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Rival Groups Clash Over Desmond’ Elliot’s Fourth-Term Bid

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  A coalition of stakeholders in Surulere has rejected the bid by Desmond Elliot to seek a fourth term as the lawmaker representing Surulere Constituency I in the Lagos State House of Assembly. The group, under the aegis of the Surulere Accountability Forum, made its position known in a statement issued on Wednesday in Lagos by its spokesman, Olanrewaju Badmus. Badmus said the decision followed a broad assessment of Elliot’s performance over three terms, which, according to the coalition, fell short of expectations. According to him, community leaders, youth groups, small business representatives, and civil society organisations participated in the review and collectively agreed that the constituency required a new direction. He added that after three terms in office, constituents expected clearer evidence of development and policy innovation, noting that the area continues to grapple with infrastructure decay, youth unemployment, and inadequate primary healthcare. The coalition maintained that its stance was not driven by personal bias but by a commitment to accountability and democratic principles. It stressed the need for leadership that reflects the evolving aspirations of the people and prioritises tangible outcomes. Badmus also called on residents and party stakeholders to support candidates with fresh ideas and renewed energy capable of advancing the constituency. “As stakeholders, we remain committed to promoting inclusive participation and ensuring that leadership remains responsive to the needs of the people,” he said. The development comes as political activities begin to gather momentum ahead of the primaries of the All Progressives Congress for the 2027 general elections. However, the opposition to Elliot’s fourth-term ambition is not without contrast. Earlier, a separate group of party members and residents reportedly staged a rally in support of the lawmaker, urging party leaders to adopt him as a consensus candidate, citing what they described as his impactful representation. The emerging divide among stakeholders signals a potentially competitive race for the Surulere Constituency I seat as the election cycle approaches.

EPL: Chelsea Lead Premier League Agent Spending at £65.1m

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  Chelsea FC have once again topped the Premier League’s agent spending table, paying out £65.1m over the past year as overall fees across the division climbed to £460m. The figures, covering the period between February 2025 and February 2026, represent a 13% increase on the previous year and include payments made to agents for transfers, contracts and other football-related deals involving players, coaches and clubs. As reported by BBC Sport on Wednesday, Chelsea’s latest outlay marks the third consecutive year they have led the league in agent fees, bringing their total spending over the last three reporting periods to around £200m. The high expenditure comes during a period of significant financial movement at Stamford Bridge, with the club recently announcing a record pre-tax loss of £262m, the largest in Premier League history. The club has partly attributed those losses to an aggressive transfer strategy, which included offloading close to £300m worth of players in an effort to comply with UEFA financial regulations, while continuing to invest heavily in squad restructuring. Aston Villa FC ranked second, spending £38.4m on agents, an increase of £13.4m, the biggest rise among all top-flight clubs. Despite relatively modest transfer spending, Villa’s higher costs were driven by contract renegotiations and new player registrations under manager Unai Emery. In third place, Manchester City FC paid £37.4m, although their spending dropped significantly from £52.1m the previous year. Elsewhere, several clubs recorded notable increases. Arsenal FC saw their payments rise to £32.1m, while Liverpool FC spent £33.9m after a £13m increase. Wolverhampton Wanderers FC also posted a sharp rise, reaching £26m. Newly promoted Sunderland AFC experienced one of the biggest jumps, with agent fees increasing from £2.2m to £10.6m as they strengthened their squad following promotion via the play-offs. However, not all clubs increased their spending. Newcastle United FC reduced their payments by £4.1m to £20.3m, while Leeds United FC cut theirs by £4.9m to £14m despite returning to the top flight. Smaller decreases were also recorded by Manchester United FC, West Ham United FC, Brentford FC, Fulham FC and Nottingham Forest FC. Beyond the Premier League, agent spending also rose across the English football pyramid. In the Women’s Super League, fees increased by 75% to £3.8m, with Chelsea FC Women accounting for more than a quarter of the total at £1.1m.  

2026 Police Week: Effective Policing Cannot Be Achieved In Isolation, Oyo CP Charges Stakeholders

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  The Commissioner of Police in Oyo State, CP. Abimbola Olugbenga, has called on stakeholders to strengthen collaboration with security agencies, stressing that effective policing cannot be achieved in isolation. Olugbenga made the call on Wednesday at a public lecture held at the Oyo State Police Command Headquarters Conference Hall, Eleyele, Ibadan, as part of activities marking the 2026 National Police Day, themed “Community Partnership: Building Trust.” Addressing community leaders, media practitioners, political party representatives, market stakeholders, officials of the Federal Road Safety Corps, and members of the public, the police chief emphasised that the Nigeria Police Force relies heavily on mutual cooperation, respect, and trust between law enforcement and citizens. He said, “Forums like this sensitisation lecture are indispensable. They educate, engage, and empower the public to make informed and lawful decisions.” Olugbenga also delivered a lecture on the sensitisation of drivers on safe driving practices and compliance with traffic regulations, noting that road traffic fatalities remain a major concern in the state. According to him, avoidable accidents continue to claim lives due to negligence and disregard for traffic rules. “When motorists obey traffic regulations and ensure their vehicles are roadworthy, the risk of accidents and loss of life reduces significantly. We must all remain committed to safe driving,” he said. The CP urged participants to take the lessons from the lecture back to their respective communities, reiterating that security is a shared responsibility. “Effective policing is not the duty of the police alone. Through trust, cooperation, and active engagement, we can build a safer, more peaceful, and law-abiding society,” he added. In his presentation, the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations, DCP James Usen Ekanem, who delivered the lead lecture on public sensitisation on the prevention of electoral violence, ballot snatching, and related offences, stressed the need for collective action to ensure credible elections. He warned that democratic processes cannot thrive in an atmosphere of violence and intimidation. “Votes cannot be counted and democracy cannot thrive where violence and intimidation prevail,” Ekanem said. He outlined the roles of security agencies in safeguarding elections, including maintaining peace, protecting sensitive electoral materials, enforcing the law, and apprehending offenders, while also highlighting the role of citizens in ensuring electoral integrity. “Every citizen has a role to play in safeguarding our democratic process,” he added. Speaking on behalf of the Independent National Electoral Commission, the Administrative Secretary in Oyo State, Mrs Agnes Olutimi, who represented the Resident Electoral Commissioner, Prof. Adeniran Rahmon Tella, commended the police for its proactive engagement with stakeholders. She underscored the importance of electoral integrity and highlighted measures put in place to ensure credible polls, including the deployment of technology such as the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System and the INEC Result Viewing Portal, timely deployment of materials and personnel, voter education, and strict enforcement of the Electoral Act 2026. “Peaceful elections are a collective responsibility. When institutions are strong, laws are enforced, and citizens are informed, elections will reflect the true will of the people,” she said. The lecture also addressed the responsibilities of political parties, the media, and community leaders in preventing electoral violence. Activities marking the 2026 National Police Day, which commenced on March 30, have included environmental sanitation at Challenge Motor Park, a medical outreach at Alesinloye Market, and a walkathon across Ibadan to promote unity and healthy living. The lecture formed part of the third day of activities, focusing on electoral safety and road traffic education. The fourth day, scheduled for April 2, will feature the presentation of cheques to families of deceased officers, while the grand finale will hold on April 7 at Eagle Square, Abuja, with senior police officers from across the country expected in attendance.

Itansan Art Fest To Celebrate Ancestral Heritage In Ibadan•••As Convener Adewunmi Lauds Oyo Govt For Endorsing Even

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  The convener of the forthcoming Itansan Art Fest, Adekunle Adewunmi Elizabeth, has said the initiative is driven by a deep commitment to preserving cultural heritage and celebrating ancestral legacy through creative expression. Adewunmi made this known during a pre-event red carpet session held at Plot 11, Oluyole Estate Road, Ibadan, where she engaged guests, creatives, and stakeholders on the vision behind the project. The festival, themed “Beacon of the Ancestors,” is scheduled to hold on May 22, 2026, at the Adeline Hall of Lead City University, Ibadan. Addressing participants, Adewunmi described the gathering as more than a ceremonial event, appreciating attendees for their presence and contributions. “This is not just a gathering; it is a room filled with people whose voices and presence truly matter,” she said. Speaking on the inspiration behind the festival, she noted that her journey as a theatre artiste, alongside her royal roots as a princess from Ile-Ife, significantly shaped the initiative. “My journey has always been rooted in culture, tradition, and storytelling. At some point, I began to ask what if this expression could become something bigger than me,” she said. According to her, that reflection led to the birth of Itansan Art Fest, which she described as “a platform, a space, and an experience that goes beyond just one individual.” Explaining the meaning behind the festival’s name, Adewunmi said Itansan translates to “Ray of Light,” symbolising cultural illumination and reverence for ancestors. “We want to shine a light on our culture and, most importantly, our ancestors. It is about honouring those who came before us while carrying their stories, strength, and spirit forward,” she added. She further explained that the festival is designed to bridge generational gaps by connecting the past, present, and future through artistic expression. The event will feature a variety of cultural showcases, including stage plays, traditional music and dance, visual arts, and fashion exhibitions. A major highlight of the festival will be the launch of Adewunmi’s comic book titled “Emissaries of the Gods: IKO ORISA,” which reimagines Yoruba deities as superheroes for children and teenagers. Describing the festival experience, she emphasised that it is intended to be immersive rather than passive. “This is not something you just attend; it is something you feel. We want people to experience culture in a way that stays with them,” she said. Adewunmi also called for collaboration and active participation from stakeholders, stressing the importance of collective input in building a sustainable cultural movement. “Please don’t hold back. Share your ideas and tell us what will excite your community and make this festival unforgettable,” Adewunmi urged. Adewunmi noted that the Ooni of Ile -Ife, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, His Wife, Olori Aderonke Ogunwusi, Madam Jaiye Kuti, Abiodun Adeyemi (President Karim Adeyemi Foundation) as well as the Oyo State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Hon. Wasiu Olatunbosun, among others are expected to grace the event. The Itansan Art Fest is expected to bring together artists, cultural enthusiasts, and the general public in a vibrant celebration that blends tradition with contemporary creativity while reinforcing the importance of cultural preservation.

Nigerians, Others to Pay More as Canada Raises Residency and Citizenship Costs

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  The Government of Canada has announced an increase in application fees for permanent residencevv and citizenship for Nigerians and other foreign nationals seeking residency in the country. The new fees will take effect on April 30, 2026, according to an official notice published on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada website, sighted by The PUNCH on Monday. IRCC said the hike was aimed at maintaining timely and reliable services and keeping pace with inflation. “Starting April 30, 2026, fees for permanent resident applications will increase as part of a routine update. Applications received on or after April 30 will be subject to the new fees,” it said. The agency noted that permanent residence fees will increase by as low as $25, while the citizenship fee will rise by approximately 2.7 per cent. The Right of Permanent Residence Fee increases by $25, from $575 to $600, while the Provincial Nominee Programme increases by $40, from $950 to $990 For Business Class, there’s an increase of $85, from $1,810 to $1,895, while Family Class increases by $25, from $545 to $570. For Protected Persons, there is an increase of $25, from $635 to $660, while the fee for a visa on Humanitarian and Compassionate Grounds or Public Policy Measures increases by $25, from $635 to $660 Permit Holders increase by $15, from $375 to $390, with the Right of Citizenship Fee also increasing from $119.75 to $123, effective March 31, 2026. IRCC explained that under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations, permanent residence fees are adjusted every two years to offset programme costs and respond to growing demand.

Tinubu Condemns Killings in Plateau, Kaduna, Vows Justice

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  President Bola Tinubu has condemned recent attacks by gunmen in Plateau State and Kaduna State, describing the incidents as barbaric and unacceptable. The attacks occurred in Angwan Rukuba district in Jos and Kahir village in Kagarko Local Government Area, where several people were reportedly killed and others abducted, including wedding guests. In a Tuesday statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President assured Nigerians that those responsible would be brought to justice. He said, “Anyone who will sneak under the cover of the night and kill defenceless citizens as done in Jos and Kahir village, is a heartless coward. By attacking soft targets in Jos, their objective is not only to cause harm but also trigger a spiral of reprisal attacks and further bloodletting.” Tinubu directed security agencies to intensify efforts to track down the perpetrators and curb the spread of misinformation capable of escalating tensions. He also cautioned sections of the media against suggesting that the attacks were religiously motivated. The President reaffirmed that security agencies were actively addressing the situation and stressed the importance of public cooperation. “I urge our security agencies to be more proactive in preventing these attacks by acting on early warning intelligence. All the remaining abductees from Kahir village must be rescued immediately,” he said. He also commended the efforts of the Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, and Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, in managing the crises and supporting rescue operations. “I commend Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State for his efforts in containing the situation in Jos and Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State for supporting the rescue and containment efforts. I assure the people and government of the two states of my support,” the President said. Tinubu expressed condolences to families of the victims and wished the injured a speedy recovery, while reiterating the government’s commitment to strengthening security operations across the country. “Our government is currently acquiring more sophisticated equipment to enable our security agencies to track and smash criminals, in real time, wherever they are,” he added.  

Gospel Singer and Nollywood Soundtrack Icon Onos Brisibi Dies at 55

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  Gospel singer and Nollywood soundtrack voice, Onos Brisibi, has died at the age of 55. Brisibi, whose unmistakable vocals were featured in Nollywood classics such as Domitilla and Blood Money, died on March 23, 2026, after a prolonged illness. Her death was announced on Thursday in a tribute shared on Instagram by veteran Nollywood actor, Richard Mofe-Damijo (RMD). In the emotional post, RMD described her as a devout Christian and a gifted vocalist whose music touched countless lives. He wrote, “It’s hard to put into words the loss we feel. “My dear sister and cousin, Onos Nancy Brisibi, went to be with the Lord on March 23rd, 2026, after a long and difficult illness. She was born on November 20th, 1970, to Apostle Ambrose Oproze Brisibi (of blessed memory) and Deaconess Mary Koko Brisibi of Aladja, Udu, Delta State. “Onos was more than family—she was love in human form. A devoted Christian, a beautiful soul, and a gifted songstress whose voice carried so much light and joy. She didn’t just sing; she ministered, lifting hearts and drawing people closer to God. She loved deeply, laughed freely, and gave so much of herself to everyone around her. “I called her Onos pokor pokor, and in return she would call me Uncle Richard—with that her playful, almost British accent. Where Warri girl wey never go England see that kind accent from? That was just who she was—full of life, humour, and charm. “The memories keep flooding in—even till her last days, when with Mama we sat reminiscing and teasing her about how, as kids, she would leave Mama Titi’s house just to come and eat at my mum’s place, where her ‘special plate’ was always waiting. Through it all, her laughter never left her—and it still echoes in our hearts now. “She leaves behind her daughter, Sarah, her mother, siblings, and so many of us who will carry her in our hearts always. “The tears are many, but the memories are even more. And we are comforted, like all who knew her and her dedication to spreading the gospel through music, that she is finally resting with the Lord. “I will miss you deeply, my sweet coz. I love you—always will. Rest in perfect peace, Onos. You were truly loved.” Brisibi, born on November 20, 1970, to Apostle Ambrose Oproze Brisibi (late) and Deaconess Mary Koko Brisibi of Aladja, Udu, Delta State, was widely regarded for her contributions to gospel music and her memorable presence in Nollywood soundtracks. She is survived by her daughter, Sarah Brisibi, her mother, siblings, extended family, friends, and her church community at LoveWorld Ministries.

Lagos Arrests Mother Over Alleged Torture of 11-Year-Old Son

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  The Lagos State Government has rescued an 11-year-old boy who was allegedly tortured by his biological mother. In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Lagos State Bureau of Public Defender (BPD) said the child had endured sustained physical abuse involving electric cables and other harmful objects, leaving him with multiple injuries. The agency said it immediately notified the police after receiving the report. Following an investigation by officers at the Nigeria Police Force, Igbogbo Division, Ikorodu, the mother was arrested and charged to court. “The Bureau of Public Defender (BPD) received a case involving an 11-year-old minor (name withheld) who was subjected to severe physical abuse by his biological mother,” the statement read. “The abuse reportedly involved the repeated use of electric cables and other harmful objects, resulting in multiple injuries of varying degrees. “The Bureau reported to the police and following a thorough investigation conducted by the Nigeria Police Force at the Igbogbo Division in Ikorodu, the suspect was arrested and subsequently charged to court. The case was brought before the Magistrate Court in Ikorodu, the BPD confirmed. The bureau added that the child has since been removed from the abusive home and placed in a secure government shelter, in line with its mandate to protect vulnerable children. The suspect has been remanded in custody pending further legal proceedings. “The matter was brought before Magistrate Court in Ikorodu, Lagos. “In line with its mandate to uphold and protect the rights and welfare of children, the Bureau of Public Defender ensured that the victim was promptly removed from the abusive environment and placed in a secure shelter for care and protection. “The alleged perpetrator has been remanded in custody pending further legal proceedings.”  

NCC to Curb SIM Fraud with New Platform

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  The Nigerian Communications Commission has unveiled plans to introduce a Telecoms Identity Risk Management System platform to tackle SIM-related fraud, strengthen digital security and boost confidence in Nigeria’s digital economy. The Executive Vice Chairman of the commission, Aminu Maida, disclosed this in Abuja on Thursday at a stakeholders’ consultative forum on the proposed platform and planned regulatory changes. Maida, who was represented by the Executive Commissioner, Stakeholder Management, Rimini Makama, said the Mobile Station International Subscriber Directory Number, commonly known as SIM or mobile phone number, had become central to financial transactions, digital identity and access to services, but warned that its widespread use had also created vulnerabilities. He noted that fraudulent activities linked to recycled, swapped, churned and barred SIMs had emerged as a major channel for identity theft and financial crimes, weakening trust in digital platforms. He said, “The Mobile Station International Subscriber Directory Number commonly known as the SIM or mobile phone number has evolved into a critical identifier underpinning financial transactions, digital authentication, and access to essential services across all sectors of our economy. “This evolution, however, has created new and challenging vulnerabilities. The fraudulent use of churned, recycled, swapped, and barred MISISDN’s has become a significant vector for financial fraud and identity theft, eroding public trust in our digital platforms and undermining the identity of systems we have worked hard to build. “It is in direct response to these challenges that the Commission has initiated the Telecoms Identity Risk Management System Platform.” According to him, the platform will allow service providers to verify mobile numbers flagged for suspicious or fraudulent activities before granting access, a move expected to reduce exposure to fraud and improve accountability. He added that the system would enhance coordination among regulators, financial institutions and security agencies to build a more resilient digital ecosystem. To support the rollout, the commission has proposed amendments to its Quality of Service Business Rules and the Registration of Communications Subscribers framework. The proposed changes require telecom operators to notify subscribers at least 14 days before recycling their lines and to upload details of churned numbers to the platform within seven days. The amendments also introduce stricter provisions for blocking fraudulently registered or misused SIMs, aimed at improving transparency and protecting consumers. Maida said the initiative reflects the commission’s commitment to collaboration and a whole-of-government approach to addressing digital risks, urging stakeholders to actively contribute to shaping the framework. Also speaking, the Director of Cybersecurity and Internet Governance at the commission, Olatokunbo Oyeleye, said trust remains critical to the digital economy. “As rightly noted, digital trust is the operating licence of modern economy. Without it, nothing scales and with it everything accelerates. For our sector, this trust must be embedded across the entire value chain,” she said. The PUNCH earlier reported that the NCC proposed that telecom operators must give subscribers a minimum of 14 days’ notice before deactivating their SIM cards over inactivity or post-paid churn. The proposal was contained in a consultation paper titled Stakeholders Consultation Process for the Telecoms Identity Risks Management Platform, dated February 2026 and published on the Commission’s website. Under the proposed amendments to the Quality-of-Service Business Rules, the NCC stated that “prior to churning of a post-paid line, the Operator shall send a notification to the affected subscriber through an alternative line or an email on the pending churning of his line.” It added, “This notification shall be sent at least 14 days before the final date for the churn of the number.” A similar provision was proposed for prepaid subscribers. The commission said, “prior to churning of a pre-paid line, the Operator shall send a notification to the affected subscriber through an alternative line or an email on the pending churning of his line,” stressing again that the notice “shall be sent at least 14 days before the final date for the churn of the number.”  

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