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November 14, 2025

News, Politics

Makinde 2027 Posters Flood Ibadan as PDP Convention Begins

Ibadan buzzed with political energy on Friday as striking banners projecting Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, as a potential 2027 presidential contender took over the surroundings of the Adamasingba Stadium—the venue of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) national convention scheduled for November 15–16.

Delegates arriving at the stadium were met by a series of boldly designed posters and banners carrying Makinde’s image and campaign-style messages. One banner, attributed to a group called Lana Fun Seyi, proclaimed: “Seyi Makinde for President.” Another, credited to Fapetu Stephen from Ido Local Government, assured passersby: “Relax, Seyi Makinde will fix Nigeria 2027.”

The displays sparked renewed conversations among party faithful and political observers, many of whom had followed months of speculation about the governor’s next political move. Although Makinde has long been rumored to be weighing a presidential bid, he has maintained that any declaration would come “at the appropriate time.” He has repeatedly dismissed earlier assumptions as mere “unsolicited commentary,” insisting that when he is ready to speak, he will do so without prompting.

Beyond the Makinde-themed banners, the stadium and its environs were lit up with campaign materials for other PDP aspirants seeking positions in the next National Working Committee (NWC).

Posters for former Minister of Special Duties, Kabiru Turaki, who is vying for the national chairmanship, were prominently displayed. Supporters of ex–Deputy National Chairman, Taofeek Arapaja, also rolled out large posters marketing his bid for the position of National Secretary.

The mix of colour, campaign slogans and support-group branding created a festival-like backdrop as thousands of delegates poured into Ibadan for what is set to be a decisive gathering.

Also Read: Paystack Suspends CTO Ezra Olubi as Company Launches Probe Into Misconduct Allegations

The convention will usher in a new NWC responsible for repositioning the PDP as it gears up for the 2027 general elections.

With the presidential election cycle inching closer, Friday’s banner blitz added fresh intrigue to the unfolding political dynamics—especially around Governor Makinde, whose silence on 2027 continues to fuel anticipation both within and outside the PDP.

News, Trending

U.S. Lawmakers Clash Over Rising Fears for Christians in Nigeria as Trump Restores CPC Status

Concerns over the safety of Christians in Nigeria resurfaced sharply on Friday as U.S. Congresswoman Nancy Mace issued a stark warning about what she described as escalating assaults on religious minorities in the West African nation.

Mace, a Republican representing South Carolina, said Nigeria has become “one of the deadliest places on earth for Christians,” accusing Washington of failing to respond adequately.

Mace Slams Biden Administration for Policy Shift

In her statement released on November 14, 2025, Mace criticized the Biden administration for removing Nigeria from the U.S. Country of Particular Concern (CPC) list—an official designation reserved for nations that tolerate or commit severe violations of religious freedom.

“President Biden removed Nigeria from the CPC list, and that decision continues to trouble me,” she said, arguing that the security situation has deteriorated since the reversal.

She contrasted the administration’s stance with that of former President Donald Trump, praising him for what she called a more assertive defense of global religious liberty.

“President Trump is working to correct those missteps. 45/47 remains one of the most consequential presidents in American history,” she added.

Trump Reinstates Nigeria as CPC, Issues Stark Warning

Her comments landed just hours after Trump, now seeking to reestablish his foreign policy doctrines, announced via Truth Social that he had formally restored Nigeria to the CPC list.

Trump said Christianity in Nigeria faces an “existential threat,” blaming “radical Islamist militants” for mass killings.

He went further, warning that the U.S. could consider military action if attacks on Christians continue.

“I am hereby making Nigeria a COUNTRY OF PARTICULAR CONCERN — but that is only the beginning,” Trump wrote, adding that the United States “may have to step in” should the violence persist.

Huizenga: Trump’s Words are Frustration, Not a War Plan

Despite Trump’s forceful rhetoric, Republican Congressman Bill Huizenga urged caution, telling Arise News that talk of military intervention should not be taken literally.

“I do not see military action in Nigeria as a priority,” Huizenga said. “I don’t envision a surprise attack, nor do I believe a military response is on the table.”

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Instead, he suggested that Trump’s comments were motivated by frustration over ongoing violence rather than any concrete plan for force.

Sanctions, Not Soldiers

Huizenga believes Trump, known for unpredictable diplomatic maneuvers but reluctant to enter new wars, is more likely to apply economic pressure.

“Targeted sanctions on individuals and groups fueling violence would be the most effective first step,” he said.

According to him, sanctions could disrupt the financial pipelines enabling extremist networks.

“Cutting off access to money and international travel can weaken the operations of those responsible. We still don’t fully know who is bankrolling these attacks, but economic pressure will have an impact,” he added.

Broader Debate Renewed in Washington

The contrasting views from Mace and Huizenga reflect a growing debate in Washington about how the U.S. should respond to reports of worsening religious persecution in Nigeria.

As Trump revives his foreign policy agenda, the issue is once again gaining prominence—raising questions about how far the U.S. might go in addressing religious freedoms abroad.

CNG: FG Confirms No Subsidy As Nigerians Face Fresh Price Hike
Business, News, Politics

Marketers Slash Pump Prices After Federal Government Halts Proposed Fuel Import Tax

Fuel prices across Nigeria have begun to ease after the Federal Government halted plans to introduce a 15 per cent import duty on Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) and diesel.

The decision has triggered immediate retail price reductions at major filling stations, offering relief to motorists already grappling with high transportation costs.

The suspension was confirmed on Thursday in a statement issued by the Nigerian Midstream and Downstream Petroleum Regulatory Authority (NMDPRA).

The agency’s Director of Public Affairs, George Ene-Ita, assured the public that the move was necessary to stabilise the market ahead of the busy end-of-year period. He also stressed that the country has sufficient fuel reserves to meet the surge in holiday demand.

The NMDPRA further cautioned Nigerians against panic buying or stockpiling products, warning that such behaviour could artificially inflate prices despite healthy nationwide supply.

A market sweep shows that several prominent fuel retailers reacted swiftly to the policy change. Rainoil currently dispenses petrol at ₦910 per litre, while Bovas sells at ₦908, and both NIPCO and Matrix are offering ₦910 and ₦915 respectively—down from previous averages of about ₦955.

Chinedu Ukadike, spokesperson for the Independent Petroleum Marketers Association of Nigeria (IPMAN), confirmed in an interview that the suspended tariff has eased pressure on operating costs for marketers.

“Yes, petrol prices will drop further. The tension caused by the proposed 15 per cent import duty has reduced significantly. The suspension has restored confidence in the pricing framework,” Ukadike said.

Analysts note that the now-paused tax regime would have given the Dangote Refinery a pricing edge in the downstream market, likely driving pump prices even higher if implemented.

Earlier this month, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) revised its pump price in the capital city, adjusting PMS to ₦945 per litre in Abuja.

Meanwhile, depot prices appear stable as suppliers maintain uniformity. Dangote Refinery currently sells PMS at ₦856, Aiteo at ₦854, while NIPCO and Pinnacle are pricing at ₦858 per litre.

Also Read: PDP Venue 60% Ready as Ibadan Prepares for National Convention

With the duty suspension in effect, industry experts expect moderate price reductions to continue in the coming days, barring any supply disruptions or unforeseen market shocks.

News, Sports, Trending

2026 World Cup: Full List Of Teams Already Qualified

The road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup has never felt quite like this—wide, unpredictable, and crackling with drama from every corner of the footballing world.

With the tournament expanding to 48 teams and set to unfold across the sprawling stadiums of Canada, Mexico, and the United States, the energy is different this time.

It’s more frantic, more ruthless, and far more cinematic.

On Thursday, that energy reached a new peak.

From tense nights in Rabat to triumphant celebrations in Asia, from Europe’s heavyweights quietly locking in their spots to Oceania’s lone warrior stepping forward—the global race has turned into a symphony of last-minute goals, heartbreaks, punch-the-air victories, and nations daring to dream.

And with 27 teams now officially booked for the grand spectacle, the stage is taking shape.

But nowhere is the music louder—and the stakes higher—than in Africa, where Nigeria and DR Congo are now set for a colossal playoff that promises sparks, sweat, and spectacle.

Here’s how the qualification landscape is unfolding.

The Co-Hosts: Three Seats Guaranteed, No Questions Asked

The 2026 World Cup hosts simply stepped into the tournament without breaking a sweat—rules of privilege.

Canada

Mexico

United States

Three giants of North America, all gearing up to welcome the world.

Africa’s March to the World Stage

The African qualifiers have produced pure theatre. From tactical masterclasses to goalkeeping heroics, the continent’s journey has been nothing short of gripping.

Confirmed African qualifiers so far:

Algeria

Cape Verde

Egypt

Ghana

Ivory Coast

Morocco

Senegal

South Africa

Tunisia

But the story isn’t finished—not even close.

Because the continent now braces for a blockbuster: Nigeria vs DR Congo, one match for one golden ticket.

More on that in a moment.

Asia Sends a Strong Squad to North America

The Asian qualifiers have looked remarkably decisive, producing eight nations who stamped their tickets early with conviction:

Australia

Iran

Japan

Jordan

Qatar

Saudi Arabia

South Korea

Uzbekistan

A balanced mix of tradition, underdog energy, and rising football cultures.

Europe: Slow and Steady, But the Big Ones Are In

UEFA’s marathon qualification journey is still unfolding, but two giants have already crossed the finish line:

England

France

Two teams with heavy expectations, both aiming to go further than ever before.

Oceania: One Flag, One Hope

In classic OFC fashion, there is only one representative this cycle—and it’s the familiar face:

New Zealand

Calm, composed, and ready for the global stage once again.

South America: The Heavy Hitters Step Forward

The CONMEBOL qualifiers rarely disappoint, and this season is no exception.

The giants are marching through as expected:

Argentina

Brazil

Colombia

Ecuador

Paraguay

Uruguay

Football royalty, one and all.

Africa’s Blockbuster: Nigeria vs DR Congo Set for a Fight to the Finish

And now—the part of the story dripping with tension, adrenaline, and edge-of-your-seat suspense.

DR Congo’s Last-Minute Thunderbolt

In Rabat, the Leopards had looked destined for extra time against Cameroon.

Also Read: PDP Delegates Storm Ibadan as Convention Holds Despite Conflicting Court Orders

The match was tense, tight, and suffocating. Every pass felt like a coin toss.

Then, in the first minute of stoppage time, captain Chancel Mbemba rose above the noise.

A perfectly delivered corner from Brian Cipenga.

A tiny pocket of space nobody had seen.

A guided finish that felt almost calm in the chaos.

And just like that—Cameroon, five-time African champions, were sent tumbling out, and DR Congo roared into the playoff final.

Nigeria’s Earlier Firestorm

Before that, the Super Eagles had already made a statement of their own—a commanding 4-1 win over Gabon at the Moulay Hassan Stadium.

Sharp, clinical, purposeful.

Nigeria looked like a nation refusing to miss another World Cup.

Now Everything Comes Down to Sunday

One match.

Two proud nations.

One ticket to the world’s greatest football stage.

As qualification continues across continents, this Sunday’s duel promises to be one of the most electrifying African fixtures in recent years.

The world is watching.

And the road to the 2026 World Cup has never felt more alive.

News, Technology, Trending

Paystack Suspends CTO Ezra Olubi as Company Launches Probe Into Misconduct Allegations

Paystack, the Nigerian fintech unicorn acquired by Stripe, has placed its Co-founder and Chief Technology Officer, Ezra Olubi, on immediate suspension following the emergence of sexual-misconduct allegations circulating online.

The controversy intensified earlier in the week when decade-old tweets allegedly authored by Olubi resurfaced on social media, prompting widespread criticism.

A Nigerian tech publication later compiled and republished several of the posts, many of which contained sexually suggestive remarks and inappropriate references to colleagues. Some posts also raised concerns due to language interpreted as referencing minors.

In a statement issued on Thursday, Paystack confirmed that Olubi has been relieved of all operational responsibilities while the company conducts a formal investigation.

“Paystack is aware of the allegations involving our co-founder, Ezra Olubi. We take matters of this nature extremely seriously. Effective immediately, Ezra has been suspended from all duties and responsibilities pending the outcome of a formal investigation,” the company announced.

Paystack added that it would refrain from sharing additional details until its review is completed.

The situation escalated quickly on social media as users circulated screenshots of tweets dated between 2009 and 2013.

One 2011 tweet referenced inappropriate conduct toward a coworker, while another post mentioned wanting to photograph a colleague’s body. The online backlash urged both Paystack and Stripe to respond.

Olubi, who co-founded Paystack with CEO Shola Akinlade in 2015, helped steer the startup from its early beginnings into one of Africa’s most prominent fintech success stories.

The company’s meteoric rise eventually led to its acquisition by global payments giant Stripe in 2020, in a deal reportedly worth over $200 million.

Also Read: PDP Venue 60% Ready as Ibadan Prepares for National Convention

As the internal inquiry proceeds, industry observers say the outcome could have significant implications for Paystack’s leadership dynamics and corporate culture.

PDP Turmoil in Akwa Ibom: Security Forces Take Over Secretariat as Leadership War Escalates
News, Politics, Trending

PDP Venue 60% Ready as Ibadan Prepares for National Convention

Final preparations for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) National Convention intensified on Thursday, with officials of the Venue Sub-Committee confirming that arrangements in Ibadan, Oyo State, were advancing smoothly.

During an on-site assessment at the convention ground, the Secretary of the Venue Sub-Committee and member representing Ibadan North West/South West Federal Constituency, Olajide Stanley, told The Punch that the physical setup had reached a major milestone.

“Take a look around—stages are already taking shape, party colours are up, branding is ongoing. Everything is moving according to plan,” he said, projecting confidence ahead of Friday’s opening.

Stanley, who toured the venue alongside Oyo State Deputy Governor, Bayo Lawal, estimated that the venue was “about 60 percent ready,” affirming that the committee was fully committed to delivering a seamless convention under the supervision of Governor Seyi Makinde.

“We’re excited about the progress so far. The leadership of Governor Makinde has been instrumental, and the team is on track. We are ready,” he noted.

However, he acknowledged that logistics had been the biggest challenge, particularly the traffic congestion along the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway as thousands of delegates and support staff head into the city.

“With nearly 6,000 people expected in Ibadan for the convention, the expressway is naturally tight. Heavy trucks transporting stage and sound equipment have added to the pressure,” he explained.

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Despite the delays, Stanley insisted that the committee remained unfazed and confident.

“These are normal logistical hiccups for an event of this size. Overall, we are ready,” he reiterated.

PDP Turmoil in Akwa Ibom: Security Forces Take Over Secretariat as Leadership War Escalates
News, Politics, Trending

PDP Delegates Storm Ibadan as Convention Holds Despite Conflicting Court Orders

Despite a swirl of conflicting court pronouncements threatening to derail the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) planned national convention, the city of Ibadan, Oyo State, has continued to fill up with delegates and senior party figures, signalling that preparations for Saturday’s event remain firmly on course.

By Thursday, the PDP National Vice Chairman (South-West), Kamorudeen Ajisafe, confirmed that the turnout from across the country had already met the constitutional benchmark required to proceed with the convention.

“We have secured the participation of delegates from no fewer than two-thirds of the states,” Ajisafe told The Punch, stressing that the threshold satisfies the party’s rules for a valid national gathering.

According to him, “Delegates began arriving as early as Wednesday. We have state chairmen, stakeholders, and representatives from across the country already on ground. Even if all 36 states do not make it, two-thirds is more than enough.”

Two members of the party from the Federal Capital Territory also said they were in Ibadan by midday on Wednesday, further confirming the growing influx.

Conflicting Court Orders, But Party Leaders Unshaken

The lead-up to the November 15 and 16 convention has been dogged by a string of contradictory injunctions issued by courts in Abuja and Ibadan. But Ajisafe insisted the legal back-and-forth does not invalidate the event.

“When courts of equal jurisdiction issue conflicting rulings, none of them becomes binding,” he explained. “Such decisions are merely persuasive until a superior court clarifies the matter. Until then, the convention goes on.”

He maintained that only the appellate court could ultimately determine the legitimacy of the process.

INEC, Security Agencies Expected On Ground

Ajisafe also dispelled rumours that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) might boycott the convention due to the legal disputes.

“INEC will attend,” he said confidently. “We complied with every requirement of the Electoral Act. We issued the mandatory 21-day notice and held our NEC meeting afterwards. Nothing is out of order.”

When asked about security arrangements, he noted that law-enforcement agencies were aware of their constitutional duties and were expected to provide safety and order throughout the exercise.

“They may come, they may not,” he said, “but they are obligated to secure lives, even at protests. For an event of this magnitude, they know their responsibilities.”

Saraki’s Caretaker Proposal Rejected

Reacting to former Senate President Bukola Saraki’s suggestion that a caretaker committee be set up to steer the party through the ongoing disputes, Ajisafe cautioned that such a move could worsen internal instability.

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“Forming a caretaker committee now would only deepen the crisis,” he argued. “If anything, the convention itself should decide whether that option is necessary going forward.”

With the stakes rising and legal tensions unresolved, the PDP appears determined to push ahead — making Saturday’s convention a decisive moment for a party grappling with both internal strife and the pressure to present a united front ahead of future political contests.

Entertainment, News, Trending

Alleged Medical Report on Regina Daniels Is Fake, Serenity Royal Hospital Says

Serenity Royal Hospital, an Abuja-based mental health and rehabilitation centre, has distanced itself from a document circulating online that allegedly details the medical condition of Nollywood star, Regina Daniels.

The report, which surfaced on various platforms and was said to have been obtained by BluePrint, claimed the actress tested positive for multiple substances—including cocaine, marijuana, morphine, opiates, and alcohol. It further alleged that the hospital’s psychological emergency team was called to the home of her husband, Ned Nwoko, on September 23, after she reportedly went nearly two days without sleep and appeared highly agitated.

According to the purported document, Regina was described as showing signs of aggression, irritability and an “incongruent affect,” with her mood reportedly shifting between elation and evasiveness.

It also claimed that her supposed detoxification process had been difficult because she allegedly retained access to psychoactive substances.

However, Serenity Royal Hospital has now issued a firm disclaimer, insisting the document making the rounds did not originate from the facility.

In an official statement released via Instagram, the hospital said:

“Our attention has been drawn to a post on an alleged mid-term home detox report being circulated online in the name of Serenity Royal Hospital with respect to Mrs. Nwoko Regina.

We wish to state clearly that the publication and circulation of the said post containing classified information did not emanate from us and respectfully request the public to disregard the same.

We remain committed to high-standard medical practice with a huge commitment to ensuring medical confidentiality.”

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The hospital reiterated that it upholds strict confidentiality protocols and would never release private patient information to the public.

As of now, neither Regina Daniels nor her family has issued a public response to the circulating claims.

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