Author: Promise Odejide

  • Oyedepo Recounts Confronting Kidnappers, Tells Members to Give Them His Number

    A viral video has captured Bishop David Oyedepo, founder of Living Faith Church Worldwide (Winners Chapel), recounting an encounter with kidnappers during a church service.

    Oyedepo narrates dramatic incident

    In the footage, the cleric told his congregation how one of his pastors was kidnapped and how he intervened after speaking directly with the abductors.

    “Give them the phone… I commanded them to release him within 24 hours,” Oyedepo said.

    He added that the situation became tense after his warning, claiming the kidnappers became unsettled.

    Claims of unusual reaction

    Oyedepo further stated that the abductors reportedly began acting erratically following the threat, while the victim was later instructed to leave the location and return home.

    He also referenced a similar incident involving one of his daughters.

    Message to church members

    Addressing his congregation, the cleric advised members that if they are ever abducted, they should give the kidnappers his phone number.

    The statement has since drawn mixed reactions online, with many Nigerians debating the remarks and their implications.

  • KieKie Reveals She Lived With Husband Before Wedding, Explains Why

    Popular skit maker and actress KieKie, whose real name is Bukunmi Adeaga Ilori, has revealed that she lived with her husband, Tunji Ilori, for about four months before their wedding, citing practical reasons for the decision.

    Why she chose cohabitation

    Speaking during an interview with Toke Makinwa, the content creator said the move was influenced by timing and financial considerations.

    According to her, her rent had expired shortly before their planned white wedding in January, making it unnecessary to secure another lease.

    “My rent had expired, and we were getting married in January, so I said to myself, ‘Why pay another rent?’” she said.

    She added that although their traditional rites had already been completed, the arrangement was not disclosed in church at the time.

    Busy schedules shaped the experience

    KieKie noted that despite living together, both she and her husband were rarely at home due to demanding work schedules and frequent travels.

    According to her, the short period of cohabitation did not significantly change her understanding of her partner.

    “We’d already done our introduction… People might judge it, but I wasn’t going to waste money,” she added.

    Reactions trail revelation

    Her comments have since generated mixed reactions online, with some Nigerians debating the practicality of her decision while others focused on cultural and religious expectations around cohabitation.

    The conversation is gaining traction in latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today as discussions around relationships and marriage norms continue.

     

  • Trump Rules Out Nuclear Strike on Iran After Earlier Threats Raise Tension

    United States President Donald Trump has ruled out the use of nuclear weapons against Iran, days after earlier threats raised fears of a possible escalation in the conflict.

    Trump dismisses nuclear option

    Speaking to reporters at the White House on Thursday, Trump said conventional military strength was sufficient and there was no need for nuclear deployment.

    “No, I wouldn’t use it,” he said.

    “Why would I use a nuclear weapon when we’ve… in a very conventional way, decimated them without it?”

    He added that nuclear weapons should never be used by any country.

    Shift from earlier warning

    The statement marks a shift from Trump’s earlier remarks on April 7, when he warned that a “whole civilisation will die tonight,” a comment that sparked global concern.

    Hours after that threat, however, the US agreed to a ceasefire in the conflict involving Israel, a truce that has since been extended.

    Vance comments clarified

    During the crisis, Vice President JD Vance had suggested the US could deploy weapons “not previously used,” fuelling speculation about nuclear options.

    The White House later clarified that his statement did not refer to nuclear weapons.

    Vance was also involved in negotiations with Iran over its nuclear programme, though talks did not produce a breakthrough.

    Focus remains on Iran’s nuclear programme

    Reiterating his position, Trump said the US priority is to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.

    “We want an Iran without a nuclear weapon… that’s going to try and blow up one of our cities or the entire Middle East,” he said.

    Iran has repeatedly denied pursuing nuclear weapons, while the International Atomic Energy Agency has said an atomic bomb was not imminent before the conflict.

    Global context and policy stance

    The United States remains the only country to have used nuclear weapons in warfare, during World War II in Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

    Although Israel is widely believed to possess nuclear weapons, it has not officially confirmed its arsenal.

    Trump’s position contrasts with longstanding US defence policy, which keeps the option of nuclear use under extreme circumstances and has resisted calls for a “no first use” pledge.

    The development is drawing attention in latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today as global tensions and nuclear policy debates continue.

     

  • MTN to Begin Subscriber Compensation After NCC Directive on Poor Service

    MTN Nigeria is set to begin compensating its subscribers following a directive from the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), requiring telecom operators to refund users affected by poor network service.

    Automatic compensation for users

    The policy, which took effect in April 2026, mandates operators to identify affected customers and credit them directly without requiring any formal complaint or application.

    Subscribers who experienced dropped calls, slow data, or failed SMS may receive airtime or data compensation once service quality falls below NCC thresholds.

    Who qualifies for payback

    According to the guidelines, compensation applies only to users who experienced verified service disruptions within a specific period and carried out a paid activity such as calls, SMS, or data usage.

    However, brief or quickly resolved outages are excluded from the policy.

    The directive covers failures across voice, data, and messaging services.

    Shift in regulatory approach

    The move marks a significant shift in Nigeria’s telecom regulation, as consumers will now directly benefit from penalties imposed on operators.

    Previously, telecom companies were fined for poor service, but subscribers did not receive compensation.

    The NCC said the new framework prioritises consumer protection and accountability in service delivery.

    Directive timeline and enforcement

    The policy followed a directive issued by the NCC on March 29, 2026, instructing all telecom operators, including MTN, Airtel, Globacom, and 9mobile, to implement compensation measures.

    Further guidelines released on April 7 outlined how eligibility, timelines, and credit systems would be applied.

    The framework is backed by existing regulations, including the Consumer Code of Practice and Quality of Service standards.

    Industry pressure and infrastructure challenges

    The development comes amid ongoing challenges in Nigeria’s telecom sector, including frequent fibre cuts and infrastructure limitations that affect service quality.

    With over 180 million telecom users nationwide, regulators have faced increasing pressure to ensure operators are held accountable in ways that directly impact consumers.

    The move is already gaining attention in latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today as millions of subscribers await possible compensation.

     

  • Ruto Mocks Nigerian English After Tinubu’s Kenya Comparison Sparks Reactions

    Kenya’s President, William Ruto, has stirred reactions after taking a swipe at Nigerians while responding to recent remarks by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu comparing Nigeria’s economy to Kenya’s.

    Ruto’s remark sparks backlash

    In a viral video, Ruto defended Kenya’s standards while mocking Nigerian English.

    “Our education and English are good. If you listen to a Nigerian speak English, you’ll need a translator,” he said.

    The comment has since drawn mixed reactions online, with many Nigerians criticising the tone of his response.

    Tinubu’s comment triggers exchange

    Ruto’s remark follows Tinubu’s statement during a visit to Bayelsa State on April 10, where he compared Nigeria’s economic situation with that of other African countries, including Kenya.

    “Yes, I hear you… the fuel prices are biting hard,” Tinubu said.

    “But look around; let’s thank God together that we are better off than those in Kenya and other African countries.”

    The statement sparked debate among Nigerians, many of whom questioned the comparison.

    Opposition figures push back

    Former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, criticised the president’s position, urging a focus on realities on ground.

    “Nigerians should not be asked to find solace in comparisons that ignore their daily struggles,” he said.

    Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar also faulted the comparison, describing it as misleading.

    “It is both curious and troubling that the President would isolate fuel prices… while ignoring more critical indicators like purchasing power and cost of living,” Atiku said.

    He argued that affordability should be measured by income relative to expenses, adding that many Nigerians are under increasing economic pressure.

    Debate widens across borders

    The exchange has widened discussions about economic performance and national perception between Nigeria and Kenya.

    The development is trending in latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today, as reactions continue to build across social media and political circles.

  • NYSC Member Beaten to Death by Vigilantes in Benue After ‘Bike Thief’ Suspicion

    A serving National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, Ben Agir Une, has been beaten to death by a community vigilante group in Buruku Local Government Area of Benue State after he was allegedly mistaken for a motorcycle thief.

    Incident during night patrol

    The killing reportedly occurred late Sunday night between 11 pm and midnight at Mbajor settlement, near the Buruku Local Government Secretariat.

    Une, said to be serving in Gombe State, had returned home on a short break and was weeks away from completing his service year.

    How the attack happened

    Chairman of Buruku LGA, Raymond Aondoakura, confirmed the incident on Thursday, stating that the corps member was apprehended by vigilante members during a patrol.

    He said the group suspected him of being a bike snatcher and attacked him before he could properly identify himself.

    “Before he could explain himself and present his identification card, one of the leaders started beating him,” Aondoakura said.

    The chairman added that the victim was beaten into a coma and later died at a hospital.

    Arrests made, vigilante activities suspended

    Aondoakura confirmed that those involved in the attack have been arrested and handed over to the police for prosecution.

    “We have arrested all of them and handed them to the police for arraignment. We confirmed that the deceased was a serving corps member,” he said.

    He also announced the immediate suspension of vigilante operations in the area, stating that the groups have been disbanded pending proper regulation.

    Victim’s background

    Une was an indigene of Tongov in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area and was expected to complete his NYSC programme next month before the incident.

    Police yet to comment

    As of the time of filing this report, the Benue State Police Command had not issued an official statement on the development.

    The incident has sparked concern across communities and is trending in latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today amid calls for accountability and justice.

     

  • APC Shifts Presidential Primary to May 23 as Party Revises 2027 Election Timetable

    The All Progressives Congress (APC) has rescheduled its presidential primary election to May 23, 2026, from the earlier dates of May 15 and 16, as part of adjustments to its timetable for the 2027 general elections.

    Fresh timetable announced

    The update was announced by APC Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Duro Meseko, after the party’s 186th National Working Committee meeting in Abuja on Thursday.

    He said the revision affects key stages, including screening, appeals, and primary elections across all levels.

    “We now have a new revised timetable in accordance with the Constitution… the Electoral Act 2026, and INEC’s schedule,” Meseko said.

    Screening, forms timeline adjusted

    According to the new schedule, sale of nomination forms will run from April 25 to May 2, 2026, while submission of completed forms will close on May 4.

    Screening of aspirants for various positions will hold between May 6 and May 9, with presidential screening fixed for May 9.

    Publication of screening results is scheduled for May 11, while appeals will be heard between May 12 and May 13.

    Primary elections schedule

    The party outlined dates for its primaries across positions, beginning with House of Representatives on May 15, followed by Senate on May 18, and State House of Assembly on May 20.

    Governorship primaries will hold on May 21, while the presidential primary has now been moved to May 23.

    Post-primary appeals will follow between May 18 and May 25, depending on the position.

    Mode of primaries clarified

    Meseko said the APC will adopt both direct and consensus methods for its primaries, in line with the Electoral Act.

    “Aspirants are free to decide their preference… where consensus fails, it automatically reverts to direct primaries,” he explained.

    He also dismissed claims that nomination forms would be restricted, insisting they are open to all interested aspirants.

    Zamfara congress timetable released

    The party also released a separate timetable for ward, local government, and state congresses in Zamfara State, scheduled to begin on April 28.

    The process will include screening, elections, and appeals across different levels of party structure.

    INEC timeline in focus

    The adjustments come as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has fixed January 16, 2027, for presidential and National Assembly elections, with governorship and state assembly polls set for February 6.

    INEC also stated that party primaries must be conducted between April 23 and May 30, 2026.

    The revised APC timetable is now a key development in latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today as political parties intensify preparations for the 2027 elections.

     

  • Adelabu Directs Traffic in Ibadan After Exit as Power Minister, Sparks 2027 Buzz

    Former Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, was spotted directing traffic on a busy road in Ibadan on Thursday, hours after returning to the city amid growing political signals ahead of the 2027 elections.

    Viral moment on Ibadan road

    In a video circulating online, Adelabu was seen stepping out of his vehicle and controlling traffic flow like a road marshal.

    “He just came down and started directing cars. People were surprised, but some even hailed him,” an eyewitness said.

    The unusual scene quickly drew attention, with many linking it to his renewed political visibility in Oyo State.

    Warm reception fuels speculation

    Earlier in the day, Adelabu received a large welcome at the Ibadan airport, where supporters gathered to escort him in a lively procession to his residence.

    The reception is widely seen as a signal of his preparations for another run at the Oyo State governorship.

    Resignation clears path

    In his resignation letter addressed to President Bola Tinubu, Adelabu confirmed that he would leave office effective April 30, 2026.

    “This decision is in compliance with the provisions of the Electoral Act, as I intend to contest in the forthcoming election,” he said.

    His exit brings an end to his tenure as power minister, during which he said he focused on reforms in Nigeria’s electricity sector.

    Eyes on 2027 comeback

    Adelabu previously contested the Oyo governorship election in 2019 under the All Progressives Congress but lost to Governor Seyi Makinde.

    He ran again in 2023 under the Accord Party but was defeated.

    Despite those outcomes, his latest moves suggest a fresh push for the 2027 race, with supporters already expressing confidence.

    “This is just the beginning… we are ready for 2027,” one supporter said.

    The development is gaining traction in latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today as political activities begin to build ahead of the next election cycle.

  • Tinubu Meets APC Governors in Aso Villa Amid Party Consensus Concerns

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is currently meeting with governors elected on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, in a move that comes amid growing concerns over the party’s internal arrangements.

    Governors arrive for closed-door talks

    The meeting, holding inside the President’s office, has in attendance several APC governors, including Babagana Zulum (Borno), Hope Uzodimma (Imo), Inuwa Yahaya (Gombe), Hyacinth Alia (Benue), Biodun Oyebanji (Ekiti), Peter Mbah (Enugu), and AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq (Kwara).

    Some governors are also represented by their deputies.

    As of the time of filing this report, details of the meeting agenda have not been disclosed.

    Meeting follows Senate engagement

    The development comes less than 24 hours after Tinubu held a separate meeting with the leadership of the Senate.

    That earlier engagement was reportedly centred on concerns raised by lawmakers over the party’s ongoing consensus arrangement.

    Focus shifts to party direction

    While the outcome of the meeting remains unclear, the gathering is seen as part of ongoing consultations within the ruling party as it navigates internal dynamics.

    The development is already drawing attention in latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today, as stakeholders watch for signals from the APC leadership.

  • Zinoleesky Teases “Nostalgia” as ‘Zinodict Music’ Branding Fuels Independence Speculation

    Nigerian Afrobeats star Zinoleesky has set off fresh excitement after teasing his upcoming single “Nostalgia” with retro-themed artwork branded with “Zinodict Music,” triggering speculation about a possible new phase in his career.

    Retro teaser drives conversation

    The teaser features vintage cassette tapes boldly labeled “NOSTALGIA” and “ZINOLEESKY,” alongside the Zinodict Music imprint.

    The visuals, paired with his brief caption “Let’s eat!”, have quickly gained traction across social media, with fans pointing to a deliberate nostalgic and cinematic rollout.

    The single is widely expected to drop around midnight on April 24, with snippets and producer hints already circulating online.

    Zinodict Music takes centre stage

    Much of the conversation has focused on Zinodict Music, which many fans and blogs are describing as Zinoleesky’s personal label or creative imprint.

    Across platforms, the narrative has leaned toward “Nostalgia” being his first release under this new banner, with some describing it as the start of an independent era.

    Phrases like “first single under his label” and “new chapter” have dominated fan reactions, though no official confirmation has been issued.

    Speculation around Marlian Music

    Alongside the excitement, speculation has also linked the development to Zinoleesky’s long-standing affiliation with Marlian Music, owned by Naira Marley.

    Some online discussions have framed the move as a possible exit or transition to independence.

    However, neither Zinoleesky nor Marlian Music has confirmed any split, and the artist has previously dismissed similar rumours, reaffirming his loyalty to the label.

    Fans divided but optimistic

    Reactions remain mixed but largely positive, with some fans celebrating what they see as a bold step toward creative control, while others continue to identify with both “Zinodict” and “Marlian” communities.

    The dominant mood, however, leans toward anticipation, with many treating “Nostalgia” as more than just a single but a signal of artistic evolution.

    What comes next

    For now, the focus remains on the release itself and whether Zinodict Music represents a full transition, a side imprint, or simply a branding move.

    Clarity is expected once the song drops and the artiste provides further details.

    The development is already trending across latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today as fans watch closely for the next move.