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Author: Promise Odejide

  • Ex-Arsenal Goalkeeper Alex Manninger Dies at 48 After Train Collision

    Former Arsenal goalkeeper Alex Manninger has died at the age of 48 after his car was struck by a train in Austria, in a tragic incident that occurred on Thursday morning near Salzburg.

    What happened

    Police said the crash happened around 8:20am at a level crossing, where Manninger’s vehicle was hit by an oncoming train.

    Emergency responders reportedly used a defibrillator after pulling him from the wreckage, but efforts to revive him were unsuccessful. He was alone in the car at the time.

    Authorities confirmed that the train driver was not injured.

    Career at Arsenal and beyond

    Manninger played 64 matches for Arsenal between 1997 and 2002, winning both the Premier League and FA Cup during his time at the club.

    He was also capped 33 times for Austria and was part of the squad at Euro 2008, hosted in his home country.

    During his career, he featured for several European clubs including Juventus, Udinese, Siena, and Augsburg.

    Early breakthrough and recognition

    At Arsenal, Manninger often served as backup to David Seaman but stepped up during the 1997–98 season, delivering key performances.

    He played a crucial role in the club’s FA Cup run that season and impressed in a notable win against Manchester United at Old Trafford.

    His performances earned him the Premier League Player of the Month award in March 1998.

    Later years

    Manninger later joined Liverpool in 2016 under Jurgen Klopp on a short-term deal, although he did not make a competitive appearance.

    He was brought in as an experienced figure within the squad before retiring shortly after.

    Tributes pour in

    The Austrian Football Association paid tribute to the late goalkeeper, describing him as a respected figure in the sport.

    “Alexander Manninger was an outstanding ambassador for Austrian football, both on and off the pitch,” said sporting director Peter Schottel.

    “His professionalism, composure, and reliability made him an integral part of his teams and the national team.”

  • DJ Cuppy Opens Up on Dating Life, Says “I Once Dated a Bus Driver”

    Nigerian disc jockey Florence Otedola, popularly known as DJ Cuppy, has revealed details about her past relationships, saying she has dated different kinds of men, including a bus driver, as she opens up on her evolving expectations in love.

    What she said

    Speaking during a recent interview with ZeZe Millz, the 33-year-old said her dating experience has been wide-ranging, cutting across different professions and backgrounds.

    “I’ve dated all kinds of men,” she said, noting that her past includes a model, a footballer, and even a bus driver.

    She disclosed that she met some of her partners through dating apps, revealing she once paid £400 to join one.

    “I once dated a bus driver I met on a dating app that I paid £400 to join,” she said.

    What she wants now

    Cuppy said her priorities have changed, stressing that she now desires a more grounded partner.

    “All I want now is a simple 9–5 man with no social media,” she added.

    Her comments come amid growing public interest in her personal life, especially following her younger sister Temi Otedola’s marriage to singer Mr Eazi.

    Past relationships in the spotlight

    Cuppy’s dating history has often attracted public attention, with several high-profile relationships over the years.

    One of the most talked-about was her engagement to British boxer Ryan Taylor in November 2022, just weeks after they met. The relationship, however, ended in July 2023.

    Before that, she was in a relationship with music executive Asa Asika between 2018 and 2020, which later ended, with Cuppy admitting she played a role in the breakup.

    Other links and rumours

    She was also previously linked to former Super Eagles striker Victor Anichebe around 2017, a relationship that was widely publicised at the time.

    In 2019, she was frequently associated with British-Nigerian boxer Anthony Joshua, although both maintained they were close family friends rather than romantic partners.

    What it means

    Cuppy’s latest comments have sparked reactions online, with many fans reflecting on her journey and changing outlook on relationships, as she appears to be seeking a more private and stable connection.

  • 744 Repentant Terrorists Graduate from FG De-radicalisation Programme, Face Fresh Debate Over Reintegration

    A total of 744 repentant terrorists and victims of violent extremism have graduated from the Federal Government’s De-radicalisation, Rehabilitation and Reintegration programme under Operation Safe Corridor, reigniting national debate over Nigeria’s strategy for handling former insurgents.

    What happened

    The graduation ceremony was held on Thursday in Gombe State, where military officials and government representatives confirmed the completion of the programme by the 744 participants drawn from different parts of Nigeria and neighbouring countries.

    A breakdown shows the majority, 597 participants, are from Borno State, while others came from Yobe, Adamawa, Kano, Katsina, Sokoto, Plateau, and several other states.

    Foreign nationals from Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Chad, and the Niger Republic were also part of the cohort.

    Military explains programme

    The Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, described the initiative as a strategic security tool rather than a reward for violence.

    Represented by Rear Admiral Kabiru Tanimu, he said the programme addresses the root causes of extremism while supporting long-term peacebuilding efforts.

    “This is not a reward but a deliberate strategy to reduce violence, weaken extremist recruitment and promote long-term stability,” he said.

    He added that while military operations remain essential, rehabilitation and reintegration are necessary for sustainable peace.

    Training and rehabilitation process

    Officials said participants underwent extensive rehabilitation, including psychosocial therapy, vocational training, civic education, religious reorientation, and behavioural reform.

    According to Brig. Gen. Yusuf Ali, the programme is designed not just for disengagement, but for rebuilding identity and reintegration into society.

    “Some were abducted, others were forced, and many were drawn into the conflict due to circumstances beyond their control,” he said.

    Call for community support

    Authorities stressed that reintegration will require cooperation from state governments, communities, and families.

    The Defence Headquarters warned that acceptance and monitoring of the graduates will be critical to sustaining peace gains.

    “Nigeria is giving you a second chance; do not waste it,” the CDS told the graduates.

    Concerns and criticism

    Despite government backing, Operation Safe Corridor has continued to face criticism from sections of the public and political figures.

    Critics argue that some beneficiaries may return to insurgency, raising concerns about national security and accountability in the programme.

    Senator Adams Oshiomhole has previously called for the suspension of the initiative, citing fears of recidivism among repentant fighters.

    Wider security context

    The programme was introduced as part of Nigeria’s broader counter-insurgency strategy in the North-East, combining military action with non-kinetic approaches aimed at reducing radicalisation and encouraging reintegration.

    While supporters say it helps weaken extremist recruitment networks, debates continue over its long-term effectiveness in addressing insecurity.

  • Court Orders Arrest of Ex-Minister Sadiya Farouq, Permanent Secretary Over Alleged ₦2.4bn Fraud

    The Federal High Court in Abuja has issued a bench warrant for the arrest of former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Sadiya Umar Farouq, and a Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Bashir Nura Alkali, over alleged involvement in a ₦2.4 billion fraud case linked to public funds.

    What happened

    Justice Jude Onwuegbuzie issued the arrest order on Thursday, April 16, 2026, following an application by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), which is prosecuting the defendants on a 21-count charge bordering on alleged breach of trust, abuse of office, and diversion of funds.

    The third defendant in the case, Sani Nafiu Mohammed, was present in court when the proceedings took place.

    EFCC’s argument in court

    EFCC counsel Rotimi Jacobs told the court that the first and second defendants had repeatedly failed to appear in court despite being served.

    “They were served, my lord, but failed to appear. Only the third defendant reported when his surety was contacted,” he said.

    Jacobs also informed the court that Farouq had previously been granted permission to travel abroad for medical treatment but had not returned her passport or submitted any medical report.

    “Since that passport was released, she has not returned it. We do not have any medical report till date,” he added.

    Defence plea rejected

    Counsel to the former minister, Abdul Ibrahim, told the court that her absence was due to ill health and attempted to submit an affidavit in support of the claim.

    However, the court declined the application.

    The defence also requested a six-week extension to produce the defendants in court, but the prosecution opposed the request, insisting on stricter enforcement.

    Court’s ruling

    Ruling on the matter, Justice Onwuegbuzie granted the EFCC’s application and issued a bench warrant for the arrest of both Farouq and Alkali.

    The judge subsequently adjourned the case to May 18, 2026, for arraignment and trial.

    Allegations against defendants

    According to the charge sheet, the defendants are accused of diverting funds linked to the National Social Safety Net Coordinating Office, including money meant for refunds from contractors.

    One of the counts alleges that excess payments meant for beneficiary validation were allegedly converted for personal use.

    The alleged offences are said to contravene provisions of Nigeria’s Penal Code.

    Background

    Sadiya Umar Farouq served as Minister of Humanitarian Affairs from 2019 to 2023 under former President Muhammadu Buhari, and has remained under investigation over financial activities linked to the ministry’s programmes.

  • Okpebholo Grants Full Scholarships to Three Children of Late Edo Officer Braimah

    Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has approved full educational scholarships for the three children of the late Oseni Omoh Braimah, a fallen security officer, in a move aimed at securing their academic future from their current levels up to university.

    What happened

    The Edo State Government confirmed the approval in a statement issued on Thursday by the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Patrick Akhere Ebojele.

    The beneficiaries are Farida Hussain-Braimah, 18, a 100-level Software Engineering student at Nile University, Abuja; Amir Hussain-Braimah, 16, an SS3 student at Olumawu Senior School; and Yasmeen Hussain-Braimah, 12, a JSS2 pupil at Olumawu Junior Secondary School.

    The government said their education will be fully funded without interruption.

    Governor’s decision

    Governor Okpebholo described the gesture as both a moral responsibility and a commitment to honouring those who die in service to the nation.

    “Brigadier General Braimah paid the ultimate price in service to this country. It is only right that we stand by the family he left behind,” he said.

    He added that the initiative is designed to ensure the children are not denied access to quality education due to the loss of their father.

    What the scholarship covers

    The state government said the support will cover the children’s education from their current academic levels through to university, fully funded by the Edo State Government.

    Officials added that the policy reflects the administration’s focus on human capital development under its SHINE Agenda, which prioritises education and social welfare.

    Honouring a fallen officer

    The late Braimah was described by the governor as a symbol of discipline, courage, and patriotism.

    He died during security operations and was later buried with full military honours at the Maimalari Cantonment Cemetery.

    Wider call for support

    The Edo State Government also called on other states and private sector actors to adopt similar initiatives to support families of fallen military personnel.

    It stressed the need for structured interventions, especially in education, to prevent children of deceased officers from being left behind.

    The move adds to growing conversations around long-term welfare systems for families of security personnel who die in active service.

  • Trump Administration Terminates $11m Migrant Child Care Contract With Catholic Charities in Miami

    The United States government under President Donald Trump has cancelled an $11 million federal contract with Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Miami, ending a decades-long partnership focused on sheltering and caring for unaccompanied migrant children in Florida.

    What happened

    According to reports from the Miami Herald, the Office of Refugee Resettlement under the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) informed Catholic Charities in late March that the contract would be terminated.

    The programme, which functioned as a federally funded foster care system for migrant children arriving in the US without parents or guardians, is expected to shut down within three months.

    The decision ends a partnership that dates back more than 60 years.

    Why the decision was taken

    HHS officials said the move is part of ongoing efforts to reduce costs and consolidate migrant care facilities as the number of unaccompanied minors in federal custody declines.

    A spokesperson noted that daily numbers have dropped to about 1,900 under the Trump administration, compared to a peak of 22,000 during the Biden years.

    Officials also linked the decision to broader immigration enforcement and anti-smuggling policies, although Catholic Charities was not directly accused of wrongdoing.

    Church reacts

    Archbishop of Miami, Most Revd Thomas Wenski, described the decision as sudden and unexpected, warning that it could disrupt a long-standing humanitarian system.

    “The US government has abruptly decided to end more than 60 years of relationship with Catholic Charities in the Archdiocese of Miami,” he said.

    He added that the organisation had built a strong track record in caring for vulnerable children, calling its service “unmatched” in quality and consistency.

    What the programme handled

    The Miami-based initiative included an 81-bed children’s facility in Miami-Dade County and provided foster care placement, trauma support, and family reunification services for migrant children.

    Its origins trace back to the 1960s, including Operation Pedro Pan, a US-Catholic Church effort that helped relocate thousands of Cuban children fleeing the Castro regime.

    Wider tensions

    The development comes amid reported tensions between the Trump administration and the leadership of the Catholic Church.

    Earlier this week, President Trump criticised Pope Leo XIV, calling him “weak on crime” and “terrible for foreign policy,” comments the Pope responded to by saying he was not afraid of the administration.

    What next

    Catholic officials have questioned the decision, arguing that replacing such a long-standing and specialised system will be difficult.

    “It is baffling that the US government would shut down a programme that it would be hard-pressed to replicate,” Archbishop Wenski said.

  • Mo Bimpe Sparks Twin Rumours as Viral Video Shows Actress Holding Two Babies

    A new video of Nollywood actress Mo Bimpe holding two babies has surfaced online, intensifying speculation that she and her husband, Lateef Adedimeji, may have welcomed a set of twins after days of unconfirmed reports.

    What sparked the rumours

    The speculation began after popular faceless blogger Cutie Juls claimed in an Instagram post that the couple had welcomed twins, a report that quickly gained traction across social media.

    Despite the buzz, neither Mo Bimpe nor Lateef Adedimeji has issued an official statement, leaving fans to rely on subtle hints and online clues.

    Viral video fuels speculation

    The latest development came with the emergence of a viral clip believed by many to be the first public sighting of the actress with her newborns.

    In the video, Mo Bimpe is seen holding two babies while speaking to someone behind the camera, as a voice in the background congratulates her.

    She responded with appreciation, a moment that many fans interpreted as confirmation of the earlier reports.

    Fans react online

    The video has since triggered a wave of reactions, with many fans celebrating what they believe is good news for the couple.

    Some expressed excitement and gratitude, while others used the moment to share personal hopes and prayers.

    Others also referenced past criticisms directed at the couple, saying the development, if true, marks a joyful turning point.

    Background

    Reports had earlier suggested that the couple welcomed twins after several years of marriage, further fueling emotional reactions among fans who have followed their journey closely.

    The couple remains one of Nollywood’s most admired pairs, often drawing attention for their relationship and public appearances.

    What it means

    While the couple has yet to confirm the reports, the video has only intensified speculation, with fans continuing to flood social media with congratulatory messages.

     

  • Bandits Kill, Kidnap Several in Coordinated Attacks Across Kwara Communities

    Suspected bandits have killed several residents and abducted others in coordinated late-night attacks on three rural communities in Isin and Ifelodun local government areas of Kwara State, deepening security concerns in the region.

    How the attacks unfolded

    The attacks occurred on Wednesday night, targeting Iwo Odo-Ore in Isin LGA, as well as Gaa-Idera and Gaa Dembo-Agunjin in Ifelodun LGA.

    Residents said the gunmen stormed the communities simultaneously, shooting sporadically and abducting victims during the raids.

    In Gaa-Odera, at least two people were shot while two others were kidnapped.

    Heavy abductions reported

    The violence was more intense in Iwo Odo-Ore, where at least five residents were abducted, including a prominent figure, Alhaji Yusuf Yunusa, alongside four Hausa residents.

    Sources described Yusuf as a well-known politician in the area and a school proprietor with interests in both Kwara and Lagos.

    He was reportedly preparing for a family Islamic ceremony before the attack.

    Wedding disrupted in Ifelodun

    In Ifelodun LGA, bandits abducted six people in Gaa Dembo-Agunjin and two others in Gaa-Idera.

    The victims reportedly included family members linked to a wedding scheduled for Thursday.

    “They kidnapped the bride’s mother and one other person,” a source said, adding that cattle were also rustled during the attack.

    Casualties and injuries

    Residents said the attackers opened fire during the عملیات, leaving at least two people injured.

    “One person was hit in the hand by a bullet,” a source confirmed.

    The number of those killed has not been officially verified, but multiple sources insist casualties were recorded.

    Authorities yet to respond

    As of the time of filing this report, security agencies have not issued an official statement on the attacks.

    The incident adds to growing concerns over rising banditry and insecurity in parts of Kwara State and neighbouring regions.

  • Eedris Recalls Obasanjo’s “Jagajaga” Outburst, Says Ex-President Walked Out After Hearing Song

    Veteran Nigerian rapper Eedris Abdulkareem has opened up on his controversial encounter with former president Olusegun Obasanjo over his hit song “Jagajaga,” revealing how the ex-leader first blasted him publicly before later walking out of an event after hearing the same track.

    How it started

    Eedris said the drama began when he received a call alerting him that Obasanjo was speaking about him on television.

    “I was sleeping one day and received a call… ‘Put on your TV, Obasanjo is talking about you,’” he recalled.

    According to him, the former president criticised the song harshly while praising other tracks.

    “He said he loves songs like ‘He go better’, but there is one stupid boy that sang ‘Nigeria Jagajaga’. It’s his father and his mother that are Jagajaga,” Eedris recounted.

    His reaction

    Rather than feel insulted, the rapper said he was pleased that his message had reached the highest level of leadership.

    He explained that the criticism only confirmed that the song had made the impact he intended.

    Unexpected reunion in Europe

    Months later, Eedris said he was invited to perform at an international event in Europe attended by Obasanjo and other dignitaries.

    He revealed that the situation took an unexpected turn just before his performance.

    “My friend, the German ambassador, reached out… When it was my turn, the DJ started playing ‘Jagajaga’,” he said.

    What happened next

    According to Eedris, Obasanjo initially danced along, unaware of the song playing.

    “At that moment, he didn’t know the song. He was dancing,” he said.

    However, the mood quickly changed once the former president realised it was the same track he had earlier criticised.

    “A few minutes later, it dawned on him… He got upset immediately, stood up and travelled back to Nigeria,” Eedris added.

    Background

    “Jagajaga” remains one of the most politically charged songs in Nigeria’s music history, widely known for its criticism of governance and social conditions at the time.

    Eedris’ latest revelation has reignited conversations around the song’s impact and its place in Nigeria’s political and cultural landscape.

  • Abiodun Approves Weekly Day Off, ₦10,000 Transport Allowance for Ogun Workers

    Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun has approved a weekly day off and a ₦10,000 monthly transport allowance for civil servants, a move aimed at easing the impact of rising fuel prices and cost of living, with the measures set to run for three months from April 2026.

    Relief measures announced

    The development was disclosed in a statement issued on Thursday by the Head of Service, Kehinde Onasanya, who said the decision was designed to provide immediate relief to workers facing increased transportation costs.

    According to him, the weekly day off will apply across the state workforce, while the ₦10,000 allowance will serve as a temporary palliative within the three-month period.

    “This is in addition to the payment of ₦10,000 special transport allowance as palliatives for three months commencing from April 2026,” Onasanya said.

    Who is affected

    Onasanya clarified that not all categories of workers will benefit from the weekly day-off arrangement.

    He explained that essential workers, including medical personnel, judicial staff, teachers, security operatives, and heads of departments, will be exempted from the one-day break.

    However, they will still receive the ₦10,000 transport allowance.

    Implementation plan

    The Head of Service said accounting officers across Ministries, Departments, and Agencies will determine the specific day off for eligible staff.

    This, he noted, is to ensure that government operations and service delivery are not disrupted.

    He added that the intervention is expected to not only cushion economic pressure but also improve worker productivity.

    Why the decision was taken

    The state government said the move is a direct response to the recent hike in fuel prices and the ripple effect on transportation and living costs.

    Onasanya described the approval as a timely intervention, urging workers to reciprocate the gesture with improved commitment and efficiency.

    Similar move in Oyo

    The development mirrors a similar policy in Oyo State, where Governor Seyi Makinde approved a ₦10,000 monthly transport allowance for civil servants.

    Makinde said the support, which began in March, will also run for an initial period of three months as part of efforts to ease economic hardship.