News

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially removed the National Working Committee (NWC) of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) led by David Mark from its official portal, following a detailed review of a recent Court of Appeal ruling.

The Commission disclosed that its decision, reached at a meeting on March 31, 2026, was necessitated by conflicting legal communications from two factions within the party—one supporting Nafiu Bala Gombe and the other backing the Mark-led leadership.

According to INEC, the crisis stems from the resignation of the ADC’s former leadership in July 2025, which led to the emergence of a new executive committee under Mark. Gombe, a former vice-national chairman, has challenged this development, insisting on his right to assume leadership based on the party’s constitution.

In a ruling delivered on March 12, 2026, the Court of Appeal dismissed an interlocutory appeal filed by Mark and ordered all parties to maintain the status quo ante bellum pending the determination of a substantive suit before the Federal High Court in Abuja. The appellate court also directed an accelerated hearing of the case.

INEC stated that in strict compliance with the court’s directive, it declined to recognize Gombe as acting national chairman and suspended all dealings with any faction of the party, including monitoring meetings, congresses, or conventions, until the legal dispute is resolved.

The Commission noted that the removal of the Mark-led NWC from its portal was necessary to preserve the status quo, as the leadership had been uploaded after the suit was already instituted.

Reaffirming its commitment to neutrality and adherence to judicial orders, INEC urged political actors to avoid actions that could jeopardize preparations for the 2027 general elections. The leadership tussle within the ADC remains before the Federal High Court in Abuja, where a final determination is expected in due course.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has marked the first anniversary of its Corporate Social Responsibility programme, known as ‘Customs Cares’, with the commissioning of a major project at Government Secondary School, Wuse, Abuja.

The Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, performed the ceremony on Tuesday, 31 March 2026, in the presence of students, teachers and other stakeholders.

Speaking at the event, Adeniyi said the decision to adopt the school under the CSR framework has yielded positive results, especially in academic performance and the learning environment.

“What we have seen here today shows clearly that we did not make a mistake in adopting this school. The performance by the students reflects the impact of what has been done,” CGC Adeniyi said.

He explained that the intervention goes beyond physical structures. He noted that it has opened up opportunities for students to interact, discover their talents and improve academically.

“This is not just about infrastructure. It is about creating opportunities for young people to grow, interact and build confidence for the future,” he said.

The Customs boss also praised the school management for identifying key areas of need early. He said this helped the Service to focus on infrastructure and security improvements.

He stated that the Service renovated important facilities and installed solar-powered lighting to enhance safety within the school.

“This is a promise made and a promise kept. We are pleased that the project has been delivered on time and to the benefit of the students,” Adeniyi said.

Adeniyi advised students to make good use of the new facilities. He stressed the importance of building communication and public speaking skills for future success.

“You must take advantage of what has been provided here. These facilities are meant to help you discover yourselves and prepare for greater responsibilities ahead,” he added.

He also highlighted the need to maintain the facilities. He warned that many public projects fail due to poor maintenance. He called on the Federal Capital Territory Administration to consider partnerships that will support long-term upkeep.

“Our office remains open for further collaboration, but we must ensure that what has been provided is properly sustained,” he said.

Earlier, the Comptroller in charge of the Customs Cares Unit, Patience Ibrahim, said the event celebrated both the initiative’s first anniversary and the delivery of one of its key projects.

She said the programme was designed to address development needs in communities where the Service operates.

“In just one year, the initiative has grown into a recognised platform for delivering impactful projects across the country, and this intervention reflects the Service’s commitment to education as a driver of national development,” she said.

The Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Territory Education Board, Danlami Hayyo, described the project as a strong example of institutional collaboration. He said it shows a clear commitment to the future of students.

“This intervention goes beyond infrastructure. It represents a commitment to the future of these students and to the broader goal of sustainable development,” he said.

Hayyo commended the NCS for extending its efforts to key sectors such as education, health and the environment. He added that the initiative creates room for stronger cooperation with the education sector.

The Principal of Government Secondary School, Wuse, Josephine Ugwu, said the project marks an important milestone in the school’s partnership with the Customs Service.

She listed the components of the intervention to include the renovation of the multi-purpose hall, installation of CCTV cameras, provision of solar-powered streetlights and distribution of learning materials.

“These facilities have transformed our environment. The hall will now serve as a centre for learning, cultural activities and talent development,” she said.

Ugwu said the project will have a lasting effect on students and improve the sense of community within the school.

Activities at the event included a basketball match between the Nigeria Customs Service team and students of the school.

The Customs Comptroller-General and his team also planted trees alongside officials of the Federal Capital Territory Secondary Education Board and other invited guests.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

A member of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), who spent 70 days in the hands of kidnappers, has been released, a family source confirmed.

Recall that initial efforts to secure his freedom included a ransom payment of ₦10 million, which failed to lead to his release. Subsequently, two motorcycles were also delivered to the captors, yet they still refused to let him go.

However, following the payment of an additional ₦3.5 million, the victim was finally set free, an outcome his family describes as divine intervention.

“ALHAMDULILLAH: God saved him from the hands of bandits,” a family source said, expressing relief after the ordeal.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

An atmosphere of fear has gripped Jos, Plateau State, as students of the University of Jos (UNIJOS) and nearby residents raise alarm over threats to their safety following renewed unrest in parts of the city.

Concerns have intensified with reports that some students are unable to leave the campus and their hostels due to the violence. This has led to urgent appeals for security agencies to step in and ensure their protection.

A social media user, Rhoda Nanre, circulated a distress message that urged Nigerians to draw the attention of top authorities to the situation. “We are calling on all friends and comrades to tag the Nigerian president and IGP to urgently send protection to Jos especially UNIJOS NOW!!!! They are so scared,” she wrote.

The University of Jos Alumni Association also issued a statement on Wednesday, April 1, 2026. The statement was signed by its Global President, Gad Peter Shamaki. It expressed concern over the rising tension affecting students, staff, and residents within Jos North Local Government Area. “The University of Jos Alumni Association expresses deep concern over the recent rise in tension and reported threats affecting students, staff and the broader university community within Jos North Local Government Area,” the statement read.

The association called on the Plateau State Government and security agencies to increase protection across campuses, student hostels, and residential areas. It also urged authorities to secure major routes used by students and staff. “We specifically request round-the-clock patrols, intelligence-led surveillance, and rapid response units to ensure that any potential threats are proactively addressed and swiftly neutralized,” the statement added.

Students have been advised to remain indoors, stay alert, and report suspicious activities as events continue to unfold.

A Jos-based media outlet, JayFM, also highlighted the urgency of the situation. It reported the need for security deployment around the university, especially near the students’ village hostel. “There’s the need for urgent security deployment to the University of Jos environment, precisely the students village hostel. This followed a distress call by students who appear to be stranded in the face of provocation by some hoodlums,” the report stated.

The tension follows earlier incidents in Anguwan Rukuba area of Jos North, where a church was attacked by suspected youths. Witnesses described panic as violence broke out, with residents fleeing for safety. The unrest is linked to a previous deadly attack earlier in the week.

Although security personnel were later deployed, some residents and community leaders criticised what they described as a slow response and insufficient protection.

Reports indicate that violence has spread to several parts of Jos. Eyewitnesses said armed youths took control of key areas, attacked residents and travellers, and destroyed properties. There are also claims that major entry and exit routes have been affected, with some travellers reportedly assaulted.

The situation has forced many residents to flee, as confusion and fear continue to grow across the city.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) have taken former Kaduna State governor, Nasir el-Rufai, into custody at the federal high court in Kaduna.

El-Rufai appeared in court on Wednesday after operatives of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) brought him forward for a hearing on his bail request.

The DSS later assumed custody of the former governor after the court adjourned its ruling on the bail application until April 14.

The ICPC had earlier arraigned el-Rufai alongside Joel Adoga on March 24 over allegations related to fraud and money laundering. Both defendants denied the charges when they were presented before the court.

After the session, Oluwole Iyamu, counsel to el-Rufai, expressed optimism about the outcome of the pending decision.

“The bail application was argued and responded to, and the ruling has been fixed for April 14. We look forward to that day. We are hopeful,” he said.

“We have put our arguments before the court, and this is a court of justice. We await the decision of the court.”

Iyamu also addressed another case involving the DSS, which is scheduled for April 10 at the federal high court in Abuja. He stated that the legal team is prepared for the proceedings.

“That is a separate matter. As lawyers, we are ready. We have filed all necessary processes and will be in court. That is the DSS matter,” he said.

Earlier in February, the DSS filed a three-count charge against el-Rufai over allegations of unlawful interception of a telephone conversation. The case followed remarks he made during a television interview.

While speaking on ‘Prime Time’, a programme on Arise Television, el-Rufai alleged that “someone wiretapped” Nuhu Ribadu’s phone, which allowed him to hear instructions from the National Security Adviser directing security operatives to arrest him.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has called for a significant strengthening of the long-standing partnership between the Nigeria Police Force and the Department of State Services (DSS), describing the agency as an “indispensable” ally in the nation’s security architecture.

During a courtesy visit to the DSS Headquarters in Abuja, IGP Disu emphasized that no major security operation can succeed without the involvement of the Service. He highlighted key areas of shared priority, including election security, counter-terrorism, the protection of very important personalities (VIPs), the fight against cybercrime, and economic sabotage.

“The DSS is an unseen but essential partner in our work,” the IGP stated. He made a strong appeal for the introduction of joint training initiatives aimed at boosting the operational capacity of both agencies and reaffirmed his commitment to deepening collaboration to enhance national stability.

In his response, the Director-General of the DSS expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the appointment of IGP Disu, praising the new police chief’s extensive experience and dedication. The DSS chief also commended the President for his administration’s ongoing efforts to renovate police training institutions across the country.

The DG expressed confidence that the IGP would build on the achievements of his predecessors and assured that the Service would maintain a steady flow of intelligence sharing and joint operations. He described the partnership between the two agencies as a “priceless national asset.”

IGP Disu concluded the visit by reiterating his resolve to foster closer cooperation, emphasizing that the synergy between the Police and the DSS is critical to safeguarding national security and promoting institutional harmony.

By Anas Abbas

The Deputy Senate President, Barau I. Jibrin, has welcomed the defection of eight members of the House of Representatives from the New Nigeria Peoples Party to the All Progressives Congress, describing the move as strategic and significant for the party’s growth.

The lawmakers were formally received during a gathering attended by prominent political figures, including the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen; the Governor of Kano State, Abba Kabir Yusuf; and the immediate past National Chairman of the APC, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, among others.

The Speaker announced the defections during plenary, listing the lawmakers as: Aliyu Sani Madaki (Dala), Ghali Mustapha (Ajingi/Albasu/Gaya), Shehu Muhammad Bello (Fagge), Dankawu Idris (Kumbotso), Hussain Hassan Shehu (Nassarawa), Rabiu Yusuf (Sumaila/Takai), Muhammad Garba Chiroma (Gezawa/Gabasawa), Ibrahim Mohammed (Gwale), and Tijjani Abdulkadir Jobe (Tofa/Dawakin-Tofa/Rimingado).

In a statement, Jibrin congratulated the defecting lawmakers, describing their decision as “bold and strategic.” He noted that their move would further strengthen the APC’s influence in Kano State and enhance the party’s commitment to good governance and effective representation.

According to him, the inclusion of the lawmakers whom he described as grassroots-oriented, experienced, and dedicated positions the APC to consolidate its leadership in the state ahead of future elections.

He expressed optimism that the party would achieve greater electoral success, emphasizing unity and collective efforts toward delivering dividends of democracy to the people.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has set a goal to reach 50,000 pupils nationwide under its Corporate Social Responsibility programme, “Customs Cares.”

Launched in 2025, “Customs Cares” aims to support education, healthcare, food security, environmental sustainability, social investment, and the creative economy.

At the programme’s first anniversary held on Tuesday at Government Secondary School, Wuse 3, Abuja, Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, noted that about 15,000 students have already benefited in its inaugural year.

“The programme demonstrates the Service’s resolve to contribute to national development beyond its core responsibilities,” Adeniyi said. He added, “The Service has set a target of reaching 50,000 pupils nationwide,” and reiterated that “about 15,000 students have already benefited within the first year of the programme.”

Adeniyi highlighted that the intervention has expanded beyond school infrastructure to address critical needs such as water supply in underserved communities, in alignment with sustainable development goals.

During the event, the NCS officially commissioned a renovated assembly hall, donated basketball kits and equipment to the school team, and carried out tree planting to promote environmental awareness. Adeniyi explained that the upgraded hall would enhance students’ confidence, creativity, and communication skills.

He also commended the students for their recent basketball victory over the Customs team and stressed the importance of improved learning facilities in shaping young people’s development. The Comptroller-General called for stronger collaboration among schools, government institutions, and private organisations to ensure proper maintenance and sustainability of public facilities.

Comptroller Mbwidiffu Ibrahim, Head of the Customs Cares CSR Unit, described the programme as a strategic response to community development needs, stating it “reflects deliberate investment in the future of young Nigerians and demonstrates the Service’s commitment to continuity, accountability, and measurable impact.”

Representing the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Secretary for Education Dr Danlami Hayyo commended NCS for prioritising education and urged the school to make effective use of the new facilities. Fatima Gambo Babba, Director and Secretary of the FCT Secondary Education Board, noted the initiative reflects growing collaboration between public institutions and the education sector.

The school Principal, Mrs Josephine Ugwu, expressed gratitude, stating that the programme, which includes CCTV cameras and solar-powered lighting, would significantly enhance teaching, learning, and overall school development.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The Minister of Transportation, Senator Saidu Alkali, formally resigned from President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet on Tuesday, paving the way for his anticipated entry into the race for the Gombe State governorship.

His exit, announced by the State House media office, came hours ahead of the March 31 deadline set by the President for political appointees nursing elective ambitions to step down.

Alkali, a native of Gombe State, met with President Tinubu at the Presidential Villa on Tuesday evening before finalizing his resignation. He is widely expected to contest for the state’s top seat in the 2027 general elections, aiming to succeed Governor Inuwa Yahaya, whose second term is set to conclude in May 2027.

The former minister’s departure adheres to a directive issued by the President through the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation on March 17, which mandated all appointees seeking public office to vacate their positions by the end of March.

By Anwar Usman

President Bola Tinubu has summoned the Governor of Plateau State, Caleb Mutfwang, to Abuja for  talks following the recent attack in Angwan Rukuba, Jos North.

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, made this known at a press briefing held on Tuesday in Abuja.

The munister conveyed condolences on behalf of the President and the Federal Government to the victims and their families stressing that swift and decisive actions are being taken to address the attack.

The address in part reads “Let me assure Nigerians that security agencies responded immediately to the incident. Troops under Operation Enduring Peace were rapidly mobilised to the scene following distress calls.

“The military and other security agencies cordoned off the affected area, secured key access routes, and launched targeted search-and-clearance operations to track down the perpetrators.

“These swift actions ensured that the situation was quickly contained and prevented further escalation,” Idris said.

The minister further explained that these actions form part of a broader federal strategy to maintain stability across Plateau State and the North-Central region.

“The Nigerian Armed Forces have continued to carry out clearance operations and intelligence-led missions across vulnerable communities following attacks recorded in recent months.

“Reinforced surveillance and troop deployments have also been implemented in high-risk areas, supported by joint military-police patrols and strengthened rapid response mechanisms.

Highlighting the President’s proactive engagement, the Minister revealed that President Tinubu had a meeting with top security intelligence officials to assess the situation.

“A few hours ago, President Bola Tinubu held a high-level meeting with the nation’s top security and intelligence chiefs to review the situation and take further decisive steps towards arriving at a lasting solution.

“Following this meeting, the Governor of Plateau State, Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has been invited by President Tinubu to further deliberate and chart a coordinated path towards lasting peace and security.

“The outcome of the meeting between President Tinubu and Governor Mutfwang will be made public in due course,” the minister stated.

The minister also called on citizens to remain calm and cooperate with security authorities, while avoiding the spread of unverified information that could escalate tensions.