PINK REPUBLIC/ MY BLOG IS A STORY MARATHON.

 Mexico agrees to host Iran’s World Cup team after U.S. declines to accommodate squad, Sheinbaum says    Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said Monday that Mexico has agreed to host the Iranian national football team during the upcoming World Cup after the United States declined to accommodate the squad. Sheinbaum said the decision followed a request from FIFA, which sought an alternative arrangement after U.S. officials indicated they did not want Iran’s team staying in the country for the duration of the tournament, even though Iran is scheduled to play all of its group-stage matches on U.S. soil. “We have no reason to deny them the possibility of staying in Mexico,” Sheinbaum said during her daily press conference, adding that Mexico accepted the request in coordination with tournament organizers. Iranian football federation officials said the team’s base of operations would be relocated from Arizona to Tijuana, near the U.S.-Mexico border, to simplify travel logisti...

 Man breaches Kenyan President William Ruto’s security and reaches the stage during public event The incident happened during a thanksgiving service for Youth Affairs PS Fikirini Jacobs while the President was addressing the crowd on Sunday, May 24. Witnesses said the man, who was holding a Bible, briefly approached and held onto the President before security officers intervened. Video Credit : nwanzotv Watch video below. 

 FRSC Advises Motorists To Use Alternative Route Amid Abuja–Kaduna Traffic Gridlock The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has advised motorists travelling along the Abuja–Kaduna Highway to use the Kachia–Bwari alternative route due to heavy traffic congestion ahead of the Eid el-Kabir celebrations. In a statement released in Kaduna, the agency explained that the gridlock was caused by increased holiday travel, ongoing road construction and recent rainfall, all of which have slowed movement on the highway. Kaduna Sector Commander, Corps Commander Andrew Longkam, identified the Nasarawa Azara section between Katari and Jere as the worst affected area, with vehicles moving slowly and commuters experiencing long delays. He also attributed the congestion to poor driving behaviour, including impatience and disregard for lane discipline among some motorists. According to the FRSC, additional personnel have been deployed to the affected areas, while the corps is collaborating with the Niger...

 Office of the National Security Adviser Trains Security Personnel For Enhanced Security Protection In Africa In furtherance of Nigeria’s commitment to advancing regional peace and security through strategic partnerships, the National Counter Terrorism Centre, Office of the National Security Adviser, is hosting an induction and orientation training for members of the Committee of Experts of the African Union Peace and Security Council. The training is aimed at equipping participants with the requisite strategic insights to effectively support the Peace and Security Council, in addressing emerging security challenges across the African continent. The programme provided a platform for experts to deepen their understanding of the Council’s mandate, operational frameworks, and the mechanisms for conflict prevention, peacebuilding and counterterrorism cooperation among African Union member states. It also underscores the importance of strengthening institutional capacity and fostering c...

 FG DECLARES MAY 27, 28 PUBLIC HOLIDAYS FOR EID-UL-ADHA The Federal Government has declared Wednesday, May 27, and Thursday, May 28, 2026, as public holidays to mark Eid-ul-Adha. A statement by Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Interior, Magdalene Ajani, says the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo congratulates Muslims in Nigeria and the diaspora, describing Eid-ul-Adha as a festival that reflects sacrifice, obedience, and compassion. He urges Nigerians to use the period to pray for peace, security, and prosperity in the country. Tunji-Ojo also calls for unity, peaceful coexistence, and sober reflection during the celebration.

 NIGERIA, TÜRKİYE SIGN MOU TO DEEPEN COOPERATION IN SOLID MINERALS DEVELOPMENT Nigeria and the Republic of Türkiye have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to strengthen bilateral cooperation in the solid minerals sector, marking a significant step towards deepening economic collaboration between both countries. The agreement was signed on the sidelines of the Istanbul Natural Resources Summit in Istanbul, Türkiye. Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake says Nigeria is ready to leverage Türkiye’s technological advancement and expertise in mining exploration, training, digitisation, licensing systems, and capacity building to accelerate reforms and growth within the sector. Dele Alake who also serves as Chairman of the Africa Minerals Strategy Group, notes that reforms introduced in Nigeria’s solid minerals sector over the past three years have transformed the operating environment and made the sector more attractive to genuine investors. Türkiye’s Minister of...

 Illegal Mining :  Court Orders Final Forfeiture of Mining Site, Trucks, Lithium Stones to FG Justice Daniel Osiagor of the Federal High Court sitting in Ikoyi, Lagos, on Friday, May 22, 2026, ordered the final forfeiture of properties recovered from Chinese and Nigerians involved in illegal mining activities in Ogun State to the Federal Government of Nigeria. The forfeited assets include a mining site located behind the Baale’s Palace on Ileposo Street, adjacent to 59 Street, Ode-Remo, Ogun State; a Toyota 4Runner SUV with registration number AWE 261 AE; two trucks laden with substantial quantities of mica and lithium stones; and a 40-foot container containing substantial quantities of mica and lithium stones. The judge made the order, following a motion filed by the Lagos Zonal Directorate 1 of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Ikoyi, through its counsel, Bilkisu Buhari, seeking an order for the custody and disposal of the properties pursuant to Section 330...

 Nasty C Says Wizkid and Drake’s “One Dance” Opened Global Doors for African Music Nasty C has praised Wizkid for playing a major role in boosting the global popularity of African music. Speaking during a podcast interview, the “Zulu Man With Some Power” rapper stated that Wizkid’s 2016 collaboration with Canadian superstar Drake on the hit song One Dance helped open international doors for modern African artists. According to Nasty C, the success of the collaboration gave Afrobeats massive global exposure and made the genre far more profitable. He explained that the impact became so significant that some rappers reportedly began moving away from hip-hop to focus on Afrobeats. “Wizkid and Drake collaboration on ‘One Dance’ opened the door for African artists. After the collaboration, African music received a significant boost. During some of my interviews in Nigeria and Ghana, the hosts told me that some rappers were even switching to Afrobeats because of how lucrative it has becom...

 Phyna Renews Clash With VeryDarkMan, Threatens to Release More Evidence Phyna has continued her public clash with social media critic VeryDarkMan as their online feud intensifies. The dispute reportedly started after Phyna accused the activist of allegedly taking advantage of her vulnerability during a painful period following the death of her younger sister in a Dangote truck accident. During a recent livestream, the reality TV star became emotional while speaking about her personal and financial struggles, while also throwing fresh jabs at the controversial online personality. Phyna had earlier shared what she claimed were private chats between herself and VeryDarkMan, and during the latest session, she made additional allegations, claiming the TikToker frequently contacts her whenever he is facing personal challenges. The BBNaija star also hinted that she could release more evidence connected to her accusations as the drama continues to unfold online.

 Yul Edochie Opens Up on How He Met May Edochie and Their Early Marriage Journey Yul Edochie has shared details about how he met his first wife, May Edochie, and their early marriage journey. Speaking during a recent appearance on “The Honest Bunch Podcast,” the Nollywood actor revealed that he got married to May at the age of 22. According to Yul, they first met at an examination centre while writing their GCE exams. The actor also spoke on the importance of women setting boundaries regarding their actions and decisions. Recall that Yul Edochie married Judy Austin on April 27, 2022, before later announcing the birth of their first child together. Following the development, May Edochie reportedly filed a lawsuit against Yul and Judy Austin, demanding ₦100 million in damages over allegations of adultery. The actor also previously suffered a tragic loss after his first son, Kambilichukwu, died on March 30, 2023, at the age of 16. Reports claimed the teenager suffered a seizure while ...

 Anambra Government blows hot, Will Discipline Medical Officers  functioning Without Name Tags By Chris Chikelue  Anambra State Government has stated that it will discipline any medical officer who do not have their name tags on while on duty. The State Commissioner for Health Dr. Afam Obidike let this out in Awka, shortly after resuming office after been sworn in by the Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo for a second time in office. The commissioner said, "it has become necessary for medical personnel in government-owned health facilities to have their name tags on their uniforms for proper identification. "Disciplinary actions will be taken against medical officers who flouted the new order because it is the right of the patient to know who is attending to them so as to track irresponsible conducts from nurses and other health professionals." The commissioner insisted that name tags have been provided for the workers so it is mandatory that they put it on while on duty. ...

 Commentary on World Thyroid Day: Promoting Thyroid Health in Anambra State By Obianuju Isima World Thyroid Day observed annually on May 25, provides an opportunity to raise awareness about thyroid health and the importance of early detection and treatment of thyroid-related diseases. The occasion also serves as a reminder to governments, healthcare professionals, and individuals to pay closer attention to conditions affecting the thyroid gland, which plays a vital role in regulating the body’s metabolism, energy levels, growth, and overall well-being. In Anambra State, the observance highlights the need for stronger public awareness campaigns on thyroid disorders such as hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, goitre, and thyroid cancer. Many residents are still unaware of the symptoms associated with these conditions, often mistaking signs like fatigue, unexplained weight changes, excessive sweating, depression, or irregular heartbeat for ordinary stress or minor illnesses. The administ...

 Senegal's parliament speaker quits two days after prime minister sacked Senegal's parliament speaker, El Malick Ndiaye, has announced his resignation, deepening political turmoil in the West African ‌nation two days after the president dismissed the government. Ndiaye, a senior figure in the ruling ​PASTEF party, said ​his resignation was a personal decision, giving ⁠the "higher interest of the nation" as ​a reason for his departure, Reuters reported. President Bassirou Diomaye ​Faye dismissed Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko on Friday and dissolved the government after months of mounting tension ​between the two leaders. Members of parliament ​are set ​to convene ⁠on Tuesday to vote on reinstating Sonko as a lawmaker ​and to elect a new ​speaker ⁠for the National Assembly to replace Ndiaye. Some critics say reinstating Sonko would be illegal ⁠as ​he has never been ​a member of parliament.

  GHANA ACTRESS BEVERLY AFAGLO, DIES OF CANCER A mother’s final blow: Cancer claims husband and two daughters, Beverly Afaglo’s death deepens Family Tragedy The death of actress Beverly Afaglo has intensified a long-running family tragedy marked by repeated losses to cancer.  Her death has left her mother, already grieving the deaths of her husband and another daughter from the same illness, in further emòtional collapse. At the family residence, where preparations for a one-week observance are underway at the Green Flavour Events Centre in Tema Community 9, attention has shifted to the mother’s condition.  The elderly woman, who depends on a walking stick for support, was overcome with grief when confronted with the latest loss. The family’s history with cancer has now claimed three immediate relatives, leaving the mother without her husband and two daughters.

 Soludo Administration Boosts Football, Sports Development in Anambra By Obianuju Isima  The administration of Governor Chukwuma Soludo has continued to demonstrate commitment to football and sports development in Anambra State through investments in infrastructure, grassroots programmes, youth empowerment initiatives, and improved security measures. One of the major steps taken by the government is the proposed construction of an Olympic-sized stadium aimed at promoting sports and football development in the state.  The project, according to the governor, is designed to provide modern sporting facilities, encourage grassroots participation, and create opportunities for young athletes and football talents to thrive. The Soludo administration has also introduced youth-focused empowerment programmes, including the “One Youth, Two Skills” initiative, which seeks to productively engage young people across the state. Though not limited to football, the programme is expected to...

 Happy birthday to my three handsome triplets Ragnar, Aiden and Liam and to their beautiful mother, my ex-wife, Precious all of whom are celebrating their new age today!  To the triplets I say, on behalf of your older brother Aragorn and the entire family and household, that you have brought us so much joy and we are very proud of you. Our love for you is endless and our faith in you is total and complete.  The three of you make life worth living and your courage and strength is utterly inspiring. Always filled with joy and always putting smiles on the faces of all those around you: you are indeed, together with your siblings, my strength and the joy of my life.  May God bless you today and always and may He grant you many more beautiful years of good health, peace, joy, prosperity and blessings.  He has guided you, provided for you, protected you and caused you to prosper and excel despite so many challenges and against all odds.  That in itself is a mirac...

 BAUCHI STATE POLICE COMMAND  PRESS RELEASE SALLAH CELEBRATIONS (EID-EL-DUHA 2026): BAUCHI POLICE FELICITATES MUSLIMS, ISSUES SECURITY GUIDELINES The Bauchi State Police Command congratulates Muslim faithful in the state and across the country on the occasion of Eid-el-Duha, popularly known as Sallah Celebrations, which will take place on Wednesday 27th May 2026. The Commissioner of Police, CP Sani-Omolori Aliyu, mni, psc(+), extends warm felicitations to the Muslim Ummah and appreciates their continuous cooperation with the Police and other security agencies in maintaining peace and order in the state. In line with the Command’s mandate to ensure a hitch-free celebration, adequate personnel have been deployed to Eid grounds, major highways, recreational centers, and other public places across the 20 Local Government Areas. The deployment includes conventional police officers, tactical teams, and traffic personnel working in synergy with sister security agencies and local vigi...

 Jessie J reveals she is cancer-free: 'I sobbed for hours' Jessie J has shared uplifting news with fans: after a long and emotional battle, she is now cancer‑free. The singer announced the milestone in a heartfelt social media post, revealing that her latest breast MRI showed no signs of disease.  She admitted to sobbing for hours before finally feeling relief for the first time in a year. Jessie has been open about her journey since her diagnosis in June 2025, describing the highs and lows of treatment and the difficult decision to cancel tour dates while undergoing surgeries. Her recovery has been marked by resilience and gratitude. Last September, Jessie returned to the stage for the first time after surgery, performing at BBC Radio 2 In the Park in Essex a moment made even more special as her two‑year‑old son saw her perform live for the first time.  She introduced her song Living My Best Life by explaining its personal significance, saying she refused to put her care...

 OPERATION HADIN KAI ISSUES SECURITY ADVISORY, ASSURES PUBLIC OF SAFE EID EL KABIR CELEBRATIONS ACROSS THE NORTH EAST The Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), extends warm felicitations to all Muslim faithful ahead of the Eid El Kabir 1447AH celebrations scheduled for Wednesday, 28 May 2026, and wishes all residents of the North East a peaceful and joyful festivity. In keeping with its mandate to protect lives and property across the Theatre, the Command wishes to inform the general public that comprehensive security arrangements have been put in place well ahead of the celebrations to ensure a safe and secure environment for all. Credible intelligence available to the Command indicates the possibility of isolated attempts by remnant Boko Haram Terrorist (BHT) and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) elements to exploit the festive period to carry out attacks against civilian targets using suicide bombers and IEDs, particularly in areas of h...

 ADC faction dissolves David Mark-led leadership, endorses Dumebi Kachikwu as presidential candidate A faction of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) on Sunday dissolved the David Mark-led national working committee (NWC) and formally adopted Dumebi Kachikwu as its presidential candidate for the 2027 election. The decision was taken at the faction’s national convention and presidential primary held in Abuja, where delegates endorsed Kachikwu through a voice vote. The group immediately constituted a new set of national officers to replace the dissolved NWC.

 Secretary of Umulogbo in Imo State narrates how two suspects, Onyema Okonkwo and Emmanuel, were apprehended over death of late Chinwendu Achumba. According to him, the father of the deceased became worried after calling his daughter repeatedly for hours without getting any response. He then contacted the caretaker, who was away from the lodge at the time. He explained that the apartment was mostly occupied by nursing students, but none of them were around when the incident occurred, leading to suspicions that the suspects may have been monitoring the victim. He stated that on Thursday, May 21, 2026, news of the incident broke out and they quickly went to the lodge where her body was discovered before it was later taken to the mortuary. Hours later, the person who reportedly went to report the case was said to be the stepbrother of one of the suspects, who security operatives initially held for questioning before releasing him the same day. He added that while the police began inve...

 Traditional Rulers in Ibeku Reverse Libation Against Governor Alex Otti Some traditional rulers from various communities in Ibeku Egwu Asaa, Umuahia North Local Government Area of Abia State, have performed a counter-libation to nullify and reverse an earlier ritual allegedly directed against Governor Alex Otti by a former state Commissioner, Charles Ogbonnaya. In a video that went viral on social media, Ogbonnaya, a former Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, was seen pouring water on the ground and raising a kola nut while invoking the ancestors. He accused Governor Otti of denying the ancestors their rights by allegedly operating the affairs of the state from his private residence in Nvosi, Isiala Ngwa South LGA, rather than the Government House in Umuahia. Reacting swiftly to the development, traditional rulers and community leaders from different clans within Ibeku land conducted a separate libation ceremony aimed at reversing the former commissioner’s p...

China launches Shenzhou 23 mission with three astronauts China has launched its Shenzhou 23 mission, sending three astronauts to the Tiangong space station, including one crew member who is expected to remain in orbit for a full year in one of the country’s longest planned space stays. The spacecraft lifted off Sunday night from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwestern China, marking another step in Beijing’s expanding human spaceflight program as it moves toward its goal of a crewed lunar landing by 2030. The mission comes as China continues to build out its independent space station after being excluded from the International Space Station amid U.S. national security concerns. The crew consists of mission commander Zhu Yangzhu, astronaut Zhang Zhiyuan, and Lai Ka-ying, also identified by authorities as Li Jiaying. Lai, who was born and raised in Hong Kong and holds a doctorate in computer forensics, becomes the first astronaut from the city to participate in a space missio...

Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado vows new presidential run and return from exile by end of 2026 Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado said she plans to run for president again and return to Venezuela before the end of 2026 as she renewed calls for democratic elections in the country. Speaking Saturday during a meeting with fellow opposition leaders in Panama City, Machado said the opposition remains committed to achieving a democratic transition through free and fair presidential elections that would allow Venezuelans both inside and outside the country to vote. Machado has been living in exile since December after spending nearly a year in hiding in Venezuela. She later traveled to Norway, where she received the Nobel Peace Prize. Her latest comments come months after the White House shifted its approach toward Venezuela following the U.S. military capture of then-President Nicolás Maduro and began working with acting President Delcy Rodríguez, a figure ti...

 Republicans split over Trump’s emerging Iran deal as hawks warn of ‘disaster’ and supporters defend negotiations  President Donald Trump’s emerging effort to broker an end to the Iran conflict is drawing sharp criticism from some Republicans who argue the proposed deal could leave Tehran in a stronger position and undo recent military gains. While Trump has described the agreement as largely negotiated, lawmakers, former officials, and conservative analysts are warning that the terms could amount to a strategic setback. Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, said the administration’s actions against Iran were among the most significant of Trump’s term and urged the president not to ease pressure on Tehran. He warned that allowing Iran to continue uranium enrichment, financial gains, and control over key regional waterways would represent a “disastrous mistake.” Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., also expressed concern, arguing that any outcome leaving Iran dominant in the region or able to threat...

 FCC opens public comment on ABC petition to classify The View as bona fide news interview program The Federal Communications Commission has opened a public comment period on a petition from Disney-owned ABC seeking to classify The View as a “bona fide news interview program,” a designation that could exempt it from federal equal-time requirements for political candidates. Disney, acting on behalf of ABC and its Houston station KTRK-TV, filed the request earlier this month in an effort to secure an exemption under the FCC’s rules governing political broadcasting. The equal-time provision, rooted in the Communications Act of 1934, requires broadcasters to provide comparable airtime to competing political candidates when one is featured, a safeguard intended to prevent partisan advantage on public airwaves. Exemptions are typically granted to qualifying news programs, which ABC argues include The View, comparing it to established political talk shows such as Meet the Press and Face t...

 LAWMA URGES WASTE REDUCTION, SORTING AS DISPOSAL SITES FACE WEATHER-INDUCED OPERATIONAL PRESSURE The Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has called on residents to embrace waste reduction, sorting, and responsible disposal practices as disposal facilities across Lagos State experience increased operational pressure arising from heavy rainfall and difficult terrain conditions. Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of LAWMA, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin, stated that persistent rainfall and increased waste evacuation activities had placed considerable strain on disposal infrastructure, affecting truck movement, turnaround time, and operational efficiency at some landfill and disposal locations across the State. He noted that the situation had also impacted evacuation logistics for PSP operators and sanitation personnel working under challenging weather conditions to sustain waste management operations statewide. According to him, the Authority was actively engaging relevant stakeho...

 An absolute nightmare situation unfolded on May 17th when a man became stuck in a narrow section of a cave in New York.  This incident unfolded at Merlins Cave in Canaan, New York, when the victim and 4 friends, all of whom are experienced cavers, began exploring the cave. The group made it to a particularly narrow section nicknamed "The Beartrap" when the victim became stuck. The ceiling is only 12 inches from the floor in this section. It quickly became apparent that this was an emergency, and one friend crawled out of the cave and called 911. The call went out at 6:30 p.m. and it would take until 9 p.m. before a rescue team could be assembled and arrive.  The temperature inside of the cave was 50 degrees, with 100 percent humidity. These conditions made hypothermia a significant risk for the man that was trapped and unable to move.  Forest Ranger, Lt. Jim Gullen, who led the rescue mission, said, "He was really jammed in there, more than I expected. It was like h...

 An 18-year-old Georgia teen and his girlfriend were celebrating their graduation with his father when a tree fell on their car, claiming the lives of all three. On the evening of Saturday, May 23rd, Kencerio Walker and his girlfriend Nykeria were spending the evening in Augusta with his Father James Walker. The trio had spent a pleasant evening in Augusta celebrating Kencerio's graduation from Swainsboro High School.  As they were heading home for the evening down Highway 56, a completely unforseeable tragedy occurred. At approximately 9:05 p.m., a tree fell across both lanes, stricking two vehicles. The Ford Taurus that the three were traveling in took the worst of the impact. All three occupants lost their lives as a result of the impact. The other driver of the vehicle struck by the tree escaped the incident with only minor injuries.  The entire Swainsboro community was shocked by the incident. There was a candlelight vigil held at the Swainsboro High School on the ev...

 Jas karo, since you mentioned my name, let me respond respectfully. I won’t stay silent or act like I’m against your growth. I may not have global recognition yet, but I’m also not doing badly in my own way. I remember when I came to congratulate you after your visit to Davido. You even mentioned that no Isoko person had welcomed you yet, but I came. Be sincere with yourself and before God how did you treat me afterward? I’m not someone who envies people. Anyone who knows me knows I genuinely support others. I posted and celebrated you during your Davido visit and even when you got your new car, though you never acknowledged it, which I accepted. Before your Davido visit, we created content together, took pictures, and you posted and tagged me several times. You also came to Afro-D Apartment where we made more videos together. But after your trip, everything changed. When I spoke to you about posting our content, you clearly told me you couldn’t post me or share my videos anymore....