Author: Promise Odejide

  • Katsina Govt Approves ₦3.8bn Loan to Secure 3,890 Hajj Slots for Pilgrims

    The Katsina State Government has approved a ₦3.8 billion loan facility to secure 3,890 Hajj slots for intending pilgrims from the state ahead of the 2026 pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia.

    Governor Dikko Radda disclosed this during the official farewell ceremony for Katsina pilgrims departing for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

    Radda Explains Reason for Loan Approval

    According to the governor, the intervention became necessary after the state encountered financial difficulties in meeting its allocated Hajj slots through the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON).

    The Katsina State governor stated that the loan approval would ensure that all allocated pilgrims from the state participate fully in the 2026 Hajj exercise.

    The Katsina Hajj loan approval has already attracted attention in latest Nigerian news as discussions continue around government spending and pilgrimage welfare.

    Pilgrims to Receive $500 Allowance

    Governor Dikko Radda also announced several welfare packages for intending pilgrims from the state.

    According to him, each pilgrim will receive a $500 allowance to assist with basic needs during their stay in Saudi Arabia.

    He further disclosed that the Katsina State Government would sponsor Hadaya for all pilgrims as part of measures to improve their welfare throughout the Hajj exercise.

    “Each pilgrim will receive a $500 allowance to cover basic needs in Saudi Arabia,” Radda stated.

    200 Officials Deployed for Hajj Operations

    The governor also revealed that 200 officials had been deployed to provide medical support, spiritual guidance, and logistical assistance during the pilgrimage.

    “All officials have been carefully selected and equipped to support pilgrims throughout the pilgrimage,” he said.

    Radda added that his administration had strengthened the operations of the Katsina State Pilgrims Welfare Board to improve efficiency and reduce challenges experienced in previous exercises.

    The latest Katsina Hajj update has continued trending in breaking news Nigeria today as preparations intensify for the 2026 pilgrimage.

    Governor Urges Discipline Among Pilgrims

    Governor Radda urged intending pilgrims to pray for peace, unity, and improved security in Katsina State and Nigeria while in the Holy Land.

    He also advised pilgrims to conduct themselves responsibly and avoid spreading misinformation during the pilgrimage exercise.

    “Many people sold personal belongings to perform Hajj. You are expected to show the highest level of discipline, patience, and mutual respect,” the governor said.

    Radda further stated that his administration had improved accommodation and feeding arrangements for Katsina pilgrims in Saudi Arabia after personally inspecting facilities during previous Hajj operations.

  • Rivers APC Disqualifies 65 Aspirants Ahead of 2027 Primaries

    The Rivers State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has released the list of aspirants cleared and disqualified ahead of the party’s primaries for the 2027 general elections.

    According to the party, 33 aspirants were cleared to participate in the primaries, while 65 others failed to scale through the screening process.

    Fubara’s Alleged Loyalists Disqualified

    Notably, all 32 aspirants reportedly linked to the political camp of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara were disqualified from the exercise.

    Meanwhile, incumbent members of the Rivers State House of Assembly believed to be loyal to Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike were cleared by the screening committee.

    The Rivers APC screening outcome has already generated widespread reactions in latest Nigerian politics news due to the ongoing political tension within the state.

    APC Announces Appeal Process

    In a statement issued by the Rivers APC Publicity Secretary, Chibike Ikenga, aspirants were advised to verify their screening status at the party’s state secretariat located along Aba Road in Port Harcourt.

    Ikenga further disclosed that aggrieved aspirants could submit appeals through the party secretariat.

    According to him, the appeal process is scheduled for Tuesday, May 12, by 10 a.m. at the APC state secretariat.

    The Rivers political crisis has continued dominating breaking news Nigeria today as political alignments ahead of the 2027 elections intensify.

    Reasons for Disqualification Released

    A report released by the screening committee listed several reasons for the disqualification of affected aspirants.

    The committee cited issues including failure to provide valid party membership documents, conflicting dates of birth, unsworn affidavits, invalid NECO-related affidavits, and failure to present voter cards.

    Other reasons reportedly included irregular party membership details, insufficient nominators across wards, and failure by nominators to confirm payment of membership dues.

    The committee also accused some aspirants of attempted inducement and bribery of screening officials during the process.

    Political Tension Deepens in Rivers APC

    The latest development is expected to further deepen political tensions within the Rivers APC, especially amid the ongoing power struggle involving camps loyal to Governor Siminalayi Fubara and former governor Nyesom Wike.

    Political observers believe the screening outcome could significantly shape the balance of power within the party ahead of the 2027 general elections in Rivers State.

  • Trump Rejects Iran’s Peace Conditions, Says Proposal ‘Totally Unacceptable’

    United States President Donald Trump has rejected Iran’s latest conditions aimed at ending the ongoing Middle East conflict, describing Tehran’s response to Washington’s proposal as “totally unacceptable.”

    The development has heightened concerns over renewed hostilities in the Middle East following weeks of diplomatic negotiations between both countries.

    Trump Reacts to Iran’s Response

    Trump made the remarks on Sunday in a post shared on his Truth Social platform while reacting to Iran’s reported counterproposal.

    “I have just read the response from Iran’s so-called ‘Representatives.’ I don’t like it — TOTALLY UNACCEPTABLE!” Trump wrote.

    Although the US president did not reveal specific details of Iran’s demands, reports indicated that Tehran requested guarantees regarding its enriched uranium stockpile and broader regional security issues.

    The Donald Trump and Iran conflict has since become one of the most discussed topics in latest world news amid fears of another escalation in the region.

    Iran Maintains Defiant Position

    Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian insisted that Tehran would not surrender despite ongoing diplomatic discussions.

    “We will never bow down to the enemy, and if there is talk of dialogue or negotiation, it does not mean surrender or retreat,” Pezeshkian posted on X.

    According to reports from Iranian state broadcaster IRIB, Tehran’s response was reportedly delivered to Washington through Pakistani mediators.

    The proposal allegedly focused on ending fighting across multiple fronts, including tensions involving Hezbollah in Lebanon, while also seeking guarantees over maritime security.

    Netanyahu Insists Iran’s Nuclear Programme Must End

    Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also maintained a hardline position, stating that the conflict could not end until Iran’s nuclear facilities were dismantled completely.

    “It’s not over, because there’s still nuclear material, enriched uranium, that has to be taken out of Iran,” Netanyahu said during an interview with CBS’s “60 Minutes.”

    Reports by The Wall Street Journal further claimed that Iran proposed diluting part of its enriched uranium stockpile while transferring the remaining materials to a third country under certain guarantees.

    The negotiations reportedly included demands that the material be returned if future agreements collapsed or if the United States withdrew from the arrangement.

    Oil Prices Rise Amid Middle East Tensions

    The crisis reportedly began on February 28 following a joint operation involving the United States and Israel against Iran, an attack said to have resulted in the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader and several senior officials.

    The continuing deadlock has already impacted global markets, with oil prices reportedly rising by more than $4 per barrel on Monday amid fears surrounding the Strait of Hormuz.

    Before the conflict escalated, the strategic waterway reportedly handled nearly one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments.

    The latest Middle East conflict update has continued dominating breaking world news as global powers monitor the growing diplomatic and security tensions between Washington and Tehran.

  • Trump’s Anti-Lockdown Video Resurfaces Amid Hantavirus Discussions

    A video of United States President Donald Trump speaking against lockdowns, mask mandates, and vaccine requirements has resurfaced online amid growing conversations surrounding recent hantavirus cases.

    The viral clip began trending shortly after reports emerged about confirmed hantavirus cases linked to a cruise ship sailing in the Atlantic Ocean.

    Trump Rejects Lockdowns, Mandates

    In the resurfaced video, Donald Trump criticised what he described as attempts to revive COVID-era restrictions through fear and public panic.

    “The left-wing lunatics are trying very hard to bring back COVID lockdowns and mandates with all of their sudden fear-mongering. These are bad people. These are sick people we’re dealing with,” Trump said.

    The US president also insisted that Americans would not accept another round of lockdowns or mandatory restrictions.

    “But to every COVID tyrant who wants to take away our freedom, hear these words: We will not comply. So don’t even think about it,” he added.

    The resurfaced Donald Trump video has since become one of the most discussed topics in latest world news and health discussions online.

    “We Will Not Accept Your Lockdown”

    Trump further stated that schools and public institutions should not face closure again because of health-related fears.

    “We will not shut down our schools. We will not accept your lockdown. We will not abide by your mask mandates,” he said.

    “And we will not tolerate your vaccine mandates.”

    The comments have reignited debates across social media, especially among users discussing public health policies and government restrictions.

    Trump Warns Institutions Over Mandates

    In the same video, Trump warned that schools, airlines, colleges, and public transportation systems enforcing vaccine or mask mandates could lose federal support.

    “I will use every available authority to cut federal funding to any school, college, airline or public transportation system that imposes a mask mandate or a vaccine mandate,” he stated.

    The clip has continued circulating widely as conversations around hantavirus cases, public health concerns, and COVID-era restrictions trend online once again.

  • “I Don’t Want Marriage” — Speed Darlington Offers ₦5m to Any Woman Willing to Have His Child

    Controversial Nigerian singer Speed Darlington has triggered reactions online after revealing that he is willing to pay ₦5 million to any woman ready to have a child for him.

    The entertainer stated that although he wants to become a father, he has no interest in getting married.

    Speed Darlington Speaks on Fatherhood Plans

    Speaking in a viral video, Speed Darlington disclosed that he had previously offered ₦3 million two years ago but was not satisfied with the people he met at the time.

    According to him, he has now increased the offer to ₦5 million in search of a woman willing to have his child.

    “I was offering ₦3 million two years ago, but I didn’t like the age range of the people I met. Now, I’m willing to pay ₦5 million to any lady willing to have a child for me,” he said.

    The singer’s comments have since become one of the trending topics in latest Nigerian entertainment news after the video surfaced online.

    Singer Says He Is Not Interested in Marriage

    Speed Darlington stressed that marriage is not part of his plans despite his desire to become a father.

    He added that the woman involved would still have access to the child after birth.

    “I don’t want marriage, however, you can always come and see the child anytime you want,” he stated.

    The controversial musician also revealed that he prefers a woman between the ages of 20 and 24.

    Comments Spark Reactions Online

    The singer further stated that he would rather have a child with someone from a financially struggling background than from a wealthy family.

    His comments immediately sparked mixed reactions across social media, with many Nigerians debating his statements and preferences.

    The viral video has continued trending in breaking news Nigeria today as users share different opinions about the singer’s unusual approach to fatherhood.

  • “Go to Amaku Hospital” — Soludo Challenges Pastors Claiming to Perform Miracles

    Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Soludo has challenged pastors and religious leaders who claim to perform miracles to demonstrate their powers at Amaku General Hospital.

    The Anambra governor made the statement during a church event while speaking about his administration’s efforts to regulate religious activities in the state.

    Soludo Speaks on ‘Fake Pastors and Bishops’

    According to Soludo, several individuals described as “fake pastors and bishops” have already been arrested as part of ongoing actions aimed at sanitising religious practices in Anambra State.

    The governor stated that those who truly possess healing powers should visit hospitals where sick people are receiving treatment.

    “We’ve arrested f@ke pastors and bishops. Whoever wants to perform a miracle should come to Amaku Hospital,” Soludo said.

    The comments from the Anambra State governor quickly became one of the most discussed topics in latest Nigerian news after clips from the event surfaced online.

    Mixed Reactions Trail Soludo’s Comments

    The viral statement has generated mixed reactions across social media, with many Nigerians debating Soludo’s position on miracle claims and religious activities.

    Some users supported the governor’s comments, while others criticised him for focusing on religious matters instead of governance and infrastructure.

    One user, identified as @CMichael62570, wrote: “Trying to shift people’s attention from the real things that matters.”

    Another user, @Mekx007, commented: “Hope he arrested odumeje as well lol. Oga focus on your task as a governor.”

    The controversy has continued trending in breaking news Nigeria today as reactions from both supporters and critics continue spreading online.

    Debate Over Religion, Governance Continues

    Other social media users argued that spiritual miracles cannot be treated like scientific demonstrations, while some questioned the governor’s approach toward religious leaders.

    The latest remarks from Chukwuma Soludo have once again sparked conversations around religion in Nigeria, miracle claims, and government involvement in spiritual matters.

  • Lagos Govt Shuts Eko Bridge Indefinitely Over Safety Concerns

    The Lagos State Government has announced the indefinite closure of the Eko Bridge outbound carriageway heading toward Lagos Island over safety concerns and ongoing repair investigations.

    The Eko Bridge closure in Lagos is expected to begin on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, according to state authorities.

    Lagos Govt Announces Eko Bridge Closure

    The announcement was made on Sunday by the Lagos State Commissioner for Transportation, Oluwaseun Osiyemi.

    According to the commissioner, the shutdown became necessary to allow investigations and rehabilitation work to commence on the affected section of the bridge.

    The latest Lagos traffic update has already sparked reactions among motorists and commuters who regularly use the busy route connecting different parts of the state.

    Motorists Advised to Use Alternative Routes

    Oluwaseun Osiyemi advised road users to make use of alternative routes during the repair period to avoid severe traffic delays.

    Motorists travelling through Apongbon and Ijora Olopa have specifically been directed to use the Third Mainland Bridge to access Lagos Island and nearby destinations.

    The Lagos State Government also assured residents that traffic officials and security operatives would be deployed around affected areas to manage movement and reduce congestion.

    “Adequate traffic and security personnel will be deployed along alternative routes to guide motorists and ensure smooth traffic flow,” the commissioner stated.

    The Eko Bridge rehabilitation work has now become one of the biggest talking points in latest Lagos news due to concerns over traffic gridlock and commuting challenges.

    Inward Section of Eko Bridge Remains Open

    Despite the indefinite closure of the outbound section, the Lagos State Government clarified that the inward Lagos Island carriageway of the bridge will remain open to motorists.

    Authorities further assured residents that efforts would be made to minimise disruption during the repair process.

    The development comes amid increasing infrastructure rehabilitation projects across Lagos State as the government continues maintenance works on major roads and bridges.

  • Ilebaye’s Father Speaks on Viral Family Crisis, Makes Fresh Allegations Against BBNaija Star

    The father of former Big Brother Naija winner Ilebaye has finally spoken out following the viral domestic abuse allegations involving him and his daughter.

    The development comes days after the BBNaija star trended online over a disturbing incident that sparked concern across Nigerian social media platforms.

    Ilebaye’s Father Speaks on Relationship With Daughter

    Speaking in a viral video, Ilebaye’s father claimed the issues between them started shortly after she emerged winner of the Big Brother Naija reality show.

    According to him, the reality star allegedly became difficult to control despite the support he claimed to have given her during her time in the BBNaija house.

    “Ilebaye’s issue started after she left the Big Brother house. What led to the incident wasn’t that I didn’t love my daughter, and she is one of my best children,” he said.

    “During her time on BBNaija, I contributed a lot and stood by my daughter and made sure people voted for her massively.”

    The latest comments from Ilebaye’s father have continued dominating latest Nigerian entertainment news following the earlier viral rescue incident in Abuja.

    Father Alleges Repeated Confrontations

    The father further alleged that he repeatedly warned Ilebaye about some of her lifestyle choices and the company she kept after leaving the reality show.

    He claimed arguments between both of them became more frequent over time, alleging that the reality star often insulted him whenever he tried correcting her.

    According to him, one confrontation allegedly became physical.

    “One day she took AC anger and hit me with it till blood started gushing out of my body. If I am running after her, instead of her to run away, my daughter will face me as if she wants to beat me,” he alleged.

    The allegations have since generated widespread reactions online, with many Nigerians expressing shock over the growing family controversy.

    Claims Over Financial Support, Younger Brother

    Ilebaye’s father also expressed disappointment over what he described as her refusal to assist him financially despite her success after BBNaija.

    He recalled allegedly requesting financial support for a medical trip to Dubai, claiming she declined to help him.

    In another allegation, he accused the reality star of negatively influencing one of her younger brothers with hard substances, a situation he claimed eventually led to the teenager being expelled from school.

    The viral interview has further intensified conversations surrounding the BBNaija winner, family disputes, and domestic conflict, making it one of the most discussed stories in breaking news Nigeria today.

  • Several Feared Dead as Military Airstrike Hits Niger Community During Bandit Operation

    An unconfirmed number of civilians have reportedly been killed following an aerial bombardment on Guradnayi community near Kusasu in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State.

    The military airstrike in Niger State reportedly occurred on Sunday morning during an operation targeting armed bandits believed to have invaded communities in the area.

    Bandits Reportedly Invaded Communities

    Sources said the bandits, said to be over 500 in number, were spotted moving through several communities after allegedly entering from neighbouring Zamfara State and Birnin Gwari area of Kaduna State.

    Residents of Kuchi, Chibani, Zagzaga and surrounding communities in Munya Local Government Area reportedly fled their homes after noticing the movement of the heavily armed men.

    The exact destination of the bandits was not immediately known at the time of filing this report.

    Civilians Feared Killed During Airstrike

    Community sources confirmed that the Nigerian Air Force reportedly launched an operation targeting the bandits after intelligence gathered their movement around Kusasu community.

    One source said the bandits had spent Saturday night in Kusasu before moving toward Chibani and Zagzaga communities.

    “A swift reaction from the Air Force actually invaded the area and while targeting the bandits in Kusasu on Saturday, some civilians lost their lives but we are yet to ascertain the number of civilians killed,” the source said.

    The source further claimed that several houses were affected during the operation, leading to civilian casualties in the community.

    The reported Niger State airstrike has since sparked concern among residents already dealing with insecurity and repeated bandit attacks.

    Over 500 Bandits Reportedly Spotted

    Another resident alleged that the armed men moved from village to village without abducting anyone but were suspected to be targeting cattle in nearby communities.

    Chairman of Munya Local Government Area, Aminu Najume, also confirmed the invasion, stating that the bandits entered through Chukun Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

    “The bandits, from what we saw, were over 500 in number and with this development, many people have relocated from their homes for fear of being attacked,” he said.

    He further disclosed that the attackers had already started rustling cows and other livestock in affected communities.

    Security Presence Increased in Affected Areas

    Sources said security operatives have now been deployed to the affected communities following the incident.

    The latest development has also revived conversations around accidental military airstrikes in Shiroro communities, where several civilian deaths have previously been reported during anti-bandit operations.

    In 2022, reports claimed that a Nigerian Air Force fighter jet mistakenly killed six minors in Kurebe village, while another military airstrike months later reportedly left eight civilians dead in the same area.

  • 2027: Six Kano Aspirants Step Down for Ibrahim Shekarau Ahead of Senate Race

    Six senatorial aspirants from Kano State have reportedly withdrawn their ambitions in support of former governor and senator, Ibrahim Shekarau, ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    The political development has already generated attention in latest Nigerian politics news as realignments continue ahead of the 2027 elections.

    Governor Abba Yusuf Hosts Key Political Meeting

    The decision was reportedly reached during a high-level political meeting convened by Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf in Abuja.

    Sources said the meeting lasted for several hours before all parties involved agreed to support Ibrahim Shekarau’s senatorial ambition.

    The aspirants who reportedly stepped down include Usman Bala, Sha’aban Sharada, Muhammad Zango, Danyaro Yakasai, Abbas Sani Abbas, and Shehu Isa Driver.

    Aspirants Back Shekarau for Unity

    Speaking with journalists after the meeting, the aspirants said their withdrawal was aimed at promoting unity, peace, and political stability in Kano State ahead of the 2027 elections.

    According to them, backing Ibrahim Shekarau formed part of broader efforts to strengthen political harmony within the state.

    The endorsement of the former Kano governor has since become one of the major talking points in breaking news Nigeria today, especially within northern political circles.

    Shekarau Speaks on Political Decision

    Addressing supporters after the meeting, Ibrahim Shekarau reportedly said the decision was reached after careful consideration of the political situation and available options.

    He also sought the opinion of those present regarding the move and received unanimous support from attendees, signalling collective endorsement of the arrangement.

    The former governor remains one of the most influential political figures in Kano State due to his long-standing grassroots support and political structure.

    Former Kano Governor Still Influential

    Ibrahim Shekarau rose to national prominence after serving as governor of Kano State between 2003 and 2011 under the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP).

    His administration was widely linked to education reforms, infrastructure expansion, and policies centred on social welfare and Islamic principles.

    After leaving office as governor, Shekarau represented Kano Central in the Senate and later served as Minister of Education under former President Goodluck Jonathan.

    Despite several political realignments over the years, the former governor has remained a major force in Kano politics, with strong influence across party lines ahead of the 2027 general elections.