Flowerbud News

Year: 2026

  • 90 tons of performance-enhancing drugs seized in global investigation: WADA

    90 tons of performance-enhancing drugs seized in global investigation: WADA

     

    NEW DELHI, April 16 (Xinhua)/Flowerbudnews:  — Tons of performance-enhancing drugs were seized and illicit labs were dismantled in the Global Anti-Doping Intelligence and Investigations Network initiative, the World Anti-Doping Agency said here on Thursday.

    In the final conference of the expansion phase of GAIIN in Asia and Oceania, WADA president Witold Banka briefed the participants about the development of the global initiative. In total, 51 countries and regions from across Asia and Oceania participated in this phase of the project.

    “The Global Anti-Doping Intelligence and Investigations Network initiative has already been a remarkable success with around 250 operations currently ongoing around the world,” he said.

    According to Banka, 88 illicit laboratories have been dismantled and almost 90 tons of performance-enhancing drugs have been seized by the authorities.

    “This represents 1.8 billion doses of drugs prevented from reaching the global market. These are extraordinary achievements, and they confirm that our intelligence-led, partnership-based approach is having the desired effect,” he added.

    Banka pointed out that anti-doping is “a team sport and WADA cannot do it alone.”

    “I want to thank our colleagues in governments, Anti-Doping Organizations and law enforcement around the world, including INTERPOL and Europol, for their wholehearted commitment to this project,” he said. “We rely on the collaboration of many organizations and individuals, including athletes, to make progress and to ensure a level playing field for all competitors.”

    Representatives of law enforcement agencies and Anti-Doping Organizations from over 60 countries and regions in Europe, Asia and Oceania were also updated on the ongoing “Operation Upstream” investigation, which has so far involved more than 20 countries and regions and led to the seizure of several tons of performance-enhancing drugs, coordinated by WADA, INTERPOL, and Europol.

    WADA’s Director of Intelligence and Investigations, Gunter Younger, said global collaboration had helped uncover a hidden supply chain that had been fueling the illicit market for performance-enhancing drugs.

    “With our ‘Operation Upstream’ partners, we have focused on powerful kingpin suppliers in Asia as well as their customers across continents, to shut down this global pipeline and the risks it poses,” he said.

    Acting Director of INTERPOL’s Financial Crime and Anti-Corruption Centre, Nick Court, said: “The fight against doping requires a unified global response. By combining law enforcement capabilities with the expertise of anti-doping authorities, we are strengthening our collective ability to disrupt the production and trafficking of performance-enhancing substances.”

    The expansion of GAIIN stems from the success of the I&I Capability and Capacity Building project in Europe that was carried out from 2022 to 2024. The next phase will take place in the Americas in 2026-2027 and will conclude in Africa in 2028-2029. The International Standard for Intelligence and Investigations will come into effect on January 1, 2027.

     

     

  • Hegseth threatens to bomb Iran’s “infrastructure, power and energy”

    Hegseth threatens to bomb Iran’s “infrastructure, power and energy”

     

    WASHINGTON, April 16 (Xinhua)/Flowerbudnews : — U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth warned on Thursday that if Iran does not accept a deal, the U.S. military will strike Iran’s “infrastructure, power and energy.”

    The U.S. naval blockade of Iranian ports would continue as the White House is “maximizing economic pressure” unless Iranian leaders “choose wisely,” Hegseth said at a Pentagon press briefing.

    “In the meantime and for as long as it takes, we will maintain this successful blockade. But if Iran chooses poorly, then they will have a blockade and bombs dropping on infrastructure, power and energy,” he said, calling the blockade “the polite way to go.”

    The U.S. military was “maximally postured to restart combat operations” if Iran did not agree to a deal, he threatened.

    U.S. troops in the Middle East are “rearming” and “retooling” amid the ceasefire, Admiral Brad Cooper, head of the U.S. Central Command, said at the press conference.

    U.S. President Donald Trump said on Wednesday that the U.S.-Israeli war with Iran is “very close to being over,” while again failing to offer a clear timeline.

    The two-week ceasefire is to expire next week.

     

  • REPETE FOR RESULTS, REPETE FOR REPRESENTATION — IBADAN NORTH DESERVES THE BEST

    REPETE FOR RESULTS, REPETE FOR REPRESENTATION — IBADAN NORTH DESERVES THE BEST

    In the evolving political conversation within Ibadan North Federal Constituency, one name continues to resonate across communities, party structures, youth forums, and professional circles — Khalil Mustapha Adegboyega (Repete).

    At a time when constituents are demanding competence over rhetoric, accessibility over distance, and measurable results over empty promises, Repete has steadily positioned himself as a bridge between aspiration and achievement.

    A Candidacy Rooted in Results

    Repete’s aspiration is not built on noise, but on a clear understanding of the needs of Ibadan North — education support, youth empowerment, infrastructure renewal, economic inclusion, and responsive representation. His message is simple yet powerful: representation must be felt, not merely announced.

    Across stakeholder engagements and grassroots consultations, he has consistently emphasized a legislative agenda focused on:

    Expanding educational opportunities and scholarships

    Supporting small businesses and local entrepreneurs

    Facilitating youth-driven innovation and skills development

    Advocating for infrastructure that stimulates economic growth

    Ensuring federal presence is visible and impactful in Ibadan North

    This is not a campaign of slogans — it is a movement anchored on structured engagement and strategic legislative intent.

    Representation that Reflects the People

    In today’s democratic climate, voters and party leaders alike are seeking candidates who understand both policy and people. Repete’s political communication style reflects clarity, inclusiveness, and accountability. He speaks the language of the grassroots while maintaining the intellectual depth required for national legislative engagement.

    Observers within party circles note that his growing acceptance cuts across demographic lines — youths, professionals, artisans, market leaders, and community stakeholders. His ability to unify diverse interests under a shared vision of progress sets him apart in the race for the party ticket.

    Capacity, Character, and Credibility

    Beyond ambition, Repete brings strategic thinking and a collaborative mindset — qualities essential for effective lawmaking. His supporters describe him as accessible, consultative, and solutions-oriented. These attributes reinforce the belief that he possesses not only the passion to serve, but the capacity to deliver.

    As internal party considerations advance, the conversation increasingly centers on electability, credibility, and grassroots connection. In these three areas, Repete’s profile continues to strengthen.

    The Defining Choice

    The pathway to victory in Ibadan North requires a candidate who embodies unity, competence, and forward-thinking leadership. It requires someone who can inspire confidence within the party and mobilize widespread support at the polls.

    That is why the message continues to echo across wards and communities:

    Repete for Results. Repete for Representation. Ibadan North Deserves the Best.

  • UNICAL: PROF PATRICK ENE OKON, 2 OTHERS APPOINTED HODs

     

    By Bassey Asuquo

    The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Calabar, Prof. Offiong Efanga Offiong, has approved the appointment of Prof. Patrick Ene Okon as Head of the Department of Mass Communication, Dr. (Mrs.) Kwita Adomi Dan-Obo as Acting Head of the Department of Journalism and Media Studies, and Prof. Joseph E. Asuquo as Head of the Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology.

    The appointments convey in separate letters and signed by the Vice Chancellor states that Prof. Okon and Prof. Asuquo’s appointment is for a period of three (3) years in the first instance, taking effect from 1st April 2026, while that of Dr. Dan-Obo is for a period of two (2) years in the first instance, with effect from 8th April 2026.

    The new Heads of Departments are expected to bring their wealth of experience and expertise to bear in the effective administration of their respective departments to ensure optimal productivity.

    As appointees of the Vice-Chancellor, they are required to align with the mission and vision of the current administration, while upholding the values and expectations of the University at all times.

    The Vice-Chancellor emphasizes accountability, noting that failure to deliver results within the stipulated timeline may attract appropriate sanctions.

    This is even as relevant sections of the University have been directed to accord them all courtesies associated with their new offices.

    #Public Relations Unit
    University of Calabar

  • PRES. TINUBU CONGRATULATES WADAGNI, BENIN REPUBLIC’S PRESIDENT-ELECT

    PRES. TINUBU CONGRATULATES WADAGNI, BENIN REPUBLIC’S PRESIDENT-ELECT

     

     

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated the President-elect of the Republic of Benin, His Excellency, Romuald Wadagni, on his victory at the polls, a statement by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy has disclosed.

    Romuald Wadagni, the country’s Minister of Finance, secured an overwhelming majority of the vote in the presidential election held on April 12, a statement by Presidential Spokesman, Bayo Onanuga disclosed.

    In a letter signed by him, President Tinubu said the victory “reflects the trust the Beninese people have placed in your vision and your distinguished record of service as Minister of Finance.”

    President Tinubu also stated that Nigeria and the Republic of Benin “share a long history of friendship, cultural ties, and cooperation,” adding that he looked forward to working with His Excellency Romuald Wadagni to strengthen bilateral relations.

    The full text of the letter :

    Your Excellency and Dear Brother,

    “On behalf of the Government and the people of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, I extend my warmest congratulations to you on your election as the President of the Republic of Benin following the polls held on April 12, 2026.

    “I commend the Government and people of the Benin Republic for conducting a peaceful election and noted that Wadagni’s victory reflects the trust the people have placed in his vision and record of service as the current Minister of Finance.

    “This transition marks a significant chapter in your nation’s history. I therefore commend the people of Benin for their resilience and commitment to the democratic process and to maintaining peace during the election cycle.

    “Our two nations share a long history of friendship, cultural ties, and cooperation. I therefore look forward to working closely with your administration to strengthen our bilateral relations further, enhance regional security, and promote economic prosperity within the ECOWAS sub-region and the African Union.

    “As you prepare to assume the onerous responsibilities of the high office of the Presidency, I wish you great wisdom, fortitude, and success. You can please rest assured of my unstinting support and cooperation in this regard.”

     

  • EFCC, cleric disagree over forfeited N70m Abuja house as court adjourns for ruling

    EFCC, cleric disagree over forfeited N70m Abuja house as court adjourns for ruling

     

    The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and a cleric, Mr Nuhu Muhammed, on Wednesday disagreed over the genuine owner of the recently forfeited N70 million Abuja property.

    EFCC counsel, Martha Babatunde, prayed Justice James Omotosho to dismiss the motion filed by Muhammed seeking an order setting aside the order of final forfeiture made on Feb. 18.

    Muhammed’s lawyer, Mike Enahoro-Ebah, while adopting his processes, told the court that his client was the bonafide owner of the property.

    Enahoro-Ebah argued that the cleric’s fundamental right to fair hearing was breached in granting the order.

    The lawyer accused the commission of procedural irregularity, concealment of truth and misrepresentation of facts.

    He, therefore, urged the court to order the EFCC to release forthwith to his client all the documents seized from him in respect of the property.

    But the anti-graft agency’s counsel, Babatunde, vehemently opposed Enahoro-Ebah’s application.

    She said the judge, on Feb. 18, made an order for final forfeiture of the property located at No. 12, 5th Avenue, 59 Crescent, Gwarimpa in Abuja, to the Federal Government, after the commission complied with earlier order.

    She said the court, on Jan. 13, granted the ex-parte interim order of forfeiture in respect of the property upon the commission’s application.

    The lawyer said the order was published on Jan. 23 in a national daily in accordance with the order of the court for any person to show cause why the property should not be permanently forfeited to the Federal Government.

    She said no person approached the court to challenge the interim order within the time frame given by the court.

    Babatunde, who described Muhammed’s application as baseless, said the property, comprising one unit of 4 bedroom detached bungalow with pent house and two-room boys quarters, was reasonably suspected to be proceeds of unlawful activities.

    She, therefore, urged the court to dismiss the cleric’s motion.

    Justice Omotosho adjourned the matter until May 28 for ruling.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the EFCC had, in the motion on notice marked: FHC/ABJ/CS/2431/2025, sought an order for the final forfeiture of the property.

    An EFCC’s investigator, Alozie Andrew, in the affidavit he deposed to, averted that a petition was received from the Anti-Corruption Network regarding the property.

    He said on receipt of the petition, it was assigned to his team for discreet investigation.

    The investigator said the N70 million used in the purchase of the property was traced to the Kogi State internally Generated Revenue Service (KGIRS).

    He said that Sen. Oseni Yakubu, while serving as the Chairman of KGIRS approved payments to Bespoque Business Solutions Ltd to which he was the sole signatory.

    Andrew alleged that Yakubu directed that the sum of N70 million he received as kickback from the consultant, be applied to purchase the said property.

    The officer averred that the funds, received as a kickback by Yakubu, was paid to EFAB Properties Ltd in two tranches of N25 million and N45 million.

    But Muhammed, in the affidavit he deposed to, said Sen. Yakubu was appointed as the chairman of Kogi Internally Generated Revenue Service (KGIRS) as a result of his sincere, earnest and effectual fervent prayers.

    The cleric said the appointment was also as a result of separate acts of devotion, costly offerings, sacrifices and obligatory vow fulfilment, all to Yakubu’s acknowledgement and approval.

    He said in fulfilling his vow, Yakubu offered to pay him in 2017 for his services and asked how the payment should be effected.

    According to him, I opted not to be paid in cash as I feared I would utilise the money for other clients and to solve other problems without having anything to show for it.

    “Hence, I informed him of my desire to acquire a landed property in Abuja-FCT particularly from Efab Properties Ltd at their Gwarinpa Estate,” he said.

    The Islamic scholar said Yakubu paid for the property and was given to him as a “gift to offset all his outstanding indebtedness to me at that material time.”

    But Andrew, in a counter affidavit he deposed to, prayed the court to dismiss Muhammad’s application.

    The investigator insisted that contrary to the cleric’s averment, it was Sen. Yakubu who directed the consultant to pay the sum of N70 million to Efab Properties Ltd for the purchase of the subject property using Nuhu Muhammed’s name.

    According to him, Exhibit EFCC 5 which is the statement of Senator Yakubu confirms that the senator paid for the property with proceeds of unlawful activity under the instructions of the former Governor, Yahaya Bello.

  • Sexual Misconduct: Court threatens to strike out charge against woman who accused Umahi 

    Sexual Misconduct: Court threatens to strike out charge against woman who accused Umahi 

     

    The Federal High in Abuja on Thursday threatened to strike out a charge filed by the police against a woman, Tracynither Ohiri, who allegedly accused the Minister of Works, David Umahi, of sexual misconduct.

    Justice James Omotosho gave the warning following the inability of the prosecution to produce Ohiri in court for arraignment.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the police had, in the charge marked: FHC/ABJ/CR/172/2026, preferred a 13 counts bordering on cyberstalking and defamation against Ohiri who is the sole defendant in the case.

    The charge, dated March 31, was filed same day by Wisdom Madaki from the Directorate of Legal Services, Police Force Headquarters, Abuja.

    In count one, Ohiri was alleged to have, on or about Oct. 16, 2023, intentionally transmitted through her TikTok account, a video publication wherein she accused the minister of threatening to kill her if she entered Ebonyi.

    The prosecution said the statement, which she knew to be false and of a menacing character, capable of causing fear and reputational injury, is punishable under Section 24(2)(c) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) (Amendment) Act, 2024.

    In count three, the defendant was alleged to have, on or about March 8, 2024, transmitted via her TikTok account, a video alleging that Umahi victimised her for refusing sexual relations and used his office to oppress women.

    Count four accused her of publishing via her TikTok account, on or about May 3, 2024, alleging that Umahi tied down her business capital for 10 years due to her refusal of his sexual advances.

    The police accused Ohiri in count six of publishing on Sahara Reporters and circulated on social media, on or about March 28, 2025, a statement alleging that Umahi owed her over N200 million for campaign materials which statement she knew to be false.

    In count seven, she was alleged to have, on the same date and through the same medium, alleged that non-payment of her mony was a retaliation for refusal of sexual advances, which she knew was false and intended to damage reputation.

    Count eight accused her of transmitting via her Facebook page, on or about Feb. 26, a video of a press conference wherein she stated that Umahi threatened to ensure she would “not leave Ebonyi State alive and that he would do to you what happened to the NELAN Engineers.”

    The prosecution, in count 10, accused Ohiri of causing her publications to be widely shared, reposted and circulated across social media platforms, thereby amplifying their reach and impact, with intent to cause hatred, ill will and reputational injury, among other counts.

    When the case was called for arraignment, neither the defendant nor her lawyer was in court.

    Madaki, who appeared for the police, told the court that though the matter was coming up for arraignment, they had been unable to serve the defendant.

    “We shall be asking for a date to enable us serve the defendant my lord,” he prayed.

    The lawyer begged the court for a long adjournment for them to do the needful.

    Justice Omotosho then asked the lawyer: “What effort have you made to serve?”

    The judge, who observed that the Investigating Police Officer (IPO) was also not in court, said the court is not a dumping ground.

    “If by next week you don’t bring her, I will strike out the case.

    “The IPO is not here. How will I know your seriously?”

    Although Madaki pleaded for a longer date, the judge refused.

    “I will give you till next week. You cannot file a charge and you will abandon it here and the case will be going one year, two years,” the judge said.

    Justice Omotosho subsequently adjourned the matter until April 24 for arraignment or for striking out.

  • Court adjourns EFCC’s charge against ex-Power minister for adoption of written addreses

    Court adjourns EFCC’s charge against ex-Power minister for adoption of written addreses

     

    The Federal High Court in Abuja on Thursday adjourned the alleged N33. 8 billion money laundering case filed by the EFCC against former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, until April 23 for adoption of final written addrsses.

    The matter, which was fixed for parties to adopt their written addrsses today before Justice James Omotosho, could not proceed due to the inability of the defence to file their process.

    When the case was called for hearing, Femi Atteh, SAN, who appeared for Mamman, informed the court that he had a motion, seeking an extension of time to file their written address.

    He said the motion, dated March 31, was filed on April 1.

    EFCC’s lawyer, Rotimi Oyedepo, SAN, did not oppose the application.

    Oyedepo, however, sought an order deeming the prosecution’s final written address properly filed and served and the judge granted it.

    Atteh, who said the EFCC served on him its process two days ago, sought an adjournment to enable him study it and to respond accordingly.

    Justice Omotosho then adjourned the matter until April 23 for parties to adopt their final written adddreses.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Mamman was appointed minister by the late former President Buhari in August 2019 and was sacked in September 2021.

    The EFCC, in the charge marked: FHC/ABJ/CR/273/2024, had preferred a 12-count amended charge against the ex-minister as sole defendant.

    The commission, in July 2024, arraigned Mamman on alleged money laundering and conspiracy with officials at the ministry and some private companies to “indirectly convert” the sum of N33.8 billion meant for the Zungeru and Mambilla Hydro Electric Power projects.

    The former minister, however, pleaded not guilty to the charges.

    The anti-graft agency, in proving its case, called 17 prosecution witnesses (PWs) and tendered 43 exhibits against the defendant before closing its case.

    However, Mamman, through his lawyer, filed a no-case submission on Nov. 19, 2025.

    The former minister, who formulated one issue for determination, said the prosecution failed to present credible and reliable evidence before the court to sustain a conviction against him or for him to enter his defence.

    Delivering the ruling on Dec. 11, 2025, the judge dismissed Mamman’s no-case submission on the ground that the EFCC had been able to establish a prima facie case against him.

    Justice Omotosho held that the evidence tendered was such that the defendant must proffer some explanations or put in a defence to the allegations made against him, especially considering the seriousness of the offences.

    The judge, however, said that Mamman was still innocent until proven guilty.

  • NIHOTOUR Dissolves Tourism Skills Council Board, Unveils New Leadership Structure

    NIHOTOUR Dissolves Tourism Skills Council Board, Unveils New Leadership Structure

    IBADAN — The Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR), Aare Dr. Abisoye Fagade, has dissolved the Governing Board of the Hospitality and Tourism Sector Skills Council of Nigeria (HTSSCN), as part of efforts to reposition the body for greater efficiency and industry relevance.
    Dr. Fagade announced the decision during the 50th anniversary celebration of the National Association of Nigeria Travel Agencies (NANTA) in Ibadan, describing the move as a strategic transition aimed at strengthening the sector’s capacity for skills development.
    He said the dissolution followed a comprehensive review of the Council’s operations, noting that the restructuring would enhance inclusiveness, improve coordination among stakeholders, and align the Council’s mandate with national economic priorities.
    According to him, the reform is designed to establish a more unified, industry-driven framework capable of delivering globally competitive standards in hospitality and tourism.
    “The reconstituted board will serve as the engine room for competency, certification, and workforce transformation across the hospitality and tourism value chain,” he said.
    Dr. Fagade also announced the constitution of a new governance structure for the Council, comprising a Board of Trustees and a Board of Directors, with representation from key regulatory and industry bodies subject to approval.
    He named Mr. Onung Nkereukem as Chairman of the Board of Trustees, alongside Alhaji Idris Abdullahi and Mrs. Toyin Dada as members. For the Board of Directors, Mr. Yinka Folami was named Chairman.
    The new structure is expected to include institutional representation from organisations such as HATMAN, NBTE, NHA, APCN, SON, NATOP and EMAN.
    The NIHOTOUR boss said the overhaul aligns with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which seeks to formalise and standardise the tourism sector to boost economic growth, create jobs and enhance national development.
    Speaking on the anniversary event, Dr. Fagade commended NANTA for its contributions to Nigeria’s travel industry over the past five decades, describing the association as a vital link between Nigeria and the global tourism market.
    He reiterated NIHOTOUR’s commitment to raising industry standards through initiatives such as its registration and certification platform aimed at improving professionalism and global competitiveness among operators.
    The event attracted major stakeholders across the tourism and hospitality sectors, signalling a renewed push by the Federal Government to drive reforms through stronger collaboration between regulators, private sector players and professional bodies.