The African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Owerri Municipal, Imo State, has concluded its Local Government Area Congress, with Hon. Success Opara emerging as the new Chairman. The congress, conducted in all wards across Owerri Municipal, saw party faithfuls voting for Opara, who is expected to lead the party to victory in future elections.

However, there’s an ongoing leadership tussle within the Imo State ADC, with Chief Emmanuel Amushie claiming to be the authentic state chairman, recognized by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). On the other hand, Prof. James Okoroma has also been declared the authentic state chairman by the national leadership of the ADC.

On the other hand  Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has removed the faction led by Prof. James Okoroma as the recognized leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Imo State, as of April 9, 2026. INEC recognizes only the Amuchie-led Executive as the lawful and legitimate leadership of the ADC in Imo State.

The removal follows a Court of Appeal ruling directing parties to maintain the status quo pending the determination of a substantive suit before the Federal High Court. INEC has also suspended recognition of all leadership factions of the ADC until the court reaches a final decision.

The Independent Broadcast Association of Nigeria (IBAN) has asked the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, to retract a controversial remark he made about a journalist with Channels Television, Seun Okinbaloye.

IBAN, the umbrella body for independent broadcast stations in Nigeria, also warned that it may boycott all media engagements organized by the minister if he fails to issue a public apology.

In a statement signed by Ahmed Ramalan, IBAN Chairman, and Fidelis Duker, Acting General Secretary, the association expressed concern about the implications of the comment aired during a live television interview.

The controversy stemmed from a remark made by Wike during a routine media chat on Friday, when he reacted to Okinbaloye’s commentary on the trajectory of Nigeria’s democracy while watching the program Politics Today.

“If there was any way to break the screen, I would have shot him,” Wike had said.

The minister later clarified to journalists present that the statement was not a literal threat.

On Saturday, Lere Olayinka, Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications to the minister, described the comment as “hyperbolic”, arguing that it had been taken out of context by critics.

However, IBAN maintained that the remark was inappropriate for a public official, even if it was not intended as a literal threat.

The association said statements suggesting violence could easily be interpreted as intimidation of journalists.

IBAN warned that comments implying violence could contribute to a hostile environment for media practitioners.

The group noted that Nigeria currently ranks 122 out of 180 countries on the global press freedom index, adding that journalists already face numerous challenges.

According to the association, these include surveillance, attacks, and arbitrary arrests.

The association called on the minister to withdraw the remark and apologise publicly to the journalist and the wider media community.

IBAN also urged Wike to reaffirm his commitment to press freedom in accordance with Sections 22 and 39 of the 1999 Constitution.

“Should the minister fail to meet these requests within a reasonable period, IBAN will have no choice but to advise all independent broadcast stations to suspend coverage of all press briefings, media chats, and official news conferences hosted by the FCT minister,” the statement read.

Despite its warning, the association said it remains open to constructive engagement with public officials.

“We hope the minister will take the necessary corrective action so that normal coverage can continue without interruption,” IBAN added.

In a heartfelt message, Hon Success Opara has extended warm Easter greetings to Nigerians, celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Speaking at St. Peter Anglican Church Ikengbu, Opara emphasized the significance of Easter, saying, “He is risen! May the miracle of Easter bring you renewed hope, faith, and joy. Rejoice in the promise of new life and the joy that conquered everything.”

The lawmaker prayed for Nigerians to experience the transformative power of the resurrection, urging them to find solace in the promise of eternal life. “As we commemorate this sacred occasion, let us reflect on the values of love, compassion, and forgiveness that Jesus Christ embodied,” he said.

Hon Opara’s message was filled with Easter cheer, as he wished Nigerians a joyous celebration with family and loved ones. “May the spirit of Easter fill your heart with peace, hope, and renewed faith. Happy Easter!”

The Easter celebration at St. Peter Anglican Church Ikengbu was marked with prayers, hymns, and reflections on the significance of Christ’s resurrection.