Breaking News: Newspaper Headlines for Monday, 5th May, 2025 – Roundup of Today's Top Stories in Nigeria

Morning, Nigeria! Here's a roundup of today's top Nigerian newspaper headlines, May 5th, 2025

1. Tinubu Takes Steps to Settle ₦4tn Power Sector Debt

After a crucial meeting with power-generating companies' (GenCos) leadership on April 29, 2025, President Bola Tinubu aims to clear ₦4 trillion debt threatening the power sector's collapse[1][3][5]. Proposed solutions include direct cash payments, promissory notes, and urgent debt intervention, with partial cash payments already in motion[2][4].

2. Obi Concerned About Democracy's Direction in Nigeria

2023 Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has expressed concern about recent actions affecting democracy, economy, and business environment in Nigeria[5]. He specifically criticized the arrest of social media critic, Martin Vincent Otse (a.k.a. VeryDarkMan)[4], calling for justice without theatrics.

3. Alkali Back in Jalingo After Months of Leave

Deputy Governor of Taraba State, Aminu Alkali, has returned to Jalingo following a four-month medical absence[5]. The low-key arrival raised questions about the nature of his illness and the lack of prior notice to the press[1].

4. Okonkwo Slams PDP for Indiscipline in 2015 Election

Nollywood actor and politician Kenneth Okonkwo criticized the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for its downward trend since 2015, attributing it to the party's failure to punish its members who worked against then-President Goodluck Jonathan[5].

5. INEC Denies Announcing CVR Resumption Date

Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) clarified that it has not announced a date for resuming Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) nor transfer of lost Permanent Voters' Cards for the 2027 elections[5]. Official dates will be communicated in due course.

6. NDLEA Foils Multiple Drug Smuggling Plots Nationwide

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) uncovered ₦3.42 billion worth of illicit drugs across Lagos and Port Harcourt, including 3.5 million pills of opioids and 163,000 bottles of codeine syrup[3][4].

7. VeryDarkMan Arrested for Cyberstalking

Social media critic Martins Vincent Otse (a.k.a. VeryDarkMan) was arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on allegations of cyberstalking[4]. Further details regarding the nature of the complaints are still pending.

8. Bayern Munich Crowned 2024-25 Bundesliga Champions

Harry Kane finally clinched his first major title as Bayern Munich secured the 2024-25 German Bundesliga championship[2]. Despite being suspended, Kane watched the title celebration as Bayer Leverkusen failed to win against Freiburg.

9. Brentford Hand Manchester United 4-3 Thrashing

In an exciting Premier League encounter, Brentford outperformed Manchester United with a 4-3 victory, highlighting United's ongoing defensive fragility[2]. Amad Diallo's late goal proved too little as Brentford secured a crucial victory.

10. Bukayo Saka Impressed by Lamine Yamal's Exceptional Performance

Arsenal's Bukayo Saka has praised Barcelona's 17-year-old talent, Lamine Yamal, for his remarkable feats, calling him "not normal"[2]. Despite his young age, Yamal has made 100 appearances for FC Barcelona.

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President Tinubu seeks to resolve a ₦4 trillion debt crippling the power sector, as discussed during a meeting with power company leaders.
Peter Obi, former 2023 presidential candidate, has expressed worry over the state of democracy, economy, and business in Nigeria, specifically questioning the arrest of social critic, VeryDarkMan.
Deputy Governor Aminu Alkali has returned to Taraba State following a four-month medical break, fuelling discussions about his health and the lack of transparency regarding his absence.
Nollywood actor and politician Kenneth Okonkwo accused the PDP of declining since 2015, blaming the party's members who worked against Goodluck Jonathan for its downfall.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) denies announcing a date for resuming voter registration or transfer of Permanent Voters' Cards for the 2027 elections.
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) confiscated ₦3.42 billion worth of illicit drugs nationwide, including millions of opioid pills and thousands of codeine syrup bottles.
Social media critic VeryDarkMan was apprehended by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on charges of cyberstalking. Details about the nature of the complaints remain undisclosed.
Bayern Munich clinched the 2024-25 German Bundesliga championship, giving star player Harry Kane his first significant trophy despite being suspended.
Brentford beat Manchester United 4-3 in a thrilling Premier League match, exposing United's persistent defensive weaknesses.
Arsenal's Bukayo Saka praised 17-year-old FC Barcelona prospect Lamine Yamal, calling him "extraordinary" for his impressive performances.

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