Author: The Whistler Newspaper

A Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered that the identity of a key prosecution witness in the ongoing trial of six suspected coup plotters be concealed from both the public and court records, following an application by the Federal Government.

Justice Joyce Abdulmalik granted the order on Wednesday after hearing arguments from the prosecution and defence lawyers in the case involving a 13-count charge marked FHC/ABJ/CR/206/2026.

The six defendants are retired Major General Mohammed Ibrahim Gana, retired Captain Erasmus Ochegobia Victor, Inspector Ahmed Ibrahim, Zekeri Umoru, Bukar Kashim Goni and Abdulkadir Sani. They are standing trial on charges bordering on treason, terrorism, failure to disclose security intelligence and money laundering linked to terrorism financing. They were arraigned on April 22 and all pleaded not guilty. Former Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Timipre Sylva, is listed as being at large in connection with the same charge.

When the matter came up on Wednesday for the commencement of trial, three bank witnesses from Jaiz Bank, SunTrust Bank and Providus Bank gave evidence and tendered documents obtained through the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission. The documents were admitted in evidence and the witnesses faced cross-examination by defence lawyers.

When a fourth witness was called, prosecution counsel Rotimi Oyedepo, SAN, applied for protective measures, arguing that the witness was a serving military officer whose exposure could put his safety at risk. He cited Section 232 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015, which empowers courts to adopt protective measures in terrorism-related proceedings.

Defence lawyers did not oppose the application outright but raised concerns about fair hearing. They argued that while shielding the witness from public view was acceptable, full anonymity from the defence team would hamper their ability to test the witness’s credibility and ensure a fair trial. They urged the court to balance security considerations against the defendants’ constitutional rights.

Justice Abdulmalik sided with the prosecution. She held that the terrorism-related nature of one of the counts justified the protective order and that the law permits the non-disclosure of a witness’s name, address and contact details where genuine security concerns exist.

She directed that the witness’s identity must not appear in any court records or proceedings accessible to the parties or the public, and adjourned briefly to allow a protective screen to be set up before the witness took the stand.

Alleged Coup Trial: Court Grants FG Plea For Witness Protection is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

The family of late rap icon Tupac Shakur has filed a wrongful death lawsuit in Los Angeles, seeking unspecified damages linked to the rapper’s 1996 murder.

The suit names former gang leader Duane “Keefe D” Davis, who is currently awaiting trial for his alleged role in the killing, as the main defendant alongside other unnamed co-conspirators.

Davis remains the only person ever charged in connection with Tupac’s death after years of investigations, and he has pleaded not guilty.

According to several US media reports, the lawsuit alleges a “complex conspiracy” to murder the rapper and aims to uncover the identities of all individuals allegedly involved through discovery.

Shakur, one of the most influential rappers of the early 1990s, sold over 75 million records and was known for hits such as Hit ‘Em Up and California Love. He also had a growing acting career, featuring in films like Juice, Above the Rim, and Poetic Justice.

His life was cut short when he was shot four times in a drive-by attack in Las Vegas in September 1996. He died in the hospital six days later at the age of 25.

Davis was charged with murder in September 2023. Prosecutors allege he planned the shooting with his nephew following an altercation with Shakur in a casino.

In court, prosecutor Marc DiaGiacomo described Davis formerly of the South Side Compton Crips as the “on-ground, on-site commander” who “ordered the death” of Shakur.

Police also said Davis obtained the weapon from an unnamed associate and referenced his own admissions in media interviews about being present in the vehicle from which shots were fired. However, they did not state who pulled the trigger. The three other occupants of the car, including Davis’ nephew, are now deceased.

Davis has pleaded not guilty, and his trial is expected to begin in August after several delays.

The new civil case, which is separate from the criminal trial, was filed on Tuesday by Tupac’s brother, Maurice Shakur, acting as administrator of the estate of their late father, Mutulu Shakur.

“Nearly 30 years after Tupac’s death, in 2023, the first – and only – arrest was made,” the court documents stated.

“Related grand jury transcripts and a subsequent Netflix documentary have since revealed the existence of a broader, more complex conspiracy to murder Tupac that involved much more than mere retaliation for a prior altercation.”

The filing says the family hopes to identify all individuals who may have been involved in planning, financing, directing, or carrying out the killing. It cites grand jury materials and the Netflix documentary Sean Combs: The Reckoning as part of its basis for new evidence.

The documentary reportedly included police interview footage in which Davis alleged that Sean “Diddy” Combs offered him $1 million to kill Shakur. Combs has repeatedly denied any involvement, calling the documentary a “shameful hit piece.”

The BBC says it has contacted Combs’ legal team and Davis’ representatives for comment.

Tupac Family Files Wrongful Death Lawsuit Over 1996 Killing is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

Celebrity barman and socialite, Pascal Okechukwu, popularly known as Cubana Chief Priest, has announced plans to contest for a House of Representatives seat in the 2027 general election.

Okechukwu announced this in a video posted on his Instagram page.

He plans to run for the Orsu/Orlu/Oru East Federal Constituency, Imo State, on the All Progressives Congress (APC) platform.

He wrote, “Stopped by at our great party state secretariat to congratulate & encourage our state working committee on their emergence and above all, I made known to them my humble aspirations to represent my people, the good people of Orsu/Orlu & Oru East Federal Constituency at the Federal House of Reps. Na God get power, let the will of God be done.”

“So, all I’m asking is for your blessings,” he added.

He further called for unity among party members, urging them to work together as “brothers, sisters, and party people” in pursuit of shared political goals.

His declaration comes amid his involvement with the City Boy Movement, started by Seyi Tinubu, son of President Bola Tinubu

The group has been mobilising support for President Tinubu’s re-election.

Okechukwu is the Imo State director of the movement.

Cubana Chief Priest Announces 2027 Reps Bid is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

Shareholders of Nigerian Exchange Group Plc have approved a final dividend of N2.00 per share and a one-for-three bonus share issue, effectively a 33 per cent increase in shareholding, at the company’s 65th Annual General Meeting (AGM).

The approvals, alongside the adoption of the audited financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2025, highlight a period of strong financial delivery and disciplined execution by the Group.

Shareholders also endorsed an increase in share capital to accommodate the bonus issuance, as well as the re-election of key directors, including Umaru Kwairanga, Okechukwu Itanyi, and Ojinika Olaghere, signaling continuity in governance and oversight.

At the meeting, investors commended the Board and Management for delivering improved returns and strengthening the Nigerian capital market ecosystem.

They noted that recent reforms and operational enhancements have contributed to a more structured and resilient market environment.

Speaking during the AGM, President of the New Dimension Shareholders Association, Patrick Ajudua, described the Group’s financial performance as reflective of both favorable market conditions and deliberate strategic execution.

According to him, the results demonstrate that the business is gaining momentum and operational clarity.

Similarly, Chairman of the Progressive Shareholders Association of Nigeria, Boniface Okezie, praised the Group’s focus on innovation and market infrastructure development.

He noted that ongoing initiatives aimed at deepening participation and enhancing trading systems are beginning to yield tangible benefits for investors.

In his remarks, the Group Chairman, Kwairanga, expressed appreciation to shareholders for their continued support, emphasizing the Board’s commitment to sustaining long-term value creation.

He said the Group would continue to prioritize strong corporate governance, disciplined oversight, and strategic positioning to deliver consistent returns.

Also speaking, Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Temi Popoola, said the next phase of growth would focus on scaling market infrastructure, broadening investor participation, and unlocking new channels for capital formation.

He noted that the Group is building on its current momentum to strengthen its role as a central player in Nigeria’s financial markets.

The outcome of the AGM reflects sustained shareholder confidence in NGX Group’s leadership and long-term strategy, with expectations that the combination of dividend payouts, bonus shares, and continued reforms will enhance shareholder value while supporting the ongoing evolution of Nigeria’s capital market.

Shareholders Applaud NGX Reforms, Approve Investor Rewards is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

A video of Salvation Ministries founder, Pastor David Ibiyeomie, has triggered backlash following his remarks about American rapper 50 Cent.

In the widely circulated clip, Ibiyeomie recounted an alleged encounter involving the US music star’s planned visit to Port Harcourt, Rivers State, some years ago.

He said the rapper was scheduled to perform in the city on the same day his church was holding a crusade.

He said the situation created tension among young members of his congregation who were eager to attend the concert.

“When 50 Cent was at his peak, he was to come to Port Harcourt for a musical jam. And the same day, we were to hold a crusade. I said, if 50 Cent should come and you believers go there… if he comes, I will not come,” he said.

“I said if 50 Cent comes to perform, then God did not call me,” he added.

Ibiyeomie recalled that the rapper’s visit to the state did not go as planned due to logistical issues that disrupted the arrangement.

“He got to Lagos to fly to Port Harcourt and had issues. He turned back to America. Those who bought tickets had to come for the program,” he stated.

The trending video is drawing reactions from Nigerians on X.

@coachwillfred wrote, “Who are you to judge 50 Cent as a sinner? Meanwhile, you are the worst sinner.”

Another user, @eney, said, “The man no dey carry him offerings and tithes play. See him money-making machines screaming their lungs out.”

@boss5 commented, “Can you help shut down the APC government? Ahahn, una prophecy no dey ever change country…”

@olawaloni added, “Oya sir, for me to believe, help us pray to God that Tinubu should not return to office for a second term…”

@redeyetheplug wrote, “The Power of the Tongue !!! If e reach your turn to tell God.”

@dsr added, “This is a matter of negotiation. If we pay 50 Cent to come sing in Port Harcourt, he will definitely come.”

Pastor Ibiyeomie Under Fire Over Comment On 50 Cent is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar on Wednesday met behind closed doors with ex-governor of Rivers State, Rotimi Amaechi.

The meeting was held at Amaechi’s Abuja residence.

Although details of the meeting are yet to unfold, it may not be unconnected to the African Democratic Congress, ADC, presidential ticket.

DAILY POST reports that Atiku, Amaechi and former governor of Anambra State, Peter Obi, are battling to grab the ticket ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

There has been debate about whether the ADC candidacy should be zoned to the South or not.

Reports claim that Amaechi may step down for Atiku and serve as as his running mate.

Watch video on Facebook

2027: Atiku holds closed-door meeting with Amaechi [VIDEO]

Ethiopian Airlines has officially abandoned the Nigeria Air national carrier project and will instead focus on expanding its independent commercial operations in Nigeria.

The Group Chief Executive Officer of Ethiopian Airlines, Mesfin Tasew, confirmed the development on Wednesday during a press briefing at the ongoing IATA Focus Africa Conference in Addis Ababa.

“I would like to start by saying to the public that the national carrier project no longer exists. That has been abandoned, and it is safe to say so,” Tasew stated.

The Nigeria Air project, which involved a partnership model with Ethiopian Airlines, had faced prolonged controversy, legal disputes, and policy changes. The plan had previously featured a branded aircraft unveiled in Abuja during the tenure of former Aviation Minister Hadi Sirika.

Tasew’s remarks effectively signal the end of Ethiopian Airlines’ involvement in the proposed national carrier arrangement.

Despite the development, he stressed that relations with Nigeria remain strong, adding that the airline is instead expanding its own operations in the country.

“We have been flying from four cities in Nigeria. Previously, we had four flights per week to Nigeria; now that has increased to six every day, and it will increase further,” he said.

He explained that the airline’s strategy has shifted toward commercial partnerships rather than equity participation in national carriers.

“Our relationship with the Nigerian government is very good now, and we would like to have partnerships like commercial agreements with more independent airlines in Nigeria,” he added.

However, Tasew ruled out any further “identity-based” airline partnerships in Nigeria, stating, “Otherwise, we don’t have any intention of having any type of partnership in Nigeria.”

He noted that Ethiopian Airlines remains open to collaboration with other African countries where mutual interest exists, but emphasized that such arrangements cannot be imposed unilaterally.

Beyond Nigeria, the airline said it is actively pursuing expansion opportunities across the continent, with several African nations reportedly expressing interest in replicating its multi-hub aviation model.

Ethiopian Airlines Abandons Nigeria Air Project, Expands Routes is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

Founding National Chairman of the opposition African Democratic Congress (ADC), Raph Nwosu, has explained that the 2027 elections will not hold if the opposition party is not on the ballot.

Nwosu also declared that ADC has already secured required statistics and numbers to take over from the incumbent President Bola Tinubu in 2027.

He spoke at a party event on Wednesday in Abuja.

According to him, with the coalition, the party has recorded phenomenal achievements, adding that up till Tuesday evening some serving senators in the ruling APC and other parties were still talking to ADC leadership to join the party.

The large gathering brought together young men and women who are contesting different positions across the country, with prominent party leaders in attendance.

Nwosu revealed further that in taking over ADC, the coalition did everything right and nothing was done wrong, blaming the current challenges facing the party on the existing culture of impunity in Nigerian politics.

“The culture in place is dirty. It’s very difficult to change the culture, but we will continue working very hard to do so once we are determined. You don’t need a million people to do it; you just need a few determined minds.

“With the number we have today in ADC, what we have achieved by the Coalition is phenomenal, and no matter how anybody thinks they can knock this down, they cannot. To knock this down will be almost like knocking our democracy down, and God will not allow that. We have put enough strategies in places to ensure that it doesn’t happen.

“But what you may hear happening and see happening now, when people in power, especially in the third world country, people who love impunity and feel that they can play God, are in power, they would try everything, especially when it’s clear to them that their time is over.

“The time is over for Tinubu politically, and he must go. The time is over for Akpabio (Senate president), and they must go.

“The statistics are already there in our portal. I think we’re already recording over 5 million people who are desirous to pay money and to become members of ADC. By the time the registration closes down, if it has not closed down by today, we will have a minimum of 11 million people that are ready to contribute money,” he stated.

“All I know is that Tinubu and Amupitan cannot conduct any election in this country if ADC is not on the ballot,” Nwosu added.

This comes as David Mark-led leadership of the ADC grapples with internal crisis.

A federal High Court on Wednesday barred the Independent National Electoral Commission from recognizing ADC leadership under David Mark.

Earlier in his remarks, ADC National Youth Leader, Comrade Balarabe Rufai, said the 35% affirmative action for youth and women must go beyond declarations.

Rafai declared that ADC leadership under Senator David Mark should not preach inclusion and practice exclusion, especially to the youth constituency.

“As we approach our party primaries, let it be stated without hesitation or ambiguity, The Constitution of the African Democratic Congress has already settled the question of inclusion and its provisions are sacrosanct and non negotiable.

“The Youth Constituency is not begging for space. We are asserting our constitutional rights. By the binding authority of our party constitution:
Twelve Governorship tickets are reserved for the Youth Constituency.
At least one Senate ticket in every state belongs to the youth”, he stated.

2027 elections won’t hold without ADC on the ballot — Nwosu

The Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has said there is need for Igbo to interrogate their claims of marginalization, to ascertain whether the clamour for secession is right or wrong.

Soludo stated this on Tuesday when he delivered the 6th Biennial Adada Lecture organised by the Association of Nsukka Professors at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN).

He said it was surprising that the ivory tower no longer interrogates issues the way it used to, insisting that universities generally have lowered the bar of critical thinking.

“The Nigeria-Biafra war was literally declared from this hall (UNN), and the justification or otherwise of that declaration should have been interrogated by the university community.

“We are producing thousands of papers that never leave the shelves, while the country struggles for real solutions.

“Nigeria is drowning in more noise but less light. We must condemn the growing gap between classroom ideas and government action. Knowledge that does not shape policy is as good as useless.

“The future of the Igbo lies in a united Nigeria. Igbo intellectuals must lead the debate—not leave it to street rhetoric.

“Stop standing arms akimbo while the nation drifts, the silence from the intellectual class could cost Africa dearly. Talent is not enough, if you don’t act, you’re part of the problem,” the governor said.

Citing global icons like Isaac Newton, Nnamdi Azikiwe and Kwame Nkrumah, Soludo reminded scholars that history favours thinkers who act—not those who only write.

Soludo challenged lecturers to look inward, insisting that intellectualism without action is sterile.

Igbos must interrogate claims of marginalization before agitating for Biafra – Soludo

Zimbabwe interim head coach Kaitano Tembo is looking forward to his side’s Unity Cup clash with the Super Eagles of Nigeria, DAILY POST reports.

The Warriors will face the defending champions in the semi-final of the friendly invitational tournament at the Valley, home ground of Sky Bet Championship club, Charlton Athletic on Tuesday, May 26.

The winner of the tie will face Jamaica or India in the final.

Tembo reckoned the Super Eagles are a top quality side, and he can’t wait to flex muscles with the three-time African champions.

“Nigeria is a top side with quality players, so we respect them. But at the same time, we believe in our squad. Preparation will be key — organisation, discipline and making sure the players understand their roles.It’s an opportunity for us to compete and showcase our strength,” the gaffer told the Zimbabwe Football Association official website.

DAILY POST reports that Zimbabwe faced the Super Eagles twice during the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, with both matches ending in draws.

Unity Cup: Zimbabwe ready to challenge Super Eagles — Coach Tembo