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The Director of Sports of the Students’ Union Government at the University of Cross River State, Solomon Nya, has reportedly died in a road accident alongside two others.

The crash, which occurred on the evening of May 1 in Odukpani, on the outskirts of Calabar, also left several other occupants with serious injuries.

An eyewitness who spoke with Vanguard said the Students’ Union Government President was among those injured and is currently receiving treatment at the emergency unit of the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, UCTH.

“The SUG President is unconscious as I speak with you now. He is in the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital emergency unit, and we pray he makes it,” the source said.

The eyewitness further disclosed that some of the injured victims sustained severe injuries, while the remains of the deceased, including the Director of Sports, have been deposited at the hospital’s mortuary.

Describing the incident as tragic, the source expressed concern over the condition of those injured, particularly the SUG President, who was said to have sustained critical injuries.

As of the time of filing this report, the university management had yet to issue an official statement on the incident, which occurred during a public holiday period.

Sports director UNICROSS, two others die in Odukpani fatal crash

Some youths of Mgbakwu community in Awka North Local Government Area of Anambra State have protested the alleged killing of a 26-year-old man identified as Chinyeaka Ike by operatives of the state’s Special Anti-Touting Squad.

The incident, which reportedly occurred around 8pm on Thursday in the area, ignited outrage among residents, particularly youths, who accused enforcement agencies of repeated harassment and extrajudicial actions.

The death generated strong emotions in the community, as he was the only son of his parents and had recently got married, with his wife expecting their first child next month.

In a show of anger, hundreds of aggrieved residents, mainly youths, marched from Mgbakwu to the Anambra State Government House in Awka on Friday, carrying the remains of the deceased alongside placards and green leaves in protest against the killing.

Their placards largely read, “End persistent intimidation and violence by state task forces.”

Speaking to journalists, the youths’ spokesperson, Arinze Nwoye, said operatives of SASA stormed the area and began apprehending young people indiscriminately.

Nwoye alleged that Ike and another youth attempted to flee but were pursued, with the deceased reportedly shot and later killed under brutal circumstances.

He said, “We want the state governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, to be aware of this development and tell us what to do because this is too much.

“This innocent soul that just died is a promising youth who was hardworking. What have we done to SASA and other agencies?

“We don’t want to take the law into our hands; that is why we are here to complain to the governor.

“We voted for him in both the first and second tenure; we don’t want SASA again in Mgbakwu community.”

A community leader, Chimaobi Egwu, shared footage of the deceased on social media, accusing the security groups of exceeding their mandate.

In a letter addressed to the governor and security agencies, Egwu described the agencies as a source of fear for residents.

He also referenced a similar incident in Mgbakwu less than a year ago involving the Udogachi group, suggesting a pattern of alleged abuse.

Other community members also echoed similar concerns, alleging that multiple security outfits, including SASA, frequently conduct raids that disrupt daily life and create an atmosphere of tension in the community.

The protesters called on Soludo to urgently review the activities of enforcement agencies in the state to prevent extrajudicial killings.

They stressed that law enforcement must operate within the ambit of the law, with respect for justice and human rights.

While addressing the protesters, the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Ben Nwankwo, described the situation as deeply troubling and extended the state government’s condolences to the bereaved family.

Nwankwo said, “This is a sad incident. The governor is not happy with this development. He is a peaceful leader who does not support or wish his citizens anything like this.

“He has directed that the police and DSS commence immediate investigation to unravel what transpired.

“We urge you to remain calm and refrain from taking the law into your own hands, assuring you that the government is committed to addressing the allegations.”

Similarly, the Special Adviser to the governor on Community Security, Ken Emeakayi, acknowledged the gravity of the situation.Ana

Emeakayi disclosed that representatives of the protesting youths would engage with government officials in a bid to resolve the matter.

Lagos-based socialite and entrepreneur, Emeka Okonkwo, widely known as E-Money, has honoured his pledge to reward comedian Carter Efe with N50 million following his victory over singer Habeeb Okikiola, popularly called Portable.

The prize was announced after Carter Efe defeated Portable via unanimous decision at the Chaos in the Ring 4 event, which took place at Balmoral Hall, Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos.

E-Money confirmed the cash reward at the end of the event after being prompted by the Chief Executive Officer of Balmoral Group Promotions, Ezekiel Adamu.

“You know we put our money where our mouth is, and so congratulations Carter on your win. N50 million for you,” he said.

Adamu also commended the event, describing it as a successful and entertaining show that lived up to expectations.

“We promised Chaos in the Ring and we have delivered very entertaining fights tonight. There is more coming, thanks to everyone that made this a success and to the fighters for the great display,” he said.

The celebrity bout between Carter Efe and Portable served as the headline attraction of the night, following weeks of heated exchanges and public challenges between both entertainers.

Portable had earlier expressed confidence ahead of the fight, boasting that he was on course to secure a third boxing belt after previous exhibition wins over Charles Okocha and Speed Darlington.

However, in the ring, Carter Efe took control of proceedings, leveraging his height and reach advantage to outclass the singer over three rounds.

At the end of the contest, all three judges scored the bout 27–30 in favour of the comedian, crowning him the latest celebrity boxing winner.

E-Money gifts Carter Efe N50m after victory over Portable

A chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Dr Adetokunbo Pearse, says there is no leadership crisis in the party.
Pearse made this statement on Saturday during an interview on Arise Television’s ‘Morning Show’.

He was speaking on the Supreme Court’s judgment, saying that the apex court upheld Sam Anyanwu, other people’s expulsion.

The PDP stalwart said, “Two matters concerning the PDP were before the Supreme Court: first, the validity of the Ibadan convention, and second, the expulsion of Sam Anyanwu and others.

“The ruling on the Ibadan convention did not go in our favour. However, in the second case, the Supreme Court has affirmatively upheld the expulsion of Anyanwu.

“The import of that judgment is that Anyanwu ceases to be a member of the party. With his removal, the Turaki-led faction lacks legitimate standing.

“By our constitution, the Board of Trustees will act as the National Working Committee. Within two days, the BOT will nominate a temporary NWC to lead the PDP into the election.”

No leadership crisis in PDP – Party Chieftain, Pearse

The governorship candidate of the African Democratic Congress, ADC, in Osun State, Najeem Salaam, has condemned divisions within the labour movement in the state, accusing the Accord and the All Progressives Congress, APC, of fueling disunity.

Salaam made the allegation in a statement signed by the Director-General of his Governorship Campaign Council, Segun Olanibi, a copy of which was obtained in Osogbo on Saturday.

The development followed a separate May Day celebration organised by a faction within the labour movement, the Association of Concerned Local Government Workers.

At the event which held at the Olorunda local government council area Secretariat, Igbona on Friday, the group urged political leaders across local government councils to demonstrate greater commitment to workers’ welfare.

The association also directed its members to support the candidate of the All Progressives Congress, Bola Oyebamiji, in the forthcoming governorship election and work towards his victory.

The rally featured participation from formal and informal workers dressed in uniform attire, with several presentations delivered.

Reacting, Salaam described the emergence of parallel celebrations allegedly aligned with political interests as troubling and detrimental to workers’ unity.

He said, “Workers’ Day is a moment of solidarity, not separation. It is a day to reflect on the dignity of labour, the struggles of workers, and our shared commitment to a better future.

“To see workers divided along political lines is both unfortunate and unacceptable.”

Salaam accused the Accord and the APC of exploiting divisions within the labour movement for political gain, warning that such actions weaken workers’ collective strength.

He noted that disunity undermines the ability of workers to demand accountability and improved welfare from those in authority.

The ADC candidate, however, assured workers that under his administration, labour unions would be respected and protected from political interference.

“My administration will restore unity within the labour movement by creating an enabling environment where workers can organise, engage and advocate freely, without fear or interference,” he said.

He added that his government would prioritise workers’ welfare, ensure prompt payment of salaries and pensions, and establish a transparent and inclusive system of engagement with labour groups.

ADC candidate blames APC, Accord for Osun labour division

The All Progressives Congress, APC, Chairman in Osun State, Tajudeen Lawal has lost his wife, Alhaja Fatimah Oreoluwa Lawal.

DAILY POST gathered that Alhaja Lawal died on Friday at the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital Complex, OAUTHC, Ile-Ife, after a brief illness.

The Osun APC, in a condolence message, signed by the Osun APC Director of Media and Information, Kola Olabisi on Saturday described her demise as a painful and irreparable loss, not only to the immediate Lawal family but also to the entire APC family in Osun State and beyond.

The party described Alhaja Lawal as a virtuous woman and a pillar of support to her husband.

The statement said, “The deceased was a virtuous woman, devoted Muslimah, a pillar of support to her husband, and a compassionate mother whose life reflected humility, kindness, and unwavering commitment to her family and humanity.

“We extend our heartfelt condolences to our state chairman, his nuclear and extended families and all those affected by this monumental loss.

“May Almighty Allah (SWT) forgive her shortcomings, grants her Al-Jannah Firdaus, and give the families she left behind the fortitude to bear this painful and irreparable loss.”

According to family sources, Alhaja Fatimah Oreoluwa Lawal will be buried in accordance with Islamic rites on Saturday in Ile-Ife.

Osun APC chairman lose wife, Alhaja Fatimah Oreoluwa Lawal

Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), have sustained offensive operations across the Theatre under Operation DESERT SANITY V, recording significant successes in ongoing counter-terrorism efforts, including the neutralisation of terrorists, arrest of suspects, and surrender of a terrorist member.

In a successful operation conducted in conjunction with members of Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), troops of OPHK engaged terrorists moving from Yale towards the Sambisa Forest axis. During the encounter, four terrorists were neutralised, while troops recovered one AK-47 rifle with ammunition, as well as food items suspected to be part of terrorist logistics supply. The troops returned safely to base with no casualties.

Similarly, sustained aggressive operations conducted by multiple units across key routes including Dambboa–Maiduguri, Dambboa–Gwoza, Goniri axis, and other likely infiltration corridors successfully denied terrorists freedom of movement and actions. 

In a related development, troops of OPHK deployed at Kanama arrested two suspected terrorist collaborators during a stop-and-search operation. The suspects were found in possession of items and materials, including clothing and personal effects, suspected to be linked to terrorist logistics support. Preliminary investigations also revealed incriminating digital materials suggesting possible affiliation with terrorist elements. The suspects are currently in custody for further investigation.

Furthermore, troops of OPHK  recorded the surrender of one suspected Boko Haram/ISWAP member at a checkpoint in Kukawa Local Government Area. The individual, who claimed to have been abducted earlier in the year and coerced into joining the terrorists group, is currently undergoing profiling and further investigation.

The Theatre Command reassures the public of its unwavering commitment to restoring lasting peace, security and economic stability in the North East region .The Command urges citizens to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies in the security and economic interest of the North East region. The Military High Command commends the troops for their gallantry and resilience while urging them to sustain the operational tempo. 

Former Chief Financial Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC), Alhaji Umar Ajiya, has emerged as the All Progressives Congress (APC) consensus candidate for the Sokoto East Senatorial District ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The development was confirmed on Saturday by the Chairman of his campaign team, the Ajiyan Sokoto Coordination Committee, Nasiru Yahaya Isa, a retired Permanent Secretary.

He said the decision was finalised late Friday after consultations among party stakeholders.

“Yes, he has been chosen as the consensus candidate for the APC. This was concluded last night,” Isa told THE WHISTLER.

In his acceptance speech delivered in Sokoto on Friday, Ajiya said his decision to contest followed months of consultations and appeals from party leaders, political associates, and constituents across the eight local government areas of the district.

According to him, the calls to run came from stakeholders at different levels of the APC, as well as community members who urged him to represent them at the National Assembly.

“Guided by the principle that the voice of the people is the voice of God, I have accepted the call to serve,” he said.

The Ajiyan Sokoto Coordination Committee, which formally announced his emergence, stated that Ajiya’s ambition is driven by a commitment to provide effective and people-oriented representation rather than personal gain.

Ajiya, who officially joined the APC in August 2025, reaffirmed his loyalty to the party leadership and pledged to run an inclusive, issue-based campaign.

He also called on political actors and supporters in Sokoto East to avoid divisive politics and prioritise unity.

“We must reject bitter politics and work together in peace for the progress of our district, Sokoto State, and Nigeria,” he added.

A businessman and philanthropist, Ajiya is known in Sokoto State for his community interventions, particularly in supporting vulnerable groups, promoting education, and contributing to local development initiatives.

Though relatively new to partisan politics, he is regarded by supporters as a grassroots mobiliser with strong ties across Sokoto East.

He holds a traditional title called Ajiyan Sokoto depicting his influence within the socio-cultural landscape of the state.

Ex-NNPC Finance Officer Emerges APC Consensus Senatorial Candidate For Sokoto East is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has commenced early preparations for flooding and other disasters in Rivers and Bayelsa, following the predictions of high flood risks in the states.

The Head of Operations, Port Harcourt Office of NEMA, Dr Chidi Ogunda, disclosed this during a stakeholders’ coordination meeting on disaster preparedness and response in Port Harcourt on Friday.

The meeting brought together stakeholders, including the Nigerian Police Force, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Federal Fire Service, Department of State Security, National Orientation Agency, Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, and the Nigerian Red Cross, among others.

Ogunda said the initiative was driven by the need to review past disasters, identify gaps, and strengthen collaboration among stakeholders to effectively mitigate the impending flooding.

“Disaster management is everybody’s business and, as such, requires all stakeholders to come together, deliberate, and develop strategies to manage disasters effectively,” he said.
He explained that the meeting aimed at fostering collaboration, sharing ideas, and strengthening response mechanisms across agencies and communities.

Ogunda said the 2026 National Flood Outlook identified 33 states and the FCT as high-risk areas, affecting 266 local government areas and 14,118 communities.

According to him, NEMA would soon commence training and capacity-building for stakeholders and communities to improve response to disasters.

“This meeting is to bring stakeholders together to share ideas and strategies on managing disasters within our jurisdictions.

“With these predictions, we must begin early preparation, build resilience, and ensure that all agencies are equipped to respond effectively,” he said.

He added that the agency would also engage and equip local actors, volunteers, and community leaders to respond promptly to the expected flooding.

The NEMA official said that Nigeria had moved from reactive disaster response to predictive and preventive strategies but needed to strengthen resilience.

He noted that since 2012, flooding had been recurrent in the country, stressing that efforts must go beyond response to building a resilient nation capable of mitigating disasters.
“Preparedness should not be limited to flooding alone but should be extended to fire outbreaks, road crashes, and other emergencies.

“Incidents occur daily and require coordinated responses from all relevant agencies,” he added.
Ogunda emphasised inter-agency collaboration, noting that different organisations had specific roles in disaster management.
Also speaking, the Area Commander, Choba Police Division, ACP Philip Udechukwu, said the police remained proactive in disaster response efforts.

He said that the police were always ready to assist and often take the lead, particularly during emergencies.
“Officers are often the first to respond to incidents, including fire outbreaks, even before relevant agencies arrive. Therefore, we are ready to assist,” he said.

Mr Nosakhare Obasohan, the officer in charge of Social Duty and External Relations, FRSC Rivers Command, said the corps was targeting a 10 per cent reduction in road crashes in 2026.
He said FRSC had trained community volunteers in post-crash care to provide first aid before the arrival of officials.
“We also operate a toll-free emergency number, 122, for reporting road crashes and other emergencies,” he stated.
A representative of the Federal Fire Service in Rivers, Superintendent Amadi Gift, said the agency had intensified sensitisation on fire prevention.
He called for stronger synergy among agencies to improve response to emergencies and reduce the impact of disasters.
“We do not wait for disasters. We visit homes, businesses, and institutions to educate them on fire safety and the use of equipment,” Gift said

NEMA Begins Early Flood Preparations In 2 High-Risk States is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

Former Minister of Transportation and a chieftain of the African Democratic Congress, ADC, Rotimi Amaechi has said his supporters have been directed not to engage in social media fights ahead of the ADC, presidential ticket contest.

Speaking in Lagos at the ADC Progressive Movement meeting, Amaechi opened up on why he is often attacked by the Obidents and Atiku supporters,

“My supporters don’t engage in fights on social media, My people don’t fight, have you seen any Amaechi person fighting on social media? it is between Atiku people and Obi people and Obi people abusing me we will never reply, he said.

“It’s not because we don’t know English or we can’t reply, the reason why we don’t reply is that we always want peace, the obidients insist ‘Obi or nothing’, do they have the numbers? that’s the question, he asked.

“The Atiku’s people say ‘Atiku or nothing’, do they have the numbers? you know there are things to say when you win. It becomes difficult to bring everybody together, so because we know we will win we’re not abusing anybody. So we can bring everybody together.

“So that question should not be asked to me because I am not abusing anybody. I am careful what I say, my team is under permanent instructions, don’t abuse anybody in ADC,” he stated.

Watch full video 

ADC: Amaechi reveals why his camp does not engage Atiku, Obi supporters