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  • Malema Questions Job Creation Claims After Ghana Repatriates Citizens From South Africa

    Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema has questioned claims that removing African migrants from South Africa would solve the country’s unemployment crisis following the recent repatriation of Ghanaian citizens amid rising xenophobic tensions.

    Malema made the remarks during a media interaction in late May 2026 after Ghana evacuated hundreds of its nationals from South Africa over growing safety concerns linked to anti-immigrant protests and attacks.

    Ghana Repatriates Citizens Amid Tensions

    The Ghanaian government recently organised voluntary repatriation flights for about 300 citizens from South Africa, with more departures expected in the coming days.

    The move followed increasing reports of harassment, intimidation and xenophobic violence targeting foreign nationals, particularly migrants from other African countries.

    According to reports, nearly 900 Ghanaians registered for evacuation after protests and threats escalated in some communities. South African authorities reportedly stated that only a small number of those repatriated were legally undocumented.

    Malema Rejects Anti-Migrant Narrative

    Reacting to the development, Malema challenged arguments that foreign nationals are responsible for South Africa’s economic struggles and unemployment rate.

    “Because the Ghanaians are gone now, 300 of them. How many 300 jobs were created after the Ghanaians have left?” he asked.

    The opposition politician described the narrative blaming migrants for job losses as “a myth” and “a lie,” arguing that such rhetoric only deepens division among Africans and fuels xenophobia.

    Malema also criticised Ghana’s decision to rapidly evacuate its citizens, saying the move painted all South Africans negatively and reduced opportunities for diplomatic engagement.

    Debate Over Immigration and Unemployment

    South Africa continues to battle one of the highest unemployment rates in the world, with economic inequality, poverty and rising crime remaining major concerns.

    Recent anti-immigrant demonstrations have seen protesters demand that undocumented foreigners leave the country, with some groups linking migrants to crime and pressure on public services.

    However, analysts and rights groups have repeatedly warned against scapegoating migrants for broader structural economic failures, including corruption, weak governance and poor service delivery.

    Malema has consistently opposed xenophobic violence, while maintaining that immigration laws should still be enforced legally and peacefully.

    Social Media Reactions Intensify

    The comments have triggered widespread reactions across social media platforms, with Africans from different countries debating migration, regional unity and economic hardship.

    Some users supported Malema’s position, arguing that African countries should focus on unity and economic cooperation rather than division.

    Others defended tougher immigration enforcement, insisting that South Africa has a right to control illegal migration and protect local jobs.

    The controversy has again highlighted growing tensions between Pan-African ideals promoted under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and frustrations surrounding unemployment and insecurity across the continent.

    Diplomatic Concerns Remain

    Although both Ghanaian and South African officials have condemned violence and called for calm, concerns remain over recurring xenophobic attacks in South Africa.

    Observers say the latest crisis underscores the urgent need for stronger regional cooperation, economic reforms and policies capable of addressing youth unemployment and insecurity across Africa.

    The development also raises fresh questions about how African countries can balance migration policies, economic integration and citizen protection without inflaming ethnic or national tensions.

  • Spyro Doubles Down on Pastors Criticism Over Insecurity in Nigeria

    Nigerian singer Spyro has intensified his criticism of religious leaders in the country, insisting that pastors and clerics who remain silent over worsening insecurity are indirectly supporting oppression.

    The singer made the remarks while reacting to backlash that followed his earlier comments against Nigerian churches and religious institutions over their response to insecurity and violence across the country.

    Spyro Defends Earlier Remarks

    Speaking in a video shared online, Spyro maintained that religious leaders have a duty to speak for their members during periods of national crisis.

    According to him, millions of Nigerians rely on churches and religious institutions for guidance, making it necessary for influential clerics to publicly address insecurity and pressure authorities to act.

    “Every pastor in Nigeria, if you’re not speaking up right now over the high rate of insecurity in the country, it means you are part of the system and an oppressor,” he said.

    Singer References Oyo Kidnapping Incident

    Spyro also referenced the recent kidnapping of schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State while expressing concern over the country’s security situation.

    He questioned why more prominent pastors and clerics have not publicly intensified conversations around the attacks and the safety of ordinary Nigerians.

    “As a pastor, you’re responsible to your members because they attend your churches, so you need to speak up. Yes, the government is the problem, but I have every right to hold the church accountable,” he added.

    The singer further lamented the condition of the kidnapped victims, saying the situation should provoke stronger reactions from influential voices across the country.

    Mixed Reactions Trail Video

    The latest comments have generated mixed reactions online, with some Nigerians supporting Spyro’s position that religious leaders should become more vocal on national issues.

    Others, however, argued that clerics already pray and engage privately with authorities, insisting that the responsibility for tackling insecurity rests primarily with the government and security agencies.

    Spyro had earlier criticised churches and mosques for allegedly continuing normal religious activities while insecurity, kidnappings and violence persist across different parts of the country.

    Growing Concerns Over Insecurity

    The singer’s remarks come amid growing public concern over repeated cases of kidnappings, attacks on schools and violent crimes in several states.

    Recent incidents in Oyo State involving abducted schoolchildren and teachers have triggered outrage online, with many Nigerians calling for stronger security measures and urgent government intervention.

  • Kwankwaso Fires Back at Governor Yusuf, Defends “Political Boy” Comment

    Former Kano State Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso has intensified his political disagreement with Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf after dismissing claims that he insulted the governor by referring to him as a “boy” or “stooge.”

    Kwankwaso spoke while addressing supporters at his Miller Road residence in Kano, where he defended his comments and insisted they reflected political mentorship within the Kwankwasiyya movement rather than disrespect.

    Kwankwaso Responds to Governor Yusuf

    The latest exchange followed remarks by Governor Yusuf, who reportedly criticised Kwankwaso over comments suggesting he was politically subordinate to him.

    Reacting to the criticism, Kwankwaso argued that several politicians who rose through his political structure had previously been described in similar terms without controversy.

    “I heard that some people said they dislike being called boys. If not for insolence, how could Mai Gidan Ruwa or Aminu Goro say they were not my boys politically?” he said.

    Reference to Ganduje Raises Attention

    Kwankwaso also referenced former Kano State Governor Abdullahi Umar Ganduje while defending his position.

    “How could even Ganduje deny that he was once my boy?” he added during the address to supporters.

    The remarks appeared aimed at reinforcing his long-standing influence within Kano politics and the Kwankwasiyya political movement, which has remained one of the dominant political structures in the state for years.

    Political Tension Within Kwankwasiyya

    The comments have further fuelled speculation about growing tension between Kwankwaso and Governor Yusuf despite both figures being closely linked politically.

    Governor Yusuf emerged under the Kwankwasiyya political structure and has repeatedly acknowledged Kwankwaso’s role in his political rise. However, recent public disagreements have triggered discussions about possible cracks within the movement.

    Political observers in Kano believe the latest exchange may deepen internal divisions ahead of future political alignments in the state.

    Supporters React as Debate Continues

    The development has generated mixed reactions among supporters of both leaders, with some defending Kwankwaso’s comments as political reality while others described the remarks as unnecessary and disrespectful.

    The dispute also comes amid heightened political activities and realignments ahead of the 2027 elections in Kano and across Nigeria.

  • Concerned Fulani Group Rejects US Narrative Linking Ethnic Group to Nigeria’s Insecurity

    The Concerned Fulani People of Nigeria has called on international actors, including the United States, to avoid portraying the Fulani ethnic group as the primary driver of insecurity in Nigeria, warning that such narratives could worsen ethnic tensions and deepen mistrust across communities.

    The group made the appeal in a statement signed by Ibrahim Barkindo Chubado, where it criticised what it described as inconsistent external reporting on Nigeria’s security challenges and rejected attempts to generalise criminal activity to an entire ethnic group.

    Group Faults External Security Narratives

    According to the statement, recent international commentary and reports linking Fulani communities to widespread violence and banditry were misleading and dangerous.

    The group argued that earlier assessments had cautioned against ethnic profiling, insisting that newer narratives appeared to contradict those positions and risk inflaming divisions.

    It also referenced past national debates during the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari, when Fulani identity was frequently associated with insecurity discussions, noting that such framing allegedly led to attacks on settlements and loss of property in some communities.

    Claims of Historical and Regional Context

    The group maintained that many Fulani families in states such as Benue, Plateau, and Taraba have lived in those areas for generations and should not be treated as outsiders or automatically linked to criminal activity.

    It stressed that conflicts involving herders and farmers are often driven by complex factors, including land use disputes, environmental pressures, and local political tensions, rather than ethnicity alone.

    The statement also dismissed reports attributed to international organisations that allegedly referenced “Fulani militants,” describing such claims as unfair stereotyping that could escalate existing tensions.

    Insecurity Not Linked to One Group, Says Statement

    The group insisted that Nigeria’s insecurity landscape is multi-layered and involves different actors, including bandit groups, terrorist organisations, separatist movements, and communal clashes across various regions.

    It argued that no single ethnic or religious group should be held responsible for the country’s broader security challenges.

    Call for Responsible Reporting and Unity

    The statement urged international partners and Nigerian authorities to prioritise evidence-based reporting and avoid narratives that could undermine national cohesion.

    It warned that ethnic scapegoating and divisive framing would only deepen mistrust at a time when stronger unity is needed to address insecurity.

    The group concluded that Nigeria’s stability depends on fairness in reporting and a collective commitment to national integration rather than ethnic blame.

  • NELFUND Denies Suspending ₦20,000 Student Upkeep Allowance

    The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has dismissed viral claims suggesting that student upkeep allowances under its scheme have been suspended, describing the reports as false and misleading.

    In a statement released by the agency, NELFUND condemned the circulation of what it described as a fabricated newspaper front page and fake letter alleging that upkeep payments had been stopped.

    NELFUND Rejects Viral Claims

    According to the agency, the documents being circulated online were completely fake and did not originate from the Fund.

    NELFUND also disclosed that The Nigerian Tribune, whose name and identity were allegedly used in the fake publication, confirmed that the front page was fabricated.

    The agency urged students and members of the public to disregard the reports and rely only on verified communication channels for official updates.

    ₦20,000 Monthly Stipend Still Active

    NELFUND currently provides interest-free loans to eligible Nigerian tertiary institution students, including a monthly upkeep allowance of ₦20,000.

    The Fund stated that the programme remains active and continues to support students across the country despite the false reports circulating online.

    According to the agency, more than 1.5 million Nigerian students are currently benefiting from the scheme nationwide.

    Agency Confirms ₦98 Billion Disbursement

    The Fund further disclosed that it has continued to process and disburse payments to beneficiaries, with recent disbursements reportedly exceeding ₦98 billion.

    NELFUND admitted that some students may experience delays due to technical and processing challenges but insisted that applications and payments have not been suspended.

    The agency appealed to students to remain patient while efforts continue to resolve outstanding technical issues affecting some beneficiaries.

    Students Asked To Follow Official Channels

    NELFUND advised students awaiting payments or updates to continue monitoring its official portal and verified communication platforms for accurate information.

    The agency also warned against spreading unverified reports capable of causing confusion among applicants and beneficiaries.

    The controversy comes amid growing public attention on Nigeria’s student loan scheme, which was introduced to improve access to higher education financing for students across tertiary institutions.

  • VDM Fires Back At Bayo Onanuga Over Arrest Call, Alleges Plot To Silence Him

    Social media personality Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as Verydarkman (VDM), has reacted strongly after presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga allegedly called for legal action against him over a viral fake voice note linked to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

    The controversy followed a statement credited to Onanuga on Wednesday, where the presidential aide reportedly demanded that VDM face the law over the circulation of an alleged fake audio involving the president.

    VDM Alleges Attempt To “Cage” Him

    In a lengthy statement shared on social media, Verydarkman accused Onanuga of deliberately spreading false information against him in a bid to create grounds to silence him.

    According to the activist, the move was allegedly driven by personal hatred and frustration over his outspoken criticism of issues affecting the country.

    “It’s been over 24 hours since the no brain Bayo Onanuga, who unfortunately is the spokesperson of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who also sadly is the president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, came out to spread false information about me in order to enable him have the opportunity to cage me,” he said.

    ‘Their Plan Failed’

    VDM further claimed that those allegedly behind the move believed they finally had an opportunity to bring him down, but insisted their plans failed.

    “As the ancestors will have it, their whole plan failed before their eyes,” he added.

    The activist argued that several major national issues have trended online without attracting reactions from government officials, yet attention was suddenly shifted toward him over the viral controversy.

    “When I read that tweet he made, it was obvious it came from hate. In his mind, he believes that this boy don enter hand. Time don reach,” he said.

    Controversy Over Viral Audio

    The development comes days after a manipulated audio clip allegedly linked to President Tinubu circulated widely on social media.

    Several online users had earlier claimed that the audio was AI-generated and superimposed on a previous VDM video by unknown individuals.

    The controversy has continued to generate heated reactions online, with supporters of the activist accusing government officials of targeting critics, while others insisted that fake and manipulated content should attract legal consequences.

    The incident has also renewed conversations around AI-generated misinformation, social media regulation, and political tension ahead of the 2027 general elections.

  • Atiku Visits Amaechi After Winning ADC Presidential Ticket

    Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar on Thursday visited former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi at his Abuja residence, hours after emerging as the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) for the 2027 election.

    Atiku was accompanied by former Sokoto State Governor Aminu Tambuwal, former ADC National Chairman Ralph Nwosu, and other party leaders during the visit.

    Visit Comes After ADC Primary Victory

    The meeting followed the conclusion of the ADC presidential primary held at the Congress Hall of Transcorp Hilton, Abuja, where Atiku defeated Amaechi and former banker Mohammed Hayatu-Deen to secure the party’s ticket.

    According to results announced by the party, Atiku polled 1,846,370 votes, while Amaechi secured 504,117 votes and Hayatu-Deen received 177,120 votes.

    Former Senate President David Mark, who currently leads the party, later presented the ADC flag to Atiku after his victory was confirmed.

    ADC Rejects Consensus Arrangement

    The ADC had earlier adopted the direct primary option after the three aspirants reportedly declined calls for a consensus candidate ahead of the exercise.

    The primary election attracted attention amid ongoing political realignments ahead of the 2027 general election.

    Despite the contest, Atiku’s visit to Amaechi appeared to signal efforts toward unity within the opposition party after the primary process.

    Atiku Speaks On Meeting

    In a post shared on his X handle after the visit, Atiku disclosed that both leaders discussed the current challenges facing the country, including insecurity and economic hardship.

    “This afternoon, I visited my brother and compatriot, former Governor of Rivers State and ex-Minister of Transportation, Chief Rotimi Amaechi, at his Abuja residence,” Atiku wrote.

    “Beyond the warmth and camaraderie, we had deep and honest conversations about the troubling state of our nation, the growing economic pain, insecurity, and the urgent responsibility on patriotic Nigerians to continue engaging in the search for solutions that can rescue our country from drift and despair.”

    Birthday Banter And Arsenal Joke

    Atiku also revealed that he used the opportunity to celebrate Amaechi’s birthday and joked about Arsenal’s recent success.

    “I also felicitated with him on the occasion of his birthday yesterday and teased that Arsenal’s historic triumph could not have arrived at a better time. Chief Amaechi, a thoroughly well-loaded Gunner, took the banter in very good spirits,” he added.

    The former vice president further joked that Amaechi apologised for not preparing Fisherman Soup before the visit.

    The development comes as opposition parties intensify consultations and coalition talks ahead of the 2027 presidential election in Nigeria.

  • NDC Confirms May 29 Primaries Nationwide Amid Eid Holiday Disruptions

    The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has confirmed that its presidential, governorship, National Assembly and State Assembly primaries will hold nationwide on Friday, May 29, 2026, despite logistical disruptions caused by the Eid-el-Kabir holidays.

    The party disclosed this in a statement signed by its National Chairman, Moses Cleopas, and National Secretary, Barr. Ikenna Enekweizu, following concerns over movement challenges affecting aspirants and party officials across the country.

    NDC Explains Eid Holiday Adjustments

    According to the statement, the party’s original timetable for May 28 and 29 remains valid, but transportation difficulties and limited flight availability disrupted the movement of aspirants and screening committee members after the screening exercise in Abuja.

    The party said May 28 would now be used for arrivals, consultations, INEC documentation, meetings with security agencies and stakeholder engagements across various states ahead of the primaries.

    “Consequently, the party has decided that May 28 should be used for arrivals, documentation with INEC and security agencies, consultative meetings, and other preparations, while the actual primaries will now hold on May 29,” the statement read.

    Party Warns Against Unauthorized Activities

    The NDC stressed that no agency of government, including the police, INEC, Department of State Services (DSS) or any other institution, is expected to participate in activities scheduled for May 28 outside official consultations.

    The party warned that any engagement outside the approved guidelines would be regarded as illegal and unauthorized.

    “No agencies of the state, viz., police, INEC, DSS, etc., are to play any role in the programs and meetings of May 28. Any activities carried out outside these guidelines would be unauthorized and deemed illegal,” the statement added.

    Order Of Primaries Announced

    The party also released the sequence for the nationwide exercise scheduled for May 29.

    According to the NDC, the process will begin with the presidential affirmation, followed by National Assembly primaries and affirmations, State Assembly primaries and affirmations, before concluding with governorship primaries and affirmations.

    It added that all results from across the states would be forwarded to the National Headquarters, where the National Working Committee (NWC) would officially announce the final outcomes.

    The party insisted that no state executive or electoral committee has the authority to independently declare results.

    “We call for understanding and urge all participants to conduct themselves responsibly, as the party has zero tolerance for violence, disorderly conduct, and hooliganism,” the statement noted.

    Electoral Committees Released

    The NDC also unveiled members of its electoral committees assigned to oversee the nationwide primaries across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.

    Among those appointed are Professor Osita Ogbu for Anambra State, Dr. Osusu Osusu for Rivers State, Chief Barnabas Ejisi for the FCT, Dr. Peter Onigah for Ebonyi State, and Alhaji Sidi Abdul Bomi for Lagos State.

    Others include Dr. Kebiru Umoru for Delta State, Barr. Fredrick Owotorufa for Edo State, Comrade Babatunde Ali for Imo State, Dr. Clement Agiangie for Akwa Ibom State, and Mainasara Sani Abubakar for Kano State.

    The party said the constitution of the committees reflects its commitment to credible and transparent primaries ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    The latest development comes as political parties intensify preparations for the 2027 elections amid growing political realignments and internal consultations across the country.

  • Iyabo Ojo Questions Security Agencies After Oyo Kidnap Cases

    Nollywood actress Iyabo Ojo has reacted to the growing insecurity in Nigeria following recent kidnapping incidents in Oyo State, questioning the effectiveness of security agencies and the country’s military structure.

    In a viral video circulating online, the actress expressed frustration over the continuous attacks by bandits and kidnappers across different parts of the country despite the presence of security operatives.

    Actress Speaks On Fear And Silence

    Speaking in the video, Iyabo Ojo said Nigerians have become too afraid to speak up about the worsening security situation in the country.

    “This is not about APC is not doing well, Tinubu is not doing well. We ourselves are not ready because we are too afraid. We are too afraid to speak and to stand by the truth,” she said.

    The actress stressed that insecurity should not be reduced to political arguments alone, insisting that citizens also have a responsibility to demand accountability and speak against violence.

    Questions Over Bandit Attacks

    Iyabo Ojo also questioned how armed bandits continue to invade communities, abduct residents and carry out attacks despite the presence of military personnel across the country.

    She called on security agencies and the government to explain the challenges they are facing in tackling insecurity.

    “What is going on? Are these people more than you military men who are supposed to be in charge of protecting the lives and property of your citizens?” she queried.

    The actress added that she finds it difficult to believe that criminal groups are stronger than Nigeria’s security forces.

    Video Sparks Online Reactions

    Her comments have generated mixed reactions on social media, with many Nigerians agreeing with her concerns over the increasing cases of kidnappings and violent attacks nationwide.

    Others argued that both citizens and the government must work together to address the country’s worsening security crisis.

    The video comes amid growing outrage over recent abductions involving schoolchildren and residents in parts of Oyo State and other regions across Nigeria.

    Discussions around insecurity, kidnappings and the role of security agencies continue to dominate latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today as concerns rise over public safety across the country.

     

  • Donald Trump Threatens Military Action Against Oman Over Strait of Hormuz Control Plan

    U.S. President Donald Trump has threatened possible military action against Oman if the Gulf nation moves ahead with plans to partner with Iran in asserting joint control over the strategic Strait of Hormuz, a key global shipping route.

    Trump Issues Warning Over Strategic Waterway

    Speaking at a cabinet meeting on Wednesday, May 27, Trump said the United States would not allow any country to control the Strait of Hormuz, describing it as international waters that must remain open for global trade.

    He warned that any attempt by Oman and Iran to impose control or introduce tolls on vessels passing through the route would be firmly resisted.

    “It’s international waters, and Oman will behave just like everybody else, or we’ll have to blow them up. They understand that. They’ll be fine,” Trump said.

    U.S.–Iran Negotiations Ongoing

    The comments come as U.S. and Iranian negotiators continue discussions aimed at reaching a memorandum of understanding to keep the Strait of Hormuz open to international shipping without additional charges.

    Reports suggest the talks also include negotiations over Iran’s highly enriched uranium stockpiles, with both sides seeking to avoid further escalation.

    Strait of Hormuz at the Centre of Global Tensions

    The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most important oil transit routes, making it a recurring flashpoint in geopolitical tensions involving the United States, Iran, and Gulf states.

    Iran has reportedly explored arrangements with Oman that could introduce tolls for ships passing through the waterway, a move Washington strongly opposes.

    Growing Diplomatic Pressure

    Trump, who also hinted at potential military escalation if negotiations fail, said the U.S. could “finish the job” if a deal is not reached.

    The State Department further amplified his remarks by sharing a video of the warning on social media, underscoring Washington’s firm position on the matter.

    Diplomatic efforts involving Oman, a long-time mediator between the U.S. and Iran, continue amid rising uncertainty over the future of the agreement.