Illicit drug use has been described as a direct path to ruined potential, as corps members were urged to steer clear of substance abuse during an awareness rally organised by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) at the NYSC orientation camp in Nonwa-Gbam, Tai, Rivers State.
The State Coordinator of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in Rivers State, Mr. Moses Oleghe, delivered the warning through the Camp Director, Mr. Barnax Uloneme, stressing that illicit drugs are “destiny destroyers” that must be avoided at all costs.
He charged corps members to become ambassadors of a drug-free society, urging them to extend the lessons from the three-day NDLEA sensitisation programme to communities across the state. According to him, corps members should take the campaign against drug abuse to “the nooks and crannies” of Rivers, discouraging harmful practices wherever they serve.
Oleghe also lamented cases where young people, including corps members, have become a burden to their families and society due to substance abuse, noting that such choices often derail promising futures.
Earlier, the NDLEA camp head, Assistant Superintendent of Narcotics, Odot Etukudo, expressed concern over the increasing rate of drug abuse among youths. She cautioned corps members against yielding to peer pressure, warning that experimenting with drugs is “a licence to the destruction of life and dreams.”
The rally forms part of ongoing efforts by the NDLEA to curb substance abuse among Nigerian youths through sustained sensitisation and community engagement.
The Faculty of Law at the University of Port Harcourt, Choba, Rivers State, has formally welcomed its first cohort of postgraduate students, marking a significant expansion of its academic offerings and ambitions within Nigeria’s legal education landscape.
At a maiden orientation programme held on Thursday at the Faculty Auditorium, the Dean, Professor Edward T. Bristol-Alagbariya, described the moment as both historic and strategic, as the Faculty deepens its commitment to advanced legal scholarship through the introduction of Master of Laws (LL.M) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programmes.
Addressing the new students, the Dean underscored the Faculty’s rapid evolution since its establishment. He recalled that following a successful verification visit by the Council of Legal Education in March 2017, the Faculty admitted its pioneer Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) students later that year.
He noted that the Faculty reached a defining milestone in 2023 when its pioneer graduates recorded three First Class Honours in their degree examinations and replicated the same feat at the Nigerian Law School’s Bar Part II examinations for the 2023/2024 session.
“Currently, the third set of our LL.B students have graduated and are undergoing their Bar Part II programme,” he said, adding that the postgraduate programmes were approved by the University Senate as part of efforts to broaden the scope of legal education.
Staff of the Faculty with the Dean, Professor Edward T. Bristol-Alagbariya (4th from left) during the orientation programme.
According to him, the newly introduced LL.M and PhD programmes are designed to equip students with the tools to interrogate complex legal issues using modern, interdisciplinary approaches suited to the demands of 21st-century legal practice.
He explained that the programmes will focus on specialised areas of both national and global importance, including Environmental Law, Energy Law, Sustainable Development Law, Commercial and Corporate Law, as well as Human Rights and Humanitarian Law.
Bristol-Alagbariya who is also a Professor of Sustainable Development Law and Mutidisciplinary Sustainable Development-Oriented Practices, also highlighted the strength of the Faculty’s academic and professional personnel, noting that it is staffed by experienced scholars, supported by eminent legal practitioners, jurists and guest lecturers who bring practical insight to teaching and research.
He assured students of robust administrative support, describing the Faculty as well-positioned to deliver high-quality postgraduate training.
The Dean further drew attention to the unique environment of Port Harcourt, often referred to as both the Oil City and the Garden City, describing it as a vibrant, multicultural setting that would enrich the students’ academic experience.
He extended a warm welcome to the students and host communities of Choba and Aluu, expressing confidence that their time at the institution would be both intellectually rewarding and memorable.
“We promise you very exciting and memorable moments here,” he said. “Enjoy your studies and your time at the University of Port Harcourt Faculty of Law.”
The maiden orientation programme for postgraduate students of the Faculty of Law, University of Port Harcourt also featured a series of presentations aimed at equipping students with essential academic and research guidance.
Chairman of the Faculty Postgraduate Committee, Professor Kaniye S. A Ebeku, set the tone with remarks outlining the structure and expectations of the postgraduate programmes, urging students to embrace discipline and scholarly excellence.
A representative of the School of Graduate Studies provided an overview of the university’s postgraduate framework, highlighting key regulations, academic standards and support systems available to students.
In a thought-provoking session, Professor C.C. Wigwe spoke on plagiarism and innovative legal research, stressing the importance of originality, academic integrity and the adoption of contemporary research methods in legal scholarship.
Further clarity on academic expectations was provided by Dr. Paul Tamuno, who detailed the requirements for the LL.M programme, while Professor E.P. Amechi addressed the structure and rigours of the PhD programme, encouraging students to remain focused and research-driven.
Students were also introduced to the resources of the Faculty’s law library by Bright Bebenimibo, Esq., who emphasized the importance of leveraging available materials for effective study and research.
On administrative procedures, the Faculty Officer, Mammy S. Otonnah, guided students through faculty and departmental registration processes to ensure a seamless academic experience.
An interactive question-and-answer session, moderated by Dr. Tamuno, gave students the opportunity to seek clarification on various aspects of their programmes.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Dr. Mercy Oke-Chinda, who appreciated the speakers and welcomed the students into the Faculty’s growing postgraduate community.
Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has commended the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), the Trade Union Congress (TUC), and their affiliate unions for embracing dialogue over confrontation in resolving industrial disputes, noting that the approach has entrenched workplace harmony across the state.
In a goodwill message to mark the 2026 May Day celebration, the governor attributed the prevailing peace in public institutions to the maturity and responsibility of organised labour, urging union leaders to sustain engagement through constructive dialogue to deepen progressive industrial relations.
In a press statement signed by Onwuka Nzeshi, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Fubara expressed appreciation to workers in the Rivers State Civil Service for their contributions to the state’s development, assuring them that his administration would continue to prioritise their welfare and well-being.
He disclosed that the ongoing rehabilitation of the State Secretariat Complex would, upon completion, enhance the work environment and boost efficiency and productivity.
Reflecting on the past 35 months, the governor noted that civil servants had maintained stability and dedication despite political challenges, assuring them that their sacrifices would not go unrewarded.
“Despite political tensions, you remained steadfast. Schools stayed open, hospitals continued to function. This is because you chose service over strife. Rivers State owes you a profound debt of gratitude,” he said.
Fubara paid tribute to workers across sectors, including teachers, healthcare professionals, engineers, sanitation workers, farmers, and artisans, describing them as the driving force behind the state’s growth and resilience.
“Today, Rivers State stands still to honour the people who keep it moving. You are the teachers in Khana and Ahoada who show up even when the rain is heavy. You are the nurses at Rivers State University Teaching Hospital ( RSUTH) who hold the night shift with grace. You are the civil servants in the State Secretariat who turn policy into service, the engineers on the Port Harcourt Ring Road braving the sun, the sanitation workers who give us clean streets before the city wakes, and the farmers and artisans whose labour feeds our economy.
“My charge to you this May Day: Keep being the difference. Be diligent and give your best to Rivers State. The road from Degema to Port Harcourt is shorter today because an engineer woke up to work. A child in Etche can read because a teacher refused to give up. That is the Rivers story. You are the authors,” Fubara said.
He added that salaries had been paid consistently, while efforts were ongoing to clear pension backlogs, with a pledge that no retired worker would be neglected.
He, however, acknowledged the economic pressures facing workers, particularly rising living costs and transportation expenses, but commended their resilience and commitment.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment, the governor assured workers that their trust would not be betrayed and called on them to remain diligent and dedicated to service.
“Keep making the difference. Your commitment continues to define the progress and story of Rivers State,” he added.
A coalition of elders and political stakeholders in Rivers State has formally signalled support for Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s re-election bid, procuring his Expression of Interest and Nomination forms under the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the 2027 governorship election.
The delegation, led by Hon. Awaji-Inombek Abiante, member representing Andoni/Opobo-Nkoro Federal Constituency, disclosed that the move was independently initiated and not at the behest of the governor.
Addressing journalists after the exercise, Abiante described the gesture as a “popular mandate,” driven by widespread demand from citizens across the state. He emphasised that the purchase of the forms was funded through grassroots contributions, portraying it as a collective endorsement of Fubara’s leadership.
“He did not send us. It is even possible he is yet to be aware that we have taken this step. This is a decision compelled by the people. He cannot turn his back on them,” Abiante said.
He further argued that the development reflects a growing democratic culture where leadership choices are shaped by public will rather than financial influence. Drawing a parallel, he noted that similar political precedents exist, including when influential groups in Lagos backed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu through comparable gestures.
The group anchored its endorsement on what it described as the governor’s strides in infrastructure and economic development. Key projects cited include the Trans-Kalabari Road, Andoni access routes, and initiatives within the blue economy sector.
Responding to concerns over the governor’s political alignment and the broader dynamics within Rivers politics, Abiante maintained that Fubara commands significant grassroots support, dismissing contrary views as detached from local realities.
According to him, the governor’s governance style and perceived connection with the people have set him apart, reinforcing calls for continuity beyond his current tenure.
No fewer than 6,200 shortlisted applicants from the nine Niger Delta states have taken part in a Computer-Based Test (CBT) conducted by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) as part of its Foreign Postgraduate Scholarship Programme.
The examination, held at the Rivers State University in Port Harcourt, marks the second phase of the 2026 scholarship exercise aimed at deepening human capital development across the region.
Speaking during the exercise, the Commission’s Director of Education, Health and Social Services, Dr Patience Ezugu, said the programme underscores the NDDC’s commitment to building a globally competitive workforce in the Niger Delta.
According to her, the initiative is designed to empower beneficiaries with the skills and knowledge required to contribute meaningfully to society, noting that the success of even one scholar could have a multiplier effect on families and communities.
Ezugu explained that the scheme, which began in 2010, has consistently sponsored scholars to reputable institutions abroad, many of whom return to support development efforts in the region. She added that the process remains transparent, with candidates able to view their scores immediately after completing the test.
Also speaking, Director of Education, Dr Awele Chukwudifu, said the scholarship programme was structured to deliver measurable impact by equipping young people with quality education and global exposure.
She commended the NDDC board and management for sustaining the initiative, describing it as a critical investment in the future of the Niger Delta.
Chukwudifu highlighted the transparency of the process, noting that instant result display enhances credibility and reinforces confidence among participants.
Some of the candidates also lauded the conduct of the examination. Victor Diekedie described the process as free, fair, and transparent, while Miss Ndukwe Esther expressed optimism that her performance would secure her a place among the eventual beneficiaries.
Providing further insight, the consultant overseeing the exercise, Mr Godson Ideozu, disclosed that more than 16,000 candidates initially applied for the scholarship, with 6,200 progressing to the CBT stage.
He explained that the examinations were conducted over four days, with multiple sessions held daily to accommodate participants from across the region.
Ideozu added that results are uploaded instantly upon completion of the test, after which successful candidates proceed to the oral interview stage, noting that the technology-driven process reflects the Commission’s commitment to fairness, accountability, and excellence.
Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has said the ongoing construction of a 25-unit residential estate for commissioners and special advisers is aimed at reducing government expenditure, enhancing efficiency, and strengthening security coordination.
Speaking after inspecting the project on Thursday in Port Harcourt, the governor explained that the initiative was informed by the absence of official accommodation for top government functionaries.
Fubara noted that previous administrations had maintained official quarters for senior officials, but these were eventually sold off, leaving the state with no structured housing for its executive members. He described the development as a setback that has compelled government to rely heavily on rented apartments.
According to him, the continued payment for private accommodation for commissioners and special advisers had become both costly and unsustainable, necessitating a long-term solution through the provision of a purpose-built estate.
The governor added that housing members of the State Executive Council in a single location would promote closer collaboration, improve response time to official duties, and boost overall productivity.
He also highlighted the security benefits, stressing that centralising the residences of key officials would streamline protection arrangements and reduce the burden of deploying multiple security details.
“When they are all living together, it makes it easier for us to have one unit of security, and this multiple carrying of police will stop,” he said.
Fubara expressed satisfaction with the pace of work and commended the contractor for the progress achieved so far, noting that the project remains on course for completion.
He disclosed that the estate is expected to be delivered and inaugurated by November, adding that it is designed as a durable infrastructure that will stand as a lasting legacy of his administration.
Barely hours after a Supreme Court ruling restored the leadership of former Senate President, David Mark, as National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), the party is facing renewed uncertainty following a push by the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) to deregister political parties without electoral representation.
The AGF and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), told a Federal High Court in Abuja that it is unconstitutional to retain political parties that have failed to secure any elective seats.
Fagbemi made the submission in response to a suit instituted by the National Forum of Former Legislators (NFFL), which is seeking the deregistration of several parties, including the ADC, Action Alliance (AA), Accord Party, Zenith Labour Party, and Action Peoples Party (APP).
Anchoring his argument on Section 225A of the Constitution, the AGF maintained that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) lacks the discretion to sustain the registration of political parties that fail to meet prescribed performance thresholds.
He argued that the continued existence of such parties not only bloats ballot papers but also strains public resources, complicates electoral administration, and undermines constitutional intent.
According to him, the provision was introduced through the Fourth Alteration to address ballot congestion and improve electoral efficiency.
Fagbemi further underscored his role as the chief law officer of the federation, with a duty to ensure strict compliance with constitutional provisions, including initiating or supporting legal actions where necessary.
Earlier, counsel to the NFFL, Yakubu Ruba (SAN), told the court that the suit is purely for constitutional interpretation, seeking clarity on the legality of retaining parties that allegedly fall short of statutory requirements.
In an affidavit deposed to by the forum’s Board of Trustees Chairman and National Coordinator, Nnanna Igbokwe, the plaintiffs contended that the affected parties have failed to win any elective offices at all levels of government — from presidential to councillorship positions.
They also alleged that the parties did not meet the constitutional benchmark of securing at least 25 per cent of votes in any state during presidential elections, nor demonstrated sufficient national spread across wards, local government areas, and states.
The forum warned that, unless the court intervenes, INEC may allow the parties to participate in the 2027 general elections, a move it said could further congest ballot papers and mislead voters.
The development signals fresh legal and political headwinds for the ADC, despite its recent reprieve at the Supreme Court, which affirmed the legitimacy of the Mark-led National Executive.
The Supreme Court on Thursday voided the order of the Court of Appeal that led to the derecognition of former Senate President, David Mark, as National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
In a unanimous judgment, the apex court held that the preservative order issued by the appellate court was made in bad faith and was both unnecessary and improper.
Delivering the lead judgment, Justice Mohammed Lawal Garba ruled that the Court of Appeal acted outside its bounds by granting an order that was neither sought nor canvassed by any of the parties in the suit.
The disputed order of status quo ante bellum, earlier issued by the Court of Appeal, had formed the basis upon which the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) declined to recognise the Mark-led National Executive Committee of the party.
By vacating the order, the Supreme Court effectively restored Mark and other members of the ADC National Executive as the legitimate leadership of the party, directing INEC to accord them due recognition.
The ruling is expected to have far-reaching implications for the ongoing leadership tussle within the ADC, bringing clarity to the party’s national structure.
Indications have emerged that the national leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has given its tacit approval for Siminalayi Fubara to emerge as the party’s candidate in the 2027 governorship election in Rivers State, in what could reshape the state’s political landscape ahead of the polls.
Multiple high-level party sources disclosed late Wednesday that the decision, reached after weeks of internal consultations and political maneuvering, is said to carry the blessing of the presidency. Though no official statement has been issued, insiders described the development as a “strategic alignment” aimed at consolidating the party’s hold on Rivers and stabilising its internal structure.
The emerging consensus, according to party chieftains familiar with the discussions, effectively clears the path for Fubara’s return bid, putting to rest lingering uncertainty over his political future amid ongoing realignments within the state.
Feelers indicate that the endorsement followed a series of closed-door engagements involving key stakeholders within the APC at both national and state levels. The meetings, it was gathered, focused on electoral viability, party cohesion, and the broader implications of Rivers State in the 2027 general election matrix.
Sources within the party noted that Fubara’s performance in office, alongside his growing political influence, weighed heavily in the decision to back his candidacy. “There was a need to avoid fragmentation and present a united front going into 2027. The governor’s name came up repeatedly as the most viable option,” a senior party figure said.
The reported backing by the presidency is also seen as a significant signal of federal interest in the political direction of Rivers State, a traditionally volatile arena with high strategic value in national politics.
While the development may calm nerves among Fubara’s supporters, it is expected to trigger fresh reactions within opposition ranks and among dissenting voices within the APC who may feel sidelined by the decision.
Efforts to obtain official confirmation from party spokespersons were unsuccessful as of press time. However, analysts say the move, if formalised, could alter existing alliances and set the tone for what promises to be an intense pre-election period in the oil-rich state.
For now, the silence from official quarters has done little to dampen the growing belief among party faithful that the road to 2027 may already be taking shape behind closed doors.
The Supreme Court of Nigeria is set to deliver judgment in two politically sensitive appeals arising from leadership disputes within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), in developments that could reshape party structures ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Checks on the apex court’s official cause list indicate that the matters, categorised under political appeals, have been scheduled for hearing on Thursday, April 30, 2026. Judgment in the ADC case, marked SC/CV/180/2026, is expected by 2:00 p.m., although the time for the PDP ruling could not be immediately ascertained.
The impending decisions come against the backdrop of heightened political tension and intensifying legal battles over control of party machinery, as key actors position themselves for the next electoral cycle.
At the centre of the ADC dispute is a protracted leadership crisis involving former Senate President, David Mark, and a rival faction led by Nafiu Bala Gombe. The contest has deepened divisions within the party, with both sides laying claim to its national leadership.
Mark is challenging the March 12 ruling of the Court of Appeal of Nigeria, which directed parties to maintain the status quo pending the determination of the substantive suit. He argues that the appellate court exceeded its jurisdiction, insisting that the matter constitutes an internal party affair not subject to judicial interference.
The appeal was argued on April 22 before a five-member panel of the apex court led by Mohammed Garba, which subsequently reserved judgment.
Although details of the PDP appeal remain sketchy, sources within the party suggest it also relates to internal leadership disputes that have fuelled factional alignments in recent months.
Political observers say the rulings could have far-reaching implications for both parties, particularly in defining the limits of judicial intervention in intra-party conflicts and determining the legitimacy of competing leadership claims.
With the 2027 elections on the horizon, the decisions are expected to either stabilise the affected parties or further inflame tensions, depending on how the apex court resolves the contentious issues.
