WE HAVE TURNED TO SPIRITUAL MEANS. WE’VE STARTED FROM KOGI AND KWARA - ADEGBENRO OGUNLANA

According to Punch, as insecurity escalates across Nigeria, various forest-based security groups have renewed their call for federal recognition, insisting they can combine traditional spiritual methods with local expertise to combat terrorism. Among them is the Agbekoya Farmers’ Society, whose Secretary-General, Adegbenro Ogunlana, revealed that spiritual interventions have already been deployed in parts of the country, following directives from the Ifa oracle.

He said, "We have turned to spiritual means. We’ve started from Kogi and Kwara."

According to Ogunlana, sacrifices were carried out across Yoruba-speaking regions, including Kogi and Kwara states, to ward off attacks. He claimed some community members aiding terrorists had been apprehended, stressing that the spiritual approach aims to restore peace and combat threats from within.

He lamented the absence of centralized leadership in Yorubaland and expressed concern that state institutions often discourage self-defense, even as terror groups operate using spiritual tools.

Ogunlana emphasized that the intervention became necessary as violent attacks continued to plague Yoruba communities, especially those with significant natural resources.

In response, the Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Gani Adams, acknowledged the worsening security situation and noted that discussions were ongoing with senior Yoruba leaders. He pointed to intelligence reports indicating that terrorists have infiltrated strategic areas, particularly mineral-rich communities. Adams warned that the infiltration of Ibadan and other cities suggests a deepening crisis, which the political class is largely ignoring.

Meanwhile, the Commander of Patrol and Guards for the Nigeria Forest Security Service (NFSS) in North-Central, Alhaji Muhammad Ahmed, urged President Bola Tinubu to sign a pending bill that would formalize their operations. He disclosed that the NFSS, formerly known as the Nigerian Hunters and Forest Security Service, already has Senate and House approval and is only awaiting presidential assent.

Ahmed emphasized that real hunters, distinct from administrative personnel, possess spiritual abilities vital to confronting the nation’s security challenges. He claimed these operatives understand the terrain of the forests where terrorists hide and have encountered them on several occasions.
He expressed strong confidence that once the NFSS is legalized, spiritual forces alongside traditional bushcraft will be strategically deployed to neutralize criminal threats. Ahmed believes this dual approach will drastically reduce violence and restore national security.

Gen Musa Waarns: Stop Using Social Media to Promote IPOB—It’s Threatening Nigeria

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has issued a strong warning to residents of the South East against supporting or promoting the activities of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), especially through social media platforms.

Speaking during a community engagement visit in Omor, Anambra East LGA, Anambra State, General Musa—represented by Group Captain Ibrahim Bukar, Deputy Director of Defence Media Operations—highlighted the dangers of spreading unverified and misleading information online. He noted that such actions not only endanger the region but also threaten Nigeria’s unity and national peace.

As part of a people-focused outreach within the Operation Udoka Area of Responsibility, the Defence Chief met with the Obi Eze Ana-Uku, Eze Igulube of Omor, emphasizing the military’s commitment to restoring lasting peace and security in the South East.

General Musa made it clear that IPOB’s activities are harmful to both the region and the country at large, and should be firmly rejected. He condemned the growing trend of spreading false narratives pushed by outlawed groups, urging citizens to be vigilant and responsible.

“People need to have trust in their military,” he said. “The military belongs to the people. We rely on you to give us credible information—when you see something, say something. Together, we can overcome insecurity and bring peace back to our communities.”

He assured the people that the military remains neutral in all conflicts and is solely focused on protecting law-abiding citizens.

“Our mission is not to take sides,” he added. “We are only after criminal elements. Our job is to ensure peace and safeguard the lives and properties of innocent Nigerians.”

General Musa also reaffirmed the Armed Forces’ dedication to fulfilling their constitutional duty to protect the nation, adding that peace and security are vital foundations for national development and economic growth.

In his response, the traditional ruler of Omor, Eze Igulube, praised the military’s consistent efforts in maintaining peace in the area. He expressed gratitude for the improved security situation, saying the presence of the Armed Forces has brought relief to the community.

“Our people are farmers, peace-loving and hospitable,” the monarch said. “We deeply appreciate the courage and dedication of your personnel. We are ready to provide accurate intelligence to help your operations and keep our land safe.”

He pledged the full support of the community in the ongoing efforts to restore peace and security across the South East.

China has imposed sanctions on some U.S. congress members, government officials as well as heads of non-governmental organisations for "egregious behaviour on Hong Kong-related issues", its foreign ministry said on Monday.

The sanctions come in response to the U.S. sanctioning six Chinese and Hong Kong officials last month, which Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said China "strongly condemns".

My brother was bitter. I don’t know how he found out that I was dating his friend, but he came into my room shouting at the top of his voice, warning me to stay away from his friend. My first instinct was to deny the truth, but I told myself it wasn’t worth it. While he stood over my bed ranting about all the reasons he didn’t want me to date his friend, there was only one question I was waiting to ask: “He’s your friend and you like him, so why can’t I like him too?”

He didn’t wait for the question. He stormed out immediately after he finished talking. I called Jerry: “Did you tell your friend we are dating? I told you to wait, so why tell him now?” He answered with a shaky voice, “Me? I haven’t said anything to him. How did you know he knows?”

I told him everything that had happened and asked him not to engage him.

To be honest, I wasn’t fully into the relationship. I was only trying to see if things would work out. I knew my brother wouldn’t allow it, so I was going to keep it a secret until I was sure it would work. My brother told my mom about it. My mom told him, “Your sister isn’t a child, so who are you to determine who she should love?” My dad laughed at him, so he was left alone in the battle.

He stopped talking to me and stopped talking to Jerry. Jerry called to smoke the peace pipe, but my brother didn’t pick up the call. He told other friends that Jerry had broken the bro code for dating his younger sister.

While going through that phase, I was also dealing with my personal doubts because I wasn’t sure if Jerry loved me. He said it. He tried to show it, but to be honest with you, the fact that he was my brother’s friend also filled me with doubt. Boys are capable of everything. What if he was dating me to prove a point to my brother? So I was very careful.

If it messed up, I knew my brother would sing the “I told you so” song while I lay with my heartbreak. I didn’t want him to be right, so I told Jerry I wasn’t going to be intimate with him. When he bought me a gift, I told him I couldn’t take it because I didn’t want him to say somewhere that I took him for a fool. I took his gift and gave nothing back. I gave him rules. I think at some point, I just wanted to piss him off so he would leave me alone.

He didn’t go away, no matter how hard I tried. One day, I saw him and my brother together; they were laughing and making fun of each other as if nothing had ever happened. I was shocked. I asked Jerry what had changed, and he only said, “We are guys. We know how to resolve our differences.” I asked my brother, and he also didn’t say much apart from, “Aren’t you happy we are happy once again?”

Weeks later, Jerry took photos of me with his phone and gave me the phone to go through them. When he left me alone, I went straight to his WhatsApp and checked the messages between him and my brother. The conversation was very heated. My brother was throwing warnings from the initial stages, while Jerry stayed defensive.

I thought, “So this guy went through all that and he didn’t leave me alone?” Then I got to the later part of the conversation where Jerry said, “I’m your friend, so I can’t be an enemy to your sister. I will treat her just the way you treat her. She will never have a reason to complain to you, and you’ll never have a reason to doubt my intentions toward her. I know you love her, but I love her too. Relax and see what will come out of it.”

That message was sent at dawn. It took my brother three days to respond, and his response was, “I just dey watch you.”

I closed his phone and let myself fall onto his bed. When he entered, I asked for a hug. When he asked why, I said, “You took very beautiful photos of me. Every one of them is nice.” We hugged. We had our first kiss. Things moved very fast from that point because I believed him, just like my brother did.

We dated for two years. And then marriage. And then babies. And then he travelled. And then he came for us. To date, he doesn’t know I read those messages—and those messages were the turning point of our relationship.

Ashmusy Asks VeryDarkMan for Help After Losing 33 Million Naira to a Scam 🙌🏾

Popular influencer Ashmusy recently reached out to activist VeryDarkMan for help after reportedly losing 33 million naira to a scammer. The news has sparked a lot of reactions online, with many curious about VeryDarkMan’s response.

According to posts on X, Ashmusy privately messaged VeryDarkMan, asking him to assist her in recovering the money. This comes after a past disagreement where Ashmusy allegedly called him names during a previous encounter. Despite their history, VeryDarkMan reacted with a mix of surprise and humor, pointing out the irony of her asking for his help now. He later agreed to assist her, which has left fans talking.

This isn’t the first time these two have made headlines. Last year, VeryDarkMan called out Ashmusy for not delivering on a 1 million naira advertising deal, which she refunded after his public outcry. Now, with this new 33 million naira scam, their story continues to grab attention.

What do you think about Ashmusy’s plea and VeryDarkMan’s reaction?

#Bloom

Obi Cubana is facing major backlash online after publicly dismissing his adopted son, Chidi, who claimed on TikTok to be his next of kin. In response, Cubana posted a photo of his biological son, Alex, stating he alone holds that title. The move has sparked heated debate, with many Nigerians criticising the businessman for handling a sensitive family issue so publicly and accusing him of humiliating Chidi. #ObiCubana

Read More: https://tinyurl.com/5935rfxj

Step-by-Step: The Catholic Church after the death of a Pope

1. Confirmation of Death

The Camerlengo (Chamberlain of the Holy Roman Church) officially confirms the pope’s death.
Traditionally, he gently calls the pope’s baptismal name three times. If there's no response, he declares the pope dead.

2. Destruction of the Fisherman’s Ring

The Fisherman’s Ring, a signet used to seal official documents, is broken by the Camerlengo in the presence of cardinals.
This prevents its misuse and symbolizes the end of the pope’s authority.

3. Official Announcement

The Vatican makes an official public announcement.
Bells may toll and mourning customs begin, including the flying of flags at half-staff in some places.

4. Nine Days of Mourning –

A period of official mourning lasts nine days, during which Masses are offered for the repose of the pope’s soul.
The body is prepared and displayed in St. Peter’s Basilica for public veneration.

5. Burial

The pope is traditionally buried in the crypt beneath St. Peter’s Basilica (though he may request another resting place).
The body is usually placed in three coffins: wood, lead, and another wooden coffin, each placed inside the other.

6. Sede Vacante (Vacant See)

During this time, all governance of the Church is paused, except for routine matters handled by the Camerlengo.
No new appointments or major decisions can be made until a new pope is elected.

7. Preparation for the Conclave

The College of Cardinals gathers in Rome.
After at least 15 days but no more than 20 days following the pope’s death, the conclave begins to elect a new pope.
Only cardinals under 80 years old are eligible to vote.

8. The Conclave

Held in the Sistine Chapel under strict secrecy.
Voting continues until a candidate receives two-thirds majority.
After a successful vote, the elected cardinal is asked: “Do you accept your canonical election as Supreme Pontiff?”
If he says yes, he chooses a papal name.

9. The New Pope is Announced

The cardinal proto-deacon steps onto the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica and declares:
“Habemus Papam!” (We have a Pope!)
The new pope then appears and gives his first Urbi et Orbi blessing.

#BREAKING!!!! Four(4) PDP Governors are considering to defect to the APC to back President Bola Tinubu's bid for a second term - - - - According to ThisDay.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

They are:

(1) Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State.
(2) Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State.
(3) Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State.
(4) Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara.

In a major realignment of political forces ahead of the 2027 general election, at least three to four governors of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) are set to defect to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and support the second term push of President Bola Tinubu.

This is in response to political rumblings in many northern states, which are threatening withdrawal of support for the incumbent President's re-elections.

Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State last Friday, at a public event, confirmed support for President Tinubu saying in his state, there's no more party politics as they are all in a "unity party" of PDP and

GREAT WISDOM FOR VICTORIOUS LIVING.

1. The less you say, the more your words will matter.
Choose your words wisely. In a noisy world full of opinions, wisdom is often found in silence and thoughtful speech. Be known for words that uplift, not for words that merely fill the air.

2. Don't take everything personally.
People have their own battles and burdens. Most aren’t thinking about you as much as you think. Learn to let things go, and choose peace over unnecessary offense.

3. Focus on possibilities, not problems.
Your mindset shapes your destiny. A problem-focused life creates fear and limits, but a possibility-driven mind sees open doors in every difficulty. Be solution-oriented.

4. Your struggle is shaping you.
Pain is a part of growth. What you’re going through today might be the very thing that prepares you for what you prayed for tomorrow. Keep moving forward.

5. There’s a reason behind every connection.
Some people come to teach you, some to test you, and others to build you. And sometimes, you are sent into someone’s life for those same reasons. Learn to discern the difference.

6. Dare to try new things.
Staying in your comfort zone is easy, but greatness lives outside it. Explore, learn, and experience life beyond the familiar. Every risk carries a reward, even if it’s a lesson.

7. Emotional pain is real.
Being ignored by those you care about hurts. Acknowledge it, but don't let it control you. Build emotional resilience. Know your worth doesn't depend on anyone's attention.

8. Appreciate moments while you have them.
Today’s ordinary moments will become tomorrow’s treasured memories. Be fully present in your relationships, conversations, and experiences.

9. Gratitude shifts your focus.
When you start counting your blessings, your heart finds peace, and your eyes open to new opportunities. A grateful heart makes room for more.

10. Control your words, control your life.
Your future is shaped by what you speak. Speak life, hope, and purpose over yourself and others. Don’t let careless words ruin what discipline could have preserved.

11. Life reflects your thoughts.
Your mindset determines your outcome. If you see the world as hostile, you’ll live in fear. If you see it as filled with opportunities, you’ll find them.

12. It's not what happens to you, but how you respond.
Life is unpredictable. You can’t control everything, but you can control your attitude. A positive, faith-driven response will always position you for growth.

13. You wake up to yourself every day.
Be someone you respect when no one’s watching. Integrity and self-respect matter more than public approval.

14. Acts from the heart bring the deepest joy.
When you help, love, or serve with sincerity, the fulfillment you gain is priceless. Pursue what adds value to others.

15. Your circle shapes your destiny.
Surround yourself with people who inspire, challenge, and uplift you. If you walk with wise people, you’ll grow wiser. Choose relationships intentionally.

16. Knowing yourself unlocks your potential.
Self-awareness is a superpower. Understand your strengths, weaknesses, and passions. When you know who you are, you stop living for approval and start living with purpose.

Final Thought for the Youth:
You are living in a time of endless distractions and options. Wisdom is knowing what to hold on to, what to let go of, and what to reach for. Choose God, choose growth, and choose to live intentionally.

“Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.” — Proverbs 4:7

May God bless you, guide you, and cause you to thrive.

DEFINITION OF EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE (EI)

Emotional Intelligence (EI) is the ability to perceive, understand, manage, and regulate one’s own emotions as well as recognize and influence the emotions of others. It involves self-awareness, self-control, motivation, empathy, and social skills.

Daniel Goleman popularized EI and identified five core components:

1. Self-awareness

2. Self-regulation

3. Motivation

4. Empathy

5. Social skills

High emotional intelligence helps individuals build better relationships, reduce stress, defuse conflict, and improve job performance.

50 KEY ISSUES ABOUT EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE (EXPLAINED)

1. Self-Awareness – Knowing your emotions, strengths, weaknesses, and drives.

2. Self-Regulation – Controlling or redirecting disruptive impulses and moods.

3. Internal Motivation – Being driven to achieve beyond external rewards.

4. Empathy – Recognizing and understanding others’ emotions.

5. Social Skills – Managing relationships and building networks effectively.

6. Emotional Recognition – Ability to identify emotions in oneself and others.

7. Emotional Expression – Expressing emotions clearly and appropriately.

8. Emotional Management – Keeping emotional reactions in check.

9. Impulse Control – Resisting or delaying an emotional or behavioral reaction.

10. Self-Confidence – A strong sense of self-worth and capabilities.

11. Adaptability – Flexibility in dealing with change or unexpected obstacles.

12. Stress Management – Handling stress without becoming overwhelmed.

13. Optimism – A positive outlook that helps overcome obstacles.

14. Emotional Resilience – Recovering from setbacks and emotional distress.

15. Conflict Resolution – Managing and resolving disputes constructively.

16. Active Listening – Fully concentrating and understanding before responding.

17. Non-Verbal Communication – Reading body language and emotional cues.

18. Building Rapport – Creating a positive connection with others.

19. Trustworthiness – Being reliable and maintaining integrity.

20. Self-Motivation – Initiating tasks and pursuing goals persistently.

21. Managing Feedback – Giving and receiving feedback positively.

22. Empathetic Listening – Understanding emotions behind the words.

23. Handling Criticism – Receiving negative feedback constructively.

24. Patience – Tolerating delays or problems calmly.

25. Influence – Persuading others while respecting their viewpoints.

26. Teamwork – Collaborating with others toward a common goal.

27. Leadership – Inspiring and guiding others with emotional sensitivity.

28. Emotional Detachment – Knowing when to detach emotionally for objectivity.

29. Personal Responsibility – Owning one’s emotions and actions.

30. Awareness of Others – Sensitivity to others' emotional states and needs.

31. Mindfulness – Being present and aware of emotions in real-time.

32. Emotional Triggers – Recognizing what provokes strong emotional responses.

33. Emotional Vocabulary – Using precise language to describe feelings.

34. Perspective-Taking – Seeing situations from others’ emotional viewpoints.

35. Emotional Contagion – Understanding how emotions spread in groups.

36. Mood Management – Maintaining a healthy and productive emotional state.

37. Cultural Sensitivity – Respecting emotional expressions in diverse cultures.

38. Boundary Setting – Knowing emotional limits and asserting them respectfully.

39. Dealing with Rejection – Handling emotional pain without collapse.

40. Balancing Emotion and Logic – Making decisions that respect both.

41. Compassion – Responding to suffering with understanding and care.

42. Apologizing Sincerely – Recognizing wrongs and expressing remorse.

43. Appreciating Others – Showing gratitude and valuing emotional contributions.

44. Emotional Coaching – Helping others manage their emotions effectively.

45. Emotional Maturity – Consistently behaving in emotionally appropriate ways.

46. Regulating Emotional Climate – Shaping group emotional tone positively.

47. Dealing with Toxic People – Navigating manipulative or overly emotional individuals wisely.

48. Encouragement – Offering emotional support to boost morale.

49. Handling Uncertainty – Coping emotionally with ambiguity and change.

50. Personal Development – Constantly working to improve emotional capabilities.

5 MINUTES AGO: A poor newborn baby was abandoned in a park near his home. In response to this heartbreaking situation, star Luka Modric stepped in to become the child’s guardian, pledging to pay all living expenses until the child turns 18

"WE ARE GOING THROUGH THE TOWN. IF ANYONE BLOCKS YOU, CRUSH HIM!!!"

Bishop Oyedepo's response after the burning of Church buses during the early days in Ota.

During the Morning Session on Saturday at the Easter Faith Convention 2025, Bishop David Oyedepo while emphasizing on the need for members to be bold and never to be intimidated by the forces of darkness, shared some encounters of the early days at Canaanland Ota, the International Headquarters of the Living Faith Church.

He told the congregation how some angry people burnt two of the Church brand new buses and while they were going home, the wife asked him because of the chaos going on in the town, "where are we going through?" He responded, "we are going through the town. People like us don't go through corners." He further gave the driver an instruction, "anybody you meet, crush him." That was how they drove through without any obstruction on the road and that created path for others to go through.

He also cited examples of how birds were dropping dead both in Canaanland and in his house without any man's involvement. "The battles that we confronted here, only Heaven can have the chronicles of it. It takes spiritual boldness to possession your possession" - he stated.