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  • Okpebholo assures 2027 victory for Tinubu, as 17 of 18 acting LG chairmen defect to APC

    Okpebholo assures 2027 victory for Tinubu, as 17 of 18 acting LG chairmen defect to APC

    BENIN CITY – THE governor of Edo State, Sen. Monday Okpebholo on Wednesday consolidated his hold on the polity of the state when he received 17 Acting chairmen out of the 18 local government areas in the state where he predicted that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu would win the 2027 presidential election with a landslide.

    He received the defectors at the New Festival Hall of Government House, Benin City, where he praised the leadership style of President Tinubu adding that the steps that the previous administration was.. afraid to take that would have put the nation on a sound footing for development and growth is what he took by removing the contentious fuel subsidy.

    The Governor said his administration is ready to work to change the lives of the people for the better, adding that in just four months in office, he and his team have changed the narrative of Edo State.

    He said: “I welcome you all our Chairmen who have come to join us, and I praise you for the courage and bravery to leave your party to join the APC. It takes a grounded politician to take this step you have taken today.

    “Let me draw your minds back to where we are coming from as an administration. We practically met that Edo state was not working when we came into office. What we met in Edo were insecurity, killings, looting the Edo treasury using consultants to deceive Edo people and other backward policies implemented by the Obaseki led administration, but we came and changed the narrative.”

    He also thanked the councillors who spoke for their various communities through the impeachment exercises in the councils and subsequent election of these new chairmen across the 17 local government areas of Edo State.

    “2027 is a reality in Edo State as President Bola Amed Tinubu will continue in office. I charge the 17 of you today that the campaign for the election of President Bola Tinubu has started here today. Go back to your various local governments and erect his billboards to draw home the message of re-electing President Tinubu.

    “There is no vacancy in 2027 in Abuja. Those forming a political party now can’t rule us. They ruled their States and the people suffered from kidnapping, but since they left offices, their States are now free. Such people can’t rule Nigeria,” he declared.

    The party secretary who received the decampees on behalf of the APC, Lawrence Okah thanked the new members, urging them to unite with other members of the party as the administration of Governor Okpebholo has come to rescue the State from retrogression.

    Responding on behalf of the Chairmen, the ALGON chairman and chairman of Esan Central Local Government Area of Edo State, Hon. Kelvin Iyere thanked the Governor and all APC party faithful for accepting them into the fold of the APC.

    Reacting to the defection, the PDP alleged that the governor gave the defectors N2 million each.

    A statement by the Publicity Secretary of the Caretaker Committee of the PDP, Chris Nehikhare said “We condemn in the strongest terms the reckless use of state resources to purchase support and loyalty, while critical sectors of the state remain in dire need of government intervention, from security to public safety and order, revenue generation, education, and healthcare, among others.

    “The security crisis in the last few weeks has claimed the lives of at least 40 innocent Edo citizens, who are victims of the brutality of herders, kidnappers, and other violent attacks. The activities of thugs and non-state actors who have continued to harass, intimidate and extort citizens of the State have remained unabated, leaving the majority of residents in fear and causing a drastic fall in revenue generation.

    “As a party, we remain confident that the judiciary will correct the injustice of September 21, 2024, and return the stolen mandate to the PDP and Asue Ighodalo, whom the people of Edo State overwhelmingly voted for in the last governorship election so as to bring an end to Okpebholo and APC’s rascality in the State.”

  • No explosion at Port Harcourt refinery, NNPC clarifies

    No explosion at Port Harcourt refinery, NNPC clarifies

    The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC Ltd.) has refuted reports of an explosion at the Port Harcourt Refining Company (PHRC) in Rivers.

    The company, in a statement issued in Abuja on Wednesday by its Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Olufemi Soneye, clarified that what occurred was a flare incident, which has since been fully contained.

    Soneye said there was no danger or health hazard to staff, the surrounding communities, or the environment.

    “NNPC Ltd. urges the media and the public to disregard any reports suggesting an explosion at the refinery, as they are entirely false,” he said.

  • EMERGENCY: Rivers Women go spiritual, say Tinubu ill-advised

    EMERGENCY: Rivers Women go spiritual, say Tinubu ill-advised

    PORT HARCOURT: Women in Rivers State have condemned President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in the state, turning to God for intervention.

    Hundreds of women from the 23 local government areas, under the aegis of Women Unite for Sim, gathered at Isaac Boro Park in Port Harcourt for a prayer session, expressing regret that the state would be placed under a Sole Administrator.

    Speaking at the event, Mrs. Ibim Semenitari, one of the group’s leaders, said the women have been praying for peace and security in Rivers State, trusting that God would intervene.

    Semenitari said: “We have been praying for the judgment of God on all who desire evil for Rivers State, and we have been praying for peace upon all who desire it.

    “As human beings, we feel disappointed because we want our governor to govern without encumbrances. However, we also know that God reigns over the affairs of men, and nothing happens without His knowledge, notice, or permission.

    “We believe the president seeks the good of Nigeria—we would like to believe that—but it is up to him to prove us right or wrong. We hope his actions are in the best interest of Rivers State and Nigeria.

    “Our governor has urged us to remain peaceful, and we will follow his directive. Governor Siminalayi Fubara has asked his supporters to be peace-loving and to avoid any acts of violence.

    “So, if the governor has said so, we should all abide by it and continue lifting our eyes to the Lord God Almighty, Jehovah Sabaoth, believing He will act for the people of Rivers State.”

    The former Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) said President Tinubu acted on poor advice but maintained that the women would not allow their voices to be silenced.

    Semenitari added: “I believe the presidency was ill-advised in this move. I don’t think it was well thought out. But then again, the president has a broader view of the situation, and I do not.

    “Rivers people must continue to trust in God, pray, and remain peaceful and law-abiding.

    “However, we must not allow our voices to be silenced. We must speak up—peacefully—and continue urging those in power to put Rivers first.”

    Also speaking, Nollywood actress Hilda Dokubo described the crisis as a battle for the economic soul of Rivers State, calling on President Tinubu to bring Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, to order.

    Dokubo said: “For the first time, we have seen that our riverine terrain is not an obstacle to development. Roads are now connecting riverine communities, and civil servants are being paid, including a 13th-month salary.

    “The economy is picking up, so why kill it again? That’s what they want to do—this is a fight for the economic soul of Rivers State. Someone wants to seize it.

    “This is not about all the drama with Siminalayi.”

  • There’s pending litigation on our revoked property – PDP

    There’s pending litigation on our revoked property – PDP

    ABUJA: The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has stated that there is an ongoing court case concerning its property, which was recently revoked by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Chief Nyesom Wike.

    The party’s National Publicity Secretary, Hon. Debo Ologunagba, disclosed this while addressing journalists in Abuja on Wednesday.

    He said, “There is a pending court case regarding the ownership of the property, with suit number CV 1363-17. The case was filed in 2017 between NICON Insurance Limited and the following defendants:

    “The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory is the first defendant in that case.

    “The second defendant is the Peoples Democratic Party. It is curious that the minister, who is a party to the ongoing litigation, is now revoking the same property. Here is the document.

    “The last court hearing was on February 10, where the minister was represented by his lawyers. Yet, about a month later, the same property is being revoked despite the case still being in court.

    “This shows that the issue goes beyond just revocation; there are other underlying matters at play. The next hearing is scheduled for May 5, and the case is still ongoing.”

  • Full list: Items you are not allowed to bring to the U.S

    Full list: Items you are not allowed to bring to the U.S

    Below is a breakdown of the key items you should avoid bringing into the U.S

    Traveling to the United States? Before packing your bags, you might want to double-check what you’re bringing along.

    While some items seem harmless, they might actually be prohibited or restricted under U.S. laws. From exotic foods to cultural artifacts, even a seemingly innocent souvenir could land you in trouble with Customs and Border Protection (CBP).

    Read also:

    6 food items Nigerians are not allowed to bring to Canada

    CBP enforces regulations for multiple government agencies, ensuring that harmful, illegal, or restricted goods do not enter the country.

    These laws are in place to protect public health, safety, the environment, and national security.

    Below is a breakdown of the key items you should avoid bringing into the U.S:

    Prohibited vs. Restricted Items
    Prohibited items: Completely banned from entry. These include dangerous toys, illegal drugs, certain vehicles, and items that threaten public safety.
    Restricted items: Allowed only with special permits or approvals. These include firearms, some agricultural products, and biological materials.
    Notable Prohibited & Restricted Items
    Dog and Cat Fur Products

    It is illegal to import, export, distribute, transport, manufacture, or sell products containing dog or cat fur in the United States. The Dog and Cat Protection Act of 2000, effective from November 9, 2000, mandates the seizure and forfeiture of any item containing dog or cat fur.

    Violations of this law carry hefty penalties:

    Up to $10,000 for intentional violations
    Up to $5,000 for gross negligence
    Up to $3,000 for negligent violations
    Drug Paraphernalia

    Bringing drug paraphernalia into the U.S. is illegal unless it is prescribed for authentic medical conditions, such as diabetes. CBP will seize any illegal drug-related items, and individuals caught importing, exporting, manufacturing, or selling such paraphernalia could face fines and imprisonment.

    Firearms and Ammunition

    Temporarily exporting firearms or ammunition—whether for hunting or recreational use—is strictly regulated. U.S. citizens, legal permanent residents, and nonimmigrant aliens must comply with export control laws, including:

    Export Administration Regulations (EAR): Requires a BIS license for exporting firearms.
    License Exception BAG: Allows temporary export under specific conditions.
    CBP Form 4457: Required for reentry with firearms and ammunition.

    Failure to comply with U.S. firearm export laws could result in legal consequences. Travelers must also ensure they follow firearm import regulations in their destination country.

    Fish and Wildlife Products

    Certain fish, wildlife, and products made from them are subject to strict import and export restrictions. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) enforces regulations on:

    Wild birds, land/marine mammals, reptiles, fish, shellfish, and invertebrates.
    Products derived from them, such as skins, bones, tusks, feathers, or eggs.
    Endangered species, including ivory and tortoiseshell items.

    Items made from ivory can only be imported if they are at least 100 years old and accompanied by documentation proving their authenticity.

    Alcohol & Absinthe

    Absinthe can only be imported if it is “thujone-free” (less than 10 parts per million of thujone). It also cannot have misleading hallucinogenic imagery on the label. For other alcoholic beverages, state laws at your first U.S. entry point will determine the allowable quantity.

    Automobiles

    Foreign vehicles must meet U.S. safety and environmental standards. Non-compliant cars must be modified or removed from the country. Importing a car temporarily (for under a year) is allowed for nonresidents.

    Biological Materials

    Items such as bacteria cultures, viruses, and animal tissues require permits from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

    Ceramic Tableware

    Although not restricted, imported ceramic dishes—especially from Mexico, China, India, and Hong Kong—may contain unsafe levels of lead. It is advisable to test them before use.

    Cultural Artifacts & Antiquities

    The U.S. enforces strict regulations on cultural property to prevent smuggling and illegal trade. Items like pre-Columbian sculptures, Byzantine icons, and Khmer stone artifacts require export permits from their country of origin. Stolen artifacts from museums or religious sites are outright prohibited.

    Agricultural Products

    Many fruits, vegetables, meats, and animal byproducts require USDA approval to prevent the spread of pests and diseases. “Bush meat” and certain exotic foods are completely banned.

    Drugs & Medications

    Illegal drugs like Rohypnol and certain foreign medications are prohibited. Even prescription drugs must comply with FDA regulations.

    Food Products (Raw and Prepared)

    Some food items are allowed, while others are banned due to health risks:
    Allowed: Bakery items, cheese, condiments, coffee, tea, packaged spices, honey, and certain oils.
    Banned: Bush meat (from African wildlife), meat-based soups, bouillon cubes, and some rice varieties due to pest concerns.

    CBP officers at U.S. entry points have the authority to seize prohibited or improperly declared items. If you’re unsure about an item, it’s always best to check with CBP before traveling.

  • FCCPC not a price control board – Bello

    FCCPC not a price control board – Bello

    The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) is not a Price Control Board, the Executive Vice Chairman, Mr. Tunji Bello, has said.

    He spoke at the 2025 World Consumer Rights Day celebration today, in Abuja.

    According to him, there has been a misconception among some members of the public who expect the FCCPC to act as a Price Control Board, insisting that the commission had no such mandate.

    His words, “Permit me to briefly respond to a very concerning trend. Which is what I consider the misconception of the role of FCCPC in some quarters.  I observe this tendency among some of our commentators in the media space who misunderstand the provisions of the law and inadvertently mislead the public.

    “To be sure, Sections 17 and 18 of the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018 expressly vest the Commission with the statutory authority to regulate competition and consumer protection across all sectors in our national life which is consistent global best practices.

    “This notion was, in fact, recently affirmed by the court of competent jurisdiction. In one word, the law charges the FCCPC to champion the rights of consumers of goods and services in Nigeria.

    “It is, therefore, very disturbing to hear or read parochial arguments of those who, out of ignorance of the law, seek to erect walls of sophistry against FCCPC in its discharge of this clear mandate.

    “The Commission has never claimed or pretended to be a price control board. Rather, we get involved when the rights of consumers are breached or when the market is being manipulated in a manner that impedes fair competition.”

    He said that the celebration was an opportunity for the FCCPC officials to rededicate themselves to championing the interests of the Nigerian Consumers.

    He said, “By the FCCP Act of 2018, our mandate is clear. Which is the promotion and protection of the interests and welfare of consumers by ensuring fair competition and ethical business practices. In the context of a just transition, this means.

    Ensuring affordability and accessibility. That is, sustainable choices should not be expensive or difficult to access; they should be within the reach of all consumers.

    Empowering consumers. That is, providing accurate information and raising awareness about the impact of their choices, so that they can make informed decisions.

    Holding businesses accountable. That is, ensuring that industries comply with environmental and ethical standards while preventing deceptive marketing of so-called ‘green’ products.

    Driving innovation and fair competition. That is, encouraging businesses to develop sustainable products and services while ensuring a competitive market that benefits consumers.

    Protecting vulnerable communities. That is, ensuring that low-income groups are not disproportionately burdened by the costs of the transition to sustainability.”

    Mr. Bello said the theme for this year’s celebration “A Just Transition to Sustainable Lifestyles” was apt considering the existential challenges facing humanity across the world at the moment.

    He observed that most countries were contending with inflationary trend which has been traced to the economic  disruption occasioned by COVID 19 of 2020 and Russian-Ukrainian war which brought fresh disruption to the global food supply chain, thus worsening the plight of consumers of goods and services.

    According to him, “Against this backdrop, it is therefore a matter of necessity that we rethink our choices and fashion new coping strategies to adapt to new realities.

    “Looking ahead, the world is undoubtedly moving towards a greener, more sustainable ways of living. The overarching challenge is ensuring that no one is left behind. Sustainability should not be a privilege for a few, but a right for all.

    “A just transition means making sustainable products and services affordable, accessible, and fair to consumers while ensuring that businesses and industries uphold responsible practices.”

  • Fake number plates: FRSC records 7,798 arrests in 2 months

    Fake number plates: FRSC records 7,798 arrests in 2 months

    The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC)  said it arrested 7,798 individuals in two months for offences related to fake vehicle number plates.

    The FRSC Corps Marshal, Malam Shehu Mohammed, revealed the statistics during a meeting with the House of Representatives Committee on FRSC in Abuja on Wednesday.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the meeting was prompted by concerns over the noticeable proliferation of fake vehicle number plates in the country which poses a significant threat to public safety.

    In addition to that, it also highlighted FRSC’s focus on addressing critical issues affecting road safety and national security.

    A statement by the Corps Public Education Officer (CPEO), Mr Olusegun Ogungbemide on Wednesday in Abuja added that Mohammed sought the National Assembly’s support for the Corps’ efforts.

    The Corps Marshal briefed the  Members on the general efforts instituted to clamp down on fake vehicle registration numbers amidst serious resistance by owners of vehicles with such fake number plates.

    He assured the Chairman and Members of the Committee of his commitment to improving the National Vehicle Identification Scheme (NVIS) Portal by ensuring that no vehicle with fake registration is allowed to be driven on Nigerian roads.

    “FRSC’s proactiveness came after recording a staggering 7,798 arrests of number plates related offenses in just two months,”he said.

    Speaking on the necessity of the ongoing clampdown, Mohammed informed the Committee that FRSC’s statistics reveal a disturbing trend of number plate-related offences, with many motorists flouting the law by using fake or unauthorised number plates.

    “This trend according to the Corps Marshal, poses significant security risks, as it hinders efforts to track and identify vehicles involved in crimes by security agencies,” he said.

    He, however, appreciated the support of the National Assembly, describing it as a significant milestone in the battle against fake number plates.

    He beckoned on them to work with the FRSC by strengthening existing laws and regulations that would ensure that offenders are brought to justice.

    The Corps Marshal, however, commended the National Assembly for its commitment to road safety and national security.

    He urged Nigerians to support FRSC’s efforts by obtaining genuine number plates and reporting any instances of fake number plates to the nearest FRSC Command.

    Speaking, the Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on FRSC, Honourable Abiodun Adesida, assured the Corps Marshal of the National Assembly’s support for the FRSC’s efforts, describing the crackdown as a step in the right direction.

  • PDP land title revoked over N7.6m ground rent debt – FCTA

    PDP land title revoked over N7.6m ground rent debt – FCTA

    Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) says the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) land title in the Central Area of Abuja was revoked because the party is owing N7.6 million ground rent from 2006 to 2025.

    The FCTA Director of Land, Mr Chijioke Nwankwoeze, stated this in Abuja on Wednesday while addressing newsmen after the FCT Executive Committee meeting, chaired by the Minister, Mr Nyesom Wike.

    Nwankwoeze also dismissed PDP’s claim that two of their properties were revoked, the one in Wuse Zone 5 currently occupying its national headquarters and the one in the central area.

    He said that only the land title in the central area belonging to PDP was revoked, adding that the one in Wuse Zone 5 does not belong to it.

    “The land in Wuse Zone 5 which currently occupies its national headquarters does not belong to PDP.

    “It belongs to one Mr Samaila Ofi, and the revocation notice had been served on him in his Kaduna address, the address on our record.

    “We did not serve any such notice to the PDP. The only one we served on them was the one in the central area.

    “You don’t serve revocation notice on a tenant or an occupier; you serve on the title holder,” he said.

    Nwankwoeze explained that Ofi bought the property from Wadata and got his papers registered by way of assignment, adding that the property was owing a 28-year ground rent amounting to N2.85 million.

    He stated that a total of 4,794 land titles had been revoked by the FCT minister, adding that PDP was just one of them.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that Wike has approved revocation of 4,794 land titles over unpaid ground rents for more than 10 years.

    Mr Lere Olayink,a Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media to the minister, had announced the revocation at a news conference in Abuja on Monday.

    Olayinka said that 8,375 property owners owed a total of N6.97 billion as ground rents as at the end of 2024.

  • FCTA ‘ll take possession of properties on 4,794 revoked titles – Official

    FCTA ‘ll take possession of properties on 4,794 revoked titles – Official

    Mr Chijioke Nwankwoeze, Director of Land, Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA), says the administration will take possession of properties built on 4,794 land titles revoked for unpaid ground rent in due course.

    Nwankwoeze stated this in Abuja on Wednesday, after the FCT Executive Committee meeting, chaired by the minister, Mr Nyesom Wike.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that the FCTA on Monday, announced Wike’s approval for the revocation of 4,794 land titles over unpaid ground rent for more than 10 years.

    Mr Lere Olayinka Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media to the minister, said at a news conference that a total of 8,375 property owners owed N6.97 billion as ground rent.

    Nwankwoeze said that so many people were affected, including government institutions, private organisations and private individuals.

    He identified some of the affected organisations as the Nigerian Port Authority, Central Bank of Nigeria, Independent Electoral Commission, National Universities Commission and the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Ltd.

    Others are Corn Oil, Boron Government, Niger Delta Development Commission, Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria, Federal Minister of Environment. Nigerian Security Printing and Minting Company among others.

    According to him, the properties of the 4,794 revoked titles have reverted to the FCTA “and in due course, the administration will take possession of them.”

    He, however, said there might be a window for the affected land title owners to appeal to the minister for reconsideration.

    “Anybody or any organisation, whose title is revoked by the minister has a window to approach the minister or write to him, appealing for reinstatement of such title.

    “The minister will look at it. If he wishes to reinstate the titles, he will; if there are conditions that will be attached to such reinstatement, if he considers it fit, he will.

    “Then, if he decides not to reinstate, so be it, because warnings have been sent out in the past and people refuse to comply,” he said.

    Nwankwoeze further said that appealing for reinstatement was the best thing for the affected title holders to do and desists from resorting to blackmail.

    According to him, most of the revoked titles are located in the 10 oldest districts in Phase I, fully serviced with the engineering infrastructure and other services.

    “So, if the government has fulfilled its part of the obligation by providing those facilities and amenities, you, a land title holder, is not doing your own part of the bargain, it will be difficult for the city to be managed.

    “So, we implore everyone who has not paid the ground rent to do so, including land title holders in Phase II comprised of Gudu, Utako, Mabushi, Jabi, Daki-biyu, Katampe, Katampe Extension and Kado Districts among others.”

  • Tricycle operator returns forgotten N2m to owner in Aba

    Tricycle operator returns forgotten N2m to owner in Aba

    Mr Emmanuel Obodoezie, a tricycle operator in Ariaria International Market, Aba, Abia on Wednesday returned N2.04 million to a trader who forgot it in his tricycle after alighting.

    Obodoezie was celebrated by Ariaria traders for remaining upright in the face of Nigeria’s economic hardships.

    The tricycle operator told the News Agency of Nigeria NAN) that he picked a woman along Powerline Road and she alighted somewhere around the Free Zone area where fish is sold.

    Obodoezie said that he told the woman that her fare was N300 but the woman gave him only N250 and he collected it from her without complaining while she left.

    He said that he did not look at the back of his Keke after the woman alighted and went away and so did not know that the woman left her bag in his tricycle.

    “Because of the bad roads, my machine was bending to one side and another side until the bag at the back of my machine fell off.

    “Then people who saw it fall began to call me to wait that my bag in my machine had fallen off.

    “I stopped and thought it must be the bag of the woman who I dropped off some minutes ago,” he said.

    He said that before I stopped, the person who picked it opened it and seeing it was money, wanted to take some from it but I refused to allow him and others to take the money.

    He said that he told one of them to hold the money while he would go and bring the owner.

    “I went in search of her and God being so kind, she was already coming to search for the tricycle operator who conveyed her and her goods to the market.

    “‘When I found her, I went to show her where I kept the money for her to take it,” he said.

    The owner of the money, Mrs Chika Aloysius-Iwu told NAN that she was to go to the bank with the N2.04 million in her bag.

    “After alighting, I forgot that money on top of the seat of his machine and left.

    “When I got to my stall, I remembered that I had forgotten money in that tricycle.

    “I knew the face of the man but did not know where he stayed so I went in search of him along the road where he stopped for me,” Aloysius-Iwu said.

    She said that she eventually saw him, and waved him down, he stopped and asked if she was the person he dropped off some minutes ago and she said yes.

    “He then said that he had been searching for me and then took me to the man he handed the money over to in case someone in the market began to search for her money that they should give it to her.
    “I don’t know what to say to this good man. I only pray that God will bless him and his generations and show them mercy always,” she said.

    The Chairman, Ariaria T-Line, Mr Emmanuel Njoku alias Ose, whose line the woman’s stall is situated said he was surprised to know that such a person exits in Nigeria at this time.

    He said that for such a man to do a good deed like that meant that he feared God and deserved to be blessed.
    Njoku urged the government and well-meaning Nigerians to encourage such good behaviors by recognizing the man and rewarding him.