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2027: Female Power Bloc Rises in APC as Ogun Deputy Gov Leads New Governorship Momentum

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As Nigeria gradually inches toward the 2027 governorship elections, a subtle but significant political shift is unfolding within the All Progressives Congress (APC), with women increasingly emerging as strong contenders for top state offices.

According to insights from the She Can Lead Team, a growing number of female political figures with proven governance records are gaining traction across the country. In Ogun State, Deputy Governor Noimot Salako-Oyedele is rapidly becoming a focal point in conversations around the state’s 2027 governorship race.

Salako-Oyedele’s rising profile is anchored on her blend of technical expertise and administrative experience. A Fellow of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (FNSE), she has built a reputation for disciplined leadership, policy clarity, and a results-driven approach to governance. Her emergence from Ogun West has also reignited conversations around regional equity, a recurring factor in the state’s political calculations.

However, she is not alone in the spotlight. Other prominent female figures such as Modele Sarafa-Yusuf and Iyabo Obasanjo-Bello are also drawing attention as potential governorship aspirants.

Sarafa-Yusuf, a former broadcast journalist and ex-Special Adviser on Information to Governor Dapo Abiodun, brings media savvy and political experience to the mix, while Obasanjo-Bello leverages her administrative background and political lineage as the daughter of former President Olusegun Obasanjo.

The surge of female political actors is not limited to Ogun. Across the country, women in governance are steadily redefining leadership narratives. In Adamawa State, Deputy Governor Kaletapwa Farauta is noted for combining academic excellence with governance experience. Similarly, Chinyere Ekomaru in Imo State is gaining recognition for grassroots engagement, while Hadiza Balarabe in Kaduna State continues to make strides in public health and policy delivery.

Collectively, these leaders are shaping a broader national shift toward inclusive, competence-driven governance, challenging long-standing political norms.

Ogun State, known for its history of balanced and inclusive leadership across religious and regional lines, appears particularly receptive to this evolving dynamic. Analysts say Salako-Oyedele’s cross-cutting appeal and governance style resonate with a diverse electorate seeking pragmatic leadership.

What began as speculation is now evolving into a tangible political movement. With party alignments gradually taking shape, her candidacy is gaining momentum among stakeholders who see her as a viable successor in 2027.

As the political landscape continues to evolve, Ogun faces a defining question: whether to maintain traditional power structures or embrace a new era shaped by tested competence and inclusive leadership.

With multiple strong female contenders in the frame, the 2027 race may not just be about gender representation, but about who among them is best prepared to lead.



Oceangate Engineering Oil & Gas LTD to appeal Federal High ruling over forfeiture of assets

Oceangate Engineering Oil & Gas LTD to appeal Federal High ruling over forfeiture of assets

Oceangate Engineering Oil & Gas Limited has said it will appeal to the recent ruling of the Federal High Court ordering the forfeiture of certain assets.

Barr. Nnenna Onyeaso, the Company Secretary, said in a statement on Thursday, insisting that neither the company nor its leadership was found guilty of any wrongdoing.

Onyeaso said that the firm has described the court’s decision as a civil asset forfeiture order based on suspicion rather than proof, stressing that the judgment did not establish any criminal liability against the organisation.

According to her, the company maintain that it has already directed its legal team to file an appeal, expressing confidence in the judicial process and the outcome of a thorough review of the case.

“To be clear, this ruling is a civil asset forfeiture order with no finding of wrongdoing against Oceangate or its leadership.

“The court’s decision rested on a legal standard of suspicion, not proof, and it is one we intend to pursue fully through the appeals process,” she said in a statement.
The firm secretary also said that Oceangate has reiterated its belief in the rule of law, noting that the appellate system exists to address such outcomes.

She added that the company remained confident that the facts of the case will ultimately affirm its integrity and business practices.

Onyeaso said that the firm also emphasised that its operations remained unaffected, stating that it continues to provide employment for many Nigerians while contributing to the country’s energy sector and broader economy.

“We have always believed in the ability of the judicial process, and that belief has not wavered,” she added.

She noted that Oceangate further expressed appreciation to its employees, partners, and clients for their continued support amid the development, assuring stakeholders of its commitment to transparency and accountability.

The Secretary said that the company reaffirmed its confidence in Nigeria as a viable destination for investment, describing the country as a land of equity, growth, and opportunity.

“We remain committed to the continued growth of our business and the communities we serve as we are optimistic that justice will prevail at the end of the legal process.

Boluwatife Adeyanju Throws Weight Behind Yayi Legacy 2027, Backs Aina for Ogun West Senate

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Adeyanju Throws Weight Behind Yayi Legacy 2027, Backs Aina for Ogun West Senate

The momentum behind the Yayi Legacy 2027 Movement continues to build as Prince Boluwatife Adeyanju, politician and entrepreneur, has declared his full support for the agenda, describing it as the clearest path to sustaining progress in Ogun West.

The initiative, championed by Hon. (Chief) Akinpelu Nurudeen Aina (Legacy) Baamofin of Otta-Aworiland and a Two-Term former Lawmaker of Ogun State House of Assembly 2011-2019, is aimed at securing his emergence as Ogun West Senator while reinforcing the legacy of Senator Olamilekan Adeola (Yayi), who is widely projected as a leading Governorship contender in Ogun State.

Prince Adeyanju, a University of Brighton, UK graduate in Project Management for Construction,  assured that Akinpelu Aina is the man for the job, citing his track record, loyalty, and grassroots connection, he said Aina represents the kind of tested leadership Ogun West needs at this critical time.

He added that a Yayi Governorship paired with Legacy Senatorial leadership would be a “power combination” capable of fast-tracking development across the district.

“This is about continuity, capacity, and results,” Adeyanju stated. “We must build on what is already working.”

Backing his words with action, Adeyanju has pledged to take the message across all five local governments in Ogun West, mobilizing support and amplifying the projects and impact already delivered by both Yayi and Legacy.

He was also a key figure at the Ota Ward 1 declaration, where Aina formally signaled his 2027 Senatorial ambition, further underscoring his commitment to the movement.

With endorsements like this, political watchers say the YAYI-LEGACY 2027 campaign is quickly gathering the structure, energy, and grassroots backing needed to shape the future of Ogun West.

Tinubu Urges Traditional Rulers to Champion Peace, Unity Amid Rising Insecurity

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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday urged Nigeria’s traditional rulers to take a more active role in tackling insecurity and fostering national unity, insisting that monarchs must move beyond ceremonial duties to serve as stabilising forces in their communities.

The President made the appeal in Lagos during the launch of the autobiography of Oba (Dr) Samuel Oluyemisi Olu Falae, stressing that traditional institutions are pivotal in promoting peace, cohesion, and grassroots stability.

Represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, Tinubu said the nation’s current security challenges require monarchs to act as frontline agents of peacebuilding.

“Peace and security are not solely the responsibility of government; they are collective duties,” Tinubu declared, calling on royal fathers to encourage dialogue, discourage violence, and strengthen unity in their domains.

He added: “Our royal fathers are the closest link between government and the grassroots. Your palaces must remain centres of peacebuilding, conflict resolution, and moral guidance.”

The event, attended by political leaders, traditional rulers, and diplomats, was described by the President as more than ceremonial, highlighting leadership, service, and enduring national values.

Tinubu paid tribute to Oba Falae, lauding him as “a bridge between tradition and modern governance,” whose career blends technocratic excellence with cultural leadership. He noted Falae’s service as Minister of Finance and Secretary to the Government of the Federation, praising his fiscal discipline and policy clarity during critical moments of Nigeria’s economic history.

The President also recognized Falae’s leadership within the pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, where he has chaired the National Executive Committee since 2025.

Highlighting the continuing importance of traditional institutions, Tinubu assured that his administration would deepen collaboration with monarchs to enhance security, promote social harmony, and drive grassroots development.

He described Falae’s autobiography as both a personal chronicle and a reflection of Nigeria’s resilience, offering valuable lessons in perseverance, patriotism, and integrity for younger generations.

Tinubu congratulated Oba Falae on the publication, expressing confidence that his legacy will inspire future leaders.

Heritage Bank Depositors Protest Delays, Accuse CBN, NDIC of Double Standards

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Depositors of the defunct Heritage Bank Plc have raised alarm over the slow pace of liquidation payments, accusing the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC) of inconsistency in handling the bank’s collapse.

In a petition addressed to the CBN Governor and copied to the Presidency and the National Assembly, the aggrieved customers lamented that nearly two years after the bank’s liquidation, most depositors have received only 14.2 per cent of their uninsured funds.

They described the payment process as painfully slow, noting that an initial liquidation dividend of 9.2 per cent was paid in April 2024, followed by a second tranche of five per cent released recently.

The depositors said the situation has left many small business owners, retirees and civil servants in dire financial straits, as their savings remain largely inaccessible.

“At the current pace, it is doubtful that depositors will ever recover their full funds, especially considering the time value of money,” the petition stated, describing the process as “disturbing, discouraging and financially devastating.”

The group called on the apex bank to provide bailout support to the NDIC to fast-track payments, arguing that the insurance corporation lacks the financial capacity to complete the liquidation within a reasonable timeframe.

They further pointed to past interventions by the CBN in distressed banks—such as liquidity injections, mergers and outright takeovers—as evidence that the regulator has mechanisms to prevent prolonged depositor losses.

According to the petitioners, the decision to liquidate Heritage Bank without a clear reimbursement roadmap has weakened public confidence in the banking system.

They also recalled that prior to the bank’s closure, regulatory assurances had portrayed the institution as stable, encouraging customers to maintain their deposits.

“The abrupt liquidation without full reimbursement undermines the credibility of the banking sector,” the group said, warning that such actions could erode trust in financial institutions.

The depositors appealed to the Presidency and the National Assembly to intervene by ensuring full repayment, setting a clear timeline for reimbursements, and probing the circumstances surrounding the bank’s collapse.

They also demanded that individuals found culpable of mismanagement or asset diversion be brought to justice.

The group cautioned that continued delays could discourage savings and investment, weaken confidence in Nigerian banks and send negative signals to the global financial community.

“To safeguard the integrity of the financial system and restore public trust, decisive action must be taken immediately,” the petition concluded.

Soludo Cracks Down on Absenteeism, Orders Suspension of Late Civil Servants in Anambra

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Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Soludo, has ordered the suspension of civil servants who failed to report to duty by 10:00 a.m., following a surprise inspection of the state secretariat in Awka.

The governor issued the directive on Thursday after conducting an unscheduled tour across ministries and departments to assess workers’ punctuality, conduct and overall commitment.

Speaking to journalists after the visit, Soludo expressed displeasure at the level of absenteeism observed during the exercise.

“I walked in office by office and found a significant number of workers not yet at work as at past 10 a.m. This is unacceptable,” he said.

He directed that any staff not found at their duty posts by the stipulated time should be suspended without pay, stressing that indiscipline would no longer be tolerated in the state’s workforce.

Soludo described the situation as a mix of “the good, the bad and the ugly,” commending diligent workers while warning that those undermining productivity would be shown the exit.

According to him, Anambra cannot afford an inefficient civil service, adding that “bad eggs” in the system would be identified and removed.

The governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to building a disciplined, efficient and results-driven public service, noting that ongoing reforms would be strictly enforced.

He also highlighted the government’s investments in upgrading infrastructure and improving working conditions at the secretariat, urging workers to reciprocate with dedication and improved productivity.

The crackdown signals a tougher stance by the Soludo administration as it seeks to instill accountability and enhance service delivery across the state’s civil service.

UK Increases Visa, Residency Fees from April 8 — What Nigerians Will Now Pay

The UK government has raised visa, residency and citizenship fees effective April 8, 2026, impacting Nigerians seeking travel, study and work opportunities

UK Hikes Visa Fees: Nigerians to Pay More for Travel, Study, Work from April 8

The United Kingdom government has announced a sweeping increase in visa, residency, and citizenship application fees, a move set to impact Nigerians and other foreign nationals from April 8, 2026.

The revised fee structure, released by the UK Home Office and seen on Thursday, introduces higher costs across nearly all visa categories — including visit, student, work, settlement, and naturalisation applications.

The increases come into effect in less than two weeks and are expected to significantly affect Nigerians, who remain among the largest groups of applicants for UK visas each year.

Under the new rates:

  • Short-term visit visas rise from £127 to £135
  • Student visas increase from £524 to £558
  • Indefinite leave to remain climbs from £3,029 to £3,226
  • British citizenship (naturalisation) rises from £1,605 to £1,709

In a notable exception, the UK government reduced the cost of registering a child as a British citizen.

The fee drops from £1,214 to £1,000 — a £214 reduction — while most other charges either increase or remain unchanged.

Some visa categories, including the High Potential Individual route and Tier 1 (Investor), remain unchanged at £880 and £2,000 respectively.

Breakdown of Key Visa Changes

Visit Visas

  • Short-term (6 months): £127 → £135
  • 2-year visa: £475 → £506
  • 5-year visa: £848 → £903
  • 10-year visa: £1,059 → £1,128

Student Visas

  • Student (main & dependants): £524 → £558
  • Child student: £524 → £558
  • Short-term English study: £214 → £228

Work Visas

  • Skilled Worker (≤3 years): £769 → £819
  • Skilled Worker (>3 years): £1,519 → £1,618
  • Health & Care Visa (≤3 years): £304 → £324
  • Health & Care Visa (>3 years): £590 → £628
  • Start-up visa: £465 → £495
  • Innovator Founder: £1,274 → £1,357
  • Graduate Route: £880 → £937

Settlement & Residency

  • Route to settlement: £1,938 → £2,064
  • Indefinite leave to remain: £3,029 → £3,226

Citizenship

  • Naturalisation: £1,605 → £1,709
  • Adult registration: £1,446 → £1,540
  • Child registration: £1,214 → £1,000 (reduced)

With Nigeria ranking among the top sources of UK visa applicants, the fee hike is expected to increase the financial burden on thousands seeking education, employment, or relocation opportunities.

Despite the increases, demand for UK visas among Nigerians remains strong, driven by opportunities in education, healthcare, and skilled employment.

The latest adjustment underscores the UK government’s broader immigration policy direction — tightening costs while maintaining key migration routes.

For many Nigerians, the new fees could reshape travel and relocation plans, particularly for students and families navigating already high living and tuition costs in the UK.

As the April 8 deadline approaches, prospective applicants are likely to rush submissions under the current fee structure before the new charges take effect. Read More

Diri Applauds APC Consensus Model as South-South Leaders Unite for 2027

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Bayelsa Governor Douye Diri backs APC’s consensus model, praises South-South unity and signals strong support for Tinubu’s 2027 re-election bid

Diri Backs APC Consensus Model, South-South Leaders Unite for

Governor of Bayelsa State, Douye Diri, has endorsed the All Progressives Congress (APC)’s adoption of a consensus method for electing party officials, describing it as a strategic move to strengthen unity and position the party for victory in the 2027 general elections.

Diri made the remarks on Wednesday at the APC South-South Zonal Congress held in Asaba, according to a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Daniel Alabrah.

Reflecting on past political contests, the governor said the consensus model marks a significant shift from the rancorous delegate system that once dominated party primaries.

“I like to align myself with the previous speakers on the unity of the South-South zone. In this region politically, the South-South now speaks with one voice. This is important because of the strategic nature of the zone.”

He recalled that during the 2019 governorship elections, party primaries were often fraught with tension due to delegate-based voting.

“If you are not on the sharing table, in terms of decision-making process, you will be left behind. We need to be united that we will not allow petty divisions among us.”

Diri urged party members to close ranks and protect the APC’s growing influence in the region.

“Let us work together for the unity and protection of APC in the South-South and God willing, all our candidates will come out tops in the 2027 elections. There cannot be anything better than a united family.”

He also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for fostering internal party stability.

“Political events such as elective congresses like this were usually filled with rancour and violence. But, today, we have adopted the consensus model to produce our party executives from the wards to the regional level.”

President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, praised the outgoing National Vice Chairman, Victor Giadom, for his role in bringing governors in the region under the APC umbrella.

“The governors of the South-South zone coming together in the APC was made possible by Chief Giadom. I congratulate you and your team for what you have done.”

Akpabio expressed optimism that the region would play a decisive role in the 2027 elections.

“Now that we are complete and focused, we will be the geo-political zone in Nigeria that will turn out the highest votes in 2027 for President Tinubu.”

He also highlighted the region’s political gains under the current administration.

“In the last 46 years or so, our region had not produced a senate president. But under President Tinubu, the South-South region is recognised.”

The host governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, alongside governors from Rivers, Akwa Ibom, Edo, and Cross River states, echoed calls for unity and pledged support for Tinubu’s second-term bid.

All the governors reaffirmed their commitment to mobilising support for the APC and ensuring victory in upcoming elections.

At the congress, Victor Giadom was returned as the APC South-South Zonal Chairman alongside seven other executives, reinforcing continuity in the party’s regional leadership.

The motion for the dissolution of the outgoing zonal executive was moved by Emomotimi Guwor and seconded by Abraham Ingobere.

In his remarks, Giadom described the gathering of governors, lawmakers, ministers, and stakeholders as a strong signal of unity and determination.

the meeting was “an indication of the zone’s commitment to return all APC candidates in next year’s poll.”

With growing alignment across the South-South, the APC appears to be consolidating its political base ahead of 2027, banking on unity and consensus to avoid internal divisions and strengthen its electoral chances. Read More

‘No Ambush’: Morayo Afolabi-Brown Defends Ireti Doyle Interview, Calls Nigerians ‘Battle-Ready’

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Media personality Morayo Afolabi-Brown has responded to criticism trailing her recent interview with actress Ireti Doyle, insisting that the session was transparent and not designed to embarrass her guest.

Addressing the backlash, Afolabi-Brown clarified that Doyle was provided with the interview questions in advance, dismissing claims that she attempted to ambush the actress during the programme.

She stressed that her show is intentionally structured to highlight positivity and celebrate guests, rather than focus on controversy or confrontation.

“Nigerians! You people are always battle-ready. My guest got her questions a day before her interview. I wasn’t trying to spring a fast one on her,” she said.

The TV host noted that many Nigerians are conditioned to expect negativity from media platforms, attributing the mindset to years of exposure to harsh leadership and societal challenges.

According to her, most television content in the country tends to centre on criticism, debates, and conflict, leaving little room for uplifting and joyful programming.

Afolabi-Brown explained that her motivation for creating the show was to provide a refreshing alternative that promotes happiness, laughter, and optimism among viewers.

“We are so used to being bashed on TV that we believe every presenter is trying to set a trap. It’s all joy here,” she added.

She urged Nigerians to be less skeptical and more open to positive content, acknowledging the pressures of daily life while encouraging a shift toward embracing moments of joy.

#GlobalOilPrice Debate: Nigerians Hail Dangote Refinery for Easing Petrol Supply Pressure

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A growing number of Nigerians acknowledge the stabilising role of local refining in cushioning the country from deeper supply shocks

#GlobalOilPrice Debate: Nigerians Applaud Dangote Refinery’s Role in Easing Local PMS Supply Pressure

The conversation around petrol pricing in Nigeria continues to generate mixed reactions across social media, with citizens debating the implications of global oil market realities on domestic fuel costs.

While concerns remain about rising pump prices, a growing number of commentators acknowledge the stabilizing role of local refining in cushioning the country from deeper supply shocks.

Many energy observers note that Nigeria’s fuel pricing environment is increasingly shaped by international crude oil benchmarks, geopolitical tensions, and global supply constraints.

In recent weeks, discussions have intensified following adjustments in pump prices, prompting public reflection on the benefits of domestic refining capacity versus the risks of complete import dependence.

One social media commentator, O.L.Oì.Y.EÌ (@stilldey4u), captured the tone of the debate in a widely circulated post, noting that although prices are rising, supply appears more stable, queues have reduced, and Nigeria may still be better positioned than during periods of heavy reliance on imported petroleum products.

The post referenced commentary by Ayodele Adio, noting that while Nigerians are paying more for petrol, the country may be avoiding a worse outcome that could have resulted from global shortages and supply disruptions.

Across platforms, several users expressed the view that the Dangote Refinery has strengthened Nigeria’s energy resilience and reduced vulnerability to external shocks, although a minority continue to question pricing outcomes.

According to ndukwemeruwa (@ndukwemeruwa), “Thank God for Dangote refinery,” suggesting appreciation for the refinery’s role in maintaining supply stability.

Free Business (@Frezelee) noted that recent global tensions have shown why energy independence is critical, adding that Africa benefits from having refining capacity on the continent.

African_Brother (@Busaka_Mwoke) described the refinery as a strategic continental asset, stating that Africa now has the capacity to meet more of its own petroleum needs.

Manjul Vic (@VictorManjul) observed that without the refinery’s operations, Nigeria could still be heavily exposed to imported fuel prices at even higher levels.

Gift Essien (@OfficialKhartel) stated that the presence of the refinery has helped prevent Nigerians from paying significantly higher pump prices than currently experienced.

JustCruise (@Akpregal) attributed improved fuel availability to what he described as the “Dangote effect,” linking local refining to reduced dependence on imports.

X Griot (@Tamzi006) described the development of refining capacity as a move toward energy sovereignty, emphasizing the importance of domestic processing of crude oil.

Princeish (@princewisdom93) suggested that many critics underestimate the complexity of global pricing structures, adding that crude oil prices influence local fuel costs regardless of refining location.

Abubakar M Kareto (@amkar_) noted that refined petroleum prices remain influenced by global crude benchmarks, adding that market realities must be considered in evaluating pump prices.

Olayinka (@ThePlantain) pointed out that crude oil prices have increased globally, stating that refiners sourcing crude at international rates are affected by the same market conditions.

ZEFGO GADGETS (@Zeeg__) stated that global market price increases inevitably affect domestic petroleum pricing outcomes.

Akin Damilare (@4kinSquare) acknowledged that market forces are increasingly determining pump prices within a deregulated environment.

Chydmma (@delish_farms) noted that market realities continue to shape pricing outcomes across the value chain.

BOSA (@ObasaSanmi) explained that crude oil operates within an international pricing framework, meaning domestic refining does not fully insulate consumers from global volatility.

Kzy (@adekzy) observed that the refinery is likely to play a stronger role in stabilizing supply during periods of global uncertainty.

Korobochka (@cirnosad) referenced global supply disruptions, noting that geopolitical developments often influence crude availability and pricing.

Big_Wale (@Olawale_ynwa) suggested that recent developments highlight the importance of strengthening domestic refining capacity.

Ayo Fakurade (@deygee) expressed optimism that continued investment in refining will strengthen Nigeria’s long-term energy outlook.

However, some social media users expressed concern about rising pump prices and their impact on household costs.

According to Nafisah Sambo (@One_Sexy_Missus), questions remain about whether the refinery should translate more quickly into lower fuel prices for consumers.

Analyst (@Analysts_) expressed frustration over recent price increases, reflecting broader public sensitivity to cost of living pressures.

Zikky1 (@Zicky001) questioned market competition dynamics, highlighting the need for continued public education on how global pricing systems operate.

Industry analysts say the ongoing discourse reflects a broader transition within Nigeria’s petroleum sector, as the country adjusts to a deregulated market environment influenced by global crude pricing dynamics.

They note that while price sensitivity remains high among consumers, the expansion of domestic refining capacity is widely considered a critical factor in strengthening long-term energy stability and reducing exposure to supply disruptions.

Observers maintain that sustained public communication on how global oil pricing works, as well as the role of local refining in stabilizing supply, will remain important in shaping public understanding as market conditions evolve. Read More