Here are the major Nigerian news headlines making the rounds today, covering politics, security, entertainment and international sports.
1. Yari Defends Tinubu Over Nigeria’s Insecurity
Senator Abdulaziz Yari has defended President Bola Tinubu over the persistent security challenges facing Nigeria, saying the president has done his best to address insecurity.
Yari, a former governor of Zamfara State, made the remarks during a visit to Kebbi State on Monday, where he met with Governor Nasir Idris, traditional rulers and other political leaders in Birnin Kebbi.
He argued that former President Muhammadu Buhari, despite being a retired military general, was also unable to completely eliminate insecurity during his administration.
Yari maintained that Tinubu should not be blamed entirely for the country’s security challenges, insisting that the president is making efforts to tackle the situation.
2. Zamfara Government Denies Deputy Governor Was Trapped by Angry Youths
The Zamfara State Government has dismissed reports claiming that Deputy Governor Mani Malam Mumini was trapped by angry youths during a visit to Bukkuyum Local Government Area.
Reports had alleged that youths barricaded the entrance to the community and chanted “Bamayi,” meaning “We don't want you,” while protesting repeated bandit attacks and the government's handling of insecurity.
However, the spokesperson for Governor Dauda Lawal, Suleiman Bala Idris, reportedly denied the claims, saying the deputy governor successfully visited the area and donated relief materials to victims of insecurity.
3. Court Dismisses El-Rufai’s ₦120 Million Suit Against DSS, EFCC, ICPC
The High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, has dismissed a ₦120 million fundamental rights enforcement suit filed by former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai against the Department of State Services and other respondents.
Justice Sylvanus Oriji reportedly ruled on Monday that the suit lacked merit and substance.
The court also ordered El-Rufai to pay ₦200,000 in costs to each of the four respondents, including the Attorney-General of the Federation.
The judge held that invitations issued by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission for questioning over allegations against the former governor did not violate his fundamental rights.
4. Makinde Challenges Tinubu Over Alleged ₦250 Billion NLNG Dividends
Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has challenged the Federal Government to address his allegation concerning Nigeria LNG Limited dividends allegedly withheld from states.
Makinde, through his Special Adviser on Media, Sulaimon Olanrewaju, insisted that he has evidence to support his claims.
The governor had alleged that the Tinubu administration was withholding ₦250 billion in NLNG dividends for each state and would not release the funds until after the 2027 general elections.
However, the Presidency rejected the allegation, describing it as false and accusing Makinde of presenting distorted claims for political reasons.
Makinde responded by urging the Federal Government to focus on the substance of the allegation rather than engage in personal attacks.
5. Rivers Assembly Recalls Three Lawmakers After Wike-Fubara Meeting
The Rivers State House of Assembly has reversed its earlier decision to declare the seats of three lawmakers loyal to Governor Siminalayi Fubara vacant.
The decision was reached during plenary on Monday as efforts continued to resolve the political crisis in the state.
The affected lawmakers are Victor Oko-Jumbo, representing Bonny; Adolphus Timothy Oruibienimigha, representing Opobo/Nkoro; and Sokari Goodboy Sokari, representing Ahoada West.
The Assembly considered a letter from the lawmakers explaining that they had not received the notice directing them to resume legislative sittings following the President's intervention.
After the lawmakers apologised, the House accepted their apology and directed them to return to their duties.
6. Sowore Calls DSS Director-General a Coward
African Action Congress presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore has criticised the Director-General of the Department of State Services, Adeola Ajayi, accusing him of avoiding his responsibilities.
Sowore made the remarks while speaking to journalists at the Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday, following proceedings in his ongoing cybercrime trial.
The activist reportedly criticised the DSS chief for failing to appear in court personally and alleged that the agency had identified APC chieftain Joe Igbokwe as a witness in the case.
7. Antar Laniyan Reveals What He Would Do If Friends Criticised Tinubu
Veteran Nollywood actor Antar Laniyan has said he would leave any gathering where a friend begins criticising President Bola Tinubu in his presence.
The actor made the statement during an interview on the Oyinmomo TV podcast.
Laniyan explained that he prefers to avoid political arguments with friends rather than allow disagreements over the president's performance to affect their relationships.
He added that he would rather walk away from such conversations than participate in arguments about Tinubu, even if he personally disagreed with the president.
8. Laide Bakare Blasts Eniola Badmus Over Podcast Reaction
Nollywood actress Laide Bakare has criticised her colleague Eniola Badmus following a reaction that reportedly occurred during a podcast interview.
The incident happened after Nigerian skit maker Isbae U mentioned Laide Bakare as one of his favourite actresses during an interview.
A video circulating online reportedly showed Badmus hissing and changing her facial expression after Bakare's name was mentioned.
Reacting to the clip, Bakare took to Instagram to express her displeasure, accusing her colleague of attempting to undermine her.
The reported exchange has drawn attention online, adding to the ongoing conversation surrounding the relationship between the two actresses.
9. Luis Enrique Reveals PSG’s Plan to Stop Lamine Yamal
Paris Saint-Germain manager Luis Enrique has identified possession-based football as a key part of his side's plan to limit Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal in their UEFA Champions League encounter on Tuesday, October 20.
PSG are set to host Barcelona at the Parc des Princes after recording a 4-2 victory over Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium the previous week.
Barcelona, meanwhile, have enjoyed a strong start to the 2026/27 season, with Yamal emerging as one of their most dangerous attacking players.
The 19-year-old reportedly scored in Barcelona's weekend victory over Real Betis and has continued to contribute goals and assists in domestic and European competitions.
Enrique believes controlling possession and limiting Barcelona's attacking opportunities will be crucial to PSG's chances.
10. De Zerbi Bans Mobile Phones During Meals at Tottenham
Tottenham Hotspur manager Roberto De Zerbi has reportedly introduced a ban on mobile phone use during team meals in an effort to improve squad unity.
The Italian coach implemented the measure during a training camp in Marbella, Spain, encouraging players to communicate more and strengthen their relationships away from the pitch.
The move comes amid a difficult start to Tottenham's Premier League campaign, with the club reportedly struggling for victories and goals.
De Zerbi hopes that improving communication and togetherness among his players will help the team take greater responsibility and improve its performances.
Stay with NaijaBlog for the latest Nigerian news, politics, entertainment, business and sports updates.