Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced that he would be speaking with United States President Donald Trump on Wednesday to discuss details of Trump’s recent call with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Zelenskyy made this statement during a news conference in Helsinki, alongside Finnish President Alexander Stubb.

Zelenskyy also addressed the recent agreement between Putin and Trump to halt attacks on energy infrastructure, describing it as “very much at odds with reality,” citing ongoing drone strikes across Ukraine as evidence of continued Russian aggression.

A significant point Zelenskyy highlighted was the issue of territorial concessions, stressing that for Ukraine, “the red line” is the recognition of Ukrainian territories currently under Russian occupation as part of Russia. He firmly stated that Ukraine would not accept such a concession in any future negotiations.

Adnan Mukhtar Tudunwada, a former aspirant for the Kano House of Assembly in the 2023 general elections, has openly criticized the National Youth Leader of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Muhammad Kadade, for his failure to effectively represent and mobilize the party’s youth wing. Mukhtar, in his statement on Wednesday, accused Kadade of being disengaged and not prioritizing the needs of young Nigerians within the party.

Mukhtar specifically pointed out Kadade’s apparent lack of initiative in organizing key youth mobilization efforts, such as tours for the party’s presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, during the 2023 elections. He lamented the lack of communication and action from Kadade and claimed that the youth wing’s activities were stagnating due to his inactivity. Mukhtar also expressed disappointment over Kadade’s alleged preference for aligning with influential figures, like Nyesom Wike, rather than focusing on strengthening the party. He suggested that this misaligned loyalty was damaging the youth wing’s effectiveness.

In response, Kadade defended his performance, stating that leadership comes with challenges that are often underestimated by those outside the position. He acknowledged that leaders face criticism regardless of their efforts, and claimed that his actions during the 2023 election period were extensive. Kadade further emphasized that if he were not fulfilling his responsibilities, the party leadership would not have allowed him to continue in the position.

Kadade also took a personal swipe at Mukhtar, implying that if leadership were as easy as Mukhtar suggested, he would have been able to secure a position during the 2023 elections.

The exchange highlights internal friction within the PDP, particularly concerning the management and engagement of its youth wing. It also sheds light on the broader challenges facing political party leadership in Nigeria, where generational differences and competing loyalties can strain party unity.

The Abia State Government, under Governor Alex Otti, has taken decisive action in addressing the growing problem of kidnapping by demolishing a building in Osisioma Local Government Area, which had been used as a hideout by kidnappers. The demolition was part of a broader crackdown aimed at curbing criminal activities in the state.

Prince Okey Kanu, the Commissioner for Information, issued a stern warning to landlords in the state, urging them to conduct proper background checks on potential tenants. He lamented that many landlords prioritize rent collection over ensuring the safety and security of their communities, allowing properties to be used for criminal activities. Kanu stressed the importance of landlords maintaining proper records and being vigilant in preventing their properties from being used for unlawful purposes.

Governor Alex Otti, who has made it clear that his administration has a zero-tolerance policy toward criminal activities, also reiterated the seriousness of the state’s stance. He ordered the complete demolition of the Osokwa house and vowed to prosecute the owner for allowing criminals to use the property. Otti further stated, “Any landlord who allows criminals to use their property is as guilty as the criminals themselves.”

This move comes after a recent police operation in which six suspected kidnappers were neutralized, and four victims were rescued. Authorities also seized weapons, including AK-47 rifles, and recovered ammunition during the operation.

Governor Otti has directed the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs to collaborate with the traditional rulers in the area to ensure that communities remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities. The state government has also promised further actions against any houses or buildings linked to criminal activities, reinforcing its commitment to restoring safety and peace to the state.

Veteran Nollywood actress and politician, Hilda Dokubo, has strongly condemned President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, accusing him of attempting to seize control of the state’s economic resources. Dokubo’s comments came after President Tinubu suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and all members of the Rivers State House of Assembly for six months.

In a national address on March 18, 2025, President Tinubu explained that the state of emergency was necessary due to the ongoing political crisis in Rivers, which has led to disruptions in governance. This move has sparked mixed reactions, with some questioning the President’s motives behind suspending elected officials.

Dokubo took to her Instagram page to express her disapproval, calling the state of emergency “shameless” and accusing Tinubu of trying to take control of the state’s economic assets. She questioned the necessity of the emergency rule, especially given that the state had enjoyed peace for the past two years, and suggested that it was a move to annex the state. She further criticized the situation, saying that George Orwell’s Animal Farm should be given to every Rivers State citizen as a form of palliative.

Her comments reflect the growing discontent among certain political figures and citizens regarding the declaration of the state of emergency in Rivers State, as it raises concerns about the motivations behind the decision.

The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has expressed full support for President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, highlighting its necessity in addressing the state’s political crisis. In a statement issued by the Ministry’s Director of Information and Public Relations on Tuesday, Matawalle emphasized that this intervention is crucial for restoring stability and ensuring effective governance in Rivers State.

Matawalle pointed to the political crisis, which has severely hindered the delivery of democratic governance and impacted the welfare of the people of Rivers. He specifically cited the demolition of the State House of Assembly by Governor Siminalayi Fubara, leaving the state without a functioning legislature for over 14 months, as a key contributor to the ongoing political impasse.

The minister also referenced a recent Supreme Court ruling that reaffirmed the constitutional requirement for a functioning legislature and condemned the actions of the governor as unconstitutional. Matawalle expressed concern over rising security threats, including militant activities and vandalism, further underlining the necessity of federal intervention.

In his statement, Matawalle reassured Nigerians that the Federal Government is committed to safeguarding citizens’ safety and protecting vital infrastructure in Rivers State. He also confirmed that the Nigerian military is on high alert to secure government facilities and respond decisively to any efforts to disrupt public order.

Matawalle urged all stakeholders to cooperate with the state of emergency as an opportunity for renewed governance, hoping that it would lead to a peaceful and democratic resolution of the issues facing Rivers State, ultimately benefiting its residents.

On Tuesday, President Bola Tinubu held Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State responsible for the ongoing political crisis in the state. In a nationwide broadcast, the President expressed deep concern about the inability of political actors in the state to reach a consensus and restore peace.

Tinubu accused Governor Fubara of demolishing the State Assembly complex and failing to rebuild it for the past 15 months, despite repeated interventions from himself and other stakeholders. He further criticized the governor for dismantling the legislative arm of the state government and for neglecting to address various pressing issues, including security challenges in the state.

The President also cited disturbing security reports, particularly incidents of pipeline vandalism, which he said the governor had failed to curb. He stated that despite these challenges, the governor had not taken any significant action to address the issue, which is critical to the state’s security and economic stability. Tinubu assured the public that he had given a stern order to the security agencies to ensure the safety of the people and protect the oil pipelines.

In light of these ongoing issues, Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, emphasizing that no responsible President could stand by and allow the situation to continue without taking necessary constitutional actions. He appointed Retired Vice-Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas to take over the administrative functions of the state, signaling the need for extraordinary measures to restore governance, peace, and security in the region.

On Tuesday, the Nigerian Senate passed for first reading a bill aimed at amending the Nigerian Data Protection Act of 2023. The proposed amendment, introduced by Senator Ned Nwoko of Delta State, seeks to compel major social media platforms—such as Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, WhatsApp, YouTube, and TikTok—to establish physical offices within Nigeria.

Titled “A Bill for an Act to Amend the Nigerian Data Protection Act, 2023, Mandating the Establishment of Physical Offices within the Federal Republic of Nigeria by Social Media Platforms, and for Related Matters, 2025,” the bill also aims to regulate bloggers operating within the country. It proposes that bloggers establish verifiable offices in any Nigerian capital city, maintain proper employee records, and join a recognised association based in Abuja.

Senator Nwoko highlighted Nigeria’s significant digital presence, noting that the country ranks second globally in social media engagement with over 200 million people. He argued that having local offices is essential to ensure better regulatory oversight, easier engagement for users and businesses, and improve tax collection from these platforms.

During the Senate debate, Senate President Godswill Akpabio acknowledged the potential benefits of local offices, particularly for regulatory compliance, but also urged caution in regulating bloggers to avoid stifling online expression. He emphasized that the bill’s purpose is not to suppress social media but to improve oversight, taxation, and record-keeping.

The Senate has tasked the Committee on ICT and Cyber Security with conducting a thorough review of the bill, with a report expected in two months.

Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Nwifuru, on Tuesday, suspended three commissioners for absenteeism from official duties. The commissioners affected are Solomon Azi (Grants and Donor Agencies), Victor Chukwu (Environment), and Ikeuwa Omebe (Rural Development). They were each given a one-month suspension after failing to attend the State Executive Council meeting on Monday without prior permission.

Jude Okpor, the Commissioner for Information and State Orientation, made the announcement during a briefing about the outcomes of the executive council meeting. He explained that the governor had issued a strong warning regarding absenteeism and the lackadaisical attitude toward work, emphasizing that public servants should adhere to their responsibilities.

During their suspension, the affected commissioners will lose all the privileges associated with their offices. Additionally, Governor Nwifuru instructed contractors handling government projects in the state to expedite their work in accordance with contractual agreements. He also warned that the government would use legal measures to ensure compliance with these directives.

This move highlights the governor’s stance on holding public servants accountable for their duties and ensuring efficient governance in Ebonyi State.

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has raised concerns over the reported $10 million expenditure by his predecessor, Godwin Obaseki, on the state-owned newspaper, The Nigerian Observer. During an unscheduled visit to the newspaper’s premises on Tuesday, Okpebholo and his team were surprised to find that they could not access the buildings where machines, supposedly purchased by the previous administration, were meant to be kept.

The Nigerian Observer, which was once a vibrant media organization, was shut down by Obaseki with the intention of revamping it to compete with national dailies. However, Okpebholo’s inspection revealed that the premises were locked, and there was no staff present. The governor expressed frustration at the lack of transparency and access, indicating that the facility was not functioning as expected given the reported financial investment.

Speaking about the visit, Okpebholo said: “I visited The Observer Newspaper company to see for myself the money that was claimed to have been spent by the former governor, Godwin Obaseki, on revamping the state-owned media house. The former governor claimed to have spent $10m to revamp the newspaper house just before the elections. However, everywhere was locked, and there was nothing inside.”

The governor emphasized his commitment to accountability and the need to provide answers to the people of Edo State regarding the use of public funds. He vowed to return for another inspection to verify the presence of the machines and equipment that were reportedly bought with taxpayers’ money. Okpebholo stressed that Edo people deserve to know what happened to the funds allocated for the revamping of The Observer, and he intends to get to the bottom of the issue.

This investigation highlights the ongoing scrutiny of Obaseki’s administration and the need for transparency in the management of state resources, especially with significant public funds involved.

Peter Obi, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party, has strongly criticized President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, calling it “unconstitutional and reckless.” Obi condemned the move as a blatant disregard for the rule of law, warning that it could destabilize the country’s democratic progress.

In a statement made on Wednesday via X (formerly Twitter), Obi described the declaration as an attempt to tighten the federal government’s grip on power at all costs, equating it to a backdoor imposition of martial law in a strategic part of the country. He argued that the political situation in Rivers State did not warrant such drastic action, especially the suspension of Governor Siminlayi Fubara, his deputy, and state lawmakers.

Obi criticized the interpretation of Section 305(1) of the 1999 Constitution, which governs the declaration of a state of emergency, stating that it was a biased and unlawful move. He emphasized that a state of emergency should not be used to unilaterally remove an elected governor and called the decision a violation of democratic norms and good governance.

He further warned that such a move would set a dangerous precedent, potentially undermining the separation of powers, and fostering a culture of impunity. Obi expressed concern that the arbitrary removal of elected officials could escalate Nigeria’s already existing issues with electoral integrity and political instability.

In light of this, Obi urged the National Assembly and all relevant stakeholders to challenge the state of emergency, asserting that allowing it to stand would further erode the foundations of democracy and the rule of law in Nigeria.

Dr. Reuben Abati, a seasoned journalist and former Senior Adviser on Media and Publicity to ex-President Goodluck Jonathan, has accused President Bola Tinubu of committing an impeachable offense after he declared a state of emergency in Rivers State. Abati, speaking on Arise Television’s Morning Show, argued that Tinubu’s actions violated the Nigerian Constitution, specifically Section 305, which governs the declaration of a state of emergency.

Abati raised several constitutional concerns regarding Tinubu’s proclamation. He pointed out that Section 305 of the Constitution outlines the conditions under which a state of emergency can be declared, including situations where there is a threat of war or chaos, or when a state governor fails to address a crisis. However, Abati questioned whether these conditions were met in Rivers State and emphasized that the President’s actions were not in line with the provisions of the Constitution. He noted that for a state of emergency to be valid, the proclamation must be gazetted, and the National Assembly must act within a set time frame.

Abati also highlighted that the President had exceeded his constitutional powers by claiming the right to make laws for the Rivers State House of Assembly and giving the appointed administrator the power to make regulations. He stated that only the National Assembly has the authority to make laws for a state House of Assembly during a state of emergency, as outlined in Section 11 of the Constitution. By overstepping these boundaries, Abati argued, President Tinubu had acted like a dictator, which he believes is an impeachable offense.

Furthermore, Abati pointed out that under Section 188 of the Constitution, a governor can only be removed through a formal impeachment process by the state House of Assembly, not by the President’s proclamation. He concluded that Tinubu had acted unilaterally and in violation of the constitutional provisions that govern the functioning of Nigeria’s federal structure.

Abati’s statements call into question the legality of Tinubu’s actions and suggest that the President’s advisors may not have properly guided him on the constitutional requirements surrounding such a significant decision.

The case involving Nigerian Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has sparked significant debate and raised questions about gender equality and power dynamics in Nigerian politics. Akpoti-Uduaghan, who represents the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), alleges that she was sexually harassed by Senate President Godswill Akpabio. She has shared that the harassment began in 2023 during a visit to Akpabio’s country home, where she claims he made suggestive comments and gestures. She also alleges that the harassment continued with sexist remarks in the Senate, with Akpabio and other senators laughing and dismissing her concerns.

Akpoti-Uduaghan’s accusations have led to her suspension for six months by the Senate, following an ethics committee ruling that she was “unruly and disruptive.” This has sparked widespread criticism, particularly from civil society groups and women’s rights activists who argue that her suspension is retaliatory for speaking out against sexual harassment in a male-dominated political environment. Akpoti-Uduaghan herself has said that the Senate operates like a “cult,” where dissent is not tolerated, and that she now fears for her safety, especially after her security detail was removed.

Akpoti-Uduaghan’s petition to the Senate, which sought to address the harassment allegations, was dismissed due to “procedural errors.” However, she remains determined to continue speaking out about what she believes is a pattern of mistreatment of women in Nigerian politics. She has stated that her legal battle is not just for her own justice but for other women who may be experiencing similar harassment but lack the courage to speak up.

The case also highlights the deep gender disparity in Nigeria’s political system. Of the 109 members of the Senate, only four are women, and Akpoti-Uduaghan is the first female senator from her state. This unequal representation, coupled with the hostile treatment she has faced, underscores the challenges women face in Nigerian politics.

Despite facing criticism, misogynistic abuse, and personal threats, Akpoti-Uduaghan remains resolute in her pursuit of justice. She has received support from other female politicians and women’s rights groups, both in Nigeria and abroad, who see her as a symbol of resilience for women fighting for a voice in male-dominated political spheres.

The recent escalation in Gaza comes after Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced the resumption of combat operations, stating that the fighting would continue “in full force” and that “this is just the beginning.” Overnight air strikes reportedly killed at least 13 people, including civilians, and targeted what Israel described as Hamas military sites, along with vessels controlled by Hamas. These strikes are a continuation of the recent military actions that have seen significant casualties, including over 400 people killed in Israeli strikes on Tuesday alone.

The latest violence follows a fragile ceasefire and hostage exchange agreement that was supposed to be in the second phase of negotiations, which has yet to materialize. The proposed second phase would involve a withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza, but Israel and the US have pushed for an extension of the first phase instead. Netanyahu’s government emphasizes the return of hostages and the defeat of Hamas as the main objectives of the operation.

This escalation raises concerns about the prospects of a prolonged conflict, as regional mediators push for Hamas to release more Israeli hostages in exchange for a de-escalation. However, Netanyahu has made it clear that future ceasefire talks will happen “under fire,” signaling that Israel intends to continue its military actions as part of its broader strategy in the region.

The situation in Yemen remains tense, with recent reports indicating that the US has launched no fewer than 10 strikes targeting areas in Yemen, including Saada province and Hodeidah. These strikes are believed to have targeted regions controlled by the Iran-aligned Houthi rebels, who have been engaged in a conflict with the Yemeni government for several years.

The Houthis have recently resumed attacks on Red Sea shipping lanes, citing support for Palestinians in Gaza as the motivation. This escalation has further fueled tensions in the region. According to Yahya Sarea, the Houthi military spokesman, Houthi forces had detected “hostile military movements” in the Red Sea, suggesting preparations for a larger US airstrike on Yemen. In response, the Houthis claimed to have launched missile and drone attacks on the US aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman and other warships, which they said repelled the US assault.

This ongoing conflict is a part of the broader Middle Eastern tensions involving various regional powers, with the Houthis aligned with Iran and the US supporting the Yemeni government. The situation has further complicated the humanitarian crisis in Yemen, with civilians bearing the brunt of the violence.

After spending nine months aboard the International Space Station (ISS), NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams finally returned to Earth, following an extended mission that was originally planned for just eight days. The mission was dramatically extended due to technical issues with their spacecraft, the Starliner, which made it too risky to use for their return. As a result, they had to wait for a SpaceX capsule, which was scheduled for a six-month mission.

Throughout their extended stay, Butch and Suni carried out various experiments and conducted spacewalks, with Suni breaking the record for the most hours spent by a woman outside the space station. They also marked Christmas in space by wearing festive attire and sending greetings back to Earth.

Their journey back to Earth was marked by a fast and fiery re-entry, followed by a gentle splashdown off the coast of Florida. A pod of dolphins even circled the capsule as it floated in the water. After being recovered by a ship, the astronauts were helped out of the capsule and given a warm welcome.

While their return was a huge relief, it will take time for their bodies to readjust to life on Earth. They will undergo medical checks and a rigorous exercise regimen to help counteract the effects of long-duration spaceflight, such as muscle and bone loss, and fluid shifts.

Despite the challenges of their extended stay, Butch and Suni embraced the experience and are now excited to reunite with their families and enjoy the simple pleasures of Earth, like seeing their loved ones and feeling the gravity again.

Village Roadshow Entertainment Group, known for its work on iconic franchises like The Matrix, Joker, and Ocean’s Eleven, has filed for bankruptcy protection in the US. The company has cited financial difficulties stemming from a legal dispute with its former partner, Warner Bros (WB), and a failed venture into producing independent films and TV series.

Village Roadshow’s debts are estimated to be between $500 million and $1 billion. As part of its efforts to address its financial challenges, the company is looking to sell its extensive film library for $365 million (£281 million).

The company’s problems with Warner Bros began in early 2022 following the release of The Matrix Resurrections on the streaming service HBO Max, which Village Roadshow claims led to it being shut out of any rights to sequels or prequels of their previous collaborative films. The legal battle with WB has resulted in over $18 million in unpaid legal fees, severely damaging the partnership.

In addition to the dispute with WB, Village Roadshow launched a costly studio business in 2018, producing independent films and TV series. Unfortunately, these productions failed to generate profits, further contributing to the company’s financial woes.

Like many film companies, Village Roadshow also faced challenges due to the pandemic, which led to a slump in demand, and the disruptions caused by the Hollywood actors’ and writers’ strike that began in May 2023. In December 2023, the Writers Guild of America took action against the company, banning its members from working with Village Roadshow over alleged non-payment of contributors.

The bankruptcy filing marks a significant turning point for the once-renowned production company, which has been a major player in the entertainment industry for decades.

At least 12 people have tragically died following a plane crash off the Caribbean coast of Honduras on Monday evening. The aircraft, operated by Honduran airline Lanhsa, crashed into the sea shortly after taking off from Roatán Island.

The crash occurred about one minute after departure from Juan Manuel Gálvez International Airport, with the plane en route to Golosón International Airport in La Ceiba. The Jetstream 32 aircraft reportedly made a sharp right turn after takeoff before plummeting into the water.

While the Honduran national police and fire department reported rescuing five people, one person is still missing. The cause of the crash remains unclear, though Roatán’s mayor confirmed that weather conditions were normal at the time. The Honduran Civil Aeronautics Agency has launched an investigation into the incident.

Among the dead was the well-known Honduran musician Aurelio Martinez Suazo, a member of the Garifuna community, which is of mixed indigenous and Afro-Caribbean descent. Suazo was recognized for his contributions to Garifuna music, a distinctive style rooted in the culture of the region.

In response to the disaster, President Xiomara Castro activated the national emergency committee, including police, fire services, the military, Red Cross, and the Ministry of Health. Videos from the scene showed rescue teams working in the dark, assisting survivors and transporting the injured to hospitals, including the city of San Pedro Sula. The Honduran government expressed condolences, offering solidarity with the victims’ families during this difficult time.

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has revoked the land allocated to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for its proposed national secretariat in Abuja. The revocation was formalized in a letter dated March 13, 2025, titled “Notice of Right of Occupancy,” which was signed by Chijioke Nwankwoeze, the Director of Land Administration (FCTA).

The revocation follows the PDP’s failure to pay the annual ground rents due on the property for the past 20 years, from January 1, 2006, to January 1, 2025. Despite repeated publications in national newspapers and electronic media urging all landowners in the FCT to settle outstanding bills, the PDP neglected to fulfill its financial obligations, which led to the revocation.

The letter cited that the PDP’s continued breach of the terms and conditions of the land grant, specifically under Section 28, Subsection 5 (a) and (b) of the Land Use Act, was the main reason for the decision. As a result, the FCT Administration will now take over the property.

This move is part of broader efforts by the FCTA, which recently announced the revocation of 4,794 land titles in Abuja. Nyesom Wike, who previously served as the governor of Rivers State under the PDP, was appointed as the FCT Minister by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Adnan Mukhtar Tudun-Wada, a former House of Assembly candidate and public relations practitioner, has criticized Seyi Tinubu, the son of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, over his recent Iftar tour in Northern Nigeria. In a statement issued on Tuesday, Adnan expressed his displeasure with Seyi’s gesture of distributing rice during the Ramadan tour, calling it an insult to the North. He argued that the distribution of rice made the people of the region appear as beggars and that such actions were more about campaigning than addressing the actual needs of the region.

Adnan also highlighted the perceived neglect of the North in President Tinubu’s administration, pointing to issues like the incomplete Abuja-Kano road, ongoing insecurity in states such as Katsina, Zamfara, and parts of Sokoto, and the non-functioning industries in the region. He criticized the government’s approach to tackling these problems and questioned the timing of the rice distribution.

He further accused Seyi Tinubu of disrespecting Northern culture, specifically regarding his interactions with traditional rulers. Adnan mentioned that Seyi’s manner of engaging with traditional rulers in the North, such as the Emir of Zazzau, was disrespectful, asking rhetorically whether Seyi would behave similarly with the Oba of Lagos or the Ooni of Ife.

Finally, Adnan called on Northern youths to distance themselves from Seyi Tinubu’s actions, emphasizing that he holds no official position in his father’s administration. He concluded by urging Seyi to stop undermining his father’s image in the North.