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PGF denies Uzodimma's removal, Senate reverses rules amid Oshiomhole-Akpabio clash, and other top stories
via Punch Nigeria5 min read
The Progressive Governors Forum has dismissed reports claiming the removal of Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma, as its chairman, stating the reports are false and misleading. In the Senate, lawmakers reversed controversial amendments to the Standing Orders following concerns about constitutional inconsistencies, with Senator Adams Oshiomhole criticizing Senate President Godswill Akpabio over the changes. Meanwhile, the All Progressives Congress is facing resistance in several states regarding its consensus arrangements for the 2027 elections, as some aspirants demand direct primaries. Internationally, tensions have resurfaced in the Middle East with an exchange of fire between the United States and Iran, despite US President Donald Trump's assertion that a ceasefire remained intact. Separately, former President Goodluck Jonathan stated he would consult widely before deciding on contesting the 2027 presidential election, as a Federal High Court prepares to hear a suit challenging his eligibility.
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Former England captain Wayne Rooney has expressed strong criticism regarding England manager Gareth Southgate's decision to omit Trent Alexander-Arnold from the squad for the upcoming 2026 World Cup, labeling the choice as "mind-boggling." Alexander-Arnold has not been included in Southgate's last four England squads, despite his return to regular play for Madrid after recovering from a thigh injury earlier this year. Speaking on his podcast, Rooney questioned the selection of Ben White over Alexander-Arnold, stating, "No disrespect to Ben White – I think he’s a fantastic player – but for him to be in the squad and playing ahead of Trent is mind-boggling." England's defensive options for the final home friendlies before the World Cup in Canada, Mexico, and the United States include Tino Livramento, Djed Spence, and Ezri Konsa. Rooney acknowledged that he would still prefer Reece James as England’s primary right-back if he were fit, but he also noted concerns about James's consistency. Former England defender Phil Jagielka also supported Alexander-Arnold's inclusion, suggesting that if he performs as he did for Liverpool, he should be in the squad. The discussion also touched upon England's left-back choices, with Nico O’Reilly and Lewis Hall vying for a starting position. Jagielka praised O’Reilly’s attacking prowess but highlighted his defensive vulnerabilities. Rooney, however, emphasized the importance of experience in major tournaments, stating he would trust Luke Shaw, a
China has criticized the United Kingdom's conviction of Chung Biu Yuen, a former Hong Kong policeman, for assisting a foreign intelligence service. An unnamed spokesperson for the Chinese embassy stated on Thursday that the verdict was a "political move" designed to abuse the law and manipulate the judicial process. The statement accused the UK of aiming to embolden "anti-China elements" in the UK who seek to destabilize Hong Kong and to smear the Chinese government. Yuen, also known as Bill, was found guilty by a London jury of conducting "shadow policing" operations on British soil, targeting Hong Kong dissidents and exiled pro-democracy protestors. China expressed its strong disapproval of the conviction and called on London to cease "anti-China political manipulation," warning that it would take necessary measures to safeguard its interests.
Ambassador Dunoma Ahmed, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation with India during a meeting with Abhishek Singh, the High Commissioner of India to Nigeria. The discussion, held at the Ministry’s Headquarters in Abuja, focused on deepening ties ahead of the India-Africa Forum Summit scheduled for May 2026 in New Delhi. Ahmed highlighted both countries as strategic partners sharing democratic values and aspirations for sustainable development and South-South cooperation. He emphasized the importance of upcoming BRICS and India-Africa Forum engagements for multilateral cooperation among developing countries. Nigeria expressed interest in increased Indian investments in manufacturing, agriculture, mining, renewable energy, and local value addition, as well as strengthened collaboration in security and counter-terrorism through technological cooperation and defense capacity building. Singh briefed Ahmed on preparations for the BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting from May 14 to 15 in New Delhi, and noted Nigeria's strategic importance in India’s foreign policy engagement with Africa. He also highlighted ongoing initiatives like the International Solar Alliance and Africa Solar Facility, including proposed renewable energy investments and enhanced developmental partnerships with Nigeria.
Troops from Sector 2, Joint Task Force North West Operation FANSAN YAMMA, neutralized three terrorists and recovered arms and ammunition during a fighting patrol in Zamfara State. The operation, conducted on May 7 in Kaura Namoda and Birnin Magaji Local Government Areas, is part of ongoing efforts to restrict terrorist movement. According to Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, Media Information Officer of Joint Task Force North West Operation FANSAN YAMMA, troops encountered armed terrorists at Doumbourum Village. A fierce firefight ensued, with troops overpowering the attackers, forcing them to flee after sustaining casualties. Recovered items included one AK-47 rifle, one machine gun, one locally fabricated handgun, seven rifle magazines, and 571 rounds of ammunition. No casualties were reported among the troops. The task force highlighted this operation as part of continuous efforts to combat terrorism and criminal activities in the North-West region, attributing the success to the troops' commitment, resilience, and professionalism. Residents are encouraged to provide timely and credible information to security agencies.