President Bola Tinubu has said his meeting with the Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, alongside the Ekiti counterpart, Biodun Oyebanji, centred on meaningful discussions about the opportunities for sustainable growth in their states.

Naija News reports that Oborevwori, on Tuesday, arrived at the presidential villa at approximately 3:45 pm. This marked Oborevwori’s first encounter with President Tinubu since his defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

In a post via his ? on Tuesday evening, Tinubu said his meeting with Oborevwori and Oyebanji was also about the critical challenges they are facing in their respective states.

Tinubu added that his administration remains committed to supporting and collaborating with state and sub-national governments to foster long-term development and growth throughout Nigeria.

He wrote, “Today, I met with the governors of Delta State and Ekiti State at the State House. We engaged in meaningful discussions about the opportunities for sustainable growth in their states and discussed the critical challenges they face.

“Our administration remains committed to supporting and collaborating with state governments and sub-nationals to foster long-term development and growth throughout Nigeria. I have long decided to take a bet on our dear country, Nigeria, and together, we must work tirelessly towards building a brighter future for all Nigerians. That is my Renewed Hope promise.”

Aminu Dahiru Ahmad, the Senior Special Assistant to the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, on Visual Communication and Events, has stated that his principal loves and respects his domestic staff.

Recall that a viral video of Ganduje’s police orderly tying the lace of his shoes circulated on social media on Monday which sparked reactions on social media.

Speaking with Daily Trust, Ahmad said the video was circulated by opposition politicians to tarnish the image of Ganduje.

According to him, the former Kano State Governor treats his staff with dignity and respect. He urged the public to disregard negative interpretations given to the video.

His words: “The short video is just an evidence of how cordial the relationship between Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje and his aides is. This is a man who always has smile on his face.

“All his aides and domestic workers feel at home near His Excellency. The public can vet for Ganduje’s friendliness and respect for those working under him.

“Those who know His Excellency can tell you that he is one of the most decent political leaders in Nigeria. I have worked with him for almost ten years. He treats me as his biological son. This is a man who doesn’t believe in sycophancy or ego-massaging.

“The video is being circulated by mischief makers who want introduce the public to a new controversy to achieve a political point. The public should outrightly disregard the claim.

“But surely this will not diminish Abdullahi Umar Ganduje’s popularity. He had served the people of Kano State very well and now he is serving his country.

“The opposition is not happy that His Excellency has injected exceptional vitality into the APC. The party is gathering momentum, especially with the Governor of Delta, Sheriff Oborevwori and Atiku’s running mate in the 2023 presidential election, Ifeanyi Okowa’s defection to the APC.”

Socio-cultural organization, Middle Belt Forum (MBF), has faulted Nigeria’s democracy and the capacity of the nation’s National Assembly.

Naija News reports that MBF’s National Publicity Secretary, Isuwa Dogo, said electoral malpractice, corrupt judicial system and poor representation from the legislature showed the nation’s democracy is yet to work.

In an interview with Daily Independent, Dogo noted that the nation’s electoral system, including internal party politics, has robbed citizens of the right to elect their leaders.

“I’m not sure if we’re practising democracy in Nigeria. There’s hardly anything that’s not influenced in one form or the other, directly or indirectly. All elections, right from the councillorship at the local government to the presidency.

“In one form or the other, some­body, somewhere, a party, a group, an individual, a tribe, a religious organisation, and people with different interests will try to influ­ence it. You’ll also discover that if it’s democracy, it wouldn’t be that almost every single election ends up in the court.

“At no point has the court re­versed some of them or most of the very important ones, like the governorship, the senatorial, and the presidency. No matter how manipulated it might have been, the court will still say the person was duly elected.

“So, it’s either the court is being induced criminally to give their verdict, or they just don’t want to waste their time to do the right thing.

“Another aspect is that from the primaries, people spend so much money to buy off the delegates.

“They’re voting for people who are the highest bidders. So right from the very councillorship to the highest level, the presidency,” Dogo said.

The Middle Belt Forum Spokesman decried the mass defection of politicians to the All Progressives Congress (APC). This, he said, could be to protect themselves from trial for corrupt practices, citing statement of former Chairman of APC, Adams Oshiomhole.

Dogo stressed that politicians who defect to other parties should be made to lose their offices. He said the law has to be reviewed to address the wave of defections.

“Like this gale of defections, when Ad­ams Oshiomhole was APC na­tional chairman, would say if you come to APC, your sins are forgiven. That is to say, no matter how corrupt you are, if you go to the APC, there’s nobody that will touch you.

“But the most interesting aspect should have been that if you defect, you lose your position. Because you contested on the plat­form of the party. But that is not the case now,” he stated.

He further lambasted the National Assembly for failing to be true representatives of the citizens.

“I think the National Assem­bly doesn’t even exist any longer. Because the whole beauty of the National Assembly is to represent the people.

“Do they represent the people? Tell me one single bill they have sponsored in the advent of this very government.

“When it comes to political issues, there’s really no judiciary. You know, why? Because it’s the executive that elects the judiciary,” he noted.

Dogo added that Nigeria’s de­mocracy needs urgent help if it must survive, including ensuring that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is independent and officials are not appointed by the president.

As part of efforts to reform its immigration system, the United Kingdom could soon restrict visa applications from nationalities whose citizens are most likely to overstay their approved stays.

First reported by the Times, the Home Office listed the affected countries as Pakistan, Nigeria, and Sri Lanka.

The report noted that nationals from these countries overstay their visas and later seek asylum.

Successful asylum requests allow the applicants to permanently remain in the country.

As a consequence, the Home Office said they may face tougher restrictions when applying to work or study in the UK.

“Our upcoming Immigration White Paper will set out a comprehensive plan to restore order to our broken immigration system,” a Home Office spokesperson said.

“To tackle abuse by foreign nationals who arrive on work and study visas and go on to claim asylum, we are building intelligence on the profile of these individuals to identify them earlier and faster.

“We keep the visa system under constant review and where we detect trends, which may undermine our immigration rules, we will not hesitate to take action.

“Under our plan for change, our upcoming Immigration White Paper will set out a comprehensive plan to restore order to our broken immigration system.”

Full details of the government’s plans are due to be published in the said paper later in May.

TOUGHER VISA RESTRICTIONS FOR NIGERIANS IN RECENT TIMES

Nigerians have been significantly affected by the UK’s immigration reform plans over the past two years, especially in the areas of student visas, work permits, and visa approvals.

Following tighter rules on dependents and post-study work opportunities introduced by former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, international student applications to the UK have dropped drastically.

Many Nigerians have now turned to the US as a choice destination — but even that option has now proven unsustainable.

US President Donald Trump has also increased tighter restrictions, warning that even students with valid visas could be deported if the US believes they do not serve her best interest.

A 2024 report showed how Nigerian visa rejection rates to the UK rose from about 1 in 31 applications in late 2022 to 1 in 8 by late 2023.

This resulted in a 63 percent decrease in visas issued to Nigerians compared to the previous year.

The financial burden of non-refundable fees combined with higher rejection rates have intensified pressure on Nigerian applicants.

Last year, TheCable reported how the British government earned over N40 billion processing visas for Nigerian nationals between June 2023 to the same month in 2024.

African economists and development experts have urged nationals of developing nations not to seek greener pastures abroad but to stay back and contribute to the development of their countries.

The Federal High Court in Abuja, on Tuesday, banished Favour Kanu, wife of Prince Fineboy Kanu, the younger brother of Nnamdi Kanu for streaming the proceedings of the court live on her Facebook page.

Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), is being prosecuted by the Federal Government for alleged terrorism.

Justice James Omotosho, who gave the order, after Mrs Kanu admitted engaging in the act and apologised to the court, held that she would have been charged for contempt of court.

Although Kanu’s lawyer, Chief Kanu Agabi, SAN, also apologised on her behalf, Justice Omotosho insisted that Mrs Kanu would be barred from three proceedings.

The judge expressed surprise that despite that Mrs Kanu’s phone was confiscated on the last adjourned date when she was caught recording him, she still went ahead to post the video online.

“I want to hear from her. Were you not the one that I took your phone?

“I did not give order to forfeit that phone. I don’t know if she might be a wife to my brother (Nnamdi Kanu),” the judge said.

The judge, who cautioned against any act that could cause delay in the trial, assured all parties in the case that justice would be served. (NAN)

Residents of Iyiowa Odekpe in Ogbaru Local Government Area of Anambra State have protested against exorbitant electricity bills from the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC), claiming monthly charges now exceed the national minimum wage of ₦70,000.

The protesters, many holding placards, said most households receive bills ranging from ₦80,000 to ₦130,000—even those with prepaid meters. They described the charges as “inhuman and outrageous” and condemned the recent disconnection of power to the entire community by EEDC officials.

Some of the placards read: “N80,000 monthly electricity bill is unaffordable”

“Over 80% of those disconnected have prepaid meters”

“Stop the overbilling now!”

“There is a monthly cap from NERC”

Chairman of the Iyiowa Odekpe Landlords and Tenants Association, Chief Sunday Obinze, said residents are being exploited and intimidated. He questioned how civil servants could afford such bills, noting that charges used to range between ₦18,000 and ₦28,000 before the recent hike.

Obinze cited information from the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), which places the billing cap for their area at about ₦31,000—an amount the residents say they are willing to pay.

Dr. Okolie Chukwunonso, secretary of the association, added that efforts to dialogue with EEDC were ignored, and the company’s response was to disconnect power across the community.

“It’s unjustifiable to disconnect an entire area where over 80% use prepaid meters,” he said.

The community is demanding fair billing, cancellation of inflated arrears, provision of prepaid meters to those without, and immediate restoration of electricity. They are also calling for urgent government and regulatory intervention.

Nigerian celebrities lit up the 2025 Met Gala with bold, culturally infused fashion statements, proudly representing Africa on the global stage.

Held at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, the annual high-fashion event once again welcomed some of Nigeria’s finest talents, including music stars Burna Boy, Tems, and Ayra Starr, renowned author Chimamanda Adichie and renowned fashion designer Swanky Jerry.

This year’s theme, ‘Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,’ called for refined interpretations of Black identity and heritage through precision tailoring—a challenge Nigerian attendees embraced with flair and confidence.

Tems (Temilade Openiyi) stunned in a custom African-inspired outfit that beautifully merged traditional Aso-Ebi prints with Western haute couture design. Her appearance turned heads, earning praise for seamlessly blending heritage with innovation.

Burna Boy (Damini Ogulu) wore a standout ensemble by Ghanaian-British designer Ozwald Boateng. Describing it as “specially made,” the Grammy-winning artiste’s look drew attention for its elegant craftsmanship. A viral video later showed him celebrating the night alongside UK rapper Central Cee.

Ayra Starr brought her signature “sabi girl” energy in a bold, floor-length gown that was both minimal and striking, capturing her youthful style and fearless attitude.

Chimamanda exuded poise in a powerful red gown, proving her sartorial prowess matched her literary acclaim. She also served on the Met Gala’s 2025 Costume Institute Benefit host committee, joining other prominent figures like Usher, Tyla, Dapper Dan, Ayo Edebiri and Doechii.

Celebrity stylist Jeremiah Ogbodo, better known as Swanky Jerry, arrived in a head-turning design by Deji and Kola. Sharing his look on social media, he wrote: “On duty for Met Gala 2025, superfine. Tailoring black style. When the theme calls for legacy, I deliver. Heritage in every stitch. Legacy in every look. Style crafted. Culture honoured.”

American-Nigerian actress Ayo Edebiri also drew praise for her look, which featured subtle nods to Benin heritage while maintaining sleek Western aesthetics. Her hairstyle and outfit bridged African tradition and global fashion trends.

The Met Gala, held annually on the first Monday in May, remains fashion’s most exclusive night. Officially known as the Metropolitan Museum of Art Costume Institute Gala, the event raises funds for the museum’s Costume Institute. Since 1995, it has been led by Vogue editor-in-chief Anna Wintour, who continues to guide the event’s global influence.

Human rights lawyer, Dele Farotimi, has declared support for Mr Peter Obi if the former Anambra State governor runs for president again in 2027.

Farotimi was one of Obi’s spokespersons when he ran for president in 2023 on the platform of the Labour Party.

The human rights lawyer considers discussions about the 2027 election at this point as a distraction.

Farotimi, who spoke during a Channels Television’s interview programme, said Obi was the best among the candidates that contested in 2023.

“If elections where our votes will count were held today, I would vote for Peter Gregory Obi, unless somebody else enters the race who I believe can do better.

“If it’s still the same line-up as last time, I will definitely be voting for Peter Obi.

“I hope he will be a little bolder with his policy platforms, but frankly speaking, in terms of capacity and integrity, there’s no one else I would support,” he said.

Farotimi said it would take something quite significant and unusual to change his mind.

“Something drastic would have to happen for me to decide not to support Peter Obi. It might be that he aligns with some objectionable individuals I cannot tolerate and that’s a real possibility. However, outside of that, there’s no one else,” he said.

He insisted that it’s premature to start discussing the 2027 poll at this point, saying the condition in the country did not not align with such discussions.

“I actually think our conversations about elections at this point are a disservice to ourselves, because we really cannot speak of elections in our current circumstances,” he said.

According to him, his unflinching support for Obi is borne out of a desire for a better Nigeria.

A man identified as Mr. Godwin, who had been posing as a mentally ill person to conceal his alleged involvement in criminal activities, has been arrested by operatives of the Lagos State Neighbourhood Safety Corps (LNSC), Epe Command.

Godwin, a native of Ughelli Local Government Area in Delta State, had been under discreet surveillance for more than a month following intelligence reports and growing suspicion from local residents.

Concerned members of the community had observed his unusual behaviour, including discreet clothing changes each morning and frequent late-night phone conversations.

According to LNSC in a statement, the suspect often took shelter in an abandoned security post located along Lagos Road near the T-junction in Epe. His activities triggered concerns, prompting residents to alert the LNSC.

On Monday, during a routine patrol, officers were informed that Godwin was temporarily away from the location.

The team swiftly acted on the information, conducting a search of the abandoned structure. During the operation, they discovered 27 registered SIM cards hidden within a section of a block wall.

LNSC officers then laid in wait and arrested the suspect shortly after he returned to the location. During preliminary interrogation, he confirmed his name and origin but refused to disclose the whereabouts of any mobile phones linked to the SIM cards.

A local food vendor who had occasionally interacted with the suspect told authorities that while Mr. Godwin maintained the appearance of a mentally ill person, his conversations and mannerisms often indicated otherwise.

“On May 5, during a routine patrol, officers were informed by residents that the suspect was temporarily absent from the area. Acting swiftly, the patrol team searched the structure and discovered 27 registered SIM cards concealed within a section of a block wall.

“Officers were immediately dispatched, and Mr. Godwin was arrested shortly after his return to the location. During interrogation, he confirmed his identity and background but declined to reveal the location of any mobile phones linked to the SIM cards.

“A local food vendor corroborated reports of his strange behavior, noting that he often appeared mentally sound despite his erratic lifestyle,” the statement read partly.

The suspect is currently in custody while investigations continue to determine the extent of his involvement in possible kidnapping or related criminal operations.

President Bola Tinubu has directed all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to immediately halt the procurement of foreign goods and services that are available locally in a bid to strengthen the naira and stimulate the Nigerian economy.

Tinubu issued the directive on Monday at the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting held at the State House in Abuja,

Tinubu, at the FEC meeting, unveiled the “Nigeria First Policy” targeted at promoting local content, building national pride, and reversing the outflow of public funds to foreign markets.

“This policy beckons a new era of local content enterprise, self-belief and national pride,” Tinubu told cabinet members at the meeting.

He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to economic reform and self-reliance.

According to Tinubu, the nation could no longer afford to enrich foreign supply chains while local industries suffer from underutilisation and neglect.

“We will make what we use and use what we make — not as a slogan, but as a national commitment,” he added.

The president praised recent reforms which he said were beginning to bear fruit, including the removal of fuel subsidies, investments in infrastructure, and improvements to the business climate.

These, he noted, have led to rising reserves, increased oil output, and renewed investor confidence, with multi-billion-dollar commitments from companies such as Shell, Total, ExxonMobil, and Saudi-based SALIC.

He also mentioned the government’s prioritisation of agriculture as a strategic sector for economic growth and poverty alleviation.

Referring to the National Sugar Master Plan II launched in 2024, Tinubu identified the sugar industry as a key example where backward integration is being enforced to reduce dependence on imports.

He urged greater discipline and execution to scale domestic production.

However, Tinubu lamented the lack of full participation by the private sector in harnessing the opportunities created by the administration’s reforms.

He attributed this partly to a system that has historically rewarded dealmaking over real investment. “We must end this,” he said.

“Public funds should not enrich intermediaries who export value instead of creating it.”

To operationalise the new policy, Tinubu instructed the Bureau of Public Procurement (BPP) to immediately revise its guidelines to favour local producers and establish a “Local Content Compliance Framework” for all government procurements.

A register of qualified Nigerian manufacturers and service providers is also to be maintained by the BPP.

Tinubu further ordered that all deployed procurement officers should revert to the BPP as the supervising agency.

Furthermore, no ministry, department or agency will henceforth be allowed to purchase foreign goods or services where local alternatives exist unless a waiver is obtained from the BPP.

Tinubu directed that contracts for goods and services not available locally must include plans for technology transfer, local production, or skill development.

MDAs are also expected to carry out an immediate audit of their procurement plans and align them with the new directives, with breaches attracting penalties, including cancellation of procurements and disciplinary action.

“Let this day mark the beginning of a new era of local enterprise, self-belief, and national pride,” President Tinubu declared.