PDP LAUNCHES NATIONWIDE DIGITAL MEMBERSHIP DRIVE
ABUJA – The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has announced the commencement of…
DEFENCE MINISTER RECEIVES “AMBASSADOR OF FAIR PLAY” AWARD, PLEDGES CONTINUED SPORTS SUPPORT
ABUJA – The Honourable Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Gwabin Musa (rtd.)…
AMAECHI DECLARES PRESIDENTIAL AMBITION ON ADC PLATFORM AMIDST ATTACK CONCERNS
Benin City – Former Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi, on Friday declared his intention to contest for the office of president in next year’s election. Amaechi made the announcement during the South-South Zonal Leadership Committee meeting of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) at the GRA residence of the party’s National Leader, John Odigie-Oyegun, in Benin City. At the same meeting, Odigie-Oyegun expressed significant doubts regarding the Nigerian police’s ability to apprehend those responsible for the attack on the ADC secretariat and his personal residence in Benin City on Tuesday, February 24, 2026. While fielding questions from journalists after the zonal meeting, Odigie-Oyegun stated, “I am not sure if an arrest has been made. I am also not sure if an arrest will be made considering the nature of the event.” He highlighted the brazenness of the incident, remarking, “Imagine people bearing arms in broad daylight and were seen and no one has been arrested up till now.” Odigie-Oyegun further revealed that timely intelligence from security agencies prevented a worse outcome, saying, “It was the security agencies that gave us a hint of the attack that saved us. We had to quickly bring the programme to an end. We barely got to my house and we had that the secretariat had been attacked by thugs bearing arms. If we were still there when they attacked the secretariat, we won’t be saying what we are saying now.” Odigie-Oyegun affirmed the ADC’s readiness for the upcoming January election and urged the government to ensure peace and eschew violence leading up to the polls. He emphasized the party’s commitment to making itself the preferred choice for Nigerians, asserting that "the public is on the side of his party" and that this marks "the first time a party is put together at the behest of the masses." He added, “With what is happening in our nation, an emergency rescue is needed and as a party we will ensure that Nigerians remain the crux of governance.” Odigie-Oyegun also called upon leaders and party members within the zone to foster unity and leverage collective experience to make the region exemplary.
OYO COURT UPHOLDS PDP 2025 CONVENTION RESULTS AMIDST TARABA CRISIS
Ibadan, Oyo State – The Oyo State High Court in Ibadan has officially upheld the results of the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) 2025 convention, which was held on November 15 and 16, 2025. Justice Ladiran Akintola of Court 5 delivered the ruling on Friday, dismissing requests from Nwachukwu and others who had sought to pause the proceedings. The judgment approved all 13 claims brought by the claimant, Folahan Malomo Adelabi, through his lawyer, Musbau Adetunmbi. This decision legally recognizes the leadership of the party, including the Dr. Taminu Turaki-led National Working Committee elected at the convention. The ruling effectively concludes disputes surrounding the validity of the convention and confirms the party’s internal election results in Ibadan. In related news, the PDP in Taraba State has been plunged into a fresh crisis. A newly formed 16-member State Caretaker Committee has issued a directive for members of the dissolved State Working Committee (SWC) to vacate the party’s state secretariat. Naija News reported on Thursday evening that the directive was made public in a statement by the Caretaker Committee chairman, Dr. Falack Victor. Dr. Victor asserted that the former SWC members "no longer have the right to remain in the secretariat following their removal from office" and warned that non-compliance could lead to legal action against them. He further stated that "remaining in the party office after a lawful dissolution goes against the law."
CHAMPIONS LEAGUE DRAW SETS UP CITY-REAL MADRID SHOWDOWN
Nyon, Switzerland – The UEFA Champions League (UCL) last 16 draw, held on Friday in Nyon, Switzerland, has set the stage for a highly anticipated rekindling of rivalry between Manchester City and Real Madrid. This upcoming clash marks their sixth knockout meeting since the 2019/2020 UCL season, promising another heavyweight showdown. Manchester City previously edged the 15-time European champions 2-1 during December’s group stage clash. Defending champions Paris Saint-Germain are set to confront Chelsea in a repeat of last season’s heated Club World Cup final, which was won by the English side. Both teams have expressed confidence ahead of this eagerly awaited tie. Premier League leaders Arsenal will face Bayer Leverkusen. Arsenal secured this matchup after topping their league phase with eight straight victories, successfully avoiding some of Europe’s biggest heavyweights in the draw. Bayern Munich, who finished as runners-up in their group stage, will take on Atalanta. Atalanta notably eliminated Borussia Dortmund with a stoppage-time penalty during the playoffs, showcasing their formidable challenge. Elsewhere in the draw, Newcastle United will meet Barcelona once again, adding another layer of history to their European encounters. Liverpool is slated to battle Galatasaray. Struggling Tottenham Hotspur will face Atletico Madrid, while Norway’s giant-killers, Bodo/Glimt, are set to square off against Sporting Lisbon. The full Last-16 Fixtures are: Real Madrid v Manchester City; Bodo/Glimt v Sporting; PSG v Chelsea; Newcastle v Barcelona; Galatasaray v Liverpool; Atletico v Tottenham; Atalanta v Bayern; and Leverkusen v Arsenal. That the quarter-final and semi-final pairings were also confirmed during the draw, hinting at potential blockbuster clashes as Europe’s elite clubs continue their pursuit of Champions League glory.
FRSC INITIATES SWEEPING INTERNAL REFORM TO COMBAT INDISCIPLINE
Abuja – The Corps Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Shehu Mohammed, has launched a comprehensive internal reform initiative aimed at overhauling the culture, conduct, and command structure of the Corps nationwide. This move signals a zero-tolerance stance on indiscipline and public misconduct. Described by insiders as one of the most extensive internal resets in recent years, the directive mandates the immediate deployment of the Corps Management Team to field commands across the country. This deployment is for a structured retreat and operational reorientation, with a clear message from headquarters that "professionalism is not optional." The reform blueprint outlines a nationwide engagement to systematically reassess operational standards, tighten supervisory accountability, and directly address all forms of incivility and unprofessional behavior towards the public. Sources indicate that the Corps Marshal has made it "unequivocally clear that any action capable of eroding public trust or tarnishing the Corps’ statutory mandate will attract swift and decisive sanctions." The reform agenda begins with an internal recalibration. Commanding Officers across all formations have been directed to institutionalize renewed performance benchmarks, enforce strict compliance with the Corps’ code of conduct, and standardize enforcement procedures to eliminate operational inconsistencies. Beyond internal directives, the Management Team will also directly engage with critical stakeholders and the public during the nationwide tour. This initiative aims to gather unfiltered feedback on service delivery, enforcement style, and officer conduct on Nigerian roads. Observers view this field-level engagement as a strategic shift towards a citizen-centered road safety administration, where internal discipline aligns with respectful public interaction. A core tenet of the reform is a stern warning: "any personnel found culpable of misconduct, abuse of authority or actions capable of bringing the Corps into disrepute will face immediate disciplinary action in line with established regulations." The Corps Marshal is reportedly pushing for a cultural shift from mere enforcement to a "humane, professional and service-driven road safety management." Given the FRSC's frequent interaction with the public, the stakes for this reform are high. Roadside encounters significantly influence public perception and trust, which in turn impacts cooperation. By deploying his top management to the field, Mohammed is determined to solidify discipline within the ranks and restore public confidence in the Corps as a responsive and people-oriented institution. If successfully executed, this reform could redefine not only how the FRSC enforces traffic laws but also how it is perceived and trusted by millions of Nigerians using the nation’s highways daily.
105 BODIES EXHUMED FROM MASS GRAVES IN BENUE STATE
Yelwata, Benue State – Federal forensic specialists have exhumed 105 bodies from multiple mass graves in the Yelwata community, Guma Local Government Area of Benue State. This recovery is part of an ongoing investigation into the June 13, 2025 assault on the area. Security insiders revealed that a team, led by Professor Saad Ahmed of the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) in Abuja, arrived in Yelwata on February 23, 2026. The delegation was accompanied by operatives of the Intelligence Response Team (IRT) from Abuja and members of the Presidential Medical Delegation, working in conjunction with officials from the Benue State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA). The burial sites were identified on February 23 under tight security provided by the Benue State Police Command. Excavation commenced on February 24, with seven bodies initially retrieved. Operations continued on February 25 and 26, leading to the exhumation of more remains. In total, 105 bodies were recovered from 13 separate mass graves located within and around Yelwata. The exercise concluded on February 26. Police sources explained that the recovery was crucial for forensic investigations and to strengthen evidence in the prosecution of individuals allegedly connected to the killings. A security source stated, “Seven corpses were initially exhumed by the IRT-led federal investigators for inquest. The exercise continued and further development will be communicated.” This forensic deployment follows proceedings at the Federal High Court in Abuja, where nine suspects were arraigned on February 2, 2026, before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik over their alleged involvement in the Yelwata attack. The court had emphasized the necessity of scientific evidence to ensure due process and proper attribution of responsibility. Security authorities confirmed that adequate arrangements were put in place to maintain peace and prevent any interference throughout the operation. The June 13, 2025 violence in Yelwata reportedly claimed several lives and forced many residents to flee, causing nationwide outrage and renewed calls for accountability. The Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation had previously initiated legal action against suspects arrested in connection with the incident. Officials assured that more information would be released as the investigation progresses.
ADAMAWA GOVERNOR FINTIRI DEFECTS TO APC, ONANUGA TAKES AIM AT ATIKU
Adamawa State Governor, Umaru Fintiri, has announced his defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), a move he declared in a statewide broadcast on Friday morning. Fintiri stated that his decision was made "in the interest of Adamawa people and to attract more development to the state," emphasizing that "working closely with the federal government would help bring more projects and benefits to residents." The governor also disclosed that his defection was accompanied by several members of the State House of Assembly, commissioners, and party officials who have also moved to the ruling party. This mass defection is anticipated to strengthen the APC's political structure within Adamawa State. Reacting to the announcement, Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser on Information and Strategy to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, took to his social media page to direct comments at former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, who also hails from Adamawa State. Onanuga stated that "any politician who lacks strong backing in his home state should not attempt to market himself to the rest of the country," a comment widely interpreted as a direct jab at Atiku. This development has ignited fresh political discussions across Adamawa State, which has historically been a strong base for the PDP. Governor Fintiri's decision signifies a notable shift in the state’s political alignment.
NWABALI’S U.S. ACT OF KINDNESS UNCONFIRMED AMID CLUB UNCERTAINTY
A heartwarming tale featuring Super Eagles goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali has been widely circulated on social media, claiming he purchased a taxi and secured an apartment for a homeless Nigerian man in the United States. However, the authenticity of this story remains unconfirmed, with Nwabali yet to comment publicly on the alleged incident. The circulating narrative suggests that Nwabali, while on vacation, recognized a taxi driver who had previously driven him from the airport. The driver had reportedly been robbed, losing everything, and was living on the streets. Moved by compassion, Nwabali is said to have purchased him a new taxi and found him an apartment. The story depicts the driver as being "overwhelmed by the unexpected kindness" and vowing to offer free rides to all Nigerians, a gesture Nwabali "humbly declined." Despite its widespread sharing, no major news outlets or official sources have verified the account. The initial online report was traced to Naija Blitz News, which cited a Facebook post by "Nigeria Circle post" as its origin. The absence of confirmation from Nwabali or his representatives leaves the story unsubstantiated. This unverified act of kindness comes at a time of significant uncertainty in Nwabali’s professional career. The goalkeeper is currently without a club after his departure from South African side Chippa United on February 5, 2026. Chippa United confirmed in an official statement that Nwabali "had formally requested to leave the club, and his request was granted," thanking him for his "years of service, commitment, and professionalism during his four-year spell with the Chilli Boys." Nwabali's mid-season exit without a new destination has raised concerns about his future with the Super Eagles. In a recent interview, he acknowledged the lack of concrete offers, stating, "There is no contract in front, there is no club in front, and I am not guaranteeing you that a club will come today or tomorrow." His current inactivity at club level has jeopardized his position as Nigeria's first-choice goalkeeper. Head coach Eric Chelle has omitted Nwabali from the squad for upcoming friendlies against Iran and Jordan, weakening the status of the once-undisputed starter. This situation has opened opportunities for competition from Maduka Okoye, who plays regularly in Serie A for Udinese, and Arthur Okonkwo, recently cleared by FIFA to represent Nigeria. Former Nigeria international Garba Lawal questioned the timing of Nwabali's decision, remarking, "I wonder what he was thinking when he requested to cancel his contract while having no offers on the table." Lawal emphasized the importance of competitive play, adding, "There's no way you can compare training to competitive matches. It's not good for him or the national team. Because as the first choice, he needs to be active." As the story of Nwabali's generosity continues to circulate, the reality of his professional circumstances remains uncertain. Without official confirmation, the inspiring tale remains an unauthenticated narrative during a challenging phase of his career.
SIX MEN ARRESTED FOR STAGING FAKE MIRACLES IN ONDO STATE
Idanre, Ondo State – Six men accused of posing as pastors and orchestrating fake miracles to defraud residents of the Idanre community in Ondo State have been arrested by the police. The suspects, identified as Fadahunsi, Kolade, Tijani, Iyanuoluwa, Arijesulola, and Ademola, were apprehended on February 16, 2026. According to a statement issued on Thursday by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Jimoh Kazeem, the arrests were made by operatives of the Command’s Tactical Teams in collaboration with Community Safety Officers, following an intelligence-led operation. Kazeem stated that the suspects allegedly "organised and executed fraudulent schemes by disguising themselves as religious leaders and exploiting the faith of unsuspecting members of the public." Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects "posed as pastors and religious leaders, staging fake miracles and spiritual interventions to gain the confidence and trust of their victims," the statement read. The group is accused of promising divine solutions to financial hardship, health challenges, and other personal problems, subsequently obtaining money and valuables from victims under false pretenses. Investigators further disclosed that the suspects reportedly operated in a coordinated structure, with each member assigned specific roles to project legitimacy and reinforce their illusion of spiritual authority. The Command has confirmed that efforts are underway to determine the total number of victims, assess the financial scale of the alleged fraud, and track down any possible accomplices. Kazeem added that "all the suspects are currently in police custody and will soon be charged to court upon the conclusion of the investigation." The police have issued a warning to residents, urging them to exercise caution and avoid individuals who use religion or claims of miraculous powers as a cover for criminal activities.
