Bitcoin Slips From Three-Month Peak as Crypto Rally Loses Steam

Bitcoin retreated from a three-month high on Thursday as the recent rally in the crypto market began to lose momentum, with investors locking in profits after a strong run fueled by easing geopolitical tensions and renewed institutional interest.

The world’s largest cryptocurrency slipped back toward the $81,000 range after climbing above $82,000 earlier in the week, its strongest level since late January. Market analysts said the pullback reflected a broader cooling in market sentiment following several days of aggressive buying across digital assets.

The recent surge had been driven largely by optimism surrounding reports of a possible diplomatic breakthrough between the United States and Iran, which helped improve global risk appetite and boosted demand for speculative assets such as cryptocurrencies. Analysts noted that hopes of easing tensions around the Strait of Hormuz contributed to lower oil price concerns and encouraged investors to return to risk markets.

Despite the latest decline, Bitcoin remains significantly higher than its levels from earlier this year, with institutional inflows into spot Bitcoin exchange-traded funds continuing to provide support for the market. Industry data showed that U.S.-based Bitcoin ETFs attracted billions of dollars in inflows over recent weeks, reinforcing renewed confidence among large-scale investors.

Market observers said the rally began to slow after Bitcoin approached a key technical resistance zone near its 200-day moving average. Traders also pointed to overbought market conditions and rising profit-taking activity as reasons for the pause in momentum.

Other major cryptocurrencies also traded lower, with Ethereum and XRP posting modest losses amid broader market consolidation. Analysts said the crypto market remains highly sensitive to shifts in investor sentiment, macroeconomic developments, and regulatory uncertainty.

While some market strategists believe the recent correction is temporary and could pave the way for another upward move later in the year, others warned that Bitcoin remains vulnerable to renewed volatility if institutional inflows weaken or geopolitical optimism fades.

The cryptocurrency market has experienced sharp swings throughout 2026, with Bitcoin previously suffering steep declines amid concerns over global monetary policy, investor liquidity, and broader market uncertainty. However, recent ETF demand and improving sentiment have helped the digital asset recover some of its losses in recent weeks.

NITDA Raises Alarm Over ‘DeepLoad’ AI Malware Targeting Nigerian Banks, Government Agencies

The National Information Technology Development Agency has issued a critical nationwide cybersecurity alert warning that a dangerous new AI-powered malware known as “DeepLoad” is actively targeting Nigerian government institutions, financial organizations, businesses, and individual internet users.

In an advisory identified as NCA-270406-01, NITDA described DeepLoad as a sophisticated malware strain capable of stealing sensitive financial and personal information while using artificial intelligence-driven techniques to evade detection by conventional antivirus systems.

According to the agency, the malware is being distributed through deceptive social engineering tactics involving fake website error messages that instruct unsuspecting users to paste malicious commands into their computers. Once activated, the malware reportedly installs itself silently, harvests stored credentials and browser data, and compromises sensitive information from infected systems.

NITDA warned that the malware possesses an advanced persistence mechanism capable of reactivating infections even after users believe the threat has been removed. The agency stated that DeepLoad incorporates “a hidden WMI-based persistence mechanism capable of reactivating the infection up to three days after apparent removal.”

The agency noted that the threat poses serious risks to banks, public institutions, critical infrastructure operators, businesses, and citizens who rely on digital platforms for communication and financial transactions. According to the advisory, successful attacks could result in unauthorized access to bank accounts, mobile money services, payment systems, identity theft, and large-scale operational disruptions.

NITDA also raised concerns about potential national security implications if sensitive government networks are compromised by the malware campaign. The agency stressed that organizations must urgently strengthen internal cybersecurity systems and improve staff awareness to prevent successful infiltration.

As part of its emergency recommendations, NITDA warned Nigerians never to paste commands from websites into their computers, emphasizing that “legitimate software never asks for this.” The agency further advised users to avoid opening suspicious files labeled as browser installers from USB devices and to enable two-factor authentication on critical accounts.

For organizations, NITDA recommended immediate activation of enhanced monitoring systems, including PowerShell Script Block Logging on Windows devices, alongside the removal of suspicious browser extensions and the blocking of identified malicious domains linked to the campaign.

The domains specifically identified in the advisory include “holiday-updateservice[.]com,” “forest-entity[.]cc,” and “hell1-kitty[.]cc,” which organizations have been urged to block at firewall and DNS levels.

NITDA further instructed organizations to disconnect affected systems from the internet immediately if compromise is suspected, isolate infected devices, activate incident response teams, and change passwords from clean devices. The agency also reminded organizations of their legal obligation to report cybersecurity incidents within 72 hours.

The warning comes amid growing global concern over increasingly sophisticated cyberattacks powered by artificial intelligence. International cybersecurity reports from ReliaQuest, Infosecurity Magazine, and The Hacker News have also highlighted DeepLoad’s use of AI-generated code and stealth techniques to bypass traditional security systems.

Harry Kane Shifts Focus to DFB-Pokal Final After Bayern’s Champions League Heartbreak

Harry Kane has urged Bayern Munich to channel their Champions League disappointment into a determined push for silverware in the DFB-Pokal final.

The England captain scored a late goal in the second leg against Paris Saint-Germain, but it was not enough as Bayern exited the competition 6-5 on aggregate. The semi-final elimination ended their hopes of European glory this season.

In a message posted on X shortly after the defeat, Kane acknowledged the pain of the exit while immediately pivoting to the remaining opportunity. “Not the night we believed in yesterday. These games come down to moments and unfortunately over the two legs we didn’t take enough of ours,” he wrote.
Kane continued: “Proud to be part of this team and club, the disappointment will be with us for a while but we have to stay focused on finishing the season strong with a final still to play. Thanks for the support as always and can’t wait to see the fans in Berlin!”

Bayern Munich will face VfB Stuttgart in the DFB-Pokal final at Berlin’s Olympiastadion on May 23. The match offers Kane and his teammates a chance to salvage a domestic double, having already wrapped up the Bundesliga title.

The striker’s swift shift in mindset highlights his leadership and professionalism. Despite another prolific campaign — including goals in every Champions League knockout tie — Kane is determined to end the season on a high note rather than dwell on the European exit.

CNN Founder Ted Turner Dies at 87

Ted Turner

Ted Turner, the visionary media mogul who founded CNN and revolutionized global news broadcasting, has died at the age of 87, according to statements from Turner Enterprises and multiple media reports.

Turner, born Robert Edward Turner III, passed away on May 6, 2026, at his home near Tallahassee, Florida. No immediate cause of death was disclosed, though he had previously revealed in 2018 that he was living with Lewy body dementia, a degenerative neurological condition.

Widely regarded as a pioneer of modern television journalism, Turner transformed the media landscape in 1980 when he launched CNN, the world’s first 24-hour cable news network. The innovation fundamentally changed how audiences consume information, introducing continuous, real-time coverage of global events and setting a standard that has since been adopted worldwide.

In a tribute, CNN Worldwide chairman and CEO Mark Thompson described Turner as “an intensely involved and committed leader, intrepid, fearless and always willing to back a hunch,” adding that “he was and always will be the presiding spirit of CNN.”

Turner’s influence extended far beyond CNN. He built a vast media empire through Turner Broadcasting System, pioneering the “superstation” model with WTBS and later expanding into entertainment, sports, and film. His company eventually merged with Time Warner in the 1990s, cementing his place as one of the most influential figures in American media history.

Known for his bold personality and unconventional leadership style, Turner also owned major sports franchises, including the Atlanta Braves baseball team, and played a key role in promoting global sporting events such as the Goodwill Games.

Beyond business, Turner was a prominent philanthropist and environmental advocate. He donated $1 billion to establish the United Nations Foundation and co-founded the Nuclear Threat Initiative, reflecting his long-standing commitment to global security and humanitarian causes.

El-Rufai Remains in Custody as ICPC Opposes Fresh Bail Bid

Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai

The legal battle over the custody of former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, intensified on Tuesday as the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) formally opposed a fresh application seeking his release on bail.

At the resumed hearing before the Kaduna State High Court, defence counsel, Mr. Ubong Akpang, informed the court that a new bail application had been filed, stressing that the matter directly concerns the liberty of his client. He maintained that all required processes had been duly filed and served, adding that the defence was ready to proceed with the hearing.

However, counsel to the ICPC, Mr. Ibrahim Mukhtar, told the court he had only just been served with the defendant’s further affidavit supporting the application and would need time to review the new filings. In light of this development, the presiding judge, Justice D.H. Khobo, adjourned proceedings to May 13, 2026, for the hearing of the fresh bail application.

The latest move by the defence follows an earlier ruling in which the court denied bail to El-Rufai, citing several concerns raised in the prosecution’s counter-affidavit. In that decision, Justice Khobo held that the former governor had failed to respond to new facts introduced by the ICPC, including allegations suggesting a risk of flight due to his influence and resources.

The court also referenced claims of obstruction of lawful arrest at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, refusal to surrender travel documents and electronic devices for investigation, and the possibility of interference with witnesses and evidence. The judge further ruled that bail is discretionary and must align with the broader interests of justice, particularly in cases involving high-profile defendants.

Justice Khobo noted at the time that El-Rufai’s status could potentially hinder ongoing investigations, especially with some suspects still at large. The court also dismissed health-related claims made by the defence as unsubstantiated, ultimately ordering that the defendant remain in ICPC custody while directing an accelerated hearing of the substantive case.

Despite that setback, the defence team has renewed its push for bail, filing a fresh application in an effort to secure the former governor’s release. The ICPC has responded with a counter-affidavit opposing the request, reaffirming its position that the circumstances of the case do not warrant bail at this stage.

The anti-corruption agency reiterated its commitment to due process and the diligent prosecution of corruption-related offences, as the high-stakes case continues to draw public attention ahead of the next court date.

Arsenal Smash 20-Year Champions League Final Jinx with Semi-Final Triumph Over Atletico Madrid

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta celebrates with the players. Credit: Arsenal.com

Arsenal have booked their place in the UEFA Champions League final for the first time in 20 years, defeating Atletico Madrid 1-0 on the night and 2-1 on aggregate in a tense Emirates Stadium showdown on Tuesday evening. Bukayo Saka’s first-half strike proved decisive as Mikel Arteta’s side ended a two-decade wait since their 2006 final appearance.

The Gunners, unbeaten throughout the 2025/26 Champions League campaign with an impressive record of 10 wins and 2 draws entering the tie, controlled much of the second leg. Saka, a homegrown hero, slotted home in the 44th minute to send the Emirates into raptures, capitalizing on Arsenal’s attacking pressure just before the break. Arsenal’s defense, anchored by William Saliba and Gabriel, then stood firm against Atletico’s second-half pushes, including moments of controversy around a potential penalty appeal for Antoine Griezmann.

Bukayo Saka nets the winner in the 44th minute. Credit: Arsenal.com
This victory marks Arsenal’s second Champions League final in club history. They will head to the Puskás Aréna in Budapest on May 30 to face the winner of the other semi-final between Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich.

The first leg in Madrid had finished 1-1, with both sides converting penalties in a tightly contested affair. Arsenal’s progression underscores their remarkable European run this season, having topped the league phase and navigated challenging knockout ties with authority.

Arteta’s men now stand on the brink of a potential historic double, sitting top of the Premier League with 76 points from 35 games, five points clear of Manchester City, with three fixtures remaining.

Speaking before the second leg, Arteta emphasized the hunger within his squad: “We will prepare as best as possible… and that we go out there like beasts and enjoy the moment and go for it. Let’s go and grab it.” He added that reaching this stage represented a “massive privilege” and urged his players to seize the opportunity.

Arsenal’s path to the final has been built on defensive solidity and clinical moments, breaking multiple historical barriers along the way. For a club that last lifted the Premier League title in 2004, this campaign under Arteta offers a genuine shot at ending long-standing droughts on multiple fronts.
The focus now shifts to Budapest, where Arsenal will aim to go one step further than in 2006 and claim their first Champions League crown. Fans and neutrals alike will watch closely as the Gunners chase European glory.

High Blood Pressure Emergencies: What to Do Immediately 

By Taiwo Umar

Health experts are raising fresh concerns over the widespread circulation of misleading advice on how to respond to heart-related emergencies, particularly in cases linked to high blood pressure, warning that some popular claims could do more harm than good if followed during a crisis.

According to medical guidance contained in widely shared public health information, a heart attack occurs when blood flow to the heart is blocked, often due to a buildup of fatty, cholesterol-containing deposits that form plaques in the arteries. When these plaques rupture, they can trigger blood clots that obstruct circulation, leading to potentially fatal outcomes if urgent care is not provided.

Medical professionals emphasize that early recognition of warning signs—especially in people with hypertension—is critical. Symptoms described by experts include chest discomfort, unusual fatigue, shortness of breath, lightheadedness, and pain that may feel like a strained muscle in the chest or upper back. These symptoms can sometimes be subtle, leading to what is often described as a “silent” heart attack.

However, experts are pushing back strongly against viral claims suggesting that individuals can save themselves during a heart attack by repeatedly coughing, a practice often referred to as “cough CPR.” While the shared advisory claims that “a breath and a cough must be repeated about every two seconds… until help arrives,” medical authorities caution that this technique is not a reliable or recommended emergency response for the general public.

Instead, the correct course of action when someone experiences symptoms related to severe high blood pressure or a suspected heart attack is immediate medical intervention. Health professionals stress that patients or bystanders should call emergency services right away, ensure the individual is seated or lying down safely, and avoid delaying professional care.

The advisory also references natural remedies such as cayenne pepper and arnica as potential emergency interventions. While these claims state that such substances can “strengthen and speed up heart action,” medical experts warn there is no credible clinical evidence supporting their effectiveness in treating acute cardiovascular events. Relying on unverified remedies in place of urgent medical care can significantly increase the risk of complications or death.

In preventive care discussions, supplements such as Lipotropic Adjunct are often marketed for cardiovascular support, with claims that they help reduce cholesterol and support heart function. While such products may play a role in general wellness when used appropriately, experts stress they are not substitutes for prescribed medication or emergency treatment for high blood pressure or heart attacks.

The broader medical consensus remains clear: managing high blood pressure through regular monitoring, prescribed medication, healthy diet, and lifestyle changes is the most effective way to reduce the risk of heart attacks. In emergency situations, rapid access to professional healthcare—not home remedies or unverified techniques—remains the decisive factor in survival.

Senate Sets Up Joint Panel, Heads to South Africa Over Xenophobia Crisis

Nigeria’s Senate has resolved to set up a joint ad hoc committee with the House of Representatives to address the rising wave of xenophobic attacks against Nigerians in South Africa, signaling a shift toward intensified diplomatic engagement rather than economic retaliation.

The proposed committee, to be led by the leadership of the National Assembly of Nigeria, is expected to embark on a fact-finding and diplomatic mission to South Africa. Lawmakers said the delegation will engage directly with the Parliament of South Africa to formally convey Nigeria’s “strong displeasure” over the reported attacks and explore lasting solutions to the crisis.

As part of the broader response, the Senate also plans to write to the Speaker of the South African Parliament while inviting Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs to brief lawmakers on ongoing diplomatic engagements and their outcomes. The move comes amid mounting concern over the safety of Nigerians abroad and calls for more structured bilateral action.

The upper chamber further endorsed a resolution by Simon Lalong urging a review of agreements reached during the 2019 Nigeria–South Africa bilateral meeting, with lawmakers pushing for full implementation of previously agreed safeguards.

Tensions rose briefly during deliberations when Adams Oshiomhole proposed the revocation of operational licences of South African companies, including MTN and MultiChoice. However, the proposal was declined on procedural grounds, underscoring divisions within the chamber on how best to respond.

In his remarks, Senate President Godswill Akpabio emphasized diplomacy over economic retaliation, noting that engagement remains the preferred pathway. He stated that the Senate views the attacks as serious and would “address the matter with the urgency it deserves.”

The resolutions followed a motion of urgent national importance moved by Bassey, titled: “Intensifying Xenophobic Persecution of Nigerians in South Africa and Ghana: A Call for Urgent National, Diplomatic and Humanitarian Action to Defend the Dignity, Safety and Honour of Nigerian Citizens.”

Debate over the motion also exposed procedural disagreements, as Adamu Aliero called for a closed-door session, a move immediately opposed by Abdul Ningi and other lawmakers who insisted on open deliberations.

Lawmakers across party lines expressed deep concern not only about physical attacks but also the growing climate of fear, psychological trauma, and what they described as the systematic profiling of Nigerians abroad based on nationality. The Senate concluded proceedings by observing a minute of silence in honour of Nigerians who have lost their lives in xenophobic incidents in South Africa.

Security Forces Smash Terror Ring, Arrest Informant, Rescue Abductees in Northeast

Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have recorded fresh operational gains across Nigeria’s North-East, arresting suspected terrorists and collaborators, rescuing kidnapped civilians, and recovering explosive devices in a series of coordinated offensives spanning Yobe State and Adamawa State.

In one of the operations, troops deployed at Ngamdu apprehended two suspected terrorists identified as Haruna Adamu, 32, and Ibrahim Adamu, 20, during ongoing engagements in the town. Preliminary investigations indicate that both suspects fled from Zamfara State into Yobe. Items recovered from them include a smartphone, a keypad phone, a power bank, an identification card, suspected illicit substances, charms, and other personal effects. Military authorities confirmed that the suspects have been handed over for further investigation.

Suspected terrorist informants in custody of the troops

In a related development, troops of the 254 Battalion under Sector 2 arrested a suspected Boko Haram/ISWAP informant, Ali Muhammad, at Ngamdu Market. The suspect, who had reportedly been on a watchlist, was found with cash, a mobile phone, identification documents, charms, a knife, and a notebook containing phone numbers believed to be linked to terrorist contacts. Security officials described the arrest as a significant disruption to the intelligence network supporting insurgent activities in the area.

Elsewhere, troops conducting a night operation in the Mubi general area of Adamawa State arrested five suspected drug peddlers. The suspects were found in possession of various items, including ammunition, and are currently in custody as investigations continue to determine possible links to broader criminal or terrorist networks.

In a separate rescue operation in Madagali Local Government Area, troops working alongside members of the Civilian Joint Task Force responded to a distress call on a kidnapping incident. The joint team successfully rescued two children, Barnabas Apagu, 12, and Ruth Apagu, 10, while efforts are ongoing to secure the release of other victims still believed to be in captivity.

Further reinforcing the scale of the operations, troops deployed in the Kukareta area of Yobe State recovered a hand grenade suspected to have been abandoned by fleeing terrorists. The explosive device was secured in line with standard safety procedures, preventing potential harm to civilians and security personnel.

The Military High Command, while commending the troops for their “gallantry and sacrifices,” urged them to sustain the momentum of ongoing operations. It also reassured the public of its “unwavering commitment to sustaining offensive operations aimed at degrading terrorist capabilities, protecting lives and property, and restoring enduring peace and economic stability across the North East region.”

Troops Neutralise Terrorists in Zamfara, Recover Weapons in Fresh Push

Troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA have intensified offensive operations against terrorist elements in Zamfara State, recording fresh gains with the neutralisation of fighters and recovery of arms during coordinated clearance missions across multiple communities.

The latest operations, conducted in the early hours of Monday, targeted identified enclaves in key locations including Maikwanuga village in Talata Mafara Local Government Area, as well as Aljumma, Gidan Dawa, Magami Didi, and Tungar Magaji villages in Maradun Local Government Area. Military sources said the coordinated assault forms part of a sustained campaign to dislodge armed groups operating within the Bagega–Sunke forest corridor.

During the advance into Tungar Magaji, troops made contact with fleeing terrorists and engaged them with what was described as “overwhelming firepower,” leading to the neutralisation of two insurgents while others escaped under pressure. No casualties were reported among the troops involved in the operation.

A subsequent sweep of the area led to the recovery of one AK-47 rifle with a loaded 30-round magazine, along with a motorcycle believed to have been used for mobility by the armed group. The recovered items are now in military custody as part of ongoing intelligence exploitation.

The military said the operation underscores its continued resolve to dismantle terrorist strongholds and restrict the movement of armed groups across vulnerable rural corridors. It noted that the offensive is part of a broader strategy aimed at restoring security and enabling displaced communities to return to normal life.

Authorities reiterated that operations will continue with sustained momentum, stressing that troops remain committed to protecting lives and property within their area of responsibility. They also called on residents to support ongoing efforts by providing timely and credible information to security agencies.

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