News
JUST IN: Security Operatives Clash with El-Rufai’s Supporters at EFCC HQ, Tear Gas Fired
Chaos erupted outside the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) headquarters in Abuja on Monday as security operatives fired tear gas to disperse crowds amid heated clashes involving supporters of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai.
The incident unfolded as El-Rufai arrived to honor an invitation for questioning over alleged corruption and financial misconduct during his tenure, including probes into approximately N432 billion in state funds. The appearance, which also marked his birthday, came after he voluntarily agreed to present himself at 10:00 a.m. following an earlier attempted arrest at Abuja’s Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport last Thursday upon return from Cairo, Egypt.
Hundreds of El-Rufai’s supporters, many from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and other loyalist groups, converged on the area in solidarity. They chanted slogans defending him and carried placards reading “El-Rufai is a citizen, not a suspect,” “We stand with El-Rufai,” and similar messages.
Rival demonstrators, including members of civil society and anti-corruption advocacy groups, gathered in opposition, demanding accountability with signs such as “El-Rufai Not Above The Law,” “Answer The Charges El-Rufai,” and “Let the law catch up.”
Tensions escalated into physical confrontations between the factions and with security personnel guarding the EFCC premises. Reports and circulating videos indicate that operatives deployed tear gas canisters to break up the crowds, with some accounts accusing authorities of using dogs and selectively restricting pro-El-Rufai groups while allowing opponents closer access. Protesters were heard vowing to return once the situation cleared, signaling ongoing determination.
El-Rufai entered the EFCC building amid the disruptions, accompanied by a large entourage, though details on the outcome of his questioning—whether detention, release on bail, or further proceedings—remain unclear at this time. The probe involves coordination with the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), where he is slated to appear later this week.
The events have intensified public debate over the anti-corruption drive, political motivations, and the handling of high-profile investigations in Nigeria, with videos of the tear-gassing and protests spreading rapidly on social media. Authorities have yet to issue an official statement on the clashes.
News
JAMB releases Thursday’s UTME results
In a statement issued by the Board on Friday, and signed by its spokesperson Fabian Benjamin, candidates were advised to check their results by sending “UTMERESULT” via SMS to 55019 or 66019, using the same phone number (SIM) used during registration.
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board has released the results of candidates who sat for the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination on Thursday, April 16, 2026, with a total of 632,788 results now available for viewing.
In a statement issued by the Board on Friday, and signed by its spokesperson Fabian Benjamin, candidates were advised to check their results by sending “UTMERESULT” via SMS to 55019 or 66019, using the same phone number (SIM) used during registration.
JAMB clarified that at this stage, candidates can only view their results, as printing options are not yet available.
It also issued a strong warning against attempts to manipulate or alter result messages received from official channels, stressing that such actions constitute a criminal offence.
The Board added that it is already taking action against offenders, revealing that some suspects are currently in custody.
“Currently, two candidates and one parent are in custody for engaging in result falsification using AI and other electronic means. Any candidate found culpable will face the full consequences of the law,” it stated.
News
Arise TV Deputy Director News Win Editor of The Year Award
The award’s: “In recognition of your exceptional editorial prowess, insightful journalism, and outstanding contributions to media excellence in Nigeria.”
Deputy Director of News, Arise TV, Ohi OIdiai, has won Editor Of The Year 2026 Awards category, courtsey of The Industry Newspaper.
In a statement, the organiser said that the award was: “In recognition of your exceptional editorial prowess, insightful journalism, and outstanding contributions to media excellence in Nigeria.”
Details later…
News
JUST IN: Tinubu Signs ₦68.32 Trillion 2026 Budget
……Extends 2025 Implementation to June 30
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has given assent to the 2026 Appropriation Bill, approving a record aggregate expenditure of ₦68.32 trillion for the fiscal year.
The President also signed legislation extending the implementation period of the 2025 budget specifically its capital component from March 31, 2026, to June 30, 2026.
According to details of the new budget, ₦4.799 trillion is allocated for statutory transfers, while debt service is pegged at ₦15.8 trillion. Recurrent expenditure stands at ₦15.4 trillion, with the Development Fund for Capital Expenditure receiving ₦32.2 trillion.
Capital spending thus accounts for approximately 50 percent of the total budget, reflecting the administration’s focus on infrastructure development, national security, economic stability, and inclusive growth.
A statement from the State House described the allocations as striking a strategic balance between mandatory obligations, debt servicing, day-to-day government operations, and productive capital investments aimed at boosting productivity and improving the quality of life for Nigerians.
President Tinubu also assented to the Appropriation (Repeal and Enactment) (Amendment) Bill, 2026, which formally extends the 2025 capital projects window. Officials said the extension will allow Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to complete advanced-stage infrastructure and development projects, improve execution rates, and deliver better value for public funds.
The 2026 Appropriation Act takes effect from April 1, 2026, paving the way for full implementation in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda.
The President has directed all MDAs to ensure disciplined, transparent, and efficient use of resources, with strict emphasis on value for money and timely project delivery.
President Tinubu commended the National Assembly for its swift consideration and passage of the budget, describing it as a demonstration of diligence, cooperation, and patriotism.
He reaffirmed the need for continued collaboration between the Executive and Legislative branches to advance national development goals.
The President further assured Nigerians of his administration’s commitment to deepening fiscal reforms, boosting revenue generation, stimulating economic growth, creating jobs, and strengthening social protection programmes.
The announcement was made by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information & Strategy, on April 17, 2026.
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