Good morning, Nigeria. Welcome to the Naija Blog roundup of top newspaper headlines in Nigeria for today, Saturday, 19th July, 2025.

1. Stop Using Buhari’s Death to Clean Your Image – ADC Blasts Tinubu Government

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has accused President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s government of exploiting the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari to refurbish its damaged public image.
In a statement released by ADC’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the party criticised the Federal Executive Council's tribute to Buhari and the public display of his son, Yusuf, describing it as a “calculated PR stunt by an unpopular government.”

The ADC noted that Tinubu’s government had distanced itself from Buhari's policies only to now seek political mileage from his passing, especially in Northern Nigeria.

2. FG Denies Involvement in First Holdco Share Acquisition

The Attorney-General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), has refuted reports suggesting that the federal government acquired 25% of First Holdco through a trustee or Special Purpose Vehicle.
The rebuttal was issued through Kamarudeen Ogundele, the President’s Special Adviser on Communication and Publicity (AGF’s Office), labelling the reports as misleading and malicious.

3. Every Government Has a Cabal – Ex-Chief of Staff to Buhari, Gambari

Ibrahim Gambari, former Chief of Staff to late President Muhammadu Buhari, has acknowledged the presence of a “cabal” within Buhari’s administration.
Speaking to Laolu Akande, former aide to Vice President Osinbajo, Gambari said it is common for presidents worldwide to have a trusted inner circle with significant influence on governance.

4. Atiku Left PDP After 2023 Loss – Josephine Anenih

Former Minister of Women Affairs, Josephine Anenih, has stated that former Vice President Atiku Abubakar effectively exited the PDP after his 2023 presidential election loss, despite officially resigning on July 14, 2025.

Speaking on Channels Television, she stressed that Atiku’s exit poses no threat to the PDP, which is rooted in grassroots mobilization.

5. We Are Not Orphans, Tinubu Is Our Leader – Senator Barau

Deputy Senate President, Barau Jibrin, has dismissed claims that Buhari loyalists in the APC feel abandoned following the former president’s death.
In an interview with BBC Hausa, Jibrin affirmed that President Tinubu remains their leader and was instrumental in APC’s formation and successes even during Buhari’s tenure.

6. Senate Spokesman Mocks ADC Coalition for 2027

Senate Spokesperson, Yemi Adaramodu, has derided the coalition adopting the ADC ahead of the 2027 elections, claiming the group comprises familiar political figures with no new influence.
Adaramodu likened the coalition to a football team changing jerseys but retaining the same tired tactics.

7. Edo Governor Warns Peter Obi: Don’t Visit Without Security Clearance

Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has warned Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, against visiting Edo State without proper security clearance.
This was declared during the defection of Hon. Marcus Onobun to the APC, with the governor boasting that APC now fully controls the state.

8. Lagos Residents Lament Prolonged Power Outage, Blame Ikeja Electric

Residents in parts of Ayobo, Lagos State, including Isokan Phase I & II, Wakilu Street, and Greenlake, continue to suffer from prolonged blackouts since December 2024 due to a failed transformer.

Despite interventions and a replacement attempt, the transformer collapsed again within two months. The community has petitioned Ikeja Electric repeatedly without a lasting solution.

9. Nigerian Gospel Singer Burns Cheque After Church Ministration

Prophet Joel Ogebe, leader of Sounds of Salem, burned a cheque given to him after ministering at the 2025 African Praise Experience (TAPE) Overflow at House on the Rock Church, Lagos.
In a viral video, Ogebe explained that his service was spiritually motivated, not for profit, and he had resolved with his team not to accept payments.

10. Super Falcons Crush Zambia 5-0 to Reach WAFCON Semi-Finals

The Super Falcons of Nigeria thrashed Zambia 5-0 to qualify for the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) semi-finals.
Goals from Osinachi Ohale, Esther Okoronkwo, Chiwendu Ihezuo, Tosin Demehin, and Folashade Ijamilusi sealed the emphatic victory.

That’s all for today’s top stories on Naija Blog. Stay connected for more verified Nigerian news updates!