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The South-West Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Kamorudeen Ajisafe, has expressed optimism that the party will win more states and National Assembly seats in the region and across the country in the 2027 general elections.

Ajisafe, in a statement on Tuesday, said the crisis rocking the party would soon be resolved, adding that the PDP would reclaim its position as the dominant party in the South-West and Nigeria.

His comments come amid the ongoing internal crises that have weakened the once-dominant ruling party in the country.

The PDP has, since 2023, been battling internal rifts, with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, leading a faction, while Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, and his Bauchi State counterpart, Bala Mohammed, leading the party.

The two factions have held separate conventions and produced parallel National Working Committee members to steer the affairs of the party.

However, Ajisafe maintained that with efforts being put in place by stakeholders to ensure that PDP aspirants are not stranded, there is no doubt that the “consolidated efforts” will deliver a tangible electoral victory for the party in 2027.

“I will continue to say that those expecting PDP to die will be disappointed. I know for a fact that this crisis will soon end, and after that, we will bounce back. I can assure you that PDP will win more states and National Assembly seats in the South-West and across the country.

“With the achievements of Governor Seyi Makinde in Oyo State, do you think any other party will defeat him? Look at the circular road and other monumental projects he has executed. The governor is also popular among his people, and he enjoys the support of the traditional rulers as well.

“Let me use this opportunity to warn that anybody or any group attempting to incite the traditional institution against Makinde should desist. By every standard, Makinde has raised the bar of governance in Oyo, and with the structure in place in the state, I am confident that the PDP will retain the state.

“We also have a credible and popular candidate in Ekiti State, and with all indications, we are set for victory. PDP will shock critics in 2027. Check all the states in Nigeria, you will see that we have a strong presence, we will win big in 2027,” he stated.

PDP ‘Will Win Big In 2027’, Says South-West Chairman is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

The Deputy Speaker of the Nasarawa State House of Assembly has reportedly been involved in a ghastly motor accident along the Keffi–Akwanga highway.

According to reports, the accident occurred on Monday morning when the lawmaker’s vehicle was involved in a crash along the busy highway. The damaged vehicle was later seen evacuated from the scene and moved to the Assembly complex in Lafia.

Details surrounding the exact cause of the accident and the condition of the Deputy Speaker at the time of filing this report were still unclear, as authorities have yet to release an official statement.

The Keffi–Akwanga axis has witnessed several road traffic incidents in recent times, raising ongoing concerns about safety and enforcement on the route.

Further updates are expected as more information becomes available from relevant authorities.

A new round of defections shook the House of Representatives on Tuesday, with lawmakers switching parties in what many see as early moves ahead of the 2027 general elections.

When plenary resumed after the Easter recess, Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu announced multiple defections through letters read on the floor, pointing to increasing political realignments across parties.

He downplayed fears that the trend suggests a drift toward a one-party system, saying it instead reflects democratic choice.

“This is to show the country that no party is stifled. People are leaving the majority party to the minority parties and the minority parties to the majority party. This is the beauty of democracy,” Kalu said.

One key defection came from Lagos, where Eti-Osa lawmaker Thaddeus Attah left the Labour Party for the African Democratic Congress.

He blamed his move on “the protracted crisis in the leadership of the LP,” noting that it had affected his ability to serve constituents effectively.

The Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, recorded the highest number of losses, with five members leaving its ranks.

Among them, Niger lawmaker Abubakar Abdul moved to the All Progressives Congress, while Yakubu Noma from Kebbi joined the ADC. Another Kebbi representative, Ibrahim Mohammed, also defected to the APC.

In Osun, Mudashiru Alani (Ayedire/Iwo/Ola-Oluwa) and Adetunji Olusoji (Odo-Otin/Ifelodun/Boripe) exited the PDP for the Accord Party.

The APC also lost two members, as Taraba’s David Fuoh switched to the PDP, while Bashir Zubair from Kaduna defected to the ADC, underlining the back-and-forth nature of the political shifts.

Party defections are common in Nigeria, especially as elections draw closer. With less than two years to the 2027 polls, lawmakers are adjusting their affiliations based on internal party crises, electoral strategy, and regional interests.

Ongoing leadership disputes particularly within the PDP and Labour Party have contributed to the latest movements, as parties reposition ahead of primary elections.

For many lawmakers, decisions on party alignment often depend on re-election chances, influence within party structures, and connections to key political blocs.

Since the inauguration of the 10th National Assembly in 2023, the APC has retained majority control in the House, while opposition parties continue to seek strength through alliances and defections.

The growing appeal of smaller parties like the ADC suggests a slow shift away from the long-standing dominance of the APC and PDP.

Observers believe defections could increase in the coming months as political parties finalize their internal arrangements and aspirants begin testing their support base before primaries.

Tuesday’s developments once again highlight a recurring trend in Nigeria’s legislature party loyalty remains flexible, particularly when election stakes are high.

The House later adjourned sitting to Wednesday in honour of Kano lawmaker Hassan Danjuma, who passed away on April 10, 2026, at the age of 66.

PDP loses five Reps, APC two as fresh defections hit House

 

The Federal government has filed a 13-count charge against seven persons linked to an alleged plot to forcefully overthrow President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, terrorize the citizens, and sack democratic governance. 

Six of the alleged coup plotters were nabbed by the Department of State Services (DSS). The seventh, former Governor Timpre Sylva of Bayelsa State, is on the run and is being tried in absentia.

In the suit filed on behalf of the Federal government by the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, had retired Major-General Mohammed Ibrahim Gana, retired Navy Captain Victor Erasmus Ochegobia, a former governor of Bayelsa State, Chief Timpre Sylva, a serving police Inspector, Ahmed Ibrahim. The others are Zekeri Umoru, Bukar Kashim Goni, and Abdulkadir Sani.

The charges filed against them include treasonable felony, conspiracy to overthrow the government, conspiracy to commit terrorism and other offenses related to national security threats. 

The charges are:

That you, MAJOR GENERAL MOHAMMED IBRAHIM GANA – (RTD),

CAPTAIN (NN) ERASMUS OCHEGOBIA VICTOR -(RTD), INSPECTOR

AHMED IBRAHIM(AP776373), ZEKERI UMORU, BUKAR KASHIM

GONI, ABDULKADIR SANI, TIMPRE SYLVA (still at large) and

others, sometime in the year 2025, in Abuja within the jurisdiction of this

Honourable Court, conspired with one another to levy war against the state

to overawe the President of the Federal Republic o f Nigeria and thereby

committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 37(2) of the code cap 38 LFN 2004.

COUNT 2

That you, MAJOR GENERAL MOHAMMED IBRAHIM GANA – (RTD),

CAPTAIN (NN) ERASMUS OCHEGOBIA VICTOR – (RTD), INSPECTOR

AHMED IBRAHIM(AP776373), ZEKERI UMORU, BUKAR KASHIM

GONI, ABDULKADIR SANI, TIMPRE SYLVA(still at large) and

others, sometime in the year 2025, in Abuja within the jurisdiction of this

Honourable Court, knowing that COLONEL MOHAMMED ALHASSAN

MA’AJI (N/10668) and others intended to commit treason, did not give

the information thereof with all reasonable despatch to either the President

of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, or a Peace Officer and thereby committed

an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 40(b) of the Criminal

Code Cap C38 LFN 2004.

COUNT 3

That you, MAJOR GENERAL MOHAMMED IBRAHIM GANA – (RTD),

CAPTAIN (NN) ERASMUS OCHEGOBIA VICTOR – (RTD), INSPECTOR

AHMED IBRAHIM(AP776373), ZEKERI UMORU, BUKAR KASHIM

GONI, ABDULKADIR SANI, TIMPRE SYLVA(still at large) and

others, sometime in the year 2025, in Abuja within the jurisdiction of this

Honorable Court, knowing that COLONEL MOHAMMED ALHASSAN

MA AJI (N/10668), and others intended to commit treason, did not use

any reasonable endeavours to prevent the commission of the offence and

thereby committed an offence contrary t o and punishable under Section

40(b) of the Criminal Code Cap C 38 (LFN) 2004.

COUNT 4

MAJOR GENERAL MOHAMMED IBRAHIM GANA -(RTD), CAPTAIN

(NN) ERASMUS OCHEGOBIA VICTOR -(RTD), INSPECTOR AHMED

IBRAHIM(AP776373), ZEKERI UMORU, BUKAR KASHIM GONEy

ABDULKADIR SANI, TIMPRE SYLVA(still at large) and others, sometime in the year 2025 in Abuja within the jurisdiction of this honorable court conspired with one another to commit an act of Terrorism Federal Republic of Nigeria and thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 26(1) of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.

COUNT 5

That you, INSPECTOR AHMED IBRAHIM (AP 776373) AND ZEKERI

UMORU, sometime in the year 2025 in Abuja, within the jurisdiction of this

Honourable Court, in a bid to further a political ideology which may seriously

destabilize the constitutional structure of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,

knowingly participated in meetings connected with an act of terrorism and

thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Sections

2(3)(d) and 12(a) of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.

COUNT 6

That you, MAJOR GENERAL MOHAMMED IBRAHIM GANA – (RTD),

CAPTAIN (NN) ERASMUS OCHEGOBIA VICTOR -(RTD), INSPECTOR

AHMED IBRAHIM(AP 776373), ZEKERI UMORU, BUKAR KASHIM

GONI, ABDULKADIR SANI, AND TIMPRE SYLVA(still at large), sometime in the year 2025, in Abuja within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court knowingly and indirectly, rendered support to COLONEL

MOHAMMED ALHASSAN MA’AJI (N/10668) and others, to commit an act of terrorism, and thereby committed an offence contrary to and punishable under Section 13(1) (a) of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.

COUNT 7

That you, MAJOR GENERAL MOHAMMED IBRAHIM GANA – (RTD),

CAPTAIN (NN) ERASMUS OCHEGOBIA VICTOR – (RTD), INSPECTOR

AHMED IBRAHIM(AP 776373), ZEKERI UMORU, BUKAR KASHIM

GONI, ABDULKADIR SANI, AND TIMPRE SYLVA(still at large), sometime in the year 2025, in Abuja within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court had information which you knew would be o f material assistance in preventing the commission o f the act o f terrorism by COLONEL MOHAMMED ALHASSAN MA’AJI (N/10668), and others, failed to disclose the information to the relevant agency as soon as practicable, and

thereby committed a n offence contrary to and punishable under Section 16(1)(a) of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.

COUNT 8

That you, MAJOR GENERAL MOHAMMED IBRAHIM GANA – (RTD),

CAPTAIN (NN) ERASMUS OCHEGOBIA VICTOR – (RTD), INSPECTOR

AHMED IBRAHIM(AP 776373), ZEKERI UMORU, BUKAR KASHIM

GONI, ABDULKADIR SANI, AND TIMPRE SYLVA (still at large), sometime in the year 2025, in Abuja within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court had information which you knew would be of material assistance in

securing the apprehension of COLONEL MOHAMMED ALHASSAN MA’AJI (N/10668), and others for a n offence o f terrorism, failed to disclose the information t o the relevant agency as soon as practicable, and

thereby committed a n offence contrary t o and punishable under Section 16(1)(b) of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.

COUNT 9

That you, ABDULKADIR SANI, on o r about the 23rd day of September, 2025, in Abuja, within the jurisdiction of this Honorable Court, indirectly retained the sum of N2,000,000.00(Two Million Naira) only in

your Jaiz Bank Account Number 0005620270 from A & A Express Link

Concept, which sum you reasonably ought to have known forms part of the

proceeds of an unlawful act to wit: terrorism financing, and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 18(2)(d) of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022 and punishable under Section 1 8 (3) of the same Act. 

COUNT 10

That you, BUKAR KASHIM GONI, in September, 2025, In Abuja, with in 

the jurisdiction of this Honorable Court, indirectly retained the aggregate sum of N50,000,000.00(Fifty Million Naira) only in your First Barık Account Number 3021511166 from A & A Express Link Concept, which sum you reasonably ought to have known forms part of the proceeds of

u n unlawful act to wit: terrorism financing, and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 18(2)(d) of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022 and punishable under Section 18 (3) o f the

same Act.

COUNT 1 1

That you, ZEKERI UMORU, in September, 2025, in Abuja, within the

Jurisdiction o f this Honorable Court, without going through a financial

institution accepted a cash payment o f the sum o f N10,000,000.00 (Ten Million Naira) only from Colonel Mohammed Alhassan Maa’aji and thereby committed an offence contrary t o Sections 2(1)(a) and 19(1)(d)

o f the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022 and punishable under Section 19(2)(b) o f the same Act.

COUNT 12

That you, ZEKERI UMORU, in September, 2025, in Abuja, within the jurisdiction of this Honorable Court, indirectly retained the aggregate sum of N8,800,000.00(Eight Million, Eight Hundred Thousand Naira)

only in your Zenith Bank PIc Account Number 2006041878, which sum you

reasonably ought to have known forms part of the proceeds of an unlawful act to wit: terrorism financing, and thereby committed a n offence contrary to Section 18(2)(d) o f the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022 and punishable under Section 18 (3) o f the same Act.

COUNT 13

That you, INSPECTOR AHMED IBRAHIM, in September, 2025, in Abuja, within the jurisdiction o f this Honorable Court, directly took possession of the sum of N1,000,000.00(One Million Naira) only from COLONEL MOHAMMED ALHASSAN MA’AJI (N/10668), which sum you reasonably

ought to have known forms part of the proceeds of an unlawful act to terrorism financing, and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 18(2)(d) of the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022 and punishable under Section 18 (3) of the same Act.

A former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress, Timi Frank, has criticised the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, over his recent remarks on the African Democratic Congress.

Frank, in a statement issued in Abuja on Tuesday, described the comment as reckless and dangerous, saying it could encourage internal crisis within opposition parties and undermine Nigeria’s democracy.

He also called on the United States government to investigate and sanction the former Speaker of the House of Representatives, alleging that his actions could weaken democratic institutions.

The controversy stems from comments made by Gbajabiamila, a former Speaker of the House of Representatives, during the 50th birthday celebration of the wife of the member representing Yagba federal constituency, House of Representatives, Hon. Leke Abejide in Abuja.

A video from the event, which surfaced online on Monday, captured him urging Abejide to remain in the ADC and intensify internal resistance amid the party’s ongoing leadership crisis.

The ADC has been embroiled in factional disputes in recent months, with rival camps laying claim to its leadership. Meanwhile, the Independent National Electoral Commission has declined to recognise either side pending legal clarity.

Reacting, Frank argued that the Chief of Staff’s comments go beyond political banter and raise serious constitutional concerns, particularly given his position in government.

“Your statement, as Chief of Staff, raises serious concerns about the determination by President Bola Tinubu’s regime to truncate democracy.

“An inference can be made that there is an infringement on the independence of the judiciary,” he said.

He warned that any suggestion of political interference in judicial processes could erode public trust in democratic institutions.

Timi warned that any suggestion that courts could be influenced “undermines public confidence in democratic institutions,” citing references to political actors, including Leke Abejide, as requiring clarification to avoid “dangerous interpretations.”

According to him, the remarks reinforce suspicions of executive interference in the internal crises affecting opposition parties, including the Peoples Democratic Party, Labour Party, New Nigeria Peoples Party and the ADC.

“When a Chief of Staff speaks, it reflects the body language of the President. This points to a deliberate attempt to weaken opposition and consolidate power.

“The audacity of the statement suggests nothing will happen even if opposition parties are destabilised. That is dangerous,” he added.

Frank further described Gbajabiamila as “an alter ego of the President” who had “displayed the arrogance of power,” insisting that public office holders must exercise restraint and respect constitutional boundaries.

He also called on the United States government to investigate and possibly sanction the presidential aide, alleging that his conduct could have broader implications for democratic governance.

“As an American citizen, he should be held accountable. We want to know if he is meeting his tax obligations in line with his earnings in Nigeria,” Frank said, describing him as “a bad ambassador of the United States.”

“We call for his resignation with immediate effect. If such a statement were made in the United States, the official involved would have resigned forthwith,” he said.

He added that he plans to petition the U.S. Embassy in Nigeria, stressing that “those entrusted with leadership must reflect humility, constitutional awareness and respect for separation of powers.”

In the viral clip that triggered the backlash, Gbajabiamila was heard rallying support for Abejide within the ADC’s internal contest.

“I know you to be a committed party man. I know you to be a fighter. I know you to be someone who does not like to be cheated. So please, my charge to you is to stay in that same ADC. Fight them. Scatter them. Hold on to your party, ADC. Do not abandon them.

“We like what you are doing. Continue. Don’t mind what the former governor said, that they will come and join the APC. No, no, no. Stay in ADC. Win your re-election in the ADC, and you will.

“Bring Gombe, what’s his name again? Bala Gombe. Bring him. Do the right thing. You are a fighter. Do the right thing. Nobody can come and take your party away from you. A party that you have built with your sweat, your money, and everything. Continue. Good luck in court,” he stated.

Gbajabiamila Should Be Sanctioned Over ‘Scatter ADC’ Comment – Timi Frank is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

The Catholic Laity Council of Nigeria, CLCN, has again expressed concern over the level of attacks and senseless killings across Nigeria.

DAILY POST reports that this formed part of the resolution by the Council after its 157th National Executive Council, NEC, meeting, held in Ondo State.

While describing the killings as inhuman, unjustifiable, and a great assault on the sanctity of life, the Council urged the government to double its efforts towards the protection of lives and property.

It also decried the level of suffering by the vast majority of Nigerian masses, urging concrete action from the authorities.

CLCN emphasized that true development in modern society required a shift from measuring success solely by Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to measuring the effective improvement of human conditions and empowerment.

The resolution, signed by Sir Ambrose Obioha, National President and Mr Francis Olayinka Ojo, Secretary General, said: “The Council decries and condemns in strong terms the incessant violent attacks and senseless killings across the country, as these acts are inhuman, unjustifiable, and a great assault on the sanctity of life.

“The Council calls for urgent and coordinated actions from all stakeholders, especially those entrusted with governance and security, to protect life and property with seriousness and accountability.

“The Council also condemns the widening gap between the rich and the poor, as well as the rising hardship which deepens the suffering of many Nigerians, and calls on Nigerians to speak against injustice, promote peace, defend the vulnerable, and uphold the dignity of every human person.

“The Council calls on all lay faithful to live out their faith authentically and commit themselves to justice, truth, and service to enable them to contribute meaningfully to building a safer, more just, and more peaceful Nigeria.

“It urges a rededication of leaders at all levels to the sacred duty of protecting lives and properties while implementing sustainable economic policies that prioritize human dignity for the common good of our nation.

“The need for Nigerians to challenge inequality and advocate for fairness by fostering inclusive environments that create spaces where citizens feel valued and included was emphasized by the Council.”

While charging the faithful to remain politically active in the country, the Council said it was observing the performance of all elected office holders in Nigeria.

“The Council continues to observe the performance of all elected officers in Nigeria: the Presidency, Governors, National Assembly, State Assemblies, and Local Governments.

“We remain committed to promoting civic education and responsible citizenship, and will encourage the lay faithful to exercise their civic duty through informed participation in free, fair, and credible elections.

“We believe that our collective votes are a powerful tool for entrenching leaders who will guide our nation on the path of peace, prosperity, and progress.

“We remain steadfast in advocating for the oppressed and ensuring that the common good is central to governance in Nigeria,” it further stated.

Meanwhile, the Council acknowledged the newly elected President of the Catholic Bishop Conference of Nigeria (CBCN), Most Rev. Matthew Man-Oso NDAGOSO, principal officers, the chairman of the Pastoral Agents Department, Most Rev. Isaac Bundepuun DUGU, and the newly elected Bishop chairman for the Laity committee, Most Rev. Wilfred Chikpa ANAGBE, CMF (Bishop Makurdi), wishing them well in their offices.

It equally at the meeting commiserated with the President of the CBCN and the Diocese of Abakaliki on the sudden demise of his Lordship Most Rev. Peter Nworie Chukwu who passed on days ago.

Catholic Laity Council raises concern over worsening insecurity, hardship in Nigeria

The Nigerian naira depreciated against the United States (US) dollar, trading at N1,349.6737 per dollar at the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) official foreign exchange window…

The post Naira opens trading week with N6 loss against dollar at official market appeared first on Tribune Online.

A Kaduna State High Court on Tuesday adjourned the hearing of a bail application filed by former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, to the first week of June 2026.

The adjournment was granted by Justice Darius Khobo during proceedings in the corruption case instituted by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).

El-Rufai is currently standing trial as the sole defendant following an amendment to the charge, which saw the removal of his former co-accused.

According to the ICPC, the former governor is facing allegations of multiple financial infractions during his administration. These include the approval of about N11 billion for a light-rail project that was allegedly not executed, the payment of approximately N289.8 million in excess severance packages, the handling of over 1.08 million dollars in World Bank funds, and the award of a N4.6 billion CCTV contract said to have violated due process.

The defendant has denied all allegations.

At an earlier sitting, defence counsel raised objections to last-minute amendments made to the charge by the prosecution, arguing that the changes disrupted proceedings and affected their preparation.

The case has experienced repeated adjournments in recent weeks, drawing public attention due to its high-profile nature.

The latest development comes shortly after a Federal High Court in Kaduna granted El-Rufai bail in a separate ICPC matter. However, he remains entangled in multiple legal proceedings, including another case involving a 10-count charge bordering on alleged money laundering and conversion of public assets.

Proceedings are expected to resume in June as both parties prepare to continue arguments on the bail application.

Court Adjourns El-Rufai Bail Hearing To June is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

The Labour Party has released the list of chairmen and members of its electoral subcommittees for the forthcoming ward, local government, and state congresses across the country, as part of preparations for its 2026 National Convention.

A statement issued on Tuesday in Abuja by the Senior Special Adviser (Media) to the Interim National Chairman, Ken Asogwa, said the subcommittees were constituted to oversee the conduct of the congresses in their respective states.

The party had earlier announced its timetable, with ward congresses scheduled for Thursday, April 23, local government congresses on Friday, April 24, and state congresses on Saturday, April 25.

The subcommittees comprise experienced party members tasked with ensuring a credible and transparent process.

Those appointed as chairmen include Iheanacho Obioma (Abia); Francis Kim (Adamawa); Ekong Philip Solomon (Akwa Ibom); Chief Tony Asuoha (Anambra); Mustapha Adamu (Bauchi); Beredugo Ebimonyo (Bayelsa); Chief John Ochoga (Benue); Buratai (Borno); Urom P. Iyang (Cross River); Chuks Onitsha (Delta); Chief Mitchell Nwabueze (Ebonyi); Dr. Saliu Edogiawerie (Edo), Usman Mohammed (Niger); Owolabi Ezekiel (Ogun); Charles Afolabi (Ondo) and Balogun Ibrahim (Osun).

Also appointed are Babatunde Yusuf (Oyo); Fakorede Matthew (Ekiti); Dr. David Ogba (Enugu); Adoga S. Knaabayi (Gombe); Chinagorom Nwankpa (Imo); Mustapha Garba (Jigawa); Dr. Emmanuel Barau (Kaduna); and Kabiru Said (Kano). Ishaku Izang (Plateau); Amaobi Ogah (Rivers); Prof Muhamuda Muhammad (Sokoto); Jesse Williams (Taraba); Mukhtar Hassan (Yobe); and Haila Ayuba Baja (Zamfara).

Ismail Bello (Katsina); Muh’d H. Birnin (Kebbi); Hon. Samuel Ajare (Kogi); Bodunde David Adebayo (Kwara); Chukwuemeka Ogbanna (Lagos); Dr. Muttaqa Yushau (Nasarawa); and Comrade Rose Uba-Anarah (FCT).

In a message to the appointees, the National Chairman of the party, Senator Nenadi Usman, urged them to discharge their duties with fairness and integrity.

“I charge you to carry out your responsibilities with utmost fairness, transparency, and integrity. You should always uphold the Party’s core values of equal opportunity and social justice.

“I also want you to reflect these principles in the discharge of your duties. The credibility of the Labour Party must be upheld throughout the congress process.

“As you are aware, our National Convention will be held on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, in Umuahia, Abia State. I want to assure all our members and supporters that adequate arrangements have been made to ensure a smooth and successful convention,” she said.

LP Announces Subcommittees For Party Congresses is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

Some Nigerians and armchair analysts are often quick to criticise the Federal Government for perceived shortcomings in security, highlighting isolated incidents such as kidnappings, improvised explosive devices, suicide bombings, and attacks in parts of the country.

Such perceptions, however, tend to downplay and discount the heroic exploits of members of the Nigerian armed forces, saddled with the responsibility of countering the evil machinations of God-forsaken non-state actors, who operate like guerrillas.

My position is reinforced by the security reports I receive daily from Zagazola Makama, a journalist who has emerged as a counter-insurgency expert in Nigeria. This past week alone, Zagazola inundated me with reports from multiple theatres, indicating that our troops are making significant gains in the asymmetrical war against insurgents, terrorists, ISWAP, Boko Haram, IPOB, bandits, kidnappers, and crude oil thieves.

Let’s begin with some heartening news that made headlines on Monday.

A few days ago, some newspapers sensationally reported that gunmen kidnapped 14 passengers of a Benue Links bus travelling from Makurdi to Otukpo. Seventeen passengers were in the bus, among them eight youngsters going to write the UTME. Three of the passengers escaped from the clutch of the abductors.

On Sunday, April 19, troops of Sub-Sector 1B, OPWS rescued the remaining 13 passengers following a search-and-rescue operation conducted in a forested area in Ohimini Local Government Area.

“Security sources,” according to Zagazola, “clarified that the perpetrators were local criminal elements in Benue and not Fulani bandits as initially speculated in some quarters. The media hastily attributed the attack to external groups without proper verification”.

Those rescued include Hycent Oko (56), Elaiguli Joshua (25), Orili Raphael (29), Sunday Augustine (18), Emmanuel Elaicha (21), Gbile Nguyor Daniel (18), Ukacha Tersoo (18), Nyikwagh Aoridakator (22), Iornav Ngukuhan (18), Nyikwagh Benjamin (18), Buker Agatha (19), Paul Wende (29) and Akor Jessica (19).

The victims were evacuated to the General Hospital in Otukpo for medical attention, as some of them sustained varying degrees of injuries during their captivity. Later, some of the victims had a photo-op with Governor Hyancinth Alia, who appealed to JAMB to set another examination for the traumatised youngsters.

The incident illustrated a growing trend of locally grown criminality, where local elements exploit familiar terrain and community networks to carry out abductions.

On Saturday night, April 18, troops were alerted by gunshots along the Kpashio-Ansa Road in Bassa LGA of Plateau State. They rapidly responded and found three wounded victims of the gun attacks by the roadside. They were travelling on a motorcycle when they came under a burst of gunfire. The gunmen stole the motorcycle. The troops evacuated the three victims to a nearby hospital. One died, and two survived.

On the same April 18, troops under Sector 1 of Operation Enduring Peace arrested two suspects in Jos North Local Government, one of them, Khalid Usman, for stabbing a police inspector. The other suspect, Ali Izang, was arrested at about 0615 hrs near the Correctional Centre. He had a round of 7.62mm ammunition.

Troops of Operation Enduring Peace also arrested nine ethnic militiamen responsible for targeted killings. They recovered arms and ammunition following an operation in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State, amid ongoing security concerns linked to recurring attacks and cycles of violence in the area.

The suspects were arrested at about 0135 hours on April 18, 2026, when troops deployed at Ganawuri responded to reports of the suspects moving towards the Danwal area.

The troops intercepted and apprehended the suspects, who were found with blood stains on their bodies, raising suspicion of recent involvement in silent killings.

Items recovered from them include three motorcycles, one pistol, one submachine gun, one locally made revolver rifle, 20 rounds of pistol ammunition, and one locally fabricated rifle, among other items.

The arrest came amid sustained insecurity in parts of Plateau State, where communities in Riyom, Barkin Ladi, Bokkos, Mangu and surrounding areas have witnessed repeated incidents of violent attacks and reprisals. Across these flashpoints, the patterns are consistent, which suggests that perpetrators of violence are not faceless outsiders operating in isolation.

“Sources said that the suspects were currently in custody, providing information, and are responsible for carrying out a series of attacks in recent months, which have escalated violence and reprisal attacks in Plateau State,” Zagazola reported.

In recent months, security reports have indicated a pattern of violence involving Fulani bandits and armed elements of the Berom operating within local communities.

The most recent development occurred on April 13 at about 0700 hrs, when troops under Operation Enduring Peace (OPEP) conducted a search-and-rescue operation in Ariri and Kwasha villages of Bassa LGA following reports of a missing herder. During the operation, troops discovered the corpse of the herder and recovered 32 cattle alive, while three others were found dead. The troops handed the remains of the herdsman and livestock to community leaders.

On the same day, troops responded to intelligence on an illegal settlers’ camp in Ungwan Doki, Riyom LGA, where four suspected migrants were arrested. On April 12, at about 1440 HOURS, troops restored calm after a clash between farmers and herders in Rakum village, Barkin Ladi LGA. Five locals, two herders, and a police officer sustained injuries after being attacked by the Berom Militia. The troops arrested one suspect.

Earlier, at about 1222 HOURS in Rasa village, troops foiled another attack on a herder by suspected armed Berom elements and evacuated the injured victim to the hospital. At about 2100 HRS, troops responded to sporadic gunfire along Hukke–Rewienko road in Bassa LGA, repelling attackers and rescuing an injured civilian.

In a related development, at about 1800 HOURS, troops foiled an attempted cattle rustling incident in Kpashio village, recovering 92 cattle reportedly abandoned by fleeing suspects.

Within the same period, armed Berom Militia engaged troops of Operation Enduring Peace in a heavy gun battle in Barkin Ladi. The troops killed five of the attackers. Later that same day, the corpses were hastily buried by the community to avoid the determination of the identity of the attackers.

On April 11 at about 2145 HOURS, troops responded to an ambush in the Tanjol community, where a 21-year-old resident, Joseph Irmiya, was attacked by Fulani bandits. The victim later died from injuries.

Shortly after, troops intercepted an attempted attack on the Rim community by Berom militants, where one youth sustained gunshot wounds. Separately, troops conducting stop-and-search operations in Kuru, Jos South LGA, at about 2030 HOURS, arrested two suspects in possession of a pistol and ammunition.

Troops have continued operations across flashpoints in Riyom and neighbouring LGAs, with authorities maintaining that sustained patrols, arrests and recovery of arms are aimed at restoring lasting peace in the area.

Still in Plateau, troops of Operation Safe Haven reported the suspected poisoning of nine cattle in Rakum Village, Kassa District of Barkin Ladi Local Government Area. The cattle belonged to one Dauda Jalo. Some Berom youths were suspected of poisoning the grazing field. An incident like this is usually the precursor of a reprisal attack in the community, as the cattle owner wants to take the blood of humans as a form of revenge for his dead cattle. This is one incident, along with cattle rustling, that has made peace elusive on the Plateau for decades.

In Borno state, troops of Operation Hadin Kai neutralised two terrorists on April 18 as they foiled an attempted attack by Boko Haram/ISWAP along the Kirawa-Pulka axis. The insurgents, riding on bikes, along with others, were trying to infiltrate the Ngoshe axis when the troops of 153 Task Battalion confronted them. The others escaped, as their comrade in arms fell to our troops’ superior firepower. The troops recovered a walkie-talkie radio set from the neutralised insurgents.

In Yobe, troops arrested three ISWAP logistics suppliers during an operation in the Damaturu Local Government Area. The suspects, believed to be linked to ISWAP and Boko Haram elements, were apprehended at about 3:00 p.m. on April 15, 2026, by troops of 233 Battalion in collaboration with members of a local hunters’ group.

Also in Borno on 16 April, troops of Operation Hadin Kai repelled a terrorist attack in Benisheikh, Kaga Local Government Area of Borno State. The incident occurred at about 8:30 a.m. on April 16, 2026, when the terrorists launched an assault on troops of Headquarters 29 Task Force Brigade, the second time in recent days.

According to the sources, the troops engaged the attackers in a firefight, forcing them to retreat in disarray. The soldiers pursued the fleeing insurgents but did not make further contact.

On April 17, troops of Operation Hadin Kai discovered and detonated an improvised explosive device (IED) in Mairari town along the Gajiram axis of Borno State.

The device was detected at about 9:00 a.m. by an Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) and route-scanning team deployed from a Forward Operating Base in the area. The IED, found at the edge of the town’s exit gate, raises concerns about potential threats to both civilians and security personnel using the route.

In Auchi, Edo state, troops of 195 Battalion, responding to a distress call, foiled a kidnap attempt on the morning of August 16 at Iyuku in Jattu. Before the troops arrived, three of the kidnapped victims had overpowered one of the kidnappers and seized his Ak 47, loaded with nine rounds of 7.62mm ammunition. The troops pursued the rest of the kidnappers. They rescued other kidnapped victims, arrested five of the kidnappers, and handed them to the DSS for justice.

In the North West, soldiers of 8 Division repelled an attack by suspected terrorists in Garin Hillo Village, Sabon Birni Local Government Area of Sokoto State. The incident occurred in the early hours of April 17, when troops deployed at a Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Gatawa responded to reports of terrorist activities in the area.

On arrival, the troops made contact with the attackers and engaged them in a shootout, forcing the attackers to retreat.

Further inquiry revealed that about 30 armed terrorists had stormed the village on foot, firing sporadically and causing panic among residents. As a result of the attack, six civilians sustained gunshot wounds.

The injured victims were evacuated to the General Hospital in Sabon Birni for medical attention. Troops continue to dominate the area to prevent further attacks and ensure the safety of residents.

In central Nigeria, troops of 12 Brigade under Operation MESA destroyed a suspected terrorist camp and intercepted a logistics courier in Yagba West Local Government Area of Kogi State.

The operation on April 16 was carried out in the early hours following credible intelligence on the presence of a suspected terrorist camp between Ejiba and Ofi communities. The troops, in conjunction with Police and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), mobilised from their Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Egbe and advanced to the location.

During the operation, the troops intercepted a suspected courier on a motorcycle who was delivering food items to the camp. However, the suspect fled on sighting the troops, abandoning the motorcycle and the items.

The troops proceeded to locate and destroy the suspected camp. No firefight between the troops and the terrorists. Again, this incident shows how civilians collaborate with the terrorists.

In the East, on April 16, Joint security forces comprising personnel of the Nigerian Army, Navy, Air Force, Police, Department of State Services, and Civil Defence Corps conducted a fighting patrol in Orsu Local Government Area of Imo State, leading to the discovery and safe disposal of improvised explosive devices.

The operation took place at about 9:50 a.m. within the Uda general area. An Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team discovered two improvised explosive devices during the patrol and safely defused them.

On the international front, Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, participated in a high-level counterterrorism panel at the Antalya Diplomacy Forum 2026 in Türkiye, where leaders and experts discussed strategies for countering violent extremism, stressing international cooperation and intelligence sharing.

I have taken the time to present this comprehensive account of the recent heroic exploits of the Nigerian armed forces to underscore that our troops are resolutely prosecuting this asymmetric war, fearlessly defending us all, and making sacrifices—some paying the supreme price. Challenges remain, and the battle is far from over. However, what the armed forces and government deserve from us is appreciation and commendation, not condemnation and vilification.

-Onanuga is Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy

OPINION: Celebrating Our Military’s Heroic Actions Across Multiple Theatres is first published on The Whistler Newspaper