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PDP Dissolves Party Structures In Enugu, Four Other States

 

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has announced the dissolution of its party structures in Imo, Abia, Enugu, Akwa Ibom, and Rivers states.

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State moved the motion at the PDP national convention in Ibadan to formally validate executives elected through congresses conducted nationwide.

Makinde noted that congresses held between 2024 and 2025 produced officers at the ward, local government, state, and zonal levels, including national ex-officio members.

He added that the exercises were conducted peacefully and in compliance with the Electoral Act 2022, the PDP constitution, and the party’s internal regulations.

“The national executive committee (NEC) and the national working committee (NWC) have already endorsed the congresses and the elected officials. However, the party has now resolved to disband its structures in the five affected states,” Makinde said.

He further explained, “In the case of Imo, Abia, Enugu, Akwa Ibom, and Rivers, the convention hereby dissolves all party structures at the ward, local government, and state levels.”

“This decision is authorised for publication to serve as formal notice to the public.”

The motion was seconded by Daniel Okechukwu, national auditor and member of the NWC, at the convention venue.

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Turaki’s Candidacy: Kebbi PDP Boycotts Ibadan National Convention

 

The Kebbi State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has declared that it will not participate in the party’s national convention taking place on November 15, 2025, in Ibadan, Oyo State.

Publicity Secretary of the chapter, Sani Dododo, said the boycott is in protest against the candidacy of Kabiru Tanimu Turaki, who is contesting for the position of national chairman.

According to the chapter, Turaki is not a legitimate member of the party, having been suspended in April 2023 over allegations of gross misconduct, anti-party activities, and failure to pay party dues.

His suspension, issued by the Nasarawa 1 Ward, also included seven other members, among them former governorship candidate Gen. Bello S. Yaki.

In a petition dated October 25, 2025, the Kebbi PDP formally notified the screening committee for the national convention of its objection to Turaki’s nomination.

The petition, jointly signed by State Chairman Alhaji Usman Bello Suru and Secretary Abubakar Bawa Kalgo, contained signatures and phone numbers from members of both the state working and non-working committees, all registering their opposition to his candidacy.

The chapter further warned that any individual claiming to represent Kebbi State as a delegate would be doing so without authorisation, adding that all legitimate delegates from the state would remain at home in solidarity with the boycott.

Despite the protest, the PDP national convention is continuing with participation from other delegates and party stakeholders across the country.

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Benue: Zaki Biam Residents Forced To Pay Kidnap Gangs N100,000 For “Protection”

 

Residents of Zaki Biam, located in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State, are currently gripped by fear as criminal activities surge across the community.

Reports indicate increasing cases of kidnap threats, motorcycle theft, and the operations of suspected cult groups, creating a tense and unsafe environment.

According to a community source who spoke over the weekend, many residents have been getting threatening calls from anonymous individuals demanding money.

Failure to comply, callers warn, would result in abduction.

“People are terrified. These calls sound organized, and the threats are real. We need help immediately before the situation escalates,” the source said.

He explained that aside from the extortion schemes, a suspected cult group has been visibly active in the area.

The group reportedly gathers frequently at the shop of its alleged leader, near the former SSS office along Yam Market bypass toward the Mechanic Site.

“They meet both during the day and very late at night. Their activities are suspicious, and their presence increases fear in the neighborhood,” he added.

The wave of motorcycle theft, which has intensified in recent weeks, is also fueling anxiety.

Thieves reportedly target motorcycle owners at night, forcing many residents to stay indoors once darkness falls.

The kidnap threats have made the situation worse.

In one instance, a POS operator, name withheld, was compelled to pay ₦100,000 after receiving a threatening call from criminals who vowed to abduct him if he refused.

“Imagine being told you’ll be kidnapped if you don’t send money. That’s what we’re dealing with here daily,” he said.

Residents are urgently appealing to security agencies to intervene before the situation spirals out of control.

“We need the government and security operatives to step in. Lives and property are no longer safe,” another resident lamented.

Attempts to reach the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Udeme Edet, were unsuccessful at the time of filing this report.

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Ethiopia Confirms Outbreak Of Deadly Marburg Virus – Africa CDC

A health worker prepares a dose of the measles vaccine at a health center in Lubbock, Texas, on February 27, 2025. Dozens of children are being rushed to a health center in the US state of Texas to get the measles vaccine, after the recent death in the area of a child who was not immunized against the highly contagious virus. The death came as immunization rates have declined nationwide, with the latest cases in the west Texas town of Lubbock concentrated in a Mennonite religious community that has historically shown vaccine hesitancy. (Photo by RONALDO SCHEMIDT / AFP)

 

Ethiopia has reported an outbreak of the deadly Marburg virus in its southern region, according to the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC).

The Marburg virus, similar to Ebola, is highly lethal, causing severe bleeding, fever, vomiting, and diarrhea.

It has an incubation period of up to 21 days and a fatality rate ranging from 25% to 80%.

The virus spreads through contact with bodily fluids, and currently, there is no approved vaccine or antiviral treatment.

WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus confirmed that at least nine cases have been detected in southern Ethiopia.

The detection follows Africa CDC being alerted to a suspected hemorrhagic virus in the region two days earlier.

“Marburg virus disease (MVD) has been confirmed by the National Reference Laboratory in Ethiopia,” Africa CDC stated.

“Further epidemiological investigations and laboratory analyses are ongoing, and the virus strain shows similarities to those previously identified in East Africa.”

Ethiopian health authorities are acting swiftly to contain the outbreak in the Jinka area. Africa CDC has pledged to collaborate with the country to ensure an effective response and prevent the virus from spreading further in East Africa.

Previous outbreaks in the region include a Marburg epidemic in Tanzania in January, which killed 10 people, and Rwanda’s first recorded Marburg outbreak in December 2024, which caused 15 deaths.

While there is no approved treatment for Marburg virus, supportive care such as oral or intravenous rehydration and management of symptoms can improve survival chances.

Rwanda also trialed an experimental vaccine from the US-based Sabin Vaccine Institute last year.

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Three PDP Governors Boycott Ibadan Convention As Delegates Exchange Blows At Venue

 

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has officially commenced its national convention at the Lekan Salami Stadium in Adamasingba, Ibadan, Oyo State, despite ongoing litigation surrounding the event.

Several prominent party figures, including governors Ademola Adeleke (Osun), Sim Fubara (Rivers), and Agbu Kefas (Taraba), were not present at the opening of the convention.

However, other key leaders, such as Governor Seyi Makinde (Oyo), Governor Ahmadu Fintiri (Adamawa), Governor Bala Mohammed (Bauchi), Governor Dauda Lawal (Zamfara), Governor Caleb Mutfwang (Plateau), and the acting PDP National Chairman Umar Damagum, attended the proceedings.

Also in attendance were Senate Minority Leader Abba Moro, former governors Olagunsoye Oyinlola (Osun) and Ibrahim Dankwambo (Gombe), PDP Board of Trustees Chairman Senator Adolphus Wabara, and party chieftain Bode George.

The convention featured a ceremonial flag presentation. Damagum received the PDP flag, Fintiri, the chairman of the convention, received the national convention flag, Governor Bala Mohammed received the Nigerian flag, and host Governor Makinde received the Oyo State flag.

Senate and House of Representatives flags were handed to Moro and Fred Agbedi, respectively.

The convention began with the accreditation of over 3,000 delegates from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.

Preparations included extensive security arrangements and vibrant participation, with delegates dressed in colorful attire.

Governor Makinde had hosted a pre-convention dinner on Friday for PDP governors, former governors, the BoT chairman, and members of the National Working Committee.

The convention proceeds despite weeks of litigation. The Wike-led faction of the party had raised concerns over unresolved issues, including the conduct of congresses.

This disagreement split the party into two factions, led by Umar Damagum and Abdulrahman Muhammad.

While Damagum’s camp insisted on holding the convention, Muhammad’s faction sought to halt it following a Federal High Court ruling in Abuja.

The Board of Trustees, led by Wabara, confirmed the convention would continue as planned, despite a restraining order issued by Justice Peter Lifu of the Abuja Federal High Court.

Meanwhile, the Oyo State High Court in Ibadan adjourned its decision on a separate suit filed by PDP member Folahan Adelabi challenging the court’s jurisdiction over the matter.

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JUST IN: PDP Expels Wike, Fayose, Anyanwu, Others

 

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has officially expelled Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Nyesom Wike, former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose, and former party secretary Samuel Anyanwu, among others.

The motion for their expulsion was moved by Chief Olabode George, former National Vice Chairman (South), at the ongoing PDP convention in Ibadan, Oyo State.

It was seconded by Hon. Samaila Burga, PDP Chairman in Bauchi State.

Ahead of the convention, the Wike-led faction had attempted to halt the event through the courts.

However, the party secured a favorable judgment from a High Court in Oyo, allowing the convention to proceed.

Mao Ohabunwa, Chairman of the Board of Trustees (BoT) aligned with Wike’s faction, had dismissed the convention, describing it as a “jamboree.”

He warned that any attendance in Ibadan would not be legally recognized. Ohabunwa also noted that Anyanwu had circulated a notice about the postponement of the convention.

He said, “We have reviewed our activities as the National Working Committee of PDP and agreed to respect all court decisions regarding the Ibadan convention. We are not part of this exercise. Ibadan is a public place—people can go for anything but not for a convention. Anyone attending under that pretext should consider it a jamboree. We will not tolerate blatant abuse of the party constitution.”

The faction’s acting national chairman, Abdulrahman Muhammad, urged delegates nationwide to stay away from the convention and wait for the appropriate time.

He emphasized his commitment to mobilizing members across all 36 states and the FCT for a united PDP.

Meanwhile, Wike praised party members for defending the PDP in their local areas.

He reaffirmed his commitment to the rule of law and promised not to betray supporters who uphold the party constitution.

“I am pleased with your dedication to the party in your respective areas. I will continue to support you and remain loyal to those who believe in the party constitution,” Wike stated.

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Regina Daniels Drug Report Fake, Abuja Hospital Clarifies

 

Serenity Royale Hospital in Abuja has denied issuing a viral medical document claiming Nollywood actress Regina Daniels is receiving treatment for severe drug dependence at its facility, describing the report as entirely fabricated.

The circulating document alleged that Daniels, who is separated from her husband, Senator Ned Nwoko, had been diagnosed with substance use disorder and placed on a home-based detox programme beginning September 24, 2025.

The document also appeared to carry the signature of the hospital’s Managing Director and Head of Clinical Services, Adekunle Adesina.

In a statement released on Thursday, the hospital distanced itself from the publication, stressing that no such report originated from its records.

“Our attention has been drawn to a post on an alleged mid-term home detox report being circulated online in the name of Serenity Royale Hospital with respect to Nwoko Regina.”

“We wish to state clearly that the publication… did not emanate from us, and we respectfully request the public to disregard the same,” the disclaimer read.

The controversy erupted shortly after one of Nwoko’s wives accused Daniels on Instagram of exposing her to drugs and alcohol years ago, claiming the influence nearly destroyed her marriage.

She maintained that Nwoko strongly condemns substance use of any kind.

“You know my husband completely hates alcohol, drugs, and smoking. He has always been clear that he would never accept any wife who engages in such habits.”

“The only reason you’re having issues with him is because he wants you to stop your drug and alcohol addiction,” she alleged, adding that Nwoko’s insistence on intervention helped her recover.

Before the allegations, the co-wife had been posting cheerful updates about her family life, including home videos with Nwoko and a vacation clip captioned: ‘Too busy building my peace, life, and family — no time for anything else.’

Meanwhile, Daniels’ brother, Samuel Ojeogwu (popularly known as Sammy West), has regained his freedom after being arrested and charged with criminal conspiracy, trespass, assault, intimidation, and theft, charges reportedly stemming from a petition filed by Nwoko.

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BREAKING: Fight Breaks Out In PDP Convention As Delegates Tear Down Posters Of Absent Governors

 

Tension rose at the ongoing Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) national convention in Ibadan on Saturday as aggrieved delegates pulled down posters of governors who failed to attend the event.

Posters of Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke and Taraba State Governor Agbu Kefas, both of whom were noticeably absent, were torn down by angry party members at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba, where the convention is being held.

The party, currently embroiled in a major internal crisis, proceeded with the convention despite two separate court rulings against it.

The faction loyal to Acting National Chairman Umar Damagum moved forward with the exercise based on a favourable judgement from an Oyo State High Court.

Governors present at the convention include Ahmadu Fintiri (Adamawa), Caleb Muftwang (Plateau), Bala Mohammed (Bauchi), Dauda Lawal (Zamfara), and host governor Seyi Makinde (Oyo).

Other top party figures in attendance were former Senate President Adolphus Wabara and former governors Udom Emmanuel (Akwa Ibom), Babangida Aliyu (Niger), and Ibrahim Shekarau (Kano).

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Lamido Misunderstood PDP’s Nomination Process – Bode George

 

PDP Board of Trustees member Bode George has said former Jigawa State Governor, Sule Lamido, acted out of a misunderstanding of the party’s nomination process for its 2025 national convention.

Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Friday, George expressed surprise that Lamido resorted to litigation, insisting the former governor did not follow the party’s clearly stated procedures.

George explained that the nomination guidelines were approved at the last National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting.

“The date for the collection of forms and the deadline for their return were all clearly outlined and approved by NEC,” he said.

He noted that all aspirants followed these rules, except Lamido, who reportedly arrived on the last day forms were due.

“Given his status, he could have contacted NEC earlier and they would have accommodated him. But taking the matter to court because he missed the deadline? That’s not proper procedure,” George added.

Assuring Nigerians that the party remains united despite internal disputes, George described the PDP as “an Iroko” and confirmed that the national convention will go ahead as scheduled.

He further stated that the court, under Justice Akintola, has extended the order to continue party operations until next Monday, with judgment expected on December 8.

Lamido, also appearing on the program, said his court action was not aimed at the PDP but was a personal attempt to restore his dignity.

“I went to court to reclaim my rights and protect my honour, not to attack anyone,” he said.

He lamented that the dispute revealed a loss of trust within the party. “I won the case, but it is distressing that the case concerns our unity and family, which has now been weakened,” Lamido said.

He added that he could not withdraw the suit, as judgment had already been delivered, and accused some PDP governors of contributing to the crisis.

Lamido also confirmed he would not attend the Ibadan convention due to the existing court injunction.

“For someone protected by the court, I cannot attend a convention where there is an injunction. Attending would negate what I have legally gained. I will abide by the court’s decision because I am a party man who believes in law and order,” he said.

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Nollywood Actor Baba Ijesha Released From Prison After Appeal Court Judgment

 

Nollywood actor Olarenwaju James, popularly known as Baba Ijesha, has reportedly been released from prison following a Court of Appeal ruling that overturned his conviction for the sexual assault of a minor.

Baba Ijesha was initially arrested in 2021. In July 2022, the Lagos State High Court in Ikeja sentenced him to 16 years in prison after finding him guilty on multiple counts related to the assault of a 14-year-old girl.

A widely circulated but unverified video obtained by our correspondent on Saturday showed the actor inside a vehicle shortly after his release. In the clip, he appeared relieved and expressed a desire to rest.

The video has been shared across Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter), though PUNCH Online has not independently confirmed its authenticity.

In a brief conversation captured in the video, he said in Yoruba:

“Apase, I’m out… I just came out. I want to relax. I just want to leave here, so I decided to inform you. Thank you for supporting me. I will call you.”

The news of his release was also shared by his friend and fellow actor, Yomi Fabiyi, on Instagram.

Fabiyi described the Appeal Court’s ruling as bringing clarity to what he called a mishandled case.

“He is not just back but better,” Fabiyi wrote, noting that the prolonged legal battle highlights the importance of fairness, due process, and the protection of rights in cases involving minors.

Fabiyi added that as a human rights advocate, he opposes all forms of abuse and reaffirmed his commitment to justice and the protection of fundamental human rights.

“We never and will never condone or support any form of sexual abuse, especially against children or minors. We will continue to advocate for justice and protection of fundamental human rights,” he said.

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