Author: Promise Odejide

  • Court Strikes Out Contempt Suit Against INEC Chairman Over Service Failure

    The Federal High Court in Abuja has struck out a contempt suit filed against the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) after the applicant failed to personally serve the required court documents.

    Why the court struck out the case

    Justice Joyce Abdulmalik dismissed the suit on the basis that the defendant was not personally served, as mandated by law in contempt proceedings.

    She held that since contempt is quasi-criminal in nature, Form 48 must be served directly on the alleged contemnor.

    The judge added that failure to comply leaves the court with no option but to strike out the case.

    Background to the legal dispute

    The case stemmed from an earlier judgment delivered on March 5, 2025, where the court ordered INEC to recognise the Edozie Njoku-led faction as the leadership of the National Rescue Movement (NRM).

    Following INEC’s refusal to comply, the faction initiated contempt proceedings against the then INEC chairman by filing Forms 48 and 49.

    However, INEC challenged the court’s jurisdiction, arguing that the contempt did not occur in the face of the court.

    Case reassigned before final ruling

    The initial trial judge later recused himself and returned the case file to the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, who reassigned it to Justice Abdulmalik.

    At the resumed hearing, the court insisted on proper personal service and adjourned for compliance.

    But when the applicant failed to meet the requirement, the case was struck out.

    Reactions from NRM faction

    Reacting, factional NRM chairman Chinedu Obi welcomed the ruling, questioning the legitimacy of the Njoku-led leadership.

    He maintained that the party’s recognised structure remains the one reflected on INEC’s official platform.

    Obi added that the development clears the path for the party’s participation in the 2027 general elections.

     

  • NiDCOM Issues Fresh Warning as Anti-Foreigner Protests Escalate in South Africa

    The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission has warned Nigerians living in South Africa to exercise caution following a surge in violent anti-foreigner protests across several cities, raising fresh concerns over safety.

    Violence spreads across major cities

    The advisory follows a communication from the Nigerian Consulate General in Johannesburg, which reported that protests in East London, Cape Town, Durban, and parts of KwaZulu-Natal have turned violent.

    According to the April 22 circular, the unrest has led to looting, destruction of property, and injuries, with fears that the situation could worsen.

    The consulate also warned that more protests are expected in Gauteng Province between April 27 and 29.

    NiDCOM urges caution, avoidance of protest areas

    In response, NiDCOM advised Nigerians to avoid protest zones, steer clear of confrontations, and stay updated through credible local media.

    The commission stressed the need for Nigerians to remain law-abiding while the situation unfolds.

    Business owners told to shut down temporarily

    Nigerian business owners were specifically urged to close shops on Freedom Day, April 27, and possibly extend the shutdown until April 29.

    The warning follows concerns that foreign-owned businesses are often targeted during such protests.

    Diplomatic efforts underway

    NiDCOM reaffirmed support for Nigeria’s Consul-General in Johannesburg, Ninikanwa Okey-Uche, noting that the consulate remains operational and is working with South African authorities to ensure the safety of Nigerians.

    Meanwhile, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, is reportedly engaging her South African counterpart in diplomatic talks aimed at resolving the situation.

    The commission reiterated its commitment to Nigerians in the diaspora, urging continued vigilance as developments unfold.

  • Sarah Martins Cautions Ashmusy Over Egg Freezing Advice

    Nollywood actress Sarah Martins has responded to comments by skitmaker Ashmusy on egg freezing, warning that the option does not shield women from infections or other health risks.

    Ashmusy’s stance sparks conversation

    Ashmusy had earlier said she chose to freeze her eggs to avoid rushing into marriage due to age pressure, describing it as a way to secure her chances of motherhood in the future.

    Her position triggered discussions online, with many weighing in on fertility choices and timing.

    Sarah Martins issues health warning

    Reacting, Sarah Martins acknowledged the importance of educating women on egg freezing but stressed that it should not be misunderstood as protection against sexually transmitted infections.

    “Dear Ashmusy, thank you for educating women on egg freezing,” she said.

    “But please remind them that freezing their eggs… doesn’t prevent them from getting infected with HIV/AIDS and other diseases.”

    She urged women to remain cautious and prioritise safe practices, noting that fertility planning does not replace health protection.

    Call for broader awareness

    The actress emphasised the need for more balanced conversations around reproductive health, encouraging women to combine family planning decisions with proper awareness of health risks.

    “Protect yourself always,” she added, while also commending Ashmusy for raising awareness on the topic.

  • Yahaya Bello Secures N1bn Court Victory Over Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan

    A Kogi State High Court has awarded N1 billion in damages to former governor Yahaya Bello in a defamation case against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan over remarks made during a television interview.

    Court rules interview defamatory

    Delivering judgment in the suit marked HCL/16/2023, Justice A. S. Ibrahim held that statements made by the senator during a November 4, 2022 appearance on Arise TV’s “The Morning Show” were defamatory.

    The court ruled that describing Bello as a “murderer,” “killer,” and “perpetrator of evil acts” was unjustified and damaging to his reputation.

    N1bn damages, injunction granted

    Based on the balance of probabilities, the court entered judgment in favour of Bello and awarded ₦1 billion as damages.

    It also issued a perpetual injunction restraining Akpoti-Uduaghan, her agents, or associates from making further defamatory statements against the former governor across media platforms.

    Legal battle and appeal history

    The suit followed Bello’s claim that the senator’s comments tarnished his image.

    Akpoti-Uduaghan’s legal team had challenged the court’s jurisdiction, arguing that the case was an abuse of court process.

    However, Bello’s counsel countered the claim, insisting the matter was properly filed. The Court of Appeal later dismissed the senator’s challenge and affirmed the High Court’s authority to hear the case.

  • PSC Fixes April 28 for Police Recruitment Exams, Issues Fresh Instructions to Applicants

    The Police Service Commission has fixed April 28 to 30, 2026, for the written examination of applicants seeking enlistment into the Nigeria Police Force as constables.

    Exam to hold nationwide

    The commission disclosed this in a statement on Thursday through its Head of Protocol and Public Affairs, Torty Njoku Kalu.

    According to the statement, the examination will be conducted in collaboration with the Nigeria Police Force across selected centres in the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.

    Only candidates who successfully completed the physical and credentials screening will be eligible to sit for the test.

    Portal opens for exam slips

    Qualified applicants have been directed to log on to the official recruitment portal from Friday, April 24, 2026, to print their examination invitation cards.

    The slip will contain details of the candidate’s exam date, time, and venue.

    “The Police Service Commission (PSC), in partnership with the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), has scheduled a written test for applicants seeking enlistment as Police Constables from April 28 to 30, 2026,” the statement read.

    Items and dress code announced

    The commission also outlined requirements for the examination, stating that candidates must come along with specific items.

    These include a pen, National Identification Number slip with a clear photograph, and a printed copy of the examination invitation card.

    Applicants are also expected to appear in white shorts, white T-shirt, and white canvas.

    Warning against racketeering

    The PSC reiterated that the recruitment exercise is free and warned applicants against falling victim to fraud.

    It stressed that any form of job racketeering or financial inducement would be treated as a criminal offence.

    Candidates were advised to rely only on official communication channels for updates regarding the exercise.

     

  • Netanyahu Reveals Cancer Diagnosis After Quiet Treatment, Explains Delay

    Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has revealed he was diagnosed with prostate cancer and quietly underwent treatment, explaining that the disclosure was delayed due to ongoing tensions.

    Diagnosis uncovered during routine check

    The 76-year-old leader made this known on Friday while releasing details of his annual medical examination.

    He said the condition was discovered during routine monitoring following a previous procedure for an enlarged prostate about a year and a half ago.

    Doctors reportedly found a small abnormality measuring less than one centimetre, which was later confirmed to be an early-stage malignant tumour with no signs of spread.

    Why he kept it private

    Netanyahu explained that he chose to delay making the information public to avoid it being used for political narratives.

    “Today, my annual medical report was published. I requested to delay its release so it would not come out at the height of the war or be used to spread false narratives,” he said.

    Treatment and recovery

    He noted that medical experts presented multiple options, including observation, but he opted for immediate treatment.

    “When I am faced with a potential risk, I prefer to deal with it immediately. I chose treatment, and the problem has been removed completely,” he stated.

    The prime minister also reassured citizens about his health status.

    “I am healthy and in excellent physical condition. It is now behind me,” he added.

    Focus on early detection

    Netanyahu’s disclosure has highlighted the importance of early detection and routine screening for prostate conditions, particularly among older men.

    He had previously undergone surgery for a hernia in March 2024 at a hospital in Jerusalem and recovered without complications.

     

  • Ex-Super Eagles Striker Eneramo Dies After Collapse During Match

    Former Super Eagles striker Michael Eneramo has died after suffering a suspected cardiac arrest during a friendly match in Kaduna, the Nigeria Football Federation confirmed on Friday. He was 40.

    Collapse during match

    Eneramo reportedly slumped on the pitch five minutes into the second half, prompting immediate medical attention from officials at the venue.

    Despite efforts to revive him, he was later confirmed dead, sending shockwaves through Nigeria’s football community.

    NFF reacts to tragic loss

    Reacting to the development, NFF General Secretary, Dr Mohammed Sanusi, described the incident as devastating.

    He extended condolences to the family of the late striker and the wider football community affected by the loss.

    Career and national impact

    Eneramo earned 10 caps for Nigeria and was part of the squad during the qualification campaign for the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

    He is particularly remembered for scoring in a crucial 2-2 draw against Tunisia during the qualifiers.

    At club level, he built a reputation as a powerful forward, enjoying a successful spell with Tunisian giants Esperance, where he was nicknamed “The Tank” by fans.

    He also featured in leagues across Algeria, Saudi Arabia and Turkey during a career that spanned several years.

    His death marks a painful moment for Nigerian football, as tributes begin to pour in from fans and former teammates in latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today.

     

  • Geh Geh Reacts to Roby Ekpo Marriage Drama, Tells Men ‘Know When to Walk Away’

    Social commentator Geh Geh has weighed in on the ongoing marriage crisis involving Roby Ekpo and his estranged wife, Mayowa, offering blunt advice that has stirred reactions online.

    Marriage crisis sparks debate

    The situation gained attention after Roby Ekpo opened up about the alleged collapse of his marriage after 11 years, triggering mixed reactions across social media.

    The development has continued to dominate conversations, with different voices sharing opinions on relationships and emotional expression.

    Geh Geh delivers blunt message

    Reacting to the saga, Geh Geh criticised men who become overly emotional in relationships, insisting that walking away remains their only real control.

    “Bro, you’re crying because of a woman? You’re crying? This video is a perfect example that we need more men in Geh Geh University of Wisdom and Understanding,” he said.

    “The only control you have over a woman is to walk away when things no longer serve you. That’s the only power you have, because you can’t control her decisions or actions.”

    He added that many men wrongly assume marriage guarantees loyalty, warning that emotional dependence can leave them exposed.

    “Marriage can never keep a woman. We’ve seen women who have been married for over 35 years and still walk away. Know when to walk away,” he stated.

    Reactions trail comments online

    His remarks have since sparked reactions, with many Nigerians sharing mixed opinions on his stance.

    One user wrote, “This one loud but na truth 😳,” while another added, “Some men go learn the hard way. Love don humble many people.”

    The conversation continues to build around relationships, personal boundaries, and emotional resilience.

    The story remains a talking point in latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today as reactions continue to pour in.

  • EFCC Arrests Tunde Ayeni Over Alleged ₦36.5bn, $30m Fraud

    The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has arrested businessman and former Skye Bank chairman, Tunde Ayeni, over alleged financial misconduct involving ₦36.5 billion and $30 million.

    Arrest in Abuja

    Ayeni was reportedly picked up in Abuja on Thursday and is currently in EFCC custody as investigations continue into the matter.

    Sources familiar with the case said the arrest is linked to an ongoing probe into alleged financial dealings connected to Polaris Bank Plc.

    Probe focuses on fund diversion

    According to the report, the anti-graft agency is investigating the alleged diversion and misappropriation of funds said to have been obtained through companies linked to the former bank chairman.

    The funds are suspected to have been moved through a network of corporate entities allegedly associated with him.

    Investigation ongoing

    While details of the case remain limited, sources indicated that the EFCC is examining the flow of funds and the roles played by the entities involved.

    The development adds to ongoing scrutiny of financial activities within Nigeria’s banking sector, as authorities continue efforts to tackle economic crimes.

    The case is already gaining traction in latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today as Nigerians await further updates from the EFCC.

     

  • Native Doctor Collapses in Court as Trial Over Alleged Illegal Practices Is Halted

    There was mild drama at a court in Nnewi, Anambra State, on Friday after a popular native doctor, Ikechukwu Ezenagu, also known as Mmuo Mmili Afulu Anya, reportedly collapsed during proceedings, forcing the suspension of his arraignment.

    Court session abruptly stopped

    The incident occurred as the defendant was being prepared to take his plea, prompting court officials to immediately halt proceedings after he was declared medically unfit to continue.

    Court sources said the situation created tension in the courtroom as attention quickly shifted from the arraignment to his health condition.

    Dispute over his condition

    However, the development took another turn after counsel to the defendant insisted that his client was actually fit to stand trial.

    The lawyer alleged that the accused may have been pretending to be ill in order to delay proceedings, though no medical confirmation was immediately made public.

    Case adjourned to June 2026

    Following the disruption, the court adjourned the matter to June 3, 2026, for continuation of hearing and further legal action.

    The defendant, popularly known as Aka Mmuo, was arrested on Thursday, March 12, 2026, over alleged involvement in illegal practices.

    His arrest followed a wider crackdown in Anambra State targeting traditionalists and native doctors suspected of preparing charms for individuals involved in criminal activities.

    The case has continued to draw attention as it moves through the justice system, featuring in latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today as the next court date approaches.