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The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has expressed support for the Nigerian Bar Association’s stance, affirming that courts lack jurisdiction over internal party disputes.

The party, in a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi on Saturday in Abuja, described NBA’s warning against judicial abuse as a validation of its position on the court’s legality.

Abdullahi stated that NBA’s intervention highlighted the ongoing attempts to undermine the David Mark-led leadership through judicial processes, insisting that they were inconsistent with existing electoral laws.

He maintained that the current dispute was not legitimate litigation but a deliberate strategy aimed at exploiting judicial mechanisms for political advantage and manipulation purposes.

The party’s spokesperson described such actions as abuse of court process, involving forum shopping and what it termed ‘mala fide litigation’ intended to destabilise the party’s lawful leadership structure.

He emphasised that any judicial order obtained contrary to statutory provisions remained invalid and cannot form a legitimate basis for actions affecting party leadership.

Abdullahi expressed concern that certain actors had continued to involve courts in prohibited matters, creating confusion and attempting to project uncertainty around the party’s leadership structure.

He commended NBA for reaffirming the rule of law and warning legal practitioners against actions that could undermine judicial integrity and democratic principles.

While referencing NBA’s call for disciplinary measures against any erring legal practitioner, he said that such a call underscored the seriousness of the ongoing violations.

Abdullahi called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to remain neutral and impartial and avoid actions that could legitimise processes inconsistent with the Electoral Act.

He stated that the dispute extended beyond the party’s internal affairs, framing it as a broader issue concerning the protection of democratic integrity in Nigeria.

Abdullahi, however, reaffirmed ADC’s commitment to pursuing lawful measures to defend its mandate and safeguard democratic principles. (NAN)(

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The Abia State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has distanced itself from remarks made by Mr Erondu Uchenna Jnr, insisting he no longer has the authority to speak on behalf of the party.

In an official statement issued on April 11, 2026, and signed by the State Chairman, Abraham Amah, the party described Erondu’s comments as “misleading and unacceptable.”

Erondu, who currently represents Obingwa West Constituency in the Abia State House of Assembly, was elected on the platform of the PDP but has since defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

He had reportedly claimed that the PDP was endorsing an APC gubernatorial candidate ahead of the 2027 elections.
Reacting, the PDP said such a claim was entirely false and lacked any form of authorization from the party.

“For the avoidance of doubt, he cannot and does not speak for Abia PDP,” the statement read. “Having chosen to leave the party, he has forfeited any authority, whether moral or political, to represent or interpret the position of the PDP.”

The party further stressed that it has not taken any decision to support a candidate outside its platform, describing the alleged endorsement as “profoundly careless” and contrary to its identity as a structured political organization.

The PDP urged the public to disregard Erondu’s statement, maintaining that it remains united and committed to its principles as political activities gradually build toward the 2027 general elections.

The statement reads in parts, “The attention of the Abia State Chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party has been drawn to a misleading and unacceptable statement credited to Elder Uchenna Erondu Uchenna Jnr, who currently represents Obingwa West Constituency in the Abia State House of Assembly. He was elected on the platform of our party, the PDP, but has recently defected to the All Progressives Congress.

“For the avoidance of doubt, we state categorically that he cannot and does not speak for Abia PDP. Having chosen to leave the party, he has forfeited any authority, whether moral or political, to represent or interpret the position of the PDP. At best, he now speaks for himself, and possibly for his new party, if so authorized.

“His claim that the PDP is endorsing an APC gubernatorial candidate in Abia State is not only false, but profoundly careless. It is a statement that raises serious concern as to the basis and intent behind such an assertion. The PDP, as a disciplined and structured political party, has taken no such position and will not engage in actions that undermine its own identity and mandate.

“We therefore urge the public to disregard this statement in its entirety, as it is misleading, unauthorized, and does not reflect the position of the Abia PDP.

The party remains united, focused, and committed to its principles and the democratic aspirations of the people of Abia State”.

2027: Abia PDP Disowns Lawmaker Over Alleged APC Guber Endorsement is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

With hearts full of pride and gratitude, the Ojugbana family celebrates our noble patriarch, Ogbuefi Chief F.E. Ojugbana, on the auspicious occasion of his 85th birthday.

Ogbuefi—a high-ranking and revered title, reserved for men of honour, strength of character, and distinction—befits the remarkable life you have lived and the legacy you continue to uphold. You stand as a man of vision, a custodian of values, and a pillar whose influence has shaped lives and institutions alike.

As Founder and Chairman of the Madec Association, you have made great and enduring contributions to both public and private sector institutions in Nigeria. Through your foresight, discipline, and unwavering commitment to excellence, you have helped build structures that endure and systems that continue to serve society.

Like the iroko tree that stands tall and unshaken, you have remained steadfast through the seasons—offering wisdom, strength, and guidance to many. Your life is a reflection of integrity, generosity, and a deep commitment to the upliftment of others.

At 85, we celebrate not merely the years, but the depth of impact—a legacy firmly rooted in service, honour, and humanity. Your journey continues to inspire generations present and those yet to come.

As you mark this remarkable milestone, we pray for continued good health, peace, and fulfilment. May your days be long, your strength renewed, and your legacy ever flourishing.

Happy 85th Birthday, Ogbuefi Chief F.E. Ojugbana!

Ezigbo nna anyi, ogologo ndu na ezi ahuike.

With profound respect and warmest wishes,
The Ojugbana Family

The post Ojugbana Family Pays Tribute to Noble Patriarch, Ogbuefi Chief F.E. Ojugbana, at 85 appeared first on Vanguard News.

AFRICAN Democratic Congress (ADC) stakeholders, particularly presidential aspirants, have been urged to harmonise ambition to bet on former Transport Minister, Rotimi Amaechi, to rescue Nigeria from ‘inept’ President Bola Tinubu led government.

ADC Leader in Ontario, Canada, Sir Joe Korka-Waadah, said the appeal was informed by the realisation that the ADC stands as the most formidable opposition platform to deliver the change the people desire.

Korka-Waadah, Executive Director, Compassionate Heart Foundation, Ontario, Canada, told stakeholders, “We have the chance to make it right in 2027. 

“ADC is apparently the only platform that will deliver the change we need to put Nigeria in the right trajectory, to clear the helplessness, hunger, insecurity that have bedeviled Nigeria under this inept and clueless Tinubu’s regime. 

“If we don’t get it right, indications are that we may not have the country called Nigeria anymore. On that note, we need not gamble on the choice of who to lead the charge against the APC. 

“Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi is the man for this moment based on anticidents, of eight years performance as Speaker, Rivers State House of Assembly, eight propsperous years as governor and eight years as minister. 

“His achievements are there for all to see. We need someone that will hit the ground running from day one. 

ADC electorates, the ball is in your court. 

“Age on his side, he is well educated, has all it takes to bring about the transformation we so desire. 

He is the only candidate loved across the board, north, south, east and west.”

The post 2027: Amaechi best positioned to rescue Nigerians from Tinubu’s govt – Korka-Waadah appeared first on Vanguard News.

More than 17 kidnapped victims from Kauru Local Government Area of Kaduna State remain in captivity, despite over N300 million reportedly paid as ransom.

A community leader from Kauru Local Government Area, Reverend Musa Hassan Shadari, speaking with journalists in Kaduna on Saturday, decried the rate of kidnapping for ransom in the area.

Shadari, who raised the alarm over escalating bandit attacks in the community, said “more than 50 people have been killed and over 1,000 abducted within a three-month period.”

He stated that the incidents had left dozens of families devastated and communities displaced, adding that about N300 million had been paid as ransom to secure the release of many victims.
The funds, he noted, were sourced from relatives, the sale of food reserves, and farmlands.

Shadari, who led a group of villagers on a protest to the Kaduna metropolis, said no fewer than 39 villages across the Kauru-West axis had been affected by the wave of killings and kidnappings.

He added that the affected communities comprised people of different religious and ethnic backgrounds, including Muslims, Christians, Hausa, and Fulani.

He appealed to the state government, led by Governor Uba Sani, to deploy more security personnel to the area, alleging that existing responses had been inadequate.

“We are facing serious challenges from kidnappers who are driving us out of our homes and communities,” Shadari said.

He further alleged that security operatives often responded briefly to distress calls but failed to maintain a sustained presence during attacks.

He added that the delay in speaking out was due to a lack of awareness on how to seek help, until concerned individuals encouraged them to engage the media.

Over 17 Kaduna kidnap victims held after N300m ransom

By Emmanuel Okogba

The wave of Nollywood actors venturing into politics continues to grow, with popular actor Azubuike Michael, better known as Zubby Michael, becoming the latest to join the African Democratic Congress, ADC.

Zubby Michael officially registered as a member of the ADC on Saturday in his hometown of Ozubulu, Anambra State. He confirmed the move by sharing a video on Instagram showing his registration and new party membership card handed to him by the ward chairman.

“I dey my village, enough of the talking online, I don involve,” he wrote in the post.

While the host in the background hinted at possible political ambition, including a potential bid for a House of Representatives seat, the actor is yet to confirm any plans to contest for elective office.

Zubby Michael’s decision adds to a growing list of Nollywood stars who have ventured into active politics in recent years. 

As the 2027 general elections approach, more entertainment personalities are expected to formally declare their political affiliations or ambitions.

Zubby Michael’s registration with the ADC comes at a time when the party is witnessing a significant surge in new memberships across the country.

The ADC is projected to be the major opposition party heading into the 2027 general elections.

The post Nollywood actor Zubby Michael joins ADC, picks membership card appeared first on Vanguard News.

Nigerian entrepreneur Mr Christian Ukah has officially launched CVG FARMCITY, a cutting-edge 200-acre agricultural project in Issele-Uku, Delta State.

This ambitious venture focuses on large-scale palm oil production and land banking, offering investors a unique opportunity for land ownership alongside managed farming services.

The project boasts an impressive 30,000-50,000 palm trees, positioning itself as a major player in Nigeria’s agricultural sector.

According to Christian Ukah, CEO of CVG, CVG FARMCITY prioritizes sustainability and long-term return on investment (ROI).

“We’re thrilled to unveil this innovative project, which will not only transform Delta State’s agribusiness landscape but also contribute significantly to Nigeria’s economic growth and food security,” he said.

The launch event was attended by Delta State government officials, who praised the initiative for its potential to create jobs, stimulate local economy, and enhance agricultural development.

Delta State Governor Special Adviser Mr Emmanuel Osazuwa noted the government’s commitment to creating a conducive environment for businesses to thrive.

“This project aligns perfectly with our Agricultural Transformation Agenda, promoting agricultural development, diversifying our economy, and improving the quality of life for our citizens,” Osazuwa said.

“We encourage local farmers and youth to engage with CVG FARMCITY’s opportunities and take advantage of the support services offered.”

Governor Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori’s representative also acknowledged the contributions of Christian Ukah and the team at CVG Development Limited.

“Your vision and dedication to this project demonstrate Delta State’s potential as a hub for agribusiness.

We’re committed to partnering with investors who share our vision for a prosperous and sustainable future.”

The Senior Special Assistant on Media to the Delta State Governor Ossai Ovie Success also commended the project, stating, “CVG FARMCITY will become a model for agricultural development in Nigeria, driving innovation and growth in the sector.”

The project is expected to have a significant impact on the local community, with opportunities for employment, economic growth, and improved food security.

As CVG FARMCITY moves forward, officials are optimistic about its potential to become a model for agricultural development in Nigeria.

The post CVG launches multi-million dollar farm city in Delta appeared first on Vanguard News.

Pope Leo lashed out against warmongers on Saturday while calling on billions of people around the globe to embrace peace and “believe once again in love, moderation and good politics”.

In one of his most passionate entreaties yet to end the raging conflict in the Middle East, the American pope said faith was needed “in order to face this dramatic hour in history together”.

“Enough of the idolatry of self and money! Enough of the display of power! Enough of war! True strength is shown in serving life,” Pope Leo implored in an address during a prayer vigil for peace at St Peter’s Basilica.

Uttered in measured tones, as is customary for the soft-spoken head of the world’s 1.4 billion Catholics, the comments by the 70-year-old Leo nevertheless marked some of the most pointed criticism yet of the wave of conflicts inflaming the globe.

“Dear brothers and sisters, there are certainly binding responsibilities that fall to the leaders of nations. To them we cry out: Stop! It is time for peace! Sit at the table of dialogue and mediation, not at the table where rearmament is planned and deadly actions are decided!”

As he has done in the past, the Chicago native did not cite politicians by name, and did not call out specific countries.

– ‘Delusion of omnipotence’ –

Responsibility also fell to the “immense multitude” that rejects war, Leo said, urging them to build a “Kingdom of peace… in our homes, schools, neighbourhoods, and civil and religious communities.”

“A Kingdom that counters polemics and resignation through friendship and a culture of encounter. Let us believe once again in love, moderation and good politics.”

The pope described the Kingdom of God as a “bulwark against that delusion of omnipotence that surrounds us and is becoming increasingly unpredictable and aggressive.”

It also was a place with “no sword, no drone, no vengeance, no trivialisation of evil, no unjust profit, but only dignity, understanding and forgiveness.”

Leo painted a grim picture of the current state of the world, “where there never seem to be enough graves, for people continue to crucify one another and eliminate life, with no regard to justice and mercy.”

Pope Leo, who was elected pontiff last May following the death of his predecessor Francis, is moderate and known as a bridge-builder. But he has been increasingly denouncing the conflicts dividing the world, most recently on Friday when he railed against the “senseless and inhuman violence” spreading across the Holy Land.

Leo has repeatedly urged de-escalation in the current US-Israeli war on Iran and the need for a diplomatic solution.

The post In fiery speech, Pope Leo says ‘Enough to war!’ appeared first on Vanguard News.

Bendel Insurance ended their three-game winless streak in the Nigeria Premier Football League, NPFL, courtesy of hard-earned 1-0 victory over Abia Warriors in Benin City on Saturday.

Kennedy Boboye’s side dominated proceedings in the first half but failed to find a way past Abia Warriors’ resolute defence.

The breakthrough came in the second half, when Chinedu Nwosu fired home the winning goal two minutes after the hour mark.

The win boosted the Benin Arsenals’ chances of picking a continental ticket at the end of the season.

Insurance remain in seventh position on the table with 49 points.

Abia Warriors maintained fourth position on the log despite the defeat.

NPFL: Bendel Insurance pipe Abia Warriors to end barren streak

By Ikechukwu Nnochiri

The Federal Government on Saturday released a list of 48 individuals and groups it said were involved in financing terrorist activities in the country.

The list, published by the Nigeria Sanctions Committee (NIGSAC), came barely 24 hours after the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice concluded the ninth phase of the mass trial of over 500 persons linked to the Boko Haram terrorist sect.

The four-day trial sessions were conducted by 10 judges of the Federal High Court in Abuja, where a total of 386 convictions were secured by the FG.

While the AGF, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, led the FG’s legal team alongside the Director of Public Prosecutions of the Federation (DPPF), Mr. Rotimi Oyedepo, SAN, most of the convicts were represented by a team of lawyers from the National Legal Aid Council of Nigeria (NLACON).

Aside from imposing various sentences that included life imprisonment, the courts issued consequential orders recommending that the convicts undergo rehabilitation and deradicalisation programmes.

The AGF expressed satisfaction with the outcome of the cases, insisting that the punishments meted out to the defendants were intended to send a clear signal to those involved in terrorism and terrorism financing.

“There is no space for them here in Nigeria. We cannot stop them from going elsewhere, but as far as Nigeria is concerned, we cannot accommodate them.

“We have been able to bring justice to them—or rather, bring them to justice. This is the clear signal we are sending,” he stated.

A few hours after the declaration, the NIGSAC made public the list of those it said were complicit in sponsoring terrorism across the federation.

Among the names on the list were three groups—Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Ansaru, and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP)—which had already been proscribed as terrorist organisations.

Equally on the list is the self-styled Prime Minister of Biafra, Mr. Simon Ekpa, who was convicted in September 2025 by the Päijät-Häme District Court in Finland.

Ekpa was found guilty of terrorism-related charges and sentenced to six years in prison by the Finnish court.

The court ruled that Ekpa had, between August 2021 and November 2024, supplied weapons, explosives, and ammunition to armed separatist groups in the southeastern part of the country, as well as exploited his online influence to promote violence.

Another notable name on the list is the alleged Abuja-Kaduna train kidnapping negotiator, Mr. Tukur Mamu, who is billed to open his defence to a 10-count terrorism charge filed by the FG on April 23.

Trial Justice Mohammed Umar of the Federal High Court in Abuja okayed the matter for defence after the FG closed its case with evidence from six witnesses.

Mamu was arraigned before the court on March 21, 2023, for allegedly aiding terrorist operations in the country.

The Kaduna-based Islamic scholar was further accused of collecting various sums of money in different currencies from families of victims of the train attack on behalf of the Boko Haram terrorist sect.

The FG told the court that investigations revealed the defendant collected an aggregate sum of $420,000 from families of the victims, as well as N21 million from another set of families of the train attack victims.

It further alleged that Mamu concealed funds he earned from services rendered to the terrorist organisation in his residence in Kaduna State.

The prosecution added that the defendant had, sometime in 2022 in Kaduna State, received ransom payments in the sum of N500,000 on behalf of the Boko Haram terrorist group from families of the train attack hostages.

More so, the prosecution stated that the defendant exchanged voice note communications with one Baba Adamu, identified as spokesperson of Boko Haram, in relation to acts of terrorism.

It alleged that the defendant acted in breach of the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022.

Mamu was arrested on September 6, 2022, at Cairo Airport, Egypt, while on his way to Saudi Arabia for Lesser Hajj with his family members.

He was subsequently brought back to the country and immediately taken into custody by the DSS, which obtained a detention order against him.

In an affidavit deposed to by one of its operatives, Hamza Pandogari, the DSS told the court that Mamu, publisher of Desert Herald, used the cover of journalism to perpetrate his deeds.

It stated that the detained publisher was on his way to attend a clandestine meeting with top terrorist commanders when he was intercepted in Egypt through the help of the International Police (Interpol).

It alleged that preliminary investigations revealed Mamu’s involvement in terrorism financing.

Meanwhile, other alleged terrorism financiers on the list published by the FG on Saturday are: Abdulsamat Ohida; Mohammed Sani; Abdurrahaman Abdurrahaman; Fatima Ishaq; Yusuf Ghazali; Muhammad Sani; Abubakar Muhammad; Sallamudeen Hassan; Adamu Ishak; Hassana Isah; Abdulkareem Musa; Umar Abdullahi; and Abdurrahaman Ado.

Others include: Bashir Yusuf; Ibrahim Alhassan; Muhammad Isah; Salihu Adamu; Surajo Mohammad; Fannami Bukar; Muhammed Musa; Sahabi Ismail; Mohammed Buba; Jama’atu Wal-Jihad; Yan Group; Yan Group NLBDG; Adamu Hassan; Hassan Mohammed; Usman Abubakar; Kubara Salawu; and Rabiu Suleiman.

As well as: Godstime Iyare; Francis Mmadubuchi; John Onwumere; Chikwuka Eze; Edwin Chukwuedo; Chiwendu Owoh; Ginika Orji; Awo Uchechukwu; Mercy Ali; Ohagwu Juliana; Eze Okpoto; Nwaobi Chimezie; and Ogumu Kewe.

There are indications that the FG would initiate extradition proceedings to ensure the repatriation of some of them currently residing outside the country.

The post FG names 48 terrorism financiers; Ansaru, ISWAP, IPOB, Mamu, Ekpa make list appeared first on Vanguard News.