Lone survivor recounts escape from Air India wreckage

The sole survivor of Thursday’s Air India plane crash, a British national, recounted how he escaped the wreckage through a break in the fuselage.

“I managed to unbuckle myself, used my leg to push through that opening, and crawled out,” Vishwashkumar Ramesh told Indian state media DD News.

Ramesh, 40, was seated in 11A on the London-bound Boeing 787 when the aircraft went down shortly after taking off from Ahmedabad in western India.

According to Air India, everyone else on board was killed in the crash – including 169 Indian citizens and 52 British nationals. Over 200 bodies have been recovered, though it remains uncertain how many were passengers and how many were on the ground.

Read Also: Police arrest three suspects over attack on NANS members

From his hospital bed, Ramesh recalled what happened just moments after take-off.

The lights inside the plane “started flickering,” he said.

Within seconds, he said it felt as though the aircraft was “stuck in the air.”

“The lights started flickering green and white…suddenly slammed into a building and exploded.”

The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner collided with a structure used as living quarters for doctors at Byramjee Jeejeebhoy Medical College and Civil Hospital.

Ramesh said he was in disbelief that he had survived.

“I saw people dying in front of my eyes – the air hostesses, and two people I saw near me,” he said.

“For a moment, I felt like I was going to die too, but when I opened my eyes and looked around, I realised I was alive.

“I still can’t believe how I survived. I walked out of the rubble.”

15 key takeaways from Tinubu’s Democracy Day speech

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday addressed a joint session of the National Assembly in commemoration of Nigeria’s Democracy Day, reaffirming his commitment to democratic governance, economic reform, and national unity.

He dismissed speculations of a one-party agenda, pledged continued efforts toward security and political inclusiveness, and posthumously honoured key figures of the June 12 pro-democracy struggle, including Kudirat Abiola and Ken Saro-Wiwa.

Here are 15 key takeaways from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Democracy Day speech to the National Assembly on June 12:

1.            Commitment to Democracy: President Tinubu reaffirmed that democracy remains Nigeria’s only viable form of government, vowing to defend it against all threats.

2.            Dismissal of One-Party State Claims: He refuted allegations that his administration is plotting to create a one-party state, describing them as “baseless and unfounded.”

3.            Unity in Diversity: Tinubu urged Nigerians to see diversity as a source of strength and called for unity across ethnic, religious, and political lines.

4.            Tribute to June 12 Heroes: He paid homage to pro-democracy figures, especially the late Chief MKO Abiola, winner of the annulled 1993 presidential election.

Read Also: Democracy Day: Tinubu cancels National Broadcast, to Address Nigerians from NASS

5.            Posthumous Honours: Tinubu announced national honours for the late Kudirat Abiola, Ken Saro-Wiwa, and other democracy activists for their sacrifices.

6.            Economic Recovery Update: The president reported progress in stabilizing the economy, noting that reforms are beginning to yield results.

7.            Petroleum Industry Deregulation: He defended the removal of fuel subsidies, stating it was necessary to prevent economic collapse.

8.            Naira Reforms: Tinubu said efforts to unify the exchange rate are restoring investor confidence and curbing financial abuses.

9.            Youth Empowerment: He promised increased investments in youth and skills development to tackle unemployment and drive innovation.

10.          Security Commitments: Tinubu pledged to continue reforms in the security sector to combat terrorism, banditry, and other crimes.

11.          Electoral Reforms: He hinted at ongoing work to improve the credibility of Nigeria’s electoral system, ensuring free and fair elections.

12.          Legislative Collaboration: The president praised the National Assembly for its support and called for sustained executive-legislative harmony.

13.          Social Investments: He restated his administration’s commitment to social intervention programmes to reduce poverty and cushion hardship.

14.          National Development Agenda: Tinubu emphasized that infrastructure development, education, and healthcare remain top priorities.

15.          Democratic Legacy: He called on Nigerians to protect the democratic gains achieved since 1999, asserting that only democracy can secure the country’s future.

Democracy Day: Tinubu cancels National Broadcast, to Address Nigerians from NASS

President Bola Tinubu has cancelled the earlier scheduled nationwide broadcast in commemoration of Nigeria’s 26th Democracy Day anniversary.

In a statement released on Wednesday, Director of Information and Public Relations, Segun Imohiosen, explained that the change in plans was due to the president’s scheduled attendance at a joint session of the National Assembly on Thursday.

“Due to President Bola Tinubu’s scheduled attendance at the National Assembly Joint Session, the Presidential National Broadcast on June 12 has been cancelled. President Tinubu will deliver his address from the National Assembly,” Imohiosen said.

He added that “other scheduled activities to mark the day will proceed as planned.”

Read Also: Tinubu inaugurates multiple projects in Kogi

Earlier, a notice sent to journalists had also announced the cancellation of the traditional military parade initially scheduled to commemorate the 26th Democracy Day on Thursday, June 12, 2025. No official reason was provided for this cancellation.

The notice further stated that the president will participate in a special joint session of the National Assembly later in the day at 12 noon.

Signed by Abdulhakeem Adeoye on behalf of the Director, Information & Public Relations in the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, the notice outlined a revised programme for the day.

It read: “The Inter-Ministerial Committee wishes to announce the following developments on the 26th Democracy Day celebration:

  1. Presidential National Broadcast on June 12, 2025, at 7 a.m.
  2. No Democracy Day Parade.
  3. H.E. President Bola Tinubu is to attend the National Assembly Joint Session at 12 noon.
  4. Public Lecture on Democracy Day Celebration at the State House Conference Centre, Abuja. Time: 4 p.m.
    Theme: ‘Consolidating on the Gains of Nigeria’s Democracy: Necessity of Enduring Reforms.’”

The committee also noted that the public lecture will be covered exclusively by accredited State House correspondents.

Oshiomhole’s unruly conduct disrupts Lagos Airport following missed flight – Air Peace

Air Peace on Wednesday condemned the disruptive behaviour of former Edo State Governor and current Senator Adams Oshiomhole at Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal 1, Lagos.

The incident occurred on Wednesday morning, June 11, 2025, after Senator Oshiomhole arrived at approximately 6:10 AM for Flight P47120 bound for Abuja, scheduled to depart at 6:30 AM.

In line with Air Peace’s strict on-time departure policy, boarding had closed and the aircraft departed as planned. Upon learning he had missed his flight, Senator Oshiomhole allegedly became violent, assaulting Air Peace staff and forcibly barricading the terminal entrance. His actions prevented other passengers from entering the terminal and caused significant operational disruption.

To minimize further inconvenience, Air Peace immediately activated its contingency plan, rerouting affected travellers through an alternate terminal to ensure they reached their destinations with minimal delay.

Read Also: Sanwo-Olu swears in eight Permanent Secretaries

In an official statement, Air Peace management said:

“Air Peace strongly condemns the unruly conduct of a prominent Nigerian politician who disrupted airport operations on the morning of Wednesday, June 11, 2025. The prominent individual in question arrived at Murtala Muhammed Airport Terminal 1 (Zulu Hall) at approximately 06:10 AM for Flight P47120 scheduled to depart Lagos for Abuja at 06:30 AM. In line with our standard on-time departure policy, the boarding process had closed, and the flight departed as scheduled.

“Upon being informed of the missed flight, the politician resorted to violence, physically assaulting our staff and forcefully barricading the terminal’s entrance. He went as far as sealing the entry gate and manning the access point, effectively obstructing other passengers from gaining entry into the terminal.

“This unacceptable behavior caused significant disruption to ongoing operations and affected numerous travelers scheduled for various flights. To minimize further inconvenience, Air Peace swiftly activated an operational contingency plan to board affected passengers through an alternate terminal, ensuring the continuity of their travel plans.

“We are deeply saddened that such a high-profile figure displayed conduct so unbecoming and disruptive to fellow passengers and our personnel. Air Peace maintains a zero-tolerance stance on violence or any form of aggression against our staff and passengers.

“We urge all guests to remain civil and cooperative at all times. Aviation operations are bound by strict timelines and safety protocols, and we remain committed to upholding these standards while delivering safe and timely services to the Nigerian public.

“Air Peace continues to stand for discipline, integrity, and respect for due process. No individual, no matter how influential, is above these values.”

Air Peace reiterates its commitment to the safety and dignity of every passenger and staff member, and will pursue all appropriate measures to safeguard its operations and personnel against future incidents.

Alleged 27bn fraud: Court overrules Darius Ishaku’s admissibility objection

 A Federal Capital Territory (FCT), High Court, Maitama, on Wednesday overruled the objection raised by the former Taraba Governor, Darius Ishaku on admissibility of some documents.

Ishaku is being prosecuted by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), on behalf of the Federal Government, alongside Bello Yero, former permanent secretary, Bureau for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs in the state.

The defendants were charged with 15-count-charge of criminal breach of trust, conspiracy and conversion of public funds to the tune of N27 billion.

They, however, pleaded not guilty to the charge.

Earlier, Paul Ogbole SAN, counsel for Ishaku had objected to a document (statement) tended to be tendered by the prosecution through the first prosecution witness (PW1).

Justice Slyvanius Oriji, however, overruled the objection by Paul Ogbole (SAN), Ishaku’s counsel for not meeting the required provisions of the law.

He held that the statement of the PW1 at the EFCC upon his arrest could not contravene the law because he was not the suspect or defendant in this case.

“The provisions of Sections 15(4) and 17(2) of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, 2015 were made by the legislature to complement Section 29(1) of the Evidence Act,” he held.

He wondered if the counsel would like to be granted trial-within-trial to ascertain the voluntariness of the statement.

“The objection is overruled and the statement received in evidence,’’ he stated.

He subsequently, adjourned the matter until July 2 for cross examination of PW1 and continuation of the matter.

Read Also: Appeal Court affirms Olaoye as Soun of Ogbomoso

At the resumed hearing in the matter on Wednesday, the PW1 Ismail Lawal, former personal assistant to Ishaku concluded his evidence.

The prosecution counsel, Rotimi Jacobs (SAN), had wanted to tender the statement of the witness made at the EFCC office.

But Ogbole, objected arguing that the witness (Lawal) made the statement under caution, adding that there was no legal presence, no video recording.

He cited provisions of Sections 17(2) and 15(2) of Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA).

Adeola Adedipe (SAN), however, did not object to the admissibility of the document.

Responding, Jacobs referred the court to section 237 of the Evidence Act which he said rendered admissible under ACJA void.

He said that the statement of the witness was consistent with his testimony.

He added that it must not be a lawyer that should be present at the making of a statement, but anyone of the person’s choice.

He informed the court that in the instant case, that the friend of the witness, one Omotosho was present.

Jacobs, therefore, urged that the court should admit the document in evidence.

Earlier in his evidence led by Jacobs, the witness told the court that based on the instructions of the former Ishaku he disbursed money severally to different sources.

He said that he went to the permanent secretary at Jalingo, Chindo Audu liaison officer in Abuja, Dauda Moses to pick money.

He added that the money was usually in cash ranging from N20 million to N100 million and sent to different sources in line to the ex-governor’s instructions.

Lawal said that he also collected money from Taiwo Jones and when not around from John Olumba and one Emmanuel Uwazurike and sometimes he received the monies via his account.

(NAN)

Sanwo-Olu escorts Tinubu to airport amid reconciliation

President Bola Tinubu has returned to Abuja after a two-week stay in Lagos, with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu accompanying him to the Murtala Muhammed International Airport on Tuesday afternoon—signaling a possible end to their widely reported rift.

Tinubu had been in Lagos since May 27, participating in the 50th anniversary celebration of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and observing the Eid al-Adha festival with the Muslim community.

However, during his stay, speculation about a strained relationship between the president and the Lagos governor dominated political discourse.

Read Also: JUST IN: Sanwo-Olu presents N3tr budget for 2025

The tension became evident on May 31 during the inauguration of Phase 1, Section 1 (30km, six lanes) of the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway. At the event, attended by several high-profile dignitaries—including former Senate President Ahmed Lawan and Governors Babagana Zulum (Borno), Douye Diri (Bayelsa), and Bassey Otu (Cross River)—Tinubu shook hands with each official in line. But when he reached Sanwo-Olu, the president appeared to snub him, bypassing the governor and instead greeting Kogi State Governor Ahmed Ododo, who stood next.

The perceived tension deepened on June 5 when Sanwo-Olu was conspicuously absent at the flag-off of the deep seaport access road reconstruction in the Epe-Ijebu Ode axis. Though his seat was labeled, it remained empty, while his deputy, Femi Hamzat, was seen seated behind it.

Reports suggest that Tinubu reconciled with Sanwo-Olu during a meeting with the Governor’s Advisory Council (GAC) on Sunday. During the meeting, the president was quoted as telling the governor that his “sins have been forgiven.”

The fallout is believed to have stemmed from the controversial impeachment of Mudashiru Obasa as Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly in February, following allegations of financial misconduct. Obasa was reinstated after 49 days, reportedly due to Tinubu’s intervention.

With Sanwo-Olu accompanying Tinubu to the airport, it appears both leaders may have moved past the dispute—at least for now.

APC chieftain Jesutega Onokpasa dies

Barrister Jesutega Onokpasa, a prominent chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and political analyst, has reportedly passed away.

Onokpasa, a lawyer and member of the APC Presidential Campaign Council during the 2023 general elections, was said to have died on Monday under circumstances that have not yet been made public.

His passing was announced on Tuesday on X by pro-APC advocate Okezie Atani.

He wrote, “We lost Barr. Jesutega Onokpasa, may his soul rest in perfect peace.”

A Facebook page named Renewed Hope United Kingdom also wrote a tribute entitled “A Farewell to a Passionate Advocate: Honouring Jesutega Onokpasa’s Legacy” to announce the late APC chieftain’s demise.

Read Also: Former UK deputy PM John Prescott dies at 86

It wrote, “The passing of Barrister Jesutega Onokpasa is a profound loss to the Nigerian political and legal landscape. As a dedicated lawyer and political commentator, he was deeply engaged in shaping discourse and advocating for his beliefs.

“His contributions as a member of the APC Publicity Committee and the APC Presidential Campaign Council in 2023 reflected his commitment to his party and the nation. Onokpasa’s voice, whether in support or critique, was a vital part of Nigeria’s democratic conversation, and his absence will be deeply felt. May his family, friends, and colleagues find strength and solace in this difficult time.

“May His Soul Rest in Perfect Peace. Amen.”

Onokpasa became famous for his vocal support of President Bola Tinubu and regularly appeared on television to defend the APC-led administration.

Details Shortly…

PDP inaugurates 39 new BoT members

Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Monday inaugurated 39 new members of it’s Board of Trusteees (BoT).

The BoT Chairman, Sen. Adolphus Wabara, while inaugurating the new members at the party’s national secretariat in Abuja, said that they were nominees of states and zones.

Wabara said that the nomination of the new members was based on their dedication, experience and unwavering loyalty to the party.

He described the occasion as not only a celebration of a new beginning, but also a reaffirmation of collective commitment to the values and principles of PDP.

The BoT chairman urged the new members to consider their appointments as a call to service and uphold the integrity, unity and vision of the party as they strived for a prosperous and democratic country.

“Your role as members of the board is not only to guide and support the leadership of the party but also to act as a stabilising force in times of challenges and uncertainties.

“Today’s inauguration is particularly significant as we prepare to navigate the evolving political landscape and work tirelessly to restore PDP as the foremost party in Nigeria.

“The task ahead is demanding, but with unity, determination and unwavering commitment to the principles of democracy, we shall overcome,” he said.

Wabara also reminded the new remembers that their presence on the board was not only a position of honour but a position of responsibility.

Read Also: PDP condemns Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension

“Let us continue to work together to uphold the vision of our founding fathers and build a stronger, more inclusive and more progressive PDP,” he said.

Speaking earlier. the acting PDP National Chairman, Umar Damagum, congratulated the new members, saying that the party would be looking forward for more members on the BoT.

Damagum, represented by the acting National Secretary, Setonji Koshoedo, assured that the National Working Committee would continue to support the board.

Speaking on the appointment, a new BoT member, Jones Onyeriri, said that the composition of  the board was a reflection of the party’s strength.

“It isn’t a big problem for some people that are defecting to other parties; even Jesus Christ, at a time, had some of his disciples who defected.

“So, for me, it is a sign that we are nearer to our crown. We have taken over and still strong.

“Nobody is sabotaging the party. Please trust me on this, as anyone that is doing that is already out of the party,” Onyeriri said.

Another new BoT member, Eddy Olafeso, said that the inauguration of the board was a regeneration of the glorious past, pledging that they would work together to ensure that the party continued to function as a strong opposition with new ideas, new people and new orientation.

“With the quality of leadership and the heritage of the past, we can make Nigeria better than it is today,” he said.

Asked why he resigned his position as Vice-Chairman, South-West when he went to contest for Ondo governorship election, Olafeso said that he did that as a democrat and loyal member of the party.

“There’s no reason for me to hold the party down. If I want to go for another position, I must leave that position as directed by the constitution. Things will work better.

“Discipline is part of democracy; commitment is part of democracy. We must adjust to the way we want to act.

“I did the needful; I’m loyal to my party. I can’t take my party to court. I’ll continue to serve it and do my best to solve the problems within the party,” Olafeso said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that other members inaugurated included: Labaran Maku, Ibrahim Shekarau, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, Samuel Ortom and Nimota Ibrahim.

(NAN)

FULL GUIDE: How to check your 2025 JAMB results

The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has officially announced the release of the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) results.

In a statement released on Monday, JAMB disclosed that over 75% of candidates who took the 2025 UTME scored below 200.

How to Check Your JAMB 2025 Result via SMS

Option 1: SMS Method

To check your 2025 UTME result through SMS, follow these steps:

  • Send UTMERESULT to 55019 or 66019 using the same phone number you used during registration.
  • You will receive your result as a text message shortly after.

Read Also: NASS clears JAMB of alleged misappropriation

Here are the possible response messages you might receive:

  • If you use a phone number different from the one used during registration:
    “This phone number was not used for registration.”
  • If your result is available:
    “Dear Mr/Miss X, your result is as follows…” (Your scores will follow).
  • If your result has been withheld:
    “Result Withheld.”
  • If JAMB is awaiting further documentation from you:
    “Result withheld pending the upload of clarifications/documents required from you.”
  • If you were absent for the exam:
    “CANDIDATE ABSENT.”
  • If your registration number was also cancelled due to absence:
    “ABSENT WITH REGISTRATION NUMBER ALSO CANCELLED.”
  • If you entered the exam hall without proper authorization:
    “Invalid Entrance into the Exam Hall.”

Option 2: Check Your UTME Result Online

You can also view your result online by following these steps:

  1. Visit the JAMB eFacility Portal:
    Go to https://efacility.jamb.gov.ng/login on your browser.
  2. Log In:
    Use the email address and password you registered with during UTME.
  3. View Your Result:
    After logging in, click on the “Check UTME Results” link to view your subject-by-subject scores on your dashboard.

10 Cardinals who could become the next Pope after Francis

Following the passing of Pope Francis on April 21, the Catholic Church finds itself at a defining moment as it prepares for a new chapter in leadership. As the first pontiff from Latin America, Francis left a profound legacy, advocating for social justice, environmental responsibility, and a more inclusive Church.

The College of Cardinals will soon assemble at the Vatican for the conclave—an event that will not only elect the next pope to guide the 1.37 billion Catholics worldwide but also shape the Church’s future direction on doctrine, governance, and global engagement.

Among the leading figures being considered are ten high-ranking cardinals from various parts of the world, each reflecting the evolving priorities and global diversity of today’s Church.

From the progressive and charismatic Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle of the Philippines to the seasoned Vatican diplomat Cardinal Pietro Parolin of Italy, the potential successors offer a wide ideological range—from reform-minded voices to staunch traditionalists.

Notably, Ghana’s Cardinal Peter Turkson stands as a powerful symbol of the Church’s growth in Africa and its increasing focus on issues like economic justice and climate change. His candidacy resonates with those seeking a pope committed to global inclusivity and the social teachings of the Church.

Here are 10 Cardinals Who Could Become the Next Pope:

1. Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle (Philippines)
Age: 67

  • Cardinal-Bishop of San Felice da Cantalice a Centocelle (pro hac vice)
  • President, Catholic Biblical Federation
  • Grand Chancellor, Pontifical Urbaniana University
  • Member of several Roman Curia departments
    Profile: A leading progressive figure with pastoral warmth and a close alliance with Pope Francis, Tagle is known for his work in evangelization and inclusion.

2. Cardinal Pietro Parolin (Italy)
Age: 70

  • Vatican Secretary of State since 2013
  • Member of the Council of Cardinals since 2014
    Profile: A seasoned diplomat and moderate theologian, Parolin is deeply involved in Vatican governance and is seen as a continuity candidate.

3. Cardinal Péter Erdő (Hungary)
Age: 72

  • Archbishop of Esztergom-Budapest
  • Primate of Hungary
    Profile: A respected canon law expert and conservative theologian, Erdő represents the Church’s traditionalist wing.

Read Also: Nigeria making progress in humanitarian crisis- UNICEF

4. Cardinal Raymond Leo Burke (USA)
Age: 76

  • Former Archbishop of St. Louis
  • Former Prefect of the Apostolic Signatura
  • Patron of the Sovereign Military Order of Malta (2014–2023)
    Profile: A vocal critic of Francis, Burke is one of the most recognized traditionalist voices in the Church today.

5. Cardinal Matteo Zuppi (Italy)
Age: 69

  • Archbishop of Bologna
    Profile: Known for his work with the Sant’Egidio Community, Zuppi is a progressive bridge-builder with a reputation for diplomacy and grassroots engagement.

6. Cardinal Willem Jacobus Eijk (Netherlands)
Age: 71

  • Archbishop of Utrecht
  • Background in medicine and moral theology
    Profile: A conservative voice, Eijk is a bioethics expert and a strong defender of traditional Church teachings.

7. Cardinal Mario Grech (Malta)
Age: 68

  • Secretary General of the Synod of Bishops
    Profile: A central figure in synodal reforms under Pope Francis, Grech is seen as a capable administrator and a thoughtful moderate.

8. Cardinal Peter Turkson (Ghana)
Age: 76

  • Head of the Pontifical Academies of Sciences
  • Former Prefect of the Dicastery for Integral Human Development
  • Former President of the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace
    Profile: A global advocate for social justice, economic equity, and environmental care, Turkson is a prominent African leader with deep pastoral and diplomatic experience.

9. Cardinal Angelo Scola (Italy)
Age: 83 (Not eligible to vote)

  • Former Archbishop of Milan
  • Former Patriarch of Venice
    Profile: A longtime papal contender with a philosophical and theological background, Scola represents the traditional Catholic hierarchy.

10. Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa (Italy)
Age: 59

  • Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem
    Profile: With a Franciscan heritage and expertise in interfaith dialogue, Pizzaballa is a rising figure in Middle Eastern Church affairs.