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Channels Television has debunked the statement by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Nyesom Wike, that it is making money from land allocated to it in Abuja.

The media organization made the rebuttal on Thursday, stating that the minister’s statement is incorrect.

Recall that on Wednesday during a media parley engaged in a public dispute with Channels Television, suggesting that the media organization benefited from land allocations in Abuja.

According to the media organization, all land obligations were met in 2007.

“The statement that Channels is making money from the land allocated to it in Guzape is not correct; all required fees were fully paid.

“While airtime for live coverage is paid for, we ensure to ask the right questions and will not allow any form of deflection,” it said.

Channels TV dismisses Wike’s claim over alleged land allocation

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has confirmed hantavirus cases aboard the cruise ship MV Hondius, with three deaths and several suspected cases reported as of early May 2026. The ship, which departed from Ushuaia in Argentina, South America, is headed to Tenerife in the Canary Islands, Spain, after being held off the coast of Cape Verde in West Africa.

WHO says the global public health risk remains low, but passengers who disembarked earlier are being monitored in countries including Switzerland in Europe, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

According to the WHO’s fact sheet, below are ten things to know about the rodent-borne disease with no cure.

1. Hantaviruses are rodent-borne zoonotic viruses: They naturally infect rodents and can spread to humans through contact with infected rodent urine, droppings, or saliva. Each hantavirus is usually linked to one specific rodent species that carries it without getting sick.
2. Two distinct disease patterns exist by region: In the Americas, hantaviruses cause hantavirus cardiopulmonary syndrome (HCPS), which attacks the lungs and heart. In Europe and Asia, they cause haemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS), which primarily affects the kidneys and blood vessels.
3. Fatality rates are high, especially in the Americas – HCPS has a case fatality rate of up to 50 per cent, commonly 20-40 per cent. HFRS in Asia and Europe has a lower fatality rate of less than 1 per cent to 15 per cent.
4. Infections are uncommon but widespread: An estimated 10,000 to over 100,000 people are infected globally each year. The largest burden is in Asia and Europe, with China and South Korea reporting thousands of HFRS cases annually. The Americas see hundreds of HCPS cases per year.
5. Transmission is mainly through environmental exposure: People get infected by inhaling aerosolised particles from contaminated rodent urine, droppings, or saliva, or less commonly through rodent bites. High-risk activities include cleaning poorly ventilated spaces, farming, forestry work, and sleeping in rodent-infested dwellings.
6. Human-to-human transmission is rare and limited: So far, it has only been documented for the Andes virus in South America, primarily in Argentina and Chile. When it occurs, it’s among close and prolonged contacts like household members or intimate partners during the early phase of illness.
7. Symptoms appear 1-8 weeks after exposure: Early symptoms include fever, headache, muscle aches, and gastrointestinal issues like nausea and abdominal pain.

HCPS can quickly progress to cough, shortness of breath, and fluid accumulation in the lungs. HFRS can lead to low blood pressure, bleeding disorders, and kidney failure.

8. Early diagnosis is difficult: The initial symptoms overlap with influenza, COVID-19, dengue, leptospirosis, and sepsis. A careful patient history focusing on rodent exposure, occupation, and travel is essential for suspicion. Laboratory confirmation relies on serological tests for antibodies or RT-PCR during the acute phase.
9. There is no specific treatment or vaccine: Care is supportive and focuses on close monitoring and management of respiratory, cardiac, and kidney complications. Early access to intensive care significantly improves survival, particularly for HCPS patients.
10. Prevention centres on reducing human-rodent contact: Key measures include keeping homes and workplaces clean, sealing rodent entry points, storing food securely, dampening contaminated areas before cleaning instead of dry sweeping, and maintaining hand hygiene.

In healthcare settings, standard and transmission-based precautions are advised, with airborne precautions for aerosol-generating procedures.

10 Things To Know About Hantavirus With No Cure is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

The Sokoto State Government has confirmed that a fresh outbreak of cerebrospinal meningitis has killed 33 children, while 256 suspected cases have been recorded across several local government areas of the state.

Cerebrospinal meningitis is a severe infection that causes inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. The disease spreads rapidly during the hot, dry season, particularly in overcrowded areas with poor ventilation. Northern Nigeria, including Sokoto, lies within the “meningitis belt,” a region frequently affected by recurring outbreaks.

The State Commissioner for Health, Faruk Abubakar, confirmed the figures on Wednesday during an advocacy meeting with district heads on SARMAAN and MNTE, organised by the State Primary Healthcare Development Agency in collaboration with Sightsavers and the Chigari Foundation.

He said the outbreak had spread across eight local government areas, with Sabon Birni recording the highest number of cases at 63, followed by Wamakko with 60, Shagari with 51, Tambuwal with 33, and Dange Shuni with 26. Other affected areas include Kebbe, Bodinga, Gada and Kware.

According to him, many of the deaths occurred in communities before victims could reach health facilities, largely due to delays in seeking treatment and widespread misconceptions that the illness is caused by spiritual factors rather than being a medical emergency.

Medical experts warn that meningitis symptoms include sudden fever, severe headache, neck stiffness, vomiting, sensitivity to light, confusion and seizures. Without prompt treatment, the disease can lead to death within hours or cause long-term complications such as hearing loss, brain damage or paralysis.

To contain the outbreak, the state government, in partnership with Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders), has established isolation centres at General Hospitals in Dogo Daji and Tambuwal, with separate wards for male, female and paediatric patients.

Abubakar noted that although only about 20 laboratory samples have tested positive so far, early treatment has improved recovery rates, with no recent deaths recorded since intensified response efforts began.

However, health workers say the outbreak is still active. At the Dogo Daji isolation centre, a nurse who spoke anonymously said 22 patients are currently receiving treatment, with new admissions replacing discharged patients daily.

“We are discharging recovered patients, but new cases keep coming in. Today alone, two patients were discharged and immediately replaced by new admissions,” he said, adding that rising cases may require additional wards.

He also confirmed that treatment at the facility is free, with patients receiving medication, meals and transport support.

Despite ongoing interventions, the centre has recorded two recent deaths, including a boy under five and another patient who died while being referred to the Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital.

Meanwhile, the Chief Medical Director of the Specialists Hospital, Sokoto, Dr. Attahiru Sokoto, said patients earlier received from Badon Barade in Wamakko LGA had all been treated and discharged, with no current admissions at the hospital.

Health authorities continue to urge residents to report symptoms early, seek prompt medical care and disregard misinformation, as efforts to control the spread of the disease intensify across the state.

Meningitis Outbreak Claims 33 In Sokoto is first published on The Whistler Newspaper

Senate President Godswill Akpabio on Wednesday raised concerns over the billing practices of DSTV in Nigeria, questioning why subscribers continue to lose their subscription days even when the service is not in use.

Speaking during plenary session, Akpabio said, “DSTV in South Africa, if you travel for one month, two months, three months, your card will not run.”

“Your money remains until you come and activate it. But in Nigeria, once you pay, if you travel for one week, two weeks, by the time you come back it has gone down,” he said.

He added, “So they are charging you on a daily basis even when it is not in use.”

The Senate President said the situation was unfair to Nigerians, especially families who travel for holidays only to return and find that their subscriptions had been exhausted.

Comparing it with electricity billing, Akpabio said, “The same way we are paying for power that we are not using. You go to communities, their transformer has stopped working one year ago, but the people are still getting bills on a monthly basis.”

He further stated, “The same way you’re not using DStv, you have travelled for holiday with your family, by the time you come back everything has been consumed, but it doesn’t happen in South Africa where they come from.”

Akpabio called on the appropriate communications committee chairman to invite DSTV for explanations, insisting that Nigerians should not be made to pay for services they are not using.

“Which chairman is in charge of communication, please, we need to invite DSTV I just remembered it,” he said.

Senate summons DSTV over billing controversy

Former Plateau Governor, Senator Simon Lalong has given reasons he relinquished his position as the leader of the All Progressives Congress, APC, in the state to his successor, Governor Caleb Mutfwang.

The senator representing Plateau South Senatorial district in the National Assembly who disclosed this in a chat with select journalists in Jos on Wednesday, said his decision was born out of his desire for the need to promote peace, unity, and stability within the party in the state.

Before the defection of Gov. Mutfwang from the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, to the APC in December 2025, Lalong, a former Director-General of the Tinubu Campaign Council during the 2023 general elections, was the undisputed leader of the APC in the state but with the incumbent’s defection to the ruling party, the leaders structure had to change and he automatically becomes the leader of the party in the state.

While responding to a question on why he agreed to let go of his leadership position, Lalong said the move was in line with the APC’s ideology of cohesion and collective progress.

Lalong, who also used the session to announce his decision to re-contest for a second term in the Senate shortly after collecting his nomination form, stressed that with Mutfwang’s defection to the APC, there was no reason for him to still hang on to the leadership position of the party.

“The governor indicated that he was coming back to the APC, and without any resistance, as was done in so many states, we accepted him,” the senator said.

“The PDP collapsed and governance came back to my party because I was responsible for bringing the APC to the Plateau. I was the leader and sole commander of the party, along with the likes of the late General Shagaya and others now of blessed memory. APC gave me a platform, and I became the governor of Plateau State.

“So, with the establishment of APC on the Plateau, I feel honoured to be regarded as the father of APC in the state, and I am honoured that people left their parties and came back to join me in my house.

“And it is only natural that when you see a guest, the governor, coming to join you with good intentions, you welcome him. Today, we have a very cordial relationship with the governor of the state.

“I feel honoured and dignified that Today, Plateau State is APC. Therefore, when Governor Mutfwang joined the APC, one of the first things I did to welcome him was to say, ‘I surrender the leadership to you,’ so that he could be comfortable knowing that the house he is entering has been fully handed over to him.

“And if you recall, on that day, the governor also replied and said to me, ‘Your Excellency, I am surprised that you have just surrendered this leadership to me. Do not think you are running away from me. You cannot run away from me. Both of us will run this party.’ That was his response,” Lalong stated.

He further stated that in every state, the governor naturally assumed leadership of the party and as such, he accepted the governor’s return without resistance because it was in the overall interest of the party, the state, and the country.

‘Why I relinquished Plateau APC leadership to Gov Mutfwang’ – Lalong

OPay, a leading fintech company in Nigeria, partnered with the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) at the Global Money Week 2026 Financial Literacy Fair and Exhibition held on Tuesday, 28th April 2026 at CBN’s headquarters in Abuja. The event, themed “Smart Money Talks,” brought together students from secondary schools across the Federal Capital Territory, including Doveland International School, Living Fountain International School, Government Day Secondary School, Wuse, and Government Science School, Maitama, among others, to promote financial awareness and responsible money management among young Nigerians.

Global Money Week is a worldwide awareness initiative designed to equip young people with the knowledge and skills needed to make sound financial decisions. The initiative ensures long-term economic stability by preparing the next generation for an increasingly digital and interconnected financial ecosystem.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Aisha Isa-Olatinwo, Director of Consumer Protection and Financial Inclusion, CBN, highlighted financial literacy as a cornerstone of national development. She noted that in today’s rapidly evolving financial landscape, financial literacy is no longer optional but essential for individuals, families, and the broader economy.

Also reinforcing this message, Nelson Amuwa, Head of Consumer Education and Evaluation Division, CBN, stated that the initiative is part of a broader effort to equip young people with the confidence to make informed financial decisions. He emphasised that encouraging open conversations about money is key to building a secure financial future.

Commenting on OPay’s participation, Chukwudinma Okafor, Chief Compliance Officer, OPay, said: “Our partnership with the Central Bank of Nigeria on Global Money Week reaffirms our strong alignment with regulatory priorities around consumer protection, financial literacy, and responsible financial services usage. At OPay, compliance goes beyond regulation; it is about building trust and ensuring that individuals, especially young people, are equipped with the right knowledge to engage safely and confidently in the financial system. Initiatives like this play a vital role in advancing financial inclusion and supporting the sustainable development of Nigeria’s digital economy.”

Paul Iwunwa, Senior Marketing Manager, OPay, also reaffirmed the company’s commitment to advancing financial inclusion through early education initiatives. He noted that OPay sees financial literacy as the foundation of true financial inclusion and by engaging students at this critical stage, OPay is not only helping to shape better money habits but also contributing to a more financially responsible and economically resilient future for Nigeria.

The Financial Literacy Fair and Exhibition featured engaging sessions that provided students with hands-on experience in money management and savings. Participants also had the opportunity to engage directly with OPay’s interactive booth, gaining exposure to innovative financial products tailored to support their financial journey.

OPay’s participation at the fair reinforces its commitment to supporting initiatives that advance financial inclusion, deepen consumer education, and promote responsible usage of digital financial services.

About OPay

OPay was established in 2018 as a leading fintech company in Nigeria with the mission to make financial services more inclusive through technology. The company offers a wide range of payment services, including money transfer, bill payment, card service, airtime and data purchase, and merchant payments, among others. Renowned for its fast and reliable network and strong security features that protect customer’s funds, OPay is licensed by the CBN and insured by the NDIC with the same insurance coverage as commercial banks.

OPay partners CBN to advance Youth Financial Literacy at Global Money Week 2026

The United States Central Command, CENTCOM, says its forces fired on and disabled an Iranian-flagged tanker around 9 a.m. ET Wednesday in the Gulf of Oman.

CENTCOM made this disclosure on Wednesday in a press release, stating that the empty tanker was attempting to sail to an Iranian port after repeated warnings.

“US Central Command, CENTCOM, forces observed M/T Hasna as it transited international waters enroute to an Iranian port on the Gulf of Oman. American forces issued multiple warnings and informed the Iranian-flagged vessel it was in violation of the U.S. blockade,” CENTCOM said in a statement.

According to CENTCOM, the shots hit the tanker’s rudder, disabling its movement.

DAILY POST recalls that it is not the first time US forces have fired on tankers attempting to bypass the blockade.

“The US blockade against ships attempting to enter or depart Iranian ports remains in full effect. CENTCOM forces continue to act deliberately and professionally to ensure compliance,” CENTCOM added.

US strikes Iranian tanker ‘attempting to violate blockade’

The Government of Ghana has formally petitioned the African Union, AU as the xenophobic attacks in South Africa continue to claim the lives of unsuspecting Africans.

In the petition, sighted by DAILY POST on Thursday, the government requested the disturbing development be placed on the agenda at the upcoming Mid-Year Coordination Meeting, which is expected to be attended by Heads of State and Government.

DAILY POST reports that the meeting has been scheduled to take place El Alamein, Egypt from June 24 through to 27.

“I have the honour, on behalf of the Government of the Republic of Ghana, to respectfully submit for inclusion on the agenda of the Eighth Mid-Year Coordination Meeting of the African Union, scheduled to take place from 24th to 27th June 2026, in El Alamein, Egypt, as a matter of urgent continental interest, the topic of Xenophobic Attacks in the Republic of South Africa against African Nationals”, the petition reads.

The government further stated that it remains deeply concerned by the recurrence of xenophobic incidents in South Africa, leading to the unfortunate loss of innocence lives.

Mr Ablakwa also pointed out that several investments of Africans residing in South Africa have been destroyed, stressing that the continued attack pose serious risk to the safety of many African nationals.

He said it is particularly troubling that manifestations of xenophobia, including violent attacks against fellow Africans, have persisted in recent years.

This development is especially concerning when viewed in light of the longstanding solidarity demonstrated by African states in support of the struggle against apartheid and South Africa’s subsequent democratic transformation, he added.

Mr Ablakwa stated that while fully acknowledging the sovereignty of the Republic of South Africa and its primary responsibility to protect all persons within its territory, the targeting of nationals from African countries presents a challenge to the shared principles of African solidarity, brotherhood, and continental unity to which all Member States of the African Union are committed.

Ghanaian Govt formally petitions African Union over xenophobic attacks in South Africa

The Commissioner of Police in Ogun State, Bode Ojajuni has cautioned students against involvement in cultism, drug abuse, examination malpractice, and other criminal behaviours, warning that such acts could jeopardize their future and societal stability.

Ojajuni gave the word of caution on Wednesday when he received students and lecturers from the University of Lagos (UNILAG), Akoka, at the Command Headquarters, Eleweran, Abeokuta.

A statement made available to DAILY POST by the command’s spokesperson, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, said the delegation, comprising lecturers and students of Geology and Geophysics, was led by Professor Akinmosin Adewale as part of a geological fieldwork excursion within Ogun State.

Babaseyi said the visit provided a platform for academic engagement and strengthened police–academia collaboration on youth development and public safety awareness.

In his remarks, the CP urged them to remain disciplined, focused, and future-oriented, emphasizing that education remains a critical pathway to personal success and national.

He reiterated that discipline, integrity, and hard work remain the foundation of lasting success.

Speaking earlier, Professor Adewale commended the leadership of the commissioner of police for sustained internal security efforts and enhanced community policing initiatives across the State.

He expressed appreciation for the warm reception accorded to the delegation, noting that exposure to security institutions remains vital in building civic responsibility among young scholars.

Also, the Deputy Commissioner of Police, Administration, DCP Ibrahim Abdul; Deputy Commissioner of Police, State Criminal Investigation Department, DCP Gbenga Adeoye; and Assistant Commissioner of Police, Administration, ACP Akinmoladun Olu Moore, emphasized the importance of lawful conduct, patriotism, and responsible citizenship.

They further encouraged the students to serve as partners in community safety and as ambassadors of peace within their academic environment.

Responding on behalf of the delegation, a student representative, Mr. Adeniyi Oluwatobi, expressed profound appreciation to the commissioner and his management team for the warm reception, mentorship, and impactful engagement.

Ogun CP meets UNILAG students, cautions against drug abuse, cultism

Kebbi State chapter of the Inter-Party Advisory Council, IPAC, has urged political parties yet to conduct congresses, as well as those that have concluded theirs, to ensure strict compliance with Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, guidelines and constitutional provisions ahead of party primaries.

The call was made in a statement on Wednesday by the Kebbi State IPAC Chairman, Faruku Garba, NATO, who stressed the need for transparent and credible congresses to strengthen internal democracy within political parties.

Garba said prompt, genuine, and impartial congresses serve as a “litmus test” for credible primary elections, noting that internal party democracy remains key to producing quality leadership.

According to him, “good leaders are produced through fair congresses,” adding that credible processes are essential tools political parties can use to achieve success in elections.

He warned that poorly conducted congresses often lead to litigation, which could jeopardise parties’ chances at the polls and create avoidable tensions within the democratic system.

Garba also urged all political parties in Kebbi State and across Nigeria to ensure their internal activities comply strictly with INEC laws and guidelines.

“We watch closely as events unfold in political party congresses, and we admonish them to ensure seamless congresses to avoid political rancour, or parties may risk being delisted for refusing to follow laid down rules provided in the constitution and INEC,” he said.

Kebbi IPAC tasks parties on strict adherence to INEC guidelines