Punch Times News

By Adesakin Adefemi  The Deputy Speaker of the Northern Youth Assembly of Nigeria , Itodo Apeh Godswill , has expressed his deepest condolences to the families of the victims of the recent killings in Jos, Plateau State . The situation is indeed disheartening and worrisome, with the massacre situation escalating fast and getting hard to keep up. The recent killings and massacres in Jos are unacceptable and require immediate attention from the government. As a youth leader, Godswill urged all stakeholders, including security agencies, community leaders, and the government, to come together to find a lasting solution to this crisis. He emphasized the need to prioritize the safety and well-being of citizens. The government must take immediate action to protect lives and property, Godswill said. It's time for the government to rise to action, not just words. Concrete steps are needed to address the root causes of this violence and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice...

By Adesakin Adefemi  Kwara State PDP Youth Leader, Adio Odunjo, has condemned the government's handling of insecurity in the state, saying it's a clear case of leadership failure. The statement comes as bandits continue to strike with impunity, leaving a trail of destruction and fear in their wake. "This is a clear case of leadership failure, and it's unacceptable," Odunjo said. "The government must wake up and take responsibility for the safety of our people. We can't continue to live like this, with bandits dictating what happens in our state." The recent attacks in Kwara State are a stark reminder of the government's incompetence and lack of strategic direction. Where is the intelligence coordination? Where is the urgency? Where is the visible, result-driven action? Press statements and empty assurances cannot substitute for decisive leadership. Every delayed response, every unaddressed attack, is a loud declaration that the safety of the peop...

By Adesakin Adefemi  NAPS President, Comrade Eshiofune Paul Oghayan, has sounded a distressing alarm, saying "Jos is bleeding" and urging the Federal Government to take immediate action to address the country's insecurity. Oghayan's statement comes in response to a devastating attack in Jos, Plateau State, on Palm Sunday, which left multiple people dead and families shattered. The attack, which has sparked widespread outrage and calls for action, is being condemned by many as a tragedy against humanity. Oghayan, in his statement, urged the Federal Government to move beyond routine condemnations and implement lasting solutions to address the country's insecurity. "Nigerians deserve lasting solutions, not promises without visible action," he said. The NAPS President advocated for the transformation of forests into military and paramilitary agricultural zones, where young Nigerians can be gainfully employed and prevented from recruitment into banditry, insu...

By Kehinde Odinde  Students of Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU) have taken a bold stand against police brutality, protesting the alleged assault and unlawful detention of their colleagues by officers of the Oru-Ijebu police command. The incident, which occurred on Saturday, has sparked widespread outrage and calls for justice. According to eyewitnesses, the students' union legal director was physically assaulted, kicked, and manhandled while trying to verify the situation at the police station. Another student was also slapped by officers, further escalating the situation. The students' union, led by President Kehinde Bamgbose and General Secretary Olajire Emmanuel, condemned the "disturbing and inhumane actions" by the police, alleging that students were subjected to assault, unlawful arrest, and gunfire. The union demanded an immediate investigation, prosecution of officers involved, medical treatment and compensation for injured students, and the unconditional rel...

By Kehinde Odinde  The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (rtd.), has urged Nigerian students to harness research, innovation, and patriotism to tackle the country's growing security challenges. Speaking at the Student Mentorship Summit (SMS ’26) in Abuja, organised by the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), the Defence Minister emphasised the pivotal role of students in national development. Comrade Olushola Oladoja, NANS President, said the summit aimed to empower students with cross-sector mentorship in tech, aviation, security, and anti-drug/cybercrime advocacy. "We are committed to equipping our members with the skills and knowledge needed to drive positive change in Nigeria," he said. Comrade Oladoja highlighted the importance of youth involvement in shaping the country's future, noting that students are key stakeholders in Nigeria's development. He thanked the Defence Minister and other stakeholders for their support and commitment ...

The League of 2027 Osun State House of Assembly Aspirants (OSHA 2027 Aspirants) has unequivocally declared its unwavering support for the re-election bid of Governor Ademola Nurudeen Jackson Adeleke, and firmly dismissed circulating rumours suggesting the allocation of automatic tickets to the incumbent members of the Osun State House of Assembly in the forthcoming party primaries. In a statement issued today by the group in Osogbo, Osun State, the League emphasized that the political antecedents of Governor Ademola Adeleke, and, by extension, the Adeleke political dynasty, clearly reflect a strong commitment to democratic principles, and stressed that no form of autocratic arrangement or undemocratic proposal can thrive under the watch of the administration. The League further noted that Governor Adeleke’s emergence as Governor of Osun State was a direct result of strict adherence to the provisions of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) and the Electo...

Press Release  The attention of National Association of Nigerian students(NANS), Zone C(North Central) was drawn to the directives and approval of the committee of Deans and Directors (CDD) in Joseph Sarwan Tarka University,Makurdi,Conveyed in a memo with Ref. R/UAM/ADM/03 Dated 23rd March, 2026. The directive from the CDD for students to vacate the hostels by 6:00pm same day and embark on a 2 weeks Easter break remains questionable,one would ordinarily think the break is to celebrate the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ according to the Christian faith but with the evacuation order conveyed in the memo,it is a calculated plan to silence the students who are peacefully agitating for their rights. NANS have also received several complaints about the delay and non compliance of the bursary department to disburse the Nelfund loan to the beneficiaries. The sum of Fifty Eight Million,one Hundred and Forty Thousand,four Hundred and Ninety Naira (58,140,490.00) was disbursed to the ...

By Adesakin Adefemi  The President of the Students' Union Government (SUG) of Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, Chisom Samuel Ochuba, has alleged that he and his team were brutally assaulted by UDOGACHI security operatives at an off-campus residential area in Awka. The incident occurred earlier today, March 25, 2026, when Ochuba and his team rushed to the scene to protect students who were being arrested and assaulted by the security personnel. According to eyewitnesses, the UDOGACHI security operatives were seen attacking students and damaging properties at the residential area, leaving several students injured and traumatized. When Ochuba and his team intervened, they were met with violence and threats. The security personnel allegedly smashed bottles and threatened to shoot the students, saying they were "too powerful" and would not be held accountable for their actions. Ochuba condemned the brutal assault and called for justice, stating that this was not the f...

By Adesakin Adefemi  The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has strongly condemned the conduct of former presidential candidate and human rights activist Omoyele Sowore at the Federal High Court, Abuja. The incident involved Sowore clashing with Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Musibau Adetunbi, while attempting to address journalists inside the courtroom. Sowore entered the courtroom with individuals carrying camera phones and recording equipment, setting up what appeared to be preparations for a press conference. Despite his case not being listed for hearing, Sowore began addressing national issues, leading to tension in the courtroom and a confrontation with Adetunbi. The NBA stated that Sowore's actions were unacceptable and inconsistent with the discipline required in judicial proceedings. NBA President Afam Osigwe emphasized that courtrooms are open to the public to promote transparency and public confidence, but must be conducted with restraint and respect for judicial authority. The...

By Adesakin Adefemi   Comrade Juliet Obinta, Female Leader of the Bakitarians, has penned a heartfelt birthday message to Comrade Akinteye Babatunde Afeez (BABTEE), leader of the Bakitarians, expressing her deep gratitude and appreciation for his leadership and mentorship. The message, which has been making rounds on social media, has warmed the hearts of many who know BABTEE's commitment to empowering Nigerian students. In the message, Comrade Obinta Juliet described BABTEE as an "angel in human form, my pathfinder, and a leader who truly stands in the gap for others." She celebrated his exceptional leadership and the impact he has had on Nigerian students, saying he has changed the narrative and inspired a new generation of leaders. Comrade Obinta Juliet recalled how BABTEE believed in her capacity and supported her decision to contest for Coordinator, never making her feel limited because of her gender. "You didn't see my gender, you saw my capacity," she...

By Adesakin Adefemi  The PBAT Door-to-Door Movement, led by High Chief (Dr) Government Oweizide Ekpemupolo, successfully organized a solidarity walk in London to welcome President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu during his historic state visit to the United Kingdom on March 19, 2026. Hon. Sunday Adekanbi Asuku, National Coordinator of the PBAT Door-to-Door Movement, expressed his encouragement by the passion and discipline demonstrated during the solidarity walk. He emphasized that the movement remains committed to taking the message of Renewed Hope from door to door, mobilizing support, and contributing to Nigeria's progress. The initiative was driven by the movement's commitment to the Renewed Hope agenda and their belief in President Tinubu's transformative leadership. Nigerians in the diaspora came out in large numbers to show their support, united by a shared vision for a stronger and more prosperous Nigeria. The solidarity walk was more than just a ceremonial welcome; it wa...

By Adesakin Adefemi  Akinteye Babatunde Afeez, popularly known as Babtee, has received a significant boost in his bid for the NANS presidency with the Borno State stakeholders throwing their weight behind him. He expressed gratitude for the endorsement, pledging to repay the trust with diligence and results. The endorsement is a major milestone in Babtee's campaign, built around the "EPOCH" agenda - empowerment, progress, opportunity, collaboration, and human capacity development. He's been actively campaigning, highlighting his experience in student leadership and vision for NANS. Borno State's endorsement is a significant show of support, and Babtee's expected to leverage it to secure more endorsements. His supporters welcome the endorsement, seeing it as recognition of his leadership abilities and commitment to student welfare. Babtee's been a prominent figure in NANS, serving as Senate President and Vice President (External Affairs). He's advocated...

By Adesakin Adefemi  A power struggle within the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) has intensified, with Tajudeen Baruwa taking control of the union's Abuja secretariat, claiming court rulings in his favor. The move has sparked tension and controversy, with incumbent National President, Musiliu Ayinde Akinsanya, popularly known as MC Oluomo, insisting he remains the legitimate leader. The takeover comes amid a prolonged leadership tussle within the union, with both camps laying claim to the national leadership following a series of court cases and internal disputes. Baruwa, who claimed to have waited nearly two years for compliance with the court rulings, said his faction had taken control of the secretariat in execution of the judgments of the National Industrial Court and the Court of Appeal. MC Oluomo, however, has described the development as a "forceful takeover" and maintained that due legal processes were still ongoing. In a statement posted on his I...

By Adesakin Adefemi  A deadly attack on ECWA's Church in Omugo, Ifelodun Local Government, has left many worshippers kidnapped, sparking widespread outrage and calls for the government to act. The incident has exposed Kwara's crumbling security situation, with critics blaming the government for neglecting its primary duty to protect citizens. The attack is the latest in a string of incidents that have left Kwara's residents living in fear. The state's failure to address insecurity has emboldened kidnappers and bandits, who now operate with impunity. As the state grapples with the aftermath, politicians are accused of prioritizing their 2027 ambitions over the people's safety. Kwara State PDP Youth Leader, Adio Odunjo, has sounded the alarm, urging the government to refocus on security and abandon politics. "The first duty of government is security, not politics," he emphasized. Comrade Odunjo Adio, PDP Youth Leader, Kwara State, released a statement condem...

By Adesakin Adefemi  Comrade Akinteye Babatunde Afeez (BABTEE), a NANS Presidential Aspirant, has appealed to the Governor of Ondo State, H.E Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, for a job opportunity for Blessing Oluwajuwonlo Oripenaye. This appeal is a testament to BABTEE's commitment to addressing the pressing issues facing Nigerian youths. With his track record of advocating for youth empowerment, BABTEE has become a beacon of hope for many young Nigerians seeking change. As a NANS Presidential Aspirant, BABTEE has consistently demonstrated his dedication to empowering youths and promoting collective action. His appeal to the Ondo State Governor is part of a broader effort to address youth unemployment in Nigeria, a challenge that has left millions of young Nigerians without a stable source of income. BABTEE emphasized the importance of engaging and equipping youths to make them responsible leaders of tomorrow. He stated that the government must prioritize job creation and security ...

The Coalition of Progressive Youths (COPY), a vibrant assembly of forward-thinking and patriotic young Nigerians committed to the ideals of good governance, party discipline, and national development, hereby proudly and unequivocally declares its full endorsement of Barrister Ajibola Basiru for re-election as the National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC). At a time when our great party requires stability, administrative excellence, and unwavering loyalty to its founding ideals, Barr. Basiru has distinguished himself as a pillar of competence, consistency, and courage. Since assuming office as National Secretary, Barr. Basiru has demonstrated exceptional administrative capacity, ensuring the smooth coordination of party activities across all levels. His tenure has been marked by 1. Strengthening Internal Party Democracy: He has played a crucial role in organizing credible party processes, fostering inclusiveness, and ensuring that the voices of stakeholders are heard and...

By Kehinde Odinde  The Ogun State Emergency Medical Services and Ambulance System (OGSEMSAS) has partnered with the Federal Road Safety Corps to enhance emergency response and save lives on the state's highways, marking a significant milestone in the state's efforts to improve road safety. This strategic collaboration aims to create a synergy between the two organizations, fostering a united front in tackling emergency situations and providing timely medical attention to those in need. Dr. Hassan Adelakun, the state Director of OGSEMSAS, revealed that the partnership is part of the Ogun State Emergency Medical Treatment Committee (OGSEMTIC), a multi-stakeholder initiative that brings together key players in the state's emergency response ecosystem. The partnership is expected to yield significant results, with Dr. Adelakun noting that it's a "game-changer" for the organization. "By working together, we can significantly reduce response times and save more...

By Adesakin Adefemi  Saudi Arabia has declared Friday, March 20, 2026, as the day for the celebration of Eid-el-Fitr, after confirming that the crescent moon was not sighted. This announcement was made known on the HaraminInfo handles across all social media platforms on Wednesday. The declaration has sparked interest among Nigerian Muslims, who are awaiting the Sultan of Sokoto's announcement on the Eid-el-Fitr date. In Nigeria, the Sultan of Sokoto traditionally declares the date for Eid-el-Fitr celebrations. The Saudi Arabian authorities' announcement has brought joy to Muslims worldwide, marking the end of the Ramadan fasting period. "May Allāh allow us to utilise the remaining moments of this blessed month to engage in that which pleases Him, may He accept our siyām, qiyām & a’māl and may He allow us to witness many more Ramadāns in good health. Āmīn," HaraminInfo wrote. Nigerians are advised to wait for the Sultan's declaration before celebrating Eid-el-...

By Adesakin Adefemi  Akinteye Babatunde (Babtee), a former Vice President and Senate President of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), has secured the support of the Epoch Movement, Kwara State chapter, for his bid for the NANS Presidency. The group's declaration of support was made at an Iftar program held in Ilorin, Kwara State. Prominent stakeholders, including the JCC Chairman of Kwara State, Comr. Saleeman Issah Yusuf, and other SUG Presidents from various institutions in Kwara, pledged their backing for Babtee's candidacy. Comr. Obafemi Opeyemi Isaac (Logic), the former SUG President of Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin, recounted how Babtee's humility and commitment to leadership had won him over. According to Isaac, he had invited Babtee to a Parliamentary Summit he organized last year as a resource person, despite having no prior personal relationship with him. "Babtee's surprise attendance at the summit, despite travelling from Ondo State, ...

By Adesakin Adefemi  Grammy-winning Nigerian music superstar Burna Boy has made history as the first African artist to gross the highest revenue from a single concert. His "No Sign of Weakness" tour has become the highest-grossing tour by an African artist in Oceania's history, with $3.1 million from 31,000 tickets sold across 4 shows. The milestone was achieved during the Sydney stop of his tour at Qudos Bank Arena in Sydney, Australia, generating $1.117 million in revenue. This impressive feat showcases Burna Boy's global appeal and the growing influence of African music on the international stage. The "No Sign of Weakness" tour was held across 20 shows in three continents, including North America, Europe, and Oceania. During the Oceania leg of the tour, four shows in Australia sold about 30,946 tickets and generated $3.1 million in total revenue. Burna Boy's achievement is a testament to the power of African music and its ability to attract large audi...

By Adesakin Adefemi  A Lagos-based woman, Osarobo Odigie, has sued popular TikTok streamer Habeeb Hamzat, aka Peller, for allegedly defaming and cyber harassing her. The lawsuit stems from a confrontation at Folixxx Lounge in Lagos, where Peller allegedly verbally abused Odigie and recorded a video of her without consent. The incident occurred on January 6, 2026, when Odigie was at the lounge to purchase food. Peller allegedly confronted her, used abusive language, and recorded a video of her without permission. The video was later shared on social media platforms, sparking widespread criticism and allegedly leading to harassment and cyberbullying directed at Odigie. Odigie's lawyers, FA Garrick & Co., have accused Peller of using abusive language, including Yoruba curses, and recording the confrontation without her permission. They are seeking a public apology, removal of the video from all social media platforms, and notification of third-party blogs and platforms where the v...

By Adesakin Adefemi  Comrade Odunjo Adio, Kwara State PDP Youth Leader, has slammed the government over the rising cases of insecurity in the state, urging them to take urgent action to address the crisis. The state of insecurity in Kwara has reached a frightening and intolerable height, with citizens feeling abandoned and fearful. Communities are being forced to organize fundraising efforts to pay ransom to kidnappers, highlighting the government's inability to provide adequate security. Rising cases of kidnapping, persistent fear in rural communities, and along roads, are clear indications that the structures meant to safeguard citizens are failing. The people of Kwara deserve more than empty assurances and excuses. They deserve to feel safe in their homes, communities, and on the roads. The government's inaction has emboldened kidnappers and other criminals, who now operate with impunity. Comrade Odunjo Adio emphasizes that "the responsibility to secure lives and proper...

By Adesakin Adefemi  A heated controversy has erupted in Nigeria's political circles, with Hon. Comr. Salahudeen A. Lukman, a prominent public figure, responding to malicious and libelous allegations made against him by Mr. Atiku Abubakar Isah. The accusations, which linked Lukman to cultism and violent activities, have been vehemently denied by the politician. In a statement, Lukman described the allegations as "completely false, malicious, and fabricated" and accused Isah of being a "serial liar, propagandist, and habitual impersonator". He questioned Isah's credibility, citing his questionable activities and history of making reckless allegations against prominent Nigerians. Lukman, a graduate of several reputable institutions, including Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin, and Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, emphasized his zero tolerance for cultism, violence, and criminal conduct. He challenged Isah to substantiate his claims in a court of law. According to...