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  • Makinde-Backed PDP Faction Declares Jonathan Sole Presidential Candidate for 2027

    A faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) aligned with Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has declared former President Goodluck Jonathan as its sole presidential candidate for the 2027 general elections.

    The announcement was made on Tuesday in Abuja during the party’s presidential screening exercise, where senior member Babangida Aliyu confirmed that Jonathan had been granted a waiver from appearing before the committee.

    Jonathan Cleared Without Screening

    Aliyu explained that the decision was based on Jonathan’s extensive political experience, noting that his previous roles made additional screening unnecessary.

    According to him, Jonathan had served as deputy governor, governor, vice president and later president, making him automatically qualified for the party’s consideration.

    “In other words, he had been declared and cleared as the candidate of the PDP for the presidential election and that is President Jonathan,” Aliyu said.

    The development effectively positions Jonathan as the faction’s consensus flagbearer ahead of the 2027 polls.

    Screening Waivers Extended to Other Aspirants

    The committee also granted a waiver to Taofeek Arapaja, a member of the Interim National Working Committee, who is contesting the Oyo State governorship seat.

    Other governorship aspirants screened and cleared include Myebangara Andrew (Adamawa), Ikenya Danlami (Taraba), Etanabene Benedict (Delta), and Abdullahi Sheriff (Yobe).

    Faction Moves Signal Internal Realignment

    The announcement highlights ongoing internal realignments within the PDP as different blocs position themselves ahead of the 2027 general elections.

    While the faction insists its process follows party guidelines, the declaration is expected to further intensify political debates within the opposition party.

  • US lawmaker: Trump to hunt terrorists behind attacks on Christians in Nigeria after ISIS strike

    United States Congressman Riley Moore has said President Donald Trump is prepared to go after terrorists responsible for attacks on Christians in Nigeria, following a reported joint operation that killed a senior Islamic State commander. The statement has reignited debate around foreign involvement in Nigeria’s security challenges.

    Moore speaks on ISIS operation

    Moore made the comments during a television interview on NewsNation, where he referenced the killing of Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, described as one of ISIS’s top global commanders.

    He said the operation reflected a stronger posture by Washington against extremist groups operating across Africa, particularly those linked to violence against civilians.

    According to him, the strike sends a clear message to terror networks that the United States is actively monitoring and responding to threats in the region.

    Trump’s alleged focus on Nigeria security concerns

    Moore also claimed that Trump had shown personal interest in reports of violence affecting Christian communities in Nigeria.

    He stated that the former US president had asked for closer examination of the situation, prompting visits by members of the House Appropriations Committee to assess conditions on the ground.

    He added that findings from those engagements were later shared with the White House, with recommendations on how to strengthen protection for vulnerable communities.

    US and Nigeria security cooperation

    The lawmaker further noted that cooperation between the United States and Nigeria on counterterrorism is not new, tracing it back to the rise of Boko Haram in the mid-2010s.

    He explained that recent developments only reinforced the need for continued collaboration, especially in the Lake Chad region where extremist groups remain active.

    Nigerian defence authorities had earlier confirmed that the recent operation was intelligence-driven and carried out jointly with US support, targeting a key terrorist structure in the northeast.

    Security officials also linked the killed ISIS commander to weapons production, drone coordination and propaganda activities within the group’s global network.

    The development comes amid renewed international attention on Nigeria’s security landscape and the ongoing fight against insurgency across parts of the country.

  • El-Rufai’s Son Breaks Silence, Warns Over Father’s Detention Amid Bail Controversy

    Mohammed Bello El-Rufai, son of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, has reacted strongly to the continued detention of his father, insisting that the family is unafraid of intimidation or pressure.

    Speaking to journalists, the lawmaker said the El-Rufai family would not be silenced, warning that those allegedly responsible for his father’s situation would be held accountable if anything happens to him.

    “We fear no one,” El-Rufai’s son says

    Mohammed stated that the family remains firm despite the ongoing legal and detention issues surrounding the former governor.

    “We, the El-Rufais, fear no one and nothing,” he said.

    He added that any harm that comes to his father would not go unanswered, stressing that those involved in his continued detention should be prepared for consequences.

    “If anything happens to my father, Nasir El-Rufai, those behind his continued detention despite being granted bail should be the ones living in fear,” he said.

    Ongoing detention claims and legal disputes

    Nasir El-Rufai has reportedly been in and out of custody since February 2026 following allegations of corruption, money laundering, and abuse of office during his tenure as Kaduna State governor.

    He was said to have first been arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) after honouring an invitation, before being granted bail days later.

    However, reports claim he was later re-arrested by the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC), with additional allegations linked to ongoing investigations.

    He has also reportedly faced separate scrutiny from the Department of State Services (DSS) over alleged cybercrime-related offences.

    Family maintains strong stance

    Mohammed insisted that the family would not be intimidated by the situation, maintaining that they will continue to speak out on developments surrounding his father’s detention.

    The comments have since sparked reactions online, with supporters and critics weighing in on the unfolding legal and political drama.

  • Shettima Reveals Alleged Plot to Turn Tinubu Against Him, Shares Details of Early Presidency Tensions

    Vice-President Kashim Shettima has revealed that some individuals allegedly attempted to create distrust between him and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu just three months into their administration in 2023.

    He made the disclosure at the public presentation of “My Life of Duty and Allegiance”, the autobiography of former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, where he reflected on early political tensions within the presidency.

    Alleged plot within early months of government

    Shettima said the individuals, whom he did not name but claimed were from Borno State, allegedly informed President Tinubu that he was planning to assassinate him and take over power.

    He explained that the President personally confronted him after receiving the claims but chose not to believe the allegations after reviewing the situation.

    “Three months into our swearing in, some people told Tinubu I was planning to kill him to take over power,” Shettima said.

    He added that Tinubu called him over the issue and expressed concerns raised by the unnamed individuals.

    Tinubu’s reaction and trust stance

    According to Shettima, the President dismissed the allegations after assessing the claims and finding inconsistencies in the story presented to him.

    He noted that Tinubu referenced their relationship before the election, stressing that trust played a key role in his decision to ignore the reports.

    “Shettima’s clothes” remark also referenced

    Shettima also recounted a separate incident in which the same individuals allegedly tried to discourage Tinubu from associating closely with him.

    He said they told the President to stop wearing clothing associated with him, claiming it carried sinister intentions, an allegation Tinubu also reportedly dismissed.

    “The President said their story did not add up,” Shettima said, adding that Tinubu later wore the outfit again, describing the President as someone who does not believe in superstition.

    Call for unity among Nigerians

    The Vice-President used the platform to urge Nigerians to embrace unity and avoid actions that deepen political or ethnic divisions.

    He emphasised the need for citizens to act as one community rather than allowing misinformation and distrust to shape national relationships.

    The event, which also had former President Goodluck Jonathan, former Head of State Abdulsalami Abubakar, and other top political and military figures in attendance, was held in honour of General Gowon’s contributions to Nigeria’s history.

  • Oyo Police Clarify Ogbomoso Panic Was False Alarm, Warn Against Fake Bandit Rumours

    The Oyo State Police Command has dismissed reports of a bandit attack in Ogbomoso and Ajaawa, describing the widespread panic on Tuesday as a false alarm triggered by misinformation circulating within affected communities.

    The Command said normalcy has since been restored, while reassuring residents that there was no security breach in the area as earlier feared.

    Police Deploy Operatives After Panic Spreads

    According to the statement issued on May 19, 2026, panic broke out in parts of Ogbomoso and neighbouring communities, including Ajaawa Town, after rumours alleged that armed bandits had invaded the area near Are-Ago High School.

    The police said surveillance and patrol teams were immediately deployed to verify the claims and prevent breakdown of law and order.

    Upon arrival, officers engaged school authorities, including the principal, Mrs. Akanbi Ruth, who explained that the alarm started from students who reported sighting unfamiliar individuals near the school fence.

    NSCDC Officer, Civilians Cleared After Verification

    The Command disclosed that preliminary investigations identified the individuals at the centre of the panic as an officer of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps attached to the Kwara State Command, alongside two civilians.

    They were found in a Toyota Venza SUV and reportedly explained that they were in the area for a birthday visit.

    Security authorities in Ogbomoso were contacted to confirm the identity and status of the NSCDC officer involved.

    Altercation and Rumour Spread Trigger Escalation

    The police noted that an altercation between some teachers and the visitors further escalated suspicion within the school environment.

    This, according to the Command, led to students spreading unverified claims to nearby schools and communities, which quickly intensified panic across Ogbomoso and Ajaawa before facts were established.

    Police Warn Against Fake News

    The Command firmly stated that there was no bandit attack or invasion in the affected areas, stressing that the situation was fully contained.

    It added that patrols have been intensified and stakeholders engaged to reassure residents and maintain calm.

    The police also warned against the spread of fake news and unverified security reports, noting that such misinformation can trigger unnecessary fear and disrupt public order.

    It cautioned that individuals found guilty of spreading false security information will be investigated and prosecuted.

  • EFCC Arrests Ex-Power Minister Saleh Mamman After 75-Year Corruption Conviction

    The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arrested former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, days after he was convicted and handed a 75-year prison sentence over corruption-related offences involving about ₦22 billion.

    EFCC Chairman, Ola Olukoyede, confirmed that Mamman was picked up at about 3:30am on Tuesday in Kaduna following a court order directing security agencies to arrest him wherever he is found.

    Arrest Follows Court Conviction

    Mamman’s arrest comes after Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court in Abuja convicted him on a 12-count charge bordering on money laundering and diversion of public funds.

    The court ruled that the prosecution successfully proved its case beyond reasonable doubt, leading to multiple prison terms on each count, which are to run consecutively, amounting to a total of 75 years.

    Justice Omotosho also ordered that the sentence takes effect from the date of Mamman’s arrest.

    ₦22 Billion Power Project Fraud Case

    The former minister was prosecuted over alleged fraudulent transactions linked to the diversion of funds meant for major electricity infrastructure projects under the Ministry of Power.

    The affected projects include the Mambilla and Zungeru hydroelectric power schemes, both considered critical to Nigeria’s long-term energy expansion plan.

    The court further ordered the forfeiture of recovered funds and properties linked to the case to the Federal Government, as well as the refund of outstanding diverted amounts.

    EFCC Moves to Enforce Judgment

    Following the ruling, the EFCC intensified efforts to ensure enforcement of the judgment, leading to Mamman’s arrest in Kaduna.

    The commission said the arrest was necessary to ensure compliance with the court’s decision and continuation of the sentencing process.

    The case adds to ongoing anti-corruption prosecutions involving high-profile former public officials accused of mismanagement of public funds.

  • Togo Removes Visa Requirements for All African Nationals, Allows 30-Day Visa-Free Entry

    The government of Togo has announced the removal of visa requirements for citizens of all African countries travelling into its territory for short stays, in a sweeping policy aimed at strengthening continental integration.

    The decision was disclosed on Tuesday in a statement issued by Togo’s Ministry of Security via its official X account.

    30-Day Visa-Free Entry Approved

    According to the statement, all African nationals holding valid national passports can now enter Togo without a visa for a period of up to 30 days.

    The government said the policy is designed to promote ease of movement, regional cooperation, and stronger ties across African countries.

    “Togo takes a historic step in strengthening African integration,” the ministry said.

    It added that the country’s leadership remains committed to positioning Togo as a hub of openness and opportunity within the continent.

    Travel Declaration Still Required

    Despite the visa waiver, authorities clarified that travellers must still complete an online travel declaration at least 24 hours before arrival.

    The requirement, they said, is to ensure proper entry documentation and security tracking for incoming visitors.

    Push for African Integration

    The policy places Togo among a growing list of African nations easing travel restrictions to encourage intra-African mobility, trade, and tourism.

    Rwanda has also implemented a similar visa-free arrangement for African nationals in recent years.

    In response, Nigeria has begun rolling out a 30-day visa exemption for Rwandan citizens, signaling a broader shift toward more open travel policies across the continent.

  • Nigerian Army to Recruit 28,000 New Troops as Tinubu Orders Major Security Expansion

    The Nigerian Army has announced plans to recruit and train an additional 28,000 troops as part of a wide-ranging expansion aimed at strengthening national security amid rising threats across the country.

    The announcement was made by the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Waidi Shuaibu, during the opening of the First Bi-Annual Conference 2026 in Abuja, where he outlined new strategies to boost military manpower and operational capacity.

    Mass Recruitment Drive Announced

    According to the Army leadership, the recruitment is part of directives from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to address manpower gaps within the armed forces.

    The move is expected to significantly boost “boots on the ground” across various theatres of operation, including insurgency-hit regions in the North-East and banditry-prone North-West.

    The Army said the new personnel will be trained to support intelligence-led operations and rapid response missions across the country.

    New Military Formations Across States

    Alongside the recruitment plan, the Nigerian Army has established several new formations to strengthen security coverage nationwide.

    These include the 15 Brigade in parts of the South-East, new battalions in Kogi and Adamawa States, as well as logistics bases in Ilorin, Kwara State and Gusau, Zamfara State.

    A new training depot has also been set up in Amasiri, Ebonyi State, which will serve as a key centre for training the incoming recruits.

    Security Strategy and Government Push

    Military authorities say the expansion is aimed at improving coordination, enhancing intelligence gathering, and increasing response speed to emerging threats across different regions.

    Lt. Gen. Shuaibu commended President Tinubu for continued support in equipment procurement, welfare improvements, and infrastructure upgrades within the Army.

    He also noted that the restructuring has already contributed to improved operational outcomes in some volatile areas.

    Concerns Over Implementation

    While the development has been welcomed by some security analysts and stakeholders, concerns remain over training capacity, troop welfare, and the challenges of integrating such a large number of recruits within a short timeframe.

    There are also ongoing discussions around casualties and long-term sustainability of military operations amid widespread insecurity.

    Further details on recruitment requirements, timelines, and application processes are expected to be released by the Nigerian Army in the coming weeks.

     

  • HR Manager Sparks Debate After Defending Frank Edoho Amid Sandra’s Abuse Allegations

    A Human Resources Manager, Victoria Olamide, has triggered heated reactions online after sharing her opinion on the ongoing controversy involving media personality Frank Edoho and his ex-wife, Sandra Edoho.

    The controversy surrounding the former couple intensified after Sandra publicly accused the television host of infidelity, domestic violence, emotional abuse, and neglect following the collapse of their marriage.

    Sandra Released Graphic Evidence

    Sandra had earlier shared a lengthy statement online where she accused Frank Edoho of serial cheating and abuse during their marriage.

    She also released graphic photos and videos showing bruises and bloodstained body parts, which she claimed were evidence of physical abuse she allegedly suffered while they were together.

    According to her, she decided to speak publicly after a leaked audio recording linked her romantically with Nigerian singer Chike.

    Sandra claimed Frank violated her privacy by allegedly circulating the leaked recordings online.

    Frank Edoho Reacts

    Responding to the allegations, Frank Edoho reportedly denied parts of the claims while insisting that Sandra’s relationship with Chike had allegedly lasted for a long period.

    The public exchange between both parties has continued to dominate conversations across Nigerian social media platforms.

    HR Manager Weighs In

    Joining the debate, Victoria Olamide took to social media to share her own perspective on the matter.

    According to her, Sandra’s public accusations appeared to be a reaction to the embarrassment caused by the leaked cheating allegations.

    Her comments quickly went viral and divided internet users.

    While some social media users accused her of dismissing serious abuse allegations and labelled her a “pick me,” others agreed with her position and defended her right to express her opinion on the situation.

    Online Reactions Continue

    The controversy has continued to generate mixed reactions online, with many Nigerians debating issues surrounding marriage, infidelity, privacy, domestic violence, and public image.

    As discussions continue, neither Frank Edoho nor Sandra has officially announced any legal action regarding the latest online exchanges.

  • Kwara Residents Risk Death Crossing Collapsed Moro Bridge After Floods

    Residents and commuters in Kwara State are risking their lives daily by crossing the collapsed Moro Bridge on the Ilorin-Igbeti Federal Highway following severe flooding caused by the overflowing Moro River.

    The collapsed bridge, located in Moro area of the state, has left thousands stranded and disrupted movement between Ilorin, parts of Oyo State, and northern communities in Kwara including Kaiama and Baruten.

    Flooding Worsens Situation

    Heavy rainfall on May 18 reportedly caused the Moro River to overflow, submerging vehicles and worsening conditions around the damaged bridge.

    Eyewitness videos circulating online showed stranded passengers climbing onto vehicle roofs while others trekked through floodwaters carrying loads on their heads in desperate attempts to cross.

    Some commuters were also seen balancing dangerously on the remains of the collapsed Bailey bridge despite safety concerns.

    Bridge Collapsed Weeks Ago

    The colonial-era Moro Bailey Bridge reportedly collapsed around 5 a.m. on April 30 after a heavy-duty truck passed over the aging structure.

    Several commuters were injured during the incident and taken to hospitals in Ilorin for treatment.

    The bridge serves as a major transport route linking communities in Kwara and Oyo states, making its collapse a major setback for residents, traders, farmers, and transporters.

    Farmers, Traders Lament Hardship

    Residents said the situation has severely affected economic activities, especially the movement of farm produce from rural communities to markets.

    Farmers and traders lamented rising transportation costs, delayed movement of goods, and possible spoilage of perishable food items.

    Many commuters also complained that they now spend longer hours navigating alternative routes or trekking through dangerous paths to reach their destinations.

    Government Responds

    The Kwara State Government earlier announced traffic diversions and deployed engineers to carry out palliative repairs on alternative routes.

    According to the Ministry of Works, engineers were mobilised shortly after the collapse to ease traffic congestion while work continues on a permanent replacement bridge.

    The government also dismissed reports claiming huge sums were spent on emergency interventions, insisting that only ₦27 million was used for palliative works on the federal bridge.

    Residents Demand Urgent Action

    Despite the government’s intervention, residents and community leaders said repairs have been too slow, forcing people to continue risking their lives daily.

    They called on both the federal and state governments to urgently provide temporary solutions and accelerate the completion of the new bridge before more lives are lost.

    The incident has again raised concerns over the poor condition of aging infrastructure across several parts of Nigeria, especially major transport corridors linking farming communities.