Ibrahim idris former governor of kogi state.

I’m Alive and Strong Actor Itele Finally Speaks as Sickbed Rumours, Emotional Video Trend Online

Nollywood actor and filmmaker Ibrahim Yekini, popularly known as Itele D Icon, has broken his silence following viral rumours that he was critically ill and confined to a sickbed. The rumours gained traction after an emotional video surfaced online showing his colleague, Kemity, crying and claiming the actor could no longer walk. Addressing the claims in a fresh video, Itele reassured fans that he is hale, healthy, and actively working. He clarified that the viral clip was recorded years ago during a previous illness and urged the public to ignore fake news spread for attention. His response brought relief to colleagues and fans across the entertainment industry.

#IteleDIcon, #NollywoodNews, #FakeNews

BREAKING: Former President Olusegun Obasanjo on Monday met ex-military ruler Gen. Ibrahim Babangida (retd.) in Minna, Niger State, in a closed-door meeting amid growing political permutations ahead of the 2027 elections.

The brief meeting, held at Babangida’s hilltop residence, has sparked speculation about opposition realignment and emerging coalitions, including talks around Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso. Both leaders have remained silent on the visit.

#BreakingNews #Obasanjo #IBB #NigeriaPolitics #2027Elections

Zamfara Attack: Terrorists Ambush Troops, Kill Five Soldiers, Police Inspector

At least five Nigerian soldiers and a police inspector, Aliyu Ibrahim of 1 PMF Kaduna, were killed after terrorists ambushed security personnel travelling to Gusau in Zamfara State. The attack occurred near Gidan Goni village, Kwatarkwashi LGA, while the officers were on pass. Several others sustained injuries and were rushed to Yeriman Bakura Specialist Hospital. Authorities have urged residents to remain calm as investigations continue amid rising insecurity in the North-West.

#ZamfaraAttack #BreakingNews #NigeriaInsecurity #Banditry #OperationFansanYamma #SecurityCrisis

Ibrahim Chatta Shows Off Lavish Interior of Thatched House with 4+ ACs and more …….

Veteran Nollywood actor Ibrahim Chatta has set social media buzzing after sharing a video tour of the interior of his thatched house at his Africhatta Film Village and resort. The house, built as part of the film village project, features a high-security door, tiled floors, expensive furnishings and more than four air conditioners, blending traditional design with modern comfort. Chatta said the structure is a prototype for future builds at the site. Fans and colleagues have since flooded his comments with praise for the lavish and surprising setup. #fintternews

BREAKING: Police Inspector’s Accidental Gunshot Kills Colleague, Injures Another in Rivers State

Tragedy struck in Rivers State on Sunday as a Nigerian police inspector, Victor Okus, accidentally discharged his firearm inside a vehicle, shooting two fellow officers during a transit from Life Camp to their quarters. The incident occurred around 1:00pm in Port Harcourt while the officers were travelling together. Both victims, attached to 14 PMF Yola, were rushed to Nobsams Hospital, where Inspector Ibrahim Sani was confirmed dead, while Inspector Daniel Dauda is receiving treatment. Okus, attached to Hintex Logistics under 19 PMF, has been disarmed, detained, and declared a defaulter as investigations continue.

#BreakingNews #NigeriaPolice #RiversState

Massive Crowd in Katsina as Over 3 Million Tijaniyya Faithful Attend 40th National Maulud

Millions of Tijaniyya followers from Nigeria and other African countries converged on Katsina State for the 40th National Maulud in honour of Sheikh Ibrahim Nyass. Held at the Muhammadu Dikko Stadium, the event filled the venue to capacity, spilling onto surrounding roads as worshippers arrived early. Religious leaders and government officials offered prayers for peace, unity and stability in Katsina and Nigeria. The gathering also boosted local businesses, with traders recording high sales as visitors flooded the city.

#KatsinaMaulud #Tijaniyya #NigeriaNews

Oyo Police Rescue 60-Year-Old Kidnap Victim, Arrest Four Suspects

The Oyo State Police Command successfully rescued Isiaku Saidu, a 60-year-old man abducted in Iseyin, and Hussinat Abubakar, another kidnap victim in Itesiwaju LGA, without ransom payments.

Four suspected kidnappers, including Kari Ibrahim (22), Dure Jimoh (25), and Abubakar Sidi (55), were arrested, with one suspect neutralized during a gun duel. The police recovered six expended cartridges and urged the public to report anyone with gunshot injuries.

Police said the operations underscore the command’s determination to rescue victims promptly and discourage ransom payments, while investigations continue to apprehend other syndicate members.

Wahala Don Set for Ipele! Youths Accuse Monarch of Hosting Gunmen Before Police Station Was Attacked

Wahala don really set for Ipele town in Ondo State as angry youths have petitioned Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, accusing their traditional ruler, the Olupele of Ipele, Oba Samuel Oluwashola Adesanmi Daramola, of harbouring hooded gunmen who allegedly fired shots inside his palace just hours before the Ipele Police Station was attacked and burnt.

In a strongly worded petition dated January 2026 and sent to the Governor’s Office, the concerned youths said they were alarmed by what they described as the monarch’s conduct, which they believe is threatening peace and security in the community.

The youths first praised the state government for its intervention after the New Year’s Eve attack on the Ipele Police Station on December 31, 2025. But they warned that deeper issues within the town, allegedly linked to the palace, could make things worse if urgent action is not taken.

According to the petition, the Olupele has barely stayed in Ipele since he was crowned over a year ago, frequently travelling to Lagos and the United Kingdom, where he lived before becoming king. The youths said this absence has weakened traditional leadership and damaged cooperation between the community and security agencies.

They further alleged that the monarch is constantly at war with local youths and even elites in the diaspora, creating tension and slowing down the town’s socio-economic development. “Kabiyesi is not at peace with the majority of youths,” the petitioners claimed, adding that he often quarrels with people he sees as enemies.

The youths also raised allegations of financial misconduct, accusing the monarch of removing or suspending chiefs without clear reasons and being overly interested in money matters. They cited a case where a ₦1 million donation meant for electricity restoration was allegedly diverted to a project that residents cannot verify.

Market disputes were also mentioned. The petition said the Olupele was recently attacked at Joks Market after allegedly trying to take over revenue collection, a role normally handled by the local government. His agents were also accused of collecting money from tipper drivers, nearly leading to violent clashes.

More disturbing allegations followed. The youths claimed that a young woman accused the monarch of impregnating her and pressuring her to abort the pregnancy, allegedly out of fear that his wife in the UK would react violently. They insisted that “cogent evidence is available.”

But the most explosive accusation was about security. The youths alleged that the monarch parades armed men, fires gunshots inside his palace whenever he is in town, and has previously used gunmen to threaten residents. They said a matter involving these armed men is already under investigation at the office of the Assistant Inspector General of Police in Akure.

They further claimed that during a palace party on the night of December 31, 2025, hooded gunmen were allegedly firing shots “at the pleasure of the kabiyesi.” Shockingly, about two hours later, armed men reportedly stormed and set the Ipele Police Station ablaze.

To many in the town, the timing raised serious questions.

The New Year’s Eve attack, carried out by about 20 to 30 gunmen using rifles and explosives, left the police station badly damaged and threw the community into panic. Residents fled their homes, church services were disrupted, and fear spread across Ipele, although no casualties were recorded.

The youths described the monarch’s alleged actions as “unbecoming of a first-class Oba in Ondo State” and appealed to Governor Aiyedatiwa to urgently order a discreet but full-scale investigation into the matter. They also asked that the Olupele be cautioned to prevent further breakdown of law and order.

The petition was signed by Ibrahim Japheth and Olorunfunmi Oladotun on behalf of the Concerned Youths of Ipele, with copies sent to the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, the police, DSS, and other security agencies.

As Nigerians digest these shocking claims, one thing is clear:
This matter no be small one. If even half of these allegations be true, then wahala don truly set for Ipele—and Ondo State government must act fast before things spoil pass this.

Did a Detainee Die Unlawfully in NSCDC Custody? Kano Command Removes Fagge Divisional Officer as Police Launch Investigation Into Custodial Death

Did the death of a suspect inside a security facility point to deeper issues of accountability within Nigeria’s law enforcement system? The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Kano State has removed the Divisional Officer in charge of the Fagge office after a suspect reportedly died while in custody, triggering a formal investigation and public scrutiny.

According to the NSCDC’s spokesperson, Ibrahim Abdullahi, the officer in charge, SC Amina Musa Kolawale, was relieved of her position following the incident. All officers and personnel who were on duty at the time of the suspect’s death have also been handed over to the Nigerian Police, Kano State Command, for further investigation and possible disciplinary or legal action.

The NSCDC Commandant in Kano, Mohammed Hassan Agalama, approved the removal after setting up a panel of inquiry to conduct what the agency described as a discreet, fair, and impartial investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death. A new divisional head, CSC Bashir Isa Abubakar, has since been appointed to take over leadership at the Fagge office.

In a public appeal, the NSCDC urged residents to remain calm, reaffirming its commitment to the sanctity of life, human rights, professionalism, standard operating procedures, integrity, and the rule of law. The Corps stressed that it would not shield any officer found culpable and that accountability would guide the outcome of the probe.

The case has reignited concerns about custodial deaths in Nigeria, the treatment of suspects, and whether security agencies are doing enough to ensure due process and protection of fundamental rights. As investigations proceed under police oversight, many Nigerians are asking critical questions: What caused the suspect’s death? Were proper procedures followed? And will this action mark a turning point for transparency and reform within the security services?

Jigawa Court Orders Arrest of DSS Officer Over Alleged Abduction, Sexual Exploitation, and Forced Conversion of 16-Year-Old Girl

A Magistrate Court sitting in Hadejia, Jigawa State, has ordered the arrest of a serving officer of Nigeria’s Department of State Services (DSS), Ifeanyi Festus, over allegations of child abduction, sexual exploitation, unlawful detention, and forcible religious conversion involving a 16-year-old girl, Walida Abdulhadi.

The directive was issued by His Worship, Sadisu Musa Esq., in Suit No: DCC/01/2026, following a petition filed by Abuja-based law firm Gamji Lawchain on behalf of Walida’s father, Alhaji Abdulhadi Ibrahim. The court ordered the Jigawa State Commissioner of Police or senior DSS officials to arrest the officer and discreetly investigate the allegations under Sections 125 and 102(5) of the Jigawa State Administration of Criminal Justice Law (ACJL). It also directed the DSS to immediately release and reunite the girl with her parents.

According to the petition dated January 4, 2026, Walida was allegedly abducted from Hadejia over two years ago when she was still a minor and legally incapable of consenting to any sexual relationship. The family reportedly searched for her for years, and the prolonged trauma is said to have contributed to the death of her mother.

The case reportedly resurfaced on January 1, 2026, when the accused officer allegedly contacted the girl’s father, claiming Walida had been living with him, had given birth to his child, and that he was now prepared to marry her. When a family representative was sent to Abuja, he was allegedly taken to a DSS facility at Karmajiji, where officials reportedly confirmed that Walida had been living within the DSS estate. Requests for her release were allegedly refused.

The petition further claims that while under this custody, the teenager was allegedly converted from Islam to Christianity without parental consent and subjected to sexual exploitation that resulted in pregnancy and childbirth while she was still underage. The lawyers alleged that the acts could not have occurred without the knowledge or tacit approval of other officers, describing the matter as potential institutional complicity rather than isolated misconduct.

In its ruling, the court emphasized the need for immediate investigation and ordered that Walida be released and reunited with her family. The case has since generated widespread public attention, raising serious questions about child protection, abuse of power, religious freedom, and accountability within Nigeria’s security agencies.

Jigawa Court Orders Arrest of DSS Officer Over Alleged Crimes Against Minor, Directs Police Investigation

A Magistrate Court in Hadejia, Jigawa State, has ordered the arrest of a Department of State Services (DSS) officer, Ifeanyi Festus, and directed the Nigeria Police Force to investigate alleged offences against a minor, following a petition filed by Abdulhadi Ibrahim. The court’s order, issued in Suit No: DCC/01/2026 and signed by His Worship Sadisu Musa Esq., signals the seriousness of the allegations and underscores the judiciary’s commitment to protecting vulnerable citizens.

The application for the arrest and investigation was moved by Mr. Kabiru Adamu Esq., alongside Babangida Garba Esq., acting as counsel to the applicant. They urged the court to invoke its powers under Section 125 and Section 102(5) of the Administration of Criminal Justice Law (ACJL) to compel immediate action against the DSS officer.

In granting the application, the court directed the Commissioner of Police, Jigawa State Police Command, or the Deputy Director-General of the DSS to arrest the respondent. It also specifically mandated the Nigeria Police Force, Jigawa State Command, to conduct a discreet investigation into the alleged offences.

The court further issued an urgent directive to the DSS to immediately release the victim, identified as Walida Abdulhadi, and reunite her with her parents, emphasizing the protection of the minor as a matter of priority. The ruling highlights the legal mechanisms available to hold security personnel accountable when allegations of misconduct arise, even against agencies with high-level authority like the DSS.

Observers say the case raises critical questions about accountability, child protection, and oversight of security agencies in Nigeria. It also demonstrates the judiciary’s willingness to intervene in sensitive matters involving minors and ensure adherence to the law, regardless of the accused’s position or rank.

As of the time of reporting, there has been no official statement from the DSS or the Jigawa State Police Command regarding the implementation of the arrest or investigation orders. Legal analysts suggest that swift compliance with the court’s directives will be a litmus test for both the DSS and police in upholding justice in cases involving vulnerable citizens.

The case continues to attract public attention, underlining the growing demand for transparency, rule of law, and protection of minors in Nigeria’s criminal justice system.

Will Wike Have to Bow to Fubara in APC? Why the Party Says the FCT Minister Must Follow Rivers Governor—and What This Power Shift Means for 2027 Politics

Is Nyesom Wike’s political influence in Rivers State finally being clipped? If the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister decides to join the All Progressives Congress (APC), will he really be forced to operate under his successor, Governor Siminalayi Fubara? And what does this internal power struggle reveal about the battle for 2027?

The APC has made its position unmistakably clear: if Wike defects to the ruling party, he will not assume a dominant leadership role over the sitting Rivers State governor. According to the party’s Director of Information, Bala Ibrahim, leadership within the APC is tied strictly to current political office—not past power. While Wike would be “given a position” within the party, Ibrahim stressed that he would “certainly be under” Governor Fubara, who currently holds the highest elective office in Rivers State.

Why such a firm stance? Ibrahim explained that political authority follows office, not personality. “When he was the governor, he was followed. Now that he’s not the governor, he must follow,” he said, underscoring that once a leader vacates a seat, they no longer retain its power. In other words, past influence cannot override present authority in the APC’s hierarchy.

But is this just about party protocol—or something deeper? Reports suggest that Wike’s alleged efforts to undermine Fubara’s 2027 re-election bid have suffered a major blow. Several APC governors are said to have rallied behind Fubara, signaling growing support for the Rivers governor at the highest levels of the party. Party sources indicate that renewed tensions between the two men were triggered after top APC figures openly endorsed Fubara for a second term—an outcome Wike is reportedly opposed to.

What changed inside the APC? Insiders say the party leadership has become increasingly impressed with Fubara’s governance style and development projects, earning him favor among key decision-makers. This apparent shift in loyalty is being interpreted as a strategic move to consolidate power around the sitting governor while weakening Wike’s influence in his home state.

The conflict reportedly deepened when Wike’s allies attempted to push a preferred candidate for the Imo governorship without consulting the APC Governors’ Chairman, Governor Hope Uzodimma. Party officials claim this move backfired, prompting APC governors to close ranks around Fubara as part of a broader effort to curb Wike’s political reach. Some insiders even suggest that powerful figures within the Tinubu administration no longer see Wike as a favored ally.

So what does this mean going forward? If Wike eventually joins the APC, he may find himself navigating a party structure where authority is no longer shaped by his past dominance but by current officeholders—chief among them Governor Fubara. The unfolding drama raises critical questions: Is Wike’s era of control in Rivers coming to an end? Will Fubara emerge as the undisputed political force ahead of 2027? And is the APC deliberately re-engineering power in Rivers to sideline one of Nigeria’s most formidable political figures?

As endorsements mount and party leadership draws firm lines, one thing is clear: Rivers State politics is entering a decisive phase—and the outcome could reshape the state’s political landscape for years to come.

Who Is Illegally Selling Hostel Spaces at IBB University? Why IBBUL Is Warning Students, Investigating Racketeers, and Threatening Sanctions Over Exploitation of Freshers

Who is behind the illegal sale of hostel spaces at Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University (IBBUL), Lapai—and how are unsuspecting students being exploited? Why has the university stepped in with stern warnings, investigations, and threats of punishment? And what does this mean for students struggling to secure accommodation amid rising demand?

IBB University, Niger State, has raised the alarm over what it describes as a growing and disturbing practice in which individuals and organised groups allegedly hijack hostel spaces and resell them to students at inflated prices. According to the institution, these activities typically target vulnerable students—especially freshers—who are desperate for accommodation at the beginning of academic sessions when hostel demand is highest.

In a statement issued by the Deputy Registrar (Information), Alhaji Baba Akote, the university condemned the practice as exploitative and fraudulent. He explained that some individuals deliberately secure official hostel allocations only to turn around and sell them illegally at exorbitant rates, effectively profiting from students’ desperation and undermining the university’s accommodation system.

How exactly does the scheme work? The university says these groups identify periods of high demand, corner available hostel spaces, and then offer them to students at prices far above approved rates—often misleading students into believing the transactions are legitimate. For many new students unfamiliar with campus processes, the trap is easy to fall into.

What action is the university taking? IBBUL has directed its Student Affairs Division to launch a full investigation aimed at identifying and exposing those involved. University authorities insist that the matter will not be treated lightly and that all culprits will be held accountable.

What are the consequences? In a strong warning, the management made it clear that both sellers and buyers of illegally traded hostel spaces will face disciplinary action. The university says “stringent measures” are being prepared to deter the practice and restore transparency and fairness in the hostel allocation process.

But will this crackdown be enough to end racketeering on campus? As students continue to grapple with accommodation shortages, many are asking whether the investigation will uncover the networks behind the scheme—and whether enforcement will finally stop the exploitation that has quietly flourished for years.

At the heart of the issue lies a pressing question for students and parents alike: can universities protect their communities from internal profiteering, or will desperate housing needs continue to be used as a tool for exploitation?

BURKINA FASO FOILS COUP ATTEMPT

Burkina Faso's Military junta announced that it had foiled what was described a sophisticated plot to assassinate its military leader, Captain Ibrahim Traoré.

Security Minister Mahamadou Sana revealed the details in a national television broadcast, stating that intelligence services intercepted the operation in its final stages.

He alleged that the plotters had planned to assassinate the head of state and then strike other key institutions, including civilian personalities, alleging that the conspiracy was funded from neighbouring country.

Sana said authorities uncovered a leaked video in which the plotters discussed their intentions, including assassinating Traoré either at close range or by planting explosives at his residence shortly after 11 p.m. local time on Saturday, January 3.

The conspirators allegedly planned to follow up by targeting other senior military and civilian figures, mobilizing soldiers and civilian supporters, and disabling the country's drone-launch base to prevent foreign intervention.
Sana added that the situation was under control and urging citizens "not to be misled, out of naivety, into dangerous schemes.

Tinubu’s Information Minister Suspends Aide Over Unauthorised 2027 Niger Election Write-Up
January 7, 2026 – Politics

Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris Malagi, has suspended his aide, Sa’idu Enagi, for publishing an unauthorised political article discussing the 2027 Niger State governorship election. The write-up, titled “Malagi 2027”, circulated without the Minister’s approval, prompting the Ministry to clarify that it does not represent Malagi’s views.

In a statement, Malagi’s Special Assistant on Media, Rabiu Ibrahim, urged the public to disregard the publication. He confirmed that Malagi had initiated an immediate investigation and disciplined the aide by issuing a suspension letter with immediate effect.

The Ministry emphasized that Malagi maintains a positive relationship with Niger State Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, highlighting that speculation about the 2027 elections could undermine their collaborative efforts for the state. Malagi remains focused on his federal responsibilities at the Ministry of Information.

Prior to his ministerial appointment in August 2023 by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Malagi had contested the Niger State governorship under the All Progressives Congress (APC) but lost the primary to Umar Bago.

Berom Youths Demand Proscription Of Miyetti Allah, Prosecution Of Leaders After Deadly Plateau Attacks
January 7, 2026 – Plateau State

The Berom Youths Moulder-Association (BYM) has condemned recent coordinated attacks on Jol community in Riyom Local Government Area and Gero in Gyel District of Jos South Local Government Area, Plateau State, describing them as acts of sustained terror targeting indigenous communities. The attacks, which occurred on January 6, 2026, claimed several lives, including Mr. Pius Luka Dida, Markus Danladi, Peter, and Acham Ayuba.

BYM leader Dalyop Solomon Mwantiri called the killings a “grim reminder of the sustained and systematic terror being unleashed on indigenous communities of Plateau State.” In a statement signed by National Publicity Secretary Rwang Tengwong, the association accused the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) of complicity, criticizing its chairman for falsely blaming “Berom terrorists” for attacks on Fulani persons.

The attacks reportedly caused widespread economic losses, with armed herders destroying dry-season farmlands in Kwi community, resulting in damages estimated at over ₦14 million. The Berom youth group demanded the immediate proscription of MACBAN and the arrest, investigation, and prosecution of its leadership. They called on security agencies and international bodies to hold Ibrahim Yusuf and other leaders of Miyetti Allah accountable for the violence.

The association also urged prompt compensation for the families of the victims and affected farmers, alongside deployment of adequate security personnel to protect vulnerable communities across Plateau State. The group emphasized that preventive measures and swift justice are essential to curbing recurring violence and safeguarding indigenous populations.

These attacks are part of a growing pattern of violence in Plateau State, where disputes between herders and local communities have escalated into deadly conflicts over land, grazing rights, and security. Observers note that without decisive action against perpetrators and systemic reform of herding practices, such violent incidents are likely to continue. The BYM’s call for legal and security interventions reflects rising frustration among indigenous populations over perceived impunity and the failure of existing mechanisms to prevent attacks.

Security analysts say that coordinated efforts by law enforcement, community leaders, and the judiciary are critical to restoring peace, ensuring accountability, and protecting lives and property in Plateau State. Meanwhile, families of victims continue to mourn losses, highlighting the urgent need for government intervention to prevent further bloodshed.

“Burkina Faso Foils Assassination Plot Against Military Leader Traoré, Linked to Former Leader Damiba”

Burkina Faso’s security services have successfully foiled a fresh assassination attempt targeting Captain Ibrahim Traoré, the country’s military leader, according to Security Minister Mahamadou Sana. The plot was allegedly orchestrated by Lieutenant Colonel Paul Henri Damiba, Traoré’s predecessor, who was ousted in September 2022. Authorities report that the plan involved not only assassinating Traoré but also launching attacks on strategic institutions and prominent civilian figures.
Minister Sana added that the operation was financed from neighboring Ivory Coast, though neither Damiba nor Ivorian authorities have issued statements in response.
Since assuming power in 2022, Traoré, 37, has faced multiple coup attempts and continues to deal with jihadist violence that has displaced millions across the country. Despite these challenges, Traoré maintains a measure of domestic support and has gained recognition across Africa. He is known for criticizing Western influence and advocating pan-Africanist ideas.
In response to the foiled plot, Burkina Faso has tightened security around government installations and is monitoring border regions, particularly with Ivory Coast. This latest incident follows previous coup attempts, including one in April 2025, in which current and former soldiers planned attacks on the presidential palace and other key locations.
The ongoing instability in Burkina Faso is compounded by jihadist attacks and a humanitarian crisis, affecting both national security and civilian safety. Authorities continue to investigate the foiled assassination attempt as part of broader efforts to protect the military leadership and maintain national stability.

PDP Plans Strategic Meetings with Peter Obi, Atiku, and Key Powerbrokers Ahead of 2027 Elections”

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has announced plans to engage with former presidential candidate Peter Obi, ex-Vice President Atiku Abubakar, and other influential political figures as part of its strategy to rebuild the party ahead of the 2027 general elections. The announcement was made by Emmanuel Ogidi, PDP South-South Chairman, during an interview on Channels Television on Wednesday.
Ogidi revealed that the party has already begun consultations with key political actors, including former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Ibrahim Babangida (IBB), to signal that the PDP remains relevant despite internal challenges. He stressed that meetings with Obi and Atiku, both former PDP stalwarts now aligned with other political platforms, are part of a deliberate effort to reconnect with major opposition figures.
Peter Obi and Atiku Abubakar were previously PDP vice presidential and presidential candidates in the 2019 and 2023 elections, respectively. The outreach reflects the PDP’s commitment to unifying opposition voices and strengthening its democratic credentials.
The PDP’s efforts coincide with ongoing preparations for off-season elections in Ekiti and Osun states, as well as the 2027 general elections. On Tuesday, the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) met with former President Goodluck Jonathan in Abuja. Led by National Chairman Tanimu Turaki, the delegation received Jonathan’s assurance of continued loyalty and active support for the PDP.
Turaki described the former president’s commitment as “very reassuring and encouraging”, highlighting the PDP’s determination to reorganize, strengthen internal cohesion, and mobilize key political actors ahead of critical upcoming elections.
The PDP’s outreach initiative is viewed as a strategic move to solidify its relevance in Nigeria’s political landscape, heal internal divisions, and present a united front against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in the years leading up to the 2027 polls.

Bauchi State Pensioners Suffer Delays as Auditor-General Reveals ₦1.2 Billion in Undocumented Payments Across Ministries

Bauchi State pensioners continue to face severe financial hardship as delays in pension and gratuity payments persist. Danjuma Babaji, who retired in November 2022, went nine months without salary or pension, surviving on subsistence farming and livestock rearing. While he eventually began receiving monthly pension in July 2023, his ₦3.7 million gratuity remains unpaid. Similarly, Adamu Ibrahim, retired in 2017, endured months without income and now relies on his children for support.
An analysis of the Bauchi State Auditor-General’s 2024 report reveals widespread failures in financial accountability, with millions of naira spent across ministries without proper documentation, approval, or authorisation. Notable figures include ₦182.8 million spent without supporting documents, ₦104.5 million paid without approval, and ₦261.7 million disbursed without Accounting Officer authorisation. Ministries affected include the Office of the Chief of Staff, Finance, Budget, Women Affairs, Religious Affairs, Education, and Housing & Environment, with the largest undocumented payment totaling ₦565 million in the latter.
The findings underscore systemic lapses in public finance management, leaving pensioners and citizens unable to hold officials accountable and raising further questions about corruption and institutional oversight in Bauchi State.