July 2025 | Page 6 of 48

SDP Expels El-Rufai, Bans Him from Party Activities for 30 Years

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago02 mins

Kaduna, Nigeria – July 28, 2025The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has officially expelled former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, and banned him from all party-related activities and membership rights for the next 30 years. The announcement was made on Monday in a statement issued by the SDP’s National Publicity Secretary, Araba Rufus Aiyenigba. The party accused El-Rufai of falsely presenting himself as a member without undergoing proper registration processes, a violation of party protocols and Nigeria’s electoral regulations. According to the statement, El-Rufai allegedly forged documents to claim membership in Unguwar Sarki Ward of Kaduna North LGA and assigned himself membership number “001”. Despite making public declarations on social media that he had joined the SDP, investigations by the party revealed that he never completed the required registration at the ward level. The SDP also accused the former governor of using the party’s name in unauthorized political dealings, attempting to pull the SDP into coalition arrangements without the consent of its leadership, and destabilizing party structures with “obscene inducements, misinformation, and manipulation.” “Effective immediately, Mallam Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai is excommunicated from the Social Democratic Party, with a 30-year ban from applying for membership or associating with the party in any capacity,” the statement read. The party said it has notified the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and other relevant bodies of the decision. The SDP reaffirmed its commitment to internal discipline, ideological clarity, and ethical political engagement, urging all prospective members to adhere strictly to its constitutional procedures.

NDLEA Arrests 80-Year-Old Woman in Calabar, Uncovers Drugs Hidden in Moimoi Sachets and Canned Foods

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago03 mins

In a startling operation that has drawn national attention, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has arrested an 80-year-old woman, Mrs. Grace Ekpeme, in Calabar, Cross River State, for her alleged involvement in a drug trafficking network that spans multiple states across Nigeria. The arrest was made on Saturday, July 26, 2025, following actionable intelligence gathered by the agency. Operatives stormed her residence on Edet-Nsa Street, Base Site, Calabar South, where she was taken into custody. Drugs Hidden Inside Moimoi Sachets and Canned Goods During the raid, NDLEA operatives uncovered over three kilograms of skunk, a highly potent form of cannabis, hidden in food packaging. The agency revealed that narcotics were cleverly concealed in moimoi sachets and canned foods, part of a growing trend among traffickers to use household items to smuggle drugs past checkpoints and law enforcement. Seized items included: According to officials, the discovery is part of a broader crackdown on sophisticated drug syndicates that exploit food packaging to evade detection and prosecution. NDLEA: No One Is Above the Law An NDLEA spokesperson reiterated the agency’s zero-tolerance policy, stating that age or status will not shield anyone from facing the full force of the law. “This operation reflects our unwavering commitment to fight drug trafficking across all levels,” the spokesperson said. “Age, gender, or social standing is no barrier to prosecution.” Mrs. Ekpeme remains in custody and is expected to face charges after investigations are concluded. Authorities confirmed she will be tried alongside others arrested during the coordinated national operation. Nationwide Crackdown Intensifies The arrest comes amid an ongoing nationwide offensive by the NDLEA to dismantle drug trafficking rings and disrupt distribution channels. The agency has made a series of high-profile arrests in recent months and continues to call on the public to report suspicious activities. “We urge all citizens to stay alert and help protect our communities. Together, we can weaken these criminal networks,” the NDLEA added.

Tragedy Hits AAUA as Student Is Killed by Boyfriend; NANS Issues 24-Hour Ultimatum

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago05 mins

Less than three weeks after the brutal murder of two undergraduates of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko (AAUA) in Ondo State, the university community has once again been thrown into mourning following the death of Joy Adeyemi, a student of the Department of Human Kinetics, allegedly killed by her boyfriend. Joy, who was declared missing earlier in the week, was discovered dead and locked inside her boyfriend’s room, following a foul odour that alerted neighbors to the apartment. She was reportedly stabbed to death on Tuesday, and the suspect—a resident of the university town—has since fled and remains at large. “It was neighbours that raised the alarm when they noticed the terrible smell coming from the room,” said a local resident. “She operated a POS business in the area, and after the murder, the suspect allegedly fled with her business money.” The shocking incident has sparked outrage and protests from AAUA students, who took to the streets carrying placards and chanting “Stop killing us!” The students demanded urgent intervention from the Ondo State Government and security agencies, citing a growing pattern of targeted violence against students. NANS Condemns Killings, Issues Ultimatum In response to the incident, the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Joint Campus Committee, condemned the recurring attacks and issued a 24-hour ultimatum to the state government and security agencies to take decisive action. In a joint statement, Comrade Adekanye Adeboye (Chairman) and Oladele Emmanuel (Secretary) described the attacks as “appalling” and “a gross security failure.” “The National Association of Nigerian Students is appalled and deeply saddened by the recent wave of killings targeting students of Adekunle Ajasin University,” the statement read. “In light of these tragic events, we demand that the perpetrators be immediately apprehended, and that robust security measures be put in place to safeguard students. If our demands are not met within 24 hours, we will mobilize all student structures nationwide for a massive peaceful protest in Ondo State.” Police Confirm Arrests, Investigation Ongoing Confirming the incident, Ondo State Police Public Relations Officer, Mr. Olayinka Ayanlade, said three suspects have been arrested, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend others connected to the crime. “We have arrested three suspects and are actively working to track down others still at large,” Ayanlade stated. AAUA Urges Calm, Promises Justice In his reaction, Mr. Victor Akinpelumi, Head of Media and Protocol at AAUA, appealed for calm among students and assured that the university is working closely with security agencies. “We urge our students not to take the law into their own hands. Let the police conduct a thorough investigation. We are confident that justice will be served,” he said. The killing of Joy Adeyemi adds to growing concerns about insecurity in and around the university community, with students and residents calling for urgent and long-term solutions to end the violence.

48 Killed in Three Weeks as Violence Escalates in Plateau State

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago03 mins

By Daily Trust Correspondent At least 48 persons have been killed within a span of three weeks in a wave of deadly attacks across Riyom, Jos South, and Bokkos local government areas of Plateau State, sparking widespread concern among residents and stakeholders over worsening insecurity in the region. The spate of violence began on July 10, when three herders were reportedly attacked and killed while rearing cattle around Nukur village in Jos South LGA. Just four days later, on July 14, gunmen stormed Gwon village in Riyom, killing at least three farmers, further heightening tensions in the area. The most devastating incident occurred on July 15, when suspected armed attackers launched an early morning raid on Tahoss community, also in Riyom LGA. Twenty-seven people were killed in the attack, with many others sustaining injuries. Multiple homes were also set ablaze, leaving survivors homeless and traumatized. Barely a week later, on July 24, another attack targeted a moving vehicle along the Chirang–Milbakwai road in Bokkos LGA, killing 14 passengers and injuring three others. The victims, including five men and ten women, were returning from the Bokkos weekly market and were residents of Chirang and Milbakwai communities. Local residents and civil society groups have decried the recurring bloodshed, pointing to serious lapses in security presence and delayed response from authorities. “The situation is deeply worrisome,” one community leader said. “These attacks show that there are major security gaps. Our people no longer feel safe in their homes or even while traveling.” The state has been plagued by intermittent violence, often linked to farmer-herder conflicts, land disputes, and criminal insurgency. While authorities continue to promise stronger action, residents say more must be done to prevent further bloodshed.

Over 20 Killed in Church Attack by Islamic State-Linked Rebels in Eastern Congo

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago04 mins

At least 21 people were killed early Sunday morning in an attack on a Catholic church premises in Komanda, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, by Islamic State-linked rebels, local authorities report. The Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), a militant group affiliated with the Islamic State, reportedly stormed the area around 1 a.m., opening fire on worshippers and residents. Several homes and shops were also set ablaze, leaving behind scenes of destruction and panic. “More than 21 people were shot dead inside and outside [the church], and we have recorded at least three charred bodies,” said Dieudonne Duranthabo, a civil society coordinator in Komanda. “The search is still ongoing.” The Congolese army, while confirming the attack, reported at least 10 confirmed deaths as of Sunday morning. “Armed men with machetes attacked a church near Komanda,” said Lt. Jules Ngongo, spokesperson for the Congolese Armed Forces (FARDC) in Ituri Province. “About 10 people were killed, and shops were set on fire.” This latest massacre follows a series of deadly attacks carried out by the ADF in Ituri Province. Earlier this month, the group killed dozens of civilians in what the United Nations described as a “bloodbath.” Komanda residents have since begun fleeing toward Bunia, the provincial capital, fearing further attacks. “We are truly disappointed—it’s incredible that such a situation could occur in a town where all the security officials are present,” Duranthabo added. “We urgently call for military intervention because the enemy is still near our town.” ADF: A Legacy of Violence The Allied Democratic Forces originated in Uganda in the late 1990s, emerging from small Islamist-leaning rebel groups disillusioned with President Yoweri Museveni’s government. Following military pressure, the ADF relocated to eastern Congo in 2002 and has since waged a brutal insurgency, leaving thousands of civilians dead. In 2019, the group formally pledged allegiance to the Islamic State, solidifying its identity as a regional arm of the global jihadist network. The ADF leadership envisions an Islamist government in East Africa and continues to target civilians, churches, and infrastructure in a bid to instill fear and gain territorial control. Meanwhile, the Congolese military (FARDC) has faced growing pressure as it battles the ADF alongside renewed violence from the Rwanda-backed M23 rebels, creating a complex and volatile security crisis in the region.

WMF President Ebosetale Okhueleigbe Inspires LASU Students to Own Their Dreams at ICE Connect

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago02 mins

The President of the Women Mentorship Forum (WMF), Ebosetale Okhueleigbe, has called on university students to stay committed to their dreams regardless of life’s challenges. Speaking during her keynote address at the ICE Connect event organized by the Department of Information and Communication Engineering (ICE) at Lagos State University (LASU), Okhueleigbe urged students to take full ownership of their personal journeys and reject negative influences. “You cannot control how you started, but you can control how you finish,” she said. “Nobody will come to your rescue—not even your mentors or parents. You are the chief executive officer of your life. Own your story, walk your path, and run your race.” Okhueleigbe, an award-winning humanitarian and strategic leader, emphasized the importance of self-belief and positive affirmations. She encouraged students to define their self-worth independently and to convert negativity into positive outcomes. With an impressive career spanning tax auditing, technology, public service, and civic leadership, Okhueleigbe is the founder of P.S.L. and holds advanced certifications from prestigious institutions such as Harvard Business School and the London School of Business Administration. She is widely recognized for turning passion into purpose and making a measurable impact in her fields of influence. ICE Connect, the hosting platform, is an initiative of LASU’s Department of Information and Communication Engineering. It aims to strengthen communication, collaboration, and support between students and faculty, while also equipping young engineers with real-world insights and mentorship opportunities.

Over 32,000 APGA Members Defect to APC as Prince Ukachukwu Gains Momentum Ahead of 2025 Anambra Polls

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 days ago05 mins

Massive Endorsements, ₦150 Million Fundraising Mark Turning Point in Guber Race In what analysts are calling a major shift in Anambra’s political dynamics, over 32,000 members of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) have defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in support of Prince Nicholas Ukachukwu, the party’s governorship candidate for the November 8, 2025, election. The unprecedented mass defection occurred during a mega rally and thanksgiving event hosted by the Sustenance of Faith in Governance (SOFIG) Family—popularly known as the Ikwukuoma SOFIG Family—marking its sixth anniversary on Saturday. The event drew thousands of party supporters, political stakeholders, and grassroots mobilizers from across the state. Addressing the enthusiastic crowd, Prince Ukachukwu, fondly called Ikwukuoma, expressed deep gratitude to the SOFIG movement for its unreserved endorsement and support. “This is the first time I’ve received such overwhelming support without anyone asking for a single kobo,” Ukachukwu said. “SOFIG has invested in this journey with faith, love, and commitment. This isn’t politics as usual—it’s a divine movement rooted in family, community, and vision.” He pledged to usher in a new era of people-focused, integrity-driven governance, promising to build political leadership from the grassroots to the statehouse. “Within this crowd are tomorrow’s councillors, local government chairmen, and Assembly members,” he added. “We are laying the foundation for a new political future.” Senator Ekwunife Declares Ukachukwu “Anambra’s Needed Leader” Deputy governorship candidate, Senator (Iyom) Uche Ekwunife, described Ukachukwu as a visionary leader capable of transforming Anambra. “The time is ripe. Prince Nicholas is trustworthy, God-fearing, and ready,” she stated. “Our victory must start at the ward level and spread across all 901 wards of Anambra Central and beyond.” She praised SOFIG founders Dr. (Bar) Kingsley Ezekwelu and Dr. Kenneth Ezekwelu for creating what she called “one of Nigeria’s most impactful political platforms.” ₦150 Million Boost for Campaign SOFIG National President, Dr. Kingsley K. Ezekwelu, Esq., formally endorsed Ukachukwu and Ekwunife, announcing a ₦150 million donation to the campaign. “We are more than 35,000 members strong, including 32,000 defectors from APGA today,” Dr. Ezekwelu said. “This is more than an endorsement—it’s a mission. We are ready to win this battle with our PVCs.” APC Welcomes New Members APC State Chairman, Chief Basil Ejidike, welcomed the new members, describing the day as a “historic milestone.” “With Prince Ukachukwu, APC is poised to deliver the long-awaited transformation in Anambra. The tides are turning—and SOFIG has shown us the way,” he said, while donating ₦2 million to SOFIG on behalf of the party. Financial Powerhouses Fuel Campaign Momentum The rally also featured a significant financial show of force: As the 2025 polls draw closer, Saturday’s event signals a strong and coordinated push by the APC and its supporters to challenge APGA’s longstanding dominance in Anambra politics.

APC Launches Nationwide Membership Drive to Bolster Tinubu’s 2027 Re-Election Bid

Fola Badmus2 months ago2 months ago04 mins

As Nigeria moves closer to the 2027 general elections, the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has kicked off a large-scale membership registration campaign across the country, with the goal of reinforcing its grassroots support and securing a second term for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The drive, which is already underway in seven states—Ebonyi, Delta, Enugu, Bayelsa, Edo, Ekiti, and Akwa Ibom—is part of a broader strategic effort to consolidate the party’s dominance ahead of a heated electoral cycle. Sources quoted by Sunday PUNCH confirmed that additional states will soon join the mobilisation campaign, with the party aiming to register millions of new members before the December congresses. Speaking during the APC’s 14th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting held at the State House in Abuja, President Tinubu underscored the importance of grassroots engagement and party unity. “We are opening our doors to more members. The congresses in December will provide space for those still coming in. We welcome them with open arms,” Tinubu stated, as he rallied support for an inclusive and expansive APC. In a bold show of confidence, no fewer than 11 state chapters have pledged to deliver a combined 15 million votes for Tinubu in 2027. The President also hailed recent high-profile defections to the APC, including Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno, emphasizing the party’s willingness to embrace former opposition leaders and strengthen its national reach. APC National Chairman Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, who recently took over the party’s leadership, echoed Tinubu’s vision during an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today. He highlighted the APC’s current control of 23 states and 70 Senate seats, affirming that the party is determined to expand further. “My mission is clear: to unite the party and grow it. We’ll work hard to bring more people in,” Yilwatda declared. Pro-Tinubu support groups and local APC chapters have also begun mobilizing at the community level, affirming their readiness to ensure a high voter turnout for the president’s re-election. This aggressive registration push comes as the opposition gathers momentum under the African Democratic Congress (ADC)-led coalition, which is aiming to mount a serious challenge to the APC’s rule in 2027. With political temperatures rising and new alliances forming, the APC’s mass membership initiative signals a clear intent to retain power by building an even broader support base in the months leading up to the elections.