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  • Taraba ‘ghost workers’ go spiritual over 10 months unpaid salaries

    Taraba ‘ghost workers’ go spiritual over 10 months unpaid salaries

    A group of workers in Taraba State, controversially labeled as “ghost workers,” have resorted to spiritual means in their struggle to secure payment of 10 months’ unpaid salaries.

    The workers, made up of both Christians and Muslims, gathered on Friday at the Al-Huda Mosque in Jalingo, where they held special prayers seeking divine intervention over their prolonged hardship.

    Led by their convener, Abdurrauf Sani, the group appealed to Agbu Kefas to urgently address their situation.

    Sani said the workers have endured months of financial strain, revealing that six members of the group have died during the period, while another is currently battling hepatitis amid mounting medical and living expenses.

    He expressed frustration that repeated efforts to resolve the issue through official channels had failed, leaving them with no option but to seek divine help.

    “We are not ghost workers; we are staff of the Taraba State Government,” Sani insisted, questioning why they were being treated differently.

    He added that the group plans to continue its spiritual approach by holding prayers at the Gospel House Church on Sunday, emphasizing their demand for full payment of the outstanding salaries.

    “The suffering among our people is becoming unbearable. That is why we are here praying for God’s intervention,” he said.

    In his sermon, Usman Bakari offered prayers for the affected workers and urged the state government to respond swiftly to their concerns. He, however, commended governor Kefas for achievements in security and education, particularly the introduction of free education, and called for continued public support for the administration.

    The development brings to the fore growing concerns over workers’ welfare in the state, as the affected individuals continue to push for recognition and payment of their entitlements.

    Taraba ‘ghost workers’ go spiritual over 10 months unpaid salaries

  • Brigade commander tasks senior officers on professional growth

    Brigade commander tasks senior officers on professional growth

    The Commander, 6 Brigade Nigerian Army (NA)/Sector 3, Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), Brigadier General Chukwuemeka Michael Akaliro, has charged the newly decorated senior officers of the brigade to improve their skill sets, noting that such development is essential in preparing them for higher responsibilities.

    Giving the charge on Friday in Jalingo, Taraba state capital, while decorating the newly promoted officers, he noted that the new ranks come with greater responsibilities and urged the officers to live up to the expectations associated with their positions.

    While commending the Chief of Army Staff, COAS, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, for finding officers from the Brigade worthy of promotion, he also advised those who did not benefit from the recent promotion to remain committed, resilient, and undeterred, so as to benefit from future opportunities.

    The brigade commander who paid glowing tributes to the spouses of the promoted offocers, urged them to continue praying for the officers, so as to enable them effectively carry out their assigned duties and responsibilities.

    Speaking on behalf of the newly promoted officers, Lieutenant Colonel Yahaya Mohammed expressed gratitude to God for preserving their lives to witness this significant milestone in their careers.

    He also applauded the COAS for their elevation and promised to carry out their responsibilities with renewed vigour and professionalism.

    The beneficiaries further extended their appreciation to the Commander for his support, guidance, mentorship, and for sharing his wealth of experience, which they described as instrumental to their professional growth.

    The senior officers decorated included Lieutenant Colonel Yahaya Mohammed, Lieutenant Colonel Ali Nasiru, Lieutenant Colonel Adeola Olaleye Adebayo, Lieutenant Colonel VS Aminu, and Wing Commander Domshak Titus Zakka.

    They were elevated from the ranks of Major and Squadron Leader to Lieutenant Colonel and Wing Commander, respectively.

    Brigade commander tasks senior officers on professional growth

  • Chelsea manager, Liam Rosenior names best defensive midfielder

    Chelsea manager, Liam Rosenior names best defensive midfielder

    Chelsea manager, Liam Rosenior, has singled out Moises Caicedo as the best defensive midfielder in the world.

    Speaking ahead of Sunday’s Premier League showdown against Manchester City at Stamford Bridge, Rosenior didn’t hold back in his praise for the Ecuadorian midfielder.

    He hailed Caicedo for his sharp footballing brain, physical dominance, and technical excellence.

    “For me, he is one of the best defensive midfield players, if not the best defensive midfield player in world football,” Rosenior said at his pre-match press conference.

    “His intelligence, his physicality, his technical quality, how he understands the game. He’ll be huge for us on Sunday (against Manchester City).”

    Chelsea manager, Liam Rosenior names best defensive midfielder

  • JAMB Delists 23 CBT Centres, Warns 25 Others

    JAMB Delists 23 CBT Centres, Warns 25 Others

    JAMB has delisted 23 CBT centres for technical deficiencies detected during the 2026 Mock Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), while 25 others with minor issues received warnings.

    One Lagos-based centre, Ha-Shem Academy in Yaba, was permanently barred from JAMB examinations.

    JAMB’s Public Communication Advisor, Dr Fabian Benjamin, who announced this in a statement on Friday, emphasised the Board’s zero-tolerance stance on substandard examination facilities.

    The delisted centres examination body, centres affected by the delisting span multiple states, including Abia, Anambra, Bayelsa, Delta, Edo, the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Lagos, Ogun, Osun, Oyo, and Plateau.

    Among those delisted are centres in key urban hubs such as Abuja and Lagos, including facilities in Maitama and Lugbe in the FCT, as well as several locations across Ikorodu, Lekki, and Ejigbo in Lagos State.

    The exam body said its action followed a comprehensive post-examination review, describing the mock UTME as both a preparatory exercise for candidates and a critical quality assurance mechanism for its examination infrastructure.

    “The Mock UTME, introduced to enable candidates familiarise themselves with the Computer-Based Test (CBT) environment, also serves as a critical platform for the Board to assess its level of preparedness. It provides an opportunity to identify centres that fall short of the required operational and technical standards,” the Board stated.

    The Board warned many CBT facilities nationwide to upgrade or face sanctions, aiming to maintain exam integrity and transparency.

    “The Board has taken decisive steps, in line with its commitment to maintaining the integrity of its examination processes, to ensure that only centres that are fully prepared and compliant participate in the main UTME exercise,” the statement said.

    JAMB Delists 23 CBT Centres, Warns 25 Others is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

  • ADC Taunts Tinubu, Says US Rejection Reflects Waning International Confidence

    ADC Taunts Tinubu, Says US Rejection Reflects Waning International Confidence

    The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has accused President Bola Tinubu of being distracted by political considerations amid worsening insecurity across the country, warning that a recent move by the United States government signals declining international confidence in Nigeria’s security under his administration.

    The party in a statement issued on Friday and signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, said the United States’ decision to authorize the departure of non-emergency embassy staff and their families from Abuja was “not merely procedural, but a clear and consequential signal of declining trust in Nigeria’s security architecture under the current leadership.”

    The ADC said the development came at a time when Nigeria is grappling with escalating attacks across several regions, including the North-East, North-West, North-Central and the Middle Belt, stressing that the Federal Government’s response has failed to produce meaningful results.

    While mourning the killing of Brigadier General Oseni Omoh Braimah and other soldiers in a recent terrorist attack in Borno State, the party said the tragedy reflects a deeper crisis within the nation’s security framework.

    “The African Democratic Congress (ADC) mourns the tragic loss of Brigadier General Oseni Omoh Braimah and the brave soldiers of the Nigerian Army who were killed in the recent terrorist attack in Borno State. We honour their courage and their service. Behind every fallen soldier is a family permanently altered, a future cut short, and a sacrifice that can never truly be repaid,” the statement read.

    The party, however, said, “But even as we mourn, we must confront a deeper and more troubling reality. As of April 9, 2026, the United States government authorized the departure of non-emergency staff and their families from its embassy in Abuja due to a deteriorating security situation. For a country like the United States to take such a step… it signals a clear loss of confidence in the ability of this administration to guarantee safety and stability,” Abdullahi stated.

    Describing the U.S. action as more than a routine administrative measure, the ADC added, “This is not a routine administrative decision. It is a verdict.”

    The opposition party further accused the President of focusing on political manoeuvring ahead of the 2027 general elections instead of addressing the country’s pressing security challenges.

    “Yet, at a moment that demands urgency, focus, and leadership, the Nigerian Government appears preoccupied with political manoeuvring ahead of the 2027 general elections. The President is so consumed by politics that he is increasingly losing sight of his primary responsibility, which is the protection of the lives of Nigerians,” the statement said.

    Highlighting the scale of insecurity, the ADC noted that attacks, “Across the North-West, North-Central, North-East, and the Middle Belt, attacks have become frequent, coordinated, and devastating. Communities are being overrun, lives are being lost, and citizens are being left to fend for themselves. These are not isolated incidents. They are part of a sustained pattern.”

    The party also alleged, “There are credible reports that, in some cases, warnings were issued ahead of attacks, but no effective preventive action was taken. What follows is now predictable: statements, condolences, and assurances that such incidents will not happen again. But they do.”

    While commending the efforts of security personnel, the party insisted that the, “The bravery of our soldiers is not in doubt… The problem lies not with those on the frontlines, but with the system that is meant to support them,” it stated, adding that “the death of a general in active service is not just a tragedy. It is a signal of deeper structural and leadership failures that must be urgently addressed.”

    The ADC maintained that, as Commander-in-Chief, President Tinubu bears ultimate responsibility for the country’s security outcomes.

    “This moment demands leadership that is focused, decisive, and accountable. But instead, we are witnessing a President who is so preoccupied with politics that he has reduced his role as Commander-in-Chief to merely issuing condolences and condemnations,” the party said.

    Calling for urgent action, “The ADC therefore calls on the President to refocus his administration on the primary responsibility of protecting lives and securing the country. This requires a clear reset of strategy, improved coordination, and measurable outcomes that Nigerians can see and trust.”

    It added, “Certainly, the current approach, whatever it is, is not delivering results. The President should have the humility to admit that he has failed, and every single life lost under his watch is evidence of this tragic failure.”

    The ADC warned that unless there is a clear shift in approach, both Nigerians and the international community will continue to question the government’s commitment to its core responsibility.

    “This is not about politics. It is about responsibility… Until there is a clear break from the current pattern, both Nigerians and the international community will continue to question the willingness of this government to meet its most basic obligation,” it said.

    ADC Taunts Tinubu, Says US Rejection Reflects Waning International Confidence is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

  • Kwara police intensify crackdown on banditry, hold high-level security meeting in Ilorin

    Kwara police intensify crackdown on banditry, hold high-level security meeting in Ilorin

    The Kwara State Police Command has stepped up operations across the state to tackle banditry and other violent crimes, while also convening a high level security meeting with other agencies to strengthen coordination.

    The development was disclosed in a statement shared on April 9 2026, on the official page of the Command.

    According to the statement, the renewed operations are part of intelligence-led strategies aimed at disrupting criminal networks and preventing security threats across the three senatorial districts.

    The Command said suspected criminal hideouts and supply routes have been identified, with tactical teams deployed to deny criminal elements freedom of movement, especially in vulnerable areas and along state borders.

    It added that stop-and-search operations, covert surveillance, and enhanced patrols are ongoing to curb the influx of bandits from neighbouring states.

    “The Command has intensified intelligence-led and proactive security operations across the State to prevent and combat banditry and other violent crimes,” the statement read.

    The police further noted that collaboration with other security agencies, including local vigilante groups and hunters, has been strengthened through joint operations and intelligence sharing.

    In a related development, the Commissioner of Police Ojo Adekimi, also held a strategic security meeting in Ilorin with heads of security agencies in the state.

    The meeting, held at the Command Headquarters focused on improving inter-agency coordination and reinforcing ongoing operations in line with directives from the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu.

    Security chiefs at the meeting reaffirmed their commitment to tackling criminal activities and maintaining peace across the state.

    “The meeting focused on strengthening inter-agency coordination and reinforcing ongoing operations to safeguard lives and property,” the statement added.

    The police reassured residents of the Command’s commitment to ensuring safety, urging members of the public to remain vigilant and provide useful information to security agencies.

    Kwara police intensify crackdown on banditry, hold high-level security meeting in Ilorin

  • EFCC drags suspect to court over alleged N4.3m rice deal fraud in Maiduguri

    EFCC drags suspect to court over alleged N4.3m rice deal fraud in Maiduguri

    The Maiduguri Zonal Directorate of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), on Thursday, arraigned one Abdullahi Aminu before Justice Aisha Kumaliya of the Borno State High Court sitting in Maiduguri over an alleged fraud involving N4.3 million.

    A statement issued by EFCC said the defendant was brought before the court on a one-count charge of criminal misappropriation involving the sum of N4,305,000.00 (Four Million, Three Hundred and Five Thousand Naira).

    The charge reads: “That you, Abdullahi Aminu sometimes in 2025 at Maiduguri, Borno State, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court dishonestly convert to your own use the aggregate sum of N4,305,000.00 (Four Million, Three Hundred and Five Thousand Naira), monies belonging to Jibrin Abdulrahman purportedly as payment for the supply of rice, thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 296 and punishable under Section 297 of the Borno State Penal Code Law and Other Matters Connected Therewith Law, 2023.”

    The defendant, however, pleaded “not guilty” to the charge when it was read to him.

    Following his plea, prosecution counsel A.D. Abdulmalik asked the court for a trial date and also urged that the defendant be remanded in a correctional facility.

    Justice Kumaliya thereafter adjourned the case until April 21, 2026, for commencement of trial and ordered that the defendant be remanded at the Maiduguri Maximum Correctional facility.

    According to EFCC, the suspect was arrested after he allegedly diverted the sum of N4,305,000.00 meant for the supply of rice for personal use.

    EFCC drags suspect to court over alleged N4.3m rice deal fraud in Maiduguri

  • Trump To Iran: ‘You Have No Cards Left — Just Negotiate’

    Trump To Iran: ‘You Have No Cards Left — Just Negotiate’

    President Donald J. Trump has escalated his rhetorical pressure on Iran, declaring that the Islamic Republic has virtually no leverage left in the ongoing conflict other than temporary disruption of global oil flows through international waterways.

    In a fresh Truth Social post circulating widely on Thursday, Trump wrote: “The Iranians don’t seem to realize they have no cards, other than a short term extortion of the World by using International Waterways. The only reason they are alive today is to negotiate!”

    The statement appears to reference Iran’s closure or threats to the Strait of Hormuz, the narrow chokepoint through which a significant portion of the world’s oil passes.

    The waterway has been a central flashpoint amid recent U.S.-Iran tensions, fragile ceasefire talks, and demands for its immediate reopening to international shipping.

    This latest comment comes amid a series of strong messages from the president in recent days. Earlier posts included blunt deadlines for Iran to reopen the strait, with warnings of severe consequences for non-compliance.

    A two-week ceasefire was announced earlier this week following intense diplomatic efforts, though Trump has continued to stress that the U.S. holds the upper hand.

    Analysts see the “no cards” framing as classic Trump negotiating style, projecting maximum U.S. strength while signaling that dialogue remains the path forward for Tehran.

    The post underscores Trump’s view that Iran’s actions amount to temporary economic blackmail rather than sustainable power.

    The statement has drawn attention online and in media, with some viewing it as a de-escalatory nudge toward talks even as military posturing continues in the region.

    Iran has not yet issued an official response to today’s specific remark.

    This development occurs against the backdrop of broader U.S. efforts to secure energy routes and prevent any resurgence of Iranian nuclear ambitions or regional disruption.

    Trump To Iran: ‘You Have No Cards Left — Just Negotiate’ is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

  • Nigerian, other foreign students can now work with study permit in Canada

    Nigerian, other foreign students can now work with study permit in Canada

    Nigerian and other international students in Canada will no longer need a separate co-op work permit for internships, co-ops, and practicums under a new rule that took effect on April 1, 2026.

    Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) said a valid study permit is now enough for work placements that are part of a student’s course, as long as they make up 50% or less of the program. Secondary school students still need a co-op work permit.

    Students who already applied for a co-op work permit can withdraw their applications, and IRCC may also cancel some of them since the permit is no longer required.

    The change is the first step in wider immigration reforms being reviewed by the government. Other proposals include allowing students and graduates to work while waiting for study permit extensions or Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) decisions, and removing study permit rules for some foreign apprentices. These ideas are still under consultation.

    IRCC said the goal is to reduce paperwork and make the system easier by removing the need for multiple permits for one study program. It also hopes to reduce delays and confusion when students move between study and work status.

    If fully approved, the reforms could make it easier for international students to work during and after their studies, and reduce gaps when permits expire. However, no timeline has been set for the remaining changes.

    The government has already introduced other updates in its immigration plan, including fee increases for permanent residence, citizenship, and other services.

    At the same time, Canada is seeing fewer international students and foreign workers. New arrivals dropped sharply in 2026 compared to the previous year, continuing a broader downward trend.

    The federal government says it plans to further reduce temporary migration levels in the coming years as part of its immigration strategy.

    Vanguard News

    The post Nigerian, other foreign students can now work with study permit in Canada appeared first on Vanguard News.

  • US evacuation signals fading confidence in Nigeria — Peter Obi

    US evacuation signals fading confidence in Nigeria — Peter Obi

    By Luminous Jannamike

    ABUJA — Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has warned that the recent directive by the United States to evacuate its embassy staff from Nigeria over rising insecurity signals fading international confidence in the country’s security system and leadership.

    According to him, the move throws Nigeria’s worsening security crisis into sharp global focus, raising fresh concerns about its impact on investor confidence, diplomatic relations, and an already fragile economy.

    In a statement on Friday, Obi said the situation should be treated as a national emergency, stressing that the consequences go beyond security to Nigeria’s standing in the eyes of the world.

    “The recent directive by the United States to evacuate its embassy staff from Nigeria over rising insecurity is deeply troubling and ought to be treated as a national emergency, particularly for a country already struggling to attract investment.

    “Nigeria currently ranks fourth on the Global Terrorism Index, yet the security situation continues to deteriorate. Lives are being lost, and communities remain under constant threat.

    “There is a glaring absence of effective governance; instead, we are witnessing actions that undermine democratic processes, as though politics has taken precedence over the safety and welfare of citizens.

    “The U.S. directive is a stark signal of declining confidence in our national security architecture.

    “More troubling still are reports of the loss of yet another Army Brigadier General to terrorists in Borno earlier today.

    “A nation where citizens cannot live, work, worship, or travel safely cannot make progress or inspire investor confidence.

    “The primary responsibility of any government is the protection of lives and property. In this regard, we as leaders have consistently fallen short. This failure continues to place immense strain on our armed forces, who bear the burden and make the ultimate sacrifices.

    “Regrettably, as the nation deteriorates, we as leaders appear preoccupied, like Nero, with political pursuits, forgetting that without security, there is no nation to govern and no future to contest,” Obi said.

    The post US evacuation signals fading confidence in Nigeria — Peter Obi appeared first on Vanguard News.