If your timeline was doing too much or you simply blinked, here’s a quick roundup of the stories that dominated conversations last week, from politics to pop culture and everything in between.
Omoni Oboli Bags Major Recognition
Omoni Oboli was named Content Creator of the Year (YouTube) for 2025, a win that underscores her dominance in Nigeria’s digital film space. The actress and filmmaker has successfully carved out a strong YouTube presence, consistently delivering high-performing films that resonate with audiences at home and in the diaspora. The award not only celebrates her storytelling range but also highlights how Nollywood veterans are redefining success in the creator economy.
Benin Republic Arrests Ex-President’s Son
Chabi Yayi, the son of former Beninese president Thomas Boni Yayi, was arrested early Sunday at his home following a foiled coup attempt in the country. Details on specific charges have not been officially published yet.
Sanwo-Olu Pulls Up at Lagos Food Festival
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu stepped out for a food festival, spotlighting local cuisine, small businesses and Lagos’ ever-growing food culture. Because in Lagos, food is never just food but it’s an experience.
Kemi Badenoch Vows to Scrap UK Petrol Policies
UK politician Kemi Badenoch made waves after vowing to scrap existing petrol-related policies, positioning herself as a strong voice against regulations she says hurt everyday citizens. The statement sparked fresh debates around energy, cost of living and climate policy in the UK
John Cena Announces Retirement
Wrestling fans got emotional as John Cena officially announced his retirement, closing a legendary chapter in WWE history. From championship belts to meme-worthy moments, Cena’s run shaped an entire generation of wrestling fans.
“I’ve Been Approached to Join APC, But I Won’t Defect” — Senator Natasha
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan addressed rumours about her political future last week, confirming that she has been approached to defect to the ruling APC. However, the lawmaker made it clear that she has no intention of leaving her party, shutting down speculation and reaffirming her current political stance amid Nigeria’s increasingly active pre-2027 realignments.
Cardi B and Davido Perform in Saudi Arabia
Global rap star Cardi B and Afrobeats heavyweight Davido both took the stage in Saudi Arabia, marking another major moment for African and global pop culture in the Middle East. The performances highlighted Saudi Arabia’s growing investment in international entertainment and Afrobeats’ continued rise as a global export.
PDP Enlists Obasanjo Ahead of 2027
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) reportedly enlisted former president Olusegun Obasanjo as part of consultations and strategy discussions ahead of the 2027 general elections. While Obasanjo has remained publicly non-partisan in recent years, his involvement signals the party’s push to leverage experience and influence as political calculations for 2027 intensify.
Obi Slams FG Over ₦17.8 Trillion Loan Plan
Former presidential candidate Peter Obi criticised the Federal Government’s proposed ₦17.8 trillion loan plan, raising concerns about fiscal responsibility and the long-term burden on Nigerians. Obi questioned the transparency and necessity of the borrowing, adding to ongoing national debates around debt, governance and economic sustainability.
Maryam Sanda’s Death Sentence Reinstated
The death sentence of Maryam Sanda, convicted of killing her husband, has been reinstated following legal developments, despite earlier clemency granted by President Bola Tinubu. The case, which has drawn national attention for years, has once again sparked conversations around justice, executive powers and the limits of clemency within Nigeria’s legal system.
TikTok Star Peller Hospitalised After Car Crash During Livestream
TikTok creator Peller was hospitalised after a car crash during a livestream in Lagos. The incident unfolded on Sunday along the Lekki–Epe Expressway while Peller was streaming live and appeared visibly distressed, prompting widespread concern online. Eyewitnesses pulled him from the damaged vehicle and he was taken to a hospital for treatment. Social media discussions around the crash also sparked broader conversations about mental health and the pressures faced by young influencers, though official statements about the cause and his condition are still limited.
Final Thoughts
Last week was a reminder of how fast headlines move ,from politics and power plays to pop culture highs and deeply personal moments playing out in public. While awards were won, stages were shared across continents and political calculations quietly took shape ahead of 2027, the week also forced difficult conversations around leadership, accountability and mental health in the age of constant visibility. As always, the news didn’t just inform, it reflected where we are, what we celebrate, and what we still need to reckon with.
Stay tuned for next week’s roundup because, in Nigeria, the news never sleeps. Follow Lists NG on Facebook, Instagram, X, and TikTok for more.
