Seun Kuti Blasts VeryDarkMan, Defends Loyalty to Sowore in Heated Online Clash

Afrobeats singer Seun Kuti has ignited fresh controversy online after launching a scathing attack on social media activist VeryDarkMan and his fanbase, known as “Ratels,” during a live session.

In the viral video, Kuti did not hold back, mocking the group and accusing them of lacking courage and consistency. He alleged that VeryDarkMan had deleted previous posts and failed to stand firmly behind his statements.

“You people don’t have mind,” Kuti said during the livestream. “You can never do anything and stand on it.”

The outspoken musician also dismissed claims that VeryDarkMan had ever supported him, arguing that he had seen no meaningful backing. According to Kuti, any perceived support was overshadowed by comments he found disrespectful.

A major point of contention in the outburst was Kuti’s relationship with activist and politician Omoyele Sowore. He firmly defended his long-standing loyalty, emphasizing that his support for Sowore is personal and unwavering.

“I have known him for years. I can stand for him at any time,” Kuti stated, pushing back against critics questioning his public alignment.

The feud appears to be linked to ongoing tensions surrounding a recent case involving businessman BLord, which has drawn attention from multiple public figures and sparked heated debates across social media.

Kuti’s remarks have since fueled further reactions online, with supporters and critics weighing in on both sides. While some have praised his bluntness, others have criticized the tone of his comments and the escalating nature of the dispute.

As the situation continues to unfold, the clash highlights the growing intersections between entertainment, activism, and online influence in Nigeria’s digital space.

Police Arrest Officer Over Alleged Extrajudicial Killing in Delta

A police officer in Delta State has been arrested and transferred to Abuja for disciplinary action following the fatal shooting of a suspect in custody, an incident that has sparked widespread outrage.

The Delta State Police Command confirmed that the officer, identified as ASP Nuhu Usman, was taken into custody after allegedly shooting and killing 28-year-old Mene Ogidi in Effurun on Sunday, April 26, 2026.

According to the command’s spokesperson, SP Bright Edafe, operatives had acted on intelligence from members of the public, leading to the arrest of the suspect, who was reportedly found attempting to ship a parcel containing a Beretta pistol and ammunition. However, the situation escalated after the arrest.

Edafe stated that the officer in charge of the operation discharged his firearm in violation of police rules, resulting in the suspect’s death. He described the act as a clear breach of established procedures governing the use of force.

Following the incident, the Commissioner of Police in Delta State, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, ordered the immediate arrest of the officer and condemned the killing as extrajudicial. The officer was initially moved to the State Headquarters in Asaba before being transferred to the Force Headquarters in Abuja, where he is expected to face the Force Disciplinary Committee.

“The command maintains zero tolerance for unprofessional conduct and is committed to ensuring accountability,” Edafe said, adding that the officer has been formally queried and will undergo further disciplinary processes, which may include prosecution.

The case has drawn intense public reaction, particularly after a video circulated on social media showing the suspect bound and pleading for his life before being shot. In the footage, the victim is seen offering to cooperate with officers before shots are fired at close range.

Authorities have extended condolences to the family of the deceased and assured them that justice will be pursued. Residents have also been urged to remain calm as investigations continue.

The incident has renewed concerns about police conduct and the use of force, with calls for greater accountability and adherence to human rights standards within the force.

Abuja Court in Spotlight as Justice Ofili-Ajumogobia Recuses Herself from BLord Trial

A Federal High Court in Abuja has been thrown into the spotlight following the sudden recusal of Justice Rita Ofili-Ajumogobia from the ongoing criminal trial of cryptocurrency entrepreneur Linus Williams, popularly known as BLord.

The case, filed by the Nigeria Police Force, stems from allegations of impersonation and fraud brought forward by social media activist Martins Vincent Otse, widely known as VeryDarkMan. BLord, 27, has pleaded not guilty to all six counts.

Justice Ofili-Ajumogobia’s decision to withdraw from the case came after she had already presided over several key stages of the proceedings, including the defendant’s arraignment on April 1, his remand in Kuje Correctional Centre, and the eventual granting of bail on April 17. The judge ordered that the case file be returned to the Chief Judge for reassignment to another court.

The matter has now been adjourned to May 19, 2026, when it is expected to be mentioned before a new judge.

The timing of the recusal has sparked debate among legal observers and members of the public. Critics have questioned why the withdrawal occurred only after significant judicial decisions had already been made, particularly those affecting the defendant’s liberty. BLord spent 16 days in custody, including the Easter period, before securing bail.

At the resumed proceedings that led to the recusal, BLord was present in court. VeryDarkMan briefly appeared but exited shortly after, while activist Omoyele Sowore, who has been vocal about the case, was also in attendance.

Justice Ofili-Ajumogobia did not provide detailed reasons for her withdrawal, a move that, while permissible within judicial discretion, has contributed to public speculation. In Nigerian legal practice, judges are not always required to disclose the basis for recusal, though such decisions are typically made to preserve impartiality or the appearance of fairness.

Legal analysts note that while recusal is a standard judicial safeguard, it is generally expected to occur early in proceedings. A late-stage withdrawal, especially after substantive rulings, can raise concerns about case management and procedural consistency.

The charges against BLord include allegations of using VeryDarkMan’s identity and brand to promote business ventures, including claims that the activist endorsed his platform. Prosecutors also allege that misleading posts and fabricated digital records were used to gain financial advantage, in violation of the Cybercrime (Prevention, Protection, etc.) Act and the Advance Fee Fraud and Other Fraud Related Offences Act.

Despite the criminal charges, indications of a possible out-of-court settlement have emerged. During the bail hearing, the complainant’s legal team withdrew its opposition, and defence counsel later confirmed that both parties were exploring an amicable resolution.

The reassignment of the case to a new judge may affect the pace and direction of proceedings, as the incoming judge will need time to review the case record and familiarize themselves with its details.

As the case moves forward, attention remains focused not only on the allegations but also on broader questions surrounding judicial transparency, pre-trial detention, and the handling of high-profile disputes within Nigeria’s legal system.

Alleged extra judicial killing provokes outrage in Nigeria

 Public outrage has erupted following the emergence of a disturbing video on social media showing the cold-blooded public killing of a bound suspect in broad daylight by armed men said to be police officers in Delta State.

The 90-second video, which was posted on X on Tuesday by #Dee_9889, depicts a scene of extreme violence involving men in civilian attire operating beside a vehicle clearly labelled “Nigeria Police Force, Effurun Area Command.”

In the footage, a suspect is seen on the ground with his hands and legs tied.

In his helpless state, he is seen pleading for his life and offering to cooperate with the armed men, whom he repeatedly addressed as “officers.”

“Officers, abeg,” the man pleaded in the clip. “I’ll tell you everything. It was my friend who deceived me.”

As the suspect provided information regarding his friend’s whereabouts, shouting, “He’s at Sapele. I’ll take you to him,” one of the armed men discharged his firearm into the man’s leg.

“He’s at Sapele. I don’t know anything. “Please. I’ll take you to him. He’s at Sapele. I’ll take you to him, officer. Officer, I didn’t know,” the man wailed loudly.

As the victim continued to scream and beg, the same armed individual fired a second shot, this time towards the man’s head in full view of onlookers.

The body was subsequently carried into the waiting police van by two other men before the team drove away from the scene.

The video has triggered a wave of condemnation on social media, with Nigerians calling for the immediate arrest and prosecution of the personnel involved.

Popular activist Harrison Gwamnishu described the footage as “disturbing,” noting, “This is live execution carried out by some armed men alleged to be Police officers attached to Effurun Area Command, Delta State Command.”

Another X user, identified as Victory (#os_victry), called on the police leadership to act, writing, “This Officer is going against the law and what he did here is a crime. He should be detained and jailed… Tunji Disu, you need to sanitise the NPF.”

#the_drterry questioned the sanctity of life in the country, writing: “Is this how life has become useless to us that police will be executing suspects even in broad daylight? All the police officers there must be prosecuted.”

Following the viral spread of the video and the ensuing backlash, the Complaint Response Unit of the Nigeria Police Force confirmed via X that an investigation has been initiated into the incident.

Responding to Gwamnishu’s post, the CRU wrote, “Your complaint is hereby acknowledged, investigation initiated. Here is your Tracking number: TCRU100927.”

US President Trump whisk away following gunshots at dinner with journalists

 US President Donald Trump was rushed to safety from the White House Correspondents’ Dinner after gunshots range

out at the venue.

The President and First Lady Melania Trump appeared to be part way through a conversation at the Washington Hilton when he was interrupted by a commotion at the White House table.

Loud bangs could be heard and then various secret service members escorted the president away from the venue as they called out “stay down, stay down”.

The president, first lady and all other protectees are safe, the Secret Service said later, after seven to eight gunshots were fired.

Trump later said the injured officer was protected by a bulletproof vest and was in good condition.

Officials said the suspect appeared to act alone. Police said he was armed with a shotgun, handgun and multiple knives.

Surveillance video released by Trump showed the suspect running through a screening area before agents drew their weapons.

The event, attended by about 2,600 people, was canceled.

Trump later said federal agents were raiding the suspect’s home in California.

The shooting follows two assassination attempts against Trump during the 2024 campaign.

The dinner was being held at the Washington Hilton, also the site of the 1981 attempt on President Ronald Reagan.

The White House Correspondents’ Association Dinner has long served as a symbol of the uneasy but enduring relationship between the U.S. presidency and the press.

Founded in 1921, the annual black‑tie event brings together journalists, top government officials and civic figures.

Sitting presidents have traditionally attended at least once during their terms, sometimes delivering good‑natured remarks at their own expense.

Beyond the celebrity and satire, the dinner has historically been used to raise scholarship funds and spotlight press freedom.

Before latest incident

Before this shooting, Trump was the target of two assassination attempts in 2024 while campaigning for reelection after leaving the White House in 2021.

The first was while Trump was campaigning ​at an outdoor rally ⁠in Butler, Pennsylvania, in July 2024.

Trump was shot and wounded in his upper ear by a 20-year-old gunman. The gunman was shot dead by security personnel.

World Malaria Day: CP Ojajuni preaches healthy workforce at Free medical outreach for personnel, residents in the barracks

 

The Ogun State Police Command has provided free medical services, including malaria testing and treatment, to officers, their families, and civilian staff as part of activities marking World Malaria Day.

The outreach, held on Friday at the Police Officers’ Mess in Ibara, Abeokuta, was organized in collaboration with The Life Projects and other partners, with a focus on combating malaria among personnel and residents of the barracks.

Beneficiaries received free medical consultations, malaria parasite tests, Long-Lasting Insecticidal Nets (LLINs), and anti-malarial medications. Health professionals also conducted sensitisation sessions on environmental hygiene and preventive measures to reduce the spread of malaria.

Speaking at the event, the Commissioner of Police in Ogun State, CP Bode Ojajuni, said the initiative reflects the Command’s commitment to the health and wellbeing of its workforce.

He noted that a healthy police force is essential for effective service delivery and public safety, adding that the Command would continue to support programmes that improve the welfare of its personnel.

The police chief commended The Life Projects and its partners for their support, describing their contribution as vital to strengthening community health.

Some beneficiaries expressed appreciation for the outreach, noting that the free services would help ease the burden of healthcare costs and improve malaria prevention within the barracks.

World Malaria Day is observed annually on April 25 to raise awareness on the prevention and control of malaria, a major public health challenge in Nigeria and across Africa.

IGP Reform Takes Hold in Ogun as CP Ojajuni Appoints CSP Daramola VCRU Commander

 

The Commissioner of Police Ogun State Police Command CP Bode Ojajuni has appointed CSP Daramola Sunday Thompson as the new Commander of the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU), in line with ongoing reform directives introduced by the Inspector-General of Police IGP Olatunji Disu.

CP  Ojajuni announced the appointment on Friday, describing it as a significant step in implementing the reform agenda of the IGP adding that the reform initiative is aimed at restructuring and streamlining tactical operations across State Commands to promote a more unified, professional, and intelligence-driven approach to tackling violent crimes. 

The move is also expected to enhance operational efficiency, strengthen accountability, and improve coordinated responses to security challenges across Ogun State.

The appointment followed a rigorous screening process, which also signaled the commencement of an orientation programme for selected personnel of the unit. Members of the Command Management Team participated in the exercise, providing strategic guidance and reinforcing the objectives of the Inspector-General’s reform programme.

CSP Thompson is a seasoned officer with extensive experience in crime-fighting operations. He has served as Officer-in-Charge of the Anti-Cultism Unit and CP Monitoring Unit in Ogun State, as well as Officer-in-Charge of the Anti-Fraud and Anti-Car Theft units in Ekiti State. He also previously served as Divisional Police Officer in Ebonyi State.

Speaking on the development, the Commissioner of Police charged the newly appointed commander to uphold professionalism, discipline, and integrity, while ensuring swift, lawful, and effective responses to violent crimes.

The Violent Crime Response Unit is expected to play a central role in strengthening public safety and addressing violent offences as the Command advances its reform-driven policing strategy.