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Former Governor of Kano State, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has said only the Supreme Court of Nigeria can determine the fate of Muhammadu Sanusi II in the ongoing emirship dispute, a position he said will ultimately be upheld and given effect by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf in line with the rule of law.

Ganduje made the clarification while reacting to reports alleging that he had endorsed Sanusi as Emir of Kano and Chairman of the Kano State Council of Chiefs.

In a statement on Wednesday by the former commissioner of information and his chief of staff, Muhammad Garba, Ganduje described the reports as a misinterpretation and said that his reference to Sanusi by his traditional title during the swearing-in ceremony of the deputy governor was merely a matter of courtesy and protocol.

“It is important to clarify that what happened was simply an expression of respect in a public gathering. It should not be misconstrued as an endorsement,” he said.

He stressed that the emirship tussle remains sub judice, cautioning that public commentary must be handled carefully to avoid actions that could amount to contempt of court.

The former governor recalled that the Court of Appeal had earlier directed all parties to maintain the status quo pending the final determination of the case.

“The subsisting legal position recognizes Aminu Ado Bayero as the 15th Emir of Kano and Muhammadu Sanusi II as the 14th Emir, pending the final judgment of the Supreme Court,” he explained.

He further emphasized that as a former governor, he has no constitutional authority to endorse or reject any claimant to the emirship, noting that the matter rests entirely with the judiciary and subsequently with the state government.

Ganduje regretted that the issue had been unnecessarily amplified by sections of the media, adding that what may have been a routine acknowledgment of already established protocol was blown out of proportion.

“The interpretation being given to the remark is clearly exaggerated, and he urged all parties to exercise restraint and await the Supreme Court judgment, which is expected to be delivered in April next year,” he stated.

Kano Emirship: Supreme Court, Gov Yusuf have final say, not me – Ganduje

Enugu State Government has unveiled plans to build a 660MW coal-fired power plant in the state, starting from July this year, as part of Governor Peter Mbah’s administration’s strategy to actualise its vision to grow the state’s economy from $4.4bn to $30bn.

This was even as the Organised Private Sector Nigeria (OPSN), an umbrella body for Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA); Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN); Nigerian Association of Small-Scale Industrialists (NASSI); Nigerian Association of Small and Medium Enterprises (NASME), and the Enugu Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (ECCIMA) endorsed the governor for a second term in office.

They said he had made them proud as a private sector player himself by his outstanding leadership that had “strengthened confidence in Enugu as an emerging destination for investment, commerce, enterprise development, and living.”

Governor Mbah spoke during a solidarity visit by OPSN, Enugu State, to him at Government House, Enugu, on Wednesday.

Mbah recalled that Enugu State, under his leadership, was the first subnational to set up an electricity market following the Constitution and Electricity Act amendments that effectively transferred power from the Exclusive List to the Concurrent List, thus paving the way for states to participate in all the power value chain, namely generation, transmission, and distribution.

“But we have gone beyond just setting up the electricity market to now being interested in producing the electricity here. I am pleased to inform you that in July we are going to be breaking ground for a 660MW coal-fired power plant.

“The outlay in terms of time for building the plant is 24 months. So, our target is to commission that power plant 24 months after the groundbreaking in July.

“What that simply means is that post-2027, you will not have your power go off in Enugu, whether for businesses or for residential. You are also going to have affordable electricity because it is going to be by far the cheapest in the country.”

The governor allayed concerns normally associated with coal, citing the low sulfur content and high calorific value of Enugu coal, standing at about 7,000 kilocalories per kilogramme.

“The interesting thing about our coal is that we have the best quality of coal in the world. Our sulfur content is less than 0.5 per cent. With 1 per cent you are happy, but this one is 0.5 per cent. The only country that comes close is Japan.

“So, instead of just exporting our coal, we are going to be benefiting from it by adding value, generating electricity with it,” he said.

He said the project was not a knee-jerk decision, as his administration had taken about two years to undertake the necessary studies and also secure coal assets to guarantee unhindered supplies to the plant.

Mbah equally listed investment in security, establishment of a one-stop shop for prospective investors, the ongoing construction of a technology incubation centre, and partnership with the Nigerian Communications Commission to build an Artificial Intelligence Institute as part of his administration’s strategy to further improve the Enugu business environment and prepare for the future.

“In four years from now, AI will contribute $20trn to the global economy. We just do not want Enugu State to miss out on such huge funds. We want to be at the epicentre, not just as consumers, but as producers,” he stated.

OPSN had earlier endorsed Mbah and called for improved power supply, expressing the need for the sustained implementation of harmonised taxes and levies, continuous improvement in access to land, affordable financing, and technical support for SMEs, among others.

Speaking, the Convener, OPSN, Enugu, and Chairman, NECA South East Zone, Dr. Ugochukwu Chime, expressed the group’s satisfaction with the Mbah administration, citing security, improved infrastructure, transportation, hospitality, social services, and other enablers of business and investment.

“We particularly commend your administration’s significant investments in security, because we all know that business only goes to secure and peaceful destinations, urban renewal, and city expansion developments.

“The construction and rehabilitation of strategic road networks have improved mobility, enhanced access to commercial centres, and stimulated economic activities across the state,” Chime stated.

Chime said Mbah, by his exploits, had made it imperative for more private sector players to join politics.

“Organised Private Sector is particularly proud that you are one of its distinguished products. Your private sector background, where practical and common-sense decisions prevail, has enabled you to appreciate the critical role of businesses in economic growth, job creation, and improved welfare of the people,” he said.

Other speakers, including Dr. Ifeanyi Okoye of NECA; founder of Peace Group of Companies, Dr. Maduka Onyishi; ECCIMA President, Engr. Nnanyelugo Onyemelukwe; ECCIMA Vice President, Princess Egbo; and Chairman of Wilson Group, Chief William Agbo, lauded Mbah for turning the state’s fortunes around as a centre for business and investment.

Some of the members used the opportunity to present several made in Enugu products to the governor.

Enugu targets 660MW coal-fired power plant, sets July groundbreaking date

Azzam al-Hayya, son of senior Hamas leader Khalil al-Hayya, has been killed in an Israeli strike in the Daraj neighbourhood of Gaza City, according to Hamas-affiliated media.

The strike in eastern Gaza City is the latest in Israel’s ongoing campaign to dismantle the leadership and infrastructure of Hamas.

Khalil al-Hayya is a prominent figure within the Hamas political bureau, having served as a key deputy and major negotiator for the group, frequently representing Hamas in international ceasefire and hostage negotiations in Cairo and Doha.

The IDF has not yet released a formal statement confirming the specific operational details of the strike.

This is not the first time the al-Hayya family has been struck. Another son, Imam al-Hayya, was killed in September 2025 during an Israeli strike targeting Hamas leaders in Qatar. In 2014, another bombardment killed his eldest son Osama, Osama’s wife, and three of their children.

Khalil al-Hayya currently serves as part of Hamas’s acting five-man leadership council following the killing of Yahya Sinwar by the IDF in October 2024. He has been the group’s chief negotiator in ceasefire talks with Israel.

Son Of Hamas Leader Killed In Israeli Strike On Gaza is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

The Ijesa Community Development Assembly, ICDA, has announced the death of the Owamiran of Esa-Oke, Oba Adeyemi Akanbi Adediran.

In a statement issued by Asiwaju of Ijesaland, Olayinka Fasuyi on Wednesday and obtained dby DAILY POST, the assembly, while describing the development as a moment of deep sorrow, added that the monarch “took his final bow and joined his ancestors” earlier on May 6, 2026.

The ICDA noted that the late traditional ruler served as a custodian of culture and a unifying figure within Esa-Oke and the wider Ijesaland.

It stated that his reign was characterised by dignity, wisdom, and commitment to peace, unity and development across his domain.

According to the statement, Oba Adediran was “a monarch of quiet strength and thoughtful leadership who upheld the responsibilities of his office with honour.”

The assembly added that he ensured the preservation and promotion of the cultural heritage of Esa-Oke throughout his time on the throne.

It stated that “the monarch provided stability during periods of uncertainty and played a reassuring role in times of communal challenges.”

The ICDA said beyond traditional leadership, “the late king supported initiatives aimed at advancing education, social harmony and community development.”

Describing him as a father figure, the statement said “his leadership fostered unity and strengthened communal ties among the people of Esa-Oke.”

The assembly added that his contributions extended beyond his immediate domain to the broader development of Ijesaland.

It also extended condolences to the royal family, the people of Esa-Oke, the Obokun Local Government Traditional Rulers Council, and the Owa Obokun of Ijesaland, Oba Clement Adesuyi Haastrup.

Owamiran of Esa-Oke, Oba Adediran is dead

The Social Democratic Party, SDP, has screened Prince Adewole Adebayo and other presidential aspirants ahead of its national convention in preparation for the 2027 general election.

Speaking during the event on Wednesday in Abuja, National Chairman Professor Sadiq Gombe, disclosed that the party has made “extensive preparations” to conduct its convention aimed at fielding a candidate capable of unseating President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who is seeking re-election under the All Progressives Congress.

Gombe revealed that more than four committees have been constituted to drive the process.

“We have set up over four committees, including the Screening Committee, Electoral Committee, Convention Committee, and several sub-committees, each with clearly defined responsibilities to ensure a credible exercise,” he said.

He explained that the screening of aspirants would take place at the party’s conference hall at the National Secretariat, its registered office with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

According to him, “The screening exercise will cover all aspirants contesting for elective positions, including the office of the president, governorship seats across the 36 states, National Assembly, and State Houses of Assembly.”

“We have confidence in the competence and integrity of the committee members. They must carry out their responsibilities with diligence, fairness, and transparency.”

On his part, Chairman of the Screening Committee, Air Vice Marshal Sadiq Abubakar Lima, emphasized strict compliance with the party’s rules.

“Despite our different levels of familiarity, we must approach this assignment with diligence and integrity,” Lima said.

2027: SDP screens Adebayo, other presidential aspirants

… Inaugurates Boards For Education Agencies, University Principal Officers

The Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, on Wednesday flagged four key threats undermining Nigeria’s education system, citing learning poverty, teacher quality gaps, infrastructure deficits, and the urgent need to strengthen research and innovation ecosystems.

Alausa said the sector must confront these challenges head-on as the government drives comprehensive, data-driven reforms under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda to improve access, quality, equity, and relevance in education.

Alausa who was speaking during the inauguration of Governing Boards and Principal Officers of a university, including the appointment of a polytechnic rector in Abuja, described the inauguration as symbolic of the government’s commitment to repositioning education as the bedrock of national development and strengthening governance across all levels of the system.

He expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for his visionary leadership and unprecedented support, noting that the President’s bold investments and policy direction had created the enabling environment for the far-reaching reforms currently being implemented by the ministry.

Congratulating the newly appointed Chairmen and members of the Governing Boards, the Minister said their selection reflected proven competence, integrity, and commitment to national service.

He stressed that the governance of education agencies required clarity of vision, strong ethical standards, and alignment with national policy direction, and urged the appointees to provide strategic oversight, ensure accountability, and support management to deliver measurable outcomes.

He added that they must serve as a bridge between policy and implementation by inspiring confidence through transparency, discipline, and results.

Alausa also addressed the Principal Officers of the newly established Federal University of Agriculture and Entrepreneurship, Bama, describing the Vice-Chancellor, Registrar, Bursar, and Librarian as pioneer leaders with the historic responsibility of laying a solid institutional foundation that would define the university’s vision, culture, and long-term trajectory.

He charged them to lead with vision and integrity by building strong academic programmes, investing in faculty development, promoting solution-oriented research, ensuring student welfare, and fostering strategic partnerships.

To the reappointed Chief Executive Officers of the ministry’s parastatals, Alausa commended their continued service and institutional knowledge, saying their reappointment was a recognition of performance and stability.

He however cautioned that continuity must not breed complacency but should serve as a platform to consolidate gains, deepen ongoing reforms, and accelerate progress.

The task ahead, he said, demands innovation, responsiveness, and a relentless focus on improving outcomes across the education value chain.

The Minister told the newly appointed Rector of the Federal Polytechnic, N’Yak-Shendam, that the appointment came at a pivotal moment as polytechnics remain central to the drive for Technical and Vocational Education and Training, skills acquisition, and industrialization.

He urged the Rector to build an institution that produces graduates equipped with practical competencies, entrepreneurial capacity, and industry-relevant skills rather than certificates alone.

Alausa reaffirmed that the reforms underway are not optional but imperative for national competitiveness and sustainable development.

He called for prudent management of resources, strict adherence to due process, and unwavering compliance with all applicable laws and regulations, stating that public trust is earned through integrity, accountability, and service.

He further pledged the ministry’s commitment to strengthening policy coherence, enhancing monitoring and evaluation frameworks, and fostering collaboration across agencies and stakeholders in line with the One Government Approach doctrine to ensure that no Nigerian learner is left behind.

“Ultimately, the success of our education system will depend not only on policies and funding but on the quality of leadership that drives implementation. I therefore urge you to work collaboratively, lead with integrity, and remain steadfast in your commitment to excellence,” he urged them.

Learning Poverty, Infrastructure Top Education Crisis List – Alausa is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

…Says Saving Lives Beyond Religious Affiliation

The Nigerian Red Cross Society (NRCS) has emphasised that blood donation is a humanitarian duty that rises above religious and ethnic boundaries, as it intensifies efforts to save lives across the country.

Speaking with THE WHISTLER on Wednesday during activities marking World Red Cross Day at the society’s new headquarters in Gwarimpa, the National President, Oluyemisi Adeaga, said Nigerians are gradually embracing voluntary blood donation as awareness grows.

He stressed that the act of giving blood should not be influenced by personal beliefs or identity, noting that the urgency of saving lives outweighs such considerations.

“People are becoming more conscious because the need is spreading. This goes beyond religious or ethnic considerations. Whoever needs blood needs life, and whoever needs life has to be given the opportunity to live again, no matter the perception,” he said.

Drawing from everyday scenarios, he noted that in emergencies such as road accidents, responders do not consider the religion or ethnicity of victims before offering help, stressing that such should be the standard approach to saving lives.

“It may be your relative tomorrow or someone you don’t know. The most important thing is that we are able to save lives,” he added.

Adeaga, however, explained that humanitarian response is becoming increasingly challenging amid a rise in disasters and insecurity, both globally and within Nigeria, placing greater pressure on the society’s resources.

According to him, the organisation is grappling with a widening gap between the growing number of vulnerable persons and the limited number of volunteers and funding required to meet those needs.

He noted that despite Nigeria recording millions of internally displaced persons due to insecurity, the Red Cross volunteer base has not expanded at a commensurate rate.

“We have both internal and external factors influencing our operations. Globally, there is an increase in conflict and multiple crises, and locally, insecurity such as banditry is rising. But our volunteer base is not growing in proportion, and funding is very low,” he said.

Adeaga appealed to the government to strengthen support for the society, recalling that the organisation was established by an Act of Parliament in 1960, which places a responsibility on authorities to assist its operations.

He also called for stronger collaboration between the media and the Red Cross to deepen public awareness on the importance of humanitarian service and voluntary donations.

Earlier, while addressing volunteers, he stressed that the strength of the Red Cross lies in its grassroots network, spanning Nigeria’s 36 states, the Federal Capital Territory and all local government areas.

“There is no Red Cross anywhere without its divisions and branches. They are the pillars on which the national society rests,” he said, urging members to continue reaching vulnerable communities.

He praised volunteers for carrying “hope to those that really need it,” adding that their work has had a significant impact.

The event featured symbolic engagement with young members, whom he described as future leaders capable of shaping not only the Red Cross but the nation and the world.

Also speaking with THE WHISTLER, a volunteer, Justice Patience, reinforced the life-saving impact of blood donation, citing recent experiences.

“A lot. About two weeks ago, blood saved lives,” she said, recalling how access to donated blood has been critical in emergency situations.

She explained that during a recent visit to a medical blood service facility, she observed how stored blood is distributed to hospitals in need, commending the efforts of those managing such systems.

“They have a bank where they give blood to different hospitals that are in need. They are doing a good job by storing blood for people who need it,” she said.

Justice, who works with a non-governmental organisation supporting the Red Cross and other international humanitarian bodies, noted that such interventions underscore the importance of sustained public participation in blood donation drives.

THE WHISTLER reports that the event featured voluntary blood donation and HIV testing. Organisations present included Mozuk Future Solutions, Cece Yara Child Advocacy Center, and a team from the National Blood Transfusion Service, among others.

Red Cross Intensifies Push For Voluntary Blood Donation is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

The Adamawa State Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has arrested nine suspects following a targeted raid on hideouts in Mubi and its surrounding areas.

The operation specifically focused on identified black spots within the Mubi metropolitan area known for illicit activities.

This was contained in a statement issued by the Command on Wednesday, indicating that the operation was carried out earlier on Monday, May 4.

“At the conclusion of the raid, a total of nine suspects were apprehended. Items recovered from the suspects include dangerous weapons—such as a firearm and knives—as well as illicit drugs and other controlled substances,” the statement explained.

Signed by the NSCDC State Command Public Relations Officer, DSC Nyako Amidu Baba, the statement said all arrested suspects have been transferred to the Command Headquarters in Yola, where they are undergoing profiling and investigation.

“This operation was conducted in direct and prompt fulfillment of the Executive Security Directive of His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Adamawa State, Rt. Hon. Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, who mandated an immediate and comprehensive raid on all identified black spots within Mubi metropolis and its surrounding environs,” Baba stated.

He added that the state commandant of the NSCDC, Idris Dahiru Bande, acted on the governor’s directive by mobilising and deploying a team of specially trained operatives who executed the operation.

NSCDC arrests nine suspects in Adamawa raid

The Nigerian Navy has handed over 125 bags of seized foreign parboiled rice to the Nigeria Customs Service, NCS.

This was following a successful anti-smuggling operation conducted by personnel of Naval Base EPE in Lagos State.

Officials of the Nigeria Customs Service, Federal Operations Unit, FOU, Zone ‘A’ Ikeja, led by Superintendent of Customs Chinedu Eboh, arrived at Naval Base EPE on 5 May 2026 for the formal handover of the seized items.

A statement signed by Captain AA Folorunsho, Director Naval Informat said that acting on credible human intelligence on 29 April 2026 at 0300hours, personnel of Naval Base EPE intercepted a Peugeot J5 van with registration number EKY-168YC laden with 125 bags of 50kg foreign parboiled rice suspected to have been smuggled into Lagos State through illegal border routes.

It said in line with extant regulations and established inter-agency collaboration procedures, the seized items were formally handed over to the Nigeria Customs Service for further investigation and necessary action.

It said the handover was conducted on behalf of the Commander, Naval Base Epe, Captain Levi Deyin, represented by the Acting Executive Officer, Lieutenant Commander Elvis Egbe.

The successful interception and subsequent handover, according to the navy, underscore the Nigerian Navy’s continued commitment to supporting national efforts aimed at combating smuggling, protecting the nation’s economy, and strengthening internal security through effective inter-agency cooperation.

It said the Nigerian Navy remains resolute in sustaining operations against all forms of illegal activities within Nigeria’s maritime and littoral environment.

Nigerian Navy hands over 125 bags of seized foreign parboiled rice to NCS

China has urged Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and bring an end to its conflict with the United States and Israel, following a request from the Trump administration for Beijing’s assistance.

At a meeting in Beijing, China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi held talks with Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on the need to halt the fighting, according to Chinese state media.

Wang stressed that peace talks should not be delayed.

He said, “China believes that a comprehensive cessation of hostilities should not be delayed, any reigniting of hostilities is even less desirable, and sticking to negotiations is particularly important.”

He also said efforts should focus on restoring safe and normal movement through the Strait of Hormuz, a key global shipping route.

During the height of the conflict in March, Iranian and China-linked ships were still moving through the strait.

However, the situation changed after the United States imposed a full blockade on Iran’s ports, which effectively halted most traffic in the area.

China urges Iran to reopen Strait of Hormuz