WAFFI TV | Feature

Pope’s Funeral To Take Place Saturday~ Vatican

The Vatican announced on Tuesday that the funeral of Pope Francis will be held on Saturday at 10:00 a.m. (0800 GMT) in St. Peter’s Square. Following the service, the coffin of the Argentine pontiff—who passed away on Monday at the age of 88—will be taken into the basilica before being transported to the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome for burial.

4/22/2025, 10:13:05 AM

UK Records 22,000 Nigerian Asylum Seekers

Between 2010 and 2024, the United Kingdom Home Office received 22,619 asylum applications from Nigerian nationals, according to data obtained by The PUNCH. During this period, Nigerians accounted for one in every 30 asylum claims in the UK, placing Nigeria 11th on the Home Office’s newly released Asylum and Resettlement statistics. The data also shows a sharp rise in Nigerian asylum applications in 2024, with 2,841 filed—nearly double the 1,462 submitted in 2023. Overall, 2024 recorded the highest number of asylum claims to the UK at 108,138, marking a 378% increase compared to 2010. Most of these were first-time applications, predominantly from South Asian and Middle Eastern countries. Iran led the list with 75,737 applications, driven largely by intensified crackdowns on dissidents. Pakistan followed with 57,621 claims, including 10,542 in 2024, attributed to post-election unrest, inflation, and a surge in blasphemy-related prosecutions. Afghanistan logged 54,363 applications since 2010, with 8,508 in 2024—continuing the wave of migration following the Taliban's return to power in 2022. That year, Afghan asylum requests peaked at 11,358 and dropped to 9,710 in 2023. Other top countries of origin include Albania (50,944), Iraq (45,711), Eritrea (37,687), Syria (34,997), and Bangladesh (31,744), the latter witnessing a rise from 5,097 claims in 2023 to 7,225 in 2024 amid political upheaval and the removal of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Sudan (30,897) and India (30,179) completed the top ten list. Nigeria’s total surpassed Sri Lanka (22,059) and remained ahead of Vietnam, China, and Turkey. At the bottom of the chart were Brazil, Kuwait, Yemen, Colombia, and Jordan, each with fewer than 6,500 asylum applications.

4/22/2025, 7:24:19 AM

FG Approves N10bn For Solar Mini~Grid Installation At Villa

The Federal Government has allocated N10 billion in the 2025 budget to install a solar mini-grid at the Presidential Villa, marking a major step toward reducing reliance on the national grid and mitigating rising electricity costs. Dubbed the “Solarisation of the Villa with Solar Mini Grid,” the project accounts for the entire increase in the State House’s capital expenditure, which rose from N33.55 billion to N43.55 billion. The overall State House budget also jumped from N47.11 billion in the proposed plan to N57.11 billion in the approved version. This move follows mounting concerns over unreliable power supply and the soaring cost of electricity—especially for Band A consumers, who are promised at least 20 hours of electricity daily. In 2024, their tariff surged from N68/kWh to over N209/kWh. The State House spent N483.34 million on electricity in 2024, up from N344.82 million in 2023. This spike was driven by a bulk payment of N316.88 million in October to clear accumulated arrears. Earlier, the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company had named the Villa among top government defaulters, citing a N923.87 million debt—later reconciled to N342.35 million. President Bola Tinubu ordered immediate settlement to avoid disconnection. For 2025, electricity spending is projected at N311.09 million—lower than the previous year—indicating expected cost savings from the upcoming solar power system. Beyond solarisation, the State House budget includes allocations for maintenance, debt payments to contractors, infrastructure upgrades, and property renovations, aligning with a broader push for efficiency and sustainability at the nation’s seat of power.

4/21/2025, 10:28:15 PM

Pope Francis Died Of Stroke~ Vatican

Pope Francis passed away from a stroke that led to a coma and “irreversible” heart failure, according to his death certificate released by the Vatican on Monday. The 88-year-old pontiff died Monday morning, nearly a month after being discharged from a five-week hospital stay where he had battled severe double pneumonia. He died at 7:35 a.m. (0535 GMT) in his apartment at the Santa Marta residence within the Vatican. The death certificate cited “cerebral stroke, coma, irreversible cardiocirculatory collapse” as the official cause. The document also noted that Francis had previously suffered an episode of acute respiratory failure due to double pneumonia. Additionally, it revealed that he had arterial hypertension, multiple bronchiectasis, and Type 2 diabetes — the latter not previously disclosed to the public. The certificate was signed by Professor Andrea Arcangeli, director of health for the Vatican City State.

4/21/2025, 9:52:13 PM

National Assembly Extends Resumption Date To May 6

The National Assembly has postponed its plenary resumption from Tuesday, April 29, 2025, to Tuesday, May 6, 2025. This change was confirmed in a notice signed by the Clerk to the National Assembly, Kamoru Ogunlana, citing the need for lawmakers to partake in Workers’ Day celebrations and address critical constituency issues. “The two Houses of the National Assembly have extended the date for the resumption of plenary sessions to enable members to partake in the Workers’ Day ceremony and other constituency engagements,” the statement read. Members of both legislative chambers and the general public are advised to take note of the new date. The National Assembly expressed regret for any inconvenience caused by the adjustment and appreciated stakeholders for their understanding.

4/21/2025, 4:57:48 PM

Meet Ghana’s Turkson, Guinea’s Sarah In Line To Succeed Pope Francis

The passing of Pope Francis at the age of 88 on Easter Monday has plunged the global Catholic community into mourning. As the Vatican prepares for his funeral, attention is shifting toward who will succeed him. Among the names being discussed are two prominent African cardinals: Peter Turkson of Ghana and Robert Sarah of Guinea. **Cardinal Peter Turkson: Ghana’s Progressive Contender** At 76, Cardinal Peter Turkson is widely seen as a strong candidate for the papacy. Born in Ghana, Turkson was named Archbishop of Cape Coast in 1992 by Pope John Paul II and made cardinal in 2003—the first from his country. Over the years, he has become a key voice in the Church on social justice, human rights, and environmental stewardship. Known for his progressive outlook, Turkson has supported bold positions on climate change and social inequality. He has also expressed openness toward more inclusive discussions on issues like homosexuality, drawing criticism from conservative factions but gaining respect as a trusted advisor to Pope Francis. Appointed by Francis in 2009 to head the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace, Turkson later became the first prefect of the Dicastery for the Promotion of Integral Human Development in 2017. His leadership reflects a vision of a Church that is both compassionate and committed to justice. If elected, he would become the first Black African pope in history. **Cardinal Robert Sarah: Guinea’s Conservative Voice** In contrast, 79-year-old Cardinal Robert Sarah represents a more traditionalist wing of the Church. A native of Guinea, Sarah served as Prefect of the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments from 2014 to 2021. During his tenure, he championed the preservation of traditional liturgy and resisted modern reforms. Sarah is a staunch opponent of same-sex marriage, abortion, and gender ideology, defending what he sees as the foundational principles of the Church. He has also spoken out against Islamic extremism, calling it a major global threat. In 2016, Sarah made headlines for opposing Pope Francis' liturgical reforms, advocating for priests to celebrate Mass facing the altar—a pre-Vatican II practice. His firm stance has garnered both support and controversy, making him a leading voice for those who want a return to traditional Catholic values. Sarah’s uncompromising conservatism could appeal to those within the Church seeking clarity and continuity in doctrine, setting up a possible ideological contrast with more reform-minded candidates like Turkson.

4/21/2025, 2:48:57 PM

Group Slams Ayiri Over Arrest Call On Otuaro

The Centre for Human Rights and Anti-Corruption Crusade (CHURAC) has condemned Chief Ayiri Emami's recent call for the arrest of former Deputy Governor of Delta State, His Excellency, Deacon Kingsley Otuaro. In a press release issued on April 16, 2025, and signed by its Chairman, Board of Trustees, Alaowei Cleric Ebikonbowei, Esq., the group labelled Ayiri as an “uninformed joker” who lacks a proper understanding of the law and constitutional provisions. According to CHURAC, the issue of boundary adjustment — the alleged basis for Ayiri’s arrest demand — is purely a civil matter carried out by the office of the deputy governor, a statutory entity empowered to handle such responsibilities. See the full statement below: PRESS RELEASE 16TH APRIL, 2025 CALL TO ARREST OTUARO; AYIRI IS AN UNINFORMED JOKER It's an insult but we will forgive Ayiri Emami for calling on the IGP to arrest His Excellency, Deacon Kingsley Otuaro, former Deputy Governor of Delta State. We have to forgive this dethroned Ologboshere of Itsekiri nation because he is a glorified pseudo intellectual who is ingloriously suffering from an intellectual embecility. Indeed, the uninformed mind is a burden to the society. Issue of boundary adjustment is purely a civil matter. Granted that the office of the deputy governor of a State is statutorily empowered to carry out that function. If in the exercise of such functions by a State government or even the Federal Government, the laws provide for a medium for an aggrieved person to ventilate his grievances. There's nothing incriminating for the security agents to come in to arrest a person who merely exercises his constitutional functions. If there was any boundary adjustment exercise carried out during the tenure of Barr. Kingsley Otuaro as the deputy governor, it was not Kingsley Otuaro so to say that did it but the office of the deputy governor. That office is a legal entity created by the Constitution. Ayiri is free at anything to approach that office to solve his problem. The invidious Ayiri Emami should know that there's what we called Public Officers Protection Law of Delta State. Before he decides to embarrass himself in public with his intellectual deformity, he should consult intelligent minds around him to tutor him properly. Nigerian constitution under section 36(12) CFRN, 1999 provides that: "Subject as otherwise provided by this Constitution, a person shall not be convicted of a criminal offence unless that offence is defined and the penalty therefore is prescribed in a written law, and in this subsection, a written law refers to an Act of the National Assembly or a Law of a State, any subsidiary legislation or instrument under the provisions of a law." Which offence did Deacon Kingsley Otuaro commit that Ayiri is calling for his arrest? The person who is supposed to be cooling off his feet in the police cells is Ayiri Emami, the self-styled Ologboshere who has been dethroned by his King. His delinquent and insidious utterances towards Ijaw people in the INEC Ward delineation exercise should have invited the security agents to visit him. Consequently, we're calling on the relevant security agencies to immediately arrest Ayiri for incitement and breach of public peace. Signed: Alaowei, Cleric Ebikonbowei, Esq., Chairman Board of Trustees, Centre for Human Rights and Anti-Corruption Crusade (CHURA)

4/21/2025, 12:44:50 PM

Tinubu Expected Back In Nigeria Today~ Presidency

President Bola Tinubu is expected back in Nigeria today, concluding an overseas trip that lasted nearly two weeks, his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, confirmed on Monday. In a brief update on his X (formerly Twitter) account, Onanuga stated: “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will return home today.” The Presidency had earlier assured the public that Tinubu remained actively involved in national affairs while abroad. Onanuga had earlier clarified in a Thursday statement that the President traveled from Paris to London over the weekend and stayed in close contact with key government officials throughout. He emphasized that Tinubu’s absence was temporary and in line with the previously announced schedule, noting his return was planned for April 21, after the Easter holidays. “The President’s commitment to his duties remains unwavering, and his administration continues to function effectively under his leadership. “We appreciate the public’s concern and assure all Nigerians that governance proceeds without interruption,” Onanuga added. Tinubu departed Nigeria for Paris on April 2, 2025, for what the Presidency described as a working visit aimed at reviewing his administration’s mid-term performance and evaluating key milestones. However, his extended absence has drawn criticism from opposition figures amid a spike in insecurity across several regions, particularly in Plateau and Benue states. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, through his media aide Paul Ibe, criticised the president’s continued stay abroad, calling it “irresponsible” amid widespread violence. “Tinubu is away while Nigeria burns—daily killings, attacks, and loss of territories. This is deeply troubling,” Atiku stated. “Nigerians are yearning for real leadership—someone who’s present and actively engaged.”

4/21/2025, 11:16:30 AM

Warri~Itake Train Services Still On Hold~ NRC

The Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) has extended the suspension of the Warri-Itakpe Train Services (WITS), even though earlier technical faults at the station have been resolved. According to an NRC statement, the halt in operations will continue to allow for additional safety checks and service enhancements. The NRC explained that the suspension, which began on April 10, 2025, was prompted by safety concerns and reliability issues following multiple engine failures on April 9. Initially set for 72 hours, the suspension remains in effect beyond the original timeframe to enable the implementation of safety redundancies and system upgrades. This latest disruption adds to a series of operational hiccups along the Warri-Itakpe route. In February 2025, services were temporarily paused due to a technical fault but resumed on February 22. Although engineers have addressed the core mechanical issues, the NRC emphasized the need for more time to reinforce systems and improve overall efficiency. Managing Director Dr. Kayode Opeifa stated that the added measures are crucial to bringing operations in line with international standards and enhancing passenger experience. “The general public will recall that the management of the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) temporarily suspended full rail services on the Warri Itakpe Train Services (WITS), on Thursday, 10th April, 2025, due to some technical and operational issues for safety, better customer service experience, and improved operational efficiencies. “The management of the Corporation, under the leadership of Dr. Kayode Opeif, a wishes to further clarify that while the major technical issues has been resolved by our technical team, additional time is required to implement necessary redundancies that will support sustainable operations in line with best practices,” the statement read in part. The extended suspension will give the NRC time to implement procedural improvements and enhance the safety standards of equipment operating on the Warri-Itakpe route. Passengers are encouraged to stay updated through official NRC platforms, as the corporation continues to prioritize safety and service reliability. In a related incident from July 2024, several coaches derailed near Ujevwu in Delta State. Although there were no injuries, the event prompted a two-day suspension for necessary maintenance. The NRC expressed gratitude to passengers for their understanding and reaffirmed its dedication to resuming Warri-Itakpe operations soon, with better efficiency and reliability.

4/21/2025, 10:26:27 AM

BREAKING: Pope Francis Is Dead

Catholic pontiff, Pope Francis has died. The Vatican has announced the death of Pope Francis at the age of 88. In a statement posted on X, the Vatican confirmed that the pontiff passed away at his residence. Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, he was elected pope on March 13, 2013, making history as the first Latin American to lead the Roman Catholic Church. His death follows a recent battle with a severe case of double pneumonia. “Dear brothers and sisters, it is with profound sadness I must announce the death of our Holy Father Francis. “At 7:35 this morning the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father,” Cardinal Kevin Farrell announced on the Vatican’s TV channel. The Pope faced strong criticism from conservatives, who accused him of discarding long-held traditions. At the same time, he came under fire from progressives, who believed he fell short in efforts to reform the 2,000-year-old Church.

4/21/2025, 10:12:04 AM

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