Security Tightened in Abuja, Niger Over Alleged Insurgent Plot
Security agencies have reinforced protection around key facilities in Abuja and neighbouring Niger State following reports of a suspected insurgent plot targeting airports and correctional centres. The Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Immigration Service, and Nigeria Correctional Service said on Thursday that proactive measures had been taken to secure the locations. Authorities noted the move was part of efforts to prevent potential attacks and safeguard critical infrastructure.
ISWAP Claims Responsibility for Attacks on Nigerian Forces
The Islamic State West Africa Province has claimed responsibility for a series of attacks on Nigerian security forces and neighbouring countries. The claim, contained in material written in Arabic and translated into English, was released on Thursday. A copy of the statement was sighted by a correspondent on X, formerly known as Twitter, indicating continued insurgent activity in the region.
Immigration Service Arrests 125 Foreign Nationals in Lagos
The Nigeria Immigration Service, Lagos State Command, has arrested 125 foreign nationals over alleged immigration offences, with 82 slated for repatriation. Assistant Comptroller-General in charge of Zone A, Mohamed Adamu, said the operation was conducted with the Nigeria Police Force on March 30 across parts of the state. Authorities said the arrests were part of ongoing efforts to enforce immigration laws.
Police Arrest Six Over Alleged Bomb Plot in Ondo
The Ondo State Police Command has arrested six persons over an alleged plan to bomb government facilities in Akure. Commissioner of Police Adebowale Lawal disclosed this on Thursday, adding that 10 other suspected criminals were apprehended across the state, bringing total arrests to 16. He said investigations were ongoing to uncover the full extent of the plot.
Wike Slams Atiku, Dismisses Criticism of Tinubu Administration
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, on Thursday criticised former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, describing him as a serial failure. Speaking during an inspection of projects in Kuje and other parts of the FCT, Wike rejected Atiku’s comments that the administration of President Bola Tinubu had failed to ease hardship, insisting ongoing projects reflect progress.
Tinubu Says He Is Not Afraid of 2027 Political Opponents
President Bola Tinubu has said he is not intimidated by those planning to challenge his leadership in 2027. He made the statement during a meeting with the Renewed Hope Ambassadors led by Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma at the Presidential Villa on Thursday. Tinubu reaffirmed confidence in his administration’s direction and political future.
Court Issues Arrest Warrant for Former Minister Sadiya Farouq
A Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja has issued a warrant of arrest against former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Sadiya Umar Farouq. The court also ordered the arrest of former Permanent Secretary Bashir Nura Alkali for failing to appear for arraignment. The directive was issued on Thursday as part of ongoing legal proceedings.
Nasarawa Governor Endorses Wadada as Preferred Successor
Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State has named Senator Ahmed Aliyu Wadada as his preferred successor. He described Wadada as embodying the “Muje Maha” spirit central to his administration’s governance style. The endorsement signals early political positioning ahead of the state’s next gubernatorial transition.
Gunmen Abduct 14 Passengers, Including JAMB Candidates, in Benue
Armed men have reportedly abducted at least 14 passengers along the Makurdi-Otukpo road in Benue State. Many of the victims were believed to be JAMB candidates travelling for examinations when the attack occurred on Wednesday evening. Authorities confirmed that security operatives have launched efforts to rescue the abducted individuals.
JAMB Denies Hijab Discrimination at Ibadan CBT Centre
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board has denied reports of hijab discrimination at Esther Oshikoya CBT Centre in Ibadan. In a statement issued on Thursday by its Public Communication Adviser, Fabian Benjamin, the board said the incident was not part of its official examination protocol and reaffirmed its commitment to inclusivity.
Tinubu Declares Readiness for 2027 Re-Election Bid
President Bola Tinubu has declared his intention to contest the 2027 election for a second term. Speaking at the Presidential Villa during a meeting with Renewed Hope Ambassadors, he said he was ready to “break the shackles of ignorance and poverty” and strengthen democracy. He also criticised opposition parties, urging adherence to democratic principles and respect for the judiciary.
Labour Party Faction Claims Support for Tinubu’s 2027 Bid
Factional Labour Party South-West National Vice Chairman, Abayomi Arabambi, has said the party would support President Bola Tinubu’s re-election in 2027. Speaking on News Central, he claimed that party figures including Julius Abure and Abia State Governor Alex Otti had agreed in principle to back Tinubu, citing regional power rotation considerations.
Makinde Downplays Alleged Impeachment Plot in Oyo
Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has dismissed reports of an alleged impeachment plot against him. Speaking during a state event on Thursday, he downplayed the claims, noting his administration had about a year left in office. “So what will happen next? Well, that is if I am not impeached then,” he said.
Adeleke Blames Withheld Funds for Project Delays in Osun
Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has blamed withheld ₦300 billion local government funds for delays in executing projects. He alleged that the funds were hijacked by the All Progressives Congress, forcing his administration to use state resources to pay local government workers, teachers, and pensioners for over a year.
Okonkwo Warns Peter Obi Against Leaving ADC Coalition
ADC chieftain Kenneth Okonkwo has said former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi would be seen as working for President Tinubu if he leaves the coalition over a presidential ticket dispute. Speaking on Channels Television, Okonkwo warned that any aspirant exiting the coalition would be viewed as compromised.
Fresh Details Emerge on Kidnap of JAMB Candidates in Benue
Fourteen passengers, mostly JAMB candidates, were abducted by gunmen along the Makurdi-Otukpo highway on Wednesday evening. The victims were travelling for scheduled examinations when their vehicle was ambushed. Officials confirmed that only the driver and one passenger escaped, while security agencies have commenced rescue operations.
Singer Omawumi Says Love Has Always Been Transactional
Nigerian singer Omawumi has said romantic relationships have always involved transactional elements. In an interview with Pulse, she argued that expectations in relationships have increased due to modernisation and inflation, adding that society often overlooks women’s reciprocation in such dynamics.
Court Approves Fresh Legal Action Over Mohbad’s Death
A Federal High Court in Abuja has approved a fresh legal action seeking to compel police to reopen investigations into the death of singer Ilerioluwa Aloba, known as Mohbad. Justice James Omotosho granted the application filed by Break the Silence Foundation, allowing the group to pursue a thorough probe into the circumstances surrounding the 2023 death.
Sporting Lagos Secures NPFL Promotion After Key Victory
Sporting Lagos has gained promotion to the Nigeria Premier Football League following a 1-0 win over Osun United. The decisive goal came in the 17th minute through Alex Leme, sealing the club’s return to the top flight after two seasons in the Nigerian National League.
Bernardo Silva Confirms Manchester City Exit
Bernardo Silva has announced he will leave Manchester City at the end of the season after nine years with the club. In a farewell message to fans, the Portuguese midfielder reflected on multiple achievements, including league titles and a treble, describing his time at the club as a defining chapter of his career.
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