Morning recap: Abuja pastor kneels, begs Wike over Jabi Lake, 130 Nigerians sign up for S’Africa evacuation, other top stories

From a pastor’s emotional appeal over a key Abuja recreational space to rising geopolitical tension in the Strait of Hormuz, and from major political realignments ahead of 2027 to evacuation plans for Nigerians in South Africa and corporate rebuttals in Nigeria’s business space, today’s headlines cut across governance, security, diplomacy and the economy.

Meanwhile, evacuation efforts intensified amid xenophobic tensions abroad, and Dangote Group addressed circulating claims about its leadership.

Here’s your complete morning roundup:

Mounting concern over public space preservation in the Federal Capital Territory has emerged as Senior Pastor of Family Worship Centre, Sarah Omakwu, appealed to the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, to halt any plans to allocate the Jabi Lake recreation area for private development.

The cleric, in a widely circulated video, was seen kneeling while urging authorities to preserve the site, citing its social and economic value to residents who use it for leisure, business and community activities.

Omakwu stressed the importance of maintaining the space for public use, saying, “I cannot fight the minister of the FCT. I cannot. But I go on my knees as a mother in this land that Jabi Lake Recreation Centre should not be given to anybody.” She added, “I beg you, Mr. Minister, in the name of God, as a mother, to not sell that land to anybody.”

Her appeal comes months after the FCT Administration entered into partnerships with private firms to upgrade the facility and boost tourism.

While commending ongoing infrastructure development, she urged authorities to reconsider, warning against restricting access to public spaces.

Abuja pastor Omakwu kneels, begs Wike over Jabi Lake land

Amid growing concerns over anti-foreigner protests in South Africa, at least 130 Nigerians have registered for voluntary evacuation flights as part of government efforts to ensure citizens’ safety.

The move follows rising tensions and reports of attacks linked to xenophobic sentiments in parts of the country.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, confirmed the development, stating, “So far, 130 applicants have duly registered for the exercise with our mission.”

She added, “The President has reiterated that the priority at this time remains the safety of our citizens.”

Authorities also confirmed diplomatic engagement with South Africa, including summoning its acting High Commissioner. While recent protests were largely peaceful, two deaths involving Nigerians have raised concern, prompting calls for justice and increased protection.

3. 2027: Obi, Kwankwaso join NDC, demand litigation-free politics

Fresh political realignments ahead of the 2027 elections gained momentum as former presidential candidate Peter Obi and ex-Kano governor Rabiu Kwankwaso formally joined the Nigeria Democratic Congress, calling for an end to internal party disputes and litigation.

Their move follows Obi’s exit from the African Democratic Congress, citing persistent crises.

Obi emphasised the need for stability, stating, “We are coming here to be part of the peaceful family that will work hard to build a united, secure, prosperous Nigeria.”

He added, “Please, let there be no litigation. Party members, please don’t go to court.”

Kwankwaso echoed similar sentiments, highlighting alignment in ideology and governance priorities. The development drew reactions from the Presidency and the APC, with officials criticising Obi’s shifting party affiliations, underscoring intensifying political positioning ahead of 2027.

2027: Obi, Kwankwaso join NDC, demand litigation-free politics

4. Dangote denies rift with Elumelu, funding claims

Fresh controversy surrounding Nigeria’s business landscape has been dismissed by the Dangote Group, which refuted claims of a rift between its president, Aliko Dangote, and Heirs Holdings Chairman, Tony Elumelu, as well as allegations regarding refinery financing.

The company described the circulating report as false, stating, “The Dangote Group has become aware of a publication… which is false, malicious, and baseless.” It added, “At no time did the President or the Group make such statements or express such sentiments.”

The group also rejected claims that the refinery project was funded through personal borrowing, insisting such assertions were inaccurate. It warned against the spread of fabricated content and unauthorised use of Dangote’s identity, stressing its commitment to protecting its reputation and maintaining transparency in its operations.

Dangote denies rift with Elumelu, funding claims

5. Iran warns of ceasefire violation as US plans to escort Hormuz ships

Rising tension in the Middle East has deepened as Iran warned it would treat any US attempt to escort ships through the Strait of Hormuz as a violation of the ongoing ceasefire.

The warning follows plans by US President Donald Trump to begin maritime escort operations under a new initiative aimed at aiding vessels stranded by the blockade.

Iranian authorities signalled strong opposition to the move, stating that interference would undermine fragile peace efforts.

The head of Iran’s parliamentary national security commission said, “Any American interference in the new maritime regime of the Strait of Hormuz will be considered a violation of the ceasefire.”

Trump, however, defended the plan as necessary, saying, “We will use our best efforts to get their Ships and Crews safely out of the Strait.”

The development highlights ongoing deadlock in negotiations and the strategic importance of the waterway, which remains critical to global energy supply.

Iran warns of ceasefire violation as US plans to escort Hormuz ships