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Author: Promise Odejide

  • NBC Warns Broadcasters Over ‘Bias, Intimidation’ Ahead of 2027 Elections

    The National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) has issued a strong warning to Nigerian broadcasters, cautioning that unethical conduct by presenters and anchors will attract sanctions as the country approaches the 2027 general elections.

    The commission raised concerns over what it described as a growing pattern of violations of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code across news and political programmes.

    What happened

    In a statement released on Friday, the NBC said it has observed a steady increase in breaches of the sixth edition of the Nigeria Broadcasting Code.

    According to the commission, broadcast platforms are increasingly being used in ways that fall short of their core responsibility to provide accurate, balanced, and professional information to the public.

    Concerns over presenters’ conduct

    The NBC noted that some presenters and anchors now compromise neutrality by expressing personal opinions as facts and denying guests fair hearing during discussions.

    It warned that such actions violate established broadcasting standards, which require impartiality and balanced representation of all sides on issues of public interest.

    “Henceforth, any anchor or presenter found to have expressed personal opinion as fact, bullied or intimidated a guest, denied fair hearing to opposing views, or otherwise compromised neutrality, shall be deemed to have committed a Class B breach,” the commission stated.

    Political content under scrutiny

    The commission also expressed concern over the use of broadcast platforms by political actors to spread divisive and unverified claims.

    It stressed that broadcasters remain fully responsible for all content aired, including live programmes, and cannot shift that responsibility to guests.

    Sanctions and warning

    The NBC reiterated its commitment to enforcing strict compliance with the broadcasting code, warning that violations involving hate speech, incitement, and lack of balance will attract penalties.

    It urged media organisations to maintain professionalism and ensure that the airwaves are not used to spread misinformation as Nigeria moves closer to another election cycle.

  • ISWAP Blocks Maiduguri–Damaturu Highway After Deadly Jilli Airstrike Sparks Controversy

    Suspected ISWAP terrorists have blocked the Maiduguri–Damaturu highway following a recent military airstrike on Jilli market, in what security sources describe as a retaliatory move after the operation disrupted insurgent activities in the area.

    The blockade reportedly occurred days after the air operation along the Borno–Yobe border, intensifying concerns over security and civilian safety in the region.

    What happened

    According to security sources, the insurgents moved onto the highway and halted movement shortly after the strike on Jilli market.

    A counter-terrorism expert, identified as @mobilisingniger on X, shared a video showing the development, describing it as a show of defiance by the group.

    “After the airstrike in Jilli market, they started acting aggressively. Today, they blocked the road and stopped movement,” he said.

    Airstrike and casualty controversy

    Last Saturday, the Nigerian military carried out an airstrike on Jilli market during peak trading hours, with reports indicating that at least 56 people were feared dead and 14 others injured.

    The strike was believed to be targeting Boko Haram insurgents and their collaborators, but multiple sources claimed the intended targets were missed, raising concerns about civilian casualties.

    Jilli market, located between Gubio and Geidam Local Government Areas, is known to attract traders from surrounding communities across Borno and Yobe states.

    Government defends operation

    Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum, however, insisted that Jilli market had been officially shut down five years ago due to its links to insurgent logistics.

    He described the location as a long-standing hub for terrorist activities, stating that its closure was part of efforts to disrupt supply chains used by armed groups.

    Similarly, the Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, defended the airstrike, rejecting claims that civilians were killed.

    He maintained that the operation was a deliberate move to dismantle a key support base for insurgents rather than a tragic error.

    Rising tension in the region

    The highway blockade has heightened fears among residents and travellers, as the Maiduguri–Damaturu road remains a critical route linking parts of the North-East.

    The development adds to ongoing security challenges in the region, with authorities under pressure to contain insurgent threats and protect civilian lives.

  • “Only the Rich Get This Kind of Bail” — Lawyer Breaks Down BLord’s ‘Self-Recognizance’ Release

    A Nigerian lawyer has stirred reactions online after explaining the meaning of “self-recognizance bail,” following reports that cryptocurrency entrepreneur Linus Williams, popularly known as BLord, was granted bail under the condition.

    The explanation comes amid widespread curiosity over the court’s decision to release BLord without the usual requirement of a surety.

    What happened

    BLord was recently granted bail on self-recognizance, a legal provision that allows a defendant to be released based on personal credibility rather than financial guarantees or third-party sureties.

    The development left many Nigerians confused, prompting the lawyer to offer a simplified breakdown in a now-viral video.

    What ‘self-recognizance bail’ means

    According to the lawyer, self-recognizance bail is based on trust. The court relies on the defendant’s status, reputation, and perceived responsibility to ensure they will appear for trial.

    He explained that unlike regular bail, where a surety is required to stand in for the accused, self-recognizance places that responsibility directly on the individual.

    “Self-recognizance is now: ‘We know you… you have businesses, you cannot leave them and run away… you are enough surety for yourself,’” he said.

    Comparison with regular bail system

    The lawyer noted that individuals without strong financial or social standing often face stricter bail conditions.

    He said courts typically require such defendants to present sureties because they are seen as more likely to abscond.

    “Because you’re poor, they don’t usually trust you… but in this case, the court believes you will show up,” he added.

    Reactions trail explanation

    The video has triggered mixed reactions, with some Nigerians agreeing with the explanation while others criticised what they see as inequality in the justice system.

    Many argued that wealth and social status appear to influence how bail conditions are applied in high-profile cases.

  • Iran Tightens Grip On Strait Of Hormuz Amid Standoff With US Over Port Blockade

    Iran’s elite military force, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, has announced renewed control over the Strait of Hormuz, escalating tensions with the United States amid an ongoing dispute over port blockades.

    The development comes despite earlier signals of a partial reopening, creating fresh uncertainty around one of the world’s most critical oil shipping routes.

    What happened

    Iranian state media reported on Saturday that control of the Strait of Hormuz had “returned to its previous state,” with the Revolutionary Guard insisting it would determine which vessels are allowed to pass.

    This follows conflicting messages from Iranian officials, after the country’s foreign minister had earlier indicated that the strait would remain open to commercial shipping during a ceasefire window.

    US position remains firm

    US President Donald Trump said the naval blockade on Iranian ports would continue until negotiations between both countries are fully concluded.

    He maintained that the strait was “open and ready for business,” but made it clear that pressure on Iran would not ease until a final agreement is reached.

    Conflicting signals from Iran

    The situation has exposed apparent divisions within Iran’s leadership, with the government signalling openness while the military adopts a more assertive stance.

    The Revolutionary Guard’s position suggests tighter control over maritime access, raising concerns about potential disruptions to global oil supply.

    Talks and regional tensions

    Trump downplayed differences between both countries, expressing optimism about a possible deal, including cooperation on Iran’s enriched uranium programme, a claim Tehran has rejected.

    He also indicated that fresh talks could take place soon, with reports suggesting a possible meeting in Pakistan, although Iranian officials have cast doubt on the likelihood of progress.

    Meanwhile, developments in Lebanon appear to have stabilised, with Trump stating that Israel would halt further strikes, a condition previously linked to Iran’s willingness to re-engage in negotiations.

  • Top 10 Nollywood Movies to Watch Over the Weekend

    Looking for something fresh to stream this weekend? Nollywood is not slowing down, and YouTube is currently packed with trending releases that blend romance, drama, and everyday human struggles. Some of these stories feel light and easy, others hit a bit deeper, but together they offer enough range to carry you through a full weekend binge without feeling repetitive.

    1. Two Stubborn Hearts

    This one thrives on tension and chemistry. Two strong personalities collide, argue, resist… and then something slowly shifts. It’s funny in parts, but also grounded enough to keep things believable.

    2. Touching Heart

    An emotional story that leans into sacrifice and forgiveness. It takes its time, which actually works in its favour. By the end, you’re not just watching, you’re feeling it.

    3. Baby Fever

    This hits close to real life. A couple dealing with fertility struggles, pressure, and emotional fatigue. It’s quiet in some moments, but that silence carries weight.

    4. Plus One

     

    Starts off playful, then gradually pulls you into deeper relationship drama. There are twists, some predictable, some not so much. Easy watch, but not empty.

    5. What Love Leaves Behind

    A story about trust breaking in slow motion. Friendship, betrayal, love… everything overlaps here. The performances do a lot of the heavy lifting.

    6. Love in Ruins

    More intense, more emotional. It deals with broken relationships and the long road back, if there’s even a road back at all. There’s a steady build that keeps you hooked.

    7. Can’t See You

     

    A palace setting, a blind prince, and a nurse caught in something deeper than duty. It’s soft, emotional, and a bit different from the usual urban love stories.

    8. The Billionaire’s Daughter

     

    Classic Nollywood formula, but still works. Wealth, secrets, complicated love. You kind of know where it’s going, but you still watch it play out.

    9. The Anchor

     

    More reflective than most on this list. It leans into purpose, destiny, and holding on when life feels uncertain. Not overly dramatic, but it sticks.

    10. Heaven Sent

     

    Simple, soft, and easy to digest. A love story that feels almost too smooth, but sometimes that’s exactly what you want after a long week.

     

    Why these movies are trending

    Most of these films run between one and two hours and are available for free on YouTube, which continues to shape how Nollywood reaches its audience. The accessibility, combined with relatable storytelling, is driving their popularity, especially among younger viewers who prefer on-demand content.

  • Pastor Olumide Emmanuel Fires Back Over Church School Fees Criticism

    Popular cleric, Olumide Emmanuel, has responded to criticism over churches using offerings to establish schools that many members allegedly cannot afford, insisting such arguments ignore the realities of running large institutions.

    Speaking in a recent statement, the pastor defended religious organisations, arguing that several churches have built infrastructure that governments have failed to provide over the years.

    What he said

    Emmanuel dismissed the criticism in strong terms, stating that church-led developments often outperform public sector efforts.

    “Many of these pastors and churches that you are speaking against, what they are doing, your presidents and your governors have never done it,” he said.

    He referenced church-owned communities such as Redemption Camp and Canaanland, noting that they enjoy stable electricity and better infrastructure compared to many parts of the country.

    Why church schools charge high fees

    The cleric explained that once church funds are used to establish a school, the institution becomes financially independent and must sustain itself like a business.

    “When we carry church money to start a school, once we release that money into the school, the school becomes an entity,” he said.

    According to him, such schools must generate revenue to pay staff salaries and maintain operations, rather than relying continuously on church offerings.

    Ongoing debate

    The comments come amid growing public debate on the accessibility of church-owned universities, a conversation recently reignited by Omoyele Sowore, who criticised the high cost of tuition in some institutions.

    Emmanuel maintained that without financial sustainability, such schools would struggle to survive, insisting that the model is necessary for long-term operations.

  • Sowore Accuses MTN Of “Data Theft”, Sparks Fresh Outrage Among Subscribers

    Human rights activist Omoyele Sowore has accused telecom giant MTN Nigeria of exploiting customers through what he described as rapid and unexplained data depletion.

    His comments, which surfaced in a viral video earlier this week, have triggered widespread reactions from subscribers who say they face similar experiences with mobile data usage.

    What Sowore said

    Sowore alleged that many Nigerians are being unfairly charged for data that does not last as expected, describing the situation in strong terms.

    “You’ll buy ₦5,000 worth of data and by the time you wake up, it would have disappeared. MTN is looting your data,” he said.

    He called for urgent scrutiny of telecom operators, insisting that consumers deserve transparency and accountability.

    Subscribers echo concerns

    The claims have reignited long-standing complaints among users who argue that data bundles often deplete faster than anticipated.

    Many subscribers have taken to social media to share similar frustrations, demanding clearer billing systems and better regulation of the telecom sector.

    Calls for regulation

    Sowore stressed that regulators must step in to address what he described as exploitation, noting that Nigerians are spending hard-earned money on services they do not fully understand.

    Analysts say the controversy highlights ongoing concerns around consumer protection, pricing transparency, and service accountability in Nigeria’s telecom industry.

    MTN Nigeria has yet to issue an official response to the allegations as of the time of filing this report.

  • Bandits Abduct Kwara Monarch, Wife In Midnight Palace Attack

    Suspected bandits have abducted a traditional ruler, his wife, and another individual after attacking a palace in Olayinka community, Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State in the early hours of Saturday.

    The gunmen reportedly stormed the palace around 1:40am, firing sporadically before whisking the monarch away to an unknown destination, in what residents described as a terrifying overnight raid.

    How the attack happened

    Sources said the attackers arrived heavily armed and met little resistance as panic spread across the palace.

    “They came around 1:40am and started shooting. Everyone was scared. They took the monarch, his wife, and another person,” a source disclosed.

    The abducted monarch was said to have been recently installed by the state government, making the incident even more shocking within the community.

    Rising concern in Kwara South

    The latest abduction marks the third case involving a traditional ruler in Kwara South within a year, raising fresh concerns about security in the area.

    In 2025, two monarchs in the region were kidnapped by suspected bandits and later released after ransom payments were reportedly made.

    Residents say the repeated attacks have heightened fear, with calls growing for stronger security presence across affected communities.

  • ADC Slams Tinubu Over ‘Street Convention’ Remark, Says Nigerians Face Hardship

    The African Democratic Congress has criticised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, accusing him of focusing on political attacks while Nigerians grapple with worsening economic and security challenges.

    In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the party described the President’s recent comments about opposition groups as inappropriate and disconnected from the realities faced by citizens.

    What triggered the reaction

    The ADC’s response followed remarks attributed to Tinubu, where he reportedly dismissed opposition parties and mocked their convention as being held “on the street.”

    The party rejected the claim, insisting its convention was not conducted in such a manner and suggesting the statement may have been based on misinformation.

    Concerns over economy and insecurity

    ADC said the focus should instead be on urgent national issues, including rising cost of living, food inflation, and declining purchasing power.

    It also raised concerns over insecurity across the country, citing ongoing cases of abductions and attacks, while alleging that the government’s response has not been sufficient.

    Allegations of shrinking political space

    The party further claimed that democratic space is narrowing under the current administration, accusing authorities of restricting opposition access to public venues such as Eagle Square.

    According to the statement, such actions could undermine political participation and weaken democratic processes.

    “At a time when families are battling a historic cost-of-living crisis, the President chose to mock the opposition instead of addressing the suffering of Nigerians,” the party said.

    It also criticised what it described as contradictions in governance, arguing that the President cannot simultaneously act as political leader and interpreter of legal matters.

  • JAMB Releases 632,788 UTME Results Hours After Exam, Warns Against Score Manipulation

    The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board has released the results of 632,788 candidates who sat for the first day of the 2026 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination, with scores made available less than 24 hours after the test.

    The board announced on Friday night that candidates who wrote the exam on Thursday, April 16, can now check their results, marking one of the fastest releases in its history.

    How to check results

    According to JAMB’s spokesperson, Fabian Benjamin, candidates are required to send “UTMERESULT” via SMS to 55019 or 66019 using the same phone number used during registration.

    He clarified that only score viewing is currently available, adding that printing of result slips would be enabled later.

    “At this stage, candidates may view their results only; printing is not yet available,” the statement noted.

    Warning over malpractice

    JAMB also issued a strong warning against result falsification, stressing that manipulating scores or altering official messages is a criminal offence.

    The board disclosed that two candidates and one parent have already been arrested for allegedly using artificial intelligence and other digital tools to falsify UTME results.

    Benjamin warned that offenders would face prosecution, adding that any candidate found guilty of examination malpractice would be dealt with according to the law.

    More results expected

    The 2026 UTME, which began on April 16, is scheduled to run until April 22 across centres nationwide.

    JAMB said additional results would be released in batches as the examination progresses.