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Author: Promise Odejide

  • COVID-19 Resurfaces in Cross River After Years, State Moves to Trace Contacts

    A fresh case of COVID-19 has been confirmed in Cross River State, marking the first significant infection since 2022, as health authorities begin contact tracing linked to an infected foreign national.

    How the case emerged

    The Cross River State Ministry of Health confirmed that the case involves a Chinese national who tested positive after showing symptoms weeks after arriving Nigeria.

    Commissioner for Health, Henry Ayuk, disclosed that the patient entered the country on March 17, 2026, but began showing signs on April 10.

    He said the timeline suggests the infection may have been contracted within Nigeria after the incubation period.

    Response from authorities

    Health officials have moved swiftly, deploying teams to Akamkpa Local Government Area, where the patient lived and worked.

    Contact tracing and profiling of individuals who may have been exposed are currently ongoing.

    Ayuk urged residents to remain calm and continue their daily activities while observing basic health precautions.

    Fresh warning from WHO

    The World Health Organisation has also raised concern, noting that COVID-19 has not been eradicated globally.

    Its coordinator in the state, Yewande Olatunde, warned that new variants are still emerging and advised Nigerians to remain vigilant.

    Background

    The development comes years after the global pandemic that disrupted economies and claimed millions of lives.

    In Nigeria, about 3,000 deaths were recorded, according to official data.

  • Reps Dump LP, APC, PDP for ADC as Defections Rock National Assembly

    At least three members of the House of Representatives have defected to the African Democratic Congress, in a fresh wave of political realignment ahead of the 2027 elections.

    The lawmakers, Thaddeus Attah (Eti-Osa, Lagos), Usman Zubairu (Birnin Gwari/Giwa, Kaduna), and Sani Noma (Argungu/Augie, Kebbi)  announced their defection during plenary on Tuesday, cutting across the Labour Party, All Progressives Congress and Peoples Democratic Party.

    Fresh wave of defections

    Their move signals a growing shift toward the ADC, as politicians continue to reposition across party lines.

    At the same time, Abubakar Buba (Chanchaga, Niger) and Ibrahim Mohammed (Bunza/Birnin Kebbi/Kalgo, Kebbi) defected from the PDP to the APC, boosting the ruling party’s numbers.

    In Osun, Mudashiru Alani (Ayedire/Iwo/Ola-Oluwa) and Adetunji Olusoji (Odo-Otin/Ifelodun/Boripe) also dumped the PDP for the Accord Party.

    Meanwhile, David Fuoh (Sarduana/Kurmi/Gashaka, Taraba) moved in the opposite direction, leaving the APC for the PDP.

    Why lawmakers are switching

    Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, who read the defection notices on the floor, said the lawmakers cited internal crises in their former parties as the main reason for their decisions.

    The justification reflects a familiar trend in Nigeria’s political space, where party instability often drives defections.

    2027 politics taking shape

    The latest movements highlight increasing political activity ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    Observers say the shifting alliances raise concerns about party discipline and ideological consistency, as lawmakers continue to switch platforms in search of political advantage.

  • Tinubu Drops Finance, Housing Ministers, Installs Oyedele, Darma in Fresh FEC Shake-Up

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved a minor cabinet reshuffle, removing two ministers and naming replacements as part of efforts to strengthen governance and economic delivery.

    What happened

    The development was confirmed in a statement issued Tuesday by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, through his media aide, Yomi Odunuga.

    According to the statement, Wale Edun, who served as Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, has been directed to hand over to Taiwo Oyedele.

    Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, Minister of Housing and Urban Development, is also to exit the cabinet.

    New appointments

    Oyedele, who previously served as Minister of State in the finance ministry, will now take over as substantive Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy.

    For the Housing Ministry, Muttaqha Rabe Darma has been named as minister-designate, pending confirmation.

    In the interim, Dangiwa is to hand over to the Minister of State in the ministry until Darma’s confirmation is completed.

    Timeline for transition

    The presidency directed that all handover processes must be concluded on or before Thursday, April 23, 2026.

    Why the reshuffle

    Akume said the changes are aimed at improving coordination within the cabinet and enhancing service delivery.

    “These changes are aimed at strengthening cohesion, synergy in governance as well as achieving more impactful delivery on the economy to Nigerians, through the Renewed Hope Agenda,” he said.

    He added that the President exercised his constitutional powers under Sections 147 and 148 of the 1999 Constitution.

    What it means

    Tinubu also thanked the outgoing ministers for their service, noting that further adjustments may follow as part of ongoing efforts to reposition the administration.

    The reshuffle signals a renewed push by the presidency to tighten control over key sectors, especially the economy, as Nigeria continues to navigate fiscal and policy challenges.

  • “I Am Alive” — Abducted UNIJOS Graduate Speaks in New Video as Kidnappers Demand ₦4m Balance

    John Arum, the abducted University of Jos graduate, has appeared in a new video confirming he is alive, dismissing earlier rumours that he had died in captivity.

    The footage, released on April 20, 2026, shows the victim speaking while his captors also addressed the situation and ongoing ransom negotiations.

    Proof of life emerges

    In the video, Arum directly counters the reports circulating online.

    “Today is April 20, 2026 and I am alive,” he said.

    He added that kidnappers initially demanded ₦10 million for his release, noting that ₦6 million has already been paid, leaving a balance of ₦4 million.

    Kidnappers issue fresh warning

    The abductors, who also spoke in the clip, warned that any delay in completing the payment could put his life at risk.

    They insisted that the remaining ransom must be paid promptly.

    Earlier fears and viral footage

    The development follows earlier viral footage that sparked widespread concern about Arum’s condition.

    Reports claiming he had died in captivity had circulated online before the latest video surfaced.

    What this means

    The latest video confirms the victim is still alive, while raising fresh urgency around the ransom demand and his possible release.

  • Blord Breaks Silence After Release, Details Sowore’s Role in Kuje Case

    Cryptocurrency entrepreneur Blord has revealed how activist Omoyele Sowore played a key role in his release from Kuje Correctional Centre, offering fresh details about their first-ever meeting amid his ongoing dispute with VeryDarkMan.

    First encounter inside detention drama

    Speaking in a short interview, Blord said he had never met or interacted with Sowore before his arrest.

    According to him, the activist stepped in after hearing about his situation, leading to his release before his scheduled court appearance.

    “When he heard I was being intimidated, he had to step in. As a matter of fact, I was supposed to be in Kuje prison till today. My bail hearing was set for 27th,” he said.

    Visit, gratitude and the ‘beret moment’

    Following his release, Blord said he visited Sowore to express appreciation for the intervention.

    During the meeting, he revealed that Sowore handed him a beret, a gesture he described as symbolic.

    “He gave me a beret. I’m among the revolution team now,” he added.

    Legal battle with VeryDarkMan

    Blord’s arrest is tied to a high-profile dispute with social media activist VeryDarkMan.

    He was remanded on April 1, 2026, over allegations of impersonation and forgery, including claims that he used the activist’s identity to promote business ventures and falsified documents linked to a ₦500 million deal.

    He was later granted bail on April 17, with conditions including the submission of his international passport.

    Case still unfolding

    The matter remains before the court, with further proceedings expected as both sides continue to press their claims.

     

  • Court Adjourns El-Rufai Bail Hearing to June as ICPC Prosecution Continues

    A Kaduna State High Court has adjourned the bail hearing of former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, to the first week of June 2026, in an ongoing trial over alleged fraud and abuse of office.

    What happened

    Justice Darius Khobo fixed the new date after El-Rufai appeared before the court last Tuesday for hearing of his bail application on an amended nine-count charge filed by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC).

    The judge had earlier scheduled ruling for April 21, 2026, but later adjourned proceedings.

    Details of the case

    El-Rufai was arraigned last week on charges bordering on fraud and abuse of office.

    His counsel, Ukpon Akpan, confirmed the adjournment after Tuesday’s proceedings, describing the delay as politically motivated.

    Earlier bail in separate case

    The former governor had earlier secured bail in a separate corruption case before a Federal High Court in Kaduna.

    Justice Rilwanu Aikawa granted him bail in the sum of ₦200 million and ordered that he remain in ICPC custody pending the fulfilment of the conditions.

    As part of the bail terms, El-Rufai was barred from making public comments on the case and must attend all court sittings.

    What it means

    The adjournment means the court will only decide on his latest bail request in June, prolonging legal proceedings in one of the high-profile corruption cases involving a former state governor.

  • NAF “Kills” Terrorists in Sambisa as Fresh Airstrike Destroys Hideouts

    The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) says it has eliminated several terrorists in a precision airstrike carried out on April 19, 2026, in the Yuwe axis of Sambisa Forest, Borno State, as part of ongoing operations against insurgents in the North-East.

    What happened

    According to a statement by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Ehimen Ejodame, the strike was executed by the Air Component of Operation HADIN KAI after credible intelligence confirmed the presence of terrorists in fortified structures and bunkers.

    He said the targets were engaged with precision munitions, leading to the destruction of the structures and the neutralisation of multiple fighters.

    Details of the operation

    Ejodame explained that the mission was supported by Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance operations, which verified terrorist activity in the area before the strike.

    “NAF air assets engaged the targets with precision munitions, destroying the structures, neutralising multiple terrorists, and eliminating key logistics facilities,” he said.

    He added that a post-strike Battle Damage Assessment confirmed the impact of the operation.

    Military speaks on ongoing operations

    The NAF noted that sustained air offensives have continued to weaken terrorist networks in the region, forcing them into more desperate actions.

    “The sustained tempo of air operations continues to degrade terrorist networks, leaving them increasingly exposed and disrupted,” Ejodame stated.

    Also speaking, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, reaffirmed the military’s commitment to intensifying operations.

    “The Nigerian Air Force will sustain relentless, intelligence-driven air operations until terrorist elements are completely neutralised,” he said.

    Background

    Sambisa Forest has remained a major stronghold for insurgent groups operating in Nigeria’s North-East for years.

    Military operations under Operation HADIN KAI have focused on dismantling these networks through coordinated ground and air offensives.

  • “My First Princess” — Otedola Celebrates Daughter Tolani at 40

    Nigerian billionaire businessman Femi Otedola has celebrated his daughter, Tolani Otedola, as she marked her 40th birthday on April 21, sharing a heartfelt message and photos to honour the milestone.

    Birthday message draws attention

    Taking to social media, Otedola described Tolani as his “first princess,” expressing pride in the woman she has become.

    “Happy Birthday to my first princess @tolani 🎂 Watching you grow into the woman you are today has been a real blessing. Proud of you even if you think you know everything now 😂 … F.Ote💲,” he wrote.

    About Tolani

    Tolani is the eldest of Otedola’s children and a singer and songwriter.

    She is also the older sister to DJ Cuppy, Temi Otedola and Fewa Otedola.

    Born on April 21, 1986, she studied Psychology at the University of St Andrews.

    Family background

    Tolani is from Otedola’s earlier relationship with Olayinka Odukoya.

    The businessman later married Nana Otedola, with whom he has three other children.

    Despite the family’s history, Tolani has maintained a close relationship with her father and remains part of the Otedola family.

    Reactions trail post

    Fans and followers flooded the comment section with birthday messages, celebrating Tolani and praising the family’s bond.

    The post has continued to generate attention online as many highlighted the relationship between father and daughter.

  • Fola Sells Out London O2 Indigo for Debut UK Show, Brings Out BNXN, Bella Shmurda, Others

    Fast-rising Nigerian singer Fola has sold out London’s O2 Indigo for his debut UK headline show, marking a major milestone in his growing career and drawing a packed crowd of fans and music lovers.

    The concert, held on April 19, 2026, saw the singer deliver an energetic performance as attendees sang along to his songs throughout the night.

    Electric night in London

    From the moment he stepped on stage, Fola kept the crowd engaged with a mix of his popular tracks and fan favourites.

    The event attracted members of the Nigerian diaspora and Afrobeats fans, highlighting his expanding international appeal.

    Star-studded appearances

    The performance gained extra momentum when Fola brought out guest artists including Bella Shmurda, BNXN, Shoday, Magixx and Blaqbonez.

    Their appearances further lifted the atmosphere, turning the concert into a collaborative showcase of Nigerian music talent.

    Fans react

    Videos from the show quickly spread across social media, with many attendees praising the singer’s stage presence and connection with the audience.

    Several fans described the concert as one of the most exciting live shows they had attended.

    Rising global profile

    The sold-out show reflects the growing global demand for Afrobeats and signals Fola’s transition from an emerging act to a rising international performer.

    Industry watchers say the achievement places him among a new wave of Nigerian artists gaining recognition beyond the country.

  • Angry Plateau Residents Attack Soldiers, Burn Military Checkpoint After Burial of Slain Villager

    Tension escalated in Plateau State as angry residents of Kassa community in Barkin Ladi Local Government Area attacked soldiers and set a military checkpoint ablaze following the burial of a resident reportedly killed by gunmen.

    Mob storms checkpoint after burial

    The incident occurred late Sunday night at Rapung Kassa, where a crowd of youths and women stormed a military checkpoint, destroying structures and equipment used by troops stationed in the area.

    The protest was triggered by the burial of Gyang Nuhu Choji, who was reportedly killed on April 16 by suspected armed attackers.

    Residents accused security operatives of failing to prevent repeated attacks, insisting that the presence of troops had not translated into adequate protection.

    Roads blocked, movement disrupted

    During the protest, the mob blocked access roads, disrupting movement in and out of the community.

    The situation was later brought under control after intervention by local leaders and security officials, who assured residents of renewed efforts to address insecurity.

    Security sources confirmed that no casualties were recorded during the attack, while patrol and surveillance operations have since been intensified.

    Rising violence in Barkin Ladi axis

    The latest unrest comes amid a pattern of violent incidents across Barkin Ladi and neighbouring areas involving armed groups, bandits, and local militias.

    Recent operations by security forces included raids on suspected camps, recovery of rustled cattle, and arrests of individuals linked to violent attacks.

    Troops also intercepted suspected militia members and recovered weapons, motorcycles, and ammunition in separate operations within the area.

    Clashes, arrests and reprisals

    Security reports indicate ongoing clashes between troops and armed groups, including a recent gun battle in which several attackers were killed.

    Authorities also confirmed arrests of suspected militia members linked to targeted killings, alongside incidents of cattle rustling and alleged poisoning of livestock in nearby communities.

    The developments highlight growing tensions in the region, with repeated attacks and reprisals raising fresh concerns over security in Plateau communities.