The demolition exercise carried out by the Adamawa State Government at the Jimeta Ultra-Modern Market in Yola has sparked widespread tension and mixed reactions among traders and residents of the area. The action, which commenced on Tuesday, was a direct implementation of Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri’s directive. The directive, contained in an official letter dated September 12, 2025, was issued by the Adamawa State Urban and Regional Planning Development Authority (ASUPDA). Authorities explained that several traders had erected unauthorized “temporary shops” within the market, blocking access roads, creating congestion, and distorting the approved master plan of the ultra-modern market. During the demolition, many traders and customers were seen expressing visible distress. While some residents commended the initiative, others condemned it, leaving opinions sharply divided. Traders Decry Harsh Impact Some traders such as Abubakar Sa’ad and Salomi Charles strongly criticized the government’s action. According to them, the demolition was carried out without granting them sufficient time to secure alternative spaces for their businesses. They stressed that the move came at a period when most Nigerians are already struggling with the economic downturn. They described the government’s decision as “harsh and inconsiderate” and appealed for intervention, urging the administration to provide alternative trading spaces for displaced shop owners. Government Defends the Action Meanwhile, the Commissioner for Commerce, Trade and Industry, Dr. Ishaya John Dabari, defended the demolition exercise. He explained that the enforcement was necessary to restore the market’s original structural design and ensure sanity within the commercial hub. Dabari emphasized that only traders who illegally constructed shops outside the master plan were affected. He added that no form of compensation was offered, as the shops were erected illegally. However, he admitted that both the government and traders had suffered short-term revenue losses due to the operation. “Although there is an immediate loss of revenue for both parties, the demolition exercise will help restore order and ultimately boost sustainable revenue generation in the long run,” Dabari stated. Over 2,000 Shops Demolished Also weighing in, the Chairman of the Restoration Committee and Director of the State Urban and Regional Planning Board, T.P. John Zutuwa, disclosed that more than 2,000 illegal shops and structures had already been demolished at the market, with additional structures yet to be removed. He firmly stressed that: “All developments not in line with the approved master plan must go.” The development continues to generate heated debates in Yola, with displaced traders demanding urgent intervention, while the government insists that the exercise is critical to bringing back order and ensuring the structural integrity of the Jimeta Ultra-Modern Market.
Former Big Brother Naija Season 10 housemate, Tracy Ekwe, has opened up on why she declined fellow contestant Kuture’s romantic advances during their time in the house. In her post-eviction interview with Classic FM Lagos, Tracy revealed that although Kuture wanted their friendship to evolve into a deeper relationship, she did not feel comfortable taking things further because their personalities were not a match. According to her, while Kuture is energetic and outspoken, she does not see him as her ideal partner. Tracy emphasized that her decision was not about dislike but rather incompatibility. “Kuture is my friend, but he wanted more than that. I couldn’t go further because he isn’t the type of person I connect with on that level. He’s great in his own way, but we are very different,” Tracy explained. She went on to highlight that part of Kuture’s charm in the house came from his lively and talkative nature, which she described as “being a parrot.” Tracy believed that this quality made him likable to the viewers. “There are things about him I wasn’t okay with, but I didn’t want to change him because that’s part of what makes him stand out. People love him for being a parrot. If he became quiet, he might have been evicted earlier. But as for me, I knew he wasn’t my type, and our personalities just don’t blend,” she added. Tracy’s candid explanation gives fans deeper insight into her choices inside the BBNaija 10 house, showing that compatibility matters more to her than fan expectations or housemate pressure.
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Nigerian rapper and songwriter, Vector Tha Viper, has shared a powerful testimony about the impact of his music. According to him, his collaboration with Goodgirl LA on the track “Early Momo” played a major role in helping a patient in a psychiatric home recover from depression. The “King Kong” crooner revealed this during a conversation on the recent episode of The Honest Bunch Podcast, where he emphasized the true essence of music and its ability to heal beyond commercial recognition. Vector explained that, for him, musical success is not defined only by chart positions or streaming numbers but also by the real-life changes it inspires in listeners. He described how his conscious music often aligns with people’s emotions during difficult times. “I can tell when people are experiencing struggles because certain tracks resurface heavily on streams. For instance, when my record with Seyi Vibez, ‘Mercy’, starts trending, it’s a signal that many listeners are dealing with deep thoughts and overthinking. That’s what music should represent – a companion for every phase of life,” he said. Vector further narrated how “Early Momo” unexpectedly brought hope to a psychiatric patient battling depression. “I dropped Early Momo, and later received a message from a psychiatric home explaining how the song played a role in someone’s recovery from depression. That’s a huge moment of success in another person’s life, even though I never set out with that intention. Success has different meanings, and this is one of them,” he explained. This heartfelt revelation highlights the transformative role of conscious music in mental health awareness. While many artistes pursue charts and awards, Vector insists that creating music that touches lives remains one of the most meaningful achievements an artiste can experience. For more Nigerian entertainment news, check out our article on how Burna Boy redefined Afrobeat with global influence.
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Nigerian Afrobeats sensation David Adeleke, widely recognized by his stage name Davido, is officially set to grace the stage of the prestigious Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival for the very first time in 2026. The much-anticipated announcement came after the festival organizers revealed the official line-up of performers. Among the global superstars listed, Davido stood out as the only Nigerian artist scheduled to perform at the highly celebrated event. The multi-award-winning singer, best known for hits such as “With Me”, shared the exciting news that he will perform on April 11 and April 18, 2026, at the iconic Empire Polo Club located in Indio, California. Fans worldwide are already looking forward to seeing him bring his unique Afrobeats rhythms and electrifying stage presence to one of the world’s largest music festivals. While Davido’s inclusion has sparked excitement, the 2026 Coachella will also feature powerhouse headliners such as Sabrina Carpenter, Justin Bieber, and Karol G. Other notable performers in the line-up include Young Thug, Major Lazer, Swae Lee, Teddy Swims, Giveon, and Central Cee, all of whom are expected to add extra energy to the international festival. According to LMSINT MEDIA, Davido’s upcoming appearance adds to the growing list of Nigerian stars who have showcased their talents at Coachella over the years. Icons like Seun Kuti, Burna Boy, Mr Eazi, Tems, Wizkid, and CKay have all previously delivered memorable performances on the global stage, solidifying Afrobeats’ dominance in international music culture. Davido’s Coachella debut is another testament to how Nigerian music continues to break boundaries, placing Africa firmly on the global entertainment map. With Afrobeats now influencing mainstream pop culture worldwide, his performance is expected to be one of the highlights of the 2026 festival.
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A coalition of civil rights advocates and legal professionals on Wednesday took their protest to the headquarters of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Abuja over the controversial $4 billion refinery rehabilitation scandal linked to the former Group Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), Mele Kyari. The demonstrators, operating under the platform of the Concerned Lawyers and Citizens Network (CLCN), openly accused the anti-graft commission of orchestrating a cover-up. They condemned the alleged diversion of $4 billion meant for refinery rehabilitation, describing it as an act of “economic treason” that sabotages Nigeria’s national growth and long-term development. Speaking on behalf of the protesters, Barrister Theophilus Ojonugwa stressed that what transpired was far beyond a financial crime. According to him, it represents “a direct assault on human dignity and a deliberate setback to the nation’s progress.” He emphasized that the scandal has forced Nigeria to remain heavily dependent on imported petroleum products, worsening the burden on ordinary citizens. The activists highlighted that the alleged misused funds could have transformed critical sectors such as education, healthcare, and employment generation. They linked the missing billions to unconstructed schools, unequipped hospitals, and countless job opportunities denied to Nigerian youths. To them, the scandal represents a betrayal of intergenerational trust and a deliberate obstruction of Nigeria’s future. In a strongly worded statement, the CLCN criticized the EFCC for what it called a “romance with corruption” and selective justice. They noted that while young Nigerians face severe punishments for minor infractions, high-profile corruption cases are often handled with leniency. “Justice must remain blind and uncompromising,” Ojonugwa declared. “If the $4 billion refinery rehabilitation scandal is treated with kid gloves, Nigeria will be further seen as a haven for looters and economic saboteurs.” The group demanded the immediate arrest and prosecution of those implicated in the scandal. They also called for the confiscation of all properties and assets connected to the misappropriated funds. In their view, only bold and transparent actions can restore confidence in Nigeria’s anti-corruption system. Furthermore, the Concerned Lawyers and Citizens Network urged the EFCC to commission an independent forensic audit to be carried out by internationally recognized firms. This, they believe, is the only way to guarantee transparency and credibility in unraveling the scandal. Turning to President Bola Tinubu, the group reminded him of his anti-corruption campaign promises. They challenged him to make this scandal a defining “watershed moment” in Nigeria’s war against impunity and graft. “If this $4 billion had been used as intended, Nigeria would not still be grappling with refining shortfalls today,” Ojonugwa lamented. “The tragedy lies not only in the looted funds but also in the continued cycle of energy poverty.” The lawyers and civil rights campaigners insisted that Nigerians are closely monitoring the EFCC’s response. They warned that the public will hold the anti-graft agency accountable for either taking decisive action or enabling impunity to thrive. “The future of Nigeria depends on the courage of its people,” Ojonugwa concluded, urging citizens to remain steadfast, reject silence, and continue demanding justice until transparency and accountability are upheld.
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The Governor of Cross River State, Senator Bassey Otu, has officially deposed Ntufam Linus Effiong Oben Tabi from his role as the village head of Mbot Akpa and Ekinta Clan, located in Akamkpa Local Government Area. According to the governor’s Special Adviser on Chieftaincy Affairs, Otuekong Francis Edet, the decision was taken after a thorough review revealed that the traditional leader was involved in impersonation and obtaining recognition through misleading claims. Findings from Chieftaincy Affairs Investigation A detailed investigation conducted by the Department of Chieftaincy Affairs confirmed that Tabi secured a certificate of recognition for Mbot Akpa village. However, Mbot Akpa was not included under the Cross River State Edict No. 1 (Clan Creation) of 1996, raising serious concerns about the legitimacy of his claims. The official decertification letter also pointed out that Mbot Akpa is essentially the same as Esuk Effiom Iyaweh in Iko Eneyo Clan, Akpabuyo Local Government Area. Authorities concluded that this was a calculated attempt by Tabi to create legitimacy through deceptive means. Dual Leadership Across Two Local Government Areas Further findings uncovered that Ntufam Tabi was simultaneously occupying leadership positions in two separate clans located in different LGAs. Opponents described this as unlawful and destabilizing, insisting that such actions undermine community harmony and traditional authority structures. Petition by Traditional Rulers The disciplinary action came after a petition submitted by five traditional rulers under the Ekonganaku Traditional Rulers Council. The petition demanded his removal in order to restore peace, order, and respect for cultural institutions within the affected communities. Government’s Position Confirming the development, Special Adviser Francis Edet stated that the Cross River State Government would not tolerate misconduct from any traditional authority. He emphasized that peace, stability, and respect for the law must guide the recognition of all traditional rulers across the state. Reaction of the Dethroned Monarch When approached, the dethroned clan head, Ntufam Linus Effiong Oben Tabi, explained that he had not yet been served with an official notice of removal. In his words: “I have nothing to say for now because I am yet to be served. Once I am served, if the law says it’s right, no problem. If it says it’s wrong, I will know what to do.”
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The Abia State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Federal Government’s ongoing campaign against the spread of small arms and light weapons in Nigeria. Governor Alex Otti emphasized this position while hosting a delegation led by Captain Chris Anusiem, the newly appointed South East Zonal Director of the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons (NCCSALW), during their courtesy visit to his office. Governor Otti noted that the disturbing rise in crimes across the country is largely fueled by the unchecked circulation of illicit weapons. He pointed out that almost every violent act is executed with light arms, stressing the urgent need for collaborative measures to reduce such threats. “Virtually, all the crimes you see around are committed with light weapons and small arms.If we don’t eliminate them, or at least reduce them to the barest minimum, then we cannot have peace,” the Governor said. Security Commitment in Abia State Otti highlighted that his administration is actively working with relevant security agencies to ensure that criminals escaping from neighboring states do not find refuge in Abia. He assured that strategies are in place to reinforce security and maintain law and order across the state. The Governor also expressed gratitude to the Federal Government for establishing the National Centre for the Control of Small Arms and Light Weapons. He appreciated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for appointing DIG Johnson Babatunde Kukum, his close associate, as the Director General of the Centre. According to Otti, the appointment is a positive step, and he expressed confidence in Kukum’s ability to deliver excellent results. Familiarization Visit by NCCSALW In his remarks, Captain Chris Anusiem explained that his visit was part of a familiarization tour following his posting to Enugu to head the South East Zonal office of NCCSALW. He praised Governor Otti’s administration for its effective peace-keeping efforts in Abia State. Anusiem further reiterated that the vision of the National Centre is to promote an illicit arms-free society, aligning with global security best practices. According to him, reducing the proliferation of illegal arms is key to ensuring lasting peace and sustainable development in Nigeria. This collaboration between Abia State and the Federal Government represents a critical step in addressing insecurity, fostering community safety, and creating an environment that supports peace and progress.
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The Concerned Christian Youth Forum (CCYF) has issued a strong appeal to the Governor of Niger State, Umar Bago, demanding the immediate withdrawal of a controversial policy that requires preachers to present their sermons to the government for approval before public delivery. In a detailed statement signed by the Convener, James Paul Adama, the CCYF described the law as oppressive, retrogressive, and a direct violation of fundamental human rights. According to the group, such a policy is not only unconstitutional but also dangerous for democracy and peaceful coexistence in the state. The Constitutional and Human Rights Argument The CCYF emphasized that the policy represents a form of religious censorship and violates Sections 38 and 39 of the Nigerian Constitution, which safeguard the rights to freedom of thought, conscience, religion, and expression. The group further highlighted international legal instruments that protect religious freedom, including: These international charters collectively affirm that individuals must have the right to freely practice and express their faith without government interference. Call to Address Poverty and Insecurity Instead The Christian youth body urged the Niger State government to redirect its attention toward addressing the pressing socio-economic challenges plaguing the state. They pointed out that Niger State has one of the highest poverty levels in Nigeria, with more than 64 percent of its population living below the poverty line. Rather than drafting laws that restrict religious expression, the group advised the government to concentrate on: A Stand for Responsible Preaching, Not Censorship The CCYF clarified that it remains firmly opposed to reckless, divisive, or inciteful preaching. However, they maintained that subjecting sermons to government approval is unjustifiable, discriminatory, and a threat to social harmony. They described the law as “obnoxious” and warned that implementing it would undermine religious freedom, further polarize communities, and damage the image of the state. Final Appeal to Governor Bago In conclusion, the Christian youth group urged Governor Umar Bago to reconsider and discard the policy immediately in the spirit of peace, justice, fairness, and adherence to both constitutional and international human rights provisions. They emphasized that good governance should focus on empowering citizens and building stronger institutions, not stifling religious liberty.
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The President of the Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote, has disclosed that truck drivers working for the company are earning salaries far higher than the Nigerian national minimum wage. Speaking during an interview on Arise Television, Dangote highlighted that their drivers not only receive competitive pay but also earn more than many university graduates in the country. He emphasized that joining the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) remains a voluntary choice, stressing that their new transport initiatives are designed to create more opportunities rather than eliminate existing jobs. According to Dangote: “The introduction of our trucks has not taken away anyone’s source of livelihood. There have been speculations about possible job losses, but let’s be clear—our tankers will not be driven by robots. Each truck accommodates around six individuals, which means the new trucks we are rolling out will generate about 24,000 jobs.” He further revealed the incentives provided for drivers, noting that after five years of accident-free service, they qualify to apply for housing loans, adding another layer of benefit to their employment package. Dangote added: “The salaries we pay our drivers are almost three to four times higher than what others in similar roles earn. If you carefully evaluate their monthly income, it is nearly four times the national minimum wage. This puts our drivers ahead of many graduates in terms of financial earnings.” This statement reinforces the Dangote Group’s position on creating sustainable jobs, offering attractive pay structures, and improving employee welfare in Nigeria’s logistics and petroleum distribution sectors.
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Manchester United’s manager, Ruben Amorim, is currently facing one of the toughest challenges of his coaching career, as reports suggest several players are beginning to lose confidence in his leadership. This tension comes in the aftermath of United’s 3-0 defeat to Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium last Sunday, a result that has added enormous pressure on the Portuguese coach. According to a report published by the UK Mirror, the setback has fueled discontent among senior players who are increasingly frustrated with Amorim’s tactical approach. Many members of the dressing room have been left puzzled by his refusal to make necessary adjustments, even when results and performances continue to suffer. Tactical Stubbornness Creating Frustration Ruben Amorim has remained determined to stick to his rigid 3-4-3 formation, regardless of the opposition or current circumstances. His unwillingness to adapt has become a major concern for Manchester United players, many of whom believe the system does not suit their strengths. Some squad members feel that the manager’s tactical stubbornness undermines their ability to perform effectively, as they are consistently asked to fit into a setup they are not naturally comfortable with. As a result, morale within the squad is beginning to dip, raising questions about whether Amorim can still command the full trust of his team. Manchester United’s Struggles This Season The Red Devils have endured a poor start to the season, securing just one victory so far. That lone win came in a narrow 1-0 triumph over Burnley at Old Trafford, with Bruno Fernandes converting a penalty to give his side all three points. Beyond that result, Manchester United have struggled to produce convincing performances, leaving fans concerned about the club’s direction. As the pressure mounts, Ruben Amorim now faces the daunting task of not only fixing his team’s tactical issues but also restoring unity and belief within the squad. The coming weeks may prove decisive in determining whether he remains in charge or if United will be forced to consider alternative managerial options.
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Real Madrid manager, Carlo Ancelotti, has openly admitted that Brazilian youngster Endrick Felipe’s rise at the club has been slowed down due to the strong presence of Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo Goes in the team’s attacking lineup. The Italian tactician explained that although he holds Endrick in high regard both on and off the pitch, competition within an elite team like Real Madrid makes it extremely difficult for young players to break into the starting XI. Endrick’s Limited Opportunities at Real Madrid Despite his massive potential, Endrick was not included in the final rounds of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, even though some key senior players were rested. His last international call-up came in March, highlighting his struggle for consistent minutes at club level. Last season, under Ancelotti’s management, the 19-year-old forward only managed to start three LaLiga matches. This limited game time raised concerns about whether his career growth is being hampered by the stiff competition from established Brazilian stars already excelling at the Santiago Bernabéu. Ancelotti’s Explanation Speaking in an interview with ESPN, Ancelotti reflected on his experience coaching Endrick. “I had the opportunity to train Endrick for a year and I must say I admired him both as a person and a professional,” Ancelotti said. “However, he could not perform to his full potential because Real Madrid already had Vinicius and Rodrygo. At a big club, competition is natural, and while it’s healthy for the team, it can slow down a young player’s development.” The Challenge Ahead for Endrick With Madrid’s attack already stacked with world-class options, Endrick faces the challenge of proving himself in limited opportunities. While competition sharpens talent, the pressure of breaking through in such a star-studded squad will test his patience, resilience, and determination to shine in LaLiga and beyond.
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The 77th Primetime Emmy Awards 2025 delivered history-making moments, unforgettable performances, and record-breaking wins. Among the top highlights, Netflix’s British drama Adolescence, the American hit The Pitt, and the groundbreaking comedy The Studio emerged as the night’s biggest winners. LMSINT MEDIA reports that the prestigious ceremony took place on Sunday at the iconic Peacock Theatre in Downtown Los Angeles, California, with comedian Nate Bargatze serving as the evening’s host. The Emmy spotlight shone brightly on The Studio, which not only secured the Outstanding Comedy Series award but also set a new milestone by winning 13 trophies, the most ever achieved by a comedy in a single season. On the drama side, The Pitt claimed the award for Outstanding Drama Series, while Netflix’s Adolescence dominated the Limited Series/TV Movie category, further establishing the global influence of streaming platforms. One of the most historic moments of the night came when Owen Cooper, a 15-year-old rising star from Adolescence, became the youngest male winner in Emmy history, proving that young talent is reshaping Hollywood. Full List of 2025 Emmy Awards Winners Outstanding Drama Series Outstanding Comedy Series Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series Outstanding Lead Actor in a Limited Series or TV Movie Outstanding Lead Actress in a Limited Series or TV Movie Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Limited Series or TV Movie Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Limited Series or TV Movie Outstanding Reality/Competition Series Outstanding Talk Series Outstanding Variety Special (Live) Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series Outstanding Guest Actress in a Comedy Series Outstanding Guest Actor in a Drama Series Outstanding Guest Actress in a Drama Series Final Thoughts The 2025 Emmy Awards reinforced the dominance of streaming giants and the rise of fresh talent, while The Studio set a comedy benchmark with its record-breaking 13 wins. With The Pitt leading drama and Adolescence defining the limited series category, the future of television storytelling continues to evolve with bold creativity. For more coverage of global entertainment, visit our entertainment news section.
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Authorities in Libya have relocated 18 undocumented Nigerian migrants from the Sirte Immigration Detention Center to Sabha, a city in the southern part of the country, as part of preparations for their eventual repatriation. The humanitarian monitoring organization Migrant Rescue Watch confirmed this development in a statement released on Monday. The group explained that the transfer was carried out under the oversight of the Libyan Department for Combating Illegal Migration (DCIM), which coordinated the movement of the migrants. According to the report, the migrants were transported by road in a security-escorted convoy, highlighting Libya’s ongoing strategy to handle the repatriation of foreign nationals without legal documentation. Migration Challenges in Libya Libya continues to serve as a central departure point for thousands of migrants attempting to cross the Mediterranean Sea into Europe. This persists despite the country’s prolonged instability and ongoing conflicts. The detention centers in Libya are often overcrowded, with undocumented migrants awaiting deportation or repatriation. Conditions in these facilities have drawn global attention due to concerns about humanitarian treatment. International Efforts on Repatriation In response to the migration crisis, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) has been working with Libyan authorities for several years to implement voluntary repatriation programs. Through these initiatives, migrants are given the opportunity to return to their home countries in a safer and more organized manner. For many Nigerian migrants, repatriation offers a chance to restart their lives and escape the harsh realities of Libya’s detention system. This latest transfer from Sirte to Sabha represents one more step in the ongoing process of managing migration and ensuring safe returns.
