The Anglican Bishop of Umuahia Diocese, Rt. Rev. Geoffrey Ibeabuchi, has warned that the release of repentant terrorists into the society could create more danger in peaceful communities. He also warned that the reintegration could compromise the fight against insecurity and further endanger the lives of Nigerian military officers in the battlefield. The bishop who stated this in his address during the 3rd Session of 11th Synod at St. Paul’s Anglican Church, Umuahia, on Friday, expressed doubt that the bandits have actually repented from their dangerous past. “Did the bandits actually repent from their banditry and terrorism? What evidence of repentance can be shown to Nigerians? “Who de-radicalized them and through what process?” Bishop Ibeabuchi asked. The bishop condemned the continued borrowing by the Federal Government at the time it is claiming boom from subsidy removal. He chided the Nigerian Senate for regularly approving loan requests from the President Bola Tinubu-led executive arm of government. He expressed concern that the Federal Government’s claims that Port Harcourt and Warri refineries have been revitalized ended up as a mirage. According to him, the people of the Niger Delta could be supported and monitored to produce quality petroleum products from modular refineries. This, he said, would boost availability and affordability of petroleum products.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has condemned what he described as the weaponization of hunger and poverty through the distribution of food items in Northern Nigeria. His spokesperson, Phrank Shaibu, made this known in a statement on Friday, Worker’s Day. Atiku described the recent spectacle involving the First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, flagging off the distribution of 100 trucks of rice and N1.2 billion in palliatives to northern states and the FCT as a calculated political performance staged on the altar of mass hardship. He said, “What Nigerians are witnessing today is the tragic normalization of poverty under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Families can no longer afford basic meals, inflation has ravaged household incomes, and millions are being pushed daily into extreme deprivation. “Yet, instead of addressing the structural causes of this crisis, the government has chosen the path of optics—distributing food in carefully choreographed ceremonies while the underlying suffering deepens. “Since 2023, Northern farmers have suffered declining productivity due to the Tinubu administration’s policy failures and its inability to secure farmlands. Vast agricultural belts have been abandoned to insecurity, leaving farmers displaced and food supply chains severely weakened. “Ironically, the same government and its promoters now seek to exploit the resulting hardship by turning food into a campaign tool. What the North truly needs is genuine, sustainable food security policies—not campaign lunch packs wrapped in party insignia. “It is even more troubling that this pattern did not begin today. During Ramadan last year, the president’s son, Seyi Tinubu, embarked on a widely publicized distribution of food items across parts of the North—an exercise presented as charity but clearly designed to test the waters of this now entrenched strategy of politicizing hunger. What was then an experiment has now evolved into a full-blown policy of optics over substance. “Let it be said without equivocation: Nigerians are not beggars to be pacified with periodic handouts while their livelihoods collapse.” Recall that Nigeria’s first lady, on Thursday, unveiled an initiative to distribute N1.2 billion worth of rice as palliative to Nigerians.

Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has warned officers and men that the era of professional recklessness and impunity is over. He reminded them that no badge gives them a licence to kill or a uniform a shield from justice. The IGP stated this on Thursday while delivering a keynote address during the passing out of 1,068 retrained police constables at the Police Mobile Force Base, 26 PMF, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. He said that an unskilled officer with a gun is a danger to the public, while a skilled and disciplined officer is a true guardian of the people. The IGP lauded the Akwa Ibom Command for pioneering the comprehensive retraining of female police officers in arms handling last year, adding that gender is not a barrier to competence. He reminded officers that Force Order 237 remains binding, stressing that firearms should only be used as a last resort, proportionately, and strictly within the bounds of the law. “Impunity ends now. Any officer who misuses his weapon, who kills a citizen without lawful justification, will be dismissed and prosecuted. Not transferred. Not queried. Not redeployed. No badge is a licence to kill. No uniform is a shield from justice,” Disu said. The IGP further warned against extortion, reporting to duty under the influence of alcohol, and reckless use of firearms. Disu said that any officer caught violating the order would face summary dismissal and criminal prosecution. The IGP charged the newly retrained constables to carry their weapons with pride but restraint, wear their uniforms with dignity, and treat citizens with respect. Earlier in his remarks, the Commissioner of Police, Akwa Ibom Command, Baba Azare, disclosed that the retrained personnel included a specially selected cohort for the newly established Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU). Azare said they were created in line with the IGP’s directive to serve as a strategic strike force against violent crimes across the state. Azare highlighted key operational successes recorded by the command, including the safe evacuation of explosive devices at the Ikot Ekpene custodial centre and the rescue of kidnapped victims along the Calabar–Oron waterways through seamless inter-agency collaboration. He reaffirmed the command’s commitment to community policing, urging residents of Akwa Ibom to continue partnering with the police by providing timely and credible information.

The Supreme Court, on Thursday, invalidated the national convention of the Peoples Democratic Party held in Ibadan, Oyo State, on November 15 and 16, 2025, deepening the leadership crisis rocking Nigeria’s main opposition party ahead of the 2027 general elections. In a split judgment delivered by a five-member panel of the apex court, three justices held that the appeal filed by a faction of the party led by former Minister of Special Duties, Tanimu Turaki (SAN), lacked merit and affirmed the concurrent decisions of the Federal High Court and the Court of Appeal nullifying the convention. Justice Stephen Adah, who delivered the lead judgment in appeal number SC/CV/164/2026, held that the appellants acted in flagrant disobedience of a subsisting order of the Federal High Court restraining them from proceeding with the planned convention pending compliance with earlier directives of the court. “The disobedience of the court order is not disputed,” Justice Adah held, adding that what transpired amounted to “a threat to the administration of justice in Nigeria.” The apex court consequently dismissed both the appeal and cross-appeals and ordered parties to bear their respective costs. The dispute arose from the controversial Ibadan convention organised by the Turaki-led faction of the PDP despite pending court orders and unresolved disputes over congresses conducted in several states. Aggrieved party members had approached the Federal High Court in Abuja, arguing that the organisers failed to comply with statutory requirements under the Electoral Act and the party’s constitution before proceeding with the convention. The trial court subsequently restrained the party from holding the convention pending compliance with its directives. However, despite the order, the convention went ahead in Ibadan and produced a factional leadership structure, triggering fresh litigation and accusations of forum shopping within the party. In its judgment, the Supreme Court strongly condemned what it described as a deliberate attempt by political actors to undermine judicial authority by securing conflicting orders from courts of coordinate jurisdiction. Justice Adah said instead of obeying the order of the Federal High Court or pursuing lawful appellate remedies, the appellants allegedly approached another High Court in Ibadan to obtain orders that enabled them to proceed with the convention. “The appellant did not go on appeal but went to another High Court where they secured orders overriding the existing order of the Federal High Court and carried on with the party convention,” the justice said. Olawepo-Hashim urges Tinubu, INEC to shift primaries to September The apex court described the conduct as “an unparalleled abuse of court process” that struck “at the very roots of the administration of justice system.” Justice Adah warned that continued disregard for judicial orders by politicians posed grave dangers to constitutional democracy and the rule of law. “The rule of law is not an ornamentality, revoked, destroyed or discarded in practice. It is the fundamental architecture on which the legitimacy of governance rests,” he stated. He added that once political actors begin to treat lawful judicial processes as optional, “the very essence of constitutional democracy is imperilled.” The court further held that political parties, though voluntary associations, derive their legal existence and authority from the Constitution and must therefore operate within constitutional and judicial limits. Relying on Sections 221, 222 and 229 of the 1999 Constitution, the apex court held that political parties remain constitutional institutions established for the purpose of participating in governance and elections and are therefore bound by lawful court orders. Justice Adah noted that the Federal High Court, being a superior court of record vested with judicial powers under the Constitution, could not be ignored merely because a political party considered its orders inconvenient. The apex court also upheld the findings of the lower courts that abuse of court process had been established following the move by the PDP faction to obtain what was described as a counter-order from a court of coordinate jurisdiction in Ibadan. The Court of Appeal had, in its March 9 judgment, affirmed the earlier decision of the Federal High Court and held that the convention was conducted in violation of subsisting judicial orders and contrary to established legal procedures. Dissatisfied with the appellate court’s decision, the Turaki-led faction proceeded to the Supreme Court, seeking five principal reliefs and one general relief, including orders setting aside the judgments of the lower courts and validating the Ibadan convention. However, the apex court rejected the appeal in its entirety. The Supreme Court had reserved judgment in the appeal after hearing arguments from parties on April 22.

ABUJA – In a major move to fix Nigeria’s perennial electricity crisis, President Bola Tinubu has approved a ₦3.3 trillion payment plan to settle "legacy debts" that have crippled the power sector for over a decade. The Presidency announced the breakthrough on Sunday, noting that the move is part of the Presidential Power Sector Financial Reforms Programme. The debts, which accumulated between February 2015 and March 2025, were finalized following a rigorous verification process to ensure a transparent resolution. The Federal Government has already hit the ground running. According to the State House, 15 power plants have signed settlement agreements totaling ₦2.3 trillion. To back these agreements, the government has raised ₦501 billion. Of this amount, ₦223 billion has already been disbursed to stakeholders within the power value chain, with further payments currently being processed. Olu Arowolo-Verheijen, Special Adviser on Energy to the President, explained that the intervention is designed to do more than just pay off old bills. "This programme is about restoring confidence across the power sector—ensuring gas suppliers are paid and power plants can keep running," she said. "It is part of a broader set of reforms including better metering and service-based tariffs that link what you pay to the quality of electricity you receive." She further emphasized that the administration is prioritizing supply to businesses and small enterprises to drive job creation and economic growth. The government expects this massive liquidity injection to yield immediate benefits for citizens: Payments to gas suppliers and GenCos ensure plants stay operational. A stabilized value chain reduces the frequency of grid collapses and outages. Reliable power is expected to lower production costs for businesses and attract new investments. President Tinubu commended the stakeholders involved in reaching this agreement and confirmed that Series II of the repayment plan is scheduled to begin this quarter. The administration remains optimistic that by clearing these financial hurdles, the power sector will finally move toward a self-sustaining system that provides consistent electricity for homes and industries across the country.

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.