Flowerbud News

Year: 2026

  • Defection: PDP remain strong in Sokoto  – Sen. Gada

    Defection: PDP remain strong in Sokoto  – Sen. Gada

    Defection: PDP remain strong in Sokoto  – Sen. Gada
    A Chieftain of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP Sen. Abubakar Gada, has called on party supporters of the Sokoto state to remain calm, united, and steadfast in their commitment to the ideals and vision of the party.
    Gada, former senator who represented Sokoto East Senatorial District between 2007 and 2011 under the PDP made the call in a statement made available to Newsmen on Friday Sokoto.
    ” I assured party faithfuls that the development will not weaken the structure, unity, or electoral prospects of the PDP in Sokoto State.
    ” The PDP remains the most organized and people-oriented political party in the country, with strong grassroots structures across all 36 states of the federation, including the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.
    ” Our strength lies in the collective commitment of our members, leaders, and supporters who have continued to stand by the party through different political seasons,” Gada said.
    He explained that politics is dynamic, and individuals are free to make personal political choices.
    ” Nevertheless, the PDP as an institution remains strong, resilient, and firmly rooted in the aspirations of the people of Sokoto State and Nigeria at large.
    ” I am pleased to inform our members that the national leadership of the party has already set in motion mechanisms aimed at strengthening internal unity and consolidating the party’s structures across the country, ” he added.
    According to him, consultations and reconciliation efforts are ongoing among party stakeholders to ensure that any concerns are addressed and that the party continues to move forward with renewed focus and unity
    He added that PDP has overcome numerous political challenges in the past and has always emerged stronger.
    ” This moment will not be different. With the continued support, loyalty, and dedication of our members, the party will overcome its current challenges and reposition itself for greater success
    ” I  therefore urged all party members to remain focused, avoid actions that could create unnecessary division, and continue mobilizing support for the PDP at all levels.
    ” Together, we will strengthen our party, deepen our unity, and continue to work towards the progress and development of Sokoto State,” Gada said.
  • Ubandoma, PDP governorship candidate defect to ADC 

    Ubandoma, PDP governorship candidate defect to ADC 

    Ubandoma, PDP governorship candidate defect to ADC

    The 2023 governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party in Sokoto State, Saidu Umar, popularly known as Ubandoma Sokoto, has resigned from the party, citing unresolved leadership disputes at the national level.

    Umar disclosed this in a resignation letter addressed to the PDP chairman of Sarkin Adar Kofar Atiku Ward in Sokoto South Local Government Area.

    “I write to formally notify you of my resignation from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) effective immediately,” Umar stated in the letter.

    His resignation comes days after former Sokoto State governor, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, also dumped the PDP, a development that has intensified political realignments in the state.

    Explaining his decision, Umar said persistent internal conflicts and legal disputes over the party’s leadership structure had weakened cohesion within the PDP.

    “The lingering legal challenges and the existence of parallel leadership within the party at national level have unfortunately remained unresolved and continue to hinder unity, stability and effective political engagement within the party structure,” he said.

    Despite leaving the party, the former governorship candidate expressed appreciation to the PDP for giving him the opportunity to contest the 2023 election on its platform.

    “I remain sincerely grateful to the party for the confidence reposed in me through the opportunity to contest as its governorship candidate in the 2023 general elections in Sokoto State,” he said.

    Umar also acknowledged the support he received from party leaders, members and supporters during the electioneering period.

    He, however, reaffirmed his commitment to democratic values and the development of the state.

    “While I step aside from the formal membership of the party, I remain committed to the pursuit of good governance, democratic values and the continued development of our dear state and nation,” he added.

    Copies of the resignation letter were also sent to the PDP chairman in Sokoto South Local Government Area and the state chairman of the party.

    Umar was the PDP governorship candidate in the 2023 election in Sokoto State, where he contested against the candidate of the All Progressives Congress and others. His resignation adds to the growing list of defections linked to the party’s ongoing leadership crisis at the national level.

  • PDP crisis calculated attempt to weaken opposition for 2027 – Tambuwal

    PDP crisis calculated attempt to weaken opposition for 2027 – Tambuwal

    PDP crisis calculated attempt to weaken opposition for 2027 – Tambuwal

    Sen. Aminu Tambuwal had announced decamping to ADC siting lingering crises and the reason he left the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

    He described the crisis as a calculated attempt to weaken opposition participation ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

    Tambuwal made the allegation iin Sokoto while addressing journalists on his recent defection from the PDP to the Africa Democratic Congress (ADC).

    The former Sokoto State governor said his decision to leave the PDP followed extensive consultations and a long period of review of Nigeria’s political environment.

    According to him, the process that led to his defection began over two years ago.

    “When we projected into the future, we saw clear signs that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) administration might want to turn Nigeria into a one-party state,” he said.

    Tambuwal explained that a panel comprising political experts, practising politicians and professors from reputable universities was commissioned to study Nigeria’s evolving political situation.

    He said the panel included members from the PDP, Labour Party and the APC.

    “From the analysis, it appeared that the PDP and the Labour Party, which are the major opposition parties, might not survive in their current form.

    “The clear understanding from the study was that both parties may not be in a position to field strong presidential candidates in the 2027 general election,” he said.

    Tambuwal alleged that efforts were being made to weaken the PDP and the Labour Party to the level of smaller parties, which he said, often negotiated with the government at the centre during elections.

    “That was the intention, and one of the conditions was that Peter Obi must not remain in the Labour Party to contest,” he alleged.

    According to him, the development informed the decision by like-minded politicians to align with the ADC in order to build a stronger opposition platform.

    “We are not new in this political game. We saw the signs early and decided to act in order to stop the calculated attempt,” he said.

    Tambuwal added that the ADC movement was not about personal ambition but about building a people-focused political platform.

    “ADC is about the people and about Nigeria. Today, the country is divided between those in government and those outside it.

    “Many Nigerians are unhappy with the current situation, including insecurity, poverty, corruption and abuse of public trust,” he said.

    He emphasised that elections in Nigeria are ultimately decided by the people, noting that sitting presidents and governors had lost elections in the past when voters were not convinced by their leadership.

    Tambuwal stressed that his defection was not about personal political interest but about the future of his constituents and Nigeria as a whole.

  • PSC Approves Promotion Of 13 CPs, 17 DCPs In Merit-Based Exercise – Official

    PSC Approves Promotion Of 13 CPs, 17 DCPs In Merit-Based Exercise – Official

    (CP OLOHUNDARE JIMOH, CP LAGOS)

     

    By Dianabasi Effiong

    The Police Service Commission (PSC) has approved the promotion of 13 Commissioners of Police (CPs) to the rank of Assistant Inspectors-General of Police (AIGs), following their successful performance in the recently concluded written examinations and oral interviews.

    According to Torty Kalu, Head, Protocol and Public Affairs,
    PSC, the list of successful officers has been formally conveyed to the Inspector-General of Police for immediate implementation.

    (CP MILLER DANTAWAYE CP FCT)

     

    He stated that the newly-promoted AIGs were: Emmanuel Ado Christopher (former CP, Yobe State);
    Joseph Eribo (former CP, Ekiti State); Dantawaye Miller (former CP, FCT); and
    Uche Ifeanyi Henry, PhD (Director, NPF-National Cyber Crime Centre).

    Others are: Olarenwaju Peter Ogunlowo (former CP, Ogun State);
    Muhammad Dahiru (former CP, Jigawa State); Dankombo Morris (former CP, Adamawa State);
    Bello Shehu (former CP, Katsina State); and Ibrahim B. Maikaba (former CP, Zamfara).

    Kalu also stated on Thursday that Ahmed Musa (former CP, Sokoto State); Olohundare Moshood Jimoh (former CP, Lagos State); Simeon Udofia Akpanudom, FDC, (former CP, Anti-Fraud FCID Annex Lagos); and Haruna Olufemi (former CP, Oyo State); were also elevated to the AIG rank.

     

    In the same exercise, 17 Deputy Commissioners of Police (DCPs) were promoted to the rank of Commissioners of Police (CPs).

    They include:
    – Abdulrahim Audu Shaibu (Commander NIWA, Lokoja)
    – Abbas Sule (DC DFA INTERPOL)
    – Ojugbele E. Adebola (DC OPS Zone 2 Lagos)
    – Preye Raymond Egbetokun (DC DFA Akwa-Ibom Command)
    – Kayode Uthman Magaji (Community Policing, R&P, FHQ, Abuja)
    – Adebisi Bola Lateef (DC DFA Osun Command)
    – Markus Ishaku Basiran (DC DFA Zone 6 Calabar)
    – Silas Bamidele Aremu (DD Admin DoLS)
    – Sylvester Onyie Uzoefuna (DC DOPS Cross River Command)
    – Magaji Ismaila (DC Projects PAB FHQ Abuja)
    – Theodore Chukwuemeka Obasi (DC Maritime Lagos)
    – Sarah Idowu Ehindero (DC DFA Ogun State Command)
    – Hayatu Shaffa Hassan (DC SID Abia State Command)
    – Mohammed Babakura (DC Inspectorate DTD)
    – Danjuma I. Yahaya (DC DOPS Zone 12 Bauchi)
    – Rebecca Uchenna Okereke (Band Master)

    Additionally, 19 Assistant Commissioners of Police (ACPs) were elevated to Deputy Commissioners of Police (DCPs), including notable officers such as Rilwan Shaibu (PTS Nekede IMS), Grace Obiageli Ejiofor (AC Disaster Management, FHQ Abuja), Ibrahim Ada Yusuf (AC Idu Railway Abuja), Muazu Imaru Dange (A/COR T/Wada Kano), and Samuel Ebikebina Debekeme (C/ DOO-Akpo Bayelsa State Command).

    The Commission also approved the promotion of 35 Chief Superintendents of Police (CSPs) to the rank of Assistant Commissioners of Police (ACPs).

    While congratulating the promotees, the Chairman of the Police Service Commission, DIG Hashimu Salihu Argungu (rtd), described their promotions as a recognition of merit, dedication, and excellence in service.

    He charged the newly-promoted officers to redouble their efforts and justify their new ranks through unwavering commitment to effective policing and national security.

    “The promotion is not an end but an opportunity to contribute more to the noble task of safeguarding lives and property.

    “The Commission remains committed to transparency, merit, and adherence to global best practices in all promotion processes.

    “As we say: If you fail, you fail – you return next time to re-sit. After three failures, retirement follows in line with Public Service Rules,” DIG Argungu stated.

    He commended the PSC Board Members, including Hon. Justice Paul Adamu Galumje (JSC rtd), Dr. Taiwo Lakanu (DIG rtd), and the Secretary to the Commission, Chief Onyemuche Nnamani, for their invaluable contributions to the success of the exercise.

    The Police Service Commission reaffirmed its dedication to building a professional, efficient, and accountable Nigeria Police Force through fair and rigorous promotion processes.

  • Editors Inaugurate Committee on Research, Training, Publications

    Editors Inaugurate Committee on Research, Training, Publications

     

    By Dianabasi Effiong

    The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has inaugurated its Research, Training, and Publications Committee as part of efforts to keep members informed on emerging issues, enhance professional skills, and promote journalism scholarship through book publications and research.

    The committee, chaired by Prof. Chinyere Stella Okunna, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Paul University, Awka, comprises seasoned journalists and media professionals drawn from media management, academia, and publishing.

    Other members of the committee are Dr. Tony Onyima, Fellow of the Guild and former Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief of The Sun; Ms. Angela Agoawike, Fellow of the Guild and Founder/CEO of Omalicha FM, Owerri; Dr. Iyobosa Uwugiaren, Senior Editor/Member of Editorial Board, THISDAY; and Dr. Kabir Alabi Garba, Weekend Editor, The Guardian.

     

    (President, Nigeria Guild of Editors (NGE), Eze Anaba (middle) with Prof. Chinyere Stella Okunna, Chairman of the Guild Research, Training and Publications Committee (4th right); Dr. Tony Onyima (2nd right); Ms. Angela Agoawike (4th left); Dr. Iyobosa Uwugiaren (left); Dr. Kabir Alabi Garba (2nd left); Mr. Onuoha Ukeh (3rd left); Ms. Rose Moses (3rd right) and Mr. Gabriel Akinadewo (right) at the inauguration of the committee in Lagos.)

     

    Speaking at the inauguration, the President of the NGE, Eze Anaba, said the Guild, which regarded the committee’s assignment seriously, carefully constituted it to reflect a healthy blend of academic scholarship and industry experience.

    He stressed the need to bridge the gap between academic training and professional practice in Nigeria’s media industry.

    According to him, the committee’s work is expected to strengthen journalism practice and help address the disconnect that often exists between journalism education and the realities of newsroom operations.

    Anaba said, “The membership of the committee was carefully selected to reflect this aspiration of bridging the gap between the town and gown.

    “I have no doubt that members will deploy their collective expertise to advance the Guild’s intellectual and professional mandate.”

    The NGE president added that the Research, Training, and Publications Committee was constituted to promote knowledge, skills, and best practices in journalism and media through research, training, and publications.

    Anaba, who outlined the committee’s terms of reference, said the body would conduct and support research on issues relevant to journalism and media practice, including studies on readership, viewership, and listenership trends.

    According to him, the committee will also develop and deliver training programmes to enhance the skills and knowledge of journalists and media professionals.

    “The committee will also publish materials, including books, journals, and online content, that promote excellence, innovation, and best practices in journalism, to strengthen the professionalism of Guild members,” he said.

    Responding on behalf of the committee, its chairman and Fellow of the Guild, Prof. Okunna, described the initiative as timely and significant.

    “With the calibre and experience of members of this committee, I am confident that we will add considerable value to the Guild and the wider media industry,” she said.

    The inauguration ceremony, held at the Editors’ House, Ikeja, Lagos, was attended by the Guild’s General Secretary, Onuoha Ukeh; Assistant General Secretary, Gabriel Akinadewo; and Rose Moses, a member of the Guild’s Standing Committee representing the West.

    The committee will serve a two-year term.

  • ECCIMA urges govt to improve on empowerment of MSMEs

    ECCIMA urges govt to improve on empowerment of MSMEs

    ECCIMA urges govt to improve on empowerment of MSMEs

     

    The Enugu Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines (ECCIMA) has called on government at all levels to empower Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to become global brand producers.

     

    The President of ECCIMA, Mr Nnanyelugo Onyemelukwe, made the call on Thursday in Enugu during a press conference to announce the forthcoming 37th Enugu International Trade.

     

    The fair, which is themed: “Empowering MSME’s for Global Competitiveness”, would hold between March 21 and March 30th at the International Trade Fair Complex, Enugu.

     

    Onyemelukwe said that the fair would provide platform to assess the nation’s economic outlook, the attendant associated risks and opportunities that would be inclined to the business environment to make informed business and investment decisions.

     

    He said that the fair would be held to the satisfaction of all stakeholders adding that it would sustain new strategies and approaches introduced by former leaders of ECCIMA.

     

    He said, “Let me also, use the opportunity of this 37th Fair Press Briefing to reassess our concern on the issue of deepening democracy in our country.

     

    “The political atmosphere of the country is already heating up gradually, toward the General Elections of January and February, 2027.

     

    “There is no doubt that it is only with a thriving economy and free enterprise that our democracy would be rooted and attention given to the development and growth of our economy through free business enterprises.”

     

    The chamber president said that this could be achieved by unleashing the industrial sector and harnessing the oil and non-oil sectors of the nation’s economy for the much talked about value-chain for growth and development.

     

    “We are very hopeful that the 37th Enugu International Trade Fair would be a success, in spite of the challenges in the economic environment,” he said.

     

    Onyemelukwe noted that the fair would attract hundreds of major companies in Nigeria while the chamber had advanced talks with Ghana and Kenya officials and business concerns.

     

    He said that Gov. Peter Mbah would declare the fair open and the opening ceremony would attract Federal ministers, captains of industries and other critical business stakeholders within the country.

     

    He disclosed that there would be free entry, tight security, 24 hours power supply, and exhibitors would use the newly inaugurated 3000 square metre tent.

     

    “We will deepen the use of social media as a marketing mix to reinforce our conventional media publicity and outreach in promoting the fair as well as putting more funding on publicity.

     

    “Provision of free Transport services to and from the trade fair complex from Abakpa, Emene, Gariki and Holy Ghost Bus Terminals.

     

    “This will be at prime time of each day, 4pm precisely, to encourage Enugu people to visit the fair.”

  • Standards: SON issues MANCAP certificates to 24 companies in Enugu

    Standards: SON issues MANCAP certificates to 24 companies in Enugu

    Standards: SON issues MANCAP certificates to 24 companies in Enugu

    The Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON) has issued Mandatory Conformity Assessment Programme (MANCAP) certificates to 24 companies operating within Enugu State.

    The MANCAP certificates covered 41 products of the companies and one of the companies received Product Identification Certificate for it’s unique product.

    Issuing the certificates on Thursday in Enugu, the Director-General of SON, Dr Ifeanyi Okeke, said that SON’s MANCAP certificate remained a seal of quality and international standards for made-in- Nigeria products globally.

    Okeke said that MANCAP is a mandatory product certification scheme which ensures all locally manufactured products conform with Nigeria Industrial Standards (NIS) before such products are presented for exported.

    Represented by Director, South-East Region of SON, Mr Chukwuma Aharanwa, the director-general noted that the issuance of MANCAP certificates to the companies followed periodic factory inspections, sampling and laboratory testing on the products to ensure their standards.

    Okeke advised the companies to ensure that products certified continue to meet requirements of their relevant standards.

    According to him, the product is to be re-certified every three years and it is of utmost importance that you note that the certificates will be withdrawn or suspended if the products fails to meet the established standards.

    “The benefits of the MANCAP certification included: enhanced business growth and opportunities; improved product quality that meet customers’ expectations; and encourages continual improvement on quality of products and processes by manufacturing companies.

    “Promotes global competitiveness among domestic manufacturers and their products; and promotes industrial/economic development by ensuring products meet the requirements of the relevant Nigeria Industrial Standards,” he said.

    Speaking, the State Coordinator of SON in Enugu State, Mr Peter Ameh, congratulated the companies for passing through SON’s rigorous testing. retesting, monitoring and frequent factory inspections.

    Amen noted that what SON do is primarily to provide guidance and mentoring for companies to come out with and attain the best and international standards of their products notwithstanding remote location of their factories.

    “Standards is a continuous process and since you (companies) are part of the SON family; we will continue to visit your manufacturing sites, assess you products periodically and give our professional advise where necessary,” he said.

    Responding, Chief Executive Officer of SNC Industries, Mr Stanley Nwakudu, one of the benefitting companies, said that MANCAP certification would boost the patronage of his product and make it compete favourably with other international brands.

    Nwakudu, whose industries produce Royal Germicidal Medicated Soap, assured SON that the company would sustain the standards of the product as it envision to make it the best brand globally.

  • A NEW DAWN FOR DEMOCRACY: REPETE APPLAUDS TINUBU, PLEDGES TOTAL ALIGNMENT WITH RENEWED HOPE

    A NEW DAWN FOR DEMOCRACY: REPETE APPLAUDS TINUBU, PLEDGES TOTAL ALIGNMENT WITH RENEWED HOPE

    The Hopeful Ibadan North Federal Constituency Aspirant, Hon. Khalil Mustapha Adegboyega (Repete), has warmly applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for signing the amended 2022 Electoral Act into law, describing the historic action as a bold step toward strengthening Nigeria’s democracy and restoring confidence in the nation’s electoral system.

    President Tinubu, while signing the bill into law at the State House, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to democratic consolidation, transparency, and national stability under his Renewed Hope Agenda. The signing ceremony, attended by key leaders of the National Assembly including Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, marked a defining moment in Nigeria’s democratic evolution.

    Reacting to the development, Hon. Khalil Mustapha Adegboyega (Repete) praised the President’s visionary leadership and courage in steering necessary reforms that will ensure free, fair, credible, and technologically progressive elections.

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has once again demonstrated statesmanship and relentless commitment to deepening our democracy. By signing the amended Electoral Act, he has strengthened the pillars of transparency, accountability, and public trust in our electoral process. This is Renewed Hope in action — practical, purposeful, and people-driven,” Repete stated.

    Repete further commended the President for balancing technological advancement with electoral integrity, noting that safeguarding manual processes while enhancing electronic transmission reflects strategic foresight and national interest.

    “The Renewed Hope Agenda is not just a slogan; it is a governance philosophy anchored on institutional reforms, economic revitalisation, and democratic stability. Ibadan North deserves representation that understands and aligns with this progressive vision,” he added.

    Hon. Khalil Mustapha Adegboyega (Repete), known for his grassroots connection, youth engagement, and commitment to inclusive development, reaffirmed his readiness to champion policies that resonate with President Tinubu’s reform-driven administration.

    He emphasized that Ibadan North Federal Constituency requires a forward-thinking legislator who will collaborate effectively with the Presidency to deliver tangible dividends of democracy to the people.

    “Democracy flourishes when leadership is courageous and representation is responsible. I am fully committed to supporting the President’s reform agenda at the National Assembly and ensuring that Ibadan North becomes a model constituency under the Renewed Hope framework,” Repete declared.

    As Nigeria prepares for future electoral cycles under the amended law, Repete stands as a dependable progressive voice — loyal to party ideals, aligned with presidential reforms, and prepared to advance legislative excellence.

    With proven dedication, political maturity, and unwavering loyalty to the progressive cause, Hon. Khalil Mustapha Adegboyega (Repete) represents the bridge between grassroots aspirations and national leadership — a trusted ally of the Renewed Hope Presidency and a credible choice for Ibadan North Federal Constituency.

    The moment calls for tested loyalty, visionary alignment, and legislative competence. Repete embodies them all.

  • Iran’s new supreme leader urges continued closure of Hormuz Strait, vows to open new battlefronts

    Iran’s new supreme leader urges continued closure of Hormuz Strait, vows to open new battlefronts

     

     

    TEHRAN:  (Xinhua)/Flowerbudnews:  — Iran’s new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei on Thursday called for the continued closure of the Strait of Hormuz and pledged to open new fronts in his country’s conflict with the United States and Israel.

    He made the remarks in his first message published on his website since Sunday’s announcement of his appointment as Iran’s supreme leader.

    “The demand of the masses of people is the continuation of the effective and regret-inducing defense. Also, the lever of blocking the Strait of Hormuz must definitely continue to be used,” Khamenei said, addressing the country’s people and armed forces.

    “Studies have been conducted on the opening of other battlefronts where enemy has little experience and will be extremely vulnerable, and their activation will take place if the war situation continues and based on considering the interests,” he said.

    Khamenei extended condolences over the “heartbreaking martyrdom” of his father, former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, saying he learned of the Assembly of Experts’ decision to select him as Iran’s new leader, like other Iranians, through state-run IRIB TV.

    The new supreme leader praised the country’s “brave” armed forces, who “have blocked the enemies’ path with their crushing blows, and have dispelled their illusion of being able to dominate or possibly divide Iran.”

    He vowed to avenge the “blood Iran’s martyrs,” and said Iran will seek compensation from its “enemies.” If refused, “we will take as much of their property as we determine, and if that would not be possible, we will destroy the same amount of their property,” he said.

    Khamenei said Iran is willing to have “warm and constructive” relations with all the 15 countries with which it shares land or water borders. However, due to the presence of the “enemy’s” military and financial bases in some, Iranian strikes on those facilities will continue without attacking the neighbors themselves, he said.

    He advised Iran’s neighbors to shut down U.S. bases in their territories as soon as possible, “as they must have realized by now that the U.S. claim of establishing security and peace was nothing more than a lie.”

    On Feb. 28, Israel and the United States launched joint attacks on Tehran and several other Iranian cities, killing Iran’s then Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, along with senior military commanders and civilians. Iran responded by launching waves of missile and drone strikes targeting Israel and U.S. bases and assets in the Middle East.

    U.S. and Israeli officials said they are preparing for at least two more weeks of strikes in Iran, with no internal directive on when fighting might stop, according to a Wednesday Axios report.