☰     THENEWSCREDIT
HOME BREAKING NEWS POLITICS METRO EDUCATION HEALTH SPORT ENTERTAINMENT OPINION VIDEOS SEARCH CONTACT

BREAKING


EDUCATION /  Wed 18 Feb
Posted By; Akintayo Asamu

LAUTECH Medical Students Shut Down Campus Over "Downgrade" of Anatomy and Physiology Departments

The main gates of Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) were under lock and key on Tuesday as hundreds of students from the College of Health Sciences launched a massive protest. The demonstration follows a controversial Senate decision to relocate the Department of Anatomy and the Department of Physiology from the College of Health Sciences to the Faculty of Pure and Applied Sciences. The unrest was triggered by an internal memo, signed by Olayinka O. Balogun and dated January 21, 2026. The document revealed that the University Senate approved the transfer of these core medical departments, along with their non-medic staff, to the applied sciences faculty to "ease career progression." However, the students view this move as a systemic "downgrade" that threatens the professional integrity of their degrees. Chanting solidarity songs and bearing placards, the protesters argued that these disciplines are the bedrock of clinical medicine and do not belong in a purely experimental faculty. "Our Discipline is Not Experimental" The protesters expressed fears that the relocation would alienate them from the medical community and affect their future licensing and professional recognition. "Physiology belongs to Basic Medical Sciences. LAUTECH, don’t separate us from Medicine! Our discipline is not experimental," the students declared during the barricade, vowing to remain at the school gates until the management rescinds the order. The university administration maintains that the shift is an administrative strategy to facilitate better career paths for non-clinical staff within those departments. Despite the escalating tension, the institution’s Public Relations Officer, Lekan Fadeyi, was unavailable for comment at the time of filing this report. The campus remains in a state of flux as academic activities were disrupted by the morning-long blockade. Students have insisted that the "integrity of Medical Sciences" must be protected at all costs. Would you like me to draft a formal petition based on these grievances or an opinion piece for a student blog?
POLITICS /  Wed 18 Feb
Posted By; Akintayo Asamu

2027: Bunvic Launches Tinubu Support Group in Oyo, Receives Hundreds of PDP Defectors

Hon. Segun Odebunmi, popularly known as Bunvic, has officially launched the Tinubu Support Group (TSG) in Surulere Local Government Area, signaling a major grassroots offensive for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s second-term bid. Odebunmi, the current Chairman of the Ogun-Osun River Basin Development Authority (OORBDA), unveiled the initiative on Tuesday during an expansive meeting of All Progressives Congress (APC) loyalists in Iresapa, Oyo State. Addressing the crowd, the former federal lawmaker described President Tinubu’s economic policies as "bold and necessary." He specifically credited the administration for: Fuel subsidy removal and forex stabilization efforts. The successful implementation of the Nigerian Student Loan Scheme. Strategic interventions leading to a reduction in food prices and enhanced national security. "The President deserves a second term to consolidate these reforms," Odebunmi stated. He charged supporters to move beyond rhetoric and initiate "aggressive mobilization" across every polling unit and ward to ensure an overwhelming APC victory. The momentum of the launch was bolstered by the defection of hundreds of members from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC. Led by Hon. Olukunle Oloyede (widely known as Oluk Oil and Gas), the defectors cited Odebunmi’s leadership track record and the tangible impacts of the Renewed Hope Agenda as the primary drivers for their switch. Oloyede pledged to bring even more members into the APC fold ahead of the upcoming party congresses. As the former Chairman of the House Committee on Information, Bunvic urged party faithful to remain disciplined ambassadors of the APC. He emphasized that the path to victory requires unwavering unity and commitment to the party’s leadership structures at the local level.
NEWS /  Tue 17 Feb
Posted By; Akintayo Asamu

Sultan declares Wednesday first day of Ramadan in Nigeria

The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, has declared Wednesday, February 18, 2026, as the first day of Ramadan 1447AH, following the sighting of the crescent moon across parts of Nigeria. The announcement was made in a statement issued on Tuesday in Sokoto and signed by Professor Sambo Wali Junaid, Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs to the Sultanate Council. According to the Sultan, reports of the new moon were received from various Islamic leaders and moon-sighting committees across the country on Tuesday, the 29th day of Sha’aban, confirming the commencement of the holy month. He therefore called on Muslims nationwide to begin the Ramadan fast on Wednesday in accordance with Islamic injunctions. The Sultan urged the Muslim faithful to dedicate the sacred month to prayers for peace, unity, and stability in Nigeria, particularly in light of the security challenges facing some parts of the country. He also encouraged Muslims to pray for the nation’s leaders, asking Allah to grant them wisdom and guide them in addressing the country’s pressing issues. Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, is observed by Muslims worldwide as a period of fasting, devotion, reflection, and acts of charity.
POLITICS /  Tue 17 Feb
Posted By; Akintayo Asamu

Tinubu took 20 years to prepare for Presidency – Joe Igbokwe

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, APC, in Lagos State, Joe Igbokwe, has declared that President Bola Tinubu has no rival ahead of the 2027 presidential election. Igbokwe said there is no magic anybody can perform to defeat Tinubu. Posting on Facebook, he wrote: “Without sounding immodest I can tell you that PBAT has no rival. There is no magic that will make people to stand with you if you do not have anything to bring to the table. There is always a payday for every good work. Victory beckons for PBAT.” According to him, unseating Tinubu can only happen in the imagination of the opposition. Igbokwe recalled that it took Tinubu 20 years to prepare to become President. “He marked his times for more than 20 years waiting for the right time to throw his hat into the ring. It came in 2023. “He is now PBAT and he is reworking Nigeria. Now, in your wildest imaginations you think you will unseat him.Where is the muscle,” he wrote.
NEWS /  Tue 17 Feb
Posted By; Akintayo Asamu

Ramadan 2026: Sultan calls for moon sighting this Tuesday

The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, has urged Muslims across Nigeria to commence the search for the new moon of Ramadan 1447 AH on Tuesday, February 17, 2026. The call was contained in an official statement issued in Sokoto on Tuesday by the Sultanate Council and signed by Wazirin Sokoto and Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, Sambo Junaidu. “Muslims who sight the crescent moon after sunset on Tuesday are expected to immediately report the sighting to the Sultan through designated contact numbers provided by the council. “Muslims across the country are hereby requested to look out for the new moon of Ramadan 1447 AH on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, and to report any credible sighting to the Sultan of Sokoto promptly,” the statement read. It added that all reports received would be thoroughly verified before an official announcement would be made on the commencement of the Ramadan fast. The Sultanate Council described the moon sighting exercise as a long-established Islamic practice used to determine the beginning of the holy month. He called on Muslims to carry out the exercise with honesty, fear of God, and a strong sense of religious duty. “The Sultanate Council appeals to Muslims to participate in this important religious obligation with sincerity, as the final decision on the commencement of Ramadan will be based on verified and authentic reports,” the statement further said. In Nigeria, the Sultan of Sokoto, as the spiritual leader of Muslims and head of the NSCIA, traditionally announces the beginning and end of Ramadan, following consultations with Islamic scholars and moon sighting committees across the country. Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, is observed by Muslims as a sacred period of fasting from dawn to sunset, increased prayers, self-discipline, and acts of charity. The month concludes with the celebration of Eid-el-Fitr, marking the completion of the fasting period.
NEWS /  Mon 16 Feb
Posted By; Akintayo Asamu

Monday sit-at-home: Again, Soludo seals shops, commends other traders for compliance.

The Anambra State Government has again sealed shops belonging to traders in markets around Onitsha and its environs for failing to open on Monday. THENEWSCREDIT gathered that most of the sealed shops were at the Building Materials Market, Ogidi, where traders did not open for business on Monday. The state government, however, commended many traders who came to the market that day, especially those at the Electrical Parts Dealers Market, Obosi. The Special Adviser to the Governor on Markets, Evarist Uba, undertook a routine monitoring exercise to assess the level of compliance with the state government’s directive for markets to open on Mondays. During the tour, Uba reported that a substantial number of shops at the Electrical Parts Dealers Market, Obosi, were open for business on Monday, marking a notable departure from the prolonged weekly lockdowns that have stifled economic activities across the state. He said, “The Obosi Electrical Parts Market is a key hub for electrical components in the Southeast, and I’m happy to see a significant level of activity. “The government is intentionally building a state that embraces productivity. The government of Anambra State, under the leadership of Governor Chukwuma Soludo, is highly impressed by the courage and patriotism displayed by the electrical parts dealers in Obosi, as 80 percent of the market is open. “Their decision to open their shops is a clear testament to their faith in the government’s efforts to restore peace and their commitment to the economic prosperity of the state.” At the Building Materials Market, Ogidi, some shops that were under lock and key were sealed by the state government. The Special Adviser commended those who complied and warned that the sealed shops would remain closed for two weeks. Leaders of the markets who spoke during the tour expressed their support for the government’s stance. The Chairman of the Electrical Parts Dealers Association, Obosi, Chike Onunkwo, and Chief Jude Nwankwo, President of the International Building Materials Market, Ogidi, praised the enhanced security provided by the state. They pointed out that the government has shown commitment and, as such, traders must play their part in rebuilding the state economy. The monitoring committee comprised the Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor; the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security, AVM Ben Chiobi (rtd); and the Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Christian Aburime. The team also visited other major markets in Nnewi and Onitsha, among others, to monitor compliance with the government’s directive
METRO /  Mon 16 Feb
Posted By; Akintayo Asamu

Looters Attack Oyo State Firefighters During Tanker Emergency in Ibadan; One Officer Seriously Injured

Operatives of the Oyo State Fire Service were brutally attacked by hoodlums on Sunday, February 15, 2026, while responding to a high-risk tanker emergency in the capital city. The incident, which occurred at Atari-Agbon in the Oki area of Olodo, Lagelu Local Government Area, left several firefighters injured, with one officer fighting for his life following a severe head injury. The emergency team, led by Assistant Chief Fire Superintendent (ACFS) Bamidele Samsudeen, was dispatched following a distress call regarding a MACK trailer tanker (Registration No. KSH329XA). The vehicle, loaded with 45,000 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), had swerved and blocked the road, posing an immediate threat of a catastrophic explosion. THENEWSCREDIT reports that,Firefighters successfully managed to neutralise the flammability of the fuel using chemical foam compounds. However, as the team began packing their equipment, a mob of suspected looters—intent on stealing valuables at the scene—launched a violent assault using stones, broken bottles, and cutlasses. The Chairman of the Oyo State Fire Service, Maroof Akinwande, described the scene as "chaotic," noting that it took nearly an hour to rescue the critically injured officer due to the hostility of the hoodlums. Our correspondent reports ,says, In a disturbing turn of events, the first hospital the team reached refused to admit the injured officer, fearing that the mob might follow and vandalise their facilities. The officer has since been moved to a second medical facility where he is reportedly responding to treatment. The Oyo State Police Command has intervened, with the incident officially reported at the Iyana Ofa Police Station. Several suspects have already been taken into custody. Investigations are continuing to identify and apprehend remaining members of the mob. Akinwande condemned the attack as a "threat to public safety," emphasizing that such violence against first responders hinders critical life-saving operations.
NEWS /  Mon 16 Feb
Posted By; Akintayo Asamu

2027: South-East NANS Pledges to Purchase Re-election Form for Tinubu, Citing Student Loan Success

ANAMBRA - in a significant political development within the student movement, the South-East chapter of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has formally endorsed President Bola Tinubu for a second term in office ahead of the 2027 general elections. The student body announced its intention to personally fund the purchase of the President’s “Expression of Interest” form and vowed to mobilize a massive 20,000-man youth rally to support his endorsement. The declaration was made on Monday during a high-profile meeting at the Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University (COOU), Igbariam campus. Speaking under the theme “Discovering Purpose and Working in Ordination 2026,” the NANS South-East Coordinator, Comrade Okoye Okpala, described the President as a "genuine progressive" whose policies have directly rescued the academic careers of thousands. Central to the endorsement is the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), which Okpala hailed as a transformative intervention. He noted that the zero-interest loan scheme has transitioned from a campaign promise to a tangible reality, with over ₦183 billion reportedly disbursed to nearly one million students. "For years, brilliant Nigerians abandoned their dreams due to financial lack," Okpala stated. "The current administration has restored dignity and hope to families. This is inclusive leadership that proves students are not an afterthought in governance." The NANS leader also used the platform to contrast President Tinubu’s policies with those of the opposition. Specifically referencing past statements attributed to former Labour Party candidate Peter Obi regarding the loan scheme, Okpala raised concerns about the future of current beneficiaries under a different administration. "As defenders of student interests, we must ask: what happens to those relying on this support if these policies are dismantled?" he queried. "We stand with policies that keep us in school and reduce the financial burden on our parents." Ending his address, Okpala emphasized that the support from the South-East zone is not rooted in ethnic or partisan sentiment but is a data-driven response to "measurable impact." By choosing to back Tinubu three years into his first term, the South-East NANS chapter has signaled a proactive stance in the 2027 conversation, prioritizing educational stability and the expansion of the student loan registry over traditional political affiliations.
NEWS /  Mon 16 Feb
Posted By; Akintayo Asamu

Emergency plenary: N’Assembly moves to shift presidential poll to Feb13.

The National Assembly announced on Sunday that it would reconvene its plenary session on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, cutting short its recess amid indications that lawmakers may review the date set for the 2027 presidential election. Findings by our correspondent showed that the National Assembly may shift the presidential poll to February 13, 2027. In a notice signed by the Clerk to the National Assembly, Kamoru Ogunlana, senators and members of the House of Representatives were directed to resume sitting at 11 am and adjust their schedules accordingly, as “very crucial decisions” are expected to be taken during the session. “I am directed to inform all Distinguished Senators and Honourable Members of the National Assembly that the Senate and House of Representatives shall reconvene plenary session at 11:00 am on Tuesday, 17th February 2026, respectively,” the notice read. “Consequently, all Distinguished Senators and Honourable Members are kindly requested to take note and reschedule their engagements accordingly to enable them attend the session, as very crucial decisions shall be taken by each Chamber during the session,” Ogunlana added. However, sources within the National Assembly, speaking to The PUNCH on condition of anonymity, revealed that the public notice masks a more pressing agenda. “It is more of an extraordinary plenary session to review the 2027 presidential election date as stipulated in the Electoral Act amendment. That is why our recess has been cut short through the announcement made by the Clerk of the National Assembly,” a senator confided. “The ultimate aim is to give legislative backing to INEC’s request to address the concerns raised regarding the 2027 election slated to hold during Ramadan,” the lawmaker added. Another Senate insider told The PUNCH: “If all goes according to plan, the presidential poll date may be brought forward to February 13 from the previously announced February 20 by INEC.” Similarly, a Senate source told THENEWSCREDIT: “This session is crucial. It is about more than dates—it is about ensuring that every Nigerian, regardless of faith, has a fair opportunity to participate in the electoral process. The decisions we take here could define the credibility of the 2027 elections.” The development comes barely a week after the Senate, bowing to public pressure, approved the electronic transmission of election results to the Independent National Electoral Commission’s Result Viewing Portal, while retaining manual collation as a backup in areas where technology may fail. The emergency reconsideration arose from a disputed clause in the Electoral Act (Repeal and Re-enactment) Amendment Bill, 2026, which had triggered days of nationwide protests and intense criticism from opposition figures, civil society groups, and youth movements. Despite approving the electronic transmission system, the Senate stopped short of making it compulsory and rejected calls for real-time uploads of results—a key demand of protesters who had accused lawmakers of undermining electoral integrity ahead of the 2027 general elections. Under the revised provision, presiding officers at polling units must electronically transmit results to the IReV portal after voting concludes and documentation is completed. Where electronic transmission is not possible due to network challenges, the manual result sheet, Form EC8A, will serve as the primary basis for collation and declaration. Senate President Godswill Akpabio, while putting the motion to a voice vote, urged senators who opposed the amendment to formally challenge it on the floor. With plenary set to resume, lawmakers are expected to continue deliberations on pending bills, committee reports, and other legislative matters, including further work on the Electoral Act amendment and related reforms ahead of the 2027 polls. Meanwhile, the Joint National Assembly Conference Committee, constituted to reconcile differences in the Electoral Amendment Bill passed separately by the Senate and the House of Representatives, is expected to meet on Monday. The harmonised bill will subsequently be transmitted to President Bola Tinubu for assent. THENEWSCREDIT learned that the joint panel, comprising members from both chambers, has been given a one-week window to resolve contentious provisions in the bill. Earlier, THENEWSCREDIT reported that INEC acknowledged public concerns over the timing of the 2027 general elections, which coincides with the holy month of Ramadan, a period of fasting and spiritual reflection for millions of Nigerian Muslims. The commission indicated that it may seek legislative intervention if necessary. The National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Haruna, disclosed the development in a statement last Friday, clarifying that the Timetable and Schedule of Activities for the 2027 elections were developed in strict compliance with the Constitution, the Electoral Act 2022, and INEC’s Guidelines and Regulations for the Conduct of Elections, 2022. According to the statement, INEC had initially slated Saturday, February 20, 2027, for the presidential and National Assembly elections, and Saturday, March 6, 2027, for governorship and state Houses of Assembly elections. However, Muslim Rights Concern and other Islamic stakeholders rejected the proposed timetable, arguing that it clashes with the Ramadan fasting period, which they consider insensitive to Muslim voters, election officials, and observers. Former presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, Atiku Abubakar, was among the notable voices calling for reconsideration. On his official X (formerly Twitter) handle last Friday, Atiku said the February 20 date falls “squarely within the Ramadan period (February 7 – March 8, 2027), a sacred season of fasting, reflection, and spiritual devotion for millions of Nigerian Muslims.” Bashir Ahmad, a former presidential aide, also urged INEC via his X account to reconsider the dates. He wrote, “If the intention is to encourage full and inclusive participation in the electoral process, scheduling such a critical national exercise during Ramadan may present challenges for a large segment of the population. Many Muslims tend to reduce engagement in worldly activities during this period in order to focus on religious obligations. “Given the significant Muslim population in this country, it may be worthwhile to reconsider the timing to ensure broader participation and convenience for all citizens. I do hope this observation will be taken in the spirit of inclusiveness and national cohesion.” Reacting, INEC acknowledged the concerns, assuring the public that it remains sensitive to legitimate considerations that may affect electoral participation and the overall conduct of elections. “Notwithstanding the foregoing, the commission has taken due notice of concerns expressed by stakeholders regarding the coincidence of the scheduled dates with certain nationally recognised holidays and observances. “The commission wishes to assure the public that it remains sensitive to all legitimate concerns that may impact electoral participation and the overall conduct of elections. “In view of these representations, the commission is currently undertaking consultations and may, where necessary, seek appropriate legislative intervention to address the concerns raised, while ensuring that any adjustment remains consistent with constitutional and statutory requirements,” the statement read. The latest move by the National Assembly builds on prior proposals to adjust the timing of the 2027 elections. In October last year, lawmakers suggested holding the polls in November 2026, roughly six months ahead of the usual schedule, to ensure that all election petitions would be concluded before the May 29, 2027, handover date. The draft amendment, unveiled during a public hearing organised by the Senate and House Committees on Electoral Matters in Abuja, read: “Elections into the office of the President and Governor of a State shall be held not later than 185 days before the expiration of the term of office of the last holder of the office.” Chairman of the House Committee on Electoral Matters, Adebayo Balogun, explained that the move was designed to “ensure that all manner of election litigations are dispensed with before the swearing in of winners.” The National Assembly also proposed amending sections 285 and 139 of the 1999 Constitution to shorten timelines for election petitions, reducing tribunal judgments from 180 to 90 days, appellate court decisions from 90 to 60 days, and ensuring that the entire judicial process does not exceed 185 days. Other key proposals included early voting for security personnel, INEC staff, accredited journalists, and observers at least 14 days before election day. Stakeholders, including INEC, represented by Prof. Abdullahi Zuru, supported the reforms, particularly the push for electronic voting and compulsory e-transmission of results, describing them as critical to enhancing credibility and reducing post-election disputes. Political Implications The decision to reconvene the National Assembly ahead of schedule comes amid a politically charged atmosphere, with opposition parties, civil society organisations, and Muslim advocacy groups pressing for adjustments to ensure inclusivity and fairness in the electoral process. In July last year, mixed reactions trailed a proposal to amend the 1999 Constitution to allow all elections in Nigeria to be conducted on the same day in 2027. While leading opposition parties—the Peoples Democratic Party, Labour Party, African Democratic Congress, and New Nigeria People’s Party—supported the initiative, the ruling All Progressives Congress rejected it, warning of dire consequences. The proposal, championed by the House Committee on Constitution Review under Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, emerged from broad consultations across the six geopolitical zones. As the National Assembly prepares to reconvene, political analysts predict that Tuesday’s plenary could set the tone for the 2027 elections, with the potential rescheduling of the presidential poll to February 13 marking a historic adjustment driven by religious and public considerations. Observers note that the move, if implemented, could enhance voter participation among Muslims while also testing INEC’s capacity to deliver credible elections under a compressed timeline. Lawmakers meet on Electoral Act harmonisation Meanwhile, the Joint National Assembly Conference Committee is expected to meet on Monday (today) to harmonise the Senate and House versions of the Electoral Amendment Bill. Once reconciled, the bill will be sent to President Bola Tinubu for assent, potentially paving the way for a legal framework that accommodates both the timing of elections and the use of electronic transmission. The outcome of these deliberations will be closely watched by political parties, religious groups, and civil society organisations, as the 2027 elections are shaping up to be a litmus test for Nigeria’s electoral system and its ability to reconcile legal, religious, and technological considerations. Senate cites power, Internet for ‘real-time’ exclusion On Sunday, the Senate defended its decision to exclude the “real-time” clause from the Electoral Act amendment, citing poor internet and power infrastructure. Senate Leader Senator Opeyemi Bamidele explained that Clause 60(3), requiring presiding officers to transmit polling unit results to IReV in real-time, was reviewed to avoid unnecessary crises. Citing Nigerian Communications Commission data, he said broadband coverage in 2025 was 70 per cent, with internet penetration at 44.53 per cent, and Nigeria ranked 129th out of 150 countries in fixed broadband speed at 33.32 Mbps—far below global standards. “By global standards, the real-time electronic transmission of election results may not be practicable at this stage of our development. To avoid a situation that compounds our country’s woes, it is better that we make it discretionary since Section 62(2) of the Electoral Act, 2022 has already established the National Electronic Register of Election Results,” Bamidele said. On power supply, he cited official figures showing 85 million Nigerians—about 43 per cent—still lack access to grid electricity. “Even though our generation capacity hovers roughly between 12,000 and 13,500 megawatts, our distribution and transmission capacity is acutely limited. As we all know, it can only deliver 4,500 megawatts to households nationwide. But with the Electricity Act, 2025, our power sector will record significant growth from this financial year,” he added. Bamidele said lawmaking must be based on facts, not emotion. “All these facts were before us for consideration before we initially decided to retain Section 60(3 & 5) of the Electoral Act, 2022, in the interest of the people and security. The data speak directly to the stark realities of our federation and not emotion or sentiment.” Describing lawmaking as the “lifeblood” of public institutions, he argued that laws disconnected from practical realities risk instability. “The term ‘real time’ was removed to ensure Nigeria’s electoral framework remains workable given current infrastructural and technological limitations, while still addressing citizens’ concerns across the country,” he further argued.
NEWS /  Sun 15 Feb
Posted By; Akintayo Asamu

Kwara Gov Under Fire for Vowing FCT APC Win Amid State Insecurity

Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has drawn intense criticism following a now-viral video in which he spoke about delivering victory for the All Progressives Congress in the Federal Capital Territory Council Election, amid worsening insecurity in parts of his state. In the trending clip from a recent political gathering, AbdulRazaq, while addressing party members, declared his commitment to securing electoral success for the ruling party in Abuja. “On behalf of the excellencies and many other esteemed colleagues on the committee, I assure Mr President and our party leaders that we will work as a team with local stakeholders and community influencers to deliver FCT to the All Progressives Congress. “I’m confident that the good people of the Federal Capital Territory across the six council areas will come out to align with our party and show truly that APC is not just the party of now but also the reliable vessel to Nigeria’s progress and sustainable future,” AbdulRasaq said. The governor’s remarks have since triggered heated reactions on social media, with many Nigerians questioning the timing and priorities of the statement as Kwara continues to confront deadly attacks, abductions, and growing fears across rural communities. The backlash comes amid heightened tension in the state following the circulation of a disturbing video by suspected terrorists, allegedly showing some victims from the February 3 attack on Woro community in Kaiama Local Government Area. Reacting to the footage on Saturday, the Kwara State Government, in a statement issued by the Commissioner for Communications, Bolanle Olukoju, said authorities were working with security agencies and local stakeholders to analyse the video and establish the identities of those shown. “The Kwara State Government is deeply concerned over the disturbing video released by terrorists earlier today, allegedly showing some persons taken during the tragic February 3 attack on Woro community. “Government officials and security agencies are carefully analysing the video to establish the identities of the individuals shown.” The government noted that conflicting accounts regarding the number of abducted persons had complicated official confirmation. “Since the incident, there have been varying accounts regarding the number of persons abducted. For this reason, neither the State Government nor security agencies have announced a definitive figure. “Our priority remains the safe rescue of every affected citizen and ensuring that those responsible are brought to justice.” Despite the official response, the governor’s FCT comment has continued to generate controversy online, with critics arguing that the statement appeared disconnected from the security challenges confronting Kwara communities. A barrage of reactions followed on X, where several users openly condemned the governor’s remarks. OurFaveOnlineDoc (@OurFavOnlineDoc) wrote,”My job to Tinubu is to deliver FCT for APC. Not to deliver Kwara people from terrorism, not to deliver good governance, not to care for families of the murdered — the only thing in this governor’s head is votes.” Everything Politics (@Everypolitics1) stated, “The oath of office is to serve the people of Kwara and not to deliver the FCT for any political party. Governance is about security, development and accountability, not electoral strategy.” Tochi (Nfunaala) (@TochiPN) added, “His job is not to protect his state from terrorists but to win FCT. Premium clownery.” Another user, Teablack75 (@teablack75), wrote, “The reason I fear for Nigerians is that these leaders boldly tell us they don’t care. You will never hear ‘my job is to deliver good governance to my people.’” Sundayikale (@sundayikale) commented, “Deliver FCT when Kwara is bleeding? A governor that doesn’t care about his people but politics.” Similarly, Alexo224 (@AlexEZIREALI43) said, “Your own people are being killed, kidnapped, and displaced, yet you’re talking about delivery jobs for elections.” Adékúnlé Odérìndé (@AdekunleOderind) also criticised the governor, writing, “A governor that cannot deliver security to his people wants to deliver votes elsewhere. Jokers in seats of power.” The criticism reflects growing frustration among citizens following repeated reports of violent attacks and threats across communities in Kwara State. Recent security briefings have highlighted incidents involving suspected terrorists, including killings, abductions, and the circulation of threatening letters allegedly warning of impending assaults. Residents of some affected areas have reportedly fled their homes over fears of further violence, while authorities continue security operations. Our correspondents gathered that residents of Ira, Inaja and Aho had started leaving their homes over the threat letters by the suspected terrorists. A traditional chief in Ira, who spoke on condition of anonymity due to safety concerns, said the letter was dropped at a motorcycle park near the central mosque.
Page 78 of 124



                    

Home   About Contact

2026  ©
Developed by KITE