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  • Gunfire Scare Disrupts White House Dinner as Trump, Melania Evacuated

    United States President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump were evacuated on Saturday night after gunfire erupted near the White House Correspondents’ Dinner in Washington, D.C., triggering panic among thousands of attendees.

    Gunman opens fire at security checkpoint

    The incident occurred at the venue’s main screening area when a man reportedly armed with a shotgun attempted to breach security and opened fire.

    A Secret Service agent was hit during the attack but escaped injury due to protective gear, officials confirmed.

    Panic as dignitaries rushed to safety

    Security operatives quickly moved the president, first lady, and other top officials out of the hall as confusion spread across the venue.

    Guests at the high-profile event were forced to dive for cover, while agents secured the premises.

    Senior officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., and Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, were also ordered to the ground during the operation.

    Suspect apprehended at the scene

    Authorities confirmed that the suspected gunman was swiftly arrested and taken into custody without further casualties.

    The suspect has been identified as 31-year-old Cole Tomas Allen from California and is expected to face charges in court.

    Trump reacts, praises security response

    In a post shortly after the incident, Trump commended law enforcement for their swift action, stating that all senior officials were safe.

    “Shooter had been apprehended… Secret Service and Law Enforcement did a fantastic job,” he said.

    He described the suspect as a “would-be assassin” who had managed to breach a key security layer before being stopped.

    Event cancelled amid security concerns

    The White House Correspondents’ Dinner was immediately called off following the incident, with Trump expressing hope that it could be rescheduled within 30 days.

    The development comes months after a previous security scare in July 2024, when Trump was rushed off stage during a campaign rally after gunfire, sustaining an injury to his ear.

  • EFCC Warns Skit Makers Over Use of Agency Identity, Threatens Legal Action

    The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has issued a fresh warning to skit makers and content creators, cautioning against the unauthorised use of its name, logo, uniforms, and operational identity in videos and other media content.

    Crackdown on unauthorised use

    The anti-graft agency said such portrayals misrepresent its operations and could mislead the public, especially amid rising cases of impersonation.

    According to the commission, any use of EFCC-branded jackets, insignia, or symbols without official approval is illegal and may attract prosecution.

    Concerns over scams and impersonation

    The EFCC noted that fraudulent individuals have increasingly exploited such portrayals to pose as its officials and extort unsuspecting Nigerians.

    It stressed that protecting its identity is necessary to prevent confusion and maintain public trust in its operations.

    Directive to content creators

    While acknowledging the role of creative content in raising awareness about financial crimes, the agency insisted that prior approval must be obtained before using its identity in any production.

    It warned creators to immediately desist from unauthorised depictions or risk being treated as impersonators under the law.

    Background to repeated warnings

    The latest directive follows similar cautions issued by the commission in recent years, often triggered by viral skits portraying EFCC operatives in exaggerated or comedic ways.

    Despite previous warnings, the agency said the trend has continued, prompting renewed enforcement efforts.

    Mixed reactions trail directive

    The move has sparked debate online, with some Nigerians supporting the decision as necessary to curb fraud, while others argue it could limit satire and creative expression.

    The EFCC, however, maintained that safeguarding its image and preventing misuse remain a priority.

     

  • Yahaya Bello Secures N1bn Court Victory Over Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan

    A Kogi State High Court has awarded N1 billion in damages to former governor Yahaya Bello in a defamation case against Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan over remarks made during a television interview.

    Court rules interview defamatory

    Delivering judgment in the suit marked HCL/16/2023, Justice A. S. Ibrahim held that statements made by the senator during a November 4, 2022 appearance on Arise TV’s “The Morning Show” were defamatory.

    The court ruled that describing Bello as a “murderer,” “killer,” and “perpetrator of evil acts” was unjustified and damaging to his reputation.

    N1bn damages, injunction granted

    Based on the balance of probabilities, the court entered judgment in favour of Bello and awarded ₦1 billion as damages.

    It also issued a perpetual injunction restraining Akpoti-Uduaghan, her agents, or associates from making further defamatory statements against the former governor across media platforms.

    Legal battle and appeal history

    The suit followed Bello’s claim that the senator’s comments tarnished his image.

    Akpoti-Uduaghan’s legal team had challenged the court’s jurisdiction, arguing that the case was an abuse of court process.

    However, Bello’s counsel countered the claim, insisting the matter was properly filed. The Court of Appeal later dismissed the senator’s challenge and affirmed the High Court’s authority to hear the case.

  • EFCC Arrests Tunde Ayeni Over Alleged ₦36.5bn, $30m Fraud

    The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has arrested businessman and former Skye Bank chairman, Tunde Ayeni, over alleged financial misconduct involving ₦36.5 billion and $30 million.

    Arrest in Abuja

    Ayeni was reportedly picked up in Abuja on Thursday and is currently in EFCC custody as investigations continue into the matter.

    Sources familiar with the case said the arrest is linked to an ongoing probe into alleged financial dealings connected to Polaris Bank Plc.

    Probe focuses on fund diversion

    According to the report, the anti-graft agency is investigating the alleged diversion and misappropriation of funds said to have been obtained through companies linked to the former bank chairman.

    The funds are suspected to have been moved through a network of corporate entities allegedly associated with him.

    Investigation ongoing

    While details of the case remain limited, sources indicated that the EFCC is examining the flow of funds and the roles played by the entities involved.

    The development adds to ongoing scrutiny of financial activities within Nigeria’s banking sector, as authorities continue efforts to tackle economic crimes.

    The case is already gaining traction in latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today as Nigerians await further updates from the EFCC.

     

  • Native Doctor Collapses in Court as Trial Over Alleged Illegal Practices Is Halted

    There was mild drama at a court in Nnewi, Anambra State, on Friday after a popular native doctor, Ikechukwu Ezenagu, also known as Mmuo Mmili Afulu Anya, reportedly collapsed during proceedings, forcing the suspension of his arraignment.

    Court session abruptly stopped

    The incident occurred as the defendant was being prepared to take his plea, prompting court officials to immediately halt proceedings after he was declared medically unfit to continue.

    Court sources said the situation created tension in the courtroom as attention quickly shifted from the arraignment to his health condition.

    Dispute over his condition

    However, the development took another turn after counsel to the defendant insisted that his client was actually fit to stand trial.

    The lawyer alleged that the accused may have been pretending to be ill in order to delay proceedings, though no medical confirmation was immediately made public.

    Case adjourned to June 2026

    Following the disruption, the court adjourned the matter to June 3, 2026, for continuation of hearing and further legal action.

    The defendant, popularly known as Aka Mmuo, was arrested on Thursday, March 12, 2026, over alleged involvement in illegal practices.

    His arrest followed a wider crackdown in Anambra State targeting traditionalists and native doctors suspected of preparing charms for individuals involved in criminal activities.

    The case has continued to draw attention as it moves through the justice system, featuring in latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today as the next court date approaches.

     

  • NYSC Member Beaten to Death by Vigilantes in Benue After ‘Bike Thief’ Suspicion

    A serving National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, Ben Agir Une, has been beaten to death by a community vigilante group in Buruku Local Government Area of Benue State after he was allegedly mistaken for a motorcycle thief.

    Incident during night patrol

    The killing reportedly occurred late Sunday night between 11 pm and midnight at Mbajor settlement, near the Buruku Local Government Secretariat.

    Une, said to be serving in Gombe State, had returned home on a short break and was weeks away from completing his service year.

    How the attack happened

    Chairman of Buruku LGA, Raymond Aondoakura, confirmed the incident on Thursday, stating that the corps member was apprehended by vigilante members during a patrol.

    He said the group suspected him of being a bike snatcher and attacked him before he could properly identify himself.

    “Before he could explain himself and present his identification card, one of the leaders started beating him,” Aondoakura said.

    The chairman added that the victim was beaten into a coma and later died at a hospital.

    Arrests made, vigilante activities suspended

    Aondoakura confirmed that those involved in the attack have been arrested and handed over to the police for prosecution.

    “We have arrested all of them and handed them to the police for arraignment. We confirmed that the deceased was a serving corps member,” he said.

    He also announced the immediate suspension of vigilante operations in the area, stating that the groups have been disbanded pending proper regulation.

    Victim’s background

    Une was an indigene of Tongov in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area and was expected to complete his NYSC programme next month before the incident.

    Police yet to comment

    As of the time of filing this report, the Benue State Police Command had not issued an official statement on the development.

    The incident has sparked concern across communities and is trending in latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today amid calls for accountability and justice.

     

  • Blessing CEO Apologises Over Cancer Claim Controversy, Offers Refunds to Donors

    Nigerian influencer Blessing Okoro, popularly known as Blessing CEO, has issued a public apology following backlash over her claim of battling stage four cancer, a situation that has triggered intense online scrutiny and debate.

    How the controversy started

    The issue gained attention after Blessing shared a medical report online while soliciting financial support for her treatment.

    However, the document was later disputed by Xinus Medical Diagnostics, which alleged it was altered and originally issued to another patient. The claim escalated further after the individual linked to the report publicly reacted, leading to petitions and calls for investigation, including from the Nigerian Cancer Society.

    Blessing CEO breaks silence

    In a statement shared on Instagram on Wednesday, Blessing apologised for the confusion and emotional reactions the matter has generated, while maintaining that her health condition is genuine.

    “I am sorry for the unnecessary drama, embarrassment, and controversy surrounding my health issues,” she wrote.

    She added that she intends to be more transparent moving forward, promising to release detailed medical records.

    “I will start by officially uploading my scan results and biopsy details and keep you all informed every step of the way,” she said.

    Refund offer to supporters

    The influencer also addressed Nigerians who contributed financially to her treatment, expressing gratitude for their support.

    “To well-meaning Nigerians who contributed towards my health, I am deeply grateful,” she said.

    She further stated that anyone uncomfortable with the controversy could request a refund.

    “Kindly send a WhatsApp message or DM with your receipt and account details, and you will be refunded,” she added.

    Medical updates shared

    In follow-up posts, Blessing shared images from medical scans and showed her hand, explaining that repeated procedures had affected her veins.

    “My hands have been through a lot due to repeated punctures,” she wrote.

    Public reactions continue

    The development has continued to spark mixed reactions online, with many users demanding clearer medical evidence while others focus on accountability in online fundraising and influencer-led donations.

    The controversy has also reignited conversations around trust, transparency, and the growing trend of health-related crowdfunding in Nigeria, making it one of the trending issues in latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today.

     

  • DSS Arraigns El-Rufai Over Alleged Wiretapping of Ribadu’s Phone, Files Fresh Charges

    The Department of State Services (DSS) has arraigned former Kaduna governor Nasir el-Rufai before a federal high court in Abuja over allegations of illegally accessing the phone conversation of National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu.

    Fresh charges filed in court

    At Thursday’s proceedings, the prosecution informed the court that the charge had been amended from three to five counts.

    Presiding judge, Justice Joyce Abdulmalik, subsequently struck out the earlier charges and allowed the amended five-count charge to stand.

    El-Rufai, who also served as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, pleaded not guilty to all counts.

    What led to the case

    The charges are linked to remarks made by el-Rufai in February during an interview on Arise Television’s Prime Time programme.

    He had claimed that individuals aligned with him listened to Ribadu’s phone conversation, alleging that the NSA directed security operatives to arrest him.

    “He made the call because we listened to their calls. The government thinks they are the only ones that listen to calls but we also have our ways,” el-Rufai said at the time.

    He further alleged that Ribadu’s phone was tapped and that the information was passed to him.

    Mixed reactions trail allegations

    The comments triggered widespread reactions across Nigeria, with some Nigerians and political stakeholders calling for his arrest over the alleged wiretapping.

    Others, however, argued that the former governor should not be singled out, accusing the government of similar actions against citizens.

    Political tension in the background

    El-Rufai, once a strong ally of President Bola Tinubu, has in recent months been openly critical of the administration and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

    His arraignment has been described by opposition figures as politically motivated, though the federal government has denied any witch-hunt.

    The case is expected to continue in court as attention builds around one of the most talked-about developments in latest Nigerian news and breaking news Nigeria today.

  • FG Files 13-Count Charge Against Sylva, Others Over Alleged Coup Plot

    The Federal Government has filed a 13-count charge against former Bayelsa State governor, Timipre Sylva, and six others over an alleged plot to overthrow President Bola Tinubu, in a case now before the Federal High Court in Abuja.

    The charges, bordering on treason, terrorism and money laundering, were filed on Tuesday by the Director of Public Prosecutions of the Federation, Rotimi Oyedepo, under suit number FHC/ABJ/CR/206/2026.

    Who is involved

    Sylva, a former minister under the Muhammadu Buhari administration, is listed as the seventh defendant but is currently at large, with authorities expected to proceed against him in absentia if he fails to appear.

    Other defendants include retired Major General Mohammed Ibrahim Gana, retired Naval Captain Erasmus Ochegobia Victor, Inspector Ahmed Ibrahim, Zekeri Umoru, Bukar Kashim Goni, and Abdulkadir Sani.

    They are expected to be arraigned before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court in Abuja.

    Breakdown of charges

    Court documents show that the 13-count charge revolves around allegations of conspiracy, failure to disclose intelligence, terrorism-related activities and financial crimes linked to terrorism financing.

    The key charges include:

    • Conspiracy to wage war against Nigeria in a bid to overawe the President
    • Failure to disclose knowledge of an alleged treason plot to authorities
    • Failure to take steps to prevent the commission of treason
    • Conspiracy to commit acts of terrorism within Nigeria
    • Participation in meetings linked to acts of terrorism
    • Providing support to individuals planning terrorist acts
    • Withholding information that could prevent or expose terrorism activities
    • Retention and handling of funds suspected to be proceeds of terrorism financing
    • Acceptance of large cash payments outside formal financial systems
    • Money laundering through bank accounts linked to alleged unlawful activities

    Financial allegations

    Specific counts detail financial transactions allegedly tied to terrorism financing, including claims that some defendants received millions of naira through bank accounts or cash payments believed to be proceeds of unlawful acts.

    These include ₦50 million allegedly traced to Bukar Kashim Goni, ₦10 million cash reportedly received by Zekeri Umoru, and smaller amounts linked to other defendants.

    Court proceedings

    The Federal Government is prosecuting the case as part of efforts to address threats to national security and uphold Nigeria’s constitutional order.

    The arraignment is expected to mark the beginning of a closely watched legal battle, given the high-profile individuals involved and the gravity of the allegations.

    Wider context

    Nigeria has maintained uninterrupted democratic governance since 1999, despite a history of military coups in earlier decades and recent instability in parts of West Africa.

    The case adds to growing concerns about internal security threats, as authorities intensify efforts to prevent actions that could undermine the country’s democratic system.

     

  • FG Moves to Extradite Sylva Over Alleged Coup Plot Against Tinubu

    The Federal Government has begun moves to extradite former Bayelsa State governor, Timipre Sylva, over his alleged involvement in a coup plot targeting President Bola Tinubu, as fresh details emerge in the high-profile case.

    Sylva, who is listed as the seventh defendant in the charge, is reportedly on the run and is currently being tried in absentia, raising concerns about his whereabouts and the pace of proceedings.

    Extradition plan underway

    Sources revealed that authorities have enlisted the International Criminal Police Organisation (INTERPOL) to help track and return the former minister to Nigeria, in a bid to ensure he faces prosecution alongside other accused persons.

    The move signals a more aggressive push by the government to bring all defendants before the court, especially those currently outside its immediate reach.

    Six defendants to face trial

    Meanwhile, the Federal Government is set to arraign six other suspects before the Federal High Court in Abuja over the same alleged coup plot, marking the next phase of the legal process.

    The defendants include retired Major General Mohammed Ibrahim Gana, retired Naval Captain Erasmus Ochegobia Victor, Inspector Ahmed Ibrahim, Zekeri Umoru, Bukar Kashim Goni, and Abdulkadir Sani.

    Court proceedings begin

    The suit was filed by the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, on behalf of the Federal Government, as authorities move to prosecute those linked to the alleged plot.

    All six defendants are expected to appear before Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court in Abuja, where proceedings are set to commence.

    Sylva still at large

    Despite being named in the charge, Sylva remains at large, with efforts ongoing to secure his return through international cooperation.

    The case has continued to draw attention as one of the most sensitive security-related prosecutions in recent times.