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African Democratic Congress, ADC, presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has said that the national interest of former Head of State, Abdulsalami Abubakar, gave Nigeria democracy in 1999.

Atiku made this remark in a post on his verified X handle on Saturday while celebrating Abdulsalami’s 84th birthday.

He said Abdulsalami’s unwavering commitment to peace, national unity, reconciliation, and democratic values has further distinguished him as a statesman of rare wisdom, courage, and moderation.

“At a critical period in our nation’s history, you placed national interest above personal ambition and guided the country through a peaceful transition that restored democratic governance. That singular act of statesmanship secured your place among the architects of modern Nigeria.

“Beyond that historic achievement, your unwavering commitment to peace, national unity, reconciliation, and democratic values has further distinguished you as a statesman of rare wisdom, courage, and moderation.

“Your life’s work continues to remind us that true leadership is measured not by power exercised, but by sacrifice rendered in service to one’s country.

“As you attain this new age, I have no doubt that you will continue to deploy your vast experience, moral authority, and voice in advancing peace, national cohesion, good governance, and democratic ideals in Nigeria and across Africa.

“I pray that Almighty God continues to bless you with good health, renewed strength, peace of mind, divine protection, and many more years of impactful service to humanity,” he wrote.

‘Your national interest gave us democracy’ – Atiku hails Abdulsalami at 84

The Umuekumenyi Leaders’ Council comprising two zones in Ebonyi State have disowned their son and Governor of Ebonyi state, Francis Nwifuru, instead backing the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, candidate, Ifeanyi Chukwuma Odii, in the 2027 governorship election.

The zones include Ohaukwu,Ishielu,Ebonyi Abakaliki, lzzi, Ikwo, Ezza South and Ezza North local government areas.

This was contained in a communiqué issued at the end of a stakeholders’ meeting held in Abakaliki on Saturday and signed by the council’s spokesperson,  Barrister Emmanuel Nwibo.

The council, which said it comprises community leaders, professionals, youth representatives, women leaders, stakeholders and citizens from the Umuekumenyi area, said the meeting was convened to review the socio-economic and political situation in Ebonyi State and chart a path forward.

According to the communiqué, members expressed concern over what they described as declining governance standards, economic hardship, youth unemployment and a perceived slowdown in developmental activities across the state.

The council argued that the future leadership of Ebonyi State should be determined by competence, capacity, vision, accountability and proven performance rather than considerations of zoning, political sentiment or geographical affiliation.

“The development and progress of Ebonyi State can no longer be subjected to trial-and-error leadership. The overriding criteria for leadership selection must be based on competence, integrity, vision and commitment to good governance,” the communiqué stated.

The council also called on the state government to address economic challenges confronting residents, including the rising cost of living, unemployment and declining business opportunities.

Members further urged greater transparency, accountability and public engagement in governance, noting what they described as a growing disconnect between government and the people.

The communiqué lamented what the council termed the abandonment of the developmental vision of Ebonyi State’s founding fathers and called on political leaders and stakeholders to recommit themselves to unity, development, fairness and inclusive governance.

On the 2027 governorship election, the council welcomed the emergence of aspirants from different parts of the state, describing the development as a positive sign for democracy.

It stressed that all aspirants should be thoroughly scrutinised to ensure that whoever emerges possesses the capacity to reposition the state and restore its developmental trajectory.

The council, however, singled out Chief Dr. Ifeanyichukwu Odii for special commendation, describing him as “the most credible alternative” for the state’s leadership at this critical period.

According to the council, Odii’s background in the private sector and his perceived leadership qualities place him in a strong position to drive economic growth and development in the state.

“After careful consideration, the council views Chief Dr. Ifeanyichukwu Odii as the most credible alternative at this moment in our history and hereby adopts him as its preferred candidate for the 2027 governorship election in Ebonyi State,” the communiqué stated.

The council encouraged Odii not to be discouraged by political opposition or criticism, urging him to remain focused on his political ambition.

In another resolution, the stakeholders announced the formal recognition of the Umuekumenyi Leaders’ Council as a socio-cultural platform dedicated to promoting the welfare, development, unity and cultural heritage of the Umuekumenyi people.

The body said it would serve as a platform for advocacy, community development, peacebuilding, leadership engagement and the promotion of good governance.

The council also called on sons and daughters of Umuekumenyi at home and in the diaspora to unite in pursuit of development, peace, economic advancement and responsible leadership.

Ebonyi 2027: Gov Nwifuru’s kinsmen back PDP candidate Odii

The election to fill chairmanship positions in the 21 local government areas and councillorship seats in the 226 political wards of Adamawa State on Saturday was marred by low voter turnout. 

There were also reported cases of inadequate or non-arrival of electoral materials, as well as alleged irregularities in some areas.

The election was, however, largely peaceful across the state, with no reports of violence or crisis in any of the hundreds of political wards.

Many who spoke on the exercise gave it a pass mark, including the incumbent Chairman of Yola North Local Government Area, Hon. Jibril Jimeta, who, at his Yelwa Ward, where he voted, said both turnout and deployment of materials were tolerable.

The chairman, who is contesting for a return for a second term, told journalists covering the election: “I agree that more people should have come out to vote, but even in general elections, voter apathy has long been a thing of concern.”

The election was conducted by the Adamawa State Independent Electoral Commission (ADSIEC).

The chairman of the commission, Alhaji Muhammed Umar, confirmed in a news interview that there were reports of late or non-arrival of election materials in some areas, despite efforts to ensure their timely distribution.

Umar, who spoke shortly before noon on Saturday, assured that checks were being carried out to verify such allegations and correct identified anomalies.

Low voter turnout, delayed electoral materials mar Adamawa LG polls

Residents and activists on Saturday converged along the Karu Bridge axis of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to protest worsening insecurity and demand rescue of teachers and pupils abducted from schools in Oyo State.

The protesters occupied sections of the busy highway linking Nyanya, Karu and the city centre, causing major traffic disruptions and completely blocking the carriageway leading towards Asokoro.

Video footage from the scene showed large crowds carrying placards and chanting solidarity songs as heavily armed security personnel, including police and military operatives, were deployed to maintain order.

Protesters Picket Abuja Bridge, Demand Oyo Teachers, Pupils’ Rescue pic.twitter.com/SpW7yj9rBi

— The Whistler Newspaper (@TheWhistlerNG) June 13, 2026

The demonstrators called on the Federal Government and security agencies to intensify efforts to secure the release of the abducted victims.

Many of the protesters expressed concern over the safety of schools, insisting that children should not be forced to learn under fear of abduction.

The protest comes weeks after armed men attacked schools in Ahoro-Esinle, Yawota and surrounding communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State on May 15, 2026.

During the attacks, about 46pupils and teachers were abducted from Community High School, Ahoro-Esinle, and Yawota Baptist Nursery and Primary School.

Among those abducted was a two-year-old child, Christianah Akanbi. One of the teachers, Michael Oyedokun, was later killed by the kidnappers.

The protesters carried placards calling for justice and the safe return of the victims, while accusing authorities of not doing enough to tackle kidnapping and violent crimes.

Security operatives formed a barricade around parts of the protest ground, while monitoring the situation as demonstrators continued their march.

The Federal Government has repeatedly assured Nigerians that efforts are ongoing to rescue the abducted teachers and pupils. FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, Vice President Kashim Shettima and other officials have said security agencies are working to secure the victims’ release.

As of the time of press, many of the abducted teachers and schoolchildren remained in captivity.

The protesters said they would continue to demand action until the victims are safely reunited with their families.

VIDEO: Protesters Picket Abuja Bridge, Demand Oyo Teachers, Pupils’ Rescue is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

Fidelis Ilechukwu has signed a new one-year deal with Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL, champions Rangers, DAILY POST reports.

The new contract put an end to speculations over Ilechukwu’s future at the Coal City club.

The 47-year-old was rumoured to be on his way out of Rangers after guiding the club to their ninth NPFL title in the 2025/26 season.

DAILY POST recalls, the young tactician also led the Flying Antelopes to win their eight title in the 2023/24 season.

Ilechukwu was appointed Rangers  head coach in 2023, after leaving oriental rivals, Heartland.

He is also a member of the Super Eagles’ technical crew, serving as one of the assistant coaches of the Nigerian national team.

NPFL: Ilechukwu signs new one-year contract with Rangers

The Osun State Coordinator of the National Youth Service Corps, NYSC, Ekeng Ita Kubiangha, has urged prospective corps members for the 2026 Batch ‘B’ Stream I Orientation Course to embrace discipline, patriotism and active participation throughout their service year.

Speaking during an official briefing at the NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp in Ede on Saturday, Kubiangha welcomed the corps members and congratulated them on their successful mobilisation.

He described the orientation course as a vital stage in preparing participants for effective national service and personal growth.

“The Orientation Course is one of the four cardinal programmes of the NYSC Scheme and it is designed to instil discipline, leadership qualities, teamwork, self-reliance and a spirit of national unity among participants,” he said.

Kubiangha stated that the NYSC scheme remained an important platform for fostering national integration, promoting cultural understanding and contributing to national development and encouraged the corps members to take full advantage of the activities lined up for the three-week programme.

According to him, “the orientation activities include drills, lectures, sporting events, citizenship and leadership training, as well as the Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme.”

He noted that the SAED initiative offers corps members opportunities to acquire vocational and entrepreneurial skills capable of enhancing self-employment and wealth creation.

On welfare and security, the State Coordinator assured participants of the management’s commitment to their safety and well-being throughout the orientation exercise.

He advised them to promptly report health challenges or security concerns to camp officials and make adequate use of the medical facilities available on camp.

“We are committed to your welfare and security. You should remain security conscious at all times and avoid actions capable of exposing you to unnecessary risks,” Kubiangha said.

The coordinator who addressed issues relating to relocation, places of primary assignment and service procedures stressed that posting to places of primary assignment is strictly based on established guidelines and is free of charge.

He warned corps members against attempting to influence postings through monetary inducement or unofficial channels and emphasised the importance of discipline and proper conduct.

While warning that violations of camp rules and regulations could attract sanctions, including appearance before the Camp Court or decamping, he urged the corps members to uphold the values and integrity of the NYSC and to conduct themselves as worthy ambassadors of their institutions and families.

Osun NYSC coordinator urges corps members to embrace discipline, patriotism

British No.1 Emma Raducanu shrugged off a “tough” injury scare as she battled into the Queen’s Championships semi-finals on Saturday.

Raducanu beat Uzbekistan’s Kamilla Rakhimova 6-3 7-5 in a match delayed by a day after heavy rain in west London, which means she will have to also play her semi-final, against American teenager Iva Jovic, later the same day.

She needed three match points to see off world No 78 Rakhimova in a tense service game, screaming with delight as she booked her place in the last four – which will feature two Brits, after Katie Boulter sealed her biggest win by ranking, over world No 2 and Australian Open champion Elena Rybakina, late on Friday.

The 23-year-old said: “It was a match of ups and downs, I’m really grateful for the support I had in some really tough moments, and closing out that second set.”

The victory signals Raducanu’s return to the sharp, aggressive baseline tennis that fueled her hard-court final appearance in February. By maintaining her unblemished set record this week, she establishes herself as a formidable contender heading into the tournament’s concluding stages.

Raducanu Battles Into Queen’s Semi-Finals Despite Injury Scare is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

Ex- Ivorien International, Yaya Toure has been appointed as manager of Slovakian giants Slovan Bratislava, the club confirmed on Saturday.

The 43-year-old Yaya Toure, put pen to paper on a three-year contract in the Slovakian capital.

“I’m very happy and excited; honestly, I can’t wait for us to get to work together on Monday,” Toure said in a club statement.

“I want to build on that while also bringing something new and unique of my own. Football is everything to me. I love challenges and am incredibly excited to coach a great club with a rich history, a beautiful stadium, and high ambitions.”

The Slovan Bratislava job will be Toure’s first as the head coach of a senior team after retiring in 2020. Toure has previously worked as an assistant at Olimpik Donetsk in Ukraine, Akhmat Grozny in Russia, Standard Liege in Belgium, and most recently with the Saudi Arabian national team alongside Roberto Mancini, under whose tutelage Toure won the Premier League with Manchester City in 2012.

Club chairman Ivan Kmotrik Jr. called the appointment of Yaya Toure the beginning of a new era for the 24-time Nike Liga winners.

“I am very pleased that Yaya Toure is our new head coach,” Smotrik said.

“I am glad we agreed on a three-year contract and that together, we will begin building a new era for Slovan Bratislava. My goal was to bring in someone with the experience at the highest level of world football – and who is also highly motivated to make a name for himself as a coach.”

Toure faces a tough start, as Slovan Bratislava will find out their opponent for the Champions League second qualifying round at the draw in Nyon on June 17th.

Slovanian Club Slovan Bratislava Appoint Yaya Toure As Manager is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

Presidential candidate representing the National Rescue Movement, NRM, Esther Okereke, has asserted that June 12 should not merely be regarded as a date on the calendar.

Okereke emphasized that 33 years ago, Nigerians from all tribes and faiths united not for a political party, but for a shared vision.

The presidential hopeful spoke in a statement released to mark the June 12 Democracy Day.

She stated that Chief MKO Abiola, Kudirat Abiola, China Ubani, Gani Fawehinmi, Beko Ransom-Kuti, and countless unnamed Nigerian student leaders, journalists, and civil rights activists who faced the threat of violence did not sacrifice their lives for mere rhetoric, but for a Nigeria where children can learn without fear, mothers can heal without begging, and young men can find employment without relying on connections.

“If we forget them, we dishonor their memory. Therefore, today we remember. However, remembrance without action is merely lamentation. And Nigeria has grown weary of lamenting,” she expressed in a statement she personally signed on Friday.

“My fellow citizens, I will not deceive you. Democracy is in distress,” she continued.

“The court you seek for justice may sometimes fail to deliver it. The vote you cast in hope may sometimes vanish along the way. The market where a mother sells garri sees her profits consumed by inflation before the day ends.

“Having 100 million Nigerians living in poverty is not just a statistic. That is my neighbor. That is the orphan I assisted last week. That is you and me! If I stand here and pretend that everything is fine, I would be lying.

“But Nigeria can thrive again. Not through magic, but through hard work. Hope is not merely wishing. Hope is making a decision. And I have made my decision; you should too.

“I am not asking for your blood. I am asking for your commitment today, just one more sacrifice. To the youth: Do not flee Nigeria. Flee from fear. Your skills in coding, your music, your entrepreneurial spirit — that is the new oil.

“To the civil servants: Serve with pride once more.

To the diaspora: Return home. Not out of pity, but in partnership, with your collective determination.

“My fellow Nigerians, the heroes of June 12 did not perish so that we could engage in arguments on social media. They sacrificed so that we could collaborate effectively.”

‘Democracy is in distress’ – NRM presidential candidate, Esther Okereke

DEFENCE HEADQUARTERS MOURNS THE PASSING OF RETIRED MAJOR GENERAL RABE ABUBAKAR, REAFFIRMS RESOLVE TO ERADICATE TERRORISM

The Defence Headquarters regrets to announce the passing of Major General Rabe Abubakar (Retired), who tragically lost his life in captivity following his abduction.

The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) convey its deepest sympathies to the Abubakar family, his colleagues and all Nigerians. Maj Gen Abubakar served the nation with distinction and held many appointments including spokesperson of various military formations as well as spokesman for the AFN as Director Defence Information. He made immense contributions to counter-insurgency operations, professional development of the AFN and numerous other commendable and outstanding impacts. His commitment to duty and to the unity of Nigeria remains a shining example for all personnel of the AFN.

The Defence Headquarters withheld public comment on his abduction in deference to ongoing rescue efforts by the AFN and sister security agencies. Every operational resource was deployed in the hope of securing his safe return.

This sad loss further strengthens the resolve of the AFN. We will remain resolute in the discharge of our constitutional mandate to defend the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Nigeria and to protect all citizens. 

In response to series of unfortunate abductions across Nigeria including that of Maj Gen Abubakar, ongoing operations have since been further intensified to bring perpetrators to justice and to dismantle all terrorist networks threatening our nation.

We assure Nigerians that the Armed Forces will not relent until peace and security are restored and those responsible for terrorists activities across the nation are held to account.

SAMAILA UBA

Major General

Director Defence Information

13 June 2026