Youths Stages Pro-INEC March In Abuja, Backs Commission’s Stance On ADC

stance on ADC. Members of the Concerned stance on ADCNigeria Youth Forum on Tuesday staged a march in Abuja, as show of support for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), amid controversy over the leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

The group, led by Adeyeye Olugbenga, its convener, said the demonstration was aimed at defending Nigeria’s democracy and the integrity of the electoral body.

Olugbenga said the protest followed “attacks from all manner of destructive elements” against INEC after the commission complied with a court injunction and removed the “illegal leadership of ADC in person of David Mark” from its portal.

Olugbenga also condemned a 48-hour ultimatum handed to the INEC chairman by individuals he described as “faceless”.

“We realised few days ago that they have mobilised their attack dogs,” he said.

Youths Stages Pro-INEC March In Abuja

He added that the group would continue to back the electoral commission, insisting that its actions are rooted in due process.

“We are here to make a bold statement that the solidarity for INEC and the leadership of INEC continues. We will continue to protect and support the institution of INEC because it is based on credibility,” he added.

Media Groups, CSOs Demand Wike To Apologise Over Threat To Shoot Seun Okinbaloye

Wike to apologise. A network of press freedom and civil society organisations has condemned recent remarks by Nyesom Wike, minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), directed at Channels Television presenter Seun Okinbaloye.

Wike, during a media chat in Abuja on Friday, threatened to shoot Okinbaloye over the journalist’s comments on the possibility of Nigeria becoming a one-party state.

Speaking on his programme, Okinbaloye had said it was disappointing that the 2027 elections were shaping up as a contest dominated by one political party, citing the crisis in the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

He said that Nigeria is “doomed democratically” if the only viable opposition — ADC — is unable to contest the 2027 elections.

Reacting to Okinbaloye, Wike had said: “I was surprised yesterday, thoroughly surprised. If there was any way to break the screen, I would have shot him.”

In a statement signed by 14 organisations, the network demanded that Wike retract his remarks, apologise to Okinbaloye and the media community, and “reaffirm a clear commitment to non-violence and the defence of press freedom as a public official on oath to abide with the constitution”.

They said that while the minister later clarified that he did not intend to physically harm the journalist, “even such hypothetical expressions of violent intent constitute a conditional threat and cannot be dismissed as harmless”.

“Even if meant humorously, such rhetoric can be perceived as intimidation by both the journalist and the audience,” the statement reads.

“We assert that conditional threats or violent statements against journalists contribute to a climate of fear, undermining the fundamental principles of a free and independent press, especially as journalists play a crucial role in informing the public and holding power to account.”

The CSOs and press freedom groups warned that threats or violent language, whether direct or indirect, put journalists at risk and weaken public trust in democracy.

“With a press freedom index ranking of 122 out of 180 countries, Nigeria remains one of West Africa’s most dangerous and challenging countries for journalists,” the statement said.

Wike To Apologise

“Media professionals are routinely monitored, attacked, and arbitrarily arrested, particularly during electoral campaigns. Incidents like this can further imperil journalists and highlight the urgent need for balanced and responsible political engagement, especially from public officials.”

The network also urged institutions and public figures to reject violent rhetoric against the media and promote a culture of respectful engagement, even amid strong disagreements.

Easter: FCT Minister Wike Tasks Residents On Community Service

FCT Minister Wike tasks residents on community service. He assured residents of security across the FCT.

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has urged residents of the FCT to rededicate themselves to the service of the nation and foster a spirit of harmony within their communities.

Mr Wike made the call in his Easter message to residents in Abuja on Friday, while congratulating Christians on the successful completion of the 40-day Lent, and extending warm greetings to all residents as they join the global Christian community in celebrating Easter.

“As we celebrate, let’s remember the values of love, compassion, and kindness that Easter represents.

“May we continue to work together towards building a community that reflects these values, where everyone can live in peace and prosperity,” he said.

The minister described Easter and the resurrection of Jesus Christ as a “profound symbol of new beginnings and renewed hope” for all Nigerians.

He said the Easter season offers an opportunity for the Christian faithful to reflect on the life and teachings of Jesus Christ.

The minister urged residents to rededicate themselves to the service of the nation and foster a spirit of harmony within their communities.

“This Easter season offers us an opportunity to reflect on the life and teachings of Jesus Christ and for new beginnings and renewed hope.

“I urge FCT residents, especially the Christian faithful, to use the occasion of the Easter celebrations to rededicate themselves to the virtues of love and service to our fatherland,” he said.

Mr Wike assured residents that the FCT Administration has deployed security teams across the FCT to ensure a hitch-free celebration.

“I want to assure you that the FCT Administration is committed to ensuring your safety and security. Adequate measures are in place to guarantee a peaceful and enjoyable Easter celebration,” he added.

Mr Wike also acknowledged the transformative impact of President Bola Tinubu’s administration on the FCT.

FCT Minister Wike

According to him, the ongoing infrastructural revolution across the city and satellite towns was a direct result of Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

“I want to express my appreciation to Tinubu, whose Renewed Hope Agenda has driven significant development in the FCT.

“His commitment to the progress of the FCT is evident in the numerous infrastructure projects transforming our territory, and I am proud to be part of this journey towards a more prosperous and harmonious FCT,” he said.