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Christmas: Gov Okpebholo Urges Edo Residents to Embrace Unity, Compassion and Hope

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Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has called on residents of the state to use the Christmas season to reflect on the timeless values of selflessness, unity and compassion symbolised by the birth of Jesus Christ. In his 2025 Christmas message to the people of Edo State, the governor extended warm greetings to Christians as they join others around the world in celebrating the season. He described Christmas as a time of love, sacrifice, peace and renewed hope for individuals, families and communities. In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Dr Patrick Ebojele, Okpebholo said the festive period provides an opportunity for families and communities to come together in harmony, while also remembering and supporting the less privileged and vulnerable in society. The governor urged Edo people to use the season to strengthen peaceful coexistence, mutual respect and tolerance across religious and ethnic divides. He also expressed appreciation to residents for their continued support, patience and cooperation as his administration works to deliver good governance and sustainable development across the state. Reaffirming his commitment to the SHINE Agenda, Okpebholo said his government remains focused on improving security, infrastructure, healthcare, education and economic opportunities for all citizens. “As we celebrate Christmas, let us renew our faith in a better Edo State built on unity, hard work and shared prosperity. My administration remains resolute in ensuring that the dividends of democracy reach every corner of our state,” he said. He further advised residents to celebrate responsibly and observe safety measures throughout the festive period, while offering prayers for peace, progress and prosperity in Edo State and Nigeria at large. Governor Okpebholo wished Christians a joyful Christmas celebration and extended goodwill to all residents, expressing hope that the coming year would bring renewed optimism, greater achievements and lasting peace.

Tinubu
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Tinubu Celebrates Ganduje at 76, Hails His Decades of Service to Nigeria

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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated former National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, on his 76th birthday, celebrated on December 25, 2026. In a statement issued by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, the President described Ganduje as a seasoned politician and accomplished administrator who has devoted more than five decades to public service in Nigeria. Tinubu highlighted Ganduje’s long career, which saw him serve in several key roles, including as a senior administrator in the Federal Capital Territory before returning to Kano State as Commissioner for Works during the military era. Ganduje later went on to serve two terms as Deputy Governor of Kano State and was subsequently elected governor for two consecutive terms. The President also noted that Ganduje currently serves as Chairman of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), where he continues to contribute to national development. Reflecting on their relationship, Tinubu expressed gratitude for Ganduje’s loyalty and support over the years, particularly his contributions to the growth and stability of the APC. “I will forever appreciate Ganduje’s friendship and close collaboration at different times, as well as his services to the APC,” the President said. As Ganduje marks another year, Tinubu prayed that Almighty Allah grants him good health and long life, enabling him to continue serving Nigeria and humanity.

Events, Exclusive News, Politics

ADC Gains Momentum in Taraba as 45,000 New Members Register Across Four LGAs

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The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has recorded a major boost in Taraba State, with no fewer than 45,000 eligible voters registering as new members across four local government areas. A member of the party’s Membership Mobilisation, Revalidation and Registration (MMRR) committee, Hon. Iliya Ezekiel, disclosed this in a telephone interview in Jalingo, describing the development as a strong signal of growing public trust in the party. According to Ezekiel, the latest wave of registrations came from Donga, Takum and Ussa Local Government Areas, while more than 10,000 people had earlier defected to the party in Gassol Local Government Area. “Today, we received and registered additional members from Donga, Takum and Ussa LGAs who have chosen to join the African Democratic Congress movement,” he said. Ezekiel noted that the surge in membership reflects increasing confidence in the ADC’s commitment to transparency, inclusiveness and grassroots development. He added that the party’s leadership in Taraba State remains united and non-partisan, creating room for people from different political backgrounds to feel welcome. “As leaders of this great party, we are open to all. Anyone who wishes to join us is welcome. The ADC is ready to accommodate those committed to bringing positive change to Taraba State and Nigeria as a whole,” he said. He stressed that the ongoing membership drive is targeted at Nigerians who are dissatisfied with their current political platforms and are seeking a credible alternative. Ezekiel further described the current growth as unprecedented, assuring that the party would sustain its mobilisation and registration efforts across the state. He attributed the increasing acceptance of the ADC to effective grassroots engagement and inclusive leadership, while assuring new members that the party would continue to promote unity, fairness and internal democracy.

Events, Exclusive News, Politics

Christmas: AbdulRazaq Urges Kwarans to Embrace Peace, Unity and Vigilance

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Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has called on Nigerians, particularly residents of the state, to continue living in peace, harmony and mutual understanding as they celebrate Christmas. In his Christmas message to the people of Kwara on Thursday, the governor extended warm greetings to the Christian community, describing the season as one that reflects the core values of love, peace and grace symbolised by the birth of Jesus Christ. “I extend my heartfelt felicitations to the Christian community in Kwara State on the occasion of Christmas,” AbdulRazaq said. “I pray that this season brings joy, peace, and God’s abiding grace and guidance to everyone the very essence of Jesus Christ, who is the reason for the season.” The governor expressed appreciation to Christians in the state for their continued support, understanding and commitment to peaceful coexistence, noting that their contributions have helped sustain harmony across Kwara. He urged residents to strengthen bonds of brotherhood and work together towards building a safer and more prosperous state and nation. “At this time and always, I call for continuous harmony, brotherhood and a shared commitment to the peace and development of Kwara State and Nigeria,” he said. Acknowledging current security challenges, AbdulRazaq also appealed to citizens to remain vigilant, patriotic and supportive of ongoing efforts by security agencies to safeguard lives and property across the state. He concluded by wishing residents a joyful Christmas celebration and a more fulfilling New Year.

Kano state Government
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Kano in Mourning as Governor Yusuf Grieves Loss of Two Assembly Members

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Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has expressed deep sadness over the death of two serving members of the Kano State House of Assembly, describing their near-simultaneous passing as a painful and heartbreaking moment for the state. In a condolence message issued through his spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, the governor said the loss has plunged the government and people of Kano into collective grief. The deceased lawmakers are Hon. Sarki Aliyu Daneji, who represented Kano Municipal Local Government Area and chaired the House Committee on Pilgrims, and Hon. Aminu Sa’adu, the lawmaker for Ungoggo Local Government Area and Chairman of the House Committee on Appropriation. Governor Yusuf described both men as committed public servants who worked tirelessly to represent their constituents and advance grassroots development. “Kano State has lost two dedicated sons who gave their lives to public service. Their sudden departure has left a painful void in the House of Assembly and in their communities,” the governor said, adding that the tragedy is one that words can hardly capture. He extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased, the Speaker and members of the Kano State House of Assembly, as well as the people of Kano Municipal and Ungoggo local government areas. The governor prayed that Allah (SWT) forgive the shortcomings of the late lawmakers, grant them Aljannatul Firdaus, and give their families and the entire state the strength to bear the loss. He also urged residents to remain calm, united and prayerful, describing the incident as a test of faith and collective resilience. Hon. Aminu Sa’adu has since been laid to rest at the Ungoggo Cemetery, while funeral prayers for Hon. Sarki Aliyu Daneji are scheduled for Thursday. “On behalf of the government and the good people of Kano State, we extend our sincere condolences to the Kano State House of Assembly, under the leadership of the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Jibrin Ismail Falgore, and the bereaved families. May Aljannatul Firdaus be their final abode,” the statement concluded.

Governor Seyi Makinde
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Christmas: Makinde Urges Oyo Residents to Live in Love, Stay Security-Conscious

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Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, has extended warm Christmas greetings to Christians in the state and across the country, urging them to embrace love, peace and harmony as they celebrate the season. In his Christmas message to the people of Oyo State, the governor described Christmas as a season rooted in love, with the birth of Jesus Christ at its core. He encouraged Christians to reflect the values of Christ by showing kindness to one another and living peacefully with their neighbours. Governor Makinde also reminded residents to remain mindful of their surroundings during the festivities, stressing that keeping the state safe is a shared responsibility between the government and the people. He called on citizens to stay alert and promptly report any suspicious activities to security agencies using the Citizen Emergency Number, 615. According to him, the guiding principle of “If you see something, say something” remains crucial to sustaining peace and security across the state, especially during the festive period.

General, Politics, Recently Added

Kwankwaso Urges FG to Absorb State Security Groups Into Military to Tackle Insecurity

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Former Kano State governor and leader of the Kwankwasiyya Movement, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has urged the Federal Government to formally integrate state-backed security outfits into Nigeria’s security framework as a way of boosting troop strength and confronting the country’s worsening insecurity. Kwankwaso made the call on Tuesday at the inauguration of 2,000 members of the Kano State Neighbourhood Watch Corps. According to him, Nigeria needs a much larger and better-supported military to effectively deal with security threats across the country. The 2023 presidential candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) said Nigeria should have at least one million military personnel, insisting that the major challenge is a lack of political will at the federal level. “What we are lacking is political will from our leaders, especially the Commander-in-Chief,” he said. “He should ensure that our troops are properly trained and retrained, fully equipped, and provided with the right arms and ammunition.” Kwankwaso argued that existing security outfits in both northern and southern states should be absorbed into the military to strengthen national security and curb what he described as the growing wave of violence across the country. “I advise the Federal Government to do whatever it takes to absorb these corps in states like Sokoto, Katsina, Kano and Zamfara. This will significantly increase the number of security personnel we have,” he said. “We need not less than one million men and women in uniform to secure this country.” He also said the Federal Government owes Nigerians an apology, stressing that protecting lives and property remains its primary responsibility. In addition, Kwankwaso addressed the security situation surrounding the Nassarawa Palace, urging the Kano State Commissioner of Police to withdraw officers currently guarding embattled Emir Aminu Bayero and redeploy them to areas where residents need protection. “I advise the Commissioner of Police in Kano State to withdraw all police officers guarding the Nassarawa cemetery and redeploy them to protect the people of Kano,” he stated. Meanwhile, Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf charged the newly inaugurated Neighbourhood Watch Corps to work closely with conventional security agencies, especially in border communities facing persistent threats. “Our conventional security agencies need partners who understand the terrain, and that is where the neighbourhood watch plays a critical role,” Yusuf said. “No single agency can secure Kano on its own.” The governor warned the corps against overlapping the duties of established security agencies, stressing that cooperation and coordination are key to success. “Your effectiveness will depend on how well you complement, not duplicate, the efforts of conventional security agencies,” he said. Governor Yusuf also revealed that Kano State is engaging neighbouring states to tackle cross-border criminal activities, noting that insecurity does not respect boundaries. “We are working with sister states to ensure criminals have no safe haven or escape routes. Together, we will respond to emerging security challenges,” he added.

Events, Exclusive News, Politics

Local Government Autonomy Will Fast-Track Grassroots Development — Onuigbo

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A member of the Governing Board of the North East Development Commission (NEDC) representing the South-East, Rt. Hon. Sam Onuigbo, has said President Bola Tinubu’s firm stance on the full implementation of local government autonomy will unlock faster development at the grassroots. In a statement on Tuesday, Onuigbo described the President’s intervention as timely, bold and critical to strengthening local governance and national stability. He said Tinubu’s recent comments at the National Executive Committee and National Caucus meetings of the All Progressives Congress (APC) clearly showed his commitment to improving the lives of ordinary Nigerians. According to Onuigbo, state governors have allegedly withheld more than ₦4.5 trillion meant for local government councils, despite a Supreme Court judgment delivered in July 2024 that ordered direct payment of council allocations from the Federation Account. The landmark ruling declared the joint state–local government account unconstitutional and barred states from acting as intermediaries for funds meant for councils. Onuigbo praised President Tinubu for initiating the legal process that led to the judgment and for backing it up with decisive administrative action. “I want to publicly commend Mr President for remaining firm on this issue,” Onuigbo said. “Supreme Court rulings are final and binding, not optional. By insisting that local government funds go directly to councils, the President has shown uncommon political will.” He stressed that when Tinubu raised the issue at party meetings, he spoke not just as a party leader but as a statesman who understands that national development begins at the grassroots. Onuigbo argued that delays in implementing local government autonomy are mainly due to resistance from state governors. “The federal government has done its part legally, administratively and politically. The bottleneck is clearly with the governors. What remains is for states to respect the Constitution and obey the Supreme Court judgment,” he said. Reflecting on past experience, Onuigbo noted that local governments performed better in the early years of the Fourth Republic, when councils had greater financial independence. “At that time, chairmen could build rural roads, provide electricity, develop markets and run youth empowerment programmes. When local governments are allowed to function properly, they deliver because they understand their communities,” he said. He warned that withholding council funds weakens governance at the grassroots and worsens insecurity, youth unemployment and rural neglect. “When councils are financially empowered, they can address local security issues, engage youths productively and reduce social unrest,” Onuigbo added. While acknowledging constitutional challenges, particularly those linked to Section 162 on joint accounts, he expressed confidence that the federal government’s committee would find lawful and practical ways to enforce the Supreme Court judgment. Onuigbo also urged Nigerians to demand transparency and accountability from both local government chairmen and state governors. “In a democracy, the citizen is the most important office holder. People must ask questions how much came to their local government and how was it spent? That pressure will end impunity and promote accountability,” he said. He further commended President Tinubu’s broader reform efforts, citing fuel pricing reforms, easing inflation and signs of economic recovery. With most governors now in the ruling party, Onuigbo expressed optimism that the President’s call would be heeded and that long-standing obstacles to local government autonomy would finally be removed.

Seyi Makinde
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Makinde: We Empower People to Escape Poverty, Not Through Handouts

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Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has said his administration is more focused on creating opportunities that help people lift themselves out of poverty, rather than relying on handouts and cash giveaways. The governor made this known during a media chat with journalists at the Government House in Ibadan, where he explained the thinking behind his government’s social and economic policies. “For us in Oyo State, we don’t believe in handouts,” Makinde said. “Our focus is to create a conducive environment where people can access opportunities and, through their own efforts, move themselves out of poverty.” He argued that cash transfers and welfare handouts often provide only short-term relief and rarely lead to lasting change. Recalling an experience from earlier in his career, Makinde said he once witnessed how well-intended resettlement efforts failed over time. “I was at the Shell Bonny Terminal during the Nigerian LNG project. Fishermen were relocated and decent houses were built for them. In less than five years, the area had turned into a shanty town again,” he said. According to the governor, that experience shaped his views on poverty alleviation and explains why he disagrees with some development partners on strategy. “I’ve had this argument with the World Bank,” Makinde revealed. “Their preference is conditional cash transfers  give people money. But I said no.” Instead, he said Oyo State chose a different path by supporting people’s ability to work, earn and remain productive. “When the country hit economic headwinds, many states focused on palliatives sharing food and relief items. We did that too, but we went further,” he explained. Makinde said the state introduced the SEFA programme Sustainable Action for Economic Recovery to provide structured, long-term support rather than temporary relief. One of SEFA’s key interventions, he said, is in public transportation. The state-owned Pacesetter Transport Service, which carries about 20,000 passengers daily, offers discounted fares to vulnerable groups. “For students, the elderly and people with disabilities, fares are reduced by 50 per cent,” Makinde said. He disclosed that the state spends about ₦100 million every month on the transport subsidy, describing it as an investment in productivity, not a giveaway. “That ₦100 million is not just spent; it’s invested in productivity,” he said. The governor stressed that the goal is not to encourage unnecessary travel, but to help people get to places where they can earn a living or improve their wellbeing. “You’re not entering the bus just for a ride because it’s cheaper,” he said. “You’re going somewhere important somewhere that can lead to something productive.” Makinde said the approach reflects his administration’s commitment to sustainable development and building long-term economic resilience in Oyo State, rather than quick fixes that fade with time.

Governor Seyi Makinde
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Makinde Rules Out Backing Tinubu in 2027, Says Wike Offered to ‘Hold PDP’ Without Consultation

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Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has made it clear that he will not support President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election, while also revealing fresh details about his political fallout with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike. Speaking during a media chat at the Government House in Ibadan on Tuesday, Makinde said his decision was firm and personal, stressing that he has already made up his mind ahead of the next general elections. “I have my own choice as well, and I will never support the president for 2027,” the governor stated bluntly. Makinde traced the origin of his rift with Wike to a meeting attended by President Tinubu, Wike, the President’s Chief of Staff, and other senior officials. According to him, it was during that meeting that Wike made a shocking declaration about the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). “The real issue was that I was in a meeting with the president and Wike and the president’s chief of staff, and a few others were there. Wike told the president that he would hold the PDP for him in 2027. I was in shock,” Makinde said. He explained that Wike’s statement came as a surprise because there had been no prior discussion or agreement among PDP stakeholders. “When we got to the venue, I asked Wike, ‘Did we agree on this?’ Wike may want to support the president for 2027, and that is his personal choice. The president did not even ask him. He volunteered on his own,” Makinde added. The Oyo governor was careful to note that his disagreement with Wike is political, not personal. “I don’t beef anybody,” he said, emphasising that there is no personal animosity between them. Makinde revealed that he initially chose to watch how events would unfold, hoping Wike might rethink his position. “I even told a mutual friend, let’s just observe and see if he backs off, but he didn’t,” he said. The governor’s comments shed more light on the growing divisions within the PDP and underline his clear stance ahead of the 2027 presidential race.

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