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PDP South-East Threatens Mass Defection Over National Secretary Dispute

By
Olaosun Rebecca
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The crisis in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) deepened on Wednesday as the South-East Zonal Caucus issued a stern warning of potential mass defections if the party continues to disregard its nomination of Hon. Sunday Udeh-Okoye as National Secretary.

The threat, delivered in a communiqué following a Zonal Executive Committee (ZEC) meeting at the Government House in Enugu, underscores growing frustration over what the region perceives as sustained marginalization by the party leadership.

The communiqué, read by Zonal Chairman Chief Ali Odefa, reaffirmed the South-East’s unanimous support for Udeh-Okoye to complete the term of the National Secretary, in line with the directive of the PDP’s National Working Committee (NWC) during its 600th meeting on April 29. Odefa emphasized that ratifying Udeh-Okoye’s nomination would pave the way for “peace, unity, stability, and progress” within the party.

“The South-East ZEC exhaustively deliberated on the directive of the NWC and came to the conclusion that it offered a sure pathway to peace, unity, stability, and progress of our party. Consequently, the ZEC unanimously recommended Hon. Sunday Udeh-Okoye as the candidate to complete the term of office of the National Secretary,” Odefa stated.

The South-East caucus expressed frustration that it has repeatedly nominated Udeh-Okoye since October 2023, only to face delays and resistance from the party’s national leadership.

The region urged the NWC to immediately ratify Udeh-Okoye’s nomination and allow Arch. Setonji Koshoedo, currently recognized by the NWC as Acting National Secretary, to continue in an acting capacity pending formal ratification at the National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting scheduled for May 27.

The caucus highlighted its long-standing loyalty to the PDP, noting that the South-East has been a stronghold for the party since its inception nearly three decades ago.

It pointed to recent efforts to bolster the party’s ranks in the region, such as in Enugu, where the Labour Party’s 2023 gubernatorial candidate, two House of Representatives members, and several state assembly members have defected to the PDP.

“The South-East has consistently served as a stronghold of the PDP from inception. In PDP’s near three-decade existence, we have given our loyalty and all to the party,” the communiqué read.

“Currently, while the party has been losing key members post-2023 general elections, the South-East PDP is at the vanguard of strengthening the party by rallying major opposition figures.”

However, the caucus warned that failure to honor its demand for Udeh-Okoye’s ratification could force the region to reconsider its relationship with the PDP.

“We hope that this time, the position of the South-East PDP regarding the Office of the National Secretary is accorded the honour and immediacy it deserves. Otherwise, the South-East PDP, as a family, will be compelled to reconsider our relationship with the PDP going forward,” the communiqué concluded.

Enugu State Governor and PDP leader in the zone, Dr. Peter Mbah, called for unity, urging the South-East to speak with one voice.

“The South-East must stand together,” Mbah declared, emphasizing the need for the region to assert its influence within the party.

PDP Board of Trustees Chairman, Senator Adolphus Wabara, expressed outrage at what he described as the party’s persistent marginalization of the South-East.

“We have been trampled upon, not taken seriously. If such a position were vacant in the South-South, it would not be like this. The usual thing is to play politics with the Igbo man,” Wabara said.

“Yes, we may have to reconsider our stand as far as the party is concerned. But I trust the NWC.”

Former Imo State Governor, Chief Achike Udenwa, echoed Wabara’s sentiments, demanding an end to the region’s marginalization.

“We are expecting that this issue will be finally ironed out once and for all. We do not want to be taken for granted by anybody again,” Udenwa stated.

The dispute over the National Secretary position stems from a leadership tussle that intensified after the 2023 general elections.

In December 2024, a lower court and the South-East caucus endorsed Udeh-Okoye, a former National Youth Leader, for the role. Although the PDP governors, Board of Trustees, and NWC initially accepted the ruling, Senator Samuel Anyanwu challenged it in court. The Supreme Court, on March 21, 2025, dismissed the case, ruling that internal party matters should not be adjudicated by courts.

In response, the PDP Governors’ Forum, on April 14, directed the South-East to nominate a new candidate and endorsed Koshoedo as Acting National Secretary, a decision ratified by the NWC on April 29.

However, the South-East has remained steadfast in its support for Udeh-Okoye, deepening the rift within the party.

To address the crisis, serving and former PDP governors recently appointed former Senate President Dr. Bukola Saraki to lead a seven-member reconciliation committee ahead of the NEC meeting and the party’s elective convention in August.

Meanwhile, in a separate development, PDP National Secretariat staff in Abuja publicly aligned with the Governors’ Forum and NWC, recognizing Koshoedo as Acting National Secretary.

Speaking on behalf of 83 staff members, Director of Administration Gurama Bawa described the decision as essential for preserving party unity and administrative stability.

As the PDP prepares for its critical NEC meeting, the South-East’s threat of defection looms large, posing a significant challenge to the party’s cohesion and its prospects in future elections. Attempts to reach Acting National Chairman Umar Damagum and National Publicity Secretary Debo Ologunagba for comments were unsuccessful.

The coming weeks will be pivotal as the PDP navigates this internal crisis and seeks to avert a potential exodus from one of its strongest regional bases.

What killed Monalisa Stephen and How to Prevent it

By
Olaosun Rebecca
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0

The Nigerian entertainment industry is reeling from the sudden death of Nollywood actress, media personality, and body positivity advocate Monalisa Ayobami Stephen, popularly known as Gabacci.

The 33-year-old passed away on Tuesday, May 13, 2025, in Lagos, sparking an outpouring of grief from fans and colleagues.

According to reports, her death was linked to complications from low blood sugar and internal bleeding, as confirmed by her immediate younger sister and Seun Oloketuyi, CEO of Best of Nollywood (BON).

Who Is Monalisa Stephen?

Monalisa Stephen was a vibrant Nigerian plus-size model, actress, fashion designer, stylist, and content creator born on March 13, 1992, in Lagos State.

Launching her modeling career at 19, she gained recognition for her curvy figure and confident presence, appearing as a video vixen in numerous music videos.

Stephen starred in Nollywood films such as Mami Wata (2023) and Breaded Life (2021), and her comedic skits and social media presence earned her a loyal following.

A vocal advocate for body positivity, mental health, and self-love, Stephen used her platform to challenge societal norms around body image, often sparking debates with her candid views.

Her last Instagram post on April 29, 2025, featured her dancing to Davido’s 10 Kilo, reflecting her vibrant spirit. Known for her resilience despite controversies, she inspired many to embrace their authentic selves.

What Killed Monalisa Stephen?

Monalisa Stephen succumbed to health complications involving low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) and internal bleeding on May 13, 2025, in Lagos.

The exact medical sequence remains unclear, but reports suggest she battled these conditions before her death.

Her younger sister confirmed the tragic news, and Seun Oloketuyi announced it on Instagram, stating,

“Brand influencer Monalisa Ayobami Stephen is dead, she died yesterday in Lagos after losing the fight against low sugar and internal bleeding.”

Hypoglycemia, a condition where blood glucose drops below normal levels, can be life-threatening if untreated, especially in severe cases.

Internal bleeding, potentially from an intestinal hemorrhage as one source noted, could indicate a separate or compounding issue, such as a gastrointestinal condition.

Without official medical reports, the interplay between these conditions remains speculative, but their combination likely overwhelmed her system.

Some online speculation suggested extreme dieting or slimming trends may have contributed to her low blood sugar, but no evidence supports this claim.

The lack of detailed medical disclosure underscores the need for caution in attributing causes beyond what has been confirmed.

What Is Low Blood Sugar?

Low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia, occurs when blood glucose levels fall below 70 mg/dL, depriving the body of its primary energy source.

It is most commonly associated with diabetes management, particularly as a side effect of insulin or medications that stimulate insulin release. Other causes include insufficient carbohydrate intake, excessive physical activity, or alcohol consumption without food.

Hypoglycemia can range from mild to severe, with severe cases (below 55 mg/dL) potentially leading to unconsciousness or seizures.

While typically manageable, untreated hypoglycemia can be dangerous, especially if compounded by other health issues, as may have been the case with Stephen.

How to Treat Low Blood Sugar

Prompt treatment is critical for hypoglycemia to prevent serious complications.

For mild to moderate cases (blood sugar below 70 mg/dL), the 15-15 Rule is recommended:

•Consume 15 grams of fast-acting carbohydrates, such as:

•4 oz (½ cup) of juice or regular soda.

•1 tablespoon of sugar, honey, or syrup.

•3–4 glucose tablets or 1 tube of glucose gel.

•Hard candies or jellybeans (check labels for quantity).

•Wait 15 minutes, then recheck blood sugar. If still below 70 mg/dL, repeat.

•Once stabilized, eat a balanced snack or meal with protein and carbs (e.g., crackers with cheese).

For severe hypoglycemia (below 55 mg/dL), where a person may be unable to self-treat:

•Administer injectable glucagon (prescription required) and seek emergency medical help immediately.

•If conscious after glucagon, provide fast-acting sugars (e.g., juice), followed by a long-acting carb with protein (e.g., a sandwich).

•If unresponsive after 15 minutes, administer another glucagon dose and contact emergency services.

Always avoid high-fiber or high-fat foods during treatment, as they slow sugar absorption. Keeping fast-acting carbs accessible is essential for at-risk individuals.

Symptoms of Low Blood Sugar

Hypoglycemia symptoms vary by severity and can escalate quickly. Common signs include:

•Mild to Moderate: Paleness, shakiness, sweating, headache, hunger, nausea, rapid heartbeat, fatigue, irritability, anxiety, difficulty concentrating, dizziness, or tingling in the lips, tongue, or cheeks.

•Severe: Confusion, unusual behavior, loss of coordination, slurred speech, blurry or tunnel vision, nightmares (if asleep), unresponsiveness, or seizures.

Recognizing personal symptoms early allows for faster intervention, potentially preventing fatal outcomes.

How to Prevent Low Blood Sugar

Preventing hypoglycemia requires proactive monitoring and lifestyle management, particularly for those with diabetes or other risk factors:

•Frequent Monitoring: Use a blood glucose meter or continuous glucose monitor (CGM) to track levels, especially before and after meals, exercise, or sleep, and during changes like travel or new medication routines.

•Stable Glucose Levels: Eat regular, balanced meals with adequate carbohydrates, avoid excessive alcohol, and adjust medications only under medical supervision.

•Recognize Patterns: Log blood sugar, activity, and diet to identify trends, sharing data with healthcare providers to adjust treatment plans.

•Emergency Preparedness: Carry fast-acting carbs and, if prescribed, a glucagon kit. Inform family or friends about hypoglycemia protocols.

Regular check-ins with a diabetes care team can help tailor prevention strategies, reducing the risk of severe episodes.

Monalisa Stephen’s death has left a void in Nollywood and the body positivity movement. Fans and colleagues, including actress Toyin Abraham, have flooded social media with tributes, celebrating her as a hardworking and vibrant soul who encouraged plus-size women to live boldly.

Her passing highlights the dangers of hypoglycemia and the need for greater awareness about managing chronic health conditions.

As investigations into her death continue, the industry mourns a trailblazer whose advocacy for self-love will endure.

For now, her fans are urged to honor her memory by embracing her message of confidence and resilience while staying vigilant about their health.

NUC Approves New Benue State University

By
Precious Obazee
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0

The National Universities Commission (NUC) has granted a provisional license for the establishment of the Benue State University of Agriculture, Science and Technology (BUSAST), making it the 68th state-owned university in Nigeria.

Located in Ihugh, Vandeikya Local Government Area of Benue State, BUSAST becomes the state’s second public university.

The licence was formally presented in Abuja by the NUC Executive Secretary, Professor Abdullahi Ribadu, to Governor Hyacinth Alia, represented by his deputy, Samuel Ode.
Professor Ribadu noted that the addition of BUSAST brings the total number of universities in Nigeria to 299.

He urged the state to uphold quality assurance standards and start with clearly defined academic programmes.

“You don’t have to start all programmes at once,” Ribadu said. “Let us know which ones you’re ready to begin with, and we will assess your readiness accordingly.”

Governor Alia, through his deputy, described the development as a major step forward for education in the state, pledging full commitment to the university’s growth.

“We are grateful for this recognition,” Ode said. “Benue will provide the infrastructure and support needed to make this university a centre of excellence, especially in agricultural development.”

NOA Lauds JAMB, Demands Action on UTME Errors

By
Precious Obazee
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0

The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has praised the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) for its transparency in addressing the challenges surrounding the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).

In a statement, NOA Director General, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, described JAMB’s open acknowledgment of technical lapses as a commendable act of leadership and institutional responsibility.

He applauded JAMB Registrar, Prof. Is-haq Oloyede, for exemplifying integrity and aligning with the principles of the National Values Charter (NVC), which calls for transparency and accountability in public service.

Onilu urged JAMB to go beyond admitting errors by introducing remedial measures that directly address the concerns of affected candidates, parents, and stakeholders.
He emphasized that while acknowledging mistakes is a first step, taking corrective action—including appropriate compensation—will help restore trust.

“JAMB’s response sets a powerful example for other institutions. Owning up to mistakes and taking corrective action strengthens public confidence,” Onilu said.

He reaffirmed NOA’s commitment to promoting responsible leadership and a governance culture grounded in trust and accountability.

He also reiterated the agency’s ongoing advocacy for the ideals of the National Values Charter as Nigeria moves toward more ethical and inclusive governance.

All You Need to Know About JAMB Rescheduled Exams

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has announced that it will reconduct the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) for no fewer than 379,997 candidates following widespread technical glitches that marred the examination in 157 centers, primarily in Lagos and parts of the South-East.

The decision comes after several days of mounting complaints from candidates and parents over alleged errors in results, failure to access exam portals, and concerns about fairness in the conduct and grading of this year’s UTME.

Scope of the Problem

According to the JAMB Registrar, Professor Is-haq Oloyede, the board discovered that a critical software update was not properly implemented in some computer-based test (CBT) centers, resulting in malfunctions that affected candidates’ ability to complete or even begin their examinations. These technical failures, the board noted, undermined the credibility of the results from the affected centers.

A total of 379,997 candidates were impacted:

  • Lagos Zone: 65 centers with 206,610 candidates.
  • South-East (Owerri Zone): 92 centers with 173,387 candidates.

These candidates will be required to retake the UTME between May 16 and May 19, 2025, at designated centers.

“We regret the inconvenience caused by this situation. As a responsible institution, we must admit where we’ve erred and take immediate corrective measures. That is what we have done,” Professor Oloyede said during a press briefing in Abuja.

The Technical Glitch and Its Aftermath

Reports of discrepancies in the released UTME results began circulating days after the initial release on May 4. Several candidates claimed that their results did not reflect their performance, with some stating they could not even log into their computers during the test but were still given scores.

Independent findings by JAMB’s technical team confirmed that data loss and poor transmission were prevalent in the 157 affected centers, particularly due to outdated or faulty server configurations.

As a result, JAMB declared results from these centers null and void and commenced preparations for a fresh sitting.

Communication to Affected Candidates

Candidates eligible for the rescheduled exam have begun receiving notifications through SMS, email, and phone calls. JAMB has also urged all affected individuals to visit the official JAMB portal to confirm their new examination dates and reprint their exam slips.

“No candidate affected by these errors will be punished or disadvantaged,” the registrar assured. “We will ensure a seamless and credible re-examination process for all.”

Public Reaction

The development has sparked heated reactions among students, parents, and education stakeholders. Many commended JAMB for taking responsibility and initiating corrective action. However, others criticized the board for the recurrent nature of such errors despite years of conducting computer-based exams.

Education experts have called for an overhaul of JAMB’s quality assurance framework and demanded a full audit of accredited CBT centers across the country.

“This incident shows we still have a long way to go in ensuring technology-driven assessments are reliable, especially when dealing with millions of candidates,” said Dr. Chinelo Eze, an education policy analyst.

What Affected Candidates Should Do

JAMB has issued the following steps for affected candidates:

  1. Stay Informed: Check your phone, email, and the JAMB website regularly for official updates.
  2. Reprint Exam Slips: Use the JAMB portal to reprint updated slips containing new dates and venues.
  3. Revise and Prepare: Take advantage of the extra time to study and attend mock exams if available.
  4. Follow Instructions: Arrive early at the new centers with all required documents and ID.

While the controversy surrounding the 2025 UTME results has cast a shadow on Nigeria’s tertiary admissions process, JAMB’s decision to reconduct exams offers a second chance to thousands of candidates. As the board works to restore public confidence, all eyes will be on how efficiently and transparently the rescheduled exams are conducted.

Osimhen’s Brace Fires Galatasaray To Turkish Cup Glory

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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0

Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen delivered a sensational performance on Wednesday night, scoring twice to lead Galatasaray to a commanding 3-0 victory over Trabzonspor in the Turkish Cup final held at Gaziantep Stadium.

Galatasaray, already the Turkish Super Lig leaders, got off to a flying start as Barış Alper Yılmaz opened the scoring in the 5th minute. The Istanbul giants maintained their lead going into halftime, fending off a spirited first-half effort by Trabzonspor, known as the Black Sea Storm.

Just a minute after the restart, Osimhen extended Galatasaray’s lead with a stunning volley that left the goalkeeper with no chance. The 26-year-old Nigerian forward struck again in the 64th minute, completing his brace and sealing the cup triumph for Okan Buruk’s side.

The win marks Galatasaray’s 19th Turkish Cup title and Osimhen’s first piece of silverware since joining the club on loan from Napoli in September 2024. The prolific forward has now scored 24 goals in 27 appearances across all competitions for the club this season.

Osimhen’s impact has been critical in Galatasaray’s domestic campaign. From a hat-trick against Antalyaspor to decisive goals in high-stakes fixtures, the Super Eagles striker has proven himself as one of the most influential players in Turkish football this season.

With the Turkish Cup secured, Galatasaray now turns its attention to wrapping up the Süper Lig title. They currently hold an eight-point lead over arch-rivals Fenerbahçe with three games left to play, putting them on the verge of a historic domestic double.

Osimhen’s performance on Wednesday night not only underlined his elite goal-scoring abilities but also heightened speculation about his future. European clubs including Chelsea and Al-Ahli have been linked with a move for the striker, but Galatasaray remain hopeful of keeping him beyond this season.

As Galatasaray eyes more silverware, Osimhen’s red-hot form could prove decisive once again in what is shaping up to be a landmark year for the Turkish giants.

Kebbi Approves ₦3.5bn Counterpart Funds for UBE Projects

By
Precious Obazee
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0

The Kebbi State Government, under the leadership of Governor Nasir Idris, has formally approved the sum of ₦3.5 billion as its counterpart funding for the 2024 Universal Basic Education (UBE) matching grant initiative.

This strategic financial commitment, announced by Professor Sulaiman Khalid, Executive Chairman of the Kebbi State Universal Basic Education Board, will facilitate access to a corresponding grant from the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), thereby mobilizing a total of ₦7.1 billion.

The allocated resources will be directed towards critical educational interventions, encompassing the construction and refurbishment of classrooms, procurement of school furniture, establishment of water and sanitation facilities, provision of ICT equipment, installation of perimeter fencing, and the supply of agricultural and sports infrastructure to primary and junior secondary schools throughout the state.

Oyo State Approves ₦4.5 Billion Relief Package for Bodija Explosion Victims

By
Tosin Onisuuru
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0

The Oyo State Government has approved a ₦4.5 billion relief fund to support victims and survivors of the devastating Bodija explosion, which occurred on January 16, 2024. The announcement was made following the State Executive Council meeting held on Wednesday at the Governor’s Office in Ibadan.

Governor Seyi Makinde had previously established a 10-member committee, chaired by Deputy Governor Bayo Lawal, on December 24, 2024, to oversee the disbursement and management of relief funds for those impacted by the explosion.

The tragic incident, caused by a water gel-type explosive accidentally ignited by an electric spark at house number 8, Aderinola Street, claimed at least five lives. The residence, leased by Malian national Mahmoud Camara, was reportedly used to store mining explosives illegally.

In addition to the fatalities, 78 people sustained injuries and 335 individuals were directly affected. The explosion damaged 58 houses, 16 businesses, places of worship, three schools, and even impacted the University College Hospital (UCH).

According to the State Commissioner for Information, Dotun Oyelade, the new relief package is separate from the over ₦200 million already spent by the government on emergency accommodation, food, medical care, and security after the incident.

The Council also approved a recommendation from the committee to revoke the titles of two properties near the explosion site on Adeyi Avenue. The government plans to erect a memorial on the revoked land to honour victims of the tragedy.

The Council condemned what it described as “deliberate misinformation and half-truths” from individuals claiming to represent affected residents. It insisted that the government has acted with diligence and compassion throughout the recovery process.

Some delays in disbursement, the Commissioner explained, were due to ongoing family disputes among beneficiaries, which required careful resolution by the committee.

The state will also assist property owners around Ground Zero to rebuild, based on recommendations by government-hired structural engineers. Additionally, the Ministry of Justice is working to prosecute the suspects currently in custody, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend others who remain at large.

The government’s announcement came just hours after the victims issued a public appeal decrying the delay in fund disbursement. In a joint statement titled “Bodija Community Still in Ashes: A Response to Oyo State Government”, signed by Muyiwa Bamgbose (President, Bodija Estate Residents’ Association) and Iyiola Oladokun (Chairman, Dejo Oyelese Vigilante Group), the community expressed frustration over the 11-week delay since the committee submitted its report on February 26.

The residents acknowledged the government’s initial emergency support but urged Governor Makinde to fulfil his commitment to justice and recovery.

“Today, 473 days later, Bodija remains in ashes,” the statement read. “This community of retired civil servants and professionals continues to mourn, rebuild, and plead—largely without consistent governmental support. Many live without homes, their dignity diminished, unfairly portrayed as ungrateful.”

They concluded with an emotional appeal: “The lives lost cannot be replaced, but the survivors’ lives can still be rebuilt with compassion, courage, and justice. Governor Makinde, please honour your promise. Bodija must not be forgotten. Bodija deserves healing. This is our plea.”

2025 UTME: JAMB Admits Glitches, Reschedules Exams

By
Precious Obazee
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0

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has admitted that technical glitches disrupted the performance of candidates during the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME).

Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja, JAMB Registrar, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, took responsibility for the challenges, attributing them to “sabotage.”

He announced that the Board has scheduled a fresh UTME for 379,997 affected candidates across the five South-East states and Lagos.

Oloyede disclosed that affected candidates will begin receiving text messages from JAMB starting Thursday, May 15, 2025.

Of the 1,955,069 results processed so far, only 4,756 candidates (0.24%) scored 320 and above, while 7,658 (0.39%) scored between 300 and 319—bringing the total number of candidates scoring 300 and above to just 12,414 (0.63%).

The sharp decline in performance this year has raised concerns among students, parents, and education stakeholders nationwide.

Federal Government Reviews Student Loan Programme, Launches Reform Panel

By
Precious Obazee
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1

The Federal Government has initiated a comprehensive review of the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFund) operations in universities nationwide, following mounting allegations of fraud in the disbursement process.

Minister of State for Education, Dr. Morufu Tunji Alausa, announced the review after a meeting in Abuja with university Vice Chancellors and the NELFund Managing Director.

He stated that the review seeks to improve transparency, ensure fair allocation, and streamline management of the student loan scheme.

To lead this process, a multi-stakeholder reform committee has been established, comprising representatives from universities, the National Universities Commission (NUC), NELFund, and the Ministry of Education.

The committee has been tasked with examining the current disbursement procedures, student notification systems, and overall management of the loan programme.

Dr. Alausa noted that while the system is operational, it lacks uniformity and must be refined to better serve students and institutions.

One of the key objectives is to standardize university charges and synchronize loan disbursement schedules with institutional calendars to prevent delays and improve accessibility.

The committee is expected to submit its report within three weeks, paving the way for new national guidelines to be finalized and published within a month.

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