Top Nigerian Newspaper Headlines For Today, Tuesday, May 5, 2026

Good morning Nigeria. Here is a comprehensive roundup of major newspaper headlines across the country for Tuesday, May 5, 2026.

According to Ireporter Online, former presidential candidate Peter Obi has explained that his decision to leave the African Democratic Congress for the Nigeria Democratic Congress was driven by the current state of the nation and the urgent need for reform. He disclosed that persistent internal crises and prolonged legal disputes influenced his exit, noting that similar issues informed his earlier departure from the Labour Party. Obi also urged the Federal Government under Bola Ahmed Tinubu to refrain from actions that could deepen instability within political parties. He maintained that his move, alongside Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, represents a continuation of their long-standing political ideals.

In another development, the Board of Trustees of the Peoples Democratic Party, led by Adolphus Wabara, has constituted a 13-member interim National Working Committee headed by Tanimu Turaki. The decision follows a Supreme Court ruling that invalidated the party’s 2025 national convention, thereby creating a leadership gap. The faction further dismissed the legitimacy of another leadership group within the party, intensifying internal disputes.

Meanwhile, Senator Muhammad Danjuma Goje has rejected a consensus arrangement adopted by the All Progressives Congress in Gombe State. The arrangement, which endorsed a preferred candidate for his senatorial seat, was criticized by Goje as exclusionary, arguing that it failed to involve all recognized aspirants within the party.

On the legal front, political figure Umar Ardo has expressed confidence that the registration of the Nigeria Democratic Congress will be overturned in court. He alleged that due process was not followed by the Independent National Electoral Commission in approving the party, insisting that the matter is already before the judiciary.

In a related political development, a faction of the Peoples Democratic Party loyal to Seyi Makinde has unveiled its timetable for the 2027 general elections. The group announced that presidential aspirants will pay ₦100 million for nomination forms, with primary elections scheduled for late May 2026 and a national convention to ratify candidates shortly after.

Elsewhere, former Cross River State governor Ben Ayade has voiced dissatisfaction over what he described as a directive from President Tinubu asking him to withdraw from the 2027 senatorial race. Ayade lamented that despite his contributions to the ruling party’s electoral success in 2023, he has not been adequately recognized or appointed to any federal role.

In the entertainment scene, Nollywood actress Lizzy Anjorin has agreed to participate in a proposed celebrity boxing match against fellow actress Iyabo Ojo for a ₦10 million prize. However, she introduced new conditions, suggesting that the promoter should first arrange a bout involving her husband before she steps into the ring.

Judicial proceedings have also intensified over the death of late singer Mohbad. A Federal High Court in Abuja has fixed May 28 for the hearing of a suit seeking to compel the police to reopen investigations into the circumstances surrounding his death. The case was filed by a civil society group requesting a thorough and impartial probe.

In sports, Super Eagles striker Taiwo Awoniyi delivered an outstanding performance, scoring twice as Nottingham Forest defeated Chelsea 3-1 in an English Premier League encounter at Stamford Bridge. His brace ensured a commanding victory for the visiting side.

On the European football scene, FC Porto have clinched the Portuguese league title ahead of SL Benfica, despite Benfica remaining unbeaten this season under Jose Mourinho. The title race highlights a rare scenario where a team could complete a season undefeated yet fail to secure the championship.