Nigerian Newspapers Today: Top 10 Headlines You Need to Know – Friday Morning News Update

Stay informed with the top stories in Nigeria today, Friday, 9th May 2025. From political developments and national security to public health and global religious events, here are the most important headlines from leading Nigerian newspapers.

1. INEC Yet to Decide on PDP, Labour Party Leadership Crisis

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has stated that it has not yet made any official decision regarding the ongoing leadership tussles in the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and the Labour Party (LP). INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, disclosed this on Thursday evening, indicating that the commission is still reviewing developments.

2. 200,000 Nigerians Die Annually from Food-Related Diseases – Minister

The Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Geoffrey Nnaji, revealed a shocking statistic during the launch of a new food safety operational manual in Abuja. According to him, over 200,000 Nigerians, many of them children, die each year due to foodborne illnesses. The initiative aims to ensure safer practices among food vendors, markets, and street food operators.

3. Three PDP Lawmakers Defect to APC in Presence of Katsina Governor

In a dramatic political development, three lawmakers from Katsina State representing the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC). Governor Dikko Umar Radda personally appeared in the House of Representatives chamber to witness the defections, highlighting a significant power shift in the region.

4. Goodluck Jonathan Warns Against One-Party System in Nigeria

Former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan has issued a stern warning against political maneuvers aimed at turning Nigeria into a one-party state. He cautioned that such moves, driven by personal ambition, would undermine democracy and could lead to serious political instability.

5. President Tinubu Defends Harsh Economic Policies as Necessary

Amid growing public concern over tough economic policies, President Bola Tinubu has clarified that the recent measures are not intended to punish Nigerians. Speaking at the 55th Annual Conference of the Nigerian Institute of Estate Surveyors and Valuers (NIESV) in Abuja, Tinubu emphasized that these decisions are vital to prevent economic collapse.

6. Confusion Over Reported Kidnap of 18 Passengers in Kogi State

There is widespread confusion following reports of the kidnap of 18 passengers along the Itobe/Ochadamu road in Kogi State. Although sources claim the passengers were abducted on Tuesday, the Kogi State Police Command has yet to confirm the incident, raising questions about the exact details.

7. Osun Police Investigate Death of Man Found in River

Authorities in Osun State have launched an investigation after the body of Kehinde Ijebu, a resident of Ibokun, was discovered in the Oyile River. The body was found on Wednesday, a day after he was reported missing. The circumstances surrounding his death remain unclear.

8. Police Inspector Killed in Rivers State Ambush

Tragedy struck on Tuesday night as Inspector Christian Gbaratee was shot dead during an ambush by gunmen on the Port Harcourt–Aba Road. The officers were returning from a patrol when the attack occurred at approximately 8:30 p.m., according to reports from counter-insurgency expert Zagazola Makama.

9. Pope Leo XIV to Celebrate First Mass Today at Sistine Chapel

The newly elected Pope Leo XIV will preside over his first major Mass today at the Sistine Chapel, according to the Vatican. The Pope will also deliver a midday prayer at St. Peter’s Basilica on Sunday, marking the beginning of his spiritual leadership.

10. World Leaders Welcome Pope Leo XIV as New Pontiff

Global leaders including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and former U.S. President Donald Trump have congratulated Pope Leo XIV on his election as the 267th head of the Catholic Church. Messages of hope and peace have poured in from around the world, expressing optimism for a unifying pontificate.

Final Thoughts

These top stories offer a snapshot of Nigeria’s political climate, public health concerns, and global religious events. Stay tuned for more verified news and updates as they develop.

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