President Bola Tinubu has condemned the recent bomb attacks in Gwoza, Borno State, which caused significant casualties.

In a statement by his aide, Ajuri Ngelale, Tinubu assured that those responsible for the violence would face justice.

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He emphasized that such acts of terror were desperate responses to the government’s successful efforts in weakening terrorist capabilities.

Tinubu reaffirmed his commitment to securing the nation, vowing to intensify efforts against those who threaten peace.

He extended his condolences to the victims’ families and the people of Borno State.

Mr. Obi Aguocha, representing Ikwuano/Umuahia North/Umuahia South Federal Constituency in Abia State, has appealed to former President Muhammadu Buhari to assist in securing the release of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

During a visit to Buhari’s Daura residence on Saturday, Aguocha aimed to initiate dialogue for a political solution to Kanu’s continued detention.

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Kanu, arrested in Kenya and brought back to Nigeria in July 2021, has faced charges including treason since his detention.

In a statement from his media team, Aguocha expressed regret for past actions, stating, “for the missteps, utterances, and ill gestures of the past, especially on the part of my constituent and brother, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, I am deeply sorry.”

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He emphasized that a political resolution could address grievances and foster national unity.

Buhari reportedly praised Aguocha’s dedication and welcomed his approach.

Aguocha recently led 50 House of Representatives members from all geopolitical zones in a letter to President Bola Tinubu, urging him to instruct the Attorney General to use constitutional provisions to facilitate Kanu’s release.

The meeting with Buhari is part of a broader initiative aimed at resolving the issues surrounding Kanu’s detention and promoting dialogue for national peace and prosperity.

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has issued a stern demand for transparency from the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr. Olayemi Cardoso, concerning the whereabouts of over N100 billion in ‘dirty and bad notes’ and other significant sums awaiting examination across various CBN branches.

In a letter dated June 29, 2024, signed by Deputy Director Kolawole Oluwadare, SERAP cited revelations from the latest Auditor-General of the Federation’s annual report.

These allegations, according to SERAP, point to serious breaches of public trust, constitutional provisions, the CBN Act, and both national and international anti-corruption obligations.

Among its demands, SERAP called on Governor Cardoso to account for the N7.2 billion earmarked for the construction of the CBN Dutse branch in 2010 and the N4.8 billion allocated for the renovation of the CBN Abeokuta branch in 2009.

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SERAP further urged the publication of the names of contractors who received these funds but failed to complete the projects.

Additionally, SERAP pressed for explanations regarding the allegedly missing outstanding loans of N1.2 billion granted to the Enugu State Government in 2015 and N1.9 billion to the Anambra State Government between 2015 and 2016.

The organization emphasized the need for full recovery and remittance of these public funds to the treasury.

Highlighting specific concerns from the Auditor-General’s report, SERAP pointed out that funds budgeted for the Dutse and Abeokuta projects had not been fully accounted for, raising suspicions of mismanagement or diversion.

The organization stressed the importance of adhering to financial regulations and procurement laws, noting that failure to do so undermines public trust and the CBN’s accountability.

SERAP underscored that these actions are essential to restore public confidence in the CBN’s integrity and urged Governor Cardoso to refer these issues to appropriate anti-corruption agencies for investigation and potential prosecution.

The organization concluded by urging prompt action within seven days, warning of legal recourse should the CBN fail to comply with its demands.

Speculations are rife following a recent meeting between former Kaduna State governor, Malam Nasir El-Rufai, and Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, leader of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), suggesting a potential coalition against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 elections.

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The meeting, which took place on Thursday, has drawn attention amidst a backdrop of several northern political figures converging at the Daura residence of former President Muhammadu Buhari.

This gathering has been interpreted by political observers as a move to consolidate political influence and mobilize support for the upcoming presidential election.

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Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s recent visit to Buhari, accompanied by former governors Aminu Tambuwal and Jibrilla Bindow, was labeled as a Sallah homage.

Shortly after, El-Rufai paid a visit to the ex-president, followed by former Borno State governor Ali Modu Sheriff.

Senator Shehu Sani, a former Kaduna Central Senator, criticized these gatherings, cautioning against manipulating Arewa sentiment without considering the potential repercussions.

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Political analysts speculate that El-Rufai and Kwankwaso, both of whom have grievances against the current administration led by President Tinubu, may be strategizing to align behind a formidable presidential candidate for 2027.

Despite President Tinubu reportedly making efforts to woo Kwankwaso to the All Progressives Congress (APC), political tensions persist due to Kwankwaso’s strained relationship with APC national chairman Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje.

Allegations of broken promises, including an unfulfilled ministerial appointment after the 2023 elections, have further strained ties between Kwankwaso and Tinubu.

El-Rufai’s recent political activities have also fueled speculations about his intentions for 2027.

His meetings with various political figures, including leaders from different parties like the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and APC, have heightened anticipation about his future political moves.

Hashimu Dungurawa, NNPP chairman in Kano State and a close ally of Kwankwaso, described the recent meeting between El-Rufai and Kwankwaso as a reunion of progressive politicians with a common goal of rescuing Nigeria, particularly the Northwest region.

Regarding Kwankwaso’s ongoing probe by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over alleged campaign fund irregularities, Dungurawa dismissed it as a distraction orchestrated by political opponents.

Efforts to obtain comments from El-Rufai’s media aide, Muyiwa Adekeye, and Kwankwaso’s media aide, Saifullahi Hassan, regarding the meeting’s agenda were unsuccessful at the time of reporting.

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Anambra State has officially dismissed the idea of a zoning formula for the 2025 governorship race.

This announcement was made by the party’s Publicity Secretary, Dr. Valentine Iyke-Oliobi, in a statement on Saturday.

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Iyke-Oliobi clarified that the APC has never engaged in any zoning agreements with other parties in the state.

He emphasized that the party prioritizes equal opportunities, allowing any member, regardless of their region, to contest for the party’s ticket.

He stated, “The APC in Anambra State has no zoning formula and has never participated in any such arrangements with other political entities. We ensure every member has the chance to vie for positions without regard to their zone.”

Additionally, the statement disassociated the party from Mr. Pope Amaefuna, who had claimed to be an APC chieftain.

Iyke-Oliobi labeled Amaefuna as potentially a ‘fifth columnist’ attempting to sow discord within the party.

Iyke-Oliobi reaffirmed the APC’s commitment to democratic values, asserting that the party’s candidate for the 2025 governorship will be chosen based on popular support.

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“The APC is a progressive party that refuses to limit the democratic process to any particular section of the state,” he noted.

He encouraged aspiring candidates to focus on earning the support of party members, rather than engaging in divisive debates over zoning, which he described as foreign to the APC’s principles.

Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the recent election, has voiced his support for the release of Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

Speaking from his residence in Onitsha, Anambra State, Obi highlighted the precarious state of Nigeria, urging respect for the rule of law.

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Obi insisted on the immediate release of Kanu, referencing court rulings that had granted him bail.

“There’s no justification for Nnamdi Kanu’s ongoing detention,” he remarked, emphasizing that the government must adhere to judicial decisions.

He further called on the federal government to release others detained under similar circumstances, advocating for discussions with these individuals.

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“In a democracy, arbitrary actions are unacceptable,” he stated, urging respect for rights such as peaceful protest and freedom of expression.

Obi expressed concerns over Nigeria’s security issues, noting the government’s primary role in safeguarding lives and property.

He lamented the nation’s rising insecurity, attributing it to poor governance, and called for a collective effort among leaders, particularly in the South East, to address these challenges.

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Reflecting on protests, Obi condemned violent riots but supported peaceful demonstrations, stressing the need for constructive dialogue to address grievances.

Regarding political developments, Obi dismissed the focus on forming a mega party ahead of the 2027 elections, prioritizing the welfare of Nigerians.

He emphasized the importance of addressing issues like food security and poverty alleviation over political maneuvering.

“Our focus should be on improving the lives of Nigerians, not just gaining power,” he concluded.

Former Senate President and ex-Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator Anyim Pius Anyim, is reportedly set to switch allegiance from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The announcement came from Chief Stanley Okoro Emegha, APC Chairman in Ebonyi State, during a rally in Ivo, Anyim’s home area, on Saturday.

Emegha emphasized his personal commitment to convincing Anyim to join the APC, citing Anyim’s extensive experience and leadership capabilities as crucial assets.

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Emegha expressed satisfaction with Anyim’s decision, noting that Anyim’s consent was given for the use of his image at the rally.

“I made it a personal mission to persuade him because the entire southeast cannot effectively negotiate without someone of his stature.”

He continued, “Seeing his image on our APC posters today confirms his involvement, despite his absence due to other commitments. This solidifies his role as an APC member and a key figure within the party.”

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Emegha further stated, “By the 14th of next month, it will be clear that Senator Anyim is not only a significant figure in Ebonyi but throughout the southeast APC.”

Additionally, Governor Francis Nwifuru, represented by Deputy Governor Princess Patricia Obila, along with local government Chairman Emmanuel Ajah, addressed the rally, pledging further development and resolving local boundary disputes.