Nigerian newspapers headlines for today, 21st Fabuary 2026

10 Things To Know from the top Nigerian newspaper headlines for today, Saturday, 21st February, 2026:

1. Wike Rallies APC Supporters Ahead Of FCT Polls

Nyesom Wike urged residents of Abuja to vote for the APC chairmanship candidate in AMAC, Christopher Zakka Maikalangu, promising reciprocal support. He told voters:
“I came here to tell you, if you do for me, I’ll do for you…”
FCT residents will elect six Area Council Chairmen and 62 councillors.

2. Tinubu Calls For Peaceful Elections

Bola Ahmed Tinubu appealed to voters, security agencies and INEC officials to ensure orderly conduct during elections in the FCT, Kano and Rivers States. He assured Nigerians of the Federal Government’s commitment to free and credible polls.

3. DSS To Arraign El-Rufai February 25

Nasir El-Rufai will be arraigned before the Federal High Court in Abuja over alleged cybercrime and national security breaches. The DSS accused him of unlawfully intercepting communications of National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu.

4. ADC Raises Alarm Over Alleged Plot Against Amaechi

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Rivers State claims there is a plan to arrest former Minister of Transportation, Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi. The party says opposition figures are being targeted.

5. Osuntokun Urges Nigerians To Hold INEC Accountable

Former presidential aide Akin Osuntokun asked citizens to demand transparency from INEC following the signing of the Electoral Act (Amendment) 2026. He said:
“Whatever it is the case, at the end of the day, it is up to Nigerians to hold INEC to account.”

6. Court Declares Sowore’s ‘Wanted’ Status Illegal

A Federal High Court in Lagos ruled that declaring Omoyele Sowore wanted in 2025 was unlawful. The court awarded ₦30 million in damages against the Nigeria Police Force and other officials.

7. Google Introduces Custom News Preference Feature

Google has rolled out a feature allowing users to choose preferred news platforms in their “Top Stories” section. Naija News encouraged readers to select it as a trusted source ahead of the 2027 elections.

8. Police Arrest Actor Stanley Ontop

Nollywood actor Ajemba Stanley Chibueze, popularly known as Stanley Ontop, was arrested on his university campus over a petition linked to alleged defamation involving actor Frederick Leonard.

9. Ogun Police Detain TikToker Mirabel

The Ogun State Police Command confirmed the arrest of TikToker Mirabel over alleged false rape claims. Police said investigations are ongoing to determine the next line of action.

10. Former Napoli Director Denies Racism Claims

Victor Osimhen alleged he was treated unfairly at SSC Napoli, describing his experience as degrading. However, former sporting director Mauro Meluso denied racism claims, insisting the club “abhors any form of racism.”