Laide Bakare under fire for exposing daughter to alcohol, clubbing at 17

Nollywood actress Laide Bakare has come under fire after revealing that she introduced her teenage daughter to nightlife and alcohol at the age of 17.

The actress made the revelation during an interview with content creator Mr Lilgaga, where she openly admitted that she took pride in being the one to expose her daughter to clubbing.

Laide said:

‘I took my daughter to the club for the first time at 17. And I like the fact that in her memoir, she would reference me as the person who introduced her to alcohol and clubbing.’

One social media user, @It_hafizski, wrote:

‘Introducing a 17-year-old to alcohol and nightlife is reckless parenting, not cruise. At that age, guidance and discipline should come first, not clubbing.’

Another, @DonMike_X, questioned her motherhood, saying:

‘And are you a good mother like that?’

Police nab 3 suspected child traffickers, bandits’ drugs supplier in Kaduna

The Police Command in Kaduna State, said its operatives have nabbed three suspected child traffickers and one bandits’ drugs supplier in Kaduna.

The command’s spokesperson, DSP Mansir Hassan, confirmed the arrest in a statement issued in Kaduna on Thursday.

‘On Monday, at about 4:00 pm, Police operatives, acting on credible intelligence, arrested a suspected bandits’ drugs supplier, identified as Franklin Ozo, of Danmagaji, Zaria,’ he said.

According to him, the suspect was arrested by a surveillance team from Maraban Jos Division in possession of large quantities of Exol tablets, worth millions of Naira.

He said preliminary investigation revealed that the illicit drugs were ordered and heading to Kidandan and Giwa, where it was intended for consumption by bandits.

‘The suspect is currently in custody while further investigation is ongoing, ‘he said.

Hassan also disclosed that on Sept. 22, at about 4: 30 pm, police operatives, acting on credible intelligence, arrested a suspected notorious child trafficker, one Khadija Ibrahim, around he Narayi area of Kaduna.

He said she was found in possession of a child later identified as Abdulmumin (surname unknown).

‘Further investigations resulted in the arrest of two other suspects: Daniel Samuel of Narayi and Danjuma Makoshi. Their arrest subsequently led to the rescue of another victim, one Ibrahim Bilyaminu, a 5-year-old male from Gusau, Zamfara. The rescued children are safe and currently under police protection, while discreet investigation is ongoing to uncover the full network of the trafficking syndicate and ensure all perpetrators are brought to justice, ‘he said .

The spokesperson said that on Monday, following credible intelligence received from a reliable source, a suspect was sighted in possession of illegal firearms within Doka Ilu village in Giwa Local Government Area.

He said a team of detectives from the Anti-kidnapping Unit swiftly mobilised to the location and successfully apprehended the suspect identified as Alhaji Sani, popularly known as ‘Dan Gude.’

The spokesperson also said that exhibits recovered from the suspect included one fabricated AK47 rifle, two rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition and one AK-47 magazine. He said discreet investigation was ongoing to ascertain the source of the firearm and to arrest other possible accomplices.

Hassan said on Tuesday, at about 8:45 pm, based on the sustained community policing strategy recovered 60 cattle and 25 sheep that were earlier rustled.

According to him, this was the result of non-kinetic approach employed by the Commissioner of Police in the state, Rabiu Muhammad.

He said that Muhammad had reiterated the command’s determination to combat drug trafficking, arms proliferation and its dangerous effects to violent crimes in the state. He further warned all criminal elements involved in child trafficking and related crimes to desist or face the full wrath of the law.

Uba Sani’s CoS commends principal over transformational leadership

The Chief of Staff to the governor of Kaduna State, Sani Kila, has described his principal as a leader who has brought renewed hope to the people of Kaduna State.

Kila noted that Governor Sani has, in less than three years in office, demonstrated uncommon leadership qualities by delivering tangible results across key sectors of governance.

He emphasised that the governor’s achievements are not only visible but also speaks volumes about his passion for service and his commitment to the welfare of the people.

According to him, the administration’s strides in the education sector stand out as a major milestone. Schools across the state have witnessed renovation, new classrooms have been built, and teachers have received training to improve the quality of education.

He added that the interventions have created a better learning environment for children and given parents renewed confidence in public schools.

On security, Kila said the governor’s pragmatic approach to addressing the challenges of banditry and other criminal activities in the state.

He said Uba Sani’s collaboration with security agencies, coupled with grassroots engagement through community leaders, has helped to restore relative peace and stability in previously troubled areas.

He also highlighted the administration’s achievements in infrastructure development, pointing to the rehabilitation and construction of roads linking rural and urban communities, provision of water supply projects and the expansion of rural electrification, all of which have boosted economic activities and improved the standard of living for residents.

Healthcare, according to him, has equally received attention under the current administration, and the upgrade of primary healthcare centres, provision of essential drugs, and recruitment of more health workers are among the steps taken to ensure that quality medical care is accessible to people at the grassroots.

Kila explained that the state governor has placed emphasis on youth empowerment and women’s development, creating opportunities through skills acquisition programmes, small business support schemes, and agricultural initiatives.

He added that the governor’s inclusive style of governance, which gives room for participation by all groups regardless of tribe, religion, or social background, has united the people of Kaduna and strengthened social cohesion.

Boko Haram never chose Buhari as mediator, Jonathan is a liar – Garba Shehu

Former presidential aide, Garba Shehu, has rejected ex-President Goodluck Jonathan’s claim that the late President Muhammadu Buhari was once nominated by Boko Haram to serve as their mediator in peace talks with the Federal Government.

In a strongly worded statement on Friday, Shehu described Jonathan’s assertion as ‘false and politically motivated,’ suggesting the former president was attempting to rewrite history as part of his 2027 presidential ambition.

‘To be president in 2027, Goodluck Jonathan should look for another story to tell Nigerians,’ Shehu said.

‘Muhammadu Buhari was never nominated by Boko Haram. On the contrary, Shekau routinely denounced and threatened him, and their ideologies were diametrically opposed.’

Shehu recalled the 2014 Kaduna bomb attack where Buhari narrowly escaped death in an assault blamed on Boko Haram.

‘His campaigns were built around restoring security and defeating terrorism, not representing their cause,’ he noted.

Quoting the late Buba Galadima, then CPC National Secretary, Shehu reminded Nigerians that Buhari had at the time dismissed the reports as speculation.

Galadima had clarified that: ‘He (Buhari) said he had not even heard about it, and since nobody contacted him, he would not speak to the press.’

The rumour, Shehu explained, stemmed from a 2012 press conference staged by a Boko Haram faction led by Abu Mohammed Ibn Abdulaziz, who claimed Buhari and other northern elders were acceptable mediators.

The statement was swiftly disowned by Abubakar Shekau, who declared Abdulaziz had ‘no mandate.’

At the time, CPC’s late publicity secretary, Rotimi Fashekun, also accused Jonathan’s PDP government of exploiting the alleged nomination for political gain, calling it ‘a gambit to distract Nigerians from the massive looting under their watch.’

Shehu warned Jonathan against using ‘false narratives’ as political capital: ‘Mr Jonathan, you are making a false start. Buhari never spoke for Boko Haram, he fought them.’

AfroNation announces headliners ahead of 2026 festival

The annual three-day music festival, AfroNation, has announced its headlining artists for the 2026 edition of the festival.

AfroNation, on Instagram, revealed that Nigerian artists Asake, Olamide and Wizkid will be headlining the event alongside South Africa’s Tyla.

This announcement stirred excitement amongst fans as previous editions have proved to be memorable experiences for fans with performances from Burna Boy, Davido, Ayra Starr, Megan Thee Stallion and so many others.

The festival is set to unite the African diaspora with a celebration of dance, food, fashion, music, in Portugal in 2026.

TMC Oyo West inaugurates patrons, honours past leaders for service to Islam

THE Muslim Congress (TMC), Oyo West Local Government chapter, has inaugurated its newly appointed patrons, conferring certificates of recognition on eight distinguished members, with Alhaji Saheed Ishola Sodem named as grand patron.

The investiture ceremony was held on Sunday at the Anwarul Islam Central Mosque, Gedu Scheme, Oyo.

The new patrons include Alhaji Saheed Ishola Sodem (grand patron), Alhaji AbdulGaniy Asimiyu Alawo, Alhaji Dhikrulah Olalekan Ojombo, Alhaji Faruq Doyin Asaye, Alhaji Kabir Oyeleye Omo Oye, Alhaji Tijani Ridwanullah, Alhaji AbdulQuodri Ayantunji Ayanyemi and Alhaji Abdul Azeez Abdul Rasaq.

In an address, the Wakil (Local Government Coordinator) of TMC Oyo West, Ustadh Abdur Razaq Olayiwola, commended the honorees for their commitment to the propagation and development of Islam in the community.

‘We appreciate your immense contributions to the growth of Islam within and outside Oyo town. Your numerous meritorious deeds have convinced us that you are truly deserving of this honour,’ he said.

Delivering the inaugural lecture, the Waali (State Coordinator) of The Muslim Congress, Oyo State, Alhaji Daud Oladosu, described TMC as one of the most credible and impactful Islamic organisations in Nigeria.

He stressed that the mission and vision of the organisation are firmly rooted in the teachings of the Qur’an and Sunnah, covering all aspects of human and societal development.

He urged the patrons to support TMC’s initiatives both morally and financially, stating: ‘Those who have partnered with The Muslim Congress can testify that we are not only trustworthy but also transparent in our accountability before God and man.’

Responding on behalf of the newly inaugurated patrons, Alhaji Saheed Ishola Sodem expressed appreciation, describing TMC as a trustworthy and value-driven organisation reflective of the broader Islamic Ummah.

‘TMC is the only organisation with a genuine Islamic framework for addressing societal challenges. I have known this organisation for a long time and I have never heard anything negative about it. Associating with TMC is not only safe but also a step toward earning Allah’s pleasure,’ he remarked.

The event also featured an awards presentation to past leaders of TMC, Oyo West chapter.

The honorees included Professor Miftaudeen Rauf, Alhaji Waliyullah Abdulkareem, Ustadh Abdurrasheed Abdurraheem Aseke and Ustadh Abdulhakeem Adeyanju, recognised for their notable service and leadership.

Dame Sarah Mullally named 1st female spiritual head of Global Anglican Church, C of E

Dame Sarah Mullally has been appointed the 106th Archbishop of Canterbury, becoming the first woman in history to hold the Church of England’s most senior position.

The former Chief Nursing Officer for England, who was ordained in 2001, will formally assume office at a legal ceremony in Canterbury Cathedral in January 2026, followed by her enthronement service.

She succeeds Justin Welby, who resigned last year after criticism of his handling of the Church’s biggest child abuse scandal.

Accepting the role on Friday, Dame Sarah said she felt the ‘huge responsibility’ of leading the Church but added she had a ‘sense of peace and trust in God’ to carry her.

‘At every stage of my journey, through nursing and ministry, I have learned to listen deeply – to people and to God’s gentle prompting – to bring hope and healing,’ she said.

The new archbishop takes charge at a time of safeguarding crises, divisions over same-sex marriage, and falling church attendance. She has previously described the Church’s approval of same-sex blessings as ‘a moment of hope,’ while recognising deep divisions remain.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer welcomed her appointment, calling her ‘a safe pair of hands’ and praising the Church’s role in national life. Bishop Anthony Poggo, Secretary General of the Anglican Communion, urged Anglicans worldwide to pray for her as she prepares to take up the post.

Dame Sarah, who was made a Dame in 2005 for her contribution to nursing, also sits in the House of Lords, where she has strongly opposed assisted dying legislation, warning it ‘fails in its central plank, that it delivers choice.’

She will now be the spiritual leader of the Church of England and the worldwide Anglican Communion, in which the Archbishop of Canterbury plays a central unifying role.

Prince William opens up on plans for monarchy when crowned

Prince William, the Prince of Wales, has opened up on his plans for monarchy after his coronation.

While speaking with Eugene Levy for the Apple TV+ show, The Reluctant Traveler, Prince William revealed his agenda for when he is crowned King.

He stated that he plans to bring a much needed change to the monarchical system.

‘I think it’s safe to say that change is on my agenda. Change for good, and I embrace that, I enjoy that change. I don’t fear it, that’s the bit that excites me, the idea of being able to bring some change. Not overly radical, but changes that I think need to happen,’ he said.

William also spoke on the impact and role of history, while emphasising the need for people to live in the present.

‘I think if you’re not careful, history can be a real weight and an anchor around you, and you can feel suffocated by it, and restricted by it too much. And I think it’s important to live for the here and now. There are points when you look at tradition and go, is that still fit for purpose today? Is that still the right thing to do? Are we still doing and having the most impact we could be having?. So I like to question things, is what I’m really getting at,’ he added.

NAPAIS felicitates Tinubu, Nigerians, urges dialogue in oil sector dispute

THE National Association of Proprietors of Arabic and Islamic Schools (NAPAIS) has congratulated President Bola Tinubu and all Nigerians on the occasion of the nation’s 65th independence anniversary, expressing optimism that Nigeria is on the path to the greatness envisioned by its founding fathers.

In a statement signed by the NAPAIS president, Sheikh Muhammad-Jamiu Abdulgafar, and Secretary, Sheikh Muftau Salaudeen, the association urged citizens to embrace the country’s diversity as a source of strength for unity and progress.

Addressing the recent unrest in the oil and gas sector, NAPAIS appealed to the President of Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, and the leadership of the Nigerian Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) and other relevant stakeholder, to engage in constructive dialogue in resolving ongoing disputes involving tanker drivers.

According to the association, the appeal became necessary in light of the disruptions caused by the standoff between the Dangote Refinery and NUPENG, which reportedly led to the shutdown of refineries and the blockade of fuel tankers, resulting in temporary hardship for ordinary Nigerians.

‘Petrol remains a lifeline for Nigerians, for mobility, daily activities and businesses,’ said Sheikh Abdulgafar, who called on all parties involved to sheathe their swords in the interest of lasting peace and industrial harmony.

NAPAIS commended the efforts of the Federal Government, particularly the National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu, and the House of Representatives Committee on Downstream Petroleum, chaired by Hon. Ikenga Ugochinyere, for their timely intervention in averting further fuel supply disruptions.

On matters of traditional leadership, Sheikh Abdulgafar commented on the ongoing supremacy dispute between two prominent Yoruba monarchs, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi, and the Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade.

He urged both royal fathers to set aside rivalry and prioritise the development of their respective domains, especially now that the President of the Federal Republic is from the South West.

‘My advice to our revered monarchs is to compete in the area of development. Let them use their influence to attract projects and initiatives that will uplift their people and reduce poverty,’ he said.

In another development, the NAPAIS president condemned reports of female students being barred from attending schools for wearing the hijab, particularly in Ilorin, a predominantly Muslim city.

Sheikh Abdulgafar described such actions as an affront to Islam and a violation of the constitutional right to education.

‘Efforts are ongoing to engage the leadership of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) to foster religious tolerance and mutual respect. Under President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, education is a right for all Nigerian children. Any act that undermines this policy amounts to opposing government objectives,’ he stated.

On international affairs, the NAPAIS president praised countries such as Australia, Brazil, China, India, Canada and the United Kingdom for their recognition of the State of Palestine.

He called on the National Assembly to follow suit by supporting justice and global peace.

He urged Nigerian lawmakers to condemn the ongoing occupation and alleged annexation of Palestinian territories by the Israeli government, describing it as a path to ending genocide and promoting international justice.

No Going Back Yet: NULGE holds firm on Osun LG workers’ stay-at-home

The Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) in Osun says it has not issued any directive to local government staff in the state to resume work.

The Chairman of NULGE in the state, Dr Nathaniel Ogungbangbe, said this while addressing a news conference on Friday in Osogbo.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that local government areas in the state had been in crisis following the February 10 judgment by the Court of Appeal, Akure.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) claimed that the judgment did not reinstate the sacked All Progressives Congress (APC) chairmen and councillors elected in 2022, while APC insisted on their return to office.

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and NULGE, thereafter, directed local government workers to withdraw their services from February 17, citing security concerns.

However, local government staff under the aegis of Association of Concerned Local Government Workers on Thursday called on their colleagues to resume work at their various councils to avoid possible job loss.

The coordinator of the association, Mr Adedayo Adekunle, made the call while addressing a news conference in Osogbo.

Adekunle said that the stay-at-home order by NULGE for local government staff in the state over the last seven months was unnecessary.

Ogungbangbe, however, said that the directive by a factional member of the union that local government workers should resume on Monday should be disregarded.

He also said that factional members of the union, who were calling on workers to resume, had been suspended indefinitely from the union for anti-union activities.

The chairman said that the stand of the leadership of NULGE on the matter was in defense of democracy and the rule of law.

‘It is highly consequential to note that the state NULGE Executives have not directed our members to resume work.

‘It is also important to note that no screening can be done in the Local Government Service without the supervision of the Osun State Local Government Service Commission.

‘Therefore, the leadership of the union is appealing to all our educative and well-informed esteemed members not to hearken to the call for resumption,’ he said.