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Author: Promise Odejide

  • Bala Mohammed Declares ‘Freelance Politician’ After Meeting Peter Obi in Bauchi

    Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed has described himself as a “freelance politician” after hosting former presidential candidate Peter Obi in Bauchi, in a meeting linked to ongoing opposition consultations ahead of the 2027 elections.

    ‘We are all in the opposition’

    Speaking after the closed-door meeting at Ramat House on Thursday, Mohammed said he is no longer tied strictly to any political party.

    “Neither PDP nor ADC is standing alone. I am a freelance politician now, and his party is also in limbo. We are looking up to the judiciary. But certainly, we are all in the opposition,” he said.

    He added that discussions focused on possible alignment and cooperation among opposition figures, though details were not disclosed.

    “It is about realignment, alignment and cooperation so that we can have a platform. We cannot go without a platform,” Mohammed stated.

    Obi leads delegation

    Peter Obi, now associated with the African Democratic Congress (ADC), led a delegation of political stakeholders from the South-East.

    The team included Senator Ben Obi, former Imo State Governor Achike Udenwa, Senators Enyinnaya Abaribe and Victor Umeh, as well as Prof. Udenta Udenta.

    Push for unity ahead of 2027

    Obi said the visit was aimed at strengthening national unity and building cross-regional cooperation.

    “My purpose is to solicit for the support and cooperation of His Excellency and the stakeholders of Bauchi and the Northeast in our quest to unite this country,” he said.

    “The country cannot continue the way it is today… we need to reverse that for everybody.”

    Talks signal opposition moves

    While both sides kept specifics of the discussions private, they confirmed that the talks centred on collaboration among opposition leaders.

    The meeting is the latest in a series of engagements between Mohammed and Obi, following a similar visit in August 2025 when the governor invited Obi to join the Peoples Democratic Party.

    Parties face legal uncertainty

    The development comes amid ongoing legal disputes within both the PDP and ADC, with key cases still pending before the Supreme Court.

    The uncertainty around party structures has further fuelled talks of political realignment ahead of 2027, making the development a major issue in latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today.

  • What You Should Know About Taiwo Oyedele, Tinubu’s New Finance Minister

    President Bola Ahmed Tinub has appointed Taiwo Oyedele as Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, placing a long-time tax reform advocate at the centre of Nigeria’s economic management.

    The appointment, confirmed in a memo signed by Secretary to the Government of the Federation George Akume, follows the exit of Wale Edun, with a handover deadline set for April 23.

    Rise from modest beginnings

    Taiwo Oyedele was born in 1975 in Ikare-Akoko, Ondo State, into a modest family background that he has often described as financially strained.

    He has spoken about experiencing poverty early in life, noting that his father’s generosity to others left the household struggling. One story he frequently recounts is how he nearly missed entry into primary school due to age restrictions, gaining admission only after an unusual test alongside his twin sister.

    Those early experiences, he has said, shaped his outlook on public service and economic reform.

    Academic and professional grounding

    Oyedele studied accountancy and finance at Yaba College of Technology before earning a BSc in Applied Accounting from Oxford Brookes University.

    He also attended executive programmes at the London School of Economics, Yale University, Harvard Kennedy School, and the Gordon Institute of Business Science.

    Beyond policy work, he is a professor at Babcock University and has served as a visiting scholar at Lagos Business School.

    Career at PwC and continental influence

    His professional journey began at PwC Nigeria during his NYSC year in 2001.

    From there, he rose through the ranks to become West Africa Tax Leader and eventually Africa Tax Leader, overseeing tax operations across more than 30 countries.

    During this period, he built a reputation for simplifying complex tax systems and advocating for transparency and stronger fiscal governance across African economies.

    Architect of Nigeria’s tax reforms

    Before joining the federal cabinet, Oyedele chaired the Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms.

    In that role, he led efforts to restructure Nigeria’s tax system, focusing on improving compliance, boosting government revenue, and reducing inefficiencies.

    His work positioned him as one of the key figures behind the country’s recent fiscal reform drive.

    Personal risks and public service

    Oyedele has also spoken openly about the personal cost of pushing reforms.

    He revealed that he received death threats linked to his work, forcing him to relocate his family to a secure location under police protection.

    “My family got a death threat… I had to pack out of my house,” he said, adding that the experience deeply affected his wife and elderly mother.

    Despite the risks, he has maintained that his motivation for public service is impact rather than personal gain.

    New role, rising expectations

    With his elevation from Minister of State for Finance to substantive minister, Oyedele is now expected to lead Nigeria’s economic strategy at a critical time.

    His background in tax policy and fiscal reform is seen as central to ongoing efforts to stabilise the economy, improve revenue generation, and drive long-term growth.

    As his tenure begins, his profile continues to draw attention in latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today, with stakeholders watching how his ideas translate into policy outcomes.

  • Seun Kuti’s Sister Motunrayo Attacks VDM, Sparks Backlash After Singer’s Fallout

    Motunrayo Bakare, sister of Seun Kuti, has stirred fresh controversy after reacting to the ongoing fallout between her brother and social media critic Martins Otse, known as VeryDarkMan (VDM).

    Reaction follows Seun–VDM clash

    Her comments come shortly after Seun Kuti and VDM unfollowed each other on Instagram following tensions linked to activist Omoyele Sowore.

    The dispute had already sparked reactions online, with Seun earlier referring to VDM’s supporters as “rats” during the exchange.

    Motunrayo defends family legacy

    In a video shared online, Motunrayo took aim at VDM’s supporters, known as “Ratels,” accusing them of lacking respect for her father, Afrobeat legend Fela Anikulapo-Kuti.

    She questioned whether VDM should be placed above Fela, insisting the late icon’s legacy should not be disrespected.

    Motunrayo added that if she were in charge of her father’s estate, she would have taken legal action against individuals she believes misuse his name.

    Personal remarks escalate tension

    The situation escalated further as she directed personal comments at VDM, alleging issues about his family background.

    She also mocked his supporters, claiming many of them are struggling financially while she continues to benefit from her father’s legacy.

    Backlash trails video

    Her remarks have since drawn criticism online, with many accusing her of going too far.

    Some users argued that VDM did not insult Fela, while others questioned her tone and approach to the situation.

    A section of users also pushed back strongly, with some making controversial comparisons between the activist and the late music icon.

    Debate continues online

    The exchange has extended the already heated feud, keeping both camps in the spotlight as reactions continue to pour in across social media platforms.

    The development adds to trending conversations in latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today, as public attention remains fixed on the growing tension.

     

  • Iran-Linked Tankers Bypass US Hormuz Blockade as Trump Insists Pressure Is Working

    At least 34 Iran-linked tankers have reportedly bypassed the United States blockade in the Strait of Hormuz, raising fresh questions over its effectiveness even as US President Donald Trump insists the pressure is hitting Iran’s economy hard.

    Tankers slip past blockade

    A report by the Financial Times said dozens of vessels linked to Iran moved through the strategic waterway in recent days despite the blockade imposed on April 13.

    Out of the 34 ships, at least 19 tankers exited the Gulf while 15 others entered from the Arabian Sea heading toward Iran.

    Among those that left, six were confirmed to be carrying Iranian crude oil, with an estimated 10.7 million barrels valued at roughly $910 million based on discounted pricing.

    Evasion tactics exposed

    One of the vessels, Dorena, reportedly switched off its tracking transponder before passing through the Strait.

    It later carried out a ship-to-ship oil transfer off Malaysia to disguise the origin of the cargo.

    Other sanctioned vessels, including Murlikishan and Alicia, were also said to have entered the Gulf despite restrictions.

    US claims success despite gaps

    Trump, however, maintained that the United States “totally controls” the Strait of Hormuz and described the blockade as a “tremendous success.”

    He said the restrictions would remain until a final agreement is reached with Iran.

    “Iran is collapsing financially… They want the Strait of Hormuz opened immediately,” Trump wrote, claiming Tehran is losing up to $500 million daily.

    US Central Command also said American forces had directed 28 vessels to turn back since the blockade began, though only a few ships have been detained or boarded so far.

    Tensions deepen in strategic waters

    Iran, on its part, said control of the Strait has “reverted to its previous state,” adding that vessels now require clearance from its naval forces.

    The situation has further escalated with reports of attacks on ships in the waterway, underscoring growing tensions between Washington and Tehran.

    US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the blockade targets Iran’s key revenue streams, warning that any entity aiding Iranian oil trade risks sanctions.

    Global concerns rise

    The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical global shipping route for oil, and disruptions have continued to raise concerns over energy markets and international trade.

    The unfolding developments are dominating global headlines and feature prominently in latest Nigerian news, as well as breaking news Nigeria today, given their impact on global oil prices and economic stability.

  • Tinubu Seeks N698bn Loan for Sokoto–Badagry Highway as Senate Begins Review

    President Bola Tinubu has asked the Senate to approve a fresh N698 billion loan for the construction of the Sokoto–Badagry super highway, a major infrastructure project linking northern and southern Nigeria.

    Loan request before Senate

    The request was conveyed in a letter read at plenary on Thursday by Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

    Tinubu said the loan would fund Sections 1, Phase 1a and 1b, covering 120km of the planned 1,000km corridor.

    The highway is designed to run from Illela in Sokoto State through Kebbi, Niger, Kwara, Oyo, and Ogun, terminating in Badagry, Lagos State.

    Financing structure outlined

    According to the president, the project will be financed through a syndicated loan to be secured via Deutsche Bank AG, with support from the Islamic Corporation for the Insurance of Investment and Export Credit.

    He added that the Federal Government would provide counterpart funding of ₦265.5 billion for land acquisition, compensation, and related infrastructure.

    The loan has a nine-year tenor, including a grace period of up to three years, with interest capped at CME SOFR plus 5.3 percent annually.

    Project aims and expected impact

    Tinubu noted that the super highway is expected to improve connectivity between the North and South, enhance road safety, and reduce logistics costs.

    He also said the project would support trade, boost food security, and strengthen national cohesion by linking production zones to markets and ports.

    The design includes provisions for future rail integration and utility corridors along the central median.

    Senate moves to review proposal

    Akpabio referred the request to the Senate Committee on Foreign and Local Debts, which is expected to report back within one week.

    Senator Mohammed Adamu Aliero (Kebbi Central) backed the project, describing it as long overdue.

    “This project has been on the ground for the last 55 years… I have inspected the project and I have seen the progress made,” he said.

    He added that ongoing work includes both concrete and asphalt sections fitted with solar streetlights.

    Aliero estimated that the road could cut travel time from Sokoto to Lagos by over 70 percent, reducing the journey from about 13 hours to roughly six hours.

    The proposal is now under legislative scrutiny and remains a key issue in latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today as infrastructure financing debates continue.

  • Asake Sets May 1 Release for ‘M$NEY’ Album With 13 Tracks, Global Features

    Nigerian Afrobeats star Asake has confirmed May 1, 2026, as the release date for his fourth studio album, ‘M$NEY,’ a 13-track project already generating anticipation across the music scene.

    Album rollout begins

    The announcement was made alongside a promotional video showing a marble sculpture of the singer being carved, signaling the start of the album rollout.

    Details also confirm that ‘M$NEY’ is available for pre-save on Apple Music ahead of its official release under EMPIRE Distribution, Records and Publishing Inc.

    What to expect from ‘M$NEY’

    The project will feature 13 tracks, including previously released singles such as “WHY LOVE,” “BADMAN GANGSTA” featuring Tiakola, and “WORSHIP” featuring DJ Snake.

    The album continues Asake’s approach of blending solo records with international collaborations in the lead-up to a full project drop.

    Momentum builds ahead of release

    The upcoming album follows a consistent run of releases from the artiste, who has remained active with both solo and joint projects in recent months.

    His earlier 2026 collaboration with Wizkid also added to his visibility and momentum within the industry.

    Sound and global appeal

    Asake has built his brand around a fusion of Yoruba-influenced melodies, Afrobeats, and Amapiano, a sound that has defined his rise on the global stage.

    With ‘M$NEY’ now scheduled, attention is shifting to how the project will shape conversations in the industry and expand his growing catalogue.

    The announcement is already trending across latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today as fans count down to the release.

     

  • Bandits Attack Kogi Community, Abduct Pastors, Families in Night Raid

    Suspected bandits have attacked Odo-Eri community in Yagba West LGA of Kogi State, abducting several residents including clergymen and their families in a late-night raid that has triggered fresh security concerns.

    Night attack sparks panic

    Local sources said the attackers stormed the community around 10 p.m. on Wednesday, firing gunshots to scare residents before carrying out the abductions.

    The victims reportedly include pastors, their wives, children, aides, and other residents, though the exact number remains unclear.

    “We cannot confirm the exact number or identities of those abducted at this time. Many residents fled for safety during the chaos,” a source said.

    Clergymen among victims

    Information circulating within the community indicates that a pastor from the Christ Apostolic Church and another from the Redeemed Christian Church of God, alongside their families, were among those taken.

    Residents said the gunfire threw the area into panic, forcing many to flee their homes by Thursday morning.

    Sources added that the attackers escaped through Abewo Road, linking Okunran and Okoloke communities toward the Kwara State axis.

    Senator reacts, urges action

    Senator Sunday Karimi, representing Kogi West, condemned the attack and warned against a return to worsening insecurity in the area.

    “Unknown gunmen reportedly invaded Odo-Eri community and abducted a pastor of the Redeemed Christian Church of God alongside his wife, children, and several other residents,” he said.

    He described the incident as a desperate act by criminal elements under pressure and expressed confidence that those responsible would be apprehended.

    Karimi also urged security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue the victims and called on residents to remain vigilant and share credible information.

    Police yet to respond

    Efforts to reach the Kogi State Police Command spokesperson, ASP Saliu Oyiza Afusat, were unsuccessful as calls and messages were not answered at the time of filing this report.

    The latest incident adds to growing concerns over insecurity, with communities continuing to face attacks from armed groups, a development dominating latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today.

     

  • Blessing CEO Apologises Over Cancer Claim Controversy, Offers Refunds to Donors

    Nigerian influencer Blessing Okoro, popularly known as Blessing CEO, has issued a public apology following backlash over her claim of battling stage four cancer, a situation that has triggered intense online scrutiny and debate.

    How the controversy started

    The issue gained attention after Blessing shared a medical report online while soliciting financial support for her treatment.

    However, the document was later disputed by Xinus Medical Diagnostics, which alleged it was altered and originally issued to another patient. The claim escalated further after the individual linked to the report publicly reacted, leading to petitions and calls for investigation, including from the Nigerian Cancer Society.

    Blessing CEO breaks silence

    In a statement shared on Instagram on Wednesday, Blessing apologised for the confusion and emotional reactions the matter has generated, while maintaining that her health condition is genuine.

    “I am sorry for the unnecessary drama, embarrassment, and controversy surrounding my health issues,” she wrote.

    She added that she intends to be more transparent moving forward, promising to release detailed medical records.

    “I will start by officially uploading my scan results and biopsy details and keep you all informed every step of the way,” she said.

    Refund offer to supporters

    The influencer also addressed Nigerians who contributed financially to her treatment, expressing gratitude for their support.

    “To well-meaning Nigerians who contributed towards my health, I am deeply grateful,” she said.

    She further stated that anyone uncomfortable with the controversy could request a refund.

    “Kindly send a WhatsApp message or DM with your receipt and account details, and you will be refunded,” she added.

    Medical updates shared

    In follow-up posts, Blessing shared images from medical scans and showed her hand, explaining that repeated procedures had affected her veins.

    “My hands have been through a lot due to repeated punctures,” she wrote.

    Public reactions continue

    The development has continued to spark mixed reactions online, with many users demanding clearer medical evidence while others focus on accountability in online fundraising and influencer-led donations.

    The controversy has also reignited conversations around trust, transparency, and the growing trend of health-related crowdfunding in Nigeria, making it one of the trending issues in latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today.

     

  • FAAC Shares N2.036trn March Revenue Amid Mixed Oil, Tax Returns

    The Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) has shared N2.036 trillion among the three tiers of government for March 2026, reflecting a mix of rising tax revenues and declining oil-related earnings.

    How the funds were shared

    The allocation was finalised in Abuja during FAAC’s monthly meeting chaired by the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Taiwo Oyedele.

    According to a communiqué issued after the meeting, the federal government received N789.159 billion, states got N657.596 billion, while local government councils were allocated N468.826 billion.

    Oil-producing states also received N120.759 billion as 13 per cent derivation revenue.

    Breakdown of revenue sources

    The distributable sum of N2.036 trillion was drawn from a gross revenue of N2.364 trillion.

    This included N1.320 trillion from statutory revenue, N515.391 billion from Value Added Tax (VAT), and an augmentation of N200 billion.

    From statutory revenue alone, the federal government received N632.260 billion, states got N320.691 billion, while local governments received N247.239 billion.

    VAT distribution details

    Out of the N515.391 billion VAT pool, the federal government received N51.539 billion, states were allocated N283.465 billion, and local governments got N180.387 billion.

    Revenue performance shows mixed trends

    The communiqué revealed that gross statutory revenue rose to N1.699 trillion in March, an increase of N137.914 billion compared to February’s N1.561 trillion.

    However, VAT revenue dipped slightly to N664.425 billion, down by N4.025 billion from the previous month.

    From the total revenue, N81.084 billion was deducted as cost of collection, while N246.872 billion was set aside for transfers, refunds, and savings.

    Taxes rise, oil earnings fall

    In terms of performance, Companies Income Tax (CIT), Capital Gains Tax (CGT), Stamp Duties, and Excise Duties recorded notable increases.

    On the other hand, Petroleum Profit Tax (PPT), Hydrocarbon Tax, Oil and Gas Royalties, Import Duty, and Common External Tariff (CET) declined. VAT collections also recorded a slight drop.

    The latest FAAC allocation highlights ongoing shifts in Nigeria’s revenue structure, with stronger tax contributions offsetting weaker oil inflows, a trend that continues to shape latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today.

     

  • INEC Chair Amupitan Speaks on ‘Divine Conviction’ After Appointment Amid Neutrality Concerns

    Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joash Amupitan, has said he only accepted the role after receiving what he described as a “clear divine conviction,” even as questions over his neutrality continue to trail his leadership.

    ‘I would have declined’

    Amupitan spoke in Abuja during an end-of-tenure service organised by the Nigerian Baptist Convention for its outgoing president, Israel Akanji, and his wife, Victoria.

    According to him, the decision to lead Nigeria’s electoral body was not taken lightly.

    “If I did not have the conviction for this job, I would not accept it,” he said.

    He added that he drew strength from what he described as a direct assurance from God before taking up the position.

    “The Lord said, ‘Fear not; do not be dismayed. I will strengthen you; I will help you; I will uphold you.’ I heard this clearly before I accepted this job,” Amupitan stated.

    Faith amid pressure

    The INEC chairman said that conviction has remained central to his leadership, especially given the complexity of managing elections in Nigeria.

    “No matter the storm, no matter the difficulty, God is able to calm every storm. That is what God has been doing,” he said.

    He also urged Nigerians to pray for the electoral body ahead of the 2027 general election, expressing confidence that the polls could set a new standard.

    “Continue to pray for Nigeria… that the 2027 election will be the best ever,” he said, adding that success would require divine support.

    Controversy over neutrality

    Amupitan’s remarks come against the backdrop of ongoing scrutiny over his perceived political neutrality.

    He was appointed by President Bola Tinubu in October 2025 to succeed former INEC chairman Mahmood Yakubu.

    Since then, resurfaced social media posts allegedly linked to him have sparked allegations of sympathy for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) during the 2023 elections.

    The claims have triggered calls from opposition figures and civil society groups for his resignation.

    Denial and pushback

    Amupitan has denied operating the account linked to the posts and insisted he remains politically neutral.

    INEC has also dismissed the allegations, describing them as attempts to discredit its leadership.

    Despite the denials, the controversy has continued to shape public discourse around electoral credibility, voter confidence, and the integrity of the commission ahead of 2027.

    The development remains a key talking point in latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today as attention shifts to preparations for the next general election.