Home Blog Page 227

Funke Akindele’s ‘Behind The Scenes’ Emerges Highest Grossing Nollywood Movie In UK,  Ireland

By
Akinwale Kasali
-
0
Funke Akindele
Funke Akindele

By Akinwale Kasali

Funke Akindele,  Nollywood Actress and Producer has made history.

Her movie, ‘Behind The Scenes’, which emerged as the highest grossing movie of all time in Africa, has recorded another major international milestone, becoming the highest-grossing Nollywood release in Ireland and the UK, with earnings of £159,000.

The movie, distributed by FilmOne Entertainment, also achieved significant commercial success at the domestic box office, grossing N2.7 billion to become one of Nollywood’s biggest titles of all time.

In a post shared on its Instagram page, the distributor described the achievement as a record-breaking run and a defining moment for African cinema.

”A record-breaking run. A defining moment for African cinema,” the company said, adding that the film continues to attract audiences across multiple regions.

It was gathered that ‘Behind The Scenes’ explores themes around fame, success, and the hidden emotional realities behind public admiration.

The film’s success extends beyond West Africa with growing viewership reported across international markets, further reinforcing Nollywood’s expanding global footprint.

No Sallah Dubar Until The Supreme Court Decides The Rightful Emir – Kano State Govt.

By
Suleiman Anyalewechi
-
0
Emir Sanusi holds Durbar In Kano

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Kano State Government has pledged its neutrality in the festering struggle for the control of the Emirate stool between factional

.

This is as the Government vehemently debunked claims suggesting that the reinstated 16th  Emir Sanusi has been approved to conduct the 2026 Sallah Dubar festivities.

The Source reports that there has been an intense battle for the control of Kano Emirate throne since May 23, 2024, following the controversial dethronement of the 15th Emir Aminu Bayero and the subsequent reinstatement of  Sanusi as the 16th Emir by Governor Abba Kabiru Yusuf.

The two factional Emirs have since then  been maintaining two parallel Palaces to assert their authorities.

While the Kano State Government-backed Emir Sanusi stays at the Kofar Kudu main Palace, his rival, Bayero, holds court at the Nasarawa mini Palace.

Similarly, while the two contending forces are presently locked in multiple legal battles which are awaiting final pronouncement from the Supreme Court, they have also been engaged in a bitter struggle over who will conduct the traditional Sallah Dubar festivities in the last three years.

The insistence of the two rival Emirs to conduct parallel Dubar festivities and the resultant tension and disagreements between their supporters had forced the Police to put the event on hold in the last three years.

The Kano State Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs Ibrahim Waiya in a statement on Tuesday March, 17, 2026, insisted that no decision has been taken on who between the contending Emirs will lead this year’s Sallah Dubar activities.

The Commissioner described as baseless, misleading and totally false, trending reports suggesting that Governor Yusuf has approved Emir Sanusi to lead the Dubar festivities.

The Kano State Government while affirming its neutrality in the Emirship tussle, emphasized the need for all parties, and their supporters to allow the court to decide the matter.

The State Commissioner for Information,  while appealing for calm among citizens and residents, also enjoined media practitioners to always cross- check  with the appropriate authorities before reporting.

The Source further reports that tension had, last week risen, following a formal notice served by factional Emir Bayero, of his intension to conduct this year’s Sallah Dubar.

Aminu Bayero and Sanusi Lamido
Emirs Aminu Ado Bayero and Mohammad Sanusi II

In a letter addressed to the Kano State police Command dated March 7, 2026,  Bayero informed of his readiness to observe the traditional Durbar festivities immediately after the Ramadan in a few days time.

According to the notice issued by Abdullahi Haruna Kwaru, his Private Secretary, Bayero informed the State Commissioner of Police, CP Adamu Bakori, that the Durbar festivities, which will be conducted from his Nasarawa mini Palace, will feature such traditional activities as Hawan Daushe, Hawan Nasarawa, Hawan Sallah, Hawan Panisai ,as well as other activities.

His notice, however, came despite a subsisting police order banning the conduct of Sallah Dubar in the state by both Emirs based on unfavourable security reports.

CP  Bakori, while banning the Durbar festivities last year, (March 25, 2025) cited disturbing security reports indicating a possible break down of law and order as a major reason for the police action.

Instructively, the Kano state authorities’ present position contrasts sharply with its past  insistence on  Sanusi being allowed to conduct the traditional Sallah as the Government’s  recognized Emir .

In fact, Governor Yusuf had openly lambasted the Police over their refusal to allow Emir Sanusi to hold the traditional Durbar activities as the duly enthroned Emir.

The recently brokered political realignment which has seen Governor Yusuf parting ways with his erstwhile political godfather, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, and pitching tent with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is strongly believed by observers as having significantly altered the equation in the Emirate throne battle.

Arrest Of Bandits In Ondo: Keyamo Says Akure Airport Not Target

By
Ayodele Oni
-
0
Festus Keyamo - Aviation Minister

By Ayodele Oni

Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has acknowledged that discrepancies in reports issued by Aviation Agencies and the Police, about the Akure airport incident was due to bureaucratic communication gaps rather than deliberate misinformation.

The Minister clarified that the recent security breach at Akure Airport in Ondo State did not involve a direct attack on aviation infrastructure, insisting that the facility was never the intended target of the intrusion.

He made this known during an exclusive interview on Frontline, a public affairs programme on Eagle 102.5 FM, Ilese-Ijebu, Ogun State, on Tuesday, where he addressed growing public concerns over safety within Nigeria’s airport system.

Recall that on Monday, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) reported that four suspected bandits were arrested around the Akure Airport, following a joint security operation triggered by a distress alert over suspicious movements near the airport perimeter.

However, the Nigeria Police Force in Ondo State, in a statement by its spokesperson, Abayomi Jimoh, dismissed the claim as misleading, insisting that no such arrest took place at the airport.

The police explained that only two suspected logistics suppliers aiding kidnappers were apprehended along the Eleyewo and Ilu-Abo axis, not within the airport facility.

The minister explained that the incident, which generated conflicting narratives between aviation authorities and the police, must be properly understood within context, noting that what occurred was an external security situation that spilled into airport premises, rather than a deliberate attempt to compromise aviation safety.

“Okay, there are two angles to this. The first is the conflicting statements and the second of why they will gain access in the first place. Of course, the first one, the conflicting statements, you know, when people sit down in Lagos and Abuja and rely on information of their lieutenants on the ground, sometimes, not all the time, sometimes you are bound to have them such discrepancies because you are not physically there.”

He emphasized that available accounts indicate that individuals, suspected to be fleeing from a security situation involving bandits or kidnappers, gained access to the airport through a vulnerable section of the perimeter fence, rather than targeting passengers or airport operations.

According to him, the distinction is critical in preventing unnecessary panic and preserving public confidence in the safety of Nigeria’s aviation sector.

Keyamo noted that in large institutional structures, especially within government, reports often pass through multiple layers before reaching decision-makers, which can sometimes result in variations in the details presented.

The minister explained that officials issuing statements from headquarters in cities like Lagos or Abuja often rely on information relayed from personnel on the ground, which may not always capture the full picture in real time.

“The person issuing a statement in Lagos at the headquarters is not physically on the ground, and I think maybe that’s what happened.

” I’m also trying to get the full reports from all parties. Now, being the minister, I’m trying to get from all sides, but obviously what happened was that, of course, there was an intrusion into the airport in Akure, not that they were targeting the airport.

“The airport was not a target. Let us be very clear about this. In all the accounts, the airport was never a target. There was a problem, obviously, somewhere, and I think they ran into the airport, whether they are bandits or kidnappers and all that, but they ran into the airport.

“So, the airport was not, let me just assure the public, that the airport was not a target. Passengers were not a target.” he clarified.

As a result, he said, discrepancies in initial reports are not unusual, particularly in fast-evolving situations where agencies are working simultaneously to respond and communicate developments to the public.

The minister was emphatic in assuring Nigerians that the airport itself was not under threat.

Maiduguri Suicide Bombings: Tinubu Has Abandoned Governance For 2027- Senator Ali Ndume

By
Suleiman Anyalewechi
-
0
Ali Ndume and Bola Tinubu

By Suleiman Anyalewechi

The Senator representing Borno South at the National Assembly, Ali Ndume, has expressed fears that going by the astronomical death rate occasioned by insurgency, there may not be enough people left to vote for either President Bola Ahmed Tinubu or the opposition in 2027.

This is as he called on the President to pay less attention to issues bordering on the 2027 polls, and prioritize the pragmatic tackling of the disturbing security challenges facing most parts of the country, particularly the North East and North West regions.

Senator Ndume’s position is coming against the backdrop of the multiple suicide bombings that rocked the University of Maiduguri, and a post office in the Borno state capital on Monday.

No fewer than 23 persons have been confirmed dead by the police with over 108 others seriously injured in the devastating attacks said to have been carried out by suspected Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorist elements.

Senator Ndume in a statement on Tuesday March 17, 2026, passionately urged President Tinubu to put 2027 politics aside, and face the security challenges currently threatening to wipe out the people of the North East region and other areas.

The All Progressive Congress, APC, long-serving Senator  expressed serious concern that the all important task of protecting lives and properties of the citizenry has been sacrificed on the altar of political expediency.

“We seem to have abandoned the people for politics. The people that will vote  are dying.

“President Tinubu should concentrate on governance. He should address the safety of Nigerians and their welfare first.

“If there is no improvement in their welfare and security, the Government becomes their enemy.

“He should walk his talk on this emergency on security. The people should see that he is addressing their welfare.

“We are in a state of emergency, and he ( president Tinubu) should be seen to be addressing the scary security situation convincingly”, Ndume stated.

He called for the immediate arrest of those behind the dastardly bombings.

” I learnt that one of the Improvised Explosive Devices IEDs was detonated from a tricycle. That must have been registered with the relevant authorities and the investigation will expose the owner, and that may help in identifying those behind the explosions, Ndume noted.

The Borno South Senator maintained that it is not enough for the President to be  issuing  strongly-worded statements, noting that the authorities should walk the talk.

Wike’s Ally, Senator Aduda Dumps PDP

By
Akinwale Kasali
-
0
Senator Phillip Tanimu Aduda
Senator Phillip Tanimu Aduda

By Akinwale Kasali

Senator Phillip Tanimu Aduda, a strong ally of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Nyesom Wike, has formally resigned from the PDP.

Aduda, former Senate Majority Leader resigned his membership from the Party. He announced his exit in a letter addressed to the Chairman of the PDP in Karu Ward, Abuja.

In the letter dated March 17, 2026, the Three-term Senator cited the persistent internal turmoil within the former main opposition party as the primary reason for his departure.

“I write to formally notify you of my resignation as a member of the People’s Democratic Party, PDP, with immediate effect due to the crisis in the party,” Aduda stated in the brief but pointed letter.

Despite his sudden exit, the former Lawmaker expressed appreciation to the platform provided by the party throughout his extensive legislative career, which spanned the 7th, 8th and 9th Assemblies.

The letter reads further, “I remain grateful for the opportunity the party gave me to serve in various elective positions in our nation.”

Aduda’s resignation comes amid a backdrop of protracted leadership disputes and factional infighting that has plagued the PDP nationwide as it prepares for the 2027 electoral cycle.

The former Minority Whip and later Minority Leader of the Senate, was widely considered the face of the PDP in the FCT, having served as a Member of the House of Representatives for AMAC/Bwari (2003–2011) before his elevation to the Red Chamber.

While the letter did not specify his next political destination, many believe that he could be on his way to the ruling All Progressives Congress APC where he is expected to clinch the ticket to again represent the territory in the 2027 general election.

KWAM 1’s Daughter, Damilola, Declares Interest In Lagos Assembly Seat

By
Akinwale Kasali
-
0
KWAM1 and Daughter- Damilola,

By Akinwale Kasali

Damilola Marshal, daughter of Fuji maestro, King Wasiu Ayinde Marshal has declared her intention to vie for the Lagos Assembly Seat.

Damilola is currently the Senior Special Assistant to Lagos State Governor, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, on Tourism.

She is to run for the Lagos State House of Assembly for Surulere Constituency 2.

Taking to her Instagram Page on Social Media, she said she is committed to serve the people of Surulere Constituency 2.

The Lawyer wrote:

“I am excited to share that I, Barr. Damilola Ayinde Marshal, am stepping forward to serve the good people of Surulere Constituency 2 at the Lagos State House of Assembly.”

Damilola, who was called to Bar 12 years ago, stated that her professional experience has shaped her understanding of governance, justice, and the needs of her community.

“I am a woman of excellence and results. I am ready to serve and lead. With my background, I am fully prepared and ready to fight for what truly matters. I promise to be the voice of the youths in the House.

“As a young woman, I believe this is exactly what my people need right now, and that is why I decided to step forward,” she added.

She appealed to voters to support competence and progress, signing off with the message: “Youth Lokan!!! Igbega Eko, Ajumose wa ni.”

Damilola is vying to replace Mosunmola Rotimi Sangodara, who currently represents the constituency under the same Party, All Progressives Congress, APC.

She is KWAM 1’s second daughter who graduated from North America University, Houdegbe, Cotonou, Benin Republic, where she studied Law, before she was called to the Nigerian Bar on December 15, 2015.

She also holds a Masters in Law, LLM, (2022) from the University of Lagos, UNILAG.

You Cannot, Because You Are A Judge, Order A Lawyer To Kneel Down In Court  – NBA

By
Ayodele Oni
-
0
Afam Osigwe - NBA President
Afam Osigwe, NBA President.

By Ayodele Oni

A Judge of the Federal High Court who ordered a lawyer who appeared  before him to kneel down, over an alleged unruly behaviour, has come under attack from the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA).

The NBA, criticised the reported courtroom incident involving Justice Mohammed Umar, and described the ordering of a lawyer to kneel down as contrary to judicial ethics and professional standards.

The incident occurred during proceedings at the Federal High Court in Abuja in a case involving activist Omoyele Sowore, who is being prosecuted by the Department of State Services, DSS, over alleged cyber-related offences.

According to reports, the Judge cautioned defence Counsel, Marshall Abubakar, over his tone, while addressing the Court and at one point ordered him to “come out and kneel down.”

The situation was  de-escalated after interventions from other lawyers, prompting the Judge to adjourn proceedings.

In a statement issued by its President, Afam Osigwe, the NBA expressed concern over the development, noting that such actions raise serious questions about courtroom conduct and adherence to due process.

“The courtroom is a temple of justice, governed by law, procedure, and decorum,” the association stated, and emphasised that judicial authority must be exercised within established legal boundaries.

While acknowledging that Judges have the power to maintain order, the NBA stressed that directing any individual to kneel in court is not a recognised judicial sanction under Nigerian law and falls short of expected standards on the bench.

The association further explained that although courts possess powers to punish contempt, such authority must be exercised through clearly defined legal procedures that uphold fairness and respect for human dignity.

It also urged legal practitioners to maintain professionalism at all times, noting that while lawyers are expected to advocate strongly for their clients, such advocacy must remain within the bounds of decorum and respect for the Court.

The NBA reiterated its commitment to upholding the rule of law and maintaining high ethical standards within the legal profession, adding that it would engage appropriate authorities where necessary to preserve the integrity of the justice system.

Gov. Soludo, Deputy, Ibezim Sworn In For Second Term

By
Ayodele Oni
-
0
Governor Soludo Sworn In For Second Term
Governor Soludo Sworn In For Second Term

By Ayodele Oni

Anambra State was agog on Tuesday as Charles Soludo was sworn in for a second term in office as the Governor of Anambra State, in a ceremony attended by top political figures across the country.

The inauguration, held on Tuesday at the newly renovated Alex Ekwueme Square in Awka, marked the formal commencement of Soludo’s second tenure. He took the oath of office alongside his deputy, Onyeka Ibezim.

Among dignitaries present at the event were vice president, Kashim Shettima, former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan, as well as elder statesman and former Commonwealth Secretary-General Emeka Anyaoku.

Also in attendance were several governors, including Siminalayi Fubara, alongside political stakeholders, traditional rulers, and party faithful, reflecting the significance of the occasion within Nigeria’s political landscape.

Soludo’s re-election followed the November 8, 2025 governorship poll conducted by the Independent National Electoral Commission,(INEC).

He secured a decisive victory, polling 422,664 votes to defeat his closest challenger, Nicholas Ukachukwu of the All Progressives Congress (APC), who garnered 99,445 votes. Paul Chukwuma of the Young Progressives Party (YPP) finished third with 37,753 votes.

INEC data showed that 16 candidates contested the election. Out of 2,788,864 registered voters, 598,229 were accredited, with 595,298 valid votes cast and 11,244 rejected across the state’s 21 local government areas.

In a sweeping outcome, Soludo, candidate of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), won in all 21 local government areas, underscoring a landslide mandate from the electorate.

Soludo, in his inaugural remark, is expected to outline key priorities for his second term, with focus likely to remain on economic transformation, infrastructure development, security, and governance reforms in the state.

North East Joint Task Force  Alerts About Possible Increase In Banditry

By
Ayodele Oni
-
0
Soldiers on Duty - Nigerian Army

By Ayodele Oni

The Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) has alerted that there is likely to be heightened banditry few days to end the Ramadan.

Reacting to Monday’s series of blasts in Maiduguri, Borno State, the task force, in a statement, explained that recent security developments indicate an increased threat of suicide bombing attacks by Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorist elements during the final days of Ramadan.

It added that “the unfortunate incidents recorded in Maiduguri on Monday evening, around Monday Market, Post Office, and the entrance of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH), leading to casualties, further highlight the continued intent of terrorist elements to target densely populated civilian locations in order to create panic and gain propaganda advantage.

The statement, signed by Lt Col Sani Uba, Information Officer, stated that “Historical patterns show that terrorist groups often intensify their activities during significant religious periods, particularly around the 27th and 29th days of Ramadan, when places of worship, markets, motor parks, and other public gathering areas experience increased in human traffic.”

As preventive measures, the task force advised that  “members of the public across the North East region are strongly advised to remain security conscious, vigilant, and observant of their surroundings, particularly in crowded locations such as mosques, prayer grounds, markets, shopping areas, bus terminals, hospitals, and major road junctions.

“Worshippers attending night prayers (Taraweeh and Tahajjud) and other religious gatherings are encouraged to exercise caution and cooperate with security personnel conducting screening and access control procedures.

“The public is specifically advised to observe the following precautionary measures:

“Remain alert to suspicious persons or unusual movement/behaviour, particularly individuals loitering around crowded areas or attempting to avoid security checks.

“Report unattended bags, parcels, or suspicious objects* immediately to the nearest security personnel.

“Avoid overcrowded areas whenever possible and maintain situational awareness when attending places of worship, markets, or public events.

“Cooperate fully with security agencies during stop-and-search operations, security screening, and other safety procedures.

“Parents and guardians are urged to be mindful of the movement of their children, especially during evening hours and night prayers.

“Community/opinion leaders, religious authorities, market associations, and transport unions are encouraged to support ongoing security efforts by sensitizing members of their communities and promptly reporting any suspicious activities.

“Security agencies across the region have already heightened operational readiness and increased surveillance, patrols, and protective measures around critical locations and population centres.

“These measures are aimed at preventing any further terrorist attacks and ensuring that citizens can observe the remaining days of Ramadan and the forthcoming Eid celebrations in peace and safety. Public cooperation remains a critical component of counter-terrorism efforts.

“Timely information from vigilant citizens has repeatedly helped security forces prevent attacks and apprehend terrorist collaborators. Members of the public are therefore urged to remain calm but vigilant and to promptly report any suspicious activity to the nearest security formation or through established emergency channels.

‘The Theatre Headquarters reassures all residents of the North East that security forces remain fully committed to protecting lives and property and will continue to take all necessary measures to defeat terrorist elements and deny them freedom of action across the region.

“If you See Something – Say Something. Security is Everyone’s Responsibility.”

Tinubu, Gov. Zulum Condemn Maiduguri Bomb Blasts, Mourn Victims

By
Ayodele Oni
-
0

By Ayodele Oni

President Bola Tinubu and Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, have called for more intensified security measures following Monday’s blast in Maiduguri.

The President, in a personally signed message, condemned the incident, describing it as a cowardly act.

According to him, “The recent news from Maiduguri, Borno State, is profoundly upsetting. I mourn those who lost their lives, sympathise with the injured and stand in solidarity with the people of Borno during this challenging time.

“I want to make it categorically clear that these acts of terror are the final desperate and frantic attempts by criminals and terrorist elements trying to instil and spread fear, as they are under constant pressure from our brave armed forces and security agencies operating in various theatres.

Professor Babagana Zulum
Professor Babagana Zulum, Borno State governor

“We will continue to intensify our efforts against all criminal elements, wherever they may be.

“I must commend the courage and fighting spirit of our patriotic troops who successfully repelled the coordinated attacks by these terrorists on military positions in the state.

“The Monday attacks were desperate acts of the evil-minded terrorist groups. Our gallant military and civilian task forces will curtail and put them down.

“Just last weekend, during a security meeting with leaders of security and intelligence agencies, I approved additional equipment and operational support to enhance their capabilities. This effort is already in progress.

“Additionally, I have directed security chiefs to move to Maiduguri to take charge of the situation. I have also directed the emergency agencies to provide proper care for the injured.

“There is no place in Nigeria where terrorists will find safety. We will locate them, confront them, and completely defeat them. Nigeria will not succumb to fear.”

Borno State Governor, Prof Babagana Umara Zulum, condemned the explosion that occurred in some parts of the metropolis on Monday evening.

President Bola Tinubu
President Bola Tinubu

Zulum, who is currently in Saudi Arabia for the Lesser Hajj, described the attack as despicable, cruel, and cowardly, targeting innocent people in the holy month of Ramadan.

In a statement, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media, Dauda Iliya, called for increased vigilance and heightened security measures, particularly in places of worship, as the festive period beckons.

“I am deeply saddened by the explosions that occurred in parts of the metropolis on Monday evening.

“My thoughts and prayers are with the families of the victims and those injured as a result of the blast. The act is utterly condemnable, barbaric, and inhumane,” said Zulum.

He added, “The recent surge in attacks is not unconnected with intense military operations in the Sambisa forest and other hideouts of the insurgents.

The Governor, therefore, assured people of the state that the military and other security agencies are on top of the situation, as adequate measures have been taken to forestall any security breach in Maiduguri and the entire state.

He called on residents to remain calm, go about their usual activities, and report any suspicious movement or activity to security agencies.

1...226227228...3,027Page 227 of 3,027