Here are the top news stories across Nigeria for the morning of Saturday, March 21, 2026:
Dangote Refinery Hikes Petrol Price to ₦1,275 Per Litre
The Dangote Petroleum Refinery has adjusted its petrol price upward for the fifth time this month, raising the ex-depot price to ₦1,275 per litre effective today. The refinery cited the escalating “Iran-United States-Israel war” and global crude oil volatility, with Brent crude surging to $112 per barrel. Marketers warn that retail pump prices could jump to between ₦1,330 and ₦1,400 in many parts of the country by Monday.
Police Arrest Five Over Ozoro Festival Sexual Assaults
The Delta State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of the primary organizer and four other suspects linked to the viral videos of women being stripped and assaulted during a traditional festival in Ozoro. The State Government condemned the acts as “barbaric and unacceptable,” while the Federal Government has officially ordered a swift crackdown on all participants. ActionAid Nigeria and other civil rights groups are demanding that the suspects be prosecuted to the full extent of the law to serve as a deterrent.
Tinubu Returns to Lagos, Prays for Peace at Dodan Barracks
Following his historic state visit to the United Kingdom, President Bola Tinubu arrived in Lagos on Friday to observe Eid-el-Fitr. Speaking to reporters after prayers at the Dodan Barracks, the President urged Nigerians to report “suspicious movements of people” to security agencies, stating: “The stability, peace, and security of the nation is not just one man’s responsibility. We are all involved.” He also assured the nation that the economy has “navigated its way out of the dark tunnel of economic uncertainty.”
UK-Nigeria Deal Fuels Speculation Over Senator Ekweremadu
The newly signed migration and prisoner return agreement between Nigeria and the UK has triggered widespread speculation regarding the possible repatriation of former Deputy Senate President Ike Ekweremadu. While the deal focuses on “Foreign National Offenders,” legal analysts are debating whether the “UK Letters” system or existing prisoner transfer protocols could be applied to high-profile cases. The UK Home Office maintained that the pact is aimed at ensuring “visa overstayers and foreign criminals are removed far more easily.”
Oba of Benin’s Wife Hits Back at Palace Chiefs
A internal crisis is brewing in the Benin Kingdom as Queen Ewuare has publicly challenged palace chiefs over their handling of a recent visit by influencer Habeeb Adelaja. The Queen described the chiefs’ claims that the visit was unauthorized as a “misrepresentation of facts,” leading to reported suspensions of several high-ranking palace officials.
