PINK REPUBLIC/ MY BLOG IS A STORY MARATHON.

 Sean Combs to appeal 50-month sentence in federal court, arguing First Amendment and acquittal claims  Nine months after being convicted in New York for transporting escorts across state lines for drug-fueled sex parties, Sean “Diddy” Combs is set to appear in a federal appeals court on Thursday to challenge his 50-month prison sentence. Acquitted last year of more serious charges, including sex trafficking and racketeering conspiracy, Combs argues that the judge overstepped by considering conduct for which the jury found him not guilty. His legal team contends the sentence is “unlawful, unconstitutional, and a perversion of justice,” claiming that his sexual activities were protected under the First Amendment as “typical amateur pornography.” Combs’ appeal also challenges the length of his sentence, which prosecutors say was appropriate given the violent treatment of his victims. After a two-month trial, the jury convicted him of two lesser counts of transportation to engage...

 Ceasefire in Iran war falters as Israel strikes Beirut, Strait of Hormuz remains blocked, and nuclear questions linger  A fragile ceasefire in the Iran war faced major strains Thursday as Israel carried out heavy airstrikes on Beirut, Iran maintained control over the Strait of Hormuz, and questions lingered over whether upcoming talks on Saturday could secure common ground. Both Iran and the U.S., which declared victory following Tuesday’s ceasefire announcement, appeared to leverage pressure: semiofficial Iranian agencies suggested the Strait of Hormuz had been mined, while President Donald Trump warned of intensified U.S. strikes if Tehran failed to honor the deal. Disputes also emerged over whether the ceasefire covered hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah. Wednesday’s Israeli airstrikes on central Beirut marked the deadliest day in Lebanon since the conflict began on February 28, killing at least 203 people and wounding more than 1,000. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin...

 Canada’s KitKat shipment gets presidential-style escort after Europe chocolate heist A shipment of KitKat bars in Canada got a playful presidential-style escort after a massive chocolate heist in Europe. Last week, more than 400,000 KitKat bars—over 12 tons—were stolen during a European shipment, and the truck and its cargo remain missing, raising concerns the candy could appear on unofficial markets. KitKat Canada embraced the moment with humor, posting a “hiring notice” for security guards with “big break energy” to protect their high-value chocolate. On Wednesday, the company shared a video showing a KitKat truck escorted by a security detail in Canada, with text reading, “When the chocolate's THIS good, you've got to call back up.” Nestlé noted that while the heist might seem whimsical, cargo theft is a growing problem, and going public with the story helps raise awareness about increasingly sophisticated theft schemes targeting businesses.

 GOV. ALIA OFFERS FREE MEALS IN MAKURDI RESTAURANTS  Governor Fr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia has announced free meals at two popular Makurdi restaurants, Kilimanjaro and Amala Spot, along Iyorchia-Ayu Road, today. The initiative aims to support residents and foster community goodwill. Patrons at both restaurants were treated to complimentary meals, drawing large crowds eager to partake in the offer. A spokesperson from the governor’s office said the gesture reflects the administration’s commitment to social welfare and promoting local businesses. “Governor Alia believes in giving back to the people and encouraging community engagement,” the spokesperson said. Residents expressed gratitude for the initiative, praising the governor for his concern for the welfare of the people. The free meal offer will run throughout the day, after which both restaurants will resume normal operations. This initiative is part of the state government’s broader efforts to promote social support and unity...

 Kaduna South Senatorial Aspirant, Engr. Michael Ayuba Auta Withdraws, Endorses Senator Danjuma La’ah Kaduna South Senatorial aspirant, Engr. Michael Ayuba Auta, has formally withdrawn his candidacy and thrown his support behind Distinguished Senator Danjuma La’ah. The announcement was made following an emergency meeting of the APC Southern Kaduna Aspirants Consultative Forum (SKACF), held at New Choice Multipurpose Hall in Kafanchan.  The meeting convened key APC stakeholders from across Southern Kaduna, including aspirants for the Senate, House of Representatives, State House of Assembly, as well as party leaders at ward, local government, and zonal levels. Under the leadership of Senator La’ah, the forum focused on promoting unity, mutual understanding, and safeguarding the collective political interests of Southern Kaduna ahead of the 2027 general elections. A major discussion point was the circulation of unfounded rumors suggesting that certain aspirants had been granted ...

  GOVERNOR INUWA YAHAYA DISSOLVES CABINET The transformation of the jewel in the savannah in the past three years is the collective hard work of members of the state executive council.  Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya stated this while thanking  the state executive council members, as he announced the dissolution of the state cabinet at the fifty third Gombe state executive council meeting. Emmanuel Akila reports that the cabinet members appreciated the opportunity to serve the state in various capacities.                     The council meeting chaired by governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya takes a comprehensive review of members performance since their inauguration, assessing their contributions to the overall development of the state in about three years.  In a farewell address, governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya announced  dissolution of the state executive council. The seventeen dissolved commissioners were di...

NAPTIP RESCUES WOMAN FROM SPOUSAL BATTERY IN ABUJA Rapid Response Squad Intervenes Swiftly at Asokoro Extension, Commences Investigation ABUJA, NIGERIA – APRIL 9, 2026: The National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons VICTIM (NAPTIP), through its Rapid Response Squad (RRS), has rescued a 36- year-old woman from a case of spousal battery at Asokoro Extension, Abuja. The suspect, identified as Mr. Godwin, a 48-year-old male, was reported to have physically assaulted the victim, who is his wife. Preliminary findings indicate that the couple has been married for 22 years. Further checks revealed that both the suspect and the victim are of Benue State origin, from Kenshishe.  The intervention followed credible information received by the Agency, prompting a swift response by the NAPTIP Rapid Response Squad, which successfully rescued the victim from the abusive environment and moved her to safety for necessary care and support. NAPTIP has since commenced necessary proce...

 Caitlyn Jenner admits she 'hasn't spent a lot of time' with Timothée Chalamet despite approving of daughter Kylie's relationship: 'He's a nice guy' Caitlyn Jenner recently shared her approval of Kylie Jenner’s relationship with actor Timothée Chalamet, praising him as a “really nice guy” and “great kid” during an appearance on the Tomi Lahren Is Fearless podcast.  Jenner said she hasn’t spent much time with the couple but is happy for them, adding that Kylie is “in a really good place” with Chalamet.  As a parent, she expressed hope that the relationship continues, noting it has been “quite a ride” for her daughter. Jenner explained that Kylie’s success in her relationship stems from both partners being high achievers.  She recalled advising her daughters that finding someone on their “scale” would be difficult, but emphasized that Kylie has found that balance with Chalamet.  Earlier this year, Jenner also told paparazzi at Los Angeles International Airport...

 Michelle Obama bluntly describes the 'new version' of America with a 5-letter word Michelle Obama reflected on the current state of the United States during a conversation with comedian Hasan Minhaj on her show IMO with Michelle Obama and Craig Robinson.  She described the nation as being in a “janky” era, but emphasized that each phase of the country’s evolution contributes to growth.  Obama explained that new versions of America don’t erase the old ones, but instead offer opportunities to learn and adapt. Minhaj agreed, humorously adding that things are “super jank” right now. Despite acknowledging challenges, Obama struck an optimistic tone, pointing to examples of communities standing together in difficult times.  She highlighted Minnesota as a powerful reminder of what people can accomplish when they unite to protect one another.  According to her, moments of struggle reveal the strength of collective action, something that isn’t always visible when circum...

Catherine O’Hara’s Brother Shares Heartbreaking Final Days Before Her Death New details about Catherine O’Hara’s final days have been shared by her brother, offering a deeply personal glimpse into the actress’s final chapter. Michael P. O’Hara recently opened up about the beloved star’s last days, revealing that communication had become increasingly limited toward the end of her life. According to him, his sister had grown quiet and no longer spent much time speaking on the phone. He explained that distance also made things harder, as Catherine had been living in Los Angeles while the family remained elsewhere. What has moved many fans, however, is Michael’s account of a dream he experienced just days before her passing. In that dream, he said he was embracing his sister in what felt like a tender and emotional farewell. For him, the moment carried the feeling of a final goodbye, even before the news of her passing came. After her de@th, Michael said he had another vivid dream, one tha...

  James McAvoy hits the red carpet with wife Lisa Liberati for his directorial debut California Schemin’ after revealing they secretly welcomed a son together four years ago James McAvoy made a striking appearance alongside his wife, Lisa Liberati, as the couple stepped onto the red carpet for the premiere of his directorial debut, California Schemin’. The Scottish actor looked relaxed and proud as he arrived at the Odeon Luxe in Leicester Square on Wednesday, with Lisa by his side. James opted for a sharp black suit, while Lisa turned heads in a shimmering silver sequined top paired with black flared trousers. The outing comes shortly after James revealed that he and Lisa quietly welcomed their son, a family update that had remained private for the past four years. Opening up about becoming a father again later in life, James admitted that parenting in his forties feels very different from his first experience. The actor, who also shares 15-year-old son Brendan with ex-wife Anne-M...

 So Proud of My Baby Girl - John Travolta Celebrates Daughter Ella Bleu After Red Carpet Appearance John Travolta is proudly celebrating his daughter Ella Bleu after her recent red carpet appearance and growing success in film. The veteran actor took to Instagram to share his excitement after Ella attended the Fashion Trust U.S. Awards in Los Angeles, where she made a striking appearance on the pink carpet. Posting a photo of his daughter from the event, Travolta wrote a heartfelt message, describing how proud he is of her and teasing fans about her upcoming role in his directorial debut, Propeller One-Way Night Coach. Ella, 26, later shared her own photos from the night, giving fans a closer look at her elegant black gown, which featured floral embellishments and a high-neck design. The glamorous event also drew several familiar faces from Hollywood, but it was Ella’s growing presence in the industry that caught special attention. Her latest appearance comes as excitement builds a...

 17-YEAR-OLD IGEDE GIRL DECLARED MISSING IN LAGOS, FAMILY RAISES ALARM  A 17-year-old girl, identified as Onah Precious, has been reported missing in Lagos, sparking concern among family members and her community. Precious, who hails from Opirikwu Odiapa Ito in Benue State, was last seen on March 30, 2026. Since then, there has been no confirmed contact or information about her whereabouts. Her sudden disappearance has triggered an urgent appeal to the public, with relatives calling for immediate assistance in locating her. According to available details, the teenager was in Lagos at the time she went missing. However, circumstances surrounding her disappearance remain unclear, raising fears about her safety. Family sources describe her as vulnerable due to her age, stressing the need for swift action to trace her location. Members of the public who may have seen her or have any useful information are strongly advised to report to the nearest police station or call 08147070923...

 BENUE-BOUND TRAVELLER MISSING, FAMILY RAISES ALARM OVER N30M RANSOM DEMAND The family of Imoter Barnabas Terkaa has raised alarm over his disappearance after he reportedly went missing while travelling from Lagos to Benue State, with suspected kidnappers demanding a ransom of N30 million. Terkaa, said to be a staff member at Jason’s Lounge located along Kajola Road, Ogba, Lagos, reportedly embarked on the journey a few days ago. According to family sources, he lost contact with his wife while travelling between Otukpa and Otukpo Local Government Areas of Benue State. A day after communication was lost, the victim’s wife reportedly received a phone call from unknown persons demanding N30 million for his release. However, since that initial contact, the suspected kidnappers have neither called back nor remained reachable, raising concerns over the victim’s safety. The family, through the Mdzough u Tiv (MUT) Lagos State Chapter, said critical details such as the transport company or ...

 Ethiopians win case against Trump on deportations Ethiopians have won a crucial court case against the Donald Trump administration over its attempts to expel them from the US. A US federal judge on Wednesday, 8 April, blocked a move to end legal protections granted to over 5,000 Ethiopians under a policy known as Temporary Protected Status (TPS), TRT Afrika reported. The programme, which was first introduced in 1990, allows immigrants to live and work in the United States and protects them from being deported. It is available to people whose home countries have experienced natural disasters, armed conflicts or other extraordinary events that put them at risk. Over the years, thousands of migrants, mainly from Africa, Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean, have benefited. Immigration crackdown However, the Trump administration, pursuing an immigration crackdown under its "America First" agenda, has sought to scrap the long-standing policy for nationals of at least 13 countrie...

 U.S approves embassy staff departure from Nigeria citing security risks The US Department of State has authorised non-emergency US government employees and their family members to leave the US Embassy in Abuja, citing a deteriorating security situation across Nigeria, AFP reported. In an updated travel advisory, the department noted that, Americans are advised to reconsider travel to the country due to crime, terrorism, kidnapping, and civil unrest. The advisory classified the overall travel advisory for Nigeria as “Level 3: Reconsider Travel,” while some states are at “Level 4: Do Not Travel.” The department also added Plateau, Jigawa, Kwara, Niger, and Taraba states to the list of “Do Not Travel” areas, bringing the total to 23 states where travel is strongly discouraged. Level 4 states that US citizens are urged to avoid include, in the North, Borno, Jigawa, Kogi, Kwara, Niger, Plateau, Taraba, Yobe, and northern Adamawa states, due to terrorism, crime, and kidnapping. The advi...

 Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Nwifuru, has warned that only aspirants with undeniable and visible achievements in their current or previous positions will be supported by the All Progressives Congress (APC) to contest the 2027 general elections in the state. Governor Nwifuru made the declaration on Wednesday while joining the Deputy Chief Whip of the Senate and Senator representing Ebonyi North Senatorial District, Chief Peter Onyekachi Nwebonyi, to commission several constituency projects. Represented by the Ebonyi State Chairman of the APC, Chief Stanley Okoro Emegha, the governor stated that the era of recycling non-performing leaders is over, warning that the party will not repeat the mistakes of 2023. “The time for stock-taking has come, and only those with results and visible achievements will be considered again to fly our party’s tickets for the next general elections,” he said. “Those who have nothing to show for their years of representation will have themselves to blam...

 Nnamdi Kanu’s Appeal Against Life Sentence Reaches Court of Appeal, Lawyer Gives Update on Next Steps The legal team of Nnamdi Kanu, leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has formally notified the Court of Appeal of its intention to challenge the life imprisonment sentence handed down to him by a Federal High Court in Abuja. Aloy Ejimakor, counsel to Kanu, disclosed this in a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Wednesday. According to Ejimakor, the Grounds of Appeal were filed since February 2026, thereby officially commencing the appellate process against the November 20, 2025 judgment of Justice James Omotosho. The Federal High Court had convicted Kanu on all seven counts, including running a proscribed organisation and inciting violence, and sentenced him to life imprisonment. The court had also affirmed its jurisdiction despite claims of unlawful rendition. Ejimakor revealed that the Record of Appeal — which includes the charge sheet, full proceedings, exhi...

 AIRWAVES MUST REMAIN A SANCTUARY FOR TRUTH, NOT A MEGAPHONE FOR CHAOS — INEC CHAIRMAN WARNS BROADCASTERS The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Prof. Joash Amupitan, SAN, has cautioned broadcast media organisations against the spread of misinformation, warning that the integrity of the 2027 General Election will depend significantly on how responsibly Nigeria’s airwaves are managed. Speaking on Tuesday, April 8, 2026, at the 81st General Assembly of the Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria, the INEC Chairman stressed that the information space has become a critical battleground in modern elections. He noted that the greatest threat to credible polls may no longer be physical disruptions, but the rapid spread of false information amplified through unverified broadcasts. Prof. Amupitan emphasised the need for strict compliance with the Electoral Act 2026, particularly provisions guiding political broadcasting. He drew attention to statutory obligations requi...

 “Work Not Finished!” — Governor Otti Declares 2027 Re-Election Bid, Slams Opposition ‘Witchcraft Politics’ Abia State Governor Dr Alex Otti has made it clear: he is seeking a second term in 2027 because his administration still has significant unfinished work to deliver on its promise to transform the state. The governor stated he would not have considered re-election if he had completed all the projects and reforms he set out to achieve. “If I had finished the work that I came to do, I wouldn’t be seeking a second term,” Governor Otti declared at his country home in Nvosi, Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area. He was addressing a massive 10,000-man solidarity march organised by stakeholders from the area, convened by Mr Dannie Ubani, the Labour Party candidate for Isiala Ngwa South State Constituency in the 2023 elections. Otti emphasised that his administration’s mission to reposition Abia remains ongoing, adding that completing the transformation agenda requires more time. W...

 “Nigeria is Dying, Save It!” — Thousands of Youths Storm Jonathan’s Abuja Office, Beg Ex-President to Run in 2027 In a dramatic show of support, thousands of Nigerian youths and civil society organisations on Wednesday stormed the Abuja office of former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, passionately urging him to contest the 2027 presidential election. The large crowd, operating under the banner of the Coalition for Goodluck Jonathan, took over sections of the capital city, chanting slogans, dancing to popular Nigerian songs, and brandishing placards with emotionally charged messages. Some of the placards read: “GEJ: Nigeria is dying, save it!”, “GEJ, Nigerian youths break the medicine wey dem do you,” and the blunt warning: “GEJ, if you no run, we quench.” The protesters, who caused heavy traffic disruption around Taraba Close, near Tanganyika Street, extending to Farmers Market and IBB Way, waited for over three hours in the hope of meeting the former president. However, Jonath...

 PRESS RELEASE  April 8, 2026 DISCLAIMER ON PURPORTED MEETING WITH AFRICAN DEMOCRATIC (ADC) The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has noted with concern the circulation of misleading reports alleging that it held a meeting with the African Democratic Congress (ADC). The PDP categorically states that it has not held any meeting, formal or informal with the ADC or any of its representatives.  The PDP firmly states that no such meeting was convened or authorized by the Party. Any persons reported to have participated in such engagements did so purely in their individual capacities and cannot be deemed to represent the PDP in any form. Accordingly, the Party urges its members, supporters, and the general public to disregard these baseless claims, as they do not reflect the position or activities of the Party. Furthermore, the PDP wishes to inform its members that preparations for the conduct of Party primaries have progressed significantly. Further details regarding timelines an...

 Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has strongly cautioned critics against politicising the Ibom Deep Seaport project, stressing that his administration remains fully committed to bringing the over 20-year-old initiative to fruition. While receiving the Ibom Deep Seaport feasibility report in Uyo on Wednesday, Governor Eno linked his administration’s closer engagement with the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led Federal Government to the accelerated realisation of the project. He argued that strategic alignment with the centre is crucial for fast-tracking infrastructure development of this magnitude. However, the governor acknowledged ongoing criticism regarding the pace of work, even amid perceived federal alignment. “Port development anywhere in the world is not a sprint but a marathon,” Eno said, adding that his administration is determined to ensure the project “sees the light of day.” He paid glowing tributes to past leaders who laid the foundation for the seaport, including ...

 Hawaii braces for flash flooding as new Kona Low brings heavy rain, thunderstorms, and strong winds Hawaii is facing renewed flash flooding threats as another Kona Low develops, bringing heavy rainfall to islands already saturated from recent storms. This follows back-to-back Kona Lows last month that caused dangerous flooding on Maui and Oahu. Several inches of rain have already fallen on Maui and the Big Island, with Pāhoa Beacon recording 11.4 inches since Tuesday. Flash flood alerts are in effect across all Hawaiian islands through Friday, and a Flash Flood Warning covers the southeastern tip of Maui. Through Sunday, more than a foot of rain is expected in parts of the Big Island, with widespread 5–8 inches across other areas. These conditions could lead to overflowing streams, damaged drainage systems, road closures, property damage in urban and low-lying areas, and landslides in steep terrain. The heavy rain that came after March marked the wettest month on record for severa...

 ‎World Health Day and Imperative of Subnational Innovation: The Soludo Example ‎ ‎By Felix Igboanugo ‎ ‎As the world marked World Health Day, the conversation in Nigeria must move beyond broad national challenges to spotlight subnational leadership driving meaningful change. In an era where states increasingly shape development outcomes, the health sector offers a compelling case for innovation at the grassroots. One example attracting attention is the reform-oriented approach of Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo in Anambra State. ‎ ‎Governor Soludo’s health agenda reflects a growing recognition that effective governance is measured not only by policy articulation but by tangible improvements in citizens’ quality of life. His administration’s emphasis on strengthening primary healthcare systems aligns with global priorities championed by the World Health Organization; particularly the pursuit of universal health coverage through accessible, community-based care. ‎ ‎Central to this ...

 An Arkansas Chief of Police is under fire for slapping and choking a paraplegic. He officially resigned from his position today.  Chief Robert Ephlin had only been on the job for a short two weeks before becoming embroiled in controversy. The incident in question occurred on Monday, April 6th, when police responded to a report of a fight between teens. The incident was captured on video. Damarius Williams is the man on the receiving end of Ephlin's violent outburst. Damarius is paralyzed from the waist down after being shot in the back in 2013. He is the man in the wheelchair, pictured below. The former chief is in front of him with the red lights on his face and torso. When officers responded to the neighborhood, Damarius's wife and son were handcuffed and ultimately arrested. Damarius was calmly asking to get more information on those arrests when he was screamed at, slapped and choked by Ephlin.  Damaruis stated that former Chief Ephlin was sticking his finger in Dama...

 " I killed the murder fucker." A Florida man showed up to work Monday morning and fatally str*ngled his boss with a tank top.  Officers in Venice, Florida, received the report of two men fighting early Monday morning on the 200 block of Grove Steet South. When officers arrived on the scene, they discovered 42-year-old Richard Barker (pictured below looking way too happy in a mugshot) in an F-150 with a trailer attached. A closer look revealed the trailer had been backed up to 67-year-old Jeffrey Hubbard, who was covered with a sleeping bag and had a tank top around his neck. Richard backed his trailer up in an attempt to load his deceased boss onto the trailer.  Officers quickly ordered Barker out of the truck. He instantly complied, placing his hands on his head while exclaiming, "I killed the m***erf***er." He then readily admitted to showing up with the intent to take Hubbard's life. Barker explained he approached Hubbard and attacked him while wearing a mot...