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Burna Boy Alleges Efforts by Nigerian Music Industry Gatekeepers to Break Him

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Grammy winner Burna Boy has said that gatekeepers in the Nigerian music industry did all in their power to impede his career’s advancement.

He revealed this in response to a widely shared excerpt from a recent interview in which seasoned music producer Obi Asika asserted that Burna Boy’s development was thwarted by some gatekeepers in the Nigerian music industry, but he rose above them and became well-known worldwide.

Burna Boy said, “This is not even half of the story,” in the Instagram comments section of a blog that shared the video. To break me, they did everything they could. Still, they are making every effort. LOL. All they did, however, was start this unquenchable fire that will burn them forever.

When his breakthrough song “Like To Party” from his debut album “L.I.F.E (Leaving an Impact for Eternity)” was released, Burna Boy became a nationwide sensation.

Read Also: ‘Some Forces Converted APC Into A Structure Not In Best Interest Of Nigeria’ – Ex-minister, Ikimi

The years that followed saw him reduced to the status of an underground artist due to failures in his career.

However, his career took off on a global scale when his breakthrough single, “Ye,” from the highly regarded album “Outside,” was released.

Burna Boy was once again patronized by Nigerian music leaders and fans after his breakthrough abroad.

Over the past several years, he has been the most popular African touring performer.

‘Some Forces Converted APC Into A Structure Not In Best Interest Of Nigeria’ – Ex-minister, Ikimi

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Former Foreign Affairs Minister Tom Ikimi, a founding member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has said that after the party was created, some forces took control of it and changed it into a structure that was not beneficial to the nation.
According to reports, Ikimi, a national leader of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), said this during a meeting of stakeholders in Benin City, Edo State, on Thursday, April 24, 2025.
“The APC was expected to serve as an alternative to the former ruling PDP at the time of its formation,” he said, adding that the goal was to recreate the two-party system that is in place in the United States and Britain.

Ikimi asserts that the APC is currently in a desperate attempt to eliminate the opposition party and establish a one-party dictatorship.
According to his judgment, the APC was taken over by some elements and changed into a structure that was not optimal for our country, he stated. All of us have seen their operations thus far, as well as the catastrophe we are currently experiencing.

“The APC is now a group of individuals with only selfish interests.

Even with the serious challenges our nation is currently facing under the APC, it appears that all that is being offered to us are frantic attempts to dismantle the PDP in order to turn the nation into a one-party dictatorship. I am convinced that the PDP’s survival is the only viable path ahead for our nation at this time.

Read Also: Peter Obi: N20,000 Is Paid to Youths to Cause Confusion Across Nigeria

Ikimi spoke on the party’s current problem and bemoaned the way that individual goals were undermining the PDP’s power and unity in the South-South.

He said the fierce attack was the reason Delta State PDP members defected to the APC.

“This stakeholders meeting is really important,” he continued. It makes it very evident to the nation that Edo State’s PDP is robust and active. Lately, the South South Region has been under heavy APC onslaught.

According to news reports, our Delta State Governor defected to the APC, and his predecessor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, also defected to the APC. I am aware of the steps we took in the PDP to award our party’s ticket to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and to provide the vice presidential ticket to his predecessor.

“At this point, all I can say is that it is really too early to feel too sorry for yourself. It would be accurate to state that Delta residents have not yet spoken up in remembrance of the PDP’s crushing defeat in 2023 to Senator Peter Obi of the Labour Party, who was running without a governor at the time.

Peter Obi: N20,000 Is Paid to Youths to Cause Confusion Across Nigeria

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Some unidentified individuals, according to Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential contender, pay Nigerian youths as little as N20,000 and N40,000 in an attempt to confuse the country’s electoral system.

According to Obi, who was speaking at John Hopkins University in the United States on the topic of “Politics and Change in Nigeria,” young people have been tricked into fighting against others who genuinely care about them.

He reminded young Nigerians that collecting money, especially peanuts, will ruin their promising future and that they should look for better methods to include transactional politics for the benefit of both themselves and the country.

Read Also: US Visa-Free Entry for 90 Days: Nigeria Missing from Eligible Countries List

“People pay them to create confusion,” Obi stated. “As I stand here now, look at social media. All of the people who are being paid N20,000 to N40,000 a month to abuse you are young people who are fighting for their lives.”

According to the former governor of Anambra State, “you can get it right in Nigeria’s transactional politics, even though I am almost 60 and only have a few years left.”

US Visa-Free Entry for 90 Days: Nigeria Missing from Eligible Countries List

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Through a unique agreement known as the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), citizens of 43 nations can now enter the United States for up to 90 days without a visa.
Before leaving on their trip, these individuals must, however, fulfill specific requirements and receive approval via the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA).
The US Customs and Border Protection administers the ESTA online system, which establishes a traveler’s eligibility for visa-free travel under the VWP. Note that travelers must apply for ESTA in advance and that their stay cannot be longer than 90 days.
Nigeria is not on the list of nations, though.

Both business and tourism are permitted uses of the VWP.

The US government further said that residents of a VWP nation will not be eligible for ESTA if:

On or after March 1, 2011, you have traveled to or been in North Korea, Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, or Yemen.

Read Also: EPL Transfer: Cunha’s Move to Manchester United Almost Finalized

1. You traveled to or were in Cuba on or after January 12, 2021.

2. You are a dual national of Iran, Iraq, Sudan, Syria, North Korea, or Cuba.

3. Instead of applying for the VWP, you must apply for a regular B-1/B-2 visitor visa if any of the aforementioned circumstances apply to you.

The list of nations eligible for the waiver program can be found below.

Andorra, first
2. Australia 3. Austria 4. Belgium 5. Brunei 6. Chile
7. Croatia,
8. Czech Republic 9. Denmark 10. Estonia
11. The Nordic nation
12. The French.
13. The Germans
14. Greece 15. Hungary
16. The island of Iceland
17. Ireland 18. Israel 19. Italy 20. Japan 21. Latvia 22. Liechtenstein 23. Lithuania 24. Luxembourg 25. Malta 26. Monaco
27. New Zealand 28. Netherlands
29. Norway 30. Poland
Republic of Korea (South Korea) 33. Portugal 32. Qatar 34. Romania 35. San Marino
36. Singapore; 37. Slovakia; 38. Slovenia; 39. Spain; 40. Sweden; 41. Switzerland
42. Taiwan 43. The United Kingdom

EPL Transfer: Cunha’s Move to Manchester United Almost Finalized

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Globo says that Matheus Cunha’s transfer from Wolves to Manchester United is reportedly nearing its “final stages.”

Despite being extensively linked to leaving the Molineux in January, Cunha ultimately agreed to a new deal with the team.

After having an incredible season in which he scored 14 goals and provided four assists in the Premier League, the Brazilian has been in high demand.

Cunha’s play has helped Wolves virtually maintain their top-flight position despite their dismal play this season.

Read Also: Peter Obi Will Lead Nigerians to Demand Change in 2027 – CUPP

Now, it appears that United will pay £62.5 million to sign Cunha as their first summer acquisition.

After making “significant” progress, the parties’ negotiations are now in their final phases.

His familiarity with Ruben Amorim’s favored 3-4-2-1 configuration is one of the main factors influencing United’s interest.

Amorim has never concealed his respect for Cunha, complimenting his versatility and goal-scoring ability.

Peter Obi Will Lead Nigerians to Demand Change in 2027 – CUPP

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Nigerians will choose the outcome of the 2027 election, according to the Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP).
According to reports, CUPP National Secretary Chief Peter Ameh observed that Peter Obi, the former Labour Party presidential candidate, received more votes in the 2023 election in spite of the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) purportedly faulty figures.
In a statement released Friday, Chief Ameh denounced the mindset of Nigerian politicians, which is motivated by selfish interests.
“In less than six months of campaigning, Peter Obi, representing the Labour Party, achieved remarkable success, even though the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) announced flawed results.

Obi received over 50% of the vote in seven states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), and over 25% in sixteen states, without the support of governors or the aid of electoral manipulation apparatus. His supremacy in important cities like the FCT, Rivers, and Lagos demonstrated the strength of a coalition of people who are all driven by the same goal of change, he said.

Read Also: N30m Bribe Attempt: Ighodalo Cries Foul, Heads to Supreme Court

The most recent election in 2023 demonstrated the ability of the people to bring about political change, the former National Chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) emphasized.

“This alliance of common Nigerians—youth, laborers, businesspeople, and professionals—showed that the people’s will can overthrow the established political elite.” The 2023 elections made clear the weaknesses of inept and heartless politicians who are incapable of governing for the common good and whose sole goal is to seize power.

“These politicians have used defection and manipulation to hold onto power, frequently protected by the so-called “federal might.” Under the guise of political strategy, governors and other elected officials routinely switch parties, undermining the confidence of their voters.

“Public trust in governance has been undermined by this lack of accountability and discipline, but the people are more committed than ever to ending this cycle of opportunism and poor performance,” he continued.

N30m Bribe Attempt: Ighodalo Cries Foul, Heads to Supreme Court

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Asue Ighodalo, the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) candidate for Edo State’s governorship election on September 21, 2024, has accused the All Progressives Congress (APC) of trying to bribe his witnesses before the tribunal with ₦30 million.
Ighodalo disclosed the information during Thursday’s PDP stakeholders’ meeting in Benin. He did, however, thank his witnesses for their tenacity and commitment to the cause, promising to “claim his mandate” by taking the case to the Supreme Court.
Despite the tribunal’s decision, which he felt attempted to sabotage justice, the PDP chieftain declared that he, his running mate Osarodion Ogie, and other party members in the state will continue the battle.
“We will fight this battle to the end,” he declared. In order to be here, several of our supporters traveled from their homes. Despite being offered N30m to persuade them, all of our witnesses have remained unwavering. I want to thank all of them for sticking by the celebration.

Read Also: Second Term Unnecessary, 5-Year Single Tenure Enough – Obi

“The tribunal’s decision was unfair. We will carry the case all the way to the Supreme Court after filing an appeal. God is just, therefore we have faith that He will step in. In spite of everything going on around us, we must continue to be resilient and determined.

Ighodalo pledged that they would build on the framework established by former Governor Lucky Igbinedion once they regained the mandate.

“We will continue where leaders like Lucky Igbinedion left off once we receive our mandate.” Everyone will be at ease after our eight years in power, with the exception of those who refuse to work. God has been teaching us to be humble and to have good morals. We would have made a grave error by selecting the wrong individuals if we had been sworn in after the election. When we take office, the party members’ devotion will be rewarded,” he declared.

Second Term Unnecessary, 5-Year Single Tenure Enough – Obi

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Peter Obi, a former Labour Party presidential candidate, has criticized Nigeria’s present political system, which upholds an elected governor’s or president’s eight-year term.
Nigeria’s constitution permits a second tenure opportunity, which Obi reportedly claimed was a contributing factor in the country’s governance issues.
When he spoke on Thursday about “Politics and Change in Nigeria” at the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies, he made this claim.

For governors and presidents, the former governor of Anambra State favored a single five-year term.

Read Also: Tinubu’s Achievements Attracting Opposition Politicians to APC—Alile

“A second eight-year tenure is not necessary. Because it’s part of our problem, I believe. We require folks to only attend for one term. For me, five years. I think you can do anything. Indeed, after five years you might not be able to pursue your goals. There are many who argue that you can exhibit the correct path after five years. He answered, “If you mean well.”
Nigeria and Africa have gifted youth, but leaders have not been able to fully utilize their potential, the national leader of the Labour Party emphasized.

Nigeria continues to be a nation with enormous potential. Natural resources in Nigeria and Africa have enormous potential. I am aware that human capital requires training, but we have young individuals who are vibrant, talented, pushing the ball in the correct direction, and all that.

The government, he added, “just organizes corporate leadership based on doing the right things, as I mentioned.”

Tinubu’s Achievements Attracting Opposition Politicians to APC – Alile

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The influx of opposition politicians into the All Progressives Congress (APC) is attributed to President Bola Tinubu’s good work, according to Mary Alile, the party’s national women leader.
Mrs. Alile was said to have praised former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa and Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for abandoning the opposition PDP-controlled party.
Opposition party members and chieftains from all over the country have been joining the APC, according to a statement released on Thursday by the party’s national women leader.
The widespread defection in Delta, according to her, signals a shift in the political climate of Delta State.

In Abia State, more than 500 members of the Labour Party (LP), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Young People’s Party (YPP), and All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) have defected to the APC in Bende Federal Constituency. Many other states have also had significant defections to the APC.

“The APC now has more members in the state legislature after four members of the Edo State House of Assembly who were previously with the PDP and LP defected to the party.

In a move that strengthened the party’s support at the grassroots level, former PDP governorship candidate Joseph Ameh Erico joined the APC in Olamaboro Local Government Area together with a large number of followers.

In Munya Local Government Area, Niger State, some 200 PDP members—including well-known individuals like Hon. Abdullahi Mohammed Ricco, a former member of the House of Representatives—have switched to the APC.

Prominent PDP leaders in Sokoto and Zamfara States, including as Alhaji Sahabi Bojo-Bodinga in Sokoto and Hajiya Madina Shehu in Zamfara, have led sizable numbers of supporters to the APC, bolstering the party’s presence in these areas.

Read Also: Uncertainty Surrounds Victor Osimhen’s Transfer to Manchester United

And hundreds of members of the Zenith Labour Party (ZLP) and PDP had switched to the APC in Ondo State ahead of the election, she said, showing a change in political loyalty.
Alile went on to praise President Tinubu for his forward-thinking leadership and steadfast dedication to national progress, both of which have been crucial in drawing new party members.

She praised the National Working Committee (NWC) of the party and the women’s organizations that are spread throughout the country for their grassroots mobilization efforts.

The APC National Chairman and the whole National Working Committee deserve special recognition for their calculated attempts to promote inclusivity and unity within the party.

“As the National Woman Leader, I acknowledge and honor the crucial role that women have played throughout this time of transformation. APC’s growing power has been largely attributed to their commitment to grassroots campaigning and mobilization. For our party to continue to develop and succeed, we must keep empowering and assisting women,” she continued.

Uncertainty Surrounds Victor Osimhen’s Transfer to Manchester United

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According to reports, Manchester United of the English Premier League has not included Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen on their list of summer transfer targets because of the league’s Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR), which place financial restrictions on players.
Implemented from the 2015–2016 season, the PSR attempts to limit clubs’ excessive expenditure by allowing them to lose no more than £105 million during a three-year financial cycle.
The impact of these rules was especially noticeable during the previous season when Everton was docked 10 points for exceeding expenditure caps; after an appeal, the penalty was lowered to six points.

In United’s case, Osimhen appears to be the best person to help with their continuous goal-scoring issues; nonetheless, Wolverhampton Wanderers forward Matheus Cunha is still the team’s top target.
Cunha has a £62.5 million release clause, which Manchester United seems eager to exercise in order to increase their offensive options.

According to United News, Osimhen might be a good addition to Cunha, but United would need to spend almost £51 million to acquire the striker, who is presently on loan at Galatasaray. His high salary demands might make a summer transfer impractical.

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In order to hire a player of Osimhen’s caliber, the team would have to manage their current payroll properly and perhaps cut it.

There are rumors that 26-year-old Osimhen has already agreed to sign a contract with Manchester United for this summer. The striker reportedly received a lucrative offer of €20 million a year from the Red Devils.

Serie A powerhouse Juventus and Manchester United have each made a sizable offer worth £17.1 million net annually, or roughly £330,000 per week after taxes, according to sources, including Turkish writer Ali Naci Küçük. Osimhen would earn almost £660,000 a week before taxes if this deal were to be confirmed, making him United’s highest-paid player.

United is unlikely to pursue Osimhen any further; therefore, this value and financial structure may soon be reexamined.

Transfer specialist David Ornstein said on NBC Sports about the team’s recruitment strategy, stressing that Matheus Cunha is their top target for the midfield position, even if they will need to negotiate personal terms, which are not assured.

Ornstein went on to say that Liam Delap of Ipswich Town is Manchester United’s top priority in terms of striker signings. Delap has a £30 million release clause linked to the club’s relegation.
To make his possible transfer even more competitive, keep in mind that Delap is also being courted by Chelsea and other Premier League teams. Prior to the start of the European Under-21 Championship, Delap is anticipated to make a choice about his future.

On loan from Napoli to Galatasaray, Osimhen has been having an incredible season, scoring 30 goals and dishing out seven assists in just 35 games across all competitions.