Stakeholders Reject Proposed Salary Increase for Tinubu, Governors, Ministers | NLC, Atiku, Akpan Speak Out

A wave of concern has arisen following plans to raise salaries for President Bola Tinubu, governors, ministers, and other officials. The Revenue Mobilisation, Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) indicated last Monday that they intend to boost the remuneration of these officeholders. Chairman Mohammed Shehu, speaking in Abuja, condemned the current earnings for being too low, unreasonable, and outdated. He noted that President Tinubu earns ₦1.5 million monthly, while ministers make under ₦1 million—figures unchanged since 2008. He remarked that paying the president so little in light of the nation’s over 200 million citizens is borderline laughable. Although RMAFC clarified that it does not set minimum wages for public sector employees, it is constitutionally tasked with determining remuneration for political, judicial, and legislative roles. The proposal triggered swift backlash. Critics slammed the timing—amid widespread economic hardship—and dismissed the proposal as tone-deaf, calling for its immediate suspension. In an interview with LMSINT MEDIA, the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, and human rights lawyer Nkereuwem Akpan called on RMAFC to halt the plan. NLC Speaks Out Benson Upah, NLC spokesman, expressed outrage and labeled the recommendation “insensitive, unjust, and inequitable.” He argued it would worsen inequality between civil servants and political office holders, entrenching poverty. He demanded transparency: current earnings, the benchmark for the review, and a total suspension of the exercise before it ignites public uproar. Atiku Weighs In Atiku’s spokesperson, Paul Ibe, asserted that the plan shows an administration bent on serving its own interests, not Nigerians. He criticized the use of borrowed funds for the raise, highlighting the growing debt burden on the children of today. He noted that the current minimum wage doesn’t suffice for basic essentials like school fees or rice, yet the administration seems determined to increase politicians’ pay—calling it insensitive and unjust. Lawyer Akpan’s Critique Constitutional lawyer Nkereuwem Udofia Akpan urged a cutback on lavish allowances for lawmakers—highlighting the drain on the economy from vehicle, housing, furniture, constituency project, and entertainment expenses. He questioned why someone of Tinubu’s wealth—former senator and two-term governor—would want more. He emphasized that the issue is not salary alone but the wider perks and corruption fueling wealth accumulation. He’d rather see fair official pay than enrich officials through dubious contracts or oil deals.

Rhapsody of Realities August 24th 2025, PRAYING WITH GROANINGS AND DEEP SIGHS

Pastor Chris Oyakhilome DSc DSc DD Likewise THE SPIRIT ALSO HELPETH OUR INFIRMITIES: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered (Romans 8:26). When we speak in tongues, we do so by faith. We open our mouths and the Holy Spirit gives us utterance. Here, your spirit is praying in tongues. The Bible says, “For if I pray in an unknown tongue, my spirit prayeth, but my understanding is unfruitful” (1 Corinthians 14:14). So, it’s your spirit that prays in tongues even though the utterance is granted to your spirit by the Holy Spirit. But there’s another one that’s a higher level of prayer. That’s what is written for us in Romans 8:26 which we read as our opening scripture. The underlined phrase “…the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities…” tells us how the Spirit helps and takes hold together with us in our weakness. He props you up and helps you pray in line with the perfect will of God especially when you face dire situations and are at your wit’s end. He takes over and helps you pray correctly. The AMPC puts it beautifully. It says, “So too the [Holy] Spirit comes to our aid and bears us up in our weakness; for we do not know what prayer to offer nor how to offer it worthily as we ought, but the Spirit Himself goes to meet our supplication and pleads in our behalf with unspeakable yearnings and groanings too deep for utterance.” At this higher level of prayer, the Holy Spirit Himself has taken over, making intercessions with groanings and deep sighs according to the will of God. You may find yourself crying uncontrollably but not out of pain; keep at it and don’t be troubled. It’s the Holy Spirit praying through you. This is the most effective kind of prayer, and it’s the Spirit’s joy to make it happen for you. So, each time you pray, yield yourself to the Holy Spirit to pray through you, and you’ll be amazed at the impact and the tremendous results in your life and circumstances. Hallelujah! PRAYERDear Father, thank you for the ministry of the Holy Spirit who helps me in prayer. I yield myself completely to Him to intercede through me with groanings and deep sighs, causing your perfect will to be established in my life and in the lives of others. I walk in the light of your Word, always led by the Spirit, in Jesus’ Name. Amen. FURTHER STUDY‭‭1 Corinthians 14:14 AMPCFor if I pray in an [unknown] tongue, my spirit [by the Holy Spirit within me] prays, but my mind is unproductive [it bears no fruit and helps nobody]. ‭‭Jude 1:20 KJVBut ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost, ‭‭John 14:16-17 KJVAnd I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; 17 [Even] the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you. DAILY SCRIPTURE READING1-Year Bible Reading Plan1 Corinthians 9 & Psalms 128-134 2-Year Bible Reading PlanLuke 18:28-34 & 1 Samuel 11-12 DAILY AFFIRMATIONS: I am loaded with good things, and my life is like a city set on a hill that can not be hidden. I am visible and well-positioned. This year, the Spirit of God is magnifying my voice around the nations of the world. I can never be small because the anointing of God’s Spirit has set me apart for greatness, causing me to spread and make progress on every side. Poverty isn’t a part of my life, for I’m an heir of God; therefore, the silver is mine, and the gold is mine; the world belongs to me. 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. My strength is renewed daily, and I’m divinely energized at all times for victory. I have sound knowledge and understanding. I have strength, might, and power. I speak excellent and princely things. I have an understanding heart. The opening of my lips are for right things. My words are all righteous. I speak the truth always. God has given me wisdom. There is nothing beyond me. There is nothing I cannot handle. I have a wise and discerning heart. Christ is my excellent wisdom. Nothing and no one can hurt or come against me successfully, for I have the unconquerable life of God. Satan and the powers of darkness are under my feet; therefore, I have nothing to fear. The impulses of fear have been completely disabled from my life. Irrespective of the situation, I’m bold and courageous, speaking the Word in faith. There is an overflow, a bursting forth of finances in my life. My money is abundant. My blessings, possessions and everything about me are abundant. I am secure from the plagues in the world. I live in supernatural divine perfect health and peace. Sickness will not devour my body or my money. Mishaps, misfortunes, accidents, mistakes, calamities and tragedies cannot devour my money. Disasters and catastrophes cannot afflict me. I have blessings, favour, peace, calmness, joy and delight everywhere. I have access to the inexhaustible, boundless, and unsearchable riches of Christ. My resources are multiplied. I am enriched in all things. I am rich in money, favour, ideas, supply, and material resources. I am rich in all things. Everything I require for the abundant life in Christ is available to me in the mighty name of Jesus Christ. Amen. Speak in tongues.

Transfer Update: AS Roma Target Chelsea’s Tyrique George as Potential Replacement for Jadon Sancho

AS Roma are reportedly setting their sights on Chelsea’s promising winger, Tyrique George, as a possible replacement for Manchester United’s Jadon Sancho, whose future with the Italian club appears uncertain. According to reliable football journalist Fabrizio Romano, the Serie A side has already inquired about the specific terms and conditions of a potential deal for George. This move underlines Roma’s strategy to strengthen their attacking options on the left flank. George, who has been showing great promise at Stamford Bridge, has now emerged as one of the serious candidates on Roma’s shortlist. If Jadon Sancho continues to resist a move to Italy, George is viewed as a viable solution to fill that attacking gap. The young Chelsea winger, however, is not only attracting interest from Roma. Reports suggest that RB Leipzig and several other Premier League clubs remain highly interested in securing his services. His performances and potential have made him one of the rising prospects in European football. Meanwhile, in an update concerning Sancho, Roma’s sporting director, Frederic Massara, clarified the club’s position after the English winger rejected their approach a few days ago. Massara stated: “There are no conditions to proceed with this deal, especially as Sancho doesn’t have the motivations to join AS Roma.” With Sancho unwilling to make the switch to Serie A, Roma appear ready to shift focus toward young talents like George, who could offer fresh energy and long-term value to their squad.

BBNaija Season 10: Tracy Accuses Kulture of Inappropriate Touching at Night

Big Brother Naija Season 10 has once again been hit with controversy after housemate Tracy alleged that fellow contestant Kulture touched her inappropriately during the night. Tracy made this revelation during a private conversation with fellow housemate Zita on Saturday. She narrated how Kulture allegedly attempted to cross boundaries while she was resting, insisting that she had to stop him from going further. According to Tracy, Kulture initially moved close to her bed and tried to get her attention, urging her to also move closer. She explained that the situation became uncomfortable when he allegedly attempted to touch her inappropriately. “He [Kulture] puts his hand on my bed and moved closer and was telling me to also come closer to him. In my head, I was like, come and do what? The next thing, he puts his hands inside my bracket and wanted to touch me,” she recounted. Tracy revealed that she immediately cautioned him and made it clear that she did not want to be touched. She also explained that although Kulture tried to hush her, warning her not to raise her voice so the other housemates wouldn’t notice, she insisted on standing her ground. “I told him, ‘Don’t touch me.’ He said, ‘You’ve shouted, everybody will hear you.’ I replied, ‘Yes, let them hear. I don’t want you to touch me.’ I told him to move because I was not comfortable with him beside me. Then eventually, he left,” Tracy narrated. This latest allegation has stirred conversations among viewers, with many drawing parallels to past incidents on the reality show. LMSINT MEDIA recalls that in 2017, BBNaija housemate Kemen was disqualified for allegedly touching TBoss inappropriately without her consent, a scandal that remains one of the most controversial moments in the show’s history. With Tracy’s claims, conversations about consent, boundaries, and respect in the BBNaija house are once again dominating online discussions. Viewers now wait to see how Big Brother will handle the situation and whether Kulture will face any consequences.

Ayra Starr Declares She Has Nothing to Prove Anymore

Nigerian Afropop sensation Oyinkansola Sarah Aderibigbe, popularly known as Ayra Starr, has boldly stated that she no longer feels the pressure to prove herself to anyone within the music industry. The Grammy-nominated star, often called the Sabi Girl, revealed that her growth as an artist and individual has placed her in a new state of confidence where the only person she now seeks validation from is herself. Speaking during an exclusive conversation with BBC Radio 1Xtra in London, Ayra Starr shared how this new mindset has shaped the type of music she creates and how it influences her overall artistry. According to the “Hot Body” hitmaker, she feels more self-assured than ever and no longer carries the burden of meeting external expectations. “I’m in a very comfortable place where I don’t see the need to prove myself to anybody other than myself,” she stated. Ayra Starr further explained that her latest release, Hot Body, was inspired by her personal growth and the mental clarity she currently enjoys. She emphasized that the track was not just put out for commercial appeal, but because it reflects how she feels within this phase of her life. “I released my song Hot Body because I feel like this is the right time. I’m in the right headspace. I feel good. Right now, my body is better than I have ever felt,” she said. The 21-year-old singer highlighted that the song carries a deeper message than just rhythm and beats. For her, it is an expression of confidence, freedom, and self-love. “I didn’t just release it because it sounds good. Look what the hot body can do, that’s exactly how I feel,” she added. With this revelation, Ayra Starr has once again proven her ability to balance creativity with authenticity, further cementing her place among Nigeria’s leading female musicians making waves internationally.

BBNaija Koyin: Wealthy Admirer Offered to Pay His Bride Price

Koyin, a housemate in the Big Brother Naija reality show, revealed that a wealthy woman once offered to pay his bride price herself. He shared this anecdote during a chat with Big Soso after the Saturday night Turnup, clarifying the nature of his relationship with Dede. He made it clear to Soso that what he has with Dede is strictly platonic. He confidently stated that attracting women, including celebrities, isn’t a challenge for him—calling himself a “hot boy” who knows many women are eager for his attention. “Me and Dede, we are just friends; I have no romantic interest in her. We’re just enjoying each other’s company,” he explained. His self-assuredness continued: “If I wanted her, I’d have gotten her. I’m a hot boy—I know how many women, even celebrities, are dying for me outside.” He then recounted the surprising gesture from an affluent admirer: “There was a very rich lady—with a Tesla Cybertruck—who said I shouldn’t worry about money for her bride price,” said the 22-year-old model.

EPL: Arteta Shares Injury Concerns on Saka and Ødegaard After Leeds Defeat

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has voiced serious concern regarding the injuries sustained by captain Martin Ødegaard and forward Bukayo Saka during their emphatic 5-0 victory over Leeds United in the Premier League on Saturday. The win, which further strengthened Arsenal’s position in the title race, came at a heavy cost as two of their most influential players were forced off with injuries. Ødegaard injury scare Martin Ødegaard, who has been pivotal in Arsenal’s midfield throughout the season, appeared to suffer a shoulder problem in the opening half. The Norwegian international was substituted and replaced by young academy talent Ethan Nwaneri, leaving fans anxious about the extent of the injury. Speaking after the match, Arteta confirmed: “We have already missed Kai Havertz this week, and then with Martin, it looks like a shoulder injury. At this stage, we don’t know how serious it is.” Ødegaard’s creativity and leadership have been central to Arsenal’s recent run of form, making his potential absence a major setback. Saka withdrawn with hamstring concern Bukayo Saka, who scored Arsenal’s second goal of the afternoon, was also unable to complete the match. The England international was substituted in the second half for Leandro Trossard after feeling discomfort. Arteta explained the situation: “With Bukayo, while he was running and wrestling with a defender, he felt something in his hamstring. We will have to assess it further, but I am quite concerned about that.” Saka has been Arsenal’s most consistent attacker this season, and his hamstring concern comes at a crucial stage of the campaign. Tough challenge ahead for Arsenal The injuries to Ødegaard and Saka follow the absence of Kai Havertz, who also missed the Leeds game. With such key players facing doubts, Arteta’s squad depth could be tested in the coming weeks. Arsenal’s next Premier League clash is against Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday, a fixture that could play a decisive role in the title race. Facing Jürgen Klopp’s side without two of their biggest stars would represent a significant challenge for the Gunners. Arsenal fans will now be anxiously waiting for medical updates ahead of what promises to be one of the season’s most important games.

EPL: Leeds Boss Daniel Farke Explains Heavy 5-0 Defeat to Arsenal

Leeds United manager, Daniel Farke, has openly admitted that his side had no real chance against Arsenal following their heavy 5-0 defeat at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday in the English Premier League. The victory gave Arsenal their second consecutive win of the season as they completely dominated the newly-promoted side from start to finish. The goals started flowing early, with Jurrien Timber converting Declan Rice’s corner with a well-placed header. Soon after, Bukayo Saka doubled the advantage, smashing home a first-time finish with his right foot to put the Gunners firmly in control. In the second half, new signing Viktor Gyökeres announced himself with his first Arsenal goal, finishing off a powerful solo run that left the Leeds defense helpless. Timber then grabbed his second of the match, again from a set piece, before Gyökeres capped the day with a calmly taken penalty after Max Dowman was fouled inside the box. Speaking after the game in an interview with Sky Sports, Farke admitted the task was always going to be difficult for his team, especially in the absence of club captain Ethan Ampadu, who missed the clash. “It was always a difficult assignment for us, particularly coming here without our most important player, Ethan Ampadu,” Farke explained. “You always hope to face Arsenal after a long European night, not in their first home game of the season when they are full of energy and confidence from beating Manchester United away.” The Leeds boss also noted that the atmosphere worked in Arsenal’s favor. With the Emirates crowd buzzing as the Gunners paraded their new signings before kickoff, Arsenal’s momentum was unstoppable. Farke reflected on his side’s missed opportunity through Pascal Struijk, who saw his header brilliantly saved by the Arsenal goalkeeper. However, the German coach admitted that his side paid the price for defensive lapses and Arsenal’s clinical finishing. “It was frustrating to concede from a set piece, and we underestimated their counter-pressing. The second goal came from a tight angle, but they punished us. In the second half, Arsenal had five shots on target and scored all five. That level of efficiency is tough to compete with,” Farke concluded. “In the end, Arsenal were the better side and fully deserved the win.”

Arsenal Thrash Leeds 5-0 to Top Premier League after Eberechi Eze Boost

Arsenal have surged to the summit of the Premier League after an emphatic 5-0 triumph over Leeds United. Ahead of kick-off, the club delighted fans by unveiling the high-profile signing of Eberechi Eze—an academy graduate returning triumphantly to the Emirates Stadium to a heartfelt ovation. From the first whistle, Arsenal looked lively and had built a two-goal advantage by half-time. Jurrien Timber opened the scoring with a precise header from Declan Rice’s corner. Moments later, Bukayo Saka doubled the lead with a crisp one-touch finish inside the box. After the break, Viktor Gyökeres broke his scoring drought with a powerful solo strike, making a statement in his debut season. Timber nodded home again at another corner, maintaining Arsenal’s dominance. The scoring wrapped up late on when a foul on 15-year-old Max Dowman earned a penalty, which Gyökeres calmly converted. Mikel Arteta’s side have now recorded back-to-back league wins, netting six goals without conceding—a statement of intent ahead of tougher fixtures.

EPL: Arteta Praises Five Arsenal Stars After Dominant 5-0 Victory Over Leeds

Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta has heaped praise on five standout players after the Gunners cruised to a 5-0 Premier League victory against Leeds United on Saturday. Summer signing Viktor Gyökeres stole the headlines by netting twice—scoring in both halves to register his first goals in an Arsenal shirt. His clinical finishing not only secured the three points but also propelled the North London side to the top of the league table. In addition to Gyökeres’ brace, returning defender Jurrien Timber made a remarkable comeback after recovering from long-term injury surgery. Timber impressed at both ends of the pitch, scoring two goals from set-piece situations, proving his importance to the squad’s depth and resilience. The game also marked a memorable day for the club’s academy graduates. Cristhian Mosquera was handed his Arsenal debut, showcasing composure and confidence on the big stage. Similarly, highly-rated youngster Max Dowman, just 15 years old, made his first senior appearance for the Gunners. Dowman’s energy and influence off the bench highlighted his enormous potential for the future. Speaking to BBC Match of the Day, Arteta described the occasion as filled with positives: “There were many highlights: Viktor [Gyökeres] scoring his first two goals, Jurrien [Timber] finding the net twice after such a long injury absence, Cristhian [Mosquera] making his debut for the club, and of course, the debut of Max [Dowman] at just 15, along with the immediate impact he made on the match.” The convincing win underlined Arsenal’s growing squad depth, with both senior players and emerging youngsters contributing to a performance that delighted the Emirates crowd.

Wizkid Crowned King of Afrobeats by Ayra Starr

Popular Nigerian singer and songwriter Ayra Starr has openly crowned her Grammy-winning colleague Wizkid as the undisputed king of Afrobeats. According to a report by LMSINT MEDIA, conversations around the dominance of Nigeria’s Afrobeats superstars — Wizkid, Davido, and Burna Boy — popularly tagged as the “Big 3”, have continued to trend within the global music community. Fans and critics often compare their contributions, arguing over who holds the crown of modern Afrobeats. However, in a recent interview with Complex, Ayra Starr confidently declared that the throne belongs to Wizkid. The Mavin Records star explained her decision to feature the Starboy Entertainment boss on her chart-topping song “Gimme Dat.” According to her, no other artiste could deliver the level of smoothness, charisma, and originality that Wizkid brings to Afrobeats. “Nobody else could have been right on that song [‘Gimme Dat’] aside from Wizkid. Even just his sonics and the sound, the chorus pattern feels very Wizkid; it feels very like sexy Afrobeats. And everybody knows Wizkid is the king of sexy Afrobeats,” Ayra Starr said during the interview. Her remarks have further fueled ongoing discussions within the music industry about the impact of Wizkid’s artistry, especially as he continues to influence global music culture with his unique sound.

Mercy Eke Reportedly Demands N100 Million to Appear in BBNaija All-Stars Reunion

Former Big Brother Naija (BBNaija) housemate and reality star, Mercy Eke, has reportedly demanded ₦100 million as an appearance fee if the organisers of the popular reality TV show decide to hold a BBNaija All-Stars Reunion. Mercy, who emerged as the runner-up to Ilebaye, the winner of the 2023 All-Stars season, made her stance clear after responding to an X (formerly Twitter) post by fellow ex-housemate, Tolani Baj. According to LMSINT MEDIA, the organisers of Big Brother Naija have yet to confirm whether a reunion for the All-Stars edition will take place. This comes as a surprise to many viewers, considering that a reunion was quickly organised for the following season tagged No Loose Guard. Mercy Eke’s Reaction to Reunion Speculation Tolani Baj had earlier posted on X that if the organisers hosted an All-Stars reunion, it “would have been the messiest yet most entertaining reunion in history.” In response, Mercy Eke agreed, but she emphasised that such a reunion should not be taken lightly. She declared that her participation would only come with a ₦100 million appearance fee, highlighting that the reunion would reach an international standard if done properly. Her exact words read: “I’m so ready, just 100M. Our reunion is going to be on an international level. No side talks, no pity games, no fake tears. Just boss babes and wealthy gents having real grown-up conversations.” Will There Be a BBNaija All-Stars Reunion? So far, there is no official confirmation from the show’s organisers on whether the All-Stars reunion will hold. Fans have continued to speculate, with some hoping that if approved, it will deliver the kind of entertainment and drama that BBNaija reunions are famously known for. The reality show is currently airing its 10th edition, themed “10/10,” which has been generating attention nationwide. Whether or not the All-Stars reunion eventually takes place, Mercy’s bold demand has already sparked conversations about the value and influence of BBNaija housemates in Nigeria’s entertainment industry.

Tragedy in Kaduna: 16-Year-Old Brilliant Student Swept Away by Flood While Rushing to Check SSCE Result

A heart-wrenching tragedy struck the community of Samaru in Zaria, Kaduna State, as a young and promising student, Miss Praise Malachi, lost her life to devastating floodwaters. Praise, a 16-year-old final-year student of Government Day Secondary School, was reportedly swept away while hurrying home to confirm her outstanding performance in the recently released Senior Secondary Certificate Examination (SSCE). How the Incident Happened According to eyewitness accounts, the brilliant teenager had just received exciting news from her classmates that she passed her SSCE exams with excellent results. Around 6:00 pm after a heavy rainfall, her friends visited her father’s shop to share the good news. Overjoyed, Praise rushed home to check the result online using her mobile phone. Unfortunately, on her way home, she attempted to cross a swollen stream formed by severe erosion and flooding in the area. In that moment, she slipped, fell into the current, and was carried away by the raging floodwaters. Her father, Mr. Emmanuel Malachi, narrated in grief: “After hearing the good news, Praise rushed home to check her results on her phone. While crossing the river caused by erosion, she slipped, fell into it, and was taken away by the flood. Her body was later recovered the next day in Hunkuyi, Kudan Local Government Area.” Community Reactions and Environmental Concerns Neighbours of the deceased, Danladi Mudi and Emma Yashi, confirmed that the erosion in Samaru has long been a serious environmental challenge. They noted that several residents have previously lost their lives during the rainy season due to unchecked flooding. Yashi added with concern: “Praise was not the only child who died in the flood. Many lives have been claimed in the past, yet no concrete solution has been provided.” Scholarship and Recognition of Her Excellence Before her untimely passing, Praise had been recognized for her outstanding academic achievements. She was awarded a scholarship by the Centre for Girls’ Education (CGE), Zaria, to further her education due to her brilliance and dedication to learning. The Director of the Centre, Mrs. Habiba Mohammed, described Praise as one of the institution’s most promising students. She expressed shock and sorrow, saying: “We are all grieving over this sad loss. Praise was a wonderful child who never engaged in any negative behaviour. She had already secured a scholarship because of her excellent performance. It is heartbreaking to lose her in such a way.” Call for Urgent Government Action Mrs. Mohammed appealed to government authorities and relevant agencies to urgently address the erosion crisis in Samaru. She stressed the need for constructing a proper bridge and drainage system to prevent future tragedies. “I appeal to the relevant authorities to intervene quickly by fixing the erosion problem and building a safe bridge on the road to save lives,” she added. The tragic loss of Praise has left her family, schoolmates, and the entire Zaria community in deep mourning. Her story is a painful reminder of how poor infrastructure and environmental neglect continue to put lives at risk, particularly during heavy rainfall in vulnerable communities across Nigeria.