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  • TikToker Kesari Okala Sparks Outrage After Threatening Voters Over APC Support

    Controversial Lagos-based TikToker, Kesari Okala, has come under fire after a viral video showed him issuing threats to Nigerians over their voting choices ahead of future elections.

    What he said in the video

    In the clip circulating online, Kesari warned that anyone who refuses to vote for the All Progressives Congress (APC) could face physical consequences.

    He also made a controversial claim suggesting that President Bola Tinubu could remain in office beyond the constitutionally allowed two terms.

    “If you don’t vote for APC I will beat the hell out of you. Tinubu will be the first President to go for three terms in Nigeria. If you don’t agree I will beat you up,” he said in a mix of Yoruba and English.

    Public reactions pour in

    The video has since triggered widespread reactions across social media, with many Nigerians condemning the use of threats and intimidation in political discourse.

    Some users dismissed his comments, while others criticised what they described as the growing trend of influencers promoting divisive narratives online.

    @loafplug wrote, “How many people can he beat? He should go and sit down. Nobody is scared of him. That money they paid him will soon finish.”

    @Melv_1017 added, “Who be this one? Una go just dey give these people unnecessary relevance.”

    @folatheicon commented, “Anything for the bag.”

    @attah_akor stated, “Of course he go dey support APC.”

    Growing concerns over political intimidation

    The development has raised fresh concerns about the tone of political engagement in Nigeria, especially on social media platforms where such statements can quickly gain traction.

    Many have called on authorities to address threats linked to electoral choices and ensure a safe and fair democratic process.

  • FG Moves Credential Verification Online, Ends Physical Visits Nationwide

    The Federal Government has fully digitised the authentication and evaluation of academic credentials, directing all applicants to process requests online as part of efforts to improve transparency and service delivery in Nigeria’s education sector.

    How the new system works

    In a statement dated April 15, 2026, the Federal Ministry of Education said all applications will now be handled strictly through its official verification portal.

    Applicants are required to register and upload relevant documents via the platform, while academic transcripts must be sent directly by institutions through official email channels for verification.

    End of physical verification

    The ministry made it clear that applicants no longer need to visit its offices for physical verification, as the entire process has been automated.

    Officials say the shift is designed to simplify procedures, reduce delays, and improve data integrity across the system.

    Why the change was introduced

    According to the ministry, the move aligns with the Federal Government’s broader digital transformation agenda and aims to enhance efficiency, ensure data accuracy, and support evidence-based decision-making in the education sector.

    What applicants should know

    Applicants have been advised to strictly follow the new guidelines to avoid delays in processing.

    The ministry also provided official communication channels for enquiries, stressing the need for compliance to ensure smooth and timely verification.

    What it means going forward

    Authorities say the transition to a fully digital platform is expected to strengthen the credibility of academic credential verification in Nigeria, while reducing bottlenecks that previously affected the process.

    Screenshot

  • Messi Takes Over UE Cornellà After Shock 100% Ownership Deal

    Football icon Lionel Messi has reportedly taken full ownership of Spanish lower-division side UE Cornellà, marking a major move into club management beyond his playing career.

    Deal details emerge

    The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner is said to have acquired 100 percent of the Catalonia-based club, which currently competes in Spain’s third-tier structure, according to reports circulating on Thursday.

    UE Cornellà, founded in 1951, has built a reputation for developing young talent and operates from the Nou Municipal de Cornellà stadium.

    Why the move matters

    The acquisition signals Messi’s growing interest in football business and long-term investment in talent development, especially following his recent involvement in youth football initiatives in Miami.

    Sources indicate the project will focus on sustainability, youth development, and expanding the club’s global profile.

    Club profile and history

    Despite playing in the lower divisions, Cornellà has produced notable players who have gone on to feature in top European leagues.

    The club also gained attention in recent years for strong performances in Spain’s domestic cup competitions, often challenging bigger teams.

    Online buzz and reactions

    The development quickly gained traction online after football transfer expert Fabrizio Romano posted a “breaking” update confirming the deal.

    Fans have since reacted with excitement, with many seeing the move as a strategic step similar to investments made by other football legends in club ownership.

    What comes next

    While full official documentation is yet to be released publicly, early indications suggest administrative and structural changes could begin ahead of the new season.

    For Messi, the move represents a shift from just playing the game to shaping its future from the boardroom.

  • Top 10 Players Leading Ballon d’Or 2026 Race After Champions League Last Eight

    The race for the 2026 Ballon d’Or is beginning to take shape after the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals, with Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane pulling ahead as early favourite following a string of decisive performances in Europe and a dominant goal-scoring run this season.

    Kane’s form has put him in front of a competitive field that includes rising stars and established names, all pushing their case as the season approaches its defining stretch.

    Harry Kane leads the race

    The England captain has been ruthless in front of goal, leading Bayern Munich past Real Madrid in the quarter-finals.

    He also tops the scoring charts across Europe’s major leagues with 35 goals, giving him a clear edge.

    Lamine Yamal’s breakout season continues

    Barcelona’s teenage sensation keeps delivering at the highest level.

    At just 18, he is driving the club’s La Liga title push, with a strong lead over Real Madrid.

    Mbappé remains a major threat

    Kylian Mbappé is still right in the mix.

    He has scored 25 league goals and leads the Champions League scoring chart with 15, underlining his influence in big games.

    Michael Olise’s rise gathers pace

    Olise has enjoyed a standout season, combining flair with consistent output.

    His goals and assists have pushed him into elite conversation.

    Dembélé finds consistency again

    Ousmane Dembélé is showing a different level of reliability this season.

    He has stepped up in key European fixtures with match-winning performances.

    Declan Rice anchors from midfield

    Rice continues to dominate in midfield with authority.

    His defensive work, leadership, and ability to contribute going forward remain crucial.

    Vitinha quietly controls games

    Vitinha has built his case through consistency.

    His composure and control in midfield continue to stand out.

    Haaland still dangerous

    Erling Haaland remains one of the most feared strikers in Europe.

    Despite a lower ranking, his goal-scoring record keeps him firmly in contention.

    Álvarez delivers when it matters

    Julián Álvarez continues to prove his value in big moments.

    His energy and finishing make him a reliable option in crucial games.

    Bellingham stays in the conversation

    Jude Bellingham remains one of the most complete young midfielders in the game.

    His goals, assists, and presence on the pitch keep him firmly in the race.

  • Tinubu Mocks Atiku, Calls Opposition Coalition a “Gang-Up of Failures” Ahead of 2027 Poll

    President Bola Tinubu has taken a swipe at former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, describing the opposition coalition seeking to unseat him in the 2027 general election as a “coalition of failures,” during a political engagement at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

    What happened

    Tinubu made the remarks on Thursday, April 16, 2026, while addressing the leadership and coordinators of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors.

    The president accused opposition figures, including Atiku, of ganging up against his administration, while questioning their past records in governance and economic reforms.

    He specifically referenced Atiku’s role in Nigeria’s privatisation programme, suggesting it contributed to failed national assets.

    Tinubu’s criticism of Atiku

    In his speech, Tinubu mocked the opposition’s track record, pointing to stalled projects such as Ajaokuta Steel Company and other privatised assets.

    “The head was the chairman of the Privatisation Council of Nigeria… they privatised the steel industry in Delta. Is it working today? No,” he said.

    He added that Nigerians should judge political actors based on results rather than promises, insisting his administration is focused on correcting past failures.

    Defence of his administration

    The president maintained that he inherited a struggling economy but chose to confront the challenges head-on.

    “I didn’t have to look back because the truth is, I took over from myself,” Tinubu said, referencing his role in the transition from former President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration.

    He assured supporters that ongoing reforms would eventually deliver visible results in infrastructure, education, and the economy.

    Message to supporters

    Tinubu also praised members of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, describing them as part of a national movement committed to economic recovery and social renewal.

    He urged them to remain committed to his administration’s agenda, promising not to abandon them midway.

    “You are in good company… all I can promise is that I won’t give up,” he said.

    What it means

    The comments reflect rising political tensions ahead of the 2027 elections, with early campaigns and rivalries beginning to shape public discourse around governance and opposition unity.

  • Saudi PIF Sells 70% of Al-Hilal to Kingdom Holding in $373m Deal

    Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) has signed a binding agreement to sell its 70 per cent stake in Al-Hilal Saudi Club to Kingdom Holding Company, marking a major shift in the ownership structure of one of Asia’s most successful football teams.

    Deal details emerge

    The transaction, reported by the Saudi Press Agency, values the Riyadh-based club at about 1.4 billion Saudi riyals.

    Kingdom Holding, chaired by billionaire Prince Alwaleed bin Talal, will pay 840 million riyals to acquire the controlling stake, with funding sourced internally.

    The remaining 30 per cent stake is expected to be held by the Al-Hilal Non-Profit Foundation.

    Shift in Saudi sports model

    The deal makes Al-Hilal the first of Saudi Arabia’s “Big Four” clubs to move from state-backed ownership under PIF to private sector control.

    Analysts say the move aligns with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 strategy aimed at reducing government ownership and expanding private investment in the sports sector.

    Prince Alwaleed speaks

    Prince Alwaleed, a longtime supporter and honorary member of the club, said the acquisition is focused on unlocking commercial opportunities while preserving the club’s legacy.

    He noted that Al-Hilal’s identity and history remain central to the new ownership direction.

    What happens next

    The deal is still subject to regulatory approval from the General Authority for Competition.

    However, preparations for administrative and commercial transition are expected to begin immediately ahead of the new football season.

    What it means

    Industry watchers say the move could set the tone for similar ownership changes involving other top Saudi clubs like Al-Nassr, Al-Ittihad, and Al-Ahli, which are still under PIF control.

  • Bandits Abduct JAMB Candidates, Other Passengers in Benue Night Attack

    Gunmen suspected to be bandits have abducted several passengers, including candidates heading for the ongoing JAMB examination, after attacking a Benue Links bus along the Makurdi-Otukpo road in Benue State.

    Attack on night journey

    The incident occurred on Wednesday night when the bus, travelling from Makurdi to Otukpo, was ambushed near its destination.

    Passengers on board were reportedly young men and women heading to sit for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination scheduled for Thursday.

    A source said the vehicle, carrying about 18 passengers, was waylaid around 8pm, with most occupants taken into the bush.

    “Two people, the driver and one passenger, managed to escape. Incidentally, the passengers were mainly young men and women going to write JAMB,” the source said.

    Police confirm abduction

    The Benue State Commissioner of Police, Ifeanyi Emenari, confirmed the attack, stating that 14 passengers were abducted while one victim escaped.

    He said security operatives had launched a rescue operation and were already combing the area.

    “I am in Otukpo now with my team, heading the operation. Fourteen passengers were kidnapped, and one escaped,” he said.

    Investigation underway

    The police also revealed that the journey may have violated transport regulations, noting that Benue Links has a policy against night travel.

    According to the commissioner, the driver allegedly picked up passengers after official hours, a development now under investigation.

    “But as we are investigating, we are on the ground to make sure that the victims are rescued,” he added.

    Local authorities react

    Chairman of Otukpo Local Government Area, Maxwell Ogiri, confirmed the attack and said security operatives had been deployed into nearby forests.

    “The victims are mainly young boys and girls coming to Otukpo to write JAMB,” he said.

    Rising insecurity on route

    The Makurdi-Otukpo road has witnessed repeated attacks in recent months, raising concerns among travellers and residents over growing insecurity in the area.

    The latest incident adds to fears around the safety of commuters, especially students travelling for national examinations.

  • Tinubu Declares 2027 Bid, Says “I Can’t Be Intimidated” by Opposition

    President Bola Tinubu has declared his intention to contest the 2027 presidential election, signalling readiness to seek a second term in office amid rising political tension and opposition criticism.

    President speaks on 2027 ambition

    The president made the declaration on Thursday during a meeting with the leadership and coordinators of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

    He said his goal is to tackle poverty, promote freedom, and strengthen Nigeria’s democratic system.

    Tinubu also insisted that he remains committed to upholding the rule of law and respecting the independence of the judiciary, even when decisions do not favour his administration.

    Takes swipe at opposition

    In his remarks, the president criticised opposition parties, describing their approach as lacking substance.

    He said he intends to offer Nigerians something different from what he called “rascality” and “noise-making.”

    Tinubu added that he is not threatened by political pressure or criticism from rival camps.

    “They want to scare me off? It’s a lie. I have been through this path before, and if I have to come back over and over again, I will do the same thing,” he said.

    Stance on political pressure

    The president maintained that his experience in Nigeria’s political landscape has prepared him for any challenge ahead of the next election cycle.

    He stressed that attempts to intimidate him would not succeed, noting that he understands the dynamics of opposition politics.

    What it means

    Tinubu’s declaration sets the stage for early political positioning ahead of 2027, as parties and key actors begin to align and test public sentiment.

  • APC Member Sparks Debate, Says “Tinubu Won’t Win” in Free and Fair Election

    An alleged member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has sparked fresh political debate after openly criticising the state of the country and questioning President Bola Tinubu’s chances in a free and fair election.

    What he said

    In a now-viral video, the party member expressed doubts about the current administration’s popularity, insisting that the outcome would be different under a credible electoral process.

    “I’m an APC member, but I tell you people that if we put election on ground, free and fair for people to vote their hearts, the answer is Tinubu won’t win,” he said.

    He also questioned claims linking Nigeria’s economic hardship to global conflicts.

    “How do we explain that a war going on in Iran is why people are hungry in Nigeria?” he added.

    Concerns over governance

    The comments come at a time when many Nigerians are grappling with rising cost of living and economic pressure.

    The speaker argued that explanations tied to international crises do not fully address the realities faced by citizens.

    Allegations within APC

    The APC member further alleged that some elements within the ruling party are undermining opposition parties.

    “Some elements in APC are stopping opposition parties from existing; it is a bad thing,” he said.

    He warned that weakening opposition voices could harm democratic growth and accountability.

    Wider reactions

    The statement has triggered reactions online, with Nigerians weighing in on governance, economic hardship, and the country’s political direction ahead of future elections.

    Debates have continued over the role of opposition parties and the need for a more competitive political environment.

  • MTN Suspends Xtratime Service Over New FCCPC Lending Rules

    MTN Nigeria has suspended its airtime and data advance service, Xtratime, following new regulatory requirements introduced by the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) targeting digital lending operations.

    Why MTN took action

    The telecom giant disclosed the decision in a filing to the Nigerian Exchange on Thursday, stating that the move is to comply with the FCCPC’s Digital, Electronic, Online or Non-Traditional Consumer Lending Regulations, 2025.

    According to the company, the Xtratime service falls within the scope of the new rules, which now require providers of such services to obtain fresh licensing and meet stricter compliance standards.

    “MTN Nigeria Communications PLC hereby notifies… that the company has temporarily suspended its airtime and data credit advance service (‘Xtratime’),” the statement read.

    What the service does

    Xtratime allows prepaid subscribers to borrow airtime or data and repay on their next recharge, making it a widely used option for customers facing short-term credit needs.

    However, the FCCPC’s updated framework now classifies such offerings as digital credit services subject to tighter oversight.

    Impact on customers and revenue

    MTN said customers can still purchase airtime and data through other available channels despite the suspension.

    The company also downplayed the financial impact of the move, noting that the service does not significantly affect its overall revenue.

    “Given the scale within the revenue mix, we do not expect the temporary suspension to have a material impact,” MTN stated.

    It added that customer usage patterns are being monitored, with further updates expected in its Q1 2026 results.

    Regulatory push on digital lending

    The FCCPC’s 2025 regulations expand oversight of digital lending to include telecom operators and other providers of short-term credit.

    Under the framework, companies offering airtime and data advances must register and obtain approval to continue operations.

    The commission had earlier introduced a similar framework in 2022 but expanded it with stricter rules in 2025.

    What it means

    The development signals increased scrutiny of Nigeria’s fast-growing digital credit sector, as regulators move to address concerns around consumer debt, data privacy, and lending practices.