Author: The Whistler Newspaper

Authorities in the United Arab Emirates have arrested members of a unit accused of having links to Iran, according to state media reports.

The UAE-run Emirates News Agency (WAM) reported on Monday that the arrested individuals were alleged to hold extremist views and operate as part of a “terrorist” unit. They were accused of holding secret meetings, threatening internal security, planning to share sensitive location information, and attempting to recruit individuals into suspicious foreign groups.

The latest arrests come amid heightened regional tensions between Gulf states and Iran.

The development follows a similar security operation in March 2026, when UAE authorities said they dismantled an alleged Iran- and Hezbollah-linked network and arrested members accused of involvement in activities deemed a threat to national security.

Dubai has also previously taken security-related measures during periods of tension with Iran, including the closure of Iranian-linked institutions such as the Iranian Hospital and the Iranian Club, as well as heightened monitoring of suspected foreign-linked activities within its borders.

No further details on the number of arrests or the identities of those detained in the latest case were immediately released.

Authorities say investigations are ongoing.

UAE Arrests Members Of Alleged Iran-Linked Security Unit is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

The Islamic Movement in Nigeria, popularly known as Shi’ites, has called on Muslims and Christians across the world to unite in confronting injustice and oppression, saying the global solidarity is necessary to promote justice and improve living conditions.

The appeal was made on Sunday by Malama Zeenatuddeen Ibraheem Zakzaky, wife of the leader of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria, Sheikh Ibraheem Zakzaky, during the closing ceremony of the 5th International Conference on Islamic Thought themed, “The State of Affairs and the Way Out.”

DAILY POST reports that the event was organised by the Sisters Forum and Academic Forum under the leadership of Sheikh Zakzaky and held in Bauchi.

The three-day conference attracted participants from Nigeria, Niger, Chad, and other African countries.

Zeenatuddeen Zakzaky urged Muslims to live strictly according to the teachings of the Qur’an and the traditions of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).

“Muslims must live their lives according to how Allah enjoined us in the Qur’an and the way the Prophet has brought it to us,” she said.

She explained that the purpose of the conference was to remind believers of their responsibilities as Muslims.

“We are not saying that everybody should become Muslim, but we also cannot afford to live against the teachings of the Qur’an,” she added.

Speaking on ongoing global tensions, including conflicts involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, she described the situation as a struggle between oppression and resistance.

“I don’t want people to ask me about this war, but as all can see, it is now clear. I am siding with the axis of resistance against aggression. We know who the aggressors are,” she said.

She further stated that peace and development cannot exist in a world that ignores injustice.

“It is mandatory to act against injustice. All the Prophets of God came to fight oppression and establish justice,” she said.

According to her, the conference also aimed to raise awareness of the Islamic Movement’s objectives in Nigeria and strengthen opposition to what she described as global oppression, particularly against Palestinians.

She added that the United States and Israel were pursuing expansionist and self-interest policies, urging Nigerians to be cautious of foreign influence and protect national sovereignty.

“The US is only after the wealth and resources of other countries. Nigerians must be careful and protect their sovereignty,” she warned.

Also addressing the gathering, a lecturer from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Dr Fatima said the conference was designed to promote justice and encourage resistance to oppression globally.

She called for unity among Muslims and Christians, adding that silence in the face of injustice worsens global suffering.

Muslims, Christians must confront injustice worldwide – Zakzaky

The Federal High Court in Abuja has admitted nine exhibits against a former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, SAN, alongside his wife, Hajia Bashir Asabe and his son, Abubakar Abdulaziz Malami.

Justice Joyce Abdulmalik on Monday admitted the documents at the resumed trial of the former Chief Law Officer of the Federation on fraud related matters.

The exhibits were presented before the court by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, in its ongoing trial of the former Minister and some family members.

The EFCC is prosecuting the defendants on an amended 16-count charge bordering on conspiracy, procuring, disguising, concealing and laundering proceeds of unlawful activities to the tune of N8,713,923,759.49 contrary to the provisions of the Money Laundering Prevention and Prohibition Act, 2022.

The exhibits, which are documentary in nature, were tendered through the fourth prosecution witness, Mashelia Arhyel Bata, a compliance officer with Zenith Bank Plc.

Led in evidence by prosecution counsel, Jibrin Okutepa, SAN, the witness told the court that, in the course of his official duties, he received correspondence from the EFCC requesting documents relating to several accounts linked to the defendants and associated entities.

“I work as a compliance officer with Zenith Bank, Maitama branch. My duty includes receiving correspondence from law enforcement agencies and responding accordingly,” he said.

Bata further disclosed that the bank complied with EFCC’s requests by providing both soft and hard copies of documents relating to accounts belonging to the defendants and companies such as Rayhaan Hotels Limited, Rayhaan Bustan Agro Allied Limited, Nashab Limited, Golden Age Global Ventures, and Rahamaniyya Properties Limited.

“My lord, the documents are nine,” he stated, confirming his ability to identify them when presented in court.

Upon application by Okutepa, the court admitted the documents, dated between July 19, 2024 and March 12, 2026, as Exhibits D1 to D9, despite an initial objection by defence counsel, Joseph Daudu, SAN, who noted that “the dates are almost all in March.”

Continuing his testimony under further examination by prosecution counsel, Ekele Iheanacho, SAN, the witness provided details of transactions contained in the exhibits.

He identified Exhibit D1 as containing account opening documents and statements for accounts belonging to Abubakar Malami and A.A. Malami & Co, including a naira account and a dollar account.

According to him, the statement of account for one of the accounts covered the period from January 1, 2012 to December 31, 2023.

The witness confirmed that the accounts were active between 2015 and 2023, noting that “there were transfers within that period.”

He further revealed that total credits into one of the accounts stood at N383,637,21.55 between January 1, 2016 and December 31, 2023, while total credits from January 1, 2012 to December 31, 2015 amounted to N560,506,465.12.

On debits, he stated that N384,322,120.85 was recorded between 2016 and 2023, while N571,891,174.08 was debited between 2012 and 2015.

Giving further breakdown of transactions, the witness told the court that on November 11, 2020, the account received N194,791,608.00 from New Horizons Limited, and on June 24, 2022, it received N622,500,000.00 from Rayhaan Bustan Agro Allied Limited.

He added that on July 1 and July 7, 2022, the account received N250 million each from Rayhaan Hotels Limited, while on December 22, 2022, there was an inflow of N500 million linked to Rayhaan Bustan Agro Allied Limited.

Continuing in that format, the witness identified so many transactions running into billions.

Following the testimony, the defence counsel, Joseph Daudu, SAN sought an adjournment to enable him study the exhibits and prepare for cross-examination.

“My lord, we need time to go through the nine exhibits tendered,” Daudu said.

Justice Abdulmalik subsequently fixed May 13, 2026, for continuation of trial.

Court admits nine exhibits against Malami, family in money laundering charges

The Osun Sector Command of the Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC, has announced the official resumption of Corps Commander Sunday Adebayo has officially assumed duty as the new Sector Commander in the state.

The announcement was made in a statement issued by Agnes Ogungbemi, the Sector Public Education Officer, confirming that Adebayo took over leadership on Tuesday, April 13,n2026.

According to the statement, “Adebayo is an experienced officer with extensive background in road safety administration, traffic management, and public service within the Corps.”

It noted that he had previously served in several operational and administrative roles, where he demonstrated leadership, discipline, and effective coordination in executing the Corps’ mandate.

The statement indicated that his appointment followed recognition of his competence and outstanding service record within the organisation.

“As Sector Commander, Adebayo is expected to oversee road safety operations, enforcement of traffic regulations, public enlightenment campaigns, and administrative coordination across Osun State.”

Meanwhile, Adebayo upon assumption of duty expressed appreciation to the Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed, for the confidence placed in him.

“I am grateful to the Corps Marshal for this opportunity to serve. I remain committed to upholding the core values of the Corps through discipline, professionalism and teamwork,” he said.

He emphasised the importance of sustained public education, strict enforcement of traffic laws, and stronger collaboration with stakeholders in the transport sector.

He assured motorists and other road users of the Command’s continued dedication to safer roads and urged full compliance with traffic regulations to enhance safety across the state.

Adebayo assumes office as Osun FRSC Sector Commander

Habeeb Hamzat, popularly known as Peller, has sparked widespread reactions online after stating that his N100m in savings is strictly off-limits, even in the face of urgent family emergencies.

The Nigerian content creator remarked in a viral video featuring skit maker Sir Balo, on Monday, where he explained his disciplined approach to personal finance. The conversations revolved around money management, savings culture, and family responsibility.

In the video, Peller revealed that he operates a strict financial rule, insisting he never allows his account balance to fall below N100m under any circumstance.

“I don’t ever allow myself to be broke below N100 million. Even if anybody wants to die in the family, I won’t touch it,” he said, adding that he prefers to seek alternative income streams, such as paid promotions, whenever he faces urgent financial needs.

His comments have triggered mixed reactions across social media platforms, with supporters praising his financial discipline and long-term thinking, particularly in Nigeria’s challenging economic climate.

Others, however, have criticised the stance as overly rigid, arguing that it overlooks the cultural expectations of family support, especially during emergencies where immediate financial assistance may be critical.

In Nigeria, extended family responsibilities often play a central role in financial decision-making, with many individuals expected to contribute to medical expenses, education, and other urgent needs beyond their immediate households.

Peller’s position has therefore sparked a broader debate about the balance between maintaining financial boundaries and fulfilling social obligations in a system where informal family support often substitutes for institutional safety nets.

Some social media users reacted humorously, with one commenter joking about needing “financial approval” before responding to emergencies, while others questioned the practicality of such a strict rule.

@didiezenwa said “But if the person finally kpai for your family, you’ll donate money for his burial after refusing to help them abi? Congratulations”

Another reaction from @thatibm lol, look at who y’all take advice from. Life never humbles you sha continue spilling rubbish. Even if this is your mentality, is it okay to say this out in public?

@chyddo Imagine being able to make this statement in your early 20s while graduates can barely afford food. Pick your struggle wisely!!!

Peller Sparks Debate After Declaring N100m Savings Untouchable is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

Stanley Boateng has been appointed assistant coach of Nigeria’s senior women’s national basketball team, D’Tigress, DAILY POST reports.

Boateng will join D’Tigress coaching crew led by Rena Wakama.

The African champions are already in the United States of America for a training tour ahead of the 2026 FIBA Women’s World Cup.

D’Tigress will take on WNBA teams, Los Angeles Sparks, Minnesota Lynx, and Indiana Fever in friendlies during the training tour.

The draw for the FIBA Women’s World Cup will hold in Berlin, Germany on Tuesday.

Boateng appointed D’Tigress assistant coach

The Federal Road Safety Corps, FRSC, has appointed Corps Commander Francis Ajatta as the new Sector Commander for Rivers State.

Ajatta takes charge of the state command following the recent redeployment of senior officers within the corps.

He officially assumed duty after succeeding Corps Commander Inyang Umoh, who recently retired from service.

Prior to his posting to Rivers State, Ajatta served as the Sector Commander of the Akwa Ibom Sector Command.

In a statement on Monday, signed by Doris Ebor, Chief Route Commander and Sector Public Education Officer of the Rivers State Command, Ajatta was described as “a seasoned Officer with track record of promoting the cause of Road Safety in Nigeria.”

The statement further noted that he has held several positions in different states across the country.

Speaking during his inaugural address, Ajatta outlined his priorities for the command, stating that his administration will focus on FRSC visibility, Extensive public enlightenment campaign, Training of staff and Drivers, Prompt response to rescue and clearance of obstruction and stakeholders collaboration amongst others.

FRSC appoints Ajatta as new Rivers Sector Commander

The African Democratic Congress has denied reports suggesting it is in talks with another political party, specifically the Peoples Redemption Party, ahead of an expected court judgment concerning its leadership dispute.

In a statement addressing the claim, the party spokesman, Bolaji Abdullahi, disclosed this in a statement on Monday.

This he also shared on X, and there he said: “Our attention has been drawn to a story in circulation that the African Democratic Congress (ADC) is in talks with another political party, specifically the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), in anticipation of its court judgment.”

It described the report as false, stating: “We would like to state categorically that this is not true.”

The ADC leadership further clarified its position on coalition discussions.

It said: “The coalition leadership is not having any such conversation with any political party at the moment.”

Reaffirming its current focus, the party stated: “We are fully committed to ensuring that the illegal action taken against our leadership by INEC and other agents of the ruling party is upturned.

“We believe that this is the only path to safeguarding the rule of law and ensuring that multiparty democracy survives in Nigeria.

While acknowledging openness to broader political collaboration, the statement added: “While we are open to expanding the coalition to bring all opposition elements in the country together to rescue our country, we remain clear about the responsibility that this moment has imposed on us. We will not abdicate that responsibility.”

It also dismissed claims of a possible defection or abandonment of the party.

Abdullah stated: “Therefore, any suggestion that we are considering abandoning the ADC is preemptive and speculative, and should be ignored.”

On the ongoing legal and political situation, the party said: “Notwithstanding the flagrant bastardisation of democratic institutions, the ADC leadership remains confident that the judicial institutions will, at this defining moment, resist the pressure to be complicit in undermining Nigeria’s democracy.”

ADC Denies Talks With PRP Ahead Of Court Judgment is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

Ace music executive, Michael Collins Ajereh, popularly known as Don Jazzy, has revealed his major challenge with dealing with GenZ artists under his record label.

Speaking in an episode of Who’s In The House podcast, the Mavin Records boss lamented that his major challenge with dealing with GenZ artists is their reluctance to promote their music passionately on their social media pages.

He explained that a lot of GenZ artists are adamant about flooding their pages with their musical contents because they are more concerned about the aesthetics of their social media pages.

Don Jazzy disclosed that the issue sometimes causes disagreement between him and his artists, especially the established ones.

“I fight with my artists all the time because of their reluctance to post their muscat contents on their social media pages. I’m also fighting with my niece, who is into entertainment, for the same issue.

“I don’t know who told GenZ that it is not okay to post your work excessive on social media. They want to keep a clean page and don’t want to post or promote themselves. Especially Ayra Starr, who will tell me it’s imposter syndrome,” he lamented.

The music executive urged artists to always showcase their works online at any given opportunity.

Don Jazzy reveals his problem with Ayra Starr, other GenZ artists

The Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday dismissed a suit filed by Air Peace Limited seeking to restrain the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) from issuing summons over multiple passenger complaints.

Delivering judgment, Justice James Omotosho held that the suit lacked merit, criticising the airline for attempting to use the court to “shield” itself from investigation by a lawful authority.

The dispute centred on the interpretation of Section 148 of the FCCPC Act, which outlines the Commission’s powers in enforcing consumer rights.

Citing Section 148(3) of the Act, the judge explained that upon receiving or initiating a complaint, the FCCPC may issue a notice of non-referral where a complaint is deemed frivolous, refer the matter to a sector regulator, or direct an inspector to investigate.

Justice Omotosho noted that a careful reading of the law shows the Commission “can, on its own,” initiate investigations or refer complaints to appropriate authorities.

He ruled that the FCCPC retains its statutory powers and is “at liberty to take any of the options” provided under the Act, adding that the airline’s suit “has no legal basis.”

On the issue of fair hearing raised by Air Peace, which argued that it was denied due process because the identities of complainants were not disclosed, the court held that the claim was premature.

“The position (on fair hearing) of the plaintiff (Air Peace) is premature,” the judge said, noting that the Commission had issued several summons which the airline failed to honour, insisting instead on disclosure of complainants.

He ordered the airline to comply with the summons and appear before the FCCPC, reiterating that the case lacked merit and was accordingly dismissed.

Air Peace had approached the court in 2025, alleging that the FCCPC unlawfully initiated an investigation into consumer complaints without first referring the matter to a sector regulator or inspector, as it interpreted under Section 148.

The airline also argued that the Commission must disclose the identities of complainants before proceeding with any inquiry, particularly regarding allegations of exploitative ticket pricing, cancelled flights, and failure to refund passengers.

In response, the FCCPC maintained that it acted within its statutory mandate and did not violate the airline’s rights, urging the court to dismiss the suit.

In an earlier summons dated June 13, 2025, the Commission directed Air Peace to appear at its Abuja headquarters, citing Sections 32 and 33 of the FCCPC Act and warning that failure to comply could attract sanctions, including fines or imprisonment.

The Commission said the summons followed numerous complaints from passengers across the country over non-refunded ticket fares, including instances where flights were cancelled.

Meanwhile, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, had previously criticized the FCCPC’s public statements questioning the airline’s pricing practices.

Under the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Act (FCCPA) 2018, consumers are entitled to timely and fair refunds when a service provider fails to deliver a prepaid service.

The law provides that where a service, such as a flight, is not delivered as agreed, consumers have the right to request a refund proportionate to the failure.

Court Dismisses Air Peace Suit Against FCCPC Over Passenger Complaints is first published on The Whistler Newspaper