RWGBLOG NEWS

A Nigerian cleric, Sam Olu Alo, has thrown his weight behind the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) over the date fixed for the 2027 general elections, urging Nigerians not to politicise the timetable. INEC announced that the presidential and National Assembly elections will hold on February 20, 2027, while governorship and state Houses of Assembly polls are scheduled for March 6, 2027. Speaking after his church’s 41-day fasting and prayer programme in Lagos, Alo dismissed objections to conducting the elections during the Muslim fasting period. “My advice is that in fasting we promote the truth, and that won’t give room for us to man+pulate things,” he said, adding that the sacred season would encourage voters and political actors to act with sincerity and the fear of God. He questioned why concerns were being raised now, noting that past elections had been held during Christian fasting periods without controversy. Alo urged Nigerians to avoid religious sentim...

Nigerian singer Timi Dakolo has opened up about the emotional and financial pressure men face, saying society expects them to provide without complaint while denying them the space to be vulnerable. Speaking during a recent podcast, Dakolo reflected on the heavy expectations placed on men to constantly show strength. According to him, men are told to speak up, but when they do, they are often judged. “They say make we talk, but when we talk and tears fall, they say we be weak,” he said. He questioned why people rarely consider the emotional needs of the man everyone depends on. “Who helps the person that helps everybody?” he asked, pointing out that many assume a provider already has support simply because he appears strong. Dakolo added that beyond rent, school fees, and daily expenses, men also battle internal fears and insecurities but suppress them to avoid seeming weak. Despite the pressure, he said moments of appreciation make it worthwhile. Recounting how his daughte...

Groom Cancels Wedding After Finding Fiancée’s Old Sm0k!ng Photo A groom in Imo State reportedly cancelled his wedding after finding an old social media photo of his fiancée allegedly smoking cannabis.  Despite her pleas that the image was from her past and no longer reflected her lifestyle, mediation efforts failed, and the wedding was called off.

A councillor in Zamfara State, Abubakar Muhammad Tahir, has launched an empowerment initiative aimed at supporting members of his constituency through the distribution of charcoal and locally made pressing irons. The gesture, which took place in his ward, was designed to assist residents—particularly small-scale traders and households—in coping with economic challenges and generating income. Beneficiaries expressed appreciation for the support, noting that the items would help ease daily living costs and boost small business activities. Speaking during the distribution exercise, Tahir said the initiative forms part of his commitment to grassroots development and improving the welfare of his constituents.  He reaffirmed his dedication to implementing people-oriented programs that directly impact lives at the community level. Community leaders and residents commended the councillor for the thoughtful intervention, describing it as a practical step toward empowering vulner...

First Batch of U.S. Troops Arrive in Nigeria for Anti-T+rror Mission The first wave of U.S. military personnel has arrived in Nigeria, marking the start of a deployment of roughly 200 American intelligence analysts, advisers, and trainers to assist Nigerian forces in targeted countert+rrorism operations, partly aimed at protecting Christians.

A tragic incident unfolded at the popular Oil Mill Market in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, leaving two persons dead following alleged police gunfire. According to eyewitness accounts, the crisis began after a disagreement between a wheelbarrow pusher, identified simply as Mallam, and a trader at the bustling market. The altercation reportedly escalated when Mallam’s brother allegedly stabbed the trader in the chest, throwing the area into chaos. In a bid to restore calm and disperse the growing crowd, police officers at the scene were said to have fired warning shots into the air. However, in the process, two innocent bystanders were reportedly struck by bullets, resulting in their deaths. The incident has sparked tension within the market community, with traders and residents calling for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting. Authorities are yet to release an official statement on the matter. ...

Nollywood actor, Yul Edochie, has addressed comments credited to his father, Pete Edochie, who reportedly said he was not aware of his son’s marriage to Judy Austin. Speaking in a recent interview, Yul said his father is entitled to his opinion and that the remark did not affect him in any way.  Asked why he thought his father made the statement, the 44-year-old actor responded, “He’s entitled to whatever he wants to say. Why he decided to say it is in his mind.” On how it made him feel, Yul was emphatic, “I didn’t feel anything.” The actor stressed that his love and respect for his father remain unwavering, describing the veteran thespian as a man who did his best raising six children. “I love him. I respect him. He cannot get me angry.  No matter what he says, I’m not moved,” Yul said, adding that even at his age, he would still kneel or obey any instruction from his father out of deep respect. However, he maintained that as an adult, his personal decisions are h...

As President, Some Days I Did Not Sleep Up To 2 Hours - Goodluck Jonathan Calls for Lower Age Limits for Political Offices in Africa Goodluck Jonathan has urged African countries to lower age limits for political offices, recommending a 25–50 age range.  He argued that younger leaders are more energetic, mentally sharp, and better suited to handle the demands of governance.

Tragedy has struck following the death of a newly admitted student, Godwin Ebirien, just days after commencing his academic journey at the Federal University of Environment and Technology, Saakpenwa. Godwin, who had recently participated in the institution’s matriculation ceremony, reportedly passed away under circumstances that have sparked concern among students, community members, and stakeholders. His sudden death has raised calls for transparency and accountability from the university authorities. Family members, friends, and concerned residents are urging the institution to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident. They have also called for anyone found responsible to be brought to justice. The late Godwin Ebirien was a native of Unyeada town in Andoni Local Government Area. His death has left his community in mourning, with many describing him as a promising young individual whose life was cut short at the early stage of h...

The founder of Salvation Ministries, Pastor David Ibiyeomie, has responded to reports surrounding his luxury wristwatch collection. According to him, he did not purchase the watches making rounds on social media, stating that many of them were gifted to him. He added that his collection is valued at over $2 million and revealed that he has not worn half of them. The cleric further remarked that the watches currently being displayed online are among the least expensive in his collection, noting that critics would be overwhelmed if they saw his most valuable timepieces.

The State High Court sitting in Port Harcourt has convicted and sentenced to death by hanging, four out of thirteen individuals standing trial over the killing of the former Divisional Police Officer of Ahoada East Police Division, SP  Bako Amgbashin. The court presided over by Justice Sika Aprioku also convicted and sentenced the 6th defendant, Samuel Nwadinma, to three years imprisonment for conspiracy, while the third accused was discharged and acquitted of the four counts of conspiracy, murder, membership of a secret cult group and robbery. Recall that in June 2025, the police command in Rivers said its operatives arrested two suspected cultists over the killing of Bako Angbashim.  In September 2023, Angbashim, a superintendent of police, was killed when his team was ambushed while returning from an operation. Days later, Governor Siminalayi Fubara placed a N100 million bounty on Gift Okpara, otherwise known as 2Baba, and his gang for the murder of Angbashim....

His Excellency, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, GSSRS, Governor of Rivers State, has approved the dissolution of the State Executive Council. Following the development, the Governor has directed all Commissioners and Special Advisers to immediately hand over their duties to the Permanent Secretaries or the most senior officers in their respective ministries. Governor Fubara expressed his profound appreciation to the outgoing members of the Executive Council for their service to the state and wished them success in their future endeavours.

Justice Obiora Egwuatu of the Federal High Court has withdrawn from presiding over two cases brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) against Abubakar Malami, Nigeria's former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice. The recusal happened on Thursday during a court session when one of the cases a civil suit seeking the final forfeiture of 57 properties allegedly linked to Mr Malami was called for mention. Justice Egwuatu stated that he was stepping aside for personal reasons and in the interest of justice. The cases had recently been reassigned to him by the Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice John Tsoho, after previously being handled by Justice Emeka Nwite during the court's Christmas vacation period.

Businessman and social commentator Isaac Fayose sparked controversy after a video surfaced on social media criticizing the perceived lack of support for detained IPOB leader Nnamdi Kanu by Igbo leaders. In the video, Fayose said, “My wife is Igbo, so I’m partly Igbo. Igbos are the most gr£edy Nigerians. Sunday Igboho is at home. Sheik Gumi supports Fulani herdsmen. Nnamdi Kanu is in prison but Obi Cubana is wearing Tinubu cap instead of telling FG to release NK.” Citing other activists, he added, “We have Sunday Igboho who is back now and even about to receive a chieftaincy title. Even Gumi is still supporting the t+rrorists with the claim that they are not educated, but no Igbo man is standing for Nnamdi.” Fayose further criticized most Igbo politicians, saying that although they occupy corridors of power, they are unable to rally support for Kanu’s release. He also questioned the source of wealth of some wealthy figures, saying, “And I don’t know their source of wealth. Y...

PENGASSAN says the old Port Harcourt Refinery is 90% rehabilitated and can resume operations within a week if approved by NNPC Ltd. However, profitability concerns may be delaying its restart. Osifo, however, insisted that the refinery is technically ready to function and that the delay in restarting operations is tied more to profitability concerns than mechanical challenges. Full story on Gistlover 

The United States is preparing to deploy about 200 troops to Nigeria to train and support the country’s military in its fight against Islamist insurgents, according to a U.S. official. The move comes weeks after President Donald Trump ordered airstrikes on what he described as Islamic State targets in Nigeria.  Last week, the U.S. military confirmed it had sent a small team of personnel to Nigeria, though it did not disclose the number involved. This marked the first official confirmation of American troops on Nigerian soil since U.S. air operations were carried out on Christmas Day.  President Trump has indicated that further military action could follow. Reuters also reported that the U.S. has been conducting surveillance flights over Nigeria from Ghana since at least late November.  The planned deployment of 200 troops is expected to reinforce a limited number of U.S. military personnel already stationed in the country to assist Nigerian forces. U.S. Africa...

Former Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi, and his son, Chimamkpa, joined the protest over the electronic transmission of election results in Abuja today. The protesters are calling for the approval of real-time electronic transmission of election results from polling units. Amaechi said, “Some people say we politicians encourage protests while our children are abroad. Here is my first son; I brought him to join the protest. He is a medical doctor. His duty is to treat anyone who may be injured.”

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has stated that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will no longer intervene in the lingering political crisis in Rivers State, describing the President’s earlier involvement as a final effort to restore peace. Wike made the disclosure while addressing journalists, noting that Tinubu had already played a significant role in attempting to resolve the dispute between key political actors in the state. He urged the parties involved in the conflict to reach a lasting resolution without expecting further federal mediation. According to the FCT Minister, the President’s previous intervention demonstrated his commitment to stability and good governance in Rivers State. However, Wike emphasized that it was now the responsibility of stakeholders within the state to settle their differences and ensure peace in the interest of residents and development. The Rivers political crisis, which has generated tension within the state’s...

In a recent interview on Trust TV, former Kaduna State governor Nasir El-Rufai spoke on the dynamics of godfatherism in Nigerian politics, highlighting how relationships between political mentors and their protégés often evolve once office changes hands. He cited examples such as former Kano State governor Rabiu Kwankwaso and his godson Kabir Yusuf, as well as FCT Minister Nyesom Wike and his godson Siminalayi Fubara, to illustrate the realities of political succession in Nigeria. El-Rufai stressed his personal approach to leadership and succession, saying, “When I do a job, I move on; I don’t care about or want to control my successor.” He explained that unlike some political actors who attempt to maintain influence over their successors, he believes in allowing officeholders to exercise independence and make decisions in the interest of the public. Drawing from his own experiences as governor, El-Rufai argued that expecting loyalty or control from successors is unrealisti...

The Court of Appeal in Abuja on Monday upheld the Nigerian Senate's suspension of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (PDP, Kogi Central), ruling that the upper chamber acted within its constitutional powers to discipline members for misconduct. A three-member panel, led by Justice Abba Muhammed, delivered a unanimous decision stating that the suspension did not breach the senator's parliamentary privileges or fundamental rights. The court affirmed the Senate President's authority under Senate Rules to allocate seats and deny speaking privileges to members not in their assigned positions. It referenced a February 20, 2025, plenary incident where Akpoti-Uduaghan was denied the floor after sitting in an unallocated seat and reacting angrily to a seat reallocation. The appellate court also dismissed suggestions from a lower court to reconsider the suspension's length and struck out related aspects of the suit for lack of jurisdiction, as the Federal High Court cann...

On Saturday, February 8, 2026, renowned entertainment executive, media entrepreneur, and convener of the Faji Nite Carnival, Tambari Steve, paid a surprise visit to his country home in Kaani. The visit sparked conversations across the community due to the lasting impact of Tambari Steve’s contributions to entertainment, culture, and grassroots development. He was accompanied by ARISE TV reporter, Andy Omano-Omano. As part of the visit, Tambari Steve paid a courtesy visit to His Royal Highness, Mene Godwin Barikpoa Apere of Bua Kaani. The monarch commended Tambari Steve for his selfless service and continuous contributions to the growth and positive image of the community, particularly through the Faji Nite Carnival and sustained media engagement. His Royal Highness also expressed satisfaction with the 2024 edition of the Faji Nite Carnival and pledged his full support for the 2026 edition of the cultural event. The monarch further appreciated Tambari Steve for his consisten...

No fewer than 5,000 women across Rivers State will receive ₦100,000 each under the Rivers Women Support Stimulus (RWSS), a targeted empowerment programme designed to strengthen grassroots economic participation. The initiative guarantees that at least 200 women from each of the 23 local government areas will benefit, creating a broad and structured distribution framework that reaches communities across the state. The programme is being executed by Rivers Women Unite for SIM (RWUS) in partnership with the Governor Siminalayi Fubara-led administration. Beyond LGA-based beneficiaries, the scheme also accommodates market women and non-indigenes residing in Rivers State, reinforcing an inclusion-driven approach aimed at widening access to financial support for vulnerable and hardworking women. Officials say the stimulus is focused on improving household stability, enhancing small-scale productivity, and deepening women’s role in community development. The intervention underscore...

The Abia State Government has denied claims that it allocated N210 million for the purchase of a single photocopier for its Lagos Liaison Office, blaming it on a clerical error in the 2026 Appropriation Law. The Abia State Ministry of Budget and Planning, said the controversy arose from a "technical formatting error" during the final compilation of the budget, which led to the misalignment of project descriptions and their corresponding figures in one section of the document. It said the"N210,831,142" was appropriated for the "rehabilitation and repair of residential buildings and staff quarters" at the Lagos Liaison Office, while "N12 million" was budgeted for the "procurement of one Sharp photocopier and other sundry office equipment".

The Movement for the Survival of the Gokana People (MOSOGP) has strongly rejected recent statements credited to the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC), declaring that the group has no authority or affiliation with Ogoni affairs or the ongoing environmental remediation in Ogoniland. In a statement signed by its President, Deenor Lucky, MOSOGP described as misleading and provocative calls allegedly made by a faction of the IYC, led by Dr. Alaye Tari Theophilus, for the removal of the Honourable Minister of Environment, Mallam Balarabe Abbas Lawal, and the Project Coordinator of the Hydrocarbon Pollution Remediation Project (HYPREP), Professor Nenibarini Zabbey. MOSOGP stated unequivocally that Ogoni is not part of the Ijaw nation, stressing that the Ijaw Youth Council has no mandate, authority, or recognized role in Ogoni matters, particularly the implementation of the UNEP Report on Ogoniland. According to the group, HYPREP remains a Federal Government intervention agency with a clear...