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Author: Promise Odejide

  • DSS Arraigns El-Rufai Over Alleged Wiretapping of Ribadu’s Phone, Files Fresh Charges

    The Department of State Services (DSS) has arraigned former Kaduna governor Nasir el-Rufai before a federal high court in Abuja over allegations of illegally accessing the phone conversation of National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu.

    Fresh charges filed in court

    At Thursday’s proceedings, the prosecution informed the court that the charge had been amended from three to five counts.

    Presiding judge, Justice Joyce Abdulmalik, subsequently struck out the earlier charges and allowed the amended five-count charge to stand.

    El-Rufai, who also served as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, pleaded not guilty to all counts.

    What led to the case

    The charges are linked to remarks made by el-Rufai in February during an interview on Arise Television’s Prime Time programme.

    He had claimed that individuals aligned with him listened to Ribadu’s phone conversation, alleging that the NSA directed security operatives to arrest him.

    “He made the call because we listened to their calls. The government thinks they are the only ones that listen to calls but we also have our ways,” el-Rufai said at the time.

    He further alleged that Ribadu’s phone was tapped and that the information was passed to him.

    Mixed reactions trail allegations

    The comments triggered widespread reactions across Nigeria, with some Nigerians and political stakeholders calling for his arrest over the alleged wiretapping.

    Others, however, argued that the former governor should not be singled out, accusing the government of similar actions against citizens.

    Political tension in the background

    El-Rufai, once a strong ally of President Bola Tinubu, has in recent months been openly critical of the administration and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

    His arraignment has been described by opposition figures as politically motivated, though the federal government has denied any witch-hunt.

    The case is expected to continue in court as attention builds around one of the most talked-about developments in latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today.

  • Peller Sparks Backlash After Mocking Roby Ekpo’s Emotional Breakdown Over Failed Marriage

    Popular Nigerian TikToker Hamzat Habeeb Adelaja, known as Peller, has come under fire after publicly mocking media personality Roby Ekpo over his emotional reaction to the collapse of his marriage, a moment that has stirred widespread debate online.

    Podcast moment that triggered it

    The controversy follows Ekpo’s appearance on The Honest Bunch Podcast, where he broke down while discussing the end of his 11-year relationship with estranged wife, Mayowa Lambe.

    During the interview, Ekpo alleged infidelity, deception, and financial struggles. He also claimed that Lambe secretly remarried in the United States, a revelation that appeared to deepen his emotional response.

    Peller’s reaction goes viral

    In a video now circulating online, Peller repeatedly played a clip from the podcast and questioned why Ekpo would cry publicly over a failed relationship.

    “How can you be crying over a woman in 2026?” he said, expressing disbelief.

    The streamer went further, boasting about his own emotional strength and claiming he had faced tougher relationship experiences without breaking down.

    He added that if he shared his own story, Ekpo might “cry on his behalf,” insisting he would never cry over love again because it reflects weakness.

    Social media erupts

    Peller’s comments quickly sparked mixed reactions, with many Nigerians criticising his remarks as insensitive and disrespectful.

    A user, @stylishnene, wrote, “This is what Nigerians allow. A child speaks about a 50 plus old in such a manner… Why? He is rich.”

    Another, @toseendayo, said, “Peller wey nearly kpai when Jarvis leave am dey call Roby weak man? Pot calling kettle black.”

    @popsynightmare2 added, “U literally destroyed your GLE and intended to spoil your life because of Jarvis.”

    Others also pointed to past reports involving Peller’s own emotional reactions to relationship issues, questioning the consistency of his stance.

    Wider conversation on emotions and masculinity

    The incident has since reignited conversations around emotional expression, especially among men, and how public figures respond to vulnerable moments shared online.

    As reactions continue to pour in, the clash between both personalities remains one of the trending discussions across social platforms.

    This story continues to gain traction in latest Nigerian news and reflects the tone of breaking news Nigeria today as social media debates intensify.

  • LP Chair Nenadi Usman Says It’s “Too Late” for Peter Obi to Return for 2027 Ticket

    Labour Party Chairman Nenadi Usman has said it would be too late for the party’s former presidential candidate, Peter Obi, to return and contest under its platform ahead of the 2027 general election.

    “It will be too late” — Usman explains

    Speaking on Prime Time on Arise Television, Usman said party procedures and electoral guidelines would prevent any late return.

    “Well, it will be too late, actually for him to come back… once we close the register 21 days before primaries and submit the e-register to INEC, you can’t come from behind the door,” she said.

    She stressed that the timeline makes it impossible for new entrants to be registered and cleared to contest once the process is closed.

    Acknowledges Obi’s impact on party

    Despite her position, Usman admitted that Obi played a major role in building the Labour Party’s current profile.

    “Even me, he convinced me to come with him… many people that are in Labour Party today were convinced by Peter because we believed in equity and fairness,” she said.

    She added that no current party member commands the same level of political momentum Obi brought during the 2023 election.

    Explains defection from PDP

    Usman also spoke on her decision to leave the Peoples Democratic Party, linking it to disagreements over zoning.

    “We believed that PDP should have zoned the seat to the south… though I’m a Northerner, I felt it was not fair,” she said.

    Her stance, she noted, led to her move to the Labour Party alongside others who shared similar concerns.

    Focus on party ideology and leadership

    Looking ahead, the LP chairman said the party would return to its core principles of social justice and equal opportunity.

    She pointed to Abia State Governor Alex Otti as a leading example of the party’s ideals in practice.

    “He is what I would say is the ambassador of the Labour Party… and he’s doing very well,” she said.

    Call for political participation

    Usman also urged Nigerians, particularly activists and unionists, to participate more actively in politics.

    “If you think you’re an activist… come contest elections, because you cannot change from outside,” she said.

    The comments have added to ongoing discussions around party alignments and preparations for the next election cycle in latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today.

  • Troops Kill 24 Terrorists, Repel Midnight Attack on Kukareta in Borno

    Troops of Sector 2, Operation HADIN KAI, have neutralised 24 terrorists after repelling a coordinated midnight attack on Kukareta community in Borno State.

    Midnight attack repelled after fierce gun battle

    Security sources said the attack began around midnight and lasted until about 3:00 a.m. on Thursday before troops overpowered the insurgents.

    The troops engaged the attackers in a prolonged firefight, inflicting heavy casualties and forcing them to retreat.

    At least 24 terrorists were confirmed killed during the operation.

    Weapons recovered from insurgents

    Following the encounter, troops recovered a cache of weapons, including 18 AK-47 rifles, three General Purpose Machine Guns, and two PKT anti-aircraft guns.

    Other items recovered include three Rocket Propelled Grenade tubes, two mortar tubes, four hand grenades, and 18 AK-47 magazines.

    A large quantity of 7.62mm ammunition used for anti-aircraft weapons was also recovered at the scene.

    Casualties recorded among troops

    Two soldiers sustained gunshot injuries during the operation and are currently receiving medical treatment.

    Military sources described the operation as a significant success in ongoing counter-insurgency efforts in the North-East.

    Rising attacks across the region

    The development comes amid increased attacks by terrorist groups, including Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters, targeting military formations in recent weeks.

    Some of the attacks have resulted in casualties among security personnel, including senior officers.

    Security analysts say the renewed assaults may be aimed at weakening military operations and looting weapons from bases.

    Ongoing operations intensify

    The latest operation adds to recent military actions in Borno, including airstrikes in parts of the Sambisa Forest targeting terrorist hideouts.

    Troops continue to intensify efforts to contain insurgency activities across the region.

    The incident is part of ongoing security developments featured in latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today.

     

  • Yul Edochie Links Peter Obi’s Political Setbacks to APGA Oath, Sparks Debate

    Nollywood actor Yul Edochie has stirred fresh controversy after claiming that Peter Obi’s recent political struggles are linked to an alleged oath he took while in the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA).

    Yul makes fresh claim about Obi

    In a post shared via his X handle, Edochie alleged that Obi’s presidential ambition remains tied to APGA, insisting that leaving the party has affected his political progress.

    “Peter Obi’s Presidential ambition is tied to APGA. The party he swore he would never leave,” he wrote.

    He further claimed that Obi made a vow before party stakeholders that he would not leave the party and would struggle politically if he did.

    “Oaths are powerful” — Edochie insists

    Edochie argued that the alleged oath is responsible for Obi’s inability to secure electoral victory despite strong public support.

    “He said if he leaves APGA, he may never achieve anything politically… That’s why he hasn’t achieved anything politically since then,” he stated.

    He added that the former Anambra governor still has a chance at the presidency in 2031 but only if he returns to APGA.

    Political history and party switches

    Peter Obi, who was the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 election, secured over six million votes, finishing third in the race.

    He has since moved politically and is now associated with the African Democratic Congress (ADC), where he is seeking the presidential ticket alongside other top contenders.

    Reactions trail controversial statement

    Edochie’s comments have triggered mixed reactions online, with supporters and critics debating the role of political decisions, party structures, and personal beliefs in electoral outcomes.

    The statement has further fueled ongoing discussions around Nigeria’s evolving political landscape and future elections.

    The development is trending across latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today as conversations around the next election cycle continue.

     

  • Tinubu Moves to Waive Airlines’ Debts, Slash Ticket Charges Amid Jet A1 Crisis

    President Bola Tinubu has approved plans to waive debts owed by domestic airlines and reduce multiple charges on flight tickets, as part of urgent measures to ease pressure from the rising cost of Jet A1 fuel.

    Keyamo reveals presidency’s intervention

    Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, disclosed the development on Wednesday after a meeting with airline operators and oil marketers in Abuja.

    “I had the privilege of meeting Mr. President… The first request that he will consider and grant is a generous discount on the debts the airlines are owing aviation agencies,” Keyamo said.

    He noted that the decision affects debts owed to agencies such as NAMA, FAAN, and NCAA, with the final percentage of relief to be determined by the president.

    Fresh plan to cut ticket charges

    Keyamo also revealed that Tinubu has directed the formation of a committee to review and remove multiple levies, taxes, and fees on domestic air tickets.

    “He wants to set up a committee to address the issue of levies, taxes, and fees on domestic tickets once and for all,” the minister said.

    The committee is expected to submit recommendations within a short timeframe, with the aim of reducing costs for air travellers.

    Airlines push for full waiver

    Reacting to the proposal, Air Peace Chairman Allen Onyema urged the president to go further by approving a total waiver of all airline debts.

    He also called for a temporary suspension of payments by operators until global fuel supply stabilises.

    Onyema commended Tinubu’s responsiveness, citing the recent removal of the 4 per cent Free on Board charge as a positive step.

    Funding concerns raised

    The airline boss further highlighted the high cost of financing in Nigeria, noting that operators access loans at rates between 30 and 35 per cent, compared to about 3 per cent globally.

    “In Nigeria, we acquire at 30 to 35 per cent. This is killing,” Onyema said, urging the government to strengthen the Bank of Industry to support airlines with lower-interest funding.

    Relief expected for aviation sector

    The proposed measures are expected to provide temporary relief for airline operators and passengers amid the ongoing fuel crisis affecting flight operations across the country.

    The development is already gaining attention in latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today as stakeholders await implementation details.

  • Adebayo Adelabu Resigns as Power Minister to Pursue Oyo Governorship Bid

    Minister of Power, Adebayo Adelabu, has resigned from the Federal Executive Council to pursue his governorship ambition in Oyo State, with his exit set to take effect on April 30, 2026.

    Resignation letter to Tinubu

    In a letter dated April 22, 2026, and addressed to President Bola Tinubu, Adelabu said his decision was taken with “a deep sense of honour and profound gratitude.”

    “I write with a deep sense of honour and profound gratitude to formally tender my resignation as the Honourable Minister of Power… This resignation is to take effect on 30th April 2026,” he stated.

    The letter was routed through the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation to allow for a smooth transition.

    Focus shifts to Oyo ambition

    Adelabu said his resignation would enable him concentrate fully on his governorship ambition in Oyo State.

    “My decision to step down is informed by my intention to focus fully on my gubernatorial ambition in Oyo State,” he wrote.

    He added that the move aligns with provisions of the Amended Electoral Act 2026, which bars political appointees from contesting elections while in office.

    Gratitude and reflections on service

    The former minister thanked President Tinubu for the opportunity to serve, describing his appointment as a privilege.

    “It has been a rare honour to contribute to national development under your leadership and to play a role in advancing reforms in the power sector,” he said.

    Adelabu also referenced his earlier resignation from the Central Bank of Nigeria in 2018 to pursue the same political ambition.

    Political implications ahead of election cycle

    His resignation signals a major shift in Oyo State politics as preparations for the next electoral cycle gather pace.

    Adelabu is expected to join the race for the governorship seat, setting the stage for intensified political activities in the state.

    The development is already drawing attention across latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today as stakeholders begin to position for the contest.

     

  • Abducted UNIJOS Graduate John Arum Azi Regains Freedom After 10 Days in Captivity

    John Arum Azi, a former student of the University of Jos (UNIJOS), has regained his freedom after spending 10 days in captivity after he was abducted while travelling to Kaduna State.

    Abduction on road to Zaria

    Arum, a graduate of Early Childhood Education, was kidnapped by armed men while travelling from Jos, Plateau State, to Zaria in Kaduna State.

    His abduction had earlier sparked public outrage after a video surfaced showing him being assaulted by his captors, who demanded a ransom for his release.

    The kidnappers initially demanded ₦30 million, threatening to kill him if the money was not paid.

    Ransom negotiations and increased demands

    Following negotiations with his family, the ransom was reportedly reduced to ₦6 million.

    However, after payment was made with support from well-meaning Nigerians, the abductors allegedly demanded an additional ₦4 million before agreeing to release him.

    The repeated demands further heightened tension around the case and drew widespread condemnation online.

    Freedom after 10 days

    The victim was eventually released on Wednesday after spending about 10 days in captivity.

    A video shared on social media by his family confirmed his release and reunion with loved ones.

    He has since been reunited with his family, bringing relief to relatives and supporters who had followed the case closely.

    Rising insecurity concerns

    The incident adds to growing concerns over kidnappings along major travel routes in parts of northern and central Nigeria, where ransom-related abductions continue to be reported.

  • Yul Edochie Under Fire After Advising Men to “Replace Heartbreak With 5 Women and Get Them Pregnant”

    Nollywood actor Yul Edochie has sparked widespread criticism on social media after sharing a controversial piece of advice directed at men dealing with heartbreak, a statement that quickly triggered backlash online.

    Yul Edochie reacts to Do2dtun’s post

    The actor responded to a recent emotional post by media personality Do2dtun, who encouraged men to speak out and avoid suffering in silence.

    While Do2dtun’s message focused on emotional expression and mental well-being, Yul Edochie took a different position, dismissing crying as unacceptable for men.

    “Replace her with 5 women” — actor’s controversial advice

    In his post, Edochie suggested that men should move on from heartbreak in an extreme manner rather than express emotional pain.

    “My brother Do2, speaking out is ok. Crying is totally unacceptable. Rather than cry for a woman, replace her with 5 new hot women, impregnate all of them at once,” he wrote.

    The statement immediately drew mixed reactions across social media platforms.

    Online backlash and debate

    Many users criticised the actor’s comments, describing them as irresponsible and insensitive, especially in discussions around emotional health and relationships.

    Others argued that the statement was another example of his controversial public persona, which has often attracted attention online.

    Do2dtun’s earlier message, which promoted emotional openness and speaking out during difficult times, continued to gain support from users who disagreed with Edochie’s stance.

    Ongoing conversation

    The incident has reignited conversations around masculinity, emotional expression, and relationship advice from public figures.

  • Nigeria’s Ambassador-Designate to Algeria Mohammed Mahmud Lele Dies in Türkiye After Prolonged Illness

    Nigeria’s ambassador-designate to Algeria, Mohammed Mahmud Lele, has died in Ankara, Türkiye, after a prolonged illness, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has confirmed.

    Foreign Affairs Ministry confirms death

    The ministry announced his passing in a statement issued in Abuja by its spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, noting that Lele died in the early hours of April 19, 2026.

    He was said to have been receiving treatment before his death in Türkiye.

    Recent ambassadorial appointment

    Until his passing, Lele served as Director of the Middle East and Gulf Division at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

    He had recently been appointed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as ambassador-designate to Algeria following Senate confirmation, a posting he did not live to assume.

    Diplomatic career and background

    Born in Gamawa, Bauchi State, in 1976, Lele studied Economics at Bayero University Kano.

    Over the course of his career, he held several diplomatic postings in cities including Berlin, Lomé, and Riyadh.

    The ministry described him as a committed career diplomat with a strong record of service in Nigeria’s foreign missions.

    Final rites and burial

    His remains were received at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dunoma Umar Ahmed.

    He was later buried in Kano in accordance with Islamic rites.

    Nation mourns diplomat

    The ministry said his death represents a significant loss to Nigeria’s foreign service, especially at a time of expanding diplomatic engagements across Africa and the Middle East.