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International, National

U.S. Embassy Cancels Visa Appointments in Abuja Amid Rising Security Concerns

The United States Embassy in Abuja has announced the cancellation of all visa appointments, directing affected applicants to check their emails for information on rescheduled dates. In a notice issued on Thursday, the Embassy stated that visa operations would, however, continue at the U.S. Consulate General in Lagos. It also noted that services for American citizens remain available by appointment or in emergency situations. The development follows a decision by the United States Department of State to authorize the departure of non-emergency U.S. government employees and their family members from the Embassy in Abuja, citing a deteriorating security situation across Nigeria. In an updated travel advisory, the Department urged American citizens to reconsider travel to Nigeria due to concerns over crime, terrorism, kidnapping, and civil unrest. Read Also: Trump Acknowledges Muslims Are Also Killed in Nigeria The advisory placed Nigeria under “Level 3: Reconsider Travel,” while designating some states as “Level 4: Do Not Travel,” the highest warning level. “On April 8, 2026, the Department of State authorized non-emergency U.S. government employees and their family members to leave the U.S. Embassy in Abuja due to the deteriorating security situation,” the advisory stated. It further cautioned that “reconsider travel to Nigeria due to crime, terrorism, unrest, kidnapping, and inconsistent availability of health care services. Some areas have increased risk.” States listed under the highest risk category include Borno, Jigawa, Kogi, Kwara, Niger, Plateau, Taraba, Yobe, and northern parts of Adamawa, largely due to terrorism, crime, and kidnapping. Other states such as Bauchi, Gombe, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Sokoto, and Zamfara were also flagged, with concerns centered on unrest, criminal activities, and abductions. The move signals heightened concern by U.S. authorities over the evolving security landscape in Nigeria.

National, News, Politics

Sule Lamido Criticizes Atiku, Obi, Kwankwaso Over Masses’ Neglect, Vows to Remain in PDP

Former Jigawa State Governor, Sule Lamido, has expressed sharp criticism of key political figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Senator Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, and former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi, accusing them of abandoning their parties for personal interests rather than for the benefit of the people. Speaking to journalists, Lamido said that even while in office, these leaders failed to show proper respect for the masses who voted for them. “Leaders must honor the trust of the people,” he said, adding that their recent moves to switch parties demonstrate a disregard for the electorate. Lamido, who has remained in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), reaffirmed his commitment to the party, stressing his desire to work from within to bring about meaningful change. Read Also: Kano in Tight Corner as Deputy Governor Nomination Sparks Divisions Ex-Kano South Senator Gaya Dumps APC for ADC Kano Champions North-West Social Protection Plan Amid Funding Challenges His remarks come shortly after chieftains of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) staged a protest at the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) headquarters in Abuja, signaling rising political tensions among Nigeria’s opposition parties. Lamido concluded by emphasizing the need for politicians to prioritize the welfare and aspirations of the citizens, rather than personal ambitions or political expediency.

National, Politics

New ADC Faction Surfaces, Moves to Take Charge Ahead of Convention

A fresh leadership crisis has erupted within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) following the emergence of a new faction rejecting the authority of a coalition reportedly led by David Mark. The faction, led by Don Norman Obinna, also distanced itself from the group associated with Nafiu Bala, insisting it represents the legitimate National Executive Committee (NEC) of the party. Speaking during a press briefing in Abuja on Tuesday, the group said it was stepping in to take charge of the party’s affairs ahead of the next national convention. According to the faction, the tenure of former party chairman, Ralph Nwosu, ended in August 2022, adding that his continued stay in office had led to multiple litigations. Read Also: Kano in Tight Corner as Deputy Governor Nomination Sparks Divisions “The tenure of Ralph Nwosu, who handed the party to the David Mark group, ended in August 2022, and afterwards he faced a series of litigations due to his failure to step down,” the group stated. The faction also clarified the status of Nafiu Bala, maintaining that he never held the position of National Vice Chairman within the party. It further affirmed that former ADC presidential candidate, Dumebi Kachikwu, remains a member of the party. The group disclosed that it had constituted a set of interim leaders to oversee party activities and ensure continuity pending the conduct of a national convention. The development comes amid a protracted leadership dispute within the ADC, with multiple factions laying claim to the party’s structure and legitimacy. Meanwhile, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is reported to have withdrawn recognition of the party leadership aligned with David Mark, further complicating the internal crisis. The situation underscores growing divisions within the party as stakeholders continue to contest control ahead of future political engagements.

National, News

National Police Day: Police Must Rise Above Misconduct, Says IGP Disu

The Inspector General of Police Olatunji Disu has paid glowing tribute to officers of the Nigeria Police Force who lost their lives in the line of duty, assuring their families of continued support from the Force. Disu also issued a stern warning to erring officers, stressing that misconduct will not be tolerated, regardless of rank or influence. He made this known while speaking at the second edition of the National Police Day, the first under his leadership where he reiterated that every life lost in service remains a moral burden on the conscience of the Force. According to him, each fallen officer represents a call for renewed commitment to professionalism, discipline, and service. The IGP emphasised the importance of collaboration in modern policing, urging traditional rulers, community leaders, civil society organisations, and the media to strengthen partnerships with the Police in ensuring national security. Read Also: Meet Prof. Ogunsakin and His Team on State Police Creation Speaking at the event, Disu said he stood before Nigerians with a deep sense of responsibility, noting that the moment presents an opportunity to redefine the future of policing in the country. He expressed appreciation to Bola Ahmed Tinubu for institutionalising the National Police Day, describing it as a demonstration of confidence in the Police Force’s capacity for reform and improved service delivery. The Police chief further paid tribute to fallen officers, describing them as heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to the nation. “They did not die for applause or recognition, but for duty, for country, and for all of us,” he said, assuring that their sacrifices would not be in vain. Addressing officers and men of the Force, Disu acknowledged the risks and challenges they face but insisted that the institution must rise above indiscipline and misconduct. He warned that rank or uniform would not shield any officer found guilty of wrongdoing, declaring that accountability under his leadership would be firm, fair, and without exception. “Authority will never override the rule of law. There will be no sacred cows,” he stated. The IGP, however, assured that officers who demonstrate professionalism and integrity would receive the necessary support, including improved welfare, training, and operational equipment. He also addressed Nigerians directly, acknowledging concerns over police-public relations and pledging efforts to rebuild trust. According to him, the Force is committed to becoming more accountable, disciplined, and people-oriented. He noted that reforms are already underway, including the introduction of new mechanisms for internal discipline, increased investment in training and technology, and enhanced community engagement. Disu reiterated that the Nigeria Police Force is being repositioned into an intelligence-led, technology-driven, and community-focused institution capable of addressing contemporary security challenges. He reiterated that policing in the 21st century must evolve, assuring that the Force is taking deliberate steps to modernise its operations and uphold professionalism and respect for human rights.

National, News

Tinubu Appoints New PTDF Boss, Renews TCN CEO Tenure

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has appointed Professor Shu’aibu Shehu Aliyu as the new Executive Secretary of the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF), while also renewing the tenure of Sule Ahmed Abdulaziz as Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN). The appointments were disclosed in a statement issued on Thursday by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, noting that both decisions take immediate effect. Professor Aliyu replaces Ahmed Galadima Aminu, who recently resigned from the PTDF to pursue his governorship ambition in Adamawa State ahead of the 2027 general elections. The Presidency described the new PTDF helmsman as a distinguished academic and seasoned administrator with vast experience in research, education, and institutional leadership. It added that his appointment underscores President Tinubu’s commitment to strengthening key institutions within Nigeria’s petroleum sector. Read Also: UNICEF Raises Alarm Over Child Poverty as States Push Social Protection Reforms According to the statement, the President expects Aliyu to leverage his expertise to reposition the PTDF for greater impact, particularly in human capital development, innovation, and strategic support for the nation’s oil and gas industry in line with national priorities. In the power sector, President Tinubu also approved the renewal of Engineer Abdulaziz’s appointment as Managing Director/CEO of the Transmission Company of Nigeria for a second and final term, following what was described as a comprehensive assessment of his performance. Under Abdulaziz’s leadership, the TCN has recorded notable improvements in grid stability, expansion of transmission capacity, and the modernisation of the national grid infrastructure. The Presidency further highlighted Abdulaziz’s over three decades of experience in the power sector, as well as his role in advancing regional electricity integration through engagements within the West African Power Pool (WAPP). President Tinubu charged both appointees to discharge their responsibilities with diligence, integrity, and a strong sense of national service, in line with his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

Education, National, Plateau

UNIJOS Orders Students to Vacate Hostels Amid Rising Tension in Jos

The University of Jos has directed all students to immediately vacate its hostels following heightened security tensions in Jos, the Plateau State capital. The directive, issued on Wednesday, follows fresh violence reported in parts of the city earlier in the day, during which several people were allegedly attacked and killed. The institution said the decision was taken after a careful assessment of the prevailing security situation, prioritising the safety of students and staff. In a circular signed by the Deputy Registrar (Information and Public Relations), Emmanuel Madugu, on behalf of the Registrar, the university disclosed that the evacuation exercise would be carried out in two phases. Read Also: 2027: INEC de-lists David Mark-led ADC NWC Radiographers Oppose Health Bills, Warn of Threat to Professional Autonomy Jos Boils Again: Fresh Attacks Reported After Curfew Lift According to the circular, Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, has provided transportation to facilitate the evacuation process, with the vehicles authorised to operate beyond the curfew hours. “Students whose parents or guardians reside within Jos and its environs will be evacuated on Wednesday from 3:00 p.m., while those whose parents or guardians live outside Jos and its environs will be evacuated on Thursday,” the statement read. The university management assured that adequate security measures have been put in place to safeguard hostels and other campus facilities during the evacuation period. The Vice-Chancellor also reassured stakeholders that efforts are ongoing to explore all available options to ensure the safety and stability of the institution. The development comes days after a deadly attack in the Anguwan Rukuba community, which resulted in multiple fatalities and heightened tension across the state. The incident had earlier prompted authorities to impose a curfew in Jos North Local Government Area and led to the postponement of examinations at the university.

National, News, Politics

2027: INEC de-lists David Mark-led ADC NWC

The Independent National Electoral Commission has resolved to remove the names of the National Working Committee of the African Democratic Congress led by David Mark from its official portal, in compliance with a Court of Appeal order. INEC disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday, stressing that it would maintain the status quo ante bellum pending the determination of a substantive suit before the Federal High Court in Abuja. The decision follows a protracted leadership crisis within the ADC, with rival factions led by Nafiu Bala Gombe and Mark laying claim to the party’s national structure. According to the commission, the appellate court, in a judgment delivered on March 12, 2026, directed all parties to maintain the existing situation before the dispute arose and refrain from actions that could prejudice the outcome of the case. Read Also: Former VP Atiku Visits Kwankwaso After Joining ADC Tinubu Meets Ganduje, Badaru in Separate Aso Rock Consultations Ex-Kano Deputy Governor Gawuna Completes ADC Registration, Receives Membership Card “That the Commission would, in accordance with the Order of the Court of Appeal in Appeal No. CA/ABJ/145/2026 refrain from taking any step or doing any act capable of foisting a fait accompli on the court or otherwise rendering nugatory the proceedings before the trial court, having regard to all the processes filed before the trial Court,”the statement read. INEC explained that although the names of the current NWC members were uploaded on its portal on September 9, 2025, the action was taken after the suit had already been filed on September 2, 2025. It noted that, in line with the court order, the names would now be removed pending the resolution of the matter. “Since the names of the current National Working Committee members led by Senator David Mark were uploaded on 9th September, 2025 by INEC (7 days after the suit was instituted), the names would be removed from the INEC portal pursuant to the order of the Court of Appeal to maintain the status quo ante bellum until the matter is decided by the trial court,” INEC said. The commission also rejected a request by Bala’s camp to recognise him as acting national chairman, stating that granting such a request would violate the court’s directive. INEC further announced that it would suspend all engagements with the party’s factions, including monitoring of meetings, congresses, or conventions, until the court delivers a final ruling. “The Commission shall not receive any further communication or deal with any of the parties or groups pertaining to the affairs of the party,” it added. The electoral body reiterated its commitment to neutrality and strict adherence to judicial pronouncements, urging political actors to avoid actions capable of disrupting preparations for the 2027 general elections. The leadership tussle in the ADC has triggered a series of legal battles, with both factions approaching the courts to assert control over the party’s structure. (Punch)

National, News, Politics

Former VP Atiku Visits Kwankwaso After Joining ADC

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has visited former Kano State Governor, Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso, at his residence. Atiku disclosed this in a statement he posted via his Facebook page on Wednesday. Read Also: Tinubu Meets Ganduje, Badaru in Separate Aso Rock Consultations Kano Political Shift: Ganduje Hails Reps’ Defection to APC Ex-Kano Deputy Governor Gawuna Completes ADC Registration, Receives Membership Card According to him, the discussions between them focused on the progress of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), and how to ensure good governance. ‘The Historica Nigeria‘ had reported that Kwankwaso, recently joined the ADC after resigning from the New Nigerian Peoples Party (NNPP).

National, News

Tinubu Meets Ganduje, Badaru in Separate Aso Rock Consultations

By Umar Idris Shuaibu President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Tuesday received former National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, and former Minister of Defence, Muhammadu Badaru Abubakar, in separate meetings at the Presidential Villa, Abuja. Both visits were held behind closed doors at the Aso Rock Presidential Villa, with neither of the political figures disclosing the purpose of their engagements with the President. Correspondents observed Dr. Ganduje, dressed in babanriga, departing the State House at about 4:15 p.m., while Badaru left roughly 15 minutes later at 4:30 p.m., suggesting that the meetings were separate consultations rather than a joint audience. Ganduje served as APC National Chairman from August 2023 until July 2025, when he stepped down from the position. He was subsequently succeeded by Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, who was elected as substantive chairman during the party’s 4th Elective National Convention held on March 27, 2026, at Eagle Square, Abuja. Read Also: APC Unveils Full NWC List as Yilwatda, Basiru Retain Top Positions Why Engr. Abba Ganduje is Still Needed in Dawakin Tofa Federal Constituency APC Northwest Congress: Ganduje Attends Key Party Gathering in Kaduna Prior to his emergence as party chairman, Ganduje served as Governor of Kano State between 2015 and 2023. Badaru, on the other hand, is a former Governor of Jigawa State (2015–2023) and recently resigned from his role as Minister of Defence in Tinubu’s administration. Political observers believe the separate meetings may not be unconnected with ongoing consultations within the APC following its recent national convention, as well as possible strategic alignments ahead of future political engagements. Both Ganduje and Badaru remain influential figures within the ruling party and are regarded as key allies of President Tinubu since the formation of the APC in 2013.

National, News, Politics

Court Ends NNPP Crisis, Restores Party Leadership to Founder

The Court of Appeal sitting in Owerri has delivered a decisive judgement in the protracted leadership crisis within the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), affirming Boniface Okechukwu Aniebonam as the recognised leader of the party. In its ruling, the appellate court set aside an earlier decision of the Abia State High Court in Uzuakoli, which had vacated its previous judgement delivered in favour of the faction led by Aniebonam. The appellate court held that the lower court erred in granting a motion that effectively reversed its own earlier judgement, thereby upholding all three grounds of appeal filed by the Aniebonam-led faction. The dispute stems from a November 2024 judgement of the Uzuakoli High Court in Suit No. HUZ/11/2024, which had recognised the Board of Trustees of the NNPP under Aniebonam. However, in June 2025, the same court granted an application that set aside that ruling, following a motion filed by Rabi’u Musa Kwankwaso. Read Also: Radiographers Oppose Health Bills, Warn of Threat to Professional Autonomy Ex-Kano Deputy Governor Gawuna Dumps APC, Signals Possible New Alignment APC Founded to Drive Change, Reduce Poverty — Tinubu Dissatisfied with the reversal, the Aniebonam faction approached the Court of Appeal in Owerri (Appeal No. CA/OW/271/2025), arguing that the trial judge lacked the jurisdiction to sit on appeal over his own judgement. Delivering its verdict, the Court of Appeal agreed with the appellants, restoring the earlier judgement and effectively recognising Aniebonam as the legitimate leader of the party he founded in 2001. Legal representation in the matter saw Onitsha-based senior counsel, Sir Azubike Anazor, appear for Aniebonam, while Abuja-based Eyitayo Fatogun, SAN, represented Kwankwaso. The NNPP, which fielded Kwankwaso as its presidential candidate in the 2023 general elections, has been embroiled in internal disputes over its leadership structure, with rival factions laying claim to control of the party.

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