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A Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma to stop presenting himself as the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for the Imo West Senatorial District election scheduled for January 16, 2027.

Justice Obiora Egwuatu issued the order on Thursday after ruling that former Imo State Governor Rochas Okorocha won the APC senatorial primary conducted on May 18, 2026, according to the court report.

The judge ordered the APC to forward Okorocha's name to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as its candidate for the senatorial election.

The ruling follows a legal battle in which Okorocha challenged INEC's recognition of Uzodimma as the APC candidate for Imo West. The dispute centred on conflicting accounts of the outcome of the party's primary.

Okorocha Challenged Uzodimma's Nomination

Okorocha had approached the Federal High Court seeking an order setting aside INEC's recognition of Uzodimma as the party's candidate and directing the commission to publish his own name.

The suit also sought to restrain Uzodimma from presenting himself as the APC's nominated candidate for the election.

The case attracted attention because Uzodimma remains governor of Imo State while seeking the senatorial ticket. The dispute was among the nomination controversies ahead of the 2027 elections, which have also featured in The Bureau Journal's coverage of APC senatorial candidates across the states.

INEC Had Disputed Document on Primary Results

Before Thursday's judgment, INEC had disputed a document circulating publicly that purported to show Okorocha as the winner of the APC primary. The commission maintained that the result submitted through the party's official process identified Uzodimma as the winner.

The competing claims formed part of the legal dispute over which candidate should be recognised for Imo West.

The ruling comes amid wider legal scrutiny of party primaries and candidate nominations ahead of 2027. The Bureau Journal has also examined the legal questions surrounding party membership records and nominations in its report on the Supreme Court's electoral ruling and its implications for candidates.

Ruling Affects APC's Imo West Ticket

The order changes the position in the dispute over the APC's Imo West ticket, directing the party to submit Okorocha's name to INEC and restraining Uzodimma from continuing to present himself as the party's candidate.

The development adds to the legal contests shaping party nominations ahead of the next general election. The Bureau Journal's guide to Nigeria's 2027 elections and electoral preparations provides further background on the approaching polls.

Other candidate-related disputes have also reached the courts. In a separate case, The Bureau Journal reported on the legal challenge involving Isa Ali Pantami's eligibility and party nomination in Gombe.

The court's decision is also relevant to the evolving list of candidates for the National Assembly elections. INEC's publication of candidates is a central part of the process, as reflected in the commission's ongoing electoral preparations and voter information activities. Voters can consult The Bureau Journal's report on INEC's online publication of the preliminary voter register for the 2027 elections.

Further details of the judgment, including the court's full reasoning and any subsequent steps by the APC, Uzodimma or INEC, are awaited.

Stanbic IBTC Holdings Plc reported a 35.05% year-on-year increase in group profit before tax to N531.88 billion for the nine months ended September 30, 2026, from N393.84 billion a year earlier.

The group's unaudited financial statements, filed with the Nigerian Exchange, show that profit after tax rose to N370.36 billion from N278.48 billion. Earnings per share increased to N23.03 from N17.31.

Trading revenue and fee income supported the increase, while lower impairment charges reduced the burden of credit losses. Net interest income, however, declined as interest income fell and interest expenses rose.

Trading revenue drives Stanbic IBTC's nine-month earnings

Total income increased by 24.82% to N817.77 billion from N655.16 billion in the corresponding period of 2025. Trading revenue rose to N210.13 billion from N23.86 billion, while net fee and commission revenue increased by 26.48% to N218.30 billion from N172.59 billion.

Non-interest revenue reached N437.99 billion, more than double the N208.70 billion recorded a year earlier. It accounted for approximately 53.56% of total income, compared with 31.85% in the first nine months of 2025.

Interest-related earnings moved in the opposite direction. Interest income declined by 5.35% to N545.35 billion from N576.18 billion, while interest expense increased by 27.63% to N165.57 billion from N129.72 billion.

Net interest income consequently fell by 14.93% to N379.79 billion from N446.47 billion. The increase in trading and fee income helped offset that decline.

Net impairment charges on financial assets fell to N507 million from N11.64 billion in the corresponding period of 2025, a reduction of 95.64%. In the third quarter, the group recorded an impairment write-back of N6.85 billion, compared with a charge of N533 million a year earlier.

Operating expenses rose by 14.30% to N285.39 billion from N249.69 billion. Total income nevertheless grew faster than expenses, while the lower impairment burden also supported the increase in profit before tax.

Corporate and Investment Banking leads segment earnings

Corporate and Investment Banking remained Stanbic IBTC's largest income contributor, generating N516.71 billion, up from N408.54 billion. The segment accounted for 63.18% of consolidated income, while its profit before tax increased to N392.07 billion from N296.74 billion.

Insurance and Asset Management recorded total income of N153.72 billion, compared with N112.77 billion a year earlier. Its profit before tax rose to N98.91 billion from N68.83 billion.

Business and Commercial Banking income increased to N109.91 billion from N93.05 billion, while profit before tax rose to N30.53 billion from N17.07 billion.

Personal and Private Banking income grew to N56.00 billion from N47.12 billion. Its profit before tax, however, declined to N10.37 billion from N11.20 billion.

Assets rise to N9.60 trillion as customer lending expands

Stanbic IBTC's total assets increased to N9.60 trillion at September 30, 2026, from N8.62 trillion at the end of December 2025.

Trading assets rose by 51.85% to N1.31 trillion, financial investments increased to N1.66 trillion, and cash and bank balances climbed by 14.84% to N1.95 trillion. Other assets increased to N1.21 trillion from N403.87 billion.

Total loans and advances fell by 20.90% to N3.04 trillion from N3.84 trillion. The decline reflected a sharp reduction in lending to banks, which dropped to N428.08 billion from N1.47 trillion.

Loans and advances to customers moved in the opposite direction, rising by 9.87% to N2.61 trillion from N2.38 trillion.

Deposits and current accounts increased by 12.30% to N5.37 trillion. Customer deposits rose to N4.57 trillion from N4.37 trillion, while deposits from banks increased to N802.70 billion from N409.67 billion.

Total equity grew by 27.26% to N1.43 trillion from N1.12 trillion. Retained earnings increased to N854.79 billion from N586.32 billion.

Stanbic IBTC fixes N159.86 reference price for interim scrip dividend

Separately, Stanbic IBTC announced on October 23, 2026, that it had fixed the reference price for its 2026 interim scrip dividend programme at N159.86 per ordinary share.

The programme follows the previously declared interim dividend of N4.50 per share. Eligible shareholders can choose to receive the dividend in cash or elect to receive new ordinary shares, subject to the programme's terms and applicable regulatory approvals.

The reference price was calculated using the volume-weighted average price of Stanbic IBTC shares on the Nigerian Exchange over the five business days beginning when the shares first traded ex-dividend.

Shareholders opting for shares must submit their completed election forms to First Registrars and Investor Services Limited by the close of business on November 6, 2026. Shareholders choosing cash do not need to submit an election form. Cash payments are scheduled for November 13, 2026, where a valid e-dividend mandate is in place.

The reference price announcement is available in the company's scrip dividend notice filed with the NGX.

Stanbic IBTC shares gain 60% in 2026

Stanbic IBTC shares closed at N160.00 on Friday, October 23, 2026, according to historical market data. The price compares with N100.00 at the beginning of the year, representing an increase of 60% based on those prices.

The share-price performance and the company's earnings results are separate measures. The reported increase in profit does not, on its own, establish what caused the share price to rise.

The group's unaudited nine-month financial statements filed with the NGX contain the full income statement, balance sheet and segment disclosures.

The National Economic Council (NEC) has endorsed a 90-day economic action plan focused on food affordability, tax harmonisation and faster delivery of projects intended to improve living conditions and business activity.

The council also approved a national project-tracking dashboard and agreed to establish a joint federal-state financing framework to expand compressed natural gas (CNG) and electric transport.

Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications in the Office of the Vice President, announced the decisions in a statement on Thursday, October 22, 2026.

The approvals followed a presentation by Finance Minister and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Taiwo Oyedele, at NEC’s 161st meeting, chaired virtually by Vice President Kashim Shettima.

Five priorities for the 90-day plan

The Ministry of Finance’s proposal identifies five areas for coordinated action:

Improving food affordability.
Harmonising taxes.
Completing high-impact projects.
Removing obstacles to investment.
Providing regulated household support.

The statement did not specify the programme’s budget, household eligibility rules or detailed implementation timetable within the 90-day period.

Oyedele said federal and state governments needed to coordinate implementation so that improvements in macroeconomic indicators produced measurable benefits for households and businesses.

He identified single-digit headline inflation and interest rates by 2027 as policy objectives. These are targets rather than announced changes to prevailing rates.

What tax harmonisation could mean for businesses

Tax harmonisation is one of the plan’s most relevant components for businesses operating across different jurisdictions. Its practical impact will depend on which charges are covered and how federal, state and local collection arrangements are coordinated.

The announcement did not identify specific levies for removal or introduce new filing deadlines. Businesses should therefore distinguish the council’s policy endorsement from changes formally issued by the relevant tax authorities.

The issue connects with the ongoing review of Nigeria’s tax framework and its implications for businesses, particularly questions about implementation and overlapping obligations.

Companies managing compliance changes can also consult The Business Bureau’s explanation of Nigeria’s e-invoicing requirements.

Shettima says reforms must improve daily life

Shettima urged governors and public institutions to focus on affordable transport, better healthcare, jobs and greater financial security.

“The first dividend of prosperity should be the confidence to plan a life. Our task is to make such confidence less dependent on fortune,” he said.

He argued that the effectiveness of economic policies should be judged by what citizens experience, with stronger cooperation between federal and state governments supporting the delivery of essential services.

Food affordability remains particularly important to household purchasing power. However, a decline in the inflation rate measures slower price increases; it does not necessarily mean that food and other goods have become cheaper.

Joint financing planned for CNG and electric vehicles

NEC agreed to develop a joint financing framework to accelerate the deployment of CNG and electric vehicles after a presentation by Ismaeel Ahmed, chairman of the Presidential Initiative on Compressed Natural Gas and Electric Vehicles.

A committee will coordinate financing arrangements, engage stakeholders and develop measures intended to make the programme affordable and accessible.

The council also directed engagement with transport unions and operators to ensure that operating-cost savings translate into lower passenger fares.

Shettima said the National CNG Bus Initiative should be assessed by its effect on commuting costs and access to transport, rather than simply the number of vehicles deployed.

The focus on passenger fares follows a similar policy argument in the IMF’s recommendations on targeted transport support: assistance should be assessed by how effectively it reaches vulnerable households.

Dashboard to track public projects

The approved national dashboard is intended to track projects across the federation and strengthen transparency over the use of proceeds from fuel subsidy removal.

Its usefulness will depend on the information published, how frequently records are updated and whether users can compare expenditure with construction progress and completed services.

For businesses, completion of infrastructure projects and removal of investment obstacles could affect operating costs and access to markets. The commercial implications will become clearer when authorities identify the projects and administrative measures covered.

As The Business Bureau’s guide to interpreting Nigerian business news explains, policy approval, funding release and implementation are separate stages.

The next indicators to watch are the publication of delivery milestones, financing commitments, household-support rules and evidence that transport savings are reaching commuters.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) 2027 Presidential Campaign Council has appointed new leaders for its youth and women mobilisation directorates and created a Directorate of Stage Organisation and Management ahead of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election campaign.

In a statement signed by its Secretary, Governor Hope Uzodimma, the council said the changes followed its inauguration and were intended to strengthen coordination and improve operational efficiency.

Dr Farouk Adamu Aliyu will head the new Directorate of Stage Organisation and Management, with Rt. Hon. Adejare Bello serving as Co-Director.

Olawande heads youth mobilisation

Under the revised arrangement, Mr Ayo Olawande will serve as Director of Youth Mobilisation, while Dr Dayo Israel has been appointed Deputy Director.

The council said the appointments formed part of efforts to build an inclusive campaign structure capable of mobilising Nigerians, particularly young people and women, behind Tinubu’s re-election bid.

The emphasis on youth engagement aligns with the wider grassroots mobilisation efforts for Tinubu ahead of the 2027 election.

Betta Edu named deputy director for women

Dr Mary Aille Idele will lead the Directorate of Women Mobilisation, with Dr Betta Edu as Deputy Director and Hon. Imaan Suleman as Secretary.

Council directs appointees to coordinate campaign activities

The council urged the appointees to bring their experience and organisational capabilities to their assignments and work with other directorates to implement its campaign and mobilisation strategies.

The appointments come as APC figures and support groups expand their preparations across the country. In Kogi East, Senator Isah Jibrin has mobilised support for Tinubu and the APC, while other political stakeholders have outlined their positions on the coming contest.

Among them is FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, who has distinguished his support for Tinubu from support for other APC candidates.

The campaign council said cooperation among its directorates and relevant political structures would be essential to carrying out its objectives ahead of the presidential election.

The Federal High Court in Abuja has dismissed a suit by Intels Nigeria Limited seeking to stop the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) from investigating transactions connected to an alleged $74 million debt owed to the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA).

Justice Emeka Nwite delivered the judgment on October 2, 2026, according to court documents reviewed by journalists.

The court held that a contractual relationship and an arbitration clause do not automatically prevent a criminal investigation where allegations extend beyond an unpaid debt to possible diversion or conversion of funds.

However, the judge stressed that the EFCC could not use its investigative powers to determine the parties’ contractual rights or finally settle their disputed accounts.

Intels Challenged Investigation of Agency Agreement

Intels brought the amended suit, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/164/2022, against the EFCC, its chairman, the NPA and the Attorney-General of the Federation.

The logistics company sought, among other reliefs, an order preventing the commission and its operatives from further demanding $74 million allegedly due under its Managing Agency Agreement with the NPA.

The agreement was first entered into in 1998 and subsequently renewed in 2003, 2011 and 2018.

Intels argued that invitations, arrests and questioning of its officials concerned a civil contractual dispute and amounted to harassment and misuse of the commission’s powers.

It alleged that EFCC operatives attempted to interpret the agreements during questioning in April 2021, rejected an ongoing account reconciliation process and asserted that their calculations showed a $74 million shortfall.

EFCC Cited Alleged Non-Remittance and Payment Diversion

The EFCC maintained that the NPA’s petition raised issues requiring criminal investigation.

According to the commission’s account before the court, the NPA alleged non-remittance of $148,152,572.42 as of 2017.

The petition also alleged that some third-party payers were directed to send funds to an account belonging to Intels West Africa Limited in the United Kingdom, rather than the account contemplated by the contractual arrangements.

The commission referred to additional allegations involving transactions and funds of up to $1,247,947,083.

Those figures concern allegations presented during the proceedings. They are not findings that Intels owes each amount, and they should not be added together as a single established liability.

Court Distinguishes Contract Disputes From Criminal Allegations

Justice Nwite held that the existence of a contract does not, by itself, determine whether conduct arising under it is exclusively civil.

He found that the complaint provided a factual basis for investigating allegations of diversion and conversion that were sufficiently distinct from the mere existence of a debt.

The judge therefore rejected the argument that the EFCC’s entire involvement amounted to civil debt recovery.

He also held that an arbitration clause governs contractual dispute resolution but does not give transactions immunity from lawful criminal investigation.

EFCC Cannot Finally Determine Disputed Accounts

The court nevertheless emphasised the limits of the commission’s authority.

Its decision did not empower the EFCC to adjudicate the contractual accounts between Intels and the NPA or remove either party’s access to arbitration and other available remedies.

The distinction matters commercially: a company can dispute an account through contractual procedures while particular transactions remain subject to investigation within an agency’s statutory powers.

For businesses entering major transactions, the wider assessment includes financing, contractual obligations and execution risks, as discussed in The Business Bureau’s guide to evaluating a supply contract before committing resources.

NPA Challenged Its Inclusion in the Suit

In a preliminary objection filed in July 2025, the NPA argued that the suit principally challenged the EFCC’s conduct and powers.

It maintained that Intels had disclosed no reasonable cause of action against the authority.

Ultimately, Justice Nwite found that Intels had not established grounds for the broad declarations and injunctions requested and dismissed the suit.

The judgment permits a lawful investigation to proceed. It does not amount to a criminal conviction or a final determination that the alleged $74 million debt is payable.

Longstanding Disagreement Over Revenue Remittances

Intels provides integrated logistics services to Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.

Its relationship with the NPA has involved earlier disputes over boat pilotage revenue. In 2017, the Federal Government directed the cancellation of a monitoring and supervision contract amid allegations of non-remittance, which Intels disputed.

The company maintained at the time that the NPA was indebted to it.

Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar separately stated in 2023 that he had sold his interest in Intels in 2020 for $100 million and was no longer a shareholder.

Nigeria’s headline inflation rate fell to 14.63% in September 2026 from 15.39% in August, extending the country’s disinflation trend to four consecutive months, according to figures attributed to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).

The September rate was 6.35 percentage points below the 20.98% recorded in September 2025. Month-on-month headline inflation also slowed to 0.06% from 0.71% in August, indicating that average consumer prices rose more slowly during the month.

The latest figures add to the economic developments tracked in The Business Bureau’s coverage of Nigeria’s economy and business news. However, the moderation in headline inflation masked differing price movements across the country. Food inflation declined month-on-month, while urban inflation and core inflation accelerated. Rural inflation recorded a monthly decline.

Urban and rural inflation show contrasting trends

Urban inflation stood at 15.64% year-on-year in September 2026, compared with 28.48% in September 2025. Its twelve-month average rate was 15.90%, down 12.58 percentage points from the corresponding 28.48% figure cited for the previous year.

On a month-on-month basis, urban inflation increased to 0.53% in September from 0.28% in August, suggesting that the pace of price increases in urban areas accelerated during the month.

Rural inflation stood at 12.46% year-on-year, compared with 25.67% in September 2025. Its twelve-month average was 15.32%, representing a decline of 10.35 percentage points from 25.67%.

Unlike the urban reading, rural inflation fell month-on-month to -0.89% in September from 1.79% in August. The 2.68-percentage-point movement indicates a shift from rising average prices in August to a decline in the rural index in September.

These differences matter when interpreting economic data. The Business Bureau’s guide to reading Nigerian business news provides useful context for distinguishing headline figures from the underlying trends they represent.

Food inflation declines as core inflation rises

Food inflation was 19.59% year-on-year in September 2026, compared with 20.16% in September 2025. On a month-on-month basis, the food inflation rate fell to -1.55% from 1.02% in August.

The reported monthly movement was associated with price changes in food items including grains, rice, eggs, onions, palm oil, vegetables, potatoes, plantain and tomatoes. The twelve-month average food inflation rate stood at 15.72%, down 12.66 percentage points from 28.37% in September 2025.

Food-price changes are particularly important for businesses whose sales depend on household purchasing power. The wider economic implications also relate to fiscal policy, transport subsidies and the cost pressures facing Nigerian households.

Core inflation, which excludes certain volatile items, moved in the opposite direction on a monthly basis. Its year-on-year rate stood at 12.95% in September, compared with 22.11% a year earlier.

Month-on-month core inflation rose to 1.11% from -0.06% in August, indicating a return to increases in the prices covered by the core measure. The twelve-month average core inflation rate was 16.54%, down from 25.68% in September 2025.

The figures point to an important distinction: lower headline inflation does not mean that all prices are falling. The monthly food inflation reading indicates a decline in the relevant price index, while the rise in monthly core inflation suggests continued pressure in other parts of the consumer basket.

Naira strengthens ahead of September inflation release

Nairametrics reported that the naira strengthened to ₦1,333 per dollar at the Nigerian Foreign Exchange Market (NFEM) on October 14, 2026, ahead of the release of the September inflation figures.

The exchange-rate movement provided additional context as market participants awaited the latest inflation data. However, the timing of the naira’s appreciation and the release of the inflation figures does not, by itself, establish a direct causal relationship between the two developments.

Businesses also monitor monetary policy when assessing borrowing costs and economic conditions. The Business Bureau previously covered the Central Bank of Nigeria’s decision to cut its policy rate to 23%. A change in the policy rate does not automatically translate into lower borrowing costs for every business or consumer.

Exchange-rate movements can affect businesses differently depending on their exposure to imported goods, production inputs and operating expenses. The Bureau’s analysis of the cost of running a POS business in Lagos, Abuja and Port Harcourt illustrates how operating costs can shape business performance across locations.

For a broader view of the relationship between investment, productivity and economic growth, readers can also explore The Business Bureau’s report on Nigeria’s trillion-dollar economy ambition and technology-led growth.

Former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Usman Jibrin (retd), has led a delegation of Kogi East political stakeholders to meet Hon. James Abiodun Faleke, declaring their readiness to unite and mobilise votes for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election in 2027.

The delegation brought together leaders of the Audu/Faleke Political Family and the Tinubu Support Group (TSG), Kogi East.

The engagement focused on strengthening cooperation among the political groups and preparing a coordinated campaign for the President across Kogi East.

Jibrin Urges Leaders to Put Collective Interest First

Speaking at the meeting, Jibrin emphasised peace and unity, saying communities could not secure their future while allowing avoidable divisions to consume their present.

He urged leaders to place collective interests above personal grievances and work together towards a shared political objective.

The former naval chief and former Kogi governorship candidate described the visit as a reaffirmation of the bonds of brotherhood, support and solidarity linking Kogi East stakeholders with Faleke and Tinubu.

By bringing representatives of different political structures together, the delegation sought to strengthen the foundation for a united mobilisation effort ahead of the presidential election.

Appointments and Infrastructure Inform Support

Jibrin thanked Tinubu for appointing sons and daughters of Kogi East to positions in his administration, making particular reference to the appointment of the Chief of Army Staff.

He also commended the President’s economic reforms, describing them as bold decisions intended to secure Nigeria’s future prosperity.

The former service chief praised the administration’s investment in critical infrastructure, which he characterised as transformative.

He said the presidential election presented an opportunity for supporters in Kogi East to demonstrate appreciation for the appointments and attention the district had received.

Kogi East Groups Prepare Joint Mobilisation

Jibrin pledged that participating stakeholders would work together under the Tinubu Support Group platform to deliver a strong electoral statement in January 2027.

He said cooperation among leaders and supporters would be central to translating their commitment into votes for the President.

The participation of the Audu/Faleke Political Family, TSG leaders and representatives of Muri Ajaka’s group gave the meeting a focus on building agreement across existing political networks.

Jibrin’s message was that unity should guide the campaign, with the groups directing their energy towards mobilisation rather than differences among their members.

Faleke Accepts Invitation to Unveil Anyigba Campaign Office

During the meeting, Jibrin invited Faleke to unveil the Tinubu Support Group’s Kogi East campaign office in Anyigba.

Faleke thanked the delegation for its support and solidarity and promised to honour the invitation.

He urged Kogi East leaders to remain united and work together for Tinubu’s re-election.

The planned unveiling will provide another platform for the participating groups to bring their supporters together as they advance preparations for the presidential campaign.

The Presidential Working Group expects to transmit the National Policing Bill to the National Assembly within two weeks, with its chairman, Femi Gbajabiamila, saying preparations are approximately 90 per cent complete.

Gbajabiamila, who is also Chief of Staff to President Bola Tinubu, disclosed this on Thursday after a steering committee meeting at the State House, Abuja.

He said the group needed to resolve outstanding observations from governors and complete a final review before transmission.

One More Meeting Expected Before Submission

Gbajabiamila said the proposed legislation had undergone extensive deliberations since the steering committee began its work on August 3.

“The National Policing Bill is more or less ready for transmission to the National Assembly. We will probably have one more meeting after this to cross the t’s and dot the i’s and make sure every area is covered. So, we are 90% ready,” he said.

He indicated that the remaining issues could be addressed within approximately a week.

“The governors have one or two observations, and we should be ready in about a week or so,” Gbajabiamila added.

Gbajabiamila Expresses Confidence in State Police Amendment

The Chief of Staff also addressed concerns about the pace of state legislative consideration of the Sixth Constitution Alteration Bill concerning state police.

Responding to a question citing reports that only about six state assemblies had passed the amendment, he maintained that there was broad national agreement on the need for the changes.

“I see no reason why anyone will want to have a rethink on it,” he said.

The National Policing Bill and the constitutional amendment concerning state police are separate legislative measures. Gbajabiamila’s remarks indicated that work on the policing bill was approaching the point of submission, rather than that it had already been passed into law.

Governors, Police and Justice Officials Attend

Participants included Nigeria Governors’ Forum Chairman and Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun and Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani.

Inspector-General of Police Tunji Disu also attended. The Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice was represented by the Solicitor-General and Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Justice, Mrs Beatrice Jedy-Agba.

Other participants included:

1. Justice Abdullahi Liman (retd), Chairman of the Policy Advisory Committee.

2. Professor Olu Ogunsakin, Head of the Nigeria Police Reform Secretariat.

3. Dr Lanre Smart, Special Adviser to the President on National Assembly Matters, House of Representatives.

4. Nnadubem Moghalu, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Planning and Research and Secretary of the Committee.

5. A representative of the President of the Nigerian Bar Association.

6. AIG Abraham Nabhon Thomas, representing the National Security Adviser.

Security Challenges Sustain Attention on Policing Reform

The discussions come amid continuing demands for stronger protection of communities and major routes.

Recent security developments reported by The Bureau Journal include the interception of an arms cache in Kogi and the rescue of abducted people following a gun battle in Itobe.

The working group’s next step is to complete its review and transmit the proposed legislation for consideration by the National Assembly.

Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai appeared before the Kaduna State High Court on Tuesday, October 13, as proceedings in his corruption trial continued beyond 7:30pm.

El-Rufai arrived at the court premises at about 11:50am alongside African Democratic Congress (ADC) governorship candidate Isa Ashiru, amid heightened security around the complex.

His appearance followed an order by Justice Darius Khobo directing the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to produce him in court.

Monday’s Sitting Adjourned Over His Absence

The court had adjourned the matter on Monday after El-Rufai did not appear.

It was informed that he had requested access to his personal physician to review medical test results.

Tuesday’s resumed proceedings continued into the evening, with the hearing still underway at the time of filing this report.

Appeal Court Upholds Bail Refusal

The appearance came days after the Court of Appeal in Kaduna dismissed El-Rufai’s challenge to the High Court’s refusal to grant him bail.

In its October 9 judgment, the appellate court upheld the decision, finding that the former governor had not provided sufficient grounds for overturning it.

Former Governor Denies Allegations

El-Rufai has remained in ICPC custody since February 18, 2026, over allegations of financial misconduct connected to his administration of Kaduna State between 2015 and 2023.

He faces charges involving alleged money laundering, abuse of office, fraud and other financial offences before different courts.

The former governor has denied the allegations and pleaded not guilty.

His legal proceedings are unfolding alongside political preparations in the opposition, including his involvement in the ADC presidential campaign council.

No outcome from Tuesday’s hearing or next adjournment date was available at the time of the report.

At least 22 people, including security personnel, were reportedly killed when suspected terrorists ambushed traders travelling under Nigerian Army escort in Bukkuyum Local Government Area of Zamfara State on Sunday, October 11, 2026.

The attack occurred along the route between Gurusu and Gwashi as the traders travelled to a weekly market.

A resident, Malam Aminu Gwashi, told Leadership Newspaper that several traders and members of their security escort were killed, while others sustained injuries.

Wounded Victims Taken to Hospital

According to the resident, injured victims were taken to Bukkuyum General Hospital for emergency treatment.

A separate account by journalist Malik Samuel identified the convoy’s destination as Nasarawa Market and placed the attack between Gwashi and Gurusu.

Samuel reported that wounded victims were evacuated to Anka General Hospital, where he said blood supplies were limited.

Casualty Accounts Differ

While the initial report put the number feared dead at no fewer than 22, Samuel separately reported four soldiers, three policemen, one civil defence officer and 19 civilians killed—a total of 27.

In a quoted post on X, he also said 12 civilian bodies had been recovered at that stage.

The accounts differed on the timing of the ambush, with the initial report placing it in the early hours of Sunday and Samuel describing an afternoon attack.

No official casualty breakdown from the Nigerian Army or the Zamfara State Police Command was available in the reports.

Market Journey Ends in Deadly Ambush

The attack has renewed concerns about travel between rural communities in Bukkuyum, where weekly markets provide an important source of income and access to essential goods.

The presence of a military escort underscores the security risks confronting traders travelling through the area.

Insecurity has also featured in political developments in the state, including complaints cited in the resignation letters of Zamfara lawmakers who left the APC.

Elsewhere, attacks on travellers have prompted security interventions, including the rescue of abducted people following a gun battle in Itobe, Kogi State.

The number killed in Sunday’s Zamfara ambush and the identities of those responsible remained awaiting official confirmation.

“Nigerians should not have to depend on unnamed sources to discover who is producing their ballots,” he said.

Nigeria’s allocation for the 2027 Hajj has increased to 60,000 pilgrims after Saudi Arabia approved an additional 10,000 slots, the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) has announced.

The approval expands the country’s initial allocation of 50,000 slots by 20 per cent, providing additional places through state pilgrims welfare agencies and licensed private tour operators.

In a statement issued on Thursday, October 1, by its Head of Information and Publications Division, Shafii Sani Mohammed, NAHCON said the increase followed sustained high-level diplomatic engagements between the Nigerian and Saudi Arabian governments.

States Receive 7,500 Additional Hajj Slots

Of the additional allocation, 7,500 slots have been assigned to state Muslim pilgrims welfare boards, agencies and commissions, while 2,500 have been allocated to seven lead tour operator companies.

“The additional allocation brings Nigeria’s total Hajj allocation for the 2027 pilgrimage from 50,000 to 60,000 slots,” the commission said.

Nigeria’s original allocation comprised 35,000 slots for the state-managed pilgrimage channel and 15,000 for licensed tour operators.

With the additional places, the allocation rises to 42,500 slots for state pilgrims welfare bodies and 17,500 for private tour operators.

NAHCON Pledges Transparent Administration

NAHCON Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Ambassador Ismail Abba Yusuf, thanked the Federal Government and Saudi Arabian authorities for securing the additional allocation.

He commended President Bola Tinubu’s administration for its support for the Hajj sector and the welfare of Nigerian pilgrims.

Yusuf said the approval reflected the longstanding relationship between Nigeria and Saudi Arabia and their cooperation in facilitating the pilgrimage.

He assured intending pilgrims that the additional slots would be administered transparently and in accordance with Nigerian and Saudi Arabian regulations.

The commission said it would work with state pilgrims welfare bodies and licensed tour operators to implement the allocation.

Commission Reaffirms Commitment to Pilgrims’ Welfare

Yusuf reiterated NAHCON’s commitment to making Hajj affordable and accessible while maintaining accountability, regulatory compliance and efficient service delivery.

He said the commission would continue coordinating with Saudi authorities and other stakeholders to protect the dignity, welfare and interests of Nigerian pilgrims during the 2027 operation.

Preparations are already underway at state level. The Bureau Journal previously reported that Kebbi had remitted ₦21.5 billion to NAHCON and registered 3,257 intending pilgrims ahead of the pilgrimage.

Additional Allocation Raises Registration Timetable Question

NAHCON had earlier said the Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah required intending pilgrims’ biometric data to be uploaded to the designated Nusuk-Masar platform by September 26.

The additional allocation creates a need to clarify the registration and biometric submission arrangements for the newly approved places. The October 1 announcement did not specify a revised deadline.

Journalist Babajide Kolade-Otitoju, popularly known as BKO, has said former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai has received less public support from political allies than he expected during his detention.

In remarks attributed to him on TVC News’ Issues with Jide, Kolade-Otitoju expressed surprise at the response of influential figures who previously maintained close relationships with the former governor.

“I think his lamentation is justified. If anyone had predicted to me that El-Rufai would be abandoned in this way, I would have argued,” he said.

Kolade-Otitoju also speculated that El-Rufai might have expected his detention to provoke demonstrations across Northern Nigeria.

“I’m sure El-Rufai must have thought that his detention would probably have triggered riots in Northern Nigeria. But he’s been left to his fate,” he said.

The suggestion about El-Rufai’s expectations represents Kolade-Otitoju’s interpretation, rather than an established account of the former governor’s intentions.

BKO Questions Bail Conditions

Kolade-Otitoju criticised the bail conditions imposed on El-Rufai, alleging that they were deliberately made difficult to fulfil.

He suggested that unless the relevant courts varied those conditions, the former governor could remain in custody beyond the 2027 general election. That prediction is his assessment, not a court decision or an announced detention timetable.

He also alleged that political considerations could be influencing El-Rufai’s situation. The supplied account contains no evidence establishing that allegation.

The former governor faces separate legal proceedings, making it necessary to distinguish the bail orders and allegations in each case.

In a May 18 report on the DSS prosecution in Abuja, TVC News said the Federal High Court granted El-Rufai bail of ₦100 million with one surety in like sum. Conditions included a senior federal civil servant as surety and property documentation relating to Maitama or Asokoro.

TVC subsequently reported that the defence sought a variation of the bail conditions, describing them as difficult to meet. According to that report, the prosecution opposed the application and the court declined the request.

Political Relationships Come Under Scrutiny

Kolade-Otitoju said the limited public intervention by some Northern leaders illustrated the uncertainty of political support when a former officeholder enters a confrontation with state institutions.

He also claimed that some contractors and politicians who benefited from El-Rufai’s administration had remained silent, while former associates had aligned with the current Kaduna State administration.

These were his assessments of the former governor’s political relationships. Silence alone does not establish the position or private actions of any individual.

Discussing speculation about the Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, Kolade-Otitoju argued that a traditional ruler’s ability to intervene publicly differs from the authority and constitutional protections available to a serving governor.

He suggested that Sanusi’s position could limit his willingness to take a public stand over El-Rufai’s detention. The supplied account does not include a response from the emir.

El-Rufai Has Pleaded Not Guilty

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission has separately announced proceedings against El-Rufai.

In a June 25 statement, the commission said El-Rufai and former aide Jimi Lawal were arraigned on an amended 11-count charge relating to an alleged ₦8.68 billion CCTV contract and associated transactions.

According to the commission, both men pleaded not guilty. The allegations remain matters for determination by the court.

Nigeria and Jamaica have signed an Agreement on Technical Assistance aimed at deepening bilateral cooperation and expanding the reach of Nigeria’s Technical Aid Corps (TAC) Programme in the Caribbean country.

The agreement was signed at the United Nations Headquarters in New York during the high-level activities of the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly.

The signing followed discussions between Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, and Jamaica’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Senator Kamina Johnson Smith.

Nigeria and Jamaica Seek Deeper Technical Cooperation

The bilateral meeting focused on strengthening relations between the two countries and expanding people-to-people exchanges through practical areas of cooperation.

According to a statement by the minister’s Media Assistant, Dr Magnus Eze, the two foreign ministers reviewed opportunities for deeper collaboration and agreed to explore additional areas of mutual interest through existing bilateral mechanisms.

The agreement further builds on longstanding ties between Nigeria and Jamaica, with technical assistance providing a channel through which Nigerian professionals can contribute expertise to development programmes in Jamaica.

Jamaica Wants More Nigerian Professionals

Johnson Smith expressed Jamaica’s appreciation for Nigeria’s contribution to the country’s development through the TAC Programme.

She highlighted the programme’s contribution in areas including health, education and local fabric artisanry, while indicating Jamaica’s interest in receiving more Nigerian professionals.

Among the professionals Jamaica is interested in receiving are Nigerian nurses and teachers, whose expertise could support institutions and communities in the country.

The Jamaican minister said the TAC Programme had produced an impact beyond the transfer of technical skills, also creating opportunities for cultural and creative exchanges between Nigerians and Jamaicans.

How Nigeria’s TAC Programme Influenced “JADIRE”

One example cited during the discussions was “JADIRE”, a concept that combines Jamaican designs with Nigeria’s traditional Adire tie-and-dye textile technique.

The concept was developed by Jamaican artisans following training they received through Nigeria’s Technical Aid Corps Programme in 2018.

The example illustrates how technical assistance can produce outcomes that extend beyond conventional professional training, creating opportunities for cultural exchange and adaptation of indigenous creative practices.

In this case, Nigeria’s traditional textile knowledge became part of a creative concept developed by artisans in Jamaica, providing a practical example of how cooperation between the two countries can operate at community level.

Agreement Signed During Nigeria’s UNGA Engagements

The agreement formed part of a series of bilateral engagements undertaken by Odumegwu-Ojukwu on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly.

Nigeria used the UNGA platform to hold discussions with several countries and international organisations on bilateral relations, trade, development, security and other areas of mutual interest.

The agreement with Jamaica comes alongside a broader pattern of bilateral engagements involving Nigeria and countries across different regions.

Nigeria Expands Bilateral Engagements

In recent weeks, Nigeria has pursued bilateral discussions covering areas ranging from trade and investment to technology, migration, security and human-capital development.

The country’s growing engagement with international partners comes at a time when Nigeria is seeking greater investment, stronger economic partnerships and expanded opportunities for its citizens abroad.

The Bureau Journal recently examined the changing global trade environment after global goods trade reached $13.7 trillion in the first half of 2026, highlighting the importance of international commerce and stronger connections to global markets.

Nigeria’s diplomatic engagements increasingly intersect with these economic priorities as the government seeks to deepen partnerships beyond traditional political relations.

Technical Aid as a Tool of Diplomacy

The Nigeria-Jamaica agreement also highlights the role of technical assistance in Nigeria’s foreign-policy engagement.

Rather than limiting bilateral relations to diplomatic meetings and political consultations, the TAC Programme provides a mechanism for Nigerian professionals to share skills and experience directly with partner countries.

The programme can therefore serve both development and diplomatic objectives, while creating opportunities for Nigerian professionals to work in international environments.

The Jamaican interest in Nigerian nurses and teachers suggests that human-capital cooperation could become an important component of the next phase of Nigeria-Jamaica relations.

Nigeria’s International Partnerships Broaden

Nigeria’s foreign-policy engagements have also expanded into areas such as technology, investment and economic cooperation.

The country’s relationship with global partners has become increasingly important as Nigeria seeks to attract capital, expand markets for its products and strengthen its position within international value chains.

People-to-People Relations at the Centre

The discussions between Odumegwu-Ojukwu and Johnson Smith also placed emphasis on people-to-people relations.

That aspect of the agreement is significant because Nigeria and Jamaica share longstanding cultural and historical connections, while technical cooperation provides a practical avenue for strengthening those ties.

The TAC Programme’s work in Jamaica, particularly in health, education and artisan training, demonstrates how bilateral relations can extend directly into communities.

The Nigerian Foreign Affairs Ministry has also placed greater emphasis on engagement with Nigerians living abroad as part of its broader citizens-diplomacy agenda.

Nigeria’s Foreign Policy Focuses on Practical Cooperation

The agreement with Jamaica comes amid a wider effort by Nigeria to pursue practical bilateral partnerships in areas that can produce measurable benefits.

Recent engagements have covered trade, investment, technology, migration, security and human-capital development, reflecting the broad range of interests shaping Nigeria’s external relations.

During the current UNGA period, Nigeria has also engaged partners on migration cooperation and legal mobility. The Bureau Journal has continued to monitor these international engagements as they develop.

The country’s participation in global forums has similarly provided opportunities to strengthen relations with emerging economic partners and international institutions.

For example, Nigeria’s participation in BRICS-related diplomacy has focused on expanding South-South cooperation in areas including trade, investment, technology and industrial development.

What the Nigeria-Jamaica Agreement Could Mean

The immediate significance of the agreement lies in creating a formal framework for expanding technical cooperation between the two countries.

For Jamaica, increased access to Nigerian professionals could provide additional expertise in sectors where the country has identified specific needs.

For Nigeria, the expansion of the TAC Programme creates another avenue for Nigerian professionals to contribute internationally while strengthening bilateral relations.

The cultural dimension could also remain important, particularly where technical assistance produces local adaptations such as the JADIRE textile concept.

More Areas of Cooperation Expected

The two ministers agreed to explore additional areas of mutual interest through existing and other bilateral platforms.

This leaves room for Nigeria and Jamaica to expand cooperation beyond the sectors currently highlighted, depending on the priorities identified by both governments.

The formal signing of the agreement therefore represents a new step in the relationship rather than the conclusion of bilateral discussions.

Both countries said the agreement reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening longstanding relations and advancing practical cooperation for mutual benefit.

Nigeria-Jamaica Relations Enter a New Phase

The expansion of the Technical Aid Corps Programme into additional areas of Jamaica’s development agenda could give the longstanding relationship between the two countries a more practical dimension.

With Jamaica seeking more Nigerian nurses and teachers and continuing to value the contribution of Nigerian technical expertise, the TAC Programme could become an important channel for deeper people-to-people cooperation.

For Nigeria, the agreement demonstrates how technical assistance can function as an instrument of international cooperation while showcasing the skills and expertise of Nigerian professionals abroad.

The signing in New York, alongside Nigeria’s wider diplomatic engagements during UNGA 81, also underscores the government’s continued use of multilateral platforms to strengthen bilateral partnerships around the world.

ccollins:
Ftc. On a serious note, Accra is more neater than lagos and has fresh natural breeze. Lagos is too choked, polluted and filled with dirty and filth. People shit and urinate on the roads, gutters, highways and even in inside people's premises. The dirt and horrid smell in lagos is sickening. Street markets in lagos are very very filthy with filth and human waste at every corner in lagos markets.

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) Elders Council in Kebbi State has rejected reports of a growing rift between the council and the governorship campaign of Abubakar Chika Malami, describing the claims as false and misleading.

Chairman of the council, Abubakar Udu, said the relationship between the elders and the Malami-led campaign remains cordial, insisting that there is no disagreement over the political understanding that brought members of the former Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) structure into the ADC.

Udu, who previously contested the Kebbi governorship election on the PRP platform, pointed to the continued involvement of his former running mate, Sani Tadurga, in Malami's campaign structure as evidence of what he described as a healthy relationship.

Tadurga currently serves as the Director-General of the Malami campaign, according to Udu.

Udu Rejects Claims of Disagreement With Malami

Reacting to reports suggesting that the elders council had become dissatisfied with the Malami campaign, Udu dismissed the claims as the work of individuals seeking to create division within the party.

He argued that the continued collaboration between members of the former PRP structure and Malami's campaign contradicted suggestions that the relationship had broken down.

"Those peddling the rumour are agents of mischief who delight in creating false narratives against a united party in the state," Udu said.

He further questioned why his former running mate would remain a senior figure within Malami's campaign if relations between the political groups had deteriorated.

The latest development comes days after The Bureau Journal reported on another dispute within the Kebbi ADC, involving three aggrieved aspirants who denied allegations that they were working against Malami or the party.

Elders Council Says Its Role Is Beyond Party Positions

Udu said the elders council was primarily interested in contributing to the success of the ADC at the polls rather than seeking political appointments or positions within the party structure.

According to him, the elders provide political guidance and useful input aimed at strengthening the party's electoral prospects.

"As elders council, we provide useful inputs on the success of the party at the polls, not necessarily to occupy seats in the party," he said.

His comments come as political parties across Kebbi and other parts of Nigeria intensify preparations for the 2027 elections, with disputes over party structures, nominations and political alliances becoming increasingly prominent.

The Bureau Journal's guide to the 2027 general elections provides broader context on the political realignments and electoral issues expected to shape the next national contest.

Udu Dismisses Defections as ‘Inconsequential’

The elders council chairman also responded to the reported defection of two young politicians who were associated with the former PRP structure before its political alignment with the ADC.

Udu described the individuals as insignificant to the wider political structure of the ADC in Kebbi, alleging that they were being sponsored by unnamed persons to make statements capable of creating confusion within the party.

He referred to them as "sponsored vocalists" and alleged that their activities were intended to portray divisions within the party where, according to him, none existed.

The allegations of sponsorship were made by Udu and were not independently established by The Bureau Journal.

Malami Campaign Faces Wider Political Attention

The dispute comes at a time when Malami's political activities in Kebbi are attracting increasing attention ahead of the 2027 elections.

Abubakar Chika Malami is the ADC governorship candidate in Kebbi, while the party's presidential ticket is held by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.

Atiku has recently intensified his policy messaging ahead of the elections, including a pledge to reopen Nigeria's land borders and revive southern ports if elected.

The ADC's political activities in Kebbi are also unfolding against the backdrop of continuing scrutiny of Malami's political and legal affairs. The Bureau Journal previously reported on controversy surrounding the former Attorney-General's ongoing trial and allegations of media bias, although those proceedings are separate from the current political disagreement.

Kebbi 2027 Contest Takes Shape

The latest claims and counterclaims illustrate the increasingly competitive political environment in Kebbi as parties build their structures ahead of 2027.

The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), meanwhile, has been consolidating its position in the state. APC stakeholders recently endorsed Governor Nasir Idris for another term, setting up a potentially competitive contest involving the ruling party and opposition platforms.

The Bureau Journal also recently published the emerging list of APC senatorial candidates for the 2027 elections, providing further context on the political preparations underway across Nigeria.

For the ADC elders council, however, Udu insists that reports of a breakdown in its relationship with Malami's campaign do not reflect the current situation.

He maintained that the council remains committed to contributing to the party's electoral success and dismissed the reported disagreements as attempts by political actors to create confusion within the emerging ADC structure in Kebbi.

The Bureau Journal will continue to monitor political developments within the ADC and other parties as Kebbi moves closer to the 2027 elections.

A Joint Investigation Visit (JIV) has identified operational failure as the cause of a fresh crude oil spill at the Nembe Creek oilfield in Bayelsa State, with more than 20 fishing settlements and communities reportedly affected by the pollution.

The incident occurred on Saturday, August 22, 2026, during crude oil loading operations at the facility in Nembe Local Government Area, according to residents and information from the investigation.

The spill reportedly happened while crude was being transferred from a manifold into a loading barge. The manifold tilted during the operation, allowing crude oil to discharge into the surrounding river and spread through adjoining waterways.

Although the JIV has established operational failure as the cause, the precise volume of crude released and the full extent of the affected area have yet to be determined.

The development has renewed concerns over the environmental and economic consequences of oil production and transportation activities in the Niger Delta, where fishing communities remain heavily dependent on rivers, creeks and mangrove ecosystems for their livelihoods.

Oil Spreads Across Fishing Communities

Residents said crude oil has spread across fishing settlements, mangrove swamps, rivers and creeks around the Nembe Creek oilfield, contaminating areas used for fishing and other livelihood activities.

Communities affected include a number of fishing settlements around the Nembe Creek area, with residents reporting damage to aquatic resources and fishing activities.

Joshua Robert Oruge, a resident of Robertkiri, said the pollution had affected fish species, oysters, crayfish and periwinkles that provide both food and income for people living in the area.

For communities whose economies depend largely on fishing, the impact goes beyond the visible spread of crude oil. A contaminated creek can mean lost fishing days, damaged equipment, reduced catches and lower household income.

The situation also raises broader questions about the environmental cost of Nigeria's continued dependence on petroleum production. The Bureau Journal has previously examined the government's plans to attract fresh investment into the country's oil and gas industry, including the potential $50 billion deep offshore investment programme.

Residents Demand Cleanup and Compensation

Residents of the affected communities have appealed to the Bayelsa State Government, the Federal Government and relevant regulatory agencies to intervene urgently.

They want the affected areas properly assessed, cleaned up and remediated, while also calling for assistance for residents whose livelihoods have been disrupted.

Chief Agent Anthony Waya, the paramount ruler of Nembe Creek communities, said residents had continued to bear the consequences of repeated oil spills in the area.

He expressed concern about the recurrence of pollution around the facility and called for a stronger response to the concerns being raised by host communities.

The Women Leader of Nembe Creek communities, Ebi Otokolo, and another resident, Biodomoye Kamre, also raised concerns about the persistent smell of crude oil in the affected areas.

They said residents were worried about the consequences of the pollution and the loss of their primary sources of livelihood.

ECARD Calls for Comprehensive Remediation

Environmental watchdog Environmental Conservation Agriculture and Rural Development (ECARD) has called for a comprehensive cleanup and remediation programme covering the affected communities and waterways.

Chief Alagoa Morris, the organisation's Chief Operating Officer, said authorities and the operating company should also provide relief materials and compensation to residents who have suffered losses as a result of the pollution.

The call is significant because the environmental consequences of an oil spill can extend beyond the period during which crude remains visible on the surface. Mangroves, aquatic organisms and other components of the ecosystem can remain exposed even after the most obvious signs of contamination have disappeared.

Earlier investigations into oil pollution in the Niger Delta have also shown how disputes over the causes and consequences of spills can complicate remediation and compensation. The history makes accurate investigation, transparent reporting and effective cleanup particularly important in the latest Nembe Creek incident.

Nembe Creek Has a Long History of Oil-Spill Concerns

The latest incident is not the first major oil spill associated with operations around the Nembe Creek oilfield.

The field is located within Oil Mining Lease 29 (OML 29), an important petroleum asset in the Niger Delta. The asset was previously operated by Shell Petroleum Development Company before being divested to Aiteo Eastern Exploration and Production Company in 2015. The operating company is now known as Nembe Exploration and Production Limited.

The area has experienced major spills in the past, including the Santa Barbara OML 29 Well 1 incident in 2019 and another major spill in 2021.

The 2021 incident generated significant controversy over its cause, the scale of the environmental damage and the response to affected communities. That history means the latest spill is likely to attract renewed scrutiny from regulators, environmental organisations and host communities.

For Nigeria's petroleum industry, the issue is particularly important at a time when the government is seeking to increase investment and production. The Bureau Journal recently examined what the country's domestic refining and petroleum policy debate means for consumers and the wider economy.

Crude Loading Operations Under Scrutiny

Residents said several previous incidents around the facility had been associated with crude oil loading and transportation operations.

They are therefore calling for safer and more reliable methods of evacuating crude from the area, rather than relying on methods they believe expose waterways and fishing settlements to unnecessary risks.

The latest JIV finding that operational failure caused the spill places renewed attention on the integrity of equipment, loading procedures, maintenance standards and emergency-response systems at petroleum facilities.

That concern extends beyond Nembe Creek. As Nigeria seeks to expand its petroleum production and attract new investment, the ability to prevent operational failures and protect host communities will remain an important part of the industry's long-term credibility.

The Bureau Journal has reported on the Federal Government's effort to unlock new oil and gas investment through its deep offshore investment framework, highlighting the economic opportunities that could come with increased petroleum activity.

But increased production also brings a responsibility to ensure that environmental protection, community relations and operational safety keep pace with investment.

Company Yet to Respond

Nembe Exploration and Production Limited has yet to publicly issue a statement on the latest incident.

Efforts to obtain the company's response were unsuccessful, with messages sent to the company reportedly unanswered.

The absence of a public response leaves several questions unanswered, including the quantity of crude discharged, the immediate containment measures taken, the number of communities affected and the proposed timeline for cleanup.

Those questions will become increasingly important as residents await the outcome of further assessments of the affected waterways.

Livelihoods Remain the Immediate Concern

For the residents of Nembe Creek and neighbouring fishing settlements, however, the most immediate issue is not the technical description of the spill.

It is whether they can return to the water.

Fishing provides food and income for many families in the area. When rivers and creeks are contaminated, the consequences are felt directly in household incomes and local food supplies.

The impact also comes at a difficult time for Nigerian households already dealing with rising costs. The Bureau Journal has previously reported on the wider energy-price pressures affecting Nigerians, including the sharp rise in cooking gas prices and its effect on households and businesses.

For communities whose economic survival depends on natural resources, environmental damage can compound those pressures.

What Happens Next?

The next stage should be a detailed assessment of the affected environment and the losses suffered by residents.

That assessment should establish the volume of crude released, the geographical spread of the contamination, the impact on aquatic life and fishing activities, and the areas requiring remediation.

Residents and environmental advocates are also likely to watch closely for the implementation of any cleanup programme and the outcome of discussions over compensation and relief.

The incident also reinforces the importance of environmental safeguards as Nigeria seeks to expand its petroleum industry. Investment in oil and gas can create jobs, generate government revenue and strengthen energy security, but the economic benefits are difficult to justify when host communities are left carrying the environmental costs.

That balance is particularly important as Nigeria works to diversify its economy and build stronger domestic productive capacity. The Bureau Journal's recent coverage of global trade and Nigeria's efforts to strengthen productive sectors underscores the wider economic importance of building industries that generate value without weakening the communities and environments that sustain them.

For Nembe Creek, the priority now is clear: establish the full extent of the damage, contain the pollution, restore the affected environment and ensure that residents whose livelihoods have been disrupted receive appropriate support.

The JIV has identified operational failure as the cause. The next test will be whether the authorities and the operating company can respond with the same level of urgency to the consequences.

The Bureau Journal will continue to monitor developments surrounding the Nembe Creek oil spill, including further findings on the volume of crude released, the environmental impact, cleanup efforts and the response of Nembe Exploration and Production Limited.

Gunmen who abducted members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in Kogi State have reportedly demanded a ransom of ₦20 million for each of the victims still being held captive.

The corps members were among 15 NYSC members travelling from Bayelsa State to Abuja after completing their three-week orientation exercise when the attackers reportedly intercepted their vehicles along the Aloma-Egane Expressway in Ofu Local Government Area of Kogi State.

A family member of one of the victims disclosed that the kidnappers had contacted relatives and communicated the ransom demand.

“One of our daughters was kidnapped on her way from Bayelsa State to Abuja after completing the three-week orientation camp. The kidnappers are requesting N20 million,” the family member said.

11 Abducted Passengers Rescued

The latest development comes days after the Kogi State Police Command confirmed the abduction of passengers, including NYSC members, along the route.

According to the police, 11 abducted persons, including the drivers of the two vehicles involved in the incident, were rescued during a joint security operation.

The command said security agencies were continuing efforts to locate and rescue those still in captivity and apprehend the perpetrators.

The development has heightened concerns over the safety of major highways in Kogi State, particularly routes linking the northern and southern parts of the country.

Families Seek Government Intervention

Families of some of the victims have appealed to the Federal Government, NYSC management and security agencies to intensify efforts to secure the release of the remaining corps members and other passengers still being held.

The families are particularly concerned about the reported ransom demand and the safety of the victims as security agencies continue their operations in the area.

The incident has also renewed attention on the security challenges confronting corps members who often travel long distances between their places of deployment, orientation camps and permanent residences.

Kogi Highway Kidnapping Raises Fresh Security Concerns

The abduction is the latest security incident reported along a highway corridor in Kogi State, where forested areas and long stretches of road have previously been vulnerable to attacks and kidnappings.

Security experts have repeatedly stressed the importance of intelligence-led operations, improved highway surveillance and stronger cooperation between security agencies and communities in tackling highway kidnappings.

The Bureau Journal recently reported the killing of Kogi APC chairman Ishaq Yunusa and the abduction of another occupant of his vehicle along the Itobe-Ochadamu Expressway, highlighting the continuing security concerns around parts of the state.

The latest incident also comes against the backdrop of wider concerns over insecurity across Nigeria and calls for stronger government action to protect lives and property.

NYSC Members Remain in Captivity

While 11 people have reportedly been rescued, some of the corps members and other passengers remain in captivity, according to the latest information available.

The reported ransom demand has added another layer of urgency to efforts to secure their release.

The Bureau Journal will continue to follow developments as security agencies work to locate the remaining victims and establish the full circumstances surrounding the attack.

For now, families of the abducted corps members are calling for swift action to ensure that those still in captivity return home safely.

The legal dispute within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Kebbi State has deepened, with three aggrieved party members denying allegations that they are being sponsored to undermine the party’s governorship candidate, Abubakar Chika Malami.

The three members — Abubakar Sadiq Sa’adu Fakai, Muhammad Umar and Nafiu Bello Shuwa — are challenging their alleged replacement after they claimed to have won the party’s legally conducted primaries.

In a statement signed by the three aspirants on Saturday, they described allegations that they were working against Malami or the ADC as “fictitious” and “baseless”, insisting that their legal action was aimed at reclaiming what they described as their stolen mandates.

The dispute comes as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 elections, with Kebbi State already witnessing growing competition and realignment among political parties and their candidates.

Aggrieved ADC Aspirants Reject Allegations

The three politicians said they were not fighting Malami, the ADC or any individual, but were pursuing legal remedies over what they alleged was an unlawful alteration of the outcome of the party primaries.

“For clarification sake, we are not fighting Malami, ADC or anybody, but we remain undeterred in our legal struggle to reclaim our stolen mandates by the alleged forgers in our party whom we believe are not after the success of our party,” they said.

Fakai, who spoke on behalf of the group, said the allegations of sponsorship would not discourage them from pursuing their case through the courts.

He maintained that as persons who claimed to be the valid candidates emerging from the party process, they had the right to seek judicial redress in accordance with Nigerian law.

Fakai Accuses Party Actors of Forging Documents

Fakai further alleged that affidavits and other documents had been forged in an attempt to create the impression that the affected candidates voluntarily withdrew their candidatures.

He argued that if established, such conduct would go beyond an internal party disagreement and could amount to a criminal offence.

However, the allegations remain claims by the aggrieved aspirants and have not been independently established by The Bureau Journal.

The development highlights the growing importance of internal party processes as political parties prepare for the 2027 elections. Across Nigeria, disputes over primaries, nominations and candidate substitutions have continued to generate legal challenges and political disagreements.

‘We Are Not Working Against Malami’

The three aspirants also rejected claims that their court action was intended to weaken the chances of Malami, the ADC governorship candidate in Kebbi.

Fakai argued that those accusing them of working against the party could themselves be contributing to the crisis by attempting to prevent the aggrieved members from pursuing their legal rights.

He said the group remained committed to the ADC and its presidential candidate, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, while insisting that their disagreement was centred on the handling of their candidatures.

The Bureau Journal recently reported on Atiku Abubakar’s campaign position on economic and trade issues, including his pledge to reopen Nigeria’s land borders and revive southern ports if elected. The issue forms part of the wider policy debate surrounding the ADC’s 2027 political campaign.

Kebbi Politics Enters Another Competitive Phase

The dispute within the ADC is unfolding against the backdrop of increased political activity in Kebbi State ahead of the 2027 elections.

The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has also been consolidating its political structure in the state. The Bureau Journal previously reported that APC stakeholders endorsed Governor Nasir Idris for another term, highlighting the strength of the ruling party’s political machinery in Kebbi.

Governor Nasir Idris has also been engaging traditional rulers as part of preparations for the next electoral cycle. His visits to traditional institutions were reported in Kebbi political activities intensify as Nasir Idris seeks royal backing for 2027.

The state's political environment has also been shaped by internal party disputes. Earlier in the year, the Kebbi APC suspended its state chairman and Zuru Local Government chairman following complaints from party stakeholders.

Such developments demonstrate that internal disagreements are not limited to one political platform as parties navigate candidate selection, leadership structures and preparations for the next elections.

Legal Challenge Could Shape ADC’s Kebbi Campaign

The outcome of the ongoing legal challenge could have implications for the ADC’s structure and campaign strategy in Kebbi if the dispute remains unresolved.

Party unity will be particularly important as political organisations seek to consolidate their structures ahead of the 2027 elections. The ADC is part of a broader opposition realignment that has placed Atiku Abubakar and other opposition figures at the centre of Nigeria’s emerging 2027 political contest.

The Bureau Journal’s guide to Nigeria’s 2027 elections provides wider context on the evolving political landscape, including the opposition coalition and changes affecting the electoral process.

The ADC’s internal dispute also comes amid wider political realignments across the country. The Bureau Journal previously examined how politicians associated with Atiku’s political network have been moving across party lines in its report on Atiku-linked politicians finding new political ground in Kogi APC circles.

Aggrieved Members Reaffirm Loyalty to ADC

Despite their disagreement with some individuals within the party, Fakai and his colleagues reaffirmed their loyalty to the ADC, Atiku Abubakar and what they described as lawful members of the party.

They said their continued legal action should not be interpreted as an attempt to destabilise the party, maintaining that they were seeking justice through the appropriate legal channels.

The dispute is now expected to be closely watched by political stakeholders in Kebbi as the courts consider the issues surrounding the contested candidatures.

Until the relevant legal proceedings are concluded, the allegations of forgery, unlawful replacement and sponsorship remain contested claims by the aggrieved aspirants.

The Bureau Journal will continue to monitor developments in the Kebbi ADC dispute and the wider political preparations ahead of the 2027 elections.

Eleven people, including National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members, have been rescued after gunmen attacked vehicles along the Aloma–Egane Expressway in Ofu Local Government Area of Kogi State, while security operatives continue searching for other victims still believed to be in captivity.

The incident occurred on Wednesday, August 26, 2026, as the corps members were travelling from the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp in Kolokuma/Opokuma Local Government Area of Bayelsa State towards Abuja after completing their orientation programme.

Initial reports indicated that 15 NYSC members were among those abducted along the Ofu/Itobe–Onicha-Igo axis. The development triggered concern among relatives and renewed attention to the security situation along Kogi's major highways.

Kogi Police Confirm Attack, Rescue 11 Victims

The Kogi State Police Command later confirmed the attack, saying armed men emerged from the surrounding bush and intercepted two buses around Ogene Zaria, near the Ogene Zaria–Onicha-Igo Junction.

According to the police, the incident occurred at about 4:40 p.m. on Wednesday when the assailants blocked two vehicles travelling in opposite directions and abducted some of the passengers, while others escaped into the surrounding bush.

The Divisional Police Officer in Ofu subsequently led a joint security team to the scene following a distress call.

Two abandoned vehicles, including a Peace Mass Transit white Hummer bus and a yellow 18-seater bus, were recovered from the area.

The police said a coordinated bush-combing and rescue operation was immediately launched, leading to the recovery of 11 abducted victims, including the drivers of the two buses.

Preliminary debriefing indicated that most of those rescued were NYSC members travelling from Bayelsa State to Abuja.

Search Continues for Remaining Victims

Despite the rescue operation, the Kogi State Police Command said its operation in the surrounding forest was still ongoing.

The security operation is aimed at locating the remaining victims, apprehending the attackers and bringing those responsible for the attack to justice.

The development means that the initial reports of 15 abducted NYSC members have since been followed by an official account confirming the rescue of 11 victims, while the fate and exact number of those still in captivity remain subject to the ongoing operation.

Families Raised Alarm Over Abduction

Before the police confirmation, relatives of some of the victims had raised the alarm over the incident.

One relative told the Foundation for Investigative Journalism that his brother, identified as Ayodele David, was among those reportedly abducted while travelling to Abuja after completing the NYSC orientation programme in Bayelsa State.

The relative said the victims were travelling in two buses when the attackers struck along the Ofu/Itobe–Onicha-Igo axis.

He also said a police officer had contacted some of the families after obtaining information from a passenger manifest left behind at the scene.

Earlier reports said the Peace Mass Transit vehicle was among the buses attacked and that its driver sustained injuries during the incident.

Fresh Security Concern Along Kogi Highway

The latest incident adds to a series of kidnapping attacks reported along major highways and forest corridors in Kogi State in recent weeks.

The Ofu axis has previously witnessed attacks involving commercial vehicles and passengers. Earlier this month, suspected kidnappers attacked three buses and abducted passengers along the Itobe road, prompting security agencies to intensify operations in the area.

Security forces subsequently mounted a rescue operation that led to the recovery of 15 kidnap victims after a gun battle with suspected abductors. The Bureau Journal reported the rescue of the 15 victims following the Itobe gun battle, although security personnel also suffered casualties during the operation.

The repeated attacks have raised concerns over the vulnerability of travellers using the state's forest-lined transportation corridors.

Kogi Faces Wider Security Challenges

The security situation extends beyond highway kidnappings. In July, students, a school principal and a NECO official were abducted during an examination in Dekina Local Government Area, prompting a security response in the area.

Security agencies have also continued operations aimed at disrupting criminal networks operating across Kogi. In May, Nigerian security forces arrested two suspected terrorists during a patrol operation in Ajaokuta.

In another operation, security agencies intercepted an arms cache as authorities worked to prevent criminal groups from regrouping in the state. The Bureau Journal reported the Kogi arms interception and the subsequent security response.

Authorities Intensify Rescue Operation

The police command said the ongoing operation involves coordinated security efforts in the surrounding forest as authorities work to secure the affected corridor.

The command has also urged residents and travellers to remain vigilant and provide security agencies with credible information that could assist in locating criminal elements operating in the area.

The latest development underscores the continuing security challenge facing travellers along some Kogi highways, particularly routes bordered by large forested areas that can provide cover for criminal groups.

For the families of the remaining victims, however, the immediate priority remains their safe recovery.

As security personnel continue the search, authorities are expected to provide further updates on the number of victims still in captivity and the progress of efforts to apprehend the attackers.

aswani:
Has anyone ever heard of this online news site before?

I had a quick look at it, practically all the topics from news to sports to politics are from the same person who lists himself on Facebook and Twitter not as a journalist but as a Web developer

If you do a google search on his name, nothing about the newspaper he purportedly works for, this businesses Journal.

Hundeyin slipped up last time with this useless news as his name was on the list of owners of a previous news website he used to disseminate this BS news. Now he has tightened that loophole, we don't know who owns this online newspaper. Well we do know it's him but can't easily prove it.

The news is fake, there is no court case, Judge Howell is not sitting on any case or has delivered any judgement.

The last postponement was meant to be for a hearing on June 1st, we heard nothing till today when at least 2 obscure websites are going heavy on the news that the deadline is on August 21,

We know nothing will happen and are tired of this BS that only serves to encourage Obidients who celebrate a nothing news.

Ottersberger, here we go again.

The legal battle over United States records linked to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has entered another important stage, with a US federal court setting a fresh deadline for the release or processing of records sought from American government agencies.

The case has attracted considerable attention in Nigeria because it involves records reportedly held by the US Department of Justice (DOJ), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), as well as allegations connected to historical investigations involving Tinubu.

However, it is important to distinguish between allegations, investigative records and established facts. The existence of government records or an investigation does not, by itself, establish criminal wrongdoing.

How the Tinubu US Records Case Started

The dispute stems from a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request seeking records held by US government agencies concerning historical investigations involving Tinubu.

The request eventually became the subject of litigation after the agencies did not provide the information sought in the manner requested by the claimant.

The case therefore became less about whether allegations against Tinubu were true and more about whether US government agencies had complied with their legal obligations under the Freedom of Information Act.

The Bureau Journal previously reported on the US court order concerning the release of Tinubu-linked DOJ, FBI and DEA records.

Why the FBI and DEA Are Involved

The FBI and DEA are among the US federal agencies whose records are at the centre of the FOIA dispute.

The FBI investigates a wide range of federal offences and national security matters, while the DEA is responsible for enforcing US federal laws relating to controlled substances and investigating drug-trafficking activities.

Because the records being sought reportedly relate to historical investigations, the involvement of these agencies does not necessarily mean that the allegations contained in or associated with the records were proven.

Investigative agencies routinely create records during inquiries, including correspondence, reports, interviews, evidence-related documents and administrative materials. Some of those records can remain subject to legal restrictions even after an investigation has ended.

What the US Court Actually Ruled

The important issue in the case is the public's access to government records under the US Freedom of Information Act.

A federal court previously rejected aspects of the agencies' refusal to confirm or deny the existence of certain responsive records and directed the relevant agencies to process records in accordance with FOIA requirements.

This distinction is important. A court ordering agencies to process or release records does not amount to a judicial finding that the allegations contained in those records are true.

The court's role in the FOIA dispute is primarily concerned with access to government records and whether the agencies have properly applied the exemptions available to them under US law.

What Is a FOIA Case?

The Freedom of Information Act is a US law that gives members of the public a mechanism for requesting access to records held by federal government agencies.

However, the right of access is not absolute. US law contains exemptions that allow agencies to withhold certain information, including material involving privacy, national security, confidential sources and some law-enforcement matters.

When a requester believes an agency has improperly withheld records, the dispute can be taken to federal court.

That is the legal framework within which the Tinubu-related records dispute should be understood.

What Is a “Glomar Response”?

One of the important concepts in US FOIA litigation is the so-called “Glomar response”.

A Glomar response occurs when an agency refuses to confirm or deny whether it possesses records responsive to a particular request.

The rationale is that even confirming the existence or non-existence of records could sometimes reveal information that the law protects.

Courts can review whether an agency has provided a legally sufficient basis for using such a response.

In the Tinubu-related litigation, the dispute over access to records has therefore involved questions about whether the US agencies could continue withholding information under applicable FOIA exemptions.

Why the August 21 Deadline Matters

The latest development came after the US Department of Justice sought additional time in connection with compliance with the court's directive.

US District Judge Beryl Howell subsequently granted only part of the requested extension and set August 21, 2026, as the new deadline for the government and Tinubu to respond. Recent reporting also indicates that Tinubu formally joined the request for additional time.

The development means the case has reached another procedural milestone and could provide greater clarity about the next steps in the records dispute.

Does the Court Ruling Prove the Allegations Against Tinubu?

No.

This is one of the most important points readers should understand.

A court order concerning access to government records is not the same thing as a criminal conviction or a judicial determination that allegations contained in those records are true.

The records, if released, may contain information from investigations, allegations, witness accounts, administrative documents or other material. Their evidentiary significance would depend on their contents and context.

For that reason, claims that the court has “proven” allegations against Tinubu would go beyond what the FOIA litigation itself establishes.

What Could Happen If the Records Are Released?

If responsive records are released, they could provide additional information about historical investigations and the circumstances surrounding the documents sought through the FOIA request.

However, the release may not necessarily mean that every document requested will become publicly available in full.

FOIA allows agencies to redact or withhold portions of records where specific legal exemptions apply.

Consequently, any eventual disclosure could consist of complete documents, partially redacted documents or records from which protected information has been removed.

Why the Case Matters in Nigeria

The dispute has taken on additional political significance because Tinubu is Nigeria's sitting president and is widely expected to remain a major figure in the country's 2027 political contest.

The Bureau Journal's guide to the 2027 Nigerian elections examines the political environment surrounding Tinubu, the opposition and the major issues expected to shape the next general election.

Any new information emerging from the US records case is therefore likely to attract political attention in Nigeria, particularly among supporters of the administration and opposition political groups.

Tinubu's Political Environment Ahead of 2027

The records controversy is developing against the backdrop of an increasingly active political environment ahead of Nigeria's 2027 general elections.

President Tinubu's administration has faced intense political debate over economic reforms, constitutional issues, electoral reforms and the direction of the country.

The Presidency has also had to respond to claims circulating online about alleged constitutional plans. The Bureau Journal previously reported the Presidency's denial of reports concerning the alleged “Project True Federation” constitutional plan.

These developments demonstrate why claims involving the President should be assessed carefully, particularly where allegations, political commentary and verified legal findings are presented together.

What the FBI and DEA Records Could Tell the Public

The significance of any released documents will ultimately depend on what they contain.

Potential records could provide historical information about investigations, communications between agencies, legal proceedings or other matters associated with the FOIA request.

But readers should avoid drawing conclusions before the documents are independently reviewed and their contents placed in the correct legal and historical context.

Government investigative files can contain allegations that were never substantiated, information supplied by third parties and investigative leads that did not ultimately result in criminal charges.

What Happens Next?

The immediate focus is on the August 21, 2026 deadline set by Judge Howell.

Further court filings could clarify what records the government intends to release, what information it believes remains protected and what additional arguments may be presented by the parties.

The case could also generate further litigation if either side disputes how the court's order is implemented.

For the public, the most important development will ultimately be whether additional records become available and what those documents actually contain.

Key Things to Know About the Tinubu Records Case

The dispute involves a US Freedom of Information Act request.
Records held by agencies including the FBI and DEA are part of the wider dispute.
The litigation concerns access to government records, not a criminal conviction against Tinubu.
A court order requiring agencies to process or release records does not establish that allegations contained in those records are true.
US law allows agencies to withhold or redact information covered by specific FOIA exemptions.
Judge Beryl Howell has set August 21, 2026, as a new deadline in the latest stage of the case.
President Tinubu has joined the request for additional time, according to recent reporting.
Any released documents will need to be examined in their full legal and historical context.

Final Word

The Tinubu US records case is ultimately a legal dispute over access to federal government information, but its political significance extends well beyond the courtroom.

The FBI, DEA and DOJ records being sought could provide additional historical information, but their release should not be interpreted automatically as proof of any allegation against the Nigerian President.

For now, the next major development is the August 21 deadline set by the US court. What happens after that deadline could determine whether more documents become publicly available and how the long-running records dispute progresses.

As the case develops, readers should rely on court documents, official statements and the contents of any released records rather than political claims or unverified social media reports.

Editor’s Note: This article distinguishes between allegations, investigative records and established judicial findings. The Bureau Journal will update the report as verified court documents or official records become available.

olaric:
Yes, this is true. Hopefully, things don't take long before they are back to being normal.