Top Nigerian Newspaper Headlines You Need To Read This Wednesday, May 20, 2026

In a related development, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission has arrested former Minister of Power Saleh Mamman following his conviction over financial misconduct. EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede confirmed that the former minister was apprehended in Kaduna during an early morning operation alongside two individuals suspected of shielding him from authorities. Investigators are also examining the property where the arrest took place.

The Defence Headquarters has dismissed reports suggesting that a terrorist base exists in the South-West region. Defence spokesperson Michael Onoja described the recent attack on schools in Oyo State as an isolated incident and assured Nigerians that intelligence reports do not support claims of any organized terrorist enclave in the region. He urged citizens to continue cooperating with security agencies by providing credible information.

Within the Peoples Democratic Party, party stalwart Umar Sani explained that the decision to adopt former President Goodluck Jonathan as the party’s sole presidential candidate for the 2027 election was influenced by the enduring goodwill many Nigerians still associate with his administration. According to Sani, Jonathan remains widely admired by ordinary citizens who recall his time in office with nostalgia.

Former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi has also clarified his political ambitions, stating that he is not interested in serving as vice president under the African Democratic Congress. Speaking during a television interview, Amaechi emphasized that he purchased the party’s presidential nomination form to contest for the top office and insisted that if consensus fails, all aspirants should proceed to a primary election.

In Lagos, actor-turned-lawmaker Desmond Elliot admitted his involvement in the controversial impeachment of Mudashiru Obasa. Elliot explained that he believed the directive to remove Obasa originated from President Tinubu and noted that several lawmakers had endorsed the move before he added his signature.

Nigerian rapper Blaqbonez has expressed deep frustration with the country’s political system, stating during a podcast interview that he has never voted in any election. The artiste said years of unfulfilled expectations have left him disillusioned and convinced that Nigeria’s leadership challenges are deeply rooted in the attitudes of its citizens.

The public dispute between media personality Frank Edoho and his former wife, Sandra Onyenucheya, intensified as Sandra released screenshots and detailed allegations of repeated infidelity. She accused Edoho of maintaining relationships with multiple women and claimed he once threatened her after she confronted him over his conduct.

In sports, Arsenal F.C. have been crowned champions of the 2025/26 Premier League, ending a 22-year title drought. Mikel Arteta guided the North London club to glory after Manchester City F.C. dropped points against Bournemouth, giving Arsenal an insurmountable lead at the top of the table.

Meanwhile, Cristiano Ronaldo has been named in Portugal’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, setting him on course to become the first male player to feature in six editions of the tournament. Portugal coach Roberto Martinez included the 41-year-old superstar in a historic squad as Ronaldo continues to extend his remarkable international career.