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  • Davido Apologises to Fans After Missing Lagos Show Over Aviation Fuel Issues

    Afrobeats star Davido has apologised to fans after failing to appear at a scheduled performance in Lagos, blaming aviation fuel challenges that disrupted his travel plans.

    The singer was billed to headline an event marking Secret Place’s fifth anniversary in Ikate Elegushi.

    Fans react as Davido misses show

    Fans who gathered for the event on Sunday were left disappointed when the singer did not show up.

    The show, which also featured Zlatan Ibile, had drawn a large crowd expecting Davido’s performance.

    His absence quickly sparked reactions among attendees.

    Singer cites fuel challenges

    In a post shared on his Instagram story on Monday, Davido explained that logistical issues linked to aviation fuel shortages forced him to reschedule his trip.

    “The world happened to me yesterday… finding fuel was a problem to even fly. Everything had to be rescheduled,” he said.

    He linked the situation to broader global disruptions affecting fuel supply.

    Apology and promise to fans

    The singer apologised to fans who attended the event, assuring them that he would make up for the missed performance.

    “To my fans that pulled up… sorry I missed it. We’re going to run it back again soon,” he added.

    Wider concerns over fuel supply

    The incident comes amid growing concerns about aviation fuel availability and rising costs, which have impacted flight operations in several regions.

    Such disruptions have increasingly affected travel schedules, including those of entertainers and event organisers.

  • Family Begs Elumelu to Drop Complaint After Arrest of 18-Year-Old Over Viral Divorce Post

    The family of an 18-year-old UTME candidate, Kingsley Akunemeihe, has appealed to businessman Tony Elumelu to withdraw a complaint that led to the teenager’s arrest over a viral post claiming Elumelu had divorced his wife.

    The incident has sparked concern over the arrest of the student shortly after writing his JAMB exam.

    Teen arrested after exam

    Kingsley was reportedly arrested on April 18 while returning from his Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination.

    His sister, Ngozi Akunemeihe, said he was taken into custody and has remained detained at the State Criminal Investigation Department for over a week.

    “He was coming back from his JAMB exam when he was arrested and never got home,” she said.

    Family claims post was reshared

    According to Ngozi, the controversial post did not originate from her brother.

    She explained that he only reshared it from another account on X, believing it to be true at the time.

    After being alerted that the claim was false and defamatory, she said he deleted the post and issued a public apology.

    “He realised it was wrong and apologised. The apology is still on his handle,” she said.

    Appeal for leniency

    The family said the teenager was arrested about 10 days after the incident despite his apology.

    Ngozi pleaded with Elumelu to consider her brother’s age and show mercy.

    “He is just 18… a teenager who acted out of ignorance. I am begging you to withdraw the complaint so that he can come back home,” she said.

    Growing concerns

    The case has raised questions about the treatment of young social media users and the consequences of sharing unverified information online.

    As of the time of filing this report, there has been no official response from Tony Elumelu regarding the family’s appeal.

  • FG Moves to Evacuate 130 Nigerians from South Africa Over Xenophobic Attacks

    The Federal Government has begun plans to evacuate Nigerians from South Africa following renewed xenophobic attacks, with at least 130 citizens already registered for voluntary repatriation.

    The move comes amid rising concerns over violence targeting foreign nationals.

    FG raises alarm over attacks

    Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, said the evacuation plan is aimed at protecting Nigerians as tensions escalate.

    She noted that more citizens are expected to register in the coming days as fears grow over safety.

    The minister also conveyed President Bola Tinubu’s concern, stating that Nigeria would not tolerate continued attacks on its citizens and their businesses.

    Nigeria summons South African envoy

    In response to the situation, the Federal Government has summoned South Africa’s acting High Commissioner.

    The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said discussions would focus on recent anti-immigrant protests and reported cases of harassment, violence and destruction of Nigerian-owned businesses.

    Odumegwu-Ojukwu stressed the need for justice, citing the killing of two Nigerians in separate incidents allegedly involving security personnel.

    Evacuation plan underway

    According to the minister, efforts are ongoing to compile a register of Nigerians in South Africa and arrange evacuation flights for those willing to return.

    She described the process as part of broader steps to ensure the safety and welfare of Nigerians abroad.

    Wider regional concern

    Reports indicate that other African nationals have also been affected by the violence, including Ethiopian migrants.

    Despite condemnation of the attacks by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, anti-immigrant protests have continued in some areas.

    There have also been reports of individuals being stopped in public places and asked to present identification, while some foreign-owned businesses were forced to shut down during protests.

    The development has drawn reactions across the continent, with Ghana also raising concerns after a viral video showed one of its citizens being confronted over immigration status.

    South Africa is estimated to host about 2.4 million documented migrants, although the actual number is believed to be higher.

  • Makinde Slams INEC Over ‘Hasty’ ADC Leadership Update Without Supreme Court CTC

    Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has criticised the Independent National Electoral Commission for updating the African Democratic Congress leadership on its website without a Certified True Copy of the Supreme Court judgment.

    He said the move raises concerns about due process and institutional credibility.

    Governor questions INEC’s action

    Speaking with journalists on Monday, Makinde said the commission acted prematurely by reflecting changes without sighting the official court document.

    “Nobody has seen the CTC… we were surprised that INEC went ahead to update the ADC leadership,” he said.

    He added that such a step by a national institution could undermine confidence in its operations.

    Warning over dangerous precedent

    Makinde cautioned that acting on unverified information could set a troubling standard.

    “What it means is somebody can whisper a court judgment and then they will go ahead and update that,” he said.

    He insisted that a professionally run organisation should rely strictly on verified documents before taking decisions.

    PDP defends interim committee

    The governor also addressed concerns surrounding the newly formed Interim National Management Committee within the Peoples Democratic Party.

    He maintained that the committee was properly constituted in line with the party’s constitution.

    “If you go to the constitution of the PDP… two-thirds of that membership came here. So it is legally constituted,” he stated.

    Party to engage INEC

    Makinde said the PDP would formally communicate its position to INEC and expects the commission to uphold democratic principles.

    “We will write to INEC… and allow the democratic space to accommodate opposition,” he said.

    He reaffirmed the party’s resolve to push for a stronger opposition, describing the situation as part of a broader struggle for democratic balance.

    “We will not give up… this is a battle for democracy,” he added.

    The remarks followed the PDP’s 103rd National Executive Committee meeting, where an interim committee was inaugurated to manage the party’s affairs amid ongoing leadership disputes.

  • NNPC Signs Deal with Chinese Firms to Revive Port Harcourt, Warri Refineries

    The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited has signed a memorandum of understanding with two Chinese firms to explore the completion and operation of the Port Harcourt and Warri refineries.

    The agreement, disclosed in a statement dated May 3, 2026, marks a fresh step in efforts to restore Nigeria’s refining capacity.

    MoU signed in China

    According to NNPC, the MoU was signed on April 30, 2026, in Jiaxing City, China.

    The deal was executed by NNPC Group Chief Executive Officer, Bashir Bayo Ojulari, alongside Guan Jianzhong of Sanjiang Chemical Company and Bill Bi of Xinganchen Industrial Park.

    The partnership is expected to focus on completing outstanding rehabilitation work and supporting the operation and maintenance of both refineries.

    Focus on expansion, cleaner fuel

    NNPC said the collaboration would also explore expansion and upgrade options for the facilities.

    This includes plans to meet cleaner fuel standards, improve profitability and increase petrochemical production.

    The arrangement is further expected to support the development of gas-based industrial hubs around the refineries.

    Ojulari described the agreement as a significant milestone after months of negotiations.

    “All parties recognise mutually beneficial opportunities for the development and long-term sustainability of NNPC’s refining assets,” he said.

    Agreement not yet final

    The NNPC boss clarified that the MoU is non-binding and subject to regulatory approvals and further negotiations.

    He added that it is part of broader efforts to secure technical partners for the rehabilitation and long-term management of Nigeria’s refining infrastructure.

    Background on refinery projects

    The Port Harcourt refinery rehabilitation was approved in 2021 at a cost of about $1.5 billion to restore its 210,000 barrels per day capacity.

    Similarly, the Warri refinery is undergoing upgrades valued at around $897 million to revive its 125,000 barrels per day capacity and integrate petrochemical production.

    The Port Harcourt facility briefly resumed operations in late 2024 after years of shutdown but was later halted again due to operational and financial issues.

    The projects are part of NNPC’s wider strategy to reduce dependence on imported petroleum products and strengthen local refining capacity.

  • ‘Governor Amuneke’ Rejects INEC Ambassador Role, Cites Restriction on Criticism

    Nigerian skitmaker Kevin Chinedu, popularly known for his “Governor Amuneke” persona, has turned down an offer to serve as a youth ambassador for the Independent National Electoral Commission, citing concerns over restrictions on his content.

    The content creator disclosed his decision in a video shared online, explaining that the conditions attached to the role conflicted with his platform.

    Excitement turns to concern

    Amuneke said he initially welcomed the offer with excitement, describing it as a major honour.

    He noted that the opportunity meant engaging young Nigerians on civic duties such as voter registration and participation in elections.

    “This is supposed to be a national honour… it brought me tears of joy when I thought about how far I have come,” he said.

    Condition that changed everything

    According to him, the turning point came after he sought clarification on whether he could continue criticising INEC while serving in the role.

    He said he was informed that while he could promote voter education and continue content creation, direct criticism of the commission would not be allowed.

    “They told me I can still create content and even preach about PVCs… however, I cannot criticise directly INEC,” he said.

    ‘I cannot box my voice’

    The skitmaker said the condition undermines the essence of his work, which focuses on political satire and holding institutions accountable.

    “The moment I heard that, what seemed like congratulations disappeared… I wish it did not come with conditions to box my voice,” he said.

    He added that his content is driven by real-life experiences and the struggles of ordinary Nigerians.

    Message to fellow creators

    Amuneke urged other content creators to remain true to their platforms and avoid compromising their voices.

    “If you have a platform… remember there are millions of people whose hope is on that voice,” he said.

    He, however, expressed appreciation for the recognition, stating that he remains open to collaborations that do not restrict his expression.

     

  • PDP Interim NEC Unveils 2026 Primary Timetable, Sets Nomination Fees Ahead of Party Primaries

    The interim National Executive Committee of the Peoples Democratic Party has approved its 2026 pre-election timetable and nomination guidelines ahead of the party’s primaries.

    The decision was announced in a statement issued on Monday by the party’s interim leadership, outlining key dates and fees for aspirants.

    Timetable for primaries released

    According to the statement, the sale of expression of interest and nomination forms will run from May 5 to May 13, 2026.

    Submission of completed forms is scheduled for May 14, followed by screening of aspirants from May 15 to May 18.

    The party fixed May 21 for screening appeals, while the final list of cleared aspirants will be published on May 22.

    Ward primaries are expected to hold on May 27, with appeals on the exercise slated for May 28.

    A National Executive Committee meeting to approve candidates will take place on May 29, while a special convention for ratification is set for May 30.

    Breakdown of nomination fees

    The PDP also released the cost of forms for various elective positions.

    For State House of Assembly, the expression of interest form is pegged at ₦500,000, while the nomination form costs ₦1.5 million.

    House of Representatives aspirants are to pay ₦2 million for expression of interest and ₦5 million for nomination.

    Senate forms are priced at ₦3 million and ₦7 million respectively.

    Governorship aspirants will pay ₦5 million for expression of interest and ₦35 million for nomination, while the presidential forms are pegged at ₦10 million and ₦90 million.

    Concessions for women, youths

    The party announced that women will only pay for expression of interest forms, as nomination forms are free for them.

    Youths and persons living with disabilities are to enjoy a 50 percent discount on nomination forms across all positions.

    The move, according to the party, is aimed at encouraging broader participation in the political process.

    Fresh division emerges within PDP

    Meanwhile, a faction loyal to FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has announced a separate date for the party’s presidential primaries.

    The group fixed May 23, 2026, for its exercise, indicating ongoing divisions within the party structure.

    The parallel moves highlight the deepening leadership crisis within the PDP as preparations intensify for the next election cycle.

  • Court Remands Ex-Skye Bank Chairman Tunde Ayeni Over Alleged N8bn Fraud

    A High Court of the Federal Capital Territory sitting in Apo has remanded former Skye Bank chairman, Tunde Ayeni, in prison custody over an alleged N8 billion fraud case filed by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.

    The court ordered his remand on Monday after he was arraigned on a 17-count charge bordering on money laundering.

    Court orders remand after arraignment

    Trial judge Jude Onwuegbuzie gave the order after Ayeni pleaded not guilty to all charges brought against him.

    Following the plea, EFCC counsel, Ekele Iheanacho, asked the court to fix a date for trial and requested that the defendant be remanded in custody pending proceedings.

    The court granted the request, ordering Ayeni to be held in prison custody.

    Defence pushes for bail hearing

    Counsel to the defendant, Ahmed Raji (SAN), informed the court that a bail application had already been filed and served on the prosecution.

    He appealed for a short adjournment to allow the court hear the bail application, adding that the defence only received the charge sheet on April 23, 2026, during a public holiday.

    Raji also urged the court to release Ayeni to his legal team, assuring that he would be available for trial.

    Court fixes date for bail application

    Justice Onwuegbuzie adjourned the case to May 13 for the hearing of the bail application.

    The judge, however, declined the request for immediate release, insisting that the defendant remain in custody pending the next hearing.

    EFCC probes wider fraud allegations

    Ayeni’s arraignment follows his arrest by the EFCC in Abuja on April 24 over alleged financial crimes.

    Investigators are probing claims that he was involved in the diversion of funds estimated at N36.5 billion and $30 million, reportedly obtained from Polaris Bank through companies linked to him.

    The case adds to a growing list of high-profile financial crime prosecutions currently before Nigerian courts.

  • Wike Backs George Kelly for 2027 Rivers Governorship, Moves to Reassert Control

    The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has endorsed Alabo Dakorinama George Kelly as his preferred candidate for the 2027 Rivers State governorship election, signaling a new phase in the state’s political battle.

    The decision was reportedly reached after a closed-door meeting in Port Harcourt involving key political and grassroots figures.

    Closed-door meeting shapes decision

    Sources said the endorsement followed intense consultations held on Monday, with influential stakeholders in attendance.

    The meeting reportedly included former militant leaders, pointing to wider efforts to build strong political and grassroots backing ahead of the election cycle.

    The move is seen as part of Wike’s strategy to maintain influence in Rivers politics while serving at the federal level.

    George Kelly positioned for comeback

    George Kelly, a former Commissioner for Works in Rivers State, is believed to be preparing to contest under the All Progressives Congress.

    He previously contested in the Peoples Democratic Party governorship primaries in 2022, where he emerged second behind incumbent Governor Siminalayi Fubara.

    His emergence now signals a possible return to frontline politics with the backing of a powerful political structure.

    Battle lines begin to form

    Political observers say the endorsement could reshape alignments in Rivers State ahead of 2027.

    Wike’s choice of a loyal ally is being interpreted as a move to regain political control in the state amid shifting alliances.

    The development also suggests that early positioning for the 2027 elections is already underway, with major actors consolidating influence.

    Growing tension ahead of 2027

    The Rivers political landscape has remained volatile in recent months, with internal divisions and competing interests shaping the direction of major parties.

    With this endorsement, attention is expected to shift to how other political blocs respond in the coming months.

  • Lizzy Anjorin Dares Iyabo Ojo to Boxing Fight, Says “She Won’t Last Two Minutes”

    Nollywood actress Lizzy Anjorin has publicly challenged her colleague Iyabo Ojo to a boxing match, escalating their ongoing tension with a direct call-out.

    The actress made the demand in a trending video, urging show promoter Paul Okoye to fix a date for the proposed fight.

    “Set the date” — Anjorin throws challenge

    In the video, Anjorin expressed confidence in her ability to face Iyabo Ojo in the ring.

    “Set the date, Paul Okoye. Set the fight date,” she said.

    She went further to boast about her preparedness, insisting her opponent would struggle.

    “I learned boxing. Iyabo Ojo won’t last two minutes in the ring with me,” she added.

    Claims of experience and readiness

    Anjorin said her confidence comes from years of handling intense situations, describing herself as battle-tested.

    She suggested that the proposed fight could serve as a form of resolution to their long-standing issues.

    In a separate post, she called on fans to start placing bets, framing the challenge as a public showdown.

    Social media buzz intensifies

    Her comments have since triggered reactions online, with users divided over the call-out.

    While some supporters backed the idea of a celebrity boxing match, others criticised the escalation of the dispute.

    The development adds to a growing trend of entertainment boxing matches gaining traction in Nigeria.

    Tension spills into public space

    The exchange between both actresses continues to draw attention across entertainment circles, with many watching to see if the challenge will be accepted.

    As of the time of filing this report, Iyabo Ojo has not issued an official response to the challenge.