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  • Obidient Movement declares alignment with ADC in Delta

    Obidient Movement declares alignment with ADC in Delta

    • …as leaders call for unity, good governance

    The Obidient Movement in Delta State has officially declared its alignment with the African Democratic Congress (ADC) at a landmark political gathering in Asaba, marking a significant shift toward structured political participation.

    The movement formed around Peter Obi’s 2023 presidential candidacy (Labour Party), with supporters — Obidients —driven by a desire for a fundamental, positive change in leadership in Nigeria through principles of competence, integrity, and good governance.

    The declaration was formally announced by the Delta State Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, Hon. Favour Emerure, before an audience that included national and state ADC leaders, youth and women representatives, movement members, and supporters from across Nigeria and the diaspora.

    Speakers described the event as the beginning of a new political era founded on unity, integrity, and people-centred leadership.

    Welcoming participants, ADC Delta State Chairman, Engr. Okolie C. Austine said the integration of the Obidient Movement signalled a new chapter in Delta State politics. He described the movement as a powerful force that had reshaped political consciousness and strengthened public demand for accountability and responsible governance

    He noted that members were being received as full stakeholders within the party.

    Emerure emphasised that the Obidient Movement remained an organic, grassroots initiative rooted in civic engagement and youth participation.

    He said the alignment with the ADC does not represent a loss of identity but a strategic move to institutionalise the movement’s mission of delivering good governance through responsible leadership and political organisation.

    The national/global coordinator of the Obidient Movement, Yunusa Tanko, described the declaration as a major milestone, reaffirming the movement’s commitment to credibility, accountability, and service to the Nigerian people over personal political interests.

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    ADC national leaders welcomed the development, with National Youth Leader, Balarabe Rufai, praising the movement’s role in mobilising young people and deepening political awareness, while the National Women Leader, Hon. Naomi Lasara Abel, called for unity, inclusion, and stronger participation of women in leadership and decision-making within the party.

    The event also featured remarks by Prof. Pat Utomi and Mr. Peter Obi, who urged continued unity, ethical leadership, and a renewed national vision anchored on competence, accountability, and economic productivity.

    Obi emphasised the need for collective action to rebuild Nigeria’s economy, strengthen security, and improve governance outcomes, while Utomi urged political actors to work together to rescue the country through shared values and collaboration.

    Throughout the event, speakers emphasised that the alignment represented a strategic partnership aimed at transforming civic activism into structured political participation capable of influencing governance.

    Leaders expressed confidence that the alliance would strengthen ADC’s grassroots presence, expand youth and women participation, and create a united platform for political change in Delta State and beyond.

    Participants concluded the ceremony with a collective call for unity, democratic engagement, and continued efforts toward building a more inclusive and accountable Nigeria.

  • Akpabio endorses ARISE with renewed hope initiative ahead of 2027 elections

    Akpabio endorses ARISE with renewed hope initiative ahead of 2027 elections

    President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has formally endorsed the ARISE With Renewed Hope Initiative, describing it as his political structure and machinery for the 2027 general elections in Akwa Ibom State.

    Akpabio made the announcement in Abuja over the weekend during a visit by the leadership of the Initiative, according to a statement by his media aide, Jackson Udom.

    He described the engagement as historic, noting that it marked a defining moment for political unity in the state.

    According to the Senate President, the emergence of the ARISE With Renewed Hope Initiative signals stability, preparedness, and electoral victory for the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Akwa Ibom.

    “With this group, Akwa Ibom State is secure and ready for the elections. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Umo Eno, and I will work with this group to achieve its objectives,” Akpabio said.

    He expressed confidence that the state would record unprecedented outcomes for the APC, adding, “Akwa Ibom State will be the first in Nigeria to return President Bola Tinubu with massive votes.

    The state will re-elect Governor Umo Eno, and I will also be overwhelmingly returned. What Governor Umo Eno has done in uniting us is divinely ordained and guarantees a brighter future for Akwa Ibom and Nigeria.”

    Governor Umo Eno, in his remarks, described the Initiative as the foremost political structure in the state, reflecting the unity and collective strength of Akwa Ibom people under the APC.

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    He noted that the group represents the consolidation of key political forces in the state, with Akpabio reaffirmed as its leader with a strong, enduring base.

    He added that the Initiative comprises major political figures across the state, all united by a shared purpose to support the APC’s agenda.

    Earlier, the President-General of the ARISE With Renewed Hope Initiative, Engr. Uwem Okoko, said the visit aimed to formally present the Initiative to the Senate President, following its earlier presentation to Governor Eno.

    He emphasised that the group’s mission remains clear and unwavering in supporting political cohesion and the APC’s objectives in Akwa Ibom State.

    “Our mission is victory for the APC in 2027. Akwa Ibom State is firmly and overwhelmingly APC, marching towards successful re-election victories for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Senator Godswill Akpabio, and Governor Umo Eno.

    He praised President Tinubu for the ongoing reforms across the country and pledged that Akwa Ibom State would deliver bloc votes—the highest in Nigeria—during the elections. He also reaffirmed total support for Governor Umo Eno’s ARISE Agenda and his second-term ambition.

    In his remarks, the Chairman, Board of Trustees of the Group, Sir Victor Antai, said history was being made with the gathering of political leaders to chart a united course for the re-election of President Tinubu, Senator Akpabio and Governor Umo Eno.

    He described the Group as a coalition of leaders with deep grassroots capacity, positioned to drive massive mobilisation for the APC across all levels.

    The high point of the visit was the presentation of the official regalia of the Group to Akpabio by the President General, Engr. Okoko, and the Chairman, BoT, Dr Antai, who formally accepted his role as the Grand Patron of the Group.

  • Why musical artistes must take responsibility for poor sound at concerts — Peter David

    Why musical artistes must take responsibility for poor sound at concerts — Peter David

    Poor sound quality at live concerts is often blamed on sound engineers or equipment providers, but music production expert Peter Sunday David said the ultimate responsibility lies with artistes and their management teams.

    According to David Peter Sunday, who has handled over 2,000 professional live events across concerts and orchestral productions and has also served as a band leader for Nigerian superstar Tekno from 2016 to date, audiences interact solely with performers and are largely unaware of the technical chain behind a show. As a result, accountability naturally falls on the artiste’s camp.

    “The audience does not know the sound supplier or the engineer. They only know the artiste,” David said. “It is therefore the responsibility of the artiste and their management to engage competent professionals and supervise the entire technical process before, during, and after performances.”

    He noted that many sound-related failures at live events are rooted in poor preparation rather than technical limitations.

    According to him, event organisers and artistes often prioritise cost over competence, opting for cheaper technical teams without proper vetting or planning.

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    “Poor preparation remains the biggest issue,” he said. “Many organisers fail to assemble the right technical team or carry out proper planning, projections, and post-event reviews. Settling for the cheapest option instead of the best frequently compromises quality.”

    David also challenged the growing belief that acquiring expensive equipment automatically guarantees superior sound. He explained that sound system design plays a far more critical role in determining output quality.

    “Equipment alone does not guarantee quality,” he said. “Sound system design requires technical understanding, planning, and creativity. Without proper system integration and acoustic planning, even the most expensive equipment will underperform.”

    He added that many production companies invest heavily in branded gear without sufficient knowledge of how to deploy it effectively, resulting in distorted sound, poor balance, and unsatisfactory audience experiences.

  • CAC delisted over 400,000 inactive companies in 2025 — Registrar General

    CAC delisted over 400,000 inactive companies in 2025 — Registrar General

    The Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) says it delisted more than 400,000 companies in 2025 for failing to file annual returns and remaining inactive, describing the development as a necessary step to protect the economy.

    Registrar General of the commission, Hussaini Ishaq Magaji, SAN, disclosed this in Abuja during a commemorative walk marking the CAC’s 35th anniversary.

    Magaji said the exercise was a major milestone for the commission, which was established in 1991, noting that the anniversary offered an opportunity to reflect on its progress and challenges over the years.

    He said the delisting of inactive entities was part of ongoing reforms aimed at strengthening the corporate registry and improving the business environment.

    According to him, the commission has evolved from manual processes to fully digital operations, enabling it to provide services around the clock.

    “The idea is to position CAC as a world-class organisation. Expectations are high, and the commission has come a long way and is striving to go higher,” he said.

    He noted that the anniversary walk symbolised the agency’s growth and the commitment of its staff, adding that teamwork and resilience had driven the commission’s achievements over the years.

    Magaji said the CAC had made significant strides in promoting ease of doing business, especially through the digitisation of its services, which allows business registration to be completed from any location.

    He added that the commission is now fully digitalised, providing end-to-end services on a 24-hour basis.

    In collaboration with other agencies, the Registrar General said the CAC’s partnership with the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN) had produced positive results.

    He said the joint initiative had enabled the registration of 250 micro, small, and medium enterprises at no cost, as part of efforts to support business growth.

    Magaji also said the commission remained committed to staff welfare, noting that several measures had been introduced to improve working conditions and support employees.

  • NLC warns of mass action over failure to add electronic transmission of election results

    NLC warns of mass action over failure to add electronic transmission of election results

    The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has warned of possible mass action and election boycotts over “confusion and contradictory positions” by the Senate on amendments to the Electoral Act, particularly regarding the electronic transmission of election results.

    It accused the Senate of undermining public confidence in Nigeria’s electoral process by failing to clearly state whether electronic transmission of results would be mandatory.

    NLC’s position is contained in a statement signed by its President, Joe Ajaero, on Sunday in Abuja.

    According to the NLC, the lack of clarity surrounding the Senate’s final decision threatens electoral integrity and public trust, stressing that Nigerians deserve a transparent system where votes are not only counted but seen to be counted.

    The NLC added that the path to the 2027 elections must be built on certainty, not confusion.

    The statement said, “The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) expresses deep concern over the confusion and contradictory narratives emerging from the Senate regarding the amendment to the 2022 Electoral Act, particularly on electronic transmission of results. This lack of clarity undermines public trust and is deeply troubling for our democracy. The Nigerian people deserve a transparent electoral process where their votes are not only counted but seen to be counted. We urge the Senate to provide an immediate, official, and unambiguous account of its proceedings and final decisions.

    “Public records suggest the proposed amendment to mandate INEC to transmit results electronically in real-time was not adopted, with the existing discretionary provision retained. This has generated nationwide apprehension, and subsequent explanations have only added to the confusion. At a critical juncture following the 2023 elections, such legislative ambiguity risks institutionalising doubt at the heart of our electoral integrity and echoes past controversies that have caused national distress.

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    “Therefore, the NLC demands immediate clarity and transparency. The Senate must issue a definitive statement on the exact provisions passed, clarifying the final wording and rationale. The National Assembly leadership must also ensure the harmonisation process produces a final bill with crystal-clear provisions; any ambiguity in the transmission and collation of results is a disservice to our democracy.

    “We call on the Senate to restore legislative credibility by ensuring its processes are transparent and its outcomes clear. The amended Act must provide an unambiguous mandate for INEC to electronically transmit and collate results from polling units in real-time. The path to the 2027 elections must be built on certainty, not confusion.”

    The NLC insisted that the amended Electoral Act must provide a clear mandate compelling INEC to electronically transmit and collate results from polling units in real time, warning that failure to do so could trigger mass action.

    “Nigerian workers and citizens are watching closely. The NLC is working within its networks to advocate for clarity and integrity. We will not stand by while the trust of Nigerians is betrayed again and the clarity of our electoral laws is compromised.

    “Failure to add electronic transmission in real-time will lead to mass action before, during, and after the election or total boycott of the Election. Our nation must choose the path of clarity and integrity.

    “We need to avoid the same confusion that trailed the new Tax Acts. The time for honest, people-focused legislation is now,” the statement added.

  • Tinubu, wife to visit UK in March on state invitation from King Charles III

    Tinubu, wife to visit UK in March on state invitation from King Charles III

    • …First Nigerian leader to pay UK state visit in 37 years
    • …King Charles, Queen Camilla to host President, First Lady at Windsor Castle

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his wife, First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu, will pay a state visit to the United Kingdom from March 18 to 19, 2026, following an invitation by King Charles III.

    The visit, which will take place at Windsor Castle, will be the first state visit by a Nigerian leader to the UK in 37 years.

    The confirmation was made public on Sunday by the British Royal Family via its verified X handle, @RoyalFamily, and later echoed by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, on his verified account, @aonanuga1956.

    In its announcement, the Royal Family stated: “The President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Mr. Bola Ahmed Tinubu, accompanied by the First Lady, Mrs. Oluremi Tinubu, has accepted an invitation from His Majesty The King to pay a State Visit to the United Kingdom from Wednesday, 18th March to Thursday, 19th March 2026. The King and Queen will host the State Visit at Windsor Castle.”

    Onanuga, confirming the development, described it as a historic milestone in Nigeria-UK relations.

    “First state visit of a Nigerian leader to the UK in 37 years confirmed. President Tinubu and First Lady Remi Tinubu to be hosted by King Charles and Queen Camilla from 18th March to 19th March 2026,” he wrote.

    The United Kingdom Mission in Nigeria has confirmed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will undertake a State Visit to the UK from March 18 to 19, 2026, marking the first such visit by a Nigerian leader in 37 years.

    In a statement posted on its official X handle on Sunday, the UK Mission disclosed that President Tinubu, will be accompanied by the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, and will be hosted by King Charles III and Queen Camilla at Windsor Castle.

    “The President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Mr. Bola Ahmed Tinubu, accompanied by the First Lady, Mrs. Oluremi Tinubu, has accepted an invitation from His Majesty The King to pay a State Visit to the United Kingdom from Wednesday, 18th March to Thursday, 19th March 2026.

    “This historic visit provides an opportunity to further strengthen the enduring partnership between our two nations.

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    “The King and Queen will host the State Visit at Windsor Castle,” the UK Mission in Nigeria wrote.

    The announcement signals a major diplomatic engagement between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, and is expected to further strengthen ties between both countries, particularly in areas of trade, investment, security cooperation, and cultural exchange.

    State visits are regarded as the highest form of diplomatic engagement between nations, typically involving formal ceremonies and high-level bilateral discussions.

    Further details of the itinerary and official engagements during the two-day visit are expected to be released in the coming weeks.

  • Dafinone hails Tonlagha at 50, praises patriotism, philanthropy

    Dafinone hails Tonlagha at 50, praises patriotism, philanthropy

    Senator Ede Dafinone (Delta Central) has felicitated the Chairman of Maton Engineering Limited, Engr. Matthew Tonlagha, on his 50th birthday, describing the milestone as a celebration of “a life lived with intentionality, purpose, and an unwavering commitment to the advancement of our people.”

    In a goodwill message to mark the golden jubilee, Senator Dafinone said Tonlagha’s attainment of 50 years was “a testament to the grace of God,” noting that the engineer’s journey reflects excellence beyond professional accomplishments. 

    According to the Delta Central lawmaker: “your professional trajectory is distinguished not only by technical excellence but by a profound sense of patriotism,” adding that Tonlagha has consistently demonstrated commitment to national and regional development.

    The lawmaker particularly commended Tonlagha’s role as a key stakeholder in the Niger Delta, praising his efforts in fostering peace and stability in the region. “As a stakeholder in the Niger Delta, your dedication to peace-building and regional stability has been exemplary,” Dafinone said, stressing that such interventions are critical to sustainable development and harmony in the oil-producing region.

    Dafinone also applauded Tonlagha’s philanthropic record, describing it as impactful and far-reaching. He noted that “your philanthropic interventions have provided a lifeline to many, demonstrating a rare spirit of selflessness and a deep-seated empathy for the underserved.”

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    He said: “I extend my sincere congratulations to the Chairman of Maton Engineering Limited, Engr. Matthew Tonlagha, as he marks the landmark occasion of his 50th birthday. Reaching this golden jubilee is a testament to the grace of God and a life lived with intentionality, purpose, and an unwavering commitment to the advancement of our people.

    “Your professional trajectory is distinguished not only by technical excellence but by a profound sense of patriotism. As a stakeholder in the Niger Delta, your dedication to peace-building and regional stability has been exemplary. 

    “Your philanthropic interventions have provided a lifeline to many, demonstrating a rare spirit of selflessness and a deep-seated empathy for the underserved. You have proven that true leadership is measured by the number of lives uplifted and the legacies of kindness established along the way.

    “As you enter this new chapter of your life, I pray that the Almighty grants you increased wisdom, divine health, and the strength to continue your noble work. May your contributions to the Niger Delta and Nigeria at large continue to flourish, and may your future be filled with the same grace and distinction that have characterized your first fifty years.”

  • Governor Uba Sani mobilises clerics, media on peace drive ahead of Ramadan

    Governor Uba Sani mobilises clerics, media on peace drive ahead of Ramadan

    Governor Uba Sani has mobilized Islamic clerics, media organizations, and digital platforms to deploy the coming Ramadan as a force for peace, tolerance, and national cohesion.

    Governor Uba Sani, represented by the Secretary to the Kaduna State Government, Dr. Mu’azu Meyare, at the 2026 Annual Pre-Ramadan Meeting organised by Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI) at its National Headquarters in Kaduna, stressed that Nigeria’s prevailing economic, security and social challenges have heightened the responsibility of religious leaders and the media to guide public discourse with wisdom, restraint, and compassion.

    The Governor urged Ulamas to ensure that Tafsir sessions and other Ramadan enlightenment programmes consistently promote unity, peaceful coexistence, social justice, and care for the vulnerable.

    He noted that Ramadan, a sacred month of mercy, discipline, and renewal, offers a unique platform to reinforce values of sadaqa, patriotism, and prayers for the nation and its leaders, adding that sincere supplication during the holy month remains vital to national healing.

    The Governor further appealed to radio, television, and social media platforms to uphold the highest standards of professionalism in the transmission of Tafsir and religious content, cautioning against messages capable of inciting tension or division. He reminded participants that service to humanity remains one of the highest forms of worship in Islam.

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    Highlighting Kaduna State’s commitment to inclusive governance, the Governor said the administration’s interfaith framework has helped sustain relative peace and understanding among people of different religious beliefs.

    He reaffirmed government support for religious education and dialogue and pledged continued partnership with JNI and other faith-based institutions.

    The Kaduna State Government reiterated its readiness to work closely with religious leaders and the media to deepen tolerance, strengthen unity, and ensure a peaceful, spiritually enriching Ramadan season.

    The meeting was chaired by His Highness, the Shehu of Borno, Alhaji Dr. Abubakar Ibn Umar Garba Abba Kiyari El-Kanemi, who led deliberations focused on responsible preaching, religious harmony, and the preservation of peace during and beyond Ramadan.

    The JNI Pre-Ramadan Meeting drew eminent personalities from across the country, including traditional rulers, respected Islamic scholars, and community leaders, underscoring the national significance of the forum in shaping religious discourse ahead of Ramadan.

  • Senate committee commends Tinubu on launch of National Halal Economy strategy

    Senate committee commends Tinubu on launch of National Halal Economy strategy

    The Senate Committee on Finance has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for launching Nigeria’s National Halal Economy Strategy, describing it as a bold and strategic move to position the country within the lucrative global halal market, estimated at $7.7 trillion.

    In a statement signed by its Chairman, Senator Sani Musa, the committee praised the initiative as timely and aligned with international best practices.

    Several countries—including the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Malaysia, Indonesia, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Turkey, Brazil, Thailand, and Singapore—have successfully used halal frameworks to boost manufacturing, agricultural exports, financial markets, and foreign investment.

    The committee highlighted Nigeria’s strong advantages for success in this space, including its vast agricultural resources, large domestic market, youthful population, growing manufacturing sector, and expanding services industry.

    It noted that the strategy fits seamlessly into the Tinubu administration’s broader economic reforms, such as boosting non-oil revenue, diversifying exports, creating jobs, supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs), and increasing foreign exchange earnings.

    President Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, officially unveiled the strategy on Thursday, February 6, 2026, at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.

    The framework, developed in collaboration with Saudi Arabia’s Halal Products Development Company (HPDC) following a bilateral agreement signed in February 2025 at the Makkah Halal Forum, aims to enhance quality standards, certification processes, and competitiveness across sectors like food, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, tourism, and ethical finance.

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    The committee described the strategy as inclusive, market-driven, and globally oriented, while fully respecting Nigeria’s diverse and pluralistic society.

    It is projected to contribute significantly to the economy, with estimates suggesting it could add around $1.5 billion to Nigeria’s GDP by 2027 and unlock billions more in domestic value over the coming decade through expanded exports and investment.

    Senator Musa pledged full legislative support, oversight, and cooperation to ensure smooth implementation, regulatory clarity, and long-term fiscal sustainability in the national interest.

    “This decisive step reinforces Nigeria’s readiness to adopt proven international models, unlock new economic frontiers, and establish itself as a competitive player in the evolving global economy,” the statement concluded.

  • Police probe alleged defilement of six-year-old girl by 65-year-old man in Ibadan

    Police probe alleged defilement of six-year-old girl by 65-year-old man in Ibadan

    The Oyo State Police Command said it has begun a probe into the alleged defilement of a six-year-old girl (name withheld) by a 65-year-old man, Ibrahim Raheem, in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital.

    A statement by the spokesman of the Command, Ayanlade Olayinka, said operatives of the Command are currently investigating the distressing case of the attempted defilement.

    According to the report, the victim was allegedly coerced and indecently assaulted multiple times throughout December 2025 while she was hawking at Onikeke, Ayegun area, Ibadan.

    The police spokesman said, “The alleged perpetrator, identified as 65-year-old Ibrahim Raheem, has been apprehended and has since confessed to indecently abusing the child, though he denied engaging in carnal knowledge.

    “Following the discovery of these acts, the victim was immediately taken to a hospital for comprehensive medical examination and socio-psychological care to address the trauma of the ordeal.

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    “Recognizing the gravity of the offense, the Commissioner of Police, Oyo State Police Command, Femi Haruna, has directed that the case be transferred promptly to the Command’s specialized Gender Desk for a discreet and professional investigation.

    “This move ensures that the matter is handled with the sensitivity required for crimes involving minors and sexual violence.

    “The Oyo State Police Command remains steadfast in its commitment to protecting vulnerable children and ensuring that perpetrators of such heinous acts are brought to justice.

    “Consequently, members of the public are encouraged to continue providing credible information that aids the Police in safeguarding lives, upholding the rule of law, and maintaining a secure environment for all residents of the state.”