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  • Dangote Refinery Denies Fuel Price Hike, Says Petrol Price Remains Unchanged

    Dangote Petroleum Refinery has dismissed reports suggesting an increase in the gantry price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), insisting that its ex-depot price remains unchanged.

    The clarification was issued on Wednesday in response to viral claims circulating on social media that the refinery had adjusted its petrol price upward.

    Refinery counters viral price hike claims

    According to the company, the reports alleging a ₦75 increase in ex-depot price from ₦1,275 to ₦1,350 per litre are false.

    It described the speculation as misleading and urged the public to disregard unverified information being shared online, particularly on X.

    Commitment to price stability

    Dangote Refinery said it has maintained its current pricing structure as part of efforts to support stability in Nigeria’s energy market.

    It added that the decision is aimed at cushioning the impact of global economic pressures and reducing inflationary risks.

    “Price remains unchanged” — company insists

    The refinery stressed that it continues to absorb cost pressures to ensure steady fuel supply and affordability in the domestic market.

    It also reaffirmed its commitment to energy security and the consistent distribution of petroleum products across Nigeria.

    Public urged to rely on official updates

    The company advised Nigerians to depend only on official statements from Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals Limited for accurate pricing and operational information.

  • Alleged Coup Plot: Villa Maintenance Staff Says He Was Deceived Into Scheme Against Tinubu

    Zekari Umoru, one of the six defendants standing trial over an alleged plot to overthrow President Bola Tinubu, has told a Federal High Court in Abuja that he was misled into the incident.

    Umoru, a staff member of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc attached to the Presidential Villa maintenance department, made the claim in a recorded extra-judicial statement played before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik.

    How alleged involvement began

    He said his contact with the accused persons began in May 2025 through Ahmed Ibrahim, a police inspector attached to the presidential clinic and the third defendant in the case.

    According to him, Ibrahim later introduced him to a man identified as Hassan Mohammed, also known as “Col. Mohammed Ma’aji”, who allegedly presented himself as a businessman seeking help with construction-related jobs.

    Cash transfers and repeated meetings

    Umoru told investigators that he initially believed Ma’aji was a civilian because bank transfers linked to the dealings carried the name Hassan Mohammed.

    He said he received multiple payments, sometimes in the presence of Ibrahim, and attended meetings where money was also shared among participants.

    He recounted a meeting at a location identified as “Tiger Bar”, where Ma’aji allegedly distributed between ₦100,000 and ₦120,000 to those present after social interactions.

    Alleged ₦8.8m cash delivery

    Umoru further claimed that on September 24, 2025, he received a “Ghana-Must-Go” bag containing cash, which he later deposited at a Zenith Bank branch and confirmed to be ₦8.8 million.

    He said another ₦2 million was allegedly handed over the next day, with Ibrahim expected to explain its purpose later.

    Claims of alleged plot discussion

    He told the court that Ibrahim later hinted that Ma’aji was unhappy with the state of the country and planned to “sanitise the government” with the support of unnamed associates.

    Umoru also alleged there was mention of using an ambulance driver to gain access into the Presidential Villa.

    Denial of coup involvement

    Despite the allegations, Umoru insisted he had no knowledge of any plan to overthrow the government, saying he only became suspicious later.

    He said he confronted Ibrahim after noticing repeated financial transactions and claimed he was misled throughout the process.

    Umoru also apologised to his employers and expressed support for President Tinubu’s administration.

    Case background

    The Federal Government is prosecuting six defendants in the case marked FHC/ABJ/CR/206/2026, including Umoru, Ibrahim, and several retired military officers.

    They were arraigned on 13 counts on April 22, 2026.

  • “We’ll Use the Rules on You” — Akpabio Warns as Oshiomhole Disrupts Senate Proceedings

    There was a tense moment in the Senate on Wednesday after a heated exchange broke out between Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Senator Adams Oshiomhole over procedural rules.

    The disagreement erupted during plenary while the Votes and Proceedings of the previous sitting were being read.

    Clash over Senate procedure

    Trouble began when Oshiomhole raised a point of order, prompting Akpabio to remind him that such interruptions are not allowed at that stage under the amended Standing Orders.

    Despite the warning, Oshiomhole continued, leading Akpabio to call on Senator Orji Kalu to clarify the rule. Kalu backed the Senate President, insisting that no point of order could be entertained at that point.

    Tensions escalate on the floor

    As the exchange intensified, Chief Whip Tahir Monguno also stepped in, cautioning Oshiomhole to comply or risk disciplinary action.

    Akpabio later issued a direct warning: “If you become unruly, we will use the rules to take you out of the Senate.”

    The session eventually continued, with lawmakers adopting the Votes and Proceedings after a motion was moved and seconded.

    Fresh rule amendment sparks controversy

    The clash comes shortly after the Senate amended its Standing Rules, a move that has drawn attention ahead of the 2027 elections.

    Under the new provisions, only senators who have served at least two consecutive terms immediately before nomination will be eligible to contest for principal leadership positions.

    This effectively limits eligibility for key roles such as Senate President and Deputy Senate President to returning lawmakers from the current assembly.

    Implications for future contenders

    The amendment narrows the field for leadership positions in the incoming 11th National Assembly, excluding first-time or non-consecutive senators from contesting.

    Lawmakers say the change is aimed at strengthening parliamentary tradition and enforcing ranking within the Senate.

    The development has added another layer to ongoing political realignments, as attention gradually shifts toward 2027.

  • Wike Fires Back After Pastor’s Emotional Plea Over Jabi Lake

    FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has reacted to a viral appeal by Pastor Sarah Omakwu, dismissing emotional pressure over the proposed development of the Jabi Lake recreation area in Abuja.

    The response came during his Wednesday media briefing, days after the cleric publicly pleaded against any private takeover of the site.

    Pastor’s plea sparks public attention

    Omakwu, Senior Pastor of Family Worship Centre, had gone on her knees in a video, urging the minister not to allocate the lake area to private interests.

    “I cannot fight the minister… but I go on my knees… that Jabi Lake Recreation Centre should not be given to anybody,” she said.

    The emotional appeal quickly gained traction online.

    “I’m not moved by emotions” — Wike replies

    Reacting, Wike said governance cannot be driven by sentiment, stressing that not everyone will agree with government decisions.

    “I’m human in this government and you don’t expect everybody to be happy,” he said.

    He questioned the basis of the claim, asking who owns the lake and why individuals would assume control over public assets.

    Concerns over current state of the area

    Wike explained that the location had previously been allocated to a company for development but had deteriorated into what he described as shanties.

    He said the condition of the area raised security and environmental concerns.

    “There is a hotel there… who would come and stay when there are shanties all over? You don’t know if there are criminals,” he added.

    Debate over public space and development

    The exchange has sparked wider conversations about urban development, public access, and government decision-making in the FCT.

    While some support redevelopment efforts, others insist the lake should remain a public recreational space.

  • FG Bans Honorary Degree Holders from Using ‘Dr’ Title Nationwide

    The Federal Government has prohibited recipients of honorary degrees from using the title “Dr” in any official, academic or professional setting across Nigeria.

    Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, announced the directive on Wednesday after the Federal Executive Council meeting at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.

    Crackdown on ‘Dr’ title misuse

    Alausa said the move follows a growing pattern of abuse linked to honorary degrees, which he described as increasingly politicised.

    “The recent trend… has revealed a growing abuse and politicisation of this academic privilege,” he stated.

    Concerns over patronage and ethics

    According to the minister, honorary awards have in some cases been used for political patronage and financial gain.

    He also raised concerns about the practice of conferring such honours on serving public officials, noting that it goes against established academic ethics.

    New rule takes effect

    Under the directive, recipients of honorary doctorates can no longer prefix their names with “Dr”.

    Instead, they are expected to clearly state the honorary nature of the award after their names.

    Push to restore academic integrity

    The government said the decision is aimed at protecting the credibility of academic titles and ensuring that earned qualifications are not undermined.

    The development is expected to trigger reactions across academic and public circles, where honorary titles have become increasingly common.

  • Adeosun Raises Alarm as Dangote Struggles to Find Skilled Workers in Nigeria

    Former Minister of Finance, Kemi Adeosun, has raised fresh concerns about Nigeria’s labour market, pointing to a widening gap between job seekers and employable skills.

    She made the remark during an appearance on Channels Television’s The Platform, citing a recent discussion with industrialist Aliko Dangote.

    “Too many CVs, not enough skills”

    Adeosun said Dangote expressed frustration over the difficulty of recruiting qualified staff locally, despite receiving large volumes of applications.

    “I had a conversation with Dangote recently… he told me it’s not that he wants to employ foreigners but he can’t get staff in Nigeria,” she said.

    She noted that the situation suggests a deeper structural issue within the country’s workforce.

    Growing mismatch in labour market

    According to Adeosun, the problem goes beyond unemployment figures, pointing instead to a disconnect between education and industry needs.

    She warned that many graduates lack practical, job-ready skills, making it difficult for employers to fill roles even when vacancies exist.

    Echoes of earlier concerns

    Her comments come shortly after Moniepoint CEO Tosin Eniolorunda revealed that the fintech company is struggling to fill over 500 roles due to a shortage of qualified candidates.

    The parallel concerns from both the industrial and tech sectors have intensified discussions around Nigeria’s workforce readiness.

    Online reactions highlight deeper tensions

    The remarks have triggered mixed reactions online, with some Nigerians blaming poor education and lack of training opportunities, while others questioned whether companies are offering competitive salaries.

    The debate continues to reflect broader concerns about wages, employability, and the future of Nigeria’s workforce.

  • Reno Omokri Claims UK Fuel Hits ₦3,200/Litre, Sparks Fresh Debate in Nigeria

    Former presidential aide Reno Omokri has stirred fresh conversation after claiming petrol now sells for as high as ₦3,200 per litre in England, using the comparison to argue that rising fuel costs are a global issue.

    The comment followed a video he recorded shortly after arriving at Heathrow Airport in the United Kingdom.

    Conversation with UK driver fuels claim

    In the video, Omokri engaged a cab driver who said diesel prices were nearing £2 per litre, while petrol ranged between £1.65 and £1.85.

    The driver noted that prices had climbed from earlier levels of about £1.30 to £1.40 per litre.

    Omokri estimated the increase at over 30 percent, a claim the driver appeared to agree with.

    “Fuel hikes are global”

    Omokri used the exchange to argue that Nigeria’s fuel price situation should be viewed within a broader global context.

    He said geopolitical tensions, particularly in the Middle East, are driving price increases across countries, regardless of whether they produce oil.

    “Price increases are not limited to Nigeria,” he suggested.

    Oil production not equal to cheap fuel

    The cab driver also noted that the UK produces between 700,000 and one million barrels of crude oil daily, yet still faces rising domestic fuel prices.

    Omokri pointed to this as evidence that oil-producing nations are not immune to global market forces.

    Mixed reactions trail comparison

    The claim has triggered debate online, with some Nigerians agreeing that global trends influence local fuel costs, while others question the accuracy of direct currency comparisons.

    The discussion reflects ongoing public concern over petrol pricing and economic realities in Nigeria.

  • Birthday Twist as Kalu Signs Tinubu’s 2027 Nomination Form

    Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has publicly endorsed President Bola Tinubu’s second-term bid, signing his nomination form for the 2027 general elections.

    The move coincided with Kalu’s 55th birthday, which he described as a symbolic moment to reaffirm his political stance.

    “A birthday gift” — Kalu explains move

    Kalu said endorsing the President’s form was a rare privilege and a meaningful way to mark his birthday.

    “This was indeed a beautiful birthday gift… reaffirming my support and commitment to the continuity of the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda,” he said.

    Top figures join endorsement

    The signing took place on Tuesday alongside other key figures, including Ikeja lawmaker James Faleke and Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.

    Kalu disclosed the development in a post shared on his X handle.

    Backing continuity beyond 2027

    According to the Deputy Speaker, the endorsement reflects a broader commitment among some political leaders to sustain the current administration’s reforms.

    He said efforts remain focused on advancing development and improving the welfare of Nigerians.

    “We remain resolute in our pledge to work with Mr. President in delivering transformative reforms,” he added.

    Early signals ahead of 2027

    The development adds to early political signals ahead of the 2027 elections, with alignments and endorsements gradually taking shape within the ruling camp.

  • Davido Pauses Music, Steps Into Campaign Trail for Adeleke’s Re-Election Push

    Afrobeats star Davido has announced a temporary pause in his music career as he throws his weight behind the re-election bid of his uncle, Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke.

    The singer made the declaration in Ede on Tuesday during the inauguration of the Imole Youth Campaign Mobilisation Team, where he was unveiled as chairman.

    Two-month break for political push

    Davido said he would suspend his music activities for two months to focus fully on grassroots mobilisation efforts across the state.

    “I have put my musical career on hold for two months… not only because he is my uncle but because he is doing a good job and still has more to accomplish,” he said.

    He stressed that the election is critical and requires strong engagement, especially among young voters.

    Focus on youth-driven mobilisation

    According to him, the youth campaign team will play a central role in connecting with voters at the grassroots level.

    He described the committee as one of the most important in the campaign structure, noting its focus on mobilising young people across communities.

    “This is one of the most important committees because it focuses on youths,” he added.

    Call for door-to-door engagement

    Davido urged members of the team to adopt direct engagement strategies, including door-to-door campaigns in all local government areas.

    He said the goal is to highlight the governor’s achievements and communicate his future plans effectively to residents.

    “Engage people within your communities and communicate the governor’s programmes effectively,” he said.

    Celebrities and political influence

    The development reflects a familiar trend in Nigeria’s political space, where entertainers increasingly play active roles in election campaigns.

    Observers note that such involvement has grown in recent years, particularly in mobilising younger voters ahead of major elections.

  • Rufai Oseni Raises Alarm Over Justice Crack Arrest, Questions Military Action

    Arise TV anchor Rufai Oseni has reacted strongly to the reported arrest of content creator Justice Crack, questioning the Nigerian military’s justification and the manner of his detention.

    The incident follows a viral video in which Justice Crack raised concerns about the welfare of Nigerian soldiers.

    Rufai questions basis of arrest

    Speaking on the development, Rufai challenged the allegations against the content creator, particularly claims that the information he shared was false.

    He argued that the issues highlighted are already widely known, even among military personnel.

    “What exactly did he say that many military personnel themselves are not already complaining about?” he asked.

    “He was picked up against his will”

    Rufai also criticised how the arrest was reportedly carried out, describing it as forceful and lacking due process.

    According to him, Justice Crack was taken into custody against his will, raising concerns about the legality of the action.

    “He was picked up against his will… he was practically kidnapped until people started speaking up,” he said.

    Concerns over free expression

    The journalist further warned that such incidents could have wider implications for freedom of expression in the country.

    He suggested that individuals who speak on sensitive national issues could become vulnerable if due process is not followed.

    “I am speaking up today because it can happen to anyone,” he added.

    Debate grows over accountability

    The development has since triggered conversations online, with many Nigerians debating the balance between national security and the right to speak out.

    While some support the need for caution around sensitive information, others argue that concerns about soldiers’ welfare should not attract punitive measures.