News

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has defended Barcelona youngster Lamine Yamal after the footballer displayed a Palestinian flag during the club’s La Liga title celebrations.

Sánchez addressed the issue while speaking to journalists at a press conference. He explained Spain’s official position on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and pointed out that the country had already recognised Palestine as a state.

“Spain has recognised the state of Palestine,” Sánchez stated. “From the very beginning, Spain condemned the attacks by Hamas, and later condemned the war being waged by the Israeli authorities in the Gaza Strip.”

The Prime Minister made the remarks amid growing public debate surrounding athletes and celebrities who openly express political opinions about the conflict in Gaza.

Sánchez maintained that Spain’s position remains focused on peace and diplomacy. He said the country continues to oppose violence from all sides while supporting efforts aimed at achieving a peaceful solution.

The comments followed criticism from some Israeli media outlets after Yamal waved the Palestinian flag during Barcelona’s celebrations for winning the Spanish league title.

Sánchez spoke during a joint appearance in Madrid alongside World Health Organization Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, where they also discussed the hantavirus situation in Spain.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

A young man from Northern Nigeria, Saidu Abdulrahaman, is set to make a bold attempt at a Guinness World Record currently held by Bollywood superstar Akshay Kumar.

Kumar, one of India’s most famous actors, holds the record for taking 184 selfie photographs in three minutes. Now, Abdulrahaman has declared his intention to not just match but surpass that feat—by clicking 200 selfies within the same time frame.

Speaking with reporters in the Federal Capital City, Abuja, the determined young man said the challenge is part of a larger mission to showcase the talent and untapped potential of Northern Nigerian youths, as well as Nigerians at large, to a global audience.

“This is not just about a record. It is about proving that young people from this region can compete with the best in the world,” Abdulrahaman said.

The event, expected to draw thousands of spectators, will take place in Abuja. Abdulrahaman confirmed that he has already received approval from Guinness World Records to attempt the challenge, and he is now fully prepared to make history.

Breaking a record held by a world-famous actor like Akshay Kumar is no small feat, but Saidu Abdulrahaman says he is confident, focused, and ready to bring the title home.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

A Federal High Court sitting in Abuja has sentenced former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman, to 75 years imprisonment over a N33.8 billion fraud case.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) had filed a 12-count charge against the former minister over allegations of money laundering and conspiracy linked to funds meant for the Zungeru and Mambilla hydroelectric power projects.

Justice James Omotosho found Mamman guilty on all the charges brought against him by the anti-graft agency.

The court sentenced him to seven years imprisonment on 10 counts. He also received three years imprisonment on one count and two years on another.

Justice Omotosho ruled that the prison terms would run consecutively. The judge also stated that the convict would not have the option of a fine except on count four, where he could pay N10 million.

The court further ordered the forfeiture of foreign currencies recovered from the former minister as well as four properties in Abuja linked to him.

The EFCC had arraigned Mamman in July 2024 on allegations that he conspired with some ministry officials and private firms to “indirectly convert” N33.8 billion meant for the execution of the power projects.

The former minister pleaded not guilty to the charge marked FHC/ABJ/CR/273/2024.

During the trial, the EFCC presented 17 witnesses and tendered 43 exhibits before the court.

On May 7, the court convicted Mamman in absentia after Justice Omotosho held that the prosecution had proved its case beyond reasonable doubt.

Following the conviction, the court issued a warrant for his arrest.

At Wednesday’s proceedings, Mohammed Ahmed, counsel to the convict, informed the court that he did not know Mamman’s whereabouts. He added that attempts to reach him through his telephone lines were unsuccessful.

After delivering the judgment, Justice Omotosho directed security agencies to work with Interpol to ensure the arrest of the former minister.

The court also ruled that the prison sentence would begin from the day of his arrest.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

One of the officers attached to the Kano State anti-illicit drugs and phone-snatching task force has raised concerns over the alleged non-payment of salaries and allowances for several years.

The officer, who spoke emotionally in a video circulating online, lamented the condition faced by members of the outfit after completing their training.

According to the officer, many personnel have continued to work despite not receiving salaries or allowances from the government for years.

The officer also accused the government of neglecting members of the task force after their recruitment and training.

The operatives are known for supporting efforts against illicit drug activities and phone snatching in parts of Kano State.

As of the time of filing this report, the Kano State Government had not issued an official response to the allegations.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, Ph.D., GCON, has called for stronger diplomatic ties between Nigeria and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, particularly through educational exchange programmes aimed directly at grassroots communities.

Speaking on Tuesday in Abuja while hosting the new Saudi Ambassador to Nigeria, Yousef bin Mohammed Al-Balawi, the Speaker recalled that diplomatic relations between both nations date back to 1961, describing the connection as “extremely, very historic.”

Speaker Abbas specifically requested that scholarship opportunities be channelled to Nigerians through their representatives in the National Assembly, noting that lawmakers maintain direct contact with constituents at the grassroots level.

“I also want to commend your country for supporting a lot of Nigerians on education in particular,” the Speaker said. “So many of our accomplished clerics and scholars in Nigeria can attribute their foundation and success educationally to the scholarships that Saudi Arabia has been giving to our students over the past 40 years.”

He drew a parallel with a recent collaboration with the Algerian Government, which has pioneered a model of engaging the Nigerian Parliament directly, rather than limiting cooperation to the Executive arm alone.

The Speaker recalled that during a visit to Algeria about six months ago, both nations agreed that scholarship slots offered to Nigeria would be shared between the Executive and Legislative branches.

“We are happy to inform you that through that particular understanding, over 200 scholarship slots are under the process of being given to the Nigerian Parliament to also support their (members’) people at the grassroots,” Abbas stated.

He expressed hope that in the coming months, a similar arrangement could be established with Saudi Arabia, ensuring that educational benefits reach Nigerians across all levels of society through their elected representatives.

By Uzair Adam

The Borno State Government has addressed growing concerns about the likelihood of rehabilitated former insurgents returning to violence, insisting that its deradicalisation and reintegration programme includes firm safeguards to prevent recidivism.

A key element of the process, according to the state, is an oath sworn on the Quran at the final stage of rehabilitation, which authorities believe carries strong moral and spiritual consequences for participants.

The Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Zuwaira Gambo, disclosed this during an interview on News Central Television on Monday.

She explained that the oath-taking marks the conclusion of the Borno model and is intended to reinforce commitment to peaceful living.

She said once beneficiaries complete the programme, they are required to swear with the Quran, stressing that those who take such an oath understand the weight of the obligation.

Gambo also responded to fears that some of the ex-fighters could return to insurgent camps, noting that such individuals would face severe consequences within the ranks of the groups they once belonged to.

According to her, individuals who surrender and embrace state authority are often treated as outsiders by insurgents, making reintegration into such groups difficult and dangerous.

She, however, identified inadequate funding as a major challenge affecting the programme’s effectiveness, noting that the increasing number of participants places pressure on available resources needed for feeding, clothing, and providing education.

Public scrutiny of the Federal Government’s De-radicalisation, Rehabilitation and Reintegration initiative, known as Operation Safe Corridor, intensified following the recent graduation and planned reintegration of 744 former insurgents.

Of the total number, 597 beneficiaries are from Borno State, while others are from Adamawa, Yobe, Kano and other parts of the country.

The development has generated mixed reactions among stakeholders, with many questioning the programme’s transparency, accountability and consideration for victims of insurgency.

The President of the Nigerian Bar Association, Afam Osigwe, acknowledged that reintegration can be beneficial but cautioned that it must not come at the expense of victims.

He noted that reintegrating individuals accused of violent acts without addressing the suffering of victims could create the impression that perpetrators are being prioritised.

Similarly, the Country Director of Amnesty International Nigeria, Isa Sanusi, called for greater transparency in the process.

He stressed that the government needs to provide clear information about the identities of those being reintegrated, their roles in insurgency, and the extent of their involvement, to build public trust in the programme.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved Nigeria’s bid to host the 2026 CAF Awards ceremony alongside the 48th CAF General Assembly.

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) announced the development in a statement issued on Tuesday, following a meeting between President Tinubu and CAF President Patrice Motsepe on the sidelines of the Africa Forward event currently underway in Nairobi, Kenya.

According to the statement, the 48th CAF General Assembly will take place in October of this year, with the participation of football governing body presidents from 54 African nations and top football officials from across the continent.

By Hadiza Abdulkadir

The Nigerian entertainment industry is in deep mourning following the news that beloved Nollywood actor and model, Alexx Ekubo, has passed away at the age of 40.

Reports emerged late Tuesday, May 12, indicating that the star died at a private medical facility in Lagos. While his family has yet to release an official statement regarding the cause of death, sources close to the actor suggest he had been quietly battling a long-term illness.

Ekubo’s passing comes after a prolonged and mysterious absence from the spotlight. Once a fixture of the Lagos social scene and a prolific presence on social media, the actor had not been seen publicly or posted online since late 2024, leading to months of mounting concern from his global fanbase.

Rising to fame as the first runner-up in the 2010 Mr. Nigeria contest, Ekubo transitioned into a powerhouse acting career. Known for his wit and charm, he became a household name through blockbuster hits like Weekend Getaway, Lagos Cougars, and Sugar Rush. Over his decade-long career, he earned numerous accolades, including the Best Supporting Actor trophy at the 2013 Best of Nollywood Awards.

Beyond the screen, Ekubo was a trained lawyer and a traditional chief, holding the title of Ikuku of Amumara Town.

Tributes have already begun pouring in from colleagues and fans, who remember him not just as a talented performer, but as a vibrant “breath of fresh air” in the African film industry.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Three pilgrims from Jigawa State taking part in the 2026 Hajj in Saudi Arabia have reportedly fallen victim to theft in separate incidents involving cash and personal belongings.

One of the affected pilgrims, an elderly Fulani man identified as Baba Katanga from Katanga village in Kiyawa Local Government Area, said he lost 400 US dollars after boarding a taxi from Masjidil Haram to Mahabbat Al Akhawin Hotel in Makkah.

The pilgrim alleged that the taxi driver stole the money while he was checking his Nusuk card during the journey.

“I was surprised when I later checked and discovered that my 400 dollars had disappeared. I became confused because that was the money I intended to use throughout my stay,” he said.

In another incident, a Fulani pilgrim from Jahun Local Government Area reportedly lost all his dollar notes to a suspected taxi driver. His identity was not made public.

A female pilgrim popularly called Hajiya also reportedly lost a handbag that contained two mobile phones and cash meant for her upkeep during the pilgrimage.

The incident happened at Miqat in Madinah, where pilgrims usually prepare for Umrah by performing ablution, wearing Ihram and making Niyyah before travelling to Makkah.

Sources said the woman left the bag unattended briefly before she discovered that it had disappeared.

The incidents have reportedly generated sympathy among other pilgrims from Jigawa State, with some of them contributing money to assist the victims while awaiting possible intervention from relevant authorities.

The Director-General of the Jigawa State Pilgrims Welfare Board, Alhaji Ahmad Umar Labbo, expressed concern over the incidents and assured the affected pilgrims of support from the board.

He said the board had earlier warned pilgrims before their departure from Nigeria to remain alert and protect their money and valuables from criminals who target crowded places.

Labbo also advised pilgrims not to hand over their belongings to strangers or leave valuables unattended, especially around holy sites and transport locations.

He further prayed for the safety and protection of all pilgrims throughout the Hajj exercise.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has reacted to the death of former House of Representatives member, Hon. Abba Anas Adamu, who reportedly died while in the custody of bandits after his abduction along the Kaduna-Abuja highway.

Reports indicated that the former lawmaker was kidnapped on May 3, 2026, and died nine days later despite efforts by his family to secure his freedom.

Reacting to the incident, Atiku described the development as another sign of the growing security challenges facing the country under the current administration.

“His death is yet another grim reminder of the worsening collapse of security under the Tinubu administration,” he said.

The former vice-president spoke through a statement issued by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu.

According to Atiku, the death of a former federal lawmaker in the hands of kidnappers reflects what he described as the government’s inability to fulfil its constitutional responsibility of protecting lives and property.

“Let us be brutally honest: Nigeria is under siege, and the Tinubu administration appears either overwhelmed, indifferent, or dangerously incompetent in the face of this national emergency.

“When a former member of the National Assembly can be abducted on one of the country’s most strategic highways and die in captivity, what hope remains for the ordinary Nigerian who lacks visibility, influence, or protection?

“This is no longer about isolated incidents. It is now a horrifying pattern. Nigerians are being kidnapped from highways, farms, communities, and even their homes, while the government continues to issue sterile statements and recycled assurances that bear no resemblance to the lived reality of our people.

“Under this administration, insecurity has evolved from a crisis into a cruel national routine. Citizens now travel with prayers instead of protection. Families sleep with one eye open. Businesses are shutting down, farmers are abandoning their land, and entire communities are being surrendered to criminals.

“A government that cannot secure its highways cannot claim to govern. A government that watches citizens get hunted like prey has failed the most elementary test of leadership.

“It is particularly tragic that the Abuja-Kaduna corridor and surrounding routes have remained notorious theatres of terror despite repeated promises, security budgets running into trillions, and endless propaganda about progress.

“Nigerians deserve answers. What exactly is the security strategy of this administration? Where is the urgency? Where is the accountability? How many more deaths must be recorded before this government realises that press releases do not defeat bandits?

“No amount of political spin can deodorise this failure. A nation where former lawmakers die in captivity while criminals operate with audacity is a nation in distress.

“At this point, what Nigerians need is not another hollow condolence message. They need decisive leadership, coherent action, and measurable results.”

Atiku also sympathised with the family of the deceased, the people of Jigawa State and Nigerians affected by insecurity across the country.

He urged the Federal Government to address the worsening security situation with urgency and take stronger measures to protect citizens.