🇳🇬NigeriaWest Africa
PDP leadership crisis deepens as zonal chairmen prepare for interim takeover; Lufthansa strike strands Nigerian passengers
via Punch Nigeria2 min read
The Peoples Democratic Party PDP is facing an escalating leadership crisis as zonal chairmen signal their readiness to assume interim national leadership. This move is contingent on courts upholding the expulsion of National Secretary, Senator Samuel Anyanwu, and nullifying conventions linked to his actions. Rival factions within the party continue to engage in legal disputes. Meanwhile, a strike by pilots and cabin crew at German carrier Lufthansa has caused flight disruptions, leaving some Nigerian passengers stranded and forcing others to spend nights at airports. Affected passengers were rebooked on alternative carriers, including Royal Air Maroc, though some reported poor communication and further flight postponements due to technical issues with the Moroccan airline.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
Nigerian afro-house singer Niniola Apata has shared an emotional tribute to her late husband, Michael Ndika, highlighting his crucial role in her music career. In a video, the Grammy-nominated artist recounted how Ndika, CEO of NaijaReview, shaped her professional and personal life. Ndika passed away on May 19, 2026, at 44 years old. Niniola described their relationship as a "love story," stating that he was her engine and helped her achieve success in the music industry. She revealed that he encouraged her to continue with music even when she considered taking a break. Niniola also expressed the profound void left by his death, calling him the most important person in her life. She thanked the Ndika family for their acceptance and apologized to those affected by the circumstances surrounding the disclosure of his death, which surprised many fans who were unaware of her marriage.
Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State has received widespread commendation from notable Nigerians and international organizations for the transformations recorded across critical sectors in the state over the past three years. The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa retd., praised Governor Lawal on February 18, 2026, for procuring sophisticated military hardware, including 25 Armoured Personnel Carriers and an endurance surveillance drone, to combat banditry, stating that Zamfara could resemble Dubai with continued efforts. On October 29, 2025, Joseph Obule Odama, Commandant of the National Institute for Security Studies, lauded Governor Lawal for transforming Zamfara from a state of negativity to positivity despite significant challenges. On April 10, 2026, UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed led a UN team to Zamfara, expressing the organization's willingness to partner with the state, highlighting its potential in mining and markets, and the leadership's commitment. The Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, commended Governor Lawal on April 21, 2026, for his "uncommon" support for military operations. The Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria BON awarded Governor Lawal the Infrastructure Governor of the Year on April 19, 2026, for his administration's urban renewal projects, including the construction of a modern International Airport and the refurbishment of over 800 schools. On December 13, 2025, Zamfara State was recognized as the best-perform
Must ReadColombian pop superstar Shakira and Nigerian Afrobeats star Burna Boy will perform the official song of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, "Dai Dai," at the tournament's opening ceremony in Mexico City on June 11. They will take the stage at Estadio Azteca before the opening match between Mexico and South Africa. FIFA stated that "Dai Dai" is a celebration of football's power to unite people and that Shakira and Burna Boy bring together two of the world's most influential musical voices. Colombian reggaeton star J Balvin and South African singer-songwriter Tyla are also scheduled to perform during the Mexico City show. Other opening ceremonies are planned, with Michael Bublé and Alanis Morissette performing in Canada on June 12, and Katy Perry and Future performing in the United States. Shakira is also scheduled to co-headline the tournament's first Super Bowl-style halftime show at the World Cup final on July 19 alongside Madonna and K-pop group BTS.
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