The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has announced that it will press ahead with its investigation into Engineer Farouk Ahmed, the former Authority Chief Executive and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), even after the petition against him was withdrawn.
The anti-corruption agency revealed that it received a letter dated January 5, 2026, titled ‘Notice of Withdrawal of Petition against Engineer Farouk Ahmed,’ from Dr. O.J. Onoja, SAN and Associates, who serve as legal representatives to Alhaji Aliko Dangote.
This position was communicated in a statement issued late on Wednesday night by the ICPC’s Spokesperson and Head of Media and Public Communications, Okor Odey.
According to the Commission, the letter informed it that the petitioner had fully withdrawn the petition dated December 16, 2025, and noted that another law enforcement agency had assumed responsibility for the matter.
Odey said, “The letter from O.J Onoja SAN, states that the petitioner has withdrawn the petition dated 16th December, 2025, submitted against Engineer Farouk Ahmed, the immediate past ACE/CEO of the NMDPRA in its entirety and that another law enforcement agency has taken over.
“The ICPC wishes to state categorically that in line with the provisions of sections 3(14) and 27(3) of its enabling Act, the investigations in the interest of the Nigerian people and the Nigerian state have already commenced and are presently ongoing.
“The ICPC will therefore continue to investigate this matter in line with its statutory mandate and in the interest of transparency, accountability and the fight against corruption for the benefit of Nigeria.”
The Commission reiterated its resolve to discharge its anti-corruption responsibilities, stressing that the case would be handled strictly in line with the law and in the overall interest of the Nigerian state.
Fresh distress has engulfed hundreds of traders at Lagos’ historic Balogun Market following the sudden demolition of shops, allegedly carried out without prior notice. Bulldozers moved in while goods and personal belongings remained locked inside many of the structures, deepening the trauma of traders still recovering from the devastating Christmas Eve fire of December 24, 2025.
Viral videos circulating on social media show chaotic scenes at the market: heavy-duty machinery tearing through shops, clouds of tear gas hanging in the air, and distraught traders pleading with authorities for access to salvage their livelihoods. The development has shocked Nigerians nationwide, reigniting debates around urban renewal and government accountability.
In one emotional video, a female trader confronts officials amid tears, alleging that no notice was issued before the demolition. She claimed that many shop owners were away for the Christmas holidays when the operation began, leaving their goods trapped inside. According to her, tear gas was deployed, preventing traders from retrieving their belongings.
Another trader described the situation as a “double tragedy,” noting that many victims were only beginning to recover from the recent fire outbreak that destroyed properties worth billions of naira and claimed several lives. “Now, without any warning, our shops are being demolished with our goods inside,” the trader lamented.
The demolitions follow the tragic inferno at the 25-storey Great Nigeria Insurance (GNI) building, which reportedly killed at least eight people, trapped others beneath rubble, and caused massive economic losses. In response, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu ordered the demolition of the burnt structure and adjoining buildings deemed structurally unsafe, while sealing off the area to prevent further casualties.
However, traders insist that the ongoing demolition has extended beyond the officially declared unsafe zone, affecting additional shops and catching many off-guard during the post-holiday period. Balogun Market, one of Lagos’ oldest and busiest commercial centres, remains partially sealed, with traders warning that the prolonged closure has severely crippled their businesses.
Public outrage has since flooded social media, with calls for compensation, transparent engagement with traders, and a more humane approach to urban safety enforcement. Many Nigerians are questioning the timing and execution of the demolitions, especially so soon after the fire tragedy.
As the dust and tear gas settles, the Balogun Market crisis has once again brought national attention to critical issues of urban safety, trader welfare, and the need for compassionate urban renewal policies in Nigeria’s economic capital.
AA Rano Nigeria, a major player in the country’s downstream petroleum sector, has announced the launch of Nigeria’s first fully automated and unmanned fuel stations, signalling a significant leap in the digital evolution of fuel retailing.
The development is the result of a strategic partnership between AA Rano and Petrosoft Limited, a Nigerian technology company known for its downstream oil and gas management solutions. Through this collaboration, Petrosoft will roll out its automated fuel station technology across AA Rano’s retail outlets nationwide.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the company revealed that the unmanned stations are expected to become operational in January 2026. The stations will provide 24-hour self-service fuelling, support contactless payment options, and feature real-time monitoring, removing the need for on-site fuel attendants.
AA Rano explained that the new stations are aimed at boosting transparency, cutting down operational inefficiencies, and ensuring customers receive the exact volume of fuel they pay for.
Commenting on the initiative, the General Manager, Retail at AA Rano Nigeria, Mohammed Sule, said the move underscores the company’s commitment to innovation and improved service delivery in a highly competitive market.
“Our commitment to excellence and innovation led us to Petrosoft. By introducing unmanned, automated stations, we are not just adopting technology; we are setting a new standard for reliability and speed in the Nigerian downstream sector. This project ensures our customers can fuel at any time with total confidence,” Sule said.
Petrosoft Limited will power the unmanned stations using its proprietary SmartPump technology, which combines retail automation, corporate fuel management, and inventory tracking.
The system supports self-service refuelling, automatic vehicle identification for corporate fleets, and real-time dispenser control. It also includes advanced tank gauging and cloud-based monitoring to track fuel levels, detect leaks, and prevent fuel theft.
Speaking on the partnership, the Chief Executive Officer of Petrosoft Limited, Dr Joshua Denila, said the project highlights the potential of homegrown technology to solve persistent challenges in Nigeria’s energy retail sector.
“We are proud to partner with AA Rano on this historic project. Our solutions are 100 per cent locally developed but meet global standards for IoT and automation. From retail outlets to large-scale corporate fuelling hubs, our goal is to eliminate inefficiencies and deliver a world-class experience for end users,” Denila said.
The launch positions AA Rano at the forefront of innovation in Nigeria’s downstream petroleum industry, setting a new benchmark for efficiency, transparency, and customer convenience.
The political atmosphere in Rivers State shifted again on Thursday as members of the State House of Assembly commenced impeachment proceedings against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Ngozi Odu.
The lawmakers accused both officials of gross misconduct.
At a plenary session presided over by the Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Martins Amaewhule, the Majority Leader, Major Jack, formally read the notice detailing the allegations of gross misconduct against Governor Fubara.
Citing Section 188 of the Nigerian Constitution, Jack outlined seven allegations leveled against the governor.
Among the accusations were the demolition of the Assembly Complex, engagement in extra-budgetary spending, the alleged withholding of funds allocated to the Assembly Service Commission, and refusal to comply with a Supreme Court ruling on the financial autonomy of the House.
A total of twenty-six members of the Rivers State House of Assembly endorsed the notice.
After the notice was presented, the Speaker stated that it would be officially served on the governor within seven days.
Subsequently, the Deputy Leader of the House, Linda Stewart, presented a separate notice of alleged gross misconduct against Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu.
The allegations against Odu included reckless and unconstitutional use of public funds, interference with the House of Assembly in the discharge of its constitutional responsibilities as provided by the 1999 Constitution, and collusion to permit unauthorized individuals to occupy offices without proper screening by the duly constituted Assembly.
Additional claims accused her of seeking budgetary approval from another group rather than the legitimate Rivers State House of Assembly, as well as the alleged seizure of salaries and allowances due to the RSHA and the Assembly Service Commission.
Chelsea Football Club has sacked head coach Enzo Maresca, ending his 18-month tenure at Stamford Bridge amid poor Premier League form and internal tensions with the board. The club confirmed Maresca’s departure on January 1, 2026, following a run of one win in seven league matches that saw Chelsea slip in the table, coupled with rising fan dissatisfaction.
Maresca’s time in charge had early highlights, including European silverware such as the UEFA Conference League and FIFA Club World Cup, but recent results and reported disagreements with senior figures over tactics, player management, and medical decisions contributed to the split.
With the first-team slot now vacant, Chelsea are expected to appoint a new head coach imminently, and speculation has grown around a shortlist of potential successors.
Leading Candidates for the Chelsea Coaching Role
1. Liam Rosenior — The Frontrunner
Arguably the most talked-about candidate to replace Maresca is Liam Rosenior, currently manager of Ligue 1 side RC Strasbourg and widely reported as the club’s leading choice.
At 41, Rosenior is one of the youngest names linked to the Chelsea job. He has impressed in France, guiding Strasbourg to a strong position in Ligue 1 and European competition. His connection to Chelsea’s ownership, both Chelsea and Strasbourg fall under the BlueCo group — is seen as a key factor behind his prominence on the shortlist.
Rosenior has publicly acknowledged the speculation, stating there are “zero guarantees” regarding a move, but he has not ruled anything out.
Why he’s a candidate:
Strong performance with Strasbourg in France.
Good rapport with Chelsea’s ownership and understanding of club philosophy.
Ambitious and progressive tactical approach.
However, his lack of Premier League experience has drawn debate among pundits and fans alike, with some suggesting a more seasoned coach could be a safer appointment.
2. Cesc Fàbregas – A Familiar Face with a Growing Coaching Profile
Former Chelsea midfielder Cesc Fàbregas has also been mentioned among the names being monitored as the club searches for a new head coach, although his candidacy is understood to be at an early and exploratory stage. The Spaniard, who is transitioning into management following his playing career, has drawn attention for his tactical intelligence and leadership qualities, attributes that defined his time on the pitch and continue to shape his approach on the sidelines.
Fàbregas enjoyed a highly successful spell at Stamford Bridge between 2014 and 2019, playing a key role in Chelsea’s Premier League title-winning teams under José Mourinho and Antonio Conte. His deep understanding of the club’s culture, combined with his experience at the highest level of European football, makes him a compelling option, particularly for a Chelsea squad built around young, technically gifted players.
However, questions remain over his limited managerial experience at elite level, with some observers suggesting the Chelsea role may come too soon in his coaching journey. While an immediate appointment appears unlikely, Fàbregas is viewed as a long-term prospect rather than a front-runner, with Chelsea expected to continue monitoring his development as he builds his reputation in management.
3. Frank Lampard — Club Legend in the Mix
Another high-profile name linked to the role is Frank Lampard, the former Chelsea captain and club legend. Lampard is currently managing Coventry City, where he has been praised for steady progress and leadership.
Lampard previously had two spells in coaching roles at Chelsea, including a head coach position from 2019–2021 and a short caretaker stint in 2023. While his earlier managerial stints at Stamford Bridge yielded mixed results, his deep connection to the club and potential appeal to supporters make him a candidate worthy of consideration.
4. Other Names Under Consideration
Beyond Rosenior and Lampard, several other candidates have been discussed across reputable outlets:
Kieran McKenna – Currently at Ipswich Town, admired for his tactical acumen and player development work.
Francesco Farioli – Porto head coach with strong results in Portugal’s top flight.
Oliver Glasner – Linked by pundits as a more experienced option, though not currently confirmed.
Additional names such as Marco Silva, Andoni Iraola, and even ex-manager Jose Mourinho have been floated in the wider rumour mill, though their involvement is more speculative at this stage.
Interim Management and What’s Next
In the short term, Calum McFarlane, Chelsea’s Under-21 coach, will take interim charge of the first team. McFarlane, who joined Chelsea shortly before Maresca’s departure, will steer the side for their upcoming fixtures as the club works on naming a permanent replacement.
The club aims to make a swift appointment to stabilize performance amid a demanding schedule that includes Premier League and European competitions.
Chelsea’s managerial vacancy has sparked widespread discussion, with Liam Rosenior emerging as the current favourite to take over from Enzo Maresca, backed by ownership ties and encouraging performances abroad. Figures like Frank Lampard and Kieran McKenna remain in the conversation, each bringing different strengths — from club heritage to tactical credibility.
Whatever the final decision, Chelsea supporters and football observers will be watching closely as the club seeks the next leader to guide Stamford Bridge through the rest of the 2025–26 season and beyond.
United States President Donald Trump has announced that US forces have captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, following a wave of American military strikes on Venezuela.
Trump made the announcement on Saturday, January 3, 2026, after what he described as “large-scale” air operations targeting key military and strategic locations across the Venezuelan capital, Caracas. According to him, the operation was conducted in coordination with US law enforcement agencies and resulted in Maduro being apprehended and flown out of the country.
Posting on Truth Social, Trump stated that the United States had “successfully carried out a large-scale strike against Venezuela and its leader,” adding that further details would be released. He also disclosed that a formal press briefing would take place at 11:00 a.m. EST at his Mar-a-Lago residence.
The military action reportedly began in the early hours of the morning, with near-simultaneous explosions hitting major installations. Witnesses said Fuerte Tiuna, Venezuela’s main military base, and La Carlota air base were among the primary targets.
Residents of Caracas described intense explosions that reverberated across the valley, shaking buildings and sending thick black smoke into the air. Several areas of the city were left without electricity, while military helicopters were seen flying over the presidential palace.
Before reports of Maduro’s capture emerged, the Venezuelan government released a statement condemning the strikes, describing them as an act of imperialist military aggression. Maduro was said to have signed a decree declaring a “state of external commotion” nationwide and ordered the full activation of national defense plans.
Venezuelan authorities accused the United States of attempting to seize the country’s strategic resources, particularly its oil and mineral reserves, and urged grassroots groups and militias to mobilize in defense of the nation.
As the 2026 fiscal year begins across Nigeria, many state governments have moved early to activate their fiscal plans by signing their appropriation bills into law. As of January 2, 2026, no fewer than 22 states had completed this process, with total approved budgets exceeding N20 trillion.
This early passage reflects a coordinated effort across the country to strengthen capital spending, improve revenue generation, and channel resources toward critical sectors such as infrastructure, education, healthcare, agriculture, and security.
The budgets align with broader national economic priorities at a time of fiscal pressure and reform.
Recent data from BudgIT’s State of States report shows that subnational governments spent N15.63 trillion in 2024, representing a 64.69 percent increase from 2023.
Against this backdrop, governors have pledged to prioritize efficient implementation, job creation, and improved service delivery while reducing dependence on federal allocations.
A clear pattern across most states is the strong emphasis on capital expenditure, with many allocating more than 60 percent of their budgets to infrastructure and economic enablers.
Below is an overview of states that have signed their 2026 budgets into law, highlighting key allocations, priorities, and official remarks.
Abia State
Governor Alex Otti signed Abia State’s N1.016 trillion 2026 budget into law on December 29, 2025. The budget, titled Project of Acceleration and New Possibilities, retains an 80 percent allocation to capital expenditure amounting to N811 billion, while recurrent spending stands at N205 billion.
Priority sectors include infrastructure, health, education, and agriculture, aimed at addressing long-standing development gaps.
The governor praised the state assembly for its detailed review process and assured residents of faithful implementation.
Although part of the funding gap will be covered through N409 billion in borrowing and non-recurring sources, Abia’s debt-to-revenue ratio remains relatively low.
Anambra State
Governor Chukwuma Soludo approved Anambra State’s N766 billion budget on December 29, 2025, following an upward revision from the initial N757 billion proposal.
Recurrent expenditure increased to N169.6 billion, while capital allocations were expanded to support infrastructure and economic growth. Soludo described the budget as a strategic plan focused on transparency, inclusiveness, and people-centered development.
The budget was signed alongside several reform-oriented laws covering nursing education, tax administration, and correctional services.
Bayelsa State
Bayelsa State’s N1.016 trillion budget was signed into law by Governor Douye Diri on December 23, 2025.
The figure represents an increase from the initial N998 billion proposal. Capital expenditure accounts for N661.5 billion, or 65.11 percent, while recurrent spending stands at N354.5 billion.
The budget prioritizes infrastructure, education, and healthcare. The governor assured residents of full implementation and noted that borrowing would be kept minimal at N74.9 billion, relying largely on oil revenues and internally generated revenue.
Benue State
Governor Hyacinth Alia signed Benue State’s N695.01 billion 2026 budget into law on January 1, 2026.
Although a detailed breakdown was not provided, the budget focuses on agriculture, security, and social welfare. The governor emphasized timely execution to enhance food security and improve infrastructure across the state.
Delta State
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori signed Delta State’s N1.729 trillion Budget of Accelerating the MORE Agenda on December 16, 2025. Capital expenditure takes up 70 percent of the budget at N1.21 trillion, while recurrent spending is N519 billion.
Key priorities include road construction, education, healthcare, and youth empowerment. Funding plans include N694 billion from loans and grants to support capital projects.
Edo State
Edo State’s N939.85 billion Budget of Hope and Growth was signed into law on December 23, 2025, by Governor Monday Okpebholo. The budget focuses on security, infrastructure, agriculture, and education.
The governor highlighted its role in promoting sustainable development, with about N299 billion expected from loans, grants, and public-private partnerships.
Ekiti State
Governor Biodun Oyebanji signed Ekiti State’s N415.57 billion budget on December 23, 2025. The budget emphasizes human capital development, infrastructure expansion, and effective governance.
Oyebanji stressed continuity in fiscal management and the importance of disciplined implementation.
Gombe State
On December 29, 2025, Governor Inuwa Yahaya signed Gombe State’s N617.95 billion Budget of Consolidation into law. Capital expenditure accounts for N428.5 billion, representing 69.4 percent, while recurrent spending is N189 billion.
The budget includes dedicated funding for regional security, healthcare, education, support for persons with disabilities, and solid minerals development.
The state plans to finance about 60.8 percent of the budget through loans and other receipts.
Imo State
Governor Hope Uzodimma signed Imo State’s N1.44 trillion budget into law on December 31, 2025.
The spending plan focuses on infrastructure, agriculture, and social services, with the governor reaffirming his administration’s commitment to economic prosperity, although detailed allocations were not disclosed.
Jigawa State
Jigawa State’s N901.84 billion budget was signed on December 24, 2025, by Governor Umar Namadi.
The budget reflects public input and prioritizes infrastructure, agriculture, education, and healthcare, with a strong emphasis on capital development.
Kaduna State
Governor Uba Sani signed Kaduna State’s N985.9 billion budget on December 22, 2025. Capital expenditure accounts for N698.9 billion, or 70.9 percent, while recurrent spending is about 29 percent.
Education received the largest allocation at 25 percent, followed by healthcare and infrastructure.
The governor emphasized that no new taxes were introduced and highlighted reforms aimed at economic growth.
Kano State
On December 31, 2025, Governor Abba Yusuf signed Kano State’s N1.47 trillion budget into law.
The budget focuses on improving living standards through investments in education, healthcare, and infrastructure, which the governor described as a significant step toward long-term development.
Katsina State
Katsina State was among the earliest to pass its 2026 budget, with Governor Dikko Radda signing the N897.87 billion appropriation bill on November 26, 2025.
Capital expenditure accounts for 81 percent of the budget, totaling N727 billion, while recurrent spending stands at 19 percent.
The budget, titled Building Your Future III, prioritizes infrastructure, security, and agriculture based on consultations with residents.
Kebbi State
Governor Nasir Idris signed Kebbi State’s N642.9 billion budget into law on December 16, 2025. The budget emphasizes agriculture, education, and water resources development as key drivers of economic growth.
Nasarawa State
On December 29, 2025, Governor Abdullahi Sule approved Nasarawa State’s N545.2 billion Budget of Strategic Consolidation.
The budget focuses on infrastructure development and economic recovery initiatives.
Niger State
Governor Mohammed Bago signed Niger State’s N1.073 trillion budget on December 23, 2025, an increase from the initial N1.031 trillion proposal.
Capital expenditure stands at N783 billion, while recurrent spending is N290 billion. The governor commended the state assembly for its swift and efficient review process.
Ogun State
Ogun State’s N1.669 trillion Budget of Sustainable Legacy was signed into law by Governor Dapo Abiodun on January 1, 2026.
This represents a 58 percent increase from the 2025 budget. Capital expenditure is N1.044 trillion, with infrastructure alone receiving N526.15 billion.
The governor announced that implementation would begin immediately after the holidays and praised the legislature for its diligence.
Ondo State
Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa signed Ondo State’s N524.4 billion Budget of Economic Consolidation on December 29, 2025.
Capital expenditure is N303.6 billion, accounting for 57.89 percent, while recurrent spending stands at N220.8 billion. The governor described the budget as a firm commitment to economic progress and called for stakeholder support.
Osun State
On December 29, 2025, Governor Ademola Adeleke signed Osun State’s N723.4 billion budget into law.
The budget consolidates his administration’s five-point agenda, with a focus on welfare, infrastructure projects, and timely execution. He pledged full implementation during the final year of his first term.
Oyo State
Governor Seyi Makinde signed Oyo State’s N892 billion 2026 budget on December 22, 2025. The budget emphasizes production over consumption and aims to reduce dependence on federal allocations by expanding the state’s economic base.
Taraba State
Taraba State became the first state to pass its 2026 budget, with Governor Agbu Kefas signing the N653.5 billion Development We Can See budget on December 22, 2025.
Capital expenditure accounts for N457 billion, representing 70 percent of the total budget.
Zamfara State
Governor Dauda Lawal signed Zamfara State’s N861 billion budget into law on December 19, 2025. The budget prioritizes security, education, and healthcare as key areas of intervention.
Overall, the early signing of 2026 budgets across these states reflects a nationwide shift toward capital-driven growth and fiscal discipline.
States such as Abia, Delta, and Katsina have committed more than 70 percent of their budgets to capital projects. With total approved spending approaching N22 trillion and likely to increase as more states finalize their budgets, effective execution will be crucial.
While these fiscal plans could stimulate economic activity and improve living standards, their success will depend on managing inflation, boosting revenue, and ensuring transparency and accountability in implementation.
Russia and Ukraine accused each other of attacking civilians during New Year celebrations, as Moscow reported a deadly drone strike on a hotel in Russian-occupied southern Ukraine and Kyiv said Russia launched a large-scale assault on its energy infrastructure.
The allegations came amid intensive diplomatic efforts overseen by U.S. President Donald Trump to end the nearly four-year war, with both sides accusing the other of trying to sway Washington’s position.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said Russia launched more than 200 attack drones overnight on New Year’s Day, targeting energy facilities in seven regions.
Writing on Telegram, he said the strikes underscored Ukraine’s urgent need for air defence systems and called on allies to deliver equipment agreed with the United States in late December.
Russia, meanwhile, said Ukrainian drones struck a hotel and café in Khorly, a coastal village in the Russian-controlled part of Ukraine’s Kherson region, killing at least 24 people, including a child, and injuring about 50 others.
Vladimir Saldo, the Russian-installed governor of the region, described the incident as a deliberate attack on civilians celebrating the New Year and claimed some victims were burned alive.
Ukraine’s military said it targets only military and energy facilities and did not directly address Russian claims about the hotel strike. Kyiv has repeatedly accused Moscow of killing civilians through air attacks on Ukrainian cities.
Russia’s Foreign Ministry said the alleged attack was intended to divert attention from Ukraine’s military setbacks on the battlefield, accusing Kyiv of carrying out “terrorist acts.” Deputy Security Council Chairman Dmitry Medvedev said those responsible and their commanders should be targeted.
Earlier in the week, Moscow also accused Kyiv of attempting to strike a residence used by President Vladimir Putin, an allegation denied by Ukrainian and European officials. U.S. security officials were reported to have found no evidence that Ukraine targeted the residence.
Reuters said it could not independently verify the Kherson region attack or images released by Saldo’s office, which showed fire damage to a building and at least one body covered with a white sheet. Russia’s TASS news agency published footage of drone fragments bearing Ukrainian markings.
Ukrainian officials reported continued Russian attacks. Kherson region governor Oleksandr Prokudin said one man was killed and an 87-year-old woman injured in strikes on the Ukrainian-held city of Kherson. Deputy Prime Minister Oleksiy Kuleba said rail infrastructure was hit in three regions.
Russia’s Defence Ministry said its strikes targeted military facilities and energy infrastructure it claimed supported Ukraine’s armed forces.
Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said Russian air defences shot down 35 Ukrainian drones over the past 24 hours, reporting no casualties or damage.
Kherson is one of four Ukrainian regions Moscow claimed to annex in 2022, a move rejected by Kyiv and most Western countries as illegal.
A faction of the African Democratic Congress, led by National Chairman Nafiu Gombe, on Thursday rejected reports that former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi had defected to the party and registered at its Enugu zonal office.
The group, claiming to represent the authentic national leadership of the ADC, said the reported registration breached the party’s constitution and proper membership procedures.
Obi had announced his defection to the ADC at an event held at the Nike Lake Resort in Enugu State.
At the event, the former Anambra State governor called on Nigerians and opposition forces to come together under a broad coalition to “rescue Nigeria from poverty, disunity and democratic decline.”
In a New Year message issued from Abuja, Gombe said it was necessary to address misleading information circulating about the party’s membership registration process.
He emphasised that the ADC is built on discipline, order, and strict adherence to its constitution, with a clearly defined process for admitting members.
“It has come to our attention that a certain Mr Peter Obi was reportedly registered at a party zonal office in Enugu. The NWC wishes to categorically state that this action does not align with the constitutional and stipulated procedures for membership registration into the African Democratic Congress,” Gombe said.
He explained that registration with the ADC is done at the ward level, where prospective members must register within their state of origin or residence, which is recognised as the constitutionally approved point of entry.
Regarding membership cards, he noted that a validated card is issued only after successful ward-level registration.
The party’s constitution does not allow for registration at zonal or national offices.
“The party’s constitution does not provide for the registration of individuals at zonal or national offices outside of their designated wards. Any registration carried out contrary to this provision is considered irregular and invalid.
“Therefore, the office of the national chairman distances the original, constitutionally-governed ADC from the reported registration of Mr Peter Obi at the Enugu Zonal office. The party is investigating this breach of due process,” Gombe added.
He urged party supporters and the public to ignore claims suggesting alternative registration methods, stressing that ward-level registration remains the only legitimate process.
Gombe’s clarification came a day after the Julius Abure-led National Working Committee of the Labour Party described Obi’s defection as a “liberation” for the party.
The Labour Party’s National Publicity Secretary, Obiora Ifoh, said in a statement from Abuja on Wednesday that the party regretted presenting Obi as its presidential candidate in the 2023 election.
According to him, Obi’s exit only formalised a political separation that had existed for months amid an internal leadership crisis.
A structural collapse at a major rice milling facility in Birnin Kebbi has plunged the community into mourning, with emergency crews racing against time to rescue trapped workers and determine the full extent of the tragedy.
The partial collapse of a section of the Niagri Rice Production Facility, a private rice mill located in the Bulasa area of the state capital, occurred in the early hours of Tuesday. Initial reports confirmed that two workers have died and several others remain trapped or injured under debris from the wrecked machinery and structure.
Rescue Operations Intensify
Emergency responders from the Kebbi State Fire Service, Police Command, and other agencies have been on site since the accident, using heavy equipment to cut through twisted metal and collapsed machinery in an attempt to reach survivors.
The Kebbi State Commissioner of Police, Bello Sani, personally visited the mill to assess the rescue operation and coordinate ongoing security and emergency efforts. During the visit, officials confirmed that two bodies had been evacuated, while four other workers remained trapped, intensifying the urgency of the search and rescue mission.
One injured worker has been treated and discharged, according to police briefings, but the fate of those still trapped is yet to be fully determined. Authorities have pledged to intensify efforts to locate and safely extract any survivors.
Government Response and Condolences
The incident prompted swift action from the Kebbi State Government. Deputy Governor Senator Umar Abubakar Tafida led a government delegation to the scene to oversee operations and offer support to victims’ families. The state government extended deep condolences to the management and staff of NIA-AGRI, the owners of the mill, and assured the public that every possible effort is being made to bring the rescue mission to a successful conclusion.
Officials have also promised a full investigation into the cause of the structural failure once the urgent rescue phase is complete. The collapse has raised concerns about workplace safety standards and industrial oversight within the state’s booming agricultural processing sector.
Community Impact
The rice mill in question is part of Kebbi’s broader agricultural landscape, a state long known as one of Nigeria’s major rice producers, where large mills like WACOT and Labana operate alongside smaller facilities. These mills are central to local employment and food processing, contributing significantly to the state’s economy.
The tragedy comes at a time when the rice industry nationwide faces pressure from economic challenges, including rising costs, imported competition, and operational difficulties. While this incident is specific to structural collapse and emergency response, it underscores the broader importance of ensuring safe and resilient infrastructure in a sector critical to regional and national food security.
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