From a pastor\u2019s emotional appeal over a key Abuja recreational space to rising geopolitical tension in the Strait of Hormuz, and from major political realignments ahead of 2027 to evacuation plans for Nigerians in South Africa and corporate rebuttals in Nigeria\u2019s business space, today\u2019s headlines cut across governance, security, diplomacy and the economy.\n<\/p>\n
While Pastor Sarah Omakwu urged authorities to preserve public land in the FCT, Iran cautioned against US maritime moves, as opposition figures reshaped alliances.\n<\/p>\n
Meanwhile, evacuation efforts intensified amid xenophobic tensions abroad, and Dangote Group addressed circulating claims about its leadership.\n<\/p>\n
Here\u2019s your complete morning roundup:<\/p>\n
1. Abuja pastor Omakwu kneels, begs Wike over Jabi Lake land<\/p>\n
Mounting concern over public space preservation in the Federal Capital Territory has emerged as Senior Pastor of Family Worship Centre, Sarah Omakwu, appealed to the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, to halt any plans to allocate the Jabi Lake recreation area for private development.\n<\/p>\n
The cleric, in a widely circulated video, was seen kneeling while urging authorities to preserve the site, citing its social and economic value to residents who use it for leisure, business and community activities.\n<\/p>\n
Omakwu stressed the importance of maintaining the space for public use, saying, \u201cI cannot fight the minister of the FCT. I cannot. But I go on my knees as a mother in this land that Jabi Lake Recreation Centre should not be given to anybody.\u201d She added, \u201cI beg you, Mr. Minister, in the name of God, as a mother, to not sell that land to anybody.\u201d<\/p>\n
Her appeal comes months after the FCT Administration entered into partnerships with private firms to upgrade the facility and boost tourism.\n<\/p>\n
While commending ongoing infrastructure development, she urged authorities to reconsider, warning against restricting access to public spaces.\n<\/p>\n
Read here:\n<\/p>\n
Abuja pastor Omakwu kneels, begs Wike over Jabi Lake land<\/a><\/p>\n 2. Xenophobia: 130 Nigerians sign up for S\u2019Africa evacuation\n<\/p>\n Amid growing concerns over anti-foreigner protests in South Africa, at least 130 Nigerians have registered for voluntary evacuation flights as part of government efforts to ensure citizens\u2019 safety.<\/p>\n The move follows rising tensions and reports of attacks linked to xenophobic sentiments in parts of the country.\n<\/p>\n The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, confirmed the development, stating, \u201cSo far, 130 applicants have duly registered for the exercise with our mission.\u201d\n<\/p>\n She added, \u201cThe President has reiterated that the priority at this time remains the safety of our citizens.\u201d\n<\/p>\n Authorities also confirmed diplomatic engagement with South Africa, including summoning its acting High Commissioner. While recent protests were largely peaceful, two deaths involving Nigerians have raised concern, prompting calls for justice and increased protection.\n<\/p>\n Read here:\n<\/p>\n Xenophobia: 130 Nigerians sign up for S\u2019Africa evacuation<\/a><\/p>\n 3. 2027: Obi, Kwankwaso join NDC, demand litigation-free politics\n<\/p>\n Fresh political realignments ahead of the 2027 elections gained momentum as former presidential candidate Peter Obi and ex-Kano governor Rabiu Kwankwaso formally joined the Nigeria Democratic Congress, calling for an end to internal party disputes and litigation.\n<\/p>\n Their move follows Obi\u2019s exit from the African Democratic Congress, citing persistent crises. <\/p>\n Obi emphasised the need for stability, stating, \u201cWe are coming here to be part of the peaceful family that will work hard to build a united, secure, prosperous Nigeria.\u201d\n<\/p>\n He added, \u201cPlease, let there be no litigation. Party members, please don\u2019t go to court.\u201d\n<\/p>\n Kwankwaso echoed similar sentiments, highlighting alignment in ideology and governance priorities. The development drew reactions from the Presidency and the APC, with officials criticising Obi\u2019s shifting party affiliations, underscoring intensifying political positioning ahead of 2027.\n<\/p>\n Read here:<\/p>\n 2027: Obi, Kwankwaso join NDC, demand litigation-free politics<\/a><\/p>\n 4. Dangote denies rift with Elumelu, funding claims\n<\/p>\n Fresh controversy surrounding Nigeria\u2019s business landscape has been dismissed by the Dangote Group, which refuted claims of a rift between its president, Aliko Dangote, and Heirs Holdings Chairman, Tony Elumelu, as well as allegations regarding refinery financing.\n<\/p>\n The company described the circulating report as false, stating, \u201cThe Dangote Group has become aware of a publication\u2026 which is false, malicious, and baseless.\u201d It added, \u201cAt no time did the President or the Group make such statements or express such sentiments.\u201d\n<\/p>\n The group also rejected claims that the refinery project was funded through personal borrowing, insisting such assertions were inaccurate. It warned against the spread of fabricated content and unauthorised use of Dangote\u2019s identity, stressing its commitment to protecting its reputation and maintaining transparency in its operations.\n<\/p>\n Read here:<\/p>\n