Rev. Joseph Hayab, Chairman of the Northern Christian Association (NCA), has said President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima secured victory in the 2023 general elections with support from Nigerians across religious lines, not Muslims alone. Hayab made the remark while reacting to comments by Islamic cleric, Sheikh Sani Yahaya Jingir, who had defended Tinubu’s Muslim-Muslim ticket ahead of the 2027 elections and argued that Muslims should not apologise for supporting candidates of their faith because of their population and popularity. In a viral video, Jingir described Christians as “infidels” and urged Muslims to unite and use their numerical strength to pursue their political interests. Speaking on Channels Television on Monday, Hayab said the comments were unacceptable, arguing that the 2023 presidential election showed that the Tinubu-Shettima ticket received support from Christian-majority states and communities. “Will you tell me that the current Muslim Muslim ticket that you claim to have put was only elected by Muslims? No, sir. I can count states that are mostly Christian. The man won in those states,” he said. He said the Muslim-Muslim ticket had raised concerns among Christians, noting that they had advised that there should be a balance for fairness. “We only wanted understanding and togetherness, as enshrined in our Constitution,” Hayab said. Hayab also criticised Jingir’s description of Christians as “infidels”, saying such language was unacceptable when addressing fellow Nigerians because of their faith. “If you respect me, you do not come out publicly and make such a derogatory statement against me, against my faith, just for politics. “It is no longer politics. It is the reality that has been going on on the ground,” he said. The NCA chairman said Jingir’s comments had also brought into the open what Christians in the North had experienced for years but were often dismissed whenever concerns were raised about persecution, marginalisation and religious dominance. He said it was worrisome that the Islamic cleric made the statement in the presence of political leaders who did not immediately reject or rebuke him but were instead seen cheering him. ‘Nigeria’s pretence over allegations of persecution and discrimination against Christians had finally come to an end.” According to him, “There is always a day when you will no longer pretend. We have been living in pretence in Nigeria, lying to ourselves that we are together, lying to each other that there is unity and lying to each other that we are co-citizens. “But for us as Christians in the North, we know these preachers have always been there for all these decades. So, I think Sheikh Jingir just found an opportunity to open up what has been happening in secret,” Hayab said. “The man did not just say it in his room. The man said it in the presence of three governors, and they were all smiling. “An action that would have been frowned upon, an action that would have been rebuked, an action that would have been rejected instantly,” he said. “Some months ago, we had controversy in this Nigerian debate around whether Christian genocide is happening and whether Christians have been persecuted. Many people said, ‘No, that is not true.’ “Today, Nigerians do not need to ask another question unless you want to pretend. The pretence has ended. We can see it clearly. We can hear it clearly,” he said. He challenged the governors at the gathering, the Federal Government and politicians being promoted by the cleric to publicly state their positions on the matter. “We are waiting to see the reaction of those governors. Whatever stopped them from reacting that day is another different thing. We are going to see what they are going to say. “Then, we will see the reaction of the Federal Government. We will see the reaction of those candidates whom the man is campaigning for, whether they like such,” he said. Hayab maintained that the controversy was not simply about Muslims supporting Muslim candidates but about the language used to address fellow Nigerians because of their faith. He argued that Nigeria had previously witnessed political tickets involving candidates of the same faith without generating the current level of tension, adding that the problem was not necessarily the religious identity of candidates but inflammatory rhetoric and attempts to demean other citizens. Hayab, however, said Christians would not abandon dialogue and engagement with Muslims and other religious groups despite the controversy. “We will not stop the dialogue. We will talk with honest people and clerics. We will talk with people who understand things rightly. “But we should also call out people like Jingir and others. And when we call them out, government can now act responsibly and know that these people are creating bigger problems for us than uniting Nigeria. “Nigeria needs unity. Nigeria needs togetherness,” he said. The NCA chairman also renewed his call for religion to be included in Nigeria’s national census, saying accurate demographic data could help address competing claims of religious numerical strength and dominance. Hayab also rejected suggestions that Christians had failed to engage government and other stakeholders on issues affecting their communities. According to him, Christian leaders regularly meet political party leaders, government officials and security agencies to raise concerns, although they sometimes choose quiet engagement in the interest of peace. The cleric also warned against a growing pattern of divisive statements, citing another video in which a speaker declared that Christians would be removed from government and other sectors if he became governor of Katsina State. Hayab said the emergence of such comments within a short period should concern Nigerians and called on authorities to take decisive steps against rhetoric capable of worsening religious tensions. He also faulted efforts to restrict religious preaching, arguing that the Constitution guarantees Nigerians the freedom to practise and propagate their faith. “Nigerians are suffering from hunger. There is insecurity in Nigeria. Our people are not reminding themselves to do what is right to secure Nigeria and to contribute to nation building. “Instead, they are busy coming … Read more
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Adeleke Defends Decision to Site Osun Airport in His Hometown
Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has defended the decision to site the proposed Ede International Airport in his hometown, arguing that his position as governor should not prevent him from developing his own community. He spoke on Tuesday at a town hall meeting organised by Arise Television for candidates contesting Saturday’s Osun governorship election. Adeleke, who is seeking re-election on the platform of the Accord Party, was responding to questions on the controversial airport project, which has drawn criticism from opposition parties over its cost and location. “I wish my town to be small London. So because I’m a governor, I should abandon my own town? Go and fact-check it. I just told you I just came back from Ife. Am I from Ife? I’m from Ede,” he said. The governor listed several Osun towns where his administration had executed projects, insisting he had not neglected other parts of the state in favour of Ede. “Am I from Ila? They have never done any dualised road in Ila. Am I from Bongo? Am I from Ikire? Am I from Iwo? Am I from Ilesa? Even all the towns in Osun, do I have a flyover in Ede? No. But I cannot be fixing other towns alone and abandon mine. I’m not a bastard. I will fix my town too,” Adeleke said. Turning to the airport project, the governor explained that the state currently has no functional airport, describing the existing facility as an airdrome that his predecessor had handed over to the Nigerian Air Force for training purposes. “It’s not my fault. When we’re about to build this airport, I said this is not acceptable. In the South-West, we are the only state without an airport. So I invited experts to go and look for a suitable site,” he said. Adeleke said the experts who scouted for a location eventually settled for Ede, adding that the choice mirrored precedents in other states, including Ogun State, where he said the airport was sited on farmland in Abeokuta. “They went around, and they ended up in Ede. Go to Ogun State; the airport is on farmland in Abeokuta. It’s the same thing. There’s nothing I can do about that,” he said. The Ede airport project, initially awarded at N99.5bn, has faced backlash from the All Progressives Congress and the Allied Peoples Movement, whose governorship candidates have questioned the technical capacity of the contractor and the rising cost of the project, now put at over N130bn. The APC candidate, Bola Oyebamiji, had alleged that the contract was awarded to a firm with a background in interior decoration rather than aviation infrastructure, while the APM had urged the Adeleke administration to instead upgrade the existing airstrip at Ido-Osun. Adeleke is seeking a second term against Oyebamiji and other candidates in Saturday’s election.
Makinde: I Won’t Become Political Godfather to My Successor
Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde on Monday said he would not seek to become a political godfather or dictate the affairs of government after leaving office in 2027, stressing that his successor would be allowed to govern independently. He stated this while playing host to members of the Muslim community at a Hijrah 1448 luncheon, held at the Banquet Hall, Government House, Agodi, in Ibadan, the state capital. Makinde stressed that having spent eight years in office serving the people of Oyo, he would not seek to remain in control of the government after 2027, as his successor would be allowed to provide leadership without undue interference. The governor said, “I won’t be a political godfather to my successor. After eight years of serving the people of Oyo State, I will ensure that there is a smooth transition and that whoever succeeds me is given the opportunity to develop and implement policies in line with the aspirations and yearnings of the people. “The essence of political leadership should not be the ability to control those who come after a public office holder, but the willingness to serve humanity and leave behind institutions and structures that can continue to benefit the people.” Makinde called on eligible voters to pay close attention to the qualities of candidates seeking political offices ahead of the 2027 general elections, rather than allowing ethnic, religious or other primordial considerations to determine their choices. “Leadership should be about service to humanity, not about control. As we approach another election period, I want to urge our people, especially our Muslim brothers and sisters, to hold those seeking political office accountable. “Do not assess political aspirants based on ethnicity, religion or other primordial considerations. Look at their competence, their character and their commitment to public service. Ask yourselves what they have done, what they can do and whether they genuinely have the interest of the people at heart. “Governance is about improving the lives of the people. Those entrusted with public office must always put the interest of the citizens above their personal interests or political interests. That is the essence of leadership and that is what our people deserve,“ he said. The state helmsman, therefore, assured the residents that his administration would remain focused on delivering good governance and consolidating its achievements throughout the remainder of its tenure. “Our remaining period in office will be dedicated to consolidating the achievements we have recorded so far and delivering more impactful projects and programmes for the benefit of our people across the state. “Until the expiration of this administration, we will continue to make decisions and take actions that will promote development, peace and prosperity in Oyo. We will continue to work for the people and ensure that the resources entrusted to us are used for the benefit of the people,“ Makinde said. He thanked the people of the state for the confidence reposed in his administration and for the support extended to his government throughout the past eight years. “I want to appreciate the people of Oyo for the confidence and support you have given this administration over the last eight years. We do not take that support for granted. I also want to sincerely appreciate the Muslim community for your partnership and your contributions to the growth and stability of our state. Your support has been important to the progress we have made.” Makinde said his administration would remain committed to ensuring that every segment of the state felt a sense of belonging in governance.
Mother Explains Why She Gifted Son a Goat on Sign-Out Day
Chinyere, the mother of Federal Polytechnic Nekede, Imo State, final-year student Promise Okoro, has explained her decision to gift her son a goat during his department’s sign-out ceremony. The gesture, which was captured in a viral video, attracted cheers from students as Chinyere presented the goat to her son before hugging him tightly. Speaking in an interview with BBC News Pidgin on Monday, the woman said the gift was her way of rewarding Promise for making her proud, obeying her instructions and staying away from cultism. She said she had promised to surprise him if he successfully completed his studies without disappointing her. “I don’t have money for a 4matic jeep, and I love that guy, my son. I said, let me buy this goat as a gift. “When he was going to school, I told him not to affiliate himself with cultism and to make me proud by not dropping out. I told him that if he made me proud, I was going to surprise him. He didn’t disappoint me. “He has been respectful to the family and everyone. He’s a footballer, and I want to prove my love for him. That is why I bought the goat for him.” According to Chinyere, she spent N120,000 on the goat, adding that she would have paid more if necessary to fulfil her promise. “I bought the goat for N120,000. I said even if it is N200,000, I will try my best to see that I come with that goat,” she said. The mother said she was delighted by the students’ reaction as she made her way to her son with the animal. “As I was walking, they (students) were screaming. I was happy, and I knew my son too was,” she added. Reacting to the surprise, Promise said he initially thought his coursemates were calling him to witness an engagement ceremony after hearing students shouting, “say yes.” He said he was shocked when he discovered that his mother had come to the school with a goat for him. “It was one of my coursemates that called me because I thought it was an engagement serenade because people in the vicinity were screaming, ‘say yes.’ “So I was surprised for her to even call me to come and see my mum because she brought a goat. I was asking if she knew my mum because I wasn’t convinced. “I came, happy and deeply emotional. I wasn’t ashamed. I was extremely happy. I am not even ashamed in school; why then would I be ashamed of my mum or her action?” The video of the mother presenting the goat to her son has since generated reactions online, with many Nigerians applauding her for celebrating her son’s academic milestone in a unique way.
Meet Nigerian Twins Who Defied the Odds to Secure NNPC Jobs
Identical Nigerian twins, Hussaini and Hassan Malami, have been employed by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited as members of the NNPC Tigers Class of 2026, overcoming an initial setback after one of them was reluctant to apply due to a misunderstanding about the company’s recruitment process. The account was contained in a profile by Senior Communications Advisor, NNPC Limited, Adaobi Oniwinde, on Monday. Hussaini, who had always aspired to work with NNPC, applied when recruitment opened and encouraged his twin brother, Hassan, to do the same. Hassan, however, was initially reluctant, believing that NNPC recruited only one person from a family and not wanting to jeopardise his brother’s chances. He was also more interested in joining the Nigerian Air Force and already had a job in the banking sector. According to the profile, Hassan eventually applied after persistent encouragement from Hussaini and as the application deadline approached. The twins subsequently took the computer-based recruitment test on the same day but in different locations, with Hussaini sitting for his in Sokoto and Hassan in Kaduna. Following a recruitment process that included interviews, both brothers received employment letters on the same day. Hussaini said he discovered the employment offer after midnight and was eager to share the news with his family. “I opened the email after midnight and wanted to wake everybody up to tell them,” he said. Hassan said he learnt about his successful application through the family WhatsApp group when he woke up. “That’s when the pressure hit me. I was now nervous about the possibility of not being successful once Hussaini shared his news,” he said. Both brothers eventually secured positions at NNPC, with Hussaini joining NNPC Exploration & Production Limited and Hassan joining NNPC Gas Infrastructure Company. For Hassan, his new role has exposed him to aspects of Nigeria’s gas industry that were previously unfamiliar to him. “I didn’t know there was a whole business dedicated to transporting gas,” he said. “Now I’ve seen how gas powers plants and manufacturing companies. Hearing that gas is the future is one thing. Seeing how it is happening is another.” Although Hassan had initially preferred a career in the military, he now considers his work in the energy sector another form of national service. He said he still hoped to explore military service before reaching the age limit in 2030. For Hussaini, his employment at NNPC has reinforced his interest in contributing to the development of the country’s energy sector. He also expressed interest in becoming a guest lecturer at hisyou university in the future, saying he hoped to share practical industry experience with students. “When I was in university, I only had one lecturer with field experience,” he said. “I want to share practical experience with students someday.” The twins identified different NNPC culture and transformation pillars that best reflected their approaches to work. Meet Nigerian Twins Who Defied the Odds to Secure NNPC Jobs Hussaini chose Enterprise First, saying, “Giving your best to the company is giving your best to the country.” Hassan, a civil engineer, identified Execution Excellence, explaining, “I’m a civil engineer. I like seeing things come to life from concept to completion.” The brothers also urged young Nigerians interested in joining NNPC to disregard rumours about the recruitment process and apply when opportunities arise. “You don’t need to know anybody at NNPC. Apply. Take the test and earn your place,” they said.
2Baba, Annie Idibia Follow Each Other Again Amid Reconciliation Speculation
Nigerian music star Innocent Idibia, popularly known as 2Baba, and his estranged wife, Annie Idibia, have reignited reconciliation speculation after the pair followed each other again on Instagram. The former couple, who had previously unfollowed each other on the social media platform, are now following each other again. The development has generated speculation among fans, with some interpreting the renewed Instagram connection as a possible sign that the estranged couple may be rebuilding their relationship. Annie has also reverted to the Instagram name she recently changed from Annie Idibia to Annie Macaulay, further fuelling fans’ curiosity. However, neither 2Baba nor Annie has publicly confirmed that they are reconciling or taking steps to revive their marriage. The renewed social media connection comes more than a year after 2Baba publicly announced that he and Annie had separated and were filing for divorce. In January 2025, the singer announced on Instagram that he and Annie had been separated for some time and were “currently filing for divorce”. The announcement generated widespread reactions, particularly because of the couple’s long and often turbulent relationship. Although the post was initially deleted amid claims that his account had been hacked, 2Baba later confirmed that he was responsible for the announcement. The couple’s relationship dates back to the early years of 2Baba’s music career. Annie featured in the video for his hit song, African Queen, and the pair eventually got married in 2013. Their wedding was held in two ceremonies, with the traditional wedding taking place in Akwa Ibom State and the white wedding held in Dubai. The marriage, however, was repeatedly hit by public controversies, particularly over 2Baba’s relationships with other women and his children from previous relationships. In 2021, the couple’s marital crisis became a major subject of public discussion after Annie accused 2Baba of travelling to the United States to spend time with Pero Adeniyi, the mother of some of his children. The controversy triggered a series of public accusations involving members of both families. Despite the repeated challenges, the couple continued their relationship and renewed their vows in 2023 to mark their 10th wedding anniversary. However, their marriage eventually suffered another major setback, leading to 2Baba’s separation announcement in January 2025. The singer later moved on and married Edo State lawmaker, Natasha Osawaru. Since the separation, both 2Baba and Annie have occasionally been at the centre of speculation about their relationship. The latest development, however, is the renewed Instagram connection between the estranged couple. While following each other again does not necessarily confirm a reconciliation, the move has nevertheless revived discussions about the possibility of the former couple making peace after years of marital crisis.
Ex – Thai Lawmaker Kills Local Official in Dispute Over Finances
A former Thai lawmaker allegedly shot and killed a local government official in broad daylight on Monday following a financial dispute, before being arrested and later confessing to journalists at a police station. The attack took place outside a government building in Nonthaburi province, north of Bangkok, just days after a school shooting in the same region that raised questions over gun control in Thailand. Flanked by police officers following his arrest, former MP Chalong Riewrang told reporters he had tried to talk to local official Thongchai Yenprasert about money. “I followed him to his car and hit his car’s window, saying I want to talk. He said he will not talk, so I pulled my gun,” Chalong admitted, handcuff-free and smoking a cigarette. “I did not aim to shoot, but his driver pulled a gun and pointed it at me so I fired.” Thongchai, who was chairman of the Nonthaburi local government administration, later died of his wounds, according to a hospital director, Sakon Sukprom. He was hit in the neck and lost a lot of blood, the director said. Thongchai’s driver was also shot, wounded in his right arm, but he successfully underwent surgery, Sakon said. Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul told reporters that no one in Thailand except on-duty officials was legally allowed to carry a gun in public, noting the last gun-carry licences were issued three years ago and were only valid for one year. Anutin said authorities will pursue “full legal action” against Chalong, a former member of the prime minister’s party. “No matter who he is, he is now a murderer,” Anutin said. – Private issue – Chalong had confessed to being the sole shooter during the incident, but “both sides had guns”, regional police commander Wattana Yeechin told reporters earlier. A firearm was found in Thongchai’s vehicle but had not been used, while CCTV footage showed only Chalong firing his weapon from close range, he added. Wattana said the dispute was over several million baht (tens of thousands of dollars). “It was a private issue. According to his confession, it was about money that the… chairman borrowed from him for several years, and he asked for the return of the money several times,” he said. Nonthaburi governor Chestha Mosikarat earlier told reporters the suspect and victim were “friends for a long time” and the incident likely stemmed from a misunderstanding. Thailand has one of the highest rates of gun ownership in the region, with around 10 million firearms estimated to be in circulation — roughly one for every seven inhabitants. On Friday, a 14-year-old boy shot dead the grandparents who raised him in Nonthaburi before killing six others at his school and then turning the gun on himself. Officials have since promised stricter gun laws, but previous pledges have failed to prevent repeated shootings. AFP
“I Now Have Three Wives,” Says Kano Mass Wedding Beneficiary
Dantani Aruba, a beneficiary of the Kano State Government’s mass wedding initiative, has expressed delight after marrying another wife through the programme. Aruba, who spoke during the mass wedding ceremony on Saturday, said the initiative had allowed him to expand his family without bearing the financial burden usually associated with marriage. In a now-trending video recorded by NewsCentralTV on Monday, he said, “I just married another wife, and I am happy that I have married another one. My wives are now three.” Aruba was among the beneficiaries who tied the knot at the mass wedding organised by the Kano State Government as part of its intervention to assist people who may be unable to afford the cost of marriage. The PUNCH reports that the state government under the leadership of Governor Yusuf Abba sponsored the wedding of 1,500 couples at a cost of N1.5bn. The programme, coordinated by the Kano State Hisbah Board, targets people from low-income backgrounds, including widows, widowers, divorcees, spinsters and bachelors. The government had earlier said the funds would cover dowry, empowerment support and household items for the beneficiaries. According to the state government, each couple is entitled to support including dowry, furniture, food items and other materials to help them establish their homes. The programme, popularly known as Auren Gata, was introduced in Kano in 2012 by the then Governor Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, when 100 couples, mainly widows and divorcees, were married at the palace. The initiative has continued under successive administrations, with the number of beneficiaries increasing over the years in response to growing demand. The 2026 edition also accommodated beneficiaries in polygamous marriages, in line with Islamic practice.
FULL LIST: Funke Akindele Reveals Star-Studded Cast for New Movie ‘The Four’
Nollywood actress and filmmaker Funke Akindele has announced the star-studded cast of her latest film, The Four, ahead of its global cinema release on December 11, 2026. The film, titled The Four: No One Fights Alone, brings together some of Nollywood’s biggest names, alongside music and entertainment personalities. The cast includes Akindele herself, Waje, Chioma Akpotha, Bisola Aiyeola, John Ekanem, Wunmi Toriola, Lateef Adedimeji, Ireoluwa Olaniyan, Ali Nuhu, Omotunde Adebowale David, known as Lolo1,, Mide Iwasokun, Kolapo Omotosho, Shoday, Richard Mofe-Damijo, Timini Egbuson, Uzor Arukwe and Ogbolor. The film also features Ronke Oshodi Oke, Antar Laniyan and entertainment personalities Samuel Banks and Ayomide Iwasokun. Set between the picturesque Odu Community and the vibrant city, the film follows Esosa and three fiercely loyal women whose determination to fight for the future of a young man they love puts their courage, faith and loyalty to the test. The film explores themes of hope, sacrifice and unity while incorporating music, fashion, language and tradition to showcase Nigeria’s cultural identity. Akindele, who serves as the film’s writer, director and producer, said the movie would explore relationships and experiences that audiences could identify with. Speaking in an interview with BellaNaija uploaded on Monday, she said, “Audiences have grown with us over the years, and they expect stories that entertain while reflecting who we are.” She added, “With The Four, we are exploring the relationships that shape us, challenge us and stay with us. I think audiences will find a part of themselves in this story.” The movie marks another major theatrical project for Akindele, who has established herself as one of Nigeria’s leading filmmakers and box-office forces. She has directed and produced commercially successful films including Omo Ghetto: The Saga, Battle on Buka Street, A Tribe Called Judah, Everybody Loves Jenifa and Behind The Scenes. Her films have repeatedly broken Nigerian box-office records, strengthening her reputation as one of Africa’s most influential filmmakers. The Four: No One Fights Alone is scheduled for a global cinema release on December 11, 2026, with FilmOne handling its theatrical distribution.
Fire Razes House in Kwara as Arson Suspected
Arson is suspected to be behind a fire outbreak that destroyed a room in a three-bedroom apartment in Iluteju Community, Irewolede area of Ilorin, Kwara State, on Saturday. The fire, which occurred around 1:07pm at C76, Iluteju Community, was quickly contained by personnel of the Kwara State Fire Service, preventing it from spreading to other parts of the building. The agency confirmed this in a statement issued by its Public Relations Officer, Hassan Adekunle, a copy of which was made available to The PUNCH in Ilorin. According to Hassan, the suspicion of arson followed information gathered from sympathisers and community members who were at the scene of the incident. “According to information gathered from sympathisers and members of the community at the scene, the fire was suspected to have been deliberately set,” he said. The spokesperson added that the room affected by the fire was the only one in the building furnished with furniture, while the other rooms had been emptied of their contents. “According to information gathered from sympathisers and members of the community at the scene, the fire was suspected to have been deliberately set,” he said. The spokesperson added that the room affected by the fire was the only one in the building furnished with furniture, while the other rooms had been emptied of their contents. He also said the building had already been disconnected from electricity, ruling out power supply as an immediate source of ignition. Hassan, however, noted that the cause of the fire remained subject to further investigation by the appropriate authorities. “The affected building had already been disconnected from the power supply, further ruling out electricity as an immediate source of ignition, subject to further investigation by the appropriate authorities,” he stated. The Fire Service urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities that could lead to fire outbreaks or endanger lives and property. The Chief Fire Officer, Muhammed Alabi, commended the firefighters for their prompt response and urged residents to continue providing accurate and timely information to the service during emergencies.