Hello and welcome! In today’s trending news stories;
1. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has declared former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello wanted for alleged economic and financial offenses totaling N80.2 billion. Despite failed attempts to arrest him, Bello has been put on the watchlist by the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) to prevent him from leaving the country, and the Inspector General of Police has withdrawn all police officers attached to him. Bello’s camp has criticized the EFCC’s actions as a political witch-hunt, while the Attorney General of the Federation emphasized the importance of cooperation with the EFCC’s investigations.
2. Abdulazeez Ganduje, son of the suspended APC national chairman Abdullahi Ganduje, visited the Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission to express solidarity with its chairman, Muhyi Rimingado, and endorse the corruption charges against his own family. Abdulazeez also raised concerns about his removal as a director from a company involved in the corruption trial. Previously, he had filed a corruption petition against his mother, Hafsat Ganduje, alleging involvement in a land acquisition scheme. The commission had initiated legal action against Abdullahi Ganduje, his wife, son, and others for corruption and misappropriation of funds totaling billions of naira.
3. The Nigerian naira maintained its value against the US dollar in the black market but experienced a slight decline in the official market due to mixed US economic data. In the parallel market, the naira strengthened to N1,060 per dollar, while in the Nigerian Foreign Exchange Market (NAFEM), it decreased to N1,154.08 per dollar. Despite this, the naira has seen a 12 percent increase in value in April, following favorable monetary policies enforced by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). Goldman Sachs projected further strengthening of the naira below N1000 per dollar if these policies continue.
4. The Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) sealed 4U Supermarket in Abuja on Thursday due to unfair practices by its management. The action was taken during an enforcement exercise in the nation’s capital. FCCPC officials also initiated a campaign to enforce price display and quantity compliance at several supermarkets in Abuja in response to consumer concerns about rising costs of goods despite the recent strengthening of the naira against major currencies. Price discrepancies remain a significant issue according to the Commission.
5. Casemiro revealed that Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti cried when he learned of Casemiro’s decision to join Manchester United in August 2022. Despite doubts, Casemiro left Madrid after nine successful years for an initial £60 million transfer. Ancelotti’s emotional reaction made Casemiro realize people’s affection for him in Madrid, but he prioritized his word and commitment. Despite winning numerous titles with Madrid, Casemiro felt it was time for a new experience and has no regrets about his decision, feeling welcomed and valued at Manchester United.
6. A viral video on social media shows an unidentified cleric brandishing an AK47 inside a church, dressed in a white robe, and firing a shot while congregants watch. The location of the church is unknown. In a similar incident last February, Pastor Uche Aigbe of House on the Rock Church in Abuja caused controversy by carrying an AK-47 rifle during a sermon. He explained it was to illustrate a message about spiritual warfare but faced condemnation and was detained. House on the Rock Church apologized for the incident, stating that carrying the gun was regrettable and against their stance on non-violence. They are cooperating with authorities and ensuring such incidents do not recur.
7. Davido’s Timeless Tour which was held at Madison Square Garden wowed fans with an electrifying performance on April 17, 2024. At the sold-out concert, he treated fans to an assembly of his hit singles, including tracks from his record-breaking fourth album, ‘Timeless.’ Additionally, Davido reportedly donated $50,000 to clear a fan’s student loan, further endearing himself to his audience. The historic concert at Madison Square Garden secures Davido’s place alongside Burna Boy and Wizkid as the third Nigerian artist to headline the renowned arena.
