Abdul Abiola, son of the late Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola, Nigeria's acclaimed winner of the 1993 presidential election, has revealed startling claims of international and local conspiracies behind his father's death.

In an exclusive interview on Seun Okinbaloye's podcast, Abdul Abiola implicated undisclosed international and local forces in the demise of his father, suggesting they favored the late Sani Abacha assuming Nigeria's presidency.

Abdul attributed his father's death to the progressive policies Abiola intended to introduce in Nigeria and across Africa had he assumed office.

"A team of people worked against Abiola because he had plans to revolutionize Nigeria's oil industry by declaring daily barrels of oil," Abdul explained during the podcast.

He further elaborated on Abiola's visit to the United States, famously entering the country without a passport, where he engaged with then-President Bill Clinton. Abdul insinuated skepticism from international quarters regarding Abiola's agenda to bring democracy to Africa, contrasting it with perceived global hypocrisy on democratic principles.

The 1993 presidential election, which Abiola won, was controversially annulled by former military Head of State, Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida (IBB), sparking widespread unrest and political turmoil in Nigeria.

Abdul's disclosures shed new light on the complexities surrounding the circumstances leading to his father's death and the turbulent political landscape of Nigeria during that era.

MKO Abiola's legacy remains a pivotal chapter in Nigeria's history, symbolizing a struggle for democratic ideals and the pursuit of justice in governance.

Efforts to reach out to international and local entities allegedly involved in the events surrounding MKO Abiola's death have not yielded responses as of press time.

The revelations by Abdul Abiola underscore the enduring quest for accountability and transparency in Nigeria's political history, prompting renewed calls for truth and reconciliation regarding past injustices.

The Commissioner for Health in Lagos State, Prof. Akin Abayomi, has announced an increase in cholera-related fatalities to 15 amid ongoing efforts to contain the outbreak, urging residents to observe caution during the upcoming Eid-ul-Adha celebrations.

In a statement issued on Saturday, Abayomi disclosed that the state has recorded 350 suspected cases of cholera across 29 wards spanning multiple local government areas, with 17 cases confirmed and 15 resulting in fatalities.

Laboratory investigations have identified cholera sub-type O-1, associated with more severe disease outcomes. While reporting a decline in new cases within previously affected areas due to intensified interventions and surveillance, Abayomi highlighted new cases emerging in previously unaffected local government areas.

“Our Public Health Emergency Operations Centre (PHEOC) at Mainland Hospital, Yaba, is fully operational, coordinating responses to severe gastroenteritis cases reported across various LGAs,” Abayomi stated.

He underscored collaborative efforts between the Directorate of Environmental Health and the Lagos State Environmental Protection Agency, involving water and food sampling and facility inspections in affected areas. The distribution of cholera kits and oral rehydration solutions, alongside public health education campaigns, forms part of the state’s control measures.

Abayomi emphasized that a strategic meeting with the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control, World Health Organisation, and key partners had optimized intervention strategies. He urged residents to support government efforts by adhering to hygiene protocols and promptly reporting symptoms.

“As we approach the Eid-ul-Adha festivities, I urge residents to prioritize safe drinking water, thorough cooking of food, and rigorous personal hygiene practices. Avoiding crowded places and seeking immediate medical attention for symptoms such as watery diarrhea or vomiting remains critical,” Abayomi advised.

He reassured residents of free treatment for suspected cholera cases across government health facilities, reaffirming the state’s commitment to containing the outbreak and safeguarding public health.

Earlier reports from the state had identified severe gastroenteritis outbreaks in Eti Osa, Lagos Island, Ikorodu, and Kosofe LGAs, resulting in hospitalizations and fatalities primarily due to delayed medical attention.

The Lagos State Ministry of Health continues to monitor the situation closely, urging proactive community participation in sanitation activities to curb cholera transmission during the festive period.

In a startling declaration, Peter Agba Kalu, a prominent figure in Igbo affairs, has cautioned against dismissing recent reports of Nnamdi Kanu's purported escape from DSS detention as mere "fake news." Kalu, known for his outspoken views on Igbo rights and politics, emphasized the potential dangers should anything untoward happen to Kanu while in custody.

Speaking exclusively to Gistmania.com, Kalu voiced strong apprehensions regarding Kanu's safety, citing historical precedents and the fragile political climate surrounding the pro-Biafra leader. "Something might happen to him, and they will tell us he was shot while trying to escape," Kalu warned, alluding to past incidents involving Kanu and the authorities.

Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has been a polarizing figure in Nigeria's socio-political landscape, advocating for the secession of southeastern Nigeria. His arrest and subsequent detention by Nigerian security forces have sparked widespread controversy and international attention.

Kalu underscored Kanu's lack of a history of evading legal proceedings, pointing out the traumatic events surrounding the raid on his residence, which resulted in casualties. "His house was attacked, and many lives were lost the last time. He escaped by God's grace," Kalu stated, highlighting the precariousness of Kanu's circumstances.

"We will not accept Andrew Amaechi Ochekwo's story on Nnamdi Kanu," Kalu asserted firmly, referencing recent statements circulating about Kanu's alleged escape. He called upon the Igbo community to remain vigilant and united in demanding transparency and justice concerning Kanu's current status and well-being.

The unfolding situation surrounding Nnamdi Kanu continues to stir deep-seated emotions and concerns among his supporters and within the broader Nigerian public. Kalu's remarks serve as a stark reminder of the tensions surrounding Kanu's detention and the implications of any developments regarding his safety.

As the saga unfolds, Nigerians and international observers alike await further clarity on the circumstances surrounding Nnamdi Kanu's detention and the veracity of recent reports suggesting his escape.

Justice 0.0. Abike-Fadipe of the Special Offences Court sitting in Ikeja has handed down a 46-year prison sentence to Ugwu Pascal Chijioke and Ibrahim Sadia Adekunle for impersonating operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and perpetrating fraud through a fake court order.

The Lagos Zonal Command of the EFCC re-arraigned the defendants on an amended five-count charge, including impersonation, attempt to obtain property under false pretenses, possession of false documents, and unlawfully wearing EFCC uniforms.

According to the EFCC statement released on Saturday, the charges stem from incidents dating back to May 12, 2021, in Lagos. The duo attempted to deceive Oriyomi Johnson into believing that a court order from the "Chief Magistrate Court, Lagos State Judiciary, Mushin, Lagos" mandated the seizure and sealing of a property in New Horizon Estate, Lekki-Ikate, Lagos. This representation, claiming false authority, constituted an offense under Sections 8(b) of the Advanced Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act, 2006.

Furthermore, the defendants unlawfully wore jackets bearing the EFCC's official marks, misleading others into believing they were authorized personnel. This act violated Section 79(1)(b) of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2011.

In her ruling, Justice Abike-Fadipe condemned their actions as a threat to public trust and the integrity of law enforcement agencies. She emphasized the need to deter such criminal activities and protect the public from fraudulent schemes.

The EFCC has reaffirmed its commitment to prosecuting individuals involved in impersonation and financial fraud, urging the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities.

The sentenced individuals, Ugwu Pascal Chijioke and Ibrahim Sadia Adekunle, will serve their prison terms consecutively, ensuring accountability for their crimes against society.

Tension erupted in Nkomoro Community, Ezza North Local Government Area of Ebonyi State in the early hours of Saturday during a coronation ceremony, resulting in extensive damage to vehicles and attacks on journalists covering the event.

Reports from the scene indicate that as many as ten vehicles were left completely damaged amidst heavy hostilities that broke out over the selection of a new traditional ruler. Houses, motorcycles, and other valuable properties were also burnt beyond recognition, although there were no reported fatalities.

Journalists, including Uchenna lnya of The Sun Newspaper and Chinelo Okoro of Radio Nigeria Unity FM, Abakaliki, were among those attacked as they attempted to leave the coronation venue. They faced stones and other dangerous weapons wielded by the assailants.

Security personnel, including policemen, soldiers, and a Magistrate attached to the state judiciary, Amaechi Nwakpa, narrowly escaped harm in the chaos. The violence stemmed from disagreements over the coronation process, exacerbated by the intrusion of hired thugs who disrupted the ceremony.

The conflict arose from objections within the community regarding a letter from the state Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Matters, which mandated the coronation of Chief Jacob Nwakpa, a former Resident Electoral Commissioner of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). Despite a court order restraining the election and coronation, Chief Nwakpa was installed as the traditional ruler.

Following the coronation, enraged youths armed with weapons barricaded the Okpoku Eze Secondary School venue, vandalizing vehicles and setting off further unrest in the community, leading to the destruction of additional properties.

Efforts to obtain an official statement from the Ebonyi State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Joshua Ukandu, were unsuccessful as calls and messages went unanswered.

The situation remains tense in Nkomoro Community as authorities work to restore order and address the aftermath of the violent outburst.

In a significant breakthrough, operatives of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Command have arrested Ikechukwu Didi, a suspected gun-runner, and seized a substantial cache of firearms and ammunition. The arrest followed a meticulously planned operation based on credible intelligence.

According to Josephine Adeh, the command's spokesperson, the operation took place on June 7, 2024, around 2 PM. Didi, 54, was apprehended at Dutse Junction, FCT. The police recovered seven automatic pump-action guns and 1,000 live cartridges from his possession.

Adeh shared details of the arrest on her X handle, emphasizing the suspect's confession to the crime. "The suspect has confessed to the crime and will be charged to court soon," she wrote.

The arrest highlights the ongoing efforts of the FCT Command to combat illegal arms trade and enhance security within the region. The police have assured the public that further investigations are underway to dismantle the gun-running network and bring all involved parties to justice.

In a brazen attack, unidentified gunmen stormed the Ogbaru Local Government Secretariat in Anambra State early Saturday morning, setting ablaze at least four patrol vehicles. The attack, which caused widespread panic among residents, has intensified concerns about the security situation in the area.

Eyewitnesses reported that the assailants arrived in large numbers, shooting indiscriminately into the air. Although no casualties were recorded, the incident has left the community on edge. Just days prior, two soldiers escorting oil workers in the vicinity were ambushed and killed by gunmen, further escalating tensions.

"The activities of these hoodlums have sent panic throughout the area," a local source said. "Recently, an Army truck with five officers was ambushed at the Amaja axis (Ogwu-Ikpere), resulting in the deaths of two officers and injuring one."

Confirming the attack, Anambra State Police spokesperson Tochukwu Ikenga said the incident resulted in the destruction of four vigilante patrol vehicles. Ikenga detailed the sequence of events, highlighting the initial chaos and the eventual repulsion of the attackers by security forces.

"The Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Police Command, CP Nnaghe Obono Itam, has condemned the attack at the Ogbaru Local Government Area Headquarters Secretariat," Ikenga stated. "The armed arsonists, arriving in large numbers on motorcycles and a vehicle, began shooting indiscriminately. They encountered strong resistance from vigilante operatives until the police response team arrived. Due to the superior firepower of the security operatives, the gunmen fled the scene."

The police have launched an investigation into the incident, aiming to apprehend the perpetrators and prevent future attacks. The recent surge in violence has prompted local authorities to reassess security measures to protect residents and maintain order in the community.

The Imo State Police Command has apprehended Ogochukwu Favour, a robbery suspect, and confiscated a locally made pistol from him. The arrest was made by officers from the Shell Camp Divisional Headquarters during a routine patrol along Bank Road in Owerri.

ASP Henry Okoye, the command’s Public Relations Officer, issued a statement detailing the operation. The police officers observed a group of hoodlums robbing a young woman and promptly intervened. While most of the gang managed to escape, Favour was captured.

"Upon searching the suspect, officers recovered a locally made pistol from his possession. Efforts are ongoing to track down the fleeing accomplices and the manufacturer of the firearm," ASP Okoye said.

The suspect is currently under thorough investigation and will face legal proceedings following the completion of the inquiry. The Imo State Police Command continues to urge the public to report suspicious activities to aid in their fight against crime.

The 16th Emir of Kano, Alhaji Muhammadu Sanusi II, has expressed indifference toward the possibility of being dethroned again, emphasizing that his fate lies in God's hands.

Sanusi's tenure has been marked by political turbulence, notably when former Governor Abdullahi Ganduje dethroned him in 2020 due to a personal dispute. However, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf reinstated Sanusi, while the 15th Emir, Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero, is contesting his dethronement in court.

In an interview with *Saturday Sun*, Sanusi remarked on the uncertainty of his position. "For me, even now that I am here, only God knows how long I will be here. I can die tomorrow. Another governor can come tomorrow and say that he has removed me, it doesn’t matter."

Sanusi expressed satisfaction that the emirate's historical legacy remains intact despite the political upheaval. "I am happy if he does not touch the emirate. I am happy that I will not leave a history that it was during my time that these 1000 years of history was destroyed. So, I am grateful to this government, grateful to this Assembly that they have corrected that, that we have the emirate restored to what it was and Insha’Allah that when I die or when I leave, the person who inherits will inherit what we had. It’s about the system, not about me or about any individual."

Reflecting on his four-year absence from the throne, Sanusi shared insights on personal growth and resilience. "Life is always a continuous process of learning and relearning. And for me, I had always believed, as they say, that we should not waste a crisis. So, anytime I have a crisis, it’s an opportunity to do something else."

During his time away, Sanusi was far from idle. "In the last four years, I’ve not been idle. In fact, I had just completed writing a PhD Thesis at the University of London, a week before I returned to Kano. I will be going back next month to conclude some things because I will be graduating in September."

Sanusi's statements underscore his commitment to the emirate's enduring legacy and his pragmatic approach to the uncertainties of his role.

The Federal Government of Nigeria has initiated measures to empower local airlines with direct access to international routes, particularly to the United States and South America. This announcement was made by the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, during an interview on YouTube with O’tega Ogra, titled “Unfiltered: The Big Interview.”

Keyamo highlighted the ongoing efforts to bolster Nigeria’s aviation sector by negotiating Bilateral Air Service Agreements (BASA) with other sovereign states. "BASA are negotiated between different sovereigns. It is when you get your BASA and reciprocal rights that you can give them to local operators and ensure they are enforced as per the foreign entities," he explained. These agreements are crucial for enabling Nigerian airlines to operate international flights, providing competition that can help lower ticket prices.

In March, Air Peace launched its Lagos-London flight services, setting a precedent for more local airlines to enter international markets. Keyamo noted that British Airways had long enjoyed monopoly over certain routes, leading to exorbitant ticket prices. "Nigerians were buying tickets for as much as N15m to N16m for business class. This was an issue we could resolve by enforcing BASA, leading to Air Peace commencing flights on those routes and ticket prices subsequently dipping," he said.

The minister revealed that plans are in place to expand direct flight operations to the US and South America. “We are looking at the American routes and the South American routes. Nobody is flying to South America at all now, but something is in the offing to start that route,” he added.

Keyamo emphasized that merely securing routes is not enough; enhancing the capacity of local airlines to service these routes is also a priority. He pointed out that global airlines typically lease, rather than buy, their fleets. “No airline in the world buys its fleet 100 percent. They lease. Ensuring that our airlines can access aircraft in the same way will enhance their capacity to service international routes,” he stated.

This strategic move aims to not only boost the operations of Nigerian airlines but also ensure they can compete effectively on the global stage, thereby driving down costs and improving service quality for Nigerian travelers.

The Edo State Police Command has apprehended eight ex-convicts suspected of involvement in kidnapping activities in Uromi, Esan North East Local Government Area of the state. This significant development was disclosed by the Commissioner of Police, Funsho Adegboye, during a press briefing in Benin City.

According to Commissioner Adegboye, the arrests were made following credible intelligence provided by Daniel Ibhahebhomen, Sector 1 Commander of the Edo State Security Network (ESSN) in Uromi. The suspects were apprehended at various locations including Idumukhala’s quarters, Awo Uromi, Ugboha bush, and Egbele.

Among those arrested are a couple identified as Hope Ibhazukor and Oboh Odianosen, along with Ikekhua Ehiamen, known locally as a Juju priest. The other suspects include Kenneth Christopher, Patrick Saturday, Eric Itoha, Emeka Ojon, and Charity Oboh.

Commissioner Adegboye detailed that Asene Ogah, an ex-convict, was allegedly recruited by members of a criminal gang involving Hope Oboh Odianosen, Ikekhua Ehiamen, and others to participate in kidnapping operations.

During the arrests, law enforcement recovered several items believed to be linked to their criminal activities. These items include one double-barrel gun, a Dane gun, six rounds of live cartridges, a box containing various charms, and two toy pistols.

The Edo State Police Command assured the public of its commitment to combating crime and ensuring the safety of residents in the state. The suspects are currently in custody and will face prosecution in accordance with the law.

The arrest underscores ongoing efforts by security agencies to clamp down on criminal activities across Edo State, particularly in areas prone to kidnapping and other forms of violence.

In a swift operation, the Abia State Police Command has successfully rescued three abducted children and arrested five suspects, including a Reverend Sister, involved in the abduction across Anambra and Delta States.

Confirming the rescue and arrests, ASP Maureen Chinaka, spokesperson for the Abia State Police Command, issued a statement on Saturday, June 15, detailing the dramatic rescue mission.

According to the statement, the abduction occurred on May 10, 2024, when three young boys, Gideon Osinachi (eight years old), Obioma Divine Osinachi (six years old), and Israel Osinachi (four years old), were kidnapped by an unknown cyclist from Amoba Okoro village in Ikwuanno LGA of Abia State. The children were taken away by the cyclist who had been hired by their grandmother to transport them home after visiting her.

Obioma Divine Osinachi was rescued on May 21 in Ekwulobia, Anambra State, while Gideon Osinachi was found safe in Nkpor, Anambra State, on May 23. The youngest, Israel Osinachi, was rescued in Warri, Delta State, on June 13.

"We are pleased to announce that all three children have been rescued and reunited with their families," the statement assured.

During the intensive investigation and rescue operations conducted between May 10 and June 13, the police arrested four female suspects and one male suspect in connection with the abduction. The arrests were made in different locations including Amawbia and Nkpor in Anambra State, as well as Warri in Delta State. Among the arrested suspects are Reverend Sister Pauline Alozie, Chizoba DJ, Glory Umuna, Mrs. Georgina Nonye Okoye, and Philip Ibe.

The suspects are currently in custody and will face charges in court imminently, according to ASP Maureen Chinaka.

This successful operation underscores the Abia State Police Command's commitment to combating crime and ensuring the safety of residents, particularly children vulnerable to abduction.

Popular Nigerian comedian and content creator, Sabinus, has made a bold move into the cryptocurrency space by launching his own digital currency, Sabicoin, built on the Solana blockchain. This development mirrors a recent trend among celebrities, following in the footsteps of musicians and other entertainers.

Announcing the launch on his social media platforms, Sabinus excitedly shared the crypto address and link, inviting his followers to join the Sabicoin community. His post read, “Naija stand up! Sabicoin don land on Solana! #SabiCoin @sabicoin_”

The Solana blockchain is known for its speed and security in handling cryptocurrency transactions, providing a robust platform for Sabicoin's operations.

By introducing Sabicoin, Sabinus aims to engage his fans and supporters in a novel way, offering them an opportunity to invest in and interact with his brand directly through cryptocurrency. This move underscores his commitment to exploring new avenues within the digital economy.

Sabinus joins a growing cohort of celebrities embracing cryptocurrencies, leveraging their influence to bridge the gap between entertainment and technology while exploring new avenues for financial engagement with their fan base.

The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) has successfully repatriated nine Nigerian teenage girls who were allegedly trafficked to Ghana for prostitution. The girls returned to Nigeria on Friday, June 14, arriving at Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, around 9:55 pm.

In an announcement on its official X handle on Saturday, June 15, NIDCOM shared a video of the girls' arrival and detailed the rescue operation. The commission credited the successful repatriation to a coordinated effort led by the Chairman/CEO of NIDCOM, Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, alongside representatives from the Imo State Government, including Deputy Speaker Rt. Hon. Chyna Amara Iwuanyanwu and the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Mrs. Nkechinyere Ugwu.

Upon arrival, the girls were profiled and handed over to the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) for further care. "Hon. Abike mentioned that the rescued girls have been handed over to NAPTIP and their respective states for rehabilitation and counseling," NIDCOM stated.

In a statement, Abike Dabiri-Erewa emphasized the importance of proper rehabilitation and support for the victims. "The girls are undergoing proper rehabilitation and counseling courtesy of NAPTIP Nigeria and the governments of Imo and Plateau states," she said.

Additionally, NIDCOM confirmed that the trafficker responsible for the ordeal has been arrested and charged in Ghana, marking a significant step towards justice for the victims.

This operation underscores NIDCOM's commitment to protecting Nigerian citizens abroad and combating human trafficking. The successful return and rehabilitation of these young girls highlight the collaborative efforts of various government bodies in addressing such critical issues.

VIDEO: Nigerian teenage girls trafficked to Ghana arrive in Lagos – NIDCOM

The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) has disclosed that the nine Nigerian teenage girls allegedly trafficked to Ghana for prostitution have returned to Nigeria.

In a post via its X handle on… pic.twitter.com/8ObTwtpPn6

— The Nation Nigeria (@TheNationNews) June 15, 2024

In a shocking and tragic incident, a 45-year-old woman known as Abiodun, also called 'Iya Sunday,' set her 85-year-old mother ablaze, accusing her of witchcraft. The incident occurred on Surulere Street in the Ondo West Local Government Area.

The elderly victim, who sustained severe burns from head to toe, was rushed to the hospital for treatment but succumbed to her injuries on Saturday morning.

Eyewitnesses reported that the horrifying act took place early on Friday morning. According to Sola Oladele, one of the witnesses, Abiodun arrived at her mother’s house at 5 a.m., called her outside, and then doused her with petrol before setting her on fire.

"What transpired before the sad incident, we don’t know. But she came as early as 5 a.m and called out the old woman before pouring petrol on her," Oladele recounted.

Local residents quickly alerted the police from the Enu-Owa Division, leading to Abiodun’s arrest. During her interrogation, Abiodun claimed that her mother was responsible for her misfortunes, a belief she said was reinforced by a pastor's prophecy.

"I went to my mother’s house, and when it was 5 a.m., I called her out from the house. Immediately after she came out, I poured petrol on her and set her on fire. I did that because she is behind my predicament. I went to someone to pray and was told that she was behind all my problems. Firstly, I did not believe it until she took me to a place and after she had left, I was told the same thing. Since the pastor said I can only be free from bondage when she died, I decided to take action," Abiodun confessed.

Confirming the incident, the spokesperson for the Ondo State Police Command, Funmilayo Odunlami-Omisanya, stated that the case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Akure. Odunlami-Omisanya also confirmed the elderly woman’s death due to the severe burns she sustained.

“The case is being investigated by the SCID here in Akure, but the old woman died this morning following the injuries she suffered from the burns,” she said.

Renowned South African coach, Pitso Mosimane, has revealed that he turned down an offer to become the head coach of the Nigerian national football team, the Super Eagles. The decision came after the announcement that South Africa and Nigeria are in the same group for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

In a candid interview, Mosimane stated, "I rejected the offer to become Super Eagles coach because South Africa and Nigeria are in the same group for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. It wouldn't feel right to compete against my home country under these circumstances."

Mosimane, who has a celebrated coaching career, including successful stints with Mamelodi Sundowns and Al Ahly, emphasized the importance of national loyalty and the potential conflict of interest. "I have a deep respect for Nigerian football and their immense talent. However, my loyalty lies with South Africa, and I believe it would be a conflict of interest to coach a team that will directly compete with my country in such a significant tournament," he explained.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers have drawn considerable attention, with Nigeria and South Africa being key contenders in their group. The group stage is expected to be fiercely competitive, with both nations having strong ambitions to qualify for the World Cup.

The Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) has been on the lookout for a new head coach following a series of underwhelming performances by the Super Eagles. Mosimane's expertise and track record made him a top candidate for the position. However, his principled decision has led the NFF to continue their search for a suitable candidate who can lead the Super Eagles to success.

Mosimane's decision has been met with mixed reactions from football fans and analysts. Some praise his integrity and commitment to his home country, while others express disappointment, noting the positive impact he could have had on Nigerian football.

Despite the setback for the Super Eagles, Mosimane remains optimistic about the future of African football. "African teams have the talent and potential to compete at the highest levels. I look forward to seeing both South Africa and Nigeria excel in the qualifiers and beyond," he added.

As the qualifiers approach, the spotlight will remain on the group matches between South Africa and Nigeria, with football enthusiasts eagerly anticipating the outcome. Meanwhile, the NFF's search for a new head coach continues, as they aim to secure a leader who can bring out the best in the Super Eagles and lead them to World Cup glory.

In a bold move to safeguard Nigeria's power infrastructure, Minister of Interior Dr. Olubunmi Tunji Ojo has proposed the creation of specialized units dubbed "Power Rangers" to protect against vandalism and terrorism.

Speaking at the passing out parade of the second batch of 350 Mining Marshals at the NSCDC Complex in Sauka, Abuja, Dr. Tunji Ojo highlighted the urgent need to address the continuous attacks on power infrastructure nationwide. He stressed that no nation can achieve development without robust investment and protection in the power sector.

“I will speak with my brother, the Minister of Power. The rate of vandalism, of economic terrorism going on with our transmission lines, has to be looked into. It is your job to make sure that no critical asset of the government is destroyed, and we are ready, and I believe NSCDC is up to the task,” he asserted.

Dr. Tunji Ojo urged the Commandant General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) to establish a dedicated squad to tackle power vandals. “The next time I come here, I want to see my Power Rangers—people who will protect our distribution lines, our Gencos, and every aspect of the power sector.”

He emphasized that it is unacceptable for a country like Nigeria to invest billions of dollars in power infrastructure only to have it vandalized. “No country grows or develops without a stable power sector, so NSCDC, it is time for you to play your part,” he stated.

To ensure the effective accomplishment of this mandate, Dr. Tunji Ojo proposed the sectorisation of responsibilities within the NSCDC, focusing on protecting critical power assets across the country.

Dr. Farah Dagogo, a former member of the National Assembly, has voiced his concerns over the drastic depreciation of the Nigerian currency, stating, "The value of ₦40,000 in 2015 is equivalent to over ₦500,000 in today’s Nigeria."

Dagogo urged the Federal Government, led by President Bola Tinubu, to implement effective economic policies to alleviate the widespread suffering and hardships faced by the majority of Nigerians. He described the current living standards and economic conditions as "grim," warning that all indicators suggest "further pains for the citizenry."

The former lawmaker's remarks underscore the urgent need for comprehensive economic reforms to address the escalating cost of living and restore stability to the nation's economy.

Police operatives from the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Command have successfully raided several identified kidnappers' hideouts in Chikara, Kogi State, bordering Abuja and the Zuba area of the territory. This significant operation was confirmed by SP Josephine Adeh, the FCT Police Public Relations Officer, in a statement released to DAILY POST on Saturday.

The operation, which took place between June 8 and 13, 2024, is part of the ongoing efforts to combat criminal activities in the FCT. According to SP Adeh, the police's unexpected arrival at the kidnappers' camp led to a fierce gun battle, resulting in the death of one suspect, Abdusallam Abdulkadir.

In addition to the fatality, three suspects were apprehended during the raid. The arrested individuals are Mahammadu Isa of Dantata Abuja, and Likita Idris and Isiyaku Muhammedu, both from Kogi State.

This operation underscores the police's commitment to eradicating criminal elements and ensuring the safety and security of residents in the FCT and its neighboring areas.

The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) has reported a rise in Nigeria’s inflation rate to 33.95% in May 2024, up from 33.69% in the previous month. This development was highlighted in the NBS consumer price index (CPI) report released on Saturday.

The report revealed that the food inflation rate for May 2024 reached 40.66% year-on-year, a significant increase of 15.84 percentage points compared to the 24.82% recorded in May 2023.

"Analyzing the movement, the May 2024 headline inflation rate exhibited an increase of 0.26 percentage points when compared to the April 2024 headline inflation rate," the report noted. "On a year-on-year basis, the headline inflation rate was 11.54 percentage points higher than the 22.41% recorded in May 2023."

Month-on-month analysis showed that the headline inflation rate for May 2024 was 2.14%, slightly lower than the 2.29% reported in April 2024. This indicates that the rate of increase in the average price level in May was less than that of April.

Further analysis identified the top five drivers of headline inflation, with food and non-alcoholic beverages leading at 17.59%. Housing, water, electricity, gas, and other fuels followed closely at 5.68%. Other significant contributors included clothing and footwear at 2.60%, transport at 2.21%, and furnishings, household equipment, and maintenance at 1.71%.

The rising inflation rates underscore the ongoing economic challenges facing Nigeria, impacting the cost of living and the overall economic stability.