White House Rules Out Media Negotiations With Iran
The White House has ruled out conducting negotiations with Iran through the media, insisting that ongoing diplomatic engagements remain confidential. Assistant Press Secretary Olivia Wales said discussions are sensitive and would not be handled publicly, while reaffirming that any agreement must prioritise U.S. interests and prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.
The position comes amid continued tensions between both countries over Iran’s nuclear programme, with the U.S. and Israel pushing for a halt to uranium enrichment. While President Donald Trump has maintained pressure on Tehran, Iranian authorities have indicated that current diplomatic efforts will not address nuclear issues, underscoring persistent disagreements despite ongoing contacts.
Plateau Names New VIO Director
The Plateau State Government has appointed Jonathan Zam as the new Director of the Vehicle Inspection Office following a probe into alleged misconduct, harassment, and excessive enforcement by officials. Commissioner for Transport, Davou Jatau, announced the appointment while receiving the report of an investigative committee set up in February 2026, assuring that the government would enforce accountability and address public concerns about the agency’s operations.
Jatau said the administration would review and implement the committee’s recommendations to correct lapses and restore public confidence, stressing zero tolerance for abuse of authority. The committee chairman, Istifanus Dimang, noted that extensive consultations informed their findings, expressing confidence that the recommendations would improve service delivery, while the new director was tasked with restoring discipline, fairness, and integrity within the agency.
Natasha declares for second term, rallies PDP stakeholders
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has declared her intention to seek a second term in the Senate, signalling the start of early political mobilisation within the Peoples Democratic Party in Kogi Central. The announcement was made at a stakeholders’ meeting attended by party leaders and supporters, following months of consultations and growing calls from constituents across the district.
She used the occasion to urge unity within the party, warning that internal divisions could weaken its electoral prospects, stating, “After due consultations and encouragement from my lovely husband, I am here to say I have accepted your calls to re-contest for my second term as your senator.” Party leaders at the meeting commended her performance in office, while stakeholders pledged to strengthen cohesion and support her re-election bid ahead of the next electoral cycle.
Alleged coup: Court orders speedy trial of 6 suspects, adjourns case to April 29
Justice Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered an accelerated hearing in the trial of six suspects accused of plotting to overthrow President Bola Tinubu’s administration. The court fixed April 29, April 30, May 4, and May 5 for proceedings, including the hearing of bail applications, while the Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, confirmed that the prosecution was ready with its witnesses.
During the session, defence lawyers raised concerns over inadequate time to prepare and the complexity of the case, with one counsel also seeking to move a bail application. However, the judge ruled that the trial would commence before considering bail requests and directed all parties to cooperate in ensuring a speedy hearing as scheduled.
