News

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has issued a warning to Nigerians over a fraudulent social media account that is allegedly offering vehicles for auction.

In a statement released by the Service, it revealed that the attention of the agency had been drawn to the fake account, which is circulating online and misleading people with false claims of car sales.

The NCS dismissed the claims, stressing that it has no connection to the said account or the supposed auctions. It also clarified that the officer whose photograph appears on the platform is not involved in any vehicle sales on social media.

According to the Service, the account is a case of impersonation designed to deceive and defraud unsuspecting members of the public.

“The attention of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has been drawn to a fraudulent social media account currently circulating online, falsely conducting vehicle auctions.”

“The NCS wishes to state clearly that this claim is false and did not originate from the Service. The officer whose image is being used is not involved in any car sales on social media, and the account is an act of impersonation intended to defraud unsuspecting members of the public.”

The agency urged Nigerians to ignore such messages. It also advised the public not to send money to individuals behind the scheme and to report the account to relevant authorities for necessary action.

“Members of the public are strongly advised to disregard such messages, refrain from making any payments, and report the account for further action.”

The NCS further encouraged citizens to rely on its verified platforms for accurate information and updates.

“For reliable and factual information about NCS, please follow us on updates published through our official communication channels: Facebook: Nigeria Customs Service Instagram: @customsng TikTok: @customsng Threads: @customsng X: @customsng Website: www.customs.gov.ng”

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

President Paul Biya has appointed his son, Franck Emmanuel Biya, as Vice President of the Republic and Head of the Armed Forces, in a sweeping reshuffle that consolidates family control over Cameroon’s political and military hierarchy amid growing unrest.

A presidential decree dated 4 April 2026 formally elevated the younger Biya, who also becomes Minister Delegate at the Ministry of Defence. “Mr Franck Emmanuel Biya is appointed Vice President of the Republic of Cameroon,” the document states. It further names him “Head of the Armed Forces” and adds that he will serve as “Minister Delegate at the Ministry of Defence.”

The presidency cited “service requirements” and invoked constitutional provisions and defence laws to justify the move, ordering urgent registration and publication in the Official Gazette.

The appointments come months after Biya, 92, was sworn in for a disputed eighth term. Official results gave him 54 percent of the vote against opposition candidate Issa Tchiroma Bakary’s 35 percent. Bakary has rejected the outcome, alleging electoral fraud, which the government denies. The Constitutional Council dismissed all challenges.

Biya, who has ruled since 1982, praised the election as “satisfactory” and commended security forces for containing protests, without addressing allegations of excessive force.

Opponents say the appointment of his son to the vice presidency and military command intensifies concerns over succession planning and democratic governance, as calls for reform mount across the Central African nation.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has suspended preparations for its proposed nationwide voter revalidation exercise following mounting concerns from political parties, civil society groups, and regional stakeholders.

In a directive issued to all Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) on April 4, 2026, the Commission ordered an immediate halt to all publicity and preparatory activities related to the exercise. The letter, signed by INEC Secretary Rose Oriaran-Anthony, instructed RECs to await further directives. The Commission also announced that its scheduled April 9 meeting with RECs will now be held virtually via Zoom.

INEC had earlier proposed the revalidation exercise as a measure to clean up the voter register by removing ineligible entries, including deceased persons, duplicate registrations, and relocated voters, with the aim of enhancing the credibility of future elections.

However, the proposal was met with swift opposition.

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) labeled the exercise a “recipe for chaos,” warning that it could disenfranchise millions of Nigerians less than 10 months before the general elections. The party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, argued that requiring already registered voters to revalidate their details so close to the polls could suppress turnout and deepen voter apathy.

Similarly, a faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) led by Kabiru Tanimu Turaki described the timing as “suspicious,” suggesting it could be used to illegally prune the voter rolls.

In the north, a group identifying as Concerned Former Legislators raised alarm that the exercise could reduce the region’s voting strength ahead of the 2027 elections. The group called on northern leaders, including the Arewa Consultative Forum, to intervene and ensure fairness.

Political analysts acknowledged the merit of updating the voter register but warned that the reportedly proposed three-week timeline was grossly inadequate for a country with over 90 million registered voters. They stressed that any such exercise must be inclusive and accessible, particularly for citizens in remote areas.

INEC has defended the original intent of the exercise. Its Director of Voter Education and Publicity, Victoria Eta-Messi, maintained that the goal was to produce a more credible voter register and strengthen, not restrict, electoral participation.

As of press time, the Commission has not announced a new timeline for the exercise or indicated whether it will be scrapped entirely.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

A woman believed to be mentally ill has delivered a baby girl by the roadside in Kwaita village, located in Kwali Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

According to Daily Trust, the incident happened in the early hours of Saturday at about 12:30 a.m. The woman was said to have given birth without assistance.

A local resident, Saidu Musa, explained that the situation came to light after a neighbour spotted the woman, who is often seen around the roadside, and raised an alarm.

“It was my neighbour who first saw her. She usually stays around the road. When he realised she had delivered a baby, he immediately alerted the police patrol team,” Musa said.

Security operatives responded shortly after the report. They moved the woman and her newborn to the General Hospital in Kwali for treatment.

The FCT Police Command also confirmed the development. Its spokesperson, SP Josephine Adeh, said officers on patrol from the Rapid Response Squad first reported the case at about 12:30 a.m.

She noted that the Gender Unit of the Kwali Division acted quickly after receiving the information and proceeded to the scene.

“The mother and her newborn were safely rescued and immediately conveyed to General Hospital, Kwali, where they received medical attention and were subsequently discharged in stable condition,” she said.

Adeh added that the authorities followed due process by informing the Welfare Officer of Kwali Area Council, Mr. Sadiq Kwali. She said both mother and child were later taken to the FCT Children’s Home in Gwako, within Gwagwalada Area Council, where they will receive proper care.

She further stated that the Commissioner of Police in the FCT, CP Ahmed Mohammed Sanusi, praised the officers for their prompt response. He said they showed compassion and professionalism in handling the situation and ensured the safety of the woman and her baby before the arrival of the Gender Unit.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

A 14-year-old secondary school student has lost her life after a stray bullet struck her in Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State.

The incident took place on Saturday, April 4, at the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH) staff quarters, where the girl lived with her family. She was said to be inside the house when the bullet hit her.

Amnesty International alleged that the bullet was discharged by military personnel who were firing shots in celebration at a nearby wedding.

However, a social media account known for sharing updates on military activities presented a different account. It linked the shooting to members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), a local vigilante group.

“CJTF, not military personnel, were allegedly responsible for the stray bullet that killed a 14-year-old girl in Maiduguri’s Costain area, according to Operation Hadin Kai.”

“The Theatre Command said preliminary findings showed some CJTF members were firing weapons during a social event in a nearby compound when the incident occurred.

“The act was described as unauthorised and unprofessional, with authorities launching an investigation to identify those responsible and prevent future occurrences. Operation Hadin Kai also expressed condolences to the family of the deceased and urged the public to avoid spreading unverified information,” the post read.

A family acquaintance described the girl’s final moments as cheerful, as she had been preparing for a wedding ceremony scheduled for that day.

“She lived in the UMTH quarters with her family and was inside her home when the tragedy occurred. She had just finished applying henna for her mother and herself, joyfully preparing for a family wedding scheduled for that same day,” the source said.

The remains of the teenager were laid to rest on Sunday at a cemetery in Maiduguri. Family members and sympathisers have called for accountability. They described the incident as avoidable.

Amnesty International has also condemned the killing. The organisation urged authorities to carry out a thorough probe.

In its statement, Amnesty International called for a transparent and impartial investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting. It stressed the need to protect civilians and ensure that anyone found responsible is held accountable.

The tragedy has again drawn attention to the risks linked to celebratory gunfire, especially in civilian areas within conflict-affected regions such as Borno State.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

President Bola Tinubu has approved a N3.3 trillion payment plan to settle long-standing debts in Nigeria’s power sector, a move aimed at restoring reliable electricity nationwide.

The debt, accumulated between February 2015 and March 2025, was verified and agreed upon as a full and final settlement under the Presidential Power Sector Financial Reforms Programme.

Implementation is already underway, with 15 power plants signing settlement agreements worth N2.3 trillion. The Federal Government has raised N501 billion for the payments, of which N223 billion has been disbursed.

According to a statehouse release, the government expects the settlement to stabilise generation, improve electricity reliability, attract investment, create jobs, and enhance service delivery.

“This programme is not just about settling legacy debts. It is about restoring confidence across the power sector, ensuring gas suppliers are paid, power plants can keep running, and the system begins to work more reliably,” said Olu Arowolo-Verheijen, Special Adviser on Energy to the President.

She noted that broader reforms, including better metering and service-based tariffs, are also progressing. The government is prioritising power supply to businesses and industries to boost job creation and economic growth.

President Tinubu commended stakeholders involved in resolving the legacy issues and confirmed that the next phase (Series II) will begin this quarter.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced a mandatory revalidation exercise for every Nigerian who obtained a Permanent Voter’s Card (PVC) between 2011 and 2024.

Contrary to widespread assumptions, this process is not a fresh voter registration but a verification and update exercise.

The revalidation can be completed online via the official INEC portal: https://cvr.inecnigeria.org

Steps for online revalidation:

1. Create an account using your personal details.

2. Enter the Voter Identification Number (VIN) printed on your PVC.

3. The system will direct you on where to upload a recent photograph.

4. INEC’s system will process your data to confirm that you are the legitimate owner of the card.

5. Upon successful verification, you will receive a confirmation message.

For physical revalidation:

Visit the nearest INEC center with your PVC. Officials will capture your details and take a fresh photograph. A confirmation message will then be sent to your registered phone number or email.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The White House moved quickly to dismiss circulating rumours suggesting that President Donald Trump was receiving treatment at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. The speculation emerged online on Saturday after the administration announced that the President would not make public appearances for the rest of the day.

President Trump’s health has remained under public scrutiny throughout his second term, with observers noting his past public missteps, apparent physical limitations, and reported medical concerns. The sudden absence from his usual weekend routine, which often includes a golf trip to Mar-a-Lago, triggered widespread conjecture.

Trump’s personal spokesperson, Steven Cheung, took to X to reassure the public: “There has never been a President who has worked harder for the American people than President Trump. On this Easter weekend, he has been working nonstop in the White House and Oval Office. God Bless him.”

The President’s last visit to Walter Reed occurred in October, when he underwent a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan. At the time, he told reporters aboard Air Force One: “I did. I got an MRI. It was perfect.” Trump, 79, did not disclose the specific reason for the scan, which can detect a variety of medical conditions. “The doctor said [it] was some of the best reports, for the age, they’ve ever seen,” he added, directing further questions to his medical team.

Dr. Sean Barbabella, Trump’s physician, described the October appointment as a “scheduled follow-up evaluation as part of his ongoing health maintenance plan and included advanced imaging, laboratory testing, and preventative health assessments.” He added that the President “continues to demonstrate excellent overall health.” According to the U.S. National Institutes of Health, MRI scans are particularly effective for examining soft tissue and internal organs using powerful magnetic fields.

In 2025, the White House reported that Trump had been diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency, a condition in which leg veins fail to return blood efficiently to the heart, causing fluid buildup in the lower limbs. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt noted that the diagnosis followed observations of swelling in the President’s legs. Dr. Barbabella described the condition as “benign and common” among older adults.

Trump had also been seen wearing cosmetic patches on the back of his hand. The White House explained that the marks resulted from repeated handshakes and were unrelated to the vein condition.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has inaugurated a newly built Federal Operations Unit (FOU), Zone ‘A’ office complex of the Nigeria Customs Service in Iperu, Ogun State. The project marks a significant step in the agency’s expansion and reform programme.

The commissioning took place on Saturday, April 4, 2026. During the event, the Comptroller-General of Customs, Adewale Adeniyi, said the project reflects efforts to strengthen the Service’s core responsibilities while improving staff welfare and working conditions.

He explained that the new facility became necessary due to growing operational pressure and inadequate space at the existing base in Ikeja, Lagos.

“We’ve just commissioned the Federal Operations Unit; they will be moving here as soon as possible. It’s already been furnished. The accessories that would ensure proper functioning of the facilities have also been installed. Provision of a modern armoury and then, of course, you know that this is the warehouse directly opposite this facility. This warehouse will also support the warehouse at the nearby aviation village”, he explained.

Adeniyi praised Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, for supporting the relocation effort. He also acknowledged former Comptroller-General, Col. Hameed Ali (Rtd), for initiating the project. He said the former CGC laid the groundwork for its completion.

On the financial aspect, Adeniyi disclosed that the project was initially valued at ₦73 billion. He noted that current economic conditions may lead to a revision of the cost.

The Customs boss also revealed that operations have started at the nearby cargo airport, which was inaugurated on the same day. He said officers are already involved in cargo handling and terminal activities.

“We’re already at the airport, and we also had our officers who performed tallying when Mr President was asked to witness the offloading of the first cargo at the airport. So, we’re already there, the facilities have been provided for us.”

The project site is designed to host about 142 structures. These include a training college, multipurpose halls, and a sports complex. The development reflects the Service’s long-term plan for growth and modernisation.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Comptroller-General of Customs, Wale Adeniyi, has pledged support for Team Nigeria’s build-up to the 2026 Commonwealth Games after his appointment as one of the country’s official ambassadors by the National Sports Commission.

The announcement, which was made on April 1, 2026, forms part of efforts to mobilise nationwide backing for the Games. The initiative brings together key figures from the sports sector, including administrators, former athletes, and other stakeholders. Adeniyi’s inclusion highlights the increasing role of public institutions in sports development and places the Nigeria Customs Service among contributors to Nigeria’s international sporting ambitions.

Members of the ambassadorial team include experienced sports administrators such as Mallam Saleh Ahmadu, Dr Amos Adamu, Chief Patrick Ekeji, Alhassan Yakmut, and Gbenga Elegbeleye. All have held leadership roles at the National Sports Commission. Their experience is expected to guide planning and preparation for the Games.

The team also features notable former athletes. Among them are Olympic medalist Daniel Igali and Commonwealth champion Blessing Oborodudu. Other stakeholders and representatives from the private sector were also named. The composition of the group reflects an attempt to combine technical knowledge with athlete experience to strengthen preparations.

Reacting to the development, the Comptroller-General praised the initiative and described sports as an important tool for unity, youth involvement, and global recognition. He stressed the need for cooperation among stakeholders to ensure effective preparation for the competition.

“The success of Team Nigeria will depend not only on the athletes but on the strength of the support system around them. This ambassadorial initiative is a step in the right direction towards building that collective responsibility,” he stated.

The 2026 Commonwealth Games will take place in Glasgow, Scotland, from July 23 to August 2, 2026. Athletes from across the Commonwealth are expected to compete in several events, including athletics, swimming, boxing, cycling, and gymnastics. The programme will also include para-sports.