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Victims of a violent attack by gunmen in the nearby Rim town on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, were returning from a funeral in the Bachit community in Plateau State.  Locals say Fulani militiamen stopped the route and opened fire on the gathering, killing one young guy and injuring several others as they grieved.

 The victims had assembled in Bachit as part of a funeral procession to pay their respects.  The gunmen materialized out of nowhere and halted the parade as they returned home via Rim.  Reports from those who were there say the assailants halted the funeral procession for more than five hours.  Shots were fired at those who, despite warnings, tried to cross the road.  The amputation of a young man's hand left him in severe condition.

 From Jos, the capital of the state, one survivor, Timothy Dantong—the Liaison Officer to Governor Caleb Mutfwang for Riyom State Constituency—described the horrors.  He detailed the group's precarious situation until an armored tank escorted by security troops came to their rescue.

 The incident is part of a worrying trend of violence in Plateau State, where towns have been under siege from armed groups.  Dantong voiced significant worry about the continuous danger, stating that even on the day following the slaughter, gunmen blocked roads and assaulted residents on motorbikes in the adjacent Wereng settlement.

 The violence is not restricted to random citizens.  As another target, assailants stormed the Riyom community house of Damishi Sango, the former Minister of Sports.  The incident resulted in the death of a female relative and injury to three others, including a security guard who is presently hospitalized.  Thankfully, the former minister himself was uninjured since he was inside the home throughout the incident.

 The assaults have left communities afraid and feeling threatened.  Dantong criticized the situation, noting that his hamlet is boxed in by the extremists, unable to move freely without facing assault.  He urged security services to enhance efforts to safeguard innocent individuals and bring criminals to justice.

 Despite repeated efforts, the spokesperson for the Plateau State Police Command did not reply to calls requesting comment on the event as of the time of reporting.

 Plateau State has traditionally been a hotbed for communal and militia violence, frequently involving battles between farmers and pastoralist communities.  The current incident emphasizes the precarious security situation and the vulnerability of regular residents, particularly during serious events such as funerals.

 The use of severe violence, including shooting and amputation, suggests a troubling rise in methods adopted by armed organizations.  Such violence not only causes bodily injury but also instills fear and undermines social cohesiveness in impacted society.

 The event shows the critical need for increased security measures and community safety in Plateau State.  The presence of armored trucks and security officers was important in rescuing the trapped mourners, but the delay enabled the assailants to inflict considerable injury.

 Local leaders and government officials confront the responsibility of restoring peace and ensuring that people may continue their everyday routines without fear.  The targeting of mourners and assaults on important individuals’ residences suggest a collapse in law and order that demands concerted action.

 The assault on mourners coming from a burial in Rim village, resulting in the amputation of a youth’s limb, is a sharp reminder of the continuous insecurity in Plateau State.  It shows the vulnerability of citizens to armed militia groups and the urgent need for improved security measures.

 As the community mourns the deceased and tends to the injured, there is a rising clamor for immediate action from security services and government officials to prevent the cycle of violence and safeguard the lives and livelihoods of Plateau’s citizens.

In a major political realignment that promises to reshape Nigeria’s 2027 general elections, prominent opposition figures including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, and other influential leaders have united under the African Democratic Congress (ADC) platform to challenge incumbent President Bola Tinubu and his ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

This coalition marks a historic attempt to consolidate opposition forces that were previously fragmented, a factor widely believed to have contributed to Tinubu’s victory in the 2023 elections. The alliance aims to present a united front capable of ending Tinubu’s administration and addressing the country’s pressing challenges such as economic hardship, insecurity, and governance deficits.

The coalition’s formal adoption of the ADC as its political platform was announced in early July 2025 at the Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja. This decision came after extensive deliberations among opposition leaders who recognized the need to avoid the vote-splitting that undermined their efforts in previous elections.

Peter Obi, a former governor of Anambra State and the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, emphasized that the coalition’s choice of ADC was driven by a commitment to “competent, capable, and compassionate leadership” that prioritizes Nigerians’ welfare. Obi acknowledged the necessity of collaboration, stating, “No one group can change Nigeria alone. To dismantle the structures that keep our people in poverty and insecurity, we must build bridges, not walls, even when those bridges are uneasy.”

Alongside Obi and Atiku, the coalition includes other key figures such as former Senate President David Mark, who was appointed interim National Chairman of the ADC, and former Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola, named interim National Secretary. Their appointments reflect a strategic effort to leverage experienced political operatives to steer the coalition through the transitional phase and into the 2027 elections.

The coalition has attracted a broad spectrum of political heavyweights, including former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi and Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, both of whom have defected from the APC to join the opposition alliance. This influx of former ruling party members suggests growing dissatisfaction within the APC ranks and lends credence to the coalition’s claim of being a formidable alternative to Tinubu’s government.

The coalition’s formation also highlights the ongoing internal struggles within Nigeria’s major political parties. Both the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), led by Atiku, and the Labour Party, associated with Obi, have experienced internal crises and defections, which some analysts believe were exacerbated by external political maneuvers. By coalescing under the ADC, these leaders aim to overcome party factionalism and present a united opposition front.

The coalition’s strategy is informed by the 2023 election results, where Tinubu won with just 37% of the vote, while Atiku and Obi split the opposition vote with 29% and 25%, respectively. Analysts argue that if Atiku and Obi had combined forces then, they might have defeated Tinubu. This realization has driven their current collaboration.

Political analyst Ben Kenneth remarked, “If you look at what Atiku and Obi received in the last election, it’s clear they would have won if they had collaborated, so it’s encouraging that they have recognized their interdependence.”

However, some observers remain cautious. Analyst Sani Hamisu noted that incumbents in Nigeria and Africa generally have an electoral advantage, stating, “In Nigeria and Africa, incumbents seeking a second term rarely lose, and that’s why I think Tinubu’s prospects are better now than when he was not in office in 2019.”

Despite the optimism surrounding the coalition, there are concerns about internal cohesion and personal ambitions. Datti Baba-Ahmed, Labour Party’s 2023 vice presidential candidate, criticized the coalition’s leadership, suggesting that many members are driven by selfish interests rather than genuine commitment to unseating Tinubu. He argued that defeating Tinubu requires long-term strategic planning and sacrifice, which he doubts the coalition currently embodies.

Baba-Ahmed pointed out Tinubu’s political patience and strategic alliances over 16 years, including backing other candidates before finally securing the presidency himself. He warned “If this coalition thinks it’s business as usual, it won’t work. It has to be less about individual ambition and more about Nigeria. More action, less talk.”

The coalition’s emergence comes at a time when Nigeria faces significant economic and security challenges, fueling public discontent. The opposition coalition frames its mission as a fight for the “soul of the nation,” aiming to restore democratic principles and address widespread hunger and insecurity.

According to a spokesperson for Obi’s movement, the coalition is a united endeavor to reboot Nigeria’s political system and prevent the country from sliding into a one-party state dominated by the APC. They argue that the current administration has failed to deliver on promises, necessitating a new leadership approach focused on inclusivity and national welfare.

The coalition’s decision to use the ADC as a platform also reflects practical considerations. The All Democratic Alliance (ADA), initially preferred by the coalition, has faced delays in registration by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). Therefore, the ADC serves as an interim but fully operational vehicle for political mobilization nationwide.

With the coalition now firmly established, political watchers anticipate a fiercely contested 2027 election. The united opposition hopes to capitalize on Nigeria’s yearning for change and the APC’s internal challenges. The coalition’s leadership structure, combining seasoned politicians with grassroots support, aims to leverage lessons from past elections to improve electoral prospects.

While the formal announcement of presidential and vice-presidential candidates is still pending, speculation suggests Atiku Abubakar may run for president again, potentially with Peter Obi as his running mate. This ticket would symbolize a powerful alliance of Nigeria’s leading opposition figures, potentially reshaping the country’s political landscape.

However, the coalition must overcome significant hurdles, including managing internal ambitions, sustaining unity, and countering the entrenched advantages of incumbency. The APC, under Tinubu’s leadership, remains a formidable force with a strong political machinery and significant resources.

The alliance of Peter Obi, Atiku Abubakar, and other political heavyweights under the African Democratic Congress represents a critical development in Nigeria’s democratic journey. It signals a strategic consolidation designed to challenge President Bola Tinubu’s grip on power in 2027 by uniting fragmented opposition forces.

While the coalition faces challenges of internal cohesion and the daunting task of overcoming an incumbent with deep political roots, it embodies a collective resolve to offer Nigerians an alternative leadership vision focused on competence, compassion, and national unity.

As Nigeria approaches the 2027 elections, the political landscape is set for a dramatic contest that could redefine the country’s governance trajectory and democratic future. The success of this coalition will depend on its ability to translate unity into effective political strategy and voter mobilization against an entrenched ruling party.

Fresh violence has once again seized Adamawa State, with the current outbreak resulting in houses being set on fire and people left in dread and uncertainty.  The occurrences, which happened in the early hours of Wednesday, July 2, 2025, hit the villages of Lafiya in Lamurde Local Government Area and Boshikiri in Guyuk Local Government Area, both located near the dangerous southern border of the state.

Timeline of the Crisis
According to local sources, the violence erupted unexpectedly, with unidentified attackers assaulting thatched houses and private structures.  In Lafiya, the house of Mrs. Ododumga Kenneth was set on fire, while in Boshikiri, Mr. Nura Haruna’s apartment was damaged.  The assaults, defined by the Adamawa State Police Command as “mischief by fire,” have become a worrisome yearly event, especially during the agricultural season when conflicts over land and resources normally flare.

Eyewitnesses told scenes of mayhem as inhabitants raced to escape, staring helplessly as flames consumed their houses.  The disaster has left families uprooted and calculating their losses, with many now seeking refuge with relatives or in temporary lodgings.

Background and Recurring Tensions
Adamawa State has a long history of community confrontations, frequently founded in disagreements between adjacent groups over property, grazing routes, and historical grudges.  The most recent violence follows a history of periodic confrontations, notably between the Waja and Lunguda ethnic groups, whose villages border the impacted regions.  Over the previous six years, similar skirmishes have resulted in enormous loss of life and property, with more than 100 deaths and massive devastation of houses and farmlands.

In addition to sectarian disagreements, the area has also seen assaults from rebel groups, exacerbating the instability and making it harder for authorities to keep calm.  Local officials and people have frequently advocated for tougher security measures and more effective dispute-resolution processes.

Police Response and Ongoing Investigation
In reaction to the current assaults, the Adamawa State Police Command, headed by Commissioner Dankombo Morris, has initiated a discreet investigation and sent more troops to the affected regions in an attempt to avoid future bloodshed and catch those involved.  The police have advised locals to stay calm, cooperate with law authorities, and report any suspicious activity.

Commissioner Morris reiterated that anybody discovered encouraging violence or indulging in illegal conduct would face the full weight of the law.  He underlined the commitment of the police to restore order and protect the safety of all people.

Community Impact and Reactions
The aftermath of the conflict has left severe wounds on the afflicted communities.  Residents are dealing with the loss of their homes, and livelihoods, and a feeling of security.  Many have voiced displeasure with the repeated pattern of violence and the apparent insufficiency of government response.

A neighborhood citizen, commenting on condition of anonymity, complained, “We are tired of living in fear every year.  Our houses are devastated, and we have nowhere to go.  We need enduring peace, not just promises.”

Community leaders have called for further attempts at dialogue and reconciliation, asking both state and federal authorities to address the core causes of the dispute and give assistance to those impacted.

Broader Context and Calls for Peace
The violence in Adamawa is part of a wider trend of sectarian and insurgent-related disturbance in Nigeria’s Middle Belt area.  Despite peace treaties and the efforts of bilateral committees, disputes over land usage, ethnicity, and resource distribution continue to fuel cycles of bloodshed.

In 2022, a peace pact was struck between the warring groups, and a judicial commission of inquiry published recommendations aimed at resolving the underlying causes.  However, implementation has been sluggish, and intermittent outbursts of violence occur.

Looking Ahead
As investigations continue and security is reinforced in Lafiya and Boshikiri, the immediate focus is the safety and welfare of evacuated inhabitants.  Humanitarian groups and local authorities are being asked to offer relief items and assistance for people who have lost their houses.

The Adamawa State administration, in partnership with security forces and community leaders, confronts the task of not just restoring order but also creating true reconciliation and enduring peace in the area.

For the residents of Lafiya and Boshikiri, the hope is that this new tragedy will catalyze permanent solutions, so that the yearly cycle of violence and devastation may finally come to an end.

The tragedy happened in the early hours of Thursday, July 3, 2025, when a three-story structure unexpectedly fell on Asesi Lane, near Adeniji Adele Road, Lagos Island, leaving numerous people wounded and sparking fear among locals.

According to Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, four persons have been rescued alive from the wreckage and brought to local hospitals for urgent medical attention.  The precise number of victims is still to be established while search and rescue activities continue at the site.

Emergency response teams swiftly arrived at the site, including personnel from the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), Lagos State Ambulance Service (LASAMBUS), Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, Lagos Neighbourhood Safety Corps (LNSC), Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), and the Nigerian Police Force.  These authorities have roped off the area to guarantee safety and handle crowd control while rescue attempts are continuing.

The fall happened without notice, generating great panic in the highly populated neighborhood.  Traffic management authorities have devised temporary diversions to assist travel around the impacted zone, sending cars from Zenith Bank via Oba’s Palace to Enu Owa and other roads.

The reason for the collapse remains uncertain.  However, structural breakdowns and the elderly condition of many structures in Lagos Island are recurring worries.  Lagos has been battling with repeated building collapses, with experts and regulatory authorities warning about the urgent need for better enforcement of construction rules and improved maintenance methods.

This event adds to a troubling trend in Lagos, where building collapses have grown increasingly regular.  In 2024 alone, Lagos saw an average of one building fall every two weeks.  Over the previous 13 years, at least 90 structures have fallen in the state, resulting in more than 350 fatalities, according to the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN).

Recent months have witnessed several such catastrophes around Lagos.  For instance, in May 2025, a building under construction collapsed in Ikorodu, killing one person.  Another collapse happened in Mushin, and in April, a three-story structure fell in Ojodu-Berger, resulting in seven fatalities and multiple rescues.  In March, a similar occurrence in Lekki resulted in two deaths.

The Lagos government and emergency authorities continue to examine the latest collapse to establish the exact reason and to avoid future disasters.  Meanwhile, rescue workers continue at the scene, working feverishly to discover any further trapped victims and offer treatment to the wounded.

Residents and stakeholders are pushing for immediate improvements in construction standards, inspection protocols, and enforcement to stem the mounting toll of building collapses in Lagos, which has gained a terrible reputation as Nigeria's "building-collapse capital".

Authorities have encouraged the people to be calm and avoid the area to enable rescue efforts and maintain safety.

 In a landmark announcement that promises to transform the academic landscape of Nigerian universities, the Federal Government of Nigeria has declared its intention to award a total of N50 million in grants to outstanding varsity students across the country. This initiative, aimed at fostering academic excellence and supporting talented students, is expected to provide much-needed financial assistance to deserving undergraduates and postgraduates who have demonstrated exceptional performance in their studies.

The Minister of Education, Dr. Amina Bello, unveiled the grant scheme during a press briefing held at the Federal Ministry of Education headquarters in Abuja. According to Dr. Bello, the N50 million grant fund is part of the government’s broader strategy to enhance the quality of education, encourage innovation, and reduce the financial burden on students who excel academically but struggle with funding their education.

“This grant is designed to recognize and reward the hard work and dedication of our brightest students. We believe that investing in education is investing in the future of Nigeria,” Dr. Bello said. “By providing these grants, we aim to motivate students to strive for excellence and to ensure that financial constraints do not hinder their academic progress.”

The N50 million grant will be distributed among selected students from federal and state universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education. The selection process will be rigorous, involving a combination of academic performance, leadership qualities, and community involvement.

• Students must be enrolled full-time in accredited Nigerian tertiary institutions.
• Applicants should have maintained a minimum cumulative grade point average (CGPA) of 4.5 on a 5.0 scale or its equivalent.
• Demonstrated leadership skills or active participation in extracurricular activities.
• Proven commitment to community service or social development projects.
• Must not be beneficiaries of other major scholarship programs.

The Ministry of Education has launched an online portal where students can apply for the grant. The application window will be open for six weeks, starting from July 10, 2025. Applicants are required to submit academic transcripts, letters of recommendation from their institutions, and a personal statement outlining their academic goals and community involvement.

A panel of experts comprising university professors, education specialists, and representatives from the private sector will review the applications. The final list of beneficiaries is expected to be announced by September 15, 2025.

The grant is expected to have a significant impact on the lives of recipients. For many students, financial difficulties are a major obstacle to completing their education. The grant will help cover tuition fees, purchase of textbooks, research materials, and in some cases, living expenses.

Speaking at the briefing, Mr. Chukwuemeka Okafor, President of the National Union of Nigerian Students (NUNS), expressed optimism about the program. “This is a welcome development. Many students face tremendous challenges in financing their education. This grant will not only ease those burdens but also encourage more students to pursue academic excellence,” he said.

University administrators have also welcomed the initiative. Professor Grace Eze, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos, noted, “Supporting outstanding students financially is crucial for maintaining high academic standards. This grant will motivate students to push their limits and contribute positively to their institutions and the nation.”

The N50 million grant is part of a series of educational reforms and investments announced by the Federal Government in recent years. These include increased funding for infrastructure development in universities, enhancement of research facilities, and partnerships with international institutions to improve curriculum standards.

Education Minister Dr. Bello emphasized that the grant scheme aligns with the government’s vision to position Nigeria as a regional hub for quality education and innovation. “We are committed to creating an enabling environment where students can thrive academically and contribute to national development,” she said.

The initiative has also attracted interest from private sector stakeholders and international development partners. Several corporations have pledged to collaborate with the government to expand the grant program in the future.

Mr. Tunde Adebayo, CEO of a leading Nigerian tech firm, remarked, “Investing in education is investing in human capital. We are eager to support programs that nurture talent and innovation. This grant scheme is a step in the right direction, and we look forward to partnering with the government to scale it up.”

International organizations such as UNESCO and the World Bank have commended Nigeria’s efforts to improve access to quality education. They have indicated a willingness to provide technical assistance and funding to complement the government’s initiatives.

While the announcement has been widely praised, experts caution that the success of the grant program depends on transparent implementation and effective monitoring.

Dr. Ifeoma Nwosu, an education policy analyst, pointed out, “The selection process must be fair and merit-based. There must be mechanisms to prevent favoritism and ensure that the most deserving students benefit. Additionally, continuous evaluation of the program’s impact is necessary to make improvements.”

There are also calls for the government to expand the program to include students in private universities and those pursuing vocational and technical education, which are vital for Nigeria’s economic diversification.

At the University of Ibadan, students have expressed excitement about the grant opportunity. Adaeze Okeke, a third-year microbiology student, shared, “This grant could change my life. I have been struggling to pay for my research materials, and this support would allow me to focus more on my studies and less on financial worries.”

Similarly, Musa Ibrahim, a final-year engineering student at Ahmadu Bello University, said, “Knowing that the government recognizes and rewards academic excellence motivates me to work even harder. I hope many students will benefit from this program.”

The Federal Government’s announcement of a N50 million grant for outstanding varsity students marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s quest to improve educational outcomes. By directly supporting talented students, the government is not only alleviating financial barriers but also fostering a culture of academic excellence and innovation.

As the application process gets underway, stakeholders across the education sector will be watching closely to ensure the program’s success. If implemented effectively, this grant scheme could serve as a model for future educational funding initiatives and contribute substantially to Nigeria’s socio-economic development.

For more information on the grant application and eligibility, students and interested parties can visit the official Ministry of Education website at www.education.gov.ng or contact the Ministry’s helpdesk via email at grantsupport@education.gov.ng.

In a decisive political move that is set to reshape the landscape ahead of the 2027 elections, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has firmly declared it is “not here to play politics,” signaling a no-nonsense approach as the coalition officially adopts the party for the upcoming electoral contest. This bold stance comes amid growing anticipation and intense political maneuvering across the country, as parties and coalitions jockey for position in what promises to be a fiercely contested election year.

The African Democratic Congress, once considered a minor player in the national political arena, has steadily built momentum over the past few years. With a growing grassroots base and a reputation for advocacy on issues such as social justice, economic reform, and anti-corruption, the ADC has attracted a diverse coalition of supporters. This coalition includes youth activists, civil society groups, and disenchanted voters from across the political spectrum.

The party’s recent adoption by a broader coalition marks a significant milestone. It reflects a strategic alignment of interests among several smaller parties and influential political figures who see the ADC as a viable vehicle for change. The coalition’s decision to rally behind the ADC underscores a shared commitment to challenge the entrenched political establishment and offer Nigerians a credible alternative.

At the center of this political storm is the ADC’s national chairman, who has emerged as a formidable figure in Nigerian politics. Known for his candid and uncompromising style, he has repeatedly emphasized that the ADC is “not here to play politics” but to deliver meaningful change. His rhetoric resonates with many Nigerians frustrated by decades of political stagnation, corruption, and ineffective governance.

In a recent press conference, the ADC chairman outlined the party’s vision and strategy for the 2027 elections. “We are here to serve the people, not to engage in the usual political games,” he said. “Our coalition is built on principles of integrity, accountability, and inclusiveness. We will not be intimidated by the old guard or distracted by petty politicking. Our focus is on delivering real solutions to the challenges facing our nation.”

The coalition that has adopted the ADC as its flagship party is a diverse and dynamic alliance. It includes smaller political parties that have struggled to gain traction independently, as well as influential community leaders and activists. Together, they represent a broad spectrum of Nigerian society, united by a common desire to see a new kind of leadership emerge.

Key members of the coalition have expressed optimism about their chances in the 2027 elections. They argue that the political landscape is ripe for change, with many voters eager to move beyond the traditional parties that have dominated Nigerian politics for decades. The coalition’s platform focuses on issues such as economic empowerment, job creation, education reform, and anti-corruption measures.

Despite the enthusiasm surrounding the ADC and its coalition, the road to 2027 will not be without obstacles. The Nigerian political environment is notoriously complex and often fraught with challenges ranging from electoral irregularities to intense competition among parties.

One significant challenge will be navigating the electoral system, which critics argue favors established parties with deep-rooted networks and resources. The ADC coalition will need to build a robust campaign infrastructure, mobilize supporters across the country, and ensure that their candidates meet the stringent requirements for election.

Moreover, the coalition must contend with skepticism from some quarters, where doubts remain about the ability of a relatively new political force to effect real change. The ADC leadership has acknowledged these concerns but remains confident that their message and commitment will resonate with voters.

The announcement of the coalition’s adoption of the ADC has generated considerable buzz in the media and among the public. Political analysts have noted the significance of the move, suggesting it could disrupt the traditional two-party dominance and introduce fresh dynamics into the electoral process.

Social media platforms have been abuzz with discussions, with many young Nigerians expressing support for the ADC’s tough stance and vision for change. Hashtags related to the party and its leadership have trended, reflecting a growing grassroots enthusiasm. However, some commentators have urged caution, reminding the public that political promises must be matched by concrete actions. They stress the importance of holding all political actors accountable and ensuring that the 2027 elections are free, fair, and transparent.

The ADC’s rise and the coalition’s formation come at a time of significant political and economic challenges for Nigeria. The country faces pressing issues such as inflation, unemployment, insecurity, and infrastructural deficits. Many citizens are disillusioned with the status quo and are seeking new leadership that can address these problems effectively.

In this context, the ADC’s message of “not playing politics” but focusing on tangible outcomes strikes a chord. The party’s emphasis on integrity and accountability addresses widespread concerns about corruption and governance failures.

Furthermore, the coalition’s inclusive approach aims to bridge ethnic, regional, and social divides, promoting national unity and cohesion. This is particularly important in a country as diverse as Nigeria, where political fragmentation often exacerbates tensions.

As the 2027 elections approach, the ADC and its coalition will likely intensify their campaign efforts. This will include grassroots mobilization, policy advocacy, and strategic alliances. The party’s leadership has indicated plans to engage with a wide range of stakeholders, including youth groups, women’s organizations, and business leaders.

Observers will be watching closely to see how the coalition navigates the challenges of candidate selection, campaign financing, and voter outreach. The ability to present a united front and maintain discipline will be critical to their success.

The ruling parties and other opposition groups are also expected to respond vigorously, making the political contest highly competitive. The ADC’s tough talk signals that it is prepared to stand its ground and fight for its vision of Nigeria’s future.

The adoption of the African Democratic Congress by a broad coalition ahead of the 2027 elections marks a pivotal moment in Nigerian politics. With a leadership that talks tough and a commitment to serious governance, the ADC is positioning itself as a formidable contender on the national stage.

While challenges remain, the party’s clear message that it is “not here to play politics” resonates with many Nigerians eager for change. As the political drama unfolds, the ADC coalition’s journey will be one to watch closely, offering hope for a new era of leadership and progress in Nigeria.

No less than 240 students of Medical Laboratory Science, Imo State University, Owerri (IMSU), have recorded 100% pass, with no failure, at the First Professional Examination being organized by the Medical Laboratory Council of Nigeria.

The breaking good news was shared by the Head of Medical Laboratory Science Department of Imo State University, Rev. Prof. Nnaemeka J. C. Okolie, during an interview with some journalists in his office at IMSU, on Wednesday, July 2, 2025.

He stated that "without taking this examination, graduates of Medical Laboratory Science would not be recognized by Medical Laboratory Council of Nigeria (MLSCN) and can not be given License to practice after their graduation. So, this examination is very necessary for the students to be inducted into the Medical Laboratory Council of Nigeria"

Going down memory lane, the Head of the Department recalled that, before the current Vice-Chancellor, Professor U.U. Chukwumaeze, SAN, assumed office, there were a lot of challenges on the ground in the Medical Laboratory Science Department, which included a backlog of students who were not indexed and were not recognized by the council. 

This was because, what has been happening in the past years was that, previous heads of department were selecting some students for indexing, leaving a backlog of other students not indexed. This accumulated to about 1,000 unindexed, which included those who were eligible to be indexed at that time.

The Vice-Chancellor saw it as a challenge and started working hard to ensure that all eligible Med Lab Science students are indexed. So, it took a lot of struggle, including flying in and out of Abuja, up to six times. On one of the occasions, the Vice-Chancellor went to Med Lab Council's office in Abuja to see them by himself.

According to the Head of Department, "the VC did all he could with his influence to ensure success. They promised that they would look into the case, so we came back. And after a protracted silence from the council, eventually, they decided to index all our eligible students ".

He therefore, thanked the Vice-Chancellor for such a record-breaking achievement, adding that it wouldn't have been possible without him, stressing that all eligible students of Medical Laboratory Science of Imo State University have been indexed, which has never happened since the inception of Med Lab Science at IMSU, describing the feat as a wonderful breakthrough.

Onyekachi A. Nwaozor, is 

The Ag. Public Relations Officer, of

Imo State University, Owerri.