Category: Nigeria

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Disu replaces Egbetokun as 23rd Inspector-General of Police

A source within the Police Service Commission has told The Guardian that Kayode Egbetokun has been removed as the 22nd Inspector-General of Police by President Bola Tinubu.

According to the source, Egbetokun is expected to be replaced by Tunji Disu, an Assistant Inspector-General of Police recently posted to oversee the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) Annex, Alagbon, Lagos.

The source disclosed that Egbetokun was at the Presidential Villa on Monday, February 23, 2026, where he was reportedly directed to begin preparations for the handover of office.

Egbetokun’s tenure as Inspector-General was marked by a series of controversies, with his extended stay in office, despite statutory retirement provisions, forming the centrepiece of public criticism.

His tenure was extended beyond the mandatory retirement threshold of 60 years of age or 35 years in service, a move that drew sustained criticism from civil society groups, legal experts and commentators. Critics argued that the extension violated established police service rules and undermined institutional discipline.

Among the controversies that trailed his leadership were allegations surrounding the promotion of Bukola Kuti to the rank of Assistant Commissioner of Police. Critics alleged that her perceived closeness to the Inspector-General conferred undue advantage, fuelling accusations of favouritism and nepotism within the Nigeria Police Force. These allegations were denied by police authorities.

Further controversy arose following claims that ₦100 million from Anambra State’s security vote was traced to the bank account of Victor, Egbetokun’s son. The allegation sparked widespread public concern over the possible diversion of state security funds for personal benefit.

Rather than permitting an independent investigation into the claims, critics alleged that police authorities deployed institutional resources to pursue legal action against individuals and media platforms that reported the matter, deepening suspicions of corruption and abuse of office. Police authorities, however, maintained that the reports were defamatory.

During this period, Egbetokun’s office was repeatedly in the news over legal actions against journalists and activists. He initiated multiple charges against activist Omoyele Sowore and SaharaReporters after Sowore publicly described him as an “illegal IGP.”

The dispute escalated into protracted legal battles, with the Federal High Court issuing injunctions restricting further publications relating to Egbetokun and members of his family. Critics interpreted these court actions as attempts to stifle dissent and weaken press freedom.

Following additional reports on alleged promotions and financial improprieties, further court orders were issued restraining media organisations from publishing reports concerning Egbetokun, his son Victor, and Bukola Kuti.

Observers argued that, rather than addressing the allegations through transparent and independent investigations, the police leadership appeared more focused on legal countermeasures against critics—reinforcing public perceptions of an embattled Inspector-General relying on state authority to defend personal and professional interests. (Guardian)

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Rivers, Kano, FCT polls reflect confidence in Tinubu – Lagos APC

The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has described the outcome of the recent by-elections in Rivers and Kano States, as well as the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), as a clear referendum on the presidency of Bola Tinubu.

In a statement on Sunday by its spokesman, Mogaji Seye Oladejo, the party expressed appreciation to the people of the affected constituencies and Nigerians at large for what it termed overwhelming support for the ruling party.

According to the Lagos APC, the resounding victories recorded by its candidates reaffirm the electorate’s confidence in President Tinubu’s leadership and the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

The party maintained that the results demonstrate public endorsement of ongoing economic reforms, infrastructural expansion, and institutional strengthening initiatives at both federal and state levels.

“The outcome of the by-elections stands as a clear and unmistakable referendum on the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the progressive ideals guiding governance in our nation,” the statement read.

The party argued that despite what it described as attempts by opposition elements to misrepresent the direction of the country, voters delivered a decisive verdict at the polls. It added that the results reflected Nigerians’ recognition of what it called bold leadership and courageous reforms, as well as an understanding that nation-building requires patience and continuity.

The Lagos APC further stated that the elections underscored what it described as the limited electoral impact of opposition rhetoric and social media activism, noting that digital prominence did not translate into votes at the ballot box.

It described the victories as a major boost for the ruling party ahead of the 2027 general elections, expressing confidence that the momentum generated by the by-elections signals broader national support for the APC.

The party also commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for conducting the elections and praised security agencies for maintaining peace and order throughout the process, thereby enabling citizens to exercise their civic responsibilities in a secure environment.

Oladejo lauded party faithful, campaign teams, and volunteers for their dedication and grassroots engagement, which he said contributed significantly to the outcome.

He reiterated the Lagos APC’s unwavering support for President Tinubu and called on all Nigerians, including members of the opposition, to collaborate in building a stronger, more prosperous, and united nation. (Guardian)

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Gunmen attack Obi, Odigie-Oyegun, ADC chiefs in Edo

Former presidential candidate, Peter Obi, erstwhile National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, and some chieftains of the African Democratic Congress were on Tuesday allegedly attacked by suspected thugs in Edo State.

Obi’s former campaign spokesman and National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement Worldwide, Dr Yunusa Tanko, disclosed this in a statement issued in Abuja.

The statement read, “Peter Obi and the leadership of the ADC are under siege and attack in Benin, Edo State. At the formal declaration of Olumide Akpata into the African Democratic Congress, armed individuals followed us from the ADC Secretariat to the residence of Chief John Odigie-Oyegun.

“They shot at the gate and destroyed several vehicles in what appears to be a survived assassination attempt on our lives. Democracy is in danger.”

In photos and videos sent by Tanko, several SUV windscreens were smashed, while the gate leading to Odigie-Oyegun’s residence was riddled with bullets.

The alleged attack occurred during political activities surrounding the formal declaration of Olumide Akpata as an ADC member, heightening concerns about political tensions in the state.

Tuesday’s reported attack in Edo adds another layer of tension to an already charged political atmosphere, as opposition figures continue to challenge recent electoral outcomes and raise concerns about the safety of political actors and the state of Nigeria’s democracy.

The incident comes barely 24 hours after the ADC candidate in the Abuja Municipal Area Council chairmanship election, Dr Moses Paul and the Obidient Movement on Monday rejected the outcome of the February 21 poll, alleging widespread irregularities and insisting that the declared results did not reflect the true will of the people.

The Independent National Electoral Commission declared Christopher Maikalangu of the APC as the elected chairman of AMAC, having scored the highest number of votes cast — 40,295 out of the total 62,861 valid votes.

Paul finished second with 12,109 votes, while the People’s Democratic Party candidate garnered 3,398 votes.

However, in a statement issued in Abuja on Monday, Paul accused INEC of mishandling the election, citing alleged voter suppression, result manipulation, intimidation of party supporters, and vote buying across several wards. (Punch)

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FG seals Plateau mine after gas leak kills 37

The Federal Government has ordered the immediate closure of a mining site in Plateau State after about 37 villagers reportedly died from inhaling toxic gases during artisanal mining activities.

PUNCH Metro gathered from a post by security analyst Zagazola Makama on X on Wednesday that 25 other persons were hospitalised after exposure to suspected carbon monoxide at the mining site in Zurak, located in Wase Local Government Area.

According to the report, the victims—mostly young men aged between 20 and 35—were carrying out routine underground mining operations when they inhaled toxic gases believed to have accumulated in poorly ventilated tunnels.

Following the incident, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, directed that all activities within Mining Licence 11810, operated by Solid Unit Nigeria Limited, be suspended after the tragedy in the Zurak community of Wase LGA.

The licence, owned by Abdullahi Dan-China, lies between longitudes 10.34.45 and 10.35.50 and latitudes 9.13.45 and 9.14.40.

The minister gave the directives in a statement issued on Wednesday by the Special Assistant on Media to the minister, Segun Tomori, in Abuja.

Tomori said the minister was on a condolence call to the Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, where he expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and described the victims as “innocent citizens trying to earn a living.”

Alake urged the governor to convey his solidarity to the affected community.

“The minister sympathised with the governor over the loss of the innocent citizens who died while trying to earn a living and urged him to convey his deep sorrow and solidarity with the people of Wase over the irreparable loss,” the statement read.

The minister has also dispatched a high-level investigative team led by the permanent secretary in the ministry, Yusuf Yabo, to determine both the immediate and remote causes of the incident and recommend sanctions.

The team, according to the statement, includes experts in mining, environmental compliance and artisanal and small-scale mining cooperatives.

“The minister has dispatched a team of officials and investigators to probe the remote and immediate causes of the incident and recommend appropriate sanctions,” the statement noted.

“The team also includes experts in mining, environmental compliance and artisanal cooperatives. The minister is coordinating the team and support services to ensure effective management of the situation.”

Officials said the Federal Government would make further disclosures as investigations progress. (Punch)

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Troops kill five kidnappers, rescue woman in Plateau raid

Troops of Operation Enduring Peace have eliminated five suspected kidnappers and rescued an abducted woman during a coordinated raid on a criminal hideout in Angwan Boka, Sopp District of Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State.

The operation, carried out last Tuesday evening, followed an actionable intelligence obtained from two suspects arrested a day earlier on February 16. The suspects, identified as members of a kidnapping syndicate terrorising the area, reportedly provided details that led the troops to the gang’s hideout.

According to the Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force, Captain Chinonso Polycarp Oteh, the troops stormed the location and immediately came under fire from the kidnappers. A fierce gun battle ensued, during which four of the suspects were neutralised.

In a dramatic turn during the firefight, the two suspects, earlier arrested, attempted to overpower the soldiers and escape custody, but were subdued and neutralised as well.

Recovered items from the scene included three mobile phones, N17,600 in cash, and substances suspected to be illicit drugs.

The abducted victim, identified as Hauwa Suleiman, was found unharmed. She was debriefed by security operatives before being reunited with her family.

Captain Oteh noted that the troops have intensified offensive operations in the area to track down fleeing members of the syndicate and dismantle the remaining criminal network.

The Commander of Operation Enduring Peace, Major General Folusho Oyinlola, commended the troops for their swift response and urged residents to continue supporting security agencies in the ongoing fight against banditry and insurgency. (ThisDay)

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Poly lecturers hail Tinubu for Ekiti road expansion

The Academic Staff Union of Polytechnics, Federal Polytechnic, Ado-Ekiti Chapter, has lauded the Federal Government for the expansion of Ado-Ijan-Ikare Road in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, which is the road leading to the institution.

The lecturers, in a statement by the ASUP-FPA Chairman, Caleb Adeosun, and the Publicity Secretary, Oyewale Oyelola, made available in Ado Ekiti on Thursday, also appreciated the efforts of the senators, Opeyemi Bamidele (Ekiti Central), Yemi Adaramodu (South) and Cyril Fasuyi (North), “for facilitating the expansion of the major access road to the polytechnic, which havre been in a deplorable state for many years”.

“ASUP-FPA appreciates the efforts of the three senators representing Ekiti State at the National Assembly who amplified our concerns over the deplorable state of the polytechnic road.

“Particularly, we appreciate the Senate Leader, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, who invited union leaders to a meeting at his constituency office in March 2024 and gave the polytechnic community assurance after we staged a protest over the deplorable state of Ado–Ijan-Ikare Road,” the lecturers stated.

They, however, urged the senators “to continue to perform their oversight functions and ensure the delivery of quality work by the contractor handling the project”.

The union, while appreciating the senators representing the state for the ongoing expansion work, said, “We know their efforts led to the development and steady progress on the road.

“Our union does not only agitate or criticise. As a progressive-minded union, we also applaud the government when we deem it fit”, the lecturers stated.

The union also praised Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, for the construction of the Ring Road linking the Ado Ekiti – Ijan Road to Afao – Iworoko – Ado Ekiti Road.

They said, “The Ring Road is a great relief to staff members of the polytechnic because it has reduced traffic on the institution’s road and travel time.

“The union also appreciated the Founder of Afe Babalola University, Aare Afe Babalola, for “consistently using his resources to carry out palliative rehabilitation on the Ado – Ijan – Ikare Road over the years”.

Recall that recently, contractors began rehabilitation work on the Ado – Ijan axis of the Ado – Ijan – Ikare Road, a federal road linking Ekiti State with states including Ondo and Kogi, which has been in deplorable condition over the years.

Establishments including Federal Polytechnic, Ado Ekiti, ABUAD, Ekiti Knowledge Zone and Ekiti Cargo International Airport are situated along the Ado – Ijan axis of the federal road. (Punch)

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Kogi CP deploys enhanced patrols for Ramadan, Lent security

The Commissioner of Police, Kogi State Police Command, CP Naziru Kankarofi, has deployed enhanced patrols to places of worship and other public spaces.

This is as he called on all residents to support ongoing efforts aimed at maintaining peace, security and public order throughout the state during the Ramadan and Lent period.

This was contained in a statement issued on Wednesday in Lokoja by the public relations officer, ASP Saliu Afusat.

The statement reads, “The Commissioner of Police assures the public that the Command has put in place comprehensive security measures across the State, including enhanced visibility patrols, strategic deployments to places of worship and other public spaces, as well as intelligence-led operations to prevent crime and respond swiftly to any security concerns.”

In Christianity, Lent is a solemn 40-day season marked by fasting, self-denial, and repentance, inspired by the period Jesus Christ spent in the wilderness preparing for His crucifixion.

In Islam, Ramadan is a holy month devoted to fasting, increased prayers, and deep spiritual reflection, observed as one of the five pillars of Islam and a time that emphasises complete submission to God.

He reiterates that the Command remains committed to protecting lives and property and ensuring that all residents go about their lawful activities without fear.

Kankarofi urges residents to remain vigilant and security conscious, particularly during early morning and late evening activities.

He advises members of the public to promptly report suspicious persons or movements to the nearest Police Station or through the Command’s emergency numbers: 0703 832 9084, 0815 219 9999.

He further cautions against reckless driving, unlawful gatherings, and any conduct capable of disturbing public peace and order.

The CP also calls on parents, guardians, religious leaders, traditional rulers, youth groups and community stakeholders to use the period to promote peaceful coexistence, tolerance, and respect for the rule of law.

He emphasised that security is a shared responsibility and encourages sustained cooperation with the Police and other security agencies through timely and credible information sharing.

“The Commissioner reassures the good people of Kogi State that under his leadership, the Command will continue to uphold professionalism, discipline and respect for human rights while strengthening strategies to address emerging security challenges.

He appreciates the continued support of the Government and people of Kogi State and urges all residents to remain law-abiding to ensure a peaceful and secure Ramadan period for everyone.” The PPRO added. (Punch)

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Wike hails Tinubu for signing Electoral Act Amendment Bill promptly

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has hailed President Bola Tinubu for the prompt signing of the Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill 2026 into law.

Wike, in a statement signed by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Mr Lere Olayinka, in Abuja on Wednesday, described the development as “apt.”

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that Tinubu on Wednesday signed the Act into law, which was passed by the National Assembly on Tuesday.

The amendment comes amid intense public debate over the electronic transmission of election results in real time.

The harmonised report of the bill, including the contentious Section 60(3), was passed by both chambers of the National Assembly.

Wike described Tinubu’s assent as a demonstration of his commitment to deepening the democratic process by making elections more credible.

According to him, the development has ended unnecessary protests over the Electoral Act.

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

“I, therefore, congratulate Mr President and the National Assembly members for playing their roles in this dispensation to make democracy stronger.

“Particularly, I commend the President for not keeping Nigerians waiting for more than 24 hours before signing the Electoral Act Amendment Bill into law,” he said. (Punch)

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Gov Mbah participates in Holy Mass ushering Lenten season, urges unity

The Governor of Enugu State, Peter N Mbah on Wednesday morning joined the Christian faithful at the Government House Chapel, Enugu for the Holy Mass marking Ash Wednesday, ushering Christians into the sacred season of Lent. In his message posted on his X page @PNMbah, he wished the faithful spirit-filled Lenten season. He stressed:

“Ash Wednesday calls us to prayer, fasting, humility, and reflection — a reminder that we are from dust and to dust we shall return. It is a time to realign our hearts with love, service, and compassion.

“Significantly, this year’s Lent coincides with the beginning of Ramadan for our Muslim brothers and sisters, a powerful convergence that reminds us that while our paths of worship may differ, our shared values of faith, sacrifice, and devotion to God unite us.

“May this sacred season renew our commitment to unity, peace, and service to one another. I wish all Christians and Muslims a spiritually enriching Lenten and Ramadan season.

“As we begin this Lenten journey, may we find grace in the quiet moments, strength in sincere reflection, and renewal in the gentle spaces where God meets us most tenderly. May this season refine us, soften our hearts, and draw us closer to His purpose for our lives.

“May the ashes remind us not only of our frailty, but of the enduring mercy that renews us daily.

“Wishing all Christian faithful a meaningful and grace-filled Lent.” (PremiumTimes)

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Tinubu signs Electoral Act Amendment Bill 2026 into law

President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday signed the Electoral Act 2026 (Amendment) Bill into law, setting the legal framework for the conduct of the 2027 general elections just days after the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) unveiled the official election timetable.

The brief signing ceremony was held at the State House, Abuja, at about 5:00 p.m., with principal officers of the National Assembly and senior government officials in attendance.

The amendment bill was passed by both chambers of the National Assembly on Tuesday following weeks of legislative consideration and public engagement on key electoral reforms.

The new law is expected to introduce adjustments aimed at strengthening transparency, improving logistics and addressing operational gaps observed in previous election cycles.

The assent comes against the backdrop of heightened national debate over the electronic transmission of election results, which has remained one of the most contentious aspects of Nigeria’s electoral process.

Civil society organisations, opposition parties and pro-democracy groups have in recent weeks intensified advocacy for mandatory real-time electronic transmission of results from polling units directly to INEC’s central database.

Only last week, protesters gathered at the National Assembly complex in Abuja, urging lawmakers to enshrine live result transmission in the amended law.

The demonstrators argued that instantaneous electronic uploads would significantly curb manipulation during collation, enhance transparency and rebuild public trust in election outcomes.

However, the push has faced resistance from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and some electoral stakeholders who caution that Nigeria’s uneven telecommunications coverage could undermine full digital implementation.

They have instead canvassed a phased or hybrid system that would permit manual collation in areas where network infrastructure is unreliable or non-existent, while electronic transmission operates where technically feasible.

Observers say the signing of the amendment signals the administration’s intention to conclude electoral reforms well ahead of the 2027 polls, giving INEC sufficient time to align regulations, deploy technology and conduct voter education.

Political analysts also note that early legal clarity may reduce pre-election disputes and provide a clearer operational roadmap for political parties and candidates.

Further details of the specific provisions contained in the amended Act are expected to be released by the Presidency and the National Assembly in the coming days. (Guardian)