President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has nominated Thompson Oludare Sunday for appointment as the Managing Director of the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation (NDIC), News360 Nigeria reports.
Alongside him, the President also nominated Kabir Sabo Kataka for the role of Executive Director within the same institution.
This was disclosed in a letter sent to the Senate and read by Senate President Godswill Akpabio during plenary on Wednesday.
President Tinubu urged the lawmakers to consider and confirm both appointments to strengthen leadership within the NDIC.
Following the announcement, the Senate President directed the nominations to the Senate Committee on Banking, Insurance and Other Financial Institutions for legislative scrutiny and to report back to the Senate in due course.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the appointment of 36 new members to serve on the governing councils of several federal universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education across the country, News360 Nigeria reports.
The appointments aim to fill open positions and strengthen governance structures in the nation’s tertiary institutions.
According to a statement released on Wednesday, the appointments span federal universities of technology, agriculture, health sciences, aviation and aerospace, as well as polytechnics and colleges of education.
Some of the notable appointments include:
I. AFRICAN AVIATION AND AEROSPACE UNIVERSITY, ABUJA Hon. Chidi Nwogu, Member, Imo State
II. UNIVERSITY OF JOS, PLATEAU STATE Dr Folashade Mulikat Kareem, Member, Kwara State
III. FEDERAL UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY, IKOT-ABASI, AKWA IBOM STATE Dipe Olusina Adeniyi, Member, Lagos State
IV. FEDERAL UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY, BABURA, JIGAWA STATE Akanimo Umoh, Member, Akwa Ibom State
V. ABUBAKAR TAFAWA BALEWA UNIVERSITY, BAUCHI STATE Mr Babatunde Usman Jinadu, Member, Lagos State
VI. FEDERAL UNIVERSITY, DUTSE, JIGAWA STATE Chijioke Paul Okeifufe, Member, Enugu State
VII. FEDERAL UNIVERSITY, KASHERE, GOMBE STATE Hon. Babatunde Olokun, Member, Ogun State Hon. Isah Ambaka, Member, Nasarawa State
VIII. FEDERAL UNIVERSITY, WUKARI, TARABA STATE Dr Olusegun Ategbole, Member, Ondo State
IX. FEDERAL UNIVERSITY, GASHUA, YOBE STATE Hon. Isa Song, Member, Adamawa State Hon. Bernard Miko, Member, Rivers State.
X. FEDERAL UNIVERSITY OF HEALTH SCIENCES, ILA ORANGUN, OSUN STATE Mr Muyideen Balogun, Member, Ogun State
XI. FEDERAL UNIVERSITY OF AGRICULTURE, ZURU, KEBBI STATE Hon. Mayegun Yomi, Member, Lagos State
XII. FEDERAL UNIVERSITY, GUSAU, ZAMFARA STATE Hon. Abbas Braimah, Member, Edo State
XIII. FEDERAL UNIVERSITY, LAFIA, NASARAWA STATE Dr Adebimpe Adebajo, Member, Ondo State
XIV. NIGERIA ARABIC LANGUAGE VILLAGE, BORNO STATE Hon. Bawa Bwari, Member, Niger State
XV. FEDERAL UNIVERSITY OF HEALTH SCIENCES, KATSINA, KATSINA STATE Hon. Bello Bagudu, Member, Kebbi State Hon. Nasarawa Mani, Member, Katsina State
XVI. FEDERAL POLYTECHNIC ISUOCHI, UMUNNOECHI, ABIA STATE Hon. Shehu Kagara, Member, Kaduna State
XVII. FEDERAL POLYTECHNIC, OKO, ANAMBRA STATE Dr Francis Ogbise, Member, Bayelsa State
XVIII. FEDERAL POLYTECHNIC, MUNGUNO, BORNO STATE Hon. Almajiri Geidam, Member, Yobe State
XIX. FEDERAL POLYTECHNIC, OROGUN, DELTA STATE Rahila Ilegbodu, Member, Taraba State
XX. NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF CONSTRUCTION TECHNOLOGY, UROMI, EDO STATE Hon. Shehu Lambu, Member, Kano State
XXI. FEDERAL POLYTECHNIC, KALTUNGO, GOMBE STATE Hon. Yusuf Bello Mai Adua, Member, Sokoto State
XXII. HUSSAINI ADAMU FEDERAL POLYTECHNIC, KAZAURE, JIGAWA STATE Saleh Mohammed, Member, Jigawa State
XXIII. FEDERAL POLYTECHNIC, DAURA, KATSINA STATE Hon. Adekola Aliu, Member, Osun State
XXIV. FEDERAL POLYTECHNIC, OFFA, KWARA STATE Waidi Olajire Ayinla, Member, Osun State
XXV. FEDERAL POLYTECHNIC, N’YAK, PLATEAU STATE Hon. Hashimu Abdullahi, Member, Sokoto State
XXVI. FEDERAL POLYTECHNIC, BALI, TARABA STATE Hon. Abdullahi Abubakar (At Ningi), Member, Bauchi State
XXVII. FEDERAL COLLEGE OF EDUCATION, GWOZA, BORNO STATE Ibrahim Abba Geidam, Member, Yobe State
XXVIII. FEDERAL COLLEGE OF EDUCATION, PANKSHIN, PLATEAU STATE Mohammed Nura, Member, Kebbi State
XXIX. FEDERAL COLLEGE OF EDUCATION (TECHNICAL), ISU, EBONYI STATE Hon. Abdulkadir Usman Global, Member, Kaduna State
Bleep. FEDERAL COLLEGE OF EDUCATION (TECHNICAL), EKIADOLOR, EDO STATE Hon. Usman Balkore, Member, Sokoto State
XXXI. FEDERAL COLLEGE OF EDUCATION, ODUGBO, BENUE STATE Hon. Goodluck Opiah, Member, Imo State
XXXII. FEDERAL COLLEGE OF EDUCATION, OMOKU, RIVERS STATE Hon. Bassey Etim, Member, Akwa Ibom State Hon. Chris Eta, Member, Cross River State Hon. Shuaib Yahaya, Member, Katsina State
XXXIII. FEDERAL COLLEGE OF EDUCATION (SPECIAL), OYO, OYO STATE Hon. Sani M. Anka, Member, Zamfara State
XXXIV. FEDERAL COLLEGE OF EDUCATION (TECHNICAL), KEANA, NASARAWA STATE Hon. Yusuf Dikko, Member, Jigawa State
XXXV. FEDERAL COLLEGE OF EDUCATION, ILAWE, EKITI STATE Hon. Deacon Taiye, Member, Kwara State
XXXVI. FEDERAL COLLEGE OF EDUCATION (TECHNICAL), ASABA, DELTA STATE Hon. Isa Lawal Doro, Member, Katsina State
The appointments cover all six geopolitical zones, reflecting a deliberate effort by the administration to ensure equitable representation and inject new leadership into the boards of these key academic institutions.
The newly appointed council members are expected to play pivotal roles in policy formulation, financial oversight, and institutional governance as Nigeria continues its drive for educational reform and infrastructure development within its tertiary education sector.
Seven persons have been killed in a lone accident involving a truck laden with cement along Katsina-Ala-Zaki Biam Road, News360 Nigeria reports.
The accident, which occured, weekend, left some other occupants of the truck with injuries.
According to an eyewitness, “The cement truck with about 600 bags of cement was on top speed while heading towards Zaki Biam when the driver hit a pothole and lost control. The vehicle tumbled over, leaving seven persons dead and some others injured.
“In fact, it was the quick intervention of the locals that saved the lives of six of the occupants of the truck, who sustained injuries as two others escaped unhurt.”
Confirming the development, Sector Commander of Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC, Steve Ayodele said 15 people were involved in the accident.
He also confirmed that the debris of the ill fated truck had been removed from the road to allow for free flow of traffic.
Two individuals sustained serious injuries on Thursday when a training aircraft crash-landed at the Ilorin International Airport in Kwara State, News360 Nigeria reports.
The Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance at the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB), Mrs Bimbo Oladeji, confirmed the incident in a statement.
According to her, the aircraft crash occurred at about 5:28pm local time on May 23, 2025, during a simulated instrument approach exercise on Runway 05 of the airport.
She explained that the aircraft veered off the runway before coming to a stop on the grass verge, leaving both occupants of the aircraft seriously injured.
“Both sustained serious injuries and were swiftly evacuated to a medical facility, coordinated by the Nigerian Airspace Management Agency (NAMA),” Oladeji stated.
Following the incident, the NSIB announced that its Go-Team was preparing to depart Abuja for Ilorin to commence an on-site investigation.
The team is expected to secure the crash site, gather physical evidence, speak with eyewitnesses, and recover operational data to determine the root cause and contributing factors.
The Director General of the NSIB, Captain Alex Badeh Jr., expressed sympathy for the victims, praising the emergency teams for their quick response.
He noted that uncovering the cause of the accident would help improve safety in the country’s aviation sector.
“Our thoughts are with the injured, and we commend the swift medical and emergency response.
Now, our focus is on understanding exactly what went wrong. Every investigation is an opportunity to improve safety.
We are deploying our team to Ilorin to ensure that no detail is overlooked,” he said.
A United States district court has sentenced a Nigerian national, Henry Ezeonyido, to 27 months in prison for masterminding a health insurance scam that defrauded several insurers of over $1 million through fake international medical claims, News360 Nigeria reports.
Ezeonyido, aged 37, was also directed to pay $655,313 in restitution and forfeit $396,998 believed to be proceeds from the fraudulent activities.
In addition to the jail term, he will undergo three years of supervised release after completing his sentence.
The United States Department of Justice revealed in a statement that between October 2019 and February 2022, Ezeonyido filed false claims to five insurance companies, alleging that he and at least seven others had received emergency medical care abroad for severe injuries such as gunshot wounds, stabbings, and car accidents.
According to the statement, Ezeonyido was arrested and charged alongside his accomplices, Brendon Ashe, Aqiyla Atherton, Darline Cobbler, and Ariel Lambert, in July 2024.
He was later indicted by a federal grand jury in September 2024. The four co-defendants pleaded guilty to their roles in the fraud and were sentenced to probation.
The Justice Department disclosed that most of the claims included fabricated injuries that supposedly required hospitalisation overseas, while in reality, the individuals remained in the United States during the alleged incidents.
The fraudulent submissions led to insurance companies disbursing about $655,313 to those involved, with some reportedly offering kickbacks to Ezeonyido for organising the scheme.
It further noted that the scam saw health insurance firms billed over $1 million for treatments that were never provided, with Ezeonyido personally retaining close to $396,998 from the fraud.
U.S. Attorney Foley, commenting on the development, highlighted the importance of the sentencing in curbing healthcare fraud, stating, “Healthcare fraud affects every American through increased premiums and reduced trust in the system.”
The Progressive Governors Forum (PGF) has officially endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the sole candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the 2027 presidential election, News360 Nigeria reports.
The announcement was made by the Imo State Governor and chairman of the forum, Hope Uzodimma, during the APC summit held on Thursday in Abuja.
Uzodimma, speaking on behalf of his colleagues, confirmed that all APC governors are united in their support for Tinubu’s re-election bid.
He stated, “For Nigeria to reach its desired prosperity faster, the president should be adopted as our flag bearer for the 2027 presidential election, for a second term in office.”
Governor Uzodimma further charged the APC governors to actively promote the federal government’s policies in their respective states and ensure the party’s victory in all upcoming elections.
He then formally moved a motion for Tinubu’s adoption as the party’s sole candidate for the next presidential race.
Supporting the motion, Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani declared his backing for Tinubu’s second-term ambition.
“I rise to second the motion as ably moved by the chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum, the governor of Imo State, His Excellency Hope Uzodimma, that this August gathering pass a vote of confidence on our able and amiable president, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as the sole candidate of APC come 2027 general election,” he said.
This endorsement follows the vote of confidence passed by APC governors from the North-Central geopolitical zone in support of Tinubu’s administration on Wednesday.
Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, has said that lawmakers were not elected to engage in confrontation with the Executive but to work in partnership for the progress of Nigeria, News360 Nigeria reports.
Akpabio made the remarks in a feature documentary set to mark two years of the Bola Tinubu administration.
According to a statement by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Akpabio insisted that legislators were elected to make laws that advance the nation’s interest, not to act as political antagonists.
“When elected into the National Assembly, whether in the Senate or the House of Representatives, your constituents will not give you boxing gloves. It’s not a boxing tournament. You are there to work in a bipartisan manner for the interest of Nigeria,” Akpabio said.
The Senate President explained that the cordial relationship between the National Assembly and the Executive arm over the past two years has been made possible by a shared vision for Nigeria’s development.
“If you spend all your energy fighting the Executive, who will work for Nigeria?” he asked.
He noted that the current administration is unprecedented in Nigerian history, with a President, Vice President, and First Lady who are all former senators, a factor he said has strengthened mutual understanding between both arms of government.
Highlighting legislative priorities, Akpabio revealed that the National Assembly is working on a law to compel ministries, departments and agencies to prioritise the purchase of locally assembled vehicles over foreign ones.
“We have started the bill for enacting legislation to enable us first purchase automobiles from Nigerian companies before thinking of importing them,” he said.
According to him, Nigeria loses billions of dollars annually to vehicle imports and other goods that could easily be produced within the country.
He blamed the collapse of key sectors like the textile, cotton, groundnut, and palm oil industries on the country’s overreliance on imports, noting that other countries like Malaysia have succeeded economically by leveraging resources such as palm oil.
“Over 50 textile companies have left Nigeria. The cotton industry collapsed. The groundnut industry collapsed. The palm oil industry collapsed. Look at countries like Malaysia that have leveraged palm oil to boost their economies,” he said.
Akpabio praised the Tinubu administration’s “Nigeria First” policy and described it as a “fantastic” initiative that deserves full legislative support.
He disclosed that consultations are ongoing with the Raw Materials Research and Development Council to draft laws aimed at boosting local production.
“We are going to make laws and produce bills that ensure almost every item we consume that can be produced in Nigeria is produced in Nigeria.
“Taking Nigeria First means bringing industries back to the country to serve our population of over 200 million,” he said.
The Senate President also called for more support for local entrepreneurs, adding that Nigeria’s large consumer base makes small-scale businesses potentially profitable.
“Even if you produce vinegar and bag it well, it will fly. If you produce bread, you will be a millionaire considering the kind of population that we have,” Akpabio stated.
Akpabio pushed back against criticisms that the legislature under his leadership has acted merely as a rubber stamp for the Executive.
He said the Senate has, on occasion, rejected some of Tinubu’s nominees and amended proposals that did not align with public interest.
“People forget that we have made enemies by rejecting some of the nominees that the President sent to us. It’s not everything the President brings that he takes back the same way,” he said.
He added that the National Assembly scrutinises every bill from the Executive and works to ensure each one meets the realities and needs of Nigerians.
“Our job is to make sure we cross the T’s and dot the I’s to assist the President in having the best for the Nigerian population,” he said.
Akpabio assured all that the 10th National Assembly will continue to prioritise legislation that improves the quality of life of citizens and supports the President’s reform agenda.
“This government is not a government of theory; it’s a government of action. So, for us in the National Assembly, we are very focused on pro-people legislation,” he said.
He cited landmark bills such as the Student Loan Act, Tax Reform Bills, and the Minimum Wage Bill as examples of the Assembly’s achievements so far.
“We have done quite a lot in just two years. I assure Nigerians that more people-focused laws are coming: laws that will reduce hardship, open the economy, and empower young people,” Akpabio said.
He added, “From the perspective of the National Assembly, we have scrutinised almost every bill that the President has brought. We have aligned it with the Nigerian people’s realities and needs and supported it by ensuring they are speedily passed.
“We don’t waste time on anything that will enhance the living standard of Nigerians.”
The Abia State government has announced the postponement of the commissioning of the popular Port Harcourt Road in Aba, News360 Nigeria reports.
The commissioner for Information in Abia State, Okey Kanu, said that the project commissioning by the president has been rescheduled for a later date.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Kanu simply said the exercise has been put off.
“I am sure some of you may have been hearing about it through the grapevine, so this is like a formal announcement that that exercise has been put off.
“I recall that Mr. President, Senator Ahmed Bola Tinubu was to be on hand to flag off that project, but due to his schedule at this time, he elected to come to the state sometime in early June to flag off the project,” Kanu stated.
Recall that President Tinubu was billed to visit Abia state before May 29, his second anniversary in office as president.
In a previous statement, the state government had said that the president would be in the state to commission the road, which was rehabilitated by Governor Alex Otto after it was abandoned by previous administrations for over three decades.
Panic gripped residents of Abuja on Monday following yet another fatal road accident at Karu Bridge along Nyanya-Mararaba axis, barely 24 hours after an earlier crash claimed lives in the same area, News360 Nigeria reports.
According to reports, Monday evening’s incident involved a trailer and a vehicle conveying sachet water, leaving several feared dead and causing a heavy traffic gridlock on the usually congested road as emergency workers struggled to evacuate victims and clear the wreckage.
This came less than a day after a Sunday evening accident involving seven vehicles occurred on the same Karu Bridge.
Eyewitnesses said the crash involved a trailer and a vehicle conveying sachet water, commonly referred to as “pure water.”
The twin tragedies have renewed concerns over the frequency of accidents around Karu Bridge.
It was gathered that at least two fatal crashes were also recorded in the area last month, resulting in multiple casualties.
Gunmen suspected to be members of the notorious Lakurawa gang launched a brutal attack on Zagami village in Danko/Wasagu Local Government Area of Kebbi State on Sunday, News360 Nigeria reports.
The assailants stormed a church service, abducting multiple Christian worshippers.
News360 Nigeria reports that the attackers, who arrived on motorcycles, opened fire sporadically during the morning worship, creating chaos and panic among the congregants.
They then abducted an undisclosed number of people, forcibly taking them into the nearby forest.
One of the survivors, Mr. Ezekiel Danjuma, narrowly escaped the ordeal and described the harrowing experience.
He said the gunmen came in large numbers, surrounding the church before launching their deadly assault.
“They came suddenly, in large numbers, and before we knew what was happening, they had already encircled the entire church,” Danjuma said.
At the time of filing this report, the exact number of abducted individuals had not been confirmed, and security operatives were yet to make any official statement regarding the incident.
The attack adds to the growing wave of insecurity in parts of Northern Nigeria, where armed groups have repeatedly targeted communities, schools, and places of worship.
Residents are calling for urgent intervention from both state and federal authorities to restore peace and ensure the safe return of those taken.
“It was terrifying. They came shooting and forced their way into the church. Some of us managed to escape through the back, but they took many people with them,” Danjuma said.
The incident has sparked fear and mourning in Zagami, a quiet farming community in the Kebbi South Senatorial District, which comprises seven local government areas: Danko/Wasagu, Fakai, Ngaski, Sakaba, Shanga, Yauri, and Zuru.
As of the time of filing this report, police authorities were yet to issue an official statement.
Residents are, however, calling on the Kebbi State Government and security agencies to intensify efforts to rescue the abductees and strengthen security in the region to prevent further attacks.
The Federal Government has confirmed the full redemption of the first ₦100 billion Sukuk bond issued in 2017 to creditors, News360 Nigeria reports.
Director-General of the Debt Management Office (DMO), Ms. Patience Oniha, disclosed this on Monday during an investor meeting in Abuja for the issuance of the Federal Government of Nigeria’s ₦300 billion Series VII Sukuk.
Ms. Oniha also revealed that the country’s total public debt now stands at ₦144.67 trillion, evenly split between external and domestic borrowings.
“This means that all those who subscribed to the Sukuk in 2017 have now received full repayment of their investments, in addition to the interest they were paid upfront,” she explained.
Speaking on the latest ₦300 billion Sukuk issuance, Oniha noted that Nigeria’s recent credit rating upgrade by Fitch Ratings reflects the country’s ongoing progress in economic and debt management reforms.
“Being upgraded by Fitch means we are doing something right. Growth and development is a journey—it doesn’t happen all at once. But with the right fiscal and monetary policies in place, we are making tangible progress,” she said.
She emphasized the importance of the upgrade, stating that it directly affects investment decisions, business performance, and market pricing.
On foreign exchange, the DMO boss praised the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) for recent reforms in the FX market, noting that the Naira has become more stable compared to the same period in 2024.
“This time last year, the Naira’s value was fluctuating daily. Since Q4 2023, however, due to policy interventions—some of which were unpopular—we’ve seen more stability in the exchange rate and improved supply. The market is no longer experiencing the scarcity it once did,” [/b]Oniha stated.
She added that the CBN’s move to disclose Nigeria’s net reserve position also contributed to improved investor confidence and transparency in the FX space.
[b]Commenting on the oil sector, Oniha expressed optimism about future growth following President Bola Tinubu’s new policy initiatives.
However, she acknowledged that Nigeria still relies heavily on oil and gas revenues in the short term.
On the breakdown of Nigeria’s current debt profile, she said the December 2024 figure stands at ₦144.67 trillion, with updated data for March 2025 to be released soon.
She attributed the increase in total debt stock to two main factors: exchange rate conversion and the inclusion of Ways and Means advances.
“The external debt stock has been relatively stable—around $42.5 billion—until the addition of $2.2 billion in Eurobonds in December. However, as the Naira depreciated, the debt stock increased when converted to local currency. In dollar terms, the debt has either remained flat or declined,” she clarified.
“The second reason for the jump in debt stock is the inclusion of about ₦30 trillion in Ways and Means advances, which were borrowed based on legislative approvals, as provided in the budget,” she added.
On the composition of external debt, Ms. Oniha said Nigeria maintains a diversified portfolio, borrowing from a mix of multilateral, bilateral, and commercial sources.
“We’re not dependent on one source. Our creditors include the World Bank, African Development Bank, and bilateral partners such as China, India, Germany, and Japan. While Eurobonds are well-known, they make up only a portion of our funding. Over 60 percent of our external debt stock comes from multilateral and bilateral sources,” she concluded.
A tragic incident has marred the annual Imo Awka Festival in Awka, Anambra State, as a masquerade lost his life after being struck by a tricycle, commonly known as Keke NAPEP, on Sunday, News360 Nigeria reports.
The fatal accident reportedly happened while the masquerade was walking along the road during the festival celebrations.
Eyewitnesses at the scene said the tricycle driver was promptly apprehended following the incident.
The unfortunate event casts a somber shadow over the traditional festival, which is known for its vibrant cultural displays and community participation.
“One masquerade was hit by a Keke NAPEP on Sunday, and his head was crushed. It was indeed a sad development,” an eyewitness recounted.
The Imo Awka Festival, which attracts visitors from within and outside Nigeria, is set to officially begin on May 19 and climax on May 24.
In past celebrations, the police implemented measures to control movement during the festival, but it is unclear if those measures are still in place this year.
The festival typically lasts about a week, with masquerades taking to the streets to entertain crowds in the days leading up to the main event.
Previous editions have witnessed incidents of fatalities, raising questions about the safety of the celebrations.
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has said that former Niger Delta militant leader, Chief Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, will be questioned over alleged naira abuse, News360 Nigeria reports.
In a post on its official X (formerly Twitter) handle on Monday, the anti-graft agency reiterated that no one is above the law.
“Nobody is above the law. Tompolo will have questions to answer!” the post read, accompanied by a picture showing the alleged abuse of the naira.
The controversy stems from a viral video shared on X.com on Sunday by user Harrison A, who tweets as #harreceipts. The caption read, “EFCC, see Tompolo and the Naira o.”
The video, reportedly taken during Tompolo’s 54th birthday celebration in April, shows him dancing while a man sprays ₦1,000 notes in front of him.
The footage triggered a wave of criticism and calls for action on social media, with users accusing the EFCC of selective enforcement.
Najeeb Bello, tweeting as #NejeebBello, wrote: “Once e reach their Oga and him friends, ‘Eee Eff See See’ go turn ‘Eee Eff Blind Blind’. No be just Tompolo, but what of these Folawiyo Eleganza sons wey record and publish video of themselves dey abuse Naira?”
Another user, #OurFavOnlineDoc, added: “Here is Tompolo mutilating the Naira. I know the eyes of that your eagle will suddenly go blind, but I am bringing this to your attention publicly so the whole world will see you are a shameless agency with double standards.”
Similarly, Meek Raphael, tweeting as #MeekRapheal, commented: “Okoya’s son is still walking freely and you expect them to go for Tompolo? Their laws are only effective when the offender is not from the rich class. Same with every security agency in Nigeria — none is truly for the masses.”
The EFCC has previously taken action against public figures over similar infractions. In the past, popular Lagos socialite Emeka Okonkwo (aka E-Money) was arrested for allegedly abusing the naira and defacing foreign currencies by spraying U.S. dollars.
Last week, Nollywood actress Iyabo Ojo and comedian Ayo Makun were also invited for questioning over allegations related to currency spraying.
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory and former Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, has arrived at the venue for the crucial Peoples Democratic Party stakeholders meeting, News360 Nigeria reports.
Wike, who arrived at the Bauchi Governor’s Lodge in Abuja, stepped out of his vehicle and proceeded directly inside to join other governors, former governors, and members of the National Working Committee for the meeting.
The gathering seeks to chart a course for party unity, address internal leadership disputes, and prepare for upcoming electoral contests, including the off-cycle governorship election in Anambra State.
Also in attendance were: Governors Ademola Adeleke of Osun, Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau, Seyi Makinde of Oyo, and Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa.
Former Senate President Bukola Saraki and notable former governors like Liyel Imoke, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, and Olagunsoye Oyinlola, were also present.
However, some significant absences have drawn attention, including Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Bayelsa’s Douye Diri, Akwa Ibom’s Umo Eno, and Taraba’s Agbu Kefas.
These gaps further reflect the growing cracks within the party’s leadership and ranks.
According to insider sources, the meeting’s agenda involves resolving conflicts within the National Working Committee, particularly concerning the roles of Acting National Chairman Ambassador Iliya Damagum and the National Secretary.
Discussions may also cover possible coalition talks with other opposition groups or strategies to consolidate the party’s internal structure.
The decisions and resolutions from the Abuja meeting are expected to shape the PDP’s path in the coming months, influencing its strength as an opposition force and its ability to contest key political battles, including the 2027 presidential race.
An Air Peace aircraft was forced to halt operations after it collided with an antelope while taxiing on the runway of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, according to a footage obtained by News360 Nigeria
The incident, which resulted in the animal being crushed, left the aircraft classified as Aircraft on Ground (AOG) and caused disruptions to the airline’s scheduled flights.
Confirming the occurrence, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) said through its Director of Public Affairs & Consumer Protection, Mr. Michael Achimugu, that such unexpected events are part of the operational challenges that sometimes lead to flight delays.
Posting on X (formerly Twitter), Achimugu explained, “Monitoring reports yesterday indicated that an Air Peace aircraft ran into a large antelope, decimating the animal and leaving the aircraft on ground.
As a result, flights meant to be operated by this aircraft would naturally be disrupted, even though engineers are on the ground to assess and fix the plane. Passengers waiting would naturally be infuriated.”
He added that while the incident was beyond Air Peace’s control, the airline is still responsible for promptly informing passengers, issuing refunds when necessary, and providing care.
He warned that the NCAA would sanction the airline if it failed to meet its obligations.
A source close to Air Peace, while speaking with News360 Nigeria, clarified that the incident happened during landing and was immediately handled in line with aviation procedures.
“It happened upon landing. As an aviation procedure, the aircraft has been checked and fixed. It was not a big issue,” the source noted.
In the meantime, the NCAA has assured travelers of safety at the Abuja airport and promised to investigate how the animal found its way onto the runway, with a view to preventing a recurrence.
The Abia State Government has announced plans to convert the newly constructed Government House, built by the immediate past Governor, Okezie Ikpeazu, into a five-star hotel, News360 Nigeria reports.
The decision was made public by the Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, following a tour of the three-storey complex. Kanu described the structure as “uninhabitable and a security risk”, accusing the former administration of erecting what he called “an uninhabitable structure in the name of a Government House,” which was hastily inaugurated 24 hours before Ikpeazu left office.
“Not Meant to Be a Government House”
Kanu argued that the complex was never intended for residential use, emphasizing its lack of essential facilities.
“This place appears uninhabitable. There are no wardrobes anywhere. Most of what we saw were just halls—empty halls,” he stated during the tour with journalists.
The Commissioner questioned the logic behind the design, expressing disbelief that the structure was expected to serve as a Government House.
“One begins to wonder what the designers had in mind when they put up this so-called Government House and expected a Governor to live in it,” Kanu remarked.
Incomplete and Unsafe Structure
Kanu highlighted that only the first floor of the building appeared to be completed, with the remaining floors unfinished and the elevator not installed. He expressed concerns over the safety hazards, pointing out that “if anybody missteps there, you can fall through the place to your death.”
He accused the Ikpeazu administration of rushing the project to create a facade of accomplishment, despite its incomplete and unsafe state.
“You can see a lot of the places were not plastered… The whole place looks dangerous,” Kanu stressed.
New Government House Plans and Hotel Conversion
The Commissioner revealed that Governor Alex Otti has directed that a new Government House be constructed at the old Government House site. He also dismissed claims by the past administration that the old Government House was a rented property, stating that it was duly acquired by the state government.
“Those who were in office before now were busy paying themselves rent from government coffers, deceiving the public that they were paying rent for a Government House,” Kanu alleged.
The Ogurube Layout complex—initially intended as a Government House—will be transformed into a five-star hotel under Otti’s directive. Kanu noted that Governor Otti, known for his prudent management of resources, would not allow waste, insisting that the transformation would benefit the state economically.
He concluded by urging Abians to disregard opposition criticisms and continue to support the current administration’s vision for progress.
The Managing Director of Dutum Construction Ltd, Mr Temitope Runsewe, has described the newly completed ‘Iconic Light of the Nation Tower’ in Anambra State as a major addition to Nigeria’s tourism landscape, News360 Nigeria reports.
Runsewe made this known on Thursday in Awka during the inauguration of key projects by President Bola Tinubu.
Among the commissioned projects were the Solution FunCity, Anambra Country Club, New Government House, Government Lodge, New Presidential Lodge, and the Emeka Anyaoku Centre at Nnamdi Azikiwe University.
Speaking at the unveiling of the ‘Light of the Nation Tower’, Runsewe explained that the structure symbolises the state’s slogan and was conceptualised under the leadership of Governor Chukwuma Soludo.
He stated, “The tower is not just a beautification project but a tourist attraction for residents and visitors alike.”
“It stands as a visual landmark and a long-term economic asset that boosts Anambra’s tourism profile.”
According to him, the 40-metre-high tower, which features a water fountain at its base and a globe at the top to symbolise the state’s identity, was constructed within six months through dedication and professional expertise.
Runsewe further noted that the project reflects the result of effective collaboration between a forward-thinking government and a capable construction firm, emphasising its significance in shaping the state’s image on the national tourism map.
The Benue State House of Assembly has threatened legal action against the House of Representatives over the summons issued to the Speaker, Hyacinth Dajoh and the leadership of the House, News360 Nigeria reports.
The House of Representatives Committee on Public Petitions few days ago summoned the Governors of Benue and Zamfara states alongside the leadership of their Houses of Assembly to appear before the Committee on Thursday, May 8, 2025 to explain why their functions should not be taken over by the House of Representatives.
The summon was sequel to a petition allegedly written by a group, Guardians of Democracy and Rule of Law urging the House to take over the functions of the two Houses of Assembly of the states.
The Chief Press Secretary to the Benue State Assembly Speaker, Terver Zamber in a statement, said the House also passed a resolution calling on the Speaker, Hyacinth Dajoh, to disregard the summons from the National Assembly.
The Assembly in the statement argued that “the summons contravene the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (1999) as amended.
“The House plans to take legal action against the National Assembly, while also requesting investigations by the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and the Inspector General of Police into the individuals who signed the petition.
“The State House Assembly also called on the National Assembly Caucus from Benue State (Senate/ Reps) to come for proper engagement with the House to explain why the State is portrayed in bad light at the National Assembly.”
Lending his voice on the petition against the House, Majority Leader, Mr. Saater Tiseer noted that “the notice sent by the National Assembly was out of ignorance.”
According to him, “by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Benue State House of Assembly is not answerable to the National Assembly. Section (101) has given the House the powers to legislate on its business without external control.”
On his part, the Member representing Katsina- Ala West State Constituency, Peter Ipusu accepted the decision of the House to take the National Assembly to court adding that the Guidance of Democracy should be joined in the suit for misleading the National Assembly.
Gunmen suspected to be herdsmen on Sunday night hijacked a commercial vehicle along the Otukpo-Adoka road in Benue State, killing the driver and abducting all passengers on board, News360 Nigeria reports.
The incident occurred around 11 p.m. as the vehicle was en route to Otukpo from Abuja.
Eyewitnesses told News360 Nigeria that the attackers opened fire as soon as they sighted the vehicle, causing the driver to lose control and veer off the road into nearby bushes after being hit by a bullet.
The assailants subsequently abducted all the passengers before abandoning the vehicle at the scene.
The body of the slain driver, identified as a native of Adoka, has been recovered and taken to his hometown.
Meanwhile, military personnel have arrived at the scene and launched a manhunt for the attackers.
Senator Ireti Kingibe has charged Nigerian youths to stop complaining and take active steps in reclaiming their country from politicians who have not done enough in turning around the situation of the country, News360 Nigeria reports.
The lawmaker specifically mentioned political figures like Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, as examples of those whose political dominance needs to be challenged.
Speaking boldly, Kingibe said, “Nigerian youths do nothing but complain.”
“It’s time they rise, confront politicians like Wike, and take back their country”, she said.
“We need to have constructive interactions, all I hear is crumbling, insults online, thats not helpful”, she further stated
News360 Nigeria reports that Kingibe’s comments come at a time where the country is facing hardship, economic woes and political tensions.
No fewer than four soldiers lost their lives when suspected Boko Haram terrorists attacked 27 Task Force Brigade, Buni Yadi, Gujba local government area of Yobe State, News360 Nigeria reports.
Sources also said, several operational equipment belonging to the troops of ‘Operation Hadin Kai’ were destroyed while others were looted by the armed terrorists.
This is coming less than 24 hours after the North East Governors Forum held its routine/11th meeting in Damaturu, the state capital and adopted a multidimensional approach to tackle insurgency in the region.
The incident which took place on Saturday came at a time when the new Theatre Commander, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, took over the mantle of leadership, after his predecessor, Major General Waidi Shaib,u was untimely removed.
A security source, who escaped the attack, told our correspondent that the assailants stormed their location around 2.am on Saturday through the western direction.
“We were taken off guard by the heavy explosion and gunfire, but we stood our ground. A lot of our fighting equipment has been destroyed during the encounter.
“Yes, we lost four of our men, just as they also recorded casualties during the fierce battle that lasted for hours”. He said
The Nigerian army headquarters confirmed the attack via its verified Facebook page on Saturday morning.
“Troops of Operation HADIN KAI are currently in a fierce battle against an ISWAP attack at Buni Gari, Yobe State. Details later,” it stated.
However, the military is yet to give further details on the casualties as at the time of filing this report.
Buni Yadi is the country home of Yobe State governor, Mai Mala Buni, and a distance of 65km from Damaturu, the state capital.
Local source who fled to the local Council’s headquarters, Buni Yadi, said many residents have fled their homes to areas they consider safe, even as the Biu- Damaturu-Maiduguri road was temporarily closed which prevent motorists and passengers reach their destinations on time.
“The military had shut down vehicular movement on the busy road, which serves as a link between Yobe and Biu and other towns in southern Borno,” a passenger, Mallam Musa Isa said.
Suspended Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has returned to Port Harcourt following a two-week vacation overseas according a video obtained by News360 Nigeria
The governor, who has been at the center of a heated political crisis in the state, arrived back in the country on Thursday.
His return comes amid ongoing tensions between opposing political factions in Rivers State and speculations about the next phase of his political future.
Reports indicate that in the early days of his trip abroad, Governor Fubara met with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the United Kingdom, shortly before the president returned to Nigeria.
While details of their meeting remain undisclosed, it is believed to have centered around efforts to resolve the prolonged political standoff in Rivers State.
Additionally, several sources have disclosed that Governor Fubara, during his stay in Abuja before traveling out, privately visited the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, at his residence.
The meeting, reportedly brokered by Governors Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State and Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State, saw Fubara tender an apology to his predecessor and estranged political ally in a bid to ease tensions between both camps.
A Lagos High Court has sentenced Andrew Nice Ominikoron, a Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) driver, to death by hanging for the gruesome murder of 22-year-old fashion designer, Bamise Ayanwola, News360 Nigeria reports.
Justice Sherifat Sonaike delivered the judgment on Friday, May 2, 2025, at the Tafawa Balewa Square division of the court, bringing a dramatic end to a case that sparked national outrage.
Bamise was declared missing in February 2022 after boarding a BRT bus operated by Ominikoron. Days later, her lifeless body was discovered, prompting public protests and renewed calls for improved safety measures on Nigeria’s public transportation systems.
Throughout the trial, the prosecution presented compelling evidence linking the driver to the heinous crime, while the court affirmed that the act was premeditated and deserving of the maximum penalty.
The case gripped the country for years, and generated attention from human rights advocates, transport unions, and the general public.
It became a tragic symbol of the vulnerabilities women face when commuting alone.
Popular Nigerian social media personality and influencer, Martins Vincent Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan, has been arrested by the Nigerian police in Abuja on the orders of Guaranty Trust Bank (GTBank), following his public complaints about alleged unauthorised debits from his mother's bank account, News360 Nigeria
Confirming the arrest on Friday, Barrister Deji Adeyanju, legal counsel for VeryDarkMan, said officers of the Nigeria Police Force apprehended his client at Area 3, Abuja.
The arrest was reportedly initiated by GTBank after VeryDarkMan made complaints about repeated debits from his mother’s account in the name of loan repayments.
Adeyanju said, “My client, VeryDarkMan, was arrested today in Abuja by the Nigerian police. His only offence was speaking out about suspicious and repeated debits from his mother’s GTBank account for loans she never took.”
Earlier, VeryDarkMan took to his social media platforms to express his concerns about multiple deductions from his mother’s account.
In a post that has since gone viral, he revealed that they visited a GTBank branch in Abuja to demand an explanation and obtain a copy of her bank statement.
“Myself and my mom just arrived at GTBank to get an explanation for the constant debit from her account by GTBank in the name of loan repayments that she never took. In this year alone, see the amount of times she has been debited with different amounts,” he wrote.
“We have requested her bank statements so we know when the debiting started. So far, in this year alone, there have been more than seven debits on loan repayments. GTBank staff are cooperating—hopefully, we’ll know why they keep doing this.”
In a related incident reported by SaharaReporters on April 14, 2025, Ariyo Ahmed Adewale accused Guaranty Trust Bank (GTBank) of orchestrating his arrest after he staged a protest inside one of its Lagos branches over the alleged disappearance of funds from his account.
Ariyo said he had gone to the GTBank branch in the Kosofe area of Lagos to demand answers after discovering unauthorised transactions exceeding ₦2 million had been carried out on his account. He claimed the transactions were linked to the online shopping platform Jumia — a service he maintains he has never used.
"On Saturday, the 7th of last week, I discovered that N2,000,000 had been debited from my GTBank account without my authorisation," Ariyo said.
"As soon as I noticed the transaction, I immediately called GTBank customer care to report the incident and request that my account be blocked. Unfortunately, before they could act, the unauthorised transactions had already increased."
According to him, the bank claimed the transactions were made using his debit card on Jumia, but Ariyo disputed this.
"I have never used Jumia in my life. I didn’t authorise any purchases or payments, and my card was with me the entire time. My phone was also with me—nobody else had access to it,” he said.
To clarify things, he visited the GTBank branch in Kosofe to request a detailed account statement.
There was tension in Port Harcourt on Monday as a group of Rivers women staged a dramatic walkout on Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, during a women empowerment programme at the EUI Centre, News360 Nigeria reports.
The event, which was billed to feature the presentation of empowerment items to 500 women in the state, turned chaotic when the wife of the Sole Administrator, Mrs. Theresa Ibas, was invited to speak on behalf of the First Lady.
According to an eyewitness, the moment her name was announced, the atmosphere shifted.
The incident created a scene at the venue, drawing attention from security personnel and officials present.
The action is believed to be connected to the ongoing political tension in the state.
The women, many dressed in uniform attire, marched out of the hall, continuing their chants in defiance.
The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) Ltd has terminated the services of several senior staff members as part of a significant restructuring exercise, News360 Nigeria reports.
Sources close to the matter told ait live that the affected staff include Bala Wunti, former chief of National Petroleum Investment Management Services (NAPIMS), Ibrahim Onoja, managing director of the Kaduna Refinery, and Lawal Sade, chief compliance officer and former managing director of NNPC Trading.
The terminations which took effect immediately, are believed to be linked to the staff members’ close association with Mele Kyari, the former Group Chief Executive Officer who was removed from office on April 2, 2025.
The restructuring, which has impacted over 200 employees, marks the beginning of what may be a series of staff changes.
However, the changes have also led to increased representation of women in senior leadership roles, with Maryam Idrisu appointed as managing director of NNPC Trading, overseeing all crude oil transactions, and Obioma Abangwu as chief liaison officer for board matters.
The new appointments are reported to have been well-received by staff, coming four weeks after Bayo Ojulari took over as the new Group CEO.
Ojulari notably appointed an eight-member senior management team just three days into his tenure.
A General Court Martial (GCM) sitting at the Headquarters, 82 Division, Nigerian Army, Enugu, has sentenced a soldier, Private Adamu Mohammed, to death by hanging and another, Private Abubakar Yusuf, to 10 years imprisonment, News360 Nigeria reports.
A statement by Lt Col Jonah Unuakhalu, Acting Deputy Director 82 Division Army Public Relations, said, “The sentences were handed down after due consideration for the offences of murder and robbery for which the soldiers stood trial.”
The GCM, composed of 11 members, was inaugurated by the General Officer Commanding, 82 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Oluyemi Olatoye, on February 18, 2025, to try erring personnel within the Division for various offences that could not be disposed of summarily.
The President of the GCM, Brigadier General Sadisu Buhari, while delivering the judgement on the first accused, Private Adamu Mohammed, stated that he was found guilty of the offence of the murder of his girlfriend, Miss Hauwa Ali, an offence punishable under Section 106(a) of the Armed Forces Act, Cap A20 LFN 2004.
The unanimous judgement he explained was arrived at after careful review of the facts before the GCM, the career and service record of the soldier, and the compassionate plea for mitigation presented by the accused and his counsel.
However, the President of the GCM noted that in the interest of societal decorum and justice for the deceased, the law had to be applied to its fullest.
“Given this, the GCM has determined that the accused soldier, 21NA/80/6365 Private Adamu Mohammed, is hereby sentenced to death by hanging for the charge of murder,” Brigadier General Sadisu said.
Relatedly, the General Court Martial equally sentenced another soldier, Private Abubakar Yusuf, to 10 years’ imprisonment for robbery at a mall within Enugu.
The President of the GCM stated that the panel found Private Yusuf guilty of robbery, punishable under Section 107(1)(b) of the Armed Forces Act, Cap A20 LFN 2004.
Although the court attentively considered the plea in mitigation presented by the accused and his counsel for leniency, the law was applied to uphold societal decorum and protect the reputation of the army.
“However, due to the inability of the GCM to reach a unanimous decision required to impose the maximum mandatory punishment prescribed under Section 107(2) of the Armed Forces Act, Cap A20 LFN 2004, the GCM, relying on the provisions of Section 140(3) of the Armed Forces Act, hereby sentences the accused soldier, 23NA/85/12116 Private Abubakar Yusuf, to 10 years imprisonment,” Brigadier General Sadisu Buhari announced.
The President of the GCM emphasised that the findings and sentences pronounced for both soldiers remain subject to confirmation by the confirming authority, marking the conclusion of their trials.
The Nigerian Army reassures the general public of its unwavering commitment to upholding the highest standards of ethics and professional conduct in the discharge of its duties.
While the wrong actions of a few do not reflect the values of the institution, swift and decisive measures are always taken to ensure accountability and justice.
The Army remains dedicated to maintaining discipline within its ranks, protecting the integrity of its operations and fostering trust and confidence among the people it serves.
Barely 24 hours after Boko Haram terrorists killed two members of the Civilian Joint Task Force and 10 firewood scavengers in Gwoza local government area of Borno state, no fewer than eight persons were killed, and three others sustained various degrees of injury from an improvised explosive device (IED) planted by suspected Boko Haram terrorists in Gamboru Ngala local government area, News360 Nigeria reports.
According to reports, the explosion happened at about 11:00 am when some vehicles travelling from Rann, headquarters of Kala-Balge, to Gamboru Ngala stumbled on the IEDs.
Sources revealed that the exact location was near Furunduma, 11 kilometres from Rann.
“The victims include women and children. But some said, over 20 people were killed, with several others injured,” a source said.
Both Gamboru Ngala and Kala Balge share a border with Cameroon, which has witnessed a series of deadly attacks in the past.
All efforts to get confirmation from the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Kenneth Daso, was unsuccessful at press time.
Union Bank of Nigeria Plc led by Yetunde Oni, is currently grappling with a massive N9.3 billion fraud following a significant operational system breach, News360 Nigeria reports.
The development comes exactly one year and three months after the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) sacked the bank’s board and entire management, citing governance failures.
A new management team was subsequently appointed to lead the financial institution.
Union Bank is battling to recover the sum of N9,329,322,870.00 (nine billion, three hundred and twenty-nine million, three hundred and twenty-two thousand, eight hundred and seventy naira), withdrawn from customers’ accounts without authorization.
In a suit marked FHC/L/CS/629/2025, filed before the Federal High Court in Lagos, Union Bank sought a preservative order compelling the financial institutions involved to place Post No Debit restrictions on the accounts of all beneficiaries and to return the stolen funds traced to their institutions.
According to the bank, the fraud followed an operational failure and fraud in its core banking system on March 23, 2025, which led to unauthorized transfers from customers’ accounts.
An affidavit deposed to by Oluwasegun Falola, head of the E-Fraud Investigations Department at Union Bank, stated that the funds were fraudulently and erroneously transferred from the bank to various accounts across 53 financial institutions.
Falola explained that on March 23, 2025, the bank observed that N9.3 billion had been debited from customer accounts and dispersed into various accounts maintained by the respondent banks. He added that Union Bank immediately contacted the banks involved in a bid to halt further dissipation of the funds.
“The Fraud Desk Department of the bank, in the course of its investigations, discovered that the monies were transferred in trickles into several accounts domiciled with the 1st to 54th Respondents,” the affidavit stated.
Union Bank attributed the unauthorized debits to a system glitch and exploitation, which it says enabled the illicit transfers.
“The funds were erroneously and fraudulently transferred from customers’ accounts.
“Upon further investigation, it was found that the funds were subsequently moved from these primary beneficiary accounts to other accounts also held by the respondents.”
The bank disclosed that it had submitted the list of recipient accounts to the respective financial institutions as a preliminary measure to recover any remaining funds.
To support its recovery efforts, the bank said its internal audit and legal departments compiled detailed reports tracing the flow of funds and identifying all beneficiary accounts.
When the case was mentioned on April 2, 2025, Union Bank’s counsel, A. Adedoyin-Adeniyi, informed the court that the stolen funds were still being moved.
“₦9.3 billion has been moved from the account, and they are still moving funds. We now have more people involved in moving the funds,” the lawyer told the court.
In his ruling, Justice Deinde Dipeolu agreed with the submissions and thereafter granted a motion ex parte filed by the bank concerning the unauthorized fund transfers.
“Having reviewed the motion ex parte, the application is hereby granted,” the judge ruled.
The incident has raised broader concerns about the security of Nigeria’s banking infrastructure, especially as interbank transactions continue to increase.
Financial analysts suggest that outdated systems and inadequate oversight may be exacerbating vulnerabilities, heightening the risk of fraud and transactional errors.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio and other members of the Nigerian delegation have arrived in Vatican City ahead of the funeral of Pope Francis, scheduled for Saturday, News360 Nigeria reports.
Akpabio is leading a high-level five-member delegation sent by President Bola Tinubu to represent Nigeria at the funeral rites of the late head of the Roman Catholic Church.
Related News Other members of the delegation include the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu Ojukwu; President of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria, Archbishop Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji; Archbishop of Sokoto Diocese, Matthew Hassan Kukah; and Archbishop of Abuja Diocese, Ignatius Ayua Kaigama.
“As the Leader of Nigeria’s delegation to the burial ceremony of Pope Francis, I paid tribute to our departed Pope, on behalf of President Bola Tinubu and the Nigerian People at the Lying-in-State of Pope Francis, inside St Peter’s Basilica, Vatican City,” Akpabio wrote in a post on Facebook on Friday.
Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, is heading a high-level Nigerian delegation to attend the funeral of Pope Francis, the head of the Roman Catholic Church, in Vatican City on Saturday, News360 Nigeria reports.
This was disclosed in a statement signed by the Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, on Friday.
Tinubu sent the five-member delegation, which also includes the Minister of State, Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu Ojukwu; President of the Catholic Bishops Conference of Nigeria, Archbishop Lucius Iwejuru Ugorji; Archbishop of Sokoto Diocese, Archbishop Matthew Hassan Kukah; and Archbishop of Abuja Diocese, Archbishop Ignatius Ayua Kaigama.
The statement added, “The delegation will formally deliver a letter conveying President Tinubu’s sympathy and condolences on Pope Francis’ passing to the Acting Head of the Vatican.
Abubakar Bukola Saraki, the former senate president and chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has said there is no cause for alarm over the mass defection of top Delta State party leaders to the All Progressives Congress (APC), describing the development as an opportunity for rebirth and repositioning, News360 Nigeria reports.
In a statement issued on Thursday in response to the dramatic defection of Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, his predecessor Ifeanyi Okowa, and the entire state PDP structure to the ruling party, Saraki urged calm among party members and called for renewed commitment to rebuilding the PDP.
“My view is that those who want to leave the PDP should leave now and let the rest of us who want to stay concentrate on rebuilding the party and refocusing it to play the role of a viable opposition that will provide a better alternative for the good people of Nigeria,” he said.
The former governor of Kwara expressed confidence that the PDP would emerge stronger. He emphasised the importance of a credible opposition in a democratic society like Nigeria.
“To sustain democracy, there must be viable choices for people at every point,” he said. “A one-party state as being disingenuously designed by some people will not augur well for a multi-ethnic, multi-lingual, multi-cultural, multi-religious, and highly diversified society like ours.”
Reacting to the defection of Okowa, the PDP’s 2023 vice-presidential candidate, Saraki described it as “unprecedented” and a “sign of how low we have sunk as a polity.” He dismissed excuses of pressure or compulsion as insufficient justification for such a political shift.
Related News “Yes, it is unbecoming and shocking for the running mate to the standard bearer of a leading party to abandon ship to join the ruling party… It is simply a sign of how low we have sunk as a polity. The country is experiencing a collapse of leadership values.”
Saraki also criticised the internal sincerity of some opposition figures. “This development has vindicated the stance of people like me who have decided to remain silent and watch events unfold. I have seen that there was no sincerity with supposed leaders of the opposition. One was not sure of the next person one was talking to.”
He urged party members not to be discouraged but to see the development as a wake-up call. “It is not necessary at this point to lament why they left,” he noted. “We should stay strong and focus on strengthening the party.”
He added that the PDP should not waste time blaming the APC for its troubles. “That would be a lazy approach. They are playing politics to win elections. It is our responsibility as party members to ignore their antics and seize the moment and momentum to make our party stronger and better.”
Looking ahead to the 2027 elections, Saraki expressed optimism that the PDP, even with a reduced number of governors, remains capable of victory.
“Even if the party has only ten governors in its fold, the PDP is still in a good position to win the next round of elections.
“Our party members should not lose focus, hope, or the determination to win. We should see the current development as a challenge to rebuild and refocus the party. Tomorrow is very bright,” he said.
Politics › Tinubu Appoints Thompson Oludare Sunday As NDIC Managing Director by Infoguy666(op): 1:55pm On May 28, 2025
