Good morning, Nigeria. Welcome to today’s Naturenex roundup of the leading headlines making waves across the country this Thursday, 8th May 2025.
1. Defence Minister Counters House of Reps’ Claim on Terrorists’ Weaponry
Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Mohammed Abubakar Badaru, has refuted claims by the House of Representatives suggesting terrorists wield more sophisticated weapons than the country’s military forces.
Speaking during a ministerial briefing in Abuja on Wednesday, the Minister insisted Nigeria boasts superior equipment, advanced drones, and a capable armed force.
“This ministry is a very interesting one because it affects the lives of everyone. Yesterday, the House of Representatives said that terrorists have better weapons than we do. That is absolutely not true. We have much more sophisticated equipment and drones,” he remarked.
His statement was a direct rebuttal to concerns raised by lawmakers lamenting recent terror attacks, notably by Boko Haram. Badaru clarified that the military is engaged in guerrilla warfare, not conventional battle, hence requiring distinct tactics.
2. Labour Party Suspends Governor Otti, Senators Kingibe, Nwokocha, and Others
The Labour Party has indefinitely suspended six of its notable figures, including Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, and Senators Darlington Nwokocha and Ireti Kingibe.
According to Naturenex, the party’s National Executive Council (NEC) ratified this decision based on a disciplinary panel’s recommendation earlier this month.
The suspension, announced via a statement from National Secretary Umar Farouk Ibrahim, also affects Victor Afam Ogene, Amobi Ogah, and Seyi Sowumi. All are now barred from participating in any Labour Party-related activities.
3. Senate Approves Two Major Tax Reform Bills
The Nigerian Senate has passed two out of four crucial tax reform bills currently under review.
Naturenex reports the approved bills include the repeal of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (Establishment) Act and the establishment of the Joint Revenue Board Bill 2025 alongside the Nigeria Revenue Service Bill 2025.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio described this move as pivotal for strengthening national governance and economic management, confirming that the Senate aims to finalize the remaining bills by Thursday.
4. Goodluck Jonathan Warns Against One-Party State Ambitions
Former President Goodluck Jonathan has voiced concerns over the potential risks of turning Nigeria into a one-party state.
Speaking during a memorial lecture in Abuja honoring elder statesman Edwin Clark, Jonathan cautioned against attempts to manipulate the political space for personal ambitions.
He stressed that such moves could destabilize the country’s democracy, saying any country considering such a system must do so with “careful planning, foresight, and clear objectives.” He also advocated for an annual memorial lecture in Edwin Clark’s honour.
5. Sowunmi Dismisses Atiku’s Importance Over PDP’s Survival
Prominent PDP member Segun Sowunmi has made it clear that no individual, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, is indispensable to the party’s survival.
In an interview with Nigerian Info FM 99.3, Sowunmi stated, “Nigeria’s need to stop this hero worshipping is our problem in this country. I’m talking to you about the party, and you want me to reduce it to one person, however highly placed?”
He recalled that PDP remained standing despite the exits and reduced involvement of figures like former Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan.
6. EFCC Frees VeryDarkMan
Popular social media activist Martins Otse, better known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), has regained his freedom after being detained by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
According to Naturenex, VDM was arrested last Friday following multiple petitions. His detention sparked widespread criticism online, particularly among Nigerian youths.
Activist Omoyele Sowore confirmed his release via Facebook with the simple message: “VDM Released!”
7. Davido Sends ₦10 Million To Odumodublvck’s Girlfriend
Rapper Odumodublvck has revealed that Afrobeats star Davido gifted his girlfriend a whopping ₦10 million.
During an interview with Beat 99.9 FM, he expressed his gratitude, saying, “Shoutout to Davido, that’s my brother. Two days ago, he sent N10M to my girlfriend, he sent the money for being a real gee.”
He credited his girlfriend’s unwavering support as a vital contributor to his recent successes.
8. Simi: ‘I Have Been Hurt, But Never Heartbroken’
Award-winning singer Simi has opened up about her emotional experiences, sharing that while she has faced pain, she’s never been heartbroken.
Speaking in a recent chat with VJ Adams, she explained how she prioritizes her mental health by distancing herself from toxic situations.
Simi noted that this practice extends beyond romantic relationships to friendships and other areas of life.
9. Zamalek Sack Former Super Eagles Coach Jose Peseiro
Egyptian football club Zamalek has officially terminated the contract of Jose Peseiro, the former coach of Nigeria’s Super Eagles.
The decision follows a disappointing 2-2 draw against National Bank, adding to the club’s frustrations after their early exit from the CAF Confederation Cup.
In a statement, Zamalek thanked Peseiro for his contributions, saying, “Zamalek and Jose Peseiro agree to end the relationship by mutual consent. We wish him the best in future endeavors.”
10. PSG Book Champions League Final Against Inter Milan
Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) have secured a place in this season’s UEFA Champions League final after defeating Arsenal 2-1 in the semi-final’s second leg, completing a 3-1 aggregate victory.
PSG’s Fabián Ruiz opened the scoring in the 27th minute before Achraf Hakimi added a second in the 72nd. Although Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka pulled one back in the 76th minute, it was not enough to overturn the deficit.
With this result, PSG will face Inter Milan in a final showdown as they chase their long-awaited first European title.
That’s it for today’s top stories. Stay connected with Naturenex for more fresh, authoritative updates tomorrow.
