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The Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, has expressed shock over the attack on a church gathering in Eda Oniyo Ekiti, where gunmen reportedly killed a pastor and abducted several worshippers during an open-air crusade.

CAN, in a statement signed by Archbishop Daniel Okoh, described the incident as disturbing.

The apex Christian body condemned the attack, and urged the government to take immediate action to stop further attacks and bring the perpetrators to book.

“This is not just an attack on a church; it is a brutal assault on our shared humanity and the sanctity of life,” the statement added.

CAN extended its condolences to the family of the slain pastor, saying it stands in full solidarity with the victims and the entire Christian community in Ekiti State.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with those who have been taken, and we call for their immediate and safe release,” it said.

“This latest tragedy comes amid a disturbing pattern of attacks. Only recently, gunmen struck communities in Yagba West Local Government Area of Kogi State, abducting residents including clergy, their families, and other community members. These repeated incidents underscore a deepening security crisis that can no longer be ignored,” it went on.

“This attack further heightens concerns about the safety of lives and the protection of communities. No one should have to live in fear, and no place of worship must ever become a hunting ground for criminals.

“We must be unequivocal: the protection of lives and property is the primary responsibility of government. We call on the authorities and security agencies to act swiftly, decisively, and transparently.

“Those responsible for this atrocity must be apprehended and brought to justice without delay. Every necessary effort must be made to rescue those abducted unharmed.

“We also urge the government to immediately strengthen security presence, especially in vulnerable and rural communities, and to deploy proactive intelligence measures to prevent further attacks.

“At the same time, we must all speak out firmly. The killing of a Pastor and the abduction of worshippers gathered to commune with their Creator is deeply troubling. It reflects a grave disregard for life, for faith, and for the moral fabric of our society.

“We have a duty to communicate these concerns clearly, firmly, and without equivocation to the appropriate authorities. Nigeria must not normalise the killing of worshippers or the abduction of innocent citizens in places of refuge.”

Ekiti church attack: CAN expresses shock, demands decisive action

Former FBI Director James Comey, one of President Donald Trump’s most prominent political adversaries, has been indicted for a second time by the Trump administration over a beach photo he posted on social media last year that officials claim was a coded threat against the life of the president. He is expected to surrender to federal authorities on Wednesday.

Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche announced that a federal grand jury in the Eastern District of North Carolina indicted Comey on two felony counts related to threats against the life of the president. If convicted on both counts, the 65-year-old could face up to 20 years in federal prison.

The charges centre on a photo Comey posted on Instagram in May last year showing seashells arranged to form the numbers “86 47.” The number 86 is slang for eliminating something or someone, while 47 corresponds to Trump’s designation as the 47th president. Trump was blunt about his interpretation, saying “a child knows what that meant. It meant murder.”

Comey deleted the post the same day, saying he did not realise some people associated those numbers with violence. In a video response on Substack, Comey said “I’m still innocent, I’m still not afraid, and I still believe in the independent federal judiciary, so let’s go.” His lawyer said they would fight the charges and look forward to vindicating both Comey and the First Amendment.

This is the second attempt by the Trump administration to prosecute Comey, who served as FBI Director from 2013 until Trump fired him in 2017 during the agency’s investigation into alleged Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election.

He has since become one of Trump’s most vocal critics. The first prosecution attempt, on charges of lying to Congress, was dismissed last year after a judge ruled the prosecutor handling the case had been unlawfully appointed.

The new indictment comes weeks after Trump dismissed Attorney General Pam Bondi, with Blanche, previously Trump’s personal lawyer, now leading the Justice Department.

It was filed three days after Trump was evacuated from the White House Correspondents’ Dinner following an alleged assassination attempt. The case has been assigned to US District Judge Louise Flanagan in North Carolina.

Ex-FBI Director Comey Indicted Over Social Media Post is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

Champion Breweries Plc (“Champion” or “the Company”) has released its unaudited financial results for the three months ended March 31, 2026, marking a significant milestone as the Company presents its first consolidated Group financial results following its recent strategic expansion.

The Group reported revenue of ₦14.36 billion, +69% for the period, representing a strong increase compared to the prior year, driven by the consolidation of its newly acquired subsidiary. Operating performance remained resilient, with operating profit rising to approximately ₦3.02 billion at the Group level, reflecting continued discipline in cost management and operational efficiency.

Despite a softer consumer environment and lower volumes in the core domestic market, the Company maintained a solid gross profit margin of 48%, supported by improved cost efficiencies and disciplined commercial execution. This underscores the strength of Champion’s underlying business fundamentals.

The transition to a Group structure follows the Company’s acquisition of an 80% equity interest in enJOYbev B.V., whose performance is now consolidated into the Group accounts for the first time.

This strategic expansion has already begun to contribute positively to earnings, with the subsidiary delivering operating profitability within the reporting period. While the Company recorded a net loss at the standalone level, primarily driven by financing costs associated with its recent strategic investments, Group-level profitability remained positive, with profit after tax of approximately ₦881 million. This reflects the early benefits of diversification and the strengthening of Champion’s earnings base through its expanded portfolio.

Importantly, the Company continues to generate finance income from invested funds, reflecting prudent treasury management and supporting overall liquidity. This provides additional stability as the Group advances its strategic initiatives.

Looking ahead, Champion Breweries Plc remains confident in its outlook. With the Group structure now in place, improved earnings contributions from its expanded operations, and a clear focus on market execution, the Company expects a progressively stronger performance trajectory in the coming quarters.

Management reiterates its commitment to delivering sustainable value to shareholders, strengthening market positioning, and navigating prevailing economic conditions with discipline and resilience.

About Champion Breweries Plc.

Champion Breweries Plc is a leading Nigerian beverage company engaged in the brewing, marketing, and distribution of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. The Company now operates as a Group, with an expanding regional footprint following its strategic investment in enJOYbev B.V.

Champion Breweries Plc reports Q1 2026 results, announces transition to group reporting structure

The political atmosphere in Mushin Constituency II came alive on Wednesday as former Lagos State All Progressives Congress, APC, spokesman, Seye Oladejo, formally picked his nomination form to contest for the House of Representatives seat under the party.

Speaking shortly after picking the nomination form, Oladejo reiterated his unwavering commitment to quality representation and impactful legislative service.

“This aspiration is inspired by my enduring commitment to serve our people at a higher level. Mushin deserves a strong voice at the National Assembly, one that will vigorously pursue development, empowerment, and the welfare of our constituents.

“I am stepping forward with the experience, vision, and determination to make a difference,” he stated.

The development was greeted with widespread excitement and enthusiasm across party ranks, community stakeholders, and supporters, who see the move as a major step towards securing experienced, effective, and result-oriented representation for the constituency.

Oladejo, a respected voice in progressive politics and a tested party stalwart, is widely known for his years of dedicated service to the APC in Lagos State, where he distinguished himself as one of the most articulate defenders of the party’s ideals and policies.

Ex-Lagos APC spokesman, Seye Oladejo picks APC nomination form for House of Reps

The cold-blooded killing of 28-year-old Mene Ogidi in Effurun has not only sparked nationwide outrage but has also pulled back the curtain on the dark history of the officer behind the trigger. ASP Usman Nuhu, popularly known by the chilling alias “Ogbegbe” a local term loosely translated as “Gun-shooter” is currently in police custody, but his arrest has raised deeper questions about how an officer with his reputation remained in active service.

Here is everything we know so far about the man at the center of this murder investigation.

1. Current Posting: Effurun Area Command
   At the time of the fatal shooting on Sunday, April 26, 2026, ASP Usman Nuhu was attached to the Effurun Area Command in Delta State. It was from this tactical hub that he led the team that intercepted the deceased, Mene Ogidi, at the Benin Motor Park along the Warri–Sapele Expressway.
2. The Meaning Behind “Ogbegbe”
   In the streets of the Niger Delta, Nuhu earned the moniker “Ogbegbe.” The name, which translates to “Gun-shooter,” was not merely a nickname but a description of his operational style. To residents and those who had encountered him, it signified an officer who was quick to draw his weapon and prone to using lethal force as a first resort rather than a last.
3. History Rooted In “SARS” Era
   Usman Nuhu’s background is steeped in the controversial tactics of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS), a unit that many Nigerians view as the direct successor to the notorious and disbanded Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS). During his tenure with the RRS, Nuhu reportedly faced multiple internal petitions and informal allegations regarding extrajudicial killings.
4. Trail Of Disciplinary Transfers
   Before his arrival at the Uvwie Area Command, ASP Nuhu was posted at the Divisional Police Headquarters in Illah.

His exit from Illah was not a routine administrative rotation. Information reaching The Whistler indicates that Nuhu was transferred out due to repeated misconduct. His superiors reportedly received consistent complaints regarding his excessive use of force and total disregard for standard police engagement protocols.

Rather than facing a dismissal or tribunal at that time, he was simply moved to Uvwie, a move critics say allowed his violent tendencies to eventually culminate in the murder of Ogidi.

5. The “Execution” In Effurun
   The murder of Mene Ogidi was captured in a viral video that has become the primary evidence against the officer.

• Point-Blank Execution: Unlike a typical “accidental discharge” claim, the footage shows Nuhu executing a suspect who was already restrained and sitting on the ground.

• Force Order 237: The Nigeria Police Force has officially admitted that Nuhu’s actions were a clear violation of the rules governing the use of firearms, which strictly prohibit the use of lethal force on a non-threatening, restrained individual.

6. Allegations Of An Organized Cover-Up
   While “Ogbegbe” is currently in custody and facing a Force Disciplinary Committee in Abuja, there is growing concern regarding his accomplices.

• At least three other officers were present during the shooting. While Nuhu pulled the trigger, eyewitnesses claim the other members facilitated the execution by helping to restrain the victim and failing to intervene as Nuhu prepared to fire.

• There are ongoing allegations suggesting that attempts may be underway within certain circles of the police command to shield these accomplices from public identification to minimize the institutional fallout.

7. Current Status

ASP Usman Nuhu has been moved to the Force Headquarters for interrogation and disciplinary proceedings. The Delta State Police Command has assured the public that “justice will not only be done but will be seen to be done.”

However, for the family of Mene Ogidi, the focus remains on ensuring that the man known as “The Gun-shooter” faces the full weight of the law for murder, and that the systemic failures that protected him through years of misconduct are finally addressed.

ASP Nuhu: Seven Facts About Delta Shooting Officer is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

Ayo Kuti, the 18-year-old son of Afrobeat musician Femi Kuti, has revealed that he lost his virginity at 16 in an effort to surpass his father, who he says lost his at 17.

Speaking during a recent live stream with Davreal, Ayo said: “The only reason I lost my virginity at 16 was that my dad told me he lost his at 17. So I said, ‘Okay, I have to be number one in my family’… My dad is a bad boy.”

Ayo also made claims about his parents’ living arrangements, stating that Femi Kuti and his partner do not share the same bed due to concerns over sexually transmitted diseases. “My parents also don’t sleep on the same bed because of STDs. We don’t do that in our house,” he said.

Femi Kuti, son of late Afrobeat pioneer Fela Kuti, has long been outspoken about his personal views on sex and marriage. In a 2012 interview, the Grammy-nominated artist disclosed that his marriage to Funke Kuti ended because he “could not be a faithful partner.”

The Kuti family remains one of Nigeria’s most influential musical dynasties, known both for their artistry and for their candid discussions of social and personal issues.

I Lost Virginity At 16 To Beat Father’s Record, Says Kuti is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

The Deputy Speaker of the Borno State House of Assembly, Abdullahi Askira, explained why he formally withdrew from the race to pick up the All Progressives Congress ticket for the South Borno Senatorial district ahead of the 2027 general election.

In a statement on Wednesday, his aide, Bilyaminu Umar Ngulde, said his decision to step down from the race was informed by several appeals by APC stakeholders in Borno South.

“I write to respectfully notify you that after extensive consultations, our great party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), has decided to award Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume, the party’s ticket for the forthcoming 2027 general election.

Following these wide-ranging consultations, the party called upon Honourable Abdullahi Musa Askira and requested him to step down in favor of the incumbent senator, Ali Ndume. In the spirit of party loyalty and collective progress, the Honorable Abdullahi Musa Askira has graciously complied.

“He hereby calls on all his supporters across Askira-Uba and the entire Southern Senatorial District to give their 100% support to Senator Ndume. He also appeals for peace, unity, understanding, and a shared commitment to the development of Southern Borno,” he stated.

The move gave the incumbent senator, Ali Ndume, a huge boost to return to the red chambers for the fifth time.

2027: Why I stepped down for Nigerian Senator Ndume – APC’s Askira

Nollywood actor Saga Adeolu has spoken candidly about the challenges of filming intimate scenes, revealing that many actors do not genuinely enjoy kissing on set despite widespread public assumptions.

Speaking during a recent episode of the Nolly Icons podcast, the former BBNaija star explained that onscreen kisses are often uncomfortable and are performed strictly as part of professional storytelling.

“It is not easy to kiss another actor. It is weird. I have not really had any good onscreen kisses. It is weird having people invade your mouth with saliva,” he said.

Saga noted that while audiences may assume actors derive pleasure from romantic scenes, the reality is often far less glamorous.

“It is not something we enjoy. People think we enjoy it, but we don’t. We are just doing it for the story most of the time.

“If I had my way, I wouldn’t kiss anyone in a film. There was a day I kissed four different girls on set,” he added.

Despite appearing in multiple romantic roles, the actor admitted he has yet to experience a pleasant onscreen kiss, emphasizing that such scenes can feel awkward and emotionally detached.

He further stressed that actors deserve recognition for their professionalism in executing intimate scenes, rather than being judged or misunderstood by viewers.

Saga’s remarks have sparked conversations about the behind-the-scenes realities of Nollywood productions, shedding light on the less glamorous aspects of performance often overlooked by fans.

Actors Don’t Enjoy Kissing On Set, Says Saga is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

Afghanistan women will become a “symbol of resilience” after FIFA approved their return to international competition, says former captain Khalida Popal.

Afghanistan have not played a competitive international since December 2018.

The Taliban’s return to power in 2021 triggered restrictions on women’s rights, including a ban on women’s sports which forced many players to seek asylum overseas.

FIFA’S governance regulations previously prevented it from officially recognising a team unless they were recognised by their member association, in this case the Afghanistan Football Federation.

However, the amendment – approved at a Fifa council meeting in Vancouver on Tuesday – means Fifa can approve the registration of a national or representative team “under exceptional circumstances” to ensure players are not prevented from playing international football due to “situations beyond their control”.

It means Afghan players will be able to represent their country in official matches with full recognition.

“Our team has always been known as an activist team,” Popal told Reuters.

“But this opportunity, with the right support from Fifa, will be the time for us to also show some skills and develop the youth talent in the diaspora.

“I know it’s going to be tough because Afghan women inside Afghanistan will struggle to be part of that.

“But if we can still be the voice for them to send out hope messages and show them our support that you are not forgotten, then we will continue to use our platform.”

FIFA’S decision builds on the formation of Afghan Women United, a refugee team sanctioned and supported by Fifa for a one-year pilot in May 2025 after several years of lobbying by the country’s displaced players.

Afghanistan will not be eligible to qualify for the 2027 Women’s World Cup, but they could compete in qualifying for the 2028 Olympics and are expected to return to action in June.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino said: “We are proud of the beautiful journey initiated by Afghan Women United and, with this initiative, we aim to enable them, as well as other FIFA member associations that ⁠may not be able to register a national or representative team for a Fifa competition, to make the next step.”

There are more than 80 Afghan female footballers in Australia, Europe, USA and the Middle East, including many of the 25 players under contract before the Taliban’s takeover.

Regional selection camps, hosted by FIFA, are taking place in England and Australia before a training camp in New Zealand in June.

Afghan United Women played three matches in 2025 as part of the FIFA United Women’s Series, with their first win coming against Libya in November.

FIFA Approves Afghanistan Women’s Return To International Competition is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

Actress Tonto Dikeh’s ex-husband, Olakunle Churchill, has stated that there’s no legally recognized marriage between him and his wife, Rosy Meurer.

This is coming amid reports of their marital crisis.

DAILY POST reports that Meurer had filed for divorce from Churchill following his recent reconciliation with his ex-wife, Tonto Dikeh who is now an evangelist.

Reacting to the divorce documents shared online, Churchill, in a series of posts on his Instagram page on Wednesday, tagged the divorce idea as baseless, stating that his marriage to Muerer had no legal binding to require a divorce.

While questioning the process of the divorce document and the expertise of Meurer’s lawyer, he noted that he only had an introduction with her; “What took place was an introduction. Therefore, the idea of a “divorce” is baseless from the outset.

“The reports circulating online about a supposed divorce between myself and Roseline Meurer are completely false. There is no truth to them. There was no legally recognized marriage. There was no church wedding and no court wedding.

“Beyond that, any legitimate legal process requires that all parties be formally served and given the opportunity to respond. I was never served. So I ask a simple question: what exactly is being presented to the public, and how was it obtained?

“I’m 100% sure that individuals without proper experience in the media space are advising Rosy incorrectly, alongside legal practitioners who operate under a mango tree without due process and claim to produce divorce documents within 24 hours”, he said.

There was no legal marriage between us’ – Churchill tells Meurer amid marital crisis