Governor Otti appoints D/Speaker Kalu’s wife as ABSUTH Board Chairman, sparks political debate

 

 

 

 

Governor Otti Appoints Benjamin Kalu’s Wife as ABSUTH Board Chairman, Sparks Political Debate in Abia

The Governor of Abia State, Alex Otti, has approved the appointment of Dr. Ezinne Chinyere Benjamin-Kalu as Chairman of the Management Board of the Abia State University Teaching Hospital, in a move that has generated both commendation and political debate within the state.

 

Dr. Ezinne Benjamin-Kalu is the wife of the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, who represents Bende Federal Constituency and is widely regarded as a prominent political figure in Abia. The appointment was announced through an official government statement, which also unveiled a newly reconstituted management board for the institution.

 

According to the state government, the reconstitution of the ABSUTH board is part of a broader strategy to revitalise the hospital and reposition it as a centre of excellence in healthcare delivery, medical research, and professional training. The administration emphasised that the new leadership is expected to drive reforms that will enhance service quality, improve infrastructure, and strengthen the institution’s academic and clinical reputation.

 

Alongside Dr. Benjamin-Kalu, several other professionals were named to serve on the board. These include Prof. Nneka Chioma Okoronkwo as Chief Medical Director, as well as Dr. Kelechi Omende, Dr. Temple Nwosu, and Dr. Patrick Umezurike as members. Other appointees are Prof. P. E. N. Onyemachi, who will serve as Chairman of the Medical Advisory Committee; Prof. Gazie Okpara, Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Senate Representative; and Prof. Chuks Kamanu, Provost of the College of Medical Sciences.

 

The board also includes Dr. Mrs. Ifeyinwa Blossom Uma Kalu, representing the Ministry of Health; Mrs. Ihuoma Nwagbara as Director of Administration and Secretary to the Board; and Dr. Odochi Ewurum, representing the Nigeria Medical Association. The composition reflects a blend of administrative, academic, and clinical expertise, which the government believes will be instrumental in achieving its healthcare reform objectives.

 

In his remarks, Governor Otti congratulated the newly appointed chairman and board members, urging them to justify the confidence reposed in them by delivering tangible improvements in the hospital’s operations. He stressed the importance of commitment, professionalism, and innovation in transforming ABSUTH into a leading healthcare institution not only in Abia State but across Nigeria.

 

The governor noted that strengthening the healthcare sector remains a central pillar of his administration’s agenda, adding that institutions like ABSUTH must be repositioned to meet the growing demands for quality medical services and training.

 

“These appointments are aimed at bringing in capable hands who can help reposition the hospital for better service delivery, research output, and training of medical professionals,” the statement indicated.

 

The appointments take immediate effect and are seen as part of ongoing efforts by the Abia State Government to overhaul key public institutions. In recent months, the administration has undertaken a series of reforms targeting infrastructure, governance, and service delivery across various sectors, with healthcare identified as a priority area.

 

However, the decision to appoint Dr. Benjamin-Kalu as board chairman has also sparked political reactions, given her relationship with a key opposition figure in the state. Benjamin Kalu, as Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, is considered a major political actor and is widely believed to be a potential contender in the forthcoming governorship election in Abia State.

 

Critics have argued that the appointment blurs the line between governance and politics, raising questions about the motivations behind the decision. Some observers contend that bringing a close family member of a political rival into a strategic public role could be interpreted in different ways—either as a gesture of inclusivity or as a calculated political move.

 

Others, however, have defended the appointment, insisting that professional competence and experience should be the primary criteria for public office, rather than political affiliations or family ties. They argue that if the appointee possesses the requisite qualifications and expertise, her relationship with a political figure should not automatically disqualify her from serving.

 

Supporters of the governor have also framed the move as an indication of political maturity, suggesting that it demonstrates a willingness to prioritise governance over partisan divisions. In their view, appointing individuals based on merit, regardless of political associations, could foster a more inclusive and effective administration.

 

Despite the differing perspectives, the development has added a new dimension to the political landscape in Abia State, particularly as preparations for the next governorship election gradually gather momentum. The intersection of governance decisions and political considerations remains a defining feature of Nigeria’s democratic process, often shaping public perception and discourse.

 

For the newly appointed board, however, the immediate task lies in addressing the operational challenges facing ABSUTH. Like many public healthcare institutions in Nigeria, the hospital has faced issues ranging from funding constraints and infrastructure deficits to workforce shortages and service delivery gaps.

 

The success of the new management team will likely be measured by its ability to implement reforms that improve patient care, enhance training programmes, and attract investment into the institution. Achieving these goals will require not only technical expertise but also effective coordination among stakeholders within and outside the healthcare system.

 

As the board settles into its responsibilities, attention will remain focused on how it navigates both the administrative demands of the institution and the broader expectations of the public. In a sector where performance directly impacts lives, the stakes are particularly high.

 

Ultimately, Governor Otti’s latest appointments underscore the complex interplay between governance, professionalism, and politics in public administration. Whether the decision proves to be a strategic masterstroke or a source of continued controversy will depend largely on the outcomes delivered by the new leadership of ABSUTH in the months ahead. Uzorngoladi.

Tinubu sacks Finance, Housing Ministers

 

President Bola Tinubu has approved a minor reshuffle of the Federal Executive Council (FEC), resulting in the exit of two ministers and the appointment of new replacements.

 

This was disclosed in a statement issued by the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) and signed by George Akume.

 

According to the statement, the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, and the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, have been directed to leave the cabinet.

Edun is to hand over to Taiwo Oyedele, who has been elevated from his position as Minister of State in the ministry to assume the role of substantive Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy.

 

In the housing sector, Muttaqha Rabe Darma has been named as ministerial nominee and minister designate for the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, while Dangiwa has been directed to hand over to the Minister of State pending further processes.

 

The SGF stated that all handing-over procedures must be concluded on or before the close of business on April 23, 2026.

 

Explaining the rationale behind the reshuffle, Akume said the changes were designed to “strengthen cohesion and synergy in governance” and to enhance the delivery of economic benefits to Nigerians in line with the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

 

He added that the President acted within the powers conferred on him by Sections 147 and 148 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

 

Tinubu expressed appreciation to the outgoing ministers for their service to the nation and wished them well in their future endeavours.

 

The President also assured members of the cabinet that efforts to reinvigorate government operations would be an ongoing process.

 

The reshuffle is seen as part of broader efforts by the administration to recalibrate its economic team and improve policy execution amid ongoing reforms.

Authority.

FG to arraign retired General, ex-minister, five others for alleged 2025 coup plot

The Federal Government will on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, arraign seven persons, including a retired major general and a former minister of state, for an alleged 2025 plot to overthrow the Nigerian state.

The Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation filed a 13-count charge of treason, terrorism, and money laundering before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court, Abuja.

The case, marked FHC/ABJ/CR/206/2026, was entered April 20 by Director of Public Prosecutions Rotimi Oyedepo, SAN.

Named in the charge are retired Major General Mohammed Ibrahim Gana, retired Navy Captain Erasmus Ochegobia Victor, Inspector Ahmed Ibrahim, Zekeri Umoru, Bukar Kashim Goni, and Abdulkadir Sani. Former Minister of State for Petroleum Resources Timipre Sylva is listed as “at large.”
Prosecutors allege the group conspired in 2025 “to levy war against the state to overawe the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” an offence under Section 37(2) of the Criminal Code.

The FG further claims the defendants knew of a planned treasonable act involving one Colonel Mohammed Alhassan Ma’aji and others but “did not give the information thereof with all reasonable despatch to either the President or a Peace Officer.” A related count says they “did not use any reasonable endeavours to prevent the commission of the offence.”

Beyond treason, the charge invokes the Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022. The AGF alleges the defendants “conspired with one another to commit an act of terrorism” and that Inspector Ibrahim and Zekeri Umoru attended meetings “in a bid to further a political ideology which may seriously destabilise the constitutional structure” of Nigeria.

The charge also cites suppression of intelligence: the defendants allegedly “had information which would be of material assistance in preventing the commission of the act of terrorism but failed to disclose the information to the relevant agency as soon as practicable.”

Financial counts under the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, 2022, allege terrorism financing. Bukar Goni is accused of retaining N50 million “which forms part of the proceeds of an unlawful act, to wit: terrorism financing.” Abdulkadir Sani allegedly retained N2 million from a similar source.

Zekeri Umoru is accused of accepting a N10 million cash payment “without going through a financial institution” and retaining another N8.8 million suspected to be terrorism proceeds. Inspector Ahmed Ibrahim allegedly took possession of N1 million linked to the scheme.

The prosecution describes the case as “a coordinated network involving security personnel, civilians, and a politically exposed individual, allegedly connected to activities threatening national security.”

The arraignment is scheduled for Wednesday before Justice Abdulmalik in Abuja. No plea has been entered.
The ConclaveNG

Nigerian Navy intercepts, rescues 3 suspected stowaways in Lagos

 

 

The Nigerian Navy, through personnel of Nigerian Navy Ship (NNS) BEECROFT, has successfully intercepted and rescued three suspected stowaways aboard the merchant vessel MSC STELLA (IMO No. 9279988) off the Lagos Fairway Buoy, in a continued demonstration of its Search and Rescue (SAR) and maritime security commitment.

 

This is contained in statement signed by Group Captain A. A. Folorunsho, Nigerian Navy’s Director of Information on Monday.

 

The operation, according to the statement, followed credible intelligence received from the Western Regional Control Centre (WRCC), at about 5:05 p.m. on Sunday, 19 April 2026. Acting swiftly, the Quick Response Team (QRT) of NNS BEECROFT, stationed at Tarkwa Bay, was immediately deployed to the vessel’s location. The team successfully rescued the three suspects approximately five nautical miles off the Lagos coastline.

 

“Preliminary investigations indicate that the suspects illegally boarded the vessel at about 1:00 a.m. on Friday, 17 April 2026, while it was berthed at Tin Can Island Port. The individuals identified as Aguru Michael (27), a national of the Benin Republic; Soye Monday (25), from Ondo State; and Kentobou Peter (22), from Delta State, reportedly intended to stow away to Europe.

 

“This recent rescue effort exemplifies the Nigerian Navy’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives at sea. Building on previous successful SAR missions—such as the rescue of seven individuals after the collision involving a Tantita Patrol boat and a wooden vessel in Bayelsa, and the rescue and handover of three foreign stowaways aboard MT ANATOLIA in March 2026—the Navy continues to demonstrate its robust operational tempo in countering irregular migration and ensuring maritime safety across Nigeria’s waters.”

 

The statement also disclosed that the “suspects are now in the custody of NNS BEECROFT, where they are undergoing thorough investigation and administrative processing in line with established laws.

 

“The Nigerian Navy reaffirms its dedication to securing Nigeria’s maritime domain and maintaining effective Search and Rescue operations to combat illegal activities within the country’s territorial waters.

 

“Please find attached photos and you are kindly requested to disseminate the information to the general public. Thank you for your cooperation,” it concluded. Globalupfront.

JAMB releases more UTME results 

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has released additional results from the ongoing 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME), covering candidates who sat for the test on its second and third days.
In a statement issued Sunday evening, the Board’s spokesman, Fabian Benjamin, advised affected candidates to check their results using their registered phone numbers.
The statement read: “The results of candidates who sat the examination on Friday, 17 April and Saturday, 18 April 2026 have now been released. A total of 1,264,940 results from these two days are available for candidates to check/view
“To view their results, candidates should send UTMERESULT to 55019 or 66019 using the phone (SIM)number they used to register for the 2026 UTME..”
Earlier, the Board had made public 632,752 results for candidates who wrote the examination on Thursday, 16 April 2026, bringing the cumulative number of released results to 1,897,692.
About 2.2 million candidates registered for this year’s UTME. Authority.

JAMB releases 2026 UTME first batch results, arrests candidates over AI score manipulation

 

Just about 24 hours after the examination, the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has released the first batch of results for candidates who participated in the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).

 

Fabian Benjamin, JAMB’s Spokesman in a statement issued on Friday confirmed the development.

According to him, 632,788 candidates who sat for the examination on Thursday can now access their results.

 

Candidates, the statement added, are required to send “UTMERESULT” via SMS to either 55019 or 66019 using the same phone number used during registration to check their scores.

 

The statement added that only result-viewing is currently available, noting that printing of result slips has not yet been activated.

 

The Spokesman also explained that the UTME exercise is still ongoing, adding that results will continue to be released in batches as marking and processing of scripts progress.

 

The Board issued a strong warning against attempts to manipulate or falsify examination scores and also cautioned candidates against editing SMS messages received from official platforms to misrepresent their results to parents, guardians, or third parties.

 

The Board disclosed that arrests have already been made. “Two candidates and one parent are currently in custody for engaging in result falsification using AI and other electronic means,” the statement disclosed.

 

JAMB urged candidates to rely only on official channels for result verification and maintain honesty throughout the admission process, reiterating its commitment to ensuring a credible and transparent admissions system in Nigeria. Sunrisereporters.

PHOTO NEWS

Middle: Hon Minister state Petroleum Resources (Gas,) Rt. Hon Ekprikpe Ekpo, ALGON National President Hon Engr Bello Lawal (right) immediate right, Chief of Staff Marshall Shehu Jega extreme left DG ALGON Barr Mrs Evan Enekwe, Distinguished Senator Alphonsus Ubanesse Lead Consultant to ALGON, Mrs Patience N. Oyekunle; Director in the Ministry and Dr. Ben Nkechika ALGON Consultant on Health Matters during a Courtesy call to the Hon Minister at NNPC Towers Abuja recently

2027 my last presidential contest -Atiku

 

 

Former Vice President and now presidential aspirant on the platform of the opposition African Democratic Congress (ADC), Atiku Abubakar has disclosed that the 2027 presidential election would be his last shot at the office.

Atiku, who began contesting for the presidency of Nigeria since 1993, and made several more attempts for the office, made the disclosure Wednesday night at an interview with Arise TV Primetime.

Responding to a question on how high the stakes of the upcoming election is, considering that he would soon be 80, Atiku retorted,
“Yes, the stakes are higher because I believe that would be my last outing.”
He, however, stated that he considered himself the most popular candidate from the north, stressing that no other northern politician in the race had more block votes than him.

“Can you tell me who among the current leaders in the North have more votes than I have? You are talking of figures like Tambuwal; you are talking of figures like Kwakwanso; the El-Rufais and other emerging political figures. But none of them have got block votes as much as I have got. Kwakwanso has Kano. We concede that to him. Kano is even now split between him and Governor Abba Yusuf,” he declared.
The former vice president disclosed that ADC would rather its presidential candidate emerged by consensus, however, adding that should that fail, they would resort to direct primaries.
“The first option would be to aim for consensus. If we don’t get it, we’ll go for direct primaries,” declared Atiku.

Responding to questions about why Nigerians should still support him after multiple attempts and considering his age, the former vice president argued that Nigeria’s main challenge remains leadership. He stressed that he represents both the young and the old, experience and vision for the country’s future.

He also emphasised the need for leadership development among young Nigerians, noting that the country would benefit from structured training for emerging leaders.

“We have seen various levels of leadership in the country, both young and old, and I still believe our expectations of young leadership are below what we thought. I believe young people require experience and tutelage from the older generation,” he declared. Authority.

2027: Anybody will defeat Tinubu – Galadimma

A chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Buba Galadimma, has launched a scathing attack on the administration of Bola Tinubu, declaring that the ruling party would face overwhelming rejection in the 2027 general elections.

Speaking at the ADC National Convention in Abuja on Tuesday, Galadimma alleged that opposition parties were being systematically suppressed, warning that such actions could undermine Nigeria’s democratic space.

Galadimma accused the ruling All Progressives Congress(APC) of attempting to weaken opposition parties, including the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Labour Party (LP) and others.

In one of the most striking moments of his speech, he predicted a crushing defeat for President Tinubu in the next election.

“Even if there is no living human being in Nigeria and we bring a corpse in a coffin and put it against President Tinubu, I assure you that that corpse will win the election in 2027,” he said.

He called on opposition members to remain resolute, stressing that “resilience, boldness, and courage” would be key to resisting what he described as intimidation by those in power.

Galadimma who was a founding member of APC and the force behind the emergence of late President Muhammadu Buhari also in a fiery address, claimed that the convention earlier faced last-minute disruption, alleging that the venue was nearly withdrawn under pressure from authorities.

“Yesterday around 1 a.m., we got a message that this venue that was acquired for this convention was actually cancelled because the owner was threatened… that if he allows us to be here, they will revoke his certificate of occupancy,” he said.

According to him, despite the alleged intimidation, party leaders resolved to proceed with the event.

“My opinion was simply that even if Abuja will burn to ashes today, we will hold this convention in this hall. And so we did,” Galadimma declared, describing the development as a “test of resilience” for the party.

He warned that such incidents could escalate, suggesting that opposition parties might face further restrictions as the 2027 elections approach.

“They may not even allow us to campaign in Nigeria. So it is important that nobody in this country should set the pace on how our political behaviour should be. We must assert ourselves whether they like it or not,” he added. Authority.

Another Army Commander killed by terrorists, Tinubu summons Service Chiefs

 

Few days after the killing of Brigadier-General Braimah Oseni and some soldiers Benisheikh, another Commanding Officer and six soldiers were killed late Sunday night when their vehicle struck an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) in Monguno both in Borno State.

The latest killing happened just minutes after the unit had successfully fought off a terrorist attack on their position.

 

 

Troops of Sector 3, Joint Task Force (North East), had come under an insurgent infiltration attempt at Charlie 13 location and engaged the attackers in a fierce gun battle, forcing them to flee.

 

With the area apparently secured, the Commanding Officer (whose identity has not been officially released by the Military authorities) drove forward to assess the situation firsthand.

 

His vehicle hit an IED. He and six of his men died at the scene.

 

The attack was the latest in a string of deadly incidents along the Borno corridor.

 

Just days earlier, coordinated assaults were recorded in Ngamdu and Benisheik, while the military has been conducting sustained airstrikes on ISWAP enclaves in the Jilli axis following intelligence of insurgent buildup in the area.

 

Lt. Col. Sani Uba, Media Information Officer of Operation HADIN KAI, confirmed the deaths of the Monguno attack on Monday morning.

With additional report by TheConclaveNg)