Niger State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Barr Nasir Mua’zu, has clarified that the recent withdrawal of non-lawyer police prosecutors from Magistrate and Shariah Courts is simply the enforcement of existing laws, specifically the Administration of Criminal Justice Law and the Police Act 2020.

The state Chief Judge, Justice Halima Abdulmalik, had last week issued a circular through the Chief Registrar of the Niger State High Court, Hajiya Amina Laminde Musa Saidu, directing the Police Legal Department to withdraw police prosecutors without law degrees from prosecuting cases, with immediate effect.

Mua’zu explained that this directive was not new, as the Chief Judge had earlier warned stakeholders six months ago to comply with the directive.

“What is being done is simply to give effect to the Administration of Criminal Justice Law and the Police Act 2020, which restrict prosecution to qualified lawyers,” he noted.

He added that the Ministry of Justice plans to fill the gap by deploying lawyers to magistrate courts, starting with major towns like Minna, Bida, Kontagora, and Suleja.

According to him, “These laws may seem harsh now, but in the end, they will improve the administration of criminal justice in Niger State. Before now, the police were prosecuting cases in more than 200 courts across the state, with some courts having up to two police prosecutors. Suddenly withdrawing all of them poses a major challenge for the ministry.”

However, the Chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Minna Branch, Isyaku Barau, Esq., expressed concerns that the directive barring non-lawyer police prosecutors from Magistrate and Shariah Courts may slow down criminal justice administration in Niger State.

He argued that many pending cases were being handled by these prosecutors and will now face delays due to the shortage of qualified lawyers in the Niger State Police Command and the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) office.

Barau appealed to the Chief Judge and the state government to address the issue, citing the interests of justice and the rights of defendants awaiting trial in the state.

Senator David Umahi, Minister of Works, has declared that the people of Southeast region have no political alternative than the All Progressives Congress, APC, as the nation approaches the 2027 election.

He urged youths and stakeholders across the zone to embark on massive registration into the ruling party to secure the region’s political future.

Umahi made the call at his country residence in Umunaga Uburu, Ohaozara Local Government Area, Ebonyi State, where he addressed APC supporters and stakeholders following the party’s primary election victory of his son, Osborne Nweze Umahi, as the chairmanship candidate for Ohaozara LGA.

The minister described the APC as the only platform capable of delivering sustainable development, political inclusion, and national representation for the Southeast, warning that the region cannot afford to remain politically isolated.

“Let everybody go and register in APC. There is no alternative,” Umahi said, urging a concerted membership drive across all Southeast states.

He also commended President Bola Tinubu for his administration’s efforts to address longstanding grievances in the region, particularly the agitation for secession, which he said was born out of years of neglect.

“The President has defied all the agitation from Biafra. We are not living on sentiments,” he stated, insisting that political advancement for the Southeast cannot be achieved through emotional rhetoric or intimidation.

Umahi emphasized that the region must focus on concrete achievements and participation in national politics rather than resorting to protest and agitation.

He said the current administration had begun correcting historical imbalances, adding that the Southeast would eventually produce a credible presidential candidate when the time is right.

“The time of God is the right time,” Umahi said, urging the Southeast to remain patient and united under the APC platform.

The minister also defended the federal government’s road infrastructure projects, describing them as transformational and essential to national development.

He dismissed criticisms and protests over road conditions, saying such actions should be directed towards constructive engagement rather than political blackmail.

Ambassador-designate, Reno Omokri, on Monday, said only those who are delusional would think that they can defintely at President Bola Tinubu in 2027.

Omokri said with 30 state governors behind Tinubu, it would be difficult to defeat him in 2027.

He was reacting to speculations surrounding the reported move of Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano State from the New Nigeria Peoples Party, NNPP, to the All Progressives Congress, APC.

Posting on X, Omokri wrote: “As Kano Makes 30: Anyone Thinking They Can Defeat President Tinubu In 2027 Is Delusional!

“If the opposition could not defeat then-candidate Asiwaju Bola Tinubu in 2023 with just 20 All Progressives Congress Governors behind him, what makes them think they can do so with 30 Governors now behind him?

“Ponder on that for a moment. Some Nigerians who are still living in la-la land do not really understand the political implications of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano taking down the flag of the New Nigeria Peoples Party.”

Troops operating under Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) have shut down key border corridors between Nasarawa and Benue states that were allegedly used by bandits to infiltrate rural communities, carry out attacks, and flee across state boundaries.

The development was made known by the Commanding Officer of the COAS Intervention Battalion XI, Lt. Col. Donatus Otobo, during an operational inspection of military units stationed in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State.

Otobo explained that the battalion was deployed to Guma on July 12, 2025, after sustained banditry had transformed the council into a major security hotspot.

According to him, troops encountered fierce resistance immediately upon arrival, including multiple ambushes, but have since made significant progress in degrading criminal networks and reclaiming large portions of the area.

“From the day we entered this area, it was one form of attack or another. On our first day alone, we encountered over ten attacks. But today, we have been able to push the bandits out of our area of responsibility,” Otobo said.

He noted that Guma borders Awe, Keana and Doma local government areas in Nasarawa State, describing the axis as a notorious transit route used by bandits who exploit the rugged terrain and sparsely populated border settlements to launch surprise assaults.

According to the officer, continuous offensive patrols, permanent ambush positions and effective collaboration with military units in Nasarawa State have greatly limited the mobility of the criminals operating along the border.

“Whenever there is pressure from the Nasarawa axis, they attempt to move into Guma. We have blocked those routes and pushed them back. As of today, we have achieved about 80 per cent security within our area of responsibility,” he said.

Otobo further disclosed that joint operations between troops in both states recently resulted in the arrest of a suspected criminal who crossed into Benue to attack local communities, adding that intelligence-driven operations remain central to maintaining security gains.

He also revealed that prior to the battalion’s deployment, residents were unable to access the Nasme axis or their farmlands due to frequent attacks.

With the improved security situation, however, normal economic activities have resumed, as farmers and traders now move freely along routes that were once deserted.

The commanding officer credited the progress recorded to sustained logistical and operational backing from the Chief of Army Staff, describing the unit as a rapid-response intervention force tasked with stabilising troubled areas before redeployment.

“Guma used to record an average of ten killings weekly. today, we sometimes go three months without a single attack. That is the result of sustained military pressure,” he said.

Anambra State Police Command has highlighted what it called the gains of joining the Nigeria Police Force.

The command in a press statement by its spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga called on eligible Anambra people to participate in the ongoing recruitment process.

The Command stated that joining the Police Force offers Ndi Anambra an opportunity to actively contribute to improved policing services, promote unity, and support nation-building efforts.

The statement said: “Key reasons and gains why eligible citizens from Anambra state particularly indigenes of Anambra State, should consider a career in the Nigeria Police Force, is because it is a vital platform for meaningful participation in national development.

“Policing is a noble profession anchored on service, discipline, and patriotism, providing structured career growth, professional training, and the chance to make a positive impact on the society by safeguarding lives and property.”

The Command noted that the increased participation of indigenes in the Force will strengthen community-oriented policing, enhance public trust, and improve security outcomes by fostering a better understanding of the local environment, culture, and people.

“Anambra State Police Command encourages indigenes to further see enlistment into the Police Force as a constructive way to be part of national discussions on security and governance.

“You must note that active involvement in national institutions is essential for inclusive development and lasting peace,” he added.

Civil Society Organisations have commended Governor Ahmed Ododo for significant improvements in security and infrastructure within his first two years.

KONGONET gave the commendation in a statement jointly signed by its Chairperson, Mr Hamza Aliyu, and Secretary, Reuben Joshua, in Lokoja on Monday.

“Ododo’s administration has made a significant impact in the areas of security, healthcare, education and infrastructure development in the state, ” it stated.

The organisation, in its assessment of the governor’s performance, highlighted both the gains and the gaps in the last two year

According to KONGONET, the administration has made strides in rehabilitating roads, strengthening healthcare delivery, and promoting agriculture.

It noted, “Ododo’s administration for prioritising security, collaborating with federal agencies and supporting local initiatives.”

The group noted with pain that pressing challenges in water supply, waste management, and citizen engagement threatened to undermine the administration’s achievements.

“The rural communities still struggle with poor road access, and healthcare facilities remain under-equipped.

“The water situation in Lokoja, the state capital, has reached alarming levels, with many residents relying on unsafe sources or expensive private vendors.

“Poor waste management has earned Lokoja the reputation of being the “dirtiest state capital” in Nigeria, posing serious environmental and public health risks.

“While relative stability has improved in some areas, security concerns persist, particularly in border communities, where attacksarebeingexperienced, ” it stated.

KONGONET urged Gov. Ododo to institutionalise quarterly town hall meetings to rebuild trust and ensure citizen voices inform governance, strengthen procurement transparency and publish annual procurement plans.

The group urged him to prioritise sustainable water solutions and urban sanitation, and a viable mass transit system, especially in Lokoja metropolis, to ease transportation.

The organisation further called for support for the Social Protection Policy Framework development, and the appointment of statutory boards for transparency purposes

“As the administration enters its final two years, decisive action on these issues will shape citizens’ perceptions and determine the legacy of Governor Ododo’s tenure,” the group said.

In the same vein, the Executive Director of Conscience for Human Rights and Conflicts Resolution, Idris Abdul, acknowledged the governor’s efforts in paying salaries, maintaining peace, and improving security in the state.

Abdul said there was still much work to be done, particularly in areas such as transportation, housing, water, tourism, human development, and healthcare.

“Two years is a significant milestone, but it’s not enough to determine the success of an administration.

“We urge Governor Ododo to do more to address the pressing issues facing Kogi,” Abdul said.

He also commended the governor’s security efforts, including the recent successes of security agencies in Kogi, but emphasised the need for sustainability and community involvement in addressing insecurity.

Abdul also urged the governor to initiate town hall meetings with citizens, reduce his cabinet size, and appoint professionals with relevant skills to drive development in the state.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that Ododo was elected in November 2923 and sworn in to office on Jan. 27, 2024.

Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has strongly denied allegations that he is supporting any individual or making commitments regarding party tickets ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The governor made the clarification on Sunday at a stakeholders’ meeting of the All Progressives Congress, APC, held in Akure, where party leaders and members gathered to deliberate on internal party matters.

Although Ondo State is not scheduled to hold a governorship election in 2027, political activities within the APC have intensified, particularly among members seeking elective positions in the state and national assemblies.

Aiyedatiwa cautioned party members against spreading unverified claims and misinformation, warning that such narratives could sow discord and weaken party cohesion.

He said the need for clarification had become necessary amid growing speculation as political consultations and preparations for party primaries begin to take shape.

According to the governor, he has neither endorsed any aspirant nor given assurances regarding candidacies for legislative seats.

“In the political space, falsehoods, insinuations and assumptions often circulate with the aim of creating divisions.

“I want to make it clear that I have not promised anyone a ticket. I have not assured anyone of a ticket for either the state or national assembly, nor have I indicated that anyone will be denied a return ticket,” Aiyedatiwa said.

He urged party members to remain focused on unity and collective progress, stressing that fairness and due process would guide all future party activities.

Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria, ALGON, in Osun State, Abiodun Idowu of the All Progressives Congress, APC, has explained why reinstated local government council executives have remained in office despite the statutory expiration of their tenure on October 22, 2025.

Idowu on Sunday said the continued stay of the officials was based on existing court processes, noting that the matter was before the Federal High Court in Osogbo for legal clarification.

He explained that the affected executives were elected during the local government elections conducted in October 2022 across the state.

According to him, their tenure was disrupted after a Federal High Court judgment led to their removal from office before the expiration of their term.

Following the court ruling, Governor Ademola Adeleke dissolved the councils through an Executive Order issued in November, citing the judgment as justification.

Idowu said the situation changed after the Court of Appeal delivered a ruling on February 10, 2025, which reinstated the elected executives, allowing them to resume duties at their respective councils.

He added that the appellate court’s judgment remained valid, stressing that it had not been appealed at the Supreme Court.

Explaining the current legal position, Idowu said the interruption of their tenure informed their return to court and maintained that the executives were not requesting additional time in office.

“Our tenure was interrupted for more than two years, and that is why we are seeking judicial determination.

“We are not asking for tenure elongation; what we want is tenure determination,” Idowu stated.

Providing clarification, he said, “The court is to decide whether our tenure ended in October 2025 or should run from February 10, 2025, when we resumed office.”

Idowu criticised the manner of their removal, saying, “The governor used an executive order to sack us instead of allowing us to exhaust all legal means to determine the matter.”

He also referenced past political events, noting, “When the governor was removed by the tribunal, he was allowed to exhaust all legal avenues up to the Supreme Court, but we were denied that opportunity.”

On the pending case, Idowu said, “The matter is still before the Federal High Court in Osogbo and is coming up on February 3, 2026, after which we will know the lawful end of our tenure.”