₦airaland Forum

By Queen Madaki

The Federal Government has begun documenting businesses and other assets abandoned by Nigerians returning from South Africa under its voluntary evacuation programme, as authorities prepare to seek compensation for affected citizens amid rising anti-immigration tensions.

The Bureau Journal reports that the move follows the evacuation of hundreds of Nigerians who opted to leave South Africa over fears that ongoing nationwide anti-immigration protests could disrupt businesses or escalate into xenophobic violence.

Nigeria Begins Documentation of Abandoned Assets

Speaking in an interview with Channels Television, Nigeria's Acting High Commissioner to South Africa, Alexander Ajayi, said the government's response extends beyond evacuating citizens to protecting their investments.

According to him, Nigerians returning home have been directed to compile detailed records of businesses, vehicles, shops and other movable and immovable assets left behind in South Africa.

"I have asked them before they left yesterday to document very accurately those things they were leaving behind in terms of businesses, in terms of even cars, movable and immovable properties," Ajayi said.

He explained that the documentation would provide evidence of investments made by affected Nigerians and could form the basis for future compensation claims.

Diplomatic Engagement Underway

Ajayi disclosed that discussions had already begun with South African authorities, including the country's Deputy Minister of Finance, regarding the fate of assets belonging to Nigerian nationals.

Although the Federal Government has not announced the legal framework through which compensation would be pursued, the development suggests Abuja is preparing to raise the matter through diplomatic channels with the South African government.

Evacuation Follows Anti-Immigration Protests

The government's intervention comes as nationwide anti-immigration demonstrations organised by the self-styled "March and March" movement continue across South Africa.

The protests, which began on June 30, have heightened concerns among foreign nationals after organisers called for the deportation of undocumented migrants, raising fears of possible xenophobic attacks.

According to Ajayi, many Nigerians residing legally in South Africa voluntarily joined the evacuation programme because of concerns that the protests could negatively affect their businesses and personal safety.

335 Nigerians Evacuated

The Federal Government has so far evacuated 335 Nigerians under its voluntary repatriation programme.

Ajayi also referenced government estimates suggesting that about 500,000 Nigerians living in South Africa are undocumented, although the figure has not been independently verified.

International Community Monitoring Situation

The demonstrations have also attracted international attention.

The United States Mission to South Africa temporarily reduced operations at its diplomatic facilities in Cape Town, Durban, Johannesburg and Pretoria, citing security concerns linked to the protests.

Meanwhile, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has appealed for peaceful demonstrations and warned against acts of vigilantism.

Compensation Process Yet to Be Defined

It remains unclear whether South Africa will accept responsibility for privately owned assets abandoned by Nigerians during the evacuation.

However, the Federal Government's decision to document the losses signals its intention to pursue diplomatic engagement aimed at protecting the economic interests of affected citizens.

As Nigeria News Today continues to monitor developments, The Bureau Journal understands that discussions between Nigerian and South African authorities are expected to continue as both countries seek a peaceful resolution to the concerns arising from the protests.

The Bureau Journal will provide updates as more information emerges on the evacuation programme and any compensation arrangements.

Source: The Bureau Journal

By Abdullahi Tukur

The Kebbi State Police Command has dismissed reports alleging the emergence of a terrorist group known as "Sai Mallam" in parts of the state, clarifying that investigations found no evidence of such an organisation operating within Kebbi.

Instead, police said the reports stemmed from the activities of a cybercrime syndicate popularly known as "Yan Vocal," whose members allegedly engage in online fraud, identity theft and digital blackmail. The Bureau Journal reports that 13 suspects linked to the group have been arrested.

Police Explain 'Sai Mallam' Misconception

In a statement issued by the Command's Public Relations Officer, SP Bashir Usman, the police said a comprehensive investigation debunked claims that a terrorist group was imposing levies on communities in the Argungu and Zuru Emirates.

According to the Command, the rumours were traced to the activities of the cybercrime network rather than any organised terrorist group.

How the Suspects Allegedly Operated

Police said the syndicate consists mainly of young people between the ages of 19 and 24 who allegedly specialise in hacking social media accounts, creating fake online identities and using threats, deception and blackmail to extort money from victims.

The suspects reportedly targeted politicians, traditional rulers, religious leaders, business owners and other prominent individuals both within Nigeria and abroad.

Investigators said the group allegedly used sophisticated digital tools, including video-editing software and pre-recorded explicit videos, to deceive victims into believing they were participating in live video calls with women.

The manipulated content was then allegedly used to threaten victims and demand money.

13 Suspects Arrested in Intelligence-Led Operation

The Kebbi State Police Command said a coordinated intelligence-led operation led to the arrest of 13 suspects, all from Argungu town.

According to the police, the suspects conspired to obtain nude images of a female victim before demanding ₦1 million under the threat of publishing the images.

Investigators also alleged that members of the syndicate defrauded another victim of ₦3 million after manipulating a video to falsely portray the victim as engaging in a live video conversation with a naked woman.

Police Reassure Residents

The Command urged residents not to panic over reports of the alleged "Sai Mallam" terrorist group, assuring the public that no such organisation has been identified in Kebbi State.

Police also advised members of the public to remain vigilant online, protect their personal information and promptly report suspicious digital activities to security agencies.

As Nigeria News Today continues to monitor developments in cybercrime and public safety, The Bureau Journal understands that investigations into the activities of the suspected syndicate are ongoing.

The Bureau Journal will continue to provide verified updates as the Kebbi State Police Command releases additional information on the case.

Source: https://thebureaujournal.com/kebbi-police-arrest-cybercrime-suspects-sai-mallam/

By Queen Madaki

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the establishment of the National Health Technology and Data Analytics Office (NHTDAO), a new agency designed to coordinate Nigeria's digital health agenda and strengthen the country's healthcare system through technology-driven innovation.

The new office will operate under the Office of the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare. According to an official statement, it is expected to serve as the national platform for implementing digital health initiatives across the country. The Bureau Journal reports that the move forms part of the Federal Government's broader efforts to modernise healthcare delivery through the Renewed Hope Agenda.

New Office to Drive Digital Health Transformation

The statement explained that the National Health Technology and Data Analytics Office will complement, rather than replace, the statutory responsibilities of existing health institutions and agencies.

Its responsibilities include improving collaboration between public and private healthcare providers, developing interoperability standards for health information systems, and implementing the National Digital Health Architecture approved by the National Council on Health in November 2025.

The initiative is expected to strengthen data-driven decision-making, improve healthcare coordination and support the digital transformation of Nigeria's health sector.

Dr Obi Adigwe Named Pioneer National Coordinator

President Tinubu also appointed Dr Obi Adigwe as the pioneer National Coordinator of the newly created office.

Adigwe currently serves as the Director-General of the National Institute for Pharmaceutical Research and Development (NIPRD), where he has led several initiatives centred on artificial intelligence, translational research, pharmaceutical innovation and technology transfer.

Among his notable achievements are coordinating the ¥300 million Nanotechnology Grant programme and leading the AFREXIMBank-backed project that established Africa's first Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (API) Training Facility.

He also spearheaded the roadmap that helped secure an €18 million grant from the European Union to support healthcare sector development.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Adigwe gained international recognition after conducting what was described as the world's first scientific analysis of the Covid Organics herbal preparation.

Steering Committee to Oversee Implementation

The Federal Government has constituted a Steering Committee to provide strategic direction and oversight for the National Health Technology and Data Analytics Office.

The committee is co-chaired by the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, and the Chairman of the Nigerian Economic Summit Group, Mr Olaniyi Yusuf.

Other members include:

1. Dr Iziaq Adekunle Salako, Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare
2. Ms Kachollom Daju, Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare
3. Mr Idris Alubankudi Saliu, Special Adviser to the President on Technology and Digital Economy
4. Dr Muntaqa Umar-Sadiq, National Coordinator, SWAp Coordination Office
5. Dr Abdu Mukhtar, National Coordinator, Presidential Initiative to Unlock the Healthcare Value Chain
6. Dr Muyi Aina, Executive Director, National Primary Health Care Development Agency
7. Dr Kelechi Ohiri, Director-General, National Health Insurance Authority
8. A representative of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA)
9. Six representatives of State Commissioners of Health across the geopolitical zones
10. Pharm Hamza Buhari representing industry and community stakeholders

Why the Initiative Matters

The Presidency said the new office will accelerate Nigeria's transition to a secure, interoperable and data-driven healthcare system capable of improving healthcare delivery and patient outcomes nationwide.

The initiative is expected to enhance policy coordination, strengthen digital infrastructure, improve the management of health records and support innovation across the healthcare sector.

As Nigeria News Today continues to spotlight reforms in public health, The Bureau Journal will monitor the implementation of the new office and its impact on healthcare services across the country.

The Bureau Journal understands that the establishment of the NHTDAO represents another step in the Federal Government's commitment to building a more efficient, technology-enabled healthcare system for Nigerians.

Source: The Bureau Journal

By Queen Madaki

The Nigerian Navy has recovered approximately 52,600 litres of suspected stolen crude oil during an intelligence-led operation targeting crude oil theft in Rivers State.

The operation, carried out under Operation Delta Sentinel, forms part of the Navy's sustained campaign against crude oil theft and illegal refining activities across the Niger Delta. As The Bureau Journal reports, the latest recovery underscores ongoing efforts to curb economic sabotage and safeguard Nigeria's critical oil infrastructure.

Operation Leads to Major Crude Oil Seizure

According to the Nigerian Navy, personnel of the Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) Pathfinder intercepted two wooden boats at Ogoloma in Okrika Local Government Area after acting on credible intelligence obtained during a routine patrol.

The boats were reportedly preparing to offload suspected petroleum products when naval operatives moved in and intercepted them.

Following a search of the vessels, officers discovered approximately 250 sacks containing about 52,600 litres of suspected stolen crude oil.

Materials for Illegal Refining Recovered

Beyond the crude oil seizure, the patrol team also recovered several materials allegedly meant for the construction of illegal refining sites.

The discovery suggests that those behind the operation were planning to expand illicit refining activities before the intervention by security personnel.

Navy Says Operation Frustrated Economic Saboteurs

Director of Naval Information, Commodore Abiodun Folorunsho, said the successful operation disrupted attempts by criminal elements to supply illegal refining camps with crude oil and equipment.

He noted that the operation denied economic saboteurs access to both crude oil and the materials required to sustain their illegal activities.

Folorunsho added that all recovered products and associated materials were handled in accordance with established anti-crude oil theft procedures.

Nigerian Navy Reaffirms Commitment

The Nigerian Navy reiterated its commitment to sustaining intelligence-driven operations aimed at dismantling crude oil theft syndicates, disrupting illegal refining activities, and protecting Nigeria's oil and gas infrastructure.

The Bureau Journal understands that the Navy has continued to intensify operations across the Niger Delta as part of broader efforts to curb oil theft, improve maritime security, and protect the nation's economy.

As developments continue to unfold, The Bureau Journal will provide verified updates on anti-crude oil theft operations and other major security stories shaping Nigeria News Today.

Source: https://thebureaujournal.com/nigerian-navy-recovers-stolen-crude-rivers/

By Abdullahi Tukur

The Kebbi State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has suspended its State Chairman, Alhaji Abubakar Muhammad Kana-Zuru, alongside the APC Chairman of Zuru Local Government Area, Hon. Aliyu Abubakar Abiola.

The Bureau Journal gathered that the decision followed complaints submitted by stakeholders from the Zuru Emirate concerning the conduct of the two party officials.

Stakeholders Raise Concerns Over Party Activities

In a statement signed by the State Party Secretary, Alhaji Sa’idu Muhammad Kimba, and made available to journalists in Birnin Kebbi, the party said the suspension was based on allegations relating to the officials’ performance and engagement within the party structure.

According to the statement, stakeholders accused the suspended officials of demonstrating a lukewarm attitude toward party affairs, inadequate consultation with critical stakeholders, poor mobilization efforts, and failure to comply with established party principles and procedures.

The party explained that the allegations were subjected to internal review and investigation before disciplinary measures were taken.

APC Orders Immediate Suspension

Following the outcome of the review process, the Kebbi APC leadership resolved to suspend both officials pending further developments.

The party maintained that the action was necessary to protect the interests of the APC and strengthen party cohesion across the state.

Kebbi Commissioner Also Suspended

In a related development, the Kebbi State Commissioner for Livestock Development and Fisheries, Alhaji Kabir Usman Alaramma Zuru, has also been suspended from office.

A statement issued by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Alhaji Yakubu Bala-Tafida, confirmed the suspension and stated that it takes immediate effect.

The statement noted that the commissioner would remain suspended until further notice.

Government Directs Handover of Official Duties

As part of the directive, the suspended commissioner has been instructed to hand over all government property and official responsibilities in his possession to the Permanent Secretary of the ministry.

The Bureau Journal reports that authorities have not yet disclosed the specific reasons behind the suspension of the commissioner.

The developments have generated fresh political discussions within Kebbi State as stakeholders await further actions from both the APC leadership and the state government.

Source: https://thebureaujournal.com/kebbi-apc-suspends-state-chairman-zuru-lg-chairman/

By Aliyu Usman, Birnin Kebbi

The Arewa Youth Progressive Alliance (AYPA) has accused the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and sections of the media of promoting what it described as a one-sided narrative in the ongoing trial of former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, SAN.

The group alleged that critical facts which emerged during court proceedings were being ignored while selective information was amplified to shape public perception against the former minister.

In a statement issued on Wednesday and signed by its spokesperson, Adam Umar Adam, AYPA expressed concern over what it termed an orchestrated attempt to influence public opinion and portray Malami as guilty before the conclusion of the trial.

AYPA Raises Concerns Over Court Reporting

According to the group, some media organisations and social media platforms focused heavily on claims of multi-million naira transactions allegedly linked to Alkausar Farms following the testimony of the fifth prosecution witness, a compliance officer with Jaiz Bank.

AYPA, however, argued that these reports failed to reflect crucial revelations made during cross-examination.

"Curiously, the same reports deliberately ignored the most important revelations that emerged during cross-examination," the group stated.

The alliance said the witness admitted under cross-examination that she was not the account officer responsible for the account in question.

It also noted that the witness confirmed before the court that none of the defendants, including Abubakar Malami, SAN, his wife, or his son, was a signatory to the Alkausar Farms account tendered as evidence.

No Link to Federal Ministry of Justice, AYPA Claims

AYPA further stated that the witness testified that none of the inflows or outflows in the account originated from the Federal Ministry of Justice.

According to the group, the witness also confirmed that no payments were made from the Ministry to the account, nor from the account to the Ministry.

"These are not minor details. They are central facts that go to the heart of the public narrative being promoted around this case," AYPA said.

The group maintained that despite extensive publicity surrounding the testimony, no evidence had been presented showing that the funds belonged to Malami, that he controlled the account, or that the transactions represented proceeds of unlawful activity.

Questions Over Alkausar Farms Ownership

AYPA also pointed to publicly available records indicating that Alkausar Farms was established in 2008, approximately seven years before Malami became Attorney-General of the Federation.

The group argued that repeatedly linking transactions in the account to Malami without establishing ownership, signatory authority, beneficial interest or any criminal nexus was misleading.

"It is therefore misleading for sections of the media to repeatedly create the impression that the existence of transactions in an account automatically translates into wrongdoing by Malami," the statement added.

Call for Balanced Reporting

The alliance further noted that after the testimony of five prosecution witnesses, the court was yet to hear evidence linking transactions in the Alkausar Farms account to the Federal Ministry of Justice.

According to AYPA, responsible journalism requires that reports of court proceedings reflect both examination-in-chief and cross-examination, particularly where admissions made under cross-examination substantially alter public understanding of the evidence.

"We are not asking for special treatment for Malami or any other defendant. We are demanding fairness, balance and respect for the principle that every citizen remains innocent until proven guilty by a competent court of law," the group said.

AYPA warned that selective reporting of judicial proceedings could undermine public confidence in both the media and the justice system.

The group therefore urged the EFCC to exercise restraint and professionalism in its public communications concerning ongoing trials while calling on media organisations to uphold ethical standards and balanced reporting.

According to AYPA, the courtroom remains the only place where guilt or innocence can be determined, stressing that no Nigerian should be convicted by headlines, social media narratives or selective storytelling before a court reaches its verdict.

The Bureau Journal will continue to monitor developments in the case and provide updates as proceedings continue.

Source: https://thebureaujournal.com/malami-trial-arewa-group-accuses-efcc/

By Abdullahi Tukur

No fewer than eight persons have been killed following a violent clash between farmers and herders in Gulma Town, Argungu Local Government Area of Kebbi State.

The Bureau Journal gathered that the tragic incident occurred on Tuesday evening and has since triggered heightened security measures in the affected community.

Confirming the incident, the Kebbi State Police Command, through its Public Relations Officer, SP Bashir Usman, said the crisis began when a herder identified as Yaron Buba Dogo allegedly allowed his cattle to stray into the farmland of one Alhaji Aminu Ala, resulting in the destruction of crops.

According to the police spokesperson, a confrontation ensued between the two men during which the farmer was allegedly stabbed in the neck and died from the injuries sustained.

Mob Attack Escalates Violence

SP Bashir Usman explained that following the killing of the farmer, angry youths and residents mobilised and attacked the herder, killing him before setting his body ablaze.

The situation quickly degenerated into widespread violence as the mob allegedly launched further attacks on members of the affected community.

Despite efforts by security operatives to contain the crisis, four additional persons lost their lives and their bodies were burnt beyond recognition during the violence.

The police further disclosed that two more corpses were later recovered from a farmland located outside Gulma Town, bringing the total death toll to eight.

Five Persons Rescued

The Police Command stated that five persons, including a woman, were successfully rescued during the operation and evacuated to safety at the Argungu Police Station.

The rescued victims are currently under protective custody as authorities continue efforts to restore calm in the area.

Curfew Imposed as Security Tightens

To prevent further escalation of the crisis, a joint security operation comprising police and other security agencies has been deployed to Gulma and surrounding communities.

The Kebbi State Government has also imposed a curfew in the affected area to maintain law and order.

According to the police, normalcy is gradually returning as security patrols and surveillance operations continue across the community.

Investigation Ongoing

The Police Command said investigations are ongoing to identify and apprehend individuals responsible for the killings and destruction recorded during the clash.

The Bureau Journal reports that authorities have urged residents to remain peaceful and cooperate with security agencies as efforts continue to restore lasting peace in Gulma Town and other parts of Argungu Local Government Area.

Source: https://thebureaujournal.com/eight-killed-farmers-herders-clash-kebbi-five-rescued/

By Enemona Samuel Endurance

The Bureau Journal reports that the Kogi State Government has confirmed a major security breakthrough following the interception of a large cache of arms and ammunition allegedly intended for criminal elements planning retaliatory attacks within the state.

Coordinated Security Operation

The operation was carried out through a joint effort involving local security operatives under the Kogi State security architecture, the Hybrid Forces under the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), and the 12 Brigade of the Nigerian Army.

Security authorities said the breakthrough followed credible intelligence on the movement of weapons concealed in a Golf 2 vehicle used to supply criminal networks operating within and outside the state.

Arrests and Intelligence Tracking

Acting on intelligence, security operatives tracked the suspects across state lines in collaboration with security agencies in Sokoto State, placing them under surveillance for over two weeks before the arrest.

Three suspects were subsequently arrested in Sokoto State, with preliminary investigations already yielding actionable intelligence for further operations.

Recovered Weapons and Evidence

The operation led to the recovery of two AK-47 rifles, several magazines, sixty-seven rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, two pistols, and military uniforms suspected to be intended for criminal operations.

The Golf 2 vehicle used in transporting the weapons was also impounded in Kabba, Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State.

Link to Criminal Network Activities

Authorities linked the intercepted weapons to efforts by criminal elements attempting to rearm after recent operational setbacks, including the neutralisation of a bandit leader during a failed kidnapping attempt in Iluke Bunu.

Security officials said intelligence further indicated that criminal groups operating in forested areas were facing shortages of arms following sustained operations against them.

Government Response and Security Assurance

The Kogi State Government said it had intensified intelligence gathering, surveillance, and inter-agency coordination to prevent retaliatory attacks and disrupt criminal regrouping efforts.

Officials stated that the operation demonstrated that security agencies remain ahead of criminal networks attempting to destabilise the state.

The government commended all participating agencies including the DSS, Nigerian Army, Hybrid Forces, and local security structures for their coordination and professionalism.

National Collaboration and Leadership Commendation

The state government also appreciated the Sokoto State Government and its security agencies for their support during the operation.

The National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu were also commended for strengthening national security coordination and support for sub-national security efforts.

The government warned criminal elements that Kogi State will not serve as a safe haven for banditry, kidnapping, or terrorism.

Residents were assured that there is no cause for alarm as security agencies continue intensified operations across the state.

The Bureau Journal reports that the administration reaffirmed its commitment to intelligence-led policing, community engagement, and sustained inter-agency collaboration.

Source: https://thebureaujournal.com/kogi-intercepts-arms-cache-security-operation/

President of the Gambia, Adama Barrow, has commended Nigeria as a Big Brother and for its longstanding support to his country through the Nigerian Technical Aid Corps (NTAC) Scheme, describing the initiative as a major contributor to human capital development and the advancement of higher education, The Bureau Journal reports.

Barrow gave the commendation during the second combined convocation ceremony of the University of Applied Science, Engineering and Technology (USET) in Banjul, where 951 students graduated.

The Gambian leader expressed appreciation to the Government and people of Nigeria for deploying skilled professionals who have strengthened critical sectors of the country's economy, particularly education.

Nigeria's Technical Assistance Boosts Higher Education

The convocation ceremony, themed "Innovation for Impact: Science, Skills and Sustainable Development," showcased the growing impact of Nigerian academics serving under the NTAC Scheme in various Gambian tertiary institutions.

President Barrow said Nigeria's technical assistance programme had made a remarkable contribution to the growth of higher education in The Gambia and reaffirmed his country's commitment to sustaining the bilateral partnership.

"Nigeria has continued to play a significant role in our national development through the deployment of highly skilled professionals whose expertise has strengthened our institutions and enhanced human capital development," Barrow stated.

Tinubu Reaffirms Commitment to Development Cooperation

Representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the event, the Director-General of the Nigerian Technical Aid Corps, Yusuf Buba Yakub, reaffirmed Nigeria's commitment to deepening development cooperation with The Gambia through technical assistance, knowledge transfer and capacity building.

"President Tinubu remains committed to deepening Nigeria's development cooperation with The Gambia through strategic technical assistance, knowledge transfer and human capital development," Yakub said.

He added that Nigeria would continue to deploy qualified professionals to support key sectors and strengthen ties between both countries.

Nigerian Academics Recognised for Outstanding Contributions

A major highlight of the ceremony was the recognition of several Nigerian NTAC volunteers currently occupying strategic leadership positions in Gambian tertiary institutions.

Among them is the Vice-Chancellor of USET, Professor Nazmat Surajudeen-Bakinde, alongside other senior academics contributing to the transformation of higher education in the country.

Professor Surajudeen-Bakinde commended Nigeria and the NTAC for their sustained support, noting that Nigerian professionals have played a vital role in improving academic standards and institutional development across The Gambia.

951 Students Graduate as NTAC Receives Special Honour

The convocation ceremony saw 951 students awarded degrees, diplomas and certificates across various disciplines, while outstanding graduates received awards for academic excellence.

In recognition of NTAC's contributions to education and capacity building, President Barrow presented a special award to the agency's Director-General, Yusuf Buba Yakub.

The honour underscored the enduring partnership between Nigeria and The Gambia and the impact of technical cooperation in promoting sustainable development across Africa.

Source: https://thebureaujournal.com/gambia-president-barrow-commends-nigeria-big-brother/

By Queen Madaki

There is growing anticipation within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) as party members across Nigeria await the release of the final list of senatorial candidates expected from the party's national leadership in the coming weeks.

The development follows the recently concluded APC senatorial primaries held across various states, where preliminary results and lists of successful aspirants emerged at the state level. However, political observers and party insiders say the process may not be entirely concluded until the national leadership finalizes and publishes the official list.

Consultations Continue Within APC

According to sources familiar with ongoing consultations within the party, discussions are continuing at different levels regarding the composition of the final list, with competing interests seeking to ensure that candidates considered politically strategic receive the party's backing.

Some of the sources, who requested anonymity because they were not authorized to speak publicly on the matter, said there have been intense political engagements involving influential stakeholders within the party following reports that a number of incumbent senators did not emerge victorious during the state-level primaries.

The sources claimed that efforts are being made by various political interests to secure favourable outcomes for preferred candidates ahead of the final ratification process. However, The Bureau Journal could not independently verify the extent of such efforts as of the time of filing this report.

Political Interests and Expectations

Political analysts note that internal consultations and negotiations are not unusual in major political parties, especially during election cycles where strategic considerations often shape final decisions regarding candidates and party direction.

There are also indications that state governors and other key stakeholders are actively involved in discussions aimed at protecting their political interests and strengthening their influence ahead of the next legislative session.

Observers believe that the final list, once released, could significantly shape the political landscape within the APC and determine the balance of interests among various blocs within the party.

Party Members Await Official Position

The Bureau Journal gathered that the uncertainty surrounding the final list has generated apprehension in some quarters, particularly among aspirants whose victories were announced at the state level and supporters who are eager for clarity from the party leadership.

Party members in several states are said to be closely monitoring developments, with many expressing hope that the final decisions will reflect the outcome of the primaries and strengthen internal cohesion ahead of the general elections.

While expectations continue to build, APC officials at the national level are yet to issue a comprehensive statement regarding the final senatorial list or the timeline for its official release.

As the party moves toward concluding the nomination process, attention remains fixed on the decisions that will emerge from the APC headquarters in the coming weeks.

Source: https://thebureaujournal.com/tension-mounts-apc-final-senatorial-candidates-list/

By Enemona Samuel Endurance

Lawmakers Move for New Anti-LGBT Legislation

Lawmakers from more than a dozen African countries have pledged to introduce new bills restricting LGBT rights following a recent conference held in Ghana.

The commitment followed the African Inter-Parliamentary Conference on Family Values and Sovereignty, which brought together self-described pro-family activists from across Africa and Europe in Accra from June 3 to June 6, The Bureau Journal reports.

Ghana Conference and Policy Direction

The conference took place days after Ghana’s parliament passed one of the continent’s strictest anti-LGBT measures, a bill criminalising LGBT promotion.

Participants at the gathering said the event reflected a broader shift toward more restrictive laws targeting LGBT communities across parts of Africa, with some attributing the momentum to conservative political influence from the United States and Europe.

Political Context and International Influence

Some attendees claimed the policy environment has shifted further since Donald Trump returned to the White House, noting changes in international advocacy priorities on LGBT rights.

Speakers at the conference urged lawmakers to translate discussions into legislative action, budget allocations, and oversight mechanisms upon returning to their respective countries.

“When you return to your respective capitals, let the resolutions we adopt here not gather dust in the archives of our secretariats. Let them be translated into active bills, robust budgetary allocations, and rigorous oversight,” said Ghana Parliament Speaker Alban Bagbin.

He added: “Go home and tell your people that their representatives have resolved to protect the sanctuaries of their homes, the heritage of their ancestors, and the sovereignty of their nations.”

Regional Legal Trends

More than half of Africa’s 54 countries already criminalise same-sex sexual acts, according to regional legal data.

Several countries, including Uganda and Senegal, have recently expanded restrictions by adopting laws that criminalise LGBT promotion, following similar legislative moves in Ghana.

Source: https://thebureaujournal.com/african-lawmakers-lgbt-bills-ghana-conference/

The first batch of Nigerians living in South Africa will arrive in Nigeria on Thursday.