat. “The Lagos Biosecurity Bio-shield was built to protect and remains ready to respond to biological shocks. Preparedness for us is not a temporary reaction; it is a permanent culture embedded within our health system,” Abayomi stated. He explained that the state’s preparedness system, first tested during the 2014 Ebola outbreak and later strengthened during the COVID-19 pandemic, remains active in managing recurring public health threats such as cholera, diphtheria, and Lassa fever. Nigeria’s latest Ebola alert has revived memories of the country’s successful containment of the virus during the 2014 outbreak after an infected Liberian-American traveller, Patrick Sawyer, arrived in Lagos and exposed several people before authorities intervened. At the time, public health experts feared a major outbreak in Lagos due to its dense population and commercial significance. However, swift contact tracing, isolation protocols, emergency coordination, and aggressive public awareness campaigns helped contain the virus within months. The World Health Organisation later described Nigeria’s response as one of Africa’s most successful Ebola containment efforts. Health authorities are now urging Nigerians to remain calm, avoid misinformation, maintain proper hygiene practices, and promptly report any suspected symptoms as surveillance and emergency preparedness measures intensify across the country.

Today in Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State, hundreds of protesters took to the streets, marching from Iwo Road to the State Secretariat to demand the immediate rescue of the students and teachers kidnapped in the Oriire Local Government Area. Armed gunmen on motorcycles invaded three schools in the Oriire axis on May 15, 2026: Community Grammar School (Ahoro-Esinle), Yawota Baptist Nursery and Primary School, and L.A. Primary School (Esiele). The abductors took approximately 46 individuals, including 39 pupils and 7 teachers (such as school principal Mrs. Folawe Alamu). Two individuals, including assistant headmaster Joel Adesiyan, were killed during the attack. The kidnappers later circulated a distressing video showing the execution of one of the abducted teachers, mathematics instructor Michael Oyedokun. The mass protest in Ibadan was organized by Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), the Take-It-Back Movement, and the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT). Protesters held placards chanting "Their deaths demand action" and "Bring back our children." Protesters expressed severe anguish over the security collapse in rural schools. The demonstrators chanted in Yoruba and English, explicitly shouting: "E gba wa o! Gbogbo eyin eeyan wa, e gba wa o! Ati mo pe e n gbo wa, sugbon e dake... E wo awon eyan wa to n ku ninu igbo... We are not criminals! We are teachers!" (Translation: "Help us! All our people, help us! We know you can hear us, but you are silent... Look at our people dying in the forest... We are not criminals! We are teachers!") Demonstrators demanded immediate, direct intervention from Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde and the Federal Government. Education rights groups demanded a temporary shutdown of public schools to protest unsafe learning environments across vulnerable rural communities. Governor Makinde confirmed that security forces, including the military and Amotekun, are conducting intensive search-and-rescue operations. Authorities are deploying both "kinetic and non-kinetic" strategies to locate the victims deep within the forest reserves. Six suspects, including suspected informants, have been apprehended in connection with the kidnappings.

President Bola Tinubu on Thursday assured Nigerians that the sacrifices they have endured over three years of sweeping economic reforms have not been in vain. This was as he disclosed that his administration’s reforms of the past three years blocked a daily haemorrhage of N18.4bn earlier lost to fuel subsidies and N8tn lost to forex arbitrage. Tinubu revealed this in his statement to mark his third year in office on May 29, 2026. “I remain deeply conscious of those sacrifices, and I assure you: your sacrifice has not been in vain. And today, I can say with confidence that Nigeria has stabilised and is moving forward again,” the President said. In the statement released on Thursday, Tinubu thanked Nigerians for bearing the cost of what he described as unavoidable structural adjustments. While acknowledging the pressures of his reforms on families, workers and young people, the Nigeria leader insisted that the foundation for national recovery had been laid. According to him, “When this administration assumed office, our nation faced profound economic and structural difficulties. “Mounting fiscal pressures, unsustainable fuel subsidies, declining revenues, exchange-rate distortions, rising debt-servicing costs, insecurity in several parts of the country, energy supply constraints, and declining public confidence in institutions all threatened our progress. “At the height of the subsidy regime, Nigeria was spending as much as N18.4bn daily to sustain petrol subsidies, over N4tn in 2022 alone, resources that could have been invested in roads, healthcare, education, housing, and critical infrastructure. “Multiple exchange rate windows and forex arbitrage created massive distortions, with Nigeria losing more than N8tn over three years to rent-seeking and speculative practices.” He argued that the administration’s decision to act swiftly on both fronts was a choice between national survival and politically convenient inaction. “The situation demanded urgent and courageous action. Difficult but necessary decisions had to be taken to stabilise the economy and prevent a deeper national crisis. “The easy choices would have been politically convenient. But leadership demands courage, especially when the right decisions are difficult.” “Had we refused to act, our nation would have drifted toward fiscal breakdown, worsening poverty, and severe economic uncertainty. Together, we chose reform over ruin and decisiveness over hesitation. We chose long-term national recovery over short-term comfort,” he stated. Acknowledging the heavy cost of the reforms on ordinary Nigerians, the President said, “These decisions came with sacrifice. The rising cost of living triggered by our measures placed enormous pressure on families, workers, and businesses. “Young people searching for jobs felt discouraged. Many questioned whether these difficult decisions would lead to a better future.” Tinubu disclosed that the Nigerian stock market had performed well under his administration. He said the All Share Index had risen from 53,000 in 2023 to a record 250,000 in 2026, a nearly five-fold increase, while overall market capitalisation had surged from N30tn to N160tn. According to the President, “Our economy is now more competitive and better positioned for sustainable growth than it was in 2023. “Public finances are improving. States and local governments have greater resources to invest in their people. Investor confidence is growing. “The stock market is booming, with the All Share Index rising from 53,000 and market capitalisation of N30tn in 2023 to a record All Share Index of 250,000 and market capitalisation of N160tn this year. Companies are declaring record profits and dividends.” On infrastructure, Tinubu said the administration had more roads under construction, reconstruction or rehabilitation at any one time than any preceding administration. He cited 2,700 kilometres of highways spanning five major corridors. They include the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, the Sokoto-Badagry Super Highway, the Abuja-Kaduna-Zaria-Kano Road, the East-West Road and numerous rural access roads. He explained, “Critical infrastructure projects are advancing at an unprecedented scale. Over 2,700 kilometres of highways and major roads are under construction, reconstruction, or rehabilitation. “Significant sections are already completed or nearing completion, improving transportation, reducing travel time, boosting regional trade, and creating thousands of jobs. “Rail modernisation projects are ongoing to improve connectivity, logistics, and economic integration across the federation.” In the oil and gas sector, Tinubu said reforms had reversed a period of investor flight, and that the long delayed $5bn NLNG Train 7 project was nearing completion. “The reforms we instituted have attracted billions of dollars in fresh investment from the international oil companies that had shunned our country. “The $5bn NLNG Train 7 project is nearing completion to boost LNG production capacity, exports, and dividends. “Domestic gas utilisation is expanding. Local refining capacity has improved our energy security,” he stated. On education, the President said the Nigerian Education Loan Fund had reached 1.5 million beneficiaries, disbursing more than N282bn to students who would otherwise have been priced out of higher education. According to him, “The Nigerian Education Loan Fund has provided over 1.5 million students with access to higher education, disbursing more than N282bn to ensure that no willing student is denied access due to financial hardship.” On housing, the Renewed Hope Housing Programme and the Federal Housing Authority together, he said, were delivering over 10,000 housing units across 14 states and the FCT, with major cities being developed in Abuja, Lagos and Kano. “Our Renewed Hope Housing Programme, along with that of the Federal Housing Authority, is delivering over 10,000 housing units across 14 states and the FCT, creating over 300,000 jobs and expanding access to affordable housing,” Tinubu explained. He noted that the CREDICORP consumer credit initiative was opening new economic opportunities for workers and families, and that thousands of primary healthcare centres were being revitalised while health insurance coverage was expanding. On electricity, Tinubu who acknowledged the sector’s depth of dysfunction argued that his administration is confronting the challenges headon. “For years, the power sector suffered from debt, underinvestment, and uncertainty, which weakened generation capacity and limited growth. “Today, we are confronting those challenges directly. Our administration is clearing legacy obligations, expanding transmission infrastructure, investing in renewable energy, and strengthening the national grid because no modern economy can grow in darkness,” said the President. He also cited the stabilisation of the telecommunications sector as a significant but underappreciated achievement. Tinubu said, “After years of severe operational pressures and declining investment, confidence is gradually returning to the sector. “Telecom operators are expanding networks, investing in infrastructure, recruiting Nigerian talent, and widening digital access across the country. A connected Nigeria is a more competitive Nigeria.” On security Tinubu who conceded that challenges remained, insisted that progress was being recorded in various parts of the country’s He argued, “Our Armed Forces and security agencies have intensified operations against terrorists, bandits, kidnappers, oil thieves, and criminal networks. “While challenges remain, many communities and highways are becoming safer and more economically active. “I want to assure you that this government will not relent until every Nigerian can live, work, travel, and dream in safety.” Tinubu noted that his third anniversary in office is not a celebration of completion but as a milestone on an unfinished journey. According to him, “We have not solved every problem, and we are not yet where we want to be. But the foundation for recovery has been laid. “The task before us now is clear: we must ensure that the benefits of reform are felt more directly in the daily lives of ordinary Nigerians.” He appealed for national cohesion and patience, drawing on the broader arc of Nigeria’s history. According to him, “History teaches us that great nations are not built in comfort. They are built through sacrifice, resilience, courage, and collective purpose. “Ours is a nation of extraordinary people. We survived civil war and rebuilt. We overcame dictatorship and restored democracy. “We endured hardship and remain bearers of hope. The Nigerian spirit remains strong and unbroken.” He added, “Today, the world is watching our country again, not as a nation defined by its difficulties, but as a nation determined to rise. “Across agriculture, infrastructure, power, technology, manufacturing, and industry, the signs of recovery are becoming clearer. Confidence is returning. Productivity is improving. Opportunity is expanding.” “Let us reject cynicism and division. Let us move forward together, united in purpose, disciplined in effort, compassionate toward one another, and confident in the greatness that lies ahead.”

The Osun State Police Command has launched a manhunt for a driver involved in a hit-and-run accident that killed two policemen along the Osogbo/Gbongan road in Oogi community. The command’s spokesperson, Abiodun Ojelabi, disclosed this while speaking with our correspondent on Thursday. He said the operatives, identified simply as Kehinde and Tobi, were travelling on a motorcycle when they were hit by a Lexus car on Wednesday in Oogi town. According to Ojelabi, the driver fled the scene immediately after the accident, abandoning the vehicle. “The two police operatives were travelling on a motorcycle when they got hit. One Lexus car hit them. Kehinde and Tobi are the two operatives involved,” he said. Ojelabi added that the police had recovered the Lexus car and the motorcycle involved in the crash and taken both vehicles into custody. “We have launched probe into the accident, and we are tracking the driver of the car. The vehicle and motorcycle involved have been recovered and taken to station,” he said. The police spokesperson further disclosed that one of the deceased operatives had been buried in accordance with Islamic rites. “We have commenced an investigation into the accident,” Ojelabi added.

IBADAN— Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, has advised the gubernatorial candidate of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), Hon. Abimbola Adekanmbi, to forge his own political path and leadership style. The Governor gave the advice during the APM governorship primary and affirmation ceremony held at the Watershed Event Centre in Ibadan, where Adekanmbi was officially unveiled as the party’s flagbearer. Speaking at the well-attended event, Governor Makinde urged his anointed successor to avoid the baggage of past political conflicts. "I have told Bimbo, `Don’t inherit my enemies; chart your own path,`" Governor Makinde stated. "I’m only human and I make mistakes, just like everyone else. He should improve upon the good things we have done for the benefit of the people in Oyo State." The primary, which attracted a massive turnout of party faithful and political stakeholders, followed a strategic alliance between the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) faction loyal to the Governor and the national leadership of the APM. In his acceptance speech, Adekanmbi paid glowing tribute to Governor Makinde, describing him as the architect of modern Oyo State. He promised to consolidate and sustain the administration`s "Omituntun" development agenda. "This responsibility demands humility and commitment to service," Adekanmbi said. "We must come together to campaign, strategize, and ultimately govern for the benefit of the people of Oyo State." During the event, the APM State Chairman, Mr. Adegbenro Fagbemi, presented a Certificate of Return to Adekanmbi, formally cementing his candidacy for the upcoming elections. Candidates for the Senate, House of Representatives, and the State House of Assembly were also affirmed during the political exercise. The high-profile event drew an impressive line-up of top-tier politicians, state executives, and legislative heads from across the state and country, cementing the political weight of the PDP-APM alliance:Oyo State Deputy Governor, Barr. Bayo LawalSpeaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Debo OgundoyinAPM State Chairman, Mr. Adegbenro FagbemiNational and State Legislators, including Hon. Adedeji Stanley OlajideNotable Political Stakeholders, including Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi.

IBADAN — Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has strongly criticized the Federal Government’s approach to establishing state police, labeling the ongoing administrative delays a "waste of time". Speaking at an event in Ibadan, the governor urged President Bola Tinubu to stop routing the process through the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) and instead empower state assemblies to enact the necessary laws. Governor Makinde also made a startling historical claim regarding the regional security outfit, Operation Amotekun, revealing that Lagos State failed to join the initiative because President Tinubu—who functions as the political godfather of the state—opposed its creation. "Amotekun Was Just a Stop-Gap "Reflecting on the security architecture of the Southwest region, Makinde explained that the establishment of the Oyo State Security Network, codenamed Amotekun, in 2020 was never intended to be the final destination for regional security."We wanted state police," Makinde declared. "It was because we couldn`t get it that we set up Amotekun as a stop-gap measure." The governor emphasized that security remains a fundamental pillar of his administration, but argued that a decentralised, constitutional state police force is the only permanent solution to Nigeria’s pressing security challenges. Why Lagos Didn`t Join Amotekun Governor Makinde recalled the legislative unity that birthed the regional security corps, pointing out that nearly all Southwest states passed uniform laws to create the outfit. He explicitly singled out Lagos State for its absence from the arrangement, linking it directly to political directives from President Tinubu. According to Makinde, all Southwest states, except Lagos, enacted legislation to create Amotekun, claiming that Lagos did not join because of opposition from their "boss," referring to Tinubu. FG Urged to Bypass Inspector-General of Police Addressing current efforts to develop state policing frameworks, Makinde argued that involving the executive or the IGP is misguided, emphasizing that it is a constitutional issue that should be handled by the legislature. The governor urged the Presidency to stop relying on the IGP for establishing state structures. He maintained that given proper authorization, state assemblies could swiftly enact necessary legislation. Dismissing the call for memoranda from the National Economic Council as a "waste of time," he argued for direct constitutional amendment by the National Assembly. Concluding, Makinde urged the National Assembly to move forward with the necessary constitutional changes for state policing to avoid further security delays.

Veteran Nollywood actress Shaffy Bello has said she understands why some young women engage in transactional relationships popularly known as “runs,” but advised them not to remain in that lifestyle permanently, stressing the importance of growth, dignity and self-worth beyond survival choices. The actress shared the advice during a recent episode of The Morayo Show hosted by Morayo Afolabi-Brown, where she spoke about economic realities, societal pressure and the struggles many young women face while trying to survive. Speaking candidly during the interview, Bello explained that she does not judge women who turn to sex work because of difficult financial situations. “And if what you’re doing now is being a runs girl to make money, you don’t have to stay there. I understand it. I’m not knocking you. I never judge,” she said. The actress noted that many women are pushed into such decisions because they are responsible for feeding their families or sponsoring younger siblings through school. “If that’s what you have to do right now, if that’s what you have to do to make a living, some girls are doing it because they need to feed mum. They need to send their aburo to school. I understand it,” she added. However, Bello maintained that women should see it only as a temporary phase and strive for something greater. “However, my darlings, don’t stay there. You are more than that,” she advised. The actress also spoke about self-worth and the growing pressure on women to seek validation through social media attention and physical appearance. “There are too many children out there, too many babies that need my voice, that need to hear, ‘No, you don’t have to show your boobs to be sexy.’ That need to hear, ‘No, you don’t have to shake your bum bum to go viral or get attention,`” she said. Reflecting on her own career, Bello explained that she remains focused on acting and using her platform to inspire people rather than chasing every opportunity for money or fame. “I’m an actor. Every actor doesn’t have to be a producer. I face my lane. I do what God asked me to do,” she stated.

LAGOS— The Lagos State Police Command has apprehended a 27-year-old housewife, Motunrayo Bakare, for the alleged brutal murder of her 36-year-old businessman husband, Alaba Bakare. The tragic incident occurred at their residence on Finance Road, Maplewood Estate, in the Oko-Oba/Abule-Egba area of Lagos State. The deceased, popularly known as "Bama," was the owner and managing director of the prominent Bama Hotel and Suites located in the Ojokoro/Abule-Egba area. According to preliminary reports and family disclosures, the couple had recently returned from a luxury family vacation in Dubai with their three children, which was meant to celebrate their anniversary. The celebration turned tragic shortly after their return when Motunrayo allegedly uncovered evidence that her husband had impregnated another woman. Reports indicate that a confrontation occurred following the discovery of the infidelity, which escalated into a fatal assault. Alaba Bakare succumbed to extensive physical injuries sustained during the domestic altercation. Following the attack, the Lagos State Police Command intervened and took Motunrayo Bakare into custody. Then-Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Ade Ajisebutu, confirmed the arrest and stated that the victim`s body had been deposited at the Yaba Mainland Hospital morgue for a comprehensive autopsy. The Lagos State Command ordered an immediate transfer of the case to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Panti, Yaba, for diligent prosecution. Three other individuals, believed to be the suspect`s brothers who were present or assisted during the aftermath, were also detained for questioning. The grim nature of the crime has provoked widespread grief and shock within the local community and across social media platforms. The tragedy has deserted the operations of Bama Hotel and Suites as workers and regular customers reeled from the loss of the young entrepreneur. Meanwhile, the three young children of the marriage have been left effectively orphaned, under the immediate care of extended family members. The victim`s father, Chief Olufemi Bakare, expressed his devastation and demanded swift justice from the state judiciary, stating that no marital grievance justifies such calculating violence. The case has reignited national conversations regarding the rising tide of extreme domestic violence, the devastating psychological impact of marital infidelity, and the urgent need for individuals to seek legal separation or professional counseling rather than resorting to fatal retaliation.

Former Deputy President of the Senate, Ovie Omo-Agege, has officially announced his defection to the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, ahead of the 2027 general elections. THENEWSCREDIT reports that Omo-Agege announced his resignation from the APC days after losing the Delta Central senatorial primary election. In a lengthy statement he issued on Thursday, Omo-Agege said his decision followed weeks of reflection, wide consultations, and honest conversations with political associates, supporters, and stakeholders across the country. The statement read: “Today, I formally announce my decision to join the National Democratic Congress [NDC]. “This decision is the product of weeks of reflection, wide consultations, and honest conversations with the people I serve. I have consulted with my political associates nationwide, supporters, and stakeholders who are the backbone of our communities. Across all these engagements, one truth stood out: Deltans want leadership that listens first, acts with integrity, and delivers results that can be seen and felt in daily life. “I thank the leadership of the NDC for reaching out and engaging me in this process: Senator Seriake Dickson, Leader and Founder; Senator Moses Cleopas, National Chairman; Governor Peter Obi, Presidential Aspirant; and Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, Leader of the Kwankwasiyya Movement and NDC Chieftain. “Their commitment to building a credible, people-first alternative gives me confidence that the NDC is the right platform for Delta State and Nigeria. “The NDC represents that kind of leadership. It is a party built on the principles of inclusion, accountability, grassroots participation, and true federalism. It is a platform where decisions are not made in closed rooms but through open consultation with stakeholders and members. It is a platform where public office is treated as a duty to the people, not a privilege for a few. “After careful consideration, l am convinced that the NDC offers the clearest path to advance the interests of Delta Central, Delta State, and Nigeria. “On this platform, I will contest for the Delta Central Senatorial seat in the 2027 general elections. Let me be clear: this is not about me. “This is about the mandate you entrusted to me in 2019 and the renewed call from our people for my return to the Senate to provide effective representation. That call is loud, consistent, alive, and urgent. I cannot ignore it, and I will not betray the trust you have placed in me. “Delta State holds a position of immense responsibility in Nigeria. We are among the largest producers of oil and gas, resources that have sustained the national economy for decades. Our agricultural lands are fertile and capable of feeding millions. Our business community has shown remarkable resilience despite harsh economic conditions. Our young people are educated, innovative, and ready to lead if given the opportunity. Yet the reality on the ground does not match this potential. “In too many communities, roads have collapsed and remain impassable for months. Primary health centers lack drugs, equipment, and staff. “Schools struggle with overcrowding and inadequate facilities. Young graduates return home without jobs, and small business owners battle a hostile environment and poor infrastructure. Meanwhile, federal allocations to Delta State have consistently run into hundreds of billions of naira annually. The gap between these resources and the lived reality of our people is unacceptable. “Right now, too much of Delta’s wealth sits in CBN accounts while our people suffer from bad roads, collapsed hospitals, and abandoned communities. This is not governance. It is a failure of leadership and a betrayal of public trust. Deltans deserve better than press releases, billboards, and photo-ops. Nigeria deserves better than a political class that treats public office as a personal business. “I believe this situation can and must change. Change requires a platform committed to discipline, transparency, and service. The National Democratic Congress was built for this moment. It stands for accountability, for justice, for inclusion, and for true federalism. It is the only platform strong enough to challenge the cycle of tailure and return power to the people where it belongs. That is why I am joining the NDC. “I know what it takes to build a political structure and make it competitive in Delta State. We did it before for the APC when many said it was impossible. We mobilized at the grassroots, organized our people, and changed the political equation. I bring that same resolve and experience to the NDC. Our immediate priority will be to strengthen the party from the ward level upward, register new members, and prepare a credible slate of candidates for the 2027 elections. “I will not go to Abuja to warm the bench. I am going to fight for Delta Central, and as your senator, my focus will remain on delivering representation that matters. I will take the concerns of Delta Central directly to the National Assembly and ensure they are debated, addressed, and followed through. “I will push for fair allocation of federal projects and resources to our senatorial district. I will work to ensure that every kobo released to Delta State is accounted for and applied to projects that improve the lives of our people. I will also advocate for policies that create jobs, support small and medium enterprises, improve agricultural productivity, and expand access to quality healthcare and education. “I Will represent Delta North, Delta South, and Delta Central with fairness and balance. A divided Delta is a weakened Delta. When we speak with one voice, Abuja listens. When we work together, we can secure the infrastructure, investments, and policies that our state deserves. Beyond the Senate, the NDC Will field candidates for the governorship and other elective positions who understand the challenges of Delta State and have the competence, humility, and character to address them. “Nigeria itself needs a reset. We need leadership that truly restores hope, protects citizens, grows the economy, and respects the rule of law. I will work tirelessly for the victory of our presidential candidate and for a government that puts Nigerians first. This is more than an election cycle. This is a defining moment for Delta State and for Nigeria. “It is a choice between continuing with a system that rewards silence and mediocrity, or choosing a new direction built on accountability and service. To the youth of Delta State: your time is now. Do not accept the lie that you must wait your turn. “Organize in your communities, register to vote, and make your voices impossible to ignore. Your energy, creativity, and courage are the most powerful tools we have to change this state. “To the women who hold our families and communities together: mobilize your networks, your markets, your churches, and your neighborhoods. Your participation will determine the outcome of 2027. To our elders and traditional rulers: your wisdom has guided us through difficult times before. “Speak now for the generation coming behind you. Your voice gives legitimacy and direction to this movement. And to every registered voter: your Permanent Voter’s Card is your greatest power. It is stronger than money, stronger than intimidation, and stronger than propaganda. Protect it, use it, and use it wisely in 2027. “In 2027, we will end the era of excuses, empty promises, and leaders who vanish after elections. We will return power to the people of Delta State and to the people of Nigeria. Together, under the banner of the National Democratic Congress, we will reclaim Delta State. Together, we will reclaim Nigeria. “The work starts now. The time is now. The people are ready.”

The pan-Yoruba socio-cultural and political organisation, Afenifere, has taken a swipe at the administration of President Bola Tinubu, alleging that it has left Nigeria worse than it met it three years ago when he assumed office. Afenifere said this in a statement titled, “Tinubu’s Third Year Report: Summum Malum or Summum Bonum”, and signed by its leader, His Royal Highness, Oba Oladipo Olaitan, and National Publicity Secretary, Prince Justice Faloye. The group stated that the Tinubu administration is breeding poverty, unemployment and insecurity. “Afenifere is fearful of the current course of our democracy, and commiserates with Nigerian citizens following three years of the inauguration of this maladministration that has bred poverty, unemployment, mass killings and kidnappings, tampering with democratic federalism, subjugation of other arms of government, etc. “According to Chapter Two, Section 14 of the Nigerian Constitution, the primary purpose of governance is welfare and security. Across the world, citizens are motivated by their governments either with Summum Malum – fear of Ultimate Evil – violent death, poverty, tyranny, or Summum Bonum – promise of Ultimate Good – homes, prosperity, security etc,” it said. The group lamented that for an administration that came to power on a mantra of renewed hope, one can only dare to hope that the country’s electoral system could do the right thing by the next Inauguration Day. It also bemoaned insecurity in the country, corruption and economic stagnation, accusing the present administration of dragging Nigeria backwards. The apex Yoruba socio-cultural and political organisation stated: “The nightmare of ultimate evil has become a reality under the APC administration, with teachers being beheaded, children being kidnapped, and villages ransacked and displaced. The ongoing kidnapping of students and teachers and gruesome murders in Kwara, Oyo and other States is a painful reminder of the Tinubu government’s culpable wilful negligence of not restructuring our security architecture, especially the failure to create State and Community Police. “Nigerians can’t help but question whether there is an unholy pact between the APC and terrorists following the admission by some APC stalwarts that they imported terrorists to embarrass President Jonathan out of office in 2015, after which insecurity moved wholesale to President Buhari’s Northwest region, and now to President Tinubu’s Southwest region. “Previously, we heard of politicians sleeping in coffins for political pacts with their godfathers; now our whole democracy is wearing coffin shoes under APC governance.”