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  • VeryDarkMan Pushes PVC Registration, Calls for Greater Voter Participation

    Social media critic Martins Vincent Otse has called on Nigerians to take future elections more seriously, urging citizens to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and actively participate in the democratic process.

    Speaking in a video shared online, the activist argued that elected officials should be removed through the ballot box if they fail to meet public expectations.

    Call for Greater Voter Participation

    VeryDarkMan said voting remains one of the strongest tools available to citizens seeking change and accountability in governance.

    According to him, politicians would become more responsible if they understood that voters were prepared to replace them when they failed to deliver.

    “If we can vote President Tinubu out of power, Nigeria will improve by at least 70%. It would send a message that whoever we elect can be removed if they fail to perform,” he said.

    Criticism of Low Voter Registration

    The activist also expressed concern over what he described as low voter participation among Nigerians, particularly those who frequently discuss political issues on social media.

    He urged citizens to begin encouraging others to register and obtain their PVCs ahead of future elections.

    “That alone will make anyone seeking power understand that they must deliver and do the right thing. Everybody should start preaching to everyone to get their voter card, the time is now. Eighty percent of people that talk on social media don’t even have PVC,” he added.

    Debate Over Governance and Accountability

    His comments come amid ongoing national conversations about insecurity, economic challenges and public accountability.

    While some Nigerians have supported his call for increased voter participation, others have debated his assessment of the current administration and the role elections play in addressing governance concerns.

    VeryDarkMan has consistently encouraged greater civic engagement, maintaining that meaningful political change can only be achieved when citizens actively participate in the electoral process.

  • US Plans Major Visa Processing Shake-Up Across Africa

    The United States is planning a major restructuring of its visa-processing operations across Africa, with reports indicating that the number of embassies and consulates handling visa applications could be reduced from nearly 50 to just 20 locations.

    The proposed move, approved by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, is expected to affect visa services across the continent in the coming weeks.

    20 African Cities Selected as Visa Hubs

    According to reports citing US officials and an internal memo, the decision was communicated to American diplomats and consular chiefs during a conference call held on May 29.

    Under the proposed arrangement, visa-processing services will be concentrated in 20 designated hubs across Africa.

    The selected locations include Lagos, Accra, Nairobi, Addis Ababa, Dakar, Kampala, Kigali, Kinshasa, Lomé and Yaoundé, among others.

    Other approved centres include Abidjan, Cape Town, Johannesburg, Dar es Salaam, Djibouti, Luanda, Malabo, Monrovia, Port Louis and Praia.

    Implementation Date Yet to Be Confirmed

    Although the restructuring plan has reportedly received approval, US authorities have not officially announced when the changes will take effect.

    The proposal is expected to reshape visa application procedures for travellers across several African countries, particularly in locations that may lose direct visa-processing services.

    Part of Wider Diplomatic Changes

    The reported decision comes months after the administration of US President Donald Trump reportedly recalled ambassadors from more than two dozen countries, with African nations among the most affected.

    Observers say the latest development could further alter the US diplomatic footprint across the continent, particularly in the area of consular services and visa administration.

  • RCCG Debunks Claims Linking Adeboye to Protest Against Jonathan

    The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) has refuted claims circulating on social media that its General Overseer, Enoch Adeboye, led a protest against the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan.

    In a statement released by RCCG Public Relations, the church described the claim as false and said a photograph being used to support the narrative had been taken out of context.

    RCCG Explains Viral Photograph

    According to the church, the image showing Pastor Adeboye holding a placard was taken during a peaceful nationwide walk organised in response to a directive from the Christian Association of Nigeria during the administration of late former President Muhammadu Buhari.

    The statement explained that churches across the country participated in the exercise to draw attention to the killing of Christians and urge the government to improve security.

    “The walk in Ebute Metta, where Pastor Adeboye participated, was part of that nationwide exercise. It was neither organised against President Goodluck Jonathan nor connected in any way to his administration,” the statement said.

    Church Rejects Political Interpretation

    RCCG said the photographs from the event have been repeatedly recycled and falsely presented as evidence of a protest against Jonathan’s government.

    The church stressed that Pastor Adeboye’s message during the walk focused on the value of human life and the need to protect innocent Nigerians regardless of religious background.

    “It is important to note that Pastor Adeboye’s message during the walk was clear: all lives matter to God. His placard emphasised the value of every human life, regardless of religious affiliation,” the statement added.

    Adeboye Has Spoken on Insecurity, RCCG Says

    The church also responded to criticisms that Pastor Adeboye has remained silent on the country’s challenges.

    It recalled that during the November 2025 Holy Ghost Service, the cleric publicly advised President Bola Tinubu on the worsening security situation, urging urgent action against terrorists and their sponsors.

    According to RCCG, Adeboye warned that insecurity could attract foreign intervention if not addressed and called for security chiefs to be held accountable.

    The statement quoted him as saying: “When they eliminate the terrorists, ask them to eliminate their sponsors too.”

    RCCG Clarifies Its Position

    The church maintained that Pastor Adeboye is a religious leader and not a political office holder, adding that RCCG is not affiliated with any political party.

    It stated that the General Overseer cannot dictate how elected officials govern and should not be blamed for the nation’s current challenges.

    The church urged the public to verify information through its official communication channels before sharing claims involving Pastor Adeboye or RCCG.

  • FG Ends Mandatory Three-Month Pre-Retirement Leave for Civil Servants

    The Federal Government has directed all Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) to stop placing civil servants on mandatory three-month pre-retirement leave, clarifying that the practice is not recognised under the Public Service Rules.

    The directive was issued by the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Didi Walson-Jack, in a circular addressed to ministers, permanent secretaries, service chiefs and heads of government agencies.

    FG Clarifies Public Service Rule

    In the circular titled “Correct Interpretation of Public Service Rule 120243 on Pre-Retirement Activities,” Walson-Jack said several MDAs had wrongly interpreted the retirement notice period as automatic leave, resulting in officers leaving their posts before their official retirement dates.

    She explained that the rule only requires civil servants approaching retirement to provide three months’ notice, attend a one-month pre-retirement workshop or seminar, and complete pension and documentation processes before retirement.

    “The so-called ‘mandatory three-month pre-retirement leave’ has no basis in the Public Service Rules,” she stated.

    Retiring Officers Must Remain on Duty

    According to the Head of Service, the three-month period is strictly a notice requirement and should not be treated as a leave entitlement.

    She noted that retiring officers are expected to continue carrying out their official responsibilities during the period, except when attending approved pre-retirement seminars or when granted leave under existing regulations.

    “A retiring officer must give three months’ notice before their effective date of retirement. This is a notice requirement, not a leave entitlement,” the circular stated.

    The directive further stressed that officers remain active members of the service until their official retirement date.

    MDAs Directed to Comply

    Walson-Jack instructed permanent secretaries, directors-general, chief executives and heads of agencies to ensure full compliance with the clarification.

    Under the new directive, retiring civil servants are expected to remain at work while completing pension documentation, reconciling records and attending approved retirement programmes.

    The clarification is expected to affect thousands of federal workers approaching retirement each year, as many MDAs had previously treated the notice period as a form of pre-retirement leave.

    Retirement in Nigeria’s federal civil service is based on either attaining 60 years of age or completing 35 years of service, whichever comes first.

  • Janmole Dies in Road Accident, TAMPAN Confirms

    Veteran Nollywood actor and comedian Okiki Adesina, popularly known as Janmole, has died following a fatal road accident that occurred on Monday, leaving the Nigerian film industry in mourning.

    His death was confirmed on Tuesday by the President of the Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Practitioners Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN), Bolaji Amusan, popularly known as Mr Latin.

    TAMPAN Confirms Actor’s Death

    Announcing the sad development through his Instagram page, Mr Latin expressed grief over the loss of the actor and offered prayers for his family and loved ones.

    According to him, Janmole died as a result of injuries sustained in the accident.

    “May the soul of our departed colleague, Adesina Okiki Janmole, who tragically lost his life in an accident, rest in perfect peace. May God grant his family, friends, and colleagues the strength and comfort to bear this irreparable loss. He will be greatly missed. Amen,” he wrote.

    Tributes Pour In

    The announcement has triggered an outpouring of condolences from colleagues, fans, and members of the entertainment industry, many of whom described Janmole as a talented actor and comedian whose contributions to Nollywood will not be forgotten.

    His passing adds to the growing list of losses recorded in the Nigerian entertainment industry in recent years.

    A Familiar Face in Nollywood

    Janmole was widely known for his comic roles and performances in Yoruba-language movies, earning recognition among audiences for his unique style and on-screen presence.

    Further details regarding the accident and burial arrangements have yet to be made public by his family or the association.

  • Oborevwori Explains Why Deltans Should Back Tinubu in 2027

    Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State has said it would be wrong for Deltans to vote against President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election, citing the President’s family connection to the state through First Lady Oluremi Tinubu.

    Speaking during an interview on Arise Television on Tuesday, the governor argued that Tinubu enjoys a unique relationship with Delta State that goes beyond politics and should earn him support from the people.

    Tinubu Has Family Ties to Delta, Says Governor

    Oborevwori described the President as an in-law to the state and suggested that the relationship should influence voting decisions in 2027.

    “The man is an in-law here, and it would be evil to vote against your in-law. It’s a family affair,” the governor said.

    He added that many people in the South-South region now regard Tinubu as one of their own because of his connection to the area.

    First Lady’s Influence

    The governor also linked growing support for the President in Delta State to First Lady Oluremi Tinubu’s roots and relationship with the people.

    “The First Lady is holding the state strong, and no Itsekiri person will vote against Tinubu. No Urhobo man will because their son is the governor,” he stated.

    His comments come months after the First Lady received a traditional title in the Warri Kingdom.

    In February 2026, Oluremi Tinubu was installed as Utukpa-Oritse, also known as Ugbone, meaning “Light of God,” by the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III.

    Defends Tinubu’s Economic Reforms

    Oborevwori also defended the economic policies of the Tinubu administration, arguing that federal reforms have increased revenue available to states and supported development projects.

    “Sometimes when I commission projects and say we have money, it is because of the reforms. If they were not working, we would not have funds,” he said.

    The governor maintained that the impact of the reforms is reflected in the improved financial capacity of state governments to execute projects and meet development goals.

  • Buratai Questions Why Security Agencies Can Track Influencers But Not Bandits

    Former Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Tukur Buratai (Rtd), has questioned the inability of security agencies to track down bandits and kidnappers despite their ability to quickly locate ordinary citizens and social media influencers.

    Buratai made the remarks during an interview on TVC, where he addressed concerns over the growing boldness of criminal gangs operating across parts of the country.

    Buratai Raises Concerns Over Tracking Criminals

    The retired military officer reacted to complaints about bandits who allegedly flaunt ransom proceeds and criminal activities on social media without facing immediate arrest.

    He challenged the notion that such criminals cannot be traced, arguing that the same intelligence tools used to monitor and apprehend civilians should be effective in locating bandit groups.

    “I don’t think they fail to locate. If they can locate ordinary citizens or social media influencers, I don’t believe they cannot locate these bandits that flaunt their loots or their activities,” Buratai said.

    Call for Improved Security Capacity

    Buratai noted that criminal groups have continued to evolve their tactics, making it necessary for security agencies to strengthen their capabilities.

    According to him, bandits have become increasingly emboldened, openly displaying proceeds of crime and using new methods to carry out attacks.

    He stressed the need for continuous capacity building and improved operational effectiveness among security personnel to tackle the changing security landscape.

    Growing Public Frustration

    His comments come amid increasing public concern over insecurity, particularly cases of kidnapping and banditry in different parts of Nigeria.

    Many Nigerians have repeatedly questioned how criminal groups are able to operate openly and share content online while security agencies struggle to dismantle their networks and rescue victims.

    Buratai’s remarks add to the ongoing national conversation on security reforms and the effectiveness of intelligence gathering in the fight against banditry.

     

  • Anthony Joshua Pledges Support for Families of Late Friends After Fatal Crash in Nigeria

    British-Nigerian boxing champion Anthony Joshua has pledged financial and emotional support for the families of two close friends who died in a car crash in Nigeria.

    The former heavyweight world champion spoke about the tragedy while reflecting on his preparations for his upcoming fight in Jeddah.

    Joshua Mourns Close Friends

    Joshua said he is still dealing with the emotional impact of losing Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele, both of whom were part of his team and long-time friends.

    He explained that he has chosen to focus on supporting their families as he processes the loss.

    “I have to put my emotions to the side because I focus on the parents, if I’m honest,” Joshua said.

    “My emotions can come at a later stage. I really look at the parents and understand it’s been most difficult for them. So, I don’t make it about me, I make it about them — the mums and the dads of my two friends.”

    Support Commitment and Career Focus

    Joshua added that he intends to stand by the families “as a good soldier,” stressing that his priority is to help them through the difficult period.

    He noted that while boxing remains central to his career, it also serves as a form of emotional balance and purpose for him during personal challenges.

    The boxer is scheduled to face Albanian fighter Kristian Prenga in Jeddah on July 25, in what will be his first appearance since the tragedy.

  • Oluremi Tinubu Speaks on Political Career, Calls Herself ‘Silent Worker’

    Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has reflected on her political journey, describing herself as a silent worker who focuses on results rather than public praise for her achievements.

    She made the remarks during a recent interview with journalists, where she responded to questions about her political record and contributions to governance.

    Tinubu Highlights Senate Record

    Oluremi Tinubu pointed to her years in the National Assembly, noting her service as Senator representing Lagos Central for three consecutive terms.

    She said her political journey has been defined by service and consistency, stressing that she prefers not to celebrate her own achievements publicly.

    “I wasn’t going to address it, but now that you’re putting me on the spot. I have ran elections. I am the first woman to be in the Senate three times. I don’t sing my own praise, but I am a silent worker,” she stated.

    Focus on Service, Not Recognition

    The First Lady added that her approach to leadership has always been centred on delivering impact rather than seeking recognition.

    She maintained that her contributions in public service speak for themselves through her years in elected office.

    Oluremi Tinubu served as Senator for Lagos Central before assuming the role of First Lady following the election of President Bola Tinubu.

  • David Ibiyeomie Responds to Criticism Over Clergy Silence on Nigeria’s Insecurity

    Founder of Salvation Ministries, Pastor David Ibiyeomie, has reacted to criticisms that religious leaders have remained silent on Nigeria’s worsening insecurity, saying the claims ignore past interventions by the clergy.

    The cleric spoke during a church service, where he addressed ongoing debates about the role of pastors in speaking out on national issues such as kidnappings and insecurity.

    Cleric Defends Past Interventions

    Ibiyeomie argued that religious leaders have not been silent over the years, insisting that many of the concerns being raised today were also spoken about during earlier administrations.

    He questioned why critics who were vocal in the past are now less active in their public commentary on governance and insecurity.

    “Now nobody is talking again, all those people that use to r!ot during are not r!oting again, Nigeria is a funny country. They talked during Jonathan, why they no talk again. They say men of God are not talking about the country’s insecurity, the ones that talked during Jonathan’s term, why’re they not talking now? The time we talked, una talk? We’ve been shouting since,” he said.

    Ongoing Debate on Religious Voices

    His remarks come amid renewed public debate over whether religious leaders should take stronger public positions on insecurity, kidnappings, and governance challenges in the country.

    While some Nigerians argue that clerics have a moral duty to speak out more forcefully, others believe their role should remain largely spiritual rather than political.

    The conversation continues as insecurity and public safety concerns dominate national discourse.