Hello and welcome! In today’s trending news stories
1. A prominent People’s Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain, Richard Idowu, based in the United States, was accidentally shot and killed by a hunter in his hometown of Ejigbo, Osun State. The incident occurred during the celebration of the town’s traditional ruler’s 50th coronation anniversary. After a meeting, local hunters fired guns in celebration, and one hunter accidentally shot Idowu as he was leaving the venue. Despite efforts to rush him to the hospital, Idowu succumbed to his injuries. The hunter was shot on the spot by a security operative accompanying Idowu. A suspect, Enitan Oyesosin, has been taken into police custody, and the state government has called for calm as an investigation is underway.
2. Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, ordered the immediate arrest of traders on the completed section of the Enugu-Port Harcourt Expressway in Aba, disrupting reconstruction efforts. He criticized citizens hindering the project and called for a task force to address street trading. Umahi stressed that traders would be prosecuted for economic sabotage and urged support for President Buhari’s efforts to address economic challenges. He commended the Arab Contractors for their work on the project, which covers about 57km from Abia Tower to the Railway Crossing at Alaoji. Delays were attributed to the high cost of construction materials.
3. NNPC’s decision to pledge 440,000 barrels of crude oil per day for cash deals raises concerns about Nigeria’s oil wealth and future planning. Despite being Africa’s largest oil producer, the country struggles to extract sufficient value from its reserves. Experts criticize NNPC for prioritizing immediate cash over long-term financial stability, especially as the nation faces challenges in the oil and gas industry. The recent financial report reveals a $2.76 billion investment in the Dangote refinery, funded through a forward sale agreement of future crude oil. Critics argue that borrowing a stake in a private refinery is not a wise use of public funds. The country’s production shortfall and underinvestment pose threats to its oil sector and government revenues.
4. Egypt faced more heartbreak in the Africa Cup of Nations as DR Congo won in a penalty shootout, securing a spot in the quarter-finals. The match ended 1-1 in regular time, with Mostafa Mohamed equalizing Meschack Elia’s opener. Despite dominating possession, Egypt struggled to create chances. The game went into extra time, and Egypt played with 10 men after Mohamed Hamdy’s red card. The shootout ended 8-7 in favor of DR Congo, with goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi scoring the winning penalty. Egypt’s Mostafa Mohamed missed a penalty in the shootout. The defeat follows Egypt’s shootout loss to Senegal in the 2021 tournament final.
5. Napoli striker Victor Osimhen, a key player for the Super Eagles in the Africa Cup of Nations, has been selected for random drug tests by the Confederation of African Football (CAF). The tests took place after matches against Cote d’Ivoire and Cameroon, making it twice in four games. Osimhen played a crucial role in Nigeria’s victories, winning a penalty against Cote d’Ivoire and delivering a strong performance against Cameroon, setting up a goal and being a constant threat. Despite being tested, Osimhen is expected to lead Nigeria in the quarter-finals against Angola.
6. Former Super Eagles midfielder Etim Esin has called on the current national team to win the AFCON quarter-final against Angola in memory of the late Sam Okwaraji. Okwaraji tragically passed away during a 1990 World Cup qualifier against Angola on August 12, 1989. Esin, Okwaraji’s former teammate, expressed the importance of victory to honor the talented midfielder. He recalled the dreams they had for the 1990 World Cup and hopes the current Eagles will secure a win, just as they did 35 years ago with a 1-0 scoreline. Esin highlighted Okwaraji’s commitment to the team, including paying his airfares and refusing to collect allowances from the Football Association.
7. Lil Frosh, a former signee of Davido Music Worldwide (DMW), has leaked a chat with his ex-girlfriend, Cute Gemini, pleading for reconciliation after she accused him of assault. Lil Frosh claims the assault allegations from two years ago were a set-up by his ex-girlfriend. He shared the leaked chat where Cute Gemini apologizes and expresses a desire to get back together. Lil Frosh, in his social media post, asserts his innocence, apologizes for his mistakes, and begs for another chance from Davido. Following Lil Frosh’s plea, Davido has followed him back on Instagram.
