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In a recent statement, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Limited has clarified that products from the Port Harcourt Refining Company (PHRC) are not yet available for bulk sales to oil marketers. The announcement, issued on Friday by the Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Olufemi Soneye, emphasized that essential processes are still underway, and the purchase portal remains closed. NNPC explained that the petroleum products currently available in the market are sourced from the Dangote Refinery. These products are sold in accordance with the applicable pricing structure set by the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA). The statement also highlighted that, for now, PHRC products are only available through NNPC’s retail outlets. The company urged the public to disregard any misinformation regarding the sale or pricing of PHRC products and assured that any future changes in pricing would be communicated through official channels. NNPC’s...

A devastating fire broke out on Friday night, engulfing multiple buildings in the Idumota Spare Parts Market, Lagos, and destroying property worth hundreds of millions of naira. According to the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), the fire incident was reported through the agency’s emergency toll-free lines at 10:20 pm. The LASEMA Response Teams from Lekki, Cappa, and Alausa Command promptly mobilized to the scene, arriving at 10:55 pm to find several shops consumed by the raging inferno. In a statement released on Saturday, LASEMA’s Permanent Secretary, Dr. Olufemi Oke-Osanyintolu, confirmed that the fire gutted multiple buildings used for the sale of automobile spare parts. Although the exact cause of the fire remains unknown, preliminary reports indicate extensive damage. Coordinated Emergency Response LASEMA’s Shark and Tiger Response Teams, alongside the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service and the Federal Fire Service, collaborated to contain the blaze and prevent it...

The Federal Polytechnic, Mubi, Adamawa State, has been accused of corrupt practices and arbitrary spendings by its governing council. The call for probe was made by human rights lawyer, Mohammad Aliyu, on behalf of Mubi concerned citizens. The lawyer asked the Independent Corrupt Practices and other related offences commission (ICPC) to investigate the expenditure of the governing council of the Federal Polytechnic Mubi. Aliyu alleged gross violation of extant Rules and Regulations in the Management, distribution and reckless spending of scarce resources of the institution. The petition noted that this development is contrary to the provisions of the Public Procurement Act, 2007 and the Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Act, 2000. "To be more specific, the Polytechnic has spent over N100,000,000 on protocol services within the two months since the Council Chairman and his members took over". "If this pattern is allowed to continue without proper investigation...

  In a bold move to protect young Australians from the dangers of the digital world, the Australian Parliament has passed legislation banning children under the age of 16 from accessing social media platforms. Set to take effect in 2025, the law imposes hefty penalties of up to AUD 50 million on companies that fail to comply. This landmark legislation aims to combat issues such as online predators, cyberbullying, and the growing pressure of social media on mental health. Government’s Rationale Lawmakers believe the ban is necessary to shield children from harmful online experiences. "We have a duty to ensure the safety of our children in both the physical and digital worlds," said a government spokesperson. The new law will require social media companies to implement strict age verification measures to prevent underage users from creating accounts. Mixed Reactions from Experts While the government's intentions are clear, many experts are skeptical about the law's enfo...

“I hear people say Nigerians are not worth fighting for. I’ve always disbelieved it. Yesterday, you proved me right,” Soyombo wrote after his release. “My detention by the Nigerian Army lasted only three days because of your social media engagements with #FreeFisayoNow and the coverage by traditional media. Without your pressure, I would still be in that cell, away from civilization.” Soyombo was arrested in the early hours of Wednesday and interrogated extensively. “I was grilled by different levels of the Army until late into the night,” he revealed, adding that the Army had initially planned to prolong his detention under the guise of an ongoing investigation. However, the tide changed when widespread public attention was drawn to his plight. On Friday morning, during a transfer to the Military Intelligence Brigade, a military officer recognized Soyombo from the media reports and acknowledged, “You’re the one; you’re in the news.” This recognition, fueled by public engagement, led t...

In a major breakthrough, the Nigeria Police Force announced the arrest of five suspects involved in trans-border gunrunning and the recovery of 17 firearms and ammunition. The arrests were made by the Force Intelligence Bureau - Intelligence Response Team (FID-IRT) on November 18, 2024. The Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, revealed the suspects' identities as Adamu Noma, Matthew Audu, Andrew Poyi, Aminu Sani, and Aminu Talha. Upon their apprehension, the police recovered an alarming cache of weapons, including 10 locally fabricated AK-47 rifles, five Israeli AK-47 rifles, a revolver pistol, a pump-action shotgun, 20 rounds of AK-47 ammunition, and a welding machine used for weapon fabrication. “These feats, along with numerous others, underscore the steadfastness and commitment of the current police leadership to combat criminal activities and enhance security across the country,” Adejobi stated. The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, ha...

The Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism at the University of Oxford has strongly condemned the arrest and detention of its alumnus, investigative journalist Fisayo Soyombo, by the Nigerian Army. In a statement released on Friday, the Institute expressed deep concern over the treatment of Soyombo, emphasizing that "journalism is not a crime." Soyombo, who is widely known for his courageous reporting on corruption and abuse of power in Nigeria, was reportedly detained by the 6 Division of the Nigerian Army in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. According to SaharaReporters, the arrest occurred after he was allegedly found at an illegal bunkering site, though many believe his detention is linked to his investigative work exposing corruption within the Nigerian Customs Service. In their statement, the Reuters Institute reaffirmed its support for Soyombo, highlighting his exceptional contributions to journalism. “We are proud to have hosted Fisayo Soyombo as a journalist fello...

Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, has expressed disappointment over President Bola Tinubu’s decision to release minors detained during the August #EndBadGovernance protests, arguing that they should have been placed in remand homes as a corrective measure. In remarks delivered on Wednesday, Governor Zulum criticized the federal government's handling of the situation, stating that the release of the minors missed an opportunity to instill discipline. He asserted that the minors' detention could have served as a deterrent to others considering similar acts of dissent. "I was not happy with how the Federal Government released the minors who were arrested during the August #EndBadGovernance protest," Zulum said. "Though I'm happy about their release, the Federal Government should not have charged them with treason. However, instead of completely freeing them, they should have been taken to a remand home or rehabilitation center. This would have served as a d...

In a stark warning to the federal government, Governor Babagana Umara Zulum of Borno State has voiced his strong opposition to the tax reform bills currently advancing in the National Assembly, warning that they could jeopardize the financial stability of northern states and other regions. He stated that if the bills become law, it may become impossible for states to pay salaries, further worsening poverty, hunger, and insecurity. The controversial bills, transmitted to the National Assembly by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in September, have sparked widespread criticism, especially from northern stakeholders, including governors, traditional rulers, and the Northern Elders Forum. Despite these protests, the Senate passed the bills for a second reading on Thursday amidst rowdy scenes in the plenary. In an interview with BBC Hausa, Zulum expressed dismay at the bills’ rapid progress compared to other critical legislation, such as the Petroleum Industry Bill, which took nearly two decades ...

In a case highlighting contrasting judicial actions, Barrister Aloy Ejimakor, Special Counsel to Nnamdi Kanu, the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has drawn attention to the Federal High Court’s differing treatment of two high-profile cases. Ejimakor criticized the court for rejecting the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission’s (EFCC) request to arraign former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello without his lawyers, while pointing out that the same court held Kanu’s hearing in 2021 without his legal counsel present. On Friday, November 29, Justice Emeka Nwite refused to proceed with Bello’s arraignment due to the absence of his legal team, stressing that it would violate the principle of fair hearing. Bello, who faces a 19-count charge of money laundering amounting to N80.2 billion, informed the court that he had only been notified of the arraignment late on November 28, which prevented him from contacting his lawyers. Justice Nwite ruled that the arraignment ...

A witness, John Adetola, has testified in the ongoing trial of the former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Godwin Emefiele, revealing how he delivered $400,000 to Emefiele in 2018. The trial, presided over by Justice Oshodi at the Lagos High Court, Ikeja, centers on allegations of financial misconduct. Adetola, who served as Emefiele’s Executive Assistant, stated that his responsibilities included managing office correspondences, attending to visitors, and handling tasks assigned directly by Emefiele. He claimed that in 2018, he received instructions via WhatsApp from Eric Odoh, Emefiele’s personal assistant in Abuja, to collect the sum from John Ayoh, the former Director of the ICT Department. “I went to John Ayoh’s house in Lekki, Lagos, collected the envelope containing the $400,000, and delivered it to the former CBN Governor in Lagos,” Adetola testified. EFCC Investigation Adetola disclosed that in February 2023, he was summoned by the Economic and Financial Crimes C...

Renowned Nigerian gospel artist Sinach is at the center of a N5 billion lawsuit filed by music producer Michael Oluwole, popularly known as Maye, over the copyright of her internationally celebrated song Way Maker. The lawsuit, filed under suit number FHC/L/CS/402/2024 at the Federal High Court in Lagos, alleges that Sinach infringed on Maye's intellectual property rights. Maye claims to be the co-author and co-owner of Way Maker, demanding compensation for what he describes as years of unauthorized use and exclusion from royalties. He asserts that his contributions were instrumental in the song's creation, a claim Sinach categorically denies. Sinach, whose real name is Osinachi Kalu Okoro Egbu, insists she is the sole creator of the 2016 hit. Her legal team has highlighted her long-standing reputation in gospel music, emphasizing that her success precedes the release of Way Maker. The case was first heard on November 27, 2024, with both parties presenting their initial argume...

In a controversial move that has sparked widespread outrage, the Nigeria Police Force arrested Dr. Fabian Ihekweme, a former commissioner in Imo State, from his Abuja residence on Wednesday. Ihekweme, known for his outspoken criticism of Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma, was taken away in the presence of his wife and children, according to reports from SaharaReporters. Sources confirmed that the ex-commissioner was swiftly transported to Owerri, Imo State, after the arrest. Human rights lawyer Deji Adeyanju publicly condemned the arrest via Twitter on Thursday, describing it as an alarming assault on free speech. Adeyanju tweeted: “Dr Fabian Ihekweme, a critic, was abducted by policemen yesterday in front of his wife and children in their Abuja home and taken to Owerri. His crime: criticizing Hope Uzodinma, Imo state governor. Like Uzodinma, like Burna Boy.” The reference to Burna Boy appears to draw a parallel between Governor Uzodinma and the popular Nigerian artist’s alleged intoler...

In a recent interview, Merkel pointed out that Musk's control of approximately 60% of the world's satellites, primarily through SpaceX’s Starlink network, raised questions about the balance of power between private enterprises and sovereign governments. She emphasized the need for clear regulatory frameworks to prevent any one entity from wielding disproportionate influence over global communication and security systems. However, Musk, known for his brash online persona, fired back on his platform, X (formerly Twitter), mocking Merkel’s concerns. In a sarcastic tweet, he questioned, "Who is this Angela Merkin person?"—a comment that quickly went viral, igniting a flurry of reactions. Some praised Musk’s irreverent humor, while others accused him of disrespecting a globally respected stateswoman. Merkel's critique wasn’t limited to Musk. She also reflected on former U.S. President Donald Trump, cautioning against his "win-lose" approach to global politics...

In a bold statement, a coalition of 95 civil society organizations has called on the Nigerian government, led by President Bola Tinubu, to end the practice of employing armed militants to protect oil pipelines in the Niger Delta. The coalition warned that continuing this policy risks reigniting armed conflict and destabilizing the already volatile region. The Civil Society Coalition for Mandate Protection (CSC-MAP) and the National Coalition of Civil Society Groups (NCCSG) issued a joint statement on Wednesday, highlighting the dangers posed by entrusting militants with critical national infrastructure. They expressed concerns over reports that a particular militant leader is allegedly using profits from these contracts to import illicit weapons, threatening Nigeria’s national security. Call for Professional Security Engagement The coalition urged the government to partner with indigenous, professional security firms dedicated to safeguarding the nation’s oil assets. “It is not right t...

In a significant development, a Finnish court has set May 2025 as the deadline for prosecutors to present charges against Simon Ekpa, a controversial Biafran separatist leader, for terrorism-related offenses. Mikko Laaksonen, Senior Detective Superintendent at Finland’s National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), confirmed the timeline on Tuesday, stating that the case is progressing in the Päijät-Häme District Court. Ekpa, who has styled himself as the "Prime Minister" of the Biafra Republic Government-in-Exile, was arrested last week along with four other individuals. They are suspected of various terrorism-related activities, including incitement to violence and financing terrorism. Finnish authorities allege that Ekpa used social media platforms to incite violence in Nigeria’s South-East region, targeting civilians, government officials, and critical infrastructure. According to the Finnish news outlet Yle, Ekpa has been remanded on charges of public incitement to commit crim...

Lagos, Nigeria — The Nigerian Police Force has apprehended Chinedu Ernest Ngwaka, a self-proclaimed Bureau De Change (BDC) operator, for his involvement in a ₦320 million fraud scheme. The arrest, announced by ASP Mayegun Aminat, Police Public Relations Officer of the Force CID Annex, Lagos, was made following a petition filed by Chinedu Laz and Partners (Deo Gratia Chambers) on behalf of Mr. Tochukwu Unachukwu, Managing Director of Casco Electronics Company Limited. The petition, submitted on September 9, 2024, detailed how Mr. Unachukwu paid a total of ₦320 million to Ngwaka and his wife, Janet Onyekachi Ngwaka, through their companies—Edunaco Multiple Resources Limited and Bright Janes World. The funds were intended to procure $200,000 USD for the importation of goods from China. However, investigations revealed that no such funds were received by the Chinese suppliers, and fraudulent documents, including a falsified telex confirmation from Zenith Bank, were used to mislead Mr. Una...

  In a harrowing incident reported by The Economic Times, three men lost their lives when their taxi plunged off an unfinished bridge in India, allegedly following directions provided by Google Maps. The men were traveling to attend a wedding at night when the tragic accident occurred, leaving them unaware of the bridge’s incomplete state. The vehicle was discovered the next day by locals who found it lying beneath the structure. Local officials confirmed that the car was using Google Maps to navigate at the time. A grieving family member of one of the victims blamed both the app and the absence of proper road barricades, saying, “They were checking the route using Google Maps and fell from the incomplete bridge. The road should have been blocked, but it wasn’t. The maps shouldn’t have shown that the bridge was complete.” This tragic event is not an isolated case. In 2022, a North Carolina man’s family sued Google after he died when Maps reportedly directed him onto a collapsed bri...

In a shocking twist of fate, an X user, Ugo (@Deputyzaddy), has revealed a personal connection to the harrowing Mile 2 accident that occurred on November 26th. In his tweet, Ugo shared the unbelievable news: "I just found out that the person who was involved in that Mile 2 accident yesterday where a trailer fell on a car was actually my in-law. He was under that container for 3 hours. Came out without a single scratch, no injuries. I’m still trying to get over this shock." The incident, which involved a 40-foot container crushing a car along the busy route to the Apapa Ports, made headlines due to the miraculous survival of the driver. Despite being trapped for hours under the massive container, the man emerged unscathed, a development that continues to baffle and amaze onlookers. The tweet quickly garnered attention, with X users expressing their astonishment. Ijeoma Ann (@IjeomaAnn3) urged a celebratory response, commenting: "You all should follow him to church on Sund...

Warri, Delta State — In a shocking development, David Odeli, a prominent grassroots community leader, was abducted today by unknown gunmen in the New Layout area of Egbokodo community in Warri. Eyewitnesses report that the assailants, arriving in two black Hilux vehicles, forcefully seized Odeli and fled with his personal car. Mrs. Esanye Odeli, the victim's wife, confirmed the abduction, stating that the incident occurred on Aje Street, where her husband was taken without warning. Contrary to initial assumptions of kidnapping for ransom, emerging details suggest the incident may be linked to recent unrest surrounding the burning of the Dibi flow station operated by Chevron. A local community leader, speaking on condition of anonymity, corroborated the event and revealed that community leaders are working diligently to trace Odeli’s whereabouts and ensure his safe return. The incident has heightened concerns in the region, already strained by conflicts related to oil exploration an...

Nnewi, Anambra State – Tragedy struck in Nnewi on Tuesday evening as gunmen attacked the Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing (IVM) motorcycle showroom along Owerri Road, abducting three persons. The attack, which occurred at approximately 6:45 p.m., has raised concerns over the growing insecurity in the region. The Anambra State Police Command has confirmed the incident. In a statement released by the Command's Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the police disclosed that a joint security operation has been launched to rescue the abductees and apprehend the perpetrators. SP Ikenga assured the public of the Command's commitment to resolving the situation. "The Police Command is determined and is already working with information obtained from the scene for the ongoing rescue operations," he said. He also appealed to the public for cooperation, urging anyone with relevant information to report to the Command headquarters in Awka or the nearest police station. The inc...

Port Harcourt, Nigeria — Insiders at the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) have revealed that the Port Harcourt Refinery's secondary units remain non-operational despite the refinery's recent reopening. According to sources, the blending of "Crack C5" with Naphtha to produce Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol, could have adverse effects on vehicles. Refinery Operations Under Scrutiny NNPCL sources confirmed to SaharaReporters on Wednesday that the secondary processing units essential for producing refined gasoline are yet to be commissioned. Instead, the company has resorted to blending Crack C5—a modified petroleum resin—with Naphtha from the primary units to create a petrol substitute. “Blending is a standard refining practice, but typically, PMS is produced through reformate from the secondary units. These units are not yet operational, so the blend with Crack C5 is a stopgap measure,” a top NNPCL source explained. Currently, on...

In a significant development, the Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the remand of former Kogi State Governor, Yahaya Bello, in the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) until December 10. The decision was made after the court adjourned his trial and deferred the ruling on his bail application. Bello, who pleaded "not guilty" to the 16-count charge of fraud and money laundering, faced opposition from the EFCC regarding his bail request. The charges against him allege the mismanagement of state funds, embezzlement, and abuse of office, with the total sum involved exceeding N110 billion. The courtroom proceedings were marked by chaos as Bello's supporters flooded the premises, prompting him to intervene and order them to leave, ensuring a more orderly environment. Justice Maryann Anenih presided over the hearing, taking pleas from Bello and his co-defendants. Representing the federal government, Kemi Pinheiro SAN led the prosecution, while Jos...

Nigerian Afrobeats superstar, David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, has raised concerns over a plot to cancel his much-anticipated December concert in Lagos due to controversial remarks he made about Nigeria’s economy. The controversy stems from Davido’s appearance on the American podcast Big Homies House, where he advised Americans against relocating to Africa, particularly Nigeria, citing the nation’s struggling economy. His remarks ignited widespread criticism from Nigerians at home and abroad, with many accusing him of tarnishing the country’s image. Prominent figures, including Joe Igbokwe and Reno Omokri, publicly condemned Davido’s comments. They argued that such statements could harm Nigeria's global reputation, especially coming from one of its most prominent entertainers. In response to the backlash, Davido defended his stance, insisting that artists like him are the true ambassadors of Nigeria. He took to X (formerly Twitter), posting, “Y’all mad ‘cause we the real a...

In a statement that has left many stunned, tech billionaire Elon Musk has declared himself a "3,000-year-old time-traveling vampire alien" who is trying to return to his home planet. Known for his eccentric remarks, Musk’s latest claim has set social media ablaze with reactions ranging from amusement to bewilderment. The revelation came during a series of posts on X (formerly Twitter), where Musk frequently engages with his followers. In one instance, after sharing a meme about playing bagpipes at 2:30 a.m., a user jokingly asked if Musk’s sleeplessness was due to being a vampire. Musk responded by confirming, “I’m a time-traveling vampire,” and added that he was also an alien. This response was accompanied by an earlier tweet where he admitted, “I’m actually a 3,000-year-old vampire. It’s such a trial assuming all these false identities over the centuries!” Bold Moves in Politics Musk’s otherworldly claim comes on the heels of a significant political move. Following Donald T...

The Petroleum Products Retail Outlets Owners Association of Nigeria (PETROAN) has raised concerns over the significant price disparity between Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) supplied by the old Port Harcourt Refinery and the Dangote Refinery. PETROAN’s Public Relations Officer, Dr. Joseph Obele, revealed that petrol from the Port Harcourt Refinery is sold at N1,045 per litre, while Dangote Refinery sells at N970 per litre — a difference of N75 per litre. Obele highlighted the financial strain this N75 differential places on petrol marketers, stressing that the margin is substantial in a highly competitive market where profitability is closely tied to pricing. He made this statement during the reopening ceremony of the Port Harcourt Refinery, which is currently producing at a capacity of 60,000 barrels per day. The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) recently confirmed that the old Port Harcourt Refinery is operational, producing 1.4 million liters of PMS daily by blending S...

A recent audit of the Adamawa State Government’s financial activities for the 2023 fiscal year has unveiled alarming fiscal irregularities. The report highlights the release of N325.1 million without the required supporting documentation, in clear violation of the state's financial regulations. According to the audit, the Office of the Head of Civil Service paid out a staggering N230 million without providing the necessary documentation. The auditors scrutinized 15 payment vouchers, collectively amounting to N230.5 million, and found them lacking proper records. This contravenes Section 0603 (I) of Adamawa State’s financial regulations. The report also revealed that the Area Court divisions disbursed N15.8 million without relevant documentation. Similarly, the High Court of Justice in the state paid out N41.953 million, again without adhering to the prescribed financial protocols. These expenditures were flagged as not being in the public interest. Other concerning financial misste...

Abuja, Nigeria — Former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello has pleaded not guilty to 16 charges of money laundering brought against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The arraignment took place at the Federal High Court in Abuja on Wednesday, marking a pivotal moment in the high-profile trial centered on alleged financial misconduct during his tenure as governor from 2016 to 2023. The courtroom descended into chaos early in the proceedings as a large group of Bello's supporters stormed the premises, disrupting the session. In an effort to restore order, Bello instructed his aides and supporters to leave the courtroom. Once calm was restored, Justice Maryann Anenih proceeded with the formal plea from Bello and two co-defendants. Legal Teams Square Off Kemi Pinheiro, SAN, is leading the prosecution on behalf of the federal government, while Joseph Bodunde Dauda, SAN, heads Bello’s defense team. Both sides are prepared for a contentious legal battle that could ...

The Nigerian Naira made a significant gain in the parallel market yesterday, appreciating to ₦1,755 per dollar from ₦1,770 on Monday. This marks a positive turn for the local currency, reflecting improved market sentiments. In the Nigerian Autonomous Foreign Exchange Market (NAFEM), the Naira also appreciated, closing at ₦1,659.44 per dollar compared to ₦1,675.62 on Monday. Data from FMDQ showed that the NAFEM exchange rate appreciated by ₦16.18, signaling increased market activity and demand stability. A remarkable surge in dollar turnover was observed in NAFEM, with trading volume rising by 219.5% to $425.98 million from $108.79 million on Monday. This substantial increase in traded volume underscores heightened market confidence and liquidity. The narrowing gap between the parallel market and the NAFEM rate is another notable development. The margin fell to ₦95.56 per dollar from ₦117.38 on Monday, signaling potential convergence in exchange rates across different markets. Market an...

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has accused Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo of mismanaging over N30 billion left by his predecessor, Godwin Obaseki, within just 14 days of assuming office. The allegations were made by Dr. Anthony Aziegbemi, Chairman of the PDP Edo State Caretaker Committee, during a press conference titled "State of the Nation Address." According to Aziegbemi, the funds were allegedly used to reward political "godfathers" who supported Okpebholo's victory in the September 2024 governorship election. He also claimed that the state government had failed to pay November salaries to civil and public workers, marking a departure from the PDP-led administration’s consistent record of paying salaries before the 26th of each month. "The PDP administration paid salaries on or before the 25th of every month for eight years. As of today, November salaries have not been paid, despite the N30 billion left in the coffers. The money has been shared...

Popular Nigerian musician, Darlington Okoye, known by his stage name Speed Darlington, or AKPI, has been arrested by the Nigerian Police during a show in Owerri, Imo State. Human rights lawyer Deji Adeyanju confirmed the arrest in a statement shared on his official Facebook page. “Our client Speed Darlington a.k.a AKPI has been arrested by the Nigerian police in Owerri at his show upon return to Nigeria,” Adeyanju wrote, adding that the reason for the arrest remains unclear. Reports indicate that this may be linked to a previous case involving allegations of cyberstalking against fellow musician Damini Ogulu, popularly known as Burna Boy. SaharaReporters recently reported that Darlington had previously been detained at the IGP's Intelligence Response Team facility in Guzape, Abuja, following a petition allegedly filed by Burna Boy. Adeyanju previously visited Darlington during his earlier detention and stated that the petition did not justify the arrest. “I have met Speed Darlingto...

Effurun, Delta State — Former Nigerian President, Goodluck Jonathan, has made a compelling call for national unity, emphasizing that ethnic loyalty has hindered Nigeria’s progress. Speaking at a forum in Effurun, Jonathan lamented the deepening divisions among the nation's ethnic groups, which he believes have prevented a collective approach to development. Jonathan stressed the need for federal legislators to see themselves as representatives of the entire nation rather than their specific ethnic or regional groups. He urged leaders at all levels to adopt policies and projects that prioritize unity over short-term political gain. "You are a member of the Nigerian National Assembly, not the assembly of your people at the state level," Jonathan said. "We must begin to take the whole country as our people if we are to get out of this quagmire." He pointed out that Nigeria is not unique in its ethnic diversity but has struggled to cultivate a sense of national iden...

  The Kano State government has reported a staggering N44 billion loss on its foreign debt obligations in 2023, primarily driven by the depreciation of the naira against the U.S. dollar. This development, outlined in the state's 2023 audited financial report, is expected to place significant strain on its finances, potentially impacting the delivery of essential public services. According to the report, the state recorded a loss of N44,074,983,000 under "Loss from Exchange on Foreign Debts," a sharp increase from the N2.69 billion recorded in 2022. In addition, public debt charges totaled N6.12 billion in 2023, slightly lower than the N6.84 billion spent in 2022. A review of the state's budget performance for the second quarter of 2024 by Sahara Reporters revealed that Kano State spent a staggering N60 billion on public debt charges between April and June. This expenditure far exceeded the N4.6 billion allocated for debt servicing in the entire 2024 budget. The breakd...