Blog

The National Orientation Agency, NOA, has called on Nigerians to take active responsibility in addressing insecurity and promoting unity across the country.

The Director General of the Agency, Lanre Issa-Onilu, speaking on the renewed national security concerns, said citizens must stop being passive observers and instead support government efforts through vigilance, timely information sharing, and community cooperation.

He said: “Government cannot do it alone. Every Nigerian has a role to play in ensuring peace and security in their communities. We must act together to protect our nation and strengthen unity.”

The Agency also warned against divisive rhetoric and indifference, noting that such attitudes continue to worsen tensions in several parts of the country.

NOA further urged traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth groups, and civil society organisations to intensify sensitization efforts aimed at promoting peace, tolerance, and national cohesion.

It maintained that national unity remains a shared responsibility, stressing that collective action is key to building a safer and more stable Nigeria.

NOA calls for citizen action to tackle insecurity, strengthen national unity

The Kaduna State Government has asked contractors alleging they are owed about N30 billion to seek redress in court, insisting that due process must be followed in resolving the dispute.

The state Commissioner for Works and Infrastructure, Mr Ibrahim Hamza, made the position known on Saturday, May 2, 2026, in Kaduna while reacting to claims of unpaid project funds by some contractors.

Hamza said the government would not be pressured by public outcry, maintaining that all genuine claims would be addressed through legal and administrative channels.

He said “If any contractor believes they are owed, the appropriate place to prove such claims is the court. The government will not be blackmailed into making payments without proper verification”.

According to him, the state remains committed to transparency and accountability, adding that only duly certified and verified contracts would be honoured.

He also explained that some of the claims being circulated were either exaggerated or not backed by complete documentation.

The commissioner urged affected contractors to present their cases before competent courts, assuring that the government would respect judicial outcomes.

Go to Court- Kaduna govt fires back at contractors over alleged N30bn debt

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sports director UNICROSS, two others die in Odukpani fatal crash

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

E-Money gifts Carter Efe N50m after victory over Portable

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

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

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

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

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

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

No leadership crisis in PDP – Party Chieftain, Pearse

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ADC candidate blames APC, Accord for Osun labour division

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Osun APC chairman lose wife, Alhaja Fatimah Oreoluwa Lawal

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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