News
Ransom Demanded for Abducted Priest in Imo State.

The abduction of Rev. Fr. John Ubaechu, Parish Priest of Holy Family Catholic Church, Izombe, Imo State, has prompted grave concern. Father Ubaechu was seized in Ejemekwuru on Sunday evening while en route to the annual retreat of priests of the Owerri Catholic Archdiocese.
Confirming the abduction, the Owerri Catholic Archdiocesan Chancellor, Rev. Fr. Patrick Mbarah, issued a statement expressing the Church’s distress. Unconfirmed reports indicate that the kidnappers are demanding a ransom, initially reported as high as N50 million, but purportedly reduced to N20 million.
Parishioners have expressed profound worry for Father Ubaechu’s safety and are appealing to state authorities and security agencies for intervention. The recovery of the priest’s vehicle by naval personnel at Izombe provides a sliver of hope. However, the situation remains critical, and prayers are offered for Father Ubaechu’s swift and safe return.
News
Lagos State Reaffirms Focus on Road Safety, Not Revenue, with Speed Enforcement.

Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Ministry of Transportation, Olawale Musa, has reiterated the state government’s commitment to road safety, emphasizing that the recently implemented speed limit enforcement and e-policing camera system is primarily designed to reduce accidents and fatalities, not to generate revenue.
Speaking on a local radio program, Mr. Musa clarified that the initiative aims to curb excessive speeding, a key contributor to road accidents. He stated that compliance with speed limits is crucial for saving lives and preventing injuries, and that the enforcement measures, though often met with resistance, are necessary for public safety.
Further, Mr. Musa addressed concerns regarding potential errors and assured the public that a transparent process exists for contesting perceived wrongful fines. He also highlighted the government’s commitment to equitable enforcement, noting that even government vehicles have been subject to fines for violations. He urged motorists to adhere to posted speed limits, especially along the Alapere axis and the Third Mainland Bridge, and to utilize designated locations for passenger pick-up and drop-off. The government is also addressing issues of missing or vandalized road signs through alternative measures like direct road markings.
Entertainment
Val Kilmer, Acclaimed Actor, Passes Away at 65.

Hollywood mourns the loss of Val Kilmer, the acclaimed actor known for his diverse and memorable roles, who passed away in Los Angeles on Tuesday at the age of 65. His daughter, Mercedes Kilmer, confirmed the news.
Kilmer, a prominent figure in 1990s cinema, achieved widespread recognition for his performances in iconic films such as “Top Gun,” “The Doors,” where he embodied Jim Morrison, and “Tombstone,” where he portrayed Doc Holliday. He also donned the cowl as Batman in “Batman Forever.” His extensive filmography includes significant roles in “Heat,” “The Saint,” “Willow,” and the recent “Top Gun: Maverick.”
Beyond his on-screen achievements, Kilmer’s career was marked by periods of controversy and fluctuating box office success. He was reportedly diagnosed with throat cancer in 2014, though he later recovered.
Val Kilmer’s talent and dedication to his craft will undoubtedly be remembered by audiences for years to come.
Foreign
Case Dismissed: Federal Charges Against Mayor Adams Dropped.

On Wednesday, District Court Judge Dale Ho dismissed, with prejudice, the federal criminal case against New York City Mayor Eric Adams. This action effectively terminates the possibility of the Department of Justice (DOJ) resurrecting the five-count indictment against the Democrat in the US District Court in Manhattan.
The dismissal follows a controversial request by the Trump administration, nearly two months prior, to drop the corruption charges. The DOJ argued that prosecution would impede Mayor Adams’ ability to govern New York City and collaborate with the administration’s immigration enforcement policies.
The request prompted significant internal dissent, culminating in the resignation of seven federal prosecutors, including the acting Manhattan US attorney. Their departure underscores the contentious nature of the decision to seek dismissal and the ethical questions it raised within the Department. The “with prejudice” ruling solidifies the finality of this complex and closely watched legal battle.
-
Entertainment1 day ago
Val Kilmer, Acclaimed Actor, Passes Away at 65.
-
News1 day ago
NAFDAC Leverages Technology in Fight Against Counterfeit Products.
-
Foreign1 day ago
Case Dismissed: Federal Charges Against Mayor Adams Dropped.
-
Foreign1 day ago
US Sanctions Russian Network Aiding Houthi Procurement.
-
News1 day ago
Nasarawa Police Strengthen Community Relations with National Police Day Initiatives.
-
Entertainment1 day ago
Actor Uzor Arukwe Receives High Praise from Segun Arinze.
-
Entertainment9 hours ago
Rubi Rose Articulates Her Relationship Criteria.
-
News1 day ago
Nigerian Navy Dismantles Illegal Refining Operation in Bayelsa State.