Top Nigerian Newspaper Headlines You Need To Read This Tuesday, May 19, 2026

In Abuja, Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court granted former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai bail in the sum of ₦100 million with strict conditions, including a high-ranking federal civil servant as surety and the surrender of all international passports. The court also directed El-Rufai to report monthly to the headquarters of the Department of State Services pending the conclusion of his trial.

The All Progressives Congress has released an updated list of senatorial aspirants disqualified from participating in its primary elections ahead of the 2027 general elections. The party said the revised list includes those who were screened out, voluntarily withdrew, or failed to appear before the screening panel, while urging stakeholders to uphold transparency and credibility throughout the nomination process.

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Nyesom Wike has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the building collapse in Abuja that left five people dead. The minister confirmed the arrest of an engineer linked to the project and directed authorities to apprehend the developer, stressing that the administration will not compromise on the safety of residents.

The Academic Staff Union of Universities has accused the Federal Government of failing to implement key provisions of the 2025 agreement reached with university lecturers. Speaking in Keffi, ASUU officials warned that unresolved issues, including unpaid allowances, salary arrears, and pension deductions, could trigger another nationwide strike if urgent action is not taken.

Justice Peter Lifu has fixed May 26 for judgment in a suit challenging former President Goodluck Jonathan over his eligibility to contest the 2027 presidential election. The Attorney-General of the Federation aligned with Jonathan and asked the court to dismiss the case.

Afrobeat singer Made Kuti has revealed that he did not kneel while proposing to his wife, explaining that marriage should be a mutual decision rather than an act of pleading. The grandson of legendary musician Fela Kuti said he and his wife, Inedoye Onyenso, approached marriage as equal partners.

Bolaji Ogunmola has recounted how film producers once attempted to confine her to “side chick” roles because of her appearance. The actress said she refused to be boxed in and credited filmmaker Biodun Stephen with helping shape her growth in the Nigerian film industry.

In English football, Pep Guardiola is reportedly set to leave Manchester City F.C. after the club’s final Premier League game of the 2025/26 season, bringing an end to a trophy-laden decade that transformed the club into one of Europe’s most successful teams.

Meanwhile, Ousmane Dembélé has emerged as a major injury concern for Paris Saint-Germain F.C. ahead of the UEFA Champions League final against Arsenal F.C. after limping off during the club’s final Ligue 1 match of the season.