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President Bola Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Policy Communication, Daniel Bwala, has declared that the Nigerian government will end Kîllîngs in the country. Bwala made the remark while maintaining that Nigerians reserve the right to defend themselves with lethal weapons against aggressors in their houses. He spoke on Arise Television on Wednesday in reaction to the Kîllîngs in Esiele community in Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State. On Friday, gunmen had invaded the LA Primary school where teachers and pupils were abducted. Reacting, Bwala said: “Solution is what we all look to, evil men operate anywhere in the world, no matter how tight you are as a government. “You do your best and expect that with the help of God and collective participation of the people through collective intelligence we will be able to put an end to it. “I know the Nigerian people will continue to complain. So because if for example, no matter how we say that we are sorry and the incident happened ...

Tonye P. Cole has announced his withdrawal from the Rivers State All Progressives Congress (APC) gubernatorial primaries scheduled for tomorrow. In a statement released on Wednesday evening, Cole said the decision was taken in the overriding interest of peace, reconciliation, and the supremacy of the party following extensive consultations. “I have taken the decision, in the overriding interest of party unity, peace, and collective progress, to respect the supremacy of the party and withdraw from the forthcoming primaries,” Cole stated. Cole, who described himself as a committed democrat and advocate for strong institutions, pledged his full support and cooperation to whoever emerges as the party’s candidate at the end of the primaries. “This decision was not made lightly. It is the product of deep reflection, patriotism, and an unwavering commitment to the stability, growth, and success of our great party and our beloved state,” he added. The aspirant expressed profound gr...

Former Minister of Transportation and presidential aspirant of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Rotimi Amaechi, has called for a shift away from ethnic and regional identity in Nigeria, insisting that citizenship should take precedence over indigeneity and zoning. Speaking on national unity and governance structure, Amaechi said Nigerians should be assessed based on their contributions rather than their origin. He stated: “Access us by what we have done, and reach a conclusion. I don’t want to be hearing I’m from north, I’m from South and from East. I’m not from South or East or West. I’m a Nigerian.” He further argued that if he becomes president, the current system of indigene-based classification would be abolished. “If I become president, there will not be indigineship. There will be citizenship. We are first and foremost citizens of Nigeria all this I’m West, I’m North, I’m East and you’re calling people to vote for you based on religion and ethnicity” On the iss...

Thousands of residents of Aleto community, including youths and other stakeholders, on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, staged a massive protest over the alleged mismanagement of N2.6 billion reportedly paid to the community by Indorama Eleme Petrochemicals Limited. The protesters blocked the major entrance into the community, demanding transparency and accountability from community leaders and other alleged beneficiaries handling the funds. According to the demonstrators, the money was part of equity share payments made to the community following the surrender of over 159 hectares of land to the company for industrial operations. The protesters alleged that out of the N2.6 billion reportedly paid to the community, only N1 billion was distributed to beneficiaries, while the remaining N1.6 billion remains unaccounted for. Community members further claimed that another alleged N100 billion linked to land compensation and benefits over the years could not be properly accounted for by ...

Socialite and businessman Cubana Chief Priest has stirred conversations online after making bold statements during a livestream with streamer Peller. According to Cubana Chiefpriest, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu still does not completely trust him because he is an Igbo man and once worked for Peter Obi. “Tinubu still doesn’t fully trust me because I’m an Igbo man and I once worked for Peter Obi, so they feel I could betray him too. I left Peter Obi because I didn’t want to keep losing.  Peter Obi is not ready and I don’t see him winning the next election,” he said during the livestream. His comments are coming shortly after reports emerged that he lost the APC House of Representatives primary election in Imo State.

Desmond Elliot, lawmaker representing Surulere 1 at the Lagos house of assembly, says he believed the plot to impeach Mudashiru Obasa as speaker of the house in 2025 had the backing of President Bola Tinubu. He said the entire episode left members of the Lagos assembly thoroughly confused. In January 2025, Obasa was impeached as speaker of the Lagos state house of assembly after majority of legislators accused him of gross misconduct and abuse of office.

Governor Soludo Bans Cows, Goats as Condolence Gifts, Dancing With Caskets, Weekday Wake-Keeps and Burials in Anambra State  The government said the move is to restore order, reduce wasteful spending and stop long funeral activities from affecting work and businesses in the state.  Anyone who violates the law risks a ₦100,000 fine, six months imprisonment, or both. The New Law include:  • No dancing with caskets • No spraying or sharing souvenirs at funerals • No posters or billboards of deceased persons around the state • Funeral activities must end in one day • Vigil masses and service of songs must end by 9pm • No blocking of roads during burials • Corpses must not stay in mortuary for more than two months 

Former governor of Anambra State, Peter Obi, has emerged as the sole presidential aspirant of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC). The NDC has closed the sale of Expression of Interest and Nomination Forms for its 2027 presidential ticket, and sources who spoke to Vanguard disclosed that only Obi bought the forms.

APC Senatorial Primary Election: Ex-Delta Governor, Ifeanyi Okowa, narrowly wins Sen. Ned Nwoko With 4,462 Votes, Leaving Him With a whole 3 Votes Former Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa has reportedly secured a landslide victory over serving Senator Ned Nwoko in the APC senatorial primary held in Ward 9, Okpanam, Delta North. According to the ward results shared by Ossai Ovie Success, Okowa polled 4,462 votes while Ned Nwoko received just 3 votes. The outcome was described as a strong show of support for Okowa within the party. APC is currently conducting its senatorial primaries across the country, with indications that some sitting senators may struggle to secure re-election tickets.

The Senator representing Rivers West senatorial district at the Senate, Dr Ipablibo Banigo-Harry, has broken the silence on her disqualification for the Rivers West senatorial primaries.  Speaking to newsmen in her ward in Obuama, Harry's Town, Degema Local Government Area, Banigo Harry said she's a serving senator and deserves to be cleared. She said the APC cannot afford to disqualify experienced women, especially at a time when lawmakers are seeking women's inclusion.  Senator Banigo-Harry also told her supporters to be calm and called on the APC at the national level to intervene in the matter.

Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has approved the promotion of civil servants across all levels in the State Civil Service. The approval is conveyed in a circular issued by the Rivers State Civil Service Commission and signed by the Permanent Secretary, James Enebeli.  According to the circular titled “Call for Recommendation for Promotion”, Ministries, Departments, and Agencies are directed to forward names of officers due for promotion between January and July 2026 to the commission for consideration.  The commission said the promotion exercise will cover officers on Grade Levels 07 to 15 who qualified within the period under review. The latest promotion exercise is coming after Governor Fubara recently approved and effected the payment of promotion arrears owed to civil servants.  In the education sector, the administration recently employed 1,000 teachers for public schools across the state. The government has also embarked on the recruitment of hea...

Former Bayelsa Senator, Ben Murray-Bruce, has dismissed reports alleging that he was disqualified from the All Progressives Congress (APC) primaries. Reacting to a report published by Punch Newspaper, the former lawmaker described the claim as false and misleading, expressing shock over the publication. According to Ben Bruce, he immediately contacted the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, to verify the situation after seeing the report online. “I have neither withdrawn nor been disqualified,” he stated. He further urged media organisations to prioritise accuracy and proper verification in their reportage, especially during sensitive political periods. “These are very fluid times, and it would be in the best interest of journalistic excellence to exercise caution and verification rather than utilise speed in reportage,” he added.

A lady has reacted to the ongoing drama between media personality Frank Edoho and singer Chike. According to the lady, if she has issues with her man and he decides to keep malice with her for several days, she will ch34t on him with another man.  She argued that men should always find ways to resolve c○nflicts with their partners instead of resorting to silent treatment or malice, which she believes only pushes women away. Throwing her full support behind Frank’s wife and Chike, she boldly stated that she completely supports what the wife did. She added that she would do the same if placed in such a situation.  The lady further revealed that she can only give her man a maximum of three days to apologise and settle the issue, warning that if he fails to do so, she will go outside and ch34t on him without hesitation. The lady advised men to communicate openly with their partners and address problems immediately rather than withdrawing, noting that many women will no...

Yusuf Muhammadu Buhari, son of Nigeria’s late former President Muhammadu Buhari, has reportedly secured a landslide victory in the APC House of Representatives primary election for the Sandamu/Daura/Mai’adua Federal Constituency in Katsina State. According to results gathered by Nigeria Trending Desk, Yusuf Buhari polled an overwhelming 5,849 votes to defeat his rival, Hon. Auwal Lawal Daura, who secured just 21 votes. The outcome has since sparked widespread reactions across political circles in Katsina and beyond, with many describing the result as a dominant show of influence within the ruling APC ahead of the general elections.

A man identified as Ifeanyi Chukwu has been arrested for allegedly stealing iron materials in Onne, Eleme Local Government Area of Rivers State. Reports say the suspect was apprehended by a security team led by the Local Government Chief Security Officer, Greg Ogosu. During interrogation, the suspect reportedly confessed to the crime and admitted to previous involvement in the theft of other properties before his arrest. The suspect remains in custody while investigations continue.

President Bola Tinubu has urged Nigerians to consistently pay taxes, saying it is the foundation for achieving national development and funding public services.  Speaking on Friday at the Africa CEO Forum in Kigali, Rwanda, he said citizens often demand better infrastructure such as hospitals and roads but are unwilling to provide the tax contributions needed to deliver them.  “Nobody wants to pay taxes. Taxation is not friendly to the wealthy, middle class, and to the poor,” he said, noting that people expect development without considering how it will be financed. He questioned how government can provide healthcare, support vulnerable citizens, or invest in research and development without adequate tax revenue.  He added, “Tax is a priority. A citizen who pays tax is a citizen, whether corporate or individual. If you are not a taxpayer and not exempted, then you are not a citizen,” stressing that tax payment is a civic responsibility.  Tinubu also defen...

Chief of Staff to President Bola Tinubu, Femi Gbajabiamila, has revealed that he was personally summoned by the President and almost lost his position over allegations linking Surulere lawmaker Desmond Elliot to the crisis that rocked the Lagos State House of Assembly. Gbajabiamila made the disclosure while reacting to reports that Elliot is insisting on returning to the Lagos Assembly for a fourth term, with APC primaries now seven days away. According to the former Speaker of the House of Representatives, President Tinubu called him to his Abuja residence to discuss the Assembly crisis, the education department, and related political matters. “He said, ‘I hear that Desmond is your boy — the one we gave to you,’” Gbajabiamila recalled. He said he defended Elliot, insisting the lawmaker had no role in the alleged plot destabilising the Assembly. However, Gbajabiamila said the President maintained that intelligence reports implicated Elliot and directed him to warn the lawma...

Billionaire businessman Aliko Dangote has explained why he prefers staying in hotels rather than owning luxury homes abroad, saying he sold his properties in the United States and the United Kingdom to focus fully on building businesses in Nigeria. According to him, maintaining expensive foreign properties creates distractions and extra responsibilities that can take attention away from long-term business goals. He said the decision helped him simplify his lifestyle and remain more focused on his industrial investments. “When I decided to go into the industry, you know what I did? I sold all my properties in the US. I had two houses in the US, big mansions, and I had a house in the UK. I wanted to really sit in Nigeria and concentrate,” Dangote said. He explained that owning holiday homes often comes with obligations that interfere with productivity and personal focus. “Sometimes when you own a holiday home anywhere, you have to create that time to go and use that property....

During a recent appearance on the Tea With Tay podcast, Deyemi Okanlawon opened up about gender roles, marriage dynamics, and the idea of women becoming the primary providers in relationships. Speaking during the conversation, the actor said he would have no issue becoming a househusband if his wife earned significantly more money than him. “I pray, God, please let my wife just hit one million, $10 million per annum . If you see me act… I’ll be a househusband.” When asked if he would truly be comfortable taking on that role, Deyemi replied: “There’s money. What are you doing again?” He went on to explain that many men struggle with relationships where women are the breadwinners, adding that insecurity often creates tension in such homes. “I find that a lot of men are not comfortable with that dynamic. And so, they’re already hypersensitive. Any small thing Is it because you did this? Is it because of that?’” The actor stressed that his biggest concern is being valuable to h...

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has cleared Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State and 29 other sitting governors of the party as aspirants eligible to contest the party’s governorship primaries ahead of the 2027 general elections. Party sources confirmed to Vanguard that Governor Fubara, alongside other APC governors including Hope Uzodimma of Imo State, and notable figures such as former Secretary to the Oyo State Government, Sarafadeen Alli, were among those who scaled through the party’s screening exercise. According to the sources, a total of thirty governors of the APC were cleared for the governorship primaries as the party intensifies preparations for the 2027 polls. The development comes amid reports of a flood of petitions that is currently stalling the final release of the comprehensive screening report. Despite this, the APC had earlier announced plans to publish the list of cleared aspirants on Tuesday, May 13, in line with the Independent National Elec...

A Message from The Ogoni Youth Consensus for Good Governance to the Leaders and Stakeholders of the African Democratic Congress [ADC]. Subject: Endorsement of Dr. Leloonu Nwibubasa for Governor – A Choice for Credibility, Capacity, and the Future of Rivers State Distinguished Leaders and Stakeholders of the ADC, We, the Ogoni Youths, speaking on behalf of one of the largest, most organized, and politically conscious youth populations in Rivers State, write to you with clarity and conviction. After wide consultations across Khana, Gokana, Tai, and Eleme, and after measuring every aspirant against what our people truly need, we stand united to endorse Dr. Leloonu Nwibubasa* for Governor of Rivers State on the platform of the ADC. Why Dr. Leloonu Nwibubasa? 1. He has the credibility we can defend.   Dr. Leloonu has walked with the people without breaking trust. No scandal, no betrayal of his community, no record of exploiting public office for private gain. In a time ...

The President of the Ogoni Liberation Initiative, Fabeke Douglas, has criticized the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) over the alleged relocation of a project originally approved for Lueku Community in Khana Local Government Area, Ogoni, to the Obio/Akpor axis of Rivers State. Dr. Fabeke, who is also an AA Senatorial aspirant, described the development as unfair and unacceptable, calling on the commission to immediately address the matter. He revealed that petitions have already been submitted to the NDDC and relevant security agencies, demanding a thorough investigation into the alleged project diversion. The activist further stated that the Ogoni Liberation Initiative is prepared to stage a peaceful solidarity protest at the NDDC headquarters if the commission fails to respond or provide clarification on the issue within a reasonable timeframe.

There was widespread jubilation across Rivers State and Ogoniland following the official declaration of Dr. Leloonu Nwibubasa’s governorship ambition under the African Democratic Congress ahead of the 2027 elections. Dr. Leloonu Nwibubasa, a former commissioner under the administration of Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, has officially obtained the Expression of Interest and Nomination forms of the ADC, signaling his readiness to contest for the governorship seat. The development has sparked excitement in many parts of the state, especially among the Ogoni people, who have for years expressed the desire to produce a governor of Rivers State. Many residents believe the move represents a major step toward inclusion and political representation for the Ogoni ethnic nationality. Over the years, several groups within Ogoniland have raised concerns about marginalization and limited representation in key political positions within the state. Dr. Leloonu Nwibubasa’s entrance into the race ...

The Federal High Court in Abuja has sentenced former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, to 75 years imprisonment after finding him guilty of fra¥d and money la¥ndering involving about ₦33.8 billion. Justice James Omotosho convicted Mamman on all 12 charges filed against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission. The court handed him seven years imprisonment on 10 counts, while he received three years and two years respectively on counts four and five. The sentences are to run consecutively, with no option of fine except on count four where he can pay ₦10 million. The court also ordered the forfeiture of foreign currencies and four Abuja properties linked to the fraud. Justice Omotosho said the prosecution proved its case beyond reasonable doubt, stating, “The evidence of the prosecution is overwhelming as against the scanty and almost absent defence of the defendant.” He added, “The defendant did not offer any credible evidence to rebut the prosecution’s case.” The ...

Nigeria’s Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, has said there has been a significant decline in the number of Nigerian students travelling abroad for studies, attributing it to improvements in the country’s tertiary education system.  Speaking during an interview on Channels Television, the minister stated that academic stability and increased investment in education have boosted confidence in Nigerian universities.  “There’s a precipitous drop in the number of students going to study outside Nigeria. Our tertiary education is better now; we have academic session continuity, and we are investing so much,” he said.  According to him, more Nigerian students are choosing to remain in the country because the quality of education has improved.  “Kids are staying here, the quality of education is now better. Within 2024/2025, the number of Nigerians going out has significantly dropped,” he added.  Reacting to concerns that some Nigerian students sent abroa...

The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Taiwo Oyedele, has warned that Nigeria cannot continue to rely on borrowing to fund development, stressing the need for a sustainable fiscal system.  He spoke at the 28th Annual Tax Conference of the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria in Abuja.  “Nigeria cannot continue to finance development primarily through borrowing. We must build a fiscal system capable of sustainably supporting critical infrastructure, quality education, affordable healthcare, security, and social protection,” he said.  His remarks follow reports of ongoing Federal Government discussions with the World Bank over a proposed $1.25bn loan for reforms, job creation, and competitiveness.  Oyedele said sustainability goes beyond revenue, adding that it must also promote growth, reduce inequality, and protect vulnerable groups.  He explained that tax reforms are aimed at fixing structural issues like multiple ta...

Nollywood actor Alex Ekubo has passed away at the age of 40.  The actor reportedly battled with stage 4 liver cancer until he passed away in the hospital.  The actor, known for his roles in romantic comedies and drama films, remains one of the prominent faces in the Nigerian film industry.

You’re Not a Goat, Stop Chewing Gum in Church— Pastor David Ibiyeomie Warns Members  Founder of Salvation Ministries, David Ibiyeomie, has cautioned members against chewing gum, drinking water, and using phones during church services, describing the acts as improper and disrespectful. Speaking during a church service, the cleric told members of Salvation Ministries that chewing gum in church is untidy and indecent, especially when worshippers dispose of the gum carelessly. He said, “Members of Salvation Message, nobody comes to Salvation Messages during service and chewing gum. People chew gum and drop on the floor, and most of the people make mistakes to match it. It’s not neat, it’s not ethical, it’s not decent.” The pastor added, “Stop chewing gum in church. You are not a goat. If you want to chew gum, chew at home. Or when you leave the church, chew.” Addressing those who claim chewing gum helps keep their breath fresh, Ibiyeomie advised them to use mouthwash instea...

The Federal Government is seeking a fresh $1.25bn loan from the World Bank to support economic reforms, job creation, and investment growth. The proposed facility, titled Nigeria Actions for Investment and Jobs Acceleration, is expected to be presented for approval on June 26, 2026, months before the 2027 presidential election. If approved, the loan, estimated at about ₦1.7tn, would become one of the largest World Bank facilities secured under President Bola Tinubu’s administration and could push Nigeria’s total public debt above ₦160tn. According to the World Bank document, the facility is designed “to support the government’s efforts to expand access to finance, digital, and electricity services, and strengthen competitiveness through tax, trade, and agriculture reforms.” The report stated that the loan has reached the “decision meeting stage” of the World Bank approval process, indicating that negotiations and major conditions have largely been concluded ahead of final b...

The All Progressives Congress (APC) Screening Committee for the Rivers State House of Assembly has officially released its results , clearing 33 aspirants and disqualifying 65 others following a two-day exercise on May 9 and 10, 2026. The committee, chaired by Rt. Hon. Muraina Ajibola, evaluated a total of 98 aspirants at the State Secretariat in Port Harcourt. While the exercise was generally orderly, it was marked by a reported bribery attempt and security friction. THE CLEARED ASPIRANTS:  The following 33 individuals successfully verified their credentials and met the party's eligibility criteria to participate in the upcoming primaries: Maol Dumle Major M. Jack Nwabochi Frankline Ofiks K. Christopher Enemi Alabo George Tonye Smart Adoki Tekenari W. Granville Azeru Opara Igwe Obey Aforji Opuende Lolo Isaiah Ukalikpe Napoleon Hope Ugwumadu Kenneth Minimah Justina Aniton Okorji Onyema Rex Nwankwo Jumbo Soparagha Wami Solomon Gift Esede Ali Ejekwu Chisa Nathan Peter E. ...

Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Soludo, has declared that anyone claiming to perform miracles should prove it at Amaku General Hospital.  Speaking during a church event, the governor said his administration had arrested several “f@kepastors and bishops” in the state as part of efforts to sanitize religious practices. “We’ve arrested f@ke pastors and bishops. Whoever wants to perform a miracle should come to Amaku Hospital,” Soludo stated.

Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Wisdom, has urged Nigerian youths to stop depending on politicians for money and instead focus on offering value, ideas, and skills that can help develop the country.  Speaking on Saturday in Abuja during the Forum of National Youth Leaders of All Political Parties in Nigeria themed, “The Place of Nigerian Youths in the Political Discussions of 2027 and Beyond,” the minister said many young people only engage in politics for financial gains instead of contributing meaningful ideas.  “A lot of people don’t look at the vision; they look at immediate gratification. That’s why people come to campaigns just for money. After the campaign, that’s the end. They don’t contribute ideas,” he said.  Wisdom stressed that youths should learn to approach politicians with ideas and solutions rather than demands for money.  “So, let’s have something we want to discuss. If you go to a politician and don’t discuss ideas, if you put mon...

Beneficiaries of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) in Anambra State have endorsed President Bola Tinubu for a second term and donated ₦10.7 million towards his 2027 expression of interest form.  The students made the presentation on Friday at Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Igbariam campus, saying the gesture was in appreciation of the loan scheme’s impact on access to higher education and the easing of financial burdens on students.  Chairman of the National Association of Nigerian Students Joint Campus Council in Anambra, Ifeanyichukwu Chukwuemeka, said, “We, the beneficiaries of NELFUND scheme, are collectively endorsing President Bola Tinubu for a second term in office.”  He added that the ₦10,735,500 donation was a “symbolic expression of gratitude” for Tinubu’s educational reforms and youth-focused policies.

Nigeria’s Accountant-General of the Federation, Dr Shamseldeen Ogunjimi, has warned that the federal government may reconsider its loan arrangements with the World Bank if delays in approvals and disbursements continue to hinder project implementation.  The warning followed concerns over the slow pace at which loan facilities are being processed, despite their importance to national development projects. Ogunjimi stressed that the funds involved are repayable loans, not grants, and therefore should not be subjected to prolonged delays that could disrupt government planning and execution.  He noted that in some cases, approvals take more than six months, a situation he said could force Nigeria to reassess its participation in such financial agreements. According to him, timely access to funding is essential to ensure projects are delivered within schedule and development objectives are not compromised.  The Accountant-General also urged the World Bank to stream...

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has constituted a Screening Committee for incumbent governors seeking re-election and those aspiring to contest Senate seats ahead of the 2027 general elections. The committee is chaired by the APC National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, while the APC National Secretary, Sen. Surajudeen Ajibola Basiru, Ph.D, serves as Secretary. Other members of the committee are drawn from the National Working Committee (NWC). Screening Schedule For Incumbent Governors (Re-election and Senate Aspirants): The screening exercise will hold from Friday, May 8 to Saturday, May 9, 2026, at the Plateau State Governors Lodge. For Other Governorship Aspirants: Screening for all other governorship aspirants will take place from Saturday, May 9 to Sunday, May 10, 2026, at the NWC Hall, APC National Secretariat, Abuja.

Vice President Kashim Shettima made the statement as he submitted President Bola Tinubu’s nomination and expression of interest forms for the APC 2027 presidential primary  At the event, Shettima said the Tinubu administration has stabilised Nigeria and restored confidence in governance, insisting the country is now on a path of recovery.  “The President has delivered on the mandate of stability and national revival. The storms of the past years have not diminished him. They have made a party hero out of him,” he said.  He added that Tinubu made difficult but necessary economic decisions at the start of his administration, which he said helped restore investor confidence and reposition the economy.  “We have crossed the river. We are out of the dark tunnel. Nigeria is on a path to recovery and growth,” Shettima said, calling on Nigerians across political, religious and ethnic lines to support Tinubu’s 2027 ambition.