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NUC, World Bank Sign $65m Deal to Strengthen University Governance Standards

2026-05-13T14:40:39.831+01:00

The National Universities Commission (NUC) has signed a $65 million agreement with the World Bank aimed at improving governance standards across Nigerian universities.

The deal focuses on enhancing institutional management, transparency, accountability, and overall operational efficiency in the nation’s higher education system.

According to details of the partnership, the funding will support key reforms including the development and implementation of modern governance frameworks, capacity building for university administrators and governing councils, and the adoption of digital tools for better institutional oversight.

The initiative is expected to address long-standing challenges such as weak internal controls, financial management issues, and limited autonomy in some institutions, while aligning Nigerian universities with global best practices.

NUC officials described the agreement as a major step towards repositioning Nigerian tertiary institutions for improved performance, competitiveness, and sustainable development.

The project will likely include technical assistance, training programmes, and monitoring mechanisms to ensure effective utilisation of the funds and measurable improvements in university governance.

This collaboration comes as part of broader efforts to strengthen the quality and relevance of higher education in Nigeria amid growing demands for better accountability in public institutions.

How to Apply for Education, Africa Courses Exempted from UTME

2026-05-13T14:28:03.876+01:00

The Federal Government has issued detailed guidelines for candidates seeking admission into Colleges of Education and non-technology agriculture programmes in polytechnics and colleges of agriculture, following the recent exemption of these courses from the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).

The exemption, announced on Monday, aims to boost enrolment in teacher education and agricultural programmes while addressing the rising number of out-of-school adolescents and limited access to tertiary education.

In a statement issued on Tuesday by the Director of Press and Public Relations in the Ministry of Education, Boriowo Folasade, the government explained that the policy was approved after a stakeholders’ meeting convened by the Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, on April 30, 2026.

Key Guidelines for RegistrationProspective candidates for the Nigerian Certificate in Education (NCE) programmes and National Diploma (ND) non-technology agriculture and agriculture-related courses will no longer sit for UTME.

However, they must still:

Obtain the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) application form.

Process their admissions strictly through the JAMB Central Admission Processing System (CAPS).

Upload their O’Level results on the JAMB portal.

All admission letters will continue to be issued exclusively by JAMB after verification of credentials and compliance with minimum entry requirements, which remain unchanged.

Registration ProcessCandidates for NCE programmes will apply through JAMB without writing UTME. Registration will be coordinated by JAMB and Colleges of Education starting from the 2026/2027 academic session.

Candidates seeking ND non-technology agriculture programmes in polytechnics and colleges of agriculture will also apply through JAMB without sitting for UTME.

Additional Measures

The government has approved a one-time retroactive condonement exercise for NCE students previously admitted outside CAPS.

The exercise, covering students in Years I and II for the 2025/2026 session, will run from June 1 to August 30, 2026.Colleges of Education are required to upload details of eligible students within this period for proper documentation on the JAMB platform.

The Federal Government warned that future admissions conducted outside CAPS will be regarded as illegal and void.

It also directed all institutions to stop issuing independent admission letters.Periodic monitoring will be carried out by JAMB, the National Commission for Colleges of Education, the National Board for Technical Education, and other agencies to ensure compliance.

Obasa declares House of reps bid ahead of 2027 poll

2026-05-13T14:14:44.898+01:00

Mudashiru Obasa, speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, has declared his intention to contest the Agege Federal Constituency seat in the 2027 elections.

Obasa, a sixth-term lawmaker representing Agege Constituency I, has been a member of the state legislature since 2003.

Speaking during a stakeholders’ meeting on Tuesday in Agege, ahead of the All Progressives Congress (APC) primaries, Obasa said consultations influenced his decision to formally join the race.

He shared that party leaders in his constituency encouraged him to hurl his hat into the federal legislative ring.

He called on APC members to embrace unity and remain committed as the party prepares for its primary elections.

“I answered the call of our leaders and stakeholders who believe I can serve Agege better,” he said.

He also appealed for support for Ganiyu Egunjobi, former chairman of Agege LGA, who intends to represent Agege Constituency I in the Lagos assembly.

“Egunjobi has served our people diligently and deserves the support of all loyal party members,” the speaker said.

Obasa further canvassed support for Azeez Ninolowo, an aspirant for Agege constituency II.

He noted that the constituency needs experienced and dedicated representatives who understand the challenges confronting residents.

“We must present candidates with capacity, loyalty, and commitment to the progress of Agege,” he added.

‘I saw you smiling even in death’ — AY pays emotional tribute to Alex Ekubo

2026-05-13T14:14:42.789+01:00

Popular Nigerian comedian, AYo Makun, professionally known as AY, has spoken about the late Nollywood actor, Alex Ekubo’s final moments.

Alex Ekubo died in Lagos hospital on Monday, May 11 2026, after a long battle with cancer.

Alex, who was diagnosed with stage four liver cancer in 2024, underwent a transplant.

In 2026, the liver failed again, and he died from complications hours after being placed on life support.

Speaking about Alex’s final moments in an Instagram post, Comedian AY, who was present at the hospital, revealed that Alex was smiling when he breathed his last breath.

“Some losses do not feel real no matter how many times you try to process them. Still struggling with the reality that you are gone, Alex.

From the laughter to the conversations, the random moments, the brotherhood, and all the memories we shared in this industry. This one hurts deeply.

“I was there. I saw you still smiling even in death. I saw the tears from friends and family. And honestly, a part of me is still in shock. Rest well my brother. You will be remembered beyond the lights, the cameras, and the fame”, AY wrote.

Also, Alex Ekubo’s friend, Godwin Nnadiekwe, revealed that Alex prepared his will before his death.

Godwin wrote on his Instagram story “Alex Ekubo. To think you already prepared your will, It’s a heartbreak I can’t quite describe. Rest well, my friend.”

Why Obi, Kwankwaso shunned PRP — Baba-Ahmed

2026-05-13T14:14:40.410+01:00

Former spokesperson of the Labour Party presidential campaign, Datti Baba Ahmed, has explained why prominent politicians such as Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso did not join the Peoples Redemption Party.

Speaking on the development, Baba Ahmed said the PRP, despite its historical ideology and structure, was not the political platform that aligned with the current ambitions and political strategies of the two leading figures.

According to him, “both Obi and Kwankwaso already had established political movements and strong support bases under their respective platforms, making a switch to PRP unnecessary and politically unrealistic at the time”.

He noted that Nigerian politics is now driven more by coalition strength and existing party structures than ideological sentiment alone, adding that major actors often prefer to consolidate influence within already functional platforms rather than migrate to smaller parties.

NABTEB fixes Deadline for Registration of 2026 Entrance, Certificate Exams

2026-05-13T13:58:15.782+01:00

The National Business and Technical Examinations Board (NABTEB) has announced May 31 and May 24, 2026, as the deadline for registration for the 2026 May/June In-School Certificate Examinations and the National Common Entrance Examination (NCEE).

The Registrar/Chief Executive Officer, NABTEB, Dr Mohammed Aminu Mohammed disclosed this in a statement made available to newsmen on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, through Mr Uchechukwu Olisah, Assistant Director (Media/Protocol) of the board.

Mohammed, who said the registration for the examinations is still ongoing across the country, added that the process has been simplified through designated online portals.

He said the simplification is to ensure a seamless and stress-free experience for candidates and schools.

According to him, for the May/June (In-school) registration, schools are required to request slots through their respective State Offices, capture candidates using the NABTEB Biometric Software, and complete registration via the official portal at mayjune.nabteb.gov.ng.

“Also, for the May/June (In-school) registration, schools are expected to obtain login details through the State Office, log into the School Portal, make payment, and complete registration through school.nabteb.gov.ng.

“Similarly, candidates seeking registration for the National Common Entrance Examination (NCEE) are to request Personal Identification Numbers (PINs) through the State Offices, complete registration on the Common Entrance Portal, and finalise the process through commonentrance.nabteb.gov.ng.

“Also, for the online NCEE registration, candidates may create accounts independently, log in, and complete registration online.

“Schools may also obtain login details through the State Office to facilitate bulk registration.

“Payments and registration completion are to be carried out through student.nabteb.gov.ng”, he said.

The NABTEB Chief Executive Officer, however, advised schools, parents, guardians, and prospective candidates to take advantage of the registration window and complete all necessary procedures before the stipulated deadlines to avoid last-minute challenges

He also urged candidates and school authorities to strictly comply with all registration guidelines and ensure accurate submission of candidates’ data.

Mohammed further advised members of the public to contact the nearest State Office or visit the Board’s official registration portals for further clarification and support.

He reiterated the Board’s commitment to leveraging technology to improve service delivery and examination administration nationwide.

Driver Connives With Kidnappers to Kill, Rob Archbishop

2026-05-13T13:57:32.879+01:00

A man identified as the personal driver of an Anglican Bishop in Delta State, whose name was simply given as Bishop Chinedu has been apprehended for conniving with kidnappers to kill his master.

Though the details of the incident are still sketchy, the state Police Commissioner, CP Ikioye Orutugu said the suspects had just been arrested, and that further investigation would reveal the details of their operations.

Orutugu said to journalists, “Don’t mind, details will be revealed to you soon after we conclude our investigations, as they have just been arrested.

But DAILY POST learnt that the principal suspect, a private driver of the Bishop, whose name was not revealed, connived with some kidnappers to dispossess the clergyman of his Toyota Landcruiser SUV, but things went awry and the clergyman was killed in the process, while his vehicle was stolen.

Orutugu said: “They brought the vehicle into Anambra to sell it, and the man you see with him was the one who wanted to buy the vehicle, but in the process, they were arrested.”

Journalists were shielded from speaking with the suspects by police operatives who insisted that investigation was still ongoing.

Court Dismisses ADA Suit Against INEC for Lacking in Merit

2026-05-13T13:53:14.739+01:00

The Federal High Court in Abuja on Wednesday dismissed a suit filed by the All Democratic Alliance (ADA) against the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for lacking in merit.

Justice Emeka Nwite, in a judgment, held that the suit was incompetent because it was initiated by originating summons in spite of containing allegations of fraud.

“Adopting this mode of suit is in itself hostile,” Justice Nwite said.

The judge held that allegations of crime or fraud cannot be proved by an originating summons and require a writ of summons, which allows for a full trial, including oral testimony and cross-examination of witnesses, unlike an originating summons, which is restricted to affidavit evidence.

“It is a well-established issue of law that the appropriate mode of commencement of a suit where there is an allegation of fraud is a writ of summons,” he said.

He stated that the mode of commencement of a suit is fundamental, as it determines jurisdiction, and where it is improperly filed, it would rob the court of jurisdiction to hear the matter.

The judge further held that the procedure adopted deprived the 2nd and 3rd defendants in the case of the opportunity to cross-examine witnesses on depositions contained in the affidavit evidence and thus “will affect their right to fair hearing”.

The judge held that the case was instituted by improper procedure and could not be sustained.

“The preliminary objection of the defendants stands.

“I am of the view and I so hold that the appropriate order is to set aside the entire proceedings,” Justice Nwite said.

The judge consequently described the suit as unmeritorious and accordingly dismissed it.

(NAN)

Barau Scales Hurdles as Gwarzo Withdraws from Kano North Senatorial Race

2026-05-13T13:24:35.337+01:00

Political tension in the Kano North Senatorial District has eased after former Minister of State for Housing, Abdullahi Tijjani Gwarzo, withdrew from the 2027 senatorial race to allow Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau I. Jibrin, to return to the National Assembly.

The consensus arrangement was brokered by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and top All Progressives Congress (APC) leaders, including former National Chairman Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje.

In a video statement released on Tuesday, May 13, 2026, Gwarzo announced his withdrawal, describing the decision as being in the interest of peace and unity within the party.

He praised Governor Yusuf’s leadership and pledged to support Senator Barau’s candidacy as well as President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid in Kano.

Senator Barau, in response, commended Gwarzo for his sacrifice and thanked Governor Yusuf for restoring harmony in the APC in the senatorial district.

The development ends weeks of internal wrangling within the Kano APC, where Gwarzo had strong backing from party chieftains in Kano North, including members of the House of Representatives and State Assembly.

He had earlier obtained the nomination form and vowed to challenge Barau at the primaries.

No evidence of civilian casualties in Zamfara market air strike - DHQ

2026-05-13T13:15:53.065+01:00

The Nigerian military says there is no “credible” or “substantiated” evidence of civilian casualties following an air strike on Tumfa market in Zurmi LGA of Zamfara state.

According to AFP, at least 72 people were killed in the wake of Sunday’s missile launch.

The newswire, citing a community leader, said some victims’ bodies were “blown beyond recognition”.

“The actual death toll is hard to establish at the moment. Everybody, residents and bandits, goes to the market. People are at the mercy of the bandits. There is nothing they can do,” Garba Ibrahim Mashema told AFP.

Amnesty International had said the death toll had risen to more than 100, adding that dozens of injured victims were receiving treatment after the strike.

The organisation also claimed that one of the affected villages buried 80 people at once.

However, Michael Onoja, spokesperson for the Defence Headquarters, dismissed claims that civilians were affected by the operation.

He said the strike was carried out in line with international humanitarian law and targeted a “confirmed high-level gathering” of militant leaders in the village, based on multi-sourced intelligence.

“No credible, substantiated evidence of civilian casualties has been established through any official assessment or independent verification,” Onoja said.

He added that the nature of the operation made immediate casualty verification difficult, but noted that a post-strike assessment indicated that “several terrorists were neutralised”.

Court to Decide Ex-Skye Chair, Ayeni Bail Request May 25

2026-05-13T12:52:13.751+01:00

The High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), sitting at Apo, on Wednesday, slated May 25 for ruling on an application filed by the detained former Chairman of the Board of Directors of the defunct Skye Bank Plc, Tunde Ayeni, seeking release on bail pending determination of the case against him.

Ayeni was remanded in prison custody on May 4 after he pleaded not guilty to a 17-count charge bordering on his alleged involvement in a N15.665 billion fraud.

Justice Jude Onwuzuruike had declined the defendant’s plea to be kept in the custody of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) until his bail application was determined.

At the resumed proceedings on Wednesday, counsel to the defendant, Dele Adesina, SAN, who led four other senior advocates, moved the bail application.

Adesina drew the court’s attention to the fact that his client had previously been admitted to administrative bail by the anti-graft agency prosecuting the matter.

He stressed that the administrative bail was about to be perfected when the court, at the last sitting, gave the remand order.

Besides, the defence lawyer argued that his client enjoyed the constitutional presumption of innocence and that the offences in the charge were bailable.

On his part, EFCC lawyer G. I. Inde urged the court to deny the defendant bail.

The prosecution stated that it had also filed a 23-paragraph counter-affidavit with an annexed exhibit to show why the defendant should remain in detention.

After listening to both parties, Justice Onwuzuruike adjourned for ruling.

The charge against the defendant borders on criminal breach of trust, misappropriation, and conversion of investors’ funds to the tune of N15,665,085,429 (Fifteen Billion, Six Hundred and Sixty-Five Million, Eighty-Five Thousand, Four Hundred and Twenty-Nine Naira).

It will be recalled that the defendant had, in 2019, pleaded not guilty to a similar charge that was instituted against him and one Timothy Oguntayo.

Shortly after the trial commenced before Justice Ijeoma Ojukwu of the Federal High Court in Abuja, the defendant, through his team of lawyers led by Chief Wole Olanipekun, SAN, insisted that transactions the EFCC investigated were fundamentally commercial.

He told the court that there was an understanding between the bank and the defendants for which the approval of the Central Bank of Nigeria was sought and obtained by the management of the defunct Skye Bank.

Olanipekun, SAN, maintained that the dispute “arose out of business transactions that went sour,” and emphasised that the issues were amenable to amicable resolution.

The parties subsequently agreed to settle the matter out of court, a move that was approved by the trial judge.

The settlement terms were eventually adopted by Justice Ojukwu as judgment of the court.

Police Rescue Abducted Toddler, Arrest Suspect in Delta

2026-05-13T12:47:53.529+01:00

Operatives of the Quick Response Squad, QRS, in Warri, Delta State have rescued a 2-year-old child suspected of having been abducted at Igbudu market. The child who was rescued on 10 May 2026, has been reunited with her family.

The operatives also prevented the lynching of a twenty-nine(29) year old suspect identified as Fejiro Obaduemu by an angry mob.

Delta State Police Public Relations Officer, Bright Edafe confirmed the report in a statement, saying, “Operatives of the Quick Response Squad (QRS), Warri, on 10 May 2026 at about 0915hrs, successfully rescued a two-year-old child suspected to have been abducted and prevented the lynching of a suspect at Igbudu Market, Warri.

“The suspect, identified as Fejiro Obaduemu, aged 29, of Idesoh Street, Essi Layout, Warri, was intercepted by vigilant residents while carrying the child concealed inside a sack bag, thereby raising suspicion of child stealing.

“Before the suspect could be mobbed, operatives of the QRS swiftly responded to the scene, rescued both the suspect and the child, and evacuated them to safety.

“The suspect, who sustained injuries from the mob attack, was taken to the Police Clinic, Warri, for medical attention and subsequently taken into custody for investigation.

“Further investigation conducted on 11 May 2026 led to the successful tracing of the child’s parents, and the child was formally reunited with the family in the presence of leaders of the Hausa community in Warri.

“Preliminary investigation revealed that the suspect allegedly confessed to being sent by an unidentified suspect in Warri to steal the child.

“Efforts are ongoing to arrest the said accomplice and unravel the wider network connected to the crime.”

We're Over Kwakwanso, Obi's Exit, says ADC

2026-05-13T12:45:24.596+01:00

The African Democratic Congress, ADC, says it has moved on from the exit of two former presidential candidates, Peter Obi and Rabi’u Kwankwaso, from the party.

Speaking on Wednesday, during an interview on Arise Television’s ‘Morning Show’, the National Publicity Secretary of the party, Bolaji Abdullahi, described the exit of the duo as a glitch.

Recall that Obi and Kwankwaso recently defected from the ADC to the Nigerian Democratic Congress, NDC, citing internal political wranglings and court cases as reasons.

Speaking during the interview, the ADC spokesman said, “Peter Obi and Kwankwaso moving from the ADC was a glitch. We have moved on from it.

“We have stabilised and moved forward because the objective remains the same, stopping the steady deterioration of governance in the country and strengthening multi-party democracy.

“While some have moved to other parties and others remain in ADC, the broader vision of building a strong opposition coalition is still very much alive within the current political dynamics.”

Blord Speaks on VIP Treatment While in Prison

2026-05-13T12:43:17.545+01:00

Nigerian social media personality, Linus Williams, also known as Blord, has shared details of his stay at the Kuje Correctional Centre, describing parts of the facility as comfortable and organised.

Blord made the remarks during a recent interview shared online, where he revealed the VIP treatment he got while in the facility.

The social media personality, who recently had a clash with Martins Vincent Otse, widely called Verydarkman, VDM also compared the environment at the facility to special sections of National Youth Service Corps, NYSC orientation camp.

According to him, there are special sections within the correctional centre reserved for high-profile individuals.

“Kuje looks like NYSC camp. Inside the camp they have VIP sections and that was where I was kept,” he said.

Blord further claimed that the section where he stayed had several home appliances and other facilities.

“It was like a vacation. I sleep, wake up and eat. I even had a chef,” he stated.

Blord also compared his experience with that of VeryDarkMan, alleging that his experience at the facility was different.

According to Blord, inmates at the correctional centre welcomed him warmly during his stay.

“We played football and they organised games for me,” he added.

Xenophobia: Mahama Approves Evacuation of 300 Ghanaians from South Africa

2026-05-13T12:16:38.436+01:00

Ghana’s President John Mahama has granted approval for the immediate evacuation of 300 Ghanaian nationals from South Africa following a fresh wave of xenophobic attacks.

The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, disclosed the development in a statement on Tuesday via his X handle.

He noted that the affected citizens had heeded the Foreign Ministry’s advisory and registered with the Ghana High Commission in Pretoria for evacuation assistance.

“His Excellency John Mahama has granted presidential approval for the immediate evacuation of 300 Ghanaians in South Africa,” Ablakwa stated.

“These distressed Ghanaians had earlier complied with the Foreign Ministry’s advisory and registered with our High Commission in Pretoria to be rescued following the latest wave of xenophobic attacks.”

The minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting its citizens both at home and abroad.

The evacuation follows reports of harassment and attacks on foreign-owned businesses, particularly in areas such as KwaZulu-Natal and Durban.

Other African countries, including Nigeria, have also initiated measures to support their nationals in South Africa amid the rising tensions.

Tinubu Must Account for 2023 Promises — Dan Ulasi

2026-05-13T12:10:49.165+01:00

A prominent PDP chieftain, Dan Ulasi, has challenged President Bola Tinubu to give a national broadcast explaining the status of his 2023 campaign promises.

Speaking on Arise Television’s Morning Show on Wednesday, Ulasi urged the President to clearly state which promises have been fulfilled, which are ongoing, and why others remain unfulfilled.

“Governing may look different from the outside, but citizens have a right to know why certain promises have not been met,” he said.

Ulasi lamented that many Nigerians have now become “genetically used to non-performance” and have adapted to government failure by focusing on personal survival rather than depending on the state.

He added that the government is failing in basic responsibilities such as paying teachers’ salaries, providing water, and ensuring food security, describing Nigeria’s problems as “multifarious.”

The remarks reflect growing opposition criticism of the Tinubu administration more than three years into its tenure.

Trump Boasts Iran Port Blockade Is ‘100 Percent Effective’

2026-05-13T11:49:33.311+01:00

The United States President, Donald Trump, has declared that his country would defeat the Islamic Republic of Iran “peacefully or otherwise.”

Trump disclosed this while responding to reporters at the White House who asked whether he thinks Chinese President Xi Jinping, whom he will meet later this week in China, would be able to help with Iran.

He said: “No, I don’t think we need any help with Iran. We’ll win it one way or the other. We’ll win it peacefully or otherwise.

“Their navy’s gone, their air force is gone, every single element of their war machine is gone.”

The US President also noted that the blockade of Iranian ports is “100 percent effective.”

“Well, we’re going to see, and we’ll be thinking about it on the flight [to China], and we’ll be thinking about it for the next little while,” Trump said.

He reiterated his claim that the US has defeated Iran’s military “very soundly.”

“One way or another, it’s going to work out very well,” he added.

Genevieve Nnaji returns to screen in BBC film ‘Wahala’

2026-05-13T11:39:21.559+01:00

Genevieve Nnaji, the Nollywood veteran, has been named among the cast of the upcoming BBC drama series ‘Wahala,’ an adaptation of Nikki May’s debut novel.

The British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) unveiled the series’ full cast in a recent publication.

‘Wahala,’ which translates to trouble, is a six-part thriller produced by Ado Yoshizaki Cassuto and distributed by Firebird Pictures, an arm of BBC Studios. The series will air on BBC iPlayer and BBC One, with BBC Studios managing global sales.

The drama is written and executive-produced by BAFTA-nominated screenwriter Theresa Ikoko and directed by Leonora Lonsdale, Ikoko, and Remi Weekes.

Nnaji joins a star-studded lineup that includes Adelayo Adedayo, Deborah Ayorinde, Cush Jumbo, and Susan Wokoma.

The story follows four Nigerian-British women in their 30s navigating careers, love, and family in London. As they grapple with mysteries and dangers rooted in their childhood homes, buried secrets and dark pasts threaten to unravel their dreams. The series blends tension, love, family, suspense, tragedy, and loyalty.

Speaking on the project, Ikoko praised the cast and crew.

“I can’t wait to bring Wahala’ to life with this amazing cast, wonderful directors and brilliantly talented crew,” she told BBC.

Nnaji said the series tells an intriguing, exciting story.

“I’m very happy to be joining Wahala and to be working with such a brilliant team. It’s an intriguing story, and I’m excited to be a part of it,” she said.

Also speaking, Lindsay Salt, BBC director of drama, described the script as “an absolute joy and everything you would want from Nikki May’s exquisite book brought vividly to life.”

Diezani’s counsel faults UK prosecutors over ‘missing evidence’ as jury set for final verdict

2026-05-13T11:39:18.497+01:00

The defence and prosecution have closed their case in the ongoing trial of Diezani Alison-Madueke, former minister of petroleum resources in Nigeria, at the Southwark Crown Court in the United Kingdom.

The ex-minister is standing trial alongside Olatimbo Ayinde, an oil executive; and Doye Agama, her brother; on a five-count charge bordering on accepting bribes.

They have all pleaded not guilty to the charges.

British prosecutors had accused Alison-Madueke of accepting bribes in the form of luxury goods from industry figures.

The prosecutors had said Alison-Madueke was given high-end properties by people who believed that she would use her influence to favour them in oil contracts.

The former minister and her counsel had denied all the allegations.

Alison-Madueke was minister of petroleum resources from 2010 to 2015.

THE CLOSING SUBMISSIONS

During proceedings on Tuesday, Jonathan Laidlaw, the defendant’s counsel, rendered his closing arguments.

According to THISDAY, Laidlaw accused UK prosecutors of failing to prosecute the alleged bribe givers, relying on questionable evidence, and inability to provide some evidence necessary for the case.

The lead counsel argued that while Alison-Madueke was charged, the wealthy oil businessmen alleged to have paid bribes to her were never charged.

“One can be forgiven whether parliament, in its wisdom, when enacting the Bribery Act, could have contemplated this absurd situation where the people who are alleged to have paid the bribes are free, while the accused has been held prisoner for 11 years,” Laidlaw was quoted by THISDAY.

Laidlaw said officials of the UK’s National Crime Agency were absent during the raid on the Abuja residence of the former minister in October 2015.

The counsel said none of the items allegedly recovered during the operation were photographed in their original locations, adding that NCA does not even possess the original materials now being relied upon in court.

He alleged that key documents capable of supporting Alison-Madueke’s defence had disappeared, including records relating to reimbursements and official documentation connected to her ministerial duties.

The counsel faulted the prosecution’s claim that records showing the official movements of the former minister and fund disbursements do not exist.

Laidlaw faulted why the prosecution relied heavily on the evidence generated by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), while rejecting the agency’s correspondence tendered in support of co-defendant — Ayinde — as unreliable.

In his closing submission, Alexandra Healy, the lead prosecutor, reiterated allegations that some oil executives provided improper benefits to Alison-Madueke while their companies benefited from lucrative state contracts during her tenure as petroleum minister.

Healy told the jury that it was improper for a sitting minister to have her lifestyle funded by individuals doing business with the Nigerian state.

Healy disagreed with the defence’s argument that all benefits were reimbursed in Nigeria, adding that no documentary evidence of reimbursement has been produced and no such claim has been raised in earlier police interviews.

The prosecutor said the ex-federal minister was aware of the investigation for nearly a decade.

The prosecution mentioned a £1 million payment linked to Benedict Peters, a businessman, describing the use of intermediary structures as an “extraordinary device” designed to conceal the true nature of the transaction.

The jury is set to deliver its verdict later this week.

Singer Joeboy Blames Ego for Lack of Artist Collaboration

2026-05-13T11:20:53.334+01:00

Afrobeats singer Joeboy has said ego is affecting how Nigerian artists collaborate. Speaking in a recent interview with Cool FM Lagos alongside his colleague, Wizkid Chan, Joeboy claimed that some artists approach collaboration with a competitive mindset, seeking to outshine their collaborators.

Joeboy said he prefers to collaborate with artists with whom he has cordial relationships to prevent potential conflict of interest.

“It is easier for me to collaborate with artists that I am cool with or friends with. Because there will be no ego or inner competition. Personally, if I feature you, I expect you to outshine me in the song. That is why I featured you. So, I don’t get the competition,” he said.

On his part, Wizard Chan said, “My problem with collaboration is just ego. I would never interfere when you’re recording; you just also do the same. Some artists will ask for a feature and want to tell you how to do your job. That is wrong. Let me do my thing.

“The reason I would feature anybody is because I cannot do what they are doing. And I can not even tell them to sound like me or do my style. The aim of collaboration is to bring a different aspect to the song. And it is not a competition. But some artists would go as far as changing their verses when they hear their collaborator’s own and it sounds better than their’s. It is not supposed to be a competition,” he added.

Ribadu Being Quietly Sidelined Under Tinubu, Atiku’s Aide Alleges

2026-05-13T11:18:40.380+01:00

Paul Ibe, media aide to the African Democratic Congress, ADC, presidential aspirant, Atiku Abubakar, has alleged that the National Security Adviser, NSA, Nuhu Ribadu, has been sidelined by the President Bola Tinubu government.

It is reported that the recent appointment of Maj.-Gen. Adeyinka Fadewa (rtd.), as Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Homeland Security, has been raising dust.

A cross-section of Nigerians argued that the office of Homeland Security may replace the NSA, triggering speculation that there may be a fallout between the two.

Reacting, Ibe in a post on his X on Wednesday, alleged a face-off between Tinubu and Ribadu, saying that the NSA’s office has been quietly sidelined.

He linked the alleged feud to Ribadu’s recent trip to the United States, where the NSA met with the US Vice President and other officials.

He wrote, “It is no longer news that NSA Nuhu Ribadu has been quietly sidelined, and that a son of the soil, Retired Major General Adeyinka Famadewa, has been appointed in his stead as Special Adviser on Homeland Security à la US.

“It is obvious, as revealed by Mohammed Bello Doka in his write-up, that a lot of water has passed under the bridge in taking this decision.

“But it is being gathered that the final straw may have been Ribadu’s recent visit to the United States, during which he met VP JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio and his attempt to make a meal of that by having the news pictures published in multiple newspapers, knowing full well that his principal cannot travel to the US”.

JUST IN: Court Jails Ex-Minister Mamman 75 Years over N33.5m fraud

2026-05-13T11:15:43.581+01:00

The Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has sentenced former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, to 75 years in prison for stealing public funds totalling about ₦33.8 billion.

The court, in the judgment that was delivered by Justice James Omotosho, convicted and sentenced him on all the 12 -count fraud and money laundering charge preferred against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

Whereas he was handed seven years each on 10 counts of the charge, it jailed him three years and two years on counts four and five of the charge.

Justice Omotosho held that the sentence should run consecutively without option of fine except on count four which he allowed the payment of N10m fine.

Furthermore, the court ordered the forfeiture of various foreign currencies that were recovered from the convict, as well as four choice property in Abuja that were traced to him.

It will be recalled that the court had on May 7, convicted the former minister in absentia.

Justice Omotosho said he was satisfied that the anti-graft agency had successfully established the former Minister’s culpability beyond reasonable doubt.

He convicted him on all grounds of the charge marked FHC/ABJ/CR/273/2024.

Mamman, who served in the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari, was found complicit in the illegal diversion of public funds totalling

The court found that he made a cash payment of $655,700 (equivalent to ₦200 million) for landed property in Abuja, without recourse to a financial institution.

He was also found guilty of criminal breach of trust in relation to funds released by the federal government for the Mambilla and Zungeru Hydroelectric Power Plant projects.

The court noted that most of the funds were siphoned through Bureau de Change operators (BDCs), who converted the money into foreign currencies and handed it over to the defendant.

“The evidence of the prosecution is overwhelming as against the scanty and almost absent defence of the defendant.

“The defendant did not offer any credible evidence to rebut the prosecution’s case,” Justice Omotosho held.

The trial judge decried that the defendant, as Minister of Power, was not bothered about leaving a lasting legacy.

“Rather than creating a legacy to tackle the epileptic power supply in the country, the defendant was living large at the expense of ordinary citizens.

“Little wonder that Nigerians have remained in darkness till today,” the judge added.

Meanwhile, the defendant who was absent when he was convicted by the court, was also not present when the sentence was passed.

The court had issued a warrant for his arrest.

A lawyer, Mr. Mohammed Ahmed, who announced his appearance for the convict, told the court that he did not know his whereabouts, adding that calls placed to his phone lines had failed to connect.

After the sentencing, Justice Omotosho ordered all the security agencies to liaise with the Interpol to ensure the arrest of the convict.

The court held that the sentence should start running from the day of his arrest.

Lack of Father Figure Pushed Me into Drug Addiction – Nollywood Actor Bucci Franklin

2026-05-13T11:05:27.151+01:00

Award-winning Nollywood actor Bucci Franklin has opened up about his troubled childhood, disclosing that the absence of a father figure led him into drug addiction as he struggled to fill the emotional void.

In a candid interview with media personality Chude Jidenowo, Franklin described his upbringing as “messy,” revealing that his father abandoned the family, leaving his mother to raise him single-handedly.

“I was a hot mess as a child. My dad abandoned me. My mom raised me alone, and I turned to drugs,” the actor recounted.

He explained that the lack of a paternal presence negatively impacted his life, driving him to substance abuse at some point. However, Franklin credited his mother’s unwavering support and efforts for helping him overcome the addiction.

The movie star expressed deep gratitude to his mother, attributing his success in life and his thriving acting career to her sacrifices and resilience.

Franklin emphasised the challenges of single parenting, stressing the importance of a father figure in a child’s life, particularly for boys. “It is not easy to be a single parent,” he noted, adding that children, especially males, need that paternal guidance and presence.

The revelation has sparked conversations about family structure, parental responsibility, and the long-term effects of fatherlessness on young people, especially in the context of rising substance abuse among youths.

Akpabio Says Akwa Ibom Will Deliver South-South’s Highest Votes for Tinubu in 2027

2026-05-13T10:58:04.864+01:00

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has confidently predicted that Akwa Ibom State will produce the highest number of votes for President Bola Tinubu in the South-South geopolitical zone during the 2027 presidential election.

Akpabio made the declaration on Tuesday in Uyo while addressing critical stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC). The meeting was held ahead of Governor Umo Eno’s consultation with party leaders regarding his planned re-election bid.

In a statement issued by his Special Assistant on Media, Jackson Udom, Akpabio attributed the anticipated strong performance to Governor Eno’s effective leadership, developmental strides, and inclusive governance style that has fostered unity across party lines.

“The event of today shows that Governor Eno is a peaceful governor, a man of God in words and in deeds,” Akpabio said. “His peaceful disposition and ability to carry everybody along has given us the assurance that in the South-South geopolitical zone, Akwa Ibom will deliver the highest number of votes.”

The Senate President praised Governor Eno for engaging stakeholders in consultations despite facing no serious opposition for the APC governorship ticket, describing it as a sign of humility and political maturity. He also highlighted ongoing infrastructure projects, the completion of abandoned initiatives, and the commencement of international flights at Victor Attah International Airport as key achievements.

Akpabio further noted that the people of Akwa Ibom appreciate President Tinubu’s role in the emergence of an indigene as Senate President and would express their gratitude through massive support at the polls.

The remarks underscore growing APC confidence in the South-South region as political activities ahead of the 2027 elections intensify.

2027: Politicians Treat Zoning as Means to Win Presidential Election – Dele Momodu

2026-05-13T10:52:30.009+01:00

Prominent publisher and chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Dele Momodu, has criticised Nigerian politicians for using zoning as a primary strategy to secure victory in the 2027 presidential election rather than focusing on competence and governance issues.

Momodu made the remarks on Tuesday during a live interview on Arise Television’s Prime Time programme. He argued that political actors, particularly within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the camp of President Bola Tinubu, are pushing the zoning narrative because they believe it is their surest path to retaining power.

According to him, zoning has become a convenient distraction from the pressing economic and social challenges facing Nigerians. “Politicians now treat zoning as the only credential needed to win presidential elections,” Momodu said. “It’s a distraction, and I can say it without any fear of contradiction, that it is not what we need at this time.”

He acknowledged that those advocating for zoning have the right to their political preferences but stressed that winning elections ultimately requires effective strategy, ideas, and performance rather than relying solely on rotational arrangements.

The Ovation Magazine publisher’s comments come amid growing debates over power rotation ahead of the 2027 general elections, with various political interests already positioning themselves along regional and zoning lines.

NDC pegs presidential form at N40m, releases timetable for primary elections

2026-05-13T10:42:28.952+01:00

The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has announced the commencement of the sale of expression of interest and nomination forms for aspirants seeking elective positions ahead of the 2027 general election.

In a statement issued on Tuesday and signed by Moses Zuwoghe, national chairman; and Ikenna Enekweizu, national secretary; the party announced that the sale of expression of interest forms would commence on May 13 and conclude on May 18, 2026.

The party said the screening and interview of aspirants would take place from May 19 to May 21, 2026.

According to the timetable released by the party, the screening exercise would determine eligibility for the purchase of nomination forms.

The party advised aspirants to attend the screening exercise with their relevant credentials and supporting documents.

The NDC said the sale of nomination forms would commence immediately after the screening exercise from May 21 to May 23, while completed forms must be submitted on or before May 25, 2026.

The party said appeals arising from the screening process would be entertained between May 25 and May 26, while primary elections for various elective offices are scheduled for May 27 and May 28.

The NDC said its presidential primary election would hold on May 29, 2026, in Abuja.

The party said aspirants seeking tickets for state houses of assembly would be screened in their respective states, while screening for national assembly and presidential aspirants would take place at the party’s national headquarters in Abuja.

The NDC added that governorship primaries would be conducted at the local government level.

According to the statement, all aspirants would be required to sign an undertaking in line with the party’s guidelines and code of conduct.

The party assured members and aspirants of “a transparent, inclusive, and democratic process” in the sale of forms and conduct of primaries.

The NDC said it would adopt the “open secret ballot” system for its primaries to guarantee “credibility, fairness, and internal democracy”.

The party added that its approved nomination fees remain among the lowest among major political parties in the country.

According to the fee structure, expression of interest and nomination forms for state houses of assembly aspirants cost N1 million and N1.5 million, respectively.

The party fixed the fees for house of representatives aspirants at N2 million for expression of interest forms and N4 million for nomination forms.

The NDC said senate aspirants would pay N3 million for expression of interest forms and N5 million for nomination forms.

The party fixed governorship forms at N10 million for expression of interest and N20 million for nomination, while presidential aspirants are expected to pay N20 million and N40 million respectively.

The NDC said female aspirants and persons living with disabilities would pay 50 percent and 25 percent of the fees, respectively, across all categories.

Veekee James, husband welcome baby girl

2026-05-13T10:41:00.000+01:00

Fashion designer Veekee James and her husband, Femi Atere, have welcomed their first child, a baby girl named Eliana Adeife Atere.

The excited couple announced the arrival of their daughter in a Video shared on Instagram on Wednesday.

Sharing the meaning behind the child’s name, the couple explained that “EL” means God, while “ANA” means “He has answered,” together signifying, “My God has answered.”

They also cited the Bible verse, 1 Samuel 1:27, which reads: “For this child I prayed; and the Lord hath given me my petition which I asked of him.”

The couple revealed that baby Eliana was born on May 2, 2026.

Veekee and Atere married in a widely celebrated ceremony in February 2024, following their engagement in December 2023.

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UN Urges Independent Probes into Deadly Nigeria, Chad Airstrikes

2026-05-13T10:40:36.297+01:00

The UN rights chief on Wednesday demanded independent investigations into reports that separate airstrikes by the Nigerian and Chadian armies in northern Nigeria killed dozens of civilians.

The Nigerian military and the “bandit” gangs it is fighting killed around 100 civilians on Sunday in one of the bloodiest single days of the country’s conflict against armed groups, sources across the country told AFP.

Amnesty International’s Nigeria chapter said that Nigerian military airstrikes on a crowded market in the northwestern Zamfara state, reportedly controlled by criminal gangs, had killed “at least 100 civilians”.

A resident of a nearby village put the toll at 117.

“I am shocked by reports that Nigerian army airstrikes on a market in… Zamfara state killed at least 100 civilians on 10 May and injured many more,” United Nations high commissioner for human rights Volker Turk said in a statement.

He also said he was “alarmed and saddened” by the reports of high civilian casualties in attacks since Friday by Chadian fighter jets against Boko Haram camps on remote islands in the vast marshland shared by Nigeria, Cameroon, Niger and Chad.

The bombardment has reportedly killed dozens of Nigerian fishermen working on islands under Boko Haram control, where civilians are forced to pay taxes to the jihadist group.

Footage seen by AFP showed several fishermen with severe burns being treated at a hospital in Bosso, Niger.

“It is crucial that both Nigerian and Chadian authorities conduct prompt, thorough, independent and impartial investigations into these disturbing incidents,” Turk said.

The authorities in the two countries must also “ensure that those responsible for any violations are held to account, in accordance with international standards”, he insisted.

The UN rights chief said he “urgently (called) on both militaries to take all feasible precautions to avoid harm to civilians”.

“Their military operations, including against Boko Haram and the so-called ‘Islamic State West Africa Province’ must be conducted in full compliance with international humanitarian law and international human rights law,” he said.

“Civilians and civilian objects must never be the target of attack.”

Nasarawa 2027: ADC Chieftain Umar Withdraws from Governorship Race

2026-05-13T10:39:42.857+01:00

Veteran journalist and one of the youngest founding figures of Nasarawa State, Ayuba Umar, has officially withdrawn from the 2027 governorship race, citing principles of fairness, equity, and responsible leadership as reasons behind his decision.

Umar, a leading member of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), announced his withdrawal in a Facebook post on Tuesday after what he described as wide consultations and careful personal reflection.

Explaining his position, the former governorship aspirant said it would be politically unfair and morally difficult for him to remain in the contest because he shares the same senatorial district, local government area, and constituency with the incumbent governor, Engr. Abdullahi Sule.

According to him, leadership must be guided by consistency and justice, especially when advocating for balanced representation and zoning in the state.

“If I speak against political imbalance when others seek to benefit from it, then I must also reject it when I stand to gain. That is the true test of principled leadership and the responsibility that comes with integrity and accountability,” he stated.

Umar recalled that he had previously stepped aside in 2018 in the interest of political stability, noting that his latest decision was another sacrifice aimed at protecting democratic values and strengthening public trust in leadership.

“In 2018, I stepped aside for peace and stability. In 2026, I am stepping aside again to preserve the credibility of the principles that sustain democracy. This is not surrender; it is a reflection of conviction, character, and integrity,” he added.

Ayuba Umar had recently joined the African Democratic Congress after resigning from the People’s Redemption Party (PRP), where he was previously a prominent member.

2027 Zoning: Atiku Extremely Hypocritical, says Rufai Oseni

2026-05-13T10:38:57.465+01:00

Arise News anchor, Rufai Oseni, has blasted former Vice President Atiku Abubakar as being hypocritical.

Speaking on Arise Television, Rufai said the former Vice-President feels cool when zoning favours him but becomes different when it is opposite.

He was analysing zoning as the country prepares for the next year’s general elections.

“Atiku Abubakar should stop being hypocritical. When zoning favours him, he has no problem with it, but when it doesn’t favour him, he suddenly declares self-defeating.

“Is it not the same Atiku that went to court against Jonathan in 2011 to ensure the PDP zoning formula?

“There were many court cases. I think in one of the rulings, the courts said they can’t assume jurisdiction and give a decision, but they acknowledge the fact that PDP had the zoning arrangements.

“So, when he was going to court, when he was pushing them against Jonathan, zoning was not self defeating, right? How about when he left Olusegun Obasanjo in 2007,” he asked.