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  • Court Jails Ex-Power Minister Saleh Mamman 75 Years for ₦33.8bn Fraud, Orders Arrest

    A Federal High Court in Abuja has sentenced former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, to 75 years in prison after finding him guilty of money laundering and fraud involving ₦33.8 billion.

    The judgment was delivered on Wednesday by Justice James Omotosho, who convicted Mamman on all 12 counts filed against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

    Court delivers long jail terms on multiple counts

    The court handed the former minister seven years imprisonment on 10 counts, while he also received three years on one count and two years on another.

    Justice Omotosho ruled that the sentences would run consecutively, meaning they will not run at the same time.

    However, the judge allowed an option of a ₦10 million fine on count four, while maintaining that other counts carry no option of fine.

    ₦33.8bn linked to power projects

    Mamman was arraigned in July 2024 on a 12-count charge bordering on conspiracy and money laundering linked to funds meant for the Zungeru and Mambilla hydroelectric power projects.

    The EFCC alleged that the former minister worked with officials and private firms to “indirectly convert” the ₦33.8 billion in question.

    He pleaded not guilty to the charges marked FHC/ABJ/CR/273/2024.

    EFCC presents witnesses, exhibits

    During trial, the anti-graft agency called 17 witnesses and tendered 43 exhibits before closing its case.

    On May 7, 2026, the court convicted Mamman in absentia after holding that the prosecution had proven its case beyond reasonable doubt.

    Arrest warrant issued

    Following the sentencing, Justice Omotosho ordered the forfeiture of foreign currencies recovered from the convict as well as four properties traced to him in Abuja.

    The court also issued a warrant for Mamman’s arrest and directed security agencies to work with Interpol to ensure his capture.

    Mohammed Ahmed, who appeared for the convict, told the court he was unaware of Mamman’s whereabouts, saying repeated calls to him did not go through.

    The judge ordered that the sentence would commence from the day Mamman is arrested.

  • FG dismisses ‘Japa’ education crisis claims, says fewer Nigerians now study abroad

    The Federal Government has dismissed claims that Nigeria currently ranks among countries with the highest number of students studying abroad, insisting that reforms in the education sector are beginning to reverse the trend.

    Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, stated this during an interview on Channels Television on Tuesday while reacting to reports about Nigeria’s outbound student migration.

    Minister rejects 2023 data

    The programme presenter had referenced 2023 data showing that Nigeria ranked third globally in outbound student mobility, accounting for about five per cent of students studying outside their home countries.

    However, Alausa dismissed the figures as outdated and no longer reflective of the current reality in Nigeria’s education sector.

    “That’s not Japa. And please, qualify your data. Thank God you told me it was 2023 figure,” he said.

    According to the minister, 2023 represented a difficult period for Nigerian universities due to prolonged academic disruptions and underinvestment in tertiary education.

    ‘Things have changed’

    Alausa said conditions in Nigerian universities have improved significantly under the current administration.

    “2023 was when we came in. There was no academic continuity. They had the kind of extensive investment you’ve made in a tertiary education that wasn’t there,” he stated.

    The minister revealed that the Ministry of Education had been monitoring outbound student movement through its educational support services department.

    According to him, the government has observed what he described as a “precipitous drop” in the number of Nigerian students leaving the country for studies abroad.

    “We’ve seen precipitous drop in those number of student going out. Our tertiary institutions are better now. We have academic continuity, academic session continuity,” he said.

    FG cites rising confidence in local institutions

    Alausa pointed to programmes like the Joint Universities Preliminary Examinations Board (JUPEB), Nigeria’s equivalent of British A-levels, as evidence of growing confidence in local education.

    He explained that many students who previously travelled abroad for similar programmes are now enrolling within Nigeria instead.

    The minister also referenced institutions like the University of Lagos law programme, claiming that some schools now receive more applications than available admission slots.

    “Kids are staying there. The quality of education is significantly better. If you now compare the 2023 data with 2024 and 2025 and see the precipitous drop of Nigeria going out,” he added.

  • “We mourn, but we also celebrate” — Yul Edochie breaks silence on Alex Ekubo’s death

    Veteran Nollywood actor Yul Edochie has reacted emotionally to the reported death of fellow actor Alex Ekubo, describing the news as painful and heartbreaking.

    The actor shared his reaction on social media, where he paid tribute to Alex Ekubo while reflecting on his personality, energy and impact within the entertainment industry.

    “A painful exit”

    Yul Edochie described the late actor as a close friend and brother whose presence brought joy to many people around him.

    According to him, Alex Ekubo had a unique personality that lit up every room and made him widely loved both within and outside Nollywood.

    He also described the actor’s passing as a painful exit that was difficult to accept.

    “We mourn and celebrate his life”

    While mourning the reported loss, Yul said the industry must also celebrate the life and legacy Alex Ekubo left behind.

    He described the late actor as a “great soul,” adding that his contributions to entertainment and public life would not be forgotten easily.

    The actor further stated that despite the pain surrounding the development, believers must still submit to the will of God.

    Reactions continue online

    Yul Edochie’s tribute has continued to attract emotional reactions online, with many fans and colleagues sympathising with the late actor’s family and loved ones.

    Since reports of Alex Ekubo’s death surfaced online, several Nollywood stars and fans have continued sharing tributes and emotional messages in his honour.

  • “They sent me transport fare” — Abducted UNIJOS graduate recounts 11-day ordeal in kidnappers’ den

    A graduate of the University of Jos, John Arum Azi, has recounted how suspected kidnappers allegedly lured him into captivity through a fake welding job offer after repeatedly contacting him and sending transport fare to convince him the opportunity was genuine.

    The victim narrated his experience after regaining freedom following 11 days in captivity.

    Azi shared the testimony during a church service in the Tudun Wada area of Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State on Sunday.

    How the job offer began

    According to him, the suspected kidnappers persistently contacted him with promises of welding work before eventually sending him transport money.

    “They kept calling me, asking me to come and work for them. They even sent transport money, so I believed it was a real job,” he said.

    Azi explained that he travelled from Jos to Zaria, Kaduna State, on April 11, 2026, believing he was heading for a genuine employment opportunity.

    However, shortly after arriving in Zaria and contacting the supposed employers, he was directed to board a motorcycle heading to a village.

    Journey into the forest

    The graduate admitted he became suspicious during the journey but ignored the warning signs because he desperately needed work.

    “I started having doubts, but I told myself maybe it was a connection that could help me. I did not know they were kidnappers,” he said.

    According to him, a man later approached him claiming to be the same individual who arranged the welding job.

    Azi said he was subsequently taken deep into a remote forest on a motorcycle, where another heavily armed man was already waiting.

    “I saw a gun I had never seen before in my life,” he recounted.

    The victim alleged that the kidnappers searched him thoroughly, seized his phone, work tools and belongings before forcing him to wear strange clothes and a face mask.

    Kidnappers demanded ₦30m ransom

    Azi further disclosed that he was moved through Giwa Local Government Area into forests in Zamfara State after several hours of travelling on motorcycles.

    “We spent almost six hours moving through the bush on motorcycles. There was no security anywhere,” he said.

    Upon arriving at the camp, he said his hands and legs were tied while the abductors contacted his family and demanded ₦30 million ransom.

    “I gave them my elder brother’s number. They called him and demanded ₦30 million,” he added.

    ‘They called me Pastor’

    The graduate also narrated how he was allegedly tortured and interrogated repeatedly about his religion.

    According to him, the kidnappers fired gunshots around the camp while questioning him, forcing him to initially deny being a Christian out of fear.

    “They were shooting guns everywhere and asking questions. Out of fear, I initially denied being a Christian because I thought they would kill me,” he said.

    However, he said severe beatings later forced him to cry out “Jesus,” exposing his faith to the abductors.

    “While they were beating me, I suddenly shouted ‘Jesus.’ That was when they discovered I was a Christian,” he said.

    Azi revealed that the kidnappers subsequently nicknamed him “Pastor” throughout his stay in captivity.

    Release after negotiations

    According to him, the abductors later reduced the ransom demand from ₦30 million to ₦6 million after negotiations with his family.

    However, he alleged that the kidnappers still delayed his release after receiving the money and demanded an additional ₦4 million.

    “They started beating me again and said my family should add another ₦4 million. At that point, I thought I would not survive,” he said.

    Azi said support from relatives, friends and sympathisers eventually secured his release after the traumatic ordeal.

  • IGP Disu bans POS operators near police stations nationwide over bribery concerns

    The Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, has ordered an immediate nationwide restriction barring Point-of-Sale (POS) operators from operating within 200 metres of police stations and formations across Nigeria.

    The directive was contained in an internal police wireless message circulated to commands and formations nationwide, with the police leadership warning that violations would attract disciplinary consequences for senior officers in affected jurisdictions.

    Police cite corruption concerns

    According to the internal communication, the Nigeria Police Force expressed concern over what it described as the “alarming proliferation” of POS operators around police facilities across the country.

    The police authorities stated that the increasing presence of POS agents near stations had become linked to complaints of bribery, illegal transactions and unofficial financial dealings involving officers and civilians.

    The message noted that the development was undermining ongoing reform efforts targeted at improving transparency, accountability and public confidence in policing.

    “The Force leadership observed with utmost dismay the growing trend of POS operators clustering around police formations,” part of the signal reportedly stated.

    200-metre restriction takes effect

    Following the development, the Force Headquarters directed that no POS operator should be allowed to function within a 200-metre radius of any police station, divisional headquarters or police formation nationwide.

    The directive also placed responsibility for compliance on senior officers, warning that Assistant Inspectors-General of Police, Commissioners of Police and heads of formations would be held “vicariously liable” for any breach recorded within their areas of supervision.

    The police authorities stressed that the order should be enforced immediately across all commands.

    Move linked to extortion allegations

    Security analysts have linked the new directive to longstanding allegations of extortion and unofficial cash collection involving some police personnel.

    Human rights groups and civil society organisations have repeatedly raised concerns over the close proximity of POS operators to police stations, arguing that some officers allegedly force suspects or civilians to make instant transfers or withdrawals through nearby agents during arrests or interrogations.

    The development is seen as part of broader efforts by the current police leadership to curb corruption allegations and restore public trust in the Nigeria Police Force.

  • “God will punish cancer” — Blessing CEO mourns Alex Ekubo after actor’s death

    Controversial relationship commentator, Blessing CEO, has reacted emotionally to the reported death of popular Nollywood actor Alex Ekubo, who allegedly passed away after battling stage 4 liver cancer.

    Reports making rounds online claimed the actor died in a Lagos hospital on Monday after quietly battling the illness for several months.

    The development has continued to trigger emotional reactions across social media, with fans, colleagues and celebrities mourning the actor’s reported passing.

    Blessing CEO reacts

    Reacting via her Instagram page, Blessing CEO shared a photo of the late actor while expressing sadness over his death.

    “God will punish cancer. We waited for u to show up. You fought silently. Rest in peace,” she wrote.

    Her post quickly attracted reactions from followers, with many sympathising with the late actor and describing his reported death as heartbreaking.

    Cancer controversy resurfaces

    Blessing CEO’s reaction also reignited conversations surrounding the controversy that trailed her own cancer claims earlier this year.

    Recall that in March 2026, the social media personality publicly solicited financial support online, claiming she was undergoing chemotherapy treatment for stage 4 breast cancer.

    However, the claim later generated backlash after the Nigerian Medical Association accused her of allegedly altering another patient’s medical report from Xinus Medical Diagnostics.

    The medical document, reportedly signed by consultant pathologist Dr O.A. Odigwe, became a major topic online as many questioned its authenticity.

    VeryDarkMan petitioned police

    Amid the controversy, social media critic VeryDarkMan also submitted a petition approved by the Inspector-General of Police, requesting an investigation into the matter.

    Meanwhile, reactions to Alex Ekubo’s reported death have continued to dominate conversations online, with many Nigerians discussing cancer awareness, silent health battles and the emotional toll terminal illnesses place on patients and families.

  • Tinubu Hails $4.7bn France-Nigeria Trade Surge, Says Partnership Enters “Execution Phase” at Nairobi Summit

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has welcomed the outcome of the 10th France-Nigeria Business Council meeting, saying the partnership between both countries has now moved from discussion to full implementation.

    The meeting was held at the Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi, Kenya, where top government officials and leading global business figures reviewed ongoing investments and new collaboration frameworks between Nigeria and France.

    Trade Hits $4.7bn As Tinubu Pushes Investment Drive

    President Tinubu noted that trade between Nigeria and France reached $4.7 billion in 2025, describing Nigeria as the leading destination for French investment in sub-Saharan Africa.

    He said the growing economic ties must now translate into jobs, industrial expansion, infrastructure development and wider prosperity for both nations.

    The meeting had in attendance Nigeria’s Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Jumoke Oduwole, and France’s Minister Delegate, Nicolas Forissier, alongside top private sector leaders from both countries.

    Dangote, Elumelu, Others Attend High-Level Meeting

    The session also brought together major business leaders including Aliko Dangote, Tony Elumelu, and other prominent investors, alongside international partners such as Patrick Pouyanné of TotalEnergies and representatives of CMA CGM, Danone and Accor.

    President Tinubu commended the Chairman of the France-Nigeria Business Council, Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, for convening what he described as a productive session focused on real economic delivery.

    Accor–Shoreline Deal Highlights New Investment Push

    A key highlight of the meeting was the signing of an agreement between Accor and Shoreline Group for Nigeria’s first national hotel platform.

    The President described the development as a strong vote of confidence in Nigeria’s hospitality, tourism and services sector, noting that it reflects rising investor confidence in ongoing reforms.

    ‘Nigeria Is Ready For Serious Economic Execution’ — Tinubu

    Tinubu said Nigeria and France are no longer operating at the level of goodwill exchanges but are now focused on measurable economic outcomes.

    “This is the partnership Nigeria is ready for. We are ready for investment that builds, capital that produces, and enterprise that creates jobs,” he said.

    He added that the next phase of Africa-Europe relations would be defined by tangible projects in energy, agriculture, technology, logistics and industrial production.

    Reform Agenda Drives Confidence

    The President further assured investors that his administration would continue strengthening the business environment, deepening reforms and supporting credible investment inflows into the country.

    According to him, the goal is to position Nigeria as a stable and competitive economy capable of attracting long-term capital.

  • NDC Unveils Timetable, Nomination Fees For 2027 Primaries Ahead Of General Elections

    The Nigeria Democratic Congress has officially released its timetable for the sale of Expression of Interest and Nomination Forms ahead of the 2027 general elections, outlining screening dates, primary election schedules and nomination fees for aspirants across the country.

    The party disclosed the details in a press release issued on May 12, 2026, as part of early preparations for the next election cycle.

    Sale Of Forms Begins May 13

    According to the timetable released by the party, the sale of Expression of Interest Forms will commence on Wednesday, May 13, and end on Monday, May 18, 2026.

    The party also scheduled screening and interviews for aspirants between Tuesday, May 19, and Saturday, May 21, while the sale of Nomination Forms will take place from Thursday, May 21, to Saturday, May 23.

    Completed nomination forms are expected to be submitted on or before Monday, May 26, while appeals arising from the screening exercise will be handled between May 25 and May 26.

    Presidential Primary Fixed For May 29

    The NDC further announced that primary elections for different elective positions would hold between Wednesday, May 27, and Thursday, May 28, in Abuja.

    The party fixed its presidential primary election for Friday, May 29, 2026, also in Abuja.

    According to the party, the screening process will come before the purchase of full nomination forms to reduce financial losses for aspirants who may later be disqualified.

    Breakdown Of Nomination Fees

    The party released different fees for aspirants seeking elective positions at both state and national levels.

    For State House of Assembly aspirants, the Expression of Interest Form costs ₦1 million, while the Nomination Form costs ₦1.5 million.

    House of Representatives aspirants are expected to pay ₦2 million for the Expression of Interest Form and ₦4 million for the Nomination Form.

    Senate aspirants will pay ₦3 million and ₦5 million respectively, while governorship aspirants are expected to pay ₦10 million and ₦20 million.

    For the presidency, the Expression of Interest Form was pegged at ₦20 million, while the Nomination Form costs ₦40 million.

    Women, PWDs Get Discounts

    One of the major highlights of the announcement is the party’s discount structure for women and persons with disabilities.

    The NDC disclosed that female aspirants would enjoy a 50 per cent discount across all categories, while persons with disabilities would receive a 25 per cent reduction.

    The party said the move reflects its commitment to inclusivity and broader political participation.

    Party Promises Transparency

    According to the statement signed by National Chairman Sen. Moses Cleopas Zuwohge and Secretary Barr. Ikenna Morgan Enekwu, aspirants will be required to submit credentials and supporting documents during the screening process.

    The party also stated that its primaries would follow internal democratic procedures, including an “open secret ballot” system guided by party rules and code of conduct.

    Mixed Reactions Trail Announcement

    The announcement has generated reactions on social media, with many users praising the relatively lower fees compared to what major political parties charged in previous election cycles.

    Some supporters described the structure as progressive, especially the discounts for women and persons with disabilities.

    However, concerns were also raised over issues including logo discrepancies allegedly linked to INEC records, fears of infiltration by defectors from other political parties, and demands for transparent membership verification.

    Others questioned whether the party would maintain internal democracy and avoid alleged backdoor political arrangements ahead of 2027.

  • Alexx Ekubo: Everything To Know About The Late Nollywood Star Who Rose From Mr Nigeria To Movie Fame

    Popular Nollywood actor Alexx Ekubo was one of the most recognisable faces in Nigeria’s entertainment industry, known for his performances in movies, television productions, comedy skits and humanitarian activities.

    The actor reportedly died at the age of 40 after an alleged battle with stage 4 liver cancer, a development that has left many fans and colleagues in shock.

    Early Life And Background

    Alexx Ekubo was born on April 10, 1986, in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, but hailed from Arochukwu in Abia State.

    Known for his tall frame and charismatic personality, he was fluent in English, Igbo and Hausa languages.

    Before his rise to fame in Nollywood, he gained public attention after emerging first runner-up at the Mr Nigeria competition in 2010, a breakthrough that opened doors for him in the entertainment industry.

    Education Journey

    The late actor attended Federal Government College, Daura, in Katsina State for his secondary school education.

    He later studied Law at the University of Calabar before eventually obtaining a degree in Mass Communication from Calabar Polytechnic.

    Rise In Nollywood

    Alexx Ekubo began acting professionally in the early 2010s and quickly became one of the most sought-after actors in Nollywood.

    His charming screen presence and versatility helped him land roles in several successful movies and television productions.

    Some of the popular movies he featured in include:

    • Lagos Cougars
    • Weekend Getaway
    • In The Cupboard
    • Dream Walker
    • Blazing Heart
    • The First Lady
    • Hire A Woman
    • Merry Men: The Real Yoruba Demons
    • Sugar Rush
    • Fate of Alakada

    Aside from acting, he also built a strong reputation as a television personality, event host, model and brand ambassador.

    Humanitarian Activities And Recognition

    Beyond entertainment, Alexx Ekubo was actively involved in charity and humanitarian causes.

    In 2020, he was inducted into the Most Influential People of African Descent/United Nations Top 100 Under 40 Hall of Fame in recognition of his impact and achievements.

    He also received a Certificate of Excellence from Sapio Club SDG for his contributions to African entertainment and humanitarian service.

    In 2021, he was honoured with the Nigerian National Award of Excellence as the Global Social Giving Actor of the Year.

    That same year, he received an honorary doctorate degree in Arts and Culture from Institut Supérieur de Communication et de Gestion University in Cotonou, Benin Republic.

    Awards And Achievements

    Over the years, the actor received several local and international recognitions for his contributions to Nollywood.

    Some of his awards include:

    • BEFFTA Award (London) – Nollywood Rising Star (2014)
    • Screen Nation Film and TV Award – Favourite Male African International Emerging Screen Talent (2014)
    • Nigerian Teen Choice Award – Outstanding TV Personality (2015)
    • Best of Nollywood Award – Best Actor of the Year (2016)
    • Nigerian Model Achievers Award – Model Actor of the Year (2016)
    • Special Recognition Award from the First Lady of Nigeria (2018)
    • Best of Nollywood Award – Best Lead Actor (2022)
    • Toronto International Nollywood Film Festival – Best Actor of the Year (2022)
    • Rotary International District 9142 – Rotary Youth Ambassador of the Year (2023)

    Private Life Away From The Spotlight

    Despite his celebrity status, Alexx Ekubo largely kept his personal life away from public scrutiny.

    He remained active in entertainment, social events, endorsements and philanthropic projects while maintaining a relatively private lifestyle outside the spotlight.

    His reported passing has continued to generate tributes across Nigeria’s entertainment industry, with fans and colleagues reflecting on his legacy and impact on Nollywood.

  • “I Really Tried To Reach You” — Funke Akindele Breaks Down Over Alexx Ekubo’s Reported Death

    Popular Nollywood actress and filmmaker Funke Akindele has reacted emotionally to the reported death of fellow actor Alexx Ekubo, revealing that she repeatedly tried to see and speak with him before his passing.

    The actress shared the tribute on her Instagram page while reflecting on their final conversations and the unanswered messages she sent to him.

    “You Kept Saying You Were Fine”

    Funke Akindele disclosed that she constantly checked on the actor through calls, chats and voice notes, but he repeatedly assured her that he was okay.

    “I really tried to reach out to see you one more time, but guess you knew best. May your kind soul rest in peace Alex,” she wrote.

    In another emotional message, the actress admitted she was devastated after realising the reunion they discussed would never happen.

    “It’s so hard. Chai. Going through all the messages I sent. You kept telling me you are fine. I kept sending voice notes. Alex. Chai. God knows best. I really wanted to see you!!! You said we will see soon. You ghosted me. Chai. Rest well ore mi,” she added.

    Fans React To Emotional Tribute

    Her tribute quickly sparked emotional reactions online, with many fans sympathising with the actress and describing the message as painful and heartfelt.

    Several Nigerians flooded social media with prayers and condolences, while others said the post reflected the hidden struggles many people quietly battle behind closed doors.

    The tribute has also reignited conversations around Alexx Ekubo’s disappearance from social media months before reports of his death surfaced online.

    Tributes Continue Pouring In

    Since news of the actor’s reported passing emerged, colleagues, fans and public figures within the entertainment industry have continued to mourn him online.

    Alexx Ekubo was widely recognised for his roles in Nollywood films, television productions and comedy projects, becoming one of the most familiar faces in the Nigerian movie industry.