Arsenal Football Club has officially submitted a £9.3 million transfer bid to acquire Brentford’s defensive midfielder, Christian Norgaard, according to reports from the UK Mirror. The North London club is actively seeking to reinforce its midfield unit ahead of the 2025/2026 campaign, and Norgaard has emerged as a financially viable target with Premier League experience and leadership qualities. With the summer transfer window now open, Arsenal is pressing ahead with strategic additions to reshape their squad. The club sees Norgaard as a low-cost yet dependable option to support its evolving midfield structure. Known for his composure, ball-winning ability, and tactical awareness, Norgaard fits the profile of a player who could thrive under Mikel Arteta’s system. Jorginho Leaves on Free Transfer, Partey’s Exit Looms In terms of departures, Arsenal have already seen Jorginho complete a move to Flamengo following the expiration of his contract. The Italian midfielder exited on a free transfer, concluding his spell with the club after contributing both experience and stability. Meanwhile, Thomas Partey’s future remains in serious doubt. The Ghanaian international’s current contract is set to expire next week, and all indications point toward an imminent departure. Partey is expected to leave the club as a free agent, bringing an end to his tenure in North London. Zubimendi Deal Nearly Done — But Arsenal Still Exploring Market Options In a separate development, Arsenal is also on the brink of finalizing the transfer of Martin Zubimendi from LaLiga side Real Sociedad. The Gunners have reportedly agreed on personal terms with the Spanish international, and the deal is scheduled to be officially announced in the coming week. Despite Zubimendi’s imminent arrival, the club’s scouting department continues to monitor other potential midfield acquisitions. The interest in Christian Norgaard signifies that Arsenal is keen on ensuring depth and competition in all areas of the pitch, particularly in light of key departures. The club’s proactive approach highlights a strategic shift towards securing affordable, experienced talent to maintain competitiveness across domestic and European competitions in the upcoming season.
Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has made a passionate appeal to media professionals across Nigeria—particularly those operating within Abia State—not to spread misleading reports or fabricated stories that could incite fear or disrupt societal peace. The Governor’s message was conveyed during his address at the 2025 Media Vision Africa training event held in Umuahia, the capital city of Abia State. Representing Governor Otti at the program was the State Commissioner for Information, Mr. Okey Kanu, who emphasized the crucial responsibility that media professionals bear in ensuring accurate and truthful reporting. According to the Governor, journalists must shift focus toward publishing reports that foster public trust and promote a sense of security, rather than narratives that incite anxiety and alarm. He cautioned against the habitual use of fear-mongering tactics or propaganda in news dissemination, stressing that such practices only damage the credibility of the press and mislead the public. While reiterating the Otti-led administration’s commitment to maintaining a strong working relationship with the media sector to advance development within both Abia State and Nigeria at large, the Governor urged the trainees and upcoming journalists at the event to always anchor their stories on verifiable facts and truth. Governor Otti was clear in his directive: media practitioners must avoid manipulating facts or distorting the truth for the sake of sensationalism. He advised that comprehensive journalism should present a balanced picture—highlighting not only the challenges facing the state but also showcasing the positive strides being made. “In today’s Abia, where the government is focused on improving security and reviving the economy, it is vital that we promote narratives that reinforce public confidence rather than fear,” he stated. “I urge all media practitioners in Abia and across the nation to uphold the image of the profession with integrity and avoid being purveyors of fake news.” In a related development, Bishop Sunday Ndukwo Onuoha, the President of Vision Africa and a leading Methodist Bishop, also addressed the gathering. He highlighted the objective of the training event as part of a broader initiative aimed at equipping Nigeria’s young media professionals with the tools needed for future leadership roles in journalism. Bishop Onuoha encouraged the Nigerian youth to abandon the outdated mindset of depending solely on government appointments or political favor for career advancement. Instead, he called on them to become innovative content creators, job providers, and transformational leaders who can help redefine the culture and tone of public communication in the country.
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In a heartfelt effort to support the families left behind by its fallen heroes, the Borno State Police Command has officially released a total of ₦13,428,659.95 to the relatives of ten late police officers who died while serving the nation. This significant financial assistance was handed over in the form of cheques by the Commissioner of Police in Borno State, CP Naziru Abdulmajid, during a solemn and emotional ceremony held on Monday at the Command Headquarters in Maiduguri. According to an official press release by the command’s Public Relations Officer, ASP Nahum Kenneth Daso, the disbursement was executed on behalf of the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun. The gesture was carried out under the Group Life Assurance program in collaboration with the IGP Family Welfare Scheme. Initiative Aimed at Supporting Bereaved Families Speaking during the event, CP Abdulmajid stated that the core purpose of the initiative is to ease the financial hardship and emotional distress experienced by the families of officers who lost their lives in the line of duty. He reaffirmed that the ultimate sacrifice made by the deceased officers will never be forgotten, highlighting the Inspector-General’s unwavering commitment to the well-being of both serving and fallen personnel. In a compassionate message to the grieving families, the CP encouraged them to manage the funds wisely, emphasizing the importance of investing in meaningful ventures that will guarantee the future and welfare of the deceased officers’ children and dependents. Beneficiaries Appreciate the Support During the ceremony, Mr. Jerry Joel, who spoke on behalf of all the beneficiaries, expressed deep gratitude to the Nigeria Police Force and the Inspector-General of Police. He acknowledged the timely support offered during what he described as an incredibly difficult period for all the affected families. Joel also praised the foresight and concern shown by the leadership of the police force, describing the initiative as a lifeline that reflects genuine compassion and responsibility toward those left behind.
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The announcement by Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde, regarding a proposed ₦63.5 billion renovation of the Agodi Government House has sparked mixed reactions across political, civic, and public sectors. Historically referred to as Oke Ebo, the Agodi Government House in Ibadan was established during Nigeria’s colonial era and has functioned as the official residence of successive governors — both military and civilian — overseeing the Western Region, old Western State, former Oyo State, and now the present-day Oyo State. Over the years, the edifice has seen periodic renovations by previous administrations. However, the scale and financial implications of the current renovation plan have stirred controversy among stakeholders and citizens alike. Governor Makinde recently disclosed his intentions at a public event in Ibadan, where he also delivered the State of the State address at the Oyo State House of Assembly, Secretariat, Agodi. According to the governor, Oyo State is rapidly becoming a hub for investment, owing to simplified governance models and effective policy execution. Responding to the uproar over the substantial budgeted cost, Governor Makinde justified the high expenditure by attributing it to Nigeria’s unstable exchange rate and the inclusion of a broader scope of infrastructural upgrades — including building reconstruction, road repairs, and chalet enhancements. “Yesterday, social media went agog with criticism over the ₦63 billion Government House renovation. But before jumping to conclusions, let’s consider some facts,” the governor asserted. He elaborated by recalling that the previous government had secured a $200 million World Bank loan for the Ibadan Urban Flood Management Project (IUFMP). When his administration took office in May 2019, the loan stood at approximately ₦70 billion due to the then exchange rate of ₦350 to $1. Monthly repayments hovered around ₦700 million. Out of the $200 million, $100 million had already been disbursed, while $50 million was committed. Makinde’s government honored those commitments but managed the funds prudently, even returning $18 million to the World Bank — funds that were not utilized. The governor used this to underscore how exchange rate volatility had impacted the debt portfolio of the state. The same $200 million loan now equates to a whopping ₦320 billion due to the exchange rate shift to ₦1,540 per dollar. As a result, monthly loan servicing has ballooned to ₦3 billion. While highlighting the achievements of the IUFMP, including a working advanced warning system for floods, Makinde concluded that managing currency devaluation is beyond state-level governance. “We will continue to act in the best interest of our state,” he affirmed. Opposition and Civic Stakeholders Reject Makinde’s Renovation Budget Despite Governor Makinde’s explanations, several political and civic groups have voiced strong opposition, accusing the administration of misplaced priorities, fiscal irresponsibility, and possible corruption. APC Tells Makinde to Withdraw N63.5B Renovation Plan The Oyo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) strongly condemned the proposed renovation. Publicity Secretary Wasiu Olawale Sadare, in a statement provided to LMSINT MEDIA, urged the governor to immediately reverse the decision. Sadare labeled the move as a blatant display of extravagance and poor judgment, warning that it could further destabilize the state’s economy. He criticized the governor for prioritizing vanity projects, referencing an earlier controversial contract — the alleged purchase of exercise books for public school pupils at ₦2,100 per copy in 2019. He accused Makinde of recycling similar tactics, noting that the government house had already undergone major renovations under former Governor Abiola Ajimobi in 2017. Sadare dismissed Makinde’s budget defense as an “attempt to mask a clear case of misappropriation.” He also spotlighted issues surrounding the Alakia Airport upgrade, alleging contract splitting. According to him, Makinde released additional ₦10 billion and now ₦14.3 billion for a project initially budgeted at ₦14.3 billion — long after full payment was supposedly made. The APC chieftain further criticized the acquisition of aircraft for supposed security operations, asserting that the planes were unnecessary and would only benefit the political elite. “What Oyo needs is stronger synergy between stakeholders and proper funding of security forces, not luxurious aircrafts,” Sadare concluded. SPN Labels Renovation a “Misplaced Priority” The Socialist Party of Nigeria (SPN), Oyo State Chapter, also denounced the renovation plan, calling it a gross misallocation of scarce public resources. Secretary Ayodeji Adigun said in a statement that Governor Makinde’s rationale was unconvincing and contradicted economic logic. The SPN accused the administration of exacerbating the state’s debt crisis. Citing data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), the party stated that the total debt prior to Makinde’s tenure was around ₦129 billion. This included ₦94 billion in domestic debt and ₦32 billion in external obligations. However, within just 15 months of taking office, the state’s debt reportedly surged by an additional ₦140 billion, totaling ₦266 billion — evidence, according to the SPN, of financial recklessness. “Blaming former governments while engaging in even more reckless spending is hypocritical,” the party said. The SPN stressed that resources should have been directed towards critical sectors like education, healthcare, and rural development instead of a non-essential luxury project. It also criticized the security aircraft procurement, arguing that public safety should be achieved through better-equipped police forces and modern surveillance systems — not private jets. Lawmakers, Citizens Must Demand Transparency – APC’s Alao Engineer Oyedele Hakeem Alao, a senior member of the APC, also condemned the spending proposal, urging the state legislature and citizens to demand full accountability from the governor. In a statement made available to LMSINT MEDIA, Alao asserted that the proposed expenditure was not included in the 2025 budget, and as such, represents unlawful spending. “Budget allocations for 2025 earmarked ₦152 billion for infrastructure, ₦145 billion for education, and ₦59 billion for healthcare — not for renovating the Government House,” he explained. Alao urged that any off-budget spending during this time of economic turmoil was both unjust and unethical, particularly when critical public services are underfunded. He called for immediate legislative scrutiny and a halt to vanity expenditures that fail to serve the needs of ordinary citizens.
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In a significant move impacting Nigeria’s fiscal planning, the Nigerian Senate has officially granted a second extension to the capital component of the 2024 national budget, moving the new deadline for its full implementation to December 31, 2025. This decision was reached during the Senate plenary session on Tuesday, after an amendment bill to the Appropriation Act was introduced and swiftly passed. The amendment aimed to adjust the timeline for utilizing the capital allocations approved in the 2024 fiscal budget. The announcement of the Senate’s resolution was made by Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin, following the adoption of a detailed report from the Senate Committee on Supply. Why the 2024 Capital Budget Was Extended Again The motion advocating for this extension was championed by Senator Solomon Adeola, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Appropriation and a representative of Ogun West under the All Progressives Congress (APC). According to Senator Adeola, this second extension is crucial to prevent the abandonment of critical national projects that are yet to be completed due to timing constraints. “We must not allow these important national projects to be abandoned due to time constraints. Extending the implementation period will ensure value for money and improved service delivery,”— Senator Solomon Adeola His remarks emphasized the need for continuity and accountability in national development, stressing that delays caused by rigid fiscal calendars could lead to wasted investments and stalled progress. This Marks the Second Official Extension for the 2024 Budget As reported by LMSINT MEDIA, this is the second official extension granted by the National Assembly for the 2024 capital expenditure budget. The first extension occurred in December 2024, when President Bola Ahmed Tinubu formally requested that the budget deadline be moved from December 31, 2024, to June 30, 2025. With this new development, Nigeria is now operating two concurrent capital budgets—one for 2024 and another for 2025. This overlap raises serious questions about potential funding challenges and budget execution efficiency, especially given the country’s tight revenue environment and external debt commitments. Calls for Transparency and Accountability in Contractor Payments During the proceedings, Senator Abdul Ahmed Ningi, who represents Bauchi Central Senatorial District, raised a crucial concern regarding the non-payment of contractors since the start of 2024. He called on the Senate to initiate an investigation to address why many government contractors have not received their due payments despite ongoing budget provisions. The senator’s call further underscores the necessity for strong financial oversight and budget transparency, especially as Nigeria navigates dual capital expenditures. Unpaid contractors can lead to abandoned projects and undermine public trust in government financial management. Implications of Running Two Concurrent Capital Budgets Running parallel capital budgets for two fiscal years presents both opportunities and challenges. On one hand, it allows for greater flexibility in completing ongoing projects, but on the other, it demands effective financial discipline and oversight to avoid duplication, waste, or mismanagement. Stakeholders in the public finance and economic sectors will be watching closely to see how the Federal Government handles disbursement, contractor accountability, and project timelines as 2025 unfolds. For more updates on Nigeria’s national budgeting, procurement, and fiscal management strategies, follow updates from the Federal Ministry of Finance and Budget Office of the Federation
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Pastor Chris Oyakhilome DSc DSc DD It was God [personally present] in Christ, reconciling and restoring the world to favor with Himself, not counting up and holding against [men] their trespasses [but cancelling them], and committing to us the message of reconciliation (of the restoration to favor) (2 Corinthians 5:19 AMPC). In Luke 19:10, the Lord Jesus said, “For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.” He accomplished this mission and returned to heaven, but He entrusted us with the same responsibility. Just as the Father sent Him, He also sent us: “…as my Father hath sent me, even so send I you” (John 20:21). Now, we’re the ones to seek and save the lost. This is our calling; we’re soul winners, reconciling men to God. In your city, think like this: “The son of man has come to seek and to save those who are lost.” Everywhere you go, you arrive with this purpose. Whether on a bus, in an airplane, or in a marketplace, you’re there to seek and save the lost—to bring salvation to someone who needs it. This is your mission. In 2 Corinthians 5:19, the Scripture says, “To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation.” This is powerful! God, the Chief Reconciler, was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself. But He continues this work through you. Today, God is in you, reconciling the world to Himself. And like Him, we don’t count people’s trespasses against them. We’re imitators of God; we copy Him as well-beloved children imitate their father (Ephesians 5:1-2). Furthermore, He has committed to us the word or message of reconciliation. Therefore, keep proclaiming the Good News of salvation, bringing men and women out of darkness into the glorious liberty of the children of God. Hallelujah! PRAYERDear Father, thank you for entrusting me with the ministry of reconciliation; I walk in this calling, seeking and saving the lost, just as the Lord Jesus did. I walk in love and refuse to count offences against others. I am your vessel, bringing your message of reconciliation to all I encounter, in Jesus’ Name. Amen. FURTHER STUDYJohn 3:16For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. 2 Corinthians 5:18-19And all things [are] of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; 19 To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. DAILY SCRIPTURE READING1-Year Bible Reading PlanActs 11:19-30 & Nehemiah 1-3 2-Year Bible Reading PlanLuke 4:1-13 & Deuteronomy 23 Extract From Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional DAILY AFFIRMATIONS: The love of God is shed abroad in my heart and I am manifesting this love, reaching out to my world with love. I refuse to allow anger, bitterness, and hatred to take root in my heart. My life is the expression of the Father’s will; as I seek to do only those things that are honourable and pleasing to Him, my increase, progress, and prosperity are evident for all to see. I am in the centre of God’s will for my life and I am equipped with all things that pertain to life and godliness. I am filled with the fullness of God! The lines are fallen unto me in pleasant places; yes, I have a goodly heritage. I do not struggle nor respond in fear because God had not given unto me the spirit of fear. I am a citizen of heaven, living by heavenly principles. I live in the Christ environment where life is totally different; everything is glorious. I have absolute mastery over circumstances and over the elements of this world. There’s no failure, weakness, defeat, sickness, disease, poverty, or any of the negativities of life in me. I belong in God’s superior class of divine beings. I am a king, and my words are full of power and authority; therefore, I live a life of victory, success, divine health, abundance, excellence, and glory. I am not a victim in this life. I am born and called to be a victor. I enjoy extraordinary strength by the Holy Ghost and divine enablement in my inner man. I’m eternally victorious in Christ. I have power over crises; I’m prospering exceedingly, manifesting the righteousness and dominion of Christ everywhere. I live above, and far beyond the distracting elements of this world, because I live in Christ! My life is the testimony of God’s grace. I have been brought into a place of wealth untold. I am enjoying all that belongs to me in Christ. I live and walk in prosperity even as goodness and mercy follow me all the days of my life. I carry blessings with me everywhere. Whatever projects that I am involved with prosper and are highly profitable. My life is exuberant with joy and I walk in the manifestations of God’s righteousness in Jesus’ name. Amen. Speak in tongues.
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Senator Ali Ndume, who represents Borno South in the National Assembly, has expressed cautious openness to the growing opposition coalition reportedly planning to challenge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the upcoming 2027 general elections. In a revealing interview on Arise News TV on Tuesday night, Ndume admitted that while he has engaged with members of the coalition and even attended some of their strategic meetings, he remains hesitant to commit, emphasizing that he would not want to leap “from frying pan to fire.” “I am aware of the opposition coalition. I have gone to several of their meetings,” Ndume acknowledged during the program. When probed further about whether the coalition has formally approached him to join their cause, the senator confirmed the development but maintained a guarded stance. “Yes, but I told them no. I don’t want to jump from frying pan to fire. I have to be sure. I am a loyal person and I have my reasons for being loyal,” he said. Ndume’s remarks come at a time of heightened political speculation regarding the formation of a new political movement in Nigeria. The emerging coalition is reportedly considering the All Democratic Alliance (ADA) — a newly proposed political platform that has formally submitted an application for registration to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The ADA is rumored to be the vessel through which a formidable opposition front will be formed ahead of the 2027 elections. Among the influential figures leading the coalition are: The formation of such a coalition signifies deepening cracks within the existing political order and could lead to a significant shift in Nigeria’s political landscape. However, Senator Ndume’s stance reflects the caution many politicians may adopt amid uncertain alliances and power dynamics. While Ndume has yet to align formally with the opposition, his participation in their meetings signals a potential ideological shift, or at the very least, an interest in alternative political futures. This development is part of a broader conversation about governance, loyalty, and the realignment of political structures ahead of 2027.
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In a rather unexpected turn of events, former Manchester United legend Edwin van der Sar has tipped his old club to clinch the English Premier League title next season, ahead of some of the league’s top-performing clubs. The iconic Dutch shot-stopper, who once made the goalposts at Old Trafford his home for several seasons, is confident that Manchester United will rise above fierce competitors such as Manchester City, Liverpool, and Arsenal to claim the prestigious league crown. Although Van der Sar did not delve into specifics or provide detailed reasoning behind his bold prediction, he remained firm in his belief that it is finally Manchester United’s time to be crowned champions once more. In a conversation with sports outlet LiveScore TBRFootball, the former Netherlands international was asked to name the club he believes will triumph in the Premier League next season. Without hesitation, he bypassed names like Arsenal, Manchester City, and Liverpool—clubs that have shown stronger form in recent seasons—and confidently stated: “Manchester United.” This declaration caught many fans and pundits off guard, especially given the Red Devils’ disappointing campaign in the previous season, where their struggles on the pitch left little room for optimism among supporters. When pressed directly on who he believes will take the title, Van der Sar reaffirmed his conviction without blinking: “Manchester United.” Notably, this isn’t the first time the legendary goalkeeper has shown faith in his former team. He had previously spoken out in support of Manchester United’s current manager, Ruben Amorim, who took over the reins during a turbulent period for the club. Van der Sar had urged both the board and supporters to remain patient and back Amorim through the rebuilding phase. Despite a challenging season where Manchester United ended up 15th in the Premier League standings, their performance in continental competition offered a brief glimmer of hope. The Red Devils managed to reach the final of the UEFA Europa League, only to fall short against domestic rivals Tottenham Hotspur in a tightly contested final clash. With such a rollercoaster of a season behind them, Van der Sar’s forecast of Premier League success next season may seem overly optimistic to some. However, his deep-rooted connection with the club and inside knowledge of its culture might hint at changes happening behind the scenes—changes that could bring United back into title contention.
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Italian former U-21 striker Antonio Floro Flores has sparked debate after making a harsh remark about Nigerian forward Victor Osimhen, calling him a “mediocre player” and suggesting that his career path should now shift to Saudi Arabia’s football scene. Speaking in a recent interview with Radio Kiss Kiss Napoli, Floro Flores voiced strong disapproval of Osimhen’s perceived lack of loyalty to Napoli, the Serie A club that brought him global recognition. Osimhen, who signed for Napoli in 2020, played a vital role in helping the club secure the Serie A championship title for the first time in over three decades. His explosive pace and goal-scoring ability were instrumental in that historic win. However, despite his past performance, he spent the last season on loan at Galatasaray, which raised questions about his future. According to Floro Flores, Osimhen has failed to maintain consistency and seems to have allowed fame to affect his sense of gratitude and professionalism. “Victor Osimhen? Honestly, he should just head to Saudi Arabia. I’m genuinely tired of hearing about him. It’s frustrating to discuss a player who, in my opinion, only delivered top performance for a single season,” Floro Flores expressed. The ex-forward went further, expressing disdain for Osimhen’s attitude, particularly pointing out his recent actions on social media that suggest he may be distancing himself from Napoli. “We are dealing with someone who annoys me. He’s turning his back on the city that elevated his career to international stardom. He erased Napoli-related content from his Instagram. His choices are disrespectful,” he added. Floro Flores didn’t mince words as he criticized Osimhen’s lack of long-term loyalty and questioned the perception of him as a football star. “Even his own mother probably wouldn’t recognize who he’s become. If I were advising him professionally, I’d move him to the Saudi league right away. Honestly, I don’t believe he even realizes that he is far from being a top-tier player,” Flores concluded. Despite Osimhen being linked with potential transfers to elite clubs across Europe, this criticism highlights how divisive his public image has become, especially among Italian football analysts.
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In a major development in European football, Luka Modric’s next club after leaving Real Madrid has been officially confirmed. The legendary Croatian midfielder is now poised to join AC Milan this summer, concluding his iconic journey with the Spanish giants. Currently, Modric is with Real Madrid representing the team at the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 being held in the United States. Once the tournament wraps up, the 38-year-old playmaker will reportedly put pen to paper on a deal with Serie A giants AC Milan, thus beginning a new chapter in his illustrious football career. “We are prepared to bring Luka Modrić to Milan. Our team requires new leaders,” stated AC Milan director Igli Tare in a recent press interview. “Modrić is interested in joining a club that remains competitive and can win major titles… and we’re actively working on making it happen,” he added. The 2018 Ballon d’Or winner will part ways with Real Madrid’s Santiago Bernabéu after a decade of stellar achievements. Modric has been a key architect of Madrid’s dominance in both domestic and European competitions, collecting an impressive haul of silverware. His accomplishments include six UEFA Champions League trophies, which is a testament to his incredible impact on the pitch and his legendary midfield mastery. As he prepares to don the AC Milan jersey, fans and football pundits alike are eager to see how Modric will influence the Italian side’s ambition to reclaim dominance both in Serie A and on the European stage.
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Peter Obi Decries Nigeria’s Legal System After Alleged Illegal Demolition in Ikeja, Lagos LAGOS, Nigeria — Peter Obi, former Labour Party presidential candidate and ex-Governor of Anambra State, has described Nigeria as a nation lacking law and order following the alleged unlawful demolition of his younger brother’s business premises in the Ikeja area of Lagos State. In a detailed statement posted on his verified Facebook account on Tuesday, Obi expressed deep concern over what he called the increasing erosion of the rule of law and the alarming disregard for citizens’ civil rights and legal protections. He warned that such trends are sending dangerous signals to investors and jeopardizing Nigeria’s economic stability. “When a society allows lawlessness to thrive over lawful process, it cannot attract or retain serious investors,” Obi emphasized. “The current human rights records in Nigeria have continued to decline, pointing to serious failures by the state to uphold the dignity, safety, and rights of its people.” Peter Obi Narrates His Brother’s Ordeal in Ikeja Recounting the incident, Obi explained that he received a distress call early Tuesday morning from his younger brother, who had just returned to Lagos from Port Harcourt. His brother informed him that unidentified persons had stormed the property owned by his company in Ikeja and commenced demolition activities. Obi immediately traveled from Abuja to Lagos and went straight to the site. Upon arrival, he met with security operatives who initially attempted to deny him entry to the premises. “I told them this property belongs to my brother’s company and has been legally held for over ten years. It has been in use and maintained,” he explained. When he asked to see any official court order or documentation authorizing the demolition, the security team allegedly presented a questionable court judgment, reportedly issued against an “unknown person” and some unidentified squatters—not naming the legal property owners. Obi Questions the Legal Process Behind the Demolition “Where is the legal foundation for this?” Obi questioned. “How can a court of law issue a ruling against unnamed individuals? Who was served the notice? This is a tragic mockery of justice.” Obi was dismayed that the building—standing for more than 15 years—was demolished under such vague pretenses. He also expressed his frustration at being unable to engage with anyone directly responsible. “I stood there for hours, from 10am to 2pm. No official showed up. I tried to speak with the contractor handling the demolition, but he said he didn’t even know who authorized the work. It was clearly a well-coordinated act of institutional impunity,” he stated. Investor Confidence at Risk, Obi Warns The respected statesman referenced a conversation with a regional entrepreneur who operates businesses across West Africa but refuses to establish any ventures in Nigeria. The businessman bluntly said: “Nigeria is lawless. Until laws protect both people and property, it’s too risky to invest here.” Obi echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the urgent need to rebuild public institutions and reestablish trust in Nigeria’s legal framework, especially if the country wishes to attract both local and international investments. Vision for a New Nigeria Despite the disturbing experience, Obi reaffirmed his commitment to the vision of a New Nigeria—a nation where the rights of citizens are protected and lawlessness is eradicated. “We cannot build a functional country if the lives, voices, and properties of our citizens are constantly under threat. My vision for Nigeria is rooted in the principles of justice, equity, the rule of law, and the welfare of all Nigerians—especially the vulnerable,” Obi concluded. He stressed the importance of respect for human dignity, the protection of personal and business assets, and universal access to education and opportunity as cornerstones for a better Nigeria.
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As the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 continues to heat up, a total of ten football clubs have officially advanced to the Round of 16 following the most recent matches concluded late Tuesday into the early hours of Wednesday. Among the key fixtures, Benfica emerged victorious in a tightly contested clash with Bayern Munich, securing a narrow 1-0 win that earned them a well-deserved qualification spot in the last-16 phase of the tournament. The Portuguese side’s triumph came courtesy of an early first-half strike from Andreas Schjelderup, which proved decisive against the reigning Bundesliga champions, Bayern Munich. On another front, Chelsea FC solidified their presence in the knock-out stage with a dominant 3-0 victory over ES Tunis. Under the guidance of Enzo Maresca, the Premier League side showcased attacking brilliance with goals from Tosin Adarabioyo, Liam Delap, and Tyrique George sealing their advancement. With these results, both Chelsea and Benfica now join the growing list of elite clubs that have made it to the tournament’s next stage. So far, the clubs qualified for the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 Round of 16 include: The tournament promises even more excitement as the knock-out rounds approach, with top-tier clubs across different continents battling for global supremacy. Stay updated with all FIFA Club World Cup 2025 fixtures and results on the official FIFA website.
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In response to the deteriorating security situation in Plateau State and its surrounding regions, the Nigerian House of Representatives has officially set up a dedicated Ad hoc Committee to spearhead a national security dialogue aimed at finding long-term solutions to the persistent crises affecting these areas. During the inauguration ceremony held in Abuja on Tuesday, Rep. Hammed Waheed (APC-Lagos)—the chairman of the newly formed committee—expressed deep concern over the frequent violent conflicts that continue to plague Plateau State. He emphasized that the situation has reached an alarming stage, with countless lives lost, communities displaced, and trust shattered across ethnic and religious lines. Security Crisis in Plateau: A Deepening Concern for Nigeria According to Rep. Waheed, the wave of violence in Plateau is not an isolated scenario. Instead, it has far-reaching consequences that extend into neighboring states, posing a serious threat to Nigeria’s broader national security and stability. He noted that the recurrent bloodshed and destruction of livelihoods have left numerous families mourning and communities in perpetual fear. “These tragic developments are not just local; they ripple across borders and compromise national unity,” he warned. Purpose of the Ad Hoc Security Committee In light of these concerns, the House of Representatives, during its plenary session held on May 8, unanimously approved the creation of the Ad hoc Committee, aimed at organizing a comprehensive national security conference. Waheed stated that the goal of the conference is to bring together key actors from various sectors of society, including: This diverse assembly is expected to engage in open, honest, and strategic dialogue, leading to actionable and sustainable policy recommendations. “This is not another talk shop. It is a platform for healing, deep reflection, and crafting solutions that will end this cycle of violence,” Waheed remarked. National Unity and Peace as Core Objectives The committee chairman highlighted that this initiative serves as a rare opportunity for truth-telling and national healing, rather than just another bureaucratic event. The conference aims to serve as a turning point for peacebuilding efforts in Nigeria, particularly in regions such as Plateau, Benue, Kaduna, Nasarawa, and others currently facing severe communal tensions. The House hopes that this platform will become a blueprint for addressing internal security threats across the federation.
