Good morning, Nigeria. Here is your Gossip News Now compilation of the major news stories making headlines across the country today, Sunday, November 16, 2025.
1. Gov Fintiri Opposes Wike’s Removal From PDP, Explains Why
Adamawa State Governor, Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, has disassociated himself from the move to expel the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
According to Gossip News Now , the PDP had earlier removed Wike, former Ekiti governor Ayodele Fayose, and ex-National Secretary Samuel Anyanwu during its convention in Ibadan.
Following the announcement, Fintiri released a statement stressing that he had no involvement in the decision.
Fintiri argued that sending Wike out of the party does not serve the PDP’s long-term interest and said he would not support any action that could intensify the party’s internal conflict.
2. PDP Dissolves All Executives in Imo, Abia, Enugu, Akwa Ibom, and Rivers
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has officially disbanded its executive committees at every level in Imo, Abia, Enugu, Akwa Ibom, and Rivers states.
This decision followed a motion raised at the party’s National Convention in Ibadan on Saturday by Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, and supported by the National Auditor and member of the PDP National Working Committee, Daniel Obiechina Okechukwu.
Makinde explained that the move aligned with the need to confirm and approve executives produced through already-concluded congresses at various tiers of the party structure in different states and zones.
He clarified that between 2024 and 2025, congresses were held nationwide to elect party leaders at the ward, local government, state, and zonal levels, including national ex-officio representatives.
Makinde further noted that these congresses were conducted transparently and largely complied with the Electoral Act 2022, the PDP constitution, and the party’s guidelines across most states and zones.
He added that both the National Executive Committee (NEC) and the National Working Committee (NWC) had ratified the congress outcomes and endorsed the officials who emerged.
According to Gossip News Now, Makinde announced that the party structures in the affected five states had now been nullified.
He said: “For Imo, Abia, Enugu, Akwa Ibom, and Rivers, this Convention hereby disbands all PDP structures at the ward, local government, and state levels.”
“The Convention also authorizes the publication of this resolution as the official notification to the public.”
3. Peter Obi Criticises Federal Government for Sending 749 Delegates to COP30 Amid Rising Poverty
Former Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, Peter Obi, has expressed strong disapproval over the large number of delegates Nigeria sends to international conferences.
He argued that it is unreasonable for the government to sponsor such a massive delegation while millions of citizens continue to suffer under severe and multidimensional poverty.
Writing on his X handle, Obi insisted that Nigeria should not measure itself against China — a nation with far greater economic strength and a much larger population.
He stressed that Nigeria’s global engagements must reflect responsible governance, one that genuinely considers the welfare of its citizens and demonstrates the country’s true readiness to participate meaningfully in global climate initiatives.
4. Regina Daniels’ Drug Test Results Are Authentic — Ned Nwoko Confirms
Senator Ned Nwoko, representing Delta North in the National Assembly, has verified that the widely circulated medical reports alleging Regina Daniels tested positive for cocaine, marijuana, alcohol, morphine, opiates, and other hard substances are genuine.
Gossip News Now earlier reported that a medical document from Serenity Royale Hospital in Abuja, signed by its Managing Director, Dr. Adekunle Adesina, indicated that Regina had been struggling with severe substance abuse and was enrolled in a detoxification programme from September 9 to October 15, 2025.
According to the report, a psychological emergency team was summoned to Nwoko’s home on September 23 after Regina reportedly went 48 hours without sleep and exhibited aggressive behaviour.
The document further noted that Regina displayed verbal aggression, anger, restlessness, and inconsistent emotional responses, with her mood described as “elevated and evasive.”
The hospital also highlighted complications during her detox process, stating that her minimal progress was due to her continued access to addictive substances, which undermined the treatment.
However, the medical centre later issued an Instagram statement denying responsibility for the leaked report, insisting it maintains strict confidentiality and did not publish any patient records.
In a statement released on Saturday, Ned Nwoko clarified that the hospital did not reject the authenticity of the document but only emphasized that it was not the source of the leak.
He added that Regina’s recent behaviours are not coming from a stable mental or emotional state and warned that she is currently surrounded by people taking advantage of her condition.
The statement concluded that Senator Nwoko remains deeply worried about Regina’s welfare and wants her to recover, stay safe, and remain present in her children’s lives.
5. SAFA President Danny Jordan Endorses Nigeria to Defeat DR Congo in World Cup Playoff
The president of the South African Football Association, Danny Jordan, has openly backed the Super Eagles ahead of Sunday’s decisive 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff against the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The fixture is set for the Prince Héritier Moulay El Hassan Sports Complex in Rabat, where the final African slot for the 2026 World Cup will be decided. Kickoff is at 8:00 p.m. Nigerian time.
Although South Africa topped Group C—finishing above Nigeria to secure an automatic qualification spot—Jordan opted to put rivalry aside.
He extended his best wishes to the Super Eagles and voiced strong belief in their ability to get the job done.
Jordan praised the quality and depth of the Nigerian squad, asserting that the team possesses enough talent to dominate any opponent when stakes are high.
He said: “Nigeria are a major footballing nation. They have players who rank among the world’s best, and I hope they deliver a performance worthy of their ability and secure a positive result.”
6. CAF Gives Ndidi the Green Light for DR Congo Clash as Ajayi Rejoins Super Eagles
Super Eagles midfielders Wilfred Ndidi and Alex Iwobi have expressed confidence that Nigeria will perform strongly against Benin Republic and Rwanda in the AFCON 2025 qualifiers scheduled for September.
The national team received a major boost ahead of Sunday’s World Cup playoff against the Democratic Republic of Congo, as the Confederation of African Football officially confirmed that Ndidi is eligible to play.
The update was posted on the team’s official X handle on Saturday, easing worries sparked by the midfielder’s yellow card during Nigeria’s 4–1 win over Gabon.
“CAF has confirmed that Wilfred Ndidi can feature for the Super Eagles in Sunday’s playoff tie against DR Congo,” the announcement read.
“Yellow cards accumulated during the qualifying rounds do not carry into the playoff phase; only active suspensions remain valid.”
Ndidi, who received a caution in the sixth minute of Thursday’s encounter, had accumulated his second yellow of the qualifiers, raising concerns about his availability for the crucial match.
In a separate boost, Semi Ajayi is set to return after completing a one-game suspension. The Hull City defender missed the Gabon victory, where Calvin Bassey partnered youngster Benjamin Fredrick at centre-back.
Head coach Eric Chelle is considering minor tweaks to the defensive setup. One option is moving Fredrick to right-back in place of Bright Osayi-Samuel, which would allow Ajayi to reunite with Bassey in the heart of the defence. His experience will be crucial against a strong, physical DR Congo attack.
Left-back Zaidu Sanusi is also expected to retain his spot as the team prioritises defensive consistency.
7. “Let Your Daughters Spend Christmas With Baba Ijesha” — Comedian Princess Fires Back at Critics
Nigerian comedian and actress, Damilola Adekola — popularly known as Princess — who previously accused Nollywood actor Olanrewaju Omiyinka (Baba Ijesha) of raping her foster daughter, has lashed out at those attacking her following his release from prison.
According to Gossip News Now , the actor regained his freedom on Friday, November 14, 2025, after the Court of Appeal overturned his earlier conviction and cleared him of the charges.
Announcing his release, actor Yomi Fabiyi disclosed on Instagram that Baba Ijesha had been “formally released” after the appellate court nullified the previous judgment.
In a video shared on her Instagram page, Princess responded to those mocking and insulting her, stressing that God does not condone child molestation and telling them sarcastically to feel free to send their daughters to Baba Ijesha for Christmas.
Princess insisted that Baba Ijesha remains a convicted paedophile and serial abuser with multiple victims, and she cautioned schools, landlords, and hotels against allowing him access to their premises.
She further called on the Lagos State Government to publicly list Baba Ijesha as a registered sex offender.
8. “Prepare for Tougher Days Ahead” — Marwa Warns Drug Lords as Tinubu Renews His Appointment
The Chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Buba Marwa, has thanked President Bola Tinubu for renewing his appointment, allowing him to intensify the nation’s fight against drug abuse and trafficking.
According to Gossip News Now , Marwa expressed his gratitude on Saturday through a statement issued by the agency’s Director of Media & Advocacy, Femi Babafemi, acknowledging Tinubu’s recognition of the progress made in combating illicit substances nationwide.
Marwa, who secured a second five-year term on Friday, November 14, 2025, cautioned drug traffickers, syndicates, and criminal cartels to abandon their illegal operations or brace for even harsher measures during his renewed tenure.
He said: “To begin with, I was completely taken aback when I returned from Jumu’ah prayers to meet the celebrations, singing, and joy from our officers. Thank you all. We give glory to God, as all honour belongs to Him. We are grateful to the President and Commander-in-Chief for acknowledging our shared efforts and entrusting us with another mandate to continue the fight against drug misuse and trafficking. I appreciate the management and every officer, male and female, who tirelessly serve this country around the clock despite the dangers involved.”
Marwa also extended gratitude to both local and international partners who continue to work with the agency to combat drug proliferation, and he specifically recognised the consistent backing of the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), as well as the Minister of Finance, Wale Edun.
9. Makinde: “We Endured A Long Fight To Reach This Moment” — Speaks At PDP Convention in Ibadan
Governor Seyi Makinde has expressed confidence that the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) National Convention holding from November 15–16 will usher in a new and positive phase for the party.
Makinde emphasized that the PDP had weathered a long and difficult struggle to reach its present stage and would not retreat now.
According to Gossip News Now , the Governor delivered his remarks on Saturday while welcoming delegates to the convention at the Lekan Salami Sports Complex in Adamasingba, Ibadan.
He commended the determination of the party faithful and encouraged them to remain steadfast despite any pressure or threats.
Makinde said: “I want to welcome every one of you — the steadfast members of our great party. Thank you for coming to Ibadan, here in Oyo State.”
“We have come through an extended period of challenges, but we stand here today. And by God’s grace, this convention will be remembered as the one that transformed the PDP at the national level.”
The Governor also urged delegates to enjoy their time in Ibadan during the convention.
“So as you move around the city, don’t just engage in politics — make sure you also enjoy some amala and gbegiri while you’re here.”
“On that note, on behalf of the government and people of Oyo State, especially our PDP family, we welcome you all,” he concluded.
10. PDP Expels FCT Minister Wike, Fayose, Anyanwu, Others
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Saturday removed the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, ex-governor of Ekiti State, Ayodele Fayose, and former National Secretary, Samuel Anyanwu, from its membership.
The announcement was made during the party’s ongoing national convention taking place at the Lekan Salami Stadium in Adamasingba, Ibadan.
Olabode George, a former PDP National Vice Chairman (South), proposed the motion calling for the immediate removal of the three prominent figures.
George, regarded as one of the most influential elders in the party, insisted that enforcing discipline was crucial to restoring internal cohesion.
His motion was quickly supported by Hon. Samaila Buga, the PDP Chairman in Bauchi State, enabling the convention to formally adopt the decision.
Those are the major Nigerian newspaper headlines for today. For more updates, visit Gossip News Now. Join us again tomorrow for another roundup.
