Top Nigerian Newspaper Headlines — Saturday, 28th February, 2026

A member of the United States Congress, Representative Riley Moore, has raised concerns over the security situation in Nigeria, alleging that Christians have disproportionately suffered from violent attacks over the past two decades. According to reports monitored by Ireporter Online, Moore stated that although insecurity affects Nigerians across religious divides, Christians are significantly more vulnerable. He claimed that Christians are five times more likely to be killed than adherents of other faiths and alleged that armed groups frequently target Christian communities, including places of worship and religious leaders. The congressman urged Washington to adopt firmer engagement strategies with Abuja, while commending US President Donald Trump for what he described as strong support for persecuted Christians globally. He further maintained that while international assistance is necessary, the administration of President Bola Tinubu must demonstrate stronger political will in addressing insecurity.

In the judiciary, the Supreme Court of Nigeria has affirmed the conviction and seven-year prison sentence handed to former Senator Albert Bassey over fraud-related offences. In a judgment delivered by Justice Stephen Jonah Adah, the apex court upheld the earlier decisions of the trial court and the Court of Appeal, while restoring an order directing Bassey to refund ₦204 million to Akwa Ibom State. The former lawmaker was prosecuted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission over allegations of receiving bribes, including vehicles valued at ₦254 million, during his tenure as Commissioner for Finance in Akwa Ibom State. Though the appellate court had upheld his conviction with modifications, the Supreme Court reinstated the restitution order, bringing the legal battle to a close.

Meanwhile, Justice Belgore of the Federal Capital Territory High Court has withdrawn from the fundamental human rights enforcement suit filed by former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai and returned the case file to the FCT Chief Judge for reassignment. The development followed the judge’s decision to proceed on leave. The suit challenges the actions of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, the Department of State Services, and the Attorney-General of the Federation. El-Rufai, who reportedly turned himself in to the EFCC earlier in February, remains in custody as his legal team seeks the enforcement of his rights. A new hearing date is expected once the matter is reassigned.

In a major political shift, Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Fintiri has officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party to the ruling All Progressives Congress. According to reports, the governor announced the decision during a statewide broadcast, explaining that the move was aimed at advancing development in Adamawa State. Several members of his cabinet and key party officials reportedly defected alongside him. The announcement followed the resignation of about fifteen lawmakers from the Adamawa State House of Assembly, including the Speaker and Deputy Speaker, who cited internal challenges within the PDP at the national level.

Similarly, the Oyo State High Court in Ibadan has upheld the outcome of the Peoples Democratic Party’s 2025 national convention and affirmed the leadership of the Dr. Taminu Turaki-led National Working Committee. Justice Ladiran Akintola dismissed applications seeking to halt proceedings and validated all claims brought before the court, effectively ending disputes surrounding the convention’s legitimacy.

Amid ongoing defections, Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed has declared that he will remain in the PDP despite meeting with President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa. The governor, who briefed the president on security challenges in Bauchi State, particularly banditry activities in Alkaleri Local Government Area, emphasized that party members are free to make political choices but reiterated his commitment to the opposition party.

In Osun State, twenty-five members of the State House of Assembly have defected from the PDP to the Accord Party. The Speaker, Hon. Adewale Egbedun, led the mass defection during plenary, aligning with Governor Ademola Adeleke, who previously joined the Accord Party ahead of the 2026 governorship election. Assembly sources indicated that the move had been under consideration for months before the final decision was reached.

In entertainment news, Nollywood actress Iyabo Ojo has dismissed allegations circulating online that she gave her goddaughter, Fola Tinubu, a herbal product commonly associated with enhancing intimacy. The actress described the claims as false and stated that Fola is an adult whose personal life she does not interfere with. She also clarified that she does not patronise such products, stressing that her relationship with her goddaughter has been centered on mentorship and support in business and legal matters.

Former actress Tonto Dikeh has also shared reflections on her financial journey, attributing her growth to faith and divine provision. In a social media post, she revealed that she once questioned how she would thrive financially without the support of a former associate known as ‘Otunba’ but stated that her experience after embracing her faith has been transformative. She disclosed that she now owns four houses and encouraged believers to trust God with their financial wellbeing.

In sports, Tanzanian Premier League side Singida Black Stars SC has suspended Super Eagles goalkeeper Amas Obasogie for three months over allegations of match-fixing. The club announced that the 26-year-old has been barred from all football-related activities pending investigation. His teammate, Khalid Aucho, was also suspended for misconduct and absence from training. The development comes amid Obasogie’s steady rise in professional football, following previous stints in Ethiopia and Nigeria.

That concludes today’s roundup of major Nigerian newspaper headlines. More updates are expected as events continue to unfold across the country.