Friday, July 31, 2026

Nigeria Demands Justice, Considers Evacuation as Xenophobia Fears Rise in South Africa

By
Justice Oladapo
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Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu

The Nigerian government has intensified diplomatic pressure on South Africa while considering emergency evacuation measures for its citizens, following a resurgence of xenophobic tensions and the reported deaths of two Nigerians in separate incidents involving security personnel.

In a situation report released by the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Abuja confirmed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed “grave concern” over the unfolding developments and has called on South African authorities to ensure stronger protection for foreign nationals. The Nigerian leader has also directed close monitoring of the situation as tensions persist across key cities.

Recent protests in Pretoria and Johannesburg between April 27 and 29 have heightened anxiety among migrant communities, particularly Nigerians. Although the demonstrations were largely peaceful and conducted under heavy police presence, officials noted that they were marked by “xenophobic rhetoric, hate speeches and incendiary anti-migrant statements,” drawing global condemnation.

Despite no confirmed attacks on Nigerians during the protests, two separate incidents involving Nigerian nationals have amplified fears. Amamiro Chidiebere Emmanuel died on April 25 from injuries allegedly sustained after a brutal assault by members of the South African National Defence Force in Port Elizabeth. In another case, Nnaemeka Matthew Andrew reportedly died following an encounter with the Tshwane Metro Police, with his body later discovered at a mortuary in Pretoria. Nigerian authorities described both incidents as “utterly condemnable and unacceptable,” insisting that justice must be served.

In response, Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has summoned South Africa’s High Commissioner, signaling a firm diplomatic stance. At the same time, arrangements are underway for voluntary evacuation flights for Nigerians who wish to return home, with at least 130 individuals already registered for repatriation.

“The priority at this time remains the safety of our citizens,” Odumegwu-Ojukwu stated, adding that Nigeria’s High Commission and Consulate in South Africa are working closely with local authorities to minimize risks and ensure adequate protection for Nigerians.

South African officials, including President Cyril Ramaphosa, Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber, and Police Affairs Minister Firoz Cachalia, have publicly condemned xenophobic violence and reaffirmed their government’s opposition to attacks on foreign nationals. Their assurances, however, have done little to calm anxieties ahead of another planned round of demonstrations scheduled between May 4 and May 8.

Nigerian officials warn that the recurring pattern of xenophobic unrest—often linked to political cycles in South Africa—poses a sustained threat to foreign communities. They also stressed Nigeria’s historical role in supporting South Africa’s liberation struggle, urging renewed efforts to strengthen bilateral cooperation and protect lives.

ADC Unveils 2026 Primaries Timetable, Fixes Presidential Form at N100m

By
Laziz Olatunde
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The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has released its official timetable for the 2026 primary elections, outlining a tightly structured schedule and fee regime as the party prepares for the next electoral cycle.

Announcing the development, the party said the timetable reflects its commitment to transparency, internal democracy, and adherence to electoral guidelines. According to a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the process will commence with the sale of nomination forms from May 5 to May 10, 2026, while submission of completed forms is slated for May 11 to May 13.

Screening of aspirants is expected to take place between May 14 and May 15, with results to be published on May 17. The party has also provided a window for appeals from May 18 to May 19, ahead of the release of the final list of cleared aspirants on May 20.

Primary elections are scheduled to begin on May 21, with contests for State Houses of Assembly, House of Representatives, and Senate seats holding simultaneously at the ward level. Governorship primaries will follow on May 22, while the presidential primary is fixed for May 25. The process will culminate in a National Executive Committee meeting on May 26 and a Special National Convention on May 27, where final ratifications will be made.

The party also confirmed a structured fee framework for aspirants, with the presidential nomination form pegged at N100 million, governorship at N50 million, Senate at N20 million, House of Representatives at N10 million, and State House of Assembly at N3 million.

Despite the high fees, the ADC said it is taking steps to encourage broader participation. “To encourage wider participation, we have introduced concessional rates, offering a 50 percent discount for youths and a 25 percent discount for women and persons with disabilities,” the statement read.

Reaffirming the party’s expectations, Abdullahi urged members and aspirants to comply strictly with the guidelines. “The timetable reflects our party’s commitment to internal democracy, orderliness, and full compliance with electoral guidelines,” he stated.

NAF Airstrike Destroys Terrorist Camp in Katsina, Targets Abasu Aiki Network

By
Laziz Olatunde
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The Nigerian Air Force has carried out a precision airstrike against terrorist elements in Katsina State, destroying a key hideout linked to a notorious kingpin, Abasu Aiki, in a fresh escalation of military operations in the North-West.

The strike, executed on Friday by the Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA Sector 2, targeted a heavily fortified enclave in the Dan-Aji Forest within Faskari Local Government Area. According to military authorities, the operation followed sustained intelligence indicating renewed terrorist activity and the use of the location as a logistics hub and transit corridor for fighters operating across parts of the state.

Intelligence reports identified the site as a strategic base for militants loyal to Abasu Aiki, who have been linked to repeated attacks on communities and security formations along the Faskari, Kankara, and Funtua axis. Acting on the intelligence, NAF surveillance assets tracked armed fighters, many of them on motorcycles, before launching a coordinated strike on the enclave and its support infrastructure.

A post-strike Battle Damage Assessment confirmed that several terrorists were neutralised during the operation, while the camp and associated logistics structures were destroyed. The bombardment reportedly triggered secondary explosions and widespread fires, indicating the presence of stockpiled supplies and munitions within the facility.

Military officials said the operation represents a significant disruption to terrorist mobility and resupply capabilities in the region, further weakening networks that have sustained attacks in parts of Katsina State.

Peter Obi Finally Dumps ADC, Cites ‘Toxic Environment’ and Political Manipulation

By
Kazeem Busari
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NDC presidential candidate Peter Obi

Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has opened up on the reasons behind his exit from the African Democratic Congress (ADC), blaming what he described as a “toxic” political environment and persistent systemic interference in party affairs.

In a deeply reflective message shared on Sunday, Obi said his decision to leave the party was not driven by personal grievances against its leadership but by broader structural issues undermining internal cohesion and democratic ideals. “My decision to leave the ADC is not because our highly respected Chairman, Senator David Mark, treated me badly, nor because my leader and elder brother, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, or any other respected leaders did anything personally wrong to me,” he stated.

Instead, Obi pointed to what he described as recurring patterns of political destabilisation, alleging that external forces had begun to infiltrate party structures. According to him, “the same Nigerian state and its agents that created unnecessary crises and hostility within the Labour Party that forced me to leave now appear to be finding their way into the ADC, with endless court cases, internal battles, suspicion, and division.”

The former Anambra State governor lamented the broader climate of Nigerian politics, describing it as increasingly hostile to sincerity and reform-minded leadership. He said the environment is marked by “intimidation, insecurity, endless scrutiny, and discouragement,” adding that even allies sometimes become sources of pressure. “Some who publicly identify with you privately distance themselves or join in unfair criticism,” he noted.

Obi also used the statement to reflect on his personal philosophy of leadership, emphasising service over ambition. “I have never used privilege, position, or resources to oppress others, intimidate the weak, or make people feel small. To me, leadership has always been about service, sacrifice, and helping others rise,” he said.

Despite stepping away from the ADC, Obi maintained that his political decisions are not driven by personal ambition for office but by a desire for systemic change. “Let me assure all that I am not desperate to be President, Vice President, or Senate President. I am desperate to see a society that can console a mother whose child has been kidnapped or killed,” he said, highlighting insecurity and poverty as key concerns.

He further questioned societal values, arguing that integrity and humility are often misinterpreted in Nigeria’s political space. “Why is doing the right thing often misconstrued as wrongdoing in our country? Why is integrity not valued?” he asked.

Police Deny Role in Iseyin Rider’s Death, Detain Officers as Probe Begins

By
Kazeem Busari
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The Oyo State Police Command has denied allegations that its personnel were responsible for the death of a commercial motorcyclist in Iseyin, even as it confirmed the detention of two officers and the launch of a full investigation into the incident.

The Command said the victim, 25-year-old Umar Yahúza, was involved in a lone motorcycle accident at about 5:30 a.m. on May 2, 2026, near a Border Patrol checkpoint at Niko along the Iseyin/Oyo Road. He was immediately taken to Fadok Hospital for treatment but was later confirmed dead at about 7:30 a.m. due to injuries sustained in the crash.

In a statement, police authorities maintained that the incident was not caused by any officer, describing it as a single-vehicle accident. “The Oyo State Police Command wishes to inform the general public of a lone fatal motorcycle accident that occurred in Iseyin,” the statement read, firmly pushing back against claims of police involvement.

The denial followed a protest by commercial motorcycle riders who gathered outside Fadok Hospital, accusing officers stationed at the checkpoint of causing the accident. The protest was described as peaceful but underscored growing tensions and public concern over the circumstances surrounding the rider’s death.

Senior officers, working with community leaders including the Seriki of the Hausa/Fulani community, intervened to calm the situation and assured protesters that a thorough investigation would be conducted. The Command reiterated its stance on accountability, stating that “any officer found culpable will be appropriately sanctioned in accordance with the law.”

Despite its position that the crash was a lone accident, the police confirmed that an Assistant Superintendent of Police and an Inspector attached to the Border Patrol Unit have been detained pending the outcome of investigations. Authorities said this step was necessary to ensure transparency and maintain public confidence.

Investigators have already visited the accident scene, where photographic evidence was collected and a sketch map drawn to support further inquiry. The case is expected to be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department for a more comprehensive review.

Meanwhile, the remains of the deceased were released to the Seriki of the Hausa community for burial in accordance with Islamic rites, following a request from family and community representatives.

The Police Command said normalcy has been restored in the area and urged residents to remain calm, stressing its commitment to transparency and justice as it works to establish the full facts surrounding the incident.

Tinubu Orders Urgent Reconciliation as Akume-Alia Feud Meeting Holds Today

By
Laziz Olatunde
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The long-running crisis rocking the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Benue State has drawn fresh intervention from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who has directed immediate resolution between Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) Sen. George Akume and Governor Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia.

In a formal invitation dated April 22, 2026, Sen. Akume, writing in his capacity as SGF, summoned Governor Alia and key stakeholders to an urgent meeting aimed at resolving the crises afflicting the APC Benue State Chapter. The letter, referenced SGF/22/S.8 and addressed to the Governor at Government House, Makurdi, cited the attention of President Tinubu and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces on the need for party unity ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The original meeting was scheduled for Thursday, April 30, 2026, at 12 noon at the New Banquet Hall in Makurdi. It was expected to bring together 10 elders/stakeholders from each side, members of the Benue State House of Assembly, National Assembly members from the state, federal government appointees, and other critical figures. Attendance was strictly by invitation.

However, following President Tinubu’s fresh directive for swift resolution without further delay, the meeting has been rescheduled to Sunday, May 3, 2026, still in Benue State. Early indications from sources close to the process suggest a possible path to reconciliation, with Governor Alia likely securing a return ticket for the 2027 governorship election while SGF Akume is positioned to nominate most National Assembly candidates.

The directive underscores the Presidency’s determination to heal rifts within the ruling party in Benue, where parallel structures and factional tensions have persisted for years. President Tinubu had previously appealed directly for unity between the two leaders during engagements in the state and through the Progressive Governors Forum.
This latest push comes as the APC prepares for primaries and the 2027 polls, with party leaders keen to prevent further defections and consolidate support in the North Central state. The rescheduled meeting is now viewed as a make-or-break opportunity for stakeholders to align on structural adjustments, including potential changes in the State Executive Council and key appointments.
Both camps have been urged to prioritize the interest of the party and the state’s development over personal differences. 

Ogun Boosts Power Supply with 34MW Plant, Airport Energy Upgrade

By
Kazeem Busari
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Ogun State's new power station

The Ogun State Government has stepped up its push for energy security with fresh investments in power infrastructure, advancing its “Light Up Ogun” agenda aimed at delivering reliable electricity to residents, public institutions, and industrial hubs.

At the centre of the initiative is the Oni Jagan-Jagan Independent Power Plant, a major gas-powered facility now supplying 34 megawatts of electricity to strategic locations across Abeokuta. The power generated from the plant is being distributed to key areas including Oke-Mosan, government offices, and several Ministries, Departments, and Agencies, significantly improving power stability within the state capital.

In a parallel development, the government has strengthened electricity supply to critical infrastructure, notably the Gateway International Airport. A dedicated 1-megawatt gas-fired system has been installed to guarantee uninterrupted operations at the airport, as well as support the ARISE industrial development zone and newly established customs facilities. The move is expected to boost operational efficiency and enhance investor confidence in the state’s growing economic corridors.

Officials say the projects form part of a broader, long-term strategy to reduce dependence on the national grid and position Ogun as a self-reliant energy hub. By expanding generation capacity and strengthening distribution networks, the state aims to deliver consistent and affordable electricity to both households and businesses.

The government emphasised that the ongoing investments are designed not only to stabilise power supply but also to catalyse industrial growth, improve service delivery, and enhance the overall quality of life for residents. With a structured roadmap in place, authorities maintain that Ogun is steadily progressing toward a more resilient and sustainable energy future.

Ryan Reynolds ‘Gutted’ as Wrexham Miss Championship Playoffs in Dramatic Finale

By
Kazeem Busari
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Hollywood actor and co-owner Ryan Reynolds has expressed deep disappointment following Wrexham A.F.C.’s failure to secure a Championship playoff spot, bringing the club’s push for a historic fourth consecutive promotion to an abrupt halt.

Wrexham’s hopes of reaching the Premier League were dashed after a dramatic final-day draw, which saw them slip out of the playoff positions despite entering the round in contention. The result ultimately left the Welsh side just short of the top six, ending what had been a remarkable campaign.

Reacting to the outcome, Reynolds took to social media to share his emotions, writing: “I am completely gutted by today’s result but incredibly proud of our season.” He added, “We’ve come a long way in five years and this was the best result in our 150+ year history. More to do. But for now, we have so much to be proud of, Reds.”

The result caps a dramatic rise for Wrexham since Reynolds and fellow actor Rob McElhenney acquired the club in 2021, overseeing a rapid climb from non-league football to the Championship. The club’s seventh-place finish this season represents its highest-ever league performance, surpassing previous records and underlining the scale of its transformation.

Despite the disappointment, Reynolds’ message struck a tone of resilience and optimism, reflecting the broader sentiment around the club’s progress. Wrexham had been in playoff contention deep into the season, but dropped points late in the campaign proved costly in a tightly contested race.

Ipswich Seal Immediate Premier League Return with 3-0 Win Over QPR

By
Agency Report
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Ipswich Town are back in the Premier League. On Saturday afternoon at a raucous Portman Road, the Tractor Boys clinched automatic promotion from the Championship with a commanding 3-0 victory against Queens Park Rangers, securing second place and an instant return to the top flight just one season after relegation.

Goals from George Hirst and Jaden Philogene inside the first 10 minutes set the tone for a dominant display, with Kasey McAteer adding a third late on to spark wild celebrations among the sold-out crowd. The result capped a resilient campaign in which Kieran McKenna’s side amassed 84 points, notched a league-high 92 goals, and delivered when it mattered most on the final day.

This marks McKenna’s third promotion with Ipswich in four seasons — from League One in 2022/23, the Championship in 2023/24, and now again in 2025/26 after last season’s top-flight relegation. No previous Ipswich manager has achieved three promotions during their tenure.

Speaking after the match, McKenna acknowledged the challenge of this latest success. “No, it means a lot. I have to say it’s probably been the hardest one if I’m honest. So yeah, it means an awful lot. I’m so grateful to my family and the staff, the way they supported me and yeah, it’s brilliant.”

The Northern Irishman, a former Manchester United assistant, has rebuilt the squad and adapted tactically following relegation, guiding his team to an unbeaten run in the closing stages and automatic promotion ahead of rivals like Millwall and Middlesbrough.

Fans flooded the pitch at full-time as blue-and-white flares lit up Portman Road, echoing the memorable scenes from their previous promotions. The victory guarantees Premier League football at Portman Road for the 2026/27 season, with Ipswich joining Coventry City as the automatic promotees.

McKenna’s side showed character throughout a competitive Championship season, bouncing back from setbacks and maintaining consistency to finish strongly. While questions remain about their ability to stay up this time around compared to their previous Premier League stint, the immediate return underlines the progress made under the 38-year-old manager.

Troops Kill Terrorists, Rescue Abducted Victims as Offensive Intensifies in Northeast

By
Kazeem Busari
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Victims rescued from abductors.

Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have intensified counter-terrorism operations across Nigeria’s North East, recording fresh gains with the neutralisation of insurgents, arrest of suspected collaborators, surrender of a fighter, and the rescue of abducted civilians in Borno State.

The Joint Task Force (North East) disclosed that ongoing offensives under Operation DESERT SANITY V have continued to disrupt terrorist activities across key corridors, including the Sambisa Forest axis and major movement routes. In one of the latest engagements, troops working alongside members of the Civilian Joint Task Force intercepted terrorists moving from Yale towards Sambisa, killing four insurgents during a firefight. The troops recovered an AK-47 rifle, ammunition, and food supplies believed to be part of the group’s logistics chain, and returned to base without casualties.

Military authorities said sustained pressure through coordinated ground operations along routes such as Dambboa–Maiduguri, Dambboa–Gwoza, and the Goniri axis has significantly restricted the movement and operational capability of terrorist elements in the region.

In a separate development, troops deployed at Kanama arrested two suspected terrorist collaborators during a stop-and-search operation. The suspects were found with items believed to support insurgent logistics, including clothing and personal effects. Preliminary investigations also uncovered digital materials linking them to terrorist networks, and they are currently in custody for further interrogation.

The military also confirmed the surrender of a suspected Boko Haram/ISWAP member at a checkpoint in Kukawa Local Government Area. The individual reportedly claimed he was abducted earlier in the year and forced into joining the group. He is undergoing profiling as part of ongoing investigations.

Meanwhile, troops recorded a major humanitarian breakthrough with the rescue of six abducted civilians in Ngoshe community, Gwoza Local Government Area. The victims, comprising women and children, were intercepted around Amuda while troops were returning from an overnight offensive operation on May 1. The area is known as a transit route for terrorist movements.

According to preliminary debriefings, the victims had been abducted during a March 3 attack on Ngoshe and held in captivity at a terrorist enclave in Gava before managing to escape. Troops came under sporadic gunfire from pursuing insurgents during the rescue but responded decisively, forcing the attackers to retreat into the Mandara Mountains.

The rescued individuals were given immediate medical attention before being formally handed over to community authorities. They were later reunited with their families in an emotional ceremony facilitated by the Wali of Ngoshe, Alhaji Shuaibu Dabawa.

Military authorities attributed the success of the rescue to intensified air and ground operations targeting terrorist enclaves, noting that sustained pressure has weakened insurgent cohesion and triggered internal disarray within their ranks.

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