Kidnappers Demand ₦150m for Eight Abducted Worshippers in Kwara
Residents of Omugo community in Oro Ago District, Ifelodun LGA of Kwara State, have raised alarm over the continued captivity of eight abducted worshippers, with kidnappers demanding ₦150 million ransom. The community called for urgent government and security intervention. They expressed deep concern over the victims’ worsening plight, urging authorities to intensify rescue efforts and address rising insecurity in the area.
Bandit Attacks Displace Residents of 21 Villages in Sokoto
Residents of at least 21 villages in Sokoto State have fled their homes following repeated threats and attacks by bandits. Many displaced persons are now sheltering in Tureta town and nearby areas.
The victims face harsh conditions, including overcrowding, hunger, and lack of basic support, prompting calls for urgent humanitarian assistance and improved security measures.
U.S. Embassy Cancels Visa Appointments in Abuja
The United States Embassy in Abuja has cancelled all visa appointments, directing applicants to check emails for rescheduled dates. The announcement was made on Thursday without stating reasons.
The mission, however, confirmed that visa operations remain ongoing at the U.S. Consulate General in Lagos.
Troops Killed in Insurgent Attack on Borno Military Base
Nigeria’s Defence Headquarters confirmed that military personnel were killed after insurgents attacked the 29 Task Force Brigade in Benisheikh, Kaga LGA of Borno State. According to Michael Onoja, the coordinated assault occurred on April 9, 2026, highlighting ongoing security challenges in the region.
ADC Sues INEC Over Leadership Removal
The African Democratic Congress has filed a suit against the Independent National Electoral Commission, seeking restoration of David Mark and Rauf Aregbesola as National Chairman and Secretary. The case follows the removal of their names and other NWC members from INEC’s portal on April 1.
Obasanjo Urges Nigerians to Unite for Progress
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has called for national unity, warning that progress will remain elusive without collective responsibility. He spoke at the 65th birthday colloquium of Itua Ighodalo, stressing the need to confront Nigeria’s challenges together.
CBN Debunks Viral ₦5,000 Note Claim
The Central Bank of Nigeria has dismissed as false a viral image claiming a newly introduced ₦5,000 note featuring Bola Tinubu. The bank urged the public to disregard the image, stating, “This content is fake. Let the public be guided.”
ADC Crisis Deepens as Bala Leads Protest to INEC
ADC chieftain Nafiu Bala led supporters to INEC headquarters in Abuja, intensifying the party’s leadership crisis. Bala, who claims the national chairmanship, is in a legal dispute with a rival faction led by David Mark.
TUC Warns Fuel Price May Hit ₦2,000 per Litre
The Trade Union Congress of Nigeria has warned that petrol prices could rise to ₦2,000 per litre amid global crude price increases and naira depreciation.
The union urged the government to subsidise crude supply to the Dangote Refinery using excess oil revenue.
Marafa Defects to ADC Amid APC Dispute
Former Zamfara Central senator Kabiru Marafa has defected from the APC to the ADC, citing “political manipulation.” His move comes amid internal ADC disputes following INEC’s derecognition of some factional leaders after a court ruling.
Nigeria Rejects U.S. Travel Advisory as ‘Unbalanced’
The Federal Government has criticised a U.S. travel advisory warning against visiting Nigeria, describing it as unbalanced.
A spokesman for Information Minister Mohammed Idris said the report does not reflect security progress and urged continued engagement with Nigerian authorities.
ISWAP Attack Claims Life of Brigadier-General Braimoh
Brig.-Gen. O.O. Braimoh was killed during an insurgent attack on a Borno military base after his armoured vehicle reportedly failed to start. Sources said the attack, linked to ISWAP, left several soldiers dead, injured, or missing during the assault.
Defence Minister Orders Intelligence Coordination
Defence Minister Christopher Musa has called for integrated intelligence sharing among security agencies. He said silo operations weaken effectiveness, adding that President Bola Tinubu has directed improved collaboration.
Bauchi Political Realignment Sparks Defection Speculation
Bauchi Governor Bala Mohammed met APC lawmakers amid speculation he may defect from the PDP. Lawmakers said discussions focused on ongoing political realignments, with outcomes to be announced soon.
DJAN Denies Ban on Burna Boy’s Music
The Deejays Association of Nigeria has denied banning Burna Boy’s songs.
The group described reports as false and clarified that DJ Tunez is not a registered member.
KWAM 1’s Wife Denies Claims About Her Children
Emmanuella Ropo, wife of Wasiu Ayinde, has denied reports claiming she has children with multiple men. She said she has three children from one father and warned of legal action against those spreading false claims.
Cape Verde Withdraws from Super Falcons Friendlies
Cape Verde has pulled out of scheduled friendlies against Nigeria’s Super Falcons, disrupting preparations for upcoming tournaments. Captain Rasheedat Ajibade criticised the Nigeria Football Federation over poor planning and lack of communication.
Maguire Targets Final World Cup Appearance
Harry Maguire says he remains among the world’s top defenders as he eyes a final World Cup with England. The Manchester United player cited strong performances and expressed confidence in his continued impact at the highest level.