Author: The Whistler Newspaper

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Kano Strategic Command has uncovered and begun dismantling a network of caves and underground hideouts used for illicit drug activities in the Rimin Kebe area of Kano.

The operation, carried out under a special crackdown tagged “Operation Sharar Mafaka,” followed intelligence gathering and sustained surveillance by NDLEA operatives.

According to the command, officers who stormed the area on May 4 confirmed the existence of multiple caves constructed and adapted by drug dealers as living quarters and distribution points.

Some of the hideouts were found furnished with household items such as mats, pillows, food flasks, plates, and cutlery, indicating that they were being used for extended stays and regular drug-related activities. Authorities also discovered additional tunnels believed to be under construction, possibly designed to link different hideouts underground.

The Kano Strategic Command Commander, Dahiru Yahaya Lawal, said several of the caves and tunnels have already been dislodged, with plans underway to demolish and secure the remaining structures.

“We will continue to pursue these elements wherever they hide. Our commitment is unwavering until Kano is rid of illicit drug use and trafficking,” he said.

The operation aligns with directives from the NDLEA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Mohamed Buba Marwa, to intensify the crackdown on drug networks across the country.

The agency also called on residents to support its efforts by reporting suspicious activities and locations to NDLEA offices, stressing that community cooperation is key to combating substance abuse and illegal drug trade in the state.

NDLEA Uncovers Underground Drug Hideouts In Kano is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

Real Madrid defender, Antonio Rudiger, slapped younger teammate Alvaro Carreras during a dressing room row, the Daily Mail reports.

It is claimed that both players had to be pulled apart during the incident at the training ground.

Rudiger “lost his mind” following their 1-1 draw with Real Betis two weeks ago.

In a statement, Carreras confirmed the clash and insisted the matter has been resolved.

The 23-year-old said: “Regarding the incident with a teammate, it was an isolated matter without importance that has already been resolved. My relationship with the entire team is very good.”

Rudiger is believed to have apologised to Carreras and taken the players out for dinner with their families last Friday.

LaLiga: Rudiger ‘slaps’ Real Madrid teammate during clash in training

The Nigeria Police Force, through the INTERPOL National Central Bureau, NCB, Abuja, has arrested and repatriated a Chinese fugitive, Xu Qing, back to China.

Qing is to face charges related to large-scale illegal absorption of public deposits through a Ponzi scheme.

A statement signed by DCP Anthony Okon Placid, Force Public Relations Officer
Force Headquarters, said the repatriation followed a formal request from Chinese authorities, who declared the suspect wanted in Beijing for his alleged involvement in a financial fraud scheme estimated at over $245 million.

The statement said that investigations revealed that the suspect fled China to Nigeria on 5th November 2024 in an attempt to evade arrest, following which a warrant was issued against him on 12th November 2025 by the Shinan Sub-Bureau of Qingdao Public Security.

Placid said that acting on intelligence and sustained surveillance operations, operatives of INTERPOL NCB Abuja successfully tracked and arrested the fugitive at a factory located in Olowotedo, Siun Village, Obafemi Owode Local Government Area of Ogun State on 24th April 2026 after which the suspect was repatriated to the People’s Republic of China on 28th April 2026 through bilateral police cooperation arrangements to face prosecution for the offences.

He said that the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to strengthening international cooperation in the fight against transnational organised crime.

The IGP further advised Nigerian employers and business entities to conduct due diligence, including background checks through the police, before engaging foreign nationals in business or employment relationships.

The Nigeria Police Force said it remains resolute in its commitment to combating transnational crime and ensuring that Nigeria does not serve as a safe haven for fugitives.

$245m Ponzi scheme: Nigeria Police arrests, repatriates suspect to China

Activists and other protesters on Wednesday stormed MTN Nigeria’s head office in Abuja over high cost of service.

The protesters led by popular Nigerian activist, Omoyele Sowore, were heard shouting “MTN Ole!”

At the telecom company’s premises, the protesters were heard demanding urgent action over what they described as exploitative pricing.

“We demand that MTN immediately stop all the exorbitant charges, we need quality service in the country.

“Last week, someone complained that he paid a huge amount of money but he was not given the data. That’s the story of many Nigerians,” one of the protesters said.

This is coming as the leadership of the National Association of Nigerian Students, NANS, on Wednesday announced plans to picket South African businesses, MTN and MultiChoice, over the xenophobic attacks going on in the country.

WATCH VIDEO

BREAKING: Protesters storm MTN office in Abuja [VIDEO]

Amnesty International Nigeria has welcomed a Federal High Court order temporarily restraining the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) from sanctioning broadcasters over alleged breaches of provisions in the Nigeria Broadcasting Code, describing the ruling as a win for press freedom ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The interim injunction, granted on Monday by Justice D.E. Osiagor of the Federal High Court in Lagos, prevents the NBC from enforcing sections of the broadcasting code that critics say are vague and open to abuse.

The suit was filed by the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) and the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE).

In its reaction, Amnesty International Nigeria described the NBC’s earlier directive as an attempt to stifle media freedom, warning that it could encourage self-censorship among journalists and broadcasters, particularly as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 elections.

The rights organisation reiterated its position that regulatory measures must not be used to silence dissenting voices or restrict critical reporting, insisting that the decision by the court provides temporary protection for media practitioners.

The NBC had issued the contested directive in April 2026, warning broadcasters against allowing presenters express personal opinions as facts, failing to maintain neutrality, or hosting guests in a manner deemed inflammatory. Media stakeholders had raised concerns that the provisions could be selectively enforced against critical stations.

With the court’s ruling, enforcement of the disputed sections of the broadcasting code has been suspended pending determination of the substantive suit, with the matter adjourned to June 1, 2026.

Amnesty International urged authorities to ensure full respect for constitutional guarantees on freedom of expression and called for safeguards to prevent regulatory bodies from being used to limit press independence.

The organisation further warned that restrictions on media freedom during the pre-election period could undermine democratic accountability and public access to information.

Amnesty Welcomes Court Order Limiting NBC Media Sanctions is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has directed the immediate establishment of a temporary site for the National Open University of Nigeria, NOUN, in Aba.

Otti also approved that a permanent study centre should be built in Aba for NOUN operations.

The governor gave the directive while receiving the Vice-Chancellor of NOUN, Professor Oji Uduma.

He directed the Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Professor Uche Eme-Uche, and the Managing Director of the Greater Aba Development Authority, Uche Ukeje, to lead the charge.

According to the governor, his decision was in response the NOUN management’s request for partnership to establish a study centre in Aba.

Otti noted that open and distance learning had evolved significantly with the aid of technology which enhance knowledge sharing.

The governor also directed the Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Professor Uche Eme-Uche, to liaise with the management of the Umuahia study centre of NOUN to identify areas where the state government could assist in improving facilities.

He further thanked the open university management for establishing a study centre in Ohafia, Abia North district of the state.

Earlier, the Vice Chancellor of NOUN, Professor Uduma Oji Uduma, said the institution was committed to expanding access to education through open and distance learning, as well as promoting inclusiveness.

He disclosed that there are 120 NOUN study centres in the country with the South-East region only having eight centres.

Otti orders site for NOUN in Aba, as VC laments few study centres in South-East

Traders at Isigate Market in Umuahia, Abia State have expressed mixed feelings over the Abia State Government’s plan to relocate them to a new site.

Many traders acknowledge the potential benefits of a modern market, however, others worry about the immediate risks to their businesses and customer base.

Several traders who spoke to THE WHISTLER said the relocation, though well-intentioned, could disrupt their livelihoods in the short term.

One trader, who requested anonymity, described the move as a double-edged sword.

“It’s not that I’m not grateful. The new market is a good idea, but it will affect me both positively and negatively,” he said.

He recalled a previous relocation to Urban Market that left his business struggling.

“When we were moved to Urban, my business didn’t progress at all. As a father, I struggled to provide for my family. We made more losses than profits,” he recounted.

Despite his reservations, the trader expressed strong support for Governor Alex Otti’s administration.

“Even if I’m dead by 2027, my bones will rise to vote for Governor Alex Otti,” he added.

Another trader struck a more optimistic note, believing the challenges would be temporary.

“It might not be easy at first, but I believe with time, it will turn out well for us,” she said.

A third trader, however, highlighted the uncertainty that continues to worry many business owners.

“The only issue I have is losing customers. We were once forced to move, and it didn’t benefit us at all. Even when you invest heavily — like ₦20 million — nothing comes out of it,” he said.

He appealed to the government to make the new market site permanent and well-organised, with clearly demarcated spaces to make it easy for customers to locate traders.

When THE WHISTLER contacted Mr Ferdinand Ekeoma, the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Abia State Governor, he disclosed that the relocation of traders currently operating at Isi Gate will commence by next week.

According to him, the affected traders will first be temporarily moved to Okigwe Park before being permanently relocated to the main market at Afara, which is still under construction.

Mr Ekeoma addressed concerns and anxiety from the traders, clarifying that Isi Gate is not recognised as a formal market.

“As far as we are concerned, Isi Gate is not a market,” he stated.

He explained that operators in the area fall into two categories: traders and transporters.

“The traders will move to the new market, while the transporters will be relocated to the designated bus terminal,” Mr Ekeoma clarified.

The spokesperson revealed that leaders of the traders had been taken on an inspection tour of the new site at Afara.

“They have seen for themselves how conducive the environment is. There is electricity, water supply, and toilet facilities,” he added.

Traders are expected to begin the first phase of the move in the coming days.

Umuahia Market Traders Express Mixed Reactions To Planned Relocation is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

Eligible voters yet to obtain their permanent voters cards in Enugu, Wednesday, expressed joy to the Independent Electoral Commission, INEC, for resuming the exercise.

Some of them that spoke with THE WHISTLER said they had hitherto lost interest in the electoral process following what they called “the disappointing outcome of the 2023 general elections”.

“My hope seems to be returning through the Nigeria Democratic Party, and the joining of the party by Mr Peter Obi and Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso,” reveals Ezekiel Onoyima, an ICT expert. “Although I have my doubts on the reliability of the electronic transmission of results, I’m becoming optimistic that the power lies in the hands of the masses. Last general elections might have been hijacked because voters were unaware of other plans of our leaders, as well as the fact that manual voting was permissible. Today, it has become clear that it is vote and defend your votes. I will register as soon as this latest exercise begins. I didn’t vote in 2023 because of age.”

For Timothy Ekwueme, a businessman, “I had forgotten everything about voting again, but somehow, NDC is likely becoming the last hope of the common man. If we shun to vote, riggers will enjoy a field day. I will get my voters card, and will surely exercise my franchise, and defend it until it counts. My dream of a new Nigeria is anchored in Peter Obi. I am happy he was not rubbished in the legal tussles of the African Democratic Party.”

Also speaking, a student, Doris Ozoene, said she was lucky to have attained the age. “I became 18 last month. I will get my voters card during the registration window. I want to vote for the first time in my life. I believe votes will count this time around. I will also tell my friends who are eligible to obtain theirs. It is a civic obligation to vote during elections.”

INEC, Tuesday, announced the resumption of nationwide continuous voter registration for the third and final lap with effect from May 11, 2026 to end on July 10, 2026 ahead of the 2027 general elections. The electoral body had suspended the second phase on April 17, 2026 to allow the commission to harmonise the register after its publication for claims and objections by registrants. The registration is for eligible people who are 18 and above.

Meanwhile, NDC, Enugu State Chapter, has boasted that it would take over the state following its claims that supporters of the Obidient Movement and followers of former Kano State governor, Rabiu Kwankwaso, have joined the party in the state.

The state NDC leadership, in a statement, said the development would strengthen its political base ahead of future elections in the state. The statement was signed by the state Secretary of the party, Dr Sebastine Okafor, and the Publicity Secretary, Mr Emmanuel Ugwueze.

The party listed the new entrants to include Senator Gil Nnaji, a retired permanent secretary, Chief Chinyeaka Ohaa; Princess Adaogbu, and Chief John Nwokeabia, former deputy governorship candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 general elections.

Quoting the statement, “The increasing influx of credible individuals and grass-roots supporters into our party is a clear indication that Ndi Enugu are ready for a new direction. We are delighted to receive notable sons and daughters from the Obidient Movement into our great party in the state. We are proud to be part of this unfolding chapter in the political history of our state.”

2027: NDC Faithful Jostle For PVC Registration In Enugu is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

Inter Milan legend, Wesley Sneijder, has hailed Arsenal for putting in an impressive performance against Atletico Madrid to qualify for the UEFA Champions League final.

Bukayo Saka’s goal gave Arsenal a 1-0 victory against Atletico Madrid in the Champions League semi-final second leg tie on Tuesday.

Mikel Arteta’s side will now face Paris Saint-Germain or Bayern Munich in the Champions League final later this month.

Reacting, Sneijder was pleased with the Premier League leaders for their display against Diego Simeone’s side.

He told Ziggo Sport, “With this team, it is so impressive to reach the final.

“Leaving all the other world-class teams behind you. I think that is very impressive.”

UCL: Wesley Sneijder reacts to Arsenal reaching final after win over Atletico Madrid

The Economic and Financial crimes Commission, EFCC, on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, arraigned a Communication Company, Metro Digital Limited before Justice A.T Mohammed of the Federal High Court, Port Harcourt, Rivers State on an amended four-count charge bordering on cybercrime and alleged unlawful interception and rebroadcast of Multichoice Nigeria Limited content.

Prosecution counsel, Steve E. Odiase informed the court that the matter was slated for arraignment,  

Defence counsel, S.A. Somairi, SAN, tried to stop the arraignment by informing the court of a preliminary objection, however, the judge refused and ordered the plea to be taken in line with Section 478 of ACJA 2015, which states that ” where a corporation is called upon to plead to any charge or information framed under the provisions of this Act or charge or information added to or altered under the provisions of this Act, it may enter in writing by its representative a plea of guilty or not guilty”

Count one of the charges read; “That you Metro Digital Limited(RC NO.501134), Ifeanyi John Nwafor being the Managing Director of Metro Digital Limited (RC NO. 501134) (at large) and Ikenna Kanu, being a member of staff of Metro Digital Limited (RC NO. 501134) (at large), between 2015 and 2019, at Port Harcourt, Rivers State within the jurisdiction of this honourable court did conspire among yourselves to commit felony to wit: unlawful interceptions and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 27 (1) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) act, 2015 and punishable under Section … (1) of the same Act.

Another count reads; “That you Metro Digital Limited(RC NO.501134), Ifeanyi John Nwafor being the Managing Director of Metro Digital Limited (RC NO. 501134) (at large) and Ikenna Kanu, being a member of staff of Metro Digital Limited (RC NO. 501134) (at large), on or about 16th day of August, 2019, at Port Harcourt, Rivers State within the jurisdiction of this honourable court did intentionally and without authorization, intercept by technical means and rebroadcast tiger boxes, Dongles, etc., over which Multichoice Nigeria Limited have exclusive rights in Sub-saharan Africa and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 12 (1) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) act, 2015 and punishable under Section .12 (1) of the same Act.

The charges say the company and some of its staff worked together between 2015 and 2019 to illegally access and rebroadcast multichoice content without permission.

Metro Digital Limited, through its representative, pleaded “not guilty” to all the four- count charges.

In view of the plea of “not guilty”, Odiase prayed the court for a trial date.

Justice Mohammed adjourned the matter to June 29 & 30, 2026 for continuation of trial.

Investigations of the case started after Multichoice reported the matter to the EFCC in 2019, claiming that illegal broadcast of its content caused it major financial losses.