Hello and welcome! In today’s trending news stories;
1. President Bola Tinubu has directed security agencies to stop the ongoing killings in Benue State, following the death of over 100 people in an attack in Yelwata, Guma Local Government Area. His spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, said senior officers have been sent to the state to take charge of operations. The President also asked Governor Hyacinth Alia to bring together community leaders, farmers, and herders for dialogue aimed at ending the violence. He warned that those who encourage conflict through their actions or words would be held responsible.
Pope Leo XIV also spoke about the attack, calling it a “terrible massacre” and praying for those affected. He noted that many victims were being sheltered by a local Catholic mission. In response to the killings, protests took place in Makurdi. Some protesters blocked roads and set a truck on fire, killing the driver. Police later arrested 14 people and said more arrests will follow. Authorities promised to allow peaceful protests but said violent actions would not be tolerated.
2. Nobel Laureate Professor Wole Soyinka has called on President Bola Tinubu to initiate fresh investigations into unresolved political assassinations, including those of journalist Dele Giwa, former Attorney-General Bola Ige, and pro-democracy activist Kudirat Abiola. Speaking in Lagos on the sidelines of Democracy Day events, Soyinka said Nigerians may still hold valuable information that could help uncover the truth behind these killings. He stressed the importance of justice and national closure.
While acknowledging the government’s recognition of key pro-democracy figures, Soyinka pointed out that some important individuals were left out. He announced he would dedicate his own national honour to the late Dr. Beko Ransom-Kuti, praising him as a fearless advocate for human rights and democracy. Soyinka also warned against forgetting the cost of Nigeria’s democratic journey, reminding the public of the arrests, torture, and bloodshed that marked the June 12 struggle.
3. Nigerian banks face pressure as the CBN ends COVID-era loan reliefs, suspending dividends and offshore investments for affected banks. With N3.77 trillion in loan impairments since 2023, the move may lower profits, strain capital, and raise non-performing loan (NPL) ratios, especially for banks heavily exposed to oil and gas. While most banks have strong buffers, some like UBA and FBNH may struggle if economic conditions worsen.
4. Iran fired missiles at the Israeli cities of Tel Aviv and Haifa early Monday, killing at least eight people and injuring over 100. The attack damaged homes, a school, and areas near a market and the U.S. Embassy. It was part of Iran’s response to Israeli strikes on its nuclear and missile facilities.
Israel’s total deaths have risen to 23, all civilians. Iran reports at least 224 deaths from Israeli attacks, most of them civilians as well. Iran’s military claimed to have used a new tactic to bypass Israel’s defense systems, though details were not given. Israel’s defence minister condemned the attack and warned that Iran’s capital, Tehran, would face consequences. As leaders met at the G7 summit in Canada, there was growing concern that the conflict could intensify further.
5. Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen is reportedly close to joining Manchester United, with personal terms already agreed including a pre-tax weekly wage of £660,000. Negotiations are ongoing between United, Napoli, and Osimhen’s camp, though no official confirmation has been made. Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis has confirmed Osimhen will leave this summer. Sources close to the player say he prefers a move to England and is preparing for a decision soon. The potential transfer fee is estimated between €30–35 million, possibly below his €75 million release clause.
Manchester United is said to have prioritised Osimhen after Swedish striker Viktor Gyokeres declined their offer. United had considered both players as options for their lead striker role. Former defender Rio Ferdinand has backed Osimhen, citing his international and multi-league experience as a key advantage. Osimhen recently impressed on loan at Galatasaray, scoring 37 goals to help the club win the Turkish league, while Gyokeres scored over 50 goals last season in Portugal.
