Author: Opalim Lifted

Peter Obi, Former Anambra State governor has opened up on his decision to leave the African Democratic Congress (ADC), citing a hostile political environment and growing internal crises within opposition spaces. In a reflective message shared on Sunday via his official X page, the former Labour Party presidential candidate described Nigeria’s political atmosphere as “increasingly toxic”, marked by intimidation, insecurity, and persistent internal divisions. ‘System working against the people’ Obi said many Nigerians are unaware of the “silent pains” and pressures faced by individuals trying to serve sincerely within the system. According to him, the structures meant to protect citizens…

As the international community marks the 2026 World Press Freedom Day, the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) and the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) have urged President Bola Tinubu-led Federal Government, state governors, and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, to urgently ensure press freedom, protect journalists, and bring an end to escalating insecurity and widespread human rights violations across parts of northern Nigeria, including Benue, Borno, Kwara, Plateau, and Sokoto states. SERAP and NGE made the call on Sunday in a statement issued following a conference and interactive session on “The Role of the…

The General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Enoch Adeboye, has dismissed claims that the church is aligned with any political party, insisting that it remains a place of worship open to all Nigerians regardless of political affiliation. Speaking during the May monthly Holy Ghost Service tagged “Excellent Counsel,” Adeboye said suggestions that RCCG is linked to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) are unfounded, noting that members of different political parties freely worship together. “Some people are saying RCCG is an APC church. I just smile. In RCCG, you will find a governor from the Peoples…

Dangote Group has dismissed claims of a fallout between its founder, Aliko Dangote, and Tony Elumelu, chairman of the United Bank for Africa (UBA), describing the reports as false and malicious. The denial follows a viral post on X by a user identified as Oghneminehhhhh, which alleged that Dangote recounted financial difficulties during the construction of his refinery in 2021. According to the post, the project was only halfway completed when Dangote reportedly ran out of funds and sought financial support from business associates, including Femi Otedola, Abdulsamad Rabiu, and Mike Adenuga. The post further claimed that Elumelu promised to…

The Nigerian Army has arrested a social media influencer, Justice Mark Chidiebere, widely known as “Justice Crack”, over allegations of inciting soldiers and breaching military social media rules. In a statement issued on Saturday, Appolonia Anele, acting director of army public relations, said the influencer shared online complaints from soldiers regarding poor feeding and welfare conditions. According to the army, early findings suggest Chidiebere engaged in conversations with some personnel that went beyond airing grievances. Officials claim he may have encouraged discontent within the ranks—raising concerns about discipline and internal stability. Anele pointed to what she described as “subversive discussions”…

Julius Malema, a South African opposition politician, has condemned citizens who launch xenophobic attacks against foreigners in the country over claims of job loss. Malema recently spoke during an event organised to commemorate the 14th anniversary of the Collen Mashawana Foundation. Recently, videos of violent attacks against African immigrants, particularly Ghanaians, Zimbabweans, and Nigerians in South Africa, went viral on social media. The Nigerian Consulate in Johannesburg said two Nigerians — Amaramiro Emmanuel and Ekpenyong Andrew were killed amid escalating xenophobic tensions. Speaking during the event, Malema, leader of the Economic Freedom Fighters, challenged perpetrators of attacks on foreigners and…

Ipswich Town secured an immediate return to the Premier League after defeating Queens Park Rangers to seal the Championship’s second automatic promotion spot. Relegated 12 months ago after just four wins in their first top-flight season in 22 years, Kieran McKenna’s side have bounced back straight away. With matters in their own hands going into the final day, Ipswich knew that three points at Portman Road would nullify anything promotion rivals Millwall or Middlesbrough could do. Goals inside the first nine minutes from George Hirst and Jaden Philogene set them on their way before substitute Kasey McAteer added a late…

Fear has gripped residents of Katsina State after suspected bandits abducted more than a dozen women and young children during a late-night attack on Sabon Layi community in Bakori Local Government Area. The raid, which unfolded at about 9:45pm yesterday, saw heavily armed attackers storm the quiet settlement and target specific households. Eyewitness accounts indicate that the victims estimated at 15 or more include breastfeeding mothers and infants who were taken alongside them. According to local sources, the assailants headed directly to homes belonging to a man identified as Mallam Aliyu and his younger brother. The attackers reportedly moved with…

Former Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, has emphasised the need for Africa to play a leading role in shaping the future of global development partnerships. Osinbajo made the remarks while speaking at the AfricaXchange 2026 held in Nairobi, Kenya. He shared details of the discussions in a post on his official Instagram page. According to Osinbajo, the summit featured a panel discussion on the theme, “Future of Development Cooperation: How Africa Shapes the Next Era of Partnership.” He participated alongside Nardos Bekele-Thomas of AUDA-NEPAD, Mamadou Biteye, and Moky Makura. The session was moderated by William Asiko. The former vice president…

Troops of the 17 Brigade of the Nigerian Army have dealt a heavy blow to armed groups in Katsina State, killing four suspected terrorist commanders during a fierce encounter on Friday. The operation, which took place along the Turare–Yantumaki road, saw soldiers repel an ambush and swiftly turn the tide against their attackers. According to the state Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr Nasir Muazu, the troops were on a fighting patrol when they came under attack around 11:40 a.m. The soldiers responded decisively, pursuing and neutralising all four assailants without suffering any casualties. Authorities identified the slain…