Wike Warns APC National Secretary to Stay Out of Rivers Politics

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January 6, 2026

Reporting by the Nigerian Observer (via Leadership/The Nation feeds) indicates that FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has issued a stern warning to the APC National Secretary, Senator Ajibola Basiru, to refrain from interfering in the internal politics of Rivers State. Speaking during a visit to Oyigbo, Wike cautioned that the support given to President Tinubu should not be taken for granted and described the state as a ‘no-go area’ for external meddlers. The friction arose after Basiru reportedly warned APC leaders in Rivers to stop ‘disrespecting’ Governor Siminalayi Fubara. Wike countered by challenging ‘greedy politicians’ who he claims are only interested in the state’s treasury now that ‘food is ready,’ referencing the political stability and resources he helped secure. The political spat was also tracked by The Nation and Daily Post. The Nation reported that ‘Wike accuses Rivers political leaders of misleading Fubara,’ while Daily Post noted the APC scribe’s call for ‘Wike’s resignation as minister’ to face Rivers politics squarely.

Echotitbits take: The ‘cold war’ in Rivers has now turned into a multi-party proxy battle. Wike’s warning to the APC national leadership shows he is still the primary power broker in the state, despite his cabinet role in Abuja. Watch for whether this internal friction forces the presidency to mediate between its minister and the party’s secretariat.

Source: TheCable – https://www.thecable.ng/your-hands-will-burn-wike-warns-apc-national-secretary-basiru-to-steer-clear-of-rivers-politics/ January 6 2026

Photo Credit: TheCable

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Billionaire Wealth in Nigeria Surpasses South African Peers in 2025 Review

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B.O.B Echoload

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January 6, 2026

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Figures cited by BusinessDay show that Nigerian billionaires have overtaken their South African counterparts in combined net worth, with the total fortune of Nigeria’s top four listed billionaires hitting $43 billion. Abdul Samad Rabiu reportedly led the growth in 2025, moving up the ranks as Nigerian industrial sectors showed resilience despite foreign exchange fluctuations. The report notes that the shift in wealth dynamics is partly due to the expansion of Nigerian conglomerates into regional African markets and the stabilization of the Naira in late 2025. This marks a significant moment in the ‘wealth war’ between Africa’s two largest economies. This economic milestone was also mentioned by The Punch and Premium Times. The Punch noted that ‘Nigerian billionaires overtake South African peers,’ while Premium Times highlighted the ‘economics of coping’ for the broader population while the top tier sees record growth.

Echotitbits take: While billionaire growth is a sign of industrial strength, the ‘decoupling’ of elite wealth from the struggles of the average Nigerian remains a concern. The growth in Rabiu’s and Dangote’s fortunes suggests that local manufacturing is finally benefiting from the ‘Buy Nigeria’ policies and improved export routes.

Source: MarketsReporters – https://www.marketsreporters.com/2025/01/25/south-africa-overtakes-nigeria-in-dollar-billionaires-wealth/ January 6 2026

Photo Credit: MarketsReporters

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Renewed Voter Registration Exercise Kicks Off Across Nigeria

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B.O.B Echoload

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January 6, 2026

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In an update published by Vanguard, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially resumed its nationwide continuous voter registration (CVR) exercise today, January 6, 2026. This phase is intended to capture new voters, allow for transfers of registration, and enable the replacement of lost or damaged Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) ahead of upcoming off-cycle elections and the 2027 general polls. INEC officials emphasized that the process has been streamlined with more digital touchpoints to reduce queuing times at local government offices. The commission urged citizens who have turned 18 since the last exercise to take advantage of this window to ensure their participation in the democratic process. The resumption was also validated by Channels TV and Daily Post. Channels TV reported that ‘INEC resumes second phase of continuous voter registration,’ while Daily Post highlighted the importance of the exercise for the ‘Ekiti 2026’ off-cycle governorship election.

Echotitbits take: By starting the CVR early in 2026, INEC is attempting to avoid the last-minute rush that usually plagues Nigerian elections. The focus on Ekiti is a strategic test run for the commission’s new logistics and digital registration platforms. Expect civil society groups to ramp up mobilization campaigns this quarter.

Source: InsideBusiness – https://insidebusiness.ng/237638/inec-restarts-nationwide-voter-registration-as-second-phase-of-cvr-begins/ January 6 2026

Photo Credit: InsideBusiness

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Military Arrests Eight Suspects Linked to Market Suicide Bombing Network

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B.O.B Echoload

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January 6, 2026

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Reporting by TVC News (as cited in Channels TV feeds) indicates that troops of Operation Hadin Kai have successfully apprehended eight individuals in Adamawa State linked to the network behind the Gamboru Market Mosque suicide bombing. The operation, conducted in Mubi South Local Government Area, led to the capture of two principal suspects believed to be the primary facilitators of the attack. During the raid, security forces recovered cash, mobile phones, and identification documents currently undergoing forensic analysis. Military sources confirmed that an earlier suspect in custody provided the intelligence that led to the identification of these individuals as the suppliers of materials for the improvised explosive devices (IEDs). The counter-terrorism breakthrough was also reported by Daily Post and The Punch. Daily Post noted that ‘Troops seize terror supplies,’ while The Punch reported that ‘Sokoto strikes provide momentum’ for the military to expand operations across the North-East and North-West.

Echotitbits take: The arrest of facilitators is often more critical than neutralizing foot soldiers, as it disrupts the supply chain for IEDs. This success in Adamawa suggests improved intelligence-sharing between captured insurgents and the military. The focus will now shift to the forensic analysis of the seized mobile phones to track further cells.

Source: TheCable – https://www.thecable.ng/troops-arrest-eight-suspects-linked-to-borno-mosque-bombing/ January 6 2026

Photo Credit: TheCable

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Di’Ja Announces Birth of Her Fourth Child

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B.O.B Echoload

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January 5, 2026

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In a post shared by @aphrodija on Instagram, Mavin Records alumna Di’Ja has joyfully announced the arrival of her fourth child. The singer, known for her private family life, shared a glimpse of the newborn, sparking a wave of congratulatory messages.

The announcement comes after the singer had been relatively quiet on the music front, focusing on her family and personal business ventures. Di’Ja has been praised for her ability to balance a successful career with a growing family.

Colleagues like Tiwa Savage and Don Jazzy were among the first to send well-wishes. While she hasn’t released a full project recently, supporters are hopeful that the new addition will inspire a return to the studio later this year.

Verification from P.M. News stated: ‘Singer Di’Ja announces the arrival of her fourth child, sharing the good news with her fans.’ Naija News also reported the development, quoting the singer’s post: ‘We are beyond blessed to welcome our newest addition.’

Echotitbits take: Di’Ja has successfully carved out a niche as the ‘wholesome sweetheart’ of the scene. This birth announcement strengthens her brand, potentially leading to lucrative endorsements in the parenting sector.

Source: P.M. News – https://pmnewsnigeria.com/2026/01/04/dija-announces-arrival-of-fourth-child/ January 4, 2026
Photo Credit: P.M. News

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NBA Picks and 2026 Season Trends Heat Up Social Media

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B.O.B Echoload

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January 5, 2026

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In a video shared by StumpTheSpread on YouTube, experts have released their top NBA picks and player prop predictions for the January 5, 2026 slate. The analysis highlights a shift in betting trends, with stars like Victor Wembanyama and Anthony Edwards dominating.

NBA culture has seen a massive surge in Nigeria and the US this week, driven by high-scoring performances and viral tunnel fashion moments. Fans on TikTok have been recreating the pre-game outfits of stars like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.

The league’s 2026 season is being described as a ‘changing of the guard,’ with veterans taking on mentorship roles. This shift is also reflected in the music industry, where NBA players are increasingly being name-dropped in tracks.

According to Bleacher Report, ‘The 2026 NBA season is seeing record engagement in Africa, specifically Nigeria.’ ESPN corroborated the trend, noting: ‘Player props for January 5 show a heavy leaning toward the league’s rising stars.’

Echotitbits take: The NBA is no longer just a basketball league; it’s a lifestyle engine. The intersection of sports, fashion, and betting is where the money is moving in 2026 for both US and Nigerian fans.

Source: Nba – https://www.nba.com/news/trending-topics-early-2026-nba-finals-predictions January 4, 2026
Photo Credit: The Boston Globe

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Adekunle Gold Makes History as First Artist to Sell Out Wole Soyinka Centre

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B.O.B Echoload

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January 5, 2026

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According to Nigerian Entertainment Today (NET), Afrobeats star Adekunle Gold has been honored with a commemorative plaque after becoming the first musical artist to sell out the prestigious Wole Soyinka Centre for Arts and Culture. This is a major milestone for ‘AG Baby.’

The sell-out show featured a curated blend of music and theatrical performance, paying homage to the Nobel Laureate. The management of the venue praised Gold for his ‘artistic excellence’ and his ability to bridge the gap between contemporary music and classical arts.

Fans have hailed the achievement as a testament to Gold’s consistent growth. The artist, known for his impeccable fashion, described the honor as one of the most significant moments of his decade-long journey.

Validation from Daily Post Nigeria confirmed: ‘Adekunle Gold receives plaque for making history as the first artist to sell out the Wole Soyinka Centre.’ BellaNaija also highlighted the event, quoting a representative: ‘Adekunle Gold has set a new standard for live performances in this hall.’

Echotitbits take: Adekunle Gold is playing the long game. Selling out a venue named after Wole Soyinka isn’t just a concert win; it’s a cultural co-sign that elevates him into a ‘prestige’ category of artists.

Source:TheNation – https://thenationonlineng.net/adekunle-gold-becomes-first-artiste-to-sell-out-wole-soyinka-centre/ January 2, 2026
Photo Credit: TheNation

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Funke Akindele Robbery Detail Emerges via Bimbo Thomas

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B.O.B Echoload

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January 5, 2026

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In a recent interview shared by The Punch, Nollywood actress Bimbo Thomas recounted a terrifying incident where she and Funke Akindele were attacked by armed robbers during the filming of ‘Omo Ghetto.’ The story highlights the security risks faced by Nigerian film crews on location.

Thomas described how the gunmen stormed the set, threatening the cast and crew. She praised Akindele’s bravery during the ordeal, noting that the ‘A Tribe Called Judah’ star tried to protect her team despite the life-threatening situation.

The incident happened during a night shoot in a volatile area of Lagos. Since the story went viral, many industry veterans have come forward with similar tales, calling for the establishment of a dedicated security task force for movie sets.

Vanguard Nigeria corroborated the account, reporting: ‘Bimbo Thomas recounts how armed robbers attacked her and Funke Akindele, revealing the trauma they faced.’ The Nation Nigeria also covered the interview, quoting Thomas: ‘Funke was a lioness that day, standing up for all of us.’

Echotitbits take: Nollywood’s growth has outpaced its infrastructure. Funke Akindele is the industry’s biggest star, and the fact that she was exposed to such danger is a wake-up call for better production safety.

Source: The Punch — https://punchng.com/armed-robbers-attacked-funke-akindele-during-omo-ghetto-filming-actress-bimbo-thomas/#google_vignette January 5, 2026
Photo Credit: The Punch

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NBA YoungBoy Avoids Charges in Utah Drug Bust Case

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B.O.B Echoload

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January 5, 2026

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According to iHeartRadio’s WGCI-FM, American rapper NBA YoungBoy has successfully avoided new charges following a high-profile drug bust at his Utah residence. Legal representatives for the rapper confirmed that authorities did not find sufficient evidence to link him directly to the substances discovered.

The rapper, who has been under strict house arrest conditions, was facing potential jail time that could have derailed his prolific music career. The news of his clearance has been met with celebration from his loyal ‘Never Broke Again’ fanbase, who have been trending #FreeYB.

Despite this win, the rapper remains under close federal supervision. Legal experts suggest that while he avoided these specific charges, his past legal history ensures he will continue to be a focal point for law enforcement.

Further verification from HipHopDX states: ‘NBA YoungBoy avoids charges in the Utah drug bust, allowing him to focus on his upcoming musical releases.’ Complex also noted the development, quoting his attorney: ‘We are pleased with the outcome and remain committed to protecting our client’s rights.’

Echotitbits take: NBA YoungBoy is the ‘Houdini’ of Hip-Hop legal battles. This clearance is a huge relief for his label and streaming partners, as he remains one of the most-consumed artists in the digital space.

Source: Iheart – https://www.iheart.com/content/2026-01-01-nba-youngboy-avoids-charges-in-utah-drug-bust/ January 2, 2026
Photo Credit: Iheart

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Burna Boy and VDM Visit Kirikiri Prison to Free Inmates

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B.O.B Echoload

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January 5, 2026

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A TikTok video by @verydarkman_official has captured the moment global superstar Burna Boy and controversial activist VeryDarkMan (VDM) visited the Kirikiri Maximum Security Custodial Centre. During the visit, Burna Boy reportedly donated $145,000 to facilitate the release of inmates held for minor offenses.

The collaboration between the ‘African Giant’ and the social media critic has shocked many, given their vastly different public personas. The visit aims to draw attention to the plight of prisoners in the Nigerian correctional system and the need for judicial reform regarding petty crimes.

Crowds gathered at the prison gates as the duo arrived, with Burna Boy seen interacting with the facility’s officials. This move marks a significant shift for the singer toward more direct social activism in 2026.

As documented by The Nation Nigeria, ‘Burna Boy and VDM’s visit to Kirikiri has elicited massive talk online, particularly regarding the singer’s $145k donation.’ Vanguard Nigeria further supported the development, quoting an official: ‘The donation will be used strictly for the legal fees and fines of those eligible for release.’

Echotitbits take: This is a masterclass in PR and social impact. By partnering with VDM, Burna Boy taps into a grassroots audience that values ‘street’ credibility and direct action. It positions him as a local benefactor.

Source: Tribune — https://tribuneonlineng.com/burna-boy-verydarkman-visit-kirikiri-set-to-pay-fines-for-inmates/ January 5, 2026
Photo Credit: Tribune

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