Good day, Nigeria! Check out today's top headlines from Nigeria's newspapers, Friday, 3rd May, 2025.
1. Call Your Family into Line, Warns Atiku to Tinubu
Latest Headlines in Nigerian Newspapers on Saturday, 3rd May, 2025:
Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, has publicly urged President Bola Tinubu to rein in his family, particularly his son, Seyi, following accusations of bribery, abduction, and intimidation from the NANS President. These grave claims have shaken democratic norms and civilian liberties in the nation.
2. On the Radar: Simon Ekpa's Extradition to Nigeria
During the court adjournment of Nnamdi Kanu's trial, it was revealed that self-proclaimed disciple of Kanu, Simon Ekpa, will soon be extradited from Finland to Nigeria. Witness PW-AAA, a DSS operative, confirmed this during cross-examination. No weapons were found with Kanu or the woman arrested with him, but electronic devices and documents linked to IPOB were recovered.
3. Lagos BRT Driver Sentenced to Death for Killing Bamise
In a historic ruling, the Lagos state high court sentenced an LBRT driver, Andrew Ominikoron, to death by hanging for murdering 22-year-old fashion designer, Bamise Ayanwola. On February 26, 2022, Bamise boarded Ominikoron's bus at the Ajah axis, and her disappearance sparked outrage. Her lifeless body was found nine days later on Carter Bridge, Lagos.
4. Unhappy with Wages? Demand Better, Says Ex-Aide
Former presidential media aide, Laolu Akande, expressed his concern over the poor remuneration of workers in Nigeria. He urged the government to address this issue, especially on Workers Day, and stresses the importance of implementing a living wage policy to improve workers' lives and well-being.
5. Federal Colleges Transform into Universities
A monumental change is on the horizon for Federal Colleges of Education (FCOEs) in Nigeria, as they have been granted the power to award both NCE and Bachelor's Degrees in Education. The empowerment of FCOEs is part of the ongoing reforms aimed at revolutionizing the country's teacher education system.
6. Labour Party Waves Off Coalition Offers
The faction led by Julius Abure of Labour Party declares it will not join any coalition or merger ahead of the 2027 election. The party remains committed to rebuilding, repositioning, and re-strategizing its programs and policies to ensure its victory in the upcoming elections and promises to reconcile with dissatisfied members.
7. Foreigners on Expired Visas Given 3-Month Ultimatum
Foreigners in Nigeria on expired visas have been given a 90-day window, from 1st May to 1st August 2025, to depart the country voluntarily. Failure to comply within the stipulated period will result in strict consequences. The new directive also indicates that foreigners who have overstayed their visas for more than a year will face a permanent entry ban beginning August 2nd, 2025.
8. Seyi Tinubu Blasts NANS President for False Allegations
Seyi Tinubu countered allegations made by NANS President, Comrade Isah, of offering N100 million bribes and abductions. Seyi categorically denied any meeting with the President regarding such matters. The response to these claims follows Isah's press conference accusing Seyi and Minister of Youth Development of attempting to bribe him to promote President Tinubu and a subsequent loss of support.
9. Akon: Wizkid Was a Local Star Before My Label Signed Him
According to Senegalese-American singer, Akon, he had a significant role in Wizkid's rise to international fame. Akon claimed he signed Wizkid and other Nigerian artists in 2008, giving Afrobeats the global recognition it enjoys today. Akon also highlighted the importance of his efforts in bringing business acumen and infrastructure to the Afrobeats industry.
10. Shooting Stars Deny Match-fixing Allegations
The Oluyole Warriors refute the match-fixing accusations made by a sports presenter, emphasizing that the claims are baseless, barbaric, and unfounded. The club condemns such remarks and stands by their integrity in the face of slanderous allegations. The incident has sparked controversy, as a sports presenter insinuated that the team intentionally lost games against Katsina United and Remo Stars.
- DSS and EFCC Arrest several high-profile individuals in Abuja on Corruption charges: Reports suggest that the DSS and EFCC have embarked on a joint operation to arrest and prosecute corrupt officials, targeting those involved in funds embezzlement and bribery scandals in the capital city, Abuja.
- Anti-Police Brutality Protests Sweep Across Nigeria: In the wake of several reported cases of police brutality, citizens continue to rally across various cities, including Lagos and Port Harcourt, demanding accountability and justice for victims.
- Nigeria's Super Eagles Secure World Cup Qualification: In a thrilling match against Congo in Calabar, the Super Eagles emerged victorious, securing Nigeria's spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. Football fans across the nation are elated and celebrate this significant achievement in the country's sports history.
