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  • Makinde Breaks Silence on 2027 Succession Debate, Urges Caution Over Religion Talks

    Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has addressed the growing debate over who should succeed him in 2027, urging residents to prioritise unity and divine guidance rather than religious considerations. He spoke on Wednesday in Ibadan during a farewell event for intending Muslim pilgrims.

    His remarks come amid rising calls from some groups advocating for a Muslim governor to emerge next.

    Governor Responds to Rising Calls for Religious Balance

    In recent months, stakeholders including market leaders, transport unions, and traditional figures such as Mogajis and Baales have pushed for a Muslim successor. They argue that such a move would sustain religious balance in the state’s leadership.

    The conversation has gained momentum as early political alignments begin to take shape ahead of the 2027 governorship race.

    Makinde Urges Focus on Leadership, Not Religion

    Speaking in Yoruba, the governor cautioned against narrowing the debate to religious identity. He said leadership decisions should be guided by what benefits the state rather than political calculations.

    “I have heard that the next governor should be a Muslim. I want to beg you to pray that God should choose for us,” he said, adding that the priority should be someone who can build on existing progress.

    Governor Highlights Representation Pattern in Senate

    Makinde also referenced what he described as a consistent pattern in Oyo State’s representation at the National Assembly. He noted that recent Senate delegations from the state have been dominated by Muslim lawmakers.

    According to him, all three senators in the current and previous assemblies are Muslims, raising questions about the basis for calls centred solely on religious identity.

    Call for Unity as Political Tensions Build

    The governor stressed the need for unity among residents, questioning whether electoral outcomes should be reduced to religious affiliations. He urged citizens to focus on collective progress rather than divisive narratives.

    “Is it only Muslims who voted that got them elected?” he asked.

    2027 Race Begins to Take Shape

    Makinde’s comments come as political activities gradually intensify ahead of the next election cycle, with discussions around zoning, religion, and representation gaining traction. His intervention signals an attempt to steer the conversation toward inclusivity and governance.

  • EFCC Probed Pastor Jerry Eze for Six Months, Found No Fraud — Olukoyede Reveals

    The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ola Olukoyede, has disclosed that the agency investigated Streams of Joy International founder, Pastor Jerry Eze, for six months over suspected money laundering. He said the probe was triggered by intelligence reports linked to large foreign currency inflows.

    Olukoyede made the revelation while speaking on the commission’s investigative processes.

    Probe Triggered by Heavy Foreign Currency Inflows

    According to the EFCC boss, the investigation began after officials flagged a domiciliary account receiving multiple inflows in dollars and pounds from different countries. He said the pattern raised initial suspicion.

    “We saw an account where dollars and pounds were coming in from Colombia, America, Sri Lanka and even Togo,” he said, explaining that the volume of transactions prompted further scrutiny.

    EFCC Conducted Detailed Six-Month Investigation

    Olukoyede said the commission carried out a thorough review of financial records linked to the pastor over a six-month period. He noted that the probe was intelligence-driven and followed standard procedures.

    The EFCC, he explained, relies on petitions and data analysis to initiate such investigations.

    Pastor Invited, Cleared After Review

    He disclosed that Pastor Jerry Eze was later invited for questioning after preliminary findings were compiled. However, after reviewing the evidence and hearing his explanation, the commission found no case against him.

    “I didn’t call you here to explain. We had already done our work. I called you to commend you,” Olukoyede said.

    EFCC Warns of Ongoing Monitoring

    Despite clearing the cleric, the EFCC chairman emphasised that financial activities across sectors, including religious institutions, remain under scrutiny. He warned that some individuals have used similar platforms for fraudulent activities.

    He reiterated the commission’s commitment to monitoring suspicious transactions and enforcing financial laws.

    Case Highlights EFCC’s Intelligence-Led Approach

    The disclosure offers insight into how the anti-graft agency tracks and investigates financial flows, particularly involving foreign transactions. It also underscores the broader focus on transparency and accountability in Nigeria’s financial system.

  • “Borrowing Is Not a Disease” — Tinubu Defends Rising Debt Amid Fresh Loan Plans

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has defended Nigeria’s growing debt profile, saying borrowing is a necessary tool for development and should not be seen as a negative. He made the remarks on Tuesday at the Presidential Villa in Abuja during a meeting with Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang and other stakeholders.

    His comments come amid renewed scrutiny over the country’s increasing reliance on loans.

    Tinubu Insists Borrowing Key to Development Goals

    The President said the focus should be on how borrowed funds are used and repaid, not the act of borrowing itself. He maintained that strategic financing remains essential for infrastructure growth and economic expansion.

    “If we have to borrow money, we will, because borrowing is not leprosy; we just have to work hard to be able to repay it,” he said.

    Fresh Loans Linked to Major Infrastructure Push

    The defence follows the National Assembly’s approval of a $516.3 million loan for the Sokoto–Badagry superhighway project. The planned 1,000-kilometre corridor is expected to link key states across the North-West and South-West.

    Government officials say the project will improve connectivity, ease movement, and unlock economic opportunities along the route.

    Nigeria’s Debt Profile Continues to Climb

    Concerns have grown over Nigeria’s rising debt burden, with figures from the Debt Management Office showing total public debt reached about ₦159.28 trillion as of December 2025. The increase has been driven by fresh borrowing and exchange rate pressures.

    If additional loan requests exceeding $6 billion are approved, projections suggest the country’s total debt could approach ₦195 trillion.

    Criticism Mounts Over Borrowing Strategy

    The administration has faced criticism from opposition figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who questioned the pace and transparency of new borrowing. He warned that excessive debt without clear repayment plans could pose long-term risks.

    Critics have called for stronger accountability, detailed cost-benefit analysis, and strict adherence to procurement processes.

    President Calls for Shift in Public Narrative

    Tinubu argued that borrowing should be viewed within the context of economic productivity and long-term growth. He said many advanced economies rely on debt financing to achieve major development milestones.

    The President added that his administration is focused on building infrastructure and strengthening the economy to ensure debts are sustainably managed.

  • US Unveils Trump-Themed Passport for 250th Independence Anniversary

    The United States Department of State has announced plans to release a limited-edition passport featuring the image of President Donald Trump as part of activities marking the country’s 250th independence anniversary. The commemorative document is expected to debut in July.

    Officials say the initiative forms part of broader celebrations tied to the historic milestone.

    Commemorative Passport Design Confirmed

    According to the State Department, the special passport will include customised artwork, with reports indicating that Trump’s portrait will appear on the inside cover. A mock-up shared online also shows his signature embossed in gold.

    Authorities noted that the redesigned passport will retain all existing security features despite the visual changes.

    Limited Release Planned Amid Anniversary Celebrations

    Officials disclosed that the passports will be produced in limited quantities, with reports suggesting around 25,000 units for the commemorative run. However, details on distribution remain unclear.

    It is yet to be confirmed whether the special passports will be issued automatically or made available through a separate request process.

    Part of Wider 250th Anniversary Programme

    The development comes as the United States prepares for a nationwide celebration of its 250th independence anniversary. Planned activities include major public events such as a fireworks display at Mount Rushmore.

    The commemorative passport joins a range of symbolic initiatives typically associated with national milestones.

    Questions Emerge Over Use and Availability

    While commemorative items like coins and park passes are common in the US, a passport remains a globally recognised identification document valid for years. This has raised questions about how the limited-edition version will be used in practice.

    With preparations ongoing, attention is now on further details from authorities regarding rollout and eligibility.

  • Court Bars INEC From ADC Congresses, Nullifies Mark-Led Caretaker Actions

    The Federal High Court in Abuja has barred the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from recognising or participating in any congress organised by committees set up by the Senator David Mark-led caretaker leadership of the African Democratic Congress (ADC). The ruling also restrains the group from interfering with the functions of elected state executives.

    Justice Joyce Abdulmalik delivered the judgment on Wednesday, settling a dispute over the control of party structures ahead of planned congresses.

    Court Affirms State Executives’ Authority Over Congresses

    The court held that the responsibility for conducting state congresses rests solely with state executive committees, not the national leadership. It ruled that any attempt by the caretaker committee to organise such congresses falls outside its powers.

    Justice Abdulmalik stated that both the 1999 Constitution and the ADC constitution do not empower the caretaker body to appoint congress committees.

    Tenure of State Structures Declared Valid

    In its decision, the court affirmed that the tenure of ADC State Working Committees and State Executive Committees remains valid and subsisting. It said these structures must be allowed to complete their terms pending properly conducted congresses and a national convention.

    The ruling reinforces the position that only duly elected party organs can manage internal electoral processes.

    Suit Filed by Aggrieved Party Members

    The judgment followed a suit filed by several ADC members, including Don Norman Obinna and others, who challenged the legality of the caretaker committee’s actions. The plaintiffs argued that the planned congresses violated the party’s constitution.

    They maintained that only recognised party structures have the authority to organise congresses, urging the court to intervene.

    Court Cites Constitutional Breach, Rejects Jurisdiction Argument

    Justice Abdulmalik agreed with the plaintiffs, noting that the claims raised involved alleged breaches of constitutional and statutory provisions. She dismissed arguments that the court lacked jurisdiction, stressing that such matters warrant judicial review.

    “The law is settled that courts will not interfere. However, where there is an allegation of breach… the court has a duty to intervene,” she ruled.

    Caretaker Committee Actions Nullified

    The court subsequently nullified all processes initiated by the Mark-led caretaker leadership regarding the conduct of state congresses. It emphasised that such actions contravene both constitutional provisions and party guidelines.

    The ruling effectively halts any congress exercise linked to the caretaker committee.

    Ruling Reshapes ADC Internal Power Structure

    The decision is expected to have significant implications for the ADC’s internal leadership dynamics, particularly as political activities begin to intensify. Attention is now on how the party will navigate the ruling and organise its congresses within the framework outlined by the court.

  • Dangote Refinery Raises Petrol Price by ₦75, Signals Fresh Pressure on Pump Rates

    Dangote Refinery has increased the ex-depot price of petrol by ₦75, pushing its loading cost to ₦1,275 per litre. The adjustment, confirmed on Wednesday, is already stirring concerns of a possible rise in pump prices across Nigeria.

    The price hike comes amid operational changes and rising global crude oil costs.

    New Depot Price Takes Effect as Supply System Adjusts

    Data from industry sources shows the refinery raised its petrol loading price from ₦1,200 to ₦1,275 per litre, while coastal supply prices climbed to ₦1,215. A refinery official confirmed the adjustment, describing it as part of ongoing operational realities.

    The increase has quickly filtered through the downstream market, with marketers recalibrating their pricing expectations.

    Supply Disruption Adds to Market Tension

    Sources familiar with operations said the refinery halted its Proforma Invoice entry process around 4:00 pm on Tuesday. The move disrupted normal supply scheduling and temporarily stalled transactions within its loading system.

    The disruption reportedly led to a brief halt in the sale of petrol and Automotive Gas Oil, tightening supply conditions and adding pressure to an already sensitive market.

    Marketers Brace for Ripple Effect Nationwide

    Industry operators say such adjustments typically cascade through the value chain, affecting transportation, distribution, and retail pricing. Many marketers are now anticipating higher depot costs, which could translate into increased pump prices in the coming days.

    The development has heightened uncertainty, particularly as fuel pricing remains a major concern for consumers and businesses.

    Global Oil Price Surge Drives Cost Increase

    The price adjustment comes as international crude oil prices climb sharply. Brent crude was trading around $114.80 per barrel, while West Texas Intermediate rose to about $103.40, reflecting sustained upward momentum.

    Analysts link the surge to geopolitical tensions around the Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil supply route, which has pushed up feedstock costs for refiners.

    Rising Costs Set Stage for Possible Fuel Price Hike

    With higher crude prices feeding into refinery costs and supply disruptions tightening the market, attention is now on how quickly the increase will reflect at filling stations. The latest adjustment underscores the sensitivity of Nigeria’s fuel market to global shifts and operational changes.

  • “No Explanation” — Delta Police Spokesman Reacts to Viral Killing, Mentions ‘Spirituality’

    The Delta State Police Command has reacted to the viral video showing a suspect being shot by a police officer in Effurun, with spokesperson Bright Edafe saying the incident remains difficult to explain. He added that “spirituality may not be far from it,” as investigations continue.

    Edafe spoke during a live interview on Channels Television on Wednesday, addressing the growing outrage surrounding the incident.

    Viral Video Shows Handcuffed Suspect Shot

    Footage circulating online shows a man with his hands cuffed behind his back pleading before being shot by an officer. A police bus at the scene was marked “Effurun Area Command,” linking the incident to operatives in Delta State.

    The killing, widely described as extrajudicial, reportedly occurred on April 26 during an operation based on intelligence from members of the public.

    Police Say Officer Violated Operational Rules

    In an earlier statement, the command said the victim, identified as 28-year-old Mene Ogidi, was arrested while attempting to waybill a parcel suspected to contain a Beretta pistol with four rounds of ammunition.

    According to the police, the officer leading the team, ASP Nuhu Usman, acted outside established procedures. The command said he violated Force Order 237 and the Nigeria Police Force’s standard operating guidelines by discharging his firearm.

    Edafe Admits Difficulty Explaining Officer’s Action

    Reacting to the development, Edafe said the command is still trying to understand what led to the shooting. He described the situation as one of the most challenging moments in his role.

    “Having an incident that cannot be explained is very difficult. There is no explanation for this,” he said. He added that while the police cannot formally attribute the act to spirituality, “that may not be far from it.”

    Officer Arrested, Disciplinary Process Underway

    The police confirmed that the officer involved has been arrested and transferred to Abuja to face disciplinary proceedings. Authorities say further investigation is ongoing to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident.

    The case has drawn widespread attention across social media and news platforms, intensifying calls for accountability.

    Incident Revives Concerns Over Police Conduct

    The killing has renewed public concern over the use of force by security operatives, coming nearly six years after the #EndSARS protests against police brutality. The latest development is expected to keep pressure on authorities as demands for transparency and justice continue to grow.

  • EU Slams Meta Over Child Safety Failures, Charges Firm for Allowing Under-13 Access

    Meta Platforms has been formally charged by European Union regulators for allegedly failing to prevent children under 13 from accessing Facebook and Instagram. The move follows a two-year investigation into the company’s compliance with the Digital Services Act (DSA).

    The European Commission said the charges relate to concerns that Meta has not adequately enforced its own age restrictions across its platforms.

    EU Findings Point to Weak Enforcement of Age Rules

    According to regulators, Meta’s systems for identifying and removing underage users remain ineffective despite clear policies banning children under 13. The Commission said enforcement gaps have allowed millions of minors to access the platforms.

    Estimates from the EU suggest that between 10 and 12 per cent of children under 13 in Europe are currently using Facebook and Instagram.

    Regulators Raise Concerns Over Child Safety Risks

    The Commission warned that the failure to restrict access exposes minors to harmful content and online risks. Officials said stronger safeguards are required under the Digital Services Act.

    EU tech chief Henna Virkkunen criticised the company’s approach, stating that existing rules must go beyond written policies and translate into real protection for users.

    Meta Asked to Strengthen Systems and Compliance Measures

    Regulators have directed Meta to overhaul its risk assessment processes and improve its ability to detect and remove underage users. The company is also expected to implement stricter enforcement mechanisms in line with DSA requirements.

    The charges mark one of the most significant enforcement actions under the EU’s new digital regulations targeting Big Tech firms.

  • Ibiyeomie Links 50 Cent’s Failed Port Harcourt Show to Crusade, Sparks Online Debate

    Founder of Salvation Ministries, David Ibiyeomie, has recounted an incident involving American rapper 50 Cent and a planned concert in Port Harcourt, saying the event’s collapse coincided with a church crusade scheduled for the same day. The account, shared in a viral video, has drawn mixed reactions online.

    The cleric narrated the experience while addressing his congregation, with clips from the sermon now circulating widely on social media.

    Cleric Recalls Clash Between Concert and Crusade

    According to Ibiyeomie, the rapper was billed to perform in Port Harcourt at the peak of his career on the same day his church had planned a crusade. He said the situation raised concerns about attendance among members.

    He stated that he warned that if the concert held and believers attended, he would not proceed with the programme.

    “If He Comes, Then God Did Not Call Me”

    The pastor said he made a strong declaration at the time, linking the outcome of the concert to his calling. He suggested that the event would serve as a test of his ministry.

    “I said if 50 Cent comes to perform, then God did not call me,” he said.

    Concert Fails to Hold as Planned

    Ibiyeomie claimed that the rapper encountered issues before reaching Port Harcourt and was unable to proceed with the performance. According to him, 50 Cent reportedly turned back after arriving in Lagos.

    He added that individuals who had purchased tickets for the concert eventually attended the church programme instead.

    Mixed Reactions Trail Viral Video

    The story has sparked varied reactions online, with users debating whether the development was coincidental or reflective of faith-based beliefs. Some expressed agreement with the pastor’s interpretation, while others questioned the narrative.

    Clips of the sermon continue to circulate across platforms, fueling ongoing discussions.

  • Gunmen Attack Ekiti Church, Kill Pastor, Abduct Worshippers During Crusade

    Gunmen have attacked a church in Ekiti State, killing a pastor and abducting several worshippers during an open-air crusade in Eda Oniyo Ekiti, Ilejemeje Local Government Area. The incident, which occurred Tuesday evening, has thrown the community into panic.

    Residents said the attackers stormed the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) venue on the outskirts of the town and opened fire before taking some worshippers into a nearby forest.

    Pastor Killed as Worshippers Taken Into Forest

    Sources within the community said the assailants arrived in large numbers and were heavily armed. During the attack, the pastor was shot dead while several others were forcefully taken away.

    A resident, who spoke anonymously, said efforts were ongoing to determine the number of abducted victims. “They were many. They killed the pastor and took some worshippers. We are still trying to know how many are missing,” the source said.

    Security Operatives Launch Rescue Efforts

    A government official familiar with the development confirmed the incident, noting that security agencies had been deployed to the area. He said operatives were already on the trail of the attackers and expressed confidence that the victims would be rescued.

    “Yes, some worshippers were kidnapped… security agencies are involved and on the trail of the attackers,” the source said.

    Police Confirm Attack, Begin Manhunt

    The Ekiti State Police Command confirmed the attack on Wednesday and announced the commencement of a coordinated rescue operation. The Police Public Relations Officer, Sunday Abutu, said the Commissioner of Police, Michael Falade, had ordered a full investigation.

    According to him, the police, in collaboration with the Nigerian Army, Amotekun Corps, Agro Marshals, vigilantes and local hunters, have begun aggressive bush combing operations to locate the victims and apprehend the perpetrators.

    Authorities Urge Calm, Heighten Security Advisory

    The police urged residents to remain calm while assuring that all necessary steps were being taken to address the situation. Abutu also called on members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements to security agencies.

    He advised religious leaders to notify the police before organising late-night programmes to enable proper security arrangements.

    Recurring Pattern Raises Fresh Concerns

    The attack adds to a growing pattern of assaults on religious gatherings in parts of the country. A similar incident occurred in November 2025 in Kwara State, where gunmen attacked a church, killed worshippers and abducted dozens.

    The latest development is expected to heighten concerns around security in rural communities, particularly during large gatherings, as authorities intensify efforts to rescue the victims and restore calm.