Year: 2025

Senate didn’t embarrass Senator Sani over ‘harmonised’ definition — Akpabio

 

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has debunked reports suggesting that the upper legislative chamber embarrassed Senator Sani Musa (APC, Niger East) during a recent plenary session.

 

In a statement he personally signed on Friday in Abuja and titled “Clarification on Misleading Reports Regarding Senate Proceedings,” Akpabio described the online claims as false and misleading.

 

“My attention has been drawn to reports circulating on social media and blogs, especially Linda Ikeji’s Blog, alleging that Senator Sani Musa was ‘rubbished’ on the Senate floor for allegedly failing to define the word ‘harmonised.’

 

“This is completely untrue,” the Senate President said.

 

According to him, the incident being referenced was misrepresented and taken out of context.

He explained that when Senator Musa was called upon, Senator Abdul Ningi had raised a point of order that required immediate procedural attention in line with Senate rules.

 

“The session continued without any breach of decorum. Senator Musa was neither embarrassed nor unable to respond,” he clarified.

 

Akpabio further praised Musa’s contributions to the Senate, noting his leadership as Chairman of the Joint Committee on Finance and the Conference Committee that successfully harmonized the Tax Reform Bills — a legislative milestone acknowledged by both chambers and stakeholders.

 

“The Nigerian Senate operates on principles of respect, order, and integrity. While we welcome public engagement, we urge all media platforms to ensure their commentary is rooted in facts and not sensationalism,” he added.

 

The Senate President concluded by calling on media outlets to adhere to the ethics of responsible journalism in their coverage of National Assembly proceedings.

Eagles goalkeeper Nwabali’s parents for burial June 7 30th May 2025

 

Super Eagles goalkeeper, Stanley Nwabali, has announced the burial arrangements for his late parents, Chief Nwabali Godspower Onyekamu and Mrs. Grace Nwabali (née Mmai), describing the moment as one of unimaginable grief.

 

In a message shared alongside the burial poster on his Instagram on Friday, Nwabali expressed the depth of his pain.

 

“About time to put my dad and mom to rest. Something I never imagined doing so soon at this point of my life. Difficult to believe I will never set my eyes on you again.

 

“It’s a different kind of pain I never wish for my enemy. Thank you for everything,” he wrote.

 

According to the family announcement, the funeral activities will span three days, starting from Thursday, June 5, 2025, with a Service of Songs at 5pm at the late Chief’s residence on Osafu Lane, Okwuzi Egbema, Rivers State.

 

On Friday, June 6, the body of Late Mrs. Grace Nwabali will leave Gbegbe Hospital Mortuary, Omoku, to her father’s compound and then to her husband’s residence, where she will lie in state from 11am.

 

The final burial rites will be held on Saturday, June 7.

At 9am, the remains of Chief Nwabali Godpower will depart Gbegbe Hospital Mortuary to his maternal home, before being received by the Okwuzi Council of Chiefs at 10am.

 

By 11am, the body will lie in state at his residence, followed by internment and other funeral activities at 12 noon.

 

Reception and entertainment of guests will follow at CPS Okwuzi Egbema.

 

Nwabali passed away at the age of 72, while Mrs. Grace Nwabali was 63.

 

The family expressed gratitude to all well-wishers and invited friends and loved ones to honour their parents’ memory on June 6 and 7.

Meet Romanian ref István Kovács officiating PSG-Inter showdown

 

The UEFA Referees Committee named Romania’s István Kovács as the referee for the 2025 UEFA Champions League final between Paris Saint-Germain and Inter Milan, set for Saturday at the Munich Football Arena.

 

The match, kicking off at 21:00 CET, pits PSG’s quest for their first Champions League title against Inter’s bid for a fourth, and Kovács’ appointment brings both experience and scrutiny to the spotlight.

 

The 40-year-old, an international referee since 2010, will officiate his third UEFA club competition final, having previously taken charge of the 2024 UEFA Europa League final between Atalanta and Bayer Leverkusen in Dublin and the 2022 UEFA Europa Conference League final between Roma and Feyenoord in Tirana.

 

István Kovács has officiated seven Champions League matches this season, including the round of 16 second leg between Liverpool and PSG, where his performance was praised for its control.

 

The refereeing team for the final on Saturday includes an all-Romanian trio on the field, with Kovács joined by assistants Mihai Marica and Ferencz Tunyogi.

 

Portugal’s Joao Pedro Silva Pinheiro will serve as the fourth official, with Bruno Miguel Alves Jesus as the reserve assistant referee.

The video assistant referee team features Dennis Johan Higler from the Netherlands, supported by Romania’s Catalin Sorin Popa and Paulus van Boekel, also from the Netherlands.

 

Kovács’ selection has stirred some discussion due to past controversies.

 

During UEFA Euro 2024, his handling of the Czechia-Turkey match drew criticism, with some fans’ posts on X noting disputes over few of his decisions.

 

Additionally, his appointment over Polish referee Szymon Marciniak, who was a frontrunner but sidelined after a contentious performance in the Inter-Barcelona semifinal, has fuelled debate.

 

Barcelona’s complaints, including a formal request by midfielder Pedri for an investigation into Marciniak’s calls, led UEFA to prioritise Kovács to maintain the competition’s integrity, according to Tribuna.com.

Bolt driver shot dead in Bayelsa

 

The Bayelsa State Police Command has commenced investigations into the death of a Bolt driver at Samphino Junction in the Kpansia axis of Yenagoa, the state capital.

 

Punch Metro gathered that passersby discovered the lifeless body of the middle-aged driver on Friday morning inside his vehicle and alerted the police, who cordoned off the area.

 

This came barely a week after a 27-year-old graduate of the Federal University, Otuoke, Daniel Ayama, was killed by some assailants less than a kilometre away.

 

It is believed that the deceased was shot at a close range in a case of suspected assassination, as nothing is said to have been removed from his vehicle.

Reacting to the incident, the police spokesman in the state, Musa Mohammed, said a full-scale investigation was underway.

 

“We are working to gather all necessary intelligence. Forensic teams have been deployed to the scene and we are also liaising with the Bolt company to retrieve trip data that may help in tracking down the culprits,” Mohammed stated.

 

Meanwhile, members of the drivers’ union and other stakeholders have called on the police to expedite their investigations and ensure that those behind the murder are brought to justice.

Zulum offers scholarships to children of CJTF members killed in IED blast

 

Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, has promised scholarship for the children of eight Civilian Joint Task Force members who lost their lives when an improvised explosive device exploded along Dikwa-Marte Road in the state

 

Zulum announced this on Thursday, during a condolence visit to the families of the fallen heroes in Fezzan ward of the metropolis.

 

The eight members of the force were killed in an Improvised Explosive Device attack along the road on Tuesday.

While on the visit, the governor also announced an immediate assistance of N5 million to each of the bereaved families to cater to their basic needs.

 

“I want to announce an initial assistance of N5 million to be given to each of the family to take care of their immediate needs.

“Government of Borno State will also provide full scholarship to children of the deceased members of the CJTF.

 

“For those without children, we will extend support to other family members,” he said.

 

He described them as martyrs who made ultimate sacrifices in defence of their communities, assuring all that their bravery would never be forgotten.

 

Zulum prayed for the repose of their souls and urged their families to bear the loss with strength and fortitude.

 

The governor was accompanied on the sympathy visit by the deputy speaker of Borno State House of Assembly, Abdullahi Askira; the APC state chairman, Bello Ayuba; Permanent Secretary, Government House, Mustapha Ali Busuguma, among other government officials.

Aare Adetola Emmanuelking Conferred with First-Ever “Knight of Faith” Title by CAN South West Nigeria

 

 

Aare Adetola Emmanuelking Conferred with First-Ever “Knight of Faith” Title by CAN South West Nigeri

 

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), South West Nigeria, on Thursday, 22nd May 2025, officially conferred its first-ever “Knight of Faith” title upon renowned business mogul and philanthropist, Aare Adetola Emmanuelking, in recognition of his dedication to the Christian faith, nation-building, and exemplary leadership in business and community development.

 

The historic investiture, themed “Celebrating Distinction and Faithful Stewardship,” was held at the Garden of Faith, Abeokuta. The occasion also featured the induction of several eminent Nigerians as Distinguished Patrons of the association, including the Inspector General of Police, Dr. Kayode Egbetokun; the Deputy Comptroller General of Nigeria Customs, Barr. Olaniyi Alajogun; and legendary gospel music icon, Sir Evangelist Prof. Ebenezer Obey-Fabiyi (MFR).

 

The event was chaired by the CAN South West Chairman, Bishop Tunde Akin-Akinsanya, and graced by His Excellency Prince Dapo Abiodun, CON, Executive Governor of Ogun State, who serves as the Grand Patron of the association. The Governor was ably represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Hon. Tokunbo Talabi.

 

Also present were top dignitaries, including the Commissioner for Environment, Hon. Ola Oresanya; Commissioner of Police, Ogun State Command, CP Olanrewaju Ogunlowo; Royal Fathers, the President of the Christian Association of Nigeria, His Grace Most Rev’d (Dr.) Daniel Chukwudumebi Okoh; several CAN State Chairmen, and other influential figures from across the country.

 

The spiritually charged event featured soul-lifting gospel music performances, intercessory prayers, official decoration of all awardees, and a special empowerment program. In a remarkable gesture of generosity, Aare Adetola Emmanuelking donated a plot of land in one of Adron Homes’ prestigious estates to the winner of the empowerment program, emphasizing his longstanding commitment to economic empowerment and community transformation.

 

In his acceptance speech, Aare Emmanuelking expressed profound humility and gratitude for the honour, dedicating it to God and the entire body of Christ. He emphasized that the conferment was a divine mandate to do more.

 

“This is a divine call, not just to me but to every Christian in leadership,” he said. “I charge every believer to uphold the values of our faith, integrity, love, excellence, and service. In these trying times, the world needs more light-bearers. Let us not shrink our influence, but shine boldly for Christ.”

 

He further urged fellow Christian brethren to remain unshaken in their commitment to godly principles and to be intentional in advancing the cause of the Kingdom in every sector of society.

 

The “Knight of Faith” sash, unveiled during the ceremony, now stands as a lasting symbol of spiritual distinction and kingdom stewardship. This momentous event marks a significant chapter in faith-based leadership recognition and affirms CAN South West’s mission to celebrate lives that embody Christ-like values and contribute meaningfully to national development.

Alexander-Arnold joins Real Madrid on six-year deal

 

Real Madrid have officially announced the signing of England international Trent Alexander-Arnold from Liverpool on a six-year contract.

 

The agreement, reached between both clubs, will see the 26-year-old defender remain with the Spanish side from June 1, 2025, to June 30, 2031.

 

In an official statement released by the club on Frivia via its site, Real Madrid confirmed, “Real Madrid C.F. and Liverpool FC have reached an agreement for Trent Alexander-Arnold, who will be linked to our club for the next six seasons.”

 

Alexander-Arnold arrives at the Santiago Bernabéu after a highly successful spell with Liverpool, where he won nine major trophies. His honours with the Reds include one UEFA Champions League, one FIFA Club World Cup, one UEFA Super Cup, two Premier League titles, one FA Cup, two EFL Cups, and one FA Community Shield.

A product of Liverpool’s academy, Alexander-Arnold has spent his entire professional career at Anfield. He made his senior debut for the England national team in 2018 and has represented the Three Lions at the 2018 and 2022 FIFA World Cups, as well as the UEFA Euro 2024 tournament.

 

On the individual front, he has been recognised globally for his performances. He was named in the FIFA FIFPro World 11 in 2020, included twice in the UEFA Champions League Team of the Season (2018/19 and 2021/22), and selected three times in the Premier League Team of the Season (2018/19, 2019/20, and 2021/22).

 

In addition, he was voted the Premier League’s Young Player of the Season for 2019/20.

 

Alexander-Arnold is expected to feature for Real Madrid in the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup, which will be held in the United States beginning June 14.

France to ban smoking in public July 1

 

France will ban smoking in outdoor areas where children are likely to be present, starting July 1, 2025. This includes beaches, parks, bus stops, school entrances, and sports venues.

 

Health and Family Minister, Catherine Vautrin, made this known on Thursday, May 29.

 

“Tobacco must disappear where there are children.

 

“The freedom to smoke stops where children’s right to breathe clean air starts,” Vautrin told Ouest-France newspaper.

 

The rule will also stop students from smoking in front of schools. Anyone who breaks the rule may be fined up to €135 ($154).

However, the ban does not apply to France’s famous outdoor cafe terraces or to electronic cigarettes.

 

France already bans smoking in many public places like workplaces, airports, train stations, and playgrounds.

 

Anti-smoking groups have long called for wider restrictions.

 

According to the World Health Organisation, about 35 per cent of France’s population smokes—more than the average in Europe (25 per cent) and around the world (21 per cent).

NAF airstrikes kill ‘scores’ of terrorists in Borno

 

The Nigerian Air Force said airstrikes from its operatives with Operation Hadin Kai have killed scores of terrorists and destroyed their stronghold in Borno State.

 

The service air mission, which was carried out in the early hours of Friday, was conducted on fleeing Boko Haram elements in Bita, a known insurgent enclave in the North-East.

 

According to a statement on Friday, by the Director of Public Relations and Information at the NAF Headquarters, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the coordinated air assault marks a substantial milestone in efforts to degrade the operational capacity of the terrorists threatening national security in the region.

 

The statement read, “The Nigerian Air Force through the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai, has recorded a major operational success against Boko Haram terrorists.

“In the early hours of today, NAF combat aircraft carried out precision airstrikes on fleeing terrorists in Bita, Borno State, neutralising scores of insurgents in what has been described as one of the most decisive blows against the group in recent times.

 

“The highly coordinated operation, executed under the cover of darkness, represents a major leap in ongoing efforts to dismantle the operational capabilities of terrorist elements undermining national security in the North East. Ground forces have since commenced clearance and exploitation operations to consolidate on the gains achieved from the successful air strikes.

 

“The NAF wishes to reassure Nigerians of its unwavering commitment to defending the nation’s territorial integrity and protecting law-abiding citizens. All necessary measures are being taken to ensure that terrorist elements have no safe haven anywhere within the country.”

NGF mourns Niger flood victims

 

The Nigeria Governors’ Forum has commiserated with the Niger State Government on the flood, which has claimed many lives in the Mokwa Local Government Area of the state.

 

In a statement signed by the NGF chairman, AbdulRaman AbdulRazaq, on Friday, the forum said that it was shocked by the magnitude of the flood, which has claimed many lives and property in the community.

 

However, it commiserated with Governor Usman Bago, the government, and the people of the state for the loss of lives and property.

 

It would be recalled that no fewer than 21 people had died and property worth millions of Naira had been damaged by the flood which ravaged Mokwa in the state.

 

AbdulRazaq, who is the governor of Kwara State, wrote, “The Nigeria Governors’ Forum stands in solidarity with the government and people of Niger State on the devastating flood that has wreaked huge havoc in Mokwa town of the state.

“We are shocked by the magnitude of the flooding, which has resulted in the loss of lives and properties in the community.

 

“We sincerely commiserate with the affected families and express our support to the state government at this difficult time.

 

“We also commend the interventions of the Niger State Government and its coordination with the emergency responders to support the victims of this disaster.

 

“This flood again reminds us of the stark realities of climate change and the accompanying effects on how we live. We commit ourselves as leaders of our people to continue to work with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) to not only help our people cope with this global challenge but also to strengthen mitigative actions and relief institutions.

 

“We pray God to console families who have lost loved ones and properties in the Mokwa incident, and we urge citizens to support the government’s efforts to mitigate the impacts of climate change and to cooperate with agencies working to assist those in urgent need at this time.”

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