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The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has condemned what it described as increasing judicial interference in the internal affairs of political parties, warning that such actions threaten Nigeria’s constitutional democracy as the country moves toward the 2027 general elections.

The NBA in a statement signed by its President, Mazi Afam Osigwe (SAN) on Friday expressed concern over what it called the “disturbing involvement by lawyers and courts” in intra-party disputes despite clear restrictions under the Electoral Act 2026.

The NBA specifically faulted recent court decisions involving disputes within the African Democratic Congress (ADC), describing them as part of a wider trend of “forum shopping” and abuse of judicial processes aimed at securing political advantage.

Citing Section 83 of the Electoral Act 2026, the NBA reiterated that Nigerian courts lack jurisdiction over matters concerning the internal affairs of political parties. The association further noted that the law also prohibits courts from granting interim or interlocutory injunctions in such cases, insisting that where such matters are filed, courts are expected to suspend rulings until final judgment and give accelerated hearing.

Despite these provisions, the NBA lamented that litigants continue to file suits in violation of the law while some courts have proceeded to grant interim orders, a development it described as dangerous for democratic stability.

According to the association, “this emerging trend of subverting the clear letters of the Electoral Act and dragging courts into the internal affairs of political parties through disingenuous litigation, forum shopping, and malafide applications designed to secure undemocratic political advantage, bodes no good for our democracy.”

The NBA warned that such practices risk turning the judiciary into a platform for political manipulation and electoral interference, stressing that the provisions of the Electoral Act were intended to prevent abuse of court processes and discourage politically motivated litigation.

The association also cautioned members of the legal profession, reminding them that they are “Ministers in the Temple of Justice and not political agents seeking judicial endorsement of partisan objectives.”

It warned that any lawyer found to be engaging in actions designed to draw courts into intra-party disputes risks disciplinary action before the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee (LPDC).

“The filing of actions intended to draw courts into internal political party disputes, particularly where jurisdiction is expressly excluded, constitutes an abuse of court process and a violation of professional responsibility,” the NBA stated.

It further warned: “The NBA will take firm steps to deter such conduct. Lawyers who deliberately file actions aimed at procuring judicial interference in intra-party affairs, or who seek ex parte or interlocutory orders in clear violation of statutory provisions, risk facing disciplinary proceedings.”

On the judiciary, the association urged courts to exercise restraint and strictly adhere to the law, stressing that judges must avoid being drawn into political controversies.

“The Nigerian judiciary must stay vigilant and resist being drawn into political theatrics,” it said. “Courts should firmly decline invitations, no matter how artfully crafted, to intervene in matters the law explicitly bars them from.”

The NBA also called on the National Judicial Council (NJC) to sanction judges who assume jurisdiction in violation of statutory provisions or issue orders in intra-party disputes contrary to the law. It warned that it would not hesitate to bring such matters to the attention of the NJC.

In addition, the association urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to maintain strict neutrality and avoid any perception of political bias or interference in party politics.

“The Commission must not, under any circumstances, be perceived as a participant in political engineering or as an institution whose regulatory authority is deployed in a manner that weakens political pluralism,” the statement said.

The NBA added that the credibility of INEC under its current leadership would be closely watched, stressing the importance of maintaining public confidence in the electoral process ahead of 2027.

Reaffirming its commitment to protecting Nigeria’s democracy, the association said it would deploy all lawful mechanisms, including disciplinary action, engagement, advisory opinions, and strategic litigation, to ensure the sanctity of the judicial process.

“Lawyers must remain officers of the court, not architects of procedural manipulation. Nigeria’s democracy must not be weakened by legal maneuvering, institutional capture, or the misuse of judicial authority,” it warned.

The statement added that the courts must remain arbiters of justice while electoral institutions must function strictly within constitutional limits as neutral referees in the democratic process.

NBA Faults Court Rulings On ADC, Decries ‘Forum Shopping’ Against Opposition is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

Suspected gunmen have killed a woman and her daughter at the poultry farm in Igushi community, near Akure, the Ondo State capital.

The incident, which occurred on Thursday, also led to the abduction of three other workers at the farm.

According to community sources, the assailants reportedly gained access to the premises by scaling the fence before attempting to kidnap workers. In the process, they shot and killed the poultry farm owner and her daughter.

A resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said about five armed men carried out the attack and subsequently took three individuals away.

“The gunmen came through the fence. They were about five and took three people away. Later, we found the woman who owns the poultry and her daughter dead,” the source said.

He added that security operatives, including the police and Amotekun Corps, were immediately alerted and responded to the scene. Two of the abducted victims were later rescued during a coordinated operation.

Confirming the incident, the Ondo State Police Command described the attack as “heinous” and condemned the killings.

Police Public Relations Officer, Abayomi Jimoh, said efforts were ongoing to apprehend those responsible.

“The Ondo State Police Command strongly condemns the violent incident at Igushin via Ala, Akure, which led to the tragic loss of two innocent lives. While two victims were successfully rescued, the Command expresses deep sorrow over the unfortunate deaths recorded,” he said.

Jimoh assured residents that security measures had been reinforced to protect lives and property, adding that perpetrators of the crime would be brought to justice.

He also urged members of the public to remain vigilant and support security agencies with credible information.

The attack is the latest in a series of violent incidents in parts of Ondo State, particularly around Akure and nearby communities, where residents have repeatedly called for increased security presence in rural areas.

Two Killed, Three Abducted As Gunmen Strike Ondo Farm is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

A female aspirant for the AMAC/Bwari Federal Constituency in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Sarah Ivie Adidi, has assured women in the FCT that she will do everything possible to ensure their voices are heard at the National Assembly.

She made this statement during an interactive meeting with women leaders and supporters across the constituency on Thursday in Abuja.

She stressed that her ambition is rooted in service, not personal gain, noting that women leaders tend to prioritize family and community welfare.

“I am running because Nigerian women have been neglected for too long,” she said. “We face numerous challenges daily, yet we are underrepresented in government. This is why our needs are not adequately addressed. I want to ensure that every woman in the FCT is heard.”

“When women lead, we carry everyone along. I am not going there for myself, but for the many women and families who need support and representation,” she added.

Ivie urged the women to come together and form a formidable alliance that would project a positive image of women, uphold honor, and showcase their leadership potential.

The women’s group, while expressing support for the aspirant, emphasized the urgent need for greater inclusion of women in governance at all levels.

AMAC women’s leader who spoke on behalf of the group, Lucy Nwosu, commended the aspirant for her courage in running for the exalted office. She also assured her of their continued support while urging her to remain accessible and accountable.

However, the leaders expressed concerns over past experiences in which elected representatives allegedly distanced themselves from their supporters after securing office.

“We have seen situations where women we supported abandoned us after gaining office. We appeal to you to be different and stay connected to the people,” the women’s leader said.

She emphasized the importance of unity, noting that internal divisions among women often weaken their political influence.

The leader further noted that young women are often underestimated despite their potential. “Many people question what young women can offer, but they fail to recognize their innovation, creativity, and talent. We are proud that someone like you has stepped forward,” she said

FCT Female Rep Aspirant Rallies Women, Pledges People-Centered Representation is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

The Catholic Diocese of Kontagora has raised a fresh alarm over escalating violence in Kebbi State, revealing that 24 people were killed in a deadly Easter Sunday attack on Debe village in Shanga Local Government Area.

The attack was the latest in a series of violent incidents in the border communities between Kebbi and Niger states.

Days earlier, suspected bandits had launched a coordinated night assault on multiple villages in the same Shanga Local Government Area, including Gebe, Kawara, and Kalkami, razing homes and forcing residents to flee.

Security sources said the attackers were believed to have emerged from hideouts in the Wawa Forest in Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State.

The Kebbi State Police Command confirmed that tactical units, the military, marine police and local vigilantes were deployed to restore order.

According to a statement issued in Yauri, Kebbi State on Thursday, the Diocese said suspected terrorists stormed the community around 5 pm on April 5, unleashing hours of violence that left dozens dead and properties in ruins.

“We want Nigeria and the international community to know what transpired in Debe,” the Diocese said. “The confirmed number of fatalities is 24, contrary to earlier police reports of four.”

The victims, according to the Church, cut across religious lines Christians, Muslims, and traditional worshippers underscoring what it described as a “tragedy against humanity, not a particular faith.”

The attackers reportedly set ablaze St. Mary’s Catholic Church, a mosque, is a mosque, residential homes and shops, while targeting mostly men and youth.

“The terrorists invaded the village and killed 24 people. Properties were destroyed, including a church and a mosque. This is a devastating blow to the entire community,” the statement added.

The violence spilt into neighbouring communities, with reports of widespread destruction in Binuwa and Kalkame. Markets and even the emir’s residence were not spared.

In the aftermath, hundreds of residents fled their homes, seeking safety. The Diocese disclosed that 491 internally displaced persons are currently taking refuge at St. Dominic Parish in Yauri.

“These displaced persons are in urgent need of food, clean water, medical care and adequate shelter,” it said, warning that existing support efforts are overstretched.

While providing emergency assistance, the Church called for urgent intervention from the Federal Government and Kebbi State authorities.

“We call on President Bola Tinubu and Governor Mohammed Idris to take decisive action to restore security and enable displaced persons to return home safely,” the Diocese urged.

It warned that communities across the state are now gripped by fear, with residents unable to bury their dead or rebuild their lives in peace.

“People are being killed on a daily basis in Nigeria. Communities in Kebbi State are now living in fear,” the statement said.

The Diocese also appealed to humanitarian organisations and the international community to step in urgently to prevent a worsening crisis while calling for long-term solutions to insecurity in the region.

Twenty Four Christians, Muslims, Others Killed In Kebbi Attack- Report is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

Spain’s Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares said on Friday that he had urged his Iranian counterpart to engage in “good faith” during upcoming talks with the United States in Islamabad.

“I encourage Iran — this is what I conveyed to the Iranian foreign minister, to take part in those negotiations and to participate in good faith,” Albares told reporters.

He said he spoke with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi “the day before yesterday” and used the call to press Tehran to halt “all missile and drone launches.”

The remarks come as Iran and the United States prepare to hold direct negotiations in the Pakistani capital, following a fragile two-week ceasefire in the recent Iran conflict.

Albares also sharply criticised Israel for continuing its military operations in Lebanon against the Iran-backed group Hezbollah.

“Lebanon is a disgrace on the conscience of humanity,” the Spanish minister said. “The level of violence, the violation of international law and international humanitarian law by Israel is unacceptable.”

His comments reflect Spain’s longstanding position calling for de-escalation across the region, full respect for international law, and the inclusion of Lebanon in broader diplomatic efforts.

Spain Urges Iran To Negotiate In ‘Good Faith’ is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

The Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN), Abia State chapter, is once again in the spotlight. This time, it has embarked on a strike over the alleged non-payment of leave allowance, a development that has disrupted judicial activities and raised fresh concerns among stakeholders. The action, driven by the union’s leadership in the state, brings to the fore critical questions about accountability, transparency and the shared responsibility required to sustain progress in the public service.

At a press briefing held at Government House, Umuahia, the Abia State Government, through the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Barrister Ikechukwu Uwanna SAN, laid out its position with remarkable clarity. The government explained that upon receiving the union’s demand for leave allowance, it requested details of how the claims were computed and, crucially, evidence that such allowance was not already embedded in the consolidated salary structure of judiciary workers. According to the government, findings from the Office of the Accountant General indicate that what is described as “leave bonus” is already a component of the consolidated salary paid to judiciary staff. Yet, despite repeated requests, the union has not furnished any verifiable documentation to prove otherwise. Instead, it issued a strike notice, proceeding with industrial action without addressing the government’s inquiry.

What stands out in the government’s response is its openness and readiness to act swiftly once clarity is established. The assurance that payment will be made within 48 hours if the union provides credible evidence of non-inclusion of leave bonus in their salaries reflects a posture of responsibility rather than confrontation. It shifts the burden of proof appropriately to the union, especially given that the judiciary manages its own payroll. In a matter as sensitive as public finance, such documentation is not only necessary but fundamental. The question then arises: why has the union found it difficult to provide evidence that should ordinarily be within its reach?

This development must also be situated within the broader context of workers welfare in Abia State under the leadership of Governor Alex Chioma Otti OFR. Since assuming office, the administration has made prompt payment of salaries and pensions a defining feature of governance. Within a relatively short period, the era of salary arrears and pension backlogs has been effectively consigned to history. Workers now receive their entitlements on or before the twenty eighth of every month, while retirees, long neglected in previous years, have regained a measure of financial dignity. More importantly, the government has signalled that arrangements are nearing completion for the commencement of gratuity payments, a milestone that will further consolidate its pro-worker credentials. These are not mere promises but verifiable outcomes that have reshaped public sector confidence in the state.

Against this backdrop, the posture of Abia JUSUN raises legitimate concerns. The union has, on several occasions, appeared resistant to policies aimed at strengthening institutional integrity. A notable example is its stance on the verification of judiciary staff. While other arms of government have successfully undergone verification exercises designed to cleanse the payroll and eliminate irregularities, the judiciary has remained an exception, largely due to the union’s resistance. This reluctance invites uncomfortable but necessary questions. What is the basis for opposing a process that promotes accountability? Why should an exercise intended to eliminate fraud and ensure accurate data be seen as a threat?

The consequences of this resistance are far reaching. One of the most painful outcomes is the delay in the payment of pensions to retirees from the judiciary. Without proper verification, the government is constrained from making payments, as it must first ascertain the authenticity and number of beneficiaries. In effect, the continued refusal to embrace verification has inadvertently subjected elderly retirees to avoidable hardship. It is difficult to reconcile this reality with the union’s professed commitment to the welfare of its members, past and present.

At this critical juncture, the path forward is neither complicated nor contentious. Abia JUSUN must rise to the occasion by embracing transparency, sincerity and patriotism. The union prepares its payroll and therefore possesses the necessary records to clarify whether the leave bonus is included in its salary structure. Providing these details should not be an ordeal but a routine administrative step. As clearly stated by the Accountant General, Deaconess Njum Onyemanam, her office does not manage the judiciary payroll and can only act on properly documented submissions. The responsibility, therefore, rests squarely with the union to present verifiable evidence and facilitate resolution.

Governor Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, deserves commendation for sustaining a governance model that prioritises the welfare of workers and pensioners while insisting on accountability in public finance. His administration has demonstrated that fiscal discipline and compassion can co-exist, creating a system where obligations are met promptly without compromising transparency. It is a model that requires cooperation from all stakeholders to function effectively.

For Abia JUSUN, this is a defining moment. The union must align its actions with the broader interests of justice, fairness and development. Rather than resisting processes designed to strengthen the system, it should actively support them. By promptly providing the required payment details and embracing verification, the union cannot only secure its entitlements but also contribute meaningfully to the ongoing transformation of the state. In the end, transparency and patriotism are not abstract ideals; they are practical necessities for building a public service that truly serves the people.

Dr. Ebere Uzoukwa is the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor of Abia State on Public Affairs.

Abia JUSUN And Need To Imbibe Spirit Of Transparency, Patriotism is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

The death of Brigadier General Braimoh Oseni has triggered both grief and pointed criticism, with many Nigerians arguing that the circumstances surrounding his killing expose serious lapses in operational effectiveness and leadership oversight.

Oseni was killed alongside some of his troops serving under the 29 Task Force Brigade of Operation HADIN KAI during the assault on their camp in Benisheikh, Borno State.

The attack adds to a growing list of high-profile casualties within Nigeria’s military hierarchy amid ongoing insurgency in the North-East.

His death occurred barely five months after another senior officer, Brigadier General M. Uba, was killed by fighters of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP).

Uba, who commanded the 25 Task Force Brigade in Damboa, reportedly died after insurgents tracked and intercepted him along the Damboa–Biu axis, highlighting recurring vulnerabilities in military operations within the region.

Following news of Oseni’s death, Nigerians took to social media, particularly Facebook, to express grief, anger, and frustration, with many describing the incident as a reflection of systemic failure rather than an isolated battlefield loss.

According to a Facebook user and friend of the deceased, Gimbiya Hadeeza Khubra, Oseni wasn’t killed by a terrorist.

Khubra, “How do you come to terms with losing a friend you’ve known since childhood? I was worried… but you were hopeful. You believed the war would end.

“You said the intelligence from the Americans was helping… Alas, it has all gone with the wind. Terrorists did not kill you, Brigadier General Braimah Oseni Omoh, a deeper failure did!

“You were always gallant, and you passed on the same way defending innocent souls. Your blood is on their hands. You did not die in vain.

“God will avenge this senseless loss. May He grant you Al Jannatul Firdaus. You gave your life so peace could reign in Maiduguri… and now, we have lost you….

“May Allah grant you Al Janna firdous my dear brother. May Allah grant your young family and siblings especially your twin brother Al Braimah to bear this painful loss.”

Another user, Frank Frank, highlighted the frequency of such high-level losses, stressing that Nigeria, despite not being formally at war, has recorded multiple senior military casualties within a short period.

Frank said, “That’s somebody’s husband and father. Nigeria is really happening to Nigerians at every level. May God protect this country. Even in a war situation, you hardly kill a general. But a country that’s not at war, has lost two generals within 4 months.”

Maxwell Duku added, “Paying the Supreme price was what he patriotically signed up for Nigeria but to be cut down by those he swore to protect within the territory of the land, is so sad. Our hearts, my heart is so pained at such loss. May his soul rest in peace.”

Bunmi Ajegunmo attributed the situation to internal challenges within the country, arguing that governance issues have compounded the security crisis.

She said, “Nigeria is at war with itself making it a difficult war to win. Now the nation has fallen under misgovernance. Someone should pay for this nonsense.”

Anthony Dickson described Oseni as a calm and attentive officer who embodied professionalism and humanity in service.

He recalled the general’s personality and dedication, noting that his death raised questions about the value placed on military personnel’s sacrifices.

He said, “As a military officer and a Brigadier General at that, he was the perfect definition of an officer and a gentleman. Generous to a fault, always had a listening ear, called to service and he did serve his country and its citizens.

“It was a rude shock to hear this morning that he has fallen. Alas, Oseni paid the supreme price and died in active service. The painful question is ‘Will his sacrifice actually never be in vain?’

“While he was here with us, whenever we spoke he would remind me that I’m yet to buy him his bottle of wine for marrying his sister. I wish this were all a joke and I’m still able to buy you that bottle of wine.

“My heart goes out to Alasa his twin brother, and to his wife and children. May the sacrifice of our heroes never be in vain. You will be profoundly missed Oseni. Rest well gallant officer.”

Ehis Ikhueliane reflected on his last interaction with Oseni, describing him as humble despite his rank and deeply connected to his roots.

He said, “On February 21st, I wished you a happy birthday, and you responded well saying “Thank you, bro”. You were last seen just 11 hours ago,never did I imagine that would be the last time.

“You were a true son of the soil, a village man with a humble heart, yet a General per excellence. Your passing pains me deeply, especially as you were one of the very few Generals from Edo State who always responded to me with warmth and promptness.”

Ibrahim Muhammed Adam questioned the effectiveness of Nigeria’s security architecture, raising concerns about the safety of both civilians and top-ranking military officials.

He noted that, “If top Military personnel are not safe then who is safe in this country? Rest in Jannah warrior”.

‘Nigeria Failed You’— Grief, Anger Trail Killing Of Brig-Gen Oseni is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) on Thursday said it rescued a 36-year-old woman from alleged spousal abuse in Asokoro Extension, Abuja.

In a statement shared on its official X account, the agency disclosed that the operation was carried out by its Rapid Response Squad following credible information about the incident.

NAPTIP identified the suspect as Mr. Godwin, a 48-year-old man and husband of the victim, who was reportedly involved in physically assaulting her. The agency noted that the couple had been married for 22 years and are both from Kashi in Benue State.

According to the statement, NAPTIP operatives “successfully rescued the victim from the abusive environment and moved her to safety for necessary care and support.”

The agency further stated that it has “commenced necessary procedures to investigate the matter and ensure that all appropriate legal steps are taken” in line with its mandate to protect vulnerable persons.

Reaffirming its stance against domestic violence, NAPTIP said it “remains resolute in its determination to uphold the dignity, safety, and fundamental rights of all persons across the country.”

The agency also urged members of the public to report cases of domestic violence and related offences to enable swift intervention.

NAPTIP Rescues Woman From Alleged Spousal Abuse In Abuja is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

A member of the House of Representatives and chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Leke Abejide, has declared support for President Bola Tinubu’s re-election while rejecting claims that he has been suspended from his party.

Abejide, who represents Kogi State, made the remarks during an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Thursday, where he defended his political stance despite criticism that he is more aligned with the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

“I won my election on the platform of the ADC and I remain in the party,” he said. “But in the National Assembly, you cannot work alone. You must relate with others, and most of the people I work with are in the APC.”

The lawmaker openly stated that, if given the opportunity to vote in a presidential election today, he would support President Tinubu, stressing that his decision is based on individual merit rather than party affiliation.

“If I am to vote today, I will vote for Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu. It is not about party; it is about the person,” he said.

Pressed on whether his position amounts to disloyalty to the ADC, Abejide dismissed the claim, insisting that political cooperation should not be mistaken for defection.

“I am not a member of two parties. I am talking about human relationships. I have long-standing associates in APC, and I cannot isolate myself,” he stated, adding, “My heart is in APC and in ADC.”

On the leadership crisis rocking the ADC, Abejide strongly refuted reports that he had been suspended, questioning the authority of those behind the move.

“Nobody can suspend me. Those who claimed to have suspended me are not even recognized,” he said. “How can an illegal group suspend a legitimate member? Have you seen tenants chase away a landlord?”

He accused some prominent political figures, including former Senate President David Mark and other coalition leaders, of attempting to take over the party structure without due process.

“They came with the intention of taking over the party and pushing out those who built it. I cannot support that,” Abejide said, arguing that the party’s constitution clearly stipulates eligibility requirements for leadership positions.

“You must be a member of the ADC for at least two years before holding national office. Many of those claiming leadership did not meet that requirement,” he added.

Abejide also expressed support for Nafiu Bala as the legitimate leader of the party, insisting that he did not resign his position as claimed by opposing factions.

“If others stepped aside, leadership should naturally fall to Nafiu Bala. He did not resign,” he said.

The lawmaker further dismissed allegations that the APC or President Tinubu is behind the crisis within the ADC, describing such claims as unfounded.

“It is not true. The problem is internal. Opposition parties must put their houses in order instead of blaming others,” he said.

While maintaining his membership of the ADC, Abejide hinted at the possibility of leaving the party saying, “If the court judgment goes against my position, I will leave and continue my political career elsewhere,” he said, noting that “APC is the most stable party in Nigeria today.”

He also defended the Tinubu administration’s economic policies, arguing that, “This government started from ground zero. There was a time Nigerians could not even access their own money in banks,” he said. “People forget too quickly what the situation was before.”

Abejide added, “If we want progress, we must follow the law and also seek political solutions where necessary.”

ADC Rep Backs Tinubu Re-Election, Dares David Mark Over Suspension is first published on The Whistler Newspaper