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Author: Promise Odejide

  • US Unveils Trump-Themed Passport for 250th Independence Anniversary

    The United States Department of State has announced plans to release a limited-edition passport featuring the image of President Donald Trump as part of activities marking the country’s 250th independence anniversary. The commemorative document is expected to debut in July.

    Officials say the initiative forms part of broader celebrations tied to the historic milestone.

    Commemorative Passport Design Confirmed

    According to the State Department, the special passport will include customised artwork, with reports indicating that Trump’s portrait will appear on the inside cover. A mock-up shared online also shows his signature embossed in gold.

    Authorities noted that the redesigned passport will retain all existing security features despite the visual changes.

    Limited Release Planned Amid Anniversary Celebrations

    Officials disclosed that the passports will be produced in limited quantities, with reports suggesting around 25,000 units for the commemorative run. However, details on distribution remain unclear.

    It is yet to be confirmed whether the special passports will be issued automatically or made available through a separate request process.

    Part of Wider 250th Anniversary Programme

    The development comes as the United States prepares for a nationwide celebration of its 250th independence anniversary. Planned activities include major public events such as a fireworks display at Mount Rushmore.

    The commemorative passport joins a range of symbolic initiatives typically associated with national milestones.

    Questions Emerge Over Use and Availability

    While commemorative items like coins and park passes are common in the US, a passport remains a globally recognised identification document valid for years. This has raised questions about how the limited-edition version will be used in practice.

    With preparations ongoing, attention is now on further details from authorities regarding rollout and eligibility.

  • Court Bars INEC From ADC Congresses, Nullifies Mark-Led Caretaker Actions

    The Federal High Court in Abuja has barred the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from recognising or participating in any congress organised by committees set up by the Senator David Mark-led caretaker leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC). The ruling also restrains the group from interfering with the functions of elected state executives.

    Justice Joyce Abdulmalik delivered the judgment on Wednesday, settling a dispute over the control of party structures ahead of planned congresses.

    Court Affirms State Executives’ Authority Over Congresses

    The court held that the responsibility for conducting state congresses rests solely with state executive committees, not the national leadership. It ruled that any attempt by the caretaker committee to organise such congresses falls outside its powers.

    Justice Abdulmalik stated that both the 1999 Constitution and the ADC constitution do not empower the caretaker body to appoint congress committees.

    Tenure of State Structures Declared Valid

    In its decision, the court affirmed that the tenure of ADC State Working Committees and State Executive Committees remains valid and subsisting. It said these structures must be allowed to complete their terms pending properly conducted congresses and a national convention.

    The ruling reinforces the position that only duly elected party organs can manage internal electoral processes.

    Suit Filed by Aggrieved Party Members

    The judgment followed a suit filed by several ADC members, including Don Norman Obinna and others, who challenged the legality of the caretaker committee’s actions. The plaintiffs argued that the planned congresses violated the party’s constitution.

    They maintained that only recognised party structures have the authority to organise congresses, urging the court to intervene.

    Court Cites Constitutional Breach, Rejects Jurisdiction Argument

    Justice Abdulmalik agreed with the plaintiffs, noting that the claims raised involved alleged breaches of constitutional and statutory provisions. She dismissed arguments that the court lacked jurisdiction, stressing that such matters warrant judicial review.

    “The law is settled that courts will not interfere. However, where there is an allegation of breach… the court has a duty to intervene,” she ruled.

    Caretaker Committee Actions Nullified

    The court subsequently nullified all processes initiated by the Mark-led caretaker leadership regarding the conduct of state congresses. It emphasised that such actions contravene both constitutional provisions and party guidelines.

    The ruling effectively halts any congress exercise linked to the caretaker committee.

    Ruling Reshapes ADC Internal Power Structure

    The decision is expected to have significant implications for the ADC’s internal leadership dynamics, particularly as political activities begin to intensify. Attention is now on how the party will navigate the ruling and organise its congresses within the framework outlined by the court.

  • Dangote Refinery Raises Petrol Price by ₦75, Signals Fresh Pressure on Pump Rates

    Dangote Refinery has increased the ex-depot price of petrol by ₦75, pushing its loading cost to ₦1,275 per litre. The adjustment, confirmed on Wednesday, is already stirring concerns of a possible rise in pump prices across Nigeria.

    The price hike comes amid operational changes and rising global crude oil costs.

    New Depot Price Takes Effect as Supply System Adjusts

    Data from industry sources shows the refinery raised its petrol loading price from ₦1,200 to ₦1,275 per litre, while coastal supply prices climbed to ₦1,215. A refinery official confirmed the adjustment, describing it as part of ongoing operational realities.

    The increase has quickly filtered through the downstream market, with marketers recalibrating their pricing expectations.

    Supply Disruption Adds to Market Tension

    Sources familiar with operations said the refinery halted its Proforma Invoice entry process around 4:00 pm on Tuesday. The move disrupted normal supply scheduling and temporarily stalled transactions within its loading system.

    The disruption reportedly led to a brief halt in the sale of petrol and Automotive Gas Oil, tightening supply conditions and adding pressure to an already sensitive market.

    Marketers Brace for Ripple Effect Nationwide

    Industry operators say such adjustments typically cascade through the value chain, affecting transportation, distribution, and retail pricing. Many marketers are now anticipating higher depot costs, which could translate into increased pump prices in the coming days.

    The development has heightened uncertainty, particularly as fuel pricing remains a major concern for consumers and businesses.

    Global Oil Price Surge Drives Cost Increase

    The price adjustment comes as international crude oil prices climb sharply. Brent crude was trading around $114.80 per barrel, while West Texas Intermediate rose to about $103.40, reflecting sustained upward momentum.

    Analysts link the surge to geopolitical tensions around the Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil supply route, which has pushed up feedstock costs for refiners.

    Rising Costs Set Stage for Possible Fuel Price Hike

    With higher crude prices feeding into refinery costs and supply disruptions tightening the market, attention is now on how quickly the increase will reflect at filling stations. The latest adjustment underscores the sensitivity of Nigeria’s fuel market to global shifts and operational changes.

  • “No Explanation” — Delta Police Spokesman Reacts to Viral Killing, Mentions ‘Spirituality’

    The Delta State Police Command has reacted to the viral video showing a suspect being shot by a police officer in Effurun, with spokesperson Bright Edafe saying the incident remains difficult to explain. He added that “spirituality may not be far from it,” as investigations continue.

    Edafe spoke during a live interview on Channels Television on Wednesday, addressing the growing outrage surrounding the incident.

    Viral Video Shows Handcuffed Suspect Shot

    Footage circulating online shows a man with his hands cuffed behind his back pleading before being shot by an officer. A police bus at the scene was marked “Effurun Area Command,” linking the incident to operatives in Delta State.

    The killing, widely described as extrajudicial, reportedly occurred on April 26 during an operation based on intelligence from members of the public.

    Police Say Officer Violated Operational Rules

    In an earlier statement, the command said the victim, identified as 28-year-old Mene Ogidi, was arrested while attempting to waybill a parcel suspected to contain a Beretta pistol with four rounds of ammunition.

    According to the police, the officer leading the team, ASP Nuhu Usman, acted outside established procedures. The command said he violated Force Order 237 and the Nigeria Police Force’s standard operating guidelines by discharging his firearm.

    Edafe Admits Difficulty Explaining Officer’s Action

    Reacting to the development, Edafe said the command is still trying to understand what led to the shooting. He described the situation as one of the most challenging moments in his role.

    “Having an incident that cannot be explained is very difficult. There is no explanation for this,” he said. He added that while the police cannot formally attribute the act to spirituality, “that may not be far from it.”

    Officer Arrested, Disciplinary Process Underway

    The police confirmed that the officer involved has been arrested and transferred to Abuja to face disciplinary proceedings. Authorities say further investigation is ongoing to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident.

    The case has drawn widespread attention across social media and news platforms, intensifying calls for accountability.

    Incident Revives Concerns Over Police Conduct

    The killing has renewed public concern over the use of force by security operatives, coming nearly six years after the #EndSARS protests against police brutality. The latest development is expected to keep pressure on authorities as demands for transparency and justice continue to grow.

  • EU Slams Meta Over Child Safety Failures, Charges Firm for Allowing Under-13 Access

    Meta Platforms has been formally charged by European Union regulators for allegedly failing to prevent children under 13 from accessing Facebook and Instagram. The move follows a two-year investigation into the company’s compliance with the Digital Services Act (DSA).

    The European Commission said the charges relate to concerns that Meta has not adequately enforced its own age restrictions across its platforms.

    EU Findings Point to Weak Enforcement of Age Rules

    According to regulators, Meta’s systems for identifying and removing underage users remain ineffective despite clear policies banning children under 13. The Commission said enforcement gaps have allowed millions of minors to access the platforms.

    Estimates from the EU suggest that between 10 and 12 per cent of children under 13 in Europe are currently using Facebook and Instagram.

    Regulators Raise Concerns Over Child Safety Risks

    The Commission warned that the failure to restrict access exposes minors to harmful content and online risks. Officials said stronger safeguards are required under the Digital Services Act.

    EU tech chief Henna Virkkunen criticised the company’s approach, stating that existing rules must go beyond written policies and translate into real protection for users.

    Meta Asked to Strengthen Systems and Compliance Measures

    Regulators have directed Meta to overhaul its risk assessment processes and improve its ability to detect and remove underage users. The company is also expected to implement stricter enforcement mechanisms in line with DSA requirements.

    The charges mark one of the most significant enforcement actions under the EU’s new digital regulations targeting Big Tech firms.

  • Ibiyeomie Links 50 Cent’s Failed Port Harcourt Show to Crusade, Sparks Online Debate

    Founder of Salvation Ministries, David Ibiyeomie, has recounted an incident involving American rapper 50 Cent and a planned concert in Port Harcourt, saying the event’s collapse coincided with a church crusade scheduled for the same day. The account, shared in a viral video, has drawn mixed reactions online.

    The cleric narrated the experience while addressing his congregation, with clips from the sermon now circulating widely on social media.

    Cleric Recalls Clash Between Concert and Crusade

    According to Ibiyeomie, the rapper was billed to perform in Port Harcourt at the peak of his career on the same day his church had planned a crusade. He said the situation raised concerns about attendance among members.

    He stated that he warned that if the concert held and believers attended, he would not proceed with the programme.

    “If He Comes, Then God Did Not Call Me”

    The pastor said he made a strong declaration at the time, linking the outcome of the concert to his calling. He suggested that the event would serve as a test of his ministry.

    “I said if 50 Cent comes to perform, then God did not call me,” he said.

    Concert Fails to Hold as Planned

    Ibiyeomie claimed that the rapper encountered issues before reaching Port Harcourt and was unable to proceed with the performance. According to him, 50 Cent reportedly turned back after arriving in Lagos.

    He added that individuals who had purchased tickets for the concert eventually attended the church programme instead.

    Mixed Reactions Trail Viral Video

    The story has sparked varied reactions online, with users debating whether the development was coincidental or reflective of faith-based beliefs. Some expressed agreement with the pastor’s interpretation, while others questioned the narrative.

    Clips of the sermon continue to circulate across platforms, fueling ongoing discussions.

  • Gunmen Attack Ekiti Church, Kill Pastor, Abduct Worshippers During Crusade

    Gunmen have attacked a church in Ekiti State, killing a pastor and abducting several worshippers during an open-air crusade in Eda Oniyo Ekiti, Ilejemeje Local Government Area. The incident, which occurred Tuesday evening, has thrown the community into panic.

    Residents said the attackers stormed the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) venue on the outskirts of the town and opened fire before taking some worshippers into a nearby forest.

    Pastor Killed as Worshippers Taken Into Forest

    Sources within the community said the assailants arrived in large numbers and were heavily armed. During the attack, the pastor was shot dead while several others were forcefully taken away.

    A resident, who spoke anonymously, said efforts were ongoing to determine the number of abducted victims. “They were many. They killed the pastor and took some worshippers. We are still trying to know how many are missing,” the source said.

    Security Operatives Launch Rescue Efforts

    A government official familiar with the development confirmed the incident, noting that security agencies had been deployed to the area. He said operatives were already on the trail of the attackers and expressed confidence that the victims would be rescued.

    “Yes, some worshippers were kidnapped… security agencies are involved and on the trail of the attackers,” the source said.

    Police Confirm Attack, Begin Manhunt

    The Ekiti State Police Command confirmed the attack on Wednesday and announced the commencement of a coordinated rescue operation. The Police Public Relations Officer, Sunday Abutu, said the Commissioner of Police, Michael Falade, had ordered a full investigation.

    According to him, the police, in collaboration with the Nigerian Army, Amotekun Corps, Agro Marshals, vigilantes and local hunters, have begun aggressive bush combing operations to locate the victims and apprehend the perpetrators.

    Authorities Urge Calm, Heighten Security Advisory

    The police urged residents to remain calm while assuring that all necessary steps were being taken to address the situation. Abutu also called on members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements to security agencies.

    He advised religious leaders to notify the police before organising late-night programmes to enable proper security arrangements.

    Recurring Pattern Raises Fresh Concerns

    The attack adds to a growing pattern of assaults on religious gatherings in parts of the country. A similar incident occurred in November 2025 in Kwara State, where gunmen attacked a church, killed worshippers and abducted dozens.

    The latest development is expected to heighten concerns around security in rural communities, particularly during large gatherings, as authorities intensify efforts to rescue the victims and restore calm.

  • Cubana Chief Priest Declares House of Reps Bid, Targets Imo Seat Ahead of 2027

    Popular socialite and nightlife entrepreneur, Pascal Okechukwu, widely known as Cubana Chief Priest, has announced plans to contest for a seat in the House of Representatives in the 2027 general elections. He said he intends to represent the Orsu, Orlu and Oru East Federal Constituency in Imo State under the All Progressives Congress (APC).

    The declaration was made in a video shared online, where he outlined his motivation for entering politics.

    Chief Priest Declares Interest, Frames Ambition Around Service

    In the video, the celebrity barman said his decision to run is driven by a desire to contribute to the development of his constituency. He insisted that his ambition is not financially motivated but focused on adding value.

    “I am not coming to steal money, I want to add mine to the constituency,” he said.

    Move Follows Alignment With Tinubu Support Structure

    His political ambition comes weeks after he formally aligned with the City Boy Movement, a support group backing President Bola Tinubu. The development has intensified conversations about his growing involvement in political activities.

    Earlier in February, he was appointed Imo State Director of the movement, a role that positions him within the structure mobilising support for the president’s re-election bid.

    City Boy Movement Highlights Role in Tinubu Agenda

    The group, in a statement announcing his appointment, described Cubana Chief Priest as a figure capable of strengthening grassroots mobilisation. It said his influence and reach would help advance the Renewed Hope agenda.

    According to the statement, his role includes supporting party structures and driving engagement across the state.

    Early Signals as 2027 Political Activity Builds

    His declaration adds to the growing list of early political moves ahead of the 2027 elections, particularly among public figures expanding into politics. Observers note that such announcements reflect increasing activity within party structures as alignments begin to form.

    With his entry into the race, attention is expected to shift to how established political actors in the constituency respond in the coming months.

  • Kano LG Chairman Distributes Detergents to Women, Sparks Mixed Reactions in Kiru

    The Chairman of Kiru Local Government Area in Kano State, Abdullahi Saidu, has distributed detergents to 500 women as part of an empowerment initiative, triggering mixed reactions across the community. The items were shared with beneficiaries from Yalwa ward.

    The intervention comes at a time of increasing grassroots political activities ahead of future elections.

    Detergent Distribution Targets Household Support

    According to reports, the items distributed included brands such as Omo, Klin and Viva. The chairman said the initiative was designed to support women and reduce some of their domestic burdens.

    He described the effort as part of ongoing attempts to reach vulnerable groups within the local government area.

    Similar Outreach Seen Across Constituency

    The development follows a related intervention by the member representing Kiru/Bebeji Federal Constituency, Abdulmumin Jibrin Kofa. He recently distributed diapers to pregnant women in parts of the constituency.

    Observers say such programmes are becoming more common as political engagement at the community level begins to intensify.

    Residents React, Question Impact of Initiative

    The detergent distribution has, however, drawn criticism from some residents who questioned its impact. Several voices described the gesture as inadequate, calling for more meaningful and sustainable support.

    Muhammad Aliyu Junaid criticised the move, suggesting the items did not address pressing needs. Others echoed similar concerns about the value of the intervention.

    Calls Grow for Sustainable Empowerment

    Some stakeholders argued that empowerment efforts should focus on long-term economic benefits rather than short-term relief. They said initiatives that support income generation would have a more lasting impact on households.

    Residents also raised concerns about the optics of such programmes, particularly when widely publicised.

  • “Kissing Scenes Are Awkward” — BBNaija Star Saga Opens Up on Film Experience

    Former Big Brother Naija star Saga Adeolu has shared his experience with kissing scenes in films, describing them as awkward and far from the romantic moments viewers often imagine. His comments have sparked fresh conversations about what happens behind the scenes in the movie industry.

    Saga made the remarks during a recent interview, where he spoke candidly about the challenges actors face while filming intimate scenes.

    Saga Says Onscreen Kisses Are “Weird” and Uncomfortable

    According to him, many people assume actors enjoy kissing scenes, but the reality is different. He explained that such moments can be uncomfortable, especially with the presence of cameras and crew members.

    “Kissing in films isn’t easy; kissing another actor is weird,” he said. He added that the experience often feels forced and is done strictly to serve the storyline.

    “We Don’t Enjoy It” — Actor Explains Reality

    Saga stressed that actors are simply doing their job during such scenes, not enjoying the moment as viewers might think. He described the experience as intrusive and physically uncomfortable.

    “Having people invade your mouth with saliva… it’s not something we enjoy. People think we enjoy it, but we don’t,” he said, urging audiences to better appreciate the effort actors put into their roles.

    Multiple Takes Make Scenes More Challenging

    He also revealed that kissing scenes are sometimes repeated multiple times during filming, which can make the experience even more exhausting. According to him, actors may have to perform several takes within a short period.

    In one instance, Saga said he had to kiss four different actresses in a single day, a revelation that drew attention online.

    Mixed Reactions Trail Viral Comments

    His comments have since generated mixed reactions on social media, with some users expressing surprise while others responded with humour. Some viewers said the revelation gave them a new perspective on the realities of acting.

    Others, however, questioned his stance, noting that such scenes are often seen as part of the glamour associated with the film industry.