A peaceful burial ceremony in Aleto, Eleme Local Government Area of Rivers State, descended into tragedy when a presiding cleric collapsed and died while delivering a sermon on mortality. The deceased, identified as Deacon Steve Eyo, was the Resident Pastor of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) in Aleto. According to eyewitness accounts, over 300 mourners were in attendance, listening to the cleric`s sermon titled "The Certainty of Death and Hope Beyond." During the sermon, Deacon Eyo reportedly emphasized the unpredictable nature of mortality, comparing human life to a marketplace where some departures happen early and others later. "Number your days and prepare, for it can happen anytime," the pastor reportedly told the congregation moments before the tragedy struck. At approximately 1:25 p.m., roughly 15 minutes into his message, the cleric abruptly dropped his microphone and collapsed to the ground. Because the sermon had focused heavily on the suddenness of death, several attendees initially believed the collapse was a dramatic illustration to enforce his point. However, the congregation quickly realized the minister was in severe medical distress. Church ministers and choir members immediately gathered to administer first aid while offering prayers. In a desperate bid to save his life, Deacon Eyo was rushed to a nearby medical facility using the same ambulance hired to convey the remains of the deceased individual being buried. He was pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital, and his body was subsequently moved to the mortuary. The incident has left the local community, church members, and the bereaved family in deep shock, mourning a minister whose final words tragically mirrored his own sudden passing.

Thirty-three years after the legendary television series captivated millions across Nigeria, Agbara Nla: The Return has triumphantly roared back, rewriting the history books of West African cinema before its official wider release,THENEWSCREDIT reports. In an unprecedented box office feat, the modern faith-based reimagining generated a staggering ₦71 million from a single-day preview screening, setting a new benchmark as the biggest single-day preview gross ever recorded in West African history. Data released by box office analysis platform Nigerian Box Office (@NGAboxoffice) reveals that the cinematic phenomenon pulled in 12,134 admissions between September 25 and October 1, immediately seizing the No. 1 spot nationwide . The figures represent both the highest first-day admissions and the biggest opening-day gross for any Nollywood title in 2026. Distributors of the film, THENEWSCREDIT reports that the Nile Entertainment, confirmed the record-breaking run, celebrating the historic milestone . "From the biggest first-day gross for a Nollywood title to the biggest faith-based opener of all time... The Legend didn’t just return. It roared back," the distributor announced in a statement, noting that earnings have already surpassed the ₦71 million mark. Agbara Nla: The Return is a direct, contemporary continuation of the iconic 1993 classic created by pioneering Christian filmmaker Mike Bamiloye (later translated into English as The Ultimate Power in 1994) . The new blockbuster breathes fresh life into the gripping narrative of Muwonleru, a village firmly under the spiritual chokehold of the powerful herbalist, Isawuru. The peace of the kingdom is disrupted when two devout believers, Olaboye and Olatomi, abandon their urban lives to introduce Christianity to the community—sparking a high-stakes, explosive confrontation between divine faith and ancient occult powers. Bridging generations of viewers, Mike Bamiloye reprises his legendary, terrifying role as Isawuru. The production is a true family torch-passing, directed by his sons, Damilola Mike-Bamiloye and Joshua Bamiloye. The star-studded ensemble cast also features standout performances from Gloria Mike-Bamiloye, Aanu Kolade Abiodun, Remilekun Mosiko, Philip Olubakin, and David Kola Okeowo. Bringing old-school nostalgia together with modern, state-of-the-art cinema production, Agbara Nla: The Return is currently showing in theatres nationwide. Given its historic momentum, industry analysts predict the film is on track to become one of the highest-grossing Nollywood films of the decade.

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has called on the President Bola Tinubu administration to move beyond economic data and deliver visible relief to citizens, declaring that genuine national progress cannot be measured by statistics alone. In a powerful message to mark Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary, the apex Christian body argued that the true success of government policies must be judged by whether ordinary households can afford food, young people can find jobs, and communities are safe from terror. The statement, signed by CAN President Archbishop Daniel Okoh, acknowledged the federal government`s ongoing transition from painful economic restructuring toward promised prosperity. However, the association maintained that the Tinubu administration must make reducing the cost of food, transportation, and energy its most urgent priority. “Nigerians who have withstood prolonged economic hardship merit the commencement of observable amelioration in their quotidian circumstances,” the statement read. “Prosperity that does not reach the ordinary Nigerian home remains incomplete.” Demands for Transparent Social Safety Nets CAN further challenged the government to strengthen its social protection programs, demanding that support for vulnerable families, healthcare, education, and affordable credit be administered transparently. The body warned that these critical interventions must be strictly protected from corruption and diversion. Addressing the nation`s ongoing security crisis, CAN emphasized that economic growth is impossible without safety. The association urged the military and security agencies to sustain their offensive against criminals to restore public confidence. “There can be no meaningful prosperity where citizens cannot farm, trade, travel, or sleep peacefully because of fear,” Archbishop Okoh stated. Looking ahead to the political landscape, CAN also delivered a stern warning to political actors as alignment for the 2027 general elections begins. The body cautioned against using religion to divide the electorate. “CAN again reminds all political actors that no politician is the Messiah,” the statement warned. “Christians are free to support or criticise any candidate, but the name of Jesus Christ must not be dragged into partisan rivalry or used as a political weapon.” Reaffirming its stance as a non-partisan moral voice, CAN stated it will continue to commend government achievements when right, speak out when citizens are hurting, and hold leaders strictly accountable to the values of justice, transparency, and compassion.

The Presidency has launched a fierce counter-offensive against politicians and opposition figures who criticized President Bola Tinubu’s Independence Day national broadcast, accusing them of executing a scripted agenda driven by blind bias rather than national interest. Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, delivered the rebuke on Friday, claiming that many of the critics had already prepared their hostile reactions well before the President delivered his October 1 address. He argued that the immediate wave of condemnation proved that the detractors were completely uninterested in the substance or facts of the broadcast. According to Onanuga, these critics deliberately chose to ignore what he described as an “immutable truth” contained in the President’s speech regarding the root causes of the nation`s financial troubles. He maintained that the administration`s controversial economic policies were not designed to inflict hardship but were necessary interventions to save a collapsing system. Quoting the President directly to reinforce his point, Onanuga wrote: “Our reforms did not create the weaknesses in our economy. They confronted them.” The presidential aide insisted that previous administrations had merely kicked the can down the road, leaving the Tinubu government to make the difficult but unavoidable corrections. The Presidency also issued a stern warning against rising public calls to abandon the ongoing fiscal adjustments, particularly regarding the return of the controversial petrol and foreign exchange subsidy regimes. Echoing Tinubu`s words, Onanuga described such appeals as a dangerous “siren song” and characterized the old subsidy system as an "addictive" habit that would ruin the country if revived. Defending the tangible impact of the administration`s policy direction, the Presidency pointed to new macroeconomic data as proof of a positive turnaround. Onanuga highlighted that despite widespread skepticism, the strategic structural adjustments have successfully steered the nation back toward sustainable wealth creation. Specifically, the aide referenced the President`s declaration that Nigeria’s economy has achieved over 4 per cent growth this year. The administration emphasized that this performance represents a significant milestone in its efforts to diversify the economy away from a singular reliance on crude oil revenues. The Presidency concluded by stating that both the oil and non-oil sectors have actively contributed to this renewed period of stable growth. Onanuga reaffirmed that the federal government remains resolute in its commitment to the "Renewed Hope" agenda, vowing that the administration will not back down on its reformist path under political pressure.

The Super Eagles of Nigeria have arrived in Moscow ahead of their high-profile international friendly match against Russia, scheduled for next Tuesday, October 6. The Nigerian delegation touched down in the Russian capital on Friday afternoon as they look to put behind them a disappointing 3-0 defeat against Guinea-Bissau in their recent 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier. Head coach Eric Chelle’s men are scheduled to hold their first tactical training session immediately on Friday evening to acclimatise to the weather. Tuesday’s showdown at the 44,000-capacity Nizhny Novgorod Stadium will mark only the second time these two footballing nations face off at the senior international level. Their initial meeting in June 2025 at the Luzhniki Stadium ended in a hard-fought 1-1 draw, where a second-half equalizer saved the day for Nigeria. Having faced criticism over their recent qualification slump, the three-time African champions view this friendly as a crucial litmus test. Facing a Russian side that recently cruised to a 2-0 victory over Iran, Nigeria will need to dig deep to salvage pride on European soil. The Super Eagles camp features a significantly altered roster following a wave of player withdrawals. Key mainstays—including captain Wilfred Ndidi, Ola Aina, Samuel Chukwueze, and Kelechi Iheanacho—are notable absentees due to injury and logistical setbacks. In response, the technical crew has infused the squad with several Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) standouts alongside late replacements like Vince Osuji and John Otomewo. Coach Chelle, who joined the team directly in Russia, expects to use this window to evaluate fresh talent before the upcoming U23 tournament commitments in November.

The Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, has stated that no individual should be forced to embrace Islam. He urged Muslims nationwide to respect the basic rights and personal freedoms of people of other faiths. Speaking at the NSCIA General Assembly hosted at the National Mosque in Abuja, the Sultan emphasized that any genuine conversion to Islam must come from free will. "We do not intend to force anybody to join Islam," the Sultan said. "But we have seen how many people have been joining Islam on their own free will because Almighty Allah said there is no compulsion in religion." The Sultan`s remarks address ongoing concerns regarding religious intolerance and social friction among different faith groups in Nigeria. He recently advised both Christians and Muslims to stop insulting each other, noting that mutual respect remains vital for peaceful coexistence. Addressing the International Conference on National Security for Socio-economic Development in Abuja—organized by JIBWIS Nigeria alongside the Muslim World League of Saudi Arabia—Abubakar called for active tolerance. "We must be honest with ourselves that Christians can stop insulting Muslims," he noted. "Muslims can stop insulting Christians. And that’s how we live in peace." He added that neither religion is superior to the other, as all people stand equal before God. THENEWSCREDIT reports that At the same assembly, NSCIA Secretary-General Prof. Ishaq Oloyede urged Muslim parents to provide their children with both Islamic and Western education, stating that modern competence requires a strong foundation in both. "The most educationally disadvantaged states are Muslim states," Oloyede stated. "The current generation must be sound in both Islamic and Western education." Professor Is-haq Oloyede has called for significant reforms to public policy and religious administration, advocating for the equitable representation of qualified Muslims in employment sectors and the media. Speaking on key national issues, he urged the government to scale back its involvement in organizing the Hajj pilgrimage to a purely facilitative role. Furthermore, Oloyede proposed an immediate end to government-sponsored pilgrimages, emphasizing that public funds should not be used to sponsor individuals who cannot afford the journey on their own. The leadership`s statements underscore a unified push by the NSCIA toward religious tolerance, educational development, and sensible public policy.

The Kano State Police Command has threatened to arrest the two rival Emirs of Kano, Mallam Muhammadu Sanusi II and Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero, if they violate the state`s ongoing ban on public horse riding and Durbar activities. The State Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, issued the stern warning following declarations by the 15th Emir, Aminu Ado Bayero, that "nobody will stop him from going on horse riding despite the government ban." Addressing journalists in Kano, Commissioner Bakori emphasized that the security directives remain fully in force and are binding on all citizens, regardless of their social status or position. He noted that the security threats which initially triggered the state government`s ban are still highly potent. To enforce order, the police command has established a mandatory 72-hour notification protocol for any exceptions. "Any person, institution, or organisation that deems it very pertinent to undertake any form of Durbar and/or Horse/Animal-Riding activity in a public place in the State is required to give at least 72 hours prior notice in writing to the Kano State Police Command through the Office of the State Commissioner of Police," Bakori stated. The 72-hour window is designed to allow security agencies to conduct necessary threat assessments and deploy personnel to ensure public safety. The Commissioner recalled that the Kano State Government recently prohibited all forms of Durbar and horse riding across the state after extensive consultations with security stakeholders to preserve public peace. However, recent intelligence reports indicated "apparent breaches" of these directives, prompting the latest law enforcement crackdown. Reassuring residents of their safety, Bakori stated that the primary responsibility of law enforcement remains the maintenance of public peace and order. "We cannot afford to allow any act that will breach the peace and jeopardise public safety. All concerned are therefore urged to comply strictly with all lawful security directives and to cooperate with the security agencies," he added.

The Ekiti State Government has declared Monday, October 5, 2026, a work-free day for all teachers across the state to commemorate the 2026 World Teachers’ Day. The decision is aimed at allowing educators to participate fully in activities lined up for the annual global event. In a statement released on Thursday, the State Commissioner for Education, Dr Olabimpe Aderiye, explained that the gesture reflects the administration’s desire to give teachers a dedicated opportunity to celebrate alongside colleagues and critical stakeholders. She emphasized that the holiday serves as a platform to highlight the vital and indispensable role teachers play in driving the education sector. As a direct consequence of the declaration, the state government has directed all day students in public primary and secondary schools across Ekiti State to stay at home on Monday. Dr Aderiye urged parents, guardians, school administrators, and students to take note of the directive and adjust their schedules accordingly. Lauding the workforce, the Commissioner commended Ekiti teachers for their unwavering dedication, professionalism, and commitment to nurturing young minds and advancing the state`s academic standards. While congratulating the educators on the global milestone, she reiterated the state government’s continuous support, appreciation, and commitment to improving teachers` welfare while safeguarding the future of Ekiti children.

Portugal head coach Jorge Jesus has broken his silence on the civil war engulfing the national team, insisting he has a "clear conscience" following the dramatic fallout that led to captain Cristiano Ronaldo storming out of the squad`s camp. The stunning fracture between the manager and the country`s greatest footballing icon has sent shockwaves through the sport, plunging Portugal`s international campaign into immediate chaos. The national team was rocked to its core on Wednesday when Ronaldo abruptly packed his bags and abandoned his teammates. The veteran forward’s sudden departure came at the worst possible time, right on the eve of Portugal’s highly anticipated UEFA Nations League clash against Denmark, leaving the squad without its longtime leader and talisman. Sources close to the camp reveal that the 41-year-old superstar was left furious by Jesus’s recent handling of his squad status. The tension reached a boiling point following Sunday`s match against Norway, where Ronaldo was left as an unused substitute, watching the entirety of the game from the bench—a decision that visibly agitated the veteran striker. The situation deteriorated rapidly during the post-match press conference, where Jesus made pointed remarks explaining his tactical decisions. Ronaldo reportedly viewed the manager`s public comments as a direct sign of disrespect, ultimately triggering his decision to cut ties with the squad and exit the international camp ahead of schedule. Following his dramatic exit, Ronaldo heightened the brewing drama by issuing a cryptic, hard-hitting statement to the public. The former Real Madrid and Manchester United star vowed that he would not remain silent, promising his global fan base that he would eventually reveal the absolute "truth" about the toxic internal politics that led to his departure. Despite the immense media storm and mounting pressure from fans, Jesus has refused to back down or apologize for his managerial choices. Speaking directly to Sport TV, the head coach maintained a remarkably calm demeanor, projecting total confidence in his actions despite the risk of permanently alienating the country`s captain. “I am completely relaxed, with a clear conscience regarding this situation," Jesus asserted, drawing a firm line under the immediate controversy. Dismissing further speculation for the time being, the manager added a ominous preview of what is to come: "After Sunday’s match, we will talk about everything.”

As Nigeria marks its 66th Independence Anniversary, the Osun Civil Societies Coalition (OCSC) has strongly urged the Federal Government to rethink its proposed plan to completely phase out the electricity subsidy by 2027. The group warned that removing the subsidy would place unbearable pressure on households, workers, traders, farmers, artisans, and micro-businesses already struggling under the heavy weight of escalating costs for food, housing, and transportation. In a poignant Independence Day statement signed by its Chairman, Waheed Lawal, the coalition argued that national independence must mean more than mere political freedom. The OCSC stressed that true self-governance must translate into economic dignity, rapid social development, improved living conditions, and universal access to basic essential services for ordinary citizens. According to the coalition, any substantial hike in electricity tariffs will directly increase manufacturing production costs, severely reduce the disposable income of average families, and threaten the survival of small and medium-sized enterprises. The group maintained that for a developing economy, reliable electricity must be coupled with affordability to drive meaningful growth. Consequently, the OCSC urged the Federal Government to prioritize resolving the deeply entrenched structural challenges within the electricity sector before contemplating subsidy withdrawal. Specifically, the group highlighted technical and commercial losses, widespread electricity theft, inadequate infrastructure, insufficient metering, estimated billing, and revenue leakages as areas requiring urgent remediation. Furthermore, the coalition called for absolute transparency from the government regarding the financial basis of the proposed 2027 phase-out. They demanded that Nigerians be given full access to detailed information regarding the annual cost of the subsidy, projected savings, and the exact expected effects of the policy on future electricity tariffs. The statement also challenged the administration to explicitly disclose the anticipated impact of the policy change on vulnerable populations, including manufacturers and small-scale farmers. The OCSC insisted that the government must openly declare what safety nets and protective measures are being introduced to shield fragile consumer classes from the impending economic shock. While the coalition acknowledged and commended the Federal Government and the Minister of Power, Chief Joseph Olasunkanmi Tegbe, for recent visible improvements in electricity supply within Osun State and other parts of the country, it insisted that these gains must be consolidated. The group concluded by reminding leaders that Nigerians deserve a country where political freedom is matched by economic opportunity and a standard of living that reflects human dignity.