John Ayuba, who was the Peoples Democratic Party’s deputy governorship candidate in Kaduna State for the 2023 election, has left the party and joined the African Democratic Congress.
He confirmed his defection during a phone interview with PUNCH Online on Monday and also conveyed it in a resignation letter addressed to the PDP Ward Chairman of Ungwan Gaiya Ward in Zangon Kataf Local Government Area.
Ayuba said he decided to quit the PDP due to what he described as poor leadership and a lack of clear direction at the national level.
“It is with a heavy heart that I write to convey my difficult decision to resign my membership of our erstwhile great party,” the letter read in part.
The former deputy governorship candidate accused certain national stakeholders of jeopardizing the party’s future through mismanagement and involvement in anti-party activities.
“I have, over the last three years, watched with great concern the mismanagement of the future of our party at the national level by those who, I fear to say, do not mean well for its future.
“These events culminated in brazen acts of anti-party activities against our presidential candidate in the 2023 general election by highly placed party members,” he added.
Ayuba expressed disappointment that, months after the general elections, the party had failed to take meaningful steps to address key issues, leaving dedicated members disheartened.
He explained that his decision to leave the PDP came after thorough consultations with his political allies and supporters, emphasizing that staying in the party was no longer a viable choice.
While thanking the PDP for the platform and the opportunity to serve as its 2023 deputy governorship candidate, Ayuba said he believed it was time to move forward.
His departure adds to the growing number of prominent figures leaving the PDP in Kaduna and other parts of the country, amid post-election frustrations and internal party strife.
Kaduna PDP Deputy Governorship Candidate Switches To ADC
Oil Prices Increase As U.S.-EU Agreement Boosts Trade Confidence
Oil prices climbed on Monday following a trade agreement between the U.S. and the European Union, along with indications that the U.S. may extend its tariff pause with China developments that eased fears of higher levies dampening economic growth and curbing fuel demand.
Brent crude futures edged up by 22 cents, or 0.32%, to $68.66 per barrel as of 0035 GMT, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude also gained 22 cents, or 0.34%, reaching $65.38 per barrel.
According to IG Markets analyst Tony Sycamore, both the U.S.-EU trade pact and the potential continuation of the U.S.-China tariff suspension are bolstering global financial markets and lifting oil prices.
On Sunday, the U.S. and the European Union reached a preliminary trade deal that includes a 15% import tariff on most EU products half the originally proposed rate.
The agreement helped prevent a more severe trade conflict between two major economies that together represent nearly one-third of global trade and could have negatively affected fuel consumption.
Additionally, senior U.S. and Chinese officials are scheduled to meet in Stockholm on Monday in hopes of extending a truce that has so far prevented significantly higher tariffs, ahead of the August 12 deadline.
On Friday, oil prices settled at their lowest point in three weeks due to concerns over global trade and expectations of increased oil exports from Venezuela.
Venezuela’s state-owned oil company, PDVSA, is preparing to restart operations in its joint ventures under conditions similar to those permitted during the Biden administration, pending the reinstatement of authorizations by President Trump for partners to operate and trade oil through swaps, company sources revealed.
Despite Monday’s modest price increase, gains were capped by speculation that OPEC+ might continue relaxing production restrictions.
The Joint Ministerial Monitoring Committee (JMMC) of OPEC and its allies is scheduled to convene at 1200 GMT on Monday.
Four OPEC+ sources indicated last week that the panel is unlikely to suggest changes to the existing plan for eight member countries to boost output by 548,000 barrels per day in August.
However, another insider noted it was still too early to make a definitive judgment.
The alliance is focused on regaining market share, particularly as summer demand helps absorb the additional supply.
JP Morgan analysts reported that global oil demand rose by 600,000 barrels per day in July compared to the same period last year, while inventories increased by 1.6 million barrels per day.
Meanwhile, Yemen’s Houthi rebels warned on Sunday that they would target any vessel affiliated with firms conducting business with Israeli ports, regardless of nationality, as part of what they described as the fourth phase of their military campaign against Israel in response to the Gaza conflict.
Five Dead After Lone Gunman Opens Fire In Manhattan High-Rise
A man carrying a high-powered rifle unleashed deadly gunfire inside a Manhattan high-rise building Monday, claiming four lives before turning the weapon on himself. The building, located in Midtown, is known for housing the NFL’s headquarters and several top-tier financial firms.
Among those tragically killed was a 36-year-old NYPD officer originally from Bangladesh. Mayor Eric Adams paid tribute to him, calling the fallen officer a “true blue” hero. He had served on the police force for just over three years.
Officials have not released detailed information about the remaining victims, who include two male individuals and one female. A fifth person, another man, remains hospitalized in critical condition and is currently “fighting for his life,” the mayor stated.
Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch confirmed the shooter was 27-year-old Shane Tamura, a resident of Las Vegas with a known history of mental health issues. Tamura had reportedly driven across the country to New York shortly before carrying out the attack.
Authorities believe he acted independently. So far, no clear reason has been identified for the shooting, Tisch explained during a press briefing held later that night.
“Pure evil came to the heart of our city and struck innocent people and one of our police officers who were protecting those people,” said Patrick Hendry, leader of the Police Benevolent Association, during the briefing.
The officer who lost his life, Didarul Islam, leaves behind two children and a wife expecting their third. He had been stationed at the building as part of an NYPD deployment program that assigns uniformed officers to commercial locations for security purposes.
The rampage began in the skyscraper’s ground-level lobby during the busy evening commute, before the shooter proceeded to the 33rd floor where a corporate office is located by elevator. There, he shot himself in the chest, bringing the horrifying event to a close, according to Tisch.
A photo allegedly shared by law enforcement showing the suspect entering the premises with a firearm was widely circulated online. Authorities say their preliminary review of his record turned up no notable criminal background.
The high-rise at 345 Park Avenue is occupied by several major finance-sector organizations, including global firms and the National Football League’s main office.
A heavy law enforcement presence swarmed the area not long after the violence erupted.
“I just saw a lot of commotion and cops and people screaming,” said Russ McGee, 31, who was at a nearby gym when chaos broke out.
Another witness, 38-year-old Kyle Marshall, was working at an office near the scene when he received a message from his mother, warning him of an active shooter nearby. “Then she texted me the address, and I was, like, ‘Oh my God. That’s right next door to my building,'” he recounted.
Marshall said police locked down his office building until well into the evening. Though he lives in the San Francisco Bay Area, he regularly travels to New York for business.
“It doesn’t make me feel less safe to be in Manhattan,” he remarked. “The police responded quickly.”
Federal investigators were also dispatched from the FBI’s New York division to assist with the situation.
South Africa’s Lusikisiki Massacre Trial Begins
Six men accused of carrying out the Lusikisiki massacre have appeared before the Eastern Cape High Court in Mthatha as their trial officially began. The proceedings are expected to last around eight weeks, with the first state witnesses scheduled to testify in the coming days.
The case stems from the September 2024 killings in Ngobozana Village near Lusikisiki, where 18 people, most of them women attending a family gathering, were gunned down when assailants stormed two neighbouring homesteads. Several others were injured during the attack, which shocked the rural community and sparked a massive investigation.
The six accused face multiple charges, including 18 counts of murder, conspiracy to commit murder, kidnapping, robbery with aggravating circumstances, and illegal possession of firearms and ammunition. Four of the men are also implicated in the murder of ANC politician Mncedisi Gijana, who was shot dead in KwaBhaca a month before the massacre. Two other suspects initially linked to the case had their charges dropped earlier this year, leaving the current six to stand trial.
All the accused have pleaded not guilty. Among them is Mzukisi Ndamase, alleged to be the mastermind behind the killings, who has chosen to represent himself in court. Already serving a life sentence and an additional 15 years for unrelated convictions, Ndamase has denied involvement, claiming he has been continuously imprisoned for the past 17 years and could not have participated in the massacre. He has also requested access to witness statements and asked that his handcuffs be removed during proceedings so he can take notes effectively.
The trial is expected to feature testimony from survivors of the attack, and court preparation officers have been assigned to support witnesses due to the traumatic nature of the case. The hearings are scheduled to continue through mid-September as the state presents evidence in one of the Eastern Cape’s most devastating mass murder cases in recent history.
Peter Obi Cannot Afford To Rejoin PDP- ADC Spokesman
The African Democratic Congress has dismissed any chance of Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, rejoining the Peoples Democratic Party.
The coalition party argued that such a decision would pose significant political risks for the former Anambra State Governor.
ADC spokesperson Bolaji Abdullahi made this claim on Monday during an appearance on Prime Time, a current affairs show on Arise Television.
Abdullahi, a former PDP stalwart and ex-Minister of Youth and Sports, refuted claims that the PDP was making efforts to lure Obi back.
He maintained that the former governor was still a key figure in the coalition of opposition parties led by the ADC in preparation for the 2027 general elections.
He said, “Let me say clearly, Peter Obi is in the coalition.
“Regardless of what anybody is saying. But it is good to see that it has taken the coming on board of the ADC to get the PDP to begin to make some movements.
“But everyone knows the jugular of the PDP is in the hands of the ruling party. Peter Obi, more than anyone else, knows that he cannot take the risk of going to the PDP.”
This comes after former Minister of Information and founding PDP member, Professor Jerry Gana, in an interview, praised Obi as one of the few leaders with the credibility and capacity to help rebuild Nigeria.
In a recent interview, Gana described Obi as “a symbol of hope” and a vital figure in the struggle for good governance.
He stated, “Peter Obi is one of the finest leaders in this country.
“He is disciplined, prudent, and deeply committed to the Nigerian project.
“He is a key voice for the future of democracy in this country, and we need people like him at the forefront of a united opposition.”
Gana also emphasized the pressing need for a united front of credible opposition leaders, cautioning that no single party could successfully challenge the ruling All Progressives Congress in 2027 without coordinated efforts.
What You Should Know About The Latest U.S. Visa Renewal Policy Update
Starting September 2, 2025, the United States Department of State will implement significant changes to its nonimmigrant visa (NIV) interview waiver (IW) program.
The updated policy will restrict eligibility for interview waivers and reintroduce mandatory in-person interviews for many categories of visa applicants previously covered under exemptions.
Key Changes To The Interview Waiver Policy
Under the revised guidelines, only specific categories of B-1, B-2, and B1/B2 visa holders as well as diplomatic and official visa applicants will remain eligible for interview waivers.
This marks a departure from the broader policy implemented earlier this year, which allowed many nonimmigrant visa holders, including H-1B and F-1 applicants, to renew their visas without attending an in-person interview, provided their prior visa expired within the last 12 months.
From September, those with H-1B, L, and F visas will no longer qualify for the interview waiver based on the 12-month expiration rule.
This change is expected to significantly impact visa holders in employment and academic categories, who must now prepare to appear in person before a consular officer, even for renewals.
Additionally, applicants under the age of 14 and over the age of 79 who were previously exempt will now be required to attend interviews, except in diplomatic or official visa categories.
Who Are Eligible For Interview Waivers?
Despite the new restrictions, certain applicants can still avoid in-person interviews. These include:
Holders of full-validity B-1, B-2, or B1/B2 visas or Border Crossing Cards/Foils (for Mexican nationals) whose previous visa expired within 12 months or remains valid.
Applicants classifiable under diplomatic or official visa categories (A-1, A-2, C-3, G-1 through G-4, NATO-1 through NATO-6, and TECRO E-1).
To qualify for a waiver, eligible applicants must also:
Apply in their country of nationality or residence.
Have no record of prior visa refusal (unless overcome or waived).
Show no apparent or potential ineligibility for a visa.
Even for applicants who meet these criteria, consular officers retain the discretion to require in-person interviews on a case-by-case basis.
Interview Waivers Implications
This update supersedes the previous Interview Waiver Update issued on February 18, 2025, which had extended the waiver eligibility to broader nonimmigrant visa categories.
With the July 25 update, that flexibility has been rolled back, signaling a tighter and more security-focused visa adjudication process.
For B-1 and B-2 visa applicants, this means a continued pathway to visa renewal without interviews provided they meet the outlined conditions.
For others, including professionals on H-1B visas and international students on F-1 visas, this policy shift means preparing for longer wait times and the added step of scheduling and attending a consular interview.
Application Process And Expedited Appointments
Applicants must continue to submit the DS-160 online visa application form, pay the required visa fees, and book the first available appointment slot.
Those facing urgent, unforeseen circumstances such as a medical emergency or a school start date may request an expedited interview.
However, reasons such as tourism, weddings, or routine conferences do not qualify for expedited appointments.
It is also important to note that the interview waiver wait times only apply to locations where applicants submit their documents and passports. They do not include the time required for visa adjudication or document delivery.
As the U.S. adjusts its visa policies, applicants are advised to plan ahead, understand the specific requirements for their visa class, and ensure compliance with the new rules.
The latest changes reflect a more stringent approach to visa processing, particularly for employment-based and student categories, and underscore the importance of staying informed through verified official updates.
Electricity Act (Amendment) Bill: FG Considers Selling 11 Discos To New Investors
The Federal Government may repossess and re-privatise the 11 electricity distribution companies (DisCos) if they fail to inject fresh capital into the sector, according to provisions in the Electricity Act (Amendment) Bill, 2025 currently before the National Assembly.
The bill, sponsored by Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, aims to amend the 2023 Electricity Act and introduce sweeping regulatory reforms. It seeks to address years of poor performance, mounting debts, and stalled investments in the power distribution segment.
If passed into law, the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) will be empowered to compel core investors in the DisCos to recapitalise within 12 months. Failure to comply could lead to punitive actions, including share dilution, takeover, or outright re-privatisation—particularly for DisCos already under receivership or experiencing financial distress.
The draft legislation, proposes a comprehensive financing framework to be developed within a year. This framework would prioritise long-term local currency investments, reduce reliance on diesel and petrol-powered generators, eliminate unstructured subsidies, and stabilise the Nigerian Electricity Supply Industry (NESI), which is currently weighed down by a debt overhang of over N4 trillion.
The affected DisCos are Abuja, Benin, Eko, Enugu, Ibadan, Ikeja, Jos, Kaduna, Kano, Port Harcourt, and Yola. The bill also calls for a reassessment of equity contributions by both federal and state governments in the DisCos, aligned with their ownership stakes.
Under Sections 228J and 228K of the amendment, the Minister of Power and NERC are tasked with implementing a robust financing strategy to de-risk investments across the power value chain—from generation to distribution. It also recommends phasing out regressive subsidies and enforcing a transparent tariff system that ensures cost recovery for efficient operators.
While the bill has been welcomed by some stakeholders, others, including the Forum of Commissioners of Power and Energy, have criticised it, warning that it could disrupt the decentralised electricity market established under the 2023 Act.
Power sector experts and consumer advocacy groups have also raised concerns. Many argue that the proposed 12-month window for recapitalisation is too short, recommending a 24-month timeline similar to previous banking reforms. Others stress that recapitalisation will remain ineffective unless the government settles all outstanding subsidy debts and allows cost-reflective tariffs.
Minister of Power Adebayo Adelabu has repeatedly expressed frustration with the DisCos, accusing them of stalling reforms and underperforming despite multiple government bailouts and tariff reviews. In May, he publicly stated that those unwilling to invest should exit the sector.
A report by the Bureau of Public Enterprises in May 2025 revealed that over 70% of the DisCos have failed to meet performance targets set during the 2013 privatisation.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Power is piloting a reform programme involving two underperforming DisCos—one each from the North and South. The initiative, launched in collaboration with the Japanese International Cooperation Agency, is part of a broader plan to restructure the distribution segment.
When contacted for comments, a representative of the DisCos, speaking anonymously, said that once passed into law, the amended Electricity Act will be binding and must be implemented by all stakeholders. He noted that DisCos are prepared to cooperate with NERC and support reforms that improve the sector.
Electricity market expert Chinedu Amah said the issue isn’t a lack of policy but poor implementation. He called for the removal of inefficient subsidies and suggested that investment should be driven by market forces rather than obligation alone.
Another analyst, Habu Sadiek, echoed support for the bill but stressed the need for the government to first clear subsidy arrears and revise tariff structures. He also argued that the 12-month deadline for recapitalisation is unrealistic given the current economic climate.
The Ministry of Power has assured the public that the reform process is ongoing, with updates to be provided in due course, according to the Minister’s Special Adviser on Strategic Communications, Bolaji Tunji.
Can Corp Members Wear Skirts To NYSC? This Is What You Should Know
The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has long stood as a unifying institution for Nigerian graduates, known for its khaki uniforms, regimented drills, and strict codes of conduct. For many, it is a defining experience; a transition into adulthood and national service. But a recent court ruling has stirred public debate and legal reflection: Can religious convictions override NYSC’s uniform policy?
This question found its way into the courtroom when two former female corps members challenged the scheme’s dress code on the grounds of their Christian faith.
The judgment that followed could redefine how faith and federal policy intersect in Nigeria’s most symbolic youth program.
Why The Corpers Went To Court
Ogunjobi John Blessing and Ayuba Vivian, both former corps members, had one thing in common: their deep Christian conviction that wearing trousers was against their faith.
Citing Deuteronomy 22:5, a Bible verse that discourages women from wearing clothes meant for men, the women refused to wear the compulsory NYSC trousers during their service year. As a result, they were denied their discharge certificates.
Instead of letting the matter slide, they went to the Federal High Court in Abuja, claiming that the NYSC’s dress code violated their rights to religious freedom, human dignity, and protection from discrimination.
Their cases, filed separately in 2020 but heard together because of their similarities, brought an old debate back into public discussion, the clash between uniform rules and personal beliefs.
In June 2025, Justice Hauwa Joseph Yilwa delivered a landmark ruling. She declared NYSC’s refusal to allow the ladies wear skirts as unconstitutional. According to the judgment, forcing the women to wear trousers was a clear breach of their fundamental rights under the 1999 Constitution.
The judge ordered the NYSC to recall both women and issue them their discharge certificates. The court also awarded them 500,000 naira each as compensation for the humiliation they endured.
What Does The NYSC Handbook Say?
For years, NYSC has held tightly to its rule that all female corps members must wear trousers, especially during camp and official activities. The scheme insists that its uniform promotes unity, discipline, and uniformity among Nigeria’s diverse youths. Any deviation, the agency has argued, may disrupt the orderliness and identity the scheme is known for.
In the past, NYSC officials have been quick to dismiss requests for uniform exemptions based on religion, arguing that all participants sign up with full knowledge of the program’s structure. The message has always been clear: NYSC is a structured, secular program and everyone must comply equally.
However, this court ruling is likely to force NYSC to review that stance.
What Does The NYSC Act Say?
The NYSC Act, which guides the operations of the scheme, does not go into great detail about the specific dress code. It speaks generally about discipline, conduct, and the expected behavior of corps members.
The official NYSC handbook and camp guidelines are where uniform rules are explained in detail, including the enforcement of trousers for all female participants.
But here lies the key issue: internal policies like the handbook do not carry more weight than the Nigerian Constitution. When any guideline contradicts constitutional rights, the court has a duty to step in and correct it.
Has This Happened Before?
This is not the first time NYSC has faced legal challenges over its dress code. In 2014, a similar case came up when a Muslim corps member insisted on wearing her hijab with her full uniform. At the time, the matter stirred debate, though it did not lead to a major policy change.
What makes this current case different is that it went all the way to court and was decided in favor of the applicants. The ruling is not just symbolic. It sets a clear legal precedent that NYSC must now respect religious-based exemptions, at least in special cases where the applicant can prove genuine conviction.
Does The Court Have The Right To Intervene In Religious Matters?
This is where many people get confused. Nigeria practices a secular system, so the courts do not get involved in religious doctrine. That means judges won’t rule on what is “right” or “wrong” according to any religion. However, the Constitution gives every citizen the right to practice their faith without fear, pressure, or discrimination.
So, when a government agency, like NYSC, introduces a policy that forces someone to act against their religion, the court is empowered to step in. This is not about religion itself, it’s about protecting the person’s right to religious freedom. In the eyes of the law, no institution, no matter how powerful or old, is allowed to deny that right.
What Next?
The ruling opens up a new chapter in the NYSC’s story. With the court clearly stating that NYSC’s one-size-fits-all uniform policy violates fundamental rights, the scheme may now have to revisit its dress code.
We could see the introduction of official exemptions for religious reasons, just like how health conditions are treated. But this also raises a new set of questions: Will people misuse this? How will NYSC verify genuine religious claims? Will it cause division or confusion in the camps?
For now, what is clear is that the Constitution protects everyone’s right to serve their nation without compromising their deeply held beliefs. Whether in trousers or skirts, every corps member deserves to be treated with respect and dignity.
Boniface Mwangi Faces New Charges As Kenya’s Political Tensions Intensify
Prominent Kenyan activist Boniface Mwangi is facing fresh charges of unlawful possession of ammunition following the dismissal of an earlier terrorism case linked to him. Mwangi, known for his vocal criticism of government policies and advocacy for social justice, was initially accused of orchestrating violent anti-government protests that led to multiple deaths and extensive property damage.
The new charge stems from ammunition allegedly recovered during a raid on Mwangi’s residence when he was first detained. Prosecutors claim the discovery connects him to violent groups behind recent unrest, while Mwangi maintains the items were planted as part of an effort to silence him. His legal team argues that the accusations are politically driven and aim to deter public demonstrations against the administration.
The case comes at a time of heightened political tension in Kenya following weeks of demonstrations over economic reforms and governance issues. Human rights groups have condemned the renewed charges, warning that targeting activists under security laws risks undermining democratic freedoms.
While Mwangi’s arrest dominated national debate, the Nairobi Securities Exchange reported an unexpected increase in listings despite the volatile political climate. Analysts suggest the surge reflects attempts by businesses to project stability amid fears of prolonged unrest affecting investor confidence.
Kenyan authorities insist the charges are based on legitimate security concerns and not political interference. The case is expected to test the country’s legal and political landscape as Mwangi prepares to challenge the allegations in court.
Portugal Fights Major Wildfires Amid Hot Weather Across Country
Thousands of emergency responders, supported by a fleet of water-dropping aircraft, were actively engaged on Tuesday in suppressing three major wildfire outbreaks sweeping through parts of central and northern Portugal. Officials raised the fire threat level across much of the country following prolonged periods of extreme heat.
One of the most severe fires broke out near Arouca, approximately 300 kilometers north of the capital, Lisbon. As the flames spread through the area, civil protection authorities evacuated numerous residents and temporarily shut down the scenic Passadicos do Paiva boardwalk, a well-known destination for hikers and sightseers.
“It’s desperate to see this … we need help, we need air support,” said Rafael Soares, a resident of the village of Canelas, recalling a devastating wildfire last September which burned 6,000 hectares (15,000 acres) of forest near Arouca.
He blamed the fires on droughts linked to climate change that have left the area’s forests bone-dry.
Meanwhile, in the far north near the Spanish border, fires have been tearing through Peneda-Geres National Park since Saturday. The blaze produced heavy smoke that blanketed nearby towns and prompted authorities to issue repeated stay-at-home warnings to residents.
To assist with the effort, Spain dispatched several firefighting planes to help contain the flames in the border region.
Over in Spain, three separate wildfires were burning on Tuesday morning in the autonomous community of Castile and Leon. The most dangerous one was located outside the city of Avila, roughly 100 kilometers west of Madrid. Due to hazardous air quality, residents in the town of Mombeltran were instructed to remain indoors.
Although hot, dry summers are typical throughout the Mediterranean basin, the increasing frequency and severity of heatwaves have led to more frequent and intense wildfires in recent years attributed by many to rapidly rising global temperatures.
Turkey has been contending with numerous blazes over the past few weeks, worsened by soaring heat. Last week, ten firefighters tragically lost their lives battling a fire in the central region of Eskisehir.
Over the weekend, wildfires in Greece triggered evacuations across multiple villages, with at least five individuals sustaining injuries in separate incidents.
