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  • Bello El-Rufai Dumps APC for ADC as Reps Announce Fresh Wave of Defections

    Bello El-Rufai, son of former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai, has defected from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

    The development was formally announced on Thursday during plenary at the House of Representatives.

    Speaker reads defection letters

    Speaker Abbas Tajudeen disclosed that Bello El-Rufai joined the ADC alongside two lawmakers from Kaduna State.

    They include Reps Umar Ajilo and Suleiman Yahaya Richifa, who defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

    The announcements were made as part of official communications at the resumption of plenary.

    More lawmakers switch parties

    The Speaker also confirmed the defection of Kamilu Ado, a Kano lawmaker, from the ADC to the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC).

    Similarly, Rep Joshua Obika, representing AMAC/Bwari Federal Constituency in the FCT, resigned from the APC and joined the NDC.

    Reasons behind defections

    The lawmakers cited internal crises and uncertainty within their former parties as key reasons for their decisions.

    The latest moves reflect ongoing political realignments ahead of future elections, with shifting alliances across major parties.

  • Tinubu Approves Fani-Kayode’s Redeployment to South Africa After Germany Posting Drama

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the redeployment of former Aviation Minister, Femi Fani-Kayode, as Nigeria’s ambassador-designate to South Africa.

    The development follows earlier reports linking his initial posting to Germany with diplomatic concerns.

    Fani-Kayode counters rejection claims

    In a post shared on his X handle, Fani-Kayode dismissed claims that he was rejected by the German government.

    He insisted that he personally declined the Germany posting and formally requested a redeployment.

    “It gives me pleasure to announce that Mr. President has approved my posting as Nigeria’s Ambassador-Designate to South Africa,” he wrote.

    Why he chose South Africa

    Fani-Kayode explained that his decision was based on personal preference and strategic considerations.

    According to him, he had spent most of his life in Europe and preferred a new diplomatic experience in Africa.

    “I was not comfortable with Germany for personal reasons and would rather serve in South Africa, a country I have never been to and have great interest in,” he stated.

    He also cited shared political and ideological alignment with South Africa, as well as its economic position on the continent.

    Approval process revealed

    The former minister said he submitted a formal request for redeployment to the then Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar.

    He noted that the minister reviewed his reasons and forwarded the request to the president, who approved it.

    Background and political ties

    Fani-Kayode served as Minister of Aviation under former President Olusegun Obasanjo and has remained a vocal supporter of Tinubu.

    He was previously prosecuted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission over forgery-related charges but was later discharged and acquitted by a Lagos court.

  • Jonathan Speaks on 2027 Presidency After Supporters Storm Abuja Office

    Former President Goodluck Jonathan has said he will take time to consult before deciding whether to contest the 2027 presidential election, following fresh calls for his return to active politics.

    He spoke on Thursday in Abuja after a group of supporters visited his office, urging him to join the race ahead of the next general elections.

    Pressure Mounts as Supporters Make Case

    The supporters gathered at Jonathan’s office to persuade him to re-enter the political arena, pointing to his experience and past contributions to democratic growth in Nigeria and across Africa.

    They insisted that his leadership record and global democratic engagements make him a strong candidate for 2027.

    “Presidential Race Is Not a Game”

    Responding to the calls, Jonathan acknowledged the appeal but stressed that running for president requires serious reflection.

    “Presidential race is not a computer game, but I heard you, and I will consult widely,” he said.

    He also appreciated the group for the visit, noting that their concerns had been clearly received.

    Focus on Patriotism and National Stability

    Jonathan used the moment to highlight the role of patriotism in nation-building, warning against actions that undermine national interest.

    “It’s only patriotic citizens that build their nations. Unpatriotic citizens will destroy their nation and take the money elsewhere,” he said.

    He stressed that Nigeria’s progress depends on citizens who are committed to protecting and developing the country.

    Peace, Credible Elections Top Priority

    The former President identified peace as Nigeria’s most urgent need, especially as the country prepares for future elections.

    “The key thing we need in this country is peace,” he said, urging young Nigerians to promote unity and stability.

    He added that credible elections remain critical, warning that flawed processes could discourage capable individuals from entering politics.

    “Because if we don’t have peaceful and credible elections, most good citizens will not want to get involved in politics,” Jonathan stated.

    Youth Participation in Democracy

    Jonathan called on Nigerian youths to stay actively engaged in the electoral process, particularly through voting.

    He said young people hold the key to shaping the country’s political future and must not withdraw from democratic participation.

    “You as young people must continue to be fully involved in the electoral processes, especially your right to vote,” he said.

    Lessons from Africa and 2015 Transition

    Drawing from his post-presidency role, Jonathan noted that he has observed elections in over 14 African countries, reinforcing the importance of peaceful democratic transitions.

    He also referenced Nigeria’s 2015 election, where he lost to former President Muhammadu Buhari, marking the first time an incumbent president conceded defeat.

    The peaceful handover of power on May 29, 2015, remains a defining moment in Nigeria’s democratic history.

    Looking Ahead to Future Generations

    Jonathan emphasised the need to build a Nigeria that serves future generations, urging leaders and citizens to think beyond immediate gains.

    He said the country must prioritise long-term development to secure a better future for younger Nigerians and generations to come.

  • Charly Boy Defends 2014 Clash With Okorocha, Says “I Had to Send Him Out”

    Veteran entertainer Charly Boy has defended his controversial 2014 confrontation with former Imo State governor Rochas Okorocha, insisting he acted to stop political activity during his father’s burial.

    He spoke during a recent interview where he revisited the incident that drew widespread attention at the time.

    Why Charly Boy confronted Okorocha

    The entertainer recalled taking the microphone from Okorocha while he was addressing guests at the funeral of his father, late Justice Chukwudifu Oputa.

    According to him, the move was deliberate after he noticed what he believed was an attempt to turn the event into a political platform.

    “He wanted to use my father’s burial as a campaign for politics. And you don’t do that. Not when I’m around,” he said.

    “I had to send him out”

    Charly Boy maintained that he asked the former governor to leave the venue, stressing that the setting was personal and not political.

    “I had to send him out. And he knew he was in my territory,” he added.

    He further suggested that he would have reacted more strongly if the situation escalated.

    Incident that stirred public reactions

    The confrontation, which occurred in 2014, sparked mixed reactions at the time, with many Nigerians debating the appropriateness of both the governor’s remarks and Charly Boy’s response.

    The entertainer’s latest comments have reignited conversations around the incident, especially on the boundaries between politics and private events.

  • Court Convicts Ex-Power Minister Mamman Over ₦33.8bn Fraud — EFCC Secures Guilty Verdict

    The Federal High Court in Abuja has convicted former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, on 12 counts of fraud and money laundering involving about ₦33.8 billion.

    Justice James Omotosho delivered the judgment on Thursday, ruling that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) proved its case beyond reasonable doubt.

    Court finds overwhelming evidence

    The court held that Mamman was guilty on all counts in the charge marked FHC/ABJ/CR/273/2024.

    Justice Omotosho said the prosecution presented strong and credible evidence, while the defence failed to counter the allegations.

    “The evidence of the prosecution is overwhelming as against the scanty and almost absent defence of the defendant,” the judge stated.

    Funds diverted through BDCs

    The court found that the former minister illegally diverted public funds meant for critical power projects.

    According to the judgment, part of the funds was routed through Bureau de Change operators and converted into foreign currency.

    Mamman was also found to have made a cash payment of $655,700, equivalent to about ₦200 million, for a property in Abuja without using a financial institution.

    Projects affected by fraud

    The diverted funds were linked to the Mambilla and Zungeru Hydroelectric Power Plant projects.

    Justice Omotosho said the defendant breached public trust and failed to prioritise national development.

    He noted that instead of leaving a legacy in the power sector, the former minister “was living large at the expense of ordinary citizens.”

    Absence stalls sentencing

    Mamman was not present in court when the judgment was delivered.

    The court subsequently deferred sentencing and considered an application by the EFCC for a warrant of arrest.

    His counsel told the court that the defendant’s whereabouts were unknown, claiming he was ill.

    However, the judge referenced reports suggesting Mamman had recently been active in political activities.

    EFCC details case

    The anti-graft agency had presented 17 witnesses and tendered 43 exhibits during the trial.

    Mamman was arrested in 2021, months after leaving office under former President Muhammadu Buhari.

    The EFCC accused him of conspiring with ministry officials to divert funds earmarked for major hydroelectric power projects.

  • Rabiu Overtakes Rupert to Become Africa’s Second-Richest Man — Bloomberg Ranking

    Chairman of BUA Group, Abdul Samad Rabiu, has emerged as Africa’s second-richest man with a net worth of $19.1 billion, according to the latest Bloomberg Billionaires Index released May 7, 2026.

    The new ranking places him behind Aliko Dangote and ahead of South Africa’s Johann Rupert.

    Wealth surge reshapes Africa’s billionaire ranking

    Rabiu’s fortune rose sharply this year, increasing by about $8.88 billion year-to-date.

    The jump pushed him past Rupert, whose wealth declined to $17.7 billion, while also improving Rabiu’s global ranking to 138th.

    Just a week earlier, his net worth stood at $15.9 billion, highlighting the rapid pace of growth.

    BUA Foods drives financial momentum

    Analysts linked the surge largely to the performance of BUA Foods, a key subsidiary of the BUA Group.

    The company posted a 14 per cent increase in profit after tax in the first quarter of 2026.

    Unaudited figures show earnings rose to ₦142.32 billion, up from ₦125.28 billion recorded in the same period in 2025.

    Despite an 11 per cent drop in revenue to ₦394.6 billion, profitability remained strong.

    Efficiency, cost control boost profits

    Reports attributed the improved earnings to tighter cost management, operational efficiency, moderated pricing, and relative stability in foreign exchange.

    The company’s performance appears to have strengthened investor confidence, contributing to Rabiu’s rising valuation.

    BUA Group’s expanding footprint

    Rabiu is the founder of BUA Group, a major Nigerian conglomerate with operations spanning cement, food production and manufacturing.

    Its subsidiary, BUA Cement, remains Nigeria’s second-largest cement producer and generated about ₦1.2 trillion in revenue in 2025.

    BUA Foods is also ranked among the country’s leading pasta producers, reinforcing the group’s influence in Nigeria’s industrial and consumer goods sectors.

  • Alleged Dangote Worker’s ₦146k Salary Slip Sparks Debate Online

    An alleged employee of Dangote Group has triggered widespread reactions online after a payslip said to detail his monthly earnings surfaced on social media.

    The claim, which remains unverified, was shared on X (formerly Twitter) and has since fueled debate over salaries and working conditions in Nigeria.

    Payslip breakdown circulates online

    According to the post by @UnkleAyo, the worker reportedly earns about ₦146,351 monthly, including allowances and incentives.

    The breakdown listed a basic salary of ₦30,758, alongside housing, food, transport, and utility allowances.

    Other components reportedly included ₦45,000 as transport support and ₦20,270 as incentives, pushing the total figure higher.

    Worker alleges demanding conditions

    Beyond the salary details, the individual also raised concerns about working conditions.

    He claimed that contract staff are not entitled to leave benefits and are expected to meet strict performance targets.

    According to the message, workers are required to visit as many as 75 outlets weekly, with activities tracked through an app.

    Mixed reactions trail claims

    The post has sparked mixed reactions, with some users questioning whether the pay matches the workload described.

    Others pointed out that the information has not been independently verified and should be treated with caution.

    The development comes amid broader conversations around wages, labour standards, and employment conditions in Nigeria.

  • Rice Hits ₦112,000 — NBS Reports Sharp Food Price Surge as Market Prices Differ

    Nigeria’s food prices climbed further in March 2026, with the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) reporting that a 50kg bag of local rice rose to ₦112,000, up from ₦92,946 in February.

    The latest figures were contained in the bureau’s Selected Food Price Watch report.

    Rice prices jump, but markets tell a different story

    According to the NBS, local rice recorded a 20.5 per cent increase within one month, while imported rice rose by 3.06 per cent to ₦133,975.

    However, market checks in some areas suggest lower retail prices, with reports indicating that a 50kg bag of local rice sells for around ₦60,000 in certain locations.

    The gap highlights ongoing disparities in pricing across markets nationwide.

    Other staple foods record steady increases

    The report also showed consistent price increases across key food items.

    A crate of eggs rose by 2.0 per cent, while brown beans increased to ₦1,325.85 per kilogram.

    White garri climbed to ₦801.54, onions reached ₦1,153.14, and fresh ginger edged higher to ₦5,541.25.

    Wide state-by-state price differences

    NBS data revealed significant variations across states.

    Taraba recorded the highest egg price at ₦6,999, while Niger had the lowest at ₦5,610.04.

    For beans, Oyo posted the highest price at ₦1,937.20 per kilogram, while Taraba recorded the lowest at ₦745.

    Garri peaked in Abia at ₦1,075.45, with Plateau recording the lowest at ₦513.78.

    Onions were highest in Abia at ₦2,115.67 and lowest in Kwara at ₦829.9.

    Pressure on households deepens

    The sustained rise in food prices continues to reflect inflationary pressure on household incomes, even as inconsistent market prices create uncertainty for consumers.

  • Sultan Dismisses ‘Christian Wipeout’ Claims, Urges Nigerians to Stop Tagging Bandits as Muslims

    The Sultan of Sokoto, Saad Abubakar III, has dismissed claims that Muslims are planning to wipe out Christians in Nigeria, urging Nigerians to stop linking criminal acts to religion.

    He made the remarks on Wednesday at a meeting of the Nigeria Inter-Religious Council (NIREC) in Abuja.

    “No plan to wipe out Christians”

    Speaking at the gathering, the Sultan said fears of a religious agenda are unfounded and misleading.

    He stressed that Muslims are neither planning nor capable of eliminating Christians from the country.

    “We are not in any position whatsoever to remove Christians from Nigeria. No, it is not possible,” he said.

    Calls for accurate narrative on insecurity

    The Sultan warned against framing insecurity as a religious conflict, insisting that perpetrators of violence should simply be identified as criminals.

    “Let us get the narrative right. It is not about religion. Let us call them what they are, criminals, not Muslim criminals, not Muslim terrorists, not Muslim bandits,” he stated.

    Dialogue remains key — Sultan

    He urged Nigerians to embrace dialogue and mutual understanding as the only sustainable path to peace.

    According to him, mistrust between religious groups is often fueled by misinformation and ignorance.

    “In NIREC, we believe in dialogue. No matter how bad things are, we believe in dialogue,” he added.

    Warning against misuse of religion

    The Sultan also cautioned against individuals using religion to justify violence, noting that such actions contradict Islamic teachings.

    He emphasised that committing violence in the name of faith does not reflect true religious values.

    The comments come amid ongoing debates around insecurity and earlier international claims alleging religious persecution in Nigeria.

     

  • “I Can Take a Bullet for Him” — Davido’s Driver Sparks Reactions With Loyalty Claim

    Davido’s longtime driver, Mr Solo, has gone viral after openly expressing deep loyalty to the Afrobeats star during a recent interview.

    His remarks, especially an emotional statement about risking his life, have triggered widespread reactions online.

    Driver defends Davido amid criticism

    Speaking during the interview, Mr Solo dismissed criticism often directed at Davido, insisting the reality on ground is different.

    According to him, the singer continues to receive love everywhere, despite negative narratives online.

    “Even the hate, they can’t say it in our faces. Everywhere they claim they hate us, when we get there, it’s love,” he said.

    “I can take it for him” — loyalty declaration

    The moment that caught attention came when Mr Solo described how far he could go for Davido.

    “I could take a sh*t for him, I go collect am for Baddest. That’s the kind of love I have,” he said.

    He added that his confidence in Davido’s generosity gives him peace of mind about his family’s future.

    “I know say even if anything happens, my kids go enjoy. No worry,” he added.

    Mixed reactions trail viral clip

    The statement has sparked mixed reactions, with some praising Davido for how he treats people around him.

    Others, however, cautioned against extreme loyalty, urging the driver to prioritise his own life and family.