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Author: Promise Odejide

  • Makinde Slams INEC Over ‘Hasty’ ADC Leadership Update Without Supreme Court CTC

    Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has criticised the Independent National Electoral Commission for updating the African Democratic Congress leadership on its website without a Certified True Copy of the Supreme Court judgment.

    He said the move raises concerns about due process and institutional credibility.

    Governor questions INEC’s action

    Speaking with journalists on Monday, Makinde said the commission acted prematurely by reflecting changes without sighting the official court document.

    “Nobody has seen the CTC… we were surprised that INEC went ahead to update the ADC leadership,” he said.

    He added that such a step by a national institution could undermine confidence in its operations.

    Warning over dangerous precedent

    Makinde cautioned that acting on unverified information could set a troubling standard.

    “What it means is somebody can whisper a court judgment and then they will go ahead and update that,” he said.

    He insisted that a professionally run organisation should rely strictly on verified documents before taking decisions.

    PDP defends interim committee

    The governor also addressed concerns surrounding the newly formed Interim National Management Committee within the Peoples Democratic Party.

    He maintained that the committee was properly constituted in line with the party’s constitution.

    “If you go to the constitution of the PDP… two-thirds of that membership came here. So it is legally constituted,” he stated.

    Party to engage INEC

    Makinde said the PDP would formally communicate its position to INEC and expects the commission to uphold democratic principles.

    “We will write to INEC… and allow the democratic space to accommodate opposition,” he said.

    He reaffirmed the party’s resolve to push for a stronger opposition, describing the situation as part of a broader struggle for democratic balance.

    “We will not give up… this is a battle for democracy,” he added.

    The remarks followed the PDP’s 103rd National Executive Committee meeting, where an interim committee was inaugurated to manage the party’s affairs amid ongoing leadership disputes.

  • NNPC Signs Deal with Chinese Firms to Revive Port Harcourt, Warri Refineries

    The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited has signed a memorandum of understanding with two Chinese firms to explore the completion and operation of the Port Harcourt and Warri refineries.

    The agreement, disclosed in a statement dated May 3, 2026, marks a fresh step in efforts to restore Nigeria’s refining capacity.

    MoU signed in China

    According to NNPC, the MoU was signed on April 30, 2026, in Jiaxing City, China.

    The deal was executed by NNPC Group Chief Executive Officer, Bashir Bayo Ojulari, alongside Guan Jianzhong of Sanjiang Chemical Company and Bill Bi of Xinganchen Industrial Park.

    The partnership is expected to focus on completing outstanding rehabilitation work and supporting the operation and maintenance of both refineries.

    Focus on expansion, cleaner fuel

    NNPC said the collaboration would also explore expansion and upgrade options for the facilities.

    This includes plans to meet cleaner fuel standards, improve profitability and increase petrochemical production.

    The arrangement is further expected to support the development of gas-based industrial hubs around the refineries.

    Ojulari described the agreement as a significant milestone after months of negotiations.

    “All parties recognise mutually beneficial opportunities for the development and long-term sustainability of NNPC’s refining assets,” he said.

    Agreement not yet final

    The NNPC boss clarified that the MoU is non-binding and subject to regulatory approvals and further negotiations.

    He added that it is part of broader efforts to secure technical partners for the rehabilitation and long-term management of Nigeria’s refining infrastructure.

    Background on refinery projects

    The Port Harcourt refinery rehabilitation was approved in 2021 at a cost of about $1.5 billion to restore its 210,000 barrels per day capacity.

    Similarly, the Warri refinery is undergoing upgrades valued at around $897 million to revive its 125,000 barrels per day capacity and integrate petrochemical production.

    The Port Harcourt facility briefly resumed operations in late 2024 after years of shutdown but was later halted again due to operational and financial issues.

    The projects are part of NNPC’s wider strategy to reduce dependence on imported petroleum products and strengthen local refining capacity.

  • ‘Governor Amuneke’ Rejects INEC Ambassador Role, Cites Restriction on Criticism

    Nigerian skitmaker Kevin Chinedu, popularly known for his “Governor Amuneke” persona, has turned down an offer to serve as a youth ambassador for the Independent National Electoral Commission, citing concerns over restrictions on his content.

    The content creator disclosed his decision in a video shared online, explaining that the conditions attached to the role conflicted with his platform.

    Excitement turns to concern

    Amuneke said he initially welcomed the offer with excitement, describing it as a major honour.

    He noted that the opportunity meant engaging young Nigerians on civic duties such as voter registration and participation in elections.

    “This is supposed to be a national honour… it brought me tears of joy when I thought about how far I have come,” he said.

    Condition that changed everything

    According to him, the turning point came after he sought clarification on whether he could continue criticising INEC while serving in the role.

    He said he was informed that while he could promote voter education and continue content creation, direct criticism of the commission would not be allowed.

    “They told me I can still create content and even preach about PVCs… however, I cannot criticise directly INEC,” he said.

    ‘I cannot box my voice’

    The skitmaker said the condition undermines the essence of his work, which focuses on political satire and holding institutions accountable.

    “The moment I heard that, what seemed like congratulations disappeared… I wish it did not come with conditions to box my voice,” he said.

    He added that his content is driven by real-life experiences and the struggles of ordinary Nigerians.

    Message to fellow creators

    Amuneke urged other content creators to remain true to their platforms and avoid compromising their voices.

    “If you have a platform… remember there are millions of people whose hope is on that voice,” he said.

    He, however, expressed appreciation for the recognition, stating that he remains open to collaborations that do not restrict his expression.

     

  • PDP Interim NEC Unveils 2026 Primary Timetable, Sets Nomination Fees Ahead of Party Primaries

    The interim National Executive Committee of the Peoples Democratic Party has approved its 2026 pre-election timetable and nomination guidelines ahead of the party’s primaries.

    The decision was announced in a statement issued on Monday by the party’s interim leadership, outlining key dates and fees for aspirants.

    Timetable for primaries released

    According to the statement, the sale of expression of interest and nomination forms will run from May 5 to May 13, 2026.

    Submission of completed forms is scheduled for May 14, followed by screening of aspirants from May 15 to May 18.

    The party fixed May 21 for screening appeals, while the final list of cleared aspirants will be published on May 22.

    Ward primaries are expected to hold on May 27, with appeals on the exercise slated for May 28.

    A National Executive Committee meeting to approve candidates will take place on May 29, while a special convention for ratification is set for May 30.

    Breakdown of nomination fees

    The PDP also released the cost of forms for various elective positions.

    For State House of Assembly, the expression of interest form is pegged at ₦500,000, while the nomination form costs ₦1.5 million.

    House of Representatives aspirants are to pay ₦2 million for expression of interest and ₦5 million for nomination.

    Senate forms are priced at ₦3 million and ₦7 million respectively.

    Governorship aspirants will pay ₦5 million for expression of interest and ₦35 million for nomination, while the presidential forms are pegged at ₦10 million and ₦90 million.

    Concessions for women, youths

    The party announced that women will only pay for expression of interest forms, as nomination forms are free for them.

    Youths and persons living with disabilities are to enjoy a 50 percent discount on nomination forms across all positions.

    The move, according to the party, is aimed at encouraging broader participation in the political process.

    Fresh division emerges within PDP

    Meanwhile, a faction loyal to FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has announced a separate date for the party’s presidential primaries.

    The group fixed May 23, 2026, for its exercise, indicating ongoing divisions within the party structure.

    The parallel moves highlight the deepening leadership crisis within the PDP as preparations intensify for the next election cycle.

  • Court Remands Ex-Skye Bank Chairman Tunde Ayeni Over Alleged N8bn Fraud

    A High Court of the Federal Capital Territory sitting in Apo has remanded former Skye Bank chairman, Tunde Ayeni, in prison custody over an alleged N8 billion fraud case filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.

    The court ordered his remand on Monday after he was arraigned on a 17-count charge bordering on money laundering.

    Court orders remand after arraignment

    Trial judge Jude Onwuegbuzie gave the order after Ayeni pleaded not guilty to all charges brought against him.

    Following the plea, EFCC counsel, Ekele Iheanacho, asked the court to fix a date for trial and requested that the defendant be remanded in custody pending proceedings.

    The court granted the request, ordering Ayeni to be held in prison custody.

    Defence pushes for bail hearing

    Counsel to the defendant, Ahmed Raji (SAN), informed the court that a bail application had already been filed and served on the prosecution.

    He appealed for a short adjournment to allow the court hear the bail application, adding that the defence only received the charge sheet on April 23, 2026, during a public holiday.

    Raji also urged the court to release Ayeni to his legal team, assuring that he would be available for trial.

    Court fixes date for bail application

    Justice Onwuegbuzie adjourned the case to May 13 for the hearing of the bail application.

    The judge, however, declined the request for immediate release, insisting that the defendant remain in custody pending the next hearing.

    EFCC probes wider fraud allegations

    Ayeni’s arraignment follows his arrest by the EFCC in Abuja on April 24 over alleged financial crimes.

    Investigators are probing claims that he was involved in the diversion of funds estimated at N36.5 billion and $30 million, reportedly obtained from Polaris Bank through companies linked to him.

    The case adds to a growing list of high-profile financial crime prosecutions currently before Nigerian courts.

  • Wike Backs George Kelly for 2027 Rivers Governorship, Moves to Reassert Control

    The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has endorsed Alabo Dakorinama George Kelly as his preferred candidate for the 2027 Rivers State governorship election, signaling a new phase in the state’s political battle.

    The decision was reportedly reached after a closed-door meeting in Port Harcourt involving key political and grassroots figures.

    Closed-door meeting shapes decision

    Sources said the endorsement followed intense consultations held on Monday, with influential stakeholders in attendance.

    The meeting reportedly included former militant leaders, pointing to wider efforts to build strong political and grassroots backing ahead of the election cycle.

    The move is seen as part of Wike’s strategy to maintain influence in Rivers politics while serving at the federal level.

    George Kelly positioned for comeback

    George Kelly, a former Commissioner for Works in Rivers State, is believed to be preparing to contest under the All Progressives Congress.

    He previously contested in the Peoples Democratic Party governorship primaries in 2022, where he emerged second behind incumbent Governor Siminalayi Fubara.

    His emergence now signals a possible return to frontline politics with the backing of a powerful political structure.

    Battle lines begin to form

    Political observers say the endorsement could reshape alignments in Rivers State ahead of 2027.

    Wike’s choice of a loyal ally is being interpreted as a move to regain political control in the state amid shifting alliances.

    The development also suggests that early positioning for the 2027 elections is already underway, with major actors consolidating influence.

    Growing tension ahead of 2027

    The Rivers political landscape has remained volatile in recent months, with internal divisions and competing interests shaping the direction of major parties.

    With this endorsement, attention is expected to shift to how other political blocs respond in the coming months.

  • Lizzy Anjorin Dares Iyabo Ojo to Boxing Fight, Says “She Won’t Last Two Minutes”

    Nollywood actress Lizzy Anjorin has publicly challenged her colleague Iyabo Ojo to a boxing match, escalating their ongoing tension with a direct call-out.

    The actress made the demand in a trending video, urging show promoter Paul Okoye to fix a date for the proposed fight.

    “Set the date” — Anjorin throws challenge

    In the video, Anjorin expressed confidence in her ability to face Iyabo Ojo in the ring.

    “Set the date, Paul Okoye. Set the fight date,” she said.

    She went further to boast about her preparedness, insisting her opponent would struggle.

    “I learned boxing. Iyabo Ojo won’t last two minutes in the ring with me,” she added.

    Claims of experience and readiness

    Anjorin said her confidence comes from years of handling intense situations, describing herself as battle-tested.

    She suggested that the proposed fight could serve as a form of resolution to their long-standing issues.

    In a separate post, she called on fans to start placing bets, framing the challenge as a public showdown.

    Social media buzz intensifies

    Her comments have since triggered reactions online, with users divided over the call-out.

    While some supporters backed the idea of a celebrity boxing match, others criticised the escalation of the dispute.

    The development adds to a growing trend of entertainment boxing matches gaining traction in Nigeria.

    Tension spills into public space

    The exchange between both actresses continues to draw attention across entertainment circles, with many watching to see if the challenge will be accepted.

    As of the time of filing this report, Iyabo Ojo has not issued an official response to the challenge.

  • Charly Boy Recounts Funny Moment With Peter Obi Over “Ghana-Must-Go” Bags

    Veteran entertainer Charly Boy has shared a lighthearted story about his encounter with former presidential candidate Peter Obi, recalling how he initially misunderstood the purpose of some large bags Obi brought to his home.

    The story, which has now gone viral, paints a humorous picture of expectations quickly flipped.

    “I thought it was money” — Charly Boy

    Charly Boy said Peter Obi arrived at his residence carrying big Ghana-Must-Go bags, a sight that immediately got him thinking in a different direction.

    “The day wey him come my place carry Ghana-Must-Go bags, I think say ah, Peter Obi wan break him character,” he said.

    He added that his imagination quickly ran wild, believing the bags contained money.

    “I come dey calculate for my head. Cause if Peter give me money I go collect because I know say na clean money,” he added.

    Unexpected content inside the bags

    The entertainer said his excitement dropped when the bags were finally opened.

    According to him, instead of cash, the bags were filled with garden eggs and groundnuts.

    “If you see wetin dey inside the bag, na garden eggs and groundnut,” he said.

    The revelation left him amused, describing the moment as both shocking and funny.

    Reactions trail the story

    The clip has since sparked reactions online, with many Nigerians joking about the misunderstanding while others praised the simplicity attributed to Obi in the story.

    Some users described it as typical of his known lifestyle, while others found it simply entertaining.

    Light moment in political space

    The encounter adds a lighter twist to ongoing conversations around Peter Obi, who remains a central figure in Nigeria’s political space.

    While the story was shared in a humorous tone, it has continued to generate engagement across social media.

    https://twitter.com/i/status/2051206164054958266

  • Seun Kuti Insists Rift with Wizkid Isn’t Over, Says “No Coming Back”

    Afrobeat singer Seun Kuti has reopened talks about his long-running feud with Wizkid, declaring that there has been no reconciliation and no plans to resolve their differences.

    He made the statement during a recent interview, dismissing claims that both artists had settled their issues.

    “No reconciliation” — Seun Kuti

    Responding to a direct question, Seun Kuti shut down the idea of peace between them.

    “No, what are you talking about? Please let’s move on, I don’t want to talk about that,” he said.

    He maintained that the situation remains unchanged despite public speculation.

    Grudge tied to comments about Fela

    The singer explained that his position is rooted in past remarks he believes crossed a line.

    “My grudge for Wizkid is on for life because you don’t say things about my dad and think it’s fine,” he stated.

    According to him, the issue goes beyond personal disagreement and touches on respect for his father, Afrobeat legend Fela Kuti.

    Reactions trail fresh comments

    His remarks have triggered mixed reactions online, with some users backing his stance while others dismissed the feud.

    One user wrote, “Wizkid no really send Kuti family,” while another commented, “May he find healing.”

    Others questioned why the topic keeps resurfacing during interviews.

    Feud resurfaces amid ongoing spotlight

    The renewed comments have brought attention back to the long-standing tension between both artists, which has lingered without resolution.

    While Wizkid has not publicly responded to the latest remarks, the conversation continues to trend across entertainment circles.

     

  • Influencer Sisi Alagbo Breaks Down in Tears, Apologises Over Viral Bedroom Tape

    Popular herbal vendor and influencer, Eniola Sisi Alagbo, has issued a public apology following the circulation of a private bedroom video that sparked widespread reactions online.

    The emotional apology came in a new video shared on May 4, 2026, days after the clip went viral.

    Emotional apology video surfaces

    In the video posted on her Facebook page, Sisi Alagbo appeared visibly shaken as she addressed Nigerians, breaking down in tears while pleading for forgiveness.

    She expressed regret over the incident and admitted that she wished she could undo what had happened.

    “I beg all my mothers and family, please do not be angry… I’m your daughter and I have done wrong. I regret all my mistakes now,” she said.

    Viral clip sparks backlash

    The controversy began after a private video surfaced online, triggering intense debate across social media platforms.

    The footage quickly gained traction, drawing criticism and conversations around privacy, responsibility, and online conduct.

    Calls for forgiveness and understanding

    In her apology, the influencer extended her plea beyond her immediate family, addressing fellow herbal practitioners and Nigerians at large.

    She also sought divine forgiveness, saying she was deeply remorseful over the situation and its impact on her reputation.

    “I beg God to please forgive me… women, men, all Nigerians, I beg you all,” she added.

    Mixed reactions trail apology

    Her apology has since generated mixed reactions online, with some users expressing sympathy while others questioned her actions.

    A user wrote, “She was the one that filmed it,” while another said, “Most people had moved on, she just needs time and a comeback.”

    Others raised concerns unrelated to the incident, reflecting the broad range of reactions the situation has attracted.

    Attention shifts as story unfolds

    The incident continues to trend, although some observers note that public attention may gradually shift as new conversations emerge online.

    For now, Sisi Alagbo’s apology has added a new layer to the unfolding story, as discussions around accountability and privacy persist.