The diplomatic air between Abuja and Washington thickened over the weekend after U.S. President Donald Trump tagged Nigeria a “Country of Particular Concern” over alleged persecution of Christians — a move the Tinubu administration calls an “orchestrated political attack.”
Presidential aide, Bayo Onanuga, in a Sunday statement, said Tinubu saw the move coming and had already instructed military commanders to act decisively against emerging threats. The President dismissed the U.S. claim, stressing Nigeria remains a multi-faith democracy where both Christians and Muslims face security challenges.
Meanwhile, Bayelsa Governor Douye Diri confirmed his defection from PDP to APC, saying it’s in the interest of his people. The Governor is expected to formally join the ruling party today in Yenagoa.
Former Ekiti Governor Ayodele Fayose threw a bombshell on Sunday, declaring that the PDP “is dead and gone”, blaming the current leadership for destroying the party’s future.
Also, former presidential candidate Rabiu Kwankwaso urged Donald Trump to provide technological and intelligence support to Nigeria instead of threatening military intervention, warning that careless remarks could deepen insecurity.
In other reports, a Warri–Itakpe train derailed three days after service resumed, sparking renewed safety concerns. The NRC blamed track vandalism but confirmed no casualties.
Operatives of NDLEA uncovered an illegal Colorado drug lab in Lagos, arresting 30-year-old Stephen Imoh and seizing large quantities of synthetic cannabis.
On the entertainment side, singer Simi lamented Nigeria’s mass exodus of youths, saying “nobody would japa if the country worked better.”
Online drama also brewed as TikToker Jarvis threatened to sue fellow influencer Peller over money laundering allegations. Her management demanded a public apology or face legal action.
In sports, Erling Haaland’s double powered Man City to second place in the Premier League, while Barcelona bounced back with a 3-1 win against Elche, thanks to goals from Lamine Yamal and Marcus Rashford.
