Governor Radda Suffers Minor Accident on Daura-Katsina Road, No Serious Injuries Sustained
Katsina State Governor Malam Dikko Umaru Radda was involved in a minor road accident this evening along the Daura - Katsina Road, while carrying out his official duties in service to the people of Katsina State.
We are pleased to confirm that the Governor is in good health and stable condition, with no serious injuries sustained.
Governor Radda remains in high spirits and expresses his gratitude to Almighty Allah for His protection, as well as Katsina citizens and well-wishers for their prayers and concern.
Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Katsina State
NDLEA Arrests Wanted Drug Kingpin, Intercepts Consignments In Cereal Packs
Operatives of a special operations unit of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have arrested a wanted 60-year-old drug kingpin, Okpara Paul Chigozie, ending seven years of evading the long arm of the law, even as he was caught attempting to ship large quantities of cocaine and methamphetamine to the Southeast and other parts of the country.
Okpara who has been on the wanted list of NDLEA since 2019 was eventually nabbed at his hideout at 72 Micheal Ojo Street, Isheri in Ojo area of Lagos state on Sunday 13th July 2025 following the interception of some of his consignments at 5:45am same day at Ilasamaja along Apapa-Oshodi expressway. In the early morning operation, a team of NDLEA officers acting on credible intelligence arrested one of Okparas couriers, 51-year-old Achebe Kenneth Nnamdi while heading to Onitsha, Anambra state in a white Toyota Sienna vehicle.
The agencys sniffer dogs were subsequently brought in to search the vehicle after which 7.6 kilograms of cocaine and 900 grams of methamphetamine were found hidden in body compartments of the space bus. A follow up operation was promptly carried out at Okparas hideout in Isheri where additional 1.8kg cocaine and 1.3kg methamphetamine were recovered from his residence.
At[b] the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) Ikeja Lagos, NDLEA operatives in a joint operation with Aviation Security personnel of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) on Wednesday 16th July recovered 7,790 pills of tramadol and rohypnol from the luggage of an Italy-bound passenger, Omoregie Nice Uyiosa. The suspect who was going to Italy via Istanbul on Turkish Airlines flight claimed he purchased the drugs himself, hoping to sell them in Italy at higher prices. [/b]
In another arrest at the Lagos airport, NDLEA operatives at the export shed on Thursday 17th July intercepted 17 parcels of skunk, a strain of cannabis, weighing 1.70kg concealed in packs of popular cereal, Golden Morn, going to Pakistan as part of a consolidated cargo. A suspect, Chioba Robert Uchenna who presented the consignment for shipment was arrested.
In Lagos, NDLEA operatives on Saturday 19th July raided Sarah Sam Hotels located at 115 Ogudu road in Kosofe where different party drugs are being distributed and sold. The raid followed credible intelligence and surveillance which confirmed a suspect Obayemi Oyetade as the arrowhead of the drug network. At the time of the operation, 1.30kg Chocolate Cannabis, 900grams of gummies and 22.9grams of skunk were recovered from Obayemis room in the hotel, which is a 20-room facility run as a family business, housing his mother and siblings. Other items recovered from the hotel include three vehicles.
Three suspects: Onyeka Madu, Monday Nwadishi and Emmanuel Madu were on Saturday 19th July, arrested during an intelligence-led raid at Narayi High Cost area of Chikun LGA, Kaduna State, where 742.866 kilograms of skunk, and Colorado, a synthetic strain of cannabis were seized from them. In Kano, Lawan Rabiu was nabbed with 36,000 pills of tramadol along Danbatta-Kazaure road, on Wednesday 16th July.
While a total of 25,000 pills of tramadol and exol-5 were recovered from a suspect Aliyu Abubakar, at Gombe roundabout on Friday 18th July, the duo of Mohammed Adamu and Furaira Idris were arrested same day with 49 blocks of compressed skunk that weighed 29kg at Kwadom, Yemaltu Deba LGA, Gombe state.
In Borno, NDLEA officers on patrol along Baga road, Maiduguri, on Saturday 19th July intercepted 74,360 pills of opioids in a Mercedes Benz C180 car marked GUB 409 AA and arrested Audu Modu, 44, in connection with the seizure, while in Bayelsa state, a 63-year-old grandma Akuna Nelson was on Thursday 17th July arrested at Osiri area of Yenagoa in connection with the seizure of 163 litres of skuchies.
Four suspects: Ikechukw Abugu, 42; Sunday Ani, 18; Chukwu Christian, 46; and Emmanuel Olisakwe, 55, were on Thursday 17th July arrested by NDLEA operatives along Okene-Lokoja highway, Kogi state in connection with the seizure of 2kg methamphetamine recovered during a search of their vehicle coming from Onitsha, Anambra state to Minna, Niger state.
In Abia state, NDLEA officers on Monday 14th July raided the base of a notorious drug dealer, Nduka Obi, 39, at 4 Niger street, Ugwa road, Aba, where various quantities of tramadol, cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine and a total of N736,000 monetary exhibit were recovered from him. While a total of 45,000 pills of tramadol were seized from a suspect Chisom Okpalaeke, 30, by NDLEA operatives on patrol along Onitsha - Enugu expressway, Enugu state on Wednesday 16th July, officers of the Taraba state command of the agency same day apprehended the duo of Ngwokwoka Thomas, 44, and Mohammed Audu, 44 with 10,000 caps of tramadol and a gram of cannabis at Dan Anacha, Gassol LGA.
The War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) social advocacy activities by NDLEA Commands equally continued across the country in the past week. Some of them include: WADA sensitization lecture delivered to students and staff of Government Day Secondary School, Badeggi, Niger; Dah Model Academy, Ngurore, Adamawa; Icon Academy, Nsukka, Enugu; Government Technical College, Nkpor, Anambra and Madrisatul Tahfizul Qur'an Wa Ulumud Deen, Jaba Fagge, Kano state; among others.
While commending the officers and men of MMIA, SOU, Lagos, Kaduna, Osun, Bayelsa, Gombe, Borno, Abia, Kogi, Enugu, and Taraba Commands of the Agency for the arrests and seizures of the past week, Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd) also praised their counterparts in all the commands across the country for intensifying a fair balance between their drug supply reduction and drug demand reduction efforts.
Femi Babafemi Director, Media & Advocacy NDLEA Headquarters Abuja Sunday 20th July 2025
The Edo State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Abuja, on Wednesday, declined to nullify the election of Governor Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress, APC.
In a unanimous decision, a three-member panel of the tribunal led by Justice Wilfred Kpochi, equally refused to order the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, to conduct a fresh governorship poll in Edo state.
The tribunal held that the prayer, which was contained in a petition that was brought before it by the Accord Party, AP, and its gubernatorial candidate in the state, could not be granted as the petitioners failed to discharge the burden of proof placed on them by the law.
While striking out the petition for being incompetent, the panel noted that whereas the petitioners alleged that the governorship election held in the state on September 21, 2024, was invalid by reason of corrupt practices and non-compliance with provisions of the Electoral Act, they, however, failed to adduce any credible evidence to establish the allegation.
According to the tribunal, while the petitioners made “general and sweeping allegations” against the outcome of the election, they failed to bring particulars of exact polling units or wards where the alleged widespread rigging and non-compliance occured.
Describing some of the averments in the petition as “vague”, the tribunal held that allegations against governor Okpebholo’s victory, were not substantiated.
The tribunal said it found merit in all the preliminary objections that were filed to challenge the competence of the petition.
It will be recalled that while the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, declared that Okpebholo of the APC secured a total of 291, 667 votes to defeat his closest rival, Ighodalo of the PDP, who got a total of 247, 655 votes, candidate of the AP scored a total of 252 votes.
Dissatisfied with the result, AP and its candidate lodged the petition, insisting that the election was fraught with manifest irregularities they said included multiple thumbprinting, violence, intimidation and harassment of voters, as well as alleged failure to use the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System, BVAS, machines in various polling units in the state.
The Justice Kpochi-led panel held that the petition did not disclose any reasonable cause of action.
The tribunal had earlier dismissed another petition the Action Alliance, AA, also filed to nullify governor Okpebholo’s election.
With the two cases gone, the panel is set to decide the joint petition the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, and its candidate, Asuerinme Ighodalo, filed to be declared authentic winners of the disputed governorship contest.
PRESIDENT TINUBU APPROVES TENURE EXTENSION FOR COMPTROLLER-GENERAL OF IMMIGRATION KEMI NANNA NANDAP
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved an extension of Mrs. Kemi Nanna Nandap's tenure as the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) through December 31, 2026.
Mrs Nandap began her career in the Nigeria Immigration Service on October 9, 1989.
President Tinubu appointed her as Comptroller-General on March 1, 2024, to serve till August 31, 2025.
Under her leadership, the Nigeria Immigration Service has witnessed significant advancements in its core mandate, with notable improvements in border management, modernisation of immigration processes and national security measures.
President Tinubu commended the Comptroller-General for her exemplary leadership and urged her to continue dedicating herself to the Service's strategic priorities, which align with his administration's Renewed Hope Agenda.
The President reaffirmed his administration's commitment to supporting the Nigeria Immigration Service in fulfilling its mandate to protect Nigeria's territorial integrity and promote safe, legal, and orderly migration.
Bayo Onanuga Special Adviser to the President (Information & Strategy) March 31, 2025
Dr. Aisha Achimugu, the Managing Director and CEO of Felak Concept Group, has reaffirmed her commitment to transparency, integrity, and due process in the wake of allegations leveled against her by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
In a statement signed by Bodex Hungbo, PR/Head of Media, and posted on her Instagram handle, Achimugu expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support she has received from friends, family, colleagues, and concerned citizens within and outside Nigeria.
“Over the past few days, we have been inundated with calls, messages, and visits from friends, families, colleagues, and concerned citizens. The outpouring of support, prayers, and encouragement has been profoundly moving and humbling.”
She emphasized her unwavering belief in the rule of law and due process, assuring the public that her business dealings have always been law-abiding and ethical.
“As a responsible citizen and entrepreneur, Dr. Aisha remains a firm believer in the rule of law and due process and will never do otherwise. We trust that these principles and justice will prevail as this matter unfolds. Our business practices have always been grounded in transparency, integrity, and respect for our nation’s laws.”
Achimugu also reassured her business partners, family, and professional associates of her commitment to cooperating fully with the necessary authorities while maintaining her dedication to national development.
“To our valued business partners, families, professional associates, and well-wishers worldwide, please be assured that she is fully committed to all processes involved as a responsible and law-abiding citizen who has contributed so much to the growth of our nation as well as being a national asset.”
The statement ended with a message of goodwill, acknowledging Mother’s Day celebrations and extending Eid Mubarak greetings to the Muslim community.
The EFCC had earlier declared Aisha Achimugu wanted over allegations of criminal conspiracy and money laundering. The anti-graft agency stated that she is being sought in connection with an ongoing investigation.
Achimugu, who heads Felak Concept Group, has assured the public of her commitment to resolving the matter through lawful means while maintaining her reputation as a law-abiding entrepreneur.
Florence, in an emotional interview on Friday, expressed deep concern over her husband’s whereabouts following his resignation.
She revealed that after his arrival in Abuja, he called to confirm his safe landing.
However, her fears grew after seeing an online interview with him, which she found suspicious.
“I said, ‘That is not my husband. That is not my husband,” she recalled.
She shared her desperate attempts to contact him, saying, “I sent him a message: ‘Are you under duress? Have they kidnapped you? Talk to me now. Why are you not responding?’ But he didn’t reply. His numbers are not going through. Nigerians, help me!”
Florence raised the alarm after Nwaeke publicly accused Governor Siminalayi Fubara of orchestrating the bombing of the Rivers State House of Assembly in 2023 to prevent his impeachment.
PRESS BRIEFING BY THE COMMISSIONER OF POLICE, KANO STATE POLICE COMMAND, CP IBRAHIM ADAMU BAKORI, PhD, sfipma, mnim, mnips, masis ON THE BAN OF ALL DURBAR ACTIVITIES DURING THE 2025 EID-EL-FITR SALLAH FESTIVITIES, ON FRIDAY, 28TH MARCH, 2025 AT BOMPAI POLICE HEADQUARTERS KANO
Ladies and Gentlemen of the Press;
I welcome you to Bompai, the Headquarters of Kano State Police Command, I am to intimate you on the security preparedness of the Command in liaison with other security agencies ahead of the 2025 Eid-El-Fitr Sallah festivities.
2. The Kano State Police Command congratulates Muslim faithfuls and all law-abiding residents of the State ahead of the 2025 Eid-El-Fitr Sallah festivities. In pursuit of safe & secure celebration, and to sustain the relative peace & public order in the State, the Command in liaison with other security agencies, having obtained and assessed the security situations in the State, especially the rising tension and uncertainties around the Durbar activities, particularly, the tendency to plunge the State into anarchy, made necessary consultations with the Kano State Government, the parties, and other critical stakeholders.
3. As part of collective commitment to sustaining the peace and security, a ban has been placed on all Durbar activities throughout the State during the 2025 Eid-El-Fitr Sallah celebrations. This decision was made after consultations with relevant security stakeholders following credible intelligence reports indicating orchestrated plan by recruited miscreants and their sponsors to use Durbar as proxy to undermine security and public order.
4. On this note, Worshippers are advised to conduct their normal Eid prayers at designated Eid praying grounds, as traditionally done in the past, as adequate security deployments have been concluded to guarantee the peace and public safety. Worshippers going to Eid praying grounds are advised to adhere to the following security tips;
i. No carrying of unnecessary objects that may trigger suspicion or apprehension ii. No horse riding (Kilisa), Car-racing, reckless and dangerous driving iii. Parents and guardians should caution their children against being used by subversive elements as the Police and other security agencies are determined to enforce the law. iv. Members of the public are warned to desist from any act or conduct that may likely cause breach of the peace or breakdown of law and order.
5. As we celebrate this joyous occasion, let us remember that peace is paramount. We must prioritize peace above everything else, putting aside our differences and coming together as law abiding citizen for the progress of the State and the nation at large.
6. The Command encourages continued collaboration and cooperation from all stakeholders to build a safer and secure environment. Residents are urged to report any suspicious activities to the nearest Police Station, security formations or through the following emergency contact numbers:
- 08032419754 - 08123821575, and - 09029292926
7. In the alternative, residents can log in to the NPF Rescue Me Application available in the Play Store or contact the Command through its social media platforms:
- Facebook, X, Instagram, Tiktok: Kano State Police Command.
- EBHA ADOPTS CREATION OF MORE LOCAL GOVERNMENTS IN EBONYI STATE
Ebonyi State House of Assembly has adopted a referendum for creation of more twelve Local Government Areas in the State in addition to the already existing thirteen LGAs as a measure of bringing Government closer to the people and thereby ameliorate their sufferings.
The adoption of the referendum which gained the unanimous endorsement of members of the Assembly took place during the plenary at the State Legislative Complex, Nkaliki Road Abakaliki.
The proposed new Local Government Areas includes; Ikwo South and Ikwo North from Ikwo LGA, Ekumenyi from Abakaliki LGA, Ebyia from Izzi LGA and Ndiagbo from Edda LGA while Ishielu South is to be carved from the existing Ishielu LGA in the State. Others included Akaeze, Ukaba, and Effium from Ivo, Onicha and Ohaukwu LGAs respectively. Ezza-South, Ezza-North and Afikpo LGAs are expected to produce Izzikworo, Amohai and Imoha Local Government Areas.
The referendum when gazetted would bring a total number of LGAs in the State to twenty-five and expected guarantee development and reduce economic crisis, and equally bridge the perceived imbalance in LGA distribution in consideration of the landmass and population density in each Local Government Area.
The motion for the adoption of the request was moved by the Chief Whip of the House and Member, representing Edda West State Constituency, Hon Prince Nkemka Okoro-Onuma and was seconded by a Member representing Ikwo North State Constituency, Hon Ifeanyi Nwakpu.
During the plenary, a bill for a law to establish Ebonyi State Diversity, Equity and Inclusion commission passed first reading.
Theophilus Ifeanyi Igwe, Chief Press Secretary to the Rt. Hon. Speaker. March 25, 2025.
Six years and counting, and what do they see? A love untamed, wild, and free. Regina, my fire, my sweetest delight, Through every storm, you’ve held me tight.
Not just vows whispered in candlelit air, But a fortress built on love laid bare. No staged perfection, no hollow display, Just two hearts that chose to stay.
This morning, feeling bold, and true, I sent you a message, out of the blue: "Will you marry me?" a reckless play, Your laughter spilled like golden rays.
"Hahahahaha! Always! The biggest YES!" Oh, my queen, you love me so truly Should I gather the elders, pay the price? For you, I’d do it all anew!
Love Unshaken, Unbreakable
They whisper of love in measured tones, As if hearts are caged, made of stone. But ours, Regina, is fierce and wild, A dance of fire, Gods’ own child.
Some claim faith but live in disguise, Preaching devotion with wandering eyes. Yet here we stand, bare and true, No lies to hide, no games to rue.
A good man monogamous or not, brings peace to the home, keeps it hot. Better to love with honesty bold, Than sell a dream wrapped in fool’s gold.
Rumours Can’t Shake Royalty
Ah, the gossips, hungry and sly, Spinning their tales, their desperate cry. "His arrest is coming!" but who is he? Even they don’t know, it’s comedy!
And Regina left? Oh, what a tale, When she’s right here, steady as hail. Wrapped in love, in laughter’s glow, Rocking our babies, watching them grow.
Their lies will fade, their voices dim, Yet here we stand unmoved, untrimmed. For love like ours, built on steel, Doesn’t break, doesn’t kneel.
Let’s Set the Record Straight
✅ Still standing, still thriving, unshaken, supreme. ✅ Two beautiful sons, love’s sweetest dream. ✅ No rumoured child outside, That ship never sailed, Let them retire that story, tired and stale.
A divorcee? A non-virgin? Not mine to marry My standards stand, untouched, unfazed. Some may cry, some may curse, But my love, my life, my rules come first.
Justice Is Serve With a Smile
To the faceless gossip, the shadow behind a keypad, Your fifteen minutes are on rewind. A bounty stands on your trail, ten million strong, Tick-tock, tick-tock you won’t run for long.
Enjoy your fame, your fleeting day, Truth will rise, as lies decay. My name is mine, my path is clear, Forward, onward, year by year.
And Here’s the Cherry on Top…
Just when they thought they had their say, Baby number three is on the way! A new heartbeat, a love so grand, Another blessing in my hand.
Let them talk, let them guess, While we live, while we bless. For at the end, when curtains close, It’s us, my love, that victory knows.
Because love, true love, does not sway, It roars, it reigns, come what may.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Senator Ishaku Abbo, Senator Aishatu Binani, and some members of the All Progressives Congress are currently holding a coalition meeting in Yola, the Adamawa State capital.
Atiku, who was the Peoples Democratic Party presidential candidate in the 2023 election, arrived at Yola International Airport in his private jet at 12:48 p.m.
He was received by Senator Abbo, after which his convoy proceeded to the American University of Nigeria Hotel, where the meeting is taking place.
A close aide to Adamawa APC governorship candidate, Senator Binani, confirmed to PUNCH Online that she is part of the coalition but could not disclose details of the meeting.
“Since you see me here, it is clear that my principal is among the team leaders. She is engaged at the moment, but at the next meeting, you will see her,” the aide, who declined to be named, said.
Did The Supreme Court Justice Accompany Wike To UNICAL? - Odinkalu
Emmanuel Agim - 1st left in the pic on the right (unless I am mistaken) was the @SupremeCourtNg Justice who wrote the judgment of 28 Feb 2025 leading to the #SoE in Rivers State. Did he accompany @GovWike to @Unical1975 for this event? Supreme Court justice is now an accessory?!
Yesterday, the #SupremeJustice received an honorary doctorate degree from @Unical1975. Was he accompanied by a Justice of @SupremeCourtNg who has recently been handing him improbable judgments like candies....?!
Mass exodus has hit the All Progressives Congress, APC, in Kaduna State following the resignation of the immediately past governor, Naira El-Rufai from the party.
Several resignation letters sighted by DAILY POST on Monday showed that party faithful believed to be supporters of El-Rufai are leaving the ruling party in droves.
This comes hours after El-Rufai made it public that he has defected to the Social Democratic Party, SDP.
In the same manner, former commissioners under El-Rufai tendered their resignations from the party.
Former Commissioner for Local Government, Ja’afaru Ibrahim Sani and Human Services and Social Development, Hajiya Hafsat Mohammed Baba have all submitted their resignation letters to the party’s respective wards chairmen on Monday.
The resignation of Sani reads in parts, “With the hatred and disdain shown to us by the leadership of the party we worked hard to nurture, it has become compelling to seek another platform in our desire to bring development and prosperity to our dear people.
“Consequently, after a deep retrospection, re-evaluation, and consultation with key stakeholders in Anchau, Kubau LGA, and Kaduna State, I write to inform you of my decision to withdraw my membership from the APC with immediate effect.
“As I move on, I remain grateful to you and to all members of the APC, as well as the electorates in the Ward, Kubau Local Government Area, and the State for the support rendered to me as Chairman of the APC Stakeholders, Kubau LGA. I recall with a feeling of fulfillment the unprecedented electoral victories the party recorded in previous general elections in the ward and the local government area. The historic feat will remain indelible in the history of party politics in the local government area.
“Accept the assurances of my regards at all times.
“Enclosed herewith is my temporary membership registration card for your Ja’afaru Ibrahim Sani necessary action”.
Also, the letter from Hafsat Baba partly reads: “The Chairman may note that I came into the negotiations to form the APC as the incumbent, and hence, legacy National Woman Leader of the defunct Action Congress of Nigeria. We joined the merger to entrench democratic order and justice to the political space in the country which was in dire need of a new political and governing direction.
“However, the party has lost its sense of direction and purpose and has deviated from its founding principles of justice, peace and unity. As an ardent proponent and follower of these principles, continued association with the party as it is currently constituted is against my principles (Aqida).
“Further actions and political decisions will follow as myself and like-minds deem appropriate and as may keep us on our founding – and still extant- principles of Justice and Political order”.
However, reacting, Kaduna APC said it was not losing sleep over El-Rufai’s defection.
Nigerian Army has renamed the Ikeja Military Cantonment in honour of the late Chief of the Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja.
The Cantonment is renamed ‘T. A. Lagbaja Cantonment’.
Present at the event is the Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Gen. Christopher Musa and other service chiefs.
This appeal SC/CV/1071/ 2024: GOV of Rivers State v Rivers State House of Assembly & Ors that came up today at the Supreme Court has become purely academic.
The case leading to this appeal was before James Omotosho as SUIT NO. FHC/ABJ/CS/1613/2023
It was filed on the 29th day of November 2023.
SUIT NO. FHC/ABJ/CS/1613/2023 pertains to the 2024 budget, which is no longer alive, the monies appropriated therein having been judiciously spent for the benefit of the good people of Rivers State
The 2024 budget became spent on the 31st December of 2024 fiscal year.
The appeal is of no useful purpose in this year 2025, which has its own budget.
The only reasonable thing left to do in the circumstances was to withdraw the appeal and have it dismissed.
It would be most unwise to belabour the Honourable Court with academic appeals without any practical or utilitarian value.
It is important to note that after Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/1613/2023 was filed on 29th November 2023, Martin Chike and his 26 friends defected from PDP to APC on the 11th Day of December, 2023. Their seats in the Rivers State House of Assembly became vacant.
This appeal that was withdrawn today has nothing to do with the seats of Martin Chike Amaewhule and his 26 friends in the Rivers State House of Assembly. The members of the public should not be taken in by the misleading propaganda by Martin Chike Amaewhule and his 26 friends.
I have just been informed of yet another unpleasant news of the recent attacks on the communities of Amagu, Amaokwe, and Umunesha in Nkalaha, Ishielu Local Government Area of Ebonyi State. This brutal invasion has led to the tragic loss of at least 15 innocent lives, with many others still unaccounted for.
This atrocity is not an isolated incident but part of a disturbing pattern of violence that continues to plague our nation. The wanton destruction of lives and property is an affront to our collective humanity and a grave threat to the peace and stability we hold dear.
I extend my deepest condolences to the families of the victims and the entire Nkalaha community. Your pain is our pain, and your loss serves as a stark reminder of the urgent work required to prevent such tragedies from recurring.
I call upon our security agencies to act swiftly and decisively. The perpetrators of this barbaric act must be apprehended and brought to justice without delay. We cannot and will not tolerate impunity. The safety of our citizens is paramount, and our security forces must protect every Nigerian, regardless of location or status.
Furthermore, I urge community leaders, stakeholders, and citizens to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement agencies. We must stand united against these agents of chaos and work together to restore peace and security in our land.
May the souls of the departed rest in peace, and may we find the strength to forge a path toward a more secure and harmonious Nigeria.
PRESIDENT TINUBU ANNOUNCES LEADERSHIP OVERHAUL AT FEDERAL UNIVERSITIES
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced significant leadership changes at several federal universities, including the University of Abuja, now known as Yakubu Gowon University.
These changes are effective immediately.
At Yakubu Gowon University, President Tinubu dissolved the entire governing council and relieved Professor Aisha Sani Maikudi of her duties as Vice-Chancellor.
Senator Lanre Tejuoso, currently Pro-Chancellor of the University of Agriculture, Makurdi, has been appointed Pro-Chancellor of the Yakubu Gowon University. He will be succeeded in Makurdi by Senator Joy Emordi, now pro-chancellor of Alvan Ikoku University of Education.
To succeed Maikudi, President Tinubu appointed Professor Lar Patricia Manko as Acting Vice Chancellor at the Yakubu Gowon University for a six-month term.
She will not be eligible to apply for the substantive Vice Chancellor position when it becomes available.
In addition, President Tinubu has removed Professor Polycarp Emeka Chigbu from his position as Acting Vice-Chancellor at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), before his tenure ends on February 14.
Professor Oguejiofu T. Ujam has been appointed as his successor for six months and will not be eligible to apply for the permanent position.
The leadership changes at UNN extend to the role of Pro-Chancellor, with Gen. Ike Nwachukwu reassigned to Pro-Chancellor at the University of Uyo.
President Tinubu appointed Engineer Olubunmi Kayode Ojo as the new Pro-Chancellor of UNN. Previously, Ojo held the same position at the Federal University of Lokoja and the Federal University of Oye-Ekiti.
Professor Zubairu Tajo Abdullahi, currently the Pro-Chancellor of the University of Uyo, has been appointed to succeed Ojo at the Federal University of Lokoja.
Senator Sani Stores is the new Pro-Chancellor of Alvan Ikoku University of Education, succeeding Senator Joy Emordi. Senator Stores is a Council Member at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.
Additionally, Barrister Olugbenga Kukoyi, a current Council Member at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, has been appointed the new Pro-Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University in Awka, Anambra State.
All appointments and reassignment decisions are effective immediately.
President Tinubu emphasised that these changes reflect his administration’s commitment to revitalising Nigeria’s higher education system through dynamic leadership and accountability.
The restructuring aims to strengthen governance and academic excellence within Nigeria’s tertiary education sector.
Bayo Onanuga Special Adviser to the President (Information & Strategy) February 3, 2025
A Nigerian professor jailed on Wednesday for falsifying election results recounted his ordeal to a judge since his trial began in 2020.
Ignatius Uduk, a professor of Human Kinetics at the University of Uyo, was prosecuted by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on three charges: announcement of false election results, publication of false results and perjury during the 2019 general elections in Essien Udim State Constituency where he served the returning officer.
The judge, Bassey Nkanang, acquitted the professor for announcing false results but convicted him of publishing false results and perjury.
“This is my first offence. I am appealing to the court to give me a soft landing either by fine or state pardon,” the professor, who was brought to the court in a wheelchair, told the judge.
“At 70, I am going to prison. I was a professor in 2005, but the university forcefully retired me in 2020 because of this case,” the professor said, begging the court to pardon him.
Sentencing The professor was INEC’s collation and returning officer for Essien Udim State Constituency in the 2019 general elections, where he falsified election results to the advantage of the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Nse Ntuen, then a political ally of Godswill Akpabio, who is now the Senate president.
Mr Uduk had called Mike Igini, then INEC resident electoral commissioner (REC), to inform him that there was violence at the collation centre and that he had been chased out of the centre.
However, 24 hours later, Mr Uduk published the election results and testified before the Election Petition Tribunal, prompting INEC to file criminal charges against him.
After listening to Mr Uduk’s leniency plea, Mr Nkanang held that the prosecution counsel, Clement Onwuewunor, discharged the burden of proof that the defendant published false election results when he served as a collation/returning officer.
Citing Section 123 (4) of the 2010 Electoral Act as amended, which states that “Any person who announces or publishes an election result knowing same to be false or which is at variance with the signed certificate of return commits an offence and is liable on conviction to 36 months imprisonment,” the judge held that the prosecution had established his case against the defendant.
In the third charge of perjury, an offence punishable with 14 years imprisonment, the judge cited Section 118 of the Criminal Code Law, CAP 38, Laws of Akwa Ibom State 2000, where the offence is defined as: “Any person in any judicial proceeding or for the purpose of instituting any judicial proceeding, knowingly gives false testimony touching any matter which is material to any question then depending on that proceeding, or intended to be raised in that proceeding, is guilty of an offence which is called perjury.”
Harkening to the professor’s leniency plea, the judge reduced the prison terms to three years each for both charges and ruled that they will run concurrently beginning Wednesday, 5 February, when the judgement is given.
Addressing reporters outside the court, the prosecution and defence counsels expressed satisfaction with the judgement.
When asked if he would appeal the verdict, the defence counsel, George Ezeugwu, said he has to study the judgement before taking the next step.
These two police officers @PoliceNG were found to have committed the same infraction by failing to relinquish their positions upon retirement, one Inspector Linus Okoro was taken into custody for wrongdoing while the other Kayode Egbetokun proceeded to arrest citizens who called out his infractions. This is unfair! #RevolutionNow #EgbetokunMustGo
It is reported that Kayode Egbetokun, Nigeria's Illegal Inspector General of Police, has hurriedly left a conference in Rwanda to return to Nigeria to address concerns by police cadres regarding his continued unjust, unfair and illegal occupation of the office of the IGP beyond the expiration of his tenure in 2024, having served for 35 years and also attained the age of 60. The straightforward solution is to retire and allow others to rise through the ranks. #egbetokunmustgo #RevolutionNow
Nabs Osun monarch, Chadian, youth corps member for drug trafficking
Operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, have raided the Lagos base of a high-profile cocaine syndicate headed by a couple: Agbakoba John Mmadu, and Agbakoba Ijeoma Chinwe as well as their associate, Okoye Ifeoma Maryjane, where large consignments of the class A drug meant for export and local distribution were recovered.
The raid carried out by a special operations unit of the Agency followed months of intelligence gathering and surveillance on the syndicate notorious for packaging, distributing and trafficking of cocaine within and outside Nigeria.
The 54-year-old Agbakoba John Mmadu was arrested at Ago palace way, Okota while his wife, Agbakoba Ijeoma Chinwe, 39, and associate, Okoye Ifeoma Maryjane, 31, who doubles as their stash keeper, were nabbed at Plot 2205 Eugene Ndubisi close, Lilly Estate, Amuwo Odofin area of Lagos, all on Wednesday 3rd July 2024.
While seven parcels of cocaine with a total weight of 7.652 kilograms were recovered from Mmadu at Ago palace way, not less than one hundred and twenty-two (122) compressed pellets of the same drug weighing 2.42kg were seized from the duo of Ijeoma and Ifeoma at Lilly Estate, bringing the total seizure to 10.1 kilograms valued at over N2.1 billion in street value.
In the same vein, NDLEA operatives in Benue state on Thursday 4th July intercepted a consignment of 350 grams of cocaine at a check point along Enugu road, Otukpo. The illicit drug was concealed in an MP3 speaker sent as a waybill parcel. A swift follow up operation at Flight motor park in Otukpo led to the arrest of the owner, 25-year-old Odeh Anthony.
Meanwhile, NDLEA officers on a stop and search operation along Ngurore - Yola road in Adamawa state on Wednesday 3rd July arrested a Chadian, Yves Ahmat Gali in a commercial bus coming from Kano to Yola. The suspect was found with a loud speaker used to conceal 20 compressed blocks, and nine plastic containers of Loud, a strong strain of cannabis weighing 5.200kg.
In Kano, operatives on Wednesday 3rd July arrested a youth corps member, Yusuf Abdulrahman, 25, at Corpers Lodge, Sumaila area of the city, with 1.250kg of Loud, while in Osun state, the head of Akarabata community in Ile-Ife, Ba’ale Ige Babatunde, 50, was on Friday 5th July arrested with fresh cannabis plants that weighed 5kg. Two suspects: Monday Ali, 49, and Jimoh Alewi, 37, were arrested when NDLEA operatives raided Ikota forest in Ifedore LGA, Ondo state where a total of 42,500kg cannabis was destroyed on 17 hectares of farmland while 73.5kg of same substance was recovered for the prosecution of the suspects during a five-day operation that ended on Monday 1st July.
In Abuja, the FCT, NDLEA operatives on Saturday 6th July arrested the duo of Sanusi Mamman, 28, and Usaini Ibrahim, 20, in a vehicle along Abaji- Gwagwalada with 1,132 bottles of codeine syrup; 13, 540 pills of tramadol; 50,000 pills of diazepam and 59 pills of rophynol. The suspects claimed they were bringing the opioids from Onitsha, Anambra state.
With the same drive, Commands and formations of the Agency across the country continued their War Against Drug Abuse, WADA, sensitization activities in schools, worship centres, work places and communities among others in the past week. These include: WADA enlightenment lecture for students of Community Grammar School (Junior), Aroro, Ibadan, Oyo state; students of Candy Secondary School, Agu Awka, Anambra state; students of Community High School, Umuida, Enugu Ezike, Enugu state; students of School for Arabic and Islamic Studies, Kofar Nasarawa, Kano state and WADA sensitisation lecture organized by Zone M Zonal Command of NDLEA at Sabo motor park, Kaduna, among others.
While commending the officers and men of the Special Operations Unit, Osun, Benue, Ondo, Kano, and FCT Commands for the arrests and seizures, Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd) noted their drug supply reduction efforts balanced with WADA sensitization activities while he charged them and their compatriots across the country to maintain the tempo.
Femi Babafemi Director, Media & Advocacy NDLEA Headquarters, Abuja Sunday 7th July 2024
I warmly congratulate Prime Minister Keir Starmer on the victory of the Labour Party in the United Kingdom general election.
As a former leader of the opposition in Nigeria, I specially note the determination and courage that the Prime Minister demonstrated throughout his years in the opposition and as the leader of the Labour Party.
The party's ability to reform, mobilize, and position itself for victory after 14 years affirms the leadership qualities of Sir Starmer.
I also congratulate the citizens and the government of the United Kingdom for being an abiding model of democracy.
I look forward to deepening relations between Nigeria and the United Kingdom in mutual areas of interest and in strengthening democratic institutions, as well as in building a safer and more prosperous future for the people of both countries.
H.E. Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria
The Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, has taken another swipe at the FCT Senator, Ireti Kingibe, saying he only works with leaders who maintain strong connections with their constituents.
This is the latest jibe in the ongoing feud between the two politicians.
Speaking at the flag-off of the Kwaita-Yebu Road reconstruction in Kwali on Thursday, Wike praised former Senator Philip Aduda for his continued engagement with the community despite losing his reelection bid to Kingibe in 2023.
“I will work with those who work with the people and those who connect with their people,” wike, who didn’t directly mention Kingibe, said.
The minister’s statement follows the political brickbat that was reignited after Kingibe criticised Wike’s administration during an Arise TV interview.
The senator had expressed frustration over what she perceived as a lack of communication between the FCT Minister’s office and herself as the elected representative of the FCT.
In response, Wike had previously vowed to prevent Kingibe’s re-election in 2027, stating, “If you are very popular, 2027 come and run under Abuja, we will fail you. Do you think that what happened last time will happen again? It will not happen again. Luckily for me, I am the FCT Minister now. So that is my territory and I’m not afraid.”
Meanwhile, during the inauguration of the road construction, Wike said, “This is the eighth time I have visited FCT area councils with respect to infrastructure projects.
“I have been to the six area councils to inaugurate construction of road projects and was at Kwali to inaugurate a completed bridge. Today, I am in Kwali again, to inaugurate the reconstruction of a road project.
“This is in fulfilment of Tinubu’s promise to transform rural communities and equip them with basic infrastructure,” he said.
The minister said he had revised the project’s completion timeline from 18 months to 12 months.
Wike reiterated that the Tinubu-led administration would not neglect rural people.
Wike added that there was ongoing rehabilitation of schools, with contracts soon to be awarded for 20 more schools.
The Chairman of Kwali Area Council, Mr. Danladi Chiya, in his remarks commended Wike’s focus on rural infrastructure development, noting that the road had been in disrepair for over a decade.
“The reconstruction of the road will significantly ease the movement of people and produce in affected communities,” Chiya said.
The Senate of the University of Benin has shut down academic activities at the institution following Wednesday’s protests.
Disclosing this in a statement on Thursday, the institution’s Public Relations Officer, Benedicta Ehanire, said the shutdown does not affect the non-academic staff.
The university also ordered students to vacate their hostels immediately.
“Following the refusal of students of the University of Benin to shift grounds on their demands for twenty-four hours supply of electricity and more, considered unrealistic by the University’s Senate, the University has shut down academic activities indefinitely,” the statement read.
“Students are to vacate the hostels immediately while all the relevant units of the University are to take note and comply. However, non-teaching staff and staff on essential duties are not affected by the shutdown.”
UNIBEN students took to the streets on Wednesday, blocking the busy Benin-Ore Highway to protest weeks of power outages on their campus.
The prolonged power cut has severely impacted their preparation for the upcoming first-semester examinations which are just two weeks away.
The students are asking for a 24-hour electricity supply in the university, an agitation the management has tagged as unrealistic.
When I watched the Kenyan Senators running,I know that Saraki is physically fitted to run but I’m not sure of Senators Lawan and Akpabio. Dino can jump and Climb tree but Ben Bruce can only do Catwalk.
The Sokoto State House of Assembly has passed the Sokoto Emirate Council Amendment Bill through the first and second readings.
The amendment bill, if passed into law, will strip the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III, of powers to appoint the kingmakers and to appoint district heads without government approval, among other things.
This development comes a day after the Muslim Rights Concern raised concerns about an alleged plan by the Sokoto State Governor, Ahmed Aliyu, to depose the Sultan of Sokoto.
In a statement on Monday, MURIC’s Executive Director, Prof. Isiaq Akintola, expressed alarm over the potential move, which comes amid controversy and tension following the deposition of several monarchs in Kano State.
He stressed that the Sultan’s role is not only traditional but also religious, extending beyond Sokoto to cover all Nigerian Muslims as their spiritual head.
Governor Aliyu had previously removed 15 traditional rulers for various offences.
However, Vice President Kashim Shettima and the Peoples Democratic Party, on Monday, cautioned against an alleged plot to remove the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III, by the Sokoto State government.
The state government, however, denied any plan to dethrone the monarch, describing the allegation as false.
The state Commissioner for Information, Sambo Danchadi, explained that the law guiding the appointment of traditional rulers in the state had not been changed.
NIGERIA CUSTOMS SERVICE MOURNS THE LOSS OF DEPUTY COMPTROLLER ETOP ANDREW ESSIEN
1. It is with profound sadness and a deep sense of loss that the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) announces the passing of Deputy Comptroller Etop Andrew Essien, who served as the Deputy Comptroller in charge of Revenue in the Account Unit of the service. Deputy Comptroller Essien, who was in charge of the reconciliation of revenue for the service, passed away on the 25th of June 2024 while making presentation before the National Assembly House Committee on Public Accounts.
2. During his presentation, approximately three minutes in, Deputy Comptroller Essien requested water and showed signs of discomfort. Despite immediate efforts to assist him, he unfortunately passed away.
3. Deputy Comptroller Essien was born on the 16th of November 1967 and joined the Nigeria Customs Service on the 27th of November 1989 with over three decades of service to our nation. Hailing from Nsit-Ubium in Akwa Ibom State, he was known for his diligence and exceptional service record in the Accounts Unit. His role as the DC Revenue was pivotal in ensuring the accurate reconciliation of revenue, which he performed with utmost precision and dedication.
4. The Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi MFR, On behalf of the entire officers and men of the Nigeria Customs Service, extends heartfelt condolences to the family of Deputy Comptroller Essien. "The loss of such a dedicated and valued team member is deeply felt across the Service. We are committed to supporting and assisting his family and colleagues as they navigate this difficult period."
5. The CGC stated, "Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing and working with him. His exemplary service and unwavering commitment to duty will be remembered and cherished by the entire NCS community. The Nigeria Customs Service will forever remember Deputy Comptroller Essien for his outstanding contributions, his exemplary service, and his dedication to the nation. We honour his memory, and his legacy will continue to inspire us all."
6. Deputy Comptroller Essien is survived by his loving wife and children. May his soul rest in perfect peace.
Abdullahi Maiwada Chief Superintendent of Customs National Public Relations Officer For: Comptroller General of Customs 25 June 2024
Women from the Ipo community have blocked the entrance to the Port Harcourt airport.
As early as 7:30 am on Tuesday morning, the women from Ipo which is one of the host communities of the airport, blocked the gate at the airport roundabout, waving placards, singing, wailing, and even cooking at the gate.
Some of the inscriptions on their banner include ‘We Demand Our Citizens Rights’, ‘Ipo Women Peaceful Protest’, among others.
Channels Television gathered that the aggrieved women were trying to get government’s attention to their lack of electricity, good roads, and poor schools despite their community playing host to the airport.
As of the time of filing this report, their actions had caused a buildup of traffic as passengers could not access the airport.
This is the second time this year that the women are protesting.
It would be recalled that they protested on the 27th of March this year, but were pacified by the former Chairman of the Rivers Traditional Rulers Council, Sergeant Awuse.
Shoprite Mall has announced its intention to cease operation in one of its Abuja branches from June 30, 2024.
The branch is situated at Novare Central Mall in Wuse Zone 5.
This was contained in a circular signed by the Chief Executive Officer, Dr Folakemi Fadahunsi, on behalf of the retail supermarket and obtained by our correspondent on Monday.
A staff at the store who pleaded anonymity also confirmed the report, saying “Yes, it is true, we just heard it here too.”
The popular mall attributed its decision to a thorough evaluation of the store’s financial situation and the current business climate.
It additionally notified vendors that their services would no longer be needed at the store.
The circular read, “We regret to inform you that as of June 30, 2024, Retail Supermarkets Nigeria Limited will be closing its Wuse Store located in Novare Wuse Central Mall, Abuja. This decision has been made after a thorough evaluation of the store’s financial situation and the current business climate. We believe this is the best course of action for our organization’s long-term growth.
“Effective June 30, 2024, our company will no longer operate in Wuse, Abuja, and we will no longer require your services for the Novare Wuse Central Mall Store. Please note that all existing service contracts will also terminate for the store.”
The circular added the company would be reviewing its accounting records in the next 60 days to settle outstanding balances.
“If your services are specifically tied to the Novare Wuse Central Mall Store and if there is an outstanding balance between our companies, we will carefully review our accounting records over the next 60 days (about 2 months). We will then promptly contact you to confirm the amount owed and discuss a suitable payment schedule.
“We would like to express our gratitude for your past business. It has been a pleasure working with you and your team. If you have any questions or concerns, or if there is anything we can do to assist you during this challenging transition, please do not hesitate to reach out to us, it added.
Multiple multinationals have left Nigeria by either scaling down operations, transferring ownership or selling their stakes, the most recent being the sale of beverage company Diageo’s 58.02 per cent shareholding in Guinness Nigeria to Tolaram Group on June 11, 2024.
The exodus of multinationals from the Nigerian economy has cost the country a N94tn loss of output in five years, according to an economist and former Director of Research and Advocacy at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Nigeria, Dr Vincent Nwani.
According to the analyst, for the first year, over 10 companies shut down operations in 2020, most notably Standard Biscuits Nigeria Ltd, NASCO Fiber Product Ltd, Union Trading Company Nigeria PLC, and Deli Foods Nigeria Ltd.
In 2021, he stated that more than 20 companies exited, including Tower Aluminium Nigeria PLC, Framan Industries Ltd, Stone Industries Ltd, Mufex Nigeria Company Ltd, and Surest Foam Ltd.
He stated that in 2022, over 15 known brands left Nigeria, including Universal Rubber Company Ltd, Mother’s Pride Ventures Ltd, Errand Products Nigeria Ltd, and Gorgeous Metal Makers Ltd.
More than 10 major companies left in 2023, notably Unilever Nigeria PLC, Procter & Gamble Nigeria, GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Nigeria Ltd, ShopRite Nigeria, Sanofi-Aventis Nigeria Ltd, Equinox Nigeria, and Bolt Food & Jumia Food Nigeria.
In the first six months of this year, five listed major companies had left Nigeria, including Microsoft Nigeria, Total Energies Nigeria (affected by its divestment), PZ Cussons Nigeria PLC, Kimberly-Clerk Nigeria, and Diageo PLC.
A High Court Judge, Justice Haruna Mshelia, his wife, driver and orderly were abducted by the Boko Haram terroriste along Biu to Maiduguri road on Monday, June 24, 2024.
Justice Mshelia was traveling in his vehicle, accompanied by his driver, a security escort and his wife. As they approached a curve in the road between Burutai and Buni-gari, a group of armed men emerged from the bushes, their weapons blazing and baricade the road.
The judge's vehicle screeched to a halt, then attempted to maneuver it way to escape. in the chaos that ensued, Justice Mshelia’s vehicle was stopped by another team of insurgents, taken them hostages and later tool them to into Sambisa Forest.
Politics › Katsina Governor, Radda Involved In Car Accident, No Serious Injuries Sustained by chokekachy(op): 11:02pm On Jul 20, 2025
