The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has issued a strong warning to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), cautioning that going ahead with its planned congress against a court order could cost the party dearly.

INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, speaking on Arise News, made it clear that defying the court could trigger serious consequences, including the nullification of election victories.

He warned that the party risks repeating the Zamfara political crisis, where candidates who won elections were later sacked by the courts for failing to follow due process.

“If they go ahead, what happened in Zamfara can happen again,” Amupitan cautioned.

He explained that even if ADC candidates win at the polls, the courts could overturn such victories, handing power to candidates who came second — a situation that has also played out in Plateau State.

“Disobeying court orders has consequences,” he stressed, noting that INEC is determined to avoid another legal and electoral crisis.

Despite the warning, ADC leadership, led by its National Chairman, David Mark, has insisted it will proceed with its planned congresses and national convention.

Traditional Ruler of Amawbia, Igwe Uchenna Okonkwo (Okpaligwe), has announced a total prize of ₦187,000 for farmers who produce the biggest yams in the community.

The announcement was made on Saturday during the grand finale of this year’s Ezi Okpaligwe ceremony held at Amawbia Town Hall.

Igwe Okonkwo said the festival marks the beginning of the farming season, adding that the initiative is aimed at encouraging productivity among farmers.

According to him, the farmer or village that produces the biggest yam will receive a cash prize of ₦100,000, while the second and third positions will get ₦50,000 and ₦25,000 respectively.

He also urged the people of Amawbia to seek blessings for a fruitful farming season, offering prayers with kolanut for a bountiful harvest.

In his remarks, the President-General of Amawbia Town Union, Nze Chukwuka Odumodu (Akalanze Amawbia), described the community as peaceful and united, with a strong vision for progress.

He noted that the strength of Amawbia lies in its unity, which continues to drive steady growth and development.

“This is not just a gathering,” he said, “but a celebration of who we are as a people — united, resilient, and committed to a better future.”

Also speaking, the Deputy Speaker of the Anambra State House of Assembly, Hon. Patrick Okoye, said he attended the event because of his deep roots in Amawbia and pledged continued support for the community.

Highlights of the event included dance performances by Amawbia women and an appearance by the revered Ijele masquerade.

It was a gathering of influential women and key stakeholders as the Anambra State Chapter of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) marked the 2026 International Women’s Day in grand style at the Dora Akunyili Women Development Centre, Awka.

Setting the tone for the event, the State Chairperson of NAWOJ, Tochukwu Ifejika, in her address of welcome, described the celebration as a tribute to women who have broken barriers and excelled in their various fields. She noted that their achievements serve as inspiration and mentorship for younger generations.

Speaking on the theme, “Justice. Action. For All Women and Girls – Give to Gain: Projecting Anambra Female Achievers 2.0,” she emphasised that empowering women ultimately benefits society as a whole and called for greater inclusion of women in leadership and decision-making processes.
While highlighting the growing role of women in governance, Ifejilika stressed the need for equity and expanded opportunities for women to thrive. She also commended the Anambra State Government for entrusting women with key positions, describing it as a step in the right direction.

Adding his voice, the Chairman of the occasion and Chief Executive Officer of Seahorse Limited, Dr. Ebuka Onunkwo, said women have come of age and should be considered for top leadership positions and actively involved in decision-making processes.

He commended the organisers for the choice of theme, describing it as timely and relevant. According to him, there is a need for women to continually build their capacity to effectively take up leadership roles, noting that women have consistently proven their ability to excel when given the opportunity to serve.

In a keynote address that further deepened the conversation, Professor of Mass Communication, Stella Okunna, underscored the importance of women’s rights, describing them as fundamental human rights that must be upheld across all levels of society.
Prof. Okunna, who is also the first female professor of Mass Communication in sub-Saharan Africa, observed that gender equality remains a global challenge. She added that cultural and religious practices have, over time, worsened inequality between men and women, particularly in the South-East.

Turning to politics, she expressed concern over the low participation of women in governance, urging them to be more courageous in seeking elective positions.
“If women do not step forward to contest positions like the Senate, who then will speak for them?” she queried.
She further noted that while more women are needed in elective offices, those unable to contest should be considered for appointments to ensure broader inclusion.

Prof. Okunna advised women to support one another, especially as elections approach.

On her part, Vice Chancellor of the Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Professor Kate Omenugha recounted her husband supported her dreams of studying abroad adding that she owed her success first to God and to her husband. She went on a caution women against confronting their husbands. She advised women to employ negotiation mechanisms in resolving issues in the home.

The highlight of the event was the presentation of awards to distinguished individuals and organisations who have made significant contributions in their respective fields.

Among the awardees were ace broadcaster, Dr. Ify Aronu; former Commissioner for Education and Vice Chancellor of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Prof. Kate Omenugha; Rector of Federal Polytechnic, Oko, Dr. Chioma Awuzie; and renowned actress, Mrs. Ngozi Ezeonu.

Also honoured were the Commissioner of Police, Anambra State, Dr. Ikioye Orutugu; Executive Chairman of Anambra State Universal Basic Education Board, Dr. Vera Nwadinobi; educationist and woman leader, Barr. Oge Ekweozor; humanitarian, Mrs. Ngozi Eze; and Chief Press Secretary to the Anambra State Governor, Mr. Christian Aburime.

In addition, Mrs. Esther Onyekesi of the All Progressives Grand Alliance, Kates Associated Industry Limited, and Lovebite Bread were recognised for their contributions.

The event also featured goodwill messages from various women groups, further reinforcing the spirit of unity and shared purpose that defined the celebration.

The Enugu State Police Command has commenced a three-day free veterinary outreach, offering anti-rabies and other essential vaccinations for animals, as part of activities marking the 2026 National Police Day.

In a statement issued on Tuesday in Enugu, the Command’s spokesperson, SP Daniel Ndukwe, said the outreach, which runs from March 31 to April 2, is being conducted by the Nigeria Police Force Veterinary Services.

According to him, the exercise is taking place at the Police Veterinary Clinic, located at No. 3 Police Mobile Force (MOPOL 3) Squadron Base along Agbani Road, Enugu, between 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily.

He explained that services provided include anti-rabies vaccination, DHLPP vaccination covering distemper, hepatitis, leptospirosis, parvovirus and parainfluenza as well as free treatment for animals and farm consultation services.

The Commissioner of Police in the state, Mr Mamman Giwa, urged pet owners and livestock farmers to take advantage of the initiative to safeguard the health of their animals. He noted that the outreach underscores the command’s commitment to strengthening community relations and promoting public safety through preventive health measures.

Giwa also commended the Inspector-General of Police, Mr Olatunji Disu, for introducing innovations in the commemoration of National Police Day, describing them as impactful in deepening police-community engagement.

Meanwhile, the Enugu State Government has confirmed an outbreak of rabies in dogs within Igbo-Etiti Local Government Area, raising fresh public health concerns.

The State Commissioner for Agriculture and Agro-Industrialisation, Dr Patrick Ubru, disclosed this in a separate statement on Tuesday, urging residents to adopt immediate preventive measures to curb the spread of the disease.

He advised dog owners to vaccinate their pets promptly, restrict animal movement, avoid contact with stray animals and report suspected cases to relevant authorities.

The concurrent police outreach and government advisory highlight an urgent need for coordinated action to contain the outbreak and protect both animal and human health in the state.

The Commissioner of Police in Enugu State, Mr Mamman Giwa, on Tuesday led officers and residents in a two-hour walkathon across major roads in Enugu metropolis, urging them to embrace a culture of walking for improved health and alertness.

The exercise forms part of activities marking the National Police Day 2026, with the police boss emphasising that regular walking whether structured or routine remains essential for physical fitness, mental wellbeing, and overall productivity.

Mr Giwa said the Command would institutionalise walkathons and similar initiatives as part of its social and wellness programmes, aimed at boosting the fitness and operational readiness of personnel.

He commended the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Disu, for the well-coordinated lineup of events for the 2026 celebration.

The Enugu State chapter of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) joined the exercise, which also took place simultaneously in Nsukka and Udenu Area Commands, drawing active participation from members of the public.

Activities marking National Police Day 2026 will continue on April 1 with sensitisation campaigns on election security, electoral offences, safe driving practices, and compliance with traffic regulations across the Command’s formations.

Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Retired), has arrived in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital, to personally evaluate the ongoing security situation in the North-East region.

The minister was received upon arrival by the Theatre Commander of Joint Task Force North East (Operation Hadin Kai), Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, and other top military officers. This marks his first official visit to the state since assuming office as Defence Minister.

Gen. Musa’s trip comes amid renewed insurgent activities in parts of Borno State. His schedule includes engaging directly with frontline troops, commissioning completed military projects, reviewing current operations, and holding strategic briefings with field commanders at the theatre headquarters.

The visit follows President Bola Tinubu’s earlier directive for service chiefs to relocate temporarily to Maiduguri to intensify counter-insurgency efforts after a series of coordinated attacks. It builds on recent trips by the Chief of Defence Staff and Chief of Army Staff to the region.

Military sources describe the minister’s on-ground assessment as a clear demonstration of the Federal Government’s resolve to boost operational effectiveness, enhance troop morale, and restore lasting peace and stability to the North-East. Further details on outcomes from the visit are expected in the coming days.

Aprokorepublic

Civil servants in Enugu State have expressed widespread excitement following the approval of promotion and conversion for 2,114 public workers by Governor Peter Mbah.

The affected workers participated in the November/December 2025 promotion and conversion exercises conducted across the state civil service.

The approval, which takes immediate effect, also covers the financial implications of the new ranks, ensuring that beneficiaries begin to enjoy their upgraded status without delay.

Chairman of the Enugu State Civil Service Commission, Mr. Robison Odo, who disclosed the development on Tuesday in Enugu, described the gesture as timely and morale-boosting, likening it to an Easter gift for workers.

According to him, the exercise cut across officers on Grade Levels 01 to 17 who successfully passed the promotion interviews.

“The Executive Governor recently approved the release of the promotion and conversion of 2,114 officers who participated in the 2025 exercise. The approval also takes immediate effect with the financial benefits attached,” Odo said.

He assured that the commission would expedite implementation of the governor’s directive.

Odo commended the administration for its sustained commitment to workers’ welfare, noting that prompt payment of salaries, pensions and gratuities had become a hallmark of the government.

He further highlighted the state’s N80,000 minimum wage as exceeding the national benchmark, describing it as a clear demonstration of the governor’s worker-friendly policies.

“Workers are genuinely excited. This is a strong motivation for improved productivity and commitment to service. We deeply appreciate the governor for prioritising our welfare despite ongoing infrastructural development across the state,” he added.

The commission chairman pledged continued discipline, innovation and productivity within the civil service to align with the administration’s development agenda.

Also speaking, the Head of Service, Dr. Godwin Anigbo, said the governor’s policies had created an enabling environment for workers to embrace reforms and deliver optimally.

He noted that the administration’s focus on innovation had transformed the public service, equipping workers with modern skills required for efficient service delivery.

“We are working closely with the Civil Service Commission to ensure that workers are adequately prepared to align with the government’s reform-driven agenda. The administration has introduced forward-looking initiatives that are repositioning the service for greater efficiency,” Anigbo said.

He added that the government’s investment in capacity building, including the training of civil servants in digital competencies, was facilitating the transition from analogue to technology-driven operations.

Anigbo also lauded the approval for the establishment of a public service training institute, describing it as a critical step towards strengthening institutional capacity and improving service delivery.

Despite the state’s heavy investment in infrastructure and other capital-intensive projects, he said the administration had maintained a strong commitment to workers’ welfare.

The Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS) has extended
the deadline for filing individual annual income tax returns to April 14.

On February 25, LIRS asked individual taxpayers in Lagos to
file their annual tax returns for the 2026 year of assessment on or before
March 31.

However, in a statement signed by Monsurat Amasa-Oyelude,
head of corporate communications, on Monday, Ayodele Subair, executive chairman
of LIRS, said the extension, from the March 31 deadline, gives taxpayers more
time to complete their filings.

Subair said individuals must prioritise timely submission of
their returns, noting that tax compliance should be treated as a routine
obligation.

He added that the extension is intended to enable taxpayers
submit accurate returns without errors.

The chairman also said that electronic filing through the
LIRS eTax platform remains the only approved method for submitting annual
retums, as manual filings have been completely phased out.

“Individuals are therefore required to file their returns
exclusively through the LIRS eTax portal: https://etax.lirs.net,” he added.

The chairman described the platform as “secure,
user-friendly, and accessible 24/7”.

“Individuals to ensure that their TaxID (Tax Identification
Number) is correctly captured in their submissions,” the LIRS chairman added.

Subair advised individuals requiring assistance to visit any
of its offices or reach out through its official communication channels.

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The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has directed mobile network operators (MNOs) to compensate subscribers for poor quality of service (QoS) in areas where performance falls below regulatory standards.

In a statement issued on Sunday, Nnenna Ukoha, head of
public affairs at the NCC, said the directive is aimed at ensuring that
consumers do not bear the full burden of service disruptions caused by
operators’ failure to meet prescribed benchmarks.

“The commission’s position is that subscribers should not be
made to bear the full burden of service disruptions where operators fail to
meet prescribed standards of service delivery,” she said.

The spokesperson said affected subscribers will receive
compensation in the form of airtime credits, calculated based on their average
spending patterns and their presence in locations where service failures occur.

“Erring operators will compensate affected users directly
for breaches of quality of service key performance indicators within specified
time frames,” Ukoha said.

According to the regulator, the move reflects a shift
towards a more consumer-focused regulatory approach.

“While regulatory fines have traditionally served as a
deterrent against poor service delivery, the commission is adopting a more
consumer-focused approach that strengthens accountability within the industry,”
Ukoha added.

The spokesperson said tower companies would be required to
reinvest fines and other financial penalties into infrastructure upgrades to
improve network quality.

The NCC said it will continue to reinforce the obligation of
operators to invest consistently in network resilience, capacity expansion, and
infrastructure upgrades.

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