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The Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN) has called on Government to consolidate and strengthen pipeline security architecture to boost and increase Nigeria’s crude oil production.

The Association observed efforts by the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Engr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari, in boosting crude oil production and strengthening the value chain across upstream, midstream, and downstream operations, over the last one year.

The National President of PETROAN, Dr. Billy Gillis-Harry, described the NNPCL GCEO’s first year in office as “a defining period that has restored confidence in the operations of NNPCL and demonstrated a clear commitment to reform and institutional strengthening.”

Dr. Gillis-Harry noted that the renewed emphasis on transparency and accountability, including the publication of operational and financial reports, represents a major shift towards global best practices, adding that such measures are critical in rebuilding trust among industry stakeholders and investors.

He noted that Ojulari’s one year in office is marked by bold reforms, improved transparency, and renewed operational efficiency in the oil and gas sector.

According to Gillis-Harry; Over the past year, PETROAN has observed significant strides in the management of NNPCL, particularly in the areas of governance, accountability, and commercial discipline. The introduction of structured financial and operational reporting systems has enhanced stakeholder confidence and repositioned the company in line with global best practices.

Billy Harry note with appreciation the renewed focus on revamping Nigeria’s refining capacity through strategic partnerships, alongside ongoing efforts geared towards the start-up and optimal functioning of government-owned refineries.

PETROAN believes that the timely operationalisation of these refineries remains critical to achieving energy security and reducing the nation’s dependence on imported petroleum products.

PETROAN as a key stakeholder in the downstream sector, acknowledges the positive impact of these reforms on product availability and distribution, though we recognize that challenges still exist in pricing stability and supply consistency. We therefore encourage sustained engagement with industry players to ensure that the benefits of these reforms are fully felt at the retail end.

PETROAN further urges the NNPCL leadership to deepen inclusiveness in policy implementation, especially in areas affecting product allocation, logistics, and infrastructure development. Greater collaboration with retail outlet owners will enhance efficiency and promote seamless delivery of petroleum products nationwide.

He stressed that while the progress recorded is commendable, there is a need to sustain the momentum through inclusive policies and stakeholder-driven initiatives that will guarantee long-term stability, efficiency, and growth in Nigeria’s petroleum downstream sector.

To ensure sustainable crude management and value chain growth, he urged immediate commencement of production at the Port Harcourt Refinery and Warri Refinery to enhance local refining capacity and reduce dependence on imports.

The Association further called for improved stakeholder engagement through regular consultations and inclusive decision-making processes across the downstream sector.

“The GCEO should find time to undertake operational visits to the Port Harcourt, Warri, and Kaduna refineries to assess progress firsthand, engage with stakeholders on ground, and reinforce commitment to their timely and sustainable functionality.

5. Improve the volume of crude oil allocated to local refineries to enhance domestic refining capacity, reduce import dependency, and stabilize the supply of petroleum products in the country.

“While applauding the achievements recorded so far, we call for continued commitment to transparency, fairness, and stakeholder participation in critical decisions within the sector, including issues surrounding pipeline security and equitable distribution of opportunities among host communities.

“PETROAN reaffirms its support for reforms that promote sustainability, efficiency, and growth in Nigeria’s petroleum industry. We remain optimistic that under the leadership of Engr. Bashir Bayo Ojulari, NNPCL will continue on the path of transformation for the benefit of all Nigerians.” he added.

admin by — April 4, 2026 in Business 0
Stanbic IBTC Sets Growth Agenda For Key Industries At Inaugural Nigeria Business Summit

Stanbic IBTC, has successfully hosted the 2026 edition of the Nigeria Business Summit from Wednesday, 01 April to Thursday, 02 April 2026, at the Landmark Event Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos.

The two-day summit brought together industry leaders, policymakers, entrepreneurs and stakeholders across multiple sectors to explore sustainable business practices, foster economic growth and unlock global trade opportunities.

With the theme, ‘Nigeria Means Business: Powering Sectors, Growing Sustainable SMEs & Unlocking Global Trade’, the summit addressed critical issues across key sectors, including agribusiness, renewable energy, trade and Africa–China banking, as well as ICT and telecommunications. Additional sessions covered areas such as family business sustainability, artificial intelligence, employee value banking, insurance, pension and wealth management.

The event featured a keynote address by the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, who emphasised the urgent need for Nigeria to reposition itself as a leading export-driven economy to achieve sustained growth.

“Our true potential lies in becoming a leading export economy,” Edun stated. “Increased participation in regional and global trade will be critical to diversifying foreign exchange earnings and driving inclusive growth.”

He noted that while Nigeria’s GDP growth has improved to approximately 4 per cent, it remains below the level required to significantly reduce poverty. According to him, the country’s economic strategy is now shifting from stabilisation to growth acceleration, with trade expansion playing a central role.

Edun highlighted ongoing reforms, including improved foreign reserves, rising non-oil revenues and renewed investor confidence, as indicators of a more resilient economy. However, he stressed that enhancing trade competitiveness would require continued investment in infrastructure, logistics and policy coordination. He also highlighted the importance of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which account for over 90 per cent of businesses, noting that inclusive growth will depend on stronger collaboration between the public and private sectors.

Participants engaged in a rich line-up of activities, including expert presentations, panel discussions and high-level networking opportunities. Highlights of the summit included the Africa Trade Barometer presentation, client testimonial showcases and insightful discussions on the state of the African economy and intra-African trade opportunities.

Breakout sessions on agribusiness, ICT and healthcare, Africa-China banking and Trade as well as renewable energy provided attendees with deeper, practical insights into some of the most critical sectors driving Nigeria’s economic future.

Speaking at the event, Chuma Nwokocha, Chief Executive of Stanbic IBTC Holdings, represented by the organisation’s Chief Finance and Value Management Officer, Kunle Adedeji, emphasised the importance of collaboration and innovation in driving sustainable growth.

“This summit has reinforced the importance of creating platforms where ideas can flourish and businesses can grow sustainably. By working together, we can unlock new opportunities and drive economic advancement across Nigeria and the African continent,” he said.

The summit also spotlighted practical strategies for integrating sustainability into business operations, encouraging organisations to adopt environmentally conscious practices while maintaining profitability and competitiveness.

Remy Osuagwu, Executive Director, Business & Commercial Banking, expressed satisfaction at the level of interest from participants, a critical element for a successful summit.

“From our conversations on energy and healthcare to the deep dives into trade, Africa-China relations, and agribusiness, Day 1 has offered perspectives that were both insightful and practical. I believe we’re all leaving with a stronger understanding of the opportunities emerging across our industries” Remy said.

He acknowledged the level of engagement, questions, contributions and willingness of participants to share experiences; describing this as the real power of the Nigeria Business Summit, and a solid foundation for tomorrow.

The Chief Executive of Stanbic IBTC Bank, Wole Adeniyi, who was represented by Bunmi Dayo-Olagunju, Deputy Chief Executive of Stanbic IBTC Bank, opened Day Two of the Nigeria Business Summit by highlighting the focus of the summit’s SME Day.

Bunmi said, “Today, we build on Day One’s momentum with conversations that are equally critical for the future – from the dynamics of family businesses to the growing influence of artificial intelligence; the evolution of insurance, and the emerging space of electric vehicle banking.”

She further added, “Our goal on Day Two is simple: to explore what’s next. To understand how these developments will shape our businesses and how we can position ourselves ahead of the curve.”

Stanbic IBTC’s inaugural Nigeria Business Summit stands as a testament to the organisation’s commitment to empowering businesses, strengthening key sectors and positioning Nigeria as a competitive player in the global economy.

admin by — April 4, 2026 in Business 0
Fidelity Bank Partners Aircraft Finance Germany To Grow African Aviation Industry

Fidelity Bank Plc, has announced the signing of a strategic partnership agreement with Aircraft Finance Germany (AFG) to advance the aviation sector in Nigeria and across Africa by both organisations.

The agreement was formally executed by Mr. Christian Hatje, Managing Director, Business Aviation and SVP Commercial, representing AFG; and Mr. Stanley Amuchie, Executive Director and Chief Operations and Information Officer of Fidelity Bank Plc at a signing ceremony in Germany recently.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Mr. Christian Hatje stated, “This partnership marks a significant milestone in our commitment to Africa’s aviation future. Partnering with Fidelity Bank, Nigeria’s leading aviation financier, we are confident in our ability to structure solutions that will drive meaningful growth across the sector.”

Through this partnership, both institutions will work closely to identify, finance, and grow aviation opportunities across the continent. The collaboration aims to provide innovative leasing and financing solutions that support airlines, aviation operators, and related stakeholders in expanding capacity, modernizing fleets, and strengthening operational and fleet efficiency.

“Fidelity Bank remains dedicated to supporting the aviation industry through tailored financial solutions. Our collaboration with AFG strengthens our capacity to provide sustainable financing that will contribute to the expansion of aviation in Nigeria and across Africa,” explained Mr. Stanley Amuchie.

This partnership reflects a shared vision to foster long-term development, stimulate investment, and create sustainable opportunities within the African aviation industry.

Nigeria remains a strategic hub for aviation development in Africa. By combining AFG’s leasing expertise with Fidelity Bank’s deep sector knowledge and financial strength, the partnership is positioned to unlock new growth pathways and enhance the sustainability of the aviation ecosystem.

This collaboration in Africa forms part of AFG’s broader global portfolio expansion strategy, reflecting the company’s continued commitment to structured aviation investments across multiple international markets.

Fidelity Bank is regarded as a market-leader in the Nigerian aviation industry with a long list of interventions across the value chain. Its aviation finance solutions support aircraft acquisition and leasing, route expansion, aviation infrastructure development, cargo and export enablement; and partnership structures for large projects.

admin by — April 4, 2026 in Business 0
Skyway Aviation Handling Company Posts Strong Profit

Skyway Aviation Handling Company Plc delivered a robust financial performance for the year ended December 31, 2025, with profit after tax more than doubling to N11.73 billion, underscoring strong operational momentum and improved efficiency across its business lines.

The company’s audited results show revenue rose significantly by 54 per cent to N44.46 billion in 2025, up from N28.94 billion recorded in 2024. The growth was driven largely by increased demand for passenger and cargo handling services, alongside improved contributions from ancillary and Value Chain operations.

Costs of sales also climbed during the period, rising to N18.98 billion from N12.56 billion in the prior year. However, the increase was outpaced by revenue growth, resulting in gross profit expanding to N25.48 billion from N16.38 billion in 2024.

Operating performance remained strong, with profit from Operations nearly doubling to N14.62 billion compared with N6.53 billion recorded a year earlier. This was achieved despite higher administrative expenses, which rose to N11.24 billion from N10.05 billion, reflecting inflationary pressures, increase in utility and increased personnel costs.

After accounting for a tax expense of N2.55 billion, profit after tax stood at N11.73 billion, representing a 142 per cent increase from N4.83 billion in the previous year.

Total comprehensive income for the year came in at N11.42 billion, compared with N6.89 billion in 2024, reflecting a foreign exchange loss of N314.5 million during the period, in contrast to a gain recorded in the prior year.

The company’s balance sheet remained solid, with total assets increasing to N56.58 billion as at December 31, 2025, from N41.78 billion in 2024. The growth was largely driven by a significant rise in property, plant and equipment, which climbed to N24.61 billion from N16.03 billion, indicating continued investment in operational capacity.

Shareholders’ equity also strengthened, rising to N39.87 billion from N29.27 billion, supported by retained earnings growth to N21.74 billion.

Cash flow generation improved markedly, with net cash inflow from operating activities rising to N13.47 billion from N5.01 billion in the previous year. The company ended the year with cash and cash equivalents of N5.70 billion, up from N3.03 billion in 2024.

Despite increased capital expenditure of over N11 billion on fixed assets, Skyway maintained positive financing cash flow, supported by additional borrowings during the year.

Earnings per share rose to 867 kobo from 357 kobo in 2024, reflecting the strong profitability performance and enhanced shareholder value.

The company, however, declared a final dividend of N1.6 billion to its shareholders for the year under review.

Overall, Skyway Aviation Handling Company’s 2025 results highlight strong revenue expansion, good operational efficiency, and sustained investment in infrastructure, positioning the firm for continued growth amid rising demand in Nigeria’s aviation services sector.
Speaking on the Company’s financial performance, the Managing Director/CEO stated that the results reflect the strength of SAHCO’s strategic direction, the resilience of its business model, and the unwavering commitment of its workforce. She noted that despite a challenging operating environment marked by inflationary pressures and rising costs, the Company sustained strong margins and nearly doubled its operating profit.
Dr. Barr Taiwo Afolabi (CON), Chairman of Skyway Aviation Handling Company PLC commenting on the financial report, emphasized that sustained investments in modern equipment and infrastructure have been instrumental in driving operational efficiency, enhancing service delivery, and positioning SAHCO for long-term growth.

admin by — April 4, 2026 in Business 0
ADC: Retrace your steps, don’t put 2027 election in jeopardy – ACF warns Tinubu, INEC

The Arewa Consultative Forum, ACF, has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, to reconsider recent actions, warning they could threaten the 2027 general elections.

ACF National Publicity Secretary, T. A. Muhammad-Baba, spoke to Leadership newspaper on the state of the nation, expressing concern over what he described as troubling developments in the country’s electoral process.

He cited INEC’s removal of the leadership of the African Democratic Congress, ADC, led by David Mark, as well as the proposed voter revalidation exercise, as actions capable of undermining democratic stability.

Muhammad-Baba said such measures could erode public confidence in the electoral system, noting that they risk creating uncertainty ahead of the next general elections.

He further warned that Nigeria is already grappling with worsening insecurity and economic challenges, stressing that introducing political tension at this time could aggravate the situation.

“It looks like every step taken by INEC or the political authorities is putting the 2027 election into jeopardy. It is not too late, and we hope we call on the government, we call on INEC, we call on all those concerned to retrace their steps and stand by the principles and the tenets of democracy.

“Otherwise, all these things really portend a crisis, and it is not good for the country. We have enough. We have enough problems with insecurity. We have enough problems with economic hardships,” Muhammad-Baba said.

According to him, stakeholders must adhere strictly to democratic principles to avoid plunging the country into a fresh political crisis.

The ACF spokesman called on the federal government, INEC and other relevant actors to retrace their steps and ensure that all actions taken strengthen, rather than weaken, the nation’s democracy.

admin by — April 3, 2026 in News 0
Accord condemns alleged police funding from illicit sources

Osun State chapter of the Accord has once again criticised the All Progressives Congress, APC, over the alleged the use of proceeds of crime to support security agencies in the state.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the state chairman of the Accord, Victor Babalola Akande, said the development was disturbing and disgraceful.

Akande accused the APC of promoting illegality under the guise of security support.

The accusation is coming after the Osun APC in a statement on Thursday also criticised Governor Ademola Adeleke and the ruling Accord over alleged politicisation of security matters in the state.

The party in the statement signed by Kola Olabisi, its Director of Media and Information, said the protection of lives and property should remain the foremost responsibility of all tiers of government.

The statement faulted recent remarks by the Accord criticising local government efforts to support security agencies.

According to the APC, the condemnation of local council chairmen for donating operational vehicles to the police was “uncalled for, frivolous and ill-motivated.”

Meanwhile, Akande in the counter statement stated that “empowering the police with proceeds of crime is not patriotism, it is criminality dressed in borrowed robes.”

Insisting that such actions violate both legal and moral standards, he also alleged that individuals presented by the APC as elected council officials lacked the legal standing to manage public resources or initiate programmes tied to security.

According to him, “what the APC describes as assistance to security agencies represents a dangerous precedent where questionable authority meets questionable funding.”

The Accord chairman also criticised the APC’s record in governance, claiming the party had previously demonstrated disregard for due process and administrative accountability.

He warned that matters relating to security should not be politicised, adding that ignoring due process could undermine public safety rather than strengthen it.

“The police, as a respected national institution, must not be dragged into the murky waters of partisan illegitimacy. I urge caution in dealings involving law enforcement agencies.

“The Accord reiterated its rejection of what it termed a shameful narrative. Governance must adhere strictly to legal and procedural standards.

“Residents of Osun State deserved responsible leadership and attempts to legitimise alleged illegal actions could erode public trust and threaten order,” he warned.

admin by — April 3, 2026 in News 0
EFCC seeks permanent forfeiture of 57 properties linked to Ex-AGF, Malami to FG

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, has explained to the Federal High Court in Abuja why the 57 properties linked to a former Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, SAN, should be permanently forfeited to the Federal Government.

The EFCC, in a motion on notice for final forfeiture of the properties filed by its team of lawyers led by Jibrin Okutepa, SAN, and Ekele Iheanacho, SAN, told Justice Joyce Abdulmalik that Malami had failed to place sufficient evidence of genuine ownership before the court to warrant the court to vacate the earlier interim order granted on the properties,

The motion, marked: FHC/ABJ/CS/20/2026, named Malami, his son, Abdulaziz Abubakar Malami, his wife, Hajia Bashir Asabe and Abiru’ Rahman Abubakar Malami as 1st to 4th respondents.

Others are Rayhaan Bustan and Agro Allied Ltd, Mountain View Gold and Jewellery Ltd, Amasdul Oil and Gas Ltd, Azbir Arena Nigeria Ltd, Meethaq Hotels Ltd as 5th to 9th respondents.

They also include Rayhaan University Ltd/GTE, Rayhaan Hotels Ltd, Zeenoor Hotels Ltd, Kawsar Ben of Brahim, Alhaji Muktaka Usman Junju, Real Edge Agro Services Ltd as 10th to 15th respondents respectively.

The application was brought pursuant to Section 17 of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud-Related Offences Act, No. 14 of 2006.

The anti-graft agency sought a ‘final order of the court forfeiting to the Federal Government of Nigeria, the properties described in the schedule below, which were found by the commission as properties reasonably suspected to be proceeds of unlawful activities.”

Giving six grounds why the application should be granted, Okutepa submitted that the court has the statutory powers under the provisions of Section 17 of the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud-Related Offences Act, 2006, to grant the reliefs being sought.

The lawyer said it is a non-conviction-based asset forfeiture proceeding.

According to him, the properties sought to be attached and forfeited are reasonably suspected to be proceeds of unlawtul activitics.

“This honourable court made an interim order forfeiting the properties to the Federal Government of Nigeria.

“The order of the honourable court has been published in a national daily, namely THISDAY Newspaper of 9th January, 2026.

“No sufficient cause has been shown why the properties under the interim forfeiture order should not be finally forfeited to the Federal Government of Nigeria,” Okutepa argued.

In an affidavit in support of the motion, Daniel Adebayo, an investigating officer with the Special Duties Committee of the EFCC, said he had the consent of the commission’s chairman to depose to the affidavit and from facts gathered in the course of the investigation.

He said the commission received several petitions against the former minister from different organisations alleging a serious case of corruption, abuse of office and fraud.

He said upon receipt of the series of petitions, his team carried out several investigation activities which included making inquiries and receiving financial records from commercial banks and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

He said the team wrote and received response from the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), the Federal Inland revenue Services (FIRS), the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) and the Abuja Geographical Information System (AGIS).

He said it also include the Land Registry of Kebbi State, Sokoto State and Kano State, Kebbi State Inland Revenue Service, FCT Inland Revenue Services, National Universities Commission (NUC), visiting the sold landed properties and valuation of the assets.

The officer said the team invited and interviewed individuals who featured in the investigation.

He listed Malami’s lawful sources of income while he served as Minister between 2015 and 2023, including salaries, allowances, estacodes, which total sums were not proportionate to the alleged properties he illegally acquired.

“I know as a fact and verily believe the findings of the investigation, which are as follows:

“Mr. Abubakar Malami, SAN, was the Hon. Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, hereinafter referred to as HAGF, from 2015 to 2023.

“He was paid a total of N89, 664, 000.00 as salary between 2015 and 2023, whilst in office, with an average payment of N962,663.68 per month.

“He also received a severance allowance of N12, 158, 400.00 at the end of his tenure in office.

“Mr. Malami SAN was also paid estacodes allowances to cover his travel expenses whenever he travelled outside the country on official trips.

“He calculated and declared a total sum of N253, 608, 500.00 as the amount he received for the official trips between 2015 and 2023 in a letter written to the Chairman of the CCB as an addendum to his Assets Declaration Form in June 2023.

“Attached and collectively marked as Exhibit EFCC 2 & 3 are copies of the asset declaration forms filled out by Mr. Malami SAN from 2015 to 2023, together with a letter dated 16th of June, 2023 written by him to the Chairman of the CCB as addendum to the assets declaration form as found at his house during EFCC’s execution of search warrant.”

He said “aside the actual acquisition of the properties which are manifestly disproportionate to Mr. Malami SAN‘s known and lawful sources of income, no building permits/approvals from appropriate authorities were obtained to erect most of the various structures in Kano and Kebbi States as part of a scheme to disguise unlawful origin of the funds used to acquire the assets.”

Adebayo alleged that Malami indirectly acquired some of the assets either in his name or through third-party individuals or front companies/entities (which are currently under his chairmanship vide the Rayhaan Group Ltd).

The EFCC listed the 57 multi-billion naira landed properties located in Abuja, Kebbi, Kano and Kaduna States, including temporary and permanent sites of Rayhaan University in Kebbi.

Justice Abdulmalik has however fixed April 21 for the hearing of the commission’s motion.

A sister court, presided over by Justice Emeka Nwite, had, on January. 6, ordered the interim forfeiture of the 57 properties suspected to be proceeds of unlawful activities to the Federal Government.

The judge made the order following an ex-parte motion moved by the EFCC’s lawyer, Iheanacho.

The judge had directed the commission to publish the order in a national daily for interested person(s) to show cause, within 14 days, why all the properties should not be permanently forfeited to the Federal Government.

The case was, however, reassigned to Justice Obiora Egwuatu after the vacation ended but Egwuatu recused himself from the matter, citing personal reasons and in the interest of justice, before it was reassigned to Abdulmalik.

Malami and others had since challenged the anti-graft agency’s civil suit, praying the court to vacate the forfeiture order.

admin by — April 3, 2026 in News 0
Police present N53.3m to families of fallen officers in Lagos

Lagos State Police Command, on Thursday, convened a high-level security stakeholders’ meeting as part of activities marking the 2026 National Police Day, reaffirming its commitment to community-based policing and officer welfare.

The event, held in Lagos, also featured the presentation of cheques to families of officers who lost their lives in the line of duty, drawing participation from key groups including the Police Community Relations Committee, PCRC, the Eminent Persons Forum, community and religious leaders, as well as representatives of the National Youth Council of Nigeria, NYCN.

Addressing participants, the Commissioner of Police, Fatai Olaiwola Tijani, commended stakeholders for their sustained support in crime prevention and public safety, stressing the need for stronger collaboration in tackling security challenges across the state.

He emphasized the importance of synergy between the police and the public, particularly in ensuring swift responses to distress calls and maintaining law and order.

The police chief also highlighted key concerns such as cultism and electoral violence, assuring that the Command would continue to deploy intelligence-driven strategies and modern technology to improve its operational capacity.

In a solemn highlight of the event, the Command presented a total of N53,387,209.48 to families of fallen officers under the Inspector-General of Police Family Welfare Scheme.

The gesture, according to the Command, reflects the Nigeria Police Force’s continued commitment to supporting families of personnel who died in active service.

Beneficiaries expressed gratitude to the Inspector-General of Police and the Lagos Command for the financial support, noting that the assistance would help ease the burden faced by families left behind.

Reaffirming the Force’s position, the Commissioner assured that the sacrifices of the fallen officers would not be forgotten, adding that the police would remain steadfast in providing support to their families.

admin by — April 3, 2026 in News 0
Easter: NSCDC deploys 2,250 personnel in Lagos

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, has deployed a total of 2,250 personnel across Lagos Sate to ensure adequate security during the Easter celebrations.

In Lagos State, 2,250 officers and men have been stationed at worship centres, recreational parks, and other strategic locations, to guarantee a peaceful and incident-free festive period.

The Lagos State Commandant of the Corps, Adedotun Keshinro, said the operation is aimed at safeguarding lives and property, as well as protecting critical national assets and infrastructure across the state.

He reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to ensuring the safety of residents and securing vital installations in all sectors of the economy.

Speaking during a meeting with senior officers, including management staff, area commanders, divisional officers, and heads of tactical and counter-terrorism units at the Command headquarters in Alausa, Keshinro disclosed that operational strategies had been strengthened to curb criminal activities and prevent vandalism before, during, and after the celebrations.

He added that the Lagos Command would work closely with other security agencies to achieve effective coordination and maintain public safety throughout the festive period.

Keshinro urged officers and personnel to remain proactive and committed to securing key locations such as oil pipelines, public facilities, places of worship, parks, and other sensitive points across the state.

According to him, the Command has also intensified intelligence gathering, surveillance operations, and patrol activities, while deploying specialised units, including the Special Female Squad and Quick Intervention Squad, to respond swiftly to any security threats.

He assured residents that both physical and intelligence-driven strategies have been put in place to ensure comprehensive security coverage throughout the Easter period.

The Commandant congratulated Christians on the celebration and called on them to reflect the virtues of love, sacrifice, humility, and tolerance, which define the Easter season.

admin by — April 3, 2026 in News 0
BREAKING: INEC dismisses calls for Amupitan’s removal, clarifies action against ADC leaders

The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, has reacted to the call made by the African Democratic Congress, ADC, for its Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan to resign immediately.

During their World Press Conference in Abuja on Thursday, ADC, through its national Chairman, David Mark called for the sack or resignation of Amupitan, alleging partisan bias.

This was on account of the decision of the Commission to remove the name of the party’s leaders from its portal a decision it described as obedience to a recent Court of Appeal Judgment.

The Commission said it recognises the right of stakeholders to express their views, but said it was imperative to clarify that INEC is a creation of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

A statement signed by Adedayo Oketola, the Chief Press Secretary to the INEC Chairman noted that the appointment, tenure, and removal of the Chairman and National Commissioners are strictly governed by Section 157 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

“The Chairman does not hold office at the pleasure of any political party or interest group. Any call for removal outside the established constitutional process is not only a distraction but a direct assault on the independence of the nation’s electoral umpire,” it said.

“While a political party or a group is allowed to protect their interest, the Commission decided to comply with the Judgment of the Court of Appeal to avert a situation that occurred in Zamfara State and Plateau State where elected officials were removed by the Election Tribunal on account of the disobedience of Court Judgment.

“In addition, the Commission did not want to disobey the preservative order of the court not to do anything or take any step that would render the processes already filed at the Federal High Court nugatory.

“Proceeding to monitor the congress and convention of the David Mark-led ADC would amount to a disobedience of that order since the relief claimed in the Originating Summons and other court processes filed include an order restraining INEC from monitoring any meeting, congress and convention of the party.

“Additionally, it was only on the 9th of September 2025 that INEC accepted and approved David Mark’s Exco, which was seven days after the matter was filed at the Federal High Court.

“The order to maintain status quo ante bellum means the position of the parties before the beginning of hostilities. It is either that INEC obey the order of the Court of Appeal fully or refuse to obey it. Section 287(2) of the Constitution of Nigeria, 1999 mandates every person and authority in Nigeria not only to obey the Judgment of the Court of Appeal but also to enforce such Judgment.

“Far from undermining the multi-party system, the Commission under Professor Joash O. Amupitan, SAN, has actively expanded the democratic space. The recent registration and recognition of the Democratic Leadership Alliance (DLA), the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) and National Democratic Party (NDP), bringing the total number of active political parties to 22, is an empirical rebuttal to any claim of a one-party agenda. INEC remains a neutral regulator, not a participant in political competition.

“The Commission’s updates to party leadership records are strictly anchored on compliance with subsisting court orders and statutory requirements under the Electoral Act 2026.

“INEC will not be drawn into the internal strife within political parties, nor will it allow itself to be used as a proxy for resolving organisational challenges that belong to the parties themselves, especially when the Court of Appeal has ordered that the matter be granted accelerated hearing.”

The Commission also said that it has noticed an attempt to politicise the planned nationwide Voter Revalidation exercise.

“The decision to revalidate the Voters Register pre-dates the appointment of Professor Amupitan. The proposed nationwide voter revalidation exercise is a professional necessity to strengthen the integrity of the National Register of Voters. The current register includes data spanning from 2011 to 2024. This exercise is designed to sanitise the register and is to be executed in phases,” it added.

“The revalidation is intended to confirm the status of registered voters, address issues arising from transfers, multiple registrations and deceased persons, and enhance the reliability of voter data in Nigeria. It is an administrative audit, not a fresh registration.

“It is not targeted at any region, party, or demographic. It is a uniform, transparent process that will be conducted across all Local Government Areas and Polling Units, with robust digital options for ease of access. All the stakeholders will be carried along on this issue.

“The Commission is currently focused on the surgical precision required for the forthcoming Ekiti (June 2026) and Osun (August 2026) off-cycle elections. We will not be distracted by unfounded allegations of collusion or bias. Our allegiance remains solely to the Constitution and the will of the Nigerian people.

“The Commission understands that some decisions can be challenging and may not always align with individual party interests. However, the Commission is dedicated to fostering an electoral environment where transparency and fairness prevail.

“The decisions taken by INEC are based on thorough evaluations and aligned with the legal framework that governs our operations including adherence to the Rule of Law. They are intended to ensure free, fair, and credible elections, which ultimately serve the interests of all stakeholders within our democracy, rather than specific political entities.”

admin by — April 3, 2026 in News 0