By Yusuf Danjuma Yunusa

The Supreme Court has nullified the national convention held by the Turaki-Led faction of the Peoples Democratic Party in Ibadan, Oyo State, on November 15 and 16, 2025.

In a split judgment delivered on Thursday, three of the five justices of the apex court ruled that the appeal brought before it by the faction led by Tanimu Turaki lacked merit.

Delivering the lead majority judgment, Justice Stephen Adah held that the appellants acted in violation of a subsisting order of the Federal High Court which restrained them from proceeding with the planned convention.

The court consequently invalidated the convention conducted in Ibadan.

Details later.

By Yusuf Danjuma Yunusa

President Bola Tinubu has approved the removal of the Authority Chief Executive of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority, Mr Saidu Mohammed.

He has also nominated Mr Rabiu Abdullahi Umar as the new Chief Executive of the agency, subject to confirmation by the Senate.

The announcement was contained in a State House press release issued on Wednesay by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.

“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, has approved the removal of Mr Saidu Mohammed as the Authority Chief Executive of the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA), in the public interest,” Onanuga said.

According to the statement, the decision was taken in line with the provisions of the Petroleum Industry Act 2021 and is aimed at strengthening regulatory effectiveness in the midstream and downstream petroleum sector, in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda.

Umar is a seasoned executive with over 25 years of experience across the energy, manufacturing and infrastructure sectors. He holds a degree in Accounting from Bayero University and is also an alumnus of Harvard Business School.

Pending Senate confirmation of the nominee, the most senior official in the NMDPRA will oversee the affairs of the authority in an acting capacity.

The Presidency thanked the outgoing chief executive for his service and wished him success in his future endeavours, while reiterating its commitment to appointing competent leadership in key regulatory institutions.

“The President remains committed to ensuring capable leadership in key regulatory institutions to advance energy security, sector reform, and sustainable economic growth,” the statement added.

The change in leadership at the NMDPRA followed the exit of its pioneer Chief Executive, Farouk Ahmed, who stepped aside in December 2025.

He was subsequently replaced by Saidu Mohammed, who assumed office as Authority Chief Executive of the NMDPRA.

By Yusuf Danjuma Yunusa

The Federal Government has declared Friday a public holiday to celebrate this year’s International Workers Day.

Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, announced this on behalf of the Federal Government.

A statement signed by the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Dr Magdalene Ajani said the minister congratulated workers across the country on this year’s celebration.

“The Minister commended Nigerian workers for their hard work and dedication to national development. He noted that their efforts are essential for the nation’s growth and prosperity.

“He encouraged workers to embrace patriotism, productivity, and dedication to their duties. These qualities are crucial for sustainable development.

“The Federal Government of Nigeria is committed to supporting the welfare and security of all workers and creating a favorable environment for economic growth.

“While wishing workers a happy celebration, the Minister urged all Nigerians to remain peaceful and law-abiding. He encouraged everyone to use this occasion to reflect on the importance of unity and hard work in building the nation”, the statement added.