The Osun State Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party, Sunday Bisi, has declared that the defection of members of the party to the All Progressives Congress will not stop Governor Ademola Adeleke from winning his re-election in 2026.

Bisi described the defections as “a storm in a teacup”, stating that almost every sector of society was in support of Adeleke’s second-term bid.

The chairman’s statement came amid reports that the movement of some PDP members to the APC could jeopardise Adeleke’s chances in 2026.

Over the past month, several members of the PDP, including a current member of the House of Representatives representing Oriade/Obokun Federal Constituency, Wole Oke, have defected to the APC. 

A former chieftain of the party, Felix Ogunwale, who represented Osun Central in the Senate between 2003 and 2007, along with some of Oke’s followers, also dumped the PDP.

Amid the defections, the three PDP senators in the National Assembly endorsed President Bola Tinubu for a second term.

These developments have generated concerns among PDP members, while the APC has continued to mock the party. 

However, speaking with our correspondent on Wednesday, the PDP chairman said Adeleke enjoyed the support of the majority of the people of the state, expressing confidence that they would vote massively for the governor in 2026.

“The defections are not a serious matter; they are a storm in a teacup. If you talk about defection, you can reference the movement of the Delta State governor and the entire PDP structure in that state to the APC.”

I acknowledge that as a real defection. The defections in Osun cannot affect us in any way,” he said.

“Adeleke is doing well in terms of infrastructure and social programmes for the people of the state. He has been delivering good governance, and people will appreciate him for that by re-electing him in 2026.”

The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission has said it will probe the tragic and controversial death of Kelechi, a 39-year-old Nigerian man from Awka North, Anambra State, who reportedly died after a violent encounter with Swiss police in Lausanne, Switzerland.

A viral video circulating on X (Twitter) shows the moment Kelechi was pinned to the ground by a Swiss police officer, crying out in pain and shouting, “You’re hurting me.”

The video has sparked outrage among Nigerians on social media.

An X user, @ChuksEricE, who shared the footage, alleged that Kelechi died after the incident.

Another user, Somto Okonkwo, described Kelechi as a “hardworking Igbo man” and claimed he was “crying out for help while the officer pressed down on his neck.”

He added that the deceased left behind three young children in Nigeria.

Kelechi reportedly collapsed and died at the police station less than an hour after being taken into custody.

Swiss authorities, in a statement reported by AFP, claimed the incident occurred during a routine police check related to suspected drug activity.

According to them, Kelechi fled the scene but was later apprehended.

They further stated that he became unwell during questioning and died despite emergency resuscitation efforts.

The Public Prosecutor’s Office in the Vaud region of Switzerland has since launched a criminal investigation into the incident.

An autopsy and other forensic examinations are currently underway, with crime scene investigators and medical experts involved in the probe.

Meanwhile, in an interview with Saturday PUNCH, NIDCOM’s Director of Media, Public Relations, and Protocols, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, described the incident as very sad and unfortunate.

“This is not something we are going to condone. Irrespective of whatever the person may have done, he should have been given fair treatment,” he said.

“If we are able to gather all the necessary information surrounding his death, we will issue an official statement. Also, if the family can reach out to us or send a formal petition, we will be in a better position to know what happened.”

The commission assured the public that it is actively working to get to the bottom of the matter.

Simon Ekpa, the Nigerian separatist leader, has appeared before the Päijät-Häme District Court in Finland on Friday, May 30, as the Finnish government began his trial on terrorism charges.

Recall that in November 2024, the Finnish government arrested Ekpa on suspicion of terror-related activities, including incitement to violence and terrorism financing.

He was accused of using social media to incite violence and causing unrest in the South-east region in Nigeria, as part of his secessionist agitation for Biafra.

According to the prosecutors who are demanding a six-year prison sentence for Ekpa, his activities may constitute terrorism under Finnish law.

“We have a great deal of evidence regarding this individual’s online activity and communications,” said state prosecutor Sampsa Hakala.

During interrogations, Ekpa denied ordering weapons for pro-Biafra groups and other allegations against him.  

The dual Finnish-Nigerian citizen is known for his affiliation with a faction of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), a separatist group agitating for the independence of Nigeria’s southeast, a region that experienced a devastating civil war between 1967 and 1970. 

Ekpa has also served as a local representative of Finland’s conservative National Coalition Party in Lahti, where he held a position on the city’s public transport committee.

Stanley Nwabali, the Super Eagles goalkeeper has announced the burial arrangements for his late parents, Chief Nwabali Godspower Onyekamu and Mrs. Grace Nwabali (née Mmai), describing the period as one of profound and unimaginable grief.

In a message shared alongside the burial poster on his Instagram on Friday, Nwabali expressed the depth of his pain.

“About time to put my dad and mom to rest. Something I never imagined doing so soon at this point of my life. Difficult to believe I will never set my eyes on you again.

“It’s a different kind of pain I never wish for my enemy. Thank you for everything,” he wrote.

The leader of Arewa Summit International, Dr. Bashir Lamido, has called for the South West to produce all presidential candidates for the 2027 elections, while advocating that the South East should take the same opportunity in 2031.

Speaking during a high-level political dialogue on zoning and national cohesion held in Abuja on Friday, Dr. Lamido emphasised that this rotational approach would promote unity, fairness, and long-term political stability across Nigeria.

“For the sake of equity, national integration, and the stability of our democracy, we believe the South West should present all presidential candidates in 2027. Then, come 2031, the South East – which has long awaited its turn – should be given the full platform to produce the next president,” Lamido stated.

Arewa Summit International, under Dr. Lamido’s leadership, has become a leading northern-based political think tank known for its pan-Nigerian vision and commitment to bridging regional divides.

He further stressed that the proposal is not about excluding any group, but rather about setting a national precedent for justice and inclusion.

“This is not just about politics. It’s about healing, trust-building, and showing every Nigerian that they belong to the same nation. People may ask, what about the north? It should be the turn of the north in 2031. They forget that the North has spent more years leading the country than any other region.

“It is just right to balance the leadership across the regions. We are only hoping that in 2031, the South East should be extended same national compliments as we are hopeful to do for South West in 2027,” he said.

Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has once again hinted at his defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), subtly signaling a shift towards the All Progressives Congress (APC) without explicitly naming his new political destination. 

During a state banquet in Uyo on Thursday night, held to mark his second year in office, Governor Eno reiterated his fondness for the PDP but strongly suggested that it was time to “progressively move” on. 

“I respect our party, the PDP. I love the PDP. But we all know the way things are,” Eno said to the gathering. “So, whatever happens, wherever the journey of life takes me, I will always love you. We’ve built strong friendships, and we will always keep them.”

Since the start of his campaign to rally support for his political transition, the governor has carefully avoided explicitly confirming the APC as his next political home, despite openly aligning with President Bola Tinubu and Senate President Godswill Akpabio ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Governor Eno continued, “If you have anything to do, invite me—I will come. I will always be there. But it’s time to progressively move. That again will not affect anything in this state. We do not govern based on political affiliations.”

Calling for unity among the political class, he added, “I would love to see all our party leaders seated together like this, across party lines. We must always put Akwa Ibom first. We know we have Akwa Ibomites in the PDP, APC, YPP, and IPAC.

“What matters most is that there is food, security, and welfare for our people. The ARISE Agenda provides for all these.”

Governor Eno concluded with a message of unity: “Whenever anyone flies into Akwa Ibom, please drop your party tag and know you are flying into a united Akwa Ibom.”

For many migrants, moving to the United Kingdom (UK) can be a life-changing decision—especially for those seeking better job opportunities, higher income, and a more stable living environment.”

For many Nigerians and other migrants, the UK continues to be a top destination thanks to its structured immigration pathways, especially for skilled workers.

Whether you are in the medical field, technology, finance, law, or engineering, there are high-paying jobs that not only offer financial rewards but also come with long-term career growth and stability.

In this article, highlighted are five of the highest paying professions in the UK that migrants can take up—roles that are not only in high demand but also come with clear and attainable entry routes for qualified individuals.

1. Medical Practitioners (Consultants and Specialist Doctors)

Doctors remain one of the most respected and well-paid professionals in the UK, and the country is in serious need of them. Especially in areas like psychiatry, anaesthetics, and radiology, the NHS is constantly on the lookout for qualified doctors from abroad, including Nigeria. Many are already earning over £100,000 per year, depending on their level and specialty. The process is quite straightforward once you understand it. After passing the PLAB exams and registering with the General Medical Council (GMC), a Nigerian doctor can work legally and enjoy the benefits of a stable, well-paying career. The UK government even has a special visa for healthcare workers, making it easier to relocate. If you are medically trained, the opportunities are real and rewarding.

2. Information Technology (IT) Specialists and Software Engineers

Tech is the new oil, and in the UK, it is booming. From software development to cybersecurity and cloud computing, Nigerian tech professionals are finding their feet and cashing out in pounds. Skilled engineers can earn between £60,000 and £120,000 yearly, especially if they land roles in tech-focused cities like London or Manchester. The UK has made it easier for foreign tech workers to migrate through the Skilled Worker Visa and the Global Talent Visa. If you are good with code, systems, or networks, and have the right experience or portfolio, tech is one of the easiest and fastest ways to earn big abroad.

3. Financial Analysts and Investment Bankers

The UK, especially London, is one of the world’s financial headquarters. Banks, investment firms, and financial consultancies are always on the lookout for fresh and smart minds, especially those with global or emerging markets knowledge like Nigeria. Positions like financial analysts, risk managers, and investment bankers often come with salaries that start from around £60,000 and can easily cross into six figures with bonuses and experience. If you have a finance background, plus certifications like CFA or ACCA, you stand a good chance. Nigerian finance professionals are already making waves in places like Canary Wharf and beyond.

4. Legal Professionals (Solicitors and Barristers in High-Demand Fields)

While the UK legal system can seem a bit rigid, it is opening up more and more to foreign-trained lawyers, especially in specialised areas like corporate law and intellectual property. Nigerian lawyers who qualify through the Solicitors Qualifying Exam (SQE) or recognised foreign routes can get roles that pay between £70,000 and over £100,000 in top firms. The trick is to specialise and be ready to take up challenging roles. Law firms are now more willing to hire people with international experience, especially when it comes to cases that cross borders. If you have the legal brain and the drive, the UK is ready for you.

5. Engineering Professionals (Petroleum, Civil, and Electrical Engineers)

Engineers are needed everywhere in the UK, particularly those with experience in civil, petroleum, or electrical work. With the country investing heavily in infrastructure and energy projects, many companies are bringing in foreign talent to fill the gap. Nigerian engineers with strong experience and qualifications can earn between £50,000 and £90,000 annually, and even more if they become chartered. Many firms are ready to sponsor visas for skilled workers, and bodies like the Engineering Council UK recognise a good number of international credentials. If you’re in the engineering field, this is your chance to build a solid career while helping shape the UK’s future.

A resident of Bauchi State, Khamis Musa Darazo, has donated a ram to President Bola Tinubu as this year’s Eid-el-Kabir approaches to express his joy upon receiving news of the Kolmani Oil licence.

Recall that Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Senator Heineken Lokpobiri announced that President Tinubu has granted regulatory approvals for the issuance of all critical licences required for the Kolmani Integrated Development Project. 

Kolmani Integrated Development Project is a multibillion-dollar oil exploration initiative located between Bauchi and Gombe states.

Khamis, a long-time admirer of President Tinubu, once sacrificed his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) allowance during the President’s campaign and even named his daughter after the President’s late mother.

Speaking to journalists on Friday in Bauchi, Khamis explained that the gesture was a reflection of his family’s deep respect and admiration for the President and his family.

Khamis emphasised that the donation symbolises his gratitude for the recently granted Kolmani Oil License, which he believes will bring economic growth and opportunities to Northern Nigeria and beyond.

“I am forever grateful to President Tinubu for this opportunity. The Kolmani Oil License will bring more business opportunities to the entire North and Nigeria at large, and I want to show my appreciation in the best way possible. Donating a Sallah ram to the President is my way of saying thank you,” he stated.

The search and rescue operations team at the scene of the flood disaster in Mokwa, Niger state said no fewer than 115 more bodies have been recovered.

Director General of the state emergency Management agency, Abdullahi Baba Arah confirmed this to LEADERSHIP, through the agency’s Public Relations Officer, Ibrahim Hussain.

Abdullahi said contrary to the figures being bandied on some media outlets, “the figure as it stands now is that we have 115 bodies recovered, but the search and rescue is ongoing.”

Details later….

Former Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Kayode Fayemi has disclosed that nearly six months into the fiscal year, the federal government has not released funds for the 2025 national budget.

Speaking at a media and civil society roundtable on Friday in Abuja, Fayemi stated that no federal ministry, department, or agency (MDA) had received any allocation from the budget. 

“June is in two days. Yet not one naira of the 2025 budget has been released to any MDA,” he said, describing the situation as a troubling disconnect between the National Assembly’s appropriation process and the executive arm’s implementation.

The roundtable, themed: “The Relevance of the FOI Act in Electoral Transparency and Accountability,” was organised by the International Press Centre (IPC) with support from the European Union under its Support to Democratic Governance in Nigeria (EU-SDGN) Phase II programme, marking the 14th anniversary of the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act. 

Fayemi used the occasion to reflect on Nigeria’s democratic journey and the continuing push for openness in governance. 

He commended the foundational role played by civil society organisations such as the Civil Liberties Organisation (CLO), Media Rights Agenda (MRA), and the IPC. 

“This work is a long struggle in gestation,” Fayemi said. “CLO provided the space from which MRA and others emerged. Even IPC started from that push for accountability.”

The former Ekiti State Governor recounted publicly declaring his assets in 2010 during his time as governor, even when some advised against it. “I asked: what is ‘public’ about a secret asset declaration?” he said.

Fayemi credited the FOI Act with helping to expose “padded budgets, inserted projects, and ghost contracts,” citing recent revelations by civic tech platform BudgIT. However, he cautioned that transparency alone was not sufficient. 

“You can have information without transparency, and transparency without accountability. Power knows the truth—it just chooses when to use it,” he said.

Highlighting reforms under his leadership, he pointed to the State Fiscal Transparency, Accountability and Sustainability (SFTAS) programme, which he chaired as head of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum.

Dr Fayemi noted that Ekiti was one of the first states to publish contract and procurement data online.

“Under SFTAS, we encouraged peer review among states. You could go on the Ekiti procurement portal and see who got what contract, for how much, and under what terms,” he said.

In his welcome remarks, IPC Executive Director, Mr. Lanre Arogundade, described the roundtable as a strategic platform for assessing how the FOI Act can enhance democratic governance, transparency, and accountability.

He also highlighted that the event marked the 14th anniversary of the Ekiti State FOI Law, which was enacted during Fayemi’s tenure as governor, making the state the first to domesticate the federal law.

“Ekiti State remains the first to have a state-level FOI law after the National Assembly passed it,” he said.

He also announced the belated presentation of a 2021 IPC FOI Champions Award to Fayemi in recognition of that milestone.

While noting the FOI Act’s impact, Arogundade pointed out its underutilisation by journalists, civil society groups, and citizens.

“The relatively low usage of the FOI Act is still a concern. But it remains a critical tool for transparency, especially in monitoring political financing and electoral processes,” he said.

Arogundade reaffirmed IPC’s commitment to using the EU-SDGN programme to strengthen media professionalism, counter disinformation, and support inclusive electoral coverage.

“We hope this roundtable will not only generate dialogue but also produce actionable steps and measurable outcomes to improve FOI compliance across Nigeria,” he added.