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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

Fawas Alarape, 23, aka Karube, fingered in multiple cases of murder, armed robbery, stealing and other violent crimes, has been arrested by the Nigeria Police Force, Zone 2 headquarters Onikan, Lagos.

On March 3, 2026, operatives attached to the Zonal Puff Adder team, embarked on an operation, which led to the arrest of Alarape before others were arrested in later days.

Alarape and five others were said to be responsible for the murders of 40-year-old Olumide Adegbite aka Okoro on February 14, 2026; 37-year-old Kehinde Shuaibu and 35-year-old Monday Okoro on February 18, 2026 at Orile Iganmu area of Lagos.

Interrogation and useful information received from the suspect upon his arrest prompted operatives to raid a criminal hideout tagged Lion’s den by criminal elements, on Adeleye Street of Orile Iganmu, Lagos, and arrested five other suspects.

In the March 5, 2026 raid, 33-year-old Bamidele Mustapha, aka Mentor; 22-year-old Soliu Ahmed, aka Tinko Butcher Man; 26-year-old Oluwaseun Bolarinwa, aka Porta; 22-year-old Abass Abideen, aka Omo Olomo; 24-year-old Salisu Ali, aka Omo Hausa and 30-year-old Atanda Lukmon, aka Bansa, was arrested at White Sand in Orile Iganmu.

During the raid, one local shotgun, four cutlasses, one knife, one claw hammer, four live cartridges, three expended cartridges and different charms were recovered.

Spokesperson for the command, Gbenga Afolayan, said in the course of interrogation, Alarape confessed involvement in the murder of one Ikujowolo at Shitta under bridge, Surulere, Lagos, where the deceased, a tricycle rider, was robbed of his tricycle and was subsequently shot dead. 

He added that the suspect further disclosed that the act was carried out alongside one Ahmed Oladele, a.k.a Small Messi, now at large with four guns in his possession, while others including Mustapha Bamidele, Bolarinwa Oluwaseun and Soliu Ahmed participated in the attack.

“The suspects are in police custody and assisting with investigations. They will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations for multiple cases of murder, armed robbery, stealing, cultism, unlawful possession of firearm and criminal conspiracy.”

The Assistant Inspector General (AIG) of Police, Olohundare Jimoh, commended operatives for their professionalism, bravery and commitment to duty. He reiterated the resolve of the zonal headquarters to rid Lagos and Ogun states of criminal elements while ensuring the safety of lives and property of residents

The Zonal headquarters urged members of the public to remain vigilant and continue to support the police with timely and credible information.

Residents of Omugo community in Oro Ago District of Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State have raised alarm over the continued captivity of eight abducted worshippers, revealing that kidnappers are insisting on a ₦150 million ransom for their release.

They called for urgent intervention from the government and security agencies expressing concerns over their plight.

The disclosure was made during a press conference on Thursday by spokesperson of the community, Olaitan Tajudeen Jimoh.

He decried the worsening security situation in the community.

The victims were abducted on March 22, 2026, during a church service at the Evangelical Church Winning All in Omugo.

Residents say the attack was the third in the community within six months.

According to Jimoh, the latest attack has deepened fear and displacement among residents, many of whom have reportedly fled their homes.

“This is not merely a security breach; it is a brutal assault on our faith, our dignity, and our very right to exist. Many people had and continue to flee their home even as we speak ” he said.

He added that the victims, many of them elderly, remain in captivity under harsh conditions, describing the situation as a humanitarian crisis.

According to him, “initial contact with the abductors indicated a ransom demand of ₦1 billion, which was later reduced to ₦150 million”.

He said the amount is beyond the reach of affected families.

The community expressed concern over “persistent security gaps”, warning that failure to act decisively could embolden attackers and spread violence to neighbouring areas.

Among its demands, the community called for an immediate, intelligence driven rescue operation involving federal and state authorities as well as security agencies.

They also urged the deployment of personnel to a police station reportedly built by the community but yet to be operational, noting that the absence of security presence has left the area vulnerable.

In addition, the group advocated the establishment of a Joint Task Force base comprising the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Police Force, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps to ensure rapid response and sustained security coverage.

They further called for the formal integration of local vigilante groups and hunters into the security architecture, citing their knowledge of the terrain as critical in tackling armed groups.

While acknowledging past interventions by the state government in 2025, the community urged authorities not to relent, insisting that the current situation requires urgent and sustained action.

In his remarks, Revd Sunday Omole, who officiated during the incident, said “several communities have remained deserted”.

The clergy said they have been living in fear and anxiety since the incident, adding that the “trauma of those in captivity for 18 days now has been deeply distressing for families and the entire community”.

 

Suspected motorcycle robbers have severed the hand of a teacher, Isah Salkana, during a violent attack in Bunkure Local Government Area of Kano State.

A statement issued by the Secretary for Public Enlightenment, Rano Emirate Council, Nasiru Habu Faragai, said that incident occurred on Wednesday night, April 9, 2026 along the Funkuyi road under the Buran district.

Faragai said the victim, a resident of Sarkin Bakar Rano, was attacked while attempting to rescue another victim, Malam Sauwanu Hadi, whose motorcycle and mobile phone were being forcefully taken away by the assailants.

He explained that the attackers initially tried to shoot Sallama, but their gun malfunctioned.

“When the gun failed, they resorted to using a machete and chopped off his hand, leaving him in a critical condition,” the statement said.

The incident was formally reported by the District Head of Bunkure, Alhaji Aminu Isa Umaru, to the Emir of Rano, Muhammad Isa Umaru.

Reacting, the emir described the attack as disturbing and directed that the matter be reported to security agencies for a thorough investigation.

He also approved a donation of N100,000 to support the victim’s medical treatment.

The monarch urged community leaders and security operatives to intensify efforts to curb robbery and other criminal activities in the area.

The African Democratic Congress, ADC, has filed a suit before a Federal High Court in Abuja, seeking an order compelling the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, to restore the names of Senator David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola as the party’s National Chairman and National Secretary, respectively.

The suit, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/1819/2025, followed the removal of their names, alongside other members of the party’s National Working Committee, NWC, from INEC’s official portal on April 1.

In a motion on notice dated April 7, filed by counsel to Mark, Sulaiman Usman, SAN, the plaintiff is asking the court to issue a mandatory injunction directing INEC to reinstate the affected officials as they existed before the dispute.

The application, brought under Order 26 Rules 1 to 4 of the Federal High Court (Civil Procedure) Rules, 2019, as well as the court’s inherent jurisdiction, seeks three principal relief

Part of the relief reads: “An order of mandatory injunction, setting aside the decision, act, or directive of the respondent removing the names of the applicant’s National Working Committee from its official portal and the decision of refusal to attend or monitor the applicant’s congresses or convention pending the hearing and determination of the suit.

It further seeks: “An order of mandatory injunction directing INEC to forthwith restore and maintain records of the names of Senator David Mark as National Chairman and Rauf Aregbesola as National Secretary, as well as all members of the National Executive Committee.”

The plaintiff also prayed the court for: “An order restraining INEC from tampering with, or otherwise interfering with, the said leadership records, or recognising any contrary or competing claims, pending the final determination of the suit.”

The suit arose from the March 12 judgment of the Court of Appeal in a leadership dispute initiated by a former Deputy National Chairman of the party, Nafiu Gombe, before Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court

In a supporting affidavit, Usman argued that the appellate court had directed parties to maintain the status quo ante bellum, describing it as the last uncontested state of affairs before the dispute.

Meanwhile, immediate past National Chairman of the ADC, Ralph Nwosu, yesterday, said the party will continue preparations for its convention and congresses and won’t be distracted by the leadership crisis rocking the party, which parades some of the biggest opposition politicians in Nigeria.

On a day that the Nafiu Gombe-led factioan of the party held a counter-protest at the headquarters of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, Nwosu, who is backing the Senator David Mark-led leadership of the ADC spoke during an interview on Channels Television.

Insisting that the ADC is moving on with its plans ahead of the 2027 general elections despite INEC’s de-recognition of the Mark and Gombe camps citing court order, Nwosu said: “We are taking the necessary action both in court and with INEC, but we will not allow INEC to derail any of our programmes. After that malicious INEC release, our chairman and the rest of us sat together and decided to move ahead,

“We submitted our programme to INEC according to the law, and they endorsed it—all the dates were endorsed. By the electoral law, whether they show up or not is their own volition; we have not violated anything

“The congresses have already started. Our national convention, slated for the 14th , will also go on, where we will validate everything we’ve done. We don’t want opportunists in the ADC; we want mission-driven leaders who have the courage to challenge a bad system.”

Nwosu said the ADC will inform INEC of its programmes, including “our upcoming national convention to select our presidential and general candidates. If they don’t accept it, we will publish it to all Nigerian media because they represent the people,” Nwosu, who founded the ADC, said.

The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) has dismissed as false a circulating image of a new N5,000 bank note.

Some social media users claimed that the CBN has released the first sample of a N5,000 note featuring an image of president Bola Tinubu. 

The now-viral image has elicited flurry of reactions from social media users. 

But debunking the report, the apex bank in a post on its official X handle, formerly Twitter, said, “This content is fake. Let the public be guided.”

The Nation subjected the viral image to an AI detector tool, Hive Moderation, which showed that it contained over 90 per cent AI material.

This indicates that the image has been generated by an artificial intelligence (AI) tool that is part of the social media platform X.

Artificial intelligence uses complex computer algorithms to perform tasks otherwise done by humans, like answering questions and writing code. 

In 2012, the CBN announced plans to introduce N5,000 notes. But in 2022, the bank backtracked on these plans. Over the years, there have been calls for the introduction of N5,000 notes.

Section 18(a) and 18(b) of CBN Act 2007 gives the Central Bank absolute power (with no legislative intervention) to:

(a) arrange for the printing of currency notes and the minting of coins;

(b) issue, re-issue and exchange currency notes and coins at the Bank’s offices and at such agencies as it may, from time to time, establish or appoint.