Nigeria News (Standard)
Afrobeats Star Peruzzi Reduces Family Ambition, Says Two Children Now Enough Amid Rising Costs
Singer cites changed circumstances as observers link shift to Nigeria’s economic hardship under Tinubu administration
Singer cites changed circumstances as observers link shift to Nigeria’s economic hardship under Tinubu administration
Popular Afrobeats musician Peruzzi has publicly announced a change in his family plans, declaring that he now considers two children sufficient, in contrast to his earlier wish for twelve. The singer made this known on Sunday via his verified X (formerly Twitter) account, referencing a post he made six years ago while highlighting how current realities have altered his perspective.
Peruzzi, whose real name is Tobechukwu Victor Okoh, stated in Pidgin English, “Omo, 2 children dey enough. Things don change,” signalling a significant departure from his 2020 desire for a large family. His comments quickly drew reactions from fans and observers online, many of whom connected his decision to Nigeria’s worsening economic situation that has seen even celebrities adjust their priorities.
Since President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (APC) took office in May 2023, sweeping economic reforms have led to sharp increases in the cost of living and a decline in the purchasing power of most Nigerians. The National Bureau of Statistics reported inflation at over 33 percent as at April 2026. As a result, many households—including those of public figures—are re-evaluating major life decisions.
Social media users responding to Peruzzi’s post joked that the country’s economic conditions had prompted his U-turn. Some referenced his known passion for football as possible inspiration for initially desiring twelve children—the number needed for a football squad—but agreed that present-day realities require more conservative choices. Peruzzi did not elaborate further on the reasons behind his decision apart from stating that ‘things have changed.’
The entertainment industry itself has not been spared by the economic downturn. Reports indicate a slowdown in hit song releases and growing concerns about funding within Nigeria’s music sector. Other celebrities have also become vocal about national challenges: Nollywood actors recently condemned rising insecurity following kidnappings in Oyo State, while rapper Falz joined protests on June 12 Democracy Day alongside human rights lawyer Femi Falana SAN to highlight socioeconomic issues.
As Nigerians continue to grapple with insecurity and rising costs of basic goods and services, public figures like Peruzzi are increasingly reflecting these hardships in personal decisions shared with their followers online.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Delta Police Arrest Two Suspected Cable Vandals in Ndokwa West
One suspect hospitalised after attempted escape as police recover stolen electric cables along Ibabu–Ugiliamai Road
One suspect hospitalised after attempted escape as police recover stolen electric cables along Ibabu–Ugiliamai Road
Operatives of the Delta State Police Command have arrested two individuals suspected of vandalising electric cables in Ndokwa West Local Government Area on Tuesday, 25 June. The suspects were apprehended around 10:30pm along the Ibabu–Ugiliamai Road following a joint operation involving officers from Kwale Police Station and members of the local vigilante group.
According to a statement issued by Delta State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, the security team acted swiftly on credible intelligence that some persons were removing and stealing electric cables in the area. Upon sighting law enforcement, the suspects attempted to flee the scene, resulting in one of them sustaining injuries during the pursuit. The injured suspect is currently receiving medical attention, while the other is in police custody.
Cable vandalism has become a significant concern in Delta State and across Nigeria, often leading to prolonged power outages and financial losses for communities. The state government has repeatedly called for increased vigilance by residents and closer collaboration with security agencies to combat such crimes.
SP Edafe stated that investigations are ongoing to determine if other individuals are involved in the syndicate. “We urge members of the public to continue providing timely information that can help us protect public infrastructure,” Edafe said in Thursday’s press release.
The police command assured residents that efforts will be intensified to prevent further incidents of cable theft in Ndokwa West and neighbouring communities. Authorities also reminded residents that anyone found engaging in vandalism or aiding such activities would face prosecution according to Nigerian law.
Source: https://guardian.ng/news/nigeria/metro/delta-police-arrest-two-suspected-cable-vandals/
Nigeria News (Standard)
Trump Claims US Military Strikes in Borno Prevented Mass Killing of Christians by ISWAP
Former US president says American intervention curbed attacks; Nigerian government yet to issue official response
Former US president says American intervention curbed attacks; Nigerian government yet to issue official response
Former United States President Donald Trump has stated that military strikes authorised by his administration in Borno State helped prevent the mass killing of Christians by militants linked to Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP). Trump made this assertion on Friday during an event held in Washington, where he defended his decision to target terrorist groups operating in Nigeria’s North-East region.
According to Trump, the US military operations significantly reduced attacks on Christian communities in Borno and neighbouring states, which had been facing repeated assaults from ISWAP fighters. He said, “As you know, we recently struck Nigeria and largely ended the slaughter of great Christian populations. They have a great Christian population. They were being butchered—thousands and thousands of people were being killed, children, women, old people, just being slaughtered, hacked to death.”
Trump added that the American intervention sent a strong warning to the militants responsible for these attacks. He claimed the strikes discouraged further violence against religious minorities in the region. The former president did not provide specific details regarding the timing or scale of the US operations referenced.
The Nigerian government and security agencies are yet to release any official statement confirming the reported strikes or commenting on Trump’s claims as at press time. In previous years, Borno State and other parts of North-East Nigeria have witnessed repeated attacks targeting both Muslim and Christian communities by various armed groups, including ISWAP and Boko Haram.
Security analysts say international military cooperation is often conducted discreetly and that foreign involvement in counter-insurgency operations can carry both diplomatic and security implications for Nigeria. The opposition could not be immediately reached for comment regarding Trump’s statements.
Nigeria News (Standard)
Former Super Eagles Coach Adegboye Onigbinde Laid to Rest in Modakeke, Osun State
Onigbinde, who led Nigeria to the 2002 FIFA World Cup, remembered for his legacy in Nigerian football
Onigbinde, who led Nigeria to the 2002 FIFA World Cup, remembered for his legacy in Nigerian football
Adegboye Onigbinde, the former head coach of the Super Eagles, was buried on Saturday in Modakeke, Osun State. The burial ceremony drew family members, friends, and football stakeholders who came together to pay their last respects to the veteran tactician.
Onigbinde’s funeral was held at his hometown of Modakeke, marking the end of an era for one of Nigeria’s most respected football coaches. Attendees described him as a disciplinarian and a mentor whose contribution to Nigerian football development spanned decades. Many local residents and members of the football community gathered to honour his memory.
Onigbinde rose to national prominence when he managed the Super Eagles at the 2002 FIFA World Cup. He is credited with nurturing young talent and promoting professionalism in Nigerian football. His death is considered a significant loss by many in the sports fraternity, particularly those from Osun State and across the South-West geopolitical zone.
Though details of official statements were not available at press time, tributes have continued to pour in from fans and former players who worked with Onigbinde during his long career. They praised his dedication and commitment to raising the profile of Nigerian football on the world stage.
As Nigerians reflect on Onigbinde’s enduring legacy, sports analysts note that his impact will continue through coaches and players he mentored over the years. The Nigerian Football Federation is expected to organise further commemorative events in honour of his service.
