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The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has fixed May 12 for the inauguration of its newly elected state Executive Committees.

The move is a reaffirmation of the party’s resolve to forge ahead with activities outlined in its timetable, despite ongoing legal and institutional challenges.

Recall that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), had on April 1, delisted the ADC leadership from its records, a decision that could render all activities of the party nugatory if the court upholds INEC’s decision.

But the ADC, in a statement on Sunday by its spokesman, Bolaji Abdullahi, said the party would proceed with the inauguration of the Excos, elected at state congresses on Saturday.

The party congratulated the newly elected Excos on the peaceful conduct of their congresses, describing the process as a reflection of the party’s commitment to internal democracy and the rule of law.

The ADC also urged the officials to remain committed to the party’s ideals and align with the leadership direction of its National Chairman, Senator David Mark, as they work to strengthen the party nationwide.

“These elections, carried out in line with the provisions of the law and the party’s constitution, reflect the ADC’s enduring commitment to internal democracy, transparency, and the rule of law.

“We commend all party members and stakeholders for exercising their democratic rights with maturity, discipline, and a shared sense of purpose.

“As you prepare to assume office, we urge all elected officials to remain steadfast in their dedication to the ideals and vision of the party. The task ahead requires unity, discipline, and a continued commitment to building a strong, credible alternative for the Nigerian people,” it added.

The ADC restated confidence in the newly elected leaders of the state chapters, stressing that the party will continue to grow, deepen its structures, and strengthen its connection with citizens across the country.

The party leadership said it would communicate with all stakeholders should there be any need to alter the May 12 date fixed for the inauguration.

ADC To Inaugurate State Excos May 12 Amid Legal Challenges is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

Former presidential candidate, Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, has said there’s mass killings under the current government that’s suppressed and underreported.

Speaking in a statement on Sunday, the politician warned that growing global silence reflects a dangerous devaluation of human lives.

Gbenga-Hashim said the persistent attacks in several parts of the country point to a worsening security crisis that is failing to attract the attention it deserves both locally and internationally.

He lamented that the true scale of the killings was being “dangerously underreported and increasingly normalised.”

He cited recent attacks in Shanga Local Government Area of Kebbi State, where more than 40 persons were reportedly killed within the past week.

According to him, local sources indicate that the casualty figure may be higher as fresh bodies are discovered, with homes also razed during the attacks.

He added that the same community had earlier suffered another assault that claimed at least seven lives, describing the situation as persistent and largely unchecked.

“What we are witnessing is a pattern of mass killings that fail to sustain national outrage or global attention,” Hashim said.

He also drew attention to similar attacks in Kwara State, particularly in Kaiama, Baruten and Ifelodun, where between 20 and 50 people were reportedly killed in recent weeks.

The politician noted that the victims included five forest guards, adding that many of the incidents barely received coverage beyond local reporting channels.

Across the North-Central region, he said, the scale of violence remained alarming, citing repeated killings in Benue State and Plateau State.

He disclosed that Benue recorded between 50 and 100 deaths within weeks, while Plateau witnessed coordinated night attacks that left between 30 and 80 persons dead.

Olawepo-Hashim further stated that Niger State and Nasarawa State also recorded fatalities ranging from 20 to 50 and 10 to 20 respectively.

He said, in total, between 130 and 300 people may have been killed within a short period across the affected regions.

Describing the situation as alarming, he said the killings were being met with “selective attention and dangerous silence” by the global community.

Hashim criticised the muted response of institutions such as the United Nations and the African Union.

“There is a growing perception that Nigerian lives have been so devalued that even routine expressions of condolence are no longer made,” he said.

Killings In Nigeria Suppressed, Underreported Under Tinubu – Olawepo-Hashim is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

Isoko women on Sunday has endorsed Nigeria Democratic Party (NDC) senatorial hopeful, Dr. Austin Orette, noting that he his a key factor in the Process of realizing a better Delta South.

 The group in a statement signed by its Chairperson, Mrs. Elizabeth Oghenemaro siad, “We have a huge task ahead. The 2027 election in Delta South Senatorial District is another occasion to prove to ourselves that we can do it. We need to start planning for NDC electoral success’’

“We rebuked those canvassing for power shift in strong language”

” Orette’s devotion to moral purity, capacity for honesty and the critical need to work together in view of moving the senatorial district to the next level.

‘’Dr. Austin Orette is an exceptional leader and a protector of the pillars of justice, democracy and integrity. He will create and sustain the conditions for individual development”

‘’Dr. Austin Orette has political credibility and strong network across the world. He will promote trade, develop infrastructure and ensure security”

The women underscored Orette’s competence, commitment to the welfare of the people, principles of order and justice and the courage in pursuing issues of interest to the people of Delta South Senatorial District.

‘’The renowned physician is hardworking, honest, suave and accommodating. He is in the best position to serve the senatorial district’’

The women applauded Orette for promoting the interest of the oil rich district.

‘’What is happening in the district mirrors a situation of desperation of some individuals and groups to take advantage of falsehood to misguide the good people of the district as well as score cheap political goals’’

They urged Itsekiri, Ijaw, Isoko and Urhobo leaders not to devote time, energy and resources in championing the aspiration of a man who has been a perpetual bench warmer in the National Assembly.

‘’Four years of wasted opportunities are enough. The ego of the disappointing lawmaker will be deflated. He should await the people’s dirge in 2027’’ the women said.

The women emphasized legislative output, empowerment, grassroots development and efforts in attracting development projects and infrastructure to the district.

‘’Dr. Austin Orette will be active in the senate. He will contribute to lawmaking, debates and committee activities. He will also expand the prosperity of the good people of Delta South Senatorial District’’

The post Isoko women endorse Austin Orette  appeared first on Vanguard News.

Hundreds of Christian ministers from across Urhobo land on Saturday converged in Ughelli North Local Government Area of Delta State, where they unanimously reaffirmed their endorsement of Revd Francis Ejiroghene Waive for re-election into the House of Representatives.

The endorsement was made during the 2026 Annual Day of Prayers and Thanksgiving organised by the Urhobo Christian Ministers Association, held at Agbarho Model Primary School field (L.E.A), Agbarho.

In his presidential welcome address, Archbishop Solomon Gbakara urged ministers to remain united in truth and love, stressing the need for harmony within the body of Christ.

The association also distanced itself from what it described as a “purported endorsement” of another politician allegedly carried out by some pastors, insisting that Waive remains the authentic choice of the church ahead of the forthcoming elections.

The gathering also endorsed Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, commending his administration’s developmental strides and support for Christian communities in the state.

Special prayers were offered for the peace and progress of Urhobo land, as well as for Governor Oborevwori, Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and Delta Central lawmaker, Senator Ede Dafinone, who was present at the event.

The state governor was represented by the Deputy Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Arthur Akpowowo.

Delivering the sermon themed “God Is Able,” Revd Waive, who cited Ephesians 3:20, encouraged church leaders to place their trust in God and remain steadfast in their faith.

He cautioned against compromising values, noting that divine provision remains sufficient for believers.

Traditional ruler, the Osuivie of Agbarho, in his remarks, praised Waive’s performance at the National Assembly, expressing confidence that the Urhobo nation would return him to the Green Chamber.

He further urged citizens to remain prayerful and uphold godly values.

Other clerics, including Bishop Kingsley Enakirheri and Bishop Blessing Eriafeta, encouraged Waive not to relent, while charging the congregation to remain hopeful and committed to God.

Prayers were also led by prominent clerics such as Archbishop Goddowell Avwomakpa and Bishop Chris Okoh, among others.

The event drew an extensive list of clergy, political figures, and community leaders, underscoring what organisers described as a strong spiritual and communal backing for Waive’s continued representation.

The post 2027: Urhobo clergymen reaffirm support for waive, back Oborevwori at prayer gathering appeared first on Vanguard News.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Sunday called his Iranian counterpart Masoud Pezeshkian, offering support to help resolve the escalating Middle East crisis following the collapse of talks between Iran and the United States.

“Vladimir Putin emphasised his readiness to further facilitate the search for a political and diplomatic settlement to the conflict, and to mediate efforts to achieve a just and lasting peace in the Middle East,” the Kremlin said in its readout of the call, according to AFP.

The development came as the entire US negotiating team withdrew from failed discussions in Islamabad, with no officials remaining in the Pakistani capital to continue back-channel efforts, a US official confirmed.

Officials said the delegation, including chief negotiators Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, departed after marathon talks yielded no meaningful progress on the conflict involving Iran.

During a stopover at Ramstein Air Base in Germany, a US official travelling with Vice President JD Vance said no members of the team stayed behind, despite earlier speculation that further negotiations might continue.

Iran’s parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said Washington failed to build trust during the discussions.

“My colleagues in the Iranian delegation put forward constructive initiatives, but the other side was unable to gain the trust of the Iranian delegation,” he said in a post on X.

Vanguard News

The post Putin calls Iran president, offers help as US talks collapse appeared first on Vanguard News.

UK government minister Wes Streeting on Sunday said it was “disappointing” that negotiations between the United States and Iran in Islamabad had stalled, adding that US President Donald Trump’s earlier social media comments had been “incendiary”.

“It’s obviously disappointing that we haven’t yet seen a breakthrough in negotiations and an end to this war in Iran that is a sustainable one,” Streeting told Sky News.

“As ever in diplomacy, you’re failing, until you succeed. So while these talks may not have ended in success, that doesn’t mean there isn’t merit in continuing to try,” the health minister added.

Streeting also criticised Trump’s rhetoric during the crisis.

“Over the course of the past week, President Trump has said some pretty bold… incendiary, provocative, outrageous things on social media,” he said.

“I don’t think it’s controversial to say posting on social media a threat to end the Iranian civilisation, really… (is) quite extraordinary,” he added.

Trump and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer have traded barbs over Iran, with Trump complaining the British leader “hasn’t been supportive” of the war in the Middle East and also remarking that “this is not Winston Churchill that we’re dealing with”.

Streeting said the UK would continue to judge Trump by what he did rather than what he said.

“Ultimately, the only way in which we’re going to clear this situation up is to reach agreement with Iran, one that puts nuclear weapons beyond its ambitions and reach,” he added.

Starmer and the Sultan of Oman, meanwhile, urged the US and Iran to press on with negotiations.

During a call on Sunday, Starmer and Haitham bin Tariq “discussed the peace talks held in Pakistan over the weekend and urged both sides to find a way through”, according to a readout issued by the UK leader’s office.

“It was vital there was a continuation of the ceasefire, and that all parties avoided any further escalation, the leaders agreed,” Downing Street added.

The post UK minister says ‘disappointing’ no breakthrough in Iran war talks appeared first on Vanguard News.

.As party holds state congress

By Emmanuel Iheaka 

OWERRI – Former governor of Imo State, Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha has declared that the African Democratic Party (ADC) is set to embark on door-to-door sensitisation aimed at taking over the state in the 2027 general elections.

Ihedioha spoke, Saturday, during the state congress of the party held at the Kanu Nwankwo Sports Complex, Owerri.

The erstwhile governor said more than 200,000 persons have registered with ADC in the state.

He expressed optimism that the elected officers of the party will give their best towards achieving the aim.

In his remarks, the leader of the party in the state and another two-time governor, Chief Achike Udenwa, submitted that Imo is among the strongest chapters of the party in the country.

Udenwa noted that the ward and local government congresses of the party held without rancour, describing it as commendable.

He urged members to remain committed to the ideals of the party and the bid to make Imo better.

National Vice Chairman of ADC (South East), Sir Bon Unachukwu said the congresses have set the stage for anticipated victory in the coming elections in Imo.

He remarked that the ward and local government congresses were peaceful and orderly .

The party in a voice affirmation vote reelected Prof. James Okoroma as Chairman.

Barr Gregory Ihejirika emerged as State Secretary, while MacDonald Amadi was elected as Publicity Secretary, among other officers.

The post 2027: ADC now set to battle it out in Imo –  Ihedioha  appeared first on Vanguard News.

The people of Afikpo/Edda federal constituency, Ebonyi State, have warned aspirants for various positions and politicians from the zone to restore power supply to the area or forget about the 2027 election.

A coalition of civil rights groups in the constituency tabled the demand to political office holders from the area, including the member representing Afikpo/Edda Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Chief Iduma Igariwey, the Deputy Governor, Princess Patricia Obila, members in the State Assembly and other politicians and aspirants.

The groups, Afikpo Intelligentsia in the Diaspora, AID), RestoreAfikpoLight Campaigners Abroad and Odinma Afikpo Group, OAG, made the demand while reacting to a statement recently credited to Igariwey in which he maintained that it is not the responsibility of lawmakers to fund power projects.

The lawmaker said the online criticisms that have trailed the over two decades of darkness particularly in his ancient Ehugbo community were borne out of ignorance.

Leaders of the groups, Charles Otu, representing Odinma Afikpo Group, Olughu Franklin Nnamdi, Afikpo Intelligentsia in the Diaspora, and Collins Alum Eze, RestoreAfikpoLight Campaigners Abroad, noted that the 1999 Constitution (as amended), the Electricity Act 2023, and the Electricity Act (Amendment) 2025 gave federal lawmakers some ample and adequate tools to force action from those who can generate electricity.

The groups expressed concern that for over 20 years, there has been no electricity in Afikpo LGA, noting that the lawmaker, Igariwey ought to have moved a Motion of Urgent Public Importance on the floor of the House of Representatives concerning the issue.

Parts of the statement read, “We strongly commend him however that in the year 2020, our lawmaker, the same Hon. Igariwey, had caused an appearance to be made before the House Committee on Power, summoning the leadership of the Transmission Company of Nigeria, (TCN) to a public hearing wherein he poured out the anger and frustration of his constituents over the nearly two decades of darkness in his community.

“However, we were thoroughly disappointed that nearly six years after the 2020 ‘summon’ of TCN, no words have ever come from the lawmaker regarding a follow up on the darkness that has become a deeply growing concern among his constituents he has represented for about 12 unbroken years.

“Anticipatedly, the people of Afikpo and Edda which are both highly urban with many educated elites and personalities had long waited patiently that since 2015 when _Okpudo_ as Igariwey is favouritely called ought to have inserted a specific line item for the Amasiri-Afikpo transmission line in the Appropriation Bill and follow up same until the money is released and spent.

“He could have also filed formal petitions to NERC and the Rural Electrification Agency to put Afikpo on the priority list. We believe, contrary to Igariwey’s posturings, that these are all within his constitutional powers of representation, oversight and appropriation especially within the powers of a ranking lawmaker like him who surely knows his way in and out of the National Assembly.

“As a coalition, we rightly insist and agree with those who have argued that after 12 whopping years in the House, Afikpo deserves the full weight of Okpudo’s legislative office and actions – not just appeals behind closed doors, but motions on record, committee hearings, and budget insertions that compel federal agencies to answer in public.

“Rather, what we have witnessed in return is the unarguable fact that the lawmaker has totally avoided all foras called by the people for him to give account of his stewardship on the pressing subject matter like other politicians had done in the past.”

20 years of darkness: Ebonyi community declares ‘no light, no campaigns’

The Christian community in Bauchi State on Sunday gathered in churches across the state to offer prayers for peace, unity and peaceful coexistence. The prayer sessions were held in line with directives from the State Ministry of Religious Affairs and Community Development following a recent stakeholders’ meeting. The exercise focused on seeking divine intervention for […]

By Kingsley Omonobi

Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) at the weekend arrested a 93-year-old man and a 69-year-old medical doctor among other suspects during a nationwide crackdown on drug cartels.

Director of Media and Advocacy, Femi Babafemi, said the operations were intelligence-led and carried out across several states.

In one operation, a nonagenarian, Pa Friday Ahukanna Chigbu, was arrested at his home in Abia State, where 7.7kg of skunk was recovered. He reportedly admitted long-term use before turning to the trade.

The agency also arrested an Ivorian, Gohouri Michael, at the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport with 1.49kg of cocaine. A follow-up operation led to the arrest of a 69-year-old doctor, Dr Chudi Daniel Ofomata, in Ogun State, with drugs recovered from him.

In Ogun, three suspects were arrested with 34kg of skunk, while a female suspect was caught with 56.2kg in Imo State.

NDLEA operatives in Niger State arrested a couple with 118kg of skunk in their home, while in Borno, large quantities of Rohypnol, codeine syrup and injections were intercepted, leading to another arrest.

In Lagos, operatives intercepted 15kg of “Loud” cannabis in a commercial bus and seized 26,800 bottles of codeine syrup in another operation, arresting multiple suspects.

A raid in Abuja led to the arrest of eight suspects and seizure of over 11kg of skunk.

In Edo State, two trucks carrying a combined 7,245kg of skunk were intercepted, with five suspects arrested.

NDLEA said its War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) advocacy campaign also continued nationwide, targeting schools and communities.

Chairman of the agency, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), commended officers across commands for the arrests and seizures.

The post NDLEA arrests 93-year-old, doctor in nationwide drug crackdown appeared first on Vanguard News.