Top Nigerian Newspaper Headlines For Today – Saturday, May 9, 2026

Reports indicate that the Progressive Governors Forum (PGF), the umbrella body of APC governors, has become sharply divided, with rival factions emerging over leadership and strategic direction. While Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma maintains that he remains chairman of the forum, another group is said to be aligning with Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun and Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq. Sources familiar with the situation said the dispute stems from internal disagreements over control of the forum and positioning ahead of the next general elections.

In a related development, allegations have surfaced that as many as 20 APC governors have withdrawn their support for Uzodinma and are pushing for his replacement. The governors were said to have cited concerns over his leadership style and financial accountability. Though no official statement has been issued, the unfolding crisis is expected to reshape political alliances within the ruling party.

Meanwhile, a faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) led by Tanimu Turaki met with former President Goodluck Jonathan in Abuja amid growing speculation over his possible return to the presidential race in 2027. The meeting came shortly after Jonathan disclosed that he was consulting widely before deciding whether to contest, describing the presidency as a serious responsibility that requires careful consideration.

The Federal High Court in Abuja also recorded a new development in the leadership dispute within the African Democratic Congress (ADC). The case challenging the leadership of former Senate President David Mark was adjourned indefinitely after the plaintiff requested that the matter be reassigned to another judge. The move was opposed by defence lawyers, who accused the plaintiff of attempting to manipulate the judicial process.

Members and aspirants of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) issued a strong warning to former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi, stating that any future administration under his leadership would be held strictly accountable. Speaking during a press briefing in Abuja, NDC House of Representatives aspirant Nnamdi Iroegbu said Nigerians would not hesitate to remove any president who fails to deliver on campaign promises.

The APC has also announced its screening timetable for governorship and National Assembly aspirants ahead of the 2027 elections. According to party officials, the exercise will take place in Abuja, with separate venues designated for Senate, House of Representatives, and governorship hopefuls.

On the security front, suspected Boko Haram insurgents launched a deadly attack on a police camp in Papiri, Niger State, killing two mobile police officers and injuring another. Security sources disclosed that the assailants struck before dawn, prompting a fierce exchange of gunfire in which several terrorists were reportedly neutralized.

In another development, Musa Muhammad Kamarawa, a former aide to ex-Zamfara State Governor Bello Matawalle, alleged that missing activist Abubakar Idris, popularly known as Dadiyata, was killed in his presence. The claim, which has circulated widely on social media, has renewed public calls for authorities to intensify efforts to uncover the truth behind Dadiyata’s disappearance in 2019.

In sports, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has expressed doubts over the fitness of defenders Jurrien Timber and Mikel Merino ahead of the closing stages of the season. Despite the injury concerns, Arteta said his side remains focused and prepared for the upcoming UEFA Champions League Final against Paris Saint-Germain F.C..

In entertainment, Nollywood stars Lateef Adedimeji and Adebimpe Oyebade have dismissed viral AI-generated images falsely presented as photos of their newborn triplets. The couple thanked fans for their love and support but clarified that authentic pictures of the babies will be shared at a later date.