Politicians are the Goliaths in our polity; Nigeria must find its David -Peter Obi

 

Peter Obi, the front-runner for the 2027 presidential election in Nigeria has identified politicians as the Goliath obstructing progress in Nigeria and emphasised that Nigeria needs a David to rescue the nation.

At a Youth Conference in Abuja, organised by Rev Fr John Chinenye Oluoma of the Abuja Archdiocese, Obi clearly stated that Nigeria must raise a David capable of defeating the Goliath within its polity to forge ahead.

Said Obi, “Today, at the David and Goliath conference in Abuja, aimed at empowering Nigerian youths to confront their challenges, I made it clear that the Goliaths in Nigeria’s political landscape are the politicians who divert public funds for personal gain. I told the youths that these politicians are the primary Goliaths because they refuse to prioritise the country’s interests.

“All critical sectors—security, power, healthcare, and education—are suffering because of the leaders’ corrupt tendencies.

“The youth delegates at the conference posed tough questions about overcoming the Goliath in their lives as Nigerians,” he said.

Giving further details, the former Governor of Anambra State said: “From their questions, I identified the key areas where Nigeria is failing: security, education, health, and unemployment.

“I challenged the youth to be realistic in their pursuits—live within their means and reject artificial lifestyles—as a way to conquer the Goliath in their lives, he said. Sunrisereporters.

 

Not yet time to celebrate – Atiku speaks on emergence as ADC presidential candidate

 

African Democratic Congress, ADC, presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar has declared that it is not yet time to celebrate.

Reacting to his emergence as the ADC flagbearer in the 2027 presidential election, Atiku urged all the party’s contestants to work together in pulling Nigeria out of the grip of corruption, incompetence and what he described as the polarizing government of the All Progressives Congress, APC.

 

Posting on X, the former Vice President wrote: “I must state at this juncture that this is not the time to celebrate. No one was defeated because we are one party and we all need to recognise the fierce urgency of the moment.

 

“Therefore, we have to unite, as we pledged before this process, to work to pull our country and our people out of the destructive grip of a corrupt, incompetent and polarising APC government.”

Atiku commended the ADC’s primary election committee for the peaceful outcome of the primaries across the country.

He said: “I thank the primary elections Committee for organising peaceful, free, fair and transparent primaries.

 

“I thank the various leadership organs of our party, the various stakeholders, and volunteers for their hard work and dedication and all our party members and supporters for their efforts, patience and conduct during the process.”

The former Vice president stressed that hard work is about to begin with the conclusion of the primaries.

 

“With the primaries behind us, the real hard work is about to begin. We have to prepare to campaign hard to win the next general elections in order to begin the difficult process of rescuing our country and its long-suffering people from this government,” he added. Newspot.

Biafra Day: MASSOB declares sit at home 

Movement for the Actualisation of the Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB) has announced a compulsory sit-at-home exercise across the South-East and parts of the South-South on Saturday, May 30, 2026, to mark Biafra Day.

The Group also directed churches in the affected regions to hold special memorial and thanksgiving services on Sunday, May 31, 2026.
In a statement released by MASSOB’s National Director of Information, Edeson Samuel, the activities are intended to commemorate the 59th anniversary of the declaration of Biafra by the late General Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu on May 30, 1967.
According to the Group, the church services will honour millions of people who died during the Nigerian Civil War between 1967 and 1970.
The group described the anniversary as a significant moment in its continued pursuit of self-determination. MASSOB said the sit-at-home order represents a day of remembrance, reflection, and peaceful civil disobedience.
The statement noted that markets, schools, banks, motor parks, and other public and private business establishments are expected to remain closed from 6:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on May 30.
Samuel said the shutdown is meant to show respect and appreciation for those who sacrificed their lives during the war.
MASSOB however warned its members against organizing public rallies, marches, or street demonstrations during the commemoration, citing concerns over possible clashes with security agencies.
The Group also used the occasion to renew its demand for the unconditional release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
MASSOB further noted that security agencies, including the Nigerian Army, Police, DSS, and Civil Defence Corps, would likely be heavily deployed across the region during the anniversary activities but insisted that intimidation, arrests, or State actions would not weaken the resolve of people advocating for self-determination. Authority.

Enforce ban on roaming cattle in Abuja, HURIWA tells Wike

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has urged the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, to enforce ban on roaming cattle on major roads and public spaces within the nation’s capital, Abuja.
HURIWA made the appeal in a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, expressing concern over the increasing presence of cattle on highways and busy traffic corridors in parts of the Federal Capital Territory, warning that the development poses safety and environmental risks.
It said the nation’s capital, should reflect orderliness, proper urban management and strict compliance with regulations guiding public safety and sanitation.
The association also raised concerns over insecurity in the FCT, especially incidents linked to suspected “one-chance” robbery syndicates, urging security agencies to intensify intelligence gathering and coordinated operations to safeguard residents and commuters.
According to the statement, residents of the capital city deserve improved security and stronger law enforcement measures to curb criminal activities.
HURIWA therefore called on the Inspector-General of Police and the Department of State Services, DSS, to collaborate closely with other security agencies in dismantling criminal networks operating within Abuja and its environs.
The association further urged the FCT Administration to ensure strict implementation of laws prohibiting open grazing and obstruction of highways within the city.
It also called for immediate removal of cattle obstructing public roads and highways, improved synergy among security agencies in tackling criminality, and greater transparency regarding the arrest and prosecution of suspects linked to “one-chance” operations.

Senate leaders call for prayer, unity, and sacrifice as Muslims mark Eid-El-Kabir

Senate leaders have urged Nigerians to use the Eid-El-Kabir celebration to pray for peace, security, and national unity, while reflecting on the values of sacrifice and tolerance exemplified by Prophet Ibrahim.
President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, in a message through his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Hon. Eseme Eyiboh, felicitated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, and Muslims across Nigeria and globally. He described the festival as a reminder of “devotion, selflessness, and submission to divine will,” values he said Nigeria urgently needs.
Akpabio called on citizens to pray for troops on the frontlines, farmers returning to their fields, and for unity to prevail over division. He added that the Renewed Hope Agenda, backed by the National Assembly, rests on the principle that meaningful progress often requires collective sacrifice.
Deputy Senate President Barau I. Jibrin, in a separate Sallah message signed by his Special Adviser Malam Ismail Mudashir, congratulated Muslims and Nigerian pilgrims in Saudi Arabia. He urged sustained prayers for peace, stability, and prosperity, and called on Nigerians to support President Tinubu’s efforts to address the country’s challenges.
Leader of the Senate, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, warned political actors against inciting violence ahead of the 2027 elections, citing Armed Conflict Location and Event Data that recorded 1,639 deaths from electoral violence between 1999 and 2023. He said no Nigerian should lose their life because of political ambitions and urged adherence to the rule of law during campaigns.
Bamidele also called for prayers for children, parents, and teachers still held in captivity by bandits, particularly the 87 victims recently kidnapped in Borno and Oyo states. He reiterated the National Assembly’s commitment to strengthening security and social protection systems to safeguard lives and property.
Former Senate President Ahmad Ibrahim Lawan said Eid-El-Kabir should inspire a national rebirth anchored on personal sacrifice, unity, and empathy. He challenged leaders to place national interest above personal gain and urged Nigerians to remain steadfast in prayers for President Tinubu and other leaders.
Senator Solomon Adeola, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Appropriations and APC governorship candidate for Ogun State in 2027, asked Muslims to pray for peace and the consolidation of gains under the Renewed Hope Agenda. He said adherence to Islamic teachings on sacrifice, love, and peaceful coexistence would help Nigeria overcome systemic challenges.
All the leaders concluded their messages with wishes for a peaceful and memorable Eid, urging citizens to extend support to the less privileged and to recommit to building a united and prosperous Nigeria.

Troops kill two ISWAP fighters in ambush operation in Yobe State

Troops of the 27 Task Force Brigade Garrison, in collaboration with the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) and local hunters, have neutralised two suspected Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists in an ambush operation in Gujba Local Government Area of Yobe State.
The operation was carried out under Operation HADIN KAI as part of ongoing counterterrorism efforts in the North-East.
According to a Special Situation Report from Headquarters Sector 2, Operation HADIN KAI, the ambush followed credible intelligence on the movement of suspected terrorists around Kasaicia village along the Damaturu–Buni Yadi road.
Military sources said the troops laid an ambush at about 4:00 p.m. on May 27 and successfully engaged the terrorists as they attempted to move through the area.
Two insurgents were killed in the encounter, while weapons and ammunition were recovered from the scene, including two AK-47 rifles and empty magazines.
Security officials confirmed that the situation in the area remains under control, with troops maintaining heightened surveillance and operational readiness.
Authorities say the continued operations are part of efforts to deny terrorist groups freedom of movement and disrupt their activities across Yobe and neighbouring states.

COAS tasks troops to intensify offensive against criminal elements in North Central

The Chief of Army Staff, , has charged troops of Joint Task Force North Central, Operation Savannah Shield, to sustain and intensify ongoing operations aimed at decisively neutralising kidnappers, bandits, and other criminal elements operating in the region.
He gave the charge on Thursday, 28 May 2026, during an operational visit to the Headquarters of the Joint Task Force in Ilorin, Kwara State, where he addressed personnel at Sobi Barracks.
In a statement issued by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, , the Army said the visit underscored renewed leadership commitment to strengthening operational effectiveness and morale of troops engaged in internal security operations.
The COAS reiterated that the Nigerian Army remains fully committed to its constitutional responsibility of safeguarding lives and property, noting that ongoing operations have continued to degrade the activities of criminal groups across Kwara, Niger, and surrounding states.
He further assured that additional combat enablers and logistical support would be deployed to enhance clearance operations and dismantle criminal hideouts within the Joint Operations Area.
Earlier, the Theatre Commander of Operation Savannah Shield, , commended the COAS for his visit and continued support, describing it as a major boost to ongoing counter-insurgency efforts. He assured that troops would remain committed, disciplined, and focused on restoring lasting peace and stability in the region.
The Army Chief also emphasized troop welfare, stating that improved conditions for personnel and their families remain central to sustaining morale, discipline, and operational effectiveness across all theatres of operation.

NDC clears all aspirants, sets stage for nationwide primary elections

 

 

The Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, is rolling out the red carpet for all aspirants. No one got knocked out in the screening round, and the party says everyone who bought an Expression of Interest Form is good to go for the primary elections across the country.

 

The National Executive Committee, NEC, announced that only successful candidates from the primary eldctions will move to the next step. Those winners will be allowed to buy and submit Nomination Forms. For now, there will be no sale of Nomination Forms until after the primary elections.

 

State Chairmen have their marching orders. They are to set up Local Organising Committees to work with Electoral Committees and run the primaries in every local government area. Chairmen are also expected to coordinate with INEC EPIMS officials, electoral officers, and other stakeholders to keep things smooth.

 

Security is top of the list. The party directed State Chairmen to put proper arrangements in place to ensure the process is peaceful and credible.

 

Meetings are happening today. State Chairmen will meet with Electoral Committees, State Executives, major stakeholders, and all aspirants to plan for a hitch-free primary tomorrow.

 

When the votes are counted, only the national office will announce the results.

 

The statement was signed by Osa Director, NDC National Publicity Secretary. Conclave.

ADC chieftain sues AGF, INEC over manual collation clause in Electoral Act

 

 

A prominent ADC chieftain and human rights lawyer, Dr. Jezie Ekejiuba, has sued the Attorney General of the Federation and INEC over the provision, allowing manual collation of election results in the Electoral Act 2026.

 

Ekejiuba filed suit FHC/AWK/CS/102/2026 on March 31, 2026, at the Federal High Court, Awka Judicial Division. He is asking the court to nullify the proviso to Section 60(3) of the Act, arguing it conflicts with the 1999 Constitution as amended.

 

The suit seeks a judicial interpretation of Sections 4(2), 78, 118, and Paragraph 15(a) of the Third Schedule Part 1F of the Constitution. Ekejiuba, who is also president of the Nigerian Voters Organisation, contends that INEC alone has the constitutional power to decide how election results are transmitted and collated, including in emergency situations.

 

He is asking the court to declare the proviso illegal, unconstitutional, null and void. He also wants an order striking it down and a perpetual injunction restraining the AGF and INEC from applying or enforcing it in any election.

 

According to the suit, the proviso states that if electronic transmission fails due to communication issues, Form EC8A shall remain the primary source for collation and declaration of results. Ekejiuba argues this creates a speculative law that usurps INEC’s constitutional powers and opens the door to manual manipulation of results.

 

He maintains that the principal provision of Section 60(3) already mandates compulsory electronic transmission of polling unit results to the INEC Results Viewing portal. He adds that Section 24(2) of the Act provides for postponement of elections in emergency situations, making the proviso unnecessary.

 

Ekejiuba cites several Supreme Court and Court of Appeal decisions to argue that any Nigerian citizen can approach the court to protect the Constitution from violation. He says his rights as a registered voter and ADC member give him sufficient interest in the conduct of free and fair elections.

 

The suit was supported by a 34-paragraph affidavit, three exhibits, and a written address. The case is fixed for hearing on June 8, 2026 before Justice Evelyn N. Anyadike at Court 1.

[Adapted from News Express]

Eid-el-Kabir: FG approves 50% fare discount for train services

 

 

THE Federal Government has approved a 50 per cent fare discount on all train services as part of measures to ease transportation costs for Nigerians during the Eid-el-Kabir celebration.

 

This is contained in a statement issued by Gift Osima, Information and Public Relations Officer, Federal Ministry of Transportation on Tuesday in Abuja.

 

Osima quoted the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Funsho Adebiyi, as saying that the discount would take effect from Tuesday, May 26, and run through Monday, June 1.

 

According to Adebiyi, ticket fares on all Nigeria Railway Corporation (NRC) passenger train services across the country have been reduced by 50 per cent of the existing approved rates within the stated period.

 

He said passengers who had earlier purchased tickets at the full fare before the announcement would be entitled to a 50 per cent rebate, usable for train rides on or before Monday, June 1.

 

“Train schedules and timetables remain as previously advertised,” he added.

 

Adebiyi, therefore, appreciated the continued support of Nigerians and wished all passengers and Muslim faithful a peaceful and joyous Eid-el-Kabir celebration. (NAN)