Senator Barinada Mpigi, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Works, has passed away at 64.
He represented Rivers South-East senatorial district and was born on June 23, 1961.
Mpigi had a notable career, serving in the House of Representatives from 2011 to 2019 and later becoming a senator in 2019 under the Peoples Democratic Party.
He led a joint Senate committee investigating crude oil theft in the Niger Delta region during the Ninth Assembly.
At the time of filing this report, no official statement has been issued on the reported death.
President Bola Tinubu has defended his decision to sign the Electoral Act 2026 (Amendment) into law, emphasizing that election credibility depends on proper management and human oversight rather than real-time electronic transmission of results.
Tinubu spoke shortly after signing the amendment at the Presidential Villa, Abuja on Wednesday.
“It’s not as important as the history aspects of this. What is crucial is the fact that you manage the process to the extent there will be no confusion, no disenfranchisement of Nigerians, and that we are all going to see democracy flourish,” he said.
He stressed that elections are ultimately managed and concluded by people, regardless of technological systems.
“No matter how good the system is, it’s managed by the people, promoted by the people, and the result is finalised by the people,” the President said.
While addressing debates over the transmission of election results, Tinubu said final results would not be determined by computers but by designated electoral officials.
He stated: “In fact, for final results, you are not going to be talking to the computer; you are going to be talking to human beings who will announce the final results.
“And when you look at the crux of various arguments, maybe Nigerians should question our broadband capability. How technically are we today? How technically will we be tomorrow to answer the call of either real-time or not?”
He reiterated that voting remains fundamentally manual, from ballot issuance to counting.
“And as long as you appear personally, as a manual voter in any polling booth, a ballot paper is given to you manually, you decide in a corner and thumbprint the person of your choice, you cast your votes, without hindrance and any interference, ballots are subsequently counted manually, sorted, and counted manually,” Tinubu added.
According to him, what is transmitted electronically is essentially the arithmetic record captured in Form EC8A after manual collation.
“It’s just the arithmetic accuracy that is to enter into Form EC8A. It’s the manual, essentially. The transmission of that manual result is what we’re looking at.
“And we need to avoid glitches — I’m glad you did — interference, unnecessary hacking in this age of computer inquisitiveness.
“Nigeria will be there. We will flourish. We will continue to nurture this democracy for the fulfillment of our dream for the prosperity and stability of our country,” the President added.
The Rivers State House of Assembly has suspended the impeachment process targeting Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Ngozi Odu, following intervention by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Assembly confirmed on Thursday.
During a resumed plenary session in Port Harcourt, lawmakers moved a motion to halt the proceedings, which had been initiated earlier this year over allegations of gross misconduct.
These included the demolition of the State House of Assembly complex and the approval of expenditures without legislative authorization.
The suspension comes amid ongoing efforts by federal authorities to mediate the political dispute and prevent further escalation.
Details on whether the impeachment process will be resumed at a later date remain unclear.
The Assembly’s action follows a period of tension in the state, with lawmakers and stakeholders expressing concern over governance issues and legislative oversight.
President Tinubu’s intervention underscores the federal government’s role in stabilizing state-level political conflicts and maintaining continuity of governance.
More updates are expected as the situation develops.
President Bola Tinubu has issued an Executive Order directing direct remittance of oil and gas revenues to the Federation Account.
The order is to safeguard and enhance revenues, curb wasteful spending and eliminate duplicative structures in the sector.
This is contained in a statement issued by Presidential Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga, on Wednesday in Abuja.
The President signed the order pursuant to Section 5 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).
It is anchored on Section 44(3) of the Constitution, which vests ownership and control of mineral resources in the Federal Government.
Tinubu said the directive sought to restore constitutional revenue entitlements of the three tiers of government removed in 2021 by the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA).
He said the PIA created structural and legal channels through which substantial Federation revenues were lost through deductions, charges and fees.
Under the current PIA framework, NNPC Limited retains 30 per cent of the Federation’s oil revenues as a management fee on Profit Oil and Profit Gas.
He said the company also retained 20 per cent of its profits to cover working capital and future investments.
Tinubu said the additional 30 per cent management fee was unjustified, given the existing 20 per cent retention.
He said NNPC Ltd. also retained another 30 per cent of its profit oil and profit gas as the Frontier Exploration Fund under sections 9(4) and (5) of the PIA.
Tinubu said the fund risked accumulating idle cash balances and encouraging inefficient exploration spending.
He said the order also addressed the Midstream and Downstream Gas Infrastructure Fund (MDGIF) created under Section 52(7)(d) of the PIA.
The MDGIF is funded by gas flaring penalties, even though the PIA already established an Environmental Remediation Fund under Section 103.
He said the overlapping funds and deductions far exceeded global norms and effectively divert more than two-thirds of potential remittances.
Tinubu said the Executive Order would resolve duplicative deductions by addressing overlapping provisions across relevant laws and regulatory instruments.
According to him, the objective is to eliminate multiple layers of deductions that erode revenues meant for the Federation Account.
The President also raised concerns over the continued role of NNPC Limited as a concessionaire under Production Sharing Contract arrangements.
He said the framework created competitive distortions and undermined NNPC Ltd.’s transition into a fully commercial operator.
Tinubu said the order introduced immediate measures to curb leakages, enhance transparency and reposition NNPC Ltd. strictly as a commercial enterprise.
He said the reforms were urgent given their implications for national budgeting, debt sustainability and economic stability.
Tinubu said his administration would also undertake a comprehensive review of the PIA in consultation with stakeholders.
According to the order, NNPC Ltd. will no longer collect and manage the 30 per cent Frontier Exploration Fund.
It said the 30 per cent profit oil and gas currently earmarked for the fund must henceforth be transferred to the Federation Account.
The order also states that NNPC Limited will no longer be entitled to the 30 per cent management fee on profit oil and profit gas revenues.
All operators and contractors under production sharing contracts must, from Feb. 13, pay royalty oil, tax oil, profit oil, profit gas and other interests directly to the Federation Account.
Tinubu, however, suspended payments of gas flare penalties into the MDGIF.
Proceeds from all penalties imposed on operators for gas flaring must be paid into the Federation Account.
The order directs that all expenditure from the MDGIF must comply with extant public procurement laws, policies and regulations.
Tinubu approved the constitution of a joint project team to execute integrated petroleum operations.
The Commission will serve as an interface with licensees and lessees where upstream and midstream operations are fully combined.
The President also approved the establishment of an Implementation Committee to oversee the coordinated execution of the order.
Members include the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, and the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice.
Others are the Minister of Budget and National Planning and the Minister of State, Petroleum Resources (Oil).
Also listed are the Chairman, Nigeria Revenue Service, a representative of the Ministry of Justice and the Special Adviser to the President on Energy.
The Director-General, Budget Office of the Federation, will serve as the secretariat to the committee.
Illegal miners killing off life in Jos Wildlife Park
A gas explosion at a mining site in Kampani Zurak, Plateau State, has claimed the lives of at least 37 people, with 25 others injured and receiving treatment at nearby hospitals.
Although the Plateau State Government puts the casualty at 33, but the council chairperson said 37 people died in the explosion.
The incident, reportedly caused by carbon monoxide poisoning, occurred at a site owned by Solid Unit Nig. Ltd.
The unfortunate incident was confirmed by the Commissioner for Information, Joyce Ramnap, who expressed deep shock and sadness.
“The Plateau Government received with deep shock and profound sadness reports of a tragic explosion at a mining site in Kampani Zurak, reportedly owned by Solid Unit Nig. Ltd.
“Preliminary information has it that 33 persons were said to have been inside the mining tunnel at the time of the explosion.
“Others who sustained injuries are currently receiving treatment in nearby hospitals.
“Government is deeply concerned about the development and is working closely with relevant security agencies, emergency responders and health authorities to ensure that the situation is brought under control,” she said
The Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, has ordered the shutdown of the mine and launched an investigation into the incident.
The government is working with security agencies and emergency responders to manage the situation.
This incident highlights concerns about safety standards in Nigeria’s mining industry, particularly in artisanal and small-scale operations.
The Nigerian military has arrested several officers, including Major H. Yusuf, in connection with an alleged coup plot against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
The coup saga, which has been ongoing since 2025, involves 40 suspects, including senior military officers, a police officer, and civilians.
Major Yusuf, according to Sahara Reporters, is being detained alongside other suspects in connection with what authorities have described as a coup plot.
Though, details surrounding the alleged conspiracy is shrouded in secrecy.
Yusuf, a member of the 57 Regular Course recently completed his Senior Course at the Armed Forces Command and Staff College, Jaji.
The Defence Headquarters has noted that the officers will face a military Court Martial, stressing that the process is disciplinary and aimed at preserving internal discipline and cohesion within the armed forces.
Thames Valley Police have arrested Prince Andrew, Duke of York, on suspicion of misconduct in public office, the force confirmed on Wednesday.
According to reports, the arrest coincides with searches being carried out at properties in Berkshire and Norfolk.
Police said the investigation involves an allegation that the former royal shared confidential material with the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Officers were seen arriving at the Sandringham Estate in Norfolk earlier this morning.
Prince Andrew, who turns 66 today, has consistently and strenuously denied any wrongdoing.
Thames Valley Police stated that they are actively assessing the complaint and will provide further updates as the investigation progresses.
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Nyesom Wike, has hailed President Bola Tinubu for the prompt signing of the Electoral Act Amendment Bill 2026 into law.
Mr Wike, in a statement signed by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Mr Lere Olayinka, in Abuja on Wednesday, described the development as “apt”.
The News Agency of Nigeri reports that Tinubu on Wednesday signed the Act into law, which was passed by the National Assembly on Tuesday.
The amendment comes amid intense public debate over the electronic transmission of election results in real time.
The harmonised report of the bill, including the contentious Section 60(3), was passed by both chambers of the National Assembly
Mr Wike described Tinubu’s assent as a demonstration of his commitment to deepening the democratic process by making elections more credible.
According to him, the development has ended the unnecessary protest over the electoral act.
“Democracy has always been a work-in-progress due to the evolving democratic process. However, we will keep getting better by always looking into the Electoral Act with a view to strengthening our democratic process.
“I, therefore, congratulate Mr President and the National Assembly members for playing their roles in this dispensation to make democracy stronger.
“Particularly, I commend the President for not keeping Nigerians waiting for more than 24 hours before signing the Electoral Act Amendment Bill into law,” he said.
The United Kingdom may deny entry to children born overseas to British parents unless they carry the proper documentation, the Home Office announced on Wednesday.
Under the new rule, effective February 25, 2026, dual-national children cannot use the electronic travel authorisation (ETA) granted to most visitors.
Instead, they must either present a valid British passport or obtain a certificate of entitlement, which costs £589.
A Home Office spokesperson said the policy applies to all British citizens with dual nationality, including infants, even if travelling with a parent holding a British passport.
“Public information advising dual nationals to carry the correct documentation has been available since October 2024, with a communications campaign about the ETA running since 2023,” the spokesperson added.
Officials explained that the measure is part of broader efforts to modernise the UK’s digital border systems and to differentiate dual nationals from illegal visa overstayers.
The certificate of entitlement will now be valid permanently, requiring only a single application.
The Home Office stressed that carrying a British passport remains the preferred option.
Failure to present the correct documents could result in denied boarding or refusal at the UK border, although Border Force officers retain discretion to allow entry.
Nigeria and Germany have agreed to strengthen bilateral ties, with a focus on security, energy, and infrastructure, the Presidency announced on Wednesday.
The commitment followed a telephone conversation between President Bola Tinubu and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, during which both leaders also explored collaboration in creative arts and skill development.
President Tinubu highlighted Nigeria’s need for support in power transmission under the Presidential Power Initiative.
Chancellor Merz pledged assistance through Siemens for technical support and Deutsche Bank for project financing.
Security concerns in the Sahel region were also discussed, with Tinubu requesting used helicopters to aid intelligence and reconnaissance operations.
“The Sahel corridor is challenging and needs our support. Intelligence reconnaissance is critical,” he said.
The leaders additionally reviewed the longstanding diplomatic relationship between Nigeria and Germany, which spans over 65 years.
Chancellor Merz noted Germany is awaiting the arrival of Nigeria’s new ambassador and suggested initiatives to promote African arts, including the establishment of the Great Museum of African Arts.
The brief call, which began at 2:01 p.m. and lasted nine minutes, underscores both countries’ interest in deepening strategic and cultural cooperation.
Cubana Chief Priest has urged the South-East and Igbo people to support President Bola Tinubu’s 2027 re-election bid, arguing it could increase chances of producing an Igbo president in future.
He cited Tinubu’s influence and track record, referencing his role in former President Muhammadu Buhari’s 2015 victory and his own 2023 win.
Chief Priest made the appeal in a post on his official Instagram page while reacting to a viral video of Lawrence Agubuzu, the traditional ruler of the Ezema Olo Kingdom in Enugu State.
In the video, the paramount ruler appealed to Tinubu to facilitate the release of Nnamdi Kanu.
While responding to the video, Cubana Chief Priest called on the President to consider the monarch’s plea and commended the royal father for speaking up.
“Mr President, we will do all we can, but please hear our cry, @officialasiwajubat. The message is very clear. God bless Your Royal Highness for participating in Nigeria. If Your Highness did not participate in Abuja, how would Asiwaju have heard this message?” he wrote.
He further stated: “If they say they did not record this video to play for you, then call His Royal Highness out and tell him not to collect any money. Alignment is key. We cannot fight the government. Asiwaju should free MNK. His Royal Highness has placed it before Baba.”
Mr Okechukwu reiterated that Tinubu secured victory in the 2023 presidential election without significant support from the South-East, arguing that aligning with the President ahead of 2027 would place the region in a stronger bargaining position.
“Let us move along with Nigeria. In the last election, Tinubu won without the South-East; it is clear he will win again. So why not give him the votes so he can do what we ask of him in return? Hopefully, he will hand over power to an Igbo man.
“He made Buhari, a Hausa man, president. He made himself, a Yoruba man, president. What makes you think he will not make an Igbo man president if we clearly support him for one more term?” he added.
According to him, the Igbo people’s political interest would be better served through strategic alignment with Tinubu.
“The Igbo people’s best stake is with Asiwaju. Just think about it. The man has the best political structure in the country to win an election. Let us not waste our votes,” he stated.
A woman identified as Aleti Crystal has triggered widespread reactions online after making a controversial statement about what she described as a personal “business” of physically confronting men accused of abusing women and minors.
In a viral post, Crystal claimed she targets men who allegedly beat pregnant women, assault underaged girls, or commit rape. She further stated that she plans to begin working with law enforcement and set a personal goal of confronting 1,000 alleged offenders before 2027.
Her comments have sparked intense debate across social media platforms. While some users applauded her passion for defending vulnerable women and children, others expressed concern about the dangers of vigilantism and taking the law into one’s own hands.
Legal experts consistently warn that physical retaliation, even when motivated by anger over serious crimes, can lead to criminal charges. Assault, regardless of the reason, remains a punishable offense under Nigerian law. Many commentators emphasized that allegations of abuse must be handled through proper legal channels to ensure justice is served fairly and safely.
Advocacy groups working to combat gender-based violence have also weighed in on similar situations in the past, stressing that while public frustration is understandable, collaboration with trained law enforcement officers, social services, and the judicial system is the safest and most effective way to protect victims.
The issue highlights growing public outrage over cases of domestic violence and sexual abuse in Nigeria. Activists continue to call for stronger enforcement of existing laws, faster prosecution of offenders, and better protection systems for survivors.
As conversations continue online, the situation underscores a larger tension between emotional reactions to injustice and the importance of due process. Authorities have not yet released any official statement regarding Crystal’s claims.
Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai is in custody of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) for investigation.
He was transferred to ICPC headquarters in Abuja after spending 48 hours at the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), where he was granted bail.
The ICPC confirmed El-Rufai’s detention, stating he’s being held “in connection with investigations” but didn’t disclose details.
The move follows a three-count charge filed by the Department of State Services (DSS) against El-Rufai for allegedly intercepting National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu’s phone communications, violating cybercrime laws.
El-Rufai had alleged ICPC, acting on Ribadu’s orders, directed DSS to arrest him.
He faces separate allegations of financial misconduct, including diverting N423 billion and money laundering, which he denies.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced a significant increase in voter registrations, with over 1.2 million Nigerians successfully completing the process in the second phase of the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise as of February 13, 2026.
Specifically, 1,228,648 eligible voters had fully registered by Week Six of Phase II, up from 884,737 at the end of Week Five.
Also, the commission said 673,124 applicants initiated their registration online, while 555,524 completed the process physically at designated registration centres nationwide.
State-by-state data shows that Jigawa State recorded the highest number of new registrants with 98,698 voters, accounting for 8.03 per cent of the total.
It is followed by Lagos State (86,307), Sokoto State (77,004), and Kano State (71,990).
On gender distribution, INEC reported that 696,891 registrants (57 per cent) are female, while 531,757 (43 per cent) are male.
Youths aged 18 to 34 make up the majority, with 848,066 registrations, representing 69.02 per cent of the total figure.
The commission also noted that 19,414 Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) have registered nationwide during the exercise
Despite ongoing debates over the electronic transmission of election results, Nigeria’s major telecommunications operators have dismissed claims that the country lacks the infrastructure to support real-time result transmission for the 2027 general elections.
Speaking after President Bola Tinubu signed the Electoral Act 2026 (Amendment) into law, telcos including MTN Nigeria, Airtel, Globacom, and T2 Mobile, under the Association of Licensed Telecom Operators of Nigeria (ALTON), said objections by some National Assembly members are based on “half-truths” rather than current industry data.
Gbenga Adebayo, ALTON chairman, highlighted that over 70 percent of Nigeria is covered by 3G and 4G networks, with 5G reaching about 11 percent of the country.
Even areas with 2G coverage, he said, are technically capable of transmitting polling unit results electronically.
While acknowledging security and operational challenges in a few insurgency-affected states, Adebayo emphasized that such issues should be addressed collaboratively rather than used to justify a nationwide ban on e-transmission.
President Tinubu, however, emphasized that elections are ultimately managed by people, not computers.
“Final results will be determined by electoral officials, not machines,” he said, stressing that human oversight and proper management are key to credible elections.
The House of Representatives defended the inclusion of a manual transmission option in the law as a safeguard against unforeseen technical failures.
Deputy Spokesperson Philip Agbese said the provision ensures that elections are not stalled or invalidated in areas where technology may fail.
Similarly, lawmaker Gboyega Nasir Isiaka explained that the adjustment reflects operational realities, such as inconsistent network coverage and security concerns in parts of the country.
Meanwhile, former INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner Mike Igini raised security concerns over manual transmission, warning that presiding officers could face threats at polling units if electronic results are declared unavailable.
Civic advocate and former Education Minister Obiageli Ezekwesili reaffirmed confidence in e-transmission, calling it a critical tool for transparency and reducing electoral malpractice.
She said proper deployment would make it nearly impossible to manipulate results.
Former Senator Shehu Sani also weighed in, cautioning that e-transmission alone cannot guarantee credible elections.
He stressed that structural and ethical challenges in the electoral system must be addressed, while supporting the inclusion of manual collation as a practical backup.
The debate comes amid preparations for Nigeria’s 2027 elections, with stakeholders emphasizing the need for both technological innovation and practical safeguards to protect the integrity of the voting process.
Titles in Igbo cosmology are never ornamental. They are condensed philosophies. They are biographies written in metaphor. “Ọgbụnechendo” is not a flourish appended to royalty; it is an ethical blueprint. Ọgbụ – the great oak. Not shrub, not vine, not seasonal grass, but oak: thick-rooted, time-tested, wide-armed. An oak does not wander; it endures. It does not whisper in passing winds; it stands and receives them.
To call a monarch Ọgbụnechendo is to imagine him as arboreal sovereignty – trunk firm, bark weathered, branches exuberant with foliage that casts shadow for his subjects. Shade in tropical semiotics is not mere comfort; it is survival. It is refuge from blistering sun, a gathering place for dispute resolution, storytelling, reconciliation. The village square is often under a tree. Justice, in many indigenous settings, is deliberated beneath leaves. Thus, when Eze Ọgbụnechendo speaks truth to power, he is not straying from his title; he is inhabiting it.
An oak that refuses to provide shade has betrayed its nature. A monarch who refuses to shield his people from the heat of injustice has abdicated more than speech – he has abdicated meaning. The oak’s canopy is not decorative; it is protective. And protection, in a democratic republic, includes protection from political neglect, asymmetrical justice, and the slow violence of un-kept promises.
In February 2023, when he reminded political visitors that decades of loyalty had yielded unemployment and insecurity, he was widening his canopy. The sun of disillusionment had grown harsh; his people stood exposed. To speak was to extend shadow. The oak did not uproot itself; it did not march into the capital. It remained where it had always stood; yet, it allowed its branches to stretch outward, intercepting the glare of power with words.
Shade, however, is not softness. The oak’s bark is coarse. Its roots split rock. There is a tensile strength in arboreal patience. Oaks grow slowly, but when matured, they are difficult to uproot. So too with moral authority. It accumulates over seasons of consistency. When Eze Ọgbụnechendo invokes communal memory, when he speaks as royal father rather than partisan actor, he draws from deep roots. His speech carries weight not because it is loud, but because it is anchored.
In February 2026, when he moved from irony to directive – “Bring this man out” – the oak was no longer merely shading; it was creaking under strain. A tree that shelters many must sometimes groan in storm. The intensification of his illocutionary force mirrors the oak’s response to escalating weather. The trunk does not flee the wind; it absorbs and resists. To remain silent in that moment would have been to allow the storm to strip leaves from those gathered beneath.
The metaphor deepens further. Under an oak, hierarchy softens. The wealthy and the poor share shade. In invoking national unity while exposing regional asymmetry, Eze Ọgbụnechendo insists that the canopy of Nigeria must not privilege one cluster of branches over another. If one region basks in honor while another bakes in detention and grief, then the national tree is lopsided. Its foliage is uneven. Its shadow falls selectively.
To call attention to this imbalance is not to hack at the trunk of the nation; it is to prune for symmetry. Pruning is often mistaken for hostility. It is, in truth, an act of care. By confronting asymmetry, the monarch performs horticulture on the body politic. He trims excess rhetoric, cuts away diseased complacency, and invites healthier growth.
There is also solitude in oakhood. The tallest tree attracts lightning. A monarch who speaks candidly in elite-controlled spaces invites scrutiny, even reprisal. Yet the oak does not shrink to avoid the sky. It rises because rising is its nature. Eze Ọgbụnechendo’s moral intermediary role carries similar exposure. To address a President directly, to question dominant narratives in ceremonial arenas, is to risk becoming a target of political weather. But shade requires height. Without elevation, there is no canopy.
As royal father, his speech embodies paternal pragmatics. A father’s rebuke is neither anarchic nor sycophantic. It is corrective. It presumes belonging. When he criticizes a party long supported by his people, he does so as one chastising a familiar son, not denouncing a stranger. When he urges executive action in 2026, he speaks not as insurgent but as elder. The oak does not exile those beneath it; it calls them to account within shared space.
Moreover, exuberant foliage suggests multiplicity. Leaves are many; trunk is one. His speeches reflect this duality. The “we” of 2023 – voicing collective grievance – resembles the countless leaves that rustle with communal breath. The singular “I” of 2026 – “I don’t feel very happy” – signals the trunk’s personal resonance. Both registers are necessary. Without leaves, the oak cannot photosynthesize collective will; without trunk, the leaves scatter.
The oak also marks time. It remembers seasons. Its rings record drought and abundance alike. When Eze Ọgbụnechendo invokes historical lineage – the founding of a political party, the long arc of regional experience – he speaks as tree-ring historian. He reminds power that communities remember. The oak’s memory resists political amnesia. It says: we have stood here before; we have seen cycles; we measure promises against years, not weeks.
Truth can be bitter; yet, suppressed truth ferments and foments gangrenous boil that festers. The challenge for Nigeria is to allow truth to be spoken without allowing the federation to splinter under its weight. Speaking truth to power, then, becomes less an act of rebellion than an act of shade-giving fidelity. The oak does not despise the sun; it moderates it. Power is not inherently evil; it is potentially scorching. The monarch’s role is to ensure that governance warms without burning. His discourse functions as canopy calibration—ensuring that the state’s radiance does not become blaze.
In Nigeria’s hybrid governance landscape – where constitutional authority coexists with traditional legitimacy – the image of Ọgbụnechendo acquires renewed relevance. The oak bridges epochs. It predates the republic yet continues to grow within it. By rising to the occasion of speaking truth to power, Eze Ọgbụnechendo demonstrates that traditional authority need not be ornamental nostalgia. It can be living timber – structural, load-bearing, ethically resonant.
If the republic is a vast forest of competing interests, then figures like Ọgbụnechendo remind it of vertical accountability. Trees grow upward, but their strength lies downward. Roots unseen sustain branches admired. Moral critique, when voiced from rooted authority, stabilizes rather than destabilizes. It prevents rot from hollowing the trunk of state legitimacy.
In that delicate act of speaking – firm yet faithful – traditional authority reclaims its ancient role: not as servant of the state, nor as rival to it, but as conscience within it. And so, when he stands in gilded halls and allows his words to cast shadow, he is not stepping outside his title; he is stepping into it. The oak spreads because it must. It shades because it was named to do so. It withstands storm because fragility would betray its essence. Eze Ọgbụnechendo – great oak with exuberant foliage – does not shout down the forest. He stands within it, tall and deliberate, reminding both sun and soil that those who gather beneath him deserve not only shade, but justice.
Russia has warned that any new U.S. military strike on Iran could have serious consequences, urging Washington to exercise restraint and seek a diplomatic solution to allow Tehran to continue its nuclear program peacefully.
Speaking in an interview with Saudi Arabia’s Al-Arabiya television, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov emphasized that previous strikes on Iranian nuclear sites monitored by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) carried “real risks of a nuclear incident.”
He added that no regional actor wants escalating tensions in the Middle East, describing any military action as “playing with fire.”
Lavrov’s comments came a day after indirect talks between U.S. and Iranian negotiators in Geneva aimed at defusing a growing crisis over Tehran’s nuclear ambitions.
While Iran agreed on a set of guiding principles during the discussions, U.S. officials said many details remain unresolved.
A senior U.S. official also indicated that Iran is expected to submit a written proposal to address the standoff.
Russia has maintained close contact with Iranian leaders and believes Tehran is committed to resolving the nuclear issue within the framework of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty.
Lavrov also warned that heightened tensions could undermine recent diplomatic progress between Iran and neighboring states, particularly Saudi Arabia.
The U.S. has meanwhile increased its military presence in the region, with national security advisers briefing that all deployed forces should be fully in place by mid-March.
The buildup includes aircraft, naval assets, and carrier strike groups positioned to conduct potential airstrikes, even as diplomacy continues.
Experts warn that the situation remains highly volatile, with the risk of regional destabilization if talks fail or military action is taken.
The Ogun State Police Command has arrested a TikTok user identified as Mirabel after investigations reportedly found that her viral rape allegations were false.
Mirabel had earlier taken to social media claiming she was raped and attacked with a blade by an unknown man, a story that quickly gained traction online and sparked widespread outrage. The allegations drew sympathy from the public, with some individuals reportedly offering financial and emotional support.
However, following a formal investigation, police authorities stated that multiple inconsistencies were discovered in her account. According to findings shared by the command, neighbors reported no signs of forced entry or disturbance at the time the alleged incident occurred. There were also reportedly no screams or calls for help that might have indicated an attack.
Investigators further revealed that phone records and text messages did not align with her version of events. Authorities also stated that Mirabel allegedly gave conflicting statements during questioning and declined to undergo comprehensive medical and forensic examinations, despite these being made available through law enforcement agencies and supporting NGOs.
As a result, she was detained on allegations of providing false information, wasting police resources, and attempting to pervert the course of justice. Her TikTok account has since been set to private, with several videos removed. Reports also indicate that some individuals who donated money following her initial claims are now demanding refunds.
The police emphasized that false allegations of sexual assault are taken seriously because they can undermine genuine cases and harm real survivors seeking justice. At the same time, advocacy groups continue to stress the importance of handling all reports of sexual violence with sensitivity, thorough investigation, and due process.
Investigations into the matter are ongoing, and authorities say further updates will be provided as the case develops.
The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has confirmed that former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, is currently in its custody in connection with an ongoing investigation.
In a brief statement issued Wednesday, the commission’s spokesperson, J. Okor Odey, said El-Rufai was taken into custody and remained with the agency as of the close of work on February 18, 2026.
The ICPC did not disclose details of the allegations under investigation.
“Malam Nasiru El-Rufai is in the custody of the Commission in connection with investigations,” the statement said.
Earlier EFCC Invitation and Allegations
Earlier in the week, El-Rufai had presented himself at the headquarters of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) following an invitation over alleged financial misconduct during his tenure as Kaduna governor between 2015 and 2023.
In 2024, the Kaduna State House of Assembly accused the former governor of diverting ₦423 billion in public funds and engaging in money laundering, urging anti-corruption agencies to investigate the allegations.
The ICPC subsequently invited him for questioning.
Arrest Attempt and Security Dispute
Tensions escalated last Thursday when security operatives reportedly attempted to apprehend El-Rufai at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport upon his arrival from Cairo.
He later alleged that the ICPC, acting on the instruction of National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, directed officials of the Department of State Services (DSS) to arrest him.
On Monday, the DSS filed a three-count charge against him, accusing him of unlawfully intercepting the national security adviser’s telephone conversation.
Detention and Ongoing Investigation
Earlier reports indicated that El-Rufai spent two nights at the EFCC headquarters before being held by the DSS. His current detention by the ICPC marks the latest development in a series of investigations and legal actions involving the former governor.
Authorities say investigations are ongoing, while the former governor has not yet publicly responded to the latest development.
The United States is deploying one of its most powerful naval strike groups to the Middle East as tensions escalate over Iran’s nuclear programme and ongoing diplomatic deadlock.
President Donald Trump has ordered the deployment of the USS Gerald R. Ford the world’s largest and most advanced aircraft carrier alongside aerial refuelling tankers and advanced F-22 and F-35 fighter jets, according to defence reports.
The nuclear-powered carrier strike group departed the Atlantic earlier this week and is heading toward the Mediterranean Sea via the Strait of Gibraltar.
It is expected to join the USS Abraham Lincoln strike group already operating in the region.
The USS Gerald R. Ford can carry more than 75 aircraft, including F-35C stealth fighters, F/A-18 Super Hornets and electronic warfare jets.
The strike group is accompanied by guided-missile destroyers, enhancing both offensive and defensive capabilities.
In addition to naval deployments, more than 50 fighter aircraft including F-16, F-22 and F-35 jets have reportedly been repositioned closer to the Middle East. Some are stationed in allied bases in Jordan, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia.
The deployment represents one of the largest U.S. military buildups in the region in recent years and is widely seen as a show of force as negotiations over Iran’s nuclear activities stall.
Military analysts say the expanded presence would allow the U.S. to conduct deep airstrikes while providing defensive cover for troops and regional allies.
Iran has warned it would retaliate against U.S. forces and partners if attacked. Tehran recently conducted missile drills and temporarily closed the Strait of Hormuz during the exercises, signalling its readiness to respond to any strike.
Despite the buildup, the White House has not ruled out diplomacy.
Officials say military action remains an option if negotiations fail, but no final decision has been announced.
The deployment underscores growing fears of a broader regional conflict as both sides increase military readiness while diplomatic efforts continue
A social media user has stirred reactions online after publicly calling out Nigerian socialite and fashion entrepreneur Rahman Jago over the pricing of a Polo shirt allegedly selling for ₦560,000.
In a viral post, the man questioned why such an amount would be placed on what he described as a “basic design,” criticizing the heavy use of logos on the outfit. He went further to reference Nigerian singer Bella Shmurda, claiming that the last time he saw the artiste wearing one of the brand’s Polos, the excessive branding made him look like a junior secondary school student.
The comment quickly gained traction, sparking debate across social media platforms. While some users agreed that certain designer pieces are overpriced and overly branded, others defended Rahman Jago, arguing that fashion is subjective and luxury streetwear often thrives on bold logos and exclusivity.
Rahman Jago, known for his influence in Nigeria’s nightlife and entertainment scene, has built a reputation around premium lifestyle branding. Supporters say pricing in the fashion industry is often tied to brand identity, demand, celebrity association, and perceived value rather than just fabric or design simplicity.
On the other hand, critics argue that Nigerian consumers are becoming more vocal about pricing transparency and value for money, especially in a challenging economic climate.
As the debate continues, the conversation highlights a broader issue within the fashion space, the clash between luxury branding culture and public perception of affordability and taste.
Neither Rahman Jago nor Bella Shmurda has officially responded to the comment at the time of this report, but the discussion shows no sign of slowing down online.
A court in Seoul on Thursday sentenced former South Korean president Yoon Suk Yeol to life imprisonment after finding him guilty of leading an insurrection through his declaration of martial law in 2024.
Delivering the verdict at the Seoul Central District Court, presiding judge Ji Gwi-yeon ruled that Yoon deployed troops to the National Assembly in an attempt to silence political opponents and paralyse the legislature.
“The declaration of martial law resulted in enormous social costs, and it is difficult to find any indication that the defendant has expressed remorse,” the judge said while pronouncing the life sentence.
Martial Law Crisis
Yoon, 65, shocked the nation in December 2024 when he declared martial law during a televised address, claiming drastic action was necessary to eliminate “anti-state forces” in the legislature.
Lawmakers defied the order, rushing to the assembly building and barricading entrances with furniture to prevent armed troops from entering. The military rule order was lifted six hours later following an emergency parliamentary vote.
The move triggered nationwide protests, market instability and alarm among allies including the United States.
Charges and Sentencing
Yoon was later impeached, arrested and charged with multiple offences, including insurrection and obstruction of justice. Under South Korean law, insurrection carries penalties of either life imprisonment or death.
Prosecutors had sought the death penalty, but South Korea has maintained an unofficial moratorium on executions since 1997, making life imprisonment the most severe practical punishment.
Former defence minister Kim Yong-hyun received a 30-year sentence for his role in the crisis. Yoon had already been sentenced to five years on lesser charges in separate proceedings.
Thousands of supporters gathered outside the courthouse ahead of the ruling, waving placards and calling for charges to be dropped.
Heavy police presence surrounded the court complex to prevent unrest.
South Korea has long been regarded as a stable democracy, but the martial law attempt revived memories of the military coups that shook the country between 1960 and 1980.
Yoon has denied wrongdoing, insisting he acted to safeguard constitutional order against what he described as an opposition-led “legislative dictatorship.”
His wife, Kim Keon Hee, was sentenced earlier in January to 20 months in prison on separate bribery charges.
The ruling marks a dramatic fall for the former leader and underscores South Korea’s strict constitutional stance against attempts to subvert democratic governance.
Nollywood actress Bimbo Ademoye has set social media buzzing after playfully revealing that she is currently single and jokingly promising to marry fellow actor Timini Egbuson if his new film grosses ₦1 billion at the box office.
In a lighthearted moment that has since gone viral, Bimbo added that she would even give birth to twins for him if the ambitious milestone is achieved. Her statement, clearly made in a humorous tone, instantly sparked excitement among fans who love the chemistry between the two Nollywood stars.
Both actors are known for their vibrant on screen presence and playful friendship off screen. Their banter has often fueled dating rumors in the past, but neither has confirmed any romantic relationship. This latest comment has only added more fuel to fan fantasies, with many jokingly urging Nigerians to support the film just to see the “wedding” happen.
Timini Egbuson, often dubbed one of Nollywood’s most eligible bachelors, has built a reputation for starring in commercially successful films. A ₦1 billion box office target, however, is no small feat in the Nigerian film industry, making Bimbo’s promise even more entertaining.
Fans have taken to social media to share reactions, memes and playful countdowns, with some calling it the “₦1 billion love challenge.” While it appears to be all in good fun, the moment has once again highlighted how celebrity humor and chemistry can quickly become trending topics.
Whether serious or not, Bimbo Ademoye’s statement has certainly succeeded in drawing attention to Timini’s film and keeping fans entertained.
The United States military is prepared to launch strikes against Iran as early as this weekend, though President Donald Trump has not made a final decision, according to sources familiar with the matter.
Officials said the White House has been briefed that American forces could be ready to act following a significant buildup of air and naval assets across the Middle East.
However, Trump is said to be weighing both diplomatic and military options while consulting advisers and allies.
Senior national security officials met in the Situation Room on Wednesday to review developments.
Trump also received updates from envoy Steve Witkoff and adviser Jared Kushner regarding indirect negotiations between U.S. and Iranian representatives held in Geneva.
Although Iranian negotiators described the talks as establishing guiding principles, U.S. officials said key details remain unresolved.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that diplomacy remains Trump’s preferred path but emphasized that military action remains an option.
She added that Iran is expected to clarify its negotiating position in the coming weeks.
The U.S. has intensified its military presence near Iran.
The aircraft carrier USS Gerald Ford could arrive in the region within days, while refueling tankers and fighter jets stationed in the United Kingdom are being repositioned closer to the Middle East.
Meanwhile, satellite imagery suggests Iran is reinforcing parts of its nuclear infrastructure, reportedly using concrete and soil to protect sensitive facilities.
Several factors could influence the timing of any potential strike.
The Winter Olympics conclude Sunday, Ramadan has begun across much of the Muslim world, and Trump is scheduled to deliver his State of the Union address next week.
U.S. allies in the Middle East have reportedly urged restraint, warning that military action during the holy month could inflame regional tensions.
Uncertain Path Forward
Trump has repeatedly insisted Iran must not obtain a nuclear weapon and has hinted at broader strategic goals, but he has not publicly outlined specific objectives for military action.
As diplomatic contacts continue and military readiness increases, uncertainty remains over whether Washington will pursue negotiations or move toward confrontation.
“The worst kind of people to be friends with are people that are fame hungry, engagement hungry, money hungry and attention hungry. These people will launder your image without caring.”
Hilda Baci has sparked conversation online after sharing a strong message about the dangers of keeping the wrong company. Known for her record breaking cooking marathon and rising global profile, Hilda’s words struck a nerve, especially in an era where clout, virality and monetization often drive relationships.
In her statement, she warned about individuals who prioritize fame, online engagement, financial gain and public attention above loyalty or integrity. According to her, such people can easily launder someone’s image by using association, screenshots, private conversations or proximity to boost their own visibility, without considering the damage it may cause.
Her remarks have been widely interpreted as advice drawn from experience in the spotlight. Since her historic Guinness World Record attempt, Hilda has experienced intense public attention, brand partnerships and social media scrutiny. With fame often comes opportunists, people who attach themselves to rising stars for relevance.
Fans have reacted strongly to her statement, with many agreeing that in today’s social media culture, some friendships are transactional rather than genuine. The pressure to trend, go viral or monetize every interaction can blur the line between authenticity and self promotion.
Hilda’s message also highlights a broader issue in influencer and celebrity circles, reputation management. In a digital world where screenshots circulate instantly and narratives shift quickly, one wrong association can create long term consequences.
Supporters say her words are not just for celebrities but for anyone navigating ambitious spaces such as business, entertainment or even everyday social life. The takeaway is simple. Protect your name. Protect your peace. Choose your circle wisely.
