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 Again, Gov Diri Tasks Traditional Rulers To Maintain Peace, Security At King Awala's Coronation  Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has again urged traditional rulers to remain focused on the maintenance of peace, security and stability in their various domains as part of their contribution towards the development of the state. Governor Diri made the call at the weekend during the coronation ceremony ofHis Royal Majesty King Victor Awala, Ebeni-Ibe the Eighth (VIII) of Atissa Kingdom in the Yenagoa Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, at the Bishop Dimieari Grammar School, Yenagoa, the state capital. Represented by his deputy, Dr Peter Akpe, the Bayelsa Chief Executive acknowledged the critical role traditional rulers play in society as the custodians of culture and tradition, stressing that his administration will continue to hold them in high esteem. Expressing gratitude to the Chiefs and people of Epie-Atissa for their peaceful disposition, Governor Diri, noted...

 PRESS RELEASE  The African Democratic Congress (ADC) wishes to state, clearly and unequivocally, that we remain focused on our mission to rescue Nigeria from the failure of the APC-led government and to prevent the dangerous slide toward a one-party state. We have taken note of recent suggestions that the ADC will not produce candidates in the 2027 elections. We find such claims to be entirely unfounded, mischievous, and designed to create confusion where none exists. They have no basis in law, in fact, or in the reality of our preparations as a political party. The ADC will present candidates in the 2027 general elections. Not just candidates, but credible, competent, and nationally acceptable candidates who are capable of leading this country out of its current crisis. We remain a law-abiding political party, fully compliant with the Constitution and the Electoral Act. There is no legal impediment to our participation in the 2027 elections, and any suggestion to the contrar...

 President Tinubu has directed SGF George Akume and Governor Alia to resolve their issues without further delay. Following his directive, a meeting initially scheduled to hold on Thursday, April 30th, will now be held on Sunday, May 3, in Benue State to resolve all issues.  Early feelers suggest a possible reconciliation with a return ticket likely for Governor Alia, while SGF Akume will be allowed to nominate most of the National Assembly lawmakers. One more photo below. 

 Ex–Miami congressman David Rivera convicted in $50M secret Venezuela lobbying scheme tied to foreign influence campaign   Former Miami congressman David Rivera and a political consultant have been convicted in connection with a secret $50 million lobbying operation tied to Venezuela during the first Trump administration, according to jurors who found them guilty on all counts. Rivera, a Republican and longtime associate of U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, was convicted alongside co-defendant Esther Nuhfer on charges including failing to register as a foreign agent and conspiracy to commit money laundering. Prosecutors said the pair worked on behalf of officials linked to Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro in an effort to influence U.S. policy and soften sanctions. The seven-week trial detailed what prosecutors described as an effort to use Rivera’s political connections to gain access to senior U.S. officials and reshape the American approach to Venezuela. Witnesses include...

 El Salvador-born immigration advocate named West Virginia bishop after opposing Trump's immigration policies A new Catholic bishop for West Virginia has been appointed from Washington, D.C., bringing a strong record of immigrant advocacy and a personal history shaped by fleeing civil war in El Salvador. Pope Leo XIV announced Friday that the Most Rev. Evelio Menjivar-Ayala will become the next leader of the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston, which covers all of West Virginia. The 55-year-old currently serves as an auxiliary bishop in Washington, D.C., and has been widely recognized for his ministry to immigrant communities. Menjivar-Ayala fled El Salvador in the late 1980s during its civil war and entered the United States in 1990. He later received humanitarian protection, became a visa holder as a religious worker, and was granted U.S. citizenship about 20 years ago. Reflecting on his background, he has said he feels a deep connection to migrants facing deportation or enforcement a...

 Former MLB player Royce Clayton testifies about call with Scott Erickson after fatal crash that killed two young brothers  Former Major League Baseball player Royce Clayton testified Friday about a brief phone call he had with former MLB pitcher Scott Erickson shortly after a 2020 crash that killed two young brothers, describing what Erickson allegedly told him in the minutes following the incident. Clayton told the court he was dining with Erickson and Rebecca Grossman shortly before the crash and had planned to drive separately to Grossman’s home. About 15 to 20 minutes after the collision, Clayton said he received a four-minute call from Erickson in which he was told not to come over because there had been an accident. Grossman is currently serving a 15-year-to-life sentence after being convicted in 2024 of second-degree murder in connection with the deaths of 11-year-old Mark Iskander and his 8-year-old brother Jacob. Their family has also filed a civil lawsuit alleging G...

 Judge rejects East Palestine residents’ bid to undo $600 million Norfolk Southern derailment settlement releases A federal judge has rejected an effort by East Palestine, Ohio, residents to overturn personal injury releases tied to a $600 million class settlement stemming from the 2023 Norfolk Southern train derailment. In a 29-page ruling, U.S. District Judge Benita Pearson denied motions from nearly 200 residents who sought in September 2025 to rescind agreements they signed as part of the settlement, arguing they were misled about the long-term health risks and rushed into waiving their rights through what they described as a coordinated strategy between the railroad and class counsel. The derailment, which occurred on Feb. 3, 2023, released toxic chemicals from at least 38 railcars in the Ohio-Pennsylvania border village, triggering widespread concerns over air, soil, and water contamination. Roughly 55,000 claims were filed within a 20-mile radius in the aftermath. While the ...

Israeli strikes kill at least 7 in southern Lebanon despite ceasefire with Hezbollah, officials say Israeli airstrikes in southern Lebanon killed at least seven people and injured others on Saturday, according to officials, even as a ceasefire with Hezbollah remains in place. Israel’s military also issued fresh evacuation warnings for residents in nine southern villages, as cross-border violence continues despite the truce that took effect on April 17. Lebanon’s state-run National News Agency reported that strikes hit multiple locations, including a car in the village of Kfar Dajal that killed two people, a home in Lwaizeh that left three dead, and another strike in Shoukin that killed two more. The Israeli military said its air force carried out around 50 strikes over the past 24 hours targeting Hezbollah infrastructure and operatives, according to its Arabic-language spokesperson. Hezbollah said it responded with a drone attack targeting Israeli troops gathered inside a house in the ...

 Fugees rapper Pras Michel reports to Arizona federal prison to begin 14-year sentence after conviction on conspiracy and foreign agent charges Rapper Pras Michel, a member of the Grammy-winning group the Fugees, has begun serving a 14-year federal prison sentence after reporting to a facility in Arizona following his 2023 conviction on conspiracy and related charges. The 53-year-old arrived Thursday at the Federal Correctional Institution in Safford, Arizona, according to prison records. His surrender follows a series of delays after a judge initially ordered him to begin serving his sentence in January, then pushed the date to March, and later to April 30. In a statement, Michel’s spokesperson described the day as “painful” for the artist and his family, while stressing that his legal team continues to challenge aspects of the case on appeal. The statement said the charges tied to foreign agent registration violations remain contested and argued that his rights were violated duri...

 Marvel and DC comic book writer Gerry Conway, co-creator of the Punisher, dies at 73 from pancreatic cancer Gerry Conway, a prolific comic book writer whose work helped shape both Marvel and DC storylines and who co-created the Punisher, has died at the age of 73 after a battle with pancreatic cancer. He died Sunday in Thousand Oaks, California, according to his wife, Laura Conway. Marvel described him in a statement as a legendary writer whose work left a lasting imprint on superhero storytelling, noting his wide-ranging contributions across characters including Spider-Man, the Avengers, Iron Man, and Captain Marvel. Conway’s career in comics began at a young age after he developed a passion for the medium as a child. Born in Brooklyn in 1952, he started writing stories as a teenager and broke into professional comics at just 19 when he was hired to write “The Amazing Spider-Man.” The opportunity marked a turning point in his career and became one of his most influential early ro...

 U.S warns shipping firms over Iran Strait of Hormuz 'toll' payments as sanctions threat escalates maritime standoff    The United States is warning shipping companies that they could face sanctions if they make payments to Iran in exchange for safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, escalating tensions over control of one of the world’s most critical maritime chokepoints. The advisory, issued Friday by the Office of Foreign Assets Control, targets what U.S. officials describe as a growing “toll” system in which Iran has allegedly offered escorted or rerouted passage through the strait in exchange for payment. The Strait of Hormuz, located at the mouth of the Persian Gulf, typically carries about one-fifth of global oil and natural gas shipments. According to the warning, Iran has disrupted normal shipping through threats and attacks on vessels following heightened military conflict earlier this year. In response, Tehran has reportedly offered alternative escorted rout...

 Catholic Archdiocese of New York proposes $800 million settlement to resolve more than 1,300 clergy sex abuse claims    The Catholic Archdiocese of New York has reached a proposed $800 million settlement aimed at resolving more than 1,300 lawsuits alleging sexual abuse by clergy members. The agreement comes just months into Archbishop Ronald Hicks's tenure. It would, if approved, bring an end to years of litigation stemming from claims filed after state law changes in 2019 allowed survivors of childhood sexual abuse to pursue long-delayed cases. Among those involved is Joseph Caramanno of Staten Island, who sued the archdiocese and his former high school, St. Joseph by the Sea, alleging he was sexually abused by a priest in 2001 when he was 16 years old. His case is part of the broader wave of lawsuits that followed the legal change. Caramanno said the proposed settlement brings a measure of relief after years of waiting. “It’s been almost six years, and it does bring me...

 BENUE PENSIONERS, OKADA RIDERS PRESENT 2027 APC NOMINATION FORMS TO ALIA  Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia has received the 2027 governorship expression of interest and nomination forms under the All Progressives Congress, purchased by organised groups in the state. The presentation took place at Government House, Makurdi, on Saturday. The forms were presented by the Nigeria Union of Pensioners, Benue State Chapter, alongside the Benue State Motorcycle Hirers Association. Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia on Saturday received the 2027 governorship expression of interest and nomination forms of the All Progressives Congress, purchased on his behalf by two organised groups in Benue State. The presentation was made at the Government House in Makurdi by representatives of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners, Benue State Chapter, and the Benue State Motorcycle Hirers Association. According to statements at the event, the groups said their action reflects confidence in the governor’s leadersh...

 SANWO-OLU URGES BADAGRY TO PRESERVE LEGACY OF AKRAN, DE WHENO AHOLU MENU TOYI   The Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has urged the people of Badagry to preserve the legacy of the Akran of Badagry, His Imperial Majesty, De Wheno Aholu Menu Toyi I.   He said the "Akran of Badagry was a constant, an unshakeable figure of unity, whose palace was always open to his people and whose voice was always measured, always just."   Governor Sanwo-Olu spoke on Saturday during the funeral outing thanksgiving service held in honour of the Akran of Badagry, His Imperial Majesty, De Wheno Aholu Menu Toyi I, at Freeman Memorial Methodist Cathedral, Badagry.   The service was attended by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat; the Secretary to the Lagos State Government, Mrs. Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin; members of the State Executive Council; serving and former public office holders; politicians; religious and traditional leaders; deceased family members, security pers...

 Ogun State Expands Power Infrastructure with Strategic Energy Investments The Ogun State Government has intensified efforts to achieve energy security through a series of strategic investments under its Light Up Ogun agenda. Central to this initiative is the Oni Jagan-Jagan Independent Power Plant, a flagship project delivering 34 megawatts of gas-powered electricity to key areas including Abeokuta township, Oke-Mosan, and major government offices, parastatals, and Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs). In furtherance of its commitment to reliable power supply, the administration has also enhanced electricity infrastructure at critical locations such as the Gateway International Airport. A 1-megawatt gas-fired system has been installed to ensure uninterrupted power for airport operations, the ARISE development, and newly established customs facilities, reinforcing the state’s drive toward operational efficiency and economic growth. The government reiterated that these inter...

 U.S denies aid to Zambia tied to access to critical minerals The outgoing US ambassador to Zambia, Michael Gonzales, denied claims his country's support to Africa's second top copper producer was tied to critical minerals. Gonzales said his nation continued with interventions such as paying salaries for some 23,000 healthcare workers, adding that the US would keep providing critical lifesaving healthcare in the southern African nation. "Further, the US has resumed almost all health assistance after last year's review, providing over $400 million, including $75 million in medication," the Zambia National Broadcasting Corporation quoted Gonzales. He added that a new chapter in US-Zambia ties had been opened based on mutual benefit and transparency.

CLARIFICATION ON THE ARREST OF JUSTICE MARK CHIDIEBERE (JUSTICE CRACK) The attention of the Nigerian Army was drawn to the complaint made by some soldiers regarding their feeding and other matters relating to their welfare as posted on social media by a blogger/social media influencer, Justice Mark Chidiebere (Justice Crack).  While the matter is being investigated for breach of the Armed Forces’ Social Media Policy and an attempt to misinform the public, preliminary report reveals that the soldiers discussed wide range of issues with Justice Chidiebere who seemed to be inciting soldiers to create discontent within the system. An example was a chat bordering on subversion which Chidiebere had with the soldiers. It is important to state that a situation where civilians cultivate vulnerable personnel towards acts of subversion has far-reaching implications on discipline and national security.  Hence, Justice Chidiebere was picked by the Nigerian Army alongside the soldiers for i...

 NAF HELICOPTER LANDING INSPIRES YOUTHS, STRENGTHENS COMMUNITY BOND IN NSIT IBOM - AKWA IBOM STATE A routine flight turned into an unforgettable moment in Nsit Ibom as Nigeria marked Workers’ Day. The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) demonstrated its people-focused service during a routine liaison mission within the Niger Delta area. While en route on the mission, the crew executed a precautionary landing at a primary school football field in Nsit Ibom LGA, in line with standard safety procedures. The unexpected arrival of the helicopter transformed the quiet community space into a scene of excitement, drawing children and youths from Afaha Abia and Ikot Obio Asanga villages, many witnessing a military helicopter up close for the first time. What began as a routine mission quickly evolved into a meaningful moment of connection and inspiration. Seizing the opportunity, NAF personnel engaged warmly with the young audience, sharing insights into career pathways and emphasizing the values of d...

 My daughter wanted to name her brother Michael Jackson - Howie Mandel shares childhood story A simple family memory turned into a funny story for Howie Mandel, and it all started with a name. Speaking at the premiere of Michael in Hollywood, the comedian shared that his eldest daughter once had very strong opinions about what to call her baby brother.  She was just four at the time, but completely taken in by Michael Jackson. According to him, she genuinely wanted her unborn sibling to carry the full name of the pop legend. Not just “Michael,” but Michael Jackson. That was how deep the admiration ran in their home back then. Howie laughed as he looked back on it, noting that both he and his daughter were huge fans. The idea sounded wild, but it made perfect sense to a little girl who saw her idol as larger than life. At some point, he decided to make her dream feel real, at least for a moment. He took her to meet Michael Jackson in person. But when the time came, everything c...

 Fresh start and football joy,” Ed Sheeran celebrates Ipswich promotion after health setback Ed Sheeran was right there to witness a big moment for his club as Ipswich Town FC secured promotion back to the Premier League. The singer watched from the stands at Portman Road on Saturday as Ipswich delivered a strong 3-0 win over Queens Park Rangers. Dressed in a black coat and dark shades, he followed the action closely from a private box, surrounded by friends. When the final whistle went, the atmosphere shifted instantly. Fans poured onto the pitch in celebration after the club sealed promotion on the last day of the Championship season, a moment years in the making. Away from football, Sheeran has also been going through a personal reset. He recently revealed a new shaved hairstyle, explaining it as a symbol of change in his life. “I wanted to shave it to signify a fresh start,” he shared online, adding that a lot has been shifting for him lately and he is enjoying the new look. He...

 LAWMA WITHDRAWS LICENCES OF UNDERPERFORMING PSP OPERATORS, REALIGNS ROUTES — Moves to strengthen service delivery and expand coverage across Lagos The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has withdrawn the licences of some underperforming Private Sector Participation (PSP) operators and realigned waste collection routes in some parts of Lagos State, as part of measures to improve operational efficiency and ensure effective service delivery. The Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of LAWMA, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin disclosed this at the weekend, noting that the action followed a comprehensive operational review aimed at aligning operator capacity with the growing waste management demands of the State. He explained that the affected operators were unable to meet required service standards, necessitating the withdrawal of their licences in the interest of public health and environmental sustainability. The affected operators include KENNY JPS - Igando-Ikotun (Egan II), CLEAN C...

 FCT Minister Nyesom Wike Says ADC Remains in Legal Limbo After Supreme Court Ruling on Leadership Dispute Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has described the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as still facing significant legal challenges following the Supreme Court’s verdict delivered on April 30, 2026, in the ongoing party leadership crisis. In a detailed press briefing, Wike, a senior lawyer, provided a point-by-point analysis of the apex court’s judgment, concluding that despite the ruling, the ADC has not secured a clear resolution and remains in a state of legal uncertainty. Wike explained that the ADC had appealed the interpretation and application of a “status quo ante bellum” order previously issued by lower courts, arguing that the order was prejudicial to its interests. “From the Supreme Court judgment… if that ante bellum was not affecting them, they would not have gone on appeal,” he stated. The Supreme Court vacated the Court of Appeal’s directive...

 PRESS RELEASE DELTA STATE SECURITY  POLICE ARREST SUSPECTED KIDNAPPER/ARMED ROBBER; RECOVERS TWO (2) AK-47 RIFLES, ONE (1) BERETTA PISTOL AND SIXTY-NINE (69) ROUNDS OF LIVE AMMUNITION The Delta State Police Command has recorded further breakthroughs in ongoing intelligence-led operations targeting kidnapping, armed robbery, and illegal arms proliferation across the State. 1. ARREST OF SUSPECTED KIDNAPPER/ARMED ROBBER; RECOVERY OF ONE (1) AK-47 RIFLE AND SIXTY-THREE (63) ROUNDS OF LIVE AMMUNITION On 29 April 2026 at about 2010 hours, operatives of the CP Special Assignment Team (CP-SAT), acting on credible intelligence, arrested one Shehu Malami (male, 45 years) at Ogor Market, Ughelli. The suspect later led operatives to his hideout in Agbarha-Otor, where one (1) AK-47 rifle and sixty-three (63) rounds of live ammunition were recovered. Preliminary Investigation revealed that the suspect is part of a kidnapping syndicate terrorizing, Ughelli, Agbarho, Sapele, Warri and other ...

 Fire guts Sokoto State NLC Secretariat, destroys furniture, equipment and vital documents. A devastating fire destroyed office equipment, critical documents, and other valuables, ravaging the Sokoto State Secretariat of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in the early hours of Saturday. The inferno, which broke out around 3 a.m., was likely caused by an electrical fault, according to NLC state secretary Hamisu Hussaini, with the damage described as extensive .  The blaze consumed vital documents spanning over 30 years, office equipment, including computers, printers, refrigerators, televisions, and furniture. The watchman on duty was unable to contain the fire as it spread rapidly through the building. Firefighters arrived at the scene late but eventually brought the blaze under control   The incident has sparked calls for urgent improvements in Nigeria's power infrastructure, with stakeholders warning that unchecked electricity fluctuations pose a growing threat to l...

 Taiwan president arrives in Eswatini after trip initially cancelled Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te on Saturday arrived in Eswatini, Taipei's only diplomatic ally in Africa, after an earlier trip was cancelled as several countries revoked overflight permits. The Eswatini government the arrival in a Facebook post. “Welcome home, Your Excellency,” it said, TRT Afrika reported. Lai on Saturday said only that his initial visit had been "suspended due to unexpected external forces". But "after days of secret arrangements by the diplomatic and national security teams, we arrived successfully today (Saturday)," he said in a Facebook post. "I hope this trip will contribute to even deeper friendship between Taiwan and Eswatini, thanks to closer economic, agricultural, cultural and educational links, as well as promote Taiwan's international cooperation," he added. Overflight permissions Lai was originally scheduled to visit the southern Africa country fro...

 Heavy rain causes fresh flooding in Kenya, sparks dam overflow fears At least 10 people have died across Kenya after heavy rains triggered flooding and landslides in several regions, police said, as authorities warned rising river levels could threaten communities downstream from a major hydropower dam system. Seven of the deaths were reported in eastern Kenya. Police said two bridges were damaged in Kwale county on the coast and in Kitui in the east, while landslides were reported in parts of Elgeyo Marakwet county in the Rift Valley, Reuters reported. The rains fall within Kenya’s normal March to May wet season, but authorities say intense downpours and saturated ground have increased the risk of flooding and landslides. Transport was disrupted after a landslide blocked the Iten–Kabarnet road near Kolol, the Kenya National Highways Authority said, adding that repairs were under way and traffic had been diverted. The Kenya Red Cross said there were unconfirmed reports of missing ...

 Nick Cannon says he's in therapy four times a week, calls it 'waste management' Nick Cannon has revealed that therapy plays a central role in his life, sharing that he attends sessions four times a week.  Speaking with Iyanla Vanzant on his Counsel Culture Show, the entertainer explained that he first began therapy while studying for his Master’s in psychology, but it has since become something he deeply values.  He described the sessions as “waste management,” a place where he can release emotions, reflect, and sometimes cry, helping him maintain balance and clarity. Cannon emphasized that therapy isn’t about solving everything but about creating space to process feelings and expand what he calls his “spiritual bandwidth.”  He explained that the practice allows him to unload stress before it overwhelms him, giving him the ability to stay grounded despite the pressures of his career and personal life. For him, therapy has become a consistent tool for self-care and e...

 Kelly Ripa offers to babysit Anne Hathaway's kids as she takes 'first day off' in 3.5 years: 'Just sleep all day' Anne Hathaway appeared on Live With Kelly and Mark to promote her upcoming film The Devil Wears Prada 2, but the conversation quickly shifted to her demanding schedule.  The Oscar-winning actress revealed that after years of nonstop work, she finally has her first day off coming up, surprising both the hosts and the audience.  Hathaway explained that five films she worked on over the past three and a half years are all being released within a six-month span, leaving her little time to rest or reflect. Kelly Ripa responded with humor and generosity, offering to take care of Hathaway’s children so the actress could spend her rare day off sleeping.  Hathaway, who shares sons Jonathan and Jack with husband Adam Shulman, laughed at the suggestion and admitted that her family also recently welcomed a new puppy.  Ripa quickly added that she and Mark would ...

 This is out of my hands’ after vocal diagnosis - LeAnn Rimes postpones more shows,  LeAnn Rimes has postponed additional tour dates after confirming a vocal health issue that requires rest and recovery. The singer shared on Instagram that she has been diagnosed with severe laryngitis following a bout of COVID, forcing her to move upcoming performances.  She explained that a medical examination of her vocal cords confirmed the condition. “After a diagnosis of covid leading to severe laryngitis, I’m so sorry to have to reschedule next week’s shows,” she wrote, adding that she wanted fans to hear the update directly from her. Concerts in Waukegan, Illinois, and Wilmington, Ohio, have now been shifted to November 6 and 7. Tickets already purchased will remain valid, with refund options available for those unable to attend the new dates. Rimes did not hide her disappointment. “It breaks my heart having to reschedule,” she shared, noting that she would rather be on stage with ...