Author: Daily Post Nigeria

The Federal Capital Territory High Court in Abuja has adjourned the ongoing trial of former Taraba State Governor, Darius Dickson Ishaku, to June 15, 2026, following the withdrawal of counsel representing the second defendant.

Presiding Judge S. C. Oriji granted the adjournment after counsel to the second defendant, Bello Yero, announced his immediate withdrawal from the case during proceedings on Thursday.

“I would like to bring to your notice my withdrawal of service, urging my Lord to grant it,” said the defence lawyer, Samuel Fagade, adding that his client was aware and had begun considering a replacement.

Ishaku and Yero, a former permanent secretary in the state’s Bureau for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, are being prosecuted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on a 15-count charge bordering on alleged criminal breach of trust, conspiracy, and diversion of public funds amounting to N27 billion.

The trial was set to continue with the prosecution’s third witness, Taiwo Johns, but proceedings were halted following the development.

Addressing the court, Yero requested additional time to secure new legal representation.

“I want to plead with His Lordship to grant me an adjournment of four to six weeks to enable me to get legal representation. As it is now, I don’t have any lawyer,” he said.

Prosecution counsel, Rotimi Jacobs, SAN, did not oppose the adjournment but questioned the timing of the withdrawal. He noted that the outgoing counsel had been present at the previous sitting when the witness began testifying and failed to provide the legally required notice.

“When we called our PW3, this counsel was there. He should have at least given the court three days’ notice,” Jacobs argued.

He further alleged that the second defendant may not have been entirely forthcoming, claiming that a new lawyer had accompanied him to court but withdrew his appearance from the cause list.

“The second defendant came with a lawyer. They came together to this court, and the lawyer is in court hearing me,” Jacobs said, urging the court to deny a lengthy adjournment.

However, the lawyer in question later addressed the court, confirming preliminary discussions with Yero but stating that no formal agreement had been reached.

Justice Oriji subsequently approved the withdrawal of counsel and adjourned the matter to June 15, with additional dates fixed for July 2, 7, 13, 14, and 15, 2026, for the continuation of the trial.

N27bn fraud trial: Court adjourns Ishaku, Yero’s case after defence counsel withdraws

Werder Bremen’s head coach, Daniel Thioune, has indicated that Victor Boniface may not be included in the matchday squad for their forthcoming Bundesliga match against FC Augsburg.

Boniface, who joined the team on loan during the summer transfer window, has faced an inconsistent season plagued by injuries, with his most recent issue being a knee injury from which he has just recovered.

The Nigerian international rejoined the squad last week but did not participate in Bremen’s 1-1 draw with VfB Stuttgart.

Although his return signifies notable progress in his recovery, Thioune has indicated that the forward still faces challenges in securing a spot in the squad for the match against Augsburg.

In his remarks prior to the match against Augsburg, Thioune noted that the competition for positions has increased with the return of key players, such as Marco Friedl and Marco Grüll.

“It was crucial for Victor to return. He performed well last week,” Thioune stated via Bild.

“With the return of Marco Friedl and Marco Grüll, I will have to make decisions that may exclude one or two players.”

The Bremen manager also discussed whether Boniface’s physical playing style might be particularly advantageous against Augsburg, a team recognized for their tough approach.

While acknowledging the strengths of the Nigerian forward, Thioune stressed that he has several options with comparable qualities.

“I also have other physically robust strikers in the squad. For instance, we have greatly appreciated the contributions of Salim Musah. Jovan Milosevic possesses a similar profile,” he remarked.

Thioune further stated that the final decisions will be based on training performances, emphasizing that no player is assured a position.

“Therefore, I will await the final training session. Everyone must earn their place in the squad and their time on the field,” he concluded.

As competition in the attacking line intensifies, Boniface will be eager to make a strong impression in training as Bremen strives to maintain their Bundesliga status.

Bundesliga: ‘I’ve made my decision’ – Werder Bremen boss on Victor Boniface

Petrol prices have climbed sharply across Nigeria, with several filling stations now dispensing fuel between N1,364 and N1,444 per liter, reflecting the growing impact of rising global crude oil prices on the domestic market.

Findings by DAILY POST on Thursday evening showed that major marketers, including the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), MRS, BOVAS, AP (Ardova), and Mobil, adjusted their pump prices to between N1,364 and N1,370 per liter.

Other outlets such as AA Rano, Emedab, Empire Energy, and Ranoil are selling petrol at higher rates, ranging from N1,370 to N1,440 per liter.

This marks a steep increase from around N900 per liter recorded in February 2026.

The latest adjustment comes barely 24 hours after Dangote Refinery and depot owners raised their gantry and ex-depot prices to N1,275 and N1,320 per liter, respectively, attributing the hike to a surge in global crude oil prices.

Checks on Friday morning indicated that Brent and West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude benchmarks climbed to $111 and $105 per barrel, driven by sustained tensions involving Iran, the United States, and Israel in the Middle East.

The situation has been further compounded by the recent exit of the United Arab Emirates from the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), adding to volatility in the global oil market.

Commenting on the development, the spokesperson of the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria, Chinedu Ukadike, said the rise in global oil prices is significantly affecting domestic fuel costs.

“Though Dangote Refinery has helped cushion the impact, global crude oil price volatility is impacting the domestic market,” he said.

The continued rise in gasoline prices has intensified calls for urgent government intervention, as Nigerians grapple with worsening economic conditions.

The development is coming at a critical time, as workers mark the May Day celebration, with the minimum wage at N70,000 and the cost of living continuing to rise alongside fuel prices nearing N1,500 per liter.

Workers’ Day: Nigerians buy petrol at N1440 per liter as NNPCL, others increase fuel price

The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has advised Nigerians to study Kaduna State’s example of peaceful coexistence across faith lines and ethnicity.

Senator Tinubu gave the commendation during the flagging off ceremony for the distribution of 100 trucks of rice and N1.2 billion palliative support to vulnerable Muslim communities in the 19 northern states and the Federal Capital Territory on Thursday.

Speaking at the event which took place at the Abba Kyari banquet hall, the First Lady noted that the gesture ‘’of solidarity to appreciate the Muslim Ummah of northern Nigeria. ‘’

‘’As we approach Eid el-Kabir, a season of sacrifice, compassion, and gratitude, through this intervention, we are translating the message of the season into palliatives for vulnerable Muslim communities across all 19 Northern States and the Federal Capital Territory,’’ she added.

Senator Tinubu recalled that ‘’on the 23rd December, 2025, we distributed palliatives to Christian communities across northern Nigeria. Today, we fulfil the same commitment to our Muslim brothers and sisters.’’

The First Lady appealed to all communities across the North to continue to live together in love and with mutual respect.

‘’I urge all our religious and community leaders to continue to shoulder the responsibility of preaching the message of peace. A united Nigeria is one that can overcome any challenge,’’ she added.

Senator Tinubu thanked all the Ulamas, traditional and community leaders for their prayers and support for this administration, adding that ‘’I applaud the Special Adviser to the President on Political Affairs, Alhaji Ibrahim Kabir Masari for his passion and dedication, and his entire team for coordinating this programme. ‘’

In his goodwill message, Governor Uba Sani paid tributes to the First Lady for her unwavering dedication to the welfare of the vulnerable which continues to inspire hope.

‘’Through your actions, you have demonstrated that true leadership is not merely about occupying high office, but about translating compassion into tangible impact,’’ he added.

The Governor recalled Senator Tinubu’s similar intervention late last year, when she reached out to Christian families across Northern Nigeria, by distributing Christmas packages.

‘’That noble gesture, much like the initiative we are witnessing Today, was far more than seasonal charity; it was a powerful expression of unity, inclusiveness, and shared humanity,’’ he noted

According to the Governor, the gesture ‘’conveyed a reassuring message that every Nigerian matters, regardless of faith, ethnicity, or social circumstance.’’

He argued that through the First Lady’s sustained philanthropy, she has elevated the standard of humanitarian service, adding that ‘’your interventions are thoughtful, inclusive, and deeply impactful, consistently reaching those at the margins of society.’’

‘’What makes your efforts particularly remarkable is their inclusiveness. Though Today’s programme is facilitated in
collaboration with the Muslim Intellectuals Forum, your compassion transcends all boundaries.

‘’Across Nigeria, both Muslims and Christians, as well as citizens from diverse ethnic and social backgrounds, have benefited from your generosity. In doing so, you embody the finest ideals of our nation: unity, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to the common good,’’ he added.

Governor Uba Sani also reiterated that ‘’in Kaduna State, we remain resolute in our commitment to alleviating hardship and improving the wellbeing of our people.’’

‘’Through targeted social intervention, support for small and medium enterprises, youth empowerment initiatives, agricultural development, and sustained investment in security, we are working diligently to cushion the effects of economic reforms and enhance the quality of life for our citizens,’’ he added.

‘Emulate Kaduna, live in peace’ – First Lady counsels Nigerians

Nottingham Forest on Thursday defeated Aston Villa 1-0 in the Europa League semi-final first leg encounter.

DAILY POST reports that Chris Wood scored the game’s only goal in the second half via a penalty at City Ground.

Nottingham Forest will now face Aston Villa in the return leg next week at Villa Park.

Similarly, Braga also defeated Freiburg 2-1 in the other Europa League semi-final first leg tie played on Thursday night.

Two goals from Demir Ege Tıknaz and Mario Dorgeles gave the hosts the victory against Freiburg at the Braga Municipal Stadium.

Freiburg will now take on Braga in the return leg at the Europa-Park-Stadion next Thursday.

Europa League: Nottingham Forest beat Aston Villa as Braga defeat Freiburg in semi-final

An investigation has been launched into the death of a contractor at Egbin Power Plc following an industrial accident that occurred during underwater maintenance operations at its facility in Lagos State.

The company’s management confirmed the incident to newsmen on Thursday.

It was gathered that the accident reportedly happened on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, and subsequently triggered a partial shutdown of operations within the plant.

The development also led to the temporary disconnection of the facility from the national grid.

Checks revealed that the power plant recorded zero megawatt generation on both Wednesday and Thursday.

According to sources, the deceased contractor, engaged as a diver for underwater maintenance at the plant’s lagoon-based pump house, was carrying out work inside the water system when a pump allegedly activated unexpectedly.

He was reportedly trapped in the impeller, leading to fatal injuries.

In response to the incident, operations in the affected section were immediately suspended as safety protocols were activated.

This later contributed to a shutdown of the plant as investigations commenced.

Confirming the development in a statement, the company expressed sadness over the loss of the contractor.

Egbin Power Plc, Nigeria’s largest power generation facility with an installed capacity of 1,320MW, stated that emergency response measures were promptly activated and relevant authorities duly informed.

The statement read in part: “Egbin Power Plc acknowledges a tragic incident involving a contractor during underwater maintenance activities at its plant. The board and management of Egbin Power express deep sorrow and extend heartfelt condolences to the family, loved ones, and colleagues of the deceased. Our thoughts are with them at this difficult time.

“Immediately following the incident, established emergency response, safety, and reporting protocols were activated, and the relevant authorities were promptly notified. Egbin Power is cooperating with relevant law enforcement agencies and other stakeholders as part of ongoing efforts to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident. A thorough review of the situation is currently underway.

“Egbin Power remains firmly committed to the health, safety, and well-being of all personnel and contractors and to maintaining the highest standards across its operations.”

Meanwhile, DAILY POST reports that the shutdown of the facility has resulted in power disruptions in parts of the electricity network, affecting supply in some locations connected to the plant.

Lagos: Contractor dies in underwater accident at Egbin power facility

Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency has confirmed the arrest and prosecution of a woman accused of assaulting her 15-year-old daughter in the Ipaja area of Lagos.

The development follows public outrage over a viral video that surfaced on Wednesday, showing the alleged incident at a residence on Tashoro Street near Ipaja.

In the footage, the woman was seen restraining the teenager while holding a knife after reportedly beating her within a residential compound, sparking widespread concern online.

Providing an update via its official X handle on Thursday, the agency said the case was brought to its attention through the viral clip, prompting an immediate response in line with established child protection protocols.

According to the statement, the victim was promptly rescued by the Child Protection Unit of the Ministry of Youth and Social Development and has since been placed in a shelter, where she is receiving care and psychosocial support.

The agency added that the suspect was apprehended by operatives of the Lagos Neighbourhood Safety Corps and subsequently handed over to the police at Ipaja Division.

“The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency was alerted to a distressing viral video depicting the alleged assault of a 15-year-old girl by her biological mother in the Ipaja area of Lagos State on Wednesday, 29th April 2026. The Agency immediately activated the State’s response protocol upon receipt of the report.

“The survivor was swiftly rescued by the Child Protection Unit of the Ministry of Youth and Social Development and has been placed in a shelter, where she is currently receiving appropriate care and support services.”

The case was later transferred to the Family Support Unit of the Ipaja Division of the Lagos State Police Command for further investigation.

LSDVA disclosed that the matter was subsequently filed before Court 23 of the Samuel Ilori Magistrate Court in Ogba, where the suspect was arraigned on Thursday.

Following the court proceedings, the defendant was remanded at the Kirikiri Correctional Centre pending legal advice from the Director of Public Prosecutions.

“Following diligent investigation, the case was charged to court on my Thursday, 30th April 2026, and heard at Court 23, Samuel Ilori Magistrate Court, Ogba, Lagos, even as the defendant has been remanded at the Kirikiri Correctional Centre pending the outcome of the Director of Public Prosecutions’ advice.

“We commend the swift collaboration of concerned Lagosians and mandated reporters in ensuring the safety of the survivor and the progression of the case through due legal process.”

The agency praised members of the public who reported the incident, noting that their prompt action played a vital role in ensuring the child’s safety and advancing the legal process.

It reiterated the Lagos State Government’s zero-tolerance in policy on child abuse and assured that all offenders would be prosecuted in accordance with the law.

Residents were also encouraged to continue reporting cases of domestic and sexual violence through designated helplines and official channels.

Lagos woman remanded for allegedly assaulting teenage daughter with knife

Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has expressed strong confidence in President Bola Tinubu’s chances in the 2027 general elections, declaring that the outcome is already settled in the president’s favour.

Speaking during an interview on Channels Television, Okpebholo said Tinubu’s performance in office and policy decisions have positioned him for re-election.

“President Tinubu has made a landmark for this country and this election is already as good as won,” the governor said. “His work, his policies, are speaking for him.”

The governor further to insisted that Tinubu’s victory was inevitable, dismissing the strength of opposition figures and growing political alignments against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
“Tinubu must win. Tell me, who is going to be better than Tinubu?” he queried

Okpebholo also alleged that opposition elements are fueling insecurity across the country to undermine the federal government ahead of the elections.

“It’s the opposition that are using these people,” he claimed. “They want Nigerians to say the president is not doing well.”

He described the claim as “a fact,” insisting that insecurity is being politically motivated.
Defending Tinubu’s popularity, the governor pointed to the defection of several governors to the APC as evidence of widespread support.

“If the president is not doing well, I don’t think all those governors will move to APC,” he said. “He’s the most popular person right now in Nigeria.”

Okpebholo reiterated his earlier promise to deliver millions of votes for Tinubu from Edo State, despite skepticism over the state’s voting strength.

“You were on the streets – you saw the people. They are the votes,” he said. “Everybody is coming out to vote for Asiwaju.”

He attributed the APC’s poor performance in Edo during the 2023 presidential election to what he described as a lack of governance by the previous administration.

“Peter Obi defeated last time because the governor then was not working,” he said. “Now we have a working government.”
On concerns about a united opposition front, Okpebholo downplayed its impact, maintaining that such alliances would ultimately fail.

“There will always be opposition,” he said. “The Bible says they must gather, but they will scatter.”

The governor also defended Tinubu’s economic reforms, particularly the removal of fuel subsidy, describing it as a bold decision no previous leader had taken.

“There are so many tough decisions taken by this president that no man has been able to take,” he said. “Let’s talk about subsidy removal—who had the courage to do that?”

Okpebholo insisted that Tinubu’s record in office would ultimately determine the outcome of the election.

“His work is speaking for him,” he said. “That is what will translate to votes.”

Tinubu Will Win, Election Already Decided,Says Okpebholo is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, on Thursday, formally presented Engr. Mustafa Gubio as the All Progressives Congress, APC, consensus governorship candidate to Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

Governor Zulum described Gubio’s emergence as the product of wide-range consultations among party stakeholders across the state, reflecting a strong unified position within the Borno APC.

“We commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his strategic leadership, unwavering support, and guidance to both the Borno State Government and the APC,” Zulum said.

He added: “I wish to express my profound gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the leadership he is providing in the country and for the enormous support to Borno State as well as the APC, which has been unprecedented. The President has been instrumental in the emergence of Gubio as the consensus candidate.”

Dignitaries in attendance included, former Governor Senator Ali Modu Sheriff (represented by Senator Maina Ma’aji Lawan), Deputy Governor Hon. Umar Usman Kadafur, APC Deputy National Chairman, Hon. Ali Bukar Dalori

Others were Senators Mohammed Tahir Monguno, Mohammed Ali Ndume, and Kaka Shehu Lawan SAN, Speaker, Borno State House of Assembly, Hon. Abdulkarim Lawan and Hon. Abdulkadir Rahis and Hon. Mukhtar Betara Aliyu.

Borno guber: Gov Zulum presents APC consensus candidate, Mustafa Gubio to VP Shettima

Monday Okpebholo, Governor of Edo State, has explained why the people of the state will vote for President Bola Tinubu in 2027.

Okpebholo said Edo people would vote for Tinubu because of the money he’s releasing to state governors.

He disclosed this during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today where he explained how the state would give Tinubu 2.5 million votes in 2027.

The governor assured that the people of the state would come out en-masse to vote for Tinubu to make up for the figure.

He said: “I will get the 2.5 million votes from Edo State, it’s already on the streets, everybody is coming to vote for Asiwaju on that day.”

The governor also disclosed that former presidential candidate, Peter Obi defeated Tinubu during the 2023 election in the state due to former governor Godwin Obaseki’s failure.

“Peter Obi defeated Tinubu last time because the then governor (Obaseki) was not working, he was in the PDP and people want to voice out that this governor is not working and anybody coming we are going to do it the other way around,” he said.

Asked if the people of Edo State will vote for Tinubu because of Okpebholo, the governor responded: “Because of the work we are doing, because of the money Tinubu is releasing to us to work for him and that is what you are seeing on the street.

“It has never happened in Edo State like this before.”

2027: ‘Money Tinubu gives govs will make Edo people vote him’ – Okpebholo