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Author: Promise Odejide

  • Asaba Ladies Lament “No More Toasting”, Blame Economy For Dating Shift

    A group of young women in Asaba have sparked reactions online after complaining about what they described as a sharp decline in men approaching women in public spaces.

    The women, in a viral video over the weekend, questioned why outings that once came with attention and friendly conversations now feel unusually quiet despite their efforts to dress up and look attractive.

    What they said

    In the trending clip, one of the ladies expressed frustration over the situation, suggesting that men no longer make the first move like before.

    “God abeg o, dem no dey toast person again? With all the make up and cloth we no even see person wey say hi,” she said.

    Another added that after moving around the city, they still did not get approached, raising concerns about how much things have changed.

    Economic pressure linked to shift

    The women linked the change to Nigeria’s current economic reality, arguing that financial pressure may be affecting social confidence and dating behaviour.

    With rising cost of living and reduced disposable income, many believe some men are becoming more cautious about starting conversations that could lead to financial expectations.

    Reactions trail video

    The video has since generated mixed reactions online, with some Nigerians agreeing that economic hardship is affecting social interactions, while others argued that dating culture is simply evolving.

    The discussion adds to wider conversations about how inflation and lifestyle changes are influencing relationships and everyday social behaviour across the country.

  • Saraki Fires Back At Kwara Govt Over Offa Robbery Charges, Calls Case “Frivolous”

    Former Senate President, Bukola Saraki, has strongly denied any link to the 2018 Offa robbery incident, describing fresh charges filed against him by the Kwara State Government as “frivolous” and politically motivated.

    In a statement shared on his Facebook page, Saraki said he initially considered ignoring the case but decided to respond following what he described as widespread concern from Nigerians over the development.

    What Saraki said

    Saraki insisted he had no direct or indirect involvement in the Offa robbery or any criminal activity, alleging that the case was originally orchestrated during the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari as a tool to weaken his political influence ahead of the 2019 elections.

    He cited legal advice from the Director of Public Prosecution under the Office of the Attorney General of the Federation, which he said found no evidence linking him to the crime.

    According to him, the DPP stated in separate reports that there was no basis to establish a case of conspiracy, armed robbery, or culpable homicide against him.

    Allegations of political witch-hunt

    The former Senate President accused the current Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, of reviving the case as part of a political agenda.

    He claimed the charges resurfaced shortly after he criticised the state government’s handling of insecurity during a television interview, alleging that the move was aimed at discrediting him.

    Saraki further alleged that key documents clearing him were deliberately withheld from public circulation, while what he described as “skewed narratives” were promoted in the media.

    “This is a clear abuse of the judicial process to embarrass my person,” he said, adding that his legal team is prepared to challenge the case in court.

    Security concerns raised

    Saraki also criticised the state government’s focus, arguing that it should prioritise tackling insecurity rather than pursuing what he described as politically driven cases.

    He claimed that hundreds of lives had been lost to banditry in Kwara State in recent times, insisting that governance should focus on protecting citizens.

    Confidence in judiciary

    Despite his criticism, Saraki expressed confidence in the judiciary, stating that the courts would ultimately determine the truth.

    He maintained that the case would “collapse like a pack of cards,” reiterating his belief that justice would prevail.

    The development comes days after the Kwara State Government filed charges against Saraki and former Governor Abdulfatai Ahmed over alleged links to the Offa robbery case.

    Related search: Bukola Saraki Offa robbery case Kwara State charges

  • Toyin Abraham Replies Abike Shuga Over ‘Ijakumo’ Fallout, Payment Claims

    Nollywood actress and filmmaker Toyin Abraham has responded to allegations by social media influencer Abike Shuga over their past collaboration, addressing claims about payment and removed scenes in her film Ijakumo.

    What Abike alleged

    Abike Shuga, who rose to prominence after appearing in Malaika, had earlier shared a video recounting her experience working with Toyin Abraham.

    She claimed she was paid ₦50,000 for a role in Ijakumo, only to later discover that her scenes were not included in the final version of the movie.

    According to her, she attended the premiere expecting to see her performance, but was surprised when her scenes were missing.

    She also alleged that she turned down an opportunity with Funke Akindele at the time, believing Toyin Abraham’s project would offer better exposure.

    Toyin Abraham responds

    Reacting, Toyin Abraham dismissed the claims, stating that Abike was paid ₦500,000 for her role in Malaika and ₦50,000 for two scenes in Ijakumo.

    She explained that the decision to remove the scenes was taken by the film’s director, not her.

    “I have made up my mind never to say anything cos I see her as daughter… she was paid 500k for Malaika for an upcoming, nobody will pay such,” she said.

    Defence and industry stance

    The actress maintained that she has supported upcoming talents in the industry, insisting that she is among those willing to pay generously for emerging actors.

    She also referenced past support she had given Abike, including assisting her with equipment.

    The development has sparked reactions online, with fans debating fairness, compensation, and opportunities within Nollywood.

  • FCCPC Denies Banning Airtime Borrowing, Blames Telecom Operators For Disruptions

    The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has dismissed claims that it banned airtime borrowing and data advance services in Nigeria, describing the reports as false and misleading.

    FCCPC clears the air

    In a statement, the Commission said it never issued any directive stopping Nigerians from accessing airtime or data advance services.

    “The Commission has not prohibited airtime borrowing or data advance services, and no directive was issued preventing consumers from accessing lawful telecom value-added services,” it stated.

    The clarification comes amid widespread concerns following reports of service disruptions across telecom networks.

    Why FCCPC stepped in

    The Commission explained that its intervention was driven by growing complaints from consumers.

    These include issues such as hidden charges, unexplained deductions, aggressive recovery tactics, poor transparency, and weak accountability among service providers.

    To address this, FCCPC introduced the Digital, Electronic, Online or Non-Traditional Consumer Lending Regulations in July 2025.

    The framework is aimed at improving transparency, ensuring proper registration, and protecting consumers from exploitative practices.

    Operators blamed for disruptions

    FCCPC noted that telecom operators were given a 90-day window to comply with the new regulations, which was later extended to January 5, 2026.

    However, it said some operators failed to meet the requirements and continued operating outside the regulatory framework.

    According to the Commission, any temporary suspension or disruption of services should be seen as a compliance decision by the companies, not a government ban.

    “Any temporary suspension, restriction, or operational change introduced by service providers should therefore be understood as a business or compliance decision by those operators,” it said.

    Allegations of misinformation

    The Commission also alleged that misinformation around the issue may be driven by vested interests opposed to stricter regulation and fair competition.

    It described attempts to blame the regulator as misleading, insisting that operators had enough time to comply with the rules.

    FCCPC urged Nigerians to ignore false narratives and rely on verified information regarding telecom services.

  • JAMB To Release 2026 UTME Results Today, Speaks On Hijab Controversy

    The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has announced that results for candidates who sat for the first batch of the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) will be released on Friday, April 17.

    When results will be out

    JAMB spokesperson, Fabian Benjamin, disclosed that candidates who wrote the exam on Thursday, April 16, should expect their results before midnight.

    He added that an official announcement would be made once the results are fully uploaded and accessible to the public.

    “This is to inform all candidates who sat for the 2026 UTME on Thursday, April 16, that their results will be released today before midnight,” he said.

    Assurance from JAMB

    The examination body assured candidates that updates would be shared promptly through its official channels.

    Candidates are advised to stay updated as the release process is completed.

    Board addresses hijab incident

    Meanwhile, JAMB has reacted to a reported incident involving candidates wearing hijab at a CBT centre in Ibadan, Oyo State.

    The board clarified that the situation was caused by an “overzealous” ad hoc staff member who acted outside official guidelines.

    According to JAMB, it immediately intervened and directed that no candidate should be asked to remove or alter their hijab.

    “The Board promptly intervened by calling the ad hoc official involved to order and issuing immediate instructions that no candidate wearing a hijab should be asked to remove or alter it,” the statement said.

    The board maintained that such actions do not reflect its official policy.

  • VeryDarkMan Reacts To Blord Bail, Vows To Send ‘Another Billionaire’ To Jail

    Nigerian social media influencer, VeryDarkMan, has reacted to the bail granted to cryptocurrency entrepreneur Blord, declaring that another high-profile individual may soon face legal action.

    VeryDarkMan breaks silence

    Blord was recently granted bail by a Federal High Court in Abuja, with a condition to submit his international passport.

    Reacting in a viral video, VeryDarkMan hinted at fresh moves against another wealthy individual over alleged fraudulent activities.

    “One billionaire is coming out today after 2 weeks, let’s send another billionaire to jail,” he said.

    Fresh allegations emerge

    Although he did not mention any name, speculation has linked his statement to self-acclaimed relationship expert, Blessing CEO.

    VeryDarkMan had earlier petitioned the Inspector-General of Police, accusing her of obtaining money under false pretences, forgery and false representation.

    Cancer report controversy

    The issue gained more attention after a cancer survivor, Deborah Mbara, alleged that her medical report was altered and used to solicit donations.

    According to her, the situation led to the raising of about ₦13 million from unsuspecting Nigerians.

    The Nigerian Medical Association in Delta State has also reportedly confirmed that the medical report was manipulated, calling for the suspect’s arrest.

    EFCC petition and public reaction

    The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has received a petition over the matter, with allegations that over ₦300 million may have been fraudulently obtained.

    The development has triggered widespread reactions online, as Nigerians await possible action from authorities.

  • “No Be ‘See Finish’?” Fayose Blasts Tinubu Over Election Victory Boast

    Isaac Fayose has criticised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over comments suggesting confidence in his electoral victories, sparking fresh political reactions online.

    Fayose reacts to Tinubu’s remarks

    In a viral video, Fayose, younger brother to former Ekiti State Governor Ayodele Fayose, questioned what he described as a boastful tone from the President.

    Tinubu had earlier stated that both the party primaries and the general election that brought him to power were tough, but he emerged victorious.

    Reacting, Fayose said the statement reflects a “see finish” mentality among political leaders.

    “Can you see and hear ‘see finish’ from Mr. President? He said during the primaries it was tough, but he won. And during the election that brought him in, it was tough that he won,” he said.

    Allegations about system control

    Fayose went further to suggest that such confidence points to a belief that political actors have control over key institutions.

    “They don see us finish. It’s so confident because they know that INEC is their own. They know that judicially is no more hope. They are so sure of themselves,” he added.

    Message to Nigerians

    Despite his criticism, Fayose urged Nigerians not to give up, insisting that citizens still have the power to influence the country’s future.

    “But you and I, we can still wake up and change our story. God bless you,” he said.

    The comments have since generated reactions online, as political debates continue ahead of future elections.

     

  • Tinubu’s Son Olayinka Bags Master’s Degree In UK, Video With Seyi Surfaces

    Olayinka Tinubu, son of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has completed his postgraduate studies at the University of Surrey in the United Kingdom, earning a Master of Science in International Financial Management.

    Moment captured at graduation

    The graduation ceremony took place on Wednesday at the university’s campus.

    A video circulating online captured a moment between the siblings, showing Seyi Tinubu helping Olayinka adjust his graduation gown ahead of the ceremony.

    Low-profile lifestyle

    Unlike his brother Seyi, who has remained visible in political circles, Olayinka has largely stayed out of the public spotlight.

    One of his few public appearances in recent years was in May 2023, when he accompanied his father to the Presidential Villa during the formal handover from former President Muhammadu Buhari.

    Debate over foreign education

    The development has again stirred conversations around Nigerian leaders sending their children abroad for education.

    Some Nigerians have criticised the trend, arguing that it reflects a lack of confidence in the country’s education system.

    There have also been calls for policies that would require public officials to enrol their children in local institutions, though no concrete action has been taken.

  • ISWAP Claims Series of Deadly Attacks on Nigerian Forces, Alleges Coordinated Strikes Across Borders

    The Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) has claimed responsibility for a wave of attacks targeting Nigerian security forces and neighbouring countries, detailing coordinated operations involving explosives, ambushes, and assaults on military and police positions.

    ISWAP details alleged attacks on troops

    The claims were published in Arabic and later translated into English, with copies circulating on social media platform X on Thursday.

    According to the group, its fighters executed multiple operations using roadside bombs and ambush tactics against security convoys and checkpoints.

    One of the key claims involved an attack on a military patrol in northern Nigeria.

    “What actually happened was that the roadside bomb exploded directly on the patrol, causing the death of seven soldiers, including an officer with the rank of Major, wounding others, and destroying a four-wheel-drive vehicle,” the statement read.

    Ambush operations and cross-border claims

    ISWAP also claimed it carried out an attack on an army position near a town’s outskirts, allegedly designed to lure troops into an ambush.

    The group further alleged attacks on police officers and local militia members, saying dozens were killed across operations in Nigeria and neighbouring Niger Republic.

    It also referenced an attack on a checkpoint at the entrance of Rifa city in Niger Republic, claiming casualties and destruction of military equipment.

    “11 attacks in one week” — group claims escalation

    The publication claimed that at least 11 attacks were carried out within one week, resulting in 42 vehicles being burned or disabled.

    Beyond West Africa, ISWAP also included claims of attacks in Syria, including an alleged strike on a government vehicle near Raqqa.

    Allegations against Nigerian military

    The group accused Nigerian troops of carrying out retaliatory actions against civilian communities near Monguno, describing them as “desperate and uncivilised steps… to cover up its repeated failures and heavy losses.”

    Security caution over claims

    Security analysts have urged caution over the reports, warning that insurgent groups often exaggerate operational success for propaganda purposes.

    A security source told Punch that such statements should be treated carefully, noting that terrorist organisations frequently rely on misinformation and psychological warfare to shape public perception.

  • Iran Reopens Strait of Hormuz, Triggering Sharp Drop in Global Oil Prices After Ceasefire

    Iran has fully reopened the Strait of Hormuz to commercial shipping, restoring passage through one of the world’s most critical oil routes amid a 10-day ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon.

    Strait reopened under ceasefire terms

    Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, announced on Friday that the strategic waterway will remain open for commercial vessels for as long as the ceasefire in the Middle East holds.

    “The passage for all commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz is declared completely open for the remaining period of the ceasefire,” he said in a post on X.

    The announcement follows uncertainty over whether the reopening aligns with the recent ceasefire involving Lebanon and Israel or an earlier truce between Iran and the United States.

    US reacts as Trump welcomes move

    United States President Donald Trump reacted to Iran’s decision, describing the development as positive for global shipping and energy flow.

    “THANK YOU!” Trump wrote on Truth Social, adding that the Strait had been “FULLY OPEN AND READY FOR FULL PASSAGE.”

    His response signals cautious relief in Washington as tensions around the strategic route ease, at least temporarily.

    Strategic waterway back in focus

    The Strait of Hormuz, through which a significant share of global oil shipments pass, had previously faced restrictions after heightened tensions in the region.

    Iran had earlier signalled limited closure following military escalations involving the United States and Israel, raising fears over global energy security.

    Oil prices tumble, markets react

    The reopening has already triggered sharp movements in global markets.

    Oil prices reportedly dropped by more than 11 per cent, while European stocks rallied and US futures pointed upward as investors reacted to easing supply fears.

    Analysts say the development underscores the Strait’s outsized influence on global energy stability, with ripple effects expected across importing economies, including Nigeria.