A former lawmaker representing Oyo Central Senatorial District and chieftain of the All Progressives Congress in Oyo State, Ayoade Adeseun, on Sunday, formally resigned his appointment as Mayegun of Ogbomosoland. He said there is no need for the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Olaoye, to quash his earlier suspension order. Speaking during a press conference at the Onipanu community in Ogbomoso, Surulere Local Government Area of the state. Adeseun, who was in the Senate between 2011 and 2015, attributed his decision to the alleged high-handedness of Oba Olaoye. Recall that Oba Olaoye, on Monday, March 23, 2026, announced the indefinite suspension of Adeseun as Mayegun of Ogbomosoland over alleged gross misconduct. The monarch’s decision was conveyed in a letter dated March 23, 2026, and signed by the palace secretary, Toyin Ajamu. The letter cited acts of insubordination, wilful disregard, and persistent disrespect towards the throne. According to the letter, the action was taken to safeguard the dignity and sanctity of the traditional institution, noting that the former lawmaker’s conduct had become a matter of concern. “I write on behalf of His Imperial Majesty, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye (Orumogege III), the Soun of Ogbomosoland and Paramount Ruler of Ogbomosoland, concerning your recent and continued conduct, which has become a matter of grave concern and embarrassment to the palace and the revered stool of the Soun,” the letter read. However, Adeseun, at a press conference in Ogbomoso on Sunday, said he was not ready to sit down with Olaoye, hence his decision to resign his appointment. He blamed the Soun over what he described as divisive policies, adding that the monarch, since ascending the throne, has tried to set the peace-loving people of Ogbomoso against one another through religion and other unfriendly policies. “I am not surprised by the suspension order since I have decided not to join forces with Soun to fight his perceived enemies. “The issue of religion should not be the basis for division among the people of Ogbomosoland. Both the Christians and Muslims have been cohabiting peacefully before the enthronement of Oba Olaoye as the 21st Soun of Ogbomosoland. “I am a devout Muslim, while my wife is a devout Christian. We have been married for 42 years, and we have not had any issues over religion, just like other sons and daughters of Ogbomoso. “The issue of the Chief Imam, Ayilara, is still pending in court. The Soun should not play the role of the presiding judge in this matter. “The Kabiyesi should allow the court to rule on the matter. If the court, in its ruling, removes him, so be it. We should all embrace the rule of law,” Adeseun said.

The Christian Association of Nigeria, on Thursday, said Christians in the northern part of the country must take proactive steps to defend themselves against persistent attacks. The declaration followed the Palm Sunday attack on Angwan Rukuba community in Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State. The incident, which occurred around 8pm, left more than 20 people dead and several others injured. Following the attack, the Defence Headquarters placed troops on nationwide alert ahead of the Easter celebrations, assuring Nigerians of tightened security. Addressing journalists during the end-of-the-month briefing on Tuesday in Abuja, the Director, Defence Media Operations, Maj Gen Michael Onoja, assured citizens of heightened vigilance by troops during the Easter celebrations. But speaking to Saturday PUNCH, the Chairman of CAN in the 19 northern states and the Federal Capital Territory, Joseph Hayab, said despite the wave of killings and persistent security challenges, the Christian community would not give in to fear. “These killers are not spirits. These killers are human beings; they may have got some upper hand, but when our people really organise themselves, a time will come when you see that the person who is chasing you, you are chasing him back. “Unless and until all of us start organising ourselves to chase those who have been chasing us, they will torment us for the next 200 years. If we are no longer afraid of our attackers, what have we done? Have we been able to defend ourselves? Must we say we are defending ourselves since we are not afraid of the attackers? “Since 2009 till today, they have been tormenting us every time it is Easter and Christmas; they will deny us the joy of celebrating. They (terrorists) are telling us that they will attack us. What kind of a thing is that? So, should we stop everything and go into hiding? No, every church leader should tell his members that enough is enough of this rubbish,” Hayab said. When asked if CAN would advise members to carry arms, Hayab said the group would not disclose all its strategies. “If we start telling everything we know, we will just help the enemy of the church to triumph. But what we are simply saying is that we are not happy with the killings, but we will not allow the killers to intimidate us and stop us from celebrating Easter the way it should be celebrated. “We are angry with the killings; we are angry with the inability of government and security services to stop the killings, but we are also calling on Christians not to be deterred because this whole war is psychological. By the time we give in and stop doing what we’re supposed to do spiritually, they have succeeded in what they want to do. “Do you know why they are attacking places of worship? It is so that we will stop going to places of worship, and we’ll stop doing what we are doing. So, as leaders, if we don’t tell our people and encourage them to stand firm, we’re giving in to a cheap blackmailer.” Hayab said the wave of killings and violence, particularly around the Easter period, was deeply troubling but would not break the resolve of the Christian community. He lamented that the continued violence had become overwhelming, especially as believers prepare for Easter celebrations. He noted that many Nigerians were beginning to lose faith in official assurances, describing the situation as a serious test for the government. Security analysts differ on defence A retired military officer, Brigadier General John Sura, advocated lawful self-defence and stronger community-based security measures as part of efforts to curb the attacks. Sura, a former governorship aspirant in Plateau State, said citizens should be encouraged to take minimal steps within the law to protect themselves rather than remain vulnerable during attacks. He said, “Self-defence allows you to carry a Dane gun, and then you have a licence to carry that. If you go to the police, they can give you that. You can also carry very sharp objects that you keep to defend yourself in case of any attacks. “I have followed the discussions of the DG, SSS. In the confines of the law, you are allowed to carry something to defend yourself. Like the incident that happened in Plateau, those terrorists were pulling people into their houses and slaughtering them because they had nothing to defend themselves. “The last kick of a horse does not stop it from dying, but you should be able to inflict injury on the person before he kills you, not to be killed like an animal. Therefore, everyone should be encouraged to put in whatever is minimal to defend themselves when such things happen.” He also called on state governments to strengthen local security structures, including vigilance groups and community outfits, to serve as a second line of defence. Sura cited the need for improved deployment of local security initiatives such as Operation Rainbow in the state, noting that better coordination and presence could help prevent attacks. “The police and the military cannot be everywhere. We must augment them with local structures and timely intelligence,” he added. Sura identified intelligence failure and poor collaboration between communities and security agencies as major factors behind the recurring attacks, urging residents to share timely information with authorities. He called on governors to activate and properly deploy state-backed security outfits, while emphasising that security is a shared responsibility across federal, state and local levels. But Lieutenant Colonel Abdulwahab Ademola (retd.) advised against arming civilians, arguing that this could create further risks and worsen insecurity. Instead, Ademola said the government should focus on equipping communities with dual-purpose technologies that could serve both civilian and security needs. He said communities must be strengthened through the use of simple technology, particularly early warning systems, as the first line of defence against terror attacks. Ademola explained that residents could be trained to use basic tools to detect and report threats in real time, noting that attackers often mobilise openly without being intercepted. “Security agencies cannot be everywhere, but communities can be supported with structured local policing backed by early warning mechanisms,” he said. Beyond technology, he called for regular training and simulation drills within communities to prepare residents for emergencies. He said communities should be taught how to respond during attacks, including how to disperse quickly, protect vulnerable groups, and avoid gathering in large numbers, which often increases casualties. PFN demands end to killings Also, the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria called for a thorough investigation and a rethink of Nigeria’s security approach. The National Secretary of PFN, David Bakare, who spoke in an interview with our correspondent, described the resurgence of insecurity as “deeply troubling”, warning that the situation appears to be worsening despite earlier gains made by security agencies. According to him, the ability of attackers to strike within Jos city, rather than in outlying areas, raises serious concerns about the current security architecture and intelligence system. “We were already celebrating as if we had overcome the worst,” he said, noting that the latest development was suggestive of a dangerous relapse. “There is a need to carefully investigate what exactly happened and what is responsible for this return of insecurity,” Bakare added. He stressed that beyond routine condemnations and deployment of troops, authorities must undertake a comprehensive review to understand the root causes of the renewed violence. Bakare questioned whether the resurgence could be linked to factors such as increased funding for insurgents, political dynamics, or gaps within the nation’s security framework. “It is not just about sending more troops or opening military camps everywhere. There must be a rethink, a reinvestigation of what exactly is happening before we begin to respond,” he said. The PFN scribe urged the Federal Government and security agencies to adopt a holistic strategy that was beyond reactive measures, insisting that identifying the underlying causes would lead to more effective and lasting solutions. He also highlighted the vulnerability of Christian communities during major religious observances, especially as the Easter season approaches. Efforts to contact the Force Public Relations Officer, Anthony Okon, were unsuccessful as his phone was unreachable at the time of filing this report. But the Inspector General of Police, Olatunji Disu, in a statement on Wednesday, ordered massive deployment of security assets to Jos to restore calm and ensure the arrest of those responsible. The statement, signed by Okon, added that in response to the situation, the IG deployed the Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of Operations, Umar Nadada, to the state to assess the security situation, coordinate ongoing operations, and strengthen the existing security architecture.

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has promoted three High Chiefs in Ibadanland to Obas in their absence. THENEWSCREDIT reports that this is the first time such would happened in the history of Yorubaland. The three High Chiefs, Ekeerin Balogun of Ibadanland, Akeem Adewoyin, Ekaarun Olubadan of Ibadanland, Kola Babalola and Ekaarun Balogun of Ibadanland, Sharafadeen Alli, had declined invitation for the coronation ceremony. Following their invitation by the state government a few days ago the three individuals claimed they would not be available for the ceremony. However, the state governor, Seyi Makinde, represented by his Deputy, Adebayo Lawal, pronounced them as Obas at the event, on Friday. The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja was also absent at the event but was represented by Balogun of Ibadanland, Tajudeen Ajibola. The three chiefs also made good their resolve and were not present at the coronation event but Lawal who spoke on behalf of Makinde pronounced the them Obas. He said, “Distinguished newly crown Kabiesi, Kade o pe Lori ki bata o pe lese”. The event was attended by Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland, Eddy Oyewole-Foko, Osi Olubadan, Abiodun Kola-Daisi, Ekeerin Olubadan, Adebayo Akande, Chief Nureni Akanbi, Secretary to the State government, Professor Musibau Babatunde, Araba of Ibadanlanf Ifalere Adegbola and former Minister of Trade and Industry, Onikepo Akande. Others are; House of representatives member representing Ibarapa North/ Ibarapa Central, Adebayo Adepoju, Commissioner for Chieftaincy Matters, Ademola Ojo, Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Wasiu Olatunbosun, President General, Central Council for Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Barrister Sulaimon Ajeniyi Ajewole,

The Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Zone 2 Command, Mr Olohundare Jimoh, has declared that officers must pay fares before boarding commercial vehicles, warning against abuse of authority. Jimoh spoke on Wednesday at Obalende Garage, Lagos State, during a sensitisation meeting with drivers and transport workers marking National Police Day 2026. He stressed that relations between the police and the public must be based on partnership, not coercion, urging both sides to support each other voluntarily. “No police officer has the right to enter your vehicle without paying. We should assist one another willingly, not by force,” he said. Jimoh called for stronger cooperation to maintain safety and order on roads, insisting there was no conflict between officers and transport unions. He said their relationship remained cordial and rooted in mutual respect, dismissing perceptions of persistent friction between both groups. The AIG warned officers against extortion and misconduct, stressing zero tolerance for unprofessional behaviour within the force. “I don’t collect money from officers. We don’t arrest people arbitrarily. If you have issues with any officer, report directly to me,” he said. He urged the public to report harassment or misconduct, assuring that complaints would receive prompt attention and action. Jimoh advised drivers to avoid confrontations with officers, urging them to channel grievances through proper authorities. On safety, he warned against speeding, drunk driving, and substance abuse, describing them as major threats to lives on Nigerian roads. “If you drink, do not drive. Ensure your vehicle is roadworthy. Faulty vehicles can expose you to danger if they break down,” he said. He also cautioned against chemical stimulants, noting they impair judgement and increase accident risks. Jimoh urged discipline, patience, and compliance with traffic rules, adding that personal well-being and stable homes improve performance. He reaffirmed the police’s commitment to sustained engagement with transport unions to build trust, reduce conflict, and enhance nationwide road safety. (NAN)

The Federal Government has declared Friday, April 3, and Monday, April 6, 2026, as public holidays to mark this year’s Easter celebration. The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made the declaration on behalf of the Federal Government on Wednesday. In a statement signed by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Magdalene Ajani, the minister congratulated Christians across Nigeria and in the diaspora on the occasion of Easter. Tunji-Ojo urged Nigerians to imbibe the virtues of selflessness, forgiveness, forbearance, and love, as exemplified by the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. He also called on citizens to remain committed to the values of tolerance and community spirit, noting that such virtues are vital for strengthening national unity. The minister reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to policies aimed at promoting national rebirth, economic growth, and shared prosperity for all Nigerians.

The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja, has warned Mogajis (family heads) and Baales (village heads) in Ibadanland against harboring criminals in their domains. Ladoja, a former governor of Oyo State, gave this warning during the installation of new Mogajis and Baales in Ibadanland. The event, which took place at the Olubadan Palace in the Oja Oba area of Ibadan, was held on Monday. THENEWSCREDIT reports that 14 Mogajis and eight Baales were installed. It was attended by Oba Tajudeen Ajibola, Balogun of Ibadanland; Oba Eddy Oyewole, Otun Olubadan of Ibadanland; Oba Kola Adegbola, Otun Balogun of Ibadanland; Oba Abiodun Kola-Daisi, Osi Olubadan of Ibadanland; Oba Abiodun Azeez Agagagugu, Asipa Balogun of Ibadanland; Oba Adebayo Akande, Ekerin Olubadan of Ibadanland; High Chief Akeem Adewoyin, Ekerin Balogun of Ibadanland; and High Chief Sarafadeen Alli, Ekarun Balogun of Ibadanland. Ladoja, while speaking at the event, urged the newly installed traditional title holders and other community leaders to take the security of their communities seriously. The traditional ruler further maintained that security is everybody’s business. He acknowledged that insecurity is one of the problems facing the country. He said, “As family compound and community heads in Ibadan city and less city areas, I am sure you are aware that one of the greatest challenges facing Nigeria is the issue of security. “As grassroots leaders, you need to be vigilant about what is happening in your environment. If it were for glamour alone, this installation exercise would not have been necessary. But it is because of the responsibility attached to it that we are here to formalise your appointment as Mogajis and Baales. Security is everybody’s business.”

The Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has condemned the latest killing of residents in Plateau State, describing the tragedy as another grim reminder of Nigeria’s inability to protect its citizens. In a statement shared on her Facebook page on Monday, the lawmaker decried the persistent violence across Plateau communities, where repeated attacks have claimed dozens of lives in recent months. Addressing the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, Akpoti-Uduaghan referenced the strong assurances he gave during his Senate screening, saying Nigerians are still waiting to see those commitments reflected in real security outcomes. She wrote, “Dear General Christopher Musa, Angwan Rukuba is another brutal reminder that Nigerians remain unprotected. “During your screening at the Senate chambers, your words were filled with promises and I allowed myself a sigh of relief… at last, I thought.” Enough of condolences, Natasha demands action after Plateau killings. Credit: Facebook | Natasha H Akpoti The senator urged the defence minister to take immediate, decisive action—or step aside for someone capable of delivering results. “Well, prove NOW you are different and secure lives, or step aside. Enough of condolences. Enough of excuses. Nigerians want action, protection, and results!!,” she added. Bandits on motorcycle allegedly slaughtered scores in Jos on Sunday night According to the Plateau State Police Command, the attack claimed the lives of 12 people, which included 10 men and two women. THENEWSCREDIT reports that following the deadly attack, the state government imposed a 48-hour curfew on Jos North Local Government Area in the Angwan Rukuba community, which would take effect from midnight of March 29 to April 1, 2026.The latest incident comes just weeks after at least 20 security operatives and vigilantes were reportedly killed in an ambush in Kanam Local Government Area. Several communities in Plateau and neighbouring states have suffered repeated attacks, kidnappings, and cattle rustling over the years, with residents consistently pleading for stronger security deployment. In 2025, coordinated attacks across communities including Bokkos and Barkin Ladi left more than 100 people dead and displaced thousands. Similarly, on Christmas Eve in 2023, over 140 villagers were killed in a series of assaults that drew national and international condemnation.

The Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulrosheed Akanbi, on Sunday said many Nigerians might seek a constitutional amendment to allow President Bola Tinubu to remain in office beyond the constitutionally permitted two terms. The monarch, in a congratulatory message issued by his spokesperson, Ibrahim Alli, to mark Tinubu’s 74th birthday, described the President as a decisive leader who has laid a renewed foundation of hope for the country. “Many Nigerians may call for a constitutional review to enable Tinubu to serve more than two terms in office. He is a leader who knows what he is doing,” he said. The Oluwo said the President had distinguished himself through what he described as a firm campaign against illegalities that had stalled the country’s economic growth. He added that the President’s administrative prowess had driven notable gains, citing improvements in the naira, a rise in foreign reserves from about $1bn to between $49.5bn and $50.45bn as of late February/March 2026, and strengthened economic indices. The monarch attributed the gains to structural reforms, including exchange rate unification, increased oil output, and higher foreign investment inflows. The Oluwo also commended Tinubu for granting local government autonomy, increasing allocations to states, expanding road infrastructure, and improving palliative distribution at the grassroots. According to him, past leaders attempted similar economic reforms but were overwhelmed by public and political pressure. He said only a capable leader could implement tough but necessary decisions to reposition the economy. The Oluwo added that the President’s policies had begun to impact the standard of living, noting that the next phase would be stability. He said, “You are not yet a capable leader until you take decisions and stand by them. Many past presidents attempted to remove obstacles to economic prosperity but were overrun by public outcries. Tinubu has demonstrated uncommon leadership through reforms. “Nigeria’s foreign reserves have increased to over $49.5bn from about $1bn. Local government autonomy is taking effect, states earn more, and road projects, including the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road and the Sokoto-Badagry Road, are ongoing.” THENEWSCREDIT reports that Tinubu marked his 74th birthday on Sunday, opting for a low-key celebration in view of the prevailing national mood and ongoing economic challenges facing the country. Since assuming office on May 29, 2023, Tinubu’s administration has implemented major economic reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidy and unification of the foreign exchange system, policies the government says are aimed at stabilising the economy and attracting investment. Several political leaders and stakeholders have commended Tinubu’s leadership style and reform agenda, often describing him as a courageous and visionary leader committed to repositioning the country’s economy and governance structure. Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution (as amended) limits presidents to two terms of four years each, meaning any attempt to extend tenure beyond this provision would require a constitutional amendment approved by the National Assembly and state legislatures.

President Bola Tinubu has expressed gratitude to Nigerians for the outpouring of goodwill messages, prayers and support as he marks his 74th birthday. In a special message released on Sunday from the Presidential Villa in Abuja, Tinubu thanked citizens across the country for their patriotism and solidarity with his administration. The ‘Special Birthday Message’ read: “Today, as clock another year on the journey of life, I’m filled with joy and gratitude for the opportunity to serve this great nation. I want to take this moment to thank Nigerians for their messages, show of love and prayers on the occasion of my 74th birthday. I thank all our citizens for their patriotism, solidarity and support for our administration. “To those who have taken space in newspapers or paid for air time on radio and television to wish me well, thank you immensely. “I must thank my wife, First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, for her kind and loving words. I also thank Vice President Kashim Shettima for all he said about me. “Consistent with my tradition of marking my birthday in line with the mood of the nation, I resolved to observe this year’s birthday low-key. “As I mark this special day, I am reminded of the challenges we’ve faced since we initiated our reforms. I’m glad that our sacrifices have not been in vain, as we can see a glimmer of light at the end of the tunnel, despite the temporary setback caused by the ongoing Middle East crisis. “The credit for the positive outcomes we have achieved does not belong solely to me, our Renewed Hope team, or our government. We achieved the gains together. “As we march towards the third anniversary of our administration, it is my deepest conviction that we shall succeed in building a brighter future for our citizens and future generations. “We are determined to confront some of the challenges we face Today, and with your continued support, we shall overcome. “Let us continue to work together to build a stronger, prosperous and more resilient nation that will make Nigeria the pride of Africa. Thank you all, and happy 74th birthday to me!”

The Federal Government has again reaffirmed its commitment to overhaul policing and national security, saying State Police is now essential to confront Nigeria’s changing threats. Minister of Police Affairs, Senator Ibrahim Gaidam, who stated this in Abuja while hosting the Inspector General of Police Steering Committee on the State Police Establishment Framework, tied the plan to the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, arguing that decentralising police commands will sharpen responsiveness, intelligence and grassroots crime-fighting. “The dynamic nature of today’s security landscape demands innovative and localized solutions. State policing is no longer optional—it is imperative,” the minister stated. Gaidam, according to a statement by Fatima Muhammed Adamu of the ministry’s Press & Public Relations Unit, commended the Inspector General of Police, Olatunji Disu for the swift implementation of policy directives aimed at improving policing efficiency across the country, noting that such proactive leadership demonstrates a shared commitment to safeguarding lives and property nationwide. Earlier, the committee chairman, Prof. Olu Ogunsakin briefed the minister on a ongoing efforts to develop a comprehensive and practical framework for the successful establishment of state police systems. Ogunsakin emphasized that the initiative was designed to deliver a stronger sense of safety and public trust in law enforcement institutions. He added that the IGP fully backs a modern, resilient and community-oriented security architecture able to meet present and future challenges. The meeting marks a significant milestone in the Federal Government’s broader police reform agenda. It underscores ongoing efforts to refine operational frameworks and ensure that the proposed state policing system is efficient, accountable, and responsive to the unique security needs of communities across Nigeria. In attendance were CP Bode Ojajuni, the Committee Secretary; CP Emmanuel Ojukwu (rtd) for retired officers, DCP Sulyman Gulma and ACP Ike Okafor.