Presidency Reacts To Singer Nanya’s Death

The Presidency has urged Nigerians to take extra measures to prevent snakes from invading their environments.

The Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Economic Affairs, Tope Fasua, stated this on Monday, February 2, while reacting to the death of popular Abuja singer, Ifunanya Nwangene, fondly called Nanya.

Fasua also spoke on anti-venom shortages which many attributed to the singer’s death.

While sympathising with the deceased’s family for the loss, he wrote, “We are in snake season. When there is heat, they come out. They sunbathe. Then they like hiding inside houses. They live in ecosystems. They also never work together. So, seeing two inside one room is really odd. They snack on each other,” Fasua said.

Ifunanya, also fondly called the “Soprano Queen”, died on Saturday after she was reportedly bitten by a Cobra at her residence in Lugbe, a surburb of the Federal Capital Territory.

The incident, which occurred in the early hours of the day, has since sparked intense public debate, with many Nigerians questioning how a preventable death could happen in the nation’s capital if life-saving anti-venom medications are available.

The singer reportedly booked her rider to Divine Health Hospital, located at the Trade Fair Mall in Lugbe but she was allegedly told that the facility did not have anti-venom and could not treat her. She proceeded to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Jabi, afterwards at about 10 a.m.

Speaking further on the incident, Fasua said, “Not everything is politics. Your whining candidate will not provide anti venom for all hospitals, private and public. Presidents are not for petty work but big policies. A president is not a medicine hawker. If he’s going around weeping with every mourner and checking every hospital for anti-venom, he won’t have time to think. And what about other lifesaving drug? How many will we pursue?” he said.

He urged Nigerians to keep their environment safe from snake.

“If you have rats or toads around or thick carpet bushes, you are creating an ecosystem. Block under your door. And invest in fumigation at times like this especially. Jack your landlord to do the needful or cooperate with other tenants. Dogs can also help. They kill snakes. Cats don’t. Keep learning. Open your eyes always to notice creepy crawlers. Stay clean. Keep places lighted too,” he added.

Why Awujale Vacant Stool Nominations Meeting Was Postponed-The Ruling House

Facts emerged on Sunday on why the nomination meeting of candidates for the vacant stool of the Awujale and paramount ruler of Ijebuland was put on hold by the Fusengbuwa ruling house.

The PUNCH Online also learnt that no fewer than 60 candidates are jostling to become the next Awujale.

Recall that the Fusengbuwa ruling house, which is next in line to produce the Awujale of Ijebuland following the death of Oba Sikiru Adetona at the age of 91 in July 2025, had last Thursday formally announced that the nomination meeting would hold on Monday.

The announcement was contained in a letter dated December 11, 2025, and signed by the family’s spokesman, Abiodun Ogidan.

The meeting was scheduled to hold at Bisrod Hall, GRA, Ijebu-Ode in Ogun State.

The ruling house outlined strict protocols for the exercise, emphasising that only accredited family members would be allowed entry.

It also stated that each candidate contesting for the vacant stool would be represented by two family members, with one nominating the candidate and the other seconding the nomination.

The ruling house further directed that candidates themselves would not be part of the nomination meeting, but would instead be represented by their nominees.

Family members and accredited representatives were also urged to conduct themselves with utmost peace, respect and orderliness befitting the sacred process.

However, in another statement issued on Friday by the Nomination Committee, the ruling house announced the postponement of the meeting.

Titled “To All Members of Fusengbuwa Ruling House, Ijebu-Ode,” the statement read in part: “Due to circumstances beyond the family’s control, the Fusengbuwa Ruling House Awujale nomination meeting scheduled for Monday, December 15, 2025, has been postponed.

“The new date will be announced shortly. We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.”

Speaking exclusively with our correspondent on Sunday, the Chairman of the Fusengbuwa ruling house and former National President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, Otunba Abdulateef Owoyemi, said the meeting was put on hold following an intervention by the state government to prevent procedural errors that could result in litigation.

Owoyemi explained that the ruling house was summoned to a meeting by the state government on Tuesday to review the steps taken so far and ensure compliance with extant laws.

He dismissed insinuations that the postponement was connected to the candidature of Fuji musician, Alhaji Wasiu Ayinde, popularly known as KWAM1, whom the ruling house had reportedly said was not a member of the Fusengbuwa ruling house and therefore not qualified to contest.

“The postponement of the nomination meeting has nothing to do with any individual, far from that,” Owoyemi said.

“What actually happened is that we received a summons from the state government for a meeting on Tuesday. The meeting is to ensure that everything is done properly so that the selection process does not become a fertile ground for litigation or generate legal controversy.

“It is a matter of comparing notes and ensuring that we cross our Ts and dot our Is. We appreciate this because it will improve our standards and ensure that the process is flawless. There is nothing to worry about.”

The Vice Chairman of the ruling house, Prof. Fassy Yusuf, also confirmed on Sunday that the ruling house and the kingmakers had been invited to a meeting with the government on Tuesday, necessitating the postponement of the nomination meeting.

Prof. Yusuf said the number of princes aspiring to succeed the late Awujale, Oba Adetona, was not fewer than 60.

Speaking on the phone, the Professor of Mass Communication at the University of Lagos said, “There are certain things we have not done, so the government has scheduled a meeting with us for Tuesday. The government will meet with the ruling house, the kingmakers and the Awujale Interregnum Committee.

“It is to ensure that everything is in order, and the outcome of this meeting will determine when next we will hold the nomination meeting.

“The postponement has nothing to do with anyone. Whoever is saying that is only being mischievous and spreading falsehood. So far, about 60 people are in the race to become the next Awujale.”

Efforts to find a successor to the late Oba Adetona, who reigned for 65 years before his death in July 2025, had recently gathered momentum after the local government reportedly gave the ruling house 14 days to present candidates for the throne.

Ned Nwoko: Her Mother (Rita) Brought Regina Daniels For Marriage

According to a report in Daily Post Newspaper on Wednesday 12th November, Senator Ned Nwoko, representing Delta North Senatorial District, has refuted claims that he chased after his estranged wife, Nollywood actress Regina Daniels, for marriage.

Reacting to the backlash and widespread criticism surrounding his six-year union with the actress, Nwoko clarified that he never approached Regina but that her mother, Rita Daniels, was the one who introduced and brought her for marriage.

His statement comes amid growing public debate over the couple’s separation, following Regina’s recent allegations of domestic abuse and her declaration that she was no longer interested in continuing the marriage.

In response, Nwoko accused the actress of substance abuse and insisted she must undergo rehabilitation, a claim that further fueled online controversy.

The situation has sparked outrage among Nigerians, including celebrities, many of whom condemned the senator for allegedly marrying Regina when she was 17 years old, calling his actions “predatory” and urging him to resign from office.

Addressing the claims through a statement issued by his Communication and Technical Action Team to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Nwoko denied any wrongdoing and clarified the timeline of their marriage.

“For clarity, Regina Daniels was born on October 10, 2000. If she has been married to me for six years, that means she got married at 19, not 17,” the statement read.

“The public witnessed her family giving her away in marriage. There were witnesses to the fact that her mother personally brought her to me. I never went after her,” he added.

The ongoing drama between the senator and the popular actress continues to dominate social media conversations, with fresh revelations surfacing almost daily.

BREAKING: Court Gives Nnamdi Kanu Fresh Deadline to Open Defence or Lose Right

The Federal High Court in Abuja has given the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, a final deadline to open his defence in the terrorism charges brought against him by the Federal Government or forfeit the right to do so.

Kanu, however, maintained in open court on Wednesday that there were no valid charges against him and insisted he would not enter any defence over what he described as a charge filed under a repealed law.

Presiding Judge, Justice James Omotosho, granted the fresh extension until November 7 “in the interest of justice,” saying the opportunity was for the benefit of both the defendant and the country.

During the proceedings, instead of commencing his defence, Kanu challenged the validity of the charges. He argued that the Supreme Court, in its earlier judgment directing his trial, had mandated the Federal Government to amend the charge, as the original law under which he was charged had been repealed. He stated that the prosecution had failed to comply with this directive.

“The Terrorism Prevention and Prohibition Act has been repealed. I cannot enter a defence under a repealed law. I will not do that,” Kanu insisted.

Justice Omotosho advised him to reserve his arguments for the appropriate stage, but Kanu declined, reiterating his position that there was no legal basis for the trial to proceed.

At one point, Kanu indicated readiness to open his defence but requested time to consult with his four legal consultants—Nnaemeka Ejiofor, Aloy Ejimakor, Maxwell Okpara and Mandela Umegborogu.

The judge then urged him again to seek guidance from legal practitioners familiar with criminal procedure.

Earlier, counsel to the Federal Government, Adegboyega Awomolo (SAN), had asked the court to enforce its earlier order requiring Kanu to open his defence or waive the right entirely.

However, Justice Omotosho stated that he was willing to extend time once more, giving Kanu another chance to reconsider his stand before deciding whether to defend the charges or forgo that right.

Answering Questions on Alleged Christians Genocide in Nigeria- Muhammad Idris

Nigeria remains a secular state where freedom of religion is guaranteed
Nigeria remains a secular state where freedom of religion is guaranteed by the constitution

The Alleged Christians Genocide in Nigeria is far from being truth, Minister of Information, Muhammed Idris is currently answering question on alleged genocide in Nigeria. The social media users have flooded X (formerly Twitter) with reactions after Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, Muhammad Idris, appeared on CNN to address claims of a supposed genocide against Christians in the country.

The televised interview, which sparked widespread debate, was shared by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Information and Strategy, through his verified X account.

The controversy began after some international media organizations published reports alleging that Christians were being deliberately targeted and persecuted in Nigeria. Responding to these reports during his CNN appearance, Minister Idris firmly rejected the claims, describing them as misleading and unfounded.

He emphasized that Nigeria remains a secular state where freedom of religion is guaranteed by the constitution and respected by the government.

According to Idris, both Muslims and Christians enjoy the right to practice their faith freely without discrimination. He acknowledged, however, that the country has faced years of insecurity linked to insurgent groups such as Boko Haram and other criminal organizations.

The minister noted that the federal government has made significant progress in addressing these threats over the past two years through sustained military operations and community-based peace initiatives.

In the segment shared online, Idris stated that since 2012, Nigeria has endured numerous security challenges but has never engaged in or endorsed violence against any religious community. He reassured the international community that President Tinubu’s administration remains committed to ensuring safety, unity, and peaceful coexistence among all Nigerians.

Following the video’s release, thousands of Nigerians took to social media to express their opinions, with reactions ranging from support for the minister’s clarification to criticism over the government’s handling of ongoing security issues.

Breaking: Several Injury As Police Attack #FreeNmadiKanu Protesters

A peaceful protest calling for the release of detained Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) leader, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, turned violent on Monday after security operatives fired tear gas canisters at demonstrators led by human rights activist Omoyele Sowore in the Maitama and Transcorp Hilton areas of Abuja.

The protesters, including clergymen, members of civil society groups, and pro-democracy activists, had gathered under the banner of the #FreeNnamdiKanuNow movement to demand Kanu’s immediate release in compliance with a 2022 Court of Appeal judgment.

Eyewitnesses said the protesters had barely begun chanting solidarity songs when heavily armed police officers and soldiers moved in, firing multiple rounds of tear gas to disperse the crowd.

“There were no violent acts; people were only singing and holding placards when the police suddenly started shooting tear gas,” an eyewitness told Politics Nigeria. “Many people were injured, and even passersby were affected by the fumes.”

The protest, which began around the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) headquarters in Maitama before spreading towards the Transcorp Hilton area, quickly descended into chaos as security personnel sealed off adjoining streets and fired indiscriminately.

Videos from the scene showed protesters and commuters scampering for safety as thick plumes of smoke filled the air. Some journalists covering the protest were reportedly manhandled, while several protesters sustained injuries.

Security sources confirmed that the operation was a joint effort by the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigerian Army. The security agencies had, on Sunday, issued warnings cautioning demonstrators against marching toward restricted areas such as the Presidential Villa, Eagle Square, and the Three Arms Zone.

Despite the warnings, Sowore and other organisers vowed to go ahead with the protest, accusing the government of violating court orders and suppressing lawful dissent.

“We are here to demand the release of Nnamdi Kanu, whose continued detention is in defiance of valid court judgments,” Sowore said moments before the police crackdown. “Instead of respecting the rule of law, they’ve chosen brutality and intimidation.”

Barrister Njoku Jude Njoku, a member of the Nnamdi Kanu Defence Consortium, condemned the police action and reiterated that Kanu’s detention remained illegal.

In a statement titled “#ReleaseNnamdiKanu – The Law Is Clear!”, Njoku said:

“Mazi Nnamdi Kanu’s detention isn’t just unlawful—it’s a national embarrassment. The government is disobeying its own courts and violating the Constitution. The Court of Appeal discharged and acquitted him in October 2022. That judgment stands, yet he remains in custody. This is pure contempt.”

He further accused the Supreme Court of “twisting justice” by reversing the appellate decision, describing the move as a breach of Section 36(9) of the Nigerian Constitution, which prohibits double jeopardy.

“You cannot try a man twice for the same offence,” he added. “They are even using a repealed version of the Terrorism Act to continue his trial. It’s unlawful and morally indefensible.”

Meanwhile, heavy security presence remains around strategic parts of the Federal Capital Territory, including Eagle Square, Unity Fountain, Federal Secretariat, and the approach roads to Aso Rock.

Hilda Baci Bags Guinness World Record For Largest Pot Of Jollof Rice

According to Daily post, Nigerian celebrity chef Hilda Baci has officially been recognized by the Guinness World Records (GWR) as the holder of the record for the largest pot of jollof rice ever cooked. The confirmation, announced on Saturday, marks a historic moment for Nigeria’s culinary industry and adds another feather to the cap of the 27-year-old chef, who has become a household name for her bold exploits in the kitchen.

According to the Guinness World Records adjudicators, Hilda successfully prepared a giant pot of jollof rice weighing several tonnes, using 4,000kg of rice, 612kg of oil, and an array of spices, tomatoes, and proteins. The attempt was carefully monitored by GWR officials, nutritionists, and independent witnesses to ensure compliance with the strict rules governing record-breaking feats.

Speaking after receiving her certificate, Hilda expressed her excitement and gratitude for the global recognition, noting that her achievement was not just personal but a victory for Nigeria and Africa as a whole.

“This record is for every young person who has ever been told their dreams are too big,” Hilda said. “I wanted to show the world that Nigerians can achieve anything they set their minds to. Jollof rice is more than just food — it is part of our culture, our pride, and our identity.”

The event, held in Lagos, drew thousands of supporters, including celebrities, food enthusiasts, and government officials. Many turned out not only to witness the historic cooking attempt but also to enjoy free servings of the jollof rice, which was later distributed to communities around Gbagada and beyond.

Guinness World Records representatives praised Hilda’s discipline, organization, and commitment to hygiene and safety throughout the attempt. They also acknowledged the humanitarian angle of the project, which ensured that no food was wasted.

Social media platforms have since been flooded with congratulatory messages, with Nigerians across the world hailing the recognition as a much-needed positive story. Many described it as proof that the country, despite its challenges, can still inspire the world through creativity and resilience.

With this new record, Hilda Baci joins the league of Nigerians who have earned global acclaim through Guinness World Records, cementing her place as a cultural ambassador for Nigerian cuisine.