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The United States Department of State has intensified enforcement actions against what it describes as illegal “birth tourism” schemes aimed at securing American citizenship for children through visitor visas.

This was disclosed in a statement posted via the department’s official X handle on Wednesday.

“Under President Trump, the State Department is defending the integrity of U.S. citizenship by ending illegal birth tourism schemes.

“No foreigner is permitted to obtain a visitor visa for the primary purpose of acquiring U.S. citizenship for a child by giving birth in the U.S.

“A U.S. embassy in West Africa uncovered a sophisticated birth tourism network involving more than 100 foreign nationals using fraudulent documents and visa ‘fixers’ to obtain visas in order to secure U.S. citizenship for their children.

“We shut it down, revoked these foreign nationals’ visas, and are coordinating with local authorities to systematically identify and dismantle similar operations.

“In Europe, a U.S. embassy identified more than 400 suspected birth tourism cases since 2024. Investigators traced them to at least six companies that coached applicants on what to say during their visa interviews, arranged U.S. housing, and set up delivery plans.

“We shut it down, revoked their visas, and permanently banned several fraudsters from travelling to the United States.

“One U.S. embassy in North Africa revoked more than 100 visas issued to ‘birth tourist’ parents who came to the United States primarily to give birth so their children could obtain U.S. citizenship.

“Consular officers, working with law enforcement and using data analytics, identified several networks abusing the system and put a stop to them.

“A U.S. visa is a privilege, not a right. The State Department is taking action around the world to stop this abuse, dismantle birth tourism networks, and hold accountable those who try to scam our system,” the statement said.

US launches global crackdown on illegal ‘birth tourism’, revokes visas in Africa

…Denies Dodging Probe, Pledges To Appear After Treatment

A former Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kyari, has reacted to the Senate Committee on Public Accounts’ decision to issue an arrest warrant against him, describing the development as “deeply shocking.”

In a formal response seen by THE WHISTLER addressed to the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Public Accounts at the National Assembly, Abuja, Kyari said he had earlier communicated with the committee regarding his inability to appear due to medical travel abroad.

“I refer to the news of the arrest warrant issued against me during the proceedings of your esteemed Committee today, 10th June, 2026. I am deeply shocked by the issuance of the warrant,” he wrote.

Kyari stated that his position was consistent with a letter previously sent to the committee on May 11, 2026, in which he reportedly informed lawmakers that he was outside the country on medical grounds.

According to him, the earlier correspondence also conveyed his willingness to honour the committee’s invitation upon his return to Nigeria, while requesting the option of providing written responses to any questions that may require urgent attention.

“I also expressed my willingness to honour the Committee’s invitation as soon as I return to Nigeria,” he noted, adding that he had further requested permission to respond in writing should his medical trip affect the committee’s schedule.

Reiterating his position, Kyari maintained that he had not sought to evade the Senate’s invitation and insisted he remained fully cooperative with the legislative inquiry.

“I wish to reiterate that I remain very willing and ready to honour the invitation of the Committee and to appear before it once I return to the country and at the convenience of the Committee,” he said.

The Senate Committee on Public Accounts had earlier issued an arrest warrant against Kyari following his absence during its sitting, where it is probing financial issues linked to the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited.

In the May 11 letter issued by Kyari to th3 Committee’s Chairman, the immediate past NNPC Boss had denied deliberately avoiding the Senate Committee on Public Accounts, insisting that he never received any fresh invitation from the panel before it issued an arrest warrant against him.

Kyari, who is currently undergoing medical treatment outside Nigeria, said he remains willing to appear before the Senate committee immediately after concluding his medical care abroad.

The Senate committee had reportedly resolved to issue the warrant after expressing dissatisfaction with Kyari’s absence from its proceedings.

The motion seeking the issuance of the arrest warrant was moved by Senator Victor Umeh and seconded by Senator Adams Oshiomhole during one of the committee’s hearings.

The lawmakers are investigating issues relating to NNPC Limited’s financial records, including allegations involving over ₦210tn currently under legislative scrutiny.

However, Kyari maintained that he had not been served with any subsequent invitation requiring his appearance before the committee.

“I am made to understand that your distinguished Committee directed that I appear before it in respect of matters relating to the account of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Limited) during my tenure as Group Managing Director/Group Chief Executive Officer,” he stated.

“However, I wish to respectfully state that I have neither received nor sighted the said invitation.”

The former NNPC chief stressed that had the invitation reached him, he would have willingly honoured it.

“Notwithstanding this, I would have gladly honoured the invitation and appeared before the Committee to provide any clarification required,” Kyari added.

His explanation appears aimed at dispelling suggestions that he deliberately ignored the Senate committee or sought to evade legislative oversight.

Kyari further disclosed that his current medical condition has prevented him from appearing physically before the committee.

According to him, he is presently outside the country receiving critical medical care, making it impossible to attend the hearing at this time.

“Unfortunately, I am presently outside the country undergoing critical medical care and, due to these circumstances, I am unable to attend physically at this time,” he explained.

Despite his inability to appear in person, the former NNPC Group Chief Executive Officer assured the Senate of his full cooperation with the investigation.

He urged the committee to channel any questions or requests for clarification through his legal representatives to facilitate prompt responses.

“In view of the foregoing, I humbly request that my Counsel be furnished with any questions or inquiries the Honourable Committee may wish to raise, to enable me promptly provide the necessary explanations and clarifications,” he stated.

The request, observers say demonstrates his willingness to engage with the investigative process even while receiving treatment abroad.

Kyari also assured the lawmakers that he remains committed to appearing before the committee personally as soon as his health condition permits.

“I wish to assure the distinguished Committee of my utmost respect and willingness to make myself available at the earliest possible opportunity,” he said.

The former NNPC boss used the opportunity to express appreciation to Nigeria for the privilege of serving in one of the country’s most strategic institutions.

“I remain deeply grateful to my country for the opportunity afforded me to serve with utmost diligence and commitment,” he stated.

Kyari also defended his stewardship of the national oil company, insisting that his administration recorded significant achievements during its tenure.

He maintained that under his leadership, NNPC Limited underwent major reforms that transformed it from a loss-making enterprise into a profitable commercial entity.

“I firmly believe that under my leadership, my team and I performed creditably in transforming the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited from a loss-making entity into a profitable organization,” he said.

The former NNPC Boss further reassured the Senate committee that all transactions conducted during his tenure were properly documented and remain available for scrutiny.

“Furthermore, proper records of all transactions undertaken during my tenure were duly maintained and remain available within the NNPC for verification and reference,” Kyari noted.

His clarification comes amid growing public interest in the Senate’s investigation into the financial affairs of NNPC Limited.

The Public Accounts Committee had repeatedly emphasized its commitment to transparency, accountability and effective legislative oversight in the management of public institutions.

Lawmakers have insisted that all individuals and agencies connected to issues under investigation must cooperate fully with the National Assembly to ensure public confidence in governance processes.

However, Kyari’s latest response suggests that his non-appearance before the committee may have been influenced by communication gaps regarding subsequent invitations, rather than an outright refusal to honour the Senate’s summons.

Sources familiar with the matter also maintained that the former NNPC boss has no intention of evading accountability and remains prepared to respond to all issues relating to his tenure.

The sources noted that Kyari believes engaging with the committee through his legal representatives while receiving medical treatment abroad represents a practical interim arrangement until he is fit enough to travel.

Observers noted that the former NNPC chief’s willingness to cooperate and his request for the committee to furnish his legal team with specific enquiries could provide an avenue for constructive engagement between both parties.

While the investigation continues, Kyari has maintained that he remains respectful of the Senate and its constitutional oversight responsibilities.

He insists that he has nothing to hide regarding his stewardship of NNPC Limited and remains committed to providing every clarification required by lawmakers.

With his assurance to appear immediately after concluding his medical treatment abroad, the former NNPC chief has sought to reinforce his readiness to cooperate with the ongoing investigation while addressing concerns arising from his absence before the Senate panel.

Kyari Reacts To Senate Arrest Warrant, Says He Notified Committee Of Medical Trip Abroad is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

Flutterwave Founder and CEO, Olugbenga ‘GB’ Agboola, has said that stablecoins represent a fundamental upgrade to Africa’s cross-border payment infrastructure. He noted that the companies best placed to capture that shift are the ones that already have the local distribution and compliance depth to turn digital assets into usable, real-world value.

The Flutterwave CEO made these remarks across two high-profile engagements at Money 20/20 Europe in Amsterdam. During the event, he joined Dima Kats, Founder and Group Executive Chair of Clear Junction, for a fireside chat titled “Building the Rails: Stablecoin Architecture from Lagos to London,” under the Money Stack Rewired: Stablecoins and Beyond content pillar.

Agboola, direct about Flutterwave’s positioning, noted that stablecoins are not a standalone product category but a faster settlement layer sitting directly on top of the company’s comprehensive, existing local and global payout infrastructure.

For enterprises managing treasury across multiple African markets, he framed stablecoins as a liquidity and FX management tool that keeps working when traditional banking rails are closed. “Stablecoin is completely different because money moves at the speed of the internet, not at the speed of banks closing up their house. If you pay with stablecoin, you get that money instantly,” he added.

Addressing whether stablecoins make infrastructure intermediaries obsolete, Agboola asserted that wallet-to-wallet token transfers are straightforward. However, handling the legal compliance, navigating anti-money laundering (AML) laws, and clearing the last-mile payout into actual local bank accounts across multiple jurisdictions are the complex problems that keep Flutterwave’s infrastructure indispensable.

“I’ve been in payments for about 20 years now, and the infrastructure that manages customer funds must be designed for shocks from day one; it doesn’t matter if the value comes from stablecoin or fiat. This is what we’ve prioritised, giving customers one wallet address that is chain-agnostic, supported by all the biggest blockchains, ensuring customer funds are not at risk,” Agboola said.

Speaking live on Fintech.TV’s Market Movers from the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) broadcast center at the event, Agboola used Flutterwave’s 10th anniversary to anchor a wider conversation about the company’s trajectory for the next decade.

He outlined the company’s evolution, noting that while the last decade was spent connecting Africa’s fragmented payment infrastructure through a single API, the next will focus on Flutterwave becoming the financial operating system for the continent.

The company’s recent secured microfinance banking license in Nigeria, Agboola noted, is a structural evolution from a “money in transit” provider to a foundational infrastructure player. This deeper integration systematically reduces friction across the value chain, increases network reliability, and opens up entirely new verticals across the ecosystem.

This evolution aligns directly with the company’s goal of building a multi-rail infrastructure where stablecoins and fiat rails work seamlessly side by side to power Africa’s growth.

To anchor the cross-border capabilities of this financial operating system, Flutterwave continues to scale its robust network of global digital asset partnerships, including Circle, Polygon, Fireblocks Flow, Nuvion, and Tempo. This collaborative ecosystem serves as the backbone of what the company is rapidly positioning as Africa’s largest regulated stablecoin infrastructure.

Flutterwave founder unveils vision for Africa’s financial operating system

Founder and General oversea of Deeper Christian Life Ministry, Pastor William Kumuyi, has dismissed speculations that he may likely hand over the leadership of the church to any of his biological sons.

Kumuyi said the ministry belongs to Jesus Christ and not to him.

His remarks follows recurring discussions in some Christian circles about succession planning and the transfer of leadership in large religious organisations.

Adressing the issue during a recent church programme, the cleric said some people had been searching for information about his children in anticipation of a possible family transfer of leadership.

“Many people were speculating, is he going to hand over the church unto his son? Some were searching for his first son and searching for his second son, asking where they are and where they live,” he said.

He, however, stressed that the church is not a personal possession that can be inherited by family members, declaring that he is not handing it over to his sons.

“You see, Jesus said, ‘Upon this rock, I will build my church.’ Jesus said it is His church. It’s not Peter’s church. It’s nobody’s church,” Kumuyi stated.

He added that no church leader has the right to transfer ownership or leadership of Christ’s church to a biological child simply because of family ties.

“It’s the church of the Lord Jesus Christ, and nobody has the right to hand it over to his son,” he said.

Kumuyi further referenced biblical figures, highlighting that key leaders of the early Christian church did not pass on spiritual leadership to their descendants.

“Peter did not hand over the church to his son. Paul did not hand over the church to his son. John did not hand over the church to his son,” he said.

Kumuyi further reiterated that the focus of believers should remain on advancing God’s kingdom rather than on personalities or family succession.

He stressed that those who stood firm in the Christian faith were committed to the kingdom of God, which, according to scripture, “is not meat and drink, but righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Ghost.”

Reiterating his commitment to God’s will regarding the future leadership of the church he said, “I was not about to hand that over to any son. The will of the Lord be done in Jesus’ name.”

Deeper Life Not For My Sons To Inherit — Kumuyi is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday urged residents and business owners in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to pay their taxes, ground rents and other statutory charges to enable the government sustain infrastructure development across Abuja.

Tinubu made the call during the commissioning of the completed Arterial Road N5, also known as Obafemi Awolowo Way, stretching from Life Camp Junction to Ring Road III in Dape District.

Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, the President said the provision of critical infrastructure could only be sustained through cooperation between government and citizens.

He said residents benefiting from ongoing transformation in the FCT must also fulfil their civic responsibilities by paying taxes and other statutory fees.

“To the residents and business owners enjoying this transformation, I urge you to meet your obligations. Pay your taxes. Clear your land fees and ground rents. Your compliance gives the FCT Administration the strength to build more roads like this one,” Tinubu said.

The President described the newly completed road as a major economic corridor that would ease traffic congestion, improve connectivity and stimulate investment opportunities within the nation’s capital.

He recalled that the Gwarinpa I District section of the road was commissioned in June 2025, noting that his administration had fulfilled its promise to complete the remaining portion of the project.

“On that day, we made a pledge to you. We promised not to leave this vital artery half-done. Because the Renewed Hope Agenda is not about abandoned projects; it is about delivery from start to finish.

“And so today, we are back. We are back to close the circle. We are back to commission the Dape District Section of Arterial Road N5, from Life Camp Junction to Ring Road III,” he stated.

Tinubu said the road project was conceived, funded and completed under his administration after it was awarded to Julius Berger Plc with a strict 15-month timeline following its flag-off in October 2024.

According to him, the era of abandoned and endlessly delayed public infrastructure projects had ended.

“We conceived it, we funded it, and we delivered it. In the past, projects like this became permanent budget lines, ten to fifteen years of excuses. Not under this administration,” he declared.

The President commended the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, describing him as the administration’s “Engine of Execution” for driving infrastructure delivery in Abuja.

He also praised construction giant Julius Berger for delivering quality work within schedule.

“Minister Wike, you and your team have shown what happens when political will meets accountability. We fund projects to see results, not to listen to grammar,” Tinubu added.

He noted that the completion of the N5 corridor would significantly reduce travel time and improve connectivity among Dape, Karmo, Gwarinpa I, Kado, Idu and Mbora districts.

Tinubu further stated that the road would provide direct access to the Idu Industrial District, lower logistics costs for businesses, attract investments and create jobs.

“Beyond that, this road opens a direct gateway to the Idu Industrial District. That means lower logistics costs for businesses, new investment, and more jobs for our people,” he said.

The President also appealed to traditional rulers, community leaders and residents to protect public infrastructure from vandalism and ensure proper maintenance of drainage systems and streetlights.

Earlier, the FCT Minister, Wike, said the event marked the second day of a 31-day project inauguration programme organised to commemorate the third anniversary of the Tinubu administration.

Wike said infrastructure delivery in the FCT had expanded significantly under the current administration.

“On June 24, 2024, when we had the first-year anniversary of Mr. President, we took nine days of commissioning of projects. In the second year anniversary, we took 19 days. To the glory of God, in this third year, we are touching 31 days of commissioning of projects,” he said.

The minister credited Tinubu for providing the political backing needed to transform Abuja and its satellite towns through visible infrastructure projects.

“For the first time, development has been taken to the satellite towns in the Federal Capital Territory. This is unprecedented. Before this period, satellite towns did not know what they call government. Today, they can feel the impact and presence of government,” Wike stated.

He commended Julius Berger for completing both sections of the road project within record time, disclosing that the Gwarinpa section was delivered within seven months.

Wike also defended the FCT Administration’s handling of compensation issues arising from the road construction, insisting that all affected property owners were adequately compensated.

“We paid. If you are saying that because you are from that place and development has passed and government did not dash you money, we don’t dash money when we are carrying out development,” he said.

The minister dismissed protests by some individuals during the event, insisting that the administration’s numerous infrastructure projects across the territory reflected its commitment to governance and development.

In her remarks, Minister of State for the FCT, Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, described the road project as another milestone under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

She said the project reflected Tinubu’s commitment to improving connectivity, stimulating economic growth and enhancing the quality of life of residents.

Mahmoud also praised Wike for what she described as purposeful leadership and unwavering commitment to the transformation of Abuja through critical infrastructure delivery.

She expressed confidence that the newly commissioned road would improve transportation, boost commercial activities and support sustainable urban development across the Federal Capital Territory.

Pay Taxes To Get More Projects, Tinubu Tells Abuja Residents is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

Kieran McKenna has made the stunning decision to leave his role as manager of Ipswich Town and step away from football altogether just a month after leading the club back into the Premier League.

The 40-year-old Northen Irishman, says he wants to take a break from management to spend time with his family, according to a statement released by the club.

McKenna will go down as one of the club’s greatest ever managers after leading the Tractor Boys to the Premier League twice, ending their 22-year wait to return to the top flight in 2024 and then taking them straight back up this season after their relegation a year ago.

Those exploits had him atop Fulham’s wishlist to replace Marco Silva at Craven Cottage, however McKenna’s unexpected U-turn will take him out of the game altogether.

“It is with a mixture of gratitude, pride, sadness and contentment that I have decided to step down from the honour of managing this historic football club,” wrote McKenna on Ipswich’s website.

“When you have the connection that we have built at this club there is never a good time to say goodbye. However, having achieved a second promotion to the Premier League last season, with another memorable final day in our stadium, and after reflection over the last couple of weeks, I feel this is the right time for me to step aside. I do so with great pride at the incredible progress we have made and with huge hope and optimism for the future of the club.

“Ipswich Town will always have a special place in our hearts.”, he said.

McKenna took over at Ipswich when the club were in League One after an humiliating FA Cup loss to Barrow, and ended a 22-year wait for the side to return to the Premier League with their promotion in 2024.

Kieran McKenna Resigns As Ipswich Town Manager is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

Abia State is set to host transport experts, policymakers, investors, researchers, regulators and industry stakeholders from across Nigeria for the South-East Zonal Transport Conference 2026, a gathering aimed at promoting sustainable urban mobility and green energy solutions in the transportation sector.

The conference is being organized by the Chartered Institute of Transport Administration of Nigeria (CIOTA) in partnership with the Abia State Government, to be held from June 17 to 19, with the official opening ceremony scheduled for June 18 at the International Conference Centre (ICC), Umuahia.

Addressing journalists during a media briefing on Wednesday, the South-East Zonal Coordinator of CIOTA and Chairman of the Planning Committee, Mrs Ijeoma Okere, described the conference as a strategic platform designed to tackle emerging transportation challenges and explore innovative solutions capable of driving economic growth while addressing environmental concerns.

The conference is themed: “Advancing Urban Transport Through Sustainable Urban Mobility and Green Energy Solution.”

According to Okere, the theme reflects the urgent need for Nigerian cities and urban centres to embrace transportation systems that are innovative, environmentally responsible and economically sustainable.

“The theme reflects the urgent need for Nigerian cities and urban centres to embrace innovative, environmentally sustainable and economically viable transportation systems capable of meeting the mobility needs of our growing population while contributing to national development and environmental sustainability,” she said.

She noted that despite the South-East’s position as one of Nigeria’s most vibrant economic regions, it continues to face major transportation challenges, including traffic congestion, inadequate public transport infrastructure, environmental degradation, road safety concerns and the increasing demand for efficient mobility solutions.

“These realities demand coordinated action, strategic planning and stakeholder collaboration,” Okere stated.

She explained that the conference has been carefully structured to facilitate discussions on sustainable urban mobility, transport infrastructure development, clean energy transportation technologies, smart mobility systems, logistics efficiency, transport policy reforms, investment opportunities and public-private sector partnerships.

The CIOTA coordinator said the event would bring together transport professionals, government officials, development agencies, academics, captains of industry and transport operators to exchange ideas and develop practical solutions for the future of transportation in the region and across the country.

Okere disclosed that Governor Alex Otti will serve as the Chief Host of the conference, citing his administration’s commitment to infrastructure renewal and economic transformation as one of the reasons Abia was selected to host the event.

She also announced that the conference will feature a keynote presentation by Prof. Innocent Ogwude, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration) of the Nigeria Maritime University, Okerenkoko, whom she described as one of Nigeria’s foremost scholars in transport technology.

Other notable speakers expected at the conference include the Abia State Commissioner for Transport, Dr Chimezie Ukaegbu, and the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Transportation, Dr Obioma Nwaogbe, among other transportation experts and policymakers.

Okere expressed optimism that the conference would produce recommendations capable of influencing transportation policies, investment decisions, institutional reforms and sustainable mobility initiatives across the South-East and Nigeria as a whole.

“Together, we can build a transport system that not only supports economic growth but also enhances quality of life, promotes environmental sustainability and strengthens regional integration and national prosperity,” she added.

Speaking further, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Transportation, Dr Obioma Nwaogbe, said Abia earned the hosting rights due to the ongoing transport reforms being implemented by the administration of Governor Otti.

According to him, initiatives such as the deployment of electric vehicles, the introduction of the Tap-and-Pay transport system and the establishment of the Nnenna Otti Transport Terminal have positioned Abia as a leading example of smart and sustainable urban mobility in Nigeria.

He noted that the conference would provide participants with the opportunity to witness firsthand the state’s progress in green transportation while contributing to discussions that will shape future transport policies and master plans for the South-East region and the nation at large.

Abia Hosts South-East Transport Conference On Green Mobility Solutions is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

Tottenham Hotspur have completed the signing of defender Marcos Senesi on a free transfer.

The experienced Argentina international defender will join Spurs on 1 July, subject to international clearance, following the expiration of his contract with AFC Bournemouth.

Sporting Director Johan Lange said: “Marcos is a defender who brings a combination of quality, intelligence and leadership to our squad.

“His experience at the highest level, his composure in possession and his desire to compete for every ball make him an excellent fit for the way we want to play.

“We are delighted to welcome him to the Club and believe this is the perfect place for him as he enters a great stage in his career.”

Also, head Coach Roberto De Zerbi said: “Marcos’ experience, quality on the ball, and competitive edge will strengthen us defensively, as well as giving us flexibility in formation.

“I also love his mentality and desire to keep improving and I’m looking forward to working with him and seeing the big contribution he can make to the team.”

The 29-year-old left-footed centre-back played 128 times for Bournemouth in all competitions, scoring six goals and providing 10 assists over four seasons.

LaLiga and Serie A sides tabled offers for Senesi but he wanted to stay in the Premier League and was keen on a move to London

Spurs are looking to bolster their team after finishing 17th last season, only assuring survival on the last day.

Marcos Senesi Joins Tottenham On Free Transfer is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

The Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Mr Ola Olukoyede, has expressed concern over the rising cost of elections in Nigeria, disclosing that some governorship aspirants spend between N20bn and N30bn to secure electoral victory

Olukoyede disclosed in Ilorin on Wednesday while speaking at the inaugural High-Level Guest Speakers’ Series organised by the Centre for Peace and Strategic Studies (CPSS), University of Ilorin, themed “De-risking and Mobilising Critical Stakeholders for Peaceful and Credible 2027 Elections in Nigeria.”

He warned that the huge financial outlay involved in elections often pressures elected officials to divert public funds after assuming office in an attempt to recover campaign expenses, describing the trend as a major threat to democratic governance.

“The commercialisation of votes weakens the foundation of good governance because it compromises the political recruitment process. Leaders who buy their way into office are more likely to focus on recovering their investments rather than serving the public interest,” he said.

The EFCC boss reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to tackling vote-buying and other electoral offences, noting that several arrests and convictions had already been made across the country involving politicians, electoral officials, and citizens.

He also warned that impunity in the electoral process could undermine democracy and national stability, stressing that there must be no sacred cows in enforcing electoral laws. According to him, the commission plans to deploy drones and other technological tools to enhance election monitoring ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Olukoyede further called on political parties and their supporters to embrace issue-based campaigns and avoid inflammatory rhetoric capable of inciting violence.

He urged collaboration among stakeholders, including the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, civil society organisations, the media, and political actors, to ensure peaceful and credible elections.

In his remarks, the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Professor Wahab Egbewole (SAN), described electoral corruption as a major threat to national security and democratic development, stressing the need for credible elections to strengthen public confidence in governance.

Also speaking, the Director of the Centre for Peace and Strategic Studies, Professor G.A. Animasawun, said the lecture series was designed to foster proactive engagement on threats to Nigeria’s electoral process ahead of the 2027 elections.

The event had in attendance representatives of security agencies, electoral bodies, civil society organisations, members of the academic community, and students.

Some Governorship Aspirants Spend N30bn To Win Elections—EFCC Boss is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

Chelsea have announced the departure of Richard Olise from the club after a decade.

He is included in the list of players released following the conclusion of the 2025-2026 season.

The Blues have confirmed that Olise will leave Stamford Bridge when his contract concludes on June 30, 2026.

Richard is the younger sibling of Michael Olise, who received an invitation to join the Super Eagles in 2021 but ultimately chose to represent France internationally.

The Bayern Munich player is anticipated to play a significant role for Les Bleus in the forthcoming World Cup.

The younger Olise concludes a ten-year relationship with Chelsea, having entered the club’s academy at the U9 level.

He advanced through every age category within the Blues’ youth system and gained recognition during the 2024-25 season when he was named in the first team squad for a UEFA Conference League match against Astana.

However, his final season at the club saw limited opportunities, with the right-back making only four starts across all competitions for Chelsea’s development squad.

Olise is viewed as a composed and steady defender, capable of making significant contributions at both ends of the field.

He is comfortable in possession and tactically astute, embodying many qualities typical of the modern fullback.

Born in London 21 years ago, Olise has represented England at the U18 level and is now poised to advance his career following his exit from Chelsea.

Transfer: Chelsea confirm decision on Olise