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The Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, governorship candidate in Ekiti State, Wole Oluyede, has challenged Governor Biodun Oyebanji to a public debate ahead of the June 20, 2026 election, as he unveiled a set of policy proposals aimed at addressing what he described as governance shortcomings under the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC.

Oluyede threw the challenge during a strategic meeting with party members drawn from the 177 wards across the state, held in Ikere Ekiti on Saturday.

He said the debate would provide an opportunity for both candidates to clearly outline their plans and allow citizens to make informed choices.

The PDP candidate identified key areas where the current administration has underperformed, including delayed gratuity payments, limited access to affordable healthcare, poor infrastructure, unemployment, and inadequate grassroots economic stimulation.To tackle these issues, Oluyede proposed a structured and transparent gratuity payment plan to clear arrears owed to retirees, noting that restoring confidence in the system would boost morale among public servants.

He also pledged to introduce a comprehensive and affordable health insurance scheme designed to reach vulnerable populations, especially in rural communities.

On job creation, Oluyede outlined plans to stimulate small and medium-scale enterprises through targeted grants, vocational training, and public-private partnerships. He emphasized agriculture and agro-processing as key sectors that could absorb thousands of unemployed youths if properly funded and managed.

“We are ready to be held accountable by Ekiti people. Our plans are practical, measurable, and people-focused,” Oluyede said, stressing his willingness to answer questions from citizens on his vision for the state.

Addressing concerns over his recent reconciliation moves within the party, Oluyede urged members not to feel alienated, describing the effort as necessary for unity and electoral victory. He called on supporters to intensify grassroots mobilization and ensure maximum voter turnout.

Earlier, factional Chairman of PDP, Tunji Odeyemi, charged members to adopt an “operation win-your-unit” strategy, emphasizing that success at the unit level would translate into overall victory at the polls.

Also speaking, party leader and former lawmaker, Senator Duro Faseyi, described Oluyede’s emergence as the party’s candidate as divinely ordained, urging members to remain united and committed to the campaign.

The meeting was attended by key stakeholders, including the Director General of the Oluyede Campaign Council, Makanjuola Ogundipe; former Head of Service, Gbenga Faseluka; former Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Kola Oluwawole; and former lawmaker, Kehinde Odebunmi.as they believed the call for a public debate and issue-based campaign may shape voters perception, particularly as candidates present competing solutions to Ekiti’s developmental challenges.

Ekiti 2026: Oluyede challenges Oyebanji to debate, unveils plans to fix governance gaps

The Minister of State for Industry, Senator John Owan Enoh, has tasked the management of Flour Mills of Nigeria PLC on the need to expand the annual production capacity of its subsidiary, the Golden Sugar Company (GSC), to 300,000 metric tonnes by the year 2030.
 
The Minister, accompanied by the Executive Secretary of the National Sugar Development Council (NSDC), Mr Kamar Bakrin, gave the charge when he visited the GSC Complex in Sunti, Niger state.
 
The visit was the third in the series of strategic inspection of sugar projects across the country in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive to concerned officials for the acceleration of Nigeria’s attainment of self-sufficiency in sugar production.

The Minister and the NSDC boss visited the Lafiagi Sugar Company (LASUCO) owned by BUA Foods in Lafiagi, Kwara state, on Monday, December 15, 2025. The duo were at the Dangote Sugar Refinery (DSR) Complex on Wednesday, April 8, 2026.
 
In Sunti, the Minister noted that the current local sugar production in the country is a long distance away from the 1.8m metric tonnes that the country consumes annually, adding that, the GSC must contribute 300,000 metric tonnes in the year 2030.

He said he was impressed by the volume of activities going on in the complex, saying it amounts to huge value addition.

“It is a reflection of the implementation of the government’s Backward Integration Programme (BIP). It also demonstrates that there is a business going on; there is an industry with all the elements that you can think about.

“People are gainfully employed. At its peak, I understand this facility has about 4,500 workers. So, government’s requirement for gainful employment is itself achieved here.

“I have never stopped getting amazed at what production can be. From the farm, you get to the factory and find sugar produced.
“This itself begins to demonstrate the ability of the country, of these business people, and of the industry to achieve set targets.

“While we can praise this to be an implementation of the BIP, it still falls quite short in terms of what expectations are of that policy.
But I am glad that there is an ambition that by 2030 the annual output is going to increase to 300,000 metric tonnes,” the Minister said.

He reaffirmed government’s commitment to industrialisation and continued support for industrialists, including fiscal incentives and funding efforts.

“We are not there yet, but there is commitment; there is push, and the government itself is serious about industrialisation,” he noted.

Also speaking, the NSDC boss acknowledged the significant strides the GSC has made in recent times, but added that the journey is still far ahead and a lot has to be done to meet set targets.

“Without a doubt, we consistently acknowledge the very impressive strides that they make. We appreciate the commitment, the creativity they bring to developing projects.

“At the same time, we are relentless in pointing out numerous opportunities for improvement because we have a very significant journey ahead of us. It’s not going to be achieved by us passing the buck constantly, but by holding each other accountable for delivering results. Not just delivering results, but delivering results in a cost effective and timely manner.

“The commitment of government to this is beyond question. The support that government has provided and will continue to provide is beyond question and the requirement for accountability is going to remain the same. At the Sugar Council, we have a very senior team that is dedicated to supporting the Golden Sugar Company,” he said.

The Group Chief Executive Officer of GSC, Mr Boye Olusanya, disclosed that the company currently cultivates about 6,600 hectares, producing about 20,000 metric tonnes of sugar annually, with plans to scale up to 290,000 metric tonnes by the end of 2030.

 While the delegation undertook a farm and factory tour of the facility, the highlight of the visit was the commissioning of the Sugar Training School built by the GSC and located with the complex.

Sugar Production: FG Tasks Flour Mills On 300,000MT Target is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

…Slashes Debt Burden By 74% To N48bn In Three Years

…Reforms Reposition Abia From Debt Pressure To Prosperity

In less than three years of his administration, the Governor of Abia State, Dr Alex Otti, has reduced the inherited debt burden of the state from N191bn to about N48bn

The reduction was revealed by Dr Benson Nwaigburu, General Manager of the Abia State Debt Management Office.

Nwaigburu described the development as a landmark achievement in fiscal governance and evidence that prudent leadership, transparency, and responsible economic management can deliver measurable progress within a short period.

When Otti assumed office on May 29, 2023, the state was weighed down by a huge debt profile accumulated over several years by previous administrations.

The inherited liabilities had become a major obstacle to growth and development, limiting the government’s ability to invest in infrastructure, deliver essential services, meet obligations promptly, and inspire confidence among investors.

As of the time the present administration took over, many residents were concerned about the effect of the mounting debt burden on the future of the state.

However, the Debt Office Boss said Governor Otti’s administration immediately introduced reforms centred on fiscal discipline, transparency, accountability, and strategic planning.

Rather than accumulate fresh loans, the government focused on strengthening internally generated revenue, blocking financial leakages, reducing wasteful expenditure, and ensuring that public funds were directed toward productive and priority sectors.

“These bold and deliberate actions have produced outstanding results,” Nwaigburu stated.

He disclosed that the state had so far paid down over N142bn from the inherited debt stock without contracting fresh loans.

According to him, this has reduced the debt balance to approximately N48.4bn.

He added that the sharp decline represents about 74.3 per cent of the debt inherited by the current administration.

The Debt Management Office boss said the feat places Abia among the states making notable progress in debt reduction and fiscal responsibility since 2023.

He stressed that repaying more than 70 per cent of inherited liabilities within less than three years is a strong fiscal performance by sub-national standards, especially at a period when many states across the federation have either maintained or increased their debt profiles.

For many observers, he said, the achievement is proof that sound economic management can reverse even the most difficult financial conditions.

Nwaigburu stated that every reduction in debt creates fresh opportunities for development because funds that would have gone into servicing liabilities can now be redirected to people-oriented projects.

He listed roads, schools, healthcare, pensions, salaries, youth empowerment, security, and economic expansion as areas expected to benefit from the improved fiscal position of the state.

He explained that lower debt levels would also boost investor confidence, as businesses are often attracted to states with stable finances, predictable policies, and prudent governance.

“The people of Abia State are witnessing governance driven by results, not excuses,” he said.

He further noted that under Governor Otti, Abia is being steadily repositioned from debt pressure to prosperity and sustainable growth.

According to him, the administration has shown that leadership is not merely about making promises but about taking practical decisions that improve the welfare of citizens.

Nwaigburu also highlighted reforms within the Abia State Debt Management Office, saying the agency had remained largely inactive and ineffective before the appointment of a new management team by Governor Otti.

He said the office has since undergone significant transformation through policies anchored on accountability, transparency, and integrity.

The changes, he explained, have strengthened debt monitoring systems, improved reporting standards, and aligned the office with the broader fiscal reform agenda of the government.

He added that the transformation demonstrates how institutions can become effective when led with competence and a clear sense of purpose.

The governor’s approach to governance reflects his private sector background, where efficiency, performance, and measurable outcomes are highly valued.

This mindset has helped drive the reforms that are now producing visible results across the state.

Residents and stakeholders have continued to commend the administration for showing courage in tackling inherited financial burdens rather than postponing difficult decisions.

Many say the reduction in debt sends a strong message that Abia is charting a new economic path built on discipline and sustainability.

A healthier debt profile gives the state greater room to finance capital projects, respond to emerging needs, and plan for long-term growth without excessive dependence on borrowing.

The reduced debt obligations can free future administrations from financial constraints and create continuity in development planning.

Nwaigburu commended Governor Otti for what he described as bold and visionary leadership.

He urged residents to continue supporting policies that promote financial responsibility, transparency, and sustainable development.

He said the progress already made should encourage even greater confidence in the state’s future.

As the administration approaches its third year in office, supporters say the dramatic fall in the debt burden stands as one of its defining accomplishments.

They believe the achievement will remain a reference point in discussions about prudent governance and effective public finance management in Nigeria.

ENDS

Otti Repays N141bn Out Of Inherited N191bn Abia Debt is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

In the renewed fight against insurgent activities, the Nigerian Army has arrested over 20 suspected terrorists and other suspected criminals in a coordinated nationwide operation within the last 24 hours. This was contained in an operational report made available to the Nigerian Tribune on Sunday at the Nigerian Army Headquarters in Abuja. It explained that […]

The Vice Chairman of Ezinihitte Mbaise Local Council, Imo State, Prince Mathew Igbokwe has been suspended indefinitely by the Council’s Legislative Assembly following his alleged involvement in armed robbery and other administrative misconducts.

In a press statement signed by the Legislative members of the council under the leadership of Benson Mgbechi, the decision to suspend the Council’s Vice Chairman, was taken during a plenary session, where a seven-day ultimatum was given to the Vice Chairman to appear before it.

The motion for the Vice Chairman’s suspension was moved by the Chief Whip, Ajaa Echezolachi and seconded by the Deputy leader, Steven Echeta and adopted by the members present during the plenary.

The press statement revealed that the suspension of Igbokwe followed a series of serious allegations of misconduct which include consistent absence from official duties and traveling outside the state without obtaining the necessary permission from the Council.

“Such actions are considered a dereliction of duty and a breach of official protocols expected of a high-ranking public servant.
The most damaging of the accusations, is that Igbokwe is alleged to be involved in armed robbery and other unspecified crimes. This serious claim is reportedly substantiated by his arrest and detention by the Lagos State Police Command, providing a critical piece of evidence cited by the Assembly.

” Igbokwe’s alleged odious activities have brought immense shame and ridicule upon the Government of Imo State, the Executive Chairman of Ezinihitte Mbaise Local Government and the entire populace of the Council,” the release stated.

The Legislative body, in the press statement emphasized that such conduct is unbecoming of a person occupying the very high office of Vice Chairman.

The Leadership of the Legislative Council, added that its swift and decisive action is firmly rooted in the provisions of law No. 6, 2022 of the Nigerian Constitution of Administration as amended.

It maintained that the expedited move is crucial to salvage the name and image of the Council which have been dragged to the mud.

“The aim is to prove to the whole world that Ezinihitte Mbaise people are not known with such odious character and attitude,” the statement added.

Imo LGA vice chairman suspended over alleged armed robbery, others

“In my own school days, examination malpractice was an unknown phenomenon. But now, even some parents…”

The Hallmarks of Labour Foundation (HLF) has marked its 29th anniversary with an awards ceremony recognising 13 outstanding Nigerians for

The Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has said the era of “trade by barter” politics is over in the All Progressives Grand Alliance( APGA), insisting that the party will no longer serve as a “rented platform” for personal ambition.

Soludo, who is also APGA’s national leader, said the party has adopted the Option A4 system to curb electoral manipulation and enhance transparency, while reducing what he described as wasteful spending on vote buying.

The governor stated this while addressing party members at the South-East Zonal Stakeholders’ meeting held at the International Convention Centre, Awka.

Soludo, who issued a warning to party leaders and members, also outlined guidelines for the conduct of the party’s forthcoming primary elections, insisting that the exercise would not be “business as usual.”

In a post on his Facebook page on Sunday, the governor urged party members to remain committed to APGA’s long-term survival.

“Something significant happened at our APGA South-East Zonal Stakeholders’ meeting — the first of its kind in over 20 years. We did not just gather to talk. We gathered to rebuild.

“Let me be blunt: the era of ‘trade by barter’ politics in APGA is over. This party will no longer be a rented platform for personal ambition. The era of the ‘gift-ticket’ must end now. We are building a proper movement where loyalty matters and tickets are not for sale.

“In 2024, we became the first party in Nigeria to fully digitise our membership register. That means every registered member now has the right to vote and be voted for. No more shadows. We have also adopted Option A-4 for our primaries — open, transparent, and fair to all.

“But structure without funding is fantasy. That is why we are returning to the ‘student days’ model. Members must own this party through dues. A committee will soon roll out a sustainable funding system so we stop depending on business interests that have limited our growth.

“Our National Chairman, Sly Ezeokenwa, has laid out the new rules: Expression of Interest first, then screening, before Nomination Forms,” he wrote.

He urged party executives to remain neutral or resign if they intend to support any aspirant, adding that “these are tough rules, but serious parties do tough things”.

“I thank the National and State Working Committees of our great Party for their commitment to this new direction.

“My charge to all of us is simple: let us commit to APGA’s long-term survival. Aspire with integrity. Stop ‘holding briefs.’ Stop jumping platforms.

“Let us build a disciplined, national movement anchored on transparency, equity, and justice. The work has begun,” he added.

Trade By Barter Politics In APGA Over Says Soludo is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

The All Progressives Congress, APC, governorship candidate in Osun State, Bola Oyebamiji, has said, if voted in on August 15, will integrate non-indigenes and other interest groups in the state.

Oyebamiji made this known on Sunday during a public engagement with Arewa Community in Ibokun town, Obokun local government council area of the state.

Represented by Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, a former special adviser to former Governor Adegboyega Oyetola on Civic Engagement, Oyebamiji said that his administration would implement a structural approach to fostering all-inclusive, all participatory government that will embrace all social strata.

“This framework will bridge the gap between the government and the grassroots, ensuring that public policies are based on the direct needs and input of the citizenry,” he said.

The APC guber candidate reiterated that the people will be adequately carried along in the policy formation and implementation of his programmes as this would continue to harness the potentials of the state in the direction of the Sustainable Development Goals for the betterment of the citizenry

He said we shall continue to “sustain people oriented programmes of the party, interface with diverse groups, including farmers’ associations, trade unions, artisans, and non-indigene communities, making them critical stakeholders.”

Responding, the seriki of Arewa Community in Obokun local government council area, Alhaji Ayuba Mohammed, appreciated the APC administration led by former Governor Adegboyega Oyetola for regular engagement, providing adequate support, resolution of all communal issues that would have degenerated to crisis through the office of civic engagement.

“We are going to support and vote for APC in the next governorship elections, and Bola Oyebamiji is our candidate.

“They came to our aid when we had different challenges on communal issues in different parts of the state, and it was resolved amicably. We have been in living peace and harmony since then.

“Through the former governor aid, Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, a land was acquired for us, there was regular supplies of palliative to our communities by the government of Oyetola.”

The Area community leader requested for more business friendly environment and appealed to Oyebamiji to sustain the relationship with them.

“We are pledging our unalloyed support for him, and we shall demonstrate it at the poll,” be added.

We will integrate non-indigenes, other interest groups — Oyebamiji

Chelsea boss, Liam Rosenior, has insisted that his team now has a mountain to climb amid the qualification for the UEFA Champions League next season.

Rosenior spoke at his post-match interview after Chelsea’s Premier League 1-0 defeat to Manchester United on Saturday at Stamford Bridge.

The outcome of the match means the Blues sit in 6th position on the Premier League table with 48 points from 33 matches.

Rosenior’s side are behind Liverpool, Aston Villa, Man United, Man City and Arsenal on the log.

Speaking about the chances of his team securing a Champions League spot for next season, Rosenior said after the game against United, “This result gives us a mountain to climb.

“We have to go into Brighton (match on Tuesday) knowing we need to win the game.”

EPL: Liam Rosenior gives verdict on Chelsea’s chances of qualifying for Champions League