The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • PDP faction sets up National Caretaker Committee

    PDP faction sets up National Caretaker Committee

    • Tenure of NWC ends tomorrow

    The Wike/Anyanwu faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) yesterday set up a National Caretaker Committee (NCC) to steer its affairs for the next 60 days, pending the conduct of a National Convention.

    The 13-member interim structure, headed by Mohammed Abdulrahman as chairman, was set up at the 104th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting of the party held in Abuja.

    The out-going National Secretary and member of the National Working Committee (NWC), whose tenure expires tomorrow, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, will serve as Secretary of the caretaker committee.

    Other members of the committee are: National Legal Adviser, Kamaldeen Ajibade (SAN), National Organising Secretary, Umar M. Bature, Dr Kyari Grema, Janguda Haruna Mohammed, Okechukwu Osuana, Senator Nwogu Olaka, Senator Sandy Onor, Prof Adenike Ogunse, Bisi Kolawole, Deji Doherty, and Dr. Ibrahim Bala Aboki.

    During the 60 days, all pending congresses are expected to be conducted and a national convention held, Abdulrahman said.

    The faction had distanced itself from the National Convention held by the Makinde/Turaki faction, which produced Saminu Turaki as Chairman.

    Both factions have been fighting over the National Secretariat in Wadata Plaza, Abuja, which has been sealed by security agents to prevent likely breakdown of law and order.

    This week, the two camps will return to court for the continuation of the legal battle over the party’s leadership.

    READ ALSO; The miracle of Nnamdi Kanu

    Abdulrahman, Anyanwu: we will plan a new convention

    Abdulrahman said the Caretaker Committee would provide effective and consultative leadership.

    Also, Anyanwu said the Caretaker Committee would present plans for a National Convention within the next 60 days.

    He added: “All sins are forgiven and all party members who believe in the law and due process will be allowed back in all wards, local government and state chapters without delay.”

    Defectors are PDP’s problem, says Wike

    Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike, who spoke during the inauguration of the Caretaker Committee, said the party would not allow defectors to cripple the platform.

    The Minister also berated the Makinde/Turaki faction for violating court judgments by conducting what he described as an “illegal convention.”

    Wike said PDP must respect judicial processes if it intends to regain public confidence.

    He accused the faction of disregarding two substantive judgments of the Federal High Court, which halted preparations for the convention held at the Adamasingba Stadium in Ibadan, Oyo State.

    Wike said: “You went to a State High Court to sue INEC, asking that the convention must take place, and you got an ex-parte order to override judgments of the Federal High Court: how do you disobey two final judgments and still claim leadership?”

    He wondered why the same faction returned to another court, seeking validation after failing to comply with lawful rulings.

    Wike added: “You had the convention without obeying the court, and now you are back asking a Federal High Court to recognize you. If INEC already recognises you, what exactly are you going to court for?”

    The minister warned that such actions could jeopardize the future of the party, stressing that leaders must not allow selfish interests to destroy the platform that has existed since 1998.

    He said: “We must not allow our party to die. Leadership requires commitment and honesty, not propaganda. If we don’t respect our own laws, how do we earn respect from Nigerians?”

    Wike urged party faithful to support lawful leadership and unite to rebuild the PDP in line with democratic principles and judicial integrity.

    Hailing party leaders from various states who have resolutely stood firm behind him, Wike threw jokes at PDP Governors  leading the opposition.

    Wike attributed the problem of PDP to the activities of the serial defectors

    He said: “In 1998, when this party was being formed, I was there and I was elected as council chairman in December 1998 and later, I ran for governor, and I won; all my life I have never left PDP for one day.

    “But Bala Mohammed was a senator under APP and because of the Doctrine of Necessity at the beginning of the Goodluck Jonathan era, he became a Minister and joined us.

    “As for Seyi Makinde, my younger brother, he was in SDP, he did not make it there. Honourable Mulikat and some others brought him to me

    “Because our party had always welcomed people, people come, they become governor, they become this or that and they want to dictate what will happen and to pursue those who have been there from the beginning, from the inception of this party.

    “If people had allowed them before, we would not allow them now; of course, I can tell you, they have no choice because they are on their way out of the party.”

    Wike added: “So, the main fact, money is not everything; money is good, but money has its own limitations; just because the President is allowing states to have huge allocations does not mean that some people must use it to complicate life for others.”

  • Fed Govt begins transition of FIRS into NRS

    Fed Govt begins transition of FIRS into NRS

    Ahead of the change in its nomenclature come January 1,   the Federal Government has begun the restructuring of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), it was learnt at the weekend.

    Senior officials of the FIRS confirmed to The Nation that the process  of transiting to  the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS) is on, following the passage of the Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Act, 2025, which repeals the FIRS Establishment Act of 2007 and creates a new legal and institutional framework for national tax administration.

    A staff member involved in the transition, who spoke to The Nation, said the reorganisation is progressing steadily across all levels of the institution.

    According to the official, the restructuring is going on well, we now have Executive Directors replacing those hitherto known and addressed as Coordinating Directors.”

    He said that several departments and units are already being redesigned to align with the structure prescribed under the new law.

     “Some departments and units are also being restructured and consolidated in accordance with the shape and form of the new tax laws. From top to bottom, everyone at FIRS is ready and eagerly awaiting January 1 when we will be officially known as the Nigeria Revenue Service (NRS),” the official said.

    Another source  explained that the change in nomenclature and hierarchy is mandated by the NRS Establishment Act.

    “In the NRS Establishment Act, there is no provision for coordinating directors, you know. We only have executive directors and they have already been employed, but… maybe they are waiting for the formal process at the National Assembly,” the source said.

    READ ALSO; The miracle of Nnamdi Kanu

    According to the official, the transition has affected senior personnel differently.

     “Current coordinating directors? Some are re-employed as executive directors. Some have been laid off. They are still working on the structure. They will release the structure much later,” the source added.

    The Nigeria Revenue Service (Establishment) Act, 2025, introduces sweeping reforms to Nigeria’s tax administration system. It creates a unified, modern, and technology-driven institution with broad powers to assess, collect, account for, and administer all revenues accruing to the Federal Government.

    The Act applies across the country and empowers the NRS to assess taxable persons, enforce payment of taxes, administer all federal revenue, review tax regimes in collaboration with relevant ministries, and strengthen compliance through investigation and enforcement measures.

    The law also equips the Service with the authority to combat tax evasion and fraud by determining financial losses, tracing illicit proceeds, and freezing or confiscating assets linked to tax offences. It allows the NRS to exchange information with domestic and international agencies, deploy digital systems for tax administration, maintain a national database of taxable persons, and carry out public awareness campaigns on tax compliance.

    The Act  provides for administrative support to states and local governments that request assistance in tax collection, as long as they have the constitutional mandate to collect such taxes. Any revenue collected on behalf of another authority must be remitted directly to that authority.

    At the governance level, the Act establishes a new Governing Board chaired by the Executive Chairman of the NRS.

    The board comprises nine ex-officio members drawn from key federal institutions, as well as up to six members representing the six geopolitical zones, appointed by the President.

    The Executive Chairman and non-ex-officio members will serve renewable four-year terms.

    The Act also introduces the position of Executive Directors—one from each geopolitical zone—appointed by the President to head major directorates within the Service.

    A Management Committee and a Technical Committee are also provided for, to support policy implementation and technical decision-making.

    On financial provisions, the Service will be funded by four per cent of total revenue collected (excluding petroleum royalties), as appropriated by the National Assembly. The Act exempts the NRS from income taxes but mandates it to remit taxes deducted from others. It also empowers the Accountant-General of the Federation to deduct unremitted revenues directly from the budgets of government institutions found to be in default.

    The new law contains strict secrecy and confidentiality obligations for personnel, with penalties of up to N5 million or three years’ imprisonment for unauthorised disclosure of taxpayer information.

    The transition provisions in the Act ensure continuity by transferring all powers, assets, liabilities, staff, and ongoing activities of the FIRS to the NRS.

    Existing court cases, contracts, and official actions will continue as valid under the new legal regime.

    With restructuring now underway, staff members of the Service say they are preparing for a seamless takeoff of the NRS on January 1, marking a significant transformation in Nigeria’s tax and revenue administration framework.

  • ‘How Nigeria helped foil military coup in Benin Republic’

    ‘How Nigeria helped foil military coup in Benin Republic’

    …as Tinubu hails armed forces for defending democracy across borders

    Nigeria’s armed forces on Sunday helped foil an attempted military takeover in neighbouring Benin Republic, swiftly responding to urgent requests from Cotonou and restoring constitutional order within hours of the dawn coup attempt.

    According to a State House statement signed by Presidential Spokesman Bayo Onanuga, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ordered immediate military action after receiving two formal requests from the Government of Benin, which reported that coup plotters had seized the National Television station and claimed to have toppled President Patrice Talon.

    The coup, led by Colonel Pascal Tigri, briefly disrupted Benin’s 35-year-old democratic order as the mutinous soldiers announced the suspension of democratic institutions and attempted to establish control over the state broadcaster and a military camp.

    In response to Benin’s Note Verbale requesting emergency assistance, President Tinubu authorised Nigerian Air Force fighter jets to take over Beninoise airspace “to safeguard the constitutional order, protect national institutions and ensure the security of the population.”

    A second request later sought the deployment of ground forces as well as surveillance and rapid-intervention operations under Benin’s command authority.

    Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, confirmed that all directives from the Beninese authorities were executed.

    READ ALSO; By 2026, countries will be borrowing from Nigeria— First Lady declares

    “Ours is to comply with the order of the Commander-in-Chief of our armed forces, President Tinubu,” he said, noting that Nigerian troops were already operating inside Benin in support roles approved by the host government.

    Loyal forces of the Beninese government, supported by Nigerian units, regained control of strategic locations and flushed out the insurgent soldiers from the National TV, restoring public communications and constitutional authority.

    In remarks after the operation, President Tinubu praised Nigerian troops for acting decisively and within established regional protocols.

    “Today, the Nigerian armed forces stood gallantly as a defender and protector of constitutional order in the Republic of Benin on the invitation of the government,” he said.

    He emphasised that the intervention was consistent with ECOWAS’ democracy and good governance framework and demonstrated Nigeria’s commitment to regional stability.

    “They have helped stabilise a neighbouring country and have made us proud of their commitment to sustaining our democratic values and ideals since 1999. Nigeria stands firmly with the government and people of the Republic of Benin,” the President stated.

  • UPDATED: Wike’s faction inaugurates 13-member PDP caretaker committee as tenure of NWC ends Tuesday

    UPDATED: Wike’s faction inaugurates 13-member PDP caretaker committee as tenure of NWC ends Tuesday

    …Wike vows PDP will not die

    …says Makinde, Mohammed, others on their way out of PDP

    The internal crisis within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) escalated on Sunday night as the Abdulrahman Mohammed-led faction inaugurated a national caretaker committee ahead of the expiration of the current National Working Committee (NWC) on Tuesday, December 9.

    The move, approved by the party’s National Executive Committee (NEC) during a meeting held at the official residence of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, followed a recommendation earlier made by the Board of Trustees (BoT) after its session in Abuja.

    Mohammed disclosed that the NWC had already petitioned the Police and other security agencies over the botched 103rd NEC meeting, adding that security operatives were acting on the petition.

    The 13-member Caretaker Committee has Hon. Abdulrahman Mohammed as Chairman and Senator Samuel Anyanwu as Secretary.

    Other members include Kamaldeen Ajibade (SAN), Hon. Umar M. Bature, Dr. Kyari Grema, Hon. Janguda Haruna Mohammed, Barr. Okechukwu Osuana, Senator Nwogu Olaka, Senator Sandy Onor, Prof. Adenike Ogunse, Hon. Bisi Kolawole, Engr. Deji Doherty, and Dr. Ibrahim Bala Aboki.

    The committee has been tasked with overseeing the party’s affairs for 60 days, during which pending congresses are to be concluded and a national convention conducted.

    BoT Chairman, Senator Mao Ohuabunwa, stressed the need for the NEC to act promptly to avoid a leadership vacuum in the party.

    Ohabunwa said, “Since nature abhors a vacuum, it has become imperative for the party to take necessary steps to avoid any lacuna,” he declared, noting that the caretaker structure would also be replicated in “affected states and the South East zone.”

    State chairmen, represented by the Imo PDP Chairman, Augustine Nwachukwu, commended the NWC for “trying to put the party on a firm footing before the conduct of a national convention.”

    The National Assembly caucus, represented by the Leader of the Caucus, Kingsley Chinda, also reaffirmed its confidence in the Abdulrahman Mohammed leadership. “Let the rule of law, which is entrenched in the PDP, have its way,” he said.

    Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, intensified his confrontation with the opposing faction, declaring that Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, and others were “on their way out of the PDP.”

    READ ALSO; By 2026, countries will be borrowing from Nigeria— First Lady declares

    Wike also berated the other faction of the party for violating court judgments by conducting what he described as an “illegal convention,” insisting that the party must respect judicial processes if it intends to regain public confidence.

    He accused the faction of disregarding two substantive judgments of the Federal High Court, which he said had ruled on the matter, yet they proceeded to hold their own convention and later approached a State High Court to seek recognition.

    The FCT Minister warned that such actions could jeopardize the future of the party, stressing that leaders must not allow selfish interests to destroy the political platform that has existed since 1998.

    “We won’t let those we accepted into the PDP kill the party. I joined the party in 1998. Bala Mohammed came after the doctrine of necessity that brought in President Jonathan in 2010. Makinde came from SDP, and then you want to push away those of us you met here. We won’t allow it. But they have no choice again, because they are on their way out. They have no choice”, he declared.

    Wike criticized Governor Mohammed’s stewardship as chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum, saying he “should be ashamed” that under his watch the party lost several governors to the APC, contrasting it with his own period as governor, “when more people, including governors, came into the party.”

    The former Rivers State governor also accused the rival faction of serially disobeying court judgments while attempting to secure legitimacy through questionable legal manoeuvres.

    “You went to a State High Court to sue INEC, asking that the convention must take place, and you got an ex parte order to override judgments of the Federal High Court. How do you disobey two final judgments and still claim leadership?” he queried.

    He added that the same group said it “had the convention without obeying the court, and now you are back asking a State High Court to recognize you. If INEC already recognizes you, what exactly are you going to court for?”

    Warning that such actions threaten the party’s survival, Wike declared: “We must not allow our party to die. Leadership requires commitment and honesty, not propaganda. If we don’t respect our own laws, how do we earn respect from Nigerians?”

    Meanwhile, the factional Board of Trustees aligned with Wike unveiled a sweeping internal restructuring agenda aimed at restoring stability to the party.

    Speaking at the opening session of the faction’s BoT meeting at Life Camp, Abuja, Senator Ohuabunwa said the group was committed to “rebuilding the PDP from within and restoring public confidence in its internal processes.”

    He revealed that the faction was already “making meaningful progress in reorganizing affected states, including the constitution of credible caretaker committees,” adding that the reforms were meant to “prepare the ground for transparent congresses and subsequent convention process.”

    Insisting that the PDP must reclaim its identity as a disciplined political institution, Ohuabunwa said: “These reforms are necessary to build trust, strengthen internal structures and ensure that our party remains a model of fairness and inclusiveness.”

    He affirmed total support for the Abdulrahman Mohammed-led NWC, saying, “We are going to work with this NWC, we are going to encourage them, we are going to support them to ensure that the right things are done, and that things will be done in line with the law and the guidance of our great party.”

    Calling the BoT the “conscience of the party” and its “moral compass,” he stressed: “We must stand and face the truth, and ensure that this party stands to be counted at all times in our obedience to the laws of the Federation, the laws of our party, and the guidelines of the Independent National Electoral Commission.”

    He urged members to act with unity, saying “In this defining moment, therefore, we must rise above sentiments and act with unity of all.”

    Several party heavyweights attended the meeting, including factional National Secretary Senator Samuel Anyanwu; former Abia Governor Okezie Ikpeazu; former deputy governors Dr Philip Salawu, Ayo Fayose and Dr Samuel Ortom; among other chieftains.

  • Five best camera phones launched in 2025

    Five best camera phones launched in 2025

    Smartphone manufacturers raised the bar for mobile photography in 2025, with several flagship devices delivering major leaps in sensor quality, optical zoom, and video performance. From Apple to Samsung and Vivo, this year’s premium models pushed mobile imaging closer to professional standards.

    Below are five standout camera phones that defined the year.

    1. iPhone 17 Pro Max

    Apple’s iPhone 17 Pro Max ranks among the year’s strongest camera flagships. It features an advanced triple-lens system comprising a 48MP main sensor with sensor-shift stabilisation, a 48MP periscope telephoto with 4x optical zoom, and a 48MP ultrawide lens. Support for Dolby Vision HDR, ProRes, Apple Log 2, and spatial video, alongside a LiDAR scanner, gives it robust versatility and pro-level output.

    2. Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra

    Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Ultra continues the brand’s dominance in high-end imaging. It houses a 200MP primary camera, a 50MP periscope lens with 5x optical zoom, a 10MP telephoto, and a 50MP ultrawide shooter. With 8K video and HDR10+ support, the device produces crisp detail and vivid colours, securing its place among 2025’s top camera-focused smartphones.

    3. Vivo X300 Pro

    The Vivo X300 Pro earned widespread praise for its powerful triple-camera setup: a 50MP wide sensor with OIS, a 200MP periscope telephoto with 3.7x optical zoom and macro capability, and a 50MP ultrawide lens. Equipped with Zeiss optics, Dolby Vision HDR, 8K video, and a 50MP selfie camera capable of 4K recording, it offers impressive stills and strong professional-grade video performance.

    READ ALSO; By 2026, countries will be borrowing from Nigeria— First Lady declares

    4. Google Pixel 10 Pro

    Google’s Pixel 10 Pro maintains the brand’s reputation for computational photography. It features a 50MP main camera, a 48MP periscope telephoto with 5x zoom, and a 48MP ultrawide lens. Its 42MP selfie camera supports sharp 4K video. Powered by Google’s advanced imaging algorithms, it stands out as one of 2025’s most reliable camera performers.

    5. Oppo Find X9 Pro

    Oppo’s Find X9 Pro rounds out the year’s best camera devices with a versatile triple-lens configuration: a 50MP primary sensor with OIS, a 200MP periscope telephoto offering 3x optical zoom, and a 50MP ultrawide shooter. Hasselblad colour calibration, laser autofocus, Dolby Vision, and LOG video recording combine to deliver exceptional image quality. A 50MP 4K selfie camera further enhances its appeal for creators.

  • We’ve no official confirmation on reported release of 100 abducted students – Niger govt, CAN

    We’ve no official confirmation on reported release of 100 abducted students – Niger govt, CAN

    The Niger State Government and the state chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) on Sunday evening said they have not received any official communication confirming the reported release of 100 children abducted from St Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools, Papiri, in Agwara Local Government Area.

    Speaking with The Nation on Sunday night, the Chief Press Secretary to the Niger State Governor, Bologi Ibrahim, said the government is still verifying the information with the federal authorities. He added that an update would be provided once confirmed details are received.

    Similarly, the Niger State CAN Chairman, Bishop Bulus Yohanna — who is also the Bishop of the Kontagora Catholic Diocese and Proprietor of St Mary’s Catholic Schools — said they have not been formally notified of any release.

    READ ALSO; By 2026, countries will be borrowing from Nigeria— First Lady declares

    In a statement issued through his media aide, Bishop Yohanna said, “It will be a thing of joy if some of our children have been released. We have been praying and waiting for their return; if it is true, then it is cheering news.

    “However, we are not officially aware and have not been duly notified. We hope and pray it is true and look forward to the release of the remaining children.”

  • Osoba explains why his administration prioritised education over funding pilgrimages

    Osoba explains why his administration prioritised education over funding pilgrimages

    Barely 22 years after leaving office, former Ogun State Governor, Segun Osoba, has explained why his administration focused on supporting the education sector rather than funding Muslim and Christian pilgrimages.

    Osoba said that between 1999 and 2003, many pupils were bringing chairs and desks from home, and a significant number could not sit for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) because their parents could not afford the fees.

    “Instead of spending millions on religious pilgrimages, we decided it was better to support education by providing chairs and desks and paying WAEC fees to ease the burden on students and their families,” he said.

    The APC national leader made these remarks on Sunday after being decorated as a Life Vice Patron of the Abeokuta Club. Former Nestlé Nigeria CEO, Segun Osunkeye, was also honoured with the same recognition.

    READ ALSO; By 2026, countries will be borrowing from Nigeria— First Lady declares

    Osoba further noted that his administration relied entirely on the state’s workforce to execute projects, highlighting rural electrification, rural road construction, and the Abeokuta Hilltop Housing Estate as key achievements. He described the estate as “perhaps the most expensive, most secure, and best estate today.”

    “I never brought anyone from outside the state to work with me—not even a messenger. The modest successes recorded during my administration were all thanks to our civil servants, including technocrats who were part of the service,” he said.

    Reflecting on his Abeokuta Club honour, the octogenarian elder statesman described it as the “greatest honour” he had received and expressed fulfillment at being celebrated by his own community.

  • Tinubu hails Oyakhilome at birthday, praises global impact of ministry

    Tinubu hails Oyakhilome at birthday, praises global impact of ministry

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated the founder of Christ Embassy and President of LoveWorld Incorporated, Pastor Chris Oyakhilome, on the occasion of his birthday, extolling the popular televangelist for his spiritual leadership and charitable works.

    In a message released by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, on Sunday, President Tinubu described Pastor Oyakhilome as “an author, televangelist, and charismatic teacher of the Word whose rare gift of insight and charity has impacted lives across nations.”

    Pastor Oyakhilome, who established Christ Embassy, one of Nigeria’s largest Christian ministries, is also the author of the globally distributed daily devotional, Rhapsody of Realities, used by millions of readers across continents.

    The President noted that the central theme of Pastor Oyakhilome’s ministry remains love, stressing that his message mirrors the example of Jesus Christ by promoting compassion, hope, and spiritual transformation.

    He further acknowledged the international reach of the clergyman’s teachings, saying his ministry has significantly shaped Christian evangelism both within and outside Nigeria.

    READ ALSO; By 2026, countries will be borrowing from Nigeria— First Lady declares

    According to the President, Pastor Oyakhilome “has changed the face of ministry in Nigeria and beyond.”

    President Tinubu also commended the pastor’s longstanding philanthropic work, applauding his commitment to standing up for vulnerable individuals and supporting the needy through the church’s humanitarian programmes.

    The President wished Pastor Oyakhilome more strength as he continues what he described as “the Lord’s work,” and prayed for continued grace in his service to God and humanity.

    The message concluded by celebrating the cleric’s contribution to the spiritual growth of millions of Christians at home and abroad.

  • Coup: ECOWAS deploys regional standby force to Benin Republic

    Coup: ECOWAS deploys regional standby force to Benin Republic

    The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has ordered the deployment of the regional Intervention force to the Benin Republic.

    The order was made over the failed coup attempt in the French-speaking West African state.

    Some elements within the Benin Republic military had earlier Sunday morning announced that the military had taken over the government.

    The rebel soldiers, led by Lt Col Pascal Tigri, justified their actions by criticising Talon’s management of the country, complaining first about his handling of the “continuing deterioration of the security situation in northern Benin”.

    But the military loyal to the democratic government quickly stepped in to quell the uprising.

    Reacting to the situation, ECOWAS Heads of States and Government announced the deployment of elements of the ECOWAS Standby Force to the Republic of Benin.

    The deployment according to a statement by the regional body is with immediate effect.

    The regional force is to support the Government and the Republican Army of Benin to preserve constitutional order and the territorial integrity of the country.

    READ ALSO; By 2026, countries will be borrowing from Nigeria— First Lady declares

    The statement reads, “Further to its earlier statement on the Republic of Benin, the ECOWAS Commission hereby informs the general public that: Pursuant to the provisions of relevant ECOWAS instruments, in particular Article 25(e) of the 1999 Protocol Relating to the Mechanism for Conflict Prevention, Management, Resolution, Peacekeeping and Security, and

    “After consultation among members of the Mediation and Security Council at the level of Heads of State and Government,

    “The Chair of ECOWAS Authority of Heads of state and Government has ordered the deployment of elements of the ECOWAS Standby Force to the Republic of Benin with immediate effect.

    “The Regional Force shall be made up of troops from the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Republic of Sierra Leone, the Republic of Cote D’ivoire, and the Republic of Ghana.

    “The Force shall support the Government and the Republican Army of Benin to preserve constitutional order and the territorial integrity of the Republic of Benin.”

  • PDP will not die, Wike vows

    PDP will not die, Wike vows

    …vows to protect party from defectors

    Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, on Sunday vowed that he and other founding members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) will not allow entrants from other parties to undermine or destroy the party.

    Speaking at the 104th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting at his official residence in Abuja, Wike criticised a faction of the party for violating court judgments by holding what he described as an “illegal convention.” 

    He stressed that the PDP must uphold judicial processes to regain public trust.

    Wike accused the faction of ignoring two substantive Federal High Court judgments on the matter, yet proceeding with their convention and later approaching a State High Court to seek recognition.

    Wike said, “You went to a State High Court to sue INEC, asking that the convention must take place, and you got an ex-parte order to override judgments of the Federal High Court. How do you disobey two final judgments and still claim leadership?” 

    He further stated that the same group returned to another court, seeking validation after failing to comply with lawful rulings.

    “You had the convention without obeying the court, and now you are back asking a Federal High Court to recognize you. If INEC already recognizes you, what exactly are you going to court for?” he asked.

    READ ALSO; By 2026, countries will be borrowing from Nigeria— First Lady declares

    The FCT Minister warned that such actions could jeopardize the future of the party, stressing that leaders must not allow selfish interests to destroy the political platform that has existed since 1998.

    “We must not allow our party to die. Leadership requires commitment and honesty, not propaganda. If we don’t respect our own laws, how do we earn respect from Nigerians?” Wike stated.

    He called on party faithful to support lawful leadership and unite to rebuild the PDP in line with democratic principles and judicial integrity.

    Meanwhile, the National Executive Committee (NEC) of the PDP has been urged to constitute a Caretaker Committee to guide the party forward as the tenure of the current National Working Committee expires tomorrow. 

    Addressing the 104th meeting of the party, the BoT Chairman, Senator Mao Ohuabunwa, emphasized that the transition plan aligns with the party constitution and is meant to ensure administrative continuity, unity, and stability across all structures of the party.

    Ohuabunwa said the move is one of several measures designed to consolidate internal reforms, restore confidence among members, and strengthen compliance with the rule of law. 

    The BoT also highlighted the ongoing establishment of caretaker leadership in certain states and zones — such as Anambra and the South-East — where congresses could not be held earlier, describing these efforts as necessary to prevent leadership gaps and enhance party organization.