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Tinubu Okays N3.3tn Bailout To Rescue Nigeria’s Power Sector

 

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved a ₦3.3 trillion intervention to settle long-standing debts in Nigeria’s electricity sector, in a move aimed at stabilising power supply and restoring investor confidence.

The approval, announced by presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga, is part of the Presidential Power Sector Financial Reforms Programme targeting liabilities accumulated between 2015 and 2025.

Following verification, the government agreed on ₦3.3 trillion as a full and final settlement.

Implementation is already underway, with 15 power generation companies signing agreements worth ₦2.3 trillion. So far, ₦501 billion has been raised, with ₦223 billion disbursed, while further payments are ongoing.

The government says the intervention will improve liquidity across the power value chain, ensuring timely payments to gas suppliers and generation companies, and ultimately boosting electricity generation and reliability.

The move comes against a backdrop of persistent power outages, repeated grid collapses, and rising dependence on generators, which have significantly increased the cost of living and doing business across the country.

However, the plan has drawn criticism from the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), which previously described similar bailout demands by generation companies as excessive and unjustified.

Labour leaders argue that the privatised power sector has failed to deliver improved performance despite significant financial interventions.

Despite the concerns, the federal government insists the programme will drive broader reforms, including better metering, improved tariffs tied to service quality, and prioritised electricity supply for businesses and industries to support economic growth.

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Kaduna Motor Park Rocked By Early-Morning CNG Bus Explosion

A Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) bus exploded early Sunday at a Kaduna motor park, destroying at least one luxury bus and damaging another, sending debris flying across the terminal and sparking panic among residents.

The blast, which occurred around 2 a.m., caused no confirmed casualties due to the late hour, according to Umar Mohammed, a worker at the Mando motor park.

“It was a massive explosion tearing a luxurious bus apart. Luckily, the timing meant fewer people were around,” he said.

Authorities have not yet provided official casualty figures or confirmed the cause, but investigators are expected to examine potential mechanical faults, mishandling of gas systems, or lapses in safety compliance.

Kaduna’s adoption of CNG buses is part of a broader national strategy to curb fuel costs and shift towards cleaner energy alternatives.

While the initiative has expanded public transport access, experts warn that improper handling of CNG systems can lead to catastrophic accidents.

The explosion is likely to reignite calls for stricter safety regulations, improved infrastructure, and enhanced public awareness as Nigeria continues its transition to gas-powered mass transit.

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92-Year-Old Cameroonian President Paul Biya Appoints Son as Vice President, Hands Him Military Control After Securing A Controversial Eighth Term

 

Cameroon’s long-serving leader, Paul Biya, has appointed his son, Franck Emmanuel Biya, as Vice President and Head of the Armed Forces, significantly consolidating political and military authority within his family amid rising national tensions.

The appointment, confirmed in a decree dated April 4, 2026, also names Franck Biya as Minister Delegate at the Ministry of Defence, placing him at the core of the country’s security and governance structure.

The presidency said the move was made in line with constitutional provisions and “service requirements.”

The development comes shortly after Biya, 92, secured a controversial eighth term in office following a disputed election that sparked protests and drew international concern.

Official results showed him winning 54 percent of the vote, ahead of opposition figure Issa Tchiroma Bakary, who rejected the outcome and alleged electoral fraud.

While the government has defended the credibility of the election, critics argue that the latest appointments signal a deepening concentration of power and raise fresh concerns about democratic governance and succession planning in the country.

Having ruled since 1982 after succeeding Ahmadou Ahidjo, Biya now faces mounting scrutiny as opposition voices warn that the move could further inflame political tensions in the Central African nation.

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Easter Massacre: 9 K!lled In Fresh Benue Attack

At least nine people were killed and one critically injured during a brutal attack on Mbalom community in Gwer East Local Government Area, Benue State, as residents prepared for Easter Sunday celebrations.

Timothy Adi, Chairman of Gwer East LGA, confirmed the attack to journalists in Makurdi, saying it occurred between 5pm and 6pm on Saturday.

He added that security forces have been deployed and the situation is currently calm.

Governor Hyacinth Alia condemned the attack as a “barbaric and unacceptable act” and expressed deep sympathy to the affected families.

He described the violence as a calculated attempt to disrupt the peace of the state, stressing that such terror will not be tolerated.

Alia praised the swift response of the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies, urging them to intensify operations to prevent further attacks and ensure the perpetrators are brought to justice.

He also called on residents to remain vigilant and support security agencies with credible information.

The governor assured the people of Benue that his administration is taking all necessary measures to strengthen security, improve intelligence gathering, and collaborate with relevant stakeholders to restore lasting peace in the state.

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Kano Belongs To APC, ADC Has No Chance – Gov Yusuf

 

Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has dismissed the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as politically irrelevant, insisting the party stands no chance of winning elections in Kano.

Speaking to a jubilant crowd at the Government House after returning from the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Convention in Abuja and its Northwest Zonal Congress in Kaduna, Yusuf expressed strong confidence in securing a second term under the APC banner.

He mocked opposition parties, grouping the ADC with the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), and described them as lacking the strength to make any real political impact.

According to the governor, Kano remains firmly in the grip of the APC, which he called the only party capable of winning elections both in the state and nationwide.

Yusuf pointed to his administration’s efforts in infrastructure, education, healthcare, agriculture, and social empowerment as proof that his government deserves another mandate. He assured supporters that even greater progress would follow if re-elected.

The governor also praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as steady economic improvements and ongoing infrastructure development, pledging Kano’s full support for Tinubu’s 2027 re-election bid.

His return to Kano was marked by a massive استقبال, with supporters lining major roads from the airport to the Government House, chanting and celebrating as his convoy passed.

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INEC Stops Voter Revalidation Rollout, Orders RECs To Stand Down Publicity

The (INEC) has directed its Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs) across the country to immediately suspend all publicity and arrangements for the planned voter revalidation exercise.

The directive was conveyed in a letter dated April 4, 2026, and signed by the commission’s Secretary, Rose Oriaran-Anthony.

While halting public-facing activities, INEC instructed the commissioners to continue internal preparations, including mobilising personnel and readying voter enrolment devices.

The move comes just days after the commission announced plans to begin a nationwide voter revalidation exercise on April 13, 2026, as part of efforts to update the voter register ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In a related development, INEC also announced a change in the format of its upcoming meeting with RECs.

The meeting, initially scheduled to hold physically on April 9, will now take place virtually.

According to the commission, all RECs are to remain in their respective states and await further instructions, including login details for the virtual session.

INEC noted that all publicity and logistical arrangements tied to the revalidation exercise should remain on hold pending further directives, expressing regret over any inconvenience caused by the sudden adjustment.

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Delivering On Promise: A New Era Of Performance-Driven Governance In Enugu

By Dr Jeff Ejiofor

Peter Ndubuisi Mbah stands today as the 5th civilian executive governor of Enugu State, and his leadership has steadily drawn attention for its focus on practical governance and measurable outcomes.

In a political environment where citizens are increasingly demanding accountability, his administration appears to reflect a shift from rhetoric to results, particularly in the areas of infrastructure and human capital development.

Undoubtedly, looking at his performance in the last few years, there is a growing sentiment across Enugu State that governance should not merely be judged by promises but by visible impact.

Roads that were once dilapidated are being rehabilitated, urban and rural connectivity is improving, and there is a deliberate push toward modern infrastructure that supports economic growth.

Beyond physical projects, the administration’s emphasis on human capital, especially in education and healthcare, signals an understanding that development is not only about structures but about people.

In education, reforms aimed at improving access, quality, and relevance are gradually taking root, with a focus on equipping young people with skills suited for a modern economy.

In healthcare, renewed investments are helping to strengthen service delivery, making care more accessible to ordinary citizens.

These efforts, taken together, reinforce the argument that when leadership demonstrates commitment and delivers tangible benefits, performance should indeed be rewarded.

Obviously, from all indications, his promises are religiously being fulfilled as we recall that during his campaign, Peter Ndubuisi Mbah articulated a vision centred on economic transformation, improved living standards, and efficient public service delivery.

What stands out today is the extent to which those promises are being translated into action. While no administration is without its challenges, the visible alignment between stated goals and ongoing projects has helped build a sense of trust among many residents.

From road construction to the provision of basic amenities, there is a noticeable attempt to address long-standing gaps.

More importantly, the administration’s approach suggests a structured plan rather than isolated interventions.

This consistency strengthens the narrative that governance, when guided by clear priorities and disciplined execution, can genuinely improve lives.

Apparently, looking ahead, the question of political continuity often hinges on public perception. For many in Enugu State, the decision will likely rest on whether the current trajectory is sustained and deepened.

If the administration continues to deliver on its key priorities, expanding infrastructure, strengthening education and healthcare, and improving overall quality of life, it naturally positions itself favourably in the eyes of the electorate.

Re-election, in this context, becomes less about political sentiment and more about performance evaluation. When citizens begin to see the government as responsive and impactful, the inclination to support continuity grows stronger.

Thus, the argument that Peter Ndubuisi Mbah may secure another mandate is rooted not just in political calculation but in the broader principle that effective leadership tends to earn public confidence.

In conclusion, the story unfolding in Enugu State reflects a broader democratic ideal: that leadership should be assessed by results and that governance anchored on delivery can reshape public trust.

If this momentum is maintained, it reinforces a simple but powerful idea, performance should be rewarded, and promises, when fulfilled, create the foundation for sustained progress. Ndi Enugu, it is often said that one good turn deserves another.

Tomorrow is indeed Here.

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ADC Dares INEC, Sets April 9 For Nationwide Congresses

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has declared it will go ahead with its nationwide congresses starting April 9, 2026, despite strong warnings from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), escalating tensions between the opposition party and the electoral regulator.

In a notice issued from its Abuja headquarters and signed by spokesperson Bolaji Abdullahi, the party—led by National Chairman David Mark—insisted it had fulfilled all legal requirements, including formally notifying INEC of its planned activities.

The ADC outlined a tight schedule: screening of aspirants on April 7, appeals on April 8, grassroots congresses at polling unit, ward, and local government levels on April 9, followed by appeals on April 10.

State congresses are slated for April 11, with appeals on April 12, culminating in a national convention on April 14.

INEC, however, has cautioned that proceeding could violate existing court orders tied to ongoing litigation involving the party.

Speaking on Arise News, INEC Chairman Joash Amupitan stressed that all parties must respect judicial directives, warning that defiance could carry serious consequences—including possible disqualification from elections.

He noted that the court had explicitly instructed parties to avoid actions that could interfere with ongoing proceedings, adding that the ADC’s planned congresses are already part of the matters before the court.

Citing past precedents in Zamfara and Plateau states, INEC warned that failure to comply with court orders could invalidate future electoral victories, even after candidates are declared winners.

The standoff deepened earlier this week when INEC suspended recognition of the David Mark-led faction of the ADC and removed its leadership from the commission’s official portal, citing a court order.

In response, the ADC accused INEC of bias and called for the resignation of its chairman, alleging attempts to weaken the opposition ahead of the 2027 general elections.

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Tinubu’s Labour Minister Onyejeocha Resigns

 

The Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, has resigned from her position, becoming the third member of Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s cabinet to step down ahead of the 2027 elections.

Her resignation follows the president’s directive requiring all political appointees with plans to contest elective offices in 2027 to vacate their positions.

Onyejeocha made the announcement on Friday via a letter shared on her social media platforms, just days after the March 31 deadline.

While confirming her departure, she did not reveal the office she intends to seek.

“It is with a heart full of gratitude that I announce my resignation as Honourable Minister of State for Labour and Employment,” she stated.

She expressed appreciation to President Tinubu, members of the Federal Executive Council, and Nigerians for the opportunity to serve, describing her time in office as a meaningful chapter in her public service journey.

According to her, the decision marks “not an end but a new beginning,” reaffirming her commitment to national development and continued service.

Onyejeocha also commended staff of the ministry for their dedication and collaboration, noting their role in advancing workers’ rights, improving workplace safety, and boosting employment opportunities across the country.

The former lawmaker, who represented Isuikwuato/Umunneochi Federal Constituency in Abia State for over a decade, also thanked her constituents for their enduring support.

Her exit follows similar resignations by Said Alkali, former Minister of Transportation, who is pursuing the Gombe State governorship, and Yusuf Tuggar, former Minister of Foreign Affairs, who has also joined the Bauchi State governorship race.

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‘2027 Is Not Our Turn’ — Umahi Dismisses Southeast Presidency Push, Backs Tinubu Till 2031

Nigeria’s Minister of Works, David Umahi, has declared that any ambition by the Southeast to produce the president in 2027 is unrealistic, insisting the region must instead rally behind Bola Ahmed Tinubu through to 2031.

Speaking in Enugu during the commissioning of a 15-kilometre stretch of the Abakpa–9th Mile–Onitsha Federal Highway, Umahi described the Southeast presidency bid as a “dead end,” urging political leaders in the region to adopt a more strategic approach.

According to him, the “Emilokan” mandate—which powered Tinubu’s rise to power—must be allowed to run its full course.

“We’re not getting the presidency through insults or wishful thinking,” he said.

“We must be strategic. No matter the candidate other parties present, Southeast people should support the President.”

Umahi, a former governor of Ebonyi State, also stirred controversy by claiming divine backing for his political stance.

He said he was acting on “God’s instruction” to align the Southeast with the ruling All Progressives Congress, expressing confidence that Tinubu would secure re-election.

Highlighting infrastructure development as a key benefit of such alignment, Umahi pointed to the ongoing reconstruction of the Enugu–Onitsha expressway, which he said is costing over ₦352 billion.

He described the project as a major federal intervention and suggested the region should reciprocate with strong electoral support—targeting at least 80% of votes for Tinubu in 2027.

The minister also dismissed long-standing complaints of marginalisation in the Southeast, noting that the region now holds significant positions in government, including his own appointment and the inclusion of Southeast indigenes among service chiefs.

In a veiled swipe at opposition figures such as Peter Obi, Umahi argued that agitation and criticism would not secure political power for the region.

He further warned that any Southeast leader unwilling to openly support and promote the current administration’s projects should not expect political backing, underscoring growing divisions over the region’s political direction ahead of 2027.

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