Fresh divisions have surfaced within the Nasarawa State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) following the public declaration of Senator Ahmed Aliyu Wadada as the preferred successor to Governor Abdullahi Sule ahead of the 2027 governorship election. What initially appeared to be a routine political alignment has instead ignited visible disagreement and quiet rivalry among influential figures within the ruling party, as preparations gradually begin for the 2027 general elections. It will be recalled that Governor Sule, during a public event last Thursday, openly identified Wadada—who represents Nasarawa West Senatorial District—as his favored candidate for the upcoming gubernatorial contest. The governor described the senator as a true reflection of the “Muje Maha” philosophy, a principle that has shaped his administration’s governance style, emphasizing inclusiveness and unity. Speaking at the endorsement event, Sule stated that leadership selection must prioritize candidates with strong electoral viability. He stressed that if party members genuinely believe in the “Muje Maha” principle, then the current moment signals that Wadada embodies that vision. Despite this justification, the announcement has not been widely accepted among key party stakeholders. Several senior members have expressed concern that the endorsement was made prematurely, without sufficient consultation or adherence to established party procedures. Among the most vocal critics is former governor Umaru Tanko Al-Makura, a significant political figure within the state. He questioned both the timing and the manner in which the endorsement was executed. Al-Makura revealed that he was neither informed nor involved before Wadada was presented at the Presidential Villa to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He described the move as irregular and rushed, especially at a time when the party has yet to release official guidelines for the primary process. While acknowledging the governor’s constitutional right to support any aspirant, he emphasized the importance of due process, inclusivity, and stakeholder engagement in maintaining party stability. In response, Governor Sule dismissed allegations of impropriety, insisting that his actions were consistent with longstanding political traditions in the state. Through his media aide, he characterized the endorsement as a product of deliberate and strategic leadership rather than an attempt to impose a candidate. The governor also defended his decision to present Wadada to President Tinubu, noting that keeping the party’s national leadership informed is both appropriate and necessary. Meanwhile, former Inspector General of Police Abubakar Adamu, who is also a governorship aspirant under the APC platform, has distanced himself from the endorsement. He clarified that the declaration does not equate to an electoral victory and affirmed his intention to contest the election. Adamu and other aspirants remain active in the race, even as Governor Sule continues to advocate for zoning the governorship position to Nasarawa West in the interest of fairness and balance. Amid the growing controversy, the Majority Caucus of the Nasarawa State House of Assembly, led by Speaker Danladi Jatau, has declared support for Wadada. The lawmakers pledged loyalty to both the party and the governor’s decision, urging other aspirants to unite behind the endorsed candidate for the sake of cohesion. Beyond procedural concerns, questions have also been raised regarding Wadada’s preparedness for leadership. Political analyst Charles Agum criticized the senator’s recent media engagements, suggesting that they lacked depth and were overly focused on criticizing rivals rather than presenting policy-driven solutions. Reports indicate that some aspirants feel marginalized by the early endorsement, while others are considering stronger opposition during the party’s primary elections. Douglas Otaru, a former APC Publicity Secretary in the state, warned that the governor’s approach could negatively impact the party’s prospects. He argued that prolonged lack of internal coordination allowed opportunistic elements to exploit the situation, potentially misleading the governor. Otaru further suggested that endorsing a close associate may compromise the governor’s neutrality in overseeing a transparent primary process. He advised that stepping aside could help ensure credibility and fairness. In addition to procedural disputes, the situation has revived longstanding debates about zoning and power rotation in Nasarawa State. Since the return to democratic rule in 1999, the governorship position has rotated among the three senatorial districts. Stakeholders note that Nasarawa South has held power for a longer duration, producing leaders such as Umaru Tanko Al-Makura and the late Aliyu Akwe Doma, whose combined tenure spans twelve years. Some political actors argue that Nasarawa South should be allowed to complete what they describe as an unfinished tenure cycle. However, this perspective is being challenged by a coalition of religious, political, and indigenous groups. The coalition insists that fairness should extend beyond senatorial zoning to include federal constituencies that have yet to produce a governor. They oppose the emergence of a candidate from the Keffi axis, citing previous leadership from that bloc. In a joint statement led by Alhaji Ali Baba Nasarawa and Mallam Abdulrahman Sani Toto, the group highlighted that the Nasarawa/Toto Federal Constituency remains the only area yet to produce a governor since the state’s creation. They argued that returning the governorship ticket to a previously represented constituency would undermine principles of fairness and inclusion. The coalition also accused Governor Sule of deviating from the zoning framework he previously supported, warning that such actions could deepen divisions and weaken party unity ahead of the 2027 elections. They concluded by calling for a transparent, inclusive, and consultative process, emphasizing that any perception of imposed candidacy could have significant political consequences.
Former governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State, Tonye Cole, has stated that it is natural for political parties to attempt to weaken their rivals, regardless of their affiliation. He made this known on Monday while speaking as a guest during an interview on Prime Time, a program aired on Arise Television. His remarks were in response to ongoing political dynamics involving the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the African Democratic Congress (ADC). According to Cole, the effort by political parties to weaken their opposition is not unusual and reflects a global political pattern rather than a localized phenomenon. He explained that every political organization, whether in Nigeria or elsewhere, naturally adopts strategies aimed at limiting the influence and effectiveness of opposing groups. However, he emphasized that the true strength of a democratic system lies in how the opposition reacts to such pressure. Cole further highlighted that democracy fundamentally depends on the presence of a vibrant and resilient opposition. When opposition parties are strong and well-organized, they contribute significantly to the credibility and legitimacy of the democratic process. He noted that current political developments suggest a growing determination among opposition groups to unite and strengthen their position. In his view, such collaboration is beneficial for democratic growth and stability. At the same time, he acknowledged that the ruling party would understandably resist any alliance that could threaten its dominance. This, he implied, is part of the natural competitive structure of politics. Cole also expressed his belief in the value of competition, stating that it drives improvement and strategic thinking. According to him, competition encourages political actors to evaluate their weaknesses and build on their strengths, ultimately leading to better governance outcomes. He concluded by reiterating that political rivalry, when managed within democratic principles, plays a crucial role in shaping effective leadership and accountability.
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Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has ordered the regularization of casual workers at the Osun State University Teaching Hospital (UNIOSUNTH), Osogbo, converting them into permanent staff after many years of service. This decision was announced on Monday during the governor’s official visit to the medical facility. According to a statement issued by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, the affected employees had been working under casual arrangements for approximately 12 years before the directive was given. While addressing the workforce, the governor spoke about the financial challenges facing the state, attributing them to certain individuals he accused of fueling instability within local government areas. He alleged that such actions were intended to slow down the state’s development. Despite these obstacles, Adeleke emphasized that progress in Osun State has continued steadily. He noted that developmental projects remain on track and that his administration is committed to ensuring sustained growth across various sectors. He further reassured the workers and the general public that his government would remain focused on delivering effective governance. According to him, the administration’s resilience is rooted in the support of the people and a determination to improve living standards across the state. Reaffirming his commitment, the governor stated that his leadership would not be distracted by challenges, adding that efforts to provide meaningful benefits to citizens would continue without interruption. In confirming the employment upgrade, Rasheed highlighted that the affected staff had spent over a decade in temporary roles, making the decision a significant milestone for worker welfare within the institution. Reacting to the development, the hospital’s labour leader, Olamide Faniran, expressed appreciation for the governor’s worker-friendly approach. He acknowledged the administration’s efforts in supporting Osun State employees and improving their conditions of service. Faniran also pledged continued backing for the government, noting that workers have recognized the administration’s sacrifices and contributions toward enhancing the quality of life in the state.
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Nigeria’s current security situation has drawn strong criticism from Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Senator, Ireti Kingibe, who expressed deep concern over the worsening conditions affecting citizens across the nation. During a televised appearance on Arise Television’s Prime Time program on Monday, the senator highlighted that the country is experiencing unprecedented levels of insecurity, alongside a severe surge in food-related challenges. According to her, the hardship Nigerians are currently facing has reached an alarming peak. She emphasized that the increasing instability is not limited to physical safety alone but extends into economic and social aspects of everyday life. Food scarcity, she noted, has become more intense than ever before, making survival increasingly difficult for many households. In her remarks, Kingibe also acknowledged the growing formation of opposition alliances, stating that she finds it encouraging when such collaborations are driven by genuine national interest rather than personal or political gain. Reflecting on the broader situation, she explained that the average Nigerian is battling multiple layers of hardship simultaneously. From rising insecurity to escalating food costs and increasing taxation, daily living has become significantly more difficult. She pointed out that the burden of taxes continues to grow, with more financial demands being introduced despite the already strained economic conditions. This, she suggested, adds further pressure on citizens who are already struggling to cope. Additionally, she referenced the declining quality of essential services, including communication and electricity. Even basic activities, such as making phone calls, have become frustrating due to poor connectivity, symbolizing a wider systemic breakdown. Kingibe stressed that the challenges facing the nation go beyond political ambitions or power struggles. Instead, they reflect a deeper crisis affecting the well-being of the population. According to her, many Nigerians are overwhelmed and fatigued from the constant effort required just to meet basic daily needs. Ultimately, her message underscores a growing sense of exhaustion among citizens, driven by the combination of insecurity, economic strain, and declining infrastructure. The situation, as she described it, paints a picture of a country under significant pressure, where urgent attention and meaningful solutions are needed
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Singapore has emerged as the undisputed leader in Southeast Asia when it comes to ultra-high-net-worth (UHNW) individuals. The city-state is home to a remarkable 7,171 UHNW individuals, each possessing a wealth of at least US$30 million, according to The Wealth Report 2026, a publication by property consultancy Knight Frank. This impressive number marks a significant 54.5% increase over the past five years, and projections suggest that by 2031, Singapore’s UHNW population will grow even further, reaching 10,497 individuals. The report, now in its 20th year, offers a detailed analysis of global trends in wealth, luxury, real estate, and investment. Southeast Asia’s Emerging Wealth Hub Among Southeast Asia’s six major economies, Indonesia ranks second in terms of UHNW population, with 3,833 individuals, a rise of 36.6% since 2021. Thailand follows closely with 2,853 UHNW individuals, while the Philippines has 1,910, Malaysia 1,566, and Vietnam 1,233. Galven Tan, CEO of Knight Frank Singapore, explains that the city-state’s attractive combination of proximity to growth markets like Indonesia, Vietnam, and India, with minimal exposure to jurisdictional risks, positions it as an ideal hub for wealth accumulation. As Tan notes, Singapore allows investment teams to manage assets within a stable, neutral base while tapping into dynamic emerging markets in the region. Despite the growth, there are challenges. The report highlights limited land availability, high living costs, and increasingly stringent regulations as factors that are dampening Singapore’s pace of growth. Rising Wealth in the Asia-Pacific Region The surge in UHNW individuals in Singapore is part of a larger trend across the Asia-Pacific region, which now boasts 219,310 UHNW individuals, making up over 30% of the global total. Southeast Asia, in particular, is quickly becoming a prominent hub for the creation of new wealth. Indonesia, in particular, is expected to experience the highest growth globally in UHNW population over the next five years, with projections estimating an 81.7% rise to 6,966 UHNW individuals by 2031. Similarly, Singapore, Vietnam, and the Philippines are all expected to feature among the global top 10 for growth rates in UHNW populations during this period. Singapore’s Continued Wealth Dominance When compared to its wealth rival, Hong Kong, Singapore remains in a commanding position. Hong Kong is home to 6,788 UHNW individuals, a slight 3.3% decrease from 2021. However, the report suggests that Hong Kong is experiencing a rebound, driven by a healthy IPO market and the influx of mainland Chinese professionals due to a new talent visa program. Nevertheless, Singapore continues to shine, with the report noting that it is seen as an “essential” hub for wealth creation. As wealth creation accelerates across Asia, more and more family offices are adopting multi-hub strategies, making Singapore and Hong Kong complementary wealth centres rather than direct competitors. Global Wealth Landscape On the global stage, the U.S. and China remain the undisputed leaders in terms of UHNW populations. The U.S. is home to a staggering 251,352 UHNW individuals, while China has 121,677. The U.S. also dominates in terms of wealth creation, accounting for around 41% of all newly minted UHNW individuals over the last five years.
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Lebanon has witnessed its deadliest day since the ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah took effect, as Israeli strikes in the southern part of the country claimed 14 lives. This tragic day marked the most violent escalation since the truce began over a week ago, despite the ceasefire’s intended purpose of halting the fighting. The continuing violence highlights the fragile nature of the truce, with both Israel and Hezbollah trading accusations of violations. Rising Tensions and Strikes The health ministry of Lebanon confirmed on Sunday that Israeli airstrikes in southern Lebanon killed at least 14 people, including two women and two children. The attack also left 37 others injured. This marks the bloodiest day since the ceasefire came into force. Israel’s military has launched repeated strikes in Lebanon since the ceasefire began on April 17, and despite the agreement being extended for three more weeks, hostilities persist. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accused Hezbollah of violating the ceasefire, emphasizing that Israeli forces were “vigorously” targeting Hezbollah positions in southern Lebanon. In retaliation, Hezbollah vowed to continue their resistance, maintaining that they would not back down from defending Lebanon’s sovereignty against what they view as Israeli provocations. The Situation on the Ground Israeli military operations are taking place inside the so-called “yellow line” – a 10km-wide strip of Lebanese territory, where residents have been warned not to return. According to reports, the strikes have targeted multiple locations in the south, including evacuation zones where residents had already been warned to leave. Since the ceasefire began, Israeli strikes have claimed the lives of at least 36 individuals in Lebanon. On Sunday, the Lebanese health ministry also reported that at least six Israeli soldiers were injured, with one soldier killed during combat in the southern region of Lebanon. The Escalation of the Conflict Hezbollah, an Iran-backed militant group, has been a key actor in this conflict, drawing Lebanon directly into the broader Middle East war when it launched rocket attacks on Israel in retaliation for the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, in U.S.-Israeli strikes. The group has consistently maintained that it will continue to defend Lebanon’s sovereignty and retaliate against Israeli transgressions. The ceasefire, which was established after extensive discussions between Israeli and Lebanese officials, reserves the right for Israel to respond to any “planned, imminent, or ongoing attacks.” Prime Minister Netanyahu stressed that this provision allowed for Israeli forces to preemptively strike if deemed necessary. Hezbollah, however, has called Israel’s continued occupation of Lebanese territory and the violation of its sovereignty as a direct breach of the truce. Israel’s Military Actions On Sunday, Israeli military forces issued evacuation orders for residents of seven southern Lebanese towns. The strikes intensified, with Israeli warplanes hitting the village of Kfar Tibnit, resulting in casualties. In another raid, a mosque and another religious building in Zawtar al-Sharqiyah were destroyed. Israeli shelling also impacted several border villages, creating chaos and sending civilians fleeing to safer areas. Israel’s military claimed responsibility for targeting “rocket-launching terrorist cells and weapons storage facilities” in these areas. It also conducted artillery and aerial strikes on military infrastructure believed to be used by Hezbollah. In a subsequent development, the Israeli military intercepted three drones that were heading towards Israeli territory, further fueling concerns of an impending escalation. The Human Toll and International Response The violence has claimed a heavy toll on both sides. According to Lebanon’s health ministry, Israeli strikes have killed more than 2,500 people and left over 7,700 injured since the war erupted. The ongoing conflict continues to cause widespread devastation, leaving entire communities in ruins. The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) also reported the death of an Indonesian peacekeeper who succumbed to injuries sustained in a blast last month in southern Lebanon. Preliminary investigations indicated that an Israeli tank shell caused the explosion. Conclusion The situation in Lebanon remains tense, and the truce, though extended, is under serious strain. The ongoing exchanges of fire between Israel and Hezbollah, as well as the toll on civilian life, reflect the deep challenges in securing lasting peace in the region. Both parties accuse each other of violating the terms of the ceasefire, making the future of the truce uncertain.
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On Sunday, the government of Mali confirmed the tragic death of Defense Minister, General Sadio Camara, following a brutal assault by rebels and jihadist groups. The attack, which occurred on Saturday, marks another significant chapter in the ongoing conflict plaguing the junta-run nation, where militant groups linked to al-Qaida and ISIS, as well as a separatist movement in the north, have long been active. In a Facebook post, the Ministry of Defense announced Camara’s passing, extending condolences to his family. The state-run television also aired a message confirming the death, delivered by spokesperson General Issa Ousmane Coulibaly. According to official reports, General Camara’s residence was the target of a suicide car bombing and subsequent attacks on Saturday. “He fought back, engaging with the assailants, some of whom he managed to neutralize,” the government statement said. “During the exchange of gunfire, he sustained serious injuries and was taken to the hospital, where he sadly succumbed to his wounds.” This killing comes in the wake of one of the largest coordinated attacks on Mali’s military forces in recent history. The violence stretched across the capital city, Bamako, as well as several towns and cities in the region, challenging Mali’s security allies, including Russian forces stationed in the country. The attack left 16 people, both military personnel and civilians, injured, and several militants were also killed in the crossfire, according to government spokesperson General Coulibaly. Although the government reported that the attacks appear to be over, the situation remains tense with many unanswered questions about the future of Mali’s security landscape. Separatists Claim Control of Kidal A spokesperson for the Tuareg-led Azawad Liberation Front (FLA), a separatist group fighting for the independence of northern Mali, announced that after the attacks on Saturday, the Russian-backed Malian military and their allies withdrew from the northern city of Kidal. An agreement was reportedly reached to allow their peaceful departure from the area. “Kidal is now free,” declared Mohamed El Maouloud Ramadan, spokesperson for the FLA. Late on Sunday, General Oumar Diarra, the head of Mali’s armed forces, confirmed that the army had indeed left Kidal and repositioned its troops to Anefis, located about 100 kilometers (62 miles) south of Kidal. The city of Kidal has long been a stronghold for the separatist movement, which has been fighting for years to establish an independent state in northern Mali. The region was captured by government forces and Russian mercenaries in 2023, marking a significant victory for the junta and its Russian allies. The Alliance Between Separatists and Militants The attacks on Saturday marked a new phase in the conflict as separatist fighters aligned with the al-Qaida-linked group JNIM (Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims). This is the first time the separatists and JNIM have united in an effort to challenge the Malian government. JNIM confirmed its involvement in the attacks, which included targeting Kidal, a town near Bamako, and three other cities. According to Ramadan, the FLA’s spokesperson, this operation was conducted “in partnership with JNIM, which is also committed to defending the people against the military regime in Bamako.” The separatists have called on Russia to reconsider its support for the Malian junta, accusing its actions of exacerbating the suffering of the civilian population. Tightening Security Measures In response to the escalating violence, the Malian government imposed a curfew in the Bamako district from 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. for three consecutive nights. This curfew is part of the government’s efforts to restore order and protect the remaining civilian and military infrastructure from further attacks.
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Aliko Dangote, President of the Dangote Group, has announced that the expansion of the Dangote Petroleum Refinery will increase its production capacity to an impressive 1.4 million barrels per day, generating employment opportunities for up to 95,000 skilled workers during the peak of construction. Dangote made the announcement on Saturday in Lagos while being inducted as an honorary fellow of the Nigerian Academy of Engineering. He described the expansion as a key milestone in Nigeria’s ongoing industrial transformation. The project highlights the group’s commitment to engineering excellence, sustainable economic development, and the creation of jobs in the country. In his statement, Dangote emphasized, “This award is of special significance as it acknowledges our contributions to the industry, particularly our dedication to employing engineers and skilled professionals. During peak construction, we expect approximately 95,000 skilled workers to be on-site, and we are determined to continue our expansion.” Once completed, the Dangote refinery is expected to surpass India’s Jamnagar refinery and become the world’s largest refinery. This development will drastically increase Nigeria’s refining capacity, strengthening the country’s position in the global oil industry. Dangote also noted that the project would depend on Nigerian expertise, creating vast employment opportunities for engineers, technicians, artisans, and other skilled workers. This expansion is a clear reflection of the group’s long-term vision for industrial development in Nigeria and Africa as a whole. In addition to job creation, the expanded refinery is expected to stimulate local manufacturing, encourage technology transfer, and deepen Nigeria’s oil and gas value chain. It will also boost fuel security, reduce reliance on imported petroleum products, and generate significant savings in foreign exchange for the Nigerian economy. “The magnitude of this expansion signifies our belief in the capabilities of Nigerian professionals and our confidence that Africa can create world-class infrastructure to meet global standards,” Dangote said. Prof Rahamon Bello, President of the Nigerian Academy of Engineering, commended Dangote for the recognition, stating that his impact extends beyond physical infrastructure. “What makes this recognition so fitting is not just what has been built, but the inspiration it provides. Alhaji Aliko Dangote’s journey serves as a motivation for a new generation of engineers, entrepreneurs, and innovators to think boldly, act decisively, and realize the immense potential within our continent,” Bello said. Dangote’s expansion plans are set to increase the refinery’s capacity from its current 650,000 barrels per day, with the project expected to be completed in three years.
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Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, arrived in Russia on Monday, marking a significant moment in the ongoing diplomatic efforts between Tehran and Washington. These talks, crucial for the region’s peace, seem to be at a crossroads, especially following the breakdown of planned discussions in Pakistan. Araghchi, who landed in Saint Petersburg, was reported by the Iranian Foreign Ministry via Telegram. The visit signals a fresh diplomatic push as Araghchi is expected to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin. This visit follows Araghchi’s stopover in Oman between visits to Pakistan’s capital, Islamabad, as regional mediators attempt to keep the peace negotiations between Tehran and Washington afloat. On Saturday, President Donald Trump of the United States made a significant decision by canceling a planned visit to Islamabad by his envoys, Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. The cancellation raised questions about the direction of peace talks and the future of negotiations. However, signs of diplomacy remain, with Fars News Agency reporting that Iran sent “written messages” to the U.S. through Pakistan, outlining key concerns, including nuclear issues and the critical Strait of Hormuz. These messages, however, were not part of formal negotiations. Meanwhile, Axios reported on Sunday that Iran had proposed a plan to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and end the ongoing war, pushing the nuclear discussions to a later stage. This proposal was cited by a U.S. official and two sources familiar with the matter. Iran’s state news agency IRNA later corroborated the report, though it did not offer a direct denial. Despite the continuing diplomatic flurry, a ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran remains in place, although its economic ramifications continue to impact global markets. Iran’s closure of the Strait of Hormuz has led to disruptions in the flow of oil, gas, and fertilizers, causing global prices to rise and triggering fears of food shortages in developing countries. In response, the U.S. has implemented a blockade of the strait, adding to the economic tension. The breakdown of the second round of talks in Pakistan had initially hinged on the visit by U.S. officials Witkoff and Kushner. However, Trump’s decision to cancel the trip followed reports from Iranian state television that Araghchi had no plans to meet U.S. officials in Islamabad. In a related development, President Trump addressed the situation on Fox News, stating that if Iran wanted to resume talks, “they can come to us, or they can call us.” The U.S. president, facing mounting domestic pressure from rising fuel prices due to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, emphasized that the war is becoming increasingly unpopular among the American public, especially with midterm elections just around the corner. Continued Tensions and Diplomatic Engagement Araghchi’s recent travels highlight the complex and multi-faceted nature of the current diplomatic situation. After his meetings with Pakistan’s military chief, Asim Munir, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Araghchi made a stop in Oman before heading to Russia for high-level talks. These engagements emphasize Iran’s strategic efforts to maintain safe transit through the Strait of Hormuz, an issue that Araghchi highlighted on X (formerly Twitter). According to Araghchi, the goal is to ensure the security of the vital waterway “for the benefit of all dear neighbors and the world.” In contrast, Iran’s Revolutionary Guards made it clear that they have no intention of lifting the blockade. They reiterated that maintaining control over the Strait of Hormuz is central to their strategy, viewing it as a key deterrent to U.S. influence in the region. The Guards made this statement via their official Telegram channel, underscoring their commitment to this policy as a matter of national security. The United States, for its part, responded with a retaliatory blockade of Iranian ports, deepening the diplomatic standoff and exacerbating tensions in the region. Israel and Hezbollah Clash in Lebanon In the meantime, the broader Middle Eastern conflict remains volatile, with Israel and Hezbollah exchanging accusations of violating a fragile ceasefire in Lebanon. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the Israeli military was “vigorously” targeting Hezbollah forces as both sides reported new attacks despite the ceasefire that was agreed upon earlier this month. The conflict between Israel and Hezbollah escalated in early March when Hezbollah launched rockets at Israel in retaliation for the death of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. In response, Israel launched airstrikes and conducted a ground invasion, further fueling the regional instability. On Sunday, Netanyahu spoke about Hezbollah’s role in undermining the ceasefire, while Hezbollah accused Israel of ongoing violations and continued occupation. Reports from Lebanon’s health ministry confirmed that Israeli airstrikes on Sunday killed 14 people, including two women and two children, and injured dozens more. The violence has led to significant casualties in southern Lebanon, with Israeli warplanes targeting villages such as Kfar Tibnit and Zawtar al-Sharqiyah. These strikes have caused widespread damage, including the destruction of a mosque and other religious buildings, further exacerbating the already tense situation. In response, Netanyahu emphasized Israel’s “freedom of action,” allowing the military to respond to threats preemptively and act against what it considers “imminent or ongoing attacks.
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The ongoing trial of former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor Godwin Emefiele has encountered fresh challenges, as the prosecution appears to be grappling with the unavailability of a crucial witness. Reports indicate that the prosecution might inform the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) High Court that Jim Obazee, a special investigator appointed by President Bola Tinubu, is unable to testify in the case concerning an alleged $6.23 million discrepancy at the CBN’s Abuja branch. Sources close to the case suggest that this could lead to another request for an adjournment. Legal experts have pointed out that the court, under the leadership of Justice Hamza Muazu, has already voiced concerns over the repeated delays in the trial. In fact, several adjournments have been granted, some of which exceeded the statutory time limits, raising concerns about the efficiency of the proceedings. At the last hearing on March 17, Justice Muazu explicitly directed the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to present its principal witness on the next adjourned date, cautioning that failure to comply could result in consequences. A judicial source, who preferred to remain anonymous, revealed that the prosecution had initially planned to call a police officer as a witness but later scrapped the idea. The decision to abandon this plan was reportedly due to concerns about the reliability and weight of the testimony in such a high-profile case. As the trial progresses, it has also been disclosed that EFCC officials have been in communication with Obazee, who, despite the current challenges, has reportedly expressed his willingness to testify—provided he is formally approached through the proper legal channels.
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Atlético Madrid’s preparations for their crucial UEFA Champions League semi-final clash have taken a concerning turn after a fresh injury setback emerged during their latest league outing. The Spanish side secured a hard-fought 3–2 win over Athletic Club, but the result came at a cost. Midfielder Pablo Barrios was forced off before the hour mark after appearing to struggle physically, casting doubt over his fitness ahead of the high-stakes encounter with Arsenal FC. Barrios had just returned to the starting XI, with head coach Diego Simeone rotating his squad following a disappointing loss to Elche CF. The tactical reshuffle was clearly influenced by the looming European fixture, but the midfielder’s early exit disrupted those plans. He was replaced by Johnny Cardoso, and initial reports from the club confirmed discomfort in his left thigh. While the full extent of the issue is yet to be determined, the visible signs of pain during his substitution have intensified concerns about his availability for both legs of the semi-final. The injury situation doesn’t end there. Ademola Lookman is still unavailable after sustaining a knock during the Copa del Rey final defeat to Real Sociedad. His continued absence further limits Simeone’s attacking and midfield options at a critical stage of the season. Despite these setbacks, there were encouraging signs for Atlético Madrid. Alexander Sørloth made an impactful return from injury, scoring twice to help secure the win. His brace takes his tally to 19 goals in 49 appearances this season, reinforcing his importance to the squad. Additional contributions came from Marcos Llorente, Koke, and Antoine Griezmann, all of whom found the net before being substituted in the second half. Meanwhile, key attacker Julián Álvarez was rested, likely with the upcoming European tie in mind. With multiple fitness concerns and squad rotation decisions in play, Atlético Madrid now face a tense wait for medical updates. The availability of key players could significantly influence their chances against Arsenal in what promises to be a fiercely contested Champions League showdown.
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A former Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Tinubu on Citizenship and Leadership, Nasir Ja’oji, has officially announced his intention to run for the Tarauni Federal Constituency seat in the House of Representatives ahead of the 2027 general elections. This development was disclosed in a statement issued by his media aide, Abba Anwar, and made available on Sunday. The announcement follows Ja’oji’s recent resignation from his advisory role, a decision reportedly influenced by persistent encouragement and growing support from his political base and constituents urging him to enter the race. According to the statement, Ja’oji formally declared his ambition during an engagement with supporters held on Friday in Kano, where he outlined the motivation behind his decision and reaffirmed his political commitment. He emphasized that his aspiration is driven by a strong sense of duty rather than personal ambition, highlighting his dedication to public service and alignment with the principles of his political party, the All Progressives Congress (APC). Ja’oji further noted that over the years, he has consistently demonstrated loyalty and contributed to the development, cohesion, and electoral achievements of the APC at different levels. His involvement within the party structure, he explained, has equipped him with valuable insights into political organization and grassroots mobilization. Reflecting on his tenure as Senior Special Assistant to the President, he stated that the role provided him with a broader understanding of governance, national development, and the importance of inclusive leadership. During that period, he initiated several programs focused on enhancing civic responsibility, encouraging youth participation, and fostering leadership capacity across various communities. The statement also highlighted his track record in advancing youth empowerment and promoting women’s participation in politics and governance. Through a series of large-scale empowerment initiatives, Ja’oji has supported skill development and inclusion efforts aimed at strengthening community engagement. He expressed confidence that, if elected, he would deliver meaningful representation and bring tangible democratic benefits to the people of Tarauni Federal Constituency, building on his prior experience and ongoing engagement with the electorate.
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Nigerian gospel artiste, Salau Aliu Olayiwola, widely recognized as Testimony Jaga, has openly expressed disagreement with former Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, following his recent statements regarding the concept often referred to as the “prosperity gospel.” Osinbajo’s remarks, which questioned and criticised the idea of prosperity-focused teachings within Christianity, have triggered widespread discussions across both religious communities and the general public. His comments have continued to generate varying interpretations, with many individuals sharing contrasting perspectives on the subject. Responding through a video that has since gained traction online, Testimony Jaga dismissed the notion entirely, describing the term “prosperity gospel” as misleading. According to him, Christianity is centered on a single message, which he identified as the Gospel of Jesus Christ, rather than multiple variations or interpretations. He explained that labeling the gospel with additional qualifiers creates confusion and shifts focus away from its original purpose. In his view, the message of Christ remains unified and should not be divided into categories that may distort its meaning. In addition to addressing the theological aspect, the singer also questioned Osinbajo’s position in critiquing the Church. He challenged the former vice president to reflect on his contributions during his tenure in government, suggesting that leadership should be accompanied by visible impact. Jaga further directed attention to the ongoing economic challenges faced by many citizens, emphasizing that poverty continues to be a pressing issue that cannot be overlooked. He argued that discussions about faith should take into account the real-life struggles people encounter daily. He raised concerns about how hardship affects individuals, pointing out that addressing poverty requires practical solutions, not just commentary. From his perspective, leadership—whether in politics or ministry—should demonstrate measurable efforts toward improving lives. The gospel singer maintained that the central message of Christianity is meant to inspire hope, encourage growth, and bring about positive change. He stressed that people experiencing difficulties should receive messages that uplift and motivate them, rather than messages that appear critical or discouraging. He also called for accountability, urging Osinbajo to provide evidence of meaningful influence both as a public servant and as a spiritual leader. According to Jaga, true leadership is reflected in transformed lives, community development, and tangible support for those in need. While acknowledging that there are instances of misconduct within religious spaces, he clarified that such issues should not discredit the overall message of the Christian faith. He noted that although some individuals may misuse their positions, the essence of the gospel remains rooted in hope and transformation. In conclusion, Jaga encouraged leaders to practice what they teach by actively supporting vulnerable groups and demonstrating the values they promote. He emphasized that real change comes from action, urging a balance between preaching and practical impact.
