Category: Uncategorized

Ahead of the All Progressives Congress, APC, primary for the 2027 general elections scheduled for next month, angry constituents of Orhionmwon Constituency have protested against the re-election of Hon. Osamwonyi Atu, the Deputy Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, over alleged unfulfilled campaign promises.

The constituents protested on Friday, April 24, 2026, in Abudu, the administrative headquarters of the Local Government Area.

DAILY POST reports that the protest coincided with plans by the embattled lawmaker to flag off his re-election campaign in the area.

The constituents, mainly youths made up of young men and women, protested under the aegis of Concerned Orhionmwon East Youths.

They vowed to resist the exercise while insisting that the deputy speaker must first fulfil promises made during the 2023 electioneering campaign.

In a viral video, some protesters were heard questioning Abudu women on whether they were happy living in total blackout.

“You are campaigning when there is no light in your constituency. You have not even fulfilled your 2023 campaign promises,” they alleged.

The protesters, who were armed with placards bearing various inscriptions, accused the lawmaker of neglecting critical issues affecting the constituency.

They listed some of the critical issues the lawmaker failed to address to include the prolonged power outage, said to have lasted over 15 years, as well as the non-completion of a comprehensive school project, among others.

Reacting, the Deputy Speaker dismissed the allegations, attributing the protest to backlash from individuals affected by the state’s anti-cultism law recently passed by the Assembly.

“Those protesting are pained by the anti-cultism law. The law has come to stay,” he said.

Also speaking, the Coordinator of the Osamwonyi Atu Campaign Organisation, Hon. Martins Ozakpolor, alleged that the protesters were sponsored by a rival aspirant seeking to discredit the deputy speaker.

Ozakpolor maintained that the lawmaker has delivered on key campaign promises, including the construction of a comprehensive school in the constituency.

He added that the deputy speaker was received by members of the Abudu Elders Council, who offered prayers for the success of his re-election bid.

2027: Angry constituents reject reelection of Edo Deputy Speaker, disrupt campaign flag-off

In line with ongoing reforms aimed at restructuring and streamlining tactical operations across Ogun State, the Commissioner of Police, CP Bode Ojajuni, has approved the appointment of CSP Daramola Thompson as the Violent Crime Response Unit Commander.

According to the commissioner, the appointment is part of efforts to establish a unified, professional, and intelligence-driven unit dedicated to tackling violent crimes.

Ojajuni, in a statement signed by the command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, said the reform is designed to enhance operational efficiency, accountability, and a coordinated response to security challenges across the state.

The statement reads: “The appointment was concluded after a rigorous screening process, which also marked the commencement of the orientation programme for newly selected unit personnel.

“The Commissioner of Police and members of the Command Management Team actively participated in the orientation process to provide strategic guidance, operational direction, and reinforce the reform objectives of the Inspector-General of Police.

“CSP Daramola Sunday Thompson is a seasoned officer with extensive experience in crime-fighting operations. He has served in several capacities, including Officer-in-Charge of the Anti-Cultism Unit and CP Monitoring Unit in Ogun State Command; Officer-in-Charge of the Anti-Fraud Unit and Anti-Car Theft Unit in Ekiti State Command; as well as Divisional Police Officer (DPO), Noyo Division, Ebonyi State.”

Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police charged the newly appointed commander to strictly align with the reform objectives of the Inspector-General of Police by upholding professionalism and discipline.

He stressed the importance of integrity in the discharge of his duties, while ensuring swift, lawful, and effective responses to violent crimes across Ogun State.

Ogun: Police boss appoint Daramola Thompson as violent crime response commander

Lobi Stars Chairman Terver Ikya has outlined plans to rebuild their squad for the 2026/27 Nigeria National League, NNL, season.

The Pride of Makurdi failed to secure promotion to the Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL, in the recently concluded NNL season.

Ikya said that they will promote five players from the youth team of the club.

“Will not recruit more than thirty players and then five from the youth team of Lobi Stars (U-19), totaling thirty-five players.” Ikya told Voicesports.

Ikya added that contracts of players signed before the current board took over will be terminated.

“And again, the contract of players signed in the team before we came on board ranging from 1-2 years will be terminated and we will start on a new slate.

“We will not attend to players sent by anybody. I want to take my fate in my hands so that whatever the outcome, I would take the responsibility.”

NNL: Lobi Stars chief plans squad overhaul after failed promotion bid

As the August 15, 2026, Osun governorship election draws near, stakeholders have reviewed a new assessment highlighting potential threats to a credible poll, while also raising concerns over preparedness for the governorship election in the state.

The stakeholders also recommended the need for closer coordination among themselves, with participants calling for strict adherence to existing peace agreements and responsible conduct by political actors.

The issues were outlined during a validation session convened by the Kukah Centre, where findings from its political, social, and security analysis were presented to a cross-section of participants.

Presenting the findings, the Research Manager at the Kukah Centre, Fatai Yusuf, stated that the political landscape in the state had become increasingly competitive.

“The 2026 election reflects a major political realignment, including the defection of the incumbent governor to a new party, reshaping alliances and increasing competition,” Yusuf said.

He explained that the contest was gradually taking the shape of a three-way race, noting that this development could heighten uncertainty and tension across the state.

Yusuf added, “Documented incidents include violence, injuries, and kidnappings across multiple local government areas, indicating potential flashpoints.”

Also speaking at the session, the Project Manager at the Kukah Centre, Asabe Ndahi, described the forthcoming election as significant beyond the state level.

“The 2026 gubernatorial election is more than a state-level exercise; it is a defining test of our collective commitment to democratic integrity and a precursor to the 2027 general elections,” she said.

Attendees drawn from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, political parties, and civil society groups examined risk factors capable of undermining the electoral process.

Participants collectively urged governments and those in positions of authority to prioritise preventive strategies, warning that unresolved institutional and political grievances often serve as triggers for electoral violence.

Kukah Centre report flags risks, urge peace ahead Osun governorship poll

Actress Tonto Dikeh’s ex-husband, Olakunle Churchill, has broken his silence amid ongoing rumours of divorce from his wife, Rosy Meurer.

It was earlier speculated that Meurer filed for divorce from Churchill on April 20, 2026, following his alleged recent close relationship with Tonto Dikeh after their son, King Andre’s 10th birthday three months ago.

However, speaking amid the ongoing divorce rumours, Churchill, in a post on his Instagram story on Friday, explained that, “As a father, if I’m ever in a place where I have to pick between my kids or anyone/anything else, I’m picking my kids. Period.”

DAILY POST reports that the rumour first surfaced online shortly after Churchill reunited with his ex-wife, Tonto Dikeh, in January 2026, nine years after their messy divorce.

Revealing the purpose of their reunion, Churchill, in an Instagram post, noted that the reconciliation with his ex is strictly for co-parenting and not as a couple. Since then, they have been seen together in several photos and videos.

Meurer, who was previously close to the ex-couple before their separation, was earlier accused of “snatching” Churchill from Tonto.

She got married to Churchill in 2019, barely two years after his divorce from Tonto.

‘I’m picking my kids over anyone else’ – Churchill breaks silence amid alleged divorce from Meurer

The first South East Scrabble Championship which officially commenced in Umuahia on Wednesday has come to an end as Abia Shines, winning 18 games out of the 22 games played among top players from across the South-East.

Representing the Commissioner for Sports and Youth Development, the permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Sports and Youth Development, Mrs. Jane Maxwell, commended the participants for their focus and determination.

“The players were focused and determined to win. Scrabble is a mind game, and I’m impressed by their level of thinking,” Jane said.

She further encouraged participants to see the competition as more than just a contest.

“It’s not only about winning. It’s also an opportunity to build friendships, connect with others,” she added.

The Director of Sports, Obioma George, thanked the athletes and highlighted the state’s growing reputation as a center for sporting activities.

He noted that the state had hosted several major competitions in recent months, including regional and national events across different sports.

“In January, we hosted the Southeast Shooting Championship. In March, we hosted the Southeast Dart Championship and the National Under-12 and Under-15 Handball Championship. Now in April, we’ve hosted Scrabble, and in the coming months, we will also host boxing and para-powerlifting,” he said.

He noted that hosting these competitions has enabled the state to discover and nurture young talents who are already excelling at higher levels.

“All these events are giving us an advantage. The talents we have discovered are being trained, and they are already making the state proud,” George said.

He further thanked the governor for his support, noting that the governor’s support is driving the development of young people through sports.

George commended the contributions of young people and the media in advancing sports development within the state.

“We thank the youths for their interest in sports and the media for helping to showcase our activities to the world,” he noted.

The Vice President of the Nigeria Scrabble Federation (NSF), Lovejoy Ezinna, praised the government for supporting the development of scrabble, particularly among young players.

“The government’s support has made a big difference. We started training young players, and they have already made an impact by winning gold medals at national events,” he said.

He described Scrabble as a tool for intellectual growth and family bonding.

“Scrabble is a mind game that builds intelligence. If families make it a habit, it will help children grow mentally and strengthen family relationships,” he said.

He further revealed plans to expand training programmes and introduce an online platform, ” Scrabble School,” to connect and train people interested in learning the game.

“We want to make Scrabble accessible to everyone, through structured programmes and coaching, more people can get involved and benefit from the game,” he added.

The Abia State Head Coach for Scrabble, Mr. Azu Neighbor expressed satisfaction with the outcome of the event and the high level of talent displayed.

“What we have here are some of the best players in the Southeast. I was surprised with the kind of words they were all forming.

“This competition will help prepare them for the national tournament coming up soon,” he said.

He added that the state has recorded steady progress in scrabble development, especially with increased support from the government.

“We have been improving over time. Since the introduction of the secondary school games, we have discovered raw talents and taken them to national youth competitions,” he stated.

He highlighted the recent achievements, noting that the state has consistently returned from competitions with medals.

“In recent tournaments, we have won gold and silver medals, and this year alone, we came back with seven silver medals. We are confident that with continued support, we will achieve even more,” he said.

Abia Shines As First South East Scrabble Championship Ends In Umuahia is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

The Abia State Police Command has denied an online report which accused the command of framing, torturing and denying bail to Tochi Ireokwu, a suspended Deputy Director of Logistics and Supply, Abia State Homeland Security Service.

In a rejoinder issued by DSP Maureen Chinaka, the Police Public Relations Officer, the Abia Police Command said that the alleged torture and frame-up were false and did not represent the true situation of the incident.

According to the police, the suspect, Tochi Ireokwu, and three other suspects were apprehended by operatives of the command through actionable intelligence for allegedly engaging in economic sabotage, vandalisation, stealing, conspiracy, aiding and abetting.

The statement read in part: “The aforementioned suspect, on 04/04/2026, went to a government property with her assistant, who is equally one of the suspects, and deceitfully collected a bunch of keys from the CSO of the premises where valuables were kept under the guise of inspecting and taking inventory in order to beef up security.

“During the exercise, she removed some keys from the bunch and, after her inspection, returned the remaining keys to the CSO.”

The Abia State Police Command said that the suspect led a team that vandalised and carted away electrical armoured cables, wires, electronic motors, engine cylinders, half-engine metals, car batteries, and other items, loading them into a wine-red Toyota Sienna which did not have a vehicle number plate.

According to the police, Tochi Ireokwu and other suspects were apprehended on the spot by operatives of the nearest division while acting on actionable intelligence.

The Abia State Police Command, which said that the suspect had allegedly made a confessional statement after the matter was transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department, explained that the suspects were remanded in police custody pending a case that is coming up at the Federal High Court, Umuahia.

Vandalism: Police deny torturing female suspect in Abia during investigation

The Agbu Kefas Continuity Movement has dismissed the recent political declaration by Senator Emmanuel Bwacha, describing it as a “desperate comeback” built on falsehoods, distorted figures, and misleading claims about the state of governance in Taraba State.

In a statement issued shortly after Bwacha’s declaration, the group said the former senator’s remarks were “factually bankrupt” and lacked credible evidence, insisting that his address was a recycled political script aimed at misleading the public.

According to the statement signed by Mallam Ibrahim Ardo, the coordinator of the movement, Bwacha’s claims regarding debt, insecurity, and governance performance were “exaggerated and fundamentally untrue.”

“From the very first paragraph to the last, Bwacha’s declaration collapses under the weight of its own contradictions. This is not leadership; this is desperation dressed as ambition,” the group stated.

The movement specifically rejected Bwacha’s assertion that Taraba State’s debt profile had risen from N237 billion to over N1 trillion, describing the figure as “reckless and misleading.”

“This is not opposition; this is misinformation. The debt profile he quoted is not supported by verifiable records,” it said, challenging Bwacha to provide credible documentation for his claims.

Reacting to comments on insecurity, the group pointed to Bwacha’s ability to hold a public declaration in Jalingo without incident as evidence of improved safety in the state.

“In 2022, fear of kidnapping and insecurity dominated public life. Today, he gathered supporters in Jalingo and made his declaration without incident. That is the reality of improved security,” the statement added.

The movement credited Governor Agbu Kefas’ administration with strengthening intelligence gathering, supporting security agencies, and restoring public confidence across communities.

The movement also dismissed Bwacha’s criticism of transparency in governance, describing it as ironic and politically motivated.

“Bwacha is not in a position to lecture anyone on transparency. Tarabans deserve answers on projects executed under his watch, their costs, outcomes, and impact,” it stated.

It further accused the former senator of relying on “unverified narratives” due to a lack of factual evidence against the current administration.

The group maintained that the Kefas administration has recorded measurable progress in key sectors, including security, education, and infrastructure.

Describing Bwacha’s declaration as “long on rhetoric but short on substance,” the movement urged residents to remain focused on what it called visible governance achievements rather than political speeches.

“This election will not be decided by emotional declarations but by the people who can see progress on the ground,” it said.

“We defeated Bwacha in 2023. Nothing in his declaration suggests growth or a new direction. Taraba will not move backwards in 2027,” the statement concluded.

Agbu Kefas group dismisses Bwacha’s declaration on Taraba as misinformation

Ekiti-born Nigerian businessman, Isaac Fayose, has warned electorates in Ekiti State against re-electing Governor Biodun Oyebanji for second-term.

Isaac Fayose gave the warning on Friday in a video he shared on his official Facebook page while reacting to the report of President Bola Tinubu’s alleged move to storm the state on Monday.

Reports indicate that the president is set to flag off the All Progressives Congress, APC governorship campaign in Ekiti State on April 27, 2026.

The event is scheduled to take place at the Ekiti Parapo Pavilion in Ado-Ekiti.

Reacting, Isaac Fayose wondered why the governor failed to invite the president for project commissioning since he took over office.

He said, “I heard that Mr President will be coming to Ekiti State on Monday to flag the flag off.

“Mr President, for over three and a half years, why didn’t they invite you to come and commission anything? Now they are inviting you to come and flag off the campaign.

“Why do you want to reinforce failure in Ekiti State? You are dragging Ekiti people back.

“Now you want to dash this guy another four years of hopelessness and nothing to show? This is unfair on Ekiti people.”

Watch Video

Ekiti guber: Nothing to show after 3 years – Isaac Fayose warns against Oyebanji’s re-election

The Taraba State Commissioner for Basic Education, Dr Augustina Godwin, has raised alarm over a growing shortage of science teachers in the state, particularly in physics and chemistry, warning of potential long-term consequences for critical sectors.

Godwin disclosed this during an in-person training programme for Science, Technology, Mathematics and Agriculture (STEMA) teachers held in Jalingo and attended by educators from senior secondary schools across the North-East region.

According to the commissioner, the inadequate number of qualified science teachers poses a serious threat to the state’s educational development and could undermine the future production of professionals such as doctors and engineers.

She stressed the urgent need for teachers to actively encourage students to take up science subjects.

“This trend is inimical to the development of the state and could affect our capacity to produce skilled professionals in the near future,” she said.

To address the challenge, Godwin pledged to revamp the Guidance and Counselling Department to intensify sensitisation efforts aimed at motivating students to pursue science-related careers.

She also assured that her ministry would collaborate with the All Nigeria Conference of Principals of Secondary Schools to develop strategies for encouraging interest in science and technology subjects among students.

The training programme was organised by the Office of the Vice President in partnership with the North-East Development Commission. Godwin commended the initiative, noting that continuous teacher training is essential for improving classroom delivery, strengthening STEMA education, and enhancing learning outcomes.

Speaking, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Regional Development, Mariam Masha, said the programme targets teachers from Gombe, Bauchi, Borno, Yobe, Adamawa, and Taraba States.
She explained that the initiative aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu.

Masha added that the programme is designed to bridge educational gaps and equip teachers with digital and technical skills needed for effective teaching in a 21st-century economy.

“The programme enhances teachers’ capacity to integrate technology into teaching methods to boost education outcomes in the region,” she said.

Taraba raises alarm over shortage of science teachers