PDP sets up 44-member zoning committee ahead of November Convention

PDP Sets Stage for 2027: Zoning Committee Inaugurated Ahead of National Convention

In a strategic move aimed at reshaping its leadership and electoral fortunes, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has inaugurated a 44-member zoning committee ahead of its national convention scheduled for November 15–16, 2025. The convention will elect new members to the National Working Committee (NWC), a critical organ in steering the party’s direction.

Purpose and Political Significance

The zoning committee is tasked with recommending how key leadership positions within the NWC should be distributed across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. This zoning tradition has long been a balancing act for the PDP, often signaling where the presidential ticket might be headed. Historically, if the chairmanship is zoned to the North, the presidential candidate emerges from the South, and vice versa.

Nigeria Wakes to a Storm of Social Media Buzz

Nigeria Wakes to a Storm of Stories: Social Media Buzz from the Early Hours of Yesterday

As dawn broke across Nigeria yesterday, the digital pulse of the nation was already racing. From airport arrests to youth empowerment campaigns, social media platforms, especially X (formerly Twitter), were ablaze with commentary, hashtags, and viral moments that captured the country’s attention.

Airport Drama and Celebrity Headlines

One of the most talked-about stories came from Lagos’ Murtala Muhammed International Airport, where a traveller was reportedly arrested for failing to declare $59,000 in cash. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) quickly became a trending topic, with Nigerians debating the legality, ethics, and implications of the arrest.

Key Economic Shifts Shaping August 2025

Nigeria’s Business Pulse: Key Economic Shifts Shaping August 2025

As Nigeria navigates a complex economic landscape, four major developments dominated the business headlines on August 14, 2025. From surging energy costs to sweeping tax reforms, these stories reveal the structural shifts underway in Africa’s largest economy.

Cooking Gas Prices Surge Amid Inflation and Supply Gaps

Nigerians are grappling with a sharp rise in cooking gas prices, marking the fifth consecutive monthly increase. The average cost of refilling a 12.5kg cylinder soared to ₦21,010.56, while the 5kg refill hit ₦8,323.95. Delta and Rivers states recorded the highest prices, exceeding ₦22,000, while Yobe and Niger offered the lowest at around ₦18,500.

FEEL MY PULSE | AT THIS TIME

Entertainment Pulse: August 2025 Edition

As the heat of August settles over Nigeria and the global stage, the entertainment world is bursting with energy, creativity, and cultural celebration. From Lagos to Budapest, this month promises unforgettable experiences for music lovers, fashionistas, film buffs, and festival-goers alike.

Nigeria’s Cultural Calendar: Bold, Vibrant, Unmissable

Beats in the Park – Lagos

Date: August 16 Venue: Muri Okunola Park, Victoria Island Why It Matters: This open-air festival is a celebration of Afrobeats, street fashion, and urban youth culture. Expect performances from top-tier artists like Asake, Ayra Starr, and Fireboy DML, alongside food trucks, fashion pop-ups, and dance battles. It’s more than a concert,  it’s a lifestyle showcase.

Can the ADC Coalition and Peter Obi’s Reform Vision Reshape 2027?

Nigeria at a Crossroads: Can the ADC Coalition and Peter Obi’s Reform Vision Reshape 2027?

-SPECIAL REPORT-

By Solomon Etuk

As Nigeria’s political terrain begins to shift ahead of the 2027 general elections, two developments have captured national attention: the dramatic defection of high-profile politicians to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), and Peter Obi’s audacious promise to fix Nigeria’s economy within two years. Together, they represent a growing appetite for change, and a test of whether Nigeria’s opposition can truly unify.

A Coalition of Titans: ADC’s New Political Force

In what some are calling a “political earthquake,” former ministers, governors, and presidential contenders have aligned under the ADC banner. Among them are Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Rotimi Amaechi, Rauf Aregbesola, David Mark, and Nasir El-Rufai, figures who once stood on opposite sides of Nigeria’s political divide.

Keyamo orders release of Ibom air passenger from Kirikiri and life ban rescinded; orders charges against KWAM1 be dropped and he be made an ambassador

Justice or Privilege? Nigeria’s Aviation Shake-Up Sparks National Debate

In a country where justice often bends to influence, two recent aviation incidents have reignited public debate over fairness, accountability, and the power of celebrity. Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, has made headlines by intervening in two high-profile cases, one involving a jailed passenger and the other a music legend, prompting both praise and outrage.

The Minister’s Decisions: Compassion or Controversy?

Comfort Emmanson’s Release

• Emmanson was arrested after an unruly incident aboard an Ibom Air flight on August 10, 2025.
• Keyamo reportedly negotiated with Ibom Air to withdraw its complaint, citing her “great remorse” during police questioning.
• The Airline Operators of Nigeria (AON) reportedly agreed to lift her lifetime flight ban.
• Her release from Kirikiri Prison is expected within the week.

Legal and Public Backlash Against Ibom Air’s Controversial Ban

Comfort Emmanson

Justice for Comfort Emmanson: Legal and Public Backlash Against Ibom Air’s Controversial Ban

The recent incident involving Comfort Emmanson, a passenger on an Ibom Air flight from Uyo to Lagos, has sparked widespread outrage and legal scrutiny across Nigeria. What began as a routine flight quickly escalated into a national controversy, raising serious questions about passenger rights, corporate accountability, and the rule of law.

Abia demolishes unapproved structures in Umuahia market

Abia State Governor, His Excellency Alex Otti

Abia State Reclaims Umuahia Market for Modern Transportation Hub

In a bold move to reshape the urban landscape of Umuahia, the Abia State Government has commenced the demolition of unauthorized structures at the former Umuahia market, popularly known as Ogwumabiri. The action, led by the Umuahia Capital Development Authority (UCDA), marks a significant step toward transforming the city into a modern, world-class capital.

Six persons die after fire raze building in US

Tragedy in Maryland: Six Dead in Devastating Building Fire

Charles County, Maryland, A catastrophic fire tore through a residential building in Maryland on Sunday morning, claiming the lives of six individuals and leaving dozens injured. The blaze, which erupted around 8:40 a.m., has been described as the deadliest fire in the community in over a decade, according to local authorities.

Lives Lost

At press time, among the victims were four teenagers and two adults, whose lives were tragically cut short despite intense rescue efforts. Eyewitnesses recounted the fire’s rapid spread, which overwhelmed the building and left occupants trapped. The victims were reportedly burnt beyond help, underscoring the ferocity of the flames.

Trump demands homeless people 'immediately' move out of Washington DC

A tent encampment being removed from downtown Washington DC in 2023  (C) Getty Images

Tackling Homelessness: Causes, Challenges, and Promising Solutions

Background Story

Former President Donald Trump has reportedly called for the immediate removal of homeless individuals from Washington, D.C. This kind of statement typically reflects concerns about urban cleanliness, public safety, or political optics, especially in high-profile cities like the U.S. capital.

Expanded Discussion: Homelessness and Political Rhetoric

Here’s a look into the broader issues this touches on:

Homelessness in Major Cities

• Washington, D.C., like many urban centers, faces persistent challenges with homelessness due to high housing costs, limited shelter capacity, and systemic inequality.
• Sweeps or forced removals often displace individuals without offering long-term solutions.

Ibom Air, others ban ‘unruly passenger’ for life after airport row

Comfort Emmanson, Ibom Air Intended Passenger

Comfort Emmanson: The Airport Assault That Shook Nigeria’s Aviation Sector

In a dramatic turn of events that has gripped the nation, Comfort Emmanson, a passenger aboard an Ibom Air flight from Uyo to Lagos, has been banned for life from flying with the airline after a violent outburst that escalated into physical assault against crew members. The incident, captured in viral videos, has sparked widespread debate about passenger conduct, aviation safety, and justice in Nigeria.

What Happened Onboard

According to Ibom Air’s official statement, the altercation began when Emmanson refused to switch off her mobile phone before takeoff, defying standard aviation safety procedures. After a fellow passenger intervened and turned off the phone, Emmanson launched into a verbal tirade. The situation was temporarily calmed, and the flight proceeded as scheduled.

Farotimi Backs Obi’s One-Term Plan, Says Obasanjo, Buhari’s 16 Years ‘Ruined’ Nigeria

Rethinking Presidential Term Limits: Lessons from Nigeria and Beyond

As Nigeria approaches another pivotal election cycle, the debate over presidential term limits has resurfaced with renewed urgency. Human rights lawyer Dele Farotimi recently endorsed Peter Obi’s proposal for a single-term presidency, arguing that Nigeria’s past leaders squandered their time in office without delivering meaningful progress. This article explores the global landscape of term limits, their impact on governance, and the pros and cons of different systems.

Nigeria’s Experience: A Case for Reform

Farotimi’s critique is blunt: “Obasanjo had eight years; what did he do with it? Buhari had eight years; what did he do with it? He ruined Nigeria. Tinubu has had two years, and he is taking us back 50 years.” His argument is clear, longevity in office does not guarantee impact.

Couple die after vehicle they were allegedly having romantic moments in fell down a cliff

Passion Turned Tragic: The Cliffside Accident That Sparked Global Reflection

In a heartbreaking incident that has captured international attention, a couple in Brazil lost their lives after their vehicle plunged off a cliff during what authorities believe was an intimate moment. The tragedy has reignited conversations about public safety, legal boundaries around intimacy, and the role of urban planning in preventing such accidents.

The Incident: A Night of Celebration Ends in Disaster

Marcone da Silva Cardoso, 26, and Adriana Machado Ribeiro, 42, were found dead at the base of a cliff in Venda Nova do Imigrante, Brazil. After a night of partying, the couple parked near a scenic overlook, popular for hang-gliding, and reportedly engaged in romantic activity inside their car. Around 1 a.m., the vehicle rolled forward and fell approximately 328 feet, scattering debris across the vegetation.

Authorities found both victims unclothed, with no signs of violence. The car’s handbrake was engaged, suggesting the fall may have been triggered by movement inside the vehicle. Residents reported hearing a loud crash, but thick vegetation and darkness obscured the scene until a caretaker discovered the wreckage the next morning.

Similar Tragedies Around the World

This incident is not isolated. Across the globe, similar accidents have occurred under comparable circumstances:

• California, USA: A couple drove off a cliff near Big Sur during a romantic getaway. Their vehicle was later found in the Pacific Ocean.
• India: In Himachal Pradesh, a couple’s car rolled off a mountain edge due to a disengaged handbrake during monsoon season.
• South Africa: A vehicle plunged from Signal Hill in Cape Town, prompting calls for restricted nighttime access.
• Italy: A couple drowned after their car slid into Lake Como while parked near the water’s edge.

A WORLD ON EDGE | A NATION IN TRANSITION | YOUR WORRIES

-SPECIAL REPORT-

A World on Edge, A Nation in Transition: The Current Pulse of Nigeria and the Globe

As the sun rises on August 9, 2025, the world finds itself in a state of restless motion. From the bustling streets of Abuja to the war-torn neighborhoods of Gaza, from digital revolutions in Silicon Valley to prayer vigils in Ilorin, the global narrative is one of complexity, contradiction, and cautious hope. Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation, stands at a pivotal crossroads, grappling with internal challenges while echoing the broader tensions and transformations shaping the planet.

2027: 151 new parties indicate interest, submit forms, says INEC

Nigeria’s Political Landscape Shifts as INEC Receives 151 New Party Applications Ahead of 2027 Elections

As Nigeria inches closer to the 2027 general elections, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced a dramatic surge in applications from political associations seeking official party status. A total of 151 groups have submitted forms, signaling a potential reshaping of the nation’s political terrain.

INEC’s National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun, confirmed that the commission is currently shortlisting qualified associations. The final list will be released after the August 16 by-elections, and details, including proposed names, acronyms, logos, and interim leadership, are already available on INEC’s website.

We’re not where we ought to be, but we are somewhere very strategic - Abdullahi

-SPECIAL REPORT- 

Nigeria’s Electricity Paradox: Challenges, Reforms, and the Road Ahead

Despite being Africa’s largest economy and blessed with abundant natural resources, Nigeria continues to grapple with persistent electricity shortfalls. With over 85 million citizens lacking access to reliable power, the implications for economic growth, public welfare, and national development are profound. Yet, beneath the surface of these challenges lies a complex web of reforms, strategic decisions, and untapped potential.

NIGERIA | 2027 GENERAL ELECTIONS | UNFOLDING

-Special Report-

Nigeria's Road to 2027 Elections – Activities Unfolding and INEC’s Standpoint

As Nigeria inches closer to the 2027 general elections, political activities are intensifying across the country. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has begun laying the groundwork for what promises to be a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s democratic journey. Here's a comprehensive update on the unfolding developments and INEC’s position on key issues.

Political Activities Already Unfolding

• Formation of New Political Parties
• INEC has received applications from 151 political associations seeking registration as parties.
• Shortlisting is underway, with announcements expected after the August 16 by-elections.
• Early Campaigns and Political Realignments
• Despite INEC’s embargo on early politicking, several parties and groups have begun mobilizing for 2027.
• The South-West Agenda for Asiwaju (SWAGA) is actively promoting President Tinubu’s re-election bid.
• Internal tensions are rising within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), as some members publicly endorse Tinubu, prompting threats of sanctions.

CATCH UP | ERISCO TOMATO PASTE

-Special Report-

Erisco Tomato Paste — Nigeria’s Homegrown Culinary Hero

In the heart of Nigeria’s bustling food industry, one brand stands out for its commitment to quality, affordability, and national pride: Erisco Tomato Paste. Produced by Erisco Foods Limited, this tomato paste has become a staple in kitchens across the country, transforming everyday meals into flavorful experiences. But what makes Erisco Tomato Paste so special? This report dives deep into its origins, production, culinary value, and why it continues to win the hearts of Nigerian consumers.

FEEL MY PULSE | AT THIS TIME

Voices Beneath the Headlines: The Pulse of the People in Nigeria and Beyond

In an age of rapid news cycles and digital overload, it’s easy to skim the surface of headlines without hearing the heartbeat beneath them. But behind every story, whether it’s a public health alert in Benue or a geopolitical summit in Alaska, there are voices. Real people reacting, reflecting, and reshaping the narrative. This week, we tune into those voices to understand how Nigerians and the global community are responding to the stories that matter most.

NewsRoundUp | AT THIS TIME

Nigeria and the World: A Tapestry of Resilience, Reckoning, and Renewal

In a week marked by seismic shifts, both literal and metaphorical, the headlines from Nigeria and beyond paint a vivid portrait of a world in motion. From public health alerts in Benue to geopolitical tensions in Gaza, each story carries the weight of human experience, urging us to reflect on the forces shaping our lives.

TIME TO SHAPE NARRATIVES | HOLD LEADERS ACCOUNTABLE | ELEVATE VOICES THAT MATTER | LET'S BUILD THE FUTURE AND NOT INHERIT IT

A World on Edge, A Nation in Transition

As dawn breaks on August 9, 2025, the headlines across Nigeria and the globe paint a picture that is both sobering and stirring. We are living in a time of profound reckoning, where institutions are being tested, leadership is under scrutiny, and citizens are demanding more than promises. They want progress. They want truth.

In Nigeria, the contradictions are stark. The federal government seemingly denies a hunger crisis, even as food prices soar and families struggle to afford basic staples. Fuel now sells for ₦1,700 per litre in parts of the country, and the education system is under pressure, with WAEC correcting exam results after a technical mishap. Yet, amid the chaos, there are glimmers of reform: the First Lady’s ₦1 billion donation to flood victims, the commissioning of tuberculosis diagnostic machines, and the signing of the Insurance Industry Reform Act signal a government attempting to restore public trust.

SEB BLOG NOTES | AT THIS TIME

Nigeria in 24 Hours: A Cross-Platform Pulse of Headlines and Happenings

Between August 8 and the morning of August 9, 2025, Nigeria’s media landscape buzzed with stories that spanned politics, public health, celebrity culture, economic shifts, and global connections. From Linda Ikeji’s Blog to Vanguard, Punch, Guardian, BellaNaija, and Tribune, each platform offered a unique lens into the nation’s heartbeat. This article curates and elaborates on the most prominent headlines and leads, revealing not just what happened, but why it matters.

SEB SOCIAL | AT THIS TIME

Social Media Pulse: What’s Trending Across Instagram, X, Facebook & TikTok (August 9, 2025)

In the ever-evolving world of social media, August 2025 is serving up a cocktail of creativity, controversy, and community. From emoji storytelling on Instagram to slap-sync squads on TikTok, users are expressing themselves with flair, and the comment sections are buzzing with reactions that range from hilarious to heartfelt. Here’s what’s trending across the top platforms and how people are responding.

LAGOS | ONE FLOOD TOO MANY

Lagos Floods: A Wake-Up Call for Resilience, Equity, and Community Power

-SPECIAL REPORT-

Lagos, Nigeria’s bustling megacity, has once again found itself submerged under the weight of torrential rains and rising waters. The recent flood, triggered by prolonged rainfall and compounded by tidal lock and poor drainage infrastructure, has left thousands displaced, homes destroyed, and communities grappling with the aftermath. But beyond the headlines and viral videos lies a deeper story, one of systemic vulnerability, grassroots resilience, and the urgent need for a new approach to urban survival.

The Anatomy of the Flood

The floodwaters surged through neighborhoods like Ijede, Igbogbo-Bayeku, and Selewu Oni Malu in Ikorodu, submerging homes, vehicles, and entire streets. According to Tokunbo Wahab, Lagos State’s Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, the city’s coastal geography and tidal dynamics make it particularly prone to flash flooding. When heavy rains coincide with high tides, drainage systems are rendered ineffective, causing water to back up into residential areas.

21 Foreign Hackers Fined ₦1m Each, Ordered To Depart Nigeria

Nigeria’s Cybercrime Crackdown: 21 Foreign Hackers Convicted, Face Deportation

Overview of the Case

In a landmark judgment delivered on August 5, 2025, Justice Ekerete Akpan of the Federal High Court in Abuja convicted 21 foreign nationals for high-level cybercrime. Each was fined ₦1 million and ordered to leave Nigeria within six working days, following a plea bargain agreement with the Nigeria Police Force.

The convicted individuals, hailing from China, Indonesia, Brazil, the Philippines, Vietnam, and Thailand, were part of a larger group of 109 foreign nationals facing prosecution for cybercrime, money laundering, and immigration violations. They operated a fraudulent and unregistered gaming platform in Abuja and were charged under: