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The Oyo State Government has lifted the curfew earlier imposed across 10 local government areas following the recent kidnapping incident in Oriire Local Government Area.

The decision brings an end to the movement restrictions introduced as part of efforts to strengthen security and support ongoing operations aimed at addressing the situation.

The government had initially announced a 16-hour curfew in the affected areas before extending the measure by an additional day on Thursday as authorities intensified security surveillance.

With the curfew now suspended, residents have been cleared to resume their normal daily and economic activities.

The state government expressed appreciation to residents for their patience, cooperation and understanding throughout the period of restriction, noting that public support played a significant role in maintaining order.

Authorities also assured citizens that security agencies remain on alert and are continuing efforts to ensure lasting peace and bring the kidnapping incident to a complete resolution.

Residents were encouraged to remain vigilant and continue supporting security agencies with timely information to sustain safety across the affected communities.

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The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has suffered another major setback in Bayelsa State as several of its key members, including a vice chairman and a House of Assembly candidate, defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC), barely 24 hours after a Federal High Court nullified the party’s registration.

The defectors announced their decision on Thursday, citing internal crises, alleged injustice, and dissatisfaction with the leadership of the NDC.

Leading the group was Deacon Felix Wilson, the winner of the NDC House of Assembly primary election for Sagbama Constituency II. Wilson, alongside his supporters, was officially received into the APC by Bayelsa State Deputy Governor, Dr. Peter Akpe, at the Government House.

Speaking during the event, Wilson explained that his decision to leave the NDC followed what he described as an unfair substitution of his name after he had emerged victorious in the party’s primary election.

According to him, his candidacy was replaced with that of Michael Magbisa, whom he claimed to have defeated during the primary, leaving him with no option but to part ways with the party.

“I am a candidate for Sagbama Constituency II under the NDC. I want the people of my constituency to know that I have now returned to my former political family, the APC, which is a party of progress,” Wilson said.

He added that he joined the APC together with his long-time supporters and expressed appreciation for the warm reception they received from the party. He also pledged to contribute to the party’s growth and work towards its electoral success.

Also announcing his defection was Saheed Umar, who served as the NDC Vice Chairman in Ogbia Local Government Area. Umar said he decided to align himself with the ruling party in order to contribute to its objectives.

“As a progressive youth, I chose to align with the ruling party and embrace the winning team. I am here to serve in the APC,” he stated.

Welcoming the new members, Deputy Governor Peter Akpe described their decision as a positive development for the APC. He urged them to remain committed to strengthening the party, promoting unity among members, and supporting the state’s development agenda.

Other former NDC members who also defected to the APC include Victor Egba, an Ogbia Constituency I aspirant, Gilbert Alawei, Agidi George, Azibola Oru, Solomon Etor, Fineman Eseimokumo, and Munteuma Clifford.

The latest wave of defections comes at a difficult time for the NDC, following the recent court ruling that nullified the judgment which had compelled the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to register the party. The development has raised fresh questions about the party’s future as it prepares for the 2027 general elections.

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The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, NNPCL, has slashed its fuel pump price for the second time within four days.

A market survey on Saturday by DAILY POST showed that NNPCL retail outlets around Airport Junction and Wuse Zone 6 (Berger) in Abuja have reduced their petrol price to N1210 per litre, down from N1260.

This means that the state-owned oil firm slashed the petrol price by N50 per litre.

This comes barely two days after Dangote Refinery reduced its petrol gantry price by N50 to N1,125 per litre.

Recall that four days ago, NNPCL had adjusted its fuel price pump by N75 per litre to N1260.

With the latest drop by NNPCL retail outlets, petrol prices stand between N1210 per litre and N1305 per litre in Abuja and its environs.

The reduction in domestic fuel comes amid falling crude oil prices, which stand at $69 per barrel and $71 per barrel for West Texas Intermediate and Brent crude, respectively, following the easing of the conflict in the Middle East.

Recall that President Bola Tinubu has kept mum amid the clamour by Nigerians for a commensurate drop in domestic fuel pump prices due to the significant reduction in crude oil prices.