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Author: Promise Odejide

  • AY Makun Speaks on Oyo School Kidnapping, Says Political Loyalty Should Not Silence Nigerians

    Nigerian comedian and filmmaker Ayodeji Richard Makun has called on Nigerians to engage in sincere reflection over the country’s growing challenges, particularly the recent kidnapping of students and teachers in Oyo State.

    The entertainer made the remarks in a statement shared on social media amid increasing concerns over insecurity across parts of the country.

    AY Questions Political Dependence

    According to AY, many Nigerians who depend on politicians or political structures for their livelihoods often struggle to speak openly about issues affecting the nation.

    He argued that financial ties to political interests can weaken people’s willingness to hold leaders accountable.

    “It’s time we tell ourselves some truths. When your source of livelihood depends on politics or politicians, your conscience dies and telling the truth becomes your greatest fear,” he said.

    Calls for National Reflection

    The comedian stressed that the country’s current challenges should not be viewed through political, ethnic, tribal, or religious divisions.

    Instead, he urged citizens to focus on the broader national interest and work collectively toward solutions.

    “We need to reflect deeply on the state of the nation and our collective responsibility as Nigerians,” AY stated.

    Reaction Comes Amid Security Concerns

    His comments come against the backdrop of public outrage over the abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

    The incident has generated widespread reactions from public figures, activists and concerned Nigerians, with many calling for stronger action to address insecurity.

    AY maintained that the issues facing the country affect every Nigerian regardless of political affiliation.

    “Today, we are dealing with matters that affect the country, not a political party, tribe, or religion,” he added.

    Growing Public Debate

    The filmmaker’s statement has sparked conversations online, with supporters agreeing that national issues should be addressed beyond partisan interests, while others debated the role of citizens and leaders in confronting the country’s challenges.

  • Phyna Reveals Plan to Welcome First Child Through Surrogacy

    Big Brother Naija Season 7 winner, Ijeoma Josephina Otabor, has revealed that becoming a mother is one of her top priorities for the remainder of the year and early next year.

    The reality TV star made the disclosure during a recent livestream session with fans, where she spoke about her personal goals and future plans.

    Phyna Opens Up on Motherhood Plans

    According to Phyna, her current focus is on increasing her earnings and making the necessary financial preparations before starting a family.

    She explained that achieving financial stability is important to her before taking the next step into motherhood.

    “My goal for the rest of the year and early next year is to focus on making money to have my first child,” she said.

    Reality Star Chooses Surrogacy

    The former BBNaija housemate also clarified that she does not intend to carry the pregnancy herself.

    Speaking during the livestream, Phyna disclosed that she plans to have her first child through surrogacy.

    “When I say I’m having my first child, I’m not getting pregnant myself o. No way. I’m going to have my first child through surrogate,” she stated.

    Fans React to Revelation

    Her comments quickly generated reactions across social media, with many fans expressing surprise at her decision while others applauded her openness about her plans.

    Phyna did not provide further details about the reasons behind her choice of surrogacy, but her remarks have continued to spark conversations online.

    The reality star remains one of the most talked-about personalities from the BBNaija franchise, often drawing attention for her candid opinions and lifestyle updates.

  • Looting Erupts in South African Town as Foreign-Owned Shops Targeted After Deportation Dispute

    Several shops owned by foreign nationals were looted in Estcourt, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, on Friday following rising tensions over a controversial ultimatum issued to undocumented foreign business owners.

    The incident occurred just days after a deadline given by local authorities for certain foreign traders to leave the town expired.

    Six Foreign-Owned Shops Looted

    KwaZulu-Natal Police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Robert Netshiunda, confirmed that six foreign-owned shops were targeted during the unrest.

    According to him, no injuries were reported and law enforcement officers quickly moved to restore calm in the area.

    “Six shops owned by foreign nationals were looted and calm has been restored in the area,” Netshiunda said.

    He added that police are currently assessing the situation while investigations continue.

    Tensions Linked to Court Challenge

    Authorities believe the unrest may be connected to a legal dispute involving Estcourt Mayor Mduduzi Myeza.

    The mayor had reportedly issued a 21-day deadline directing undocumented foreign business owners to leave the town.

    The deadline expired on May 27, prompting affected traders to challenge the directive in court on May 26.

    Police said some residents may have reacted to the legal action taken by the foreign nationals against the mayor’s decision.

    Authorities Seek Lasting Solution

    Netshiunda disclosed that a meeting involving the mayor’s office, police officials and property owners was scheduled for Friday afternoon.

    The gathering is expected to address growing tensions between local residents, foreign nationals and government authorities.

    Officials hope the discussions will help prevent further violence and promote peaceful coexistence within the community.

    Fresh Concerns Over Xenophobic Attacks

    The incident has renewed concerns about recurring anti-foreigner sentiment in parts of South Africa, where foreign-owned businesses have frequently been targeted during periods of social and economic tension.

    While no casualties were reported in the latest unrest, the attack has once again highlighted the fragile relationship between local communities and migrant business owners in some areas of the country.

  • Tinubu Defends Fuel Subsidy Removal, Says Nigeria Escaped Bankruptcy

    President Bola Tinubu has defended his administration’s decision to remove fuel subsidy, stating that the move saved Nigeria from imminent bankruptcy and helped stabilise the economy.

    The President made the remarks on Friday while hosting state governors at his Ikoyi residence in Lagos during Eid-el-Kabir celebrations and activities marking the third anniversary of his administration.

    Tinubu Says Reforms Prevented Economic Collapse

    According to Tinubu, the subsidy removal was a difficult but necessary decision that faced strong opposition, legal battles and public criticism.

    “It was challenging at the time, but we survived. We faced litigation and accusations. We survived them. Instead of bankruptcy, Nigeria has survived. The economy has recovered. It is growing. Agriculture is booming,” the President said.

    He argued that the fuel subsidy regime drained public resources while benefiting only a small segment of the population.

    President Highlights Economic Gains

    Tinubu said ongoing reforms in infrastructure, agriculture, social investments, fiscal management and foreign exchange policies are beginning to produce positive results.

    “I’m glad governors are no longer borrowing from the federal government and asking for interventions and not knowing how to survive, how to pay salaries, no more,” he said.

    The President added that construction projects are progressing nationwide, abandoned roads are being rehabilitated, and the housing sector is experiencing renewed growth.

    He also expressed optimism that Nigeria could achieve food sovereignty if states fully utilise available agricultural land.

    Sokoto-Badagry Highway Cited as Key Project

    Tinubu pointed to the Sokoto-Badagry Super Highway project as a major economic corridor with vast opportunities for agriculture, irrigation and electricity generation.

    “Imagine how many dams on that corridor for irrigation, for farmland, for electricity,” he said.

    The President thanked governors for supporting his administration’s reforms and encouraging Nigerians to remain patient through the economic adjustment period.

    Shettima Praises Tinubu’s Courage

    Vice President Kashim Shettima described the reforms as a bold effort to address long-standing structural problems in the country.

    “You chose not to postpone the surgery. You chose not to massage the wound. You chose to confront the contradictions that have held this country hostage for 50 years,” Shettima said.

    He added that the administration was engaged in the difficult task of rebuilding and repositioning the nation for long-term growth.

    Governors Back Tinubu’s Policies

    Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and Governor of Kwara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, said the reforms had improved state finances and reduced dependence on borrowing.

    “I think the nation was shocked by the audacity of Mr President to implement that serious policy, but today, it has benefited immensely from that policy,” he said.

    Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma also praised Tinubu’s performance, claiming that governors had assessed the administration positively.

    “You have virtually recovered Nigeria from the brink of collapse to a state of stability and survival,” Uzodinma said.

    Several governors attended the meeting, including those from Lagos, Ogun, Enugu, Delta, Edo, Ondo, Ekiti, Niger, Sokoto, Kebbi, Jigawa, Nasarawa, Taraba, Adamawa, Benue and Kogi states.

  • Petrol Price Jumps To ₦1,532 Per Litre as Diesel Soars 50% in One Month – NBS

    The average retail price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), popularly known as petrol, rose sharply to ₦1,532.93 per litre in April 2026, according to the latest Price Watch report released by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).

    The figure represents an 18.97 per cent increase from the ₦1,288.54 recorded in March, highlighting the continued pressure on fuel consumers across the country.

    Petrol Records Major Increase

    The NBS report also showed that petrol prices increased by 23.69 per cent on a year-on-year basis, compared to the ₦1,239.33 average recorded in April 2025.

    The latest data underscores the impact of rising energy costs on transportation, businesses, and household spending nationwide.

    Yobe, Edo Top Petrol Price Chart

    State-by-state analysis revealed that Yobe recorded the highest average petrol price at ₦1,599.05 per litre.

    Edo followed closely with ₦1,595.74, while Bauchi recorded ₦1,589.07 per litre.

    On the other hand, Niger State posted the lowest average retail price at ₦1,403.89 per litre. Sokoto and Katsina followed with ₦1,404.16 and ₦1,406.28 respectively.

    South-South Records Highest Regional Cost

    Regional analysis showed that the South-South zone recorded the highest average petrol price in April at ₦1,566.76 per litre.

    The North-West zone had the lowest average retail price at ₦1,508.81 per litre.

    Diesel Price Surges By 50 Per Cent

    The NBS also reported a dramatic increase in the price of Automotive Gas Oil (diesel), which climbed by 50.16 per cent month-on-month.

    Diesel rose from an average of ₦1,648.06 per litre in March to ₦2,474.69 per litre in April.

    Compared to April 2025, diesel prices increased by 43.67 per cent from ₦1,722.45 per litre.

    Nasarawa, Ebonyi Record Highest Diesel Prices

    Nasarawa State recorded the highest average diesel price at ₦2,818.94 per litre.

    Ebonyi followed at ₦2,754.06, while Taraba recorded ₦2,704.76 per litre.

    Kebbi posted the lowest average diesel price at ₦2,180.28 per litre, followed by Kogi at ₦2,192.70 and Katsina at ₦2,269.14.

    The North-East zone recorded the highest regional average diesel price at ₦2,603.00 per litre, while the North-West had the lowest at ₦2,409.34.

    Global Factors Driving Fuel Costs

    Energy analysts attribute the sharp increases in petrol and diesel prices to rising geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.

    The uncertainty surrounding key global oil supply routes, particularly the Strait of Hormuz, has contributed to volatility in international crude oil prices, increasing landing costs and ultimately pushing up retail fuel prices in Nigeria.

  • Abducted Oyo School Principal Pleads for Government Action in Viral Captivity Video

    A viral video showing Mrs Rachael Alamu, the abducted principal of Community High School, Esiele in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, has intensified public concern over the continued captivity of teachers and students kidnapped in the region.

    The 72-second clip, shared on X, shows the visibly distressed school principal appealing directly to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, and education stakeholders to urgently intervene and secure their release.

    Abducted Principal Speaks From Captivity

    In the video, Mrs Alamu, appearing weakened and emotional, said she and other victims had spent days in harsh conditions since their abduction.

    “We have been picked from work and still now we are sitting in the bush,” she said, pleading for urgent rescue efforts.

    She also called for negotiation with the abductors rather than force, stressing that the situation required immediate dialogue to save lives.

    “We are in the cold, under sun, rain. The children as well. Please don’t let them waste our lives,” she added.

    Renewed Pressure on Government and Security Agencies

    The video emerged on the same day education workers and stakeholders in Oyo State staged peaceful demonstrations in Ibadan and Ogbomoso, demanding urgent rescue operations for the abducted victims.

    Reports indicate that the May 15 attack on schools in the Ahoro-Esiele community led to the killing of a mathematics teacher and the abduction of about 39 students and seven teachers.

    Victims reportedly include very young children, heightening national outrage over the scale of the attack.

    Ongoing Rescue Operations

    As of May 29, 2026, no official rescue has been confirmed, despite coordinated operations involving the military, police, Nigerian Air Force, and local vigilantes.

    Governor Seyi Makinde has assured residents that security agencies are working round the clock to secure the release of the victims, while federal authorities continue to monitor the situation.

    Security sources say operations remain active in the affected forest corridors, though details are being restricted for operational reasons.

    Public Outrage and Growing Security Concerns

    The viral video has triggered widespread reactions across social media, with Nigerians expressing frustration over the prolonged captivity and the persistence of school kidnappings in the country.

    Many have called for faster intervention, improved intelligence operations, and stronger protection for schools in vulnerable areas.

    The incident adds to growing concerns over insecurity in parts of Nigeria, particularly attacks targeting educational institutions, which have continued to raise fears among parents and communities.

    Authorities have urged calm while assuring that efforts to rescue the abducted victims are ongoing.

  • VeryDarkMan Kneels in Viral Video, Urges Nigerians to Reject APC, Tinubu in 2027 Election

    Controversial social media activist Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), has stirred nationwide reactions after releasing a viral video in which he knelt to urge Nigerians not to vote for the All Progressives Congress (APC) or President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 general elections.

    The video, which has continued to circulate widely on X (formerly Twitter), shows the activist in an emotional appeal where he denies allegations of being aligned with the ruling party and insists he is speaking from a position of criticism.

    VDM’s Emotional Appeal Goes Viral

    In the nearly four-minute video, VDM is seen kneeling as he addresses Nigerians directly, urging them to reconsider their political choices ahead of the next general election.

    “I’m sure all of you have seen posts or tweets where they said I’m working for APC, but now I’m coming to beg all Nigerians not to vote for Tinubu, don’t vote for my supposed employers,” he said.

    He further urged citizens to reject financial inducements during elections, warning that such decisions could worsen insecurity and hardship in the country.

    “They’ll come and give you 5k and bags of rice but when people get kidnapped, Boko Haram would not ask for 5k or bags of rice. Use your sense, DO NOT VOTE FOR APC,” he added.

    Call for PVC Participation and Electoral Awareness

    The activist also called on Nigerians, especially residents in rural communities, to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and actively participate in the electoral process.

    He argued that voting remains a stronger form of civic engagement than protests, urging citizens to take elections seriously as a tool for change.

    VDM maintained that continued support for the current administration would worsen insecurity, economic hardship, and governance challenges across the country.

    Mixed Reactions Trail Viral Video

    The video, posted by X user @dammiedammie35, has generated thousands of engagements, including likes, reposts, and comments within hours of circulation.

    While some Nigerians praised VDM for speaking boldly and expressing public frustration, others accused him of clout-chasing or questioned the intent behind his message. Supporters of the APC also dismissed his remarks.

    The development reflects growing political tension online as conversations around the 2027 elections intensify, alongside voter registration campaigns and national debates on governance.

    Ongoing Political Context

    VDM has been consistently vocal on issues of insecurity, economic hardship, and governance in Nigeria, often clashing with political figures and government representatives over his criticisms.

    As of the time of filing this report, neither the APC nor the Presidency has issued an official response to the video.

    The clip continues to trend across social media platforms amid broader discussions on Nigeria’s political direction ahead of 2027.

  • Oyo Teachers Stage Solidarity Walk in Ibadan Over Abducted Students, Demand Immediate Rescue

    Hundreds of teachers in Oyo State on Friday staged a peaceful solidarity walk in Ibadan, demanding the immediate release of students, pupils, and colleagues abducted during the May 15 attack on schools in Oriire Local Government Area.

    The protest, organised under the Oyo Teachers Action Group with support from the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) and civil society organisations, highlighted growing frustration over the continued captivity of victims more than two weeks after the incident.

    Teachers March Through Ibadan

    The demonstrators gathered at the Item 7 axis of Iwo Road and marched towards the Oyo State Secretariat, carrying placards and chanting solidarity songs as they called for urgent government action.

    Placards displayed messages such as “Bring Back Our School Children and Colleagues,” “Teachers’ Lives Matter,” and “Enough is Enough,” reflecting mounting public anger over repeated school attacks in the state.

    Security operatives were seen monitoring the procession, while the protest reportedly remained peaceful and did not disrupt traffic flow in the area.

    Wider Spread of Solidarity Actions

    Similar coordinated demonstrations were also reported in other parts of the state, including Ogbomoso, Iseyin, and Oyo town, as pressure builds on authorities to secure the release of abducted victims.

    Organisers warned that further actions could follow if there is no progress in rescue efforts, including the possibility of school closures in affected areas.

    Background of Oriire School Attack

    The protest is linked to the May 15 attack in the Ahoro-Esiele area of Oriire LGA, where armed gunmen stormed multiple schools, killing at least one teacher and abducting several students and staff.

    Reports indicate that about 39 students and seven teachers were taken during the attack, with victims including very young children.

    Since the incident, no official rescue has been confirmed despite ongoing joint operations involving the military, police, Amotekun, and local vigilantes.

    Government Response and Ongoing Operations

    Governor Seyi Makinde has repeatedly assured residents that security agencies are conducting round-the-clock operations to secure the victims’ release using both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches.

    A recent video from one of the abducted teachers, Mrs Rachael Alamu, had earlier gone viral, in which she pleaded for negotiation and urgent intervention from authorities.

    Authorities continue to urge calm while assuring that intelligence-led operations are ongoing to rescue the victims safely.

    The protest underscores growing public anxiety over school safety in Oyo State and renewed calls for stronger security measures around educational institutions.

  • Aisha Yesufu Withdraws From NDC FCT Senate Race After Party Halts Primaries

    Prominent activist Aisha Yesufu has stepped down from the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) senatorial race for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) after the party reportedly decided not to hold primaries for the seat.

    The development, confirmed on Friday, effectively ends her short-lived ambition to contest for the FCT senatorial ticket ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    Party Decision Alters Political Calculations

    According to Yesufu, the NDC leadership resolved not to conduct internal elections for the senatorial seat in the FCT, a decision that automatically reshaped the contest within the party.

    She noted that while senatorial primaries were suspended, the party would still proceed with House of Representatives primaries in the FCT.

    “Our party has decided not to conduct primaries for the Senatorial seat in FCT Abuja. It however intends to conduct primaries for House of Representatives! Go ahead and make your choice known!” she said.

    Supporters Urged to Remain Focused

    Despite stepping back from the race, Yesufu urged her supporters not to lose focus, stressing that the broader political goal ahead of 2027 remains unchanged.

    She encouraged members of her support base to continue mobilising around wider electoral participation, particularly at the presidential level.

    “I urge each and everyone of you to remain calm and focus on the bigger picture which is the presidential election. Nigeria will be OK!” she added.

    Campaign Movement and Grassroots Engagement

    Yesufu also expressed appreciation to supporters of the #AishaForSenate movement, describing their backing as encouraging during her brief campaign period.

    She said she would continue her engagements across the six area councils of the FCT, promising to sustain her advocacy and grassroots outreach despite withdrawing from the race.

    “In the coming week I will be returning back to all the 6 Area Councils God willing to appreciate them for the warm welcome and continue to forge ahead for a #BetterFCT,” she said.

    Political Realignments Within NDC

    Yesufu had only recently declared her intention to contest the FCT Senate seat on May 6, shortly after joining the NDC from the African Democratic Congress (ADC), citing a desire to participate more directly in political leadership.

    Her withdrawal comes amid speculation of internal realignments within the party over the FCT senatorial structure, although the NDC has not issued an official clarification.

    The development adds another layer to early political positioning ahead of the 2027 general elections, as parties continue internal restructuring and candidate selection processes.

  • Verydarkman Slams Tinubu Over Insecurity Response, Calls for Urgent Action

    Social media critic Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, has criticised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over his handling of Nigeria’s worsening insecurity situation, following recent comments by the president on national security concerns.

    The activist expressed frustration in a video shared online, saying Nigerians expected clear answers and actionable solutions to rising cases of kidnappings, attacks, and violent crimes across the country.

    VeryDarkMan Questions Presidential Response

    VeryDarkMan argued that the president failed to directly address the severity of insecurity during his recent remarks, instead referencing religious narratives, which he said did not reflect the urgency of the situation.

    According to him, the government appears overwhelmed by the scale of insecurity affecting different parts of the country, especially communities impacted by banditry and abductions.

    He insisted that citizens were looking for concrete steps to restore safety rather than what he described as indirect messaging.

    Concerns Over Rising Insecurity

    The activist also warned about the growing threat posed by armed groups operating in various regions, stressing the need for stronger leadership and immediate intervention.

    He said insecurity has reached a level where schoolchildren, teachers and rural communities remain vulnerable to repeated attacks, raising concerns about public trust in government protection.

    Call for Stronger Government Action

    VeryDarkMan further called for urgent and decisive action from the federal government, arguing that national security should remain a top priority.

    He claimed that failure to respond effectively could worsen the situation if not properly addressed.

    His remarks have since sparked reactions online, with supporters agreeing with his concerns while critics argue that his tone was too extreme.

    The video continues to circulate across social media as discussions around insecurity and government response intensify.