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PDP’s New Board of Trustees Elects Leaders, Calls for Convention Postponement

By Toyin Adebayo, Abuja

The newly reconstituted Board of Trustees (BoT) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in an attempt to stabilize the party has called for an immediate postponement of its proposed National Convention, citing the need for judicial prudence amidst ongoing legal battles.

The resolution was part of several critical decisions reached during the board’s inaugural emergency meeting held in Abuja on Friday, where Senator Mao Ohuabunwa and Hon. Isah Dansidi were elected as the new Chairman and Secretary, respectively.

In a communiqué issued after the meeting, the BoT asserted that proceeding with the convention would be premature while an appeal against the October 31 Federal High Court judgment—which paved the way for the board’s own reconstitution—remains pending.

“In view of the fact that the Federal High Court judgment has been appealed, prudence and respect for judicial processes demand that the proposed National Convention be postponed until the Court of Appeal delivers its decision,” the communiqué stated.

The board’s first major action signals its intent to position itself as the party’s moral and legal compass, directly intervening in a major calendar event to enforce constitutional order.

New Leadership Takes the Helm

The meeting also formalized a new leadership structure for the BoT. The communiqué clarified that the immediate past Chairman, Senator Adolphus Wabara, and Secretary, Senator Ahmed Makarfi, were succeeded to preserve the board’s “neutrality, integrity, and moral authority,” having “publicly taken positions in the party’s internal crisis.”

In a move reflecting the party’s zoning tradition, Senator Ohuabunwa, from the South, and Hon. Dansidi, from the North, were unanimously elected to fill the vacant positions. The board expressed gratitude to the outgoing officers for their service.

A Firm Stance on Legal Supremacy

Reiterating its commitment to the rule of law, the BoT issued a stern warning to all party organs against acting in contempt of court. It emphatically declared that the Federal High Court judgment “remained superior and weightier in law” than any conflicting interim orders, a clear reference to a recent order from an Oyo State High Court.

“Any such action [in contempt of court] would render subsequent outcomes null and void,” the communiqué warned, directing full compliance with the Federal High Court’s ruling.

While supporting the goal of a “credible, transparent, and inclusive national convention,” the board conditioned it on strict adherence to the party’s constitution, electoral laws, and existing court pronouncements.

Pledging to Be the Party’s ‘Conscience’

Echoing the themes set forth by the Acting National Chairman last week, the newly inaugurated BoT pledged to act as the “conscience and stabilizing moral compass” of the PDP. It committed to actively mediating among stakeholders, promoting inclusivity, and preventing divisive tendencies.

“Genuine reconciliation and cooperation remain the bedrock of sustainable peace and collective advancement within the PDP,” the statement read, calling on all members to close ranks and uphold constitutionalism.

The communiqué was jointly signed by the new Chairman, Senator Mao Ohuabunwa, and Secretary, Hon. Isah Dansidi, formally marking the beginning of their tenure tasked with steering the party through its current crisis.

PDP Chairman Inaugurates New Board, Blames Predecessors for Party’s ‘Moral Decay’

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The Acting National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Alhaji Abdulrahman Muhammad in an address marking a significant leadership overhaul, squarely blamed the party’s recent decline on the “compromised” moral authority and “unconstitutional” practices of its immediate past leadership.

Speaking on Friday at the inauguration of a newly reconstituted Board of Trustees (BoT) in Abuja, Muhammad described the event as the definitive start of “a new era of moral renewal and institutional discipline” for the opposition party.

The acting chairman detailed a period of deep internal crisis, citing the leadership of the former BoT led by Senator Adolphus Wabara, whose suspension by the Abia State chapter over alleged anti-party activities had, according to Muhammad, rendered the board “divided and ineffective.”

“The Board that was meant to be the moral compass of our party became divided and ineffective,” Muhammad stated, describing its loss of credibility as a “painful but necessary step” that forced the party to rebuild.

He extended his criticism to the then-suspended National Chairman, Ambassador Umar Damagum, accusing his leadership of choosing “convenience over the constitution and personal loyalty over the rule of law.” This approach, he alleged, involved ignoring court judgments and shielding members who violated party rules, which pushed the PDP to a “point of deep internal disillusionment.”

Muhammad framed a recent Federal High Court judgment—which facilitated the BoT’s reconstitution—not as an attack on the party, but as a judicial intervention to save it.

“The court judgment was not an assault on the PDP; it was a reminder that no institution is greater than the law,” he said. “It was a call to return to our roots.”

He praised party members who sought legal redress, characterizing their actions as driven by “conscience” and a desire to “redeem” and “heal” the party.

The newly inaugurated BoT was presented as the cornerstone of the PDP’s revival. Muhammad charged its members with a “sacred trust,” urging them to “speak truth to power” and act as the “conscience and compass of the party.”

Reflecting on the party’s historical missteps, the acting chairman traced the root of its current problems to the abandonment of its zoning principle ahead of the 2015 elections. “It began when we allowed ambition to override equity,” he stated, acknowledging that the “consequences of those decisions still haunt us today.”

Looking forward, Muhammad vowed that the new leadership is committed to transparency, discipline, and strict adherence to the party’s constitution.

“Under this new leadership, the PDP will never again be held hostage by impunity, manipulation, or disregard for its own constitution,” he declared. “We must reform or risk irrelevance.”

In closing Muhammad appealed for unity, he called on members to rise above personal ambitions, framing the moment as a critical juncture to pull the party back from the brink and restore its foundational values.

Protesting Contractors Gridlock National Assembly as Reps Hold Closed-Door Session

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ABUJA – For the second consecutive day, contractors claiming unpaid dues for work done for the National Assembly barricaded the complex’s main entrance on Wednesday, causing significant disruption and prompting the House of Representatives to convene an extended closed-door session to address the escalating situation.

The protest prevented lawmakers, staff, and visitors from accessing the building for hours, creating a major gridlock in the Three Arms Zone and stranding many outside the gates.

The House, which resumed plenary amidst the chaos, immediately moved into a private executive session to deliberate on the matter. The session, which began in the main chamber, lasted approximately two hours before lawmakers relocated to continue their discussions behind closed doors in Room 028, underscoring the sensitivity of the talks.

While the specific details of the deliberations were not disclosed, it is widely believed that resolving the standoff with the aggrieved contractors was a primary focus. The contractors had on Tuesday staged an initial protest, barricading the entrance and demanding payment for projects they had executed for the legislative body.

The continued demonstration highlights mounting tensions over public sector debt and its impact on government operations. Despite earlier assurances from the National Assembly that their grievances would be addressed, the contractors returned Wednesday, signaling a breakdown in negotiations and intensifying pressure on the legislature.

The House is expected to resume its public legislative agenda following the conclusion of the executive session. However, the protest has cast a spotlight on the administration of the National Assembly and its financial obligations to service providers.

Nigeria’s Non-Interest Capital Market Hits N1.6 Trillion, Says SEC Chief

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ABUJA – Nigeria’s non-interest capital market has grown to a valuation of over N1.6 trillion, the Director-General of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Dr. Emomotimi Agama, announced on Tuesday.

The disclosure was made at the 7th African International Conference on Islamic Finance (AICIF 2025) in Lagos, where Dr. Agama highlighted the sector’s critical role in advancing financial inclusion and funding national infrastructure.

He attributed the market’s “remarkable growth” to a supportive regulatory environment, specifically citing the reforms ushered in by the Investments and Securities Act (ISA) 2025.

“This is clear evidence that when there is an enabling regulatory environment, the market responds with vigour,” Dr. Agama stated.

A significant driver of this growth has been the federal government’s sovereign Sukuk programme. The SEC DG revealed that the programme has raised over N1.4 trillion through seven issuances since its inception in 2017. These funds have been directly channeled into the construction and rehabilitation of 124 critical roads, spanning more than 5,820 kilometres across the nation.

In a move to attract international ethical capital, Dr. Agama also confirmed the recent approval of a $500 million international Sukuk, marking the next phase in Nigeria’s infrastructure financing strategy.

Continental Growth and Challenges

The conference also served as a platform to discuss the broader African landscape. While Dr. Agama pointed to rapid growth in countries like Egypt, Kenya, and Ghana as signs of a continental shift, other speakers cautioned that barriers remain.

The Conference Chair, Ms. Ummahani Ahmad Amin, noted that despite global Islamic financial assets reaching $3.88 trillion in 2024, Africa’s share is still marginal.

“To enable Sukuk and other Islamic financial instruments serve as effective drivers of financial intermediation, we must first address the barriers that continue to constrain their growth,” Amin said, citing underdeveloped market infrastructure and limited liquidity.

She also highlighted the dual role of Artificial Intelligence (AI), which can automate compliance but must be guided by strong ethical guardrails.

Looking Ahead

Dr. Agama confirmed that resolutions from AICIF 2025 will directly inform the development of the Second Nigerian Capital Market Masterplan (2026–2035), as the current plan concludes this year.

In line with the conference’s theme of inclusive prosperity, a startup pitch competition was held. ZannyTecture Recycling Company Limited won the Social Impact category for its work creating eco-friendly products from waste, while BetaLife Health topped the Technology category with an AI-driven blood supply platform.

The conference also saw the launch of The Metropolitan Waqf, a new initiative aimed at funding education for marginalized communities in conflict-affected areas of Nigeria.

Police Dismantle Illegal Gun Factory, Sea Pirates’ Hideout in Akwa Ibom

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UYO – The Akwa Ibom State Police Command has announced a major breakthrough in its fight against crime, uncovering an illegal gun manufacturing facility and disrupting a sea piracy network in simultaneous operations.

The successes were disclosed by the Commissioner of Police, Mr. Baba Mohammed Azare, during a press briefing at the Command Headquarters in Uyo on Tuesday.

In a targeted raid on Ekit Itam Village in Itu Local Government Area, police operatives busted a clandestine workshop fabricating firearms. Two suspects, Aniekan Aniedi, 39, and Ubong Udofia, 35, were arrested at the scene.

Exhibits recovered from the factory included three finished locally made pistols, five metal pipes, two iron rods, copper wire, flat metal plates intended for gun butts, a welding machine, and various electric tools. CP Azare assured the public that an investigation is underway to “identify and apprehend their criminal network of armed robbers and cultists.”

In a separate marine operation on November 3rd, conducted in collaboration with a local security group, Marine Hunters, police intercepted and arrested a 27-year-old suspected militant, Samuel Geofrey from Bayelsa State.

“Geofrey confessed to being an active militant involved in sea piracy and kidnapping,” CP Azare stated. “He disclosed that his rifle was in the custody of one Kingdom Bane, the Village Head of Ine Eyoabasi Fishing Village.”

A subsequent raid on the village head’s residence led to his flight, but a search yielded a trove of items believed to be stolen from sea travelers. Recovered goods included multiple marine engines, powerheads, gearboxes, generators, and a deep freezer. The suspect remains in custody as manhunts for the fugitive village head and the rifle continue.

The police also paraded suspects involved in other criminal activities. Umar Bello was arrested with 31 stolen mobile phones, while others, including Maxwell Asuquo and Etin Akpan, were apprehended for handling stolen tricycles and vehicle parts.

In a crackdown on crimes disguised as cultural practices, one Solomon Edem from Abak was arrested for using a masquerade costume to rob victims. Two cult leaders from Ekpenyong Ikot Isang were also charged for illegal assembly and extortion.

“The era of hiding criminality behind cultural practices is over,” CP Azare declared, signaling a zero-tolerance approach to all forms of crime in the state.

Nigeria, EU, and UNICEF Forge €6.3 Million Pact to Boost Local Drug Production

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ABUJA – In a significant move to bolster Nigeria’s healthcare self-sufficiency, the Federal Government has entered a €6.3 million partnership with the European Union and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) to stimulate the local manufacturing of essential medicines, vaccines, and nutrition products.

The 24-month initiative, signed Tuesday at the Nigeria-EU Health Investment Forum, aims to strengthen the nation’s pharmaceutical sector, secure supply chains, and reduce a longstanding dependency on imported health commodities. The agreement signals a strategic shift from traditional aid toward long-term investment in Nigeria’s industrial capacity.

The project, titled “Enabling Local Manufacturing of Health, Immunisation and Nutrition Commodities in Nigeria” (ELM-N), is funded by a €5.5 million contribution from the EU and an additional €800,000 from Spain.

Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, hailed the partnership as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s evolving relationship with the EU. “This partnership is expanding opportunities for technology transfer, facility financing, and local production,” Bagudu stated, adding that it aligns with the government’s goal to position Nigeria as a regional hub for health innovation and research.

The EU’s Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Mr. Gautier Mignot, representing Team Europe, emphasized the program’s strategic nature. “More than anything, we want to support the paradigm shift taking place in Nigeria and West Africa, moving from aid to peer-to-peer collaboration,” Mignot explained. The initiative falls under the EU’s broader Global Gateway strategy, which provides support to local manufacturers and governments to build sustainable production capacity.

Stakeholders highlighted the project’s potential impact on public health outcomes. The United Nations Resident Coordinator, represented by UNICEF’s Wafaa Abdelate, connected the initiative to urgent national needs, citing over two million “zero-dose” children and high maternal mortality rates.

“This partnership must translate into access to affordable, timely, and safe vaccines, medicines, and nutrition products,” Abdelate said.

The Spanish Ambassador to Nigeria, Félix Costales Artieda, noted the agreement would also advance regional health security and equitable access to essential products across West Africa.

By strengthening local production and regulatory frameworks, the ELM-N project is seen as a critical step toward a more resilient health system for Nigeria and a reduction of its vulnerability to global supply chain disruptions.

Rev. Sam Oye Calls for Stronger Military Support to Tackle Rising Insecurity in Nigeria

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Renowned pastor and leadership expert, Rev. Sam Oye, has urged the Federal Government of Nigeria to increase support for the nation’s Armed Forces and deploy advanced security technology to combat the growing wave of insecurity across the country.

Speaking in Abuja during a press briefing to announce The Encounter ’25: A Global Worship Experience themed “ZOE”, the Lead Pastor of The Transforming Church (TTC) said protecting lives and property is the top constitutional duty of government.

“The major assignment of government is the protection of its citizenry. If a government fails to protect her people, the government has failed indeed,” he said.

Government Must Improve Military Welfare

Rev. Oye commended current security operations but urged stronger focus on troop welfare, equipment upgrades, and better funding for the Army, Navy and Air Force.

“The political class must make sure that the military gets the equipment they need. They also need motivation. You cannot send men to fight and not take care of them,” he stated.

He called for increased use of drones, surveillance systems, and intelligence-driven operations to drastically reduce battlefield casualties.

Church Will Continue to Support Peace Efforts

Addressing the role of churches in national security, Rev. Oye stressed that religious institutions are not enforcement agencies but provide prayers, moral guidance, and truth to power.

“Our role is to pray for those in authority, not to interfere with governance. We will continue to pray and speak truth to power,” he said.

Cleric Warns Against Dangerous Political and Religious Rhetoric

The global leadership coach warned influential figures to avoid statements capable of triggering chaos in Nigeria.

“Words start wars. We must be careful not to inflame the situation and destabilise Nigeria. That will benefit no one,” he cautioned.

Concern Over Killings in North and Middle Belt

Rev. Oye expressed deep concern over continued killings and displacements in Plateau, Bene, Nasarawa and the North-East, describing them as tragic and unacceptable.

He appealed to religious leaders of all faiths to stand together for peace and national unity.

“We will continue to pray for the government to have the courage to protect the unity of our nation,” he said.

The briefing drew wide local and international attention as participants echoed calls for proactive leadership and a united approach to securing Nigeria’s future.

FCCPC Shuts Down Five Textile Warehouses for Consumer Exploitation in Kano

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In a major enforcement operation in Kano, the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has sealed the warehouses of five major textile distributors over deceptive sales practices targeted at unsuspecting consumers.

According to Ondaje Ijagwu, Director of Corporate Affairs at the FCCPC, the sanctioned distributors shortened and under-measured fabric materials but sold them at full price — a direct violation of consumer protection laws.

Weeks of Surveillance Led to the Crackdown

The enforcement, spearheaded by the Commission’s Director of Surveillance & Investigation, Mrs. Boladale Adeyinka, followed weeks of intelligence gathering across Kano markets.

Ijagwu explained “Today’s action is the culmination of weeks-long surveillance around Kano markets by FCCPC. We established widespread sales of fabric materials significantly below the stated length or measurement while consumers paid full value.”

Clear Breach of Consumer Protection Laws

The FCCPC cited Sections 123(1) and 125(1) of the FCCPA (2018), which prohibit false, misleading, or deceptive business conduct — especially relating to quantity and pricing.

Goods involved in the sharp practices include popular textile products; LGR, U&Me, Nana Tex, V Levintus, Mama Africa, Hightex, UE, S-U Velt, and Jisiki.

Multiple warehouse locations were shut down across Kano city, including:

Gandun Abada Layout (Nos. 238, 249, 313, 315, 413 & 428)

Ibrahim Taiwo Road (Nos. 38 & 40)

87 Bua Rice Mills Street

Links I, II & III Ajasa Inuwa Wada Road

287 Gandun Albasa New Layout

FCCPC Will Not Tolerate Exploitation”

FCCPC Executive Vice Chairman and CEO, Mr. Tunji Bello, condemned the fraudulent practices, stressing that they undermine fair competition and legitimate traders.

“This nefarious practice can drive compliant retailers out of the market, reducing consumer choice and encouraging anti-competitive behavior,” Bello warned.

He assured Nigerians that the Commission will continue to deploy lawful measures to stamp out exploitation in all market environments.

Retailers Warned to Follow the Law

The FCCPC reminded suppliers nationwide of their statutory obligation to ensure all goods match declared standards and measurements.

Bello praised Mrs. Adeyinka’s enforcement team and thanked security agencies for their strong cooperation.

PDP BoT Sets Up Six-Member Panel to Resolve Crisis Ahead of National Convention

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…Gives Committee Six Days to Submit Report

Abuja, Nigeria — The Board of Trustees (BoT) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has constituted a six-member reconciliation committee to address the escalating internal crisis within the party ahead of its national elective convention scheduled for November 15–16, 2025, in Ibadan, Oyo State.

The committee, which has six days to carry out its assignment and report back, is expected to reconcile the two major factions that have polarized the PDP’s national leadership.

The party has recently been divided between a faction loyal to Acting National Chairman, Ambassador Iliya Umar Damagum, and another led by National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, backed by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike.

The crisis has also triggered conflicting judicial pronouncements — with a High Court in Abuja temporarily halting the convention, while another in Oyo State gave the go-ahead for it to proceed.

BoT Moves to Restore Party Unity

Speaking after an emergency meeting in Abuja on Wednesday, BoT Chairman, Senator Adolphus Wabara, said the intervention was necessary to prevent further deterioration of the party’s unity.

“As the conscience of the party, the BoT cannot and will not take sides,” Wabara stated. “Reconciliation is not a sign of weakness, but a demonstration of maturity and responsibility.”

He emphasized that the PDP must head into the convention as a united political force.

Members of the Reconciliation Committee

Amb. Hassan Adamu (North East) – Chairman

Chief Mike Oghiadomhe (South South) – Secretary

Chief Ugochukwu Okeke (South East)

Sen. Zaynab Kure (North Central)

Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola (South West)

Dr. Lubna Mohammed Gusau (North West)

The committee is expected to submit its report to the BoT on Tuesday, November 11, 2025.

PDP Reaffirms Damagum’s Leadership

The BoT reiterated that the PDP remains a united, formidable opposition under the Amb. Damagum-led National Working Committee (NWC).

Wabara praised the NWC, PDP Governors’ Forum, and Convention Planning Committee for ensuring stability during what he acknowledged as “trying moments” for the party.

He also hailed the Oyo State High Court ruling affirming the party’s right to conduct its internal affairs — calling it “a victory for democracy and the rule of law.”

Concerns Over Secretariat Invasion

The BoT expressed concern over rising tensions, including the recent attempted invasion of the PDP National Secretariat in Abuja.

“These regrettable incidents do not reflect the ideals and character of the PDP,” the BoT said.

Call for Reconciliation and Discipline

Wabara urged party members to prioritize collective interest over factional loyalty as Nigerians look to the PDP for national leadership.

“No ambition and no grievance should override the PDP’s mission.”
“The time has come to draw a line and turn a new page.”

He pledged the BoT’s readiness to mediate disputes and support a smooth, credible, and unifying convention in Ibadan.

Rev. Sam Oye Urges Stronger Military Support, Warns Against Inflammatory Rhetoric

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Renowned cleric and global leadership coach, Rev. Sam Oye, has called on the Federal Government to intensify efforts toward strengthening Nigeria’s security institutions, fully equipping the Armed Forces, and deploying advanced technology to combat rising insecurity across the country.

Speaking on Wednesday in Abuja at a press conference ahead of The Encounter ’25: A Global Worship Experience with the theme “ZOE”, the Lead Pastor of The Transforming Church emphasized that protecting the lives and property of citizens remains the primary constitutional duty of government.

“The major assignment of government is the protection of its citizenry — that’s constitutional everywhere around the world. If a government fails to protect her people, the government has failed indeed,” Rev. Oye stated.

While acknowledging the government’s ongoing efforts, he urged greater attention to military welfare and operational capacity.

“One of the things our government needs to do right now is to actually give attention to the military. The political class must make sure that the military gets the kind of equipment they need to carry out their duties. They also need motivation. You cannot send men to fight and not take care of them,” he added.

Advocates Use of Modern Security Technology

Rev. Oye called for the deployment of drones, enhanced air surveillance, and intelligence-led strategies to minimize troop exposure to danger.

“We can’t afford to be wasting the lives of our men when we can employ technology. Today, men don’t always have to be on the battlefield. We already know where these things are happening. Let’s deploy drones. Let’s ensure the Air Force is properly equipped.”

Church’s Role: Moral Compass, Not Military Force

The cleric emphasized that while the Church must continue to pray for national peace and good governance, it should not be seen as an extension of the security apparatus.

“The Church is not a security apparatus. Our role is to pray for those in authority, not to interfere with governance. We will continue to pray and speak truth to power, hoping that our leaders will have the moral courage to do what is right.”

Condemns Dangerous Speech That Could Fuel Conflict

He cautioned religious and political leaders against divisive statements, warning that incendiary rhetoric could worsen tensions and threaten national unity.

“Words start wars. Every nation that has gone to war — somebody said something. We must be careful with our rhetoric so that we do not inflame the situation and cause the destabilisation of Nigeria. That will benefit no one.”

Calls for Urgent Government Action as Killings Persist

Expressing concern over continued violence and displacement in Plateau, Benue, Nasarawa, and parts of the North-East, Rev. Oye described the situation as unacceptable and demanded coordinated response measures to protect communities.

He appealed to religious leaders across all faiths to unite in promoting peace and supporting initiatives that enhance national cohesion.

“We can’t deny that people are being killed — it’s happening. But as the religious community, our prayers will be with the government. We will continue to pray for them to have the courage to do what is right and to protect the unity of our nation.”

Rev. Oye’s remarks drew strong resonance from attendees at the media briefing, which attracted both local and international media, reinforcing growing appeals for accountable leadership, strategic security reforms, and collective responsibility to safeguard Nigeria’s stability.