Top Nigerian Newspaper Headlines For Today, Thursday, March 12, 2026

Nigeria woke up to several major developments across the political, security, entertainment, and sports sectors on Thursday, March 12, 2026, as new decisions and reactions continue to shape national conversations. According to Ireporter Online, one of the most significant developments emerged from the House of Representatives, where lawmakers approved an amendment to the Electoral Act 2026 aimed at curbing the practice of dual party membership. The proposed amendment introduces stricter penalties for individuals found to be registered with more than one political party at the same time. Under the new provision, offenders risk a fine of ₦10 million or a prison term of up to two years. The amendment further adds new subsections to Section 77 of the Electoral Act, stipulating that any dual membership discovered will automatically be declared invalid.

Meanwhile, the faction of the Peoples Democratic Party aligned with Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has postponed its planned caucus, Board of Trustees, and National Executive Council meetings indefinitely. The announcement was made by the party’s National Secretary, Taofeek Arapaja, who explained that the decision followed advice from the court urging stakeholders to pursue an out-of-court resolution to the lingering crisis within the party. The move came shortly after the Court of Appeal sitting in Ibadan adjourned indefinitely a case relating to the party’s Ibadan elective convention while encouraging all parties involved to seek an amicable settlement.

In the security sector, the Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, revealed details of an emergency meeting held with Nigeria’s service chiefs in Abuja following fresh attacks on military bases in the North-East. Present at the meeting were the Chief of Defence Staff, Olufemi Oluyede, the Chief of Army Staff, Waidi Shaibu, the Chief of Air Staff, Sunday Aneke, and the Chief of Naval Staff, Idi Abass, alongside intelligence officials. Addressing journalists after the meeting, the minister maintained that terrorists have suffered heavier losses than government forces in ongoing military operations. He also cautioned against the spread of misinformation on social media, warning that false narratives could undermine security efforts and urging citizens to promptly report suspicious activities to authorities.

At the National Assembly, Senator Ali Ndume voiced strong criticism of the legislature, claiming that its constitutional oversight function has weakened significantly. Speaking during an interview with Dan’Uwa Rano TV, the Borno South lawmaker expressed concern that the parliament now appears to routinely approve executive proposals without adequate scrutiny. Ndume, who has recently been outspoken about certain policies of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, questioned the effectiveness of the legislature in ensuring accountability within government.

In another development, the Senate confirmed the nomination of Taiwo Oyedele as a minister in the administration of President Tinubu. The confirmation was announced by Senate President Godswill Akpabio after lawmakers approved the nominee through a voice vote following his screening during plenary. Oyedele is expected to assume the role of Minister of State for Finance, replacing Doris Uzoka-Anite. The screening process was initiated after Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele moved a motion allowing the nominee to enter the chamber and participate in the confirmation proceedings.

Amid the ongoing internal crisis within the opposition, another faction of the Peoples Democratic Party aligned with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, declared that it remains the legitimate structure capable of presenting candidates in the 2027 general elections. The position was made public by the chairman of its National Caretaker Working Committee, Abdulrahman Mohammed, following a meeting in Abuja. The group said its stance is supported by a recent judgment delivered by the Court of Appeal concerning the party’s national leadership, while calling on members and supporters to unite in preparing for the upcoming elections and a planned national convention.

In the entertainment industry, Nigerian singer Omah Lay opened up about a painful breakup that occurred shortly before the Grammy Awards ceremony. Speaking during the listening party for his upcoming album Clarity of Mind, the singer revealed that the brief relationship lasted only two months but had grown emotionally significant for him, as he had envisioned building a future with his partner. He disclosed that the breakup happened while Justin Bieber was performing at the Grammys, making it difficult for him to enjoy the moment. The emotional experience later inspired a track on the album titled Don’t Love Me, which explores themes of heartbreak and personal balance.

Meanwhile, Nollywood actress Nkechi Blessing Sunday sparked widespread debate after addressing societal pressure on women regarding body image. In a video shared on social media, the actress argued that persistent body-shaming from men has contributed to the growing number of women undergoing cosmetic procedures such as the Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL). She noted that many of the same people who previously criticised women’s natural bodies are now urging them to embrace their natural appearance, describing the situation as contradictory and unfair.

In the sports world, former Super Eagles midfielder John Obi Mikel stirred controversy after accusing Arsenal F.C. of “cheating” their way toward the English Premier League title. Arsenal currently lead the table ahead of Manchester City F.C., but Mikel argued that their heavy reliance on set-piece goals, particularly from corners, has become their primary strategy under manager Mikel Arteta. Speaking during a discussion on talkSPORT, the former Chelsea star claimed he would struggle to regard the team as deserving champions if they eventually secure the title.

Internationally, tensions in the Middle East intensified after Iran announced it would withdraw from the 2026 FIFA World Cup following the killing of its Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, during joint strikes by the United States and Israel. Iran’s Sports Minister, Ahmad Donyamali, confirmed that the national team would not travel to the United States for the tournament, citing the worsening geopolitical situation. The tournament is scheduled to be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico in June and July 2026.