PINK REPUBLIC/ MY BLOG IS A STORY MARATHON.

  The Rivers State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has issued a 14-day ultimatum to the Rivers State Police Command, demanding a public apology for the assault on five journalists during a peaceful protest in Port Harcourt. Failure to comply, the union warned, would result in a statewide media blackout. In a statement jointly signed by Council Chairman Comrade Paul Bazia and Secretary Dr. Ijeoma Tubosia, the NUJ condemned the police actions as “unprovoked, barbaric, and inhuman,” calling for the immediate identification and prosecution of the officers involved. “The NUJ, as a watchdog of society, will not sit idly by while media practitioners are subjected to barbarism and brutality. Enough is enough,” the statement read, adding that further attacks on journalists would be “vehemently resisted.” The assaulted journalists—Charles Opurum of Channels TV, Allwell Ene of Naija FM, Soibelemari Oruwari of Nigeria Info, Ikezam Godswill of AIT, and Femi Ogunkhilede of Supe...

 Anambra Governor Soludo Welcomes Late Senator Ubah’s Supporters to APGA, Vows to Honor His Legacy In a significant political development, Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, on Tuesday warmly received thousands of supporters of the late Senator Ifeanyi Ubah into the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA). The defectors, primarily from the All Progressives Congress (APC) and various support groups loyal to the late senator, pledged their commitment to work for Soludo’s re-election, citing his dedication to the progress of Anambra State as a key motivator. Speaking at the event held in Awka, Governor Soludo expressed deep regret over Senator Ubah’s untimely death at the age of 52, revealing that the two had discussed plans for Ubah to support his re-election campaign shortly before his passing. Soludo promised to immortalize the late senator, potentially by naming a street or monument in his honor, to recognize his contributions to Anambra and beyond. “I welcome you all t...

 A response to Ali Ndume Senator Ali Ndume's latest outburst on TV about so-called "lopsided appointments" by President  Bola Ahmed Tinubu reeks of hypocrisy and selective perception. While the Borno senator grandstanded as a moral authority on equity,  he forgot to tell his interviewer that two of his kinsmen featured in recent NNPC Limited top appointments. The Chairman, appointed by President Tinubu, is from Ndume's senatorial district.  If Tinubu and his surrogates' choices are so "tribal," how did two of Ndume's kinsmen clinch NNPC's top roles? As a politician, Ndume has proven time and time again that he is allergic to facts and addicted to theatrics. His habit of firing half-baked criticisms—only to be contradicted by facts—proves he's more interested in headline-chasing, rabble rousing, stoking divisive narratives than offering constructive criticism.  President Tinubu is deeply committed to fostering a government that embraces all Ni...

 US Imports $643m in Nigerian Goods Ahead of Tariff Hike The United States imported $643.1 million worth of goods from Nigeria in the first two months of 2025, just ahead of new tariffs set to take effect on April 9 under the Trump administration. While the tariffs have sparked concerns over potential trade impacts, key Nigerian exports like oil and minerals are exempted. Data from the US International Trade Commission shows a 32.4% drop in customs-based imports year-on-year, falling from $951.6 million in 2024. Despite the decline, Nigeria’s trade balance improved, shifting from a $158.8 million deficit to a $44.3 million surplus. Total trade between both nations in the period stood at $1.33 billion, underscoring strong bilateral ties amid evolving trade policies.

 Enugu Lawmaker Defects from Labour Party to PDP, Cites Internal Crisis and Support for Governor Mbah The member representing Isi-Uzo State Constituency in the Enugu State House of Assembly, Hon. Eze Gabriel Lebechi, has formally left the Labour Party (LP) for the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), citing unresolved internal crises within his former party. Speaking during plenary on Tuesday, Lebechi said the LP is "almost dead" due to prolonged internal wrangling. He added that his decision also stemmed from the impressive performance of Governor Peter Mbah, whom he praised for transforming the state and leading with vision. Lebechi noted that after extensive consultations with his constituents and stakeholders, he was advised to join a more stable and progressive platform. He expressed appreciation to his supporters and said he is committed to working with the PDP to advance development in Enugu State. The Speaker of the House, Uche Ugwu, confirmed the receipt of Lebechi...

 Kenya Pipeline Captain commends Nigeria Customs Service for Stellar Championship Hosting Captain of the Kenya Pipeline volleyball team, Gladys Ekaru, has lauded the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) for its exemplary organization of the 2025 African Women's Volleyball Club Championship, currently ongoing in Abuja. Ekaru made the remarks following her team’s emphatic 3-0 victory over Club Omnisports, with set scores of 25-10, 25-5, and 25-15, in their final group stage fixture. The seasoned national team player highlighted the efforts of the tournament hosts, singling out the leadership of Comptroller General Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, for particular praise. “From the facilities to the support provided to every team, it’s evident that a tremendous amount of planning and effort went into this championship,” Ekaru said. “The Nigeria Customs Service, under Comptroller General Adeniyi, has delivered a world-class event.” She went on to emphasize the seamless coordination, top-tier infrastructur...

 Al Ahly secures spot in quarterfinals with dominant 3-0 win over Mayo Kani Evolution Egyptian volleyball giants Al Ahly have advanced to the quarterfinals of the Championship after a commanding 3-0 victory over Cameroon’s Mayo Kani Evolution (MKE), with set scores of 25-17, 25-19, 25-15. Al Ahly made their intentions clear from the start, dominating the first set 25-17 with fast-paced play and exceptional ball distribution. Although MKE showed resilience, with solid backcourt defense to keep several balls in play, the Egyptian side remained in control. The second set saw both teams exchange a series of errors, including hitting and serving mistakes. Despite the tight contest, Al Ahly pulled away in the final moments to clinch the set 25-19, extending their lead in the match. In the third set, MKE put up a strong fight, keeping things competitive early on. However, Al Ahly’s well-executed plays and their ability to exploit gaps in MKE’s defense gave them a 13-10 lead. With a series...

 NECA Commends Nigeria Customs Service on Trade Facilitation Reforms …As CGC Reaffirms Commitment to Business-Friendly Policies The Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) has commended the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) for the recent policy reforms and operational improvements introduced under the current administration, particularly in the area of trade facilitation.  This commendation was given on Monday, 7 April 2025, when the President of NECA, Dr Ifeanyi Okoye, led a delegation on a courtesy visit to the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, at the Nigeria Customs Service Headquarters in Maitama, Abuja. The visit aimed at strengthening collaboration on trade facilitation and private sector development. “We are here today to commend the Service for your impactful initiatives so far. NECA was established in 1957 to represent the interests of businesses in Nigeria. Today, with over 4,000 members, we play a vital role in enhancing the operating e...

 SANWO-OLU: LASG WILL STRENGTHEN BILATERAL RELATIONSHIP WITH SWEDEN IN TECHNOLOGY, CYBERSECURITY •Governor hosts Crown Princess of Sweden at Lagos House, Marina  Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Tuesday, said the State Government will strengthen its bilateral relationship with Sweden in information technology, cybersecurity and infrastructure for the benefit of residents of the State. Governor Sanwo-Olu spoke during a courtesy visit by the Crown Princess of Sweden and Duchess of Vastergotland, Her Royal Highness, Princess Alice Desiree, and her entourage at the Lagos House, Marina. The Governor, who was represented by his deputy, Dr Obafemi Hazmat, said Lagos, as the heartbeat of the country, is essential to Nigeria and important to Africa. He expressed optimism that the stakeholders meeting of the Swedish representative with the Business community in Lagos would birth more development opportunities for mutual benefits. "We need a lot of technology. We are build...

 Man in court for alleged defilement of 19-month-old baby The Lagos State Government on Tuesday arraigned a man, Peter Oshomah, before an Ikeja Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence Court, for allegedly defiling a 19-month-old baby (name withheld). Oshomah was arraigned on a charge of defilement. He pleaded not guilty to the charge. The state counsel, Miss Inumidun Solarin, told the court that the defendant allegedly committed the offence on Feb. 5, 2024 at 5.25 p.m. at No. 8, DB Str., Shagari Estate in Ipaja, Lagos. Solarin alleged the defendant defiled the minor by having unlawful sexual intercourse with her. According to her, the alleged offence contravene Section 137 of the Criminal Laws of Lagos State, 2015. Justice Rahman Oshodi, remanded the defendant at the Kirikiri Correctional Centre. Oshodi adjourned the case until July 1 for commencement of trial.

 Saleh Mamman Gave Confessional Statements Voluntarily in Presence of his Lawyer- Witness   The 1st Prosecution Witness PW1 in the trial within trial of former Minister of Power, Saleh Mamman  told a Federal High Court sitting in Abuja and presided over by Justice James Omotosho  that the former Minister  made confessional statements at the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC’s  office voluntarily by authorizing his lawyer to write the statement on his behalf.   Mamman is facing trial in relation to the Mambilla Power Project on a 12-count charge, bordering on conspiracy to commit money laundering to the tune of N33,804,830,503.73 (Thirty-Three Billion, Eight Hundred and Four Million, Eight Hundred and Thirty Thousand, Five Hundred and Three Naira, Seventy-three Kobo).    The witness,  Abubakar Kwaido, an investigator with the EFCC,  while being led in evidence by prosecution counsel, Rotimi Oyedepo, SAN, objected to the ...

 PRESS RELEASE REGIONAL SECURITY: POLICE PARTNERS WITH INTERPOL TO STRENGTHEN DATA SHARING. As NPF Receives WAPIS For Expanded Usage Towards Effective Security. In a move aimed at significantly enhancing internal security and law enforcement capabilities through international partnership and collaboration, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, PhD., NPM., who doubles as the Chairman of the West African Chiefs of Police Committee (WAPCCO), received a visit of a delegation from INTERPOL led by Mr Cyril Gout, the Executive Director Police Services on the 8th of April 2025, at the Force Headquarters Abuja. The visit was aimed at strengthening the cooperation between the Nigeria Police Force and notify the police of the handing over of the system. Earlier today, the Ministry of Police Affairs took over the West African Police Information System (WAPIS) from INTERPOL on behalf of the Nigerian Government, and the system is currently domiciled with the Nigeria Polic...

 Abia Govt Warns School Heads: Stop Illegal Fees or Face Dismissal The Abia State Government has issued a stern warning to school heads and principals, threatening dismissal for anyone found collecting unauthorized fees in public schools, in violation of the state’s free education policy. Information Commissioner Prince Okey Kanu, speaking after the weekly Executive Council meeting, reiterated that education is free from primary to JSS3, while students in SS1 to SS3 are only required to pay a reduced fee of ₦3,300. He emphasized that routine school expenses are now covered by government imprest funds, eliminating any excuse for illegal levies, and warned that offenders risk losing their jobs. Kanu also announced reforms in the education sector, including training for 2,200 teachers by the Education Reformation and Innovation Team (ERIT) and the conclusion of teacher recruitment interviews for 7,000 qualified applicants and 180 persons with disabilities. In a separate development, t...

 Banana Island on Lockdown, Gridlock Hits Lekki-Ajah Axis Over Demolition Tensions Banana Island in Lagos was placed on lockdown Tuesday, with its gates sealed off, sparking major traffic congestion across the Lekki-Ajah corridor and parts of Ikoyi. The closure, captured in viral videos, has been linked to the proposed demolition of the Banana Island Club House, though conflicting reports have emerged over which government agency ordered the action. While a viral broadcast blamed Lagos authorities, the Lagos State Building Control Agency (LASBCA) denied involvement, stating no officials were on site and that no demolition had commenced. The lockdown follows recent warnings by LASBCA to remove illegal structures on the island in line with urban planning enforcement.

 South Sudan calls US visa revocation unfair, cites mistaken identity South Sudan has criticized the revocation of U.S. visas for all its nationals as unfair and said it was based on an incident that didn't involve one of its citizens but another African national, AP reported. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Saturday that the decision to revoke all visas for South Sudanese came because the country’s government failed to accept the return of its citizens being removed from the United States “promptly.” South Sudan's Foreign Ministry said in a statement Monday that the deportee who was denied U.S. entry on Friday was found to be a Congolese national. He was returned to the U.S., and all supporting evidence was shared with American officials. “The government deeply regrets that despite this history of collaboration and partnership, South Sudan now faces a broad revocation of visas based on an isolated incident involving misrepresentation by an individual who is not a Sout...

 Despite criticisms, Tinubu’s aide insists $1 is valuable in Nigeria  Tope Fasua, President Bola Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Economic Affairs, has doubled down on his controversial claim about the $1 feeding argument, saying $1 is a valuable amount in Nigeria. In a recent interview with Seun Okinbaloye, Fasua argued that many Nigerians misunderstand the concept of multi-dimensional poverty, which is often used in global poverty indices. He said that despite the high naira-dollar exchange rate, the purchasing power of local currency in Nigeria remains significant compared to the cost of living in the United States. Fasua’s submission sparked reactions, as many Nigerians criticised him for purportedly downplaying the country’s high rate of poverty and hunger. But despite the criticisms, Fasua during an interview on Arise Television on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, insisted that regardless of the country’s economic situation, $1, which is equivalent to N1,500, is valuable in Nigeria an...

 Yetunde Barnabas debunks rumours of second child with footballer husband Nollywood actress Yetunde Barnabas has dismissed rumours claiming she recently welcomed a second child with her husband, footballer Olayinka Peters. On her Instagram page, the movie star shared a screenshot of a Facebook post spreading the false news. In her response, Yetunde urged the public to verify information before sharing, noting that the arrival of such blessings should be left in God’s hands and perfect timing. She stated: “As seen on Facebook, I am not aware that I gave birth o, even though this is good news. Please stop spreading false rumours about me, and do your findings before posting. God’s time is the best”.

 Durbar Suspension: Kano Residents, Tourists, Businesses Lament Losses For the second year running, Kano’s historic Durbar festival was cancelled over security concerns, leaving residents, tourists, and businesses counting heavy cultural and economic losses. More than 160 tourists, including international visitors, expressed deep disappointment, with some having spent months preparing for the event. Traders, hoteliers, and artisans also reported significant losses due to the festival’s abrupt halt. Tourism experts and culture advocates warned that repeated cancellations threaten the legacy and global appeal of the UNESCO-recognized festival, urging authorities to find lasting solutions to restore the iconic celebration.

 Kaduna Man Narrates How He Ended Relationship Over Girlfriend’s Fake Wealthy Background, Lifestyle    A young man identified as Aliyu Jalal has taken to social media to share the experience that led to his decision to end a relationship with a lady he had been dating, citing deceit and a mismatch between her lifestyle and her true background. According to Jalal, he met the lady while she was studying at Kaduna State University (KASU), and was immediately impressed by her luxurious lifestyle, including her use of an iPhone 14 Pro Max. Assuming she came from a wealthy family, Jalal said he never questioned her spending habits or polished appearance. “I thought her parents were rich,” he wrote. “Every time I suggested visiting her house, she insisted we meet at a restaurant instead. When I asked about her background, she vaguely mentioned her family lived in GRA Malali and that her father worked at the Government House.” The situation took a dramatic turn when the lady beca...

  Natasha Sues Senator Nwaebonyi for ₦5bn Over Defamatory Remarks Suspended Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has filed a ₦5 billion defamation suit against fellow lawmaker, Senator Onyekachi Nwaebonyi, over claims that she had six children with different men. In the suit filed at the FCT High Court by her legal team led by SAN M.J. Numa, Akpoti-Uduaghan described the allegations made during a Channels TV interview on March 6, 2025, as false, malicious, and aimed at damaging her reputation. She accused Nwaebonyi, the Senate Deputy Chief Whip, of making defamatory remarks including calling her a “gold digger,” “habitual liar,” and “blackmailer,” while also alleging her husband married her under duress. Akpoti-Uduaghan, currently serving a six-month Senate suspension, claims the statements were intended to justify her suspension and discredit her petition before the Senate. She is seeking a retraction, public apology, and a perpetual injunction against further defamatory publications. ...

 Imo Assembly Urges Uzodinma to Support Returnees from Orsu After Years in Exile The Imo State House of Assembly has appealed to Governor Hope Uzodinma to provide urgent humanitarian assistance to residents of Orsu LGA who recently returned home after years of displacement caused by insecurity since 2020. The call followed a motion by Uche Francis Agabige, representing Orsu constituency, who highlighted the devastation caused by the prolonged unrest, including loss of lives, destruction of property, and displacement of residents. He commended the governor for restoring security in the area, noting that police operations have resumed fully across the LGA. Agabige urged the state to rehabilitate critical infrastructure such as roads, schools, health centres, and courts, while also calling for immediate distribution of relief materials including food, clothing, bedding, and medicine to help the returnees rebuild their lives. Following deliberation, the House resolved to urge the gover...

 13 Undocumented Foreigners Arrested for Illegal Mining in Mopani Limpopo police have arrested thirteen undocumented foreigners, two illegal miners, and one suspect for employing undocumented individuals during a series of operations held on Friday, 4 April, and Saturday, 5 April 2025. The arrests were made during patrols and stop-and-search operations at identified illegal mining sites across Mopani, Vhembe, Waterberg, and Sekhukhune Districts. In Mopani, two suspects aged 27 and 34 were caught in Makhwibidung, Maake, while allegedly loading sand into a truck. Police say the suspects failed to produce mining permits and valid passports. Items such as shovels, a spade, and a pickaxe were confiscated. In a separate incident in Lenyenye, Maake policing area, a 38-year-old was arrested for employing undocumented foreigners. Two more suspects, aged 31 and 35, were also arrested for violating immigration laws. In operations across other districts, police arrested thirteen undocumented f...

 Man Killed by Mob After Allegedly Stabbing Grandmother in Mountview, KZN A 24-year-old man was beaten to death by community members in Mountview, KwaZulu-Natal, on Monday morning after allegedly stabbing his 61-year-old grandmother during an argument over money to buy drugs. Reaction Officers were dispatched to a residence on Jackaranda Avenue around 16:21 on Sunday, where it was reported that the man had stabbed his grandmother in the neck. She was rushed to hospital for treatment. On Monday, members of the community apprehended the suspect, tied his hands and feet with rope, and fatally assaulted him using sticks and whips. According to reports, the deceased had a history of violence towards his grandmother.

 Clarification on Ongoing Investigation in Matatiele Case The Ministry of Police has noted various statements circulating on social media regarding the case of a minor in Matatiele. We wish to clarify the facts. The Minister of Police did not state that the DNA of the Bergview College principal had been taken. He mentioned that the principal was among those initially suspected, based on the first report received. He also confirmed that DNA tests had been conducted, but these were related to the minor, not specific individuals. During a briefing on Friday, the Minister announced that three persons of interest had been identified, and their samples were taken for DNA analysis. A Major-General has been deployed to ensure a thorough and professional investigation. The Ministry remains committed to a transparent and fair investigation and urges the public to rely on official updates from the police and avoid sharing unverified information. One more photo below. 

 LAGOS COMMENCES E-REGISTRATION, PAYMENT FOR YEAR 2025 UBE BY CAS, PLACEMENT TEST As part of the efforts to provide quality Education in the State, the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, through the Lagos State Examinations Board, has announced the commencement of registration for the Year 2025 Universal Basic Education by Continuous Assessment Scores (UBE BY CAS) and Placement Test from Monday, January 27 to Friday, April 25, 2025.  This was contained in a statement signed by the Director, Lagos State Examinations Board, Mr. Orunsolu Adebayo, notifying parents/guardians, head teachers, proprietors and proprietress of primary six pupils transiting into junior secondary schools (JSS). The release also contained approval of Yoruba Language as one of the subjects for testing the knowledge and thinking ability of pupils sitting for the Placement Test by CAS in the State. Mr. Orunsolu noted that only primary 6 pupils in public and approved private primary schools in the Sta...

 Young Kaduna Girl Allegedly Dumps Her Child In Ungwan Maigero A troubling incident took place in the Ungwan Maigero area of Kaduna, where a young girl reportedly dumped her child. While the full details remain unclear, initial findings suggest that the girl is a resident of the Television area in Kaduna. As at the time of filing this report, the reasons behind her actions are still unknown.

 THREE SUSPECTED KIDNAPPERS ARRESTED IN BENUE Security operatives on Sunday nabbed three suspected kidnappers in Ogoli-Ugboju community, Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State. This came on the heels of insecurity in Otukpo within the past few days. Maxwell Ogiri, the Council Chairman of Otukpo LGA, confirmed to journalists that security operatives were trailing the remaining gang members. He said, “We learnt from intelligence report that they are a gang of five kidnappers. Three have been apprehended. Security agents are going after the remaining two and their collaborators. The arrested are three members of a five-man kidnapping gang that has been terrorising Otukpo Local Government Area and surrounding communities. “Our gallant security forces chased and apprehended them today, Sunday, 6th April 2025, in Ogoli-Ugboju. The names of the criminals are Ibrahim Salleh, Ashimu and Abuh Umaru. Efforts are ongoing to track down their remaining accomplices and local collaborators.” ...

 LAWMA PARTNERS UNIDO, FBRA TO TACKLE MENACE OF PLASTIC WASTE  … Signs Position Paper To Formalize Collaboration The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), has partnered with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) and the Food and Beverage Recycling Alliance (FBRA), to promote sustainable plastic waste management in Lagos State, through circular economy practices. The initiative tagged UNIDO Project 210184: “Promoting Sustainable Plastic Value Chains through Circular Economy Practices”, is funded by the Government of Japan, seeking to strengthen Nigeria’s capacity for inclusive and sustainable industrial development, by addressing plastic pollution at source. As part of the project, four plastic waste collection facilities and 30 designated collection points will be established across the Lekki and Lagos Mainland municipalities, while LAWMA will provide the land and essential infrastructure, as UNIDO and FBRA will co-finance the development, and lead...