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A chieftain of the African Democratic Congress, ADC, Dele Momodu has disowned a presidential campaign poster of him as running mate to Atiku Abubakar.

Momodu described the presidential campaign poster as a joke designed to distract the ADC.

The poster tagged AtiDele 2027 showed Atiku as president while Momodu as running mate.

Reacting, Momodu assured his followers that he’s not running for the presidency.

Posting on X, the former presidential candidate said he would support ADC leaders because they are competent.

He wrote: “Bob Dee, Is this real? When I first received this poster from a friend, I dismissed it as a joke designed to distract us.

“But I’m now being bombarded with a deluge of this unsolicited message.

“As such, I will be most grateful if my friends and party members can do me the honor of ignoring this joke.

“I’m not running for any race again. I’m interested in humbly supporting the coalition of political parties, to work together and oust the incompetent APC government that has viciously thrown our Democracy into apparent chaos.

“There are more than enough leaders in my party, ADC, more competent than me. I will humbly support any of them, when our candidates emerge.”

ADC: I’m not contesting – Dele Momodu disowns VP presidential campaign poster with Atiku

OPay, a leading fintech company in Nigeria, recently signed Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with four additional tertiary institutions in the country: Benue State Polytechnic, Ugbokolo, Benue State; Kogi State Polytechnic, Lokoja, Kogi State; Montgomery Polytechnic, Ikere Ekiti, Ekiti State; and Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu Alike Ikwo, Ebonyi State. This expansion is in line with the brand’s ongoing commitment to support academic excellence and empower the next generation of Nigerian leaders, bringing the total number of partner institutions to 24 nationwide.

Under the terms of the ₦1.2 billion 10-year partnership, OPay will award scholarships valued at ₦300,000 each to 20 students per tertiary institution annually. The scholarship is need-based, designed to support high-performing students from financially disadvantaged backgrounds. Over the duration of the partnership, this commitment is expected to impact hundreds of students.

Since its launch, the scholarship initiative has continued to grow, showing OPay’s long-term commitment to education and youth empowerment in Nigeria. By adding four more tertiary institutions to the scholarship programme, the brand is intentionally broadening its reach to more states and campuses, ensuring more students have the support they need to succeed.

Speaking on the MoU signing, Itoro Udo, the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Manager, OPay, said: “Education is one of the most powerful tools for changing a life, and we believe every student deserves a fair shot at it, irrespective of their background. Through this partnership, OPay is investing in students who have the drive but need the support. We are proud to stand with them and to keep expanding this commitment across more institutions and more communities.”

OPay remains committed to building a Nigeria where access to financial services and education is consistent and inclusive. By scaling its scholarship initiatives and partnerships, OPay is expanding opportunities for students across the country.

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 signs new MoUs with 4 more schools, expands access to N1.2 billion 10-year scholarship programme

 

Tragedy struck in Lagos after 17-year-old Thompson Adams Omokafe was kidnapped and killed by two suspects identified as his friends 

They are Elijah Emmanuel, 23, and Tony Ogenata, 21.

The suspects reportedly lured the teenager to an apartment in Awoyaya, Ibeju-Lekki, where he was strangled before his body was dumped in a canal.

They were later arrested in Ikorodu after reportedly demanding ransom from the victim’s family.

The heartbreaking incident has sparked calls for justice and greater awareness on youth-related crimes.

The Tin-Can Island Command of the Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, has intercepted a large shipment of illegal drugs with an estimated street value of N18.96 billion at a Lagos port, uncovering thousands of cannabis packages hidden inside imported vehicles.

The operation, carried out under the supervision of the Customs Area Controller, Frank Onyeka, followed a coordinated intelligence-led effort involving the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA.

Briefing journalists on Thursday while formally handing over the seized items, Onyeka explained that the container, numbered HAMU 429961 and shipped from Canada, was falsely declared as carrying only used vehicles.

He said acting on credible intelligence, officers subjected the container to a full physical examination, which led to the discovery of 185 jumbo bags of cannabis carefully concealed within two vehicles.

“Acting on credible intelligence, our officers conducted a 100 per cent physical examination of the container and discovered 185 jumbo bags of cannabis concealed within two imported vehicles,” he stated.

According to him, the illicit substances were hidden inside a 2010 Toyota Camry and a 2023 Chevrolet, in what he described as a deliberate attempt to evade detection.

A detailed count, he added, revealed 9,450 packages of cannabis weighing 4,729 kilograms, with an estimated street value of N18.96 billion.

Onyeka described the interception as a significant operational success, crediting it to improved intelligence gathering, professionalism among officers, and strengthened collaboration between security agencies.

“This significant seizure demonstrates the strength of our intelligence-driven operations and the synergy between the Nigeria Customs Service and sister agencies, particularly the NDLEA,” he said.

He further noted that the seizure came shortly after a formal cooperation agreement between the NCS and NDLEA aimed at strengthening joint efforts against drug trafficking and other transnational crimes.

“As part of the agreement signed on April 27, 2026, both agencies are committed to enhanced intelligence sharing, joint operations and the development of coordinated operational guidelines,” he explained.

According to him, a standing inter-agency committee has also been set up, with its headquarters located at the NDLEA headquarters in Abuja, to improve coordination and operational efficiency.

The Customs chief confirmed that the intercepted drugs had been handed over to the NDLEA for further investigation and prosecution in line with its statutory responsibilities.

“Today, we hand over these illicit drugs to the NDLEA in line with their statutory mandate for further investigation and prosecution,” he said.

Onyeka also issued a strong warning to smugglers and criminal networks, stressing that enforcement agencies remain vigilant and fully prepared to dismantle illicit trade routes.

“Let me send a clear message to all smugglers and criminal elements: the Nigeria Customs Service, in collaboration with its partners, is fully prepared to detect, intercept and prosecute all forms of illicit trade. There will be no safe haven for saboteurs,” he warned.

He expressed appreciation to the Comptroller-General of Customs for leadership support, as well as to the NDLEA and other partner agencies for sustained cooperation. He also acknowledged the media for its role in public enlightenment.

Onyeka reaffirmed the command’s commitment to intelligence-driven enforcement and tighter port security to curb smuggling activities.

“The command remains resolute in deploying intelligence-driven strategies and robust enforcement measures to secure our ports and borders,” he added.

Customs intercepts N18.96bn cannabis hidden in imported vehicles at Lagos port

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