The Social Democratic Party’s National Working Committee has officially expelled former Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai from the party.
El-Rufai has been banned from engaging with the party in any form for the next 30 years.
The party leadership accused him of misrepresenting himself as a member, interfering with its internal operations, and attempting to disrupt the organisation through unconstitutional means and deceitful political strategies.
This was disclosed in a statement signed and released to our correspondent by the National Publicity Secretary, Araba Aiyenigba, in Abuja on Monday.
According to Aiyenigba, the NWC arrived at the decision after a detailed probe into El-Rufai’s disputed membership claims and alleged backdoor political activities, which the party said have caused internal discord and jeopardised its unity and guiding principles.
The statement read, ” El-Rufai never registered with the SDP at his ward level as required by the party’s constitution, yet falsely declared on social media that he had joined the party. He further forged documents claiming membership and took photo opportunities with suspended party leaders to reinforce this falsehood.
“In line with the Constitution of the SDP, the ideology, manifesto, principles and practices thereof, and in consonance with the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Electoral Act pertaining to the exclusive right of a political party to determine its membership, the National Working Committee deliberated on the controversial membership status of Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai from Kaduna State who has in recent months been parading himself as a member of the SDP despite the assertion of the Kaduna State Executives that he has not joined the SDP but has instead been promoting the activities of other political party in the State.
“At the initial stage, this individual Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai was given the benefit of the doubt given his status as an elderly person, a former Minister and State Governor who should know the implications of false representation and impersonation, especially given the fact that he published on his social media handles that he had joined the SDP which led to congratulatory messages from prominent leaders of our party and a letter of support at his request by the National Publicity Secretary.
“However upon thorough inquiry, it turned out that the Kaduna State SDP was right and this individual had not joined the SDP. The following facts emerged: Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai failed to register at his Ward as required by the law despite falsely publishing on social media that he had joined the SDP.
“El-Rufai devoted so much time to putting up false representation of membership by seeking photo opportunities with the suspended National Chairman Shehu Musa Gabam and some leaders of the SDP who assumed that he had joined the SDP in Kaduna State; El-Rufai was confronted by serious eligibility problems given an unpleasant history of intolerance and persecution of the SDP as an opposition party during his time as the Governor of Kaduna State under the APC.”
The SDP further alleged that the former Kaduna governor had formed ties with the African Democratic Congress (ADC) while seeking to involve the SDP in an unsanctioned political coalition.
SDP said, “Having confirmed that he publicly declared for the ADC and continued to act in a manner contrary to the principles and practices of the SDP, the party has no option but to disassociate and excommunicate him.
“Consequently, El-Rufai has been banished and banned from applying to the membership, identifying with the name, insignia, logo, or participating in any affairs of the SDP for a period of 30 years, effective immediately”.
The SDP urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and other concerned authorities to recognise that El-Rufai is not a member of the party, emphasizing that he has no mandate to represent or speak for the organisation in any capacity.
Reiterating its dedication to internal democracy, national interest, and issue-based opposition, the party encouraged all Nigerians wishing to become members to follow due process and uphold transparency in their engagement.
“Apparently to run away from his past, El-Rufai proposed an elaborate welcome ceremony at the SDP National Secretariat in Abuja but was politely counseled that such a jamboree was not tenable and he should go home to register at his Ward in Kaduna State after passing simple eligibility interview and on boarding process.
“Rather than register lawfully with the Ward Executives, this individual simply forged his own documents and self-registered and arrogated to himself “number 001 in the SDP membership register of Unguwar Sarki Ward, Kaduna North Local Government Area”, as if the Ward had no single member prior to his purported joining. This is contrary to all existing and updated records of the SDP in Kaduna State.”
It will be recalled that El-Rufai recently declared his departure from the ruling All Progressives Congress and claimed to have joined the Social Democratic Party.
He attributed his exit to an increasing disconnect between his personal convictions and the APC’s present course.
El-Rufai Expelled And Banned For 30-Years
Niger Boat Tragedy Claims 13 Lives, 26 Rescued
A boat carrying 39 passengers capsized in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State, leaving 13 dead and 26 others rescued.
The vessel, heading to the Kwata Zumba Market, overturned near Guni village at about 11:45 a.m. on Saturday. According to the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA), the accident was caused by water turbulence and suspected overloading.
NSEMA’s Deputy Public Relations Officer, Malik Baba Suleiman, confirmed the incident on Sunday, stating that search and rescue efforts began immediately, and all 13 bodies were recovered. The deceased have been buried in line with Islamic traditions. Among them were eight women, three men, and two children.
The tragedy has thrown the local community into mourning, as residents expressed grief over the recurring nature of such disasters. In response, the state government has cautioned boat operators to strictly follow safety protocols, especially during the rainy season when water levels become dangerously high.
Saturday’s incident adds to a string of deadly boat accidents in the area. In November 2024, a boat transporting around 200 passengers from Kogi to Niger State capsized, resulting in at least 27 fatalities. The previous month, another serious mishap led to the deaths of dozens. In December 2023, 76 people lost their lives in Anambra State after a boat sank in a swollen river during flooding.
Despite the National Inland Waterways Authority’s efforts to enforce safety regulations—such as banning night travel and outlawing overloading—compliance remains weak across many riverine communities. Due to deteriorating road infrastructure and rising highway insecurity, a large number of Nigerians continue to depend on water transport for trade and daily travel.
Bayern Munich Finalise £65.5m Deal For Liverpool Star Luis Diaz
German giants Bayern Munich have reached an agreement to sign Liverpool winger Luis Diaz in a deal worth £65.5 million ($88 million), according to multiple reports on Sunday.
An initial offer of £59 million was turned down by the Premier League champions last week, but Bayern’s improved bid is now set to secure the services of the Colombian international.
Diaz has reportedly been granted permission to leave Liverpool’s pre-season tour of Asia to undergo a medical in Munich ahead of completing the transfer.
The 28-year-old joined Liverpool from Porto in January 2022 and has since won the Premier League, FA Cup, and League Cup during his spell at Anfield.
He enjoyed an impressive 2024/25 campaign, making 50 appearances and scoring 17 goals in all competitions as Arne Slot’s side lifted their first league title in five years.
Diaz was notably absent from Liverpool’s recent 4-2 friendly defeat to AC Milan in Hong Kong, amid growing speculation over his future.
“In Lucho’s [Diaz’s] case, there’s been a lot of speculation lately, and I can’t delve too much into it,” said Liverpool manager Arne Slot after the match. “He’s been training well, but we’ve chosen not to play him for now. I regularly speak with most of my players, but there’s not much more I can say at this stage.”
Diaz’s expected arrival offers Bayern a high-quality replacement for Jamal Musiala, who is facing a lengthy spell on the sidelines after suffering a broken leg and dislocated ankle during the Club World Cup earlier this month.
Meanwhile, Liverpool have been active in the transfer market, strengthening their squad with the high-profile additions of Bayer Leverkusen playmaker Florian Wirtz and Eintracht Frankfurt striker Hugo Ekitike.
The club has also reinforced its defence, bringing in Jeremie Frimpong from Leverkusen and Milos Kerkez from Bournemouth, while Valencia goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili has also joined the ranks.
Liverpool are reportedly considering a move for Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak, who is valued at around £150 million.
Yellow Greens Wrap Up Pearl Of Africa T20 Series With One Win
The Nigeria national men’s cricket team, the Yellow Greens, concluded their campaign at the Pearl of Africa T20 Series in Uganda with a six-wicket loss to Kenya on Sunday, finishing the tournament with just one victory from six outings.
Entering the competition as the lowest-ranked side, Nigeria faced stiff opposition from more experienced teams including Kenya, Uganda, the UAE, and Namibia.
Their sole win came on Friday in a tense match against Namibia. Defending a modest total of 105/9, the Yellow Greens held their nerve to restrict Namibia to 99/8, securing a thrilling six-run victory.
The tournament began on a challenging note for Nigeria, who narrowly lost their opening match to Kenya by 18 runs (DLS method) after being held to 88/9 while chasing 106.
On July 18, hosts Uganda posted a formidable 180/4, and Nigeria could only respond with 85/5, falling to a heavy 77-run defeat. The following day, despite a stronger showing with the bat (111 all out), Nigeria were outplayed by Namibia, who chased down the target with ease to win by eight wickets.
The struggles continued on July 21 against the UAE, where Nigeria collapsed to a lowly 58 all out, handing the Emiratis a comfortable seven-wicket win.
Facing Uganda again on July 22, Nigeria delivered a more disciplined bowling performance, limiting them to 147/6. However, the batting unit fell short once more, resulting in a 38-run loss.
In their penultimate match on Saturday, the Yellow Greens were outclassed again by the UAE, suffering a 53-run defeat. Despite these setbacks, Nigeria closed the tournament with a commendable effort against Kenya, posting 113/9 before their East African rivals chased down the target with six wickets to spare.
Individually, captain Sylvester Okpe led from the front with the bat, finishing as the team’s top scorer with 100 runs. He was closely followed by Prosper Useni (89 runs) and Isaac Danladi (88 runs). On the bowling front, Okpe, Peter Aho, and Taiwo Mohammed each claimed seven wickets, standing out as Nigeria’s top performers with the ball.
Under the guidance of head coach and former Kenyan international Steve Tikolo, the Yellow Greens will look to regroup and improve ahead of the ICC Men’s Africa T20 World Cup Qualifier, scheduled to take place in Zimbabwe from September 26 to October 4.
Former Mali PM Faces Investigation Over Alleged Misuse Of Public Funds
Mali’s Supreme Audit Institution (BVG) has accused former Prime Minister Choguel Kokalla Maiga of financial misconduct linked to the Universal Access Fund Management Agency (Agefau) during the years 2020 to 2023.
The 113-page audit highlights irregularities, including the approval of a questionable loan of over 20 billion CFA francs (about 30 million euros) to the treasury in April 2020. This occurred before Maiga assumed office in June 2021, raising questions about oversight and responsibility.
The report also points to unauthorized spending: almost 13 million CFA francs (about 20,000 euros) on staff phone subscriptions, 92 million CFA francs (about 140,000 euros) in fees not transferred to the state broadcaster ORTM, and roughly 15 million CFA francs (about 22,800 euros) worth of Wi-Fi and computer equipment missing from schools.
Maiga is specifically named in connection with two official trips in December 2023 to Konobougou and Dalala. These visits reportedly led to improper mission allowances of over 12 million CFA francs (around 18,300 euros) for his delegation, along with about 35 million CFA francs (around 53,300 euros) in what the audit called unjustified “sovereignty expenses.”
Although rumors circulated about a January 2, 2025 summons by Mali’s Supreme Court, Maiga’s legal team said no court date had been scheduled. However, the audit has been sent to the Supreme Audit Division of the Supreme Court, indicating potential legal action.
In his New Year’s address, Maiga rejected the accusations, describing them as baseless and politically motivated. He stated that he remained committed to maintaining government stability and had a clear conscience.
Shettima Attends UN Food Systems Summit In Addis Ababa
Vice President Kashim Shettima arrived in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, over the weekend to represent Nigeria at the second United Nations Food Systems Summit.
In a symbolic diplomatic gesture, he presented Ethiopia with 2,000 cashew seedlings and 100,000 cashew seeds on behalf of Nigeria.
His aircraft touched down at Bole International Airport at exactly 4:26 p.m. local time.
He was received by Ethiopia’s Deputy Prime Minister, Temesgen Tiruneh, alongside senior Nigerian officials, including the Chargé d’Affaires at the Nigerian Embassy in Ethiopia, Ambassador Nasir Aminu.
Also present at the airport to welcome the Vice President were the Finance Attaché, Dr. Suleiman Dauda; Deputy Defence Attaché (Air Force), Wing Commander Gabriel Batubo; Deputy Head of Mission, Ambassador Macy Ogbede; and First Secretary, Mr. Jangado Ishaku.
Shortly after his arrival, Vice President Shettima convened a strategy meeting with members of the Nigerian delegation, including Marion Moon, the Technical Assistant to the President on Agriculture and Executive Secretary of the Presidential Food Systems Coordinating Unit (PFSCU).
In a statement released yesterday in Abuja, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications in the Office of the Vice President, Stanley Nkwocha, said Shettima was briefed on Nigeria’s key priorities and planned engagements at the summit.
The Vice President is expected to join world leaders in crucial discussions on transforming the coffee value chain and will take part in roundtables and high-level meetings focused on strengthening Nigeria’s food systems and boosting agricultural sustainability.
The summit, which began yesterday and concludes tomorrow, serves as a global review of progress made since the inaugural 2021 Food Systems Summit and aims to inspire renewed commitments toward building inclusive, resilient, and sustainable food systems.
Nigeria’s priorities at the summit, as outlined by the Vice President during a pre-summit briefing in Abuja, revolve around three key goals: establishing Nigeria as a leader in African food systems reform, aligning international partnerships with domestic agricultural objectives, and promoting a private sector-driven approach to achieving food security across the continent.
In a significant move to enhance bilateral agricultural collaboration, Nigeria donated 2,000 cashew seedlings and 100,000 cashew seeds to Ethiopia, enough to cultivate approximately 600 hectares of farmland.
Ethiopia’s Minister of State for Agriculture, Dr. Efa Muleta Boru, accepted the donation, which follows Ethiopia’s earlier gift to Nigeria in June 2025 of 2,000 Haas avocado seedlings and 2,000 coffee seedlings.
This exchange of seedlings highlights the deepening agricultural ties between the two leading African nations and supports President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s agricultural transformation initiative, described by officials as “Green Revolution Diplomacy” a strategy that leverages agricultural partnerships to strengthen diplomatic relations and jointly address food security challenges.
Vice President Shettima is also slated to take part in ministerial roundtables focused on public finance, trade, and responsible investment, as well as field visits and networking sessions highlighting innovative and scalable solutions for food systems.
At Least 38 Killed In Eastern DRC Komanda Church Attack
At least 38 worshippers were brutally killed and 15 others wounded when suspected Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) rebels stormed a Catholic church in Komanda, Ituri province, in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The assailants, armed with machetes and guns, struck during an overnight prayer vigil early Sunday, leaving behind scenes of devastation.
Human rights activist Christophe Munyanderu, who was at the scene, said the attackers targeted Christians who had gathered inside the Caritas-run church. “Unfortunately, these people were killed with machetes or bullets,” he said. Witnesses also reported several homes and shops were torched, with many residents still missing.
DRC’s Radio Okapi put the death toll at 43, noting that over 20 of the victims were hacked to death. Charred bodies were also discovered in nearby burnt houses. Civil society coordinator Dieudonne Duranthabo told AP that the search for bodies continues: “We are truly disappointed because it is incredible that such a situation could occur in a town where all the security officials are present.”
Following the attack, panic gripped Komanda as many fled to Bunia town. Duranthabo urged swift military intervention, warning that “the enemy is still near our town.” DRC army spokesperson Jules Ngongo confirmed the assault, stating armed men with machetes had entered the church.
The ADF, which pledged allegiance to ISIL (ISIS) in 2019, has a bloody history in eastern DRC. Originally formed in Uganda in the late 1990s, the group moved its operations to DRC in 2002 after Ugandan military offensives. The militia has since been responsible for thousands of civilian deaths and a recent spike in attacks across Ituri.
The United Nations Organisation Stabilisation Mission in the DRC (MONUSCO) condemned the killings, linking them to a broader resurgence of violence in the region. Earlier this month, the ADF was accused of carrying out what a UN spokesperson called a “bloodbath” in Ituri.
While the DRC army continues to face challenges containing both the ADF and M23 rebels backed by Rwanda, officials are under pressure to restore security in Komanda and surrounding areas. Authorities have not yet released an official updated death toll but vowed to intensify operations against the ADF.
Gunman Opens Fire At Popular Bangkok Market, Leaving Five Dead
Authorities in Thailand have confirmed that five individuals lost their lives during a shooting incident at a well-known market in Bangkok.
The person responsible for the shooting at Or Tor Kor Market has also been confirmed dead, according to statements from police in the capital city.
Some victims are believed to be security personnel, based on initial local reports.
Or Tor Kor Market has a reputation for offering premium produce, including top-grade fruit and seafood.
Thailand has relatively high levels of civilian firearm ownership compared to neighboring countries. While large-scale shootings are uncommon, the country has witnessed several tragic events involving firearms in recent times.
In one such case in 2023, “a 14-year-old boy killed two people and injured five others in a shooting at a luxury shopping mall in the centre of Bangkok.”
Another tragic event occurred in October 2022, when “an ex-policeman killed at least 37 people, most of them children, in a gun and knife attack at a childcare centre in in Nong Bua Lamphu province in north-east Thailand.”
Earlier in 2020, “a soldier killed 29 people and injured dozens more in the city of Nakhon Ratchasima.”
Chloe Kelly Seals England’s Euro 2025 Triumph Over Spain
Chloe Kelly delivered the decisive penalty as England triumphed 3-1 in a shootout against Spain to win the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 title on Sunday, successfully defending their crown in a dramatic final that ended 1-1 after extra time.
The victory marked another remarkable comeback for Sarina Wiegman’s side, who previously overturned a two-goal deficit against Sweden in the quarterfinals and edged past Italy in the semifinals thanks to an extra-time winner again courtesy of Kelly.
Spain, reigning World and Nations League champions, took the lead in the 25th minute when Ona Batlle’s pinpoint cross caught England’s defence off guard, allowing Mariona Caldentey to head past goalkeeper Hannah Hampton.
With star forward Lauren James sidelined by an ankle injury, England initially struggled. However, the introduction of Chloe Kelly just before halftime turned the tide. Kelly helped shore up the left flank and later provided a perfect cross for Alessia Russo, who headed home the equaliser in the 57th minute.
Spain dominated possession and applied relentless pressure throughout regular and extra time, but England’s defence held firm, keeping the score level at 1-1.
In the penalty shootout, Spain made a strong start as goalkeeper Cata Coll saved Beth Mead’s opening attempt. But Hannah Hampton rose to the occasion, denying Caldentey and Aitana Bonmatí to swing momentum back in England’s favour. Though Coll responded with another save from Leah Williamson, substitute Salma Paralluelo squandered her chance by firing wide.
With the stage set, Kelly stepped up and reminiscent of her iconic 2022 winner against Germany delivered with a composed finish. Her signature prancing run-up was followed by a powerful strike into the net, sparking jubilant celebrations with teammates and fans alike.
“I’m so proud of this team, so grateful to wear this badge, and proud to be English,” said a beaming Kelly. “I stayed cool, stayed composed, and I knew I was going to hit the back of the net.”
The final was the first to be decided by penalties since the inaugural 1984 edition, when England lost to Sweden.
England goalkeeper Hampton praised her team’s resilience:
“Unbelievable, incredible we’ve shown throughout this tournament that we can fight back. We’ve got English blood in us, so we never say die. We just keep going, and we did that today.”
For Spain, the loss was a bitter pill. Bonmatí, who missed her spot-kick, admitted:
“I don’t have much emotion left I’m drained. I have to say sorry; I couldn’t convert my penalty. In my opinion, we were the better side, but sometimes in football, that’s not enough. Congratulations to England.”
NYSC Deploys 2025 Batch B Stream 1 Corps Members
The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has officially released the 2025 Batch B Stream 1 deployment list for prospective corps members.
The announcement, made via NYSC’s official social media channels, urges all registered graduates to log in to the NYSC portal and check their deployment status.
Prospective Corps Members (PCMs) are advised to print and sign the mandatory addendum document—required for registration at the orientation camp.
NYSC also cautioned PCMs against travelling at night to their designated orientation camps, emphasizing safety protocols for all participants.
Some candidates posted to Lagos State will instead attend camps in Ekiti, Ondo, Ogun, or Osun, while those assigned to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) are being redirected to camps in Nasarawa or Kaduna States.
The notice marks the official start of mobilization for Batch B Stream 1 and underscores NYSC’s commitment to a safe and organized orientation process.
