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No Leadership Change, ACF Clears Air On Speculation.

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The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has dismissed reports claiming a change in its leadership, describing them as false and unconstitutional.

In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Prof. Muhammad-Baba, and made available to journalists, the forum said it had become aware of an alleged announcement concerning a leadership change, stressing that the claim was entirely untrue.

He noted that the purported action behind the announcement had no legal or constitutional basis, adding that the Chairman of the ACF, Mr. Mike Mamman Mike Osuman, SAN, OFR, had authorised a disclaimer to clarify the situation and prevent misunderstanding among members of the forum and the public.

According to the statement, the leadership of the ACF neither approved, discussed, nor was aware of any such change, insisting that the announcement should be regarded as null and void.

For clarity, the forum explained that the authority to approve leadership matters rests solely with its General Assembly, which has not yet convened to fill any positions.

It further stated that, under Section 8(6) of the ACF Constitution, the Board of Trustees only provides general guidance and does not possess the power to effect leadership changes.

The forum also clarified that the creation of committees lies within the mandate of the National Executive Committee (NEC), noting that any so-called constitution review or leadership selection committee operating outside this structure is not recognised.

It added that the last Leadership Selection Committee concluded its assignment in 2023 and has since been dissolved, with no reconstitution yet completed, although steps are currently underway to do so.

The statement warned that any individual or group making announcements outside the approved constitutional framework should be disregarded, as such actions are irregular and not binding on the organisation.

It also reaffirmed that only the National Publicity Secretary or authorised deputies are permitted to speak on behalf of the forum.

Reiterating stability within its ranks, the ACF said Mallam Murtala Aliyu remains in office as Secretary General until a successor is duly appointed through established procedures.

While expressing regret over the need to issue the clarification, the forum maintained that no leadership crisis exists, though it acknowledged awareness of attempts to cause internal disruption.

The leadership urged members to remain calm, law-abiding, and await further official communication from the forum.

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NBA ELECTION SHOWDOWN: Osigwe Defies AGF, Declares Attorney General Powerless To Stop Polls!.

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July 18, 2026

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Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) President, Afam Osigwe (SAN), has firmly rejected recent calls from the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), to postpone the association’s national elections. Osigwe asserted that the AGF lacks the legal authority to dictate or alter the NBA’s electoral process, warning that doing so would undermine the independence of the legal profession and breach the association’s constitutional framework.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The controversy stems from the AGF’s advice that the NBA suspend its July 18, 2026, polls, dissolve its current Election Committee, and implement the National Identification Number (NIN) for voter verification. During an interview on Arise News this Friday, Osigwe clarified that while the AGF’s opinions are noted, they are not binding directives. He emphasized that the NBA is governed by its own Constitution, the Legal Practitioners Act, and other established regulatory instruments—none of which grant the AGF power to intervene in the association’s internal affairs.

“Suggesting that he [the AGF] has the power to postpone our elections would imply that the NBA is merely a department under the Office of the Attorney General,” Osigwe stated. He noted that while the Bar is open to considering advice, it cannot comply with “must-do” directives that conflict with its governing laws.

Upholding Constitutional Eligibility and Opposing External Impositions

Osigwe also addressed ongoing debates regarding zoning and consensus candidates. He maintained that the NBA Constitution clearly defines the criteria for presidential aspirants, requiring candidates to be at least 15 years post-call, have served on the National Executive Council for at least two years, and be fully up-to-date with their practice fees and branch dues for the preceding three years.

He rejected attempts by external interest groups to force their preferred candidates upon the association, calling such actions illogical. “They accuse the Bar of various things and turn around to accuse others of trying to impose a candidate, when they are actually the ones imposing a candidate,” he remarked. Osigwe underscored that any member who meets the constitutional requirements is entitled to run for office, regardless of endorsements from external bodies.

Commitment to a Transparent Process

Regarding the upcoming election, the NBA President defended the inclusivity of the race, noting that the presence of a female candidate highlights the association’s commitment to equal opportunity.

To ensure credibility and transparency, Osigwe confirmed that the NBA has invited international and civil society observers—including the EU and Yiaga—to monitor the process. Addressing skeptics who fear electoral malpractice, he insisted that all concerns have been thoroughly addressed to build trust.

“Everything is in place, and the electoral body is ready to conduct it,” Osigwe said. He concluded by urging all aspirants to focus on the polls rather than seeking delays: “Go out there and test your popularity; don’t drag the association down or tarnish people’s images. May the best man or woman win.”

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NAIRA WATCH: The Dollar Holds Steady at ₦1,378.34 As Markets Open Today!.

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3 hours ago

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July 18, 2026

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  • At the Lagos parallel market, Bureau De Change (BDC) sources reported that the dollar was selling for ₦1425 and buying at ₦1412.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

    • It is important to note that these figures may fluctuate, and the actual rate you encounter when buying or selling forex can vary from these prices.

    Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Rates

    • The CBN rate for the dollar against the naira recorded a high of ₦1382 and a low of ₦1378.

    Important Regulatory Note

    • The Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) does not officially recognize the parallel market. The bank has instructed individuals seeking to conduct foreign exchange transactions to utilize their respective banks instead.

    Source:

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NATION IN MOURNING: Former Minister And Science Icon, Turner Isoun, Passes Away.

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3 hours ago

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July 18, 2026

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Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, has mourned the passing of Professor Turner Isoun, a former Minister of Science and Technology, honoring him as a distinguished scholar whose legacy in education, science, and national growth remains lasting. Professor Isoun, a renowned expert in veterinary medicine, passed away in Abuja on July 15 at the age of 87.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Governor Diri, through his Chief Press Secretary, Daniel Alabrah, highlighted several aspects of the late statesman’s life and career:

  • Academic and Public Service Excellence: Governor Diri described Isoun as an intellectual giant whose contributions impacted both academia and the public sector. As the pioneer Vice-Chancellor of the Rivers State University of Science and Technology, he was credited with establishing a strong foundation for the institution.

  • Scientific and Technological Leadership: During his tenure as minister from 2000 to 2007 under President Olusegun Obasanjo, Isoun championed significant reforms. He was instrumental in creating the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and Galaxy Backbone Plc. Additionally, his leadership was central to Nigeria’s early milestones in space technology, including the launch of satellites like NigeriaSat-1 and NigComSat-1R.

  • Commitment to the Niger Delta: Isoun was deeply involved in the socio-political development of the Niger Delta. He served as the Ijaw National Congress Central Zone Chairman and was a key advocate for the creation of Bayelsa State in 1996.

Governor Diri extended his sympathies to the Isoun family, the Odi community, and the broader Ijaw nation, encouraging them to find solace in the professor’s remarkable life of service and dedication to national progress.

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