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Afrobeat Pioneer Fela Kuti to Receive Posthumous Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award

By
Ola Akinola
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0

LAGOS – In a landmark recognition, the late Afrobeat legend Fela Anikulapo Kuti has been selected as a recipient of the Recording Academy’s Lifetime Achievement Award, set to be presented at the 2026 Grammys ceremony. The award marks a historic first, as Fela becomes the first African musician to ever receive this prestigious honor.

Historic Honor for an African Icon

The announcement was made on December 19,confirming that Fela will be celebrated alongside other global music icons, including Whitney Houston, Chaka Khan, Cher, and Paul Simon, at the Special Merit Awards Ceremony on January 31, 2026. The Lifetime Achievement Award is given to performers who have made “creative contributions of outstanding artistic significance to the field of recording”. This honor places the Nigerian icon in an elite group of past recipients such as The Beatles, Bob Marley, and Aretha Franklin.

The Legacy of the “Black President”

· Musical Revolutionary: Fela is hailed as the undisputed father of Afrobeat, a genre he pioneered by blending funk, jazz, and traditional West African rhythms with politically charged lyrics. His music was known for its expansive sound—featuring large bands of 30 or more musicians—and songs that could stretch to 45 minutes, breaking conventional industry rules.

· Fearless Activism: His art was inseparable from his activism. Nicknamed the “Black President,” Fela was a vocal critic of Nigeria’s military dictatorships and South African apartheid. His 1976 album Zombie, a scathing critique of the military, led to a violent raid on his Lagos compound by government forces. That same album was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in June 2025, foreshadowing this lifetime achievement honor.

· Enduring Influence: Although he was never nominated for a Grammy during his lifetime, his influence is immense and global. His music has inspired and been sampled by artists from Beyoncé and Burna Boy to Paul McCartney. His sons, Femi and Seun Kuti, have collectively received eight Grammy nominations, continuing his musical dynasty.

 

Key Details of the Award

 

· Award Recipient: Fela Anikulapo Kuti (Posthumous)

· Award: Recording Academy Lifetime Achievement Award

· Ceremony: Special Merit Awards Ceremony

· Date: January 31, 2026

· Grammy Telecast: 68th Annual Grammy Awards on February 1, 2026

· Significance: First African musician to receive this award

A Legacy Cemented

Fela’s son,Femi Kuti, who accepted the Hall of Fame award for Zombie earlier in 2025, stated that their “father’s legacy lives on” and that his music “continues to inspire and unite people across the world”. This Lifetime Achievement Award serves as a monumental, formal acknowledgment from the global music industry of Fela Kuti’s unparalleled role as both a musical architect and a fearless voice for social justice.

His legacy continues not only through music but also through cultural institutions like the Kalakuta Museum and the New Afrika Shrine in Lagos, ensuring that the spirit of the “Abami Eda” (the Strange One) endures for generations.

Army Launches 60 Housing Units in Ibadan, Offers Heavily Subsidized Homes to Troops

By
Ola Akinola
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0

IBADAN, OYO STATE – The Nigerian Army has inaugurated 60 new housing units in the Akobo area of Ibadan, a significant step in its mission to provide affordable homes for its personnel. In a landmark welfare initiative, 5% of these units have been allocated free of charge to soldiers who sustained permanent disabilities while serving the nation.

The project, launched under the Affordable Home Ownership Option for All Soldiers (AHOOAS) Scheme, is a core part of the Army’s “Soldier First” transformation agenda. According to an official statement by Army spokesperson Colonel Apollonia Anele, 70% of the housing units are reserved for soldiers at deeply subsidized rates, with homes valued at up to ₦30 million sold for as low as ₦7.5 million.

A Foundation for Dignity and Stability

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, who inaugurated the project, stated that access to decent and affordable housing is central to troop morale and operational effectiveness.

“The AHOOAS scheme is designed to ensure that soldiers retire in dignity, with secure home ownership in locations of their choice,” General Shaibu said. He emphasized that the initiative is a practical demonstration of the Army’s commitment to its personnel’s welfare, aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s broader vision.

The project in Ibadan marks the expansion of the scheme beyond its successful pilot phase in Idu, Abuja, which delivered over 400 units. The Army has announced plans to extend the program to other locations, including Benin, Jos, and Akwa Ibom.

Detailed Breakdown of the Housing Initiative

· Total Units Inaugurated: 60 flats (30 two-bedroom and 30 three-bedroom).

· Beneficiaries: Non-Commissioned Officers and Senior Non-Commissioned Officers.

· Pricing Model: A deliberate welfare intervention, not a commercial venture. Houses built at costs up to ₦30 million are sold to soldiers for ₦7.5 million.

· Special Allocation: 5% of units granted free to soldiers with permanent disabilities sustained in service.

· Subsidized Access: 70% of units reserved for soldiers at the highly subsidized rate.

Major General Isiah Alison, Managing Director of the Post Service Housing Development Limited (PHDL), the project executors, explained the scheme’s ethos. “This is a deliberate welfare intervention rather than a commercial venture,” he stated.

Supporting Families and Local Economies

Alongside the housing units, a new shopping complex was also inaugurated under the PHDL. This complex is designed to support small businesses run by soldiers’ families and stimulate local economic activity around military formations.

General Shaibu commended the Oyo State Government for its support and called on other state governments to facilitate the scheme’s expansion by allocating land for future phases. He also acknowledged the Family Homes Funds Limited for its partnership in constructing 50 housing units for widows of fallen heroes, a separate but complementary welfare project.

This housing initiative represents one of the most substantial, direct welfare investments for military personnel in recent years, aiming to provide long-term security and stability for those who serve the nation.

Akpabio Warns Senate Could Become Single-Party Chamber as Opposition Dwindles

By
Ola Akinola
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0

ABUJA – Senate President, Godswill Akpabio has raised a significant alarm over the state of Nigeria’s democracy, revealing that the Senate is on the verge of becoming a single-party chamber as opposition senators defect en masse to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Speaking at a plenary session, Akpabio disclosed that the opposition, which began with nearly 50 senators after the 2023 elections, has now been reduced to a mere handful.

Opposition on the Brink of Extinction

Akpabio provided a stark numerical account of the political realignment occurring in the upper legislative chamber. “When we came in, the opposition in the Senate was almost 50,” he stated. “Today, when I counted, there are about 5 or 4 left in the opposition.”

In a revelation that underscores the depth of the crisis, Akpabio added that even these remaining few are poised to cross over. “Even those five members have whispered to me that I should take them to the President as they are prepared to join the APC,” he said.

To prevent the complete collapse of a minority presence—a fundamental requirement for a vibrant democracy—Akpabio admitted to employing an unusual tactic. He has allowed some senators who have already defected to the APC in their home states to technically remain within the minority caucus in the Senate.

He cited the example of Enugu State, thanking Governor Peter Mbah for ensuring that Senator Osita Ngwu retained the position of Minority Chief Whip. “Otherwise, this place would have been empty,” Akpabio conceded.

Calls for Inclusivity Amid Political Monopoly

Facing the prospect of a near-total APC Senate, Akpabio emphasized the need for inclusive governance. He urged that all senators, regardless of their original party affiliation, must be carried along in legislative business.

“Stakeholders coming in from other political parties must be given equal opportunities to thrive. There must not be any discrimination,” the Senate President asserted.

He framed the current period as one of national growth accompanied by significant challenges. “This is a time of growth and challenge. With growth comes envy and jealousy, and with jealousy comes hatred,” Akpabio said, calling for unity and cooperation among all senators to address pressing national issues.

Broader Context and National Concerns

The near-total erosion of the opposition in the Senate occurs against a backdrop of ongoing national security and humanitarian challenges, which Akpabio also addressed. He praised the federal government for the recent release of over 100 kidnapped children while calling for prayers and continued action for those still in captivity.

Political analysts suggest that the mass defections reflect a broader trend of political realignment towards the ruling party at the national level, a phenomenon often attributed to the allure of power, patronage, and the weakening of opposition structures. Critics argue that a legislature without a robust opposition undermines accountability, healthy debate, and the checks and balances essential for a functioning democracy.

The Senate President’s unprecedented public admission highlights a critical juncture for Nigeria’s political landscape, raising fundamental questions about the future of multi-party democracy and robust legislative oversight in the country.

PDP Awaits Court Ruling on Leadership After INEC Meeting

By
Roland Edet
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0

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has said it will await the judgment of the Court of Appeal on its leadership tussle, following a lengthy meeting with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Friday.

 

The meeting, convened by INEC Chairman Prof. Joash Amupitan, brought together the Kabiru Turaki-led National Working Committee and the faction aligned with former Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike, as part of efforts to address the ongoing leadership crisis within the party.

 

In a statement issued by PDP National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Ini Ememobong, the party said both factions presented their positions extensively, but the commission acknowledged that the dispute is now before the Court of Appeal.

 

“The meeting was called to hear from both sides. INEC is aware of the pending court cases and will await the final judgment before taking further action,” the statement said.

 

Kabiru Turaki, the PDP National Chairman, reaffirmed his faction’s position as the authentic leadership of the party, stressing that while awaiting the court’s decision, the party would continue its role as an opposition force.

 

“As the authentic leadership that emerged from a valid convention, though contested in court, we will continue to perform the duties of an opposition party, holding the government accountable on critical issues such as security, infrastructure, education, and healthcare,” Turaki said.

 

The PDP’s position underscores the party’s intent to maintain operational continuity while respecting the judicial process in resolving its leadership disputes.

APC Hands Oyebamiji Certificate of Return, Vows Landslide Victory in Osun 2026

By
Roland Edet
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0

 

 

The All Progressives Congress (APC) on Friday formally presented the Certificate of Return to its Osun State governorship candidate, Bola Oyebamiji, ahead of the 2026 gubernatorial election.

 

Presenting the certificate, the APC National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, said Oyebamiji emerged through a rare consensus arrangement, describing the process as a demonstration of unity and maturity within the party.

 

“Just to inform the world, we have just minted a brand new candidate for the Osun governorship election,” Yilwatda said. “It was by consensus, which is unique compared to what happens in other political parties, where candidates often engage in divisive contests. Here, nine aspirants came together and agreed on one among them to represent the party.”

 

According to him, the consensus reflects the strong relationship among the aspirants and confidence in Oyebamiji’s ability to carry everyone along, not only during the campaign but also in governance.

 

“We are proud to announce that Bola Oyebamiji is the sole candidate of the APC for the 2026 Osun governorship election. By this certificate of return handed to him today, he is officially our flagbearer,” the party chairman said.

 

Yilwatda assured that the APC would mobilise all its resources to reclaim Osun State, vowing that the party would stand “neck to neck and leg to leg” with the people of the state until election day.

 

“We are not just aiming to win; we want to win convincingly, beyond any reasonable doubt,” he added, noting that the party had already begun full-scale mobilisation to ensure victory in August 2026.

 

In his acceptance remarks, Oyebamiji expressed gratitude to the party leadership and pledged to deliver purposeful governance to Osun State.

 

“I am honoured and glad to receive this certificate of return,” he said. “Osun people are ready for the APC to take over from what I describe as a dancing government. Governance is serious business, and Osun is endowed with immense human and material resources that require serious management.”

 

Describing himself as a capable manager, Oyebamiji said his emergence marked the beginning of a renewed drive to harness the state’s assets for development.

 

“Now that I have this mandate, we will carry it forward. Come 2026 and 2027, we will deliver Osun State and also deliver victory for the President,” he declared.

CNG Slams ‘Distorted’ Media Reports on NSA’s Counter-Terrorism Role, Warns of Security Risks

By
Grace Itodu
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0

 

 

 

The Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) has raised concerns over what it described as exaggerated and misleading media narratives surrounding the counter-terrorism efforts of the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA), particularly in the wake of a recent security incident in Kwara State.

 

In a statement issued on Friday by its National Coordinator, Jamilu Aliyu Charanchi, the group said some media reports—allegedly driven by political interests—have misrepresented facts and risk inflaming tensions in an already fragile national security environment.

 

The CNG noted that the involvement of civilian forces in support of military operations is not new to Nigeria’s counter-terrorism strategy, tracing the practice to the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan and its institutionalisation under the late President Muhammadu Buhari with the establishment of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) in Borno State.

 

“These civilian outfits have proven invaluable, as they comprise local indigenes with intimate knowledge of their communities and terrains,” Charanchi said. “Their contributions have been pivotal in reclaiming territories and restoring a measure of peace to areas devastated by violence.”

 

However, the group decried what it called a troubling trend of sensationalist reporting by certain media outlets, particularly in southern Nigeria, alleging that such narratives exaggerate realities on the ground and ignore the complexity of security operations.

 

“Rather than promoting nuanced understanding, these reports fan the flames of discontent and deepen existing divisions among Nigerians,” the statement said.

 

The CNG stressed the critical role of the media in shaping public perception but warned that irresponsible reporting on security issues undermines collective efforts to safeguard the country.

 

While acknowledging the media’s right to scrutinise government actions, the group insisted that criticism must be rooted in factual accuracy and ethical standards, lamenting what it described as an apparent anti-government bias in segments of the media.

 

The group highlighted the role of civilian Joint Task Force operatives in Borno State, noting that their temporary access to arms during operations and subsequent disarmament underscore effective collaboration between civilian volunteers and security agencies. It recalled instances during past administrations when such partnerships proved decisive in counter-insurgency efforts.

 

CNG warned that current political manoeuvres risk reviving tactics used in the past to destabilise governments by fuelling inter-agency rivalry within the security architecture, thereby weakening the fight against insecurity.

 

The group urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to remain vigilant against politically motivated schemes capable of undermining coordination among security agencies, drawing lessons from previous administrations where rivalry hampered national security efforts.

 

It also called on media proprietors and professional bodies—including the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), the Nigerian Guild of Editors and the Newspaper Proprietors Association of Nigeria (NPAN)—to strengthen self-regulation and enforce ethical standards in security reporting.

 

“The dissemination of security-related news must be handled with utmost care, given its far-reaching implications for national cohesion and public safety,” the statement said.

 

The CNG further urged the Federal Government to engage media operators to promote balanced and responsible reporting, warning that sensationalism driven by the quest for higher readership or viewership could endanger national unity.

 

“The media must inform rather than inflame, educate rather than divide,” the group said, adding that a collaborative and responsible media environment is essential to building a safer, more harmonious Nigeria.

Tinubu Sends Envoy to Ouagadougou as Tuggar Reaffirms Nigeria–Burkina Faso Ties

By
Saladin Babagana
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0

 

 

 

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has dispatched a high-powered delegation to Burkina Faso, led by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, in a renewed push to strengthen bilateral relations and deepen regional cooperation.

 

During meetings in Ouagadougou, Ambassador Tuggar conveyed a message of solidarity and fraternity from President Tinubu to Burkina Faso’s President, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, as both countries explored avenues for enhanced political, security and economic collaboration.

 

A statement by the Special Assistant on Media to the Minister, Alkasim Abdulkadir, said discussions focused on coordinated responses to regional security challenges and stronger collective action through existing sub-regional frameworks, particularly within West Africa.

 

In a demonstration of constructive diplomacy, both governments also amicably resolved issues surrounding Nigerian Air Force pilots and crew, a development that reinforced mutual confidence and underscored the effectiveness of dialogue in addressing sensitive matters.

 

President Traoré welcomed the Nigerian delegation and expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for the message of goodwill. He highlighted the longstanding ties between Nigeria and Burkina Faso and stressed the need for closer cooperation to confront shared security and development challenges across the Sahel and the wider West African region.

 

Reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to good neighbourliness, Ambassador Tuggar said the country remains steadfast in supporting initiatives that promote regional cohesion, peace and economic integration. He reiterated President Tinubu’s readiness to work closely with Burkina Faso to advance stability and development in the sub-region.

 

Both sides agreed to sustain regular consultations and pursue practical steps to deepen bilateral cooperation and regional integration, reflecting a shared resolve to promote peace, unity and stability.

 

The Nigerian delegation also met with the detained air crew, who were described as being in high spirits.

 

Members of the delegation included the Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency, Ambassador Mohammed Mohammed; the Nigerian Air Force Chief of Policy and Plans, Air Vice Marshal A. Y. Abdullahi; Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to ECOWAS, Ambassador Olawale Emmanuel Awe; and the Chief of Protocol at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Wahab Akande.

Customs Intercepts 20 Diverted Containers Worth ₦769.5m in Kano

By
Grace Itodu
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0

 

 

 

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has seized 20 diverted transit containers with a combined Duty Paid Value (DPV) of ₦769.53 million across the Kano/Jigawa Area Command between the second and fourth quarters of 2025.

 

The Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, disclosed this on Friday during a press briefing at the Customs House in Kano, where the seized consignments were displayed alongside measures being deployed to curb cargo diversion and other trade-related infractions.

 

Adeniyi said the seizures underscore the Service’s resolve to facilitate legitimate trade while maintaining zero tolerance for violations that undermine national security, revenue generation and economic stability.

 

He lamented that despite government investments in Free Trade Zones and the adoption of international best practices, some operators still divert containers en route to inland terminals and bonded facilities, in breach of Section 64(b) of the Nigeria Customs Service Act, 2023.

 

According to him, cargo diversion erodes government revenue, fuels commercial fraud and exposes the country to grave security and reputational risks, noting that intelligence-driven enforcement has continued to yield positive results.

 

Breaking down the seizures, the Customs boss said seven containers of vitrified tiles valued at ₦228.58 million were intercepted along the Hadejia Road corridor after being unlawfully diverted from the Kano Free Trade Zone. Two containers of diesel engine oil worth ₦87.56 million and two containers of polyester materials valued at ₦77.99 million were also seized from private warehouses in the Dakata Industrial Area.

 

He added that a container carrying 308 bales of used clothing with a DPV of ₦48.42 million was intercepted near the Gano bonded terminal, while four containers laden with printed and lace fabrics valued at ₦226.15 million were intercepted while being diverted en route to bonded terminals in Kano.

 

Other seizures included a container of Zamzam-branded bottled water valued at ₦21.46 million, which contravened the Common External Tariff, as well as three containers conveying medical consumables and lace fabrics with a combined DPV of ₦25.2 million. Two of the containers carrying medical items were forfeited to the Federal Government following a judgment of the Federal High Court in Kano on December 10, 2025.

 

Adeniyi disclosed that one container of printed fabrics valued at ₦75.01 million remains under detention pending the conclusion of legal processes. He also revealed that a suspect, Abdulrahman Sani Adam, was convicted for container diversion and sentenced to three years’ imprisonment, with an option of a ₦3 million fine.

 

The Comptroller-General further announced that the Service is finalising plans for the nationwide deployment of an electronic cargo tracking system, already piloted across the South-West and North-West corridors, including Kano/Jigawa, to enable real-time monitoring and instant alerts whenever containers deviate from approved routes.

 

Warning smugglers and their collaborators, Adeniyi said the NCS now possesses enhanced operational capacity and technology to detect, track and prosecute offenders. He urged shipping agents, freight forwarders and importers to strictly comply with approved transit procedures.

 

“The Nigeria Customs Service remains a reliable partner in legitimate trade, but this partnership is founded on respect for the law and integrity,” he said, calling on the public to report suspicious activities to the nearest Customs office.

Tinubu Unveils ₦58.18trn 2026 Budget, Targets Growth as Revenue Pegged at ₦34.33trn

By
Gladys Phillip
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0

 

…New Tax Laws to Broaden Base, Boost Non-Oil Revenues – Abbas

 

 

 

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Friday presented the 2026 Appropriation Bill to a joint sitting of the National Assembly, proposing total expenditure of ₦58.18 trillion against projected revenue of ₦34.33 trillion, with ₦15.52 trillion set aside for debt servicing.

 

Describing the proposal as a “Budget of Consolidation, Renewed Resilience and Shared Prosperity,” the President said the fiscal plan reflects a decisive stage in Nigeria’s economic reform and transformation agenda. The budget projects capital expenditure of ₦26.08 trillion and a fiscal deficit of ₦23.85 trillion, representing 4.28 per cent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

 

Tinubu told lawmakers that the 2026 budget is designed to build on reforms undertaken over the past two and a half years to stabilise the economy, address long-standing structural weaknesses, restore investor confidence and position the country for inclusive and sustainable growth.

 

Acknowledging the hardships experienced by Nigerians during the reform process, the President assured citizens that the sacrifices would yield lasting benefits. He stressed that while reforms often bring short-term pain, they remain essential for long-term stability and shared prosperity.

 

Highlighting improvements in key macroeconomic indicators, Tinubu said the economy grew by 3.98 per cent in the third quarter of 2025, up from 3.86 per cent in the same period of 2024. Inflation, he noted, has declined for eight consecutive months to 14.45 per cent in November 2025, while oil production, non-oil revenues and external reserves have also recorded significant gains.

 

“These outcomes did not happen by chance. They are the result of tough and sometimes unpopular policy choices,” the President said, adding that the 2026 budget is aimed at consolidating existing gains and transitioning the economy from recovery to sustained growth.

 

He explained that the budget is anchored on four pillars: strengthening macroeconomic stability, improving the business and investment climate, driving job-rich economic growth, and deepening human capital development while protecting vulnerable citizens. Accordingly, key sectors received substantial allocations, including ₦5.41 trillion for defence and security, ₦3.56 trillion for infrastructure, ₦3.52 trillion for education and ₦2.48 trillion for healthcare.

 

On security, Tinubu announced the adoption of a new national counterterrorism doctrine to tackle banditry, militias, armed criminal groups, violent cults and foreign-linked mercenaries. He added that education and health financing would be strengthened through the Nigerian Education Loan Fund and a statutory allocation of six per cent of the budget net of liabilities, with support from international partners, including the United States.

 

The President said infrastructure investment would prioritise transport networks, energy supply, port modernisation and agricultural reforms aimed at food security and job creation. He disclosed plans for mechanised agriculture across seven regional hubs covering one million hectares, targeted at boosting employment and export earnings.

 

Tinubu also emphasised procurement reforms and the implementation of the “Nigeria First Policy” to promote local content, strengthen domestic industries and advance economic self-reliance.

 

“The true value of a budget lies not in its announcement, but in its execution,” he said, pledging improved revenue mobilisation, prudent spending and stronger accountability in implementation.

 

Reacting to the presentation, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, said recently enacted tax laws would broaden the revenue base, promote fairness and strengthen non-oil revenue streams, providing a sustainable financing framework for the 2026 budget.

 

Abbas commended the President’s commitment to a unified fiscal framework, describing the “one budget, one fiscal framework” policy and the elimination of overlapping fiscal authorities as critical to discipline, transparency and due process. He assured Nigerians that the National Assembly would subject the proposal to thorough scrutiny while acting with speed and patriotism.

 

On security spending, the Speaker said transparent and adequately funded security expenditure is central to national development, pledging that the legislature would ensure allocations translate into measurable improvements nationwide.

 

Reflecting on the 2025 fiscal year, Abbas described it as a period of adjustment and consolidation, citing improvements in foreign exchange reserves, remittance inflows and export earnings as signs of renewed confidence in the economy.

 

He expressed confidence that the 2026 Appropriation Bill signals a return to fiscal discipline, stronger investor confidence and a firmer foundation for inclusive growth and long-term national development.

ADC Cracks Down on Dissent as Nwosu, Rufai, 13 Others Suspended for Anti-Party Acts

By
Roland Edet
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0

 

 

The National Working Committee (NWC) of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), led by Hon. Nafiu Bala Gombe, has suspended several prominent party members, including Chief Ralph Okey Nwosu and Balarabe Rufai, over alleged anti-party activities said to threaten the unity and stability of the party.

 

The decision was taken at the NWC’s regular meeting held on Thursday, December 17, 2025, at the Global Campus and Transformation Center, where the leadership also approved fresh appointments and key organisational resolutions.

 

In a statement signed by the National Chairman, Gombe accused some members of engaging in unauthorised collaborations and activities that “caused disaffection among party members and disrupted the peaceful conduct of party business.”

 

“The NWC has observed that some party members have engaged in anti-party activities with coalition members, causing disaffection among party faithful and undermining the efficient conduct of party affairs,” Gombe said.

 

He announced that, pursuant to Article 15(a) of the party’s constitution, the NWC approved the suspension of 15 members for a period of six months. Those affected include Chief Ralph Okey Nwosu; Alhaji Ibrahim Mani; Dr. Bamidele Ganiyu Ajadi; Dr. Chike Okogwu; High Chief Anayo Arinze; Hon. Kenneth Gbandi; Alhaji Said Baba Abdullahi; Ms. Hauwa Yusuf Musa; Hon. Nkem Ukandu; Barr. Peters Iyiola Oyewole; Dr. Peter Edeh; Hon. Prince Festus Igbinoba; Hon. Razak Eyiwuawi; Balarabe Rufai; and Barr. Emeka.

 

The NWC also warned against what it described as the organisation of unauthorised ward, local government and state congresses by some individuals claiming to act on behalf of the party.

 

“The NWC declares these congresses null, void and of no effect whatsoever,” the statement said, directing party members and the public to disregard any outcomes from such gatherings.

 

At the meeting, the committee approved several appointments into key party positions. Hon. Leke Joseph Abejide was named Chairman, Board of Patrons, by virtue of his position as a high-ranking elected official of the party, while Hon. Bala Sani was appointed Chief of Staff to the National Chairman.

 

Other appointments include Dr. Abimiku Monday as Special Adviser on Strategic Communication; Muhammad Sa’ad Aboki as Director of Youth Mobilisation; Bello Shehu as Director of Finance; and Rabiu Mohammed as Administrative Secretary. All appointees were directed to assume duties immediately and collect their appointment letters at the party’s national headquarters.

 

In addition, the NWC constituted a four-member committee to conduct the Osun State governorship primary election, with Dr. Rufus Ikanmi as chairman, Barr. Henry P. Moses as secretary, and Muhammad Ibrahim and Alhaji Ibrahim Saleh Katagum as members.

 

Gombe further advised party members and the general public to ignore unauthorised gatherings, noting that the National Executive Committee (NEC) would soon meet to approve an official timetable for legitimate party congresses.

 

“All official announcements regarding party congresses will be made through the ADC’s authorised communication channels,” he said, adding that all appointments take immediate effect and appointees are expected to discharge their duties with professionalism and dedication.

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