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  • Abin Al’ajabin Zazzau Breaks Silence on Humiliation, Vows Reform Bid for Kaduna Constituency Seat

    A 30-year-old House of Representatives aspirant from Kaduna State, Abin Al’ajabin Zazzau, has spoken out about what he described as years of public humiliation and personal attacks linked to his appearance and political ambition ahead of the 2027 elections.

    The aspirant, who is contesting for the Sabon Gari/Fada Federal Constituency seat, made the remarks in an interview with RFI Hausa, where he detailed emotional and social challenges he says he has endured over time.

    “Humiliated because of how I was created”

    Zazzau said he has faced repeated insults directed at him and his family, insisting that much of the criticism was rooted in prejudice over his physical appearance.

    “For political reasons, my dignity has been violated. I have been humiliated and deprived because of the creation Allah made for me,” he said.

    “There is nothing people have not done to me. I have been insulted, humiliated, disgraced, and even my parents have been insulted.”

    He added that the attacks have followed him across political and social spaces, making participation in public life difficult.

    Push for political reform in Sabon Gari

    Despite the backlash, Zazzau said he remains committed to his ambition, stressing that his motivation is to reform Sabon Gari and expand opportunities for young people.

    “I decided to contest because I want to bring youths out of the groups and gangs they are involved in,” he said.

    He argued that the constituency needs empowerment-driven leadership rather than dependency-based politics.

    “Our people are not asking for handouts. They want to be shown how to earn a living, not just given fish but taught how to fish,” he said.

    Concerns over representation and development

    Zazzau also raised concerns about what he described as long-standing underdevelopment in Sabon Gari Federal Constituency despite its economic importance to Kaduna State.

    He noted that the area hosts major institutions and industries, yet still struggles with basic infrastructure and effective political representation.

    “Sabon Gari is a very important commercial and industrial area in Nigeria, yet development has not reached many places,” he said.

    “So why shouldn’t we be given proper representation?”

    Political background and 2023 attempt

    The aspirant revealed that he had previously contested for the same seat in 2023 but stepped down after political consultations and appeals from stakeholders.

    He said he later supported the eventual winner at the time due to political considerations and circumstances surrounding the election cycle.

    The development adds another layer to early political realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections, as aspirants begin to re-engage constituencies across the country.

  • NERC Considers Electricity Tariff Hike as Nigerians Face Rising Cost of Power

    The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has indicated that it is considering a further upward review of electricity tariffs, a move aimed at improving service delivery across the country’s power sector.

    The commission made the disclosure in a post shared on its official X account on Monday, noting that the review is part of ongoing efforts to enhance electricity supply and customer experience.

    NERC defends possible tariff adjustment

    According to the statement, the proposed adjustment is intended to improve quality of service while ensuring consumers receive more reliable electricity supply.

    “You deserve satisfaction and accurate information on the increase. There is no issue of hidden pricing or cutting off your power arbitrarily,” NERC stated.

    The regulator added that the objective is to bring electricity tariffs closer to actual cost-reflective levels while maintaining consumer protection mechanisms.

    “We are bringing the electricity tariff closer to you to improve your quality of life, and we assure you of continued protection of your rights every day,” the commission said.

    Push for cost-reflective tariffs amid system challenges

    NERC explained that the broader goal is to ensure access to affordable and reliable electricity while addressing long-standing inefficiencies in the sector.

    It also highlighted concerns around the current payment structure, describing it as a “one-size-fits-all system” that does not fully reflect consumption patterns or service realities.

    The commission further stated its commitment to resolving customer complaints and safeguarding consumer rights as reforms continue.

    Background of previous tariff hikes

    The latest development comes after a major electricity tariff increase in April 2024, when Band A customers saw rates rise from about ₦68 per kWh to ₦225 per kWh.

    This affected consumers receiving at least 20 hours of electricity supply daily, representing roughly 15 per cent of users.

    The rate was later adjusted to ₦206.80 per kWh in May 2024, before some Distribution Companies (DisCos) increased it again to ₦209.50 per kWh in July 2024.

    Despite these adjustments, many consumers have continued to complain that they are not receiving power supply that matches the tariff charged.

    Labour raises concerns over cost of living

    The proposed tariff review comes at a time of growing economic pressure on households, with rising inflation affecting food, transport, and housing costs.

    The President of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Joe Ajaero, recently warned that even high-income earners could struggle under current economic conditions if the naira continues to lose value.

    He stressed that workers are more concerned about purchasing power than nominal salary figures.

    “Even if Nigerian workers earn ₦1 million, it will not be meaningful if the naira has no value,” Ajaero said.

    As discussions around electricity pricing continue, stakeholders say the outcome could further shape the cost of living landscape in Nigeria in the coming months.

  • “Don’t Chew Gum In Church, You’re Not A Goat” – Pastor David Obiyeome Sparks Reactions Over Strict Church Rules

    Founder of Salvation Ministries, Pastor David Obiyeome, has sparked reactions online after issuing strict instructions on how church members should conduct themselves during worship services.

    A viral video circulating on X showed the clergyman cautioning worshippers against chewing gum, drinking water, or using mobile phones inside the church auditorium.

    Pastor warns members against casual behaviour in church

    Speaking during a church service, Pastor Obiyeome insisted that worshippers must show reverence while inside the church environment.

    “Don’t chew gum when you’re in church, you’re not a goat. Don’t drink water in church. If you want to drink water, go outside. Don’t use phone at all in church,” he said.

    The pastor further stated that the church should not be treated casually, adding that some behaviours displayed during services were inappropriate.

    “This is not a Pentecostal church, only Pentecostal churches allow water inside church,” he added.

    Video triggers mixed reactions online

    The comments have since generated debate across social media platforms, with many Nigerians sharing different opinions on the pastor’s remarks.

    While some users agreed with his message about discipline and respect during worship, others argued that some of the restrictions appeared too harsh for modern church settings.

    One user wrote, “He made his point, but the delivery wasn’t right.”

    Another commented, “Some of these rules are too extreme for modern church settings.”

    Others defended the pastor, insisting that churches should maintain order and seriousness during services.

  • Carter Efe Blasts Jarvis During Livestream, Makes Claims About Her Past Relationships

    Nigerian streamer and content creator Carter Efe has stirred controversy online after launching into a heated outburst directed at fellow content creator Jarvis during a livestream.

    The viral clip, which has been circulating across social media platforms, captured Carter Efe accusing Jarvis of repeatedly disrespecting him publicly during livestream sessions.

    Carter Efe accuses Jarvis of insults

    During the livestream, Carter Efe alleged that Jarvis had insulted both him and his child online, a situation he claimed fueled his anger.

    The streamer also made claims about her alleged past relationships while reacting emotionally during the exchange.

    According to him, Jarvis had allegedly dated several Abuja-based men, mentioning names of people he claimed to know personally.

    “You no know say we sabi say Jarvis don date all the whole Abuja boys finish… if you see me for livestream she go dey insult me and my pikin for livestream,” he said during the rant.

    Video sparks mixed reactions online

    The video has since generated reactions online, with social media users divided over the heated exchange between both creators.

    While some users criticised Carter Efe for making personal allegations publicly, others argued that online disputes among content creators have become increasingly toxic.

    Others also questioned why personal disagreements between influencers frequently escalate during livestream sessions watched by thousands of fans.

    Neither Jarvis nor her management team had officially responded to the claims at the time of filing this report.

  • “I Wore Suits To Look Rich While Earning ₦160k” – Frank Edoho Opens Up On WWTBAM Struggles

    Popular Nigerian media personality Frank Edoho has opened up about his humble beginnings in television, revealing that he earned just ₦160,000 monthly during his early years as host of the hit game show Who Wants to Be a Millionaire.

    The veteran presenter shared the experience while speaking during a seminar, where he reflected on the pressure of maintaining a successful public image despite struggling financially behind the scenes.

    Frank Edoho says appearances were deceiving

    According to Edoho, many Nigerians assumed he was wealthy because of how he appeared on television every week.

    He explained that he intentionally dressed sharply and carried himself confidently in public, even though his salary at the time was far from what people imagined.

    “My first two years’ salary at the ‘Who Wants To Be A Millionaire’ show was ₦160k monthly, but I had to put on a suit and act like I owned all the money,” he said.

    The TV host noted that image played a major role in the entertainment industry, forcing him to constantly maintain a polished appearance.

    MTN deal changed everything

    Edoho also recalled how things eventually changed financially after telecommunications giant MTN Nigeria became involved with the show.

    According to him, he decided to negotiate a better deal with the owner of the programme after realising the show’s growing success and popularity.

    “But when MTN came on, I just said let me just give a figure to my boss, the owner of the show. If I should mention it, you all will suffocate, and he was like, ‘Okay, we’ll give you 3 months backpay,’” he added.

    He described the moment as a major turning point in his career and financial journey.

    Social media users react

    Edoho’s revelation sparked reactions online, with many Nigerians discussing how celebrities often appear wealthier than they truly are during the early stages of their careers.

    Some users praised his consistency and patience, while others said his story reflected the hidden struggles many entertainers face before achieving success.

    One user wrote, “He stayed consistent and it finally paid off.”

    Another added, “TV made us think every celebrity was already rich.”

     

  • FG Moves Closer to Fresh $1.25bn World Bank Loan for Reforms, Job Creation

    The Federal Government has intensified discussions with the World Bank over a fresh $1.25 billion loan facility targeted at supporting economic reforms, job creation, and business competitiveness in Nigeria.

    According to a World Bank document titled Nigeria Actions for Investment and Jobs Acceleration, the proposed loan has reached an advanced stage and is expected to be presented for approval on June 26, 2026.

    The facility has reportedly moved beyond the concept and appraisal phases within the World Bank’s project cycle.

    Loan targets reforms, digital access, competitiveness

    If approved, the proposed facility will become one of Nigeria’s largest recent World Bank loans, second only to the $1.5 billion Reforms for Economic Stabilisation to Enable Transformation Development Policy Financing approved in June 2024.

    The Federal Republic of Nigeria is listed as the borrower, while the Federal Ministry of Finance will serve as the implementing agency.

    According to the World Bank, the funding is expected to support Nigeria’s reform efforts in key sectors.

    “The loan is designed to support the government’s efforts to expand access to finance, digital, and electricity services, and strengthen competitiveness through tax, trade, and agriculture reforms,” the document stated.

    Nigeria’s debt profile under focus

    Nigeria’s external debt stood at $51.86 billion as of December 31, 2025, while the country’s total public debt is currently estimated at $110.97 billion.

    The proposed loan is presently at the “decision meeting” stage within the World Bank approval process.

    This stage comes after appraisal and negotiations have been concluded, with financing terms, policy commitments, and reform conditions reportedly agreed in principle.

    The World Bank explained that the project had already passed important internal reviews and is moving toward final consideration by the Board of Executive Directors.

    “The review did authorise the team to appraise and negotiate,” the document noted.

    World Bank approved over $9bn for Nigeria since 2023

    Between June 2023 and May 2026, the World Bank approved about $9.35 billion in loans and credits for Nigeria across different sectors.

    The approvals covered power, healthcare, agriculture, education, renewable energy, MSME financing, social protection, and economic reform programmes.

    Among the major approvals were the $2.25 billion RESET and ARMOR reform financing package approved in June 2024, alongside $1.57 billion for HOPE and SPIN programmes in September 2024.

    Another $1.08 billion was approved in March 2025 for education and resilience projects.

    FG warns against delays in loan approvals

    The development comes shortly after the Accountant-General of the Federation, Dr Shamseldeen Ogunjimi, warned that Nigeria could reject World Bank loan arrangements if approval and disbursement delays continue.

    Speaking during a recent meeting with a World Bank delegation in Abuja, Ogunjimi stressed that Nigeria expects faster processing timelines because the facilities are loans and not grants.

    “If approvals take more than six months, the Nigerian Government may no longer honour such arrangements,” he stated.

    He added that prolonged delays could affect project implementation and broader development goals.

    The Accountant-General also urged the World Bank to speed up approval and disbursement processes to support Nigeria’s economic priorities and reform programmes.

  • Tinubu Heads to Nairobi Summit to Push Nigeria’s Economic Reforms, Investment Drive

    The Presidency has said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s participation at the 2026 Africa-France Summit in Nairobi, Kenya, is focused on advancing Nigeria’s economic reform agenda and strengthening investment partnerships across Africa.

    Presidential spokesperson Daniel Bwala disclosed this while speaking with journalists on the sidelines of the summit in Nairobi, describing the gathering as strategically important for Nigeria and the continent.

    Presidency links summit agenda to Renewed Hope reforms

    According to Bwala, the summit comes at a period when many African nations are implementing reforms aimed at creating stronger investment climates and improving long-term economic growth.

    He explained that President Tinubu considers the summit important because six out of the seven major discussion areas align with the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

    The thematic areas include international financial restructuring, agriculture, artificial intelligence, blue economy, digital transformation, and broader economic reforms.

    “For us as a country and of course the leading country in Africa in many respects, the President deems it a strategic meeting because six of the seven thematic areas happen to fall in line with the Renewed Hope policy programmes we started implementing from day one,” Bwala said.

    Tinubu to showcase Nigeria’s economic reforms

    The presidential spokesman pointed to Nigeria’s ongoing financial reforms, including the foreign exchange market unification policy, as part of measures designed to stabilise the economy and restore investor confidence.

    “Take for example international financial restructuring, we have seen the restructuring taking place in Nigeria which has given confidence in the naira,” he stated.

    Bwala also highlighted Nigeria’s growing use of artificial intelligence and digital technology, stressing that the country’s youthful population provides opportunities for innovation-driven economic expansion.

    On agriculture, he noted that Nigeria’s vast arable land makes the country a strong destination for food production and agro-industrial investments.

    Africa should reduce dependence on external support — Presidency

    According to Bwala, one of the major goals of the summit is to encourage African countries to maximise their own resources and reduce dependence on foreign assistance.

    “These are areas they intend to focus on and the whole concept of the summit is to create the sense that Africa by itself can create the economy it deserves rather than this dependency on the rest of the world,” he said.

    He disclosed that Tinubu is expected to participate in three plenary sessions during the summit, where he will present Nigeria’s experiences in finance, agriculture, and the blue economy.

    Bwala added that the President’s engagements would focus on creating mutually beneficial investments capable of generating sustainable returns while boosting economic development across Africa.

    “Not just bringing investment to Nigeria or Africa, but participating in investments that guarantee returns on investment,” he explained.

    Tinubu expected at Africa CEO Forum in Kigali

    The Presidency further revealed that Tinubu will proceed to Kigali, Rwanda, later this week to attend the Africa CEO Forum as part of efforts to deepen economic partnerships across the continent.

    “The President intends to move to Kigali to continue the conversation with African CEOs. It is strategic, important, and most of the thematic areas already align with what we are doing in Nigeria,” Bwala added.

    The 2026 Africa-France Summit is themed “Africa Forward: Africa-France Partnerships for Innovation and Growth” and is expected to focus on climate action, industrialisation, energy transition, digital economy reforms, and global financial restructuring.

  • Ilebaye’s Mother Fires Back at Father, Says Reality Star Spent Over ₦30m on His Medical Care

    Ms Lami Calista, mother of former Big Brother Naija winner Ilebaye Odiniya, has responded to allegations made by the reality star’s father, Emmanuel Odiniya, over claims involving financial support and family disputes.

    The reaction follows a viral voice recording in which Mr Odiniya accused Ilebaye of refusing to support him financially despite winning ₦120 million after emerging winner of BBNaija All Stars in 2023.

    Mother denies financial neglect claims

    Speaking during an interview with LIB, Ms Lami dismissed the accusations and insisted that Ilebaye spent millions supporting her father’s medical treatment, including trips to India.

    According to her, the conflict allegedly started after the reality star refused to hand over all her prize money and declined to give her father ₦50 million.

    “When Ilebaye came out of the house, she gave the father ₦7 million when he was going for treatment in India. Even last year, she gave him ₦5 million again,” she said.

    She further alleged that the father later demanded more money, leading Ilebaye to send an additional ₦3 million apart from monthly support.

    “That is aside the ₦1 million she gives to him,” she added.

    Claims over younger brother addressed

    Ms Lami also denied allegations that Ilebaye introduced her younger brother to drugs, describing the accusation as false and damaging.

    According to her, the issue involved an empty shisha pen allegedly found in Ilebaye’s room, which the boy later took to school out of curiosity.

    She stated that school authorities only warned him after the matter was clarified and denied reports that he was expelled.

    “Is Ilebaye stupid to give a 14-year-old child drugs?” she questioned.

    Denies cosmetic surgery allegation

    Reacting to claims that the BBNaija star secretly underwent cosmetic surgery, Ms Lami also dismissed the allegation.

    “It is a lie. Look at her old picture and look at her present picture, does it look different?” she said.

    She accused Ilebaye’s father of attempting to damage the reality star’s public image following the recent family controversy.

    Emotional toll on reality star

    Speaking further, Ms Lami said the allegations have deeply affected her daughter emotionally, especially claims linking her to drugs.

    “To accuse someone of taking drugs, do you know the implication?” she asked.

    “She is stubborn, yes, but she is not one to take drugs.”

    The controversy surrounding Ilebaye and her family has continued to generate widespread reactions across social media, with Nigerians divided over the claims and counterclaims from both parents.

  • Adeleke Deposes Osun Monarch Jailed in US Over Fraud Conviction

    Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has officially deposed the Apetu of Ipetumodu, Oba Joseph Oloyede, following his conviction and imprisonment in the United States over fraud-related offences.

    The monarch was convicted by a US District Court in the Northern District of Ohio on August 26, 2025, after pleading guilty to tax fraud charges and was subsequently sentenced to 56 months in prison.

    Adeleke acts after receiving court judgement

    The Osun State Government confirmed the monarch’s removal in a statement issued on Monday by the governor’s spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed.

    According to the statement, the decision followed the receipt of the Certified True Copy of the judgement delivered by the Ohio court.

    “The governor’s decision followed the receipt of the Certified True Copy of the Ohio court judgement which convicted the monarch,” the statement read.

    The government explained that the Osun State Executive Council had earlier directed the Ministry of Local Government to obtain the certified judgement before taking official action.

    Royal stool declared vacant

    Governor Adeleke stated that the deposition became necessary to protect the integrity and honour of the traditional institution.

    “In the Deposition Order signed by His Excellency on 7th May, 2026, the action was predicated on the need to maintain peace, order and good government as well as preserve the honour and integrity of the royal stool,” the statement added.

    The government also said the monarch’s conviction and public trial had brought the traditional stool into disrepute.

    “The fraudulent conduct of Oba Joseph Oloyede as found by the US court and which he pleaded guilty to and his public trial and conviction have brought the institution of Obaship and the stool of Apetumodu of Ipetumodu to disrepute and public odium,” the statement noted.

    Authorities confirmed that the stool of the Apetu of Ipetumodu has now been declared vacant pending the selection of a new monarch.

    Residents had earlier protested

    The development follows earlier protests in Ipetumodu, where residents reportedly demanded the monarch’s removal after news of his conviction surfaced online.

    Governor Adeleke appealed to indigenes of the community to remain peaceful and law-abiding as the process of selecting a new traditional ruler begins.

  • “I’ll gladly work with him” — Kwankwaso opens up on becoming Peter Obi’s running mate in 2027

    Former Kano State governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso has declared that he would willingly serve as Peter Obi’s running mate ahead of the 2027 presidential election if chosen by the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).

    Kwankwaso made the disclosure during an interview on Arise Television’s Prime Time programme while speaking on ongoing political realignments ahead of the next general election.

    Kwankwaso speaks on Obi alliance

    According to the former governor, he would gladly collaborate with Obi if the party eventually settles for the former Labour Party presidential candidate as its presidential flag bearer.

    He stated that both leaders have already reached a common understanding on the need to tackle insecurity and stabilise the country.

    “We have agreed to tackle the issue of insecurity head-on to ensure there is peace and stability in this country,” Kwankwaso said.

    Ready to accept VP role

    Speaking further, Kwankwaso said he would not hesitate to accept a vice-presidential slot if the party leadership decides on such an arrangement.

    “If the party decides that I should be the running mate of any candidate from the south under the circumstances, I’d be happy to work together with him,” he stated.

    The former Kano governor also described a possible Obi-Kwankwaso alliance as one of the strongest political combinations ahead of the 2027 elections.

    “Personally, I cannot remember any better combination, no matter how much time is given to find those who can beat us in terms of doing the right thing for this country,” he added.

    Political realignments intensify ahead of 2027

    The development comes amid increasing political movements and coalition talks ahead of the 2027 general election.

    Both Kwankwaso and Peter Obi were recently linked with the Nigeria Democratic Congress after previously being associated with the African Democratic Congress.

    The reported alliance has continued to generate conversations within Nigeria’s political space, especially among opposition supporters seeking a stronger coalition ahead of the next presidential election.