IMO BREAKING NEWS BLOG

Kebbi State Governor, Dr. Nasir Idris, has firmly denied rumours of his planned defection from the All Progressives Congress (APC), describing them as “ridiculously malicious” and driven by “political comedians.”

In a statement on Sunday, Idris, popularly known as Kauran Gwandu, reiterated his commitment to the APC, declaring, “I am made in APC, by APC, and for APC,” and vowed to be “the last man standing” in the party.

Reacting to social media claims linking him to a coalition allegedly led by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Idris stressed his loyalty to President Bola Tinubu’s vision and his dedication to delivering good governance in Kebbi.

The governor, through his Chief Press Secretary, Ahmed Idris, dismissed the defection rumours as baseless, reaffirming Kebbi State’s status as an APC stronghold and pledging unwavering service to the people. 

The Adamawa State Pension Board has commenced a statewide verification exercise for pensioners to update records, eliminate discrepancies, and improve service delivery.

Speaking at the launch, the Board’s Executive Chairman, Ibrahim V. Abba, described the exercise as a vital routine aimed at safeguarding the integrity of the pension system, not targeting individuals. He assured that the process would ensure accurate and timely payment of entitlements.

Abba commended Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri for his unwavering support for retirees, calling the initiative a major step in addressing longstanding pension issues.

To ease the process, the Board has established designated verification centers and deployed trained personnel to assist elderly and vulnerable pensioners. Abba urged retirees to cooperate and report any challenges to help desks set up at the centers, assuring them of a smooth and transparent exercise. 

Tears flowed in Otobi Akpa, Benue State, on Sunday as 11 victims of the April 15 suspected herdsmen attack were laid to rest in a mass burial.

The community, overwhelmed with grief, described the tragedy as unprecedented in Akpa’s history. Families who lost multiple members struggled with the trauma, as the arrival of the white caskets plunged mourners into wailing.

Security operatives at the burial were visibly moved.

Community leader, Emaikwu Ode, lamented the rising violence, recalling peaceful coexistence with Fulani herders in the past. He warned that continued attacks could spark wider conflict if not addressed.

Ode also disclosed that some residents remain missing following the attack. Of the 15 victims killed, four non-indigenes were buried in their hometowns. 

Annie Macaulay, estranged wife of Nigerian music legend Innocent "2Baba" Idibia, publicly confirmed their divorce on Sunday night at the 17th Headies Awards.

While presenting the Best Afrobeat Singer of the Year award alongside Farooq Oreagba, Annie introduced herself, correcting a slip: “Annie Idi... Oh sorry, Annie Macaulay. Hey, single ladies!” — a move that drew cheers from the audience.

The actress had earlier hinted at the separation in March by reverting to her maiden name, Annie Uwana Macaulay, on Instagram, dropping the "Idibia" surname.

Annie and 2Baba, who share two children, officially ended their marriage in January 2025 after 2Baba publicly announced their split.

Shortly after, 2Baba proposed to Edo lawmaker Natasha Osawaru and has since introduced her to his family in Benue State, fuelling wedding speculation. 

Bishop T.D. Jakes on Sunday announced he is stepping down as lead pastor of The Potter’s House, handing over leadership to his daughter, Sarah Jakes Roberts, and her husband, Toure Roberts.

The transition, years in planning, was finalized months after Jakes suffered a massive heart attack while preaching.

Fighting back tears, Jakes told the congregation, “I cannot afford, especially after November, to risk something happening to me and you be sheep without a shepherd."

Sarah Jakes Roberts, set to take over in July, expressed her gratitude, saying, “I’m honored, as your daughter."

Jakes founded The Potter’s House in 1996. 

Rapper Odumodublvck caused a stir at the 17th Headies Awards on Sunday at the Eko Convention Centre, Lagos, after refusing to leave the stage following his Next Rated award win.

Storming the stage with his mother and over 10 supporters, Odumodublvck’s microphone was cut off mid-speech as organisers tried to manage time. However, he resisted leaving, prompting the organisers to restore his microphone to allow him finish.

In his speech, he reflected on overcoming industry barriers, crediting his success to "my Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ."

Odumodublvck beat Shallipopi, Qing Madi, Ayo Maff, and Nasboi to clinch the coveted Next Rated award, which comes with a car prize. The award was presented by Afrobeats star Davido.

Last year, Odumodublvck won Rookie of the Year at the 16th Headies in Atlanta, earning a house prize in Lagos.