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 South Korean police seek arrest warrant for Hybe chairman Bang Si-Hyuk over alleged $100 million investor fraud scheme    South Korean police are seeking an arrest warrant for Bang Si-Hyuk, the billionaire music executive behind K-pop powerhouse Hybe and BTS, as part of an expanding investigation into allegations that he improperly benefited from an investor scheme involving more than $100 million. Authorities said they have asked prosecutors to pursue a court warrant for Bang’s arrest as they continue probing claims that he misled investors in 2019. Investigators allege he told investors that Hybe had no plans for an initial public offering, leading them to sell shares to a private equity fund. The company later went public, and police suspect a separate arrangement may have resulted in Bang receiving a substantial payout tied to post-IPO stock profits. Bang’s legal team has not directly addressed the specific allegations but said he has cooperated with investigators an...

Prince remembered 10 years after death as Paisley Park marks anniversary of music icon’s passing It has been 10 years since the death of music icon Prince, who was found unresponsive at his Paisley Park estate in Minnesota at the age of 57. Born Prince Rogers Nelson, the Grammy-winning artist rose to global fame with landmark hits including “When Doves Cry,” “1999” and “Purple Rain,” becoming one of the most influential performers of his generation. He was discovered on April 21, 2016, at his home and studio in Chanhassen, Minnesota, where emergency responders were unable to revive him. A later autopsy determined he died from a fentanyl overdose. News of his death prompted worldwide mourning, with tributes pouring in from fans, fellow musicians, and public figures, including then-President Barack Obama. Obama described Prince as a rare talent whose influence reshaped popular music and whose artistry defied convention, praising his creativity and cultural impact. Over his career, Prince...

 UK approves sweeping law to ban cigarette sales for future generations  The United Kingdom has taken a major step toward eliminating smoking among future generations after lawmakers approved sweeping legislation that bans the sale of cigarettes and other tobacco products to anyone born on or after Jan. 1, 2009. The measure, one of the most aggressive anti-tobacco efforts globally, ensures that today’s children will never be legally sold cigarettes. It also outlaws the sale and supply of herbal smoking products and cigarette papers to the same age group, while introducing a nationwide ban on snus, an oral tobacco product. The law establishes strict enforcement measures, including fines for retailers who fail to verify ages and harsher penalties for repeat violations, with courts given the authority to suspend businesses from selling tobacco or vaping products for up to a year. The legislation significantly expands government oversight of vaping, granting officials the power to...

 Gunman at Mexico’s Teotihuacan site kills one, wounds seven in suspected copycat attack tied to U.S violence A gunman who carried out a deadly attack at one of Mexico’s most visited tourist destinations was likely influenced by violent incidents in the United States, according to officials. The shooting unfolded late Monday morning at the Teotihuacan pyramids, an archaeological site outside Mexico City, where the suspect opened fire on visitors from atop one of the structures. Armed with a revolver, he reportedly reloaded multiple times during the attack before ultimately taking his own life. Authorities said one person was killed and seven others were wounded by gunfire, while several more were injured amid the chaos as people fled the scene. Investigators identified the suspect as Julio César Jaso Ramírez and said he acted alone in what appears to have been a planned assault, not connected to organized crime. Officials said he had previously visited the site multiple times and s...

 Constitutional Council confirms Djibouti president's 97% vote win Djibouti's President Ismail Omar Guelleh was officially confirmed as winner of a sixth straight election with a final tally of 97.01% of the vote, the Constitutional Council said on Tuesday, AFP reported. Guelleh, 78, has governed the strategically important country in the Horn of Africa since 1999. Initial results a few hours after the April 10 vote showed he had taken 97.81%, against just one opponent. "In this election, President Guelleh obtained 97.01 percent of the vote, for a total of 204,874 votes cast. His main opponent, Mohamed Farah Samatar, received 6,318 votes, or 2.99% of the total," Djibouti's official press agency said, citing the Constitutional Council. Strategic location Djibouti borders the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait, which provides access to the Red Sea from the Gulf of Aden, through which passes a large portion of trade between Asia and the West. Djibouti has just over a million inhab...

 STATEHOUSE PRESS RELEASE ENUGU’S POLITICAL LEADERS PLEDGE SUPPORT FOR PRESIDENT TINUBU IN 2027 Political leaders from Enugu State on Tuesday pledged unalloyed support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's re-election in 2027. The leaders, representing the state’s seven million citizens, made this pledge when Governor Peter Mbah led them to a meeting with President Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. The high-powered delegation included Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr Kingsley Tochukwu Udeh, Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, former Senate President, Sen. Ken Nnamani, former Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ikechukwu Ogalla, former Governors of Enugu State, Sullivan Chime and Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, former Governor of old Anambra State, Jim Nwobodo. Others on the delegation were members of the National Assembly, former ministers, traditional and religious leaders, and academics. Some of the leaders came with their spouses. President Tinu...

 167 SENIOR OFFICERS FACE FORCE DISCIPLINARY COMMITTEE The Nigeria Police Force has commenced the sitting of the Force Disciplinary Committee (FDC) to review pending disciplinary matters involving one hundred and sixty-seven (167) senior police officers over alleged breaches of professional conduct and other related offences. The exercise, which is currently underway at the Force Headquarters, Abuja, is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen internal accountability, enforce discipline, and uphold professional standards across the Nigeria Police Force. The Force Disciplinary Committee, a key internal mechanism, is responsible for the review and determination of cases involving senior officers of the rank of Assistant Superintendent of Police and above. The process ensures a thorough, transparent, and fair examination of all matters in accordance with extant laws and regulations, with appropriate recommendations to the Police Service Commission. The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Ol...

The King and Queen, together with Members of The Royal Family, have hosted a reception in honour of the 100th anniversary of the birth of Queen Elizabeth II at Buckingham Palace.   Amongst guests were representatives of The late Queen’s former charities and patronages, as well as some very special centenarians, who are celebrating their 100th birthday today. 🎂 It was a delight to come together and share memories from the past 100 years! Watch video below. 

 Cynthia Shange, first Black South African at Miss World, passes at 76 Cynthia Shange has passed at the age of 76, leaving behind a legacy that shaped representation in South Africa and beyond. Her d!ath was confirmed in an official statement by South Africa’s Ministry of Sport, Arts and Culture, which described her as a figure whose influence stretched across acting, modelling, and cultural identity.  The message highlighted how her presence helped open doors at a time when many were still shut. Shange’s name became widely known after she stepped onto the global stage at the Miss World 1972 pageant.  That moment carried weight, she became the first Black woman to represent South Africa at the competition, a move that resonated far beyond the pageant itself. According to the government, her appearance during that period stood as a powerful statement for Black South Africans and for women pushing into spaces where they had long been excluded. Minister Gayton McKenzie refle...

 LSSC COLLABORATES WITH PRIVATE SECTOR ON RUGBY GAME  The Lagos State Sports Commission (LSSC) Director-General, Mr. Lekan Fatodu, has said the agency is collaborating with the private sector to develop Rugby Game which has numerous talents among the youths in Lagos State. Mr. Lekan Fatodu disclosed this at the Rugby Exhibition African Women All-Star team against the Falcons of Nigeria match which was organised by Alaro City, Rendeavour with the support of Lagos State Sport Commission.  The Agency’s profound involvement in the All-Star Game, according to the Director-General, was born out of its commitment to supporting, promoting and developing mass participation in all sports across the State.  He said, “We know the significance of rugby. We have a lot of talents in Lagos State whose sporting interest is actually in rugby. The Lagos State Sport Commission is committed to supporting and promoting mass participation in all sports. So, we want to support in terms of o...

 PRESS RELEASE  OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY TO THE GOVERNMENT OF THE FEDERATION  Tinubu approves minor cabinet reshuffle as Edun, Dangiwa leave FEC .....Oyedele elevated to Finance Minister; Darma ministerial nominee President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved a minor cabinet reshuffle in the membership of the Federal Executive Council. According to a memo signed by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, two cabinet members, Mr. Wale Edun and Arc. Ahmed Musa Dangiwa are to leave the cabinet while their replacements have been named. Edun, until the latest development, was the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister for the Economy. He has been directed to hand over to Mr. Taiwo Oyedele who is now to take over as Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy. Oyedele was formerly a Minister of State in the ministry. Also Mr. Muttaqha Rabe Darma (PhD .) has been named as the ministerial nominee and minister designate for the Ho...

 EFCC Grills Suspected Fake Lawyer for  Forged NBA Seal in  Lagos Operatives of the Lagos Zonal Directorate 2 of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission EFCC, Ikoyi, Lagos  have commenced an investigation of a suspected fake lawyer, John Anoruo, for possession of a forged seal of the Nigerian Bar Association, NBA.  Anoruo, who operates a legal and educational consultancy in the Ikorodu area of Lagos, was arrested by EFCC operatives on Monday, April 20, 2026. His case began after he submitted a petition dated September 22, 2025 to the EFCC, on behalf of his clients, against the management of a company, Global West Vessel Specialist Nigeria Limited. However, investigations revealed that both the petition and the subsequent Letter of Withdrawal dated March 5, 2026, bore a forged seal of the Nigerian Bar Association, NBA, which Anoruo confessed to have obtained from an undisclosed business centre in Lagos. During investigations,the 55-year-old claimed that alth...

  In a recent development, President Bola Tinubu has approved a limited cabinet reshuffle, resulting in the removal of Wale Edun and Ahmed Musa Dangiwa from the Federal Executive Council, according to a memo signed by Senator George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation.  Taiwo Oyedele, formerly Minister of State for Finance, has been elevated to Minister of Finance, taking over from Wale Edun, who previously held the dual role of Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy.  Meanwhile, Muttaqha Rabe Darma has been appointed to succeed Dangiwa at the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development.

 OPERATION EASTERN SANITY: TROOPS ARREST IPOB KINGPIN ALLEGEDLY RESPONSIBLE FOR DEATH OF A POLICEMAN IN DELTA STATE In a sustained offensive and  concerted efforts to rid the South East and environs  of criminal elements, troops of Sector 2, Operation UDO KA operating  in the ongoing Operation EASTERN SANITY in Ebonyi State have successfully arrested a notorious Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and Eastern Security Network (ESN) kingpin popularly known as 'Calamity' and four others during a raid on the terrorists' hideout in Nwofe, Izzi Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, in the early hours of today, 21 April 2026.  The operation was conducted following credible intelligence that linked the suspect and his cohort to the killing of a police officer and the injury of another during an attack at Okuku-Igbo in Oshimili North LGA, Delta State on 26 February 2026. During that attack, the assailants carted away two AK-47 rifles. In an attempt to evade arrest after...

Alleged N10b Kogi Fraud: Ali Bello’s New Counsel Stalls Trial The trial of Ali Bello, nephew of the former governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Adoza Bello before Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court, Maitama, Abuja, was stalled on Tuesday, April 21, 2026 following an adjournment at the request of his new counsel, Ahmed Raji, SAN, to enable him familiarize himself with the facts of the case. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, is prosecuting Ali Bello, who is also the chief of Staff to the governor of Kogi State governor, Usman Ododo, alongside Dauda Sulaiman on amended 16-count charge, bordering on misappropriation and money laundering to the tune of ₦10,270,556,800.00 (Ten Billion, Two Hundred and Seventy Million, Five Hundred and Fifty-six Thousand, Eight Hundred Naira). At the start of the proceedings, the new defence counsel informed the court that he was briefed on the matter just the previous day and needed time to go through the case file to familiarize hi...

 Malami:  Judge Threatens Contempt, Warns Counsel Against Unruly Conduct Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court, Maitama, Abuja, on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, warned counsel appearing before her against engaging in conduct capable of stalling proceedings, threatening to invoke the court’s contempt powers where necessary. The warning came during proceedings in a matter involving the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC and a former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, over properties linked to him. At the hearing, counsel to the EFCC, J.S. Okutepa, SAN, informed the court that he had earlier received a call from lead defence counsel, J.B. Daudu, SAN, notifying him of his engagement at the Court of Appeal on time-sensitive matters and indicating that a representative would attend with a letter to that effect. “My Lord, I came and met the letter which was given to us, showing that he is before the Court of Appeal in two ...

 Public Alert About Impersonators, Fake EFCC Sting Operations  The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, is constrained to alert the public about increasing waves of attack on its image by criminal characters parading themselves as officers of the Commission in different guises.  Intelligence available to the Commission showed that several ingenious but fraudulent means are being employed by dark characters to besmirch the reputation of the EFCC.  For instance, there is a gang of fraudsters now operating around popular Eateries or funspots  in our major cities.  Their modus operandi is laying ambush for innocent youths coming out of the Eateries and harassing them on unfounded suspicions of being internet fraudsters and dispossessing them of their valuables.  These characters usually portray the identities of authentic EFCC officers by dressing in fake uniforms and moving their victims to locations bearing fictitious resemblance to an EFCC of...

 PRESS RELEASE NAF AIR STRIKES KILL SEVERAL TERRORISTS HIDING IN YUWE AXIS OF SAMBISA FOREST The Nigerian Air Force (NAF), through the Air Component of Operation HADIN KAI, has sustained intense pressure on terrorist elements in the North-East, with a precision air strike on 19 April 2026 eliminating several fighters concealed within the Yuwe axis of the Sambisa Forest. The operation followed credible intelligence corroborated by Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR), which confirmed the presence of active terrorist elements within fortified structures and bunkers. NAF air assets engaged the targets with precision munitions, destroying the structures, neutralising multiple terrorists, and eliminating key logistics facilities as confirmed by subsequent Battle Damage Assessment. The sustained tempo of air operations continues to degrade terrorist networks, leaving the terrorists increasingly exposed and disrupted, with mounting pressure forcing them into desperate and r...

 NAF BOOSTS AEROMEDICAL EVACUATION RESPONSE FOR COUNTER-TERRORISM OPERATIONS THROUGH USAF TRAINING IN OHIO The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has commenced specialised aeromedical evacuation training for its Nursing Officers at the United States Air Force School of Aerospace Medicine, Dayton, Ohio, facilitated through the Office of Security Cooperation at the United States Embassy, Abuja. The ongoing training effort is directly reinforcing NAF counter-terrorism operations, where rapid casualty evacuation and effective in-flight medical care are critical to sustaining operational momentum, safeguarding personnel, and preserving combat effectiveness across active theatres. The programme delivers specialised, mission-oriented competencies required for efficient aeromedical evacuation within contemporary air power frameworks. It encompasses operational planning, safety and contingency protocols, crew resource management, and comprehensive patient care in the air environment. Conducted under ...

 First Lady Celebrates Moji Makanjuola @ 70 Nigeria's First Lady Oluremi Tinubu has extended her warm felicitations to a veteran broadcaster, Moji Makanjuola as she turns 70. In her congratulatory  message, the First Lady describes the celebrant, Moji, as a doyen of broadcasting, whose consistency, dedication, grace, and contributions to her profession continue to inspire those in the industry and women in general. She wishes her many more years in divine health, peace, joy and prosperity.

PRESIDENT TINUBU FELICITATES WITH EX-ABIA GOVERNOR, ORJI UZOR KALU ON HIS BIRTHDAY President Bola Tinubu has congratulated his friend and political ally, Dr Orji Uzor Kalu, former Abia State governor and Senator representing Abia North in the National Assembly, on his birthday. In a statement by Bayo Onanuga Special Adviser to the President, Information & Strategy, "The President notes the Senator's immense contributions to national development and commitment to the development of Abia State, which he served as governor from 1999 to 2007." It adds, in the Senate, Orji Kalu had previously served as Chief Whip and now chairs the Senate Committee on Southeast Development Commission (SEDC). SEDC is one of the regional development commissions established by President Tinubu to accelerate the growth and development of the regions. President Tinubu commends Senator Orji Uzor Kalu's vision, resilience, industry and service to the nation and commitment to the progress of A...

 PRESIDENT TINUBU CONGRATULATES EX-CHIEF OF NAVAL STAFF, VICE ADMIRAL AWWAL  GAMBO, ON HIS 60TH BIRTHDAY President Bola Tinubu has congratulated Retired Vice Admiral Awwal Zubairu Gambo on his 60th birthday, commending his outstanding contributions to the armed forces and the country as a whole. In a statement by Bayo Onanuga Special Adviser to the President, Information & Strategy, "The President joins family, friends and associates in celebrating a distinguished naval officer whose career in the Nigerian Navy was marked by discipline, professionalism, and exemplary service. Vice Admiral Gambo was the 21st indigenous Chief of Naval Staff and served from 2021 to 2023.  It adds, during his military career, which spanned over three decades, the Underwater Warfare Specialist served in many capacities, including aboard NNS Ambe, NNS Damisa, NNS Ayam, and as Nigeria’s Defence Attaché in Luanda, Angola.  He also served as Naval Assistant to the Chief of Naval Staff; De...

 Lady who raised alarm over bread that stayed fresh for 2 months detained and released from police custody  A Nigerian lady, Love Doohima, who recently went viral for raising concerns about a loaf of bread that remained fresh after two months was on Monday, April 20, detained at the Zone 2 police station but was released in the early hours of today April 21. There were concern on social media on Monday after reports emerged that she had been arrested and detained. In a post shared on X, human rights lawyer, Inibehe Effiong, confirmed she was detained by the police but was released in the early hours of today after much deliberations. Last week, Love revealed that she had been hit with a N50 million lawsuit from a bread company, despite the fact that she did not mention any brand name in her video. Her initial video had sparked conversations online after she questioned how the bread still looked and smelled fresh after such a long time, raising concerns about what might have be...

 Judy Greer was 'so broke' before filming "Wedding Planner" that Matthew McConaughey covered her $20 valet bill Judy Greer, now known as the quintessential rom-com best friend, was still early in her career when she landed her role in The Wedding Planner alongside Jennifer Lopez and Matthew McConaughey.  During a recent interview, she recalled a memorable moment from the film’s early days when McConaughey stepped in to help her out of an embarrassing situation.  At the time, Greer had parked at the Roosevelt Hotel for a table read but didn’t have enough money to pay the valet.  Mortified, she was on the pay phone trying to figure out a solution when McConaughey overheard and handed her $20, instantly becoming her hero. Greer remembered McConaughey fondly, describing him as “lovely” throughout filming.  She recalled seeing him in hair and makeup each morning, relaxed in pajamas and sipping yerba mate tea, and noted that his easygoing nature left a lasting impress...

 Ivanka Trump called a 'vampire' as she flaunts toned figure in loved-up snaps with husband Ivanka Trump recently turned heads with a series of Instagram posts that had fans comparing her look to a “vampire.”  The 44‑year‑old shared glamorous photos alongside her husband Jared Kushner, showing off a black velour maxi dress with red lining, a thigh‑high slit, and a dramatic neckline paired with a choker.  Jared complemented her style in a classic black suit and bow tie, with the couple posing both together and separately in New York City. Her carousel included solo shots in the striking gown as well as casual photos in a tan coat and sunglasses during a visit to The Edge NYC, where she and Jared posed against the skyline 100 floors up.  Ivanka captioned the post “A couple more moments from NYC,” and while many of her 8.8 million followers praised her look, others joked about the “Dracula” color scheme or criticized her family’s political ties. The reactions highlighte...

 Diane Keaton’s personal world goes up for auction, from fashion to film history A remarkable collection tied to Diane Keaton is about to go under the hammer, bringing together pieces that reflect her life, taste, and creative journey. Auction house Bonhams is preparing a series of sales split between New York City and Los Angeles this June.  The lineup is not just about high-value items, it feels more like stepping into Keaton’s personal world, from her fashion choices to the art she created and collected over the years. The collection has been given the title “The Architecture of an Icon”, and it lives up to that name. It pulls together everything from fine art and interiors to clothing and deeply personal items that shaped her identity both on and off screen. Among the standout pieces are designs from Ralph Lauren and Thom Browne, along with Keaton’s own handmade collages.  There is also something special for film lovers, a copy of the original untitled script for Anni...

 Alan Osmond, founding voice of The Osmonds, passes at 76 surrounded by family Alan Osmond, the eldest of the famous Osmond brothers, has passed at the age of 76. A family spokesperson confirmed that he d!ed Monday evening in Utah, with his wife, Suzanne Pinegar Osmond, and their eight sons close by his side.  His health had been a long journey, he stepped away from performing decades ago after being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. His brother, Merrill Osmond, shared a deeply personal tribute, opening a window into their final moments together. He spoke about sitting quietly with Alan just days earlier, recalling how even in discomfort, his brother could still smile and laugh at a simple joke. In that final conversation, Alan leaned in and reminded Merrill of the years they spent building something meaningful together, their music, their message, their shared purpose. He asked that their work continue to be shared, a request Merrill says he intends to honor. Merrill’s messa...

 Rivers Govt Meets OPM Founder Over Alleged Child Rights Breach The Rivers State Government has invited the General Overseer of Omega Power Ministries, Apostle Chibuzor Gift Chinyere, to address public concerns over child right violation involving an autistic child who he gave out in marriage, to ensure compliance with state laws. This was contained in a statement signed by Martha Igbiks, Head of Media Unit Social Welfare and Rehabilitation, dated 21, April, 2026. The meeting was convened with the International Federation of Women Lawyers, FIDA, Rivers State Branch, led by its Chairperson, Tamunouemi Life-George, (Esq)., in attendance, following recent reports linked to the clergyman’s children’s homes. Speaking after the closed-door session, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation, Lauretta Davies Dimpka explained that the actions of the OPM General Overseer though done in good faith, breached existing laws. “So as a faith-based organization, he’s ...

 Eight members of the House of Reps have defected today in the green chamber in anticipation of the party primaries for the 2027 elections: Abubakar Abdul Buba (Niger) — From PDP to APC. Sani Yakubu Noma (Kebbi) — From PDP to ADC. Ibrahim Mohammed Bunza (Kebbi) — From PDP to APC. Mudashiru Alani (Osun) — From PDP to Accord. Olusoji Adetunji (Osun) — From PDP to Accord. Thaddeus Attah (Lagos) — From Labour Party (LP) to ADC. Bashir Usman Zubairu (Kaduna) — From APC to ADC. David Abel Fouh (Taraba) — From APC to PDP.

 NDLEA secures forfeiture of N33.6 billion worth of opioids intercepted at Onne Port - Court order a death knell for the financial nerves of drug cartels, says Marwa  The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has secured another significant win in its ongoing offensive against drug cartels as the Federal High Court, Port Harcourt, granted an interim forfeiture order for 17 containers laden with illicit opioids Worth over N33.6 billion in street value. The containers, which were intercepted at the Port Harcourt Ports Complex in Onne, Rivers State, on 4h September; 14th August; 13th August; 29th July: 13th June; 30th May; 29th May; 28th May; 20th May; 19th May; 14th May and 29th April, all in 2025, contain a staggering haul of Nineteen Million Six Hundred Thousand (19,600,000) pills of Tramadol, Tafrodol, Tapentadol and Carisoprodol, as well as Two Million Four Hundred and Ninety Six Thousand Four Hundred (2,496,400) bottles of Codeine Syrup. The combined street value of ...