₦airaland Forum

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has claimed that striking Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei would not escalate the conflict in the Middle East but instead bring it to an end.

Netanyahu made the controversial remarks during an interview with ABC News on Monday, saying that previous U.S. concerns about targeting Iran's leadership were misplaced.

"It’s not going to escalate the conflict, it’s going to end the conflict," he said, alluding to reports that former U.S. President Donald Trump had rejected similar suggestions out of fear of provoking further instability.

The Israeli leader blamed Tehran for decades of unrest, stating, "We’ve had half a century of conflict spread by this regime that terrorises everyone in the Middle East… What Israel is doing is preventing this, bringing an end to this aggression."

When asked if Israel would directly target Ayatollah Khamenei, Netanyahu responded cryptically, "I’m not going to get into the details, but we’ve targeted their top nuclear scientists. It’s basically Hitler’s nuclear team."

The interview comes amid escalating violence between the two regional rivals. On Monday, Iran fired another round of missiles at northern Israel, triggering air raid sirens throughout the region.

In retaliation, Iranian state media warned of what it described as "the largest and most intense missile attack in history on Israeli soil."

As tensions soar, Netanyahu reaffirmed Israel’s commitment to defending its sovereignty: "We can only do so by standing up to the forces of evil. We’re doing what we need to do."

The global community watches closely as fears of a broader regional war loom over the already volatile Middle East.

By Andrew Haruna | Abuja, FCT

Senator Adams Oshiomhole, representing Edo North, has accused Nigerian airline AirPeace of unethical behavior after a dramatic scene unfolded at the Abuja airport last week, drawing widespread attention on social media and beyond.

Speaking out on Channels TV live, Oshiomhole explained that the confrontation arose when AirPeace personnel allegedly barred him and other passengers from boarding a flight, despite having already checked in via the airline’s mobile app.

According to the former Edo State Governor, the airline's gate agents refused to honour digital check-ins and insisted passengers pay exorbitant fees to board flights they had already paid for.

“In fact, a woman who had paid ₦146,000 for her ticket was asked to pay an additional ₦109,000 to fly, despite having already checked in online,” Oshiomhole disclosed.

The senator further alleged that once the AirPeace staff recognized him as a government official, they attempted to isolate him from the other affected passengers by offering him special treatment—a gesture he refused.

"Contrary to rumours making round in the public domain that his security personnel blocked the entrance and disrupting the activities of the airline, the senator revealed that he came to the section of the airport alone".

“They called the manager who offered to help me alone while leaving the rest of the passengers stranded,” he said. “But I told them I couldn’t accept that kind of shady offer. I have my integrity.”

Oshiomhole said many of the stranded passengers pleaded with him not to abandon them, prompting him to speak up on their behalf.

He accused the airline of misleading the public in its statement regarding the incident, stating that AirPeace failed to admit the underhanded treatment and attempted compromise.

The senator also used the opportunity to criticize the airline’s punctuality, saying he had previously stopped flying with them due to their repeated delays and poor service ethics.

“AirPeace doesn’t keep to time. That’s one of the reasons I stopped flying with them,” he said.

The incident has sparked public debate around passenger rights, airline accountability, and the need for greater regulation in Nigeria’s aviation sector. Neither AirPeace nor the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has released an official follow-up statement as of the time of this report.

Global oil markets reacted sharply on Friday after Israel launched a widescale military offensive against Iran, triggering retaliatory threats from Tehran and fueling fears of a broader Middle East conflict that could impact oil supply routes.

Brent crude futures surged by $5.1, representing a 7.4% jump to trade at $74.46 per barrel by 08:43 GMT. Earlier in the day, it reached an intraday peak of $78.50—the highest since January 27.

Similarly, U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude also spiked by $5.1, climbing 7.5% to $73.15 per barrel after briefly touching $77.62—its strongest level since January 21.

These are the largest single-day intraday gains in both benchmarks since 2022, when Russia's invasion of Ukraine rattled global energy markets.

Israel claimed responsibility for the targeted attacks, stating that the strikes focused on Iran’s nuclear facilities, ballistic missile development sites, and military leadership. The country emphasized that the operation is the beginning of a sustained campaign to stop Tehran from acquiring nuclear weapons.

Iran confirmed that its nuclear facility in Natanz had suffered damage. According to Iran’s Atomic Energy Organization, investigations are ongoing, but there is no evidence of chemical or radioactive contamination outside the site.

As tensions rise, market analysts are closely watching for any moves that could threaten the Strait of Hormuz—a critical chokepoint through which nearly 20% of the world’s oil passes.

The global energy sector is now on high alert as fears of prolonged conflict and possible sanctions weigh heavily on future oil supply stability.

By Safiyat Muhammed

Abuja – June 11, 2025
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has said the All Progressives Congress (APC) is ready to welcome the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, whenever he decides to join the ruling party.

The President made the remarks on Wednesday while commissioning the Arterial Road N16 (Shehu Shagari Way), a major infrastructure project connecting Ring Road 1 (Nnamdi Azikiwe Way) to Arterial Road N20 (Wole Soyinka Way), in Maitama District, Abuja. The project was executed under the Wike-led FCT Administration.

Praising the minister’s performance, Tinubu said,

“He could not achieve this alone without your full cooperation as a team builder and player. You have proved that teamwork is the hallmark of good leadership.”

President Tinubu acknowledged the cooperation of traditional rulers and communities, particularly in ensuring peaceful relocation and compensation of those affected by the development.

“The government has played its part. I urge you to protect this infrastructure and use it wisely.”

Addressing Wike’s political alignment humorously, Tinubu remarked:

“He’s not a member of my party, not yet. But the day he changes his mind and registers with the Progressives, we will welcome him because we will enjoy him singing as ‘e dey sweet us.’”

Describing the road project as critical to the Renewed Hope Agenda, Tinubu stated:

“What was once a missing link is now a modern, functional, and durable infrastructure… this is the product of visionary leadership.”

He added that the road will ease traffic in Central Abuja and boost access to key districts like Katampe, Jahi, and Bwari, spurring both housing and commercial development.

Reinforcing his administration’s developmental focus, the President declared:

“Infrastructure is the bedrock of national competitiveness, growth, and opportunity. We can only unlock Nigeria’s full potential through coordinated and integrated development.”

FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, while speaking at the event, thanked the President for restoring public confidence in government projects, stating that contractor commitment had improved under Tinubu’s leadership.

“This road was awarded by your administration in September 2023 and flagged off the following month. By the time you mark your third anniversary, most of the projects you awarded will be completed.”

Wike stressed the strategic importance of Arterial Road N16, which connects judicial and administrative zones including the Court of Appeal, Federal High Court, and judges’ quarters.

He also spoke on the visibility of the administration’s achievements:

“Your good works have defeated the coalition. Every TV station must air your project inaugurations for the next 17 days. They’ll have no choice but to watch Mr. President.”

In his technical brief, Engr. Richard Yunana Dauda, Acting Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), described the 3.7-kilometre road as a six-lane dual carriageway with two additional parking lanes.

The road includes an interchange, flyovers, drainage systems, telecom ducts, sewer and water networks, and modern lighting, linking Maitama, Utako, Jahi, and surrounding districts.

“The project is practically completed and ready for use. It enhances connectivity and boosts development within 21 Abuja districts,” Dauda concluded.

By Safiyat Muhammed
The Bureau Newspaper

Abuja, Nigeria – The Nigeria Renaissance Group (NRG), a prominent pro-democracy civil rights organization, has issued a stern warning to Nigerians—particularly the youth—about an alleged covert plot to stage blackmail-driven protests aimed at discrediting key officials in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

In a statement released on Tuesday, the NRG revealed that it had uncovered a coordinated plan to stage non-organic protests masked as civic uprisings, but allegedly designed to embarrass and malign top government figures.

The group specifically named the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Chief Lateef Fagbemi, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Chief George Akume, the President of the Senate, Obong Godswill Akpabio, and the Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede as the main targets of the purported smear campaign.

According to the NRG, the protests are not grassroots expressions of public discontent, but rather “a malicious orchestration” intended to destabilize governance and manipulate public perception. The group stressed that these acts serve no genuine democratic cause and are counterproductive to national development.

NRG Urges Vigilance and Lawful Engagement

Comrade Mohammed Lawal, spokesperson for the group, called on security agencies nationwide to stay alert and ensure law and order during the anticipated demonstrations. He emphasized the group’s support for peaceful and constructive protest, while denouncing any action rooted in blackmail, misinformation, or character assassination.

“We unequivocally support peaceful protests that are genuinely rooted in good intentions and a desire for constructive change,” Lawal said. “However, we categorically reject attempts to undermine key government officials through calculated deception.”

Lawal also cautioned Nigeria’s youth to be vigilant and resist the influence of individuals who have turned against the very system that once empowered them. He urged young Nigerians to pursue dialogue and patriotic advocacy rather than be used as pawns in political vendettas.

Protest Rights Must Uphold National Unity

While acknowledging the constitutional right to protest, the NRG reiterated that such actions must uphold national unity, integrity, and respect for democratic institutions. The organization condemned the weaponization of protests for political mischief or public manipulation.

As June 12 approaches—a day symbolic of Nigeria’s democratic struggle—the NRG called on all Nigerians to reflect on the sacrifices of past heroes and avoid actions that could jeopardize the nation's fragile unity.

The group pledged to continue monitoring developments and updating the public as the situation unfolds.

By Abdullahi Tukur
The Bureau Newspaper | June 8, 2025

Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State – A devastating fire engulfed the popular Wood and Timber Market, locally known as Kara Market, in the early hours of Sunday, razing dozens of shops and destroying property worth millions of naira.

Eyewitnesses reported that the fire started unexpectedly and spread rapidly through the market before emergency responders and firefighters could arrive. The extent of the damage is still being assessed, but traders say the loss is massive.

Despite the intensity of the blaze, no lives were lost.

In response to the incident, the Deputy Governor of Kebbi State visited the scene on behalf of the state government, where he donated ₦10 million to support affected traders and help them begin the process of recovery.

“We deeply sympathize with the victims of this unfortunate disaster,” he said. “The state government is committed to supporting them as they recover from their losses.”

The cause of the fire remains unknown at the time of this report, though investigations are ongoing.

A somber Eid-el-Kabir celebration turned tragic in Ilorin West Local Government Area after a 43-year-old man, identified as Kareem, was confirmed dead on Friday after reportedly jumping into a well under the influence of a hard drug locally known as “Colorado.”

The incident took place in the Ile Alapo area of Edun, shortly after the man returned from Eid prayers. According to the Kwara State Fire Service, a distress call was received at exactly 10:29 a.m., prompting a swift emergency response to the scene.

In a statement released on Saturday by the Head of Media and Publicity for the Fire Service, Hassan Adekunle, the deceased was believed to have consumed the synthetic drug, which may have altered his mental state and judgment.

“The victim, identified as Kareem, reportedly jumped into a domestic well under the influence of a substance known as ‘Colo’ (Colorado), shortly after observing the Eid prayer,” Adekunle stated.

Firefighters successfully retrieved the lifeless body from the well. The remains were later handed over to Inspector Babatunde Amos of the C Division of the Nigeria Police Force, Ilorin.

The Fire Service noted that formal identification and claims by the deceased’s family were still pending as of the time of filing this report.

Attempts to reach the Public Relations Officer of the Kwara State Police Command, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, for further comment were unsuccessful, as calls and messages went unanswered.

This incident adds to growing concerns about the increasing abuse of synthetic substances like Colorado in Nigerian communities and the mental health risks associated with their consumption.

“These are not mere aspirations but milestones already in progress,” he emphasized.

“This project is a manifestation of what becomes possible when institutions tackle African problems with African solutions,” he stated.

“With a medical and nursing school in the pipeline and partnerships with international institutions like King’s College London and the University of Wisconsin, AMCE will train a new generation of African health professionals who will thrive locally rather than migrate abroad,” the President said.

“Acting on actionable intelligence, NAF aircraft delivered accurate strikes on key Boko Haram facilities used for logistics and operational planning. The strikes neutralized several terrorists and destroyed critical infrastructure,” the statement read.

This year’s Eid-el-Kabir celebration in Kano State took on a dramatic tone as two rival monarchs, Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero and Khalifa Muhammadu Sanusi II, led parallel Eid prayers in a deepening tussle for the Emir of Kano throne.

Two Emirs, Two Prayers, One City

Alhaji Ado Bayero, who was deposed in May but later reinstated through a court order, observed Eid prayers at the Nassarawa mini palace under tight security presence. The sermon at his congregation was delivered by Sarkin Malamai, Malam Kamalu Inuwa, who called on worshippers to embrace the values of sacrifice, patience, and unity, following the example of Prophet Ibrahim (AS).

Simultaneously, Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II, reinstated by the Kano State Government, led a large congregation at the Kofar Mata Central Eid Ground, flanked by key government officials including Deputy Governor Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo, members of the state executive council, and top traditional titleholders.

In his sermon, Sanusi urged the people of Kano to work together to tackle growing insecurity, with a particular focus on the rise of youth gang violence in the state.

“We must not allow violence and disunity to destroy the legacy of peace our forefathers established in Kano,” the emir declared.
“A good upbringing begins at home. Parents must take full responsibility in guiding their children away from criminality.”

Peaceful Celebrations Amid Tensions

Despite the tense backdrop, Eid celebrations across Kano were peaceful, with security agencies strategically deployed at major prayer grounds to maintain order and prevent clashes.

The dual congregations underscore the unresolved leadership crisis in the ancient Kano Emirate, where legal proceedings and political maneuverings continue to reshape the power struggle between traditional rulers and the state.

Analysts warn that unless a definitive resolution is reached, the emirship standoff could have lasting implications on both institutional stability and public trust in the emirate’s leadership.

By Andrew Haruna
June 6, 2025 | Lagos, Nigeria

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commissioned the Lekki Deep Sea Port Access Road in Lagos State, constructed under Nigeria’s Tax Credit Scheme, as he reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to transformative infrastructure development across the country — including strategic road projects in Northern Nigeria.

Speaking during the inauguration ceremony, President Tinubu emphasized that transport infrastructure is the “lifeblood of economic development,” stating that roads constructed under the Renewed Hope Agenda are aimed at strengthening regional connectivity, facilitating trade, and boosting national productivity.

“From Lagos to Kano, Warri to Zaria, this administration is laying down a new architecture of growth,” President Tinubu declared. “Our roads must reflect the scale of our ambition.”

The Lekki Port Road: A Key Trade Artery

The newly inaugurated concrete road connects the Lekki Deep Sea Port, one of West Africa’s most modern maritime terminals, with the hinterland and existing logistics networks. It is designed to ensure seamless movement of goods, reduce traffic congestion, and lower transportation costs — particularly for agricultural exports and manufactured goods.

The road was delivered through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) under the Federal Government’s Tax Credit Scheme, which allows corporate entities to invest in public infrastructure in exchange for tax rebates. Tinubu lauded the scheme as a model of “effective private-sector collaboration for national growth.”

Renewed Focus on Northern Nigeria

The President also announced the rollout of critical infrastructure projects in the North, signaling his government’s intention to bridge the infrastructure gap nationwide. Some of the key projects include:

Kano–Kongolam Road (Section II)

Kano–Kanwar–Danja–Hadejia Road

Yakasai–Zalli Road

Several rural access roads to link remote farming communities with urban markets

These projects, Tinubu noted, will improve farm-to-market access, support food security, and integrate rural economies into the national grid.

He further assured that ongoing federal infrastructure projects such as the Abuja–Kaduna–Kano Expressway, Benin–Warri Road, and multiple federal bridges will receive expedited attention in the coming months.

“Whether in the North, South, East, or West, we are building roads that connect not just communities but destinies,” Tinubu affirmed.

The President concluded by reiterating that infrastructure development under his leadership is national in scope, designed to drive inclusive growth, promote unity, and lay the foundation for a modern Nigerian economy.

helinues:
Noise pollution saved

“We haven’t heard anything definitive from the DSS. They’re still holding him. When we last visited their Abuja office, only his wife was allowed to see him. She was told not to worry — that he’d be released soon,” a family member said.

Aumon:
Sadly enough, the poor in Nigeria doesn't know there is an automatic plot to keep them down forever, in the name of politics

By Abdullahi Tukur
Date: June 3, 2025
Location: Kebbi State

The Governor of Kebbi State, Comrade Nasir Idris, has donated ₦30,000 each to 11,220 women across the state in celebration of Eid-el-Kabir, as part of his administration's welfare initiative.

The donation, disbursed through the state leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC), targeted three women from each of the 3,347 polling units across Kebbi State.

The disbursement took place at the APC headquarters in Birnin Kebbi, where the State Party Chairman, Alhaji Abubakar Kana-Zuru, praised Governor Idris for his generous and people-centered leadership.

"We must appreciate God Almighty for blessing us with a leader that cares for his people. It takes leaders with a large heart to do what our Comrade Governor is doing,” Kana-Zuru said.

He further urged the beneficiaries to make wise and productive use of the financial support for their own upliftment.

Responding on behalf of the women, Hajiya Maimuna Mohammed Kalgo, a beneficiary from Kalgo Local Government Area, expressed heartfelt appreciation to the governor. She hailed the initiative as a first-of-its-kind in the political history of Kebbi State.

“We are grateful for this new innovation. It has never happened like this before,” she added.

Governor Idris' gesture is seen as a significant move toward economic empowerment and inclusive governance, especially during festive periods that often place financial strain on low-income families.

“Our attention has been drawn to a purported breaking news report tagged ‘APC Grants Automatic Tickets to All National Assembly Members’ in viral circulation,” Morka stated.

“The report is FAKE NEWS and should be disregarded in its entirety as it did not emanate from our great Party.”

Kdon2:
Kogi state is a haven for terrorists long before now. Their kind of Islam is worse than that of kwara.

The Nigeria Police Force has raised an urgent security alert over a credible terrorist threat targeting churches in Yagba East Local Government Area of Kogi State. The intelligence has prompted a call for immediate action by religious leaders and heightened security measures across the region.

In a confidential memo dated May 20, 2025, and signed by Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Kanwai James, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Isanlu, the police advised the local chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) to suspend all-night services and intensify internal security.

The document, now circulating among church leaders, reveals that criminal elements operating in Yagba East and Yagba West have concluded plans to carry out coordinated attacks on worship centres at any time.

“In view of that, you are hereby informed to intensify efforts in disseminating the information to all churches in Yagba East to be vigilant and security conscious in order to avert their nefarious activities,” the statement reads.

Churches have been advised to suspend night vigils and deploy internal security teams, including the Boys Brigade and other volunteer groups, during services. The directive emphasizes the need for immediate vigilance and activation of all safety protocols.

The Police, in collaboration with the Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), vigilantes, and local hunters, have reportedly begun intensified surveillance and patrol operations, especially during worship hours.

Efforts to reach CSP Kanwai for further clarification were unsuccessful, as calls to his phone went unanswered.

The alert comes amid a disturbing rise in kidnappings and violent crimes across the Okun region in Kogi West. Notably, a 90-year-old traditional ruler and a 76-year-old retired army major are still in captivity following recent abductions.

Residents are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the nearest security agency.

Odo-Ape, Kabba-Bunu LGA, Kogi State | May 22, 2025
By Safiyat Muhammed

Unidentified gunmen have kidnapped 76-year-old retired Nigerian Army Major, Pastor Joe Ajayi, from his residence in Odo-Ape, Kabba-Bunu Local Government Area of Kogi State, triggering fresh fears over rising insecurity in Okunland.

Ajayi, who previously served as the Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Kabba-Bunu chapter, was reportedly abducted around 11:30 p.m. on Wednesday night, as armed attackers stormed the community and opened fire sporadically for over an hour before taking him away to an undisclosed location.

According to local eyewitnesses, the traumatic incident left residents terrified, with many fleeing their homes during the sustained gunfire.

Community members have voiced grave concern over the health condition of the abducted cleric, who is said to be battling age-related ailments that could be worsened by the trauma and conditions of captivity.

The abduction has sent shockwaves through the community, which has already been grappling with a string of high-profile kidnappings in recent months. The Okun Development Association (ODA) had earlier raised alarms about the escalating wave of insecurity in Okunland, citing recent abductions—including the kidnapping of a first-class traditional ruler in Okoloke, Yagba West LGA.

In a previous statement, the ODA urged both federal and state governments, as well as security agencies, to take immediate and coordinated action to halt the menace of kidnapping in the region.

“This latest abduction only reinforces our fears that the Okun-speaking parts of Kogi State are increasingly under siege. We can no longer live like this,” a concerned community member told The Bureau Newspaper.

This is not the first incident this year. In earlier cases, a council member was kidnapped from his home, and days later, three individuals and a child were abducted from a farm—all within the same region.

So far, there has been no official statement from security agencies or the Kogi State Government regarding Ajayi’s abduction.

Former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, has firmly debunked circulating reports suggesting he is preparing to contest for Nigeria’s presidency in 2027.

In a post obtained from his official Facebook page by The Bureau Newspaper, Bello described the news as fake and the handiwork of “mischief makers.”

“Please disregard fake news by mischief makers. My support for our dear President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu is 100% unwavering for 2027 and beyond,” Bello wrote in the post. “God bless the All Progressives Congress, APC. God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria 🇳🇬.”

The clarification comes on the heels of earlier media reports claiming that youths in Anambra State had staged a massive rally in support of Bello’s purported 2027 presidential ambition. However, the former governor has outrightly denied having any such political plans, stating that his loyalty remains with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the APC.

The former governor’s statement is seen as a strategic move to quell rumors and reinforce party unity ahead of the 2027 general elections. Yahaya Bello served as governor of Kogi State from 2016 to 2024 and has remained a prominent figure within the APC since leaving office.

Political analysts suggest that Bello's declaration may be aimed at dispelling distractions and affirming his continued loyalty to the party and its leader.

The Tiv Area Traditional Council has issued a strong call to the Benue State Government under Governor Hyacinth Alia to urgently facilitate the peaceful withdrawal of herders from farmlands across the Tiv Kingdom, warning of a looming food crisis if farming activities remain suspended.

This decision was reached at an emergency meeting held at the Palace of the Tor Tiv in Gboko and presided over by His Royal Majesty, Prof. James Ayatse. The Council directed traditional and political leaders across all Tiv local government areas to commence peaceful dialogues with herders to ensure their orderly exit from affected communities.

In a communiqué signed by the Council Secretary, Mr. Shinyi Tyozua, the traditional institution set a deadline for all herders to vacate Tiv lands by the end of May 2025. The council warned that failure to act swiftly could trigger widespread hunger and economic setbacks in Benue State and beyond.

“Agricultural activities have come to a standstill in many areas due to herders occupying farmlands and violent attacks forcing farmers to flee,” the Council stated.


The most affected local government areas identified include Kwande, Katsina-Ala, Logo, Ukum, Guma, Makurdi, Gwer West, Gwer East, and Buruku. These communities, the Council noted, have seen a sharp decline in farming as a result of ongoing insecurity and the occupation of lands by armed herders.

The Tor Tiv and the Council stressed the importance of avoiding conflict while reclaiming farmlands, urging the government to act decisively but peacefully to protect the livelihoods of thousands of farming households across the state.

The Tiv Traditional Council’s intervention comes as food prices continue to surge across Nigeria amid worsening security challenges and supply disruptions in key agricultural regions.

“A total of two billion, two hundred and forty million naira has been paid to secure the certificates of the students who have waited for over five years,” the statement reads.

Barely a week to the second anniversary of the Bola Ahmed Tinubu presidency and Comrade Governor Nasir Idris' administration in Kebbi State, top stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) have endorsed both leaders for re-election in the 2027 general elections.

The endorsement was announced at a high-level stakeholders’ forum held in Birnin Kebbi. According to Abdullahi Idris Zuru, the decision appears final and may effectively rule out any internal contest for the party’s presidential and gubernatorial tickets in the state.

The forum also marked the official reception of three former Senators from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) — Senator Muhammad Adamu Aliero (Kebbi Central), Dr. Yahaya Abdullahi (Kebbi North), and Senator Garba Musa Maidoki (Kebbi South) — who recently defected to the APC. The event also witnessed the inauguration of a new political movement, “TINUBU and KAURA 2 Terms,” aimed at galvanizing grassroots support ahead of 2027.

The historic meeting was attended by prominent APC leaders including former governors and their deputies, members of the National and State Executive Committees, sitting and former lawmakers, board members of federal and state agencies, business leaders, and religious figures.

As part of the event, an expansive Mobilisation Council was inaugurated to lead the campaign strategy for the 2027 elections. Governor Nasir Idris noted that the council’s formation would foster unity within the party and ensure a coordinated approach to securing landslide victories across all levels.

The council is chaired by Alhaji Abubakar Mallam Shettiman Gwandu, the Managing Director of Sokoto Rima River Basin Development Authority (SRRBDA), who was appointed grand patron. Other patrons include sitting National Assembly members and respected party elders, while an Executive Committee and a Director-General were also named.

Governor Idris warned that the Mobilisation Council and the party's State Executive Committee must work in synergy and not in competition, emphasizing unity as a prerequisite for success.

Several speakers at the forum cited massive infrastructure achievements and economic improvements as compelling reasons for the re-election of Tinubu and Idris. Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, noted that Kebbi had already endorsed the two leaders during a February 2025 “thank you” rally — a model that was later adopted by the APC North West chapter in Kaduna.

Senator Yahaya Abdullahi, one of the returning APC chieftains, praised Tinubu and Governor Idris for their respect and inclusiveness, saying their leadership motivated his return.

In his remarks, Alhaji Abubakar Mallam, the grand patron of the TINUBU/KAURA Two Terms movement, urged party members not to be complacent, warning against overconfidence despite widespread support and defections in their favour.

He expressed strong confidence in the APC’s chances in 2027, citing the administration’s performance and the trust of Kebbi people as a solid foundation for electoral victory.

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has announced plans to conduct a mop-up examination for candidates who missed the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), offering them a second chance to participate in the national test.

This was disclosed by the Registrar of JAMB, Professor Ishaq Oloyede, during a high-level stakeholders meeting held in Abuja to address reported challenges from the just-concluded exercise.

According to the Registrar, over five percent of registered candidates were unable to sit for the UTME due to a range of issues, including technical failures, late arrivals, and other unforeseen circumstances. The mop-up exam will serve as a remedy to ensure no candidate is left behind.

“We are taking immediate steps to organise a nationwide mop-up examination. This is a tradition we have upheld over the years to accommodate those who, for one reason or another, missed their exam date,” Prof. Oloyede said.

He emphasised that even candidates who were marked as absent during the initial examination window would be eligible for the mop-up, dismissing criticisms about the rescheduling process.

“Some people question why we are moving so quickly to address this. But they are unaware of the urgency. After UTME, we have WAEC, then NECO and NABTEB. These exams follow in quick succession, and many students sit for multiple exams. There is no time to waste,” the Registrar explained.

Professor Oloyede also reaffirmed JAMB’s commitment to integrity and fairness, adding that the examination body remains focused on providing equal opportunities for all candidates.

He condemned what he described as “uninformed commentary” regarding his emotional display during the exam crisis, clarifying that it reflected deep concern, not weakness.

“Leadership demands responsibility and empathy. We are here to solve problems, not to play politics,” he said firmly.

JAMB has not yet announced the exact date for the mop-up exam, but candidates who missed the 2025 UTME are advised to stay updated through official JAMB communication channels.

“They came in the night, heavily armed, and went straight to Pa Durojaiye’s house. The whole place was thrown into chaos,” said a local resident who asked to remain anonymous.

Dr. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, the 2023 presidential candidate of the New Nigerian Peoples Party (NNPP), has denied reports suggesting that he is planning to defect to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Reacting via a statement posted on his verified X (formerly Twitter) handle @KwankwasoRM, the former Governor of Kano State described the claims as false, mischievous, and a deliberate political fabrication aimed at misleading the public.

“My attention has been drawn to a statement purportedly stating my position on the recurring political realignments. I wish to categorically state that such statements are false, unfounded, and products of political mischief,” he said.

He stressed that he has refrained from commenting on contemporary political issues and will continue to do so for now.

The rumour alleged that Kwankwaso met President Bola Tinubu several times and was urged to return to the APC. However, Kwankwaso clarified he has reached no such resolution with anyone or any political party.

Kwankwaso further warned the public to ignore unofficial statements allegedly made on his behalf.

“I urge the public to only engage statements that come from my public handles and other official sources,” he emphasized.

In a related twist, Ibrahim Rabiu, the author of the viral statement falsely attributed to Kwankwaso, has publicly apologized. He admitted he was not authorized to speak for the politician and called the act a “childish mistake.”

“I was misled by fake news and agents of misinformation. I therefore tender a public apology to Sen. Kwankwaso,” Rabiu said in a follow-up statement.

This incident has sparked renewed concern about the spread of fake news and unauthorized political statements on social media, especially in the buildup to potential future realignments within Nigeria’s political landscape.

“It is a painful moment for all of us. The situation remains tense as we await confirmation,” he said.