The Southern Ijaw Unity Forum (SIUF) and the Committee for Transparency and Good Governance (CTGG) have urged the federal government to decentralise pipeline surveillance contracts in the Niger Delta, warning against renewing awards to existing beneficiaries.
In an open letter to President Bola Tinubu, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, and NNPCL CEO Bashir Ojulari, SIUF accused the previous administration of sidelining key stakeholders, which they say fuelled unrest in the region. Despite billions spent under the former government, oil theft, pipeline vandalism, and illegal refining persist.
CTGG warned that granting or renewing contracts to individuals outside the Urhobo community, including Tantita Security Services Limited owned by former militant Tompolo, could lead to pipeline vandalism and disrupt oil production. They stressed that fairness and inclusion for all Niger Delta ethnicities are essential to maintaining peace.
Former Governor El-Rufai Petitions Police Over Misconduct
Nasir El-Rufai, former Kaduna State governor, has petitioned the Police Service Commission (PSC) and the Inspector-General of Police over alleged misconduct by senior officers of the Kaduna State Police Command.
The petition follows an invitation by the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for El-Rufai and six ADC members to answer allegations of criminal conspiracy and public disturbance. El-Rufai did not attend personally; instead, his legal team met police officials.
The former governor accused the police of complicity in an attack on an ADC meeting and called for an impartial investigation into the conduct of the Kaduna State Commissioner of Police. The APC in Kaduna denied involvement in the attack.
Dino Melaye Criticises Tinubu’s Borrowing Policies
Former senator Dino Melaye criticised President Bola Tinubu’s administration, accusing it of excessive borrowing that risks pushing Nigeria’s public debt beyond ₦200 trillion.
Melaye mocked the government’s handling of funds, highlighting a $1.7 billion World Bank loan and the purchase of a presidential yacht amidst widespread hunger. He warned that the administration might soon turn to fintech companies such as Opay for loans.
FCT Doctors Strike Forces Patients to Private Hospitals
Resident doctors in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) began a seven-day warning strike, paralysing medical services across six area councils. Patients resorted to private hospitals amid deserted wards and closed emergency units.
The doctors, under the Association of Resident Doctors (ARD-FCT), demand urgent reforms in staffing, equipment, unpaid allowances, and working conditions. The strike could escalate to an indefinite action if demands are unmet. Government officials continue discussions to resolve the impasse.
US Arrests Nigerian Convicted of Fraud
The United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) arrested Rotimi Oladimeji, a Nigerian previously convicted of mail and wire fraud, as part of a nationwide crackdown on illegal immigrants.
Oladimeji had defrauded a US victim of nearly $1.17 million and was sentenced to three years in prison in December 2023. He was also ordered to pay $1.1 million in restitution. ICE has now taken him into custody following completion of his sentence.
Police Investigate Corpse Found at National Assembly Car Park
The FCT Police Command has launched an investigation after a male corpse was discovered inside a car at the National Assembly complex. The body, found in advanced decomposition, was evacuated to Asokoro General Hospital. Efforts are ongoing to identify the deceased.
Senate Blocks Suspended Senator Natasha from Resuming
The Senate has barred Kogi Central Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan from resuming office despite completing her six-month suspension.
Her suspension, effective March 6, 2025, remains pending a Court of Appeal case against the Senate. Administrative action will only be taken once the court delivers its verdict.
South Korean Women Sue US Military Over Forced Prostitution
More than 100 South Korean women have filed a lawsuit against the US military, alleging they were forced into prostitution at brothels serving US troops stationed in South Korea between the 1950s and 1980s.
The plaintiffs seek apologies and compensation of $7,200 each. Activists condemned the abuse and highlighted the lasting physical and psychological impact. The South Korean government is also named as a defendant.
NCAA Summons 13 Airlines Over Flight Delays, Cancellations
The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has summoned 13 domestic airlines to an emergency meeting over rising flight delays, cancellations, and unruly passenger incidents.
The meeting will address passenger welfare, refund complaints, enforcement of safety protocols, and the introduction of RFID baggage tracking. NCAA warned that repeat offenders could face public sanctions.
Trump Launches Immigration Raids in Chicago
The Trump administration launched a new immigration enforcement operation in Chicago targeting undocumented immigrants with criminal records.
DHS claims the operation targets dangerous individuals, while critics including Governor JB Pritzker argue the move is politically motivated and not coordinated with local authorities. Thousands protested against the raids.
Oil Workers Strike Shuts Depots, Fuel Prices May Rise
The strike by the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) against Dangote Refinery continues, halting fuel distribution nationwide.
Depots remain closed, and filling stations face dwindling stocks. Industry experts warn of an imminent fuel price hike if the dispute is not resolved promptly. The strike stems from unresolved disputes over worker welfare, union rights, and operational conditions.
