Author: Daily Post Nigeria

The Abia State chapter of the All Progressive Congress, APC, has declared the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, as the leader and rallying point of the party in the state.

This followed different statements issued by Abia North senator, Orji Uzor Kalu, and Deputy Speaker House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, in which they separately thanked President Bola Tinubu for making them the ‘leader’ of Abia APC.

In a statement issued on Monday by Uche Aguoru, the Publicity Secretary of Abia APC, the party said that Benjamin Kalu remained the “undisputed leader” of APC in the state.

Aguoru who thanked President Bola Tinubu and the APC National Chairman, Nentawe Yilwatda, for supporting the party’s congress in Abia, warned that any other group or leaders trying to bring division in the state would be resisted

“Any individual or group parading themselves as leaders of the party in the state does so at their own risk.

“The leadership of the APC in Abia will firmly resist any attempt no matter how highly placed to sow seeds of division, create parallel structures, or undermine the unity and cohesion of our party,” Aguoru warned.

Abia APC backs Deputy Speaker Kalu as ‘leader’, as two camps claim Tinubu’s support

The Nigeria Police Force, through the Force Intelligence Department Special Tactical Squad (FID-STS), has recorded a major breakthrough with the arrest of two (2) suspects involved in the large-scale vandalisation of critical national infrastructure and the recovery of railway materials valued at over Four Hundred Million Naira (₦400,000,000).

The suspects, Chisom Goodnews (32) and Ahmed Adamu (22), were arrested on 9th April 2026 at about 1800hrs in Akwanga, Nasarawa State, following credible intelligence.

The operation led to the interception of a trailer truck conveying approximately sixty (60) tonnes of vandalised railway tracks and sleepers. The materials were concealed under sacks of groundnut shells in a deliberate attempt to evade detection while being transported from Bauchi State to Ilorin, Kwara State.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the driver of the truck was contracted for the sum of Two Million Five Hundred Thousand Naira (₦2,500,000) to transport the vandalised materials, while further findings indicate an organised supply chain linked to receivers of such stolen infrastructure.

During the investigation, the operatives involved in the operation reportedly rejected an offer of One Hundred Million Naira (₦100,000,000) made in a bid to compromise the process and secure the release of the suspects and exhibits.

The trailer truck used in conveying the items has been recovered, and investigations are ongoing to apprehend other members of the syndicate, including the intended receivers, and to recover additional exhibits.

The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, psc(+), NPM, commends the operatives for their courage, discipline, and incorruptibility, noting that such acts exemplify the core values of the Force.

The Nigeria Police Force remains dedicated to safeguarding the nation’s assets from vandalism.

A leading governorship aspirant in Nasarawa State, Faisal Shuaib, has officially withdrawn from the 2027 governorship race under the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Shuaib announced his decision on Monday during a press conference in Lafia, just days after a large rally in the state capital where supporters turned out in large numbers despite heavy rainfall.

His withdrawal follows the endorsement of Senator Ahmed Aliyu Wadada by Governor Abdullahi Sule as his preferred successor.

Addressing journalists, Shuaib said his decision came after extensive consultations with supporters and stakeholders across the state, stressing that it was guided by integrity and a commitment to keeping his word.

“I gave my word that I would support whoever His Excellency presents as his preferred candidate. That commitment was not meant for easy times alone. Painful as it is, I must honour it,” he said.

The former Executive Director of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) noted that public service requires sacrifice and discipline, adding that his decision reflects those values.

“Public service is not always about being the loudest voice. It is about consistency, responsibility, and doing the work, even when it is not convenient,” he added.

Shuaib formally declared his support for Senator Wadada, pledging to deploy his political structure in support of the governor’s choice.

“I am withdrawing from the contest and throwing my full weight behind Senator Ahmed Aliyu Wadada. The structure we have built remains strong and ready for the journey ahead,” he stated.

He expressed appreciation to his supporters across the state, describing their loyalty and commitment as deeply moving, while urging them to remain united and rally behind the party’s direction.

The former aspirant also commended the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, expressing confidence that ongoing reforms would yield positive outcomes in the long run.

Observers at the event reported an emotional atmosphere, as many supporters and stakeholders reacted with visible disappointment over the unexpected development.

Ex-NPHCDA boss Shuaib withdraws from Nasarawa guber race, backs Wadada

The Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transportation, CILT has sought collaboration with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC towards enhancing interconnectivity through a multimodal logistics and transportation system that involves the rail, road, sea, motorways and pipelines.

The request was made on Thursday, April 23, 2026, when Dr. Boboye Oyeyemi, President and chairman of Council, CILT led other executives on a courtesy visit to the Executive Chairman of EFCC, Ola Olukoyede at the Commission’s corporate headquarters in Jabi, Abuja.

“We can collaborate with the EFCC in terms of advocacy. When I’m talking of advocacy, I’m talking about the issue of the transport and logistics sector. We can have anti-corruption awareness within the transport sector. Another key issue has to do with professional ethics and training. We believe that we can collaborate with EFCC in the area of public transport as regards to integrity programmes for industry professionals and also research policies addressing logistics vulnerabilities in financial crimes,” he said.

He also identified logistics and supply chain expertise as another area of collaboration with the EFCC. According to him, “There’s no way you can conduct an investigation without bumping into the issue of logistics and transportation. We believe that we can look into this and offer professional memberships to your members of staff at different levels. We believe if they are members of the institute, it will lessen the cost of your investigation”

 “In also your Academy. We can also offer to deliver lectures in this area to enhance professionalism. So, before your Cadets pass out from the Academy, members of the Institute can make lectures to be delivered in the areas of logistics and transport so as to enhance their professionalism. At the end of the day, they will have professional certificates and also have enhanced capacity to investigate the issues of logistics and transportation.”  

He blamed the delay in the clearance of goods in Nigerian seaports to logistical inadequacies. “There’s so much serious problem in logistics in Nigeria, so many duplications. And it’s not giving Nigeria a good image. You are talking about bringing investors. I don’t want to bring investors if it would take weeks to clear their goods,” he said.

Oyeyemi expressed optimism for a strong collaboration and partnership between CILT and the EFCC, noting that the Institute and the Commission have shared values in terms of integrity, professionalism and national development.

The Secretary of the Commission, Mohammed Hammajoda who received the delegation on behalf of Olukoyede expressed delight at the visit and assured them of the willingness of the Commission to collaborate with CILT in all the areas Oyeyemi identified.

“Thank you for your concern and patriotic zeal. We are aware of the problems of logistics deficit and inadequate multimodal transportation system. We are ready to collaborate with you within what our Establishment Act permits us. You are welcomed anytime in our Academy,” he said.

The Senator representing the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Ireti Kingibe, has called for a thorough and transparent investigation into the death of a National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, Abdulsamad Jamiu, who was killed by personnel of the Nigerian Army.

In a statement issued on Monday, the lawmaker expressed deep sorrow over the tragic development, describing the loss as both heartbreaking and avoidable.

“I am deeply saddened and heartbroken by the tragic death of Abdulsamad Jamiu, a young Nigerian who lost his life in an unfortunate incident involving personnel of the Nigerian Army,” Kingibe said.

The senator noted that while preliminary accounts suggest the shooting may have been accidental, the outcome remains devastating and raises serious concerns about operational conduct.

“This painful loss is a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the urgent need for heightened caution and professionalism in all security operations. While preliminary reports indicate that this may have been an accidental shooting, the consequences are devastating and irreversible,” she added.

Kingibe extended her condolences to the family of the deceased, stressing that no parent should have to endure the pain of losing a child, particularly under such circumstances.

“My thoughts and prayers are with the parents, family, and loved ones of the deceased. The grief of losing a child under such circumstances is unimaginable, and as a nation, we share in their sorrow,” she said.

“No family should have to endure such pain, especially when their child was serving the country with dedication under the National Youth Service Corps scheme.”

The FCT senator acknowledged the Nigerian Army’s initial response to the incident but emphasized that more must be done beyond immediate reactions.

“I acknowledge the response of the Nigerian Army following this incident. However, beyond initial reactions, there must be a thorough, transparent, and accountable investigation to ensure that justice is served and that lessons are learned,” she stated.

She further used the incident to highlight broader concerns about the safety of young Nigerians, particularly corps members, and the need for systemic reforms within the country’s security architecture.

“This tragic occurrence underscores the urgent need to strengthen rules of engagement, improve coordination between security agencies and civilians, and ensure that our young Nigerians – especially corps members – are adequately protected at all times.
Preventable incidents such as this must never be allowed to happen again,” Kingibe said.

Reaffirming her commitment to legislative and oversight action, the senator pledged to engage relevant authorities to push for reforms aimed at safeguarding citizens and restoring public trust.

“As the Senator representing the Federal Capital Territory, I will continue to engage relevant authorities to push for reforms that prioritize the safety of our citizens and restore public confidence in our security institutions,” she said.

FCT Senator Demands Probe Into Corps Member Killed by Army is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

Four-time winner, John Higgins, produced a sensational recovery from 8-3 and 9-4 down to defeat Ronnie O’Sullivan 13-12 in a final-frame Crucible epic to reach the World Championship quarter-finals.

Seven-time champion O’Sullivan was seeking an eighth title to set a new outright record in the modern era, and twice held five-frame leads in Sunday’s second session.

But Higgins won the last three frames on Sunday and maintained that form by taking the first three on Monday as O’Sullivan lost six successive frames at the Crucible for only the fifth time.

In a high-quality thriller, played out in front of an enthralled crowd, O’Sullivan won the 20th and 21st frames to regain the lead at 11-10.

In surely the match of the tournament, and one of the best in the 49 years at the Sheffield theatre, Higgins won two frames in a row to move one away at 12-11, but O’Sullivan’s break of 81 forced a decider.

Higgins had the first chance but missed a red into the middle at 16-0 to give O’Sullivan a lifeline, before the Englishman could only score eight points and failed to pot a red.

The Scot then made a break of 49 on his way to sealing a match-winning frame, with both players getting a standing ovation as the tie finished.

The 50-year-olds are two of snooker’s fabled ‘Class of ’92’, along with 51-year-old Mark Williams, with the trio having 14 world titles between them.

Higgins, the champion in 1998, 2007, 2009 and 2011, will now play either 2010 winner Neil Robertson or world number 13 Chris Wakelin.

Robertson leads 10-6.

Snooker W’Championship: Higgins Recovers To Beat O’Sullivan In Crucible Epic is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

Nigerians, especially the youth, have been cautioned against patronising emerging Ponzi schemes. According to experts who spoke with THE WHISTLER in Enugu on Monday, Ponzi has no security, thus people should desist from investing in it.

Dr Ezekiel Ezike, an economist, said investing in ponzi schemes is not advisable because they are not backed by any law, and also have no insurance of refund when the networks crash. He said while many investors might get rewards, “many will surely be caught in the web of the networks with their devastating consequences”.

Quoting him, “I have heard about many of them currently trending. I won’t mention names, but it is risky. The common slogan of robbing Peter to pay Paul is associated with ponzi. It is what people contributed that is giving out as rewards to corresponding investors, while the hosts enjoy some percentages. It is always attractive at the start, but when the organisers have trapped enough cash in the web, they close up. We do forget easily. At least, the memories of MMM and Crowd Nine are still fresh. Many Nigerians were roped in, and when the die was cast, some of them committed suicide. Some drove their SUVs to river banks, parked and then voluntarily drowned. That tells you the level of the attendant frustration.”

A retired lecturer at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Dr Oliver Mpu, called on relevant agencies to sensitise Nigerians on the dangers of investing in vulnerable platforms. “Although citizens have the rights to initiate their means of survival, it is the duty of the government and relevant agencies to educate the masses on the best methods to adopt. These schemes are online, hence it is difficult to control them. But the government can deploy the media to launch campaign against unhealthy investments. Such will let those who want to embark on such ventures to know the inherent dangers. It is for them to decide.”

Some youths doing the schemes, however, said they were aware of the risk. “The bad economy in this country has made everything possible,” a resident of Trans-Ekulu, Enugu, said on condition of anonymity. “Many youths survive through betting and ponzi. I have already cashed out the money from one of the platforms I invested in last week. I know it will crash, but not too soon. The victims are usually those that come last. The beginners will enjoy the investment. I don’t regret it, but I know the dangers therein.”

Johnson resides at Obiagu in Enugu. He said, “I am a graduate, and have no job. My barber’s shop was demolished. I have been thinking the way out. I put in N20,000 and I got my money in double, and it is counting. I use the cash-out to feed. When it crashes, I will not cry too much because I have gained from it. Tell the government to provide us jobs so that we will not be risking all chances. I lost some money to MMM, but I know people that made millions from it.”

Romanus, a resident of New Haven, said the hardship in the country had made gambling inevitable. “I registered and made some returns,” according to him, “I then registered my wife, and she has also made some incomes from it. I don’t know what you are saying. Whoever is trapped should not complain. Those who earned well should celebrate. I have made three times more than my monthly income within a week through this gamble.”

Experts Warn Against Emerging Ponzi Schemes is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

The Kano State House of Assembly has confirmed Murtala Garo as the new deputy governor of Kano State following a successful screening exercise.

The confirmation came during plenary on Monday, presided over by the Speaker, Jibril Falgore, after lawmakers considered and adopted the report of an ad hoc committee set up to review the nomination.

Presenting the report, Deputy Speaker Muhammad Bello said Garo’s nomination followed the resignation of the former deputy governor, Aminu Gwarzo.

He noted that the screening was conducted in accordance with Section 191(3)(c) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which mandates legislative approval in the event of a vacancy in the office of deputy governor.

According to the committee, Garo was thoroughly assessed on his educational qualifications, professional experience, knowledge of governance, and plans for the state. Lawmakers said he demonstrated a solid understanding of the responsibilities of the office and outlined a clear vision to support Governor Abba Yusuf in delivering his administration’s agenda.

Based on its findings, the committee recommended his confirmation, which received unanimous approval from the Assembly.

The House also reiterated its commitment to collaborating with the executive arm to strengthen good governance, ensure accountability, and drive development across the state.

Kano Assembly Confirms Garo As Dep Gov is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

The criminal case involving cryptocurrency entrepreneur Linus “Blord” Ifejirika and social media activist Martins “VeryDarkMan” (VDM) Otse stalled on Monday after the presiding judge recused herself from the matter, leading to an adjournment of proceedings to May 19, 2026, for mention.

Both parties appeared before Justice Rita Ofili-Ajumogobia of the Federal High Court in Abuja for continuation of the trial, just days after Blord was granted bail on self-recognition and released from the Kuje Correctional Centre.

However, proceedings were unexpectedly halted when the judge, on her own volition and without any formal application from either party, announced her decision to withdraw from the case. She said the case file would be forwarded to the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court for reassignment.

The decision, according to proceedings, was aimed at preserving public confidence in the judiciary amid heightened social media commentary, criticism, and online attacks linked to the case.

Speaking with journalists after the court sitting, lawyer Chikezie Elijah described the development as unusual, noting that it was not prompted by any formal request from either side.

“However, the judge, in a most unusual event, decided to state to the courts that she will be recusing herself from this case and will be sending the file to the Honourable Chief Judge for reassignment of this case. And it was a most unexpected event, as far as I know, there was no formal application,” he said.

He added that such a step is typically taken where there is a concern that the integrity of the judicial process could be questioned.

The case, filed by the Nigeria Police Force, borders on allegations of criminal conspiracy, impersonation, and unauthorised use of VDM’s identity. Blord had previously been remanded in Kuje prison before securing bail.

All parties, including the prosecution and defence, had indicated readiness to proceed with the trial before the sudden recusal halted proceedings.

Human rights activist Omoyele Sowore was also present in court. He had previously criticised Blord’s remand and vowed to secure his release, alleging irregularities in the process, a development that had triggered a public disagreement with VDM.

Notably, Blord and VDM met briefly within the court premises and were seen exchanging pleasantries and shaking hands in the presence of their legal representatives before leaving the court.

VDM, however, shifted attention in his remarks, stating that the matter had moved beyond Blord and had become a matter of pride involving Sowore.

“It’s not about Blord anymore, it’s a thing of pride now, it’s about Sowore. I want to show Sowore that he cannot do anything, I want him to know,” he said.

He also warned that any unauthorised use of his identity would attract a firm response, while alleging that Sowore had long held grievances against him.

The case has continued to attract public attention due to the prominence of the individuals involved and the intense discussions it has generated across social media platforms.

Blord, VDM Case Stalled As Judge Steps Down is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

Popular Nigerian actor Vitalis Ndubuisi has advised people to be more cautious about sharing their personal problems, warning that constant openness about struggles may not always bring the relief many expect.

In a video online, the actor shared what he described as one of the most important lessons he has learned in life avoiding the habit of telling others everything that is going wrong.

According to him, while many individuals believe that opening up about their challenges will lead to comfort or solutions, the reality is often different.

Ndubuisi explained that sharing personal struggles does not always provide the emotional support people seek, as others may not fully grasp the depth of such experiences.

“Nobody will understand the full weight of what you are going through, because they are not there with you,” he said.

He further noted that it can be emotionally exhausting to disclose deep personal issues only to receive responses that feel superficial, such as expressions of pity.

According to the actor, such reactions rarely address the root of the problem or significantly ease the burden.

Drawing on traditional wisdom, Ndubuisi said elders have long cautioned against excessive disclosure of personal difficulties, warning that it can sometimes have unintended social consequences.

He added that repeatedly discussing personal problems may cause others to withdraw or avoid such individuals over time.

The actor concluded his message by encouraging people to exercise restraint, noting that some challenges are better handled privately rather than expecting others to fully understand or resolve them.

Be Careful Who You Open Up To, Actor Ndubuisi Warns is first published on The Whistler Newspaper