By Ezinne

‎France is in mourning following the passing of one of its most influential political figures of the modern era.

‎Former Prime Minister Lionel Jospin, the disciplined Socialist leader who steered France through a pivotal period of social reform, has died at the age of 88. His family confirmed the news to the Agence France-Presse earlier today, Monday, March 23, 2026, stating that the former head of government passed away peacefully on Sunday. Jospin, who had undergone a serious surgical operation in January, had been recuperating at his home in Paris prior to his death.

‎Jospin’s tenure as Prime Minister from 1997 to 2002 remains a landmark in French political history.

‎Serving under centre-right President Jacques Chirac during a period of “cohabitation,” Jospin was the architect of the “Plural Left” coalition. He is best remembered globally for introducing the 35-hour work week, a reform aimed at reducing unemployment and improving work-life balance that remains a cornerstone of French labor law. His government also pioneered the Civil Solidarity Pact (PACS), which granted legal recognition to same-sex couples, and implemented significant laws on gender parity in politics.

‎Despite his legislative successes, Jospin’s political career ended in a shock that transformed the French landscape.

‎In the 2002 presidential election, he was unexpectedly eliminated in the first round by far-right leader Jean-Marie Le Pen—an event often referred to as a “political earthquake.” True to his reputation for personal integrity and austerity, Jospin immediately announced his retirement from active politics that same evening. In his later years, he served as a member of the Constitutional Council and remained a respected moral compass for the French Socialist Party.

By Ezinne

‎In a landmark judgment that has sent shockwaves through Nigeria’s civil service, the Federal High Court in Abuja has sentenced the former acting Accountant-General of the Federation, Mr. Chukwunyere Nwabuoku, to 72 years in prison.

‎The sentence follows a grueling trial brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) involving the laundering and diversion of ₦868.46 million. Justice James Omotosho, delivering the verdict today, Monday, March 23, 2026, found Nwabuoku guilty on all nine amended counts of money laundering, conspiracy, and conversion of public funds. The court noted that the convict systematically betrayed the public trust while serving as the Director of Finance and Accounts at the Ministry of Defence between 2019 and 2021.

‎The details of the heist reveal a sophisticated web of shell companies and illicit transfers.

‎The prosecution successfully proved that Nwabuoku used several firms, including Temero Synergy Concept Limited and Turge Global Investment Limited, as conduits to siphon funds meant for national defense. The EFCC presented evidence showing that millions of Naira were moved into these private accounts and subsequently converted for personal use. While the defense argued that Nwabuoku was not a signatory to some of the accounts, the court ruled that the “trail of evidence” linked the illicit proceeds directly to his beneficial control.

‎The 72-year sentence is to be served concurrently, meaning Nwabuoku will spend a maximum of eight years in a correctional facility.

‎However, the court also ordered the forfeiture of all assets linked to the fraud, including properties in Abuja and substantial balances in the identified corporate accounts. This conviction is a significant win for the EFCC’s renewed anti-corruption drive, particularly as Nwabuoku had briefly assumed the role of acting Accountant-General in 2022 following the suspension of his predecessor, Ahmed Idris, who is himself facing a separate ₦109 billion fraud trial.

‎Legal analysts are describing the judgment as a “clear signal” to public officers that the era of impunity in financial management is nearing its end. As Nwabuoku begins his term at the Kuje Correctional Centre, the focus now shifts to the ongoing high-profile trials of other top-tier accounting officers currently in the eye of the storm.

By Favour Bibaikefie

The Ijaw National Congress (INC) has formally inaugurated a new Board of Trustees (BoT), with a strong call for unity, stability, and visionary leadership across the Ijaw nation.

The was contained in a statement signed by the National Publicity Secretary, Chief (Engr.) Ezonebi Oyakemeagbegha and prwsnted during the inauguration ceremony, which took place on March 19, 2026, marks a significant step in strengthening the leadership structure of the apex socio-cultural organization. In a congratulatory message issued on behalf of the National Executive Council (NEC), the INC commended the successful constitution and swearing-in of the new board.

Leading the newly inaugurated BoT is renowned statesman, Opuda (Alabo) Dumo Lulu Briggs, who assumes office as Chairman. He is supported by Chief M. O. E. Tiemo as Vice Chairman, while High Chief Fidelis Agbiki will serve as Secretary.

Other members of the board include Wing Commander P. Y. Biakpara (Rtd), HRM Zacchaeus Doubra Egbunu, Agadagba of Arogbo-Ibe, Rear Admiral Gboribiogha John Jonah (Rtd), Prof. Tarilah Tebepah, HRH King Acheseinimie Micah Frank, Bolo Luka VIII, Amayanabo of Bolo Kingdom, Engr. Telemaye Nathaniel Ekpoke, Chief Joshua Bernard Fumudoh, Prof. Atuboyedia Wolfe Obianime (JP), and Barrister Boma Obuoforibo.

Describing the Board of Trustees as the “conscience of the organisation,” the INC emphasized the critical responsibility placed on the members to safeguard its vision and ensure continuity in leadership direction. The council expressed confidence that the wealth of experience and wisdom within the board would provide the guidance necessary to navigate the challenges facing the Ijaw nation.

The statement further highlighted the importance of collaboration between the board and the National Secretariat, noting that such synergy would be essential in advancing the goals and aspirations of the Congress.

The INC concluded by expressing optimism that the newly inaugurated trustees would deliver a successful and impactful tenure, reinforcing the organisation’s commitment to unity, progress, and sustainable development in the Niger Delta.