Author: Promise Odejide

  • Air Peace Breaks Silence on Gatwick Chaos, Blames Bird Strike for Flight Cancellation

    Air Peace has responded to backlash over its disrupted London to Lagos flight, stating that a bird strike forced the cancellation and grounding of the aircraft for safety checks.

    Airline reacts to viral claims

    The airline issued a statement addressing a viral video that alleged passengers were stranded without communication or care.

    Air Peace said the claims did not fully reflect the situation, stressing that safety considerations guided its actions.

    Bird strike forced cancellation

    According to the airline, the aircraft experienced a bird strike on May 1, requiring immediate suspension of the flight.

    It described the incident as a “force majeure” event that demanded comprehensive safety inspections before any operation could continue.

    “Safety is not negotiable… we would not operate an aircraft without the required clearance,” the airline said.

    Passengers informed, accommodation arranged

    Air Peace stated that passengers were informed of the disruption and that hotel accommodation was arranged at Hilton London Gatwick.

    It added that transit support was also provided while alternative flight plans were being organised.

    Delays linked to airport operations

    The airline explained that delays in moving some passengers were caused by airport congestion and slow baggage handling by ground service providers.

    It noted that baggage processes at international airports are handled by independent companies, not the airline directly.

    Denies abandoning travellers

    Air Peace insisted that passengers were not abandoned at any point, maintaining that communication was ongoing throughout the disruption.

    It said many affected passengers had already been accommodated while arrangements for new flights were in progress.

    The airline acknowledged the inconvenience caused but reaffirmed its commitment to safety and improved service delivery during disruptions.

  • Carter Efe Defeats Portable to Claim Celebrity Boxing Title in Lagos

    Social media comedian Carter Efe has defeated street artiste Portable by unanimous decision to win the celebrity boxing title at the Chaos in the Ring 4 event in Lagos.

    Efe dominates all three rounds

    The bout, held at Balmoral Hall, Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island, saw Efe control the fight from start to finish.

    All three judges scored the contest 27-30 in his favour, handing Portable his first defeat in celebrity boxing.

    Portable loses unbeaten record

    Portable came into the fight unbeaten, having previously defeated Charles Okocha and Speed Darlington to win two belts.

    He had earlier expressed confidence in securing a third title before the bout.

    “I will use you to collect my third belt,” he had said ahead of the fight.

    Pre-fight talk turns reality

    Efe, however, dismissed Portable’s confidence and predicted a dominant performance.

    “One punch and you fall,” he said before the match.

    His performance in the ring backed up that confidence.

    Fight breakdown shows clear control

    Portable started aggressively in the opening round, throwing wide punches, but Efe absorbed the pressure and responded with calculated counterattacks.

    In the second round, Efe settled into rhythm, landing cleaner combinations while Portable struggled to connect.

    The final round followed a similar pattern, with Efe maintaining control until the end.

    The victory ends Portable’s reign and confirms Carter Efe as the new celebrity boxing champion.

  • Tinubu Heads to France, Kenya, Rwanda for Key Economic Summits

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will depart Abuja on Saturday for a three-nation visit to France, Kenya and Rwanda to attend high-level economic and diplomatic engagements.

    Trip begins with France stop

    The development was disclosed in a statement by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.

    According to the statement, Tinubu will first visit France before proceeding to Nairobi, Kenya, for the Africa-France Summit.

    Focus on Africa-France partnerships

    The summit, scheduled for May 11 to May 12, will be co-chaired by French President Emmanuel Macron and Kenyan President William Ruto.

    It is expected to focus on energy transition, green industrialisation, digital transformation, global financing reforms, and climate action.

    The event will also provide a platform for discussions on economic growth, infrastructure, youth development, and regional cooperation.

    Next stop: Africa CEO Forum in Rwanda

    Following the Kenya engagement, Tinubu will travel to Kigali, Rwanda, for the Africa CEO Forum scheduled for May 14 to May 15.

    The forum will bring together over 2,000 business leaders, investors, and policymakers to discuss strategies for economic transformation and cross-border investment.

    Held in partnership with the International Finance Corporation (IFC), the event will centre on scaling African businesses and strengthening regional integration.

    Tinubu to engage global leaders

    During the trip, the president is expected to deliver key statements on Nigeria’s economic reforms and investment prospects.

    He will also hold meetings with global and African business leaders to strengthen partnerships.

    Tinubu will be accompanied by senior government officials and is expected to return to Nigeria after the Rwanda summit.

  • Funke Akindele Calls Out Air Peace Over London Flight Delay, Stranded Passengers

    Nollywood actress Funke Akindele has criticised Air Peace over what she described as poor handling of a prolonged flight delay that left passengers stranded at London’s Gatwick Airport.

    Passengers left waiting for hours

    Akindele raised the alarm on Friday, saying travellers had been at the airport since early morning without clear communication from the airline.

    “Passengers (including elderly people) have been stranded since 6:30am… with no proper communication,” she wrote.

    She said the delay was initially attributed to a bird strike, with promises of hotel accommodation that were yet to be fulfilled.

    Frustration over lack of support

    According to the actress, passengers remained at the baggage claim area for hours without access to their luggage, food, or rest.

    She added that elderly passengers were struggling, while families were exhausted from the long wait.

    “People are still sitting at baggage claim hungry, exhausted, and without their bags,” she said.

    Situation persists despite complaints

    In a follow-up post shared with a video, Akindele said the situation had not improved several hours later.

    “Since 7am… it’s almost 4pm — no bags, no hotel, no proper updates. Passengers are stranded,” she stated.

    She called on the airline to release passengers’ luggage and provide immediate assistance.

    Air Peace responds to backlash

    Air Peace, in its response, expressed regret over the situation and said the disruption was caused by factors beyond its control.

    The airline noted that safety remains a priority and assured that efforts were ongoing to assist affected passengers.

    It urged travellers to remain patient while arrangements were being made.

    As of the time of filing this report, there was no confirmation that luggage had been released or that hotel accommodation had been provided.

  • Malema Blasts Xenophobic Attacks, Questions Job Claims as Nigerians Targeted in South Africa

    Julius Malema, leader of South Africa’s Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), has condemned rising xenophobic attacks against foreign nationals, including Nigerians, questioning the justification behind the violence.

    Malema challenges narrative on job losses

    Speaking amid growing tension, Malema criticised claims that immigrants are responsible for unemployment in South Africa.

    “You say Zimbabweans take your job, Nigerians take your jobs… after doing all this, how many jobs have you created,” he asked.

    He argued that attacks on foreign nationals have failed to produce any economic benefit.

    Destruction of businesses under fire

    Malema also condemned the destruction of immigrant-owned businesses, noting that such actions only worsen unemployment.

    “You close a shop that hires five people… after closing that shop, how many jobs have you created,” he said.

    He described those behind the attacks as lacking the capacity to address economic challenges constructively.

    Rejects politics built on division

    The EFF leader distanced himself from rhetoric that promotes hostility toward other Africans, insisting he would not seek support based on hate.

    “I don’t want votes that say to me, I must hate Africans for you to vote for me,” he stated.

    Nigerian government raises alarm

    The comments come as Nigerians in South Africa report renewed harassment, intimidation, and violence, with businesses looted and communities destabilised.

    The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) condemned the situation, describing it as worsening despite diplomatic efforts.

    “While many expected a de-escalation… the situation on the ground is deteriorating,” NIDCOM chairman Abike Dabiri-Erewa said.

    Deaths and fear grip affected communities

    NIDCOM disclosed that children of Nigerian descent are increasingly afraid to attend school, while many business owners have shut down over safety concerns.

    The Nigerian Consulate in Johannesburg also confirmed the deaths of two Nigerians, Amaramiro Emmanuel and Ekpenyong Andrew, amid the unrest.

    The commission called for urgent intervention, including increased security in affected communities and an end to profiling of Nigerians.

     

  • Sowore Slams Nigeria’s Pay Structure, Says Leaders Earn More Than Workers

    Human rights activist and politician Omoyele Sowore has criticised Nigeria’s income structure, saying those in power earn far more than ordinary workers despite contributing less.

    Sowore raises concern over income inequality

    Speaking on inequality under the current administration, Sowore said the country’s compensation system is skewed against workers.

    “In this country, the people that are working are the least paid, and the people who don’t work are the well paid,” he said.

    Claims on lawmakers’ earnings spark debate

    Sowore alleged that an average Nigerian senator earns over ₦30 million monthly, despite limited legislative sittings.

    He argued that such earnings are disproportionate when compared to the financial struggles faced by everyday Nigerians.

    Workers struggle despite daily efforts

    According to him, many workers are unable to afford basic needs such as food, healthcare, and education, despite working consistently.

    He said the situation reflects a system that prioritises political office holders over the labour force.

    Call for shift in leadership priorities

    Sowore called for urgent reforms, insisting that leadership must prioritise the welfare of workers.

    “The greatest work on our hands now is to drive away the enemies of workers who are occupying positions of power in this country,” he added.

    He maintained that addressing inequality in governance and public sector pay is critical to improving living conditions.

  • Sanwo-Olu Approves ₦50,000 Relief for Lagos Workers Amid Economic Pressure

    Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has approved a ₦50,000 relief package for workers in the state, to be paid alongside their May salaries as part of measures to ease economic pressure.

    Relief announced at Workers’ Day event

    The governor made the announcement on Friday during the 2026 Workers’ Day celebration held at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena in Lagos.

    Represented by his deputy, Obafemi Hamzat, Sanwo-Olu said the payment would cut across all categories of workers and may be reviewed in the coming months.

    “For this May, there will be an additional ₦50,000 for every worker in Lagos State, across board, irrespective of grade,” he said.

    Move aimed at easing economic hardship

    Sanwo-Olu acknowledged the impact of rising inflation and global economic challenges, noting that the government must continue to provide practical support for workers.

    He said the initiative reflects the state’s commitment to supporting its workforce, including teachers, healthcare workers, artisans, and civil servants.

    “Lagos is great because of you—the teacher who stays after hours, the nurse who takes a third shift, the artisan who passes on their trade,” he added.

    Government pledges continued engagement with labour

    The governor reaffirmed his administration’s willingness to maintain dialogue with organised labour, stressing that cooperation is key to sustaining industrial harmony.

    He noted that the state government remains committed to improving workers’ welfare and strengthening public service delivery.

    Security and infrastructure remain priorities

    Sanwo-Olu also highlighted ongoing investments in security infrastructure, including community policing and surveillance systems, describing safety as critical to productivity.

    He added that his administration would focus on completing key projects in transport, housing, and pensions before the end of its tenure.

  • Banky W Faces Backlash After Revealing How Adesua Initially Rejected Him

    Nigerian singer and actor Banky W has come under criticism after opening up about his past relationship journey with his wife, Adesua Etomi, during a recent interview.

    Revelation from interview sparks reactions

    Speaking on The Teju Babyface Show, Banky W revealed that he initially stopped pursuing Adesua after several unsuccessful attempts to win her over.

    He said that although he believed she was the one for him, she did not feel the same way at the time, leading him to step back and focus on building a friendship instead.

    Faith and friendship shaped relationship

    According to the singer, he turned to his faith during that period and decided not to revisit the idea of a relationship unless Adesua came to the same conclusion on her own.

    He recalled that the turning point came during a phone conversation when she told him, “Banky, you know you’re my husband, right?”

    Mixed reactions trail personal disclosure

    The revelation has since triggered mixed reactions online, with many Nigerians questioning why such personal details were made public.

    Some social media users criticised the disclosure, arguing that aspects of their courtship should have remained private, while others saw it as a reflection of patience and faith.

    Comments on marriage dynamic add to debate

    In another part of the interview, Banky W mentioned that his wife is not particularly interested in cooking, a comment that further stirred reactions among listeners.

    The discussion has continued to generate debate around relationship privacy and the boundaries of public storytelling.

  • “Pray for My Wife” — Akeem Adesola Speaks Again as Sisi Alagbo Video Fallout Intensifies

    Akeem Adesola has issued another public reaction following the controversy surrounding a leaked private video involving his wife, Eniola Sisi Alagbo.

    Husband shares emotional message online

    In a brief post shared on social media, Adesola expressed concern over the situation, writing, “Oh Allah, save my wife.”

    He also appealed directly to followers, urging them to pray for her amid the ongoing backlash.

    Fresh reactions trail video controversy

    The incident has continued to generate attention online, with reactions pouring in across social platforms.

    The controversy intensified after content creator Aunty Arike weighed in on the situation following her viewing of the clip.

    Influencer raises questions over video

    According to her, the footage appeared to involve three individuals, a development that sparked further debate.

    She questioned the circumstances surrounding the recording of the video, noting that one of the individuals involved allegedly filmed the clip.

    Public attention remains on unfolding situation

    The development comes amid ongoing discussions about the viral video and its implications, as reactions continue to shape conversations around the issue.

  • Okpebholo Says Obi Can’t Win Edo in 2027, Links 2023 Victory to Past Govt

    Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has said Labour Party’s Peter Obi will not win the state in the 2027 presidential election, attributing his 2023 victory to the performance of the previous administration.

    Governor questions basis of Obi’s past win

    Speaking on Politics Today on Channels Television on Thursday, Okpebholo claimed Obi’s success in Edo during the last election was influenced by dissatisfaction with the then state government.

    “Peter Obi defeated Tinubu last time because the governor was not working,” he said.

    Confidence in APC support ahead of 2027

    The governor also expressed confidence in the All Progressives Congress (APC), insisting that growing support across the state would translate into electoral victory.

    He reaffirmed his earlier position that he would deliver 2.5 million votes to President Bola Tinubu in the next general election.

    ‘Support will reflect at the polls’

    Okpebholo dismissed doubts about his projection, stating that public enthusiasm already reflects the party’s strength on the ground.

    “We were on the street. Nobody told them we were coming. People were leaving their houses. And that is the vote,” he added.

    APC eyes stronger performance in Edo

    The governor maintained that with improved governance and mobilisation, the APC is positioned to secure a more decisive outcome in Edo State in 2027.