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.
Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has announced that a total of 53 individuals have been apprehended in relation to the recent waves of violent attacks that rocked communities in Benue and Plateau States, resulting in numerous casualties and displacements. Speaking during a press briefing in Abuja on Tuesday, the IGP revealed these arrests as part of ongoing national efforts to curb escalating insecurity in Nigeria’s middle belt region. His statements shed more light on the tragic developments that have sparked widespread concerns across the country. Breakdown of the Arrests Following Deadly Attacks The IGP emphasized that the June 13 mass killing in Yelewata, a community located in Benue State, was not a random act but rather a coordinated terrorist assault. The gruesome incident led to significant loss of life and property, heightening tensions within the region. According to Egbetokun, 22 individuals were arrested in direct connection to the Yelewata attack, while another 22 suspects were taken into custody for their alleged involvement in the killings that occurred in Plateau State. An additional five suspects were also apprehended in Benue for their involvement in a separate, more recent assault. Casualties and Weapons Recovered Providing further insight, the IGP disclosed that the Yelewata assault claimed 47 lives and left 27 others severely injured, reinforcing the scale and brutality of the operation. During investigations and tactical operations, two general-purpose machine guns and eight AK-47 rifles were recovered from the suspects — weapons believed to have been used during the heinous crimes. The police authorities have pledged to continue thorough investigations to ensure that justice is served and that those responsible are prosecuted accordingly. More detailed updates are expected from the Nigeria Police Force in the coming days.
Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah, has urged for broader state participation in the solid minerals sector to unlock its full economic potential and drive national diversification efforts. He also condemned the increasing rate of illegal mining and its adverse impact on the economy. During a visit by members of the Senate Committee on Solid Minerals Development to the Enugu Government House, Governor Mbah emphasized the urgent need for constitutional reforms and legislative support that would enable states to have more influence over solid mineral exploration and control within their territories. “This Committee is tasked with a mission of national importance,” Governor Mbah noted. “Solid minerals represent an untapped economic goldmine. As we push for economic diversification in Nigeria, this sector must become a pillar in our development agenda.” He advocated for stronger inclusion of state governments in both the exploration and exploitation of solid mineral resources, stressing that such synergy between national and sub-national governments is essential for sustainable growth. According to him, illegal mining operations have continued to exploit these resources with minimal benefits to the country. “Many of these mineral assets remain dormant or are being mismanaged by unauthorized individuals. We believe that your committee can drive meaningful change by prioritizing state inclusion,” the governor said. Legislative Conflicts Hindering Mining Sector Efficiency Governor Mbah also drew attention to legal ambiguities causing conflicts in the sector. He cited the clash between the Nigerian Inland Waterways Act and the Mining Act, especially over the control of sand mining along coastal zones. “We hope your committee will address these jurisdictional overlaps that often slow down legitimate mining activities,” he added. Call for Geospatial Data to Drive Investment In an effort to position Enugu as a viable investment hub for mining, Governor Mbah called for updated and accurate geospatial and geological data. He argued that the lack of reliable data was one of the key reasons investors shy away from the sector. “Current data are either obsolete or insufficient. For meaningful investment to occur, there must be clarity in responsibilities and tangible returns on investment,” Mbah explained. “With accurate geospatial frameworks, global companies will see reasons to invest in Nigeria’s mineral sector.” He pledged full cooperation from the Enugu State Government with the National Assembly and the Federal Government in overhauling the mining industry. Senate Committee Acknowledges Enugu’s Rich Mineral Reserves In his earlier remarks, Senator Ekong Sampson, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Solid Minerals Development, acknowledged Enugu’s pivotal position in Nigeria’s mineral map. He highlighted the abundance of valuable mineral deposits across the state, which include: Senator Sampson commended Governor Mbah’s leadership and strategic vision for development, stating that Enugu’s mineral wealth could significantly enhance investment, employment, and economic diversification in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. “The Senate is committed to fostering legal, regulatory, and policy frameworks that will unlock the mining sector. Our collaboration with Enugu will strengthen legislative processes and economic outcomes,” Sampson assured.
Nigerian veteran musician, Daddy Showkey, has shared an emotional testimony about the unwavering support he received from Fuji star Alabi Pasuma during one of the most challenging periods of his life. During a recent live performance at a celebrity event, a viral video captured the heartfelt moment Daddy Showkey publicly appreciated Pasuma. The touching tribute happened when Pasuma surprisingly joined him on stage, triggering a powerful wave of nostalgia and gratitude. According to Daddy Showkey, he suffered a serious accident in 2007, which left him hospitalized for a lengthy period of three years. In the midst of the crisis, when most of his industry colleagues turned their backs, Pasuma stepped in as his sole support system—feeding and caring for his family throughout the ordeal. “This man stood by me not only in good times but especially in bad times,” Daddy Showkey said passionately on stage. The singer, known for his energetic stage presence and street credibility, revealed that the accident kept him away from public appearances and performances for years. During this time, Pasuma became the only person in the entertainment industry who consistently showed up for him and his family. “Many people didn’t see me sing or perform publicly because I was in the hospital for three years. But it was Pasuma who ensured that my family had food and were okay. I will never forget what he did for me,” he added. He went on to express deep disappointment in other friends and colleagues who distanced themselves during his recovery. He recalled how several of them deliberately avoided him—even when he made efforts to visit. “I went to see them, but they pretended not to be at home. They would ask people to tell me they weren’t around while they were hiding inside their houses,” he lamented. This revelation has sparked conversations across social media about loyalty, friendship, and true support in the Nigerian entertainment industry. It also highlights Pasuma’s humility and kindness, beyond his Fuji music legacy.
Popular Nigerian Afro-fusion artist Stanley Omah Didia, widely recognized by his stage name Omah Lay, has once again opened up about his ongoing battle with depression, revealing a surprising factor that could help alleviate his emotional pain — a substantial amount of money. Taking to social media on Tuesday, the Soso hitmaker made a bold and emotional statement about his mental health, indicating that a sum of 10 million in pounds or dollars could significantly ease his depressive symptoms — even if just for a temporary period of one month. In his candid post shared on his official X (formerly Twitter) handle, the talented singer wrote: “10M in pounds or dollars right now will heal me for at least a month.” This statement reflects the singer’s unfiltered honesty about the mental toll he continues to endure, despite fame and success. Omah Lay has not shied away from discussing the depth of his chronic depression, which he has previously stated nearly claimed his life. Omah Lay’s Upcoming Album Will Explore His Healing Journey Fans of the soulful artist can expect a deeper dive into his emotional world in his upcoming sophomore studio album titled “Clarity of Mind”. According to Omah Lay, this project is set to document his personal experiences and the emotional healing process he’s going through, including how he’s attempting to rise above his mental health struggles. This new body of work follows the release of his critically acclaimed debut album, “Boy Alone,” which dropped on July 15, 2022. That album served as a raw and vulnerable window into the singer’s internal turmoil, with emotional ballads that painted a vivid picture of his battle with depression. Just a few days after releasing the album, on July 18, 2022, Omah Lay made a shocking revelation via his X platform that his mental health had significantly declined following an inappropriate encounter with someone who was supposed to be helping him — his therapist. The singer confessed that having sexual relations with his therapist further deepened his emotional instability and worsened his depressive episodes. Despite the struggles, fans continue to rally around the artist, offering support and expressing anticipation for his next musical chapter. Omah Lay remains one of Nigeria’s most introspective and emotionally transparent musical talents, using his platform to shed light on important conversations around mental health awareness, especially within the African entertainment industry.
Pastor Chris Oyakhilome DSc DSc DD But for us also, to whom it shall be imputed, if we believe on him that raised up Jesus our Lord from the dead; Who was delivered for our offences, and was raised again for our justification (Romans 4:24-25). Did you know that when Jesus was raised from the dead, you were raised together with Him? He wasn’t raised alone. We were in Him. Ephesians 2:5-6 says God “…quickened us together with Christ…and hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus.” Notice that it says “God quickened us together with Christ”; that means we came alive with Christ. Just as we were in Him in His death on the Cross and when He was buried, we were also in Him when He was raised back to life. When He was raised back to life, He was born again; He was a new man. We, therefore, being raised together with Him, came alive as new creations in Christ Jesus: “Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life” (Romans 6:4). You’re not the man that was condemned in sin; you’re a new creation in Christ Jesus. Now you can understand why you’re justified by faith; why you’re declared not guilty. It’s not because Jesus died for you; that’s the legal aspect of justification. Our justification didn’t come because He died for us. His death for us was enough to set us free, but that’s not justification. Justification is about acquittal; you’re acquitted because you’re a new creature, without a past. Therefore, our justification is the result of the life of Christ in us. That’s the life of the new creation; it’s without sin. It also helps you understand why the Bible says you’re to walk in newness of life (Romans 6:4), putting on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness (Ephesians 4:24). PRAYERDear Father, thank you for my justification in Christ Jesus. I live in the consciousness of my righteousness, free from guilt and condemnation. Being raised together with Christ, I reign in life as a new creation, unblemished and irreproachable in your sight. Your life in me is my confidence and assurance of a victorious, glorious and righteous walk, in Jesus’ Name. Amen. FURTHER STUDYRomans 3:21-26But now the righteousness of God without the law is manifested, being witnessed by the law and the prophets; 22 Even the righteousness of God [which is] by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference: 23 For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; 24 Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: 25 Whom God hath set forth [to be] a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God; 26 To declare, [I say], at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus. 1 Corinthians 6:11And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God. Romans 5:1Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: DAILY SCRIPTURE READING1-Year Bible Reading PlanActs 11:1-18 & Ezra 9-10 2-Year Bible Reading PlanLuke 3:23-38 & Deuteronomy 22 Extract From Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional DAILY AFFIRMATIONS: I am an heir of God; therefore, the silver is mine, and the gold is mine; the world belongs to me. I am from the wealthiest family and I have an inexhaustible inheritance in Christ Jesus. I am connected to an endless stream of prosperity, riches, and glory. The ability of God is at work in me today, and I’m conscious of it! I don’t function in my own ability or strength, for God’s inherent ability is in me. I know who I am, the child of the Monarch of the universe. The peace of God garrisons my heart and mind in Christ. My heart is stayed on the Lord who is my rock and fortress, my protection, and salvation. I am preserved from the machinations of wicked and unreasonable men. I have peace on every side. I am surrounded with God’s favour as a shield, and positioned by His grace for a life of peace and total prosperity! I win every day, because I live by the faith of Jesus Christ. His divine power has given me everything I require for life and godliness, and I know it. Therefore, I rejoice in my victories, prosperity, and blessed life in Christ. I am sufficient in Christ’s sufficiency, and His grace is enough for me in all things. Grace, the lifting power of God, attracts the right people, materials, and resources into my life. I am positioned for success and victory. I think thoughts of peace, joy, prosperity, and good health, knowing that God’s grace ensures that I have all that I need. I function with supernatural strength and abilities today. Nothing and no one can hurt or harm me, for my sufficiency is of God. I walk in preordained pathways of blessings! Divine health flourishes in me. Goodness and mercy follow me everywhere I go, and I have the supernatural grace to excel in all endeavors today. Everything that concerns me prospers exceedingly. Christ is my wisdom. I’m filled with the fullness of God; loaded with all power, glory, might, and grace! The totality of divinity is fully present in my spirit and uniquely expressed through me! I display the perfections of Christ in sound health and with a life that is sickness-free in the mighty name of Jesus Christ. Amen!
The stage is heating up in the ongoing FIFA Club World Cup 2025, being hosted across various cities in the United States, as two exciting Round of 16 fixtures have now been confirmed. Football fans worldwide are buzzing in anticipation as Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) is set to take on Inter Miami CF, sparking what many are calling “The Lionel Messi Derby.” This thrilling encounter is gathering momentum, especially given the narrative behind it—Lionel Messi, who currently stars for Inter Miami, once donned the PSG jersey before making his high-profile switch to the Major League Soccer (MLS). How Inter Miami Secured Their Spot in the Knockouts Inter Miami CF earned their place in the knockout stage after a pulsating 2-2 draw against Brazilian giants Palmeiras. The Florida-based club stormed into a two-goal lead, with Tadeo Allende finding the back of the net first, followed by another fine finish from legendary forward Luis Suarez in the second half. However, Palmeiras were not to be outdone. In a dramatic late resurgence, the Brazilian team drew level within a mere seven minutes—Paulinho and Mauricio scoring to restore parity and make it a balanced but intense contest. Despite the draw, Inter’s earlier results and goal difference saw them safely into the Round of 16, making them the only MLS team to reach this far in the tournament. This feat is particularly impressive given the early exits of Los Angeles FC and Seattle Sounders, both of whom failed to advance past the group stage. Palmeiras Progresses to Next Round to Face Botafogo Although Palmeiras missed out on winning the match, their overall group performance earned them the top spot in their group. This achievement sets them up for an all-Brazilian clash in the next round, where they will face Botafogo—another heavyweight club from Brazil’s top-flight football. As the tournament progresses, eyes will be keenly fixed on these two Round of 16 fixtures: PSG vs Inter Miami and Palmeiras vs Botafogo, promising intense drama and unforgettable football action.
Inter Miami manager Javier Mascherano has shared his excitement and satisfaction after his team successfully advanced to the Round of 16 in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. The Major League Soccer side earned a crucial 2-2 draw against Palmeiras on Monday, a result that guaranteed both clubs progression into the tournament’s knockout stage. Miami Takes Early Lead but Settles for a Draw Inter Miami started the game strongly, taking a commanding two-goal lead courtesy of strikes from Tadeo Allende and veteran forward Luis Suárez. Their attacking momentum gave them early control over the match. However, Palmeiras mounted a late comeback in the closing stages. With only ten minutes remaining on the clock, Paulinho and Mauricio found the back of the net, helping the Brazilian side secure an important draw and deny Inter Miami a win. Mascherano Reflects on Tough South American Opposition Speaking after the match, Mascherano praised his squad’s display against a highly respected opponent from the CONMEBOL region, describing it as a strong and commendable performance. “It was a great game from us. It’s difficult to play against one of the best teams in South America,” said the Argentine coach. “Maybe at the end, we had the game in our hands so the feeling is strange. But before the start of the tournament, if someone had told me we would perform like this against top-level clubs, I would have taken it immediately.” The draw placed Inter Miami in second position within their group, just behind Palmeiras, setting up a challenging fixture in the next round. Next Challenge: Paris Saint-Germain Awaits As runners-up, Inter Miami will now face Ligue 1 giants Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in a high-stakes battle for a quarter-final slot. The upcoming clash is expected to be one of the tournament’s headline fixtures, with Lionel Messi’s former club standing between Miami and the next stage. Mascherano’s team, featuring big names like Luis Suárez and Tadeo Allende, will need to deliver a near-flawless performance to overcome the French champions and continue their Club World Cup dream.
In a major development concerning Middle Eastern diplomacy, U.S. President Donald Trump announced that both Israel and Iran have officially reached a mutual agreement to halt hostilities. This declaration was made public on Monday through Trump’s Truth Social platform, where he revealed that the two nations had committed to a “Complete and Total Ceasefire”, putting an end to a 12-day period of escalating conflict. According to the statement, the ceasefire is scheduled to begin at approximately 04:00 GMT on Tuesday, signaling what Trump described as the “official end” to the nearly two-week confrontation. The ceasefire, which is to be implemented in phases, marks a significant turn in the turbulent relationship between the two Middle Eastern powers, known for years of geopolitical tension and proxy warfare. “It has been fully agreed by and between Israel and Iran that there will be a Complete and Total CEASEFIRE,” Trump wrote on his Truth Social account. This development has drawn global attention due to the historical implications of such a truce. While details surrounding the negotiation process remain limited, the announcement suggests high-level behind-the-scenes diplomacy, likely involving international intermediaries and pressure from world powers. The 12-day conflict, which caused widespread alarm across global diplomatic and humanitarian communities, included aggressive rhetoric and military posturing, raising fears of a broader regional war. The ceasefire may pave the way for further dialogue, easing tensions in an already volatile region. Broader Implications of the Iran-Israel Ceasefire The Middle East has long been a focal point of international diplomatic efforts, and a direct ceasefire agreement between Israel and Iran—two historically adversarial states—is both unexpected and consequential. While previous clashes have typically played out through proxy groups or indirect confrontations, this recent 12-day conflict marked a rare direct escalation, making the ceasefire a potentially game-changing diplomatic moment. Political analysts suggest that such a move may have broader implications for peace negotiations, sanctions policies, and military strategies in the region. Moreover, Trump’s involvement in brokering or at least publicizing the deal may influence both domestic and international political discourse, particularly as the former president remains active in American political commentary. As the world watches closely for official statements from both Tel Aviv and Tehran, along with potential confirmations from international bodies such as the United Nations or the European Union, the focus will shift to the implementation phase of the ceasefire and whether both sides will uphold their end of the agreement.
Atletico Madrid head coach, Diego Simeone, has shared his thoughts on why his team failed to progress in the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 despite a notable performance. On Monday, Atletico Madrid secured a 1-0 victory over Botafogo in their final Group B fixture. Although the Spanish side finished the group stage with six points, it wasn’t enough to move forward into the Round of 16 — as they were edged out based on goal difference. Paris Saint-Germain and Botafogo both advanced to the knockout stage, having topped Group B with superior goal statistics despite also gathering six points. During his post-match interview, Simeone reflected on the challenges his team faced. He hinted that Group B may have been the toughest bracket in the competition, considering the pedigree of the participating clubs. “Some may say we were eliminated, but this was the most challenging group. We are out due to goal difference,” the Argentine tactician stated. Simeone emphasized that Atletico Madrid is accustomed to facing top-tier opponents, citing regular domestic battles with Barcelona and Real Madrid, as well as consistent participation in the UEFA Champions League. He concluded, “We were drawn with the reigning Champions League and Libertadores winners. We earned the same points as them. So, we are calm. We understand the areas we must improve on.”
Nasir El-Rufai, the former Governor of Kaduna State, has outlined the critical motivations that led to the political merger which ousted President Goodluck Jonathan in 2015. El-Rufai addressed a recurring perception that coalitions tend to emerge mainly when a Southern leader holds the presidency. He was responding to observations connecting the formation of coalitions to Southern leadership, especially as it occurred under Jonathan and appears to be resurfacing under President Tinubu. It should be recalled that during Jonathan’s presidency, various opposition political parties merged to form what is now the All Progressives Congress (APC). Today, under President Bola Tinubu—also a Southerner—the coalition discussion is once again gaining momentum. As one of the instrumental political figures behind the formation of the APC, El-Rufai reflected on how President Muhammadu Buhari’s eight-year administration—often labeled as one of the most ineffective—went by without any such coalition challenges arising. When questioned about why coalitions often emerge during Southern-led governments, El-Rufai responded that the matter had never occurred to him deeply. “That’s not something I focus on. The coalition against Jonathan happened due to three major reasons,” El-Rufai stated. He elaborated further, noting: “This was a strategic survival move,” El-Rufai added. “The three major parties decided to come together because they saw the PDP overpowering them one by one. It wasn’t really about North or South. It was simply about leadership performance.” Interestingly, El-Rufai has since exited the APC and joined the Social Democratic Party (SDP). There is growing speculation among Nigerians that El-Rufai’s defection might be tied to grievances over President Tinubu’s refusal to appoint him as a minister. Currently, El-Rufai stands as a prominent member of an opposition alliance that has pledged to unseat President Tinubu in the 2027 general elections, aiming to send him back to his Lagos residence.
Nasir El-Rufai, the former Kaduna State governor, has alleged that a group of urban bandits is working tirelessly to destabilize Nigeria, and that recent political movements reflect a strong counter-response aimed at restoring national direction. Speaking during an exclusive interview on Arise News on Monday evening, El-Rufai revealed that a newly formed coalition of political leaders—many of whom are now opposed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu—share a common goal beyond personal ambition. According to the former Federal Capital Territory Minister, the coalition is focused solely on saving the country from targeted destruction and has yet to engage in discussions about individual political ambitions. “Nobody in the coalition is speaking about their personal aspiration—at least not for now,” El-Rufai explained. “We are politicians and students of power, so naturally, aspirations may arise later. But for now, everyone is committed to one goal: rescuing Nigeria from these urban bandits who seek to bring the nation down.” He added, “Everyone is saying, ‘We have a national crisis. Nigeria is under attack by a coordinated group of urban saboteurs. Let’s unite, remove them, and restore order and progress.’” El-Rufai emphasized that the coalition’s motivation lies in fixing the country, not pursuing personal ambition. “That shared purpose is refreshing. I feel empowered and inspired by the sincerity and urgency I’ve seen so far,” he said. El-Rufai, once a staunch supporter of President Tinubu and instrumental to his victory in the 2023 elections, has now formally exited the All Progressives Congress (APC). He has joined the Social Democratic Party (SDP), marking a significant shift in the political landscape. The outspoken leader has since become a central figure in the anti-Tinubu alliance. He maintains that Tinubu will not return to Aso Rock after the 2027 elections, signaling a fierce battle ahead for the presidency.
Napoli forward Victor Osimhen has reportedly been presented with a jaw-dropping contract proposal from Saudi Arabia, signaling a potential high-profile move this summer. The Nigerian international, who played a vital role in securing Napoli’s Serie A title two years ago, is now expected to depart the Italian club permanently in the current transfer window. Although Osimhen spent the past season on loan with Turkish giants Galatasaray, his future remains uncertain as he continues to weigh multiple transfer options. The 26-year-old previously rejected several offers from Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal, but the club has now returned with an upgraded bid in hopes of securing his signature. As per a report from Corriere dello Sport, the new offer would see Osimhen earning approximately £34 million annually, totaling close to £140 million over a four-year period — an offer that could place him among the highest-paid footballers globally if accepted. Osimhen currently has a £64 million release clause included in his Napoli contract.

