The All Progressives Congress, Nigeria’s ruling party, finds itself embroiled in an expanding web of strife as state factions clash over leadership, candidate selection, and party identity ahead of the 2027 elections. A Party at Crossroads Despite its hold on 23 states, the APC’s local branches are beset by disputes. In Lagos, the Justice Forum and Mandate groups’ rivalry triggered public outcry, with accusations of favoritism leading to direct confrontations and demands for the state chairman’s resignation. Rivers State’s APC structure remains contested, as two chairmen lay claim to legitimacy amidst contradictory court judgments and party statements. In Benue, a…
Author: Podium Reporters
Bashir El-Rufai, son of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, has stirred widespread outrage on social media after issuing a violent threat in response to a perceived insult directed at his mother. In a now-viral tweet, Bashir responded aggressively to a Twitter user identified as @jusstice09, who had earlier tweeted: “You no go die well ma,”—a derogatory comment apparently aimed at his mother. Reacting to the comment, Bashir tweeted: “If you ever utter that phrase to my mother again & delete that tweet, I am going to find you (it’s easier than you think) & unalive you & your family.”…
The Nigerian women’s basketball team, popularly known as D’Tigress, added another golden chapter to their story on Sunday after securing the FIBA Women’s Afrobasket title for the fifth time in a row. The tightly-contested final took place at the Palais des Sports de Treichville in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, where D’Tigress triumphed over a determined Malian side. This victory is more than just a win — it marks a historic milestone, as Nigeria becomes the first nation on the continent to win the Women’s Afrobasket championship five times consecutively. Guided by coach Rena Wakama, the team displayed tactical brilliance, teamwork, and…
Amid growing concerns over federal appointments, Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide has expressed disappointment over the extension of the Nigeria Customs Comptroller General’s tenure, warning that such actions could entrench regional imbalance in leadership structures. In a statement released by Dr. Ezechi Chukwu, the organization’s spokesperson, Ohanaeze pointed out that Deputy Comptroller General BU Nwafor, from Anambra State, may now miss the opportunity to succeed the current CG due to the extension. The group stated, “Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide is concerned that the extension of CG Adeniyi’s tenure may affect the expected elevation of DCG BU Nwafor, who is due for retirement in…
Lionel Messi’s night ended prematurely during Inter Miami’s intense Leagues Cup encounter with Necaxa, sparking fresh concerns over his fitness as the 38-year-old was withdrawn within the opening quarter-hour. Messi, who had looked lively from kickoff, seemed to feel discomfort following a clash near Necaxa’s box. He briefly lay on the ground in visible frustration before walking off. Moments later, he was seen sitting on the turf alone, prompting medical staff to step in. Coach Javier Mascherano later revealed, “Well, he felt a discomfort, and we will not be able to know until tomorrow how severe the injury is. There’s…
A swirling mix of accusations, public protests, and conflicting official statements has engulfed the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) as its Chief Executive Officer, Bayo Ojulari, stands at the center of a growing scandal involving alleged financial misconduct and political interference. Sources allege that Ojulari was coerced into signing a resignation letter late Friday by operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), reportedly with the backing of DSS Director-General Adeola Ajayi and EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede. The operation was said to have been conducted without the consent of President Bola Tinubu. Yet, the Presidency has moved quickly…
President Bola Tinubu’s drive for re-election has triggered a fierce rift within northern Nigeria’s political landscape, as ex-lawmakers find themselves on opposing sides of a growing ideological and political battle. The Northern Caucus Forum, an alliance of former members of the 9th National Assembly, recently endorsed Tinubu at a session facilitated by Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila. Describing Tinubu as “a national leader,” the group framed its support as a move toward sustaining national balance and development. Coordinator Rufai Chanchangi, representing the forum, stated that continuing Tinubu’s leadership would ensure “equity, fairness, and political stability.” Yet, the endorsement met instant…
A storm of political controversy has engulfed Saint Lucia following Nigerian President Bola Tinubu’s state visit, with Prime Minister Philip Pierre launching a scathing rebuke against detractors he accuses of undermining Afro-Caribbean unity. Speaking at a public ceremony on August 1 marking Emancipation Day, Pierre criticised local and international commentators who labelled Tinubu’s July visit wasteful and inconvenient. He expressed disappointment in the opposition’s handling of what he described as a critical opportunity for pan-African solidarity. “That behaviour was nothing short of shameful and disgraceful,” Pierre stated in his address. “Had the visit been from the Head of State of…
In a scathing critique of current governance practices, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has taken aim at Nigerian state governors, accusing them of squandering public resources and failing to deliver critical infrastructure. Kolawole Oluwadare, Deputy Director of SERAP, speaking on Channels Television’s Sunrise, described governors’ conduct as out of step with the realities facing the Nigerian populace. He noted, “The reality on the ground today is that most Nigerians perceive the governors as being profligate. It speaks to the level of poverty in Nigeria.” The SERAP official emphasized that the President, as Commander-in-Chief, bears both the constitutional and…
The industrial action by Nigerian nurses and midwives has come to a halt, four days after the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) commenced the protest. The strike, which began on Wednesday, was driven by a push for systemic changes within the healthcare system, including higher allowances and dedicated administrative representation. Confirming the suspension, Chidi Aligwe, Assistant Secretary-General, said, “The strike has been suspended. Nurses and midwives are to resume duty immediately.” The resolution followed a Friday meeting involving key federal bodies such as the Ministry of Labour and the Office of the Accountant General. NANNM’s circular emphasized…