A former senatorial candidate in Borno State has been sentenced to 10 years imprisonment by the Federal High Court in Abuja for selling petroleum products to members of the Boko Haram sect.

The convict, Babagana Habeeb, was found guilty on a lone-count charge of aiding and abetting terrorism brought against him by the Federal Government.

Habeeb, who contested for a Senate seat in 2015, was said to be a fuel dealer in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, where he allegedly supplied petroleum products that were later used by terrorists operating in the North-East.

According to court proceedings, he admitted to the offence upon arraignment but claimed that his fuel attendants may have carried out the sales without his direct knowledge.

During sentencing, the defendant reportedly pleaded for leniency, kneeling in the dock for nearly an hour and appealing to the court, saying he had been in detention for over 10 years without contact with his two wives and six children.

Counsel to the Federal Government, Mr. David Kaswe, opposed the plea for mercy, arguing that the supply of logistics such as fuel had significantly aided terrorist operations, resulting in deaths and displacement of civilians.

He urged the court to impose a 20-year sentence.

Delivering judgment, Justice Peter Odo Lifu held that while there was no evidence linking the convict directly to Boko Haram membership or training, the prosecution proved that he facilitated the supply of fuel to the group.

The court also noted that the defendant’s claim of spending over a decade in detention was not disputed by the prosecution.

Justice Lifu subsequently sentenced Habeeb to 10 years imprisonment, ordering that the term should run from the date of his arrest.

The judge further directed that the convict be released immediately upon the signing of his release warrant to enable him undergo rehabilitation and reintegration programmes.

The Federal High Court in Abuja has scheduled April 14, 2026, for the hearing of a suit challenging the leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), currently associated with former Senate President, David Mark.

The suit was filed by Nafiu Bala Gombe, who is seeking an order restraining Mark and other party leaders from presenting themselves as executives of the party.

Justice Emeka Nwite fixed the date on Friday after hearing that all parties in the case had been duly notified.

The case, marked FHC/ABJ/CS/1819/2025, lists the ADC, Mark, former Interior Minister Rauf Aregbesola, the Independent National Electoral Commission, and former ADC Chairman Ralph Nwosu as defendants.

The matter had earlier been adjourned indefinitely pending the outcome of an appeal, but the Court of Appeal, in a judgment delivered on March 12, directed all parties to return to the trial court and maintain the status quo pending determination of the substantive suit.

Following that ruling, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) reportedly removed the names of Mark and Aregbesola from its official portal as national officers of the party.

In response, the Mark-led faction filed a motion on April 7, urging the court to compel INEC to restore their names and also sought accelerated hearing of the case.

However, Mark and Aregbesola have both filed preliminary objections asking the court to dismiss the suit.

Mark argued that the plaintiff lacked the legal standing to institute the case and maintained that internal party disputes are non-justiciable matters.

Aregbesola also described the suit as baseless and urged the court to strike it out, requesting N50 million in damages for what he termed a frivolous action.

Ralph Nwosu also challenged the suit, stating that internal dispute resolution mechanisms of the party were not exhausted before the matter was brought before the court.

By Justice Chidi PhD

The government of Enugu State is setting a precedent that is unsettling the old narrative of one thing-at-a- time.

When Governor Mbah said that he was in a hurry to develop Enugu during the presentation of his manifesto at the Peter Mbah auditorium at Godfrey Okoye University Enugu, many thought it was the usual political rhetoric synonymous with politicians.

Time and events have actually proven that Mbah meant his words and wasn’t embarking on mere play on words.

At the heart of this transformation lies Mbah’s refusal to be bound by the incrementalism that has long characterized public sector project delivery.

Rather than subscribing to a linear strategy where one project must end, and reluctantly so,before another begins, the Mbah approach embraces simultaneity.

Roads rise while schools are taking shape; digital infrastructure expands even as healthcare systems are recalibrated.

Simply put, Enugu has become a construction site of ideas translated to concrete realities. Each initiative reinforcing the other in a carefully orchestrated pattern of progress.

We must point out that driving multiple projects at once demands not only resources but also coordination, discipline, and an unwavering clarity of purpose.

It requires a leader willing to stake political capital on the belief that citizens can see beyond temporary disruptions to grasp long-term gains.

In the above sense, Governor Mbah is the man. Ndi Enugu should be broad-minded enough to see the future gains.

For the simpleton, as you would hear a number of them muse while relieving a bottle of beer of its content, the governor should have just renovated the existing school blocks and discarded the idea of smart green schools.

For such thinkers, Enugu is not an institution of higher learning and there was no need for international conference centre; for them, the governor should have left transportation in the hand of private individuals because Enugu citizens have adapted to traumatising journeys.

Some even argue that such velocity risks overextension, that too many moving parts could strain institutional capacity.

Yet, such concerns often underestimate the power of urgency and the audacity of vision. When systems are compelled to operate at higher efficiency, dormant potentials are activated.

Civil servants adapt, contractors innovate, and timelines shrink.

Again, another deeper motivation is the governor’s recognition of the interconnectedness of development. A road is not merely a strip of asphalt; it is an artery for commerce, a bridge between rural productivity and urban markets.

A smart school is not just a building; it is a recalibration of the future workforce. By pursuing multiple projects concurrently, governance becomes holistic rather than fragmented.

Ultimately, Governor Mbah’s vision of multitasking is not merely about speed. He has effectively collapsed the distance between promise and proof. In all honesty, our dear governor should take his flowers.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced the postponement of its proposed nationwide voter revalidation exercise until after the 2027 general elections.

The decision was reached on Friday, April 10, 2026, following a meeting between the Commission and Resident Electoral Commissioners (RECs), where key electoral matters were reviewed.

In a statement signed by Mohammed Kudu Haruna, National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, INEC said the postponement was part of its strategic considerations ahead of the next general election cycle.

The Commission explained that the voter revalidation exercise remains a vital component of its constitutional mandate to maintain a credible and up-to-date National Register of Voters.

According to INEC, the exercise is designed to verify and update existing voter records, ensure the accuracy of personal data, eliminate duplicate and ineligible entries, and strengthen the integrity of the voter register.

INEC further noted that the process would also give registered voters the opportunity to confirm their details and make necessary corrections where required.

Despite the postponement, the Commission reaffirmed its commitment to delivering free, fair, credible, and inclusive elections across the country.

People often say that the only constant thing in life is change, and this is clearly seen in the leadership of Barr Peter Ndubuisi Mbah.

There was a time in Enugu State when politics was largely associated with thuggery and disorder. Many people accepted it as normal. But then, one man stepped in and decided that things could be different. That man is Barrister Peter Ndubuisi Mbah.

What makes Governor Mbah stand out is his belief that things must work better when the right people are given the right responsibilities.

He understands that when skilled and qualified professionals are put in positions of authority, the results are usually more efficient and meaningful.

Instead of relying on guesswork or favoritism, his approach focuses on competence and accountability.

This mindset is already showing results across the state. From the introduction of smart schools to boost education, to efforts in industrial growth, digital innovation, and improved road infrastructure, there is a visible shift in how things are being done.

These are not just policies on paper but they are changes people can actually see and feel in their daily lives.

When Governor Mbah took office, he had a choice: to continue with the old ways or to do things differently. He chose to make a change. Rather than ignoring the problems, he faced them directly.

One major issue he identified was the loss of government revenue through cash-based transactions. To fix this, he introduced a digital system that made payments more transparent and easier to track.

The keke that used to generate only three million naira monthly can now generate over eight hundred million on monthly basis. What a shift in revenue growth.

This decision made a big difference. By reducing leakages and ensuring accountability, the state began to generate more revenue. Today, Enugu is recognized as one of the fastest-growing states in terms of internally generated revenue. This shows what can happen when practical solutions are applied to real problems. Enugu can now have more resources to invest in airline businesses which also has the capacity to create additional jobs for the growing population. This has ensured the road infrastructure is being taken care of. Things don’t just change, this is a result of creative leadership.

Another important aspect of Governor Mbah’s leadership is his focus on the future. He is not just interested in quick results; he wants changes that will last.

This is why his administration supports partnerships between the government and private sector. With his background in the private sector, he understands that many government projects fail because they are not properly managed.

By involving experienced partners and setting clear systems, he is working to ensure that projects are completed and continue to benefit the people over time.

What truly makes him a change maker is his determination. He does not just talk about change but he works for it. Even when there is resistance, he stays focused and keeps pushing forward.

His leadership is driven by purpose, and his actions show a clear commitment to improving the lives of the people.

In the end, Peter Mbah represents what true leadership should look like. His work in Enugu State is a reminder that positive change is possible when leaders are willing to take responsibility and act with vision and integrity. His story shows that one person, with the right mindset and determination, can truly make a difference.

The Nigerian Bar Association has raised alarm over what it described as growing interference by legal practitioners, the judiciary, and electoral authorities in the internal affairs of political parties, warning that such actions could weaken Nigeria’s democracy ahead of the 2027 elections.

In a statement issued by its President, Maxi Afam Osigwe, the association expressed concern over recent developments surrounding the interpretation and application of the Electoral Act 2026.

Osigwe warned that the NBA would not hesitate to discipline lawyers found to be exploiting the legal process to influence intra-party disputes.

He stressed that practitioners who deliberately file suits to secure judicial interference or obtain ex-parte and interlocutory orders in violation of statutory provisions risk facing sanctions.

According to him, such cases would be referred to the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee to serve as a deterrent and uphold the integrity of the legal profession.

He emphasized that lawyers must remain officers of the court and not engage in procedural manipulation capable of undermining democratic institutions.

The NBA also called on the judiciary to exercise restraint, urging judges to avoid being drawn into politically motivated disputes and to strictly operate within the limits of the law.

Osigwe further appealed to the National Judicial Council to establish stricter measures to sanction judicial officers who assume jurisdiction in matters expressly barred by law or grant orders that contravene statutory provisions.

He maintained that the association would not hesitate to report any erring judicial officer to the NJC for appropriate action, in line with the judicial oath.

On the role of the Independent National Electoral Commission, the NBA urged the electoral body to maintain neutrality and independence in the discharge of its responsibilities.

Osigwe cautioned that the commission must avoid any action that could be perceived as political interference or an attempt to influence party structures, noting that such perceptions could erode public confidence in the electoral system.

The NBA particularly faulted what it described as the increasing involvement of lawyers and courts in intra-party conflicts, despite clear provisions in Section 83 of the Electoral Act 2026 prohibiting judicial intervention in such matters.

Quoting the law, Osigwe reiterated that courts lack jurisdiction over disputes relating to the internal affairs of political parties and are also barred from granting interim or interlocutory injunctions in such cases.

He warned that continued disregard for these provisions by both lawyers and judges amounts to a direct violation of the law and poses a serious threat to Nigeria’s democratic stability.

Osigwe concluded by stressing that the nation’s legal and electoral systems must be protected from what he described as disingenuous litigation and judicial overreach, insisting that safeguarding democratic integrity remains a collective responsibility.

The Enugu State Independent Electoral Commission has released a revised timetable and schedule of activities for the 2026 local government elections, citing recent changes in Nigeria’s electoral legal framework.

In the updated timetable obtained by DAILY GAZETTE and endorsed by the commission’s Chairman, Prof. Chris Ngwu, ENSIEC explained that the adjustment followed the repeal of the Electoral Act 2022 and the enactment of the Electoral Act 2026.

The commission noted that the new schedule is designed to align the electoral process with the provisions of the updated law and other relevant statutes governing elections in the state.

ENSIEC recalled that it had earlier issued a notice of election on August 20, 2025, along with an initial timetable.

However, the revised framework now provides a fresh sequence of activities leading to the polls.

According to the commission, political parties are expected to conduct their primaries between January 23 and May 26, 2026, in line with the Electoral Act 2026.

Campaigns are scheduled to commence on April 29, 2026, and will end on September 25, 2026, a day before the election.

The submission of nomination forms by political parties will close on May 29, 2026, while the publication of candidates’ personal particulars is slated for June 19, 2026.

The final list of nominated candidates will be released on July 27, 2026.

Other key activities include the submission of polling agents by August 31, 2026, and the publication of the official notice of poll on September 11, 2026.

The commission confirmed that the local government elections will take place on September 26, 2026, with voting expected to run from 8am to 3pm using the open secret ballot system.

In the event of inconclusive outcomes, rerun elections will be conducted on October 10, 2026.

ENSIEC reaffirmed that the revised timetable was issued in line with its constitutional responsibilities and in compliance with the Electoral Act 2026 and other applicable laws.

Leaders of the All Progressives Congress in Owan West Local Government Area of Edo State have distanced themselves from moves to endorse the Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Blessing Agbebaku, for a third term ahead of the 2027 elections.

The party stakeholders described as undemocratic the call by former Deputy Governor, Rev. Peter Obadan, for Agbebaku to emerge as the sole candidate of the APC in the constituency.

Obadan had urged political actors across Owan to rally behind the Speaker, citing his performance, relationship with constituents, and what he termed an inclusive leadership style.

He also credited Agbebaku with maintaining stability in the Assembly and sustaining a cordial relationship with the executive arm of government.

However, APC leaders in Owan West rejected the endorsement, insisting that it does not reflect the position of the party at the grassroots.

They argued that the constituency has not witnessed satisfactory representation under the Speaker.

In a statement signed by key party officials, including Osumah Raymond, Ayeni Iyabo, and Frank David, the leaders urged party members and stakeholders to disregard Obadan’s appeal, describing it as lacking legitimacy.

They further alleged that Agbebaku’s role during the last governorship election contributed to internal divisions within the party, claiming that some members were subjected to intimidation and harassment.

The leaders also questioned his alignment with the party structure at the ward and local government levels, insisting he is yet to be fully recognised within the APC leadership framework in Owan West.

Reaffirming their stance, they maintained that any attempt to impose a sole candidate would undermine internal democracy within the party.
Reacting to the development, Agbebaku insisted he remains a loyal and bona fide member of the APC.

The Speaker had defected to the APC in May 2025 alongside two other lawmakers from the Peoples Democratic Party.